Love at first swipe Sophie and Kay tied the knot surrounded by style, laughter and unforgettable family moments. Images courtesy of Hollie Randall Photography These two lovebirds first met the way many modern couples do, online. A simple swipe on Tinder eventually led to a ring on a finger. Their first date in Central London confirmed that they were soulmates. From that day onward, they never spent a single day apart. After just under a year together, Kay proposed to Sophie during a holiday in Tenerife. Kay was shaking with nerves, but still managed to get down on one knee. Of course, it was a big “yes!” as there was never a doubt for the pair. THE LOCATION The couple chose to marry at Ware Priory. Other venues they had visited simply didn’t feel right, but this venue was recently updated and decorated to a modern standard. It was perfect with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, especially thanks to the staff members Kerry and Rebecca who were happy to accommodate every idea. The team recommended suppliers for everything, from food to décor to garden games, making the entire planning process simple and seamless. Rebecca ensured the day ran smoothly from start to finish, never missing a detail and keeping everything on schedule. The venue’s grounds offered a private, quiet setting that felt like their own secluded estate, ideal for wedding photos. The ceremony room had a soft, church-like feel with stained-glass windows and a long aisle. After the vows, the newlyweds stepped outside to their loved ones beneath an arch bursting with freshly blossomed flowers. SETTING THE SCENE The wedding embraced a sage-green colour palette, one of the couple’s favourite colours and perfect for the season. With the help of Victoria Webb at Victoria’s Events, the theme came to life through centrepieces, backdrops, uplighters and sage chair and table sashes. Victoria decorated the entire room ahead of time, ensuring every detail matched their vision. Flowers were provided by The Herts Flower Girl. The arrangements featured subtle white roses and foliage, and each piece for the bridal party was crafted to complement the others. The team even delivered everything to the doorstep, carefully labelled to avoid any stress on the morning of the wedding, especially helpful with more than eleven buttonholes to organise. Other décor touches included tequila bottles, confetti bags, name cards, glasses, frames and garden games, which were a mixture of handmade items, personal buys and Etsy finds. FOOD FOR THOUGHT The couple opted for an informal buffet-style feast, choosing Teppanyaki, Greek and Caribbean dishes provided by The Chef’s Table in Ware. The food was a huge hit, with guests still talking about the curried goat. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a shot wall featuring Casamigos Reposado tequila, Kay’s favourite, that went down far too easily! The evening finished with a buffet that was devoured without hesitation. For dessert, cupcakes acted as the wedding cake, with flavours including red velvet, chocolate and banana bread, all created by Love the Cake. DRESSED TO IMPRESS Sophie wore a classic off-the-shoulder dress by Essense of Australia, featuring a high slit on the left and buttons trailing down the back. She paired it with a pearl-covered veil and ivory shoes, all purchased at Burr Bridal in Cambridge. She had saved a screenshot of that exact dress when she first began browsing REAL WEDDINGS 31
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