An Essex Wedding - July/August 2022 (Issue 105)

Natalie and Mark’s wedding was booked – after COVID halted the competition’s original 2021 date – for 3rd March 2022, with Tuffon Hall offering their space as part of the prize. “We visited the venue as soon as we could after being told we’d won,” continues Natalie. “It was incredible, from its open plan space, tons of natural light, and high vaulted open woodwork ceiling. It even had underfloor heating so would be the perfect temperature for our spring wedding! We were shown around the large patio area, complete with beautiful flower beds, before being taken to the venue’s vineyard, which is the third place where our ceremony could be held. By the end of the tour we were so excited, and couldn’t wait to see how our big day would come together.” JUST GIVING The couple opted for a grey and white theme for their big day, meeting up at first with their wedding planner from One Oake, Aimée. “Aimée was amazing throughout, supplying us with a helpful plan and timeline for contacting our suppliers, as well as any information they required,” continues Natalie. “We were delighted to see we’d receive chocolate heart favours from Nirvana Chocolat; wedding stationery, name cards and a welcome sign from Leigh Calligraphy; incredible bouquets and floral displays from Rose Decor Styling; a three-tier, semi-naked cake from The Honey Bee Wedding Cake Company; balloons from As You Wish Balloons; canapés and a three-course wedding breakfast from The Great Catering Company; £1,000 of props to hire from Anthology Vintage Hire; a seven-seater Mercedes with driver from MTB Luxury Travel; wedding rings from Coo Hatton Garden; and even three rooms for the night of the wedding at Marks Tey Hotel. And that was only just the beginning!” DRESS TO IMPRESS When it came to choosing a dress, Natalie was gifted an incredible £1,000 towards her style of choice from Leigh on Sea’s Blush boutique. “I spent a further £1,000 on the most gorgeous gown, Watters Bridal Montgomery in Moscato,” says the bride. “After trying so many styles, this one made me feel like a Princess, so I knew it was the one.” Natalie was also lucky enough to receive a custom-made veil from Rebecca Anne Designs, and a bespoke hair vine and rose gold 38

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