Wedding at Hurlditch Court, Devon

Cristina and Rupert’s love story took them from a first encounter in Dubai to a beautiful country house wedding in Devon. “We were out with friends on a Thursday night in Dubai,” says Cristina. “Rupert and his friend approached us, and we spent the evening talking. We exchanged numbers and the rest is history.”

Rupert’s proposal followed in September 2020 after a day exploring the beautiful sights of North Devon. “We ended up eating strawberries and drinking Prosecco on Saunton Sands beach, watching the sun set,” reminisces Cristina of their romantic engagement.

A private Jacobean manor house on the edge of Lamerton, new wedding venue Hurlditch Court made the spectacular setting for their celebrations after a ceremony at nearby St Peter’s Church. “It is not only a beautiful venue but also great for their luxury shepherd’s huts and cottages that can accommodate the guests,” she says. “A marquee was set up in the garden.”

Cristina’s bridal gown – a stunning design made in Moldova with layers of soft tulle and statement sleeves – evoked the day’s romantic aesthetic beautifully. The soft pink bridesmaids’ dresses harmonised with the bouquets of barely-there shades, while Rupert carried a classic look in a bespoke morning suit.

Styled with a palette of white, sage green and blush pink, the marquee harmonised perfectly with the scenic setting of Hurlditch Court. “We wanted something classic with a very slight country feel,” explains Cristina. Gorgeous hanging foliage and florals, together with candlelit tables adorned with arrangements of dainty blooms, made for a dreamily romantic scene.

Such a showstopping setting demanded a special wedding breakfast – and renowned local chef John Hooker ensured the feast of locally sourced flavours was one to remember. Highlights included native lobster and scallop ravioli, spiced carrot purée and roasted lobster bisque; roasted rack of new season lamb, poached and roasted belly, baby broad beans, capers and mint; and lemon posset, Tamar Valley strawberries, honeycomb and sorrel.

The culinary delights continued in the evening, with the like of ham hock scotch eggs, British cheeses and Cornish sausage rolls with candied onion and walnut going down a treat. “Everything was absolutely delicious,” enthuses Cristina.

Such a showstopping setting demanded a special wedding breakfast – and renowned local chef John Hooker ensured the fine feast of locally sourced flavours was one to remember. Highlights included native lobster and scallop ravioli, spiced carrot purée and roasted lobster bisque; roasted rack of new season lamb, poached and roasted belly, baby broad beans, capers and mint; and lemon posset, Tamar Valley strawberries, honeycomb and sorrel.