Nestled in the heart of the gorgeous Cotswolds sits the historic Sudeley Castle. Dating back over a thousand years, it’s played witness to noble gatherings, love stories and was even the home to King Henry VIII’s last wife, Catherine Parr.
Imagine exchanging vows in the same halls where queens once walked, or dancing the night away in a courtyard that has seen centuries of revelry. The sense of grandeur and romance that permeates every corner of Sudeley Castle adds a unique depth to any wedding celebration.
I photographed Kirsty and Nick’s Covid wedding here in October 2020 (postponed from May 2020 when weddings literally couldn’t take place). There were only 15 guests (per the rules) and the day didn’t pan out quite like the initial plan: Kirsty and Nick had originally wanted their legal ceremony first thing in the morning in the Dent-Brocklehurst family library, before having their civil ceremony in the gardens later in the day in front of their family and friends. Instead, they moved their legal library ceremony to the afternoon and had drinks and photos on the lawns in the castle grounds.
Covid was an awful time for so many of us, but we were able to forget all about what was going on in the world for a few hours and just bathe in the love of Kirsty and Nick!
It was incredibly intimate – when the drinks were served on the lawn, everyone was able to take part in the same conversation; no shouting or raising voices for people to hear. It really felt so special, and actually was the inspiration for us when we got married that it’s totally okay to have a small wedding!
It was helped, of course, by the stunning location of Sudeley Castle. It’s not often they hold weddings there, so it feels even more exclusive to be adding your names to the castle’s incredible history.
The spots for epic photos are amazing! From dramatic castle ruins to the super romantic rose arbours and hidden gardens,you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to getting those important couple photos. The family photos were epic too, with the gorgeous Cotswold stone walls behind giving us a brilliant backdrop.
Later, we all travelled to The Slaughters Manor House in Lower Slaughter, a short drive away through the Cotswold lanes, for the wedding breakfast, speeches and evening party. With our own section of the hotel, we were able to continue the magic of the day, before the speeches began around one large table. Again, another bonus to having a small wedding party!
I genuinely don’t think there was a dry eye in sight during the speeches – including me! Really heartfelt and emotional, partly of course due to the setting we found ourselves in.
We also ventured out into the main village of Lower Slaughter to make the most of the iconic stream trickling through the village centre, with the Cotswold stone bridge passing over, for some gorgeous couple photos.
It was a genuine pleasure to photograph Kirsty and Nick’s day, and be part of such a small and precious day. It stayed with us for so many reasons, and we’re so honoured to have played a part in their wedding memories.
Here are some words from them both after receiving their photos – just the icing on the cake!
“Thank you so much Becky for being our photographer on our wedding day. Having a lockdown wedding was very stressful at times but Becky was very calm and helpful when we had to change dates, times and make different arrangements.
She was full of advice and it was so useful to have an expert help us with our plans. Becky captured all of our moments perfectly and although there were only 15 of us, there was a large variety of photos which will help us to always remember our special day. It was great on the actual day to put all of the stress behind us and know that Becky had everything in hand. I couldn’t recommend Becky enough for all of her help! Thank you so much X”
If you’re planning a wedding and are in need of a wedding photographer or videographer, have a look at our pricing page and contact us today!
