The magnificent Orchardleigh House
The magnificent Orchardleigh House provided a fairytale backdrop for Freya and Milo’s English countryside wedding. This stately Victorian manor delivered a picturesque affair. With its palatial architecture and verdant grounds, Orchardleigh was the ideal setting for their celebration.
About Orchardleigh House
The majestic Orchardleigh Estate has been home to the Llewellyn family since the 16th century. The palatial manor house was constructed in the 1860s in a grand Neo-Elizabethan style. Featuring historic design, manicured gardens, rolling hills, and lakes, the estate makes for an unparalleled wedding venue.
Grounds
Sprawling lawns, blooming gardens, and lush woods provide endless backdrops for wedding photos at Orchardleigh. There is also a charming chapel on-site for traditional ceremonies. Freya walked down the garden aisle to meet Milo under a floral trellis.
Amenities
Orchardleigh offers many amenities perfect for weddings like a bridal suite for preparations and a groom’s lounge. The bathing house provides unique accommodations for guests. Expert in-house catering provides world-class dining for receptions in stately rooms.
Capacity
With multiple event spaces, Orchardleigh accommodates both intimate ceremonies and lavish receptions. The largest venue, the marquee on the front lawns, can host up to 350 guests with room for dining, dancing, and staging.
Location
Orchardleigh Estate is just outside Frome in Somerset, close to Bath, Longleat, and other attractions. Despite its countryside setting, it provides easy access for wedding guests. Many lodged right on the estate grounds during the celebrations.
Reviews
This exclusive estate is highly acclaimed as a wedding venue. Couples rave about the first-class service, expansive grounds, and exceptional cuisine. Freya and Milo said Orchardleigh delivered their dream wedding.
Freya & Milo’s Wedding Details
Freya and Milo planned a picturesque affair with timeless romance. They wanted an elegant black tie wedding with a touch of boho styling. Here are some special details from their big day:
Theme & Colors
They chose a color palette of blush, ivory, and sage green with brass accents. Blush linens mixed with brass Chiavari chairs created a romantic look. The groomsmen wore light grey suits with sage ties.
Flowers
Freya’s bouquet featured peonies, roses, dahlias, and greenery. Matching arrangements in brass containers graced the reception tables. An oakleaf wreath anchored the sweetheart table.
Ceremony
As the sun set, Freya walked down the garden aisle in a lace gown. She met Milo under a floral trellis where they exchanged heartfelt vows surrounded by natural beauty.
Reception
The stately ballroom dazzled with crystal chandeliers and candles for a romantic glow. Rustic wood tables displayed formal place settings. A naked cake was adorned with fresh blooms.
Entertainment
A saxophonist and guitarist played pop hits during cocktail hour. After dinner, a 12-piece band had everyone dancing under strings of Edison bulbs. Freya and Milo performed a lively swing dance.
Lodging
Orchardleigh offers varied on-site accommodations from lavish suites to cozy cottages. Many wedding guests stayed on the estate grounds for convenience. The couple spent the night in the luxurious bridal suite.
Timeline
- 4:00 pm – Guest arrival & cocktails
- 5:30 pm – Garden ceremony
- 6:30 pm – Cocktail hour with live music
- 7:30 pm – Reception entrance & first dance
- 8:00 pm – Dinner service
- 9:30 pm – Band performs
- 11:00 pm – Sparkler sendoff
Photography
To capture the natural beauty and romance, Freya and Milo hired wedding photographer Michael Gane. His documentary approach resulted in stunning artistic images of their picturesque celebration.
Tips for Planning Your Orchardleigh Wedding
For couples considering an Orchardleigh House wedding, here are some helpful planning tips:
- Book early – As a coveted venue, it books up well in advance. Give yourself at least a year.
- Hire a planner – Consider a wedding coordinator to assist with extensive details.
- Maximize photo ops – Use the grounds for portraits from the front lawns to secret gardens.
- Incorporate lighting – Use candles, lanterns, and string lights to create a romantic ambiance.
- Discuss lodging – Chat with the venue about varied on-site overnight accommodations available.
- Personalize signage – Add custom welcome signs with your names and wedding date.
- Consider transportation – Have shuttles or car service to transport wedding guests.
- Use preferred vendors – Ask the venue for their list of recommended, familiar vendors.
- Savor the experience – Stay on-site if possible to enjoy everything the estate offers.
By embracing Orchardleigh’s natural beauty and working closely with the venue team, Freya and Milo achieved the picturesque wedding of their dreams.
About the Wedding Photographer
Michael Gane, owner of Michael Gane Photography, brings over a decade of experience photographing weddings across the southwest of England.
Style
Michael embraces an unobtrusive, documentary approach focused on authentic moments as they unfold. His images tell the unique story of each couple through natural portraits and spontaneous moments.
Skills
With his background in photojournalism, Michael has a keen compositional eye and natural lighting expertise. He utilizes creative angles and perspectives in his fine art wedding images.
Accolades
Michael is an award-winning wedding photographer, honored as SWPP Photographer of the Year and Fearless Photographer of the Year for his outstanding images. His work has been featured internationally.
Locations
Based in Bath, Michael photographs weddings at venues across the southwest of England. He is intimately familiar with many popular locations like Orchardleigh House, The Pig near Bath, and The Moonraker Barn.
Approach
Michael focuses on being unobtrusive yet documenting every aspect of your big day. He takes time to understand your wedding vision and preferences. His relaxed demeanor puts couples at ease.
For naturally beautiful and artistic wedding photography, Michael Gane comes highly recommended. His talent and professionalism ensure he will capture your wedding day flawlessly.
More Wedding Inspiration
Here are some top online wedding planning resources offering ideas and inspiration:
- The Knot – Comprehensive site with a vendor directory, tools, and articles.
- Brides – Popular bridal magazine website showcasing real weddings.
- Style Me Pretty – Elegant wedding blog with inspiration from around the world.
- WeddingWire – Hub offering planning tools and access to wedding professionals.
By selecting a first-class venue like Orchardleigh House, embracing your vision, and working with talented vendors, you will be on your way to an elegant and meaningful celebration. Your dream Orchardleigh wedding can become a reality.