story Jodie and Matt met at university and incorporated their love of literature into their big-day at The Portico Library Images courtesy of Maddie Farris Photography OUR BEAUTIFUL Jodie and Matt met during their first year of university. They were both members of a drama society and involved in the yearly student pantomime. “I was creating a pole out of cardboard tubes, and Matt came over to tell me that it had started to sag,” says Jodie. “In my frustration, I swore violently at him and from that day on, Matt says he fell head over heels for my Northern charm. Matt was (and is) like sunshine. He makes everything brighter, more fun, and we have so much in common.” Matt proposed in their flat on their 10 year anniversary by tying the ring to the collar of their friend’s dog, Billie. “We had been together a long time and talked about getting married,” shares the bride. “After several personal losses, it just felt right to celebrate what we had and do something for joy’s sake. On the day of our anniversary, we had planned a trip to Chester for the weekend to visit the zoo. We exchanged anniversary presents before we left, but Matt held us up saying he was waiting on a delivery. Suddenly Matt disappeared to get the door, and I heard a dog running up the stairs. I was understandably confused until Billie appeared, and Matt told me to check her collar. There was the ring! Billie joined in all the excitement when I said yes, running up and down the flat and bouncing on the sofa! We knew we didn’t want anything lavish, so we decided early on that we wanted to get married on our 11th anniversary. We also knew we wanted to have a small intimate ceremony, with a big party later in the year, as it seemed like less pressure and meant we could enjoy each part of the day.” Here the bride shares some of her favourite moments from their big day... 23 REAL WEDDINGS
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