Something Old, Something New

A sprawling Northumberland estate nestled in eight breath-taking acres of enchanted woodlands, mini waterfalls and roaming peacocks; Ellingham Hall offers up an endless array of beauty spots for couples to take their just-married snaps in.
And the dreamy backdrops don’t end once inside the quirky 17th century manor house at the heart of the grounds, from its eclectically decorated entrance hall, through to the intimate wood-panelled dining room, elegantly restored historic chapel.
Its playful mix of old-world charm and modern-day luxury make it the ideal setting for this bridal shoot with a darker feel.

Dutch Realism

Collaborating with the venue’s team, photographer Helen Russell wanted to use the mansion’s sumptuous rooms and period features to enhance her Dutch Masters-inspired concept.
Taking influence from the dramatic lighting and dark tonal palette of Rembrandt and Vermeer’s exquisitely observed portraits and still lifes, she wanted to create the atmosphere of an intimate wedding gathering full of brooding romance.

The help of event styling maestros Sprig & Thistle was enlisted to create a moody autumnal floral palette of burnt orange, peach, off-white and rich greens.

The carefully constructed table and fireplace flower arrangements and loosely ribbon-tied bouquet of foraged foliage, mixed wildflowers, terracotta dahlias and apricot-hued, blowsy roses bring a rich, textural depth to the table-for-two set-up.
These plush natural elements are paired perfectly with cheesecloth fabrics, silver urns for overflowing blooms, decadent bunches of grapes and ripe figs, vermilion napkins, Falcon enamel plating and hand-dipped black taper candles.

Looking like a lovers’ table straight out of a Dutch Golden Age painting, this naturally-lit composition is further complemented by The Little Cakery’s delicate pomegranate seed-strewn meringues, as well as not one, but two chic wedding cakes.
The first is a semi-nude tier adorned with oversize blush roses to reflect the bridal bouquet, while the second is a two-tiered masterpiece with a simple petal-dappled painted design.
Adding a touch of earthy luxe to the layout, Rosewood Co’s simple dark gold typography and feathery-edged paper make for sophisticated stationery.

Deco Dazzle

Amidst all of this off-beat, bohemian charm is our ethereal bride, adorned in a series of sparkling gowns from Eliza Jane Howell’s 2020 bridal line.
With star-spangled sleeves, beautifully beaded bodices and embellished draped skirts, this is a collection full of cosmopolitan Jazz Age glamour.

This free-spirited styling is balanced by the model’s natural beauty look and winsome mermaid waves.
The blend of rich 17th century artistry and 1920s high society perfectly reflects the sophisticated eclecticism of Ellingham Hall, from the Rococo-style gilt-framed mirror in the bridal suite to the Gothic feel of the wood-lined fireplace.
For more stylish wedding inspo, head to our luxe list of Guest List suppliers. Your wedding day dream team tied up!

The Dream Team

Venue: Ellingham Hall
Photographer: Helen Russell Photography
Venue Styling & Flowers: Sprig & Thistle
Dresses: Epernay Bridal, Eliza Jane Howell
Jewellery: Sarah Vuong Bridal Jewellery
Hair Accessories: Bon Bon Bride
Hair & Make-Up: Lisa Jones Hair & Make-Up Artist
Cake: The Little Cakery
Stationery: Rosewood Co