Hannah & Chris’ wedding at New Craven Hall was one of those fun-loving, joy-filled celebrations that perfectly reflects what I love most about documentary wedding photography — real emotions, unpredictable moments and people just being themselves.
Nestled in the heart of Leeds city centre, New Craven Hall is a unique industrial-luxe wedding venue with exposed brick, moody lighting and tons of character — the perfect backdrop for modern, personalised weddings.
About the Couple
Hannah and Chris had been together for years and share a beautiful life with their son, Alex. Because I used to work with Hannah, being invited to capture their wedding felt extra special — it was like witnessing a good friend’s big life moment.
Their day was originally planned earlier but postponed due to COVID, which only made the celebration sweeter when it finally arrived.
Ceremony Details
The day began with a heart-felt ceremony at their local church, St Andrews at Netherton, where emotion was high and candid moments were everywhere — from the end-of-aisle reactions to quiet family interactions.
Why New Craven Hall Was the Perfect Venue
New Craven Hall brings together raw warehouse style and warm, romantic atmosphere — blending exposed brick, metal beams and fairy lights into a venue that’s equal parts cool and inviting.
➡️ Industrial-chic with a modern edge — ideal for couples who want a wedding that feels unique and memorable.
➡️ Licensed for ceremonies and receptions — so you can capture a seamless story from vows to dancing under the same roof.
➡️ Flexible, bespoke weddings — couples can fully personalise their day with custom styling and layout options.
The terrace offered a fantastic backdrop for portraits and group shots, and the cosy outdoor seating area with heaters meant guests could mingle comfortably even in the autumnal air.
Party Time — Undercover Waiters Bring the House Down
One of the most unforgettable parts of the day was the entertainment from The Undercover Waiters — a group blending in as staff before surprising everyone with live performances once dinner was done. The reactions were priceless and gave me so many incredible candid images.
My top tips for dual venue weddings
- Plan Photo Flow Ahead of Time — Decide in advance where you’ll take your couple portraits and group photos so the day doesn’t feel rushed.
- Think About Transport — If you’re moving between venues, make sure guests know the plan so no one is left wondering where to go next.
- Give Guests Clear Info — Let people know where the after-ceremony celebrations are happening to avoid delays.
- Add Extra Time for Photos — Especially if parking or logistics could take longer than expected.
A day filled with love and laughter
The story of Hannah and Chris’ wedding — from emotional vows to an epic party — is exactly why I love capturing weddings that are real, joyful and unfiltered. If you’re dreaming of a day that’s full of personality and heart (and want someone to capture it all), let’s chat! 🙌
