As we dive into the enchanting Chaucer Barn wedding of Tito and Emily, who exchanged vows on July 20th, 2019, in Norfolk’s picturesque backdrop. Special shoutouts go to Supplier Love members One Curious Dream, whose elegant props added a touch of whimsy, and Poptop, who provided the musical entertainment – what an incredible duo!
The stylishly dressed wedding party stole the show, with Emily’s breathtaking Rue De Seine gown taking center stage. Tito’s dashing tweed suit and the bridesmaids’ charming frocks only added to the overall aesthetic.
Now, let’s talk flowers – those bouquets were nothing short of stunning! And can we please take a moment for the sweet treats on display? A semi-naked cake and a cookie bar, because who doesn’t love a good indulgence?
Katherine Ashdown Photography deserves our sincerest gratitude for sharing these breathtaking images with us, capturing the joy and magic of this unforgettable celebration.
The Proposal
As we embarked on our week-long adventure in New York City in November 2016, Tito was eager to explore Central Park. Our first stop was the majestic Belvedere Castle, where he asked someone to capture the moment for us. As I turned away for a brief second, Tito cleverly utilized the opportunity to get down on one knee and pop the question. The people around us were just as surprised as I was – tears of joy were shed all around. Of course, I said yes! We spent the afternoon basking in our newly engaged glow, sipping champagne at the Boat House while we shared the exciting news with our families. The day’s festivities continued with a romantic rowing boat ride and a celebratory dinner. It was truly an unforgettable experience, one that neither of us will ever forget.
The Vision
As we approached our special day, we wanted to take things at a leisurely pace and savor every moment with loved ones. A relaxed, fun-filled weekend celebration was exactly what we had in mind – no rushing, just enjoying each other’s company. With both of us being easy-going, we prioritized creating a laid-back atmosphere that would allow everyone to unwind and have a blast. To achieve this vibe, we opted for a rustic bohemian aesthetic, with a focus on natural wood tones and soothing beige hues. The following day, we decided to keep the good times rolling with an outdoor BBQ and games session, inviting those who wanted to join in on the fun to do so.
The Planning Process
As we embarked on the planning process, we set aside 18 months prior to the big day. Our decision to celebrate in 2019 held special significance, marking our 10-year milestone as a couple. Throughout this period, Tito entrusted me with most decisions, yet remained actively engaged and informed about my ideas. Interestingly, my sister’s recent wedding experience proved invaluable, allowing her to bring a keen eye for detail to the table. Her wealth of creative ideas was particularly noteworthy, making her an excellent collaborator in our planning endeavors.
Budget
While adhering to our initial budget constraints, we managed to optimize costs by taking on a significant portion of the workload ourselves. This strategic approach allowed us to leverage our own resources and negotiate directly with suppliers, ultimately resulting in considerable cost savings.
The Venue
As we shared a connection to Norfolk, having attended university there, Chaucer Barn in Gresham held a special significance for both of us. With family ties in the area as well, it was only natural that we would be drawn to this picturesque venue. We were so impressed with what Chaucer Barn had to offer that we didn’t feel the need to explore other options – it perfectly aligned with our vision and plans. One of its standout features was its blank canvas, allowing us to bring in our own suppliers and create a truly unique experience. This flexibility was essential to me, as I wanted the freedom to choose the vendors that best suited our style. Additionally, the venue’s accommodation options enabled our closest family members to stay with us, making it an ideal choice for our celebration.
The Readings & Music
As I look back on our special day, one of the most memorable moments was when my Mum took the stage to deliver a heartfelt reading that brought tears to everyone’s eyes. The emotional tone was expertly carried over by my Grandad’s partner, who followed up with a stunning song performance. The musical offerings didn’t stop there, as we had an incredible surprise in store – a singing waiter who not only brought the house down with his dramatic fall after dinner but also broke into song, launching into a rousing rendition of Queen’s ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’. What was even more impressive was that he not only doubled as our DJ for the evening, but also treated us to another amazing performance later on. To top it all off, we had a talented sax player accompanying him, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.
Beauty
I had the pleasure of working with Brooke from boho beauty box to create a stunning hairdo for my special day. Originally booked solid, she unexpectedly freed up space just months prior to the wedding date – I knew I had to grab the opportunity! Her talented touch resulted in an updo that perfectly showcased the back of my dress. I was thrilled with the style she crafted for me.As for my makeup artist, Chloe Kennedy, she and her assistant traveled overnight to be by our side. It wasn’t just a matter of applying cosmetics; they went above and beyond, lending a hand with setup and providing invaluable support on the wedding day itself. And let’s not forget – her own makeup skills are truly remarkable!
Bridesmaids
My sister, Fallon, served as my maid of honour, while six other women – including two childhood cousins and three close friends – completed my bridal party. Despite having a clear vision in mind, I faced the daunting task of finding the perfect dresses for my attendants at a reasonable price. After scouring various online stores, I finally stumbled upon www.bridalglee.com, a website that offered bespoke gowns with a unique twist: they took six to eight weeks to arrive and couldn’t be returned due to their made-to-order nature. With some trepidation, I placed my order, hoping for the best. Fortunately, the end result was well worth the wait. The dresses were nothing short of perfection, perfectly capturing the colour and style I had envisioned. To complete the look, my bridesmaids adorned themselves with foliage crowns and neutral footwear.
Groomsmen
Tito’s brother was the master of ceremonies, bringing an infectious energy to the proceedings. His speech had everyone in stitches, expertly weaving together humor and heartfelt sentiments. The groomsmen, comprising Tito’s brother-in-law and two close friends, completed the stylish ensemble. Dressed in navy trousers, crisp white shirts, and earthy brown shoes, they added a touch of elegance with the ties and matching waistcoats we provided. The overall effect was cohesive and visually appealing, harmonizing beautifully with Tito’s own attire.
Your Outfits & Accessories
As I navigated the world of wedding dresses, I was torn between tradition and something more unique. The first stop on my journey was White Reflections Bridal in Norwich, where I had the pleasure of working with Holly and Carol. Their warm hospitality and laid-back demeanor made me feel at ease, and it was there that I found myself drawn to two dresses in particular. However, as the days passed, my mind kept wandering back to the Sia dress by Rue du Seine – I knew it was ‘the one.’ Despite venturing into a few more shops for good measure, nothing compared to the allure of my dream dress. In fact, I found myself dreaming about it most nights until I finally returned to the store and made it official.For shoes, I opted for understated yet elegant designs that complemented my under-dress without upstaging the star of the show – the dress itself. And with the ceremony soon to come, I knew my footwear would have a limited lifespan anyway, as I planned to shed my shoes and go barefoot for the rest of the night’s festivities.When it came to accessories, I kept things simple yet thoughtful. I chose a pair of diamond earrings gifted by Tito just before our engagement – they beautifully matched my engagement ring and added a touch of elegance to my overall look.Meanwhile, we wanted to stay true to our rustic-chic theme with Tito’s attire. After trying on a few tweed-inspired suits to ensure we hit the mark, we ultimately settled on a stylish three-piece number from Marc Darcy – a perfect complement to my non-traditional dress.
The Flowers
The experience with Katy – Bracken and Twine was truly unforgettable. Having followed her on Instagram, I was confident in her ability to create a stunning floral arrangement that would match my vision. Through extensive communication, I shared numerous ideas with Katy, which she incorporated into a breathtaking mood board that perfectly captured the essence of our special day. The emphasis on natural elements, including plenty of greenery, resulted in a visually striking display that received widespread praise from our guests. As a thoughtful touch, Katy added my Mum’s Saint Christopher pendant to my bouquet as my ‘something old and borrowed’, echoing the sentimental gesture made by my sister at her own wedding the previous year.
The Details & Décor
I took on the task of designing and organizing the wedding invites. Every detail, from décor to logistics, was meticulously planned and executed. While some elements required professional assistance – like larger items such as tables, chairs, and furniture – we cleverly combined borrowed and bought options to achieve significant cost savings. For instance, we repurposed items from my sister’s previous wedding, which not only reduced expenses but also added a personal touch. My dad and grandad even got creative, transforming pallets into a unique bar that will become a staple in our garden this summer. With the help of our families, who lent a hand during setup the day before the big event, everything came together seamlessly – leaving us feeling accomplished and confident on the morning of the wedding.
The Cake
In harmony with the event’s aesthetic, we opted for a semi-naked cake adorned with genuine flowers. To cater to various tastes, we chose a three-tiered masterpiece featuring distinct flavors on each level: lemon drizzle, raspberry, white chocolate, and Victoria sponge. Additionally, we set up a cookie station that was a huge hit!
Your Photographer
We placed great emphasis on finding the perfect photographer to capture our special moments in a beautiful and natural way. After conducting thorough research, we chose Katherine Ashdown, whose exceptional work and reputation stood out to us. Although we didn’t have the opportunity to meet before the wedding, Kathy’s professionalism shone through on the day itself. Despite being self-conscious about posing for photos, we barely noticed her taking shots of us as we were too busy enjoying each other’s company. The end result was a collection of stunning, natural-looking photographs that exceeded our expectations and will be cherished for years to come.
Your Filmmaker
As part of our wedding planning, we opted to hire a videographer to help us relive the special moments from our big day. After researching several options, we were impressed by the work of Browns Films and felt confident in their ability to capture our celebration. What’s more, Tom and Kathy from the company worked seamlessly together, producing a final product that not only met but exceeded our expectations, perfectly capturing the essence of our wedding day.
The Honeymoon
As we prepare for our upcoming honeymoon, memories of our mini moon in the South of France are still fresh. We spent idyllic days secluded in a charming wooden cabin nestled beside a serene river. The tranquil atmosphere allowed us to unwind and reconnect as a couple, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It was delightful to return home and discover that our photographer and videographer friends had shared some behind-the-scenes glimpses of their work while we were away, serving as a lovely reminder of our romantic getaway.
Memorable Moments
As our special day unfolded, the weather played a crucial role. Initially, we were expecting storms all day long, which led us to consider an indoor ceremony. Despite the forecast, the morning had been pleasant, and we decided to set up the ceremony on the lawn, with a plan in place to quickly move inside if needed. However, at around 11am, my mom made the spontaneous decision to relocate the ceremony to the nearby woodland. I was initially concerned, as it meant a 10-minute walk and the possibility of a standing-room-only ceremony indoors if the rain suddenly arrived. Desperate to intervene, I hastily emerged in my dressing gown, trying to stop the commotion. Unfortunately, it was too late – the decision had already been made. But fate smiled upon us; the sun broke through the clouds, casting a warm glow over our woodland ceremony. The dramatic stormy skies and breathtaking golden hour sun created an unforgettable atmosphere. And, as if on cue, a brief shower swept in, leaving us with only a few scattered drops throughout the day. Looking back, it’s difficult to pinpoint a single highlight – every moment was so memorable. Both of us have countless cherished moments from that perfect day, and I reveled in each and every one.
Advice For Other Couples
Savor each instant of your special day, from the initial planning stages to the final farewell. Time seems to fly by, leaving you with cherished memories. As you exchange vows and celebrate with loved ones, try not to get caught up in the whirlwind of activity. Instead, pause and absorb every detail – the laughter, tears, and joy that fill the air. Allow yourself to be fully present in this momentous occasion.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
With a team of talented professionals, Tito and Emily’s special day was truly unforgettable. Behind the lens, Katherine Ashdown Photography captured every magical moment. The charming Chaucer Barn provided the perfect setting for their big day. As they prepared to say ‘I do’, White Reflections helped them find the perfect attire. To bring the couple’s love story to life on screen, Browns Films took care of the videography duties. Adding a touch of elegance and whimsy, Bracken and Twine handled the floral arrangements. Sweet treats came courtesy of The Sugar Craft Fairy, while Boho Beauty Box styled the hair that perfectly complemented Emily’s radiant beauty. As guests mingled and celebrated, Poptop provided an unforgettable saxophone performance, making for a truly memorable evening. With the expertise of One Curious Dream, Anglia Elite, CMA Hire, and @makeup_bychloegrace bringing their unique visions to life, it was clear that Tito and Emily were in good hands. And as they exchanged their vows, Leigh Catering and The Tin Canteen ensured everyone’s taste buds were satisfied throughout the day. To keep the party going, Silver Service Singers took care of the evening entertainment, making for a truly unforgettable celebration. Lou couldn’t help but exclaim ‘How very beautiful!’ at the end of it all.