The Wedding of Summer Dreams – Emily & Ben

In August, I was contacted by the lovely Emily who realised she needed a co-ordinator for her wedding day, with only 2 weeks to go(!) She was a very organised bride so when we met and had a chat about her vision for the day she handed me a full excel spreadsheet (I knew instantly we would get on well !)

As we chatted, Emily’s dream day that had all been in her head, was starting to be unlocked and shared by me – she realised I was on the same page as her and I could instantly see the worry and stress start to dissipate as she began to gain my trust.  She flourished in the opportunity to discuss all things weddings with someone as equally passionate and enthusiastic as her. One of the great reasons for having a planner as we will never tire of the wedding chat – ha!

Emily married Ben at her local church in Oxfordshire and the reception followed a short sunny walk away on her Grandparent’s estate. Guests enjoyed champagne and canapés in the orchard with stunning live music played on a harp by her talented cousin. The Master of Ceremony’s provided charm and humour and did a wonderful job of rounding up the guests and leading them down to the wedding reception held in an epic marquee overlooking the lake. Truly stunning!

Emily and Ben have a shared love for woodland creatures and this formed the theme for the day. What I loved about this couple was it really was all about them but in such an open, charming and light-hearted way.

Emily opted for a all-white theme complimented with pops of bold colour. Truly elegant and glamorous but with a fun and down to earth vibe. An array of multi-coloured wild flowers adorned the tables, interspersed with multi-coloured candles. This was echoed in the bouquets and flower ring above the dance floor. A really country classic feel but with a modern edgy twist. It worked beautifully!

Emily looked truly stunning in a Sassi Holford gown. She adorned a lace bodice during the church ceremony and wedding breakfast, and then removed it when it was party time. And this Bride Babe knows how to party!

The Bridesmaids wore gorgeous white – yes white – dresses from LK Bennett. I’ve never seen this theme pulled off quite so elegantly or effectively before this bridal squad. The cut and fit of the material suited each shape and size and was worn effortlessly by the whole party.

Another personal yet fun touch the couple decided to add was a mini treasure hunt pre-wedding breakfast. Each table, named after a woodland creature (badger, fox, hen…you get it) had a clue card which lead them to their woodland animal hidden somewhere on site. The designated ‘hunter’ went to find their creature and upon return had to pop a confetti cannon. The losing table were dressed by the winning table in fancy dress! A wonderful way to get guests talking on their tables, keeping spirits high and hinting at the party vibe to come!

Exceptional food and service was provided by Kearney’s Catering. The cake, which was hand crafted by Emily’s Aunt – another personal touch I loved, was cut after the main course and served as dessert to each table. Each cake was brought out one by one complete with a fountain candle. Party vibes or what!

A final surprise came as a gift from the Bride to her handsome Groom – a mobile Espresso Martini Van. (Ben’s favourite cocktail). It was a very welcome surprise from the whole wedding party and it became a real focal point for the evening’s entertainment.

This really was the wedding of Summer Dreams. Wild and whimsical, fun and full of love. A gorgeous country wedding with a huge party vibe.

I was truly honoured to co-ordinate Emily & Ben’s special day as they were a dream couple who just really wanted everyone to have a good time and share their love for each other and their family and friends. Oh, and the woodland creatures….

Supplier Love-links:

Wedding Co-ordinator; Lianne of Blonde Army (@blondearmy)

Photography: Victoria Phipps

Flowers: tbc

Catering: Kearney’s Catering

Bride’s Dress: Sassi Halford

Bridesmaid Dresses: L K Bennett 

Groomswear: tbc

Stationery: Rebecca Bright

Hair and Make Up: Yeoweddings 

Band: Flynn and Tonics

Espresso Martini Van: RuttleandRowe

Marquee: tbc