The lobby of the Bernards Inn had library cards with written literary quotes on them, the favors were wrapped hardback books with a short description of what the person was in for if they chose the book.
The tables were named after fictional locations in some of our favorite novels ‘221B Baker Street’ for example, with a gold animal holder holding the table name that was key to the story, for example a wolf for the 221B Baker Street.
The name cards were also animals from the book, each set different for every table.
The cake topper was in reference to Harry Potter – another favorite of ours. The words ‘Always’ with a doe and stag standing together.
The colors were pastels (blush, grey, french blue), gold and a rich navy for contrast. The table runners were a dusty rose, with the silverware and chargers being gold and the napkins navy.
The flowers were wild. Majestic rose, eucalyptus, white delphinium and pink scabiosa. The bridesmaids bouquets were simple: baby’s breath. The ribbons all had different quotes—a surprise for the bridesmaids. I asked them what their favorite quotes were beforehand, and mine had one of mine on!
The table flowers also had that wild aspect to them, and were held in vintage tins that I’d found in various places—Vermont antique stores to garage sales.
For a bit of fun, the groomsmen all wore Star Wars socks of different characters, with Brian wearing Star Wars cufflinks!
We also had to have a little fun with our guests—an American vs. Brits quiz!
Why did you choose your venue? The Bernards Inn was classically stunning. Intimate but with the ability to really put a show on. Andrea Testa, the event manager was fantastic. Incredibly flexible and would do anything to make your day special.
What was on your menu: Our wedding menu was a butternut squash soup to start, a stuffed chicken or fillet mignon for an entree and then a selection of deserts brought out on cake tiers. The cake was a traditional English Victoria Sponge Cake—delicious!
All about your gown: The gown was ivory, with a plunging lace illusion neckline and backless. I think I knew it was the one because I felt so beautiful in it. It was comfortable but a little edgy, and still had the classic “bridal” feel to it. Liancarlo really makes wonderful dresses.
What was your favorite moment? Seeing Brian when I walked down the aisle. He was smiling ear to ear! I also loved having a first look with my Dad. Last year he was diagnosed with MS, and I wasn’t sure whether he would be able to walk me down the aisle. He did, and he and I were very emotional. He is such a great man.
One detail you couldn’t live without? Although so small, it was important to me. The symbol of Manchester is a bee, so I bought the groom/groomsmens all bee pins to wear with their suits. Having to relocate, it can feel a little lonely at times not having your family and friends beside you, but seeing all the men wear them, it meant a lot.
Did anything go wrong? Not really! My husband was very hungover the next day—made the “fathers day lunch” much more interesting! Hahahaha.
First dance song? REM’s “Nightswimming”
Any advice for future brides? Enjoy, have a great time! If you’re marrying the right one, who cares if you mum is driving you up the wall or a groomsmen doesn’t have the right tie? You’re in love, that’s all that matters.