Laura & Matt | The bride wore: Jenny Packham

To put it simply, there’s something incredibly special about a wedding day. Even if the couple tying the knot are strangers, and you’re merely walking past, I’d put money on you stopping to watch the flood of guests appear from the Church doors, followed swiftly by the bride and groom in a cloud of confetti. So, when the wedding in question is your best friend’s (and, let’s face it, your therapist you pay for with cocktails), the magic of the day is somewhat otherworldly…

Matt and Laura Archibald tied the knot at Cripps Barn, an 18th century stone building enveloped in the Cotswold countryside. Rolling hills and charming meadows were the backdrop for their romantic, rustic celebration, while inside guests were invited to drink from vintage champagne saucers, delight in the leafy, botanical creations of local florists, Go Wild Flowers – that wound their way whimsically around the barn’s rustic beams – and experience an ambience that glittered with love and friendship. All, beautifully captured by photographer Sarah-Jane Ethan’s creative eye.

…and the dress?

Being the true friend, partner in crime and bridal enthusiast that I am, I of course provided my services when it came to the dress hunt. Exploring options together (and keeping the bride’s penchant for embellishment in mind…she’s a bit of a magpie) there was really only one designer for the job: Jenny Packham. Having worn one of the British designer’s bridal gowns for my own wedding, it seemed rather fitting that Laura found her own dress hanging on the elegant rails in the label’s Flagship London store. The first appointment was like witnessing a moth lured by a flame. It was definitely fate.