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The Rectory is a Grade II listed property not too far from Stamford, nestled in the quintessentially British countryside. This timeless country house is just brimming with original period features, all dressed beautifully in a palette of classic neutrals and tasteful pared-back styling.
It’s clear to see why bridal house Lihi Hod recently shot their gorgeous new collection of dresses here, creating a sumptuous set of images that are steeped in romantic drama and cradled in warming hues.
After graduating from the leading fashion design school in Israel, Lihi Hod worked for Dior in Paris and alongside notable designer John Galliano before founding her own bridal house in 2010. Since its launch, Lihi Hod has been awarded the “Best Wedding Dress Designer in Israel” not once, but twice. Known for timeless design singing with rich details, the dramatic silhouettes of her gowns are all finished with luxurious fabrics to give each bride glittering confidence and comfort on their most special of days.
Hod’s collections are now sold in stores worldwide and have been a consistent feature at Bridal Fashion Week in New York since 2014. Her collections are split into two; the timeless “Couture” collection which focuses on elegant craftsmanship, and the “Dreams” collection which explores contemporary and playful designs for the more adventurous bride.
Drawing on enchanting literary tales such as ‘The Secret Garden’ and ‘Paradise Lost’, the 2025 collection “Twilight” expresses the essence of timeless beauty and the ethereal innocence of hidden and bountiful blooms. These themes are echoes in the details of design, from delicate floral motifs to soft and draping silks. Each gown tells its own unique story and hopes to spark the imagination of brides drawn to poetic beauty and the meaningful narratives that are woven into each stunning piece.
Shot against The Rectory’s abundant gardens, with the romantic archways framing the pastures beyond, nature is intrinsically entwined with each gown. The trains of the dresses sweep through frames like flowing rivers, each frame capturing movement as if it were a scene in a novel. The Rectory’s iconic vaulted doorway particularly shines here, with the bride looking back from the threshold seemingly about to step into the natural world beyond. Each floral detail of her attire is exquisitely captured, from the fine lace gloves to the shimmering flowers on her skirt, almost echoing the pattern of foliage outside.
The images are so evocative of those fairy tales we all know and love, with winding stairways leading up to tall towers and even a beautiful white horse roaming alongside the bride through the gardens. It’s hard to pick a favourite with such a variety of gowns and dazzling array of shots. The entire collection can be viewed on Lihi Hod’s website, and is well worth a shuffle through even if only to look and daydream.
Completely renovated from head to toe, the attention to detail at The Rectory is startling, just like Lihi Hod’s designs. Most dramatic of all is the glasshouse, with its gorgeous peaked windows freckled with climbing leaves. The many period windows of the property are ornate and pointed, echoing the shapes of a classic chapel and so fitting even more perfectly with each bridal scene. The structured dresses take centre stage here, with light falling from all directions and highlighting the thoughtful design and craftsmanship.
The Rectory has a plethora of spaces that lend themselves to shooting, from the classic structured topiary of the gardens to the panelled window seats. The bay windows are used to their full potential here, lovely light falling beautifully across each ripple of fabric and ringlet of hair. Wall sconces create a soft golden glow in other scenes, catching the glittering sequins of a more sultry gown whilst the fading daylight just highlights its elegant silhouette. Simple yet beautiful, like the property itself.
Organised by Light Locations team member Madeleine, this shoot is quickly becoming one of her favourites for the year. It’s always a delight to see the boundless creativity that comes from our client’s shoots, capturing each location in a new and beautiful light to tell their own enchanting tale.
We recently posted a Q&A with The Rectory owner Emily Taberner, the perfect read for anyone wanting to find out more about this location and how it came to be.
For more dreamy bridal beauty, take a look at our post On Location with Olana at Eagle House.
Loving those warm Autumnal hues? Make sure to download our October Mood Board Wallpaper for free!
On the lookout for your next shoot location? Why not take a look at the Country House Locations we have available to book.
