Marian and Rob were my first wedding of #lovetour22 – and what a start! Riding the coat tails of Storm Eunice and Franklin – Marian became Mrs Wild, in a wildly appropriate manner!
Marian knew, whatever the weather, she would be arriving by boat to meet Rob and us all at the Boat Shed – a place they both pass daily whilst walking their dog (the magnificent Bessie) and so, no strangers to the weather, it was a case of we will find a way, no matter what.
The Boat Shed, by some miracle was nestled out of the strong gusts that blew us all along the cliff path and as you descended the festoon lit steps, you knew instinctually magic was going to happen down by the boat shed. And so it did.
24 special guests gathered on the quayside (red carpet laid out, wedding shoes ready to be swapped from wedding wellies) and the scent from the mulled wine wafted through the rafters. Marian’s son and his husband played Sailing By on the flute and keyboards as we all stood to welcome Marian’s approach.
The ceremony itself was a joy. So many incredible memories to celebrate and share, each guest was woven into the ceremony (the privilge of an intimate gathering), Marian’s daughter in Australia also made a surprise guest apperence (keeping that a secret was a joy!!) and the weather softened its heart – with rays of sunshine beaming down on Marian and Rob at poignant moments, and coming fully out as they kissed at the end!!!
As Marian and Rob set off back down the river to meet all their other guests at the pub in their village, I was reminded that embracing the things that mean the most to you in life, and then allowing yourselves to truly revel in them is about as good as it gets.
Oh what a sterling, sterling start!
