Nicola & Chris

What a way to kick off the 2023 wedding season! Chris & Nicola’s big day saw us back at the incredible Cider Mill Barns. This stunning venue is on the border of Stratford-Upon-Avon and the Cotswolds and really is one of the most impressive locations to host your wedding. With so much gorgeous indoor and outdoor space, it’s perfect.

Nicola prepped for the big day with her three lovely bridesmaids at the venue’s impressive bridal suite. We had lots of fun with these ladies as they got ready for the ceremony. Nicola’s Dad was speechless when he walked in and saw her for the first time in her dress – she really did look so stunning.

Chris and his groomsmen arrived looking super dapper in navy suits and tan brogues. Button holes that matched the girls’ bouquets and awesome pocket watches finished off the look perfectly!

The barns had been beautifully decorated. A lot had been handmade by the couple themselves – including a wooden, hexagonal ring box, a pallet welcome sign and a quirky record player guestbook for their loved ones to sign.

Their nearest and dearest arrived at the barns and took their seats ready for the big moment. With live musicians performing, it wasn’t long before Chris got to see his beautiful bride walking down the aisle, proudly accompanied by her father. The ceremony itself was full of love and smiles – before we knew it they were both walking hand in hand back up the aisle having tied the knot! Their guests couldn’t wait to get the party started, beginning with a crazy confetti tunnel where Chris & Nicola just about survived!

Whilst guests explored the gorgeous grounds and enjoyed a drink, we had lots of fun with the bridal party and groomsmen, before stealing the bride and groom for the all important portraits. It’s such a lovely time having just tied the knot to escape for a few minutes and spend some time together.

As the drinks reception came to an end, everyone made their way inside for the wedding breakfast and boy it didn’t fail to impress! With guests truly full, they were then entertained by the speeches – full of love and the perfect balance of humour, all three smashed it!

We were even spoilt with a little bit of a sunset – we popped outside and made the most of the gorgeous, low spring sunshine, it’s one of our favourite parts of a wedding! The evening partying continued seamlessly with the new Mr & Mrs Sambell cutting the cake before heading on to the dance floor. Their guests couldn’t wait to join them and throw their best shapes late into the night.

After a cheeky little sparkler photo, we couldn’t resist showing off with one of our signature evening photos in the venue’s incredible ‘hobbit’ door – it’s such a cool feature!

Chris & Nicola, thanks for having us there to capture your incredible wedding! Here’s to a married life full of beautiful memories.