Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash's DIY Wedding: A Non-Legal Celebration at Pickle Cottage
Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash have been thrust into the spotlight following reports that their stunning 2022 wedding was not a legally binding ceremony. The Loose Women star and former EastEnders actor shared their big day extensively on social media, showcasing a deeply personal and homemade affair at their historic home, Pickle Cottage. However, it has emerged that the property, being a private family residence, could not host a legal wedding, requiring the couple to register their marriage elsewhere—a step they reportedly never completed due to life's busy demands.
The Unofficial Ceremony and DIY Touches
Despite the lack of legal formalities, the wedding was a memorable event filled with celebrity guests and heartfelt moments. Stacey and Joe exchanged vows in the grounds of Pickle Cottage during the summer of 2022, surrounded by closest friends and family. The celebration featured numerous DIY elements, including:
- A welcome sign crafted by the couple.
- Guest favours costing just 65p each.
- Petal pop-ups and homemade decorations.
- Stacey even dyed her own hair on the day, adding a personal touch.
Notable attendees included Stacey's Loose Women colleagues and James Argent from The Only Way Is Essex, who performed with his band. The garden was transformed with a Greece-inspired pergola, pink and white roses, and fairy lights, creating a magical backdrop.
Family Moments and Personal Details
The wedding was rich with family involvement and unique details. Stacey's eldest son, Zachary, walked her down the aisle in a sweet mother-son moment. For her daughter Rose, then nine months old, Stacey created a dress from off-cuts of her own wedding gown and DIY glittery bows for her shoes. Stacey also shared changes to her wedding ring, switching from a silver to a gold band to better match her style, with stones rearranged for a dainter fit.
In terms of setup, the couple reportedly used tables, chairs, cutlery, and plates from Ikea, all of which were later donated to charity. Stacey expressed in an Instagram Story that they opted for a "relaxed private blessing" instead of a legal ceremony, as Pickle Cottage could not obtain a civil ceremony licence due to its private nature.
Aftermath and Public Reaction
Sources indicate that Stacey and Joe intended to register their marriage after the wedding but never found the time. The event, however, remains a cherished memory for the couple, emphasizing love and family over legalities. Stacey described feeling overcome with emotion in her wedding dress during a fitting, highlighting the day's significance despite its unofficial status.
This revelation has sparked discussions about home weddings and legal requirements, with fans admiring the couple's focus on personal touches and sustainability. The story underscores how celebrities often blend public and private lives, creating celebrations that resonate beyond traditional norms.
