Beautiful 18th-century CourteenHall, in Northamptonshire, is the backdrop for our latest shoot. Set in the middle of 100 acres of picturesque parkland, it has views that stretch for miles. It’s also a stunning wedding venue, family home and working farm (committed to sustainability), all rolled into one.

Weddings are held in the attractive dining room or in an elegant marquee in the gardens. From both locations, you can take in the beautiful seasonal flowers, mature trees and abundance of wildlife at this unique venue. 

It’s also the ideal setting for a selection of our most classically elegant designs. To complement the refined backdrop, our stylists have chosen seven of their favourite dresses. They're all about understated elegance, subtle sparkle and sophisticated silhouettes. A mix of ballgowns, sheaths and A-lines, each one has a touch of effortless style and a look that’s totally timeless…

Subtle detailing

Let’s start with April… The more you look at this seemingly classic A-line the more you discover. A glittering sequin Chantilly layer shines through the embroidered floral appliqués on the magnificent skirt, while the sweetheart bodice has an elegantly regal feel. At the back, there’s classic fairy tale lacing combined with a traditional train that looks magnificent trailing down the steps of this grand manor house.

April wedding dress by Anna Sorrano
Wedding dress featured: April by Anna Sorrano

Blush or ivory?

Beautiful Brixton adds a little more drama to a classic look. This fishtail silhouette features a mix of embroidered and Chantilly appliqués that cover the design from head to toe. They really ‘pop’ against the crisp tulle while the contemporary illusion detailing contrasts with traditional covered buttons. Did we mention this also comes in the most beautiful blush colour, too?

Brixton wedding dress by Viva Bride
Wedding dress featured: Brixton by Viva Bride

The perfect balance

Our Signature Collection is known for its fashion-forward details but stylish Hendrix strikes the ideal balance between contemporary and classic. Made from stretch crepe and lined in soft jersey, this super comfortable dress is covered with ornate embroidered lace appliqués for a luxurious finish. The triple beaded straps are a subtle nod to catwalk style and are an eye-catching feature that will look stunning in your photographs.

Wedding dress featured: Hendrix from The Signature Collection

A classic look

A strapless sweetheart neckline is the ultimate classic silhouette and one that’s ideal for this genteel setting. Anna Sorrano is the master when it comes to modern classics and Michaela is no exception. This true fishtail silhouette is made from ivory tulle with soft embroidered and Chantilly lace running the length of the dress. There’s also just a hint of sparkle from a delicate scattering of sequins. Blooming with intricate petals and flowers, it will look stunning as you wander through the gardens of an idyllic country house.

Michaela by Anna Sorrano Z|
Wedding dress featured: Michaela by Anna Sorrano

Effortless beauty 

Lovely Lorena looks like the epitome of simple elegance, but the calm exterior hides a multitude of clever design features. Underneath the layers of soft tulle and ornate lace appliqués, there's an amazing internal corset for support and comfort all day long. It also features the perfect puddle train. One that's long enough to look striking but short enough to be moveable, manageable and fun!

Lorena by Anna Sorrano
Wedding dress featured: Lorena by Anna Sorrano

Pretty perfect

Theresa mixes sophisticated style with a touch of boho beauty. The combination of lightweight tulle, delicate floral appliqués and flattering angel sleeves is oh-so-pretty. Underneath the detailing, this gorgeous A-line also hides a clever corset that will give you all the secret support you need. Why not add a sparkling Zahara belt and our delicate Calli hair garland too, to take the bohemian feel up a notch?

Theresa by Anna Sorrano
Wedding dress featured: Theresa by Anna Sorrano

Bold and beautiful

Finally, we have Rosana, a ballgown design in classic Mikado. Well, we couldn’t finish without including a skirt that will make you feel like the lady of the manor, could we! The regal ballgown shape is complemented by an intricately embroidered lace bodice, which marries the modern and traditional perfectly. And, as an added bonus, it has hidden pockets, which we know our brides just love!

Rosana by Anna Sorrano
Wedding dress featured: Rosana by Anna Sorrano

Click here to see more of our latest designs then try on your favourites at your nearest WED2B store. Also, for more inspiration, check out our Instagram, Facebook or Twitter pages.