Harriet & Lewis

Morning & Preparations

The day began at Winters Barns in Canterbury, where Harriet and her bridal party got ready surrounded by laughter, music and calm excitement. The morning included gift exchanges and final touches before Harriet stepped into her dress. Lewis arrived late morning – relaxed, ready, and surrounded by his best men.

Outdoor Ceremony at Winters Barns

The ceremony took place beneath the summer sun in the courtyard gardens of Winters Barns. Guests stood as Harriet walked down the aisle with her father, Phil – a beautiful entrance set to heartfelt music.

The ceremony featured two readings: If I Never Knew You, read by Ashleigh, and The Ent and the Entwife, read by Lewis’s father, Martin. Both readings captured themes of deep love, friendship, and devotion, setting the tone perfectly for the vows that followed.

Their vows were sincere and full of emotion – sealed with smiles, tears, and applause as they were announced husband and wife.

Reception & Speeches

The reception followed seamlessly in the beautiful oak-framed barn. Speeches began before the wedding breakfast, led by Harriet’s father, followed by the groom, and then best men Lewis and Dan.

Father of the Bride (Phil)

Phil opened with warmth, humour and reflection – welcoming guests, remembering loved ones, and celebrating Harriet and Lewis’s twelve years together. He shared touching stories about Harriet’s childhood and her late mum Fiona – whose presence was deeply felt throughout the day. He spoke of Harriet’s love of dance, her drive, and her journey to becoming Head of Drama and Head of Year – as well as her strong-willed character and her habit of getting exactly where she wants to be.

Phil finished by welcoming Lewis fully into the family, mixing gentle jokes about golf and DIY with heartfelt advice for marriage – compromise, compassion, empathy and support – and a final toast to the new Mr and Mrs Handley.

The Groom (Lewis)

Lewis opened with humour and honesty – instantly crediting Harriet for her hard work and creativity in planning every detail of the day. He thanked both families for their love and support, and shared stories from their early days at TGI Fridays where they first met, through to buying their home together and becoming dog parents to Frank.

His speech was heartfelt and full of laughter, with mentions of golf rivalries with Phil, their shared love of Disney and theatre, and a moving tribute to Harriet’s mum, Fiona. He closed by quoting Jerry Maguire – “You complete me” – before raising a glass to his new wife, Mrs Handley.

Best Men (Lewis and Dan)

The best men took the mic with stories spanning school days, stag weekends and late-night escapades. They shared memories of travels around Europe, football matches and the kind of friendship built on humour and loyalty.

One of the highlights was a story of Lewis’s good heart – once picking up their dog Frank’s poo with his bare hands outside a neighbour’s house rather than leave it behind and risk being caught on a doorbell camera. It summed him up perfectly – funny, kind and always trying to do the right thing.

Evening Celebrations

The evening opened with the couple’s first dance, followed by a father-daughter dance - then The Redfords took over and kept the floor full all night. From singalongs to dancefloor anthems, the energy in the barn was electric.

A Personal Note

Working alongside Nicky from N Photography is always a pleasure. Nicky is a great friend and one of our favourite collaborators – calm, creative, and always fun to work with.

A special mention also goes to the incredible team at Winters Barns – especially Sophie, Sally and Lizzie – who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure every wedding runs smoothly. Sophie ran the day for Harriet and Lewis and did an amazing job as always.