When Donna and Mark booked me as their photographer, I was thrilled for two reasons. First, they’re a truly lovely couple—friendly, easygoing, and warm. From the very start, I knew their wedding day would be full of laughs, kindness, and genuine emotion. Second, they chose Newcastle Civic Centre as their venue, a place close to my heart due to my passion for Brutalism. This architectural style, also known as "Beton Brut" (French for "raw concrete"), shines through Newcastle Civic Centre, a building that encapsulates the rugged elegance of 1960s Brutalism beautifully.

I couldn’t wait to combine the unique style of the Civic Centre with the natural charm of Donna and Mark, and the day turned out to be everything I’d hoped for and more.

Why Brutalism? A Quick Dive into the History
Before I dive into the details of the day, let’s take a step back to appreciate the venue itself. Brutalism emerged in post-World War II architecture, often conveying honesty and resilience. This style is characterized by its raw concrete, geometric shapes, and utilitarian aesthetics, rejecting unnecessary decoration in favor of practical, unpolished materials. Newcastle Civic Centre, completed in 1968, is a prime example, capturing the spirit of Brutalism through its concrete towers and solid yet inviting design.

While Brutalism isn’t for everyone, its timeless simplicity, authenticity, and boldness are what draw me to it as a photographer. Capturing people against Brutalist architecture often adds a special contrast—softness against strength, life against stillness. I knew that this architectural beauty would provide striking backdrops for Donna and Mark’s wedding day.

A Day to Remember
October in Newcastle can be hit or miss, but we lucked out with glorious sunshine. The warmth and light created the perfect setting for a celebration, and with just 13 guests, the day felt deeply intimate and personal. Donna and Mark kept their wedding small, inviting only their closest family and friends, which gave the entire day a relaxed, easy-going vibe.

Style and Elegance: The Wedding Attire
Donna looked absolutely stunning in her dress. She opted for a look that was both timeless and modern, accentuating her natural beauty. The dress had a simple, classic silhouette with subtle detailing, perfectly suited to her. Mark, meanwhile, looked sharp in a tailored suit that added an extra touch of elegance to the occasion. Together, they were the picture of grace and style, fitting perfectly into the surroundings of the Civic Centre.

The Ceremony Room: A Haven of Diffused Light
One of the standout elements of Newcastle Civic Centre is its ceremony room, which features beautiful diffused lighting streaming through large windows. This soft, natural light created an ethereal atmosphere, making every moment feel a bit more magical. As Donna walked down the aisle, with rays of sunlight gently illuminating the room, it felt like a scene out of a movie.

The ceremony itself was heartfelt and emotional, filled with little moments that will stay with me for a long time. There were tears, laughs, and an overwhelming sense of love, all made even more powerful by the closeness of the guest list. With only 13 people in the room, every person felt deeply connected to the couple, making the day even more meaningful.

Capturing the Details and Emotions
As a photographer, my role is to capture both the big moments and the quiet ones—the ones that sometimes go unnoticed but mean so much. With such an intimate group, I had the chance to capture small gestures, shared glances, and quiet moments of reflection. Donna and Mark’s wedding was full of these tender moments, and each photo I took felt like a window into their beautiful connection.

The Confetti Run and a Toast to the Newlyweds
After the ceremony, we gathered outside the Civic Centre for the traditional confetti run. As they walked through a shower of confetti, surrounded by beaming friends and family, Donna and Mark looked genuinely joyous. The sun was shining, the laughter was infectious, and it was a perfect transition from the formal part of the day to the celebration ahead.

Reception at Branzino’s Italian Restaurant in Newburn
Following the confetti run, we headed to Branzino’s Italian Restaurant in Newburn for the reception. This restaurant, located in the historic Boathouse building along the River Tyne, is a place with character and charm. The Boathouse has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s and was originally part of the maritime trade along the Tyne. Over time, it has been transformed into a beloved local spot, and Branzino’s has built a reputation for delicious Italian fare and a welcoming atmosphere.

The location itself is stunning, offering views of the river and an ideal setting for candid shots of guests relaxing and enjoying each other’s company. The intimate size of the group made for a truly warm, friendly celebration. As Donna and Mark shared toasts with their closest friends and family, it was clear that this was a day filled with genuine connection and heartfelt joy.

Final Thoughts: The Beauty of Intimacy and Simplicity
Donna and Mark’s wedding was a day that reminded me of the beauty of simplicity. With just a small group of loved ones, a stunning dress, a tailored suit, and a beautiful Brutalist backdrop, the day was pure magic. It’s moments like these that make me so grateful to be a wedding photographer—to capture these memories for people who appreciate both the big moments and the little details.

Key Stats from the Day

• Date of Wedding: 26-10-24

• Venue: Newcastle Civic Centre

• Reception Venue: Branzino’s Italian Restaurant, Newburn

• Weather: Glorious sunshine, perfect for photos

• Photographer’s Excitement Level: Ecstatic!

Donna and Mark, thank you for letting me be a part of your day. It was an honour to capture these memories, and I wish you both endless happiness in the years to come.