I have photographed over 300 weddings now, but Bella and Dan’s wedding was something else. This couple absolutely threw out the rule book and spent the day doing exactly what they love. Because they adore all things vintage and performing arts, they chose a theatre as their wedding venue. It didn’t disappoint!
Bella and Dan both got ready at the iconic Riley Smith Hall in Tadcaster. This building is a local treasure; built in 1924 by the Riley-Smith family (of the John Smith’s brewery fame), it serves as a stunning example of Art Deco architecture. With its grand stage, original ballroom floor, and old-fashioned charm, this was the perfect venue for this vintage-style wedding. I will never forget having the opportunity to photograph a wedding at Riley-Smith Hall.
Getting Ready
Bella got ready in the theatre dressing rooms beneath the stage. Walking through this part of the theatre felt so cool! The rooms look like something from an old film, complete with wood panels and long mirrors. I loved playing with unique angles in there while Bella did her own makeup. She wore a stunning vintage dress, slip, and veil from the famous Portobello Road market. They suited her perfectly!
A Joyful Ceremony in the Crystal Ballroom
Soon, it was time to head upstairs for the ceremony in the Supper Room. The couple chose a celebrant-led service, which felt so personal and wonderful. Huge, vibrant flower decorations framed the space, and the ceremony prompted plenty of tears and laughter from everyone in the room.
After the “I dos,” we headed outside for confetti and Bella’s “dream” group photograph. Bella loves the style of old, vintage photos where every guest appears in front of the venue. This was the only one they requested! It captured the scale of the theatre and the energy of the day perfectly.
Music Quizzes and 3D Photobooths
Back inside, guests enjoyed drinks and a brilliant “3D photobooth” that the couple made themselves. I took Bella and Dan into the balcony for some portraits which was really fun.
The speeches followed, and I loved how every member of their immediate families gave a small contribution. This included Bella’s younger siblings.
Then, things got competitive! A string quartet led an epic music quiz that had the guests scrambling for answers. After the quiz, Bella, Dan, and I wandered into Tadcaster for some portraits. It was a lovely, quiet moment, and many locals stopped to offer their congratulations.
A Cockney Singalong to Remember
When we returned, the real party started with a performance by Tom Carradine’s Cockney Sing-a-long. This was absolutely hilarious! Tom is a legend on the vintage circuit, and he had the entire room joining in with classic music hall songs. This was such a laugh!
The night finished with a packed dancefloor and plenty of noodles to keep everyone going. Bella and Dan, thank you for letting me document such a creative, unique, and fun-filled day. I enjoyed every second! I absolutely loved capturing your Riley-Smith Hall Wedding Photography.
