29.02.2024

February 29, 2024 Julia Kellam

Has anyone been waiting too long for a proposal? Well today you’re encouraged to take it into your own hands girls because it’s ‘Ladies Privilege’ also known as ‘Bachelor’s Day’ and most simply - the 29th February and it only comes around once every 4 years!

Rumour has it (along with many unverified online sources) that ‘back in the day’ the 29th February was not an official recognised day - therefore the legal bar on women proposing would not apply! As far back as 5th century Ireland it is written that Saint Brigid was said to have negotiated a deal with the nation's patron Saint Patrick, having complained about women having to wait too long to be proposed to!

This soon caught on in England and Scotland before crossing the Atlantic to reach the United States - forming the basis of Sadie Hawkins dances in American high schools.

Let us know in the comments if and how you popped the question in a leap year!

We did a little digging and came across some weird and wonderful ‘leap tear’ folklores, here’s just a few of the traditions we were having a giggle over at FDB HQ.

In some parts of Europe it is said that if a woman proposed and a man refused, he would have to give recompense to the woman with gifts. Here are some of our favourites;

He would have to buy her twelve pairs of gloves to hide the shame she was not wearing ring.
Buy her a silk gown.
Purchase a fur coat!

Men may also have to perform something for her, like a juggling trick on Easter Day (how specific!)

We also read a few articles that in 1288, it was made into a law that women could propose during leap years but they must wear a red petticoat while proposing, and that refusals would result in a fine.

The first record of the tradition in the United States is in 1860, mentions of a "leap year dance", where the men sit around waiting to be invited by the women. It became more known in the early 20th century, but was the butt of jokes about unmarried, romantically aggressive, women. Cartoons were published mocking the concept in various forms, commonly depicting women discussing the use of, or using, aggressive measures like nets to capture unwitting men.

As we’ve said let us know if you’ve heard any other great traditions, or if you made any of your own.

Happy Proposing, Team FDB x

Image Credit// Fraser McGee Weddings Photography

FDB Real Bride Ellie wearing custom ‘Pearl’ by Stephanie Allin

When to Start Dress Shopping

January 21, 2024 Julia Kellam

Tis the season to get engaged which often brings around the question, ‘When should I start dress shopping?’

Christmas, New Years and with Valentines on the horizon, this time of year is bursting with newly engaged brides to be, many of which may have ‘scrap booked’ their entire wedding including their ‘dress of dreams’ but for most, the whirlwind will calm and the searching will begin.

Whether wedding dress shopping is something you have always dreamt about or not, it is more than likely to be the single most expensive clothing purchase you will ever make. I often think that being a bride is like being promoted to CEO of a huge organisation. You are the boss. You are in charge. You call all the shots. Now on paper this sounds incredible – but the reality of this can often be rather daunting; this is where we come in.

We usually advise that you start searching for your gown around 12 months before your wedding date. All brides are different so if you wish to start looking sooner, generally the more time on our side the better when it comes to your atelier appointments. However, coming too early can sometimes counteract the super organisation. There will be new collections to consider and theres always the danger you might change your mind (on the dress, not the fiancé 😏).

On the other end of the scales theres the ‘last minuters’ - don't panic if you need something sooner, we will do our best to accommodate all timescales theres just a few things to consider here. Mainly, the manufacturing lead time of our designers and the logistics of physically being able to create your dress in time. We do have a select edit of ‘Ready to Wear’ dress though so like I’ve said; all is not lost. Our current record is 5 days, not to boast or encourage this reckless behaviour.

The final thing to consider is our appointment diary - weekday bookings are generally more flexible however Saturdays as you can imagine are in high demand, with brides booking as far as 11 months in advance. We look forward to welcoming you to our Nottinghamshire showroom soon.

Much love, Team FDB x

Hera Couture - Guest Designer

January 18, 2024 Julia Kellam

Did you hear… Frances Day Bridal is currently playing host to the insanely gorgeous New Zealand brand Hera Couture. The collection from director and creative genius that is Katie Yeung, marries together timeless style and exquisite craftsmanship.

“At Hera Couture our mission is to create exquisite, couture gowns that make every woman feel confident, empowered, and truly beautiful. With a focus on exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a commitment to inclusivity, we are dedicated to providing our clients with a truly extraordinary experience”

What makes Hera Couture so right for the Frances Day Bride you ask? It’s the versatility - taking your look from day to night and back again. Don’t get me wrong, the Hera Couture dresses alone are a thing of true beauty, but for me, it’s the extras that really stand out in this edit.

Girls, I’m talking, ribbon, tulle, crepe, sheer sleeves and wait for it… bows. Bows galore! There’s no bridal write up right now that isn’t hailing bows as the must have trend and we couldn’t agree more. Whether they’re oversized and sculptured or delicate and minimal, we’re living in a bows worlds and we’re totally here for it.

With the right selection of Hera Couture pieces, you could elevate one dress into multiple styles from ceremony though too evening - that’s a lot of hours for styling opportunities. We get it, not everyones budget allows you to go all ‘J-Lo’ and have five different gowns for one set of nuptials but alas, with Hera’s divine selection the possibilities are yours for the taking.

The collection is available to try through out January in our showroom - we can’t promise it’ll stay with us much longer with its high demand. Book your appointment with us and lets see what we can create.

Much love, Hannah & the FDB Team x

Credit // With thanks to Stories From Eros for capturing the Hera Couture Collection in our Nottinghamshire Showroom.

With Love & Thanks: An Evening with Suzanne Neville

December 7, 2023 Julia Kellam

We have been reflecting on our wonderful event at The Old Vicarage in celebration of the Suzanne Neville Symphony Collection. We haven't had the opportunity to host an evening like this for a while, so in collaboration with our annual designer day, the stars aligned for an evening with Suzanne. We've put this little debrief together to thank all of our incredible contributors who made this evening such a success.

Allow me to set the scene...

The candles were flickering, the fizz was flowing and The Old Vicarage Orangery was a buzz with excited brides and their loved ones. Beautifully presented in all their glory were the Frances Day Suzanne Neville 2024 edit. Poised and in prime position were 'Debussy' with its delicate all over floral appliqué and 'Puccini' with her show stopping bow and train.

Throughout the evening our gorgeous models Sadie and Bonnie, also showcased 'Rossini', 'Busotti', 'Holst' and 'Stravinsky' to audible gasps around the room. Delicious canapés circled throughout the night thanks to the resident chef at The Old Vicarage, trialing their new taster menu with delicious results.

We all took our seats for the Q&A which began with a little Frances Day introduction before we delved into the magical mind of Suzanne Neville. Her incredible background, life stories and love for the industry was a fascinating listen, we could have been there all night.

Our event wouldn't have been possible without the support and creative talents of our wonderful contributors. We highly recommend the following suppliers and friends of Frances Day.

Hosts - The Old Vicarage
Floristry - Gigil & Bloom
Make Up Artist - Eve Bridal Beauty
Hair Stylist - Leah Bailey
Sweet Treats - Little Brunette Bakery
Photographer - Pear & Bear
Videographer - Rather Lovely Films
Accessories - Miss Clemmie Accessories
Content Creator - The Relaxed Bride
Models - Sadie Chambers & Bonnie Turnbull

Hands up who would like to relive the evening again!! Stay tuned for more Frances Day Bridal events in collaboration with our wonderful designers and local businesses. If you're yet to book your private appointment to try on this beautiful collection get in touch, we'd love to host you.

Much Love, Team FDB x

Suzanne Neville: 2023 Designer Day

November 16, 2023 Julia Kellam

We are delighted to invite Suzanne Neville back to Frances Day for our much loved designer day on Friday 24th November 2023. This annual event is always a firm favourite in our calendar and this years is no exception. In fact, we’re extending the fun and hosting an exclusive evening at The Old Vicarage, more details here.

During your private appointment Suzanne, along with a member of the FDB team will be on hand to give expert knowledge and advice. The chance to get a real insight into her designs and the story behind the creations, in-depth fitting expertise and artistic flair. Ever thought of a Suzanne bespoke number? Now is your chance.

We have limited availability but please get in touch if you would like an appointment. This offer extends to Mothers of the Bride and Groom too.

Ooo and as an extra treat, orders placed on the day will receive a complementary illustration of your bespoke creation from Suzanne herself. See you there, Team FDB x

S Y M P H O N Y C O L L E C T I O N

Frances Day Bridal’s Suzanne Neville Collection edit includes, Busotti, Rossini, Stravinsky, Holst, Debussy, Degas, Puccini, Mahler and Mozart.

Symphony : Suzanne Neville 2024 Collection

October 7, 2023 Julia Kellam

A typical summer morning in July, it’s threatening rain and the Suzanne Neville ‘Symphony Collection’ Catwalk is calling us to London. Descending on the capital from various locations we eventually, after a few network rail challenges, rendezvoused at Kings Cross Station, hailed a black cab (which hands down is a sensational I’m Carrie Bradshaw feeling moment), and headed to our destination.

The setting for todays showcase is Dartmouth House, an elegant Georgian mansion in the heart of Mayfair. We stepped inside and ascended the magnificent staircase, sunlight shining in through signature Georgian sash paned windows, the landing a buzz with guests. We delightfully excepted a bubbling glass and made our way into ‘The Long Drawing Room’ took our seats and eagerly awaited the start of the show. I will at this point just highlight how gorgeous the floral arrangements were that adorned the fireplaces and accompanying surfaces.

A brief introduction to ‘Symphony’ the music started and the first model appeared through the grand doorway from the adjoining Churchill Room. What followed was truly a visual delight, of sweeping skirts, intricate lace, striking necklines, dazzling shimmer and those luxurious lines we trust Suzanne to deliver with every collection. There was also a moment for mini’s too as their increasing popularity as the second dress option continues to trend into the 2024 collections we are seeing. A key moment that was met with an audible gasp from the rest of the room, were the sequinned feather trousers that danced down the runway. Other highlights included voluptuous trailing bows, twisted structured that gave me ‘little mermaid clam shell vibes’ in the best way possible, and the use of cut floral fabrics that brought a new edge to whimsical.

After the applause, we left the drawing room while it was repurposed as a viewing gallery for a closer inspection of the new collection. Gathered round, a few ‘hellos’ to some familiar faces and a quick debrief of the show to discuss our personal favourites we waited to get a closer look.

As the doors reopened, I had to remind myself this wasn’t a ‘Friends’ style sample sale dash for the now fondly known ‘trousers of dreams’ and instead we peacefully went back into the now transformed drawing room. Across four different rails the Symphony Collection was ready for its close up.

We reviewed all we had seen but this time looking attentively at the lace patterns and running the materials through our finger tips. The petal works and appliqué is nothing short of magical and new to 2024, a painted veil which you have to see to believe.

As the guests began to depart so did we. With approximately one hundred million snaps of the day, our buying guide and collection overview it was time for further discussions about which to select for Frances Day. The process of course aided delightfully with some sushi on Berkeley Square.

The Symphony Collection will be arriving at Frances Day Bridal and available to try from the end of October. Think your dream dress could be amongst our selection? Oooh one more piece of exciting information to add, our Suzanne Neville Designer Day is taking place on the Friday 24th November. Get in touch to book your private appointment in our Nottinghamshire boutique.

Call us for a natter on 01636 813 967 or drop us an email on hello@francesdaybridal.co.uk

Much Love, Team FDB x

The Annual FDB Sale: What to Expect

August 31, 2023 Julia Kellam

If you haven’t already heard we are hosting our annual sample sale and well well well, you’re in for a treat. If you’re getting married and haven’t found ‘the one’ yet, you’re going to want to be outside Frances Day Bridal at 9:30am, Saturday 9th September. Even if you’ve found your dress, have you thought about looking for a little evening number? A dress for the registry prior to the big celebration? Maybe even a special honeymoon number? We have such a range going into this years selection the possibilities are endless.

We’ve already had many enquires and so many of you registering your interest that we thought we should delve a little deeper in to what to expect. So here it goes.

The Main Event

Hosted in our bridal showroom and featuring all our designers, Suzanne Neville, Stephanie Allin, Jesus Peiro and Trish Peng, our selected dresses will be ready and waiting. It’a a first come first serve basis and although we usually operate by private appointment only, don’t stress, this isn’t going to be some mad grab and dash event. The vibe remains super chilled and friendly and the team will be there to assist you in the dressing room and around the boutique.

The gowns are sized between 12 - 16, the majority size 14. As a general rule we suggest that some styles can be sized down by two dress sizes but again, our seamstress Queen Jenny will be there on the day to give you honest fit advice along with the rest of the team. Alterations packages are available on all sale items. If you have travelled quite a way to get to us and would prefer to have your alterations closer to home, you are under no obligation to use our atelier.

Hope & Ivy

In a Frances Day Bridal first, we will be collaborating with the wonderful ladies of Hope & Ivy and hosting their sample sale upstairs in The Old Courthouse; doors will open at 10am. Their dresses are epitomised by beautiful embroidery, hand-drawn prints and flowing fabrics and will be available to buy in sizes 6 - 18. There are many occasion wear styles to choose from, not just bridal and bridesmaid, so this really is a unique opportunity to dress the whole gang! Prices are staring at £20. Yes, I know, it’s not a typo, we really are spoiling you. Some dresses might have a slight imperfection so please check you are happy before you make your purchase as refunds will not be offered.

Shoes & Accessories

Just when you thought we couldn’t pack anything else into one sale, we have. There will be shoes galore from contemporary designer ‘I am Florence’ in a variety of styles and heel heights and here’s the best bit we’ve priced these at £45 instead of £235… I know, it’s epic. Veils, from Helen Martin, Joyce Jackson and more wonderful FDB creations just waiting for you to select. Prices will start at £20. A few little Miss Clemmie Accessories are also headed into the sale.

Finer Details

As you can see we will have a lot going on. To make the event run as smoothly as possible we kindly ask you only bring along one guest. Of course if you have friends and family interested in the Hope & Ivy sale, bring the bridesmaids, the maid of honour, the mothers and all the gals! Customer parking is available right outside our boutique, along with free on street parking on the Burgage. Alternatively, King Street Car Park is a 2 minute walk away, here you’ll get your first 2 hours free.

All sales to be paid in full on the day. Alterations and Dry Cleaning services are available at an additional cost.

We can’t wait to see you there, Team FDB x

Helen & Ross: Lights, Camera, Action in Suzanne Neville

July 13, 2023 Julia Kellam

Well it’s been a while since I’ve tapped at these keys, owing to the fact I’ve welcomed my own little lady to the world but as she’s occupying Grandma for the afternoon, I have many wonderful things to catch you up on. Let’s start with Helen and Ross’s February wedding at Grangefields, Ashbourne. These self confessed film fanatics wanted their day to be filled with fun, love and happiness and after a quick peek at their gorgeous pictures, I’d say they did just that.

We love nothing more than sharing your Frances Day ‘Real Bride’ Stories, so before we really get into it, let’s just have a moment of appreciation for all our FDB Allumi!

Right then, grab the popcorn and get comfy as we relive the highlights through Helen’s own words.

Lights, Camera, Action, this is Mr & Mrs Locker.

Take 1 - Setting the Scene

“Our ceremony and reception both took place at Grangefields. We fell in love with Grangefields at first sight - it was the only venue we viewed as it was just stunning, and perfect for us. We are one of the last of our friends to get married, so we had been to most of the wedding venues in the local area, and we wanted somewhere unique to us. Grangefields was a fairly new venue and also not far from the majority of our guests so it was a perfect location. It is also the perfect mix of rustic and modern and would go with our vision of a timeless yet modern aesthetic.

A major selling point was the ceremony room, it is just beautiful. It looks like a church without being a church, and we could just imagine walking down the aisle and getting some gorgeous photos. The food also looked incredible, and they served pizzas in the evening. Given that we have a pizza oven at home, Grangefields just felt like the perfect fit for us! There was nothing we didn't love about it.”

Take 2 - Helen’s Bridal Style

“I have always loved a simple, clean and modern aesthetic when it comes to weddings! In my opinion you can't beat a chic white dress that allows a bride to shine, it's timeless. It also allows you to accessorise in whichever way you want, as everything goes with it! I love documentary style, black and white photos and I wanted to feel like I could belong in Vogue for one day!”

Take 3 - The Groom’s Look

“Ross loves films, so the day was subtly themed around this. Our table names were our favourite films, including memorable quotes, all the key music choices came from our favourite films and TV shows, we even had a reading from the film the Wedding Singer!

Our colour scheme was black and white, with green and a hint of blue as a nod to my Dad's favourite colour who sadly passed away in 2021. The bridesmaids dresses were navy, and the groomsmen were in black tie, with Ross wearing a navy velvet jacket to create a classy, timeless vibe.”

Take 4 - Helen’s FDB Experience

“Bridal shopping was so much fun! I had an idea of what I wanted to try on prior to arriving, however I also wanted to remain open minded and put my trust in the experts too! I had heard that dresses can look completely different on than off the hanger, so I wasn't disheartened when the dress I had liked online didn't do anything for me in real life!

Emma was great at picking up on what aspects of the dresses I did and didn't like and would make suggestions of alternative dresses based on how I was feeling and what I said. I didn't find the dress in my first session, however it was great for narrowing down the options and I came back six weeks later for another appointment as I knew my dress was at FBD, I just had to find her!

I asked Emma if I could try a dress she suggested in my first session (that I didn't try on), and she organised the dresses I had chosen into an order to try on. As I tried on the dresses it became clearer and clearer that the last dress (the one Emma had recommended) - Suzanne Neville's Penny - had all the aspects I was looking for. I tried it on and I fell in love with it, and the rest is history! Emma clearly knows her bridal fashion and what would suit me. It was like she read my mind!

I felt so supported through the whole experience, there wasn't a moment I didn't enjoy. Even when I turned up to my fittings with about 6 coats and multiple pairs of shoes to see which would go best with the dress the ladies weren't phased, and instead gleefully helped me go through the selection and choose the right accessories, so it all went together perfectly on the day.

FBD you were my incredible hype crew and I can't thank you enough for making me look and feel amazing!”

Take 5 - The Main Event

“The wedding day was incredible. It was everything we dreamed of and more! What is not to love about drinking champagne at 10 o'clock in the morning surrounded by your own personal glam squad! The morning was so relaxed. I am always late so I was worried about being on time, but on the day I barely even looked at my watch. My MUA and hairdresser were amazing at keeping to time and before I knew it, we were all glammed up and it was time to put the dress on! I did have a minor panic when putting the dress on that my sister couldn't do it up, but it turned out she was struggling with the buttons as a result of the gloves! Phew!

We had hired an old version 2 Landrover on the day which was great fun to travel in. We had the back open so spent 10 minutes laughing and waving at people as we drove by! As we turned into the venue, so did one of our guests behind us, which we found hilarious, but I think they were mortified and wouldn't return our wave as we made our way down the farm track! I made it to the venue on time which I think no-one, including Ross expected so that was a major win!

The ceremony was so lovely, we remembered our lines, the rings fitted, and all of a sudden we were married! We had quite a big wedding so after the fun confetti shots (the part I had been most looking forward to) we made an effort to say hello to as many guests as possible before we had our photos. We had an amazing magician who did us a private viewing before we sat down for dinner. He blew my mind, turning a pack of cards into a perspex box in my hand!!

The speeches were lovely and went without a hitch. My Mum did an incredible job of stepping in for my Dad who has sadly passed away, and everyone said how well she did and how good her speech was! The food was delicious, and again everyone commented on how good it was. We were so happy everyone was enjoying themselves.

We had a few more photos after the dinner, ending with a sparkler shot - which was chaos! In hindsight having 130 people around you trying to light sparklers is maybe not the best idea, especially as a spark flew off and burnt a hole in my bridesmaids dress! Luckily she was OK, handled it like a pro and there was no lasting damage - and we got some beautiful photos!

After the cake was cut the party started and once the videographer and photographer had left the high heels came off and the converse went on - it was party time! We truely had the most wonderful day!”

Take 6 - Helen’s Words of Wisdom

“After I got engaged my friend told me how she made sure really enjoyed and made the most of dress shopping as she knew she was only going to have this experience once, and that really stuck with me! I didn't stress if something didn't suit me, or put too much pressure on finding 'the one', and as a result I had the best experience.

I would also say trust the process. It can be daunting as its likely your hair and make up trials will be on different days and you won't see it all come together until the big day. However it really does all come together, and on the day the little concerns really don't matter as once you get to the bottom of the aisle the love and joy of the occasion just takes over!”

Take 7 - Newlywed Bliss

“We have most enjoyed having some time off after the wedding. We had a month wait until our honeymoon so we took a two day trip to Oxford straight after getting married, and it was so lovely to have a bit longer in the bubble before we had to go back to work. We then had our official honeymoon which was amazing! Now we are back down to earth we are looking forward to putting the final touches on our house renovation which have been somewhat on hold whilst we planned the wedding, and booking some more trips/experiences in!”

Helen + Ross: The Team

Photographer - Katie Ingram
Videographer - Rather Lovely Films
Venue - Grangefields & Cripps & Co
Flowers - Nadia di Tullio
Hair - Helen Sutcliffe
MUA - Ali Gunn
Singer - Sam Hinds
Magician - Will Gray
Cake - Bake Ashbourne
Hairpiece - Miss Clemmie Accessories
Dress - Suzanne Neville at Frances Day Bridal
Shoes - Jimmy Choo
Grooms Suit - Reiss
Grooms Waistcoat - Black Butterfly Tailoring
Pre Venue Cottage - Hall Farm Holidays
DJ - Benny Smyth
Veil - Frances Day Bridal
Wedding Car Vintage Landy Wedding and Event Hire
Bridesmaids Dresses - Davids Bridal

Jesus Peiro 2023 - The Ninfas Collection

August 16, 2022 Julia Kellam

Visually indulge in ‘Ninfas’ the latest collection from Spanish Bridal House Jesus Peiro.

“These nymphs frolic and flirt with the beams of sunshine, under their petal parasols: dewy, refreshing, and bright-eyed. Their movements are liquid, too, sensual as a stream: they glide across the flowerbeds, and rest on the grass. The nymphs. They hide in the garden of light.” (Jesus Peiro, 2022)

A brand that has devoted itself to delivering a sophisticated silhouette without comprising on texture, volume and elegant adornments. This Jesus Peiro collection, like so many before has been impeccably designed by Merche Segarra, committed to her philosophy of quality, ethically sourced materials and cutting edge style without comprising on the gowns, or indeed the Bride’s own identity.

“Delicate, ethereal flowers feature in many different ways, running through the collection like the nymphs after which they’re named run through the garden of light. Texture and volume combine harmoniously: translucent fil coupé fabric that lends an aura of light to the layers of the dress. Open weaves form flowers big and small, like secret glowing fireflies. Artisanal, appliqué flowers float whimsically on a voluminous silhouette, celestial and cloud-like.” (Jesus Peiro, 2022)

So pour yourself a fabulous Rioja, imagine you’re wandering around ‘Passeig de Gràcia’ Barcelona and lose yourself in the Frances Day Bridal’s carefully curated Ninfas selection, arriving in our Nottinghamshire boutique imminently.

2300 by Jesus Peiro - Dress with pareo skirt in grand piqué Bandeauback bib-style body

2302 Top by Jesus Peiro - Cropped top with long sleeves in 3D embroidered tulle.

2304 by Jesus Peiro - A line stretch crêpe dress, with cutaway neckline and long sleeves in silk Georgette.

2312 by Jesus Peiro - Mermaid dress in crêpe with squared neckline and back. Gigot sleeve in crêpe chiffon and turn-up cuff.

2315 by Jesus Peiro - Bandeau top in high-low plain Mikado. Large volume skirt in Mikado Devorado with oversized flowers.

2320 by Jesus Peiro - Crêpe bodycon dress with Perkins collar, teardrop neck and detachable back veil.

2326 by Jesus Peiro - Large volume halter dress in “Almond Taffeta”.

2329 by Jesus Peiro - Crêpe silhouette framed at the front with ruffled sleeves and plunging back.

2333 by Jesus Peiro - Flared dress with Balconette straps in light Crêpe. Cropped top in matching Chantillys with 3/4 sleeves.

2338 by Jesus Peiro - Extra-mermaid silhouette in “Royal Crêpe” with V-neck front and back. Beading embroidery on back buttoning.

2348 by Jesus Peiro - V-neck silhouette in front and back with waist piece and flared skirt in “Royal Crêpe”. Removable sleeves and cape in “Pleated Soleil Chiffon”.

2349 by Jesus Peiro - Flared silhouette with centre opening. Combination of Crêpe with geometric mesh on sleeves and back neckline.

2357 Cape by Jesus Peiro - Double-layered cape with puffed sleeves in “Nevada Organza”.

2360 by Jesus Peiro - Large volume low hip dress with Balconette neckline. All in “Mikado Taffeta”.

What a visual delight, we can’t wait for this selection to arrive at The Old Courthouse later this year. If you’re interested in the 2023 Jesus Peiro Collection (I mean personally considering a vow renewal just to get my hands on that cape) then subscribe to our mailing list and follow us on Instagram. You’ll then be first in the know! Muchas Gracias, Team FDB x

i love this jp collection

Anna & Sam: A December to Remember

July 19, 2022 Julia Kellam

Well well well, it my have taken a ‘few’ months but finally I’ve put pen to paper, or should that be fingers to keys? either way, it’s here. Our very own FDB Anna, married her true love Sam on the 21st December 2021, and wasn’t it one to remember. As we sit here now reliving the moments thanks to the stunning shots from Emma McNair Photography, it feels like yesterday.

So sit back, relax and imagine it’s a serene frosty morning last winter (even though its the hottest day of the year) and pour yourself something cold and bubbly…

Anna’s Bridal Style

“I always knew I wanted to be a Suzanne Neville bride, this was hundred percent confirmed for me after trying on ‘Gabrielle’, it just had the wow factor. Simple and elegant with a hint of that iconic Hollywood glamour, I was really having my very own Marilyn moment”.

‘Gabrielle’ features a sophisticated sweet heart neckline. Crafted in light sheer Italian crepe, a favourite of the British designer with a modern front skirt split. “For me, I didn’t want anything too big and this dress perfectly complimented my curves. I loved the idea of being able to see my shoes too, plus who doesn’t want to see a little leg on the dance floor”.

Anna kept her bridal party small, her best friend Jodi as Maid of Honour and beautiful little niece Phoebe as Flower Girl and the true heartbreaker of the day.

Before we move on, we must mention the accessories from Miss Clemmie. Anna chose a celestial hair slide and earrings to match, a subtle hint of sparkle for her December date.

Memorable Moments

Trying to select just one favourite moment is truly impossible, I haven’t spoke to one bride who didn’t just say ‘everything’! But when you’re sharing an office and there is no escape, I asked Anna to really think about what she particularly enjoyed or even surprised her.

“When you spend everyday on the other side, becoming the bride yourself, you sort of know what to expect but wow, I really got further insight into the fitting journey. We always tell our brides to ‘trust the process’ and having now seen both sides to the story, our team really are fantastic. Everything you ask for is listened too and the evolution from trying on the style, to it totally becoming your own gown is wonderful. You definitely still get those bridal nerves but it’s truly the most wonderful experience”.

Location. Location. Location.

Anna and Sam chose Colwick Hall, Nottinghamshire. A magnificent Georgian country house mansion with acres of parkland and steeped in history. Of course, its the perfect choice but it’s about to get better. “Colwick is in walking distance from our house, we walk our dog around the gardens and often popped in for drinks in the summer. For us, we couldn’t dream of a better location for our wedding day, it really is a special place for us, now more than ever of course.”

The Main Event

As we mentioned above, Colwick Hall was literally a stones throw away for Anna and Sam, the perfect excuse for Anna and her mum Sue to stay over and enjoy some luxuries the night before the big day. In the morning, the ladies were joined by Maid of Honour Jodi and Mother of the Groom, also Sue for a magical morning of champagne, laughter and of course those all important preparations. “We were able to all get ready together which I loved, and there was still plenty of space for Natalie (Page Beauty Therapy) and Steph, a family friend and hairdresser.

As all wedding mornings do, time flies when you're having fun and it was time for the main event. Anna and Sam decided on a very intimate ceremony, only attended by immediate family. Friends and extended family joined closely after the vows, for their canapé and champagne reception, wedding breakfast, drinks and dancing of course.

“I totally lost it going down the aisle! We always tell our brides to take it slow and don’t rush to the end of the aisle but I just couldn’t help myself or listen to my own advice. I was clearly very excited to marry Sam, after all that’s really what’s important. It’s very easy to get wrapped up and stress over the tinniest of details, but honestly when that moment arrived all I could think about was being married, nothing else mattered”.

The evening continued with superb entertainment from Dammit Jack who played beautifully their chosen first dance as newlyweds, ‘Just You and I’ by Tom Walker, need I say anymore. As guests joined half way through, the celebrations continued well into the early hours, a memorable start for the new Mr and Mrs Thacker.

Words of Wisdom

“Just take it all in. Every, single, moment. It’s cliche but it goes so quickly. Remember why you’re doing it, yes we are bridal gown obsessed but at the end of the day, really focus on the true meaning of your marriage and your wedding day”

Newlyweds

We always like to ask our brides what they’ve enjoyed most durning those first few weeks or months of wedded bliss and what are they looking froward to. I remember the first time being introduced as someones ‘wife’ was such a strange and giddy feeling all in one.

“Our honeymoon to Mexico, was truly amazing and I would highly recommend departing as soon as possible after the wedding, it doesn’t give those wedding blues any chance to creep in, your high continues. When we arrived and I saw Mr and Mrs Thacker, that moment will stay with me forever; it was fun, weird and wonderful all in one. Our adventure continues now as we look forward to welcoming Baby Girl Thacker at the end of the year, may the next chapter begin”.