Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, July 2023
The Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield was the back drop for this stunning wedding of Jo & Graham, where we had to battle the weather on the day but we won!
The day began when I met Jo, her mum and bridesmaids, and we all had a chat about the upcoming day before they started getting ready. I then went to meet Graham who was sitting in the bar area with family, relaxed as can be with a coffee and we spoke about the plans for the day ahead to settle some last minute nerves! I then had a stroll around the stunning venue and set up my cameras before heading back to Jo, where the preparations were in full swing, even the Prosecco had been opened!!
I started by taking a few images of Jo’s dress and other details. Everyone was really relaxed, even when Jo’s niece opened the Champagne… With a wedding dress hanging only a few feet away!! However, all was good. After an hour or so, I then decided to see what Graham was up to. The self-confessed Marvel fan had just finished getting ready and there must have been something in that coffee as he had nerves like Iron Man ha ha and clearly couldn’t wait to see his bride to be in a few hours time. We had a walk outside and met with his groom’s party and grabbed a few photo opportunities before I headed back up to Jo who was now looking stunning in her dress and all bridesmaids in their dresses ready to go. I then took the opportunity to have Jo’s Dad enter the room moments later to see his daughter for the first time in her dress. That was it, the whole room filled with emotion as Jo’s Dad was bursting with pride. I’m sure I had dust in my eyes at that moment also!
After everyone had recomposed, I headed down to the ceremony room where I found Graham, rearing to go with his best man and brother, both chilled to the bone. That was until he saw Jo, who followed his two daughters down the aisle. I think he also had the same dust in his eyes that I had!!
After a stunning ceremony and guests having time to congratulate the newly weds, we headed outside for some group photos and portraits, until the heavens opened that was! After only one photo, we headed back inside for cover where Jo, Graham and their guests enjoyed drinks until the weather passed.
So, take two for the outside shots! This time we finished the group photos, and with the weather now onside, I took the opportunity to get a couple of photos with my drone.
Graham, Jo and I then walked round the grounds for around half an hour having some time together whilst also allowing the newly weds time to enjoy their stunning surroundings. Next up it was time to hit the BBQ style buffet and Graham treated to me to a much welcomed beer.
Then the party really started going. After some speeches and the cake cut, the dance floor never stopped! Their family and friends had definitely not forgotten their dancing shoes! After over an hour of partying, we headed back outside to see the stunning sunset that had blessed them on their special day.
You guys were the best all day, it was a joy to capture your wedding! I honestly felt like I was a guest, not the photographer. I wish you both the very best for your future.
Enjoy your sneak peek blog…
