they accessorised with ties and pocket squares from Azazie in a hue to complement the bridesmaids’ dresses. The bridesmaids all looked beautiful in their steel blue chiffon dresses, all in different styles to suit them. “We shared custom measurements for each of them so they fitted each bridesmaid perfectly, even Grabriella who was eight months pregnant!” Esther says. CELEBRATE IN STYLE Esther’s uncle played the cello as she walked down the aisle and family friend Keith played the violin during the signing of the register. “It was very special to have them both involved,” Esther remembers. They were accompanied by John Young, talented organist and pianist from Taunton. During the post-ceremony drinks reception at Old Bridge, The Sunset Cafe Stompers performed a two-hour set. Esther came across the trad jazz bad at an apple day celebration at local cider farm, Burrow Hill. “They were wonderful, full of character, and played sensitively to the surroundings. They really set the party tone with their upbeat vintage jazz,” she remembers. Gloucestershire Magician, Richard Parsons, entertained all assembled while the newlyweds headed off for photos. “He was so friendly, and completely baffled some of our guests with his slight of hand,” Esther says. “He made a special effort to do a few special tricks for me and Oliver too.” For the evening bash, a DJ kept the dancefloor full and guests had great fun with the photo booth. MEMORABLE MOMENTS “For me, the day could have ended on the way to the church and I’d already had a brilliant time,” Esther says, “but it just kept getting better and better! “The church service was truly special. A lot of our friends aren’t Christians, but a number of them said how wonderful it was. We were lucky enough to have fabulous music, a brilliant vicar and a beautiful Somerset setting.” The couple have some thanks they’d like to make: “Laura our photographer was fantastic,” Esther remembers. “She fitted in, made everyone laugh and relax, and was so friendly with me and Oliver that someone even asked her how long she’d known us! “The other people that cannot go unmentioned are John and Liz, the owners of Old Bridge. They were unbelievably helpful every step of the way. You couldn’t ask for nicer people to help host your special day.” BRIDE’S TOP TIP “Lists are your best friend,” Esther says. “I had lists for everything, so that approaching the day I didn’t have to think too hard. Have lists of what needs to go where, what you still need to buy, what you need to do on which day... And give the on-the-day lists to your inner circle, so they know what’s going on too. Mine were grateful!” THE GETAWAY The newlyweds set off on a romantic two-week honeymoon in Italy, first to Tuscany then on to Verona. “Our Tuscan farm stay was perfect for resting after the wedding, then Lake Garda and Verona gave us a busier time towards the end,” Esther says. “It was a very hot fortnight, 38 degrees at times, but we loved it.” 27 REAL WEDDINGS
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