The offical online newsletter of the Parish of St. Brelade, Jersey
First ever wedding held at St. Aubin’s Fort
by Mickey Ryall
ONE of the most enjoyable days I can remember was on Saturday 9th July when I was invited to the wedding of David le Mottee and Natalie Hawkin. This wedding took place, by special permission, on St Aubin's Fort where Dave works as the caretaker/maintenance man.
Over 100 guests were ferried over to the Fort as the tide was in at lunch-time. This was done on Dave's boat 'Lady Samantha' and the three RIBS from the Fort. By 12.30 all the guests were assembled waiting for the bride who, in best tradition, was the last to arrive.
The weather was kind, a nice warm day with the sun shining, which was perfect for the ceremony which was held in the courtyard. It was simple but really lovely, and many photos were taken as the champagne flowed after the ceremony. A small plane flew low overhead to salute the newly married couple and everyone waved. After the photos we all went into the beautifully decorated marquee for which Natalie's mum had made hundreds of yards of colourful bunting, passing on the way the pig which was being roasted on an outdoor spit. The food was wonderful and the speeches were short but very good. The best man Paul Cogan spoke well but as he is from Wales some of the French guests had a little difficulty with the translation!
Friends and relatives had come from all over the world, including Gran from Dinard aged 93 years, Aunt Annick and Uncle Fred from USA, Dave & Martine from Geneva and many others all having a wonderful time.
Outside there was live music played by Fiddler's Green who always put on a fine performance, and a special mention must go to Dave's sister Shona who came from Vancouver, Canada and played a solo on her viola – it was a magnificent performance.
The celebrations continued throughout the evening with more guests walking across the causeway now that the tide was out. DJ Nelson supplied lively music in the marquee and dancing continued until 9.30 when it was time for the guests to beat the incoming tide and walk back across the causeway.
I believe this was the first ever wedding at St Aubin's Fort, and with a beautiful bride and lovely weather the day could not have been anything but wonderful.
