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Emily & Dan – The White Barn, South Petherton
Some weddings feel relaxed and make you feel warm and fuzzy inside from the very beginning. Emily and Dan’s was exactly that.
Before the big day, we met them up on the Quantocks for their pre-wedding shoot. The Quantock Hills are one of their favourite spots, and it showed. Beautiful wavy trees, wide open skies, and those soft Somerset tones that make everything feel calm and atmospheric. It gave us time to wander, chat, and ease into being photographed. No pressure. No posing marathons. Just the two of them in a place that already meant something.
By the time their wedding arrived at The White Barn , everything felt right.
The Setting
The White Barn is one of those venues that strikes a balance between rustic and refined. Clean lines, open space, and countryside all around. It gives you room to breathe — and room to celebrate properly.
Emily and Dan filled it with laughter from the outset. No stiff formalities. No over-complication. Just friends, family, and that low hum of anticipation you get before something genuinely joyful begins.
By the Lake & Beneath the Magnolias
One of the best parts of the day was stepping away for a short wander around the grounds. The lake gave us those quiet, reflective moments.
And then the magnolia trees.
In bloom, they framed everything perfectly especially our beautiful couple. Soft petals, gentle light, and two people completely in love with each other. Natural movement, small glances, and the kind of laughter that happens when you forget you’re being photographed.
Those are always our favourite moments — when the camera becomes secondary and their story takes over.
A Silent Disco Done Properly
The evening shifted gears in the best possible way.
They went all in with a silent disco, and it was a complete hit. Watching a dance floor split into different musical worlds never gets old — one group belting out classics, another deep into something entirely different, all coexisting in joyful chaos.
From a photography perspective, silent discos are golden. Expression dialled up. Dance moves slightly uninhibited. Headphones glowing in the dark. It’s unpredictable, energetic, and endlessly entertaining.
Most importantly, it was fun. Proper, full-bodied fun.
The Whole Day
Emily and Dan’s wedding wasn’t about spectacle. It was about atmosphere. It was about connection. It was about creating space for everyone to relax and enjoy it.
From windswept views to lakeside calm and a headphone-fuelled dance floor, it felt personal from start to finish.
Exactly how it should be. Congratulations to this wonderful couple!
Holly and Johnny’s Wedding at Midelney Manor
Johnny and Holly during our pre-wedding shoot at the venue.
Johnny and Holly tied the knot on a beautifully sunny August day at Midelney Manor, just outside Langport in Somerset. The morning began in the west wing of the house, where they both got ready surrounded by their closest friends and family, setting a calm, happy atmosphere that carried through the entire day.
Johnny looked fantastic in his traditional Scottish attire, and with the sound of the bagpipes drifting across the grounds it marked a truly memorable moment. The pipes guided Holly into the Potting Shed, where their loved ones were eagerly waiting. There was a gentle blend of excitement and nerves, but Holly and Johnny’s easygoing nature and warmth instantly put everyone at ease. Their ceremony was a real highlight - held in the charming Potting Shed, a tucked-away gem within the manor’s historic grounds. With its characterful beams, festoon lighting, and eclectic details, the space perfectly reflected their relaxed, laid-back style.
Holly and Johnny’s Midelney Manor wedding was a joyful, sun-soaked celebration, filled with heartfelt moments and thoughtful personal touches.
Celebrations Across the Gardens
After the ceremony, everyone spilled out into the gardens for confetti, drinks, and music. The lush lawns and colourful flowers made the perfect backdrop for laughter-filled moments and natural, candid photos. Children kicked off their shoes and ran about, glasses were raised in the sunshine, and Holly and Johnny stole a quiet moment together for some relaxed, romantic portraits among the grasses and woodland.
The celebrations then continued under a beautifully stretched marquee in the gardens. To the sound of the bagpipes once again, Johnny and Holly were led to their table, where the moment was celebrated in true Scottish style with a well-earned shot of whisky.
Evening Revelry & Lasting Memories
The celebrations flowed easily between the bar in the Potting Shed, the marquee in the Round Garden, and the wild corners of Midelney. As golden hour enveloped the manor, we captured Holly and Johnny wrapped in soft Somerset light - those dreamy sunset portraits we all love.
Photographing Holly and Johnny at Midelney Manor reminded us why we adore spaces like this. The Potting Shed gave them a ceremony that was both unique and deeply personal, surrounded by history and the intimacy of their loved ones. The joy and connection were unmistakable in every frame, proof that this hidden corner of Somerset is the perfect place for a wedding with character, warmth, and heart.
Priston Mill
Priston Mill is one of those rare venues that seems to have been designed with photographers in mind, even though its history stretches back centuries before cameras existed. Every time we arrive here – deep in the Newton Park Estate valley just outside Bath – it feels like stepping into a ready‑made story: stone barns, flowing gardens and wide Somerset skies all working together in one frame.
Priston Mill wedding venue overview
Priston Mill sits within the Duchy of Cornwall’s Newton Park Estate, surrounded by rolling countryside and far‑reaching views between Bath and Bristol. The venue is home to two distinct spaces – the Tythe Barn and the Watermill – giving couples a choice of atmosphere while keeping everything in one idyllic location.
From a photography perspective, that combination is gold: ancient stonework, soft light, mature gardens and open fields all within walking distance, which means less time travelling and more time capturing genuine moments.
The Tythe Barn at Priston Mill
The Tythe Barn is a spectacular stone‑walled barn with rustic beams, high ceilings and space for around 50–150 guests for ceremonies and wedding breakfasts, and up to about 200 for the evening party. Set against far‑reaching countryside views, it’s ideal for couples dreaming of a classic barn wedding that still feels elegant and polished.
As photographers, we love how the Tythe Barn balances drama and warmth: long aisles for processional shots, balcony angles for speeches and first dances, and soft, directional light that flatters skin tones while still showing off the texture in the stone. Step outside and you are instantly in landscaped gardens and lawns, perfect for confetti runs, group photos and relaxed portraits without dragging guests far from the party.
The Watermill at Priston Mill
The ancient Watermill is a completely different but equally photogenic space, spread across three floors with private gardens and a backdrop of rolling countryside. With capacity for around 90 guests by day and a few more in the evening, it suits intimate weddings that still want character, depth and a sense of history.
From our point of view behind the cameras, the Watermill is all about layers: exposed beams, mill details, staircases and windows that let in slices of light. We love using each level for different parts of the story – preparations on one floor, drinks spilling into the garden, then dancing and late‑night photos framed by the warm interior lighting.
Gardens, views and golden hour
One of the biggest strengths of Priston Mill for photography is how beautifully the buildings sit within their landscape. The gardens around both the Tythe Barn and the Watermill offer lawns, borders, stone walls and tucked‑away corners that can be used for everything from family formals to quiet couple portraits.
At golden hour, the valley location really comes into its own: the light drops behind the surrounding hills, giving a soft, flattering glow that works perfectly for natural, unforced portraits. Whether couples want a five‑minute walk away from the crowd or a slightly longer wander into the fields, there are endless options for photos that feel relaxed and genuinely “them”.
Why we love photographing Priston Mill weddings
What stands out most about Priston Mill, beyond the obvious beauty, is how well it works on a practical level for weddings of 40 to 150+ guests. The in‑house team runs events smoothly, the food has an excellent reputation, and the flow from ceremony to drinks to dinner to dancing is seamless – which means more real moments and fewer pauses where people are left waiting.
For couples searching “Priston Mill wedding photographer”, “Tythe Barn Priston Mill wedding” or “Watermill Priston Mill wedding venue near Bath”, this is exactly the kind of place we love to work. Between the historic buildings, flexible spaces, beautiful light and breathtaking countryside, Priston Mill offers everything needed for a wedding day that not only feels incredible in the moment, but also looks timeless in the photographs for years to come.
Midelney Manor
Midelney Manor is the kind of place that feels like a secret – a mellow stone Elizabethan manor tucked into 400 acres of Somerset farmland and woodland, wrapped in roses, lavender and ancient trees. If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, creative, countryside wedding with a touch of bohemian elegance, this venue should be very high on your list.
First impressions of Midelney Manor
Arriving at Midelney Manor feels more like turning up at a family home than a “venue”. The house has been in Alice’s family, the Cely Trevilians, for around 500 years, and you can feel that history in the mullioned windows, polished stone floors and wood‑panelled rooms. Step outside and you’re immediately in a 17th‑century walled garden, with rambling roses climbing the stone, borders crammed with blooms and lavender, and views that drift out into oak trees and topiary.
Because it’s family run, the atmosphere is calm, friendly and very bespoke – they only host a limited number of weddings each year, so your day feels genuinely exclusive. It’s the sort of place where you can plan something a little different, knowing the setting will quietly do a lot of the storytelling for you.
Ceremony spaces you’ll love
One of the big joys of Midelney is how many distinct spaces you can play with, each giving a different feel on camera.
The Walled Garden: Perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony or post‑vow champagne, framed by rose‑covered walls and soft, colourful borders.
The Potting Shed: A huge rustic barn in the middle of the gardens, with old stonework, ancient beams and vintage flower‑show prize cards still pinned up, ideal for a ceremony, drinks space or evening bar.
Washams Woods: A peaceful woodland at the end of the garden where they create a magical ceremony space for blessings under the trees – think dappled light, rustic aisles and ethereal frames.
Inside the house: Smaller, intimate ceremonies can take place within the manor itself, surrounded by portraits, panelling and log fires for winter or micro‑weddings.
Because the venue is so flexible, it works just as well for a laid‑back boho tipi wedding as it does for a more classic English‑country‑house day.
Receptions, tipis and golden‑hour wandering
For your reception, Midelney Manor gives you the bones of a quintessential English garden party and lets you build on it in your own way.
Round Garden: This is where a marquee, tipi or yurt sits perfectly, with the Potting Shed nearby and the house as a backdrop – great for festival‑style setups or more minimal, modern styling.
Food and drink: They work with trusted local caterers and you’ll have a proper bar on site, so whether you’re going simple pie‑and‑mash or multi‑course feasting, it feels relaxed but well looked after.
Party vibes: With a late licence and exclusive use, the gardens and barn become your own little pocket of Somerset for the night, with festoon lights, live music and that “we’re in our own world” feeling.
From a photography point of view, it’s a dream – we can wander from walled garden to woodland to long grass at golden hour, never leaving the grounds, and every spot looks like a different scene.
Little details couples always ask about
Here are the practical bits that tend to come up in planning chats, all in one place.
Guest numbers: Up to around 150 guests for both ceremony and reception.
Style: Traditional English country house with a bohemian, slightly wild‑garden edge rather than manicured formality.
Licensed for ceremonies: Yes, with options both indoors and outdoors.
On‑site accommodation: The west wing of the manor (Midelney West) sleeps up to 7 and is self‑catering – ideal for getting ready and making a weekend of it.
Exclusivity: Yes – you have the house, gardens and grounds to yourselves.
Pet‑ and child‑friendly: Dogs and little ones are welcome, which always makes for the best candids.
It’s one of those venues where the logistics support the day quietly in the background, so you’re free to focus on bringing your personalities into the styling, music and food. Alice, in particular, is wonderful and always on hand, but never in your face. She’s the perfect companion in the wedding process!
Is Midelney Manor your kind of venue?
If you’re picturing a day that feels intimate, creative and deeply rooted in the countryside, Midelney Manor fits beautifully. It suits couples who love the idea of drifting from a woodland blessing to champagne in a rose garden, then dancing in a tipi under the stars, all without ever leaving one timeless Somerset estate.
For more information, have a look at their website at https://www.midelneymanor.co.uk/weddings/
A beautiful wet wedding at Higher Holcombe
Rebecca and Oliver’s wedding at Higher Holcombe was pure magic — downpour hammering the trees, but not a hint of dampening the emotion that poured out all day, with their four girls right at the core of every beat. We’ve shot woodland spots before as Em & Woz, but this Devon hideaway? It wrapped their story — kids included — in something raw and unforgettable. Different energy every time, same wild beauty.
Rainy woodland wonder
Nestled in unspoilt Devon countryside, just minutes from Exeter. That silver birch church in the woods — white trunks like a natural aisle, leaves whispering overhead. Downpour hit as guests arrived, heavy and relentless, turning everything misty and intimate. Rebecca, Oliver and their four girls leaned right into it. No fuss. Just real.
Ceremony hit hard. A pair of musicians played in the trees — fiddles and voices weaving through the birch, rain lashing around them. Vows exchanged under that shady canopy, the girls beaming and teary right there in the heart of it. Emotional doesn’t cover it. Proper heart stuff.
Back to marquee & barn
Post-ceremony, everyone dashed back to the stretch marquee and Old Dairy Barn, the four girls leading the charge, dripping and giggling. Downpour raged on, but the mood lifted — drinks flowing, laughs bouncing off the rustic beams and canvas walls. Love how Higher Holcombe keeps it all close: woods to barn, no rushing. We slipped about, catching those soaked-but-happy family moments.
Portraits? Brief dash through the meadows as the light softened. Wet grass, misty hills, the six of them wrapped together. That rainy glow made it. Nothing staged. Just them, drenched and smiling.
Marquee meal & music
Stretch marquee stretched out cosy for the meal — views to the woods, fairy lights kicking in as daylight faded. Those same musicians set up at the edge of the marquee, people gathered around them, playing through dinner. The girls danced in their seats, guests grinning, forks paused mid-bite. Downpour thundered outside, but inside? Warm chaos, speeches landing heavy, food hitting the spot.
Barn rock energy
Later, the Old Dairy Barn fired up proper — a cracking four-piece rock band took the stage, no DJ needed. The girls owned the floor first, then everyone piled in, woods calling for breathers, glamping tents waiting nearby. We chased the unguarded joy — rain forgotten, energy electric.
Why it works here
Downpour or shine, Rebecca, Oliver and their four girls made Higher Holcombe theirs — birch church, marquee flow, barn party, musicians tying it all. Blank canvas that bends to your crew. That’s the pull.
Hunting “Higher Holcombe wedding photographer”? Or a Devon woodland barn near Exeter? This one delivers raw family feels, killer light (even in a downpour), and space for your story. We’re all about that — emotion first, you being you.
Hollie and George
Hollie and George’s day at Priston Mill’s Tythe Barn was brilliant fun, especially the singing waiters and the wedding party having a tug of war in the gardens!
Fresh barn magic
Tucked in that Duchy of Cornwall valley, just spitting distance from Bath and Bristol. Rose path crunching underfoot, stone walls glowing, fields stretching forever. Hollie and George layered in their florals and colours — turned the familiar into something fresh and theirs.
Inside? Pure drama. High ceilings, beams, that long aisle. Light floods in soft and warm from the windows. Aisle walk, vows, first kiss — all caught in that flattering glow. Proper magic.
Garden drinks & glow
Ceremony done, everyone heads out to those gardens. Curvy paths, lawns, flowers — countryside framing it all. Love this spot at Priston Mill. Guests mingle with drinks and canapés, we slip around catching the real chats and laughs.
Portraits? Quick wander to the walls and fields. Golden hour hits, valley lights up soft. No posing nonsense. Just them, connected, light doing its thing. Spot on for their natural style.
Party time
Back in for dinner and speeches. Food? Guests rave about it — that’s Priston Mill staple. Everything flows seamless, ceremony to feast to dance, all under one roof.
Then the singing waiters stole the show, blending into service before erupting into song — pure energy shift, guests roaring with laughter and joining in. Lights down, music up after — barn turns party central. Bar buzzing, floor packed, easy outs to the gardens. We’re there for the unguarded reactions, the chaos and joy, unfiltered.
What makes it work
Alex & Cally, Hollie & George — same barn, gardens, team, grub. Totally different days, especially with those singing waiters adding Hollie and George’s cheeky twist. That’s Priston Mill. Adaptable. Lets your story shine.
Searching “Priston Mill Tythe Barn wedding photographer”? Or a Bath/Bristol barn spot? This place delivers. We focus on the feels — raw emotion, killer light, you being you.
Zita & Neil – St Andrew’s Church Backwell & Coombe Lodge
Some days just feel like Somerset from start to finish, and Zita and Neil’s wedding was one of them – village church, winding country lanes and a golden‑hour drive up to Coombe Lodge with the hills doing their thing in the background.
St Andrew’s Church, Backwell
By the time Zita arrived at St Andrew’s Church in Backwell, everyone was already inside, settled into pews and buzzing quietly with that “it’s really happening” energy. The church itself is basically the blueprint for “English village church” – old stone, stained glass and that soft, slightly echoey light that makes everything feel a bit more magical.
Because guests were already seated, there was this brilliant stillness just outside the doors: a quick deep breath, a last dress check, and then straight into that long walk down the aisle. Inside, the warm light and historic details framed the readings, hymns and vows beautifully, and we tucked ourselves into corners to catch all the good stuff – hand squeezes, happy tears and those fast little glances between them that say far more than the official words.
Backwell lanes, bridal car and Coombe Lodge
After confetti on the church steps, it was time to swap stone walls for countryside views. Zita and Neil headed off towards Coombe Lodge in the bridal car, and Em tucked in behind them in our car, window down, lens out, grabbing photos along the lanes as they went. There’s something really special about those in‑between moments – just‑married smiles in the rear‑view mirror, a dress spilling over the back seat, the two of them finally breathing for a second with no one else in the car.
The drive itself isn’t long, but it’s enough to feel the day shift gears – village church fading into the background, Coombe Lodge getting closer with every bend in the road. By the time guests swept up the long drive, they were greeted by the honey‑coloured 1920s house, rolling hills and views out towards Chew Valley and Blagdon Lake, and it all felt like the perfect “part two” to the day.
Coombe Lodge wedding reception
Coombe Lodge is exclusive‑use, which basically means once you’re in, it’s your house for the day – and Zita and Neil definitely leaned into that. The entrance hall, sweeping staircase and limed‑oak panelling did their usual “Oh wow, this is nice” job as guests came in for drinks and canapés.
Most of the action happened in the light‑filled Music Room, which opens straight onto the terrace and lawns. It’s one of those spaces that can handle pretty much anything – long banquet tables, classic rounds, or something more relaxed – and it still feels airy and elegant rather than crowded. Speeches, laughs, a few happy‑cry moments… it all landed really nicely in that room.
Food, sunset and dance floor
Coombe Lodge has a bit of a reputation for very good food, and Zita and Neil’s menu absolutely lived up to that – beautifully presented plates, local ingredients and a front‑of‑house team who somehow managed to be everywhere without ever being in the way.
As the sun dropped, the Music Room shifted into full party mode with a brilliant live band getting everyone moving. Later in the evening, Zita changed into a stunning red dress – a traditional colour for her – and made her grand entrance down the sweeping staircase straight onto the dance floor. The room absolutely erupted; it was one of those moments that felt like pure celebration, with the band playing louder, guests cheering and the energy just skyrocketing from there. Guests drifted between the bar, terrace and dance floor, the hills turned that soft evening blue, and the night carried on exactly as a wedding that good should.
Waking up at Coombe Lodge
One of the perks of Coombe Lodge is its on‑site bedrooms – twelve bright, spacious en‑suite rooms tucked away upstairs – so the day doesn’t have to end with the last song. Zita and Neil stayed over with some of their favourite people, which meant the wedding eased gently into breakfast, coffee and “Do you remember when…?” stories the next morning, all without leaving that countryside bubble.
If you’re planning a St Andrew’s Church Backwell wedding and looking for somewhere special for the reception, or you’ve fallen down a “Coombe Lodge Somerset wedding” search hole, Zita and Neil’s day is a pretty perfect example of how well those two work together: classic village church energy, big‑sky manor house views, a little bridal‑car‑convoy magic in the middle, a red-dress dance-floor moment for the ages and a relaxed, elegant feel from first bell to final dance.
Dagmar & Jonathan – Nature’s Spectacular
Some weddings feel like they were always meant to happen in one specific place, and Dagmar and Jonathan’s woodland day at Nature’s Spectacular was absolutely one of those. Trees, lake glimpses, that slightly wild-but-completely-perfect glamping vibe – it was theirs from the first frame.
Woodland waking up around them
The morning kicked off slowly with Dagmar getting ready in a beautiful yurt, birds doing their thing outside and everyone sipping coffee before the day properly started. No faffing around with multiple locations – everything happened right there on site, so friends and family just wandered between spaces, helping with buttonholes and generally soaking up the calm forest air.
We split up as usual – one of us with Dagmar in the yurt’s soft light (dresses, details, that growing excitement), the other with Jonathan under the trees (suits, slightly nervous laughs, the works). Parallel stories, same woodland backdrop, no rush.
Ceremony in the trees
They went all-in on the woodland ceremony spot – guests lining a natural path through the trees, wooden benches, just enough decor to guide the eye but letting the forest do 90% of the atmosphere. Birds singing, dappled light, that perfect “we’re outside but it feels magical” feeling.
We crept around the edges catching reactions, readings, the moment they locked eyes and said the words. A canopy-framed “I do” is pretty hard to beat, and the flow from arriving-through-the-trees to everyone-gathered felt completely effortless.
Lakeside wander, firelit evening
Post-ceremony, guests spread out – some by the lake, some back at the communal fire, everyone just being in that 35 acres of Arcadia magic. We nipped off with Dagmar and Jonathan for a quick lakeside wander – logs, paths, Chew Valley Lake peeking through – nothing posed, just them being newlyweds in a place that already looked incredible.
Come evening, the illuminated woodland took over: fairy lights along paths, that fire crackling at the heart of it all, guests wrapped in blankets with drinks, laughter carrying through the trees. The kind of atmosphere that photographs itself.
Why this place = them
Nature’s Spectacular is for couples who want to feel married in nature, not just have a ceremony next to some fake trees in a hotel. Off-grid cabins, yurt getting-ready, woodland ceremony, lakeside views, one location from coffee to campfire dancing – it’s all there.
For us, it was peak “do what we love” territory: real emotion, ridiculous light, guests who got stuck straight into the barefoot-in-the-grass, dancing-by-firelight vibe. If Nature’s Spectacular or Arcadia glampsite weddings are on your radar, this is the kind of day we’d happily repeat.
Coombe Lodge
A Magical Day at Coombe Lodge – Through Our Lens
We’ve been lucky enough to photograph weddings in some truly beautiful venues across the South West, but Coombe Lodge, nestled just outside Bristol, holds a special place in our hearts. Every time we arrive, we’re reminded why it’s such a dream spot for both couples and photographers alike.
Arriving at Coombe Lodge
Driving up the sweeping approach, you can instantly feel the sense of occasion. The house itself is breathtaking – a classic, golden-stone country manor surrounded by acres of carefully kept gardens. From the moment we step out with our cameras, we’re already spotting perfect backdrops everywhere.
The Light and Atmosphere
As photographers, we’re always chasing good light, and Coombe Lodge never disappoints. The elegant interiors are flooded with soft natural light, perfect for capturing those quiet, intimate getting-ready moments. Step outside, and the gardens provide endless opportunities – from romantic portraits under the trees to wide shots of the Mendip Hills rolling in the background. That golden-hour glow across the lawns always leaves us grinning behind our cameras.
A Venue That Feels Like Home
What we love most is how warm and inviting Coombe Lodge feels. It’s grand, yes, but never overwhelming. Couples and guests can relax in the space and really make it their own. We’ve seen champagne toasts on the terrace, children playing on the lawns, and late-night dancing under twinkling lights. Every time, it feels unique and deeply personal.
Why We Keep Coming Back
For us at Em and Woz Photography, it’s a venue that ticks every box: stunning architecture, natural beauty, seamless flow for the day, and an atmosphere that makes people comfortable in front of the camera. It’s a place where stories unfold naturally – and that’s exactly what we love to capture.
Every wedding at Coombe Lodge has its own rhythm, its own energy. But the one constant is how this space seems to cradle all those beautiful emotions, making them shine just that little bit brighter in our images.
Find their site at: www.coombelodge.co.uk
Polly and Hamish
What a truly gorgeous wedding day this was. A perfect May celebration, blessed with uninterrupted sunshine from morning to night. We were both lucky enough to capture the morning preparations, spending time separately with the bride and groom as the excitement built. The house was alive with energy, laughter, and anticipation, surrounded by close family and friends - a wonderful start to such a special day.
The ceremony took place at the church in Ditchett, near Shepton Mallet, followed by a short walk up to Hamish’s beautiful family home in the village for the reception. With its sweeping landscaped gardens, grand Georgian house, and elegant marquee, it was the most idyllic wedding setting. The couple drove themselves back to the house in a Land Rover, just as the bridal party had travelled to the church which was a lovely personal touch.
One of my favourite parts of the day was the buzz of the house during preparations before leaving for the ceremony. Polly’s mum, Emma, did a wonderful job placing her veil, and it was a real honour to witness and capture such intimate, meaningful moments between mother and daughter.
The garden reception was absolutely stunning, from the beautiful dresses to the classic tailcoats; every detail was a joy to photograph. The atmosphere was incredible, and as the evening unfolded, the celebrations became wonderfully lively, with a packed marquee and guests dancing well into the early hours.
Eleanor and Harry
Eleanor and Harry’s Mells Barn wedding was everything a Somerset village celebration should be: relaxed, personal and full of character, with an outdoor ceremony, a stroll through the village and portraits in the surrounding countryside. For couples searching for a rustic barn wedding venue near Frome or Bath, their day is a perfect example of how to make the most of Mells Tythe Barn and the beautiful village setting around it.
Mells Barn wedding in the heart of the village
Mells Tythe Barn is a Grade II* listed 14th/15th‑century building in the centre of the picturesque village of Mells, just a few miles west of Frome and around 13 miles south of Bath. With its large wooden‑floored hall, raised stage and big rear garden, it works brilliantly for wedding receptions that feel rustic, atmospheric and totally individual.
For Eleanor and Harry, choosing Mells Barn meant being surrounded by history – with the Grade I listed church, manor house and the old Talbot coaching inn all a short walk away – while still having the flexibility of a village hall-style space they could make completely their own.
Getting ready at the village pub
The wedding morning began at the local pub, a classic Somerset inn just a short walk from the barn, where Eleanor and Harry got ready surrounded by their closest people. The cosy rooms, uneven floors and old beams made the perfect backdrop for those natural, in‑between moments: buttoning dresses and waistcoats, sharing a pre‑ceremony drink, and nervously checking the time.
As their photographers (working together as a two‑person team), this setup allowed coverage of both sides of the story – one of us with Eleanor, one with Harry – capturing the energy of the morning without rushing between locations. The pub also set the tone for the rest of the day: relaxed, village‑based and full of warmth.
Outdoor wedding at Mells Barn
Eleanor and Harry chose to make the most of the outdoor space at Mells Barn by holding their wedding celebrations outside, using the rear garden as the focal point. The large lawn behind the barn, with its views over the village and space for seating or a marquee, created a natural setting for their outdoor wedding setup and drinks reception.
With the barn as a backdrop, guests could move freely between inside and out – popping in for shade or shelter and heading back into the garden whenever the sun came out. This kind of flexible, semi‑DIY space is ideal for couples who want to design a day that feels informal and personal, while still having the practicality of a fully fitted kitchen, bar area and facilities inside the barn.
Photos on the village road, in the fields and garden centre
One of the best things about a Mells Barn wedding is the village itself: narrow lanes, stone cottages and leafy views are all on the doorstep. After their ceremony, we walked with Eleanor and Harry down the village road, a time for them to enjoy being just the two of them while we photographed them against the backdrop of historic stone buildings, pub signs and garden walls.
Just beyond the barn, the surrounding fields gave us space for softer, more open portraits – long grass, big skies and that feeling of having briefly stepped away from the crowd. The garden centre next door added another layer of texture: paths between plants, pots and greenery created a calm, intimate setting for photos that felt different from the barn and the village street, but still completely part of their day.
Why Mells Barn suited Eleanor and Harry
Mells Barn is ideal for couples who want a rustic Somerset barn wedding that still feels connected to a real village community. With its historic hall, large garden, proximity to a country pub and beautiful streets to wander for photos, it offers endless opportunities to build a day that flows naturally from one space to the next.
For Eleanor and Harry – and for us as their photographers – that meant a story that moved from pub to village road, into the fields, through the garden centre and finally back to the barn as the focal point of the celebrations. If you are searching for “Mells Barn wedding photographer” or planning an outdoor wedding at Mells Tythe Barn, their day is a perfect example of how much variety and character you can fit into one small Somerset village.
A Wine Tasting Evening at Mullions in Street
The Mullions 51 wine tasting night felt a bit like being invited into someone’s living room… if that someone had an excellent wine supplier and a very good chef.
We rocked up as Em & Woz with cameras in hand and were instantly hit with that cosy, slightly buzzy energy – small groups claiming their tables, bottles lined up at the bar, and that low hum of “What are we drinking first?” floating around the room.
Glasses were poured, noses went into glasses (some more confidently than others), and pretty quickly the room filled with the sound of “Ooh, I like that one” and “Wait, which one was this again?”. We moved between tables catching all the good stuff: the raised eyebrows at a surprise favourite, the friends who clearly hadn’t seen each other in ages, the laughter getting just a little louder with every pour.
One of our favourite parts of the evening was nipping into the kitchen to photograph the Mullions 51 team at work – plates being dressed, sauces finished, everything timed to land perfectly with the wine. Front‑of‑house was all chat and clinking glasses; behind the scenes was all focus, timing and a lot of teamwork.
If you’re hunting for a Somerset night out that isn’t just “go for dinner, go home”, keep an eye on the Mullions 51 events – these tasting evenings are such a good mix of relaxed, a bit treat‑y and properly delicious. And if you spot us there again with cameras, come say hi (preferably between courses, not mid‑mouthful of pinot).
Phoebe and Max
We had an absolute blast photographing Phoebe and Max’s stunning New Year's Eve wedding! What a celebration it was! It was especially meaningful for me to capture their day, as the wedding took place in the village where I grew up and still have many ties. I loved following the bride to the church, where guests were greeted with mulled wine and mince pies. Woz was already there, ready to greet the bride, and the whole event had such a relaxed, fun vibe with plenty of champagne flowing. The reception took place at Phoebe’s family home, where the festivities carried on well into the night and where we were privy to witness a four man worm on the dance floor! Thank you for allowing us to capture such a beautiful and unforgettable wedding - it was truly a joy!
A Garden Festival with Emily and Ferdinand!
Emily and Ferdinand’s garden festival wedding was a riot of colour and pure summer joy — bright marquees popping against lush green lawns, wildflowers everywhere, and that free-spirited energy that turned their country garden into the perfect party spot.
Festival garden chaos
Their own country garden became the full backdrop — rolling lawns, established trees framing it all, and a festival vibe that felt less like a formal wedding and more like the best bank holiday gathering you’ve ever crashed. Brightly coloured tents dotted the space, strung with fairy lights and bunting, giving shade for drinks and dinner while keeping everything open to the sky.
Bright, bold details
Think vivid rugs on the grass, mismatched chairs, pom poms hanging from branches, and tables heaving under the weight of sharing platters. The florals went big — jewel‑toned dahlias, sunflowers and loosestrife spilling out of every vase, picked to echo the wild edges of the garden itself. It was unpretentious, loud with colour, and completely them.
Drinks under canvas
As guests arrived, the marquees filled with laughter over fizz and gin, kids running loops around the lawn, adults kicking off shoes and sinking into the grass. That sofa under the willows became a magnet for photo ops — guests sprawling out, grins wide, framed by trailing branches and dappled light. That loose, festival flow let everyone drift — from shaded bars to open croquet patches, with us catching the unguarded chats and those first warm‑up dances as the sun dipped.
Feasting & festival night
Dinner spread out family‑style under the main marquee, long tables lit by lanterns, music filtering through speakers rigged in the trees. Speeches landed easy between mouthfuls, then the band kicked in proper — full festival setup with a wooden dance floor laid right on the lawn. Marquees stayed busy for breathers, but most spilled out to dance barefoot under the stars, garden borders glowing in the dusk.
Why their garden worked
No venue could’ve beaten this. Their country garden gave total freedom — marquees for cover, colour everywhere, space to roam, that sofa under the willows stealing every casual shot. Emily and Ferdinand shaped every bit of it into their own wild, bright world. Proper festival heart, no corners cut, just them and theirs from golden hour right through to the last slow song.
Tom and Lou
What a beautiful summer wedding for Tom and Lou! Woz and I had an amazing time photographing this special day at Yurtcamp in Devon. I’ve probably mentioned this a few times, but I really hope this blog post highlights just how much having two photographers can offer with capturing different perspectives of your wedding day. While Woz was with Tom and his groomsmen, documenting their prep, I spent the morning with Lou and her wonderful bridesmaids, capturing their moments. It was so lovely to see both sides of the preparations.
Lou looked absolutely stunning in her elegant two-piece wedding outfit, paired with a gorgeous 1920s-style bolero which I'm seriously obsessed with it! Tom looked incredibly sharp in his suit and bow tie. Friends and family gathered from near and far, especially Tom’s family who traveled all the way from Australia - Tom’s Australian roots might have something to do with that! It was a truly fantastic day—so relaxed and full of joy. We had the best time and it was a pleasure getting to know these two. Huge congratulations to Tom and Lou!
Zoe and James
Zoe and James’ wedding day was one of those easy, joy‑soaked Bristol stories — city buzz in the morning, countryside calm by evening, hot air balloons drifting across the sky like something out of a film, and Eddie the golden retriever trotting along as part of the whole joyful crew. Zoe got ready at the Harbour Hotel in Bristol, all soft light, tiled bathrooms and that relaxed, pre‑ceremony chaos with her favourite people around her.
City heart, grand ceremony
Their ceremony took place at Bristol Register Office in the Mayoral Room — a grand yet intimate space lined with paintings of former Bristol mayors and centred around an ornate fireplace that gives everything a real sense of occasion. The room felt formal in the best way, but still warm and personal as they said their vows.
After the ceremony, everyone spilled outside and gathered on the steps, the classic Bristol backdrop framing hugs, confetti and those just‑married grins — Eddie bounding about, tail wagging through it all! It’s one of those spots that works perfectly for relaxed, documentary‑style photos — nothing too staged, just the buzz of friends, family and furry friend around them.
On the hill, pure countryside
On the way to the reception, we took a detour to the top of a hill in a park — a very special and poignant place for Zoe. They took a breather there, remembering loved ones in the quiet. It was a lovely time spent with them both, with rolling hills and wildflowers framing those heartfelt portraits.
Doynton village hall, big skies and balloons
Their reception was held in the village hall in Doynton — a beautiful, sleepy spot where the hall sits at the heart of everything and the views roll out for miles. Inside, the space was filled with personal touches, handmade details and the kind of styling that feels less like an event and more like a gathering of all the best people (and dogs) in their lives. Lint rollers on hand!
As the evening drew in, the sky started to fill with colour: hot air balloons from the Bristol Balloon Festival floated across the horizon, perfectly framed behind the hall and fields. Zoe and James stepped outside with Eddie at their heels and we made the most of it — them in the foreground, balloons drifting in the distance, a proper Bristol moment wrapped into their Doynton village‑hall wedding. It was the perfect blend of city, countryside and a whole lot of heart, exactly the kind of day that feels true to them from start to finish.
Jess and Owen
This was a wedding which I had the honour of capturing back in July. What I absolutely love about photographing weddings is that each one is uniquely beautiful in its own way. Every couple brings something distinct to their special day, and this couple certainly did it their way - it was truly magnificent! The weather was certainly all over the place on this day, with sunny moments mixed with heavy downpours, adding an extra layer of excitement to the day. Their ceremony was incredibly moving, featuring personal vows, hand fasting, other enchanting rituals and a beautiful unrehearsed speech by their little girl. I have to say one of my favourite moments of their was seeing this beautiful couple jump over the broomstick, a traditional English custom. It was absolutely wonderful! I wish them nothing but happiness as they begin their journey together. It was an absolute privilege to capture such a special ceremony! Thank you!
https://www.wildoakwellbeing.co.uk/ceremonies.html#handfasting-ceremonies-in-somerset
Yard Act at Bristol!
As our blog might show, we love live music, and one of the best live bands out there at the moment is Yard Act…they just keep getting better and better!
There’s often restrictions on what camera you are allowed to bring into a gig - if you’re allowed one at all. In this case, I was allowed to bring my X-Pro with just one small lens (27mm if you’re interested!) but as we were right at the front centre, this worked really well!
Bronwyn and David
Bronwyn and David’s breathtaking bohemian wedding was an absolute joy to be a part of! These two are such a special couple, and we were truly honoured to capture their day, especially their prep in the stunning house where they were staying. It was just the two of them, along with their adorable baby daughter. One of the most heartwarming moments was when David helped Bronwyn into her dress—it was a beautiful, emotional touch.
Their intimate and meaningful ceremony took place at St. Clements Church in Ashampstead, a place very dear to Bronwyn. Afterward, they shared a lovely lunch at The Crown & Anchor in Ham, Wiltshire. The entire day was truly magical, and we wish them a lifetime of love and happiness!
