This summer I was honoured to attend the gorgeous, timelessly styled wedding of Lez & Natasha at Highfield Park in lush Hampshire as a second shooter for Emma Seaney, it was a beautiful day full of sun (and thankfully a few clouds too!)
Lez & Natasha opted to marry under a gazebo with beautiful countryside views with their closest family and friends there to watch as they tied the knot.
Pros of an Outdoor Wedding Ceremony in England
Stunning Scenery
When the sun shines, outdoor weddings in England offer spectacular views, memorable ceremonies, and ample space for guests. Few things are more romantic than saying "I do" against a vista of the English countryside.
Variety in Photography
Outdoor ceremonies provide more space, allowing photographers to capture a wider range of beautiful, dramatic images that can make your images truly stand out.
Natural Light
Outdoor weddings benefit from natural light, which enhances the quality of your photos, making colours more vibrant and negating (hopefully) the use of flash.
Decor
The natural beauty of an outdoor setting often means you can keep decorations minimal, allowing the scenery to shine and saving a few pounds in the process.
Cons of an Outdoor Wedding Ceremony in England
Longer Aisle Walk
Many venues with outdoor spaces have longer, open aisles, which may reduce the impact of the traditional 'reveal' moment when the doors open and guests see the bride for the first time.
Weather Uncertainty
In England, the weather is always a factor. While outdoor weddings can be magical, there’s no guarantee of sunshine. I'd suggest choosing a venue with a beautiful indoor option as a backup. In 2024, I photographed four outdoor weddings and one had to be moved indoors at the last minute due to rain, it's a possibility even in June or July
Sound Challenges
Outdoor spaces can pose sound issues, especially if it’s windy or if the area is large and open. This can make it harder for guests to hear the ceremony and you might want to think about if you'd want a speaker or if you don't mind if some people just can't hear what's happening!
Logistical Issues
If you have any guests who aren't mobile, moving across grass and other outdoor terrain can be tricky, you also might want to think about getting your wedding attire dirty.
Highfield Park
What a venue! If you're looking for a space that not only caters to your wedding with panoramic and uninterrupted views of the English countryside but also offers a hotel for your guests then this independently owned venue in Hampshire could be for you. There are countless photo opportunities around the venue.
For the groom prep shots, we utilised a large window at the back of the property to create some drama but the view was equally as stunning and we also turned around to get the view in too.
If you are thinking about getting married at Highfield Park or having a ceremony in England I would love to hear more about your day! Get in touch to talk about how I can help.
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