Some venues just have everything you could want for a wedding, and Pheasantry Brewery in East Markham is absolutely one of them.
Set in the beautiful Nottinghamshire countryside, it's a fantastic venue with gorgeous surroundings, plenty of character and loads of opportunities for photographs. Add in a genuinely lovely couple, brilliant guests and a relaxed atmosphere, and you've got the ingredients for a pretty special wedding.
Molly and Ben's wedding on 13th June was exactly that. One of those days where everything just came together beautifully, and I left thinking I'd love to photograph another wedding here.
A Relaxed Morning at The Old Dairy
I joined Molly and the bridal party at The Old Dairy, just a short distance from Pheasantry Brewery, where everyone was getting ready for the big day.
With bridesmaids, family and friends all staying nearby, there was plenty happening throughout the morning. Hair and makeup were underway, people were coming and going, and the excitement was gradually building as the ceremony approached.
Despite the busy house, the atmosphere was lovely and relaxed. Exactly what Molly and Ben had hoped for.
There were some beautiful little details to photograph too, from Molly's dress and accessories to the flowers, which had been put together by her sister Leanne of Everbloom Weddings. Having someone so close to you involved in creating something for your wedding always makes those details that little bit more special.
Once everyone was ready, it was time for the short journey over to Pheasantry Brewery.
Getting Married at Pheasantry Brewery
If you've never been to Pheasantry Brewery, it's well worth a look. Tucked away in the Nottinghamshire countryside near East Markham, it's a stunning setting for a wedding, combining beautiful buildings with open countryside and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere.
Molly and Ben's ceremony took place in the afternoon, surrounded by their closest family and friends.
After exchanging their vows, they made their way back down the aisle as newlyweds, accompanied by Burning Love by Elvis Presley. A brilliant choice of song and the perfect way to kick off the celebrations!
Outside, everyone gathered beneath the distinctive pheasant window for a confetti throw. There was plenty of confetti flying, lots of laughter, and some brilliant reactions from Molly and Ben as they made their way through their guests.
With the formalities out of the way, it was time to enjoy the afternoon.
Drinks, Laughter and the Nottinghamshire Countryside
One of the things I particularly loved about Molly and Ben's wedding was how much they wanted to enjoy the day with their guests.
They'd made it clear beforehand that they weren't interested in spending hours away from everyone having photographs taken. They wanted a handful of lovely portraits, some family photos, and then to get back to the celebrations.
That's always music to my ears!
The afternoon was exactly what a relaxed wedding should be. Guests mingling, drinks flowing, plenty of hugs and laughter, and lots of those little moments that make documentary wedding photography so enjoyable.
Pheasantry Brewery has some fantastic spots for photographs, particularly the surrounding lanes and open fields. We took a little time to wander away from the celebrations for some relaxed portraits of Molly and Ben together, making the most of the beautiful Nottinghamshire countryside.
Nothing overly complicated or staged. Just the two of them enjoying a few moments together before heading back to their guests.
Speeches, Surprises and an Absolutely Brilliant Evening
As the afternoon continued, guests headed inside for the wedding breakfast, with speeches taking place before everyone sat down to eat.
The celebrations carried on into the evening as more friends and family arrived, ready for the party.
After cutting their cake, Molly and Ben took to the dance floor for their first dance to *The Best* by Tina Turner. A fantastic choice and a lovely way to kick off the evening celebrations.
But the real highlight of the evening was still to come!
Molly's sister Leanne and her two nieces had been keeping a little secret. Following a full outfit change, the three of them appeared for a surprise Mamma Mia-inspired ABBA performance, much to the delight of everyone watching.
It was absolutely brilliant! One of those wonderfully unexpected wedding moments that had everyone laughing, cheering and loving every second. The outfits, the dancing, the reactions from the guests. Just fantastic!
With DJ Ben Matthews keeping the music going and the Oh Snap photo booth entertaining guests, the celebrations continued well into the evening.
What a way to finish an already brilliant day!
A Brilliant Nottinghamshire Wedding
Molly and Ben's wedding was one of those days that reminded me exactly why I love photographing weddings.
A genuinely lovely couple, a fantastic venue, and a day that was all about enjoying time with the people who matter most.
Pheasantry Brewery was an absolute pleasure to photograph. From the beautiful grounds and surrounding countryside to the character of the venue itself, it's a brilliant setting for a Nottinghamshire wedding. I'd love to return!
Molly and Ben, thank you both for having me along. It was an absolute pleasure capturing your day, and I hope the photographs bring back all those brilliant memories for years to come.
Congratulations again!
Planning a wedding in Nottinghamshire?
Whether you're getting married at Pheasantry Brewery, somewhere in Nottingham, or at another beautiful venue across Nottinghamshire, I'd love to hear about your plans.
My approach is all about natural, relaxed wedding photography. No endless posing, no awkward interruptions. Just genuine moments, beautiful portraits and photographs that tell the story of your day as it really happened.
If you're looking for a Nottingham wedding photographer who'll let you get on with enjoying your wedding, get in touch!
