On the 30th of June 2025, on an unusually hot British summer’s day, I tied the knot with my best friend, Micky at Houchins.
Houchins was the first wedding venue we viewed and although we went on to view many more (just to be sure) I think we knew at that first viewing that the beautiful gardens, rustic barn and outdoor setting for the ceremony in the marquee was ideal for what we envisaged for our special day. Our second viewing solidified our thoughts as our parents’ reactions confirmed we had chosen the perfect venue for us.
Our wedding celebrations started the night before as we’d decided to rent the idyllic farmhouse and honeymoon lodge for two nights. I would wholeheartedly recommend this to anyone considering it. It meant that we could set up in the venue the day before and then enjoy a relaxed evening with our closest friends and family. It also gave us more flexibility when arranging arrival times for my hair and makeup artists.
The morning of the wedding was calm, blissful and unhurried — not words everyone would associate with their wedding day! Micky and I woke early before the preparations began and shared a quiet, special moment by the stunning pond. We exchanged cards, enjoyed coffee and croissants, and soaked up the already blazing summer sunshine. While some might say it breaks tradition to see your partner on the morning of your wedding, that slow, peaceful start together is a memory I will cherish forever.
Then came the walk down the aisle — one of the most anticipated moments of any wedding day. I had my sister and two best friends as bridesmaids; two flower girls and my gorgeous little nephew lead the way. The aisle lined with beautiful flower arches into the marquee is perfectly designed, allowing my Dad and I to take in the reactions of my friends and family as we approached arm in arm. It was made all the more special by the accompaniment of my best friend singing. A memory that will always give me goose bumps!
From there, the day flowed into the drinks reception in the gardens, wedding breakfast and evening celebrations; with pockets of time in between to explore the vast surrounding fields for amazing photo opportunities. Everything felt seamless, thanks to the incredible Houchins team. Their experience and professionalism meant the day ran so smoothly that you hardly noticed all the behind-the-scenes work happening to make it feel so effortless.
Some big highlights of the day included the surprise performance from our singing waiters who shocked and wowed after dessert was served; leading a conga line from the DJ booth out onto the terrace, and watching our guests enjoy the glorious weather late into the evening with an Aperol spritz and slice of stone baked pizza in hand. We truly felt like we could have been abroad!
The biggest takeaway from the day was that it felt completely ours. It wasn’t a copy-and-paste wedding or a one-size-fits-all experience. At Houchins, we were given the freedom and creativity to design a day that truly reflected us — one we will cherish for the rest of our lives.
