Victoria & Joe chose an intimate, cosy Christmas wedding at Merewood and when I arrived it really felt like a second round of Christmas morning; the chilly morning air, the hustle and bustle of final preparations going on around the hotel and of course all the twinkly lights and the roaring fire in the entrance to the hotel. I love intimate weddings and those sleepy days between Christmas and New Year seem to lend themselves to weddings surrounded by immediate family and friends.

How did you meet?

We met on Match.com while we were both living and working in London. Joe is the best thing I’ve found on the Internet.

Tell me your proposal story

Joe proposed on his birthday. He says he was hedging his bets.

Why did you choose the venue(s) you chose for your wedding day?

We chose The Merewood. It is a beautiful country house hotel in the heart of The Lake District., and it reminded Joe and I of Hogwarts. We loved the smell of the open log fire, antique mahogany wood, the big imposing staircase. We loved it and knew it was the venue for us instantly. The gardens are immaculate and there are Highland cow on site!

The venue is big enough to feel spacious, not so big you feel lost, with a cozy bar, drawing room, private library with a open fire and the Arboreal which was our dining room.

What was it you loved about your outfits and accessories that made you choose them?

I loved to see Joe and the boys matching outfits and matching bow ties – the bow ties had dinosaurs on them which made me laugh. I knew Joe would manage get dinosaurs incorporated into the wedding somewhere.

My dress was from Asos – I absolutely loved it. I wore a necklace my mother-in-law gave me, she had it made from a diamond ring that once belonged to Joe’s grandad, it was very sentimental gift.

Tell me about the vision you had for your wedding including your theme/colour scheme/styling/flowers:

After visiting and staying at the venue, I had a good idea of the type of decorations that would be complimentary.

We married at Christmas time, so log fires blazing, scented candles (white company- winter, absolute winner; whenever I smell that scent I’m instantly transported) and of course a Christmas tree!

I ordered the flowers to be delivered  from the florist the day before and the bridesmaids made their own bouquets. It was a fun pre-wedding activity.

What were the most wonderful parts of the day for you?

The best part of our day was our outdoor photoshoot.

After the mad rush of getting ready, the nerves and excitement of the ceremony. Then thereafter the well wishes, family photos and some food.

Being whisked off by Hannah for the outdoor photoshoot was a private moment for Joe and I to be together, reflect and moment in time really just for ourselves.

Why did you choose Hannah Hall Photography as your photographer, and what was your experience of your photography on the day?

I found Hannah on Instagram and loved her work immediately. She was also suggested to me by several over photographers from The Lakes and the venue.

Hannah was so lovely and personable. She’s the type of energy a wedding needs. She blended in wonderfully and organised people in a friendly manner.

Hannah was always quick to respond to questions I had, and although the distance we felt very supported by her. The pictures arrived in good time after the wedding – no lengthy delays.

Looking at the photographs after the wedding was very emotional. Hannah’s photography is moving, the way she captures peoples personalities is incredible. I love seeing moments Hannah captured that we never saw ourselves.

After the wedding is finished and the day has passed all you are left with (accept a giant amount of cake) are your photos. They are what you have to show for one of the most special days in your life. I felt Hannah told the story of our day reflecting the vibe, emotions and scene perfectly through her work.

What would be your best bit of advice to other couples planning their wedding?

Delegate!
It seemed more manageable when I divided all tasks I needed to organise and gave responsibility to my nearest and dearest. It also means you get a few little surprises on the day.