These lovebirds met at work 17 years ago and from the moment they crossed paths, they knew there was something special between them. A year later, their journey took the next step when they got engaged. Ben proposed on Christmas morning during a visit to Rhi’s parents’ home. While out for a peaceful walk along a path once shared with Rhi’s late dog, Taz, Ben popped the question. The bride recalls, “The spot was where Taz once fell into the lake and Ben had to save him – so it held incredible significance for me.” “When we arrived back at my parents’, I didn’t say a word because I was worried about what they’d think, as we’d only been together a year. However, it turned out Ben had already asked my dad’s permission and spoken to my mum about it, so they thought my silence meant I was saying no!” SETTING THE SCENE When it came to finding the perfect setting, it was all about compromise. Ben wanted to tie the knot in a church, which Rhi wasn’t too keen on. However, they decided on the perfect setting, one with a castle-like feel that just felt right and held deep sentimental value for them both. Ben remembered visiting there as a child with his late grandad Edwin, who also married Ben’s nan at the same church. The couple also used to take Rhi’s late nan there with their children for picnics and dog walks, making it a truly meaningful place. Following the ceremony, the newlyweds celebrated with loved ones at Havant Rugby Football Club. When it came to decorating the venue, they left it to the experts and their amazing stylist brought their vision to life. The bride recalls, “I remember saying to the team, ‘Help me!’ as I just wanted to keep everything simple and elegant. We went with blossom trees as centrepieces and tied in the sage green with chair bows. The rest was left to them, my only instruction was to make it look fabulous and they did!” Guests were welcomed with complimentary bottles of wine on the tables and a well-stocked bar offering drinks of their choice. For the meal, the couple chose a sit-down American-style buffet, followed later in the evening by an incredible cheeseboard and antipasti selection. STYLE NOTES The bride looked stunning in a Morilee gown, though finding the one took time. “It was the hardest decision ever! I must have gone to at least six shops, trying on 50-plus dresses, and I was about to give up when the shop assistant pulled out the 40
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=