Weddings on the summer solstice always have a little extra magic — long golden evenings, warm light, and a relaxed, joyful atmosphere. Lici and Brad’s countryside church wedding was no exception. From a rain-kissed ceremony to a stunning garden marquee reception, their day was filled with meaningful details, laughter, and the most gorgeous summer light.

Wedding couple portrait outdoors with golden hour sunligh

Bridal Prep on a Warm Summer Solstice Morning

I joined Lici for her bridal prep wedding morning, where her maid of honour helped with the finishing touches on her dress. She had such a calm, grounded energy, and the morning flowed so naturally — from the last touches of makeup to a few quiet portraits by the window overlooking the marquee where they’d later celebrate.
We held the first look in the hallway as Lici walked down the stairs, and it’s genuinely one of my favourite photos from the entire day. She looked absolutely beautiful. Even with the threat of rain, it was one of the warmest days of the year, so a mini fan was definitely needed to keep everyone cool.

A Countryside Church Ceremony — With a Perfectly Timed Break in the Rain

Their ceremony took place at their local countryside church — my second time photographing there — and it’s always such a lovely place. The heavens opened just as we headed over, and we all waited under umbrellas for Lici’s arrival. The rain was still pouring as she stepped out of the car, but once we were inside, the ceremony began beautifully. Perfectly timed, the rain stopped just as they walked down the aisle as Mr and Mrs!

A Quick Stop at the Stables for a Meaningful Portrait

Straight after the ceremony, we headed to the stables where Lici’s horses live for a portrait that meant a lot to her. I’m so glad we made it work — we didn’t have long, but the images are worth every second.
Then it was time to head back to the reception for a few more portraits as they walked together toward the garden marquee.

A Joyful Confetti Walk and Garden Marquee Reception

Before the celebrations began, guests lined up for what turned out to be my longest confetti tunnel of the year — fun, slightly chaotic, and full of laughter. After an afternoon of reception drinks, and sheltering from the warm sunshine, it was time for speeches before dinner. The meal was particularly meaningful, as the meat came from their own farm — a beautiful personal detail woven into the day.

Thoughtful Personal Touches Throughout the Day

The reception details were incredible for a back-garden marquee celebration. The marquee was beautifully decorated with rustic wooden tables, soft linens, and flowers dotted throughout. As a farming family, they even built giant hay bales arranged to look like Stonehenge, and set up a pitch-and-putt game in the field where guests aimed for a target — such a fun and unique way to entertain everyone.

Golden Hour Moments and an Incredible Evening Celebration

Once the formalities were over, it was time to really celebrate. Cocktail hour began just as the sun was starting to soften, Aperols were flowing, and we popped out quickly to make the most of golden hour before they piggy-backed their way back to join their guests.

The evening was full of energy — the band were incredible and had absolutely everyone on the dancefloor. And thanks to the magic of the summer solstice, it stayed light for hours. Even when I finished at 9pm, the sun was still glowing on the horizon.

Oh, I do love summertime.