UPFRONT
WHAT BETTER PLACE TO TIE THE KNOT! HEATHER AND STUART BLACKLEY HAVE SHARED A LOVE OF BOATS FOR MANY YEARS. SO MUCH SO THAT THEY WANTED TO TIE THE KNOT ABOARD THEIR VERY OWN BOAT, KEPT IN PEEL MARINA IN THE ISLE OF MAN.
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ince the 1st August 2011, with the approval of the Chief Registrar, it has been possible for a civil marriage ceremony and/or formation of a civil partnership to take place anywhere in (or over) the Isle of Man or its territorial waters provided certain conditions are met. This legislation meant that for the first time, it was possible for a wedding ceremony to take place aboard a boat here in the Isle of Man. Peel Castle and the marina full of yachts made the perfect backdrop for a unique venue, all helped by fantastically warm and sunny weather for the Blackley’s wedding
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which took place on May 2nd. Joined by a close-knit group of friends and family; Heather and Stuart enjoyed a very private ceremony carried out by the Douglas General Registry, with a beautifully personal poem read by the Registrar, aboard the boat, already aptly named the Heather B! Instead of an aisle, Heather walked down the plank to the sound of Il Divo’s version of the theme tune to Titanic! The nautical theme continued with photographs on Peel Marina and beach followed by a fresh seafood buffet in the Peel Sailing and Cruising Club and an icing replica of the boat for a cake!
Thanks go to the following people who helped make a truly unique, wonderful and memorable day: Candy (A3 Marquees), the Combers (seafood buffet), Sarah (flowers), harbour staff, Peel Sailing & Cruising Club, Pat and David (General Registry), Simon Park (photography), Amanda Cradden (cake), friends and family who jumped in to help and celebrate.
ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE