Bridport couple (literally!) tie the knot

Bridport couple Simon and Joanna Deverell celebrated their marriage in an idyllic country setting in 2018, with specially created Bridport rope playing a prominent part in the ceremony.

Around 300 guests congregated on Joanna’s uncle’s farm in Netherhay on 30^th June to witness the humanist celebration, with spectacular views of the surrounding hills and countryside. 100 of them camped overnight in marquees, tents, motor homes and even a genuine shepherd’s hut. The bride was driven to the venue on a gleaming tractor.

To symbolise their lasting commitment, the happy couple’s wrists were bound together with a length of rope made of golden twine, and created especially in Bridport Museum by the groom’s mother Linda.

Linda, who has been a Museum volunteer for 4 years, regularly demonstrates rope-making on its Victorian rope-jack made by HN Harris of Bridport.

“I thought it would be a fabulous way of bringing even more depth and meaning to their vows”, said Linda, “It also reflected their love of the town’s traditions and history. We created a very fine and delicate twist which they will treasure as a family heirloom.”

Simon and Joanna also “jumped the broomstick” – a tradition which comes from Wales. The bride’s mother chooses how high the broomstick should be held from the ground, and a successful jump is the sign of a long and happy marriage. Joanna’s mother Caroline was pleased to report a safe landing!