REAL WEDDINGS 35 Matthew and Genna first met with friends while climbing Cader Idris mountain in Snowdonia National Park. The weather that day was terrible and many climbers were turning around to going back down the mountain, but both groups were determined to reach the top and decided to group up for safety reasons. Genna comments, “I hadn’t noticed Matt too much romantically until we had accomplished the mountain and was drying off in the tea rooms at the bottom. He gave out this amazing smile with dimples on each cheek. Matt became fond of me when I gave him some spare sandwiches on top of the mountain. It’s true; food is a way to a man’s heart.” The pair exchanged Instagram accounts and went their separate ways. Three months later, they met up for a date and the rest is history! Matthew planned a special easter egg hunt in the garden for Genna and their daughter, who was four months old at the time. He originally wanted to propose during a breakaway in the Cotswold, but that was cancelled due to the Covid lockdown. Genna recalls, “It was honestly adorable, so heartfelt and personal. Matt had put so much effort into writing cute place cards of our special moments and memories over the past few years – he even made his very own Cader Idris mountain with chocolate sheep around." Matt got done on one knee and was shaking with nerves, but it's a moment they will treasure forever. Here Genna shares details about their special day… SETTING THE SCENE Now living in Hertfordshire, the couple drove through Baldock quite a lot and Genna was always drawn to the beautiful St Mary's Parish Church. She says, “The spire and the entrance arch always caught my eye – everything about it was beautiful. I felt a sense of warmth and community in a church as I was brought up as a Christian in a Catholic education. I really wanted the ceremony to be special and traditional.” She adds, “Reverend Andrew was so friendly, we connected with him so well and he made our wedding day relaxed and joyful.” The ceremony was special from start to finish, and the pair tied the knot surrounded by loved ones. The bride’s grandma read a lovely blessing, which was so personal and tailored to the nearlyweds. While they signed the marriage register, a friend beautifully sang Can’t Help Falling In Love by Elvis Presley to add to the romantic atmosphere. After exchanging vows, the church bells rang for all to hear and gave the bride goosebumps. Letchworth Golf Club was the perfect location for the reception, and the sun was sunning down on the newlyweds. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, the venue is a hidden gem with stunning views overlooking the golf course. The venue’s manager was so attentive and took the stress of wedding planning away to allow the pair to enjoy the experience fully. The bride says, “We loved the terrace that overlooked the beautiful grounds, especially as we could have the French doors open to allow the outside in. The food was delicious, and the presentation was spot on! We opted for a hot buffet to achieve a really relaxed atmosphere and allowed guests to sit anywhere.” The table centrepieces were kept simple, with candle holders wrapped in artificial eucalyptus for the perfect finishing touch. The photobooth and sweets area featured LOVE light-up letters to add the wow factor. LOOKING THE PART The bride looked stunning in a Pronovias dress called Alcycone, a mermaid style with a plunging V-neckline and stunning lace. The illusion straps and bodice left the bride feeling amazing. She accessorised her look with a cathedral-style veil with lace trim and
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