Les Heaps and Debbie Bradshaw, both 49 and residing in Birchwood, recently celebrated their long-awaited wedding day, marking the beginning of their journey as Mr. and Mrs. Heaps. The couple shared their heartwarming love story and detailed their special day with us, bringing to light the joy and magic that surrounded their union.
Meeting in July 2021 at a rugby event where Les coached Debbie’s son’s team, their relationship blossomed quickly, leading to their official start as a couple in August of the same year. Reflecting on their first encounter, Debbie fondly recalls her initial impression of Les as quiet, funny, and with “great legs,” while Les knew from the moment he saw her that Debbie was the one he wanted to spend the rest of his life with.
After a year of growing together and building a strong bond, Les decided it was time to take the next step in their relationship. In October 2021, he orchestrated a romantic proposal at home, complete with a candlelit meal and a heartfelt declaration of his love for Debbie. His gesture set the stage for what would become a beautiful and unforgettable wedding day for the couple.
On Saturday, August 24, amidst the picturesque setting of St. Peter’s Church in Formby, Les and Debbie exchanged vows in front of their closest friends and family. The ceremony was a culmination of their love story, a moment they had been eagerly anticipating and cherishing. Following the heartfelt ceremony, the newlyweds, along with their guests, proceeded to The Royal Clifton Hotel in Southport for a joyous reception filled with love, laughter, and celebration.
As the morning of their wedding day unfolded, both Les and Debbie experienced a mix of emotions. While Les felt nervous yet excited to see Debbie, his hands and legs trembling with anticipation, Debbie remained calm and collected, eagerly awaiting the moment she would walk down the aisle to her beloved. The day was filled with emotional highs and heartfelt moments, culminating in a beautiful union that left a lasting impact on all in attendance.
With approximately 70 to 80 guests in attendance, the wedding reception at The Royal Clifton Hotel was a lively affair, complete with a delectable buffet for all to enjoy. The couple’s first dance to Shane Filan’s “Beautiful in White” set the tone for the evening, with the lyrics resonating deeply with Debbie and Les as they twirled around the dance floor, lost in the moment of their newfound union.
Speeches brought tears to the eyes of both the couple and their guests, as heartfelt words of love, admiration, and well-wishes filled the room. Debbie’s surprise speech for Les, expressing her love and gratitude, touched his heart and further solidified the bond they shared. The day was filled with cherished memories, from the first kiss as husband and wife to the heartfelt exchange of vows that sealed their commitment to each other.
Dressed in a black and grey top hat and tails with a pink cravat, Les looked every bit the dashing groom, while Debbie stunned in a dress adorned with glitter tulle, black roses, and ribbon, a testament to her unique and elegant style. The couple’s outfits reflected their personalities and love for each other, adding to the magic and beauty of the day.
Looking ahead to the future, Debbie surprised Les with a honeymoon to Turkey, scheduled for October, a thoughtful gesture that further solidified their commitment to creating lasting memories together. Their shared sense of humor, love for music, and similar values have been the foundation of their relationship, with both Les and Debbie acknowledging the deep love and care they have for each other.
In closing, the couple expressed their gratitude to family and friends who shared in their special day, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Les and Debbie’s wedding day was a testament to their enduring love and commitment to each other, a celebration of their journey together and the beautiful future that lies ahead for Mr. and Mrs. Heaps.