TO HAVE and to hold

from Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - Issue 97 March/April 2023

A SPA DAY Santa needs

Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa provided a beautiful setting for Melanie and Martin’s wedding Images courtesy of Kimberley Garrod Photography

Melanie and Martin first met while working at Southampton General Hospital in 2015. After a brief conversation about work and sharing hellos in passing, it wasn’t until three years later that they had a proper chat and hit it off. They arranged to meet for drinks outside of work, and the rest is history!

Martin popped the question during a walk along the beach at Lepe in 2019. Melanie says, “I was walking slightly ahead as Martin had stopped to look at something, and then he was on one knee asking me to marry him when I turned around!”

The couple set the date for March 12th 2022, and planned their dream wedding together.

Here Melanie shares details about their special day…

We picked Balmer Lawn Hotel in the New Forest for our venue as the location not only had photographic backdrops, but the spaces felt warm and welcoming too! It was clear that the staff were very attentive and passionate about their jobs.

My dad had been ill and had surgery a month before our wedding. He still managed to walk me down the aisle and share an emotional speech.

Our first kiss as husband and wife was one of the most memorable moments, but the whole day was utterly faultless and we loved every minute.

I made gift bags with favours inside for guests; the ladies had a scented candle and the men had a bottle opener. Each one also had an iced biscuit, a chocolate lolly, a scratch card, treats and a charity pin in memory of my nan inside.

Sam at Linen & Lace Events created our centrepieces and coordinated with the florist to bring our vision to life. The company was recommended by Balmer Lawn and was included in our wedding package – we weren’t disappointed!

Pink and ivory flowers made up the bouquets created by Jo Hicks Flowers – the owner Jo was so kind, patient and passionate. We discussed our vision and provided inspiration photos before she worked her magic.

Our blush two-tiered cake with pearls and fresh flowers looked incredible thanks to Alex at The Pastry Corner, another recommended supplier from Balmer Lawn.

The venue catered for all dietary requirements, nothing was too much trouble! We had canapés at our drinks reception before the wedding breakfast.

I wore an lace A-line gown with a beautiful back and diamantés all over the bodice – it was extra stunning when it caught the light.

I could never envision how everything would look all together, but I felt incredible and my husband was blown away.

Martin and the groomsmen all wore navy suits with tan brogues, blush ties and pocket squares to match the full-length bridesmaids’ dresses. The colour matched our day beautifully, and both my bridesmaids felt incredible on the day.

Saxophonist Graeme Budd performed during our ceremony and wedding breakfast –he was terrific!

We had secret singing waiters for the wedding breakfast, which was a complete surprise to everyone – including the groom! They got everyone on their feet singing along, and we even did the Conga.

After my original hair and make-up artist caught Covid two days before the wedding, the Balmer Lawn team saved the day and found amazing replacements who had me looking a million dollars in no time!

MELANIE AND MARTIN’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK

Venue and catering, www.balmerlawnhotel.com | Photographer, www.kimberleygarrod.co.uk

Dresses, www.bridesofsouthampton.co.uk | Bride’s accessories, www.theweddingfairyandfriends.co.uk Hair, www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100053986967396 | Make-up, www.eyedentitybeauty.co.uk

Toastmaster, www.letsmakeitspecial.co.uk | Venue styling, www.linenandlacehire.co.uk

Luxury 4* Country House with direct access to the New Forest for stunning photos