Wedding Welcombe Hotel
Dan and Beth's Big Wedding Day
Timeless Elegance: Dan & Beth’s Classic Wedding at The Welcombe Hotel
Dan and Beth’s special day at The Welcombe Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon was the epitome of traditional English elegance. A day filled with storied architecture, rolling Warwickshire hills, and a love story that felt both modern and timeless.
As a photographer, working at a venue like The Welcombe is a dream. The Neo-Jacobean building, with its towering gables and intricate stonework, provides a dramatic backdrop that requires very little “extra” to look spectacular.
Capturing Dan and Beth’s wedding was a true highlight for me this year. From the quiet moments to the big celebrations, they were a joy to work with every step of the way. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be their photographer and wish them a lifetime of happiness.
Go Above And Beyond
As always, I arrived about an hour early to go over my notes and prepare for the day ahead. It’s always a good idea to walk the grounds and remind myself of the best locations to capture bridal portraits.
Bridal Prep
As a wedding photographer, the day kicks off bright and early with bridal prep — capturing the magical chaos before the “I do’s”!
Upon arrival, I often start with beautifully styled detail shots — the dress hanging in natural light, shoes, rings, jewelry, perfume, invitation suite, and bouquet — to set the visual story of the day.
Next comes candid documentation of hair and makeup in progress, laughter with bridesmaids, champagne toasts, and emotional interactions.
The highlight is often when the bride is fully dressed, followed by bridal portraits, “first looks” with dad or the bridal party, and group shots full of joy and anticipation.
The Groom & Groomsmen
Capturing fun photos of the groom and groomsmen is all about letting their personalities shine, embracing the brotherhood, and adding playful energy to balance the formal shots. The best moments often come from candid laughter, silly poses, and creative twists that reflect the group’s vibe — whether that’s goofy antics or cool swagger.
First Look
Wedding Ceremony
Big Group Photo
There is something truly special about the big group photo. It’s the one moment where everyone who matters most is gathered in one place, sharing stories and laughter. It only takes a few minutes to capture, but these are the images we return to most—the ones that preserve our history and keep our favorite memories alive for years to come.
Confetti Time
Bridal Party Photos
Romantic Bridal Portraits
The Reception: The Welcombe Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Shakespeare’s country, The Welcombe Hotel stands as one of Warwickshire’s most prestigious retreats. This Grade II-listed neo-Jacobean mansion, set within 157 acres of lush parkland, seamlessly blends historic grandeur with modern luxury.
The couple and their guests enjoyed drinks on the terrace overlooking the manicured lawns and fountains, before moving into the elegant suites for a delicious wedding breakfast. The evening brought dancing, laughter, and sparkling toasts in rooms adorned with classic decor – the perfect end to a day steeped in tradition.
Outstanding Wedding Photos at the Welcombe Hotel
As planned, we made the most of the hotel’s magnificent dark oak staircase for some dramatic and elegant portraits – the rich wood tones and grand architecture created timeless images that Dan and Beth will treasure forever.
Romantic Bridal Portraits
The afternoon was dedicated to romantic couple portraits in the hotel’s breathtaking grounds. With the manor house as a majestic backdrop, soft natural light filtering through the trees, and the couple’s genuine affection shining through, these shots captured pure romance and joy.
Couples Portraits
I get to see some amazing wedding cakes
First Dance
Light Painting
I love working in low-light where I can use my imagination and create some unique wedding photos.
Dan and Beth, thank you for trusting me to document your day. Your love story, set against these iconic Warwickshire locations, was an absolute pleasure to capture. Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together!
This wedding was a beautiful reminder of why Stratford-upon-Avon remains a top choice for couples seeking a traditional yet romantic celebration. The historic charm of Holy Trinity Church paired seamlessly with the opulent grounds of The Welcombe Hotel, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re planning your own wedding in Stratford-upon-Avon or beyond, I’d love to hear from you – Get in Touch for more details on my photography packages.