Two Grooms and their Stunning Lake District Elopement
By Caroline
A september morning to remember
Oliver and Michael’s Lake District elopement couldn’t have wished for a finer September day, with not a cloud in the sky. The evening before their wedding, they tucked themselves away in the peaceful village of Haweswater, a secluded spot to relax before the excitement of the day ahead. It was here they got ready, full of anticipation, and met their photographer, Jo, who captured the story so beautifully. Although Haweswater is a fair journey from Rydal, for Oliver and Michael, the travel was well worth it – they had set their hearts on marrying at Cote How.
your intimate elopement at cote how
For some couples, eloping is a secret, revealed later as a surprise for family and friends. For others, it’s about creating a private and personal experience from the very start. Whether you choose to share your plans or not, an elopement at Cote How is about giving you time and space to savour the occasion. In this blog, I’ll take you through Oliver and Michael’s day – from their ceremony to how they celebrated afterwards. I hope it will inspire you if you’re considering a Lake District elopement too!
a calm start to the day
Like most couples, Oliver and Michael felt a few nerves when they first arrived. It’s perfectly natural to worry about remembering the rings! Luckily, they had that covered with a sweet reminder note they’d left by their shoes the night before – a simple but brilliant idea!
On arrival, they each enjoyed a welcome drink before meeting with the registrars. This short chat takes place before every ceremony. The registrars check all the details and talk you through the ceremony plan. It helps settle any nerves and eases you both into the wedding before stepping into the ceremony itself.
Tip: Have a notepad by your bed the night before and write down any last-minute reminders. It will help you get a good night’s rest!
The ceremony
Oliver and Michael loved Cote How for its characterful barn and the beautiful outdoor spaces that surround it. With the September sky clear and blue, it was the perfect setting for their outdoor ceremony in the barn doorway – relaxed, intimate, and close to nature.
One of the choices couples have is whether to include personal vows as part of the ceremony. Oliver and Michael chose to write and read their own vows. It was very moving – so much so that we were holding back the odd tears! It’s these little personal touches that make each elopement unique and memorable.
Tip: Writing your own vows is a personal choice. Keep your vows short and don’t worry about being perfect – authenticity is what makes them special.
relaxing after the ceremony
There’s both a sense of relief and joy once the ceremony is complete. After all the anticipation, the rings are on, and every little detail has fallen into place.
Oliver and Michael marked the occasion with celebratory drinks and were treated to an amazing flyover from the gazebo – a magical surprise. They then enjoyed a relaxed photoshoot along the lake shore of Rydal Water, without the pressure of guests or a busy schedule. That’s the beauty of an intimate Lake District elopement: the day belongs entirely to you.
The adventure continues
Oliver and Michael’s wedding day didn’t end when they left Cote How – they had more adventures planned to continue their Lake District elopement celebrations. With their photographer Jo, they headed back towards Haweswater, making the most of the dramatic scenery. They even paused for a relaxed picnic, soaking up the views and each other’s company in their ‘wedding bubble.’
Tip: Don’t underestimate the importance of photography. Your wedding portraits are memories you’ll cherish forever, and ones you can share with loved ones who weren’t with you on the day.
make the day about you
A Lake District elopement is the perfect excuse to put yourselves first – after all, the day is about the two of you. There’s no need to worry about anyone else’s needs, so it’s the ideal time to indulge in a romantic dinner or overnight stay.
If photography is important to you, it’s worth considering booking your photographer for your entire wedding. Make sure you allow enough time in your wedding package so the photographer isn’t rushed – those extra moments make a world of difference in your memories.
Tip: Think about what matters most to you – and build your day around that. After all, this is your celebration.
An intimate Lake District elopement gives the freedom to plan a wedding day that reflects your relationship. Like Oliver and Michael, you can choose personal vows, capture dramatic photos, and take the time to be together without any distractions. Whether you plan a secret celebration or a relaxed start to sharing your story with loved ones, eloping at Cote How ensures that the day is all about the two of you.
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thank you to:
Photographer: Jo Greenfield
