Candid Wedding Photography, Shrewsbury

Some weddings just hit a little differently, and Ash & Joey’s big day at Morris Hall in the middle of Shrewsbury did exactly that. It wasn’t just beautiful (though it totally was) it was completely them. Every single detail had a story, a meaning, or a little wink to their little nerdy personalities which is a bit of me.

Whimsical Decor with a Nerdy Twist

And can we talk about the decor? It was dreamy. Hiya Petal created stunning, whimsical greenery with pops of bright sunflowers, which made the whole space feel like something from Alice & Wonderland. But my favourite detail? Lego flowers that Ash had built and placed in there and the bunting that Joey had made, because both of them love being creative and are super into hobby life, like myself. Oh my god, and they created their own family crest! I mean need I say more? HOW COOL IS THAT!!!!! Plus being hand printers themselves, they were able to print tote bags with the crest on for all their guests to take home!

A Quiet, Lovely First Look

Before the chaos of the day kicked off, Ash and Joey did something I wish more couples would do, they had a private first look. Joey had spent the night before at a gorgeous little Airbnb nearby to Morris Hall and that’s where Ash joined her around 30 minutes before they were due to walk down the aisle. Just the two of them (and me of course, but keeping as far back I could in the tiniest front room known to man haha) They even swapped handwritten letters they’d written for each other. It was super sweet before the whirlwind of the wedding began.

Walking to the Ceremony Together

Instead of arriving separately, they strolled around the corner through Shrewsbury’s pretty streets hand in hand to Morris Hall. It felt like something out of a 90’s romcom, the two of them chatting away. Inside, they had a celebrant-led ceremony with Jordan Tunstall, who made it super personal. This wasn’t your standard “insert couple’s name here” kind of ceremony, it was filled with their story, in-jokes and everything that makes them the most perfect person for each other they even unvailed their new family crest before their first kiss, which was super special!

Board Games, Drinks and a Chilled Vibe

After the “I do’s” it was time for drinks but instead of just canapés and mingling, Ash and Joey leaned hard into one of their shared loves, which is gaming. Tables were full of board & card games for their guests to dive into. It was brilliant and really brought everyone together. People playing, laughing, getting competitive over Domino’s, Battleships and all the classic’s you can think of. Except Monopoly because it was about joining 2 families not breaking them haha. It forced everyone to get to know each other in the best ways. 

Vegan Poke Bowls that Everyone Loved

For food, Ash and Joey ditched the standard wedding menu and went for something they genuinely love vegan poke bowls by Kanu Poke, who have the cutest restaurant in Shrewsbury. Bright, colourful bowls piled high with fresh goodness. They went down an absolute storm people were raving about them all afternoon. It was fresh, fun and such a nice change from the usual heavy wedding meals. The canapés were so moreish too, there wasn’t a single one left by the end of the drinks reception, I can tell you that.

The Halcyon Band and a Full Circle Moment

When evening rolled around, the vibe shifted from chilled to full on party. They had booked The Halcyon Band, who are seriously good at getting people on the dance floor. But the coolest part? A couple of the band members had actually been Ash’s teachers back in college. Seeing them up there rocking out at their wedding felt like a sweet full-circle moment and it made the evening even more personal.

Why Their Day Worked So Well

What I loved about Ash and Joey’s wedding is how much it was so them. The private first look, the stroll through town, the personalised ceremony, the board games, the Lego flowers, the vegan food, the band with a personal connection. Let’s face it, none of it was generic. It all told a story about who they are, what they love and the life they’ve built together.

A Little Inspiration for Other Couples

If you’re planning your own wedding, take a leaf out of Ash and Joey’s book! Don’t be afraid to mix things up. Have a first look if you want one. Walk to your venue. Add the little touches that make you smile and bring you together before the wedding making them. Serve food you actually like & enjoy eating! It’s your day!!! The more it feels like you, the more fun you will have!