Doxford Barns Wedding Photography | Helen & Katrina

Helen & Katrina's Doxford Barns Wedding Photography offers a fabulous insight into a day at one of Northumberland's best rustic wedding venues. Doxford Barns is right up there as one of the favourites amongst wedding photographers. This made for a beautiful setting for what was my first same sex wedding. It seems like an age ago since they booked me. With a few weeks to spare we met up to run through their plans. These two ladies are just amazing, and I loved them both instantly. We had a coffee, talked wedding talk and laughed a lot. What's not to love?

Doxford Barns Rural Barn Conversion in Northumberland

Doxford Barns is off the A1, just north of Alnwick in Northumberland. It's a truly unique award winning wedding barn experience located very near the Northumberland coast. Several tastefully renovated stone built cottages offer the wedding party relaxed and comfortable accommodation with 200 yards of The Great Barn, which is at the heart of the wedding celebrations. All of this is set within a 550 acre country estate. Think rural charm and modern elegance, merge the two and you’ve got a bespoke, rustic and charming wedding venue in Northumberland that is full of character.

Threshing Hall Wedding Ceremony

I spent some time with the girls photographing them getting ready.  We then went to The Cart Shed for pre wedding drinks and nibbles. breaking tradition slightly, Helen & Katrina then went for a quick outfit change, before heading to the eighteenth century Threshing Hall to be married. The rain came down almost immediately after the ceremony, but the girls partied on. Their family and friends were just incredible, allowing me to capture some all important family photographs in a working barn. The evening entertainment was in the capable hands of Hip Hop Hooray, an alternative wedding band with some unbelievable tracks. Thanks to these guys they had everyone up on their feet dancing and hip hopping the night away.

Your Doxford Barns Wedding Photography

If you're planning your Doxford Barns wedding photography and are still looking for a photographer for your special barn wedding then why not get in touch ?

Jesmond Dene House Wedding - Rebecca & Philip

Rebecca & Philip's Jesmond Dene House wedding took place in early summer and through light rain and shine they had the most fabulous day. The day began with Rebecca and her bridesmaids. Her parent's house was amazing to photograph in. There was an abundance of natural light in a really spacious area .

The bridesmaids were in a classic VW Campervan, and Rebecca and her dad in a classic VW Beetle. We were a little unlucky after the ceremony because the heavens opened as we were about to photograph some groups. However, we eventually got our break, and twenty minutes later the family photographs were done.

We went to the bridal suite after Rebecca and Philip had finished their meal. The room was spacious enough to photograph some really lovely indoor portraits since the rain was still threatening us outside. Philip is camera shy, but you wouldn't  know this looking at their pictures. I think even he was surprised at how painless I made this part of the day.

As we were wrapping up, the sun broke through so were able to get a couple of portraits outside. I'd like to thank their family and friends, who made their Jesmond Dene House Wedding a delight to be at and to photograph.

How I photograph a Jesmond Dene House Wedding?

I'm now in my second decade as a Northumberland wedding photographer and my approach over the years has always been the same. Being a documentary wedding photographer, my focus is always on the people first before the venue. My aim is to capture my couples and their family and friends in a natural and candid way.

I do this by using light, composition and the moment to ensure that my images tell a compelling story.If you and your partner are looking for a wedding photographer for your Jesmond Dene House Wedding then feel free to get in touch.

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Durham Masonic Hall Wedding Photos | Nadine & Philip

Nadine & Philip’s Durham Masonic Hall wedding photos highlight just how wonderful this iconic Durham wedding venue is. I'll always remember the day Nadine rang me as I was stood in a carpark in Bakewell.

The Masonic Hall in Durham was a new venue for me. I met with Nadine & Philip before their wedding day and on arrival I was really impressed. It looked like a small venue on the outside but it was deceivingly spacious on the inside. It had rooms full of plaques containing past and present masons and has a huge range of flags in different colours. The rooms were steeped in history. On her wedding day, I met Nadine at her parent's house in nearby Washington.

It turned out that Nadine's father was also a cyclist and naturally we had a good conversation all about cycling. Her family were just the loveliest of people and made me feel so welcome.  Before long it was time to head into Durham for her ceremony. The ceremony was small and intimate, in a room that looked a bit like a mini courtroom, with a very striking chequered floor.It was a lovely bright sunny day so drinks were on the lawn followed by a short walk down to the river for a few portraits.

They were possibly the most laid back people I've had the pleasure working with. Not particularly comfortable in front of camera, or so they thought. As it happens, they were so into each other, and having fun, that they made my job rather easy. We bumped into a clown, in fact randomly we bumped into about a dozen clowns, so naturally I grabbed one for a photo, as one does.

Looking for your own Durham Masonic Hall Wedding Photos?

If you're looking for a wedding photographer to document your own wedding day and you like my style of wedding photography then why not get in touch?   

Boturich Castle Wedding | Kate & James

I felt incredibly honoured to be asked to photograph Kate & James's Boturich Castle wedding on the banks of Loch Lomond. I've photographed a long line of siblings, cousins and friends of the family.  I arrive at these stunning venues and feel like one of the family.

It's great to see friends whom I've photographed in the last few years and all with their young families. I'm a lucky guy and can't stress how thankful I am to be a part of your journeys. Long may this special relationship continue.

A little about this stunning Scottish wedding venue

A Boturich Castle wedding is known as one of the best wedding venues in Scotland. When I arrived the day before to familiarise myself with the surroundings I quickly realised why. It was also a nice surprise to be greeted by a Geordie who happened to live and work there.

The castle sits loud and proud only a stone's throw away from the banks of the iconic Loch Lomond. It's a place of outstanding natural beauty and surrounded by mountains. Standing on the lawn you have the Highlands to your north west and the Trossachs to your north east.

A little on how I shoot a Boturich Castle Wedding

Being a documentary wedding photographer I shoot most of the day in an unposed and real time manner. With the exception of a handful of family formal photographs and a few portraits, I capture the day as it unfolds.

Choosing a documentary wedding photographer ensures you get to spend maximum time with your friends and family rather than fussing about photography. On the morning of their wedding I met with Kate and her bridesmaids inside the castle to capture the preparations. There was a little scare with an accident on the main road into the castle when a coach containing most of the wedding guests was diverted. Luckily, this resulted in only a minor delay.

Thankfully everyone arrived safely and in one piece and that included James, our groom. Kate and her bridesmaids looked stunning and James scrubbed well too! He enjoyed a wee swig from a hip flask with his groomsmen and that made for a lovely sequence of photographs. Thanks for having me along to your Boturich Castle Wedding. It was such a memorable day and I look forward to catching up with you guys again.

Are you looking for a Boturich Castle Wedding photographer? If you're planning your own wedding anywhere within the UK then feel free to get in touch. 

A Beautiful Ellingham Hall Wedding | Pippa & Arriel

A beautiful Ellingham Hall wedding in Northumberland

 This beautiful  Ellingham Hall wedding was one of many I've photographed here. Ellingham Hall is nestled in the heart of Northumberland. Oozing charm and character, it's one of my favourite Northumberland wedding venues in recent years. I'd met with Pippa and her mum the week leading up to her wedding where we had a coffee and ran through the itinerary of her day.

My morning started at Ellingham with Pippa and her bridesmaids and family. The weather was unfortunately cold and wet but that's April in the UK for you. Nothing was going to dampen the relaxed and very pleasant flow of the day. The church ceremony took place in St Michaels in Alnwick. The photography here is limited but after a short ceremony and drive back to Ellingham, the party started in earnest.

Speeches took place in the lounge area which was a first for me and a huge hit with the guests as it just added to the relaxed and laid back feel throughout their day. Pippa's father is a retired priest and delivered a very powerful and moving speech, being a public speaker he was a tough act to follow but Arriel and his best men performed admirably with some lovely kind words shared amongst their guests, and a few handkerchiefs as well. This was certainly a lovely Ellingham Hall wedding and the first of many in my season. Pippa and Arriel, I wish you guys a very long and happy future together.

Are you looking for a wedding photographer for your own Ellingham Hall wedding?

I hope you like the images you're about to see below. I'm a documentary wedding photographer which means with the exception of a handful of couple portraits and family formals, everything else is unposed. I much prefer working this way.  I find that when I deliver the final images to my couples, family and friends real personalities shine through.

If you'd like to enquire about my services then I’d love to hear from you. Whether you're looking for Ellingham Hall wedding photography, or wedding photography somewhere else, why not get in touch?

Hadrians Wall Wedding Photography | Becky & Adam

Becky & Adam’s Hadrians Wall wedding photography involved a trip to the world famous Sycamore Gap. When they got in touch with me, I was so happy I was free. It's not every day you get an enquiry for a wedding overlooking the world famous Sycamore Gap at Hadrian's Wall. Those who are unsure of the location need to watch Robin Hood starring Kevin Costner!

Becky & Adam live in Birmingham so I didn't actually meet Becky until a week before their wedding. I thought it'd be a good idea to meet her before her wedding. I'm so glad I did because their house is beautiful but also very isolated. I didn't want to take the chance of getting lost with a wrong turn on her actual wedding day!

A little bit about Hadrian's Wall wedding photography

The day had the usual mix of UK weather. This ranged from overcast and windy, to outbreaks of sun, torrential rain and the most stunning rainbow display I've been lucky enough to experience on any day, let alone a wedding day. I've never been one for insisting couples have fancy posed photographs but a rainbow portrait is the exception!

The service was conducted by an extremely nice vicar at their local church, followed by a bus trip back to the house where a beautifully dressed marquee awaited their guests. One of the highlights of the day was a short drive to Sycamore Gap to shoot a few frames for Becky & Adam. Becky's father Ian managed to get permission to access the land and drive us to within 200 yds of the tree.

I'm almost certain that Becky & Adam are the only couple that I'm aware of that have Hadrians Wall wedding photography by the Sycamore Gap. Speeches, food, drink and lots of dancing followed. I remember the speeches like they were yesterday as they were extremely funny! Here's a few from their day.

I want to thank Becky & Adam, and their parents, the rest of their families and guests for making me feel so welcome on the day, I thoroughly enjoyed it and it was a real pleasure from start to finish.

Are you looking for Hadrian's Wall wedding photography or any other wedding venue throughout the UK? If you like my style of wedding photography then feel free to contact me.

What happened to Sycamore Gap?

On the evening of the 28th September, our beloved Sycamore Gap tree was felled through the night. Locals were unaware of this as the high winds throughout the night caused by Storm Agnes drowned out the sound of this blatant act of vandalism.

As of April 2024, Northumbria Police are still investigating but whatever the outcome, this doesn’t take away the loss that we all are experiencing. Thankfully, the tree lives on and in the future it is thought that the tree will grow back. We live in hope. You can read more about it here

A Barn Wedding in Northumberland at High House Farm Brewery

Nicola & Jeff's barn wedding in Northumberland comes with a health warning. If you dislike hugs then this story's probably not for you! If seeing so much love in one place, brightens up your day and leaves you feeling somewhat energised, then this post is most definitely for you.

I've been lucky enough to work at High House Farm Brewery (Now known as High House Barn) on numerous occasions before, but I simply can't get enough of the place. The location, the layout, the staff, everything about High House Farm weddings checks the boxes for me.

Looking for a photographer for your own Barn wedding in Northumberland?

Nicola & Jeff's wedding didn't start in the usual format. Usually I'd photograph in some part, the bridal preps but instead I started around an hour before the ceremony to capture the guests arriving. It was an extremely hot day in early July, about as good as it gets for a barn wedding.

Meeting Jeff and his best man and seeing them together for the first time was an event in itself, talk about a tag team. They would not have looked out of place on a stage, in fact as you'll see from the images, we substituted a stage for a beer barrel at one point. The brief for the day was to  about as laid back as it gets. Minimal couple shots, a few family formals, and other than that, photograph the day as it happens.

Like most of my couple's, Nicola & Jeff weren't big on anything being staged or posed, which is music to my ears..

Are you looking for a Northumberland wedding photographer for your own High House Farm wedding? I've been a recommended photographer at High House Farm for several years now.

This brilliant barn wedding in Northumberland went flawlessly. The wedding breakfast consisted of a hog roast followed by lashings of locally made ice cream.  This was then washed down with High House Farm's own brew. I can't remember photographing so many hugs and moments involving laughter and tears of joy in all my years photographing weddings. The guests were just awesome human beings, I felt like a guest myself with a camera, just a joy to witness so many friends and family coming together.

Nicola & Jeff, you're a pair of stars. Thanks for having me there to capture your story, and for a thoroughly happy and uplifting experience. 

Discovery Museum Wedding with Kim & Karnan

Kim & Karnan's recent Discovery Museum wedding in Newcastle upon Tyne was a beauty from start to finish. The Discovery Museum was a first for me as a wedding venue. I'd only ever experienced it as a museum visitor with my wife and family. I had a really good feeling that photographing a wedding here would be special.

When I first spoke with Kim on Skype way back when she originally booked me, we got along straight away. She's a gorgeous Geordie lass, both in looks and personality. Kim lives in London with Karnan, her partner and all round nice bloke. I met with Kim and her Mum, in the days leading up to her wedding and we instantly got on great.

Her wedding was on a Saturday in the centre of Newcastle. As a result, we were contending with the traffic for a Newcastle United game and a Rugby World Cup Fanzone event. Thinking ahead, I opted to ditch my car at Kim's parents' house and hitch a ride back into town with the bridesmaids. That all done, it meant I could concentrate purely on the photography.

I couldn't have received a warmer reception when I arrived to do the bridal preps. Kim has three sisters and they're all gorgeous inside and out. Along with parents, partners and hair and make up artists, the house was a hive of activity.  The day went brilliantly, and I was blown away by how warm and friendly everyone was.

Discovery Museum wedding photos

The venue didn't disappoint. I was so impressed by the layout and the lighting in the ceremony hall was beautiful. The mix of old and new really made for an interesting day. From a wedding photographer's perspective there's a lot of creative opportunities. I think it's fair to say I'd jump at the chance of another Discovery Museum wedding.

Kim, you're just lovely in every way, inside and out. Karnan, I discovered more and more throughout the day, just what an incredible bloke you are. I was deeply touched at what you do for those veterans and I salute you sir.

Thanks for hiring me guys, it was a genuinely lovely experience meeting you and your lovely families. For those planning their own Discovery Museum wedding, feel free to get in touch to discuss your plans with me.

Brinkburn Priory Wedding Photos | Maddy & Tom

 If you're looking for Brinkburn Priory wedding photos then check out Maddy & Tom's amazing late summer wedding.

Brinkburn Priory weddings tend to be pretty epic. The setting is ideal for a relaxed and fun wedding, and the staff see to it that you're well looked after. I've been blessed with just the most amazing couples here, and Maddy & Tom were no different. The first time I met Maddy was the morning of her wedding. I also met her family and bridesmaids at a cosy holiday cottage just five minutes from Brinkburn.

Maddy was just lovely, and her friends and family equally so. Phillip Black was also there to shoot some video, and together we ducked and dived and documented our own little stories.

An observer with a documentary style of wedding photography

I've now photographed several Brinkburn Priory weddings and each have been different and brilliant at the same time. In terms of how I photograph weddings here, my number one priority is always the people. I'm a people watcher at heart so observing human interactions is something that has always interested me.

To then be able to record these interactions, and record such a variety of personalities, truly makes for the most magical of memories. This style of wedding photography is known as documentary. On this occasion, I hit unlucky with the duty priest, who chose not to allow the ceremony to be photographed. I honestly thought that occasions such as weddings were celebrated by the church.

So when a couple put a considerable amount of planning into their day, it seems an awful shame to then be told no photographs. I was allowed to capture Maddy walking down the aisle with her father, and then both Maddy & Tom as they skipped, I say again, skipped back down the aisle!! The day was a hoot. We were blessed with outdoor weather and fine weather at that. We even had a little sparkler party as my time there drew to a close.

Still not sure if you'd hire me for your Brinkburn Priory wedding photos?

If you'd like to see another beautiful wedding story then check out Elizabeth & Andy's Brinkburn Priory wedding photography. For those wishing to get in touch to discuss your own wedding photography feel free to contact me. 

Ellingham Hall Wedding Photography | Jo & Dougie

When Jo & Dougie asked me to do their Ellingham Hall wedding photography I had little idea just how much fun this wedding was going to be. I hadn't actually met Jo & Dougie until the day of their wedding though I'd spoken with Dougie on numerous occasions over the phone. From this, we'd already struck a real feeling of friendship prior to their big day.

I remember it being an unusually hot day for September, since the week leading up to their day wasn't a particularly warm one. This was my very first time at Ellingham Hall, and before it slips my mind, I want to commend Richard and his staff for a thoroughly friendly, warm and professional job done.

Ellingham Hall a stately home and a real gem of a Northumberland wedding venue. It's located a few miles off the A1 approximately 40 minutes north of Newcastle. If exclusivity and privacy are your thing, then Ellingham Hall is perfect. When I met Dougie that Saturday morning we hit it off there and then, just as we had over the phone.

Dougie's quite old fashioned. As a result of this, he's not on Facebook and prefers talking over the phone rather than emails. Personally, I found him a real breath of fresh air in a world where sadly, contact is sometimes little more than a like, a share or a comment.

Dougie, and several of his guests, are air steward/stewardesses, in fact I believe this is where he first met Jo, approximately thirty thousand feet up! You can just imagine some of the one liners during the speeches..

Ellingham Hall wedding photography & the singing waiters.

When I first went up to Jo's room to photograph her, I thought she looked like Angelina Jolie. Modestly, she thought Dougie had set me up. Dougie also sees the Angelina in her, and our mutual observations were purely coincidental. Like Dougie, Jo was a hoot to be around from the off and she instantly made my job so much easier.

I admit to crying at this wedding, to the sound of two singing waiters. Prior to the speeches I was tipped off that they would appear, but having never heard them before I was unsure as to who or what to expect. They literally brought the house down. Two guys who actually seated the guests as they entered the reception room, and had everyone completely fooled with Italian accents. The guests thought they were members of staff at Ellingham, until one burst into song.

After that, the penny dropped. The emotions struck up by these two were something else. The room was in uproar and guests were waving their serviette's above their heads. There was singing, laughing, screaming and tears of emotion flooding the room.

It was one of the most adrenaline fuelled moments I can ever remember being a part of at a wedding. At the end of their performance, they revealed their true identity. In broad Scottish, it turns out one was from Glasgow, the other, Aberdeen.Thank you Jo & Dougie, for inviting me along.

Are you looking for a wedding photographer for your own wedding?

I'm a Northumberland wedding photographer with a documentary style. As you'll see from the photographs I prefer natural photography and for the best part of a wedding shoot candid photographs. I find that posed and set up photographs can often look a little awkward. Lucky for me, the couples who approach me for their own wedding photography feel the same.

If you'd like to check out another wedding here then you can head over to this beautiful Ellingham Hall wedding with Pippa and Arriel.  

If you're still looking for your Ellingham Hall wedding photography, then please feel free to get in touch to check my availability.

Middleton Lodge Wedding Photography | Lucy & Jake

Lucy & Jake's Middleton Lodge wedding photography.

The day came with guns, fast cars, a smooth groom and a beautiful bride. I remember being strangely nervous since I hadn't actually met Lucy & Jake in person, only in the virtual world of Skype. The plan was to hook up with the boys shooting clays first thing in the morning. We were lucky with the weather. Being October in the UK, it was always going to be a lottery. Thankfully, we hit lucky and the guys were already hard at it when I made my way over the muddy field.

The chaps were all kitted out with wellies and gilets. As soon as I met Jake, I immediately felt at ease. A gent of a man, and clearly loving mixing with his troops, who were equally fun to be around. Whilst the lads shot it out, I ducked and dived and captured a few frames, before heading over to the main building to catch the girls getting ready.

As I approached the light came good and so I grabbed a lovely shot of the main entrance. It's been a while since I last photographed a Middleton Lodge wedding. I had no recollection of the staff, but within seconds I was reminded at just how wonderfully warm and welcoming they are. On arrival at Lucy's room, I was greeted with the biggest round of smiles and laughter you could imagine. I must have counted only minutes being in there and the bubbly was open.

Main House & Garden Marquee at Middleton Lodge

The ceremony itself took place in the local church just five minutes down the road. As I tend to do I hooked a ride with the bridesmaids and headed off to catch the rest of the day. After a beautiful service we headed back to Middleton Lodge. Jake being the true gent, chose to drive back with his wife in his old Porsche Carrera in classic red. A real beauty of a car and a fitting way to transport a very beautiful Lucy.

Upon arrival back at Middleton Lodge the wedding team had prepared a beautiful drinks reception in the main house. When everyone had gathered downstairs, Lucy & Jake made their grand entrance down the beautiful spiral staircase that is a real feature at Middleton Lodge. During the speeches, there were some emotional words from Lucy's father, followed by the some extremely funny words and exchanges from Jake and his best man. The party in the marquee afterwards was a hoot, as I expected it to be.

What a beautiful day had by all, and a most beautiful couple. Thanks for having me along guys, I wish you a long and happy future together.

Are you planning Middleton Lodge wedding photography of your own?

I do hope that you enjoy Lucy & Jake's Middleton Lodge wedding photos. You'll hopefully see that my style is very much documentary. A Documentary wedding photographer is also known as a reportage wedding photographer. They're very similar in makeup, with the aim being to photograph candid moments rather than posed. That's not to say I don't shoot semi posed photographs.

Most couples request a few portraits and I always encourage you to have a few close family formal photographs too as in my experience these photos are extremely sought after by your parents. If you like what you see, then why not get in touch? 

Marquee wedding photography in Northumberland | Kat & Dan

Kat & Dan's marquee wedding photography in Northumberland just about smashed the epic-o-meter!! This little adventure took me up to Embleton on the beautiful Northumberland coast.  It was an unusually warm day in May with a very welcoming sea breeze. The bride and groom preps took place in two holiday rentals literally next door to each other. Both were boasting the most stunning of views over to Dunstanburgh Castle.

The distance between preps, church and marquee was under five minutes on foot and that's the beauty of Embleton village. It's small but beautifully proportioned, and the ideal setting for Kat & Dan's big day. Despite the wind, we even managed a trip to the beach. The local golf club members weren't quite sure what hit them when 3 cars pulled up and a small army of dresses and suits piled out in front of them.

A short walk down to the beach and we captured some really cracking memories. Gopro cameras are quite the rage these days, 4k footage, easy peasy editing software and small enough to fit on bikes, ski poles, helmets and... A bottle of Luxardo Limoncello! I'd never witnessed a GoPro used in such a creative way, kudos to the brains behind this.

Planning your own marquee wedding photography in Northumberland?

The day was so much fun from start to finish. Kat & Dan were an amazing couple to work with. Not surprising that they have a great circle of friends and family who were equally amazingly fun to photograph and be around. For those planning their own marquee wedding photography in Northumberland or anywhere within the UK, please feel free to get in touch.

A Winter Wedding at Woodhill Hall | Jenna & Gary

This winter wedding at Woodhill Hall unsurprisingly didn't fail with the lousy weather. One thing it did fail to do however, was dampen Jenna & Gary's spirits, nor the 60 plus guests who were more than happy to party on.

Woodhall Hall, situated just outside Otterburn is one of those exclusive Northumberland wedding venues where you literally "move in" in the days leading up to your wedding. As a result, you get to party with your family and close friends for the duration of your stay, and not just your wedding day. With it's own private road in, it's set within acres of beautiful countryside, with everything you need to hold a wedding all in one place.

Family wedding at Woodhill Hall in Northumberland

Now Jenna was no ordinary bride, she's my beautiful cousin, my flesh and blood and so this was a wedding with a twist in that the bride's half of the guest list consisted of my lovely family. Despite the hideous weather the day was a huge success. Being in the room with my Uncle Ian when he saw Jenna in her dress for the first time was a tear jerker for everyone present (including me). Ian underwent major life saving surgery last year and so it made the day even more special not just for Jenna and Gary but for all of us. I got to be a guest for a few hours at the end of the night, that was a first in many years!

My approach to a winter wedding at Woodhill Hall

As always, my approach remains the same. As a documentary wedding photographer my focus first and foremost is the people. I'm a people watcher at heart so observing these little interactions all day fills me full of joy. I admit however, that I may have been a little more emotional during this wedding since it was my own family.

If you're planning Woodhill Hall wedding photography of your own and haven't yet hired a photographer then feel free to get in touch to share your plans with me. Here's how it went, love from your old cousin Phil xx

Tea Party Wedding at Hexham Winter Gardens - Laura & John

Everytime I think back to Laura & John's tea party wedding at Hexham Winter Gardens in Northumberland, it makes me smile. By Laura's own admission, she had sore cheeks the next day due to the amount of smiling she did!

John and Laura are possibly the most fun, chilled and laid back couple I've ever had the pleasure of working with. As a result, this wedding was a pure joy to be a part of from start to finish. The day began at Laura's parents' home in Ponteland. I photographed the getting ready shots before they arrived by VW Campervan at Hexham Winter Gardens.

The tea party theme is a first for me and a theme that was most fitting for Laura & John's personalities. Laura's smile was infectious and John's wit had me cracked up. Choosing not to write a speech and preferring to "wing it" on the day, he actually delivered one of the funniest and most endearing groom speeches I've heard in my career. People were laughing and crying throughout his speech, and that included me!

Tea party wedding at Hexham Winter Gardens

Part of the attraction at this Northumberland wedding venue is the secret walled gardens. It’s an area a few hundred feet square surrounded by an old red brick wall and filled with everything your mind can imagine would be in a secret garden. It’s a lovely place to capture some couple portraits for those couples who want them.

The staff at Hexham Winter Gardens are extremely friendly and always a pleasure to work with. The venue really lends itself to couples who want to create their very own diy wedding. The general atmosphere here is relaxing and laid back.

For those of you who are planning your own wedding and require a photographer then feel free to get in touch. With the exception of a few family formals and couple portraits, my style of photography is relaxed and candid. This means 98% of your day is photographed without any direction from me.

Laura & John, I wish you all the happiness in the world, thank you for having me along. 

Lartington Hall Wedding Photography | Caroline & Sam

For couples looking for Lartington Hall wedding photography, this post might be worth a look.  When you get to work with a really cool couple (Caroline & Sam) then you know you're in for a special day.

I'd met Caroline & Sam previously at their eshoot in Durham and they were a joy to work with then. Being a very active couple they've bagged more than their fair share of Munros. Recently, Sam had taken to road cycling (something I attempt once in a while!) and as it happened the day of their eshoot he happened to mention he was picking up his new bike, so the prize for the best wedding present so far this year has to go to Caroline!

Lartington Hall - A most enchanting wedding venue

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of County Durham, Lartington Hall stands as a majestic and historic wedding venue, offering a truly enchanting backdrop for couples seeking a romantic and elegant setting for their special day. Dating back to the early 17th century, this Grade II listed country house exudes charm and sophistication, making it a popular choice for those looking to host a timeless and memorable wedding celebration.

The grandeur of Lartington Hall is evident from the moment you arrive, with its stunning facade, manicured gardens, and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The interior is equally impressive, featuring elegant reception rooms, ornate decor, and luxurious accommodations that perfectly blend modern amenities with period charm.

Whether you envision an intimate ceremony in the chapel, a lavish reception in the grand hall, or a whimsical outdoor celebration in the gardens, Lartington Hall offers a variety of exquisite spaces to suit your preferences. With its versatile settings and impeccable service, this venue provides couples with the freedom to customize their wedding day to reflect their unique love story.

Looking for Lartington Hall wedding photography?

Located on the border of the County of Durham and North Yorkshire, I’m ideally located to cover weddings here. I’m a North Yorkshire wedding photographer based just outside the market town of Stokesley which is only a short drive from the venue.

If you’re looking for a photographer with a more relaxed and candid style of wedding photography then do feel free to get in touch.

Stunning wedding photos at Jesmond Dene House | Rachel & Sean

I've been so excited about sharing these stunning wedding photos at Jesmond Dene House. Rachel & Sean's wedding was all go from start to finish and it was an honour that I got to capture it. I met these guys a few months before their wedding since they had booked an eshoot with me, and from the moment I met them I knew this was going to be a very fun assignment! Rachel & Sean = Fun, bubbly and just darn good to be around.

I travelled over to Gateshead on the morning of the wedding to catch Sean and the lads getting ready before heading over to Jesmond Dene House to catch up with Rachel.  One of the things that was evident between these guys is how calm they were throughout. Nothing was a stress and from a documentary wedding photographer's point of view it was all smiles, laughter and emotion. Jesmond Dene House is a short 10 minute drive from me, and such a beautiful Newcastle wedding venue to have on my doorstep. It has the added bonus of having Jesmond Dene immediately next to it with it's stunning woodland and waterfalls.

As usual, the staff at Jesmond Dene House were great hosts, ensuring their day went without a hitch. Also, a big thank you to the chef for looking after yours truly with those wonderful freshly made sandwiches, how could I have managed without them! It's nice to take a little break whilst the guests are enjoying the wedding breakfast and it means I always remain close at hand. This is ideal if there's an impromptu speech or something that requires my attention at short notice.

Looking for a Jesmond Dene House wedding photographer?

If you think you'd like to work with me so together we can make stunning Jesmond Dene House wedding photos, or any other venue you have in mind, then feel free to get in touch.

Rachel & Sean, here's your story. Thank you for inviting me along..

A beautiful summer wedding at Eshott Hall | Katie & Ben

What started as a very wet and miserable affair, ended in a beautiful summer wedding at Eshott Hall with Katie & Ben and their family and friends. The UK weather so far this season has probably scared the living daylights out of a lot of wedding photographers. I don't get phased by weather and thankfully my clients don't seem to either. Instead, they party on and allow me to photograph it!

Eshott Hall weddings, at least for me, were non existent up until this year. Amazing how the geographics of my job differ so much. This year I'm at Eshott Hall 4 times, and I love this Northumberland wedding venue a lot. The day started with the girls getting ready. Katie remained calm throughout, and was a joy to photograph.

Ben and his friends were got ready nearby at the Stable East Cottage so I captured some of the groom prep too. The trip to the church for the groomsmen involved a short walk with umbrellas to Eshott village and the reading room. This lovely building was reopened especially to accommodate weddings for Eshott Hall.  I managed to jump in the car with the bridesmaids to get through the rain and be ready for Katie arriving shortly after.

My approach to a wedding at Eshott Hall

After a lovely intimate ceremony we left the chapel and the sun broke out and blessed us for the remainder of the day. The gardens at Eshott Hall are beautiful. Naturally, we spent a short while photographing the family in the grounds and also a few portraits with Katie & Ben.

After this we then went inside for the wedding breakfast, speeches, cake cutting and dancing. Katie and Ben are a really lovely couple. I liked them the instant I met them and I knew the day would be a special one.

I'm now in the process of designing your Queensberry Album, but for now, here's a flavour of one rather epic summer wedding at Eshott Hall ..

For those planning a wedding and currently looking for a suitable wedding photographer, feel free to get in touch.

Springkell House Wedding Photos | Faye & Euan

It was through a mutual friend of ours that Faye got in touch to invite me to take her Springkell House wedding photos. This was a mini adventure which took me cross country and north into Scotland and a stunning new first time venue for me. The most beautiful Springkell House is located just a few miles from a small village named Ecclefechan (not to be said fast whilst under the influence of alcohol). A very warm welcome awaits from James, the owner of this 300 year old house and the rest of his staff.My first meeting with Faye (apart from Skype!) was on the day of her wedding, a scenario that's becoming all the more regular in my work mainly due to the distance between me and my couples.  Spirits were high and I got to work and with a venue such as Springkell with it's Georgian features of tall ceilings and huge windows, I had an abundance of lovely light to work with. Euan is currently seeing out his basic training in the RAF, so naturally the boys in blue were there to share the day with him, along with quite a few kilts too.

Springkell House wedding photos

From the preparations in the morning we made the 4 mile journey by car to their church ceremony. Although being instructed to stay at the back and in the balcony during their ceremony, I was kindly allowed a quick opportunity to capture Faye and her father walking the aisle, and of course a nervous Euan awaiting his beautiful bride to be.They arrived back at Springkell House for their wedding breakfast, during which time I played scalextrics, yes you heard that right! I am only 42 you know.. The speeches followed and in true Scottish tradition the evening celebrations that followed were epic. Faye and Euan, the love you both share for each other I found endearing. I want to thank you for inviting me to capture Springkell House wedding photos, kudos to both of you for finding such a stunning venue. I wish you both all the very best.For those looking for their own Springkell House wedding photography then why not get in touch?

As You Like It Wedding | Lyndsey & Michael

This was my very first As You Like It wedding! The venue is about 6 miles from my doorstep and a nice change to be shooting somewhere so local to me. As you Like It, according to their website is cool, quirky and one of a kind and it certainly didn't disappoint. With lots of alternative decor and what I can only describe as "interesting lighting" it's definitely a challenge to photograph, but I think it's fair to say their wedding was an amazing day from start to finish, and not without its minor hiccups!

I already knew Lyndsey and Michael from when I photographed her sister Alicia's Hotel du Vin wedding at the Quayside in Newcastle. So when they asked me to be their photographer I was pretty honoured to be asked. It's always nice to share in another day with their family and close friends.

So, about their day.. Well I have to mention the Louboutins and for those like me who had never heard of them, they're fancy shoes apparently, that cost a small fortune! So naturally, they featured in a few of their wedding photos! Check out the Pontiac, an all American classic car, an absolute beaut of a car which again, I managed a few frames before it unfortunately broke down whilst waiting for Lyndsey (I managed a frame with the drivers head under the bonnet trying to fix it too!)

I felt for the driver, it was his pride and joy and I could see the disappointment on his face. However, being a wedding photographer who drives a white car who generally keeps it clean and tidy, I came up with a cunning plan.

I could have hugged Lyndsey when we broke the news about her wedding car breaking down, she took it on the chin and it didn't phase her one bit. So with the previously mentioned cunning plan, yours truly Mr wedding photographer swapped hats for Mr wedding chauffeur, and whisked the bridesmaids and her mum off to the venue, quickly returning to collect  Lyndsey and her Dad. #allinadayswork#noordinaryweddingphotographer So, on with the story. I loved every minute of it, just a truly fab day in the office for me, and it went a little bit like this..

Planning your own wedding?

For couples who prefer the more relaxed and candid approach to wedding photography then why not get in touch? If you'd like me to photograph your As You Like It wedding then feel free to get in touch with your date and I'll check my availability. Best wishes always, Phil

Woodhill Hall Wedding Photography - Jojo & Chris

Jojo and Chris’s Woodhill Hall Wedding Photography will definitely make you smile, and most probably have you belly laughing! I first met these two amazing humans for their pre wedding photoshoot in Bamburgh. We chatted about their plans, before heading off to shoot a few frames around the village and on the beach. Like many of my couples, the day was more about their friends and family rather than just them. The brief was music to my ears. I was told "do what you do" and capture the day as it happens. Jojo & Chris wanted a few family photographs, and a nice shot of the two of them.

The best wedding venue in Northumberland?

Since this was my first wedding at Woodhill Hall, I arrived slightly earlier than planned to do my own little recce. It's a very beautiful setting, and a very peaceful one. The beauty of Woodhill Hall is it's exclusive, meaning it's all yours! It's certainly one of the contenders for best wedding venue in Northumberland. As it happened the lads were mooching about putting the final touches on a few of the wedding details. Turns out that Jojo liked lobsters. As a result, you'll notice a fair few of them dotted around in her wedding photographs!

Woodhill Hall wedding photography with Jojo and Chris

As far as weddings go, this Woodhill Hall wedding was just awesome. I love it when two people in love decide to get married and just do it their way, because that's what they did. Writing their blog post makes me seriously happy.  Flashbacks of Jojo's infectious smile and boundless energy for dancing and Chris with his hip flask. I lost count of the amount of times he asked me to have a drink!

The later it got into the day the more the gin made him giggle like a cheeky school boy. At one point I was asked to stand next to a friend of theirs. It turns out they thought we were twins. As a result, I managed to be featured in the wedding story below! I think it's fair to say this little Woodhill Hall wedding photography adventure was a success.

I want to give a little shout out to Jojo right about now. Jojo's a very creative lady.  She wears a lot of neon, loves mushy peas, and still calls her dinner tea.  This is all according to her website. You can check it out here at Lovely Jojos to find out more..

Let's get to their wedding photography. There's a some seriously epic photographs here, so grab a coffee, some biscuits, kick off your slippers, turn the soaps off and enjoy a really amazing wedding story. If you think you'd like to hire me for your own wedding, then feel free to get in touch.

If you enjoy these images then why not check out how beautiful a winter wedding at Woodhill Hall is too? I give you Jojo & Chris..