A midsummer wedding at Middleton Lodge’s Main House.
This Middleton Lodge wedding was one of those days that reminds you why weddings matter. Big feelings, brilliant music, reunited families and a whole lot of joy — all set against one of the most beautiful wedding venues in North Yorkshire.
Hannah and Jake’s day was elegant without being stiff, emotional without being heavy, and full of the kind of laughter that comes from people who’ve waited a long time to all be in the same place.
A love story with a few hurdles (and a very happy ending)
Hannah (British) and Jake (American) met while travelling back in 2012. Life took them in different directions, but by 2015 they found their way back to each other — and then set about making a transatlantic relationship actually work. No small feat.
Like so many couples, Covid threw a massive spanner in the works. Their wedding plans were postponed, and at one point Hannah and Jake were separated on different continents. Add in uncertainty around whether Jake’s family would even be able to travel, and it was an emotional rollercoaster right up until the final couple of weeks.
When the green light finally came through and this Middleton Lodge wedding was officially happening? You could feel the relief — and the excitement.
Why Middleton Lodge is such a dream wedding venue
If you’re planning a Middleton Lodge wedding, you’ll already know how special it is. Set just outside Richmond in North Yorkshire, the estate offers three distinct wedding spaces — and Hannah and Jake chose the stunning Main House.
Think: elegant rooms, beautiful light, manicured gardens and a relaxed-but-refined atmosphere that works brilliantly for documentary wedding photography.
Wedding morning vibes
Hannah got ready with her nearest and dearest, with hair and makeup by Chrys Chapman HMUA, and wore an absolutely timeless Jenny Packham beaded gown (one of those dresses that moves beautifully and photographs like a dream).
The morning had that perfect mix of nerves and excitement — quiet moments, deep breaths, and lots of smiling through emotion. Meanwhile, the groomsmen were discovered in the bar (as you’d expect), so we snuck in a few relaxed shots while final touches were happening upstairs.
No forced moments. Just real ones unfolding.
An emotional ceremony at Middleton Lodge
The British weather had other ideas about an outdoor ceremony, so vows were exchanged in the Drawing Room — and honestly, it couldn’t have been more perfect.
Handwritten vows, readings from family members, a sand ceremony, and so many brilliant reactions and expressions (my favourite thing to photograph). It was intimate, emotional, and completely centred on what mattered: the people in the room.
Confetti, group photos & proper reunions
When I asked Hannah what they most wanted to remember from their wedding day, she said:
“Smiling and laughter after a very difficult year where we were unable to see Jake’s family for 18 months — it’s going to be a huge reunion and very intimate.”
And that’s exactly what it was.
Confetti flying, hugs that lingered a little longer, and group photos that felt relaxed and genuinely fun. Yes, I absolutely photograph group shots — but I keep them streamlined and full of personality so you can actually enjoy that part of the day too.
Just the two of them
Portrait time was kept simple and easy. No long disappearance, no awkward posing — just Hannah and Jake wandering the gardens of Middleton Lodge, clouds threatening rain but holding off just long enough.
That dress. That light. Those “we’re finally married” smiles. Magic.
The marquee, the speeches & the party
The wedding breakfast took place in Middleton Lodge’s contemporary marquee — laid back, beautifully styled, and filled with clinking glasses and heartfelt speeches.
Live music followed (I will always champion live bands at weddings), with Truly Medley Deeply absolutely smashing it and getting everyone involved from the first beat.
Cake came courtesy of Where The Ribbon Ends — and yes, I can confirm through extensive research that it tastes as good as it looks.
From a choreographed first dance to full-on throwing shapes, this dancefloor did not disappoint. One of those nights where you glance at the clock and think, ah… I should probably go home now.
Planning a Middleton Lodge wedding?
If you’re getting married at Middleton Lodge and looking for a North Yorkshire wedding photographer who focuses on real moments, big feelings and relaxed storytelling — I’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch here to check availability and chat about your plans.
