“We wanted beautiful memories captured by someone with a quirky edge. Jonny was absolutely fantastic. 90% of the time we didn’t even notice him. We are absolutely thrilled to bits. The photos are simply stunning.”

A COUNTRYSIDE WEDDING CLOSE TO HOME

Abi and Rob’s decision to get married at Hampton Manor felt like a natural one. Having recently moved to the village of Hampton-in-Arden, they were drawn to the relaxed countryside setting and the sense of familiarity that came with celebrating so close to home. With a beautiful local church and the surrounding gardens and grounds, everything they wanted for their wedding day was right on their doorstep.

Abi and Rob first met through work. Abi was working as an estate agent when Rob walked into her office looking for a property, and as they say, the rest is history. Their proposal story was just as thoughtful and memorable. On the eve of Abi’s 30th birthday, Rob planned what she thought was simply a romantic celebration in London. The evening included a stay at a beautiful hotel and a trip to see a West End musical, before ending with a private boat ride along the Thames.

As they cruised along the river, the boat driver casually pointed Abi’s attention towards the side of the river. Lit up on the wall in large letters were the words “Marry Me?” When she turned back around, Rob was already down on one knee, holding out a ring. Completely caught off guard, Abi burst into tears and, of course, said yes.

That sense of surprise, joy and genuine emotion carried through into their wedding day, a relaxed countryside celebration focused on spending time with the people who mattered most, surrounded by familiar places and natural surroundings.

If you’re thinking of getting married at Hampton Manor you can see my full Hampton Manor wedding guide here

WEDDING DETAILS THAT MADE THE DAY PERSONAL

Abi wanted her wedding to feel timeless and elegant, with a strong sense of glamour running through the day. Rose gold set the tone for the colour palette, while the overall atmosphere stayed relaxed, fun and welcoming. Above everything else, it was important that guests felt comfortable and enjoyed the celebration just as much as the couple did.

Some of Abi’s favourite details from the day included:

1. Meaningful ceremony music
During the signing of the register, a female soloist accompanied by the church choir performed Tale As Old As Time from Beauty and the Beast. It was Abi’s all-time favourite song and a moment that really stood out. Many guests commented on how special it felt, and for most, it was the first time they’d ever heard a Disney song during a wedding ceremony.

2. A surprise first dance
Neither Abi nor Rob would describe themselves as confident dancers, so they decided to take a few lessons at a local dance school before the wedding. Learning some simple foxtrot and salsa moves helped them feel more prepared, and meant the first dance was anything but awkward. Although nerves kicked in on the night, the routine came together and completely surprised their guests.

3. Thoughtful, personal favours
Wedding favours were all created with the help of friends. Female guests received scented candles with personalised labels, while the men were given ivory boxes filled with sweets. For the toast, every guest had a personalised champagne flute, a detail that went down incredibly well.

4. Comfort for the evening
To keep everyone comfortable into the evening, Abi supplied toiletry baskets in both restrooms and flip flops for the reception. By the end of the night, most had disappeared, clear proof they were a hit, with even a few of the men joining in.

SOPHIA TOLLI DESIGNER WEDDING DRESS

Abi knew exactly what she wanted, it just took a little time to find it. While browsing wedding dresses online, the same gown kept catching her eye in Google image searches. Later, while flipping through a wedding magazine, she noticed an advert for a bridal boutique in Solihull called Lisa Rose Bridal. Curious, she checked out their website on her phone, only to find the very same dress featured on their homepage.

An appointment was booked, the dress was tried on, and that was that. Abi said yes to the dress almost instantly. Designed by Sophia Tolli, it felt like one of those moments where everything simply clicked. As they say, when you know, you know.

Rob hired his suit from David Atkinson in Knowle, choosing a classic look to complement the overall feel of the day. Shoes were an easy decision, both Abi and Rob wore Jimmy Choo. After all, you have to say “I do” in Choo. The bridesmaids also found their dresses at Lisa Rose Bridal, paired with shoes from ASOS to keep things comfortable and stylish throughout the day.

ADVICE FOR THOSE PLANNING A WEDDING

I would say don’t panic whilst planning. Everything will just happen on the day. I had a wedding planner at my venue who upon prior instructions took care of everything on the day. We were given the advice to take a moment to breathe on the day and take in what is happening around you. Take 10 minutes with your new husband, away from your guests. The day really does fly by. Another thing I would advise is make sure you get a good photographer, like Jonny, because you will forget so much. Also there will be so much that you didn’t even see. The photos are a forever reminder of one of the most amazing days of your life. Rob says his advice is just let the bride do it all and it will work out perfectly fine!

Seriously though, we would say that one of the most important aspects of a wedding is the evening entertainment as this is the final memory your guests will have of your wedding. Our band were absolutely phenomenal and they really bought the house down. The dance floor was full and even the vicar had a boogey! It was a great atmosphere. No one likes it when guests sit bored at tables, clock watching, while the dance floor sits empty. Cringe.

SHOUT OUT TO THE VENUE SUPPLIERS

Make up artists: Ruth Hancox | Florists: Ava Event Stylin | Rings: Sonnys Jewellery in the Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham | Cake: Cotton and Crumbs | Catering Company: Hampton Manor | Entertainment: We Light It Up – lead singer Adam Chandler | Cars/Transport: Alpha Drive Supercar Hire in Walsall

LOOKING FOR A HAMPTON MANOR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?

Want a trusted wedding photographer? Then please get in touch, I’d love to hear more about you and your wedding day plans.