Olivia & Charlie’s Cripps Barn Wedding
As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of working at Cripps Barn near Cirencester in the Cotswolds many times, and it remains one of my absolute favourite venues. Located in the stunning Cotswolds countryside, Cripps Barn combines rustic charm with an effortlessly romantic atmosphere. What I love most about this venue is the type of couples it attracts – creative, laid-back, and wonderfully in love. There’s a unique vibe at Cripps Barn that’s simply unmatched; it’s a place where laughter, love, and unforgettable moments come together seamlessly. Every time I work here, I’m reminded why I adore this job so much.
Cripps Barn – Cotswolds Wedding Venue
Cripps Barn itself is tucked away in a picturesque Cotswold woodland glade, offering a sense of seclusion that adds to its charm. This 18th-century stone barn boasts an oak-beamed dining room and an open kitchen equipped with a wood-fired pizza oven, French rotisserie, and a cosy fire pit. Outdoor ceremonies here are nothing short of idyllic, set amidst rolling hills and breathtaking countryside views. As day turns to night, the barn transforms into an enchanting venue for celebration, complete with a Funktion-One sound system that ensures a lively and unforgettable evening of dancing and joy.
As usual, I started the day about three hours before the ceremony, capturing those all-important preparation moments. My first stop was The Stump, a charming nearby pub, where I met Charlie and the boys. It was a brilliant setting for some relaxed and fun shots of the groom and his groomsmen as they got ready and shared a few laughs.
Afterwards, I headed to Bibury Farm Barns to photograph Olivia and her bridal squad. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as final touches were being made, and it was a joy to document these moments of anticipation and joy. I absolutely love providing full coverage for my couples, and the morning preparations are such a huge part of telling the story of their day. Not only does it set the tone for the rest of the wedding, but it also helps everyone get comfortable with the camera, making the later moments even more natural and effortless.
The ceremony itself took place in the stunning Cripps Barn. I’m a big lover of this particular room, mainly because of the beautiful window light that streams in, illuminating the couple and their guests in the most flattering way. This natural lighting always makes such a huge difference in the final images, giving them a soft, romantic quality.
After the ceremony, we organised a joyful confetti tunnel on the terrace, which was a fantastic way to kick off the celebrations. Following that, the drinks reception and canapés kept the atmosphere lively and relaxed. Taking advantage of the sunny weather, I captured some family group shots outside, ensuring we had a lovely backdrop of the surrounding countryside.
Later on, I whisked Olivia and Charlie away for a little portrait session. The sun was shining, and the scenery couldn’t have been better – it was the perfect chance to capture some relaxed, natural shots of the two of them just soaking in the moment.
Before we knew it, it was time for the wedding breakfast and speeches. As always, the food at Cripps Barn was absolutely spectacular. I’ve experienced it many times, and I must say, these guys really know their stuff when it comes to good cuisine! The atmosphere during the meal was warm and full of laughter, and the speeches were a perfect mix of heartfelt and hilarious moments. It’s always such a joy to capture these candid reactions and emotions.
As the evening rolled in, we made our way to the dance floor for the first dance. It started off beautifully, with Olivia and Charlie sharing a tender moment, but it didn’t take long before it turned into fabulous mayhem – and honestly, that’s just how I like it! The energy was incredible, and everyone was in high spirits.
I’m not one to pack up and leave right after the first dance. For me, the dance floor is where so much magic happens. Whether it’s the crazy moves, the laughter, or those hilariously candid moments, I love capturing it all. There’s something so genuine about people letting loose and just having the time of their lives. I always make sure to stick around long enough to document plenty of those unforgettable party vibes.
Olivia and Charlie’s wedding day at Cripps Barn was nothing short of amazing. From the heartfelt moments during the ceremony to the wild fun on the dance floor, every part of the day was filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better couple or a more stunning setting.
If you’re planning your own wedding at Cripps Barn and are looking for a photographer who knows the venue inside and out, I’d absolutely love to hear from you. Let’s create some incredible memories together!
