Relaxed Barn Wedding at Donington Park Farmhouse | Derbyshire Wedding Photography
There’s something particularly special about photographing a wedding when the weather, the venue and the people all come together effortlessly and this late spring wedding at Donington Park Farmhouse was exactly that.
I had the pleasure of assisting my good friend Holly Whitehall Photography once again, capturing the story of the day as it naturally unfolded. My coverage began with the latter part of groom prep at the couple’s home, a calm and quietly excited start to the day before heading over to Donington Park Farmhouse, just a stone’s throw from East Midlands Airport.
By the time guests began arriving, the sunshine had well and truly made itself known. Drinks in hand, people gravitated outdoors, making the most of the beautiful grounds and relaxed countryside setting that Donington Park Farmhouse is so well known for. It felt more like a garden party than the formal build-up to a ceremony exactly the kind of atmosphere that suits this venue perfectly.
The ceremony itself took place inside the main barn, a beautifully rustic and characterful space full of charm. While naturally darker with very little natural light, it creates an intimate, atmospheric setting that feels warm, authentic and perfectly suited to relaxed countryside weddings. After heartfelt vows, the celebrations spilled back outside for confetti, group photos and, most importantly, those natural in-between moments, the hugs, laughter and conversations as friends and family reunited.
Before photographing the bride and groom together, I focused on documenting those hellos and interactions that often become some of the most meaningful images from a wedding day. The couple themselves work in hospitality, the groom a chef and the bride a bar manager and that welcoming, people-first energy flowed through the entire day. Everyone was friendly, relaxed and genuinely enjoying each other’s company.
This wedding felt lavish without ever being showy. Thoughtful details, generous hosting and a strong emphasis on guest experience made it a joy to photograph. Donington Park Farmhouse really came into its own as the day unfolded, offering plenty of outdoor space for guests to mingle while still providing a cosy barn setting for the more traditional parts of the day.
As a Derbyshire-based wedding photographer, it’s always a pleasure to return to local venues I know and love and Donington Park Farmhouse is certainly one of them. Its versatility, relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a wonderful choice for couples who want a countryside wedding that feels both refined and welcoming.
Even though this wasn’t my own booking, it was a privilege to help document such a joyful, sun-soaked celebration and to work alongside Holly once again. Weddings like this are a great reminder of why relaxed, people-focused photography matters, capturing not just how a day looks, but how it truly felt.
If you're planning a Derbyshire wedding or anywhere across the UK and my relaxed, natural approach speaks to you, I'd love to hear from you.
