Pengenna Manor Wedding
Kirsty and Sam tied the knot at the absolutely beautiful Pengenna Manor, and I have to say – what a venue! It was my first time working there, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Tucked away in a quiet, secluded valley just three miles from the North Cornish coast, Pengenna Manor is an 800-year-old private estate set in over 300 acres of stunning Cornish countryside. Completely exclusive, it offers a gorgeous rustic barn, fabulous gardens, and breathtaking views – the perfect setting for a wedding.
Do You Remember Saturday, 7th June?
Yes – it was the rainy one! Kirsty had been keeping a close eye on the weather in the lead-up to the big day, and understandably, she was disappointed when the rain came hammering down. The ceremony had to move indoors, but honestly, it turned out to be such a beautiful, intimate atmosphere inside the ceremony room – cosy, close, and filled with love.
And then, as if perfectly timed, the rain stopped just as Kirsty and Sam said their vows. We all made it outside for the confetti toss and the all-important whole group photo before the showers returned. Timing was truly on our side! A little later, another quick shower passed through, but soon cleared, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the garden games, drinks, and the stunning surroundings of Pengenna Manor.
The Details
Now, let’s talk about Kirsty’s dress – I absolutely adored it! It was beautifully crafted by the talented Sophie Rose Bridal – effortlessly elegant and perfectly suited to Kirsty’s style. Her makeup was simply beautiful, thanks to Hannah Symons, and her gorgeous up-do was styled by Emma Carlyle.
The flowers were another standout – locally sourced from Mellangoose Flower Farm, and lovingly arranged by Kirsty herself. She did an incredible job – her flower displays were stunning! Sam’s mum also played a special role, creating their wedding cake and adding some delicious doughnuts into the mix – such a lovely, personal touch.
As if perfectly timed, the rain stopped just as Kirsty and Sam said their vows. That break in the weather gave us the chance to gather everyone in the garden for the much-anticipated confetti shot – and it didn’t disappoint! Just look at Kirsty and Sam’s smiles as they walked through their confetti tunnel – pure joy. After the confetti shot its often a good opportunity to get the whole group, eveeryone is super excited and its a lovely way to start the mingling of your guests. The couple didn’t want lots of formal group photos, but they did request a few key shots with close family and friends. This part of the day is often seen as a bit of a chore, but honestly, it doesn’t have to be! I can get these group shots done in seconds – fun, informal, and professional – as long as you bring the energy. Together, we can make them quick and enjoyable, and still capture those important memories.
Candid shots
These are natural, unposed photos that capture genuine moments as they happen. The subjects are usually unaware they’re being photographed, which results in authentic expressions and emotions — laughter, tears, surprise, joy.I love taking the candid photography shots focusing on storytelling through real interactions rather than staged poses. Allowing time in your day for shots like these is priceless.
Choosing Your Wedding Venue — Why It Matters
Choosing the right venue is one of the most important decisions you'll make when planning your wedding. Your venue sets the tone for the entire day — it shapes the atmosphere, the backdrop for your photos, and the experience your guests will remember. Whether it’s a rustic barn, a historic manor, or a beachside retreat, your venue reflects you as a couple.
That’s why I always make sure to capture plenty of photos of the place you chose to say “I do.” You’ve spent time, care, and thought selecting that perfect setting, and I want you to be able to look back and see not just the people and moments, but the beautiful surroundings that made your day truly yours. From sweeping landscape shots to the little details that make the venue special — it all helps tell the full story of your wedding day.
The Magic of Wedding Speeches
Why do we have wedding speeches? This tradition actually goes back centuries — historically, wedding toasts were a way to wish the couple happiness, prosperity, and good fortune in their new life together. In many cultures, they symbolised the joining of two families and were seen as an important public declaration of support and goodwill. Over time, speeches have evolved into a moment to share stories, express gratitude, and celebrate the people we love.
Personally, I adore capturing the speeches. It’s during these moments that people really open their hearts — they aren’t afraid to say how they feel, to tell everyone just how incredible the people they love truly are. The raw emotion, the pride, the laughter, the tears — it’s always so special.
Kirsty and Sam’s speeches didn’t disappoint when it came to emotion. Heartfelt and funny in equal measure, they had everyone — including me! — shedding a tear. It was a beautiful reminder of why these words matter so much, and why they’re such a highlight of the day.
Dance Floor Magic
One of my absolute favourite parts of any wedding is the dancing in the evening. I love capturing people on the dance floor — friends and family enjoying each other, lost in the music, laughing, singing, and letting go. When everyone is in the moment, belting out the words to a classic old-school song we all know by heart, it’s the perfect opportunity to get those real candid shots that truly show the spirit of the day. The energy, the fun, the connection — those moments make for some of the most memorable photos!
Sam added an extra special touch to the evening by choosing the first dance song as a surprise for Kirsty — such a lovely, personal gesture that made the moment even more meaningful.
When it came to the evening music, Kirsty and Sam were really keen to find a local singer for their celebration. From the first time they came across Duncan Godefroy Acoustic online, they fell in love with his voice. Duncan had an amazing repertoire of songs, and the couple were able to choose a large selection to be played, which made the music feel truly personal to them. As an extra bonus, Duncan is also a DJ, so after his brilliant live acoustic set, he kept the party going late into the night.
A Few Words From Kirsty & Sam
Honestly, I can’t express enough how honoured I feel to have the job that I do. Capturing a couple’s special day is such a privilege. The pressure can sometimes feel overwhelming — even after 20 years! — because I care so much about getting it right. But it’s always, always worth it when I leave to happy faces and excited vibes at the end of the night.
Here’s what Kirsty and Sam had to say:
“I don’t know how we will ever be able to thank you enough for the way you captured our wedding day.
As soon as we met you, we knew you were the right photographer for us — you were so friendly, relaxed, and we loved the style of your photography.
When you first proposed the pre-wedding/engagement shoot, we weren’t that keen and didn’t think it would be our thing, but once you explained that it would be a really nice introduction to the camera it totally made sense. We also love the photos.
For the wedding day itself, we couldn’t have asked for anything more. It was so lovely when you arrived, and for that reason I’m so glad we had the pre-shoot, because you just kind of slotted in with our friends and family — it was perfect — and you made everyone feel so comfortable.
Throughout the day, you got the perfect balance of casual group shots and people mingling, as well as some amazing ones of the two of us, which is exactly what we wanted, and we love our photos — the daisies are our favourite.
We also think the rain has actually added a special something, which is something we weren’t expecting.
We’re so glad we found you and will be forever grateful for how you’ve captured our day. You went above and beyond to work around wild Cornish weather, were super patient, and made everyone feel super relaxed (I think there were some particular members of our family who were very keen for you to join them at their table — that’s how relaxed they felt!).”
Kirsty & Sam xx
