Wedding at The Tithe Barn. Some weddings just feel like pure joy from start to finish, and Lucy & Dean’s day at the beautiful Tithe Barn at Bolton Abbey was exactly that. A day bursting with love, laughter, and family, all set against the most stunning Yorkshire backdrop.
Getting Ready.
Lucy got ready at home with her four girls, her lovely mum, and her bridesmaids. The atmosphere was calm, full of giggles and the kind of excitement that comes with a long-anticipated day. The girls flitted about in matching pjs while Lucy had her makeup done, and the black bridesmaid dresses she chose were effortlessly stylish. Lucy stepped into her stunning strapless gown—complete with pockets and the most elegant front split— with the help of her maid of honour. Then her mum walked in and gasped, hand to mouth, eyes welling up. There were a few deep breaths and then a very emotional hug. It was such a beautiful moment to witness and capture.
Ceremony.
Lucy walked down the aisle on her own, head held high, radiating confidence and beauty. Dean stood at the front in black tie, visibly emotional as he caught sight of her. But just as the tears started to fall, their little boy broke the tension in the most unexpected and hilarious way: “That’s not Lucy!” he shouted, genuinely confused by how different (and glamorous!) she looked. The whole room burst into laughter, and Lucy grinned the rest of the way down the aisle.
Drinks Reception.
After the heartfelt ceremony, we all spilled out into the garden for confetti—always one of my favourite moments to photograph. My friend and second shooter, Matt Sim, joined me for the drinks reception to help capture plenty of candid, joyful moments. The kids raced about, guests sipped bubbly, and we had time for a few fun group shots before sneaking Lucy and Dean away to the front of the barn. These two are so effortlessly in sync, and it was such a joy photographing them together.
Dinner and speeches followed, and not a dry eye in the house! Lucy’s maid of honour gave a speech full of warmth and mischief, then Dean followed with a heartfelt tribute to his new wife and their blended family. His best man had everyone in stitches—perfectly balancing humour with real emotion.
Party Time.
Later, when the speeches were finished and guests were back at the bar, we nipped back outside for a few more portraits in the field in front of the barn. The soft light, the quiet moments between Lucy and Dean—it was wedding magic.
The evening kicked off with a champagne tower in the back garden, perfectly placed to enjoy the sweeping view down to Bolton Abbey. Then came cake cutting, a romantic first dance, and a packed dance floor thanks to the brilliant Southwest Band. Lucy and Dean had even provided light-up foam wands, which made for some fantastic party shots!
We ended the night under the stars with a sparkler tunnel, and I couldn’t think of a better way to finish a day so full of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Suppliers:
Venue: The Tithe Barn
Second photographer: Matt Sim
Make up: Helen Armstrong
Hair: Anna Holroyd
Florist: Ivy & Eve
Cake: The Cook & Cake
