Castle Wedding

When London-based Fiona Thompson, 29, a magazine sub-editor, and Tim Pennell, 29, a sales director, planned a country wedding in their home county of Gloucestershire, they wanted to add a bit of city glamour. 'We had roses dipped in glitter to add a sparkly touch,' says Fiona. The couple had visited their venue, Sudeley Castle, on one of their first dates. 'When Tim proposed years later, it was the first place that sprang into our minds.'
The wedding ceremony was held at nearby St Mary's Church. 'I got very emotional as I walked into the church on my father's arm,' remembers Fiona. 'I had cried so much at the rehearsal that I couldn't speak, so I was practically drinking Bach's Rescue Remedy straight from the bottle before the service to keep calm!'
After an evocative but tear-free service, the newly married couple sipped rosé Champagne outside the church with the guests before moving to the marquee at the castle ruins for the reception. 'The dance floor led to the castle's carp pond, which was the perfect setting in the sunshine, completely calm and still - until Tim's cousin fell in!'