Your East Midlands Wedding - Jun/Jul 2019 (Issue 32)

REAL WEDDINGS 39  with silver shoes and handbags and Shane and his groomsmen wore navy blue jackets, waistcoat and trousers and black bow ties. OOZING HAPPINESS The bridal bouquet consisted of sunflowers and gypsophila wrapped in tweed and the bridesmaids had similar arrangements of just gypsophila. “Sunflowers are such a wonderful touch. They ooze happiness in my eyes and are so vibrant and classy,” says Lauren. The table plan was carefully thought out with the rustic theme in mind and was based on a mixture of personalities and both families. Guest names were printed on brown cardboard that was decorated with white lace. This look continued throughout the décor. For the centrepieces a mixture of different sized jars containing sunflowers, gypsophila, candles, stones and fairylights were placed on log bases and the favours were personalised brown paper bags that were used to create a pick ‘n’ mix for guests to enjoy. FROM THE HEART Shane’s aunty created the four-tiered naked cake to suit the look of the day. “The flavours were vanilla with traditional buttercream filling, chocolate, lemon with lemon curd buttercream and the top tier was a chocolate orange sponge with chocolate filling. It was then decorated with a variety of fresh berries and was stood on a log. It tasted beautiful and we would have eaten it all if we could!” says Lauren. When it came to choosing a favourite part of the day, the speeches topped the list. “Both Shane and my father did a wonderful job at delivering heartfelt speeches and those delivered by our groomsmen were hilarious. There was nothing but laughter, smiles and tears. If we could relive that moment of being in one room with all of those we cherish most to hear such wonderful things, we would in an instant.” JOY, LOVE AND LAUGHTER A friend of the duo offered to DJ into the evening. “He played music to cater for all ages, eras and genre. Everyone was happy and he kept the dancefloor flowing all night,” Lauren recalls. “We can both agree that what stood out to us was the feeling that we both had throughout the day. We hadn’t seen some family members for years and yet there we were surrounded by those we loved,” says Lauren. “Everyone could feel the love in the room. The atmosphere of our joy was infectious, and it was amazing to see everyone having a wonderful time.” Lauren’s top tip: Invest in a wonderful photographer who’s able to capture those moments you cherish the most. It’s worth every penny.