Chloe and James had a gorgeous, chilled and relaxed summer wedding at Cooling Castle Barn. With the sun beating down and temperatures soaring, friends and family joined these guys at one of Kent’s most beautiful venues. Add the fact England beat Panama in the World Cup leading to a chorus of ‘Three Lions’ across tables, helped create a very special day for such a lovely couple. Check out their story below.
First names: James and Chloe
Ages: 24 (James) and 23 (Chloe)
Wedding date: 24 June 2018
Venue: Cooling Castle Barn
How did you guys meet, tell me all?
We first met when we were teenagers, briefly through a mutual friend. (Chloe thought I was weird). Then met again a few years later in June(-ish we think) 2010 at a party. Chloe had a boyfriend, but we got to talking (Chloe says I tried to kiss her, I say I didn’t). She asked my friend for my number and we talked some more. Eventually, we ended up on our first date at the Pizza Place (yes that is the actual name of the restaurant) in February. A few months later, in Chloe’s Dad’s garden bar, I was drinking a beer with my arm around Chloe’s shoulder. Gary asked me the question “have you asked her out yet” to which I replied “no”. He then promptly told me to get my arm off his daughter and give him his beer back. I asked her out later that night.
How did you get engaged, is there a cool story?
Chloe asked for three things for her 21st birthday. Disneyland, a rabbit and an engagement ring (she clearly isn’t a cheap date). Her parents told me they had bought us tickets to Disneyland, so I was left with two options, and I really didn’t want a rabbit. So, I got her a ring and prepared to propose. I led inspector Chloe off the scent by saying that I had paid for half of Disneyland. I then proposed at Roast, Borough Market, London on the day before her 21st birthday. I gave her the ring tied around a Thumper teddy (rabbit from Bambi). She didn’t notice the ring, just looked and said aww thanks. I had to tell her to look again before she noticed. So, she ended up with all three things she asked for (she never said it had to be a real rabbit).
What made you choose your wedding venue, did you look at many?
We looked at Brands Hatch Place and was originally going to pick there. Our mums persuaded us to go look at Cooling because they both said it was special. We went to view the venue, but I had to leave halfway through the viewing (for a Uni thing). By the time I got home Chloe and our mums had pretty much made the decision that Cooling was where we will tie the knot.
What was the inspiration/theme of your wedding?
We didn’t really have a theme. Chloe picked the decorations because she likes the rustic looking weddings. We are big TV/Netflix fans which is how we decided on the table names. The lanterns on the tables are in reference to Chloe’s favourite Disney film (Tangled).
What is your first song and why?
We are both big fans of Ed Sheeran. We went to Paris a few years ago, when his album had just been released, so that’s a big memory from the holiday. We are going to see him play at Wembley, a week before the wedding.
What would be your number one tip to other couples planning their wedding?
One of you has to remain calm, and not stress. Remember a happy wife equals a happy life.
Check out Chloe and James’ Chilled summer wedding at Cooling Castle Barn below.
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The photography: All images captured with two X-Pro 2’s.
Lenses: Fujinon XF 16mm f1.4 R WR, Fujinon XF 23mm f1.4 R, Fujinon XF 56mm f1.2
Other awesome suppliers who helped during Chloe and James’ summer wedding at Cooling Castle Barn.
Hair stylist: N/A
Website: N/A
Make up artist: Hannah Monk
Website: http://www.hannahmakeup.co.uk
Brides dress: Caroline Castigliano
Website: http://www.hitchedbridal.co.uk
Bridesmaids dresses: Vera Wang
Website: http://www.davidsbridal.co.uk
Suits: Moss Bros
Website: https://www.moss.co.uk/tailor-me
Florist: Danny Watchorn
Website: https://danny-watchorn.squarespace.com
Cake: Creative Cakes
Website: https://www.creativeweddingcakes.co.uk
Caterer: Venue
Website: N/A
Band/DJ: Venue provided DJ
Website: N/A
Videographer: Talking Fly
Website: https://www.talkingfly.co.uk
Any other supplier of note:
Magician – Robert Orange
Are you looking for a wedding photographer? Would you like someone who photographs it in an alternative, fun and natural way? Fancy seeing your wedding pictures on my Instagram and on other cool wedding blogs? Get in touch and let me know all about your day! I need to know the date, ceremony and reception details and most importantly all the ideas you have!
Let’s chat about your day!
Summer wedding at Cooling Castle Barn | Kent Wedding Photographer | https://rosshurley.com | Ross Hurley Photography