Espresso From coffee shop meetings to forest-themed vows, discover Karl and Lisa’s joyful journey Images courtesy of Hayley Szczecinski Photography These lovebirds met while working in neighbouring stores in Bournemouth, Lisa in a cosy coffee shop and Karl next door, a man with great taste in coffee and, as it turns out, love! Their connection was instant, and from their very first conversation, everything felt easy and natural. That initial spark quickly blossomed into a relationship full of laughter, adventure, and countless shared cups of coffee. Their story took a magical turn during a summer getaway to Edinburgh, where Karl proposed at sunset atop the breathtaking St Arthur’s Seat. Surrounded by sweeping views, it was an unforgettable moment that marked the beginning of a new chapter. The couple had always cherished The Crown Hotel in Blandford. Its warm atmosphere and consistently exceptional service made it the clear choice for their wedding venue. Karl comments, “We’d always had great service from the team there and, after seeing the hotel at a wedding fair, we felt this was the perfect venue for us. It had a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor space, and we were lucky enough to have the perfect day to get married outside.” The wedding was a nature lover’s dream. The earthy palette of hunter green and white echoed their passion for the outdoors. Eucalyptus, dried grasses, cherry wood, and succulents were woven throughout the celebration, from bouquets and centrepieces to the delicate green chair covers and romantic ceiling drapes. Thrifted vintage books added a whimsical, storybook element that captured the couple’s personality and creativity. Every detail was thoughtfully chosen to reflect their journey and style. Guests were treated to a delicious experience, starting with bubbly prosecco and flavourful canapés. The highlight of the wedding breakfast was undoubtedly the beef Wellington, praised by many as the best they’d ever had. As the evening progressed, guests enjoyed hearty bacon, sausage, and vegetarian baps to fuel the dancing and laughter. Lisa looked radiant in her Torinostyle Tiffany gown from Pascali Bridal Boutique in Poole. She recalled, “It was only the second dress I tried, but I knew immediately, it felt like it was made for me.” Karl wore a striking hunter green Cavalli suit with a matching boutonnière, while his groomsmen sported navy Cavalli suits from Bournemouth’s Posh Togs. The bridesmaids looked elegant in hunter green, off-the-shoulder dresses, each holding bouquets that mirrored Lisa’s. The day was filled with fun and celebration, with a DJ spinning a mixture of favourite tracks and guest requests, plus a vintage-style photo booth added light-hearted memories. A classic open-top car provided a glamorous touch and the perfect backdrop for some timeless wedding photos. But above all, the best part of the day was being surrounded by their loved ones. After months of planning, the joy of seeing everything come together meant the world to the couple. Karl says, “Everyone tells you the day flies by, and they were right. We’d relive it in a heartbeat.” YOURSELF! REAL WEDDINGS 25
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