Ellie and Ben got engaged at the boating lake in New York's Central Park during what can only be described as a very near miss. 'Unknown to me, it was almost scuppered by our nine-month-old son having a meltdown at several previous potential moments that day!' laughs Ellie.
Harefield Barn provided the stunning blank canvas and beautiful rural backdrop for their New Year's Eve wedding, which carried a stylish colour scheme of white and green with copper accents.
'We loved the 'New York luxe' vibes when researching, which had a slight industrial look and worked well with Ben being a scaffolder,' explains Ellie. 'He built us a ceremony arch that I then decorated with drapes and flowers, and a table plan.'
Classically glamorous touches carried throughout, from the foliage-filled centrepieces dotted with cream blooms to the elegant drapes and carnival of tea lights and fairy lights which enhanced the magical atmosphere. The bridesmaids wore chic gowns in shades of dark green and black teamed with softly waved hair, while Ellie dazzled in a gorgeous beaded gown that paired perfectly with the dapper tuxedos of Ben and his groomsmen.
Ellie cites the mid-afternoon ceremony as her highlight of the day, which was followed by drinks and canapés in the bar ahead of a fast food-style menu with an indulgent twist.
'We wanted food we love,' says Ellie. 'We chose burgers in handmade brioche buns with sides such as sweet potato fries and mac 'n' cheese, with millionaire's tart for dessert!'
Departing with other traditional elements saw Ellie ' 'being in a time of equality!' ' deliver her own bridal speech, which she lists as another unforgettable moment of the day.
A live band kept the dance floor filled all night, while roast potatoes and caramelised sausage rolls were served just ahead of midnight to keep energy levels up.
After seeing in the new year in inimitable style, carriages transported guests home in the early hours, leaving Ellie and Ben to commence the beginning of the year ' and the rest of their lives ' together.
'Get a spreadsheet on the go for budget and timings,' advises Ellie as one of her top planning tips. 'Give a schedule of the day to all of the wedding party and the venue so everyone knows their jobs. It might feel over the top but the more detail you plan, the less you have to think about on the day,' she adds.
Venue Harefield Barn harefieldbarn.co.uk
Hair Ash Salon ashsalon.co.uk
Flowers Katie Clements
Transport Apple Central Taxis appletaxisexeter.co.uk
Catering Exe Catering thesandwichshopexeter.co.uk
Entertainment Black & Gold earcandylive.co.uk/acts/black-and-gold
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