James & Patrick at Trafalgar Tavern, Greenwich

James and Patrick’s wedding at Trafalgar Tavern in Greenwich was one of those days that just worked from start to finish. The venue sits right on the Thames, with huge windows looking out over the river, which makes it perfect for relaxed wedding photography without needing complicated lighting or staged moments.

They wanted the day to feel informal and fun rather than overly traditional, which suits Trafalgar Tavern perfectly. It has the character of a historic riverside pub but still feels like a proper London wedding venue. Guests could step outside onto the terrace for views across the Thames while the celebrations carried on inside. The whole day had a laid-back energy. No over-scheduling, no awkward posing, just friends, family and a lot of laughter.

One of the great things about Trafalgar Tavern is how easy it is for portraits. The Thames, the riverside walkways and the historic streets of Greenwich all sit right outside the venue.

We stepped out for a short wander along the river for a few relaxed portraits of James and Patrick. Nothing staged or overly directed - just a few minutes away from the crowd while the light over the Thames did most of the work.

It’s always nice when couples can slip away briefly without disappearing for half an hour.

Back inside the Trafalgar Tavern, the reception quickly turned into a proper celebration. The space has a great atmosphere once it fills with guests, with the river views giving the whole room a unique London backdrop.

Speeches were warm, funny and occasionally slightly chaotic - exactly how good wedding speeches should be. Laughter carried across the room more than once.

The relaxed approach to the day meant people could move between the terrace and the reception room easily, creating a really social atmosphere.

The ceremony itself was simple, heartfelt and full of personality. James and Patrick kept the focus on what mattered most to them: sharing the moment with their closest friends and family.

One of the things that stood out throughout the ceremony was how natural everything felt. There was no sense of performance or formality beyond what was needed. Just two people making a commitment to each other with the people who matter most in the room.

Those are often the weddings that photograph best. When couples feel comfortable and present in the moment, the emotions show naturally.

As the evening continued, the atmosphere shifted into full celebration mode. Music, drinks and a lot of dancing took over the space.

Trafalgar Tavern works particularly well for this part of the day because it already has the feel of a lively pub. By the time the evening got going, it felt less like a formal wedding reception and more like a great night out with everyone you care about in one place.

Exactly what most couples hope for.

James and Patrick’s Trafalgar Tavern wedding is a great example of how relaxed London weddings can be. With the right venue and the right people around you, the day doesn’t need to be complicated.

If you’re planning a wedding in Greenwich or at Trafalgar Tavern and want photography that captures the day as it actually happens, documentary coverage is often the best approach. No awkward posing. No turning the day into a photoshoot. Just honest moments and a lot of good memories.