Jo & Phil: A Sun-Soaked Celebration in Sale, Greater Manchester
As a wedding photographer in Sale, Greater Manchester, I’ve been lucky enough to witness some truly memorable days, but Joanna and Phil’s wedding was something special from start to finish.
With temperatures in my hometown soaring to nearly 90 degrees (it turned out to be the hottest day of 2025 so far) the love between this couple shone just as brightly as the sun.
Close-up of Joannas ivory shoes with beautiful detailing
Jo and Phil’s big day was full of heartfelt moments, family bonds, and a touch of vintage charm, all unfolding across some of my favourite local wedding venues right here in Sale.
The day began with bridal prep at Jo’s home, where excitement buzzed through the air like electricity. Surrounded by her four bridesmaids, including her daughter Annalise, Jo looked every bit the classic bride.
Wearing a stunning white dress with a flowing train, complete with delicate flora detailing, her veil shimmered in the sun.
To finish the classic look, a tiara sat perfectly atop her bridal hair, and her ivory shoes, finished with diamanté detailing, completed the look.
Close-up of Jo’s classic wedding dress complete with floral detailing
Meanwhile, across town, Phil was getting ready at a very plush AirBnB, taking a quiet moment to himself before the day kicked off. Dressed in a sharp grey suit, his pastel tie was locked in with a beautifully done Windsor knot, a skill he’d mastered especially for the occasion.
But it was Phil’s finishing touches that made his outfit truly meaningful, details including a pocket watch and match book chain that had belonged to his late father.
Phil’s brother Neil was on hand to carefully help him attach his buttonhole. And a hip flask, filled with a tot of whisky, added just the right dose of tradition and nerve-settling charm.
Phil looks out from his AirBnB accommodation as he prepares for his big day
The ceremony took place at the grand Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in Sale.
Nestled just outside Sale town centre, Saint Josephs is a beautiful church, full of character.
As Jo’s father Gunther walked her down the aisle, the emotion in the room was palpable and this stunning church, with its beautiful light and soaring ceilings, provided the perfect setting for vows that had everyone holding back tears.
Jo, wearing a long white gown with a veil and tiara, walking down the aisle at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in Sale with her father, Gunther.
Following a joyful confetti-filled exit our bride and groom climbed into their vintage aqua-and-white VW Camper Van. A short journey later they arrived at Walkden Gardens, known as the ‘hidden gem’ of Sale, where the happy couple had a moment for themselves and I captured some beautiful couple portraits too.
Despite the heat, Jo and Phil strolled through the gardens with big smiles and even bigger hearts. It was a lovely pause in the middle of a whirlwind day.
Newlyweds Jo and Phil walking through a joyful confetti guard of honour, surrounded by family, friends and local well-wishers.
Having photographed many weddings in my home town of Sale, I’m no longer surprised by just how many well wishes come from strangers who are passing by. But it still doesn’t fail to make me smile.
Jo and Phil had loads of people congratulating them, the people of Sale were really pleased for this lovely couple they’d never met before. Exactly the reason why local weddings are so heart warming.
Phil and Jo stroll hand in hand past the Dovecote of Walkden Gardens in Sale, Greater Manchester.
The reception at Sale Conservative Club was packed with warmth and personality. From start to finish, the room buzzed with energy, laughter, and plenty of cold drinks to keep everyone cool.
One of the standout moments was a speech from Phil’s son, Jake. Full of heartfelt words and cheeky humour it had the perfect balance to bring the room to tears, before bringing them right back to laughter again.
As the evening rolled on, we captured some beautiful family shots, and a brilliant one of the whole wedding party cheering the happy couple, arms aloft, on the venues decking.
Group photo of Jo, Phil, their bridesmaids, family, and friends all cheering with hands in the air outside the Sale Conservative Club
The dance floor filled as Jo and Phil shared their first dance. As their song ended, they fell into each others arms in an emotional hug. Friends and family surrounded them and started applauding.
It was special moment and a real privilege to capture an image that says everything about the love for this couple..
Jo and Phil hugging on the dance floor surrounded by applauding friends and family during the evening reception at the Sale Conservative Club.
Weddings like Jo and Phil’s are a joy to capture. Full of meaning, packed with personal touches, and set in familiar surroundings that hold so much heart. Photographing a wedding in Sale is a real honour as it means I get to tell local love stories that are filled with community, laughter, and real connection.
Thank you so much Joanna and Phil for letting me be part of such a beautiful day. I hope this sneak peek brings all those incredible memories flooding back. And from my family to yours, we wish you an amazing life full of joy, love and laughter.
Dave
