Maxine & James lock eyes and marry at Weston Hall wedding

“Their eyes met across a crowded room…” No, this isn’t a romance novel, it’s the story of Maxine Chamberlain and James Hughes.

The pair, aged 34 and 29 respectively, married with a Weston Hall wedding on February 7, 2015 in Stafford. But it all started with a chance meeting in aforementioned “crowded room”. Maxine says the two exchanged numbers but she didn’t expect much as James was headed away for a work trip. “James jetted off for five months to work a season in Corfu! I didn’t expect to hear from him again but he text me every single day,” she smiles.

Five years into the relationship Maxine says she had given up all hope of a proposal, but clearly James was just waiting for the perfect setting. “When he proposed at a Bruno Mars concert I was in complete shock, just like the rest of the crowd who were hugging us and taking our photo,” recalls Maxine.

Their wedding was informal and intimate with prompters for guests to get to know one another. “We had games on the tables to encourage people who didn’t know each other to talk and get involved,” says Maxine. And their supplier hunting was a little outside the square when it came to the music. “We also had an acoustic guitarist who we found busking in the street,” she laughs.

Photos courtesy of Bridgwood Wedding Photography.

“I chose my three sisters as bridesmaids,” says the bride.

Joan Brown Vintage Bridal provided Maxine’s hair accessory.

Maxine’s strapless sweetheart neckline gown was a Bridal Couture by Josephine design.

The couple honeymooned in Mexico.