Their March wedding proves that a shorter timeline doesn't mean compromising on magic. With a laid-back vision, a stunning setting and the right support around them, Sarah and Chris created a day that felt completely their own. If you've ever wondered whether it's possible to get married quickly without the stress, their story is the perfect answer.
A Love Story 25 Years in the Making
Sarah and Chris have been together for over 25 years, sharing adventures, supporting each other through life's highs and lows, and always making one another laugh. In 2024, Chris finally got down on one knee while the couple were in Bruges, Belgium — a romantic proposal that marked the start of this next chapter together.
With such a long and meaningful history already behind them, they knew exactly the kind of wedding they wanted.
Why They Chose an Intimate Wedding
From the beginning, Sarah and Chris always imagined an intimate wedding rather than a large traditional affair. Although they briefly considered a registry office, they soon realised they wanted something more personal and memorable.
While searching for elopement weddings in North Devon, Sarah discovered Tree Top Escape — and it quickly became clear they had found somewhere special.
Falling in Love with Tree Top Escape
It was the scenery, the setting and the flexibility of the venue that first drew them in.
The photographs and reviews immediately stood out, but what truly made Tree Top Escape feel right was the freedom to personalise their day and create something unique to them. For a March wedding, the weather can always be a consideration, so they loved knowing there were beautiful options available whatever the forecast.
They were also thrilled by the relaxed approach to drinks, with the ability to bring along their own favourites without paying corkage — a lovely bonus that made the day feel even more personal.
Planning a Wedding in Just 5 Weeks
Planning a wedding in five weeks might sound overwhelming, but for Sarah and Chris, the process felt far more manageable thanks to the support they received from the very beginning.
After their first conversation with Bob, they were immediately put at ease by his friendly and helpful approach. Their wedding coordinator, Nicola, then became an invaluable part of the journey.
Sarah and Chris shared how communicative, calm and supportive Nicola was throughout, always on hand with ideas, reassurance and practical help. With such a short lead-in time, having someone there to ease the pressure and help pick up any pieces made all the difference.
A Relaxed Wedding Day Filled with Laughter
Sarah and Chris always wanted their wedding to feel easy, warm and relaxed — and that is exactly how their day unfolded.
They began the morning with bubbles and bacon sandwiches alongside their daughter and son-in-law, soaking up the anticipation and enjoying every part of the build-up. With a 3pm ceremony, there was no rush, just time to settle into the excitement of the day.
Nicola was there to make sure everything ran smoothly, allowing them to fully enjoy each moment. One of the highlights was being able to choose their own playlist, which provided the soundtrack to the celebration and made the day feel even more personal.
Thoughtful Details That Made the Day Their Own
Sarah and Chris added simple but meaningful touches to make the Nest feel special. They decorated the space with a floral ring, their initials, and small vases of flowers, creating an elegant and intimate setting without losing the relaxed feel they wanted.
They also embraced the beauty of the outdoors, heading off around the grounds in their now much-loved "wedding wellies" for photos by the lake — a perfect detail for a March wedding in the Devon countryside.
And then there was Olaf, their very special guest, adding even more personality and joy to a day already full of memorable moments.
The Most Special Moments
When asked what stood out most, Sarah and Chris found it hard to choose just one moment.
Of course, being announced as Mr and Mrs Leonard was unforgettable. But there were so many smaller moments woven through the day that made it just as special: Sarah walking across the bridge from the Tree House to the Nest, standing on the Nest balcony listening to nothing but the wildlife, and the constant laughter shared by everyone there.
It was a day filled with genuine happiness, simplicity and connection — exactly what they had hoped for.
Their Wonderful Suppliers
Sarah and Chris were supported by a brilliant team of suppliers who helped bring their vision to life:
Hannah at Brighteye Beauty
Dan Tugwell at Nomad Dining
Jim Wileman Photography
Their Advice to Other Couples
Sarah and Chris's advice is beautifully simple:
"Make it about the two of you. Everyone else is just decoration."
It's a wonderful reminder that the most memorable weddings are the ones that feel personal, heartfelt and true to the couple at the centre of it all.
A Beautiful Reminder That Less Time Can Still Mean More Meaning
Sarah and Chris's wedding is proof that you don't need months and months of planning to create something extraordinary. With a clear sense of what mattered, a stunning setting, and the right people around them, they created a wedding day that felt joyful, relaxed and deeply personal.
Their celebration at Tree Top Escape was full of love, laughter, nature and meaningful moments — the kind of wedding that stays with you long after the day itself is over.
If their story has inspired you, find out more about how to get married quickly, explore our intimate wedding venue, or get in touch — we'd love to help you create something just as special.
