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Kennels Farm is just outside of Malton, it’s Adam’s family home where: He and his three siblings grew up; his sister got married back in 2009 and it is now his and Vicky’s home. After proposing to Vicky at the top of the Alps on a skiing holiday, this was the place both he and she knew would be the perfect for their wedding day. Adam’s a farmer and Vicky a P.E teacher, so it’s a given that, they enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, both together with their dog Eric and for their jobs too. With Adam farming the land since he was a young lad and Vicky enjoying their acres to ride and exercise her horses, they knew exactly where they should have their photos. They knew where the sun would be at specific times of the day; which made capturing their wedding portraits an absolute breeze, because the light was just as we needed. Something they both talked about before the day, was having their home in the background of these photos, their home is a beautiful Tudor farm house and is close to their hearts. They got married at Westow Church, just a few miles away from the farm; with the church being part of what would have been a tiny hamlet, the building provides little parking, so to overcome any grid-lock issues, they arranged for all the guests to meet at the farm prior to the ceremony, where they could hitch a ride on the back of a tractor-in a trailer. This was quite the talking point before the wedding and something both Adam and Vicky were really excited about, but also something they wouldn’t be able to be part of, so I agreed to hop on board and join their guests on what was a much smoother, but grippingly faster journey than I ever expected. It was a lot of fun though! There was one big surprise these two had in store for all their guest, in fact the surprise has caused them to move their wedding from the Saturday to the Friday. Quite the move hey! When Vicky got in touch, she just asked to move and I had no idea why that could be, she told me they’d secured a Saxophone player and she sent me a link to her website. Ellie Sax, I’m dreadful with names and had never heard of her, but she looked pretty cool on her website, she got the party going and I had to believe that if these two were prepared to move their entire day for this girl, she had to be more than pretty cool. Nothing could have prepared myself or the guests for what was coming, there was much whispering and then a girl flitting in and out from behind the marquee in funky green harem pants and chunky pink boots. You could see the guests looking and wondering who she was. Finally, the hidden curtain flew up at the back of the marquee, the DJ began gathering everyone for the first dance and the confetti cannons burst open, up in to the lights above, creating the most magical moment for all to see. (I 100% recommend you get confetti cannons for you first dance now, btw!) As everyone took it in, out she came, Sax in hand complete with the most incredible sequin hat and pink tassels flying everywhere- the party began. The dance floor exploded with guests piling in from every direction and everyone cramming together, getting anywhere near Ellie was nigh-on-impossible, so much so, I was lifted on the shoulders of my husband (who was a guest) where I was able to get some pretty awesome shots. Take a look at their day from start to end, there was so much more to it than the party, not only was it full of some great people, who I’ve worked with so regularly now, they’re fast becoming friends, Adam saved a sheep, we got the most incredible sunset and I got to capture the whole thing. Apart from him saving to sheep because to begin with we weren't sure if it was having a fit or was just stuck on it's back. 🤦🏻‍♀️🙈 Thankfully, the later. CREDITS TO SUPPLIERS Photos: Fiona @ Anoif Photography | Dress: Bridal Studio, Malton | Flowers: Simple Foliage | Marquee: Florida Marquees | Cake: Louise Hodsman | Food- Janet Fairweather

St Mary's Church is fast becoming one of my local haunts, with probably over half of my local, church weddings being in this beautiful building. I can see why Bex and Joe (and indeed the many, other happy couples) chose St Mary's Church for their wedding, with it's incredibly, beautiful stone, exterior along with it's ambient-lit inner space with grand wooden doored entrance. When Bex and Joe first got in touch with me, their email went pretty much like this... "Hi there, We are getting married on 20th May 2023 and wondered if you were available? You’ve done a few weddings we have been to and always like the natural look of your photos! The wedding will be at Old Malton church with the reception will be a barn or marquee at the families yard where a pony or two may make an appearance along with two labradors (if they all behave)! Look forward to hearing from you. Many thanks, Bex and Joe" You all know how much I love animals, especially horses and dogs! This to me, was THE dream enquiry. I love it when couples have seen my work or have been at a wedding I've captured in the past; this in my eyes, is the best way to get new wedding bookings in the future. So, the Church, the animals, the fact they liked my work and were holding the celebrations in a barn or a marquee; could this actually get any better? I'm pleased to tell you, dam right it can! Not only were Bex and Joe about to hold their wedding in a local barn, it was a barn on Joe's families' stud yard. I TOLD YOU! Not only is this wedding to involve animals and relaxed people, it was actually at a yard, with real, live horses, stables overlooking the celebrations, a canter track, horse walker and views to, die for. Thank you, thank you, thank you! When I met Joe and Bex about a month before their day, they showed me around the yard and the barn. It was a windy and colder than normal evening in March and the leaves where still not out on any of the trees. I'd photographed one of Bex's closest friend's wedding last year at the church, followed by celebrations at Aldby Park, near Buttercrambe and what a day that was. I could tell Bex had reservations about how photogenic their 'venue' would be, after all, she was showing me around a stable block on their yard and I think she maybe felt like, I might be thinking they were crazy. How would it compare to where Guy and Sam had held their day, just 10 months ago. Bex was wrong, because all I could think about was how incredible and personal their day was about to be. The backdrop of the horse walker and their plans to paint the stable blocks and then run with an American Barn theme, inside the stables. They cleverly filled the stable block with a marquee's inner-shell and decorated it rustically, with greens and creams, whilst naming the tables after some of the racehorses Joe's late father and sister had trained. The very thought of it was just amazing. I know I go on about this on my website, but this is exactly what I mean, every wedding is different, this is why I love what I do so much. I knew it was important to Joe and Bex that they held their day at Newstead Stables, for the reason that sadly, Joe's father had passed a few years earlier. I think having their day here was very special to them both and with it being at home, it was like Joe's dad was there too-in spirit. It was obvious this was the case with the atmosphere here and Joe's Uncle flew in from Australia, especially for the day too. I believe this was the first time they'd been to the yard since his brother's passing. Clearly, this brought back a lot of memories for the family and at times, I could see how special and emotional this had been for them all. What a great way to build more memories in this very special places where Joe, Bex and their family will be for many years to come. CREDITS TO SUPPLIERS Photos: Fiona @ Anoif Photography | Dress: Brides of York | Hair: Steph & Kaylee @ Luxe | Stationary: Milk and Sugar Design | Food: Alison @ Willows Catering Co | Cake: Cait Who Bakes | Bar: Yorkshire Events Bar | Marquee: Florida Marquees | Band: The Mojos | Dj: Matty Thorpe

Wow, just WOW! Fran and Lee’s Burythorpe House Wedding was the day that just kept on giving I knew there was a surprise in store for Lee, but it didn’t stop there, these two were on a mission, a mission to form as many memories as possible and to have the time of their lives. Meeting in my local market-town of Malton, where they now have a home together, Lee took a shine to Fran and Fran, well, she just wasn’t that interested. Or so the story goes…Perhaps Fran could have been playing hard to get, we’ll never know for certain. One thing that is for sure now, is that these two are totally made for each other-they’re a team, a real family unit. When I first got together to chat with them about their day, they shared their plans and then out of the blue, each of them shared a secret with me; something they were doing for each other, something they wanted to keep a secret. Lee had planned to sing to Fran at the front of the church in Old Malton before they said their vows. He wanted her to know, exactly what she means to him and he also wanted everyone else to hear it too. Fran also had planned something for Lee, an epic surprise for him and their guests. This came in the form of The Singing Waiters, she’d planned for them to sing an eclectic collection of songs, whilst getting everyone on their feet. They even managed to get another tune out of Lee and Fran's dad! She wanted her wedding to be a day to remember for them both and everyone there too. Their day was a roller coaster of emotions and I was truly touched when Lee asked me to accompany himself and the boys to visit Joanne at the Cemetery, it's days like this when you realise just how hard it can be when you've lost loved ones. Joanne is Lee's mum. Witnessing Lee and his groomsmen at the cemetery is something that will stay with me forever, it was clear how missed and loved this lady is, she made such an imprint on not only Lee's time on this planet, but his friends too. I'm so honoured I was asked to document such an important part of the day and I know Fran will treasure these images as much as Lee will. Joanne was mentioned a lot after that, it was certain everyone wished she were there, she surely must have been in spirit. Take a look at their day from beginning to end below. CREDITS TO SUPPLIERS Photography: Fiona at Anoif Photography | Church: St Mary's, Old Malton | Car: Ryedale Limousines | Venue: Burythorpe House | Dress: The Little Pearl | Flowers: All in bloom floristry | Cake: Cait Who Bakes | Balloons: Balloons by Amy | Photo Booth: Limelight hire

Bright blue eyes, a striking smile and the ability to make Lottie laugh; yes, really laugh! That's what stole Lottie's heart when she noticed Ben at Young Farmers, where they met. It goes without saying that Lottie and Ben love the North Yorkshire countryside, where they will spend much of their time together walking their spaniel Bella or doing something with the cows. When they got engaged at Aysgarth Falls, last February, whilst on a mini break together, there was only ever one place they dreamed of celebrating their day; Ben's family farm. Brandrith Farm, just outside of Bulmer, has been in Ben's family for five generations now. It's where Ben grew up and now farms with his father and grandfather, it's also where Lottie keeps her horse, Larry. The Howardian Hills that surround the farm is where the pair enjoy walking Bella. No the wonder they chose the peek of the hill, looking across the endless views to place their marquee. It was here, where their party kicked off. The clear-sided marquee looked magnificent, perched on the brow of the hill and could be proudly, seen from over a mile away. It was here where the guests flooded, after watching Lottie and Ben become Mr and Mrs Fargher, in the idilic little church at Westow. I've never been to Westow church before, probably because it's not actually in the village, itself; it's down the longest and narrowest of country lanes, yet when you get there you'll understand why they chose it. It's just beautiful, not only is the church beautiful, it's in fact the exact place Lottie's mother and father got married, some thirty years ago. On arriving at Brandrith Farm afterwards, the sun shone for much of the afternoon, they were able to enjoy the canapés and champagne as it's rays drenched their skin and allowed everyone to take in the views. Barely, had they sat down and enjoyed the speeches, before the rain started and once it started it continued, I could swear blind I heard thunder at one point too, but the lightening thankfully, never materialised. Following the feast that Baba Ganoush cooked up, the South West Band kicked off the party perfectly, with pretty much every single pair of shoes invited dancing from the get-go. To be honest, I didn't expect anything less from this party-loving, young farmers crowd. See the story of Lottie and Ben's day below: CREDIT TO SUPPLIERS Photos: Fiona @ Anoif Photography |Flowers: Easlingwold Flowers | Hair: The Park, Hovingham | Make-up: Emily Josephs Bridal Makeup | Dress: Darling Brides | Flower Girl Dresses: Amelia Brennan Weddings Food: Babaganous Marquee: Frame and Tailor | Gates, near flower arch: Lund Gates

Two hearts, two lives, two people joined together forever. Looking across the cliff-lined shores as they committed to one another at their Raven Hall Wedding, Alison and John counted on each other for support . As they did so, they giggled under the pressured of being centre of attention and Alison couldn’t help, but titivate and adjust John’s tie and button hole. (Anything to distract from being centre stage. Cute. Being the centre of attention, isn’t for everyone; least of all myself, so I totally, could relate with what Alison and John had told me. They wanted a simple day, no surprises, nothing big just them two and their closest friends and family. They’d fallen in love with the idea of a Raven Hall Wedding, due to the ceremony room, being right up their street. They’d loved the fairy-light, lit dark rafters, the bare stone walls and dramatic cart-wheel chandeliers that hung above them. Alison has a love of all things floral, that said, she mixed greens, golds and white with her flowers for the overall theme, which fitted so perfectly with the venue’s already golden lights. Raven Hall’s historical charm and sea views had won these two over as soon as they’d come across it, with John’s Archeological career, there’s no the wonder. Alison and John’s love of history had also lead them to very interestingly, naming their tables in the the banquet hall after King Henry VIII’s wives, mainly because Alison is a self-confessed Tudor geek, which I totally love! Not to mention it was very fitting for the setting. The food also was another draw for them, John's gluten free and Alison's vegan, so you can imagine it must be quite tricky catering for these two, even so Raven Hall did so nicely. Alison also had a nod to her veganism, with the little pink marzipan pigs, plus they're one of her favourite animals and she thought it fun to incorporate them somewhere. When I first heard about Alison’s dress, I was pretty excited…She told me it was flowery, this obviously, got my curiosity going and annoyingly, I couldn’t ask anymore incase John read something by accident or overheard our conversation. The dress was incredible, it’s delicate, ivory mesh completely, embellished with dainty floral embroider. Alison reminded me so much of Maid Marian, from Robin Hood as soon as she embodied the enchanting frock! The outfit also included a matching cape, OMG! I think I must have told Alison this a hundred times, that she looked like Maid Marian, because she really did and she looked so effortlessly, beautiful. Credit's to Suppliers Photos: Anoif Photography | Venue: Raven Hall | Hair: Anna Green Bridal Stylist | Flowers: The Topiary Tree | Wedding Stationary: Lindsay at The Vow, Sheffield

There is so much about these two, their story and their day I want to share with you, yet where to begin? I’m told the opening line to a blog is the most important. I guess that’s why it’s SO blooming hard to think of, and whilst I’m sitting here looking to the porridge, I just welded to the bottom of the pan, inspiration isn’t flying my way… So Sam and James, James and Sam, two epic party animals, who love nothing more than spending time with their friends and family, making damm, sure they live and breathe every minuscule moment, that’s who these two are! How did I do? With the opening statement I mean! That’s right, these two are party animals, they live and breathe the opportunity of having a good time; laughing, dancing and reminiscing with loved ones, about people past and present. That said, it will be no surprise to you, that Sam and James had always talked about getting married at Beverley Minster when the time came. Let me explain. Why there and what does this have to do with what you were just saying? Not only is the Minster in Beverley larger than one-third of ALL English Cathedrals, it’s regarded as a Gothic master piece by many and most importantly to Sam and James, it’s where Sam’s Great Nan and Great Grandad wed many years ago. Sam and James’ day; however, was a little different to that of her great grandparents, because they married at noon, then returned, on their bicycles, to the fields of their farm, where they continued their day’s toil. Sam and James definitely didn’t do the last part. You guested it; yes, they hosted an epic party, because they love a party. In fact, that’s how they met, 6 years ago. The craziest thing about the night they met, is Sam wasn’t actually, planning on going, she was tired and I think I recall her having an early morning the following day. Something made her go though, maybe their universes had alined or maybe it was just pure chance, but that was the night, Sam met James, at a mutual friend’s house party. They met, they got on ands James REALLY liked Sam, so being the detective he is, he participated in a bit of facebook stalking and ended up getting in touch with someone who I think we can say for sure, certainly wasn’t Sam. Now I missed the rest of this story, probably because I was crying with laughter and also trying to capture the speeches in the best and most meaningful way possible, so these two can look back on this moment and cherish it. Going back to their wedding day party, it was held at The Oaks Golf Club, near Elvington, on the outskirts of York. I’ve never been to The Oaks Golf Club before, so when I pulled up at the bottom of the road to grab a quick snap of the gates, I was very pleasantly surprised to see the perfectly-cut greens which were decorated with evergreen and deciduous trees. The place is picturesque to say the least. The party was to be held in a marque, at the back of the spa and club area, overlooking one of the lakes, which was bordered by yet another beautiful tree-line and endlessly manicured greens. We were it appeared, in the middle of nowhere with so many incredible photo opportunities in store for us. It was at this point, whilst I was surveying the area and enjoying the view, the peace and tranquility was disturbed with shrieks or laugher and people pointing. Sam and James had created to most creative table plan I’ve seen yet, they’d found an image of every one of their guests and they’d pegged them to a board, where they’d waited to be discovered. Discovered they were, Sam and James’ guests giggled and bonded; any ice that may have been there was soon broken, as they looked and laughed, the reason being, they really had found the craziest photos possible of each and every one of them. When they turned over the polaroid image, there on the back was the name of their table. Honestly, this was such a fun idea, a bit like the treasure hunt James set up for Sam. I haven’t mentioned that yet and I really want to. This is the story of how James proposed to Sam… James bought the ring and he had a plan to ask Sam to marry him, so he buried the ring in the garden. Yes, you did read that right, James did burry the ring in the garden! He had planned to do a treasure hunt for her, so she could find the ring and then he’d ask her to marry him and that’s just what he did. There was a little hiccup though, given the ring ended up being buried for six weeks in the end! Luckily, when the right time did arrive and James finally, began the proceeds of asking the question, the ring was still there and she said yes. The rest I suppose, is history. CREDITS TO SUPPLIERS... Photos: Anoif Photography | Minster: Beverley Minster | Venue: The Oaks Golf and Spa | Flowers: Moon & Back Floral Design |

Small and not too formal, Sam and Jess wanted most of all to have fun and to PARTY! Did they do this? Oh yes they did!! You're about to discover who Jess and Sam really are, in all of their awesome incredibleness... When it comes to your day, you want to be able to look back on it just like Jess and Sam will, knowing that your photos portray things as YOU wanted, untainted, inspired solely by yourselves; the conditions of the day and the place you chose to do it, with the people you care about. These two wanted as many awesome, candid, off-the-cuff moments capturing when it came to the photos of their day, they wanted them to be as natural as possible, so they could look back on them and remember what it was like to be there and re-live their day over and OVER. I've known Jess along time now; we worked very closely, together at a local primary school, where I was Jess' teaching assistant, cupboard tidier and chief photocopier. Sorry Jess, I couldn't help myself. We loved our time working together, it was rich with enthusiasm, laughter and gossip, we had SO much fun. I can remember her telling me she'd met Sam, the spring before she left for Malasia. Jess had accepted a teaching post and was preparing to leave for two year. So they did the long distance thing, spending 2 of their 5 years together in 2 different continents and they came out of that smelling like roses. Not for everyone, but definitely for these two. Incredibly, they pulled it off even making the most of their free time travelling and enjoying being together. Moving back to the UK they've set up a life together and vaguely remember mention of Sam hiding the ring in the Christmas tree??? Jess? On 8th April 2023, what fun we did have! Outlining their story so far perfectly, Jess's sister Poppy had written the most incredible reading for them both, she had everyone laughing, crying and in the best of spirits before the ceremony even began. Once upon a time, a young lady met a very hairy man, She was trapped in a tower, in a faraway land, He brought her flowers, And placed a ring on her hand A knight in shining armor, Sam is to Jess And now she stands on the aisle, in her white, wedding dress, This is like a fairytale, just like Belle or Cinder, I’m just joking, they actually met on Tinder, A primary school teacher and a (ummmm, Evri, something about Evri,), they’re such a cool crew, But in fact they can both teach each other a lesson or two, Sam teaches lessons in cleaning ‘Jess, you just missed a smidge’, While she teaches Sam how to get her Prosecco out from the fridge, She set off for Malaysia, but would their relationship ever last, Years since then and now that’s all in the past, They say distance makes the heart grow fonder and in this case it did, I’m sure it won’t be long from now until they have their first kid. Sam is coming round Jessica told me, Who is Sam I replied, He’s my boyfriend, I guess, He’s the guy I met online, Hesitant at first, I didn’t know what to expect, She said he is a really nice guy and in fact she was correct They travelled the world together, Thailand and Japan, Visited several hot countries, yet Jessica still couldn’t catch a tan, He did turn veggie, just to prove his love, But only a few weeks later she found him scoffing pork scratchings down at the local pub She’s loud and he’s also LOUD (oh it says that bit in capital letters), She’s loud and he’s also LOUD, yes, very LOUD, But I don’t mind, I suppose there has to be one in every crowd. Like Copy Report They both found their lucky charm, their four-leaf clover The one they continue to love over and over, CREDIT TO THE SUPPLIERS: Anoif Photography for photos | Shindig for decorating | Leon Marshall for singing | Boothamatic for photobooth | Kilnwick Percy Club for Venue.

The very thought of couples getting married outdoors in the UK excites me in so many ways, I can't tell you! Thankfully, lots of my local venues are getting wind of the growing popularity, of couples deciding to tie the knot in the great outdoors. They're cottoning on and providing the most amazing of set-ups for brides and grooms to do this with its increasing popularity. Have you ever thought about getting married outside? I love the great outdoors and if this had been a thing when I got married I would have definitely considered it. Not only are you surrounded by timeless foliage or country gardens you get some incredible light too, not to mention the fact that everyone has plenty of space and is not packed into a room like sardines. Our venues now are so eager to please and if the weather is looking dicey, they'll do everything within their power to give you what you want. Some I know will make the call with just hours to go and those that have space will set up two areas, just in case or have gone to the trouble of putting a form of cover where your guests would be seated. Just take a moment to imagine the sound of bird song overhead, which your guests can patiently listen to whilst waiting for your grand entrance. Or the crunching of leaves underfoot as you walk down the aisle, it's truly magical. I love it when the warm breeze catches the flowers or blows a butterfly by to wish you luck and make everyone giggle or feel sentimental. FIND OUT WHAT THE BRIDE THOUGHT OF HER DAY. "The idea of an outside wedding was purely because we got together at a festival, the relaxed nature of the outdoors, listening to live music and drinking. It’s just something that suited us. Weddings can be so formal, too similar, we wanted something different to the 'norm' with less of the formalities of a typical wedding. Burythorpe was the ideal location for us, Alison couldn’t do enough, she wasn’t put off by our ideas, she embraced them." Kayleigh x SIX VENUES NEAR ME THAT I RECOMMEND ARE To look at other venues based in Yorkshire take a look here...

You may have heard photographers talk about golden hour, as a photographer we just assume everyone knows when it is and what it is. Last year, I was asked on several occasions by couples what it was, so I thought I'd write this to help my future couples, that way you can decide whether or not you'd like to prioritise this as part of your day. When the Sun is close to the horizon on a sunny day, its light appears warmer and softer. This makes the golden hour, it can happen twice a day (sunrise and sunset) if we're lucky; I'm not going to lie, I generally only see one of them in summer. Golden hour can also be known as the magical hour, the very fact that I'm writing this should let you know, this time of day is popular with photographers and filmmakers. I absolutely love it. The colours, hazes and tones are pretty intense and incredible. Given you can't really appreciate them with the naked eye, photography has given us chance to experiment and freeze this time of day, so we can finally see it for ourselves. The term golden hour can indeed be a little misleading, with golden hour not generally lasting a full hour at all, in fact it can be a very small window of time depending on the weather conditions on the day. If you like the idea of portraits at golden hour it's a good idea to chat about this with myself or indeed your chosen photographer ahead of time. Depending on the time of year, the window of time in which you're going to achieve the most incredible photos changes, as you now know golden hour coincides with sunrise and sunset. To plan ahead, take a look at this golden hour calculator to get a rough idea of what time it will be when you get married. TOP TIPS *If you think golden hour is for you, bear this mind, when it comes to planning significant events in your day, if you're having a winter wedding, golden hour can be anywhere between 3.30pm and 4pm which can very often collide with either your speeches or dinner. Photographers can get a bad name for disturbing you during this period of the day; even so, we know how incredible these photos can be and because not everyone is blessed with the right conditions, we feel passionate about trying to get the best for you on your wedding day. *Communicate with your caterers or venue coordinator, if these photos are important to you, it's your wedding day, these are your memories, so stick to your guns and tell them you might be diving out for 10-15 minutes as the puddings comes out or just before the speeches. That way they'll know exactly what we're up to and will be totally, on board with our actions. 🙈😂 FAQs -Do you always get a golden hour? Sadly, we don't always get the benefits of golden hour everyday of the year. If it's dull and over cast, you will unfortunately not always get the amazing sunset you desire, but if I know it's important to you, I will keep my eyes peeled and grab you when the time is right, even if we only land 5 minutes it could be worth a try.. -Should we schedule a time for these photos? Not necessarily, we don't alway get the light we want at that given time. We can check the calculator and say roughly between X and Y times, but I'll grab you when I'm happy with the intensity. I like to let my couples know that I'm watching and then grab them when the time is right, be aware that when I come and grab you you need to be as quick as you can, (depending on the day) all too often I have couples who say they want these and they they get caught up talking and end up missing it. If they are important to you, you must be prepared to up and leave, talk about the photos with your guests and pre-warn them, that way they'll be more understanding at that given time. -How long will the session take? If we get the right conditions on your day, the session doesn't have to take forever. I usually recommend between 10-15 minutes, that way we should be able to get you a nice variety and I will have already scouted out a good location for them, so we can get straight to it. -Do you think we should have them? Of course! But it's totally up to you, these are your photos, not mine. Do what you want to, but also look to your future self and think will I regret my choice if I decide not do this? Find other useful posts for planning your day...

There are so many things to think about when choosing your wedding venue, but if you've chosen Yorkshire because of its rolling hills, picturesque woodland and rugged coastlines, you'll be pleased to hear your options are endless and in abundance. There are so many different types of venues out there sometimes it's difficult to decide where to start. Loads of people ask me what my favourite wedding venue is, or if there's a venue I work at a lot. Truth be told, I don't know how I'd choose which my favourite is, there are so many out there and they are all so different to one another. It would be difficult to say I love working here the most, because... At the end of the day, there are so many factors that are pulled together on the day of a wedding, the venue is just the beginning of it. I've chosen a handful to share with you today, they're picked at random, each offering something a little different including outdoor venues, plus there's something to suit everyone's budget. THE PHEASANT HOTEL, Harome I've worked here a few times over the years and every time I go back I fall in love with this venue a little bit more, let me tell you why...The Pheasant Hotel is set in the very picturesque village of Harome, which is a stone's throw from the beautiful market town of Hemsley. The Hotel itself has well kept cottage gardens along with a kitchen garden too, Not only can you enjoy have photos with your guests in these there's also other great photo locations within easy walking distance. I find lots of the couple I've worked with, who booked The Pheasant Hotel as their wedding venue were extremely passionate about food and wine. It's the food and wine that The Pheasant are famous for within our local area, they currently have a AA rosette award for culinary excellence already. Need I say anymore? Not only does the hotel offer fine wines and dining possibilities, but it's also the perfect place to host an intermit wedding, The Pheasant is proud to be able to host wedding parties from anywhere 12-80 guests giving you the chance to decide whether or not you'd like exclusive use of the establishment. There is the added bonus of the 16 bedrooms too and if you thought that was good enough they also have an indoor pool onsite and St Saviour's Church literally across the road, just in case you'd prefer to get married in a church. Don't worry you can also get married in the hotel itself, the orangery makes the most beautiful room for everyone to watch and cherish the moment. DEEPDALE FARM WEDDING VENUE, Keldholme I met Jim and Charlotte when I photographed their little boy as a newborn baby; over the years I've watched this venue evolve, the thing I love most about Deepdale is the fact it only became a venue because Charlotte and Jim got married here first or all, followed by a family member and then the rest is history. Deepdale Farm is a rustic DIY barn venue, it has copious quirky spaces from the walker to the grillkota and because it gives couples the most amazing blank canvas to express themselves and design their own wedding day from scratch, you can be sure that your wedding will be authentic it a whole new way! The venue is set on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors, with the views from the barns, wooden hut and camping field being spectacular, to say the least. You can hire Deepdale Farm for 3 days over the weekend, from May to September giving you and your guests and your pets (if you have them) the perfect base to enjoy time together. When it comes to the ceremony, the venue is licensed to conduct them both inside the barns and outside. BIRDSALL HOUSE, Near Malton When you book your wedding at Birdsall House you get exclusive use of the Willoughby's family home, along with the grounds that surround it. Birdsall House is set in the most picturesque of settings, with views looking over to the Yorkshire Wolds and the Vale of York, you will be in awe, no matter what time of the year it is. This sophisticated venue offers ample space for over 150 guests, nevertheless, it still feels like the ideal space for small and intermit gatherings too; I captured a "COVID wedding," here in the ballroom, where there were just 13 guests and it was just wonderful. There's a church on the estate itself, even so, the village of Birdsall is only a 10-minute drive to Norton and Malton, so if you'd rather choose St Peters Church or Mt Mary's it's still within easy reach to do everything here before and afterwards. Birdsall House is also licensed for civil ceremonies within various reception rooms, they are also proud to offer the Temple for blessings if this is more you. BUNNYHILL, North Cliffe The first time I went here, I turned off on to this track and it kept going and GOING! That's because Bunnyhill is nestled within acres of its own land, which is framed by magically-lit woodland. The venue has been lovingly renovated to be a traditional barn venue, with a twist. Bunnyhill is set conveniently, between York and Hull, it's full of romantic charm and understated elegance; from the mezzanine bar area upstairs, where you benefit from the panoramic, countryside views to the stunning courtyard, that wraps around the barn itself. I'd describe Bunnyhill as a glamorous barn venue, with floor to ceiling windows and sleek grey cladding, the venue also offers accommodation for up to 24 guests. The exceptional bridal suite itself offers incredible views from the first-floor balcony, inside there is plenty of space to get dressed and ready for the celebrations surrounded by your chosen tribe. THICKET PRIORY, York Welcome to your fairytale venue, shrouded in privacy for decades, this Grade II-listed Victorian masterpiece has now been lovingly restored to create one of North Yorkshire’s finest wedding venues. Thicket Priory is proud to talk about its royal links dating back to the 1840s, being built by Edward Blore, most notable for his work on Buckingham Palace. Thicket Priory is tastefully decorated with a modern twist and boasts 35 en-suite bedrooms, a magnificent Ballroom that can seat up to 160, it also has a private chapel, 18 acres of grounds, a private lake, a boathouse and even a helipad, just incase you need it. The grounds alone leave you spoilt for choice when it comes to having your portraits taken, when I was last there we took a walk around the lake where we were able to relax and capture the couple's happiness privately. Situated only 20 minutes from York it makes it easily accessible for you and your guests, Ticket Priory offers accommodation for the entire weekend so you can really make to most of seeing people who've travelled to be with you on your day, it's even dog friendly. CAMP KATUR, Bedale Camp Kátur weddings are totally unique to the couples who choose to marry here, the spaces allow you to create whatever you want for your day. Natural, romantic and magical woodland weddings take centre stage at Camp Kátur in the licensed woodland chapel, where all you can hear is the sound of the couple saying thier vows mixed with bird-song and the crunch of leaves underfoot. This venue is the perfect place for a full weekend of celebrations, with accommodation ranging from geodomes, to tent, to lodges some even with hot tubs so you can enjoy the starlit skies overhead. After the ceremony, there are various places to kick off the celebrations, you can enjoy a drinks reception in the woods then when it comes to the dinner & dancing, you can either head to the ‘Hay Barn’ or hire a tipi or marquee for the meadow, where you can party the night away. BURYTHORPE HOUSE, Near Malton Set on the edge of the incredible Yorkshire Wolds, Buryhtorpe House is a Country House Hotel just a ten minute drive from Norton and Malton. In 2013 the house was bought by rock legend Eric Clapton, afterwards going through an extensive renovation process. The hotel offer 14 elegant and traditional bedrooms along with comfortable lounges with roaring log fires and well-kept, landscaped gardens which open up to the views beyond. If you choose Burythorpe House for your day you'll be able to decide whether you get married inside or out. Excitingly, the venue recently announced it's been granted the license for couples to wed anywhere within their grounds too, so you can pick and choose where you think is best for you. Famous for its welcoming staff and fine food, most of the couples I work with here stumbled across the venue when holidaying in the area. After enjoying the area and the country house hotel, many of them book when the opportunity arises for them to plan their wedding. I'd say this speaks volumes about the standard of service people feel they receive. Burythorpe House offers catering for up to 150 guests on the day, they also enjoy getting couples involved in choosing their perfect wedding breakfast. For more ideas and choices of venues hop on over to my resource, section of my website, where I'm always adding new information, to help you get the most out of your day.

The seven year itch, is it a good thing or a bad thing? Luckily, seven years for Sarah and Ben is a good thing. Their wedding day itself being on their seven year anniversary of them officially getting together and exactly a year after they got engaged. These two are made for each other you can clearly see this when they’re together. They met and became good friends whilst working together, when Sarah was just 18. Ben had two young children and a dog, yet they didn’t become a couple until 4 years later. Sarah had left the mutual placement of work and they’d not seen each other for a while, when they eventually, bumped in to one another.. From this point on their relationship was a whirlwind of excitement as they romantically felling head over heal for each other. Not much time passed, before Sarah moved herself in and took on Ben’s children as her own, now 17 & 16 I can see how close the four of them are as a family. The smiles and tears as Sarah and Ben said I do, said it all. It was really important to both Sarah and Ben that their three dog friends were with them on their day, especially Weezy, who has been there from the start, now nearly 15. He walked down the aisle with their son Lloyde and the rings, followed by Aaliyah and the rest of the bridesmaids. Sarah had her Mum at her side all morning and as she walked down the aisle; she describes her Mum as her best friend, this was a real honour for Tracey, you could tell. I could see why Ben and Sarah chose to do everything at York Barn, Villa Farm. To start with it’s nestled in the countryside of York and located only 4 miles from York City Centre, making it easy for friend to find somewhere to their liking to stay if they weren’t staying on-site. York Barn, also offers the warmest of welcomes by blending the rustic, homestead décor along with a modern twist and of course the benefit of being able to do everything in one place made it much more relaxing. They also had a lot of people to invite, so the space York Barn had to offer made sure they had plenty of room to dine and dance, which was useful when the Singing Waiters kicked off the party mid meal, followed by their friend's band, who sang back to back Oasis for the first set-pretty cool! If you want to see the story from beginning to end watch the slideshow below 🥰⬇️ The suppliers for the day Hair: Dannie Lea | The Dress: Treasured Brides, in York | Venue: Villa Farm | Food: Purple Chilli in York for food | Suit: Dandy Threads, Gusiborough | Band: Definitely maybeez | Fireworks: Ardent fireworks in Pocklington

About a month ago Gemma got in touch to tell me about her exciting news, which I can now share! But first I'll give you a back story to paint the picture... Gemma’s mother, Catherine, believe it or not, started The Topiary Tree, floristry business 35 years ago. It began with Catherine selling dried flowers on the end of a market stall she worked on. This progressed and she opened her first shop on Saville Street in Malton. Gemma loved helping her mum and had a growing interest in the floristry trade, so she went off to Askham Bryan College, to train as a florist. Following in her mother footsteps, they took on an extra shop in Helmsley where Gemma’s career began to flourish. At 18 years old she was running her own shop. After a successful time in Helmsley they decided to drop down to the one shop for one reason or another, together deciding on Malton as the best location. It's here on Finkle Street in Malton that The Topiary Tree has been for as long as I can remember. Over more recent years, Gemma's mother has lessened her ties to the business and Gemma has made it her own, taking on her own Apprentice, Ellie just two years ago. So back to the initial exciting news, Gemma was given the chance to take on the shop next door, moving from 9 Finkle Street (where they'd been for a staggering 26 years) to 11 Finkle Street. After securing the deal literally hours before she was due to open the other week, Gemma has made to most incredible transformation of the shop along with her little team of four, Herself, Catherine, Jane and Ellie. Her new establishment offers so many more opportunities for Gemma and her business, she's brimming with ideas, not only has it given her more space to prepare and store her worldly business goods it's given her an outdoor space too. At the moment, I don't have any photos of this area, because it's a secret! I've just heard about Gemma's plans for it. This little courtyard at the back offers nearly as much room as the shop does downstairs and it's here where Gemma is planning to launch and sell more garden pots, obelisks and other decorative items you might like to put in your garden. I imagine it to look like a mini outdoor Aladin's Cave, because everything this lady does looks so good. Gemma also has plans to be able to offer smaller workshops upstairs in the future and possibly even let other creatives use the space to host their own workshops too. This little business is one to watch over the next few months, there are amazing things in the pipeline to come. I also know that all of her wreath making workshops are nearly fully booked, so if you want to do one, get in touch with her as soon as you can. Here's a few piccies to inspire you... ❤️ Photos by Anoif Photography. I love photographing small businesses and hearing about their progression and development. I have no 2022 availability but if you can wait and would love a blog like this, please get in touch!