Real Wedding – Natasha and Henry’s winter wonderland
Real Wedding – Natasha and Henry’s winter wonderland
Back in December 2018, Natasha and Henry tied the knot at the stunning Thorpe Manor in Oxfordshire. The venue was special to them in more ways than one; Henry inherited the house in 2013 and since then he and Natasha had set about directing and managing extensive renovation work to bring the Manor back to its former glory. After more than two years of careful and loving restoration, this Grade II listed Georgian Manor was re-born and was ready to open its doors again; this time as an exclusive private hire venue. You can read more about the fascinating history of the Manor and see its incredible transformation here.
Natasha’s big day started as all good days do, with a glass (or two) of champagne.
She got ready with her Mum and her bridesmaids in the bridal suite at the house, with Katie-Jane Whitlock and the team from Bridal Hair UK working their magic on the girls’ hair and make-up. Natasha even had a visit from a couple of special guests…
Her stunning dress was made by Hayley Paige and was even more breathtaking in real life. I distinctly remember delivering Natasha and her maids’ bridal flowers whilst the gang were getting ready; everyone was so excited and happy – no visible nerves at all! Tash didn’t stop smiling once and Dave Watts, her wedding photographer, captured her mood so wonderfully in these images.
Flanked by her parents and her best friends, Natasha made the short walk out of the drive and across the path to Thorpe Mandeville’s parish church. For the first time, she was able to see the wintery half arch the team and I created to run up the side of the front door; full of berried ivy, grevillea, hibiscus, mimosa and glittering ferns.
The atmosphere was as joyful as ever, with the weather kindly ensuring that everyone’s outfits, hair and make-up remained on point! For her bridesmaids, Natasha opted for these stunning Alara gowns in navy, created by the wonderful team at TH&TH.
After the service, it was back to the house for more champagne and canapés provided by Indulgence Boutique Hospitality; glasses of something hot and mulled were even on offer for anyone who might need warming up! Guests mingled in the hallway, bar and drawing room areas, and had a first glimpse of the floral stairway that I added the finishing touches to whilst they were in the church.
With warm bellies, the guests then made their way out of the house, and down the festooned walkway into the twinkling Papakata sperry tent at the bottom of the garden for speeches, dinner and dancing. All the details for the day were meticulously thought out by Natasha, with the help of local planner and stylist Kerry Poulter.
Once inside the marquee, the wedding party was treated to yet more culinary delights from Indulgence, with entertainment provided by Wedding Smashers; I have it on good authority that they most certainly brought the party!
A magical day for a truly special couple. One year anniversary party anyone…?!
