Inspiration

This intimate Oxford wedding is filled to the brim with personal touches and charm. The couple shared a special moment with a first look before walking down the aisle together whilst the harp played Toto by Africa, after exiting to the Jurrasic Park theme the couple then took a short walk through the back streets of Oxford with their guests to the reception. The Bodleian Library played host to the second part of their day and offered a stunning and dramatic backdrop for the evening celebrations which featured a period style mirrored table plan and an epic cheese tower cake. This personal and relaxed day is all beautifully photographed by Poppy Carter Portraits.

WHAT MADE OUR DAY UNIQUE

"I think that what made it unique was just the fact that everything was very personal to us - from the setting in Oxford, to the fact that we didn't have a disco or dancing as a part of the day. We didn’t bother with too many of the traditions, but instead planned the day how we felt we (and our guests) would best enjoy it. I really loved walking through the back streets of Oxford from St Edmund Hall (where the ceremony was) to the Divinity Schools. It was a beautiful sunny day, and felt a little magical to be leading all our friends and family to the reception venue!" - Abi & Gavin

Oxford Wedding

Oxford is steeped in history and spectacular architecture including the beautiful Bodleian Library which is one of the oldest libraries in Europe and where Abi & Gavin chose to have their stunning wedding reception. The bride wore a delicately laced Willowby by Watters dress teamed with a Jenny Packham shrug and a gorgeous flower crown. Every part of this wedding will make you smile and it’s very hard not to when the couple are so evidentially happy together.

INSPIRATION & STYLING

"It was really important to both of us that the day felt as relaxed and chilled-out as possible, despite the fairly grand venue. This affected the dress and suit we chose, the flowers and the general way the day flowed. We also wanted laughter in our day, so introducing a bit of humour (for example with our choice of music walking down the aisle) was a very conscious choice. We didn't have a huge number of suppliers because I wanted a fuss and stress-free wedding. Some of the suppliers were recommended through the venue (Bodleian). I spent a lot of time browsing the web, including using sites such as Rock My Wedding, and used Pinterest as inspiration. " - Abi & Gavin

This bride and grooms advice is to remember it's going to be an amazing and beautiful day, try to relax and enjoy the planning process whilst also remembering that this is YOUR wedding, the parts that make it personal are the parts that you and your guests will remember forever. If like this couple you are considering an Oxford wedding take a look at this wedding who also had their reception at The Bodleian Library.

Olivia Smith

Written by Olivia Smith

Featured suppliers

Ceremony Venue: St Edmund Hall | Reception Venue: Bodleian Library | Bridal Dress Designer: Willowby by Watters | Bridal Boutique: Perfect Day Bridal | Grooms Suit: Ted Baker by Moss Bros (TailorMe) | Bridal Shrug: Jenny Packham | Cheese Tower: Paxton and Whitield | Flowers: Sarah Harper Flowers | Hair & Make Up Artist: Holly Preston | Entertainment: Harpist - Stephanie West | Gift List: John Lewis

Inspirational articles you may also find useful