Sunshine, big energy, and a whole lot of joy
I first met Becky and Matthew at a wedding fair at Rudding Park in March 2020 — back when the world still felt normal (remember that?!). Fast forward through lockdown chaos, postponements and all the unknowns… and their wedding day finally arrived.
And honestly? It was worth every second of the wait.
This was one of those weddings that just felt good from start to finish. Big guest list, loads of energy, and the kind of atmosphere where you could tell everyone there genuinely loved being part of it.
They told me it would be a big wedding with lots of guests and that it would be a lively party, and they were not kidding. Plus the sun shone all day and the gardens were in full bloom – an absolute joy for any Rudding Park wedding photographer!
Why Rudding Park is such a dream wedding venue
If you’re planning a wedding at Rudding Park, I get it.
It’s one of those venues that just delivers on every level — stunning interiors, beautifully kept grounds, and space to actually breathe (which is underrated on a wedding day).
From a photography point of view, it’s an absolute gift:
- Gorgeous gardens that change with the seasons
- Loads of variety for couple portraits (without trekking miles)
- Light everywhere — which makes SUCH a difference in your photos
- Space for big weddings without it feeling chaotic
And yes… the spa. Not strictly photography-related, but very much a vibe.
A wedding morning that set the tone
This was a big wedding (we’re talking 150+ guests), which meant one thing — coverage matters.
Having a second photographer meant we could properly tell the full story of the morning. Both sides. Both energies. All the little moments that would otherwise get missed.
Because your wedding isn’t just about the two of you — it’s about your people too.
And those are the photos you end up caring about most.
The ceremony: joyful, emotional, and full of personality
Their ceremony took place at St Mark’s Church in Harrogate, and it was one of those that had everything — emotion, laughter, and a proper sense of occasion.
Also… unexpected throwback moment: Lord of the Dance making an appearance.
Iconic.
The light streaming through the church gave me so much to play with — and if you’ve read any of my stuff before, you’ll know I’m always chasing good light (especially in Yorkshire where it’s not always guaranteed 😅).
Confetti chaos (aka my favourite part of the day)
There is no such thing as too much confetti.
Becky and Matthew absolutely proved that.
Buckets of dried petals, guests fully committing, and that split-second chaos that makes for the BEST photos — this is the stuff that brings your gallery to life.
It’s not staged. It’s not perfect. It’s just pure joy.
Rudding Park portraits (without the awkwardness)
The gardens at Rudding Park were doing their thing — rhododendrons in full bloom, colour everywhere, and loads of options depending on the light.
And this is where my approach really comes into play.
Yes, we’ll take beautiful couple portraits.
But no, I’m not going to leave you standing there wondering what to do with your hands.
It’s guided, relaxed, and built around you being you — which is exactly why the photos feel natural rather than staged.
The wedding breakfast: big energy, big emotions
With around 170 guests, the room was full — and you could feel it.
Speeches that had everyone laughing one minute and tearing up the next.
That buzz you only get when all your favourite people are in one place.
These are the moments that matter.
Not just how it looked… but how it felt.
Golden hour magic (when it happens… we GO)
Golden hour isn’t guaranteed in the UK. Let’s be honest.
But when it shows up? We’re out.
We snuck away for a second set of couple portraits in that soft, dreamy light — and it was so worth it. The kind of photos that feel a little bit magic without trying too hard.
Dancefloor energy done right
From emotional moments to absolute party mode — this wedding had range.
Live music, a packed dancefloor, and the kind of energy that makes you forget you’re technically “working”.
This is what I love most about weddings like this.
They’re not about perfection.
They’re about people, connection, and letting go a bit.
Planning your own Rudding Park wedding?
If you’re thinking about getting married at Rudding Park and you want:
- Photos that feel natural, not staged
- Someone who knows how to handle big, busy weddings
- A mix of real moments AND beautifully guided portraits
…I might just be your person.
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