When and how did you and your partner meet?
Elodie and Joe were partying the night away when their stars aligned. “Joe and I met on an unexpected night out in 2014. We instantly hit it off with the same interests and found out we had so many mutual friends. He even knew my brother!” Such a small world we live in!
What was the proposal like?
A crowd of joy and congratulations welcomed Elodie and Joe’s exciting news on their romantic getaway. “In 2018, we decided to go on a weekend away to Center Parcs. Joe planned to propose in the coming months so took this as his opportunity to buy a ring and propose whilst we are away. Whilst dining in one of the restaurants, he got on one knee in front of everybody. Everybody roared with congratulations followed by a lot of gifted Prosecco and limoncello!”
Did you have an inspiration for the theme of your wedding? If so, what was that?
Elodie and Joe’s wedding was inspired by a beautiful fusion of their two cultures. “We didn’t have a theme as such but I knew I wanted pink and to incorporate our nationalities. Joe is from St Lucia, so we had a Steel Pan Drum and BBQ style food. I am half french, so decided on beautiful french words as our table names.”
Was the style of gown that you chose, what you always imagined or did it surprise you?
Elodie had a bridal love affair waiting for her with wedding gown designer Stella York “My beautiful dress was a fishtail style. I had an idea that this is style I would most likely go for but I was completely open minded on the day and tried all styles. The girls at Minister were so amazing and just knew what would look great! I’ve always loved Stella York gowns so was chuffed when the one I picked was indeed one of hers.”
Can you describe to us your bridal look?
“I loved my hair and make up! With my hair, I decided to go with half up, half down as its the best of both worlds. I was lucky enough to have one of my bridesmaids as my hair stylist so she re-curled my hair ready for the evening.Make up was by the amazing Tasha Parker, her make up was flawless. I wanted good coverage and soft metallic pinks on my eyes and this is what we achieved.”
What was it about your venue that drew you in?
Finding the venue was a bumpy road for Elodie and Joe however the destination was perfect. They were able to find the perfect place for them. “We got married at Christchurch Harbour Hotel. Sadly due to the covid pandemic our wedding was postponed twice. We were due to get married in 2020 and 2021 at a different venue. Unfortunately, they decided to no longer continue with weddings which led us to pick another venue. I just knew when we saw Christchurch Harbour that it was the one for us. We always imagined our day near the water and the rooms were modern and to our taste.”
What advice would you give future brides when looking for their dress?
“Be open minded and try on every style of dress as you may be surprised. Wedding dresses are like no other and make you feel so beautiful. Go with a dress that suits you and your personality.”
Did you have a favourite element of your dress?
Did you have a favourite element of your dress?”I loved the sweetheart embellishment and the huge train with lace running through it.”
What was your routine / plan the night before?
“We checked into the hotel and had a lovely meal with my parents and my Maid of Honour. It was so lovely to have that time together before the big day.”
What was your highlight of the special day?
“All of it! I don’t have a favourite part. It was so lovely to be able to finally have our special day and for all our family and friends to be gathered together. Becoming husband and wife was just the best!”
Looking back, would you do anything differently?
“I don’t think so, I think its easy to worry about all the small things. You can plan every finer detail but on the day you cannot be in control of everything and just have to let it be.”
How did it feel looking back at your wedding phots / videos?
“Amazing! We received our video first and just loved re-living the day. Everyone was so happy! I’m sure i’ve watched it about 50 times!! So glad we chose to get a videographer.Photos are just so wonderful by the amazing Jack Aldridge! Some really special moments were captured. They really tell a story of the day and I can’t wait to put them in an album!”
What was your first dance song?
“Nsync – This I promise you. The words fit how we felt.”
Some very wise words from Elodie here which we would recommend taking on board. A big part for future brides to remember is that elements of the day won’t always go as planned but that doesn’t mean it won’t be perfect and beautiful. Take deep breaths and enjoy every second of it. Don’t waste time worrying about things that are out of your control. Your day will be fabulous!