The wedding of Helen Oliver and Luke Retallack at St Ives Harbour Hotel, Cornwall, on Easter Sunday 20th April 2014, with ‘Party-Girl’ Lily
The weather could have been better – a lot better in fact! Chilly, windy and wet at times is what ‘mother nature’ had in store for us all today but Helen, Luke and indeed all involved still had a thumping good time.
Making the headlines the day that our happy couple tied the knot was, to be fair, nothing of notable historic or landmark proportions. Instead a mishmash of news ranging from energy refunds for thousands, (I haven’t received anything yet!), Miranda to host and bring back The Generation Game (nice to see her!) and the world is on the precipice of a wheat crisis (good job I’m gluten free).
On this day in history…
1906 – Fires as a result of the San Francisco earthquake on 18th April finally brought under control.
1957 – Replica of the Mayflower sets sail recreating the original journey of 1620
2012 – Mexico’s volcano, Popocatepeti erupts (Helen & Luke’s honeymoon destination)
2014 – Helen Oliver becomes Mrs. Retallack after marrying Luke…
Back then to the beautiful events that unfolded today, for which I, Chauffeur Bob, had the privilege of witnessing from the pedals of our gorgeous ‘party-girl’ Lily.
Today’s lovely bride, Helen, would have been excitedly in the final throws of preparation, already ensconced at the ceremony venue, as I made my way in Lily to meet the boys for a 10am pick-up.
You’d be excused for thinking that a 10am rendezvous in Helston seems a ‘tad’ early for a 1 o’clock kick off in St Ives. However, the boys had plans… a pre-nuptial sortie into downtown Porthleven for a few memorable poses.
Joining the main man, Luke, on board we had best man; Gary, ushers; Dean, Shane and Jordan along with Luke’s dad; Gary (yes two Gary’s).
Official picture taker for the day was professional photographer Dan Lilley, who rode shotgun.
Videographer Matt Fox, would be catching up with us later in St Ives.
Once in Porthleven, a number of snaps in and around Lily ensued before Dan took the boys walkabouts through the streets of Porthleven, whilst applying his art.
I stayed with Lily to find myself also getting snapped by onlookers and seemed to spend a considerable time fielding questions regarding Lily’s pedigree. Just like her siblings Lola and Lulu, she really does draw people like a magnet.
The boys eventually returned and we set off in good time for a planned midday ETA at St Ives Harbour Hotel. Not long into our chug, it was clear we were making good time, so I suggested that we do another photo stop at Marazion, overlooking the ‘omni-present’ St Michaels Mount. The motion was passed unanimously and a simply fabulous, impromptu and memorable few minutes were enjoyed by all. Not forgetting the many onlookers and well wishers who had gathered on the slipway, clearly enjoying the free cabaret.
We departed and had the boys arriving at The Harbour Hotel in St Ives pretty much on schedule, an hour before the allotted ceremony time of 1pm.
The rains came during the ceremony but undeterred the happy couple emerged with their entourage of photographer and videographer for a celebratory sortie into downtown St Ives.
With ‘champers’ popped, bride and groom sipping and camera crew at the ready, we embarked on a truly memorable, royal hand waving chug around arguably one of the finest places in the world.
What a wonderful day and what wonderful memories Helen and Luke will have to cherish for many years to come.
Mr. and Mrs. Retallack will be honeymooning in Mexico – our love and best wishes go with them – here’s hoping that Popocatepeti doesn’t erupt like it did this day in 2012! x
All photographs taken by Strawberry Leisure unless otherwise stated.
Just wanted to drop you a line to say a huge thank you – Lily really made our day, we had so much fun and you were fab. We can’t wait to see the photos!!!
Love Mr and Mrs Retallack!!!!! Helen and Luke