Arley Hall Wedding Photographer – Saskia & James

wedding couple in the library of arley hall

Arley Hall Wedding Full of Personality

Saskia and James’ wedding at Arley Hall and Gardens was pure magic from start to finish. I had photographed an Arley Hall wedding a few years previous to this, and had been dreaming of going back ever since. The venue is one of the most beautiful stately homes in the North West, and as a photographer who loves historic architecture and dreamy gardens, it is an absolute gift to work at.

If you don’t know already, Arley Hall was where they filmed a lot of Peaky Blinders, as the house was Tommy Shelby’s house in the show. The library was what he used as his office, and as a big fan of the programme I always get pretty excited when I get to photograph in there!

Their ceremony took place in the chapel tucked behind the hall, which is such a romantic and intimate space. Saskia looked incredible in a pure silk dress from Reformation that moved so beautifully in the light. The fabric gave the whole look a soft vintage feel that suited the setting perfectly. I was also completely obsessed with her veil and her iconic Maison Valentino shoes.

Creative Details and Playful Styling

One of my favourite styling moments was their banner inspired by Anthony Burrill that read YOU and ME ME and YOU, created by Tara Collette. I photograph the famous mural in Leeds all the time, so seeing it reimagined as part of a wedding day was such a fun surprise.

The tables were styled with gorgeous florals alongside fruits like grapes, pears and even avocados, which gave everything a rich, abundant feel. Their table plan was displayed on individual sheets in front of vases, which looked so stylish and modern. All of the stationery from Northern Printing Co was stunning, including a treasure hunt around the hall filled with trivia about the couple. It was such a fun way to get guests exploring and chatting.

Glasshouses, Gardens and an Epic Party

If you know me, you know I have a soft spot for glasshouses and botanical gardens, so discovering the glasshouse at Arley Hall made my day. Naturally, we had to take full advantage for portraits among all the greenery. It felt like a secret garden moment tucked into an already breathtaking venue.

The whole day ran beautifully thanks to an incredible team of suppliers, and the evening celebrations brought the energy right up. From emotional moments in the chapel to laughter in the gardens and a packed dance floor later on, this Arley Hall wedding had everything. I had the best time capturing it all, even though I had almost no voice left, and I would be back there in a heartbeat.

Where do we begin, the day was truly amazing from start to finish and we are so so happy you were the one there to capture that. The pictures are stunning (don’t worry, we never doubted you for a minute!) but I want you to know how beautiful they are.

James and I have always been famously very awkward individuals and I just want to say how absolutely amazing and lovely you and Georgia are. You put us so at ease, almost like we were chatting with a couple of mates – we couldn’t have asked for anything more perfect.

Thank you so much, I feel like words aren’t enough to express how happy we are with your photos!

– Saskia & James