Mileka and Jonathan chose Kilworth House in Leicestershire for their beautiful spring wedding, and what a day it was. Despite it being early March, the sunshine made a welcome appearance which meant guests could enjoy an outdoor drinks reception before heading inside for the cosiest candlelit speeches in Kilworth House’s stunning Orangery as the sun began to set. It’s safe to say, it truly was an incredible day from start to finish.
Set within acres of peaceful Leicestershire countryside, Kilworth House is a beautifully restored Victorian country house that feels completely tucked away from the world. With ceremony spaces, elegant reception rooms and expansive gardens all on one estate, it is the kind of venue where couples can relax and enjoy the whole day without needing to travel between locations.
Another lovely thing about a Kilworth House wedding is that guests can stay right on site. With 44 bedrooms within the hotel, couples can really make a weekend of it with their closest friends and family. That is exactly what Mileka and Jonathan did, turning their wedding into a full weekend celebration with the people they love most.
Morning wedding preparations at Kilworth House
When I arrived at Kilworth House on the morning of the wedding, Mileka and her girls were already busy getting ready. After capturing a few relaxed moments of the morning preparations, I popped next door to photograph Mileka’s gorgeous details which she had thoughtfully set aside.
Kilworth House has the most beautiful hotel rooms, filled with period features and tall windows overlooking the lawns and countryside beyond. They make the perfect setting for wedding morning photos, and I was completely spoilt for choice for where to photograph everything.
Mileka looked stunning, wearing a beautiful dress from Lara Belle Bridal Boutique, featuring delicate straps and soft floral details. Those floral touches were carried through the day in the wedding stationery and jewellery as well, tying everything together perfectly.
During our video call before the wedding, Mileka had mentioned she would love a photo of all her bridesmaids piled onto the bed together in their pyjamas. After hair and make-up had finished, we made sure to take a quick moment to capture that before everyone changed into their dresses. It was such a fun and relaxed way to start the day.
Ceremony in the Orangery at Kilworth House
Once all of the morning prep was complete, Mileka and Jonathan held their ceremony in the light-filled Orangery at Kilworth House. The space is flooded with natural light and overlooks the gardens, making it a wonderful setting for a wedding ceremony.
Their ceremony included some really personal touches too. Jonathan’s mum gave a reading, and their little nephew took on the very important role of chief ring bearer. It’s safe to say, he carried his responsibility out with great enthusiasm.
Despite it only being March, the sunshine held out for us. As soon as the ceremony finished everyone stepped straight out onto the terrace outside the Orangery. Guests gathered for confetti and drinks in the sunshine, which was the perfect start to the celebrations.
Couples wedding portraits at Kilworth House
When it came to couples portraits, we made the most of both the spaces that Kilworth House has to offer. From the elegant corridors to the courtyard and gardens, there are so many lovely spots for photos.
An image the couple had mentioned beforehand was a running shot together, so we made sure to include that. With Mileka’s flowing wedding dress it worked perfectly and created such a natural, joyful moment.
Reception and Evening celebrations at Kilworth House
The couple had opted to go against tradition for speeches with both Jonathan’s Aunty, Mileka’s mum and grandad giving speeches. This was such a special moment along with both the bride and groom giving speeches too! After a gorgeous wedding breakfast, the partying really got started! The couple had opted to go for a live band and this wasn’t any ordinary band. Synergy Band brought all of the party vibes with their unique mash of upbeat covers with a Spanish twist! It’s fair to say, it really did get everyone up and dancing!
What a gorgeous wedding, with the loveliest people!
I would love to hear from you if you are planning your own wedding. Pop me a message here
Dream Team
- Venue – Kilworth House
- Wedding dress – Lara Belle Bridal Boutique
- Flowers – Bradgate Flowers
- Cake – The Cake Lab
- Hair and make-up for bride – Rakhee Mandalia
- Make-up for bridal party – Becca Cross MUA
- Hair for bridal party – luxehairbeautybridal
- Band – Synergy
