The Bishop’s Palace, A Magical, Romantic and Historic Somerset Wedding Venue

This gorgeous editorial was captured at the majestic Bishop’s Palace – who recently joined the Love My Dress Wedding Directory.

Nestled in Somerset’s enchanting countryside, the Bishop’s Palace and Gardens exude a magical kind of otherworldly charm. The intimate Undercroft features atmospheric wooden banqueting tables for up to 108 guests. Delight in exquisite catering, locally sourced and thoughtfully prepared and enjoy this incredible historical location. Situated in medieval Wells, near Bristol and Bath, the Palace offers a very special setting indeed.

This editorial is the vision of Imogen Martin of Luck & Lace who just so happens to also be the Wedding Co-ordinator at Bishop’s palace. Imogen’s set out to create a rich and romantic aesthetic which married the historic significance of this exquisite venue, with a classical elegance. Words by Imogen follow. Enjoy!

Visit the Bishop’s Palace Website

Location

The Bishop’s Palace is a stunning medieval Palace located in the centre of the historic city of Wells in Somerset. It has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years.

Visit the Bishop’s Palace Website

Surrounded by a breath-taking moat with resident swans, visitors can cross a flagstone drawbridge, walk under the portcullis and experience a true hidden gem in the heart of the city.

There are 14 acres of outstanding, RHS Partner gardens to explore, including the beautiful well pools from which the city takes its name, it is a truly magical and enchanting location for a wedding reception. 

Find out more about The Bishop’s Palace

Inspiration & Styling

I am the Weddings Manager for The Bishop’s Palace as well as providing styling and planning support for couples with my company Luck & Lace. I was inspired by the historic nature and beauty of the venue.

Spending time in the stunning gardens led me to take inspiration from the Dutch masters and the richness of Dutch Floral Renaissance Art.

I wanted to create a shoot with a fine art aesthetic creating classically beautiful images, that took reference from the historic nature of the surroundings, but still retained a contemporary feel. Rich, seasonal floral statements, one off vintage dresses and fine art stationery with bespoke drawings of the Palace.

Showcasing local suppliers who all strive to work in an environmentally sustainable way. The luxurious dining inspiration was provided by The French Kitchen, our catering partner based just outside of Wells. 

Enquire With The Bishop’s Palace

Photography

Having collaborated with Gem Hicks in the past I knew she was the perfect choice to bring richness and elegance to the shoot. Capturing some beautiful moments between the couple and stunning golden hour shots.

We wanted to work with a real life couple, Gwen & Maxwell were absolutely perfect and obviously so in love.

Fashion & Beauty

The outfits and accessories were a key part of the shoots visual aesthetic. The beautiful vintage wedding dresses by Ashwell & Co  chosen to promote sustainability in the industry and to be unique.

The statement bridal crowns handmade by Clare Lloyd added a dramatic touch.

Fairtrade handmade fine jewellery by Erica Sharpe, exquisitely hand-crafted using traditional goldsmithing skills from ethically sourced materials. Two looks, one a softer daytime feel, a classic dress with lace and pearl detail combined with the grooms tweed suit.

The other a more dramatic evening look with beaded embellished bridal dress and faux fur vintage stole and a deep maroon grooms suit. Jennifer Dythamcreated a classical look with romantic hair and makeup.

Enquire With The Bishop’s Palace

Floristry

Floral design by Grown Studio Somerset, using sustainable display materials and locally grown elements. A romantic look, wild hedgerow inspiration- blackberry and crab apple.

The floor meadow created around the medieval pillar was a particularly inspired idea from Chloe, to create a romantic whimsical feeling of bringing the gardens into the vaulted undercroft space.