Rachel’s hair is divine — with twists of the prettiest wildflowers in a beautiful braid. The love in Eugene’s eyes is there for all to see. This is an inspiring and wonderful wedding in every way imaginable. Watch out for the ice cream and the bubbles too! Thank you to Rachel and Eugene for writing a little wedding report, and to wedding photographer Simon Biffen for sharing their day with us all at English Wedding Blog. Enjoy today’s little sprinkling of beauty. Claire xxx
Rachel and Eugene’s wedding with waves — St Donat’s Castle
“We organised the wedding from Australia and wanted a venue which was simple to organise and minimal fuss, but characterful and close to home and family in Wales, to perfectly blend with our interests and tastes.
We both love the outdoors and the sea, so the striking views of the Bristol Channel and Devonshire hills across the water with the dramatic Welsh cliffs completed this element.
The romantic and fairytale vision was set in the 13th Century St Donat’s Castle in Wales, with Renaissance, tiered gardens, and a short walk down to the beach. The Castle Hall was decorated with fresh wild flowers picked straight from the garden, high rustic beams, natural wooden flooring and tall enchanting windows.
The flowers were inspired from the Groom’s grandmother’s wedding bouquet, a tear drop flowing shape with natural subtle flowers for the bridesmaids. The duck egg silk blue bridesmaids dresses were detailed with a delicate side panel of beads; and a Mum’s homemade ivory tiered flower girl dress with matching basket, which all complemented the hand sewn beads embedded into the lace on the bride’s dress with an elegant, dreamy long train.
The bride accessorized with a bohemian style braid entwined with flowers in her hair, handmade South African freshwater pearls made by her Mother and carried her Mothers ‘something borrowed’ own wedding Parasol.
The relaxed feel was completed with a Mediterranean style hot carvery buffet, with local Welsh beef carvery leg, traditional Spanish paella, hand carved honey roast gammon with a mustard glaze and caramelized apple and a 1960’s ice-cream tricycle.
The day was everything we could have wished for, a wedding with waves… in a castle by the sea with all our family and friends. Not to forget the young, funky Brazilian band who rocked the party.“
St Donat’s Castle wedding: recommended suppliers
- Venue: St Donat’s Castle, Atlantic College, Llantwitt Major, Vale of Glamorgan. S. Wales
- Catering: Town and Country Hotels Outside Catering– http://www.townandcountrycatering.co.uk
- Bouquets: Bloomin Stylish, Pencoed, South Wales http://www.bloominstylish.co.uk
- Photographer: Simon Biffen Photography
- Groomsmen Suits Hire: Moss Bross, Bridgend, McArthur Glenn Designer Outlets, South Wales
- Bridesmaid Dresses: Josephine Beaded Dress, Coast
- Shoes: Rainbow www.lightinabox.com
- Jewellery, Cake & Flower girl’s dress: Mother of the Bride
- Hair and Makeup: Friends
- Music: Soul Fiesta www.soulfiestalive.co.uk