Kate and Christopher standing stylishly in front of a retro 'The Trailer Park' sign at The Giraffe Shed, wearing vibrant outfits with colourful sunglasses – a modern, alternative wedding portrait.

Kate and Christopher’s love story began a whole decade ago at a raucous university party in Newport, Wales. Their connection was electric from the start – think laughter, late-night deep chats, and a spark that refused to fizzle out.

Fast forward ten years, and we’re on Salt Creek Beach, California, under a blazing sun. This is where Chris decided to pop the big question. Knowing Kate wasn’t one for sparkly rings (shock horror!), Chris planned a proposal with a personal twist.

“Instead of an engagement ring, Chris gave me a basket filled with my favourite things,” Kate grins. “Inside was a Swarovski crystal raccoon – my absolute fave animal! I was so excited I didn’t even hesitate to say yes!”

After the tears and cheers, they soaked up the sunset together, sparking the inspiration for their entire wedding vibe.

Close-up of Christopher adjusting his pastel patterned tie while wearing a bright blue suit on his wedding day at The Giraffe Shed – showcasing his colourful and creative groom style.

Christopher posing confidently in a bright blue suit under disco balls at The Giraffe Shed, embracing a fun and stylish groom look with bold colours and playful vibes.

A Space to Make Your Own

Despite a two-year engagement, it took the pair 18 months to actually start planning. Once they got the ball rolling, the venue was top priority – enter The Giraffe Shed in Tregynon, Wales.

They knew they wanted a space that screamed personality – relaxed, fun, and a complete blank canvas to make it their own.

“The Giraffe Shed ticked every box,” the pair explains. “It’s such a cool mix of modern meets laid-back – lofty hexagonal roof, floor-to-ceiling glass wall, and all the industrial barn vibes. We just knew it was our spot the minute we walked in.”

Exterior view of The Giraffe Shed wedding venue in Tregynon, Wales – a rustic, industrial barn-style space with wooden doors, surrounded by scenic countryside.

Colourful graffiti-painted container at The Giraffe Shed, featuring bold artwork and the phrase 'Be Excellent To Each Other' – adding a quirky, modern touch to the alternative wedding venue.

Morning Prep Mayhem

Wedding mornings are always a bit of a whirlwind, and Kate and Chris’ was no exception. Kate and her sister shared some serious sister bonding while getting glammed up.

“My sister did my hair, and we topped it off with some glitter hairspray – because why not?” laughs Kate.

Meanwhile, Chris and his mates kicked back with beers and banter. To make the day even more special, some of the guests rocked outfits designed by Kate herself – a personal touch that made the day feel that bit more magical.

Bride Kate getting ready for her wedding at The Giraffe Shed, wearing matching celestial-themed pyjamas with her sister, sharing a bonding moment during morning prep.

Bride Kate getting her hair styled on her wedding day at The Giraffe Shed, wearing a custom-made pastel dress inspired by the Californian sunset, while her sister, dressed in a celestial gown, adds the finishing touches.

Wedding Wardrobe Wonders

Kate’s creativity shone through her bridal look – literally. She designed her dress using bespoke-printed fabric based on a photo of the Californian sunset. The floaty, ethereal gown featured pockets (because practicality!) and was topped off with a lilac tulle veil, Vans, and a floral comb.

Instead of a bouquet, Kate opted for a statement fan featuring artwork by her fave artist, Elora Pautrat. Chris didn’t shy away from colour either, rocking a bright blue suit, a printed shirt with sunset hues, and a pair of embroidered Vans. Oh, and a Simpson’s watch for that playful pop!

Custom hand-painted Vans trainers with colourful berry illustrations, surrounded by pastel confetti – a unique and personal touch for Kate's alternative wedding at The Giraffe Shed.

Sunset Skies and DIY Decor

The whole wedding vibe was inspired by that unforgettable California sunset. Think dreamy pastel hues with a neon twist – blues, purples, and pinks everywhere. From pastel drapes and wisteria arches to mushroom-filled table settings and a doodle canvas for guest art, it was creativity overload in the best way.

Guests gathered outside The Giraffe Shed for Kate and Christopher's wedding ceremony, enjoying the rustic barn venue and scenic Welsh countryside under a bright blue sky.

Stunning ceremony setup at The Giraffe Shed featuring a floral circular arch with pastel wisteria, dreamy draped fabric, and hanging cloud decorations – a whimsical and romantic wedding scene.

Kate and Christopher exchanging vows at The Giraffe Shed, standing in front of a vibrant floral arch with pastel wisteria, under large windows streaming natural light – a romantic and colourful wedding ceremony.

Epic Eats and Dancefloor Drama

Post-ceremony, the good times kept rolling with welcome drinks and Japanese street food (Sandos and Gyoza – yes please!) by Tokyo Nights. Later, bao buns made an appearance, keeping the party fuelled and fabulous.

The couple’s first dance to ‘Essence’ by Oliver Tree hit different – confetti cannons burst just as the beat dropped, filling the room with colour and chaos. Iconic.

Kate and Christopher leaving The Giraffe Shed after their wedding ceremony, walking through a vibrant shower of pastel confetti, surrounded by cheering guests – a joyful and colourful wedding exit.

Ice-filled vintage pink bathtub used as a drinks cooler, filled with colourful craft beer cans, adding a quirky and laid-back touch to Kate and Christopher's wedding at The Giraffe Shed.

Newlyweds Kate and Christopher relaxing in a vintage pink bathtub at The Giraffe Shed, sharing a playful and laid-back moment after their colourful wedding ceremony.

Moments That Made It

From sneaking off to chill in a bright pink bathtub with a beer in hand to letting loose with colourful smoke bombs by Enola Gaye, every moment felt perfectly ‘them’. Even the little hiccups – like forgetting cake plates – only added to the laid-back, anything-goes vibe.

Their advice? Forget traditions if they don’t feel right. Just make it yours, and whatever you do, get confetti cannons. Total game changer.

Find more creative wedding inspiration at The Un-Wedding and discover unique suppliers in the Book of Love directory.

Suppliers Venue: The Giraffe Shed

Photographer: Mark Horton

Catering: Tokyo Nights

Confetti: Flutter Darlings

Smoke Bombs: Enola Gaye

Nail Technician: Terri Otti