Location: Cambridge, UK
Setting: Chapel and dining hall in historical university grounds
Wedding season: Summer
The number of guests: 75
How long did the couple plan the event: 9 months
Wedding theme/style: Elegant, classic wedding with modern and unconventional elements.
Nearly eight years ago, two young souls, Alexandra and Mark, embarked on a journey that would change their lives forever. Their paths crossed at the prestigious Cambridge University in the United Kingdom, where they were both on the brink of beginning their Master’s and PhD programs in Civil Engineering. Little did they know that this fateful meeting would start an incredible adventure.
The initial connection between Alexandra and Mark was unmistakable, but it was at a lively Halloween Party that the sparks truly flew. Dressed as Carl from the beloved movie “Up,” complete with balloons and a cane, Mark caught Alexandra’s eye.
Soon after, they embarked on a 2-day trip to Gothenburg, Sweden, sealing their fate as a couple. Since that momentous day, their love has taken them on a whirlwind journey, spanning 4 countries (the UK, Switzerland, Spain, and the US), 6 different homes, and ownership of 6 cars. Their current home is nestled in Austin, Texas.
Cambridge, the place where their love story began, was the natural choice for their wedding location. King’s College, with its breathtaking Chapel and historical university grounds, felt like home to them. In a unique twist, they aimed to make their wedding day feel like a warm, welcoming family gathering.
Alexandra’s wedding look was a stunning reflection of her love for fashion. She chose a non-traditional dress by Viktor and Rolf, featuring geometric designs and floral appliques. The Chapel’s long aisle inspired a cape-like addition to her attire, giving it a touch of college gown charm. Her Manolo Blahnik shoes, were a perfect complement to her short dress. A Simone Rocha purse added the finishing touch to her modern and feminine look.
From the bride: “Together with Farah Novias, we took inspiration from designs from Balenciaga and Dior from the 60s to design a cape that essentially looked like a kimono from the back or a big bow, all made from natural silk and with the flowers from the dress. A long dress from the back and a short skirt at the front: 2-in-1. Inspired by Viktor and Rolf’s collection, we also designed a headpiece in the shape of a half-moon covered with the flowers from the dress to go with a French twist (or a Kelly updo). I always knew I wanted Manolos (timeless elegance) for my shoes, which is also why I wanted a short dress. I wanted to show them! I also always knew I wanted the Manolos buckle to be my “something blue.” I knew the shoes before the dress”.
The first person to see Alexandra in her wedding attire was her father. Touching photographs of that moment captures the father’s delight and his tender love for his daughter. In these snapshots, words become superfluous as all emotions are conveyed through their gazes and embraces. It’s a moment when a father witnesses his little girl transform into a beautiful bride, and his heart swells with pride and joy.
Their wedding day was filled with traditions, including a Catalan tradition where the groom selects a messenger to present the bride’s bouquet along with a poem or prose. Mark chose “A Red, Red Rose” by Robert Burns. On the day, Alex also asked her father to hand Mark an embroidered handkerchief (which said Today and Always) and had a small blue bow down to it (a little something blue for him as well). She also lent him a gold coin (as a symbol of the 13 coins of Arras, a Spanish symbol of prosperity).
On the groom’s side, a classic black tuxedo paired with black velvet Gucci loafers showcased his distinct sense of style.
“However, on his day-to-day, he almost exclusively shops at charity shops, so he wanted everything else to be from there, which took us several months to assemble (Gieves & Hawkes shirt, buttons, bow tie, a 1950s cumberbund). He did try to find a tuxedo and even my wedding dress from charity, but despite an extensive search, we sadly didn’t find anything appropriate!” recalls Alexandra.
The couple’s wedding day was truly unique, with King’s College Chapel serving as the backdrop for their ceremony. The Dean, Prof Rev Stephen Cherry, officiated their union in a moment that will forever hold a special place in their hearts.
“We have a picture walking out of the Chapel through its back door (which is only open on extraordinary occasions), taking our first steps as husband and wife. The sun was shining. Those first steps facing the wildflower meadow and the river will forever stay in our hearts.”
With their skilled artistry, Zach&Grace transformed wedding photographs into a narrative. This visual tale not only showcased the splendor of the location but also preserved the very heart and soul of this beautiful wedding. Every frame seemed to resonate with the emotions, from Alexandra’s enchanting elegance to the profound love in Mark’s eyes.
Guests gathered by the banks of the River Cam for some casual conversations and live music before heading to the wedding reception. This moment provided the perfect opportunity for everyone to unwind and share in the excitement of the festivities. The splendid view of the river created a unique ambiance, adding a touch of magic and enchantment to this special day.
“We can’t say enough about Zach&Grace, our wedding photographers with their fabulous fashion-esque style. Their ability to capture the essence of our day while being completely unobtrusive was remarkable and exactly what we were looking for. Every photograph in our collection is a work of art, reflecting the emotions and joy of the day. Their talent transformed our wedding day into a visual masterpiece, and we’re forever grateful to Zach&Grace for the memories they’ve given us.“
The Hall, adorned with symmetrical arrangements of white flowers and candelabras, provided a stunning setting for their reception. Live music played throughout the day, showcasing local talent from Cambridge.
“We wanted a very symmetrical look, so we had two long imperial tables aligned with the two entrance doors, and the band was at the end, in front of the Hall’s tapestry (which made it look like they were part of a painting). Willow and Wolf did a fantastic job with the flower arrangements. We also asked for the chairs to be placed at a 45-degree angle, facing our guests as they arrived. When I sat down, it just felt like a dinner with friends and family.”
Their stationery, designed by a close friend Jasmin Moore, featured drawings of King’s College Chapel and its surroundings, creating a unique connection to the venue.
One of the most touching and emotional moments occurred when congratulations were extended to the newlyweds. When Mark delivered his speech, Alexandra couldn’t hold back her tears.
Drawing inspiration from their modern and unconventional personalities, they incorporated unique elements like a stack of metal cubes for the wedding cake.
And as Alexandra took the dance floor to share a dance with her father, the entire atmosphere filled with incredible tenderness and anticipation. The guests’ eyes were fixed on this poignant scene as father and daughter shared this indescribable moment, a whirlwind of emotions.
The lovebirds stepped onto the dance floor for their first dance as a married couple. The world around them seemed to fade into the background, leaving only the two bathed in the gentle glow of the Hall’s romantic lighting. It was a moment that captured the essence of romance, a dance that whispered promises of endless love and cherished moments.
From the couple: “We wanted live music for the entire day and preferred it to be entirely local as Cambridge has an abundance of talent. For the evening, we had an 11-piece jazz band, all of whom were members of the Cambridge University Jazz Orchestra. They put up an outstanding performance that we thoroughly enjoyed.”
Alexandra and Mark’s love story is a testament to the power of destiny and the magic of finding a soulmate. Their wedding at King’s College in Cambridge was a reflection of their unique personalities and a celebration of their love, surrounded by cherished family and friends. It was a day filled with love, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Advice from the couple:
• It is complex. I would say make it however you want it to be. Try not to think of other people too much.
PHOTOGRAPHERS Zach&Grace | VENUES Reception: King’s College, Ceremony: King’s College Chapel | FLORIST Willow and Wolf | MAKEUP Elevate Bridal | HAIR Jimena | BRIDAL DRESS Viktor & Rolf | WEDDING SHOES Manolo Blahnik | CATERING King’s College Catering | CAKE Sassa’s Bespoke Cakes | MUSIC BAND Soft Crunchy Landing | TUXEDO & GROOM’S SHOES Cucci | ENGAGEMENT RING Niessing | STATIONERY Jasmin Moore Designs | DRINKS RECEPTION & DINNER MUSICIAN Oliver Cope | WEDDING BANDS Chopard, Family ring
