Bongos, Big Smiles & A Small Wedding at Leeds Civic Hall – Steven and Maria’s Relaxed Leeds Wedding Day
If you think small weddings can’t be full of personality, Steven and Maria’s day at Leeds Civic Hall proved the complete opposite. With just their closest family and friends around them, their wedding was relaxed, full of laughter, and had one very unexpected soundtrack.....bongos. Yes, actual bongos.
A small Leeds Civic Hall wedding with big smiles
Steven and Maria chose to keep things simple with an intimate ceremony at Leeds Civic Hall, a favourite place for any Leeds wedding photographer. It’s perfect if you want something meaningful without the huge guest list, and the atmosphere always feels really personal.
With only close family and friends there, the ceremony had that lovely warm feeling where everyone knows everyone, and you can just enjoy the moment without any pressure. Lots of smiles, a few happy tears, and plenty of laughs......lots of laughs with these two.
The ceremony… with added percussion
Maria's son Sam walked her down the aisle and just as the ceremony was about to start we suddenly heard music echoing through the Civic Hall and this was not the usual wedding music.
Turns out another wedding had just ended and they had brought along someone playing the bongos, and the sound travelled right through the building. Instead of it being awkward, everyone burst out laughing, including Steven and Maria, and it ended up being one of those moments that made the day even more memorable.
Honestly, you can’t plan moments like that, and sometimes they make the best stories.
After the ceremony, we headed outside for a wander around the Civic Hall area for some photos. The steps, the big stone columns, and the city centre backdrop always make a great setting, especially for smaller weddings where you can take your time and not feel rushed.
Steven and Maria were completely relaxed, happy to just have a stroll, chat with their guests, and enjoy the moment while we grabbed a mix of natural, fun, and a few family photos.
Food, drinks, and celebrations at Estabul Leeds
Once the photos were done, everyone headed over to Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill for food, drinks, and a proper celebration.
If you’ve never been, it’s a great choice for a wedding meal, loads of food, great atmosphere, and perfect for smaller groups who just want to relax together after the ceremony. No formalities, no stress, just good company and plenty of laughter.
Steven and Maria’s day was the perfect reminder that you don’t need a huge venue or hundreds of guests to have an amazing wedding. A lovely ceremony, your favourite people, a few photos around Leeds, a good meal, and a surprise bongo performance.
Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing.
If you're thinking of getting married at Leeds Civc Hall and looking for a Leeds wedding photographer then Click here to see what packages I have to offer.
