Real Weddings HEVER CASTLE
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or Natalie and Shibby a wedding in the countryside was a must, and Hever Castle in Kent seemed a natural choice. Not only was this a great location for a party, but for Natalie the castle also held wonderful recollections. “I had all sorts of fond memories from childhood, both of family visits and school trips." As this was a high-summer wedding, they chose the picturesque Italian Garden. The combination of lakeside Loggia and Guthrie Pavilion offers a little slice of Italy in the Kent countryside, and with superb views to the castle. Organisation took place over nine months and was very much a family affair, with Natalie and Shibby’s parents acting as a sounding board. “We enjoyed the planning process, although at times it could be stressful. There were so many decisions to be made that it was really valuable to have this family support,” says Natalie. The weather was perfect on the day – warm, but not too warm – and this meant that their guests could enjoy the castle’s beautiful garden setting. The restrained and elegant colour theme was perfectly in tune with the season and the location, featuring pale pinks, whites and greens – including lovely sage-green gowns for Natalie’s adult bridesmaids. Shibby and his groomsmen wore smart blue suits with white buttonholes and sage-green ties. Pamela Brise, florist in residence at Hever Castle, created displays using this theme. Her skill and knowledge of the castle buildings meant she knew exactly how to highlight the romantic architectural features of the Loggia, winding garlands around its pillars and
We loved our first dance. It was wonderful to be on the dancefloor just having fun and feeling relaxed dressing its elegant wall urns with lush blooms. Complementary flowers dressed the delectable five-flavour tiered cake from leading London craft baker Konditor & Cook. Natalie’s stunning wedding dress, headpiece and veil were from Caroline Castigliano’s Knightsbridge atelier and she opted for a timeless ballgown shape (the Andrea), combining a crepe satin bodice with full organza skirt and beaded Belle belt. “I loved the whole experience of working with the team at Caroline Castigliano and couldn’t have been happier with my choice of gown,” she says. Her shoes were from Emmy London – perfect romantic wedding heels to match a fairytale gown. Originally Natalie’s father was going to be the master of ceremonies for the ABSOLUTELY-WEDDINGS.CO.UK
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