Venue Showcase: Oxleaze Barn

With rustic charm and character, this beautifully restored Cotswold stone barn is the perfect place to say your “I Do’s”.

Faye, Head of Oxleaze Barn, tells us more about this wedding venue.

Tell us about yourself!

I’ve been working in the wedding industry for 10 years. Our team have all worked in different sectors of the events industry, so a wedding at Oxleaze is supported by professionals who come from production and design backgrounds too! Our team all have one thing in common – we love the great outdoors. 

What drew you to the wedding world?

We love being part of seeing people’s plans come to fruition – when you chat to a couple at their viewing you hear of all their unique ideas, so seeing it all come together on their big day is so special.

How do you get to know your couples before the big day?

Our viewings aren’t time limited so we spend a lot of time chatting with the couple, hearing about their unique ideas and helping them put their stamp on Oxleaze. We also have a planning meeting with the couple months before the wedding, this allows them to share their worries and concerns as well as making sure we know the individual things that really matter to the couple.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to couples that are currently struggling amidst the COVID-19 crisis?

It’s all about acceptance. You may not have the wedding that you had planned but you committed to each other for so much more than ‘one date’ so remember what’s important, accept the changes and let yourself get excited about making new plans. It’s an opportunity to get creative with changing colour schemes and seasons!

Also, remember we are here to help! We have much more experience in different options for the look and feel of your wedding so pick up the phone to your suppliers and take their advice.

What do you think makes for the perfect wedding?

A shared understanding for the importance of your big day. We love listening to the speeches, hearing everyone’s heartfelt words about how much time and effort has gone into celebrating your relationship. And realizing that this one day is a representation of the future and who will be a part of your journey.

What do you think makes Oxleaze Barn unique?

A wedding at Oxleaze is best suited to couples who want escapism. Although we are just 1.5 hours from London, we are situated on a farm ‘in the sticks’ which makes for gorgeous photo opportunities and guests can make a weekend of the Cotswolds. Our small team all love to hear about the plans for the wedding and we never want to feel like a ‘wedding factory’ with just one wedding per weekend. 

The couple has our undivided attention. It is of paramount importance to us that the couple and the family know the team, from the Shetland pony to the venue staff who manage the day, we want the couple to feel like they have come ‘home’ for their wedding.

What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve had at Oxleaze Barn?

Genuinely every wedding has something about it that ‘wows’ us. It could be the way the barn has been decorated, the menu choice, the dress or the suits! We love that our couples have free reign to make lots of choices about their day, it means no two are the same.

Why should a couple book Oxleaze Barn?

Everything about our venue is centered around family. We like to work with you as individuals rather than it feeling like a business transaction. We are honored every time someone confirms they would like to host their wedding with us and we never forget that. In return, we promise you a fun, relaxed and supportive team to help you navigate your big day.

What is your #1 wedding planning tip for couples?

Look at different photos of your venue in rain and sun. This often takes the pressure off wishing for a sunny day – something no one can control!

What’s the best photo spot at Oxleaze Barn?

The private gardens – stunning all year around and so many different focal points.

What part of your business are you most proud of?

Our team!

How do you feel technology is changing the industry?

It’s brilliant because there are so many apps and websites to help couples research – but don’t forget to speak to suppliers on the phone and meet in person if you can – it’s so important to get along with them!

What do you love about Bridebook?

Community. For clients and suppliers alike. Bridebook allows couples to use one platform to research and communicate with people but it also offers brilliant support to venues and suppliers.

Check out Oxleaze Barn on Bridebook!