Autumn wedding inspiration with a Jane Austen twist

Be inspired by the romance of Jane Austen and tell an autumnal love story with classically elegant details, golden hues and modern touches

The year grows older, the days get shorter. The sun casts its gentle shimmer across the picturesque gardens of an historic manor house as a bride, bathed in golden light, toys with the silken layers of her gown, a smile playing upon her lips. Inspired by the quintessentially English feel of Midelney Manor, a 16th century Grade I listed manor house with period features and rambling walled gardens, this modern day Jane Austen inspired shoot exudes elegance, grace and femininity, painting a romantic scene for an autumn wedding with a nod to modern-day wedding style.

"The manor's gardens are a suntrap and I wanted to make the most of having this beautiful light available to us," says photographer, Tara Statton. Embracing the rich colours of the season, the florals showcase a palette of browns, muted pinks and opulent golden hues. The striking wild and textured centrepiece features an array of dried and fresh seasonal elements, including foraged bronze beech leaves, hydrangea, roses and pink tinted garden foliage, while quinces that had fallen from the orchard nestle amongst the soft golden tones of the hand dyed muslin runner.

The luxe hand-lettered gold calligraphy and thick paper stock of the stationery echoes the 'Pride and Prejudice' aesthetic perfectly, as does the bespoke hand-painted cameo portrait of the bride using muted watercolours and gold shimmering paint that glints in the light so beautifully. The cake, meanwhile, is a crisp white confection, featuring delicate texture and intricately handcrafted sugar flowers and golden leaves.

The bride's sleek gown with pearl detailing continues the classic mood, completed with an eye-catching crown marrying aged gold foliage, vintage detailing and Swarovski pearl flowers. "The centre stone on the crown was originally a vintage amethyst brooch, and I loved the way it's incorporated into the headpiece as a statement feature," says Tara. The shorter dress, with its gorgeous beading and full skirt, is accessorised with a faux leather jacket decorated with a 'Pride and Prejudice' quote in glittering gold paint, bringing a modern edge to the autumnal scene.

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