Emma’s Nature-Inspired Wedding in the Equinox Dress & Kerry Veil
A Joyful, Nature-Inspired Wedding in Colchester: Emma Wears the Equinox Dress & Kerry Veil by Halfpenny London
Images by Alexander Stevens
Emma St John’s Halfpenny London journey began with a simple question: How do you want to feel on your day? Her answer? Free, barefoot on the grass, laughing, heels kicked off, moving between friends and family, and the love of her life, Matt.
That clear vision guided every decision, including her search for a dress that felt relaxed, not “too bridal,” but still beautifully special.
Working with Halfpenny London’s expert stylist team, Emma was able to create a look that was perfect for the joyful, nature-filled celebration that took place on her family’s land in Colchester, England.
THE DRESS
Emma chose the Equinox dress - a clean, elegant silhouette that felt effortlessly her. “It sounds weird, but it was the perfect shade of white,” she said. With its strapless design, it struck just the right balance between unique and understated.
It was the Kerry veil that sealed the moment. “As soon as it was placed on my head and wrists, I knew! This is it!” Emma remembers. “Everyone I showed had the same reaction: ‘Wow, I’ve never seen anything like that before.’”
Emma first discovered Halfpenny London through a friend who’d recently married, and “wished she’d known about it sooner!” She plans to treasure both pieces forever, dreaming of turning the dress into a christening gown, or finding new ways to keep them close.
“Everyone I showed [the veil] had the same reaction: ‘Wow, I’ve never seen anything like that before.”
THE DAY
Set on their family’s land, the couple created a space that felt off-grid, earthy, and authentic. Despite the unpredictable English weather, the day arrived with sun and a breeze, and their dream of an al fresco celebration came beautifully to life.
They built a glamping village, complete with showers and sinks. Emma’s father, a South Devon beef farmer, supplied local meat, cooked Asado-style over open fire by the talented The Vargas Bros. Guests dined on tomato tapenade, padron peppers, and Argentinian grilled mains with vibrant salsas and fresh salads.
The details were where Emma and Matt poured their hearts in. They hand-embroidered napkins as place cards, and Emma designed and printed all the stationery. They grew plants, foraged foliage from their own trees, and created homemade desserts. “It was a lot of work,” Emma says, “but it meant we had complete control over the final look. And honestly, I wouldn’t have changed a thing.”
Emma, thank you for sharing your joy, your creativity, and your vision with us. We’re thrilled to have played a part in bringing your dream look to life.
CREDITS
Bride: Emma St. John | @em_st.j
Groom: Matt St. John
Photography: Alexander Stevens | @alexanderstevensphotography
Coordinator: Olivia Rose Weddings | @oliviarose.weddings
Dress + Veil: Halfpenny Equinox dress & Kerry veil with flower appliqué
Flowers: Emma’s Mum
Cake: The Hazlebury Kitchen | @thehazleburykitchen
Catering: The Vargas Bros | @thevargasbros
