Real wedding: An amazing Oxfordshire barn wedding

Lula and Luke bring a rustic Mediterranean feel to their Oxfordshire wedding at The Tythe Barn

Real wedding: Lula and Luke wedding kiss

Photography: Dominika Miechowska

When looking for real wedding inspiration, rustic barn celebrations are one of the most beautiful – with picturesque surroundings and twinkling lights. And Lula and Luke’s big day did not disappoint. Keep reading for lots of ideas to inspire your own wedding day.

The Perfect Match

Lula and Luke envisaged a rustic reception venue within walking distance of a church, so when they learned that The Tythe Barn and 12th-century St Mary’s in Launton village in Oxfordshire were only separated by a gate and a one-minute stroll, they were sold.

The couple had met through church, so composing their own service and including friends and family in the readings and prayers was very important to them, as was a special piece of music composed by Lula’s dad. ‘At first I felt overwhelmed with emotion, but hearing my dad’s song and having him by my side gave me a sense of calm,’ says Lula.

Real wedding inspiration

Their wedding style was relaxed and very personal, and the guests sat banquet-style under lots of fairy lights in the barn for a romantic atmosphere. ‘We went with a natural, rustic style – a bit like organised mess – featuring lots of flowers and foliage,’ says Lula. ‘And no top table. We wanted to be among the fun!’

There was lots of organisational support from Lula’s stepmother, Ann, who’s a wedding planner, and plenty of creative input from architect Luke, who brought the stationery and reception visuals to life.

There was also a slight Mediterranean theme, a nod to Lula’s Greek Cypriot heritage, including a special cake (with one chocolate tier and one carrot tier). It was subtly decorated in blue and white (the colours of the Greek flag), and the guests also enjoyed lamb fillet skewer canapés.

The glorious grounds of The Tythe Barn provided the perfect backdrop for Lula and Luke’s wedding photos – and the bridal party enjoyed posing during the golden hour sunlight. The guests headed back outside after sundown to celebrate with sparklers – another opportunity for a fun photograph!

The bridal outfit

Lula wowed in a chic Pronovias wedding dress which featured delicate lace appliqué detailing on the bodice. Styled by Wedlock Hair, Lula’s long and loose hairstyle was reflective of the relaxed feel of the day. The rustic theme was incorporated into her bridal look effortlessly with her oversized bouquet brimming with eucalyptus leaves, hanging foliage and an eclectic mix of pretty buds.

The bridesmaids

The beautiful bridesmaids held mini versions of Lula’s bridal bouquet, to tie the boho theme together. And their floor-length midnight blue gowns, with key hole and pleat details were in fact from the high street – ordered from Asos. Which proves that you do not have to spend a fortune to look effortlessly glamorous.

Extra-special touches

‘For favours, we made little bottles of ouzo, with olive oil and rosemary options for guests who don’t drink,’ says Lula. Of course, another fetching nod to Greece. Lula and Luke were not afraid to DIY parts of their big day. ‘Making things helped us stick to our budget and it’s amazing how those personalised mementos are treasured. Hours of measuring ouzo into little bottles, tying ribbons and making labels was so worth it!’

If all this talk of glorious Greece has you dreaming of sunnier climes, why not have a read of our honeymoon adventures in Halkidiki at Danai Beach Resort?