Set on a Sprawling 500-acre Estate
Set on a sprawling 500-acre estate, the stately Orchardleigh House provided a breathtaking backdrop for Shiana and Rufus’ English countryside wedding. This majestic Victorian manor delivered an elegant affair with timeless romance. With its palatial architecture and lush grounds, Orchardleigh was the ideal setting.
About Orchardleigh House
The magnificent Orchardleigh Estate has been home to the Llewellyn family since the 16th century. The palatial manor house was constructed in the 1860s in a regal Neo-Elizabethan style. Featuring historic design, sculpted gardens, rolling hills, and lakes, the estate is an unparalleled wedding venue.
Grounds
Sprawling lawns, charming ponds, and secret gardens offer endless backdrops for wedding photos at Orchardleigh. There is also a quaint chapel on-site for traditional ceremonies. Shiana walked down the garden aisle to meet Rufus under a flower-filled gazebo.
Amenities
Orchardleigh provides many amenities perfect for weddings like a bridal suite for preparations and a groom’s lounge. The bathing house offers unique accommodations for guests. Expert in-house catering provides world-class dining for receptions in the grand rooms.
Capacity
With multiple event spaces, Orchardleigh accommodates intimate ceremonies and grand receptions. The largest venue, the marquee on the front lawns, hosts 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 offers 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 food. Shiana and Rufus said Orchardleigh delivered their dream wedding.
Shiana & Rufus’ Wedding Details
Shiana and Rufus planned an elegant affair with timeless romance. They wanted a formal black tie wedding with a touch of vintage glamour. Here are some special details from their big day:
Theme & Colors
They chose a color palette of blush, cream, and gold. Blush linens mixed with gold Chiavari chairs created a glamorous look. The men wore black tuxedos with cream ties.
Flowers
Shiana’s bouquet featured elegant white roses, peonies, and seeded eucalyptus. Matching arrangements in gold containers graced the reception tables. A floral swing anchored the sweetheart table.
Ceremony
As the sun set, Shiana walked down the garden aisle in a lace fit and flare gown. She met Rufus under a gazebo adorned with hanging flowers for their intimate vows.
Reception
The ornate ballroom dazzled with crystal chandeliers and candelabras for a romantic glow. Formal place settings with gold chargers welcomed guests. A naked cake was flanked by tall floral designs.
Entertainment
A string quartet played pop hits during cocktail hour. After dinner, a 16-piece band had everyone on their feet dancing. Shiana and Rufus performed a choreographed foxtrot to “L-O-V-E.”
Lodging
Orchardleigh offers varied on-site accommodations from lavish suites to quaint 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 string quartet
- 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 romance and grandeur, Shiana and Rufus hired wedding photographer Michael Gane. His documentary approach resulted in artistic images of their timeless celebrations.
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 terraces.
- Light it up – Incorporate lighting like crystal chandeliers and candles to create romance.
- Consider lodging on-site – Chat with the venue about varied overnight accommodations available.
- Personalize signage – Add custom welcome signs with your names and wedding date.
- Discuss 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 splendor and working with the venue team, Shiana and Rufus achieved the timeless romantic wedding they imagined.
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 in stunning images.
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.