Mike & Abi’s Sunny August Wedding at St Swithen’s & The Maynard

Mike and Abi’s wedding was one of those true, golden August days — the kind where the sun is already beaming before most people have even finished their first cuppa. By 10am, the heat was building, spirits were high, and the day ahead was already promising to be something special.

Morning Prep: Shirt Panic & Kitchen Roll Solutions

I began the morning with Mike and the guys at home, and surprisingly, everything was running smoothly—well, except for one missing best man’s shirt! There’s nothing like a missing shirt to get everyone laughing before the day has even started. Fortunately, it was located just in time, and peace was restored.

Mike unwrapped a stunning Tissot watch Abi had surprised him with — the perfect touch of elegance, and a lovely moment to capture before I left the chaps to their tie-tying masterclass.

Just around the corner, Abi and her besties were deep into their getting-ready morning at her parents’ house. Ultra-organised, full of excitement, and doing everything they could to keep cool in the heat. There may or may not have been some kitchen-roll-under-the-armpits strategies in play… absolutely no judgement from me, in fact a very sensible move I thought.

Abi wanted to do a first look with her dad in the garden — a space he’s incredibly proud of — so we made sure that moment happened right in the middle of the borders and blooms he loves. The reactions were priceless. There’s nothing quite like seeing a group of people absolutely floored by how beautiful a bride looks, and Abi completely stole the show. Even the neighbours lined the street to wave them off as the VW Beetle and Campervan arrived to whisk everyone to church.

A Joyful Ceremony at St Swithen’s, Holmesfield

By the time we reached St Swithen’s, the guests were already gathering with programmes doubling as fans and even some real portable fans. Abi arrived with the rest of the wedding party in one of the happiest convoys you’ll ever see.

Inside, the ceremony was led by one of the cheeriest vicars I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with — warm, funny, and wholly invested in making sure the occasion felt joyful. After the “I do’s” and a rousing hymn or two, everyone spilt outside into the sun for confetti, hugs, and more fanning.

Peak District Adventures: Lawrence Field & Surprise View

Before heading to the reception, Mike and Abi had one request: a quick dash into the Peak District. So off we went to Lawrence Field and Surprise View for some portraits among the stunning moorland and gritstone edges. Warm breeze, big views, and two people who couldn’t stop smiling — absolute perfection.

The Maynard: Terrace Drinks, Roaming Sax & Napkin Swinging

Arriving at The Maynard, Mike and Abi were welcomed onto the terrace by their entire wedding party — a wall of cheers, hugs, and a lot of delighted faces. Drinks flowed, canapés disappeared at lightning speed, and everyone soaked up the sunshine.

When the newlyweds made their entrance into the wedding breakfast, the roaming sax took the energy to another level. Napkins were swinging, people were on their feet, and the whole room erupted. It’s the kind of moment I never get bored with photographing — total joy, pure chaos, and the best way to start a meal.

Shots were already happening, jokes were flying, and guests were readying themselves for their “strategic responsibilities” — including the essential job of firing confetti cannons for the first dance. Mike also upheld a lifelong tradition: “borrowing” a £20 note from his uncle. Some things never change.

The speeches were hilarious and heartfelt, and included a full-size cardboard cutout of a specific stag-do photo that absolutely no one will ever forget.

Golden Hour at Padley Gorge

While guests grabbed some downtime and checked into their rooms, we nipped up to Padley Gorge for a few portraits in the evening light. Just ten minutes, a quiet patch of woodland, and some of the most wonderful sunshine you could wish for. They absolutely nailed it.

Party Mode: Fully Activated

Back at The Maynard, it didn’t take long for the dance floor to erupt. Mike and Abi’s crowd knew exactly how to party — and they didn’t let the buffet slow them down one bit. The atmosphere was electric, and honestly, I could have stayed photographing that dance floor all night.

Mike and Abi — thank you for letting me tell the story of your day. From the blazing August sun to the last spin on the dance floor, it was a wedding packed with personality, laughter, and all the big feelings. An absolute joy from start to finish.

Anyway, enough from me, have a watch of their photo highlights video below, or you can always scroll through the images underneath. Enjoy.

Suppliers…

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