Most brides dream of perfection on their wedding day. But, it is often the little unforeseen hiccups that help create the memories of an unforgettable event.

For Alexandra, not even a disastrous wedding cake that needed emergency “prettying up” on the day or the fact a tube of colourful confetti found its way into her mouth during the classic confetti-throwing shot, resulting in her spitting it all out on the ground, could dampen the occasion.

She wore a stunning, vintage-inspired Justin Alexander A-line wedding dress. It had a Sabrina neckline and attached pearl and crystal waistband.

Alexandra married Mark surrounded by friends and family in the breathtaking 18th Century Healey Barn in Northumberland.

The couple wanted their wedding day to be “rustic and relaxed.” Alexandra ensured there were personal touches throughout. She designed and handmade all the table centerpieces herself, as well as the wedding favours with sparklers and marshmallows.  She bought lanterns with candles to adorn the aisle and crates to hold an abundance of pretty flowers in the windows of the stone barn.

The day was captured by experienced wedding photographer Lee Scullion. His work had inspired Alexandra and Mark when they saw it online. “We first noticed some of Lee’s photographs on a friend’s Facebook page and absolutely loved them,” said Alexandra.

The Venue:

It was Mark, who met Alexandra on a night out in Sunderland, who found Healey Barn when searching for potential venues on the internet. The pair booked a visit and instantly fell in love.

Alexandra said: “We loved the freedom of the place. They didn’t supply anything in a ‘package.’ Instead, we had free reign over my décor. I would definitely recommend it to other brides.”

Healey Barn prides itself on its food. So, the couple opted for an afternoon tea as a wedding breakfast.

“Everyone tells me the meal was absolutely amazing – but I never got around to actually eating any, so I wouldn’t know,” laughed Alexandra.

 

Planning:

Alexandra enjoyed planning her special day and attended a number of wedding fairs, including at the Metro Radio Arena and Lumley Castle, to garner ideas and meet suppliers and specialists working in the industry. She booked harpist Helena Pearson for the ceremony having heard her playing at a wedding fair at Seaham Hall.

Bride’s Highlight:

Alexandra was blown away by a speech by her Maid of Honour. “She’d secretly been having guitar lessons for months and wrote a song herself to sing with her guitar on the day. It was amazing!”

Alexandra’s advice:

“Don’t stress about things that you can’t control! I was so worried about the weather and didn’t even notice it on the day.”

For inspiration for your wedding day take a look at our dedicated real weddings section, or get your hands on our glossy, regional magazine here.

words by Faye Dixon