Joanna + Mike
What's more glamorous and decadent than a New Years Eve wedding? A black tie new years eve wedding, in Manchester, obv.
Joanna + Mike hosted their intimate wedding day at Manchester Hall, a historic venue in the heart of Manchester city centre. Of course, it was biblical rain all day, wouldn't quite be Manchester without it, would it? But it didn't matter at all, as this venue set over 3 floors had more than enough beautiful interiors to create some iconic images.
Joanna got ready in the hotel rooms downstairs, each of which is themed around a different Manchester icon, the bridal suite being the Elizabeth Gaskell room. Jo's friend did all the hair and makeup for the morning, and all the girls had a classic, Old Hollywood timeless style. The guys arrived to the venue just for their finishing touches, and got to enjoy the uber cool Club Room, with it's plush red sofas and beautiful window light. With just 40 of their closest friends and family present, Jo walked down the aisle to Mike. An especially touching moment in the ceremony was Mike noticing Jo get teary through her personal vows, and him quickly removing his pocket square for her to use as a tissue. Confetti was thrown as they walked back down the aisle, and we went straight into some family portraits, indoors keeping out of the rain, and making use of that Club Room and it's chaise lounge. For the couple portraits, we had a sneak into the wedding breakfast room, which had been transformed by Willow + Fig stylist and florist, in rich burgundy tones and seasonal florals. With all the candles it looked incredible, perfect for a luxurious and cosy atmosphere and perfect for the time of year. We used what was left of the late afternoon light through the windows, and went up to the ballroom to have a practice of the first dance.
Jo did a casual speech in the cocktail hour, before letting the guys take the mic in the wedding breakfast room, with Mike, Jo's dad, and Mike's brother all delivering poignant speeches. These are some of my favourite images, with all the candles and the guests onlooking as the couple received their speeches. For their first dance, Jo and Mike had been to dance lessons and had a choreographed routine, which surprised everyone but also looked amazing on camera, finishing with that iconic dip! The energy in the room was electric and the dancefloor filled up as they welcomed everyone to the floor to join them. I loved photographing this wedding, they had such a strong vision and aesthetic for the day, which ran seamlessly throughout, but also they enjoyed the day together, and took every moment in. What a way to finish an incredible 2024 season, and welcome 2025!
Venue - Manchester Hall
Florals - Willow + Fig and Aspen and Ivy
Dress - Dotty Bridal
