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Real Weddings in Cornwall and Devon

Wedding at Exeter castle, Devon

Wedding at Exeter castle, Devon

Blush of Romance



From the buzz of New York to the tranquility of a Cornish cottage, Alexa's 30th birthday festivities turned into a double celebration when Brett surprised her by popping the question. "After a trip to New York for my 30th birthday in December 2012, we arrived home where Brett had then arranged a two-night trip to Fowey (to stay in a luxury cottage that we had visited before and that we absolutely love) where he proposed on the first night," she explains.

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The couple chose to marry in the grand setting of Exeter Castle, which made a stirring backdrop for a celebration sprinkled with metallic, blush and polka dot details. Delicate blooms adorned the venue, spilling from glass vessels and arranged in small posies along the aisle, while a multitude of candles in storm lanterns, tea lights and lofty candelabras added to the glamorous aesthetic, befitting the setting.

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Alexa accessorised her dreamy Annasul Y dress with sparkling jewellery and a bouquet of soft blush and cream blooms, while her bridesmaids wore dazzling frocks embellished with sequins. Meanwhile, Brett looked sharp in a hand tailored bespoke suit teamed with a polka dot bow tie and brogues.

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Alexa and Brett took their vows in the elegant Ballroom. Charlie Hearnshaw performed a live jazz clarinet soundtrack for the drinks reception where guests supped on bubbly and nibbled on savoury canapes.

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Everyone was in for a sensational surprise after the speeches, as the Bravo Singing Waiters, who were posing as waiting staff, burst into song. After the impromptu entertainment, guests gathered outside where Paella Southwest served up paella takeaway style and guests settled on tables sparkling with chic detail and pretty blooms to enjoy the delicious flavours.

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In the evening, the first dance kicked off the dance floor shenanigans, led by Mama Stone's House Band, while bacon sandwiches hit the spot for hungry revellers.

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"My favourite moment was having the room that we had the speeches in bursting at the seams with friends and family and then their reactions to the singing waiters breaking into song following the speeches!" recalls Alexa.

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Looking back on her wedding day, Alexa has a pearl of wisdom to share for couples in the throes of planning. "Although it may not be for everyone, we personally found that not separating our day and evening (inviting all of our guests to join us from the ceremony onwards) ensured that everyone felt really included and more part of our day."

Photography Emma Solley www.emmasolley.com
Venue Exeter Castle www.exetercastle.co.uk
Catering Paella Southwest www.paellasouthwest.co.uk
Dress Annasul Y from The Ivory Secret www.theivorysecret.co.uk
Bridesmaid dresses Debut at Debenhams www.debenhams.com
Groom's outfit A Suit That Fits www.asuitthatfits.com
Flowers Poppys of Exeter www.weddingsatpoppys.co.uk
Make-up Changing Faces www.changingfaces.net
Hair Kirstie's Hair Design 01395 488084
Transport Crediton Auto Services 01363 776783
Entertainment Charlie Hearnshaw www.charliesax.co.uk
Bravo Singing Waiters www.bravosingingwaiters.co.uk
Mama Stone's House Band www.mamastoneshouseband.com

Copyright Wed magazine 2014