Blackpool's Festival House hosts first socially-distanced wedding

But the easing of lockdown restrictions came just in time for their wedding, which they had been planning well before Covid-19 hit.

They were the first couple to marry at The Wedding Chapel at Festival House since the start of lockdown as new wedding restrictions came into force on Saturday.

For Nicholas and Dainora, it was the best day they could have hoped for.

It was a much scaled-down version of their original plans and it meant that extended family and friends, including Nicholas’ sister who lives in Bangkok, couldn’t be there for their big day.

But they were determined to go ahead.

Nicholas, who is from Kirkham, met Dainora, who is originally from Lithuania, through their work as civil servants.

Nicholas, 41, said: “Fate stepped in really with the first day of lockdown restrictions being lifted, being the actual day we had planned to get married.

“We had originally looked at July 3, so the fourth was certainly meant to be.

“Up until a week ago we were thinking it was getting a bit close to the day and time was beginning to pass but as soon as they announced we could go ahead on July 4, we got in touch with Festival House to see what we needed to do to make it happen – and they have been fantastic.”

Guests socially distanced as the ceremony got underway and in the absence of a best man, the registrar took care of the rings, wiping the box before opening it. The bride and groom pulled the rings out of the boxes themselves.

“The registrar said it was surprising how it was not much different to normal really,” said Nicholas, “There was lots of room for everyone.”

Children Milena, four, and Matthew, two, played a part in the proceedings too.

Nicholas added: “They were unbelievably amazing, Matthew walked down the aisle and then found himself a seat to sit on – he was so good.”

They couple left the building at the side entrance and after quick confetti throwing, socially distanced of course, they headed to Nicholas’ dad’s house for a small celebration in the garden.

Dawn Titherington from Festival House said: “It was so lovely to open our doors and do our first ceremony since lockdown.

“The team were so looking forward to it. Everything went according plan and whilst extra measures have been put in place to ensure everyone was safe, this didn’t impact the ceremony in any way.”

Dainora, who said they were planning a bigger celebration when restrictions are lifted, said the day had been “amazing”.

Due to government guidelines restricting the number of guests who can attend a ceremony, The Wedding Chapel has installed a streaming service which will enable family and friends who can’t be there to watch the full ceremony live from the comfort of their own home. Visit The Wedding Chapel for more details.