Upton Barn & Walled Garden Wedding Photography - Jessie & Jay

There’s something about closing out the wedding season that always hits a little different, and Jessie & Jay’s day was the perfect final chapter for 2025. From the minute I stepped onto the grounds at Upton Barn, I could feel the buzz, a mix of excitement, nerves, and that early winter sunshine that feels like a bonus when you’re shooting in late December.

Upton Barn & Walled Garden is a beauty of a venue, think exposed beams, warm brick walls, and gorgeous natural light pouring into every corner. Jessie & Jay had the place looking absolutely spot on. Everything from the styling to the schedule flowed so effortlessly, and it was one of those days where you can just tell everyone’s genuinely chuffed to be there.

Laid-Back From the Start

Jessie looked incredible, her dress from Rookery Bridal was a total stunner, and the whole morning had such a lovely sense of calm. No stress, just a bridal party having a good laugh and soaking it all in. Jay and the lads brought the style too, classic black suits, easy banter, and a few pre-ceremony nerves that quickly disappeared once everything kicked off.

Ceremony With A View

The ceremony itself took place in Upton’s Cider Barn, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and timber beams setting the tone beautifully. Jessie’s walk down the aisle was full of emotion, and watching the two of them lock eyes was one of those moments you just don’t forget. It all felt really personal, nothing too formal, just heartfelt vows and happy tears all round.

Quiet Portraits and a Breather Together

After the confetti had settled, I stole Jessie and Jay away for a few quiet portraits, just the two of them with a bit of space to breathe it all in. Fair play to Jessie for braving the cold… you really wouldn’t know it from the photos, but it definitely wasn’t warm. The barn, the gardens and those late afternoon tones gave us some really beautiful backdrops, and they just slipped into it so naturally together.

A Crowd That Made It Even Better

Before the party properly kicked off, there was this lovely in-between time where everyone was just enjoying being together. Between shots, there were drinks in hand, hugs from guests, and that easy newlywed energy that fills a room when people are genuinely happy to be there. It felt relaxed, full of laughter, and completely unforced, exactly the kind of atmosphere you hope for on a wedding day.

Big Speeches, Surprise Magic & One Wild Dance Floor

The evening ramped up fast, and in the best way. The speeches hit all the right notes (with a few solid roasts in there too), and then magician Graham Prigg had people absolutely baffled and belly-laughing in equal measure. From there, Levi & the Bean took over and the dance floor just exploded. I'm talking full dance circles, impromptu singalongs, and the kind of energy that you don’t get every weekend. It was a wild one, in the best way possible.

A Full-Circle Finish to the Season

What made the day even more special for me was seeing familiar faces, a couple from the first wedding I shot this year, and another I’ll be photographing in the next. It’s that full-circle feeling that reminds me just how lucky I am to do this job. Big thanks to Jessie & Jay for not only throwing a brilliant celebration, but also for being part of that journey.

Jessie & Jay, thank you both for ending the year on such a high. From the sunshine to the speeches, the magic tricks to the madness on the dance floor, it was everything a wedding should be. Wishing you the happiest first Christmas as newlyweds!

Suppliers

Venue: Upton Barn and Walled Garden

Photographer: Just James Weddings

Dress Boutique: Rookery Bridal

Cake Maker: Abibakessomecakes

Hair Stylist: Rozzhairdesignz

Make Up Artist: Roxie Makeup

Entertainment: Graham Prigg Magic

Live Music: Levi and The Bean

Videographer: Marcus Slade Films

Second Photographer: Matthew S Higgs Photography

Planning your own laid-back, joy-filled wedding day?

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed celebration with great people, gorgeous details and a bit of chaos on the dance floor, I’d love to help you capture every part of it.