A couple who were forced to postpone their wedding due to the Coronavirus pandemic got ‘half married’ at home – with their dogs as best man and bridesmaid.
Jacqui Paterson and fiance Tony Hughes, both 34, had been looking forward to their big day on April 15.
But the coronavirus pandemic forced them to push the celebrations back until September.
However, the couple held an informal ceremony at home where they exchanged vows – accompanied by their Daschund puppies, which acted as best man and bridesmaid.
Jacqui, a professional wedding photographer, ordered a sequined gown online, so her other dress, which is still in the shop, will remain a surprise for the September wedding.
They now consider themselves to be ‘half married’ – after exchanging rings, but there was no order of service or walking down the aisle.
Jacqui said: “We just wanted to do something to commemorate the day.
“I am a wedding photographer so I just wanted to take a few photos of us together.”
The couple, from Shieldhill, Falkirk, met on a dating app a year-and-a-half ago, and planned their wedding for six months after getting engaged.
But the Coronavirus pandemic forced them to cancel their original plans.
Jacqui said: “We decided to cancel a month before our wedding date.
“We swiftly realised that a lot of our friends wouldn’t make it from overseas.
“The lockdown then followed.”
However, they still made the most of their special date – with pet dogs Max, aged five, and Lola, aged two there to celebrate with them.
Jacqui said: “They are always well behaved.
“We are looking forward to the official date even more now.”
They spent the day drinking champagne and relaxing at home, after having a wedding breakfast, while Jacqui, who has her own wedding photography business, Chic Photo by Jacqui, took snaps using her camera and a tripod.
She even did the washing up in her gown, which she bought from Asos especially for the occasion.
Tony, who works as a tour manager, added: “Jacqui looked beautiful and seeing her for the first time as a bride took my breath away.
“I can’t wait for our real wedding in September in front of everyone we love.”
The couple hope to tie the knot officially at Inglewood House, in Alloa, Clackmannshire, on September 30.
