Lauren and Matthew’s love story began when they met in London whilst on the same graduate scheme straight out of university. With Lauren from Leicester and Matthew from Liverpool, they believe that it was fate the bought them together back in September 2014. Their love led them to a breathtaking wedding on the 14th of May 2022 at a stunning Cotswold wedding venue. Read on to find out more about their love story and the beautiful details of the wedding day itself.
The Proposal
After just over three years of dating, Matthew planned a proposal that would sweep Lauren off her feet. It took place at The Ritz-Carlton in Bali on the 14th of June 2018. Matthew surprised Lauren with a romantic beachside dinner where they sat under a beautiful pergola adorned with red rose petals. He got down on one knee, holding a bouquet of red roses and a bottle of champagne before celebrating their engagement with a private menu filled with Lauren's favourite tapas dishes. This unforgettable moment was followed by releasing two rescued baby turtles into the ocean, an extremely special and memorable way to end the holiday.
The Planning
Lauren dedicated about a year and a half to plan their dream wedding. Originally planned for October 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to delay. With the help of their understanding suppliers and the reassurance of wedding insurance from John Lewis, they successfully rescheduled to May 2022.
The Fashion
Lauren looked beautiful in a Lillian West by Justin Alexander wedding dress, which she found at the Silver Sixpence Bridal Boutique in Towcester. Her look was complete with a bridal make-up look that excentuated her natural beauty and an elegant half-up hairstyle.
Matthew wore a dark navy suit from Hawes & Curtis, paired with a pink Ted Baker tie. They didn't have traditional bridesmaids or groomsmen but instead focused on their family members. The ladies wore corsages matching Lauren's bouquet, and the gents sported ties similar to Matthew's.
Even their beloved dog, Teddy, had a custom-made matching bow tie!
The Venue
Lauren and Matthew loved the idea of celebrating their wedding day with 60 of their family and closest friends (and of course Teddy!) in a picturesque Cotswolds location, surrounded by stunning scenery, so they chose Lapstone Barn. This was particularly perfect as it offered exclusive-use availability, accommodation for the bridal party and the ability to offer an open bar. The blush, white, and pastel green colour scheme with touches of gold set the stage for an elegant and romantic atmosphere.
The Entertainment
The ceremony featured a heartfelt reading by Lauren's sister, who chose 'The Art of Marriage' by Wilferd Arlan Peterson. They chose the classical notes of a harpist and violinist to play all of the ceremony and reception music. Lauren walked down the aisle to ‘A Thousand Years’ by Christina Perri and the couple exited the ceremony to ‘Unconditionally’ by Katy Perry.
The incredible Gloucestershire Magician impressed and entertained the wedding guests, leaving them in awe and wondering how he performed his tricks. The couple chose a saxophonist and a DJ to play music that ensured that the dance floor was never empty.
The Food
The couple are both huge foodies so this was an important element to get right. The mouth-watering menu included canapés during the drinks reception and a sumptuous 7-course wedding breakfast. The menu included everything from griddled tiger prawns with jalapeño and garlic butter to lemon sorbet with edible flowers.
The evening festivities featured wood-fired pizzas to keep guests energised on the dance floor. All the guests left with a sweet taste as Charbonnel et Walker Pink Champagne truffles were served as wedding favours, adding an extra touch of luxury to the celebration.
Favourite Moments and Tips for Future Couples
Lauren and Matthew cherished their sunset photos, offering a moment of reflection and gratitude amidst the wedding whirlwind, their incredible photographer, Katie Hamilton Photography, captured these precious moments that will last a lifetime.
Their advice to future couples is to plan meticulously but also to savour and enjoy the pre-wedding journey. Don't let the small details overwhelm you; in the end, it's about celebrating your love and commitment!
The Suppliers
In past 12 months
Katie Hamilton Photography
Capture your special day with natural and fun images captured by Katie Hamilton Photography, experienced wedding photographer based in Oxfordshire.
In past 12 months
Richard Parsons - Gloucestershire Magician
Close-up magic to WOW and entertain your wedding guests from one of the UK's top professional magicians.- Videographer - Momento Media
- Venue - Lapstone Barn
- Hair - Lauren Gosling Hair
- Venue Stylist - Styletopia
- Stationary - Retro Press
- Florist - Aqua Wedding Flowers Events
- Violinist & Harpist - Music Students for Hire
- DJ - Dukebox Discos
- Saxophonist - Ash on Sax
- Dress - Silver Sixpence Bridal Boutique
- Cake - Laura Urschel
- Pre-wedding Accomodation - The Lygon Arms Hotel
