Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding - June/July 2020 (Issue 77)

28 provided an amazing service with very little notice,” Mark tells us. “He worked with us to put together a menu with a vegan, vegetarian and meat option as well as canapés and an outside bar for post-ceremony drinks.” During the meal, the newlyweds had a little surprise up their sleeve for their guests. “We arranged for singing waiters to have an argument and then burst into song during dessert,” Mark laughs. “Very few people knew, so it took everyone by surprise. People were standing on chairs, waving napkins and singing at the top of their lungs – it all finished with a conga line!” LOOKING THE PART Opting for a late wedding, starting at 4pm, the soon-to- be-weds asked their loved ones to wear formal attire for a glamorous evening vibe. Charlotte’s Suzanne Neville dress perfectly encapsulated the luxurious Italian theme they wanted to achieve. “She felt that you only get one chance to look like a bride, so she took full advantage!” Mark says. “She looked incredible.” Her lace Joyce Jackson veil was the perfect finishing touch. Mark and his groomsmen looked suitably suave in navy velvet dinner jackets and bow ties, while the two bridesmaids rocked satin pink dresses from Ghost. MEMORABLE MOMENTS Every detail was a joint decision, the only surprises kept from each other were Charlotte’s outfit and the speeches. “We put a lot of thought, time and effort into our wedding, and we wanted the day to reflect that,” Mark explains. “I tend not to get nervous, but as I ticked off the finishing touches on the morning I was worried I’d missed something. However, when I arrived at the venue and got talking to our guests in the sunshine, I felt great. On the day you put any worries aside and just relish in the fact that everyone is there to celebrate with the two of you.” Charlotte was so proud of what they had achieved with the help of their excellent suppliers, particularly their photographers Glenn and Lauren, who captured the day perfectly, and the venue’s wedding manager, Buffy Jones, who was attentive and supportive throughout. “I loved that we could show people the beauty of Arnos Vale Cemetery,” Charlotte says. “Most importantly though, I was happy that I married my soul mate.” The pair hopped in an Uber at midnight to head home. “The driver was so positive and really believed in love,” Mark says. “It was a serendipitous end to what was one of the best days of my life.” Mark’s top tip: “It’s your day, so don’t make sacrifices for other people. Believe in your decisions, but be open to suggestions.”