Summer Wedding Bliss from St Mary’s Iffley to The Isis Farmhouse

There is something inherently magical about an Oxford summer wedding, especially when it combines the ancient, storied stones of Iffley Village with the bohemian spirit of the River Thames. This year, I had the pleasure of capturing Faith and Asa’s day, which felt less like a formal event and more like a sun-drenched festival of love.

Preparations at The Old Parsonage, Oxford city

The day began at the fabulous Old Parsonage, a 5-star boutique hotel set in a historic 17th-century building, It is known for its blend of classic country house charm and chic modern interiors, located right in the heart of Oxford's city center. I love the hours before arriving at the church, you can feel the excitement building as the morning moves on. It’s also a great time to capture some beautiful moments.

The Ceremony: Norman Grandeur at St Mary’s Church, Iffley

The ceremony was held at St Mary’s church in the beautiful little village of Iffley, a 12th-century Romanesque masterpiece. As a photographer, this church is a dream; the sunlight filters through the iconic John Piper stained-glass window, casting a soft, ethereal glow over the nave.

The couple exchanged vows framed by the church’s world-famous Norman carvings and "beakhead" details. After a heartfelt ceremony, the newlyweds exited through the magnificent west door—a perfect "just married" moment.

The Journey: A Scenic Stroll to Iffley Lock

One of the most unique aspects of an Iffley wedding is the transition. Eschewing the traditional wedding car, the entire wedding party took a leisurely 10-minute walk through the quiet lanes of Iffley Village.

This walk is a golden opportunity for candid photography. We captured:

The bridal party navigating the charming thatched cottages.
A private moment for the couple on the bridge over Iffley Lock with the river sparkling behind them.
Guests laughing as they crossed the weir, the sound of the water providing a natural soundtrack to the afternoon.

The Reception: Riverside Revelry at The Isis River Farmhouse

Hidden away and only accessible by foot, bicycle, or boat, the Isis River Farmhouse is the ultimate "hidden gem" venue. Its shabby-chic charm and sprawling riverside meadows offered a relaxed atmosphere that immediately put guests at ease.

The evening unfolded with:

Drinks & Nibbles: Guests enjoyed drinks and nibbles while the sun began its slow descent.
The Marquee: A fairy-lit dinner in the riverside marquee, where the speeches were filled with laughter and views of the Thames.
Dancing: As night fell, the party moved into the rustic Georgian Music Room for a live band and dancing.

This wedding was a testament to the beauty of simplicity—good company, a stunning historic setting, and the timeless pull of the river.

Are you planning your 2026 wedding in Oxford? I’d love to hear about your vision for your day—whether you're dreaming of a riverside stroll or a grand city celebration.