At WedVibes, we’re always drawn to the stories behind the aesthetics—the vision boards, voice notes, and late-night Pinterest scrolls that quietly shape iconic wedding moments. So, we did what we do best: reached out to real brides who are planning weddings their way. From spontaneous proposals to guest lists made on Google Docs, these brides are rewriting the rules and curating celebrations that feel less like tradition and more like self-expression.
In this series, they open up about the moodboards they can’t stop tweaking, the TikTok trends they’re into, and the vendors who just get it. Expect real love stories, real planning highs (and lows), and plenty of inspiration for your own “main character” moment.
Meet The Couple
Gabrielle and Matthew live in Highgate, North London, with their dog Andy. Matthew is a model, and Gabrielle works in Media for BuzzFeed, doing brand partnerships. They love playing Tennis together, cooking, and taking Andy on walks.
How did you meet?
We met on the app Raya – typical 21st-century romance. However, we Facetimed for 6 hours on the first day, and the next day, we met in person Matthew just walked up and kissed me, and I basically moved into his place that day and never left.
The Proposal
We went for Pizza at Crisp in Hammersmith (my fave food) with our dog Andy – we then went to the Hammersmith bridge, where he was originally going to propose, but was so scared the ring would fall in the river. So a very nervous Matthew took me to the riverside near the pubs and proposed there. It then absolutely poured with rain after a glimmer of sun during the proposal so we ran into a pub soaking wet and got some drinks – it felt like a movie!
The Wedding Vision
1. When and where is your wedding taking place?
Our wedding will be at the end of June in London – Chelsea Town Hall, Ida restaurant in Queen’s Park, and then a house party at our home in London.
2. Describe your wedding in 3 words.
Chic, Italian-Inspired, Timeless
3. What are three non-negotiable elements for your big day?
Delicious Food, great music, and most importantly, to have fun!
Planning Process
1. What’s been the highlight of your planning process so far?
Molly, my wedding planner Sage and Settle, has been a godsend. She’s made everything so smooth and wonderful, I couldn’t do it without her.
2. What’s surprised you most about wedding planning?
I’m surprisingly chill and not a bridezilla.
3. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone just starting their planning journey?
Do what feels right for you – it’s your day, not everyone else’s, whether that’s having a big or small wedding, it should be just right for you.
Photo: Aldry Joel Photo, Pinterest, Katarina Fedora, Pinterest, Pinterest, Pinterest
