Sunflower power! Hosts of Ukrainian refugees are celebrated

The mother-of-three, from Thundersley, photographs weddings, families and events as well as running a ladies meet up group (Rayleigh Brunch Club on Facebook).

Every summer she offers a mini shoot for families among the sunflowers at Writtle Sunflowers where she works with the owner, Jo Pike, who hires the field to professional photographers.

This year Kerry decided to dedicate a photoshoot to families from south Essex who have hosted Ukrainian refugees.

“I was speaking to Katie Warman, my graphic designer who’s put together lots of artwork for events and built my website, and I came up with the idea of hosting an evening for families who have Ukraine families living with them,” said Kerry.

“We created a great social media post and presented the idea to Jo Pike. She loved it and graciously gifted the use of the field with no hire fee.” 

Stunning location - the families gathered to enjoy a special day. All photos by Kerry Green

Kerry set up her beautiful vintage peacock chair for the shoot at the sunflowers and Kat, of Dried Designs in Rayleigh, created an masterpiece of faux and dried flowers to fasten to the chair.

Kerry asked the refreshment vans, which are in the field during the day, if they’d be willing to be there and Karyn who owns The Tin Canteen was delighted to offer drinks and crepes free of charge.

“I really wanted to go for it and give more to the families so I contacted Trudi, owner of Trudles Doodles Face Painter, who recently worked at events for Amy Childs and Antony Costa, and she was available! Vocalist Maddie Cole also sang for us,” said Kerry.

Smiling faces - the families enjoyed the day. All photos by Kerry Green

After asking families to contact her, Kerry had plenty of families to make the evening a success. 

“Emily Porter of Emily Jayne Photography stepped in and helped capture all the in between moments for me on the night,” she said.

“I was over the moon with the response of guests wanting to be a part of such a special evening. Everyone was so grateful. And I was humbled by their stories. They’re doing so well over here, learning a new language, getting involved in local groups like scouts, joining schools and getting jobs.”

See www.kerrygreenphotography.com, www.facebook.com/KerryGreenPhotographyPage and www.instagram.com/kerrygreenphotography.