Wedding Photography at The Ashes, Staffordshire

A Bit of Sax…..Laughter, Sunshine and a Spot of Table Tennis

If you are thirsty for a wedding photographer in Staffordshire, who bounces from good energy, real moments and the sort of weddings that don’t take themselves too seriously, then Catherine and Brad’s day at The ashes Barns will quench your thirst instantly.

Golden sunshine on a beautiful August day is a joy to have at one of Staffordshire’s most stunning barn venues.  Relaxed vibes, an abundance of laughter and a cheeky game of table tennis between the bride and groom made for a wonderful day from start to finish.

The Ashes Barns Wedding Photography

Ive been incredibly fortunate to shoot numerous weddings at The Ashes over the years and it’s certainly one that never tires on me. Nestled into the Staffordshire countryside, this beautiful venue balances rustic charm with a modern polish brilliantly. Catherine and Brad chose it for a number of reasons: large, open spaces allowing everyone room to breathe, a relaxed, laid-back feel and a venue that allows for glorious natural light, which for a photographer, is a dream.

The courtyard shines superbly in the sun and today was no exception! The sun’s rays gave guests the opportunity to mingle outside and enjoy the beauty of all of the glorious surroundings.  The team at Vintage Venue Dressing styled everything to a tee - spectacular without feeling overdone.

Bridal Prep Vibes

Catherine chose the prep room at the Ashes to get ready alongside her bridesmaids.  There was a gentle buzz in the room and smiles from everyone that remained on faces all day long. Looking absolutely stunning in her dress, I was able to capture detailed moments and the light, bright room enhanced these photos with ease. Hair was done by the very talented Lisa Moran - a gentle, low bun that stayed secure way in to the night whilst remaining naturally glamorous. Keeping in line with the natural look, Chelsea Makeup Artist ensured that glam and class remained on track.

The Ceremony

I always enjoy the pre-ceremony feel and that delicate hum of anticipation. Taking place in the West Barn, Brad brimmed with pride as Catherine made her entrance.  The look that passed between them needed no words as it lit up the room and was a beautiful moment for me to photograph. 

With a bounty of smiles and a few tears of joy thrown in too, it truly was a wonderful ceremony, never once feeling too stiff - just two people doing their own thing surrounded by friends and family who love them.

Sunshine, Drinks and …..Table Tennis?

With the sun still shining in a warm way, without being too sweaty, it was time to embrace the courtyard after the ceremony. The beautiful light of the day brought a rich life to the confetti and seized the warmth of hugs and smiles entirely.

A lot of weddings opt for garden games or a little outdoor entertainment, but Catherine and Brad had something a little different - a full on table-tennis match! Mid-reception, the two of them, whilst laughing their heads off, battled it out as their rapturous guests cheered them on. Brad went on to win - sorry Catherine - but, honestly, the photo’s from that moment are just gold - an unexpected part to a brilliant day.

The Sounds of the Day

Music was an integral part to this wedding.  As guests enjoyed drinks during the drinks reception, beautiful piano music could be heard from the talented Nick Wiley, creating the tone for a laid-back afternoon.  Into the evening, Wedding Sounds brought the tunes as the nighttime really kicked off.  Alongside this, BenjaminSax weaved his way through the crowds adding a seriously sensational sax-flair whilst people threw some moves on the dance floor. Super energy all round.

Speeches, Food and all the Good Stuff

Dressed beautifully by Vintage Venue Dressing with soft florals, rustic touches and a glow of candlelight, the reception was held in the East Barn. As guests began to tuck in to their delicious food, the light buzz of happy chatter infiltrated the air in a cosy and relaxed environment.

Speeches often are a great opportunity for photographs as they are often funny, capturing laughter and joy, a little chaotic at times, capturing a variety of emotions and most importantly, they are often heartfelt, allowing me to capture love in the smiles and eyes of those in attendance. This wedding had all of that plus a solid roasting from the best man!

 

Dance Floor Mayhem and Golden Hour

When the sun starts to dip at The Ashes, it’s a perfect opportunity to pop out for some portrait shots.  The grounds light up beautifully and with Catherine and Brad being so at ease with one another, still buzzing from the day, the photo’s were a pure joy for me to take.

Straight after, it was time to go back inside for dancing and wow, did these two know how to get the parry atmosphere started. The dance floor was absolutely bouncing with help from the fantastic Wedding Sounds on the decks and BenjaminSax doing his thing too.

Final Thoughts

Catherine and Brad’s wedding encapsulated everything you would want a summer wedding to be - chilled, joyful, a little bit different and full of real, human moments.  Two lovely people surrounded by their nearest and dearest having an absolute blast with no forced poses or over the top fuss.

As a wedding photographer in Staffordshire, days like this really are a dream.  The Ashes Barns was extraordinary as always and I’ll never forget that impromptu table-tennis game - thank you Catherine and Brad for being a pleasure to photograph.

Supplier Shoutouts

• Venue: The Ashes Barns
• Videographer: Lawal Footage
• Venue Styling & Florals: Vintage Venue Dressing
• Hair: Lisa Moran
• Makeup: Chelsea Makeup Artist
• Pianist: Nick Wiley
• DJ: Wedding Sounds
• Sax: Benjaminsax