‘Traditional but with madcap, off-kilter elements’ was how Annabel Sampson, Features Editor at Tatler Magazine envisaged her wedding day to James Dix and boy, did she deliver!
The planning for Annabel & James’s wedding started in early 2023 when we were contacted by Annabel’s parents who had been to several weddings in a Will’s marquee and loved them. Coincidentally, we’d also provided the wedding marquee for the Groom’s sister back in 2018 so the family were very familiar with us and our marquees.
Aisle do it my way
We were delighted to see the wedding featured in this years Tatler Wedding Guide 2025 ‘Aisle do it my way’ written by Annabel herself. Here are a few of the wedding day details …
The ‘non-negotiable’ ring-bearing owl swoops down the aisle
The day was set at home in North Yorkshire with a small round marquee for reception drinks on the lawn surrounded by an abundance of early summer flowers (one of the advantages of having a plant devoted mother!) before moving onto a larger four pole marquee for the wedding breakfast and dancing in the adjoining paddock.
Annabel in her Halfpenny dress surrounded by bridesmaids
Dining tables were named after ancient leaders and decorated with busts and urns bursting with herbs, ivy and flowering grasses. The tables were decorated with vases (all 72 of them handmade by the mother of the bride) and filled with peonies, alliums, veronica and catmint, along with tambourines galore which served both as place names and a boisterous welcome for the bride and groom.
After a fabulous wedding breakfast, a confetti cannon was fired at the end of the newlyweds first dance to INXS’s ‘Need You Tonight’ and guests enjoyed sparklers and surprise fireworks across the fields.
‘Undoubtedly the greatest day of my life’ AS
And it’s easy to see why. From the thoughtful details to the whimsical touches, every part of their wedding day was filled with personality, charm, and love. Annabel’s vision of blending traditional elements with playful, madcap surprises resulted in a celebration that felt uniquely their own.
The perfect British summer party accessory
This wedding was a beautiful reminder of how blending tradition with creativity can result in a day that’s not only stunning but truly personal. Annabel and James’s celebration will undoubtedly be remembered by all who attended, and we’re so pleased to have been part of their magical day.
For those looking to host their own dream summer wedding or garden party, Wills Marquees has become the go-to choice for creating a beautifully British aesthetic. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large event, a Wills marquee can turn any space into the perfect venue. You’ll find more information on a Wills near you here.
Check out the full article in Tatler’s May edition within the Wedding Guide 2025.
