Azey

The English Rose and the New Zealand Fern - Caroline and Andrew

When Caroline and Andrew first came to Pickwell, they came with a clear idea of what they wanted their wedding day to look like. Caroline with her love for the countryside and horses, and Andrew with his New Zealand roots and love for the surf; together they created a stylish, Soho chic, seriously cool vibe.  

What we loved about Caroline and Andrew was their love of family.  Baby Jack was only a bump and Eva was nearly a big sister when we first met them, and it has been so wonderful for us to be part of their changing and growing journey as a family.

With a bit of Caroline's vision, style and careful planning and Andrew's creativity, quick humour and passion to 'buy in bulk' (!) their wedding weekend was totally beautiful.


Meet our gorgeous couple in this photo, Caroline and Andrew! Friday began with organising how the table plan is going to work.


As many of the best boys had travelled from New Zealand, there hadn't been time for a fitting, until the Friday morning before the wedding. So funny to see the boys turning the Hallway into a dressing room!


Meanwhile Caroline completed the table plan.  I love this new and creative idea using apple crates stacked together.


The Snug became the nerve centre for the apartment food hamper operations - Caroline's sister Sarah and Andrew's sister-in-law Kerry, carried it out with expert precision!


Caroline and Andrew's wedding stationary all matched and they made these beautiful cards for each apartment.  If you look closely you can see English roses and New Zealand ferns.


The flip flop station also became known as the 'dancing shoes' station!


To keep the Soho-chic theme, Caroline and Andrew hired vintage crockery from our caterers and hired beautiful wooden tables made from reclaimed timber from local company The Plank Company.


My favourite idea of theirs, was hanging these shabby-chic retro lampshades from a tree on the terrace - where guests will arrive for drinks and canapés.


In the evening on Friday, all the guests headed off to local pub The Rock Inn, while, the Cake Fairy, Kate Burt, arrived with this stunning cake.  The roses are all handmade and completely edible.  I watched her create a new petal to make the Rose more blowsy and beautiful - very intricate work!


The cake looked beautiful in the centre bay window.


And then the ballroom was ready. The textures, style and colours look very cool and inviting.

Caroline and Andrew opted for a more unusual table layout in the Ballroom and one The Plank Company designed specifically for Pickwell's Ballroom. It really feels like everyone coming together for a big family get-together and making everyone relax whilst at the same time keeping the sense of occasion.


It wasn't until Saturday morning that I first got to see Caroline's dress. A beautiful gown with delicate details and in-keeping with the style of the wedding. 


Here's a close up on the detail on the dress - just a little bit of sparkle and so much elegance.


Getting ready with all the girls is a lot of fun, Claire Mathers arrived super early to make sure everyone had amazing hair for the day. Here is Caroline with Bridesmaid Vicky, after they had both had their hair done (well nearly done in Caroline's case!)


And the very lovely and talented Anna from Anna RJ came to do everyone's make up.


The funniest moment of the day came from Caroline's fabulous mum Sheila, who whipped out of her bag a hair piece, complete with curlers in! It looked like a cross between hair extensions, a wig and a cuddly pet. She has even given it a name - Derek. Once the stunned Claire had fixed Derek in place,  Sheila looked fab!    


Derryn from Twigs delivered all the flowers - big bouquets for the Bridesmaids, little ones for the little ones...


And lots of pretty buttonholes and corsages for the family - sweet little roses and ferns.


And a beautiful big bouquet for the Bride.


This was a real laugh out loud moment. The girls decided that it would be sensible not to leave Andrew to his own hair devices on the wedding morning, so Caroline sent over a hairdresser and a picture of how she would like his hair to look! She wanted to make sure our groom was as handsome as, ahem, Peter Andre?!



The boys were handling the morning in their stride - a run, followed by showers, followed by glasses of whisky, suits and then finishing the look with the buttonholes.


Speaking of which - Andrew's lovely and very chilled mum was on hand to help. Mum's can be such a calming influence for those pre-wedding nerves.


We haven't as yet met the real stars, Eva and Jack!  They popped in to make sure Dad looked handsome for Mum!


And here they are, shiny as a sixpence!


The finishing touches were put into Caroline's hair - real flowers which match the bouquets are such an effective idea!


A beautiful vintage coach arrived to start taking guests to St George's Church in the village.


Eva and Mum have a touching moment before Eva makes her way to the Church with her cousin bridesmaids.


And here they are - Indie, Eva, Savannah and Scarlett, in their beautiful dresses and gorgeous flower circlets.


When all the guests had gone to the village, there just remained a very proud Dad and our very beautiful bride.


After what was a very moving and personal ceremony, with songs from a local youth choir, guests were brought back to Pickwell for yummy canapés and Pimms out on the Terrace under blue skies and sunshine. 


Our bride and groom headed to the Plateaux for some private photos with their photographer Lucy Shergold, here is a stunning still captured by their videographer Simon Cotter from RUWAC


A few more family shots were taken in our beautiful Italian garden.


Meanwhile guests took thier own photos! Andrew had a great idea for an alternative photo booth and made great use of the rose arbour.


It was time for the wedding breakfast. Guests took their seats for a delicious menu.


They started with these amazing sharing platters I the Moana (Maori for from the sea) A seafood platter, 


and I the Whenua (from the land) a meat platter.

For main course - rack of Devon lamb with dauphanoise potatoes, a minted jus and hand tied local seasonal vegetables.

I missed the food so was unable to get photos of the main course and the dessert which was spectacular! Caroline is known among her friends to love a high tea, so the dessert was served in cake stands and guests could help themselves to chocolate brownies, white chocolate cheesecake, fruit meringues and mini lemon tarts. 


They finished with Port and a West-Country cheeseboard - the heart shaped Godminster cheese is delicious. Our amazing caterers Guess Who is Coming to Dinner  did a fantastic job as always!


With a glass of Prosecco inside him, Master of Ceremonies Jedi read telegrams and introduced each speech.


And the guests toasted the happy couple!


For the evening, the ballroom had been transformed for the cake cutting ceremony, a lot of dancing and a very brilliant band!


The Rise - fresh from their appearance on 'The Voice', had everyone dancing and they were really nice too!


I am a huge fan of this tradition and I was so pleased when Caroline decided to throw her bouquet!  So much fun with all the little bridesmaids and female (and male) guests trying to catch the bouquet!


All that dancing created some more space for a New Zealand tradition: a BBQ 


And a BBQ isn't complete without all the trimmings, salads and sauces!



Finally, it wouldn't be a Kiwi wedding if there wasn't a Hakka! Filmed (badly) in two parts. 



Well done boys, you did it justice! 


Caroline and Andrew, you have both been super amazing, a joy to work with and it has been a privilege to be part of such a special moment in your lives!

Congratulations and lots of love from all of us at Pickwell Manor. We know we will see you again -  hopefully very soon!

xxx

Katie and Ellis - beautifully traditional and flower-full of love!

Katie and Ellis had an early June wedding. Their vision was for a relaxed celebration weekend.

In the many months of planning, Katie and Ellis really took time in making sure that the weekend reflected care and love for all who they invited. They both love to laugh and have a brilliant and quick sense of humour!  On the weekend itself, everyone who came, created a really special atmosphere with some real laugh out loud moments for our gorgeous couple!


The weekend began with the arrival of the groceries.  Katie and Ellis arranged for breakfast hampers to be put in each of their guest's apartments to make sure guests were set for the Big Day! Here's Katie organising the food....


And all the family members joined in to make sure they were delivered to each apartment. Here is Ellis' mum Lynda - she was on hand to make sure all jobs on the "to do" list were ticked off.


The next arrival was the table centre pieces. I'll explain about these amazing flowers in a moment, but look at how gorgeous these are:


The amazing person behind these flowers is Jenny, also known as 'the flower fairy', 'Superwoman' and 'Katie's Mum'!  When I first met her, she told me she was going make up all the arrangements for Katie and Ellis' wedding. She said "they won't be any good, but they will be full of love."  She was mostly right - they were definitely full of love, but they were beautiful!

Here's Jenny hard at work, delegating to Grandma.


Even Auntie Carol was roped into the operation.


Jenny has never had any flower arranging training, she read a book on flower arranging and has clearly taken to it like a duck to water!


The colours all matched Katie and Ellis' colour schemes of pale peach and ivory.


Operation Flowers was a mammoth task, but everyone helped and it was a lot of fun! 
Here's Katie joining in!


Katie's wonderful friend and bridesmaid Sam, made for her this gorgeous table plan. It has all the places they will visit on their adventurous honeymoon!


Katie's brother Rob had the important task of delivering the beautiful wedding cake which a family friend made - all the way from Essex to North Devon - must have been a tense journey!


Providing the humour throughout the weekend, was the task given to Howard, Ellis' best man and big brother. I put my foot in it as soon as I met him, by saying he looked just like Ellis.....  Clearly it's the other way round, Howard is on the left, and our gorgeous groom, Ellis on the right!


Here we have some special wedding ducks, looking after a gift from some friends!


This is a glimpse of the "backstage" Pickwell wedding bit - Team Elliott getting the real ale keg ready for Saturday's fun!


In the evening, everyone headed over to the Village pub, The Kings Arms, for some hearty dinner, and one or two drinks before making sure everyone got their beauty sleep!


Saturday morning was a hive of activity in Bliss - the apartment that Katie and the girls got ready in.  Nat from Changing Faces made our beautiful bride and her best girls hair, even more beautiful!


While Rebecca also from Changing Faces did their make up.


Katie even organised for the girls to get their nails done in the morning!


There was such a lovely atmosphere of the girls getting together and having a good giggle!


Katie's bridesmaids Annie and Caroline made her this amazing scrapbook documenting her Hen do - sounded amazing, kayaking, games and lots of fun - such a sweet idea!


Notice these super cool dressing gowns Katie bought for all her bridesmaids - you can only just see it, but in sparkly writing it says "Bridesmaid" on the back, here's Annie modelling hers.


Even Lynda had one "Mother of the Groom"!


Now, I had so much fun being around the girls getting ready, I totally forgot to look in on the boys!  The first I saw of Ellis was when he made the transformation into groom and took his place greeting his guests.


Our groom and his best boys looked very handsome in their navy blue suits


And then it was time for the bride to make her walk down the aisle, bridesmaids first.


Then Katie with her lovely dad, Kevin.


Katie and Ellis had a beautiful and atmospheric ceremony in our ballroom, with twinkling tea lights, and the beautiful flowers Jenny had made. Katie walked down the aisle to one of my favourite songs - "Yours" by Ella Henderson.


During the signing of the register, their talented friend and bridesmaid, Tiffany, sang and played the guitar. It was so special and meaningful - it created a truly magical ceremony.


Here you can just about see their lovely photographer Georgina from Panache Photography capturing the newly weds walking up the aisle together!


After the ceremony, the new Mr and Mrs, and their guests, enjoyed some delicious canapés - 
yummy Devon crab,


And gorgeous local Beef.


The ballroom was set up for the wedding meal,


And although it was drizzly outside, it didn't stop our bride and groom heading out to get some private photo's of just the two of them, in front of the house!


After photo's the bride and groom greeted everyone as they entered the Ballroom for the delicious wedding meal.


Guests enjoyed this beautiful chicken and avocado starter.


And our caterers Guess Who is Coming to Dinner really outdid them with a rack of lamb, dauphanoise potatoes and seasonal local vegetables. Sadly I missed taking a photo of the main course, but I did get one of the guests enjoying the delicious meal!


And the pudding is a favourite of mine: passion fruit parfait with a mango coolie - so fresh and scrummy!


And then it was time for the speeches. Dad, Kevin, proudly took centre stage first to speak for his daughter.


Ellis gave a heartfelt, humorous and beautiful speech, thanking all family and friends for their love and support.


And then, Howard gave one of the funniest best man's speech we've heard. In a "This is your Life" style, Howard covered off Ellis' life in only the way a brother can. I cannot repeat a lot of it, but it opened with: 
Now, there are some things you never do in life: 
1. Eat yellow snow
2. Shout bomb on a plane
3. Wee on an electric fence
4. Compliment a man's watch while at a urinal
5. Ask your brother to do your best man speech!


Following speeches, guests headed to the Terrace for coffees, Devon fudge and a group photograph.


Katie and Ellis cut their wedding cake with a knife Jenny gifted to them when they got engaged. I am certain it will be used to cut several more significant cakes in their lives together.


After cutting the beautiful cake, they made their way onto the dance floor for the first dance!


It wasn't long before EVERYONE joined them!


Well, when I say everyone, I mean most...  others found the garden games more appealing in the evening!  Ellis is a big fan of garden games so brought along lots to add to tennis and giant chess.  This little one enjoyed a spot of evening cricket!


Meanwhile Ellis and bridesmaid Caroline enjoyed a shot of wedding day tequila!


Katie and Ellis, you have both been a joy to get to know, your wedding weekend was one that was full of laughter and such beautiful moments. We hope you and your family will all visit us again.  But in the meantime, all of us at Pickwell wish you both a lot of luck and happiness in your epic backpacking trip around South America!

Mucho amor y felicitaciones! 


Much love and Congratulations!
xxx

Ellie and John Jo's beautiful 'garden party' wedding

As spring met summer, Ellie and John Jo had a gorgeous wedding with spring flowers and heart warming, balmy Devon sunshine.  They wanted a relaxed "garden party" feel to their day: garden flowers, bunting, cool colours, and twinkling tea lights.


Meet Ellie and John Jo - our completely gorgeous couple:


Over the course of a year, they had meticulously planned a perfect weekend. Beginning on the Friday, Ellie, her lovely Mum and Dad (Lesley and Stuart), John Jo, and his cool surfer mum (Carol), decorated the house.


Look at the beautiful favours. Wild flower sachets in these cute bags,  all sewn by Lesley.


Lesley also made all the bunting, with some help from Ellie and Carol too.  It was a mammoth task, but well worth it, as everywhere looked so pretty. There was bunting outside, inside and even on the bar!


Here's a photo of Charlie from The Real Cut Flower Garden who grows all the flowers she works with in her own garden.  Ellie and John Jo wanted in-season flowers, so Charlie's flowers were perfect!


The wild flowers really lifted the entrance hallway.


These beautiful lanterns, which Ellie made from old jam jars, made the Bride's aisle look magical!


The vintage china completed the garden party look in the Ballroom.


And Voila! The Ballroom was ready for the next day.


There was a really chilled vibe at Pickwell on the Saturday morning,  John Jo and his best boys enjoyed a full english breakfast.


Meanwhile, Ellie, Lesley and Stuart had tea and soaked up some morning sunshine at the back of the house - she had to make sure the groom wouldn't see her before the moment!


Although the Saturday was Ellie and John Jo's wedding day, it was also a very important day for their niece. Grace is 2 years today! Ellie popped to Grace's apartment to give her a big birthday present!  It looks like Henry wanted to wear the birthday badge though!


And then it was time to get ready, here are Ellie and her sister (and Bridesmaid) Janine having hair and make up by Gemma and Gemma from Changing faces.


Getting ready is one of my favourite parts of the wedding day - just the girls, a few glasses of fizz, hair spray, make up and lots of laughter as they help each other into their wedding clothes!  Here is Ellie helping Abi, her other Bridesmaid and best friend, into her fabulous bridesmaid dress.  


And then Janine too (massive thanks to Rebecca Roundill, Ellie and John Jo's lovely photographer for letting me use some of her wonderful photo's for this blog - you'll see some more in a moment!)


Then, it was time for Henry and Grace to get in their page boy and flower girls clothes. Completely adorable!


Meanwhile, the boys were having their own fun getting ready.


Best Man Guy explores other purposes for a tie!


Finally, we get to see Ellie in her Wedding dress. As you can see, she looks stunning.  The lace and the little bit of sparkle is glamorous and effortlessly cool - the dress was perfect for Ellie!


While Ellie was chatting through formalities with the registrar, the Bride and Groom's mothers, Lesley and Carol took a moment!


And then it was time for the Bride to walk down the aisle, a few tears and a quick kiss... 


...proud Stuart led his daughter towards the Rose Arbour.


Here's a photo of the ceremony, the guests stand to welcome the bride to really beautiful music by Sorelli Strings. It was a really meaningful ceremony, a few tears and lots of cheers!


Here are the newly married MR and MRS as their guests throw confetti over them (Again, I wish I could take credit for this, but this is the talented Rebecca Roundhill)!


After the ceremony, guests enjoyed Pimms and fizz on the Terrace in the sunshine.


And tucked into some delicious canapés, thanks to our wonderful and super talented caterers Guess Who is Coming to Dinner? 



While some guests enjoyed getting involved in our garden games! I think Henry fancies his chances at Wimbledon later this year - watch out Murray!


This gave Ellie and John Jo a quick moment to sneak away to our woods for some atmospheric wedding photos - they really are a gorgeous couple!


It was time for the Wedding meal! All guests took their seats to welcome in Ellie and John Jo.


*Confession alert* I put my camera down somewhere and lost it for a while during the wedding, (which is why I am grateful to Rebecca Roundhill for her photo's) but it means I only managed to take a photo of the delicious starter - Black Sea Bream! They had a beautiful Rack of Lamb main course with dauphanoise potatoes and local Devon vegetables, and a summery Eton Mess for desert.


Stuart began the speeches, he said such sweet things about Ellie - such a great Dad!


John Jo's speech included an all important singing of 'Happy Birthday' for Dear Grace!


And then came Guy's speech.....  Can you tell how the groom was feeling about this last speech??!


In actual fact, Guy's speech was hilarious and heart felt in equal measure. No-one could have laughed any more.... or been more teary at the end, least of all him! Well done Guy! You certainly deserved that Whisky!


I must share this photo with you, while the speeches were going on, Henry decided he'd had enough of all the grown up chatter, and found this awesome wig in the photo booth props box! 


Ellie and John Jo love their cheese and so decided that for their wedding cake they would have a cheese cake!  All locally sourced from West Country Cheese, here in Barnstaple.


While everyone went outside for a group photo, the Pickwell team transformed the Ballroom ready for a fun evening of dancing!


The Bride and Groom cut their cake


And the first dance began.


It wasn't long before they were joined by all of their family and friends!


Ellie and John Jo had a great idea for their photo booth, a personalised banner with their own props!


The homemade lanterns twinkled outside as the evening came to a close, it had been such a beautiful day!


In the morning, bright eyed and bushy tailed, Ellie and John Jo and their guests enjoyed a delicious cooked breakfast courtesy of our chef Lee and his team.


They were able to relive the wedding day and share stories of who's dance floor moves were the best, or who had the funniest photo in the Photo Booth, as well as say a meaningful thank-you and good bye to all their guests.


And then it was time to leave Pickwell, although not without one last trick from John Jo's best boys! What's that rattling noise.........?!  


Ellie and John Jo, it has been a delight to meet your families and all of your friends, the care and consideration for those you love showed in volumes - it has been a joy to see your wedding grow from your ideas to a wonderful reality!

See you soon when you are in North Devon again

xxx






Rob and Kat's Natural, Local and Coastal Wedding




This was a proper local wedding and a celebration of the things that Rob and Kat love the most: 
their family, each other, Poppy the puppy and the great outdoors – especially the beach!

Rob and Kat brought a real sense of the laid back Devon vibe throughout the weekend. It all began on Friday with a cup of tea!


While Kat and her team decorated the ballroom with beautiful pieces of driftwood, candles and these beautiful pots of homemade Jam (made by Rob’s mum Mary and labels made by Kat).


Everyone then regrouped for the “Big Bunting Hang”. Amazingly, this was one piece of Bunting which Kat’s talented Mum made – it was the biggest piece of bunting I have ever seen – it zig-zagged across the whole length of the Ballroom! Everyone had fun hanging it… “to me, to you…!”


Rob and Kat together wrote an itinerary of their wedding weekend on our big chalkboard, so that everyone knew what was going on at different times of the day, and signed it off together!


Their beautiful wedding cake had this gorgeous cake topper made by Kat herself. While we were planning their wedding, at the meeting on her 'to do' list was always “make Rob” so it was great to see miniature Rob finally made and joining Kat and Poppy the puppy!



So on a blustery Autumn Saturday morning, Kat and her closest family and friends, started the day with a cup of tea in jammies! Meanwhile the boys were up early and headed off for an 11k run!


Bridesmaid Kate carefully laid out everyone’s beautiful dresses.


We got to see the beautiful Wedding Dress – a real classic gown with a contemporary twist -


and the Bride started to get ready.


Whilst everyone was getting ready, the very talented Kelly from Offshore Blooms arrived with Rob and Kat’s flowers – beautiful sunflowers – perfect for this outdoorsy, fun-loving couple. Kat decided on sunflowers after cycling past lots of these happy blooms earlier in the summer!


I took up the buttonholes to give to Rob – his Dad bore witness to Rob taking the box of beautiful blooms, in case Rob put them down and lost them!


Meanwhile, Kat showed a very beautiful response to her bouquet. She was so moved as it was an “I’m getting married today” moment.

Such a cheerful choice of flowers!


Here are three of the bridesmaids Claire, Charlotte and Emma with their bouquet’s. Having everyone get ready together is lots of fun, there was much laughter and cheer from Kat and Rob’s family!


After such an autumnal start, the day took a beautiful turn for Rob and Kat. The view across to Baggy Point was crystal clear – perfect for our beach loving couple.


Meet Kat’s gorgeous and very proud Dad, Tom, all dressed and ready to give Kat away.


Back in our apartment Affinity, the wonderful Hannah from Brighteye Beauty finishes Bridesmaid Claire’s Make-up.


While Amy from Tangles finishes beautiful Kat’s hair


While the girls finish getting ready and put their dresses on, the boys were busy in the apartment next door. In the background here is Mike Wells, Rob and Kat’s wonderful photographer.


Rob and his best boys are keen cyclists, so while I was chatting to Rob and his Dad, I was surprised when Best Man Ian walked in, in nothing but his “Crown Joules boxers” (all the boys wore these pants as it is a play on the surname of the Groom - you can buy your own here!) and these fabulous red spot socks! Red Spots for the Tour De France’s King of the Mountain! 


And of course the Groom wore yellow socks for the 'Yellow Jersey' or Tour de France Winner. One day Rob, you may win the actual Yellow Jersey… Just remember us at Pickwell when you do!


Kat and Rob were married at St Brannock’s Church in Braunton. Here we have the very handsome Groom and his best boys leaving for Church. We love the top hats - they are perfect for a Wedding.


Just before they left, just time for a groom photo with Rob’s mum, wearing blue for her boy!


As the boys were leaving, we got our first glimpse of Kat in her dress - stunning!


A moving picture of Mum with her daughter on her wedding day. Wedding days are such special moments for mum’s and Linda glowed all weekend with pride!


A stunning photo Mike Wells set up – I sneaked in to take this photo of Kat in front of our window in Affinity!


This is William; Kat’s brother and sister-in-law's son, who had a VERY important role as Page Boy!


Here is our Bride ready to be married at Church…


Followed by her wonderful bridesmaids.


Last minute check before everyone headed off – all looked beautiful; classic but still capturing Kat and Rob’s fun and laid-back Devon personality!


After the ceremony Kat and Rob stayed at the church for private photos. Guests headed back to Sunny Pickwell for Pimms, Ale and Cider – properly Devonshire! They also enjoyed some delicious canapés: Butterfly Prawns, Somerset Bree with tomato and pepper compote, Honey and Mustard Sausages and Yorkshire Puds with Devon Beef.


And here are the brand new Mr and Mrs Joules! 


They arrived back to cheers from all their family and friends.. Check out how beautiful the back of Kat's dress is!


Guests were seated to enjoy glasses of wine and sharing pies: scrummy Steak and Ale and local Chicken and Leek with a host of local seasonal veggies.



In-between courses, the MC read out telegrams from those guests who were unable to make it, but still wanted to send their blessings. Kat’s dad followed, who shared some lovely stories!



For their dessert, Rob and Kat were very decisive: Profiteroles! Our wonderful caterers made these blooming homemade profiteroles and served them with jugs of butterscotch and chocolate sauces. My favourite pud ever!



It was time for Rob’s speech. After gifting his parents a huge pear tree and other lovely plants, he shared stories of how he and Kat met. Kat was visiting her friend who was a housemate of Rob's. Rob claims, he walked into his lounge to find Kat watching 'Jeremy Kyle'… Kat's version is slightly different, she says she was watching 'This Morning'… either way, the rest is history!


Whichever the programme, I’m sure you both now have a fond place for daytime TV?!


Best Man Ian delivered a hilarious speech. He and Rob have been best friends forever.. and Ian had plenty of stories to share!


I love to see how different couples choose to create their guest books – Rob managed to capture the exact moment he proposed to Kat in the Caribbean and they used this defining image for guests to sign around. Amazing!


After the speeches, it was time to cut the wedding cake with a sword! The sword represents Rob’s time in the Armed Forces and is a special family heirloom.


In the evening, Rob and Kat had more friends join them, and they were welcomed with wedding cake, proper Devon Fish n' Chips and the first dance to 'Hey Ho' by The Lumineers!


They chose to have a second dance with everyone to “Happy” by Pharrell Williams.


The band then kicked in, beginning with “White Wedding.” 'The Garden Club' a local North Devon band were brilliant and played some rocking tunes which everyone danced to all night!


To end their amazing day, Kat and Rob’s family and friends gathered around them while they danced in the middle – so cute, a perfect end to a perfect wedding day!


Sunday morning, everyone was sprightly and enjoyed a hearty breakfast in Bliss and Affinity apartment lounges before guests set off for home.




Rob and Kat, you are an amazing couple and really looked after all of your family and friends over your wedding weekend. We loved seeing your wedding plans develop, meeting your friends and family and we so enjoyed your wedding. We’ll see you around North Devon! 

Lots of love and good wishes for your journey together as Mr and Mrs Joules! 

xxx

Zoë and Hugh’s Wonderful Wedding Fiesta!

Zoë and Hugh told us that they wanted something a little less conventional when they chose Pickwell Manor for their wedding day, and as I love new ideas, I was so excited to work with them to see their wedding become a reality.

Hugh proposed to Zoë on the vibrant coast of San Sebastian.  They were keen that their wedding should reflect their journey as a couple.  This meant bringing the Spanish Fiesta to Pickwell Manor but with a twist of Holland (Zoë is half Dutch), a bit of London (where they met), and a good measure of southwest tradition (where they live now)!  


The Friday was all about decorating.  Zoë and Hugh are very creative and they come from creative families.  Here are their parents, Frank, Helen and Maya organising the favours - homemade damson jam - made by Rob, Zoë's Dad! 

    Meanwhile, Abi (Zoë's sister) made the AMAZING wedding cake, here she is prepping.

Creative Groom Hugh was in our apartment 'Bliss',  which temporarily become the arts and craft nerve centre!


Zoë, Maya and Rob were in charge of making sure the Ballroom looked colourful and happy for the wedding Zoë and Hugh had planned.


Here is the awesome Rob (Zoë's Dad) on bunting duty!


And then Kelly from Offshore Blooms arrived to put the finishing touches to the tables - planted herbs and the biggest hydrangea blooms I've ever seen!  The Ballroom looked beautiful.  Zoë and Hugh hired in orange napkins to fit their theme and these long tables to create the Spanish banqueting feast atmosphere.  But more on the feast in a bit....


On Saturday Morning....
Super Abi put the wedding cake together.  Zoë and Hugh had requested a "Naked Cake" - something honest and beautiful.  Zoë had sent Abi a picture of a cake which she quite liked as a guide...  No one knew Abi would literally recreate the cake...That's why I say Super Abi!


And voila! Here it is:


Kelly arrived in the morning to deliver the bouquet's all beautiful and fresh, as you can see - Zoë and Maya were thrilled!

And here is why, the bouquet's were stunning - such bold and bright colours, perfect for a late Summer/early Autumn wedding.


Hugh LOVES to surf. As a joke, he left his wetsuit hanging next to the Brides dress, for a split second I thought he might actually be getting married in a wetsuit!


Wetsuit removed, Hugh and his best boys went for a morning surf and at Pickwell, we got a first look at the dress.


                                      Zoë is friends with a hairdresser and make-up artist. 
                              They came all the way to Pickwell to help our bride get ready.



And then she was ready! Here is beautiful Zoë with her lovely and proud father Rob.


Zoë and Hugh really made every moment of their wedding meaningful and special to them and their families.  Zoë always said that her best friends would be with her, and walk up the aisle with her and Rob.  So lets meet Abi, Rishi and Baber, the bridesmaid and bridesmen.


And just before the walk to the ceremony!


All guests were upstanding for the Bride as she walked up the aisle to 'Chan Chan' by 'Buena Vista Social Club', played by the brilliant Jon Boyes a Spanish guitarist.


Zoë and Hugh had a beautiful and moving outdoor ceremony, married under our Rose Arbour decorated with their wedding theme.


Their guests showered these newlyweds with natural petals as they walked down the aisle together as husband and wife. 


I'll take a little break now and share with you Zoë and Hugh's Wedding invitation. We saw Hugh at work earlier in this blog, but here is their wedding invitation he drew!  A mini Pickwell!


It opens up to describe their wedding day:


As the invitation details, after the ceremony, guests were treated to an afternoon tea, complete with finger sandwiches and these scrummy scones.


Zoë and Hugh cut the wedding cake and soon after guests had a glass of refreshing Pimms or Corona in hand.


Guests enjoyed chatting away, sharing stories about Zoë and Hugh and catching up, with beautiful Spanish guitar strumming in the background.


There was a village fête atmosphere in the Italian Garden -  
Some guests took to Chess...


Others played Croquet... meanwhile others played....


HOOK A DUCK!!!
We can see Zoë and Hugh's lovely photographer here in the background, Mark Gawthorne of Evolve photography 


So good was he at getting everyone together, a group photo was taken just before guests were called into dinner.


Before guests entered the Ballroom, they were able to see Hugh's hand-made table plan. I was very excited to see that Pickwell had become it's own tube line! Each table was named after a significant place to Zoë and Hugh. And as Hugh aptly put it, the underground only has fond memories to people who no longer have to use it - I would have to agree!


Zoë and Hugh decorated the sideboard in our entrance hallway for guests to leave cards of congratulations.


The Bride and Groom entered the Ballroom last to much applause from their guests 


The Ballroom was filled with cheer and chatter, as wine was poured.


And a beautiful sharing tapas menu was served.


Due to the sharing nature of the meal, I was unable to take pictures of each of the different dishes, so you will have to take my word that they were each beautifully presented and tasted like a piece of heaven.  Zoë and Hugh combined some crowd pleasers with some adventurous tapas.  It was wonderful to see everyone tucking in, trying and enjoying every element of the menu. Our wonderful caterers Guess Who is Coming to Dinner really excelled themselves.


With full tummy's it was time for my favourite bit of a wedding - the speeches.
First was Rob, who shared funny stories about Zoë when she was little!


Hugh's heart melting speech included a reciting of a poem he had written especially for his new wife. Literally, not a single dry eye in the Ballroom.


Best Man Steve continued the theme of making guests teary....  only this time, tears of laughter as he showcased some, ahem, hilarious photo's and a video clip of Hugh!


Hugh's brother Paul arranged a sweepstake on the best man's speech - all the proceeds from the sweepstake went to St Francis Hospice, a charity very close to Hugh and Paul's hearts.  Here the "high five" moment when table "Streatham" won!


After dinner, it was time for a fiesta - in the form of a Ceilidh.
Here are Zoë and Hugh performing their first dance!


Doe-sey doe-ing...


And then everyone joined in!


While guests worked off their dinner to the ceilidh, other guests discovered the Photo Booth props!


Just as everyone danced up an appetite, an evening selection of delicious local west-country cheeses were served for everyone to graze on.


The evening drew to an end, as our newlyweds danced their last dance,  and their guests clapped and cheered!


Zoë and Hugh, you have been a joy to spend time with and are a dynamic and extraordinary couple.  Your wedding has been a vibrant and fun weekend - one that reflects the kind, thoughtful and loving people you are. We wish you every happiness in your adventures together as husband and wife.
 Come back and see us again soon!
xxx




Mike and Katherine's English Country Garden Wedding

Mike and Katherine had a beautiful June wedding.  An 'English Country Garden' theme showered Pickwell Manor with beautiful, delicate decorations and even more beautiful and warm people.
After a challenging start to their wedding journey, they discovered Pickwell Manor, and these two London lovebirds became at home with our stunning coastal views, Devonshire lanes, beautiful gardens and chilled out style. 

The weekend started with a quick stop at the supermarket. Mike and Katherine, together with their close family, created Breakfast Hampers for each of the apartments, so all guests staying with us could have a hearty (and healthy) wedding breakfast!


 We kept a close eye on the weather all weekend and although at times it did tease, it stayed warm and dry.


As well as decorating, Fridays are a great time for a Wedding rehearsal.  Mike and Katherine have been together for 14 years and so felt that to reflect the time they have spent together, they would walk up the aisle together in celebration of their future together.


The Friday evening pre-wedding dinner! Our Chef prepared a wonderful feast that meant everyone could get together, mix and mingle and enjoy some fabulous food ahead of the Big Day!


 I have got to know Mike and Katherine really well over the course of planning their wedding, so from this picture, I know two things: 1) Mike chose this yummy chocolate torte pud and 2) He shared this sparingly! 


While the merriment's were taking place in the Snug, a Claire shaped visitor arrived with a HUGE van full of FLOWERS!!


There were tonnes more than the ones in this picture.  There were some stunning flowers - hundreds of roses in shades of pinks, apricots and cream, and my all-time faves: Peonies!


Claire (from Amarylis) arrived late in the evening and got to work in the Ballroom and then when everyone had gone to bed, she worked her floral magic in Entrance Hall, stairs and hallway.   


So when everyone awoke in the morning, they had an amazing surprise!


 The scent from the flowers was heavenly!


 They went all around the stairwell marking where our couple would walk together to make their vows.


I might have been particularly amazed with the flowers - I took a LOT of photos - but the stairs just looked so pretty......


Last one of the stairs I promise - Claire you did an amazing job!


On Saturday morning, The Ballroom was set for Mike and Katherine's wedding ceremony.  Katherine and Mike wanted to get married indoors, in a close and intimate ceremony.


While we made the final touches to the Ballroom, checking our fireplaces were Pickwell pretty....


The Wedding Cake arrived!!


Mike and Katherine are both keen divers! Mike was in charge of choosing the Wedding Cake and so the wedding cake couldn't be anything other than a chocolate cake! Diana (Lick the Spoon) did an amazing job!


Every piece of decoration was a different type of chocolate and totally edible.... Can anyone find Nemo???


That's one very happy Bride and Groom!  Again, the smell of chocolate filled the Ballroom - just amazing!


While we were all fussing over the wedding cake, the hallway was filled with beautiful clarinet music.... That would be Katherine's mum playing "Wedding March" upstairs in our Affinity apartment. 

  
The music was the much needed call for everyone to start getting ready, and this is the first glance of the dress.


While the girls readied themselves, the boys decided they would only need about half an hour, so they did what boys do best (especially when they haven't seen each other in a while) - chat!  Here's our Groom with his Best Men.


Claire Mathers made sure that Katherine's hair was every bit Bride. 


'Florist Claire' arrived back with the Bride and Bridesmaid's bouquet - stunning flowers in keeping with the flowers decorating the house.


 Cravats tied (After checking an internet tutorial on how to tie a cravat) and finally button-holes pinned in place, proved the boys were right - not a second over half an hour. Here we have Best Man Oli, Usher Percy and the very dashing Mike. 


 So excited was this bride to get married, Katherine wasn't too far behind her Groom in getting ready. Here she is, in her stunning and elegant wedding dress.  Absolutely beautiful!


Now, here's the moment I get to introduce you to Sally - Katherine's wonderful, funny and fabulous Mum.


Time for a quick family photo. From left to right; Angela (representing Mike's family), Verity (Katherine's sister), the beautiful Katherine, Ciaran (Katherine's Pa - more about his amazingness in a minute), Sally (Mum), and Sam (bridesmaid).


Ciaran was Master of Ceremonies. He was brilliant. Totally chilled and a pillar of support to Katherine, and her whole family, on this important wedding weekend. Always there with a cheerful smile, a reassuring word and a great story! 


This was a really special moment. Just before it was time to walk up the aisle, Sally offers Katherine some words of wisdom, to prepare Katherine for the journey ahead.


And then the ceremony began in The Ballroom. Sally and Ciaran entered first.


 Followed by Sam and her husband James,


and finally, Mike and Katherine.


The train on the dress was traditional and so elegant. 


Verity's fantastic reading of 'The Lovely Dinosaurs' was perfect for our couple.


 After the ceremony, the guests went outside onto the Terrace, 


for celebratory Prosecco and delicious canapés.


 The sun shone brightly on Mike and Katherine's wedding, as guests mingled on the Terrace and Italian Garden.


All the while, a serious game of Croquet ensued!


And Giant Jenga can be used for many purposes.... including building castles?!!


And other well known words/sayings this one - from young Nico - Mike's relative. 


As guests entered the Ballroom, Mike and Katheine shared a private moment on the stairs surrounded by the wonderful scents from the Peonies and Roses.


The table plan reflected their love for all things underwater.... with a twist!


Each guest had to find their name and find the table with the matching undersea icon.


Our caterers excelled themselves with a tremendous wedding feast; seared beef to start,


 perfect local chicken en croute, with seasonal vegetables,


and to finish, refreshing Lemon Brûlée - yummy!


 Following the Wedding Breakfast, it was time for speeches!


Oli's Best Man's speech was the perfect level of entertainment, humour, risk and all round fun!


 Toasts and the 'cake cutting' ceremony followed - how they ever cut into such a detailed cake, was truly a challenge for the Bride and Groom!


 Coffee was served on the Terrace.


Here are members of our wonderful catering team all ready to serve tea, coffee...


And homemade Devon fudge.


 Hang on a minute.... who might these people be?


It says Peony, to match the flowers in the house... we'll see more of this later!


 Meanwhile, Sally had sneaked away from the wedding party and into Mike and Katherine's apartment, to make some fun wedding decorations!


Balloons and gifts,


Champagne.. and some more mischievous gifts for our newly weds!


Then it was time for the first dance.


The dance floor was soon filled to the cool jazzy tunes from Hip Cats.


Instead of a guest book, Mike and Katherine had a mini Jenga set engraved with their wedding date and initials for guests to sign their messages on. After the wedding, Mike and Katherine will send it back for these messages to be engraved onto their mini Jenga set - what a fab idea!


As the band ended their set, everyone was invited outside to stand on the tennis courts for a surprise fireworks display! The Peony thing in the brown wrapper was a Peony firework!


This beautiful, low noise display lit up a perfect summer wedding night - I have to thank Mike's little cousin Nico for this fantastic photograph!  


After the fireworks display, everyone was treated to a soul warming mulled cider, some cheese and the amazing chocolate wedding cake.


And then it was the morning after an amazing wedding. If only I could capture the scent and bottle it up!


 We waved our newly weds off to a bright and happy future. Mike and Katherine, we have loved getting to know you both and sharing your wedding journey with you. Your excitement and enthusiasm for your wedding has been a joy! Your care in the planning made sure that each and every one of your guests had been thought about and it is a testament to the wonderful people you both are.  We have loved meeting your whole family and your friends and we wish you every happiness in your future together.  



Come and visit us soon!
xxx