A High-Energy Celebration Full of Music, Mates & Good Vibes
From the Very First Call
When I first met Emily and Leigh on their consultation call, it was instantly clear how easy they were to chat to. When we later met face to face in Manchester, where they live, that relaxed connection continued as we talked through their plans for the day.
Emily and Leigh had a pre-wedding shoot as part of their package which took place at Surprise View in the Peak District. Like so many couples, they told me they were nervous about having their photos taken (as they all say), but I reassured them they would be absolutely fine - and spoiler alert… they smashed it.
Morning Prep at Oakerthorpe Holiday Village
Emily and Leigh both got ready at Oakerthorpe Holiday Village, in separate rooms, surrounded by their favourite people.
From the moment I walked into Emily’s room, the vibes were immaculate. Huge speakers were blasting, everyone was laughing, and the energy was already party-ready. Hair and makeup by Sophie Griffiths, and Emily looked incredible in her dress from Jaynes Bridalwear.
Meanwhile, my second shooter was with Leigh and his groomsmen - and the energy there matched perfectly. One of the groomsmen was DJ-ing the morning away, setting the tone for what was to come. Leigh wore a suit from Moss Bros, and honestly, the whole morning felt like the perfect warm-up for an unforgettable day.
Bridal Party Moments Before the Ceremony
Before heading off to the ceremony, it was really important to Emily that she had some lovely photos with her bridal party. We took a little time to capture those moments together - relaxed, fun, and full of excitement - before making our way to Stretton Manor Barn.
An Outdoor Ceremony at Stretton Manor Barn
The outdoor ceremony at Stretton Manor Barn was absolutely beautiful. Styled perfectly by Rustic Rose Events, the setting was relaxed, romantic, and full of personality - and the weather held out for them to say their vows outside.
It was one of those ceremonies where you could feel the love, excitement, and anticipation for the celebration ahead.
Confetti, Drinks & Non-Stop Energy
The drinks reception was everything you’d want it to be - confetti flying, a very efficient group photo session, garden games, and guests soaking up the atmosphere.
From start to finish, the whole day felt like one big celebration. No awkward lulls, no forced moments - just people having the best time.
Relaxed Couples Portraits (Yes, Even Nervous Ones)
Emily and Leigh had told me they were nervous about couples portraits… but honestly, you would never know it. They trusted the process completely, stayed present in the moment, and just enjoyed being together.
Natural, relaxed portraits that feel exactly like them.
Speeches & Full Party Mode
Even the speeches matched the energy of the day - lively, funny, and full of excitement, perfectly setting the tone for the evening celebrations. Emily and Leigh chose to keep things true to them and skip a traditional cake cut, focusing instead on what mattered most, celebrating with their favourite people.
As the sun set, the party well and truly kicked off. With one of the best DJs I’ve ever worked with, Camou Chameleon, plus live saxophone player Sarah Sax Player to top it all off, the dance floor stayed full and the energy never dropped.
One Incredible Celebration
Emily and Leigh’s wedding was everything a wedding should be - full of love, laughter, music, and serious good vibes. From the very first song of the morning to the final beats of the night, it was an absolute joy to capture.
Thank you both so much for trusting me with your memories - what a day 🤍
Suppliers -
Venue - Stretton Manor Barn
Saxophone - Sarah Sax Player
DJ - Camou Chameleon
MUA + Hair - Sophie Griffiths
Venue decor - Rustic Rose Events
Flowers - Etsy
Dress - Jaynes Bridal Wear
Suit - Moss Bros
Rings - Austen and Blake
Photobooth - Oh Photobooth
Planning a Wedding Like This?
If you’re planning a relaxed, high-energy wedding at Stretton Manor Barn (or anywhere in Derbyshire or beyond) and want photography that captures the real atmosphere of your day without awkward posing, I’d love to hear from you.
