We met at the Oxo Tower the next morning. I'd never heard of the company she mentioned - Candy Anthony. As we entered the showroom, there was the most gorgeous Fifties-style evening gown on a mannequin. The the Brummie popped into the changing room, and came out in just the sweetest little gown ever. Fitted bodice with cute capped sleeves, huge full skirt with massive net petticoat, duchess satin underneath covered in sweet polka dot net. Stylish but fun - just like the Brummie. I filled up (naturally). She looked stunnning. Once the fitting was over, we grabbed a quick bite in Canteen, then she went back to work.
Found a gorgeous Fifties suit myself at Alexandra Palace Antiques Fair. Burnt red chinese satin wiggle dress with bow and a bolero jacket. Topped off with a vintage (second-hand, should I say?) faux mink stole in chocolate brown and peep-toe suede chocolate brown platforms. Perfect winter wedding stuff.
The big day arrived. I got to Heath Hall Farm (my b&b for the night) and met up with Bee. Gorgeous place. Cats, dogs, creatures running wild everywhere:
We got the wellies on, and went off for a walk before getting ready. Lovely surroundings - this bit of Surrey really feels like you're nowhere near London. And then we got togged up in our finest and went to the venue.
Cain Manor is in Churt - a pretty manor house, recently renovated with fine grounds set in lovely open countryside. We entered the main house - large cosy reception area. Guests were already gathering. Such good fun to catch up with old friends, and also the girls we'd just met up with on the hen do. After a short while, we were all ushered into the ceremony room, and sat waiting for the entrance of the bride.
The strains of Vetiver's "I Must Be In A Good Place Now" lilted gently over the heads of everyone, and The Brummie entered the room. I promptly started blubbing like a big baby. She looked so happy, and that frock was a real winner. The ceremony was pretty quick. Giles (best man) pulled off what must surely be one of the finest stunts ever. He got the wedding rings out of his pocket in a paper bag, and proceeded to do the Eric Morecambe trick with Screwy. The Brummie had no idea this was going to happen. Hilarious.
The rest of the day is a bit of a blur. The speeches were great - Giles was very funny, but without a doubt, the sweetest speech was by Josh, Brummie's nephew. He had given her away earlier in the day, and for a 17 year old to give such a nicely worded and smart speech is a credit to him and his family. Total sweetheart. Other highlights of the day included:
- first dance by the bride and groom - Islands In The Stream by Kenny and Dolly - quality
- personalised gifts on each place setting (how thoughtful?)
- sambucca madness
- video diary style chat from all the guests (what was Charlie up to???)
- Kieran McG in patent high heels - one of the freakiest things I've ever seen
- the bride insisting on showing me her knickers - whilst on the dancefloor
All in all, a cracking day, for one of the most wonderful pair of people I know.
