A Stormy Adventure and the Perfect End to My Year

There’s something about photographing weddings that makes every single one unique, but Jordan and Matt’s Manorbier Castle wedding wasn’t just unique—it was unforgettable. With wild winds, last-minute changes, and some unexpected twists, it was the kind of day you couldn’t script even if you tried. For me, it was also my last wedding of the year, and let me tell you, it was the perfect way to wrap up an incredible season.

Starting My Adventure (With a Cookie for Breakfast!)

The weather forecast was clear: a red warning for wind. Knowing how unpredictable things can get, I left for the wedding a full 12 hours ahead of schedule and stayed overnight near Manorbier Castle. The plan was simple: wake up refreshed, have a full english, and get ready for an epic day.

But life had other plans. The storm had knocked out the power at the B&B where I was staying, and the owner and staff couldn’t make it in because of the weather. So, my “hearty breakfast” turned into… a cookie. But hey, when you’re excited for a wedding like this, you roll with it.

Fueled by sugar and enthusiasm, I made my way to Jordan and Matt’s house that morning. Matt welcomed me with a flat white and the pre-wedding madness began. Spending time with them and their families was a lovely way to start the day—it set the tone for everything that followed.

A Photographer’s Dream (Even in a Storm)

As a documentary-style photographer, I love capturing the real moments that make each wedding unique. With Jordan and Matt, there were so many of those moments—from the way they handled the weather with total calm to the joy they radiated all day.

I’d been looking forward to this wedding for months. These two are the kind of couple that make you fall in love with your job all over again. The connection between them, the focus on family, and their down-to-earth attitudes made this wedding such a joy to shoot. Even with the storm trying its best to blow us all away, they were just so happy to be marrying each other.

The Ceremony: Love Wins (Even Over the Wind)

The ceremony in the Vaulted Room was intimate, emotional, and full of love. Jordan and Matt exchanged their vows surrounded by 50 of their closest friends and family. The storm outside only seemed to heighten the atmosphere—it made everything feel even more dramatic and romantic.

For me, moments like this are why I love documentary photography. Capturing the emotion on people’s faces, the way Jordan and Matt looked at each other, and the laughter and tears shared in that room—it’s what weddings are all about.

Overcoming Challenges (With Style)

Jordan and Matt had planned to host their reception in a tipi on the castle grounds, but the wind had other ideas. They had to switch gears and move everything to the crypt, which turned out to be an inspired choice. The crypt’s ancient stone walls and cozy atmosphere made it feel like the perfect space for their celebration.

Even when the wind was trying to throw a spanner in the works, these two took it all in stride. Their calm, go-with-the-flow attitude was infectious, and it kept the day running smoothly despite the weather.

The Perfect End to My Year

This wedding wasn’t just memorable because of the storm or the stunning venue—it was special because of who Jordan and Matt are as people. They were so kind, so fun, and so in love that it made photographing their day a dream.

And as my last wedding of the year, it felt like the perfect way to wrap up a fantastic season. Sure, the wind was wild, I had a cookie for breakfast, and there were a few unexpected challenges. But honestly, I add to the drama!

Jordan and Matt, thank you for letting me be part of your incredible day. Your wedding proves that no matter what life throws at you—even a red weather warning—you can weather any storm together. And for me, documenting that kind of love is the most incredible privilege.