Emma & Robin - A Floral-filled Shire-fest Wedding at Hilltop Country House - Cheshire Wedding Photography
“Lo! Young we are and yet have stood
like planted hearts in the great Sun
of Love so long (as two fair trees
in woodland or in open dale
stand utterly entwined and breathe
the airs and suck the very light
together) that we have become
as one, deep rooted in the soil
of Life and tangled in the sweet growth.”
As a Cheshire Wedding Photographer, few venues capture my heart quite like Hilltop Country House. So when Emma & Robin told me their wedding would be there — and inspired by The Lord of the Rings — I knew we were in for something incredibly special.
Despite a looming forecast and a few nervous glances at the clouds, the rain held off, and the day unfolded into the most beautiful garden party wedding of dreams. Hilltop’s enchanting gardens were the perfect setting for their heartfelt outdoor ceremony, led by the wonderful Toast Celebrant Sally. It was warm, personal, and full of joyful tears — the kind of ceremony that reminds you why you do this job.
After a lively confetti toss (and let’s just say, these two nailed the confetti moment!), guests wandered the gardens, discovering the most magical touches that Emma & Robin had so thoughtfully created. Being huge fans of The Lord of the Rings, they turned Hilltop into their very own Shire for the day — from themed table decor and a Middle-earth treasure hunt, to my personal favourite: the “Frodo-booth,” complete with props and costumes so guests could channel their inner hobbit.
The florals from Fox & Bloom were next level beautiful — wild, romantic, and completely in tune with the garden setting. Every arrangement felt like it had been picked straight from an enchanted woodland.
One of the most emotional highlights came during the wedding breakfast when Emma surprised Robin with a visit from their adorable dachshunds — cue happy tears all around. It was one of those moments that showed just how much thought and love went into every part of this day.
Speeches by both Emma & Robin were filled with warmth and heartfelt words, sharing their love story with such tenderness that there wasn’t a dry eye in the marquee. The Hilltop Country House staff were absolutely amazing — so kind, organised, and full of calm energy that made the day run seamlessly. And I was lucky enough to work alongside my pal Hannah Kennedy Videography, which is always a total joy.
As the sun softened into golden hour, the evening stretched lazily across the lawn with garden games, kids running wild, champagne flowing, and laughter filling the summer air.
Photographing weddings at Hilltop Country House is always a joy, but this one? This one felt like pure magic. Emma & Robin, I genuinely adore you both — your creativity, your kindness, and your love for each other were a dream to capture.
If you’re planning your own wedding at Hilltop and looking for a Cheshire Wedding Photographer to tell your story with heart, I’d love to hear from you.
