Kirsty & Dan’s Summer Wedding at Rudge Farm
Dorset Wedding Photographers
27 June 2026 | Rudge Farm, Dorset DT6 4NF
The Dorset countryside, woodland vows, a boat ride on the lake and a wedding party feeding goats. Kirsty and Dan’s summer wedding at Rudge Farm had all the ingredients for a brilliant day, with plenty of laughter, beautiful countryside and a dance floor that filled up as the evening went on.
As their wedding photographers, we spent the day capturing everything from the morning preparations to the evening celebrations. Rudge Farm gave us so many lovely places to photograph the couple, their guests, and all the little moments in between.
A summer ceremony beneath the trees
Kirsty began the day getting ready at Hayloft Cottage before joining Dan for their ceremony at the Woodland Sanctuary. Soft pastel flowers and the woodland setting made a beautiful backdrop, while Leigh Coleman’s live music filled the space with a joyful tone as guests arrived before the ceremony.
After the vows came hugs, confetti, and plenty of happy faces. Then it was time for Rudge Farm’s secret weapon, the goats! Guests hand deep in buckets and everyone getting involved feeding the hungry excited goats, lifted the energy even higher which carried throughout the day.
The animals added something special to the experience at Rudge Farm, giving guests another reason to laugh, chat and spend time together. Moments like these are always worth photographing because they show the personality of a wedding, not just how it looked.
Lakeside portraits and time together
One of our favourite things about Rudge Farm is how many beautiful corners there are to explore. The woodland, lake and surrounding garden make the perfect excuse for the couple to take a few minutes for themselves, with plenty of shade to make a real difference on a hot summer’s day.
We photographed Kirsty & Dan's group photos back in the woodland ceremony space, which gave us an opportunity to take a few photographs of just the two of them once their family & friends headed back to the reception. It was a lovely chance for them to enjoy the setting where they said their “I do’s”, with only the rustling of leaves around them.
A little later Kirtsy & Dan ventured out onto the lake in a rowing boat, making the most of the venue and giving them a once-in-a-lifetime moment. We usually spend around ten minutes to enjoy a moment away from the hustle and bustle of the party and create some beautiful portraits of just the two of you.
The rest of the afternoon brought garden games, time by the lake and plenty of interaction with the animals. Having two photographers meant we could cover different parts of the celebrations, catching the louder moments as well as the smaller exchanges happening around the venue.
A marquee full of summer colour
Back in the marquee, the flowers and rustic details carried the summer feel through to the meal. Asado Fire and Kitchen served up fantastic food, and guests had time to settle in, enjoy their meal and catch up with one another.
As the evening unfolded, the celebrations carried on and the dance floor soon filled up. From the hugs and conversations around the tables, to the energy of the evening party, there was always something happening.
One of the most noticeable things photographing a full wedding day is that the cameras really blend in and everyone is fully present. From being there from the start, we are able to quietly capture the joy, love and personality of everyone.
“Phil and Chloe were phenomenal from start to finish- from the engagement shoot through to the end of the wedding day. The photos are spectacular and we couldn’t recommend them enough!”
Planning your wedding at Rudge Farm
Rudge Farm is more than a beautiful place to get married. Set in 20 acres of Dorset countryside near Bridport, it offers exclusive use of the estate, with ten cosy farm cottages providing accommodation for the couple and their guests.
There are three licensed ceremony locations to choose from: the Woodland Aisle, Woodland Sanctuary and Lakeside. You can exchange vows beneath the trees, beside the water or surrounded by the countryside, with plenty of lovely spots for photographs.
The venue is designed for a whole weekend of celebrations, with woodland walks, boating and fishing lakes, a tennis court, games barn, pool room, barbecue areas and space for guests to relax together. A marquee can be set up in the lower meadow for your reception, and there's a courtyard for gatherings before or after the wedding.
Getting married at Rudge Farm?
The team at Rudge Farm helped make the whole day run smoothly. Danielle looked after everyone so well, and it was clear how much care had gone into making sure Kirsty and Dan and their guests could enjoy the day.
Kirsty and Dan, thank you for having us along. We loved photographing your wedding and being part of such a fun day.
If you’re after a team of two Dorset wedding photographers. Our approach is relaxed and full of energy. We'll help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, find time for a short moment away together and capture the people, atmosphere and moments that make your wedding yours.
Planning your own Rudge Farm wedding? Get in touch with us below to check your date. We'd love to hear what you're planning!
Wedding Suppliers
Venue: Rudge Farm Weddings
Photography: pip&clo
Marquee: Taddle Farm Tents
Catering: Asado Fire and Kitchen
Flowers: Coombe Bissett Blooms
Cake: Claire at Caked Patisserie
Band & DJ: Drive Band
Live Music: Leigh Coleman
Hair: Kate Eliza
Make-up: Olivia Sharp
Garden Games: The Hire Barn
Toilets: The Splendid Loo Company
Glassware & Catering Hire: Cudmore
Wedding Dress: Anna Bridal
Dress Steaming: My Bride Dresser
Suit: Frederick L Mabb
Pastries & Coffee: Mulberry Farm Shop