Inspiration

Cowboy hats, Keith the Golden Retriever and the breathtaking backdrop of Recommended venue The Hidden River Barn made Melissa & Jack's autumn wedding one to remember. The smoke bomb shot with rainbow backdrop was also fairly memorable... Oh, and that Stella York lace gown which fit Melissa like a very beautiful glove... that's hard to forget. You won't be able too anyway, as Recommended photographer Bridgette Ibbotson captured all the memories perfectly! There was also cracking evening entertainment in the form of a rodeo bull and live band The Wayfarers found through Recommended supplier Entertainment Nation. The only thing this wedding didn't have was a show stopping boho dried flower cake stand. Oh, it did? Well, some people just think of everything...

Boho autumn wedding at The Hidden River Barn, Carlisle with Stella York wedding dress.

The Hidden River Barn itself was breathtaking, the styling of the flowers made it even more so and the stunning arrangement around our cake was just beautiful. Our guests had the best day as did we and all was captured by the best photographer, Bridgette, for a lifetime of memories.

Melissa & Jack

ENTERTAINMENT

So, we have to talk about the bull in the room. We are, of course, talking about the rodeo bull that served up the evenings entertainment, and some healthy competition for a cowboy hat! Melissa and Jack wanted their guests to have the best day with no lulls, and they basically hit the bullseye. The joy in their photos just say it all! The personalised table place names and alternative wedding guest book with polaroids also meant everyone got to feel part of the day. We're just revelling in the love of it all (and pricing up rodeo bulls as we speak...)

HIDDEN RIVER BARN

There are wedding venues that take your breath away, and then there is The Hidden River Barn. Nestled in the charming forest near Carlisle, its rustic, relaxed and has some of the best windows we've ever seen. Talk about a ceremony room with a view! Despite the rain, Melissa & Jack looked an absolute vision. They were only slightly overshadowed by Keith, their golden retriever, who was serving dog wedding outfit vibes we couldn't ignore. Speaking of style ... We loved the rosy tones in the pink bridesmaid dresses, Melissa's blooming bouquet and the groomsmen's pink ties. Coordination is always key, and these guys pretty much nailed it!

If you're worried that rain will ruin your wedding day, Melissa & Jack's wedding will happily prove you wrong.

Mid way through the day Bridgette - our photographer - had asked our bridal party to gather outside the Hidden River Barn for a ‘smokebomb’ photoshoot. At first I thought, it’s still raining a little, is this a good idea. It wasn’t until we were outside ready with our colourful smoke bombs, that just behind us, was the most beautiful rainbow! Feeling like our lost loved ones were watching over us.

Melissa & Jack

If this Hidden River Barn wedding has you realising barns, bulls and boho vibes are your thing, this colourful wedding will be right up your street! We also have plenty more inspo from the venue, and a whole load of Recommended barn venues across the UK that could be the perfect backdrop to your day. 

Helena Milsom

Written by Helena Milsom

Featured suppliers

Photographer: Bridgette Ibbotson Photography | Venue: The Hidden River Barn | Band: The Wayfarers | Entertainment: Entertainment Nation | Florist: Sprigs and Berries | Hair Stylist: Tracey Tennant | Makeup Artist: Leonie Canniffe Makeup | Wedding Dress: Stella York | Bridal Boutique: Songbird Bridal | Bridesmaid Outfits: Chi Chi Clothing | Groom & Groomsmen Suits: Moss Bros. | Bridal Shoes: Lace & Favour | Flower Girl Dress: Roco Clothing

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