A person holds up a smartphone to take a photo of three people standing together in formal attire at an outdoor wedding. The sun shines brightly, creating lens flare. A building with tower-like architecture is visible in the background amidst greenery. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Hayley & Ashley // Hawkstone Hall Wedding

Nestled in the hills of the rolling Shropshire countryside you will find the magnificent, Grade 1 listed, Hawkstone Hall. A mile up the drive I donned my cameras for the bridal preparations. The huge rooms accommodated my natural approach to wedding photography; the grandness of the gardens gave the ground some a few choice portraits, too… just how Hayley and Ashley wanted the day to be captured.

After the bridesmaids and bride flurried around with excitement, the groomsman tied the bow ties in ‘The Man Cave’ and dad’s tears rolled once Hayley was ready. Time for the wedding ceremony! The grandeur of The Chapel, the floor lined with petals, was a perfect backdrop for their vows before stepping outside and being doused in confetti.

Most of my day was to document the couples’ story – unobtrusively and as it happened. But I always allow for a few romantic portraits. An intimate walk for twenty minutes in the beautiful grounds and gardens was the perfect opportunity for some time away from the party. Little Ralph joined us for a few frames and then we made the most of the autumnal light and colour.

After some crazy golf it was time for the wedding breakfast in The Ballroom. The wine and the tears flowed at the speeches before the cake was cut in The Saloon. A quick creative portrait later we were in The Refectory for the evening party – confetti cannons signalling the start of the first dances and then dancing on into the night!

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