There’s something about the first truly warm day of the year — the kind that catches you off guard, like the sun has been saving itself for something special. That’s exactly how this day in March felt. After what seemed like an endless winter, spring arrived in full on the morning of Matilda and Josh's Charlton Hall wedding. The sun was beaming, the air felt hopeful, and there was a quiet sense that the season had turned just for them. Early spring flowers lined the grounds, and while the trees hadn’t yet woken up, there was life in the atmosphere that made everything feel softly alive.

The Morning


The groom, Josh, arrived already dressed, looking sharp in black tie alongside his groomsmen. We made the most of the sunshine, stepping outside the house for relaxed portraits — walking shots, group laughs, and the kind of effortless moments that come when friends are genuinely enjoying themselves. Once back inside, they grabbed beers and relaxed in the uniquely styled rooms of Charlton Hall. A few played noughts and crosses on a beautifully designed board, while others gathered by the grand piano. Each room brought something different, and the groom even had a fun moment posing dramatically at the window — a spontaneous, playful touch that ended up being a favorite frame.

Meanwhile, the bride, Matilda, was in a nearby house getting ready with her bridesmaids. The energy was electric — loud, fun, slightly chaotic, but filled with love. Music played (with lyrics not suitable for a church), and everyone sang along, drinks in hand and dressing gowns on. Amid the laughter was a beautiful spontaneity — like when the bride crossed her legs and the garter peeked out, prompting a cheeky, unforgettable shot that ended up on social media.

Two first looks brought the emotion: the first, with her father, was full of quiet tears and soft smiles. The second, with the bridesmaids, was anything but quiet — screams, gasps, and the joyful chaos of seeing someone you love looking their absolute best. Before getting into the dress, the bridal party even stepped outside in their robes with bouquets for some sunny, playful portraits that felt totally them.

The Ceremony


Just a short walk across the courtyard sat the ceremony space — a room with black and white flooring, exposed stone walls, ghost chairs, and fairy lights stretching from ceiling to floor. It was dim, intimate, and magical. The focal point? A tree adorned with tiny hanging tea lights, casting a soft, golden glow where the couple would stand. It’s one of the most unique wedding ceremony spaces in Northumberland.


The groom waited nervously, visibly moved even before the ceremony began. Matilda and Josh hadn't seen each other in 24 hours, and that tension made their reunion all the more emotional. As the bride walked in, he couldn’t hold back tears. Around them, guests followed suit — tears from bridesmaids and the bride’s mother, smiles from the groom’s side, and a quiet joy that spread through the room.


From the top of the aisle, I captured their story unfolding. When the moment came for their first kiss, the registrar stepped aside (a quiet thank you), and the couple shared that perfect moment surrounded by applause and love.

Post-ceremony, we started with a confetti tunnel. With a bit of guidance (no phones, aim high, avoid faces!), it turned into a beautiful burst of colour and energy. After that came family portraits on the house staircase — staggered, structured, and meaningful.


Then, just the two of them.

Portraits


We stayed by the front of the house, taking advantage of the architecture and the soft wind that played perfectly with the bride’s veil. The bridesmaids and groomsmen stayed a bit longer for group photos, one of which — the couple kissing while everyone cheered around them — felt like a movie still.


As the sun dipped, we stepped into a warm pocket of golden hour. They kissed under the veil, played with the light, and enjoyed a few quiet moments wrapped in each other’s arms. These golden hour portraits are some of my favourite Charlton Hall wedding photography moments. The final shots: their rings, held close, one last quiet symbol of a day filled with love.

Reception


The reception took place in Charlton Hall’s Looking Glass room — a space surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides. By evening, tiny ceiling lights shimmered like stars, casting a romantic, celestial glow over the dance floor. Tables were dressed in white linen with black napkins, gold-rimmed charger plates, and champagne coupes with ribbon detailing. The black and white theme carried through everything — from the bridesmaids’ dresses to the bride’s mother’s gown.


Speeches opened the evening, heartfelt and emotional, with laughter and tears in equal measure. But the unforgettable highlight? The singing waiters.

A complete surprise, gifted by the bride’s parents. One waiter faked a dramatic fall, cutlery clattering to the ground — a perfect misdirection. Everyone gasped. And then, the music began. The room lit up as performers sang and danced, pulling guests in. The bride, groom, bridesmaids, parents — everyone got involved. It turned the entire evening into a celebration that felt spontaneous, joyful, and full of life. If you're looking for unique wedding entertainment ideas, this one is hard to top.

The Evening: Cake Cutting, First Dance & Dancefloor


As evening guests arrived, the bride took a quiet moment to herself in an empty room — a small, human pause in a very full day. Afterwards, she changed into a second dress, a surprise for the groom. We snuck a few portraits in the suite — moody, intimate shots on the bed and in a soft lounge chair, mixing flash and natural light to capture the stillness before the party began again.

Back in the Looking Glass, her re-entry turned heads. A second wow moment. Then came the cake cutting and a sweet, kiss-filled first dance under those twinkling ceiling stars. With a live DJ, saxophonist, and drummer, the party took on a new energy — sophisticated, lively, and unforgettable.


For couples dreaming of a black tie Charlton Hall wedding filled with personal details, golden light, and a few unforgettable surprises — Matilda and Josh's day is one to remember.


With Love,

Karolina x

Supplier Love