This was comical in itself as it took both myself and all of the girls to carry the train of the dress.
Dad decided to lead the way to the church which was just next door. Then I realised something I should of pre -empted Dad was going the wrong way. Now I must stress this wasn't because Dad wanted to keep me as far from the church as possible but just that he has a poor sense of direction. This included one time driving home from Birmingham and ending up in Wales... when we were heading for Lincolnshire!
So whilst we started heading the wrong route I had to highlight this to him - which did mean a small detour around some bins. It was hilarious! The giggles certainly made the nerves disappear.
Arrival at the church was the most nervous I think I've ever felt but relying on both our vicar Donald and Eileen the Administrator we were in good hands. Before I had a chance to take in the moment the music was playing and Eileen was directing the Bridesmaids like a conductor with a symphony. But then the girls in front of me had disappeared and it was just me and Dad!
A whisper came into my right ear "Your turn, off you go!"
Now a ceremony of marriage is extremely personal and one I will continue to share only in the memories of my dear guests that witnessed it that day. I don't mind sharing several facts but the rest is ours.
Walking down the aisle to Pachabel's Canon all I can remember was craning my head down the 'L' shaped aisle to him. And there he was, everyone else a blur and not a tear was shed from me - just a gigantic smile. He looked perfect, so smart and ready.
Our service was perfect, we didn't screw up our words and we joined together to light a candle. Both our readings read by Kerry and Laura were perfect. One kind guest explained it was the "best service they'd ever been too!" Robust hymns of Jerusalem, Give me oil in my lamp and Lord of the Dance were sang so that they had some welly and that we weren't relying on one elderly relative to carry the tune. Who needs a choir when you've got our lot.
Within 45mins we were Mr & Mrs Ablard.
We didn't leave our church to the traditional wedding march, it's not really my thing so instead we chose one of Vivaldi's 4 seasons.
Confetti was thrown and hugs given out (definitely should have thought twice about the veil) arms from everyone wrapped round my neck and pretty much yanked it off every time. It was lovely to see everyone though as you don't get a chance to wave walking down the aisle.
I noticed that when a couple get married everyone likes to offer so much advice, for me I'm glad they did. One crucial pearl of wisdom was don't get separated as you won't see each other much, I'm happy to report we managed to stay together and not get separated for the majority of the day, a success!
After the official photographs, we went to see our room - it was beautiful. The room was the 17th century part of the hotel and I had specifically chosen tall candelabra's to off set the high ceilings. These were twisted with roses and made stunning centre pieces. We also made a last minute change to the arrangement on the mantel piece opting for a lot of green foliage, mixed with a few flowers and candles amongst them. We really did bring the enchanted forest to life.
The tables were scattered with clear crystals with a jam jar of sweets, and everyone got a small silver chocolate heart, and our signature sloe gin's in tiny glass bottles with drink me labels. The four tiered masterpiece stood pride of place in the bay window with my two teddy ornaments (dressed as bride and groom) on top.
The story about the teddy's is quite lovely. I was bought the bride teddy when I was a little girl, not quite sure how old maybe 8 or 9. I loved her but she was always alone. When I was a teenager I happened to go into an antique store in Long Sutton, low and behold I found the groom. They've been together ever since. So it was their little love story I wanted to represent and that's why teddy's were on the top of our wedding cake.
Method in my madness.
I couldn't of been prouder of the way that room looked - when we walked in it took our breath away.
Now we got to have a sneaky look and then were fished out to stand by the door and greet all the guests. My favourite moment was when one of Luke's friends thanked us for coming ... getting rather mixed up. Luke's response... "Thanks for inviting us." Once in the room the grand oak doors were closed and we were announced in, that moment is one of my favourite of the day, my new married name was used and the round of applause we received I will never forget.
Dinner was lovely although we did not eat much, and then came the speeches.
Well done to all. The speeches began with my Dad, followed by my husband, followed by me (yes, unconventional) and finally the best man. All were wonderful, but what topped it off was my sneaky Maid of Honor going around organising a sweep stake on the total time. The winning table was approx 5 seconds out and thank you to them as they very kindly gave me and Luke half the proceeds.
Soon it was time to clear out of the room for it to be turned down for the evening reception, giving some time to change, others time to get more boozy. Whilst evening guests began to arrive our room was finally ready which meant cutting that fabulous cake and followed by the first dance.
Here is my moment of honesty - I hated the first dance. I felt awkward, embarrassed and thank goodness my Maid of Honor jumped on the dance floor with Kerry when I gave her the nod - life saver yet again (all these little duties add up for a Maid of Honor).
It was a lovely song "Thousand Years" by Christina Perry but I just felt a bit of an idiot. My advice to all, choose fast paced and go for funny. On reflection Luke and I should of done our usual drunken attempt of the Tango to Roxanne from Moulin Rouge. I say drunken as we always believe we can do it once we've had a drink.
After our first dance the incredible band Infuzion came on. Based in Northampton, these guys were incredible, the dance floor was never empty and the music was superb. I can't thank them enough for their tunes, all a mixture but very motown, soul and modern.
We had a frame going round from the photographer and we set up our own props table. There are some cracking shots.
By the end of the night the weight of the dress finally had the better of me but I danced till the very end.
I want to take the opportunity to thank absolutely everyone. Everyone involved in making the dream a reality. Everyone who came from near and far to support us on our day. All those who came to the Sunday garden party. The generosity of everyone was incredible we can never thank you all enough.
We've come to the end of my wedding blog, there have certainly been up's and down's in the planning. At the end of the day i'm sat here smiling into 2015, knowing that 2014 was the most incredible year of my life. I married my best friend and we both had a wedding that was far beyond what either of us could imagine. I don't think I will ever tire of weddings so anyone out there who needs help I'm your lady to ask. :)
My blogs will continue but after 2 years of writing
this one is now completed.
Lots of love to all those who've read.
Mrs Ablard
No comments:
Post a Comment