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This month’s bride enjoyed a surprise proposition left on her windscreen, and very nearly found herself with an unusual car on her wedding day... still, the wheels were set in motion for a very happy marriage indeed!
When/how did you first meet?
Bride's View: We first met on a night out in town. I remember thinking he looked familiar and thought he was good looking. It was only once we started talking that he said he lived opposite my Mum and I realised where I recognised his face from. On an evening visit to my Mum I went to get into my car and saw a rose with his number left on my car... I rang and it all started from there!
When in the relationship did he 'pop the question?' How did he propose?
James proposed in 2008 on a holiday to Cyprus. I was seven months pregnant at the time. James had planned the last night to be really romantic - a nice stroll on the beach with the sunset behind us - but it happened to be the only night which was overcast!
He tried later on after a meal by suggesting another stroll down a beach near our apartment but I was cold and so wanted to go back and get my jacket... James went off in a huff as he felt I had ruined his plan! I went back to our apartment and was getting ready for bed when there was a knock on the door and James on one knee... I was ecstatic!
What were the first things you decided upon?
Our wedding planning began when I found my perfect dress - the most important element! We knew we wanted a church service and as the local parish church is only a mile from home it was quickly decided upon as the venue for the ceremony. We then had a look at a few venues but decided on a beautiful building next to the Cathedral called The Old Palace. It was everything we could have hoped for; and had only just reopened following a full renovation, so we were one of the first couples to use it!
Any differing ideas about how your big day should be?
The only area in which we differed was my desire to have a videographer; James didn't see the point. I decided on it close to the wedding and I have to say we were both pleased we had one, as it was so nice to see the moments you missed or forgot on the day
Was planning your big day fraught or enjoyable? Did you both contribute ideas with equal enthusiasm?
Both; it became fraught at times but overall it was enjoyable to see it all coming together. We contributed in different areas - James's main areas of contribution were the venue, photographer and the invitations as we designed and made. I dealt with the rest!
How did it feel to walk down the aisle and take your vows?
I felt so emotional but it was so nice to see James, my family and friends all smiling at me as I walked down the aisle. I was emotional on many occasions throughout the ceremony.
At one point I didn't think I would be able to finish my vows. The Vicar was great and brought unexpected humour to the ceremony.
Who did you choose for attendants and why?
Bride's View: I had three bridesmaids; Diana, Hannah and Nina. Diana I have known since we were 16 and at college together; Hannah and Nina I met at work. All three have been such great friends, I have shared so much in my life with these girls. I couldn't think of anyone better to help me with my special day.
Groom's View: I actually had two best men, Ben & Eddie. I do not have a 'best friend' as such and generally see both of them together. They are both such good friends that I could never choose between them. I figured that between them they could carry each other through the day and it would split the responsibility... as it was, Ben carried Eddie through the day as Eddie flew round like a headless chicken!
What made you choose your dress, and can you describe it?
As soon as I put my dress on I knew it was the one; I loved it and felt amazing in it. It was strapless with a panel of lace that ran across the bust. It was corset style at the top with beading on it. The bottom had a lot of fullness which had lace over the top and beading with a nice train. It had a lace choker for the neck in the same material.
Where was your reception held?
The reception was held at The Old Palace in Lincoln. This was the former Old Bishop's Palace and is situated next to the Cathedral. It has stunning views overlooking both Lincoln and the Cathedral, which made it a fabulous venue. It's a Georgian building with all the old character kept. As it had been recently refurbished, the décor was new and the building looked fresh.
Did you have a honeymoon? If so where, and most importantly, did you enjoy it?
We were married on the Saturday and flew to Mauritius on the Monday. James's mum had agreed to have our son for the week so we got a chance to begin married life being waited on hand and foot and were able to focus purely on ourselves! The place was fantastic, the weather perfect and the service as good as we have ever experienced. We agreed that we were both looking forward to seeing our son Jaydon and that our next holiday would be a family one!
Who would you particularly recommend?
We would definitely recommend The Old Palace as an ideal venue for those looking for the perfect setting for their wedding reception. Alex - the wedding coordinator - was exceptionally well organised and made the process as straightforward and hassle-free as possible. The building and grounds are like nothing else in the Lincoln area.
Our photographer Reg Moore deserves his praise too... from our first meeting to the presentation of our final album, he was eager to ensure our day ran perfectly and our album met our highest expectations. James did not want the traditional wedding photos so often seen, nor did he want our guests standing around for hours whilst numerous formal shots were taken. Reg ensured that the majority of the photos were of a contemporary nature, capturing the natural events of our dream day.
Our florist Flowers by Design in Nettleham were excellent and we were so pleased with the quality and decoration. Pauline from Magic Moments Weddings provided us with the chair covers and sashes which looked extremely elegant and she also made an amazing arrangement for the centrepieces.
Belle & Bouquet of Wellingore supplied my wedding dress; they were professional and helpful and assisted me in choosing the perfect dress. Finally, QL Discos provided us good entertainment and were happy to assist with any of our requirements.
How are you finding married life?
Groom's View: I must be honest and say that I didn't think it would feel very different. As with many couples today, we 'lived in sin' for four years so married life seems a continuation rather than a revelation! That said, I can now enjoy calling her my wife rather than the more awkward 'partner'!


Bride's Name: Donna Smith.
Groom's Name: James Espin.
Ceremony held at: St Nicholas' Church, Newport, Lincoln.
Reception held at: The Old Palace, Lincoln.
Best Men: Ben Ryan & Edward Marriott.
Bridesmaids: Hannah Bradley, Nina Marshall & Diana Lawrence.
Bride's Parent: Anne Smith.
Groom's Parent: Christon Espin.
Images: Reg Moore; 07866 533220, www.regmoore.com.