A whimsical wedding in the enchanting Escrick Park Woodland

Saturday’s wedding of Emily & James is definitely one to share! These two were the absolute best and their friendship and love was amazing to see. A fellow couple that also work together but in theatre, capturing their special day was a celebration of love and unity, set amidst the breathtaking beauty of Escrick Park Woodland and a joy to do.

They both chose to go for an unplugged ceremony, with their celebrant, India suggesting something of a first for us! Before the ceremony began, everyone whipped out their phones and took a selfie and sent it to Emily & James for them to look at the following day. We love this idea!

Emily and James exchanged their vows surrounded by the serene ambiance of the forest canopy. Underneath a rustic arch adorned with lush greenery and delicate flowers, their love story was beautifully narrated by their celebrant, India. Surrounded by their loved ones, the couple stood barefoot in a circle of rose petals, embracing the natural elements that symbolize their connection to each other and the earth and a beautiful hark back to their engagement.

In a heartfelt and intimate moment, Emily and James spoke their own vows, expressing their deep love and commitment to each other. Their words echoed through the woods, capturing the essence of their unique bond! Adding a touch of joy and nostalgia, the couple chose to sing an Abba song as part of their ceremony, with everyone joining in for a good old sing song!

One of the most memorable moments of Emily and James' wedding was their handfasting ceremony. As a tribute to their excellent black and white cat, Bruce; one of the braids used during the handfasting ritual was black and white as well! This symbolic gesture allowed the couple to honour Bruce’s presence on their special day.

Following their woodland ceremony, Emily and James continued their celebrations at Haxby Hall. The venue was uniquely and beautifully styled by Bex of Oakleaf Weddings. The drinks reception was held in the garden where everyone enjoyed a tinnie in the sun and helped themselves to vegan street food later on. It was such a chilled vibe all day!

Emily and James' wedding was a true celebration of love, nature, and personal connections. From the enchanting woodland ceremony to the fun village hall reception, their day was filled with meaningful moments and personal touches. We both cried at the ceremony & speeches!! The handfasting ceremony and the inclusion of their bestest furry pal, Bruce, added a unique spin that we were 100% on board for! Their wedding was a true example of making your day unique and personal to you as a couple & we couldn’t have been more thrilled and honoured to be the one’s capturing it!

As a couple that works together (and as cat people) it’s lovely working for a couple that also work together (and are also cat people)! An absolute joy!

Calum Crowther