Adam’s Story

The Proposal

The proposal was a surprise weekend away. I booked the time from work for both Julie and I – and tried in vein to keep the secret (and did!). On the motorway I announced that we were on the way to the airport, and Julie screamed! We flew to Edinburgh and then drove to St Andrews where we stayed at the impressive St Andrews Golf and Spa Resort. The proposal took place on our third anniversary of being together in a restaurant called Esperante. There were tears but she said yes!

The Outfits

The Bride – The dress was Jorie Ann by Maggie Sottero and was supplied by The Wardrobe in Kinver. Lace predominant and a long veil.

The Bridesmaids – Long chocolate brown dresses.

The Groom and Groomsmen – Traditional long black tailcoats with black trousers, patent shoes and simple ivory shirts, ivory waistcoats and ivory ties. Classic.

The Wedding and Reception Venue

Friends had looked at The Curradine Barns but as they were having a winter wedding thought the venue would better suit good weather. We had been looking around without success and then The Curradine Barns was mentioned to us. As soon as we visited we knew it was right.

The Ceremony – We decided on a church wedding and it was a natural choice to choose St Johns Church (behind Hagley Hall). Julie’s parents were married there, and her grandparents buried there.

The Reception – We loved the relaxed atmosphere and the style of The Curradine Barns, which the owners late wife took so much pride in creating.

The Decorative Touches

Room decorations – Laura Ashley style candelabras in cream with chocolate petals and butterflies. Rolled not folded napkins, professionally printed menus, table stands with name cards etc..

Table centrepieces – Huge ornamental wine glasses filled with orchids.

The Cake

Three tier traditional Marks and Spencer’s cake!! Additional decorations by ourselves with chocolate ribbon and orchids.

The Transport

The wedding car was an Armstrong. Black over white. A Jaguar Daimler followed as a second car.

Advice to other couples

Don’t take too much advice!! Everyone will give you advice if you ask for it. This typically confuses you and can make some decisions more difficult. Try and stick to your guns and usually this is your first idea. It’s your wedding – don’t forget.

The Suppliers

Wedding Reception Venue – The Curradine Barns

Venue found through Country House Wedding Venues

Bride’s dress – The Wardrobe, Kinver, Stourbridge

Bride’s accessories – as above

Groom’s suit – Nicholas Smith, Worcester

Bridesmaid’s dresses – Go Bridal, Birmingham

Wedding rings – Jewellery Quarter – Birmingham

Wedding cake – Marks and Spencers

Flowers – The Flower Shop, Wolverhampton

Cars – Retro Rental, Wolverly, Nr Kidderminster

Invitations – Designed by us and printed by Stevlyn Press, Halesowen

Wedding list – Debenhams

Photographer – Eden Photography