We got married Saturday 3rd October 2020. It was our original date, and we were determined to ensure that it stays! The last week prior to the wedding was difficult and rather a rollercoaster of emotions because of the further restrictions and for that reason rearranging plans again! I had joined a Facebook wedding dresses group for planning ideas coupled with seeing many people posting regarding their day being wonderful regardless of the restrictions, I found that rather tough to believe! But our day was perfect, though it was the wettest day since 1891 (yes 1891!) and also the car stopped working as we were going to leave for that venue! It was so lovely, relaxed, and intimate! Of course, it is always good to have the ability to fit some more people in, we reduced from 120, therefore it was not easy, however, it was probably the most incredible day!
We were built with a rather bumpy start! We knew one another for years through family, it had been tried and failed. I was stubbornly intent that he wasn't the ‘one’ and distinctly remember wishing him well in future endeavours. However, after many years of people both doing a bit of growing up and lots of persistence from his side, we finally got together. We got engaged exactly the same year, it had been something I knew could be coming, but didn't quite expect it so soon. He required on a trip to Bolton Abbey (we're big fans of walking and National Parks), we'd breakfast within this lovely little tearoom after which went for a walk. To my surprise, then he proposed in my experience by the river. Afterwards, he treated me to afternoon tea after which we spent a special afternoon in a spa. I was treated just like a queen!
As for the marriage dress I was built with a few appointments booked, but only visited the first I had booked. My friend had recently got married and bought her dress from the closing down sale, in the order I had no idea what type of dress I was searching for and I decided to go there to understand more about my options. I tried on 8 dresses, the one that would later be my wedding gown. However, I felt the neckline would be a little low for me personally and was told it could not be altered. Out of all of the different styles/designs of dresses I tried on, I knew it was my favourite. I asked the specific designer so I may go and research if any similar ones having a higher neckline have been designed. I was told it had been by Ronald Joyce. After that first shop, I went for lunch with my mum and sister and called several shops around the area I live, to ascertain if they stocked Ronald Joyce. Miraculously I was able to find a shop that was built with a free appointment on exactly the same day.
When we got to the shop (Cheshire Brides of Frodsham) I acquired several RJ gowns, such as the one I had previously tried. After fitting numerous other beautiful dresses, I just didn't like any of these as much myself because of the original. The phrase “it’s nice, although not as nice because the other one” was mentioned a great deal. I told the women at the shop about my fascination with this dress, although not being as confident with the low neckline. I was overjoyed once they told me numerous methods this might be altered. Hallelujah, it was the dress! The Hats gown was the one that is style number 69266.
Julie and Sharon in the shop were brilliant and thus helpful. As an individual who was expecting the gown shopping experience to be a great deal more anxiety-filled and disappointing, I was amazed. I’ve been a fan of the vintage vibe so when I tried the Hatsy dress on I fell deeply in love with the beading and also the detail towards the dress and sleeves. It has a fishtail silhouette and illusion eliminated back with buttons.
I was built with a two-tier, scalloped edge, long veil with beading around the edges to complement. I’m a large fan of tradition, so I desired to wear the veil over my face until I was pronounced man and wife. My husband to become gave me a Swarovski necklace at the end of the marriage rehearsal, the night time before the marriage that tied along with my diamond engagement ring. My sister (MOH) also bought me a lovely bracelet that tied in.
I think I shocked myself and everyone else if this came to planning, I was rather relaxed and organised (characteristics very unlike me!). Lots of decisions were made and things were booked in a very short period of time. I always told myself that I desired to enjoy the connection with planning as I would simply be doing it once, which I still did despite the pandemic started. I tried to stay positive that despite the fact that things were out of my control, there is nothing I could do about it coupled with faith that whatever could be, could be.
We went for any rustic, autumnal theme. Our colours were burgundy and navy. My husband used to become a carpenter, so he loves everything wood, just like I, so there would be a lot of wood integrated into our centrepieces, signs, favours etc. As an individual who does not like spending money, I did a great deal of research on the cheapest options and checked out what simple things might be done myself. Thankfully, I had some very talented members during my bridal party, so they helped a great deal with the creative aspect. Also, the Facebook group ‘The cheap wedding dresses Stuff Community’ is ideal for ideas. I wrote the section below and posted it to the group once the marriage was over.
I need to say among the best things about using a smaller quantity of guests was the standard time we got to spend using the people we did have around. After the ceremony, we had an afternoon tea with 15 people after which the evening reception was with another 15. The food was incredible. The speeches were quite funny, and it had been nice for all of us to all have the ability to laugh together, despite all the current circumstances happening. Also, it rained ridiculously heavily all day and also the car wouldn’t start in the church towards the venue, but we rolled using the punches.
It can also be worth a mention that we sent invites for individuals to watch the marriage on an app called Gotomeeting, to ensure that those who we're able to not have, could join us virtually.
