I was delighted to be Kim & Mark’s wedding photographer for their beautiful wedding day at The City Rooms.
Winter weddings hold a special kind of magic, the crisp air, the warm glow of festive lights, and the intimacy that comes from gathering together on a chilly day to witness something beautiful with friends and family. This was exactly the atmosphere that surrounded Kim and Mark’s wedding day in the heart of Leicester city centre. Held at the magnificent City Rooms, a Georgian, Grade I listed venue rich with history and grandeur, their celebration had the perfect backdrop for their wedding photos.
Calm Yet Exciting
I arrived at The City Rooms early in the afternoon, greeted by the soft winter light filtering through the towering tall windows of this historic building. Despite being early December, we were fortunate to have a dry day even if a little cold, a rare blessing for a UK winter! The air was crisp but I knew Mark & Kim would venture outside for some photos along with guests even if there was limited time outside.
I first met Kim and Mark in person on their wedding day which is totally normal. Some of my couples like to have a meeting beforehand or just book and we communicate via video calls, email or texts. I digress, there was an undeniable energy about them. Both were visibly excited, though understandably a little nervous. That’s completely natural, of course. After a friendly chat with Mark who was already dressed and chatting with a few early guests I made my way upstairs to meet Kim in one of the boutique suites of The City Rooms.
In the softly lit room, Kim was surrounded by her small but close-knit group. Her mother and her bridesmaid. The atmosphere was relaxed and quietly joyful. Kim had expressed during our pre-wedding chats that she wasn’t particularly drawn to a lot of the ‘getting ready’ photos, preferring to focus on the ceremony and the more composed moments later in the day. So I kept things light, capturing a few candid images of the final touches. Her dress being fastened, a quiet moment with her mum, and a shared laugh with her bridesmaid.
A Hidden Gem in Leicester
The City Room is located right in Leicester city centre. It is a venue that truly impresses. Originally built in the late 18th century, the building has been carefully restored over a two-year period, preserving its historic features while modernising certain elements to make it an ideal setting for weddings and other grand events.
The Ballroom is the venue’s crown jewel. Kim had told me from the outset, “I just loved the Ballroom. I just knew I wanted my photos in that room.” And it was easy to see why. The room, bathed in natural light thanks to the enormous arched windows. Its decorated with glittering chandeliers, intricate cornicing, and polished wooden floors. On Kim and Mark’s wedding day, the room was dressed in simple but elegant winter décor, white floral arrangements with subtle hints of pine and silver, candles placed delicately around the perimeter, and a large Christmas tree in one corner that added seasonal warmth without overpowering the classic styling.
The City Rooms isn’t just about the Ballroom, though. The venue also features a stylish bar area, a refined dining room, and a beautifully restored drawing room each space offering a unique backdrop for different parts of the day. For photographers, this venue is a dream. Every corner offers another opportunity for creative shots, and the combination of period charm and soft lighting is simply unbeatable.
The Ceremony
The ceremony itself was held in the Ballroom, which had been reimagined for the occasion with chairs arranged neatly in rows and a modest floral arrangement at the front. As guests filed in, there was a hushed anticipation in the air. Mark stood waiting at the front, looking a perfect mix of pride and emotion. One little detail that stood out to me was how Kim had made beautiful flower arrangements to hang from the chairs sitting in cute furry white winter mittens.
Kim made her entrance with grace, her winter bridal gown flowing elegantly as she walked down the aisle to soft music. Her bouquet was understated, filled with white & Peach roses, with deep red flowers, eucalyptus, and frosted greenery perfect for the season. The ceremony was touching and intimate, with heartfelt vows and just the right amount of laughter and emotion. When they shared their first kiss as husband and wife all of the guests erupted in a huge cheer and applause.
Photo time
After the ceremony, guests made their way outside for the classic confetti shot. Despite the brisk air, there was plenty of laughter and celebration as petals rained down on the newlyweds. The City Rooms’ grand façade made a perfect backdrop for these fun moments.
But with the temperature dipping, it wasn’t long before everyone dashed back inside to warm up. We regrouped on the venue’s elegant staircase for the formal group photos.
Once the main group shots were done, it was time for the part of the day I always look forward to. The couple’s portraits. With The City Rooms providing such a rich array of backgrounds, we took our time exploring both inside and outside the venue. I captured Kim and Mark in quiet moments near the ballroom windows, silhouetted against the soft light. We also ventured briefly out into the surrounding streets of Leicester. A quirky nearby alleyway offered an urban contrast to the elegance of the venue ideal for some creative, fun shots.
As evening fell and the city lights began to glow, we made the most of Leicester’s Christmas decorations. The twinkling lights added a magical touch to our evening shots, with the newlyweds wrapped up warmly, sharing a quiet moment under a canopy of sparkling lights.
The Reception
Back inside in the warmth, the Ballroom had been transformed for the wedding breakfast and reception. Tables were adorned with delicate centrepieces, branches sprayed silver, candles in glass holders, and subtle winter themed accents. Whilst guests took their seats Mark & Kim had arranged for a pianist to play for them all, simply exquisite.
The wedding breakfast was filled with laughter, stories, and toasts. The speeches were heartfelt. Mark’s best man delivered just the right amount of humour, while both fathers shared touching anecdotes about the couple’s journey together.
As night deepened, the room sparkled even more. The chandeliers caught every flicker of candlelight, and the atmosphere grew even more intimate. The first dance, held under the grand lights of the ballroom, was beautifully choreographed just the two of them moving in sync, smiling at each other like no one else was in the room.
Guests joined the couple on the dance floor, and the night continued with great music, lots of dancing, and the kind of warm conversations that only happen when people are truly happy to be celebrating together.
Why Winter Weddings Are So Special?
Winter weddings might not be everyone’s first thought when it comes to planning, but Kim and Mark’s big day was a testament to how magical they can be. The cool weather naturally brings people closer together. The festive decorations, twinkling lights, and warm interiors make for a cosy, enchanting setting. And from a photographer’s point of view, the low, soft winter light creates a flattering, almost cinematic quality that’s hard to replicate in summer.
The City Rooms also lends itself particularly well to winter celebrations. Its grand interiors mean you’re never reliant on the weather. Whether it’s raining, snowing, or simply cold, the venue has enough beauty and variety indoors to provide a full, rich photographic story.
Final Reflections
Kim and Mark’s wedding at The City Rooms in Leicester was a beautiful, elegant, and joyful day from start to finish. From the first nervous glances to the sparkler exit at the end of the night, every moment was filled with meaning and beauty. It’s a celebration I won’t forget this wedding any time soon, and a perfect example of how a thoughtfully planned winter wedding can create lasting memories for everyone involved.
The blend of historic charm, seasonal elegance, and emotional warmth made this day stand out. Kim and Mark truly embraced the season, the venue, and each other and in doing so, they created a day that was not only beautiful to photograph but a privilege to be a part of.
~ Kim and Mark’s wedding photography at The City Rooms, Leicester, Leicestershire, was captured by Emma Lowe ~
To learn more, visit my Wedding Photographer Leicester page, showcasing many other weddings and wedding venues.