These two lovebirds let their stylish venue do the talking, while they did all the celebrating with their friends and family.
There's something so instantly sophisticated about black and white photography. Even the most shocking snaps of your mates down the pub suddenly look classy, and arty when the colour is taken away. And when it comes to professional photography, when the skill level is obviously much higher, the results are incredible. Which is just what we thought when we saw these very chic shots of our real wedding couple, Caroline and Michael, on their big day at Channels Estate, Essex.
If you haven't come across Channels Estate in your wedding venue search yet, it's really worth a visit if you're looking for a picturesque Essex spot to tie the knot. On site, they have a beautifully restored 17th-century thatched barn which provides an idyllic setting for receptions. While the tranquil surroundings, with its babbling fountains, and avenue of mature trees provide the perfect places for outdoor drinks and portraits. They also have a spectacular outdoor event space known as 'The Church Without A Roof'. A spacious garden-style area with antique wooden pews on either side of a paved aisle leading toward a charming pavilion. One of the sweetest outdoor wedding venues to tie the knot in Essex!
Keeping in mind how elegant a venue Channels Estate is, our bride Caroline needed a gown that would match her stunning backdrop. And boy did she find one! Declan by Justin Alexander. An effortlessly modern fit and flare with a sleek, sexy and clean overall look. Crafted from a flattering stretch crêpe, this stunning style accentuates the figure, and celebrates curves with its princess seams on the front and back. A modern square neckline with spaghetti straps leading to a low and open sexy back finishes the look.
Caroline Ties the Knot with Michael at Channels Estate in Chelmsford, Essex
Today we're so pleased to be sharing the delightful pics of Caroline & Michael's big day, along with a few words from our bride about the celebrations, and her gown.
How did you two meet?
Mutual friends. He (Michael) was the year above me at school, so I already knew who he was. He was the cute little joker of the year. We have been together for almost 10 years!
How did you get engaged?
On January 24th (Michael's 30th birthday!) in Tenerife, on a bench overlooking the sea after a wonderful dinner (and bottle of wine).
What was your favourite moment from the wedding?
How everyone was smiling from start to finish. It was the most fun, chill, happiest day of our lives, so far.
Tell us all about your wedding dress. What details do you love, how did it make you feel?
The back is just to die for. It is simple, but effective, and really suited my body shape. The style was EXACTLY what I had pictured in my head for my wedding dress.
What was the general decor for your big day?
Our decor was white but simple. The wedding venue (Channels Estate) just spoke for itself, so we felt we didn't need to put lots of decoration in to make it look stunning.
Do you have any advice for future Bellissima Brides?
The saying, 'it goes so fast' really is true. My advice is to enjoy the planning and the day. Don't overdo it, it's not worth it as you won't even notice it during the day, as you'll be enjoying it all too much with your new husband, friends, and family.
Choose a wedding venue that does the work for you. This helped ALOT as I was then able to enjoy the day before with my mum and sisters, and the morning of the wedding, when getting ready, as I knew everything was in hand with the venue.
Also, the crisp wall, yes you heard it correct, crisp wall!! That was a huge hit with my friends and family, who are all borrowing the stand off of me (my wonder of a father-in-law built it for me).
Plan time for pictures. My photographer only did 40 mins worth of photos, which, we felt, was amazing, as we could enjoy more of the day. Our photographer also took us off just before dessert for 15 mins to get some wonderful sunset shots. Which was also ideal as Michael and I could have a quick catch up. So deffo recommend your photographer to do that!
Do you have any local suppliers you would like to recommend?
I did everything myself, but we did hire a band called the Electric Ocean (from Colchester) and they were fantastic! Their DJ service was great too. Everyone was on the dance floor all night long, which was precisely what we wanted for our big day!
How was your Bellissima experience?
10000/10 – I will recommend you forever! You were recommended to me by 4 different people, and I understand why! The range of dresses, the beautiful shop, you can tell all of you just love your job. That nothing is a bother to you to ensure your Bellissima brides are happy. Thank you for everything! 🙂