May 8, 2025
We recently had the absolute privilege of documenting Sam and Lee’s extraordinary wedding day – a celebration that took us from the elegant preparations at Crabwall Manor to the unique and magical ceremony at The Square, Chester Zoo. This wasn’t just any ordinary wedding; it was a day where love met adventure, and every frame told a story as wild as it was beautiful.
As one of our valued venue partners, Chester Zoo continues to amaze us with its ability to provide couples with truly distinctive wedding experiences. The Square offers an unparalleled setting where couples can exchange vows surrounded by nature’s most magnificent creatures, creating memories that are both intimate and extraordinary.
The day began at the stunning Crabwall Manor, where Sam and her bridal party prepared for the big day. The elegant country house setting provided the perfect backdrop for those precious getting-ready moments – from the delicate details of the dress and shoes to the emotional first look with her father.
As we made our way to Chester Zoo, the excitement was palpable. The Square, with its contemporary architecture and natural surroundings, created the perfect contrast for this modern love story with a wild twist.
The ceremony at The Square was nothing short of magical. Natural light flooded through the venue’s impressive windows, creating the perfect ambiance for intimate ceremony photographs. The cherry blossom trees and rustic wooden elements added romance to every frame, while the knowledge that majestic animals were just beyond created an atmosphere of wonder and excitement.
We had Mark and Andy on hand to ensure comprehensive coverage of this special day. Andy focused on capturing the authentic moments and elegant portraits, while Mark provided additional coverage and coordination with the venue’s unique requirements. Our experience working with Chester Zoo’s distinctive environment allowed us to seamlessly blend traditional wedding photography with the venue’s extraordinary character.
And then came the moment that made this wedding truly unforgettable – our portrait session with some very special guests! The lion enclosure provided a backdrop that dreams are made of. Watching Sam and Lee share intimate moments while a majestic lion posed perfectly in the background was pure magic. These aren’t just wedding photos; they’re once-in-a-lifetime captures that perfectly embody the adventurous spirit of this incredible couple.
The golden hour lighting filtering through the trees created the perfect romantic atmosphere for their couple portraits, while the unique setting of Chester Zoo added an element of wonder that traditional venues simply cannot match.
The celebrations continued with heartfelt speeches, joyful laughter, and dancing under the stars. Our coverage ensured that every precious moment was preserved, from the cutting of the cake to the couple’s first dance, all while maintaining the relaxed, friendly approach that allows our couples to truly enjoy their special day.
Chester Zoo weddings offer something truly unique in the wedding industry. Where else can couples create memories with lions, penguins, and other magnificent creatures as witnesses to their love? The venue’s commitment to conservation and education adds a meaningful dimension to celebrations, while the professional facilities ensure that every detail is perfectly executed.
If Sam and Lee’s wild love story has inspired you to consider Chester Zoo for your own wedding, we’d love to help you create your own unforgettable memories. With packages starting from £995 for photography and £1295 for videography, we offer comprehensive coverage tailored to this unique venue’s requirements.
Our experience as a Chester Zoo partner venue means we understand the logistics, timing, and opportunities that make these weddings so special. From coordinating with the zoo’s schedule to knowing the best spots for those incredible animal encounters, we’re here to ensure your day runs smoothly while capturing every magical moment.
