An Essex Wedding - Sep/Oct 2019 (Issue 88)

REAL WEDDINGS 37 A my and Gordon Raines’ relationship certainly didn’t start off like something from a storybook. “We worked together and I really didn’t like him,” laughs Amy. “Somehow he convinced me to go out with him to Nando’s, but it was the worst date ever so we called it off.” After this false start, the pair started hanging out as friends and later became a couple. “He was such a gentleman,” Amy remembers. “We had so much fun and he soon became my best friend.” After moving in together, Gordon’s attention turned to popping the question. His parents got engaged on Valentine’s Day and he was keen to continue that tradition. “We went out for a romantic meal,” Amy recalls. “It didn’t go as expected though as it was cold and raining and we were both a bit miserable. He had a gift bag on the table but he wouldn’t let me open it so I was fuming. Back at home, I stormed upstairs to put my pyjamas on!” Gordon convinced her to come back downstairs and gave her the bag. Inside was a teddy bear with the words “Will You Marry Me?” on it. “I looked up and he was down on one knee,” Amy smiles. “I burst into tears; it was the best end to a long day!” They set the date for 22 nd March, 2019, and opted for a timeless fairytale theme. We caught up with Amy to find out more… SETTING THE SCENE St Luke’s Church, Tiptree was the obvious choice for their ceremony. “It was where my parents got married,” the bride says. “I went to school next door and my aunt played the organ there for 25 years.” They then had to find a grand reception setting to fit the bill. “We looked at Layer Marney Tower, assuming it’d be out of our price range,” Amy says. “We were shocked to see how affordable it was. We visited in March when there was snow on the ground and we fell in love with it.” Venue chosen, it was time to start putting their stamp on it. The duo opted for a colour palette of blush pink accented with burgundy. The flowers were stunning with loose, textured bouquets, gorgeous greenery adorning the staircases and glass vase centrepieces with pillar candles, gems and a ring of foliage. “One of my bridesmaids runs Forever Cupcakes & Gifts,” Amy tells us. “She provided three delicious large French Fancies in burgundy, blush and ivory.” Amy created the table plan from a framed mirror with rose gold lettering surrounded by faux flowers. The table names and place settings all coordinated and guests received personalised strawberry and champagne Tiptree jam pots as favours. “Mum and I made a welcome sign from a pallet,” says Amy. “We also decorated the fireplace with light-up jars, and my mum made a beautiful wooden heart. Every corner was full of flowers and lights!” Loved ones were treated to a sumptuous feast by Bouquet Garni. “The food was amazing,” the bride remembers. “We had canapés, a choice of beef, chicken or vegetable tart followed by a yummy trio of desserts. In the evening, we dined on a tempting buffet.” LOOKING THE PART When it came to her gown, Amy was looking for a beautiful A-line style fit for a princess. “I chose Malia by Allure Bridals,” she says. “It had stunning lace sleeves and a sweetheart neckline. The sort of dress I imagined a princess wearing when I was little. I loved that it was timeless and would still Amy and Gordon’s big day was all their fairytale dreams come true Images courtesy of Ivory White Photography 