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We’re thrilled to feature Nat and Matt’s industrial-chic wedding at Holmes Mill in Lancashire, which took place on May 3rd, 2019. As they described their special day to me, it was all about embracing a laid-back atmosphere filled with laughter and joy. Their talented photographer, Siobhan Amy Photography, perfectly captured the essence of their celebration, and we’re grateful for her contribution. Nat and Matt’s wedding was a masterclass in personal style, as they cleverly incorporated the venue’s industrial charm into their decor. Long wooden tables, old school chairs, festoon lights, and lush greenery created a unique setting that beautifully complemented their rustic elegance. The show-stopping greenery arch adorned with a neon sign made a dramatic impact at both the ceremony and reception, while giant helium balloons added a touch of whimsy to the top table. Don’t miss the stunning semi-naked drip cake or elegant calligraphy stationery – they’re truly unforgettable. Now, let’s talk fashion! Nat looked breathtaking in her flowing gown with lace top by Catherine Deane, paired with a custom-painted leather jacket. Matt and his groomsmen were dapper in their tuxedos, while the bridesmaids stunned in mismatched dresses featuring a harmonious palette of blue, grey, and silver. It was truly a wonderful day to remember.
The Proposal
As we strolled along Rivington’s scenic paths, a place that holds sentimental value for both of us, Matt got down on one knee and proposed. Little did I know at the time, it was part of a carefully planned celebration that had already begun. The morning rush was replaced with an air of excitement as he hurried me out the door to share our special moment. After sharing the news with my parents – although Dad had already been privy to the plan, having given his blessing beforehand – we embarked on a tour of our favourite Manchester haunts to mark the occasion.
The Vision
The Planning Process
Matt and I collaborated seamlessly, discussing our goals and preferences. He granted me creative liberty, allowing me to conduct research and develop ideas before we sat down together to review and refine the details. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, I limited my research time and focused on making steady progress.
Beauty
I’m fortunate to have a trusted friend and skilled hairstylist, Lou, who’s also a talented makeup artist. When it came to getting ready for my wedding day, I put my hair and beauty fate in her capable hands. I shared with her my desire for effortless, wavy locks with added volume, as well as some Pinterest-inspired makeup looks that caught my eye. With my explicit approval, she worked her magic. Knowing me so well, Lou understood exactly what I would appreciate and how to enhance my features. The end result was nothing short of stunning. As the days have passed since the big day, it’s hard not to feel a pang of disappointment – my hair and makeup just don’t seem to live up to that exceptional standard anymore…
The Venue
After getting engaged, my partner and I attended a wedding fair at Holmes Mill, where our minds were made up within minutes. Prior to that, we had scouted around 5 potential venues, but none compared to the unique charm of Holmes Mill. What truly set it apart was the exceptional staff – warm, welcoming, and eager to assist. Moreover, the canteen’s classic menu offerings resonated with us, as we wanted to serve comforting fare (our choice being fish & chips and pie & mash) and my partner appreciated the impressive beer selection.
Your Outfits & Accessories
As it turns out, my friend Justine had been raving about her acquaintance Kim’s new bridal shop in Clitheroe for a while. I started following Kim on Instagram and was introduced to Catherine Deane’s stunning designs. Her range immediately resonated with me as I knew I didn’t want a traditional princess-inspired dress. Instead, I opted for something understated yet still uniquely ‘me’. I sought out a statement shoe that would add a touch of glamour and found the perfect pair at Ted Baker – they were surprisingly comfortable too! To further emphasize my personal style, I wore a leather jacket designed by Kate Illustrative for part of the day, embracing my inner rock chick. The overall look was a beautiful blend of elegance and edginess.
The Readings & Music
As we prepared for our special day, we turned to music as a way to make it truly unforgettable. We spent hours selecting the perfect tracks to accompany us down the aisle, with my walkway song being a beautiful string version of ‘Whatever’ by Oasis – a nod to my favorite band. As I made my exit, I walked out to the energetic beats of ‘Do I Wanna Know’ by Arctic Monkeys, a fitting choice given our shared love for the band. Our first dance as newlyweds was a romantic affair, set to the poignant lyrics of Noel Gallagher’s ‘If I Had a Gun’. We both have a deep affection for his work, and the song proved to be a timeless choice. To complete the musical experience, we hired Chris Stocks, an accomplished acoustic musician who had previously played at friends’ weddings. He masterfully curated a playlist that set the tone for our celebration from start to finish, seamlessly transitioning between acoustic sets and DJing in the evening. His exceptional talent left a lasting impression on our guests, with many taking the time to seek him out and praise his incredible performance.
Bridesmaids
When it came to choosing attire for my five bridesmaids, I decided to give each of them the freedom to select a dress that reflected their unique style and preferences. While I provided some general guidelines – such as suggesting long dresses in shades of blue, grey, or silver with varying fabrics – I deliberately avoided imposing a uniform look. Instead, I wanted each bridesmaid to feel confident and comfortable in her chosen gown, knowing it suited her individual personality. The result was a group of stunning, distinctively dressed ladies who looked radiant on the big day.
Groomsmen
From the outset, Matt was resolute in his vision for a contemporary tuxedo. Following an initial exploration of various options, he settled on the esteemed Ted Baker brand, opting to have one tailored to perfection to suit his unique physique. Meanwhile, the groomsmen donned their own tuxedos, each one reflecting their individual style and flair.
The Flowers
Our experience working with Sam Williams, a frequent collaborator with HM, was truly exceptional. Her initial concept revolved around foliage and gypsophila, paired with grey carnations or thistles to complement the BM dresses that we had previously discussed with her. We were thoroughly impressed by her unique style and approach, which instilled confidence in her ability to bring our vision to life. When she suggested incorporating succulents into the arrangement, it was a bold yet inspired decision that added an extra layer of sophistication to the overall design. Given Sam’s expertise, we felt comfortable entrusting her with the creative direction, allowing us to simply relax and enjoy the end result. The final product was nothing short of breathtaking, garnering numerous compliments from our guests. Throughout the entire process, Sam demonstrated a rare blend of talent, professionalism, and warmth, making her an absolute pleasure to work with.
The Details & Décor
To create a striking atmosphere, we kept the room’s natural charm intact by making minimal adjustments. A neon sign and oversized Mr. & Mrs. balloons were all that was needed to add a touch of whimsy. By the entrance, an easel displayed a thoughtful running order for guests’ reference.
The Cake
Finch Bakery, run by twin sisters, is where we sourced our show-stopping semi-naked cake for the special occasion. The bakery offers a mix of traditional flavors and innovative options, such as candy floss-inspired treats. We opted for a three-tier masterpiece featuring Lemon, Chocolate Orange, and Raspberry layers. As a sweet bonus, the lovely ladies also prepared 12 peanut butter cupcakes, a thoughtful nod to our shared love for the nutty spread. The end result was nothing short of breathtaking – both visually stunning and utterly delicious.
Your Photographer
I stumbled upon Siobhan’s Instagram profile and was thrilled to discover her work. Her impact on our special day was immense, as she seamlessly integrated herself into our group of friends. When she arrived at my hotel room, I felt like she had been part of the crew from the start. What struck me was her ability to strike the perfect balance between posed shots and candid moments. As Matt and I aren’t typically comfortable in front of a camera, it was crucial that we felt at ease. Siobhan’s warm demeanor and professionalism put us at ease, allowing us to relax and be ourselves. The resulting photos were outstanding, with nearly every frame capturing the joy and laughter that defined our day. Siobhan’s exceptional talent lies in her ability to distill the essence of an event – in this case, our wedding celebration – and present it in a way that truly reflects the spirit of the occasion.
The Honeymoon
As we embarked on our Italian escapade, two weeks flew by in a whirlwind of romance, culture, and culinary delights. Our journey began shortly after the wedding, with a couple of days’ notice before departing for Rome, Florence, Lake Garda, Verona, and ultimately, Venice. We sought an adventure that was both exciting and accessible, without venturing too far from home. Italy proved to be the perfect blend of romance, delectable cuisine, and rich history, making it the ideal destination for our post-wedding getaway.
Memorable Moments
As I walked down the aisle, Matt’s smile beamed bright for the first time that day, and it was in this moment that our favorite part of the celebration unfolded. It was a ceremony filled with love and laughter, setting the tone for an unforgettable day ahead.
The excitement began earlier that morning as my bridesmaids and I arrived at the hotel in a vintage VW camper van, courtesy of my thoughtful parents, who surprised me with this unique mode of transportation.
As the night drew to a close, we let our hair down – literally! A group sing-along to The Shallows brought everyone together in a joyful finale, orchestrated by none other than my clever Dad.
Advice For Other Couples
As you prepare to say ‘I do’, remember to let go of any lingering stress or anxiety. It’s essential to focus on the present moment and the joy of sharing this special day with your partner. In the grand scheme, minor details won’t define the success of your wedding – what truly matters is that both of you are there, surrounded by love, laughter, and happiness.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
As we reminisce about the enchanting wedding of Nat and Matt, it’s hard not to be mesmerized by the talented individuals who brought their special day to life. Behind the lens was Siobhan Amy Photography, capturing every precious moment with precision and flair. The picturesque venue, Holmes Mill, provided a stunning backdrop for the celebration, while Sam Williams Flowers added a touch of elegance with their beautiful blooms. Chris Stocks’ music selection set the tone for an unforgettable night, as Catherine Deane from Kimberley Anne Bridal Boutique ensured Nat looked radiant in her stunning dress. Finch Bakery’s delectable cake was the perfect treat, and Balloon Installation added a playful pop of color to the atmosphere. Louise Penny worked her magic with hair and makeup, while Kate Illustrate crafted a custom jacket that perfectly complemented the overall aesthetic. Bride’s Little Helper took care of all the stationery needs, and Ted Baker provided the stylish shoes for Nat to walk down the aisle in. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all these incredible individuals who helped make their special day truly unforgettable.