Nicola and George’s Abbeywood Estate Wedding: A Day of Love and Laughter
As an experienced wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of working at a variety of beautiful venues, but Abbeywood Estate holds a special place in my heart. Nestled in the heart of Cheshire, Abbeywood Estate is a tranquil oasis that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and elegant charm. So, when Nicola and George asked me to capture their special day at this stunning location, I knew it was going to be a wedding to remember.
A Love Story That Began Online
Nicola and George’s love story is one that’s become increasingly common in today’s digital age—they met on Match. After getting to know each other online, it wasn’t long before their connection blossomed into something truly special. Fast forward to their second anniversary, and George decided it was the perfect time to propose. This romantic milestone set the stage for a wedding day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments at Abbeywood Estate.
Morning Preparations: A Mix of Excitement and Tranquillity
The morning of the wedding was filled with anticipation as both Nicola and George prepared for the day ahead. Nicola got ready in the bridal preparations room, surrounded by her closest friends and family. Her look for the day was nothing short of timeless—she wore a vintage scoop-neck dress she sourced on eBay, complete with a modest train that added a touch of elegance. Her hair and makeup were expertly done by Hannah Gill MUA, who created a natural yet polished look that perfectly complemented Nicola’s classic style.
Meanwhile, George was getting ready in Room No. 4 with his groomsmen. The atmosphere was relaxed, but there was a palpable sense of excitement in the air. Dressed in smart grey suits from Moss Bros, George and his groomsmen looked sharp and ready to celebrate the day ahead.
The Ceremony: A Heartfelt Celebration
The ceremony was held in the conservatory, and it was a beautiful blend of personal touches and emotional moments. What made this day even more special was that it fell on Nicola’s Mum’s birthday, adding an extra layer of significance to the celebrations. Both Mothers were honoured with delivering readings during the ceremony, creating a touching and emotional atmosphere that left few dry eyes in the room.
After the vows were exchanged, the newlyweds were greeted with a joyful shower of confetti inside the conservatory. This vibrant and lively moment was a perfect way to transition from the ceremony to the reception, and it made for some fantastic photos that captured the pure joy of the day.
Capturing the Beauty of Abbeywood Estate
One of the highlights of photographing weddings at Abbeywood Estate is the opportunity to take advantage of its stunning grounds. After the ceremony, I took Nicola and George for a stroll around the estate to capture some couple’s portraits. The venue’s lush gardens and picturesque views provided the perfect backdrop for these intimate moments. The natural beauty of the surroundings, combined with the couple’s obvious connection, made for some truly magical shots.
As the evening approached, we took advantage of the golden hour to capture some more portraits around the property. The soft, warm light created a romantic atmosphere that was simply breathtaking. These evening portraits are some of my favourites, as they showcase both the love between Nicola and George and the stunning location of Abbeywood Estate.
The Reception: A Colourful and Joyful Celebration
The conservatory was transformed for the reception, with vibrant floral arrangements in shades of pink, blue, and purple. These stunning flowers were created by the on-site florist, using cuttings from the estate’s own gardens. The combination of greenery and colourful blooms created a lively and welcoming atmosphere that perfectly suited Nicola and George’s personalities.
The reception was filled with heartfelt and thoughtful speeches, each one celebrating the couple’s journey and the love they share. It was clear that Nicola and George are surrounded by friends and family who care deeply for them, and this was reflected in every word spoken.
As the night progressed, the dance floor quickly became the place to be. Nicola and George shared their first dance to “This Will Be” by Natalie Cole, a fun and upbeat choice that set the tone for the rest of the evening. The dance floor was packed all night, with guests of all ages joining in the fun. The joy and energy in the room were contagious, making for some incredible photos that truly captured the spirit of the celebration.
The Venue: Abbeywood Estate’s Serene Charm
Abbeywood Estate was the couple’s venue of choice, and it’s easy to see why. The estate is known for its serene, calming atmosphere and breathtaking grounds, which made it the perfect backdrop for Nicola and George’s wedding. The couple chose to hold both their ceremony and reception in the estate’s stunning conservatory. With its glass walls and lush greenery, the conservatory offered a light-filled space that beautifully reflected the couple’s vision for a relaxed and elegant celebration.
A Second Dress for the Evening
One of the surprises of the evening was when Nicola changed into a fun and more relaxed evening dress. This change in attire signalled the transition from the formalities of the day to the party atmosphere of the evening. The new dress was perfect for dancing and added an extra layer of excitement to the night.
Final Thoughts from the Newlyweds
When asked for advice for future couples planning their wedding, both Nicola and George had valuable insights to share. George’s advice was straightforward: “Try not to sweat the small stuff—the day will go with a blur, and all the minute little bits of trim you might worry about leading up to the day just won’t matter (that’s the groom’s opinion anyway!).” It’s a reminder that, while planning is important, it’s the love and joy of the day that truly matters.
Nicola, on the other hand, offered this wisdom: “If you don’t find the dress you love straight away, keep searching—it will be worth it!” Her perseverance paid off when she found her perfect vintage dress on eBay, proving that the right dress is out there if you keep looking.
A Perfect Day at Abbeywood Estate
Nicola and George’s wedding at Abbeywood Estate was a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. The serene and calming atmosphere of the venue provided the perfect setting for their celebration, while the thoughtful details and personal touches made the day uniquely theirs. As an Abbeywood Estate wedding photographer, it was an absolute joy to capture the beauty and emotion of this special day.
If you’re planning your own wedding at Abbeywood Estate and are looking for a photographer who can capture both the big moments and the little details that make your day special, I’d love to be a part of your journey. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and I’m here to ensure that every moment is captured beautifully, so you can relive the memories for years to come. Get in touch with me here to discuss all your plans!