Wedding at Buckland Tout-Saints, Devon

Cliff Top Charm

A relaxed seaside vibe, a pastel palette and handmade décor was the order of the day for Elena and Alex’s chic coastal wedding. The couple had been together for over six years when Alex proposed one morning during a beautiful beachside stroll on a trip to South Africa.



They decided on the beautiful backdrop of Buckland Tout-Saints as a setting for their ceremony and, determined to celebrate before sea views, they settled on a cliff top marquee reception at Mount Folly Farm. “It had the most stunning views of Bantham Beach and Bigbury-on-Sea,” Elena comments.



The spring celebration blended pastel colours with a hint of vintage style. Elena wore a champagne Ian Stuart dress, which she customised herself. The purple bridesmaid gowns and dark grey suits were complemented by bouquets of vintage purple and cappuccino roses, white ranunculus, lavender, lily of the valley and purple hydrangea. Silk flower specialists Flourish provided matching floral decorations for the ceremony room and top table.



Both Elena and Alex poured their creativity into crafting a series of DIY details, including bunting, driftwood and shell mobiles, a wishing well for cards, a surfboard for guests to sign and teacup candles, which lent a magical atmosphere to the evening reception.



Their ceremony continued in this highly personalised vein, with two close friends providing the music: Adam played the piano as Elena walked down the aisle and Jake performed an acoustic song that he had written especially for the pair as they departed as husband and wife.



After enjoying a ride in a VW campervan, the newlyweds joined their guests at the marquee for a Pimm’s and canapé reception. In keeping with the relaxed beachside feel, the pair opted for a communal feast served on platters for the wedding breakfast. “Our guests could share what was on their table – a great idea because there was lots of food, choice, and no buffet queue!” says Elena. Guests dined on honey-roasted ham, salmon, stuffed chicken and salads, and lemon meringue, chocolate tart and red summer fruits for dessert.





A table full of vintage sweets, cupcakes and cakes ensured sweet toothed guests were satisfied, while a tipi tent containing storybooks, soft toys, colouring books and balloons provided amusement for their child guests. Guests were grooving on the dance floor until late thanks to an upbeat performance from live band Crowns and their DJ friend’s play list of party tunes.



After their fabulous day, Elena and Alex enjoyed a honeymoon of two halves in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.



“Don't forget to stay calm!” Elena advises other brides. “Have as many personal touches as you can. Although it is more effort, it’s the little things you and your guests will remember.” She adds, “Stand back and take in as much as you can with your new husband.”



The venue
Buckland Tout-Saints, Kingsbridge
01548 853055 www.tout-saints.co.uk

The dress
Ian Stuart
www.ianstuart-bride.com

The flowers
H. Watts Florist
01752 403617 www.hwattsflorist.co.uk

Flourish
01752 492976 www.withaflourish.co.uk

Photography
Rob Frost Photography
01579 346878 www.robfrostphotography.com

Copyright WED Magazine 2011