DIY Marquee Wedding Photographer - Beth & Eliot's Wedding Day
From the very first Zoom call with Beth and Eliot, I knew their wedding was going to be a perfect fit for how I love to work. They wanted their day to be completely relaxed, full of natural moments, and with a strong focus on enjoying time with their family and friends. That’s exactly my kind of wedding photography, real, documentary-style coverage that lets couples truly live their day while I capture it as it happens.
The main part of the wedding was held at Beth’s family home, but my day started with bridal prep. As I arrived, her dad was busy finishing up the last bits of DIY, putting up a handmade sign to direct guests to the marquee. Inside, the atmosphere was buzzing. Beth had chosen a big group of bridesmaids, which always helps set the tone, and the energy was amazing from the start. Beth herself was calm and relaxed, patiently waiting her turn in the makeup chair.
Once everyone was ready, there were a couple of emotional reveals: first to Beth’s dad, and then to her bridesmaids. Both moments were filled with laughter and happy tears, which set the perfect tone before heading off to Aston Cantlow church.
Aston Cantlow Church Ceremony
The groomsmen had time for a quick pint at the pub conveniently located just down the path from the church, while Eliot welcomed guests and tried to keep the nerves in check. One of my favourite moments was watching the bridesmaids walk down the aisle, and for once, every single one remembered to look forward!
Beth made her entrance in style, and although Eliot didn’t shed a tear, the smiles said it all. The ceremony was beautiful, followed by a traditional confetti throw. A personal highlight was one of the groomsmen dramatically launching an entire basket of confetti and completely missing the couple! Those little moments are what make weddings so unique.
With the ceremony complete, guests headed to the pub for a quick celebratory drink before moving on to the family farm for the main event.
DIY Marquee Wedding Reception
Beth and Eliot arrived slightly later than their guests, making a grand entrance into the marquee. The drone shots captured the moment perfectly, with cheers ringing out as they walked in, a brilliant way to kick off the celebrations. Drinks flowed, canapés were served, and the atmosphere was exactly as they had hoped: relaxed, fun, and full of laughter.
Dinner came with a twist. A handful of handpicked guests were given chef hats and carving knives, taking on the role of official “carvers” for each table. Watching them proudly serve up plates of food (with plenty of banter from the rest of the guests) added such a personal and lighthearted touch to the meal.
As the evening sun began to set, Beth and Eliot , who had originally decided they didn’t want any formal couple portraits, were gently encouraged by their friends to step away for a few minutes. With the stunning views across the farm and golden light filling the fields, it was the perfect opportunity for a handful of natural, relaxed photos that really captured the beauty of their surroundings without taking them away from the fun for long.
Evening Celebrations
Once the sun dipped behind the horizon, it was time for the dance floor to take centre stage. With a free bar, incredible energy from their guests, and some pretty epic moves making an appearance, the party atmosphere was everything you’d want from a marquee wedding.
It was the perfect way to round off a day that had been so chilled, heartfelt, and full of joy from start to finish.
Beth & Eliot’s wedding was a reminder of why I love DIY marquee weddings so much — they’re personal, unique, and completely shaped by the couple.
