Imagine a wedding where love, creativity, and family come together to create an unforgettable celebration. For Kelly and Will, their special day was exactly that – a true labor of love. The couple chose to hold the ceremony at Kelly’s parent’s home, transforming a rustic country barn into a beautiful setting for their vows. As the sun began to set, the party continued in a magical tipi, where handmade details and personal touches brought the entire wedding together.The floral arrangements were particularly stunning, featuring delicate pale pink and blue blooms that added a touch of whimsy to the day. And speaking of unforgettable moments, how about the confetti toss and sparkler send-off captured by Marta May Photography? It’s a true highlight! But what really stole the show was the unique smoke bomb portraits taken on a rowing boat – simply breathtaking.Of course, no wedding would be complete without mentioning the stunning attire. Kelly looked radiant in her strapless Paloma Blanca gown, while Will turned heads in his navy suit and tweed waistcoat. The bridesmaids didn’t disappoint either, rocking embellished pale pink and blue frocks that perfectly complemented the overall aesthetic.As you indulge in this beautiful wedding, remember that it’s all about the love and effort that goes into making every moment special. It’s a truly inspiring celebration of family, creativity, and joy.
The Proposal
I never expected the mid-week drinks with my best friend and future Maid of Honour to be anything more than a routine get-together. But as we sipped our drinks, I had no idea that Will was secretly plotting an unforgettable evening. When I returned home, I was met with a whimsical surprise: fairy lights and candles illuminated the space, while handwritten notes and old photographs guided me through the twists and turns of our journey together. As I made my way through the sentimental trail, I stumbled upon a grand bouquet of flowers, a humorously embarrassing mug, and a heartfelt love letter – all leading up to an unforgettable moment outside by the roaring firepit that Will had designed especially for my birthday celebration. And then, in a flash of romance, he dropped down onto one knee, leaving me speechless and breathless.
The Vision
Our dream wedding was always going to be a barn-style celebration, designed to be relaxed and enjoyable for us and our closest loved ones. We craved a rustic country atmosphere infused with enchanting, one-of-a-kind touches. To bring this vision to life, we prioritized working with local suppliers and enlisted the help of friends and family wherever possible.
The Planning Process
After just a few months of engagement, we faced the challenge of making crucial decisions rapidly. With our vision in mind, we prioritized contacting suppliers and vendors to gauge their availability. As we pondered between June 2018 and 2019 as potential wedding dates, their response would significantly influence our final choice. Fortunately, one option stood out – June 9th, coincidentally my sister’s birthday. We decided to seize the opportunity and make it our special day. With her blessing, we were able to share the celebration with her on her special day. Having made key decisions quickly, the rest of the planning process unfolded smoothly. The most time-consuming aspect was gathering ideas for the wedding décor, which required a significant amount of research and brainstorming.
Your Outfits & Accessories
Will’s sharp navy blue suit from Peter Posh in Shrewsbury perfectly captured his style, complemented by a pale blue tie that stood out against the attire of his groomsmen – including his twin best man. The brown shoes added a touch of sophistication to the overall look, which was elevated by a beautiful buttonhole from Issy & Bella featuring pinks and blues.Meanwhile, my dream dress turned out to be Paloma Blanca from Wedding Belles of Four Oaks. Initially, I wasn’t keen on strapless dresses, but this one won me over with its unique design, luxurious material, rich colour, and exquisite details such as a full button train, pearl embroidery, and a subtle sparkle. The sheer cathedral-length veil added an air of elegance to the overall look.To complete my outfit, I opted for comfortable ivory courts from Rainbow, sourced from eBay. My accessories included a pearl and diamond necklace with matching earrings, a thoughtful wedding gift from my parents. I also wore my grandmother’s old watch and a brooch that belonged to my nan, cleverly attached to the ribbons of my bouquet.
Bridesmaids
I surrounded myself with an all-female entourage on my big day, enlisting the help of my closest confidantes – sister, cousin, and dear family friend. They looked absolutely radiant in their stunning pastel-embellished gowns from Monsoon, a perfect blend of elegance and whimsy.
Before the main event, we had a fun-filled try-on session at my house, where they got to wear about ten different dresses! As fate would have it, they all fell head over heels for the same dress – but couldn’t agree on the colour. Two were smitten with the blue hue, while two others adored the pink shade. In the end, we decided to go with both colours, and I’m thrilled that we did.
Not only did this decision allow us to incorporate the blue into our overall colour scheme, but it also created a beautiful visual effect having the two shades complement each other. It was truly a joy to behold, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more.
Groomsmen
Will’s twin brother stood by his side as best man, while three close friends took on usher roles. The group of groomsmen opted for a unified look, donning navy suits from Peter Posh and coordinating waistcoats in the same hue. Completing their ensembles were brown shoes and matching buttonholes courtesy of Issy & Bella. In a thoughtful touch, Will gifted each groomsman an engraved hip flask, which proved to be a popular accessory throughout the day.
Budget
As we navigated the planning process, we had a clear understanding of what was non-negotiable for us – those essential elements that defined our vision. At the same time, there were certain aspects where we decided to exercise restraint, mindful not to let our enthusiasm get the better of us and send our budget spiraling out of control.
The Readings & Music
Our wedding ceremony featured two special readings, with my maid of honour delivering ‘What is Love?’ and my sister reading ‘The One’. The atmosphere was further enhanced by Aaron’s soulful acoustic rendition of Kodaline’s hit song ‘The One’, which we walked down the aisle to. As we exchanged our vows and signed the register, Aaron treated us to Jason Mraz’s romantic classic ‘I Won’t Give Up’ and later, as we exited the ceremony space, we danced out to another Jason Mraz hit, ‘I’m Yours’. The talented musician also kept the party going at the drinks reception, where he had everyone grooving before dinner was even served. Our first dance as a married couple was a romantic affair, set to James Arthur’s emotive ballad ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’. Later in the evening, we brought the house down with the energetic sounds of ‘Call of the Kraken’, a band that truly got our guests up and dancing all night long. The electric atmosphere they created lingered well into the night.
The Venue
As we exchanged vows and celebrated our special day, the picturesque old stone barn on my parents’ property provided a breathtaking backdrop. The moment I laid eyes on it, I knew this was where I wanted to tie the knot – and Will didn’t take much convincing either. With its charming rustic charm, we opted for a minimalist approach to décor, incorporating fairy lights and delicate flowers to create an intimate setting that will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
The courtyard made for a stunning entrance, featuring rustic matting that led the way up to the barn, flanked by beer barrels, milk churns, lanterns, bunting, and signage – a visually striking combination. We also had the pleasure of having a luxurious tipi from Elite Tents in the garden, which elevated the party atmosphere as the sun went down, perfectly capturing the relaxed, rustic vibe we were aiming for.
We felt incredibly fortunate to have such an idyllic setting and be able to host our own home wedding. The enchanting atmosphere certainly added to the magic of the day, allowing us to include some unconventional guests – like our beloved horses! It was truly a dream come true.
Beauty
Jessica Ava brought out the best in our make-up – I can’t speak highly enough about her services. Her airbrush make-up skills are truly impressive! Initially, we were hesitant to splurge on professional make-up, but it was absolutely worth it. I opted for a natural look with a touch of glamour, and Jessica nailed it. She also expertly styled the hair of my bridesmaids and mother-in-law. For myself, I chose a half-up, half-down hairstyle, while the ladies in my wedding party went for an all-up look. To complete our ensembles, we added delicate ivory rose buds and gypsophila accents to our hairstyles.
Your Photographer
We opted for Marta May, whose relaxed, fun, and informal style perfectly aligned with our vision for the day. They truly were exceptional! With an uncanny ability to blend into the background, they captured every moment with finesse, while their creative shots are nothing short of breathtaking. To ensure a seamless experience, we even had a pre-shoot where Marta and Artur could familiarize themselves with the venue, allowing us to get comfortable in front of the camera – an excellent decision that left us feeling at ease on the big day.
Your Filmmaker
When it comes to capturing the essence of your special day, photographs are wonderful for preserving memories. However, videos have the unique ability to showcase the before, after, and those fleeting moments that often go unseen. We wholeheartedly recommend including a videographer in your wedding planning – reliving the experience through a beautifully crafted video is truly priceless.
For us, selecting the right videographer was a no-brainer. Libby had previously worked with my friend, filming her wedding and impressing us with her distinctive style, which aligned perfectly with our vision for our big day.
The Cake
Charlotte Winter, a childhood friend of mine, had the honor of crafting our show-stopping three-tiered semi-naked masterpiece. The cake’s layers were infused with the sweet essence of vanilla, carrot, and lemon, which was beautifully complemented by the freshness of the flowers adorning its surface. In celebration of my sister’s birthday, we also created a decadent chocolate fudge cake, lavishly topped with luscious strawberries and crunchy meringues. The cake’s exterior was partially iced to mirror the design of our original masterpiece, making for a truly unforgettable dessert.
The Details & Décor
With just two weeks until the big day, our bridal party rolled up their sleeves to transform the farm into a one-of-a-kind wedding venue that truly reflected our personalities. The rustic charm of the setting was perfectly captured through DIY endeavors that showcased the creativity and resourcefulness of our loved ones. My dad brought his handyman skills to the table, crafting archways, easels, and renovating the registration table. Meanwhile, my maid of honor got artistic with paint, creating custom signage and decorations that added a personal touch to the venue. We also commissioned a beautiful wooden sign from Made at Wood and Wood, which served as the perfect entrance statement and will be repurposed as a keepsake after the wedding.To create a cozy atmosphere, we collected and repurposed various items like milk churns, barrels, apple crates, lanterns, candles, bunting, gin bottles, log slices, and tea lights. We paired these rustic elements with elegant touches like vases, glass bottles, and cotton table runners from The Wedding of My Dreams. Even the name tags and table plan were handmade in our spare time using craft tools from Hobbycraft. To add a touch of nostalgia, we hung old photographs of us on old barn doors using twine and pegs.The pièce de résistance was the serve-at-the-table roast, which featured custom aprons with silly photos designed by my partner Will. This unique format not only broke the ice but also resulted in incredibly delicious food. To keep our guests comfortable, we provided blankets and flip flops to prevent cold and sore feet from spoiling the party. Three firepits added a warm and cozy ambiance that linked back to the magical memories of our proposal.As night fell, lanterns hanging from trees and lining the walkways created a truly enchanting atmosphere that was simply magical.
The Honeymoon
As we embarked on a week-long adventure in Scotland with our lovable Lab pup Amber by our side, my spouse and I savored the opportunity to disconnect from daily routines, indulge in moments of tranquility, and relive cherished memories – free from the responsibilities of married life.
The Flowers
Issy & Bella’s rustic wild bouquets and buttonholes stole the show with their breathtaking combination of peonies, roses, sweet peas, astible, oryla, veronica, love in the mist, delphinium tips, rosemary, scented geranium, and eucalyptus. The floral arrangement was a sensory delight, filling the air with its sweet fragrance. To tie it all together, I had mine hand-tied with hand-dyed silk ribbons that harmonized perfectly with the bridesmaids’ colors.The venue’s floral masterpieces were skillfully crafted by our family friend Jan Davies. The barn was transformed into a whimsical wonderland, featuring a stunning floral archway (a special touch courtesy of my dad) and beautifully arranged table centerpieces. We also used potted plants strategically throughout the grounds, incorporating lavender, herbs, and pink flowers to create a lush atmosphere. To add to the rustic charm, we placed pots in milk churns and apple crates, allowing us to enjoy the beauty all summer long.For the ceremony centerpieces, we opted for single flower stems arranged artfully within gin bottles. This unique touch was later reused at the top table. The archway from the ceremony made a magical appearance outside for photos, while a second floral archway adorned with white drapes added a romantic ambiance by the lake.
Memorable Moments
As I stepped into the venue, my heart skipped a beat as I took in the sea of familiar faces. The anticipation was palpable, and I couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement. The confetti-lined walkway added to the festivities, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. Before settling in for dinner, we got our groove on with some impromptu dancing. And then, there was the boat – a unique touch that had us feeling like royalty. But the real pièce de résistance came when the band launched into a rousing performance of Mumford & Sons’ hit song, dedicating it to us as we sang along at the top of our lungs. And let’s not forget the crowning jewel: an incredible burger that left me wanting more – truly the best I’ve ever had.
Advice For Other Couples
The magic of the wedding day lies not just in the grand moments, but also in the subtle build-up to that one special hour. It’s a day filled with little moments that make it truly unforgettable. In fact, many couples would agree that their wedding day is the best day of their life. If you’re planning a DIY wedding, consider enlisting the help of a professional wedding coordinator. We had the pleasure of working with Amy, who was nothing short of amazing. Her expertise and attention to detail took all the stress out of planning our special day, allowing us to truly enjoy every moment without a care in the world.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
The creative minds behind this stunning wedding celebration were a talented team of individuals who brought together their unique skills to create a truly unforgettable experience. Photographer Marta May Photography captured the special moments with precision and artistry, while Videographer Libby Blunt preserved the memories on film. The beautiful bouquets were crafted by Issy & Bella, and other floral arrangements were designed by Jan Davies. Catering for the day was provided by Mortimer Park’s Evening Caterers, along with a delicious spread from Beefeys Boys. The wedding co-ordinator, Amy Roberts Weddings, ensured everything ran smoothly. The bride’s stunning wedding dress was Paloma Blanca from Wedding Belles at Four Oaks, paired perfectly with suits from Peter Posh Shrewsbury. Hair and makeup expertise came from Jessica Ava and local friend Nikki Jackson, respectively. The mouth-watering cake was a masterpiece from Perfect Cakes Co, while the Tipi and furniture hire were provided by Elite Tents and Burgoynes Lyonshall, respectively. Musical entertainment was courtesy of Aaron Booton Acoustic Guitar and band Call of the Kraken. Toilets for guests were conveniently arranged by Posh Potties. The welcome sign was a thoughtful touch from Wood & Wood, and the wedding décor was designed with love and care by The Wedding Of My Dreams. Fairy lights added a magical ambiance, courtesy of Lights4fun. I must express my heartfelt gratitude to Kelly and Will for allowing me to share their special day with me – it has been an absolute pleasure.