Wedding at Hawkley Church and the Duke of Cumberland Arms
Perched on a breathtaking hillside with commanding views, the sixteenth century Duke of Cumberland Arms isn’t just any old pub. With its flagstones and fires in winter, and its long, proud history, it’s hard to think of a more enchantingly perfect venue for Lauri and Will’s wedding day.
The ceremony itself took place in the gorgeous Norman Church of St Peter and St Paul, Hawkley. It dates back to 1865, and is made from local stone. It’s what I would call ‘A right proper old church’ – Lovely to look at, lovely to be in. It’s one of those cosy churches.
Lauri walked down the aisle in the most detailed Jenny Packham dress I’ve seen to date. The brocading was gorgeous and she carried a bouquet of white, pink and purple blooms, attended by an impossibly cute gaggle of bridesmaids, flower girls and page boys, while her groom was in his morning suit.
After the ceremony we nailed the formal photography on the church steps. Going back to how old the church was, it had a really wide staggered half moon step going on in front of the doors. Perfect for group shots.
The church led to their reception at the Duke of Cumberland Arms where the usual mingling took place.
We used the lovely garden there for photos and dinner followed. Lauri is an accomplished chef so there were lots of surprises there. The kids had a tipi picnic outside and there were party games inside to keep them occupied.
Today…was a good day for my belly. By the end of it I felt like I had been rolled in cinnamon sugar and hit with a spoon and at the end of the night there was a big fireworks display for everyone to enjoy.