Inspiration

Crunchy leaves. Bold colours. The last sniff of summer mixed with the first sniff of winter. Autumn is one of the jewels in nature's crown, so it's little wonder that this autumn wedding is so stunning. Claire & Jack wanted to celebrate the season in all its glory, and with foliage, festoon lights and a feast of pie and mash (nom), there is no doubt that they have done so. Captured in all its multicoloured magic by Katrina Bartlam, a member of our handpicked supplier directory The List, this is a truly elegant autumnal affair.

The Vibe Of Our Day

When we thought about our wedding day and the atmosphere we wanted to create, we always came back to the idea of having a big, relaxed dinner party with all our favourite people. Lots of candles and flowers, long tables, wine flowing, delicious food and heaps of fun and laughter. We didn’t want anything stuffy or forced, and wanted everyone to let their hair down once the formalities of the ceremony were over. For this reason, we chose to do the speeches in the house straight after the ceremony, and this was one of the best decisions we made; it meant that by the time everyone sat down for dinner, it really was time to relax and party.

Claire & Jack

Autumn Wedding

Do not be fooled into thinking the best weddings take place in one season. Days like this at Dewsall Court - one of RMW's recommended venues - make our eyes sing and our hearts soar. Amazing autumnal colours look equally beautiful in the sun or the rain, and nothing shines brighter than candles and festoon lights, flickering and glistening in the midst of your festivities. For Claire & Jack, celebrating their union was also about celebrating the people who make them who they are - and their friends and family clearly felt the same. This talented bunch turned their hands to making this wedding day a truly personal affair, chipping in to help with everything from the stationery, table plan and table flowers, to the confetti, wedding cake and hair and makeup. The bride's aunt even created the incredible floral display on the stairs. Weddings bring so much joy to so many people, and I'm sure Claire & Jack would support us in saying that you should not be afraid to ask others for help; most people are over the moon to be asked to play some part.

Advice For Brides-to-be

My main piece of advice would be to take some time at the beginning of the planning process to think about what is important to you as a couple. Forget about traditions/formalities and note down the parts of the day that mean the most to you, and those you’re actually not so bothered about. Incorporate things into your day which reflect your relationship. We wrote our own vows, picked food and music we love, and filled the venue with pictures of friends and family in attendance. On the day, nothing made us happier than looking around and seeing our relationship reflected all around us.

Claire & Jack
As well as rich and opulent colours, autumn is a season typically associated with harvest - which therefore means feasting! Claire & Jack embraced this with their mouthwatering menu of pumpkin and apple soup, rich chicken pie with mash and kale, and sourdough cheese toasties around the outdoor fire pit in the evening (I'm drooling). It's well known that an army marches on its stomach, and this mantra applies to your wedding guests too. Don't expect energetic dancing with empty tummies! As out and out foodies, we have taken huge pleasure in handpicking the best caterers across the country, so you can be sure your wedding breakfast will hit the right spot.
Victoria Honan

Written by Victoria Honan

Featured suppliers

Venue: Dewsall Court | Dress Designer: Cymbeline Paris | Bridal Boutique: The Ivory Chapter | Groom's Suit: Ted Baker | Bridesmaids: Coast | Florist: Great British Florist | Band: The Newfangled Jesters

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