Five years later, after an informal proposal during a dog walk on Perranporth beach, the couple began planning a wedding in the citrus grove of the Eden Project's Mediterranean Biome.
"We wanted to celebrate our marriage with an informal party with our dearest family and friends around us. So we decided to throw the rule book out of the biome and do it our way," explains Zoe. Opting for a relaxed, beachy and natural vibe, a palette of blues, tans, whites and greys painted the details of the day. "The Mediterranean biome is such an amazing venue that it didn't need much decoration. We hung lace bunting around the food decking area and sprinkled the tables with seashells," she says. The celebration was awash with personal touches crafted by the couple and their family, including the stationery, cake toppers and favours (chutney for the men and shell chimes for the ladies).
Though flowers were already in abundant supply courtesy of the beautiful backdrop, Zoe chose a seasonal, natural hand tied posy in shades of green, blue, white and blush to complement her beautiful, knee-skimming dress.
Likewise, the venue provided the personal ceremony with a magical soundtrack - "Hearing the birds singing in the citrus grove as we said our vows was beautiful." The musical element of the ceremony culminated in the couple's favourite moment of the day: "walking down the aisle as Mr and Mrs to ELO's 'Mr. Blue Sky' with all our friends and family cheering, laughing, clapping and singing."
After a drinks reception, guests feasted on belly pork and Eden chutney served in an Eden baguette, falafel and yogurt in pitta, chicken breast marinated in Mediterranean spices and polenta dipped mackerel. For dessert, Cornish cream teas and wedding cake - a three-tiered Victorian sandwich - were served.
Commencing with a reworking of 'The Power of Love' for the first dance, four-piece live band Blues Power performed a selection of swing and rock 'n' roll tunes into the evening, while pasties and spectacular cake of cheese kept hunger at bay.
Zoe has some wise words for other couples caught up in the planning process: "Relax and don't get hung up on those tiny details. The day will whizz past in a blink of an eye so enjoy every minute of it."
The venue
Eden Project, St Austell
01726 811988 www.edenproject.com
The dress
Venus Bridal
www.venusbridal.com
The flowers
The Eden Flower Fairies
01726 811988 www.edenproject.com
Photography
Khalile Siddiqui
07773 282319 www.weddingphotographyincornwall.co.uk
Copyright WED Magazine 2012
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