Wait… a rainy venue visit turned into THIS?! Michelle & Andy’s Stone Barn wedding story will melt your heart…
Michelle and Andy’s story is one of those that feels effortlessly meant to be. From meeting on a night out through mutual friends, to quickly realising they shared the same humour, interests, and even the same social circles, their connection grew naturally into something truly special. It always felt like their paths were destined to cross, and when they did, everything simply fell into place.
Their proposal was just as meaningful. During a birthday trip to New York, after a day filled with unforgettable moments, from cycling through Central Park to soaking in the atmosphere of Times Square, Andy chose a quiet, intimate moment back at the hotel to get down on one knee. A perfect ending to an already perfect day.
Choosing Stone Barn as their wedding venue felt just as natural. Even when they first visited in the pouring rain, the warmth and character of the space stood out immediately. Part of the Cripps & Co collection, Stone Barn is a beautifully restored former agricultural building, full of rustic charm and thoughtful design. The exposed Cotswold stone, open fireplaces, and signature fairy lights create an atmosphere that is both cosy and romantic, while still feeling open and relaxed.
The venue has a distinct ethos centred around simplicity, quality, and experience. Everything is designed to feel effortless for couples and their guests, from the flow of the day to the incredible food, often prepared over open flames. It is a space that encourages people to slow down, connect, and truly enjoy the moment, which is exactly what Michelle and Andy did.
Their wedding styling reflected this perfectly. Soft greens and vibrant sunflowers, inspired by moments shared with their boys, added a personal and meaningful touch throughout the day. The atmosphere was relaxed, joyful, and full of personality, with thoughtful details like games, Lego elements, and bubbles for confetti bringing a sense of fun that carried from the ceremony right through to the evening celebrations.
From a photography perspective, Stone Barn is a venue I always love working at. The way the light moves through the space is something truly special. During the day, soft natural light filters through the barn, gently illuminating the stone textures and creating a calm, inviting feel. As the evening draws in, the venue transforms. The glow of the fireplaces and the warm twinkle of fairy lights create depth, contrast, and an intimate atmosphere that feels almost cinematic.
My approach is always to work with this natural light rather than overpower it. By observing how the light falls and allowing moments to unfold naturally, I am able to capture the true mood of the space exactly as it felt. The result is a collection of images that not only show how the day looked, but how it felt to be there, from the quiet anticipation in the morning to the warmth and energy of the evening.
One of the most meaningful moments of the day came during their first dance to “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran. A song already filled with memories of dancing together at home with their children, it became a beautiful reflection of their journey as a family, bringing everything full circle.
Michelle and Andy’s wedding at Stone Barn was a perfect example of what happens when you combine a meaningful story, a beautiful setting, and the freedom to simply be yourselves. It was relaxed, emotional, full of laughter, and completely authentic from start to finish.