Stuart & Charlotte’s Northamptonshire barn wedding

Stuart & Charlotte made me a very happy wedding photographer! Their wedding at Dodmoor House was the kind of laid-back, super fun, highly emotional day that I love to photograph. It was a treat and an honour to share and capture it for them.

Stuart and Charlotte wanted an atmospheric feel in their wedding photography. They dreamed of relaxed and believable photos, nothing contrived. They wanted a handful of group photos but were more interested in capturing the action and being able to relive everything when they looked at their photos in the years to come.

Georgi, my second photographer for the day, captured the boys’ preparations whilst I was with Charlotte and her bridesmaids. The highlight of the morning for me was photographing Charlotte opening her gifts from Stuart which revealed the secret honeymoon destination he had planned. There were lots of excited squeals!

The ceremony was held at St Mary & St Giles church in Stony Stratford. Charlotte went to the church school there and has known the Vicar since she was six – a lovely personal connection. Apart from the logistics of parking, I love a town centre wedding. Having something so special among the every day brings an extra buzz. The town even brought out the bunting for the occasion!

It’s often difficult for couples to get the wedding rings on. But Stuart *really* struggled with Charlotte’s ring! At first, it was funny, then really awkward; then it was really funny again! I loved his triumphant air punch when he finally put Charlotte’s ring on!

The barn reception was an easy choice for Stuart and Charlotte. They wanted a warm celebration with their closest friends and family, so the laid-back vibe and intimacy felt right to them straight away.

The speeches were made before dinner so the speakers could relax and enjoy their food. That set the tone for the rest of the day which grew ever more chilled with coffee and chats outside in the courtyard as the sun went down, an Olympic-quality bouquet toss which everyone cheered at, and a romantic first dance that made you fall even more in love with this beautiful couple.

Onto some photos…

Are you planning a barn wedding?

Make yourself at home! You might like to read why I think Dodmoor House is a brilliant choice for a wedding venue (and photography!). You can check out some other weddings I’ve shot at Dodmoor House (and steal their ideas!) on that page too. And if you like what you see, I’d love to hear from you.