Lee Hawley

An Insiders Guide to Cotswold Weddings

An Insiders Guide to Cotswold Weddings

Cotswold Wedding Guide - An insiders unique insight

 

Origins

They say when life gives you lemons, make lemonade, and this Cotswold Wedding Guide is a product of that mindset. When Coronavirus hit in March 2020 I had nearly 50 weddings scheduled for another busy and exciting year, and then within a couple of weeks my diary had been stripped bare all the way up to September (at the time of writing, it may get worse yet!).

I took some time to take stock, and to analyse the situation for me and the business and find any positives that could be used. It was clear that one big change is I was now time-rich. Which is a posh way of saying I didn’t have much to do now! I considered a few options. One was doorstep photography, which I have seen many other photographers now do to great effect, but I just didn’t feel it was my sort of thing. The other option was to blog galore, on anything and everything! With lack of time being the main reason I don’t get to blog as much as I would like under normal circumstances this was a good option, as it helps the websites google performance, and potentially exposes me to more couples.

Lightbulb Moment

But I had another idea brewing, that I felt had even more potential to elaborate on. Having already considered what skills and/or knowledge I have that can be reapplied in the current situation, an overwhelming understanding of Cotswold weddings was top of the list.

I had always had it in mind to produce a blog or section on my website to help couples in finding the right venue for them, but I simply never had the time with everything else associated with being a wedding photographer to do it. But now it was clear this had potential to become a much larger project, and being the sort of person that struggles to sit twiddling my thumbs (even though we have a 4 years old and 7 month old keeping us busy) I have relished the opportunity to use this time to do something I would not have been able to do otherwise and resulted in a truly unique Cotswold wedding guide.

So I am excited to introduce you to An Insiders Guide to Cotswold Weddings.

Passion

A labour of love, pouring all the knowledge of Cotswold weddings I have gained into a 64 pages printed guide of inspiring images, insights and insider tips.

Expert Contributions

I have called upon some of my industry buddies and top venues to contribute with their advice and experiences, as well as interviews from some of my amazing brides who have given priceless tips from their first hand experience, and being advert free, everyone featured is on merit, so you can know this is a genuinely honest product.

The guide Is for couples ranging from those starting the process trying to get a handle on where to star, through to those who know what they want but need help in finding the right people for the job, and to those who don’t really know what they want, but know they will when they see it!

So through 100’s of inspiring images, and over 20,000 words, I believe this guide is an essential tool in helping couples plan their unique Cotswold wedding! I’m incredibly proud of it, and it has turned out way better than I ever hoped, but throughout the process I have doubted myself endlessly. Asking myself, is this really of any value? Who’s going to want to pay for something I have written? Who cares what I think? But then I had these exact same doubts when I first had ambitions to become a wedding photographer, and that turned out OK, so I have taken a brave pill and put myself out there for criticism and ridicule, but have produced something I am proud to put my name too.

 

I have genuinely loved every aspect of this. Everything you see in the guide from the writing, through to the page layouts and photography has been done by me and contributors where detailed, so it has been incredibly satisfying. Working with my wonderful supplier colleagues who have contributed to articles throughout has been genuinely heart-warming, with special thanks going to my wonderful previous brides Haley & Rebekah who agreed to be interviewed and supplied their time so generously in creating the “Say YES to the Right Dress” article, and to Sophie for her wonderful insight in “A Couples Story” of her journey to the I do’s!

There is also a small army of unsung helpers in brides-to-be who are booked with me for the future, that have been a mine of useful information when researching the marketability for this project, and deciding what articles should be included, and what they would find helpful in their journey, so thank you to them.

Finally, if you would like to purchase your copy, just go to www.cotswoldweddingguide.com. Being just me behind this project, I don’t have huge marketing clout so recommendations are a big part in helping it grow, so if you felt inclined, please share this post on your socials, and let any brides and grooms to be know about it. Please also give the social media accounts a follow by clicking instagram and facebook

something that I feel has been missing from my wedding planning

“This guide is just brilliant!!  Honestly, something that I feel has been missing from my wedding planning – an independent guide that you know isn’t paid-for advertising like in all the magazines.

Thorough the content, with ample ‘air-time’ to each topic, and I love the recommendations of different suppliers.

I particularly like the logistics/timing section, and the ‘real’ wedding interview at the Slaughters Manor.”

Jo Ledger

Contributers

Lee Hawley Photography – www.leehawleyphotography.com - 07540894286

Jacks Kitchen - www.jackskitchen.co.uk - 01242 226818

Hey Pesto – www.heypestocatering.co.uk – 01452 731902

Cotswold wedding hair - www.cotswoldweddinghair.com

Face Perfect by Jodi - www.faceperfectbyjodi.co.uk – 07595270200

Bridal prep rooms - www.thebridalpreprooms.co.uk – 07595270200 & 07789735691

Lauren Gosling - www.laurengoslinghair.com

Lovebird Make Up - www.lovebirdmakeup.co.uk – 07568330251

SJP Bridal - www.sjpbridal.co.uk – 01452698340

Cherish Cakes by Katherine - www.cherishcakes.co.uk – 01454269243

Tonys Toons – www.tonystoons.co.uk - 01452722980

Haley & Rebekah - Say YES to the Right Dress

Sophie - A Couples Story

 

Request  Brochure & Price List

This is not formal wedding photography

I tell your wedding story naturally and creatively. No awkward poses, no saying cheese. My goal is for you to feel like you have a friend as your photographer, and by doing that I capture you at your most you.

I truly invest in my couples, spending time to understand what makes you tick. Even if you don’t really know what you want, in a brief chat over coffee I will understand how best to approach your day, resulting in you being relaxed and able to enjoy your wedding and resulting in a set of images tailored to you.

​To receive my latest brochure and full price list, please complete the simple form . I’d also love to hear a bit about your day! Packages start from £695.

This is not a wedding production line, you will not be added to any mailing lists and I will reply to you in person

Posted by Lee Hawley
Hyde House – Gihani & Stuart

Hyde House – Gihani & Stuart

How do you plan a Cotswold wedding?

Cotswolds wedding photography is what I do, but planning a Cotswolds wedding requires more than choosing your wedding photographer. We have a thriving industry here that has grown around a remarkable array of quality wedding venues. Not only does this make Cotswold wedding photography the dream job, but also means I get to work with the best wedding suppliers in the business too.

For the couple it is about assembling your perfect team! You'll have your checklist of jobs to fill and I wholeheartedly recommend you meet them all before booking. The quality of their work is obviously essential, but nothing beat seeing the whites of their eyes to be sure you can trust them to deliver when it matters. But also to decide if they will be nice to work with. Your dsuppliers should add to your wedding experience, not detract from it.

Quick Links

Featured Wedding
Cotswold Wedding Shows
Bridal Prep Rooms
Engagement Shoots

Featured wedding - Hyde House - Gihani & Stuart

You can pretty much guarantee whenever Sandra Elizabeth (hair) and I get booked for the same wedding, the bride will be a total legend and the bridal prep on the day will be a lot of fun. This theory has been proven several times in 2019, with Gihani being a particular highlight.

Even for a Cotswold wedding photographer used to beautifyul venues, Hyde House is stunning. Purpose built for weddings with separate ceremony (both inside and outside) and wedding breakfast spaces, loads of indoor reception space, and beautiful gardens and grounds for when the sun shines. Not to mention a passionate and attentive team, which cannot be underestimated in having the perfect, trouble free day.

Gee and Stuart had the Grange for their ceremony.  A purpose built building exclusively for ceremonies, that they even got input from photographers on the lighting design. Gee looked incredible as she walked down the aisle. When you look below at the photos fill in your own caption for Stuarts face after he sees her!

The whole day was a dream to capture. Gee and Stuart didn’t stop smiling, and Hyde House provided the perfect back drop. Plus great inspiration for some their couples portraits.

Can’t wait to go back soon!

 

above all one of the nicest people

Hyde House Wedding Photography

Lee you are my hero, you could not have done for Stuart and I. All my friends loved you. Thank you so much. Got a little emotional looking at the photos We are both so lucky to have worked with an amazingly talented and above all one of the nicest people. Thank you so much for capturing our day. xxx

Gihanni & Stuart

Suppliers

Photography - Lee Hawley Photography

Hair - Sandra Elizabeth

Make-up - Florence Wear

Dress - Stella York

Venue - Hyde House

Video - David Grange

If that doesn’t get Hyde House on your short list of venues, nothing will! I am there at least twice next year, and cant wait to go back for more of my favourite Cotswold wedding photography.

If you have enjoyed reading this blog, you can find more here and to see more of my work on Instagram go to my galleries page!

Wedding Shows

The internet is of course the first stop when planning, and with many couples planning a Cotswold wedding living outside of the Cotswolds it's the only realistic way, but if you can get along to some of the high quality wedding shows we have in the county you can get a lot of jobs ticked off efficiently, including your Cotswold wedding photography. I am a regular at the Bride & Groom show at the Cheltenham Town hall every January and Autumn and the Cheltenham Race Course show in February and Autumn, amongst many others.

 

 

 

The Bridal Prep Rooms

A wedding doesn't start at the ceremony time. The morning of the day shouldn't be something to just get through, it should be part of the days fun and excitement, and by booking the right people it can be every bit as memorable as any other point of the day. Two people who understand this are Sandie and Jodi at the Bridal Prep Rooms who have set up a bespoke prep venue for exactly that! With many venues having compromised or no prep space at all, taking advantage of this space could make all the difference.

 

 

 

Should we have an engagement shoot?

There are a number of reasons why these are worth considering. The biggest being it gives you some experience working with your photographer. I love seeing couples go from quite apprehensive about what they are going to be expected to do, and finishing the “shoot” with a big sigh of relief that the hardest thing they’ve had to do is walk with their fiancé in the Cotswold countryside! Having this backdrop on our doorstep for these shoots is yet another joy of Cotswold wedding photography, so as well as the experience you will get some lovely photos too!

 

 

 

REQUEST A BROCHURE & PRICE LIST

This is not formal wedding photography

I tell your wedding story naturally and creatively. No awkward poses, no saying cheese. My goal is for you to feel like you have a friend as your photographer, and by doing that I capture you at your most you.

I truly invest in my couples, spending time to understand what makes you tick. Even if you don’t really know what you want, in a brief chat over coffee I will understand how best to approach your day, resulting in you being relaxed and able to enjoy your wedding and resulting in a set of images tailored to you.

​To receive my latest brochure and full price list, please complete the simple form . I’d also love to hear a bit about your day! Packages start from £695.

This is not a wedding production line, you will not be added to any mailing lists and I will reply to you in person

Posted by Lee Hawley
Red House Barn Wedding – Laura & David

Red House Barn Wedding – Laura & David

Redhouse Barn - Laura & David

Redhouse Barn Wedding Photographer

Venue

Redhouse Barn in Bromsgrove Worcestershire is a pretty special made to measure wedding venue. When it was converted it was a no half measure approach, and with no lack of thought. As an experienced wedding photographer I can see the many subtle details in its design that don’t happen by accident! Things like the subtle colour changeable lighting throughout the entire building that the couple can change to suit their colour scheme, and the way the layout is made to create a natural flow to the days proceedings and avoid the awkward “room turn around” period were people end up in a corridor whilst it is done as so often happens at other venues! Add to that a passionate family run team over seeing things, and you get a genuinely personal and special experience, which is why working as a Redhouse barn wedding photographer is so enjoyable and rewarding.

Laura & David obviously agree, as it is where they chose for their wedding, and me as their Redhouse Barn wedding photographer.

Wedding

I always say the venue is only half the factor in my enjoyment for a wedding day, and that the couple is the other, and Laura and David were so much fun to spend the day with.

The day got off to a great start in Redhouse Barns beautiful prep area with Laura chilled and her bridesmaids and family excited about the day ahead. During the prep time I shot all the details and I love Laura & Davids colour scheme. A really bold choice which is always a bit of a risk, but it looked amazing!

The ceremony took place in the barn itself followed by the reception quickly spilling out into the gardens in the sunshine. In the speeches we got some brilliant reactions from Laura as David did a cracking job of embarrassing her.

During the wedding breakfast I nipped off down the road in my car to check out a bridge I had found online and to check access. It was looking good, so at sunset Laura & David threw their trust in me and off we went. We first got a couple of banker shots in the fields, but what I really wanted was to use the grotty train bridge which provided a nice bit of irony when compared to our beautiful couple! Check out the photos below to see what we got!

Magic man

A special shout out needs to go to Christian Fletcher. On the morning of the wedding his 8 month pregnant wife was rushed into hospital, Christian got everything communicated to the venue and a plan B was formed for Christian to get there for the gap between speeches and the evening starting, which of course he made and performed as perfectly as ever.

Many of us in the wedding industry are “one man bands” and our business is our life and reputation as well as our livelihood, so when very rarely things like this happen it’s a horrible experience. I’m pleased to confirm all was eventually OK and Christian had a beautiful baby a few weeks later!

A big thank you to the Redhouse team for making me so welcome, a genuine pleasure to work with.

Can’t wait to go back soon.

 

What struck us at first was how he wasn’t pushing for a hard sell……instead he was interested in getting to get to know us both

Redhouse Barn Wedding Photography

We first met Lee at a wedding show in Cheltenham. What struck us at first was how he wasn’t pushing for a hard sell like a lot of other photographers were, but instead he was interested in getting to get to know us both. Ever since then Lee has been super friendly but professional and it helped make the day and photos far more relaxing. He captured our day perfectly and we were so happy with everything he did from start to finish. Even our guests were complimenting how brilliant he was.
We couldn’t believe how quickly he turned the photos around and it was a lovely touch sending us a small selection when he got home that very night.
We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Lee to anyone who is looking for a wedding photographer.

David & Laura

Suppliers

Dress - Brides of Solihull
Hair and make up - Amelia Bourne (Studio 142)
Cake - Tanya Goodacre (The Cotswold Cake Kitchen)
Flowers - Jackie Dean (Bluebell Wood Florist)
Band - Satellite Down
Decor - Hayley Nikopoulos (Decorative details)
Wedding favours - Mariusz Luczakowski (Chocolours)
Catering - Morgans
Magician- Christian Fletcher
Stationary - Louise Rowles (Louise Rowles designs)

 

If that doesn’t get Redhouse Barn on your short list of venues, nothing will! I cant wait to go back.

If you have enjoyed reading this blog, you can find more here and to see more of my work go to my instagram and my galleries page!

 

Redhouse Barn Wedding Photographer

REQUEST A BROCHURE & PRICE LIST

This is not formal wedding photography

I tell your wedding story naturally and creatively. No awkward poses, no saying cheese. My goal is for you to feel like you have a friend as your photographer, and by doing that I capture you at your most you.

I truly invest in my couples, spending time to understand what makes you tick. Even if you don’t really know what you want, in a brief chat over coffee I will understand how best to approach your day, resulting in you being relaxed and able to enjoy your wedding and resulting in a set of images tailored to you.

​To receive my latest brochure and full price list, please complete the simple form . I’d also love to hear a bit about your day! Packages start from £695.

This is not a wedding production line, you will not be added to any mailing lists and I will reply to you in person

Posted by Lee Hawley
Clevedon Hall Wedding – Alex & Doug

Clevedon Hall Wedding – Alex & Doug

Clevedon Hall - Alex & Doug

Clevedon Hall Wedding Photographer

I was recommended to Alex by Steve who’s wedding I shot in 2018. After meeting up for a drink, they booked me for their wedding at the wonderful Clevedon Hall.

A month before the wedding we met up at Clevedon hall to have a walk around the venue and the surrounding areas to discuss photo ideas for the wedding and see why its one of the top venues in the South West. With the pier being unavailable on the wedding day, we took the chance for some snaps there.

Wedding Day

The day itself quickly came around, and Clevedon Hall was looking epic in the summer sun. A real Jewel in the crown of South West wedding venues!

Alex was looking very calm during prep, and I had a great couple of hours capturing her and Doug and their respective teams get ready!

The ceremony was outside, and they don’t look much better than the Clevedon hall outdoor ceremony space! With vows and confetti nailed, Alex and Doug enjoyed a relaxed drinks reception.

The wedding breakfast was in the impressive orangery. Which is fully airconditioned! A huge plus point on a day like this.

During our prep we had discussed when sunset was, and that we wanted to get down to the “coast” for some shots with the setting sun. However as can be the way, the speeches ran late, resulting in the final word of the best mens speech being followed by Doug saying “we’ve gotta go guys!”. The three of us running down the driveway with minutes to spare!

It's moments like this that experience and competence really pays out. Not panicking, and being composed, and getting camera settings correct and quickly, which can be especially challenging shooting into a low sun and using off camera flash as I was in some of the photos. All the while keeping your couple relaxed and ideally enjoying themselves!

It worked perfectly, and resulted in one of the best ten minutes shooting of my year. A genuine “high five” moment that left me buzzing!

That wasn’t the end of the day either, with some great dancing, magic and shotskis!

It was a pleasure working with you and we are so happy we booked you.

Clevedon Hall wedding photography

We received our photos in the post yesterday and wanted to thank you so much for such beautiful photographs! We are so pleased with them and it was a joy to go through them and reminisce about our wedding day.

Everyone we have shared the photos with have have loved them and were really impressed with your work – as are we!

Thank you for working so hard both on the day and afterwards in order to send the photos to us. We will treasure the photos forever ?

It was a pleasure working with you and we are so happy we booked you.

Alex & Doug

Suppliers

 

 

If that doesn’t get Clevedon Hall on your short list of venues, nothing will! I cant wait to go back.

If you have enjoyed reading this blog, you can find more here and to see more of my work go to my galleries page!

 

Clevedon Hall Wedding Photographer

REQUEST A BROCHURE & PRICE LIST

This is not formal wedding photography

I tell your wedding story naturally and creatively. No awkward poses, no saying cheese. My goal is for you to feel like you have a friend as your photographer, and by doing that I capture you at your most you.

I truly invest in my couples, spending time to understand what makes you tick. Even if you don’t really know what you want, in a brief chat over coffee I will understand how best to approach your day, resulting in you being relaxed and able to enjoy your wedding and resulting in a set of images tailored to you.

​To receive my latest brochure and full price list, please complete the simple form . I’d also love to hear a bit about your day! Packages start from £695.

This is not a wedding production line, you will not be added to any mailing lists and I will reply to you in person

Posted by Lee Hawley
Stone Barn Wedding – Lizzy & Alex

Stone Barn Wedding – Lizzy & Alex

Stone Barn - Lizzy & Alex

Stone Barn Wedding Photographer

The right wedding photographer for the right couple is one of my mantras. This is why I am so transparent with my informal, relaxed and fun approach to shooting weddings, as it puts off as many as it attracts, but means I end up with epic couples who book me to shoot their weddings as if I’m a guest, and get them at their most natural!

Lizzy & Alex’s wedding was the perfect example of this. We clicked from our first meeting, and I had so much fun capturing their journey through the day.

Prep time is always a special part of the days story, and Lizzy’s crew were up there when it came to banter. You know it’s a relaxed bunch when upon your arrival the brides sister is having her hair done in little more than her bra and the bride says “don’t worry about her, she doesn’t care”!

Stone Barn in the Cotswolds was our home for the day, and what a place it is! Being a Cotswold wedding photographer im spoiled for brilliant venues, and Stone barn is one of my favourite venues to shoot, with so many lovely textures and spots to escape to for a photo.

The ceremony was quite simply the sort you laugh through with tears in your eyes. A wonderful celebration free of rigid traditions and deeply personal. Loved it.

During the wedding breakfast I was taking a well-earned break, when a shout went out “RAINBOW!!”, Iv never ran so fast! Trying to get cameras primed as I ran, and wrestling through the guests while Lizzy & Alex ran ahead of me into the field for me to get the shot! We got it guys! We got it! Seconds later the rainbow disappeared, and high fives were had all round!

 

 

To round the day off we were blessed with a clear sunset and I don’t need asking twice to make the most of one of those!

Check out the highlights gallery below!

 

 

He felt like a guest himself and just went above and beyond our dreams

Stone Barn wedding photography

Lee was absolutely phenomenal.
Definitely one of the best decisions we made about our wedding.
Photos are natural, creative, candid… captured every moment and the lovely honest faces of our guests.
He felt like a guest himself and just went above and beyond our dreams. Super lovely guy, totally understood us and put us at ease. We got photos to wake up too which helped the with the post-wedding blues and a beautiful unique pack in the post only a couple weeks after the wedding!!!!!
It’s so special to have photos to treasure forever and I’m genuinely sad we won’t see him again!
Thank you so much Lee.

Lizzy & Alex

Suppliers

Photography - Lee Hawley Photography

Venue – Stone Barn, Cripps and Co

Flowers – Go Wild Flowers

Hair – Lauren Gosling

Cake – Marina Lavinia Ragabeja

Dress – Boho Bride

 

If that doesn’t get Stone Barn on your short list of venues, nothing will! I cant wait to go back.

If you have enjoyed reading this blog, you can find more here and to see more of my work go to my galleries page!

 

Stone Barn Wedding Photographer

REQUEST A BROCHURE & PRICE LIST

This is not formal wedding photography

I tell your wedding story naturally and creatively. No awkward poses, no saying cheese. My goal is for you to feel like you have a friend as your photographer, and by doing that I capture you at your most you.

I truly invest in my couples, spending time to understand what makes you tick. Even if you don’t really know what you want, in a brief chat over coffee I will understand how best to approach your day, resulting in you being relaxed and able to enjoy your wedding and resulting in a set of images tailored to you.

​To receive my latest brochure and full price list, please complete the simple form . I’d also love to hear a bit about your day! Packages start from £695.

This is not a wedding production line, you will not be added to any mailing lists and I will reply to you in person

Posted by Lee Hawley
Eastington Park – Summer Double

Eastington Park – Summer Double

Eastington Park - Summer Double

Eastington Park Wedding Photographer

I had the pleasure of shooting two weddings at Eastington Park this summer. A genuine favourite of mine, and a venue that get everything spot on. It does bridal prep very well, with more than enough space for a large bridal party, and room design perfect for the job.

If its wet there loads of beautiful indoor space, and if its sunny like we were blessed with this year, it has gorgeous gardens for guests to enjoy.

Throw in exclusive hire and a specialist weddings team, and you have a venue that makes you wedding personal and special and one of the best for Gloucestershire Wedding Photography.

 

Grace & Bob

Grace and Bob were so much fun to work with. You can see from the photos they barely stop laughing, and with the desire for their day being relaxed and informal, I had a great time shooting it.

Christian Fletcher was on hand with his brilliant magic to entertain the guests during the reception. I love shoot magicians, capturing the reactions and telling trick through images. I never get close to working out how they do any of it either!

One of the geeky things I like to do for each wedding is to know exactly where and when sunset will be, as if it’s a clear day it is always a bonus to make the most of it with some snaps. On the day of Grace & Bobs wedding I had worked out that about 20 mins before sunset the sun would be perfectly aligned with the treeline driveway! We got out after the first dance just in time, and by doing a little trick of light with the sun we got an epic ring of fire too!

It was clear that this isn’t just a job for Lee, it is a calling and a real passion

Lee was outstanding.

He offers a truly professional, high-quality service, and he is exceptionally amiable. From the moment we met him we were impressed with the style of his photographs and his relaxed yet professional manner.

Lee has been faultless throughout our experience. We felt that he took the time to get to know us and what we wanted. He blended seamlessly into the wedding party enabling him to take subtle shots which captured the essence our wedding day.

It was clear that this isn’t just a job for Lee, it is a calling and a real passion. Worth every penny!

Grace & Bob

Suppliers

Photography - Lee Hawley Photography

Hair & Make-up - Perfect Pampering

Dress - Wedding Days

Catering & Cake - Berry Blue

Venue - Eastington Park

Magic - Christian Fletcher

Lauren & Martin

Lauren & Martins wedding came a month or so later and was blessed with pretty much the same weather bar a late rain shower which threatened the outdoor ceremony, but cleared up in time!

Another fun wedding prep with Lauren and her team, and loads of pretty details to shoot too. The outdoor ceremony was beautiful followed by a reception with loads of fun and games as the photos below show!

Now, Martin will be the first to say how having his photo taken was not something he was relishing! But instead of it becoming taboo, with Laurens help we turned this into a bit of a running joke, and got some great moments of the two of them together!

Berry Blue did another amazing job with the catering, which I can vouch for as I was fortunate to get a meal too!

The cherry on the cake was a gorgeous clear sunset! Perfect!

on the day itself it was like having a friend there

Lee has been absolutely brilliant from start to finish! As soon as we met Lee at the Cheltenham Town Hall Wedding Show we knew that we wanted him as our wedding photographer. When we met Lee he was friendly and approachable which really put us both at ease. Throughout the planning process he was always at the end of an email if needed and was happy to answer any questions we had. We would definitely recommend doing the pre-wedding photoshoot. As two people who aren’t used to posing for photos this really helped us to understand what to expect on the day. Lee took the time to talk to us and put us at ease. We sat and discussed the wedding day, whether there were any particular photos we wanted, timings and Lee gave us some great recommendations too. On the day itself it was like having a friend there. He blended in to the guests and everyone commented on how lovely and professional he was! His style of photography was exactly what we wanted with some official, posed for family group shots, but mostly relaxed and natural shots, most of the time we didn’t even know we were having our photos taken! And the photos didn’t disappoint! They are absolutely gorgeous and are a brilliant representation of our special day. Thank you so much Lee. We will be recommending you to everyone!

Lauren & Martin

Suppliers

Photography - Lee Hawley Photography

Venue: Eastington Park

Hair: Bridal by Kirsty Matthews

Make up: Love bird make up

Wedding Dress: Wed2b

Cake: Frost and Crumb 

Cake topper: Artlocke Designs

Bridesmaid dresses: The Cotswold Wedding Company

Suits: Slaters

Flowers: 1st Choice Florist

Table decorations: The Wedding and Event Works

Videographers : Lucky Feather

Catering: Berry Blue 

Disco: Major Entertainment LTD

 

If that doesn’t get Eastington Park your short list of venues, nothing will! I am there at least twice next year, and cant wait to go back.

If you have enjoyed reading this Eastington Park Wedding Photographer blog, you can find more here and to see more of my work go to my galleries page!

REQUEST A BROCHURE & PRICE LIST

This is not formal wedding photography

I tell your wedding story naturally and creatively. No awkward poses, no saying cheese. My goal is for you to feel like you have a friend as your photographer, and by doing that I capture you at your most you.

I truly invest in my couples, spending time to understand what makes you tick. Even if you don’t really know what you want, in a brief chat over coffee I will understand how best to approach your day, resulting in you being relaxed and able to enjoy your wedding and resulting in a set of images tailored to you.

​To receive my latest brochure and full price list, please complete the simple form . I’d also love to hear a bit about your day! Packages start from £695.

This is not a wedding production line, you will not be added to any mailing lists and I will reply to you in person

Posted by Lee Hawley
Marquee & DIY Wedding Photography

Marquee & DIY Wedding Photography

Marquee & DIY Wedding

For many its the dream wedding, a marquee in a field or an old barn you've made your own. The ultimate in relaxed laid back informal wedding. No agenda to follow but your own, completely personal and unique to you. I know because in 2012 thats exactly what me and my wife did for our wedding. They are high risk, as the British weather can have a larger effect on the day than a bespoke venue or hotel, but the pay off can be so worth it, and is why I love my marquee wedding photography, and the South West is a great area for finding the perfect spot!

 

They can be a bit of a catch 22, as many people who are drawn to a DIY wedding, do so because they want the relaxed casual style of wedding, but to successfully execute such a day takes more than your average wedding prep. These two weddings from this year swallowed a brave pill and went for it!

 

Debs & Lee

Hard to know where to start with these guys massive ambition! They turned an old barn, full to the rafters with their local farmers life collection of "stuff" into an epic wedding venue, completely personal to them. I went to meet them a couple of weeks before the wedding date at the barn, and it was still full of farming equpiment, let alone ready for the wedding decore to be moved in!

The transformation was amazing, and my day with them was an absolute joy.

You have captured two very happy souls to perfection

DIY Wedding Photography

Wow Wow Wow Unbelievably beautiful, You are very very talented. You have captured two very happy souls to perfection. The photo pack is just so lovely, what a super way to give them too us. I look at the photos on my phone everyday, they are seriously amazing. It was a wonderful day and you have captured it beautifully.

Debs & Lee

Ellen & Jacob

You cant beat a marquee in a field next to a river can you? You also can't beat a couple like Ellen & Jacob. Super chilled, which itself is remarkable considering within the month of their wedding they had moved house AND had a baby!! A lot of my couples are doing one or the other whilst prepping for their wedding, but never all 3 in a month. Remarkable.

..we’re really glad we chose you to join us on our special day

Thank you so much for everything you did for us, we are thrilled with the photos!! All the guests we’ve spoken to have also said how professional you are, and we’re really glad we chose you to join us on our special day. We always said the photographer was one of the things we wanted to get right and we definitely did, your style was exactly what we were looking for and the quality of the photos are brilliant. It’s been so nice to be able to look through and see so many natural photos and happy guests

Ellen & Jacob

Suppliers

If you have enjoyed this marquee wedding photography page, you can read more about my work here and on Instagram to see my latest work you can see loads on my galleries page

Request a Brochure & Ppricelist

This is not formal wedding photography

I tell your wedding story naturally and creatively. No awkward poses, no saying cheese. My goal is for you to feel like you have a friend as your photographer, and by doing that I capture you at your most you.

I truly invest in my couples, spending time to understand what makes you tick. Even if you don’t really know what you want, in a brief chat over coffee I will understand how best to approach your day, resulting in you being relaxed and able to enjoy your wedding and resulting in a set of images tailored to you.

​To receive my latest brochure and full price list, please complete the simple form . I’d also love to hear a bit about your day! Packages start from £695.

This is not a wedding production line, you will not be added to any mailing lists and I will reply to you in person

Posted by Lee Hawley
Hare & Hound Tetbury – Summer & Winter

Hare & Hound Tetbury – Summer & Winter

Hare & Hound Tetbury - Summer & Winter

Hare & Hound Tetbury Wedding Photographer

Tetbury in the Cotswolds is a crazy competative place for wedding venues, with 3 of my absolute favourites bespoke venues all within a 5 min drive of each other. So to stand out whilst competing in that enviroment is no mean feet, and Hare & Hound Tetbury does.

It helps as always having great couples, and I certainly had that with Ewout & Chirs, and Leanne & Chris.

Hare & Hounds is part of the Cotswold Inn group, and has their trademark quality accross everything they do!

Summer - Ewout & Chris

OK, so this wedding wasnt strictley speaking in Summer, actually taking place in April, but have a look at the photos and you'll see it tops most actual summers days. Plus I had to put suncream on so im counting it as summer.

Ewout & Chris were up my non-intrusive approach, with Chris esspecially being apprehensive of the prospect of having his photo taken. Thankfully the engagement shoot went a good way to reducing these concerns and the feedback on their testimonial below shows how well their photography experience went.

With half the guests coming from the Netherlands it was a unique occasion for the guys to have all their friends and families together, and my responsability to capture this once in a lifetime day! I absolutely loved it. Simply loads of happy people enjoying themselves in a beautiful setting. The attention to detail from Ewout and Chris was also a joy to shoot. I particularly enjoyed the paper boquets and detailing by Stems from Paper.

I hope you enjoy the photos below, and keep readiing for the Winter wedding below!

Lee has a great way of making you feel comfortable

It is hard to put into words the joy we have from looking at the amazing wedding photos that Lee took of the most spectacular day of our lives, but here’s a try.

From the get-go Lee was great at making myself and my now husband feel at ease in front of his camera. The engagement shoot really helped with us getting to know him, and it really felt like Lee was able to get to know us as a couple as well.

Knowing that most people are quite uncomfortable with having their pictures taken, Lee has a great way of making you feel comfortable. His candid style of photography, capturing moments that would otherwise be missed, has just proven to give us some of the best gems of the day! Lee was able to capture a glimpse of people’s experience of our wedding day, experiences due to the busy schedule of a wedding day we otherwise wouldn’t have known about. The day itself felt magical, and in every picture that Lee took he was able to capture it.

Lee went above and beyond, helping out with technical difficulties and sorting out some behind the scene issues. He even went as far as falling over, saving his cameras on the way down though, an impressive ninja roll later he stood up, shrugged it off – a hazard of the job – he said.

Our wedding day, the lead up to it, was made more special by having Lee and his personal style be a part of it. The delivery of the pictures was quick and very prompt. Having some pictures to wake up to the day after the wedding was just awesome, and to have them all ready within a week just surpassed any expectation that we had.

The quality of the pictures and the absolute joy we have by looking back at them really can’t be put into words, but if you’re looking for an authentic and genuine wedding photographer, someone who takes the time to get to know you as a couple, then look no further than Lee Hawley.

Ewout & Chris

Suppliers

Highlights

Leanne & Chris

Leanne & Chris’s wedding genuinely was in winter, but that didn’t stop the Lee Hawley Photography good weather charm giving us some beautiful sunshine. Winter weddings are often seen as a gamble, but provided you have a venue that can accommodate you and your guests inside, there’s nothing to fear. Leanne & Chris had a relaxed family wedding, their young family being central to proceedings and the Hare & Hound proving the perfect venue.

his ability to capture moments and emotions as your day unfolds is amazing

Lee Hawley Photography - Hare & Hounds Tetbury - gloucestershire wedding photogapher

Lee is a wonderful choice for a wedding photographer. He is dedicated, with no limit on his hours – he was there with us from when we were getting ready to our last dance! His background as a photojournalist really shines through – his ability to capture moments and emotions as your day unfolds is amazing. He is a very gifted photographer, and a pleasure to work with as well (no huge ego like other wedding photographers I have met). I would recommend Lee to anyone who wants to capture the real moments of their day!

Leanne & Chris

Highlights

If that doesn’t get the Hare & Hound on your short list of venues, nothing will! I cant wait to go back, and already have more bookings there in diary. If you are considering me as your Hare & Hound Tetbury wedding photographer, just fill in the form at the bottom of this page!

If you have enjoyed reading this blog, you can find more here and to see more of my work go to my galleries page!

Request a Brochure & Ppricelist

This is not formal wedding photography

I tell your wedding story naturally and creatively. No awkward poses, no saying cheese. My goal is for you to feel like you have a friend as your photographer, and by doing that I capture you at your most you.

I truly invest in my couples, spending time to understand what makes you tick. Even if you don’t really know what you want, in a brief chat over coffee I will understand how best to approach your day, resulting in you being relaxed and able to enjoy your wedding and resulting in a set of images tailored to you.

​To receive my latest brochure and full price list, please complete the simple form . I’d also love to hear a bit about your day! Packages start from £695.

This is not a wedding production line, you will not be added to any mailing lists and I will reply to you in person

Posted by Lee Hawley
Priors Court Barn – Hannah & Joe

Priors Court Barn – Hannah & Joe

Priors Court Barn - Hannah & Joe

Priors Court Barn Wedding Photographer

Priors Court Barn Wedding Photographer

Priors Court Barn is a gorgeous barn wedding venue near Cheltenham, with the added bonus of being part of Brockworth Court that has the most beautiful gardens for a wedding reception and photo opportunities. I’m a fan!

Hannah & Joe

I’m also a fan of Hannah & Joe! With a relaxed, fun and happy wedding planned, they trusted me to mix in and do my thing. The ceremony was at St Pauls Church in in Cheltenham, and as always I’m looking for a unique perspective. I spotted the fairy lights hanging across from the balcony immediately so asked one of the team their if I could get access? They were very keen to oblige, which gave me the opportunity to get the shot below! This is an example of where I have a vision in my mind, and it turns out even better! Shots like this are so exciting for me, and one of the big kicks I get out of doing this job.

It was so much fund spending the day with them both, and once I have that buy-in from my couples it can really pay off with some of the photos. One example is during our pre wedding consultation, Hannah had mentioned she really wanted a photo with Chosen Hill in the background, but sadly due to building work nearby the hill was blocked from view from the venue. So on the way back from the ceremony I double checked a little layby a km up the road I’d scoped out earlier in the week, and found it was mostly dry. So I swung back round to catch Hannah & Joe as they arrived from the church, and knowing they’d probably trust my judgment, they were up for heading over there! It was well worth the ten mins it took, and we got Hannah her Chosen Hill photo!

The Brockworth Court gardens played host to a beautiful sunny Spring reception, and Hey Pesto did a great job of the canapes, and the wedding breakfast itself.

You’ll see from the photos below, that the barn looked mega and was a great back drop to the speeches.

Enjoy the highlights gallery below!

this guy needs to be shouted about!

Priors Court Barn Wedding Photographer

We asked to give a review, because this guy needs to be shouted about! From our first meeting it was very clear Lee wanted to get to know us as a couple and ensure he gave us exactly what we were after. On our special day, he blended into the background allowing us to feel very relaxed and comfortable from start to finish. The photos he has taken are beyond what we asked for and he even managed to arrange a photograph in a location we thought wasn’t possible! He captured moments we didn’t see on the day and we cannot stop looking at our photos! We highly recommend him for your special day, as he captured ours perfectly.

Hannah & Joe

Suppliers

Make up - Lovebird Make Up
Hair - Evissa Hair
Dress - Linda Gray Bridal
Catering - Hey Pesto

 

Priors Court Barn Wedding Photographer

If you have enjoyed this Priors Court Barn Wedding Photographer blog, you can read more here and to see my latest work you can see loads on my galleries page

Request  Brochure & Price List

This is not formal wedding photography

I tell your wedding story naturally and creatively. No awkward poses, no saying cheese. My goal is for you to feel like you have a friend as your photographer, and by doing that I capture you at your most you.

I truly invest in my couples, spending time to understand what makes you tick. Even if you don’t really know what you want, in a brief chat over coffee I will understand how best to approach your day, resulting in you being relaxed and able to enjoy your wedding and resulting in a set of images tailored to you.

​To receive my latest brochure and full price list, please complete the simple form . I’d also love to hear a bit about your day! Packages start from £695.

This is not a wedding production line, you will not be added to any mailing lists and I will reply to you in person

Posted by Lee Hawley
Cripps Barn – Amy & Kieren

Cripps Barn – Amy & Kieren

Cripps Barn - Amy & Kieren

Cripps Barn Wedding Photographer

Set in the middle of beautiful rolling Cotswold countryside, Cripps Barn is one of the venues everyone in the Industry knows and loves. Focused purely on delivering special tailor made weddings, and a photographers dream!

As for Amy & Kieren, they couldn’t have made my job easier! As well as being friendly, welcoming and wanting my relaxed approach to wedding photography, they were an absolute joy to be around. Amy’s cheeks by the end of the day must have ached from smiling so much, which made every photo with her in shine!

We had a beautiful spring day, that at times resembled peak summer, and Cripps Barn was able to show off its gorgeous outdoor ceremony space. I love shooting outdoor ceremonies. They can be a risk/reward decision, as when weather is suspect (that’ll be always then) it can cause a late change of plan. But when they pay off, they’re amazing!

Our couples portraits were a blast. With a rapeseed field on the door step it seemed a crime not to use it, resulting in one of the days many memorable moments.

And with an amazing clear sunset, I captured some lovely moments as Amy & Kieren spent a few minutes away from it all taking stock! Including using the sun for an an epic “ring of fire” pic, which is one of my favourite little “tricks” I have in my kit bag!

With the day not quite over, there was plenty of dancing and fun still to be had, and I left with yet another highlight of the year already!

Check out the highlights gallery below.

Thanks for having me guys!

having you there was like enjoying our day with another special guest

cripps barn wedding photography

We don’t even need to wait for all of our wedding photos to be ready to say that Lee is incredible at his job! What we’ve already seen (from our pre-wedding shoot to our sneak peak of our wedding day) has made two newlyweds smile from ear to ear. He clearly loves what he does, captures the most amazing moments in a photograph and is a wonderful person too.

As my brother said, “When did you manage to sneak off to have photographs taken in the fields!?” Lee seizes the moment so easily that you’re never away from your beloved guests for too long.

Thank you so much – we can’t wait to see the rest! ??

On completion on photos – These are absolutely incredible – thank you SO much! We loved every minute and having you there was like enjoying our day with another special guest. Everyone’s commented on how great you were – thank you, thank you, thank you!

Amy & Kieren

Suppliers

Venue - Cripps Barn

Hair & Make up - Face Perfect by Jodie Croft

Wedding car - Satin & Lace

Dress - A-Z Wedding Services

Suits - Ted Baker from Moss Bross

DJ - Oxygen Discos

Wedding Favour - British Heart Foundation pins

Cake - Nanny Teri!

If you have enjoyed this Cripps Barn Wedding Photographer blog, you can read more here and to see my latest work you can see loads on my galleries page

Request  Brochure & Price List

This is not formal wedding photography

I tell your wedding story naturally and creatively. No awkward poses, no saying cheese. My goal is for you to feel like you have a friend as your photographer, and by doing that I capture you at your most you.

I truly invest in my couples, spending time to understand what makes you tick. Even if you don’t really know what you want, in a brief chat over coffee I will understand how best to approach your day, resulting in you being relaxed and able to enjoy your wedding and resulting in a set of images tailored to you.

​To receive my latest brochure and full price list, please complete the simple form . I’d also love to hear a bit about your day! Packages start from £695.

This is not a wedding production line, you will not be added to any mailing lists and I will reply to you in person

Posted by Lee Hawley