There’s something about a tipi wedding that just hits different. It’s the kind of wedding that throws the rulebook out the window and says, “We’re doing this our way.” And honestly? I’m here for it. I just love tipi weddings!
As someone who’s lucky enough to be an experienced tipi wedding photographer, I’ve seen first-hand how magical, relaxed, and downright fun these weddings can be. Whether it’s in a field, by a lake, or tucked away in someone’s garden, tipi weddings bring a vibe that’s hard to beat.
If you’re planning one – or even just toying with the idea – let me walk you through why I love them, give you some tried-and-tested tips for making it a smooth, stress-free experience, and point you towards some of the best tipi venues in the North West.
Why I Love Tipi Weddings
Let’s get one thing straight: I’m not ‘anti-traditional weddings’. But I do think there’s something extra special about a day that reflects you – your personalities, your priorities, and your kind of party. That’s what tipi weddings do best.
They’re relaxed, rustic, and feel way more personal than a hotel ballroom. You can bring in your own food, styling, drinks (cheers to no bar queues!), and even handpick the playlist. There’s room for dogs, kids, barefoot dancing – the lot. Basically, you create the atmosphere you want, not what the venue dictates.
From a photography point of view, tipi weddings are a dream. Gorgeous natural light, backdrops galore, and a sense of unpredictability that keeps me on my toes (in the best way). And as the sun goes down and the festoon lights come on? Absolute magic.
Some Brilliant Tipi Wedding Venues in the North West
If you’re not hiring a field or planning a back-garden tipi setup, there are loads of great venues around Manchester, Cheshire, and Lancashire that are designed for tipi-style celebrations.
Here are some I rate highly:
- Bowland Tipis, Clitheroe – Set deep in the Ribble Valley, this spot combines natural beauty with a proper tucked-away feel. Ideal for full-on festival vibes with scenic backdrops for days.
- Gisburn Park Estate Weddings – A Luxury tipi setup with a big sense of occasion. You’ve got rolling parkland, exclusive use, and enough space to really make it your own.
- Oaktree Weddings, Knutsford – Tucked away on a family-run farm, it’s a great blank canvas with proper countryside charm.
- Delamere Events, Cheshire – Lakeside views, full tipi packages, and easy access — great for couples who want nature without the faff.
- The Tipis at Riley Green, Lancashire – Proper boho vibes, already fitted out with fire pits, festoon lighting, and chill-out areas.
- Field and Forest Weddings, Slaidburn – A hidden gem in the Forest of Bowland. Think open skies, forest edges and total freedom.
- Love Tipis at Capesthorne Hall – Ideal if you want festival vibes in historic surroundings – great combo of luxury and DIY freedom.
When booking a tipi venue, consider how “turnkey” it is. Some will handle power, toilets, lighting and layout – others give you a field and let you build the dream from scratch. Neither is better, just depends on how hands-on you want to be.
Keeping Things Relaxed (Even When It’s DIY)
One of the best things about tipi weddings is the laid-back feel – but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s all spontaneous. The most relaxed weddings are the ones where the planning’s been nailed early.
A few ways to keep it chilled:
- Work with experienced suppliers who know how tipi setups work (lighting, weather, terrain – it’s not your average marquee)
- Have a good on-the-day coordinator (friend, pro, or trusted supplier) so you’re not answering questions mid-confetti
- Prep the site in advance – Even if it’s a dry hire field, try and walk the space with suppliers and figure out layout, access, and lighting
- Consider guest comfort – Fire pits, blankets, plenty of seating, loos that don’t feel like Glasto in 1999
Basically: plan well, then let it all go on the day.
Top Tips for a Smooth Tipi Wedding (Come Rain or Shine)
You’ve got the vision – now let’s make sure the experience lives up to it, whatever the weather throws at you.
1. Choose the Right Spot
You can pitch a tipi almost anywhere, but make sure the site is level, well-drained, and easy to access. Avoid sloped fields unless you want the dancefloor to feel like a fairground ride.
2. Be Ready for Weather
Tipis can absolutely work in the rain – just plan for it:
- Hard flooring
- Covered walkways
- Clear umbrellas (they look ace in photos)
- Cosy extras like blankets and heaters
Rainy tipi weddings can feel super romantic and atmospheric – honestly, some of my favourite shots come from these moody, misty moments.
3. Lighting Sets the Tone
From festoon lights to candles, warm lighting makes all the difference. Inside and outside, it adds atmosphere and helps with those post-sunset dance floor shots.
4. Power = Essential
Talk to your tipi provider about generators – you’ll likely need more power than you think, and a backup plan is always smart.
Go Big on Festival Vibes 🎪
If you’re leaning into the tipi wedding energy, why not fully commit to the festival wedding theme?
Ideas I’ve seen work brilliantly:
- Guest wristbands as favours
- Live music from start to finish
- Food trucks and outdoor bars
- DIY glitter stations, flower crowns and temporary tattoos
- Campfire areas and chill-out tents
- Disco balls in trees
It’s playful, it’s unexpected, and it takes the pressure off. Everyone’s there to have a good time – including you.
And yes, wellies and sequins are absolutely allowed.
Tipi Wedding Photography: What You’ll Get From Me
I don’t just turn up and take a few nice pictures of your flowers and a cake. I’ll document the full story – the wind-blown veil, the pint spilled mid-speech, the golden hour snog in the field, the barefoot dancing.
With tipi weddings, it’s all about embracing the imperfect bits. The moments that weren’t planned, but end up being the best part.
If it rains? We roll with it. If the dog joins in the first dance? I’ll be there for it.
Final Thoughts
Tipi weddings are full of heart, light, laughter, and the best kind of chaos. They’re for couples who want freedom, fun, and a proper celebration of their love – not a timeline ruled by venue managers or hotel staff. Can you see why I love tipi weddings now?
If you’re planning a tipi wedding in the North West and looking for someone to capture the full story – from first look to fire pit – give me a shout.
Let’s make something beautiful. Rain, shine, glitter and all.
👉 Get in touch with me here