Family, Laughter, and a City Full of Magic

Arriving Early: The Photographer Who’s Always Too Keen

I’ll admit it: I’m one of those photographers who likes to arrive early. Not just five minutes early, but a good chunk of time before I’m due. It’s partly because I like to be prepared (camera gear checked, lenses cleaned, batteries charged), and partly because I genuinely enjoy seeing the build-up of excitement before a wedding begins.

On this particular September day in Durham, the skies were a soft overcast grey. Now, some might grumble about clouds on their wedding day, but photographers like me secretly love them. Cloud cover means even, diffused light — no harsh shadows, no squinting, just beautifully soft skin tones. And while it wasn’t blazing sunshine, the air was warm enough to be comfortable. Perfect conditions, really.

When I arrived 30 minutes ahead of schedule, I expected the usual scene: maybe a couple of keen guests hanging around, the odd usher trying to look busy, and the groom pacing quietly inside. What I got instead was a crowd. Not just a few, but nearly the entire wedding party already there — chatting, laughing, and filling the courtyard like it was a pre-match gathering at St James’ Park.

At the centre of it all was Steve, the groom, looking sharp but definitely wearing the nervous smile of a man about to say “I do.” His Best Man (and son) Owen was by his side, keeping him steady.

I’ve photographed a lot of weddings, but this one had the earliest, most eager crowd I’ve ever seen. They were practically ready to start the ceremony without Julie! To keep everyone relaxed and entertained, I gathered them out onto the café patio at The Story. It’s a brilliant little space where guests can mingle and breathe before the formalities. Out came my camera, and before long, we had plenty of candid shots of laughter, hugs, and Steve trying his best to keep his nerves in check.

Julie Arrives with Sophie

Inside, the registrars were preparing the ceremony room, while outside, the bride was about to make her entrance.

Julie arrived with her daughter Sophie, and although she was clearly nervous, there was a sparkle in her eyes that said she was ready. Sophie, calm and supportive, stood by her side, making sure everything was just right.

We had just enough time for a quick round of photos on The Story’s famous front steps. Honestly, I’ll never tire of those steps. Every couple who stands there instantly looks like part of Durham’s story (pun intended). They frame the couple beautifully and set the tone for what’s to come.

Then it was a quick five minutes in the Bridal Preparation Suite. For those who don’t know, this room is one of the hidden gems of The Story. It’s bright, calm, and the perfect little space for those last-minute nerves and final adjustments. Julie took a few deep breaths, and then — boom — it was time.

The Procession: Led by Love (and Grandkids!)

If there’s one moment that tugged at everyone’s heartstrings, it was the bridal procession.

Julie and Steve’s six grandchildren — Joseph, Skyla, Mia, Faith, Hope, and Ava — proudly led the way. Each one walked with a mix of excitement and pride, the younger ones a little wide-eyed at all the attention, the older ones loving every second. You could hear the collective “aww” ripple through the guests as they entered.

And then Julie followed. Nervous, yes — but radiant. It was clear this was a family-first wedding, where love stretched across generations.

The Ceremony: Simple, Elegant, Perfect

One thing I’ve come to learn about The Story is that their ceremonies always run smoothly. That’s no accident. The staff here are some of the most organised and genuinely caring professionals I’ve ever worked with.

They don’t just tick boxes or read from a script — they put their hearts into it. From guiding the couple through paperwork to ensuring guests know where to sit, they create an atmosphere that feels personal and warm every single time.

Julie and Steve’s ceremony was no different. The registrar’s delivery was pitch-perfect: heartfelt, clear, and with just the right balance of formality and warmth. Julie’s nerves melted away as soon as she caught Steve’s eye. Steve, for his part, looked like the weight of the world lifted the moment he said “I do.”

And just like that — they were married.

Photos on the Grand Staircase

If you’ve ever been inside The Story, you’ll know exactly what I mean when I say the Grand Staircase is the jewel in the crown. Sweeping, elegant, dramatic — it’s the kind of staircase you half-expect to see in a film. As a photographer, it’s a dream canvas.

Julie and Steve stepped onto the staircase, and the magic happened instantly. Soft light streaming in, the couple framed perfectly by the sweeping banisters — it’s the kind of backdrop that makes every photo look like it belongs in a glossy magazine spread.

We captured some romantic shots, a few fun ones, and plenty of smiles. It’s one of those settings where you don’t need to over-direct — the space does half the work for you.

Group Photos: All Hands On Deck

Next up were the formal group photos outside. Now, anyone who’s been to a wedding knows this part can go one of two ways: smooth and joyful, or chaotic and stressful. Luckily, with this crowd, it was the former.

Everyone pitched in, guests were quick to assemble, and the laughter continued throughout. I always think group shots are underrated. They’re not just “posed” photos — they’re a record of who was there, a snapshot of history that families will treasure decades down the line. Julie and Steve’s group photos were exactly that: filled with joy, hugs, and a couple of cheeky kids pulling faces.

The Curious Mr Fox: Celebrations in the City

With the formalities wrapped up, it was time to head down into Durham City Centre. The reception venue? The Curious Mr Fox — a quirky, stylish bar that’s become a real hit with couples looking for something a little different.

The atmosphere there was relaxed and fun. Guests grabbed drinks, laughter filled the air, and we captured some great candid moments. Julie and Steve staged a mock cake cutting, which was a brilliant touch for photos. Who says you have to wait until later for the cake moment?

Behind the Lens: A Photographer’s View

From a technical side, this wedding was a joy to shoot. The Story’s ceremony rooms are bathed in natural light, which makes my job a dream compared to some darker venues where flash becomes a necessity. The neutral tones of the walls act as a perfect reflector, softening skin tones and giving every photo that clean, crisp look couples love.

Outside, the overcast sky acted as nature’s softbox, giving me consistent, flattering light for portraits and group shots. Add in Durham’s photogenic city centre, and you’ve got the perfect wedding photography recipe.

Why Couples Love The Story

It’s no wonder Julie and Steve chose The Story. Since opening, it’s quickly established itself as one of County Durham’s most popular registry office venues. Here’s why:

Location: Right in Durham City, surrounded by historic streets, the river, and the Cathedral just a short walk away.
Rooms: A choice of ceremony spaces, from small intimate rooms to larger grand ones.
The Staff: Always professional, always warm, always going above and beyond.
The Staircase: Already iconic among North East wedding photographers.
Flexibility: Perfect for couples wanting a no-fuss registry office wedding or something more elaborate.

Fun stat: Registry office weddings now make up around 30% of all marriages in England and Wales, and The Story has quickly become one of the top picks in the North East.

Wrapping Up

By the time I packed up my gear at The Curious Mr Fox, I knew Julie and Steve’s wedding would stay with me. It wasn’t the biggest or the flashiest wedding I’ve photographed, but it had something far more important: heart.

A groom surrounded by eager friends and family. A bride supported by her daughters. Grandkids proudly leading the way. Staff who made everything seamless. And a city — Durham — that always provides the perfect backdrop.

Julie and Steve’s story is now part of The Story. And I couldn’t be happier to have been the one to capture it.

Julie & Steve’s Wedding at The Story in Durham