A Day of Love, Laughter, and a Little Bit of Magic

Durham: a city of history, charm, and ancient stone that glows gold in the sun. Home to one of the UK’s most breathtaking cathedrals, cobbled streets steeped in centuries of story, and — as of now — one of the most unforgettable weddings I’ve had the pleasure of photographing.

Natalie and Richie’s wedding at St Chad’s College was my first visit to this incredible venue, and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction. Nestled quietly in the shadow of Durham Cathedral, this tucked-away gem has the elegance of a fairytale location without any of the pretentiousness. Think Harry Potter architecture meets heartfelt modern love story, and you’re halfway there.

Bridal Prep: Curlers, Chaos & the Cutest Flower Girl Ever

I never went to university, but if I’d known the student quarters looked like this — I might have changed my plans! Bridal preparations took place in one of the upstairs rooms of St Chad’s, and as soon as I walked in, I could feel the buzz.

This was the good kind of chaos. A room brimming with love, fizz, and excitement. Music playing, curling tongs hissing, bridesmaids darting from one task to another with military precision, and the unmistakable scent of perfume, hairspray, and prosecco in the air.

Natalie was a picture of calm in the centre of it all. She sat wrapped in a dressing gown, hair part-curled and clipped, eyes sparkling. Even mid-prep, she looked radiant. There’s something about a bride being surrounded by people who absolutely adore her — it’s like a spotlight from within, and Natalie had it in spades.

Her four bridesmaids were more than just support — they were a team. Steaming dresses, handing over glasses of bubbly, hunting down rogue earrings and mislaid lipstick like trained professionals. There were quiet, heartfelt moments too — a reassuring touch, a whispered “you look amazing”, a shared smile — the kind that says, “this is a big day, and I’m here for you.”

Then, centre stage (and loving it), was little Willow, Natalie and Richie’s daughter, who may just be the most adorable flower girl I’ve ever photographed. Dressed like a tiny princess, she twirled, danced, and grinned her way through the morning. Every time she looked at her mum, it was with complete wonder — as though Natalie had just stepped out of a Disney film.

But the real tearjerker? The arrival of Bodie, Natalie and Richie’s baby boy. He was passed around the room like a precious gift, cuddled, kissed, doted on. The love was palpable. Honestly, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room — even the makeup artist had to take a moment. This little lad brought with him a calm, grounding presence, and I couldn’t help but smile watching how much he was adored.

The Reveal: A Moment That Hits You in the Heart

There’s a part of every wedding morning that gets me every time — the dress reveal. After all the laughter and chaos, there’s a hush. A pause. A collective intake of breath.

Natalie stood, fully dressed, completely breathtaking. The moment her bridesmaids turned to see her — boom — tears. Gasps. Hand over mouth reactions. You’d think they’d never seen her before. But this wasn’t just a dress — this was the culmination of love, friendship, planning, and excitement. It was the moment it all became real.

And then came Dad.

He stepped into the room, saw his little girl — now a bride — and just stopped. Everything else disappeared. His eyes said everything. Pride. Love. Memories of scraped knees and bedtime stories, school uniforms and prom nights — all flashing before him as he blinked back tears.

I managed to time my shutter between his blinking and wiping his eyes. I won’t lie, I was holding back tears myself.

The Ceremony: A Courtyard Full of Light and Love

St Chad’s boasts one of the most beautiful and unique ceremony spaces I’ve worked in — a glass-covered courtyard flooded with natural light and full of character. Even on a warm summer day, with guests discreetly using fans to stay cool, the excitement in the air was electric.

Then the music changed. Heads turned.

Natalie entered.

And the gasps were real. Audible. She looked phenomenal. There’s something about a bride walking through a crowd of people who love her — it’s electric. Richie’s face said it all. If he wasn’t already on the brink, that was the tipping point.

The ceremony itself was full of laughter, joy, and those small moments that make a wedding unforgettable — a slight stumble over words, a shared smirk, the squeeze of a hand. It was real, raw, and beautiful.

Lawn Celebrations: Sunshine, Champagne & Soulful Hugs

After the ceremony, the newlyweds led their 80 guests out onto the college lawn, where the sunshine was waiting with open arms. The atmosphere was instantly elevated — that perfect blend of champagne-fuelled joy, post-ceremony relief, and an unspoken “let’s party” energy.

Hugs were tighter. Smiles were bigger. Kids ran around, glasses clinked, and people you could tell hadn’t seen each other in years laughed like no time had passed.

I love this part of the day — the candid joy. I snapped away while guests embraced, posed, toasted, and soaked in every glorious second.

Wedding Breakfast & Speeches: Food, Feels & Funny Bones

Now, let me say this loud and clear: that chicken dinner deserves its own paragraph.

Crispy skin, juicy meat, seasoned to perfection. Served alongside potatoes and vegetables that didn’t feel like an afterthought — this was a wedding meal done right.

Speeches followed, and they were a beautiful balance of humour, heart, and humility.

Richie’s speech was heartfelt, with just enough self-deprecating humour to win every guest over. Natalie’s dad managed to make half the room cry and the other half laugh out loud, sometimes both at once. And Richie’s brother brought the house down with some well-timed jokes and genuine sentiment.

These weren’t just speeches. They were stories. Tributes. Love letters in spoken form.

Golden Hour Portraits Around St Chad’s

After the meal, I whisked Natalie and Richie away for a walk around the grounds and historic college building. The sun was dropping low, casting the most beautiful golden glow across the college walls and cloisters.

We explored ivy-covered corridors, stone stairwells, and quiet corners that oozed character. The way the light caught Natalie’s veil and Richie’s soft gaze toward her — magic. I could’ve shot portraits there for hours.

St Chad’s is a photographer’s dream — no two backdrops are the same, yet every single one is gorgeous.

Evening Reception: From Romance to Rave

As the sun dipped behind the cathedral and more guests arrived, the evening picked up pace. The lawn filled once again, and the vibe shifted from laid-back to full-on celebration mode.

At 7pm, Natalie and Richie cut the cake, surrounded by cheering guests and flashing cameras. Then it was time for the first dance — and what a moment that was. In the glow of fairy lights, in that beautiful glass courtyard, they swayed together like the world had melted away.

But wait — there was more!

The bridal party surprise dance to “The House of Bamboo” was everything. Fun, choreographed chaos, and an absolute crowd-pleaser that had everyone laughing, cheering, and reaching for their phones to film.

And then came the band.

Hip Hop Hooray weren’t just good — they were next level. They brought the energy of a festival, the vibe of a retro block party, and the talent to back it all up. The courtyard became a dance floor, a sea of movement and joy.

Old school anthems with a twist. People of all ages on their feet. That magical moment where a wedding becomes a memory no one will ever forget.

Final Thoughts

This was my first time photographing a wedding at St Chad’s College, and I can only hope it won’t be my last.

It’s a venue that ticks every box — stunning architecture, central location, romantic atmosphere, and a team that clearly takes pride in creating incredible days for incredible people.

Natalie and Richie — thank you for letting me be part of your story. Your day was overflowing with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. It was an honour to capture every second.

Quick Facts: St Chad’s College, Durham

📍 Location: 18 North Bailey, Durham DH1 3RH
🏛️ Established: 1904
🌳 Setting: Tucked behind the River Wear, under the shadow of Durham Cathedral
💒 Ceremony Space: Elegant glass-covered courtyard
🌿 Outdoor Space: Private college lawn with views and character
📸 Best Photo Spots: Cathedral views, ivy-clad corridors, stone stairwells, historic doorways

Planning a Wedding in Durham?

Whether you’re dreaming of a grand affair or a small, storybook ceremony, St Chad’s College offers timeless charm with a modern heart. And if you’re looking for someone to capture it all — I’d love to help tell your story.

Feel free to get in touch to check availability, get a quick quote, or have a chat about your wedding plans.

Natalie & Richie's Wedding at St Chad’s College, Durham