Inspiration

This gothic wedding is beautifully styled infusing the couples Irish heritage and their love for everything winter. Foraged evergreen foliage added a touch of wild nature to the day, whilst the cosy candlelight and open fires made a haven inside on the dark November night. The Pilgrim's Rest played host this celebration, found next to Battle Abbey, with witch’s symbols engraved on the venue’s window ledges and the tales of spirits accentuated by the haunting sounds of the Gaelic Uillean pipes. Keeping all the suppliers as local as possible this bride and groom made the most of East Sussex is a creative place and everyone executed their vision and ethos perfectly.

WHAT MADE OUR DAY UNIQUE

"It was important for us to incorporate our Irish heritage and Gothic taste with a love of history at a 15th-century venue in an historic location. Decorated with locally foraged foliage, the haunting sounds of the Gaelic Uillean pipes, the candlelight and open fires brought warmth to the November day and night. There were witches symbols and tales of spirits too that were incorporated into the overall theme. We wanted to recreate that sense of refuge and comfort the pilgrims of the past would have felt when visiting Battle Abbey, next to the venue." - Clare & Barry

Gothic Wedding

The Fox’s Lament was played as the bride entered in her personally designed and locally made unique dress at this gothic wedding. Tara Deighton carefully created something beautiful, a true piece of fine art with a cobweb-like train, corseted waist, and long sleeves. The bride teamed her silver-grey dress with a floral headpiece designed to look vintage with muted tones and a long veil incorporating hand-stitched symbols inspired by the carvings in the venue’s timber frames. These embroidered decorations on the veil also included a single pearl from the brides Great Grandmother’s necklace a perfect touch to create a very meaningful dress.

INSPIRATION & STYLING

"We wanted the day to be informal, intimate and cosy. A small venue means we can remove all formalities and have everyone eat, drink and dance together without strict arrangements. The dinner was designed as a seated sharing feast with a rich winter-themed menu by candlelight. The fires burned bright as the wine was poured and laughter rang out throughout ancient rooms. With the cold dark night outside our guests and new life as a married couple began in a place of warmth and joy. " - Clare & Barry

This couple definitely put their own stamp on things and ensured that the celebration truly represented them, creating a beautifully intimate and cosy celebration full of gothic styling to fit their vision perfectly. Whilst planning your dream day be sure to check out our handpicked supplier directory 'The List', to search for everything from entertainment to a dress designer.

Olivia Smith

Written by Olivia Smith

Venue: The Pilgrim's Rest | Bridal Designer: Tara Deighton Atelier | Bridesmaid Dresses: Studio by Preen | Grooms Suit: Marc Darcy | Fashion Accessories : The Vampire's Wife | Shoes: Roland Cartier | Food: Kitchen of Kent | Drink: K Bar Limited | Cakes: Bunston Bakes | Florist: Dave and Bo | Hair Stylist: Liz Bower | Makeup Artist: Harriet Rainbow | Stationery: Lynda Loves | Entertainment : Dean Kestrel | Stylist/Planner: Relics on Sea

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