That Venue Vibe
As soon as Raye and Robin visited Upwaltham Barns, they knew they had to get married there!
“It was absolutely beautiful – quiet, intimate and yet full of character,” smiles Raye. “More than anything, the people were warm and friendly. We love the countryside and the fact that it was just stunning there in all seasons.”
Theme of the Day
After much deliberation, the happy couple settled on a colourful, pastel theme to suit the summer season, with a floral thread running throughout.
“My engagement ring is rose gold with a beautiful pale pink morganite stone, so rose gold was our accent colour,” explains Raye.
Designs and Décor
Raye and Robin wanted to make the wedding all about their friends and family, so much of the décor was based around photographs and both families helped when it came to getting crafty for the big day.
“We made lots of signs and an ‘order of the day’ board, along with lettering and our seating plan,” says Raye. “We also made our own stationery having asked a brilliant illustrator to create a character drawing of the two of us that went on our invitations and our CD wedding favours.”
Giant balloons and lanterns were also dotted around the venue, creating a wonderful vibe of celebration.
All About the Dress
Raye spotted a dress she loved online and knew she just had to try it on. With its ruched waist and beautiful lace train, she felt it was both romantic and classic at the same time. Finding it in the Teokath boutique, she loved it but kept looking around as it was a little beyond budget.
“No other dress matched up so I decided it really was ‘the one’,” she smiles. “It made me feel fab on the day so it was definitely worth splurging a little!”
Raye accessorised with a veil and rose gold flower crown, pastel blue shoes by Rachel Simpson and elegant, understated jewellery.
As for the Groom and the Bridesmaids…
Robin wore a classic navy wool suit from Next with matching waistcoat and a mint green polka-dot bow tie.
“Obviously I’m biased but he looked seriously handsome and dapper!” smiles Raye.
Raye’s six bridesmaids looked stunning in dresses from David’s Bridal. They wore different pastel shades and completed the look with rose gold heels.
Beautiful Blooms
The happy couple were inspired by the natural looking designs created by florist Kerry at Rose Cottage Flowers and decided on bright, vibrant florals for their day.
“My bouquet was incredible,” says Raye. “It was a mix of peonies, roses and other brights set off with zingy foliage.”
On the day, the florist also supplied two amazing heart-shaped wreaths for the barns alongside corsages, headdresses and buttonholes. Raye and her mother provided the centerpiece flowers, arranging seasonal blooms in simple vases.
Saying Their Vows
In keeping with the rest of the wedding, Robin and Raye’s civil ceremony was incredibly personal. Raye walked down the aisle to a song composed by Robin’s brother, their nephews were page boys and Robin’s sister read a beautiful reading. After a sing-a-long to ‘It Must Be Love’ by Madness, the newlyweds walked back up the aisle to ‘That’s Love’ by Oddisee.
The Wedding Breakfast
Keen to create a relaxed, sociable atmosphere, Robin and Raye chose to serve a barbecue menu for their wedding breakfast which included a wonderful array of meat and fish alongside delicious salads and vegetarian alternatives. As day turned to evening, Pizza Amore delighted guests with their vintage van offering wood-fired pizza.
Let Them Eat Cake!
“My amazing friend Dawn from Cushie Butterfield Cakes made our wedding cake and it was perfect,” says Raye. Each of the four tiers was a different flavour (chocolate fudge, victoria sponge, red velvet and salted caramel) and it was decorated with a rose gold ombre finish and a selection of beautiful fresh flowers by Rose Cottage Flowers.
Raye’s Favourite Moment
“It’s hard to choose just one. There were so many magical moments that we’ll never forget. The whole thing was fabulous!”
Top Tip from The Bride
“Remember, when all your favourite people are all together on one day, looking amazing, with your favourite music and yummy food, it WILL be the best day of your life, really it will!”
Images © Jordanna Marston Photography
