So happy to show this beautiful spring wedding, Sally are Mark and the nicest couple ever and they are very much in love. The day looked stunning and lots of fun, which just shows their personalities perfectly. Photos by Paul Santos Photography
When did you and your husband meet?
Whilst we were both working at the local Leisure Center. Mark asked me out on a staff night out after plenty of dutch courage!
How long were you together before you got engaged and how long were you engaged for?
We've been together since March 2005 - and it was October 2012 when we got engaged - so 7.5 years together before we got engaged and 2.5 years engaged before we got married. On our wedding day we'd been together exactly 10 years and one day.
How did he propose?
We had booked a few days away in Prague. One the second night we went for a nice meal and Mark suggested a walk along the Charles Bridge to look at the lights and so I could take some photographs. He was acting a bit strange but to be honest I was too preoccupied taking pictures. He pulled me to one side at one point to look out across the river - the thought of a proposal flashed through my head for a split second, but I forgot about that when he suggested a walk up to the castle to look out over the city. In the end we climbed all the way up to the castle and when all of the other tourists had gone he got down on one knee, with a ring held out in the box, and asked me to marry him. I was gobsmacked, burst into tears and laughter and said 'Yes!'.
Where did you get married?
Brinkburn Priory, nr Longframlington, Northumberland.
How many venues did you visit before you found the one?
Around 6 or 7. As soon as we saw Brinkburn we knew it had to be there.
Who went with you to find your wedding dress?
The first time I went shopping I took my mum, Mark's mum and my two bridesmaids (my sister and best friend)
I also went by myself to one appointment - it sounds lonely but actually really helped me get to know what I liked without having loads of opinions. I also took two different friends to a couple of appointments as all my family and bridesmaids live miles away.
What was the theme of your wedding?
We wanted an countryside, rustic feel as we both like the outdoors - the venue was a good starting point for this and we did lots of homemade decorations. in relation to the colour scheme we went for navy blue with white polka dots, ivory lace and orange - these colours ran throughout the decorations, bridesmaids dresses, mens suits, flowers and favours.
What part of the planning was the most exciting for you?
Mark and I both really enjoyed the food planning and tasting :)
But the most excitement was the day we actually booked the venue and it suddenly all became real!
Did you do any DIY projects for your wedding?
Yes loads!
My mum made the invitations and favours (amongst other bits and bobs) - she is very crafty.
Mark made the rustic flower boxes for the table centrepieces from an old wooden pallet.
I made collages for all the table numbers, decorated jam jars for tea lights on the tables, and I made around 50m of bunting (taught myself to use a sewing matching very quickly!). My mum also helped me make little heart decorations to match the bunting for the ceremony room
A close friend of mine made our cake as a wedding present - it was fantastic!
How involved was your fiancé?
Actually quite involved - I couldn't have remained sane without him (and even then it was only just!). He took an interest in most things - especially the venue and the food.
What was the most stressful part of the wedding planning?
Sorting out what was included in our package with the venue was difficult and really stressful. Thankfully it all came together in the end.
Dress shopping was quite stressful at first as I had no clue what would look good on me, and there was so much choice. In the end it was something I had never considered before.
What entertainment did you have?
We just decided to have a DJ as there are so many genres of songs we like that wouldn't have been able to be covered well by a band. We considered a magician, but then decided the day was already full anyway - Im pleased we didn't as it gave us time to talk to people. There wasn't ever any downtime to get bored!
Did everything go to plan on the big day?
I think so?! I think there was a dance version of a song we requested for the ceremony played as the guests were gathering! I heard it from where I was getting ready (above the ceremony room) but apparently no one really noticed, some thought it was planned, and it was corrected very quickly!
What would you say was nontraditional about your wedding?
The reception being in two 'giant hat' tipis I suppose! I also gave a speech as I felt I didn't want the occasion to pass by without saying a few words. I didn't tell anyone except Mark as I didn't want anyone to put me off doing it before the day - I was really pleased I did in the end.
If you had any advice for other brides on their big day what would it be?
Take everything in, don't worry, make sure you spend some time alone with your new hubby and make sure you get some food and drink!! :)
Where did you go on honeymoon?
We went to a lovely hotel on the shore of Loch Lomond for a few days. We're planning something a little more exotic later in the year. We didn't want all the fun to be over too soon!
Vendors Used
Photographer - Paul Santos Photography
Flowers - Lavenders Blue
Venue - Brinkburn Priory
Caterers - Wilkins Fine Dining
Entertainment - Colin Cook Wedding DJ
Bridesmaid dress - Truly, Madly, Deeply
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