When Heather and Brian from Swinton planned their 2020 wedding they had only one date in mind - 10th July - Heather’s late brother Thomas’ birthday.
With the date confirmed they set about planning their wedding and booked venues in Gretna Green for the ceremony and reception. Bridesmaids and best men were chosen, rings picked, dresses bought, menu sorted and guests invited. Their plans were coming along nicely until the Coronavirus pandemic had other ideas. Following government guidelines, their Gretna Green wedding had to be cancelled just two weeks before their big day! Although alternative dates were offered Heather and Brian agreed that their wedding still had to take place on 10th July so they started to plan their ‘at home’ wedding.
With the help of her bridesmaids, Helen and Liz, her two sons and close family, Heather sprung into action and found local businesses who were able to help her create her perfect wedding day.
Heather and Brian’s neighbours joined in the preparations by making sure their front gardens were tidy and blooming for the big day.
Family friend, Reverend Stuart McQuarrie conducted the ceremony and the happy couple were surrounded by close family as they took their vows and celebrated in a marquee in their garden. Due to the restrictions at the time on social gatherings, they were unable to invite all their guests at once instead they were able to dress up and invite work colleagues, friends and neighbours over the next two days. Not many brides get to wear their dress three days in a row!
Heather and Brian would like to offer their thanks to Baillies Marquees, Tell Design and Print, Neil Hunter Limos, Thomas Rae the Tailor and Kirsty the hairdresser who worked so hard to make their day special. They’d like to offer extra special thanks to their neighbours, Mr and Mrs Mall, who prepared and served all the food for the three-day celebrations.