A Joyful Cotswold Celebration: Katie & James’s Wedding at Foxhill Manor

I first met Katie and James during a scenic tour of the Cotswolds in search of their perfect wedding venue. Katie, originally from the States, had fallen in love with the Cotswolds after a romantic weekend there with James. From the outset, it was clear that they envisioned something truly special—an intimate celebration that felt more like a weekend escape with their closest loved ones than a traditional wedding.

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We visited several venues, but when we arrived at Foxhill Manor on the Farncombe Estate, we all knew we’d found “the one”. Tucked into the rolling hills, this exclusive-use manor exudes English charm and warmth. With accommodation for up to 16 guests in uniquely designed rooms, plus further guest lodgings just a stone’s throw away, it was absolutely ideal for their wedding of around 60 people.

The celebrations began on the Friday with a classic countryside activity—clay pigeon shooting—a real treat for the American guests. This was followed by a relaxed welcome dinner at a charming local gastro pub, giving everyone a chance to unwind and settle in.

Saturday brought with it the magic we’d been building towards. The sun shone brightly as guests gathered in the garden for the 3pm ceremony. Originally, we’d planned for the ceremony to take place in another part of the garden, but after a quick walk-through at the rehearsal, I suggested a new location—more accessible for Katie in her heels and, as it turned out, even more picturesque.

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And what a vision Katie was! In her Maggie Sottero gown, with hair and make-up perfectly styled by Lucy Beesley Bridal, she walked down the aisle to the beautiful music of the Cotswold Ensemble, framed by a breathtaking floral arch by Stephanie Saunders Flowers. The ceremony was made all the more personal and heartfelt by Katie’s father, who acted as celebrant.

Guests were then treated to a champagne and cocktail hour in the gardens, before being seated in the manor’s ballroom for a delicious three-course meal. Stephanie truly transformed the room with a wildflower-inspired meadow running the length of the tables—a masterpiece of natural elegance.

The evening unfolded with Katie and James’s first dance, accompanied by the soulful tunes of Acoustic David. Later, under the dusky sky, they gathered their guests for a magical sparkler shot, captured to perfection by Weddings by Nicola and Glen, who documented every moment with their usual grace and professionalism.

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The weekend closed with a lovely farewell brunch on the Sunday morning—a relaxed send-off that encapsulated the warmth and thoughtfulness that had gone into every aspect of this celebration.

Katie and James had such a clear vision for their wedding: intimate, joyful, and deeply personal. It was a pleasure and a privilege to help bring that vision to life. I’ll always remember this beautiful weekend in the Cotswolds with a full heart.

Suppliers

Venue – Foxhill Manor

Bridal Gown – Maggie Sottero

Make Up Artist – Lucy Beesley Bridal

Ceremony Music – The Cotswold Ensemble

Florist – Stephanie Saunders Flowers

Reception Music – Acoustic David

Photographer – Weddings by Nicola and Glen

Planning – Joanna Wilford Weddings