As royal wedding fever grips the country one bride to be at Goodwood is celebrating Prince William and Kate Middleton’s choice of April 29 for their big day.
Goodwood Events Team Leader Gemma Partridge and her fiancé Pieter Brown booked their wedding at Goodwood House in July, four months before the royal betrothal was announced.
“My friends and family were worried that I would be upset that the royal wedding would be on the same day as ours, and that it would steal our thunder,” says Gemma.
“But in fact I was thrilled and buzzing with excitement when the news came through. It will make our day extra special because it will become an historical occasion."
“You never know, in 50 years time when the royal couple celebrate their anniversary with a garden party at Buckingham Palace, we might be invited along with other couples who married on the same day.”
Gemma and Pieter chose April 29 so their guests could enjoy a long weekend after the wedding, with the May Bank Holiday on the Monday. Now there’s a bonus; they get an extra day off.
“We looked at numerous venues but nothing compared to Goodwood House for our dream wedding.”
Gemma has worked at Goodwood for three years, and has plenty of experience of planning weddings for other people. So she knew exactly what she wanted for her own. But she is keeping the details under wraps.
“I have been involved with organising so many weddings, but it is very different being on the other side, and to have to make the decisions for your own wedding.”
Gemma has promised her husband-to-be that on their big day she will hand over the organising to one of her colleagues to ensure the smooth running of the occasion.
The wedding ceremony will be in the Long Hall of Goodwood House, where guests will be able to see the stunning Canaletto’s, followed by a reception in the other glorious rooms of the House. Gemma will be busy getting ready for her big day when the royal wedding is being broadcast to the nation, but she plans to have the television on in the background to keep an eye on the ceremony at Westminster Abbey.
In keeping with the Goodwood theme Pieter and his best man are planning to arrive for the ceremony in a Woody, while his bride is opting for a more traditional mode of transport.
If you would like to book your wedding at Goodwood House please call the Estate Sales Team on 01243 775537.
Image credit: Barrie Downie