Grace & Hallam | Buxton, England

When you dream of a wedding filled with colour... 

Sparkling shoes, colourful florals, and beautiful company. Swing lessons, outdoor ceremonies and disco set against a beautiful nature lovers backdrop. Grace & Hallam’s wedding was absolute perfection, and yes – THAT fairytale dip at the beautiful Gradbach Mill, Buxton. 

An exclusive wedding venue nestled in the heart of the Peak District. 

Grace & Hallam’s day was planned to perfection, with the aim of keeping their loved ones entertained from start to finish, there was never a dull moment. From the minute Grace stepped out of the white and orange Mustang GT Auto surrounded by nature and the backdrop of the Mill, to the words of kindness and love that filled the speeches, there wasn’t a dry eye in the place.  

If you dream of getting married with an outdoor ceremony, then this place might just steal your heart too. 

Vintage elegance for an authentic bride getting ready at The Crescent... 

The morning started in the best possible way – slowly. 

All great days start with a slow, calming feel to them; that's not to say you’re feeling it inside, but the atmosphere was beautiful. Grace has impeccable taste from vintage head piece, classic make-up from Hannah Gill Make-Up Artist (an absolute master in her craft of makeup staying all day), and sleek dress to the colour scheme of the party’s dresses and sparkling shoes. PERFECTION! 

Grace had their partner Natalie, and good friend Sophia with them for the morning – peaceful and intimate. The girls spent the morning getting ready at The Buxton Crescent Hotel & Spa with breakfast delivered and bubbles served, before getting into their dresses and heading to the ceremony. The girls wore varying shades of pinks, reds and oranges which popped beautifully! 

A ceremony by the riverside... 

Opposite the mill itself, nestled between the walking fields and river is The Riverside Gazebo. Floral designer Alexa, The Spa Town Florist, created an absolute dream of beautiful bouquets and ceremony florals which looked incredible set against the brick and trees, including two 6ft matching floral pillars, one at either side of the fence creating the most beautiful ceremony center piece.  

The sun was shining, Chiavari chairs were placed angling the center so everyone could enjoy the ceremony without a moment missing, and Hallam stood waiting meet his future wife as she was walked down the aisle by her dad. They chose beautiful personalised readings to complete their union and there were some beautiful moments throughout with Grace, Hallam & Natalie.  

A personalised Swing dance lesson and a brass band! 

Having shared joy in swing dance lessons together, the newlyweds treat their guests to a full swing dance lesson from their wonderful friends, which created some of the best laughs I've seen between the partner switching, speeding up and addition of steps!  

The sun was setting and unlike the usual British weather of wind and rain, the sunshine was golden! Drinks were flowing, feet were moving, and Grace opted for a quick change to suit the mood. Gradbach Mill did not disappoint with this lively bunch and with just enough time to refill your glass, The Brass Rascals were playing songs from the 90’s and the 00’s whilst Grace pulled out capes, hats and glasses from her bag of tricks to keep everyone enjoying the vibe. 

Quite possibly my favourite fairytale moment... 

Hallam dropped Grace into THE fairytale dip, a wedding photographer's dream, a moment of bliss, and they absolutely nailed it! Yes, we did an ‘eeek’ and they got a bunch of cheers from the guests taking a peek.  

Beautiful, classy and natural was the vibe for the portraits. 

It's crucial for me that these felt true to them, and they each felt comfortable. I cannot tell you how many times I let out happy sighs during this day – to capture a wedding day will always be special, but being trusted with acceptance and love is something so beautiful – I'll be forever grateful.  

Looking for your own photographer at Gradbach Mill?  

I absolutely adored working here: the staff are incredible, the food is delicious, and the place is just wonderful! So, if you’re thinking of getting married here, I’d love to hear from you!