A black and white photo of a wedding ceremony in a church, showing the bride and groom kneeling at the altar facing the religious symbols and stained glass windows. Picture taken at a wedding in Shropshire planned by Bootique Weddings and Events.
A person holding a colorful illustrated brochure or pamphlet with text and images, featuring a man with glasses and a woman holding a bouquet of flowers. Picture taken at a wedding in Shropshire planned by Bootique Weddings and Events.
Decorated dining table with white chairs, set with glasses, plates, and cutlery, in front of a backdrop of ivory curtains with string lights and draped fabric ceiling at an event venue. Picture taken at a wedding in Shropshire planned by Bootique Wed

Sam & Felicia

Sam and Felicia tied the knot at the start of 2025 in the heart of Astley, Shropshire, choosing a cosy village hall as the setting for their intimate celebration. Their wedding was a true reflection of who they are - personal, relaxed, and refreshingly non-traditional. Straying from formalities, they crafted a day that was unapologetically their own, and one they’ll forever cherish.

The morning began with Felicia getting ready at home, surrounded by her bridesmaids. Rather than following the typical timeline, the couple shared a special “First Look” at the village hall—a quiet, meaningful moment that set the tone for the day. From there, they walked hand-in-hand with her bridesmaids down to the local church, allowing them a peaceful moment together before the ceremony began and to settle any nerves.

The ceremony took place in the local church, a place with sentimental ties to the family. It was a heartfelt and sincere ceremony, perfectly capturing the essence of their relationship. Their order of services were beautifully handmade by one of the bridesmaids, adding another personal touch to the day's celebrations. After exchanging vows, the newlyweds stepped outside with their guests for group photos, capturing memories in the crisp January air.

A couple on their wedding day with foreheads and noses touching, holding hands, in front of a church building. Picture taken at a wedding in Shropshire planned by Bootique Weddings and Events.
A black-and-white photo of a newlywed couple walking hand in hand down a quiet alleyway, with a church tower in the background. The bride is wearing a long gown and veil, holding a bouquet, and the groom is in a suit.
A woman with wavy brown hair wearing a white satin robe, smiling, and looking down. Picture taken at a wedding in Shropshire planned by Bootique Weddings and Events.

Guests were then welcomed into the warm glow of the village hall, greeted by arrival drinks and the inviting scent of delicious canapés—Mediterranean tartlets, pulled pork crostinis, and chicken fajitas offering a flavourful preview of the evening ahead. Inside, the space was lit by candles and filled with warmth, a perfect contrast to the chilly winter outside.

Sam and Felicia were announced as husband and wife for the first time to the song “If I Got It” by Aaron Frazer, entering the room to applause and smiles. They spent time mingling with loved ones, sipping drinks and enjoying the atmosphere, before stepping out with their photographer Adam for a few portraits. Felicia braved the cold in her stunning V-neck satin gown, featuring a silver jeweled belt that added a touch of sparkle to her timeless look.

Dinner was a two-course feast, offering a hearty selection of burgers, lamb tagine, and falafel kebabs, followed by indulgent sharing platters of cheesecakes, Bakewell tarts, and the fan favourite of lemon posset. Speeches followed, with the father of the bride, the groom, and the best man delivering a perfect blend of emotion and humour—touching and witty, with plenty of laughter and love.

True to their unconventional spirit, Sam and Felicia opted out of a traditional cake cutting, instead offering guests a sweet table loaded with doughnuts and crisps—which didn’t last long! The couple also skipped the first dance, replacing it with a lively pub quiz. This fun twist brought guests together, sparking conversation, laughter, and even a little competitive spirit.

A newlywed couple stands in front of a church entrance, sharing a romantic moment, with the bride holding a bouquet and the groom wearing a black suit. Picture taken at a wedding in Shropshire planned by Bootique Weddings and Events.
Person in black gloves holding a wooden tray of assorted appetizers, with another person in the background holding a drink and a bite of food. Picture taken at a wedding in Shropshire planned by Bootique Weddings and Events.
A person filling out a quiz or worksheet titled 'Quiz Yourself'. The paper has spaces for responses and is on a table. Picture taken at a wedding in Shropshire planned by Bootique Weddings and Events.

Later in the evening, the couple did a “photo dash,” racing around the room to snap a picture with every table in front of their glamorous backdrop - all within the duration of “Dancing in the Moonlight” by Toploader. It was a playful and memorable moment, full of joy and energy.

As the evening unfolded, the room was transformed for dancing and games. Board games were scattered throughout the space, giving guests the chance to play and unwind. Drinks flowed, tea and coffee were served, and the atmosphere remained cosy and welcoming well into the night. The day ended with Sam and Felicia thanking their guests personally, surrounded by the warmth of friends, family, and the glow of a day well spent.

Their wedding was a beautiful example of how doing things your own way can create something truly meaningful. Free from tradition, full of heart—Sam and Felicia’s day was a celebration of their story, their way.

Suppliers:

Venue: Astley Church and Hall

Wedding Planner: @bootiqueweddingsandevents

Photographer: @aptphotography

Caterer: @lemon_grove_catering

Venue Dresser: @dressedfortheoccasion

Hair: @nicoledavieshairsylist

Makeup: @feliciasimonebeauty

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