Given how often I work at this venue, I’m amazed I haven’t yet done a proper blog post about it!
Because Priston Mill is a fantastic wedding venue literally down the road from me. Barely a 5-minute drive away, I could walk to this venue if I didn’t have to carry a bunch of photography kit too. To date, I’ve shot 18 weddings here! So, here’s everything I know about having a Priston Mill wedding from a photographer’s perspective.
A little history
I do love to start with a bit of history. Priston Mill doesn’t disappoint. It’s been a wedding and events venue for more than 20 years now. But it’s history goes back much further. In fact, it has some of the oldest history of a wedding venue I’ve seen!
The actual site dates back to the 10th century, with the watermill standing there since 931! The land and mill were gifted to the monks from Bath Abbey. Later, in the 1700s, a new mill was built, which is when Tythe Barn was added. Since then it’s been a working mill and farm, and the first wedding took place in 1991 when I was barely out of my school uniform!
The Venue
At Priston Mill, there are two buildings to choose from. The Watermill, first of all, is a beautiful 3-storey building. It has the smaller capacity of the two buildings, but it’s full of quirks and charms, and you can even see the working mechanism of the old mill. There’s a great atmosphere here, and your guests will be talking about your wedding for years afterwards.
Tythe Barn is possibly the grander option with its vaulted ceilings and beautiful walled gardens. It’s also the larger space, which is worth remembering if you’re planning a bigger do.
Both these stunning spaces are finished to a very high standard, and there are so many gorgeous spots for your wedding photos.
Bridal Prep and Accommodation
So, where will you get ready and where can you and your guests stay? There are some great places in the local area, and I’m sure a quick Google search will give a long list. But I have a couple of favourites I love to recommend. Remember, I know this neck of the woods!
The Pig Hotel, near Bath, is a relaxed country house with rustic, cosy charm. Radford Villa is nearby. It’s a gorgeous little B&B with incredible, attentive owners. Avon Farm House is a new venue with bags of luxury – a pool and hot tub for starters! And the Gardener’s Cottage at Parish’s House is another stunning place to consider.
-Your Priston Mill Wedding –
On your wedding day, here’s a rough rundown of how the day can work, along with my extra hints and tips.
The Preparations
First off, I’ll come and photograph you getting ready. If your other half is nearby, I can get some shots of them too. Otherwise, I’ll stay with you and then shoot off, just before you, to the venue. I know those roads well, so I can whip through them with no fear of getting lost.
Once at Priston Mill, I’ll photograph your other half and your guests arriving, then wait for you to arrive.
Confetti and Formals
After the ceremony, we can do confetti shots outside if the weather is good, or your guests can throw it as you’re coming up the aisle. Get your bridesmaids or ushers hand it out for you or leave some little bags on the seats.
You’d be crazy not to have your canapes and drinks outside if the weather is good. I’ll take lots of candids then, giving you a chance to say hello to everyone. And then we can get started on your group shots! There are so many great spots for this at both the Watermill and Tythe Barn. If it’s raining, you might have to encourage your guests to come outside with an umbrella at the Watermill as space is a little tight. I also know the best spots to grab a big group photo at both venues.
The Couple Shots
And then it’ll be time to whisk you guys off for some romantic shots. I’ll take you away for 10-15 minutes because I’m sure you’ll want to get back to your guests! But, if you’re up for it and the weather is playing, we can head back out in the evening around sunset for some super hot romantic photos. There’s a field with a stream (bring your wellies!), and an adventure playground for something fun and quirky. I can even throw you in my car and take you a little further afield if you’re feeling adventurous.
The Party
Priston Mill is very supportive if you want to do sparkler shots. They’ll help you get it all set up and those sparklers lit, which is always the hardest part! Here’s how to plan a wedding sparkler exit if you’d like one.
Finally, when it’s time to cut the cake, I recommend sticking it in the middle of the dance floor. It’s a great spot to make sure your guests are in the photographs too.
Why Should You Choose Me for Your Priston Mill Wedding?
I know this venue as well as I know my own home. The light, the staff, the registrars, all the protocols and the best local suppliers, which I’m more than happy to recommend to you. I’ve been shooting weddings here since 2014. I even shot my first ever wedding here! It’s a venue very close to my heart (as well as to my house!).
Priston Mill is a superb wedding venue for all seasons. I love it in the autumn but, really, any time of year is glorious. Oh, and did I mention I’m a recommended supplier here.
Ready to book me for your Priston Mill wedding photography? Let’s talk! I’d love to share even more tips with you about this stunning venue.
Contact me if you want to book a meeting, fancy a nice glossy brochure?
Wedding Photography in Bath
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