After a romantic proposal in Portugal, Sophie and Beth started looking for the perfect venue in Essex for their wedding day.
“When we arrived at Gaynes Park, we knew instantly that it was where we would get married,” smiles Sophie. “It was perfect for us – we absolutely loved the aisle and the Orangery, the intimate Mill Barn and the breathtaking gardens.”
Design and Décor
The happy couple decided on an October wedding date and enlisted Mediterranean Occasions to assist with the styling of the day. With a colour scheme of gold and blush pink, the barn was adorned with a disco ball, drapes and a projection of ‘Mrs and Mrs Paterson’.
Flowers were a major element of the wedding décor, featuring throughout the day, from lavish bouquets to stunning arrangements.
Bridal Style
Sophie found her dream dress at Fleur de Lys in Saffron Walden.
“I wanted something non-fussy but elegant and fell in love with my dress straight away,” she says.
Beth chose a stunning dress with lace detail from Creatiques in Portsmouth.
“Although I didn’t know what Sophie would be wearing, I didn’t want a dress that would get in the way of hers, so I made sure it wasn’t too big of puffy,” she smiles.
As for the Bridesmaids...
The four adult bridesmaids looked beautiful in gold sequin dresses, while the flower girls wore pretty dresses and faux fur shrugs from Crystal Designs in Sawbridgeworth.
On The Day
Following their romantic ceremony in The Orangery, accompanied by a string quartet, a drinks reception was served before the wedding breakfast.
To dine, the newlyweds and their guests enjoyed a Scotch egg followed by fillet of beef and a glazed lemon tart.
As the sun went down, a live band filled the dance floor and Beth’s sister sang for the first dance, ‘Let’s Stay Together’ by Al Green.
“We didn’t choreograph a routine but did almost trip on each other’s dresses several times, so perhaps we should have!” laughs Sophie.
Advice From Sophie
“Don’t get hung up on any small details. Just enjoy yourselves and expect to go over your budget by just a little bit!”
Their Favourite Moment
“Seeing each other for the first time before we walked down the aisle together.”
Images © Duntons Photography
If you’re looking for a breathtaking wedding venue in Essex for you special day, discover more on the Gaynes Park listing page.
