There are some wedding venues that make you want to get your sketchbook out the second you walk through the door.
The Riding School at Calke Abbey is definitely one of them.
In July, I had the pleasure of joining Laura & Declan for their wedding at this beautiful Derbyshire venue, creating live illustrations for their guests throughout the day.
A wedding at The Riding School
The Riding School sits within the Calke Abbey estate and is a Grade II listed barn surrounded by the wider Calke Estate. With its exposed brick walls, high ceilings, oak beams and original features, it has so much character before you even start adding the wedding details.
It's also a really lovely example of a venue that gives you a beautiful backdrop without dictating exactly what your wedding needs to look like.
The space can be styled in so many different ways, which is one of the things that makes it such an appealing wedding venue.
Live wedding illustration at Calke Abbey
For Laura & Declan's wedding, I was there to create personalised illustrations for their guests.
One of my favourite things about live illustration is that it fits so naturally into the flow of a wedding.
Rather than asking guests to stop what they're doing and take part in a formal activity, they can wander over while they're chatting, enjoying a drink or catching up with friends and family.
I'll work quickly to create their illustration, and they can then take it away as a little reminder of the day.
Why live illustration works so well at a venue like this
The Riding School has that lovely combination of rustic character and elegant wedding styling, which I think works particularly well with live illustration.
The illustrations become another little detail within the day rather than something that feels separate from it.
And because every guest illustration is different, you end up with a collection of little snapshots of the people who were there.
A wedding favour with a difference
One of the reasons couples choose live illustration is because it can take the place of a more traditional wedding favour.
Instead of giving every guest the same item, each person receives something created specifically for them.
For Laura & Declan, their guests could watch their illustration being created and then take it home with them.
It's entertainment and a keepsake in one.
Calke Abbey wedding inspiration
If you're considering The Riding School at Calke Abbey for your own wedding, it's easy to see why it's such a popular choice.
The venue is set within the wider Calke Estate, with gardens, parkland and plenty of character surrounding the Riding School. The National Trust describes the venue as a country-style barn wedding setting, while the venue team highlights its historic features and flexible blank-canvas feel.
For couples who want a wedding that feels relaxed, personal and full of character, it's a beautiful setting.
And if you're looking for something a little different for your guests, live wedding illustration makes a lovely addition to a Calke Abbey wedding.
Planning your own wedding at The Riding School, Calke Abbey?
I'd love to create illustrations for your guests.
