Rhiannon and Maddie met at university badminton trials. Fast forward a few years, and their proposal story is one of those you can’t make up. While staying with Maddie’s mum in the South of France, they went to the Pyrenees to cool off in a glacier melt river. Rhiannon had a “make your own wedding rings” website ready on her phone, but Maddie wandered off after a butterfly. In the end, Rhiannon just held out the ring she was wearing — and Maddie said yes. Crisis avoided, love confirmed.
Getting Ready
They spent the morning at home, chilling with family and friends. There’s something nice about starting the day somewhere familiar before heading out to a venue like Lains Barn in Wantage. It’s close to Oxford, easy to get to, and has that low-key countryside vibe that works for both laid-back and slightly chaotic weddings — in other words, perfect for Rhiannon and Maddie.
The Ceremony in the Main Barn
The main barn at Lains Barn is exactly the kind of space that makes a wedding feel both relaxed and a little bit special. High beams, natural light, and a simple, open layout mean you can personalise it however you like — from flowers to seating to signage. It works for small intimate gatherings or bigger groups without ever feeling crowded. Rhiannon and Maddie’s ceremony felt warm, unforced, and genuinely them — a perfect example of how this space lets couples focus on what really matters: being surrounded by the people they love, in a setting that’s flexible and full of character.
WEDDING DRESSES
Dresses came from Bridal Reloved with Kate’s Alterations. Hair by Beauty Within.
Details, DIY, and Personal Touches
This wedding was full of personal touches. The Bunting was made by Rhiannon’s sister. Welcome sign by a friend Catie. Calligraphy and logo by Maddie’s mum. Cakes were half made by Rhiannon’s sister, half from Black Goo. Even the cake toppers were 3D printed by a friend. Favors were jam made by their mothers. Everyone pitched in to make it feel like theirs. Flowers were by Flowers by Kirsty.
The Wedding Breakfast
The ceremony barn turns into a relaxed wedding breakfast. Lains Barn’s in-house catering team, offers a range of seasonal, locally-sourced menus. Whether it’s a traditional roast with all the trimmings or a more contemporary fine dining experience, the food is crafted to impress.
Outfit Change
After dinner Rhiannon and Maddie changed outfits into two epic colourful suits before we wandered into a nearby rape field for their portrait session. How perfect to match their yellow and green theme!
The Party
With roughly 100 guests for the day and a few more joining in the evening, the energy was high. Instead of a first dance, they kicked things off with a ceilidh at 8 pm — everyone on the floor, everyone laughing, everyone slightly uncoordinated. It set the tone for the evening: informal, fun, and full of energy. The ceilidh band was Melobo.
What I love about Lains Barn Wedding Venue
I find Lains Barn super flexible. You have the option of keeping it casual or going a bit more structured. It’s rural but not remote, and the outdoor spaces mean you can get portraits that feel natural without feeling posed. For couples who want a bit of freedom with their day, it’s ideal.
If you are still looking for your wedding venue, this post might be helpful: Barn Wedding Venues in Oxfordshire.
Suppliers
- Venue: Lains Barn
- Dresses: Bridal Reloved
- Alterations: Kate’s Alterations
- Florist: Flowers by Kirsty
- Hair: Beauty Within
- Cakes: Black Goo & Rhiannon’s sister
- Decor & signage: family & friends
- Ceilidh Band: Melobo