Tell us a little about yourselves!
We live in Fort Greene, Brooklyn on the second story of a brownstone. The neighborhood is a hidden gem of New York - we highly recommend you make it part of your next visit.
Why did you decide to get married where you did?
Tessa’s family has ties to the Lake District. Her grandmother was sent as a child to escape the bombing of London. Her grandfather was a freshwater biologist on Lake Windermere.
Tessa’s parents live nearby and their village, Hutton Roof, grew a portion of the wedding flowers.
How many guests did you have?
Approximately 120, not counting the odd sheep.
Tell us about your outfits.
Tessa wore Emilia Wickstead and Galen wore a Thom Sweeney suit.
What was the most important aspect for you, in terms of planning your wedding?
That the wedding was intimate and celebrated the permanent beauty of the Lake District.
Were there any elements that were important for you to incorporate?
We used the same vows that Galen’s parents wrote for their wedding.
‘I take you, Tessa, to be my wife. To cherish and to hold, to honor and respect, to find joy in our strengths, growth through our weaknesses, and peace through our commitment.’
Also of note, Tessa “shot” a hole in a champagne barrel in the tent to commence the festivities. Allegedly, there was a famous great uncle that would start all his parties this way to ensure his guests drank their fill. In this case, the gun was a starter pistol and the hold a plug attached to a string.
Are there any vendors that you would like to tell us a little more about?
Our wedding planner, Hannah Rachael Weddings, is a superstar - consider flying her in if you are getting married outside the UK.
Our bartender, Tom, helped us out in a tight spot when Galen under ordered mixers (thank you if you are reading this).
Colossal Catering's food (black garlic buns!) completely blew us away, causing Galen's mother to track down the chef mid-meal to pay him compliments.
David, owner of the Howtown Hotel was the consummate host - allowing us to clear a field for the ceremony last minute, staying up to serve pints late, and serving delicious breakfasts and lunches.
Lastly, we were very lucky to have Nina Gorshunova and her team, as you can see from her stunning photographs!
Photographer: Nina Gorshunova @tender_photographs | Planning: Hannah Rachael Weddings
@hannahrachaelweddings | Flora: Greenwheat @greenwheatflowers | Ceremony & Reception Location:
Howtown Hotel @howtown | Celebrant: Groom’s sister | Hire: Original Marquees @originalmarquees & Furniture Eden Event Hire @edeneventhire | Hair & Makeup: by Tessa | Catering + Beverages: Colossal Catering & Bar Kindred Spirits @kindredspiritcocktails | Cake: Groom’s Mother | Entertainment: Dae La Roux Function Band @jonnyrossmusic @dae_la_roux | Dress: Emilia Wickstead @emiliawickstead | Suit: Thom Sweeney @thomsweeney