AMBER AND JAMES: Real Elizabeth Kate bride Wearing Made With Love (MWL) Alfie Wedding Dress

There’s something truly magical about a love story that begins with kindness, and for our beautiful Elizabeth Kate Bride, that’s exactly how the journey began. What started as a rainy November night in 2019, a lost team, a gentleman who’d had one too many, and a moment of compassion, unexpectedly led to a life-changing message the next day. Six years later to the very date, she and James tied the knot at the breathtaking Hodsock Priory, surrounded by warm winter tones, soft romance, and an atmosphere filled with heartfelt joy.

From a surprise proposal on a windy Cornish cliff walk, to finding “the one” in a Made With Love Alfie gown at our boutique, this wedding is the perfect blend of emotion, elegance and authenticity. Today, we’re sharing her gorgeous real bride story, and the incredible journey that led her to Elizabeth Kate Bridal, her dream dress, and the most magical November celebration.

How did you meet?

1st November 2019 both James and I were on very separate work nights out. I somehow had lost my team between bars and as it was pouring it down with rain so I decided I’d head to the bus. On the way I noticed a gentleman fall over ( he had had 1 too many) so I decided to see if he needed help, we sat for a while and chatted about life till he felt a little better and I helped him into a taxi. Before leaving he asked me my name and the next day I got a Facebook message asking me to grab a drink to thank me for my kindness. 6 years to the day we got married.

Tell us about your proposal

July 2023 we decided to take a trip to Cornwall. What I didn’t know was James had a ring hidden in his back pocket all week. On the final day we decided to go for costal walk to lands end. During the walk James was trying to find a spot off of the rocky path to get on one knee. James does not like an audience for big moments so also needed a quiet place. At one point he pulled me off the path into an open vista saying “we should look over here” which I thought was odd as he isn’t one for scenery. As he started talking a couple decided to join us, it appeared they had decided this was the perfect spot for a photo shoot spoiling James plan. After standing there for several minutes awkwardly I suggested we keep walking and James dejected responded I guess so. As we approached the end of the path he finally said “this wasn’t how I wanted to do it, and I can’t kneel because of the rocks but will you marry me?” Opening up a ring box. In shock I asked if he was sure, which he hadn’t expected. Obviously I recovered and said yes.

What was your wedding budget We originally budgeted around £25,000 our actual was closer to £31,000.

When did you get married?

We got married at Hodsock Priory in Blyth in November 2025.

Where did your wedding take place?

Hodsock Priory. The most amazing venue. I couldnt recommend them more. The day was so smooth thanks to them, you can tell they have it down like clockwork. The food was amazing and I felt taken care of all day!

Tell us a little about the vibe or theme of your day?

The vibe of the day was winter warm , think burgundy's, soft pinks and accents of gold. We even encouraged our guests to dress in our palette. We leaned more towards a romantic/classic style wedding. (During the planning process the vibe and style really refined itself when the big decisions like my dress were made)

Tell us about the dress!

The dress I opted for the Made With Love Alfie wedding dress and a flower detail cathedral length veil.

How did you know it was ‘the one’?

I am a very nervous shopper and really hate trying clothes on as I slowly feel dejected and I leave not feeling great about myself. I especially hate shopping with my family, there is always so much pressure and I often feel judged or shouted over and like many plus size girls know you often walk into a shop and nothing fits. I met Holly at a Hodsock Priory open day over 2 years before my wedding and she over heard me mention that my wedding day was too far away for me to worry about it. That’s when Holly mentioned that the process can take so much longer than anticipated and that I should start looking sooner than later. I reached out and asked if I could possibly come in and try on some dresses with just Holly and Kim, no entourage, as it would mean I could get a sense of what I wanted before the opinions of everyone else started flooding in. I was so nervous for my first appointment but the team really did help make me feel comfortable and made the experience more fun than I thought it would be. We were able to try on different styles and brands helping me to narrow what I wanted. I also learned what you add to your Pinterest board doesn’t always look good on you and your vision for yourself can change. I had gone in thinking as a plus size person I would want something A-Lined or ball gown to hide my tummy and came out of that appointment sure a classier/simpler MWL style would be best for me. When I booked my family appointment I opted to go during the Made with Love trunk show as it was the brand I had liked the most. Alfie had not yet been released on the MWL website but had been a sneak peak sent exclusively to Elizabeth Kate. When I tried it on I really liked the simple elegance and the long train detail and knew it was the one. As expected my very opinionated entourage were not as sold but with the help of Kim and Holly everyone in the end agreed that it was my dress. My grandmother’ who held out the longest, was sold once she saw the cathedral length veil and loved the added drama it gave to the dress.

Anything else you’d love future EK brides to know?

A different challenge arose when after waiting a year for my dress to arrive I tried it on and it did not fit. In the year between my fitting and arrival I had lost 4 stone which meant the dress was several sizes too big. The minute I saw it I panicked as I know the tales of the industry and the common phrase “you can only take it in 2 inches”. The minute I voiced my worry Kim reassured me that wasn’t true. If I’m being honest over the next few fittings I had my doubts but what I have learned is to trust the process and trust the professionals as by the time I picked my dress up it fit perfectly and the little worries I had were gone. The team at Elizabeth Kate are amazing at making someone feel comfortable and really offer a personal experience.

What advice would you give to brides planning now?

• Once you’ve picked your dress the vision gets easier. I had bought several items before I picked my dress but once I had what I wanted changed, it really did help me to refine what I wanted and hone that vision.

• Between buying and delivery try not to pick yourself apart. I had 2 grainy photos and I would stare at them and doubt myself. Don’t do it!!

• Grab a small travel steamer and assign a bridesmaid steaming duty!

• Screw tradition - don’t want a bouquet, I had a wrist corsage , never eat cake, my doughnuts were yummy, sad you are missing bonfire night, bring bonfire night to you. Just because it’s what has been done doesn’t mean it’s what you need to do.

• Choose the right suppliers!!! My suppliers were marvellous and so organised and because of that I had no worries. I avoided micro managing them because if you choose the right professionals to support you, you can trust in them. Hence why I was able to give a couple of inspo pics, a budget and trust in their vision.

What was your favourite moment on the wedding day?

The boogie before the storm. To help get the nerves out before heading down the aisle my best friend and I decided to blast the pitbull and have a mini dance to shake out the nerves. It was a nice moment to just let go before the day truly started!

Share the love – list youre fave suppliers

I would highly recommend:

• Elizabeth Kate bridal - Obviously!

• Florist -Meadows and Mulberry Flowers (Karon is gorgeous and if you can let her just do her thing it will be amazing)

• Photographer - FlyOnTheWall photography (Adele was amazing from our first meeting and if you want someone to capture the joy of the day she is your lady)

• Musician- Brad Matthews (Brad learned several songs for our day and our family have raved about him since) Styling -KeithWoodsWedding Stylist (Bridget made sure I didn’t have to worry about my tables on the day) Doughnuts - Doughnotts (A nice alternative)

• Fireworks - 1stgalaxyfireworks ( A company that still delivered even on bonfire weekend)

From a chance meeting in the rain, to a heartfelt proposal overlooking the Cornish coastline, and finally a beautifully warm winter wedding at Hodsock Priory, this love story is one we’re honoured to have been part of.

Seeing Amber shine in her Made With Love Alfie wedding dress complete with cathedral veil and the perfect alterations, reminds us exactly why we do what we do.

If you’ve just started your bridal journey and want a boutique that feels warm, supportive, and truly personal, we would love to welcome you into Elizabeth Kate Bridal. Whether you’re nervous to try dresses, unsure where to begin, or simply want that magical “this is it” moment, we’re here to be your Fairy Dress Mothers.

Ready to find your dream dress? Book your private appointment today and let’s create your own once-in-a-lifetime moment. Book Your Appointment – Elizabeth Kate Bridal

What time of year is best for a winter wedding at Hodsock Priory?

A winter wedding at Hodsock Priory is ideal from late October through February, especially if you love rich, warm tones and romantic lighting.

What does the Made With Love Alfie dress look like?

Alfie is a sleek, modern, and timelessly elegant gown known for its clean lines, structured bodice, and dramatic train.

 Is Elizabeth Kate Bridal good for plus size brides?

Absolutely, our sample sizes range from size 8 to size 22 and everything in-between. And we’re known for our warm, supportive approach and for helping brides of all sizes find a dress that feels comfortable, confident, and magical.

Can a wedding dress be altered if I lose weight after ordering?

Yes. As Amber's story shows, our expert alterations team can transform fit issues and ensure your gown looks like it was made for you.

How do I choose the right wedding suppliers?

Amber’s advice is simple: choose experienced suppliers you can trust, communicate your vision, and allow them the creative freedom to do their best work.