Wedding couple create history

When he got down on one knee and proposed to girlfriend Claire Bowler, little did Julian Harris realise that the couple would become part of the history of one of Exeter’s most prestigious properties.

The couple, who are due to tie the knot on August 27, will be the first to marry at the newly-refurbished Rockbeare Manor.

The property, which was built in 1760, has undergone a sensitive restoration over the last 18 months and opened its doors as a wedding and events venue this summer. Claire and Julian’s wedding will be the first to take place in its 250 year history.

The couple met when they both worked for Higos Insurance in St Thomas. Julian recently completed a three-year course and is a chartered insurance broker. Claire now works for Blue Arrow recruitment in Exeter.

Beaches are a recurring theme in the couple’s romance. Their first date was at Dawlish and Julian, 31, popped the question on Bantham beach at the end of a week’s holiday touring the beaches of Cornwall. This also continues into the theme of the wedding as all of the tables are named after beaches the couple have visited, along with sand and shell centrepieces.

Claire, 29, said they were thrilled to be part of Rockbeare Manor’s story.

She said: ‘We heard about Rockbeare Manor through a friend, at that time it was right in the middle of being refurbished, and even though the work wasn’t done, we could see what an amazing place it was and knew it was right for us. We didn’t look at any other venues - we just knew. I said we have to get married there, it’s beautiful - I just fell in love with it.

‘It has been great fun planning it, we are doing lots ourselves and we have really been able to put our stamp on the whole wedding.’

Aimée Spencer, Director of Events at Rockbeare Manor, said: ‘We are thrilled to be hosting Claire and Julian’s wedding. Our team has been working so hard to bring this beautiful house back to life and create the perfect wedding venue. Our first few events have been brilliant and we have such an experienced team behind us that I know their wedding will be amazing.’

For more information about Rockbeare Manor visit the website at www.rockbearemanor.co.uk or call 01392 797444.