The question was popped during Rebeca's first trip to Cornwall. After serenading her with 'You and Me' by the Dave Matthews Band, Tom proposed on the waterline at Constantine Beach. "I gave her a 2p gummy sweet ring in a ring box as a playful gesture and took her to choose a ring in Truro," he says.
With its stunning views across the ocean, Bedruthan Steps Hotel proved the perfect reception venue for the sea-loving souls and their relaxed, fun-filled celebrations. Seeking fresh, simple and natural country colours, they settled on a palette of lavender, green and white. "We used a lot of candles from St Eval Candle Company to set a cosy, intimate mood," says Rebeca.
The ceremony took place at Truro Register Office. "We had our close family and friends there and, to the sounds of Bob Marley and The Beatles, we got married," recalls Rebeca. The couple then headed to Mawgan Porth where they revelled in some private time together on the beach during their photo shoot.
A champagne reception preceded the delicious feast. "We aimed for a Mediterranean feel with very light foods and picky bits, trying to cover both the Brazilian and British palates," says Rebeca. Dishes included smoked prawns, braised beef bourguignon, pan-fried bream and mushroom risotto followed by a selection of mini desserts.
The party atmosphere was punctuated with memorable details, from Tom reading a speech in Portugese to the gifts for each guest: Havaianas flip-flops and CDs with the couple's favourite music. Rebeca's Brazilian friends who couldn't attend the wedding also sent a DVD of messages.
While the couple composed play lists for various moments of the reception, a talented guitarist friend and conga drummer set the perfect vibe. "They had everyone dancing and vibing. It was truly magnificent," Rebeca reflects.
An impromptu honeymoon took the newlyweds to Italy's Amalfi Coast. Looking back, they pick their most memorable moment. "Getting married at the register office with all our family was so special." And their top tips? "Don't think too much about what people expect or what is seen as an appropriate wedding. Do it your way: make it wacky, personal and don't be afraid to do something a little different."
The venue
Bedruthan Steps Hotel, Mawgan Porth
01637 860555 www.bedruthan.com
The dress
Fraser Jones from House of Fraser
www.houseoffraser.co.uk
The flowers
Roses and Rascals
01841 532577 Rosesandrascals@googlemail.com
Photography
Green Photographic
07966 613086 www.greenphotographic.com
Copyright WED Magazine 2012
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