A MUSIC FILLED COTSWOLDS WEDDING AT OLD GORE
H&T's wedding day felt relaxed, intimate and incredibly fun, a reflection of them and their affection for their friends and family. With music such an important part of their lives and their relationship, there was strong emphasis put on the right musical accompaniment for each part of the day. The beautifully restored Old Gore barn provided the perfect setting, surrounded by Cotswold countryside and catered by the masters of street food, Baz & Fred.
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The ceremony was unique and totally personal to H&T, who opted to have songs in place of readings. Their chosen songs were performed by four of their close friends who happen to be incredibly talented musicians. H walked down the aisle to an acoustic version of Frank Ocean's 'Godspeed', the first reading was a stripped back version of Aretha Franklin's 'Say a Little Prayer' and the second, Oh Wonder's 'Don't You Worry' - performed by the duo themselves.
The backdrop for the ceremony was the beautiful cotswold stone of the recently renovated Old Gore barn. Adorned with greenery and floral arrangements lining the aisle, framing H&T as they stood in front of their loved ones. Florist Oonagh O'Neill created beautiful, romantic bowl arrangements using Gaia Vessels and hand tied bouquets. Statement flowers included garden roses, spray roses, larkspur and scabius seed heads; softened with sweet peas, ami, nigella and grasses. Soft whites, ivories and greens were tones reflected throughout the wedding theme, from the flowers to the stationary, and even the bridesmaids shoes.​
H's off the shoulder, soft crepe dress from Bon Bride had a beautiful open draped back and bespoke design changes to extend the train. The addition of a bespoke bow tied round her ponytail complemented the look. H kept her accessories simple with Monica Vinader statement pearl earrings gifted by her Mother, and a bespoke 18k gold wedding band by Amelia Fine Jewellery. The beauty team was made up of Rachael Johnson and Jessica Field, who delivered enhanced versions of H's go to look - a parted ponytail and a sun kissed glow. Polka dots were an intentional design choice and seen throughout the bride and groom party, in the Rat & Boa bridesmaid dresses, the groomsmen's micro dot ties and Mother of the Brides jumpsuit.
The drinks and canapé reception was serenaded by acoustic duo The Brotherhood, and due to some unexpected July rain, was held inside the new - but equally atmospheric - extension to the Old Gore barn. The first food of the day included karaage chicken nuggets, tuna ceviche tacos and white bean bruschetta.
It was important to H&T that the day was appropriately punctuated, whether that be with music, food or speeches. Having opted for more speeches than the traditional three, the first - from the best men and father of the groom - were given during the reception, with each uniquely introduced by one of the groomsmen.
As late afternoon drew in, guests were seated on two long tables adorned with bowl arrangements and elegant black candlesticks. H&T felt strongly that guests were not sat down for too long, so opted for a one course meal of baja fish, crispy chicken and shiitake mushroom tacos, served with tortilla chips, guacamole, crispy potatoes, salsa verde, and red bean & coriander salad. The speeches continued during dinner with guests hearing from the bridesmaids, bride, groom and finally, father of the bride.
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As the evening set in and the sun returned, guests were ushered out to the courtyard for a sweet treat of churro's, accompanied by a saxophonist, setting the mood with upbeat funk and soul. Having not wanted to leave their guests earlier in the day, H&T chose golden hour for a quick portrait session with genius photographer Sara Lincoln. They returned to welcome their evening guests, ready for a night of dancing.
The courtyard came into its own in the evening, with lights strung across the ceiling of The Dutch Barn and the fire pit roaring, the atmosphere was set. H&T had dreamed of a full dance floor all night, and they certainly achieved this. Eight-piece Motown band House of Ellington kept the dance floor very much alive until the day came to a close.
