From records as table names that guests could get up and play throughout dinner to old books for menus and an old copy of 'Wuthering Heights' used to make confetti cones and a decoupage bar sign, the event beautifully captured each of their personalities. Their love of gardening was reflected in the planters and buckets of bulbs used as the altar for the ceremony and the forget-me-not seed favours. The pair's interest in photography was even referenced via Polaroid-style photo place settings and the guest book, which saw guests taking Instax mini photos in the DIY photo booth and pegging them onto ribbons hanging between the trees.
Westcott House hosted the weekend of fun and personality-filled celebrations. "The stunning grounds meant that we could have the outdoor wedding we really wanted in a private space. We had a 33ft yurt as our main dining area and dance space, with a 24ft bar and chill-out yurt attached," comments Amy.
Amy dazzled in a glamorous lace gown, while a blue palette - in all its shades - carried through the bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen's ties. The humanist ceremony was held in a circle and took the form of a traditional hand fasting. "Family members and friends came up to tie our hands together with ribbons as we said our vows. We exchanged rings and when the ceremony was complete, Ben's dad read a final blessing. We then 'jumped the broom' to leap into our new life together!" reflects Amy.
The celebrations kicked off with a homemade Prosecco picnic followed by a parade round the gardens to the dinner yurt, complete with a musical accompaniment from friends. Dinner comprised focaccia bread with deli-style nibbles followed by a hog roast. Another personal touch, Amy's aunties and mum made the special sherry trifle pudding using her Gran's family recipe.
The evening saw marshmallows toasted over open fires, live band Blue Attic playing a collection of hits and a DJ friend keeping the party vibe alive until guests retired in the early hours to camp in bell tents scattered throughout the grounds.
"Don't be afraid of moving away from convention and doing it your own way, advises Amy. "Putting a wedding together from scratch can be daunting but it is so rewarding to see your vision come to life. We had so much fun in the lead up to the wedding, and it meant that every part of our wedding was a true reflection of our personalities. We'll treasure those memories of the preparation just as much as those from the day itself."
Photography Nova Wedding Photography www.novaweddingphotography.co.uk
Venue Westcott House www.thebigdomain.com/large-houses/westcott-house
Yurts Yurts for Life www.yurtsforlife.com
Dress Ronald Joyce from Krystle Brides www.krystlebrides.co.uk
Groom's outfit Moss Bros www.moss.co.uk TM Lewin www.tmlewin.co.uk
Entertainment Blue Attic www.blueatticband.com
Catering Bon Gout Deli www.bongoutdeli.co.uk
Hog roast Snout and Trotter www.snoutandtrotter.co.uk
Copyright Wed magazine 2014
