A Fire Show, Feather Boas & a Duck Hunt! Katy & Damian’s Joy-Filled Wedding at Coombe Lodge
Some weddings leave you with a smile that lasts for days, and Katy and Damian’s big day at Coombe Lodge in Blagdon was one of those rare and utterly joyful celebrations. As a wedding photographer, I get the honour of witnessing stories as they unfold, and this one came wrapped in laughter, heartfelt moments, confetti (lots of it!), surprise performances, and even a mini duck hunt.
Set in the rolling Somerset countryside near Bristol, Coombe Lodge has long been one of my favourite wedding venues. With its sweeping views, timeless interiors, and a sunset to make you swoon, it set the perfect stage for Katy and Damian’s summer wedding. I’ve photographed many weddings here over the years, but this one? This was something special.
When Katy met Damian – A Coffee House Romance!
Before I dive into the day, here’s a little backstory on this amazing couple. Katy and Damian first met back in early 2019. He was working at The Coffee House in Weston-Super-Mare, where Katy’s friend Jamie also worked. One Saturday morning, Katy popped in with her cousin, and Damien served her. Too shy to look her in the eye, but clearly making an impression. That evening at a Eurovision party (yes!), she asked Jamie about him.
Initially, it seemed like a non-starter. Damien was apparently in a relationship. But fate (and Jamie) had other plans. A week later, Katy got a text. Damien was single, had seen a photo of her, and wanted to get in touch. Their first date was at Prezzo (…my tenuous link to Coombe Lodge’s evening pizza yum yums), and though Damien barely spoke (Katy thought he wasn’t interested!), he asked her out again. Since then, she says, he hasn’t stopped talking! Fast forward to their 4th anniversary at the Coombe House Hotel, and Damien proposed over cream tea. Katy said yes (again), and they set the date. Exactly six years to the day since he first asked her to be his girlfriend.
Wedding Morning Prep at Coombe Lodge
Both Katy and Damian got ready at Coombe Lodge, which meant I could capture both sides of their story. I started the morning with the girls, and what a riot of fun they were! Katy got ready with her lovely Mum and bridesmaids in one of Coombe Lodge’s elegant bridal suite. The moring light there is just perfect for those bridal portraits. The energy in the room was infectious, and at one point Katy and I found ourselves singing Wicked together. Who says you can’t start your wedding day with a Broadway duet? Katy’s First Look with her stepdad was a beautiful, tender moment before he walked her down the aisle. Meanwhile, Damian’s groomsmen were up to mischief – more on that shortly!
Indoor Wedding Ceremony at Coombe Lodge
Coombe Lodge offers a stunning indoor ceremony space, and Katy walked down the aisle to the hauntingly beautiful “Blackbird” by The Beatles. The Registrar had a fantastic sense of humour, which always helps settle the nerves and lift the mood. But first came the groomsmen. Dressed in pink feather boas and baseball caps (yes, really), they danced / grinded, even, down the aisle. Flirting with guests, throwing confetti, and eventually delivering the rings. It was chaotic brilliance and set the tone for a day full of joy. (Pro tip: If you’re considering Temu pink feather boas, beware – they stain white shirts!)
Outdoor Drinks Reception & Group Photos
After the ceremony, we all spilled out into Coombe Lodge’s beautiful gardens to throw confetti and begin the hugs and celebrations. It was the kind of warm, breezy June day every couple dreams of. We did their group photos outside, and the guests were a lively bunch. One guest (a climber, apparently) literally turned his partner upside down for a photo. Another, a professional wrestler nursing a serious injury, did press-ups on crutches. You can’t make this stuff up.
Unique Wedding Ideas: Duck Hunt & Double Caterpillar Cake
One of my absolute favourite moments came during a walk through the venue when I spotted two tiny yellow ducks hidden behind the ceremony table flowers. You see, Katy and Damian had organised a ‘Duck Hunt’! Hundreds of miniature yellow ducks were hidden all around the venue for guests to find. A brilliant, whimsical touch that had everyone hunting like kids at Easter. Their cake? Not just one caterpillar cake, but two! A double caterpillar cake sat proudly at the dessert table – complete with a tiny camera nestled among the decorations as a nod to me. It’s the small things that hit you right in the feels.
Coombe Lodge Sunset Photos & BBQ Pizza Bliss
We were blessed with perfect weather all day, and as golden hour approached, I took Katy and Damian for a relaxed evening photo walk through the grounds. Coombe Lodge’s famous sunset did not disappoint, painting everything in warm, honeyed tones. Just magical. And then it was time for pulled pork pizza. Coombe Lodge truly outdid themselves here. I stayed a little later than planned because the atmosphere was just too good to leave (and honestly, the pizza was that good). A solid five stars from me.
Surprise ‘Fire Show’ Wedding Entertainment
Just when we all thought the surprises were over, Dan, their incredible Master of Ceremonies, revealed his true talent – a jaw-dropping fire show that lit up the evening. One moment he’s guiding guests, the next he’s spinning flames and creating a visual spectacle that had everyone cheering.
Coombe Lodge Wedding Dream Team
A day this smooth and memorable doesn’t just happen on its own. Huge shoutout to Isabelle, the events manager at Coombe Lodge on the day. She looked after everyone beautifully. And a big wave to Martha, too – always a pleasure to see the friendly faces at Coombe. Katy looked stunning in her gown from The Bridal Store in Weston-Super-Mare, and her bouquet and floral arrangements by Sophie at Field Good Flowers were just dreamy.
The evening entertainment from Ben at Prescott Entertainment kept everyone dancing (and singing along), and Dan deserves a standing ovation for both his MC talents and his fiery alter ego!
Thinking of Getting Married at Coombe Lodge?
Katy and Damian, thank you for trusting me to capture your wedding day. From our first chat to dancing and pizza at the end of the night, every moment was a delight. You created a wedding that reflected your love, your story, and your wonderfully quirky sense of fun.
To any couples reading this and planning their own day, take a note from Katy and Damian: fill your wedding with the things that make you smile. Whether that’s Broadway show tunes, a surprise fire performance, a duck hunt, or pizza under the stars – do it your way!
If you’re planning your wedding at Coombe Lodge and want relaxed, creative photography that captures the real you, I’d love to hear from you. You can check out more of my work and get in touch here.
You might also enjoy:
- Elegant Orchardleigh House Wedding with Vintage Charm
- Fun & Stylish Elmhay Park Wedding Photography
- Sunset Romance at the Roman Baths Wedding
Suppliers
Photographer: Rich Howman Photography, Film & Content – www.RichHowman.com
Venue: Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset – www.CoombeLodge.co.uk
Florist: Sophie at Field Good Flowers – www.fieldgoodflowers.co.uk
Dress: The Bridal Store, Weston-Super-Mare – www.wsmbridal.co.uk
Evening Entertainment / DJ: Ben at Prescott Entertainment – www.prescottentertainment.co.uk
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