When it came to our wedding, neither my husband or I wanted a traditional day. We went to Greece with a small group of family and our closest friends. (I say 'small' it didn't turn out small - there were 80 of us in the end!) We had our ceremony on Cameo Island in Zante, followed by a Greek BBQ for our reception.
We didn't have flowers or a cake (although that was because I forgot to source the cheeses!) (I was too busy at the sambuca bar), our guests sat by who they knew, the top table consisted of both of our families, mine sat next to me and my husband's next to him. We had tea towels for wedding invites. My friend read a Lionel Richie song, the ceremony lasted about 5 minutes. My bouquet was made out of brooches. And we celebrated for two weeks.
It was a lot of fun and exactly what we wanted.
When it came to my wedding look. I wanted even less tradition. I wanted to look like myself.
I don't wear much make up and I rarely tied my hair up. I never curl it. I don't often wear jewellery. But when I do, it's big and chunky.
When we first got engaged, I was bombarded with traditional wedding ideas.
Curly up dos.
Dainty necklaces.
White, satin shoes.
I looked and looked. But it didn't matter whether it was a Choo or a Tiffany or how beautiful it all was and how amazing it looked on other people. It wasn't me.
So I looked beyond the traditional.
I went to the high street and in the end my look was exactly what I wanted.
It was me.
What I Wore
My beautiful shoes were from Young British Designers, by Sophie Gittins. I will forever be grateful to Deborah at YBD who gifted me these stunning shoes for my day. Thank you Deborah. My shoe angel.
They were exactly what I was looking for and they were so comfortable too.
I wear them with jeans and dresses on nights out now. They're a constant reminder of my special day.
I chose a necklace from Butler and Wilson. I wanted statement. I got statement!
My dress was Suzanne Neville and the Headband was by Chez Bec.
My make up was all from Mac and my sister in law who, lucky me owns her own spa and beauty salon, did my make up. I went for a simple fishtail plait and lucky me again, my Mum and close friend are hairdressers and sorted it out between them.
My bouquet was from Tiny Gems and was made out of brooches from our Grandparents and my Grandad's medal of honour. (and it's since been used at my brother's wedding and will hopefully be used at many more weddings in our family.)
I like the fact I can look back now and see who I was right there and then. Before the baby and the sleepless nights took their toll.
I can't believe it was all just 4 years ago. It seems like a lifetime ago and yesterday all at the same time.
How did you decide on your wedding day look? Come over to my Facebook page 'A Zest of Gem' and share your photos. I'd love to see them.
