WONDER A winter Keith and Alison created the ultimate boho-chic winter wedding Images courtesy of Nicky’s Photography Keith and Alison were at school together where Alison used to admire Keith’s basketball skills and dashing looks! “We reconnected 20 years later on Facebook,” shares Alison. “Keith messaged first, and it grew from there. Our first date was a walk in the park, and we instantly connected, laughing and chatting for hours.” For a romantic winter proposal, Keith chose to book a stay at the Kent icon, Leeds Castle. “He’d been planning a special proposal for a year leading up to the date,” recalls Alison. “We arrived at Leeds Castle and, after a meal and a walk, he’d had so many opportunities to propose. When he hadn’t asked, I thought I’d let my imagination run away with me! At the end of the Christmas light trail, he dropped to one knee beneath the cathedral light arch and popped the question. It was very romantic and incredibly magical! “I love Christmas and winter, and Keith proposed on 21st December 2024. We were King and Queen of the castle for the evening.” The big date was set: 14th November 2025, with The Vines of Rochester setting the scene. The Vines ticked every box for the cosy, rustic yet classy and elegant vibe the couple wanted. “We decided on a winter boho-chic wedding and were hoping for a cold winter’s day,” shares Alison. “It rained, but that didn’t matter to us. In fact, it made the pictures even more beautiful.” Opting for three long reception tables, the couple chose winter garlands, fairylights and tall candles as centrepieces to emphasise the cosy seasonal theme. The florals, designed by Popples Posies, included pinecones and white roses. “Helen is amazing and helped me create my winter flowers,” adds Alison. The flowers complemented Alison’s dress perfectly. “I’ve always loved the boho look and decided it would fit with my theme. Kiss the Bride in Rochester were a great help in choosing the perfect dress, and I instantly loved it,” recalls Alison. Keith wore a four-piece navy suit with a tan check, paired with a rustic tie and matching handkerchief. The bridesmaids complemented both the groom and the theme in brown cowlneck dresses with shoulder wraps. To entertain guests, the couple booked evening band Crazy Water Common, featuring banjo and guitar performances. “We found them at Gurkha Fire one evening, and they were exactly what we were looking for. The banjo and guitar fitted perfectly with the boho vibe,” adds Alison. “The guests danced the evening away, and the band even played a song Keith had written for me. They were fantastic, and guests have since asked how they can see them perform again.” Determined to enjoy every moment, the couple made a conscious effort to take it all in. “We kept stepping away together to fully immerse ourselves in the day,” recalls Alison. “Getting ready was very special. The Vines really helped me feel calm and gave me a lovely room to get ready in with the girls. “We went off for photos around Rochester Castle and in The Vines’ grounds after the ceremony. It was magical, even though it was raining the photos are fabulous. Nicky is incredibly talented and made us all feel relaxed. “Keith’s brother delivered a very funny speech, completely at their father’s expense, sharing some rather embarrassing stories from their childhood that had the room in fits of laughter, leaving Keith’s poor dad mortified and his mum giggling. “Julie, the wedding coordinator, was fabulous. In fact, all the team at The Vines were faultless and went above and beyond to make everything perfect for us.” REAL WEDDINGS 33
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