Early November brought soft autumn light, golden tones and a wonderful sense of togetherness to The Great Barn Devon, as Georgie and Robin gathered their family and friends to celebrate their gorgeous wedding day. Following a heartfelt ceremony at their local church, the day unfolded here amongst the stone walls, seasonal gardens and warm hospitality that define a late autumn wedding at the Barn. With natural styling, thoughtful details and a relaxed, joyful atmosphere, their celebration felt effortlessly personal – a weekend filled with laughter, connection and unforgettable food. We’ll let Georgie and Robin take it from here, in their own words…
TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR WEDDING DAY…
Robin & I got married on the 1st November on a perfect autumn day. We got married in our local church around the corner from where we live and then headed to the Great Barn afterwards. From the beautiful venue, stunning grounds, exceptional food and hardworking, wonderful staff it truly was the most amazing day, which we will remember forever!
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE GREAT BARN?
One of my closest friends lives around the corner from the venue, so I had always seen it over years of going to hers. We took one look at the website and knew we had to arrange a visit with Emma and John! The venue and grounds itself are stunning. We knew that having a weekend with all of our favourite people in this setting would be the most special and magical time we would cherish forever. However, meeting Emma, John, Mike and Mims really solidified the decision for us. They are all such kind, friendly and thoughtful people who really go above and beyond for everyone. We felt so at ease and relaxed during the whole planning process. The attention to detail, passion and genuine joy is just incredible.
DID YOU HAVE A THEME OR COLOUR SCHEME?
We wanted to have a simple and natural theme, as the venue is so beautiful we felt it didn’t need to much! Our favourite season is autumn so we had autumnal flowers on the tables, pinecones for name settings, pumpkins placed by the barn door and our signs for the day were a soft brown/orange/ red colour scheme.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR WEDDING OUTFITS…
My wedding dress from La Boutique in Exeter which sells donated wedding dresses and all of the profits go towards the charity, Wedding Wishing Well Foundation. My shoes were the Rainbow Club pearl shoes and purchased from Vinted! My best friend’s Auntie, Kate made all the autumnal bouquets, flowers for the table, buttonholes and flower crowns for myself (and the pumpkins!).
My make up artist was Sophie White and she covers the Southwest. My hair was done by Jade Conibere who is based around Exeter. I discovered both ladies on Instagram and they were incredible. They were so kind and calming, my bridesmaids and I had a lovely morning with them.
WHAT DID YOUR GUESTS EAT AND DRINK?
For canapés we had a veggie option of saffron infused arancini with romesco sauce, Asian glazed pork belly, Brixham crab, lime, avocado and coriander smashed garden pea and broad bean bruschetta. We also had smoked chicken and celeriac remoulade with crispy serrano ham.
Then for our feast we had the low and slow sharing feast board, served with dauphinoise potatoes, roasted winter vegetables and braised red cabbage. Afterwards, we enjoyed the trio of puddings. We chose the lemon posset with shortbread and raspberries, treacle tart with lemon curd and sticky toffee pudding with fudge sauce and clotted cream.
For drinks, we served Austrian beers and prosecco for arrival. We then chose a selection of red and white wine for the tables which we sourced ourselves. For the speeches we opted for prosecco and an Austrian schnapps bottle for each table varying in flavours (and strengths!).
We had guests from Austria, Australia, Scotland, Devon and Cornwall. Every guest spoke to us during the day about the amazing quality of the food. They particularly loved that ingredients were sourced locally and so many people said it was the best food they have every been served at a wedding. A special thank you to Mike for creating such beautiful food which we all adored. He is an incredible chef who has put together a detailed and delicious menu. We honestly could have chosen anything on the menu and had the best meal! Thank you also to Mim and the waiting team for your impeccable hospitality service, you all look after every guest so well and created a lovely atmosphere for our wedding feast and throughout the day.
WHAT DID YOU DO TO ENTERTAIN YOUR GUESTS?
For entertainment we had ‘Nails’ or ‘Hammerschalagen’ in German! We had this out all day and night. Everyone of all ages loved playing this game. For the reception we had the band, The Waves Collective. They had 2 band members perform an acoustic set which created a warm and relaxing ambience alongside canapes and drinks. Then for the evening 2 more band members joined and the party started! Our friends recommended this band from their wedding and they were amazing! They are all such talented performers and brought the energy up. So many of our guests were dancing and commented on how fun the band were!
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE DAY?
Honestly… the whole thing! We can’t stop thinking about the weekend and it fills us with such joy! Reflecting together, we really wouldn’t change a thing- from start to the end of the day it was just perfect.
DO YOU HAVE ANY WORDS OF ADVICE FOR FUTURE COUPLES?
Enjoy the process! It all works out, and you will have the best day (which everyone says… but it truly was!) you will have the most incredible time.
Thank you, Georgie & Robin, for trusting us with such a special weekend – it was an absolute pleasure to be part of your story, and one we’ll remember very fondly indeed. If you’re seeking a venue for your own wedding, please get in touch to book a viewing; we’d be delighted to show you around.
