1st March 2025 | Peterstone Court, Brecon
Lauren and James got married at the beautiful Peterstone Court in Brecon – and it was a day packed with sunshine, personality, and a little bit of chaotic magic (just how I like it).
They both got ready at the venue, which made for a lovely, laid-back start. Lauren had the bridal suite of dreams – big, bright, dual aspect views over the Brecon Beacons, and yes, there was a roll top bath. She was really relaxed in the morning and even pulled me aside to give me a thank you gift: a notebook that said “Screenplays About My Cat” on the front. As someone who rarely gets gifts, I was genuinely touched (and it still makes me smile).
While Lauren got ready with her bridesmaids and mum, I headed over to James and the groomsmen – his dad and mates. They wanted a few pre-ceremony groomsmen photos, so we made use of the venue front for some fun and the bar for some suave shots. James was clearly excited but grounded – the perfect match for Lauren’s calm energy.
Back with the girls, Lauren’s nerves were starting to kick in. When I asked how she was feeling, I got a wide-eyed “…yep!” – which said everything. Her dad accidentally walked into the room early, so our planned “first look” went a bit rogue, but it was still a really emotional and sweet moment.
Downstairs, the ceremony began. James was completely awestruck when he saw Lauren walk in. The energy in the room softened – they were just so genuinely happy to see each other. And after a beautiful ceremony full of smiles and little glances, James skipped back up the aisle with his new wife to cheers from their guests. Iconic.
As always, we went straight into confetti – a brilliant way to make sure everyone’s still around before toilet trips and drinks distract them. Then came group photos, and afterwards, I whisked the newlyweds away for some couple portraits in the gardens. The weather was showing off – bright, warm, and a dream to shoot in.
One of the groomsmen moments I’ll never forget: James and his best man wanted photos with their beloved Porches – a shiny red one and a sleek black one. Naturally, I made them hold hands in front of them to celebrate their bromance. It was part Top Gear, part Rom-Com, and it 100% made the final gallery.
The drinks reception was super chilled, and Peterstone Court looked after everyone (including me – thank you for the incredible meal!). After dinner came the speeches, with James’ beloved Porsche just visible through the window – a perfect touch.
Then came the party. The DJ was a full-on entertainer and had everyone in stitches. Straight after the first dance, he launched a game: Lauren and James were sat in the middle of the dancefloor while guests had to rush to form groups and pose behind them for ridiculous group photos. Vengaboys’ “Vengabus” blasted through the room, and it was beautifully chaotic.
And if that wasn’t enough, round two involved the newlyweds and their handpicked teammates sat on chairs, dashing around the venue hunting for random objects (false teeth, a bra, a pint…). The photos? Hilarious. The vibe? Unhinged in the best possible way.
From that point on, the dancefloor was packed – a joyful, sweaty, love-filled mess. One of my favourite moments was Lauren dancing with her maid of honour. They live far apart, but the connection between them was so clearly strong.
Then it was time to wrap up the night. A full day of love, laughter, chaos, and colour – the kind of wedding I’ll never forget.
If you’re planning your own wedding at Peterstone Court in Brecon and want relaxed, storytelling-style photography with real moments, laughter and zero cheese – I’d love to chat.
(And yes, I’m fully on board with games, pets, Porches and playlists that include the Vengaboys.)
Think a creative, animal-loving, story-capturing South Wales photographer is a great fit for your big day? I’d love to chat about your wedding plans and how we can create stunning, candid memories together.