Zoé & Wes, a perfect laid back wedding
A Laid-Back Love Fest: Inside the Funky Wedding That Broke All the Rules
A few weeks ago, I attended a wedding that was as relaxed as it was fun. I know the couple, Zoé and Wes, worked hard behind the scenes to make it perfect; laid-back doesn’t happen— it takes a few spreadsheets to make a wedding laid-back!
Forget white tablecloths and four-course meals—this couple said “I do” in a way that was uniquely them. Picture this: a funky, intimate music venue pulsing with personality, the hum of laughter over a grazing board the size of a small stage, and the unmistakable aroma of wood-fired pizza wafting through the air. This was no ordinary wedding—a celebration of love, music, and food done right.
Instead of a traditional banquet hall or countryside manor, the couple chose a quirky live music venue in Macclesfield's heart. Button Warehouse is a fantastic venue. Think exposed brick, vintage lighting, velvet sofas, and many quirky original features. It’s the kind of place where you expect to stumble upon the next great band—or, in this case, the most incredible love story.
With a built-in stage and sound system, the venue was made for celebration. No need for fussy décor—the place comes preloaded with character. Add a few strings of fairy lights and wildflowers in mismatched vases, and the space transforms from an underground gig haven to a romantic boho dreamland.
Instead of a sit-down dinner, guests enjoyed a massive grazing board that looked like a still life painting come to life. Overflowing with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, warm breads, pickles, and dips invited everyone to gather, chat, and nibble at their own pace. It was interactive, informal, and flavoured—just like the couple themselves. The Button Warehouse provided superb food, which I highly recommend.
Ditching the idea of a DJ or string quartet, the couple booked a local soul and funk band, The Solar Flares—a lively, energetic party band. Their vibrant covers of classic hits and soul favourites added the perfect soundtrack to the evening. Everyone danced, and the bride looked stunning on the dance floor in her Beyoncé cowboy hat.
There were no strict timelines or formal speeches—just moments that unfolded naturally: a toast here, a spontaneous dance there, hugs, photos, and a whole lot of Cava-filled joy.
This wedding wasn’t about impressing anyone—it was about sharing—sharing their favourite music, their favourite food, and their favourite people, all in one space. It was intimate without being stuffy, joyful without over-planning, and a celebration of real life and real love—messy, musical, and utterly magical.
I love cake—any cake, from carrot to fruit. I am a cake fan, so you can imagine my joy when the cupcakes arrived and tasted as good as they looked: moist, creamy, not too sweet, just perfect. I was in Cake Haven; they came from Cherry Blossom Bakery. Zoé was adamant that she wanted everything locally sourced when she planned the wedding. This attention to detail made it all the more special.
Just as the partygoers were flagging from too much dancing and Cava, the pizzas arrived: fresh Margheritas with basil still sizzling, pepperoni, and mushrooms—no seating plan, waiting, or forks required—just good food, hot and ready, served with laughter.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s less about rules and more about rhythm, take a leaf from this couple’s playbook. Pick a place that makes you feel alive, feed your guests like they’re at your house for a party, and fill the room with the sounds that move you. The result? A relaxed, unforgettable day that hits all the right notes.