This is where we held our reception. Zach closed down the pub, and we simply decorated it. The sun was shining, and there was a singer, even though the weather had been raining every day since September!
This couple chose to do things their way, with a church ceremony followed by a pub reception. The WED2B Real Weddings section reveals more…
Samantha and Keith were introduced through a dating application. Samantha says, “We went out for drinks in Nottingham at Christmas 2018.” My dad had unexpectedly died a few months before, so our first date was canceled. Keith sent me a sweet note every day even though we had never met.
A 50th BIRTHDAY Proposal
Keith proposed after the couple had been dating for three years. Samantha says, “We moved together right before the pandemic.” Our holiday with friends was canceled that year, so we moved it to October to celebrate my birthday. It was a beautiful casual proposal at a Lanzarote villa with our closest friends to celebrate my 50th birthday and my birthday.
SHOPPING TO GET THE DRESS
Samantha says, “I found WED2B after searching online.” “I went to the Nottingham store with my mother, two daughters, and latest grandson. The assistant was beneficial in choosing dresses and suggesting how I should wear them. “I felt so comfortable being an older bride.”
Samantha selected the Gina, a modern A-line dress with no straps.
“i knew exactly what dress i wanted… i was looking for pockets!” says Samantha. “It was a tough choice between two dresses that were completely different, but I decided on the gina dress.”
Look at Elton, Amalfi, and Ravenna for similar styles.
A CHURCH WEDDING and PUB RECEPTION
Samantha says, “We wanted total control over our wedding and wanted it glamorous yet casual at the same.” We decided to forgo a formal reception in favor of a church wedding (my mum and bridesmaids walked with me).
“We are also good friends with Zach, who owns a local pub called The Royal Oak. This is where we held our reception. Zach closed down the pub, and we simply decorated it. The sun was shining, and there was a singer, even though the weather had been raining every day since September! “We got married on the 23rd. It was our lucky number.”
The Big Day
Samantha says, “My daughters’ best friend from childhood and my daughter stayed the night before at our home.” “Keith and his family, including the best man of the wedding party, stayed in a hotel near the house. My two sons and all of my “grandboys” were at our home. Keith’s family, including his son and grandchildren, arrived that day.
“My mum gave me away, which was perfect. I walked down the aisle to our song ‘i love you by Ruelle.’
LET’S CELEBRATE!
Samantha says that the Royal Oak provided all of the food, including canapes, upon arrival. “Our singer was amazing in the autumn sun and we sang and dancing outside before the disco started.”
A RUSTIC PARTY WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Samantha says, “We both had been married previously and didn’t want something too flamboyant.”
“We just wanted to celebrate our wedding with family and friends, and most importantly, to represent ourselves.” The theme was rustic, with hessian tables, lots of gypsophila, and floating candles.
Samantha says that the cake consisted of three layers of chocolate cake with buttercream. There were also canapes and sweet shots with signs that said, “We’ve married so take a picture!” as well as an open buffet of hot meats, salads, or couscous.
The Best Bits…
The most memorable things for me were the sunny weather, everyone’s smiling faces, and how easy and enjoyable it was. The groom’s speech will also be remembered.
