Bohemian Tipi Wedding with a Black Modern Twist
Mr and Mrs Crook
20th July 2024
By the time Jenna and Christians Tipi wedding came around in July 2024, I certainly knew them. Our paths crossed originally when Christian reached out to me to capture his proposal at Cartmel, outside Cartmel Priory Church a few years prior. I vividly remember hiding behind a tree waiting for the proposal to take place, and how perfect it was too! We then explored the quaint, yet well known village, undertaking some super informal couple portraits for the couple to share their news with their loved ones.
Not only did Christian make the right decision getting down on one knee, but it was clear Jenna was impressed with his choice in me (Clare Gelderd Photography) to capture their meaningful moments. It wasn't long after their engagement Jenna reached out asking if I travel and my availability for their planned day. Shortly after, everything with signed and booked in.
Following this the couple decided to have their pre-wedding portrait upon one of their visits to Cartmel again, a fond place for them and their family. We ventured slightly further, to benefit from views towards the Lake District mountains and Windermere Lake. Their energetic dog joined us too on this occasion.
The Couple
Having been together for ten years, this couple defines partnership as being "the best of friends." Their love story began in the heart of Wigan on King Street, where they stumbled upon each other outside a bar - a fateful meeting that led to a lifetime of memories. Despite growing up close to each other, it was pure chance that their paths finally crossed.
The proposal at Cartmel Priory Church in May 2022 was just as special. With the meaningful memories at Cartmel Races, a tradition they cherished together, Christian surprised his bride-to-be with a moment she’ll never forget.
Reflecting on their relationship, the bride said it best: “I’ve been with Christian all my 20s, and I couldn’t imagine life without him. He’s my rock, and we’re just a little odd - but I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
The Setting: A Private Tipi Wonderland
The wedding took place on the couple’s private grounds, in a condensed and thankfully somewhat sheltered field. The towering lit-up tipis providing the perfect cozy yet grand setting, for a Summer wedding in the UK, with its weather challenges. String lights and rustic décor added a warm and intimate vibe, blending beautifully with the natural surroundings. Guests were greeted with a charming mix of wild, free and down-to-earth comfort, where every detail felt personal and inviting.
The aesthetic was tied together with beautiful boho-inspired floral arrangements. The bride’s bouquet, a stunning mix of dried flowers in neutral tones and striking black, exuded earthy charm and understated elegance. Wrapped in natural twine, it perfectly complemented the relaxed, modern, bohemian vibe of the day. The bridesmaids carried smaller versions, with matching neutral tones that popped against their rich black dresses. The colour scheme, a striking mix of black, and natural neutrals, created a cohesive and sophisticated yet effortless look.
The Vision
The couple knew what they wanted. A day that reflected their personalities: laid back, fun, and free of formalities.
To achieve this they opted for, no-table-settings, help-yourself-BBQ, no strict timelines and welcomed their favourite people.
They truly set out to make lasting memories with their loved ones.
And boy, did they achieve it!
The Day Unfolds...
The morning started very warm, so much so the bride got in her dress in the private garden. Nevertheless, in Great British style the wet weather and sudden thunder showers appeared, nothing could dampen the spirits of this crowd though.
The day kicked off with heartfelt vows, leaving to a surprise brass band, bringing sheer joy to the couples exit and confetti aisle.
As the day progressed, guests laughed under the shelter of the tipis, umbrellas in hand, embracing the unpredictability with open hearts.
A BBQ feast - the aroma of sizzling food filled the air as guests helped themselves to hearty portions. Garden games added a playful twist to the afternoon, with everything from giant noughts and crossed to lawn hoops keeping guests entertained between the heavy stormy weather.
Naturally...
Sitting in keeping with the couples aim, we worked to keep the whole day as informal as possible, meaning group portraits were limited and loose. It was all about the enjoyment of the day, spending precious time together and making memories. Whilst ascetics were very fitting, at the heart of this wedding was clearly connection.
This was also seen with their choice of a vintage, audio guest book. Meaning they can listen back to personal messages for years to come.
Well fed...
One thing was guaranteed at this wedding, you were definitely well fed, including the hearty-help-yourself-BBQ, there was a wonderful help yourself dessert table and as the evening progressed delicious stone baked pizzas. There were no restrictions on catering, ensuring all the guests had their stomachs lined ahead of the fun filled evening ahead!
Toasting the joys...
Mr and Mrs Crook, took a modern approach to the speeches, having more than just the traditional speakers. They brought humour, tiers, laughter, and classic photography moments.
Following this, everyone raised a shot glass of Tequila Rose, The Maid of Honour and Jenna's sisters favourite shot. This obviously fuelled the fire for the partying ahead! Many more drinks followed thanks to Shaker Shaker bar too!
Music and Celebrations...
The couple made their exit to the lively tunes of a brass band - a cheerful and energetic send-off that perfectly encapsulated their joyful personalities, and really livened everyone up after a relaxed exchange of their vows. As the evening progressed, a saxophonist took centre stage, setting the tone for a party to remember. The dance floor was alive with energy, laughter, and a sense of carefree celebration as the evening continued with Rock and Soul events.
Shoes quickly came off all the ladies feet, as they opted for an earthy celebration, with no pain!
We all know, you've not been to a wedding, until someone's had a tie fastened on their head! ...
With Party-Sax really setting the tone of the party, I ended up photographing all sorts! It was clear just how much love was within this one Tipi as the dance floor was full and everyone interacted effortlessly. The couple had clearly considered their guest list to enable this to be such a success!
A Wet but Wonderful Finish...
Thunder showers may have been an uninvited guest, but they only added to the uniqueness of the day. The couple embraced the rain, turning it into another memory to cherish. Guests huddled under the tipis, sipping on cocktails, taking shots and sharing stories, while the couple took a moment to soak in the presence of their surroundings with loved ones - rain and all.
Undeniably, Jenna and Christians wedding got even wilder, full of fun, daft antics and the enthusiasm on the dance floor was outstanding.
Towards the evening the couple ventured out for one last portrait moment of them both, in the ever present rain at this point. Never once did the weather put a dampener on their day!
Final Thoughts...
This tipi wedding was more than just a celebration; it was a reflection of a love that has grown and evolved over ten years. It showcased the couple’s fun-loving personalities, their deep connection, and their ability to make the best out of every moment - even under stormy skies and challenges.
From the boho bouquets to the rich green dresses, and the laughter-filled tipis to the thunderstorm memories, this wedding was truly one of a kind. Here’s to a couple who showed us all that love, laughter, and a little rain make for the most memorable of wedding days.
Photography That Captured It All...
Of course I (Clare Gelderd Photography) was an integral part of the day, capturing the raw, candid moments that make weddings so special, also enabling the smooth running of the day throughout challenging weather conditions. The bride shared with me, “Having you capture our wedding made it so special. Your laid-back photography style and enthusiasm were exactly what we needed - especially with the rain and all the madness!”
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