Wedding Reception Styling in Cornwall and Devon

Tides of Elegance

Tides of Elegance

Ocean hues, artisanal details and ethereal bridalwear on the North Devon coast



A dreamy blend of coastal allure and classic sophistication, this styled shoot draws inspiration from the rugged cliffs, rippled sands and wide-open skies of North Devon. Perched above the sands of Combesgate Beach, Watersmeet Hotel offers an idyllic canvas for a relaxed yet refined waterside wedding aesthetic – where natural beauty meets a decadent take on timeless romance.

“We were inspired by a seamless fusion of natural coastal beauty and refined luxury to create an effortless yet opulent mood,” says wedding planner Laura Dalton, who styled the shoot. “Soft sands, delicate cream tones and hues of blue form the base palette, with elegant accents of mauve and subtle warmth to elevate the overall look.”

The flowers reflect the breathtaking shoreline below: delphiniums and roses in oceanic shades of blue and white, with apricot ranunculi and blush-toned antique carnations adding a warm, sandy contrast. The table setting echoes this palette in a serenely styled, textured display – think blue and cream candles nestled among white linens, beige runners and antique hammered candlesticks.

The cake is a dreamy fusion of ombré layers, oceanic hues and delicate shell accents, with sculpted icing that mirrors the movement of the waves. Meanwhile, the stationery suite perfectly complements the aesthetic with soft blue watercolour washes, hand-drawn seashells and clam shell-shaped menus. “Touches of textured paper and a nod to classic deckchair stripes paid homage to the British seaside, with sustainability in mind – every element was fully recyclable,” adds Laura.

Then there’s the bridalwear. From a romantic ballgown with airy skirts and tulle blooms to an ethereal dress with light-catching shimmer, the looks channel the coastal setting through flowing fabrics, soft movement and timeless silhouettes. Paired with a soft Hollywood wave, a whimsical high bun and luminous, modern make-up, the bridal styling is as effortless as a sea breeze. A sandcast engagement ring set with a blue sapphire, along with artisan-made jewellery – all made in Devon – adds a personal, handcrafted touch. The groom’s stone-toned suit echoes the textures and tones of the coast for a look that feels both laidback and elegant. 

From vows to the murmur of the tide to sunlit moments on the shoreline, this editorial captures the spirit of a reimagined seaside romance – where coastal charm meets refined beauty and every detail, from windswept gowns to sandcast rings, whispers relaxed romance.
 
Photography Freeformimages Photography freeformimages.co.uk
Venue Watersmeet Hotel watersmeethotel.co.uk
Styling Kept Weddings with Laura keptweddings.co.uk
Dresses Bridal Reloved Barnstaple bridalreloved.co.uk/barnstaple 
Suit Always Suits You instagram.com/alwayssuitsyou
Hair Hair from the Heart hairfromtheheart.co.uk
Make-up Make-up by Romi makeupbyromi.co.uk
Hair accessories & jewellery The Lucky Sixpence theluckysixpence.co.uk
Flowers Blue Belle Flowers bluebelleflowers.co.uk
Stationery Emma Louise Castle emmalouisecastle.co.uk
Cake Peboryon peboryon.com
Celebrant CWJ Celebrate with Jade celebratewithjade.co.uk
Rings Erin Cox erincox.co.uk
Videography Pete Hill Photo + Film petehillphotoandfilm.com
Models Coral Gracie instagram.com/cgbportfolio 
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