A sun-filled outdoor ceremony at Alcumlow Wedding Barn

Gemma and Sean were wed in a beautiful outdoor ceremony at Alcumlow Wedding Barn last September, a stunning venue that I will tell you more about in a little while. Before I get to that though, I need to mention Gemma’s shoes! When we mention wedding shoes the mind often automatically wonders over to glamour – heels, sparkles. You know the drill. But Gemma, wonderful Gemma, a stunning girl with the most infectious smile and laugh’s choice of footwear was perfection. Super cool, super stylish … NIKE AF1’s (an extra point awarded for super comfortable!). I just love that she was confident enough in her own style to wear exactly what she wanted on her feet, even if not ‘traditional’. And what I loved even more is how they looked beautiful with her gorgeous Maria Modes gown which featured a beautiful illusion neckline and lace detailing. Can a bride wear a super pretty wedding dress, veil … and trainers … absolutely! Gemma looked breath-taking.

Right, now that we have discussed the bridal look, I’ll tell you about Alcumlow Wedding Barn, Gemma and Sean’s chosen venue. Alcumlow is a traditional Dutch barn located in the Cheshire Countryside. It is the perfect backdrop for a rustic luxe wedding and perfectly suited Gemma and Sean’s style. Their celebrations began with their wedding ceremony, which was held in the White House. Perhaps the star of the show (after the shoes!), the white house overlooks the lake and grounds. The thought that has gone into creating this outdoor space amazes me, it is literally like stepping into a Chapel – but without the walls and ceilings! Blessed with afternoon early Autumn sunshine, Gemma and Sean said their vows within this spectacular open structure with their family and friends looking on. It was a lovely ceremony with the smitten couple clearly soaking up the sunshine and the love their guests have for them, not forgetting the love they so clearly have for each other. If you know of my work, you’ll know that I am all about the fresh, light look – this wedding was made for me!

Alcumlow is so stunning that it would look beautiful without any décor at all. However, I do always enjoy seeing how the happy couple have decided to add their own style to a venue. For the barn itself, where they were to enjoy their wedding breakfast they added elements which perfectly complemented the natural rustic feel and gave it that touch of luxe. Gold lanterns with large pillar candles surrounded the table plan which stood at the entrance, the plan itself was a visual representation of the globetrotting that Gemma and Sean have done together over the years. Their tables featured gold geometric terrariums filled with white roses and simple greenery. An additional touch were their Mr and Mrs thrones which graced the centre of their top table!

I’ll end this post with a mention of their bridal party and groomsmen, who all looked lovely. Beginning with the gents, who were dapper in navy suits and a white rose buttonhole. Sean chose a different tie for himself which featured a lovely ‘stag’ motif. The bridal party wore floor length gowns in a pale blue. Their flowers were also mostly whites, with roses being the focal point of the bouquets too, again complementing the venue styling. Gemma’s bouquet also included Eryngium, or sea holly as it is also known, adding that touch of blue to match the bridesmaids, and a little texture. I love clever little detail like this, where subtle hints bring the whole look of the day together and I always look to capture it as much as I can in my images. And it is now time for you to enjoy looking at them as much as I enjoyed taking them. Oh, finally, kudos to the wedding party for also having blue smoke bombs just to finish everything off!

Gemma and Sean, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your super stylish, super lovely day.

Heledd x