We’ve all seen the inspiration for a wedding in the English countryside: abundant flowers, the sun shining, a stylish marquee and beautiful live music.
These weddings are becoming increasingly popular, not only because they look beautiful, but because they create a memorable experience for your guests. So, what are the ingredients you need to create a quintessentially English wedding?
The Venue
Unless you are choosing a church wedding, an outdoor ceremony is a lovely option. However, the British weather can have other ideas, so it’s always best to have a backup plan. This might be a beautiful room inside the country house hosting your reception or a ceremony space within your marquee.
For the reception, a marquee venue such as Ardington House, a castle such as Eastnor Castle or one of England’s many beautiful country houses will provide the perfect setting. Manor by the Lake on the edge of the Cotswolds and Benham Park in historic Berkshire are both ideal choices, offering stunning interiors, manicured grounds and plenty of space to celebrate.
Floral displays and installations will instantly evoke the English countryside, especially when they feature seasonal blooms such as peonies, roses and delphiniums.
The Music
In recent years, a wedding in the English countryside has become synonymous with Bridgerton: an elegant venue, guests dressed in their finery and live music completing the atmosphere.
To create this feeling, we recommend booking a string quartet, harpist or pianist to perform pop songs in a classical style. Your guests will recognise the music, but it will be played in a way that feels elegant and timeless.
Live music can accompany every part of the day, from the arrival of your guests and your ceremony to the drinks reception and wedding breakfast. Changing the style or energy of the music as the day progresses will help each part of your wedding feel distinct while creating a natural flow between them.
The Aesthetic
The beauty of a wedding in the English countryside is that it invites tradition: men in morning suits, ladies in hats and fascinators, a formal seating plan and a timeline that keeps the day moving.
However, an English country wedding in the 21st century also gives you plenty of opportunities to mix tradition with your own personality. Choose your favourite seasonal flowers, bring music into the day wherever you can and add thoughtful details such as handwritten notes at each place setting.
The aim isn’t to recreate somebody else’s idea of the perfect country wedding. It’s to take the ingredients you love – the beautiful setting, traditional touches, seasonal flowers and timeless live music – and make them feel entirely personal to you.
Wislocki Music represents exceptional musicians for weddings and events across the UK. Whether you already know exactly what you would like or need some guidance, we can help you find the perfect live music for your English country wedding.