Niall popped the question on a sun-drenched North Devon beach. "We were very lucky as were treated to the most glorious sunset that night which made it even more special," comments Amelia.
The pair instantly fell for the beautiful setting of Monks Withecombe, with its picture-perfect English country garden and views across Dartmoor. World Inspired Tents' tipis perfectly set the tone for their relaxed woodland wedding. The day's base colours were white and pale pink with a touch of blue, while touches of tartan signified Niall's Scottish roots.
Flowers were central to the look, and a multitude of beautiful blooms dressed the party space, from roses and ranunculi to lisianthuses and delphiniums. "We added hanging birdcages from the ceiling of the tipis with ivy trailing down which gave the impression of floral chandeliers," says Amelia.
Her dreamy St. Patrick gown was customised with a multitude of dainty details and her bouquet - a pretty cluster of white and soft pink blooms - typified the English country garden and woodland mood. Meanwhile, Niall's dapper kilt and jacket reflected the Scottish dimension of the day.
A friend's performance made for a standout moment during the church ceremony. "Our close friend Aurelia Boase sang a traditional New Zealand love song called 'Pokarekare Ana', which was incredibly romantic and moving," reflects Amelia. Guests then arrived at Monks Withecombe to a Pimm's, champagne and tea party and a local fiddler and accordion.
The menu was chosen to reflect the couple's heritage - Amelia was born in New Zealand and Niall in Scotland - alongside some local ingredients. Heralded by bagpipes played by Niall's uncle, guests feasted on the likes of gravlax, lamb rump and a dessert trio of kiwi and passion fruit pavlova, chocolate tiffin with Maltesers and marshmallows as the wedding cake and New Zealand hokey pokey ice cream.
An interactive set from live band 29 Fingers - which included several songs in fancy dress and guests joining in on additional instruments - went down a storm.
"As the evening drew to a close, we remember looking out at everyone and they were all smiling, cheering, dancing and looked like they were having the time of their lives!" reflects Amelia on a standout memory. "It was so special for us to have all our friends and family with us, who had travelled from all over the world, looking so happy!
As for advice for couples in the throes of planning, Niall advises: "It's your day so listen to what everyone advises you to do and then do what you want anyway!" Amelia adds: "Try not to stress too much about the weather, it will be a fabulous day regardless!"
Photography Sarah Lauren Photography
Venue Church of St. Michael the Archangel, Chagford followed by Monks Withecombe www.weddingsatmonks.co.uk
Dress St. Patrick from Surrey Brides www.surreybrides.co.uk
Bridesmaid dresses www.coast-stores.com www.monsoon.co.uk
Make-up www.amorehealthandbeauty.com
Flowers Amy's Flowers www.amysflowerschagford.co.uk
Entertainment 29 Fingers www.29-fingers.co.uk
Copyright Wed magazine 2014
