Not even the weather could dampen the spirit and enjoyment of Joe and Amy’s big day at romantic Herefordshire wedding venue, Bredenbury Court Barns.

Setting the bar sky high for barn wedding venues in the West Midlands, Bredenbury Court Barns has it all. From its idyllic Herefordshire countryside setting and stunning outdoor backdrops to its amazing mix of interior spaces – ticking boxes for historic elegance and contemporary charm – it has to be one of my wedding photography favourites.

So, I wasn’t surprised that it stole the hearts of Amy and Joe when they were hunting for a “relaxed yet modern” barn wedding venue, and I was delighted when they chose me to capture their day.

I’d previously met Amy whilst working at another venue, and it turned out that when it came to planning her own big day, I fit her and Joe’s wedding photographer brief perfectly. They wanted “in-the-moment” photography (tick!) with more natural than posed shots (double tick!) and didn’t want to spend too long away from their guests for portrait shots (I work quickly!). They’d planned a very family and friend-focused wedding, and so they didn’t want to miss out on precious time celebrating with those they love (and quite rightly so!).

Arriving at the venue on the morning of 2nd October 2023, I joined Amy and her bridesmaids in Bredenbury Court Barns’ Beauty Booth, a dedicated on-site space for the all-important wedding prep. From the off, the day had a super relaxed yet upbeat vibe, with everyone in high celebratory spirits.

Unfortunately, the British weather didn’t quite match the vibe, giving us rainy conditions for most of the day. However, another beauty of this popular West Midlands wedding venue is that it gives couples full exclusive use. That means Amy and Joe had the run of their very own country estate, including numerous characterful indoor rooms and spaces to make use of.

Exchanging vows in front of 90 guests, the couple’s ceremony took place in The Orangery, an elegant room flooded with natural light thanks to its multiple windows, skylights and mirrors. Adding an extra personal touch to the proceedings – and coming as a complete surprise to Amy and Joe – their musician friend who sang during the ceremony had also written a special song for them, which he performed while the register was signed. 

The drinks reception followed, with guests flowing into Bredenbury Court Barns’ spectacular atrium. Then, a miracle happened…the rain stopped! For around ten magical minutes, which meant I could get the full guest shot on the lawn, just as Amy and Joe wanted, plus some relaxed group shots!

The Oak Barn provided a different style backdrop again for the reception and evening party with its rustic timber beams and trusses decked out in reams of atmospheric fairy lights. 

Keen to keep the mood relaxed, Amy and Joe skipped over some traditions, such as the cutting of the cake and a solo first dance, instead opting for an ‘everyone-on-the-dancefloor’ opening track, which I loved (even if it was a little trickier than usual to photograph!).

Other personal highlights of their day included seeking out some wonderful interior backdrops for some awesome portrait shots (the doorway ones being amongst my favourites!) and having fun on the lawn with the bridal party and groomsmen to keep the images light and natural. 

And it seems Amy and Joe were equally happy with the results! Commenting on their images, they said: “We were a little worried about how the couple shots would turn out as we didn’t want to look awkward. However, you made us both feel really comfortable, and we didn’t look awkward at all! You fitted in so well with our guests on the day and were always there capturing moments amongst our family and friends. You exceeded our expectations.”

Feedback like this means everything, and I can’t thank the newlyweds enough for choosing me as their Bredenbury Court Barns wedding photographer. 

Shooting at this West Midlands wedding venue was a real treat, with a winning combination of historic luxury and modern elegance all wrapped up in its unique character. I look forward to capturing more weddings there soon.

I’m a West-Midlands-based wedding photographer shooting weddings in Birmingham, Staffordshire, Worcestershire and Hertfordshire, as well as venues throughout the UK and overseas. If you’d be interested in hiring me for your wedding, simply head over to my Contact page and drop me a message, and I’ll be back in touch ASAP!