ARIEL & MATT

On the 21st of June, 2025, I had the pleasure of photographing Ariel and Matt’s beautiful summer wedding at Pembroke Lodge, set in the heart of Richmond Park, London. A celebration filled with elegance, heartfelt emotion, and joy, their wedding day was the perfect example of how timeless style and relaxed fun can go hand in hand.

From bridal preparations at Richmond Hill Hotel to the lively dance floor at The Belvedere, every part of the day reflected Ariel and Matt’s relaxed yet refined approach to their celebration.

Bridal Prep at Richmond Hill Hotel

The morning began at the stylish Richmond Hill Hotel, just a short drive from the venue. Ariel got ready in one of the most beautiful suites, with soft natural light flooding in — ideal for those timeless bridal portraits. Accompanied by her two bridesmaids and her mum, the atmosphere was calm, elegant and full of anticipation.

Ariel wore a classic bridal look, complemented by a palette of soft whites and delicate florals. The room was full of quiet excitement as the final touches were made before she stepped into a traditional London cab, making her way through Richmond Park to Pembroke Lodge.

The Ceremony in The Belvedere, Pembroke Lodge

Their ceremony took place in The Belvedere, Pembroke Lodge’s light-filled, purpose-built space for weddings. With views across the landscaped gardens and the city skyline beyond, it’s one of the most breathtaking places to say ‘I do’ in South West London.

The space was styled with a white and green floral theme — think roses, gypsophila, and lush greenery lining the aisle. Simple gypsophila arrangements were tied to the end of each chair, creating an effortlessly romantic look. Matt wore a single white rose buttonhole, staying in theme with the couple’s classic aesthetic.

The ceremony itself lasted around 25 minutes and was full of genuine emotion. With a mix of laughter, a few tears, and excited smiles, Ariel and Matt were surrounded by family and friends all seated comfortably in the bright and airy room.

Confetti, Group Shots & Garden Games

After being officially pronounced husband and wife, the newlyweds exited to a shower of confetti from their guests. Everyone then gathered at the front of the Lodge for the all-important group photo before a few spots of rain nudged us around to the back terrace for group portraits and candid moments.

Despite the weather, the atmosphere was buzzing. Guests enjoyed garden games including Giant Jenga and Giant Connect 4, while the drinks flowed and laughter echoed across the gardens.

The Wedding Breakfast & Speeches

As the afternoon rolled into evening, guests were welcomed into the Belvedere for the wedding breakfast. The speeches were a standout moment of the day — full of personality, emotion, and hilarity. The Mother of the Bride, Best Men, and Matt himself delivered heartfelt and humorous tributes that had the entire room in stitches one minute and misty-eyed the next.

The tables were elegantly decorated to match the rest of the styling, with subtle whites and fresh greenery tying everything together beautifully.

Evening Celebrations with Big Teaser

Once the formalities had wrapped up, it was time to hit the bar — and the couple’s friends didn’t hold back! There was a round (or several) of celebratory shots before the evening entertainment kicked off.

The dance floor came alive thanks to Big Teaser, a live band who kept the energy up all night long. With everything from indie classics to party anthems, the floor was never empty, and the celebrations carried on well into the night.

We managed to slip away briefly with Ariel and Matt for a few golden hour portraits in the gardens overlooking London — not many, due to the weather, but just enough to capture that warm evening light and those newlywed smiles.

Thinking of Getting Married at Pembroke Lodge?

If you’re planning a wedding at Pembroke Lodge in Richmond Park, I can’t recommend it enough. With its sweeping views, elegant interiors, and incredible service, it’s one of London’s most charming and romantic venues. I’ve photographed many weddings over the years and at Pembroke Lodge each one has its own magic — but the timeless beauty of the setting always shines through.

Whether you’re having a classic indoor ceremony in the Belvedere, a relaxed garden celebration, or a sophisticated evening reception, Pembroke Lodge is one of the best wedding venues in South West London.

Wedding Suppliers

Venue: Pembroke Lodge, Richmond Park
Bridal Prep Location: Richmond Hill Hotel
Band: Big Teaser
Florals: The Fine Flowers Company 
Dress: FairyTale London
Hair & Makeup: Victoria Fraser-Gadd
Photography: Jon – View My Portfolio

If you’re recently engaged and looking for a photographer for your Pembroke Lodge wedding or anywhere across London, Surrey or the Home Counties, I’d love to hear more about your plans. I specialise in elegant weddings for professionals who value storytelling, connection, and timeless imagery.

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