Jamie & James – A Sunny, Intimate Wedding at The Story, Durham
There’s something incredibly moving about a small wedding — just the people who matter most, a perfect day, and love shining through in every quiet moment. Jamie and James’ wedding at The Story in Durham was a heartfelt reminder that less can absolutely be more. With just the couple, Jamie’s adult daughter Tyler, James’ mam and dad, and his brother and sister-in-law present, this was a relaxed, no-fuss wedding that overflowed with warmth and joy.
As a photographer who works regularly at The Story, I can confidently say it’s one of the finest wedding venues in the North East. From its elegant interiors to its unbeatable Durham city location, this place has everything — and it’s always a pleasure to shoot there. But it’s the people that make each wedding unique, and Jamie and James made this sunny spring day one I won’t forget.
The Calm Before the “I Do”
Unlike larger, traditional weddings with multiple moving parts and early morning chaos, Jamie and James opted for a relaxed approach. No separate arrivals, no big entourage — they all arrived at The Story together. It was refreshing, peaceful, and perfectly suited to the couple’s laid-back nature.
That’s not to say there weren’t a few nerves. James had a couple of brief moments of tension — completely normal for a groom! But with family nearby, and Jamie’s calming presence, everything settled smoothly.
The Ceremony: Short, Sweet, and Full of Love
The wedding took place in The Story’s Small Suite, a room I’ve grown to adore for its intimacy and beauty. Perfect for small gatherings, it offers elegant decor, soft lighting, and a warm atmosphere — ideal for photographing meaningful ceremonies like this one.
Jamie looked stunning, and James was beaming with quiet pride. Tyler, Jamie’s daughter, was there with a huge smile and so much love in her eyes. The ceremony itself was filled with lightness and laughter — just the right mix of emotion and joy. There were no long speeches or fanfare, just two people sharing a beautiful moment with the ones who mean the world to them.
It’s these kinds of ceremonies that really remind me why I do what I do.
Portraits on the Grand Staircase and Steps
After the ceremony, we made our way to The Story’s iconic staircase — a feature that never disappoints. It’s one of the most elegant backdrops in the building, and with Jamie and James looking so happy and relaxed, it made for a gorgeous set of bride and groom portraits.
Next, we gathered everyone for a series of formal photos on the front steps, capturing the relaxed smiles and genuine warmth shared between them all. Small weddings mean we get to slow things down, enjoy the moment, and capture the natural connections that often get lost in the busyness of larger events.
We also took some extra couple portraits in the small green area just outside the venue — with that signature Durham charm in the background.
Off to The Cellar Door: Cake and Comfort
From there, we walked the short distance to The Cellar Door, one of Durham’s most-loved riverside restaurants. This was where Jamie and James had chosen to mark the next part of the day with a mock cake cutting. No speeches, no toasts — just a relaxed chance to grab a few more photos and a bite of cake surrounded by family.
The Cellar Door has an intimate feel and stunning views, making it a perfect continuation of the day’s warm, personal tone. I managed a quick panoramic group photo of everyone seated — one of those natural, easygoing shots that just sum up the day.
A Quick Shoe Swap and a Stroll to the Cathedral Green
After the cake, Jamie made one very sensible decision: comfortable shoes! With new footwear sorted, we took a stroll through the city to Durham Cathedral’s Green — a spectacular setting for a final set of portraits.
Although we didn’t venture inside the Cathedral itself, the Green in front of the Cathedral offered all the majesty and romance we needed. With the dramatic towers in the background, the spring sunshine bathing the grass, and Jamie and James walking hand-in-hand, we captured some of my favourite portraits of the day.
There’s something very powerful about ending a wedding shoot with these kinds of natural, unscripted moments. Nothing forced, no time pressure — just two people enjoying their first walk together as newlyweds.
The Story Durham: Still One of My Favourite Places to Shoot
Before I wrap up, I have to give a heartfelt thank you to the incredible team at The Story. Time and again, they prove why this is one of the North East’s best venues for both couples and photographers. The team are welcoming, helpful, calm, and genuinely lovely to work with. Every time I’m there, I know the day is going to run smoothly — and that makes a world of difference.
If you’re thinking of booking your wedding at The Story, whether it’s just the two of you or a celebration with 30 guests, here’s what makes it such a great choice:
Stunning architecture both inside and out
Multiple room sizes to suit weddings big or small
Beautiful natural light for perfect photography
Prime Durham location, close to the Cathedral, river, and restaurants
Professional, kind, and organised staff who truly care
Picture-perfect staircase and entrance for unforgettable portraits
Final Thoughts from Behind the Lens
Jamie and James’ wedding was a joy from start to finish. It reminded me that weddings don’t have to be grand affairs to be beautiful. All it takes is love, a bit of sunshine, and people who truly care for each other.
As their photographer, I felt more like a friend than a vendor — and that’s how I like to work. Relaxed, invisible when I need to be, and present when it counts. Whether it’s a staircase kiss or a stolen glance outside the Cathedral, these are the stories I love to tell through my lens.
If you're planning your own small wedding at The Story, or anywhere in Durham or the North East, I’d be delighted to help you capture it. Get in touch, and let’s talk about how we can create something beautiful — together.
John Alderson Wedding Photography
Relaxed. Award-Winning. Real.
📍 Durham | North East | Northumberland
💻 www.johnaldersonweddings.co.uk
Let’s tell your story — one real moment at a time.
