OF LOVE Garden An enchanting English garden theme set the tone for Helen and Ben’s wedding at The Ferry House Images courtesy of Burst Photos Helen and Ben met like many modern couples, online through a dating app. Their connection was instant, and over time their bond only grew deeper. Ben proposed during a magical city break in Berlin. “It was our last night, and we’d managed to get last-minute evening tickets to visit the dome and roof terrace of the Reichstag Building,” says Helen. “Ben asked me to marry him just outside, a few minutes after midnight, making it Valentine’s Day. I was overjoyed and excited that we could look forward to planning more of our bucket-list trips together.” The couple dreamed of a venue surrounded by nature, with an outdoor ceremony setting. Helen explains, “The Ferry House felt remote enough to enjoy the scenic views over the water’s edge. The backdrop and the oak gazebo made it an easy choice for us. A major factor was having an all-in-one venue with accommodation. There are rooms on-site and cottages nearby, which was exactly what our guests needed.” To make The Ferry House feel their own, Helen and Ben chose an English garden theme with soft pastel tones and an abundance of wildflowers. “Our florists, JoJo Blooms and Sue Davies Flowers and Garden, were recommended to us by my work colleague who had seen some of their displays,” recalls Helen. “Our conversations with the florists shaped some of the biggest styling decisions. They understood my vision perfectly and made it even more beautiful than I’d imagined.” Their theme continued into their cake design. “I showed Greta from Gauer Sugarcraft some reference pictures of cakes with oversized sugar craft flowers cascading and twisting down the sides,” says the bride. “She liaised with the florists on colours and my bouquet style, so everything matched perfectly. It looked incredible, and the flavours and texture were exquisite.” Helen wore a Stella York gown called Sandrine from Isabella Grace Bridal. “The gown made me feel elegant and modern, and I loved the details of the train and the side split, so I could show off my shoes,” she says. “I used to be a footwear designer, so shoes are part of my personality. It even had pockets for my glasses. I was dreading trying on dresses, as I usually struggle to find clothes I like, but this was so easy! I went with my gut and not my head – a bit like when you fall in love!” Ben wore a navy suit from Skopes, paired with a crisp white shirt and a patterned Liberty tie. To entertain their loved ones, the couple invited talented friends to perform. Heather Broderick sang beautifully, followed by the James Harrison Band, who played acoustic guitar and double bass. The Ferry House supplied lawn games throughout the day and a DJ in the evening to keep the celebrations in full swing. There were countless unforgettable moments throughout their day, and the couple found it difficult to choose just one. “One of the biggest was meeting Ben and our daughter at the barn entrance before walking down the aisle together, then the rush of emotion seeing all the guests and the beautiful flowers,” says Helen. “It was overwhelming to feel so much love all at once. The highlight was truly the ceremony itself and making our vows to one another. There were so many emotional moments, the readings by family members and the speeches, but I also laughed so much throughout the day. I laughed all through the first dance performing our little choreographed routine, even though no one noticed we only had four steps on repeat! Luckily, our daughter saved us by joining in. I also treasured the peaceful moments with Ben when we had our couple shots, especially walking along the water’s edge as evening fell – the sound of the disco in the distance, and just a quiet moment for the two of us in nature.” REAL WEDDINGS 33
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