James and Alex's Wedding in Edenbridge, Kent
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J&A
12 Jul, 2024Our Real Wedding
Alex & James’ Timeless Wedding at Holy Trinity Church, Crockham Hill and Chiddingstone Castle
Alex and James got engaged in February 2023 on top of the High Roller in Las Vegas. While a quick trip to a little chapel was tempting, they knew they wanted a wedding surrounded by friends and family. The couple quickly settled on Holy Trinity Church in Crockham Hill, a special place for James' family. Several of his relatives have been christened and buried there, but they were the first to be married in the Grade II listed church, known for its Victorian-medieval style and original fittings.
For the reception, Chiddingstone Castle was the perfect choice. The stunning gardens in full bloom and the romantic, classic feel made it exactly what they envisioned. Alex, a lover of 1950s style, wore a LouLou Bridal off-the-shoulder gown, complemented by gold dance shoes and her signature red lipstick. The bridesmaids were dressed in soft sage green Ever Pretty gowns, while James kept it traditional in a morning suit, adding a floral twist with his waistcoat. The ceremony itself was unique, with two vicars conducting the service due to Church of England protocols, and James' father delivered a beautiful reading.
Continue reading »After the ceremony, the newlyweds took a short drive to Chiddingstone in Alex's beloved red Figaro, Roxie, where they were greeted with a champagne reception on the lawn, complete with croquet and lawn games. The Great Hall was set for the delicious meal provided by Tandem Catering and the tables decorated with decoupaged oyster shells favours made by the bride and floral arrangements crafted by the brides mother and godmother, speeches were followed by dessert and coffee on the North Lawn—adding a unique twist to the evening.
As night fell, guests gathered for the cutting of the magnificent six-tier wedding cake, handmade by Alex. The couple’s first dance was a lively jive to Olly Murs’ “Dance With Me Tonight,” showcasing James’ impressive moves. The live band, North Star, kept the energy high, while guests enjoyed a DIY photo booth with an old bellows camera retrofitted with an iPad, creating some of their favorite keepsake photos.
The evening ended with pulled pork baps to keep everyone dancing, and cake boxes for guests to take home a slice of the special day. The night concluded with carriages at 11pm, and the couple headed off to a serene spa hotel in Tunbridge Wells to begin their new chapter together.
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