There was just no way that the rain was going to let up, despite the ‘rain dances’. On reflection, maybe a rain dance was just encouraging the rain… No matter, Emma and Ian were married in the beautiful Hawkshead Church, and both were radiantly happy, despite the weather. Typically the rain ceased just as the guests were due to go up to the Indoor Marquee for the Wedding Breakfast, so things were a little delayed by Emma and Ian jumping into their shiny red TR4A, and going to Esthwaite Water for photos. There was an opportunity for group photographs in front of Belmount, and then food was served. The food was an important part of the event, and a lot of thought had gone into the menu choice. There were two courses not on the usual Belmount menu:- a starter of Morecambe Bay potted shrimps, served warm on crostini; and a main course of Salmon en croute with watercress and spinach pesto, served with a light Hollandaise sauce. Ian was delighted with the result! Classic Jumping Jenny puddings – Sticky Toffee Pudding with hot fudge sauce; and ‘Aunt Grace’s Pavlova’ individual meringues – shockingly large – served with cream, summer fruits and a raspberry coulis completed a superb menu. There were many generous compliments about the food, and Ian was grinning from ear to ear… (“..best day of my life..”). Emma was on Cloud Nine, and delighted with the peonies and roses around the rooms, all from Belmount’s garden. Today, the sun is shining…, just as Emma and Ian travel to the South of France for their honeymoon. Bother, eh?