I’m thrilled to share today’s real wedding feature, which exudes personality, fun, and vibrancy. Ross and Olivia, wonderful couple that they are, exchanged vows on September 1st, 2018, at Prior Park College, followed by a tipi reception at Church Farm in Wiltshire. The heart of their celebration was an eco-friendly and vegan commitment, aligning with their values and principles. I believe it’s essential to stay true to oneself when planning a wedding, and this joyous occasion is a prime example of that.Their festival-inspired day featured a lively party atmosphere within the tipis, adorned with handmade pom poms, whimsical lighting, and gorgeous florals. The use of orange in the ties and bridesmaids’ trousers added a pop of color and style. Don’t miss the spectacular smoke bombs, which created incredible photo opportunities. I’m confident you’ll adore this stylish and meaningful wedding.Kudos to Andrew Brannan Photography for capturing these stunning images of an unforgettable wedding day.
The Proposal
As I stood on a rooftop in Bangkok, bathed in the warm glow of sunset, the excitement of being on a once-in-a-lifetime round-the-world adventure reached new heights. The moment seemed to call for a celebratory release, and with that thought, I took a triumphant leap into the nearby swimming pool, feeling exhilarated by the experience.
The Vision
Our objective was to create an unforgettable experience for all, fostering a relaxed and informal atmosphere where everyone felt at ease. In harmony with our values, we aimed to minimize our environmental impact by reducing waste and showcasing the beauty and flavor of plant-based cuisine. Our goal was to harmoniously blend traditional and alternative elements, combining Olivia’s family’s cherished church ceremony with an outdoor celebration that perfectly reflected our unique personalities.
The Planning Process
Our engagement lasted nearly three years, with a significant chunk spent abroad during the initial five months. While this prolonged period may have been initially daunting, it ultimately proved a blessing in disguise. We enjoyed the luxury of deliberating at our own pace, sans pressure to make hasty decisions. This relaxed atmosphere allowed us to save and plan thoughtfully, ensuring we didn’t have to compromise on our vision. With our priorities in order, we began booking key vendors: the church for the ceremony and the reception venue, both found through trusted recommendations. We also enlisted a friend to cater our event and secured the services of a talented photographer. After careful consideration, we finally landed an exceptional band that exceeded our expectations. Having these crucial decisions out of the way a year prior to the wedding allowed us to focus on the enjoyable aspects, such as selecting beverages and crafting decorations.
Budget
When planning our special day, we set out to stay within a realistic budget of £17,000. Our initial estimate suggested a higher total of £26,000, but after gathering quotes from various suppliers and adopting a cautious approach, we were relieved to find that the final bill came in at £21,000 – comfortably under our target. This proactive planning allowed us to avoid any unpleasant surprises and enjoy a stress-free wedding experience.
The Venue
The majestic architecture of two esteemed locations is worthy of recognition. The historic Church – Prior Park College Chapel in Bath boasts a stunning chapel that serves as a testament to its rich past. Meanwhile, the picturesque Reception – Church Farm in Kington Langley, Chippenham offers an idyllic setting for any special occasion.
The Readings & Music
As Olivia walked down the aisle to the haunting melody of Eva Cassidy’s Songbird, the atmosphere was set for a memorable celebration. Following the ceremony, the energy shifted as we stepped out into the sunlight to the upbeat rhythms of Florence and the Machine’s You’ve Got The Love. The church’s organist skillfully accompanied our special hymns, featuring Here I Am Lord, Shine Jesus Shine, and Lord of the Dance. The readings were a thoughtful blend of the Song of Songs and Psalm 127, alongside the gospel according to John 2:1-11. But perhaps the highlight of the day was the performance by Soultown, a talented Bristol-based soul and funk cover band that had our dance floor packed and lively all evening – we highly recommend them!
Your Outfits & Accessories
The Canadian designer Mikealla’s dress was purchased from Flossy and Willow in Bradford-on-Avon, chosen for its understated elegance and simplicity. After trying on various dresses adorned with beading, textures, and lace, I discovered that a simple crepe material that hugged my figure like silk flattered me best. Opting for an open back and high neck to complement the dramatic design, I added a satin sash tied with a bow at the back and tiny pearl beading around my waist and straps, bringing the dress together while maintaining its classy appeal. The veil from JJ’s House, a steal at £19, was a cathedral length, adding drama as I walked down the aisle. Shoes were another £19 find from New Look, featuring high block heels for walking on grass. Later, I swapped into fresh white Vans for the dance floor.Ross’ suit, a blue tweed 3-piece number hired from Vintage Suit Hire, was my only compromise. Initially, I aimed to avoid animal fibres but found it impossible to find a manmade fibre suit that met my standards. My father-in-law suggested hiring a suit, which eventually seemed like the best idea, as we could enjoy high-quality, reusable suits while aligning with our environmental concerns. Vintage Suit Hire provided excellent customer service, treating us like royalty during the initial fitting stage and delivering the suits three days prior to the wedding. Replacement sizes were quickly dispatched without issue. My shoes from Will’s Vegan Shoes were surprisingly comfortable, almost like wearing slippers.
Beauty
Jessica Graham of BA1 Hair in Bath worked with a talented team to create a stunning look that perfectly blended hair and makeup expertise. The secret to their success lay in the use of Urban Decay products, but with a twist – they took matters into their own hands and crafted their own unique looks, rather than relying on someone else’s skills. This approach allowed them to achieve a natural yet striking appearance that felt effortlessly elegant. By opting for vegan and cruelty-free products, they were able to prioritize not only their own comfort but also the well-being of all involved in the process.
The Cake
Our recent collaboration with talented baker Kelly from Bake It Til You Make It resulted in a stunning vegan lemon and blueberry cake. What’s more, we incorporated the same beautiful flowers used by our florist to add a touch of rustic charm. The goal was to create a simple yet visually appealing display that showcases the rich flavors of vegan cake.
The Flowers
We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Jordan, whose creative genius brought together two seemingly disparate elements: our casual outdoor reception and the traditional church setting. Her stunning presentation of trees and wildflowers not only wowed us but also cleverly bridged the gap between these two spaces. The vibrant blooms were so lush and full that they seemed to bring a slice of sunshine into every corner, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. One of the most impressive aspects was Jordan’s team’s dedication to reusing the flowers by carefully transporting them from the church to the reception venue. And as if all this weren’t enough, the high-quality blooms lasted well beyond our special day, continuing to delight us for weeks to come.
The Details & Décor
We opted for striking Nordic tipis from Buffalo Tipi, which required minimal decoration to make them truly remarkable. Our reception venue advised us to keep decor simple, focusing on large statement pieces and flowers. We took this approach, repurposing flowers and trees from the church into stunning table decorations and creating a rustic flower arch that guests walked through upon entering the venue. To illuminate the expansive outdoor space, we hired festoon lights, poles, and coloured uplighters from Light Fantastic in Melksham – an incredibly laid-back supplier who went above and beyond to accommodate our last-minute changes.Our most ambitious project was crafting a show-stopping pompom sunburst with a disco ball at its center. It sounds absurd, but it was indeed breathtaking. We spent months creating 405 individual pompoms, sewing them onto clear fishing wire to form the ‘sun ray’ strips. The end result was well worth the effort.We also took matters into our own hands by building and stocking the bar ourselves – a decision driven by our desire for total control over its size and shape, given the limited space within the tipis. Our seating plan and schedule for the day were displayed on two pallets, which we painted with chalk paint to maintain simplicity and affordability.Guests were treated to a glitter station and an outdoor games area featuring giant Jenga, boules, and frisbee. We also ordered smoke bombs online to make a memorable entrance when we arrived at the wedding venue and as we ‘opened the festival’ upon entering the reception – with spares available for our photos, expertly captured by Andrew.
Bridesmaids
I was determined to break away from traditional bridesmaid attire and opted for a unique approach. The two-piece outfits I chose for my attendants were designed by Zara (trousers) and I Saw It First (bodysuits), with their own shoes completing the look. For my little bridesmaid, I selected a stunning Monsoon dress and created her headdress myself. Orange was the colour scheme of choice, but finding non-traditional dresses that fit this vision proved challenging. The girls initially loved the idea of two-piece or jumpsuit ensembles, which ultimately won out. The trousers cost £40 and the bodysuits £15, with a small sash added to soften the waistline for a more flattering effect. Despite being unconventional, the overall look worked beautifully in the church and blended seamlessly into the outdoor setting.
Groomsmen
For discerning gentlemen seeking to evoke the timeless elegance of bygone eras, The Vintage Suit Hire Company presents its exquisite Southwold collection. Inspired by the refined sophistication of mid-century modernism, these expertly crafted suits transport wearers back in time to an era of debonair charm and suave sophistication. Each carefully curated piece is a masterclass in understated luxury, with subtle nods to the classic styles that have made vintage fashion a beloved staple of contemporary menswear. With the Southwold collection, The Vintage Suit Hire Company offers a unique opportunity for modern gentlemen to channel their inner dapper gent from yesteryear, perfect for special occasions or simply making a stylish statement in everyday life.
Your Photographer
Andrew Brannan, a local talent from Bath, demonstrated exceptional understanding of our vision and goals for the day. His photographs are stunning, perfectly capturing the essence of our special moment. We’re thrilled with the outcome and are now struggling to narrow down our favorites for printing!
From initial contact, Andrew was prompt in his responses and took a genuine interest in getting to know us, which put us at ease with him and his camera. He welcomed any ideas we had and expertly transformed them into visually stunning works of art. With an eye on the clock, he efficiently captured every photo on our wish list.
Andrew’s interpersonal skills were impressive, effortlessly organizing friends and family for photos while also being mindful of our time constraints. This was particularly reassuring on our busy wedding day.
Moreover, despite the numerous photographs taken, we barely noticed Andrew’s presence – a testament to his discretion and exceptional photography skills. His ability to strike this balance gave us complete confidence in him throughout the day.
In short, we couldn’t be happier with Andrew’s services and would wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking a talented photographer.
Your Filmmaker
The Honeymoon
We embarked on an unconventional three-week journey, dividing our time between Malaysian Borneo and Bali. In a deliberate departure from the traditional all-inclusive honeymoon experience, we opted for a tailored adventure that allowed us to explore long-held aspirations. Through STA Travel, we collaborated with G-Adventures to craft a 7-day itinerary that immersed us in the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and diverse wildlife of northern Borneo. Our expedition took us on river safaris where we spotted wild orangutans, tropical birds, and crocodiles; visited Turtle Island for a poignant release of 10 baby turtles into their natural habitat; and engaged with local communities by cooking authentic cuisine. The adventure then unfolded in our own direction as we tackled Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. In Bali, we shifted gears to indulge in shopping and gastronomic pursuits, spreading our time across three distinct regions: Ubud, Canggu, and Ulluwatu. This phase of our journey was characterized by relaxation and indulgence, where we savored the local cuisine at various cafes, sipped cocktails while taking in perfect sunsets, and reveled in the laid-back atmosphere.
Memorable Moments
As we kicked off our celebration, a dramatic smoke bomb display set the tone for an unforgettable day. With friends and family in tow, we embarked on a journey through the long grass, creating a whimsical atmosphere that would stay with us throughout the festivities. The bride’s team emerged victorious in the first round of flip cup, fueling a sense of camaraderie and playful competition among our loved ones. Meanwhile, an impromptu acoustic performance by the Groom, Best Man, and Bride’s Brother brought new life to Tenacious D’s classic hit ‘Tribute’. The energy was electric as we transitioned from the joyful chaos to a euphoric dance party, capped off with ‘You Got The Love’ (New Voyager Radio Edit) by The Source & Candi Staton. This nostalgic nod to our earlier procession down the aisle, accompanied by Florence’s haunting rendition, served as the perfect finale to an unforgettable day.
Advice For Other Couples
Don’t let external opinions dictate your choices; prioritize what matters most to you. Focus on the essentials: food, drinks, and music. When budget constraints are tight, allocate funds accordingly. Next, invest in an exceptional photographer who can capture the memories that will last long after the celebration is over. Ensure they understand your vision and preferences. If a videographer isn’t essential, consider hiring someone to record the speeches – you’ll likely forget the details otherwise. To avoid financial stress, create a comprehensive budget upfront, being transparent about your spending and sticking to it.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
The picturesque Church Farm was transformed into a whimsical wonderland, thanks to the expertise of Giant Tipis’ Buffalo Tipi and Light Fantastic’s enchanting lighting. The venue’s rustic charm was perfectly complemented by the stunning flowers provided by Jasper & Quinn, while Crockery Hire from Mines Leisure Hire added a touch of elegance with their carefully curated tableware. As guests sipped on fine wine from Great Western Wine and enjoyed a pint of Moor Beer, the infectious energy of Soultown got everyone on their feet to dance the night away. Ross and Olivia’s wedding attire was nothing short of breathtaking, with Flossy and Willow crafting a stunning wedding dress for the bride, while Vintage Suit Hire helped the groom look dashing in his chosen attire, completed with Will’s Vegan Shoes adding a touch of eco-friendliness. The sweet treats from Bake It Til You Make It were the perfect treat to round off an unforgettable day, which took place at the beautiful Prior Park College. As Lou reflects on this special day, ‘Ross and Olivia both looked amazing in their chosen attire too.’ A huge thank you goes out to Ross and Olivia for sharing their love story with us.