Danny and Diane weren’t about to settle for a cookie-cutter wedding. Nope—they went full-on Pagan handfasting at the stunning Pekes Manor in East Sussex, and it was every bit as magical (and slightly wild) as it sounds. Think medieval outfits, ribbons, owls delivering the rings, and a crowd of guests who went all-in with their outfits. This wasn’t just a wedding—it was a proper experience.
For anyone wondering, a handfasting is an ancient Pagan tradition where the couple’s hands are tied together with cords or ribbons to symbolise their union. It’s literally where the phrase “tying the knot” comes from. Pretty cool, right?
The brilliant Lisa from Bubblegum Ceremonies was their celebrant, and she absolutely nailed it—balancing the spiritual, meaningful side with a warmth that made everyone feel included. It felt powerful, emotional, and joyful all at once.
Pekes Manor: The Perfect Stage
If you’re going to host a Pagan wedding, Pekes Manor is basically begging for it. The gardens, the sweeping history, the atmosphere—it all added up to the perfect backdrop for Danny and Diane’s handfasting. Huge shoutout to Amy from Pekes Manor, who ran the whole thing with absolute calm and made sure every little detail clicked into place. Legend.
The Owl That Stole the Show
Forget ring pillows—Danny and Diane had a full-blown owl swoop in to deliver theirs. Yep, you read that right. Ryan from Owl Adventures brought along not just the owl (who instantly became the day’s breakout star), but also treated everyone to a flying display with his birds of prey. Guests loved every minute of it, me included!
Photographing birds in flight isn’t exactly easy—but those split-second moments of wings spread wide? Totally worth the challenge, and some of my favourite shots from the day.
Medieval Vibes & Guest Goals
Danny and Diane looked straight out of history in their medieval-style outfits—fun, full of character, but also completely authentic to the handfasting tradition. And the guests? Hats off to them, because they turned up looking incredible. Everyone made the effort, and it gave the whole day this immersive, festival-meets-history vibe.
It was such a joy to photograph because every single corner was packed with colour, texture, and personality. From flowing gowns to handmade accessories, the outfits really told a story—and capturing them all felt like documenting a living, breathing medieval wedding
A Day to Remember
Danny and Diane’s Pagan handfasting was more than just a wedding—it was an experience that felt deeply personal, a bit wild, and totally unforgettable. With a stunning venue, a one-of-a-kind ceremony, owls stealing the spotlight, and guests who gave it everything, it was nothing short of magical.
To Danny and Diane—thank you for letting me dive into your world for the day. Your handfasting at Pekes Manor was the perfect mix of heart, history, and pure fun, and I’m so glad I got to capture it all.
Thinking of planning your own handfasting ceremony? I’d love to capture it—drop me a message and let’s make some magic happen!
