WEDDINGS New York proposal for Nicola

The Couple: Nicola Banner-Martin, 31, an account manager from Caerphilly, and David Dickens, 32, a product manager from Woking, Surrey. The Venue: Nicola and David married at Canada Lake and Lodge, Creigiau, on May 13. How they met: The couple met in September 2004 on their first day at Reading University.

Nicola said she recalls David asking “are you Scottish?” on their first meeting. He could definitely detect an accent. “As a proud Welsh girl I wasn’t instantly impressed by his charm or chat up lines,” said Nicola.

“But over the next few months we got to know each other better, and 13 years later here we are.” The proposal: David proposed in February 2016. He bought Nicola tickets to New York for her 30th birthday but was planning a secret proposal at the same time with the help of Nic’s sister Sarah.

The actual proposal took place in Central Park, on a quiet bench, near a frozen lake.

Nicola said: “Dave got lucky, as New York had just had snow!” The wedding: “Having rained all day the previous day, the weather looked ominous for the wedding,” Nicola said.

“But, to our surprise, we awoke to sunshine on the day which helped show Canada Lake and Lodge in its full glory.”

The bride said the day itself went like clockwork.

About 75 guests travelled from far and wide, and everyone loved the stunning location overlooking the lake.

“When we first got engaged we really wanted to have a small intimate wedding, but we’re so glad we had everyone there to make the day so enjoyable,” she added.

“Canada Lodge and Spiros [catering] were fantastic throughout the whole day making sure everything went to plan.

“I also want to give a special mention to our superb photographer and DJ husband and wife duo, Catherine and Steve Wiggins, who captured some great memories and kept everyone dancing all night.” The honeymoon: The couple spent a few days in West Wales following the wedding, but they’re also planning a honeymoon in Argentina later on in the year.