A Relaxed & Beautiful Barn Wedding in the Oxfordshire Countryside.

Nicola & Martin's Perfect Day

Tucked away in the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside, this exclusive estate blends rich history with the rustic charm of Cotswold stone barns and elegant, modern comfort. It’s a wedding venue that feels timeless yet personal—an ideal setting for Nicola and Martin’s relaxed, joy-filled wedding day.

From the moment I arrived, I knew it would be a special one. The sun was shining, the grounds were looking stunning, and the whole place just had that quiet buzz of something meaningful about to unfold.

A Venue That Blends Charm and Comfort

The barns are a dream for any couple wanting that mix of rustic character and understated luxury. With exposed oak beams, flagstone floors, and beautiful honeyed stonework, they offer the perfect backdrop for both intimate moments and grand celebrations.

Nicola and Martin had exclusive use of the venue, which includes three lovingly restored barns for the ceremony, dining, and dancing. The estate offers space for up to 140 guests for the ceremony and wedding breakfast, and up to 200 for the evening party. With 16 beautifully designed bedrooms on-site—including a complimentary Honeymoon Suite—the couple and their closest friends and family could relax and enjoy the rhythm of countryside life.

From the private courtyards to the 15th-century Loggia archway (yes, you can even say your vows beneath it!), every part of this venue has been carefully thought through. The atmosphere changes with the seasons, and the gardens were looking absolutely gorgeous in the summer sunshine.

A Day Full of Candid Moments

Nicola and Martin had made it clear from the start: they didn’t want anything too staged. No forced smiles, no intrusive direction—just a relaxed, informal day captured as naturally as possible. And honestly, they nailed it.

Although they claimed not to be naturals in front of the camera, they absolutely were. From quiet moments between the two of them to joyful scenes with their guests, everything felt honest and heartfelt.

The day included games in the garden—croquet and bean bag toss were a big hit—and the whole afternoon had a brilliant, laid-back vibe. There were so many little moments of connection and laughter. It was a real pleasure to photograph.

Kind Words from the Couple

After the day, I received this message from Nicola and Martin:

“We just wanted to send you a BIG thank you for your kindness, patience and professionalism in the run up to and during our wedding day.
As you know, we wanted a mellow, relaxed and informal wedding and didn’t want a lot of posed, formal photos. You certainly lived up to our brief and we’re very sure that you took some lovely candid shots. Many guests commented on how unobtrusive you were compared with other wedding photographers they have come across (bossy was one of the words used!) and it really did feel like you were one of the guests! It’s a fine line between getting the required shots and irritating people, but you managed it perfectly and in particular, you were brilliant with the children.”

Feedback like this means the world. I always aim to blend in, to document the day quietly and respectfully—never pushy, but always present. While a little gentle guidance helps now and then, there’s no need to be bossy to get beautiful results.

Final Thoughts

Weddings like Nicola and Martin’s are why I love what I do. A beautiful Oxfordshire wedding venue, an amazing couple, brilliant guests, and a relaxed vibe from start to finish—it all came together so effortlessly.

If you're planning a barn wedding in Oxfordshire and want relaxed, candid wedding photography without the fuss, I’d love to chat. Head over to www.stephenbaronphotography.co.uk to get in touch.