Couple get tattoos on wedding day at Hidden River Barn, Carlisle

Courtney, 28, and Scott Bell, 26, from Whitehaven, stuck to the theme of 'matching' through to their wedding day after they 'matched' on Tinder in 2018.

Two years later, mechanical engineer Scott knew Courtney was the one and planned a magical proposal for her on their staycation.

Electrical engineer Courtney recalls: "We went on a night away to Windermere on  December 21 in 2020, and  Scott proposed at The Belsfield Hotel with a whole room full of balloons, flowers, champagne. The room was all set up for us checking in, and he got down on one knee and popped the question.

"Two years later, our big day arrived. We got married on November 18 2023, at 1:30 pm at the Hidden River Barn in Carlisle in front of 96 guests.

"There was no set theme, but we had nods of autumnal/bohemian vibes with a hint of the Lord of the Rings.

"Scott's best man was Tom Irving; his ushers were Lewis Bell and Owen Cunningham. By my side, I had my maid of honour, Philip Woowat, my bridesmaids Ellen Simmonds, Sophie Bell, and Lilly Cunningham and my flower girl Arwen Freya.

"After the ceremony, we had canapés while the photos were being taken, and once the speeches were over, we had an amazing three-course meal.

"The reception was held on the barn's lower level, which was perfect for the wedding we wanted!

"Our first dance was 'You Had Me At Hello by A Day to Remember.

"Then we ended the night with a fantastic band and DJ set by South West Band and ate our stunning three-tiered semi-naked cake. The flavours were vanilla, chocolate, white chocolate and passionfruit.

"The whole day was amazing, but getting matching tattoos was definitely my favourite moment, and guests taking part in a mosh pit to the likes of nirvana. 

"We are now enjoying our honeymoon in Jamaica!"

Who helped on the day?

Photographer - Esme Whiteside Photography

Videographer - Michael Shepherd

Mobile tattoo van - Megan Bell from Whitehaven

Flowers - Yard Flowers

Cake -  Sally Cooper