REAL WEDDING: Anna and John's vintage afternoon tea

Vintage afternoon tea, eclectic tea cups, a live artist, BBQ food, card readings and a silent disco. This is one hell of a wedding! Anna and John were determined to have a fun, relaxed wedding which reflected their personalities. Ultimately, a wedding is all about the union of two people who love each other, and want to throw a bit of a party to celebrate it. And what do we remember about parties? The table cloths? The appetizers? Nah, it's all about the fun we have! And judging by the silent disco photos (see below) everyone had a blast! Here's Anna to tell you a bit about it herslef. "John and I met at University over 10 years ago down in Eastbourne, so it was lovely that we were able to celebrate our big day so close to where we first met. Birling Manor was the first venue we looked at and we just fell in love with its character and the flexibility from the owner. We could do exactly as we wanted which was great. We have always wanted a fairly laid back wedding and that's why we opted for afternoon tea in the marquee. Months prior to the big day, my parents would spend weekends searching for crockery in second hand shops as we wanted our afternoon to have a vintage feel...it was perfect. Dinner consisted of a BBQ which again was lovely and informal...and absolutely delicious. When I went to choose my dress I'd had a nightmare in one shop (a very rude assistant), but thankfully came across another which specifically makes 50s style dresses and is owned by lovely ladies. The first dress that was recommended for me I absolutely loved and tried it on another three times during my first visit! Once I had that I looked online for my bridesmaid dresses- the girls all looked so beautiful! I couldn't possibly pick out a favourite part, the ceremony was perfect and the string trio were amazing! Nicole- the artist painting the ceremony was just fantastic, so discrete but really captured the moment. Jacqui- who had a tent set up and did card readings was absolutely marvellous. The photographer and videographer were perfect and listened to our 'relaxed feel' requirements. The afternoon tea and the speeches were wonderful; the cider well...I could go on. However, my favourite part of the whole day had to be the silent disco in the evening! Never in my life have I seen a dance floor packed for so long, it was amazing and I have had so many people asking about how to do it- something I would highly recommend to anyone! Although I'm sad it's over I'm so thankful for everyone's help and time they put into our big day. My biggest advice for future brides to be is to not stress about the small things as everyone is there to celebrate the love of the two of you, it's unlikely anyone will notice any small hiccups anyway. Enjoy every single moment- it really was the happiest day of our lives." The cast: Florist: Janet's Flowers, Eastbourne Photographer: Bob at Forest Photographic Co Ltd Venue: Birling Manor, East Dean Dress: Cutting Edge Brides Entertainment: Mark Parker at the DJ.co.uk String Trio: Music Students For Hire Silent Disco: Silent Noize Events Caterers: Glenie and Gillies Catering Catering Equipment: Abbey Catering Marquee: Seaholme Marquees Artist: Nicole The Artist Cupcakes: Charlotte Hills