Registry Office Wedding photography South Wales - Hereford Registry Office Wedding Photography - Sarah & Paul
- Sarah Haile
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
Every wedding is special, but Sarah and Mike’s day was particularly close to my heart, as it took place at the Hereford registry office where I myself got married ten years ago. Being back in that space, witnessing a new couple say their vows, felt like coming full circle and reminded me why small, intimate weddings are so meaningful.


Sarah and Mike chose a relaxed, informal wedding with just their nearest family and friends. The ceremony was filled with love, support, and a few happy tears from guests, which made standing at the front with them an absolute joy. I loved watching the deep connection they share, while noticing the warm, grinning faces of everyone present, clearly basking in the couple’s happiness. The ceremony itself was simple yet beautiful, with a few heartfelt readings from their loved ones, adding a personal touch that made the moment feel entirely theirs.



After the vows, the atmosphere was filled with laughter, hugs, and congratulations as guests mingled. Sarah and Mike had asked me for ideas on where to capture some portraits, so we led everyone through the streets of Hereford and into the grounds of the cathedral. This gave us the perfect backdrop for group shots, candid moments, and those quiet, joyful interactions between the couple and their friends and family. One of my favourite parts was photographing Sarah with her veil flowing dramatically in the wind—her sister gave us a helping hand for extra effect, and the images are simply stunning.



Once the group shots were done, Sarah and Mike said goodbye to their guests as they headed off to their celebration meal. We sneaked away for a few quiet portraits of just the two of them in a private spot within the cathedral. These intimate moments were some of my favourite images from the day, and Sarah laughed when she saw them, saying, “I never thought we could look so vogue!” It’s these calm, personal moments that often become the most treasured memories for couples.


Before we parted ways, the newlyweds invited me to share a slice of cake with them in the cathedral café. It was such a lovely pause in the whirlwind of their day, a moment to sit together, enjoy the calm, and reflect on the start of their new chapter. After hugs and smiles, I sent them off to celebrate with their loved ones, feeling so grateful to have witnessed and captured these memories.


Working with couples like Sarah and Mike reminds me why I love Hereford registry office wedding photography. It’s not about grand spaces or elaborate details, but about the connection, emotion, and joy that make each day unique. Being part of these intimate celebrations is a privilege, and capturing moments that the couple will treasure forever is what makes this work so rewarding.
Sarah and Mike had also invited me to help celebrate their love in a private religious ceremony by the river in Crickhowell before the wedding. I will be sharing another blog post about that special part of their journey, so you can read more about it [here].
If you would like to discuss your own small wedding please get in touch with me here.

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