For today’s real wedding, we’re hopping across the pond to England! And you’re in for an absolute treat with this one you guys! A simple color scheme of natural colors paired with one of the most gorgeous wedding venues made for an ideal setting for these Norfolk nuptials. The best part though? The love these two share. We’ll let you find out from the bride below and see for yourself, so start scrolling!
How did you meet?
“Ayrton came from England to Tennessee on a soccer scholarship. Our universities were next to each other and our paths crossed one night at a college party!”
What is your favorite quality in your husband?
“He is the most reliable person I’ve ever met. I know I can always count on him. If he says he will do something, he will do it. He is also the most loving person, always putting my needs first.”
Who said “I love you” first?
“He did! Almost right away!”
When did you know you were falling in love?
“It was one night in December 2014. My roommates and I had thrown a party at our house. Ayrton and all of his other British friends included. At this point, we were still really close friends. At some point during the night, a lost dog was right outside our apartment all alone and it was absolutely freezing outside. I was so upset and concerned, but no one else seemed to care besides Ayrton. We decided we would go walk around with the dog and see if he could lead us to where he lived. I left in such a hurry without a jacket, so obviously he gave me his. We just walked around the neighborhood all night long, talking and playing with this dog. And I just fell in love! There was also a happy ending for the dog, as we found his owners the next day.”
What was the hardest part of wedding planning?
“The hardest part was trying to keep all of my thoughts straight in my head, and just dealing with all of my suppliers. They were all so great, but it was stressful having to book them all, and also having to keep in contact with all of them constantly was a full time job. I forgot a few deadlines, but thankfully they were all so understanding.”
Did you have any specific design inspiration for your big day?
“I wanted the day to focus on really natural colors, like whites, creams, greys, greens and hints of blue. I’m not a super colorful person so I wanted a simple color scheme. All of our flowers were either white or has lots of greenery. We went for a natural or dark stained wood for a lot of our ascents as well.”
Did you do a first look? Would you recommend this?
“I had a first look with my brother, but no, I did not have a first look with Ayrton and I don’t think I would change a thing. To see his raw reaction as I was walking down the aisle was so special and real.”
Was there a part of your wedding that held a personal significance to you or your spouse?
“My father passed away in October 2015, so we wanted to make sure he was highlighted throughout the wedding on remembrance. We saved a seat for him with a picture of us both and a beautiful sign. And we also had a remembrance table for not only my father, but all of our other loved ones who had previously passed away. Since my dad would have been the one to walk me down the aisle, I gave that honor to my brother, which was the best decision ever. He would have made my dad proud.”
Favorite aspect of your wedding?
“My favorite aspect of our wedding was the fact that it was a 3 day wedding in which we had all of our closest friends and family stay the night with us at the venue for the entire weekend. It was so much fun and made it so much more special that we were able to spend that time with everyone.”
Did you have a signature cocktail? What was it?
“Ayrton’s was a dark and stormy, and my cocktail was a mojito.”
What was your first dance song, and why did you choose it?
“‘Dance Me to the End of Love’ by the Civil Wars. The first time we heard it we just knew. It was so fitting, and we went for a folky band so it was perfect for them to sing as well.”
Tell us about your grand exit!
“Well since our venue accommodated 41 people, Ayrton and I and our closest guests were able to stay at the venue, which was so nice not having to arrange a ride and everyone just stayed however late they wanted to!”
What has surprised you most during the first few months of marriage?
“Honestly, nothing. Maybe the fact that I can’t remember my last name? I’m a teacher so it’s really hard to keep straight. But Ayrton and I have lived together for over 3 years now, so it’s not the biggest change for us! But it is SO much fun to keep saying ‘husband.’”
What do you look forward to most as newlyweds?
“We are wanting to start a family as soon as possible. Parenthood is so exciting to us, and we can’t wait for that next new chapter. But for now, we are just enjoying every minute we can spend together.”
Best wishes Olivia & Ayrton from all of us at The Pink Bride
Credits:
Location, Rehearsal Dinner, & Accommodations: Voewood
Photographer: Kerry Diamond Photography
Cake: Victoria Jane Bakes
Catering: Alex Chef
Flowers: La Belle Flowers
Bridal Shop: Morgan Davies London
Videographer: Lukas and Laura Films
Professionals Musicians: The Archives
Rentals & Decor: CMA Hire
Hair & Makeup: GetBeYou
