Photography Dan Ward danward.co.uk Venue Tredudwell Manor tredudwell.co.uk
Esther and Miguel first met at church. “Miguel was visiting family in England and his aunt and uncle, who are the pastors, introduced us,” says Esther.
The proposal was equally meaningful, taking place in Colombia near the city where Miguel grew up, Ibagué. “It was at a beautiful restaurant in the mountains, surrounded by tropical plants and forest. He had a table decorated with hearts and photos of us together on the balcony.”
Choosing to marry in the same church where they first met, followed by a reception in the picturesque setting of Tredudwell Manor, Esther and her mum set about planning their celebration in just eight months while navigating visa paperwork so Miguel could arrive in time. “Thankfully he arrived just in time to give notice a month before the wedding!” says Esther.
A predominantly green palette ran throughout the day – from the florals to the groomswear and décor – while soft pastel tones complemented Treduwell Manor’s pastoral setting.
Floristry played a starring role, from pedestal arrangements and garlands draped along the balcony to window displays in the church and striking centrepieces of twined ivy and fairy lights woven around small vases of seasonal blooms. Miguel designed the invitations, while Esther created the seating plan. “A friend of the family also made an incredible seven-tier wedding cake, each tier a different flavour, as we couldn't decide!” she adds. “It was decorated with sunflowers and butterflies.”
The couple were married by Miguel’s uncle in a “beautiful, personal ceremony filled with funny anecdotes and happy memories,” recalls Esther. After signing the register, they sang together during the ceremony – a meaningful nod to their role leading the church band each Sunday. “It was so lovely to be able to celebrate with family, friends and everyone from the church,” she adds.
Everyone gathered at Tredudwell Manor where they savoured an “incredible” farm-to-fork sharing feast, with dishes including deep-fried chicken and scallops with roast cauliflower to start, roast porchetta for mains, and lemon tarts and chocolate brownies for dessert.
Forgoing a traditional first dance, the couple opted instead for a ceilidh band, who led guests through lively dances set to joyful, vibrant music. “It was the most amazing time, full of happiness,” says Esther. “I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so much – I wish I could do it all again, and our guests said the same!”
Looking back, the couple treasure every moment of the day. “From walking into the church and seeing all our friends and family, to seeing each other at the end of the aisle, and then celebrating together at the reception with its stunning location, delicious food and joy-filled evening – it was all so special,” says Esther. She encourages other couples to take it all in: “Try to enjoy every moment!”
As for words of wisdom, Esther encourages couples to relax and keep things in perspective. “It’s easy to overthink and over-plan, but it all goes out of the window when you see your partner at the end of the aisle. Suddenly, you don’t care if your plans go perfectly or not – you’re just filled with a happiness that carries you through the rest of the day.”
Photography Dan Ward danward.co.uk
Venue Tredudwell Manor tredudwell.co.uk
Dress Coastal Bridal coastalbridal.co.uk
Flowers Trelowen Flowers trelowenflowers.com
Entertainment Splann splann.co.uk
