These childhood sweethearts started dating in secondary school and never looked back! “I think our biggest attraction to each other was how much we both enjoyed life, from sport to the outdoors,” says James. He adds, “We both have many shared interests from having played in bands growing up together, and both focused on university before moving to London to live together for our jobs.” James proposed on a trip to Oslo, Norway. The original plan was a hike to lake Maridalsvannet on their 10 year anniversary of dating, which happened but not in the weather he’d wished for! They arrived at the lake but couldn’t see anything as it poured with rain. They managed to find Grefsenkollen restaurant to dry off before the sun brightened the day, and he proposed on top of a hill overlooking Oslo. It was supposed to be a big surprise, although Lauren spotted the box in his pocket the day before! SETTING THE SCENE The couple aimed to create a relaxed environment for the wedding day, which the pair’s photographer Veronika helped them achieve by explaining how guests take the lead from the newlyweds. So the lovebirds consciously decided to set the tone, which paid off on the day and showed in photos – especially in the game of cricket! When it came to finding their dream venue, Wintershill Hall was a no-brainer! The beautiful backdrop of the house, the gardens and spaces to explore ticked all the boxes. Plus, the location was one mile down the road from Durley Church, where they tied the knot surrounded by their loved ones. A marquee provided the perfect space for the garden-themed wedding breakfast and reception. The centrepieces featured vases made by the couple’s siblings, which Claudia & B filled with stunning blooms. The table plan was presented on a mirror, and each table was named after a special place to the pair, like a holiday destination. Lauren knew her aunty’s famous treats, usually made at Christmas, would make the perfect wedding favours. Her mum created boxes matching the colour scheme to present the treats. Gastro Catering provided the food for the wedding breakfast, which started with a pulled pork doughnut and a fishcake with half a quail’s egg on top for canapés. Guests then had a shared tapas starter, guinea fowl for the main and a trio of desserts for pudding. Dough & Deer provided pizzas, ensuring guests didn’t go hungry in the evening, while Clink & Drink Mobile Bars provided drinks throughout the day (the newlyweds supplied wine and prosecco for the tables). A massive hit with the guests was the dessert table full of goodies, as well as the four-tiered cake that went down a treat! Flavours included lemon and elderflower, salted caramel and apple, and vanilla and carrot cake. LOOKING THE PART The bride went to Lyn Ashworth in Burton-Upon-Trent for her dress and fell in love with a gown called May, especially the silhouette and the look of the fabric. She lengthened the train and added a detachable jacket made of 3D floral lace. When getting ready on the big day, the bride wanted a natural look and make-up artist Rebecca hit the brief! Hairstyle Katrina created a stunning up do to show off the gown and the whole look came together beautifully! The bride finished her look with a veil, blue shoes from LK Bennett for the ceremony and diamond earrings from James as a gift. In the evening, the bride took off the lace jacket, put on a 39 REAL WEDDINGS
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