A Day of Sunshine, Style, and Sailing – with a Star Named Teddy
By John Alderson Wedding Photography

Weddings come in all shapes and sizes – but every now and again, one comes along that’s not just beautiful, but downright magical. Nicola and Philip’s wedding at the magnificent Hardwick Hall Hotel was exactly that. A sun-kissed, joy-filled celebration with a perfect mix of laughter, emotion, and moments that I’ll remember for years. And the best bit? It all took place in one of the North East’s most stunning (and often under-the-radar) wedding venues – the enchanting Floral Chapel at Hardwick.

First Impressions: The Hidden Gem That Is The Floral Chapel

I don’t often get to photograph in the Floral Chapel – and to be honest, I’d forgotten how much of a fairytale this place really is. Wisteria and foliage trailing from the ceiling beams. Exposed wood lending a rustic warmth. A show-stopping crystal chandelier twinkling above a ceiling-high flower-decked fireplace. French-inspired and packed with character, it’s like walking onto the set of a period drama. Elegant, romantic, and just a little bit magical – this is where wedding dreams are made.

Bridal Prep: Calm, Collected and Candid

The day kicked off bright and early with Nicola’s bridal preparations. Everything was calm and relaxed – no drama, no chaos, just a bride getting ready with a quiet confidence that said: “Today’s going to be amazing.”

Meanwhile, over at the bar, Philip was in full host mode, welcoming guests with handshakes, hugs, and huge smiles. I spent the morning bouncing between the two – camera in hand, capturing those lovely in-between moments. The hugs. The giggles. The sneaky glasses of fizz. These candid snippets are often the ones couples love the most, and there was no shortage here.

Enter Teddy – The True Star of the Show

Now, every wedding has that one unforgettable moment or person that steals the spotlight. At Nicola and Philip’s wedding, that was undoubtedly their son, Teddy.

Dressed to match Dad in a dapper suit, Teddy rolled into the room with style, energy, and a sparkle in his eye. Despite using a wheelchair, Teddy was everywhere – charming guests, cracking smiles, and owning every room he entered. A born ringmaster. A natural entertainer. And yes, the official ring bearer for the day.

To say he was a star doesn’t quite cover it – he was the soul of the day.

Ceremony Time: Love, Laughter and a Few Tears

At 11:00am sharp, it was time to make our way into the Floral Chapel. Guests took their seats, and the anticipation built as we awaited the arrival of the bride. Then came the beautiful vintage wedding car pulling up to the chapel’s entrance – and out stepped Nicola, radiant and glowing, ready to walk into her future.

The ceremony was as moving as it was elegant. As Nicola made her way down the aisle, you could feel the room take a collective breath. Then came the vows, the exchanged looks, the giggles (yes, the best weddings always have a little laughter!), and the gentle tears of joy from the front row.

Teddy wheeled down the aisle with the rings – beaming from ear to ear, loving every second – and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

The ceremony included three speeches, each one personal and heartfelt. It’s not often you get speeches during the ceremony itself, but it added such a beautiful, intimate touch.

Confetti and Formal Photos – Windswept and Wonderful

After the ceremony, we headed outside for the traditional confetti throw. The North East breeze was in full swing – let’s call it “brisk” – but spirits were high and everyone was game.

The backdrop? Hardwick Hall’s gorgeous landscaped grounds and the grand lake in the distance. Even the wind had a sense of occasion, whipping veils and tossing hair like a mischievous guest. The result? Some fabulous candid shots, full of movement and laughter. The kind of photos you feel, not just see.

We powered through the formal group photos with laughter and the occasional hair rescue, before guests made their way back inside for what came next…

Speeches Before the Feast

Before the wedding breakfast, guests were invited back into the Floral Chapel for three more amazing speeches.

Nicola’s dad was first – warm, emotional, and full of pride. Then came Philip, clearly speaking from the heart, and finally, best man Paddy, who hit the perfect balance between cheeky humour and touching tribute. Every speech was a little different, but all shared the same thread: love, respect, and joy for the couple.

With the emotional bits done (and a few tissues used), it was time for guests to enjoy their meal. I stepped back at this point to grab a break and give the newlyweds and guests some space to soak it all in.

Portrait Time: Strolling the Grounds

At 5:30pm I was back on duty – and ready to whisk Nicola and Philip away for their couple’s portraits.

Now, Hardwick Hall has no shortage of incredible photo opportunities. From manicured gardens to charming woodland walks and elegant staircases, every corner of the grounds offers something special.

We took full advantage, utilising the golden hour light as the sun started to dip. These moments – just the two of them (well, and me!) – are often the calm in the whirlwind of the day. It’s a chance for couples to catch their breath, look at each other, and think, “We did it.”

Cake, Guests and One Memorable First Dance

As evening guests began to arrive, the atmosphere shifted into full celebration mode. The cake – a stunning multi-tier affair – took centre stage for a while, and the cutting of the cake was done with a big smile and even bigger applause.

Then came the first dance.

And what a choice – Rod Stewart’s ‘Sailing’. Not your everyday wedding pick, but for Nicola and Philip, this one was personal. Sailing is a family passion, and as that unmistakable tune filled the chapel, the room hushed.

Nicola and Philip swayed together, completely absorbed in the moment. And when the song ended, the floodgates opened – the dancefloor filled and the celebration kicked into high gear.

From there, it was candid shots galore. Dancefloor madness. Reunions. Laughter. The occasional dodgy dance move (I won’t name names). And the kind of photos that you know will make it into the family album.

The Perfect Finish to a Perfect Day

Eventually, it was time for me to pack up my cameras and head off – but as I walked out of Hardwick Hall that evening, I did so with a huge smile on my face.

Nicola and Philip’s wedding had everything I love: joy, emotion, family, friends, a brilliant venue, and a couple who were clearly meant to be. And Teddy? Well, he might just have been my favourite ring bearer ever.

About the Venue – Why You Should Consider the Floral Chapel at Hardwick Hall

If you're planning a North East wedding and haven’t yet considered the Floral Chapel at Hardwick Hall Hotel, let me give you a gentle nudge. It really is something special.

Here’s why:

Capacity: Seats around 100 guests comfortably
Décor: French-chic meets rustic elegance – chandelier, exposed beams, florals galore
Location: Sedgefield, County Durham – easy access from across the region
Versatility: Perfect for both ceremonies and receptions
Grounds: Immaculate gardens, a lake, woodland paths – a photographer’s dream

Whether you’re going big or keeping things intimate, the Floral Chapel provides that rare combination of charm and wow-factor. You won’t need to do much – it’s already stunning.

Final Words

To Nicola and Philip – thank you so much for letting me be a part of your incredible day. It was an absolute joy from start to finish.

To future couples reading this – if you’re after a wedding filled with love, light, laughter and the occasional Rod Stewart singalong, I’d love to hear from you.

Still looking for your wedding photographer? I’ve still got a few spaces for 2025 and 2026. Drop me a message or head over to www.johnaldersonweddings.co.uk to find out more.

Cheers to love, laughter, and weddings just like this one.

—
John Alderson
Award-Winning North East Wedding Photographer
Hardwick Hall Wedding Photographer | Floral Chapel Weddings | Natural, Relaxed, Storytelling Photography

Nicola & Philip’s Hardwick Hall Wedding