Oxfordshire Photographer - Darren Weston

As an Oxfordshire Photographer, it’s a nice change when I am asked to photograph other events other than weddings. This year it was a pleasure to work alongside another talented photographer, Stephanie Paterson, https://www.stephaniepatersonphotography.co.uk

This year Oxfordshires NHS ball was a special privilege to be involved with. After nearly 2 years of NHS staff working relentlessly fighting COVID, it was especially important to photograph these staff on a night where they could relax and enjoy themselves - more so as this year’s ball was a Gatsby theme.

Held at the Kings Centre in Oxford, the evening was supported by other suppliers who ensured the NHS staff had a night to remember.

Entertainment / Evening band - Revolve - https://www.revolvepartyband.com

Entertainment / The Hipcats - http://www.thehipcats.co.uk

Photography partner - https://www.stephaniepatersonphotography.co.uk

Illuminated Letters - Alanas Love - https://www.alanaslove.com

Caterers - Elegant Cuisine - https://www.elegantcuisine.com

Casino Supplier - Queen of Hearts Casinos - https://www.swanseaqueenofhearts.co.uk

Magician - Shane Sterling - https://www.shanesterlingmagic.com

Balloons - Frog Orange Headington - https://frogorangeballoons.co.uk

The attendees were made up of every aspect of the NHS - Acute medical staff from Oxford University Hospitals, Frontline staff from South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, Military First Responders, and Community First Responders to name a few.

In fancy dress, the guests commenced the evening with welcome drinks, and some of the guests opted to have their photos taken in the portrait area with Stephanie, the other photographer - those that entered the hall had a quick shot with the charleston girls in true 1920 glamorous fashion.

The evening entertainment was amazing - guests were spoilt with The Hipcats, a 1920s Jazz-themed band, and later Revolve, an equally exciting live party band.

Between the bands changing over, our NHS attendees were in for a special treat. Kissing Khandie a burlesque entertainer most definitely captured everyone's imagination (in fact no imagination was needed). She was indeed awesome.

As the evening drew to a close I reflected, and it was a real honour to be asked to capture these hard-working individuals letting their hair down and enjoying one another’s company.

Here are a few of my favorite images from the evening…