Lauren and John’s summer wedding celebration is a true showstopper! We’re thrilled to feature their picturesque union, which took place on August 3rd, 2019. The couple exchanged vows in a church ceremony before heading to the family farm for an unforgettable clear marquee reception. As if the idyllic setting wasn’t enough, the weather was perfect and the views simply breathtaking. The transparent marquee allowed the natural beauty of the surroundings to shine through, and as night fell, it transformed into a whimsical wonderland lit up by fairy lights. The rustic charm of their décor was perfectly captured, with wooden accents, chalkboard signs, and lush floral arrangements adding to the overall ambiance. A highlight of the reception was the stunning cake table, where a reclaimed wood window frame served as a beautiful backdrop. Meanwhile, stylish attire, vibrant bunting, and lively fete games ensured a joyful atmosphere throughout the day. Special thanks to Sarah Brookes Photography for sharing these exquisite images with us today – enjoy!
The Proposal
John and I had been frequent visitors to the picturesque Cotswolds, and it seemed like we were due for another visit. We returned in late October 2017, but this time, we faced a rather unfavourable weather condition – driving rain. The steep path we chose was one we’d traversed before, but never in such inclement weather. I must admit, my initial mood was less than sunny. John, however, remained resolute in his determination to reach the summit of our walk. His persistence was admirable, even if it did involve offering me snacks to keep my spirits up. My response was predictably blunt. Despite the rain-soaked conditions, we eventually found ourselves at a familiar landmark on our route. As we paused to take shelter from the downpour, John asked me to hold his bag while he rummaged for some snacks – it was a moment of levity in an otherwise dreary scene. After a few minutes, he produced a small box, and my curiosity was piqued. Upon opening it, I found a message that left me momentarily stunned: ‘Will you marry me?’ The rest, as they say, is history.
Your Outfits & Accessories
Lauren’s search for the perfect dress led her to Brides by Solo in Newmarket, where she ultimately found it – or rather, her big sister did, drawn to its elegance and fit. Lauren recalls trying on the dress and knowing instinctively that it was the one, with even her mum, sister, and mother-in-law all falling in love with the final result. The memory remains etched in her mind to this day.
For John, the theme of the wedding – a charming blend of farm, rustic, and vintage elements – posed a styling challenge he was happy to take on. Following recommendations from friends, he turned to Vintage Suit Hire in Bedford, where he found a solution that perfectly captured the essence of the special day.
The Vision
From the onset, we had a clear vision for our wedding – to tie the knot on his parents’ picturesque farm. This rustic setting perfectly complemented the whimsical charm of Dolly’s Vintage Tea Party, creating a seamless blend of country elegance and vintage flair.
The Planning Process
Our experience was incredibly relaxed, thanks in part to the fact that we had a significant amount of time to plan – 18 months, to be exact. From the outset, we were meticulous in our preparations, which ultimately worked in our favor. We were also fortunate enough to have already secured Hayley Thurston from Dolly’s Vintage, who proved to be an invaluable resource in recommending top-notch individuals for our needs.
The Readings & Music
On the most memorable day of their lives, couples often choose to make a meaningful connection with their loved ones through sacred readings and timeless music. The wedding ceremony typically begins with the processional, which sets the tone for the celebration. In this instance, Aaron’s reading of On Your Wedding Day served as a poignant reminder of the couple’s commitment to one another. This was followed by Susie’s gentle voice as she brought 1 Corinthians 13 to life, emphasizing the importance of love and devotion in their union. The musical portion of the ceremony featured a beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary pieces. The processional was accompanied by Jeremiah Clarke’s Trumpet Voluntary, while Give Me Joy In My Heart (Ancient and Modern 459) served as a heartfelt hymn. As the couple exchanged their vows, Pachelbel’s Canon in D provided a serene atmosphere. Following the signing of the marriage license, One More Step Along The World I Go was sung with reverence. Finally, the recessional music, Wedding March by Mendelssohn, brought the ceremony to a triumphant close.
Bridesmaids
The wedding party’s attire was a thoughtful blend of classic and modern pieces. The bride herself wore the stunning Cara dress from Monsoon, while her maid of honour Rachel donned another beautiful option from the same brand. For his part, Ben, the groomsmen, opted for a dashing suit that showcased his personal style. Meanwhile, the flower girls were treated to delightful dresses from John Lewis, perfectly capturing their youthful charm. The bridesmaids, consisting of Lucie, Emily, Bella, and Isla, rounded out the stylish ensemble with their own unique flair.
Beauty
The Venue
The Flowers
The Details & Décor
Groomsmen
To add a touch of sophistication to your event, consider renting suits from Vintage Suit Hire in Bedford. The options are numerous, with styles available for gentlemen such as Phil, Stuart, Dan, Chris, Aaron, James, and Andrew.
Your Photographer
The Honeymoon
The Cake
Memorable Moments
As I stepped out of the church, I took a moment to myself, surrounded by the serenity of nature, with only the gentle hum of the Landrover’s engine breaking the silence. The peaceful atmosphere was a perfect precursor to the excitement that lay ahead – a surprise fireworks display, expertly kept under wraps by my husband until the very last minute! And then, as if the night couldn’t get any better, I found myself dancing under the stars, the rhythmic beats and twinkling lights blending in perfect harmony.
Advice For Other Couples
Pause periodically to soak up your surroundings. It’s perfectly fine if you can’t engage in a lengthy discussion with each person; they likely won’t even notice. Take this opportunity to recharge and appreciate the little things.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
With a team of talented vendors at their disposal, Lauren and John’s special day was truly a sight to behold. Behind the lens was photographer Sarah Brookes, capturing every precious moment with her expert eye. Meanwhile, Kerry Curl from Cambridge Make up artist worked her magic on the happy couple, ensuring they looked radiant from dawn till dusk. The event’s décor and flowers were skillfully designed by Dolly’s Vintage Tea Party, transporting guests to a whimsical wonderland. Rural and Urban Events took care of the marquee and catering, providing a seamless fusion of form and function. JezO’s Events Ltd got the party started with their infectious tunes, while LSK Hire Ltd ensured that all necessary facilities were well-equipped. Brides By Solo designed Lauren’s stunning dress, complemented by her bridesmaids’ stylish Monsoon gowns. For John and his groomsmen, The Vintage Suit Hire Company provided dapper attire. As we gaze upon the happy couple’s joyous celebration, it’s clear that every detail was carefully considered to create an unforgettable experience – and Lou couldn’t be more thrilled to have been a part of their love story.