Chilston Park Wedding Videographer
James & Penny booked us to film their wedding video at Chilston Park Hotel, Kent in July 2023. We first filmed at the country house hotel over 10 years ago and the venue has held it’s current style and charm throughout. The hotel is a historic country house set in 22 acres of parkland. It’s beautiful gardens, picturesque lake, and elegant architecture provide a stunning backdrop for weddings and events. One big plus is that the hotel offers exclusive use packages, allowing couples and their guests to have the entire venue to themselves for the duration of their wedding celebrations. This creates an intimate and private atmosphere for the wedding party. We also love the fact that the ceremony and reception is all at one venue, it eliminates any wasted traveling time and stress.
Visions & Ideas
The couple booked Matt Tyler as their photographer on the day. We have worked alongside Matt on many occasions as he has been in the industry as long as us!
James & Penny both got ready at the venue in the morning. James arrived with their two daughters who were really excited for the wedding celebrations.
One of the most touching highlights of the day was when Penny’s father saw her walk down the gradn staircase in her wedding dress for the first time. The moment was filled with the biggest smile, love, pride, and just the right amount of happy tears. His reaction was one of pure emotion, a mix of awe and joy as he took in the sight of his daughter in her stunning gown. It was a moment that left everyone in the room feeling the weight of just how special this day was, not only for Penny and James but for their entire family.
The bridal party walked down the aisle and their daughters really stole the show!
A Romantic Wedding at a Historic Country Hotel: A Day to Remember
On a beautiful, sunlit day, Penny and James said their “I do’s” in the most enchanting outdoor ceremony. The couple chose the hotel’s charming gazebo, nestled within the hotel’s lush gardens, as the focal point for their vows. The soft sound of leaves rustling in the breeze, mixed with the gentle hum of guests’ excitement, created an atmosphere of serene joy. A special friend sang and played the guitar. It was personalised with a beautiful reading from Penny’s brother.
The wedding reception was enjoyed with live music, drinks and canapes on the lawn. Photos followed then guests were invited into the wedding breakfast room.
The couple chose to have the wedding speeches before dinner to avoid any stress for the speakers before eating their meal!
A Family Affair: Two Little Flower Girls
The couple’s two young daughters played a special role in the day, acting as the most precious flower girls. Dressed in adorable matching dresses, they were the stars of the show, capturing the hearts of everyone with their excitement and smiles. Not only did they sprinkle petals down the aisle, but they also reveled in all the attention and loved helping their mother with her stunning gown. Whether it was adjusting the train of Penny’s princess-like dress or posing for photos, they were happily involved in every moment.
Their presence added a delightful sense of family warmth to the day, highlighting how Penny and James’ celebration wasn’t just about two people coming together—it was about the union of their entire family.
A picturesque lake, shimmering under the afternoon sun, served as a peaceful retreat for guests. The nearby fountain, located at the entrance of the long, sweeping driveway, added an air of grandeur to the already majestic setting. As the water danced, the couple posed for breathtaking photos, capturing not only their love but also the sheer beauty of the surroundings.
A Celebration of Love
As the ceremony gave way to the evening reception, the grandeur of the historic hotel provided the perfect setting for celebrating Penny and James’ love story. Inside the ballroom, guests were treated to an elegant dinner, surrounded by antique chandeliers and the rich history of the venue.
After dinner, Matt and I took the couple outside for some couple shots. They were totally natural together, we just asked them to practise their first dance for us and it all just flowed!
The Cake: A Sweet Delight
As if the day wasn’t sweet enough, the couple’s choice of cake added to the charm. Penny and James opted for a rustic naked cake, beautifully decorated with fresh berries and layered with jam and buttercream. The simplicity of the cake allowed its flavours to shine, offering guests a delicious treat that perfectly matched the natural, elegant feel of the wedding. The cake’s exposed layers, decorated causally with berries, mirrored the balance of sophistication and casual charm that defined their special day.
Fun and Games: Indoor Mini Golf
For the evening reception, Penny and James gave their guests an unexpected and entertaining surprise: indoor mini golf! It was a hit among guests of all ages, providing a relaxed and playful atmosphere to the otherwise elegant evening. The hotel’s grand interior was transformed into a space where laughter echoed through the halls, as everyone—from the youngest children to the oldest family members—took turns showing off their putting skills. This unique touch was a reflection of Penny and James’ fun-loving personalities, ensuring the celebration was as enjoyable as it was beautiful.
From the outdoor ceremony beneath a flower-adorned gazebo to the touching moment when Penny’s father saw her in her wedding dress for the first time, this wedding was filled with unforgettable moments.
For more Chilston Park Weddings check out our blog.
Click on the film below to watch James & Penny’s wedding video highlights
Chilston Park Wedding – Chilston Park History – Chilston Park Hotel
