Foxtail Barns provided the most stunning backdrop for Zoë and Oli’s big day. Nestled in the Staffordshire countryside, this gorgeous woodland venue had a relaxed yet elegant feel, with its rustic charm and fairy-tale-like surroundings. The intimate dressing room where Zoë and her bridal party got ready was buzzing with excitement from early in the morning, while Oli and his groomsmen prepped in a cozy hut at The Tawny Hotel nearby. The venue truly came alive as guests started to arrive, greeted by the groom and his party. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, excitement, and anticipation for what was to come.
One of the first things that caught our eye upon arrival was a stunning, hand-carved wooden welcome sign at the entrance, featuring Zoë and Oli’s names along with a gorgeous wolf and deer motif. Later in the day, we discovered that this incredible piece had actually been crafted by one of the wedding guests! How cool is that? It was such a personal and meaningful touch that perfectly set the tone for the day.
The ceremony itself was a beautiful, heartfelt moment shared between two people who, despite claiming to be shy and reserved, radiated joy and love for each other. There were no formal readings, just an honest and deeply personal exchange of vows that had everyone smiling (and maybe shedding a tear or two). As Zoë bounced down the aisle with joy and excitement, the entire room instantly relaxed. It was a gorgeously genuine moment that set the tone for the rest of the day.
One of the most memorable elements of the day? The incredible music choices. As self-proclaimed nerds, Zoë and Oli incorporated some truly legendary tracks into their wedding, including pieces from Final Fantasy X and Lord of the Rings. Hearing Concerning Hobbits float through the air brought back so many memories (and made us all want to go on an epic adventure). The evening playlist had a mix of classic rock, ‘00s goth anthems, and even some festive Christmas hits for good measure—because why not?
The reception carried the same lighthearted and loving energy. Guests enjoyed a delicious wedding breakfast before the speeches began. Geoff and Rona (Zoë’s parents) set the tone with touching and humorous words about their daughter. The Best Men, Jamie and Christian, had everyone in stitches with their stories about Oli, while the groom himself rounded things off with heartfelt gratitude for his new wife and all their loved ones.
As the evening rolled in, the fun continued with a sparkler moment—not just for photos, but for the sheer joy of it! Seeing guests of all ages waving sparklers and laughing under the night sky was such a magical highlight.
With the DJ in full swing, Zoë and Oli took to the dance floor for their first dance—a moment filled with love and a few happy tears. As the evening went on, the party only got better, with incredible music, lots of dancing, and a general feeling of pure joy filling the room. One thing was clear: despite their initial nervousness about being filmed and photographed, Zoë and Oli were completely in the moment, surrounded by the love and laughter of their family and friends.
Later in the evening, we headed back outside for some cool and fun nighttime footage. The shot of the couple holding hands while strutting across the courtyard is one of the coolest we've ever captured. Big thanks to my other half, Sophie, for following behind with a giant floodlight in order to give the scene that gorgeous, silhouetted feel with a perfect little rim light around the couple.
Zoë and Oli’s wedding was everything a wedding should be—fun, romantic, and uniquely them. From the stunning venue to the epic soundtrack and the genuine love shared between them and their guests, it was an absolute honour to capture their day.
To Zoë and Oli—thank you for letting us be a part of your amazing wedding. We wish you both a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and many more nostalgic gaming marathons together!
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