If the thought of being the centre of attention makes you cringe, or you're not wild about the idea of posing for hours in front of a camera — this one’s for you.

Sophie and Daren got married at The Old Vicarage in Elkesley, and their day was a brilliant reminder that weddings don’t have to be formal, staged or anything other than what you want them to be. Their vibe? Totally relaxed, fun, and focused on real moments rather than perfect poses.



Groom stood at the front of the aisle at The Old Vicarage, Elkesley
Bride reading a card from her husband to be. She is looking emotional.
Grooms son and best man is sorting out his dads hair before the wedding
Bride day time perfume, new earrings and bouquet.

Why This Wedding Stood Out

Sophie and Daren made it clear from the start: no formal photos, no being made a spectacle of, and no forced traditions that didn’t feel like them. Instead, their day was packed with personality — from crazy golf to a duck race and even a giant outdoor paella. They embraced the unpredictability of the British weather with a bit of laughter (and some very well-timed showers!), and ended the night dancing under the stars before everyone crashed in glamping tents.


Bride and groom with umbrella in the rain
Bride and groom walking across the bridge in the rain. Both are laughing.
Bride and groom walking in the rain across a bridge with their umbrella

If You’re Shy in Front of the Camera — Read This

We hear it all the time: “We hate having our photo taken.” And you know what? That’s totally okay.

Your wedding isn’t a photoshoot. It’s your chance to be surrounded by your favourite people, doing things your way. Sophie and Daren didn’t want a spotlight. They wanted to have a laugh, eat good food, and make memories that felt real. And that’s exactly what they got.

The key? Choosing a photographer who gets that. We blended into the day, captured the little things (like the way Sophie beamed at Daren across the duck pond, or how guests lost it at the mini golf), and never once asked them to “say cheese.”



Wedding guest crossing the river on the stepping stones. One is almost falling in!
Groom getting ready to kiss his bride. His best man is his son. Groom is trying to cover son's eyes.
Guests having fun and taking selfies at the wedding
Guests laughing whilst trying to play mini golf.

Tips for a Relaxed, Photo-Friendly Wedding (That Doesn’t Feel Forced)

If you're planning a wedding like Sophie and Daren's, here are a few tips to keep things chilled and still come away with photos you’ll love:

  • Pick a venue with a relaxed vibe – The Old Vicarage was perfect for this. Think sprawling gardens, quirky details, and plenty of outdoor space for guests to spread out and enjoy themselves.
  • Ditch the shot list – Instead of ticking off stiff group photos, let your day unfold naturally. We’ll be there quietly capturing the bits you might miss.
  • Focus on fun over formality – Crazy golf, duck races, glamping tents – anything that makes your guests smile makes for the best kind of candid photos.
  • Trust your photographer – When you work with someone who gets your vibe, you can relax knowing the moments that matter are being caught — without you ever needing to pose.




Bride had arrived at the front of the aisle with her dad. Both bride and groom are emotional and crying. Bride is leaning forwards.
Bride and groom
bride and groom

The Old Vicarage Elkesley: A Dream for Laid-Back Weddings

If you’re still looking for a venue, The Old Vicarage in Elkesley is a hidden gem. It’s ideal for couples who want something outdoorsy and informal, with a bit of boho charm. The gardens are lush, the staff are chilled, and the whole place just feels easy-going — which made it perfect for Sophie and Daren’s day.

Thinking of planning a low-key wedding that feels like you?

We’re all about making people feel comfy, blending in with the guests, and capturing the little moments you’ll actually want to remember. If that sounds like your kind of wedding photography, let’s have a chat. Contact me using the button below.