“I realised how lucky I was, to be able to marry the man of my dreams and my best friend.”

Set in the heart of Alnwick, Northumberland, one of the world’s most extraordinary and historic gardens, Alnwick Gardens, lies alongside the stunning grounds of Alnwick Castle.

The couple tied the knot back in early September after meeting on a night out in Aberdeen. Jenny’s flat mate and Peter, who were both from Newcastle, had many mutual friends in common, giving Jenny an excuse to travel down to visit him a few weeks later. As the saying goes, “the rest was history.”

THE VENUE:

With views of the Grand Cascade, this stunning complex of enchanting gardens turned Jenny and Peter’s dreams into a reality.

Jenny reflected, “We wanted a relaxed wedding day that made the most of the beautiful, natural setting of Alnwick Garden.”

With lots of family and friends visiting from Scotland and the south of England, we needed a venue that was easily accessible.

Alnwick Garden was probably the fifth wedding venue we visited and we instantly loved the bright and airy pavilion room.

The gardens were the perfect backdrop with lots of hidden corners to explore and capture on camera. We also loved that come the late afternoon, we had the gardens to ourselves.”

Alnwick Garden held lots of secret treasures for Jenny and Peter’s special day. Small inviting pathways were decorated with stunning fruit trees and above all the amazing water features and tranquil surroundings created the relaxed ambiance the couple loved.

The sun beamed through the large glass windows of the Pavilion room while Jenny and Peter said their vows.

Scattered confetti in shades of pink and flowers in glass gin bottles bordered the aisle while the blossom trees and the rustic chairs added an extra touch of character.

THE DRESS:

“I searched the bridal shops in Newcastle but couldn’t find a dress that felt right. A couple of months later, I was visiting a friend in Edinburgh who suggested we try some shops there.

Emma Roy was the second shop we tried and I knew I had found my dream dress because my friend started crying when she saw me. I got in touch with my other bridesmaids and my mum – who gave me their seal of approval – and placed an order that very afternoon,” Jenny said.

The bride stepped out in a stunning figure hugging, bardot style, v-neck dress. The delicate and intricate beading scattered the top of the dress and gradually faded towards the bottom. This sleek and stunning design certainly created a sense of beauty, elegance and sophistication.

The bridesmaid’s wore dresses in a pastel pink shade and the flower bouquets in colours of blush pink and burgundy complemented the bride perfectly.

THE BRIDE’S ADVICE:

“Relax, try to enjoy the experience and above all make the most of every second. Remember, your wedding day is about you and your partner, so make sure to take some time alone together… it’s harder than it sounds!”

Jenny said, “I had two real special moments of the day. I was incredibly nervous to walk down the aisle and seeing Peter waiting for me at the end, settled my nerves and made me realise how lucky I was.

The second highlight was looking out during the speeches and seeing all our loved ones together in one room.

Having them all there to celebrate with us, was priceless.”

For more inspiration take a look at our dedicated real weddings section, or take a look at the glossy pages of our regional magazine.