How did you meet?

We met at a local beer festival in 2019 near where we now live in Dronfield. We had met the previous year, as Abi’s sister at that point was dating one of Jonnys best friends (they are also now married). However we didn’t really speak much the couple of times we did initially meet. We got talking after a few drinks and realised that we actually quite like each other. A few dates later and we made it official.

What made you choose Haarlem as your wedding venue?

We originally booked 3 venues to go and view. Haarlem Mill was the first one and we immediately fell in love with it so the other 2 viewings were cancelled. From the wooden beamed ceilings to the brick walls, they give it an amazing natural look that needs little decoration. The bridal suite was perfect and the staff were lovely and very helpful.

What has been your favourite part of planning your wedding?

We loved making all our big DIY pieces, especially the archway. It was great to see our vision all come together and everything worked so well with the rustic decor at Haarlem Mill. We also loved decorating the venue the day before our wedding with some of our family members, it all felt real when everything was set out exactly how we imagined.

Tell us a bit about your theme or colour scheme? What inspired you, have you made anything yourself or added any personal touches?

The colour scheme was chosen based on the flowers. My favourite flowers are sunflowers, and many years ago I saved a picture of a wedding bouquet on Pinterest (before ever meeting Jonny) that I used as my inspiration for my flowers. All the colours worked so well together, and were perfect for our spring wedding.

As we met at a beer festival we wanted our wedding to feel like our own little countryside festival.

We made lots for our day including an arch at top of aisle, the order of service pallet, place cards, and the table plan. We also had photos of lost loved ones on the shelves in the entrance. Abi’s sister hand painted the chalk board welcome sign, and our neighbours made all the amazing bunting. We had personalised wristbands made for all our guests to add to the festival feel.

What was the most memorable part of your wedding day?

Abi - walking down the aisle to Jonny. It was the most overwhelming emotional moment and the fact that Jonny cried (even though he said he wouldn’t) made me cry even more.

Jonny - Seeing Abi in her dress, she looked absolutely amazing! And when friends lifted me and Abi in the air on the dancefloor so we could dance above everyone! That was really special.

Full list of suppliers:

Photographer - Lou White photography

Stylist - Ourselves

Florist - Tineke Floral

Hair - Beth Jones Hairdressing

MUA - Amy Pollard at The Sanctuary Beauty

Dress - The White One from Charlotte Elizabeth Bridal

Suits - Next

Music - The Sheffield Wedding DJ

Cake - Cakes by Nancy

Anyone else you want to shout out - Both of our families for helping us decorate the day before, and all our friends and family for being there to celebrate our perfect day.

Abi & Jonny