Stirk House hotel wedding photography, Gisburn, Lancashire
Melissa & Liam's wedding at Stirk house
It's always a great pleasure photographing weddings at the Stirk house, just down the road from my home town of Clitheroe. The historic building of nearly 400 years stands in the middle of 22 acres of stunning surroundings of fields and woods. It's one of those venue's that is just fantastic for wedding photography whatever the weather. If you're lucky enough to have the sun, the patio at the front is the perfect place for your guests to enjoy canapes and take in views during the drinks reception while you sneak 10 minutes time out for a stroll through the woods - but, if it rains, then the conservatory brings the outside inside with ivy climbing up the stone walls to the ceiling.
On the day, I met up with Melissa and the bridesmaids in the newly re furbished bridal suite bright and early. There was so much going on and it's great when everyone is so relaxed and having a laugh, it makes it that much easier to blend in and get great fun shots without really being noticed. Just in the room around the corner Liam was getting ready with his family so it was easy to go between rooms to get some shots with him too. Then it was off downstairs for the main event!
Stirk House Wedding reception and the legend of Dave!
Another thing I love about Stirk house wedding photography is the contrast of the old ivy clad Stone house with the huge airy reception room. Light floods in from above making it great for capturing every laugh and tear during speeches...But, what truly makes the day special is Dave. The guy is a true legend and always makes sure your day is the best it can be - seriously, nothing is too much trouble and everyone loves him!
Award winning wedding photography
Just in front of the house is a huge tree which is lit with hundreds of fairy lights at night. I photograph pretty much the whole day in a natural documentary style but love to make use of the surroundings and get creative. I try not to do the obvious shots or repeat ones I've done before as your wedding is unique. I was honoured to receive a 'Masters of wedding photography' award for the image at the top of the page. What really makes this shot for me is the way they are laughing with each other and that's down to them being such an ace couple - so another huge thanks to Melissa and Liam for having me capture their day.
