Embracing the Dark Romance of Autumn: A Throwback to Our Gothic-Inspired Wedding Shoot

As we edge into the season of mist and mystery, we thought it was the perfect time to take a walk down memory lane and revisit one of the most enchanting wedding shoots. We had the honour of being part of a dark, gothic-inspired autumnal wedding at Dunwood Hall in 2021, where every detail was nothing short of spellbinding. From rich burgundy hues to lavish black and gold accents, this shoot embraced the beauty of the season in the most luxurious and daring way possible.

Photographer  Amy Faith Photography

The Venue: Dunwood Hall

Dunwood Hall is a true gem—an elegant and quirky country manor that exudes both grandeur and intimacy. This Grade II listed building, passed down through four generations, is steeped in history and yet offers a modern, eclectic charm that makes it stand out. The stunning 3-acre grounds feature manicured lawns, rose gardens perfect for toasting newlyweds, and an iconic 1920s art deco swimming pool that offers one-of-a-kind photo opportunities. Whether you’re wandering through its secluded spaces or admiring the twisted stone gargoyles and stained-glass windows, Dunwood Hall feels like the perfect backdrop for a wedding steeped in old-world charm with a contemporary twist.

Photographer  Amy Faith Photography

The Cake: A Dramatic Black Masterpiece

No gothic wedding would be complete without a showstopping cake, and this three-tiered creation was a masterpiece of bold design. Adorned with pale pink and burgundy roses, the striking black cake stood as a symbol of the shoot’s lavish and moody aesthetic. It was both edgy and romantic, embodying the perfect contrast between dark and delicate.

Photographer  Amy Faith Photography

Wedding Invites: A Bold First Impression

The invitations set the tone for the whole event, with striking black and gold details, complemented by hints of burgundy and soft pink. This colour palette created an instant sense of drama and opulence, letting guests know they were in for an unforgettable experience.

Photographer  Amy Faith Photography

The Bride’s Gowns and Golden Crown

The bride dazzled in three different dresses throughout the day, each one offering a unique style. Our favourite? An ethereal pale pink gown topped with a bold golden crown, setting a regal and otherworldly tone to the shoot. The transition into party mode saw her change into a more daring gown, paired with black boots for an edgy champagne celebration. The final look, a maroon velvet gown, was dramatically “ruined” as she made an unforgettable splash in the venue’s outdoor pool.

Photographer  Amy Faith Photography
Photographer  Amy Faith Photography
Photographer  Amy Faith Photography

Styling & Décor: Decadent, Dark, and Dreamy

The décor was pure drama—a luxurious mixture of dark and light tones, blending rich textures to create a setting fit for royalty. A burgundy velvet table runner added warmth and depth, while delicate pale pink rose petals were scattered throughout to soften the aesthetic. Large candelabras, black napkins, and gold-rimmed glasses and platters completed the tablescape, offering a perfect balance of gothic opulence and modern elegance. The antique furniture, moved outside onto a grand, royal-inspired mat, provided even more stunning photo opportunities.

Photographer  Amy Faith Photography
Photographer  Amy Faith Photography

A Show-Stopping Confetti Moment

One of the shoot’s highlights was the dramatic confetti shot. Our Burgundy freeze dried rose petals added a rich, autumnal touch to the moment, which took place outside the main entrance to Dunwood Hall. To top it off, an orange smoke flare added an unexpected pop of colour and a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere to the scene, making for unforgettable photos that truly captured the essence of the dark and romantic theme.

Photographer  Amy Faith Photography

Create a Bespoke Confetti Mix

Looking to make your wedding day even more memorable? Our Pick and Mix Petals allow you to create a bespoke confetti mix tailored to your unique colour scheme. Choose from our range of freeze-dried rose or hydrangea petals, selecting up to five different colours to craft a petal combination that perfectly complements your special day. Whether you’re going for bold and dramatic or soft and romantic, we’ve got the petals to match your vision.

This shoot was all brought to life with this amazing team of suppliers:

Photographer & Concept Amy Faith Photography

Venue Dunwood Hall Estate

Stylist Becki Interiors

Event Planner The Event Edit

Model Couple Marilyn & Roland

Long Pink Dress Evie Young Bridal

Short White Dresses Love Frocks

Short White Dresses Boutique Bethany Bridal

Groom Suits Groom Hire

Cake & Cake Pops Cakes By P

Florals Living Colour Flowers

Chair & Table Hire Cestrian Event Hire

Tableware Event Hire UK

Leather Jacket & Stationery Rock Paper Nib

Gold Headdress Carbickova Crowns

A Love Like No Other Banner Daydreamer Creative Studio

Velvet Ribbons Silk & Purl

Gold Table Statuettes & Wall Tapestries Rockett St George

Ring Box Bijou Boxes Ltd

Petal Confetti Petals & Roses

Makeup & Hair Cheshire Bridal Hair and Makeup