Natalie and Jordi’s wedding at the stunning Hall Place & Gardens in the London Borough of Bexley was a celebration to remember. As a Spanish couple living in South-East London, they chose this historic venue for its charm and beautiful gardens. It was my pleasure to document their special day with my Gold Package, which provides eight hours of coverage. Despite the ever-changing weather, from overcast skies to bursts of sunshine and an evening shower, the day unfolded beautifully, showcasing the couple’s love and joy.


A Picture-Perfect Start


The day began with me arriving at Hall Place & Gardens to capture the venue’s timeless beauty. The historic building, with daisies blooming in the foreground, provided the perfect backdrop for establishing shots. Inside the ceremony hall, the warm and inviting atmosphere set the tone for a heartfelt celebration.


Before the guests arrived, I met with the officiant to go over the schedule, ensuring I was ready to capture every key moment. When family and friends started to arrive, I took a few group photos of Natalie and Jordi’s immediate family. The excitement and anticipation were palpable as everyone gathered for the ceremony.

A group of five intimate family guests pose together outside the red brick facade at Hall Place in Bexley wearing wedding attire.

A Heartfelt Ceremony and a Bubble-Filled Exit


The ceremony was nothing short of beautiful, with touching speeches that brought both laughter and tears. Natalie and Jordi’s son added a special touch to the occasion, cradled in Jordi’s arms during their bubble-filled exit. The alternative to traditional confetti added a whimsical and modern feel, and I was thrilled to capture this unique moment.


Exploring Hall Place & Gardens


Following the ceremony, we transitioned to the gardens for group photos and a couple’s session. The lush greenery and historic architecture of Hall Place offered an array of stunning backdrops. For the first part of the session, their son joined in, making for some heartwarming family portraits. Afterward, I guided Natalie and Jordi around the gardens for more intimate shots as a couple. The overcast skies created soft, even lighting that enhanced the filmic style they requested for their images, a look I achieved using my Sony a7RV and custom made presets that emulate film.


The gardens at Hall Place are truly a photographer’s dream, with picturesque settings ranging from the meticulously maintained topiary lawn to charming nooks adorned with seasonal blooms. We made use of these spaces to craft a variety of shots that felt both natural and cinematic, perfectly reflecting Natalie and Jordi’s vision for their wedding gallery.


A Festive Reception Full of Surprises


The reception was a lively affair filled with music, dancing, and heartfelt moments. The couple made their grand entrance to cheers, swirling napkins, and a burst of celebratory energy. Guests tapped their glasses, prompting Natalie and Jordi to stand on their chairs and kiss, a playful tradition that added to the joyous atmosphere.


One of the highlights was when friends surprised the couple with golden balloons, each adorned with photos of their journey together. They danced into the reception hall in a conga line, leading everyone onto the dance floor. This spontaneous celebration embodied the couple’s vibrant personalities and the love shared among their guests.


After a delicious meal, the couple cut their multi-tiered cake, featuring an adorable bride and groom topper, before sharing their first dance. As the evening progressed, the dance floor became the heart of the celebration, with everyone joining in the fun. I made sure to capture the laughter, hugs, and uninhibited joy that filled the room, creating a visual narrative that they’ll cherish forever.


Rain, Romance, and a Memorable Farewell


As the night drew to a close, the rain began to fall. Rather than seeing it as a challenge, I saw an opportunity to create something truly magical. Under a clear umbrella and backlit by my lighting setup, Natalie and Jordi shared a romantic moment in the rain. These photos captured the essence of their day: love shining through no matter the circumstances.


Before saying goodbye, I wished the newlyweds all the best and reflected on what an honour it was to document their incredible day. These final images, with raindrops glistening like stars around them, are among my favourites from their wedding.


5 FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT HALL PLACE & GARDENS


  1. A Tudor Treasure: Hall Place is a Grade I listed Tudor mansion built in 1537, offering a glimpse into England’s rich history.
  2. Stunning Gardens: The 65 hectares of gardens include a topiary lawn, tropical glasshouse, and manicured flowerbeds, perfect for wedding photography.
  3. Riverside Setting: The venue is situated along the River Cray, adding to its scenic charm.
  4. Versatile Spaces: From the historic Great Hall to the modern Riverside Café, Hall Place offers a variety of settings for events.
  5. Award-Winning Venue: Hall Place has received numerous accolades for its preservation and as a sought-after event location in South-East London.


Why Choose Martin Sylvester Photography?


Your wedding day deserves to be captured with care, creativity, and professionalism. With over a decade of experience and a modern, storytelling approach, I specialise in creating relaxed yet impactful imagery that tells your unique story. Whether it’s a sunny day or a rainy evening, I adapt to every moment to ensure your photos reflect the beauty and emotions of your celebration.


As a photographer familiar with Hall Place & Gardens, I know how to make the most of its incredible settings, from the iconic Tudor architecture to the enchanting gardens. My goal is to create timeless images that will transport you back to every joyful moment of your special day.


If you’re planning a wedding at Hall Place & Gardens or anywhere in South-East London, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s create timeless memories together.



Enquire now to secure your date and let’s start planning how to bring your wedding vision to life. Click the button below to contact me directly, and let’s make magic together!


Elegant wood-paneled wedding venue with white chiavari chairs and crystal chandelier in warm lighting.
Elegant brass chandelier with multiple candle lights hanging from dark wooden ceiling.
White floral table centerpiece with greenery and candles on white linen.
Wedding table numbers and decorative frames sit on a dark wooden surface with soft floral accents in the background.
Traditional English manor house with brick facade seen across a wildflower meadow dotted with daisies on an overcast day.
Historic brick building with white windows and blooming cherry blossoms in spring.
Two women stroll together outdoors wearing formal attire, one in a flowing white dress and one in grey lace.
People running joyfully through a historic village street with brick buildings and lampposts in the background.
Profile shot of person in navy suit with patterned bow tie against dark background.
A woman in a dark green sweater and black midi skirt stands next to a brick building with flower beds.