Happy Valley Woodland Wedding

Rehearsal Dinner at Happy Valley, Norfolk

Emmanuelle & Ben | June 14th 2025

Emmanuelle and Ben booked me to photograph both their rehearsal dinner the night before their wedding, and their wedding day at Happy Valley, Norfolk. With family and friends travelling from the London and the USA, it was the perfect long weekend in Norfolk.

The rehearsal dinner included a relaxed hog roast around the fire pits in the Cattle Yard Courtyard. It gave everyone a chance to settle in before the big day. The evening was filled with warm embraces from family members who hadn’t seen each other in a while and it was an absolute joy to photograph.

Woodland Wedding at Happy Valley

I was back the following morning to capture my first wedding day at Happy Valley. It’s a venue I’d wanted to work at for quite some time, mainly because of its beautiful woodland setting. I instantly fell in love with the lake set amongst the trees and the quirky log cabins.

The bridal party got ready in Toad Hall, while the groomsmen prepared in Keepers Cabin. Throughout the morning, there were many wholesome moments, including gift giving before the ceremony. Happy Valley offers several ceremony locations, and Emmanuelle and Ben chose the forest. Not only did it provide plenty of shade, but it also looked incredibly magical. Decorated with soft pastel flowers and a stunning archway, the ceremony was very emotional, with barely a dry eye among their guests. Afterwards, everyone followed the newlyweds through the trees to the lake for confetti.

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony at Happy Valley

Group photographs took place by the lake on the shaded grass. These ranged from fun and relaxed shots to more heartfelt moments, especially with elderly family members, which made them even more meaningful.

Meanwhile, garden games and Ceilidh dancing filled a sunny afternoon on the lawn. By the time the wedding breakfast was served, it was very well earned! Colourful florals and wicker chairs adorned The Great Barn, setting the scene beautifully. Long tables were dressed with intricate tablecloths, ready for the banquet. The speeches that followed were fantastic and had everyone laughing.

Glamping Wedding Weekend in Norfolk

Thanks to the beautiful summer weather, guests were able to roam freely between indoor and outdoor spaces. During this time, Emmanuelle changed into her evening dress. The couple enjoyed two cake cuts – one traditional sponge and one cheese cake – before heading into their first dance. From there, the evening flowed into hours of fun, laughter, and dancing.

Golden Hour Couple Photos | Norfolk Wedding Photographer

As golden hour approached, I took Emmanuelle and Ben for a relaxed stroll through the woods near Toad Hall for some couple portraits. They had also requested photos in the wild flower field opposite, and we timed it perfectly as the sun set behind the trees.

Colourful Norfolk Wedding Photographer

When we returned, a delicious-looking food platter by The Banqueting Hire was waiting. Once darkness fell, the night ended perfectly with sparklers under the stars.