Emma and Will – Peak District Wedding Photography

Sarah and Mikey – The Ashes

Staffordshire Wedding Photography

2020 – the year that rocked the whole world and particularly the events industry. This was the last wedding I photographed in 2020 before lockdowns and ban’s on hugging and social distancing etc. What a wonderful wedding to attend as the last memory of life as normal.

Mikey is Australian and a number of Australian guests wee attending the wedding. I’ll never forget hearing them discuss the fact that New Zealand had just closed it’s borders and Oz was about to do the same. A real bizarre feeling of impending doom and luck that these guys had managed to get their wedding happening just in time. 40+ other couple of mine and hudreds of thousands UK wide weren’t so lucky

Spring Wedding Photography

Spring is such a wonderful season to photograph weddings, mainly because the weather is often crisp and fresh and we get blessed with daffodils. Such a beautiful flower to incorporate into wedding photography portraits and Staffordshire seems to grow them in abundance. Particularly at the Ashes wedding venue where they fill the banks next to the idyllic pond.

Sarah, originally from Liverpool had a great sense of humour and a wonderful manner, I had a great time capturing her bridal prep. Mikey was laid back as all Australians seem to be and his friends were a wonderful bunch to spend time with on the day.

Candid Wedding Photography

2021 is going to be a better year than 2020 but I really hope I can get up nice and close again and photograph those wonderful moments that I see at this wedding. People hugging, no masks, love in the air. That’s what my wedding photography is all about and I’ll miss it if it’s another year of restrictions. Let’s all keep fingers crossed that we can really enjoy weddings again

Aston Marina Wedding Photography

Aston Marina Wedding Photography

Covering Kendal and Gary’s wedding was a real privilege as a wedding photographer. The couple chose Aston Marina in Stone, a wonderful location to celebrate their wedding. It was a privilege to photograph a wedding at Aston Marina for the first time, Shooting there brought out the artist in me so seamlessly.

Wedding Photographer working at Aston Marina

Working as a wedding photographer in Staffordshire, presents me with happy opportunities to work with lovely couples like Kendal and Gary, in perfect locations like this one. I enjoyed recording Kendal’s story as preparations begun in the morning at Aston Marina. I really enjoy shooting bridal prep as it gives you a chance to get to know the bridal party a little better. I shot Gary’s preparations over at The Dog and Doublet Pub. It was outstanding to watch Kendal and Gary demonstrate their commitment to each other during their ceremony at Aston Marina.

Sunny Summer Weddings at Aton Marina

The reception was very warm, colourful and welcoming. All the guests were cheerful and you could feel the joyful atmosphere at the reception. I enjoyed shooting the reception. The moments shared were lovely. Summer weddings are always awe-inspiring weddings to photograph and I made sure to make the most of the venue during the portraits. The day was bright as the sun shone, which I was really pleased about, and it just meant everyone could get some fresh air on the day.

Staffordshire based Wedding Photography

All the guests took their seats after the reception, waiting for the speeches. Guests reacting as the speeches are delivered makes for exquisite storytelling photographs. It was time to begin the evening celebrations. Everyone brought the day to an end by demonstrating their best dance moves. Weddings like Kendal and Gary’s make my job as a wedding photographer a pleasure and I’m sure they will be really happy together.

Enjoy a Waterside Wedding at the Aston Marina

The docks and waterways of Aston Marina form a lovely backdrop to a wedding for those who love the water. Named “Wedding Venue of the Year 2019” by Bridebook Awards, Aston Marina’s Boat House and Gazebo will impress your guests with something different. This Wedding Venue is set on the Trent & Mersey canal just outside the town of Stone. Spread out with your family and friends on the veranda outside of the Boat House or dine in the airy, modern interior, all in view of the water.

Book the Boat House for a Truly Memorable Day

The Boat House was custom designed for weddings and receptions, and offers you one venue to contain all of the events on your big day. Feature lighting runs throughout the Boat House space, bifold doors open onto the veranda and lawn, and large windows and skylights allow natural light to stream inside. You will have exclusive use of the Boat House on your wedding day. The venue has a bridal lounge where the wedding party can prepare or freshen up, along with ensuite bathrooms, private parking, a private entrance, and a professional kitchen. Enjoy the services of the Aston Marina’s wedding coordinator who will be onsite throughout your event.

Aston Marina is licensed for civil ceremonies, both indoors and in a purpose-built outdoor space, the Garden Gazebo. Decorated to your wishes, be they for potted trees, a floral wall, balloons, or other ideas, the Gazebo is a pretty option for couples hoping for an outdoor ceremony. Simply designed white wooden chairs line the lawn outside the gazebo so all of your guests have a perfect view.

The Boat House can accommodate up to 150 guests for a seated breakfast or dinner, catered with locally sourced dishes. Dietary requirements pose no issues for the accomplished kitchen staff, who regularly work with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and allergy options. In fact, Aston Marina’s restaurant, No. 26 Bar & Dining, is a multiple award-winning venue itself. Or choose an evening BBQ to delight your guests with a relaxed and casual affair, spread across the lawn. Bands and DJs are all welcome – the venue is accustomed to working with a variety of performers. 

History of Aston Marina

Aston Marina is a truly modern facility. The marina itself was built in 2009, and the Boat House Wedding Venue opened in the autumn of 2015. The 200-berth marina is operated by Trent Valley Marina Ltd. offers amenities including showers, toilets, laundry, supplies of coal, gas & logs, as well as a small library. A trailer, servicing and maintenance, and storage area are also available. Perhaps your guests will arrive by boat!

Location of Aston Marina

Aston Marina is located between Stone and Sandon in Staffordshire, easily accessible from across the United Kingdom, just off the M6. In around one hour, one can reach Aston Marina by car from either Birmingham Airport or Manchester Airport. Driving from London takes approximately three hours. The nearest train stations are the Stone and Stafford stations. The Stafford station boasts trains to London in under two hours’ running time and is located a 15-minute drive from the Marina. The train station in Stone is less than three miles away.

Nearby Accommodation Options

There are many boutique accommodation options for your wedding party and guests close to Aston Marina. The Stone House Hotel is situated just down the road and offers a variety of rooms and suites within easy driving distance as it is only five minutes by car from the Hall. The Stone House Hotel is a traditional country house that has been refitted as a hotel with 55 rooms, all with ensuite bathrooms. The hotel includes extra amenities for your guests to enjoy, including a gym and a heated indoor pool. For an even more elegant stay, guests can stay at Hoar Cross Hall, about a 30-minute drive from Aston Marina. At the luxury hotel of Hoar Cross, guests can choose from 11 superb rooms in an English country house setting.

The charming town of Stafford is only a 15-minute drive from Aston Marina. The Vine Hotel on Salter Street in Stafford includes a restaurant and pub on the premises; in fact, the hotel is located inside the oldest pub in the town of Stafford. Your guests can enjoy this quaint setting only minutes’ walk from Stafford train station. The attractions of Stafford are also easily reachable if walking from the Vine Hotel, including the Shire Hall Gallery, Ancient High House, and Gateway Theatre. Guests on a tighter budget won’t have to sacrifice style as there is a low-cost option in Bridgewood House, also located in Stafford town. This property features 68 rooms all with ensuite bathrooms. Bridgewood House is located next to Stafford College and the Guildhall Shopping Centre.

Explore Staffordshire

Your guests can truly experience the Staffordshire countryside through a stroll, starting from the Wedding Venue itself. Aston Marina advertises a Canal and Countryside Trail that is 4.5 miles long and circles back to the marina. The approximate walking time of this idyllic trail is two hours. The path follows the canal, then wanders through wetlands and fields before a final pass through the small village of Aston-by-Stone.

Stoke-on-Trent is the largest town in Staffordshire, with a population of around 262,000 people. The town is famous for its pottery and is the ceramics capital of the UK with multiple museums and galleries still focused on the trade today. Alton Towers, the UK’s largest amusement park, is also a draw to Stoke-on-Trent. Another popular attraction in Staffordshire is the Uttoxeter Racecourse, home to 25 annual meets including the Midlands Grand National. The racecourse is about a 20-minute drive from Aston Marina.

Stafford, originally founded around 70 CE, is a picturesque town for your guests to explore before or after the wedding. Only 15 minutes from Aston Marina by car, the town is an easy day outing. Guests can visit Stafford Castle, built around 1090 by the Normans, and St. Chad’s Church, constructed in the twelfth century. The Ancient High House is a museum set in the oldest timber-framed townhouse in England. The Shire Hall Gallery, originally built as a courthouse and city offices, is now an art gallery with rotating exhibitions. Stafford was first connected to the rest of England by rail in 1837 and continues to attract visitors today.

The West Mill Wedding Photography

Wedding Photography at The West Mill

I’ve heard great things about The West Mill over the years but had yet to work there, finally last year I was booked to photograph the wedding of Kirsty and Alex there. It was a pleasure to be Kirsty and Alex’s photographer on their big day.  The West Mill is in Derby which is in the county of Derbyshire.  The place oozed with fresh inspiration for photography. Set over 4 floors in a converted mill theres character on every corner.

Stunning locations for Indoor Portraits

Being a wedding photographer in Derbyshire offers fun opportunities to work with lovely couples like Kirsty and Alex in awe-inspiring locations like this one. One of my favourite moments of the day was when I was shooting Kirsty getting ready at prep room at The West Mill. The details, the atmosphere, the smiles; bridal prep is abundant in moments. Family and friends present at the venue witnessed Kirsty and Alex exchange vows in an heartwarming ceremony.

West Mill Wedding Photographer

I took photos of Kirsty and Alex as well as the guest at the reception. There was a lot of socialising at the reception. Capturing the dynamics, moments and stories of the day is my main goal. It can be a challenge to capture photographs in a crowded space when there’s a lot of rain, but the atmosphere at the wedding was buzzing so I was able to do my thing.

The season can really have an impact on a wedding and I find Winter weddings are some of my favourite. We had a lot of rain on the day, but Kirsty and Alex did not let it affect their day, everyone carried on without any care for the weather. Picking a place like the West Mill for a winter wedding is a great idea because all your wedding photographs can be done indoors without negatively being affected.

Industrial locations for awe inspiring wedding photographs at The West Mill

Speakers made their speeches immediately after the wedding breakfast. Photographing the speeches is a challenging part of the day because it’s all about the words, so as wedding photographers we have to do our best to tell the story of the words with our pictures.

As the evening drew in, some epic tunes invited the newlyweds and their guests to rock the dance floor. It was a long time in the planning but Kirsty and Alex pulled off an awe-inspiring wedding and I won’t forget that one in a long time.

Suppliers

Jenn Edwards – https://jennedwards.com

Captain Atlantic  – http://www.captainatlantic.co.uk

Elle Flowers – https://www.facebook.com/elleflowers

Wedding Videography at The West Mill

As well as capturing the photographs for Alex and Kirsty I also captured the video. Here’s their highlight

Wed at the West Mill and Experience Riverside History

Sitting among Darley Abbey Mills on the River Derwent, the West Mill is a truly unique Wedding Venue. A Grade 1 listed property that is part of a larger World Heritage Site, the majestic West Mill offers a beautiful Wedding Venue as well as an outdoor courtyard, garden and river walkway.

Amenities and Accommodation at the West Mill

Invite your guests to step back in time in this lovingly restored mill property. Host your civil ceremony in the Cotton Quarter, which retains much of its original charm, featuring painted brick floors, exposed brick walls, a cast iron ceiling with cast iron beams, and a plethora of Georgian windows. The simplicity of the setting allows your ceremony to shine. This Wedding Venue is licensed for civil ceremonies and can accommodate up to 160 seated guests. 

You will have exclusive use of the West Mill and its grounds on your wedding day, including the Dressing Room, the Breakfast Room which seats up to 160 for a formal wedding breakfast, and the Spinning Room, an ideal location for revelry after the ceremony. Your guests can mingle amidst small tables and comfortable sofas, or they may wish to dance the night away to your live band. To cater for a grand evening, the Spinning Room features an industrial bar and a spacious dance floor. 

Work with the West Mill’s professional staff to craft the best menu for your wedding. Whether you desire tasty evening bites such as fish and chip cones or light Mediterranean antipasti and cheese boards, you will be able to design the menu of your dreams. In warmer weather, invite your guests to wander to the courtyard and enjoy views of the River Derwent as well as the Darley Park countryside. 

As an added bonus, if you so desire, your wedding party or closest family members can stay onsite in a luxurious setting. Adjacent to the West Mill is the Mill House, a newly renovated accommodation with eight en-suite bedrooms, including an elegant Honeymoon Suite. The Mill House was built in 1799 and has been carefully restored to offer stylish comforts, vintage furniture, a shared living room area, garden and breakfast buffet.

Location of the West Mill

The West Mill is a part of Darley Abbey Mills, a World Heritage Site. Darley Abbey Mills lies just north of the town of Derby in Derbyshire. The mills are easily accessible from throughout the United Kingdom, lying between the A6, A38 and A61. The nearest train station is located in Derby. Those flying in for the ceremony will be delighted that the Birmingham Airport is merely 44 miles and a 50-minute drive away. Driving from the Manchester Airport takes around one and a half hours, but guests won’t regret choosing a scenic route through the Peak District National Park. Guests driving from London can reach the West Mill in just under three hours. 

History of the West Mill

A former cotton mill, the West Mill dates to the 1800s. The industrial foundation of the building has been upgraded and complemented by modern amenities that make the venue an ideal space to celebrate both the past and future. Located in Darley Abbey in Derbyshire, the West Mill is part of a region which birthed modern industry mills through the use of waterpower. In fact, harnessing waterpower allowed the mills to continuously produce cotton, thus greatly enriching the area.

The name Darley Abbey dates from when the property was a part of an Augustinian monastery. Due to the strategic topography of Darley Abbey, which sits by the River Derwent, the site was an ideal location for water-powered mills. These mills have produced everything from  paper and leather to flint, corn and cotton. Given the industrious nature of the Midlands region, Derwent Valley Mills, of which Darley Abbey is a section, has been designated a World Heritage Site. 

Nearby Accommodation

Your guests will have a whole host of options when it comes to accommodation in the Derby area. A mere half a mile from the West Mill, the Coach House Bed & Breakfast is a unique boutique  option. The Coach House offers seven individually styled rooms in a fully renovated main house and stables. Guests can enjoy a meal in the in-house restaurant, the Troff, or unwind with a nightcap. For a comfortable stay in the countryside, only ten minutes’ drive from the West Hall, guests can choose the Kedleston Country House Hotel. This Georgian property boasts lovely views of the Derbyshire countryside and the historic Kedleston estate. Its five spacious bedrooms offer surprises such as champagne and chocolates in the room. 

Those wishing to stay on a budget will have many choices, including a Premier Inn – Cathedral Quarter and a Holiday Inn – Riverlights in the city centre. The Premier Inn offers a variety of rooms as well as breakfast in its onsite restaurant, Thyme. Parking is available in a lot across the street. The Holiday Inn is a modern hotel with a 24-hour bar and over 100 rooms. It even offers pet-friendly accommodation for guests traveling with a furry friend.

Finally, the elegant Morley Hayes is an option for travelers looking for a hotel with more facilities. Morley Hayes is also a mere ten minutes from the West Mill; however, its setting feels like a world away from the charming bustle of Derby. Morley Hayes has over 30 rooms and its own golf course as well as three restaurants: the Dovecote, Roosters and the Spike Bar. No matter where your guests choose to stay, the Derbyshire area promises to entertain them.

Explore Derbyshire

Derbyshire is a beautiful area of the UK, with many sights to entertain your guests. For a touch of history, you can recommend visits to the seventeenth century Chatsworth House or the medieval Haddon Hall. For those enjoying nature, Dovedale Nature Reserve, the scenic trail and lookout at Mam Tor or the Ladybower Reservoir should provide ample opportunities to explore the countryside. Families may enjoy the Peak District Mining Museum or Gulliver’s Kingdom, a family-themed amusement park. Derby is the largest town in Derbyshire and features many attractions of its own, including the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, the Derby Silk Mill Museum and Derby Cathedral. 

Dunwood Hall Wedding Photography – Steph & Ash

Dunwood Hall Wedding Photographer

A few weeks ago I shot the wedding of Steph and Ash. The venue they chose for their wedding was Dunwood Hall in Endon in Staffordshire. I was happy finally to photograph a wedding at Dunwood Hall, shooting there brought out the artist in me so seamlessly.

I started the day shooting Steph at her house. She had her hair and makeup finished and I shot the story as it developed. I also photographed the groom at his house. The air at Ash’s house was filled with excitement as he prepared himself for the day.

After finishing all the preparations, Steph was driven to the venue in an stylish horse and cart. It was a delight to photograph all those awesome moments at St Chad’s Church. Working as a wedding photographer in Staffordshire offers awesome opportunities to cover ceremonies like this.

I took photos of Steph and Ash as well as the guest at the reception. The reception was full of stunning energy and joyful laughter. Capturing the dynamics, moments and stories of the day is always my main goal. Summer weddings are incredible weddings to photograph and I made sure to make the most of the venue during the portraits.

The sun came out and shone all day, which really lifted the light at the venue, and helped make nice bold colourful photographs. All the guests were keen not to miss the speeches. You hear so many speeches doing this job, but they are always different.

The wedding ended on a the perfect note as the bride and groom showcased their dance moves on the dance floor. As well as having a thoroughly extraordinary day, it was just a joy to photograph Steph and Ash’s wedding and I felt buzzing by the time I left.

Entertain in Gothic Revival Style at Dunwood Hall

Ideal as an elegant Wedding Venue, Dunwood Hall is a stately country home built in Gothic Revival style. Regional Winner of the “English Wedding Awards 2017”, Dunwood Hall is perched on five acres of gorgeous grounds. This Wedding Venue will enhance the elegance of  your wedding as guests roam the garden paths and delight in the Hall’s fountains and ponds. Exquisite tiled floors, Gothic archways, and precious artwork and collectibles surround you as you celebrate your Wedding.

Amenities at Dunwood Hall

The magnificent rooms of Dunwood Hall provide a stunning backdrop to your wedding events – be it the ceremony itself or a dinner or reception. The Music Room is the perfect spot for a civil ceremony and can accommodate up to 92 guests. Bask in the glow of the Music Room’s deep yellow walls, lovely windows, chandeliers, fireplace and oil paintings. This space can also transform into a dance floor with a bar located conveniently next door.

Host your wedding breakfast in the elegant Dining Room, which seats up to 52 in a formal setting. Should you need more space, the nearby Orangery can accommodate additional guests for dining. The Dining Room’s light green walls and natural light will contribute to your special meal. With its high ceilings, skylights and wood-panelled walls, the Orangery is the perfect transition between the formality of the Dining Room and the great outdoors.

In the center of Dunwood Hall, the Hall itself is a magnificent entryway with its high ceilings, overlooking balconies, chandeliers, fireplace and ornate tiled floor. This is the perfect spot for staging your wedding photographs, to make a grand entrance or perhaps to stage as an area for welcome cocktails. Additionally, the Drawing Room provides a more intimate space to relax or for the bridal party to use to prepare.

Dunwood Hall offers a personalized experience in every way, including in dining. The knowledgeable staff will work with you to choose whatever best suits your wedding – whether it’s a breakfast, tea, BBQ or all of the above. Using locally sourced and fresh ingredients, as well as a fully stocked bar, the staff will wait on you and your guests with care. Sample menu items include Thai crispy chicken bonbons, mini Yorkshire pudding, roasted fillet of lamb, minted pea and asparagus risotto, baked sticky toffee cheesecake, and many more. Signature cocktails include the Blushing Bride and the Grinning Groom, giving both you and your guests a taste of unique beverages to enjoy.

Location of Dunwood Hall

Dunwood Hall is located near Leek, just northeast of Stoke-on-Trent off the A53 in Staffordshire. It is a mere handful of miles from the Peak District National Park and is easily accessible from across the United Kingdom, no matter how your guests will be arriving. The airport in Manchester is merely a 45-minute drive away, and reaching the Liverpool airport takes just over an hour. The Birmingham airport is approximately an hour and a half drive from the Hall, and driving from London takes a little over three hours. The nearest train station in Stoke-on-Trent is only eight miles from Dunwood Hall.

History of Dunwood Hall and its Environs

Dunwood Hall is an historical nineteenth-century home, built in 1871 by Thomas Hulme. This family home has been hosting social events for over a century and a half. The current owner’s family has held the Hall in its possession for several generations; in fact, the family still lives on the property.

Dunwood Hall is just outside Stoke-on-Trent, home to the pottery industry of England. One of the most illustrious pottery companies, Wedgewood, was established in Stoke-on-Trent. The founder, Josiah Wedgewood, was responsible for the industrialisation of the manufacturing of pottery. Stoke-on-Trent also has a deep coal mining history, with the first reported coal mining in the area dating from the thirteenth century.

Nearby Accommodation Options

There are many boutique accommodation options for your wedding party and guests in Staffordshire. The Stone House Hotel is situated on the Stafford Road in Stone and offers a variety of rooms and suites within easy driving distance as it is only 30 minutes by car from the Hall. The hotel is a traditional country house refurbished with 55 rooms, all ensuite, and includes a gym and heated indoor pool. For an even more elegant stay, guests can stay at Hoar Cross Hall where they can choose from 11 superb rooms in this luxury hotel.

Stafford is about a 40-minute drive from Dunwood Hall. In Stafford, the Vine Hotel on Salter Street includes a restaurant and pub on the premises; in fact, the hotel is located inside the oldest pub in town. Your guests can enjoy this quaint setting only minutes’ walk from Stafford Train Station. The attractions of Stafford are also easily reachable by walking, including the Shire Hall Gallery, Ancient High House, and Gateway Theatre. Guests on a tighter budget won’t have to sacrifice style as there is a low-cost option in Bridgewood House, also located in Stafford town. This property features 68 rooms all with ensuite bathrooms. It is located next to Stafford College and the Guildhall Shopping Centre.

Explore Staffordshire

Stoke-on-Trent is the largest town in Staffordshire, with a population of around 262,000 people. The town is famous for its pottery and is the ceramics capital of the UK with multiple museums and galleries still focused on the trade today. Alton Towers, the UK’s largest amusement park, is also a draw to Stoke-on-Trent. Another popular attraction in Staffordshire is the Uttoxeter Racecourse, home to 25 annual meets including the Midlands Grand National. The racecourse is about a 40-minute drive from Dunwood Hall.

Stafford, originally founded around 70 CE, is a picturesque town for your guests to explore before or after the wedding. They can visit Stafford Castle, built around 1090 by the Normans, and St. Chad’s Church, constructed in the twelfth century. The Ancient High House is a museum set in the oldest timber-framed townhouse in England. The Shire Hall Gallery, originally built as a courthouse and city offices, is now an art gallery with rotating exhibitions. Stafford was first connected to the rest of England by rail in 1837 and continues to attract visitors today.