I’m thrilled to share the enchanting story of Ben and Katie’s backyard marquee wedding, a celebration that exceeded expectations despite being downsized due to COVID-19 restrictions. The couple exchanged vows on September 5th, 2020, in an intimate church ceremony, followed by a relaxed at-home reception for 30 guests. This unconventional setting allowed for a uniquely laid-back atmosphere, which was elevated by the impromptu performance of one of their guests – a moment that would’ve been lost at a larger wedding. The air must have been electric!What I love most about this special day is not just the stunning floral arrangements and exquisite outfits, but also the understated yet charming decor within the marquee. And then there are the breathtaking images captured by Only Lovers, which I’m honored to feature here.
Back Garden Marquee Wedding
The Proposal
As we strolled through the picturesque countryside woods, I couldn’t help but reminisce about the good old days when Ben and I would spend hours lounging on those iconic hammocks he brought back from Thailand. Little did I know, this was more than just a casual hangout session. Ben’s friends had been secretly planning a surprise celebration at our beloved ‘hammock spot’ for what felt like an eternity. They briefed me to keep the event under wraps and simply bring Ben to the location. As we arrived, I was struck by the sheer scale of the setup – rows of bunting, twinkling fairy lights, and a hint of excitement in the air. But just as I thought it was all going down, Ben dropped to one knee and proposed! The plot twist? There never was a surprise party – it was all an elaborate ruse. To my utter delight, a jazz band emerged from the woods, and before we knew it, our families arrived with an assortment of pizzas and sushi, marking the beginning of this unforgettable journey.
The Vision
Without a clear aesthetic direction in mind, our goal was to create a relaxed and homespun atmosphere.
The Planning Process
With the pandemic throwing a wrench into our original plans, my partner and I found ourselves facing an unprecedented 14-month planning marathon. Initially, we were set to tie the knot in a rustic barn with over 150 guests, but COVID-19 forced us to reassess. We toyed with the idea of postponing until next year, but the desire to be together sooner took precedence. This led to several months of uncertainty and unconventional preparation, as we struggled to navigate an ever-changing landscape.
The Venue
Step into the charming surroundings of St James The Less in Pangbourne and experience the magic of a marquee in the garden. For those seeking an unconventional and unique venue for their special occasion, white bison tipi hire offers a luxurious and intimate atmosphere. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by lush greenery or toasting with loved ones beneath the stars. With its sleek design and ample space, this tipi is perfect for hosting an unforgettable celebration. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday party, or corporate event, St James The Less and white bison tipi hire will ensure that your day is nothing short of extraordinary.
Your Outfits & Accessories
The search for my dream wedding dress led me to Sophie Grace Bridal, where I fell in love with the San Patrick Codamine design. What caught my eye was its understated elegance, characterized by a flowy silhouette and delicate lace details that replaced beaded embellishments. The dress effortlessly embodied the simplicity I had envisioned, making it the perfect choice for my special day.
Beauty
The iconic hair design duo, Adam & Eve, brings a touch of whimsy to their latest creation – a stunning haridresser featuring a beautiful flower crown, expertly woven together with curls that cascade both up and down.
Groomsmen
Bridesmaids
When it came to selecting the perfect bridesmaid dress for my cousin, who was a part of our bridal party, we made the decision to opt for something stylish and affordable. We found her dress at Next, a popular retailer known for its on-trend and reasonably priced clothing options.
The Readings & Music
The Covid-19 pandemic brought about an unconventional twist to our wedding celebration – no readings were held. However, music played a significant role in making the day truly unforgettable. Benedict Cork’s performance added a touch of elegance as we exchanged vows, with Cannon in D being the perfect accompaniment. As we departed, ‘You Make My Dreams Come True’ set the tone for an evening filled with joy and revelry. Although we didn’t initially plan a first dance, the speeches sparked an impromptu dance party that got everyone on their feet, swaying to the beat of Chuck Berry’s ‘You Never Can Tell’. The infectious energy was palpable as friends and family came together to celebrate our love.
The Flowers
For the Queen Bee Bridal arrangement, I drew inspiration from the beauty of nature, combining a medley of textures and colors to create a one-of-a-kind piece. The foundation consisted of lush wild grasses, complemented by delicate roses and an abundance of loose greenery that added depth and visual interest.
The Cake
The star of the show was the majestic Victoria sponge cake, lovingly crafted by my cousin and presented in its unadorned yet elegant glory.
Your Photographer
The Details & Décor
With the help of Flowers by Queen Bee Bridal, I took charge of most of the décor myself. I made a significant investment in fairy lights, which added a whimsical touch to the overall aesthetic. Additionally, I created the calligraphy for the signage, table names, and seating plan, ensuring a cohesive look throughout the marquee. To achieve a cozy rustic ambiance, I placed wooden runners on the tables and filled wooden boxes with candles, photographs, and fresh flowers, creating intimate nooks that invited guests to linger.
The Honeymoon
Memorable Moments
One of the most cherished memories from the wedding was when my neighbour, inspired by the celebratory atmosphere, pulled out his guitar and started playing Beatles hits with his wife for everyone’s enjoyment. The spontaneous performance was a perfect fit for the warm, laid-back vibe of the intimate gathering. It was as if we had stumbled upon an impromptu open mic night.Another unforgettable moment was when I drove up to the church, only to be met at the bottom of our driveway by my cousins who were unable to attend the service due to Covid restrictions. They cheered me on and offered their well-wishes before I made my way down the aisle, making the special moment all the more meaningful.
Advice For Other Couples
As the big day unfolds, let go of overthinking and simply enjoy every moment. Embrace the freedom to do as you please, and savor the joy that comes with it. Behind the scenes, a talented team worked together to bring this stunning garden marquee wedding to life. Photographer [Photographer] captured the beauty and magic of Ben and Katie’s special day, while Only Lovers’ soulful sounds filled the air. The elegant attire was provided by San Patrick from Sophie Grace Bridal for the happy couple, and Moss Bros for the gentlemen. The bridesmaid dress was a stunning choice, and Queen Bee Bridal added a touch of whimsy with their gorgeous flowers. We’re thrilled to share Ben and Katie’s real wedding story with you – thank them for letting us be a part of it! 😉