OUR KENTISH CEREMONY
MARRIED AT SOLTON MANOR
DOVER NATALIE AND DAVE HILLS HAD A SPARKLY SUMMER WEDDING , DESPITE THE RAIN SHOWERS THAT CAME THEIR WAY ON THE DAY
Photography by : James Grist Photography
THE VENUE My husband actually chose our wedding venue , we had looked at a few venues , all with different aspects – gardens , barns , teepees . But Solton Manor was the one venue where we loved the outside setting to have an outdoor wedding AND we liked the indoor back up option ; which is just as well because that ’ s exactly what ended up happening .
THE DRESS My wedding dress was from Chilham Bridal Boutique , and it was completely different to the dress I thought I was going to have ; I tried on various styles and we had narrowed it down to two dresses … then I saw the skirt of ‘ the ’ dress hanging in between others on the rail and at the last minute asked to try it on , and that was that !
THE HAIR AND MAKEUP I am incredibly lucky that my mum is a hairdresser and my sister is a makeup artist , so it was really special to have them do my hair and makeup on my wedding day .
THE PERSONAL TOUCHES Something we really wanted to incorporate was more of a special touch for our daughter . She has learning difficulties , epilepsy and is non verbal – and so , coming out of lockdown we communicated in makaton . We placed makaton cards on each table that were relatable so guests could learn something new for her and maybe even use it to communicate with her . She stole the show for everyone on our day regardless – but we always knew that was going to happen .
THE GLITTER In the evening we had a glitter bar ! It was definitely one highlight for me ; everyone got involved in the glitter and gems and I just loved it . And , it was all my husband ’ s idea !
THE PHOTOGRAPHY We chose James Grist Photography for our photos , we came across him on social media and really liked his informal style . We wanted group photos of loved ones but that also got the fun aspect and really be able to see the love and fun of the wedding in a photo .
THE HIGHLIGHT Our absolute highlight of the day was having everyone on the dancefloor , glittered up , waving giant glow wands around , having the best time dancing and being together .
48 | AKENTISHCEREMONY . COM | SUMMER 2024