Nothing
is more exciting than Christmas (as long as you’re not Scrooge) or a wedding
(as long as you’re not devoid of romance) so put the two together and what do
you have? A rip-roaring romantic Christmassy fest of amazingness that was Nigel
and Jen’s wedding!
Yes, the
weather outside was frightful, but by-golly inside was so delightful.
Decorations everywhere… Christmas trees, wreathes, snowmen figurine thingies,
you name it - Hanbury Manor Hotel had it! A blazing fire, excited kids running around like
loons in very cool Converse, a beautiful bride, a gorgeous groom, lots of
lovely family and friends and one heck of an ace band. This wedding had the
lot!
I arrived
just as Chloe Danielle was putting the final touches to Jen’s make-up and I was
instantly bowled over by how stunning she looked! We’re talking movie star good
looks here, so much so that tears were shed! None of this mamby-pamby normal good
looks stuff, but downright gorgeous and she has the personality to back it up –
such a lovely gentle soul who is clearly a very doting mother. It had to be
mentioned a few times that this was in fact ‘Mummy’s Day’ and not ‘Kids’ Day.’ I’m
sure most of the other days of the year are indeed ‘Kids’ Days’. I can hear all
parents sigh.
There
was much excitement in the room… a real buzz, but Jen was very calm throughout
and got into her gorgeous dress from Wedding Trousseau in plenty of time, so we
could do some great bridal portraits. I must say all the kids were very cool
and so well behaved too… proper little models, all of them! ‘The camera loves
you all daaarlings’.
One of
my favourite moments from the day was when Jen walked down the aisle… Nigel
couldn’t hold back the tears and it was lovely to see so much emotion. But along with the tears there were equal
amounts of laughter, and a ton of ridicule - this lot like to take the big ‘P’
out of each other and it’s super funny!
The
speeches were absolutely hilarious. Of note, Riley - a wee 3 year old who
clearly has a well-established P-taking sense of humour – unwittingly sabotaged
some of his Dad’s jokes by pulling out the props too early; namely, a ball and
chain and a giant toothbrush. Nigel also gave Jen’s mum the book, Mother-in-law. Dummies Guide to Cooking
– my mouth dropped open, but Jen’s mum almost fell out of her chair laughing. Jen’s
father couldn’t resist a loving jibe at Nigel’s inability to keep up with a
gazillion miles of walking and also named and shamed Grant (stag-do attendee)
for asking what clay pigeons were made of… what a bright scamp, but clearly very
proud (see picture). And it’s not often
I have sympathy for a best man, but when you have your new teeth whitened to an
inch of their existence you’re going to a) need a bigger brush and b) endure a
little gentle banter and teasing from your best friend, the groom. Along with
the giant toothbrush, Nigel issued all guests with sunglasses to protect their
eyes from said teeth- it was side-splitting!
So the
merriment continued, drinks flowed, more laughter ensued and everyone danced
their little socks off to Wayne Hart Music - a five-piece band who were simply
amazing!
To
finish I would like to offer massive congratulations to Nigel and Jen, I think
you are a wonderful couple with awesome kiddies to boot. You were genuinely a
real pleasure to work with and, to top it off, your friends and family were
just as lovely. Everyone made me feel so welcome… I was always greeted with a
warm smile and willingness to be photographed. Often I have to deal with
camera-dodgers but no no, not with this
lot… they loved it ;-).
So… to Nigel
and Jen, I wish you and your little ones all the love and luck in the world.
May 2014 bring you much laughter and happiness as you embark on your future together
and as a family.
Keep
smiling those gorgeous smiles and remember, it doesn’t always have to be ‘Kids’
Days.’
My love and best wishes to you all!
Loukie xx
