Laura and Elliott’s engagement took place in the picturesque coastal town of Sorrento in May 2022, where Elliott proposed with a striking black tourmalated quartz ring featuring silver skull detailing. A beautifully unconventional choice that perfectly captured their gothic style.
Photos: By Karolina Photography
After viewing eight venues, Laura and Elliott were beginning to wonder if they would ever find the wow factor they had been searching for. From the moment they arrived at The Willows, everything seemed to fall into place. The stunning, rustic décor in the main hall and ceremony room created a warm and romantic atmosphere, allowing the happy couple to keep styling minimal while still creating a beautiful celebration that reflected their personalities.
The Willows wedding package included everything they had hoped for, from a wedding breakfast with a selection of menu options to choose from, to a celebratory toasting drink and bottles of wine on the tables, making the planning process feel seamless and stress-free. Most importantly, the team at The Willows made Laura and Elliott feel completely looked after, allowing them to relax and truly enjoy every moment of the celebration.
“It is a venue like no other – it has the perfect atmosphere and central location… They really do run weddings at The Willows like a well-oiled machine, and Fiona was utterly fabulous on the day and night making sure everything went smoothly for us. We had no problems or stress prior or on our Wedding and it was all down to their fabulous Team!” – Laura Sharp
To make the occasion even more special, the bridal party stayed the night before the wedding in The Nest’s luxurious suites, beautifully decorated to create a calm and memorable start to the celebrations. The following morning was slow, relaxed and filled with anticipation as everyone prepared together for the day ahead.
Photos: By Karolina Photography
With the wedding taking place on Halloween, the bride and groom wanted to create a dark, moody experience their guests would never forget, choosing to include a magician as entertainment between the wedding breakfast and evening celebrations. Perfectly complementing the couple’s gothic wedding, the magician moved throughout the room performing an incredible mix of card tricks, eerie illusions and mind-bending moments that quickly became a talking point among family and friends. The unique entertainment ensured there was never a lull throughout the day, creating unforgettable memories for everyone who attended.
Photos: By Karolina Photography
Living up to the reputation of The Woodmans Arms, the wedding breakfast at The Willows was a true highlight of the day. One of the details that set the venue apart for Laura and Elliott was the ability for guests to choose from multiple options across all three courses, creating a dining experience that felt thoughtful and personal for everyone attending.
Guests were invited to choose between starters including parma ham or mozzarella and rocket salad, seafood salad or chicken parfait, followed by mains of pulled lamb shoulder, rare sirloin of beef or crown chicken breast. To finish, desserts included cheesecake, sticky toffee pudding or profiteroles, offering something for every taste.
For Laura and Elliott, the standout dish of the day was the pulled lamb shoulder, although guests complimented every course throughout the celebrations. Beautifully presented and cooked to perfection, the food exceeded expectations and became one of the most talked-about parts of the wedding.
Photos: By Karolina Photography
Staying true to the couple’s gothic vision, Laura chose a striking black lace wedding gown custom made by Rare Bridal Studios. Featuring a deep V neckline, flowing A line skirt and low back, the dress perfectly reflected her personal style and individuality. Having never imagined herself wearing a traditional white gown, Laura worked closely with the team at Rare Bridal Studios to bring her vision to life in a way that felt entirely authentic to her.
Elliott complemented the look perfectly in a classic black three-piece suit, styled with a crisp white shirt and black spotty tie. Tying in beautifully with the autumnal, gothic wedding theme, his white rose and copper leaf boutonniere added the perfect finishing touch.
Photos: By Karolina Photography
Laura and Karl from Laura’s Films captured the wedding celebrations with a cinematic style that perfectly reflected the couple’s vision and the dark, atmospheric feel of their Halloween-inspired day. Going above and beyond throughout the entire process, the duo exceeded all expectations, creating a beautifully crafted wedding film that Laura and Elliott will treasure for years to come.
Venue
Photographer
Videography
Lauren’s Bespoke Dress
Elliott’s Suit
Flowers & Styling
DJ
Magician
LED Signage
Stationary
Macaron Tower
Wedding Rings
Simply sign up to our Willows VIP’s mailing list and we’ll send over a link to view and download our online brochure.
