Los Angeles Lives
Yorkshire Vows
When Kaya first enquired about her Carlton Towers wedding, I had a feeling it was going to be one of those days.
Not because of the venue — but because of them.
Kaya and Gabriel live in Los Angeles and were planning a UK destination wedding surrounded by friends and family travelling from across the world. From the very beginning, everything about their plans felt intentional, emotional and beautifully considered.
From London Pre-Wedding to the Big Day
Six months before the wedding, they flew to England to visit Carlton Towers in person. While they were here, we met in London for a relaxed pre-wedding session — a chance to connect properly before the day itself.
For couples planning a destination wedding, I always recommend this. It gives you space to get comfortable in front of the camera and to understand how I work — especially with a documentary wedding photography approach that relies on trust rather than heavy direction.
By the time I delivered their pre-wedding gallery, we were already counting down.
Wedding Morning Energy
I arrived on the morning of the wedding to the sound of laughter echoing through the halls and conversations layered in different accents. With so many guests travelling internationally, the atmosphere felt like a reunion before the day had even begun.
Upstairs, bridal preparations were calm but buzzing underneath the surface. Kaya moved through the morning with this quiet composure — the kind that tells you she’s taking everything in. I documented the subtle moments: final touches of makeup, dresses being buttoned, friends exchanging looks that say “this is really happening.”
Meanwhile, groom prep had a completely different energy. Music on. Jokes flying. That mix of nerves and celebration that always builds just before the ceremony.
Even though rain tapped persistently against the windows, it didn’t dampen anything. If anything, it made everyone settle in closer together.
The First Look
One of the most meaningful parts of the day was Kaya and Gabriel’s private first look.
They chose to meet on the grand staircase inside Carlton Towers — just the two of them. No audience. No pressure.
The moment Gabriel turned around and saw her, everything shifted. Relief. Joy. That deep breath couples take when the anticipation finally releases. It was intimate and completely unforced — exactly the kind of moment documentary wedding photography is made for.
Afterwards, we kept portraits relaxed and natural. A blend of editorial structure and genuine interaction. Nothing overly staged — just space for them to be themselves.
The Ceremony
Their ceremony took place in one of the most ornate rooms in the house, filled with candlelight, layered details and an atmosphere that felt almost cinematic.
But what stood out most wasn’t the setting — it was the emotion.
Personal vows delivered through tears. Hands tightening mid-sentence. Guests leaning forward, fully present. It was one of those ceremonies where you could feel the weight and meaning in every word.
This is always my favourite part of the day to photograph. No interference. No direction. Just observation and instinct.
An Indoor Celebration That Never Missed a Beat
With rain continuing outside, the entire celebration unfolded indoors — and honestly, not once did it feel like something was missing.
Drinks flowed. Guests embraced in long overdue hugs. Speeches moved from hilarious to deeply emotional in seconds. There was this constant hum of connection throughout the day.
As a UK documentary wedding photographer, I’m always watching for the layers — reactions during speeches, parents in the background wiping tears, friends doubling over with laughter. Those are the frames that hold weight years later.
The reception space was transformed beautifully, full of thoughtful styling and florals that softened the grandeur of the interiors and made everything feel warm rather than formal.
The Party
By the time the dance floor opened, any trace of earlier rain was forgotten.
The energy shifted completely — heels off, ties loosened, music loud. Kaya and Gabriel were right in the middle of it all, fully present, fully enjoying every second. That’s always the sign of a couple who trusted their team and allowed themselves to just experience their wedding day.
A Firework Ending
And then — just when it seemed the day would remain entirely indoors — the rain cleared.
Guests gathered outside for a firework-lit exit, wrapping the night in colour and light. It felt cinematic without being forced. A perfect ending to a day that had unfolded so naturally from start to finish.
Supplier Shoutout
Venue - Carlton Towers
Hair & Make up - Janice Fan
Videography - James Tracey Films
Florist - The Blonde and the blooms