Otley Chevin County park hotel
Chevin Country Park Hotel is a hidden gem nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Otley, West Yorkshire. This hotel has a very serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect wedding venue away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The stunning surroundings of Chevin Country Park, with its lush greenery, tranquil lake, and woodland, provide a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable wedding photography. It’s been a few years since I photographed at wedding here, so it was so great to be back for Laura and Ryan’s wedding. The Chevin Country Park Hotel offers a truly indulgent experience for every guest wedding guests and of course the married couple.
The day started in the log cabins for bridal preparations on a very hot summer’s day. Here’s a Q&A with Ryan and Laura and the highlights from their fun packed wedding at Otley Chevin Hotel
How did you met and propose?
We matched on Tinder and got talking. There was instantly a connection. We met up and spent a night watching Disney films and having drinks. Fast forward 3 years later, on Laura’s birthday, after lockdown and being able to have friends over, I popped the question, and Laura.. said yes!
Wedding photography at Chevin Country Park Hotel in Otley
How did you feel in the lead up of your wedding morning and as you waited for your bride/walked down the aisle?
Ryan: I didn’t feel nervous at all until the morning of the wedding. As much as I tried to hide it, which I thought I was doing quite well, everyone knew. Waiting at the end of the aisle for Laura was terrifying as the nerves really kicked in. Everyone’s eyes were on me and just an tense silence waiting for her.
Laura: I didn’t look at Ryan because I didn’t want to cry. I locked eyes with my best friend and had to think about Dwight from The Office (thanks Gemma) I thought I was going to do a roly-poly down the aisle or make a fool of myself.
Why did you choose Chevin Country Park Hotel and Spa as your wedding venue?
We chose our wedding venue due to us loving the outdoors, it felt just right to get married at Otley Chevin Hotel. It felt out of the way of everyone, without being out of the way too much.
What was the most important wedding investments for you and why?
Our wedding photographer - made the day go as smooth as possible, and felt like a guest at the wedding, rather than a vendor.
Make-up artist – to help me feel confident.
Wedding dress – wanted to feel like a princess.
Band – to reflect our style and our music taste, make it feel like a gig.
Lets talk about the wedding dress
The dress is a Morilee A-Line with a long train. Initially I was looking for Boho style floaty dress with sleeves, and when the assistant came out with a dress and convinced me to try it, I fell in love instantly! I felt like a princess, and I didn’t realise I had a waist until she tried it on!
Often the aspect that makes a wedding unique is the detail, was there any theme or an aspect that was important to you both?
The only theme that we had in mind was fun! A good time for everyone, and making sure that the day felt perfect. The colour scheme was dusty blue, it wasn’t too alternative and fit our style, but we wanted to make sure that it really did feel right for us. The organisers at our wedding really brought our vision to life.
Was there anything you wish you’d known before the big day?
How quickly the day goes, and how bad the wedding blues would be after.
Are there any suppliers that deserve a special mention?
Gemma Suckley Photography, we picked her as we instantly got along on our first video call. We took a look at her portfolio and it was our style, nothing too serious with nice candid wedding photos which is what we were looking for. Also Diana Parum (MUA) deserves a extra mention.
Do you have any advice for couples planning a wedding?
Enjoy it! It might feel stressful while planning, but after the wedding, you’ll miss it all. Do not listen to anyone’s opinions on what you should have for your day. Go with what you feel is right and don’t let anyone tell you it’s a bad idea, unless it really is a bad idea (that the groom has probably come up with)
Was there moments or a part of the day that really sticks out for you?
The first dance, it was a song that meant a lot to us and it just fit perfectly. It’s by one of our favourite bands and everyone thought it was choreographed. Also Laura necking a bottle of wine in her sunglasses, in true Laura fashion (even though she doesn’t like wine)
Anything you’d like to add?
Massive shoutout to Gemma for being absolutely incredible.
If you're planning a wedding at the Country Park Hotel and looking for an Otley wedding photographer, feel free to get in touch about wedding photography requirements.