As you enter the long driveway and catch your first sight of Broadoaks, you are drawn in to it’s grandeur and charm. I Recently, I had the privilege of photographing a beautiful summer wedding here, and it was a day filled with love and joy. From the preparations in the Retreat to the first dance in the evening, it was a celebration that captured the magic of the couple’s day.
The Perfect Morning at The Retreat
The day began in the luxurious Retreat -one of the luxurious bridal suites at Broadoaks, set in its own private area at the entrance to the drive. Also featuring a fabulous bathroom and hot tub outside, where the bridal party gathered to prepare for the big day. The light-filled rooms and cosy, elegant atmosphere, make wedding mornings so special here. There is a light and airy lounge, ideal for bride and guests to gather to have their hair and makeup done on the morning. Talented makeup artist and hair stylist Lucy Pearson was busy making everyone look and feel special and calming excited nerves.
Charlotte spent a great morning with her bridesmaids and there is always something exciting about the hustle and bustle of the preparations.
Bridesmaids by her side, Charlotte took her pre ceremony walk with her father, up the drive to the house itself- a lovely opportunity to capture some images of father and bride and all the anticipation and excitement before entering the ceremony room..
The ceremony took place in Broadoaks’ orangery- A bright and airy space, which I really like for photography as it is filled with natural daylight from the panoramic windows. As it is a large room, there is space to create a long aisle for the guests to take a first look at the bride.
After the ceremony, guests moved outside to the gardens. Being a summer wedding, it was great to see everyone sitting outside with their post ceremony drinks, whilst I took Charlotte and Josh off for some photographs.
There are some lovely areas in the gardens, to create pictures. The garden swing and the ornamental fountain in front of the house.
Tummies rumbling, the wedding breakfast was served after the Broadoaks team, expertly set up the Orangery, turning it into an arboreal wedding setting.
I do love to photograph the speeches, as it brings out such emotion and to capture this is heart warming.
First Dance Magic
As evening approached, the function room was transformed again, to provide a dance floor with DJ. The couple shared their first dance, and I had the privilege of photographing this intimate moment. Surrounded by twinkling fairy lights and the warm glow of the venue.
Capturing the joy and romance of the first dance was the perfect way to close out the day and the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of their new journey together.
I left everyone dancing away into the late hours.
If you’re planning a wedding at Broadoaks Country House, or any other stunning venue in the Lake District, I would love to help capture the magic of your day. From the preparations to the first dance, every moment is worth remembering.
www.Broadoakscountryhouse.co.uk
