The Gardens Yalding Kent Countryside Spring Wedding with Phil & Donna
Tucked away just outside the Kentish villlage of Yalding, near Maidstone, lies the Gardens - a wedding venue with a difference! What used to be organic gardens open to the public has been converted into a stunning place to get married, all centered on a wooden gazebo set amongst landscaped and immaculate gardens and grounds. Meanwhile, the modern barn and adjoining permanent tipis provide space and shelter for meals and functions.
It was hard to not be in awe when I arrived at the Gardens ahead of Phil and Donna's wedding. As they opted to not have the morning preparations covered, I headed straight here for a quick scout to find some good locations for photos later in the day. Donna was getting ready upstairs so I popped up to see her and got a few lovely portraits of her in her ivory dress with one of her best friends and alone before the ceremony.
With everyone seated in front of the gazebo, Donna made her way from the main barn under hyacinth-laiden archways and between guests to meet a nervously waiting Phil and his son (who was the best man). The ceremony was lovely, with a few close friends standing up to give readings, and as the newlyweds headed back down the aisle they had a bit of a confetti shower!
After some time to relax and a reception drink or two, I took everyone back out onto the grass for some group photos before it was time to sit down for the wedding breakfast. The adjoining tipis looked amazing all decked out, with plenty of floral touches (such as the table names) befitting on the venue.
Once the speeches were over and the sun began to set, I grabbed Phil and Donna again for a wander around the grounds during the golden hour. That time of the day where the light is soft and golden just before sunset. We were certainly spoilt for choice when it came to really pretty locations to choose from. Pretty greenhouses, lines of perfectly trimmed trees, wooden gates and benches, leafy archways - you name it!
Back at the main barn, the evening was just getting underway and, although it was still pretty light outside this time of year, Phil and Donna opted to have their first dance a little early. With the DJ playing some great songs to get everyone on the dancefloor, the happy couple were soon joined by their nearest and dearest, while others manned the bar to continue the celebration bathed in the last of the spring sunshine.
Whether you're planning a big lavish wedding, or something much smaller and just want images full of fun, smiles, laughter and tears, head over to my wedding photography page for prices and lots of information on how I can help make your day memorable and as awesome as possible! Or you can send me a message to see if I have your wedding date available.
