We’ve had some gorgeous weddings come in while I was on maternity leave, and I can’t wait to share them all with you, starting with these romantic nuptials from Polly Alexandre! When Adam proposed to Nancy in Oxford’s University Park under a bridge, it seemed natural to hold their wedding in the city not only where they got engaged, but also where both of them were born. They chose Rhodes House for its grand interiors, wonderful huge dining hall and pretty gardens.

Bridesmaids wore mocha-colored chiffon gowns and white shrugs to keep warm. All of the ladies carried bouquets in shades of pink and red.

Nancy’s favorite part of the day? “Making our vows in church – there was this wonderful light coming through the stain glass windows, which gave the service a really ethereal feel. It was very moving and magical. For fun we loved the confetti moment when we left the church. Bursting out of the doors along a path lined with all our friends and family once we were husband and wife was thrilling.”

Guests enjoyed cocktails on the grounds before sitting down for dinner. The hall was decorated with large pink balloons – a playful juxtaposition to the formality of the venue.

The five-tiered cake was decorated with pink sugar blossoms and ribbon printed with the words “To have and to hold from this day forward.”

SEE THE FULL GALLERY FOR MORE FROM THIS ROMANTIC ENGLISH WEDDING

 

Why did you choose this location for your wedding?  We were both born in Oxford and so a stunning venue in the heart of the city made sense. Also Adam proposed in Oxford University Parks, which is opposite the venue, so it seemed fitting. Rhodes House has a beautiful, traditional English walled garden.

What inspired you when you were planning your wedding?   English roses and peonies, romance, the old fashioned glamour of Hollywood and Adam’s leaning towards formality. (He went to Cambridge University and so insisted on long tables like one has at college dinners.)

What was the best advice you received as a bride?  Be true to yourself.

What advice do you have for other brides?  Enjoy the build up and get as much help from friends and family as possible. I had pompom making parties with friends and family – my father even joined in!

Do you have any budget tips for other brides?  We borrowed things when and where we could. The 1905 car we used as a wedding car belongs to a family friend who collects vintage cars – it was once used by the King of Portugal!

Is there anything else that helps tell the story of the day?  We tried to give guests a tourist feel of Oxford so we hired a City Sightseeing bus to give them a glimpse of the historical university town while we were transporting them from church to the reception.

Photographer: Polly Alexandre / Venue: Rhodes House in Oxford, England / Event Planner: Charley from London Bride / Dress Designer: Angel Sanchez via Browns Bride / Shoes: Manolo Blahnik / Bridesmaid Dresses: By Malene Birger / Flower Girl Dress: Dessy / Floral Designer: Fizz Thomas, 07776 012630 / Catering: Passion for Food / Transportation: Oxford City Sightseeing Bus / Music: Charters Disco / Cake: Sue Wheeler