From Switzerland with love.
When Stephanie first stepped into our boutique back in February 2023, we had no idea just how much we would come to cherish her visits. Even after her glorious wedding day, she still remains a huge part of the Boo Family! When we asked her if she would like to re-visit her wedding day for you - she jumped at the chance. Pop the kettle on and immerse yourself in her fairytale story.
The Fairytale Wedding I Always Dreamed Of
From Switzerland to Tuscany
Twelve years ago, I met the man who would change my life forever. It was a party at a mutual friend’s house, and as I stood at the door, it swung open to reveal Paul—a tall, handsome man in a tuxedo. I was immediately intrigued. We had worked in the same company for years, yet somehow, I’d never noticed him until that moment.
Paul is everything I’m not. He’s calm, quiet, and meticulous—he even follows instructions word for word! I, on the other hand, am loud, fiery, and prone to flying by the seat of my pants. But together, we balance each other perfectly. He’s my best friend, my rock, and my greatest adventure.
After years of dating, I gradually moved myself into Paul’s flat. It wasn’t an official conversation—more like a slow invasion. Before he knew it, I had taken over his space with home-cooked meals, neatly folded laundry, and my favourite candles. I know he secretly loved the company (and the cleanliness!).
Nine years later, Paul finally worked up the courage to propose.
The Proposal of a Lifetime
Paul planned a proposal so romantic it could rival a movie. We were visiting his parents’ house in the Swiss mountains, where he took me to Jungfrau, the “Top of Europe.” His plan was to propose in the middle of a glacier, up amongst the clouds surrounded by breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks.
Of course, nothing ever goes exactly to plan! Earlier that day, Paul had torn his salopettes and ended up wearing mine! As if that wasn’t bad enough, when we arrived at the proposal spot, a snowstorm threatened to derail everything, and I, being my stubborn self, didn’t want to step outside into the freezing cold. But Paul insisted. And thank God he did—because the moment he dropped to one knee, the world around us seemed to stand still. Snow fell softly as he asked me to marry him, and it was nothing short of magical.
Finding our dream venue
Growing up, I had always imagined a grand wedding in a cathedral in a large, over the top princess ballgown with thousands of guests. But when Paul and I started planning, we agreed on something more lowkey and intimate. At first, we fell in love with Bury Court near our home in Farnham, but life had other plans.
Shortly after Paul proposed, my mum sadly fell ill. It was a heartbreaking time, and we realised in those moments how precious every moment is. We therefore decided to bring our wedding forward and started searching for a venue where we could celebrate life, love, and family. My sister suggested Casa Bruciata, a breathtaking estate in Tuscany, Italy. Without even visiting, I called the wedding planner and booked it immediately!
When we finally arrived, it was everything I’d imagined and more. The venue sat atop rolling green hills, with an infinity pool that seemed to spill into the horizon, lush gardens, and rustic stone houses. It felt as if time itself slowed down there.
We wanted our wedding day to be relaxed and filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. And it was exactly that.
Dream Team
Planning a wedding in another country could have been overwhelming, but Luigi, our fabulous wedding planner, was incredible. He invited us to a weekend stay six months before the wedding, where we sampled wine, tasted the most divine food, and met every vendor he recommended.
Roberta, our florist, created breathtaking arrangements that transformed the venue into an Italian dreamscape. For entertainment, we booked Brit Pops—an Italian boy band that brought the house down. Imagine Backstreet Boys with a twist of Italian charm!
Of course, no Italian wedding would be complete without gelato, so we hired a gelato truck that served unlimited scoops in the most delicious flavours. And because I love a little drama, I asked Luigi if we could add fireworks. Despite the venue’s name (Casa Bruciata means "house on fire"), Luigi made it happen, and the fireworks lit up the sky in the most magical way.
One of the best decisions we made was hiring Serina, our photographer. I’ve always hated having my picture taken, but Serina made me feel so comfortable. She spent time getting to know us before the wedding and even shared tips on how to feel at ease in front of the camera. She captured every moment beautifully.
What did I enjoy about my Boo adventure?
Absolutely everything! Finding a wedding dress was something I had been so nervous about. Losing my mum had left me feeling vulnerable, and I wasn’t in the best shape either. The thought of walking into a bridal shop was daunting, to say the least. But from the moment I stepped into Boo Bridal, all of that changed.
I vividly remember how shaky I felt when I first arrived. Emma, with her warm smile and calming presence, handed me a cup of tea, and within minutes, I felt completely at ease. She and Poppy welcomed my sister and me like family—it didn’t feel like we were shopping for a dress; it felt like we were spending time with people who genuinely cared.
Having had a less-than-great experience at another bridal shop—where, believe it or not, I was dressed in a black gown and red heels—I was overwhelmed with relief when Emma had all the dresses I’d pre-selected ready and waiting for me. Every detail had been thought through. She encouraged me to take my time, look at myself in each dress, and talk about what I liked and didn’t like. For the first time, I felt like I was choosing my dress, rather than someone else imposing their opinion on me.
Emma’s expertise was nothing short of magical. She instinctively knew what would compliment my shape and skin tone. When I decided to customise my dress, she went above and beyond to make my vision come to life. She personally called the designers to discuss my ideas, ensuring they could create something unique and perfect for me. Emma truly is my fairy godmother—turning nerves into confidence and transforming a dress into a masterpiece.
The experience didn’t end on my wedding day. A year after the wedding, Emma still checks in on Paul and me, asking how we’re doing and sharing in the joy of our milestones. That’s what makes Boo Bridal so special—it’s not just a shop; it’s a community, a support system, and a place where dreams come true.
Looking back, my Boo adventure wasn’t just a part of my wedding journey—it was one of the most beautiful and memorable experiences of my life. Emma and her team didn’t just help me find a dress; they gave me confidence, joy, and memories I’ll cherish forever.
A Butterfly’s Blessing
One (of many) moment from our wedding stands out above the rest. Emma at Boo Bridal had surprised me by sewing a butterfly applique into the overskirt of my dress, knowing how much I missed my mum and how I had longed for her to be there with me.
During the ceremony, I showed the butterfly to Paul, and as if by magic, a real butterfly fluttered down and landed on my bouquet. It was a sign—a reminder that my mum was with me, watching over us. Paul and I looked at each other, smiling through tears, and shared a quiet, meaningful laugh. It was the most beautiful moment of my life.
Lessons for Future Brides
If I could share anything with future brides, it would be this:
Savor every second. The day flies by faster than you can imagine. Take time to pause and soak it all in.
Stay true to your vision. Everyone will have opinions, but this is your day. Do what makes you and your partner happy.
Go all out. You only get one wedding day (hopefully!), so make it count. You won’t regret investing in your happiness.
Married Bliss
Our wedding was everything I dreamed of and more. I didn’t want to take off my dress at the end of the night—in fact, I’ve put it on several times since! Married life has been a whirlwind of joy, and in December, we welcomed our beautiful son, Theo.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change a single thing about our wedding day. From the Tuscan hills to the gelato truck, it was a celebration of love, family, and the life we’re building together.
As we move forward, I can’t wait to see my sister walk down the aisle later this year wearing my veil, a piece of our story woven into her day. And who knows? Maybe one day, Theo will be planning his own wedding, inspired by the magical memories we created together.
I’m not crying - you are!
I hope you will join with me and the rest of The Team here at Boo, in wishing Stephanie, Paul & Baby Theo a lifetime of happiness and adventure.
Thank you so much Stephanie, for sharing your wonderful story with us, all my love, Emma xx
