After a novel Christmas Day proposal which saw Aleesha rummaging in a box full of crisps in which Phil had planted a ring, the couple set their sights on the magical island of Lundy as the secluded and scenic backdrop to their wedding celebrations.
The couple officially tied the knot in Barnstaple registry office during an intimate family ceremony. The following day, the couple met with family members on Ilfracombe pier and set off for Lundy where preparations for their wedding guests' arrival began in earnest. Aleesha and Phil started their celebrations in style the next day by throwing a pirate-themed night in the Marisco Tavern.
In keeping with the beautiful landscape of Lundy, the couple opted for a rustic theme and a mellow palette of yellow, mauve and purple. Aleesha sourced silk flowers, second hand teapots and flower jugs to scatter throughout the venue as beautiful adornments.
A stirring sense of setting and a lively party atmosphere characterised the wedding day. Ceilidh dancing on the lawn went down a storm, while live band The Dambusters performed during the church ceremony and the evening party in the Marisco Tavern. "They provided an amazing atmosphere,' says Aleesha. Continuing with a traditional Lundy theme, food was a locally sourced and delicious feast of potted crab followed by Lundy roast lamb and apple pie with custard.
The magical wedding day was followed by a rather dramatic departure from the island. "The weather on Lundy is ever changing and, on the way home, unfortunately the Oldenburg was unable to sail. This meant that all the guests had to be shipped off the island by helicopter one by one, which was amazing and scary at the same time," recalls Aleesha. "Phil and I photographed the guests as they boarded the helicopter, which was fun!"
The newlyweds enjoyed a romantic honeymoon in Italy of two parts: a week on the stunning Amalfi Coast and another on Ischia, a gorgeous island off the coast of Naples.
Unable to cite just one favourite moment of her magical island wedding, Aleesha praises the whole experience: "I was blessed to be able to get married on Lundy a very special place and getting married was an amazing experience in itself." As for advice, she comments, "Enjoy the planning and don't get too stressed!"
The venue
Lundy Island, North Devon
01271 863636 www.lundyisland.co.uk
The dress
Pronuptia
www.pronuptia.co.uk
Photography
Matt Fryer
07725 737732 www.mattfryer.co.uk
Copyright WED Magazine 2012
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