Two Part Wedding
I’m thrilled to share the joyous and memorable story of Claire and Nick, affectionately known as Click, as they celebrated their unique two-part wedding in a COVID-safe ceremony. The couple cleverly combined an outdoor ceremony at Nick’s parents’ backyard with a virtual celebration via Zoom, ensuring their loved ones could still be a part of the special day despite social distancing measures. This innovative approach not only preserved the intimacy but also made it possible to gather meaningfully with family and friends from afar.Claire looked stunning in her flowing gown, while Nick donned a dashing blue wool suit. The bride’s mother beautifully arranged the flowers, and the groom’s mother baked an exquisite cake – a lovely touch that added to the day’s charm. The couple also had picturesque portraits taken amidst the lovely gardens.Erica Hawkins Photography did an outstanding job capturing this special wedding, which I’m confident will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.
The Proposal
As we wrapped up our Isle of Wight adventure, a few days turned into an unforgettable experience. We began with a thrilling parkrun, followed by a leisurely brunch on the balcony of our AirBnB overlooking Ventnor’s beach. The morning wasn’t over yet – we paid a visit to the impressive Fort Victoria Model Railway, which Claire has a special fondness for. Later that afternoon, we basked in the sun on the beach, indulging in ice cream, another shared delight. As the day drew to a close, we stopped by St Catherine’s Oratory, a scenic spot with breathtaking views of the island and the sea. It was here that Nick started acting peculiarly, taking more photos than usual, much to Claire’s curiosity. Unbeknownst to her, he had the ring in hand, poised for the perfect moment. As the sun began to set, Nick asked Claire to turn around, got down on one knee, and proposed with a sweet sentiment, paraphrasing Notting Hill: ‘I’m just a boy, kneeling in front of a girl, asking her to marry him.’ The answer was an enthusiastic yes! We celebrated with a lovely dinner at a Ventnor restaurant. It was a surprise that caught Claire off guard, especially given Nick’s earlier hints about proposing by the end of the year. His ability to keep it under wraps until the perfect moment made it all the more special. What added to the excitement was learning that Nick had secretly visited Claire’s parents the day before our trip to get their blessing – a lovely touch.
The Vision
We had always envisioned a joyous celebration with our loved ones, complete with a traditional Christian wedding, delicious food, and an lively ceilidh in the evening. However, the COVID-19 pandemic had other plans. As much as we wanted to bring everyone together for this special occasion, we were forced to postpone it until 2021 when restrictions would hopefully be lifted and we could celebrate in person. Instead, we had to adapt our vision to fit the circumstances. Despite initial hopes that weddings might resume by June, the government’s guidance remained unchanged, prohibiting legal ceremonies. We decided to set a deadline for ourselves: a Christian ceremony on our two-year anniversary, whichever came first. As Christians, it was crucial for us to get married in front of God, and we were open to doing so anywhere.Given that we weren’t yet living together, all we wanted was the opportunity to exchange vows and start our life together. We also longed for our family and friends to be able to witness this special moment, which led us to consider Zoom as an option. Having become familiar with the platform during our church meetings every Sunday since lockdown began, it felt like a natural choice.Another crucial factor in our decision-making process was ensuring that both our parents could attend. This ultimately influenced our selection of venue.
The Planning Process
It was just over a week ago that Nick and I decided to tie the knot, with our wedding taking place just three days later. As you can imagine, it was a bit of a whirlwind affair! We gave our guests just 48 hours’ notice before sending out the Zoom login details on Wednesday morning. The following day, we picked up my dress, while Nick sorted out the logistics at our ceremony venue. By Thursday evening, everything was in place: gazebos were set up, laptops were connected to WiFi, and speakers were ready to go. Even my dressing room – a humble shed, really – had been given a quick makeover.Of course, we couldn’t have done it without some key help from our best man and his wife. They did an amazing job of keeping the Zoom meeting running smoothly, muting and unmuting participants as needed. Our church leader officiated the ceremony, which took place over Zoom, and we even managed to get everyone singing along with some worship songs. We also had a special reading from Nick’s brother and sister-in-law, as well as prayers from some of our closest friends. And let me tell you, it felt so much better than we could have ever imagined. Being able to interact with our guests at the end was the perfect way to cap off an already-special day.
The Venue
Nick’s parents’ backyard proved to be the ideal setting for a memorable celebration. As they were shielding, it was a thoughtful way for them to join in on the festivities. The garden itself is a stunning oasis, featuring an array of vibrant plants and flowers – particularly the alliums that added a touch of elegance to the scenery. A pergola stood out as a beautiful focal point, serving as a picturesque backdrop for photos and providing ample space for decorations. In fact, Nick’s parents might have started a small wedding business in their garden, given its intimate charm.
The newly installed garden shed made for an unconventional yet charming dressing room for Claire, while the conservatory windows served as a perfect mirror for Nick to finalize his tie and hair. The winding garden path and patio became a lovely promenade for Claire to make her way down to the aisle, with her father offering gentle guidance and protection from the elements beneath a sweet bridal parasol.
The garden’s size allowed for effortless social distancing, blending seamlessly with its natural beauty. As such, it was the perfect unconventional venue for our unique little wedding, filled with joy, love, and cherished memories.
Your Outfits & Accessories
Claire’s dress was a masterclass in understated elegance, its floaty design from Wed2B complemented by intricate lacework on the body and a low back. The high neckline added a touch of modesty, while white trainers from TOMS provided a comfortable contrast to the dress’s flowing lines. To keep out the chill, Claire donned her trusty denim jacket, prioritizing comfort above all else. She was thrilled to be re-wearing the outfit, having originally chosen it for its versatility and ease of movement. Meanwhile, Nick cut a dashing figure in his 3-piece Donegal suit from Next, the dusky/navy blue lambswool blend perfectly capturing his understated style. To add a personal touch, he opted for personalized tie clip and cufflinks featuring vintage maps of special places in their relationship – the Isle of Wight, where they got engaged; Hitchin, where they tied the knot; and Cornwall, where they honeymooned. The Liberty print tie and pocket square, sourced from Etsy, were chosen for their classic floral pattern, which harmonized beautifully with the overall aesthetic.
Beauty & Grooming
The DIY enthusiasts in our group truly showcased their resourcefulness. Not only did they opt for a no-frills approach when it came to beauty, but Nick even took matters into his own hands by cutting his own hair! Meanwhile, Claire opted out of the makeup chaos and instead made a quick trip to the supermarket the night before to pick up just the essentials – a few mascara wands and some eyebrow products.
The Readings & Music
For us, sung worship was an integral part of our faith and wedding celebration. Given our shared love of singing, we wanted to incorporate it into the ceremony. Fortunately, Claire’s father is a talented guitarist who led us in some special songs, making it a truly memorable experience. To further encourage participation from our guests, we sent out an order of service with lyrics for them to follow along from home. Our parents’ harmonious voices added to the beauty of the moment as well. We sang Be Thou My Vision, Faithful One, and How Great Thou Art, which resonated deeply with us. As we exchanged vows, Claire walked down the aisle with her father to She by Elvis Costello, a nod to our favorite movie Notting Hill. Meanwhile, Nick and Claire ‘exited’ to A Thousand Hallelujahs by The Shires, our go-to band. To maintain the integrity of the ceremony, we incorporated a bible reading from 1 John 4:7-19, beautifully delivered by Nick’s brother and sister-in-law. Even their young niece managed to interrupt with a request for a crisp, adding a lighthearted touch to an otherwise emotional moment.
Groomsmen
Despite the logistical challenges posed by the wedding, both grooms’ dads managed to adapt to the situation. Rather than being physically present, they each donned brand new suits that perfectly complemented the event’s theme. The icing on the cake was their matching ties and pocket squares, a thoughtful touch that further emphasized their connection to the celebration.
Bridesmaids
As fate would have it, the pair was unfortunately absent from the garden wedding, but their presence will be felt in the years to come. In a surprising yet harmonious twist, both mothers opted for dresses they already owned, rather than their original choices. Miraculously, their unspoken coordination resulted in a visually stunning pairing that beautifully complemented each other.
The Flowers
The mother of the bride deserves a special mention for her incredible efforts! Initially, she planned to create only the wedding bouquet, but due to the unique circumstances, she also took on the task of making the buttonholes, which turned out beautifully. Her dedication really contributed to the overall atmosphere and made our special day feel more like an intimate celebration. The already-prepared potted flowers and lush garden arrangements, courtesy of Nick’s parents, added a pop of colour along the aisle and pergola, creating a picturesque setting that felt cozy and inviting.
The Cake
The mother of the groom truly outdid herself, pulling together an incredible 4-tiered lemon and raspberry cake with mere days’ notice – no small feat, especially given her shielding circumstances. This flavour combination is one of our absolute favourites, and we had been hoping to feature it on our original cake design. To complete the look, we sourced some adorable personalized cake toppers from Etsy that really tied everything together. And, we won’t pretend otherwise, but we did manage to devour the entire cake in a remarkably short span – a testament to its undeniable deliciousness!
Your Photographer
Erica is a force to be reckoned with – warm, talented, and kind. Her photography skills are matched only by her exceptional people skills. We were blown away by how effortlessly she brought joy and energy to our wedding celebration. Despite having less than a week’s notice to prepare for our socially distanced garden wedding, Erica agreed to join us, capturing the magic of the day with her camera. Her encouragement and support meant the world to us, and we’re grateful for the stunning photos she took – a true treasure that we’ll cherish for years to come.
The Details & Décor
With the unpredictable British weather in mind, we borrowed gazebos to line and cover the aisle, greatly appreciating their presence. Nick’s parents generously lent us beautiful flower pots from their own stunning garden, a treasure trove of greenery courtesy of his father’s remarkable horticultural skills. Inside the gazebos, vibrant bunting added a pop of colour, while fairy lights and a thoughtful mirror in the shed helped create a serene atmosphere for getting ready – Nick’s attention to detail was truly impressive. Given the garden’s natural beauty, our setup was intentionally understated yet still uniquely charming.
The Honeymoon
The highly anticipated getaway is finally within reach. Due to unforeseen circumstances, our initial plans were put on hold, but we’re now counting down the days until we escape to a cozy self-catered homestay in Cornwall. The prospect of exploring this picturesque region in early Autumn is almost too exciting to bear, and we can’t wait to share the experience with you.
Memorable Moments
As our special day unfolded, a series of endearing mishaps took place. Nick’s innocent attempt at enjoying tomato soup resulted in a splattered sleeve on his white shirt. Meanwhile, Claire’s dad navigated the gazebo, only to have the umbrella catch on it as he walked up the aisle, adding a touch of humor to the proceedings. To make things even more unconventional, we said our vows over Zoom, making for a truly memorable experience. The reading was interrupted by Nick’s niece asking for a crisp, while attempts to greet all the guests and spot familiar faces on Zoom only added to the laughter. Nick’s uncle and aunt stood out in their bold boat hats, and the best man delivered a heartfelt mini speech that left us beaming. As the celebration reached its peak, Nick’s dad took it upon himself to fire party poppers upside down, leaving everyone in stitches. Just when we thought things couldn’t get any more eventful, a massive storm rolled in, bringing thunder, lightning, and hail into the mix. The chaos only intensified as our friend’s gazebo collapsed under the weight of all that hail, right as we were about to slice into the wedding cake. In hindsight, it’s clear that every aspect of our day came together in perfect harmony, and we wouldn’t change a single moment. Hearing from family and friends how much they enjoyed the experience and felt touched by the love and joy on display has only reinforced our decision to make this unconventional yet unforgettable wedding our own.
Advice For Other Couples
As you embark on this new chapter as husband and wife, it’s essential to remember that the true essence of your special day lies in the union between you two. While circumstances may not have allowed for a traditional celebration, the thought and love behind it remain unchanged. In fact, making the most of an unconventional situation can often lead to a more unique and memorable experience.
A huge thank you must go to Erica Hawkins Photography for capturing this momentous occasion so beautifully. Additionally, we’re grateful to Wed2B, Etsy, Next, Zoom, Frosts Garden Centre, and others who contributed to the wedding’s charm.
To Claire and Nick, I extend my sincerest gratitude for sharing part one of your two-part wedding day with us. I truly hope you get to relish this momentous occasion in all its glory next year, surrounded by loved ones. Remember, safety guidelines were carefully adhered to during the ceremony.
Best regards, Lou