Southwood Hall

03/11/2024

In a tale as old as time we hosted Rosie and Scott’s real-life fairytale wedding celebrating their love yesterday. Our Beauty and her beast (sorry Scott 😘) make the perfect family with little Alfie. The enchanted Rosie has transformed her Groom into her perfect Prince Charming straight from the storybook.

From a first date in Spoons where it was love at first bite their love has grown and in true fairytale style Rosie looked at him through her big blue eyes and uttered the five most important words in Scott’s life winning his heart forever, “you drink and I drive”.

We have loved being privileged to join them on their wedding planning journey and the laughter shared during our planning meetings has been infectious. Just how far would our funny and daring bride go bringing her wedding vision to life. How many goth touches would she succumb to? What colour would the all important gown be? Her modern and sophisticated scheme hit the perfect blend as the rustic beauty of the barn was enhanced with natural touches, elegant white draping and subtle black touches throughout. The result was simply stunning.

Rosie was a true belle in her perfect flowing gown, its Bardot neckline showing off her dark curls cascading over her shoulders. Every part the princess her jewelled necklace complimented the sweetheart neckline and completed her flawless look.

With the romantic light just starting to fall it was time for their ceremony to commence and in a heart stopping moment our bride, not wanting to be a second late marrying her man, made her own way over to the barn on the arm of her very proud father to join her bridesmaids and super dapper Alfie waiting outside.

Lucinder was at her harp ready to signal the start to join Mr & Mrs Hay in matrimony. Classical gave way to the most gorgeous iconic Beauty and the Beast theme song. How does a moment last forever? Somehow, our time and place stood still. Rosie took her time (although she might not realise as their ceremony was completed in a flash) and on entering the barn patiently waited for her dress to be perfectly set before slowly making her way to Scott’s side. Maybe some moments weren’t so perfect but with the cows grazing in the meadow behind the giant arched window, it looked pretty perfect to everyone there.

The first time our gorgeous couple have ever been quiet descended as nerves got the better of them both. With glistening eyes Scott led the way sharing his vows and contracting to be together. Registrar Mark shared The Apache Wedding Blessing but there was never any fear of rain, Rosie’s sausage burial securing the perfect day. Alfie was called upon to present mum and dad their wedding rings making their gorgeous family ceremony complete.

Heading onto the terrace under a shower of confetti bridesmaid Sophie offered to add petals galore for that final picture perfect moment and what a scene she created 😉. A tin can alley complete with bean bags for hitting off empty cans of pre-mixed cocktails and beers that had been enjoyed kept guests entertained while pictures were captured.

As the light began to fade the barbecue was lit and with the deepest pride and greatest pleasure we welcomed them to relax, pull up a chair as the dining room proudly presented their dinner. Devouring a generous barbecue feast our guests put our service to the test.

Magical Sean Goodman entertained guests as they dined. Others tricked us with their own magic box full of surprises but as always Sean was much more of a treat!

Speeches swiftly followed and it was Kevin that led the way on behalf of both himself, Fiona, Angie and Alfie he welcomed everyone to their children’s wedding. After their wedding day the next stage of Rosie’s life begins, Dad was both proud and sad to say his wonderful daughter will no longer be his responsibility having entrusted her to Scott. A toast to Mr & Mrs Hay was proposed with everyone joining in.

Scott rose to his feet as the clapping began encouraged on by our groom. The little star of the show Alfie peeked from behind the beautiful drapes to his own round of applause. Gifts were presented with flowers for their mums and personalised Jack Daniel’s reserve for best man Aaron and his new father-in-law, Kevin also received a lovingly engraved cigar case ready to be put to great use later in the evening.

When Scott asked Kevin for Rosie’s hand in marriage his father-in-law to be suggested he better ask Fiona as she is the boss. In honour of that theme and to ensure they started off equal Scott was donning his kilt to make sure neither were wearing the trousers - but we know who was in charge of them 😉

Of course he saved his biggest thanks for the gorgeous Rosie “thanks for making sure I am the happiest & poorest man in the room” He proudly shared loving her more than the bottom of all the JD bottles he has ever seen and judging from her gorgeous table decor we know that’s quite a few!

Best Man Aaron was proud of his best friend as Scott has blagged himself the deal of the century in securing Rosie as his wife. Scott wanted the smartest, best looking, most charismatic man to be his best man but as they weren’t available Aaron had stepped up. The two go back over 20 years so a long time to wrap up all of the dodgy memories and questionable decisions they have made together - Vision Express!🙄 Drinking locations may have changed and the quality of the drinks definitely improved since those early days in the shed. Now a brilliant dad to Alfie - who gave Aaron the cutest “whoop whoop” in agreement - a toast to love and laughter for Mr & Mrs Hay was given.

Scott did ci**rs just like Pheobe took charge of cups and ice for Rachel’s birthday. Will Rosie rue the day she put Scott in charge of a cigar bar? We don’t think so - his epic collection was worthy of its own styling and he had every element carefully curated. Maybe just one or two too many, a thing Scott excels at!

The terrace came to life with a jacket potato bar, hot fresh donuts, candy floss and popcorn carts gathering around the photobooth offering everyone plenty of treats. Sparklers were shared and more memories made before everyone gathered inside.

Gaston may have never missed a shot but for Rosie and Scott’s wedding the shots were on them. Our stunning oak wedding cake topped tower was filled with Passoa, tequila, sambucca and cherry sourz, a drink for everyone to get their party started as we headed to the dance floor. The enchanted Rosie took to the floor of our grand barn room and was twirled into Scott’s arms.

Rosie’s final request was complete as our House DJ played “Be our guest” for her to dance her heart out at the end of the night.

If we had a magic mirror to look to the future we know that the Hay family will be loved, their friends and family giving them to warmest of November days. Congratulations to you both, may your love be as timeless as a fairytale as you enjoy a lifetime of happily ever after.

29/10/2024

Who is ready for the Southwood Showcase on November 20th? Can’t wait to see you there x

29/10/2024

Who’s ready for the Southwood Showcase on November 20th? See you then x

22/10/2024

✨SOUTHWOOD SHOWCASE COMING SOON! ✨

We are so excited to be back with our one of a kind showcase evening on Wednesday 20th November. For our Southwood couples, your VIP invite is already in your inbox 💌if you haven’t yet RSVP’d then what are you waiting for!?

See the Barn styled to perfection, enjoy delicious tasters & chat with Southwood’s expert wedding planning team. If that wasn’t enough then we’ll also have some amazing wedding professionals on hand and ready to help you create your perfect day…

Still looking for your dream venue? We’d love to see you too! Comment below and be the first to know when our limited tickets are released👇🏻😘

17/10/2024

💛 Southwood Hall was delighted to host the lovely ladies of the Reedham Belles as they celebrated an incredible 50 years of friendship, community, and service with the The WI (National Federation of Women's Institutes).

Guests arrived in style, greeted with a fresh glass of fizz and adorned in sophisticated outfits featuring glamorous touches of gold and shimmering sequins in honor of their golden anniversary. Some even donned chic, handmade gowns that added a personal flair to the occasion.

The Barn provided a warm and inviting atmosphere where the ladies caught up with old friends, all while the beautiful music of talented Marion filled the air. Far from Jam and Jerusalem, colourful memory boards on display highlighted their many local activities, charity fundraising efforts and even some cheeky moments, including a rather daring photograph of a sc****ly clad gentleman!

The entire chapter had pitched in to create the perfect event, with handmade golden toned centrepieces and beautiful keepsake coasters. KWF were excited to support them by supplying stunning white draping to frame the dining area and twinkly fairy lights. The Southwood team pulled out all the stops to complete the look with a personalised mirror to greet guests and perfectly laid tables.

Guests took their seats for a sophisticated afternoon tea, introduced by Chairwoman Naomi. The warm welcome signalled time for pots of hot, fresh tea to be served to each table. Pretty cake stands followed, stacked with delicately sliced finger sandwiches; a variety of tasty flavours such as roast turkey and cranberry jam and home baked gammon with mustard mayonnaise.

The top of the cake stands were a real showstopper with a vibrant selection of sweet treats. Slices of red velvet and lemon drizzle cakes stood amongst petite Victoria sponges, macarons and chocolate choux buns. Fresh strawberries were nestled amongst them and of course there were freshly baked scones. Southwood Hall were thrilled to provide such a wonderful afternoon tea for these ladies who in exchange donated over £300 raised for the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

With the spoils enjoyed it was time for a fun quiz, all of the members passing with flying colours! One final pot of tea rounded off a truly memorable celebration. It was an absolute pleasure to be part of such a heartwarming milestone for the Reedham Belles. Here's to many more years of friendship, laughter, and making cherished memories! ✨

13/10/2024

The season of mists and mellow fruitfulness is finally upon us and was fully embraced at Mr & Mrs Benn’s gorgeous Southwood Hall wedding yesterday. With autumnal tones throughout their decor our thatched barn provided the perfect backdrop for such a warm celebration. Pumpkins were surrounded with gourds and pine cones, gorgeously blended with pampas’s grass, burnt orange roses and golden foliage by our talented bride.

Bridesmaids wore autumnal rust toned floor sweeping gowns while the gents were sporting Harris tweed suits. The countryside vision was completed with twinkling lights and hessian touches from KWF. As the sun warmed the day amid bright blue skies it was finally time for Emily and Dave to wed.

🎶 If I was a flower growing wild and free
All I’d want is you to be my sweet honey bee.
And if I was a tree growing tall and green
All I’d want is you to shade me and be my leaves.

All I want is you, will you be my bride
Take me by the hand and stay by my side.
All I want is you, will you marry me?
Hold me in your arms and sway me like the sea… 🎶

That’s exactly what our ecstatic Groom Dave did, dramatically dipping his new wife toward the floor and planting a ginormous kiss on her smiling face, a true celebration of their tying of the knot. A wonderful end to a sweet, heartfelt ceremony conducted by Registrar Kaeran.

Just half an hour earlier Emily had made her entrance, her last walk with Stepdad Tim before she became a married woman. He was excited to es**rt her on such a special day, attentive as she made the final adjustments to her dress before making her way down the aisle. Dave was waiting with anticipation, finally that tap on the shoulder from his Best Man signalling the moment for him to turn around. Locking eyes with his Bride the tears began to build, an emotional moment set to the most beautiful music.

Emily almost floated down the aisle, radiant in her stunning gown. A fitted bodice with lace detail and a dramatic illusion back gave way to a mermaid skirt with layers upon layers of tulle. Soft straps draped from her shoulders, a perfect Cinderella look. Her matching veil trailed along the ground, mounds of beautiful blonde curls hidden beneath. Her glamorous make up and gorgeous skyscraper heels completed her Bridal look.

With her hand placed safely in Dave’s, Tim had done his duty and took his seat by her beaming mum who was ready with tissues in hand. Confident Dave was excited to pronounce his vows first, a tough act to follow! A few little nervous giggles weren’t enough to throw Emily off her stride, not a moment of hesitation for her to say ‘I do’.

Readings echoed their hopes and dreams as our first glimpse into the future was shared. “In my future I see you and me, And a house and garden filled with trees. I see dinner parties surrounded by friends, And a vegetable patch we love to tend. I see cosy nights in front of the fire, And a four-poster bed for when we tire. I see our kitchen which will be the heart of the home, And a Victorian bath brimming with foam. I see muddy wellies by the front door, And the kids eating cookies and asking for more. I see nights in the garden camping under the stars, And shelves full of mismatching local jam jars. I see family picnics outside with the dog, And a little blue shed containing the logs. I see us sat by the window watching the snow,
And reading the papers and learning to grow.”

Hugo, the star of the show, was eagerly waiting in the wings for his big moment. With rings securely attached to his bow tie collar he bounded over to his paw-rents, full of beans and ready to do his very important job. With a little help from the Best Men the rings were exchanged and our Bride and Groom were officially declared the new Mr and Mrs Benn!

Their picture perfect aisle exit was repeated as they thrilled guests with a second opportunity to swoon under showers of confetti. Posing for photographs under perfect skies before glasses of fizz were handed around and rustic wooden canape ladders were filled with warming snacks.

Hugo was treated to a couple of the mini sausages - reward for his perfect posing in the photos while petite jacket potatoes alongside goats cheese and red onion galette were welcome treats for their guests before finding their seats inside ready to offer a rousing welcome for the new Mr and Mrs Benn to huge applause as “Heather on the Hill” told the perfect story of their love that their Scottish family could appreciate.

Our groom was soon ready to settle to a hearty wedding breakfast devouring his roast chicken. Sticky toffee pudding with lashings of salted caramel sauce and delicious apple and blackberry crumble were the perfect seasonal treats enjoyed alongside plenty of wine & a generous helping of fizz before we were ready for the speeches and to hear evidence from both sides of an alleged shooting!

Tim started proceedings sharing how proud he was to have the honour of giving the Father of The Bride speech as Emily’s Dad from age 9. We soon heard how guiding her through those years was always a challenge. As a teenager she developed the skill of vomiting in any direction after a night out and poor Tim learnt to be quick with a bucket to avoid spending time cleaning the floor! Despite many mishaps he clearly deeply loves his step-daughter and is proud that Emily knows what she wants in life and will make sure she attains it. The only downside Tim can find to Dave is his large appetite and the grocery cost in feeding him as he is sure to make a GB eating team if ever there is one. We hope the wedding breakfast sufficed!

A warm and meaningful handshake was shared as Tim found his seat and Dave took over to much applause, stamping and clapping. The Hecklers were ready and in full voice. “Today I start my new life sentence as a husband”. The wedding had been two years in the planning but Dave admitted Emily had done everything and he had already learned to say “yes dear”.

Dave shared what a top man Tim is with old school morals and values so rare today admiring his graft and the amazing job he did in helping to raise Emily. The first time they met Dave was keen to shake Tim’s hand but a “nah your alright” kept him on his toes seeking approval. That handshake may have taken two years to materialise but it was well worth waiting for. Recalling the day he asked for Tim’s blessing the man of many words replied “course ya can mate” and the rest is history.

Brownie points in the bag he complimented his new mother-in-law and thanked her for all she does. In lockdown Dave accepted their generosity and kindness staying with them for four months in lockdown. Norfolk dialect learned (for cupboard substitute cuppert) he loves their ways and their beautiful daughter he is now proud to call his wife!

“The General” aka Dave’s mum Flo clearly means so much to the whole family as loud applause erupted at her very mention. How did she raise such a well behaved teenager? Driving him round the UK to kickboxing competitions shouting him on in her thick Scottish accent “ayeee go on Daveee” - enough to make any opponent scared. Being both mum and dad taking everything, including his military career in her stride she has indeed done a fantastic job raising such a good handsome young man - well done Flo 🥰.

Welcoming the most prolific liars in the room - Hamer (Dogger) & Johnny (Nudger) Dave was keen to share his side of their stories first! The first time Dave & Jonny met aged 10 they got in a fight & Dave battered him. On their second encounter there was another fight & Dave battered him again! The first time Dave met 13 year old Hamer Dave ALLEGEDY shot him from a bedroom window with a dart from his BB Gun (or was it an air rifle?) as he was delivering his mums newspaper. These boys have bonded in their own weird & wonderful ways over an initial “genuine mistake”, binning the remaining papers on his round and heading to McDonalds! It’s weird how friendships form but these lads have been through a lot together and Dave thinks of them as uglier brothers 😂 .

Dave finally turned his attention to the most important person in the room - the chef! More seriously to the most important person in the room and in his life, his wonderful wife Emily. His Tinderella was a certain swipe right although it took 4 months to agree the first date. Emily’s travelling & Dave’s career kept them apart but the spark always remained. His soulmate that blew him away. Her kindness, thoughtfulness and support set him free. “I can’t wait to grow old with you sitting on a rocking chair & watching the world go by - you are my darling and my one, I love you”.

The muppets aka the best men were ready to take to the mic. Hamer took exception to the “allegedly” and submitted evidence that his best mate had delivered a lead pellet to the leg! Little did the boys know how many A&E trips and scrapes they would share. Hilarious, but unrepeatable stories, were recounted with roaring laughs and tears shed. It sounds like dream teenage years where Dave learnt the importance of fidelity and was never unfaithful, only eating Mackers whenever their military careers brought them safely home together.

Johnny began with plenty of praise and compliments but all aimed at Dave - apparently the last time Dave looked this smart he was in court. He got away with it last time but this one could be a life sentence 😂. Sick of taking hidings he had to become Dave’s best mate. They might not have set a house on fire but enlightening and igniting stories were shared with kick boxing flexibility coming in so handy to develop new skills 😉 Apparently Dave has a thing for being naked - for no apparent reason he has naked paint-balled, naked mountain biked and nakedly played with his wooden spoons on a Saturday night 😉

With no one prepared to take the mic to sing (until much later in the evening 😉) the speeches were over and guests headed to the bar to add to their Jagerbomb challenge attempt. Looking to their future and embracing the season unique touches continued as a Tarot card reader arrived ready to look further into Mr & Mrs Benn’s future. Guests waited patiently for their turn with everyone intreagued to take a seat at her table. Little could we have predicted back in 2016 that the guy in a jeep at the Flegg Prom would one day be back with the girl of his dreams.

October James Photography encouraged our bridal party outside to enjoy magical moments showing off the sparks these two share as flanked by the nearest and dearest with sparklers lit from the pizza oven magical moments were shared. Soon their towering cake was cut and shared before they took to the dance floor showing off their moves before encouraging all to join in. The band began with a dance for Emily and Tim to share as the energy was raised and guests danced the night away.

We believe that your ceremony words have indeed predicted the most wonderful future for you both, we are sure the premonition will be true. “I see you as my friend and also my lover, Your confidant and your children’s mother. I see a wonderful future for you and I, And it’s cloaked in love until we die”. Congratulations guys, always keep that spark alive and take the very best care of one another xx

01/10/2024

If any of our lovely couples would like to share their wedding story then be quick to contact Norfolk and Suffolk Bride 🥰

💕Last Call for all 2024 Norfolk and Suffolk Brides and Grooms.💕

We are looking for Brides and Grooms who would like their wedding story featured in our annual Norfolk and Suffolk Bride magazine this year.

If that's you, or you know someone who would, please get in touch at [email protected] by 6th October.

💕We would love to hear your story.💞

28/09/2024

We’ve heard people say that too much of anything is not good for you, but we don't know about that. Kit and Dan just can’t get enough of their love babe, and neither can we! 🎶

Their unforgettable day started with a quirky and beautiful ceremony at the stunning Flint Rooms in Norwich. Afterward, an intimate dinner at the mouthwatering Haggle on St. Benedict’s brought everyone together. The room was filled with laughter, wine and more tapas than you could imagine! With their vows exchanged and their stomachs happily full, we couldn’t wait to officially welcome the new Mr and Mrs Otter and their closest family and friends, for an evening reception filled with joy and celebration.

Guests were greeted with glasses of refreshing Buck’s Fizz as they stepped off the coach and into the warm, inviting Coronation Barn. Inside, they escaped the autumn chill and admired the breathtaking surroundings, KWF’s twinkling fairy lights suspended overhead and candlelight flickering softly in every window. The solid oak tables from Southwood added the perfect rustic touch to the scene. Each table was adorned with handmade vases, lovingly crafted by Dan’s sister-in-law Rosie, filled with vibrant lavender grown by his mum, Helen.

Uniquely shaped and glazed in earthy tones each vase had been carefully engraved with a variety of blooms, each one significant to our happy couple. Born and bred in rural Norfolk the traditional Norfolk reed brought on a fond memory for our groom who had spent many a day sailing the Broads. The dog rose held an equally sweet memory for Bride Kit, a nod to her beloved and much missed dog Marshall and the many adventures they shared hiking. The sentiment of the flowers spanned the globe with reminders of special times in both Scotland and Cyprus. Possibly the most memorable for our newlyweds, the Iris of Croatia, home place of the all important proposal that led them to our doors in the first place.

The new Mr and Mrs Otter were excited to pose for photos with their guests, all carefully captured by the talented Craig Greenwood. Nicholas and Michael (almost) stole the show, looking adorable in their matching shirts but it was stunning Kit that turned heads as she mingled with guests, a dazzling Bride in her off the shoulder gown that fitted at the waist and then flowed effortlessly across the ground. The soft pink roses made this a beautiful, one of a kind dress for a beautiful, one of a kind girl 💕

Before long we were joined by even more friends and family and the moment we were all waiting for with anticipation, the speeches. Gathered comfortably in the Barn Dan was proud to welcome guests that had travelled from near and far to be with them. Latecomers were greeted by an impromptu rousing round of ‘Happy Birthday’ to welcome them. Dan seemed excited and perhaps also nervous (rightly so!) to introduce his brother and best man Jonny to the floor.

The bar had been set high for Jonny and he did not disappoint! Being a talented stand up comic guests were treated to a full thirty minutes of anecdotes of a life spent with his older Brother Dan. We could only imagine the antics that took place in the Otter household! From squabbles over toys to Dan’s later obsession with his beloved Subaru, Jonny painted a lively picture of his brother’s journey from childhood mischief to the man he is today. You could tell that there was so much love between these brothers, even if Jonny did joke about him resembling Beaker from The Muppets). Despite this, his embarrassing subscription to Top Gear magazine and his questionable taste in artwork Dan still landed himself a gorgeous new wife.

Being an equal opportunities best man speech Jonny left no stone unturned when it came to his new sister in law either. Dan had taken a gamble on their very first date, taking Kit to meet Jonny at his comedy show. Luckily for Dan she didn’t fall his younger siblings charismatic charms and the loved up pair have been tied at the hip ever since. Jonny couldn’t have enough nice things to say about Kit, her genuine, sincere and kind nature…. Even if she does wake everyone up by throwing around an encyclopaedia every now and again 😉

With the tea well and truly spilled and raucous applause it was soon time to cut the cake. And what a cake it was! Family friend Ruth had travelled all the way from Kent to deliver a stunning three tier cake embellished with touches of a mystical fairytale forest all very carefully crafted in sugar. Sat proudly amongst the woodland scene was Marshall, his cheeky little face a reminder that he was with us in spirit. Large wedges of juicy carrot cake, fruit cake and Victoria sponge were ready for guests to enjoy.

For those with a more savoury palette Chef had been busy warming up the pizza oven. Hot and fresh pizzas topped with ham, chicken, pepperoni and plenty of veggies were accompanied by a beautiful, rustic salad cart. Fresh green salad sat amongst three bean and wild rice, coleslaw, kimchi and caprese salad. Nachos, plenty of breadsticks, salsa, dressings and a whole bottle of ketchup for Kit completed the feast.

As night fell the dance floor came alive with the talented DJ Ian of I-Disco hitting the decks. With her dress expertly bustled by friend Millie, Kit was ready to enjoy her first dance with her husband Dan. Old school favourite ‘the hustle’ kicked off the party atmosphere, a funky first dance and a happy reminder of times spent dancing round their flat all those years ago. Once the dance floor began popping it was unstoppable, guests dancing and mingling all night long.

Barry White’s classic ‘just can’t get enough of your love’ played across the Barn, the perfect ending to the celebration and a true full circle moment for Kit who had made her way down the aisle to that very song earlier in the day. The celebration set the tone for a weekend of festivities for the new Mr and Mrs Otter, with a romantic stay in the Cartshed Lodge and drinks with their friends at the very place their love story started, the Playhouse in Norwich. It’s just the beginning of their adventure with an exciting Nordic honeymoon to look forward to soon.

Kit and Dan, we absolutely loved being part of your special day and we wish you a lifetime of love and laughter together 💕 ###

25/09/2024

Smashed it - obviously 😘

22/09/2024

Do you remember the 21st night of September? 🎶 It was a night to remember, and for our special couple, Kayleigh and Dan, it was a night they will cherish for the rest of their lives—the night they became Mr. and Mrs. Norgate. Nestled comfortably in the serene surroundings of the Cartshed Lodge, with meat feast pizzas and slices of their wedding cake in hand, they reminisced about the festivities that made their day truly unforgettable.

The day had begun in the very same lodge, where Kayleigh, calm as ever, prepared for the biggest day of her life. Josie and Alice led the glam squad, working their magic before Kayleigh slipped into her breathtaking bridal gown. The room buzzed with excitement as she took her final steps toward becoming a bride.

Meanwhile, over in Butlers, Dan and his mates were having a much more laid-back start to the day, playing Xbox in their pants, enjoying every moment of a relaxed morning. Once suited and booted they made their way to Coronation Barn, adjusting their boutonnières and greeting arriving guests with a mix of anticipation and joy.

The guests took full advantage of the barn, sipping on cocktails from our delicious menu while mingling on the front steps, unaware of the surprise awaiting them. When it was time for the ceremony, they were led through the grounds to a charming rustic gate. As it swung open, it revealed a hidden gem: a stunning, intimate walled garden, the perfect setting for a truly magical ceremony. The quaint English garden, with its neatly trimmed hedges and a rustic iron pergola marking the aisle, set the stage. A large antique urn took center stage, providing a picturesque backdrop as Kayleigh and Dan prepared to say "I do." Rows of pristine white chairs arched, awaiting the guests and the start of the proceedings.

Our radiant bride, Kayleigh, patiently waited beneath the shade of a pear tree for her moment. When the first notes of "How Long Will I Love You" played, everyone knew it was time for her grand entrance. Bridesmaids, dressed elegantly in satin gowns of rosy pink, led the way, one by one, down the aisle. But stealing the show was adorable little Rosie, in a matching floral headband and dress, looking every bit the precious flower girl. Carried by Jess, little Rosie made her way toward Dan, who couldn’t hide his emotions as he saw his baby girl coming closer.

Always a mummy’s girl, Rosie eagerly awaited her mother’s arrival, and as Kayleigh walked arm-in-arm with her proud dad, Tony, Rosie couldn’t help but call out for her mum. In a tender moment, Kayleigh scooped her up, and together with Dan, they shared a beautiful family ceremony. Smiles, tears, and hand-holding filled the air, as Kayleigh’s brother, Sam, delivered a heartfelt reading, and their friend Callum proudly presented the rings for the exchange, adding personal touches to an already intimate ceremony.

With the vows exchanged and a celebratory gin and lemonade in hand, Kayleigh and Dan were quite literally "walking on sunshine" as they strolled through the grounds as husband and wife for the first time. Meanwhile, guests made their way to the terrace lawn, lining up to create a perfect confetti tunnel. As the newlyweds passed through, a flurry of dried petals showered them, marking the beginning of a lively celebration.

The terrace cooler overflowed with ice-cold beers, and bottles of fizz were popped. Guests mingled, some posing for photos while others took part in a friendly (and not at all competitive 😉) game of football on the lawn. All the while, the sun blessed the day with unseasonably warm weather, as if nature itself had decided to join in the celebration.

As the couple and their guests enjoyed the outdoor festivities, the barn underwent a breathtaking transformation. The floral arrangements were a perfect blend of September hues—the blushes and pinks of summer melding seamlessly with rich autumnal shades of raspberry and crimson. Show-stopping dahlias competed for attention with double adora hydrangeas, while tall warrior grass stood proudly above elegant, softly glowing candles. Liberty of Niche Floristry crafted enviable centerpieces, allowing Kayleigh’s laid-back vision to come to life in the most beautiful way.

Kayleigh and Dan’s personal touches were everywhere, from twinkling fairy lights to rustic LOVE letters by KWF, all of which added to the magic. The final touches, including Southwood’s wooden cake stand and card box, completed the scene perfectly.

With guests finding their seats, it was time for the moment everyone had been waiting for—our charming best man, Callum, proudly introduced the new Mr. and Mrs. Norgate for the very first time. Raucous applause filled the air as napkins were waved, and Earth, Wind & Fire’s iconic "September" played across the barn.

The couple, with little Rosie in tow, made their way to their wedding cake. This wasn’t just any wedding cake, this was a deliciously creamy M&S victoria sponge wedding cake. Decorated with gorgeous blooms to match their scheme this showstopper cake made a picture perfect moment as they cut their first slice.

In a delightful twist, the Southwood team enlisted the guests' help, sending one person from each table off to be part of a surprise. Cheered on by the dining room, they returned wearing chefs' hats and aprons, bearing trays of smoked gammon to carve at their tables. Kayleigh’s brother Sam put his catering training to use with some expert carving, while everyone else enjoyed buttery new potatoes, homemade coleslaw, rocket and feta salad, and freshly baked bread. We’d never let our veggie guests miss out, Chef had prepared them beautiful heritage tomato and pesto tarts.

With dinner devoured and glasses of fizz poured, it was time for the much-anticipated speeches. A time we all looked for, and a time Kayleigh was slightly nervous of! Although it’s a Dad’s perogative to embarrass his children Tony was kind about his kind, intelligent and generous daughter, keeping the embarrassing stories to a minimum. He was the proudest man in the whole world on this special day. He couldn’t be happier than watching the two of them marry. This special pair light up the lives of all that know them. After thirty odd years of marriage himself Tony was well placed to offer some valuable advice… marriage is a partnership, one of you is always right and the one is always you Dan ;)

Dan was grateful for the advice and for all of the love and support received by their guests that had made the effort to be with them on their special day. From the moment Kayleigh popped that wine cork he knew she was the one for him and they’ve built a wonderful life together ever since. The love he has for new wife was clear from the way they held each other during the first dance. With more of their friends and family to join them and the soft glow of the festoons they took to the terrace for their first dance as husband and wife. Bill Downs serenaded them with a live cover of ‘All of me’ by John Legend, the most romantic moment. The magic continued with a gorgeous tunnel of sparklers, glittering all around our happy family.

Guests were treated to freshly cooked pizzas, yummy sweetie table and the party of the century. It was great to see familiar faces Mr & Mrs Read across the dance floor, after marrying at Southwood themselves earlier this summer. With the help of Bill Downs our guests raised the roof all night long! It was certainly a party to bring the house down 😉

Congratulations to Kayleigh, Dan, and little Rosie! May your future together be filled with joy, love, and countless more magical moments. Wishing you a blissful honeymoon and a lifetime of happiness as the Norgate family 💕