When Chloe and I started planning our wedding, we wanted a day that was as unique as it was personal. The Watershed cinema in Bristol was perfect – a quirky, character-filled venue that gave us a truly magical backdrop, even though we’d never actually been there before!
We kicked off the morning in a classic-coloured townhouse Airbnb in Bristol, where my bridesmaids and I had hair and make-up done by the amazing Nala and Knot. With my bridesmaid Jamie Ri as both friend and floral genius, she’d designed simple yet elegant arrangements: single roses with white ribbon bows for each bridesmaid and matching bouquets of roses with black velvet bows for Chloe and me.
We did our “first looks” with those dearest to us – my mum, brother, bridesmaids, and Chloe’s parents – before we headed off to take couple portraits, bridesmaid photos, and a few special shots with our dog, Bear. This meant we could later spend the entire cocktail hour with our guests.
All our guests arrived at the Watershed cinema dressed in black, bringing a sense of elegance to the day. Chloe and I made our entrances under a popcorn toss by the bridesmaids, adding a fun twist. We had hidden our rings under a guest’s seat, and our friend Kate Ventress, who found them, became our impromptu ring bearer!
Our friend Catherine officiated a heartwarming ceremony, with meaningful readings by our friends Ian and Laura. We also played a video of our registry, filmed in June, on the big screen. Seeing it there with our guests made the moment unforgettable.
Afterwards, we gathered outside for confetti and group photos by the harbour, capturing Bristol’s iconic skyline. Then it was off to Armada House for the reception.
During the cocktail hour, Caleb James Music serenaded everyone with country bangers, while my bridesmaids served delicious canapés made by Jess Reid- Chinese supermarket spring rolls!
Then it was time for speeches, including a surprise one. Every guest’s name was put into a hat, and I “randomly” picked Mike – our pre-planned “victim” who had everyone in stitches with one of the best speeches I’ve ever heard! But in actual fact, there was no hat, and Mie was not a random choice! But in order to pretend I had done so, I pulled my place name into my pocket from my table and pretended it had his name on it- mostly because I forgot the hat!
Dinner was a delicious Caribbean spread, and Mercury Sax took everyone from the main room to the bar for a reset. When the room was ready, Chloe surprised me with our first dance song – What Dreams Are Made Of by Hilary Duff – a joyful surprise that left everyone singing along.
We continued with a silent disco, featuring playlists of country, 00s hits, and alternative. Jess Reid had set up a mashed potato bar with all the trimmings, and Chloe crafted most of the desserts, along with a couple of cakes from Costco.
We ended the night with everyone singing Taylor Swift’s Love Story on their headsets – the perfect end to a day filled with love, laughter, and countless unforgettable moments. It was our dream day, uniquely ours in every way.
Victoria Crocker and Sophie Collins were our talented photographers, and later, I had the joy of editing those shots myself. Jon Warr’s videography captured every laugh and tear, preserving memories we’ll cherish.
If you fancy taking a look at the full gallery; be my guest! Full gallery
MY WIFE: @cloealex
1st shooter: @victoriacrockerphotography
2nd shooter: @sophiecollinsphotography_
Videographer: @jwarrphoto
Florals: @flowersbyjamie
Hair and MUA: @nalaandknot
My dress: @asos
Chloe’s dress: @chichiclothing
Nails: @han.paints.nails
My bows and veil: @1940bridal
Mash potato bar chef: Jess Reid
Sax: @mercury.sax
Rings: @astridandmiyu
Venue: @w_shed and @armadahousebristol
Confetti: @yourconfetti
Singer: @calebjamesmusician
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