Ashlea & Tom – A Joyful, Emotional Barn Wedding at Montague Farm

Picture the people you love most, all in one place, with nowhere else they’d rather be. That’s exactly what Ashlea and Tom wanted from their wedding at Montague Farm, and it’s exactly what they got.

As a Montague Farm wedding photographer, I can tell you this was one of the most emotional days of my year. The love Ashlea and Tom have for each other, and for their families, is on another level.

Tucked away in Hankham on the edge of the Pevensey Levels, this family-run farm has three beautifully restored barns and views stretching all the way to the sea. Ashlea and Tom called it their home away from home.

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed East Sussex barn wedding where every moment feels real, this one’s for you.

A Calm Morning Before the Tears

Ashlea got ready at a pretty cottage a short drive from the farm, with Lauren Alice Make Up and Emily J Hair Dressing looking after her.

I love these little details. Her shoes, her perfume and the rings, waiting in their wooden heart boxes.

Then came one of my favourite moments of any wedding morning. Ashlea’s mum, Therese, carefully fastening her into her dress.

First Looks in the Cottage Garden

Ashlea and Tom chose to wait until the aisle to see each other. So I knew the morning’s first looks would belong to two very special men in her life.

First was her brother, Connor, her man of honour. He waited in the cottage garden, and the moment he turned around said everything.

Then it was her dad’s turn. Martin had been waiting for this moment for a long time, and you can see it in his face.

Everybody was finding it hard to hold it together. If you’re thinking about a first look with your dad, these photographs might just make your mind up for you.

A Ceremony in Pigs Palace

Back at Montague Farm, guests gathered in Pigs Palace. It’s an 18th century barn with flint walls and oak beams wrapped in foliage and fairy lights.

Tom waited at the front with his groomsmen, doing his best to look calm.

Ashlea’s dad looked incredibly proud as he walked her down the aisle.

There was a big hug for Tom at the front too.

There were laughs as well as happy tears, and Ashlea couldn’t stop smiling.

The little ring bearers took their job very seriously.

Then came the vows, the rings and that first kiss.

While they signed the register, family friend Philippa sang for them. Their violinist, Sarah, was a gift from Ashlea’s parents and played right up until the speeches.

And just like that, they were married.

So Much Confetti

The confetti throw was an absolute blast. There was so much of it!

Guests didn’t hold back, and neither did Ashlea and Tom.

Montague Farm Wedding Photos Full of Fun

Ashlea and Tom told me early on that they didn’t want lots of posed pictures. They wanted laughter, candid moments and their people around them.

We still made time for a few classic portraits, like this one with the vintage car.

And the guys running towards the camera? Lots of fun was had by everyone, and I loved every second.

Private Vows Overlooking the Pevensey Levels

One of the most important moments of the whole day happened away from the guests.

I knew from our planning together that Ashlea and Tom wanted to read private vows to each other. So we slipped away during the drinks reception to The Nest, looking out across the Pevensey Levels.

There were tears all round. It was such a special part of the day, just the two of them and those endless views.

If you’re wondering whether private vows are right for you, here’s my take. They give you a moment that’s completely yours, in the middle of a day you share with everyone.

A Big Barn Entrance

Big Barn was one of Ashlea and Tom’s favourite things about Montague Farm, and it’s easy to see why. Reclaimed wood walls, white drapes and those huge wagon wheel lights.

Their entrance into the wedding breakfast was full of high energy and great fun. Everybody was on their feet, waving napkins and cheering them on.

Speeches and Happy Tears

The speeches were incredibly emotional. Ashlea started things off herself, followed by best man Samuel, her dad and finally Tom.

So many happy tears, with plenty of laughter in between.

Relaxed Portraits Around the Farm

Ashlea had her heart set on a few spots around the farm, and the leather sofas were a perfect spot for a bit of relaxation.

Then we headed out across the grass for a few quiet minutes together. This is where those views really come into their own.

Ashlea couldn’t resist a run across the lawn, cheered on by the bridesmaids.

Cake, a Caravan and a Broken Step

There was a funny moment at the mini caravan photo booth. Tom stepped out onto the step and snapped it clean in half!

Then it was time to cut the cake from Abbie’s Cakes, with both sets of parents close by.

A First Dance at Montague Farm

Their first dance was spectacular, which flowed into a father and daughter dance.

When the confetti cannons went off, it took things to another level. The moment Tom took Ashlea in his arms and spun her around was incredible!

Then Martin took his turn on the dance floor with his daughter.

There’s no doubt they had great fun, and soon the dance floor belonged to everyone.

A September Wedding at Montague Farm

Ashlea and Tom’s day was full of emotion, fun and family from start to finish. There were so many amazing photographs that it’s impossible to include them all, so this is just a tiny selection.

If you’re searching for a Montague Farm wedding photographer, I hope this gives you a real feel for how your own day could look and feel.

Suppliers

Venue – Montague Farm
Wedding planner – Blue Door Weddings
Catering – Kendale Catering
Cake – Abbie’s Cakes
Flowers – Loveland Flowers
Hair – Emily J Hair Dressing
Makeup – Lauren Alice Make Up
Videographer – Josh White Videography
DJ – Level Eleven
Violinist – Sarah
Photo booth and stationery – Becky
Furniture hire – Abbey’s Catering
Garden games – Love and Props

Looking for a Montague Farm Wedding Photographer?

If you’re getting married at Montague Farm and want natural, emotional photographs that tell your story, I’d love to hear about your plans.

See another real barn wedding in Hannah and Rory’s golden hour wedding at Fitzleroi Barn.

Or take a look at Lucy and Callum’s relaxed summer wedding at Grittenham Barn.