Presents

SOPHIERAV

22nd August 2015

The City RoomsLeicester

Bristling with excitement, Sophie and Rav knew that the celebrations had only just begun. Looking deeply into one another’s eyes, they radiated pure happiness and love as the registrar invited their friends and family to join her in congratulating the new Mr and Mrs Singh-Redman...

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Cars, bikes, buses and a bevy of Saturday shoppers swept along the busy streets of Leicester city centre. Football fans dressed in bright blue spilled out of bars and pubs while tourists flocked to the Cathedral, pounding pavements awash with colourful blooms cascading from an avenue of hanging-baskets. On Horsefair Street, above the Town

Hall Square, brightly coloured bunting blew wildly in the breeze. At the centre of the courtyard, spectacular plumes of wa-ter fell from a huge ornamental fountain. Four fierce winged lions formed the base of the majestic structure, standing guard beneath intricately carved tiers of granite and cast iron. Visitors relaxed on the surrounding grass, relishing the glorious August sunshine. With cold drinks and ice creams in hand they seemed oblivious to the hustle and bustle of the city around them.

Devoid of traffic and shielded from the sun by tall buildings on either side, nearby Hotel Street felt secluded and quiet in comparison. Towering above a peaceful cobbled square, the elegant Georgian frontage of The City Rooms dominated the peaceful thoroughfare. Busily stitching and deep in concentration, a life-sized bronze statue of an eighteenth century seam-stress stood outside. Sleek, modern benches lined the square while the sinewy branches of a tall leafy tree stretched upwards towards the sky.

Once intended to serve as the city’s premier hotel, since its completion in 1800 the building had progressed from Assembly Rooms to Judges Lodgings, and from County Rooms to its present incarnation. Steeped in history, The City Rooms had played host to everything from race balls and rock music to art exhibitions and military dinners, but today its doors would be thrown open for the wedding of Sophie and Rav.

Outside, glossy black iron railings spanned the length of the building and regal Roman Doric columns supported the porch above its entrance. On the first floor, three equally spaced windows, each finished with a fanlight, were divided by grand Ionic columns topped with distinctive carved capitals. Two terracotta figures looked out over the courtyard below, each one set back within a niche on either side of the central window. Created by celebrated English sculptor Charles Rossi, the statues depicted the Comic and Lyric muses. A frieze of dancing girls above each niche added yet another decorative flourish to the building’s grand architecture.

Beyond the double doors on the ground floor, an impressive entrance hall led the first of Sophie and Rav’s guests inside. Pass-ing beneath an opulent chandelier, they found themselves in a small lobby with a huge, wide wooden staircase at its centre. A sumptuous patterned carpet hugged each step while cloudlike bursts of baby’s breath and silvery green foliage sprung from the smooth, polished wood of the banister. Fairy lights twinkled from between the branches of two small bay trees on either side and, at the top of the stairs, the word ‘Private’ in gold lettering ensured the door to the bridal suite remained closed.

Nestled in front of a large gilded mirror, a huge urn filled with lilies and hydrangeas sat upon a black marble table. Beauti-fully carved from glistening mahogany, plump cherubs adorned the legs, supporting the surface above with the tips of their wings and outstretched hands. A small sign invited guests to deposit their cards in an ivory letterbox while another requested

that they sign the guest book below. Tucked beneath the voluptuous arrangement of blooms, a final notice asked guests to share their images on Instagram using the couple’s personalised hashtag. Designed to reflect Sophie’s Dutch and Rav’s Sikh heritage, each piece of stationery featured an intricate flock pattern in cobalt blue and a vibrant orange border. Candles in tiny glass vessels flickered furiously amidst the display, casting patterns of light across the mottled marble below.

As 1pm drew near, friends and family began to trail in from the courtyard outside. Filling the ground floor of The City Rooms with a riot of colour, Rav’s family arrived en masse, clothed in an array of beautiful bejewelled saris and salwar kameez. Wearing their finest gold jewellery and representing almost every colour of the rainbow, guests brushed past vases brimming with powder blue hydrangeas, exotic orange lilies and fragrant ivory stocks. Ornate beading, intricate embroi-dery, bindis and dazzling chandelier earrings shimmered in the light while the crowd began to mingle and the sound of cheerful conversation filled the air.

Arriving in a whirlwind of excited chatter, another crowd of guests came bursting into the lobby. Proudly representing their home country, many of Sophie and Rav’s friends wore eye-catching blue and orange ensembles. While some opted for bold accessories, others modelled their national colours from head-to-toe, capturing the wedding’s exquisite palette in a single sartorial step.

As the ground floor continued to buzz with anticipation and excitement, Sophie’s parents appeared at the top of the stairs. Wearing a chic patterned jacket and an elegant fitted dress, Jane stepped carefully from one step to the next, balancing precariously on slender high heels as she clung tightly to the banister. With close-cropped, bright blonde hair and deep blue crystal embellishments completing her glamorous outfit, she looked truly resplendent. Recognising familiar faces among the crowd, Pete smiled warmly at friends and family as he stepped into the throng. Pausing to adjust the ivory rose pinned to the lapel of his navy blue jacket, he began to work the crowd like a pro, shaking hands and exchanging witty banter as he moved throughout the space.

Retrieving her phone from the depths of a crystal beaded clutch, Amarjit anxiously awaited news of her son’s arrival. As she studied the notifications on her screen, gold embroidery and fine beading shimmered on the surface of her royal blue Indian suit. Responding to a sudden flurry of messages, she beckoned to Jane, dashing off towards the building’s rear entrance with her maternal counterpart in tow.

As guests began to make a beeline for the Kasumba Bar, Rav suddenly appeared amidst the crowd. Towering above Amarjit, his flamboyant outfit drew admiring glances from every direction. Cut from supple, smooth silk, his cobalt blue three-piece suit contrasted beautifully with the vivid orange handkerchief peeping out of his top pocket. Orange socks accompanied his blue suede shoes, their rich hue reflected on the surface of shiny gold buckles. Carefully pinned to his lapel, the delicate petals of an ivory rose mingled with those of a brightly coloured marigold while a narrow navy blue tie completed his dapper ensemble.

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‘You look really good!’ Kelly said, looking him up and down with the experienced eye of a wedding co-ordinator.

‘Thank you,’ Rav replied graciously. Expertly concealing his nerves, he greeted nearby guests with enthusiasm, the constant shuffling of his feet providing the only indication of any underlying anxiety.

Glancing at her watch, Kelly quickly consulted her colleague before hastily ushering the groom away from the crowd. Ready to meet the registrar, Rav fiddled with the button of his jacket before disappearing inside the Dining Room.

Within the cosy confines of the bar nearby, guests sipped drinks in the candlelight while the sound of piano music punctu-ated their cheerful conversation. Beautiful star-shaped lanterns hung from the ceiling, their soft glow emanating on to the pretty patterned wallpaper below. At the far end of the space, champagne bottles decorated each step of an ornate sweeping staircase while a small chandelier provided further illumination.

Clothed in a frothy purple dress, Rav’s little niece, Simmy, clung to the brightly coloured skirt of Noori’s sari. Shyly peeking out from behind the older child, she fingered a slender gold chain around her neck as she gazed up at the adults around her. ‘I’m shaking,’ Jane confided to a group of friends.

‘Oh darling, no! Enjoy it!’ one of them replied, extending a reassuring hand.

Rejoining the crowd, Rav soon found himself inside the bar, surrounded by friends and family. Rubbing the palms of his hands together, he cried out for a glass of water while guests quizzed him on his current state of mind.

‘Nothing to be nervous about,’ he said, trying to convince himself as much those who were listening. ‘The worst bit is the speech!’

Suddenly calling the room to attention, a member of staff politely invited everyone to make their way into the Dining Room where the ceremony would soon begin.

‘You’ll be able to see her in the mirror,’ Jane enthused, gesturing towards the mantelpiece.

‘I know,’ Rav replied with a smile, a flicker of excitement registering on his face as he glanced up at his own reflection.

The ornate mirror hung above a mantelpiece decorated with trailing green foliage. Tucked away among bundles of gypsoph-ila, three-dimensional silver letters spelt out the couple’s initials. An arrangement of ivory, blue and orange flowers lay on the table in front of the fireplace, a silver ring pillow tucked between verdant green palm leaves. Cobalt blue organza sashes

adorned the chairs that had been laid out to form neat rows on either side of the aisle. A window had been thrown open in the hope that a gentle breeze might flow freely throughout the space, but the intense August heat could not be suppressed. Guests transformed Orders of Service into makeshift fans as they took up their seats while a cacophony of English and Dutch voices mingled with the sound of classical music and the distant hum of the bustling city outside.

A flurry of last minute arrivals came striding in, hurriedly taking up their seats as the music came to a stop. Samantha stepped forward, smiling warmly at the sea of faces before her.

‘Ladies and gentleman,’ the registrar said purposefully, ‘could I please ask you to be upstanding.’

Desperate to catch a glimpse of the bride, the audience leapt from their seats, spinning round to face the door at the back of the room. With tears in her eyes, Jane watched and waited as the elegant sound of violins began to reverberate throughout the space. Rav exhaled deeply, his unwavering gaze fixed firmly on the opposite wall.

Enveloped in the soft, lilting notes of the music, Sophie swept gracefully into the room. Wearing an enormous smile, she held her father’s hand tightly as she began her journey down the aisle. Beaming from ear to ear, incomparable paternal pride punctuated Pete’s every movement as he diligently escorted his beautiful daughter towards her betrothed.

Parted to one side, silken strands of Sophie’s golden blonde hair brushed against her cheek. The close-fitting fabric of her gown hugged the sensuous curves of her body while a multitude of gleaming embellishments shimmered in the light. Trail-ing behind, a puddle of diaphanous fabric fell to the floor, its delicate scallop edge decorating the navy blue carpet below. In her right hand, Sophie held a small bouquet of orange, peach and ivory roses interspersed with vibrant marigolds and bright blue nigella.

Finally turning to face his bride, Rav looked into Sophie’s eyes as she drew near. Mesmerised by her beauty, he shone with happiness, a huge smile spreading across his face. Equally captivated, the audience looked on in awe as the couple were united at the front of the room. Relinquishing his daughter’s hand, Pete stroked the back of Sophie’s arm as she drifted into Rav’s embrace. Smiling proudly, he slowly backed away, allowing the significance of the moment to wash over him as he took up his seat beside Jane.

‘Thank you ladies and gentlemen,’ Samantha said cheerfully. ‘Good afternoon, and may I welcome you to The City Rooms where we’re met on this occasion to witness the marriage of Ravinder and Sophie.’

With their hands entwined, the bride and groom sat side-by-side as the registrar invited Jiten forward to deliver the first reading.

‘He’s not perfect,’ he began, ‘you aren’t either, and the two of you will never be perfect. But if he can make you laugh at

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least once, causes you to think twice, and if he admits to being human and making mistakes, hold onto him and give him the most you can.’

The couple listened attentively as Jiten continued to recite Bob Marley’s prose, smiling as he reminded the bride that while Rav may not think of her every moment, he had given her a part of himself that he knew she could break.

‘Don’t hurt him,’ he implored, ‘don’t change him, and don’t expect for more than he can give. Don’t analyse. Smile when he makes you happy, yell when he makes you mad, and miss him when he’s not there.’

Glancing down at the sheet of paper he had sandwiched between the pages of his order of service, Jiten delivered the final line of his reading in a voice that perfectly conveyed its deep significance.

‘Love hard when there is love to be had,’ he instructed. ‘Because perfect guys don’t exist, but there’s always one guy that is perfect for you.’

The sound of jubilant applause rose up from the audience as Jiten returned to his seat. Sophie and Rav smiled appreciatively, obviously thrilled with their friend’s beautiful oration.

As silence returned to the ceremony room, Samantha invited the bride and groom to stand, confirming their full names before she continued.

‘In order to proceed with the ceremony,’ she said seriously, ‘I have to ask that if any person present knows of any lawful impediment why Ravinder and Sophie should not be joined in matrimony, please declare it now.’

Flashing her groom a mischievous grin, Sophie playfully wagged her finger at Rav’s reflection in the mirror opposite. The registrar chuckled, praising the audience for their good behaviour. The crowd laughed, amused at the thought of themselves as potential troublemakers.

‘This room in which you are now met has been duly sanctioned according to law for the celebration of marriages,’ Samantha continued. ‘Before you are joined together in matrimony, it is my duty to remind you of the solemn and binding character of the vows you are about to make to each other. Marriage according to the law of this country is the union of two people, voluntarily entered into for life, to the exclusion of all others.’

In a tremulous voice, Rav made his declaration, echoing the registrar with care. Too nervous to look away, his eyes remained fixed on Samantha as he followed her lead.

Enveloped in the soft, lilting notes of the music, Sophie swept gracefully into the room. Wearing an enormous smile, she held her father’s hand tightly as she began her journey down the aisle. Beaming from ear to ear, incom-parable paternal pride punctuated Pete’s every move-ment as he diligently escorted his beautiful daughter to-wards her betrothed.

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‘You can breathe now,’ she quipped when he had completed the task.

Swiftly turning her attention to the bride, the registrar listened carefully as Sophie repeated the same proclamation. Obvi-ously excited, an irrepressible giggle escaped as she spoke.

‘I do solemnly declare,’ she said enthusiastically, ‘that I know not of any lawful impediment why I, Sophie Elizabeth Redman, may not be joined in matrimony with Ravinder Singh.’

At the registrar’s behest, Polly rose from her seat and stood before the audience at the front of the room. Clothed in an ivory silk shirt dress and a vibrant royal blue scarf, she turned to face the crowd.

‘Carrie’s Poem - A Wedding Reading,’ Polly said confidently, smiling proudly at her sister and Rav as she launched into the first verse.

‘His hello was the end of her endings,’ she began, ‘her laugh was their first step down the aisle. His hand was hers to hold forever, his forever was as simple as her smile.’

While Polly’s bright blue eyes filled with crystal tears, her voice remained joyful and clear. Looking directly at the bride and groom, she smiled broadly as she delivered the final passage.

‘He said she was what was missing, she said instantly she knew. She was a question to be answered, and his answer was “I do.”’Thunderous applause filled the room as Polly returned to her seat. Brushing a single tear from her cheek, Sophie beamed at her sister while the registrar asked everyone to be upstanding.

‘With Ravinder and Sophie having declared that they know no lawful reason why they should not marry each other, it is now time for them to say the contracting words of their marriage.’

Gently plucking Sophie’s ring from a pillow on the table before him, Rav slipped the slender gold band over the tip of her outstretched finger. As the couple turned to face each other, Samantha delivered the words she required Rav to repeat.

‘I call upon these persons here present,’ he said, ‘to witness that I Ravinder Singh, do take thee, Sophie Elizabeth Redman to be my lawful wedded wife.’

‘Now Ravinder, do you want to say your own vows to Sophie?’ Samantha asked.

‘Yes,’ he replied.

‘Deep breath everybody!’ the registrar said with a chuckle, pre-empting the emotional rollercoaster that would surely follow.

‘Sophie, you are the love of my life, my one and only,’ Rav began. ‘I promise to love you, always and unconditionally, even when you’re a little bit grumpy!’

A murmur of laughter rose up from the crowd. Rav continued, his words punctuated with calming breaths as he promised to be his bride’s biggest fan and her best friend. Gazing up at him adoringly, Sophie listened attentively as he pledged to keep her happy, forever smiling and laughing, even when they were grey and old.

‘You’re my best friend and the love of my life.’ he said, smiling constantly at his bride. ‘I will always be by your side. So be mine, on this amazing adventure that will be our lives together.’

Guests sighed wistfully before erupting into thunderous applause.

‘Sophie, take the ring you’re going to exchange with Ravinder and place it half way down his wedding finger.’

Obediently following the registrar’s instructions, Sophie looked at Rav intently as she repeated the words that would con-tract their marriage, easing his wedding band into position as she spoke.

‘Do you want to say your own vows?’ Samantha asked.

‘I’ll try!’ Sophie exclaimed, acutely aware of the tears that threatened to fall.

The audience chuckled, their faces fixed in a look of mesmerised avidity.

‘You ready?’ Sophie asked Rav mischievously. With the audience’s laughter ringing in her ears, she smiled playfully before finally delivering her vows.

‘My darling Rav,’ she began, ‘when I first met you, I knew that was it; you were going to be mine forever. I was absolutely smitten and I remember telling my mum that if there was ever a chance that I was going to get married, you would be the one. It’s you, it’s always been you, from day one, and it will always be you. You’re my best friend, you’re my rock, and the only person who can handle my crazy personality!’

Chuckling loudly, the audience nodded in agreement. Sophie continued to smile as she described the happiness Rav had brought to her life.

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‘Even when you leave your dirty washing on the floor and only do half the washing up, I wouldn’t have it any other way,’ she explained. ‘I love you with every bone in my body and I couldn’t imagine my life without you. I was so honoured and happy when you asked me to marry you and I can’t believe that when this ceremony is over I’ll be your wife and you’ll be my husband. I love you and I can’t wait to see what life together has in store for us, but it’s going to be one hell of a ride!’

Laughter rose up from the crowd once more. While the couple sank back into their seats, Sophie’s mother stepped forward to deliver her reading.

‘When you met you were not planning to fall in love,’ Jane said, peering up at her daughter through blue-rimmed glasses. ‘You did not realise how much your love would grow, that the attraction which first brought you together would lead to you knowing that you had each found someone very special.’

As she pondered the beautifully unpredictable nature of love, Jane smiled warmly at the bride and groom, barely able to contain her pride.

‘When you met,’ she continued, ‘you had no idea where your relationship would lead you, or how beautiful you would make each other’s world. Once in a lifetime you find someone to love who touches not only your heart but your soul. Once in a lifetime you discover someone who stands bedside you, not over you. You find someone who loves you for who you are and not for who you could be. Once in a lifetime you find someone as you have found each other. And today you know, without a doubt, that the luckiest day of your lives was the day when you met.’

Applauding furiously for her mother, Sophie thrust her hands in the air. As Jane withdrew the audience continued to clap, genuinely moved by her heartfelt oration.

‘Ravinder and Sophie,’ Samantha said solemnly, ‘with each of you having made these, your declarations of marriage, and through them a solemn and binding contract with each other in my presence, the registrar’s and your witnesses and guests here today, it is my very great pleasure to declare you are now lawfully joined together as husband and wife.’

While the audience erupted around them, the registrar spoke to Rav directly.

‘Do you want to give your wife a kiss?’ she asked.

Quivering with excitement, Sophie tenderly placed a hand on her husband’s cheek as he pulled her into a long, lingering kiss. When their lips parted, the couple shared a shocked expression of amazement. As the huge significance of the moment slowly dawned on them, they remained transfixed by each other. Amidst a tumult of celebration, they revelled in the awe and disbelief of having finally become husband and wife.

While the crowd continued to clap and cheer, Samantha ushered Sophie and Rav towards the register. Under the watchful eye of their witnesses, Jiten and Polly, and with Gemma’s assistance, the couple proceeded to formalise their union in ink while the rousing notes of Pachelbel’s Canon in D filled the air.

‘You’re very well behaved ladies and gentlemen,’ Samantha said to the audience. ‘You can talk, you know?! Or is it too hot for you?’

As if they had been waiting for the registrar’s permission all along, the room rapidly descended into cheerful conversation. Meanwhile, having completed the formalities, the newlyweds found themselves fielding a flurry of congratulations and well wishes from those in the front row.

Anticipating their official photographs, the couple slipped behind the table in front of the mantelpiece. Gemma artfully arranged the register before them, expertly staging the scene while Craig readied his camera. Lifting the delicate, lace train of her dress aside, Sophie slipped into an empty seat while Rav stood behind, his hand resting gently on the back of her chair.

The couple smiled unabashedly as Craig’s camera recorded shot after shot. Their witnesses joined them, briefly flanking the couple on either side before making way for Amarjit and Jane. Overjoyed at the new addition to her family, Rav’s mother leant down to embrace the bride. Beaming at her daughter-in-law, she could hardly contain her pride.

The camera shutter continued to whir, pausing only for Pete as he slipped quietly into position alongside the others. Smiling back at the camera, he stroked his daughter’s shoulder affectionately as Craig immortalised the moment forever.

Ready to complete their final duty, Samantha and Gemma drew the couple out from behind the table and presented them with their marriage certificates. Passing the precious document to her mother for safekeeping, Sophie retrieved her bouquet and linked hands with her husband.

‘Ladies and gentlemen,’ Samantha said cheerfully, ‘I’d like to thank you very, very much for your kind attention during to-day’s ceremony. Are you going on later to celebrate?’

‘Yes!’ the audience cried in unison.

‘I like a crowd who know how to enjoy themselves!’ the registrar said, grinning back at the audience.

‘Absolutely!’ Jane shouted above the sound of laughter.

Bristling with excitement, Sophie and Rav knew that the celebrations had only just begun.

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Looking deeply into one another’s eyes, they radiated pure happiness and love as Samantha invited their friends and family to join her in congratulating the new Mr and Mrs Singh-Redman.

Carried along by frenzied applause and a jubilant standing ovation, the newlyweds swept up the aisle. With the stirring sound of jubilant trumpets and strings accompanying their every step, the couple raced towards the door with huge smiles on their faces.

‘London to New Delhi’ announced a sign on the front of the tuk tuk. Parked beneath a tall leafy tree, its presence on the cobbled square drew a string of confused looks from passersby. Brightly coloured floral garlands hung from the roof while the designated driver waited patiently nearby.

Sophie and Rav’s guests soon came spilling out on to the sun-drenched city street, grabbing great handfuls of confetti on the way. A colourful guard of honour began to form, guests’ silken saris billowing in the breeze. A gaggle of strangers settled down to enjoy the show, exchanging excited whispers as they awaited the arrival of the bride and groom.

‘It’s like a celebrity wedding!’ cried Polly, gesturing towards their newly acquired audience.

Craig and Steve stood with their cameras poised, each lens trained on the huge double door through which Sophie and Rav would eventually appear. A sudden cheer rose up from the crowd, announcing their arrival before a huge burst of confetti flew through the air. Swathes of blue and orange petals danced above the newlyweds as they walked hand-in-hand across the cobbles. Overwhelmed by the sheer joy of their friends and family, Sophie and Rav smiled voraciously, ducking beneath the onslaught of blooms as the confetti continued to fall.

‘You’re a married man! How does it feel?’ came a voice from the crowd.

Apparently too excited to speak, the groom simply grinned in response, his eyes fixed upon his beautiful wife. While Polly tended to the petal-strewn train of her sister’s wedding dress, Rav absentmindedly fiddled with the unfamiliar band of gold now positioned on the ring finger of his left hand. Behind them, Craig and Steve prepared for the formal photos, directing the crowd into position. Guests shuffled from one spot to another until the photographers were finally satisfied with the scene before them. Obediently gazing up at the camera, everyone cheered and waved.

‘Have a little smooch you two,’ Craig said, drawing the newlyweds away from the crowd.

Those watching sighed wistfully as the young lovers kissed. While Sophie and Rav embraced, a young lad appeared from nowhere, carelessly stumbling through the romantic scene.

Apparently too excited to speak, the groom simply grinned in response, his eyes fixed upon his beautiful wife. While Polly tended to the petal-strewn train of her sister’s wedding dress, Rav absentmindedly fiddled with the unfamiliar band of gold now positioned on the ring finger of his left hand.

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‘Up the city!’ he shouted as he sped away.

‘That’s right, walk straight through a wedding,’ Sophie said, her words laced with light-hearted, yet razor sharp, sarcasm. With Craig’s permission, the crowd dispersed, eagerly rushing forward to offer their congratulations anew. Holding her bouquet aloft, Sophie threw her arms around friends and family, planting kisses on cheeks as they squealed with excitement. Thrusting their phones in the air, eager shutterbugs captured a steady stream of photos.

An older chap wearing a striped t-shirt and a baseball cap appeared on the cobbles, a smoking cigarette pursed between his lips. Coming to halt in front of the bride and groom, he frantically snapped away, his unexplained presence drawing confused looks from those who stood nearby. Overcome with surprise, Rav shook hands with his colleague, confirming that he did in fact know the excitable stranger. Before the bride and groom were whisked away for more photos, the two men hugged, laughing and joking as they parted ways.

Deep in conversation with Julian, Jane spun round in startled surprise as Sophie hollered at her from across the courtyard. With the Redman family finally in position, Craig expertly captured the scene before moving on to the next line-up of guests. A skateboard rolled past as people swapped places, its owner leaning dangerously to one side in order to avoid a collision.

Posing for the camera, guests erupted as Sophie attempted to garner smiles by shouting an obscenity. Jane shot her a look of mock disapproval.

‘It tends to work,’ the bride said defensively, a cheeky smile on her face. ‘You laughed, didn’t you?!’

With every possible combination of friends and family finally captured alongside the happy couple, a handful of waiting staff appeared in the square, luring guests towards them with sweet treats and champagne. Patiently waiting to board their tuk tuk, Sophie and Rav loitered on the cobbles.

‘Darling, how fantastic do you look?!’ Viv exclaimed, throwing her arms around the bride. ‘I’ve done my homage to your wedding colours, look!’

Examining the tips of Viv’s fingers, Sophie admired her perfect orange manicure before showing off her own French tips, now accessorised with a beautiful wedding ring.

‘We will wear these rings for a very, very long time,’ she said, reaching for Rav. A contented smile spread across her face as she tenderly stroked the back of his hand.

‘Congratulations,’ Viv said as she drifted away. ‘You’re a lucky man!’

Once a handful of stragglers had made their way inside, Rav turned to Sophie and grinned.

‘Come on then Madam,’ he said, obviously excited at the prospect of racing around the city with his new wife.As the couple clambered aboard the exotic vehicle, a waitress rushed forward with a platter of chocolate-covered straw-berries. Safely ensconced in her seat, Sophie took a tentative bite, wary of staining her dress as she ate. While she finished her mouthful, Craig and Steve stood with their cameras poised, ready to capture the couple as they made their departure. Leaning out of windows on the ground floor, guests waved frantically as the engine began to roar. While the tuk tuk’s three wheels carried them on their way, Sophie and Rav waved back, huge smiles on their faces as they disappeared into the dis-tance.

Descending the staircase with great care, waiting staff carried platters and trays laden with delicious hot canapés. Beautifully arranged in ceramic spoons, guests hungrily helped themselves to the tiny morsels of food. A seating plan stood upon a wooden easel nearby, table numbers and names framed in blue and orange. Some studied the display, admiring the intricate flock motif as they sipped flutes of champagne.

In the centre of the lobby, Pete’s sisters, Liz and Janet, stood surrounded by family, drinking and chatting while Libby and Emily played at their feet. Weaving in and out of the crowd, they ambled about the space, lost in an elaborate imaginary game. Charlotte and Jamie stayed close to their parents, silently listening in on the adults’ conversation.

Although the entire Dining Room had been transformed into an extension of the Kasumba Bar, many guests grabbed their drinks and retreated outside. Eager to enjoy the warm weather, they spread out across the cobbles, a gentle breeze dulling the intense heat of the sun. The two little girls raced back and forth between the lobby and the courtyard, pausing to dance around the huge tree at the edge of the outside space. The skirt of Emily’s ivory dress billowed out around her as she twirled while Libby’s navy blue playsuit gave her the freedom to leap and jump with abandon. Pausing to quench their thirst, the children supped fizzy apple from champagne flutes, gleefully pretending they were grown-ups drinking bubbly. As the hustle and bustle of the city swept on around them, a group of guests perched on the pedestal of the old bronze statue, casually leaning on the seamstress as they drank from glasses dappled with delicate beads of condensation. Viv, Polly and Tim sat on one of the benches opposite. Surrounded by friends and family, joyous laughter punctuated almost every sentence. Pete knelt down to join the conversation while Jane stood chatting with the daughter of Amarjit’s oldest friend. Introductions were exchanged and tales of trips to India filled the air while waiting staff quietly replenished their drinks.

Pulling up in front of the historic building, Sophie and Rav’s tuk tuk came to a juddering halt. Greeted warmly by the numer-ous guests outside, the newlyweds eventually drifted in through the open door. Securing them both a glass of champagne,

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Kelly led the couple upstairs to the Ballroom with Pete and Jane. During their brief absence, a gang of Sophie’s Dutch friends assembled on the staircase for a photo, grinning wildly at a sea of smartphones before them.

‘Yay for the Dutchies!’ they cried, cheering to complete the shot.

Just as Sophie and Rav rejoined their friends and family, slipping in among the crowd with their bubbly in hand, guests were invited to head upstairs. Stealing a final furtive glance at the seating plan as they meandered past, throngs of people began to fill the staircase. Bounding towards the first floor, they inhaled the tantalising scent of savoury food that had begun to waft throughout the building.

Emerging at the top of the stairs, guests drifted on to another landing before making their way through a huge double-door and stepping into the magnificent Ballroom beyond. Imbued with the elegance and splendour of the Regency period, a soft, muted palette of sage green and gold decorated the enormous space. Paintings by Ramsay Richard Reingale filled the walls and ceilings, ethereal maidens gazing wistfully from the circular panels that contained them. Two grand chandeliers glistened above while light poured in through the vast windows that overlooked the courtyard below. At both ends of the room, ter-racotta figures stood nestled within niches on either side of an ornate stone fireplace. Huge gilded mirrors hung above the mantels, reflecting one another to create an infinite tunnel of highly polished glass.

Guests made their way to round tables decorated with bright blue runners. Tendrils of trailing green foliage cascaded from silver candelabras while sheer organza sashes, fastened in perfect, neat bows, adorned each chair. Napkins tied with blue ribbon lay upon menus, the flocked pattern of the paper peeping out from beneath the pressed linen. A miniature pair of ceramic clogs, tied together using cotton ribbon striped with the colours of the Dutch flag, greeted each guest as they took up their seat.

As people made their introductions and became acquainted with the others at their table, music from a grand piano filled the air, its lilting notes mingling with the sound of cheerful conversation. Some guests nursed drinks brought up from the bar while others quenched their thirst with the ice-cold water provided. Menus were studied and quickly transformed into fans, waved frantically back and forth in an attempt to relieve the heat.

Amarjit, Jane and Polly arrived at the top table, seating themselves behind a beautiful arrangement of flowers and flickering candles. Ivory roses, an orange lily, marigolds and blue lisianthus lay upon palm leaves spread out across the white linen tablecloth. Above the door on the opposite wall, Craig stood with his camera, ready to capture the entrance of the bride and groom. Working from an alternative angle, Steve waited patiently on the floor below while nearby Kelly and Jiten hurriedly helped guests locate their seats.

Slipping into his chair, Pete began waving at Jamie on the other side of the Ballroom. Polly quickly joined in, laughing with

her dad as the boy finally flashed them a smile. Jiten ambled towards the top table, leaning over to embrace Amarjit as he arrived. The pair quickly fell into conversation, chatting happily as they surveyed the room.

A tiered cake stood upon a small round table nearby, layer upon layer of golden sponge rising up from a tall glass stand. Finished with a fine dusting of powdered sugar, deliciously smooth buttercream oozed from within. Orange, blue and ivory blooms decorated each tier while petals lay strewn across the linen cloth below. Platters of fresh fruit and flowers added another flourish of colour while a Delft kissing couple and the newlyweds’ initials completed the scene. With everyone seated, a member of staff finally called the room to attention.

‘Ladies and gentlemen,’ she cried. ‘Please be upstanding for the new Mr and Mrs Singh-Redman!’

Throwing their linked hands in the air, Sophie and Rav burst into the Ballroom as guests leapt to their feet. Sweeping past tables on either side, they made the short journey to the top table amidst deafening applause. Beaming, the couple slid in among their family, glancing up at the crowd as the pianist began to play once more. Still bursting with pride, Pete reached out to his daughter, planting a tender kiss on her cheek.

As waiting staff poured champagne, the newlyweds posed for an array of photographs, grinning as they captured a string of excited selfies. Momentarily distracted, Sophie rushed off to move an old friend to an alternative table, thoughtfully saving him from an isolated seat.

‘You look very dapper in your suit,’ she told Jamie as she drifted past. Kneeling down, she paused to speak with Libby before returning to the top table. Mesmerised by the bride, the little girl watched as she sped away, her eyes fixed on the shimmering train of her dress.

With his Sophie seated at his side once more, Pete sprung to his feet, abruptly launching into his speech with the booming voice of an experienced school teacher.

‘A very warm welcome to you, family and friends from near and far,’ he shouted, beaming at the audience as he spoke. ‘Thank you for being here today and joining us on this wonderful occasion.’

Wrapping his arms around Polly and Sophie’s shoulders, he described how incredibly lucky he felt to have two wonderful daughters.

‘But today,’ he said, ‘it’s all about daughter number two!’

Sophie giggled bashfully as the audience cheered in her honour.

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‘Sophie, from the moment you were born, you stole my heart and I knew from the beginning that you would make us all proud.’

Racing through precious memories from his daughter’s childhood, his words painted an incredible portrait of Sophie’s viva-cious personality and her feisty attitude to life. The bride chuckled at her father’s veracious representation of her character, grinning as he tantalised the audience with his well-honed sense of humour.

‘Independence came reluctantly,’ he said, a playful glint in his eye. ‘”Sophie, it’s time you moved out and moved in with your sister,” we said. “But I don’t want to,” she said. But move out she eventually did, and the bright lights of Amsterdam did the rest. Then came London, and that’s where she really learnt to be the professional woman she is today. She worked hard, but she also played hard. Normally at the Marquis of Cornwallis!’

Sophie chuckled and a wave of laughter spread throughout the crowd.

‘But Sophie wanted to achieve more,’ Pete continued, ‘and that led her to De Montfort University.’

On the far side of the Ballroom, a solitary cheer rose up from a table filled with old friends.

‘Is that Nikita?’ Pete asked. ‘The rest....’

‘Is your fault,’ Sophie interjected, prompting a fresh eruption of laughter.

‘Is history!’ Pete corrected.

Smiling at Jane, he recalled their own time spent living and working in Leicester, marvelling at their renewed connection to the city some 40 years later.

‘Sophie is fun and loving and she recognised the same qualities in this fine young man,’ Pete said, placing his hands on Rav’s broad shoulders. ‘The first time I met Rav, it was when he helped Sophie move. This tall, handsome, young fellow simply picked up the sofa and ran down the stairs with it.’

Pete mimicked Rav’s effortless tussle with Sophie’s furniture and the audience guffawed, picturing the hilarious scene in their minds.

‘Behind this strong persona, there is a caring, romantic man.’ Pete stroked the back of his son-in-law’s head, his words and actions laced with genuine affection. ‘Who else would have flown over, on Christmas eve, to surprise Sophie with a diamond

engagement ring? Oh yes! On his knees!’Impressed by Rav’s gallant proposal, the crowd cheered appreciatively.

‘Rav has the patience of a saint,’ Pete declared. ‘And he’s going to need that for certain with my daughter!’

As the crowd laughed Sophie’s dad walked towards Rav’s mother at the opposite end of the top table.

‘Family is also very, very important to Rav,’ he explained. ‘I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the lovely Am-arjit, Rav’s mother, and the rest of his family into our family.’

Returning to his original position, Pete placed a hand on the bride and groom’s shoulders.

‘Sophie and Rav,’ he said, struggling to contain his emotions, ‘seeing you together today makes me so proud.’

Pulling the newlyweds into a swift embrace, Pete asked the audience to be upstanding.

‘Please join with me, Jane and Amarjit, raise your glasses, and wish Sophie and Rav health, happiness, friendship and love. To Sophie and Rav!’

The newlyweds beamed while all around them their guests echoed Pete’s toast, joyously knocking back mouthfuls of cham-pagne as they did. Sophie planted a kiss on her father’s cheek, grinning appreciatively as he returned to his seat.

‘Right, so it’s my turn,’ Rav said, rising to his feet. Thanking Pete for his kind words, the groom’s voice sounded somewhat unsteady.

‘I’m really nervous!’ he explained. ‘It’s the bit I was not looking forward to.’

Doing their best to encourage him, the audience smiled sympathetically. Clutching a sheet of paper in his hand and summon-ing all of his strength, Rav began by thanking those who had helped make the day possible.

‘There’s going to be a few toasts, so don’t drink the whole glass in one go,’ he warned. ‘First, I’d like to say a big thank you for coming today. We’re genuinely really touched by the effort and expense that you’ve all gone to in order to join us. On behalf of myself and my lovely wife...’

Rav’s voice trailed off as the audience drowned him out with their enthusiasm, whistling and cheering in excitement. The newlyweds grinned, equally thrilled by the sound of Sophie’s new moniker.

‘I feel so glad to have you by my side Sophie, to have found someone that I’ll always love. We get on like nothing else and the feeling of happiness I get when I’m around you cannot be described. I’m completely honoured to call you my wife. Without you, I don’t think I would be the person I am today.’

‘Unfortunately, it’s not been possible to have everyone here today,’ Rav continued seriously. ‘So, with them in mind, I’d like to do my first toast to absent friends and family.’

The sound of glasses clinking echoed throughout the Ballroom. Briefly consulting his notes, Rav launched into the next part of his speech.

‘I want to thank the people without whom none of this would have been possible,’ he said.

Turning to face Sophie’s parents, Rav expressed his personal gratitude towards them, describing the warm welcome he had received when he became a part of their daughter’s life.

‘Mum,’ he continued, spinning round to face Amarjit. ‘You’ve welcomed Sophie into our family so willingly, along with the rest of the Redmans.’

‘Yes,’ said Jane, nodding fiercely in agreement.

‘I want to thank you for what you’ve done for us,’ Rav said. Tearfully gazing up at her son, Amarjit shone with pride. Rav thanked Polly, explaining that she felt like a big sister to him too. Returning the groom’s warmth and affection, the Redmans smiled, visibly moved by his heartfelt words.

‘I’ve been told I’m not loud enough,’ Rav admitted, gesturing towards his wife.

Raising his voice above the sound of a coughing baby, the groom concluded his list of thanks.

‘He’s pretty useless,’ he joked, playfully praising his best man. Allowing the banter to wash over him, Jit smiled at his old friend.

‘Right,’ Rav said with renewed vigour. ‘Now I get to talk about the person who made this day possible. As you can see from the colours of our invitations and my suit, this girl comes from Holland.’

With a nostalgic smile, Rav led the audience through a series of sweet recollections, starting with the moment he had first met Sophie.

‘I said no more than four words to Sophie that night, I couldn’t talk to her at all,’ he explained. ‘I made sure that the next time I saw her, I spoke to her for the whole night. I stayed with her, tried to get to know her, and then after that, for the whole date, we went to the library to study. Sophie got loads of work done, but I did absolutely nothing.’

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Completely absorbed by Rav’s account, the audience let out a hearty chuckle.‘After that,’ he continued, ‘I took her to a motorway cafe for a hot chocolate.’

‘Ha!’ Pete bellowed. ‘Romantic Rav!’

‘It did the job!’ he countered, an expression of mock indignation flashing across his face. ‘Then I drove all the way round Leicester to drop her home!’

‘I didn’t know where I was going anyway!’ Sophie interjected, prompting a fresh wave of laughter among the crowd.

‘I’m glad Sophie decided to talk with me in the library,’ Rav said confidently, ‘because that’s what brought us here today.’

The bride nodded, looking up at her husband with the loving smile of a true soul mate.

‘I think we can all agree that she looks absolutely amazing today.’

Grinning bashfully, Sophie watched as the audience showered her with applause.

‘I was hoping that would be true,’ Rav said playfully. ‘I did write this a week ago!’

The crowd guffawed and the groom smiled, obviously pleased with the joke’s reception.

‘On a serious note,’ he said, waiting for the noise to subside, ‘I feel so glad to have you by my side Sophie, to have found someone that I’ll always love. We get on like nothing else and the feeling of happiness I get when I’m around you cannot be described. I’m completely honoured to call you my wife. Without you, I don’t think I would be the person I am today.’

Enthralled by Rav’s obvious love and devotion, the audience hung on his every word.

‘I can’t wait for the rest of our lives together to begin,’ he concluded. ‘Please can everyone raise their glasses to the most important person here today, to the woman that made this all possible, my beautiful wife Sophie!’

As thunderous applause filled the vast Ballroom, Rav indicated that guests could finally drain their glasses.

‘That it?’ asked Pete.

‘That’s it!’ Rav replied.

‘Oh thank you!’ cried Pete, raising his glass as the crowd whistled and cheered.

Leaning down, Rav kissed his wife tenderly. Quickly removing his jacket, a sense of relief seemed to wash over him as he finally relaxed into his seat.

A wave of conversation swept through the room as the pianist resumed, filling the air with music. Spurred into action, a flur-ry of waiting staff rushed forward with bottles of wine and jugs of fruit juice. Plates loaded with melon and parma ham salad soon arrived from the kitchen and those in the Ballroom fell upon the food with gusto. Downstairs in the Drawing Room, younger guests met the nannies who had been charged with their care. Flitting from one exciting activity to the next, they frolicked and played while their parents relaxed. As the starter gave way to a main course of pan-fried duck breast served with fondant potatoes and a medley of seasonal vegetables, the Ballroom grew loud with the sound of cheerful conversation and laughter.

Having polished off generous portions of Eton Mess, Sophie and Rav’s guests began to congregate in the Dining Room downstairs, wisps of steam dancing above the hot cups of tea and coffee they clutched tightly in their hands. Stripped of its chairs and the registrar’s paraphernalia, the space had been transformed into the ideal setting for after-dinner drinks.

Staff in the adjacent bar tended to a thirsty crowd, pulling pints and pouring spirits as quickly as they could. Smartly dressed in a three-piece suit complete with blue bow tie and an orange pocket square, Sophie’s high school friend, Diego, chatted with a gang of Rav’s old college pals. Looking back on a multitude of fabulous memories as they sipped their drinks, they all agreed that it felt very strange watching Sophie and Rav celebrate something that had once seemed so grown-up.

Billowing among the shimmering green leaves of the tree outside, a gentle breeze swept into the Dining Room through an open window. Daylight had begun to fade, enveloping the city in the soft, hazy glow of a warm summer’s evening. Helping himself to coffee, Rav clinked cups with an old friend, leaning nonchalantly against a table as they discussed the day’s events. Amarjit watched intently from the edge of the room, quietly sipping her own hot drink while her son mingled with the crowd.

Sophie’s elegant high heels could be heard tapping across the lobby’s mosaic tiled floor as she swept into the bar, the train of her dress resting casually in the crook of her arm.

‘I must get Simmy a drink,’ she said, sauntering through the crowd.

Jamie, Libby and Emily raced past, heaping themselves on to the Dining Room carpet with glee. Laughing wildly as they leapt across the floor, they soon trailed back to the Drawing Room in search of a new game.

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A gaggle of friends and family had filtered on to the street outside, their majestic saris and Indian suits painting the cobbled courtyard with a rainbow of colour. Tucked away amidst the crowd, Annette sat perched on a bench, reminiscing with Tony about her teaching days and the 38 year friendship she had shared with Jane.

‘I’ve known Sophie all her life,’ she said with authority. ‘In fact, Jane found out she was pregnant when we were staying with her and Pete!’

Mingling with the crowd’s excited chatter, the muffled whooshing sound of balloons inflating drifted out into the courtyard. Hidden inside the lobby, a gang of helpers produced a seemingly endless supply of red and white heart shaped balloons. Laughing and joking as they completed their task, Leon and Diego playfully bopped each other on the head between mouth-fuls of beer. Another group of friends sorted through a pile of props, holding up moustaches on sticks and tiny bow ties while another round of drinks arrived from the bar.

As a steady stream of evening guests filtered in from outside, some of Rav’s family prepared to leave. Grabbing Steve and his camera, the groom urged his mother to pose for a few final photographs. While the camera flash popped repeatedly, Sophie embraced Simmy and Noori nearby, showering the little girls with attention.

Pushing their way through the crowd, Pete and Jane arrived to say their own farewell. Bending down to speak, Sophie’s father offered Simmy a red balloon. A drowsy smile spread across the little girl’s face as she accepted his gift. Nestled in her mother’s arms, she appeared close to sleep as the group made its way outside. Waving furiously, Sophie and Rav watched as their relatives departed, disappearing from view amidst the radiant glow of what would soon become the most spectacular sunset.

Golden light poured in through the windows of the Dining Room, setting its muted decor ablaze as another flurry of evening guests joined the festivities. Sophie drifted gracefully through the room. Pausing to greet new arrivals and catch up with old friends, she seemed intent on soaking up every moment as the evening ebbed steadily away. Chatting nearby, Rav’s words echoed his wife’s actions.

‘I’m trying to take it all in,’ he explained. ‘I want to stop and enjoy it all before it’s over.’

His companion nodded. Watching the newlyweds whizz from one whirlwind conversation to another, he could easily under-stand the challenge they both faced.

Suddenly desperate for a moment’s reprieve, Sophie slipped out of her vertiginous heels and padded barefoot among the

crowd. Spotting her discarded Manolos and instantly reminded of the famous scene from Sex and the City, a fellow guest bent down on one knee as if to propose. The bride giggled wildly, throwing her head back to laugh as he slipped the blue shoe daintily on to her foot as if it were an engagement ring upon her finger.

‘Hey, look at this Rav!’ an onlooker cried, mock horror emblazoned across their face.

The crowd erupted, laughing heartily at the witty duo and their perfect execution of the familiar film moment.

In the bar next door, Craig and Steve fumbled with laptops and cables, plugging various wires into numerous outlets on a large wall-mounted TV. Peering up at the screen as they ordered their drinks, guests watched the photographers expectantly. When the screen finally flickered to life, images of the day so far began to fade in and out of view, prompting excited squeals from the audience below. Buoyed by their enthusiasm, Craig slipped back into the fray, his camera flashing constantly as he continued to document the occasion.

As the evening wore on and the drinks continued to flow, guests relaxed further and further into their surroundings, loos-ening ties and abandoning jackets. Some sat perched inside the Dining Room window, frantically waving their wine glasses as they chatted animatedly. Polly and Adrian discussed the weather, marvelling at the intense heat that showed no signs of abating. Sophie sat beside Jit, her weary legs casually stretched out before her as they talked.

Glancing at her watch, Jane encouraged guests to return to the Ballroom upstairs. As she marshalled the troops, a crowd of rowdy gatecrashers suddenly slipped past security. Emboldened by beer, the topless youths rushed through the lobby, turning swiftly on their heels as Sophie and her mother herded them away. Reprimanding the boys with a tirade of harsh discipline, the two women laughed as the pathetic gang scampered back outside, their bolshie egos thoroughly bruised.

As the commotion died down and staff hurriedly restored order, Sophie and Rav’s guests made their way to the Ballroom, each step upon the staircase tinged with excitement as they looked forward to dancing the night away.

The frenzied beat of loud bhangra music reverberated throughout the cavernous Ballroom. Cloaked in darkness at the edge of the newly formed dance floor, guests struggled to restrain themselves, tapping their toes and shaking their hips as they waited patiently for the bride and groom. The DJ’s colourful lights whirled and twirled, casting patterns of light on to the room’s majestic decor. Old portraits in gilded frames lined the walls, their subjects watching over the revellers below.

‘Can I have your attention ladies and gentlemen,’ the DJ shouted into his mic.

While the music faded to almost nothing, he welcomed the crowd in a jubilant voice. Guests cheered in response, barely able to contain their excitement.

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‘Woah, you’re a lively bunch!’ he said. ‘We’re going to have a good time! Are we ready?’

As another huge cheer rose up from the crowd, a dhol drummer swept into the room, pounding his instrument with rhyth-mic precision. His grand entrance complete, the sequins and beads adorning his traditional clothes jostled frantically as he thwacked each end of the dhol, creating a sound that thrummed in the ears of all who listened.

Dancing wildly in his wake, Sophie and Rav shimmied on to the floor, their shoulders jerking back and forth in time with the beat. The crowd erupted as the couple threw their arms into the air, expertly performing an array of dazzling bhangra moves. Swishing the train of her dress from side to side, the bride twirled round and round on the spot, spinning towards her husband as he leapt from one foot to the other.

Pulling Sophie into his arms, Rav planted a passionate kiss on her lips. Their bodies entwined, the throbbing sound of the drummer’s music pulsated between them. Lost in the steady beat of the ancient instrument, the moment seemed to trans-port them far from The City Rooms to a place where all they could think of was each other.

Carried along by the music, the newlyweds soon found themselves on the other side of the Ballroom. As the drummer flamboyantly delivered the final beat of his song, the crowd went wild. Their faces flushed with a combination of heat and excitement, Sophie and Rav slipped seamlessly into position beside their magnificent cake. Knife poised, they beamed at Craig’s camera before pressing the silver blade into the sugary, golden sponge.

Sophie swayed from side to side as new music began to blast out of speakers nearby. Carefully removing a slice from the bottom tier, she fed Rav a morsel of cake, licking crumbs from her fingers while he chewed. Rav attempted to return the gesture and Sophie laughed as he gently shovelled the confection into her mouth.

While the audience cheered, the DJ retrieved his microphone, promising to get the party started. As guests swarmed the dance floor and traffic swept along the busy city streets outside, the reception quickly descended into the joyous celebration it had always been destined to become.

Surrounded by the people they cherished most, and with their hearts pounding as fast as the dohl drum they had danced to, Sophie and Rav slipped steadily into their first night as husband and wife. As the couple prepared to embark upon the next dazzling chapter in the story of their lives, those who had witnessed their colourful union knew they had found something truly special in each other.

The End

Written by The Wedding Reporterwww.theweddingreporter.co.uk