A Refined Winter Wedding in Ely | Emma & Charles at St Mary’s Church
Hello, I hope you had a lovely Easter and found some time to unwind.
Today I’m sharing a wedding that has stayed with me for all the right reasons. Emma and Charles were married on New Year’s Eve in the beautiful city of St Mary’s Church, Ely, a setting that felt both intimate and quietly grand, especially as the winter light began to fade.
I was assisting my friend, Ryan Jarvis, once again for this wedding, providing an extra pair of hands for what was a large and elegant celebration.
This was a beautifully traditional day, full of heritage and charm. Charles, coming from a farming and shooting background, wore classic tails paired with tartan trousers, formal yet personal. Emma chose a timeless, elegant gown, complemented by a cathedral-length veil that moved so gracefully as she entered the candlelit church.
The ceremony began at 3pm and with December’s early twilight, the church was illuminated with the soft, warm glow of candles. Every detail — from the flickering light to the quiet reverence of the moment was enchanting.
One of the most personal touches was the presence of the family’s Jack Russell Terriers, who were allowed to attend the service. As a dog lover and photographer, capturing them naturally without taking focus from the couple was a joy.
The celebration then continued at Charles’ family estate, where a marquee had been set up for the reception. It was warm, lively and elegant the perfect contrast to the solemnity of the ceremony. Guests mingled, enjoyed drinks, and admired the carefully curated table décor, while Emma and Charles made their entrance to a joyful room of cheering friends and family. Twirling napkins marked their arrival in a playful, sophisticated tradition that perfectly suited the grandeur of the day.
Throughout the day, Ryan and I worked seamlessly to capture both the big moments and the subtle, fleeting ones, the glances, gestures, and expressions that truly tell the story of Emma and Charles’ wedding. Large weddings like this can feel daunting but with careful planning, teamwork, and a focus on storytelling, we captured the essence of the day naturally and elegantly.
For me, this is what wedding photography is truly about documenting how a day feels, not just how it looks. Emma and Charles’ New Year’s Eve celebration was filled with warmth, elegance, and genuine joy, and I feel so grateful to have been part of it.
If you’re planning a wedding that feels true to you — whether it’s an elegant countryside celebration, a winter ceremony by candlelight, or something quietly understated — I would love to hear your plans.
I photograph weddings across Derbyshire, the Midlands, and throughout the UK, capturing natural, storytelling imagery that stands the test of time.
Get in touch to begin the conversation.
