By Boat Darling!

Couple: Antonia & Piers, Manchester

Month: May 2023 - Typical Lake District… bright sunshine with random downpours!

Venue: Rayrigg Hall

Marquee: Original Marquees

Ceremony: Jesus Church, Troutbeck

Photography: Ailsa Reeve Photography

Catering: Fell and Dales

Transport: Mountain Goat

Boat: Lakeland Adventures

Cake: Lone Wolf Bakery

Entertainment: Back Chat Brass

Decoration: Greenwheat

Hair: Aqua Salon

Makeup: Emma Askew

In Brief:

I’ve learnt that to do my job well, I have to get on with my clients. From first meeting Antonia & Piers I knew this was the case. We were at ease with each other and I adored their obvious loved up vibe!

Through planning it was a delight to be on hand to help the couple with any guidance. Planning a DIY wedding in an empty field with a marquee is not simple. They had wonderful ideas though and took advice well so it all came together.

Highlights for me were the gorgeous church, dazzling arrival by boat to the site (not many people dare do that but it worked brilliantly, like movie stars!) and a brilliant lake Windermere backdrop. The team were perfect too, not just at their job but stepping up when I had to dash to the hospital to be with my Mum.

I might have missed the end of the do but it was an utter pleasure to be part of the rest!

Testimonial:

Why did you hunt for a Coordinator?

We wanted ourselves, our parents, family and friends to be able to enjoy the wedding, and know that we were in good hands if for example there was a decision to be made when we were coming to the end of the champagne at the drinks reception or anything. It was also lovely the week before that someone was co-ordinating the suppliers so you could focus on enjoying the time with your loved ones.

How did you find Annabel?

I'd read about Annabel online, but we met her while touring one of the venues she looks after. We hit it off straight away and felt she could bring our vision of a DIY wedding to life.

What made you choose Annabel for your wedding?

Her knowledge, no nonsense approach to things and support on the items that were important to us. She was there for the bride and groom 100%, and didn't worry too much about concerned mothers but happily they could pop to her on the day with any queries.

What was the most difficult part of planning a wedding?

I think we had quite a smooth planning stage, although realising we'd need a generator, water bowser and ice provided some extra thoughts which Annabel was able to guide us through with ease.

What are your key memories from the day?

It was a bit of a blur, but sitting in the church looking out through the church doors as it was raining which no one in the congregation could see or knew about as it was sunny when we left the church. Arriving by boat, drinks by the lake, the band arriving and enjoying the vibe of the day. It was full of love and fun!

Would you change anything?

I think I didn't quite realise the pictures and things might be a bit painful on the day and take a while, but they're wonderful photos and I think that's just part of being the bride and groom and wanting lots of formal photos! People also said take time to be together as a couple, which I felt we'd have on the boat but didn't really think through that there was always someone else with us. As the bride walking into the church with all your friends and family already there, there isn't much warm up so take a 10-15 minute breather when you can to take it all in. I'm happy I managed a few minutes during supper while everyone was enjoying the food and wine, and chatting away very happily. Although I was nervous people might notice at the time!

How was having Annabel there throughout the event?

Very helpful.

What advice would you give others planning a DIY style wedding?

Guests won't remember lots of bits, so focus on things that are important to you. We had a generous budget but still had to economise in some areas. Just think about where you're happy to spend a bit less and where you'd like to spend more, and in the run up for a few weeks before money doesn't matter if it'll make your life easier (within reason!). I bought some umbrellas for the day which we probably didn't need, for example, but they put my mind at rest.

Would you recommend Annabel?

Absolutely. Annabel knows what she's doing, and is generous with her time. I found Annabel the most useful as a sounding board in the run up to the day, and it was a relief to see her with a glass of champagne and some canapes for us when we arrived at the reception.

Some beautiful moments captured by Ailsa Reeve Photography