ever after Happily Opulent romance came to life at Rose Castle in Vanessa and Ben’s stunning wedding Images courtesy of Alexandria French Photography Vanessa and Ben met in 2024 at The Elite Awards in Carlisle. Ben was performing alongside Boyz on Block, a last-minute addition after Boyzlife were forced to cancel. As Vanessa reflects, “If Brian and Keith hadn’t stepped back, Ben wouldn’t have been on that stage – and we might never have met. After the show, we found ourselves chatting, nothing planned or forced, just two people connecting in a room full of energy and celebration. That conversation sparked something real and everything changed from there.” Since that night, the couple have packed a lifetime into a single year – from award shows and festivals to exploring Spain and Dubai together. Then, in February 2025, during an unforgettable trip to New York, Ben asked Vanessa if she would be his wife. When looking for a wedding venue, the couple instantly fell in love with Rose Castle, a picturesque venue steeped in history and surrounded by rolling Cumbrian hills that radiate timeless romance. They embraced an opulence-inspired theme, selecting lavish floral arrangements with a modern twist by Vandella Flowers. With music playing such an important role in their lives, the couple named their tables after musicians who were attending the celebration. Guests also left with beautifully curated gift bags containing luxurious AMEN fragrances, undereye patches, a Skinade collagen drink, summer fans, and branded tissues. Vanessa chose two dresses for the big day. Her first was a Berta gown from Knutsford Wedding Gallery, accessorised with her mother’s pearl necklace and Tiffany earrings. Her second look was a Milla Nova design, also from Knutsford Wedding Gallery. Ben opted for a sharp, stylish suit from Masuit, while the bridesmaids completed the vision in yellow gowns from Odd Muse. From the moment guests arrived at the castle gates, they were immersed in the magic of the day. Vanessa shares, “As our guests entered the grand courtyard of Rose Castle, the stirring sound of Scottish bagpipes, played by Callum Scottish Piper, set an unforgettable tone of elegance and heritage. It was a breathtaking opening scene – the kind of welcome that instantly transported everyone into the romance of the day.” Following the ceremony, guests gathered in the castle gardens for cocktail hour, where the smooth, soulful sounds of Shades of Sax drifted through the summer air. The atmosphere was vibrant yet relaxed – Champagne flowing, laughter echoing, and lawn games such as mini golf, giant Jenga, and ring toss adding a playful touch to the refined surroundings. As the sun began to set, Jonathan Bremner serenaded guests into the evening with his rich vocals, creating an intimate, romantic mood that seamlessly transitioned into a night of celebration. Once dinner concluded, the energy soared as DJ Rick Live took over the decks, delivering a fusion of live mixing, vocals, and party anthems that kept everyone on their feet. Then came a truly unforgettable sequence – a star-studded lineup of performances from some of the UK’s most iconic artists. The groom opened with Turn Around (Phats & Small), followed by performances from Keith Duffy and Shane Lynch (Boyzone), Abz Love (Five), Bradley McIntosh (S Club 7), and Dane Bowers (Another Level), transforming the wedding into a private concert filled with pop nostalgia and electric joy. To close the night, the sky lit up with a dazzling drone show by FlightShows – a breathtaking spectacle choreographed to music, celebrating love, unity, and the magic of the day. Behind the scenes, Explosive Productions Ltd ensured the staging, lighting, and sound were nothing short of world-class, turning the castle grounds into a festival of love and light. Vanessa and Ben’s day overflowed with emotion, laughter, and music, with friends and family travelling from seven different countries to share in their joy. Vanessa adds, “Seeing loved ones from all over the world come together under one roof, in a castle, no less, made it feel even more magical and meaningful. One of the most touching moments came right after the ceremony, when Marie from White Heart Doves UK released a pair of beautiful white doves into the sky, symbolising eternal love, peace, and new beginnings. As they soared above the castle towers, there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. From the moment Ben saw me walking down the aisle to dancing under the summer sky surrounded by our guests, every second felt like a dream. The atmosphere was electric yet heartfelt – a perfect reflection of us.” REAL WEDDINGS 17
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