Some weddings have romance. Some have stunning décor, heartfelt vows, and unforgettable photos.

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But Dan and I had penguins. And honestly… they almost stole the show.

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Our wedding day, 04/10/2025, began much like any other relaxed Saturday. With Dan shipped off to his parents’ the night before and my sister—also my bridesmaid—staying with me, the morning felt almost strangely normal. We had a cuppa, chatted, and soaked in the calm before the magic.

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At 11:30am, the transformation began. My hairdressers had closed the shop just for us, complete with balloons, a literal red carpet, and chilled Prosecco waiting in an ice bucket. It felt so special.
Graham Dale Photography captured every moment with such warmth, and I’m forever grateful for those behind-the-scenes shots.

By 2pm we headed to my dad’s to get into our dresses—mine feeling genuinely magical. At 3:15pm, our beautiful 7-seater vintage wedding car from 3D Classic Car Hire rolled up. Her name was Tilly, and she was everything.

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Arriving at Dudley Registry Office, Priory Suite, the emotions hit all at once. Walking in to “So This Is Love” from Cinderella… well, let’s just say I didn’t stand a chance. The happy tears flowed.

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After the ceremony and a few photos, it was time for the part of the day I’m not allowed to call my favourite — but let’s be honest, everyone knows.

We fed penguins. At our wedding.

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At Dudley Zoo, we were told penguins can be nervous around big dresses. Mine was very big. But instead of shying away, they waddled right up to us like little feathery VIP guests. I’m sure it was the elegance of the gown and not the handful of fish.
(We’ll politely ignore the moment Dan scared them when his pocket square fell out.)

The photos are everything — and yes, the penguin one deserves pride of place.

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We celebrated that evening in the Queen Mary Ballroom, which Valentine Wedding Décor transformed from a cafeteria into the most beautiful wedding venue. They worked absolute magic, and it felt like stepping into a fairytale.

My incredible colleague made our wedding cake:
two tiers of lemon, one of chocolate, and tiny models of me and Dan on top. It was perfect.

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The whole night was filled with joy, laughter, and relief that Storm Amy decided to behave.

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Finally, to the amazing ladies who helped me find my dream dress — thank you. You weren’t pushy, you understood my body, my style, and my worries, and you made every fitting feel like an experience. You hyped me up at every appointment, and I’ll genuinely miss seeing you.

It truly was the most magical day, made even more special by the people (and penguins!) who were part of it.

Thank you again, you wonderful, fabulous ladies.
xx

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