Stephanie & Jason’s Wedding – The Story Durham & Redworth Hall | A Day of Joy, Laughter & Pure Celebration

Some weddings are calm. Some are joyful. Some are emotional. And some — like Stephanie and Jason’s — are all three, wrapped up in one unforgettable day across two of the North East’s most iconic venues: Redworth Hall and The Story in Durham.

From the moment I arrived at Redworth Hall at 1pm, I knew it was going to be a special one. Bridal prep was in full swing, and the vibe was exactly what any photographer hopes for — relaxed, upbeat, and filled with laughter. Stephanie was joined by her three bridesmaids in the grand surroundings of one of Redworth Hall’s beautifully styled rooms. There was a steady flow of prosecco, a soundtrack of calm giggles, and that electric, happy tension that only a wedding day can bring.

The bridal prep wasn’t just about hair and makeup — it was about friendship, memories, and joy. The room glowed with natural light as I moved quietly, capturing details — the dresses, the shoes, the finishing touches of makeup — all while laughter echoed in the background.

And then… Theo arrived.

Baby Theo quite literally stole the show. In a space already filled with warmth, his arrival brought an extra spark. He lit up the room and melted every heart, his innocent curiosity and beaming smiles becoming a highlight of the day before the ceremony had even begun. Every time he appeared, cameras clicked. He was that charming.

With bridal prep complete, we headed to the Bridal Suite for some formal shots. The décor in the suite complemented the elegance of the bride and her bridal party — Stephanie looking radiant in her dress, the bridesmaids glowing with pride and excitement. We captured a mixture of classic portraits and relaxed, laughter-filled moments before it was time to leave for the ceremony.

We made our way to The Story in Durham — a venue I truly love and know inside out. The ceremony was scheduled for 4pm in the elegant and spacious Durham Suite, which looked absolutely breathtaking as the 80 guests began to arrive. Everyone was dressed to the nines — every guest immaculate, every smile wide, and every eye shining with excitement.

Jason stood proudly, joined by his son Will and his best men, ready to welcome Stephanie down the aisle. I was thrilled to be working once again with my good friends and fellow professionals, Simon and Peter — two incredibly talented videographers who I always enjoy teaming up with. It makes such a difference when the photo and video team flow seamlessly together.

The ceremony itself was heartfelt, relaxed, and full of charm. The registrars were warm and welcoming, the atmosphere light but emotionally charged. Stephanie entered the room to a wave of emotion, and Jason — like all good grooms — wore his heart on his sleeve. Vows were exchanged, rings placed, and in those few minutes, all the months of planning came together perfectly. Guests laughed, cried, and clapped their way through a celebration of love that felt deeply personal and incredibly genuine.

Of course, Theo once again stole the spotlight — that perfect blue suit of his somehow managing to charm absolutely everyone, from the registrars to the grandparents.

After the ceremony, I took Stephanie and Jason for their first portraits as husband and wife on The Story’s iconic grand staircase. That location never fails — the drama of the sweeping architecture, the neutral tones, the soft light — it always delivers timeless, elegant images that my couples love. With just the right balance of classic poses and natural, candid shots, we created a gallery that captured their love story beautifully.

Then it was back to Redworth Hall for the evening celebrations — and wow, what a celebration it was.

The afternoon sun was still shining as guests gathered in the gardens, enjoying drinks, conversation, and more laughter. The formal group photos breezed by thanks to everyone’s good spirits and the relaxed schedule. People were in the mood to party, and it showed. Stephanie and Jason’s friends and family were the type of guests every wedding photographer dreams of — open, joyful, and fully present in the moment.

And then… the saxophonist arrived.

Yes, you read that right — a live saxophone player belting out classic house tunes. It was an inspired choice that gave the early evening a classy, Ibiza-lounge-meets-English-country-manor kind of vibe. People danced, clapped, and sang along as the energy lifted even higher. The live music set the tone for what would become one of the liveliest evening receptions I’ve seen in a long time.

The speeches were funny, moving, and just the right length — sincere words from loved ones that painted a picture of Stephanie and Jason’s relationship. The cake cutting and first dance followed swiftly, with the couple sharing a warm, intimate moment on the dancefloor before being joined by guests keen to throw shapes into the night.

The buffet was served at 8pm, but honestly, the dancefloor barely emptied. Guests were eager to grab a bite and then jump straight back into the fun. The atmosphere was electric — a perfect combination of great music, great company, and a bride and groom who clearly love to have a good time.

When I said my goodbyes around 9pm, the party was still in full swing. The dancefloor was packed, the bar still buzzing, and the air thick with energy. It felt like the kind of night that would go on long into the small hours — the First Party of Stephanie and Jason’s married life, and one that set the bar very high.

Final Thoughts

As a wedding photographer, days like this are a reminder of why I do what I do. Stephanie and Jason’s wedding was more than just a beautiful event — it was a joyful, emotional, and truly fun celebration of love, surrounded by people who knew how to make the most of every moment.

It’s also a reminder of how vital great venues are in shaping the story of a wedding. Redworth Hall and The Story Durham complemented each other perfectly — one offering a warm and luxurious start to the day, and the other providing a modern yet classic backdrop for a meaningful ceremony.

And of course, a shoutout to baby Theo — the tiny guest with the biggest personality.

Stephanie and Jason, thank you for trusting me to tell your story. Your love, your families, and your fantastic sense of fun made it an absolute honour.

Are you planning your wedding at The Story, Redworth Hall, or anywhere else in the North East? I’d love to hear your plans and help capture every unforgettable moment of your day. I’m John Alderson, a professional North East wedding photographer who specialises in relaxed, story-driven coverage that’s full of warmth, honesty, and joy.

Let’s make your day unforgettable.

📩 Contact me now for a quick quote
📍 Based in the North East | Covering Durham, Darlington, Newcastle, Northumberland, and beyond

johnaldersonphotography@gmail.com