Today’s styled shoot is all elegance and luxury, with minimalist styling touches focusing on quality. Sent in by a group of talented wedding suppliers in Oxford, this is all kinds of gorgeous and I hope you love it too! Images are by Nicola Belson Photography, and the wording below is from Nicola too. As always, there’s lots more to see on @englishweddingblog!
The iconic Randolph Hotel, steeped in centuries-old grandeur, has recently emerged from the ashes of fire damage with a fresh, contemporary spirit. This juxtaposition of old and new provided the perfect canvas to stage a wedding shoot embodying a tropical luxe aesthetic — a seamless blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.
The synergy of rebirth and renewal was not just in the venue but also in the stories of the talented suppliers who brought this vision to life. Each one had left behind successful careers in diverse fields to pursue their passion in the wedding industry, driven by a love for creativity and a desire to be part of life’s most joyous celebrations.
This shoot was more than just a display of beautiful designs; it was a testament to the power of following one’s heart and reinventing oneself. Their collective journey from old careers to new passions mirrored the hotel’s own transformation, adding a deeper layer of meaning to the shoot.
Venue – The Randolph Hotel, Oxford
Planner – Acorn and Oak Weddings & Events
Photographer – Nicola Belson Photography
Videographer – Twenty Two Moments
Florist – Kate Wren Flowers
Dresses – Pronovias from The Bridal Box
Hair – Rachael Capocci
Makeup – Abigail Maynard Makeup
Cakes – Lisa Adams Cakes
Jewellery – Jen Gilbert Bridal
Stationery – Your Perfect Invite
Harpist – Noa Davies Harpist
Tableware – Wren Ark
Napkins – Laurel House Designs
Champagne tower – Elegant Events of Staffordshire
Models – Danielle and Craig
Styling elements were kept simple yet sophisticated, with monogramed napkins, monochrome stationery and rich velvet bows illuminated by candle light adding a touch of understated luxury.
This minimalist approach allowed the inherent beauty of each detail to shine, creating an atmosphere of effortless elegance.
Our choice of florals played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life. A lush array of dark green tropical leaves paired with the pristine beauty of white orchids, lilies, and roses gave a sense of luxurious minimalism, where each element was thoughtfully chosen to enhance the overall aesthetic without overwhelming it. The greenery provided a lush backdrop, while the white blooms added a touch of refined elegance.
The wedding attire was carefully selected to complement our theme. The day dress was a picture of simplicity and grace, embodying effortless elegance with clean lines and a modern, sultry silhouette. For the evening, we introduced a playful twist with a short, playful sparkly dress that featured customisable elements, allowing for a dynamic transition as the celebration moved from day to night. This versatility highlighted the modern bride’s desire for both timeless beauty and contemporary flair and the growing trend of second dresses.
In essence, this shoot was about celebrating new beginnings – the rebirth of a historic venue, the reinvention of our creative partners, and the timeless beauty of love, all wrapped in the lush, elegant aesthetic of tropical luxe.
We invite couples to draw inspiration from this shoot, knowing that their love story, like The Randolph, is a beautiful blend of history and modernity, tradition and innovation, old and new.
A glorious styled shoot full of vibrant colour that says: be you. The couple in this stunning photoshoot are Jay & Sam, who inspire us with their thoughtful insta posts and their beautiful, brave and curious / adventurous outlook on life. The Stranger Things inspired cassette tape place names and 80s nostalgia in these images are fabulous and we’d love to see more of this at weddings! The cake is a real talking point – what better nod to the Upside Down could there possibly be?!
With amazing photos by lovely Hannah Hall Photography.
At Huntsmill Farm we are known for our 18th-century stone barn on our family farm, with rustic timber fences, and steel storage units. To create a contrast to our background, we created the styled shoot ‘Love is Strange’ heavily inspired by the hit TV show, Stranger Things. The concept was to create an ‘80s-themed editorial shoot, with a brief to include dark, moody elements.
We worked with stylist The White Emporium with the brief to create a dark, moody, theme with ‘80s elements, alongside photographer Hannah Hall Photography and videographer Gina Fernandes Photography.
When it came to a colour scheme, we wanted to focus our shoot around the Pantone colour of the year – Viva Magenta. We used this colour throughout our styling, and to complement this and the Stranger Things theme we also incorporated darker shades of black, purple, and navy, alongside highlights of pinks, oranges, and reds.
Our styling involved a lot of ‘80s-inspired décor, from disco balls to Walkmans, boomboxes and vintage cameras. The venue was decorated with a neon sign from Stardust Events and colourful lighting, alongside a rustic set up with a rattan table and chair set.
Our stationery took inspiration from Stranger Things, using the font and colours, designed by Peach Wolfe. The stationery was created with a bold colour scheme and incorporated the ‘80s elements such as cassette tapes as placenames.
The tablescape was set under a canopy of hanging disco balls, draped with dark fabric. The table itself was laid with draping fabric, and Wren Ark provided the tableware, a mix of blue, red, and black glassware. Jade Flower Boutique created the floral arrangements, incorporating the colour scheme and viva magenta Pantone colour within the flowers.
When it came to the cake, we wanted to play on the Stranger Things theme and create an upside down cake. J Bakes Cakes designed a bespoke upside-down black cake with various textures to complement the theme, adorned with disco balls and pink and red flowers from Jade Flower Boutique.
Our models Jay and Sam from Pulse is Racing wore outfits from ASOS incorporating the ‘80s theme and our colour scheme. We decided to feature a real same-sex male couple for our concept to represent the LGBTQI+ community in a true, authentic way, and to show that love is for everyone.
Credits
Venue and concept: Huntsmill Farm
Photography: Hannah Hall Photography
Videography: Gina Fernandes Photography
Styling: The White Emporium
Neon sign: Stardust Events
Flowers: Jade Flower Boutique
Stationery: Peach Wolfe
Catering: Portfolio Events
Tableware: Wren Ark
Cake: J Bakes Cakes
Models: Pulse is Racing
Outfits: ASOS
Guest article by lovely Mel at Your Story Events
One wedding trend that has been catching everyone’s attention is the enchanting and captivating, bohemian wedding theme. Filled with fresh flowers, draping décor and pretty palettes, no wonder it’s a popular choice. If you perfect this theme, you can easily be transported into a charming fairy-tale that you’ll never want to leave. But where do you start? That’s where I can help with my top tips below…
Consider an outdoor ceremony and alfresco dining
Boho is inspired by all things nature.
To achieve this look, ideally you need to be as close to the outside world as possible. By hosting part of your wedding, or even all of it, outdoors will allow you to create a natural backdrop for your whole day. Think along the lines of an intimate ceremony in a secluded woodland, rolling meadows or a beautiful orchard – perfect, right?
If the weather behaves itself, then you could even dine outside too. But I always recommend having a backup plan, just in case!
This breath-taking venue is Crockwell Farm, set in the gorgeous Northamptonshire countryside. I chose this spot for its luscious landscape, stunning statement trees and hidden pathways which all together created a magical secret garden feel – ideal for a Boho wedding.
Transform your tableware
I would recommend using authentic textures where possible. Rustic wooden tables and chairs are not only cleverly crafted, they’re available in so many different designs. As you can see from the images, they also subtly blend into your surroundings.
Natural and raw materials that have an earthy colour palette, such as woods and metals, are ideal for your Boho theme. Pick different shades to add extra-depth, or add bold pops of colour, with your glassware, cutlery, napkins or flowers.
Add some macramé styling
Macramé is a playful, and completely on trend, twist to traditional décor, as well as being extremely versatile throughout your styling.
The use of natural materials, neutral colours and the intricate detail (all produced by hand), enhances the Boho aspect. You can choose between big statement pieces such as a macramé ceremony backdrop, which can be moved during the day, or use small accents to catch your guests’ attention with napkin holders, place settings or a unique cake wrap.
These macramé wedding accessories are from Eadie & Lola, a small family business who can create bespoke pieces to buy.
Flowers, flowers, flowers
An abundance of wild flowers and gorgeous meadow arrangements is a must for the bohemian theme.
Not only will they help frame your ceremony, tableware and photo backgrounds, their scent alone will fill you with calm, which you want on your big day. Softer shades suit this theme beautifully, but you can pick flowers that’ll match your colour palette. Don’t forget about the lush green foliage too!
Create depth with different flower heights – allowing flowers to stand tall or drape down to the floor.
You can even add additional detail with splashes of bright blossoms. Basically, when it comes to Boho, you can’t have too many flowers!
I used these stunning arrangements, created by Hibiscus Floral Design, which just sat perfectly within this shoot.
Relax your wedding look
Natural and effortless is your main aim with the bohemian wedding theme, and that stems to your hair, makeup and outfits too.
Opt for looser hair styles, with delicate detail such as dainty headdresses, tousled braids and soft, dewy makeup. Ball gowns and red carpet glam won’t quite fit this look, and that’s why we picked a more intricate lace design for our Boho wedding dress.
The bespoke, trailing veil by Visionary Veils in particular, fits the whimsical and beautiful vibe we intended; tying together our Boho features within the tableware and overall setting.
The dress here is from Love Spell Designs, who have a fabulous selection of dresses to lust after.
Style it with stationery
With any wedding theme, I tend to encourage incorporating that within your invites, to give your guests a little teaser of what to expect.
With the bohemian theme, flowers were an obvious go-to, and as you can see, I’ve added that detail, and matched the colour theme, within our wedding stationery from Star Char Weddings. I also love the idea of using handmade paper for that optimum rustic feel.
If you are in need of help designing and planning your romantic Boho wedding, then get in touch with Mel on hello@yourstoryevents.co.uk.
Image credits – Crockwell Farm wedding suppliers
Planning/ Design: Your Story Events www.yourstoryevents.co.uk
Photographer: Ellie Mac Photography www.elliemacphotography.com
Florist: Hibiscus Floral Design www.hibiscusfloraldesign.co.uk
MUA/ Hair: Jessica Nurse www.makeupmyweddingday.com
Cake maker: Caked by Jessica www.cakedbyjessica.com
Macrame Styling: eadie and Lola www.etsy.com/uk/shop/EadieandLolaMacrame
Venue: Crockwell Farm www.crockwellfarm.co.uk
Stationery: Charlotte Lyes www.starchar.co.uk
Dresses: Love Spell Design www.lovespelldesign.com
Bride footwear: Emmy London www.emmylondon.com
Hair Accessories and earrings: Garter and Veil www.garterandveil.com
Veil: Visionary Veils https://visionaryveils.co.uk
Wedding rings: Rings with Grace www.ringswithgrace.com
Groom Suit and footwear: Model’s own
Tableware: Wren Ark https://wrenark.com/
Table runner and napkins: Silken Ribbons hellosilkenribbons@gmail.com
Bridal robe: Jessica Hollie Gifts www.jessicaholliegifts.etsy.com
Models: Kirsty Schneider and partner Jack
On the day assistant: Lauren martin
Your Story Events is an English Wedding member
Web: https://www.yourstoryevents.co.uk
The most beautiful whimsical florals you ever did see, and a beautifully styled summer wedding scene for you today! This romantic inspiration is from lovely Mel at Your Story Events. Collaborating with an amazingly talented team of Crockwell Farm wedding suppliers, Mel brought together this beauty of a styled shoot to inspire your summer weddings! The florals are breathtaking; the styling touches are so carefully and thoughtfully curated… and our model bride and groom Kirstie and Jack are just fabulously gorgeous and adorable together! I’m delighted to be able to say Your Story Events is an English Wedding member. You’ll find all the talented suppliers featured today listed below.
Planning/ Design: Your Story Events www.yourstoryevents.co.uk
Photographer: Ellie Mac Photography www.elliemacphotography.com
Florist: Hibiscus Floral Design www.hibiscusfloraldesign.co.uk
MUA/ Hair: Jessica Nurse www.makeupmyweddingday.com
Cake maker: Caked by Jessica www.cakedbyjessica.com
Macrame Styling: eadie and Lola www.etsy.com/uk/shop/EadieandLolaMacrame
Venue: Crockwell Farm www.crockwellfarm.co.uk
Stationery: Charlotte Lyes www.starchar.co.uk
Dresses: Love Spell Design www.lovespelldesign.com
Bride footwear: Emmy London www.emmylondon.com
Hair Accessories and earrings: Garter and Veil www.garterandveil.com
Veil: Visionary Veils https://visionaryveils.co.uk
Wedding rings: Rings with Grace www.ringswithgrace.com
Groom Suit and footwear: Model’s own
Tableware: Wren Ark https://wrenark.com/
Table runner and napkins: Silken Ribbons hellosilkenribbons@gmail.com
Bridal robe: Jessica Hollie Gifts www.jessicaholliegifts.etsy.com
Models: Kirsty Schneider and partner Jack
On the day assistant: Lauren martin
My vision for a romantic, Boho styled wedding shoot came to life with some amazing suppliers, in the stunning setting of Crockwell Farm, Northamptonshire – the perfect location for a bohemian infused backdrop, whilst providing a beautiful and whimsical charm. With the added bonus that both the interior and exterior of this location enhanced the look I wanted to achieve.
I choose a soft colour palette of dusky pinks and ivory to create a dreamy summer wedding. The floristry was a key feature of the shoot and with meadow arrangements becoming a trending floral installation for weddings, these were a must have to sit by the side of the table. As you can see, Hibiscus floral design did an incredible job of bringing my floral vision to life.
Another popular trend right now is macramé, which fitted naturally with my Boho styling. I’ve highlighted its versatility with a variety of different pieces from Eadie and Lola, illustrating how they can be added into your decor. Swapping between a macramé to silk table runner, along with a selection of tableware options, the shoot allowed me to design different table set ups. Star Char wedding styling provided gorgeous, complimenting place setting cards for the finishing touch, along with our wedding stationery.
For the bridal looks, both dresses were from Love Spell Design, and each one suited the theme beautifully. Especially when paired with the bespoke veil from Visionary Veils. Hair and make up was styled by Make up my wedding day – opting for soft, relaxed and effortless looks that reflected our theme. Adding golden glimpses through our jewellery and accessory selection from Garter and Veil, as well as wedding bands from Rings with Grace.
The whole day was captured perfectly by Ellie Mac Photography – whose soft and relaxed style of shooting is mirrored in the images. Her natural eye and use of light, really emphasis the dreamy and romantic feel we had intended.
I hope you feel inspired by this shoot and have as much fun looking at the pictures as the team and I did creating it.
Watch out for Mel’s (Your Story Events) super helpful article on ‘How to style a boho wedding’ coming to English Wedding very soon!
