Jody and Riyston climbed a lifeguard tower in Ibiza as part of their wedding photos. Not the kind of image they might have imagined years ago, but that was the point. Their elopement was designed to be unpredictable and playful, inspired by Vegas weddings and shaped entirely around them. After Ibiza, they returned to London for a second ceremony and reception with family and friends.

Before the vows, they did a photo session at Romeos and Grand Paradiso. “Our Ibiza wedding shoot was inspired by a Vegas weddings”, the bride told us. “We wanted something a bit different, fun that reflected our personalities rather than a traditional wedding. We always say through thick and thin, sick and sin. So the “Lovers & Sinners” theme of Romeos seemed perfect for us.”

Time and Space, where they exchanged vows at sunset, offered symbolism as well as beauty to the day. Its Doors To Nowhere represented new paths, which felt fitting for teenage sweethearts marrying in their mid-forties.

When they got home, they sent their Ibiza photos to their loved ones, inviting them to join their official ceremony at Islington Town Hall. They also had a pre-shoot wedding shoot in Angel, with their French Bulldog, Saint Ikah Smith.

Their reception at The Vineyard was stripped-back, with buffet food and a DJ. But the real highlight was unscripted. “Our friend Callum Cowley sang an impromptu first dance song When a Man Loves a Woman which was unplanned and so special,” Jody said. “The confetti was less romantic, staining Jody’s raw silk skirt red and pink. Some thought it looked intentional, others assumed it was a nod to Halloween, which had been the theme of their engagement!

For Jody, who works at Morgan Davis Bridal, the fashion was the most exciting part of planning. She sourced vintage for Riyston and had her own stocking boots made from the same fabric as her second dress. “Doing it all in secret was also really exciting,” she explained. “My outfits were our biggest expense, however I was really lucky to good prices and be able to I was able to borrow certain pieces as I work at a bridal boutique!”

When asked what else she’d splurge on if money was no object, Jody said nothing. It was already perfect. “Just do what your heart tells you and don’t bankrupt yourself for one day”, she concluded. “It was lovely to have all our friends and family in London, but our favourite part really was the elopement just the two of us. It was so romantic and what it really all is about… just the two of you.”