Sophie Holden

We wanted a classic, timeless and elegant feel and our spectacular venue, Pynes House really was the perfect backdrop to our day, nestled in a valley in the heart of Devon not far from where we live. A string quartet set an ethereal, magical ambience by playing romantic classics from Debussy contrasted with beautifully modern covers, for 55 of our closest friends and family.

To in keep with the enchantment of Pynes House, Amber Persia created seasonal, romantic and bountiful displays of cream and blush scented garden roses, sweet peas, and jasmine with accents of taupe, toffee and buff. A passionate gardener myself, I grew my favourite ‘cafe au lait’ dahlias in my garden which were incorporated into the floral displays. The flowers complemented the intimate and cosy atmosphere, all lit softly by candle-light and the golden autumnal sunshine.

After four years of planning and re-arrangements due to Covid, we wanted to ensure our day was as much a celebration for our guests as well as for us. So, to get the party in full swing, we hired a saxophonist who played funk and soul while our guests tucked into their delicious wedding breakfast by Pickle Shack. By the end of the wedding breakfast the entire congregation was doing the conga!

My fittings took place at the Somerset store and the accessories that Kristine, Emily and Sassi helped me choose emulated the femininity and elegance of the occasion perfectly. The Dolecka Sanda headband paired beautifully with my Josephine gown. Each petal was delicately curled over a candle-flame and adorned with a tiny pearl at the centre into a modern, statement headpiece. I also chose a bespoke Cathedral length veil with stitched edge and abstract disk trim by Couture Veil, which featured the same hand-sewn rose petals as my headband, softly scattered like confetti onto the veil, adding texture and romance to my look. My shoes were my something old, I wore my absolute favourite pair of Jimmy Choo Bing mules with diamond stud strap detailing.