Today, we’re thrilled to share the vibrant Mexican fiesta wedding of Helena and Matthew, lovingly captured by Through the Woods We Ran Photography. This joyous celebration took place on August 1st, 2018, at Chaucer Barn in Norfolk. As I relive their special day, I’m struck by the warmth, fun, and personal touches that made it truly unforgettable.
What I adore most about this wedding is how Helena and Matthew made it their own, incorporating unique elements that reflected their personalities. And what a treat to witness the emotional speech by Helena’s father – be sure to check out her account of the experience!
The color palette in these images is simply stunning, and Glenn and Lauren from Through the Woods We Ran Photography have done an exceptional job of capturing the love and joy that filled the air. I must say, I’m also loving the stylish outfits on display – Helena’s beautiful Rembo Styling gown was well worth the wait, don’t you agree? And Matthew’s Mrs Bow Tie attire is a perfect fit for this lovely couple, as they’re two of our favorite WWW couples.
The Proposal
Matthew and I met at York University, where our relationship flourished amidst the campus’s vibrant atmosphere. After graduation, we revisited our alma mater multiple times to relive cherished memories. Little did I know that Matthew had planned a surprise getaway during half-term, determined to pop the question in the same quiet spot on campus where it all began. Unfortunately, my friend-filled invitation foiled his plans, and he had to regroup. Undeterred, he proposed at our hotel with a cleverly disguised fake ring, leaving me delighted despite the unconventional setting. We celebrated long into the night.Upon returning home, we embarked on a joint shopping adventure to find my dream engagement ring. I’d always been clear about not wanting a traditional diamond solitaire, instead envisioning a unique piece that reflected my personality. Matthew was thrilled to share the experience, freed from the pressure of finding ‘the perfect’ ring. Though I would’ve loved whatever he chose, I cherished the opportunity to curate my own symbol of love and commitment.
The Vision
Our goal was to create an immersive experience that would leave a lasting impression on our guests. To achieve this, we focused on three key aspects: fun, vibrancy, and culinary delights. We started by providing a range of engaging activities for our guests to enjoy, including an archery contest during the reception drinks and lawn games that got everyone in the mood for the night ahead. As the sun set, we transformed the space with a lively ceilidh that had everyone on their feet and dancing into the night. To keep our guests refreshed and energized throughout the day, we offered cool treats from Ronaldo’s Ices, featuring 10 unique flavors that were perfect for beating the heat. For the main event, we served up an array of delectable Mexican tapas from Funnells Kitchen, including quesadillas, fajitas, tequila-lime chicken, and more. And because no celebration is complete without sweet treats, our guests enjoyed a variety of decadent desserts to satisfy their cravings. Later in the evening, we brought out the big guns with Broadside Pizzas, serving up an assortment of stone-baked masterpieces and garlic breads that were almost too beautiful to eat. Meanwhile, Crabb & Fox Bars kept the good times rolling with an array of refreshing beverages, including my personal favorite – and the wasps’ – mojitos. To tie everything together, we added pops of color with bunting, flowers, and decorations throughout the venue, creating a truly unforgettable atmosphere.
The Planning Process
As the planning process began, my partner and I started by collecting inspiration from various sources – magazines that showcased budgeting tips, planning essentials, and current wedding trends. With summer in full swing, we embarked on a venue-hopping adventure, visiting what felt like dozens of potential sites until we finally settled on Chaucer Barn. Following this, I delved into the world of online inspiration, scouring WWW and Pinterest for ideas that would bring our wedding vision to life. Like many brides-to-be, I created numerous Pinterest boards, only to later scale back my expectations as the reality of bringing those ideas to fruition set in. Our search for suppliers also involved a mix of local wedding fairs – including The Most Curious Wedding Fair, where we met some of our future collaborators – and hours of online research, with Google and Instagram serving as my trusty guides.
Budget
By making conscious decisions about what mattered most to us, we were able to stay within our budget and have a memorable celebration. While it would’ve been lovely to splurge on lavish decorations and open bar, we prioritized the essentials – venue, food, and photos – and allocated our funds accordingly. Additionally, opting for a midweek wedding allowed us to allocate the savings towards enhancing the guest experience with better wine and entertainment.
The Venue
After months of searching, we finally found our dream venue in Chaucer Barn, Norfolk. Our geographical flexibility, being based in Nottingham and Norwich respectively, allowed us the freedom to explore a wide range of options. However, we did have some non-negotiables – Matthew was keen on having ample outdoor space, while I wanted a unique atmosphere that would make our special day truly unforgettable. As soon as we set eyes on Chaucer Barn’s stunning grounds and luxurious accommodations, we knew we’d found the perfect fit. The pièce de résistance was undoubtedly the breathtaking outside space, boasting beautifully manicured lawns, wild flower meadows, rolling hills, woodlands, and even a whimsical mini Stonehenge. This picturesque setting allowed us to envision a wedding that would be remembered for years to come. We were also thrilled by the venue’s unique décor, which drew inspiration from Asia’s rich cultural heritage. The resulting bohemian vibe was so captivating that we barely needed to add any additional touches – Chaucer Barn was already a work of art in its own right. With on-site accommodations and a campsite, our guests could join us for an extended celebration over two nights, making the entire experience feel like one long, unforgettable party.
Your Outfits & Accessories
I must admit that finding my dream dress was just as challenging as securing the perfect venue. I embarked on a nationwide quest to discover a gown that embodied my vision: flowy, lacy, and with a free-spirited essence. While each dress I tried looked lovely, I felt like I was dressing up for the part instead of truly being the bride. It dawned on me that a different approach was needed, so I began researching designers renowned for their relaxed styles.
It was then that I stumbled upon Rembo Styling and fell head over heels for their designs. I scheduled an appointment with one of their authorized stockists, Lace and Co Bridal, and it was there that I discovered my showstopping gown – Floreal. The moment I put on the cape, I knew I’d found ‘the one.’ The intricate lace details and fluid silhouette won me over, and I genuinely wouldn’t hesitate to choose this dress again.
In a similar vein, Matthew’s search for the perfect wedding attire was met with frustration when we initially sought out green suits. Unfortunately, our experiences at well-known suit tailors left us feeling unwelcome, which didn’t exactly set the tone for a memorable day. However, while browsing at Moss Bros in search of a new work suit, we stumbled upon a striking blue three-piece that Matthew looked fantastic in. We seized the opportunity and purchased it on the spot.
Given Matthew’s penchant for three-piece suits, we wanted his wedding attire to feel extra special. He opted for a bow tie and pocket square from Mrs Bowtie, which beautifully complemented his outfit.
Groomsmen
To show our appreciation for the groomsmen’s role in making Matthew’s special day unforgettable, we gifted each of them with a thoughtful token that perfectly complemented their attire. The matching suits worn by the groomsman made it a no-brainer to give them novelty cufflinks, bowties, and pocket squares that harmoniously coordinated with their outfits.
Bridesmaids
The bridesmaids’ ensemble was a stunning showcase of Hobbs’ maxi dresses, with each of the three ladies donning a striking ombre blue dress that perfectly captured the brightness I had envisioned. Their unique shoe choices added a personal touch to their overall aesthetic, while the dried flower necklaces they received as gifts served as a lovely reminder of the special occasion.
Beauty
When it came to my hair, I had no hesitation in selecting the stylist I wanted to work with. Having worked with them on multiple occasions, including my mom’s and maid of honour’s styles, I trusted their expertise to bring out the best in my locks. To accommodate their schedule, we arranged for them to stay overnight at the hotel, where they spent the first half of the wedding day with their partner before heading back to Nottingham. Meanwhile, my makeup was skillfully handled by Kirsty, who did an incredible job of enhancing our features. We all looked stunning and appreciated her ability to tailor her approach to each individual’s unique style.
The Readings & Music
As music lovers, my partner and I faced a challenging task in selecting the songs for our special day. Our desire to play all of our favorites meant that narrowing down the options was no easy feat. The soundtrack came together beautifully, though, with each choice carefully curated to match the tone and atmosphere of our woodland wedding. As I made my way down the aisle, Julie Fowlis’s haunting vocals in ‘Touch the Sky’ from the film Brave set the perfect mood, complementing my fiery locks and the whimsical nature of the surroundings. The ceremony itself was a lovely blend of Prettiest Star by David Bowie and Somebody to Love by Jefferson Airplane, which added a touch of nostalgia and romance to the proceedings. Following the ‘I dos,’ we walked back down the aisle to the uplifting rhythms of Shine a Little Love by ELO. To further enhance the festive atmosphere during the wedding breakfast, we opted for a diverse selection of Latin-inspired tunes that perfectly captured the essence of our Mexican Fiesta celebration. And, of course, no special occasion would be complete without a romantic first dance – ours was to Majestic by Wax Fang, a unique yet deeply personal choice that reflected our love and appreciation for each other.
Your Photographer
For our special day, we opted for the services of Through the Woods We Ran, a photography team renowned for their laid-back approach. Having two photographers on hand allowed us to capture not only the romantic moments between Matthew and me, but also the candid moments that arose when we were apart.
The Details & Décor
Our special day blended two unique themes: the vibrant culture of Mexico and our shared love of science. To bring this fusion to life, we incorporated elements that reflected both aspects into our wedding celebration. The reception room was transformed with papel picardo decorations and a ‘Taco ‘Bout A Wedding’ banner at the bar, setting the tone for a lively fiesta. Outside, a piñata awaited guests who were ready to let loose after a few drinks.To add an extra layer of whimsy to our seating plan, we created a ‘Take a Shot and Take a Seat’ area where tequila shots were served in cacti-shaped shot glasses accompanied by bowls of salt and limes. This unique arrangement not only made for fantastic photo opportunities but also got the party started.As physics enthusiasts at heart, we wanted to pay homage to our educational backgrounds. We named each table after our favorite physicists and incorporated flowers into conical flasks and test tubes. Matthew’s grandfather even crafted custom test tube holders that added a touch of elegance to the overall aesthetic.On the night of the wedding, a firepit was ready to provide warmth in case the temperature dropped, but fortunately, the heatwave of 2018 kept us cozy. Our s’mores station served marshmallows and biscuits in science beakers, adding a sweet and playful touch to the evening.In lieu of a traditional photobooth, we created our own using a gold backdrop from Ginger Ray and a collection of props we had gathered over the years. The props included sombreros, an Albert Einstein mask, fake Mexican moustaches, glitter, fake tattoos, and other fun accessories. We also provided a polaroid camera for guests to sign their photos and hang them up, creating a personalized and memorable keepsake.
The Cake
Our family friend kindly offered to bake our wedding cake, which added a personal touch to the celebration. To complement the bridesmaids’ dresses, the cake was crafted with a dark blue and marble print design. Interestingly, it was a fruitcake, which offered a unique flavor profile for our guests. In addition, we also ordered a selection of cakes from Sponge in various flavors, allowing our guests to indulge in their favorite treats at their leisure.
The Flowers
As we exchanged vows, our flowers from Rambling Rose truly stole the show. The arrangement was a masterpiece, perfectly capturing Lydia’s vision. I had always envisioned myself and my bridesmaid donning beautiful flower crowns and carrying wild, seasonal bouquets that would not only complement our outfits but also fill the air with their intoxicating scent. And it didn’t disappoint – they lasted impressively well throughout the sweltering summer heat, a testament to the quality of the blooms.
The Honeymoon
As we’ve opted to prioritize buying our first home together, our honeymoon plans are still on hold. However, we did treat ourselves to a mini-moon at The Pigs in Norfolk, which was an incredible experience. The property’s culinary delights and serene ambiance made it the perfect retreat for us. We enjoyed having our own sauna and steam room facilities, as well as an outdoor patio with a firepit, offering a tranquil atmosphere that we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to anyone seeking a relaxing getaway without venturing too far from home. With our sights set on a summer escape next year, we’re excited to relive the magic of The Pigs and make more memories together.
Memorable Moments
As I reflect on my wedding day, one moment that stands out in my mind is when my dad took to the stage with his guitar. I had grown accustomed to him breaking out the instrument at family gatherings or during quiet moments before a big event. But nothing could have prepared me for the emotional rollercoaster he was about to take us on. He began by giving the standard ‘I’m so proud of you’ speech, but then he pulled out his guitar and microphone and started playing the most poignant song I’ve ever had the pleasure of hearing – ‘I Loved Her First’ by Heartland. The room was captivated as we all savored every note, not a dry eye in sight. It was truly a breathtaking moment that I’ll always treasure.Another highlight for me was the ceremony itself. As I walked down the aisle to Matthew, I couldn’t help but radiate joy from head to toe. Seeing my loved ones beaming back at me, knowing they were there to support us as we declared our love, filled my heart with gratitude and happiness.
Advice For Other Couples
One of the greatest benefits of having a multi-day wedding celebration is being able to soak up quality time with loved ones before, during, and after the main event. We extended our special day by hosting a BBQ the night before and a casual thank you lunch at a local pub the following day. This allowed us to connect with guests in a more relaxed atmosphere and create lasting memories.In contrast to what we’ve heard about couples being too busy on their wedding day, we made a conscious effort to spend time together, taking short walks, chatting with guests, and simply enjoying each other’s company. We highly recommend prioritizing this aspect of your big day – after all, it’s about celebrating your love for one another.When it comes to decorations, remember that sometimes less is more. We opted for a beautiful venue that spoke for itself, making only minimal additions to enhance the natural charm. As it turned out, our guests were far more impressed by the food, scenery, and overall atmosphere than they were with our decorations.Lastly, don’t be afraid to ignore the naysayers and stick to your vision. We encountered some concerns from friends and family about our choices, but we remained committed to planning the wedding of our dreams. And in the end, those same individuals praised our decisions as being among the best they’d ever experienced at a wedding.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
As we traversed the picturesque woods, the air was electric with excitement. The picturesque backdrop of Chaucer Barn played host to this unforgettable celebration. Amidst the merriment, delightful culinary delights from Funnells Kitchen tantalized our taste buds – pizza and ice cream treats courtesy of Broadside Pizza and Ronaldo Ices respectively. Crabb and Fox’s bar offerings added to the festive atmosphere. Meanwhile, the groom’s stylish ensemble was a highlight, thanks in part to Mrs Bow Tie’s impeccable sense of fashion. As a proud member of the Wedding Directory, Groom’s Style ensured his look was nothing short of dashing. The soundtrack for this joyous occasion was provided by Midsummer Music, whose tunes had everyone dancing in the aisles. Rambling Rose’s gorgeous floral arrangements added a pop of color to the proceedings. Hair and makeup duties were skillfully handled by Jay at Copperfields and Kirstie Barton respectively. The bride’s stunning Rembo Styling from Lace and Co Bridal dress stole the show. Furniture Hire experts Anglia Elite and Dick Ropa Events ensured the event space was transformed into a vibrant celebration area. We’re grateful to Helena and Matthew for sharing their wonderful Mexican fiesta with us today! Rachel x