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Nikki and Dave chose one of Hampshire’s most stunning wedding venues, Rivervale Barn © Senior Mac Photography

Sunset skies

Nikki and Dave knew exactly what they wanted when it came to their wedding day. A relaxed yet fun-filled atmosphere was top priority along with a contemporary and beautiful wedding venue.

Contemporary charm

One thing Nikki and Dave loved about Rivervale Barn was that it had all the character of a traditional barn venue but of a contemporary style, as opposed to rustic. The Ceremony Barn and pretty gardens impressed the couple too, as did the Events Team that would take care of them from start to finish.

“The venue was light and airy with beautiful windows that filled the rooms with natural light. The whole team were friendly and willing to go above and beyond to make sure the day was special to us.”

Cultural designs

To reflect Nikki’s African heritage, the pair styled the barn with cultural accents and African design in mind. The tables were also named after African animals and the wedding flowers were a collection of vibrant African sunset colours – which also tied in with the couple’s autumnal wedding date in late September.

Made for the occasion

Keen to add as many personal touches as possible, Nikki decided on a custom-made wedding dress, designed just for her special day. The final gown was strapless, with a ruched bodice, lace skirt and buttons down the back. She accessorised with a cathedral-length veil with subtle sparkle.

Dave tied his attire to the vibrant colour palette of the day and teamed his grey tails with an ivory waistcoat and burgundy cravat. Nikki’s three bridesmaids also wore burgundy – complementing the overall theme of the day and the season.

Tying the knot

On the day of the wedding, Nikki took advantage of the special perks at Rivervale and got ready with her bridesmaids at the venue.

“All I had to do was get dressed in the cottage and then pop over to the barn to get married!”

Superhero surprise

It wasn’t long after the ceremony before the real party started. As soon as the formal wedding photographs had been taken, Dave and his best men unbuttoned their shirts to reveal superhero t-shirt under their suits.

“This, along with our best man’s speech, was hilarious – definitely one of the many comedy moments of the day!”

Dinner and dancing

A delicious wedding breakfast followed the couple’s wedding reception and the pair opted for a sumptuous three-course menu. The first course was a pork spring roll starter, followed by a herb-crusted lamb main and a trio of desserts to finish.

When the pair weren’t tucking into their meals they were up on the dance floor with all their family and friends. After starting off the night with a first dance to Running, by James Bay, it wasn’t long before the rest of their wedding party joined them on the dance floor.

“We loved everything about the day. Guests had fun and were well fed and Dave and I managed to have a few moments together throughout the day – it was perfect.”

Want to find out about holding your wedding at Rivervale Barn? Give the friendly events team a call on 01252 413232.

Nikki and Dave's real life wedding at Rivervale Barn