In this series of blogs we’ve considered our favourite wedding video venues in Devon – and this time we’re looking at a beautiful ‘all-in-one’, Axnoller, near Yeovil. We filmed with Daniel and Zoe last year, and absolutely loved it – so much character, with lovely indoor spaces and the most STUNNING SUNSETS!
Advantages for wedding video in Devon – Morning Prep
There is separate accommodation for bride and groom, so you can both be getting ready on site, but can still be apart. Bridal prep was open and airy – a large cottage with several bedrooms and living spaces – there are large windows at either end of the building, so hair and make-up can have really good light at the same time.
With so much space, it’s great for us and the photographer – we can get fabulous imagery and not be obtrusive in any way. The decoration is lovely and the whole building is bright and airy. And not just the main spaces – we were lucky enough to keep catching Zoe’s mum and dad as they anxiously got ready throughout the morning.
Advantages for Devon wedding video – Drinks
As you can see from the drone shot, Axnoller is a beautiful venue. The large space outside the main function room is lovely. Surrounded by rolling fields, it feels so open and like a perfect countryside location. But there’s an added advantage here of Cotswold style gravel as the flooring – which is great in terms of practicality. Whether it’s been raining, or weeks of desert style sunshine – it’s still pleasant for guests to congregate on and spend time in.
For film and photo, it all looks fantastic as well. The confetti run, straight down from the reception room, works really well – there’s an option to use the steps as well to give some extra depth and height. While group photos can be easily positioned to best suit the sun (it’s not as bad for video, but photographers are obviously very concerned with shadows and squinting during group shots!) – this is really helpful, as a lot of venues only really have 1-2 good group shot locations with the best backgrounds.
Advantages for wedding video – Speeches and Food
Axnoller’s main reception room is beautiful. It is quite a large room, meaning that evening reception elements can be readied during food (excellent for when timings run over and the band need to set up!). The stonework is nicely textured, and looks great in camera, the large double windows are nice, and let in the light nicely – but in the afternoon they’re not bathed in sunlight – so guests aren’t blinded when watching speches (and the background doesn’t get blown out white for filming!)
Small things are stunning as well – the tables and chairs look fantastic without any covering, and the most Axnoller thing of all – FAIRY LIGHTS! The fairy light game at Axnoller is so impressive, just look at the room with the hanging lights, then have a look at the images from the group shots on the fence), and then in the evening, there’s a full network of them outside.
Advantages for wedding video – Sunset
Near the top of the valley, the sunsets are stunning. We had about 45 minutes of golden hour light – and absolutely made the most of it. Filming couples time is always a lot of fun – and by the evening everyone has had a few drinks and is a bit more comfortable with it, so it can be a chance to get some great footage.
With the sunlight coming through the trees, snd over the brow of the hill, looking down into the valley – there are a few options in terms of where to film. If you’ve got 20 minutes, you could probably do cover all the main spaces without needing to rush, as they’re all so close to each other!
Disadvantages for wedding video – Reception
At the opposite end of the all to the speeches, the dance floor is set up. With natural light coming in right next to floor, and fairly light above – it’s a very nice space. Behind the band is a large mirror, which helps expand the space and give some more visual interest. With a fairly wide space, you could comfortable fit 80 dancing guests!
Once it gets dark, if you head outside there are more chances for some couples photos. Once again – fairy lights! The overhead setup looks stunning, and looks even better with a backlight to help frame the couple and make them pop out in the image. Or, moving over to the boundary fence, the lights are larger and have a slightly different colour temperature – but help to make the images look fantastic.
