A Quintessential English Country Garden Wedding

A quintessential English country garden wedding is the epitome of timeless elegance. Whether held in the grounds of a stately manor, a village church, or a beloved family estate, this wedding style captures the essence of English heritage and romance and calls for a couture wedding dress that exudes the same.

Phillipa Lepley bride Alexandra Dudley.

The romantic story of a quintessential English country wedding is often chosen by Phillipa Lepley brides – a wedding style synonymous with the brand’s signature dresses. When designing, Phillipa takes inspiration from the natural flora and fauna of the British countryside in developing new hand embroidery and sourcing fine French lace or luxurious, patterned floral fabric.

Phillipa Lepley bride Blaize. Photography by Barker Evans.

Phillipa Lepley bride Sophie. Photography by Steph Newton.

An embroidered Phillipa Lepley wedding dress is a lovely choice for an English country wedding. Due to the level of bespoke options available, brides can customise their embroidery to reflect their surroundings, incorporating floral or botanical motifs from the venue – for example, hand-embroidered flowers on tulle can mimic wild meadows, creating a lifelike, organic design. Intricate embellishments like floral appliqués and subtle beading enhance the gown’s depth without overwhelming it.

Phillipa Lepley bride Claire. Photography by Matt Horan.

Phillipa Lepley bride Madeline. Photography by Holly Clark Photography

Similarly, the variety of luxury fine French lace used throughout the Phillipa Lepley collection is particularly suited to the setting. The soft and romantic choice of a lace wedding dress can be a nod to the countryside blooms with intricate floral patterns. This style pairs beautifully with an ornate tiara or a delicate vine headpiece to bring in even more influences.

Phillipa Lepley bride Katharine. 

Phillipa Lepley bride Charis. Photography by Katie Julia.

A lace or embroidered veil with floral or botanical designs can echo the surrounding beauty and add an ethereal touch. Many Phillipa Lepley brides will work with our specialist embellishment team to design a bespoke veil with specific motifs of sentimental significance. A veil is particularly magnificent for a church ceremony to frame you as you walk down the aisle.

Phillipa Lepley bride Harriet. Photography by Daniel Knight Harris.

While traditional white and ivory are timeless choices, an English country garden wedding allows for softer hues like blush, champagne, and pastels, as well as romantic floral-printed silk. Brides may also incorporate 3-D elements, such as a hand-crafted ‘Constance Spry’ rose garland, as seen in a recent collaboration with milliner Rachel Trevor Morgan.

Phillipa Lepley bride Elinor. Photography by Lara Arnott.

For evening celebrations in a marquee or manor house, brides might consider a second look. Options include transforming a classic high-neck bridal top and duchess satin gown by removing the top and adding a satin sash or sparkly belt. Others may choose a bespoke mini, dancing dress or a full-length evening gown.

Phillipa Lepley bride Kate. Photography by David Wheeler.

Phillipa Lepley bride Olivia.

No English country garden wedding is complete without an abundance of seasonal flowers. Phillipa’s favourites include English Roses, particularly David Austin varieties, fragrant peonies, whimsical sweet peas, and Lily of the Valley, symbolising happiness and luck.

Phillipa Lepley bride Talia. Photography by The Springles.

Phillipa Lepley bride Sasha. Photography by Nigel John.

Selecting a couture wedding dress for a quintessential English country garden wedding at Phillipa Lepley is a joyous affair, with endless bespoke options to echo the setting. Phillipa’s team of expert couture consultants are dedicated to designing a bridal look that reflects your vision and the nature of your day.

Phillipa Lepley bride Alex. Photography by QLD Photo.

Phillipa Lepley bride Lily. Photography by Kelly Weech.

Phillipa Lepley is recognised globally as a leading British wedding dress and eveningwear designer, renowned for bespoke couture dresses of the utmost luxury. Her wedding dress shop in London, Chelsea, has over 50 dresses, all of which have been made in England from start to finish at her Atelier.