Joey & Oliver - A Perfectly Styled Summer Wedding for Childhood Sweethearts at Duddon Mill Farm - Cheshire Wedding Photography
“Know we’re jumpin’ the gun, but we’re both still young
One day, we won’t be
Didn’t know what I want ‘til I saw your face
Said goodbye to the old me
Came out of nowhere, didn’t give no warnin’
Pedal so heavy, like the two most wanted, and I
Don’t know what you’re doin’ tonight, but I
I’ll be your shotgun rider ‘til the day I die
Smoke out the window flyin’ down the 405
And I’ll be your backseat baby
Drivin’ you crazy anytime you like”
Photographing Joey & Oliver's beautifully sunny wedding at Duddon Mill Farm in Cheshire was nothing short of a dream. It was one of those picture-perfect days where every element seamlessly came together, creating a backdrop so stunning it made my job almost too easy.
I arrived for prep just before 12, and Joey was just having her final makeup touchups by the incredibly talented Yasmin Schwitzer. Around her, there was a flurry of activity and joyous chatter as bridesmaids (and bridesman Adam!) and close family members pitched in, making sure that every detail was right. Helping Joey into her stunning corseted gown from The Aisle was truly a team effort — and the result was worth every tug and adjustment. She looked absolutely radiant. I’ve LOVED the recent trend of adding scattered pearls to the final hair, it adds that perfect contemporary extra!
Chelsea at Seed & Wild worked her floral magic, creating arrangements and installations that seemed to have been plucked straight out of a fairy tale. Every table and archway was a testament to her incredible eye for detail and love for the craft. The monogrammed napkins for all the guests, the fabric printed signage, and the pizza & cocktail trucks proved that Joey had thoughtfully considered every possible element of the day.
St Helen's Church in Tarporley was the venue for the ceremony. I made my way there, camera in hand and anticipation in my heart, perfectly positioned for Joey and her dad Mark's arrival in the classic car he had lovingly restored for the occasion. It was a poignant sight—Mark beaming with pride, and Joey, simply glowing.
The happy couple’s beloved dachshund Mabel doubled as flower girl, escorted by Adam, & she opened the ceremony to giggles and gasps (promptly barking at anyone who dared clap or cheer!) As Joey walked down the aisle, her childhood sweetheart Oliver was overcome with emotion. Capturing that tear-streaked joy on his face is a moment I won't soon forget. The ceremony was a tapestry of heartfelt vows, soft lighting, and overwhelming love. As they exited the church, we showered the newlyweds with confetti—a timeless tradition that never loses its charm.
Back at Duddon Mill Farm, the festivities continued. Guests mingled over canapés, played lawn games, and listened to speeches that were both hilarious and touching. A massive shoutout to bridesmaid Ashleigh who truly brought the house down with a speech that both roasted Joey & paid tribute to their years of loving friendship. It was genuinely one of the very best I’ve heard! Just before I left, we celebrated with a champagne spray that the entire wedding party ran through, capturing their elation and utter happiness.
Joey & Oliver truly thought of everything, and this beautifully styled day was a testament to their vision and love. It was a gorgeous day, one that I felt incredibly honoured to document.
