Owlpen Manor wedding in the Cotswolds
David and Natasha’s Vibrant Summer Wedding at Owlpen Manor in the Cotswolds
For couples searching for a unique and charming venue, Owlpen Manor in Gloucestershire offers a magical setting for weddings. As an Owlpen wedding photographer, I was thrilled to capture my first wedding at this stunning location—and what a day it was!
Dating back to the 15th century, Owlpen Manor is a beautifully preserved Tudor estate, surrounded by lush gardens and breathtaking views. The venue’s rich history and timeless charm make it the perfect backdrop for any celebration, and David and Natasha’s wedding was no exception.
The day began in the manor’s delightful bridal prep room, where Natasha and her maid of honour prepared for the day ahead. The room was filled with gorgeous natural light, a dream for any documentary wedding photographer. The air was full of excitement as Natasha slipped into her wedding dress, and there was a particularly emotional moment when her father, a former professional boxer, saw her for the first time in her wedding dress. His reaction, full of pride and emotion, was a touching start to the day and a reminder of the personal stories that make weddings so special.
Outdoor Ceremony with Handfasting Ritual
The ceremony took place outdoors, with the sun shining down on the couple as they exchanged vows in front of the grand manor house. Owlpen Manor’s lawns provided a picturesque setting, adding a natural elegance to the occasion. A steel pan band played the entrance music, creating a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
One of the most unique elements of David and Natasha’s ceremony was the traditional handfasting ritual. Brightly coloured ribbons were used to bind their hands together, symbolising the union of their lives. This moment of ancient tradition gave a beautiful and personal touch to the ceremony, something that will forever be cherished by both them and their guests.
Adding to the heartfelt nature of the ceremony, a remembrance candle was lit in honour of David’s late mother. It was a poignant tribute that brought an added layer of emotion to the day. As the couple exited the ceremony, they did so in style—leading their guests in a fun conga line down to the gardens.
Lawn Games and Golden Hour Portraits
The post-ceremony celebration was filled with laughter and playfulness. David and Natasha’s guests enjoyed a range of garden games, from limbo and croquet to bouncing around on space hoppers. The relaxed and informal atmosphere allowed everyone to let loose and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Owlpen Manor.
As a wedding photographer, capturing candid moments like these is a joy. The mix of natural light, scenic backdrops, and genuine laughter created a treasure trove of photo opportunities. But the real magic happened after the speeches.
Just as the sun began to set, we took advantage of the golden hour—that perfect moment when the light is soft and warm. I whisked David and Natasha away for some epic portraits by the wild swimming pond. The stillness of the water, framed by lush greenery, provided an idyllic scene. The couple even took a rowboat out on the pond, allowing me to capture some truly unforgettable aerial shots. Watching them glide across the water, framed by nature’s beauty, was one of the highlights of the day.
Speeches Filled with Laughter and Tears
The speeches were another standout part of the celebration. There was no shortage of humour as David and Natasha’s friends and family shared anecdotes and stories. The best man, unfortunately, couldn’t attend due to COVID, but that didn’t stop him from delivering his speech remotely, much to the amusement of the guests. Tears of laughter flowed freely, showing just how much love and joy surrounded this couple.
Party in the Barn: Music, Dancing, and Unforgettable Energy
The energy of the day carried seamlessly into the evening. As the night fell, the celebrations moved to the barn, where live music took centre stage. The dance floor was alive with energy, with uncles and aunts leading the charge as they danced the night away, letting their inhibitions go. As an Owlpen Manor wedding photographer, I couldn’t have asked for a more vibrant and joyful atmosphere to capture.
From the emotional moments to the fun-filled conga lines, from the golden-hour portraits to the lively party in the barn, David and Natasha’s wedding at Owlpen Manor was truly a day to remember. It was an honour to be a part of their celebration, and I can’t wait to return to this incredible venue for future weddings.
Some of my favourite photos from the day
Are you planning an Owlpen Manor wedding?
If you’re planning your special day at Owlpen Manor, I’d love to be a part of it. As an Owlpen wedding photographer, my goal is to capture the authentic moments that make your wedding day uniquely yours. From the first glance to the last dance, every detail matters—and I’m here to help you preserve those memories forever.
