Great Lodge - Emel & Ross - AXL Photography Ltd

IDYLLIC Great lodge

Steeped in history and nestled in the North Essex countryside Great Lodge with its stunning gardens and adjoining vineyard offers a truly stunning wedding location . The estate has evolved into one of the most exclusive wedding venues in Essex, offering couples a truly idyllic setting to celebrate their special day.

A magical anglo-cypriot celebration

Emel & Ross had such a beautiful August wedding at Great Lodge - one of my absolute favourite venues.

Arriving together early were Emel's extended family who had flow in all the way from Cyprus, the wonderful mix of cultures made for a magically unique day. The beautiful ceremony took place in the walled garden pavilion, adjacent to the lake and bathed in warm very bright sunlight. The ceremony was led by Ross's friend and groomsman who was a celebrant which added a lovely relaxed familiar feel to proceedings and there where many laughs and smiles all round.

The day unfolded with a confetti exit down the aisle and family photos and drinks in the sun followed by couple photos in the adjoin Great Bardfield Vineyard, a stunning meal and very emotional speeches followed by a some golden hour fun with the wedding party , some movement photography and a champagne spray! The evening completed with a stunning first dance and partying the night away in the historic Anne of Cleves Barn - a truly unforgettable day of celebration.

Great lodge - a stunning backdrop

As a photographer, Great Lodge is a dream location and one for my absolute favourites. From romantic walled gardens, willows around the lake and beautiful gardens to candid moments among Bardfield Vineyards grapevines, every corner of this venue offers fabulous spaces for photos. The great thing about Great Lodge is that due to all the other suppliers being bespoke to each couple each wedding is as unique and really reflects the personality of each couple. The estate prides itself on offering an intimate, personalised experience—far removed from the one-size-fits-all production line approach of some dedicated venues.

Golden moments

After the delicious wedding breakfast we enjoyed some very moving, funny and multi-lingual speeches. Then Anne of Cleves Barn transformed into a lively hub of celebration. The barn’s rustic charm paired with modern amenities makes it the perfect space for parting the night away. Before the dancing got underway we got 20 minutes in the golden evening light at the front of the venue as the sun begun to set to grab some romantic couple pics and have fun with the wedding party , including indulging in the movement trend and popping the champagne (ok maybe it was just Prosecco!)