Sarah and Nathan were married in the beautiful Dawley Barn at Lainston House Hotel in Winchester.
Right from the very beginning they had a very clear view about how they wanted their day to go with the focus very much on family and friends as Sarah explains. “My dad died 11 years ago, so this day was always going to be different, less perfect somehow. With that in mind, I wanted it to be a relaxed, beautiful occasion filled with friends and family where everyone could have a good time.”
She fell in love instantly when she first saw her dress, designed by Kate Halfpenny, which included a silk underdress and a delicate lace overlay. “I wanted a dress which would reflect the style of the day; vintage and relaxed. It was the first dress I tried and I loved it as soon as I put it on. However, I tried on about 6 other dresses after, but ended up buying the first one. I loved that it was so comfortable and it felt amazing as soon as I put it on.”
Sarah and Nathan really wanted to put a very personal stamp on their wedding day and so they spent a lot of time making as many things as possible. “I knew I wanted a lovely vintage, rustic feel, filled with gorgeous, personal touches…….I wanted to include my dad in the day, so we had old family photos arranged on vintage crates; photo-frames sources from charity shops far and wide. We had an arrangement of herbs and Nathan’s Grandad’s old suitcase for our cards and gifts. My mum made our wedding seating plan and decorated a metal bike which was propped outside the Dawley barn. ”
The wedding invites and place cards were all made by the bride, as well as the wedding favours, which were small pots of sweets with ‘thank you’ tags stamped on. They placed hundreds of small lace lined, glass jars filled with candles in their reception room which filled the barn with a soft, warm light.
Sarah got ready surrounded by some of the loveliest and most supportive bridesmaids that I have ever met! Her best friend even did her make-up for her. She was very conscious that each of her bridesmaids felt comfortable in their dresses and so she gave them a selection to choose from….they each chose one that fitted their body shape and which they felt good in. The tones blended beautifully with a mixture of soft nudes and blush.
Sarah and Nathan also hired the most fabulous jazz band to play just after the ceremony, to keep their guests entertained while the formal images were taken. However, spending time with their friends and family was their absolute priority for the day and so they kept their formal photos to just a couple.
Sarah and Nathan’s wedding was one of the most beautiful and magical weddings that I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing. With their focus very much on family and friends, the sense of support and love was quite overwhelming.
Thank you so much Nathan and Sarah for allowing me to share your day and I wish you every happiness in your future together. You are such a wonderful couple and it was such a fabulous pleasure to spend time with you both….and seriously…….that sunset!!
Much love & hugs, Natalie x
Venue: Lainston House Hotel // Designer of the dress: Kate Halfpenny // Bridesmaids Dresses: Coast : House of Fraser : Phase 8 // Hair: Tori from Riot Hairdressing // Make-up: Vanessa Pymble (Best friend) // Florist: Arcade Flowers // Cake: Amanda Reilly // Stationery: Order of the Day & Menu from Pear Paper Co. // Catering: Lainston House // Entertainment: Jazz Spivs & Eskimo // Photobooth: The Vintage Photo Booth Company
Contact me for your Wedding at Lainston House Hotel Hampshire.
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