Chris and Natalie’s wedding at Hengrave Hall in Suffolk was a quintessential English celebration that exuded elegance from start to finish. The couple wanted their special day to be filled with classic charm, and they certainly achieved that. From the blush tones to the decorative touches, every detail was meticulously planned to create an atmosphere of refinement and sophistication. One of the standout features of the wedding was the clear signage, which added a touch of whimsy and playfulness to the proceedings. The festoon lighting on the terrace was another highlight, as it transformed the space into a romantic haven later in the evening. Gemma Giorgio captured the magic of the day through her lens, and we’re thrilled to share these stunning images with you. Chris, looking dashing in his tuxedo, was supported by his well-dressed groomsmen, while Natalie shone in her exquisite Suzanne Neville gown. The bridesmaids added a pop of color and glamour to the proceedings, making for an unforgettable visual spectacle. As we gaze upon these lovely images, we’re reminded that sometimes it’s the little things – like the beautiful blooms and epic cake – that make all the difference.
The Proposal
The 30th birthday trip to Rio de Janeiro proved to be an unforgettable experience for me, thanks to Chris’s thoughtful gesture. He had been carrying the ring wrapped in his hoody for over a week, and I was oblivious to its significance. Every time I asked him why he brought a hoody considering the scorching heat, he would simply smile, knowing that the surprise was still to come. Finally, on our balcony at a fairytale location in Rio, Chris got down on one knee and proposed to me, making the moment even more special.
The Vision
As we embarked on the journey to find the perfect property, a common desire emerged – to create a sense of familiarity and connection with our heritage. For us, that meant seeking out something quintessentially English, a place that felt distinctly local for both our families. Simultaneously, we craved classic features that would exude elegance and sophistication.
The Planning Process
The success of the day was largely due to my mum’s invaluable assistance. She kept a meticulous record of all tasks and deadlines, a task I initially thought I could handle on my own until we embarked on this planning process. The past six months have flown by, and it seemed like there was always something that needed to be arranged or booked. We had 18 months to plan the event, but in hindsight, it went surprisingly quickly. Having Hengrave’s recommendations for trusted suppliers made our job easier, as they took care of logistical details, freeing us up to focus on other aspects.
The Venue
From the moment we started planning our event at Hengrave Hall in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, the team truly impressed us with their exceptional support. Their responsiveness was remarkable – my emails were always answered promptly, and they never failed to accommodate our requests. Their expertise was invaluable, making them a true asset to have on board. I would wholeheartedly recommend Hengrave Hall without reservation.
Beauty
As we got ready to celebrate the big day, the team at Botias came in to work their magic on the bridal party’s locks. Led by the talented Kat and Charli, they expertly styled the hair and applied makeup for the bride, her bridesmaids, and mother of the bride, creating a flawless look that set the tone for an unforgettable wedding experience.
The Readings & Music
As the civil ceremony came to a close, we were treated to the soothing sounds of a harpist, whose presence continued throughout dinner. The atmosphere was further elevated by her beautiful renditions of classic songs during the signing process, which featured ‘Fields of gold’, ‘What a wonderful world’ and ‘Can you feel the love tonight’. It was at this moment that I found myself thoroughly enjoying her performance and grateful for the decision to include her in our special day. Her unique talent added a touch of elegance to those moments, leaving a lasting impression on me. Meanwhile, the evening’s entertainment was handled by a DJ spinning laid-back acoustic tunes during the drinks reception, before giving way to a high-energy band that kept the party going late into the night.
Bridesmaids
I’m grateful to have five wonderful bridesmaids – Clarissa, Claire, Katrina, Sharon, and Zoe – who are also my closest friends. Despite their busy lives scattered across the country, Manchester, Chelmsford, and London, when we’re together it feels like no time has passed since our last get-together. My decision to choose Jenny Yoo for my bridesmaid dresses was an easy one; although they don’t have a UK store, I ordered them online, knowing they would be the perfect fit for each of my girls. Meanwhile, our niece Olivia stole the show as our flower girl, looking lovely in her classic white ensemble from Next – a cardigan, shoes, and dress that exuded elegance and innocence.
Groomsmen
Chris opted for a unique approach to his groomsmen attire by renting their outfits from Alexandra Wood. This decision was motivated by his desire to create a visually appealing contrast between the suits worn by his groomsmen/ushers and his own. With a party of 10, Chris wanted each suit to be exceptional, and his efforts paid off. His best man, brother Edd, was joined by my brothers Lloyd and Grant, as well as their friends James, Dan, Alex, and the couple’s fathers, and even two young nephews, Alex and Harry, who took on ushering duties.
The Suit
Chris commissioned a bespoke suit from Alexandra Wood in Bishops Stortford, and his experience was seamless from the initial consultation with Alex. As they worked together, Chris’s apprehensions vanished, replaced by a sense of excitement as he envisioned the final product. The result was stunning – a three-piece midnight blue tuxedo that exceeded his expectations. On the day of the event, Chris received countless compliments on his unique and stylish attire. Moreover, the quality of the suit itself met his lofty standards, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship that left him thoroughly impressed. His goal had been to stand out without being too bold or flashy, and Alexandra Wood’s bespoke service delivered precisely that.
The Dress & Accessories
The Boutique Wardrobe in Ingatestone proved to be a treasure trove of style inspiration for my big day. Their team’s expertise was on full display as they guided me towards the perfect dress – one that had initially caught my eye, but ultimately won me over thanks to their insider knowledge. The Suzanne Neville design I fell in love with was a testament to the boutique’s keen eye for detail and ability to bring out the best in each garment. In fact, it was at the boutique where I met the designer herself, who even drew up a bespoke sketch of my dress – a truly unique experience! The Suzanne Neville belt I wore in the evening was another gem discovered during that initial shopping spree, and its timeless elegance perfectly complemented my overall look. Meanwhile, the veil I chose held special significance as it was my mother’s own veil, passed down to me for the occasion. To complete my look, I opted for Rachel Simpson shoes – a classic choice that proved just as comfortable as they were stylish.
The Flowers
The moment I received my bouquet, tears of joy pricked at the corners of my eyes – a testament to the profound impact those flowers had on our special day. Tudor Rose florist in Bury St Edmunds truly showcased their expertise and craftsmanship, delivering blooms that perfectly mirrored the Pinterest-perfect images I had shared with them. Even the tiny flower girl tiara was an exquisite touch, further solidifying my emotional response to the overall aesthetic.
Your Photographer
Gemma Giorgio’s photography expertise played a crucial role in capturing the essence of our special day. Her unique style perfectly aligned with our vision, and we were thoroughly delighted with the stunning photos she produced. To make us feel more comfortable in front of the camera, Gemma even conducted a pre-wedding photo shoot, which not only helped to break the ice but also allowed her to get a glimpse into our personalities. On the day itself, she struck the perfect balance between being relaxed and professional, ensuring that every moment was captured with precision and flair.
Your Filmmaker
The experience of having Fond Media capture our special day was nothing short of extraordinary. We booked them at the last minute, just a week prior, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. Their unobtrusive approach left us feeling like they were barely there, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the moment. Now that the video is complete, we can’t get enough of reliving our special day through their masterful storytelling. It’s truly magical to be able to watch it over and over again!
The Details & Décor
A Little Touch of Heaven exceeded our expectations by incorporating every detail we had envisioned into the event. After sharing several photos, they meticulously recreated the setting, adding personal touches like custom welcome signs and chair covers. The acrylic table names, framed with rose gold, perfectly matched our desired aesthetic. Their attention to detail ensured that the rose gold and clear signage seamlessly blended into the overall atmosphere.
Dreamwaves brought the party to life with their talented DJ and ambient lighting, transforming the courtyard into an enchanting space with festoons and hanging jars. The walkway runner added a touch of elegance to the civil ceremony. As the evening fell, the fairy lights on the West Terrace created a romantic ambiance, beautifully capturing the joy of our guests.
The Cake
The team at Vanilla Cake Design impressed us with their exceptional skills, having been recommended by Hengrave. The real showstopper, however, was the cake tasting experience itself. We received an abundance of delightful comments on the flavors – Red Velvet, Strawberry, and Caramel stood out as particular highlights.
The Honeymoon
Our African adventure began with a six-day Kenyan safari, courtesy of Kuoni. As we settled into the rhythm of savannah life, my wife and I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this opportunity to connect with nature and each other. The experience was so enriching that I’m already contemplating our next African escapade, eager to relive the thrill of spotting exotic wildlife and immersing ourselves in the continent’s vibrant cultures.
Memorable Moments
The memory of Chris’s emotional presence at the altar still lingers vividly within me. The overwhelming sense of love and devotion in that moment was palpable, leaving an indelible mark on my heart. As we mingled with our guests during the reception, I couldn’t help but be filled with joy as I gazed out upon the beautiful West Terrace. The outdoor space at this venue had captivated me from the start, and witnessing everyone’s delight as they explored its grounds was a truly heartwarming experience – exactly what I had envisioned for our special day.
Advice For Other Couples
While investing in a professional videographer may add to your overall expenses, the end result can be truly priceless. The opportunity to relive cherished moments and create a lasting visual record of your experience makes the extra cost more than justified.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
The wedding of Natalie and Chris was a testament to the power of meticulous planning, as evidenced by their impressive array of vendors and suppliers. Behind the scenes, talented individuals like photographer Gemma Giorgio and videographer Fond Media brought their vision to life. The groom’s suit, courtesy of Alexandra Wood Bespoke and Suit Hire, perfectly complemented the stunning dress designed by Suzanne Neville from The Bespoke Wardrobe. Rachel Simpson added a touch of elegance with her exquisite shoe design. The picturesque Hengrave Hall served as the venue, where Milsom Weddings catered to the couple’s every culinary whim. Boogie Brothers, via Entertainment Nation and WWW wedding suppliers members – Wedding Entertainment, got the party started with their lively performance. Little Touch of Heaven brought a touch of whimsy with their decor hire, while Ely Fudge Company satisfied sweet tooths with their delectable treats. Botias handled hair and makeup duties, Tudor Rose crafted breathtaking floral arrangements, and The Cambridge Harpist provided serene harp melodies. Vanilla Cake Design created a masterpiece for the couple’s special day, and Dreamwave Events brought the party to life with their DJ and lighting expertise. Rising High Balloons added an extra layer of magic with their balloons. We’re honored that Natalie and Chris chose to share their special day with us.