Your East Midlands Wedding - Page number 21 - October/November 2021 (Issue 46)

J ames and Katy met through mutual friends and it became clear that they shared a strong connection after a few dates. Katy says, “We were confident in each other’s company; every conversation was so effortless and full of laughter.” It was evident from the early stages of the relationship that they had found the one. Katy comments, “We’ve always had a way of making natural progressions throughout our relationship, without always thoroughly speaking about them beforehand.” During a trip away to Buxton, the exact location of their first holiday together, James proposed on the 18 th February 2019, and popped the question during a picturesque walk through Dovedale. Katy had expected an earlier proposal thanks to her work colleagues who’d convinced her that James would propose during a cruise holiday to Norway in late 2018. Although it never happened, Katy was pleased that the actual proposal was a complete surprise. The pair initially planned the wedding before Covid-19 and once the pandemic hit the UK, the couple agreed to stick to their set date unless the day was cancelled. However, the timing was perfect and any regulations lifted before they said “I do.” SETTING THE SCENE When it came to sourcing the perfect reception space, what location would be better than The Dower House Hotel? The elegant property features beautiful red-brick walls, stunning windows and mock-Tudor timbers. With simple lines and beautiful shapes, the building creates the perfect backdrop for wedding celebrations. Katy says, “After visiting the venue on our first tour, we both fell in love with the Edwardian-themed country house and the beautiful grounds. We could envisage our gorgeous wedding reception and nothing was too much trouble for the team who catered to our vision to ensure the perfect day!” James wanted to include flowers as part of the centrepieces, which looked so elegant in tall vases. The pair loved the idea of navy and white florals and incorporated this throughout the bouquet and flower arrangements. The traditional-style table plan worked perfectly with the navy and gold colour scheme and each guest could find their seat easily thanks to the simple but elegant place names. Here guests received the perfect favours. Katy says, “We wanted to give our guests REAL WEDDINGS 21