Nestled in fairytale gardens, in the idyllic countryside of the Cotswolds, Lauren and James' hosted their dream country house wedding. Our real wedding couple embraced every enchanting element of their surrounds from the blossoming grounds to the elegant and chic house. The evening took place under a majestic marquee, styled with soft touches, twinkling lights and neutral tones. If you're in search of an elegant wedding day with stylish rustic details, then look no further than Chloe Caldwell's imagery below!
Lauren and James, our London lovebirds were first introduced through a dating app - which they remain very thankful for to this day. As for the proposal tale, they chose to keep that as their own secret, but assure us it was low-key and absolutely perfect! The couple invited 110 of their nearest and dearest to celebrate their June wedding day and as you will see it is full to the brim of elegant style and sweet decor!
Swit-swoo! With light blue accessories, a crisp white rose buttonhole, and a dark blue tuxedo, James the dashing groom looked the part alongside his groomsmen.
As for the breathtaking bride, Lauren chose a Halfpenny London satin halterneck wedding gown. Minimal and perfect in every way! Complementing her style, she styled her hair naturally with loose curls, radiant makeup and diamond drop earrings. Finishing with the florals, she opted for a neutral colour palette with ivory and blush flowers and subtle touches of eucalyptus.
I Carry Your Heart by E.E. Cummings was the newlywed's favourite ceremony reading - a beautifully romantic choice, and one of our favourties too!
We love a celebratory confetti shot! James and Lauren showed how much they appreciated their loved ones making the journey to the Cotswolds by placing small gifts in guests' rooms to welcome them the evening before, while the wedding party were given personal letters, flowers and champagne in the honeymoon suite. "Every small detail was just perfect! We both agree there is nothing more special than getting ready in the morning as the anticipation and excitement builds, knowing you have the full support of your closest ones around you and a full day of joy and happiness ahead," they say.
Describing the overall vibe of their country house wedding, the couple said "quintessentially British!" Family means everything to Lauren and James, and they wanted to capture the essence of a fun family get-together on a beautiful summer's day. "As well as this, the grandeur of the house, coupled with the stunning gardens and beautiful blush pink and white floral arrangements created a real element of gentle elegance and class – or at least we hope!" they add. We have to say, mission accomplished.
The Cotswolds venue, that stole their hearts was Barnsley House. Described as an ultra-chic and immensely relaxing retreat set in a picturesque honey-stone village, the couple reveal what made the venue the one: "Everything! The rural setting, the stunning gardens, the historic charm of the house itself and of course all the wonderful people at Barnsley House! They’re truly a delight to be around and we had so much fun getting to know them all. Barnsley House has an understated elegance which we simply adore."
The drinks reception took place in the gardens, as the day was perfectly sunny. As for the cake - there were two. A cheese wheel cake, made up of a selection of different cheeses and accompaniments for the guests to nibble on before the evening reception. And for afters, a picture-perfect naked wedding cake, stood in all its glory overlooking the fairytale pond and gardens - the most romantic spot to cut the cake.
For their honeymoon the happy couple chose a mini moon in the UK directly after the wedding, and later jetted off to the romantic greek island of Santorini. "Definitely get away after your big day! You need that time to wind down, digest everything with your new partner and remember all the small snippets of the day. You’ll spend the whole time speaking about nothing else! We were very lucky and did a mini UK break straight after our wedding weekend to Gara Rock in Salcombe and it was fabulous! A perfect mix of pub walks and lazy afternoons in the hot tub overlooking the rustic Devon coast with lots of scrummy food. Later in the year we stayed in the Canavas Oia Epitome, truly luxurious and the perfect escape to have time just the two of us after a busy summer – 10/10 would recommend it!"
The evening reception took place in a marquee full of twinkling festoon lights, neutral ecru tapered candles placed in antique holders, along with fresh garden flowers. We love the unique theme of a deck of cards seen throughout the table plan and table numbers! Lots of Instagram research and teh creativity of Lauren’s talented mother added to the aesthetic inspiration!
As the sun set over the country house, it was time for James and Lauren to share their first dance as husband and wife. They chose There will be Time by Mumford & Sons. And lastly, the couple share some great advice: "Don’t sweat the small stuff and enjoy it. It only (hopefully!) happens once, so take it all in, give everyone big hugs and have the best time!"
A very special thank you to the lovely couple and Chloe Caldwell Photography for sharing their country house wedding in the Cotwolds with One Fab Day.
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