Lucy and Sam’s special day was all about peace, love, and good vibes as they celebrated their wedding in a 1970s hippie-inspired ceremony on May 27th, 2018. The couple exchanged vows at their local church before boarding a vintage green bus to make their way to Westerham Golf Club in Kent, where the party really got started. Set amidst stunning woodland surroundings, the golf club’s rustic décor provided the perfect backdrop for Lucy and Sam’s ethereal celebration. One of the standout features of the day was Lucy’s breathtakingly beautiful wedding gown, which she designed herself after struggling to find the perfect dress. The result was a truly one-of-a-kind masterpiece that perfectly captured the essence of their 1970s-inspired theme. A delicate wildflower bouquet and matching flower crown added an extra touch of whimsy to her overall look. Elsewhere, the reception featured adorable VW Beetles and folk pop album covers as decorations, while a stunning fairy light ceiling created a truly magical atmosphere. We’re thrilled to have been able to share these wonderful images with you today, courtesy of our talented friend Sarah Fleet.
The Proposal
As I strolled through the serene Kentish countryside in September 2015, an unexpected delight awaited me in the form of a tranquil meadow walk.
The Vision
We’re envisioning a one-of-a-kind celebration that embodies the free-spirited essence of the 1970s bohemian era, infused with the laid-back vibes of alternative music and the warmth of sharing it all with our loved ones.
The Planning Process
We decided on a picturesque setting for our special day, securing St Mary’s Church on the charming Westerham Village green. The church itself is breathtakingly beautiful, leaving us thrilled that it would be the backdrop for our ceremony. Meanwhile, at Westerham Golf Club, we were enchanted by the whimsical woodland path leading up to the entrance, imbuing the atmosphere with a touch of magic.
The Venue
Nestled among lush greenery, the charming village of Westerham is home to two iconic landmarks that draw visitors from far and wide. The historic St Mary the Virgin church stands proudly on the Village Green, its stunning architecture a testament to the area’s rich heritage. Just a stone’s throw away lies the picturesque Westerham Golf Club, offering a serene retreat for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Bridesmaids
The four bridesmaids, Nina, Rachel, Gen, and Sophie, each brought their unique style to the wedding party. Nina opted for a stunning lavender dress from Asos, as did Rachel and Gen, creating a cohesive yet elegant look. In contrast, 9-year-old Sophie stood out in her beautiful white and gold lace Monsoon dress, adding a touch of innocence and whimsy to the group.
Beauty
When it came to her big day, the bride decided to take matters into her own hands by doing her own hair and makeup. She had previously taken advantage of a makeup trial or lesson with expert Jane Sinclair, who helped her perfect her look.
Your Outfits & Accessories
As an unconventional dresser, I ventured into unfamiliar territory when shopping for a suit on the high street. My goal was to find something that exuded a relaxed yet stylish vibe, but still managed to stand out from the crowd. Initially, I was underwhelmed by the tweed suits I tried on, finding them too heavy and uncomfortable. However, my luck changed after stumbling upon Slaters suit shop in Kent. The shop assistants were warm and non-intimidating, allowing me to explore without pressure. I finally found a lightweight brown suit with a fitted waistcoat and subtle tartan pattern featuring paisley lining that fit me like a glove and was an excellent value for the price.In contrast, my fiancée’s experience with high street dresses was marred by poor fit. As a petite individual, she struggled to find garments that hung well on her frame, often being forced to choose between dresses that were either too long or didn’t drape as desired. Aware that alterations would likely double the cost of the original purchase, we decided to take a different approach. We commissioned a bespoke dress from Polka fashions in Aveley, Essex, and worked closely with Teresa, the talented designer, to bring our vision to life. After describing her ideal dress, Teresa brought it to fruition within exactly two months, delivering a stunning bohemian-style white lace gown that exuded elegance and demure charm. With its boat neckline, chapel train, long sleeves featuring buttons, and intricate all-over white lace details, the dress exceeded our expectations and left us both beaming with delight.
The Details & Décor
The church was transformed into a charming setting thanks to Posy and Wild florists, who cleverly used simple country flowers to create a warm and rustic atmosphere. The fresh eucalyptus and herb bunches added a lovely fragrance to the space. Meanwhile, our reception venue, Westerham Golf Club, offered breathtaking views from its main hall balcony, which was a major selling point for us. We deliberately kept the decorations simple and personalized, as we didn’t want to detract from the natural beauty of the venue. Instead, we focused on thoughtful details that were carefully planned ahead, with Pinterest serving as our main source of inspiration. To make the space truly special, we opted for an open guitar case to collect cards and gifts – a nod to our shared love of music. The table plan was a unique touch, featuring our top 8 favourite albums printed on high-quality card and mounted onto a wooden board. The evening took on a whimsical quality thanks to Bows hire, who expertly installed fairy lights that cast a magical glow on the ceiling. Lastly, we had a beautifully crafted wooden palate adorned with clip lights, filled with cherished family photos.
The Cake
The Readings & Music
As the bride made her way down the aisle, she was accompanied by the sweet serenade of her father’s acoustic guitar playing ‘Girl from the North Country’. This intimate moment was just the beginning of a beautiful celebration that would be filled with a mix of classic hymns and modern readings. The ceremony featured two timeless hymns: ‘Morning has Broken’ and ‘How Great Thou Art’, which added to the sense of tradition and reverence. In addition to these traditional choices, the couple also incorporated some unique reading selections. Robert Burns’ poem ‘A Red, Red Rose’ brought a touch of whimsy and romance to the proceedings, while a passage from the Song of Solomon added a sense of spirituality and devotion. The music continued with a selection of songs that reflected the couple’s personal tastes, including Nick Drake’s melancholic ‘Time has Told Me’, Sandy Denny’s folk-infused ‘Wild Mountain Thyme’, and The Lemonheads’ catchy ‘Into Your Arms’.
Your Photographer
Groomsmen
The best men and groomsmen’s attire for the wedding was a well-coordinated effort. Geoff, the best man, opted for his own suit, while Ben chose a stylish option from Next. Richard, another groomsman, decided to wear his own suit, which complemented the overall aesthetic perfectly. John, the father of the bride, also went with a suit that was uniquely his own, adding a touch of personal flair to the group’s appearance. Bill, the father of the groom, chose a dashing suit from Debenhams, rounding out the stylish ensemble.
The Flowers
The Honeymoon
Spending just five days in a city can be a wonderful experience, and we found that Glasgow provided the perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and convenience. Our week-long adventure began with self-guided explorations of local record shops, where we discovered hidden gems and indulged in delectable meals at quaint eateries. To broaden our horizons, we embarked on day trips to Stirling and Edinburgh by train, enjoying the scenic views and pleasant weather along the way.
Memorable Moments
As the sun set on Westerham Village Green, the picturesque scene was set for a truly unforgettable wedding celebration. The vintage bus, adorned with flowers and decorations, became the focal point as guests eagerly boarded, their excitement palpable in the air. Meanwhile, Sam carefully maneuvered his golf buggy to the designated spot where our loving couple had shared tender moments during their photo shoot. Later that evening, heartfelt speeches were delivered, bringing tears of joy and laughter to the eyes of all who listened. But the real pièce de résistance was the bridal bouquet, which changed hands not once, nor twice, but three times before it finally found its forever home. And as the night wore on, the bride herself shed her shoes and donned a more relaxed demeanor, lost in the rhythm of Nirvana’s iconic beats as she bust a move on the dance floor, her DM boots tapping out a lively tempo that seemed to match the beat of her heart.
Advice For Other Couples
Savor each moment of your day with ease, knowing that it’s impossible to engage with every single guest. Instead, relax and let natural conversations unfold. Meanwhile, thoughtfully plan and prioritize who you want in your photographs – these cherished memories will be treasured for years to come.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
As we dive into the world of wedding celebrations, let’s take a moment to appreciate the incredible work of photographers like Sarah Fleet Photography, members of the esteemed Wedding Directory. Their skill in capturing life’s most precious moments is truly remarkable. Speaking of special moments, have you ever taken a ride on a vintage bus like 1950s Vintage Bus Hire? The nostalgia and charm it brings are simply unforgettable. Of course, no wedding would be complete without the perfect transportation – whether that’s a classic VW Beetle, à la Polly Pootles, or something entirely unique. Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the tone for any event, which is why Bows Lighting is a go-to resource for many couples. And let’s not forget about the venue – Westerham Golf Club, to be exact – where love stories are made. With a beautiful wedding dress from Polka Fashions and a dashing groom’s suit courtesy of Slaters Canterbury, it’s no wonder why this day is etched in memory forever. Thanks again to Lucy and Sam for sharing their joy with us today. Rachel x