A Quiet Countryside Wedding with Big Views and Bigger Smiles
Some weddings just remind you why you love this job. Last weekend, I had the pleasure of photographing a small, relaxed wedding at a countryside venue, which is tucked away between Holmfirth and Sheffield, but luckily google maps will still find it!
Set down some windy country roads, the place had this peaceful, no-rush kind of atmosphere. No traffic noise, no crowds — just open skies, rolling fields, and the occasional curious sheep in the background. It’s so nice that you get the whole place to yourselves, so just you and your guests are there to celebrate.
Getting ready on site
Nicola got ready in a lovely lodge, right next to the ceremony room, but hidden from view. Every aspect has been considered, even getting that perfect place to hang the dress or suit before the big moment. The room has like a home from home, but with lots of mirrors and great lighting for your photographer and makeup artist.
The ceremony took place in the purpose-built barn which was just a stones throw from the lodge where Nicola got ready. With only close friends, family, and the couple’s dog in attendance, it was quiet, personal, and full of genuine moments. No stress. No fuss. Just the couple getting married, in a beautiful setting.
From a photographer’s point of view, the setting was a dream. Those long-reaching views gave us a natural backdrop that didn’t need dressing up. Every photo had depth, space, and that clean country light that makes skin tones glow and skies look like paintings.
Couple portraits
We took a short walk after the ceremony for some portraits — nothing staged or over-the-top — just the couple walking, laughing, and taking it all in. At golden hour, the sky turned soft and warm, and so we popped out to the other side of the venue to get the sun going down behind the tress.
There’s something special about these low-key, out-of-the-way venues. They strip things back to what really matters. And for couples who want their wedding day to feel like a deep breath of fresh air, places like this are hard to beat.
If you’re after a wedding that’s calm, natural, and all about the people you love (with a few sheep possibly photobombing your portraits), I’d say countryside venues are well worth a look, and the staff at Spicer Manor will certainly look after you!
Other countryside wedding venues;
Suppliers who deserve a shout out;
Flowers Louise at Buds and Blooms
Hair and Makeup: The Hair and Makeup Room
