Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - January/February 2026 (Issue 114)

Schoolmates Years after first meeting at school, Molly and Jamie’s love story led to a beautiful seaside celebration filled with laughter, romance and family magic Images courtesy of Stephanie Beken Photography These lovebirds knew each other from school but started speaking years later through Tinder and Instagram, where they hit it off! Fast forward in time, after many magical memories shared and their relationship blossomed even more, Jamie proposed to Molly at The Pig on the Beach on her first Mother’s Day – a beautiful moment to be treasured. SETTING THE SCENE The lovebirds tied the knot at Highcliffe Castle, a magical setting on the picturesque cliffs of the Dorset coastline, followed by a reception at Harbour Hotel Christchurch. The bride comments, “The setting was just perfect, with a beautiful outside area and showstopping views! We loved the downstairs party room, and having accommodation on-site without needing to go anywhere else was a must!” To complement the setting, the pair opted for a sage colour scheme seen throughout the day. When it came to the wedding breakfast, Molly and Jamie worked with their stylist and fell in love with tall centrepieces paired with flowers to bring the space to life. The result was effortlessly elegant. FOOD FOR THOUGHT Food is essential for any wedding to ensure guests don’t go hungry, so the couple ensured there was something delicious to enjoy throughout the day. This started with canapés as loved ones arrived at the venue. For the main meal, ham hock was served for starters, followed by beef Wellington, the best the couple has ever tasted, and finished with a strawberry and fresh cream shortbread. It didn’t stop there, as guests could help themselves to the sweet table and tuck into some cookies too. And we can’t forget about the beautiful cake from Eden Bakes! Evening food consisted of pizza as well as bacon and brie baguettes to ensure there was something for everyone. LOOKING THE PART The bride wore the most beautiful dress called Eridana, designed by the talented team at Milla Nova and purchased through Chameleon Bride. “I knew straight away it was the one,” says Molly. “I was five months pregnant, so I thought I would struggle to feel good in any dress. But the second I put it on, I just knew. I thought, if I love it pregnant, I’ll love it even more when I’m back to myself!” Jamie, alongside his groomsmen, wore dapper suits from Moss, while the bridesmaids wore Bridesmaid by JB gowns. TIME TO CELEBRATE To keep guests entertained throughout the day, the lovebirds hired a violinist for the ceremony to add another layer of romance and make it extra special. They also had a band performing throughout the day, plus a saxophonist and DJ to keep the celebrations going. A highlight for the couple was watching their two-year-old son boogie the night away on the dancefloor — he was so happy and really enjoyed himself! TO SOULMATES REAL WEDDINGS 33

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