Real Life Weddings at Fanhams Hall

How did you both meet and how did the proposal occur?

We met 28 years ago at Paradise Wildlife Park.
The proposal was unknown to me and Brian and one of our friends had been plotting this for a while. She invited us and all our close friends (who also had no idea) to her and her husband’s newly built mansion house. I thought it was for drinks and a catch up when Brian got down on one knee in front of everyone. It was so surreal and such a beautiful proposal.
What was more shocking was that he had a venue and a date for it to take place 6 months after.

What did you love most about Fanhams Hall?

I had previously had a lunch at Fanhams a few weeks before the proposal and at the time were saying how beautiful the building and gardens were. Little did  know that would be married there months later.
The staff are amazing and nothing was too much trouble. Symphonie, Justice and Rachel the Functions Manager on the day were super organised and kept us informed every step of the way.

Did you have a theme or a particular style for your day?

Although the dress code was black tie, we wanted a relaxed and informal atmosphere. The twilight wedding suited us perfectly. With the help of Justice we chose a caribbean buffet as Brian’s family are from Barbados.

We had blush pink blossom trees with lots of soft pink lights in the evening. The suppliers Coral & Blue were so helpful. They provided inspiration and managed the day perfectly.

Tell us all about THE dress…..

I wasn’t seriously dress shopping when I found my dress as I thought that I was trying to see what styles I might like. It was the first dress that I tried on and even though I loved it I knew I had to try on others. I then went on the try on A LOT of other dresses before I went back to the very first dress.

What do you remember most about the day itself?

The excitement of everyone getting ready. My sister walking me down the aisle to the song ‘At Last’ and seeing all family and friends. The speeches as they were fantastic, dancing all night and feeling so proud of my new husband.

Basically the whole day was special and I couldn’t stop smiling!

Were there any special moments or surprises?

My sister was absolutely amazing and I couldn’t have done it without her. She put in so much effort to make sure that I had many special moments to remember. One of them being a photo of my Nan, who is sadly no longer with us, in a locket attached to my bouquet.

Also before everyone arrived in the morning, I had a little peek in the ceremony room which was being beautifully set up which made it all feel real.

What tips or advice would you give to future couples?

For the decoration, If you are able to get someone else to do it then do. It takes away so much stress.
Also, try not stress and make yourself anxious over the smallest details. It will all work out on the day. And if it doesn’t then nobody else will notice.

Do it your way and don’t let others interfere. It’s both of yours’ special day.

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