IMAGINE THIS
You’ve just said “I do” in a stunning Cotswold stone barn, the candlelight flickers, the champagne flows, and the golden-hour sun casts a dreamy glow over the fields. Later, you sneak away for some epic sunset portraits, then head back in to an unreal feast cooked over open flames. The dance floor? Absolutely electric. And to top it all off – your night ends roasting marshmallows by the fire pits under a sky full of stars. Sounds like your kind of wedding? Then Cripps Barn is where it’s at!
If you’re dreaming of a romantic, rustic wedding surrounded by the stunning Cotswolds countryside, Cripps Barn might just be the one. With its warm stone walls, twinkling candlelight, and rolling green fields, this venue has a magical charm that makes every wedding feel like a fairytale.
As wedding photographers, we’ve captured so many incredible moments at Cripps Barn, from golden-hour portraits that feel like pure magic to candid, belly-laugh moments on the dance floor. Our approach to documentary wedding photography means we don’t just snap posed pictures – we capture the real stuff. The happy tears, the nervous hand squeezes, the wild moves when the band plays your favourite song – all the moments that make your day truly yours.
We’ve captured incredible moments at Cripps Barn. From golden-hour portraits that feel like pure magic to candid, belly-laugh moments on the dance floor. Our documentary approach means we capture real stuff: the happy tears, the nervous hand squeezes, the wild moves when the band plays your favorite song. All the moments that make your day truly yours.
In this post, we’re sharing our best Cripps Barn wedding photography moments. Plus tips on how to make the most of this gorgeous venue. Whether you’re planning your big day here or just looking for inspiration, we’ve got you covered! If you’re still searching for the right professional wedding photographer, we’d love to chat. Let’s make some wedding magic!
KEY FACTS
1. Rustic Elegance Meets Fairytale Romance – Cripps Barn is a stunning 18th-century Cotswold stone barn that blends historic charm with modern vibes for the ultimate wedding experience.
2. Ceremony Perfection – Indoors or Out! – Say “I do” inside the candlelit barn or out in the woodland glade, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Either way, it’s pure magic.
3. The Party Goes On! – With space for up to 200 guests, a 1 AM late-night license, and a dance floor that always gets wild, this place knows how to throw a celebration!
4. A Photographer’s Dream – Think rolling countryside, golden-hour glow, and twinkling fairy lights – everywhere you look is picture-perfect.
5. Show-Stopping Feasts – Forget boring wedding food – Cripps Barn is famous for its open-flame feasts, BBQs, and rotisserie-cooked goodness.
6. Fire Pits, Drinks & Marshmallows? Yes, Please! – As the night winds down, guests gather around the crackling fire pits – a cosy, unforgettable way to end the night.
7 A Dance Floor You Won’t Want to Leave! – Whether it’s a live band or DJ, this barn transforms into a high-energy party – and trust us, the photos are always next-level!
WHY CRIPPS BARN IS A DREAM WEDDING VENUE?
Step inside Cripps Barn and you’ll be greeted by flagstone floors and rustic wooden beams. The soft glow of candlelight reflects off the old Cotswold stone walls, giving it a magical, timeless feel that makes it impossible not to fall in love.
There’s something about Cripps Barn that just feels right. It’s got that perfect mix of cosy, rustic charm and epic, countryside romance. Whether you’re planning a laid-back, boho celebration or a stylish, candlelit affair, this venue adapts beautifully to every couple’s vision.
1. The Setting: Rustic Charm Meets Breathtaking Views
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Cripps Barn is surrounded by rolling green fields and golden-stone villages straight out of a postcard. Every backdrop looks like it belongs in a wedding magazine – and trust us, your wedding photos will thank you for it!
2. The Barn: Intimate, Warm, and Full of Character
Step inside Cripps Barn and you’ll be greeted by flagstone floors, rustic wooden beams, and the soft glow of candlelight reflecting off the old Cotswold stone walls. The barn itself has this magical, timeless feel that makes it impossible not to fall in love with.
WHY WE LOVE IT FOR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY?
- Soft, natural light streaming in through the doors and windows – a dream for documentary-style wedding photography.
- The big, open fireplace makes winter weddings feel extra cosy and romantic.
- Twinkling fairy lights and chandeliers give the space a magical, intimate glow – perfect for evening receptions.
The Outdoor Spaces: Picture-Perfect Ceremony & Portrait Spots
Whether you’re exchanging vows inside the barn or opting for an outdoor ceremony at the Oak Pavilion, Cripps Barn has plenty of space to make your wedding exactly how you want it. And when it comes to couple’s portraits? You’ll be spoilt for choice!
Best spots for Cripps Barn wedding photography:
- The Oak Pavilion – The ultimate outdoor ceremony spot, surrounded by trees and open fields.
- The rolling countryside – Golden-hour portraits here are out of this world!
- The fire pits & terrace – Perfect for fun, relaxed evening shots under the stars.
Whether you’re planning a summer wedding with golden fields and blue skies or a cosy winter celebration with a roaring fire inside, Cripps Barn is an absolute dream – for couples and for photographers! 📸💛
HOW WE CAPTURE THE MAGIC AT CRIPPS BARN?
Let’s be real – your wedding day is going to fly by. One minute you’re slipping into your outfit, the next you’re on the dance floor throwing some questionable moves. And in between? All the little moments that make your day completely, beautifully, uniquely yours.
That’s why our approach to wedding photography at Cripps Barn is all about real, unscripted moments. We’re not here to pull you away from the party for hours of stiff posing. We’re here to capture the big, emotional moments, the tiny, in-between glances, and everything in between – so when you look back at your photos, you feel like you’re right back there.
What Does That Actually Mean?
- No awkward posing, no fake smiles – Just you, your love, and your people having the best day ever.
- We capture it all – big moments & small details – From the first look to your nan losing it on the dance floor.
- We blend in like guests – You won’t even notice we’re there half the time (but don’t worry, we’ll still catch all the good stuff!).
- We know how to use Cripps Barn’s light to its fullest – That dreamy golden hour glow? We’ve got it covered.
Best Spots for Wedding Photos at Cripps Barn
One of the best things about Cripps Barn? It’s an absolute dream for wedding photography. Here’s where the magic happens:
- Golden Hour in the Fields – When the sun starts to set, the surrounding countryside lights up like something out of a movie. Trust us, you’ll want to sneak out for five minutes for some couple shots!
- The Fire Pits & Terrace – Think cosy, intimate evening shots, with drinks in hand and fairy lights twinkling above.
- Inside the Barn – The warm candlelight, twinkling chandeliers, and stone walls create the perfect backdrop for those romantic, just-married moments.
- The Oak Pavilion – If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, this is where the magic happens, with nature all around you.
At the end of the day, we want you to be fully present, soak it all in, and just have the best time – while we capture every laugh, every tear, and every epic moment as it unfolds. No stress, no staging – just real, beautiful, joy-filled memories.
A CRIPPS BARN WEDDING DAY – WHAT TO EXPECT?
So, how does a wedding day at Cripps Barn actually unfold? Every wedding is unique, but there’s a certain magic to the way things flow at this venue. Here’s a little peek at what your day might look like – from the excited morning prep to the wild dance floor celebrations – see our general slideshow:
What if you have a rainy day..? It’s OK to have some of the pictures inside, and remember – it never rains all day!
What if your day is super hot and sunny like this one? Watch this summer Cripps Barn wedding photography slideshow:
Would you like to have some of your pictures taken in Bibury near Cripps Barn?
This is the first wedding we’ve ever photographed at Cripps Barn, have a look:
Slideshow number 5 – one of our favourite wedding dresses ever!
Getting Ready – The Calm Before the “I Do”
Your wedding day kicks off with pure excitement – a mix of nerves, joy, and maybe a little bit of bubbly! Since Cripps Barn doesn’t have on-site accommodation, couples usually get ready in nearby cosy spots like:
- Montreal House (Barnsley) – A stunning spot with tons of natural light (aka perfect for bridal prep photos).
- The New Inn (Coln St Aldwyns) – A charming pub with a warm, rustic atmosphere – great for the groom’s prep!
- Bothy & Sycamore (Arlington, Bibury) – Tucked away in a beautiful countryside setting, perfect for a relaxed morning.
💡 Photo Tip: If you want a mix of getting ready shots from both the bride & groom’s morning, having two photographers is a game-changer! It means both sides of the story get captured without any rush.
The Ceremony – Saying “I Do” in Style
Whether you’re having an indoor ceremony in the barn or an outdoor wedding in the Oak Pavilion, Cripps Barn brings all the romantic vibes.
- Inside the Barn – Think medieval chandeliers, candlelit warmth, and stunning Cotswold stone walls. With space for 120 guests inside (plus extra in the Oak Room!), it’s the perfect blend of intimate and epic.
- Outdoor Weddings – If you’re dreaming of an open-air “I do”, the Oak Pavilion is surrounded by trees, fresh country air, and plenty of space for picture-perfect moments.
💡 Photo Tip: The light at Cripps Barn is incredible – but to make sure you and your partner look your best, stand a little further forward during the ceremony so you’re evenly lit. Trust us, it makes a difference!
Confetti Time – The Ultimate Just-Married Moment
The moment you walk out as newlyweds? Pure magic. Guests lining up, cheers filling the air, and a shower of confetti as you take your first steps together – it’s the kind of moment you’ll never forget!
💡 Photo Tip: Cripps Barn allows only fresh petal confetti, so pick colours that will pop against the stone walls and greenery! Also, tell guests to throw the confetti up, not at your face (we’ve seen too many confetti-in-the-mouth moments 😂).
Reception Drinks & Group Photos – Keeping It Fun
After the ceremony, everyone spills out into the beautiful gardens and terrace, where the champagne flows and the celebrations kick off!
- The Terrace & Fire Pits – A relaxed, social vibe where guests can mingle while the drinks and canapés are served.
- Group Photos Done Right – We keep these fun, natural, and quick – so you’re not stuck standing around while your guests sip all the champagne!
💡 Photo Tip: Want your group photos to feel relaxed and effortless? We’ll plan them in advance and use a few tricks to make sure everyone’s having fun, not just posing stiffly!
Couple’s Portraits – The Dreamiest Golden Hour Shots
As the sun starts to set, it’s time for the magic – just the two of you, soaking it all in, with the Cotswold countryside glowing in the background.
- The Rolling Fields – Wide, open landscapes and golden-hour light = photographer’s dream!
- The Big Barn Doors – That rustic, just-married glow with the fairy lights twinkling behind you.
- The Fire Pit at Night – A cosy, intimate setting for some of the most romantic evening portraits.
💡 Photo Tip: You don’t need hours of couple’s photos – just 10-15 minutes at golden hour is enough to get some truly breathtaking shots!
The Wedding Breakfast & Speeches – Time to Celebrate!
Inside the barn, the long banquet tables are set, the candles are glowing, and it’s time to eat, drink, and be merry!
- The Food? Next Level. Cripps Barn is famous for its incredible feasts, cooked on an open rotisserie and BBQ – expect big portions, top-quality ingredients, and seriously happy guests.
- The Speeches? Pure Gold. Whether they’re tear-jerkers or belly-laugh-inducing, we’ll be there to capture every reaction.
💡 Photo Tip: The best time for candid guest photos? Between courses! When guests are chatting, toasting, and fully enjoying the moment.
The Party – Let’s Dance!
As the sun sets and the candles glow, the Oak Barn transforms into an epic dance floor – and let’s be honest, this is where some of the best moments happen!
- Live band or DJ? Either way, the acoustics in the barn are incredible, and the party vibes are next level.
- Evening Fire Pits & Marshmallows? Yes, please! One of the best things about Cripps Barn is how cosy and fun the evenings feel.
💡 Photo Tip: Want those amazing, high-energy dance floor shots? Forget the bright venue lights – ask the DJ to use warmer tones and soft lighting for the best effect.
And Just Like That… You’re Married!
Cripps Barn weddings are full of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments, and we’re always so honoured to capture them. Whether you’re planning a laid-back summer celebration or a cosy winter wedding, this venue has all the magic you could ever want.
And if you want a professional wedding photographer who knows exactly how to capture it all naturally, we’d love to chat! Let’s make some wedding magic happen. 💛📸
7 TOP TIPS FOR MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR CRIPPS BARN WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
1. Plan for Golden Hour – It’s Pure Magic!
One of the biggest photo opportunities at Cripps Barn? That breathtaking golden hour! When the sun starts to dip, the fields surrounding the barn light up in the most gorgeous, romantic glow.
💡 Photography Tip:
- Schedule 10-15 minutes for a quick golden hour portrait session – you won’t regret it!
- If it’s summer, golden hour happens later in the evening (around 8-9 PM), so plan to sneak away during a break in the reception.
- Winter weddings? No problem! The fairy-lit terrace makes for the dreamiest after-dark portraits.
2. Pick Your Ceremony Time Wisely
Whether you’re tying the knot inside the barn or saying “I do” outdoors at the Oak Pavilion, the time of day can totally change the look of your photos.
- Indoor ceremony? The Orangery-style lighting inside the barn is soft and atmospheric, but standing a little further forward ensures even natural light on your faces.
- Outdoor ceremony? Midday sun can be harsh and shadowy, so consider a slightly later ceremony to get a more flattering, golden glow!
3. Make the Confetti Moment Count!
The confetti toss is one of the happiest, most joy-filled moments of the day – so let’s make it epic!
💡 Photography Tip:
- Cripps Barn only allows fresh petal confetti – so pick bright colours that will pop in your photos!
- Remind your guests to throw UP, not at your face (you’ll thank us later!).
- Want something a little extra? Consider biodegradable confetti cannons for a really dramatic effect!
4. Group Photos? Keep It Fun & Quick!
We totally get it – group photos can sometimes feel like a chore when you’d rather be celebrating with your guests! That’s why we make sure they’re fast, fun, and natural.
💡 Photography Tip:
- Plan a short, essential list of group shots in advance (so no one has to wait around wondering what’s happening!).
- We recommend 8-10 group photos max – that way, we can get them done in 15-20 minutes, and you can get back to the party.
- Let us choose a shady spot if it’s a bright day – harsh sunlight can cause squinting and unflattering shadows.
5. Use the Venue’s Stunning Backdrops
Cripps Barn is packed with gorgeous locations for couple’s portraits, so take advantage of them!
- The Rolling Fields – Perfect for golden hour portraits that feel soft, romantic, and cinematic.
- The Oak Pavilion – A beautiful outdoor ceremony spot, ideal for intimate, greenery-filled shots.
- The Big Barn Doors – Rustic, dramatic, and full of character!
- The Fire Pit at Night – Cosy, atmospheric, and perfect for candid evening portraits.
6. The Dance Floor = Where the Best Candid Photos Happen!
Once the lights dim and the music kicks in, the best candid wedding photos start happening! This is when guests truly let loose, and we’ll be right there to capture it all.
💡 Photography Tip:
- If you want epic dance floor shots, ask your DJ to use warm-toned lighting (instead of harsh blue or green lights that can look unflattering in photos).
- A confetti cannon or sparklers for your first dance? Absolutely YES! It adds so much drama and energy! (But ask the venue first!)
- Let go, have fun, and dance like nobody’s watching – those make for the best shots!
7. Relax and Be in the Moment!
The best wedding photos happen when you’re fully present, soaking in every single second. So don’t stress about the little details – just focus on celebrating, laughing, and loving every part of your day!
And if you’re looking for a professional wedding photographer who knows exactly how to capture the magic of Cripps Barn, we’d absolutely love to chat!
Real Love Stories: What Our Couples Say About Cripps Barn Weddings
We could go on forever about how magical Cripps Barn is, but sometimes, the best way to understand it is through the real experiences of couples who’ve celebrated here. Their words, their memories, and the incredible moments we’ve captured say it all.
Here are just a few of the beautiful weddings we’ve had the honour of photographing at Cripps Barn.
“The Most Laid-Back & Beautiful Day” – Emma & Jake
“From the moment we stepped into Cripps Barn, we just knew this was where we wanted to get married. The fairy-lit barn, the incredible food, and the way it felt warm and intimate but still full of energy – it was everything we dreamed of! Our photographers captured every single moment perfectly – the golden-hour portraits are straight-up movie magic, and we are obsessed with our dance floor shots!”
Favourite Photo Moment: That just-married confetti moment outside the barn – pure, joy-filled perfection!
💡 Top Tip: Don’t be afraid to sneak away for golden-hour photos – you won’t regret it!
“The Perfect Mix of Rustic & Romantic” – Sarah & Tom
“We wanted a wedding that felt relaxed, fun, and full of love, and Cripps Barn gave us exactly that. The ceremony was absolutely beautiful inside the barn, and the party after was just next level – fire pits, marshmallows, and an absolutely insane dance floor! Our photographers were amazing, capturing all the real moments, from happy tears to my uncle’s questionable dance moves!”
Favourite Photo Moment: A sparkler send-off under the stars – literally the most magical way to end the night!
💡 Top Tip: Have a moment just for you two after the ceremony – it’s the best feeling in the world!
“A Winter Wedding Dream” – Sophie & Ben
“If you’re thinking of a winter wedding – DO IT! Cripps Barn was so warm and cosy, with the fireplace crackling and candles everywhere. Our photographers made sure we got the dreamiest, atmospheric shots, even in the drizzle. Honestly, our wedding felt like something out of a Christmas movie, and we wouldn’t change a thing!”
Favourite Photo Moment: A nighttime portrait by the fire pit, with fairy lights glowing in the background – so romantic!
💡 Top Tip: Trust your photographer! Even if the weather isn’t perfect, they’ll create absolute magic!
“Captured Every Moment Perfectly” – Hannah & Matt
“Neither of us are huge fans of posing, but we wanted our wedding photos to feel real. Our photographers made us feel so at ease, blending into the background while still capturing every incredible moment. Looking back at our gallery, we can feel the emotions of the day – it’s like reliving it all over again!”
Favourite Photo Moment: That one shot right after the ceremony, where we just looked at each other, overwhelmed with happiness – it’s our favourite photo ever.
💡 Top Tip: Just relax and enjoy the day – the best photos come when you’re just being yourselves!
WHY WE’D LOVE TO BE YOUR CRIPPS BARN WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS?
Picking a wedding photographer is a big decision. You’re trusting someone to capture one of the most important days of your life – the raw emotions, the unexpected moments, the joy, the absolute chaos of the dance floor – and turn it into memories you’ll treasure forever.
So, why should we be the ones to do it? Well, let’s break it down…
1. We Know Cripps Barn Inside Out
We’ve photographed so many incredible weddings here, and that means we know exactly where to be, when to be there, and how to make the most of every corner of this stunning venue.
- Golden hour magic in the rolling fields? We’ll sneak you out at just the right time.
- Romantic candlelit vibes inside the barn? We know how to capture that warm, intimate glow.
- The perfect confetti shot outside? We’ve got you covered (and we’ll even remind your guests to throw it up, not at your face 😆).
2. No Stiff Posing – Just Real Moments
We won’t make you stand in awkward poses or force you into anything that doesn’t feel you. Our approach is all about candid, documentary-style photography – meaning we capture the real stuff:
- Your best friend wiping away a happy tear during your vows.
- Your parents squeezing each other’s hands as they watch you say “I do.”
- That moment you think no one’s looking, but your partner pulls you in for a quiet “holy crap, we just got married” hug.
You don’t need to perform for the camera. Just be present, soak it all in, and let us handle the rest.
3. We Know How to Use Light to Make You Look Amazing
Cripps Barn has some of the most beautiful natural light we’ve ever worked with, and we know exactly how to use it to make your photos look stunning.
- Soft, flattering light for bridal prep? ✔️
- That dreamy golden-hour glow in the fields? ✔️
- Warm, intimate candlelight during the first dance? ✔️
We don’t just take pictures – we paint with light to create images that feel as magical as your day actually was.
4. We Capture the Party, Too!
Once the music starts and the dance floor kicks off, we’ll be right in there with you – catching all the epic moves, the spontaneous singalongs, and that one guest who’s definitely had too many espresso martinis.
5. Your Photos Will Feel Like You
At the end of the day, we don’t want you to just see your wedding photos – we want you to feel them.
When you look at your album, we want you to be right back there, hearing the laughter, feeling the excitement, remembering how it all felt. Because that is what wedding photography should be about.
TO SUM UP – WHY CHOOSE US?
- We know Cripps Barn inside out
- We focus on the real moments – The tears, the laughter, the spontaneous dance-offs
- We make sure you actually enjoy your wedding
- We offer photography & videography – Want your wedding story told through film too? We do both photography and videography, so you get the full experience.
📩 Get in touch today and let’s chat about how we can make your wedding photos feel like you!💛📸
Final Thoughts – Your Cripps Barn Wedding, Captured Perfectly
Your wedding day isn’t just a series of events – it’s a collection of tiny, unforgettable moments. The nervous excitement before walking down the aisle. That first deep breath when you see your partner. The uncontrollable laughter during speeches. The wild energy of the dance floor when everyone really lets loose.
At Cripps Barn, these moments unfold naturally. The warm glow of candlelight, the golden fields at sunset, the fire pits crackling under the night sky – everything about this venue creates a wedding that’s as breathtaking as it is personal.
And when the day is over, when the confetti has settled and the music has faded, the one thing you’ll have left are your memories and the photos that bring them back to life. That’s why choosing a professional wedding photographer who truly understands Cripps Barn – and how to capture it in all its magic – is so important.
We don’t believe in stiff, awkward posing. We believe in capturing the real stuff – the emotion, the energy, the moments you didn’t even realise were happening. Because that’s what makes wedding photography powerful.
If you’re planning your wedding at Cripps Barn and want a photographer who will tell your story exactly as it felt, we’d love to be a part of it.
