Ruth & David – A Beautiful Sandburn Hall Wedding Filled with Love, Laughter & Golden Light

Fiona Bielby
4 days ago
3 min read

From vows at Setterington Church to cowboy hats and glow sticks at Sandburn Hall, Ruth & David’s wedding was joyful, heartfelt, and full of personality — the kind of day that’s a dream to photograph.

Bride and groom walking out of Setterington Church after winter wedding ceremony in North Yorkshire

A Crisp Winter Ceremony at Settrington Church

The day began with a gentle glow of winter sunshine and the warmth of family and friends gathered at Settrington Church. The ceremony was full of smiles and quiet emotion, a truly beautiful moment shared with those closest to them. From the very first look between Ruth and David to the natural moments that unfolded throughout the morning, it was a reminder of why I love my work as a documentary wedding photographer, it’s about capturing the real stuff, the meaningful glances and the quiet joy.

Sandburn Hall , A Yorkshire Wedding Venue Full of Character

After the ceremony, everyone headed to the stunning Sandburn Hall a wedding venue just outside York. In its picture-perfect setting, surrounded by rolling fairways and golden woodland. Ruth and David had clearly poured so much love into planning a celebration that felt thoughtful, relaxed, and truly them.

Each guest was greeted with hot chocolate favours, beautifully styled tables, and thoughtful little touches throughout the day.

Not to mention, Ruth's wedding cake made by herself truely. Three incredible tiers: carrot, lemon, and a vanilla and chocolate combo. Their guests were spoilt for choice… and I can confirm the lemon was absolutely delicious.

Three-tier homemade wedding cake with lemon, carrot, vanilla, and chocolate layers

Magic, Golden Hour & Candid Moments

After a relaxed meal and some brilliant speeches, the wonderful Mark Waddington (a first class magician) brought the room to life with his tricks. The perfect way to keep the celebrations flowing and everyone entertained needless to say no one notice we'd gone for photos, let me tell you more...

Mark Waddington performing his tricks at Sandburn Hall Wedding

Guest shocked and surprised by Mark Waddington performing his tricks at Sandburn Hall Wedding

Magician Mark Waddington performing his tricks at Sandburn Hall Wedding

Guests laughing at magician Mark Waddington performing his tricks at Sandburn Hall Wedding

Guest holding out hand and laughing during a Mark Waddington performance at Sandburn Hall Wedding

As if the day hadn’t been golden enough already, the golden hour hit. We took a little time away to make the most of it, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The light, the quiet, the connection between Ruth and David all the ingredients for the kind of portraits I hope to take, I especially loved Ruth's jacket.

A First Dance to Remember

As the sun set and the party kicked off, guests were handed glow sticks and cowboy hats, and the dancefloor quickly filled especially with all the little people.

Their first dance- Ordinary by Alex Warren. I can confirm; however, it was anything but. Ruth and David had learnt a full routine together, practising it in their living room in the lead-up to the big day.

Their energy, their commitment, and their joy lit up the room.

Bride and groom performing choreographed first dance to Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” at Sandburn Hall

Ruth & David, Thank You

Ruth and David, thank you for letting me be part of your story. Your Sandburn Hall wedding was a true joy to photograph, full of laughter, love, and light. From heartfelt vows to surprise dance routines and everything in between, your day was unforgettable.

Witness their story below.

Planning your own Sandburn Hall wedding?

If you're looking for a North Yorkshire wedding photographer who specialises in candid wedding photos and a relaxed, documentary style, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s tell your story, naturally, beautifully, and with all the moments that matter.