Alternative wedding party portrait on the steps of West Bridgford Registry Office

Alternative Nottingham Registry Office Wedding

I love photographing weddings that do things a little differently, and Lauren and Rich’s wedding was a perfect example of a couple creating a day that truly reflected their personalities.

From Lauren’s incredible black patterned wedding dress to Doc Martens and plenty of tattoos, this was a wedding full of character and individuality. Small weddings like this can often feel even more personal, and my relaxed photography style works perfectly for capturing the atmosphere of intimate celebrations.

West Bridgford is also a place that means a lot to me personally. It’s where I grew up and where I’ve recently moved back to, so photographing weddings here always feels extra special.

Colourful alternative wedding bouquet with dahlias and wildflowers
Glitter Dr Martens boots worn by an alternative bride

A Small Nottingham Registry Office Ceremony

When Lauren and Rich asked me to photograph their wedding, none of us could have predicted the unusual circumstances that would surround the day.

Their wedding took place on the first day small ceremonies were allowed again after lockdown restrictions, meaning the ceremony itself had to be incredibly intimate. Only witnesses were allowed inside the ceremony room, while friends and family gathered outside. Even I wasn’t allowed in and had to photograph through the window!

Guests even watched the ceremony live streamed on their phones outside the building so they could still be part of the moment.

Bride with family members outside a Nottingham registry office wedding
Wedding guest holding a colourful bouquet at an alternative Nottingham wedding
Couple standing during an intimate registry office wedding ceremony in Nottingham
Couple sharing their first kiss during an alternative Nottingham registry office wedding
Wedding party holding colourful bouquets outside a Nottingham registry office
Couple walking through confetti outside West Bridgford Registry Office in Nottingham

Wedding Photos in West Bridgford Park

After the ceremony we headed into West Bridgford Park for family photographs and relaxed couple portraits.

The park is a brilliant spot for wedding photos, with lots of greenery, interesting corners and space to wander around together for a few minutes after the ceremony. It’s also always fun watching newlyweds being congratulated by passing dog walkers and curious locals!

Bride and groom portrait with colourful bouquet during an alternative Nottingham wedding
Alternative wedding party portrait on the steps of West Bridgford Registry Office
Bridesmaids holding colourful bouquets outside a Nottingham registry office
Bride and groom walking through West Bridgford Park after their wedding ceremony
Bride and groom portrait in West Bridgford Park after a Nottingham registry office wedding
Bride and groom portrait in West Bridgford Park after their registry office wedding
tattooed bride and groom hands with Wedding rings resting on flowers
Wedding drinks being served outside after a Nottingham registry office ceremony
Tattooed bridesmaids drinking cocktails after a registry office wedding in Nottingham
Small floral wedding cake at an intimate Nottingham wedding reception

If you’re planning a Nottingham wedding or an alternative registry office celebration, I’d love to hear about your plans. Please feel free to get in touch via my contact page.

You can also view another wedding I photographed at West Bridgford Registry Office here. Rachel & Drew – West Bridgford Registry Office Wedding

If you’re in the early stages of planning, you can find more inspiration in my guide to Nottingham wedding venues.


I can’t thank Sally enough for being so accommodating to our ever-changing wedding landscape due to C-19. The pictures she took for us to capture the day perfectly – relaxed, happy and stylish. We had no idea she was there the majority of the day and made everyone feel at ease for the more staged shots.

Thanks so much Sally! 5/5*
Lauren & Rich


Wedding Suppliers:

Wedding Photographer: Weddings by Sally Rose

Wedding Venue: West Bridgford Registry Office

Wedding dress: We Are Kindred (ASOS)

Bride’s shoes: New Look and Dr Martens

Brides Jewellery – The Great Frog and ASOS

Groom’s suit: ASOS (Viggo)

Florist: Marias Flowers

Hair Stylist: Georgia Rose

Makeup Artist: N/A due to Covid-19

Bridesmaid dresses: Chosen by Bridesmaids

Cake: Ruby Lou’s Cakes

Drinks: The Black Pearl


Alternative Registry Office Wedding FAQs

Can you wear a black wedding dress for a registry office wedding?

Absolutely. Registry office weddings are perfect for couples who want to do things differently. Brides can wear anything from traditional white dresses to colourful or alternative outfits like Lauren’s black patterned dress.

Are registry office weddings good for alternative weddings?

Yes, registry office weddings are a great option for couples planning an alternative or non-traditional wedding. Smaller ceremonies allow couples to focus on personal style and unique details rather than following traditional wedding expectations.

Can you have civil partnerships at the registry office in West Bridgford?

Yes, West Bridgford Registry Office does host civil Partnerships and is available for same-sex couples & opposite-sex couples.