Doctor, doctor

24 Mar 2014

Doctor, doctor

Simon Fleming tells the story of his wedding to fellow doctor Ruth Bird, which included some medical school fun and games

Image gallery

Simon Fleming and Ruth Bird

Where: Ceremony and reception at Kensignton Roof Gardens

Photography: Mark Alesky

We came across the venue before a year long trip in Australia. It was just what we wanted in a venue – secluded, different, London-based and with the promise of a wedding planner, which was useful because as doctors our free time is limited.

Ruth was sure she’d hate dress shopping, but surprised everyone by loving everything she was shown. Her bridesmaid, Kim Bladon, is a West End costumier and took her dressing duties so seriously that she was even found steaming the dress on the day.

Walking down the aisle, all Ruth was aware of was that everyone we loved was there. The reception was just how we hoped it would be. Because of the fantastic weather and venue our photographer was able to get amazing images of everyone outside. This, of course, included the flamingos, which made Ruth’s day – they were the thing she fell in love with about the venue. We had a wet weather plan but instead we were baking!

It was a delight to see the venue staff (and some family friends), aghast and confused as some old medical school traditions came to light during the meal, like toasting different tables (where each toast necessitates finishing your wine) and the ‘hands-free dessert’, an art form, especially if wearing white. Our friend Matthew Reuther, who we are proud to say is one of the best chefs in London was a great help to us. He has worked with some of the biggest names in food and in some of the best kitchens and he went out of his way to make us the perfect chocolate orange wedding cake.

The theme for the table names was famous doctors, with the head table being Doctor Who. We even had a cut-out of Matt Smith present for the speeches.

Our first dance was My Beloved Monster and Me by Eels. My nickname at medical school was monster... so it seemed strangely appropriate.

WHO DID WHAT

Photography: Mark Alesky, Modern Wedding Image Maker, London, 07792 193562, www.markalesky.co.uk

Venue: Roof Gardens, Kensington, 020 7368 3993, www.roofgardens.virgin.com

Dress: Mirror Mirror Angel, London, 020 7713 9022, www.mirrormirror.uk.com

Bridesmaids’ Dresses: BHS bridal, www.bhs.co.uk

Make-up: Viv Shepard, 07796 172021, www.facebook.com/viviennemakeup

Hair: Carley Saunders, Extend My Beauty, Essex, 07875 080649, www.extendmybeauty.co.uk

Groom’s outfit: Moss Bros, www.moss.co.uk

Flowers: Jens Jakobsen, 07814 040205, www.jensjakobsen.co.uk

Cake: Matthew Reuther (friend)