Charlotte & Nathan: A Relaxed and Romantic Wedding at The Old Kent Barn

The Old Kent Barn had everything we were looking for, all in one place. Since we were having a summer wedding, we wanted an outdoor ceremony, and the venue offered the perfect setting for that. There was also the option to move inside in case it rained. We enjoyed our meal in the barn, which later transformed into a spacious area for evening entertainment, complete with a bar and a dance floor.

All the staff were so accommodating and helped with the planning right up until the big day, so it took a lot of the stress off!

My wedding dress was a stunning creation from Bridal Way in Ramsgate. Despite being strapless, a style I initially didn’t consider, I fell in love with it the moment I put it on. The white satin fabric, the slit down one side, and the unique bone structure of the top part, reminiscent of a corset, all added to its elegance. The floaty bottom was the perfect touch.

My talented makeup artist, Emilie Morrisey, did a fantastic job. I don’t like heavy makeup, and she perfectly understood my preference for a more subtle look. Hair was by Sophistic Hair. Having an updo, one thing I was concerned about was it falling out, but she smashed it, and my hair was intact the whole day (I almost didn’t want to take it out). I had a loose bun with braids down the side going into the bun.

The bridesmaid dresses were made of beautiful olive green satin. I had seven bridesmaids, each wearing a different style. I wanted them to feel comfortable and confident, so I let them choose their own style.

Nathan’s suit, by Moss Bros, was beige, and the inside was hand-stitched with the date of our marriage and our initials.

The cake was actually from Marks and Spencer. It was a two-tier naked vanilla cake. I purchased a boho style cake decoration to add on the side. Catering was included as part of the venue package and it was incredible! For the evening we served German-style hot dogs!

James was great! There was no pressure to do any cringe poses; he just captured the entire day, and everyone just looked so natural. There were a couple of requests that I asked for, including group photos, and I wanted some photos in golden hour with the sun setting, and everything was captured perfectly.

On the day, James also took some photos using a Polaroid, and these were given to us on the day in a cute little pouch, that was a really nice touch.

Apart from the ceremony, walking down the aisle to my husband was my favourite moment. It was the part I dreaded the most, in case I fell or ugly cried, but the adrenaline took over, and it’s just the most incredible feeling! Also, seeing all that had been planned come together and come to life was amazing.

Relax. I set an expectation that something would go wrong, so I was cool about it if it did. Enjoy every second of your big day, take as many pictures as possible with your loved ones, and spend time with your wife or husband. Remember, it’s your day!