Gemma & Chris - 03.04.2022
So lovely to see postponed weddings go ahead. Gemma and Chris celebrated their day at the beautiful Clearwell Castle, Gloucestershire and what a stunning day it was. Gemma chose our Kathryn earrings to complement her bridal look. Find out a bit more about Gemma and Chris's day...
Tell us about you...
Name: Gemma Woodhouse
Wedding Date: 3rd April 2022
Location of Wedding: St Peter's Church & Clearwell Castle
Tell us your proposal story…
Chris proposed to me pre covid however we were in the process of buying our first house when Covid hit, at this time we were living separately and as I had my grandmother who has dementia living with me, I was unable to see Chris inside or give him a hug for nearly 4 months! When we were able to move in together for the second lockdown we had no complaints about spending all our time together and were enjoying planning our wedding… until we had to postpone! I wouldn’t recommend planning a wedding during a global pandemic but if you and your partner can not only get through that but thrive afterwards then you know you're on to a good thing.
What advice would you give to any future bride currently planning their wedding?
Don't worry about the smaller things. Take at least 5 minutes on your special day to just take a step back and observe what is going on around you. Take it all in and know you did it! Also, make sure you get some alone time with your new husband as you don’t spend as much time together as you think you would as you’re so busy being pulled for pictures or mingling with your guests.
What is the one thing in your opinion every bride needs on her wedding day?
A good support network. I would have been lost without my parents and bridal party, aside from Chris they were my rocks. Also.. have a pair of flats for after your first dance so you can dance without pain… your guests won't even know!
What was the biggest pain point when planning your wedding and how did you overcome this?
Postponing for sure! Also keeping track of the deposits, payments due and trying to stick within a budget. I used a spreadsheet to track all of mine which helped. (Download our SV budget spreadsheet to help you keep on track of your wedding expenses)
How did you choose your suppliers?
I did a lot of research! I had a specific vision, all of my research had to be done online due to lockdown but using social media and reviews helped. Also, talk to them in person. We had zoom meetings with most of our suppliers and you can tell if you click with them and if they are right for you.
Tell us about your experience with Sarah Vuong...
I had the most gorgeous Kathryn earrings for my wedding day, they felt so lightweight- I hate heavy earrings and they looked beautiful In person. I also got my mum a beautiful pearl bracelet to wear to the wedding. Sarah is also the loveliest person and was always there when I was torn between a couple of different items.
Suppliers...
Venue: Clearwell Castle
Photographer: Daniel James Photography
MUA & Hair Stylist: Minxies
Décor Stylist: Etiquette Events
Dress: Wed2b
Shoes: Rainbow Club
Suits: Slaters
Hair Accessories: Wed2b
Jewellery: Tiffany & Co and Kathryn Earrings from Sarah Vuong