FEATURED LINKS
The Abbey by the Lake
Combermere Abbey has all the elements to create the perfect wedding day experience. The Keepers Cottage on the edge of the Walled Gardens is a lovely quiet space for bride preparations with different rooms for make up and hair, to getting dressed and for the first look with family and bridesmaids.
Groom preparations took place in Malbec Cottage, one of the lovingly restored stone cottages around a cobbled courtyard, tucked away to the side of the ornate topiary gardens. Tom and his groomsmen chilled out with a beer before getting ready for the day.
Interesting Recipes with Cheese
When we arrived, Leanne was already having her amazingly long and beautiful blonde hair woven into a stunning plait, interlaced with tiny ceramic flowers. The bridesmaids, having had their make up and hair done, sat around chatting, eating doughnuts and discussing interesting recipes you can cook with cheese, specifically Baby Bel (I must try some of these when I get home as they sounded delicious).
How To Tie a Bow Tie
In the meantime, Tom and his groomsmen were all working out how to tie a bow tie (wishing they had practices before the day). As much as the guys stood infant of the large mirror, the ties weren’t looking like a bow tie and they ended up back at square one. Luckily, Tom mastered this skill quickly so was on hand to assist his team.
Hot Air Balloons & Smiles
Over in the Glass House, the preparations were complete with an unusual and very lovely theme of hot air balloons. Leanne looked so happy all day, especially as she arrived at the Glass House on the arm of our very proud father. As soon as Tom turned to see her, she beamed at him, clearly not seeing anyone in the room but the man she was about to marry.
Soggy Guests
After a lovely ceremony, we all headed outside into the maze for confetti, then quickly retreated back into the Glass House as the heavens suddenly opened! This did not in any way dampen Tom & Leanne’s spirits and a quick dash under umbrellas along the path through the walled gardens took everyone into the marquee where drinks and canapés were served to the slightly soggy guests.
Very shortly after, the rain stopped and the sun came out so everyone was able to sit outside and enjoy some August sunshine.
Down by the Lake
When we had finished the family group photos, the guests were kept entertained with outdoor games whilst we disappeared off on a golf buggy with the newlyweds, down to the lake for some portrait photos. Tom admitted that he hadn’t particularly enjoyed having his photograph taken until we arrived by the Abbey! With the stunning panoramic views across the lake he soon settled into some romantic photos with Leanne and loved it so much that he didn’t want to return to the marquee!
Party Time and Pizza
After the Wedding Breakfast came the speeches, with the Father of the Bride having everyone in stitches with his anecdotes and recollections of Leanne growing up. Then it was time of the evening celebrations to commence. The newly weds performed a beautiful First Dance with everyone quickly joining them on the dance floor. With the party in full swing, the atmosphere was electric and outside, as the weather had turned into a warm summer evening, guests relaxed on the veranda enjoying the freshly made pizzas from the outside Wood Fired Pizza Oven.
This really was a lovely wedding at a stunning location, with a truly happy couple. It was loads of fun to be a part of such an amazing day, best of luck for the future guys!
Featured Suppliers
Venue – Combermere Abbey https://combermereabbey.co.uk
If you would like us to be your Combermere Abbey Wedding Photographer, please get in touch!
