Stylish Beach Mermaid Wonderland Wedding

It’s that time of year where thoughts turn to the summer holidays and fun plans. So it’s wonderful to be transported right there today.

Victoria and Patrick tied the knot on the 5th June 2015 at Tunnel Beaches in North Devon. It is a really special venue, sat right on the beach with such impressive views that Victoria and Patrick fell for it hook, line and sinker.

They envisioned a mermaid wonderland day with chilled-out vibes. Think boho flower crowns, breezy seaside portraits and sweet decorations. Victoria chose to wear the most gorgeous gown by Claire Pettibone with a long romantic veil. Oh so stylish.

Thanks so much to the brilliant Source Images for sharing their imagery with us.

THE PROPOSAL

Patrick proposed on the finish line of the Triple Ironman run by Enduroman Events. Patrick Completed the epic race May 2014 and Vicky was his support crew for the 3 days of no sleep! We are both Ironman (triathletes) and Vicky was a GB age group triathlete back in 2010.

THE VISION

California / Beach / Mermaid wonderland/ relaxed / chilled out vibes.

THE PLANNING PROCESS

We only went to the venue twice before the big day as they were so good and prompt with emailing us back we didn’t need to go! They took care of everything we needed and had good advice as to the timings on the day. Couldn’t have asked for any better!  This unique and stunning location is an ideal venue for the modern/ stylish couple. It’s no wonder they are the most popular beach side venue in the UK.

We did have to go down to our local County Council to register our intent to be married, – then everything was sent down to the Ilfracombe Council. We popped down to see them and combined that trip with a visit to the florists and the hair dresser.

Everything else,  the small touches, Vicky (a graphic designer by trade) and Patrick made. The black boards, invitations, save the dates, order of events, table decorations. So we saved a lot of money here.

BUDGET

£16,000

THE VENUE

The Tunnels beaches – North Devon, Ilfracombe. Tunnels Beaches on North Devon’s rugged North Coast was a spectacular venue for our wedding and reception. “Unique” is an over-used adjective when it comes to wedding locations, but there is certainly no other way to describe this one!

 We could access our private, secluded garden overlooking the sea and beach via hand carved tunnels through the cliffs and view the breath taking coastal views to Lundy Island.

 We choose to get married within the thatched gazebo overlooking the sea, within our beautiful bespoke wedding facility overlooking the garden, gazebo and sea, or even within the tunnels themselves! 

This historic location is an ideal venue for your special day – fantastic scenery for your photos, private secluded beaches with spectacular romantic sunsets and all arranged by attentive and flexible staff.

We choose from an extensive choice of buffet, barbecue, canapé, and drink packages that provided a relaxing and informal feel.

The first class facilities (including function room/bar with balcony and roof terrace) provided a stunning seashore location for our wedding – whatever the weather!

 

THE READINGS & MUSIC

By my older brother – Noel Pearson. The Day By Anyonita Green, Love Rules the Court by Sir Walter Scott and Just Kids By Patti Smith.

Live music through day by – Roger Styles. Was contemporary and mellow, surf tunes, perfect for the setting.

Evening, Spotify – everyone could choose.

ACCOMMODATION

We choose to find our own accommodation. We stayed in a 10 person house. We had the whole family with us. It was great fun. It made the whole wedding feel like a holiday. We had loads of space and had a welcome drink party the day before.  It was literally 5 minutes walk from the venue and over looked the sea with some amazing panoramic views. Seaholm House.

THE DRESS & ACCESSORIES

Claire Pettibone from Ellie Sanderson boutique, Oxford branch.
Shoes from Rachel Simpson.
Hair by Rebekah Etoe – Amazing lady.

I researched a lot on Pinterest by typing in Beach weddings. However, I kind of knew what I wanted then found Claire Pettibone online and knew she was the designer for me.

Claire Pettibone – “Self described romantic Claire Pettibone creates wedding dresses that combine vintage charm with romance. Her talent for designing sensational and unique bridalwear has made her one of the world’s leading wedding dress designers.”

GROOM’S ATTIRE

3 piece suit – Reiss, London.

Shoes – From the Maastrict – Shoe shop in the Netherlands.

 

BEAUTIFUL BRIDESMAIDS

Both had hair done by Rebekah Etoe – pop up salon. Fay – My older cousin, Dress – Coast.
My younger second cousin, Dress – Monsoon.

 

YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

Source Images (of course!)

THE CAKE

Made of Cheese  (traditional Dutch cheeses). We both love love love cheese! Cornish pasties were handed out around 10pm.

THE DETAILS & DÉCOR

Not on the high street was the first stop for all things bridal. We got cake topper, pom poms, name place cards, gifts for the wedding party, named bags for the wedding party, but was also great for getting ideas, so too was Pinterest. I just made what I like then.

The best people, I have to mention them, were Bramble Rose. They embroidered 4 dressing gowns for me ( and my bridal party) and posted them back as fast I could order them, amazing service if you need something done quickly. Thank you Bramble Rose.

THE FLOWERS

Twigs – I wanted a soft orange and corn flower blue colour them. Orange to represent The Netherlands, where Patrick is from and blue as it’s my favourite colour.

THE HONEYMOON

Part 1 – The Tour De France opening – Utrecht The Netherlands. Part 2 – The Maldives ( March 2015).

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

The sunset over the sea.
Sparklers around the fire pit at night.
Readings / Speeches.

ADVICE FOR OTHER COUPLES

You can never plan too early. Get the venue right and the theme for everything will fall into place. But most of all, enjoy the day and the people who have taken time out to come and spend it with you.

CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE |

Venue | The Tunnel Beaches, Ilfracombe, North Devon

Accommodation | Seaholm House

Dress | Claire Pettibone at Ellie Sanderson

Shoes | Rachel Simpson

Flowers | Twigs flowers

Photographers | Source Images

Hair | Pop Up Salon

Live Music | Roger Styles

Dress cleaners |  Terrington Burchett Ltd – bridal gown specialists

Embroidered Dressing gowns | Bramble Rose

 

Simply divine.

Victoria and Patrick, thanks so much to you both for sharing your glorious wedding story with us xo Lou