Katie and Mex’s enchanting woodland wedding celebration was a masterclass in whimsical elegance. The couple exchanged vows at The Dreys in Kent on August 24th, 2019, surrounded by the serenity of nature. Following their intimate ceremony, they transitioned to a rustic pole tent marquee, transformed into an oasis of wonder with meticulously curated decor. This fusion of festival and mystical charm was further enhanced by nods to Wes Anderson films, featuring intricate macramé, plush Persian rugs, and dreamcatcher accents. The atmosphere was nothing short of magical.At the heart of their ceremony was a breathtaking willow moon gate flower arch, adding an air of drama to the already stunning setting. The floral arrangements were equally impressive, with Katie’s show-stopping bouquet cascading beautifully down her dress. I’m also enamored with the suspended greenery arrangement in the marquee and the various other details that made this wedding so unforgettable – including the bride’s striking painted leather jacket, pastel bridesmaid dresses, smoke bombs, banner sign, and hand-painted pebbles. With too many wonderful elements to mention them all, I’ll simply let the incredible photographs and film by Grace & Mitch Photo & Film speak for themselves, which we’re honored to share with you today.
The Proposal
As I recall, Mex surprised me with a trip to the Cotswolds in early December 2016, a getaway filled with wet walks, pub lunches, and cozy moments by the fireplace. One evening, we ventured out for dinner at a stunning castle near our cottage, enjoying each other’s company over a nightcap. However, Mex suddenly excused himself, leaving me curious about his sudden departure. Back at the cottage, I discovered that he had been busy setting up a romantic atmosphere, complete with candles and fairy lights. The ambiance was magical, with the soft glow of the lights and the sweet melody of Le Temps de L’Amour by Francois Hardy playing on the record player. It was as if fate had conspired to bring us together in that moment, and we found ourselves lost in a beautiful dance. As the evening wore on, Mex got down on one knee, and I felt my heart skip a beat. We spent the rest of the night toasting our love with champagne and laughing at episodes of Peep Show, including the memorable scene where Mark proposes to Sophie on the Quantox Island – a poignant reminder of the magic that had just unfolded.
The Vision
As we gathered together, the excitement was palpable – we were craving an immersive experience that would bring us closer to nature and each other. The memories of our encounter at the festival still lingered, making it only natural for us to want to replicate that sense of camaraderie and fun in a more rustic setting.
The Planning Process
With a generous 18-month timeframe to prepare, we were able to methodically plan our special day. By April, we had secured the perfect venue and arranged for Grace & Mitch, our trusted photographers, to capture the memories. The subsequent eight weeks flew by in a whirlwind of activity, yet we cherished every moment. To ensure everything ran smoothly, I compiled an exhaustive list of tasks and enlisted the support of numerous friends and family members.
The Venue
At The Dreys, you’re treated to an unparalleled level of service from their exceptional team. One notable standout is Jo, who brings your vision to life with innovative production design ideas. Our closest friends and family joined us for a memorable post-wedding brunch, sharing stories and laughter in a cozy shepherd hut or tent setting – the perfect way to relive the joy of our special day together.
Your Outfits & Accessories
After scouring through what felt like an endless array of dresses, I finally settled on the Adrianna Pappell Platinum from Precious Moments in Rayleigh, Essex. As I reflect on the experience, I still find myself thinking about the ones that could have been. It was a dress with which I had a deep connection, one that left me pondering the what-ifs. On the other hand, my shoes were an absolute bargain from ASOS – so affordable that it almost felt like they were begging to be worn. And, as the night wore on, even the dirt and grime that accumulated on them became a badge of honor, a sign that I had truly lived. The jewellery, however, was borrowed from friends, a testament to the power of community and the idea that sometimes it’s okay to rely on others.
Beauty
Fai Archer’s impressive credentials in the hair and makeup industry are undeniable. A prominent figure in the world of film and television, Fai has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill and artistry throughout her career. What sets her apart from others in her field is not only her incredible talent, but also her warm and likable personality – making her a joy to work with.
The Readings & Music
As we exchanged our vows, Wilco’s ‘True Love Will Find You’ filled the air, setting the tone for a truly unique celebration. Noah & the Whale’s ‘Just Married’ later played during the reception, as did Elvis’ (The Villagers version) ‘The Wonder of You’, which became the perfect soundtrack for our first dance as a married couple. The ceremony was officiated by Michelle Funky Celebrant, who wove our story into an enchanting narrative that left a lasting impression on our guests. We opted to write our own vows, a decision that added a personal touch and resulted in a truly one-of-a-kind service. As self-proclaimed geeks, we incorporated Harry Potter references throughout, including a playful ‘mischief managed’ at the ceremony’s close. Our reception featured a lively sing-along to Elvis’ ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love With You’, which brought everyone together. In a touching gesture, our friend Emma read from ‘The Amber Spyglass’ by Phillip Pullman, while my brother Michael shared an excerpt from Richard Bach’s ‘The Bridge Across Forever’.
The Cake
The story of our scrumptious cake began with Auntie Lesley’s creative endeavor. She cleverly combined two distinct flavors – the richness of fruit cake at its base and the brightness of lemon cake atop it. The result was nothing short of breathtaking, a true masterpiece that tantalized taste buds and left us in awe.
The Details & Décor
Summer’s vibrant hues shone brightly at our ceremony, where a medley of styles harmonized in perfect unison. Persian rugs added a touch of elegance to the area, while lanterns and macramé-draped trees brought a whimsical charm. Homemade floral dreamcatchers fluttered gently above, infusing the atmosphere with a carefree essence.
To further accentuate our celebration’s theme, we incorporated many personal touches. I crafted the table settings, inspired by the eclectic visuals of Wes Anderson films. Meanwhile, my Mum surprised our guests with personalized rocks – an unexpected treat that resonated deeply with attendees. Additionally, I designed a unique ‘order of service’ booklet in the style of a music festival, mirroring the joy and revelry of our special day.
Bridesmaids
I aimed to showcase the girls in a variety of outfits and styles, as each one has their own unique charm and beauty that shines through regardless of what they’re wearing.
Groomsmen
The Flowers
In the world of Sue Davies Flowers, creativity knows no bounds. This talented artist works closely with The Dreys to bring their gardening and floristry visions to life. One notable instance where she truly went above and beyond was our flower design collaboration. From the onset, Sue demonstrated her unique approach by inquiring about our preferred color palette – or rather, lack thereof. When I simply said ‘all the colors,’ she lit up with excitement, unleashing a torrent of innovative ideas. The result was a bouquet that was truly breathtaking, its weighty presence a testament to Sue’s boundless creativity. Additionally, she crafted my floral head garland, which turned out to be nothing short of stunning.
Your Photographer
When it came time to find the right photographer, my husband Mitch and I didn’t waste any time – we went straight to Grace, whose stunning work had caught our attention on a wedding blog. Her unique style, which expertly blends candid reportage with beautifully composed shots, really spoke to us. We were blown away by her ability to capture not just moments from the day, but also the emotional essence of it all. In a way, she helped us relive the experience through her photographs – and for that, we’re eternally grateful.
Your Filmmaker
The wedding video created by Mitch of Grace & Mitch is a breathtaking masterpiece that has garnered numerous praises from our friends and family. The emotional impact it has on me is undeniable – every time I watch it, I’m overcome with emotion. What makes their work truly exceptional is not only their remarkable talent but also the warm and genuine nature of both Grace and Mitch. As if the beauty of their craft weren’t enough, they’re also an inspiration to us all as a loving couple themselves, living up to the ultimate #CoupleGoals.
The Honeymoon
Memorable Moments
As we celebrated the special moment, The Hype’s energetic performance had our guests dancing all night long. The speeches that followed were a perfect blend of laughter and tears, leaving us feeling grateful and nostalgic. The pièce de résistance was the stunning fireworks display, which capped off an unforgettable evening. Even I got in on the action, spinning around the firepit despite accidentally setting my dress ablaze! And who could forget the best man’s impromptu rendition of ‘alouette’ on the dance floor, dedicated to me – a truly heartwarming and hilarious moment that will always be remembered.
Advice For Other Couples
As you plan the perfect wedding day, remember to savor the creative process. Make lists and enjoy the little things! While Pinterest can be a great source of inspiration, don’t get too caught up in the pressure to create a ‘perfect’ scenario. Instead, focus on what truly matters – celebrating your love and commitment to each other.Take time to cherish moments with your partner amidst the chaos. Hold hands and reflect on the day you’ve built together. It’s essential for creating lasting memories.Don’t underestimate the power of a heartfelt speech! Every bride should take the opportunity to express her gratitude and joy to loved ones. You’ll feel an incredible sense of fulfillment afterwards.When it comes to capturing your special day, prioritize booking a photographer and consider investing in a videographer as well. The additional cost will be worth it for the memories you’ll treasure.Lastly, don’t skimp on the food! It may seem like a minor detail, but a memorable dining experience can make all the difference. Trust us – you won’t regret splurging a little.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
As we celebrated the union of photographer Mitch and videographer Grace, it was clear that every detail had been meticulously planned to ensure a truly unforgettable experience. The beautiful venue, provided by The Dreys, set the tone for an elegant and refined affair. Adrianna Papell’s exquisite dress design perfectly complemented the stunning boutique, Precious Moments, where the bride-to-be found her perfect match. ASOS shoes added a touch of whimsy to the overall aesthetic. Fai Archer brought their exceptional hair and makeup skills to the table, ensuring the happy couple looked radiant on their special day. Jennis & Warmann’s dashing groom and groomsman attire perfectly complemented Coast’s stylish bridesmaid dresses. Celebrant Michelle Funky brought her infectious energy to the ceremony, making it a truly joyful occasion. Sue Davies Flowers created breathtaking arrangements that added an extra layer of romance to the proceedings. The Humble Pie Company delivered delicious cuisine that left everyone in attendance thoroughly satisfied. Meanwhile, The Hype got the party started with their fantastic set list, featuring rock, indie, and pop hits that had everyone singing along and dancing the night away. A special shoutout must go to Katie and Simon of The Perfect Wedding Shop, who designed stunning signage that added a personal touch to the celebration. And let’s not forget Lou’s heartfelt thanks to Katie and Mex for sharing their incredible wedding experience – it was truly epic!