Rebecca and Jack
The wonderful Rebecca and Jack regale us with their stories from the big day.
Photography by: Holly Rose Weddings
How did you two meet?
It’s a beautiful story. Our fathers were childhood friends 45 years ago as they grew up in the same little village in Kent. Therefore, both of our grandmothers knew each other and to this day are still best friends, sharing a room at Pennyhill together for our big day.
Jack and I never really saw much of each other as we were slightly different age groups but we became closer following my 21st birthday party where I invited his family (secretly praying he would attend, not just his parents) and when he walked through the door I was thrilled, had many Jager bombs and ended the night with a cheeky kiss.
Jack proposed in Iceland at the top of Guilfoss waterfall, it was freezing cold and totally unexpected and we had a large crowd around us cheering.
We were so caught up in the engagement we forgot to attend the Northern Lights tour that evening as we were too busy drinking champagne in the hotel bar and missed our transfer - shame that was the only reason we went to Iceland, to see the lights!
What did you love most about Pennyhill Park?
Its wow factor! It is a truly incredible place, in a stunning setting with beautiful backdrops for photos. Jack's family have been visiting PH regularly for over 15 years, but we never thought we would actually get married in such a perfect place when I jokingly mentioned that was my plan to his family in the spa outdoor hot tub after we had only been dating less than a year. Seven years later and the dream came true!
Did you have a theme or style in mind for your big day?
A relaxed but unforgettable day was our aim. We decorated everything we could see with flowers and fairy lights but the most memorable part was the uplifting and incredibly talented gospel choir who sang while guests arrived and during the ceremony. It was emotional but also so much fun as they danced around everyone.
Tell us about the dress.
A stunning modern twist on a classic lace dress, A-line shape decorated from shoulder to floor in delicate rose patterned lace. I modified the top and the straps to make the dress totally unique to me.
What do you remember most about the day?
We've both said the most memorable part of the day was seeing each other at the aisle as it is such an overpowering moment of pure happiness.
Second to that, after a few glasses of bubbles, the live band on the starlit dancefloor and having every single guest up and dancing to Bon Jovi's Livin' on a Prayer was such a highlight for us.
Were there any special moments or surprises?
The big surprise was the gospel choir, it was only Jack and I who knew they were singing for us and everyone said how incredible they were.
There was one lovely surprise that Jack organised post-wedding... a premiere and first watch of our wedding video in a private screening at the Odeon cinema once we returned from honeymoon with all our close family!
What tips or advice would you give to future couples?
Start planning early, but most importantly enjoy the planning and the build-up, it doesn’t have to be a chore, it is fun meeting suppliers and seeing your ideas come to life. Try and make a day or weekend of certain events like venue visiting or food tasting.