Rosie & Alby’s Suffolk Wedding at Home
Back in April, Rosie and Alby first got in touch with me to book On the Day Wedding Coordination. From the very first email, Rosie explained their vision: they would be marrying at her father’s family home in Suffolk, a place full of treasured memories.
Although they live in London, Rosie and Alby always dreamt of a wedding in a special location that truly felt like theirs. The family home was perfect. They went above and beyond to transform it into a wedding-ready venue: even converting one of their barns especially for the big day. Alongside this, they brought in a beautiful stretch tent for the wedding breakfast and chose one of the paddocks, rich in family history, to hold their blessing.
A Planning Journey Together
Rosie was very much a Type A bride, organised, decisive, and a complete dream to work with. She and Alby also added a site visit and a face-to-face planning meeting with me, which proved invaluable.
During this three-hour session, we discovered the practicalities that needed addressing – such as fridge and freezer space for catering a two-day wedding with over 100 guests. We also refined their wet weather Plan B (very much needed in the end!) and mapped out detailed logistics of supplier arrivals and set-up times. This planning session was absolutely vital in making sure everything ran smoothly.
The Wedding Day
On the day itself, I arrived early to oversee set-up and organisation. Everything was coming together beautifully, though, of course, we’d been obsessively watching the weather all week.
Typical British weather struck, and the forecast showed over 60% chance of rain. Unfortunately, it timed itself perfectly for the ceremony and drinks reception. There was a lot of back and forth that morning about whether to go ahead with the outdoor ceremony or move to Plan B. I always give my opinion, but ultimately it’s down to the couple to decide what feels right.
Rosie and Alby were absolute troopers. They went ahead, umbrellas and blankets at the ready. Yes, it rained during the ceremony and drinks, but thanks to a solid Plan B, it didn’t spoil the celebrations. (Although, I’ll admit, I looked like a drowned rat by the end – all part of the job!)
Personal & Meaningful Touches
What made this wedding so special was just how many personal elements were woven throughout the day.
Rosie wore her late mum’s wedding dress – something I’d never seen in my 15 years in this industry. It was the most moving and beautiful tribute.
Her sister baked the wedding cake.
Rosie herself stitched the tablecloths and even made the flower girl dresses.
All the stationery and signage were DIY projects, crafted with love.
This was a wedding that screamed personality and meaning. Every detail reflected Rosie and Alby’s vision.
Family Effort
I must give a huge shout-out to Rosie’s father and his wife, who put in weeks (if not months) of preparation. They repainted the house, converted a barn, brought in caterers (and their kit!), installed portaloos, mowed fields for parking – you name it, they did it. Hosting over 100 guests at your home is no small feat, and they absolutely smashed it.
From oyster shuckers to nannies for the children, bar staff for the evening, and even my favourite “cocktail & cake hour” built into the timeline, the day was full of charm and energy.
Reflections
Rosie was honestly a dream to work with. She trusted my advice, made quick decisions, and brought such creativity to her wedding. If I could have Rosie as my bride every time, I absolutely would!
And for anyone considering an at-home wedding, I can’t stress enough how essential an On the Day Coordinator is, at the very least. Even with a super-organised bride like Rosie, the logistics of essentially building your own wedding venue from scratch are huge. Most of my at-home couples book partial or full planning, but with careful teamwork, Rosie and Alby pulled it off beautifully.
Congratulations to this wonderful couple, and now, have a peek at their amazing suppliers who helped make this day possible.
Suppliers
Photographer @amymurrell
Flowers - Homegrown
Marquee @thehighfieldeventgroup
Bridal Dress - MOB’s dress
Tableware @aplacesetting
Band @thelowridersband
Oyster Shucker @oystermeisteruk
