Thornton Manor Wedding Photography
Wedding photography at Thornton Manor
Congratulations to Vicky and Chris whose big day took place in the village of Thornton Hough, one of Cheshire’s premier wedding venues set on the Wirral. A sprawling Elizabethan style estate, Thornton Manor was first built in the mid 19th century and has been altered and extended in a number of phases since. From 1888 to the end of the 20th century the house was occupied by the Viscounts Leverhulme, reflected in the building’s grandeur; therefore there were an abundance of possibilities for a Thornton Manor wedding photographer.
Preparations took place in the Bridal Suite, Vicky dazzling in a Suzanne Neville gown. My role as a creative documentary photographer is to capture real moments unobtrusively, as they naturally unfold. Therefore, I had to blend in and be “one of the girls” at this stage!
Natural Wedding Photography
The ceremony took place in the early Georgian inspired Dining Room, with its incredible walnut paneling and plaster work. Despite its size and splendour, the space provided a welcoming, intimate setting. As we were well into the summer months, the doors were opened to reveal one of the spectacular lime tree avenues.
After tying the knot, the newlyweds and wedding guests headed outside. Despite the grandeur of the venue as a backdrop, the reception was very relaxed. The gods blessed us with good weather, and family and friends mingled over champagne and canapés on the front lawn. My day’s role as Thornton Manor wedding photographer certainly didn’t feel like work thanks to an angelic performance by pianist and singer Jennie Sawdon, during which I captured some informal family group photos. My favourite image is of the three adorable flower girls having a hard-earned sit down!
At the wedding breakfast in the main hall, a trio of talented singers — the Three Singing Waiters! — appeared like a flash mob with a thrilling operatic performance à la The Three Tenors. It was a wonderful surprise and something I’ve never encountered in all my time as a Thornton Manor wedding photographer.
Rain and Sunset
The couple took a stroll around the grounds at sunset to reflect and make the most of the rest of the natural right, sharing a kiss under the lime trees. The reason couples getting wed choose my services is that I rarely pose anyone; at most, I will ask them to linger in a spot for a few moments to make the most of our surroundings. As a result I produce natural photos. Vicky and Chris should have stayed under the lime trees because the heavens opened soon after. However, Vicky looks happy and relaxed despite the threat to her hair!
First Dance and Party
Guests gathered in the Music Room – the grandest of them all – to await the first dance with its spectacular wall paneling, carvings, elaborate plaster work and period paintings by Giovanni Cipriani. As if guests hadn’t already had their fix of entertainment, Regional Winner Band of the Year 2016 The Rush kicked off the evening party. The group is made up of musicians who have toured with the likes of Beyoncé and Take That, so they certainly knew how to put on a show. As if that wasn’t enough DJ Adam Carr hit the decks and as you can tell by the packed dance floor, everybody had a fantastic time.
Congratulations once again to Vicky and Chris on their marriage, and thank you for inviting me to capture you special day. Below you will find a selection of my favourite images from their gallery which I hope will prompt you to contact me if you’re in need of a Thornton Manor wedding photographer.