Alex and Rosalind Briggs were the first couple to say their vows at Southend Barns on July 11 since it was forced to close for events due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The couple enjoyed a small ceremony with just eight close friends and family in the setting of The Secret Garden, the venue’s licenced outdoor wedding area. With wedding receptions still not permitted at the time, the couple returned home in a vintage VW Campervan from Splitty Wedding Hire for a ‘relaxed BBQ in the garden with their guests’. A larger celebration has been planned for later in the year at Southend Barns once restrictions are lifted. Rosalind said: “We had such a special day and although it was something we never imagined it still met every expectation and more we had for a wedding day. We have been overwhelmed with the outpour of love in response to getting married and so many wanting to share in our joy. Love at a time like this, in the world as it is, is so powerful. We cannot wait to get back to Southend Barns with even more of our loved ones to celebrate in November.” Mariella Fleming, owner at Southend Barns, said it was a ‘lovely and intimate ceremony’ and a ‘real celebration of love’. She added: “It was such an honour to be part of Rosalind and Alex’s wedding ceremony, which was made even more special because of the circumstances. We now can’t wait to welcome back more couples to our beautiful barns.” Photos courtesy of Matt Ryle Photography
