Lydia & Michael
There’s something truly special about a marquee wedding. It’s intimate, personal, and full of meaningful details. Lydia and Michael’s big day was exactly that. From the moment they got in touch, it was clear they were planning something full of heart, personality, and fun. With a beautiful countryside backdrop, thoughtful styling, and a relaxed yet joyful atmosphere, their wedding was a perfect reflection of them as a couple.
The Lead Up
Lydia and Michael first got in touch last year, looking for a coordinator for their marquee wedding. As with all my on the day coordination couples, I explained that we’d meet four weeks before the big day to go through the final details. However, I always let couples know that they can reach out at any time before that if anything comes up. I’m here to help whenever they need. We stayed in touch over social media in the lead up to the wedding, and the couple even came to visit me at a wedding fayre, which was lovely!
When the four week meeting finally came around, I was so excited to sit down with them properly and hear all about their plans. We went through all the logistics, talked through my role on the day, and I offered to take over supplier communications from that point on. This allows couples to enjoy the final month of planning without stress. We also did a walk through of the marquee layout and discussed practical elements like supplier access, parking, and setup.
Following the meeting, I introduced myself to all suppliers and asked them to direct any further communications my way, giving Lydia and Michael that much needed breathing room. It also helps me feel fully prepared and in control of the day’s moving parts.
As the weekend approached, I headed to the venue the day before to help with marquee setup. Marquee weddings, while incredibly special, come with lots of behind-the-scenes logistics, from generators and water supply to catering tents, waste management and power distribution. Unlike venue weddings, suppliers don’t have a go-to point of contact, which is why I always recommend having a coordinator. Being there in advance meant I could liaise with suppliers during setup, check essential arrangements, and give the couple peace of mind with a final run-through and timeline confirmation.
The Big Day
The morning of the wedding arrived and the atmosphere was full of joy. Lydia and Michael got ready surrounded by their loved ones, while I prepared the marquee and checked that everything was in place. Their charming village setting was adorned with handmade signage, the ceremony was intimate and emotional, and as the church bells rang, guests showered the couple in confetti, a beautiful moment captured beautifully on camera. A surprise visit from their dog, Bonnie, as they exited the church brought even more smiles and happy tears.
One of Lydia’s favourite memories was walking to the reception with many of their guests in tow. They were greeted with Pimms, fizz, and beers, while a string quartet set the tone with classy, Bridgerton-esque tunes. The views from the marquee were breathtaking, and the owners of the home had generously offered their stunning grounds to host the celebrations.
The marquee was simple, elegant, and full of thoughtful details. The top table was dressed with gorgeous florals, greenery hung above the bar and dining space, and personal touches were everywhere, from the hand-built and hand-painted table plan to “Bonnie’s Bar” signage and a selfie mirror that proved a big hit.
As the sun shone, Lydia and Michael mingled with guests, enjoying heartfelt congratulations while the photographer and content creator captured some intimate, beautiful moments. Canapés were served as the bridal party took a few formal photos, and the couple made sure not to miss too much of their drinks reception.
Lydia’s brother took on the role of MC, guiding guests to their seats where personalised menus, sage green ribbon place names, favours, and bottles of wine awaited them. The new Mr & Mrs Dawes entered to Calvin Harris’ “Feel So Close”, a high energy moment filled with waving napkins and cheers!
Over 100 guests enjoyed a delicious three-course meal whilst my team and I worked seamlessly in the background such as assisting the bar, coordinating supplier arrivals, managing staff breaks, and keeping everything on time.
Once the last course was cleared and the final glass of crémant poured, the speeches began. Lydia’s dad, Paul, delivered a heartfelt, humorous speech touching on the families’ shared history. Mike followed with a beautiful tribute to Lydia and their love, before the two best men had everyone laughing with their closing speeches.
As golden hour arrived, so did the evening guests. The Shropshire countryside provided the most perfect backdrop as the newlyweds slipped away for some sunset content. A romantic cake cutting and champagne tower followed before the pizza van rolled up, serving delicious slices well into the night; a real crowd pleaser!
The band took to the stage and welcomed the couple onto the dancefloor with Beyoncé’s “Love on Top.” The energy was electric as guests filled the dancefloor and the celebrations kicked off. But Lydia and Michael had one more surprise up their sleeves! We wheeled out a pre-prepared Apple Sourz shot trolley while “Green Light” played, and the couple handed out shots to their guests. It was a massive hit and kept the party going strong.
The dancing continued late into the night with full hearts, full bellies, and unforgettable memories. Guests spoke of how seamless, joyful, and fun the day had been with stunning views, thoughtful details, and a relaxed, happy vibe throughout.
Lydia and Michael were an absolute dream to work with. They were energetic, kind, and so accommodating. They created a day filled with personal touches, incredible energy, and a whole lot of love.
A wedding to remember, for all the right reasons.
