There are some weddings that feel timeless the moment you arrive — and Issy & John’s day was exactly that. Think rolling Shropshire countryside, a village church filled with familiar faces, and the kind of romance that wouldn’t feel out of place in a 90s rom-com. For me, this is where film wedding photography really shines.

From the soft light to the slower pace of the day, it was the perfect match.

A village church close to home

Issy and John were married at Selattyn Church, a place filled with meaning. Issy grew up in the village, and her mum still lives there.

One of the most special moments of the day happened quietly, before the ceremony even began — walking from her mum’s house to the church with her mum and sisters.

“It also meant I had absolutely no excuse to be late.”

From a photography point of view, this part of the morning was gold. Natural light, real emotion, no rushing — exactly the kind of moments I love capturing on film.
(If you’re planning something similar, you might enjoy my post on why I love photographing relaxed wedding mornings).

A relaxed countryside reception at Sweeney Hall

The celebrations continued at Sweeney Hall Hotel in Oswestry, a beautiful family-run country hotel in Shropshire.Issy and John wanted the day to feel relaxed, romantic and focused on people and not perfection.

Originally, they’d dreamed of an Italian wedding — but decided instead to bring a taste of Italy to the English countryside, so more friends and family could be there.And honestly? It worked beautifully.

The staff at Sweeney Hall were incredible, making sure everyone was well fed, well watered, and having a genuinely good time. No stiff formalities. Just warmth, laughter and connection.

The dress: vintage, timeless, and full of character

Issy’s dress was a dream to photograph on film.

Her style naturally leans towards the past, and the dress reflected that perfectly — with a Golden Age Hollywood / 1950s feel that felt elegant, confident and completely her.

This is one of the reasons I love shooting film:

• Soft highlights
• Beautiful skin tones
• A timeless finish that doesn’t date

It complements vintage-inspired styling so effortlessly.
(You can see more examples over on my film wedding portfolio).

Why this day worked so beautifully

Throughout the planning, Issy and John kept coming back to one simple truth:

“The most important part of the day was us marrying each other.”

Everything else was secondary.

That mindset takes the pressure off — and it shows in the photos. When couples are present, relaxed and surrounded by people they love, the day naturally unfolds in the best way possible.

And that’s where film wedding photography really comes into its own.

A note for couples considering film photography

If you’re planning your own wedding and wondering whether film is right for you, here’s what it brings to days like this:

• A slower, more intentional approach
• Soft, romantic tones
• Emotion over perfection
• Photos that feel lived-in, not over-polished

It’s ideal for:

• Countryside weddings
• Church ceremonies
• Vintage or classic styling
• Couples who care more about feeling than posing

(You might also like my guide on what it’s like to have a film wedding photographer).

Issy & John, thank you

Issy and John — thank you for trusting me to capture your day on film. It was heartfelt, joyful, quietly emotional and full of meaning. The kind of wedding that reminds me exactly why I do this.

Find below a curated selection of some of our favourite photos.

And if you’re dreaming of a relaxed, romantic celebration and are drawn to the timeless feel of film wedding photography, I’d love to hear about your plans.