Careful planning set the scene for Sam Peat’s New Year’s Day proposal to Jemma Swainston – unfortunately the weather had other ideas.
“The backdrop of Edinburgh Castle seemed the perfect, romantic place; however, the torrential rain, hangovers and huge hill climb in gail-force conditions had different ideas,” Jemma, 25 says.
Twenty months later, the Derby couple, who describe themselves as best friends, celebrated their rustic wedding at Shustoke Barn, Birmingham on August 28, 2016.
“The ceremony was lovely… Saying our vows, looking into each other’s eyes with cheesy grins is a feeling we will remember forever,” Jemma says.
“We played a short game before the speeches. Testing the guests on the knowledge of the happy couple, whether it was Jemma or Sam, with questions like ‘Who is the spider catcher?’ and ‘Who said I love you first?’ (Jemma catches the spiders and Sam was the first to say I love you). Then the speeches, which were an absolute highlight.”
Jemma and Sam, 28, worked hard ahead of the big day to ensure all of their 120 evening guests were catered for and the end result was a meaningful day full of fun.
“From beer pong to sparklers and even an attempt at hijacking the band’s microphone for karaoke the party atmosphere kept everyone dancing until 1am,” Jemma says.
Photos courtesy of Jessica Raphael Photography.
Sam’s classic wedding band was sourced from Goldsmiths.
Jemma says it was love at first sight when she spotted her wedding dress.
Groom Sam looked dapper in a three-piece suit by Peter Posh.
In Bloom created relaxed and rustic-looking arrangements for the big day.
The couple had a gorgeous ombre-style wedding cake with a splash of gold.
Jemma recommends other brides start seeing to the smaller details sooner. “The last week was stressful and included lots of cutting and sticking and last-minute trips to Hobbycraft,” she says.