Leigh and Johan choose Notley Abbey as it offered them everything they needed to host their big day, under one roof. As a wedding venue steeped in history, they thought it would be amazing to host their wedding in a place that’s hosted some of the best parties throughout the ages. They later realised that Notley was once home to Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh, who Leigh is named after, so it made the venue even more special!
When it came to the décor, the couple wanted to keep the natural aesthetic the venue offered, so they decided to keep their décor minimal and unfussy. Leigh’s bright cascading bridal bouquet added a pop of colour to the Abbot’s Hall, where they said their “I do’s, whilst a pink and cream floral arch way framed the main entrance. Pillar candles and green foliage dressed the centre of the breakfast tables, and white spent cartridges were made into place name holders by Leigh herself, a keen clay and game shooter.
Visiting a bridal boutique with a few relatives, Leigh tried on several styles of wedding dresses picked out by the party to help her figure out what style she liked and suited. Once she knew the style she wanted, Leigh took a gamble and brought her dress on eBay after setting up a search alert. Thankfully the risk paid off and Leigh got her dream dress for a steal.
Johan and the groomsmen opted to rent their suits from Moss Bros, who offered a great selection and service. Another highlight was that the groomsmen were able to try on the suits and be fitted in their local stores, before collection, saving the hassle of arranging a group outing to one single store.
The ever-changing government guidelines were challenging for the couple during the planning stages, and unfortunately, Leigh and Johan had their wedding date cancelled twice, before booking their wedding at Notley Abbey. That aside, the planning wasn’t all doom and gloom, with the food tasting being “hands down the most enjoyable aspect”.
On their wedding day Leigh and Johan were surrounded by close friends and relatives as they tied the knot. It was a special moment seeing their loved ones enjoy themselves and get to know one another during the wedding breakfast, especially those who had never met. Seeing everyone dancing the night away together was just as memorable, particularly as it hadn’t been long since the rules around dancing at weddings had been relaxed.
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Photographer: Milk Bottle Photography | Florist: Jade Wright | Evening Music: Gary Fox
