Emma and Chris Smith – 27th May 2024

Tell Us How You Met and All About Your Proposal …

We met online – both in our 30’s we both felt like we may have missed the boat. I decided to give online dating one last chance, not having much hope and there he was. It all worked out at the right time!

Being a bit older, we had talked about getting married and talked about Netley Hall being our venue. On the day of the proposal he tried to throw me off course (which worked) by taking me axe throwing. I kept thinking, ‘oh gosh, I hope he doesn’t do it here!’ He then pretended we were going home but drove me to Netley where he’d prepared a box of gifts, which included the box with the ring and he proposed to me in the beautiful gardens! The Netley team had hidden in the bushes and taken lots of pics for us – it was the best!

Let’s Talk About The Dress And Your Journey …

Mel was just amazing from the minute I walked in. I explained what I liked and she got me straight away – I actually ended up choosing the same dress she had at her wedding. It was exactly what I had been looking for. The trying on process was so fun – it was like Mel was another friend there to support me! From choosing the dress, going back to pick it up and re-try it and then collecting it after it being steamed – every single one of the team was so friendly and made the whole experience the exciting and special time it should be!

Princess! I knew I wanted something a bit different and a bit WOW which is exactly what my dress was. I wanted a blush underlay and a bit of sparkle with some lace. Everything this dress was – it was like it had been designed just for me!

How Did You Feel In Your Gown On The Day …

I felt like a princess! It was a dream come true. 

I wore the beautiful Essense D3384 gown.

How Did Your Partner React When They Saw You In Your Dress …

Lots of tears as I walked up the aisle. He said it was perfect and so me!

Where Was Your Venue And What Made You Choose The Venue …

Barnabas Church and Netley Hall

We chose Barnabas as we are members there.
Then we chose Netley for its beautiful setting and stunning hall and wedding suite. It’s so special for us getting engaged and married there – we plan to go back for all our anniversaries!

Are There Any Special Memories You Would Like To Share From Your Special Day …

Chris’ Mum did the address at our service which was really special.
We got married on Chris’ birthday so with the help of the groomsmen, Netley and our photographer, I was able to surprise him with everyone wearing party hats and singing happy birthday at our reception.

Tell Us About Your Wedding Colour And Theme …

We went for an olive green, white and hints of pink theme. It was classic and stunning.
We wanted lots of personal touches and fun elements to our wedding -lots of photos, mini golf, glow sticks and light up flashing headbands to get the party going.
We didn’t have a top table, we had a sweetheart table which we sat at for the speeches but for the actual meal we sat on a different table for each course to mingle with our guests – they loved it!

How Did You Make Your Day Unique To Your Love Story …

We named our tables after places we have been together on dates and put photographs on each table with a little blurb about each one. Of course, Netley featured!

First Dance …

We had ‘This will be (an everlasting love) by Natalie Cole. The line ‘this will be, the one I’ve waited for….’ Reflected our story.

Where Did You Honeymoon …

We did a mini moon up to Yorkshire and the Lake District which was so nice and chilled. We plan on a luxury honeymoon to Greece in August. 

Perfect Planning – Can You Give Future Brides Any Tips For Planning The Big Day …

Suppliers …