First Wedding Ceremony Takes Place At Cefn Sidan
A wedding celebration has taken place on Cefn Sidan sands for the first time in its history.
The sun shone on David and Elaine Northey as they became the first couple to renew their vows at the outdoor venue, surrounded by their family and friends.
The Hawaiian themed event included a marquee for the reception set in the grounds of Pembrey Country Park, a giant inflatable slide, donkey rides, a rodeo simulator and fairground rides.
The couple from Aberdare are currently honeymooning in Pembrey Country Park campsite, cycling and sightseeing in the area.
David said: “I love Pembrey Country Park, I’ve been coming here for 30 years and it was the one and only choice for us.
“We wanted something different, and the staff and team at Pembrey were fantastic and went out of their way to support us on our special day.
“The event was two years in the planning and everything went without a hitch, everyone who came thoroughly enjoyed.
“The facilities were outstanding and we cannot thank everyone enough.”
One of the guests said: “It was a wonderful day and an absolutely fantastic location. The weather was beautiful, on days like that who needs the mediterranean when we have this on our doorstep?”
Carmarthenshire County Council’s registration service performed the ceremony and helped organise the day.
It is one of many spectacular locations now available for couples to renew their vows outdoors in the county.
Other locations planned for wedding celebrations include Pendine beach and the lighthouse at Burry Port Harbour.
Although it is still not legal for weddings to be performed outdoors in the UK, the legal process is held at another venue, usually at one of the register offices, then a celebration is held at the outdoor location.
Many hotels also hold the legal ceremony privately indoors with just a couple of witnesses then repeat the process outdoors in front of guests.
Carmarthenshire’s registrars organise the occasions as part of an extra service they are now offering.
Executive board member for the registration service Cllr Mair Stephens said: “More and more couples are choosing to take their vows at outdoor locations, and our registration service is happy to accommodate this.
“There are so many wonderful places across Carmarthenshire, people are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a venue for their special day.”
Leisure executive board member Cllr Meryl Gravell added: “Cefn Sidan is one of the most spectacular locations in Carmarthenshire, if not Wales, it is the perfect place for people to enjoy their perfect day.”
Spotted something? Got a story? Email News@News.Wales
