Your South Wales Wedding - Page number 31 - July/August 2021 (Issue 80)

REAL WEDDINGS 31 A nnabel and Gavin met at work 10 years ago. “We were in different departments, but Gavin asked me out on a date,” says Annabel. “I wasn’t sure at first about dating a coworker, but I decided to give him a chance and accepted the offer.” Gavin proposed in September 2018. “We were enjoying a staycation in Bideford, Devon, with our beloved rescue dog,” shares the bride. “On the final day, we walked the coastal path to Clovelly, and when we arrived at a beautiful beach called Mouthmill, he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was perfect.” SETTING THE SCENE “We made a list of requirements that our venue had to have, and St Tewdrics House ticked all the boxes,” Annabel recalls. “It was the only property we visited, and we booked it the same day! We didn’t want to be restricted by caterers, drinks packages and partner suppliers, so the flexibility they offered was really appealing. We also loved the exclusively, on-site accommodation and that it was dog friendly.” For their favours, the happy couple created gift bags. “Each one contained goodies that we splurged on when our reception was cancelled,” explains the bride. “Our guest received a special pin badge from The Stroke Association, a charity close to our hearts, Welshcakes from Calon Lân Cakes, a candle, handmade face mask and bottle of Prosecco. We really wanted to spoil our friends and family and thank them for all their support and for attending our wedding.” “Catherine Gray Flowers was super helpful,” Annabel adds. “I took a swatch of the bridesmaids’ dresses to her workshop and some vague colour ideas. She then designed idea boards and produced something absolutely perfect. I knew I wanted colourful blooms, and we were so happy with them. She also accommodated our last minute order increase.” Annabel and Gavin purchased their big-day bake from DeVoli Cakes. “We found them at an event at St Tewdrics House,” says the bride. “Her designs were showstopping, and we were drawn to her amazing sugar flowers! She designed our cake during the lockdown with limited input from us, but it was exactly what we wanted. Since our reception was cancelled, we had it delivered and set up in our kitchen instead.” “We’d been admiring the work of Lumi Event and booked them right away,” shares Annabel. “Unfortunately, we weren’t able to have all the finishing touches we wanted, but they were incredibly flexible and understanding and worked with our adjusted plans. The lighting was so romantic and our ‘wish you were here’ board featuring photos of all the guests who couldn’t come was a meaningful touch.” DRESSED TO IMPRESS “My dress was called Georgia from Stephanie Allin Couture,” Annabel recalls. “From the moment I saw her designs, I knew I was going to get my gown from her. Her dresses are incredible quality, simple but unique and fit to perfection. I didn’t originally want a ballgown, but it was really light, and I felt like the best version of me in it! I was also very keen to get a dress from a British/Welsh designer as I wanted to support local companies where possible. I accessorised with a matching veil by Helen Martin. I didn’t intend to get a long veil, but the pandemic caused chaos to the rest of our plans, and since my accessories were a decision totally within my control, I went for it! Stephanie also added a custom foldaway lapel that I could pin my MBE insignia to for the ceremony. My hairpiece was a bespoke design from Rachel Sokha. Rachel worked with me to create something that perfectly complimented my dress and veil. It featured subtle gold leaves and white flowers with pearl centres and was breathtaking. I borrowed earrings from my nan, who was unable to attend as she was shielding. It was special to me to be able to wear them – they were beautiful but also made me feel like she was with me on the day.” Gavin chose a tailored suit from Hugo Boss in Cardiff. “The team helped him pick it and coordinated his tie with the bridesmaids’ dresses,” explains the bride. “They were fantastic and made the most classic and flattering design that we will treasure for years to come. The best man and groomsmen wore two-piece suits and ties from ASOS in the same shade.” “The bridesmaids opted for a gown called Edie by TH&TH,” adds Annabel. “We had to shop for the dresses during the lockdown, so it was a challenge, but the 