Some people spend years searching for ‘the one’. For Patrice Andrews and Calum May, all it took was a chance encounter.

The couple met while working at an event in London in December 2019. A spontaneous conversation followed by a night out after their shifts ended would prove to be the start of something special.

There was an effortless connection from the start.

Their first official date came during the uncertainty of Covid restrictions, when Calum planned an evening of bowling followed by dinner in London. It wasn't exactly the classic romantic setting, but it turned out to be lots of fun and the perfect chance to simply enjoy each other's company.

The couple’s relationship continued to grow through shared adventures, laughter, unwavering support and a deep friendship, and the more time they spent together, the more certain they became that they'd found their perfect match.

“We're so alike in all the best ways,” says Patrice. “Our outlook on life, future goals, music taste and love for making the most of every moment. Cal is the most caring person I know, and it just always felt like we were building the same future together.”

The Proposal

When Calum decided it was time to propose, he wanted every part of it to feel personal.

Knowing how much Marrakesh meant to Patrice, who had previously lived there, he planned a trip so they could revisit some of her favourite places together.

When they arrived back at their beautiful riad, Patrice was greeted by rose petals carefully arranged to spell out the words 'Will You Marry Me?'

Standing in a city she loved, beside the man she loved even more, she of course said yes!

“The ring is absolutely stunning and he chose it completely by himself,” says Patrice proudly.

The couple then turned their attention to planning a wedding that felt elegant, timeless and welcoming for their family and friends. They found exactly that at Braxted Park Estate.

“We wanted somewhere nearby with a grand, stately home feel and beautiful grounds,” recalls Patrice. “From the moment we arrived, we could picture ourselves celebrating there. We instantly fell in love with the grandeur of the house, its elegant interiors and its spectacular gardens. Braxted Park was everything we'd been looking for and more.”

Patrice's dress search couldn't have been easier. Her elegant Eva Lendel gown was everything she'd dreamed of.

“I actually spotted my dress on Instagram, and it was the very first one I tried on when I visited Abigail’s Collection!” she laughs. “I instantly knew it was the gown for me, and Abigail’s Collection were amazing throughout the whole experience.”

The Big Day

When May 27th finally arrived, the excitement was impossible to hide.

Patrice spent the morning getting ready with her mum, Wendy Andrews, alongside her Maids of Honour, Helen Dunne-Abela and Grace Lally, and bridesmaids Chloe Attreed, Sophie Stokes and Millie Miles. Between the laughter, music and a few happy tears, the morning passed in a blur as everyone prepared for the celebrations ahead.

Meanwhile, Calum spent the morning getting ready with his groomsmen, Luke Morrice and Aaron Djemil, along with his brother and Best Man, Michael May-Gildharry, before preparing to welcome guests and waiting for the moment he'd finally see Patrice walk down the aisle.

“There were so many highlights of the day. Getting ready with my closest friends, walking down the aisle with my dad Patrick Andrews and seeing Calum's face for the first time are moments I'll never forget,” smiles Patrice.

“But the ceremony has to be one of the most memorable parts of the day. Sharing our vows with each other was so special, and the overwhelming sense of love in the room and looking around and seeing every important person in our lives gathered together in one place was an experience we'll never forget.”

With both of their families looking on, Patrice and Calum exchanged vows before celebrating their new chapter together.

The speeches brought exactly the right mix of emotion and laughter, with family and friends sharing stories that had everyone laughing one minute and wiping away tears the next.

As evening fell, the celebrations moved into party mode. A fantastic live band kept the dance floor full while Patrice and Calum soaked up every second. Between dancing, catching up with loved ones and stealing the odd quiet moment together, the evening flew by.

Thankfully, Dani Lou Photography captured every smile, happy tear and stolen glance.

Looking back, it's not the tiny details Patrice and Calum remember most, but the feeling of finally becoming husband and wife surrounded by everyone they love.

From a chance conversation after work to the wedding day they'd always dreamed of, their story proves that sometimes the best things really do happen when you least expect them.

Patrice's advice to future brides

"Don't get caught up trying to make everything perfect. The day goes by so quickly, so soak up every moment, spend time with your guests, and remember it's all about marrying your best friend." 

Behind The Scenes

Venue: Braxted Park Estate
Photographer: Dani Lou Photography 
Second photographer: Anna Murt 
Videographer: Rewind The Day Films 
Content: Teegan 
Dress designer: Eva Lendel 
Bridal store: Abigails Collection 
Stylist: Elf Occasions & Fairytale Finishes 
Hair: Leggy Bird Hair 
Makeup: Demi-Rae 
Florist: Designer Flowers Essex 
Cake: For Goodness Cakes 
Violinist: Anna 
360 Photobooth: Funloading 360 
DJ: Jack Cavanagh
Band: Party Up