Dana and Adam married on a warm August day at Hogarths Stone Manor, on the edge of Kidderminster in Worcestershire. The sun came through light cloud, which kept the light soft. I'm Paul Hickey of Once in a Lifetime Photography. I photographed their day in a documentary style, from the old Pump Rooms to the landscaped gardens. Dana and Adam booked me as their Hogarths Stone Manor wedding photographer for the whole day, preparations to night portraits.
Stone Manor Hotel
Hogarths Stone Manor is a manor house hotel near Kidderminster, set in 27 acres of landscaped grounds. Couples can marry outdoors in the old Pump Rooms. The reception can follow in the Garden Room, which overlooks the gardens. The venue says the Garden Room holds up to 200 guests. Guests can also stay on site, which helps families travelling in.
Story of the Wedding Day
Bridal Preparation at Stone Manor
Dana got ready in one of the hotel's rooms with her bridesmaids, Holly and Samantha, and her mum. The morning was full of laughter, make-up brushes and a few happy tears. I kept things relaxed and photographed the candid moments between them. Soft window light showed off the lace detail of her wedding dress.
Photographing the Sunny Outdoor Ceremony
The ceremony took place outdoors in the historic old Pump Rooms. Sunshine through light cloud gave soft, natural light and a calm atmosphere. I positioned myself to catch Dana walking down the aisle with her father. I also caught the joy on Adam's face and every glance between them. They exchanged vows beneath the arches, surrounded by family, friends and the gardens.
Drinks and Family Groups Among the Walled Garden Borders
After the ceremony, guests moved to the walled garden for the drinks reception. The enclosed space suited candid shots of guests mingling and toasting the couple. I also took the formal group and family photos here, using the greenery and the garden's layout as a backdrop.
Couple’s Portraits Around Stone Manor Grounds
Dana and Adam took some time together to explore the 27-acre grounds. We used the flowerbeds, stone paths and secluded corners of the garden for their portraits. Their chemistry did most of the work; I chose the light and the backgrounds.
Wedding Breakfast and Heartfelt Speeches
The wedding breakfast was in the Garden Room, a bright space with large windows onto the gardens. The Wedding House Droitwich styled the room with elegant florals and modern furnishings. Heartfelt speeches followed the meal, and I photographed Dana and Adam's reactions as their loved ones shared stories.
Dana and Adam's First Dance Under Twinkling Lights
As the evening drew in, Dana and Adam shared their first dance in the Garden Room. Blue Diamond Entertainment provided the music. I photographed them dancing under soft, twinkling lights, surrounded by family and friends. The room was buzzing. After the first dance, guests filled the floor and the party ran late into the night.
Creative Night-Time Wedding Photos
One of my favourite parts of Dana and Adam's wedding was the creative evening session. After dark we went into the gardens with confetti, smoke bombs and even a bubble gum shot. Off-camera flash gave the images their drama. We finished with a champagne spray, lit to freeze it in mid-air.
Dana and Adam's Day in Summary
Dana and Adam's wedding at Hogarths Stone Manor brought together outdoor scenery, elegant rooms and plenty of emotion. It was an honour to tell their story from start to finish.
More weddings at Hogarths Stone Manor: Nicola & Rory's summer wedding and a Greek-inspired wedding.
Why Couples Book Once in a Lifetime Photography at Hogarths
I'm Paul Hickey of Once in a Lifetime Photography, a Worcestershire wedding photographer. I photograph candid, relaxed moments as they happen, then add creative night portraits. Hogarths Stone Manor gives plenty of options for both, from the outdoor ceremony spaces to the reception rooms. If you're planning a wedding at Hogarths or another Worcestershire venue, I'd love to hear from you.
Dana and Adam's wedding at Hogarths Stone Manor was full of love and laughter. If you're considering Hogarths or another Worcestershire wedding venue, I'd be glad to talk through your plans.