Sun, sea and smiles: The wedding of Andy and Emma Gates

The wedding of Andy and Emma Gates at Highcliffe Castle, Dorset followed by reception at Christchurch Harbour Hotel, Dorset

Photography: Emma Hurley Photography

The photos say it all really! We never stopped smiling all day. We wanted our wedding to be by the sea as it’s a special place for us both, our honeymoon was surfing in the Maldives for two weeks, so the venues were perfect. We hired a VW campervan as our transport to and from the castle which set the tone for the whole day.

The day was so relaxed and the weather perfect, just as we’d hoped. The highlights have to include our pictures on the beach and on Christchurch Harbour in the rowing boat but also the speeches. All three speeches were a mix of emotions. My dad’s speech was so heartfelt and special, while Andy’s made me realise just how much I love him and I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so much as with the best man Martin’s speech. Andy was crying with laughter too!

It’s difficult to pick a favourite bit. I can’t choose only one! My selection of ‘best bits’ would be waking up on the day and feeling so excited; walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing Andy smiling; giggling our way through the ceremony; wearing my gorgeous dress all day; having all our closest family and friends there with us and pictures on the beach.

As we went down to the beach we got spontaneous applause from about 30 exchange students and then found a rowing boat at the harbour so went for a paddle while our friends were singing the ‘You’ve Been Framed’ theme tune!

THE DETAILS

Photography: Emma Hurley Photography, 01727 421273, emmahurleyphotography.com

Venue: Christchurch Harbour Hotel and Spa, Mudeford, Dorset, 01202 483434, christchurch-harbour-hotel.co.uk

Dress: By Justin Alexander, justinalaexanderbridal.com

Groom: All Aspects Wedding Services, Bournemouth, 01202 427539, allaspectsweddingservice.co.uk

Stationery: Designed and printed by the bride’s aunt

Catering: Christchurch Harbour Hotel and Spa, Mudeford, Dorset, 01202 483434, christchurch-harbour-hotel.co.uk

Cake: Family friend

Flowers: Flaura Boutique, Boscombe East, Bournemouth, 01202 419494, flauraboutique.co.uk

Transport: Superwed Cars, Bournemouth, 01202 423866, superwed.co.uk

Entertainment: Le Patriks, fearnemusic.co.uk

To see more of Andy and Emma’s wedding photos see our online gallery or the 2013 issue of Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire BRIDE