So with all the ideas under the sun, what does the editor of Wedding Ideas choose for her own big day? Find out here…
How they met
Fate played a big part in Jade and Dan’s story. “I had graduated from University and was working in a cafe bar, saving money to go travelling around the world,” explains Jade. “After working a long night shift, I got called into work in the morning because someone had called in sick – I wasn’t impressed! Dan had come in for a farewell meal with family and friends because he was moving to Canada the next day. We got talking, then kept in touch on Facebook, and four months later, met up in Whistler. The rest is history!”
The proposal
Dan asked Jade to marry him at the beautiful Headland Hotel overlooking Fistral beach in Cornwall. “He surprised me with a secret high tea lunch on the cliffside overlooking the beach, before getting down on one knee – it was perfect!” smiles Jade.
The bride’s outfit
Jade found her gorgeous Maggie Sottero gown in Champagne and Strawberries in Taunton. “I wasn’t sure when I saw it on the hanger, but the shop assistant made me try it on,” says Jade. “As soon as I did, I knew it was ‘the one’.” The chic dress featured a sweetheart neckline and asymmetric mermaid skirt covered in fabric roses. “I felt the dress needed something on the waistline, so I ordered a belt from Mori Lee, which I liked on another dress I tried on,” says Jade. She completed her look with a headband from Chez Bec, earrings from Olivier Laudus, a Glitzy Secrets bracelet and stunning suede kitten heels from Rachel Simpson.
The groom’s outfit
Dan chose two best men – his friends Mike and Martin – and Jade’s brother-in-law, Matt, was the usher. They all wore bespoke blue suits from a private London tailor, each with a different coloured lining to make their suit unique. “I’ve never been so proud. Dan looked absolutely gorgeous!” smiles Jade.
The bridesmaids
Jade’s bridesmaids were her two sisters, Hayley and Bethany, and Dan’s sister, Emily. They looked stunning in Audrey Hepburn-style dresses from Dessy in a colour colour, featuring a cowl back and floaty skirts. Their jewellery was bought from Boots and Accessorize, and the beautiful bracelets from Julieann Beads were a gift from Jade. The girls all wore chic shoes from Benjamin Adams and Pink by Paradox. Jade’s nephew, Harry, was the super-cute pageboy, wearing an adorable outfit from Marks & Spencer.
The ceremony
The ceremony was not at all what our bride expected! “I thought I’d have felt very emotional, but when I stepped onto the aisle, I just couldn’t wait to see Dan,” remembers Jade. She walked down the aisle to Maid Marian from her favourite film – Robin Hood Prince of Thieves.
The flowers
These were provided by Sabine Darrall. “She made the most beautiful bouquets I’ve ever seen!” says Jade. “She was simply the best and did an amazing job.”
The details
Jade and Dan’s rustic coral theme incorporated Canadian maple leaf details to tie in with how they met. Details included hanging D & J letters made by Dan’s parents and stationery from In The Treehouse and Swoon at the Moon. “I loved our wedding signs featuring our cats – Thomas O’Mailey and Mr Sprinkles!” laughs Jade. “They were fab and added a sense of fun to the day.” Instead of giving guests little favours, Jade and Dan decided to have a raffle, so five guests would win bigger prizes. “The place cards were made to look like playing cards, and after the speeches, we shuffled them and drew the names of the winners. It was a real talking point and completely unique idea,” explains Jade.
The cake
Instead of a cupcake tower, this couple had a scone tower! “It was delicious and a little nod to our West Country heritage,” says Jade. Guests were also treated to a fab sweetie buffet, hired from Hidden Treasures.
The entertainment
Live musician Toby Thome and later Apollo Photo & DJ got everyone on the dancefloor. The couple also booked a Groovybooth to keep guests entertained all night.
The honeymoon
After two mini breaks to Cornwall and Italy, Jade and Dan plan to honeymoon next year in Whistler.