Laura & Patrick's beautiful Cotswolds wedding
Castigliano bride Laura and husband Patrick married in the beautiful village of Castle Combe in the Cotswolds and celebrated with a fabulous reception at Manor House Hotel.
The gorgeous surroundings of Castle Combe, known as England’s prettiest village made the perfect backdrop to their wedding weekend which was attended by 250 guests from all over the world.
How did Patrick propose?
We were enjoying a lovely post-Christmas trip to Venice and had spent a few relaxing days together, exploring the beautiful city. I didn’t know at the time but Patrick was frustrated at his struggle to find a private moment to propose in a city bustling with Christmas tourists! On our last evening, he plucked up the courage to ask on a romantic gondola ride and proposed with a beautiful ring he had chosen himself. After a few celebratory Bellini cocktails, I asked Patrick to get down on one knee to make the proposal official!
Both living and working in London, the couple decided they wanted to have a weekend away to celebrate their wedding while also showing guests travelling from Ireland and America the beautiful English countryside.
Having enjoyed many weekends away to the Cotswolds, they chose the beautiful Manor House in the village of Castle Combe.
“Our 250 guests made themselves at home in the tiny village for our wedding and ‘happily ever after party’ the next day. It was such a beautiful setting for our wedding weekend and I love that we have the perfect excuse to visit again each year”
What did you enjoy the most about your Caroline Castigliano experience?
Everyone at Caroline Castigliano is incredibly friendly and highly experienced – you feel in safe hands when making, what for many brides, is the most important decision of your wedding preparation. Caroline’s staff understand that finding the perfect wedding dress is an experience treasured by both the bride and her family. They helped me realise the vision I had for my dress and assisted me in creating the ‘look’ I wanted. During the alterations process, Caroline ensured that my bespoke gown fit me perfectly so that I felt confident on my wedding day.
What did you like the most about your dress and what was the reason for choosing it?
The silhouette of the dress was the most important detail to me: I wanted a shape which was elegant and timeless. I was drawn to the silk as soon as I walked in and loved the drama of the full skirt and long train. The lace sleeves allowed the perfect amount of detail without detracting from the beautiful fabric and classic shape. I wanted full lace sleeves for the church ceremony, with the option to change the look for the evening. The Caroline Castigliano team helped me to create my bespoke dress from the Alexis gown, by creating full-length sleeves and having the option to remove the lace shrug later in the day.
Favourite moment of the day?
The anticipation of walking into the church was both exciting and terrifying! My Dad has always been a calming influence on me and I couldn’t have walked down the aisle without him by my side. Being greeted by the smiling faces of all of our friends and loved ones was such an incredible feeling and then seeing Patrick waiting for me at the altar made all the anticipation worthwhile. Everyone made such an effort to make this the most memorable day of our lives – it’s quite overwhelming to feel the love and support of all your guests, all wishing you well in your new life together.
Any tips for brides-to-be?
As everyone will tell you, your wedding day really does go by quickly, so try to savour every moment together. Finding the right photographers to capture these memories is so worthwhile. Nicola and Glen captured every detail of our day beautifully and were incredibly warm, professional and genuinely lovely people.
Photographers | Weddings by Nicola and Glen
Venue | The Manor House Hotel
Marquee | Abbas Marquees
Hair & Make-Up | Claire Nicole Hair & Make-Up
Florist | Flowers by Passion
Cake | The Fairy Cakery
