Despite the threat of Storm Dave looming on the horizon, we were greeted with the most beautiful sunshine as we arrived at Blackfriars Priory. I’d previously had the pleasure of working here on a photoshoot, but this was my first wedding at the venue, and it was so special to return. The building itself is vast, historic, and an incredibly impressive canvas. The ceiling height alone is breathtaking, perfect for creative couples looking to bring their own personality and unique touches into the space.
Ceremony Flowers
For the ceremony, we created four asymmetric plinth arrangements using a mix of fun, characterful vessels and the most striking seasonal flowers. We were lucky enough to include the very first peonies of the season, alongside delicate sweet peas, gorgeous locally grown blooms, and the most incredible coral and orange butterfly ranunculus. We also used the first California poppies of the year, truly some of the best flowers this season has to offer. Bold in colour, yet beautifully soft and delicate in form.
To complete the ceremony space, we designed aisle meadows that ran the full length of the aisle. These carried the vibrant colours from the front of the room all the way through the space, creating a cohesive, immersive feel. The result was a ceremony full of personality and colour, naturally drawing every eye to the couple.
Bridal Bouquet
Lottie’s bridal bouquet brought all of these elements together, combining the full palette into one joyful, expressive arrangement. It looked incredible against her flowing, billowing dress and effortlessly cool sunglasses. We even had the chance to see the couple together before the ceremony, as they opted for a relaxed pre-ceremony shoot, an unconventional choice that created the perfect opportunity to showcase those bright, bold flowers in their photographs.
Buttonholes
For the groom and groomsmen, we created bespoke buttonholes using the same playful spring palette. These looked fantastic against the groom’s colourful suit, another thoughtful detail that reflected the couple’s individuality and desire to do things their own way.
Wedding Breakfast
For the wedding breakfast, we styled the long trestle tables with bud vases filled with seasonal stems, interspersed with beautifully thoughtful and personal wedding favours. It was clear how much time and care had gone into each and every detail.
We then repurposed the ceremony flowers, moving the plinth arrangements and aisle meadows to the ends of tables and around the top table. This created a stunning, cohesive backdrop as the celebrations continued.
To make the most of the venue’s incredible height, we installed two tall beech trees approximately six to seven feet high, on either side of the top table. Lightly dressed with greenery and soft fairy lights, they added a sense of scale and atmosphere that truly elevated the space.
It was an absolute joy to create these flowers and to work within such an inspiring Gloucestershire venue. If you’re planning your Gloucestershire wedding and are looking for something a little different bold, seasonal, and full of personality, I’d love to hear from you and explore ideas together.
Florist: @femmepetale
Venue: @blackfriarspriory
Photographer: @jessicahopwoodphotography