Liam & Rhys’ Sun-Soaked Wedding at De Vere Tortworth Court, Gloucestershire
Some weddings just radiate joy from beginning to end—and Liam and Rhys’ day at De Vere Tortworth Court was one of those. It had everything: a beautiful setting, beaming guests, personal vows, and the kind of sunshine that makes you genuinely consider buying a handheld fan for your camera bag.
Set in the heart of the West Country, this venue is an absolute gem. With its sweeping gardens, grand orangery, and views that just keep going, De Vere Tortworth Court made the perfect backdrop for a day that was serene, stylish, and so full of love. As a documentary wedding photographer covering Gloucestershire and beyond, this one ticked all the boxes for me.
Calm Morning, Big Emotions.
The morning was chilled to perfection. Rhys and Liam got ready in what I’m convinced is the biggest hotel room I’ve ever seen (seriously, you could’ve hosted a mini reception in there). That space meant everyone could stay together without stepping on each other’s toes—and it set the tone for a relaxed, happy morning full of laughter and zero stress.
The weather? Glorious. Warm, clear, and hands down the first properly hot day of the year—wedding photography dreams come true.
A Ceremony in the Orangery That Hit All the Feels.
The ceremony was held in the orangery, where sunlight poured through the glass and guests filled the room with warmth and anticipation. From the moment Rhys and Liam entered, the atmosphere was buzzing with love.
One of the most beautiful parts of the ceremony was something I’d never seen before: a ring warming. Their celebrant, Tara, passed the wedding rings around the guests before the vows—so that every person could hold them and pass on their love and good wishes. It was so personal, and honestly, a little emotional even for me behind the lens.
Both Rhys and Liam had written personal vows they hadn’t shared with each other until that moment. The result? Actual tears—from the couple, from the guests, and maybe (definitely) a little from me too.
Their bridesmaid Naomi—whose wedding I shot two years ago—delivered a beautiful reading, which made the whole thing even more special.
Candid Moments, Golden Hour Magic & Teenage Dirtbag.
As always, I stayed in the background for most of the day, just chatting to guests and letting moments unfold naturally. We snuck away before the speeches for a little walk, just the two of them, to capture some relaxed couples shots—and then again during golden hour when the gardens were glowing.
Rhys and Liam spent the whole day smiling at each other. It was that kind of love you don’t need to direct or pose—it just shows up in every photo.
Drone shots helped me set the scene and give a sense of the scale and setting—and that orangery glow as the sun went down? Chef’s kiss.
Wild Dancefloor, Sunset Vibes & Drag Queen DJs.
The reception continued in the orangery, which only got more stunning as the sun set and turned everything golden. Guests spilled out onto the terrace, drinks in hand, while others absolutely tore up the dancefloor inside.
One of my favourite unposed moments? Liam’s mates lifting him onto their shoulders during Teenage Dirtbag by Wheatus. I didn’t know I needed that in a wedding gallery until it happened, but now I want it in every one.
Rhys and Liam booked a wedding band and a drag queen DJ to finish off the night, which—unsurprisingly—turned into an absolute party. Some people danced ‘til their feet gave up, others stayed outside chatting in the evening warmth. Perfect balance.
Little Legends & Big Love.
Their nephews were total scene-stealers—handing out high-fives with FULL commitment and the kind of cheeky grins that just make you smile when you see the photos.
But honestly, Rhys and Liam were the stars. They’re some of the kindest, most genuine people I’ve ever worked with, and the way they treated every guest (and every supplier!) with warmth and gratitude was something really special.
This one meant a lot to me personally too—I’ve known Rhys for years, and getting to photograph him marrying the love of his life was a massive honour.
Thinking of Getting Married at Tortworth Court?
Don’t sleep on this venue. It’s gorgeous, relaxed, accessible, and just works—whether you’re after a sophisticated vibe or a day full of belly laughs and wild moves. The staff were brilliant and totally on it all day.
And if you’re looking for fun, candid, and storytelling wedding photography that actually captures what your day felt like—not just how it looked—I’d love to hear about your plans. Whether you're tying the knot in Gloucestershire, the West Midlands, or anywhere in between, I’m there for the real stuff.
