image source
image source
image source
image source
I’m thrilled to introduce you to Jake and Jess, the lovely couple who are taking us on a journey through their unforgettable wedding day. On August 10th, 2019, they exchanged vows at The Priory in Little Wymondley, Hertfordshire, a picturesque barn venue that effortlessly combines rustic charm with majestic grandeur. As someone familiar with this beautiful setting, I can attest to its allure, which Jake and Jess were eager to incorporate into their celebration. They achieved the perfect blend of traditional and modern elements, as evident in the rustic barn backdrop and the sleek, on-trend decorations. The stunning floral arrangements, enchanting lighting, and show-stopping floral cake all contribute to an atmosphere that’s nothing short of magical. Jake and Jess are radiant in their attire – Jess wore a breathtaking Enzoani Mckinley gown with a delicate lace veil, while Jake looked dashing in his Peter Posh suit with a matching waistcoat. I’m honored to share these captivating images by Milkbottle Photography with you, which truly capture the joy and happiness of this special day.
The Proposal
I’ll never forget the surprise trip my partner and I took to Vegas for my birthday in 2017. What Jess didn’t know was that I had secretly booked a helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon for a sunset lunch and champagne celebration on the day after my special day. The plan was to keep it under wraps until we landed, when we would take some photos together before I asked another tourist to capture the moment when I proposed to Jess. It all went down on November 30th, 2017, and it’s a memory that will always be etched in my mind.
The Vision
The Planning Process
As soon as Jake proposed, I leapt into action, ordering a wedding planning book online. By the time we returned from our celebration, the book had arrived, and that night, we sat down to re-examine potential venues for our special day. We were drawn to the idea of a rustic barn wedding, with the reception held on the same property. Our chosen venue was actually the second one we’d visited, but it wasn’t until we stepped inside the barn that I felt an undeniable sense of certainty – this was where we would be exchanging our vows. The atmosphere is truly enchanting, steeped in history and storytelling. With my pregnancy beginning in early 2018, I had a significant amount of time to plan the wedding without undue stress. In fact, I made it a point to get everything organized before our little one arrived, knowing that once I gave birth, my availability would be limited.
The Venue
Located in the picturesque village of Little Wymondley, just outside of Hitchin, The Priory at 25 Priory Lane is a tranquil retreat that exudes charm and character. This esteemed address has been carefully crafted to provide an atmosphere of serenity, perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Your Outfits & Accessories
As I envisioned my dream wedding dress, one thing was clear: I wanted a fitted design with an open back and a show-stopping train. Enzoani’s creations had already caught my attention, and The McKinley dress in particular left me breathless. It was love at first sight! After researching stockists, I discovered Le Sposi Bridalwear carried the dress and made an appointment to try it on. When Jez, one of the owners, suggested trying the 2018 version, which boasted the same design but with enhanced features, I couldn’t resist. The upgraded dress exceeded my expectations – its train was a breathtaking masterpiece that made me feel like royalty. The fit was flattering, and I knew I’d found ‘the one.’As for my groom’s attire, I initially discovered Peter Posh’s Royal Mohair Lounge Suit with Waistcoat in Melton Camel on Pinterest. Although I couldn’t find the exact suit online, Jess reminded me about a wedding fair at Luton Hoo’s Conservatory, where I hoped to find the perfect match. The fateful event led us to a stall advertising the very same suit, which we’d also shortlisted for my groomsmen. After taking a brochure and making an appointment, we got to experience the suits firsthand.
Beauty
When it comes to capturing that perfect shot, the right hair and makeup can make all the difference. At Lightbox Studio in Great Dunmow, CM6 1AT, a team of experts are on hand to ensure you look your absolute best. Meanwhile, for those looking for a more relaxed grooming experience, Colucci’s Barber Shop in Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK2 2BH is the place to go. With its location at 59a Aylesbury St, this popular spot offers a range of services to help you feel confident and put-together.
The Readings & Music
We had a harpist set the tone for our special day, and their enchanting melodies harmonized with the memories we were creating. As our guests arrived, they were treated to an eclectic mix of tunes that kept them entertained until the very end. Christina Perri’s ‘Thousand Years’ got the party started, followed by The Temptations’ soulful classic ‘My Girl’. When it was time for the bride to make her entrance, Pachelbel’s timeless beauty in ‘Canon in D’ filled the air. As we signed our marriage certificate, Elvis crooned ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love with You’, bringing a touch of nostalgia to our intimate moment. Later that night, Jason Mraz serenaded us with his romantic hit ‘I’m Yours’, while John Legend’s soul-stirring ‘All of Me’ had us swaying to the rhythm. As we bid farewell to our loved ones, The Beatles’ iconic ‘All You Need is Love’ served as the perfect exit music, leaving us feeling grateful and in love.
Bridesmaids
I had a clear vision of sky blue off-the-shoulder dresses, which inspired me to start searching online. One site that caught my attention was LalaMira, where I found what would become THE dress. Given its online presence, I decided to place an order to gauge the material quality and overall fit for the girls. The experience exceeded my expectations – the quality of the dress was exceptional, and everyone loved the color (we received numerous compliments on the dresses and their striking hue).
Groomsmen
In terms of attire, the groomsmen opted for a cohesive look by wearing identical suits, with the only distinguishing features being the unique waistcoats and buttonholes that added a touch of personality to their overall ensemble.
Your Photographer
When it comes to Ben and Tim, where do I even begin? From the moment we started planning until the very end of our special day, they were absolute professionals. We stumbled upon them online and fell in love with their unique approach and website. It was refreshing to see something different from the typical wedding photographers. On the day of the wedding, they worked their magic without being intrusive or obtrusive. Instead, they seamlessly blended into the atmosphere, capturing stunning moments that we’ll treasure forever. In fact, it was during the golden hour when they took us aside for some additional photos, which have become some of our most cherished memories.
Your Filmmaker
Now Forever Films, comprised of videographers Sue and Terry, were an excellent choice for capturing our special moments. We had the pleasure of meeting them at Luton Hoo wedding fair, where their warm and welcoming demeanor immediately put us at ease. It was clear that they are deeply passionate about their work, which shines through in the final product. They seamlessly integrated into our day, radiating positivity and enthusiasm. As a result, we’re eagerly anticipating the release of our video and the opportunity to relive our wedding day through their lens.
The Flowers
As I walked into the wedding venue, I was thrilled to see our florist, Faye, showcasing her stunning display. It was as if she had read my mind, capturing the exact vision I had been visualizing for my special day. Without hesitation, I booked her on the spot and requested that she recreate the arrangement exactly as it looked there – a true masterpiece! Her bouquet incorporated a beautiful medley of yellows, oranges, greens, and whites, with just a hint of blue to add depth and dimension. I was thrilled to see that my bridesmaid bouquets would also feature these vibrant colors, expertly woven together by Faye’s skilled hands.
The Cake
When we discovered our talented cake maker at Milton Keynes, I was already quite pregnant and had indulged in an abundance of cake at the wedding fayre. My friends’ enthusiasm for her creations was infectious, urging me to give her cakes a try. Thankfully, I did, as they were truly scrumptious and showcased her exceptional skill. The intricate details she handcrafts are simply stunning! We scheduled a consultation at her home, where we sampled numerous flavors. Our decision was to opt for a four-tier masterpiece, featuring distinct layers: white chocolate and raspberry atop, followed by chocolate fudge, cookies and cream, and concluding with lemon. To add an extra touch of elegance, she hand-piped delicate lace details onto the cake. Furthermore, she meticulously crafted all our sugar flowers by hand. Additionally, we received 12 delectable mini cupcakes, which were miniature versions of our main cake.
The Details & Décor
As we planned the wedding, we opted for a beautiful lace sash on the back of every chair, which added a lovely touch to the overall ambiance. To elevate the decor further, we partnered with Sparkling Event Hire to bring in some stunning elements, including an arch that sat majestically on stage, where we exchanged our vows and signed our marriage registration. Sarah from Sparkling Event Hire also kindly provided us with four exquisite blossom trees – two in light dusty pink and two in white.Our centrepieces featured a rustic log topped with three elegant jars filled to the brim with gorgeous flowers. Our florist went above and beyond, adding extra vases on our top table for my bouquet and my bridesmaid’s bouquets. We also set up a sweet treat station, which I took charge of, providing the jars and sweets myself as it was more budget-friendly and allowed me to add a personal touch to the wedding.To create an immersive experience, we hired the Hoofbooth photo booth – a nod to my equestrian background that proved incredibly popular with our guests. The lanterns we used also made a lasting impression, subtly changing colours throughout the day to set the perfect mood for the evening.The love lettering ‘O’ beating was another unique element we fell in love with, as it was unlike anything we’d seen before. For our first dance, we took things to the next level by incorporating dry ice – a decision that proved to be one of the best we made!
The Honeymoon
The Dominican Republic and Grand Bahia Principe Punta Cana are set to host our inaugural family getaway, which also marks a special occasion – our honeymoon. This dual-purpose vacation promises an unforgettable experience for all involved.
Memorable Moments
One of our most cherished memories from the wedding day was the surprise waiters, who got everyone’s toes tapping. It was a cleverly kept secret between us, and we’re thrilled we decided to go for it. The energy they brought to the party was palpable, transforming the atmosphere in an instant. As the night unfolded, our first dance with dry ice took center stage, creating a truly magical experience that left us both breathless. It’s difficult to pinpoint just a few highlights from such an unforgettable evening.
Advice For Other Couples
Savoring the simplicity of the moment, take a step back with your new partner and appreciate the joy radiating from your guests. Take a leisurely stroll together, allowing yourselves to reflect on the day’s events. And don’t be afraid to let loose – indulge in an impromptu dance, free from the constraints of self-consciousness. Additionally, prioritize nourishment; we almost forgot to enjoy our evening repast and that delectable cake, which sadly remained untouched 😔.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
The essence of any wedding lies in the unique blend of personalities, styles, and emotions that come together to create unforgettable memories. For Jake and Jess, their special day was filled with an array of talented professionals who brought their vision to life. From the photography expertise of Milkbottle Photography to the videography skills of Now Forever Films, every moment was captured with precision and flair.The dress shop, Le Sposi Bridal Wear, played a significant role in helping Jess find her perfect gown, while Enzoani Mckinley’s creative vision as a dress designer ensured that the overall aesthetic was nothing short of breathtaking. The stunning backdrop of Blossom Trees & Arch, courtesy of Sparkling Event Hire, added an extra layer of romance to the proceedings.The sweet treats were taken care of by Lindsay Pemberton Wedding Cakes, while Bluemark Entertainment kept the party going with their impressive DJ skills and love lettering. Lanterns from Bdjc Events added a touch of whimsy to the evening’s ambiance.Jess’s dashing groom looked suave in his suit from Peter Posh, while Lightbox Studio ensured that everyone looked their absolute best for the cameras. The singing waiters from Silver Service Singing Waiters brought an extra layer of fun and entertainment to the proceedings.For a truly unique experience, the couple opted for a photo booth courtesy of Hoofbooth, which provided endless laughter and cherished memories. Anna Quiroga’s harpist skills added a touch of elegance to the evening’s atmosphere.The wedding directory member, Wedding Entertainment, played an instrumental role in bringing all these talented professionals together to create an unforgettable celebration. The venue, The Priory – Little Wymondley, provided a picturesque backdrop for the festivities. Stationery from Kathryn Deeley Wedding Stationery and floral arrangements by Stephanie Rose added a touch of personal flair.Last but not least, Karen Jane Silver Seamstress ensured that Jess’s dress looked its absolute best throughout the day. A huge thank you to Jake and Jess for sharing their beautiful wedding story with us.