ELEGANCE Rustic Leah and Simon opted for a moss green colour palette for their nuptials at Llanerch Images courtesy of Geraint Roberts Photography Leah and Simon met at school, but after losing contact, they later reconnected through a dating app. Leah tells us, “We always laugh about the fact that modern romance can start with a swipe – proof that finding your lifelong partner can happen in the most unexpected ways.” Simon proposed in August 2019 at Symonds Yat, one of the couple’s favourite spots overlooking the river. He brought a picnic hamper filled with Leah’s favourite foods and a bottle of bubbly to celebrate. It was an intimate and meaningful moment that was perfect for them. The couple chose Llanerch as their venue. Leah explains, “It felt personal and homely without being over the top. Their team made everything stress-free, and the food and wine packages were included, which took the pressure out of planning.” She especially loved the transition from The Calon Lodge to the marquee for the wedding breakfast. The vineyard surroundings were stunning, and the couple loved enjoying wines grown on-site. From the very first visit, they knew the setting perfectly matched the atmosphere they wanted for their day. Leah adds, “It’s also a place we can return to for afternoon tea, drinks, or overnight stays, which makes it extra special. The fact that it’s dog-friendly meant our chihuahua, Lilly, could join us too.” They chose a rustic elegance theme with a moss green colour palette to reflect the venue’s surroundings. “We incorporated lots of greenery, pampas grass, eucalyptus, and white roses,” shares Leah. “Be Our Guest styled the venue and created our signage, making the process simple and enjoyable with their wide range of options.” For their food, the couple enjoyed a menu prepared by Llanerch paired with wines produced at the vineyard. Leah continues, “It was a wonderful way to enjoy food and drink that were both local and memorable.” Leah wore an Elysee gown from Eva Ashley Bridal Lounge in Tonypandy. She knew it was the one as soon as she tried on the full-lace, long-sleeved design and felt truly bridal. Simon opted for a classic black three-piece tuxedo, while the groomsmen matched in identical suits. The bridesmaids wore green satin cowl-neck dresses from Six Stories, perfectly complementing the overall theme. “Llanerch gave guests the freedom to relax and enjoy the day,” recalls Leah. “Entertainment included a live band called Sir Juke in the early evening, followed by plenty of drinks and dancing. Since it was the hottest day of the year, our guests also made use of the outdoor vineyard spaces. For me, the highlight of the day was marrying my best friend, but an unforgettable moment was when our photographer, Geraint Roberts, suggested we have our first dance in the vineyard at sunset. It felt completely private, like it was just the two of us, and it created the most magical photographs.” Leah and Simon’s top tips for wedding planning include starting early, as suppliers get booked up quickly. Leah adds, “Don’t overthink the small details or worry about what others think – the day is about the two of you. Avoid overspending on tiny touches because guests won’t notice them. Instead, focus on staying present and spending the day together as bride and groom. Take in every moment, because the day goes by far too quickly.” REAL WEDDINGS 25
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