Alix & Ben’s Romantic Lake District Wedding at Broadoaks Country House

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Lake District, Alix and Ben's wedding at Broadoaks Country House was the perfect blend of understated elegance, natural beauty and plenty of personality. With the wedding venue's beautiful surroundings taking centre stage, the couple kept their décor simple and romantic, adding flickering candles and delicate touches of greenery to create an effortlessly pretty vibe.

The couple's engagement was every bit as personal and romantic as their big day, with Ben popping the question at Muncaster Castle in the Lake District after secretly carrying the ring around with him all day. With just their dog for moral support, he waited for the perfect moment as they stopped to admire the beautiful view together. Honestly, we're not sure it gets much more romantic than that!

For her walk down the aisle, Alix chose the stunning Modena gown from our very own Portofino Collection, a beautiful A-line adorned with delicate leaf-inspired appliqués and just the right amount of sparkle. Before finding 'the one', our bride knew only that she didn't want a strapless dress and could imagine herself in an A-line style. So, when she slipped into Modena, she instantly felt that lovely, girly feeling she'd been looking for. Comfortable enough to wear all day without feeling restricted, Alix adored the gown's pretty sparkle and the way it moved with her from ceremony to celebrations.

Alix & Ben's Real Wedding Q&A

1. How did you two meet?

We met on Tinder almost 8 years ago. Our first date was at Prezzo in Billericay, and we've been inseparable ever since.

2. How did you get engaged?

We got engaged at Muncaster Castle in the Lake District. He'd had the ring on him all day but waited for the perfect moment. It was just us and the dog admiring the most beautiful view.

3. What was your favourite moment(s) from the wedding?

My favourite moment from the wedding (apart from literally the entire day) was probably our first dance. It was the first time we'd had a chance to talk without everyone being able to hear us. I also loved our ceremony. We really lucked out with our registrar, and we were able to be our silly selves. Lots of people commented on how 'us' the ceremony was, which was impressive given we just had the standard ceremony script.

4. Tell us all about your wedding dress. What details do you love? How did it make you feel?

I loved my wedding dress. I went into my appointment only knowing that I didn't want strapless, and that I felt an A-line was the way to go. My dress (Modena from the Portofino Collection) made me feel girly and comfortable. I wore it all day and didn't feel restricted. Everyone loved the sparkle.

5. What was the general decor for your big day?

We were lucky enough to get married in a beautiful country hotel in the Lake District (Broadoaks Country House), so we let our wedding venue do a lot of the talking in its natural state. We had candles and some greenery, but it was all very understated and pretty.

6. Do you have any advice for future Bellissima Brides?

In terms of advice for brides in general, as easy as it is to say now, try and relax when planning and remember why you're there. In the run up to our wedding, we had a fair amount go wrong, but what kept me calm is knowing that, no matter what happened, I was leaving that day married to the love of my life.

For Bellissima brides, trust your stylist. Try on something you never expected to try on. Don't get too caught up in thinking your wedding dress needs to have a certain feature or detail. You'll know when you've found the one, and it might look nothing like you expected.

7. How was your Bellissima experience?

My Bellissima experience was fab! From the second I walked in and was greeted by Megan, I knew I was in safe hands. Amelia kept those cocktails coming, and Lucy made me feel so special when I went for my pre-fit. I was then handed over to Dale, who is an absolute superstar. He listened to all my thoughts and made it all happen. I'm sure he'll be pleased to know that his chanting of 'Don't Look Down' played over and over in my head! Ha! Your whole team are clearly so incredibly passionate about brides. I felt so looked after.