Luciana and Nick entered a competition to get married at Kelham Hall before they were even engaged. Clearly, they already had a fairly good idea of where things were heading!
When the proposal did come, Nick involved one of their dogs, with the ring attached to its collar. A lovely way to do it, although I’m not sure I’d trust every dog with that responsibility.
A relaxed wedding at Kelham Hall
Everything happened at the venue, from getting ready in the morning through to the evening celebrations. Luciana had her hair and makeup booked in upstairs, while Nick and his groomsmen got ready in the billiards room below. Having everyone in one place makes it much easier for me to move between the two and capture both sides of the morning.
Luciana wore a Wona Concept dress from Charlotte Elizabeth Bridal in Matlock, with flowers by Mapperley Blooms. Nick’s outfit came from Hendersons Tailoring.
Their plans were centred around keeping things relaxed. There was no top table and no first dance, and they weren’t planning a formal cake cutting either. Just because something is a wedding tradition doesn’t mean you have to make room for it in your day.
Time with their favourite people
Following the ceremony, the afternoon made space for canapés, catching up with guests and a few photographs together before the wedding breakfast and speeches.
For the group photographs, Luciana and Nick kept their list focused on immediate family. It’s an approach I always recommend: get the photographs that matter to you, then get back to enjoying your wedding. You don’t need to spend the whole drinks reception working through an endless list of combinations.
It also suits the way I photograph weddings. A few family groups and some relaxed couple photographs, with plenty of time left for the conversations, reactions and little moments happening around you.
Luciana made all the stationery herself, adding another personal touch to a day planned around what mattered to them.
Planning your own Nottinghamshire wedding?
If you’re looking for a Nottingham wedding photographer with a relaxed, documentary approach, I’d love to hear what you’ve got planned. A few family photos, a little time together, and plenty of space to enjoy the day with your favourite people.
