Lisa & John’s Intimate Wedding at The Upper House, Stoke-on-Trent
In May, I photographed Lisa and John’s wedding at The Upper House in Stoke-on-Trent. It sits in the Staffordshire countryside, a big old house with gardens all around it, and it suits a relaxed, countryside wedding really well.
I caught up with Lisa and John a few weeks before, and they knew exactly what they wanted. No big fuss. A small wedding with their favourite people, plenty of time to enjoy it, and a laid back feel from start to finish.
Morning at The Upper House
I arrived to find the place in full sunshine, which was good news for an outdoor ceremony. Lisa was getting ready on site and didn’t want any prep photos (totally fair, your day, your way), but I popped up to say hello anyway. She was buzzing, and very clearly ready to get married.
Downstairs, John arrived looking sharp and smiling. He handed out personalised pocket watches to his close friends, a thoughtful touch and a nice moment to photograph. Then the guests started arriving, the hugs started, and I was very much in my element.
The Staircase and an Outdoor Ceremony
There was one photo Lisa really wanted: her walking down the grand staircase inside The Upper House. It’s some staircase. Lisa came down with the biggest smile on her face, and it ended up being one of my favourite frames of the day.
I nipped back outside in time to photograph her walking down the aisle towards John. The ceremony was full of laughter, with a couple of cracking readings that had everyone chuckling. Then that was that, married. Big cheers and even bigger grins all round.
Confetti, Hugs and a Receiving Line
Straight after the ceremony, Lisa and John did a receiving line, which I honestly think more couples should consider. They got to speak to every guest, and I got a lot of hugs to photograph, which suits me fine. Then came the confetti, and the guests really went for it.
The drinks reception had a lovely easy feel. Everyone relaxed, catching up and enjoying themselves. One of the guests was taking a few snaps too, and afterwards they sent me some photos of me working, which was a really kind surprise.
Portraits and Group Shots (Not Too Many)
Lisa and John wanted their wedding photographed as naturally as possible, so we kept the group photos and portraits short. Just the essentials, without pulling them away from their guests for long. The Upper House has plenty of nice spots nearby, so it didn’t take much wandering to get some relaxed portraits that felt like them.
Speeches Full of Laughter
After a bit more mingling, everyone headed in for the wedding breakfast and speeches. Funny and heartfelt in equal measure, with proper belly laughs and a few teary eyes. That’s what I like about smaller weddings. Everyone in the room knows each other, and it shows.
Evening and the Dance Floor
The evening guests brought a fresh wave of energy and, yes, more hugs. Lisa and John cut their cake and then took to the floor for their first dance. They’d told me they weren’t big dancers. They smashed it. Before long the dance floor was full of guests throwing shapes and singing along.
Photographing people letting loose at the end of the night never gets old. It’s a brilliant way to finish a wedding.
A Few Final Words
Before I knew it, it was time to pack up and head home with full memory cards. A huge thank you to Lisa and John for having me and making me feel so welcome. Your wedding was heartfelt, fun and completely you. And to the staff at The Upper House, thank you for keeping everything running so smoothly.
Favourite Moments from the Day
- Lisa’s big smile walking down that staircase
- The hilarious and heartwarming ceremony readings
- Confetti chaos with the loudest cheers
- The surprise guest snaps of me at work
- Dance floor madness to end the night
My Thoughts on The Upper House as a Wedding Venue
If you’re considering The Upper House for your wedding, here’s what stood out to me:
- The setting: peaceful, private countryside
- Indoor and outdoor ceremony options: handy if the weather plays up (we got lucky)
- That grand staircase: a brilliant spot for a portrait
- Helpful staff: friendly, professional and always on hand
- Laid back atmosphere: ideal for a relaxed, smaller wedding
FAQs
Where is The Upper House located?
The Upper House is in Barlaston, just outside Stoke-on-Trent, in the Staffordshire countryside.
Does The Upper House allow outdoor ceremonies?
Yes. Lisa and John married outside on a sunny May day, and it worked brilliantly. It’s worth asking the venue about the indoor option too, just in case.
Are there good spots for wedding portraits?
Yes. The grand staircase indoors and the gardens outside give you plenty of options for relaxed portraits, all close to your guests.
Is this a good venue for a smaller wedding?
I think so. It has a warm, welcoming feel, and Lisa and John’s intimate wedding fitted it really well.
Planning a Wedding at The Upper House?
If you’re planning your own wedding at The Upper House, or any venue with a relaxed, intimate feel, and you want natural photos of the real moments, I’d love to hear from you.
Tell me a bit about your plans and we’ll see if we’re a good fit.
