A Magical Stevie Nicks-Inspired Midnight Wedding

A Pre-Wedding Warm-Up

Before the main event, Gemma and Al tied the knot a week earlier in an intimate ceremony with close family and friends. Picture this: a cozy gathering, heartfelt vows, and a post-ceremony trip to the pub for food and drinks. Low-key, relaxed, and full of love—just how they wanted it.

The Ceremony: Boho Dreams Come True

Fast forward to the big day, which kicked off with an outdoor ceremony in the venue’s gardens. They created the most stunning moon backdrop decked out in boho florals (yes, they made it themselves!). Al was looking effortlessly cool in a black suit paired with a leopard print shirt. Guests got comfy on blankets and benches scattered across the grass, soaking in the chill vibe.

And then came the grand entrance. A string quartet set the scene as the bridesmaids, rocking dark blue sequin dresses, made their way down. But the showstopper? Gemma, glowing in a starry, celestial wedding dress that had everyone gasping. Seriously, it was a moment.

The ceremony itself was led by a close friend, making it extra personal, and the couple toasted their new chapter with celebratory shots right after. Yes, you read that right—shots!

 With the ceremony wrapped up, it was time for a drinks reception under twinkling stars and disco moons in the gardens. Laughter, music, and a whole lot of mingling set the tone. Everyone was feeling the laid-back, joyful energy, sipping cocktails and dancing under the open sky.

A Whimsical Dinner Setting

When it was time for dinner, guests stepped into a dreamy reception space that was all about the details. That gorgeous moon backdrop from the ceremony was repurposed to display the table plan (genius, right?). Disco balls, hanging stars, and fairy lights transformed the room into a whimsical wonderland.

The wooden tables were styled with dark blue accents, glowing candles, and—of course—leopard print candles. Behind Gemma and Al, there was a fairy-lit fabric backdrop, painted plinths (yup, more leopard print!), and dried florals that made them feel like total rockstars. Oh, and let’s not forget the epic leopard banners they made themselves.

Dinner was all about keeping things relaxed with grazing platters for everyone to dig into, followed by a dessert table guests could raid at their own pace. It was chilled, fun, and full of great conversation.

Party Central

After dinner and speeches, the room transformed into the ultimate dance floor. Tables and chairs were cleared, and Al took center stage with his bandmates to perform a few songs. Talk about talent! The night continued with a DJ spinning tracks, confetti flying during the first dance, and the magical glow of fairy lights and disco balls taking over as the evening got darker.

It was a night filled with love, music, and epic vibes—just like Gemma and Al wanted. And trust us, the video of the day is an absolute must-watch.

Behind the Scenes: Helping Gemma & Al’s Wedding Dreams Come to Life

When Gemma and Al reached out to use my setup package (now called One Way or Another), I was over the moon! They’d already poured so much love into their DIY projects and just needed someone to bring all the magic together on the big day. Plus, they made the most of my stock—gold cutlery, plinths, candlesticks, and a whole lot of disco balls. (Seriously, who doesn’t love a disco ball?)

They also DIYed their flower arrangements, which was such a sweet way to involve their friends and family. Oh, and those napkins? Absolute showstoppers—handmade and tied with leopard-print ribbon for that perfect finishing touch. After all the hard work they’d put in, it made total sense they wanted to sit back and relax as the big day got closer.

That’s where I came in. Together, we went over everything they’d need, worked out all the wedding day logistics, and made a plan to reuse decor pieces throughout the event. Once the wedding day arrived, they dropped off their items and—boom!—my turn to shine.

I set up the ceremony, styled the reception space to perfection, and stayed on-site all day to move decor around and make sure every detail was on point. It was all about creating that wow factor without them having to lift a finger.

And after the party? I was there the next morning to clear everything down, organize decor for supplier pick-ups, and make sure the couple’s items were ready for collection. It was the perfect way to wrap up such a stunning day, and I’m so glad I got to help bring their vision to life!

CHECK OUT THIS INSTAGRAM REEL FOR BTS OF THE WEDDING

Gemma and Al’s wedding was one for the books. It wasn’t just about the stunning venue or the gorgeous decor (though both were incredible). It was about two people madly in love, celebrating their story in a way that was true to who they are. The day was filled with laughter, happy tears, and some serious dance moves.

To Gemma and Al: thank you for letting me be a part of your beautiful day. Your love and creativity are so inspiring, and I’ll never forget the magic we created together.

If you’re planning your dream wedding and need a hand bringing it all to life, let’s chat! Whether you’ve DIY-ed every detail or just need someone to make the day run smoothly, I’d love to help make your vision a reality.

Here’s to love, music, and unforgettable moments. Cheers!

Photographer @gem_hicks_photography
Stylist – @randrweddingsandevents
On the day coordination – @itotallydo
Venue – @americanmuseumandgardens
Hair – @stefanodoeshair
Make up – @makeup_bybelle
Dress – @eandwcouture / @rebelrockbridalwear_
Veil – @w_collective
Flowers – @thehappyblossoms / @hayleyworkman
Rings/banners – @gemmaatwelljewellery
Stationery – @mamaincstudio
Furniture hire – @bathvintagehire
Bar – @ponyandtap
Grazing tables – @wild.fig.bath
Cake – @sltbath
Photography – @gem_hicks_photography
Videography – @electricreelfilms
Quartet – @4tissimo_string_quartet
Band – @dontdotuesdays
DJ – @thebestmendjs