Rae & Ash’s Runa Farm Wedding - A Celebration of Love, Pride & Pizza
As Rae and Ash celebrate their first wedding anniversary, it feels like the perfect time to look back on their incredible day at Runa Farm. Their wedding was a true reflection of love, joy, and individuality, and I was honoured to capture it.
As a Newcastle LGBTQIA+ wedding photographer, I love telling unique love stories in stunning venues across the North East. Whether it’s a same-sex wedding, a non-traditional ceremony, or a celebration filled with personal touches, I specialise in authentic and inclusive wedding photography. Rae and Ash’s wedding at Runa Farm in County Durham was a perfect blend of romance, personality, and joy. With the sun shining brightly, their day was filled with love, meaningful details, and an unforgettable drag show to top it all off. As a rustic wedding venue, Runa Farm provided the perfect setting for their stylish yet relaxed celebration.
Getting Ready, The First Look, and a Prideful Monochrome Party
The day began with Rae and Ash getting ready separately, surrounded by their closest friends and family. There was an air of excitement as @rosierobertsbeauty worked her magic, creating their stunning wedding looks. Their first look, as they met on the grand staircase, was an emotional and beautiful moment to capture.
They looked effortlessly stylish in their white dresses from @wed2b and @i_do_wedding_specialists_, glowing with happiness. For their couples' photoshoot, they added a playful touch - pink sunglasses, trainers, and matching pink hair styled by @lishmansbarbers and @molnich97 - posing in front of hay bales and a gorgeous pink flower arch. It was a perfect reflection of their fun and unique personalities.
The Perfect Venue: Runa Farm - Rustic Charm with a Stylish Twist
Tucked away near Barnard Castle in County Durham, Runa Farm is the perfect mix of laid-back vibes and stylish details. It’s the kind of place that feels effortlessly cool yet still has that special, intimate feel for a wedding. It offers a unique setting for couples seeking a celebration as individual as their love story.
The venue has a gorgeous wedding chapel that feels both romantic and down-to-earth, with its soft, draped ceiling and polished stone floors adding to the charm. There’s a mix of rustic farming heritage and relaxed Spanish influences, giving it an earthy yet elegant atmosphere that makes every corner feel special. Surrounded by rolling countryside, it’s the kind of setting that makes you want to slow down and soak it all in.
For couples searching for a rustic wedding venue in County Durham, @runafarm_ offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and stylish elegance. You can find out more about this stunning venue at Runa Farm's website.
The Ceremony – A Heartfelt Moment
The ceremony itself was filled with raw emotion, happy tears, and heartfelt vows. The stunning chapel at Runa Farm, created an intimate and romantic atmosphere. As Rae and Ash exchanged their vows, their love for each other was undeniable. It was a moment of pure joy, shared with their closest family and friends.
Drinks Reception on the Outdoor Terrace
After the ceremony, guests moved to the outdoor terrace to enjoy cocktails and drinks under the sun. With fire pits glowing, the space felt cosy and inviting - the perfect setting to relax and celebrate. The warm weather added to the laid-back, joyful atmosphere, making for beautiful candid moments as everyone toasted the newlyweds.
Family Photos - Capturing Love in the Sunshine
The family photos were a truly special part of the day. Taken outside in the sun, the stunning architecture of Runa Farm provided a breathtaking backdrop. These photos captured the deep love and support surrounding Rae and Ash, with genuine laughter and joy in every frame. The warm natural light added to the relaxed, heartfelt atmosphere, making for images that perfectly reflected the happiness of the day. Their bridal party embraced a unique concept - monochrome outfits that, together, symbolised the full spectrum of the Pride flag. This thoughtful touch was a beautiful tribute to their love and the LGBTQIA+ community they are proud to be part of.
Dinner, Speeches & A First Dance Filled with Love
As the sun began to set, guests enjoyed freshly made pizza while soaking in the relaxed, joyful energy. The speeches were deeply emotional, with family and friends sharing stories of love and support. It was a touching reminder of the strength and beauty of their journey together.
Following the meal and speeches, Rae and Ash took to the dance floor for their first dance as a married couple. The love in the room was undeniable as friends and family joined them, wrapping them in warmth and celebration. The atmosphere was full of joy, laughter, and heartfelt connections - exactly the kind of candid, meaningful moments I love to document.
A Show-stopping Drag Performance
In true Newcastle style, Rae and Ash took their wedding celebrations to the next level with an incredible drag show featuring some of the city’s best performers. The energy was electric, the performances dazzling, and the love in the room truly palpable. It was a night of laughter, celebration, and unforgettable moments captured beautifully in every frame.
The Importance of LGBTQIA+ Representation in Weddings
Weddings are a powerful celebration of love and identity. For LGBTQIA+ couples, they carry even deeper meaning. Having a photographer who understands their journey is essential in creating a safe, affirming space where they can be their true selves.
If you’re searching for an inclusive wedding photographer in Newcastle who specialises in LGBTQIA+ weddings and alternative wedding photography, I am passionate about capturing authentic love stories with a deep understanding of the LGBTQIA+ community. My goal is to create a relaxed and affirming space where couples feel at ease, allowing their personalities and connection to shine naturally. Every wedding deserves to be captured with authenticity, joy, and a true reflection of the couple’s unique love story.
If you’re planning an LGBTQIA+ wedding in Newcastle or beyond, I’d love to hear your ideas and bring your vision to life - let’s chat!
Contact me today to document your love story!
