A Candlelit Industrial Wedding
with Sword Ceremony
This styled shoot explores how a candlelit industrial wedding can carry real power when it’s built around metal, craft, and intention. Set inside The Italian Mill at Derby Museum of Making, the creative team created a ceremony shaped by forged steel, shadow-heavy lighting, and the raw textures of an industrial space. Candlelight softened the edges, highlighting wirework, copper accents, and the dramatic use of light and shadow throughout the shoot.
Photos throughout from Doodah Photography
The Sword Ceremony Inspired by Viking Traditions
At the centre of the shoot is a symbolic sword ceremony designed by Ceremonies by Leni Robson. The ritual draws on Viking and Celtic ideas of oath-making – traditions where metal, courage, and responsibility played a vital role. The couple placed their hands together on the hilt of a handcrafted sword, bound with ribbons that held their promise in place.
“Start with meaning, not props. The sword (or any symbolic object) should tell your story, not just fit a theme.” – Leni told us.
In an industrial setting filled with steel and history, the ritual felt completely grounded. The forged blade, the woven ribbons, and the candlelight created a moment that was bold, honest, and deeply symbolic. Metal speaking to metal. Craft meeting craft.
Love the idea of a Viking Wedding? Check out our blog: A Viking Inspired Wedding in York
Industrial Shadows & Joseph Wright Lighting
The photography leaned into the intense contrasts used by Joseph Wright of Derby – the painter known for capturing the early industrial revolution through dramatic light and deep shadow. Doodah Photography used this technique to sculpt the ceremony space with pockets of brightness against atmospheric darkness.
One of the most striking images shows the couple silhouetted in front of Hidden / Derby – The Orrery, a contemporary reimagining of Wright’s A Philosopher Lecturing on the Orrery. The glowing mechanism behind them framed their outline and connected the shoot directly to Derby’s artistic heritage.
“Use light intentionally. Candlelight, shadows, and metallic accents create a powerful, romantic atmosphere.”
This approach turned the entire shoot into a study of illumination – candlelight on copper, shadows on steel, and emotion carved out by contrast.
Metalcraft, Industrial Details & firelight
Industrial styling
The styling was deliberately pared back, letting the venue’s atmosphere and the Orrery’s glow lead the way. Bee Sweet Occasions added a soft drape beside the ceremony area and placed candles that echoed the warm tones cast by the artwork. In this space, light became the décor.
A set of light-up LOVE letters introduced a playful brightness in contrast to the moody shadows. The result was simple, intentional, and centred on mood rather than props.
Leni’s tip: “Mix textures. Pair industrial spaces or metal elements with velvet, silk, and natural materials for depth and contrast.”
Forged Details
CRZyBest’s bouquet and coordinating button hole, fitted seamlessly into this world. Sculpted from copper wire, beads, and metal dragons, it blurred the line between florals and artwork. Forged rings by Invictus Rings continued the theme of craft and metalwork.
These details turned the candlelit industrial setting into a place of warmth and intention. Steel, firelight, copper, and shadow created a layered visual story.
Love the idea of an alternative bouquet? Check out our blog: Choosing an Alternative Wedding Bouquet
Fashion, Beauty & light
Ashleigh Richards Bridal Barn provided a sculptural gown with a molten-metal shimmer that responded beautifully to candlelight. Its movement added softness to the firmness of the industrial surroundings.
Brigdens styled the groom in navy with burnt orange accents, reflecting both the metallic tones and the warmth of the candles.
Hair by Killer Contourz brought structured waves with strength and shape. Makeup by Life of a Beauty Girl stayed bold and clean to hold its own in dramatic lighting.
Together, the looks offered a balance of elegance, edge, and industrial romance.
supplier dream team
Photography: Doodah Photography
Celebrant: Ceremonies by Leni Robson
Styling: Bee Sweet Occasions
Venue: The Italian Mill, Museum of Making Derby Museums
Hair: Killer Contourz
Suit: Brigdens
Dress: Ashleigh Richards Bridal Barn
Linen: Luxury Linen Hire
Rings: Invictus Rings
Bouquet & Buttonholes: CRZyBest
