When Amelia and Dan first contacted me to discuss their wedding plans, I was immediately excited by their vision of celebrating at the iconic Stanway House. Planning a Stanway House wedding means working at one of Gloucestershire’s most picturesque wedding venues. As a Gloucestershire wedding planner this wedding I know was going to be super special.
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, having a Stanway House wedding means a wedding with Jacobean architecture, complete with golden stone walls, enchanting gardens, and its crowning glory—the spectacular 300-foot single-jet fountain, the tallest gravity fountain in the world. It is a Gloucestershire wedding venue that effortlessly blends historic charm with natural beauty, offering the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable celebration.
Amelia and Dan knew they wanted a Stanway House wedding that felt personal and relaxed and full of thoughtful details. And that is exactly what we created together.
My hands on service for a Stanway House Wedding
Planning Amelia and Dan’s wedding was a hands-on, full-service experience from start to finish. From the very beginning, I worked closely with the couple to bring their vision to life, starting with finding the right suppliers who could match their style and expectations. This included:
– sourcing the perfect caterer to craft a bespoke menu.
– selecting a marquee company that could create a practical yet stylish setup by the lake.
– finding a florist who could design natural, elegant arrangements that complemented both the church and the tithe barn.
Managing the coordination was key—coordinating multiple suppliers to ensure seamless delivery, set-up, and breakdown on the day ensuring every detail ran smoothly. I created a comprehensive time plan, covering everything from:
– supplier arrivals and set up times
– key logistics such as the ceremony arrival times for the bridal party
– guest transportation to the reception
– speeches alongside the timing of the wedding breakfast
– cake cutting and the first dance,
In the days leading up to the wedding, I oversaw the entire setup:
– checking the marquee layout
– setting up the barn and tables
– styling the decorations
– ensuring every space looked exactly as envisioned.
On the wedding day itself, I was there from start to finish, coordinating suppliers, managing timings, and troubleshooting behind the scenes so that Amelia, Dan, and their guests could simply enjoy the day.
It is this level of detail and care as a Gloucestershire wedding planner that allows my couples to relax, knowing everything is in safe hands.
The Morning Preparations
The day kicked off at a nearby farmhouse, where Amelia got ready surrounded by her closest family and friends. The house was buzzing with excitement — everyone from grandparents to the youngest nieces and nephews was there, soaking up the energy of the morning.
With hair and makeup complete, Amelia slipped into her stunning wedding dress. An elegant, graceful, and perfectly her. A flash of “something blue” came from her fabulous bridal shoes. A fun personal touch adding a playful twist to her classic style. The bridesmaids looked equally gorgeous in their soft-toned baby blue dresses that helped create a picture-perfect bridal party ready for the day ahead.
A Heartfelt Ceremony at St Peter’s Church
Although Amelia and Dan had chosen a summer date, the British weather had its own plans. Yet, a few raindrops did nothing to dampen spirits. The ceremony took place at St Peter’s Church in the nearby village of Dumbleton, a charming countryside church full of character.
As Amelia walked down the aisle, beaming with joy, she was surrounded by a sea of smiling faces—family, friends, and even their beloved dogs, all gathered to witness the marriage. The church was beautifully styled with seasonal blooms by Ellie Frances Flowers, with arrangements in the windows arches, along the aisles and urns full of abundant flowing florals. The Order of Service booklets were so pretty echoing the floral theme.
When the newlyweds stepped out as husband and wife not even the drizzle could wash away the happiness radiating from the newlyweds as they emerged from the church to a sea of umbrellas and cheers. Amelia and Dan hopped into their trusty Land Rover – a personal touch that couldn’t have been more fitting – and made their way to their Stanway House wedding.
Drinks by the Lake & Lawn Games for a Stanway House wedding
Right on cue, the clouds lifted as they arrived at Stanway House, and blue skies appeared just in time for the drink’s reception.
As guests gathered, they sipped champagne and nibbled on delicious canapés, all while soaking in the views of the grand fountain and the idyllic grounds. Meanwhile, a beautifully styled marquee had been set up on the lawn—not only as a contingency for the weather but also as a relaxed space for guests to mingle. Inside, a cute baby and child chill-out area ensured that every guest felt considered.
Later, the marquee became the perfect setting for the affectionate and warm-hearted speeches, allowing family and friends to share stories, laughter, and a few emotional moments—all while staying sheltered from any unexpected weather shifts.
During this time, Amelia, and Dan, along with their close family, took a moment for some beautiful portraits, capturing their true happiness against the estate’s stunning backdrops.
Meanwhile, guests continued to enjoy a relaxed afternoon, sipping champagne, playing lawn games, and mingling among the beautifully manicured gardens, all while soaking up the peaceful Cotswold surroundings.
The Stanway House Wedding Breakfast
Following the drinks reception, it was time to head into the Tithe Barn for the wedding breakfast.
Inside, the spacious barn came alive. Long trestle tables arranged in an elegant U-shape, leading to a top table where the newlyweds could fully soak up the joyful atmosphere, easily visible to all their guests. Delicate, seasonal blooms adorned the tables in low bud vases, encouraging conversation to flow effortlessly.
Soft linen runners, tapered candles, and clusters of glassware added texture and warmth, perfectly complementing the barn’s natural stone walls and soaring timber beams.
Amelia and Dan’s attention to detail shone through from the floral-themed stationery to the pretty wedding cake and wedding cheese stack. The menu reflected their favourite foods with a main of “Surf and Turf” featuring locally sourced ingredients followed by a classic family favourite dessert “Apple Crumble” that guests are still raving about. Every choice was intentional, designed to make guests feel welcome and relaxed.
Dancing Under the Cotswold Sky
As the evening drew in, guests returned to the marquee where the party really kicked off. Live music, non-stop dancing, and a packed dancefloor kept the energy high well into the night. The combination of a stunning venue, thoughtful details, and such a happy couple made for a day that no one will forget.
It was a day that balanced beauty within a truly magical setting of their Stanway House wedding filled with love, laughter, fun. All perfectly Amelia and Dan.
For a visual glimpse into their beautiful celebration, take a look at Amelia & Dan’s wedding gallery here.
Finding the right Gloucestershire Wedding Planner.
If you are envisioning a celebration filled with personality, thoughtful details, and stunning backdrops such as Stanway House, I would love to help bring your ideas to life. As a Gloucestershire Wedding planner, I am here to help make your wedding planning a seamless and joyful experience. Whether you are dreaming of a countryside marquee wedding, a historic venue celebration, or something completely unique do get in touch today, and let’s start creating your happy day!
Love,
Antonia x
P.S. If you are eager to find out more about other weddings I’ve planned do take a look at my wedding blog here where I have plenty of advice and weddings to share.
Supplier for Amelia and Dan’s Stanway House Wedding.
Caterer – Seven Mile Catering
Florist – Ellie Frances Flowers
Marquee – Mudway Workman Marquees
Photographer – Bullit Photography
Planner – Honour and Pop
