THE happiest place in london!


It's the home of Ted Lasso, fallow deer, and England Rugby - but it's also one of London's most underrated wedding spots. If you're not keen on the hustle and bustle of the city centre, but still wanting to get married in the big smoke, then Richmond is the place to be. I promise I'm not biased (but I am from Twickenham!)

YORK HOUSE


York House is Richmond's registry office.  It backs onto stunning riverside gardens, and is within easy walking distance from Twickenham's famous Church Street. The Winter Garden Room, with its gorgeous glass ceiling and climbing plants, is a popular choice for larger ceremonies, while the smaller parlour rooms are perfect for an intimate gathering.


I've shot many weddings at York House (it's practically my second home) and I can't speak highly enough of how friendly the staff are. There's a warm energy about the place, and every ceremony is conducted with care. I know the surrounding gardens like the back of my hand, and if you ask nicely I will even show you some of the questionable A level photography projects I shot there many years ago!



ORLEANS GALLERY


Just round the corner from York House is the stunning Orleans Gallery with it's fabulous Baroque style Octogon room. It's a classy, timeless setting for a wedding, with a real wow factor. Orleans is one of Richmond's approved venues, and you can be married here by a registrar.  At a recent wedding I shot here, the couple walked in to the Bridgerton soundtrack, which felt absolutely in keeping with the setting!


If you're passing through the area, it's worth taking a peek at the cafe and exhibition rooms in the renovated stables.

Strawberry hill house


Maybe South West London's best kept secret. This is an *actual* gothic castle, complete with turrets and everything. Built by author Horace Walpole, the place is full of stunning details, artwork and stained glass. I'm not one to attach the term 'fairytale' to a venue without reason, but this place does earn the title. You can have your ceremony and reception all in one place, with free rein of the surrounding gardens.




the peggy jean


For a relaxed meal after your ceremony, there's no better place than the Peggy Jean, Richmond's floating restaurant! This beautiful boat is docked just beside the bridge and has both indoor and deck seating.


I highly recommend the shakshouka.




eEL PIE ISLAND, TWICKENHAM ROWING CLUB


Eel Pie island is a residential island on the Thames, home to a community of artists and an active shipyard. Before I was a wedding photographer, I actually worked in one of the few offices on the island. The place is incredibly close to my heart - it's eclectic and quirky, and feels a world away from the city. The boat club is a perfect reception venue, with a dining room, dance floor and outdoor terrace.


The island is only accessible by footbridge, so it's worth keeping an eye on the tide times when you plan your day. I have had to wander ashore in a pair of communal wellies at my old job!




honourable mentions


Hammerton's Ferry

A family run business connecting the Richmond towpath with the other side of the river, Ham.  It's a quick ride, for those worried about seasickness. Ham is home to a a lovely National Trust property, and more importantly, a wonderful German bakery, Hansel and Pretzel.


The white cross pub

The pub that's always doing the rounds on TikTok for flooding all the way up to the terrace. A smart way of forcing punters to keep a bar tab open until the tide goes down.


RICHMOND BRIDGE BOAT HIRE

Like the name suggests! Hire a rowing boat with your lover and sail down the Thames. How romantic.


where should we take pictures?


Here's a little gallery of my favourite places, with a feature from some local geese. I provide my couples with detailed information about all the best spots ahead of time!