Some love stories begin with fireworks — others, with face masks and goggles. Rosie and Chris first met in 2020 while working for the NHS during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It might not have been love at first sight, but sharing long shifts soon turned into something more.
Once restrictions lifted, their first date took shape over a home-cooked meal — and by 2023, they were strolling the Amalfi Coast on a life-changing trip.
“Chris had done all his preparation and insisted on a morning hike to Positano. Overlooking the coast with the most gorgeous view, Chris went down on one knee and made the proposal. It was the perfect setting.”
Finding the Perfect Wedding Venue
Though they lived in Essex, Rosie, originally from Norfolk, came across Elms Barn by chance. After touring several venues in Essex that just didn’t feel right, something about Elms Barn immediately clicked and they secured their perfect date in March just one week after viewing.
“On the day of the viewing we instantly fell in love with the venue and knew it was the one… Everything about it we loved! And once we heard what Elms Barn offers you for the wedding was even better – the food and drink on offer and having 3 day access to the venue was amazing.”
That extra time turned out to be key, as many of their friends and family would be travelling for the celebration.
Styling the Day
Inspired by Pinterest, TikTok, and the timeless charm of the barn itself, Rosie and Chris opted for a modern minimalist aesthetic with personal handmade touches. Florals by the Elms Barn florists in timeless whites and greens matching perfectly with all those personal touches.
“We knew we wanted a minimalist touch but with added little details. We also wanted to keep in touch with the Barn’s style, which is why we went for a lot of foliage along with white flowers.”
“We handmade what we could: table names, confetti, table and welcome signs… It helped to save costs and was fun to make together!”
A Day Full of Emotion, Joy, and Laughter
The wedding day itself was a joyful celebration from beginning to end. While every part of the day stood out to the couple, one moment in particular struck a deeply emotional chord.
“Reading our letters to each other whilst getting ready in the morning… it was a lovely reminder of your love for one another and how much you mean to each other.”
Chris surprised Rosie with a photo album telling the story of their relationship, making that quiet morning moment even more special.
And of course — there was that camper van.
“The camper van Rosie’s dad had arranged to drive up to the barn had broken down. It had to be left at a petrol garage in Harleston! Another recommendation for future couples – go ahead with booking the Bentley that Elms Barn offers!”
The Dream Team: Trusted Local Suppliers
Rosie and Chris were so grateful for the incredible team of local wedding suppliers who brought their vision to life. Not only did they deliver on the day — but their calm, collaborative energy made everything feel easy and joyful.
💇 Hair Stylist: Tanya Woolacott
“It was so special having someone who’s been part of the family for years. She knew exactly what I wanted and created the most elegant, timeless style.”
💅 Makeup Artist: Hayley Clarke
“Hayley is so talented — she creates the most gorgeous, glowy looks and instantly puts you at ease. She brings such good energy on the morning of the wedding and makes you feel completely amazing.”
📷 Photographer: Sarah Simpson
“Sarah captured moments we didn’t even know were happening. That’s exactly what we hoped for — natural, emotional, and beautifully lit shots without feeling like we were being constantly photographed. She has the perfect eye for capturing real connection.”
🎥 Videographer: Sam Lance
“Sam and Sarah worked seamlessly together. Sam is calm, friendly and so professional — we hardly noticed he was filming, but the video he created blew us away. We’ll treasure it forever.”
🎷 Saxophonist: Leanna Plowright
“Adding Leanna was a last-minute decision and one of our best! She’s incredibly talented and brought such a fun, celebratory vibe to the drinks reception. Guests loved it.”
🎤 Singer: Felix Simpson
“Felix’s voice is phenomenal. He has this way of creating atmosphere that feels effortless. From the ceremony to the reception, he helped shape the day without ever stealing focus — truly one of a kind.”
👗 Bridalwear: La Crème, Norwich
“Lucy and Gill were amazing from the moment I walked in. They made me feel so comfortable and understood my style straight away. I didn’t feel overwhelmed at all — they made it fun, relaxed, and special. My dress (Essence of Australia) felt so me.”
🧵 Suits: Moss Bros
“Chris’s suit was from Moss Bros and it looked so sharp. We also hired both dads’ suits from there, which made it really easy to coordinate. The whole process was simple and stress-free.”
Final Reflections
“We simply had the most perfect day — it was even better than I ever thought it would be. Our day was filled with so much love from everyone involved!”
“Elms Barn really is such a special venue. Any problem you have, they are there to fix it and help make your wedding planning journey stress free! We would absolutely recommend any future couples to get married here.”
“Can we do it all again!?” – We would love to do it again with you!
✨ Featured Suppliers
Hair: Tanya Woolacott
Makeup: @hayleyclarkemakeup
Photography: @sarahsimpsonphotography
Videography: @samlancefilms
Saxophonist: @leannasax
Singer: @felixsimpsonmusic
Dress: @lacremebridal
Suits: @mossbros