As you scroll through this post, I’m guessing you’ll be utterly charmed by Lottie and Adomas’ picturesque wedding celebration. The loving couple exchanged vows on September 8th, 2018, at Wilkswood Farm in Swanage, Dorset, amidst a backdrop of rolling hills and rustic charm. It’s a destination wedding that exudes effortless elegance.The whimsical, free-spirited atmosphere is perfectly encapsulated by Lottie’s stunning Grace Loves Lace dress, while the lush greenery and natural beauty of the outdoor setting only add to the enchantment. And let’s not forget the show-stopping macramé ceremony backdrop – a true masterpiece!What I adore most about this wedding, however, is the couple’s creative endeavors. Lottie rolled up her sleeves (literally!) to arrange the flowers with her family’s help, while Adomas crafted the breathtaking backdrop that added an extra layer of magic to their special day.As a result, the planning process seemed remarkably relaxed, allowing for a chill and joyful atmosphere on the big day. I’m thrilled to have Robin Goodlad’s incredible photographs to immortalize this lovely celebration.
The Proposal
The Vision
As we envisioned our special day, we craved an atmosphere that exuded simplicity and relaxation, with a carefree festival vibe. Moreover, we were adamant that the majority of the celebration take place alfresco, allowing us to connect with nature. Additionally, it was crucial for us that our beloved canine companions, Tarka and Zero, be integral to the proceedings, as they are an extension of our family.
The Planning Process
As we embarked on planning our special day, we found ourselves in a bit of a rush compared to many other couples! We booked the venue early on, around January or February 2018, and then focused on crafting the finer details like music, food, and invitations. Our goal was to take an active role in as much of the process as possible, driven by a desire to keep costs manageable and make the experience even more personal. One of our most treasured memories from that day is the beautiful arch we had constructed for the ceremony – it was lovingly made by Adam himself! We’re actually planning on incorporating it into our garden now as a heartfelt memento. We also drew heavily upon the expertise and support of our loved ones, with Adams’ mom lending a hand in designing the invitations, name cards, and wedding favors, which were delightful little pots of honey from Lithuania. Meanwhile, Lottie’s mom and sister took charge of creating the stunning floral arrangements and decorations that added to the overall charm of our homemade wedding – it was truly the way we had always envisioned it.
Budget
The Venue
Nestled in the picturesque town of Swanage, Wilkswood Farm presents a serene atmosphere, where breathtaking vistas meet effortless elegance.
Your Outfits & Accessories
The couple’s fashion choices were a perfect blend of individuality and cohesion. Lottie stood out in her Rosa dress by Grace Loves Lace, a beautiful and comfortable piece that exuded simplicity. Her accessories, including an upper arm bracelet from AquarianThoughts on Etsy and barefoot sandals from StreetStyleSandals on Etsy, added a touch of whimsy to the overall look. Adam, meanwhile, opted for a classic tan skinny fit suit from Next, paired with J shoes that complemented his stylish ensemble. Tarka & Zero, not to be outdone, brought their unique flair to the table with hessian/burlap bowties from CoolDudsforHotDogs on Etsy.
Beauty
The mastermind behind Lottie’s stunning locks and flawless makeup was none other than my talented sister, Lucie, who brought her creative flair to the table.
The Flowers
Crafted by a trio of creative minds – Lottie, her sister Lucie, and their mother Jacquie – this endeavor showcases the collaborative spirit that brought them together to shape something truly special.
Groomsmen
The wedding party’s attire was a sight to behold, with the best man, Efka, donning the exact same jacket as Adam, creating a sense of continuity and cohesion. Similarly, the bride’s father, Chris, opted for the same style, mirroring Adam’s choice without exception. This subtle yet effective detail added a touch of elegance and refinement to the overall atmosphere.
Bridesmaids
The wedding party was comprised of a Maid of Honour, who happened to be the bride’s own sister, Lucie. Joining her were three bridesmaids: Danii, Kubby, and Beanie. What’s particularly noteworthy is that they all opted for dresses from Asos’ Maya range, which added a touch of uniformity to their overall aesthetic. And in a refreshing departure from traditional footwear, each of them decided to go barefoot – a choice that not only reflected their carefree spirits but also created a memorable visual contrast.
The Readings & Music
As the ceremony unfolded, the serene atmosphere was perfectly set in motion by a poignant passage from Paul Coelho’s The Alchemist, read beautifully by Jacquie, the bride’s mother. Meanwhile, the aisle was serenaded with the soulful rendition of Leonard Cohen’s classic hit ‘Hallelujah’ by Pentatonix, a harmonious fusion that sent shivers down the spines of all present. As the newlyweds exchanged their vows and sealed their love, the crowd swayed to the rhythm of ‘(What A) Wonderful World’, Sam Cooke’s timeless gem that perfectly captured the essence of the joyous occasion. In the evening, the celebration continued with The Average Blues Band, their bluesy tunes keeping the party alive and kicking.
Your Photographer
The Cake
The quintessential Lithuanian treat, Sakotis is a traditional cake that can be found in bakeries and markets across the country. When purchasing a slice or an entire cake, you’re sure to experience the rich flavors and textures that have made Sakotis a beloved staple of Lithuanian cuisine.
The Details & Décor
To create a truly unique and memorable atmosphere for the ceremony, we incorporated several handmade elements, including a beautiful wooden arch crafted by Adam. The arch was complemented by a stunning macrame curtain, sourced from NodeForHappiness on Etsy. For seating and outdoor areas, we relied on Wilkswood’s generous provision of hay bales, fairy lights, and fire pits. To add a touch of whimsy inside the marquee, we used real ivy and gypsophila to create a lush, green atmosphere. On tables, decorated jars with candles were crafted by Lucie herself, adding warmth and ambiance to the space. For the evening’s chillier moments, we placed a cozy basket of blankets at the ready. Finally, tree stumps provided by a thoughtful friend added a charming rustic touch to the aisle.
The Honeymoon
A memorable experience in Belize was made possible through a collaboration with Naturally Belize, who arranged accommodations at two distinct destinations – the esteemed The Lodge at Chaa Creek in San Ignacio and the charming Victoria House in San Pedro.
Memorable Moments
As couples prepare to exchange their vows, they’re increasingly incorporating unique and personalized elements into their ceremonies. One such tradition is handfasting, a symbolic act of unity that brings a touch of magic to the proceedings. Imagine walking down the aisle as the sun sets, surrounded by the soft glow of sparklers or twinkling lights, adding an air of enchantment to the atmosphere. To make it even more special, why not involve your furry friends? Having dogs bring the rings during the ceremony can be a heartwarming and memorable moment for all involved. And for the truly adventurous couple, how about incorporating a pyramid with their bridesmaids, creating a visually striking and Instagram-worthy display that will leave guests in awe. These unconventional elements can help make the ceremony feel more like an unforgettable experience and less like a traditional wedding ritual.
Advice For Other Couples
While it’s impossible to plan every aspect of your wedding with precision, embracing the unknown can actually add to the excitement. Consider enlisting the help of loved ones to streamline planning and make the experience more intimate. Not only will this approach save you time and money, but it’ll also result in a celebration that truly reflects your unique style. Moreover, investing in an exceptional photographer is crucial, as your wedding photos will be the sole visual reminders of your special day. When those cherished memories arrive, reliving the joy and magic of your big day becomes possible.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
Robin Goodlad’s photography skills shone brightly at Wilkswood Farm Wedding Venue as he captured the joyous moments of Adomas and Lottie’s special day. The pair chose to indulge in a delicious spread provided by Simply Gourmet Catering during the daytime, while The Smoked Pig took care of their evening cravings. To ensure their guests remained comfortable throughout, Luxury Little Rooms provided an oasis for weary partygoers. As they exchanged their vows, Butterfly Days Ceremonies played a pivotal role in officiating the ceremony with elegance and poise. Adomas and Lottie’s love story was further embellished by the stunning attire from Grace Loves Lace, which perfectly complemented the bride’s own sense of style as a member of Wedding Suppliers’ Bridal Fashion collective. The Average Blues Band got everyone grooving to their tunes, making for an unforgettable evening. As the newlyweds embarked on their romantic getaway to Naturally Belize, it was clear that they were truly living their best life. Rachel’s heartfelt gratitude and admiration for Adomas and Lottie’s breathtakingly beautiful day are a testament to the joy and magic that can unfold when everything comes together in perfect harmony.