Love can happen when we least expect it to, and for Gemma and Andrew their love story started on a dance floor when on a night out in Sunderland. “I was on the dance floor and a song came on that I decided I needed a boy to dance with, so I turned around and Andy was the first boy I saw! We ended up exchanging numbers and later that week he text asking if I wanted to go on a date.”

Fast-forward to 2018 and the couple held a beautiful celebration in the gorgeous setting of Hallgarth Manor. “We wanted somewhere intimate where ours would be the only wedding; I didn’t like the idea of bumping into another bride! With it being a spring wedding my theme was English Country Garden, so I wanted nice grounds where we could spend time outside (weather dependent!) I looked at loads of places online and made a shortlist of my favourites to go and visit. I got a good feeling about Hallgarth Manor straight away; it was in a good location and had beautiful private grounds. The hotel had just recently been refurbished to a really high standard and Kelly the wedding coordinator was so friendly and helpful.

“After that I kept comparing everywhere to Hallgarth Manor, so I knew that was the right venue and luckily they still had dates available in May. Most of the planning was done via email, which was perfect for me working full time and they have regular wedding showcases, so I was able to call in and see the rooms dressed and chat to Kelly. The day ran really smoothly and the staff couldn’t do enough for us. We were so lucky with the weather it was a beautiful warm and sunny day, so we were able to enjoy the garden and get some fantastic photos. It was absolutely perfect I’m so happy I chose Hallgarth Manor and would definitely recommend it to any future brides.”

Gemma and Andrew chose Michael Southwick Photography to capture their special day. “I spent a lot of weekends at wedding fairs with my mam and sister - we only had eight months to plan the wedding so it was pretty hectic trying to get everything booked. I met Michael and Sarah at a Belle Bridal event and they were both lovely and his ultimate package price was really reasonable. I also liked how he included a slideshow DVD with footage from the day so it was like having a photographer and videographer in one.”

Advice for other brides and grooms?

“Everyone says the day flies by, but it really does! It sounds like such a cliché but just enjoy it as much as you can because it’s over in a flash! Don’t waste time worrying about little details because they really don’t matter on the day. Try not to be swayed by other people just do want you want remember it’s your day!”

What was your highlight of the day?

“I had such an amazing time I loved every minute of it! I was so happy with my dress, hair and make-up it was exactly what I wanted, so seeing Andy’s face light up when I walked down the aisle was really special and made all the planning and stress worth it! It was such a special day and I’m so glad I got to share it with all my family and friends.”

For more wedding inspiration, check out our dedicated real wedding section. For more information about Michael Southwick Photography, or Hallgarth Manor, grab your copy of the latest issue of Belle Bridal Magazine available online now.