Heartfelt Wedding at The Great House!

My couple reached out to me quite some time ago, detailing al that they hoped for, for their special day.  It was great to have so many ideas right from the start, and we soon set about creating a wonderful script that was heartfelt, sincere, fun and memorable.

Having met at the venue and walked through the logistical elements of the ceremony, it was clear that my couple were excited for the day, but it wasn't until I arrived at the wonderful Great House in Sonning, that I could see on their faces, the relief (and excitement) that this day had finally arrived!

 

entrance

Great House Sonning Celebrant

ceremony space

 

After a lot of planning, hard work and effort, these two lovely people were about to be surrounded by everyone closest to them, and to declare how they feel about one another, and as I finalised my pre-ceremony checks, and guests began arriving, I could feel the anticipation building.

It was great to work with the lovely Jenna and her team at the venue, and to wave a quick hello to the team at Sonning flowers before they departed.  It was a delight also, to meet the lovely singer and guitarist Kelly Barnes too - what a dream team of suppliers!  As I hopped over to meet the bride I had a quick exchange with the lovely photographic team, and then chatted to the videographer about all that was about to take place. 

 

lights

flowers

fireplace

cake

 

We were all set, and eagerly awaiting the bridal party.  None more so than the groom, and he and his two best men and ushers, were busy gathering guests, and escorting them to their seats.

The ceremony room looked beautiful, with the fireplace adorned with the most incredible paper flowers!  I always say the best decoration are your guests, and no sooner had they entered the space, the place filled with smiles and excited chatter.  The best ambience anyone could ask for!

 

close up

paper flowers

 

With cues now given, it was time for all to be upstanding, and the singer began performing a special song, that the bride had arranged for the groom.  Bridesmaids began the procession, and the groom became overwhelmed with emotion, hearing this special song, and awaiting sight of his special lady.

 

kelly barnes and knight ceremonies

oos

 

As the bride and her father came into view, the guests gasped and with the whole wedding party flanking me at the front, it formed quite the welcoming party for her!  Choosing to remain in the centre until the first reading, the couple enjoyed a relaxed welcome, and I talked a little about what marriage means to them both. 

It was key that we set the tone for the guests right from the start, and so with their help, we made some promises to the couple and everyone was then seated.

 

pride and prejudice

 

 

We had two lovely readings during the ceremony, the first was by the bride's sister and Maid of Honour, and she did a wonderful job. 

The second was by the grooms mum and was shrouded with secrecy and a little surprise which had everyone in hysterics!  I cannot wait to see the official photos of this moment!

 

fireplace flowers

guest book

 

As I started to share details of the couple's story, the room fell silent, but was quickly filled with laughter, and happy tears too.

It was soon time to share their vows, and the couple had written some special words to say to each other.  I knew that this would be an emotional moment, and so with tissues at the ready, they began to declare their truest feelings.  It was beautiful, and I could see many, many family members and friends crying emotional tears.  As they sealed their special promises by exchanging rings (with the help of the two brilliant best men), I could tell that they were just itching to celebrate with a kiss, and as they did, the room erupted!

 

great house sonning celebrant knight ceremonies

signing table

 

The applause was loud, and hard for these two and each and every guests there, knew just how much this meant to them both.  What an incredible feeling it was to see just how supported they were by their loved ones.  They then signed their wedding day certificate with both sets of parents, accompanied by the amazing sounds of their singer and guitarist Kelly, and we then presented their wedding day folder to the bride's mum for safekeeping.

 

post confetti shot

 

As we brought everything to a lovely high note, and I presented them back to their guests, confetti shot up into the air, and whoops and cheers filled the space once again.

The new Mr & Mrs then headed outside for drinks with their guests on the terrace and beautiful lawns.

 

terrace

coppa private dining

 

What a wonderful day for a truly lovely couple.  Wishing you the best of love and luck for your future Mr & Mrs Pickard!

 

happy couple

 

Jenny

x

jenny knight great house sonning celebrant

(All photos in this blog taken by Jenny Knight - we can't wait to see the official pics soon!)

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Dream Team:

Venue: Jenna and her team at the Great House Sonning

Celebrant: Jenny from Knight Ceremonies

Flowers: Sonning Flowers

Singer/Guitarist: Kelly Barnes

Photographer: Lauren Mitchell

Videographer: Floating Castle Films

 

ellen and ed

ellen ed and roma

 

 


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