HIGHLEY MANOR Wedding
HIGHLEY MANOR Wedding
Alison & derek’s ELEGANT WEDDING AT highley manor, HAYWARDS HEATH
Some weddings feel effortlessly elegant from beginning to end, and Alison and Derek’s beautiful spring wedding at Highley Manor was definitely one of them.
Set amongst the rolling Sussex countryside near Balcombe, Highley Manor is a stunning 19th-century country manor house surrounded by picturesque grounds. With its grand interiors, beautiful parkland views and dedicated outdoor ceremony space, it’s a venue that perfectly combines timeless elegance with a relaxed country house atmosphere.
Highley Manor Wedding Venue
From the moment I arrived, it was clear that every detail of Alison and Derek’s wedding had been thoughtfully planned. Their sophisticated black-tie celebration featured a classic black and gold colour palette, creating a stylish and luxurious feel throughout the day. The day began with preparations taking place in two locations. Derek got ready at home before arriving at Highley Manor in a beautiful Jag. Meanwhile, Alison and her bridesmaids spent the morning getting ready in Highley Manor’s dedicated preparation space. One of the things I particularly love about the venue is how thoughtfully it has been designed for wedding mornings. Having a separate getting-ready room allows hair and makeup artists to work comfortably while keeping the bridal suite ready for the bride to get dressed in, if she wants to, away from the hub-bub.
Morning Preparations
As the morning unfolded and final touches were carefully made, and there was a growing sense that something special was about to happen. Alison was joined by her children, as she finally got into her stunning dress. Then nerves started to appear. The Bridal suite is a lovely space, filled with natural light, overlooking the extensive grounds. From the windows, you can enjoy views across the parkland and towards the outdoor ceremony area, creating the perfect setting for those final moments before walking down the aisle.
A Dream Outdoor Ceremony under their Pavilion
The weather kept everyone guessing throughout the morning. Alison had dreamt of an outdoor ceremony, but spring weather in Sussex can often have other ideas. The indoor ceremony room had already been set up as rain had been predicted. In fact, it was dry all morning but plot twist, it totally bucketed it down just ten minutes before the ceremony! However, thankfully, as quickly as the rain arrived, it disappeared again and the glorious sun came out. The incredible team at Highley Manor sprang into action, swiftly preparing the outdoor ceremony space as soon as Alison gave the go-ahead. Within minutes, chairs were arranged, guests were guided outside and the sun emerged from behind the clouds as if perfectly timed for the occasion. I was secretly hoping the rain would dry up and we’d get get outside. What a team! There was a quiet sense of anticipation as the bride and her children, looked out across the grounds at their seated guests. And it was then time to go!
MY HIGHLIGHTS
Here’s a selection of my favourite images from Alison & Derek’s wedding party at Highley Manor
Rain didn’t stop play!
The bridesmaids made their entrance first, looking stunning in their black dresses, and carrying simple gypsophila bouquets. They were followed by Alison, who nervously descended the manor’s beautiful oak staircase before making her way outside. At the top of the aisle, Derek’s face said it all as he saw Alison for the first time, looking absolutely breathtaking. That’s one hell of an a aisle to make your entrance down! All eyes were on Alison! The ceremony itself was heartfelt and very emotional, beautifully conducted by the registrars. Alison and Derek exchanged vows beneath the spring sunshine and there was real joy as this gorgeous couple finally got wed!! And their dream outdoor ceremony had finally become a reality. Derek’s son proudly took on the role of ring bearer, adding another meaningful family moment to the occasion, while loved ones watched on. There were plenty of smiles, a few happy tears as Alison and Derek officially became husband and wife.
Drinks, Confetti and Beautiful Details
After the ceremony there was joyful confetti, before everyone gathered for drinks and canapés. I then took a few moments to capture some of the details in the reception room – the styling was simply stunning – their black and gold theme flowed beautifully throughout the space, with elegant table settings, luxurious details creating a sophisticated atmosphere. Every element felt carefully considered and perfectly in keeping with the overall aesthetic of the day. I loved their very unique wedding cake – one side featured an elegant floral cascade, whilst the other celebrated the couple’s love of Marvel superheroes!! Before dinner, we took time for family photographs both indoors and outdoors. Highley Manor has a fabulous variety of beautiful locations for photos, regardless of the weather. After the groups, I stole Alison and Derek away for ten minutes of portraits together. As if on cue, the sunshine returned once again. Despite the busy excitement of the day, these few minutes allowed them to just pause, and soak everything up away from all their guests.
Dinner, Speeches and Evening Celebrations
Guests took their seats, and the newly weds made their entrance just as dinner service began. Speeches that followed were full of warmth, humour and emotion. Time after dinner was spent outside in the still glorious sunshine as the kids found ways to amuse themselves! And as the evening continued, the happy couple cut their cake and got their boogie on, on the dance floor. What a wedding! I get over half of my bookings year in year out from past clients and personal recommendations, and I’m always so honoured to be found and booked this way. This wedding was no exception. My truly wonderful doggy day care and second mum Sally, to my little beauty, Otto, who’s a very lively happy wire-haired dachshund, recommended me to her nephew Derek the groom and he and Alison didn’t hesitate to book. I don’t underestimate the reassurance it gives my couples, knowing people they know and trust have brought us together.
Final Thoughts -Planning Your Own Highley Manor Wedding?
From a photographer’s perspective, Highley Manor is a really stunning and versatile wedding venue for all year round. I loved shooting there and would love to go back. It’s also one of Sussex’s most elegant country house wedding venues, offering beautiful ceremony spaces, stunning grounds and a wonderfully experienced team. Whether you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, a classic black-tie celebration or an intimate family-focused wedding, it’s a fantastic venue. As a Sussex wedding photographer, I love capturing natural, timeless wedding photography across Sussex, Surrey and the South East. If you’re getting married at Highley Manor and looking for a photographer who will document your day beautifully, discreetly and authentically, I’d love to hear more about your plans.. You can get in touch via my contact page or just call 07956419207 to chat to a real person!` Want more wedding inspo, here’s a wedding I shot at Hampton Court House, which I shoot regularly at, that you might want to have a peek at.
ARE YOU GETTING MARRIED AT THE
HIGHLEY MANOR?
If you’re getting married at the fabulous Highley Manor in Sussex, or any other Sussex venue, like my relaxed style of photography, and want more information, I’d love to hear more about your wedding plans and chat about working with you!
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