Real wedding

REAL WEDDING: Happily ever after

Patience and positivity was key to ensuring Catherine and David got their dream wedding during the pandemic. The result - a drop-dead-gorgeous day filled with love, laughter and lots of cake!

Photographs by: Carla Whittingham, carlawhittingham.co.uk

THE COUPLE >> A perfect modern fairytale brought Catherine (34) and David (41) together. The pair met through an online dating site in 2017, hit it off and set up home together in Leeds. Catherine works in HR, specialising in diversity and inclusion, and David works in IT project management. David popped the question during a romantic getaway to the Amalfi Coast in June 2019. The sun was shining and the couple had just enjoyed a delicious lunch at Chez Black in Positano. A short stroll along ‘Lover’s Lane’ took them to a cliff edge where David dropped to one knee with the sea and harbour in the background. Stunning.

THE VENUE >> The couple tied the knot at Thicket Priory in York, a truly magical venue that oozes charm and character in every nook and cranny. Catherine and David were in search of a venue that made guests feel relaxed, but with a little bit of luxury thrown in for good measure. A place where they could be themselves, but be transported to somewhere truly special at the same time. Lots of fresh greenery and white flowers ensured that the day was classy and elegant. The simple colour palette of dark navy and light grey complemented the theme. THE BRIDE WORE >> A beautiful Enzoani gown with bespoke alterations by Scarlet Poppy Bridal Boutique. Catherine completed the look with Rainbow Club shoes and Swarovski jewels.

THE GROOM WORE >> David and his groomsmen were suited and booted in M&S suits and Joseph Cheaney & Sons shoes. They accessorised with Swagger and Swoon bow ties and pocket squares and David finished the look with an inherited pocket watch and cufflinks.

THE CAKE >> Lisha at LS Cakery was the brains behind the sweet creation. Three delicious tiers of vanilla, lemon and red velvet. Decorated with fresh flowers and topped with a silver vase that was gifted from Catherine’s parents, who also used it on their own wedding cake. A lovely touch.

SPECIAL DETAILS >> Fleur Adamo Floral Design helped the couple to make all of their bloom dreams come true. Having had to pivot from peonies and panda anemones to white roses and fresh greenery after moving the original date due to the pandemic, the couple were delighted with their floral arrangements. Personal details included a pin gifted by Catherine’s late grandma and cufflinks and

a pocket watch that belonged to each of David’s grandfathers. Catering was supplied by Baba Ganoush Catering, live music by Electric Idols got the party underway, and as big quiz-lovers, the couple’s fathers hosted games and quizzes to add to the entertainment. Catherine added a funky edge to her traditional bridal look with a custom-painted leather jacket by The Mermaid Effect. A show stopping moment was the couple’s first dance, which took place on the breathtakingly beautiful bandstand as the sun was setting over the horizon. Complete with smiles and sparklers, it was just perfect.

HOW YOU HAD TO PIVOT IN THE PANDEMIC >> Catherine and David’s original date was set for May 2020, however the couple had to adapt to Government guidelines. On 14 October, they were finally able to tie the knot and start the rest of their lives as Mr and Mrs. A rollercoaster wedding planning experience full of twists and turns turned out to be the dream day for all involved.

TOP TIPS >> “We found that we were still able to keep most aspects of our day as we had originally planned and were able to work with all our suppliers to ensure that we were still following the rules and keeping everyone safe. “The main impact was having to reduce our guest list, which was difficult but we were able to incorporate friends and family over Zoom and we are hoping to have a party in the future. In many ways we both felt like it turned out even better than we had imagined, we got to spend more time with the guests who were able to be with us >>

and, importantly, we got to spend more time with each other. “We got to get married and that is the main thing, and everyone made so much effort to ensure it was all perfect. You just have to embrace it, we tried to do that by making it a part of the day with wedding favour face masks, personalised hand sanitiser and creative signs reminding guests to socially distance.”

THE HONEYMOON >> The pair had originally planned a threeweek break touring Japan, but plans have been put on hold due to the pandemic. Instead, the happy couple enjoyed a week in St Ives, Cornwall. The perfect place to relax, unwind and share precious moments.

THE PHOTOGRAPHER >> The lovely Carla Whittingham captured the day perfectly. An incredibly talented photographer who was able to instantly put Catherine and David at ease. Effortless, elegant and exquisite work.

SUPPLIERS >> Venue: Thicket Priory Photographer: Carla Whittingham Videographer: Hello There Films Hair: Boutique Wedding Hair Makeup: Emily Franks Catering: Baba Ganoush Catering Florist: Fleur Adamo Floral Design Cake & favours: LS Cakery Entertainment: Electric Idols Dress: Scarlet Poppy Bridal Boutique

Happy campers

Drive up the ultimate adventure with Yorkshire Vehicle Hire’s Defender Camping motors. Rev it up, hit the road and let these wild and wonderful vehicles lead the way on your next super staycation.

yorkshirevehiclehire.co.uk

IMAGE CREDIT: @wearecreativemachine