They say happily ever afters only exist in fairytales, but Lee Scullion captured just that and more at Joseph and Nathalie’s wedding on the 04/06/16 at Wynyard Hall. After meeting at a pantomime production where Nathalie played Sleeping Beauty and Joseph was working backstage, it was clear that this enchanted acquaintance was just the beginning, as 10 years later they celebrated their own fairytale in the beautiful setting of Wynyard Hall.

“We aimed to create a theme of traditional elegance, which we felt was really defined by our choice of venue, flowers and the dress. Wynyard Hall offered elegance in every detail from the candle lit chapel, to the candelabras and chandeliers in the ballroom at the wedding breakfast, and the stunning views across the lake and surrounding grounds.

“Wynyard Hall was exquisitely conserved from the countless chandeliers to the stunning stained glass atrium and beautifully upholstered golden furniture, we felt it was a perfect setting. In a practical sense we wanted to get married in a church and Wynard Hall was one of the only venues we visited that had a chapel attached to it and many bedrooms for our guests which worked out perfectly.”

How did you choose your photographer?
"We both loved Lee's shots and how he really captures the best in people. His shots are very elegant and that was a theme we hoped to run on throughout, so he seemed the perfect choice. We knew he would make a great wedding guest too which is important as your photographer is such a big part of your day both during and after!"

Any funny stories from the wedding?
"Slightly funny - the vicar forgot my name and stuttered around for a while but everyone laughed and it made for a great shot!"

Advice for other brides and grooms?
"Don’t make your own wedding stationary or invites unless you have lots of time! I was sceptical about the prices of wedding stationary, it seems a lot of money as all of the little extras start to add up when you get to the detail but…  it really does take a long time and lots of organization to make your own! I had to draft in many friends to help make everything on time (thanks Vicky!)."

What was your highlight of the day?
"Our favourite memory of the day was the first time we saw each other as our eyes met at the alter. We knew all of the planning and memories of the last 10 years had been building up to this moment and everyone we loved and cared for was there supporting us. It was very emotional and we both cried!

"This was closely followed by the the Best Man’s speech. The Best Man was a mixologist and as part of his speech he designed a cocktail that reflected our individual personalities and us as a couple. He prepared it at the top table and explained as he made it why he had chosen each of the ingredients and what they represented. In the end all of the ingredients, although different, complemented each other to make the perfect cocktail! He served it and made a toast to the bride and groom!"

For more Wynyard Hall wedding inspiration, make sure you attend the Love&Luxe wedding fair at Wynyard Hall on Sunday 21st January, from 12pm - 3pm. Hosted by the award-winning Wedding Wonder Show and Belle Bridal Magazine, couples can expect more than 100 of the region's finest wedding creatives, as well as a catwalk show, dedicated bridesmaid area, styling zone and so much more. Visit www.weddingwondershow.co.uk for more information and to reserve your VIP bride goodie bag.

Words by Alex Willingham