Emily & Kyle – A Woodland-Themed Wedding
Dreaming of a summer wedding where they could spend a magical time with their friends and family, Emily and Kyle planned to look around a number of potential wedding venues in Cheshire. Sandhole Oak Barn was the first they visited.
“The minute we saw the beautiful barn next to the picturesque lake, we knew it was the one.” – Emily
Visiting two other venues on the same day, they just didn’t get that same special feeling again.
“Without a doubt, the highlights of Sandhole were the layout of the oak barn and the lakeside country view.” – Emily
The July wedding date was set and the planning began!
Setting the Scene
Emily and Kyle decided on a woodland theme and spoke to their florist, Rachel from Lily’s of Bramhope, about how to keep it light and pretty for a summer wedding. Flowers in blush and cream sat alongside elegant shades of burgundy.
“Our florist sourced long branches for the top table which she then decorated with fern, tea lights and pine cones. Each table centrepiece was a log cross section, on top of which sat pretty flowers in vases, tea lights and more pine cones.” – Emily
Other than flowers, the décor was simple, highlighting the beauty of the barn and the great outdoors.
Looking the part
The beautiful bride chose her dress at Berketex in Manchester. Having tried on a number of styles, she found her perfect gown by opting for a skirt and bodice from their ‘mix and match’ range. The ‘Malena’ tulle gathered skirt was the perfect complement to the ‘Marita’ corset-style bodice with lace up back.
“I was originally sceptical about having a strapless dress as I didn’t want to spend all day pulling it up! It fitted like a dream.” – Emily
A delicate veil, teardrop necklace and lace heels completed the look.
Kyle chose a grey three-piece suit with pale blue lining while his groomsmen wore the same but without the waistcoats. Ties and pocket squares were chosen in blush pink to co-ordinate with the bridesmaids.
After searching high and low for the perfect bridesmaid dresses, they were eventually found in House of Fraser. Emily’s three bridesmaids wore long tulle dresses in blush pink from Little Mistress.
“I hope if I’m ever a bridesmaid, I’ll look as amazing as they did!” – Emily
Wedding day details
Following their civil ceremony, canapés and fizz were served while guests mingled and chatted. Adding some delightful musical entertainment, Craig from The Live Piano Experience played during the ceremony and up until the end of the wedding breakfast.
Bruschetta with three different toppings made a great starter before moving on to prosciutto-wrapped chicken for the main course. For dessert, guests enjoyed a delicious trio of sorbet, white chocolate and lime cheesecake and Prosecco jelly.
“We chose the food based on what we love. We also made sure the vegetarian options were just as tasty as ours.” – Emily
Evening celebrations
As day turned to evening, the newlyweds danced their first dance to ‘Still Into You’ by Paramore, inviting their guests to join them on the dance floor after the first verse.
“It was so much fun! Everyone commented on how nice it was to be part of such a special moment.” – Emily
Pulled pork sandwiches proved to be a great success, as the party continued at the finale of this fabulous summer celebration.
Emily’s favourite moment
“Walking in to the ceremony with my dad. It was so overwhelming to see everyone smiling at me. Then obviously seeing Kyle at the front of the aisle. When you first see each other, it’s the best feeling!”
Emily’s Top Tip
“Lean on your bridesmaids! Mine helped with all the little DIY things like favours and name cards.”
Photography courtesy of © Will Mason-Jones Photography
