The one where they broke the cake knife... | Thornton Manor - Lucie & Sean
Thornton Manor Wedding
Photography and Film
I don’t tend to have favourite couples, I’m pretty bloody lucky and I get to work with awesome people all the time. However, Lucie and Sean have a Saluki and we all know how I feel about dogs so…Haha!
Much to my disappointment their pup didn’t make an appearance on the wedding day but I won’t hold that against them!
Anyway, August bank holiday weekend dawned and it was actually sunny! I thanked the weather gods and set off to Thornton Manor on the Wirral. Now, Thornton Manor is a truly stunning venue. Firstly, it’s HUGE! The grounds are extensive and the estate is home to four exclusive use wedding venues - the Manor house, the Lakeside Marquee, the Dell Pavilion and the Walled Garden Marquee. They’re all expertly hidden away from each other and you would have no idea that there were other weddings taking place nearby. Each venue has it’s own vibe. From the stately elegance of the Manor House to the tranquillity of the Lakeside Marquee with its views over the picturesque lake and meadows. There are also numerous cottages dotted around which are perfect for guests to stay over and wedding morning preparations.
The Manor House, where Lucie and Sean were holding their wedding, dates back to the middle of the 19th century. It’s Grade II listed and is surrounded by landscaped gardens and parkland. As you can imagine, the interior is filled with antiques and gives a real sense of historic luxury.
Weddings at Thornton Manor
I was on photo and film duties for Lucie and Sean’s day. If you want to know more about my wedding films then head on over to this page for all the info.
Both Lucie and Sean are hardcore marathon runners. I am in awe of the distances they can take on. So, running was pretty much the, er, running (sorry, I couldn’t resist!) theme of the day. Check out those cake toppers!
Bear with me for a moment while I get all photographer’y. I just need to rave about the light at Thornton Manor, it is GLORIOUS! Honestly, I was in my element. The ceremony room opens up onto an avenue of lime trees (which Lucie walked down) and when the sunlight shines through them, well, it’s magical. You’ll see what I’m banging on about when you look at the photos, haha!
Anyway, light aside, what a venue! Following their ceremony Lucie and Sean strolled down the tree lined walkway as their guests cheered and covered them in confetti. Always a brilliant moment. Everyone enjoyed canapes, fizz and beer in the light and airy hall before heading into the incredible Dining Room for excellent food and some hilarious speeches. As the sun began to set Lucie, Sean and I went for a wander around the gardens. We had such a laugh. As we arrived back at the courtyard we realised all the female guests had gathered on the lawn. They were waiting for Lucie to throw her bouquet! She obliged and I don’t think any of us were ready for just how competitive her guests were! Grandma swooped in and nabbed the bouquet though. She’s single and an absolute gem so I made sure she knew I would be photographing her wedding day, haha!
Wedding Receptions at Thornton Manor
Following a cake cutting where they managed to break the knife (never underestimate the strength of marathon runners!) it was time for the first dance. As an extra special touch their best friend sang for them as Lucie and Sean swayed around the dancefloor. It was a magical end to a magnificent day.
Sadly, Thornton Manor has recently suffered a devastating fire and I’m gutted that they’re closed for the foreseeable future as they restore the Manor House. I can’t wait to be back shooting weddings there again once they’re ready to go.
