Carla & Dominic - The Gorton Monastery
There are certain wedding venues that stay with you long after the day has ended — places where history, atmosphere, and light come together to create something truly unforgettable.
For me, Gorton Monastery — officially The Friary of St Francis, Manchester — is one of those rare spaces.
Having photographed several weddings here over the years, I’ve grown to appreciate its soaring Gothic architecture and the quiet sense of reverence it inspires. No two weddings ever feel the same. The way light moves through the building shifts with the seasons — from the cool, moody tones of winter to warm golden sunlight streaming through the stained-glass windows in summer.
On this particular wedding day, I returned to The Monastery during one of the hottest, sunniest days of the year — a gift and a challenge in equal measure. Sunlight flooded the vast interior, illuminating the stonework and architectural details in a way that felt almost cinematic.
A Day Filled with Emotion
The day began with the familiar rhythm of bridal and groom preparations, followed by guests arriving, quiet laughter, and the anticipation that always builds just before a ceremony begins.
Carla and Dominic exchanged their vows beneath the high vaulted ceilings of The Monastery, surrounded by the grandeur of the space and the warmth of those closest to them. It was a ceremony filled with genuine emotion — understated, heartfelt, and deeply personal.
Afterwards, I documented their day using my signature blend of documentary storytelling and natural portraiture. From candid guest interactions to relaxed group photographs and a few quiet moments shared just between the couple, the day unfolded effortlessly — filled with light, connection, and joy.
A Venue Like No Other
Gorton Monastery is more than a backdrop — it becomes a character within the story itself. Every wedding I’ve photographed here has felt unique, yet each shares the same unmistakable sense of timelessness. It’s a space that honours both past and present, and as a photographer, it’s a privilege to capture that balance between architecture and emotion.
A wedding at The Friary of St Francis, Gorton — timeless, elegant, and deeply personal.
View highlights from Carla & Dominic’s wedding below.
