West Tower Country House Wedding Photography
Orlagh & Mike’s Lancashire wedding.
Last minute wedding photography at West Tower
Sometimes, the unexpected leads to the most unforgettable memories. That’s exactly what happened when I received an urgent call from West Tower Country House just 30 minutes before a wedding was due to start… needing a photographer
It wasn’t my wedding to photograph, but fate had other plans. Here is Orlagh and Mike’s “emergency” West Tower Country House wedding photography story.
Thanks, Wes for catching our most important day on a moment’s notice.
As a documentary wedding photographer based in Ormskirk, I’m no stranger to capturing moments as they unfold naturally. But this wedding was different. I was relaxing at home in my gym clothes when I got an emergency call from West Tower Country House. Their couple had been left without a wedding photographer, and the ceremony was set to begin in 40 minutes.
With no time to lose, I grabbed my cameras, and dashed to the venue. Thanks to being local in photographer based in Lancashire, I made it just in time. What followed was an unforgettable day filled with love, laughter, and beautiful moments.
Here is their story…



West Tower Country House Wedding Photography –
A Love Story 16 Years in the Making.
Hi, We are Orlagh and Mike and this is our West Tower Country House wedding photography story.
We met 16 years ago on holiday in Tenerife, surrounded by family and friends. Mike was from Manchester, and I’m from Belfast. It was one of those instant connections that only happens when the timing is just right. Over the years, our relationship blossomed, and after all this time, we knew we wanted our wedding day to be truly special.
When we stumbled upon West Tower Country House during a wedding open day, I instantly fell in love with this Lancashire wedding venue.
The charm of the elegant ballroom, the sweeping views, and the romantic pagoda took my breath away. We didn’t hesitate—we booked it almost immediately. We couldn’t imagine saying “I do” anywhere else.
The West Tower had our hearts…
The Big Day: A Mix of Chaos and Magic
Our spring wedding day was unforgettable, but not without its twists! After driving all the way from Manchester, Mike realised he’d forgotten his shoes. Panic set in until the incredible team at West Tower Country House stepped in and saved the day.
Just when we thought we could breathe, our photographer didn’t turn up. We were devastated until West Tower came to the rescue again, contacting Wes Simpson Weddings at the last minute. We were blown away when Wes arrived in a flash, cameras ready, and with a calming presence that reassured us everything would be okay.
The ceremony itself was emotional, but the most special moment was my dad, Tony, walking me down the aisle. He’d been in the hospital since the start of the year, and we weren’t sure if he’d make it. Seeing him there meant the world to us.
Another highlight from our West Tower Country House wedding was walking into the reception to 145 guests spinning napkins to Gerry Cinnamon, a moment we’ll never forget.
Celebrating with Our Dream Team of Suppliers
We were so lucky to work with a fantastic group of suppliers who made our West Tower Country House wedding day perfect:
- Live Lounge Duo kept everyone entertained all night.
- West Tower’s dedicated staff made everything run seamlessly.
- Keyhole Motors provided stunning wedding cars.
- Fabulous Rooms decorated the venue beautifully.
- Zanda Magic wowed guests throughout the evening.
- Vanilla Nova Cakes created a delicious and elegant cake.
- Picture Blast’s photo booth was a huge hit.
- Andrew Housey from St Michael’s Church in Aughton led a beautiful ceremony.
- Peggy Bridal Boutique in Holmfirth made me feel like a princess in my dress.
- Suit Culture in Bishop Auckland dressed Mike and the groomsmen to perfection.
Advice for Future Couples
Our advice to future couples is simple: Pack and plan the night before, and don’t stress—something will go wrong, but you’ll still be married at the end of the day. The day goes by so fast, so be sure to spend time together and soak it all in. You only get one shot at this—make the most of it!
Oh, and book Wes Simpson Weddings for your photography. Trust, reliability and great photos!
Orlagh & Mike.
Lasting Memories
“I was the happiest little girl having Daddy walk me down the aisle and even take his oxygen mask off to have his daughter dance! I still can’t believe you made it out of the hospital just in time for our wedding! I love you, Daddy, you’re so precious to me.” – Orlagh.
Moments like this are why I photograph weddings.
Plan Your West Tower Wedding with Wes Simpson Weddings
West Tower Country House offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable wedding in Lancashire. You can explore my blog to see more beautiful weddings at West Tower Country House and contact me today to capture the magic of your special day.
As a documentary wedding photographer based in Lancashire, I focus on telling your unique story, capturing genuine moments with artistry and emotion. If you’re planning a wedding at West Tower Country House or anywhere in Lancashire, I’d love to document your unforgettable day.
Visit my portfolio and learn how I can make your wedding memories last a lifetime. See my approach page and read how I can photograph your day. Contact me to check availability and reserve your date.



































































































