When it comes to weddings, nothing compares to the charm and personal touch of a gorgeous DIY garden wedding. Recently, I had the privilege of photographing a stunning celebration that combined the natural beauty of a family garden with the classic elegance of a marquee. This wedding was not just a visual feast but a day filled with love, joy, and vibrant colours—an unforgettable experience for everyone involved, including me as a photographer.

Why Choose a DIY Garden Wedding?

DIY weddings are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s easy to see why. A DIY garden wedding allows you to personalise every aspect of your special day, from the decor to the menu. The family garden isn’t just a venue; it’s a space filled with memories, making the event even more intimate and meaningful. A garden setting offers the perfect blend of nature and nostalgia, providing a beautiful backdrop for your celebration.

The Marquee: A Timeless and Elegant Addition

One of the standout features of this wedding was the elegant marquee. Unlike other outdoor structures, a marquee adds a touch of sophistication to the event. Its spacious and adaptable design creates a comfortable environment that’s perfect for both the ceremony and the reception. Whether you’re hosting a summer garden wedding or an autumn gathering, a marquee provides a versatile and stylish backdrop that’s sure to impress your guests.

Colorful and Fun: A Day to Remember

This particular wedding was a riot of color and fun, which made it an absolute joy to photograph. From the vibrant flowers to the quirky DIY decor, every detail was bursting with personality. The couple’s playful spirit was evident in every aspect of the day, from the bright, mismatched bridesmaid dresses to the DIY photo booth that kept guests entertained throughout the evening.

As a wedding photographer, capturing these unique and candid moments is what I live for. The couple’s decision to incorporate so much color into their wedding made for some truly spectacular photos. The marquee, adorned with fairy lights and bunting, looked magical as the sun set, creating a perfect backdrop for evening portraits.

Tips for Planning Your Own DIY Garden Wedding

Planning a DIY garden wedding can be a lot of work, but with some careful planning, it’s entirely possible to create a day that’s both beautiful and stress-free. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Or find more weddings on the blog

The post A Gorgeous DIY Garden Wedding appeared first on Karl Chester, Manchester Wedding Photographer Best Suited For Relaxed, Fun, Alternative Bride & Grooms.

When it comes to planning your wedding, there are sooooooooo many venues to choose from. From grand country estates to private gardens, the options can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. And all we really want to do, is get married with as little fuss as possible. One venue that often gets overlooked is the local village hall. That’s probably not surprising. Some of them are a tad fugly and a little rough around the edges. I think that’s partly why I love a village hall so much! The potential these quirky venues have is mind blowing. Especially when a passionate bride or groom get their hands on unravelling the village hall’s potential to be something special. In this blog post, I’ll explain why choosing your local village hall for your wedding can be a great decision, especially when it comes to cost, decor, and FOOD!

Saving Money On A Wedding

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a village hall for your wedding is the cost. Traditional wedding venues, such as hotels or country estates, can be quite expensive. Especially when you add the pesky ‘wedding tax’. Not only do you have to pay for the venue itself, but you often also have to pay for catering, decorations, and other costs that can add up super quickly. On the other hand, village halls are typically run by local councils, so the cost to rent the space is much lower. This can be a great option for couples on a budget who still want a beautiful and memorable wedding.

Freedom To Do As You Choose

Another advantage of choosing a village hall is the freedom to decorate the space however you like. Many traditional wedding venues have strict rules about what you can and can’t do with the space. For example, some venues may not allow you to use certain types of decorations or may charge extra fees for certain services. With a village hall, you have much more freedom to create the wedding of your dreams. You can choose your own decorations, flowers, and other details to make the space truly your own.

One of the best things about getting married at a village hall is the freedom to choose your own wedding celebrant. Many venues require that you use their in-house wedding planner or officiant, which can be limiting. But with a village hall, you can choose the person who will be leading your ceremony. This is a great opportunity to select someone who you have a special connection with, whether it’s a family member, a close friend, or a professional celebrant. This makes your wedding ceremony more personal and meaningful.

FOOD, Sumptuous Food!

Another great thing about planning a village hall wedding, is the freedom to choose who caters for you and your wedding party. This can be a huge advantage over traditional venues where you are usually limited to using their in-house catering. With a village hall, you can choose your own caterer, which means you can select a company that specialises in the type of food you love. This also allows you to get a better price and to make sure the food is to your taste. Oh and lets not forget, many village halls wont charge you a corkage fee. So, you can stock up on your favourite drinks and supply them throughout the day without breaking the bank.

There are many reasons why you should consider getting married at your local village hall. Not only is it a cost-effective option, but it also gives you the freedom to decorate the space however you like, choose your own wedding celebrant, and select your own caterer. So, if you’re looking for a unique and affordable wedding venue, be sure to check out your local village hall!

A Real Local Village Hall Wedding In Photos

Here’s a wedding I photographed at the Mellor Parish Centre for Mike and Zoe. They planned their own village hall wedding celebration after getting married at their local church. As you can see, they were able to personalise the day to suit them. Without costing the earth.

Please enquire now if you are considering a village hall wedding. I’d love to be your photographer!

The post Why You Should Be Planning A Village Hall Wedding appeared first on Karl Chester, Manchester Wedding Photographer Best Suited For Relaxed, Fun, Alternative Bride & Grooms.

Hannah and Joe’s wedding at The Roman Lakes in Marple was a wedding photographer’s dream!

The Roman Lakes in Marple provided the perfect backdrop for their wedding. With its picturesque surroundings and tranquil atmosphere at the heart of Marple in Cheshire. Hannah and Joe were able to create a truly personalised and intimate event by planning their own DIY wedding. They worked closely with Tipi Unique and the staff at the Roman Lakes, Marple to create an unforgettable wedding day.

Hannah & Joe’s DIY Tipi wedding at The Roman Lakes, Marple

Tipi Unique was the perfect choice to provide the Tipi for Hannah and Joe’s wedding. They provided a gorgeous and unique tipi that was perfect for their outdoor wedding on a hot summer’s day. The team at Tipi Unique helped the couple to create a beautiful and unique setting for their special day, ensuring that every detail was perfect.

The couple’s hard work and attention to detail paid off, as the wedding was a huge success. Hannah’s eye for details clearly shows and with Joe being a craftsman he was able to hand make all the incredible pieces used for the day.  All the guests had such an amazing time. With many commenting on how beautiful and unique the setting was. They particularly enjoyed the fun and relaxed atmosphere. A touch of chaos/fun was added by the use of Enola Gaye smoke bombs and smoke grenades. Which also added a playful and interactive element to the day. Even if a few of the guests struggled to understand how they use them – HAHA.

Evening party by The Roman Lakes in Marple

As the evening drew to a close, all the guests danced to the wedding band late into the night, making it a truly unforgettable experience. Hannah and Joe’s wedding at The Roman Lakes in Marple was a truly magical event that they and their guests will remember for years to come. The couple’s hard work and attention to detail paid off, as the wedding was a huge success, and everyone had an amazing time. The day ended with a sweaty dancefloor packed full of loved ones and friends. They day couldn’t have been more perfect!

See more weddings one the Blog.

The post The Roman Lakes Wedding, Marple, Cheshire appeared first on Karl Chester, Manchester Wedding Photographer Best Suited For Relaxed, Fun, Alternative Bride & Grooms.

My hour or so spent driving north was nothing compared to Tom’s parents who flew in from Australia for their boy’s big day! They had spent many family holidays in Clitheroe and Tom had such fond memories of the area he couldn’t imagine getting married anywhere else. Luckily Rose agreed – she fell in love with the Inn at Whitewell as soon as she set eyes on it – and they planned a super relaxed wedding in the countryside. 

Weddings at The Inn at Whitewell

The Inn at Whitewell is the perfect spot for a wedding – or to enjoy an ale or two following a hike! Surrounded by picture perfect countryside and with views stretching for miles I can see why it was such a hit with Rose and Tom. 

Originally built as a manor house back in the 1300s it became an Inn around the 1700s and is now a hugely popular pub, hotel and wedding venue. I love how they’ve combined the rustic charm of the country pub with the wedding marquee, a blank canvas for couples meaning they can really put their own stamp on it. Tom and Rose, with the help of The Countryside Florist, had filled the marquee with cream florals and dark green foliage, it looked so good. 

Following their church wedding ceremony Tom, Rose and their guests made their way over to the Inn’s gardens, as the newly weds happily chatted away to their family and friends I captured all the smiles and laughter. I love these moments at a wedding reception, there’s always hugs, giggles and lots of fizz and beer which keeps everyone happy! 

Wedding photography in the Forest of Bowland

Whilst I’m primarily a documentary wedding photographer I do love stealing my couples away for a few moments during their wedding reception. It’s a great chance for them to enjoy some time together away from the crowd and that’s when I capture some beautiful portraits for them. Tom and Rose jumped into their wedding van (yes, really!) and we all drove up into the hills. We really wanted to make the most of the incredible fells and breathtaking scenery and soon found the perfect, secluded spot. Luckily the three of us are all big fans of walking and exploring the countryside but I kept in mind that Rose was in her (stunning!) Laure de Sagazan wedding dress and heels so didn’t want to have too big a trek! These two are so laid back and down to earth, they were just over the moon to be married and to be out enjoying the surroundings of the Inn at Whitewell, I think we could’ve spent hours out there but we had a party to get back to! 

Back at the Inn at Whitewell it was time to crack on with the celebrations. Tom and Rose had planned an evening do with a difference. There were some confused faces when guests were handed headphones but soon everyone donned a pair and got themselves ready for a silent disco! If you’ve not had chance to experience one of these then where have you been?! Everyone wears a set of headphones and picks from a number of different channels, each set to a different playlist. You could be bopping along to the Spice Girls while next to you your Auntie Barbara is rocking out to Queen! It makes for great photos – and yes, I got my own set of headphones of course! 

Tom and Rose had the fun filled, super chilled day they had been planning and I loved every minute. I can’t wait until I head back to the Inn at Whitewell for another wedding and in the meantime I’ll be taking my wife up there for some good food, excellent ale and a wander around the Forest! 

Check out some other gorgeous weddings on the blog.

The post The Inn at Whitewell Wedding Photography appeared first on Karl Chester, Manchester Wedding Photographer Best Suited For Relaxed, Fun, Alternative Bride & Grooms.

Whitebottom Farm

Having met Laura and Matt previously while photographing Matt’s brother’s wedding. I knew their Whitebottom Farm festival wedding was going to make for easy photography on the day. The day was planned to be jammed packed with FUN! Including, awesome wedding cars, tattoos, dogs, smoke bombs, glamping and DJ Adam Carr on the decks. But most important of all, friends and family having an absolute ball at Whitebottom Farm.

Also, If you dig the wedding cars in the photos. Be sure to check out Love Machines for your alternative wedding car.

From start to stop the Team at Whitebottom Farm went above and beyond to ensure that everyone had an amazing time celebrating the wedding of Laura and Matt. Above all, nothing was too much trouble for them. Whitebottom Farm hosts festival weddings with love and passion. Nestled in Etherow Country Park, Stockport, this wedding venue is hidden gem!

Whitebottom Farm – Festival Wedding Venue

In short would like to thank all Laura and Matt for the privilege that was being their wedding photographer. Everyone was so kind to me throughout the day. I really felt part of the wedding. It was so much fun being able to hang out with everyone and take documentary photos of you all.

Festival Wedding

In conclusion, If anyone is planning a festival wedding in Stockport, Cheshire. Don’t hesitate. JUST DO IT! You wont regret it. Weddings needn’t be super traditional. Just take a look at these photos to prove it. You can blend traditional with alternative festival wedding vibes. To make for a belter of a wedding day!

Check out some other gorgeous weddings on the blog.

The post Whitebottom Farm Festival Wedding Photography appeared first on Karl Chester, Manchester Wedding Photographer Best Suited For Relaxed, Fun, Alternative Bride & Grooms.

Firstly, an absolute belter of a day was had at Victoria Warehouse in Manchester, taking wedding photos, celebrating the wedding of Almas and Jens. I was super privileged to be part of the day. Taking wedding photos with all their family and friends.

Meanwhile, where to start with this incredible Manchester industrial chic wedding. Almas and Jens brought everything and more to this alternative Manchester wedding venue. Jens brought his close family and friends all the way from Germany. They of course brought along with them a touch of German wedding culture. Infused with Almas’ own British Muslim culture. Furthermore creating a wedding that celebrated the love of two people bringing together different cultures, traditions, nationalities, friends, and family.

A Wedding at The Alternative Industrial Manchester Wedding Venue

Undoubtedly Victoria Warehouse was the perfect setting for their multicultural wedding. Victoria Warehouse has seen a diverse wonder of people and cultures pass through Manchester for many years. It’s amazing to see the industrial buildings like Victoria Warehouse from Manchester’s past brought back to life. Especially when they make for fabulous, alternative and industrial wedding venues in Manchester like this one!

Victoria Warehouse / Wedding Photos

Above all, Almas and Jens had their heart set on a relaxed wedding day. Coupled with relaxed, fun, documentary, and alternative wedding photography. It was thrilling to oblige as I got to take wedding photos of them and a cool bunch of people celebrating at Victoria Warehouse. This ticks all the boxes for me. I loved every minute of the day. I had so much fun with all the guests and Victoria Warehouse team. All at such a super cool alternative Manchester wedding venue too!!!

To take a look at more gorgeous wedding photos and info about my wedding photography, please head over to my blog.

Furthermore, you can contact the amazing team about a Victoria Warehouse Wedding here.

The post Victoria Warehouse Wedding Photos appeared first on Karl Chester, Manchester Wedding Photographer Best Suited For Relaxed, Fun, Alternative Bride & Grooms.

Even the Beast from the East couldn’t stop these two Acid Brass badasses getting married! Winter was in full swing ‘to say the least’ at Stirk House for the winter wedding of Jo and Phil.

It’s not just the freezing weather that gives me goose bumps when thinking about Jo and Phil’s day. Knowing that many of their family and friends travelled far and wide through some of the toughest weather conditions the Northwest has seen in donkey’s years – doesn’t half give me goose bumps too. The love for Jo and Phil was truly in the air at Stirk House that day.

Perhaps I’m being a bit soppy. Perhaps it’s because it’s got me thinking back to my near death experience. On the way to Stirk House The Beast from the East nearly got the better of me as my car and I slid, spinning 360 degrees down a country lane. That pesky black ice!!! Fear not, I soldered on an arrived, to instantly be put at ease by the welcoming staff. One of the staff members is a bit of a legend in the wedding hospitality world. Some lucky couples will have the opportunity to have Dave ensure your day runs smoothly. He’s a true gent who works his socks off to make sure you have a smashing time.

Winter Wedding

The beauty about Stirk House is that even on a harsh winter’s day, the light in the ceremony room and the bridal suite is simply stunning. Sure it can be a little disappointing to have bad weather on your wedding day. If you do a little research and choose a great venue, the weather definitely can’t put a dampener on such a special occasion. Jo and Phil sure didn’t let the winter weather effect them. Usually I whisk couples off for a few minutes outside to take some modern un-posed portraits. It was a touch cold and wet on this occasion. This wasn’t a problem at all as there is a stunning backdrop inside the orangery.  Why not take a look see…

The post Stirk House Winter Wedding appeared first on Karl Chester, Manchester Wedding Photographer Best Suited For Relaxed, Fun, Alternative Bride & Grooms.

The wedding of Rosie and Michael at the Lake District wedding venue the Punch Bowl Inn was perfect from start to finish. To be totally honest, I knew it would be before I even arrived in the Lake District to begin taking their wedding photos.

You see, I initially met this incredible couple at a funky ale bar in Didsbury where we were set to have a meeting to discuss serious shizzle. We were soon chatting about good times. Particularly travel, as that is a big part of their lives. It turns out I had shared some of their travel adventures. Weirdly I’d partied in the very same nightclub that these two love birds met whilst in Budapest!

As far as meetings go, this one ranked high. I’d spent the evening sharing travel stories drinking tasty ale. I couldn’t wait to take Rosie and Michael’s wedding photos!

Punch Bowl Inn – Lake District Wedding Photography

The wedding definitely lived up to my expectations. This pair of Manchester lovers had the most incredibly relaxed and intimate wedding with all their closest family and friends at the Punch Bowl Inn. I was privileged to spend the day and night with them all! The wedding also affirmed something I already knew, Dr’s and nurses party hard!

For the camera lovers, this wedding was primarily shot with:
2 x Fujifilm X-pro 2 cameras. Mainly using the Fujifilm lenses 23mm f/1.4, 85mm f/1.2 and the Samyang 12mm f/2.

The post Rosie & Michael’s Lake District Wedding Photography – Punch Bowl Inn appeared first on Karl Chester, Manchester Wedding Photographer Best Suited For Relaxed, Fun, Alternative Bride & Grooms.

As a couple that appreciate a more informal approach to getting married they chose to get hitched at their local registry office with just a few family and friends present. After the registry wedding they went on to celebrate with a touching wedding blessing at Bert’s Barrow Farm in Hillam, Leeds. A dear friend of theirs carried out the service. Later on they threw one heck of a crazy party in the evening!

The evening reception was full of energy. With some incredible dance moves on display. The party rocked all night long! Spurred on by a good supply of real ale and a tipples of champagne. The band helped get the dance floor rocking too!

Bert’s Barrow Farm

Wedding Photography

Bert’s Barrow Farm is a venue for rustic, individual weddings.

Ian and Charlotte – are the owners of this fabulous place. They are the type of owners who go the extra mile for people they meet. Basically Ian and Charlotte are the type of people that invite you into their home on the farm for a tasty meal. A thoughtful first for me as a wedding photographer at any wedding venue. It certainly goes to show that Ian and Charlotte are hosting weddings because they love their job.

Polly and George decorated Bert’s Barrow Farm beautifully and added their own personal touches throughout the farm. Including a giant inflatable assault course!!! They may not be the fussy finicky type of people, without doubt: Polly and George sure know how to throw a great wedding!

Ultimately everything about the day was perfect! A laid back, relaxed wedding with great food, set in an amazing unique venue, surrounded by love, laughter, and most importantly brilliant people!

Consequently I had shed ton of fun all day and night.

So I would like to shout out a mahoosive thanks to all the staff at Bert’s Barrow Farm. Along with the caterers for such a tasty hog roast.

Hair stylist Lindsay Ward was amazing.

Above all, I would like to thank Polly and George Holingsworth for having me along for the day!

So maybe you are thinking booking a venue for your wedding, I would definitely consider Bert’s Barrow Farm. My feeling is, you won’t regret it!

Karl Chester Photography – Relaxed, natural and unique.

A lot like you!

Here is a few photos from the day for you to have a butchers at…

The post Bert’s Barrow Farm Wedding Photography – Polly & George appeared first on Karl Chester, Manchester Wedding Photographer Best Suited For Relaxed, Fun, Alternative Bride & Grooms.

So ‘what am I wittering on about’ you may be asking yourself?

I’m super lucky to be a wedding photographer – I get to travel to some stunning places and hang out with incredible brides, grooms and wedding guests. On the flip side it has crossed my mind that the more I travel, the more impact I’m having on this beautiful world.

If you are anything like me, you think this sucks!

Recently during a Handfasting ceremony in Dalby Forrest, the celebrant thanked Mother Nature for the beautiful setting we found ourselves in. Dalby Forest in Yorkshire sure did look stunning. The forest surrounding the tepees got me to thinking… it’s time to give something back!

Right get your sick bucket ready, OK, got it? For every wedding I book, I’ll be planting a tree. Hopefully that tree will flourish, a bit like the love for you and your new wife/hubby!

I’ll be honest, I’m not getting my spade out and planting these trees myself. It’s for the best, I promise! I’ve already started planting some trees and will continue to make donations to a charity that plants trees all over the world, in an effort to ease climate change and battle deforestation.

I’m super keen to do more where I can for the  environment. If you have an eco environmentally friendly wedding planned, it would be fab to hear about it! I’d especially like to hook up with couples who are conscious of the impact we are having on this beautiful word.

If you are looking for an environmentally conscious wedding photographer, drop me an email. It would be great to hear your thoughts!

The post Wedding photography for people who give a shit about this beautiful planet! appeared first on Karl Chester, Manchester Wedding Photographer Best Suited For Relaxed, Fun, Alternative Bride & Grooms.