Coombe Abbey Wedding Photography
An Elegant and Timeless Celebration at the Iconic Warwickshire Wedding Venue
There are wedding venues that impress at first sight then there’s Coombe Abbey. Set in the heart of Warwickshire, surrounded by 500 acres of stunning parkland, the 12th-century former Cistercian abbey is the kind of place where history, romance, and nature meet. It was the perfect choice for Lucie and Chris, who dreamt of a wedding day that was not only elegant and timeless but deeply personal.
From the moment I arrived to work as their Coombe Abbey Wedding Photographer, I could sense the energy of the day. Warm, intimate, and filled with so much love from friends and family. The kind of wedding that doesn’t just look beautiful it feels beautiful, too.
Bridal Preparations
Lucie spent the morning getting ready in a luxurious Suite at Coombe Abbey Hotel. The room, rich in character with tall windows, antique furnishings, and golden lunchtime light pouring in, made for an idyllic space for bridal preparations. Surrounded by her bridal people, the atmosphere was calm but full of gentle excitement.
Her dress, a stunning gown with intricate lace detailing, finished off with dark green shoes and a stunning gold leaf tiara headband. hung from a carved four-poster bed. When Lucie finally stepped into it, she transformed into the most radiant bride. Meanwhile, Chris was getting ready at home but Lucie kept checking when he was on his way.
The Ceremony in the Abbeygate
The ceremony took place in one of Coombe Abbey’s historic ceremony rooms the Abbeygate, a space filled with old-world charm, soaring ceilings, and dark wood lining the walls. The guests rose as the Pianist gently began to play, and The bridal party began to walk down the aisle. Then Lucie walked in on her father’s arm.
The ceremony was emotional. They had chosen to write their own vows simple, honest, and full of warmth. There’s something incredibly powerful about hearing two people speak directly from the heart, especially in a setting so steeped in history. Family and friends gave readings some from Shakespeare some fun, but all about happiness and love.
Lucie and Chris had already completed the legal marriage paperwork on Monday this was about the whole day to celebrate.
The Abbeygate was filled with creams and burgundy chair sashes with gorgeous burgundy and orange flowers that were simply stunning, and sat perfectly on Halloween.
Couple Portraits & Groups
After the ceremony, we took advantage of the Abbey’s dry skies and autumnal sun shining down upon us for couples portraits. The cool breeze and beaming sun provided the perfect conditions. Lucie and Chris were naturals, clearly lost in the moment with one another, which always makes for the most genuine wedding photographs.
We wandered along the lakeside, and towards the formal gardens, but the rain had been and Lucie didnt want to go onto the sandy gravel. We stayed around the lake and the main Abbey hotel to keep her dress nice and clean. One of my favorite spots is beneath the grand arches of the abbey itself. The architecture of Coombe Abbey offered a perfect contrast to the soft emotion between them. Gothic stonework and ivy-covered walls formed dramatic backdrops to their tender, modern love. This dedicated time is essential for creating timeless wedding photos and giving the couple a quiet moment alone all day.
The couple had chosen lots of group shots which took up a lot of the time, but everyone was in great spirits we had traditional group photos and some fun ones added in too.
The Courthouse Room Wedding Breakfast
Back inside, the Courthouse Room had been beautifully transformed for the wedding breakfast. Every table was styled with soft florals in Oranges, Yellows, creams and burgundy tones. The atmosphere was perfect for this halloween autumnal day.
The speeches were heartfelt, funny, and touching. As golden hour approached, I stole the couple away for a few more golden hour portraits outside. The low sun cast a warm glow across the trees and lake, creating a fairytale setting. These quiet, soulful frames were some of my favourite moments to capture as their Coombe Abbey Wedding Photographer.
And even more fun, now the clocks have changed we headed off with Chris the Videographer, (who I highly recommend, we have worked together a few times now). Using 2 lights and a mini fog machine we captured some amazing photos and videos for the couple. I just loved how much Lucie and Chris let us get creative and happily went with it!
The Cake Cut, First Dance and Evening
Get your party hats on… Karaoke for this amazing fun bunch. The DJ kicked us off with great music and then the singing commenced.
The first dance was a beautiful waltz they both looked and did amazing.
The cake was cut with a sword, a family treasure from Lucie’s Grandparent.
And the dancing and singing went on all night.
What a fabulous venue and wedding to spend Halloween night on.
Why Coombe Abbey is a Premier Wedding Venue
Lucie and Chris chose Coombe Abbey not just for its stunning visuals but because it represented so much of what they loved a connection to heritage and a setting that brought everyone together. The venue’s ability to be both grand and welcoming, impressive yet intimate, made it an exceptional choice for their classic storybook wedding.
For any couple dreaming of a wedding that feels like stepping into a romantic story, with layers of history, beautiful surroundings, and luxurious details, Coombe Abbey offers all that and more.
