Join me as we step into the charming world of Diana and Steve’s September 12th, 2018 wedding at Pembroke Lodge in London. This intimate celebration was a masterclass in romance and joy, with every detail exuding warmth and love. One of the most striking aspects of their special day is the impeccable styling that brought out the best in both bride and groom. Steve made a stylish impression in his navy blue suit, perfectly complemented by a rich burgundy tie and coordinating buttonhole. Meanwhile, Diana’s custom-made dress was a showstopper – a stunning satin top paired with a flowing tulle tea-length skirt that cascaded down her figure like a dream. Her look was complete with delicate veils, elegant pearl jewelry, and bold red lipstick, making her truly unforgettable.The floral arrangements were another standout feature of the day, with deep red hydrangeas and bright orange dahlias perfectly balanced by lush greenery. The pièce de résistance was the breathtaking fireplace arrangement that brought the entire reception room to life. I’m thrilled to have Mark O’Brien Photography’s incredible captures to share with you today, giving us a front-row seat to this unforgettable celebration.
The Proposal
For months, Steve had been thinking about proposing to me, having already ordered the engagement ring in advance. When the time finally came, he chose a romantic setting – Prague’s Charles Bridge – during our holiday in November 2017. In an attempt to surprise me, Steve tried to propose while sitting on a bench together, but I politely declined until he got down on one knee and did it properly. Flushed with embarrassment, Steve eventually proposed in style, asking me to be his wife as the bustling bridge was filled with tourists. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone around us clapping and even capturing the special moment on camera.
The Vision
As we began planning our wedding, my partner and I were clear about one thing: we didn’t want it to be over-the-top or extravagant. Instead, we aimed to create a celebration that was both understated yet still left a lasting impression on our loved ones. With nine months of preparations ahead of us, we were determined to stick to this vision throughout the entire process.
The Planning Process
As we navigated the engagement period in mid-November, our minds began to turn to the intricacies of planning our special day. The first hurdle was selecting the ideal season for our wedding – would it be spring, summer, autumn, or winter? We also deliberated over specific dates, numbers significant to our relationship, and whether we wanted a UK-based celebration or one abroad. This process helped us clarify the guest list, which in turn influenced other key decisions, such as the number of attendees and the overall tone of the event. However, it was the task of setting a date that proved the most daunting challenge for us. Once this crucial aspect was settled, we were able to proceed with greater confidence, tackling the next hurdle: choosing a wedding venue. We opted not to hire a professional organiser, as I had a clear vision for our special day and preferred to handle the arrangements myself. With my husband working full-time, it allowed me the flexibility to devote time and energy to planning our big day. In hindsight, I believe it’s impossible to effectively plan a wedding while juggling a full-time job – the demands of both would be too great. Thankfully, Steve was supportive, offering emotional support when needed and contributing financially to help us stay within budget. As we worked together, we kept our focus on teamwork and avoided disagreements by open communication and compromise. Planning a wedding can indeed be a source of stress, but with the right mindset and collaborative approach, it’s possible to navigate this period successfully.
Budget
We opted for a practical approach when setting our wedding budget, ensuring it was aligned with our financial reality. Our decision to be frugal stemmed from a desire to prioritize saving over extravagance. Ultimately, we settled on a budget of £15,000, which we felt was a reasonable and achievable amount for our special day.
The Readings & Music
As we prepared for the Civil Service, we decided to forego traditional readings and instead opt for a pair of Bible Readings during our blessing ceremony. This intimate moment took place mere minutes after the registrar’s departure. We enlisted the help of two dear friends to deliver these heartfelt readings from Colossians 3:14-20 and 1 Corinthians 13:1-8, 13, respectively. The chosen passages proved equally captivating and inspiring for us.To surprise our guests, we commissioned Liquid Strings, led by the talented Brian Lee, to provide an enchanting musical performance. The string trio delivered a stunning setlist, which included ‘1000 Years’ by C. Perri during the bride’s entrance, ‘A Day Like This’ by Elbow as the register was signed, ‘O Mio Bambino Caro’ by Puccini after the first Bible reading, ‘Kissing You’ by Des’ree as we exchanged our vows, ‘It’s a Wonderful World’ by L. Armstrong during the ring exchange, and finally, Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto 3 accompanied the bride and groom’s exit.In contrast to the pre-reception deliberations about hiring a DJ, we ultimately decided against it and instead relied on an iPod loaded with our curated Spotify playlists. We created two distinct playlists – one for our wedding breakfast and another for the reception. The former featured soothing instrumental tracks, while the latter showcased our personal favorites, including Elvis Presley, Ella Fitzgerald, Mumford & Sons, Ed Sheeran, Johnny Cash, and 80s classics.As we took to the dance floor for our first dance, we chose ‘These Arms of Mine’ by Otis Redding, its romantic lyrics speaking directly to our hearts. Our second option was another sentimental favorite, ‘The Wonder of You’ by Elvis Presley.
The Venue
As soon as we laid eyes on Pembroke Lodge, we knew it was the perfect setting for our special day. Not only did its picturesque location within Richmond Park provide a breathtaking backdrop, but the staff’s warm and professional demeanor put us at ease. Our September wedding at Pembroke Lodge exceeded our expectations in every way. The versatile layout allowed for seamless transitions between dinner, dancing, and socializing. The Russell Suite proved to be more than spacious enough to accommodate our intimate gathering of fifty guests. And then there was the delightful surprise waiting just outside – a serene and romantic patio that stole the show.
Your Outfits & Accessories
I’m thrilled to share that my wedding dress was designed by the incredibly talented Ensi of Seni Dey. The stunning two-piece ensemble consisted of an ivory satin top and blouse, paired with a tea-length skirt made from tulle and satin. Ensi’s exceptional skill is evident in every detail, and I knew I had found the perfect gown – one that exudes timeless elegance.I was grateful to have my dress accessorized by Sian of Blossom & Bluebird, who crafted a beautiful two-tier English veil/tulle for the registry and blessing services. As the day progressed, I switched to a show-stopping birdcage hat/French veiling created by Agnes Hart – a perfect match for my ivory satin top and tulle skirt.As the evening cooled down, I donned a cozy cashmere/mohair jumper in ivory, courtesy of Chloe. Not only was it warm and comfortable but also looked stunning on me.My bridal shoes from H&M were surprisingly comfortable throughout the day, while my husband’s thoughtful gift – a custom-made Akoya Pearl earrings and bracelet set by Peter and Julia of Julia’s Pearls – will forever be treasured. These exquisite pieces added a touch of sophistication to my overall look.Meanwhile, Steve looked dashing in his classic navy blue three-piece suit from Massimo Dutti, paired with a simple white shirt and a burgundy tie for the morning portion of our special day. He later changed into a stylish Marks & Spencer bow tie that complemented him perfectly.
Beauty
My sister, a professional makeup artist, graciously offered her services to our family gathering, greatly alleviating any last-minute stress. Having a skilled insider like her on hand was invaluable, as she effortlessly transformed each of the six ladies into stunning beauties. Her exceptional talent and dedication earned her a well-deserved round of applause from all of us. A huge thank you goes out to Alexandra for her generosity and expertise! On another note, my bridal hair stylist, Justina of Beautiful Brides, was a delight to work with. Her punctuality, friendly demeanor, and impressive skills made the experience truly enjoyable. What’s more, she proved to be an affordable option compared to other professionals I had approached. Thanks are in order for Justina’s exceptional services!
Groomsmen & Bridesmaids
While I opted out of having a traditional wedding party, Steve decided to include his closest friend as his best man. This added a personal touch to our ceremony, which was held in conjunction with a civil service that required two witnesses. Happily, one of my dearest friends and Steve’s best man served as both his right-hand man and my witness.
Your Photographer
We hired Mark O’Brien as our wedding photographer, thanks to a connection through his wife. His website showcased his unique style and exceptional photography skills, leaving us thoroughly impressed. What struck us was Mark’s genuine passion for his work and his enthusiasm in understanding our requirements. He offered a competitive price point that aligned with our budget. On the big day, Mark arrived promptly, exuding professionalism and warmth. As he worked his magic, he effortlessly managed our guests’ interactions, ensuring everyone was in position at the right time. Our wedding photos are nothing short of breathtaking – they beautifully capture the essence of the day, telling a captivating love story that will continue to bring us joy for years to come. Mark’s timeless and character-rich photography is truly a treasured keepsake. We’re forever grateful to him.
Your Filmmaker
While we didn’t opt for a professional filmmaker, we did make the smart decision to invest in exceptional photography for our special day. My brother-in-law generously lent his skills to capture all the unforgettable moments of our wedding on video. We’re truly grateful for his efforts and can’t help but smile every time we relive those cherished moments through his beautifully shot footage.
The Flowers
Prepare yourself for a potential financial blow. The cost of wedding flowers can be staggering, potentially rivaling that of your wedding dress. Ours were expertly handled by Gabi and Lucy at The Fine Wedding Flowers Company. From initial consultations to regular updates throughout the preparation process, Gabi ensured our requests were meticulously met. As someone who’s particular about aesthetics, I fretted over the flowers’ appearance. Specifically, I wanted my bridal bouquet to radiate happiness and vibrancy on the big day. Happily, the final result exceeded my expectations – a stunning, fresh, and colorful display that added immense charm to the spaces. Gabi’s professionalism was evident in every aspect of her work, earning our heartfelt gratitude.
The Cake
Jen from Jen’s Cakery is the mastermind behind our showstopping semi-naked three-tier lemon cake. The perfect blend of citrusy sweetness and lush greenery exceeded our expectations. What’s more, her dedication to customer satisfaction was unparalleled. Even when my health wasn’t cooperating, Jen went above and beyond by sending me samples of her delicious creations, allowing me to savor every bite despite the distance. Her kindness and willingness to accommodate will always be remembered, and I’m forever grateful for her exceptional service.
The Details & Décor
When it came to planning the finer details of our special day, I turned to the vast marketplace that is Etsy. It’s where I discovered unique treasures like personalized wedding favors, intricately crafted ribbon wands, vintage-inspired English bunting, playful Photo Booth props, and even adorable bride-groom figurines. The absence of confetti at our ceremony led me to opt for the charming ribbon wands, designed by Rose of Luna Harkin, which featured colorful satin ribbons, slender wooden sticks, and a cheerful jingle that added to the celebration’s whimsy. As a thoughtful touch, my parents gifted each guest with a small jar of fresh honey, while Anabel and Felix of My Fair Guestbook crafted custom bottle stoppers in Spain, serving as a lovely memento for our loved ones.
The Honeymoon
The uncertainty surrounding our decision is palpable. While nothing has been finalized, it’s a safe bet that one – or possibly multiple – Scandinavian nations are top contenders. The anticipation is building, and I’m left wondering if my husband will happen upon this post before we’ve made a definitive choice.
Memorable Moments
Our wedding was truly unforgettable. The relaxed atmosphere allowed for genuine connections among our loved ones, and we’re grateful to have had the opportunity to cherish every moment. Steve’s vow to stick to ‘one cookie per day’ policy in our marriage still has us chuckling, while our registrar’s playful remark about him being the first (and possibly last) to say his vows left everyone in stitches. The personal vows we exchanged during the blessing were incredibly emotional, leaving both of us and many of our guests tearfully moved. Each of the four heartfelt speeches delivered by our dear friends added its own unique touch, ranging from laughter to tears and curiosity. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we witnessed a breathtaking sunset that will forever be etched in our memories – and even on our faces in our wedding photos! The enchanting ambiance was further enhanced by the Trio of Strings performing outside in the garden, while the staff at Pembroke Lodge efficiently served hot beverages and canapés to our delighted guests. We were also thoroughly impressed with the exceptional service provided by our banqueting manager, Byron, who tirelessly ensured every detail fell into place. His heroics, from fetching a white umbrella for me to get out of the bridal car to expertly coordinating the day’s events, earned him the title of ‘Star of the Day’ in our eyes. Here’s to finding that special someone – or several someones! – who will make your wedding celebration truly unforgettable!
Advice For Other Couples
Wedding planning can be overwhelming, but with a clear approach, you’ll be just fine! First, prioritize setting a date and venue – this will help guide all subsequent decisions. Don’t stress about your wedding dress; it’s okay to opt for something more budget-friendly if that’s what works best for you. Remember to share the planning load fairly among your partner, friends, and family to avoid burnout. Be prepared to negotiate on various aspects of your big day, but stay committed to your budget. It’s crucial to have a clear vision of how you want your wedding to unfold, so don’t let others dictate what you should or shouldn’t have. Take time to plan thoughtfully and make the most of every moment. Above all, prioritize self-care in the days leading up to your wedding – a good night’s sleep can work wonders for your mental clarity! On the eve of your special day, take a deep breath, pray for peace and confidence, and know that it’ll be an unforgettable experience.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
As couples prepare to tie the knot, they often find themselves surrounded by a treasure trove of creatives who help bring their special day to life. From photographers like Mark O’Brien, who capture every precious moment, to stationers like Papier, who craft beautiful invitations and paper goods, each professional plays a vital role in shaping the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the celebration. Of course, no wedding would be complete without the romantic flair of Luna Harkin’s exquisite veil/hat creations or Agnes Hart’s stunning jewellery pieces, often worn as a symbol of love and commitment. Meanwhile, Seni Dey’s stunning dresses and Massimo Dutti’s dashing grooms’ suits ensure that both the bride and groom look absolutely radiant on their big day. As for hair styling, Beautiful Brides is the go-to destination for brides seeking to achieve the perfect coiffed look, complete with a beautiful veil by Blossom and Bluebird. Flowers also play a significant role in wedding decor, thanks to talented florists like The Fine Flowers Company, who bring bouquets and arrangements to life. Music is another crucial aspect of any wedding, with Liquid Strings providing top-notch entertainment as part of the Wedding Directory’s member services. And let’s not forget about cake – Jen’s Cakery creates delectable treats that are almost too beautiful to eat! Favors like those from My Fair Guestbook also make for lovely mementos and reminders of the special day. As Diana and Steve can attest, it takes a village to throw an unforgettable wedding celebration, and we’re honored to have been a part of their romantic story.