Nicki and Nish’s Hilles House Wedding
Gloucestershire
I’m not sure I’ve ever had a couple love their wedding venue quite as much as N&N and so it was a particular privilege when they chose me to be their Hilles House wedding photographer.
Hilles House is a beautiful and slightly quirky manor house, surrounded by insanely gorgeous gardens and even more spectacular views over a total of five counties. This awesome wedding venue is certainly unique!
When I’d checked the weather forecast the day before, the weather looked pretty grim, with heavy rain forecast for the whole wedding day. I knew that N&N were in love with their venue indoors as well as outdoors, so I knew that whatever happened, we’d nail the photos.
The Clients Said…
“If you want someone to truly capture the love and joy of your wedding day then Becky is the one! Cool, calm and super friendly, she put us at ease instantly. We were able to relax, be ourselves and really enjoy the special moments.
It was forecast to rain all day but to our surprise it let up just as we finished our ceremony and Becky did so well capturing beautiful shots outside before the rain started again.
We were looking for someone to capture the emotions in real-time candid shots and Becky professionalism and experience shone through in the moments she caught. Brilliant to work with at each stage she kept us informed with timely responses and updates so we were prepared for the day. She did such a great job and has left us with beautiful memories of our special day that we can’t wait to relive for years to come.”
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The Wedding Day Story
I arrived early on the day of the wedding and felt excited about what was ahead as a carried my kit down the long steep drive between the car park and venue. I was greeted by coordinator Emma who showed me around the wedding venue. I headed outside for some atmospheric, rainy venue shots before the bride arrived to get ready. N turned up with her Mum and make-up artist in tow and was shown to the Primavera bedroom to get ready.
Given how much they love their venue, I took some time to capture the rooms involved with the wedding, with their unique interiors, art, tapestries, fireplaces.
Despite having large windows, the venue itself isn’t flooded with natural light, allowing the opportunity to get creative with highlights and shadows and create some striking images.
The ceremony was held in the Big Hall, which seats up to 100 guests and got off to a lively start with the groom and his groomsmen surprising their guests with a dance routine as they came down the aisle, which culminated in them lining up at the altar and throwing confetti!
The bride’s arrival was more traditional, and she was given away by her father. The couple said they vows in front of the beautiful fireplace which was lit to create a cosy atmosphere as the rain fell outside. Coordinator Emma informed me the rain had miraculously stopped as the couple were pronounced husband and wife, so once the register was signed, we headed outside to line up for the confetti toss!
Sometimes with weddings it pays to be flexible with timings when it comes to the Great British weather so we decided we’d quickly run through the couple’s group photograph list whilst the rain held off. It was wonderful that the guests had some time to enjoy the beautiful views and gardens at Hilles House too!
Reception drinks were served and the newly-weds were keen to make the most of the dry weather and head off for their portraits. We started in the garden where I was spoilt for choice for gorgeous backdrops. Spring had just sprung, and the garden was laden with florals and greens, blossom and fresh spring leaves. As the bride and groom loved the venue so much, and with rain threatening once more, we headed indoors where we made use of the beautiful interiors to create some awesome indoor portraits too!
The drinks reception was still in full swing, and so the couple grabbed a drink and after the cake was cut, they relaxed with their family and friends whilst I captured some candid photographs of the fun.
The wedding breakfast consisted of afternoon tea and before long everyone was seated for a beautiful menu of treats and fizz!
As the couple were heading off on their honeymoon straight after afternoon tea, it was time for me to depart, and so I said goodbye and congratulations to this wonderful couple and the fabulous Hilles House.
About Hilles House
Hilles House has an interesting history which can’t help but fascinate. It’s a Grade II listed Arts and Crafts house in the Gloucestershire countryside, built by the current owner’s grandfather between 1914 and 1916. Both named Detmar Blow it’s evident that the family are eccentric. Detmar – who owns the property today – was married to the fashion industry’s celebrated visionary Isabella Blow who came to a tragic end. The couple were (and Detmar remains) committed to encouraging and supporting raw creative talent and creative and cultural enterprises
Alongside weddings, Hilles House remains hosts to a thriving arts community. The House hosts multiple cultural events such as art exhibitions, literary events, outdoor theatre and musical groups every year. It also hosts an annual Arts festival and opens its doors to creatives searching inspiration or a unique backdrop in which to create.
As a wedding venue it has huge potential. There’s the option to marry and host your wedding within the house itself or erect a marquee or yurt. The gardens have incredible views, making it a truly sensational venue for outdoor weddings, and there’s also space for guests to camp (or glamp!) within the vast grounds.
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Gloucestershire Weddings
Gloucestershire has so many beautiful wedding venues that newly-engaged couples are spoilt for choice. A large proportion of the Cotswolds sits within this beautiful county and being within easy reach for most of the UK, it is a very popular county to get married.
I absolutely love the diversity of wedding venues in Gloucestershire, and there’s always something beautiful to use as a backdrop. This beautiful county has stunning natural scenery, gorgeous stone-walled villages and pretty stone walls to boot.
I absolutely love photographing weddings in Gloucestershire, and Hilles House was no exception.
Hilles House Wedding Photographer – Becky Weir
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