After meeting over eight years ago while studying together at Uni in Manchester, Harriet knew her man like the back of her hand. And, she had an inkling a ring was on its way to her left one after Jonathon suggested a 4am sunrise walk at Lulworth Cove in Dorset! The question was popped and the answer was a resounding yes, but throw in a couple with two busy jobs, a global pandemic and list of restrictions longer than people have been saying ‘I do’, Harriet and John's plans were anything but plain sailing.

A 12 month postponement, Harriet and Jon’s wedding was put on hold, but that extra year for thinking and saving proved worthwhile as this pair pulled off the most romantic, magical day – with a setting to match.

THE BEAUTY OF BRINKBURN

With jobs that had moved this couple to all corners of the country, they contemplated for a long time over where exactly to make it official. After settling on the North East (we can’t blame them) Harriet and Jonathon did plenty of late night googling before coming across the beautiful Brinkburn in Northumberland.

THE SECOND WE WALKED DOWN THE DRIVE, THE FEELING OF “THIS IS IT” HIT US.

HARRIET, BRIDE

Effortlessly styled with soft neutral tones and taupes, greenery and foliage by Bels Flowers, complimented by the rustic romance of Brinkburn's untouched beauty, this was a blush pink paradise made for a modern marriage. Cue Andy Usher's dulcet sax tones in the gardens and a sparkling champagne tower.

Q.WHAT ABOUT YOUR VENUE GIVES IT THE WOW FACTOR?

Where do I begin?! It has everything and more.  The beautiful Priory, the gorgeous Manor House, the tipi, the grounds, the accommodation… I could go on!

If you'd like to find out more about Brinkburn, they offer viewings every Friday. Head to their Guest List profile to discover more of this rural retreat's delights.

Q. HOW DID YOU PICK THE PERFECT PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER TO CAPTURE YOUR DAY?

After lots and lots of Instagram scrolling, I chose Helen Russell, who is a recommended supplier of Brinkburn. She is incredibly talented. She put us so at ease and she captured absolutely everything I had hoped for!

Q. HOW DID YOU FEEL AS YOU WALKED DOWN THE AISLE?

 AFTER THE POSTPONEMENT AND NOT SEEING FAMILY AND FRIENDS FOR ALMOST TWO YEARS, IT WAS A REALLY SPECIAL AND EMOTIONAL MOMENT.

HARRIET, THE BRIDE

Q. OUT OF 10, HOW INVOLVED WAS YOUR PARTNER IN THE PLANNING PROCESS? (ANSWER HONESTLY!)

Honestly – probably a four – but that is only because I'm a bit of a control freak. He was a huge support to me and so he gets 10/10 for that!

Q. FIRST DANCE SONG?

At Last by Etta James

Q. PRESUMING YOU'LL HAVE A HONEYMOON ONCE TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS ARE LIFTED WHERE WILL YOU GO?

Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Q. BIGGEST WORD OF ADVICE TO NEWLY ENGAGED COUPLES?

Take a couple of days off a month or so before. I was working and felt a bit rushed making all the final decisions – take a couple of days off to get everything finalised!

For more incredible real wedding inspiration, head to our dedicated page here - all the luxe venues, all the bridal beauty, all the love.