Sarah and Gavin Saturday 5 August 2023
Sarah and Gavin tied the knot on Saturday 5 August 2023 with a ceremony in the chapel followed by a beautiful reception in the Radcliffe room.
They say when you know you know, and this was certainly the case for Sarah and Gavin. From their first meeting at an Italian restaurant to their NYE engagement (at Rudding Park!) this love story is filled with kindness, security and openness... strong foundations which supported the couple to their wedding day and beyond!
With an incredible eye for detail, S&G transformed the Radcliffe Room with a regal white and gold theme. Think golden chairs, champagne towers and big beautiful floral arrangements... including a surprise centrepiece for the top table!
Read on to find out how they fell in love, chose their suppliers and how a romantic spark turned into a bang!
We hope you feel inspired...
Sarah and Gavin captured by Lynsey Doran Photography
So, how did you two meet?
Me and Gavin met initially at an Italian in Bawtry
When did you know they were 'the one'/how did they pop the question?
I knew he was the one when I took him to meet my family in Marbella for my Birthday, I felt at ease with him around my family, even though Gavin has the tendency to say what he’s thinking without much filter!! I felt comfortable around him and he displayed a lot of love and affection. He’s always made me feel safe and always has my corner. I knew he was one to keep! And at this moment I told him I loved him.
Only 2 months later Gavin asked me to marry him whilst enjoying NYE celebrations at Rudding Park Lodge on the Lakeside. It was Christmassy, everyone was in high spirits and dressed up ready for an evening of celebrations.
Gavin gathered everyone outside onto the decking over the lakeside for a picture, he went back into the lodge to get “his phone” and he came back out and got one knee- I couldn’t believe it I was so shocked. It felt so quick but felt so right! And although he will say Different… I said yes immediately.
What was the biggest MUST HAVE for your wedding?
The fireworks were incredible, the champagne tower, the gold chairs and the beautiful flowers on the top table which was a total surprise!
Which supplier was a real stand out for you? The unsung star who deserves a special mention.
Lynsey Doran our photographer! She was there early, helped myself and Gavin get ready, she as amazing with my dress, got some fantastic shots of our special day and stayed late to capture the fireworks.
What was it in your eyes that gives Rudding Park the WOW factor?
Alongside the décor, grand stairs and lighting, it’s the Rudding staff who go above and beyond to make you feel special.
We’ve just celebrated our first wedding anniversary at Rudding Park and we felt amazing to back and were truly spoilt by Rudding Park. Somewhere with so many happy memories and is definitely one of our favourite places.
How did you style your space? Did your wedding day have a theme?
White and gold
Other than saying 'I do', what is the most unforgettable moment from the day?
The most memorable part about our wedding day… was all of it!! It’s so difficult when anyone asks me the best part, what stood out the most or any dos or don’ts… I can honestly say the lead up to our wedding was exceptionally stressful, emotional… I was a bag of nerves and I worried about everything but the morning of the wedding Dan and the team at Rudding Park were exceptional.
The support of my family, my maid of honour and knowing the love from Gavin who would be waiting for me at the chapel. I can honestly say everyone who we had part of the wedding made my day exceptionally special, memories I will treasure forever. Especially with my mum and dad who I think may have been just as nervous as me!!
What's the best advice you could give to couples who are about to tie the knot at Rudding Park?
Don’t stress, Rudding Park will have everything in hand and help make the day memorable. I’d say make the most of the spa! Begin celebrations early the night before, we did the spa and the lodge which was really special. Also room upgrades are a must! The baths are amazing and it’s great having the view and the space to prep and get ready.
… and have some comfortable shoes to hand!
And finally, we'd love to hear about your experience with Rudding Park....
Best part about the day was the love from everyone there, the team at Rudding who went above and beyond to settle my nerves and to make sure the day ran absolutely perfectly.
Dan was a true star, and I wish I knew the names of the staff who calmed my nerves on the morning and helped Gav get to the Chapel in time!
Supplier Dream Team:
Photographer: Lynsey Doran Photography
Videographer: Sky Weddings
Hair: Rebecca Dickenson Hair Body and Soul
Make-up: Grace and Molly at No Filter Hair & Beauty
Wedding signs: Lottie Louise Designs ltd.
Chairs and styling: Imagine Events
Florist: Flowers by Colette
Entertainment:
Bridal party suits and dresses: Tickled Pink Bridal & Menswear
Cake: Piece of Cake Harrogate