I was so excited to be entrusted with Louise and Alex’s Hazelwood Castle wedding photography. Many years ago I had been to some wedding photography workshops at Hazelwood Castle as well as second shooting a couple of weddings, so I was familiar with The Wedding venue and its unique charm. Hazelwood Castle, steeped in history, is not just the oldest fortified building in Yorkshire, but it also boasts stunning architecture and picturesque grounds that make it a perfect backdrop for any wedding. Couples from all over the region choose this venue for its romantic ambiance and beautiful settings.
The wedding began with a sense of anticipation, with guests arriving to witness Louise and Alex’s special day.
The Wedding
In the morning, the bride and groom to be had activities planned within the grounds, creating a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved. Emily and her crew were delighted to participate in a treasure hunt, which added a playful element to the day, followed by a charming afternoon tea. Meanwhile, Alex’s group enjoyed the thrill of axe throwing and engaged in some target practice on the air rifle range, which added an adventurous twist to their morning celebrations.
Following the morning activities, Louise snuck away to her room to prepare for the wedding, ensuring that Alex wouldn’t catch a glimpse of her before the ceremony.
Bridal Prep
Louise has to be the most caring and thoughtful person I’ve met, making her bridal preparations even more special. She organised a reveal for her mum and stepdad before her dad, Peter, had the chance to see his daughter in her wedding gown. The emotions were palpable as they shared this touching moment. Maid of honour Alana had the best bridesmaid tip ever – cycling shorts with pockets under her dress!
The Wedding Ceremony
The weather was beautiful, with clear skies and sunshine, allowing Louise and Alex to have their outdoor ceremony in the enchanting garden pagoda at Hazelwood Castle. It was a picturesque spot, surrounded by blooming flowers and greenery, adding to the romantic atmosphere. The sound of birds chirping and the gentle rustle of leaves created a serene backdrop for their vows.
Following the canapés, drinks, and photographs, the wedding party moved to the Great Hall within the castle for speeches and the wedding breakfast. The Great Hall, adorned with exquisite decor, offered a majestic setting for the celebrations. Each table was beautifully set, and the warm ambiance of the room welcomed guests to relax and enjoy the festivities.
All guests were encouraged to bake something for the wedding cake bake-off, which brought an interactive and personal touch to the reception. I was invited to taste each cake, and I must say that the hummingbird cake was my favourite — it was deliciously moist and flavourful, a true highlight of the day!
Wedding Portraits
During our meetings, we talked extensively about the photographs Louise and Alex envisioned. They wanted to take advantage of the beautiful venue and were enthusiastic about golden hour pictures and evening photographs after the sunset. I always emphasise the importance of couple portrait sessions throughout the day, so we scheduled two or three 10-minute sessions away from the guests to capture intimate moments. These brief escapes allowed them to relish in their love while I captured candid, beautiful shots that encapsulated their joy.
Hazelwood castle wedding photography
Hazelwood offers a variety of backdrops for your wedding photography. The grounds are vast with woodland and open views across the countryside. Externally, the building features grand doors and staircases that are perfect for elegant photos. Internally, we have several unique rooms that lend themselves beautifully to photography, such as the black and white tiled Flemish Hall, the Victoria room with its exquisite grade II listed wallpaper, and the library, filled with rich wood tones and vintage charm.
Each corner of the venue provides a different feel, allowing couples to create a diverse portfolio of images on their wedding day. From romantic portraits in the gardens to candid shots in the lively reception, every moment can be beautifully captured to tell the story of the day.
Finally, if you’re seeking an unforgettable experience for your wedding photography, consider Hazelwood Castle. Its unique charm, beautiful surroundings, and the warm hospitality of the staff create the perfect setting for a romantic and memorable wedding. Don’t miss the opportunity to create stunning memories that will last a lifetime with Hazelwood Castle wedding photography.
You must be logged in to post a comment.