Meet the winners of The Lost Village of Dode's first Elopement Wedding Giveaway

A bride and groom smiling at each other while sitting at a table

Credit: Matt James Photography

In a heartwarming celebration of love and resilience, The Lost Village of Dode, one of the UK’s most enchanting and secluded wedding venues, proudly hosted its first-ever Elopement Wedding Giveaway winners, Helena and Andrew, on 21st December 2024. The couple tied the knot in a magical winter solstice ceremony, surrounded by the atmospheric charm of The Lost Village of Dode’s ancient chapel, just days before Christmas.

Some love stories are written over decades, and Helena and Andrew’s journey is a beautiful testament to the enduring power of connection. After meeting in a pub in Enfield on Helena’s 30th birthday, the couple has shared 24 wonderful years together, building a life filled with love, family, and cherished moments. While they had often talked of marriage, the idea of a big wedding never felt right. But when Helena stumbled upon our Elopement Wedding Giveaway on Instagram, she knew instantly that The Lost Village of Dode was perfect for them.

“It instantly struck a note with me,” Helena shared. “The venue looked absolutely amazing, and it was an elopement wedding — just perfect in every way. I entered the competition straight away, and my entry was written in a few minutes. It came straight from the heart.”

A bride and groom walking down the aisle

Credit: Matt James Photography

A venue that felt like home
The Lost Village of Dode’s charm captured Helena’s heart before she even stepped foot on its grounds. “The Lost Village of Dode is just beautiful — the photos don’t do it justice. When I first walked into the church, I cried instantly. It’s so special, I cannot put it into words,” she said. From the historic chapel with straw on the floor to the peaceful grounds and exclusive-use cottages, everything about Dode felt like it was meant for them.

The couple’s private and simple lifestyle made The Lost Village of Dode’s intimate setting even more appealing. “We’ve always valued the simple things in life — time with family, our animals, and each other. This venue brought all of that together in the most beautiful way.”

Personal touches to honour their loved ones
Helena and Andrew’s wedding day reflected their love and values perfectly. The couple honoured those they’ve lost by incorporating meaningful touches into their ceremony. They brought photos of Andrew’s late parents, Shirley and Peter, and their beloved dog, Dougal, to raise a glass to their memory. Helena also wore diamond earrings gifted to her by her late father-in-law, a touching tribute to the love that spans generations.

Of course, the couple’s current furry family members – dogs Bobbi, Pepsi, and Betty – were part of the celebration, dressed in custom corsages made by Helene’s friend Charlotte.

A black and white image of a bride and groom walking hand-in-hand in a field

Credit: Matt James Photography

A stress-free day
For Helena, the simplicity and inclusivity of The Lost Village of Dode made the experience stress-free and enjoyable. “The team at The Lost Village of Dode, especially Becky, has been absolutely amazing. I haven’t had to do anything because I’ve been guided so easily. It’s been completely stress-free.”

The couple’s ideal wedding day was exactly what they envisioned: understated, meaningful, and shared with those who matter most. After their ceremony, they celebrated with a cosy meal in the cottage catered by one of The Lost Village of Dode’s long-term caterers, The Flying Pig Kitchen, followed by games, hot chocolate, a soak in the hot tub, and a champagne toast — a perfectly intimate way to mark their special day.

A message to other couples
To couples considering The Lost Village of Dode for their wedding, Helena’s advice is simple: “DO IT! It’s inclusive, beautiful, steeped in history, private, has stunning grounds, and is animal-friendly. It’s truly magical.”

Helena and Andrew’s story is a reminder that love takes many forms, and every relationship is unique. As Helena says, “Never compare your relationship to others. Love can be shown in many different ways, and your journey is as individual as you.”

Helena and Andrew’s suppliers
Venue: The Lost Village of Dode

Photographer: Matt James Photography

Catering: Flying Pig Kitchen

Bridal bouquet and buttonholes: Moody Bloom Florist

Sparkling wine: Silverhand Estate

Ready to plan your dream wedding?
Visit www.dodevillage.com/weddings to learn more about its bespoke wedding packages.