Phoebe & Nathan | The Manor House Hotel and Spa, West Auckland

Weddings

Jul 14

You've all been burying too many sausages, ladies.

That's my way of saying it was absolutely sweltering — record-breaking, fan-yourself-in-the-shade, definitely-should-have-worn-SPF kind of hot. But honestly? When you look back at these images, I defy anyone to say it wasn't perfect. Because it was.

Phoebe and Nathan got married at The Manor House Hotel and Spa in West Auckland — and this was my first time shooting the outdoor ceremony space there, which made it extra exciting. I've been looking forward to getting out into those grounds and I was not disappointed. Stone walls, established gardens, that gorgeous gazebo for the signing — it was made for a summer wedding.

Bridal prep was just beautiful. Phoebe at the window in her incredible lace gown from Sorella Bridal, a bouquet of white roses, ranunculus and daisies from Flora and Fern Studio trailing from her hands, the morning light doing all the work for me. And Daisy — the fluffiest, most photogenic cockapoo in the entire North East — sitting proudly on the window seat next to the bouquet like she'd been doing this for years. A natural. An icon.

Nathan and his groomsmen got ready downstairs in the hotel's gorgeous bar area — all cream suits, navy ties, and cufflinks — and there's a brilliant shot of his dad adjusting his lapel that I know is going to mean everything to them when they see it.

The outdoor ceremony itself was just stunning. Nathan standing at the arch, flowers absolutely everywhere, and then Phoebe walking towards him in that dress in the summer sunshine. He completely lost it — and I mean that in the best possible way. That frame of him wiping his eyes before she even reached him is one of my favourites I've ever taken.

The two dogs — Daisy in her bow tie for the ceremony, and her pal in their matching collar — sat beautifully through the whole thing and then completely upstaged everyone at the register signing. I wouldn't have it any other way.

Inside, the room was breathtaking — those toile de jouy walls, parquet floors, rustic mezzanine with fairy lights, gold chiavari chairs, tall white florals running the length of the top table. Phoebe had clearly thought of every detail. And then the guests got to enjoy Luke Howells wandering amongst them doing close-up magic during the reception, which — judging by some of the expressions I captured — went down very well indeed.

That golden hour kiss against the Manor House stonework, sun flaring beautifully behind them, is going straight into the portfolio.

Phoebe and Nathan — Mr and Mrs Skippen — what a joy of a day. Congratulations, you two. And give Daisy a scratch behind the ears from me. 🐾🥂

If you're planning a wedding at The Manor House Hotel West Auckland or anywhere in County Durham and you'd love a photographer who'll notice all the details — I'd love to chat. Get in touch here.

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