Georgia & Andy - A Black Friar/Black Tie Wedding in the City Centre - Manchester Wedding Photographer
“They say nothing lasts forever
But they ain’t seen us together
Or the way the moonlight dances in your eyes
Just a t-shirt in the kitchen
With no make-up and a million
Other things that I could look at my whole life
A love like that makes a man have second thoughts
Maybe some things last forever after all
”
There are some weddings you know are going to be special long before the day itself.
Georgia and Andy's was one of them.
Ever since our very first call, we've got on like a house on fire. They are the sort of couple who make you feel instantly at home – warm, funny, endlessly thoughtful and so completely smitten with one another that photographing them almost feels too easy. I've been looking forward to their wedding for months, and somehow it was even lovelier than I'd imagined.
The day began in Bury, where Georgia spent the morning getting ready at Beautique, her mum's best friend's salon. It was such a happy start to the day. Lots of laughter, a few happy tears and that lovely feeling that everyone was exactly where they wanted to be. From there we headed back to her parents' house for the final touches before it was time to make our way into Manchester.
Waiting at The Black Friar was Andy, along with seven of his oldest friends. One of the things I loved most about this wedding was how much it celebrated old friendships as well as their relationship. Everywhere you looked were people who'd known each other for years, and it gave the whole day such a relaxed, familiar feeling.
Then came one of my favourite ceremonies I've photographed in a long time.
Their vows were so beautifully personal, heartfelt and honest. The kind that make everyone laugh one minute and quietly reach for a tissue the next. There wasn't a single part of it that felt performative. It was simply the two of them telling each other exactly why they'd chosen one another, surrounded by the people who know and love them best.
Afterwards, we gathered all 66 guests outside The Black Friar for one enormous group photograph before everyone spilled back inside for hugs, confetti and celebrations. I then stole Georgia and Andy away for ten minutes to wander through the city together. Just the three of us, no pressure, no awkward posing. A little breathing space before heading back to enjoy the rest of their wedding with everyone they'd invited.
Because that's always my favourite way to do portraits.
A little direction here and there, but mostly leaving room for all of those lovely in-between moments to happen naturally.
Back inside came some brilliant speeches that had the whole room laughing one minute and wiping away tears the next, before everyone tucked into what has to be one of the best wedding breakfasts around. If you've never been to a wedding at The Black Friar, let this be your sign. Beautiful surroundings, the friendliest team and genuinely excellent pies.
As the evening settled in, we nipped over to The Anglesey for one final little adventure. A quiet pint together, a few more portraits and that lovely feeling that everything had slowed down for a moment before the dance floor called them back.
They kicked things off with their first dance to Luke Combs, surrounded by all of their favourite people, and from that moment on it was nothing but smiles, hugs and a very full dance floor.
Georgia and Andy designed a wedding that felt completely like them. Elegant without ever feeling formal. Thoughtfully planned but wonderfully relaxed. Full of laughter, old friendships and so much love.
I absolutely adored every minute of it.
Thank you both for trusting me with your story. It was an absolute privilege to tell it.
