Georgia & Matt's Tipi Wedding at Whatton House

Tipis at Whatton House — Leicestershire

A laid-back couple full of laughs, and a swing that nearly sent the groom flying.

Georgia got ready at her home just a short drive from Whatton House, and the morning couldn’t have been more perfect — think sunshine pouring in through the windows, a playlist of nostalgic bangers, and a buzz of excitement that you could feel in your chest.

Prosecco flowed like a celebration starter pack, and the room was filled with the kind of energy only a bride and her favourite people can create. And then, as the curlers cooled and the dresses were zipped, Georgia stepped out for not one, but two emotional first looks.

First came the bridesmaids’ reveal — cue the gasps, squeals, and a few well-up-with-tears moments as Georgia floated into the room in her dress, looking like she’d just wandered out of a bridal Pinterest board. Her girls' reactions were pure magic and had me frantically snapping while trying not to get teary myself (occupational hazard).

Then came the big one — Dad’s first look. Now, if you’ve ever seen a grown man try not to cry and absolutely fail in front of a camera, you’ll know exactly the kind of moment this was. Raw, honest, heart-melting. And completely unforgettable.

Every part of Georgia’s prep was infused with laughter, nerves, love, and just the right amount of chaos — exactly how it should be on the morning of a Whatton House tipi wedding.

While Georgia was sipping prosecco and getting glammed up just down the road, Matt was also keeping it local — getting ready with his family at a nearby house. And in true laid-back groom fashion, the morning started not with nerves, but with an absolute feast.

We’re talking a full-on breakfast spread. Bacon, eggs, sausages, the works — basically a fry-up big enough to feed a rugby team, not just the wedding party. And honestly? It set the tone. The vibe was chill, full of banter, and a bit of "Where are my cufflinks?!" chaos.

Between bites of toast and buttoning waistcoats, there were proper family moments happening — the kind that get missed in the rush of the day. I snuck around, capturing the laughter, the sibling side-eyes, and even a moment or two of quiet reflection before the big ‘I do’.

Set in the lush gardens of Whatton House, Georgia & Matt tied the knot in a tipi that looked straight out of a boho dream. The weather was chef’s kiss perfection — warm, sunny, with just the right amount of breeze to make the bunting flutter dramatically in the background.

The ceremony was intimate, heartfelt, and full of joy. A few happy tears, a whole lot of smiles, and a perfect "we did it" moment sealed with a kiss.

Now, if you’re picturing a typical chilly British April wedding — overcast skies and guests politely shivering in the shade — think again.

Georgia & Matt’s drinks reception at Whatton House was scorching. Honestly, I’ve been on summer holidays that felt less tropical. The sun was blazing, the drinks were flowing, and the guests looked like they’d stepped straight out of a lifestyle magazine — minus the melting makeup and slightly sunburnt shoulders, of course.

We breezed through a few relaxed group shots in the gardens — nothing too rigid, just genuine smiles and a bit of banter. It was the perfect chance to capture those natural moments — hugs, handshakes, and champagne being passed like Olympic torches.

Every detail of the day felt personal — including the wedding favours, which were tiny cactus plants, naturally. Because nothing says "we love you" like a spiky succulent you have to remember to water.

And then came the table Jenga. Oh yes. Forget your croquet and giant Connect 4 — this lot were serious about their Jenga. Staring contests, tactical moves, and one collapse that sent Prosecco flying. If you’re ever wondering how to keep your guests entertained while I snap away, just add sunshine and a stack of oversized wooden blocks.

The wedding breakfast was served in the stunning tipi at Whatton House, with sunlight streaming through the canvas and the clink of glasses setting the scene. Guests tucked into a cracking meal (second only to that breakfast Matt and the lads demolished earlier), and then came the speeches — a perfect mix of heartfelt and hilarious. Georgia and Matt's nearest and dearest delivered stories that had the room in stitches one minute and welling up the next. Classic emotional rollercoaster — just how we like it.

Guests were invited to scribble down their best advice for the new Mr and Mrs. Now, whether that advice was heartfelt, hilarious, or just mildly concerning is up for debate — but every note added a personal touch to the day. From “never go to bed angry” to “always let them have the last chip,” the cards were full of golden nuggets and cheeky one-liners that Georgia and Matt will treasure (and probably giggle over) for years to come.

Dancing, Doughnuts, and Dodgy Moves

As the sun dipped behind Whatton House and the fairy lights took over the heavy lifting, the evening party kicked off in style. Georgia and Matt took to the floor for their first dance — equal parts romance and rhythm, with just a hint of “please don’t step on my toes.” It was the perfect way to open the dancefloor, and let’s just say... the guests did not need a second invitation.

Whatton House weddings are made for golden hour — it’s like the venue was built for that soft, honey-glow kind of magic. Georgia & Matt absolutely nailed it: relaxed, radiant, and laughing the whole time.

And then… the swing happened.

You see, there’s a charming little double child’s swing tucked away in the grounds. Georgia and Matt jumped on for a playful shot — and let’s just say it nearly turned into an unplanned trip to A&E. One wrong lean and Matt was halfway to orbit. Thankfully, I caught the moment on camera (because of course I did), and no grooms were harmed in the making of these photos.

As darkness fell over Whatton House, it was time for the sparkler send-off — and it did not disappoint. Guests lined up, lighters ready (eventually), and Georgia & Matt strolled through a tunnel of twinkling lights with big grins and zero burn marks.

There’s something about sparklers after dark that hits different — and when paired with the magic of a Whatton House wedding, it’s the kind of ending that feels straight out of a film. A slightly chaotic, deeply romantic, heartwarming kind of film.

Georgia's Words — Not mine.

“James was a brilliant photographer at our wedding! He made us both feel so at ease during the day and as a couple who don’t like to have our photos taken… James did a tremendous job at capturing our fabulous day and directing us on what to do to get the best shots. Even our guests said that they didn’t notice James taking photos of them and we didn’t feel like we spent our whole day taking photos. We are so happy with the end results of our photo gallery and will cherish our photos forever! Would definitely recommend.”

Planning a Whatton House Wedding?
Whether you’re into tipis, twinkly lights, rogue swings, or just want someone who’ll capture the whole story without making it feel like a 12-hour photoshoot — I’ve got you.

Let’s make your day unforgettable — in all the best ways.

Collection Chosen —

Most popular
The Signature Collection
£1495.

The Signature Collection is my full-day wedding photography experience for couples who want the whole story of their day captured naturally and with care — from the excitement of the morning right through to the atmosphere of the evening celebrations. It is designed for couples who want to be fully present on the day, while knowing the big moments, quiet moments and everything in between are being documented beautifully.