Hannah & Will's Beautiful Outdoor Wedding at the Matara Centre in The Cotswolds

As a seasoned Gloucestershire wedding photographer, I've had the pleasure of photographing some amazing weddings, but there’s something truly special about the Matara Centre in Tetbury, Cotswolds. The blend of history, stunning grounds, and unique vibe makes it a perfect spot for couples and photographers alike. Let me take you through Will and Hannah’s unforgettable wedding day at this magical venue.

The Charming Matara Centre: A Wedding Photographer’s Dream

The Matara Centre, tucked away in the beautiful Cotswolds, is a venue with a fascinating history. Originally a private home, it’s been transformed into a one-of-a-kind wedding venue that mixes traditional English charm with Asian-inspired elements. The result being an enchanting and serene atmosphere that’s perfect for weddings.

The grounds are an absolute paradise for photographers. With its manicured gardens, serene ponds, and lush woodlands, there’s no shortage of beautiful backdrops. Whether it’s the vibrant wildflower meadows or the peaceful Japanese gardens, every corner of Matara Centre offers something special. The highlight is the Asian-inspired courtyard with a large Koi pond at the center, adding a touch of elegance and tranquility to any event.

Getting Ready at the Heart of Matara Centre

Will and Hannah each started their day in the gorgeous Kingscote House at the centre of Matara Centre. This house, with its big windows and tonnes of natural light, was the perfect spot for their preparations. The rooms were stylishly decorated, creating a cosy yet elegant vibe. For me, the natural light and beautiful interiors made capturing those candid, pre-wedding moments a breeze.

The house was surrounded by an explosion of flowers, which added so much colour and extra life to the venue. This floral selection didn’t just make the photos pop; it also set a joyful and festive backdrop for the entire day.

A Ceremony to Remember at Matara Centre

The ceremony took place in Matara Centre’s courtyard, a standout feature of the venue. With the expansive Koi pond at the centre, it was a stunning spot for Will and Hannah’s vows. Guests were seated around the pond, creating an intimate and inclusive atmosphere.

Hannah and Will stood on a pier-esque platform, surrounded by an incredible array of flowers arranged by the talented florist, Jenny. The sheer number of flowers added a burst of colour and life, making the ceremony a visual feast and a dream to photograph. The scent was unreal!

Fun and Laughter at the Drinks Reception

After the ceremony, everyone headed outside the house for the drinks reception. It was a scorching day, and the sunny weather added to the happy and relaxed vibe. Guests were greeted with a selection of drinks and canapés, which they enjoyed while mingling and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

This part of the day was full of laughter and casual conversations, perfect for capturing candid shots. The combination of natural beauty and the joyous atmosphere made for some truly memorable photos.

A Colourful Wedding Meal at The Matara Centre

The wedding breakfast took place in a large room just off the courtyard. This space was beautifully decorated with multicoloured flowers and mismatched candles, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The eclectic decor perfectly reflected Will and Hannah’s personalities, adding a personal touch to the celebration.

Capturing the decor details and the interactions between guests was a highlight. The room was filled with love and laughter, and every moment was a testament to the couple’s joy and the affection of their friends and family.

Heartfelt Wedding Speeches

The speeches were minimal but packed with humour and emotion. Each one reflected the personalities of those speaking. The best man’s speech, in particular, had everyone belly laughing, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere.

Photographing the reactions of the guests and the couple during the speeches was so much fun. These moments of genuine emotion and connection make wedding photography so special, and they were plentiful during Will and Hannah’s celebration.

A Magical Evening at Matara Centre

As the evening progressed, we took some time for portraits in the beautiful grounds of Matara. One of the most unique traditions at the venue is the symbolic planting of a tree by the newlyweds. Will and Hannah planted a silver birch tree, symbolising their love and commitment. Each couple who marries at Matara receives a map so they can visit their tree in the future, adding a real sentimental touch to their special day.

We explored the grounds together, including the tropical palm house, for more couple’s photos. The lush greenery and exotic plants provided a striking contrast to the earlier settings, adding variety to the backdrops of the wedding gallery.

Instead of a traditional cake cutting or first dance, Will and Hannah jumped straight into the party with their family and friends. This laid-back approach suited them perfectly and created a relaxed and joyful atmosphere for the evening. The dance floor was filled with energy and happiness, and capturing these lively moments was a highlight of the day.

My Tips for Future Couples Getting Married at The Matara Centre

Having photographed weddings at the Matara Centre, here are a few tips, from me, for couples planning their big day here:

Embrace the Natural Beauty of this Venue: Matara’s grounds are stunning, so plan for plenty of outdoor photos. The golden hour just before sunset is perfect for portraits.

Personalize Your Decor: The venue’s versatile spaces can be decorated to match your style. Personal touches make your wedding unique and memorable.

Weather Plan: The Cotswolds can be unpredictable, so have a backup plan for bad weather. Matara offers beautiful indoor options to keep your day perfect.

Local Flavour: Incorporate local elements into your wedding, whether it’s in the menu, music, or activities. It adds a special touch to your celebration.

Enjoy the Moment: Take a step back and savour the day. It’s about celebrating your love, so relax and trust your photographer to capture the magic.

Why a Professional Matara Centre Wedding Photographer?

Choosing the right photographer is crucial. Here’s why a professional Matara Centre wedding photographer is the best choice for capturing your special day:

1. Familiarity with the Venue: A photographer who knows Matara Centre knows the best spots for amazing shots and can navigate the venue efficiently, saving you time on your day.
2. Lighting Expertise: Matara has various lighting conditions, from bright outdoor spaces to dimly lit indoor rooms. A pro photographer knows how to handle these conditions for great photos.
3. Attention to Detail: A seasoned photographer captures the small details that make your wedding unique, adding great variety and depth to your final gallery.
4. Storytelling: A professional photographer tells a story through their photos, capturing the emotions, interactions, and special moments of your day.

Final Thoughts from a Matara Centre Wedding Photographer

Photographing Will and Hannah’s wedding at the Matara Centre was an unforgettable experience. The venue’s blend of natural beauty and charm provided a stunning backdrop for their special day. From the serene Asian-inspired courtyard to the vibrant gardens, every detail added to the magic of their wedding. The venue was a perfect choice for Will and Hannah who were opting for a stunning location with less formaility and little touches of tradition without going too heavy handed. As a Matara Centre wedding photographer, capturing these moments of joy, love, and laughter was truly a privilege. If you’re planning your wedding at Matara Centre and need a photographer to capture your day, I’d be honoured to be part of your celebration, ensuring every precious moment is beautifully preserved.