Rumbolds Farm Wedding Photographer: A Romantic Bohemian Barn Celebration
The Charm of Rumbolds Farm in Late Summer
There is something deeply grounding about Rumbolds Farm. Set in the quiet countryside of West Sussex, surrounded by wild gardens and fields that glow gold in the afternoon sun, it is the kind of place that instantly slows your heart rate. For Mary and Chris, it was the perfect setting for the romantic bohemian barn wedding they had dreamed of.
The couple planned their wedding in just nine months, weaving together personal touches, heartfelt moments and joyful celebration with such thoughtfulness it was impossible not to feel the love in every little detail.
A Love Story That Began Over Coffee and Ended With a Ring in One
Mary and Chris met seven years before their wedding, brought together by a project at work. Although they worked in different departments, fate gave them a shared goal and, as Mary puts it, "sparks flew." They officially began dating three months later, once Mary had moved on to a new role.
Their engagement happened in New York, during a Thanksgiving trip. Chris tucked the ring into Mary's morning coffee and asked her to marry him. It was just the two of them, in one of the busiest cities in the world, creating a quiet, sacred moment that would start their next chapter.
Getting Ready: Lace, Flowers and Sentiment
Mary wore a custom gown by Daarlana, a blend of two Pinterest-discovered designs that became one stunning, modest, long-sleeved lace dress. Her crown of fresh flowers, created by her friend Laura at Laura May Flowers (now Wren & May Flowers), framed her face gently, echoing the soft textures of her bouquet and the natural beauty of Rumbolds Farm.
Her veil was a last-minute decision, bought from Reigate Bridal, chosen the morning of the wedding. Paired with her simple brown wedges and delicate Jo Malone Peony & Blush scent, the entire look was elegant, romantic and deeply her.
A Church Ceremony Full of Heart
The ceremony took place at Saint Mary and All Saints Church in Dunsfold. Mary was accompanied down the aisle by her mum, a quiet, powerful moment in itself as her father was too unwell to travel from Australia.
Pachelbel's Canon in D played softly as she walked in. Three bridesmaids read from the Apache Wedding Blessing, followed by a family friend reading 1 Corinthians. The vows were traditional, but the emotion in the room was anything but ordinary.
"Walking down the aisle was both my favourite and most terrifying part of the day," Mary recalls. "My heart was racing, I was doing my best not to cry. But the moment I saw Chris's smile, everything melted away."
A Relaxed Countryside Reception at Rumbolds Farm
From the church, the celebration moved to Rumbolds Farm where the atmosphere shifted into a relaxed and joyful party. Long wooden tables, flower crowns, handmade favours and plenty of greenery brought the barn to life.
Apple crates held family photos. Handcrafted cheese boards, wildflower seed packets and custom tea towels waited at each place setting. The couple did almost everything themselves. Chris even designed the stationery and their wedding website from scratch.
Buzz Events catered the day, serving fresh, seasonal food with warmth and flair. A gypsy jazz group played during reception drinks, their sound drifting across the lawns, and a folk indie band filled the evening air with dancing and laughter.
Can You Have an Outdoor Wedding at Rumbolds Farm?
Yes, Rumbolds Farm is licensed for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, which gives couples the freedom to choose what suits their day best. Many opt for a church service like Mary and Chris, but the barn doors open out onto a wide lawn that can be styled for an outdoor ceremony surrounded by nature.
Whether you want hay bales and festoon lights or something more minimalist, the farm gives you the space to create a ceremony that feels relaxed and personal. And if the weather has other plans? The main barn is full of character and warmth, no compromise needed!
A Semi-Naked Cake and Meaningful Details
Their cake was a semi-naked three-tiered creation from Nikki's Slice of Heaven, decorated with fresh blooms by Laura May Flowers. It was simple, beautiful and full of personality, just like the rest of the day.
Rings were purchased in New York's Diamond District, adding another layer of sentiment to their story. Their transport was a touch of vintage charm, with a classic Bentley and Daimler limo from Premier Carriages.
Golden Hour and Unseen Moments
As their photographer, my approach is always quiet and observant. I step back more than I step in. With Mary and Chris, this allowed me to witness so many small moments that might have gone unnoticed. A brush of a hand. The way Chris looked at Mary when she wasn’t watching. The calm pause they took together during golden hour, tucked away from the music and movement.
Rumbolds Farm gives space for those moments. And for me, as their Rumbolds Farm wedding photographer, it was about gently holding space so those little pieces of magic could unfold without interruption.
Where Is Rumbolds Farm and What’s Nearby?
Rumbolds Farm is tucked just outside the village of Plaistow in West Sussex, right on the Surrey border. It’s easily reachable from London and the South East, making it ideal for weekend weddings with guests travelling in from different areas.
Nearby towns like Godalming, Haslemere and Petworth offer lovely accommodation options for overflow guests, and there’s even a camping meadow on-site for those who want to keep things rustic. You’ll also find charming local pubs, walking trails and views of the South Downs just a short drive away.
Words of Wedded Wisdom
Mary shared something that has stayed with me. "We made a point of taking a few minutes here and there to be alone together throughout the day. It goes by in a blur and you can get swept up in making sure everyone else is having a good time. But those quiet moments, just the two of you, help you remember what the day is really about."
Their advice? Keep it personal. Let the day reflect who you are. And do not worry about perfection.
Why Rumbolds Farm Is Perfect for Relaxed and Romantic Weddings
If you are dreaming of a barn wedding surrounded by nature, with space to truly be yourselves, Rumbolds Farm is a gem. There is a freedom here that allows couples to create something heartfelt and honest. No pretence. Just joy.
Mary and Chris’s day was filled with laughter, thoughtful touches and the kind of love that you do not need to shout about to feel.
Being their Rumbolds Farm wedding photographer was an honour. And if you are planning a wedding here, know this — it is more than a venue. It is a feeling. One you carry with you long after the confetti settles.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Married at Rumbolds Farm?
Rumbolds Farm offers a range of options depending on your guest numbers and the season. As a guide, venue hire typically starts around £4,950 and can go up to £8,000 for larger celebrations with exclusive use. This covers use of the 16th-century barn, beautiful gardens, and on-site facilities including a licensed bar and preparation rooms.
For couples who want the flexibility to style the space themselves — or bring in their own suppliers — it offers incredible value for such a picturesque countryside location. Just keep in mind there may be additional costs for catering, rentals, and marquee hire if your guest list exceeds 100.
Planning Your Own Rumbolds Farm Wedding?
If you are looking for a Rumbolds Farm wedding photographer who will blend in, keep you calm and capture all the moments you might miss — big and small — I would love to hear your story. Let’s create something beautiful together.
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