PURE & SIMPLE The couple wanted an intimate wedding, so chose to invite only their closest family and friends. “Because we kept things low-key, we didn’t really have a colour scheme in mind,” says Ruth. “For this reason we didn’t do table names – and we didn’t even have a table plan! Instead, we just let everyone find their seats, with Will’s mum creating the place names as she’s very artistic. It’s a good thing she offered, as Will and I would have just printed the names off a Word document!” When it came to decorations, the couple were keen to reuse and recycle, saving on costs and the environment. “We collected glass candlesticks from charity shops and car boot sales, and had a mixture of candles in them for centrepieces,” continues the bride. “Our florist, Amy, provided some eucalyptus which we arranged around the candles. As for the actual flowers, I’m not too sure what we had in the end! We sent Amy photos for inspiration and then let her do her thing! It was important that we didn’t have too many, as I’d hate to see them go to waste after. For this reason we used lots of dried flowers, as we wanted them preserved for us to keep. My bouquet is now on our coffee table in the lounge!” JUST THE TWO OF US Keeping in with the intimate celebration, Ruth and Will chose not to have bridesmaids or groomsmen. “This also gave me more time to search for a dress that was elegant and timeless,” says Ruth. “In the end I came across the designer Sarah Seven, however, there’s only one boutique in the UK you can try her designs on. So off I went with my mum and sister to London! I ended up with the top of one dress, but changed the skirt. I also thought I wanted a train, but realised it was quite heavy when trying it on and felt it would irritate me on the day. I went dress shopping in May with the wedding in October – and if I could give any bride-to-be some advice it’s to give yourself more time than that!” Will’s outfit was found much closer to home; in All About The Suit in Darlington. “He chose a three-piece blue checked suit with burnt orange tie,” continues Ruth. “We also bought matching ties for our brothers and dads to wear.” NIGHT FEVER When it came to the evening entertainment, Ruth and Will opted for a DJ and saxophonist. “The saxophonist in particular made our evening,” says Ruth. “He played along to the DJ set which was amazing, and it was the moment where everyone came together and really let their hair down. What made the night even better was the fact I’d seen an online video a week before our wedding where a couple used a pair of white sunglasses with their names on for the evening party. We didn’t realise they would be such a hit! Every guest had their time wearing the sunglasses and were beckoned to show off their best moves on the dancefloor.” Emotions certainly ran high for the couple on the day. “It was really surreal,” explains Ruth. “You’ve planned something for so many months and all of a sudden, all your plans come together and it’s right there, happening. I really thought I was going to cry at some point, but I think I was too excited and happy in the end. And I knew that Will was going to be emotional so it would have been a nightmare if we were both inconsolable! We both can’t believe how fast the day went – people warn that you blink and miss it, but you really can! It’s most definitely worth taking a minute to soak it all up.” REAL WEDDINGS 35
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