The Story
We met through a dating app 8 years ago, our first date was Saturday lunch at a pub in Bermondsey, there was an immediate spark, even though Bertie felt like he couldn’t get a word in edgeways! Second, third, fourth dates and meeting friends happened shortly after and we were living together after 1.5 years. We got engaged during covid lockdowns in the garden at home, over an evening negroni and a shared cigarette – a lockdown tradition. Max loves history, so Bertie proposed with a 2000 year old roman signet ring he had sourced from an ancient art dealer in Mayfair.
Venue
Bertie’s family are from Southwold, and Max’s family are from France but now are spread across the world. When choosing a location, Southwold felt right and by chance Sibton Park/Wilderness Reserve was free the exact weekend. We had a small, family only wedding for 50 people and were able to host everyone at Sibton Park or at Bertie’s family’s house in Southwold.
Over the weekend we had multiple events for everyone to get to know each other, with an intimate service officiated by our two sisters at a nearby abandoned church called St Andrews Covehithe.
Fashion
Both of us wore made to measure navy suits from Timothy Everest, we chose this tailor because they made all the suits for the Crown which has exceptional tailoring.
Tablescape
Maria Castellanos, our talented table designer extraordinaire, worked wonders for us. Her creativity knew no bounds as she masterfully crafted distinct themes for each night, seamlessly transforming the shared space into unique and enchanting settings. Through her expert touch, the venue came alive with a symphony of colors and arrangements that left a lasting impression on our guests.
But it didn’t stop there. Our wedding favors became true works of art, thanks to the skilled hand of a local artist. Each guest received a hand-painted, personalized mug, adding a touch of local flair and individuality to the celebration. These thoughtful keepsakes not only served as a token of appreciation but also as a reminder of the special moments we shared on those magical nights. The blend of Maria’s artistic brilliance and the local artist’s craftsmanship elevated our wedding experience to new heights, creating memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Food & drink
The exquisite selection of wines at our celebration was curated with precision and passion, thanks to Bertie’s parents, esteemed members of the wine industry. Their wealth of knowledge and refined taste ensured that our guests experienced a symphony of flavors that perfectly complemented the joyous atmosphere.
One standout highlight was the Langham Brut sparkling wine, a true gem in the world of oenology. This award-winning English sparkling wine not only delighted the senses but also added a touch of sophistication to our festivities. What made it even more special was the familial connection—Langham Brut was founded by none other than Bertie’s uncle, a distinguished figure in the industry and a cherished guest at our celebration.
Honeymoon
Our journey of romance and adventure reached new heights as we embarked on the legendary Orient Express, a luxurious train that whisked us away from the enchanting streets of Paris to the romantic waterways of Venice. The rhythmic clatter of the tracks beneath us echoed the excitement in our hearts as we indulged in the opulence of this iconic rail experience.
Upon our arrival in Venice, the magic continued as we found ourselves immersed in the timeless elegance of the Gritti Palace. Nestled along the picturesque Grand Canal, this historic gem provided the perfect backdrop for a weekend of indulgence and splendor. From the opulent interiors to the unparalleled views of the Venetian landscape, every moment felt like a scene from a dream.
But the adventure didn’t end there. Our journey took us to the idyllic island of Ischia, where the sun-kissed shores and azure waters welcomed us with open arms. Exploring the charming streets, savoring local cuisine, and basking in the warm Mediterranean sun created memories that will forever be etched in our hearts.
Advice
- Choosing a venue that’s meaningful to you makes it unique, even if it’s not as glamorous.
- Doing a wedding over a weekend gives you time to spend time with everyone and lets people from different sides mingle.
- Get the party playlist right and you’ll have all generations dancing.
With thanks
Grooms: @bertietysome @mcancre
Venue: @wildernessreserve
Caterer: @wildernessreserve
Groom outfit: @timothyeverest
Florist: @southwoldflowerco @figaandco
Table styling: @mariacastellanosdesign
Photographer: @emilytylerphoto
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