Getting Ready.
Sandburn Hall Wedding Photos. Gemma and her eight bridesmaids got ready in the gorgeous bridal space at the new hotel at Sandburn Hall, just outside York. It was the perfect space—light, airy, and full of excitement as everyone sipped prosecco and had their hair and makeup done. I started the day capturing some of Gemma’s carefully chosen details: her dress, shoes, jewellery, and a few personal touches that made the morning feel so special.
There was such a lovely atmosphere—lots of laughter, little happy tears, and the kind of relaxed energy that makes photographing mornings like this a dream. Lauren Simpkin was filming the day and was such a pleasure to work alongside. Meanwhile, Lee was downstairs getting their two gorgeous boys ready, and we captured some sweet, candid moments between the three of them before heading back up to the bridal suite.
When it was time for Gemma to get into her dress, her mum helped her with the final touches. We then took her through to the bridal room for a reveal to her bridesmaids—cue lots of gasps and emotional hugs! Then her dad came in, and that moment was just so full of pride and love.
Ceremony.
The ceremony room at Sandburn Hall is stunning, with its high, beamed ceilings and incredible floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light and overlook the golf course. It created such a calm, intimate atmosphere for Gemma and Lee’s ceremony.
The vows were heartfelt but relaxed, full of little smiles and meaningful glances. Their boys sat proudly at the front, and you could feel how important this moment was for the whole family. It was simple, genuine, and very “them”—no fuss, just love.
Reception.
After the ceremony, guests made their way downstairs for the drinks reception, which took place in the bar area and out on the sunny patio. It was a lovely mix of mingling, laughter, and a few canapés.
We headed out to the rose garden for group photos and then took Gemma and Lee for a few quiet minutes together while we captured some portraits. They were so relaxed with each other, and the backdrop was just perfect—especially with everything starting to bloom.
The barn had been completely transformed for the wedding breakfast, with beautiful details all planned by Gemma. Every table had a personal touch, and my favourite was the nod to Lee’s film hero—Arnold Schwarzenegger. The speeches were before the meal, and began with Gemma’s dad, followed by Lee and then his best men. The moment they surprised Lee with a lifesize cardboard cutout of Arnie had everyone howling—it was such a fun touch!
Party.
After dinner, we took a little time to wander around the back of the hotel with Gemma and Lee for some portraits by the lakes. The light was soft and warm—just dreamy.
Then it was time to cut the cake and head into their first dance. Halfway through, the bridesmaids let off confetti canons, which made for some amazing shots and set the tone for a packed dance floor. I stayed to capture the fun as everyone hit the floor—laughing, dancing, and celebrating what was a truly perfect day.
Suppliers:
Venue: @sandburnhallweddings
Videographer: @laurensimpkinfilms
Florist: @all.inbloomfloristry
Make up: @byhayleyjay
Hair: @hairheadz
Dress: @missstellayork
Cake: the bride!
Venue styling: @chaircoversofyorkshire @ambiencesouthyorkshire
