Timeless, breathtakingly beautiful images from Suman and Scott’s day are stopping me in my tracks as I scroll today. This stunning couple married at Coombe Abbey and chose English Wedding member Damien Vickers – a luxury wedding photographer in Cambridge – to capture their day. More than anything else, it’s the love in their eyes as they glance at each other that makes Suman and Scott’s wedding so magical. Their words for favourite Coombe Abbey wedding suppliers – including their brilliant photographer of course – are heartfelt. An enchanting wedding – and we’ll share even more on our instagram today @englishweddingblog
Our wedding photography
Damien Vickers captured our Coombe Abbey wedding.
Damien was absolutely fantastic. As a couple that isn’t at home in front of the camera, Damien really put us at ease during our engagement photoshoot and on the day of the wedding. We loved his style of photography and his approach. Damien was great to work with and the photos were beautiful!
Our wedding venue
Coombe Abbey. The Coombe Abbey grounds were beautiful and provided the perfect backdrop to our champagne reception. The marquee very comfortably housed our mid-sized party providing a great space to celebrate our special day with our loved ones.
Our wedding outfits
Suman was wearing a bespoke maroon lengha by Monga’s with champagne gold, pink and sage embroidery complemented by a pink and gold necklace set and traditional red bangles (called a choodha). Scott was wearing a bespoke tailored 3-piece suit by Edit Suits complete with a set of turtle cufflinks as a nod to our home in the Cayman Islands.
Our amazing suppliers
Our fresh flowers and decor were provided by Stylish Weddings who did a phenomenal job with the venue. Fiona and the team were brilliant from start to finish and really understood and brought to our life our vision.
Emma Bradley Designs provided our stationery. No request was too much trouble and Emma’s turnaround time was much faster than we’d expected. The stationery was beautiful with Emma effortlessly tying it all together by incorporating designs and motifs specifically created for our special day.
A beautiful, elegant and traditional wedding for today – and this truly is special. Charlotte and Adam are a stunning couple and their day feels tranquil and joyful – a laid back and graceful wedding. Their review for luxury wedding photographer Damien Vickers, who’s based in Cambridge, says more than I ever could about the images, which are perfection. I love that Charlotte and Adam’s ceremony was at 5pm – which worked wonderfully for the light in their wedding photos and is a really lovely time for a wedding, adding to the sense of serenity of their day.
Wedding photographer’s website
Cambridge luxury wedding photographer Damien Vickers, https://damienvickersphotography.co.uk
Wedding photographer review
We cannot recommend Damien enough to other couples looking for a wedding photographer. Damien was fantastic in his communication with us right from the start. We had a great pre-wedding shoot to put nerves at ease, and it paid off on the day. Damien was a calming presence on the wedding day and somehow everywhere he needed to be but without being noticed! It was amazing to have a selection of photos back within 48h to share with family and friends, and the turnaround for the full album was incredibly fast. We are absolutely blown away by the photos – he has captured our day perfectly with photos of the big moments and many small things we didn’t get to see on the day! Just exceptional from start to finish.
Your best wedding moment or memory
The Chapel where we married has a west-facing entrance with beautiful stained glass windows above the doors. Walking back down the aisle after the ceremony as husband and wife, we were incredibly lucky to have the sun beaming through the stained glass as it began to set. Watching the doors ahead open onto the lawn for us with such breathtaking lighting was a magical moment.
Tell us anything you did differently – we love hearing about NEW traditions (or none at all!)
The bride and maid of honour made the cake together, which wasn’t without its stresses but was entirely worth it! We got married at 5pm, which is obviously a lot later than most UK weddings. For us this worked perfectly, giving a lovely evening drinks reception before moving straight on to the wedding breakfast and party – energy was high all evening and the dancefloor was always full!
Videographer name + review
Seb Biddle, https://www.sbfilms.co.uk
Seb was fantastic to work with in the run up to the wedding. He was very quick to respond to emails and was always happy to answer any questions, no matter how silly they seemed. He brought a great energy on the day and was relaxed and easy going throughout – always where he needed to be but at the same time completely blended in. We were worried about having another camera around all day but honestly it was barely even noticeable. Filming is not usually allowed in the Chapel where we married, and Seb worked within the restrictions given to ensure we had footage of our ceremony. Unlike a lot of videographers, Seb also asked for our input in choosing music to accompany the film which was fantastic. We are so looking forward to seeing the finished result!
Venue name + review
King’s College, Cambridge.
The college holds a lot of special memories for us having played a big part in our University years. We cannot thank Clare enough for her patience and guidance through the planning process – she answered any questions promptly and was very happy to work with us to make our day special. She went above and beyond in the days running up to the wedding and on the day itself, doing much more than her job description to ensure things went smoothly! King’s also provide the catering – the service was impeccable, and we had so many comments on how amazing the food was. The Events team are absolutely outstanding and worth every penny.
Tell us a little about your outfits – both of you!
I wore Pronovias Adrienne dress, and a custom, two-tier satin edge veil. Both were everything I could possibly have dreamed of!
Adam wore navy herringbone tails with a stone waistcoat and paisley tie.
Dress or suit shop name + review
Bride dress: Bridal Rogue Gallery
Beautiful shop with wonderful staff who made dress shopping much less stressful than I had anticipated!
Bride veil: The Wedding Veil Shop
Exceptionally helpful in helping to choose and design the right veil for the dress, including asking for photos and measurements to make sure it was just right – which it was!
Groom: Moss Bros
Florist name + review
Heidi completely understood the brief and the flowers she delivered on the day were absolutely perfect. She was a joy to work with and made sure we were absolutely on the same page by arranging multiple video calls. She did all the set up and take down on the day which was hugely appreciated. Can’t thank her enough for bringing the vision to life!
Cake maker name + review
Bride and Maid of Honour (bride’s sister!) made this ourselves with thanks to Jane’s Patisserie recipes and mum and dad for letting us use their kitchen. Shout out to Floracle for the beautiful dried flowers.
Any crafty projects or homemade styling touches?
A wonderful friend Eva Gates (Eva Jane Gates https://evajanegates.co.uk) drew the most incredible drawing of the Chapel where we were married for us to use on our wedding invitations and stationery
Wedding readings?
Mother of the Groom did a beautiful Bible reading – Song of Solomon 8:6-7 The bride’s brother read the poem Scaffolding by Seamus Heaney which was very moving
Hair + makeup name + review
Laura Cartwright https://lauracartwrightmakeupartist.co.uk
Laura was really wonderful from start to finish. She was quick to respond to emails and answer any questions. I had a fab time at my trial and she took the time to ensure I was really happy with my hair and makeup. On the day, she brought a great energy – we had a lot of laughs, and she was able to calm me down when I needed it, including staying with me right til we walked down the aisle. Myself and my bridesmaids were so pleased with the final result!
Explore more! Discover 10 outstanding wedding venues in and around Cambridge, from the fabulous architecture within the colleges of Cambridge University to the many large country houses and rustic farm venues in Cambridgeshire. (tap to read)
An artistic and beautiful bride and her handsome husband, surrounded by colour and joy! This wedding is beyond beautiful, filled with vibrant creative styling touches and personal details. Images are by our fave, Cambridge and South Farm wedding photographer Damien Vickers, who gets a glowing review from the happy couple. Lots of heartwarming supplier reviews from our star couple below, so grab a brew and have a slow scroll! I’ll share more on instagram @englishweddingblog later today!
Wedding photographer’s website
Cambridge wedding photographer Damien Vickers – https://www.damienvickersphotography.co.uk/
Wedding photographer review
Damien was just so easy to work with. We are terrible at taking photos and tend to look incredibly awkward in any that do exist! We had a pre-wedding shoot, which despite my nerves as we tread the cobbled Cambridge streets in the ‘golden hour’, was a great experience.
It meant that on the day, we’d already built a rapport with Damien and it was one less thing to worry about. I don’t know how he managed to be everywhere on the day!
One of the best things about getting our photos back was seeing all the moments we’d missed, being the centre of attention. He had captured so many wonderful candid shots of our friends and loved ones. He was both easy-going and relaxed with us, but also assertive and clear when getting the group shots. His experience shone through as we asked many questions in the run up to the day – all of which he answered with care and provided options or recommendations.
Your best wedding moment or memory
For me, it was the moment that my Dad and I could see our guests as he walked me down the aisle. Everyone was gathered in the beautiful garden at South Farm. I had been the most nervous all day once the music started and my bridesmaids left us waiting in the hallway of the farmhouse. Just the two of us for a few minutes. Then all of a sudden, we were bathed in love from our friends and family. Everyone was beaming and looked so fancy! I made a point to make as much eye contact as I could (whilst also trying to walk slowly). It was really a privilege to have so many people there to celebrate us. Then, there Jake was, smiling at the end of the aisle and we both had tears in our eyes when we said ‘hello!’.
Jake chose the first dance as his favourite moment. He said that the high pressure events of the day were all over, from ceremony to speeches, and he could now relax and have fun! I was not so relaxed in those final moments waiting for the first chords to kick in – as I’m not a natural dancer. We’d worked hard over a couple of months to learn a routine to ‘Come and Get Your Love’ by Redbone, which was played live by The Dominos. Jake used to be in a band and has an extroverted side, so our upbeat first dance suited his inner performer!
Tell us anything you did differently – we love hearing about NEW traditions (or none at all!)
There was just so much about the wedding that fell into place. We were incredibly lucky to secure a Saturday in August at South Farm, just 7 months before our wedding. This happened to also be the date of our 11th anniversary together – this definitely felt serendipitous. We had no idea how popular South Farm was as naïve wedding planners ourselves!
Our Band, The Dominos, perform at weddings and events internationally and were available on our date! Two of the members of the band, Stu and Alex, had a band with Jake when they were teenagers, so really, we would not have wanted anyone else to perform for us.
We had our dogs, Bear & Arlo, with us on the day. They had many admirers and endless offers for walkies! For us, they’re part of the family so having them with us meant a lot.
In the run up to the wedding of course there’s lots of wed-min which can be stressful, but one of the best things we have ever done is learning our first dance together. We bought an online package which had video tutorials and spent about two months practicing most evenings in our dining room. Although we’re not dancers, we wanted to do more than an awkward shuffle for our first dance! We both loved the song ‘Come and Get Your Love’ by Redbone and wanted an upbeat opener to the evening celebrations. The tempo meant it was both fun and silly to learn, as we’d trip over each other, miss beats and fall around laughing. In all the stresses of day-to-day life our dance practice was a time apart, where we’d simply look in each others’ eyes and give it a go. I smiled so much in all of our practices.
Venue name + review
South Farm What can I say – South Farm are fabulous. Everything from the venue itself, the food and the smooth running of the day – they have it all down to a tee.
We had nothing to worry about on the day, South Farm managed everything. It meant we could be fully present and enjoy the time with our guests.
The spaces are all tastefully decorated, spotlessly clean and the gardens have a range of meticulously tended and wild areas. People can meet in larger or smaller groups both inside and outside, so everyone can be comfortable throughout the day. Having the whole site for your wedding feels special and exclusive.
The team at South Farm are impeccable. Any concern or query was responded to promptly. They provide really clear timelines and communications on decisions, payments and finalisations. The staff are warm and friendly, nothing phases them and any issue is dealt with smoothly and with ease.
The food is divine. We did a tasting evening and were stuffed! The menu is extensive and there are lots of options for those with dietary needs. I’m gluten free (allergy) and nothing was a bother, I felt really safe eating there throughout the day.
Tell us a little about your outfits – both of you!
My dress was from Heritage Brides in Hatfield – It is Lee Lee by ByWatters and Sam, who runs the shop, could not have been a safer pair of hands.
I’d been to one bridal shop before this and so I’d tried on a lot of silhouettes, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted. I’m not the type of person who has held a wedding for a long time. She listened and asked careful questions to pull out dresses for me to try. As I’d critique a dress, she’d adapt and pull the next choice.
I did have that ‘wow’ moment where I cried when I saw ‘the’ dress – which I did not expect! So there was no going back then. I didn’t expect to go for a gown or for the oatmeal colour in my dress, but when I tried it on, it sang and really complimented my (pale Irish!) skin colour.
I also had a flower crown handmade by Suzy, our Florist. My necklace was from Jersey Pearl. It was a present to me from Jake on the day – Jersey was where we’d spent a really lovely holiday a few years earlier! My earrings were handmade ceramic by Vivi Embellish (Elara Drops) from MarriMe in Newcastle. My bracelet was by Martina Hamilton, an Irish Jeweller, which was a present on the day from my parents. All of the accessories I have worn since and they bring a smile as I think back to our wedding day!
Jake’s suit was from Edit Suits in London – He had tried many high-street shops and rental options, but couldn’t find quite the right fit or colour so he opted to have his suit made. He said they offered a personalised service at a reasonable price, with numerous customisable options and provided quick turn-around from measure to final fit. His shoes are from Loake & the tie and pocket-square are a Liberty of London print bought from Etsy.
Florist name + review
Suzy Randell – Suzy was warm, knowledgeable and we worked well together to develop the vision for the flowers.
She was open to incorporating my creative elements into her floral displays. Using mood boards, visiting her in her studio and trying out a pre-wedding flower crown all really helped to bring the bold and bright florals to life. We took all the flowers home and had them up for weeks! She was very sensitive to any particular flowers we might want, for example, dahlia’s were Jake’s Nan’s favourite flower and she couldn’t be with us on the day. We had lots of dahlia’s! Across the different floral aspects – from meadow flowers, garland, bouquet to table arrangements, Suzy brought variation but matched this within the overall theme through her styling and flower choice.
Cake maker name + review
Our cake was made by a neighbour of ours, Chris. She made a gluten free Victoria sponge with raspberry conserve. She worked tirelessly making the individuals wildflowers which were modelled on those from Jake’s tie & pocket-square. She added fresh rosemary and a surprise of shamrocks, nodding to my Irish heritage. She is a warm and incredibly generous person and we loved the cake. It tasted wonderful too!
The topper is handmade in Vietnam (Chabinu Pegdolls on Etsy). Mika asked for details of our wedding outfits and also photos of us (and the dogs!). She sent proofs before she painted the figures and even clarified details for the dogs! I love them!
Stationery maker’s name + review
Grace Taylor @ Wildwood Paper – We opted for the Wild Meadow design for all of our on the day stationery. It matched the bold and bright colour theme, as well as featuring some of the same flowers in fabric and on the cake.
Grace was so easy to deal with, clear in her communication and managed expectations around delivery/timelines well. She gave a range of options based on her vast expertise. The quality of the prints was great and many guests took little mementos of the menu or their place-names!
Any crafty projects or homemade styling touches?
Lots! I’m a maker and an art therapist by profession so once our wedding became a reality I had lots of ideas!
A bold and bright theme of colours overall. Given the height of Summer and our plan to get married in the gardens, I knew the flowers would be exploding in rich colours. There were nine different core colours.
We made 300 woollen pom-poms – transforming these into parts of the table decorations, bunting and chair tassels, as well as decorations along the aisle. The idea for pom-poms came from my work with people with a learning disability. I was doing some research into group art therapy, one group I went to had me making pom-poms and it was filled with such joy that I wanted to take this into our wedding.
We also made 100 origami birds. A few years ago, I’d made a mobile of origami birds that was focussed on grief in my life. For our wedding, I wanted to re-work the theme of the paper birds, with joy as the focus and so the 100 colourful origami birds were born. My bridesmaids and parents were the key helpers in making and assembling this vision!
Alongside what we’d made, Charlie (The Stables Prop Hire) hung paper lanterns in the barns and trees outside. Suzy (our florist) had carte blanche to go wild with colour, though we did agree that as many locally grown flowers would be included as possible.
My shoes were wedges from Hobbs and I sewed leather flowers onto them, which echoed the large applique flowers on my dress.
My mum knitted me a fabulous mohair cardigan to a 1980s pattern I found. Though on the day it was too warm to wear my cardi – I have it now as a wonderful token from our day and love wrapping up in it.
Wedding readings?
‘Everything I know About Love’ by Neil Gaiman
My dear friend Edward (O’Grady-Walshe) read this for us at our ceremony. I’ve known Edward since 2007, we met working together in an architectural practice. He’s the kind of person you could not see for a year and then stay up all night talking to catch up. He is wildly talented as an artist, on stage and behind the scenes. Creativity is part of his DNA. I knew he’d be perfect to make the reading memorable for guests and I really wanted him to have a role in our day. What I didn’t expect was that all three of us would choke up as he read the poem. The sense of love and gratitude at being together, celebrating love and friendship, was palpable. And the audience loved it!
First dance song? Playlist recommendations?
‘Come and Get Your Love’ by Redbone
Jake was the master behind our playlist. We’d asked guests when they RSVP-ed for any requested songs and included these. We tried to have a range of musical styles across the day and into the evening so that everyone, if they wanted to, could get up and dance at some stage. We also worked with The Dominos to make sure that their set list was unique and our playlist didn’t repeat anything.
Other recommended wedding suppliers
Our band The Dominos have such a range of music and possible sets. They’re friendly and have just the right energy to match the vibe of the day. For us, they played during our drinks reception in the garden and then into the evening. They even checked outfit colours to ensure they wouldn’t clash with the wedding party!! Absolute professionals!
Coloured Paper Lanterns by Charlie Waters @ The Stables Prop Hire – https://www.thestablesprophire.co.uk/ She could not have done more for us – she was so helpful and so warm in all her communication.
Wedding bands were both from Galio Jewellers in St Albans – https://www.galio.co.uk/ Jake’s was custom made in Germany, mine was an accidental find which I was very pleased with as it fitted perfectly with my engagement ring, which Jake had chosen without any hints or suggestions.
Shellac Manicure (my first ever!) by Skin & Tonic in St Albans.
Mother of the Bride dress from Sinead’s Boutique, Ireland – https://sineadsboutique.com/ My mum felt really taken care of in Sinead’s. She was nervous about finding the right outfit as she’s more used to getting out and about in the countryside than wearing elegant dresses! So she needed a shop where they would work closely with her to make sure she was comfortable, but also that little bit special.
Bridesmaids dresses from Model Chic, Australia – https://www.modelchic.com.au/ Their communication was great and deliver estimates were spot on, also very reasonably priced. I wanted my bridesmaids to be able to choose a sleeve/strap style that they felt comfortable in, so the infinity dresses were perfect as there’s so many ways they can be worn.
Groomsmen & Father of Bride suits rented from Status Formal Hire in Harpenden. Efficient and professional service.
Wedding planner name + review
N/A – Though I must give a nod to South Farm here. Their team was incredible from our very first viewing, right through to having Evie as our wedding co-ordinator on the day. They know every aspect of weddings inside-out and so it felt like we had a team of wedding planners keeping us on track!
Hair + makeup name + review
Elouise Wallis @ Elouise Hair Stylist on Instagram as @elouise_hairstylist Elouise is my regular hairdresser, whom I’ve known since 2017 and followed her from salon to salon! I just knew it had to be her handling my hair and nerves on the day! She wouldn’t have let me go with a style that didn’t suit my face or hair type. A great piece of advice she gave at the trial was to try everything, every wild style idea I’d ever had and then see what felt most like ‘me’. She was a gem to have around on the day!
Katie Bullot @ GLOW by KT – Whom I chose for her natural looking dewey finish – I wear hardly any make up, so I wanted to feel like ‘me’ on the day, with a touch more glam! My bridesmaids and Mum also rarely wear make up, so I knew they’d be comfortable too. Katie is both professional and organised, with a keen attention to detail.
Sara & Tom’s wedding is one of the loveliest I’ve ever seen – with exceptional images by Cambridge & Suffolk wedding photographer Damien Vickers, and wonderfully elegant creative styling. The time this gorgeous couple put in to sharing their story, supplier recommendations and reviews has made me incredibly happy and proud of English Wedding. In the 15 years this blog has been sharing real weddings, I don’t think I’ve ever felt the way I do now after reading what this pair had to say about all of their suppliers. Their words are heartfelt, which perfectly fits the thoughtfully curated tone and style of their wedding. The little details of their day include so many considerate and welcoming touches for guests. The location and how special the space is for this gorgeous couple is really inspiring – and it all looks amazing.
Loads more on our instagram at @englishweddingblog over the coming days. Please do read through Sara & Tom’s English Wedding interview – it’s an absolute gem.
Wedding photographer’s website
Cambridge & UK wedding photographer Damien Vickers
Wedding photographer review
We are absolutely thrilled to share our experience with Damien Vickers, who was the photographer for our wedding. From start to finish, Damien was nothing short of amazing. He captured every magical moment of our special day with an artistry that exceeded all our expectations.
The photos of my husband and I are simply breathtaking. Damien has a remarkable talent for finding the perfect angles and lighting, making every shot look like something out of a fairy tale. His ability to capture the raw emotion and joy of the day is truly unmatched. Every time we look at the photos, we’re transported back to those precious moments, and we know we will cherish them for a lifetime.
Not only did Damien capture stunning photos of us, but he also worked so wonderfully with our family and friends. He was incredibly patient, kind, and professional, making everyone feel comfortable in front of the camera. The candid moments he captured of our loved ones are some of our favorite shots—so genuine and heartwarming. It’s as if he was able to freeze time and preserve the essence of our celebration.
Working with Damien was an absolute pleasure. He blended seamlessly into our wedding day, capturing the joy, love, and fun without ever being intrusive. He has a true gift for storytelling through his lens, and we are so grateful that he was part of our special day.
If you’re looking for a photographer who will capture your wedding day in the most beautiful and authentic way, look no further than Damien Vickers. His work is nothing short of phenomenal, and we couldn’t be happier with the memories he’s given us. We will treasure these photos forever. Thank you, Damien!
Your best wedding moment or memory
One of the most unforgettable moments of our wedding was the Father of the Groom’s speech. It was a truly special and heartfelt moment that left us in tears. As he stood before our family and friends, he spoke with such warmth and sincerity about the meaning of love. His words resonated deeply with everyone in the room, but especially with us. He shared the wisdom he has gained from over 35 years of marriage, talking about the true essence of love—the kind of love that endures through life’s ups and downs, that grows stronger with time, and that is built on mutual respect, understanding, and unwavering commitment. As he spoke, it was clear that he was not just offering advice but sharing the secrets of a lifelong love that he and his wife have cherished for decades. The way he spoke about his own marriage, and the love he has for his wife, was incredibly moving. It was a powerful reminder of what marriage truly means and what it takes to build a strong and lasting relationship. His words were not just a reflection of his love for his wife but a beautiful example for us to follow as we begin our own journey together. This speech was more than just words; it was a heartfelt gift from a father to his son and daughter-in-law. It was a moment of connection that we will hold in our hearts forever. His words of love, wisdom, and hope were the most special part of our wedding day, and we will always cherish the memory of that beautiful speech.
Tell us anything you did differently – we love hearing about NEW traditions (or none at all!)
Our wedding was truly a labor of love, the result of a year of planning and a lifetime of dreaming. It was a DIY celebration brought to life by the Pinterest mood board I, the bride, had been curating over the eight wonderful years my husband and I have spent together.
Every detail, from the smallest table setting to the most intricate hand-painted sign, was a reflection of our shared vision and the love we have for each other and our family and friends.
Hosting the wedding at our family farm made it all the more special. This was a place that held so many memories for us and our loved ones—a place where we had shared countless gatherings, and now, where we would celebrate the most important day of our lives. The farm provided the perfect backdrop, with its familiar landscapes and comforting atmosphere, making everyone feel right at home.
The months leading up to the wedding were filled with joyful moments as we prepared for the big day. We spent weekends driving around the countryside, visiting thrift stores to collect unique items that would add character and charm to our celebration. It was a journey of discovery, finding treasures that would come together to create something truly beautiful.
Hand-painting signs, carefully selecting table settings, and growing our own flowers added personal touches that made the day uniquely ours.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of our wedding was how our family and friends came together to contribute. They baked cakes and treats, filling our dessert table with homemade goodies that were as delicious as they were meaningful. It was wonderful to see everyone involved, sharing in the creation of our special day. Their efforts made the occasion feel even more intimate and loved.
We also wanted to ensure that our friends with children had a great time, so we set up a dedicated children’s area filled with fun activities to keep the little ones entertained.
For those who traveled from afar, we arranged a camping area on the farm, allowing our guests to stay overnight and celebrate without worry. It was important to us that everyone felt comfortable and could fully enjoy the day without the stress of finding accommodations.
In the end, our wedding was not just a celebration of our love, but also a reflection of the incredible community of people who have supported us throughout our journey. It was a day filled with love, laughter, and countless memories, made all the more special by the time, effort, and heart that went into every detail.
We will cherish these memories forever, knowing that our wedding was truly a labor of love, shared with the people who mean the most to us.
A beautiful and meaningful location
Our wedding venue was a place that holds a deep and personal significance for us—our family farm in Suffolk. Both of us come from farming families, so choosing to celebrate our wedding on the land that has been a part of our lives for so long was incredibly meaningful. The farm isn’t just a piece of land; it’s a place filled with memories and connections that link us to our roots, our loved ones, and the life we’ve built together.
Located in the heart of Suffolk, the farm provided the perfect setting for our special day. Suffolk is renowned for its beautiful countryside, and we were blessed with sunny weather that showcased the area’s natural beauty. The landscape here is nothing short of breathtaking, with rolling fields that stretch out beneath wide, open skies. As the sun began to set, we were treated to one of Suffolk’s iconic sunsets, with golden light casting a warm glow over everything, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
One of the most distinctive features of the Suffolk landscape, and a highlight of our venue, is the Brecks—the clusters of Breckland Pine Trees that stand tall and proud against the horizon. These trees are a symbol of Suffolk’s unique charm, adding to the picturesque setting that made our wedding day so special. The Brecks are a reminder of the enduring beauty of this place and a connection to the generations that have lived and worked on this land before us.
Our family farm isn’t just beautiful; it’s a place that has a connection with everyone who visits. Many of our guests had been here before, sharing in the celebrations, holidays, and quiet moments that have taken place over the years. Having our wedding here felt like welcoming our loved ones into a part of our history, where every corner of the farm tells a story. The farm provided a familiar and comforting backdrop, making our wedding day feel intimate and personal. In choosing to marry on our family farm, we celebrated not just our love for each other, but our love for the land and the life it represents.
Suffolk’s natural beauty, the connection to our families, and the countless memories we’ve made here all came together to create a wedding day that was as meaningful as it was beautiful. It was the perfect place to begin the next chapter of our lives, surrounded by the people and the landscape that mean the most to us.
Tell us a little about your outfits – both of you!
Our wedding outfits were a true reflection of our style and the vision we had for our special day.
My wedding dress was a perfect blend of modesty, classic elegance, and a touch of modern flair. It was a fitted white gown made of chiffon and lace, featuring a short train that added just the right amount of drama. The dress was backless, which gave it a contemporary edge, while still maintaining a timeless and graceful silhouette.
One of the most special aspects of my dress was the personal touch added by a wonderful seamstress. She skillfully altered the dress to include delicate half sleeves, which not only enhanced its elegance but also made it feel uniquely mine. These customizations made the dress feel even more special and perfectly suited to me.
To complete the look, I wore beautiful shoes from Charlotte Mills, which were as comfortable as they were stylish.
My wedding jewelry, sourced from Lace & Favour, added the perfect finishing touches, with each piece complementing the dress and making me feel like a bride straight out of a dream.
The groom’s outfit was a bit more challenging to put together, but the result was exactly what we envisioned. I had a very specific idea in mind and was determined to bring it to life.
We searched high and low to find the perfect copper or tan brown trousers that would set the tone for a unique and stylish look. After much searching online, we finally found the right pair that matched the vision perfectly. To complete the look, we paired the trousers with braces, adding a vintage touch that suited the relaxed yet refined vibe of our wedding.
The groomsmen wore coordinating bow ties, which tied the whole look together with our bridesmaids who had their own copper or terracotta dresses, creating a cohesive and stylish ensemble.
The attention to detail in the groom’s outfit mirrored the care and thought put into every aspect of our wedding, making it all the more special. Together, our outfits captured the essence of our day—classic yet personal, elegant yet relaxed, and completely true to who we are as a couple.
Dress or suit shop name + review
House of Snow in Bury St Edmunds & Bridal Pixie Alterations
I cannot express enough how grateful I am to House of Snow in Bury St Edmunds and Bridal Pixie Alterations for making my wedding dress dreams come true. These two businesses went above and beyond to ensure I felt like the most beautiful and authentic version of myself on my special day.
House of Snow was an absolute delight from the moment I walked through the door. Their collection of wedding dresses is simply stunning, with something for every bride. The team there took the time to understand my vision, helping me find the perfect dress that embodied both classic elegance and modern style. Their patience, expertise, and genuine passion for what they do made the entire experience unforgettable. I felt completely at ease knowing I was in the hands of such professionals.
Once I found my dream dress, Bridal Pixie Alterations worked tirelessly to make it uniquely mine. The talented seamstress at Bridal Pixie transformed my dress with meticulous care, adding delicate half sleeves that elevated the design to a whole new level. Her craftsmanship was impeccable, and she paid attention to every detail, ensuring that the alterations not only enhanced the dress’s beauty but also fit me perfectly. She truly understood how important it was for me to feel like myself in my wedding dress, and she made that happen with her incredible skill and dedication.
Thanks to House of Snow and Bridal Pixie Alterations, I walked down the aisle feeling confident, radiant, and completely “me.” Their commitment to making every bride feel special shines through in everything they do, and I can’t recommend them highly enough to anyone searching for their perfect wedding dress experience. These two businesses played a huge part in making my wedding day the most magical day of my life, and I will forever be grateful for their exceptional service and care.
Florist name + review
Tolly’s Flowers in Newmarket
I am beyond thrilled to share my experience with Tolly’s Flowers in Newmarket. Tolly’s exceptional work is truly something special, and it’s impossible for it to go unnoticed. His expert knowledge, care, and unwavering dedication to his craft are nothing short of remarkable.
From the very beginning, Tolly took the time to truly understand my vision. He listened carefully to what I wanted, and then went above and beyond to bring that vision to life. The floral arrangements he created were nothing short of breathtaking—every single detail was perfect. Tolly’s ability to work with my bespoke ideas and transform them into stunning floral masterpieces is a testament to his incredible talent and passion for what he does.
Tolly was incredibly hands-on throughout the entire process, ensuring that every flower was perfectly in place. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence made all the difference.
My bridal bouquet, in particular, was exactly what I had envisioned—elegant, vibrant, and full of life. The fact that Tolly personally delivered it on the morning of our wedding was the cherry on top, adding an extra touch of care and personalization that meant the world to me.
Thanks to Tolly, the flowers at our wedding were not just decorations—they were works of art that brought our entire day to life. I am so grateful for his expertise, creativity, and the love he puts into every arrangement.
If you’re looking for a florist who will not only meet but exceed your expectations, Tolly’s Flowers is the place to go. Thank you, Tolly, for making our wedding day so incredibly beautiful!
Cake maker name + review
I am absolutely thrilled to write this review for my dear friend Sophie Cole, who designed our wedding cake. Sophie’s talent and creativity truly know no bounds. The cake she created for our wedding was beyond anything we could have ever imagined—it was an absolute work of art!
Every detail was meticulously crafted, and the final result was nothing short of breathtaking. Not only was the cake stunning to look at, but it was also incredibly delicious. Sophie’s ability to combine artistry with flavor is unmatched, and our guests couldn’t stop raving about how amazing it tasted. She took the time to understand our vision and went above and beyond to bring it to life, creating a cake that perfectly reflected our style and the theme of our wedding.
Sophie, thank you for pouring so much love and care into making our wedding cake so special. It was a special highlight of our day and a beautiful centerpiece that we’ll remember forever.
Crafty projects and homemade styling touches
Our wedding was a true labor of love, brought to life through countless handmade projects that reflected our personalities and the unique journey we’ve shared.
From the very beginning, we knew we wanted our celebration to be a boho festival-themed wedding, and every detail was carefully crafted to create the magical day we envisioned. One of the most special projects was the wedding portfolio I created, which served as a guide and inspiration throughout the planning process. It was a collection of ideas, sketches, and plans that helped bring our vision to life. This portfolio became the blueprint for everything from the color scheme to the layout of the venue, ensuring that every element of the day was perfectly coordinated and deeply personal.
The handmade signs were another labor of love. Each one was carefully painted and customized to fit the aesthetic of our boho theme. They guided our guests through the day, from the welcome sign at the entrance to the signs pointing out the various activities and areas around the venue. Creating these signs was a joy, knowing they would add a personal touch and help set the tone for our celebration.
Growing our own flowers was an incredibly rewarding experience. Watching them bloom and then using them to decorate the tables and venue made the day feel even more connected to us. The flowers were a true reflection of the care and attention we put into every aspect of the wedding. Each table was named and adorned with these hand-grown blooms, adding a fresh, natural beauty to the celebration.
The sailcloth tent was the centerpiece of our festival theme, with its flowing fabric creating a light and airy atmosphere that was both elegant and relaxed. We set up outside games and seating areas around the tent, giving our guests plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the day.
The firepit and beer canoe added a touch of rustic charm, inviting everyone to gather, share stories, and savor the moment.
One of the most enchanting parts of the day was the forest area we transformed into a magical space with our love story woven into the trees. We created an enchanted forest where guests could wander and discover special moments from our journey together, beautifully displayed among the trees. It was a place of reflection and romance, where our story came to life in the most natural and whimsical setting.
To add a touch of our shared history to the festivities, we set up stations offering specialty cocktails connected to our past. Each cocktail told a story, representing a moment, place, or memory that was important to us. It was a fun and meaningful way to share our history with our guests and to celebrate the moments that brought us to this day.
Setting up each part of the wedding with such great care and attention to detail was a true labor of love. Every handmade project, every carefully chosen element, came together to create a day that was uniquely ours. It was a celebration not just of our marriage, but of the journey we took to get there, shared with the people we love most.
Wedding readings?
Our wedding readings were thoughtfully chosen to reflect the deep meaning and significance of marriage, each resonating profoundly with our personal experiences and values.
The first reading, “The Art of Marriage” by Wilferd A. Peterson, was delivered by my mother. Her reading of this beautiful piece was one of the most touching moments of the ceremony. The message of the poem, which speaks to the true essence of marriage—commitment, partnership, and the daily acts of love and kindness—was conveyed with heartfelt sincerity. As she read, the words resonated deeply with everyone present, offering a poignant reflection on how to nurture and sustain a loving relationship. It was a perfect reminder of the values we hold dear and aspire to live out every day.
The second reading, “I Carry Your Heart with Me” by E.E. Cummings, was particularly special to me. This poem holds a cherished place in my heart, as it beautifully encapsulates the profound love I’ve been fortunate to experience in my life. Growing up, I was blessed to be raised by my grandfather, whose love and wisdom shaped who I am today. This reading reminded me of his enduring presence in my life and the deep bond we shared. It also symbolised the love that my partner and I share—an unbreakable connection that we carry with us, no matter where life takes us.
Having both of these readings during our ceremony was a deeply meaningful way to honour the love that has guided me through my life and the love that my partner and I now share. Each reading brought its own special sentiment to our wedding, weaving together our past, present, and future in a way that was both personal and profound.
First dance song? Playlist recommendations?
Our first dance was an unforgettable moment, made even more special by the song we chose: “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne. This song has been close to our hearts since the day we met. It’s the kind of song that instantly makes you want to dance in your living room, with its simple yet joyful lyrics and soulful melody.
The magic of the moment was brought to life by the incredible Folk Fables Band from Entertainment Nation, who performed the song live. Their rendition was absolutely perfect—capturing the essence of the song while adding their own unique touch. As the band began to play, the familiar notes filled the air, and we were transported back to all those moments we’ve shared, dancing together in our living room, smiling, laughing, and feeling grateful for the love we found.
Dancing to “You Are the Best Thing” on our wedding day was a celebration of our journey together. The lyrics spoke to everything we feel about each other—how much we mean to one another and how our love has grown stronger over time. The live performance added an extra layer of emotion, making the moment feel even more intimate and special.
As we danced, surrounded by our loved ones, it felt like time stood still. The music, the atmosphere, and the joy of the occasion all came together to create a memory we will cherish forever. This song, and the way it was brought to life by the Folk Fables Band, perfectly captured the happiness and love we felt in that moment. It was the perfect choice for our first dance, and it will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Hair + makeup name + review
Elegant Hair and Beauty & Pretty Faces Makeup I can’t express enough how amazing Sharron at Elegant Hair and Beauty and Emma at Pretty Faces Makeup were on my wedding day. They made me feel like an absolute star, giving me the glowing beauty of J-Lo!
From the moment they arrived, they brought such a calm and joyful energy to our home, making the entire getting-ready process a wonderful experience.
Sharron worked her magic on my hair, creating fantastic waves and volume that were everything I had hoped for and more. My hair looked stunning and stayed perfect all day long. What made Sharron truly exceptional was her dedication—she even accompanied me all the way to the church, ensuring that every last detail was perfect before I made my grand entrance. That extra level of care and attention meant the world to me.
Emma’s makeup skills are truly second to none. She crafted a look that made me feel fantastically me—enhancing my natural beauty with flawless, radiant makeup that lasted all day and night. Emma perfectly captured the vision I had in mind, and I couldn’t have been happier with the result. She also did an incredible job on my bridesmaids, making each one look and feel absolutely beautiful.
Together, Sharron and Emma created a fun, relaxing atmosphere as we got ready, and their professionalism and expertise shone through every step of the way. They made sure we all felt pampered, beautiful, and confident. I am so grateful for their incredible work, and I would recommend them to anyone looking for a dream team to make their wedding day truly special.
Thank you, Sharron and Emma, for making me feel like the best version of myself on the most important day of my life!
Wedding catering
Spindle Catering
We cannot praise Spindle Catering in Tuddenham, Suffolk enough for the exceptional service, dedication, and absolutely delicious food they provided on our wedding day. From start to finish, they went above and beyond to ensure that our catering experience was nothing short of extraordinary.
From the moment we met with head chef, Lee Bye and his exceptional Spindle Catering team, it was clear that they were dedicated to creating a menu that was perfectly tailored to our tastes and the theme of our wedding. They took the time to understand exactly what we were looking for, offering expert advice and crafting a bespoke menu that exceeded all of our expectations.
Our guests were treated to a culinary delight, starting with Norfolk smoked salmon truffle bellinis and hand-raised beef crostini for the canapés. Each bite was a burst of flavour that left everyone wanting more. The main event—a Suffolk Hog roast paired with rotisserie Suffolk chicken—was a true highlight. The meat was cooked to perfection, juicy and tender, and the accompanying sides were equally impressive. Every element of the menu was thoughtfully prepared and made our taste buds come alive.
Our guests were raving about the food, and many mentioned it was some of the best they’d ever had at a wedding. The Spindle Catering team was not only skilled in the kitchen but also exceptionally friendly and professional. Their attention to detail and commitment to ensuring everything was perfect did not go unnoticed. They anticipated our needs, provided seamless service throughout the evening, and even served a late-night snack to keep our dancing guests fueled into the night. We are incredibly grateful for the effort and care they put into making our wedding day so special.
Having Spindle Catering nearby is truly a blessing, and we feel so fortunate to have had them as part of our big day. We cannot recommend them highly enough—if you’re looking for a catering team that delivers phenomenal food and impeccable service, Spindle Catering is the one to choose! Thank you for making our wedding unforgettable!
A stunning summer wedding (because we all need ALL the sunshine right now!) for Lois and Josh. This is ever so beautiful: the stunning couple chose Shortmead House wedding photographer Damien Vickers to capture their day, and gave him an amazing review in their English Wedding Interview! Damien’s an experienced wedding photographer based in Cambridge and covers the whole of the UK and Europe photographing weddings in his natural, authentic and timeless style. Watch out for breathtaking florals and super cute styling touches, with moments of joy and laughter where every single guest gets involved in celebrating this gorgeous wedding!
Wedding photographer’s website
Damien Vickers https://www.damienvickersphotography.co.uk
Wedding photographer review
When planning our wedding, finding the right photographer was a top priority. We wanted someone who could not only capture the moments but also the emotions and energy of the day. Damien exceeded all our expectations with this. From the moment he arrived, Damien blended seamlessly into the celebration. His unobtrusive style allowed us to enjoy every moment while he worked his magic behind the lens. We hardly noticed he was there, yet he managed to capture the highlights of our wedding perfectly. Damien has an incredible ability to capture candid moments that show the true energy and excitement of the occasion. Beyond his technical skills, Damien was also a pleasure to work with. He was professional, attentive, and genuinely invested in making our day special. His passion for photography shines through in his work, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. If you’re looking for a photographer who will capture the energy and excitement of your wedding day, we highly recommend Damien. His photos will allow us to relive our wedding day for years to come.
Your best wedding moment or memory
Our wedding was unforgettable, filled with special moments shared with our family and friends. The surprise of a singing waiter from Silver Service Singers after our meal brought so much fun, and seeing everyone enjoying themselves was amazing and it was a perfect transition into the evening reception. We also really enjoyed the journey from the church to our reception venue. It was so nice to have some time together and really soak up the feeling of being newlyweds. We used a company called Lucky Penny Cars and we hired their VW beetle and VW camper van for our bridal party.
Tell us anything you did differently – we love hearing about NEW traditions (or none at all!)
We wanted our wedding to really reflect us and the things we love. Instead of the usual setup, we opted for a sweetheart table, allowing us to share some time together and to catch up on all of the moments the other person may have missed. We also switched things up by having speeches during welcome drinks, creating a relaxed and informal atmosphere. For a fun twist, we had the cutest ice cream van serve gelato for canapés (company was called ice baby) which was lovely as the weather was perfect for ice cream. We are both hairdressers and we were so lucky to be gifted to us from Denman Brush mini hair brush key rings which all of our guests love.
Videographer name + review
OWP Videography
Olly was incredible on our wedding day. We trusted him completely, and he delivered beautifully. Even though we haven’t seen the full edit yet, the teaser video gave us all of the highlights and perfectly captured the energy of our celebration. We highly recommend him to anyone looking for a talented and reliable videographer.
Venue name + review
Shortmead House. Shortmead House stood out as a unique venue with stunning grounds and an amazing outdoor pool. We wanted a relaxed wedding reception after our church ceremony and they offered us the flexibility to make it truly ours. Esme, Lee, and Linda were fantastic both on the day and in the weeks leading up to it. We received so many compliments on the venue, we were so lucky that the sun was shining it and having a cocktail or two by the pool felt like we were abroad!
Tell us a little about your outfits – both of you!
Our wedding colours were blue, white, and peach. We chose pale blue for the bridesmaids’ dresses and navy for the groomsmen. Josh wore a dusky blue suit with a floral Liberty tie to complement the theme perfectly. Lois’ dress was made by a designer called Madi Lane in the style ‘Jenica’.
Dress or suit shop name + review
Dolly’s bridal boutique
Dolly’s Bridal Boutique helped me find the perfect wedding dress. As someone who’s 5 feet tall, I was really nervous that I wasn’t going to find anything that suited me but they made me feel so at ease and offered so many great tips and options. After trying on a few dresses, they found my dream gown! I had the nicest experience, and they made me feel so special.
Florist name + review
Flowers by Louise.
Louise went above and beyond with our wedding flowers. She truly brought our vision to life with her attention to detail and knowledge of shapes and colour palettes. Even at the very start of the wedding process Louise sent over a detailed mood board of ideas so we knew straight away our flowers would be in good hands! On the day you could tell that every arrangement was thoughtfully crafted and we received so many compliments on them! Her creativity made our day even more beautiful than we could have imagined. We highly recommend Louise to anyone in need of a talented and attentive florist.
Cake maker name + review
Kelly’s cake kitchen
Kelly’s Cake Kitchen made our beautiful wedding cake. We chose Belgian chocolate and lemon with fresh lemon curd. It was decorated with white buttercream, pale blue details, fresh flowers, and tiny sugar pearls. Since we were honeymooning in Florida, she added a white Cinderella and a hidden Mickey Mouse among the pearls. It was delicious!
Any crafty projects or homemade styling touches?
We designed all our stationery using Canva, including our RSVPs through the website With Joy. We also created wedding newspapers for our guests, as well as all signage like the table plan, welcome sign, and name cards. We made our own crisp wall with pallets and a Polaroid stand. Lois’ mum baked all the brownies for our dessert table and made individual biscuits as favours for the guests, which were a big hit and we loved trialling all of the flavour options for the brownies.
First dance song? Playlist recommendations?
Our first dance was Tenerife Sea by Ed Sheeran. Lois’ sister created the perfect playlist for the wedding morning and during dinner we had acoustic Disney classics!
Hair + makeup name + review
Adam Lee & Thomas Savage @adam_amhair & @thomas_amhair Adam and Thomas are two of our best friends and we are so lucky that they did the hair for Lois and the bridesmaids. Lois opted for a half up half down style with soft waves and the bridesmaids had a textured low bun or a half up half down style. It was incredibly special to have them there that morning and we all loved our hair. @Makeupby__erin Erin did our makeup for Lois, her maid of honour, and her mum on the morning of the wedding. She made us all feel like princesses, (and now we want to buy all the products she used.) Her professionalism and skill were exceptional. Our make-up was still perfect by the end of the day. @luciapiarosa_beauty Lucy did all our nails before the wedding and did all of the makeup for our bridesmaids. They all looked so beautiful and they were made to feel extra special!
Content creator
We also booked Amy who is a content creator (@amyleighsocials) We hired a content creator to capture all the little moments of the day. It was wonderful to see the event from a different perspective, and having all the content available within 24 hours was incredibly convenient!
During our welcome drinks we had musicians Cara Beard & Joey Hanson to help create a chilled and relaxed atmosphere in the sun. They are both so talented and really set the tone for the reception. (@carabeardmusic & @joeyhanson_)
