Barnwedding

Claire & Jay - Manor House Hotel Wedding by Ben Winnington

More Cotswold wedding venues please!

I’ve known Claire for a little while as she runs a Children’s group which we attended with our daughter, and so I already knew all about her easy going nature and love of making other people joyful. However; Claire and Jay surprised everyone with their fun filled day, packed to the brim with hilarious tongue in cheek details, endless games and activities (for both kids and adults), and colourful decor (including tons of Lego). The thought and details that had gone into their day were astonishing, and the work which all of their suppliers had put in to create such a vibrant and energetic atmosphere shouldn’t go unmentioned.

Claire and Jay have both got families from previous relationships and it was evident that the focus of their day wasn’t purely the love they had for each other, but the overwhelming love and commitment that they both have towards all of the children and the two families becoming united. Every decision they had made for the wedding; they clearly had the children in mind, and that made for such a heartwarming and joy filled day!

The couple wed in the grounds of the stunning and traditionally English ‘Manor house Hotel’ in the heart of the Cotswolds. They had an outdoor wedding ceremony, where they had prepared personalised pledges to each other; which really showed their characters perfectly, and gave us such an insight into their relationship together. We also heard readings from Claire’s sister and Jays good friend, and their brother in Law sang during the ceremony, which again all added to the very personal touches which they included in their big day.

After lawn games, confetti, Lego workshops (yes, more Lego!) afternoon tea and lots of bubbles, the couple got the party started by treating their guests to yet another surprise…!

For months before the wedding, the couple had been to dance lessons to ‘wow’ their guests with a medley of all amazing songs which again, they executed with good humour and tons of love for each other. Kudos to both of them for putting on such a brave and creative first dance performance. We’ve never wanted to stay and dance with the guests as much as we did with Claire and Jay; as all of the children were having such a ball, and we got treated to an impromptu breakdance/flossing routine from Claire’s son, along with a Dance lesson from Jay’s Daughter.

Guys; your wedding was perfect and we couldn’t stop smiling the whole day. Your family is so wonderful and we wish you all every happiness together. I’m sure we will stay in touch.

Houw & Heather wedding 16.06.17 by Ben Winnington

A beautiful Friday. 

We've got to know Houw and Heather really well throughout this whole process and so it was an absolute joy and a privilege to be able to photograph their wedding day. 

We arrived at Heathers hotel room early to find the girls relaxing, chatting, laughing and being pampered; and already I felt like I was walking into a room full of old mates. The bridal party were all so welcoming, friendly and chatty, and I knew the day would be a blast. 

Ben left the girls to join the boys down the pub. (eager for a drink) 

The whole wedding party arrived at the beautiful Shustoke Farm Barn venue in true vintage style, filling out two VW camper vans. 

The rest of the day flowed beautifully, with plenty of laughs, tears, old friends, great food and wild dancing. Needless to say it was the perfect way to kick start our wedding season and we felt like we were guests with a huge group of friends all day long. 

We can't wish Houw and the beautiful Heather enough happiness as they start their lives as Mr & Mrs Ridley.

Thank you so much for having us. 

E + B