Kelly & Dave's Blended Family Wedding

Ten Years, Four Children, One Beautiful Family

Kelly and Dave's journey began around ten years ago, after meeting through mutual friends. Since then, they've built a life together, bringing together their three children from previous relationships before welcoming a child of their own.

When Dave proposed during a family holiday in the Costa del Sol, it couldn't have been more perfect. Surrounded by all four of their children, with the sun setting over the sea, it was a moment they'll treasure forever. One of the most touching parts of the proposal came before Kelly had even said yes, as Dave asked her son, Finley, for permission to marry his mum.

Choosing What Mattered Most

When it came to planning their wedding, the couple quickly realised that a traditional celebration simply wasn't for them.

"Keeping the numbers down was a huge priority to us. We didn't want aunts and uncles who we only see every few years there. We wanted those closest to us to be part of our special day."

They dreamed of a relaxed day without rigid timelines or formalities — a wedding where everyone could simply enjoy spending time together.

Finding Tree Top Escape

Finding Tree Top Escape made that vision a reality.

"It was like love at first sight, but with a venue. It ticked all our boxes. We knew as soon as we saw it that it was the place for us."

Surrounded by peaceful woodland and stunning scenery, Tree Top Escape offered exactly the intimate atmosphere they had been searching for.

Planning the day itself proved surprisingly straightforward.

"We pretty much agreed on everything we wanted. Speaking with all our chosen suppliers was super easy."

Looking back, there's only one thing they would change.

"The only thing we wished we'd done was have it videoed."

A Wedding Day Built by Family

From the very beginning, their wedding day was designed to celebrate the family they had created together.

The morning began with one of those wonderfully unique moments that perfectly sums up their relationship — Kelly styling Dave's hair before the ceremony, carefully making sure he didn't catch sight of her wedding dress.

Every one of their children played an important role throughout the ceremony. Both of their sons presented the wedding rings, Dave's son proudly stood as Best Man, while Kelly's eldest son fulfilled one of her lifelong dreams by walking her down the aisle.

"Having my 13-year-old son walk me down the aisle, holding my hand and leading me to marry the man who makes me happy, looks after me and makes me feel safe, was the best moment for me. My two favourite guys."

Dave's daughter and their youngest daughter made beautiful bridesmaids, leading the way into The Nest, while even their beloved dog, Farley, had an important role as the family's very own Groomsdog.

For Dave, there was one unforgettable moment.

"Seeing Kelly walk into The Nest and seeing her look amazing in her dress for the first time."

A Relaxed Celebration Filled with Personal Touches

After becoming husband and wife, guests enjoyed a relaxed afternoon filled with conversation, laughter and exceptional food. David Rees from Frisky Pheasant served an incredible grazing table, homemade pizzas and cocktails, while Marcia Shapland's beautiful flowers, Mel Avery's hair and make-up, Lizzie Vallance's stunning cake and Chris Catullo's photography all helped create a day to remember.

Throughout the venue, Kelly and Dave filled the spaces with thoughtful personal touches that celebrated their journey together. Photographs documenting their family story adorned the Meadow Room, while guests were invited to capture their own memories using a Polaroid camera and guest book.

Garden games kept everyone entertained outdoors, and younger guests were delighted with personalised goodie bags, while handmade signs, cocktail stirrers and bubbles added even more personality to the day.

One of the biggest compliments they could give Tree Top Escape was how welcoming the team were to those extra touches.

"Tree Top Escape were very good about allowing us to bring our own little touches to the Meadow Room."

A Moment of Unexpected Comedy

Of course, no family wedding would be complete without a little unexpected comedy. As Kelly and Dave shared their first kiss as husband and wife, their young niece broke the silence perfectly by loudly announcing... "Ewww!"

It's those spontaneous moments that often become the memories everyone treasures most.

Quiet Moments by the Lake

Away from the celebrations, the couple also found time to enjoy a few quiet moments together during their portraits by the lakes.

"We've both agreed that when it was just us having our photos taken down by the lakes was one of our favourite moments."

Kelly & Dave's Advice for Future Couples

Looking back on their day, Kelly and Dave's advice for future couples is refreshingly simple.

"Don't overthink it, don't worry, just go with the flow. It's easy to get caught up and stressed, but it's actually simpler than you think."

The Suppliers Who Brought Everything Together

Their wedding is a beautiful reminder that the most meaningful celebrations aren't about guest numbers or following traditions. They're about creating a day that feels completely authentic — a day filled with the people who matter most, plenty of laughter, heartfelt moments, and memories that will last a lifetime.

If you're dreaming of an intimate wedding that puts family front and centre, get in touch with our team — we'd love to help you create a day that's every bit as personal as Kelly and Dave's.