Rosie + Paddy at Tyne Bank Brewery | May 2026
“Sarah was fab, and she absolutely made the day. Her warmth and passion shone through when we met her in the run up, and this was clear on the day!”
Rosie’s infectious laughter is one of Paddy’s favourite things about her (it’s one of EVERYONE’S favourite things about her) and so it was no surprise to those of us who love her that when she had made the long walk to the top of the aisle she started laughing her head off. And hugging Paddy.
And they were kissing, and then both laughing.
And then we were all laughing.
And I’ll never forget that moment, from my privileged spot, up close at the front, looking out as everyone beamed and giggled back at them. It was so relaxed and completely genuine. I never want anyone to feel performative at the front of their wedding ceremony - like they have to act the perfect happy couple, or how they think a bride or a groom should be. Or stand. Or talk. I just want the unique, wonderful, silly, funny people I marry to feel like themselves. At least as much as possible, with all the nerves, adrenaline and eyes on them.
So the magic thread woven through Rosie and Patrick’s ceremony was that they were absolutely, unapologetically their amazing selves.
A display of pure joy
As well as laughter there were plenty of tears. Paddy was already crying when his little sisters came down the aisle as bridesmaids and fell into his arms for enormous hugs.
Music is a real passion for this pair, so they had an eclectic mix for the entrance (string quartet version of Blink 182’s All the Small Things) and exit (Stupid For You, by Waterparks) songs. Partway through the ceremony we also enjoyed a surprise violin rendition from bridesmaid Emma, the main surprise being for Paddy as she’d secretly learnt an instrumental version of a song from one of his fave bands. It was all organised by Rosie and Paddy was visibly - and audibly - in bits before the end of the second bar. Isn’t music is so powerful? And isn’t it so lovely to feel so known?
Photos by Beard Says Cheese aka BSC Photography
I was back in the venue I think I’ve now done the most weddings in - Tyne Bank Brewery - because the team are kind enough to often recommend me. And they are such a fun, chilled team; my mate - and wedding planner extraordinaire - Emma made me laugh, wheeling out a trolley mid-ceremony to hand over to the groomsmen, like a little dinner lady. Except instead of carrots and mash it was dozens and dozens of baby Guinness shots for the guests to enjoy. Another surprise.
It’s so fun ingratiating myself with the closest friends and families before, during and after the ceremony. Popping to see the bride and groom get ready and meeting loved ones, helping with last minute nerves before we begin, making sure everyone is sat in the right place and feels right at home. Rosie and Patrick’s mums are both called Karen and were both BRILLIANT. And it certainly helps my perimenopausal brain to recall important names when the mother-of-the-bride and mother-of-the-groom share the same one.
I loved telling the assembled loved ones (those I’d already met and those I would meet afterwards in the drinks reception), cute and funny details they might not know from Paddy and Rosie’s journey to this point of getting married. Not least of which because they are my first couple to have had their first kiss at a foam party. “This is turning into a roast!” Paddy said at one point, which made everyone laugh even more. I’ve always got time for good-natured heckles, especially if they come from the top of the aisle, right in front of me. I love when a ceremony feels less like a speech from me and more an interactive party.
And it really was a party: favourite songs from favourite bands, best friends, disco balls, shots, and laughter, laughter laughter.
“We had so many guests praising her and received messages like “your celebrant was the best I have ever seen” in the days afterward...”