Wedding Photography in Thanet: Capturing Seaside England
December 6, 2024
Us locals proudly call it “Fanet”, yet we all know Thanet is a jewel on England’s southeastern coast. You’ve got gorgeous seaside towns, France on your doorstep and Canterbury not too far down the road. For couples planning their wedding in Thanet, the backdrop is timeless. Think Only Fools and Horses, Vintage Seaside postcards and as a wedding photographer, I’m lucky to call this corner of the world both home and inspiration. Born in Margate, recommended by Turner Contemporary wedding venue and now living in Ramsgate, I’ve spent my life immersed in Thanet’s beauty, and since moving to Ramsgate I’m all for more luxury weddings here.
In this blog Wedding Photography in Thanet: Capturing Seaside England, I’ll explore the picturesque wedding locations across Thanet and beyond, dive into examples of real weddings I’ve captured at stunning venues, and share how engagement and proposal photography can elevate your love story. Let’s go!
Ramsgate: Coastal Charm and Historic Venues
Ramsgate’s got an epic harbour full of snazzy yachts, and now and then features a pirate ship! These out of the ordinary maritime and sandy beach locations offer a dreamy setting for wedding photography, it’s just about finding the right venue. The iconic Royal Harbour, with its bustling marina and Georgian architecture, is a favourite spot to explore, let alone for couple portraits. Whether it’s the golden hour light shimmering off the water or the dramatic skies over the harbour, Ramsgate is a place often overlooked by Margate.
One standout venue for Wedding Photography in Thanet: Capturing Seaside England is Albion House, nestled on the top of the hill overlooking Ramsgate harbour. This Georgian townhouse boasts breathtaking views (especially during a windy day!) of the sea, offering an idyllic backdrop for your big day. With its beautifully restored interiors, including chic reception rooms and luxurious suites, Albion House provides an intimate yet sophisticated setting for celebrations. Whether you’re exchanging vows in the light-filled ceremony room or enjoying sunset portraits on the terrace, this venue ensures your wedding is timeless and unforgettable. You can even stay overnight in the rooms, which I definitely recommend for bridal preparation shots.
Margate: Creative Energy Meets Seaside Elegance
Margate, where I was born, is a vibrant town combining classic seaside charm with a modern creative vibe. The town’s iconic spots, such as the Turner Contemporary and Dreamland, make for unique photo opportunities where you can have your wedding, while its sandy beaches and tidal pools provide stunning natural backdrops. Just remember to check the tide times and if it’s too gnarly on the beach you can always take a wander through the trendy town centre.
In terms of Wedding Photography in Thanet: Capturing Seaside England, there are a few wedding venues that Margate boasts, but otherwise I would recommend venues nearby like Ripple Court Estate, Solton Manor or Chapel House Estate.
Sandwich: Timeless and Picturesque
The medieval town of Sandwich is super old but special, offering cobbled streets, ancient architecture, and tranquil riverside views. It’s a quieter spot that lends itself beautifully to intimate weddings.
One notable venue is The Salutation, a stunning 20th-century house with gorgeous gardens designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. Do you remember Gogglebox? There’s a couple from one of the older series that owns the place. The landscaped grounds provide endless options for elegant portraits, from manicured lawns to blooming flower beds. It’s a place where timeless romance and natural beauty come together effortlessly.
You also have The Bell Hotel which offers quayside views and decent parking too. Just down the road from the Salutation but closer to the river and willow trees!
Nearby Gems: Deal, Whitstable, and Beyond
While Thanet shines brightly, there are nearby locations that deserve mention for their incredible wedding offerings. Consider all the travelling that normally has to happen for a London wedding, you won’t mind a short 30 minute drive when it takes you to a brilliant location.
Deal, with its historic castle and quaint seafront, is perfect for couples who want a touch of history and coastal beauty. The charming fishing town has an understated elegance, with plenty of hidden corners for intimate portraits. Consider the Royal Hotel, the Astor Theatre or the Courtyard (who do the best champagne!) for bigger weddings. If you have a smaller intimate wedding but with a larger budget, consider the Rose which has been spotted in multiple fashionable magazines.
Slightly further down the road towards St Margarets you have the Pines Calyx for luxury weddings – definitely check them out.
Whitstable is known for its fresh seafood, artistic community, and pebble beaches. Venues like East Quay provide a relaxed, bohemian feel, ideal for couples looking to embrace the seaside spirit on their big day.
For those willing to venture a little further, Camber Sands offers dramatic dunes and expansive beaches. It’s an incredible location for engagement shoots or post-wedding sessions, with its vast, unspoiled landscapes providing a cinematic quality to photos.
Spotlight on Real Weddings
1. Reach Court Farm
One of my most memorable weddings at Reach Court Farm was a summer celebration filled with personal touches. The couple exchanged vows under a canopy of flowers, surrounded by their closest family and friends and boy it was a hot day! We captured candid moments of laughter during the reception and stole away for a few private portraits at sunset. The golden fields around the venue provided the perfect natural frame for the couple’s love story, plus we got to feed the cute horses, check it out!
2. The Old Kent Barn
The Old Kent Barn, located just outside Thanet, is a dream venue for couples seeking elegance and versatility. This team live and breathe weddings, and with its beautifully landscaped gardens and stunning oak barn, it’s a venue that feels both luxurious and inviting. Also, I’ve been a recommended supplier here for over 5 years running!
I’ve shot here multiple times and each wedding has been different – whether it’s been a sweet summer day, breezy autumnal Thursday or Christmas-time celebration, it works in every season.
Engagement and Proposal Photography
Your wedding journey begins long before the big day, and engagement or proposal photography is a wonderful way to celebrate that milestone. Thanet’s coastal beauty makes it an ideal setting for capturing these special moments. Stoney beaches won’t be found here, except from rockpools and sand!
Imagine proposing at sunset on Ramsgate’s beach or having your engagement shoot in Margate’s Old Town, with its quirky streets and pastel-painted buildings. These sessions not only produce cherished memories but also allow us to build a rapport before your wedding day, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
Why Choose a Local Photographer?
As someone who lives in Ramsgate and was born in Margate, I bring more than just technical expertise to my work—I bring a deep connection to the area. I know how to navigate the quirks of seaside weather, find the best light at different times of the day, and uncover hidden gems that make your wedding photos unique.
My approach combines documentary-style photography with natural, editorial-style portraits. This means I capture the candid, emotional moments of your day while also creating timeless images that wouldn’t look out of place in a magazine.
Conclusion
Thanet and its surrounding areas offer a stunning array of options for couples planning their dream wedding. From the coast of Ramsgate and Margate to the historic vibes of Sandwich and Deal, each location has something special to offer. Definitely consider taking a little weekend away to check these places out in person.
Whether you’re tying the knot at Reach Court Farm, The Old Kent Barn, or a beachside venue in Whitstable, I’d be honoured to capture your love story in this beautiful part of the world. And if you’re planning an engagement or proposal, let’s create images that reflect the joy and excitement of your journey together.
If you’re searching for a wedding photographer in Thanet, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s talk about how we can make your seaside wedding truly unforgettable.
