Our Gorgeous Chilham Bride Helen at The Gardens, Yalding

A heartfelt wedding filled with family, laughter, personal touches and the dress of dreams.

We adore celebrating our Chilham Brides, and today we’re so excited to share Helen’s beautiful love story. From the emotional details to the unexpected sunshine, every part of her wedding day was a true reflection of her and Matt’s personalities. With so many thoughtful touches woven throughout, it was a day filled with meaning, joy, and memories that will last a lifetime.

On 26th May 2025, Helen and Matt tied the knot at The Gardens in Yalding, Kent – a celebration filled with love, laughter, raving, rain, sunshine and just the right amount of chaos.

The ceremony itself was nothing short of magical. The British weather tried its best to interrupt, but Helen was determined to walk down the long aisle outdoors. With her dad by her side, and her bridal party and mum following behind, they all braved the sudden downpour together.

Guests were safely tucked under umbrellas and blankets while Matt and his groomsmen waited under the gazebo. And then, in the most perfect twist of timing, as soon as Helen reached Matt, the rain stopped and the sun broke through. It was a moment everyone will remember forever.

What made the day so special were all the personal touches woven throughout. Helen carried a bouquet with delicate peonies in honour of a close friend who had sadly passed away from breast cancer, ensuring her memory was part of the celebration. Her bouquet also held her grandmother’s necklace, chosen as her ‘something old’ and a sentimental reminder of family ties.

During the ceremony, Helen’s brother read out a poem he had written about the couple’s journey together, making the moment even more personal and emotional. It was particularly moving, as he and his wife had flown all the way from Argentina- reuniting with family after five long years apart.

Helen’s wedding dress carried its own unique story too. On the oversized statement bow at the back, she had their initials embroidered by Nicola- The Wedding Dress Surgeon, a beautifully subtle yet deeply meaningful detail.

The couple also wanted their guests to take home a little piece of their love for the outdoors, so each place setting included hessian bags of wildflower seeds – a nod to Matt’s passion for gardening.

Family and friends poured their creativity into the celebration as well. Helen and her mum worked together to create a photo rail of polaroid memories from their relationship so far.

The brides mum also hand-painted the beautiful artwork used on their welcome board and ‘The Adrians’ sign, later brought to life with the finishing touches from Lauren at Floss Creations.

Lauren also crafted unique plant pot place settings, complete with wooden labels, which perfectly tied in with the couple’s rustic garden theme.

Music filled the day thanks to their talented neighbours, who played violin and piano during the reception, creating the most joyful atmosphere. And as a nod to Matt’s roots as a pumpkin farmer, Helen’s friend crocheted a pair of “Matt & Helen” pumpkins for the cake table– a wonderfully quirky, personal addition that everyone adored.

The Dress

For her bridal look, Helen chose the Alysia gown by Love Story London – a luxurious Mikado dress with a structured bodice, clean contemporary lines, and that unforgettable statement bow at the back.

With the help of Nicola from The Wedding Dress Surgeon in Maidstone, Helen made the gown her own, working closely together to personalise every detail until it was truly one of a kind. The embroidered initials on the bow were the perfect finishing touch. Helen looked exquisite.

Helen’s Bridal Boutique Experience

Here’s what Helen shared about her journey with us:

“I had such a lovely experience at Chilham Bridal. The shop is stunning and Carly made me feel so relaxed and in safe hands from the beginning. I’d been to other boutiques and hadn’t had a good experience, but as soon as I stepped into Chilham Bridal, I knew my dress was in there somewhere- and she was.”

“Carly went above and beyond, even though sensitive hurdles with alterations, and I honestly cannot thank her enough. I’d recommend Chilham Bridal to anyone- I’m so glad I found the dress of my dreams here.”

Congratulations to the new Mr & Mrs Adrian – we wish you both a lifetime of happiness together. Thank you, Helen, for trusting us with your bridal journey and for letting us share a glimpse of your magical day.

With love,
The Chilham Bridal Team xx

Dream Team of Suppliers

Wedding Dress: https://chilhambridal.co.uk/
Dress Designer: https://lovestorylondon.com/
Dress Alterations: https://www.theweddingdresssurgeon.co.uk/
Wedding Venue: https://www.thegardens.co.uk/
Photography: https://tomphotos.co.uk/
Second Photographer: https://nnastiaphotography.com/
Flowers: https://www.grahamgreener.com/
Hair: https://www.instagram.com/idobridalhaircg/
Make-up: https://mbcmakeupacademy.com/
Cake: https://www.crumbscakesbrownies.co.uk/
Place Settings & Signage: https://www.instagram.com/floss__creations/
Other Signage: https://omicronrepro.co.uk/
360 Photobooth: https://sosentertainment.party/