Joining us for this lovely Friday is Alex and Mel, who are excited to share their charming real wedding story with us. On August 18th, 2018, they exchanged vows at High Billinghurst Farm in Surrey, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The rustic barn reception was transformed into a picturesque setting with peach and purple flowers adorning every corner. The bouquets were stunning, and the fireplace installation featuring lush greenery made for a truly memorable moment. Additional details that added to the ambiance included tassel garlands, terrarium centrepieces, and foliage-adorned seating arrangements. Foodies will be delighted by the magnificent naked chocolate cake, which not only looked incredible but also reportedly tasted as good as it looked. The stylish attire worn by the couple and their guests was complemented by garden games on the lawn, live music in the evening, and a delicious serving of Mac and Cheese. The warm, romantic atmosphere was masterfully captured by Larissa Joice Photography, and we’re thrilled to share these wonderful moments with you today.
The Proposal
As I reminisce about that magical moment, I’m transported back to Christmas Eve 2016 when Alex took me to Newlands Corner in Surrey – a picturesque spot offering breathtaking views of the Surrey Hills. The atmosphere was electric as we savored every second of our special celebration, surrounded by loved ones and the festive spirit. Little did I know then that this would be the start of an unforgettable chapter in my life.
The Vision
We aimed for a laid-back atmosphere, craving an effortlessly casual vibe that would allow us to unwind and be ourselves. With a strong desire to infuse the day with personalized elements, we sought to craft a unique experience that truly reflected our personalities.
The Planning Process
After much deliberation, my partner and I found ourselves scouring London and Surrey’s wedding venues in search of the perfect spot to exchange our vows. It wasn’t until we stumbled upon a venue that truly resonated with us that the planning process began to fall into place. Having been engaged for 18 months at the time, we had ample opportunity to meticulously arrange every detail, leaving no stone unturned as we prepared for the big day.
The Readings & Music
As I made my way down the aisle, the soothing sounds of Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Songbird’ filled the air, a sentimental choice that held special meaning for us. To add a personal touch to the ceremony, Alex’s dad selected a meaningful biblical reading, while my friend penned her own heartfelt piece, cleverly weaving the story of how Alex and I first met. The outcome was nothing short of magical, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
Your Outfits & Accessories
As I embarked on my wedding dress search, I found myself overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. After careful consideration, I settled on a stunning gown from Sanyukta Shrestha, seeking a design that exuded romance, whimsy, and above all, comfort throughout the day’s celebrations.
For my footwear, I opted for a pair of wedding shoes from Faber Novella, drawn to their vibrant hues and exceptional comfort. A practical decision, considering I envisioned wearing them again in the future.
Meanwhile, Alex entrusted his tailor-made suit to Beggar’s Run, a London-based establishment offering premium quality and top-notch service. This modern alternative to traditional Saville Row tailors proved to be an excellent choice.
The Details & Décor
We were fortunate enough to have Devine Bride expertly manage the day’s logistics, ensuring that everything progressed smoothly without any hiccups. Laura was an absolute pleasure to work with – her professionalism and helpfulness shone through at all times! Although we had done most of the setup the day prior, Laura double-checked everything was in order come morning wedding-day.
One creative endeavour I undertook was crafting a flower frame, which I wanted to create a unique photo opportunity for our guests throughout the day. Happily, it turned out to be a breeze to make and our guests absolutely adored it! We also took advantage of the outdoor space by gathering lawn games over time, providing an additional form of entertainment for our loved ones. Lastly, we put together our own photobooth and brought a polaroid along with some fun props, allowing our guests to capture and cherish memories from throughout the evening.
The Flowers
We had the pleasure of collaborating with Mad Lilies, one of the esteemed florists selected by the venue. Alison’s infectious enthusiasm and passion for her craft truly shone through as we worked together to bring our vision to life. For our wedding flowers, we opted for a bohemian-inspired look that incorporated an abundance of summery hues like pink, peach, and purple to harmonize with the lush foliage that surrounded us at the venue. I was particularly fond of my own bridal bouquet, as well as the stunning fireplace design Alison created – it became a showstopping focal point in the main barn.
The Venue
As we stepped into High Billinghurst Farm in Dunsfold, Surrey, we knew instantly that this was the ideal setting for our special day. We were thrilled to have the freedom to transform the venue to suit our unique style and preferences. With the farm at our disposal from Friday to Sunday, we had ample time to set up and prepare for the big event. The expansive property boasts not one, but two impressive indoor barns and a vast outdoor space – a perfect haven for a summer wedding.
The Cake
Our wedding cake was a labor of love, crafted by my dear friend Ashleigh. Together, we opted for a unique deconstructed chocolate design featuring a delightful feuilletine crunch as the filling. To give it a personal touch, we incorporated some of our cherished wedding flowers into the decoration. The end result was not only visually stunning but also an absolute delight to indulge in.
Groomsmen
In an effort to achieve a cohesive look, we opted for a compromise between personal style and visual harmony. The groomsmen were allowed to choose their own navy suits, while we supplied the ties from Mrs. Bow Tie to provide a touch of uniformity in the photos.
Bridesmaids
I recall the experience of selecting dresses for my bridesmaids, with one standout choice being the Garland Maxi Dress from Monsoon. After trying on various options, it was clear that the Monsoon dresses were the top contenders among my attendants. They appreciated the versatility of these dresses, which allowed them to be worn in multiple ways. Moreover, the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of the Monsoon garments left a lasting impression.
Beauty
As soon as I arrived at the trial, I knew I was in good hands with Rachael from Alchemy Hair and Make-up, who would be tackling my locks and complexion. Her reputation for mastering the coveted ‘undone’ look preceded her, and I was eager to see her work her magic. My primary concern leading up to the big day was appearing overdone, but Rach expertly navigated the fine line between glamour and natural elegance, leaving me feeling confident and radiant from start to finish. Her entire team shared her attention to detail, with my mum and bridesmaids all receiving rave reviews for their freshened-up looks. Overall, I would wholeheartedly recommend Alchemy Hair and Make-up to anyone seeking a seamless blend of style and sophistication.
Your Photographer
We had the pleasure of collaborating with Larissa Joice Photography for our special day. Her ability to grasp our vision and expectations for our wedding photos made the experience truly seamless. The pre-wedding briefing proved to be an invaluable tool in setting the tone for capturing the essence of our celebration. The final product was a stunning collection of memories, with friends and loved ones commenting on the joy and happiness that radiated from each shot. Additionally, Larissa’s attention to detail didn’t stop at the wedding itself. She also sent us a comprehensive welcome package upon booking confirmation, as well as a thoughtful gift box after the big day, which was a delightful surprise months later.
The Honeymoon
As we embarked on our dreamy honeymoon adventure, we chose Puglia as the idyllic setting to unwind and recharge. Our home base was Borgo Canonica, a serene retreat that perfectly captured the essence of tranquility. With no distractions or noise pollution, it was the perfect haven for us to reflect on our recent wedding celebrations, reliving every precious moment from start to finish.
Memorable Moments
As I look back on our special day, it’s the little moments that stand out the most. Like how my bridesmaids and parents helped me get ready in the morning, filling the air with laughter and excitement. And then there was the moment I’ll never forget – walking down the aisle and laying eyes on Alex for the first time. It’s a feeling like no other, knowing that this person is meant to be by your side forever. Of course, we also indulged in some well-deserved celebration after saying our vows. A round of Espresso Martinis went down a treat, just what we needed to toast our happiness! Music played a big role in our wedding celebrations too – our first dance as husband and wife was to Prince’s iconic hit Wanna Be Your Lover. And let’s not forget the food – we had Mac and Cheese served throughout the evening, it was a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Advice For Other Couples
Credit Where Credit Is Due
It’s a match made in heaven when couples combine their unique styles to create an unforgettable wedding celebration. For Alex and Mel, that meant bringing together Larissa Joice Photography and On The Day Coordination to capture the magic of their special day. At the beautiful St Peter’s Church in Hascombe, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque views, the couple exchanged vows in a ceremony that was truly divine. As they transitioned into the reception at High Billinghurst Farm, guests were treated to an evening of merriment and feasting courtesy of Feast Event Catering. To set the tone, Southdown Marquees provided top-notch furniture hire, lighting, and PA services. Meanwhile, Smooth Sailors had everyone grooving on the dance floor. The floral arrangements, courtesy of Mad Lilies, added a pop of color to the festivities, while Webbs of Weybridge ensured that Alex and Mel’s journey continued smoothly with their reliable car hire services. As they prepared for the big night, Alchemy Hair and Makeup worked their magic to give the happy couple an unforgettable look. Sanyukta Shrestha created a stunning dress for Alex, paired with Faber Novella shoes that were simply beguiling. Beggar’s Run helped Mel find his perfect suit, complete with a dapper tie from Mrs Bow Tie. The bridesmaid dresses, courtesy of Monsoon, added a touch of elegance to the proceedings. For their honeymoon getaway, Alex and Mel chose the picturesque Borgo Canonica, where they no doubt enjoyed every moment of their romantic escape. It’s been an absolute pleasure to share this love story with you, and I raise a glass to Alex and Mel – may your love continue to flourish for many years to come.