Inspired by the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, Danny-Sue and Dominik planned a wedding with just a €10,000 budget but a whole lot of heart. “Dominik used to read Alice in Wonderland to me in the evenings when we were getting to know each other,” Danny-Sue explained. “It felt right to reflect the story in our wedding. We wanted an enchanted garden vibe with vintage, old-English charm—a non-birthday party for us as a couple.”
This theme, paired with their rockabilly style, leaned into the vintage illustrations of Alice rather than the modern interpretations. Guests were also encouraged to wear hats and headpieces, adding to the Mad Hatter-inspired atmosphere.
As Danny-Sue is religious but Dominik is not, they decided on a ceremony set up that made them both comfortable. They had a Catholic priest, who is an old family friend, officiating. Danny-Sue was walked down the aisle by her uncle while Dominik arrived accompanied by the Baywatch theme!
One of this couple’s main struggles during their planning was finding their outfits. With the bride being plus size and the groom 6’3″, it meant they had to think outside the traditional bridal boutique box. Danny-Sue explains, “I send Dominik to a tailor, who do customised suits. He had to go several times for fittings but it turned out so beautifully. For me, my only option was a plus size bridal shop. I spoke to them about what my dream dress would look like and she found it! Sadly the sample I tried on was still was not in my size, but I was able to try on other gowns that fit me.”
Without a seating plan, guests mingled freely throughout the reception. Their handmade decor brought the theme to life, from the signposts to the candy bar and the tea cup and saucer centrepieces, all of which the bride made herself. Danny-Sue also created the invitations, her 3D printed headpiece and the sleeves for the cupcakes.
“Set yourself a budget and add another third to it”, the bride concluded. “It will always be more expensive than you think. But just do your thing – it’s your party and your love!
