Love and Lace: A Romantic Wedding in the English Countryside with a Gorgeous Watters Dress
Nestled in the heart of the English countryside, Charlotte and Joe's wedding was a breathtaking celebration of love, laughter, and rustic elegance. Set against the backdrop of a beautifully restored farm estate, their special day unfolded amidst picturesque landscapes, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere. Charlotte, in her exquisite lace Watters Ti Amo wedding dress, embodied timeless beauty as she walked down the aisle. Join us as we delve into the details of this magical day, where romance and countryside charm intertwined to create an unforgettable celebration.
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
The Proposal
Charlotte and Joe's love story is one that began in the hallways of their school, where they met at the tender age of 14. They shared a friendship during their school years, but it wasn’t until Joe left school to embark on an apprenticeship that their friendship turned into a relationship.
In May 2022, the couple took a trip to Norfolk, a destination that holds a special place in their hearts. It was also their first holiday with their dog, Rodney, who enjoyed his first day at the beach. After a delightful day spent walking along the shore and soaking in the sun, they settled down at The Orange Tree pub, where Joe's nerves began to surface. As they returned to their room to unpack, Charlotte turned around to find Joe on one knee, ring box in hand.
“We facetimed everyone to let them know, we were late to our dinner reservation, but my parents had very thoughtfully bought a bottle of champagne (which Joe doesn’t drink!) and a rum and coke for Joe, which was waiting for us on our table. In the end I couldn’t finish the champagne to myself, so the tables around us also joined in the celebrations as we passed a few glasses around!”
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
The Dress
Charlotte discovered Bridal Indulgence while browsing the Watters website and scouring Instagram for inspiration. With an open mind, she approached her wedding dress shopping experience, eager to explore different styles rather than sticking to a specific idea.
Charlotte’s her mother, sister (who was her maid of honor), and Joe's mother, came along with Charlotte to her appointment at Bridal Indulgence.
“The whole experience at Bridal Indulgence just made everything about it amazing, I didn’t go to any other shops! I felt so comfortable. I am not one for being the center of attention and was worried that I wasn’t going to find anything I liked, but Kerri just made me feel so relaxed, and I was able to be super decisive, which is not like me at all! Trying on the dresses is something you always dream about it, and to experience that was just amazing, and hard to put into words!”
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
After trying on around 10 to 12 dresses, Charlotte narrowed her choices down to three diverse options. However, when she slipped into Watters Ti Amo for the second time, she felt an overwhelming wave of emotion. It was a moment of clarity; she knew she had found "the one"
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
“Once I put my dress on, I felt a different sense of emotion come over me, and I didn’t want to take it off! Every angle just looked amazing and I just felt so comfortable in it. ”
For her accessories, Charlotte stayed true to her personal style with chunky rings and necklaces. She wore two amber stone rings that belonged to her grandmother, a sentimental touch that kept her loved one close on her special day. Her standout accessory was a chunky necklace, a cherished birthday gift from Joe. Adding a pop of colour, she chose bright red Louboutin heels that complemented her dress beautifully.
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
The Wedding
Charlotte and Joe explored several venues, but The Willow Marsh Farm in East Leake, Leicestershire, stole their hearts. The venue's enchanting atmosphere, attention to detail, and picturesque setting made it the ideal choice, especially since it was just a short drive from home.
On their wedding day, Charlotte was initially nervous, but all apprehension melted away as she laid eyes on Joe walking down the aisle. The couple exchanged vows in a celebrant-led ceremony that received so many compliments from their guests. Afterward, they enjoyed bubbles and an array of delicious canapés before the heartfelt speeches that brought laughter and tears.
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
With the rain clearing just in time for their confetti shots, the couple reveled in a joyful reception filled with mingling, food, and fun. They cherished a private moment together in the fields, capturing beautiful memories with their photographers and videographer. Their first dance to "Hooked on a Feeling" marked the beginning of a night filled with dancing and celebration, thanks to the lively band, The Rock n Soulers.
Reflecting on their wedding day, Charlotte and Joe shared that every moment was memorable.
“We honestly don’t have one, that might sound super cliché but the whole day for us was memorable. We don’t have one regret of our wedding day and we are super lucky to say that, but from start to finish, it was exactly what we envisioned!”
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
Looking back, Charlotte offers a valuable piece of advice for brides-to-be:
“Please go in with an open mind – try on a variety of dresses so you can find what suits you shape wise, material wise and even colours! Once you try your dress on, you’ll know. It still helps to have an idea, but don’t go in with your blinkers on, because there will be one hiding in the depths waiting for you, which might be the total opposite of what you thought!”
Photo by Mark Horton Photographs
Wedding Team
Photographer: Mark Horton Photographs
Venue: The Willow Marsh Farm
Celebrant: Lauren Oldfield
Stylist & Stationery: Junie Poonie
Videographer: Electric Reel Films
Dress: Watters/Bridal Indulgence
Shoes: Louboutin
Hair: Liam Robinson / Santi Studio
Make-up Artist: Suzie Gee
Joe’s Suit: Universal Works
Confetti: Just Hitched Confetti
Cake: Rock n Roll Baker
Band: Rock n Soulers
Caterers: A.B.J Catering
Bridesmaids Dresses: Rixo
Bridesmaids Hair: Tasha Leigh