There’s something so special about a wedding where the couple have chosen to design their day just as they want it without being bound by any traditions or obligations. Calm, joyful, and full of meaning is just how I’d describe this relaxed summer Bowerchalke Barn wedding just outside Salisbury. Surrounded by rolling Wiltshire countryside, the day was beautifully personal from start to finish, with laughter, music, and the warmest bunch of friends that made photographing it an absolute dream. If you’re in need of inspiration for a wedding day which ditches the necessary traditions in favour for a more relaxed feel read on.

An intimate legal Lyme Regis ceremony

Before the big celebrations at Bowerchalke Barn, the couple chose to have an intimate legal ceremony by the sea in Lyme Regis, just the two of them with their daughter. It was such a beautiful & truly intimate ceremony. Me & my Dad (who happens to live in Lyme Regis) and I were the only witnesses and it was truly an honour to capture it for them. This allowed them to have one of their closest friends officiate the ceremony on the big wedding day, which meant they could do exactly what they wanted and keep it short & sweet, with no paperwork, zero restrictions, stress or faff!  It allowed them to create a heartfelt and truly personal moment that had everyone smiling and cheering and got a drink in everyone’s hand asap!

Getting ready on the big day

Meg and her friends got ready in an airbnb just outside Salisbury, not far from Bowerchalke Barn wedding venue. The bride wore “Sept” dress by Sarah Seven from Heart Aflutter Bridal. It truly took my breath away, and is so different to any other wedding dress I’ve seen. A sleek, modern two piece gown it features lace and with soft pleated lines that moved so gracefully. The added scarf has an air of Grace Kelly elegance too. Meg looked absolutely incredible.

The lovely Grace Olivia Makeup, (who I would highly recommend) created a fresh, natural look that perfectly suited the bride’s understated style. Her friend styled her hair into a simple low bun — elegant, timeless, and beautifully effortless.

The Celebration at Bowerchalke Barn

Bowerchalke Barn is one of those venues that feels instantly welcoming. A relaxed rustic space, with beautiful planting and countryside views in every direction.

As Meg and Matt were already legally married they had a friend officiate their ‘ceremony’ at the beautiful arbor overlooking the barn. Having a friend officiate a non-legal ceremony gives you the freedom to create something truly personal and meaningful. Unlike registrar-led legal ceremonies, which must follow strict scripts and take place in licensed venues, a friend-led ceremony can happen anywhere and include any elements you love — from personal vows to symbolic rituals like hand fasting. They’re always more relaxed, (no pre wedding interviews to attend or inflexible time lines) and can be deeply reflective of who you are as a couple.

Music & Mingling

After their short and sweet ceremony the Bride and Groom led their guests down the lane back to the barn for drinks. Meg and Matt had supplied lawn games which kept kids and grown ups alike occupied. During the drinks reception, The Malts kept everyone smiling with acoustic tunes while guests mingled. Capturing the fun and the atmosphere is one of my favourite parts of capturing a wedding day. As well as photos of the couple I always want to provide lots of relaxed, natural candid photos of their nearest and dearest. Later, Duncan Howlett played during dinner — the perfect mellow backdrop.

DIY Wedding Flowers & Details

In keeping with their laid-back approach, the couple sourced their flowers from a local flower market the day before the wedding. They spent the afternoon arranging them together — a lovely touch that made the day feel even more personal. The result was a collection of wild, seasonal blooms in soft tones that tied in beautifully with Bowerchalke Barn’s rustic charm.

The rustic theme continued with hessian runners and bar signage, and each plate was simply adorned with a printed menu and place name. Minimal but beautiful and laid back details. No wedding cake, and no favours. Meg and Matt chose to illuminate what they saw as unnecessary extras only there for tradition’s sake. They also did away with the speeches, apart from one by Meg’s Dad.

And when evening arrived, Party Up Band took over, filling the dance floor from the very first song. Their singer was incredible and came off the stage to mingle with guests. The energy was incredible — the perfect ending to such a relaxed and joy-filled day.

Planning a Bowerchalke Barn wedding?

If you’re planning your own Bowerchalke Barn wedding, or a relaxed day which breaks with tradition, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch for more info about my pricing and availability here.