heading to a local pub for a good luck whiskey, where he was congratulated and warned ‘it’s not too late’, which didn’t help with the nerves! He says, “I was amazed when I saw Abbie walk up the aisle, all my worries about speaking in front of everyone disappeared.” The ceremony was beautiful and very personal. Abbie says, “It really felt like it was just me, George and the registrar. After the vows, we all stood on the steps outside the hall for a photo and cars were honking their horns – it was amazing.” She adds, “We went with our photographer to get photos by the sea, and we were congratulated and kissed by so many people walking past; it felt very special that they were happy we’d got married in their town.” NEAREST AND DEAREST A funny moment from the day was when the pair’s dog Jeff, who was there during the ceremony, saw the bride and wanted to get to her – he was whimpering at the back of the ceremony. Once the pair walked out of the room, they were taken into a side room dead opposite him, and the couple’s friend had no choice but to loosen the lead. Jeff came bounding over, wrapping Abbie up with the lead – everyone found it hilarious and very typical Jeff! The best man, Onur, got very drunk and was so funny. Abbie says, “He went from shy and quiet to Greek dancing in the middle of everyone dancing! He also turned our first dance off as he was playing the song on his phone and wanted to film us dancing, silly fool! Luckily we love him and found it all hilarious – he really added an element to our day. “Our best friends (husband and wife) Andy and Sarah were also amazing on the day. They had everything organised with the extra food and drinks we had prepared, making sure everything was going to plan and ensuring we were all having a good time – they’re our best friends for a reason!” The couple’s photographer, Holly Stead, went above and beyond on the day to make the pair feel at ease. The bride says, “We’ve never been around a photographer who was so bubbly and excited about their job. Some guests assumed she was a family friend because of how warm she was with us, which shows she did an amazing job.” HONEYMOON After the big day, the pair stayed in Swanage for a week with Jeff and spent time relaxing and going for walks on the beach. Abbie says, “We stayed in a lovely little cottage in the town called The Nook with a log burner and low ceilings. We went our favourite spots and stopped at The Greyhound Pub for lunch, which had amazing views of Corfe Castle. The highlight was being on Shell Bay paddling in the sea and watching our dog running around – he’s a rescue and it’s always a joy to see him happy. We then had a week at home doing some DIY and relaxing.” The couple has a trip to New York booked for next year, where they’ll have their main honeymoon. 30
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