The Riverside Hotel Wedding Photographer
Alisa and Damien’s Day at The Riverside Hotel, Staffordshire
So, it’s 2023 and I’m finally doing it – blogging some of the incredible weddings I’ve had the honour of photographing! Fellow photographers have been encouraging me to blog for years, but as a self-confessed social media recluse, I’ve always nodded politely and carried on. But here we are – and I can’t think of a better place to start than with Alisa and Damian’s beautiful day at The Riverside Hotel in Branston.
This wedding was everything I love about being a wedding photographer – relaxed, genuine, full of laughter, and set in a stunning riverside location. As a wedding photographer, I couldn’t have asked for a better setting. Nestled along the peaceful River Trent, this charming Midlands wedding venue offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and laid-back vibes.
From the moment I arrived for bridal prep, I felt like more of a friend than a supplier. A friend with two cameras strapped to my harness, admittedly – but still! The morning was full of natural, unscripted moments – family milling about, kids running around, laughter echoing through the rooms. This part of the day is one of my favourites to document. It’s real, it's raw, and it always gives a beautiful window into family life.
Alisa and Damian planned their wedding to be as relaxed and fun as possible, and it really showed. The day unfolded effortlessly, with plenty of heartfelt moments and spontaneous bursts of laughter. As a documentary-style wedding photographer, it was a dream to capture – I was able to move freely and blend in with the guests, capturing everything from quiet hugs to full-on dance floor madness.
And speaking of the party – what a night! The energy on the dance floor was electric, and yes, the shoe-phone moment absolutely cracked me up behind the camera.
All in all, being part of Alisa and Damian’s wedding day was an absolute joy. If you’re planning your own wedding at this beautiful Branston venue and looking for a relaxed, documentary-style photographer who’ll capture the real moments – I’d love to hear from you.
