Classy and Elegant but Relaxed described the vibe at Hollie & Rory’s Upton Barn and Walled Gardens Wedding
I first met Hollie and Rory a couple of years ago when Hollie was expecting their daughter and we booked in their wedding which at the time, felt like forever away. Hollie and Rory then welcomed baby Aida into the world shortly after Christmas in 2023 and they asked me to do some newborn photos for them.
It is always the biggest compliment and treat to be able to photograph couples and families time and time again and especially so when their tribe starts to grow. It was a delight to walk into the beautiful farm cottage where the bridal prep was taking place and see Aida, 18 months older than she was when I last saw her, swaddled and wrapped in a bundle as a tiny new born.
Bridal prep was so calm, a total dream, and Hollie looked absolutely stunning with her hair in a classic bun embellished with pearls and her sleek, backless, satin dress with a back necklace adding the most exquisite detail.
Upon Barns is such a versatile space and exudes class so that the most lavish and elegant weddings can be held here. Equally, it has enough character and rustic charm that it could also host a very relaxed and outdoorsy type wedding too. Hollie and Rory went with the first and everything was chic, classy and subtly charming allowing the venue to speak for itself.
Here I found Rory waiting for the arrival of his Bride, along with their guests. The couple had opted for an indoor ceremony as the forecast hadn’t quite made up its mind what it was doing however they did opt for an outside confetti aisle which is always my preference for a few reasons. Firstly, you get to see more of the venue and open spaces in your photos. Secondly, when you have confetti thrown at you as you exit the aisle, the people furthest away from you cannot always reach. Finally, if you get everyone outside in an aisle of single file guests, you get a longer aisle and more photo opportunities for the perfect confetti shot.
The grounds of Upton Barn were literally in bloom on this fine April day. The most beautiful blossom tree lined the drive way to down to the barns and do this of course made the most perfect spot for some couple shots. The lake is always a winner for me and a walk on the far side as I shoot the couple across the lake always gives you a moment of calm away from your guests (and me!!) which is often much needed on your wedding day! We were lucky to have enough time for Hollie and Rory to also get some photos with Aida too, and the iconic Oak Arbor was the obvious place to get some shots of the family of three.
One of the things that I really enjoy about Upton Barns is that they always encourage their couples to view the Stable Barn when it is ready for their wedding breakfast, ahead of their guests being allowed to enter the space. This also always makes for beautiful photos and the huge glass panelled windows often cast such whimsical shadows on the wall that are a dreamy addition to any couple shots. Not to mention the race horses in the paddocks that gaze in through the windows at the ongoings inside. As you probably well know by now, any venue with a four legged addition or two is always a win for me!
The speeches were wonderful, as usual, I found myself with a lump in my throat at the sheer emotion of the words spoken about the couple and of them speaking of each other. The rest of the evening was a hubbub of laughter and fun as a photo booth came and captured the attention of the many guests as well as the DJ who set up in the adjoining room. The spaces that Upton Barn has available for the wedding reception caters for every type of guest. There is a long, rustic bar with the addition of personalised cocktails, as well as a large seating areas where guests enjoy sitting and mingling. The dance floor is in a separate but easily accessible room so that the noise of the music is contained and those that would rather socialise can do so. And as if that isn’t enough, the courtyard hosts a magnificent fire pit, complete with s’mores to be toasted and enough space for an evening food van to pull into close proximity to the barn.
I have photographed a couple of weddings here now, both so different and equally as memorable. I truly cannot wait to return.
