Chilston Park Hotel Kent Countryside Spring Wedding with Alex & Sarah

This was my first visit to the Chilston Park Hotel for a wedding, and I was simply blown away by how beautiful it is. Nestled in the heart of the Kent countryside between Maidstone and Ashford, the 17th century main building is flanked by rooms and a function suite in a modernised stable block, all set in 22 acres of land. Alex and Sarah had a beautiful late May wedding planned with a bit of a chocolate theme going on with hints of Cadburys purple in their colour scheme.

I arrived nice and early, as I always do for new venues, and headed up to see Sarah after taking some photos of the venue. She was getting ready with her bridesmaids in the main building up a grand central staircase. She had some lovely details to photograph before I began my documentary-style coverage, including her stunning dress, shoes and jewellery. Sarah's brother was going to be walking her down the aisle, and he popped in for help with his tie while Sarah was getting into her dress.

Before the ceremony I had to grab a few quick portraits of sarah with (and without) her bridesmaids on the famous staircase before heading into the orangery where Alex and their guests were waiting patiently. After a few readings from bridesmaids and friends, vows and a first kiss, everyone headed outside for reception drinks and to enjoy the late spring sunshine before some group photos in the large grounds and an epic confetti throw over the happy couple.

Inside the tables for their wedding breakfast had been decorated with their chocolate theme, with tables named after classic Cadburys chocolates and a strong purple theme throughout. They even opted for both a tiered wedding cake and a selection of individual cupcakes.

After the speeches I took Alex and Sarah for a wander around the grounds, where we were spoilt for choice when it came to stunning surroundings for their couples photos. We opted to investigate the pier over the nearby lake and the large patches of daisies that had sprung up nearby, before heading back inside to that famous staircase again for some really romantic photos.

By now the party had moved to the stable block where a dancefloor and photobooth had been set up for everyone, with Alex and Sarah taking to the floor for their first dance before everyone else joined in on the action (even the little ones!). This was a great end to the day in a simply beautiful venue, and I hope I get to come back here soon. If you're planning your own wedding in a grand country hotel, or anywhere in the southeast or beyond, head over to my wedding photography page for more details, or get in touch to check my availability for your date.