Lucy and Dan’s wedding was nothing short of magical, combining a love story that began in their teens with a breathtaking barn celebration. From reconnecting years after first meeting, to a romantic Parisian proposal, and finally to their perfect wedding day at The Barn at Avington, Lucy and Dan’s journey to "I do" is filled with heartfelt memories, laughter, and joy. Here’s a glimpse into their day, featuring Lucy’s stunning Harlow gown by Watters and the beautiful personal touches that made their celebration unforgettable.

The Proposal

For Lucy’s birthday in January 2022, Dan planned a surprise trip to Paris, setting up an engagement she never expected. Though family and friends teased her about a possible proposal, Lucy brushed it off, having organized most of the itinerary herself. When they arrived in Paris on February 13, 2023, they decided to explore, crossing the River Seine to see the Eiffel Tower. Dan seemed unusually quiet, which Lucy chalked up to hunger as they searched for a restaurant. After lunch, they walked back to a spot overlooking the Seine, where Dan suggested they take a photo. As Lucy prepared her phone, she turned to see Dan holding her dream engagement ring, ready to pop the question. Against the iconic Parisian backdrop, Lucy happily said “yes,” setting the stage for their dream wedding.

The Dress

When it came time to find her wedding dress, Lucy knew she wanted something unique yet elegant. She found Bridal Indulgence after searching for a bridal boutique that carried Watters gowns. Joined by her mum and best friend, Lucy had an idea of what she did and didn’t want, but was open to trying various styles. When she slipped into the Harlow dress, with its lace sleeves, delicate back detail, and subtle leg split, she felt transformed. “The way I felt in my dress and how I looked in it – I just knew it was the one,” she recalls.

“The whole experience was so fun and special. The support and knowledge from Dee in my appointment was amazing. Trying on dresses was so much fun!”

— Lucy

”I was and still am obsessed with my dress but the lace sleeves, the details on the back of the dress and the subtle leg split were my absolute favourite details.”

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She completed her look with a cathedral-length veil, gold pearl earrings, and a simple necklace, creating an effortlessly classic bridal look.

The Wedding

Lucy and Dan’s vision came to life at The Barn at Avington, which offered a beautiful barn setting with the flexibility to host the ceremony, reception, and an entire weekend celebration. With access to the venue for a full week, Lucy and her bridesmaids transformed the space, setting up flowers, décor, and a cozy atmosphere for their loved ones. The weekend began with a pre-wedding BBQ, where guests stayed overnight in the onsite cottage and glamping bell tents.

The wedding day was filled with heartfelt moments, beginning with Lucy getting ready with her bridesmaids, her mum, and Dan’s mum. The ceremony took place by the river, with a violinist playing as guests arrived. Just before Lucy walked down the aisle with her father, their young son’s recorded message to Dan played, bringing everyone to tears. After a beautiful riverside ceremony, the couple hosted a cocktail hour with a free bar, garden games, a selfie mirror, and even a personalized crossword puzzle about their love story.

For the wedding breakfast, they served a relaxed BBQ-style buffet, followed by a vintage heart-shaped cake and their first dance. Later in the evening, a wood-fired pizza truck arrived to keep the party going. As Lucy and Dan looked out at their guests, they felt a wave of gratitude and joy, knowing they were surrounded by all their favorite people.

Looking back, Lucy’s advice for future brides is simple: “Go in with an open mind. Try on different styles – even those you wouldn’t typically choose – as you may be surprised!”

The Wedding Team

Photographer @lexflemingphoto

Venue @thebarnatavington

Content creator @bridalbestieclub

Flowers @stemandgreen

Makeup @shannonfostermakeup

Hair @the.stylistandco

Nails @ems.nails.designs

Violinist @violin.naomi

Bar @clink_and_drink

Cake @somethingsweet.bysophie

Coordinators @staceypageweddings

Lights, sounds and DJ @farnhamsandl

Wedding breakfast @barknrender

Pizza truck @thepizzapost_

Rustic Romance: A Riverside Barn Wedding Where the Bride Wore Watters' Harlow Gown

The Proposal

The Dress

The Wedding

The Wedding Team

A Dream Wedding in Southend Barns: Watters Wedding Dress brings Timeless Elegance