A Small Outdoor Wedding
In the Heart of the Lake District
A Small Outdoor Wedding in the Heart of the Lake District
There’s something really calming and grounding about getting married outdoors, and the Lake District is particularly special. The views do all the styling, with just a little help from us, and the setting is naturally relaxing.
Claire and Russ chose a summer micro-wedding in June with just 17 close family and friends. They wanted a small, family outdoor celebration in the place they love.
Bringing Everyone Together
Everyone stayed locally in Grasmere and met up the night before – always a great idea. By the time the wedding day arrives, everyone is already connected, which makes the whole thing feel less like a formal event and more like time spent together as a family.
Before the wedding, we’d had lots of chats with Claire about a wet-weather plan, but we needn’t have worried! The weather was unusually hot for June in the Lakes. Sunshine, warmth, and clear skies made marrying outside the perfect choice for a couple who love the outdoor lifestyle.
A Ceremony that Felt Natural
Claire walked down the aisle with her father, Douglas, who wore a kilt. She wore a classic fitted lace dress with pearl accessories — elegant and timeless. Russ chose a brown tweed three-piece suit, which suited him, and the country setting, perfectly. As keen runners and genuine Lakes lovers, the landscape holds many happy memories of family holidays.
Thanks again for a fabulous few hours getting married at Cote How yesterday.
Claire & Russ
Family & Friends
The ceremony took place outside the barn, while guests enjoyed the sunshine and open views. Claire’s sister, Rebecca, gave a reading, and Rob acted as best man to present the rings. With a small and intimate wedding, everyone feels a sense of involvement, making it all the more special for the couple.
sunshine & Celebration
After the ceremony and confetti throwing, there was time for hugs, easy conversation, and a celebratory toast. The children played in the sunshine, and guests appreciated the shade of the barn on such a warm day, kicking off their shoes on the cool stone floor. We had the best of both worlds, the glorious English countryside with a mediterranean climate!
Simple, thoughtful details
Claire’s bouquet kept things classic: white roses, daisies, and Hidcote blue lavender, chosen to pick up the colour of Russ’s tie. Jars of seasonal flowers in their colour theme added simple, pretty decoration. Everyone gathered round as they cut the wedding cake (a delectable lemony sponge), and the generous slices didn’t last long!
We had such a great day and our guests were very impressed with your beautiful venue.
Claire & Russ
Time to Reflect
Photographs followed in the gardens and grounds, making the most of the sunshine and Cote How’s beautiful setting. With no tight schedule, the afternoon unfolded naturally. Claire and Russ enjoyed a little time to themselves after the hectic buildup to such a big day.
Thank you for a fabulous day
Why Small Works So Well
Claire and Russ’s wedding was a lovely example of why a small Lake District outdoor wedding works so well. The guest list keeps things personal, and the day flows rather than feeling overly choreographed.
On such a happy occasion, the most important thing is spending time with those you love — and letting our beautiful corner of the world do the rest.
Thank you
Thank you to Claire and Russ, and to Steve Rhodes (Sage Green Photography) for sharing their beautiful wedding photographs. The wedding flowers and cake were arranged in-house and supplied by Lilylou’s of Ambleside and Home Bakers Grasmere.
If you’d like to know more about getting married in the Lakes, contact the Registrar Team for Westmorland and Furness. For details about our barn weddings, visit our webpage.
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