https://www.tomstenlake.co.uk/portfolio-3/A Joyful, Personal Celebration in the Cotswolds
There is something quietly magical about a wedding that feels completely and unapologetically personal. Emily and Airlie’s day at Merriscourt was exactly that, a celebration full of colour, creativity, and genuine connection, set against the soft, rustic beauty of the Cotswolds countryside.
Their story began at university, where friendship quickly became the foundation for something deeper. From day one, they were inseparable, sharing lectures, laughter, and life. It was not until a New Year moment, two years in, that everything shifted. What they had was more than friendship, and from that point on, there was no looking back.
Emily’s proposal reflected everything that defines them as a couple, thoughtful, meaningful, and deeply personal. On a family holiday in Ibiza, she planned a quiet evening on the beachfront, a place that held real significance for them both. What began as a simple photo moment became something unforgettable, as Emily revealed a series of memories before asking the question that Airlie had always known would come. The answer was instant.
A Venue Full of Character and Creative Freedom
Merriscourt is one of those venues that immediately feels welcoming. Originally a working farm, it has been thoughtfully transformed into a collection of beautifully restored Cotswold barns, blending heritage with a relaxed, modern approach to weddings.
Its ethos is centred around flexibility and personality. Rather than imposing a rigid structure, Merriscourt offers couples a true blank canvas. The spaces are designed to adapt, allowing each wedding to feel entirely unique, whether that is through bold styling choices or subtle, intimate details.
For Emily and Airlie, this was exactly what they were looking for. They were drawn not only to the stunning barns and surrounding countryside, but also to the personality of the venue itself. From the moment they discovered it, they felt a connection, a sense that this was a place where their vision could come to life without compromise.
A Celebration of Colour, Creativity, and Connection
Their wedding was a perfect reflection of who they are. Bright, joyful, and full of warmth.
With a palette inspired by their favourite colours, soft yellows, sunflowers, gentle purples, and pastel spring tones, every detail felt considered yet effortless. The styling struck a beautiful balance between simplicity and personality, creating an atmosphere that felt both intimate and full of life.
What made the day truly stand out was the level of personalisation woven throughout. As a creative couple, Emily and Airlie embraced the opportunity to craft elements themselves, adding meaning to every corner of the celebration. These touches were not just decorative, they told their story.
Even their first dance carried that same sense of intimacy. Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Grows) by Edison Lighthouse was more than just a song choice. It was part of their everyday lives, something they would sing to comfort each other, a small but powerful symbol of their relationship.
Moments That Matter
Throughout the day, what stood out most were the in-between moments. The quiet glances, the laughter shared with friends, the sense of calm that comes from being completely at ease with the person beside you.
Merriscourt’s layout lends itself beautifully to this kind of storytelling. From the open courtyards to the soft, natural light within the barns, every space offers opportunities to capture moments as they naturally unfold, without interruption or staging.
As the evening settled in and the celebrations moved into the warm glow of the reception, the atmosphere shifted effortlessly from relaxed elegance to joyful energy. It was a day that never felt rushed, never forced, just a natural flow of moments, each one meaningful in its own way.
A Wedding That Felt Like Them
Emily and Airlie chose their venue because it felt right. They chose their styling because it reflected their personalities. And they chose photography because they wanted their story told honestly.
That is what made this wedding so special. It was not about following trends or expectations. It was about creating something real.
If you are planning your own wedding at Merriscourt, or searching for a venue that allows you to truly be yourselves, it is a place that offers both beauty and freedom in equal measure.
And if your story is anything like Emily and Airlie’s, full of connection, creativity, and quiet, meaningful moments, it deserves to be captured exactly as it felt.
Click here to go back to the main portfolio page