Mirror Table Plan, Garden Games and Floral Arch for Black Tie Marquee Wedding

Photography by Angela Ward-Brown Photography

Classic style never goes out of fashion, and this wedding is proof that timeless will always be on trend. The bridal party look picture perfect in their black tie and blush bridesmaids dresses, whilst the bride is a knockout in her off-the-shoulder St Patrick dress. Ooh, that lace! Hampshire Collegiate School - the former home of Florence Nightengale, no less - provides a stunning backdrop to the celebrations, whilst clever calligraphy signs - including a mirror table plan, kraft label place settings and wooden sign - look great and get guests into place. Multitasking at its prettiest! This is the sort of day that will never date. Pinning fingers at the ready...

Bridal Morning Preparations with Bride in St. Patrick Wedding Dress

White and Green Church Floral Arch Wedding Flowers

Groom in Black Tie Suit from Charles Tyrwhitt in the Church Courtyard

Bridesmaids in Dusky Pink Dresses from ASOS

Bride and Groom Married at a Church Wedding Ceremony

Bride and Bridesmaids in the Church Courtyard

Bride in Lace St Partrick Wedding Dress with Groom in Black Tuxedo Suit

Elegant Bride and Groom Wedding Portrait

Bride and Groom Church Wedding Portrait with Dappled Light

Bride and Groom Church Courtyard Confetti Moment

Bride and Groom on Convertible Wedding Car Covered in Confetti

The Vibe Of Our Day
We had in mind a clear vision of the style and atmosphere we wanted, with a classic, timeless and elegant feel being really important to us. Our excellent florist, Lily Lupin, crafted some bespoke designs that really captured this brief, including a creeping floral design up the bar and touches of gold and grey on the banquet tables. After getting engaged in Rome, we also wanted to include a nod to Italy, so had an Italian-themed wedding breakfast menu, woodfired pizza by Dough & Deer in the evening, and named our tables after failed engagement spots in Rome!
Lucy & David

Mirror Table Plan

Don't underestimate the impact decorative detail can have on your day. Lucy & David's brief was classic and elegant, which they not only nail through their beautiful fashion and flowers, but also through their venue styling. And the good news is, anyone can have a go (although we would always advocate talking to an events stylist - particularly those from our handpicked supplier directory, The List - for inspiration). Lucy & David's gorgeous mirror table plan was made by the groom's sister. Clever eh? The Father of the Bride also wins an award for his construction credentials, having DIY-ed the welcome sign and Insta-frame. The newlyweds reveal that seeing all the designs they thought up (and tripped to various DIY stores for) on the day was one of the best things and made all the hard work worthwhile. (Oh, and insider secret: the apple-crate whiskey and cigar bar was a fave hang-out for the lads!)

Advice For Brides-to-be
My top tip is to make a timetable for your wedding morning, with set times when certain people are getting hair and make up done. Doing this meant all the bridal party knew what they were doing when, meaning plenty more time to relax and take it all in (and fewer questions bombarding the bride!). Prep in advance, even the smaller things; and remember, although not everything will go to plan, make sure you relax and enjoy the moment. The day really does go too fast!
Lucy & David

Elegant Place Setting with Luggage Tag and Rosemary Sprig

Peach Rose Flower Stem in Gold Vessel with Greenery

Craft Paper Luggage Tag Name Place Setting

Marquee Wedding Reception Decor with Foliage Garlands and Fairy Lights

Three Tier Wedding Cake on Grey Cake Stand

Fireplace Mantel Filled with Gold and Glass Vases filled with Green and White Flowers

Breaded Prawns on Skewers by Ginger Catering

Black and White Bride and Groom Portrait

Golden Hour Bride and Groom Wedding Portrait

Lucky bride Lucy has some seriously talented friends, not least one of her bridesmaids, Amy, who happens to be the make up artist behind Made Up Brides, member of our recommended suppliers directory The List. Bridal beauty is super important to most RMW readers - and to the team too: we want you to feel the best version of yourself on your big day. To help you look good - and feel great - our very own make up maven Charlotte O'Shea talks all things beauty in Episode 2, Season 2 of our podcast.