When I say this wedding had personality, I mean it. Paul & Alicia’s day at The Grousemoor was everything I love about relaxed, outdoorsy couple’s weddings – full of laughter, muddy mountain bikes, incredible views, and a couple who genuinely did things their own way.
As a Grousemoor wedding photographer, I’m always excited to shoot at this stunning North Wales venue. It’s tucked away in the hills near Llandegla and has the kind of warm, rustic vibe that makes everyone feel right at home – plus, the scenery is unreal. But throw in a morning mountain bike ride, a laid-back celebration, and some of the friendliest guests ever? That’s the dream.
Pre-Wedding Pedals & Morning Prep
Most couples start their wedding day with breakfast and bubbly. Paul kicked his off by tearing around the local trail centre on his mountain bike with his best mates – Jonathan and Kelvin. I was there, camera in hand, capturing the mud-splattered smiles and adrenaline-fuelled energy. It was the perfect way to begin a wedding that was all about the outdoors and embracing what you love.
Back at The Grousemoor, Alicia was getting ready with her brilliant team – Creative Hair by Gemma Heath and makeup artist Mia Gillanders. The bridal suite was full of calm, laughter, and the odd peek out the window at the gorgeous Welsh views. Alicia looked incredible in her dress from Tiffany Bridal at The Bridal House Leeds – classic, with just the right touch of elegance for a countryside celebration.
The Ceremony – Laid Back and Full of Love
The ceremony took place on-site at The Grousemoor – no transport, no stress, just everyone coming together in one beautifully styled space. The Grousemoor’s team know how to make a space feel special, and the ceremony room was filled with soft light, wild floral touches from Wild Floral Design, and a genuine buzz of excitement.
Paul and Alicia exchanged vows surrounded by family, friends, and bubbles (literally – guests threw confetti and blew bubbles after the ceremony, which made for some lush photos). Their daughter Edie played a huge part in the day too – from bridal prep to portraits, her beaming smile was everywhere.
A Quick Shout to the Setting
The Grousemoor’s charm is in the mix of cosy country interiors and wild surroundings. One minute you’re sipping prosecco by the fire, the next you’re outside in the hills for portraits. It’s one of those venues that’s stunning year-round, but especially good when the weather holds – which it did!
We made the most of the scenery for some relaxed couple portraits. No awkward posing – just Paul and Alicia walking through the fields, soaking it all in.
Group Shots, Garden Games & Grazing Tables
Paul & Alicia were spot on with their group shots – a simple list, some great helpers (big thanks to Jonathan and Kelvin), and a relaxed approach that kept everything moving. Once the formalities were done, it was time to relax.
The courtyard came alive with guests enjoying drinks, garden games (courtesy of Toby and Co Events), and grazing tables. The acoustic set from the band Late Last Night was the perfect backdrop – just chilled enough to let people mingle, but enough energy to keep the good vibes going.
There was ice cream from Two Scoops, pizza from The Pizza Yard, and even cake handmade by Alicia’s mum Janet. Honestly, the whole setup felt like a garden party with a touch of mountain biker spirit – relaxed, fun, and totally theirs.
Speeches with a View
Speeches were held in the afternoon, and they were full of heart. Paul kicked things off with a few words of thanks, followed by the best man and both dads. There was laughter, a bit of light roasting, and some genuinely moving moments – There was laughter, a bit of roasting, and some genuinely moving moments – the kind of speeches that bring everyone a little closer together.
First Dance & Evening Feels
As golden hour hit, the band kicked off their evening set. First dance came just before cake cutting – no fuss, no big spotlight moment, just Paul and Alicia having a little sway surrounded by their people. The best kind of moment.
And then? The dance floor was full, the pizzas were flying out, and The Grousemoor once again proved why it’s such a great choice for couples who want a full day without the faff.
A Wedding That Really Reflected Them
What stood out most about Paul & Alicia’s wedding was how them it was. Every part of the day had a little nod to their love of the outdoors, their family, and their no-nonsense approach to life. From bikes to bubbles, grazing boards to pizza slices, it was an honest celebration of everything they care about.
If you’re planning a Grousemoor wedding and want someone who’ll let you do your thing while capturing every little laugh, muddy shoe, and emotional moment – that’s exactly my kind of wedding. You don’t need perfect weather or a tight schedule. You just need to be yourselves, and I’ll handle the rest.
Looking for a photographer for your wedding at The Grousemoor? Get in touch here.
The Supporting Cast – Wedding at The Grousemoor – Suppliers
Venue: The Grousemoor Country House
Hair: Creative Hair by Gemma Heath
Makeup: Mia Gillanders
Dress: Tiffany Bridal at The Bridal House Leeds
Suits: Whitfield & Ward, Wilmslow
Florist: Wild Floral Design, Chester
Cake: Janet (Bride’s Mum)
Band: Late Last Night
Decor & Garden Games: Toby and Co Events
Ice Cream: Two Scoops Ice Cream
Catering: The Pizza Yard