From a Photographer’s Perspective: Insights from My Own Wedding Planning Journey
The Charm of the Cotswolds
If you're dreaming of a picturesque wedding, the Cotswolds might just be the perfect destination for your special day and I am here to tell you everything you need to know about weddings in the Cotswolds. As a photographer who has had the privilege of capturing countless weddings here, who also had my own wedding in the Cotswolds and grew up in the heart of this beautiful region, I'm excited to share everything you need to know about planning your wedding here and find the perfect Cotswolds wedding venues.
The Cotswolds, with its rolling hills, charming villages, and historic architecture, offers a fairy-tale setting for weddings. The region is renowned for its honey-colored stone buildings, lush gardens, and scenic countryside, providing an idyllic backdrop for your big day.
Choosing the Perfect Venue
The Cotswolds boasts a variety of wedding venues, and when hunting for wedding venues myself, I was overwhelmed by the choice. From elegant manor houses and rustic barns to quaint inns and beautiful gardens, here were some of my favorite standout options:
Old Gore Barn: offers a rustic yet charming wedding venue with picturesque yard space and a historic barn, ideal for couples seeking countryside tranquility and vintage charm.
Website: Old Gore Barn
Barnsley House: Known for its exquisite gardens and luxurious accommodations, this venue offers a romantic and intimate setting.
Website: Barnsley House
Cripps Barn: A charming, rustic barn combining countryside charm and modern amenities.
Website: Cripps Barn
The Slaughters Manor House: This 17th-century manor house exudes elegance and sophistication, perfect for a classic wedding.
Website: The Slaughters Manor House
Stone Barn: An atmospheric barn with a beautiful courtyard, perfect for those seeking a rustic yet chic vibe.
Website: Stone Barn
Euridge Manor: A magical venue with stunning gardens, water features, and a picturesque boathouse, ideal for a fairy-tale wedding.
Website: Euridge Manor
Cornwell Manor: A grand estate with beautiful gardens and a historic manor house, offering a timeless and elegant backdrop.
Website: Cornwell Manor
Lucknam Park: A luxurious country house hotel with extensive grounds, perfect for a lavish and sophisticated celebration.
Website: Lucknam Park
Daylesford: Hosting beautiful wedding receptions in various spaces including The Fountain Courtyard, The Glass House, and The Trough at its flagship location
Website: Daylesford
Elmore Court: A historic house with a modern reception venue, combining the best of both worlds for a memorable wedding.
Website: Elmore Court
Primrose Hill Farm: A versatile venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for a countryside wedding —a personal favorite as it was the venue we chose for our own wedding.
Website: Primrose Hill Farm
Best Time of Year
The Cotswolds is beautiful year-round, but each season brings its own charm. Growing up on a farm, I saw the seasons change and the beauty in each. When thinking about a wedding and the different backdrops you will have depending on the season, consider these things:
Spring: Blossoming flowers and lush greenery make for vibrant photos.
Summer: Warm weather and long days are ideal for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
Autumn: The landscape transforms with stunning fall colors, creating a cozy, romantic atmosphere.
Winter: A winter wedding in the Cotswolds can be magical, especially if you're lucky enough to have a dusting of snow.
Capturing the Cotswolds Magic
As a photographer, I could go on and on about the abundance of incredible photo opportunities in the Cotswolds. Here are some tips for making the most of your wedding photos:
Golden Hour: The soft, golden light just before sunset is perfect for capturing romantic, ethereal photos.
Scenic Spots: Take advantage of the beautiful landscapes. Fields, gardens, and historic buildings make for stunning backdrops. Whether you stay on-site at your wedding venue or we hop in the car to a nearby field or village, there are countless picturesque spots.
Weather Considerations: The Cotswolds can be unpredictable, so have a backup plan for rainy days. Indoor venues or marquee tents can save the day. Many of the wedding venues have beautiful interiors, so we can explore the hidden corners of your venue to find the perfect spot for some photos.
Local Vendors
The Cotswolds is home to many talented wedding vendors, from florists and caterers to musicians and planners. When you inquire with me, I have an abundance of suppliers I have worked with. If you are ever stuck for choice, please let me know, and I can send you a list to choose from.
Accommodation for Guests
The Cotswolds offers a range of accommodation options for your guests, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels. Consider booking a block of rooms at a local inn or suggesting a few nearby options for your guests.
Bibury Farm Barns, a Cotswold favourite where the whole wedding party to stay
Final Thoughts
A wedding in the Cotswolds is a dream come true for many couples. With its breathtaking scenery, historic charm, and exceptional venues, it's no wonder this region is a favorite among brides and grooms. As a photographer, I love capturing the magic of Cotswold weddings, and the opportunity to return home and stay with my family the night before your wedding is a treat in itself. If you're considering the Cotswolds for your wedding, I can't recommend it enough – it's truly a place of its own and like no other.
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