LOCKDOWN Love in A romance that began with daily video calls during lockdown led to a heartfelt wedding filled with personal touches for Stefan and Jorden Images courtesy of Samantha Jones Photography Stefan and Jorden first met on a dating app just before the UK entered lockdown in 2020. What began as a simple connection quickly became something much deeper during a time when the world had suddenly slowed down. “We would FaceTime every single day,” Stefan recalls. “We always said that if we could make it through that strange time together, then we could make it through anything.” When restrictions allowed them to finally meet, their connection grew stronger. “When we met in person, it just felt natural,” says Stefan. “Everything stemmed from there.” Two years later, in 2022, Jorden planned a romantic proposal during a trip to the Isle of Wight. What began as a peaceful walk along the beach at sunset quickly turned into one of the most unforgettable moments of their lives. “We were walking along the beach taking pictures together when he suddenly got down on one knee,” Stefan remembers. “He dropped the ring in the sand three times before asking me to marry him,” he laughs. “But it made the moment even more special.” When it came to choosing their wedding venue, Stefan and Jorden wanted somewhere meaningful. They chose Judd’s Folly Hotel, a place that held a deeply personal connection for Stefan. “It’s where my grandad’s wake was held,” Stefan explains. “It meant a lot to have our wedding there. I knew he couldn’t be there in person, but I felt he would be there in spirit because it was where we celebrated his life.” For their November wedding, the couple chose a warm and elegant colour palette of sage green and burgundy red. Personal touches helped bring their vision to life throughout the venue. Stefan and his auntie Sharon created the centrepieces themselves, while the flowers were provided by Whittingtons. The couple also prepared thoughtful favours for their guests. “I might have gone a little overboard,” Stefan shares. “I had about eight favours for each person, but they all had sentimental meanings behind them.” They also added handmade details, including their own wedding sign and a crisp wall. On the morning of the wedding, Stefan shared a relaxed start to the day with his best woman at Judd’s Folly Hotel. They enjoyed a continental breakfast before the celebrations began. “We made sure to drink plenty of water and Lucozade to stay hydrated,” Stefan says. “Although that was in between a couple of glasses of prosecco and Champagne.” After the ceremony and photographs, guests were welcomed with a selection of canapés, including options for those with dietary requirements. For the big day, Stefan wore an Alexandre of England tailored bottle-green twill jacket and matching trousers from Suit Direct. “I knew it was the one as soon as I saw it online,” Stefan says. “When I tried it on in store, I just fell in love with it. The colours were perfect, very autumnal and wintery, which is exactly what we had both envisioned.” Jorden and the groomsmen complemented the look in Jodrell Berry suits from Skopes. The ceremony was led by celebrant Karina from Simply Ceremonies UK, who worked closely with the couple to bring their love story to life. “We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better person to marry us,” Stefan says. “She took our story and vows and created a ceremony that felt completely personal. It was picture perfect.” Despite the chilly weather, guests stayed outside for photos, determined to celebrate the couple’s special day. “Even though we were practically sinking into the ground from the cold, everyone stayed to be part of the pictures,” Stefan laughs. Looking back, Stefan and Jorden offer simple advice for couples planning their own weddings. “Start planning early and don’t leave things until the last minute,” Stefan suggests. “Send invitations out in plenty of time and ask for a menu tasting so you know what the food will be like.” REAL WEDDINGS 25
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=