A sun-kissed celebration Cloe and Chris’ relaxed wedding at Brockwell Hall brought a slice of Italy to their doorstep Images courtesy of Inez Gordon Chris proposed while on holiday in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to celebrate Cloe’s 30th birthday. “The whole thing was really low-key and very us,” Cloe shares. “I was opening birthday cards in bed and saved Chris for last. Inside, he’d written the sweetest message, ending with, ‘...and so I felt it was time I really locked this down.’ I looked at him, totally confused, and then he pulled out the most beautiful ring and asked me to marry him!” They spent the morning in their own bubble, sipping Champagne by the pool before sharing the news with loved ones. The couple’s wedding goal was a relaxed, joyful day celebrating ten years together in Brixton and Herne Hill. “It was really important that the day reflected our world,” says Cloe. “So we chose local suppliers we genuinely love and places we visit regularly.” They opted for a summer cocktail vibe with Italian influences, featuring fizz, classic aperitifs, a sharing-style feast, and a pizza van that stayed open into the night. Luckily, the weather made it feel like a slice of Italy in South London. Having lived near Brockwell Park for more than a decade, it had always been central to the couple’s lives. When Brockwell Hall reopened for weddings, they were the first official booking. “The team was super helpful throughout the planning process,” Cloe says. As a designer, the bride created hand-painted invites, the wedding website, and candlestick holders with help from friends. “I wanted it to reflect the laid-back, joyful spirit of the day,” she says, and she used soft watercolours, hand-lettered calligraphy, and illustrations inspired by the venue. Flowers were seasonal, with pastel peonies, white stocks, and wildflower-style arrangements by Flower Lady Elaine. Chris’ mum made the elderflower sponge cake with lemon curd and Swiss meringue buttercream, topped with dried wildflowers. Food focused on fresh, seasonal sharing dishes. “We worked with the lovely team at West 16th to create a Mediterraneaninspired menu that felt really personal,” Cloe explains. Canapés included blue cheese blinis and smoked mackerel on rye, while the family-style feast featured smoked trout tart, beluga lentils with roast squash, and new potato salad with wild garlic. Drinks came from local favourites like Chin Chin wines, a Sicilian red from Wild & Lees, and Bullfinch beers. Decorations were minimal, letting Brockwell Hall shine, with pops of orange and green on the tables. The lovebirds’ favourite moment? A surreal midnight ride home through the park on a golf buggy. Cloe wore a silk gown by Alexandra Grecco, the first one she tried at Lovely Bride London. “The cut was elegant and understated, with a simplicity that matched the relaxed day,” she says. The bride even had scrunchies made from the surplus silk for her mum and maidsof-honour. Accessories were minimal: pearl drop earrings from Lily & Roo, a delicate diamond necklace from Chris, a classic tulle veil from a friend, and silver metallic Jimmy Choo mules for dancing. Her makeup was soft and natural by Becky Flynn, and her hair styled in effortless waves by Hanna at G & H Hair London. “It felt completely surreal! Suddenly, everything became real, and I couldn’t wait to walk down the aisle to see Chris.” The groom wore a bespoke sandcoloured suit by Zebel, in a linen, cotton, and silk blend, with a vintage floral Yves Saint Laurent tie for a pop of colour. The groomsmen wore relaxed linen suits with matching buttonholes, while the maids-of-honour wore buttery yellow dresses. A band kicked off the evening, and the dancefloor stayed packed with indie classics and noughties throwbacks. Though unplanned, their first dance happened spontaneously to Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, starting slow before erupting into a full-on dance party. Later, Chris’ groomsman Cosmo surprised them with a DJ set, followed by a garage set from their friend Sam, which were both hits with guests! “The day was full of love and gratitude,” Cloe reflects. “We felt so lucky to be surrounded by our incredible friends and family. Seeing everyone meet and mingle was really special. Most of the day was spent outdoors, eating and drinking in the sunshine.” The couple was grateful for the amazing suppliers who helped bring it all together. A standout moment? Chris’ best man, Adam, shared a heartfelt speech that’s still remembered by guests. The entire wedding party helped set up the venue the day before, making it a true team effort. REAL WEDDINGS 29
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