Why Blake Hall is the Perfect Wedding Venue
Nestled in the heart of Essex, Blake Hall is a venue combining rustic charm with modern elegance. With its beautifully restored 17th-century barns, vibrant gardens, and stunning wisteria wall, this venue provides a picturesque setting for your wedding. As a proud recommended supplier for Blake Hall, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing several celebrations here. I’m always thrilled to return to this venue, and I can’t wait to capture more moments for couples getting married at Blake Hall.
The Ceremony Barn: A Window to Your Love Story
The Hay Barn at Blake Hall is where the magic begins. With its stunning high ceilings, wooden beams, and the iconic floor-to-ceiling window, this space floods with natural light, making it an ideal spot for a light and bright photography style.
Within the Hay Barn is a mezzanine balcony which looks over the ceremony. This space is perfect for when you have a second photographer as you can get some beautiful alternative angles. As well as a second angle for your wedding photographer I have also seen the space used for the String Quartet.
In inclement weather or on colder days the Hay Barn can be used to host your drinks reception, keeping things cosy and separate from the Essex Barn where the afternoon/evening festivities unfold.
The Main Reception Barn: Celebrations in Style
After the vows, head to the Essex Barn for your reception. This spacious and beautifully restored 17th-century barn provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for dining and dancing. The neutral tones and rustic touches are perfect for customising your wedding décor, while the twinkling fairy lights add a magical feel to your photos.
The Coach House: A Place to Prepare and Stay
Blake Hall’s Coach House offers on-site accommodation for you and your bridal party. It’s the perfect place for capturing those getting-ready photos with your loved ones. As it is out of the way from the guest’s arrival you can use the front of the Coach house as a backdrop to some pre-ceremony photos, just be ready a little bit earlier to allow time for this.
Top Spots for Wedding Photos at Blake Hall
At Blake Hall, you are spoilt for choice with many photo opportunities:
- The Wisteria Wall: When in bloom (usually May/June), this cascading floral display is a showstopper and makes for stunning couple portraits.
- The Swing in the Walled Garden: A whimsical touch that’s perfect for capturing playful and romantic moments.
- The Gardens: With blooming roses and manicured lawns, the gardens offer an idyllic backdrop for both group shots and intimate couple photos.
- Golden Hour Magic: The open grounds in evening light are ideal for soft, romantic golden-hour portraits. I recommend going towards the driveway to capture the last of the golden light.
- Flower Meadow: In recent years Blake Hall has had a flower meadow which makes a beautiful backdrop for photos.
What Makes My Photography Style Unique?
I focus on creating natural, timeless images that capture the joy and emotions of your big day. Couples often tell me I make them feel completely at ease in front of the camera, ensuring their photos are relaxed, genuine, and full of personality.
Testimonials from Happy Couples at Blake Hall
Here’s what some of my past couples have said about their experience working with me at Blake Hall:
“Her photos were simply stunning – bright, light and airy, and beautifully captured the happiness of the day.” – Kira & Jack
“Gemma truly is amazing at her job, she captured our day better than we could of imagined, making sure all our family including the 4-legged were part of it! Wouldn’t of trusted anyone else!” – Coral & Ellis
“Gemma has a wonderful charm about her, is an absolute pleasure to work with and was an amazing help leading up to our wedding.” – Leanne & Tom
Gallery: My Favorite Blake Hall Moments
Planning Your Blake Hall Wedding? Let’s Chat!
I’d love to hear about your wedding plans and how I can help bring your vision to life. As someone who knows this venue well, I can provide personalised advice on the best photo spots, lighting, and timelines to make the most of your day.
Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life
Ready to start planning? Get in touch and let’s schedule a call to chat about your big day and how we can work together!