Your Yorkshire Wedding - November/December 2019 (Issue 39)

REAL WEDDINGS 31 I s there a better ice-breaker than a shared love of music? Sandra and Steve first met in 2011, when they were both performing at a club in Leeds. “I heard Steve singing but I couldn’t see him,” Sandra says. “I remember thinking that he was excellent.” Steve clearly thought the same about Sandra after watching her perform, and so he approached her during the break – the rest is history! The pair have been in harmony ever since that night, and a few years later Steve popped the question while on holiday in Dunster. “I feel so lucky to have found someone so talented and kind,” says Sandra. “We now get to work together too as a music duo called Skinner and T’witch, specialising in weddings.” Having to fit their big day around a busy touring and recording schedule, the couple set the date for 31 st December, 2018, for a New Year’s Eve to remember. We caught up with Sandra for all the details… SETTING THE SCENE The happy couple opted for the magnificent Ripley Castle as the setting. Steeped in history with a homely feel, it was perfect for what they wanted: a Christmassy wedding that drew on inspiration from Medieval and Pagan traditions. Accented with a palette of red and green, the day was a true festive fiesta. The floral arrangements were seasonal and Pagan-inspired. “Tradition dictates that we brought greenery indoors,” Sandra explains. “The day was full of holly, ivy, red berries and foliage. In contrast to this, my intention was to be a snow queen; my bouquet was made up of simple white calla lilies and diamantés.” There was also a kissing ring, which is an ancient decoration of winter greenery and berries, under which Steve and Sandra kissed – just as you would with mistletoe. Steve is a songwriter, and in a wonderfully romantic gesture, he wrote a song to celebrate the occasion. “Not surprisingly, it’s called The Wedding Song ,” Sandra tells us. “We recorded the song not only for radio airplay, but we also had it for the ceremony.” Sandra’s friend is a gifted artist, who painted an image of an abundant tree for the CD cover. This image then became a motif for the day as guests were given the CD as favours and the talented cake designer created an incredible sweet replica. There was a wonderful ambience throughout. From the flaming torches at the entrance welcoming loved ones, to the candlelit ceremony. “When I entered the room it was dark and hugely atmospheric,” Sandra recalls. “Everything shone and glistened – it was breathtaking.” Wanting to have a festive feel, the pair chose various entertainment acts to perform in different rooms of the castle. Graphic designer Sarah Patrick created a schedule of events, which stood on an easel at the entrance. For a stylish arrival, the pair chose a characterful white Beauford Limousine. “We loved that it was decked out in flowers,” Sandra tells us. “Plus, the groom and best man got to have a 20-minute joy ride before being dropped off at the castle!” LOOKING THE PART To stand out from the traditional look of the day, Sandra looked stunning in a white, silver and diamanté snow queen-style look. “I wanted a very understated dress,” the bride says. “My Bianco Evento dress was simple, elegant and classic. It had a sparkly waistband and I accessorised it with a handmade lace cape and a crystal-edged veil, which twinkled in the candlelight. My outfit was from The Bridal Emporium; I can’t recommend the boutique enough, especially Claire Amelia who made our visits some of the happiest moments during the planning.” Sandra’s finishing touches were a pair of vintage earrings and a crystal hair comb by Jenny Packham to complement her 1940s-style hair do. Steve chose the quirky gentleman’s outfitters Jenson Samuel for his big-day  Sandra’s top tip: “When it comes to the day, let nothing knock you off your stride. Little things, or even big things, might not go to plan, but it’s your wedding and you’ll never have it again. Take a deep breath, carry on and enjoy every moment.”