A Country House Full of Character

One of the lovely things about Broadoaks is the contrast between its interiors and gardens.

Inside, you'll find rich wood panelling, decorative details and rooms full of personality. Outside, mature trees, open lawns and quiet garden spaces provide a completely different feel.

It's this variety that makes the venue particularly interesting from a photography perspective.

The wedding dress hanging against one of the beautiful windows was a perfect example. The intricate detailing of the gown worked wonderfully with the character of the room.

And one of my favourite photographs from the morning was a little girl looking up at the dress hanging above her. A simple, unplanned moment that says far more than an elaborate setup ever could.

The Ceremony - Where the Real Moments Happen

There's something lovely about photographing a ceremony when everyone is completely caught up in the moment.

The exchange of rings, the little glances between the couple and, of course, that first kiss.

For me, these are the photographs that matter most.

Broadoaks offers several ceremony settings, including its contemporary Garden Room, elegant Orangery and outdoor ceremony space.

The ceremony I photographed had beautiful natural light coming through the room, creating some lovely opportunities to capture the couple and their guests.

My approach during this part of the day is simple: stay unobtrusive, anticipate the moments and let everything happen.

Relaxed Wedding Portraits in the Gardens

One of my favourite features of Broadoaks is its gardens.

You don't need to travel anywhere or spend ages searching for a location. There are lovely spots just a short walk from the house.

The wooden swing beneath the trees is particularly charming, and it gave us one of my favourite portraits from this wedding — the bride sitting with her bouquet while the groom stood behind her, the two sharing a smile.

We also made use of the lawns and pathways for a few relaxed walking photographs.

Nothing complicated. Just a little direction when needed, some beautiful light and the couple enjoying a few minutes together.

That's always my aim with wedding portraits: photographs that look considered and beautiful but still feel comfortable and personal.

Wedding Photography That Feels Like You

Every couple is different, and your wedding photographs should reflect that.

Some couples love a little editorial styling. Others simply want to enjoy their day and have everything captured as it happens.

I like to bring the two together.

The important moments are photographed as they unfold, while portraits are given just enough direction to make the most of the light, surroundings and composition.

At Broadoaks, that approach works particularly well. There's enough variety around the venue to create a beautiful collection of images without turning your wedding day into a lengthy photoshoot.

And sometimes the photographs with the most personality are the simplest ones - like a bride lifting her dress to reveal her trainers.

Why Broadoaks Is Such a Lovely Lake District Wedding Venue

If you're considering Broadoaks Country House for your wedding, there are a few things that make it particularly appealing.

Its location near Windermere gives you the beauty of the Lake District, while the exclusive-use setting offers a more private, personal celebration.

There's also a choice of indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, beautiful accommodation and plenty of opportunities for photographs throughout the grounds.

From a photographer's point of view, it's the combination of character, light and accessible outdoor spaces that makes Broadoaks stand out.

And because everything can happen in one location, there's more time to enjoy your wedding rather than travelling between venues.