An Essex Wedding - Nov/Dec 2019 (Issue 89)

REAL WEDDINGS 43 made table numbers in glass jars filled with faux flowers and crystals as well as a wooden sign made out of apple crates. “Our friends and family were treated to a delicious meal,” Hayley says. “We had deep-fried brie to start and lamb shank with red wine jus and mash for our main, finished off with an Eton mess dessert. There was also a cheese board after the speeches.” LOOKING THE PART The bride found her dress in Kay Mason Bridal. “It was called Barcelona ,” she says. “It was similar to a fishtail-style dress, but it wasn’t fitted right to the knee. I had it altered to add a lace top with sleeves.” Hayley accessorised it with borrowed jewellery, which had been worn at two other weddings in her family, and gorgeous glittery sandals. The men all rocked navy suits with pink pocket squares and Hayley’s best girls wore coordinating maxi chiffon dresses. MEMORABLE MOMENTS Both the bride and groom felt excited in the morning, but the nerves soon kicked in just before the ceremony. “We soon relaxed,” Hayley says. “The whole day was incredible. It’s hard to pick just one highlight, but having a guard of honour as I walked down the aisle was great!” The couple also had some unexpected visitors. “We were outside having photos taken when a fire engine drove past,” the bride tells us. “There was shouting as the firefighters recognised the groom. On the way back, they stopped for pictures and picked me and John up for a photo – it was so funny and totally unplanned.” A HELPING HAND The day went so well, thanks to some lovely people. “Our photographer, Emma, was amazing,” Hayley says. “She was supportive, made us laugh and was interactive with our loved ones.” Special thanks also have to go to John’s brother, James, for an amazing speech, and Megan, Hayley’s maid-of-honour, as nothing was too much trouble for her. WORDS OF WISDOM “Our top tip for the day would be to make time for each other,” Hayley says. “Take a step back and savour the memories because it is overwhelming and goes quicker than you can imagine.” The pair made a point of planning alone time together after the ceremony, taking a ride in their Regent Landaulette wedding car. Hayley continues, “It gave us a chance to take a deep breath and say ‘Oh my god we’re married!’ We went back to the venue with fresh heads ready for the meal and we got a big cheer from everyone.” 