Harriet & Paul

A Relaxed Spring West Mill Wedding

I first met Harriet and Paul through a mutual friend, so I knew from the start that their wedding was going to be a brilliant, relaxed day. As a natural photographer in Derbyshire, there’s nothing better than working with a couple who just want to enjoy the moment. Their spring celebration at this stunning Derby mill venue was the perfect fit for that ‘no faff’ vibe, with the industrial history of Darley Abbey providing a stunning backdrop to all the laughter.

The light at the West Mill is always a highlight for me. Even on a chilly April day, the huge factory windows and open spaces mean there’s so much room for the guests to mingle in, and so much natural light to play with, I can get right in there amongst the action and not have to rely on using flash. From the emotional ceremony on the top floor to the competitive table football in the evening, it was a joy to document their story exactly as it happened.

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Bridal Prep in an Industrial Dressing Room

Harriet and her party had their hair and make-up done by the fabulous girls at Elysium Hair. When I met up with them all at the mill, it was super relaxed, and they had plenty of time to chat, drink champagne and enjoy the morning! Corks were popped, and gifts were exchanged before it was time for Harriet’s dress to make its entrance.

It was an emotional ceremony, with Paul clearly a little overcome once he caught sight of Harriet walking down the aisle to marry him. The top floor is such a fabulous setting for a wedding ceremony. I just love all the textures; the tiled floor, the brick walls and the fantastic old metal ceiling.

Wedding Reception at a Converted Mill

Despite the chilly April weather, we braved the outdoors for a confetti tunnel! Just look at their happy faces! No way you’d think it was blowing an icy gale! Thankfully, there’s plenty of room indoors, which is one of the reasons this is such a great all-year-round venue. We all gathered on the ground floor, where the guests enjoyed the drinks, the comfy sofas, and the table football!

We were treated to a sunny evening, and managed to grab a few photos in that lovely golden-hour light after the speeches. Then it was back indoors for the rest of the evening. Cake cutting, the first dance, plenty of kids on the dance floor, and some good chats with friends and family.