A Historic Manchester Wedding Venue

A Halle St Peters wedding is perfect for couples who want character and a big celebration. Originally built in the 19th century as a church school, the building has since been beautifully restored into an event space.

The hall itself is incredibly impressive. High ceilings, exposed brick, and beautiful architectural details make it feel grand. It’s a fantastic option for larger weddings, with plenty of room for dining and a lively evening party.

A Musical and Joyful Celebration

If you love music, this venue is especially fitting! Mel & Al’s Halle St Peters wedding was full of music from start to finish. As Mel walked down the aisle, her brother had arranged a surprise choir. It was completely magical and such an emotional moment for everyone in the room.

In the evening, the party stepped up a gear. Al & Mel performed on stage for their guests to kick off the party, which felt so personal and fun. The hall lends itself perfectly to live music, and the sound fills the space beautifully.

Cutting Room Square and Summer Vibes

One of the best things about a Halle St Peters wedding is the location. The venue sits on Cutting Room Square in Ancoats, which has an amazing atmosphere, especially in the summer!

Mel & Al made the most of this by hosting their drinks reception at Seven Brothers Brewery just across the square. Guests could sit outside in the sun with a pint, soaking up the relaxed vibe before heading back inside for the evening celebrations. It felt social, easy-going, and very Manchester.

If you’re planning a big, music-filled celebration in a characterful city-centre setting, a Halle St Peters wedding is a brilliant choice.

A few words from Mel & Al:

How did you two meet?

We met at my best friend Ellie’s 23rd birthday. Al had gone to school with Ellie, and I’d met her at uni. We were at her parents’ house in Sheffield when she shouted up the garden, “Mel, get the pizzas out of the oven.” Al swears he heard, “Al, get the pizzas out of the oven,” and we both ended up in the kitchen together. My brain completely short-circuited and I started cutting the pizza into squares, which is something I’ve never done before or since.

Describe the proposal

It was beautiful. Al planned a hike for us and our dog, Beans, in the Peaks just before Christmas. By some miracle, it didn’t rain, and we barely saw anyone else the whole way round. He waited until near the end, then got down on one knee and said, “I was waiting for a bridleway to ask you to be my bride.” It did confuse the dog seeing Al on one knee, so he had to throw her a chew to stop her barking!

What is special about your venue?

We lived together in Ancoats for three years, right across the square from Halle St Peters. We felt like such a part of the community there. We’d get a pint at Seven Brothers, go for pizza at Rudy’s, and always bump into someone we knew. We moved out of town three years ago and now live in Chorlton, but when we went back to see the Halle on Cutting Room Square, it felt like coming home.

Any details of note about your big day?

The whole wedding is inspired by the 70s, and we’ve included quite a few little “Easter eggs” throughout the day. My brother is singing me down the aisle with a four-part male choir he’s put together, which is a surprise until after the wedding. We’re hosting the drinks reception at Seven Brothers, a place we used to visit so often that people thought we worked there. Apart from the streamers, we’ve DIY all the decorations, flowers, and signage. Al has even made spoof movie posters to display on the digital screen outside the Halle. For the evening entertainment, we’re doing banda-oke. Al and I are kicking things off with “I Believe in a Thing Called Love,” with me on vocals and Al on guitar. It’s also the song we’ll walk back up the aisle to after the ceremony.

Venue: Halle St Peters

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A Lord of the Rings Wedding Inspired by Middle-earth

As a huge Lord of the Rings fan, photographing this Lord of the Rings wedding was an absolute dream. From the moment I arrived, it felt like stepping straight into Middle-earth, with so much care and creativity poured into every detail.

East Keswick Village Hall as Hobbiton

East Keswick Village Hall was the perfect venue for Chloe & Dennis’ wedding. With its outdoor ceremony space and village setting, it genuinely felt like being in Hobbiton. The space lent itself beautifully to their theme and gave them the freedom to completely transform it into their own version of Middle-earth.

DIY Lord of the Rings Wedding Details

Chloe & Dennis put so much love into their DIY décor, and it showed. From hand-painted signage to carefully crafted floral arrangements, every detail tied back to their Lord of the Rings wedding theme and looked incredible. The effort they put in, alongside the creativity of their guests, made the whole day feel immersive and magical.

Arwen-Inspired Bridal Style and Incredible Outfits

Chloe’s dress and accessories were very Arwen-coded, elegant and ethereal while still feeling completely her. I was also obsessed with the effort the guests made with their outfits, as well as the celebrant fully committing to the theme dressed as Gandalf. It was one of those weddings where everyone truly leaned in, and it made the atmosphere unforgettable.

A Few Words from Chloe & Dennis

How did you two meet?

In January 2017, we both started the Kent Police training programme. We attended a conference meeting about the Police Federation, and Dennis was already sat by himself at the front of the lecture theatre. I walked in with my class and decided to sit next to someone I didn’t know rather than sitting with them. Dennis looked very surprised when I sat down next to him and started chatting. I was quite chatty, and Dennis was much quieter to begin with. We started talking more and getting to know each other better. Dennis even created a study group for an exam to get my attention and asked for my number so we could organise a study session together.

Describe the proposal!

Dennis proposed on Christmas Day 2021 at home with the kids. He had secretly had a bespoke ring made and placed it inside a red, heart-shaped glass bauble. He hung the bauble on the Christmas tree on Christmas Eve. Once the kids had finished opening their presents the next morning, Dennis asked if I’d noticed the new decoration. I hadn’t, so he pointed it out. As I opened it and found the ring, Dennis got down on one knee. He told me how much I meant to him, and asked me to marry him.

What is special about your venue?

The venue has a beautiful outdoor space for our ceremony and allowed us to personalise it for our Lord of the Rings / Hobbit theme. It also has a stage for the band, which was really important to us.

Any details of note about your Lord of the Rings wedding?

Our wedding is fully Lord of the Rings / Hobbit themed. I made all of the floral arrangements myself, while Dennis hand-painted and created all of the signage to fit the theme.

The band, The Airwaves, are learning our first dance song – Impossible by Nothing But Thieves – and will be playing it live. Our celebrant will also be dressed as Gandalf the Grey, which we’re very excited about.

Venue: East Keswick Village Hall

Chloe’s outfit details: Joana Bridal Boutique

Hair : Beauty in Bloom

Makeup : Ellie Fenwick

Catering: Acorn Hog Roast

Celebrant: https://www.nigelbouldcelebrant.co.uk/

If you’re planning a Lord of the Rings wedding or dreaming up a celebration that leans into fantasy, creativity, and storytelling, I’d love to hear all about it!

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Fairfield Social Club Manchester Wedding

If you’re looking for an alternative wedding venue in the city, Fairfield Social Club Manchester is an absolute dream. Tucked away just off the city centre, it has that rare combination of feeling central while still being slightly hidden. It’s perfect for couples who want a relaxed, laid-back celebration without leaving Manchester.

A Relaxed, DIY Wedding Venue in Manchester

One of the things I love most about a Fairfield Social Club Manchester wedding is the atmosphere. The venue has a very relaxed, DIY feel, which gives couples so much freedom to make the space their own. It’s ideal for weddings that prioritise personality and a great party over anything too formal or traditional.

Bold Style and Flash Photography

Gemma was such a cool bride! I was completely obsessed with her bridal look, especially the cowboy hat, which set the tone for the whole day. The styling was bold and playful, with lots of leopard print. To match the energy of the day, I leaned heavily into direct flash photography, which worked perfectly with the venue and the overall vibe of the wedding.

A Personal Ceremony with Wit & Wonder

It was also brilliant to work alongside celebrant Connie from Wit & Wonder again. I’ve worked with Connie before, and we always have the best time together. She creates such warm, personal ceremonies that really reflect each couple. This one was no exception! The ceremony felt meaningful, relaxed, and full of love.

An Unforgettable Party at Fairfield Social Club Manchester

The evening party was such a vibe. Guests fully embraced the brief, changing into funky party outfits from The Sequin Siren. The energy in the room was incredible! From start to finish, this Fairfield Social Club Manchester wedding felt like a true celebration of individuality.

A Few Words from Gemma & Joe

How did you two meet?

On Hinge. A modern classic love story.

Describe the proposal!

It was a November Tuesday evening, and the ring arrived ten days early. We both knew it was coming, as we had picked it together, but everything else was meant to be a surprise. The early delivery completely threw Joe, who came into the living room looking like a kid about to tell their parents they’d been sick. I immediately knew what was happening.

I asked if I should pause Sex & The City. He said yes. I asked if we should maybe get dressed into something nicer than pyjamas. He said yes. I went to make myself presentable and, when I came back, he’d lit every candle in the flat. He said something lovely that neither of us can remember, I said yes, and that was that.

We couldn’t go out to celebrate because we had a food shop arriving between 9–10pm, so Joe dashed to Co-Op and picked up their finest champagne and some very fancy wood-fired pizzas. We got back into our pyjamas and watched Peep Show together. Pretty perfect for us.

What is special about your venue, Fairfield Social Club Manchester?

It’s a really relaxed place and absolutely perfect for a party, which is exactly what we wanted for our wedding day. It also mirrors our aesthetic choices, which makes decorating much easier. Fairfield Social Club Manchester just felt like the right fit for the kind of celebration we wanted.

Any details of note about your big day?

We’ve asked our guests to focus on celebrating and to wear whatever outlandish outfits they want. We want it to feel like a true celebration of our community and friendships – less about the enterprise of marriage, and much more about the love.

Venue: Fairfield Social Club Manchester @fairfieldsocialclubmcr

Gemma’s Outfit: FB Bridal Studio

Bridesmaids Outfits: Six Stories

Hair & Makeup: Natalie Jane HMUA

Cake: Meet Cute Cakes

Flowers: Millie Buds

If you’re planning a Fairfield Social Club Manchester wedding or dreaming up an alternative celebration in the heart of the city, I’d love to hear all about it.

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Amy & Sam, The River Mill Wedding

Amy & Sam’s River Mill wedding was such a joy to photograph and marked my first visit to this beautiful venue near Derby. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that Amy & Sam’s day was going to be colourful and full of personality.

The River Mill is the sister venue to The West Mill, which sits just opposite. While The West Mill is known for larger celebrations, The River Mill is perfect for smaller, more intimate weddings that still want plenty of character and atmosphere.

A Colourful Summer Wedding in Derbyshire

Amy & Sam’s wedding felt like a summer party from start to finish. Their colour palette of pinks and oranges brought so much energy to the day and worked beautifully against the industrial backdrop of the venue.

One of my favourite moments was their confetti throw. It was such a joyful, high-energy moment. The perfect way to kick off the celebrations! Colourful, paper confetti never disappoints. Especially when you have plenty!

Personal Details and Relaxed Portraits

Sam also brought his Mini along on the day, which was brilliant for photos. It added another personal touch and made for some really fun, portraits around the venue.

With the river and surrounding cobbled streets just outside, a The River Mill offers plenty of great spots for natural, easy-going portraits without needing to go far. Everything about the day felt laid-back and unforced, which made it a joy to document.

A Few Words from Amy & Sam

How did you two meet?

We met while studying Art & Design at Derby College. We had similar friendship groups, but it wasn’t until our third year of college that we actually got together. From then on, everything just fell into place.

Describe the proposal!

After a few holidays and trips where a proposal felt like it might happen, it ended up being completely unexpected. We were on a beautiful trip to Copenhagen. Sam proposed on our first full day there!

After arriving late the night before, Sam spent the entire day walking around with the ring box hidden in the front pocket of his shorts. This was despite Amy making him pose in front of various landmarks for photos, all while he tried very hard to hide the very obvious square box.

Sam proposed in a lovely park called Ørstedsparken. After that, we hired bikes, cycled to a street food market by the river, and spent the evening celebrating. The cycle ride back was definitely memorable! Looking back at the photos now, it’s very funny wondering how Amy didn’t notice the ring box clearly protruding from Sam’s pocket all day.

What is special about your venue, The River Mill?

As we both grew up in Derbyshire, it was really important to us to get married in the county. The River Mill is a Grade I listed former cotton spinning mill from the early 1800s, and as soon as we viewed it, we knew it was the right place for us.

When we got engaged, we said we wanted to do all the official parts of the day, enjoy great food, and have a proper party all in one place. A The River Mill wedding offers exactly that. A relaxed atmosphere in a really picturesque setting.

The venue sits alongside the river and historic weir and is surrounded by brick cottages and cobbled streets. It’s perfect for photos outside as well as inside.

Any details of note about your big day?

The overall theme of our wedding is a summer party. We’re using bright colours like oranges, pinks, and reds, with ribbons, lots of disco balls, neon signs, and a fun, relaxed vibe throughout the day.

We’ve been to a few festivals together over the years and wanted to bring that festival feeling indoors through our décor. The aim is for the day to feel colourful, joyful, and full of energy from start to finish.

Venue: https://www.rivermillderby.co.uk/

Flowers: https://www.instagram.com/flowerslessordinary_ltd/

Catering: https://www.instagram.com/jenkinsons_caterers/

Band/DJ: https://www.instagram.com/theburgundys/

Wedding Stylist: https://www.instagram.com/taraknott_/

If you’re planning a The River Mill wedding or dreaming up a Derbyshire celebration filled with colour, joy, and thoughtful details, I’d love to hear about it!

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Band on the Wall Manchester Wedding

Band on the Wall Manchester is a brilliant choice for couples who love music! Located in the heart of Manchester, Band on the Wall is an iconic music venue, and it was the perfect place for Hannah & Eddie to celebrate their wedding day.

This wedding was also extra special for me personally. I’d photographed Hannah’s twin sister Olivia’s wedding a few years ago, so being invited back to document another family wedding felt incredibly meaningful.

A Wedding That Felt Comfortably Familiar

Hannah got ready at the same family home where Olivia had prepared for her wedding, and the ceremony took place at the same church too. Walking back into familiar spaces and seeing so many familiar faces made the morning feel relaxed and natural right from the start. It was genuinely lovely to catch up with everyone again!

A Music-Loving Reception at Band on the Wall

The celebration continued with a reception at Band on the Wall in Manchester. Music played a huge role in Hannah & Eddie’s wedding day, which made the venue choice especially fitting. They’ve seen countless gigs here over the years, so being able to host their wedding reception in a place filled with musical memories felt incredibly special.

Band on the Wall is the perfect wedding venue for couples who want something non-traditional, full of atmosphere, and closely tied to Manchester’s music scene.

Thoughtful Details and a DIY Touch

Hannah & Eddie’s wedding had a relaxed, DIY feel, with a strong focus on supporting local suppliers. They wanted their day to feel personal and community-led, which really came through in the details.

Somewhere along the way, they also fell into a frog theme. Even they’re not entirely sure how it started, but they fully embraced it, and it became a fun thread running throughout the day. Eddie designed everything himself, from the wedding website to the name cards, which added an extra layer of care and personality.

A Few Words from Hannah & Eddie

How did you two meet?

We met on Tinder!

Describe the proposal!

The proposal happened on a beach in North Wales, which is Hannah’s favourite place in the world.

What is special about your venue, Band on the Wall?

We both love music and have seen so many wonderful gigs at Band on the Wall. Having our wedding reception there and being able to play our favourite songs feels incredibly special to us.

Any details of note about your big day?

Our wedding is slightly DIY, with as many locally sourced suppliers as possible helping to bring everything together. Eddie has designed everything himself, and somehow we’ve ended up with a frog theme, which we’ve fully leaned into.

Venue: https://bandonthewall.org/

Hannah’s Dress: https://dottybridal.co.uk/

Percival Menswear: https://www.percivalclo.com/

Ta Dah Hair and Makeup: https://www.tadahhairandmakeup.com/

The Palms Bakery: https://www.thepalmsbakery.com/

Dizzy Brasscals: https://www.instagram.com/dizzybrasscals/

Kind words from Hannah & Eddie!:

“Maddie is an absolute photography marvel! Maddie captured my sister’s and best friend’s weddings so perfectly. She was the first person for myself and my partner to contact following our engagement. She did the same for our special day. We are in awe of all the gorgeous pictures Maddie took from home, to church and finally to our venue.

She was able to capture all of the joy of the day, from our ceremony to the big party energy at band on the wall. In addition, we can’t understate Maddie’s ability to manage the day and adapting to scheduling. Maddie made us feel so comfortable in taking our pictures, whilst still being assertive to get what she needed from a couple of awkward bods. We could not be happier with the images Maddie took, and cannot recommend her enough. Thank you so much from a grateful couple of frogs, Hannah and Eddie.”

Hannah & Eddie’s Band on the Wall Manchester wedding was a brilliant reminder of how special it is when a wedding truly reflects the people at its heart.

If you’re planning a Band on the Wall wedding or dreaming up a Manchester celebration that leans into personality, creativity, and great music, I’d love to hear about it!

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Branxholm Park Wedding in Scotland

This Branxholm Park wedding was an absolute dream to photograph, especially with its full fantasy theme. As a Baldur’s Gate and Dungeons & Dragons player, this day felt like a real pinch-me moment. From the moment I arrived, it was clear this wedding was going to be something truly special!

I was so excited to travel up to Scotland for this celebration. I often get asked if I travel for weddings, and days like this are exactly why the answer is always yes! Being able to document such a unique and personal wedding, in such an atmospheric setting, is one of my favourite parts of the job.

A Whimsical Branxholm Park Wedding Venue

Branxholm Park is one of the most whimsical wedding venues I’ve ever photographed. Tucked away in the Scottish countryside, it feels like stepping straight into a fairytale. With its imaginative details, hidden corners, and storybook architecture, it was the perfect setting for a fantasy-themed wedding.

Every part of the venue added to the magic of the day and suited Salo & Eli’s vision beautifully. A Branxholm Park wedding is ideal for couples who want something a little bit different.

A Personal Branxholm Park Wedding Ceremony

The ceremony was led by celebrant Gerri and was one of the most personal and heartfelt ceremonies I’ve witnessed. It felt deeply meaningful, full of warmth and intention, and perfectly reflected Salo & Eli as a couple.

Surrounded by loved ones who had travelled from all over to be there, including Salo’s family who came over from Spain, the ceremony felt intimate and incredibly special.

A Magical Glasshouse Wedding Reception

After the ceremony, the celebrations continued in the most incredible glasshouse at Branxholm Park. Filled with light, greenery, and flowers, it felt magical and almost otherworldly as a reception space.

As the light shifted throughout the day, the glasshouse only became more atmospheric. It was a beautiful place for guests to relax, celebrate, and enjoy the rest of the wedding day.

Personal Details at a Branxholm Park Wedding

Salo & Eli had so many thoughtful personal details woven throughout their wedding. Their invitations were illustrated by Eli, which made them even more meaningful. I absolutely loved creating their flat lay and photographing those details, knowing how much care and creativity had gone into them.

Their outfits were also perfect and felt completely true to who they are. Every choice they made reflected their personalities, their relationship, and the world they had created for their wedding day.

A Few Words from Salo & Eli

How did you two meet?

We met through Tumblr! At the time, we both liked the same video games, Fallen London and Sunless Sea. We started by making lore posts and, before long, we were writing fanfiction and drawing fan art for each other.

At first, we joked about dating. Eventually, though, I messaged Eli to ask whether we were actually joking or if we could really be together. That’s when we officially started dating.

We met in person for the first time in Madrid on June 9th, 2017, and from that moment, we knew we wanted to be together forever. We stayed long-distance until just after Christmas 2017, when I moved to Newcastle. We’ve been living together ever since.

Describe the proposal!

We’d been talking about getting married since we first met (very stereotypically gay, we know!), so we always knew marriage was on the cards. Because of that, we both decided we wanted to propose to each other.

We chose to do it during a Disneyland trip. In the end, we both proposed at Snow White’s Well at sunset on May 10th, 2022. Only later did we realise we’d accidentally wandered into an area that was closed to the public, which explained why it was completely empty. A very kind cast member waited until we’d stopped crying and laughing before letting us know.

We actually got legally married on September 20th, 2024. However, we haven’t told anyone apart from our witnesses, so everyone will be finding out at our wedding ceremony 🤭

What is special about your venue?

From the moment we saw it, Branxholm Park felt like something straight out of a fairytale. Tucked away in the countryside, it looks like a fantasy mansion and is decorated in a beautifully whimsical, imaginative way. A Branxholm Park wedding feels completely immersive, with so many magical spaces to explore.

Our wedding meal will be held in a glasshouse that’s completely filled with flowers and greenery. There’s also a hedge tunnel decorated with fairy lights that leads into the ceremony chapel. The chapel itself is covered in plants and flowers across the ceiling and is softly lit by candlelight.

Outside, there’s a firepit swing circle and a loggia — a covered outdoor social space with stone benches and statuary. The venue is surrounded by woods and countryside, which adds to the storybook atmosphere.

Inside, there’s a wooden staircase with stained glass windows and a wall-to-ceiling dollhouse featuring felted mice getting ready for a wedding (and, uh, hosting a slightly unexpected BDSM party in the attic). There’s also a small farm on site, so mini goats and geese might be around on the day, along with a Labrador and a three-legged cat.

Any details of note about your big day?

We’ve been telling friends that our wedding theme is basically “what if the Met Gala theme was fantasy or fairytale?” They’ve completely run with it, and we’re so excited to see everyone’s outfits.

We’re planning an outfit change while guests finish their meals. Eli will change into trousers, and I’ll change into a gown before we reappear for our first dance.

Our cake toppers are Sylvanian Families figures that we’ve modified to look like us, along with Sylvanian babies styled to resemble our cats. I’ll also be wearing a locket with photos of our cats inside.

We don’t have a traditional wedding party. Instead, four friends from Spain will open the bridal procession, each holding a lantern. Eli’s dad will be wearing elven-style leather armour, at least for the ceremony.

We also have a sword that we’ll be using to cut the cake, which will double as a photo prop. Sadly, Eli’s mum passed away a few years ago and can’t be with us. However, we’ll be honouring her with a small memorial in the chapel at our Branxholm Park wedding.

Venue: https://www.branxholmpark.co.uk/

Salo outfit details: https://www.instagram.com/_leflaconboutique

Eli outfit details: https://www.instagram.com/vintageprimrose_shop/

Hair & Makeup: https://www.tonisearlemua.com/

Flowers: https://www.instagram.com/undertheivyflowers/

Celebrant: https://www.celebratepeople.co.uk/our-celebrants/gerrie-douglas-scott/

If you’re planning a Branxholm Park wedding or dreaming up a celebration that leans into storytelling, fantasy, or something a little different, I’d absolutely love to hear about it! Travelling for weddings like this is always a joy, and capturing days that feel this personal is exactly why I do what I do.

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A Beautiful Autumn Didsbury House Hotel Wedding

A Didsbury House Hotel wedding is always a joy to photograph, and Katy & Jake’s autumn celebration was no exception. Set on a crisp, golden day, this boutique venue looked especially beautiful. Even better, it’s only a five-minute drive from me, which feels like a real luxury as a local Stockport wedding photographer!

Because of its size and atmosphere, Didsbury House Hotel is perfect for couples planning a small, intimate wedding. It feels elegant without being stuffy and relaxed without losing its sense of occasion. As a result, it suited Katy & Jake’s vision perfectly.

An Intimate Ceremony with Thoughtful Details

Katy & Jake chose to keep their ceremony small and meaningful. They were surrounded by their closest friends and family, which created a warm, emotional atmosphere. Everything felt unhurried and personal, which I loved.

The flowers, created by another brilliant local supplier, Blue Door Flowers, added so much character to the day. Their autumnal colour palette complemented the venue beautifully. Because of this, the rooms felt even warmer and more inviting.

Autumn Portraits in Didsbury Parsonage Gardens

Thankfully, we were blessed with wonderful autumn weather. After the ceremony, we headed just down the road to Didsbury Parsonage Gardens. It’s a peaceful spot and ideal for wedding portraits.

While Katy & Jake enjoyed a relaxed stroll, I captured natural, autumn-filled images among the changing leaves. Meanwhile, the soft seasonal light gave everything a romantic, calm feel. It was the perfect pause in the day!

A Wedding That Truly Reflected Them

One of my favourite things about this Didsbury House Hotel wedding was how personal it felt. Instead of a traditional dancefloor, Katy & Jake opted for a pub quiz and board games. As a result, guests mingled, laughed, and genuinely connected.

Since Katy & Jake met playing Dungeons & Dragons, this choice felt especially fitting. It reflected who they are and how they fell in love. Ultimately, it was a reminder that your wedding doesn’t need to follow tradition to be meaningful.

If you’re planning a Didsbury House Hotel wedding and want something intimate, relaxed, and full of personality, this venue is a beautiful choice.

A Few Words from Katy & Jake

How did you two meet?

We met playing Dungeons & Dragons at The Crosse Keys in the City of London – I was a halfling ranger, and he was a gnome wizard. At first, we played in a group as friends for just over a year. Eventually, things naturally changed and we started dating!

Describe the proposal!

The day before Jake’s 30th birthday, we were on holiday in North Wales and decided to climb Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Even though it was the middle of August, the weather was absolutely atrocious.

From halfway up the mountain, we were stuck in the middle of a cloud and were totally soaked through. At every turn, we were nearly bowled over by high winds. Meanwhile, every sheer drop seemed to plummet into a white void, which was terrifying. As a result, I was scared to death.

However, Jake encouraged me all the way to the top. When we finally reached the summit, he waited for me to stop crying from relief. Then, he got down on one knee and produced my late grandma’s engagement ring. It was safely secured in its box and wrapped in a sandwich bag so it would stay dry.

I didn’t even need to think before I said yes. That said, I had to wait until we got back to the bottom to put the ring on, because my fingers had swollen in the cold and rain.

What is special about your venue?

We chose Didsbury House Hotel because it has a lovely, cosy atmosphere. For that reason, it was exactly what we wanted for our Didsbury House Hotel wedding.

In addition, we have family, both young and old, travelling quite far for the day. Because of this, it was really important to us that everyone felt comfortable and at home during the reception.

Any details of note about your big day?

For our Didsbury House Hotel wedding, we’re foregoing a DJ and dancing. Instead, we’re opting for a pub quiz organised by our good friend Alex. In particular, it’s based on our guests’ chosen specialist subjects, which should be great fun.

Afterwards, there will be board games for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, we’re hoping to stock the bar with our own favourites. This includes beer from our two home counties, Essex and Surrey, as well as cider from Wales, where we got engaged.

Venue: https://didsburyhouse.co.uk/

Person #1 outfit details: https://honeyblossombridal.co.uk

Hair & Makeup: https://jodiemakeup.co.uk/

Flowers: https://bluedoorflowers.com

If you’re planning a Didsbury House Hotel wedding and want relaxed, honest photography that captures every genuine moment, I’d love to hear from you.

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Islington Town Hall Wedding

I had my own little adventure travelling from Manchester to London to photograph Rozie & Doug’s unique Islington Town Hall wedding. From our first video call, I instantly clicked with them. We bonded over shared nerdy interests and chatted about the whimsical “cosy cottage-core” vibes they had planned for their day.

Think Hobbiton meets a magical forest, with plenty of board games thrown in for good measure.

A Relaxed Legal Ceremony at Islington Town Hall

Their wedding was anything but traditional, which suited their personalities perfectly. It even suited their dog, Dobby! I began the day by meeting them at Islington Town Hall, where they held an intimate legal ceremony with their closest friends and family.

Afterwards, we hopped on the tube to their charming Airbnb on Columbia Road. There, I captured relaxed getting-ready photos. Then, we headed out for portraits among the quirky streets nearby, which made for a fun and laid-back start to the celebrations.

A Creative Celebration at The Arcanist’s Tavern

The celebrations continued at The Arcanist’s Tavern, an immersive board game café. Here, Rozie & Doug hosted a more personal and creative ceremony for the rest of their guests. Instead of a traditional sit-down meal and disco, they chose an interactive buffet with quizzes and games.

As a result, the whole day felt playful, welcoming, and completely their own.

This Islington Town Hall wedding was filled with creativity, fun, and plenty of nerdiness. Because of that, it was an absolute joy to photograph.

A few words from Rozie & Doug:

How did you two meet?

Through a friend, I know, a classic and unexciting story! I (Rozie) met up with a university friend for dinner, and he mentioned I would like his flatmate. Doug and I met at a house party, where he had made Han Solo frozen-in-carbonite chocolates. He was very smiley and friendly.

After that, I started spending more time with the group. We attended various themed parties and became friendly acquaintances. Eventually, I hung out with Doug more often. Then, his flatmate finally said, “I think she’s here for you!” At that point, Doug clocked that I liked him.

From then on, we were pretty much inseparable. It’s now been over ten years!

Describe the proposal!

Firstly, Doug and I love puzzles, escape rooms, immersive theatre, and quests. Because of that, we’ve spent years making treasure hunts for each other. They started small at home but quickly became more elaborate.

One year, I turned our lounge into an escape room. Another year, I designed a text hunt around London. Doug also leaves me little quests whenever he travels. All of this meant that when he created a quest for our ten-year anniversary, I didn’t immediately realise it was a proposal.

To sum it up, Doug designed a sprawling quest from our home to Crystal Palace and around the park. There were QR codes, puzzles, board games to win, and a mystery box to open. He even dressed as a wizard and frequently ran off with the dog, leaving me to solve puzzles to find him.

Eventually, Dobby revealed the key. I ended up at a bench labelled as a proposal bench, which was very fitting. Doug proposed, and the box opened to reveal a silver ring with three frogs hidden under a leaf. Later, we celebrated at Kew Gardens with the Christmas lights, something we do every year.

What is special about your venue?

It’s a board game tavern – which makes it very special to us. It was new this year, and I visited during a launch night as I review board games and London gaming venues. As soon as I saw it, I knew it could be our wedding venue.

We’ve always wanted a London wedding. Additionally, we wanted an immersive atmosphere to reflect our love of games and theatre. The space has a cosy tavern feel, fantasy-clad staff, shelves of games, and secret booths downstairs for role-playing games. There’s also a larger space for dancing and tabletop games.

Any details of note about your big day?

We’re not very traditional people. There are no bridesmaids, groomsmen, speeches, or sit-down meal. Instead, we’re having a hag do rather than hen or stag parties!

The theme is cottage-core, and we want the day to feel like a hobbit party without direct references. We’ve made many elements ourselves. I’m a trained model maker, and Doug works in layout and production editing, so crafting things together came naturally.

One key feature is a guest quest. Everyone receives a pocket passport with four challenges, each linked to one of our parents. Once completed, guests receive stamps and a prize at the end.

I also designed a wedding sigil featuring a lantern, frog, bee, and arrow. These symbols reflect us and appear throughout the day in wax seals and stamps. For décor, there will be lanterns, bunting, lights, a sprawling charcuterie buffet, and plenty of mulled drinks. Perfect for a cosy winter celebration.

Venue: https://www.sayidoislington.com/town-hall/ & https://arcaniststavern.uk/

Person #1 outfit details: https://hausdahlia.com/

Person #2 outfit details: https://www.darcyclothing.com/

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Didsbury Parsonage Wedding

It’s always a true privilege to photograph the wedding of a fellow wedding supplier. I was beyond excited when my friend Hannah, a talented wedding florist, asked me to capture her special day. Hannah and her husband Joe’s Didsbury Parsonage wedding was relaxed, joyful, and full of thoughtful details from start to finish.

Getting Ready in Manchester

The day began with Hannah getting ready at Whitworth Locke in Manchester. Not only that, the hotel offers the most incredible pink rooms, making them ideal for bridal prep photos. The morning felt calm yet full of excitement! Afterwards, we headed to the ceremony venue to continue the celebrations.

A Ceremony at Didsbury Parsonage

Hannah and Joe held their wedding ceremony at Didsbury Parsonage, a venue known for its beautiful gardens and quirky charm. From the moment guests arrived, the setting felt intimate and welcoming, which suited them perfectly.

Following the ceremony, we took photographs in the Parsonage Gardens. These gardens provided the ideal backdrop for their portraits!

Spring Florals and Thoughtful Styling

As expected from a florist of Hannah’s talent, the flowers were absolutely stunning. FROG Flowers created a gorgeous spring florals theme that brought colour and life to the day. Because of this, Didsbury Parsonage felt even more vibrant and personal.

The reception venue, Platzki on Deansgate, looked equally beautiful. With help from stylist Kate at Florence and Vera Events, the space felt warm, relaxed, and full of character.

For couples looking for a wedding that feels laid-back yet full of charm, a Didsbury Parsonage wedding is a perfect choice. It’s such a hidden gem, quietly tucked away from the busy centre of Manchester.

Didsbury Parsonage Wedding

A few words from Hannah & Joe:

How did you two meet?

We met on Tinder. At the time, we were both a bit fed up with dating apps! However, we were very pleasantly surprised when we met at the Dockyard in Media City. We hit it off straight away and stayed until closing time.

After that, everything came easily. We spent the summer of 2018 having the best time in and around Manchester.

Describe the proposal!

Firstly, Joe proposed on the Isle of Skye. To celebrate my birthday, he surprised me with a trip and booked a gorgeous little Airbnb. During the trip, he proposed while we were hiking around the Fairy Pools beneath the mountains.

It was just the two of us, surrounded by incredible scenery. Afterwards, we celebrated with corned beef and onion butties and Irn-Bru. Naturally, I quizzed him on how he’d managed to keep it a secret. It was perfect!

What is special about your venue?

When we talked about our wedding day, we wanted something intimate and relaxed. Initially, we explored venues in the North East. However, after a lot of thought, we decided to come back to Manchester.

In the end, Didsbury Parsonage was the first venue we visited, and we fell in love straight away. We loved how tucked away it feels and its old-world charm. The dark wood, green exterior, and stained glass felt very “us.”

Although we’re outdoorsy, we also love the buzz of the city. You’d never know you were only a stone’s throw from the city centre when standing in the gardens or inside the house.

Any details of note about your big day?

We don’t have a set theme. Instead, we focused on what felt natural, relaxed, and true to us. Naturally, spring played a big part, especially as we’re getting married on Easter Saturday.

As a wedding florist, I’ve been lucky to work with incredible suppliers. Because of that, being able to ask friends to help made the planning even more special.

We love food and drink. For that reason, we chose an intimate wedding breakfast at Platzki, one of our favourite Manchester restaurants. Importantly, it’s also a lovely nod to Hannah’s Polish heritage.

For the evening, we wanted a space where we could chat, dance, and properly celebrate. As soon as we saw it, Whitworth Locke felt like the perfect fit. With disco balls, great music, and all our favourite people, we can’t wait to dance the night away!

Venue: https://www.didsburyparsonagetrust.org.uk/

Person #1 outfit details: https://feathersandflorence.co.uk/

Person #2 outfit details: https://dooleyandrostron.com/

Hair : www.facebook.com/christinabarlow.hairstylist/

Makeup : https://www.oramakeup.co.uk/

Flowers: https://frogflowers.co.uk/

Styling: https://www.instagram.com/floveevents/

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Victoria Baths Wedding

A Victoria Baths wedding in Manchester is always something special. This iconic historic venue is full of character, beautiful light, and unique backdrops. Even better, it’s only around ten minutes from me, which always feels like a bonus when a venue this good is so close to home.

Victoria Baths is a truly quirky and unforgettable wedding venue. With its vintage tiles, soaring ceilings, and distinctive architecture, it’s a dream setting for creative wedding photography.

A Wedding Ceremony at Victoria Baths

Sophie & Chris chose to hold their wedding ceremony at Victoria Baths in one of the old swimming pools. It’s an iconic space and gave the whole day serious Wes Anderson vibes. The venue’s heritage charm and bold design meant there were endless opportunities for fun, colourful, and creative photographs.

After their heartfelt ceremony, we took some relaxed portraits around the building. The interiors are so striking that you don’t need to go far to find beautiful backdrops.

A Relaxed and Music-Filled Celebration

Their wedding day was laid-back and full of personality. Instead of a formal sit-down meal, Sophie & Chris opted for Mexican street food, which perfectly suited the relaxed feel of the day.

In the evening, things really came alive when Chris and his old band took to the stage. Seeing guests dancing in such a unique space was the perfect way to end the celebration.

If you’re looking for a Victoria Baths wedding photographer in Manchester, this venue offers a truly unforgettable setting for a creative and non-traditional wedding.

Wedding Ceremony at Victoria Baths Manchester

A few words from Sophie & Chris:

How did you two meet?

We met online on OkCupid in December 2014. We went on our first date in January 2015 and have been together ever since.

Describe the proposal!

We were on a cruise around the Norwegian Fjords. While standing on the balcony and taking in the scenery, Chris got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Even though we’d been together for nine years, it was still a complete surprise!

What is special about your venue?

Victoria Baths is a gorgeous heritage building. The history of the venue is really interesting. Our wedding coordinator explained that when it was built, authorities wanted to show how much they cared about residents, so beautiful buildings like Victoria Baths were created.

Some of Chris’s family learned to swim there, which makes it even more meaningful for us to get married in a place that holds memories beyond our own.

Any details of note about your big day?

There will be lots of children at our wedding, including our 18-month-old, so we wanted the day to feel very family-friendly. One of the pools will have garden games and huge rolls of paper for the kids to draw on.

Music is also a big part of our relationship. All the table names will be Manchester gig venues, along with the first band we saw there. Chris and his band will be playing at 6pm, which we can’t wait for.

Venue:  https://victoriabaths.org.uk/

Person #1 outfit details: Monsoon

Person #2 outfit details: Moss Bros

Hair : @/rlj.hair.nails

Makeup : @makeupbylaurenpoole

Flowers: https://www.diddiboxflowers.co.uk/

Band/DJ: https://weddingjam.co.uk/

A few kind words from Sophie & Chris:

“Maddie took our wedding photos at Victoria Baths in Manchester and we couldn’t be happier with the photos and the contribution she made to our day as a whole.

From first speaking with Maddie I got a great vibe and knew she’d be the perfect fit for our day. We had a prep call before the wedding and she was on hand to answer any questions we had. She gave us some great bits of advice (having literally done hundreds of weddings before!) and made us feel at ease.

On the day she was super organised and helped the day flow more smoothly. She was able to direct people and help us get the pictures we wanted, this was so invaluable and the pictures we have we will cherish forever. Thank you so so much, Maddie. You captured the day better than we could have even imagined and we’re so lucky to have found you!”

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