Q&A with Castigliano Bride Hannah

Date of your wedding?

16th September 2023

Your husband’s name?

Alex Bowsher

Where and when did you get engaged?

We got engaged in May 2022. Alex planned a day of surprises to celebrate our fifth anniversary. He recreated lots of our favourite dates and then we checked into The Savoy where he proposed!

Where did you get married?

We got married at St Paul’s Church, East Molesey and then had our reception at Hampton Court Palace. It was important to us to get married in church and for the reception, Alex and I both really wanted an historic venue. We were so excited that our guests would get to walk through the Palace, past so many famous paintings, and eat dinner in the Great Hall where kings and queens have dined! Every time we visited the Palace it blew us away with its beauty and majesty.

Why did you choose your venue?

We wanted a traditional British wedding with touches of opulence. We chose quintessential white and green with blush coloured flowers, the wedding party wore morning dress and we asked ladies to wear hats. We had a gorgeous 7-tier cake and a roaming oyster shucker. We loved designing all the details for the wedding!

How did you feel in your Castigliano gown?

I have never felt so beautiful. I loved how classic, timeless and elegant the gown was. The gorgeous train and veil really made me feel like a bride. It was so special working with Adrienne and Monika to design the perfect dress for me. It could not have fit more beautifully. I also loved creating the second look, transforming the dress to dance the night away in!The rosé reception. We loved talking to our guests and seeing all our friends and family chatting and laughing and enjoying the gardens. The Palace also looked so beautiful bathed in the golden hour light.

Any tips for brides-to-be?

The day goes by so quickly so enjoy the planning process. And if there is anything you are not enjoying organising, don’t do it! The day should be a reflection of you and your partner.

The gown

Crafted with meticulous care, Hannah's gown is made of exquisite double duchess with a sweetheart neckline corset, full A line skirt which is close fitting through the hips for a fabulous silhouette. The bespoke shrug is made of a stunning French corded lace cap sleeve design with an elegant high neckline.

Venue: historicroyalpalacesevents

Photographer: weddingsbynicolaandglen

Videographer: ground.films

Caterer: rhchospitality

Band: thedukesofhavoc

Florist: lavendergreenflowers

Wedding dress: carolinecastigliano

Make up: makeupbybeckyflynn

Hair: caitlinpalmerhairandmakeup

Groom’s morning dress: favourbrook

Cake: jackandbeyond

Cheese tower: paxtonscheese