Autumn Romance at Balcombe Place

Its recent renovations have been undertaken sympathetically to its original early 1900s décor; however, touches of modern country house chic and individualism make it the perfect West Sussex escape.

I recently visited this beautiful house and loved the potential for an intimate, cosy, autumnal wedding, so when this beautiful styled shoot landed in my inbox, it was an immediate yes! Take a moment to lose yourself in the sheer romance of Balcombe Place thanks to a fabulous team of creatives, including Weddings by Emma Louise and Claire Graham Photography.

Emma says…

Balcombe Place is a home away from home for you and your guests to enjoy the celebration and escape everyday life. I chose to take the lead from our current world state and lean towards smaller weddings by showcasing the family dining room and creating an intimate wedding breakfast where everyone could gather around the custom-built table and feel cosy during a timeless autumn wedding.

The season is autumn, but not orange and red like you know it. These are deep purples, almost brown mulberry reds, and modern grey neutrals. The dark wood of the venue inspired the colour palette, the autumnal season and the available British florals. Sue from Bramble and Belle interpreted the design concept by using seasonal flowers like Dahlias in different sizes to create impact. Garden roses gave the soft, romantic feel, whilst amaranthus, snowberries, and wild carrots represented the seasonality, producing arrangements with wonderful texture and shapes. The Amaranthus brings through the decadent burgundy, complimenting the dahlias without the effect being overpowering. Different foliage also created movement and texture in the arrangements while keeping the greens soft and romantic. Hops were used as a table runner to compliment the florals, fill the table and give the perfect autumnal feel.

As with my styling, the colour and statement come from the florals; by keeping the rest of the rooms paired back, I let these shine to their full autumnal garden-in-bloom potential. Grey has been a popular neutral option for a while, and I am still here for it! I chose grey linen to brighten the room for its modern vibe and because it compliments shades of pink. It doesn’t feel too cold but is sophisticated when paired with the warm, earthy tones of the florals. The stationery by Stacy Oakley was absolutely to die for, and I love it when the paper is textured. The deckle edge and calligraphy are timeless, romantic and luxurious – elevating the entire place setting.

Bridalwear was from couture bridal house Nortier Shallow, and Laura wore the ‘Mauricette’ dress from their new 2021 collection. Described as “bridging the gap between a fun fashion moment and understated elegance” it has a gorgeous full skirt for swishing around and interchangeable sleeves for different looks throughout the day and evening.

We didn’t try too hard with hair and make-up, keeping it loose, simple and easy to wear. Opting for a statement headband and comb was the perfect addition for adding a little sparkle—Garter & Veil, who specialise in exquisite detailing and expert craftsmanship, supplied bridal hair accessories.

Having the shoot captured and interpreted by a fine art photographer was important; with the shoot being autumnal, we are showing how diverse this style of photography can be. A way of capturing soft, detailed and light images that tell the story of a wedding day in a luxuriously crafted way. Claire Graham’s photography captures hidden details and documents every element perfectly.

The overall shoot is romantic and bright, showing that autumn can be sexy, modern and fun. Say ‘I Do’ in front of a jaw-dropping backdrop, cosy up for an intimate day with guests, and drive away in a classic.

By having a smaller wedding, the modern couple can enjoy a weekend getaway with their nearest and dearest while spending their budget on high-impact decorative elements like flowers and luxury design elements. A smaller wedding, in autumn, is neither drab nor boring. By taking inspiration from this shoot, a couple can spend their budget by making each guest feel special with gorgeous stationery and attention to detail. Enjoy laughing over handpicked cocktails, dancing the night away, and cosying up in your own boutique room.

Venue Balcombe Place

Photography Claire Graham Photography

Concept, Planning + Styling Weddings by Emma Louise

Floral Designer Bramble and Belle

Stationery Stacy Oakley Calligraphy

Furniture Coordination Event Hire

Dresses Nortier Shallow

Hair + Makeup Petal Blush Hair & Makeup

Accessories Garter & Veil

Shoes Emmy London

Cake Cakes & Leaves

Car Hire VOWS

With thanks to Real Couple Laura and Mihai