If you love the great outdoors, then you’re going to love today’s truly spectacular styled shoot, complete with rugged Cumbrian terrain, mountainscapes, and picturesque waterfalls. It’s truly breathtaking.
The shoot took place at Coniston Coppermines, which is part of the newly listed UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and we’ve got to say, we think photographer Clare Gelderd did a fantastic job in capturing everything that this wild, dramatic and precious landscape has to offer. Her portrait photography is the stuff of wedding album dreams.
A host of Cumbrian suppliers were brought on-board to dress the venue and craft the most romantic of settings for this beautiful shoot. Coppers and misty blue hues work seamlessly with the rustic styling touches and florals, and in keeping with the carefree, adventurous backdrop – the bride brings relaxed, natural vibes with her tumbling tresses and glowy complexion.
It’s time to stop gushing as we pass the blog over to Clare to tell us more about this unique wedding venue and reveal all the behind the scenes details.
With images by Clare Gelderd Photography
Location
Clare says: Coniston Coppermines naturally attracts outdoorsy, relaxed couples due to its location and the sheer amount of picturesque spaces to explore.
The venue is exclusively yours, giving you a blank canvas to run wild with, whether that’s minimalistic and micro, or collaborating creatively with quirky suppliers.
It truly has it all: accommodation, parking, the backdrop, and a setting you can frame as you feel appropriate.
Inspiration
Mining for copper in the valley dates back to the 16th century and the area continued to be mined until the 1950s. Then, in 1982 the buildings in the valley were purchased by The Coppermines & Lakes Cottages founder, Philip Johnston, who set about a comprehensive scheme of rebuilding, restoration and conservation, which is now a go-to Lake District wedding venue.
I wanted to develop a concept for the shoot that would look to enhance this history. Using a palette of earthy contrasting tones inspired by Coniston Coppermines, alongside some beautifully blousy blue blooms, and a selection of rustic copper and slate textures – we brought the venue to life
Styling
Opulent warm copper, gold and natural shades set against cool green, bluey-grey coloured slate and a waterwheel complement each other, yet bring original chic styling to any wedding celebration.
Important details, including the model’s hair, makeup and attire were crafted to suit a relaxed and energetic day, leaving no restrictions when it came to embracing the great outdoors.
Sitting Pretty and Bluebell & Ivy led on the venue styling and floral arrangements, with beautiful stationery supplied by Fifi Designs. We also featured sheepskins and favours from the lovely Just for Ewe based in Coniston.
The Olde Mill in Bardsea were our caterers on the day and we featured handcrafted canapés presented on slate platters, showcasing how these can be enjoyed indoors or when guests are out exploring the beautifully restored venue and scenery.
The cake was very much a centrepiece, and was in keeping with our concept and the beautifully dressed backdrop of the wedding barn.
Within this peaceful Lake District mountain range, guests are only muted by the romantic softening tones from our harpist, AnnaKate Pearson.
Attire
We featured the most enchanting fairytale bridal gown from Cumbrian bridal studio, A Family Affair, with a twinkling embroidered skirt, soft tulle overlay, and plunging v-neckline bodice adorned with beautiful hand beaded lace appliques.
For the groom, we maxed out on tweed and check with an Eton three-piece suit, also from A Family Affair. This is a timeless design with both vintage appeal and practicality. Created using a herringbone weave of rich wool mix material, the suit will keep you well insulated and will successfully stand the test of time. It’s ideal for country barn weddings.
Beauty
The bride’s hair was styled by Jessica from A Cut Above in Hawkshead to flow with the day and had a relaxed texture.
Our makeup artist, Nicole Gilmour, kept the makeup ‘natural glam’ to enhance the glowing bride’s natural look which worked seamlessly with our outdoors scenes.
Results
We successfully shot the images and videography by CW FIlm Productions between hail showers and sunny spells, capturing an adventurous style of photography. Watch this space for more unique collaborations!