Highgate Wine Estate Wedding

Highgate Wine Estate weddings are, without a doubt, one of my favorite wedding venues in the Midlands. As a wedding photographer, it offers everything I could dream of romance, texture, and endless beauty at every turn. The Cader wedding was a perfect example of why I love working here, and it’s one I’ll never forget.

Getting Ready at Home

The day began at the Caders’ home, where the excitement was tangible. Their children ran between rooms, filling the morning with laughter and a sense of warmth that set the tone for the day. Documenting those little moments tiny shoes on the floor, curls being pinned into place, and kids sneaking cuddles with mom was such a joy. It felt intimate and real, a reminder that weddings are not just about two people, but the families they bring together.

A Ceremony in the Highgate Wine Estate Forest Chapel

Highgate’s indoor forest chapel is unlike anywhere else I’ve photographed. Rows of pine trees rise up around the space, creating a setting that feels sacred and natural all at once. As the light filtered through the branches, it framed the ceremony with a softness that was breathtaking. Watching the couple exchange vows in this woodland-like sanctuary made the moment feel timeless and grounded in nature.

Canapés on the Front Lawn

After the ceremony, guests spilled out onto the front lawn for canapés. Glasses clinked, laughter carried across the estate, and everyone basked in the gentle Midlands sunshine. From my perspective, it was the perfect in-between moment: relaxed, joyful, and filled with candid opportunities to capture people just being themselves.

Couple Shoot in the Highgate Wine Estate Wine Cellar

For the couple shoot, we stepped into Highgate’s Wine Cellar lined with wine barrels. The earthy, rustic textures contrasted beautifully with the elegance of the newlyweds. The space offered pockets of warm light and shadow, which created an intimate, almost cinematic feel. It was a photographer’s dream—romantic, moody, and undeniably unique.

The couple later said: “We still talk about those intimate moments in the wine cellar! The experience was so intimate and fun for Hubby and I, we did not look too posed or uncomfortable in any way.” Hearing that makes me so grateful for the trust they placed in me.

Reception in the Brick Hall

As evening drew in, everyone gathered in the warm brick reception hall for dinner. The space glowed with golden light, setting the stage for a Michelin-starred meal that was as memorable as the speeches and dancing that followed. The hall is both cozy and grand, making it the perfect backdrop for a celebration that carried well into the night.

A Dress to Remember

And of course, I can’t forget Micaela. She was radiant in her original Joslyn Kim wedding dress. The gown was timeless yet modern, and it carried her personality so effortlessly. I loved how it moved with her elegant in the chapel, playful on the lawn, and striking among the wine barrels. It was more than a dress; it was a reflection of her grace and confidence.

Words from the Caders

Their review still warms my heart:

“Alida had already been a part of so many milestones in our lives by shooting my maternity photos and my youngest daughter’s Cake Smash session, so naturally we decided to choose our favorite to help capture our Best Day Ever. We were looking for someone who could capture OUR vision for the day, not focus too much on tradition. Alida, you outdid yourself once again! From your flexibility with venue changes (thanks Covid!) to getting the perfect angle and light you guided us gently and gave us images that blew even our wildest expectations out of the park. We are in awe. We get to relive Our Best Day Ever and share it with all those we love.”

The Cader wedding at Highgate Wine Estate was a celebration full of heart, beauty, and unforgettable details. It reminded me why I adore being a wedding photographer in the Midlands because days like this feel like pure magic.

Vendors:

Makeup: Slay Makeup Design

Hair: Hair by Rae

Decor and Setup: Stacey Bukus Ellis, Sparkle Planners

Dress: Joslyn Kim

Venue: Highgate Wine Estate