An Unconventional Urban Wedding at The Tetley Art Gallery, Leeds
When it comes to a wedding that perfectly mirrors the beats of an urban landscape intertwined with heartfelt emotions, Georgie and Dom’s special day at The Tetley in Leeds was nothing short of remarkable. It's the kind of day that we, as alternative wedding photographers, live for; full of those genuine little touches that make a wedding truly represent the couple's spirit.
From St Aiden’s, Harehills…
Picture a bride and her squad prepping in an AirBnB, laughter, croissants, fruit, and champagne bubbles — this was the start of Georgie and Dom's nuptials. Buttonholes and ties weren't just accessories; watching Georgie's dad help the brides-man with his tie was a moment charged with family warmth, an insight into bonds that tighten on days like these.
The iconic image of Georgie standing at the foot of the aisle at the historic, brick-built St Aiden's Church in Harehills is still fresh in my mind. Georgie's entrance was a pause-in-time moment as Dom waited with closed eyes, savouring the anticipation. It was a breath-stealer and a shutter-click that captured more than a picture; it was a true moment of soul-deep love and I could not be happier with capturing it.
After a heartfelt ceremony led by Dom's step-mother, it was time to throw confetti and wow, that did not disappoint! The streets of Leeds were covered in the vibrant pink and white as their family and friends cheered on the newlyweds, delivering perfectly on my directions and producing a cloud of confetti, the likes I have only occasionally seen. Honestly, somewhere in that photo was a couple, and in that moment, it could not have been more perfect.
As guests made their way to the city centre, we popped back inside for the informal family photos. Now most wedding photographers insist on taking formals - that's true. But as a relaxed, alternative photographer for unconventional couples like Georgie and Dom, I like to do something a bit more fun and make sure my clients, their family and friends are at ease and enjoying the 'posing' part of the day. And oh boy, did we have fun! We laughed, joked around, and captured some genuine moments of love between the newlyweds, all beneath the gorgeous mosaic wall of St Aiden's.
…to The Tetley
Leeds' own Tetley Art Gallery (now unfortunately closed) portrayed an extraordinary backdrop for an urban wedding delight. After the vows, my camera and I trailed the couple through the calming whispers of the Leeds & Liverpool canal waterfront, cheered on by the pub-goers at the Adelphi, we popped down a cobbled street for a handful of portraits, and I let Dom and Georgie be themselves, engrossed in their bubble of joy, away from the world's hustle.
The reception was a blast, with heartfelt speeches bringing tears and laughter, and some absolutely delicious food. The evening, for me at least, was wrapped up with the funky tunes of a New York Brass Band, who got the crowd going with their lively performance.
I was about to pack up my gear and took a moment outside when I spotted The Tetley's bright neon lights. I couldn't resist taking one (or ten) last photo of the happy newlyweds with this stunning backdrop, capturing their authentic and alternative love in a beautiful way. That's what it's all about for me - capturing real moments of love and happiness in unique and creative ways. It was truly an unforgettable wedding, and I am so grateful to have been a part of Georgie and Dom's big day.
An Alternative Wedding in Leeds to Remember
As an alternative wedding photographer in Leeds, these urban stories are what I dream of capturing. Georgie and Dom’s day exemplified not just urban wedding vibes but the essence of personal, unconventional beauty. Moments like these are fleeting, but the memories, oh they're as lasting as the historic bricks of The Tetley.
If you're seeking someone to chronicle your day—your laughs, your cityscape, your unposed joy—I’d love to be there. Drop me a message, and let's paint (or photo at least) your wedding story in the colours of Leeds' own vibrant palette.
For the lovers who blaze their own trails and the hearts that beat to the drum of Leeds’ city lights—this is for you—your story, your wedding, your way.
