What happens when you combine a stunning venue like Almscliffe Valley, a tipi dripping with handmade pompoms, a pup named Sid as ring bearer, and guests waking up bleary-eyed from yurts? You get Michelle and PJ’s unforgettable wedding day! We were lucky enough to capture both photo and video of this incredible event in June 2024, and it’s safe to say it was one for the books. From golden-hour portraits to colourful smoke bombs and PJ getting a mouthful of confetti, it was a day packed with love, laughter, and disco vibes.
The vows were intimate, funny, and emotional, showcasing the deep connection Michelle and PJ share. But it was the confetti moment that had us in stitches. As the newlyweds walked back down the aisle, grinning ear to ear, PJ took a full-on mouthful of confetti. We laughed so hard we struggled to hold the camera steady. It was pure, unfiltered joy—and such a perfect reflection of their fun-loving personalities.
After the ceremony, guests grabbed drinks, played lawn games like cornhole toss, and enjoyed the beautiful June sunshine. The tipi—a gorgeous structure provided by Bar Events UK, who also kept everyone hydrated at the bar—was decorated with Michelle’s handmade pompoms. She even created a pompom curtain that served as a funky, colourful photo backdrop. Honestly, the level of effort and creativity she put into the decorations was next-level.
The catering, handled by Nomad Catering, was equally impressive. Instead of standard plated meals, they served stacks of buffet-style dishes on rustic wooden risers, making each table feel like a communal feast. Speaking of tables, Michelle and PJ didn’t go for boring names like "Table 1" or "Table 2." Instead, their guests dined at Funkytown, Daddy Cool, and Le Freak—a nod to their disco-loving souls.
"Not only did they photograph and video our day perfectly, they really captured who we are as people - including our dog Sid who was ring bearer and LOVED being papped!"
We arrived bright and early to the breathtaking Almscliffe Valley to find PJ, David, and the groomsmen arriving on site at 10:30—ready to get the party started (and lowkey hiding any pre-ceremony nerves). Meanwhile, Michelle and her bridesmaids were busy in their glam bubble, putting finishing touches on their wedding-day looks.
As we got set up, some of the guests began to emerge from their North Sky Yurts, rubbing sleep from their eyes, tucking in shirts, and pinning on lapel flowers. It was a hilarious sight, seeing people essentially roll out of bed and straight into wedding mode. The yurt village was such a cool touch—it added a festival vibe and made sure no one had to worry about getting home after the party!
At 12:30 sharp, it was time for the main event. Michelle and her bridesmaids walked down the aisle, looking stunning against the backdrop of the valley, where Connor Robinson—groomsman-turned-celebrant—officiated a heartfelt, personal ceremony.
Sid, who we first met as a tiny, fluffy puppy at Almscliffe Valley’s open day in 2023, stole hearts as the most adorable (and slightly mischievous) ring bearer. He’s grown so much since we first saw him, but his cuteness levels have only increased.
As dinner wrapped up, it was time for speeches—and oh, what a lineup it was. PJ’s dad was the unexpected star of the show, acting as both toastmaster and comedic MC. His ability to balance humour and heart had the entire tipi roaring with laughter one minute and tearing up the next. Each speaker brought something special, from Nicole’s touching maid of honour speech to PJ’s heartfelt words that tied it all together beautifully.
By the time the disco kicked off at 7:00 PM, the energy was electric. PJ absolutely owned the dancefloor from the moment the first Motown tune struck up. His incredible moves, the shapes he threw, and the rugs he cut will be forever burned into our retinas. And as if his dancing wasn’t enough, the disco lights glinting off his bright pink bumbag were the ultimate cherry on top. This was a dancefloor performance for the ages, and it set the tone for an unforgettable evening of celebration.
In between the celebrations, we snuck away with Michelle and PJ for some portrait photos. With the breathtaking valley as a backdrop, Michelle looked absolutely radiant in her dress, while PJ—with his dashing good looks, flowing locks, and signature handlebar moustache—was every bit the stylish groom.
Later, as the sun dipped toward the horizon, we convinced them to leave the dancefloor for one last golden-hour session. The light was dreamy, the setting was perfect, and the resulting photos are some of the most dramatic and beautiful we’ve ever taken.
Michelle and PJ’s wedding wasn’t just an event; it was an experience. From the handmade decorations to the laughter-filled speeches, every moment reflected their personalities and their love for each other (and for a good party!). We’re so grateful to have been part of this incredible day and can’t wait for them to relive every moment through their photos and film.
Here’s to a lifetime of disco, pompom magic, and mouthfuls of confetti. 🥂
Comments