Wrapped in Winter Jade and Alistair had a heartfelt Hertfordshire wedding filled with love, light and meaning Images courtesy of Purple Kite Photography This couple met online in summer 2020, between the two Covid-19 lockdowns, and managed to fit in a few dates before winter restrictions began. Both living alone in London at the time, they stayed in close contact. “We had lots of time getting to know each other without pressure or other social demands,” says Jade. “We clicked straight away, enjoying fun things to do in London and sharing similar interests and values.” Alistair proposed in Central Park, New York City. While he hoped it would be a complete surprise, not much gets past Jade, and she suspected it was coming. Having said she didn’t want a public proposal, the couple walked almost the length of the park before finding a quiet spot for the moment. Their goal for the wedding was to combine details they had loved at other weddings while making the day special for both themselves and their guests. Having attended a winter wedding before, they liked the idea despite the risk of weather and were lucky with a mild, sunny day. Jade’s love of DIY also came into play, as she enjoyed making the favours and confetti bags herself. The couple decided to marry outside London, ideally near Jade’s family in Hertfordshire. After viewing several venues at weekends, they visited Hanbury Manor at the mother-of-thebride’s suggestion and fell in love with the Garden Court for its balance of modern and classic style. The venue also held special meaning, as Jade had grown up attending swimming lessons there and had once admired a wedding in the Garden Court from afar, making it feel full circle to marry there. Alistair and the groomsmen wore suits from Mr Macky’s in Old Stevenage. Paul at the shop provided a personal, attentive service and one groomsman even bought his suit afterwards as he loved it so much. Jade’s dress was created by Coco Conran, a Covent Garden-based dressmaker. After finding traditional dress shops rushed and commercial, Jade and her mum booked an appointment with the team, whose mix-and-match designs allowed Jade to create a truly bespoke dress. “The team was so warm and friendly, it was such a personal and enjoyable process,” says Jade. “We’ll always remember our mum-anddaughter days out in London.” Choosing a first dance song took some time, but they eventually settled on She Will Be Loved by Maroon 5, which guests enjoyed dancing to as well. A playlist for the evening reception followed, with DJ Peter from Coral & Blue expertly catering to requests. Coral & Blue also brought the couple’s theme to life with décor, including table flowers, lighting and chair drapes. Florist Millie Hicks of Half a Cup of Flower, with whom Jade went to primary school with, created the bouquets and buttonholes with great care. The couple also set up a memory table honouring loved ones no longer with them, which their parents especially appreciated. The couple were thrilled to celebrate with close friends and family, made even better by the mild-February sunshine. “We particularly enjoyed the speeches,” says Jade. “Al’s groom’s speech, best man Daniel’s, my bridesmaid Jen’s and my dad’s father-of-the-bride speeches were all brilliant – though my dad’s may have been a little long at 22 minutes!” Sarah Whyte of Purple Kite Photography captured beautiful images throughout the day. “Our favourites are the confetti shots,” says Jade, “especially as we’d packed all the confetti ourselves. We’d have been gutted if it had rained!” Overall, the couple enjoyed a magical day, surrounded by love! REAL WEDDINGS 43
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