An Essex Wedding - May/Jun 2019 (Issue 86)

REAL WEDDINGS 51 The guests were well fed with a beef main. “We knew we couldn’t go wrong with a roast,” the bride says. “For dessert, we devoured mouth-watering chocolate fondants and cheesecake.” LOOKING THE PART The bride wore an incredible gown by Ronald Joyce, which sparkled beautifully in the light. “The bodice was covered in Swarovski crystals and embellishment, while the full skirt was in a simple tulle material,” she says. “I teamed it with a gorgeous headpiece made by Chez Bec and a wonderful pendant from my parents, which had the diamond from my mum’s engagement ring in it.” To run with the formal theme, the men wore smart dinner suits, bow ties and braces. “George looked so handsome and stood out slightly from his best men with a velvet jacket,” Helena explains. The bridesmaids wore dark blue full-length evening dresses with pretty embellishments to match the bride’s gown. TIME TO CELEBRATE The courtyard of Gosfield Hall was the setting for their reception. The vibrant flowers and big blue doors were a stunning backdrop and the space allowed guests to mingle in the sunshine. It was also the ideal spot for the newlyweds’ group shots. “We wanted something a little different for our couple portraits,” Helena recalls. “Lesa from Simply Artrageous provided the most amazing array of balloons. They matched our colours and we used them as venue décor and props for our photographs. The ones around the dancefloor were adorned with feathers and fairylights for a real party feel.” At home, George and Helena love messing around singing their favourite songs together. “When Hello by Adele came on, we started expressive dancing together, we soon realised a big circle of guests had formed around us – it still makes us laugh!” she says. “This was followed by George’s solo rendition of Cardi B’s I Like It !” MEMORABLE MOMENTS The whole day ran so smoothly and was filled with fun and laughter, so it’s no surprise the couple have endless happy memories. “Having everyone we hold dear to us together in one place meant so much,” the bride says. “Walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing everyone’s faces – especially George’s – is a moment that I’ll never forget.” The pair’s formal, sophisticated day ended in the bride climbing a large stag statue in front of the hall in her wedding gown! “There were lots of funny photos, but I soon realised it was easier to get up than back down,” she laughs. Helena’s top tip: “All of the little details seem so important when you’re planning. However, on the day you realise that all that really matters is the two of you getting married and creating precious memories.” 