Rebecca and James met in 2008 whilst attending a maths workshop at University then, eight years later they booked a weekend away of rest and relaxation. James had prepared a montage of photos including a special picture of each year that they’d spent together. He chose to upgrade their room to a suite in order to choose this special time to propose to Rebecca. Coupled with a custom-made diamond ring, James’ framed picture was a truly romantic gift and of course Rebecca said yes! The couple heard of West Tower through Facebook and Instagram and decided that they had to visit the Lancashire venue. The setting and layout of the house was perfect for how they pictured their summer wedding. Feeling very homely and relaxed, they loved that their guests would be close by wherever they were in the house.
”The venue needed to be exclusive to us so that we could relax with just our friends and family without being interrupted and a country feel with traditional elements too and definitely nothing over the top!” – Rebecca
The Style of the day
Rebecca used Pinterest and West Tower’s inspirational Instagram page for ideas. Their theme had elements of a country garden together with a classic, down to earth feel. The table centrepieces were placed in bark wooden boxes and a rustic twig arch was an excellent photo opportunity for guests.
Keeping the day very personal, they made their own favours – candles for the ladies together with fudge for the men. The 3 tier cake was a definite hit, especially the rocky road layer!
Rebecca felt confident and at ease in her dress for the whole day. A line style with a lace neckline, buttons down the back and a beaded sash she felt really special. A necklace and earrings that James had given her a few years earlier completed her outfit. Navy blue tails with an ivory waistcoat and pale pink tie for James and his groomsmen matched the girls effortlessly.
The Wedding
Rebecca’s dad walked her down the very same aisle in Eccleston that he himself had walked to marry her mum! Following a musical duet on the flute and guitar by two friends, everyone made their way to West Tower.
The couple chose to offer their guests a choice menu which went down extremely well with everyone. The Ham Hock starter and Chocolate Brownie were particular highlights for their guests. The speeches had everyone laughing – with anecdotes from James’ university days and an appearance by Colin the Caterpillar!
Their party doubled in size for evening – yet the Ballroom easily accommodated the increase in guests. James & Rebecca were thrilled with their DJ who was recommended to them by West Tower. He took time to get to know them, telling the story of how they met and their lives together since. Choosing ‘Best Friend’ by Queen as their first dance – they felt the lyrics suited their relationship and it wasn’t too soppy!
Along with a vintage Ice cream van, light bites were served including Fish & Chips, Mini Cheeseburgers and Paninis! Guests staying overnight were treated to a Late Night feast with the bar open until the early hours. This was certainly a welcome treat at the end of the night!
“If we could do it all again we would just press repeat. Our day was fantastic from start to finish and we couldn’t have wished for anything more, the only thing is it all goes far too quickly!” – Rebecca
The Suppliers
Dress: Always and Forever Bridal Boutique
Menswear: Groom – Liverpool
Venue Dressing: Wendy’s Flowers, Impress your Guests
Cake: Jayne Glover
Photographer: Wedding Photography by Joe Bickerton
Entertainment: Steve Mitchell Wedding DJ
