RACHAEL & MARK’S HIGH-ENERGY WEDDING AT THE EXCHANGE 1856: A CELEBRATION FULL OF HEART, STYLE AND SOUL
Some weddings are elegant and refined. Others are electric - full of energy, movement, and pure celebration. Rachael & Mark’s wedding at The Exchange 1856 was effortlessly both. From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere was buzzing, and it was clear this was going to be a day centred on joy, connection, and truly living in the moment.
Set within the historic walls of The Exchange 1856 in Newcastle, their wedding felt modern yet timeless. This iconic venue, with its industrial textures, natural light, and architectural character, provided the perfect backdrop for a celebration that didn’t take itself too seriously - but meant everything. The Exchange has a way of elevating a wedding without overpowering it, allowing the energy of the people inside to become the focus.
Rachael & Mark chose a half-day coverage, which suited their day perfectly. It allowed us to focus on the moments that mattered most to them - the emotion, the movement, the laughter, and the atmosphere - without interruption. Their gallery is a blend of digital and 35mm film photography, giving their memories both clarity and soul. Film added that soft, nostalgic texture - imperfect in the most beautiful way - while digital captured the pace, the party, and the full force of the celebration.
One of my favourite things about this wedding was the energy. From relaxed moments earlier in the day to a reception filled with dancing, cheers, and genuine joy, everything felt alive. This wasn’t a wedding where people stood on the sidelines - it was a room full of people fully present, celebrating Rachael & Mark with their whole hearts. Those are the weddings I love photographing most, where the images don’t just show what happened, but how it felt.
The styling was effortlessly cool and confident, perfectly complemented by an incredible team of suppliers who brought everything together seamlessly. Rachael looked stunning, with hair and makeup that felt polished yet natural, allowing her personality to shine through. Every detail worked in harmony with the venue and the mood of the day - nothing forced, nothing overdone, just beautifully considered.
As the day unfolded, The Exchange 1856 transformed into a space filled with music, movement, and that unmistakable feeling of celebration. These are the moments I’m always chasing - hands in the air, laughter mid-dance, fleeting glances between two people who know they’ve just had one of the best days of their lives.
Rachael & Mark’s wedding was a reminder that weddings don’t need to be long to be meaningful, and they don’t need excess to be unforgettable. When you bring together the right people, the right energy, and a space that allows you to be yourselves, the result is something truly special.
This gallery is a reflection of their day - bold, joyful, full of life, and captured in a way that feels timeless, honest, and completely them.
After reviewing the photos, Rachael and Mark shared their thoughts - you can check out their glowing feedback by clicking here.
Suppliers
Photographer: @aleman_santana_photography
Makeup Artist: @glammedbyiqra
Hair Stylist: @thestylingstudiox
Bridal Boutique: @mrswbridal
Venue: @theexchange1856 @theexchange.1856_weddings
