It’s hard to picture a more idyllic setting for a summer wedding than Notley Abbey. I’ve been fortunate enough to photograph many wedding at this breathtaking venue and Jacqueline and Ho-Ming’s was really special. With glorious June sunshine (thank you weather gods!), a romantic outdoor ceremony and a traditional Chinese wedding tea ceremony, the day truly was one to remember – as well as a real treat to photograph! 

The chic Buckinghamshire wedding venue

From the moment you make your way down the long tree-lined driveway, it’s clear Notley Abbey is a seriously spectacular wedding venue. Sat close to the Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire border, it’s as picture-perfect as they come, with countryside views as far as the eye can see. The historic house has that awesome ‘country pile’ vibe and I love that it used to be home to legendary Hollywood couple Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh; very cool. Today, couples have the run of the house and grounds, so Jacqueline, Ho-Ming and their guests were really able to make themselves at home.

The Notley Abbey wedding summer outdoor ceremony

Our bride and groom were spoilt for choice with ceremony options – they chose to make the most of the fabulous weather and have their Notley Abbey wedding in the picturesque, manicured gardens. With the sun shining down, the birds singing and the scent of lavender in the air, it was the most romantic setting for Jacqueline and Ho-Ming’s ‘I do’s.

The natural beauty of the garden brought all the décor the couple needed. After the sweet ceremony Jacqueline and Ho-Ming walked through the grounds while I captured some iconic confetti shots. I love how every guest is smiling along with Jacqueline and Ho-Ming!

The Chinese wedding tea ceremony

As a wedding photographer I love the chance to observe and capture traditions from different cultures. I was asked to photograph the Chinese wedding tea ceremony, where the couple serve tea to their parents and in-laws. It’s such a beautiful, respectful and meaningful ceremony and it was an honour to take these photos for both families to treasure forever.

Romantic soft pink reception styling for their Notley Abbey wedding

With fantastic natural light, honey coloured exposed stone walls, timber beams and dazzling swags of fairy lights, Abbot’s Hall is a genuinely stunning reception space for the Notley Abbey wedding. Jacqueline and Ho-Ming kept the wedding décor simple letting the atmospheric, rustic-chic interiors speak for themselves. Tables were dressed with crisp white linen and sparkling glassware. Vases of fragrant roses and stocks in whites, pink and soft blush sat in the centre of each table, while favours gave a nod to their Chinese heritage. Our bride and groom are a very well-travelled couple, and named their tables after the many countries they’ve visited together. A photograph of the couple at different spots from all over the world showed guests which table to sit at. Such a sweet, personal touch.

Jacqueline’s sophisticated bridal style

Jacqueline looked incredible in her chic scoop-neck wedding dress. With a sophisticated A-line skirt and full lace overlay, the look was timeless and luxurious. A tiara, necklace, drop earrings and full-length veil added a romantic feel to her bridal style. I think it’s a gorgeous bridal look, perfect for a luxe country house Notley Abbey wedding setting.

In the evening, Jacqueline changed into her second dress of the day – a stylish halter neck gown with fishtail skirt. The heavy embellishment sparkled under the disco lights as they took to the floor for their first dance.

Fun summer wedding touches

Jacqueline and Ho-Ming leaned into the season, filling their Notley Abbey wedding day with summery touches. It was great fun capturing the guests enjoying the garden games  – giant Jenga is always a hit! The couple’s guests were treated to the most delicious-looking ice cream station, complete with ‘help yourself’ toppings (love this idea). And for those with an extra sweet tooth, there was the chance to toast marshmallows on the open fire pits.

As the evening celebrations kicked off, the Father of the Bride opened up the most incredible bottle of Remy Martin brandy. Then our bride and groom, along with their guests, piled into the pop-up photo booth station, before hitting the dancefloor to the sounds of a live band.

The style file for Jacqueline and Ho-Ming’s Notley Abbey wedding

Photographer: David Bostock

Venue: Notley Abbey

Flowers: Joanna Carter

Cake: Tracey Mann

Bride’s dress boutique: The Wedding Dress Shop

Guitarist for ceremony/drinks reception: Alan Oliver

Band for evening reception: Xcaliber

Get in touch

If you like this post then please leave me a comment below!

For more Real Weddings CLICK HERE.

To enquire about Wedding Photography for your own wedding, whether at Notley Abbey or somewhere else, please CLICK HERE to Get In Touch