Kent Wedding Photographer at Salomons Estate - Kent
A Sunny April Wedding at Salomons Estate | Summer & Luke's Big Day in Tunbridge Wells, Kent - photographed by Matt Rock Photography
It’s always lovely to work with fun, relaxed and friendly couples. Summer and Luke and their wedding guests were well and truly in this category. They just wanted to enjoy their special wedding day without any dramas which is just how I like it. Take a look at their wedding. You might get some good ideas for your own big day and if you want to get in touch with me -
Just send me an enquiry here:
There’s something truly magical about a spring wedding, and Summer and Luke’s April celebration at Salomons Estate in Southborough, Tunbridge Wells was no exception. Blessed with golden sunshine all day, their wedding was the perfect combination of relaxed elegance, joyful moments, and timeless romance. As a Kent wedding photographer, I’m lucky enough to visit some truly stunning venues, and Salomons Estate remains one of my absolute favourites and i’m lucky to be one of their main recommended suppliers.
Nestled in the Kent countryside just outside the centre of Royal Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate is known for its mix of historic grandeur and peaceful gardens. The stately mansion, sweeping lawns, and woodland paths offer so many beautiful backdrops for photography. It’s the kind of venue that feels impressive without ever being stuffy – ideal for couples who want their day to feel both special and laid-back.
Getting Ready in Style
The day started with bridal prep in one of Salomons Estate’s elegant suites, where Summer and her bridesmaids were full of laughter and anticipation. The atmosphere was relaxed but buzzing with excitement. Natural light poured in through the windows, perfect for capturing those soft, candid moments – makeup being applied, dresses being zipped up, and of course, Summer stepping into her stunning wedding dress.
Meanwhile, Luke and his groomsmen were just across the estate getting suited up, sharing drinks and stories, and making the most of the calm before the ceremony. One of the best things about Salomons is that everything happens in one place, so there’s no need to stress about travel, getting lost or being late – it’s all there on site, which makes for a beautifully flowing day.
Even the dogs were on time.
An Emotional Out Door Ceremony On The Lawn
The ceremony took place outside on the south facing lawn – with views across the grounds. It’s one of Salomons’ lovely spaces, and it provided a truly romantic setting for Summer and Luke to exchange vows. They even had their dogs at the ceremony and they behaved perfectly too. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house as they were married to one another in front of friends and family.
From a wedding photographers perspective, I can confirm the outside space is an ideal place to photograph any wedding.
Golden Hour in the Gardens
After the ceremony, guests spilled out onto the terrace for drinks and canapés under the spring sunshine. This part of the day is always one of my favourites – the tension of the ceremony is over, and everyone is ready to celebrate. I worked in the background capturing candid documentary-style shots of laughter, hugs, and champagne toasts.
For couple portraits, we took a gentle stroll around the gardens and grounds. With the April flowers blooming, and the sun shining, perfect for natural, romantic portraits. Summer and Luke were a dream to photograph – relaxed, playful, and totally caught up in the moment with each other.
A Joyful Reception
The wedding breakfast and speeches took place in the Drawing Room, another of Salomons Estate’s beautiful reception spaces. With its grand windows, ornate fireplaces, and views over the gardens, it created a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The speeches were a fantastic mix of hilarious and heartfelt – the kind that makes for amazing photo moments. From teary thank-yous to roaring laughter, the energy in the room was just brilliant. As a documentary wedding photographer, I love capturing the in-between moments: the reactions, the glances, the emotion.
As the sun began to set over Salomons’ sprawling grounds, Summer and Luke shared their first dance in the Theatre under the glow of fairy lights.
Since this wedding, if someone asks me my opinion on what to choose at Salomons Estate for your wedding breakfast, my answer is locked in:
Go for the carve-your-own carvery. No question.
It’s interactive, it’s delicious, and let’s be honest… anything that involves guests wielding carving knives in formalwear is already a win.
10/10 would carve again 🍖✨ #WeddingBreakfastGoals #CarveryForTheWin
A Perfect Kent Wedding Day at Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Summer and Luke’s wedding at Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells was an absolute joy to photograph. The venue is a dream, the weather couldn’t have been better, and the couple’s connection was beautiful to witness. Whether you’re planning a spring wedding or simply looking for a stunning Kent venue, Salomons Estate offers everything you could want – breathtaking views, elegant ceremony spaces, and a warm, welcoming feel throughout.
If you're planning your wedding at Salomons Estate or anywhere in Kent, I'd love to hear about your plans. I specialise in natural wedding photography with a relaxed, documentary approach, capturing real moments and creative portraits without any awkward posing. Let’s create something beautiful together.
Suppliers were:
Venue - @salomonsestate_weddings
Photography - Me - @mattrockprophoto - 07970668592
Wedding Dress - @confettiandlacebridal
Suits - @slatermenswear
Rings - @fraserhartuk
Flowers - @kathrinecherry_designs
DJ - @mintdjs.co.uk