Meeting at college a decade ago, Yasmin and Sam became friends in the class they shared together. “Our relationship grew over a few years and over many adventures,” she reflects.
Sam proposed at sunset on a beach in Bude with a special furry friend present: the couple’s dog, Earl. “However, Earl decided to go for a run just before Sam asked, which definitely did not help Sam’s nerves!” she laughs.
Yasmin and Sam set about seeking a wedding venue and Badgers Holt, a gorgeously rustic venue in the heart of Dartmoor, could not have been more ideal for the moor-loving pair. They filled the venue with a glorious array of purple wildflowers. “We absolutely love Dartmoor and just wanted to bring some Dartmoor and its colours into our wedding,” explains Yasmin. “The venue was perfect for this!”
The couple took their vows before a breathtaking arch of foliage and flowers in every shade of purple. Flanked by bridesmaids in dusky pink, Yasmin accessorised her elegantly sleek gown with a bouquet of purple blooms that complemented the dainty florals in her hair.
Sam’s grey tweed suit, finished with pink and purple accents, echoed the relaxed mood as well as the nature-inspired palette. “We had our beautiful retired greyhound at our ceremony and throughout the day, as he is a big part of our lives and we had to involve him,” says Yasmin.
A colourful pink confetti moment and group photos followed while guests mingled in the tree-filled grounds on the banks of the River Dart. Settling at tables strewn with foliage and flowers, they feasted on vegetable gyozas, pork belly and scallops followed by trio of beef samosas, bonbons and fillet. Dessert brought more delectable options, comprising brownies with ice cream, sticky toffee pudding and Eton mess.
After the feast, the newlyweds ventured onto the Tor-dotted heights of Dartmoor for photos with their photographer Hannah, who knew the local area well and could advise the couple on where to go. “My favourite moment was when we got to go up to the moors for some more intimate photos and we were so lucky to have a beautiful sunset over Dartmoor,” says Yasmin. “In fact, we saw a horse give birth to a foal – it was so beautiful to see!”
Heading back across the moor beneath a full moon, the couple returned to cut the cake, a pretty confection adorned with pink and purple flowers above a tower of cupcakes, and then the dancing began, as Yasmin and Sam danced the night away with their loved ones.
When it comes to the newlyweds’ top tips for busily planning engaged couples, their advice is simple. “Try to enjoy the process and not to stress about the little things – it will all work out in the end!”
Photography Hannah Wilde Photography hannah-wilde.com
Venue Badgers Holt badgersholtdartmoor.co.uk
Dress Abigail's Collection abigailscollection.co.uk
Suit The Groom’s Room abigailscollection.co.uk/grooms-room
Hair Toni Gogola tonigogola.co.uk
Make-up Emilia Bond
Flowers Milli Fleur millifleur.com
Cake Coastal Cakes Cornwall facebook.com/coastalcakescornwall
Stationery Tree of Hearts treeofhearts.co.uk/wedding-advice
Entertainment Boden Smith facebook.com/boden.smith
Mr Flexxx facebook.com/misterflexxx
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