This morning, we’re thrilled to share a breathtaking Sperry tent wedding that will leave you spellbound. Helen and Ed tied the knot on August 24th, 2019, at the picturesque Dorfold Hall in Cheshire, surrounded by sunshine, love, and an abundance of gorgeous flowers. The top table’s floral arrangement was particularly stunning!
Helen looked absolutely radiant in her chosen Charlie Brear gown, paired with a delicate veil and Jimmy Choos. Ed, meanwhile, opted for a bespoke suit that perfectly complemented his lovely bride, complete with a floral tie and pocket square.
As the sun set, the Sperry tent took on an enchanting glow thanks to the fairy lights, while the gorgeous floral and copper cake looked almost too good to eat (almost!). We’re also grateful to Hayley Baxter Photography for sharing these incredible images with us. Be sure to check out the accompanying film by Your Story Films below – it’s truly wonderful!
The Proposal
As part of our joint 30th birthday celebration, Ed and I embarked on a trip to Ivalo, where we had the unique opportunity to stay in luxurious glass igloos. Our adventure began after spending New Year’s Eve in Helsinki, as we flew over to Ivalo for a few days of exploration. On our first day, we indulged in thrilling activities such as tobogganing and a snowmobile safari under the night sky, with the Northern Lights serving as our guides. As we returned to our igloo, Ed pulled off an unforgettable surprise – getting down on one knee to propose to me with a breathtaking yellow diamond engagement ring from my beloved jeweller, Phillip Jennings. Needless to say, I said yes!
The Vision
From the onset of planning our special day, we envisioned a wedding that exuded vibrancy and warmth. A celebration that would leave a lasting impression on our loved ones. We drew inspiration from other weddings we’d attended, pinpointing what made them truly unforgettable – the fusion of delicious food and infectious music. Our goal was to craft an atmosphere where every guest felt at ease, allowing memories to flourish.
The Planning Process
While planning for the event progressed at a decent pace, I found myself taking the reins on most of the organizational tasks, with Ed providing input and approval as needed. His enthusiasm was palpable, especially when it came to the food tastings! What’s more, my parents played a crucial role in helping me refine our ideas and anticipate how friends and family would react. Having a diverse group of people who know you well can be incredibly valuable in terms of bouncing off ideas and gaining insight into how others might respond.
The Venue
As a large family, having all of our loved ones celebrate with us on our special day was crucial in choosing the perfect wedding venue. Just two weeks after becoming engaged, we had already fallen in love with Dorfold Hall – its stunning architecture and rich history made it an ideal setting for our big day. The picturesque grounds surrounding the hall provided a breathtaking backdrop for our elegant tented reception. Our catering choice, Catherine Skates Catering, did not disappoint, delivering exceptional cuisine that still earns rave reviews from our wedding guests. Meanwhile, Escapade Bar kept our glasses full and our spirits high, even whipping up our favorite cocktails as welcome drinks for our friends and family.
The Cake
The pièce de résistance of our special day was undoubtedly the exquisite cake crafted by Cheshire Wedding Cakes. This masterpiece boasted an impressive array of flavors, including the tangy zest of lemon, the indulgent sweetness of sticky toffee, and the subtle tartness of raspberry and white chocolate. The top tier’s metallic copper hue added a touch of sophistication, while the bottom tier’s hand-painted flowers perfectly complemented our wedding invitations’ design. As if all that weren’t enough, the cake was a true showstopper in terms of taste – we couldn’t get enough of it, and by the next day, every last crumb had been devoured.
The Flowers
With vibrant hues and organic silhouettes, the breathtaking floral arrangement was crafted by Robie and Gus at Robie Flowers. My sole instruction to them was to create a kaleidoscope of colours with loose, natural forms. The result was a symphony of shades that served as a captivating centerpiece for our special day.
Beauty
As I prepared for my special day, I opted to do my own hair and makeup – a decision that stemmed from my desire to maintain a natural look. When others take on these tasks, I often feel like they’re trying to transform me into someone else. But on this particular morning, everything felt so relaxed and effortless. I spent the hour leading up to the ceremony enjoying quality time with my bridesmaids and family in the beautiful gardens of Dorfold, sipping champagne and savouring every moment.
Your Outfits & Accessories
I slipped into my stunning two-piece dress, courtesy of Charlie Brear, feeling like a million bucks. The Carenne dress in ivory was paired with the Canya skirt from The White Closet in Didsbury, which I had originally considered passing on for another design. However, fate intervened when the Canya skirt made a special visit to the shop that weekend, and I knew it was meant to be mine. The intricate detailing on the skirt stole my heart, and my loved ones – including my mum and auntie – were equally smitten with the overall look. To complete my bridal ensemble, I chose Helen Martin’s exquisite Poppy Veil adorned with tiny flowers featuring pearl centers. Emily 100 heels from Jimmy Choo served as my trusty footwear companion throughout the day. Adding a touch of glamour to my updo was the Coco tiara from Halo&Co, boasting a dazzling array of Swarovski crystal pearls, opals, and delicate blooms. Meanwhile, Dinny Hall’s Gem Drop Petal pendant necklace added a romantic touch with its blue topaz and tanzanite pendants serving as my something blue. The groom, on the other hand, opted for a bespoke suit from Papa’s tailoring, working closely with Jo to perfect every detail – even incorporating our wedding date onto the inside of his jacket. His tie and pocket square were sourced from Hunter and Wells, renowned for their exquisite creations featuring Liberty London fabrics.
The Readings & Music
For our special day, we carefully selected two readings that resonated deeply with us. Shakespeare’s Sonnet 116 and a passage from Philip Pullman’s The Amber Spyglass were beautifully woven together to create a poignant and romantic atmosphere. To set the tone for the celebrations, we enlisted the talents of the Didsbury String Quartet, who delighted our guests with a medley of Disney classics and modern hits. As I made my grand entrance, they played Elvis Presley’s timeless ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’, while as we departed, The Monkees’ catchy ‘I’m a Believer’ got everyone on their feet. Later that evening, the talented Different Lights band took over, keeping the party energized and the dance floor packed late into the night.
The Details & Décor
As we prepared for our special day, Vintage Venue Dressers worked their magic to transform the venue into a stunning setting. The copper accents on both the table decorations and wedding signs added a touch of elegance. To keep our guests entertained in the evening, we hired the talented Andrew Green, a magician who left everyone mesmerized with his mind-blowing tricks – I’m still trying to figure out how he did it! Meanwhile, Tom from Exclusive Scoop kept everyone cool with his refreshing homemade ice cream, which proved to be a huge hit on that sweltering hot day.
Your Photographer
The quest for the perfect photographer was a daunting task, as it proved challenging to find someone whose style aligned with our vision. Our luck changed when we stumbled upon Hayley Baxter Photography, whose laid-back approach and breathtaking landscape photography perfectly captured what we were looking for. Throughout the process, Hayley’s presence was unwavering, producing an array of incredible images that left us torn between favorites.
Your Filmmaker
Hiring Your Story Films to capture our special day was undoubtedly one of the most brilliant choices we made for our wedding. This talented filmmaker went above and beyond, meticulously capturing every pivotal moment from start to finish, giving us the unique opportunity to relive memories that might have otherwise slipped by unnoticed in a beautifully crafted video that skillfully tells the story of our big day.
Bridesmaids
For the wedding party, a harmonious blend of style and elegance was achieved through the selection of attire. The bridesmaids donned striking Ghost Ivy dresses in a rich navy hue, providing a sophisticated backdrop for the festivities. Meanwhile, the flower girl’s whimsical charm was amplified by her Tutu Du Monde Dazzling Heart Tutu Dress, adding a playful touch to the proceedings.
Groomsmen
Ed’s wedding party attire was characterized by a harmonious blend of cohesion and individuality, with his groomsmen donning navy check skinny fit suits from Ben Sherman. These carefully selected suits not only complemented Ed’s own outfit but also allowed him to take center stage on his special day.
The Honeymoon
As we look back on our whirlwind wedding planning experience, it’s hard to believe that our honeymoon is already just around the corner. We’re thrilled to be heading off to Bulgaria in February for a week of skiing adventures in Bankso, followed by some much-needed relaxation time in the picturesque Lake District. The combination of adrenaline-pumping ski slopes and serene hiking trails will provide the perfect antidote to the chaos of our wedding planning days. We can’t wait to unwind and enjoy each other’s company, taking in the breathtaking scenery and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Memorable Moments
As I look back on my wedding day, a moment that stands out to me is the instant when my flower girl accidentally stepped on my veil, causing it to come undone. Instead of panicking or getting flustered, my dad swiftly came to the rescue, holding it up behind me as we both laughed and continued our way down the aisle. It was a lighthearted moment that set the tone for the rest of the celebration. Another highlight for me was seeing Ed’s face light up when he first saw me in my dress – it was a truly special moment shared with our loved ones.
Advice For Other Couples
While it’s often suggested that taking time for each other throughout the day is essential, it’s equally important to capture moments as they unfold. Having a videographer present can be incredibly valuable, as it allows you to relive and recall cherished memories in vivid detail long after the event has passed. Moreover, consider having some of the refreshments, such as canapés, readily available at all times during the photo shoot – you wouldn’t want to miss out on those delectable treats or any other special moments that may arise.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
Hayley Baxter Photography was the perfect choice to capture the special moments of Helen and Ed’s big day. The picturesque Dorfold Hall served as the stunning backdrop for their celebration, which was elevated by Catherine Skates Catering’s exquisite culinary offerings. Meanwhile, Escapade Bars kept the drinks flowing and the good vibes going. Your Story Films expertly preserved every laugh, tear, and memorable moment on camera. For her big-day look, Helen chose a beautiful dress from Charlie Brear at The White Closet Didsbury, which paired perfectly with Helen Martin Veils’ elegant veil and Jimmy Choo’s sleek shoes. To complete the picture, Halo&Co crafted a breathtaking headpiece and Phillip Jennings designed a stunning engagement ring and wedding band for Helen to wear. Ed looked dashing in his Papa’s Tailoring bespoke suit, accessorized by Hunter and Wells’ thoughtful touches. Robie Flowers added an extra touch of romance with their gorgeous blooms, while the Didsbury String Quartet provided enchanting background music. The Different Lights brought the party to life with their lively tunes, and Exclusive Scoop treated guests to a sweet treat. Modern Mysteries mesmerized with their spellbinding illusions, and Cheshire Wedding Cakes crafted a show-stopping dessert that left everyone in awe. Vintage Venue Dressing added the finishing touches to Dorfold Hall’s already impressive atmosphere, making it truly unforgettable for Helen and Ed.