White infinity logo on a light blue circle.

Converse, Cocktails and a leap year proposal - Julie and Jason's super-relaxed Civil Ceremony

Couple black and white image smiling at each other

Some love stories simmer quietly in the background for years… and then, one day, they bubble up into something undeniably perfect. That’s exactly what happened for Julie and Jason, who first met through mutual friends in their twenties. They remained in each other’s orbit as friends until life finally nudged them together — and thank goodness it did. 

Julie and Jason Ipswich Town hall kissing in hall

The leap-year proposal

You probably know the leap‑year rule — that wonderfully old-school tradition claiming women can pop the question on 29 February. It started in Ireland centuries ago, and while no potential bride needs an excuse to make the first move nowadays, it's nevertheless a bit... iconic.

In any case, Julie brought the date forward and popped the question on Valentine's day. Jason said yes and so the scene was set for this wonderfully relaxed wedding:

Couple with bouquet outside Ipswich Town Hall

A One‑Month Wedding Plan at Ipswich Town Hall

Ipswich Town Hall wasn't actually the first choice for their wedding venue: with the reception planned at Jason's sister's home in Felixstowe, the couple had their sights set on Felixstowe Town Hall, only to discover it was fully booked for their date.

As fate would have it, a shopping trip in Ipswich led to an impromptu viewing of our beautiful ceremony room at the Town Hall - and the rest is history!

With zero interest in tradition for tradition’s sake, and a clear idea of what mattered most, things moved quickly: Julie and Jason took only one month to organise their big day.

 

Ipswich Town Hall weddings – Pickwick Room 

We decided that we would have a simple small wedding with family and close friends. We wanted to be relaxed and comfortable, so started the theme from my favourite footwear, Converse All Stars, and the colour of Jay's best suit, dark blue, and we went with that.
Bride and Groom beneath the Ipswich Town Hall during their Suffolk registry office wedding
Bride and Groom relaxing together with their teenage son after their Ipswich Town Hall wedding

A Wedding Day That Included Everyone

True to form, the wedding day was wonderfully relaxed: "We all took a taxi to the venue and had pre-drinks in Mannings Public House next door to the Town Hall. Family members were our witnesses and we played our favourite songs for the ceremony. To include family abroad we set up a WhatsApp live stream, before returning to Felixstowe for a gorgeous reception party afterwards." 

"Such a genuine couple who it was our pleasure to marry and be part of their special day. There was a French connection, so we were joined online by family in France, which made it even more special. It was one of those weddings that we will both remember for the special connection the couple clearly have"
Suffolk Registration Service logo white infinity symbol on teal circular background
Lisa Brooks, celebrant
Bride and Groom with their teenage son outside Ipswich Town Hall

Tips for Future Couples

Best piece of advice for couples planning a wedding?

Just be yourself and don't worry so much about the small details, most things fall into place. Let friends and family help when they offer, it makes everyone and everything feel even more special.

What’s worth splurging on?

Having your hair done, flowers and great food.

How do you minimize stress on the day/run up to the day?

Allow yourself time and accept help when offered.

Beautiful bridal bouquet in spring pastel colours on black leather sofa

Team on the day:

Venue: Ipswich Town Hall

Celebrants: Lisa Brooks and Teresa Le Mare, Ipswich Register Office

Photographer: Family and Friends

Videographer: Family and Friends

Mua: Bride!

Hair: Tec-Nyqs, Felixstowe (Instagram: @tec_nyqs)

Flowers: Leah at Leah Louise Floral Artistry (Instagram: @leahlouisefloralartistry)

Catering: Sister-in-law

Music: Spotify playlist

Bridal dress: Kiss Dress Hire (Instagram: @kissdresshire)

Groom’s wear: 20yr old revamped suit. Accessories: Next 

Julie and Jason Ipswich Town hall heart glasses

Planning a Wedding Like This?

Yes, it's absolutely possible to plan a wedding on a short timeline.

If you’re considering a Suffolk Registry Office wedding or a wedding at our beautiful approved venues, these guides will help you decide what’s possible and what to do next:

Quick links for curious couples