An Intimate Autumn Wedding at Cwrt Bleddyn
Cwrt Bleddyn Hotel & Spa
There’s something truly magical about small weddings, and Grace and James’s day at Cwrt Bleddyn Hotel & Spa captured that magic in every possible way. With just 25 of their closest family and friends, their celebration was intimate, heartfelt, and full of the kind of moments that make wedding photography so rewarding to capture.
A Venue Steeped in History
Cwrtt Bleddyn Hotel & Spa is one of those rare venues where history and romance collide. Set in the heart of Monmouthshire, the building carries centuries of Welsh history within its walls. With its timeless architecture, sweeping grounds, and elegant interiors, it offered the perfect backdrop for Grace and James’s day. There’s a certain charm about the place — grand enough to feel special, yet cosy enough to create the intimate atmosphere they wanted.
A Ceremony of Love and Connection
The ceremony itself was small, but the emotions filled the entire room. With only 25 guests, every face was familiar, every voice known, and every hug cherished. The absence of a large crowd gave the whole moment a quiet depth. It was all about Grace and James, and the people who mean the most to them.
As they exchanged their vows, there was a stillness that felt almost sacred. The kind of quiet where you can hear every word, feel every emotion, and notice the little things — like the way their hands never let go of each other, or the proud glances from parents and siblings. Capturing those moments through my lens reminded me of why I love intimate weddings: nothing gets lost, nothing gets overlooked.
Autumnal Styling
Styling the Day in Autumn Tones
Grace and James chose to embrace the season with a colour palette that reflected the richness of autumn. Burnt oranges, deep greens, and soft earthy tones ran throughout the day, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The bridesmaids’ dresses in rich green were a beautiful contrast to the golden-orange details in the flowers and décor. Together, these colours worked in harmony, bringing the beauty of the season indoors and adding to the sense of warmth that surrounded the day.
Even the light seemed to play its part. The soft autumn sun filtered through the windows, highlighting the rich tones of the décor and catching the little details — a flicker of a candle, the shine of polished glassware, the glow of Grace’s smile as she looked at James.
Candid Moments and Quiet Joy
For me as a photographer, the beauty of a wedding like this lies in the candid moments. With fewer people, it was easier to move quietly around the room, capturing the unguarded laughter, the stolen glances, and the affectionate hugs.
A Celebration of Togetherness
The reception carried the same intimate energy as the ceremony. Guests gathered closely, sharing food, drinks, and stories. The smaller guest list meant everyone had time to truly connect — it felt less like a formal event and more like a family gathering, full of warmth and belonging.
The autumn styling carried through into the tablescapes, with greenery and touches of orange adding texture and depth. Against the historic backdrop of Cwrt Bleddyn, it all felt natural and timeless.
As the evening drew in, there was no sense of rushing or formality. Instead, there was laughter, clinking glasses, and the soft hum of conversation. It was a day built on love and togetherness, rather than spectacle — and that made it unforgettable.
Why Intimate Weddings Are So Special
Grace and James’s wedding was a beautiful reminder that there’s no one way to celebrate love. While some couples dream of big, bustling celebrations, others — like Grace and James — choose intimacy.
What makes small weddings so powerful is the focus on connection. With fewer people, every guest has a role to play, every moment feels magnified, and the couple has the space to truly be present. From a photographer’s perspective, these weddings are a joy to capture. The pace is gentler, the atmosphere warmer, and the opportunities to document real, meaningful emotion are endless.
Final Thoughts
Grace and James’s wedding at Cwrt Bleddyn Hotel & Spa was the perfect reflection of who they are: warm, thoughtful, and deeply connected to their loved ones. With autumn tones setting the mood and the intimacy of just 25 guests, their day proved that small celebrations can be every bit as meaningful — and often even more memorable — than large ones.
It was an honour to photograph such a heartfelt celebration in such a historic setting. Their story will always stay with me, a reminder that the simplest weddings often hold the deepest beauty.