Shaun & Chris .. The Beast from the East!
Quick Answer
Shaun and Chris’s wedding at Stirk House in Gisburn during the Beast from the East was a beautiful celebration despite the freezing weather. We captured heartfelt portraits, fun moments with their French Bulldogs, and unique shots like a boxing ring fight, all while adapting to the challenging conditions to preserve their special day.
Welcome to another beautiful Yorkshire wedding story. As a wedding photographer with over 25 years of experience capturing special moments across York, Leeds, Harrogate, and the Yorkshire Dales, I love sharing these real love stories. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, I hope this post gives you plenty of inspiration for your own big day.
Where Did Shaun and Chris’s Wedding Take Place?
Shaun and Chris chose the stunning Stirk House in Gisburn for their wedding, just a short drive west from Yorkshire. This charming venue, nestled in the Lancashire countryside, offered a beautiful backdrop that was a refreshing change from my usual Yorkshire locations like Harrogate and York. It was a real pleasure to explore this area and capture their special day there.
What Was It Like Meeting Shaun and Chris Before Their Wedding?
Meeting Shaun and Chris at Stirk House in February was an absolute delight. Their warmth and vibrant personalities made it clear their wedding would be full of fun and heartfelt moments. I also had the chance to catch up with my good friend Peter Anslow, who knows the venue well and shared some invaluable local tips. It’s always great to connect with fellow photographers, especially when stepping outside Yorkshire.
Why Are Pre-Wedding Shoots Important?
We arranged a pre-wedding shoot with Shaun and Chris, which I believe is one of the best ways to ease any camera nerves and really get to know each other. These relaxed sessions help me understand the couple’s style and personality, which makes the wedding day photography flow naturally. Plus, the photos from the shoot often become cherished keepsakes or even part of the wedding decor.
How Did the Beast from the East Weather Impact the Wedding Day?
The infamous Beast from the East was looming over us with freezing temperatures and biting winds. I was genuinely concerned about making it to Gisburn safely, but the roads were clear, and the journey went smoothly. Still, the chill was a challenge for everyone, especially during outdoor portraits. We had to be quick and creative to capture beautiful images without anyone freezing.
What Was the Atmosphere Like When You Arrived?
Arriving early, I found Shaun and Chris sharing a cheeky vape, which immediately set a relaxed and playful tone for the day. Their style and charisma shone through from the very start, and it was a joy to capture those intimate preparation moments. You could tell this was going to be a wedding full of personality and genuine emotion.
Did Shaun and Chris Include Their Pets in the Wedding?
Absolutely! Their two French Bulldogs, Luna and Franc, were part of the celebration and brought so much joy to the day. Franc had recently recovered from spinal surgery, so it was heartwarming to see him doing so well with Luna by his side. Including pets always adds a lovely personal touch to wedding photos, and these two almost stole the show.
How Did You Handle Group Shots in the Freezing Cold?
With temperatures hovering around -10 degrees and a sharp wind chill, Shaun and Chris made the sensible decision to keep group shots brief. We quickly captured a confetti moment and then focused on portraits that could be done efficiently. Their bravery in braving the cold paid off with some stunning images that truly captured the spirit of the day despite the weather.
What Was the Wedding Breakfast Like?
The wedding breakfast took place in a beautiful room that added warmth and elegance to the celebration. Shaun and Chris were incredibly generous, treating me to a delicious meal which was much appreciated after a long day of shooting. These thoughtful moments make my job even more rewarding and memorable.
Were There Any Unique or Unexpected Moments During the Day?
One of the most memorable and unusual moments was photographing a playful “fight” in a boxing ring. Don’t worry, it was all in good fun, but it definitely added a unique twist to the day and created some fantastic, energetic shots. It’s moments like these that make every wedding special and different.
How Did the Evening and First Dance Go?
After their first dance, Shaun and Chris showed incredible determination by stepping back outside into the freezing night for some final photographs. Their energy and enthusiasm never waned, and those chilly evening shots are some of my favourites from the day. It was a perfect way to end a truly memorable celebration.
What Are Shaun and Chris Doing Now?
At the time of writing, Shaun and Chris are enjoying a sunny honeymoon in the United States, indulging in amazing food and relaxation. Their social media posts have been tempting, and I might need a little break to stop drooling over their culinary adventures! It was a privilege to capture their first Lancashire wedding, and I’m grateful to Stirk House for their warm welcome. I look forward to returning for more beautiful weddings in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Stirk House located?
Stirk House is situated in the picturesque village of Gisburn, Lancashire, just a short drive from Yorkshire’s border. It’s a countryside venue full of character, ideal for couples seeking a charming and intimate wedding setting.
Do you often photograph weddings outside Yorkshire?
While the majority of my work is centred around Yorkshire locations like Leeds, York, and the Yorkshire Dales, I do occasionally travel to nearby areas such as Lancashire for special weddings. Shaun and Chris’s wedding was my first outside Yorkshire, and it was a wonderful experience expanding my horizons.
How do you cope with extreme weather on wedding days?
Preparation is key. I always bring extra gear, like tyre socks for icy roads and alternative plans for photography if the weather turns. On Shaun and Chris’s day, we adapted by keeping outdoor sessions brief and focusing on portraits that worked well despite the cold conditions.
Can pets be included in wedding photography?
Definitely! Including pets like Shaun and Chris’s French Bulldogs adds a heartfelt and personal element to wedding photos. I love working with couples to incorporate their furry family members into the celebration.
What benefits does a pre-wedding shoot offer?
A pre-wedding shoot helps couples feel more relaxed and confident in front of the camera. It also builds a connection between us, allowing me to capture their true personalities on the big day. Plus, these photos can be used for invitations, guest books, or simply treasured memories.
If you’re planning your own Yorkshire wedding, whether in a grand country house in North Yorkshire or a stylish city venue in Leeds, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch today and let’s have a relaxed chat about capturing your special day.
If you are ready to start planning your Yorkshire wedding photography, I would love to hear from you. Get in touch today and let us have a relaxed chat about your wedding day. Whether you are getting married at a grand country house in North Yorkshire or a stylish city venue in Leeds, I will make sure every precious moment is captured beautifully.
Ben Cumming is an award-winning Yorkshire Wedding Photographer, recognized with accolades like The Photographers Bar from The Guild of Photographers and holding ‘Qualified’ status in the UK. Specializing in capturing unique love stories, Ben offers a versatile style, from soft floral tones to dramatic imagery. Based in Batley, he has extensively photographed weddings across Yorkshire, including Huddersfield. Beyond wedding photography, Ben also provides portrait sessions and mentors aspiring photographers. He is a proud member of The Fellowship of Photographers Association and is highly recommended by numerous wedding venues, dedicated to making each couple’s special day unforgettable through his lens.
