A Cheshire Wedding With a Twist

When Gemma first got in touch to chat about her and Ian's big day it didn't feel like long until I was trusted in her inner circle. Because their day was going to be a day like no other, with happy surprises and secret reveals galore, and I was in on it all and sworn to secrecy!

The plan? Gemma had a special birthday this year (21 of course) and had invited friends and family to a birthday bash at The Hayloft in Great Sankey, Widnes. Little did they know that during the day Gemma & Ian had had a little outing to Chester with their closest family to get married at Chester Town Hall!

The day started calm and relaxed, I met Ian at Chester Town Hall, grabbed some informal portraits, chatted with the lovely registrars and awaited the girls arrival. T

The ceremony was just beautiful, full of heart and laughter and joy. A bijou ceremony in the most beautiful room, The Council Chamber, a room so beautiful and bright with it's stunning stain glass windows, wooden paneling and beamed ceilings.

After the ceremony we worked through a list of group portraits the couple really wanted to make sure we had- I loved the family images but I especially loved the portraits of Gemma and her "something blue" girls. Gemma's friends had all dressed in blue to bring her luck and I just loved this little show of friendship in such a unique way.

Then it was time for the Bride and Groom to take a walk through the vibrant Chester city centre in the glorious sunshine, waltzing among the stunning Tudor shop fronts and hustle and bustle of city life. We mounted the steps to the Eastgate Clock Tower on the city walls for some relaxed portraits of the brand new Bride and Groom.

The couple had opted for a relaxed drinks and meal reception at The Cosy Club, just minutes from the town hall, so once we arrived after their couple portraits their guests were all relaxed and ready to enjoy the celebration and speeches.

And then it was surprise time!

As guests arrived at The Hayloft for Gemma's birthday bash, little did they know that secluded in the rooms upstairs were the newlyweds and their daughters in their wedding finery, awaiting the time to make their big entrance!

As the brilliant DJ Pete Pinnington Productions announced the birthday girl's entrance with the words "they did a thing", the evening guests were astounded to see a Bride and Groom descend the stairs in to the reception room. I have honestly never seen so many shocked, joyful, flapperghasted people in one room! The cheers, the applause, the smiles, the laughter! It was an explosion of joy that seamlessly transcended in to a dance party like no other!

I had the best time getting to know Gemma & Ian, sharing in their little secret and celebrating their day with them! And if you ever wondered if you can trust me with your happy secrets...this is your proof!

Becca x