Lightwoods House in Smethwick is a fantastic choice for a wedding venue! This Grade II listed building, nestled in the serene Lightwoods Park, combines historic charm with beautiful gardens, making it a lovely backdrop for a special day.
Located just a short distance from Birmingham, it’s easy for guests to reach, whether they’re local or traveling from afar. There’s ample parking, and its proximity to Birmingham makes it convenient for overnight stays with plenty of hotels available locally,
A place very dear to me...
Lightwoods House has always held a special place in my heart. I grew up about 500 yards from Lightwoods Park & House. When Sandwell Council invested millions into restoring the house I hoped they planned to hold weddings there. Once the paint was dry couples could finally book and I have been lucky enough to photograph a several weddings at Lightwoods House since then.
Mike & John getting ready at Lightwoods House in the morning prep room
Guests waiting in the downstairs reception rooms.
Mike & John's guests making their way upstairs to the Long Room for the ceremony.
Historic and Elegant Architecture
The house, originally built in the late 18th century and later expanded in Victorian times, has been beautifully restored. Its elegant interiors with high ceilings, large windows, and ornate fireplaces add a refined, classic touch to wedding photos.
Jess & Aaron's guests waiting for the ceremony. Jess makes her way down the aisle beside her father.
Versatile Event Spaces
Lightwoods House offers a variety of rooms to suit different wedding sizes, including the Long Room for larger celebrations and smaller, more intimate rooms for smaller gatherings or pre-ceremony preparations.
Erika & Frazer had a very small & intimate wedding with just a handful of guests - Lightwoods House was the perfect space for their wedding ceremony
Mike & John's ceremony in the Long Room. They decided to walk eachother down the aisle.
Jess & Aaron say their 'I do's' infront of their friends and loved ones.
Whilst the register is being signed I like to take candid shots of the wedding guests.
The New Mr & Mrs!
A quick kiss and then it's time to walk back down the aisle to applause from their wedding guests.
Guests heading downstairs following the newly-weds for confetti shots and the drinks reception.
Time for the Confetti...
Either taken in the garden or at the front door-the confetti shots are a favourite part of the day for me.
Group shots...
I usually start the group shots with the main group shot of everyone at the wedding. Jess and Aaron wanted the house as the backdrop to their main group photograph.
Whilst the guests are chatting and enjoying their reception drinks I like to take candid images. Once the couple are ready I then start the family and friends group photographs.
Beautiful Garden
The surrounding gardens and Lightwoods Park provide wonderful settings for outdoor ceremonies and photos. The Shakespeare Garden, with its English country garden feel, and the fountain area are both especially scenic spots.
When the sun is shinning the gardens are a beautiful backdrop for my candid shots.
Couple shots in the Shakespeare Garden...
Shakespeare Garden is the perfect place for me to take the couple shots. There is plenty of space for me to take the couple a little way away from the guests so they can relax.
Mike & John's couple shots were taken as the sun went down. The gardens looked incredible, esspecially the roses.
Outdoor Marquee...
Guests making their way into the marquee for the wedding breakfast and speeches.
The marquee is such a fabulous space, being white it matches any decor choices.
Time for the speeches...
The staircase...
One of my favourite shots is the staircase. I ask my couples to stand at the bottom of the staircase whilst I climb to get to a point where I can position myself to get a great shot!
Evening shots as the light fades...
Evening shots for Jess & Aaron at the bandstand. You can hold your ceremony at the beautiful Edwardian Bandstand if you so wish.
The First Dance...
With friends and loved ones looking on Jess & Aaron took to the floor in the long room for their first dance. I light the dancefloor with my off camera flash to achieve these shots.
Night shots...
Just before I leave, if my couples don't mind leaving the party to join me outside, I like to set up my flashes and get a few night shots with the house and gardens illuminated in the background. Holly & James really did nail these shots!
Lightwoods House is a gem!
Lightwoods House has a warm, welcoming vibe. The staff is known for their personalized approach, helping couples design ceremonies that feel intimate and meaningful.
For a couple looking for an elegant venue with a bit of history and an inviting atmosphere, Lightwoods House is a gem.