The Enchanted Lodge

We thought we’d finish the year with a magical Christmas editorial at The Grand Lodge at Oaklands in Yorkshire. We love the rawness of this space, and the muted, chic palette fits perfectly – toffee coloured roses are my actual fave.

After another emotional year, we hope you can take some time to rest, pause the news from the last week or so, and fully embrace the festivities (or well deserved time off) with your loved ones.

We’ll be back in January to welcome and inspire all you lovely newly-engaged folks, but for now, Merry Christmas!

Andrea says…

As you enter the grounds of Oaklands you are instantly aware that you’re somewhere magical. Nestled within 200 acres of woodland, the winding roads lead you to The Grand Lodge, an impressive purpose built American-style rustic lodge that blends into its natural surroundings.

The cosy feel within the venue lends itself well to winter weddings, especially at Christmas! With this editorial we wanted to create a non-traditional festive feel with earthy tones paired with seasonal gold sparkles.

The dress, Damali – Wtoo by Watters provided by Sophie at Elizabeth Lucas boutique – was the perfect match for this shoot and the beaded bodice added the right amount of sparkle! The faux fur shawl complemented the dress wonderfully, a statement piece for a winter wedding. A classic 1920’s look was the inspiration for our models hair and makeup, created by the equally talented Laura Truscott Hair and Toni Neylon Walker Makeup Artist.

The oversized star, from Born Boho, was used as a backdrop in the ceremony area, styled with Bloom & Bridal’s contemporary grounded floral design. The arrangements’ wild form and natural tones gave a modern twist. The candle lit ceremony room and twinkle lights on the star added warmth to the lodge and completed the ‘cosy vibe’ look we were aiming for.

Claire’s willow moongate was transformed into a lush backdrop for the top table. A mix of orchids, honesty and gold eucalyptus paired with the timeless rose were used which added to the romantic element of the shoot.

Crisp white and sparkly gold was the theme of our stationery. The gold star place settings complimented wintry white linen, and both worked well against the rustic wooden table and woven placemats.

Grace, of Grace Eva Cakes, created a stunning four tier snowy white cake named ‘Enya’ after Grace’s favourite Christmas music. The show stopper was dressed with a crown of sugar dried cow parsley, sugar honesty, avalanche roses, sugar gypsophila, twigs and berries.

The sister team Jo and Jennie from Bloom & Bridal were our florists. I’ve worked with the ladies a number of times and they were the obvious choice for this shoot. Their work is in a class of its own. Their attention to detail, design skills and knowledge is amazing. Their interpretation of a brief is always spot on, as confirmed by the results of this shoot!

Christmas weddings do not always have to be lots of holly and red berries. If couples are fans of a more muted pallet that naturally suits warmer months, simply incorporate warmer tones and textures, and maybe a few sparkles to complete the festive look!