Tuscan Elegance at Stratton Court Barn

Taking inspiration from the olive trees, rambling roses and stone walls surrounding the courtyard, a team of suppliers created a Tuscan-style wedding dream in the middle of the Oxfordshire countryside. Citrusy yellow hues enhanced the Mediterranean vibe, while delicate centrepieces, and a fresh margarita brought outdoor sophistication to this rustic barn setting.

Karin Tindall, event planner for the barn, has all the details…

Karin says…

The courtyard at Stratton Court Barn has of course been a favourite spot for drinks receptions and outdoor ceremonies over the years, but with the demand for the entire wedding to take place outside increasing – not just the ceremony – this is definitely a hidden gem, and was therefore perfect for our concept of an outdoor, yet elegant, wedding right here in the UK.

The idea for this editorial was formed by meeting numerous couples choosing between a destination wedding and celebrating closer to home, without either option feeling like a compromise. Pulling from atmospheric outdoor dining scenes typical of destination weddings, further inspired by the olive trees, parasols and country charm of Stratton Court Barn’s courtyard, we set about creating our Tuscan Elegance theme – modern, elegant, with rustic-chic Mediterranean vibes, right in the heart of Oxfordshire’s countryside.

With endless summer nights in mind – paired with those Mediterranean influences – fresh, citrus hues, ivory and shades of green formed our colour palette. And although shot at the end of September (while battling gale force winds and unpredictable rain showers, but let’s not dwell on that) we wanted to infuse the scenes with the warm feel of balmy nights and spring-like freshness.

Cait from Anna MacDonald Bridal Gallery chose a dress that was relaxed and elegant, yet with a touch of modern design, to complement this theme. The off-the-shoulder dress is ‘Penn’ by Evie Young. The exposed boning and asymmetrical pleated cuff is minimalist and modern, but softened by the A-line skirt and hits all the elegant notes by the rather luxurious matte satin.

Make-up artist Juliet created a glowing, glam look. She used skin products to create that luxurious glow and soft berry tones on the eyes to make Kimberley’s beautiful blue eyes ‘pop’. Hair stylist Lorraine complemented this with a soft up-do, with gold-effect pins featuring tiny gems and white flowers discreetly tucked in the side – adding a hint of sparkle without looking fussy or overly done.

Thinking about texture, colours and material, we started overhead with hanging rattan lanterns; and used bar stools in the same texture. Stratton Court Barn’s white linen and lime wash Chiavari chairs gave that clean, fresh look we were after, allowing room for Rachael’s, Wild Rose Florist, gorgeous blooms to take centrestage. Glass charger plates, slim wine glasses and an understated linen napkin further enhanced that clean look, but adding a bold green tumbler and bright lemon place card gave a nod to our Mediterranean influences. The Cake Shop created an equally clean and spring-fresh cake, that took its place on a gold plinth alongside the floral display by the bar.

Rachael used an abundance of seasonal blooms drawing from the soft, fresh spring-inspired palette of ivory and pastel yellow. These were complemented by richer citrus tones to tie in with the Mediterranean theme. Rachael chose romantic, feminine flowers such as tulips and garden roses – always present around the courtyard in spring moving into summer – lisianthus, dahlias, delphiniums, ami and eucalyptus. The bouquet featured trailing satin ribbon in a deep yellow, to further inspire that soft, romantic feel. Not forgetting Ibraheem’s button hole – the cutest thing you’ll ever see!

We hope this shoot will inspire those couples who want to create those wonderful, outdoor destination scenes much closer to home. Finding a venue that offers you the flexibility of outdoor dining (with equally beautiful indoor back-up options!) gives you ultimate flexibility around your day. This shoot was created using Stratton Court Barn’s existing tables, chairs, glassware, linen, bar service; the aim was to showcase how effortlessly it could be recreated.