Set Adrift

Exchanging vows within touching distance of the ocean is the stuff of dreams and ' thanks to the flexibility of celebrant-led ceremonies which can take place in the remotest of locations ' a wedding immersed in natural beauty is a beguiling option for the modern couple. In this styled shoot, Saunton Sands ' a blissful stretch of over three miles of sand, sea and dunes in North Devon ' sets the scene for a wedding where the elements take centre stage.

'This is designed for couples dreaming of a relaxed getaway wedding where they can elope and simply be together in a secret hideaway or have an intimate number of guests,' explains stylist Bridget Scott of Blue Fizz Events. 'We used a naturally built driftwood shack as our couple's retreat. We dressed it with rugs, cushions and throws to give it a touch of comfortable luxury amidst the sand and sea breeze.'

A driftwood ceremony arch bedecked with gorgeous florals frames the Atlantic rollers, making a sublime setting for the vows. 'A palette of natural shades of grey green foliage, soft grasses and creamy blush blooms adds drama and impact to the look,' explains Bridget. 'The bold florals bring structure with effortlessly beautiful combinations of textures and delicate elements.'

A wooden palette and woven seats make for a dream wedding feast on the sands, dressed with natural ceramics, linens and shells alongside a collection of eclectic bottles, flowers and foliage. The seating plan combines gold-edged slices of shell and handmade paper, while the cake is finished with gold dusting, gold leaf, together with flowers and foliage, to tie in with the aesthetic. 'I used a driftwood log as the cake stand as I love adapting found objects that link in with our wild and natural landscape,' says Bridget.

Designed to slip seamlessly into the setting, Bridget crafted the bride's dress from organic stretch cotton and cotton lace to create a fluid look marrying textures and details such as the striking waterfall back. 'I designed this dress to be worn in the elements and to allow my bride to relax in the sea and sand while still looking elegant and romantic,' she explains. From the bronzed glow and warm ombrÃ© shades on the eyes to the tumbling beach waves and intricate, locally crafted jewellery inspired by the sea, this shoot celebrates natural beauty down to the finest details.