Don’t tell the (grandmother of the) bride! Care home residents surprised with recreation of granddaughter’s wedding

Wedding bells were ringing at a care home in Eye, after two residents were surprised with a visit from their recently married granddaughter and new grandson-in-law, after being unable to attend the big day.

Husband and wife, Norman and Shirley Howard, who both live at Care UK’s Hartismere Place, on Castleton Way, were unable to accompany granddaughter, Chloe and now-husband, Reece, on their special day, so the team at Hartismere Place decided to bring the wedding to them instead. 

Chloe and Reece arrived at the care home, dressed to impress in their wedding outfits, where the home’s lifestyle team had pulled out all the stops with a special afternoon tea in the garden – complete with prosecco to toast the happy couple.

Shirley said: “I couldn’t believe it – it was like Christmas had come early! We had the best day and I’m so glad we got to see them both.”

Norman added: “It was a wonderful surprise. Chloe looked beautiful as ever, her dress was gorgeous, and Reece looked so smart!”

Claire Martin, Home Manager at Hartismere Place, said: “We were delighted to be part of such a wonderful surprise for Norman and Shirley. It was incredibly difficult to keep the plans a secret, but so worthwhile to see the huge smiles on both of their faces!

“It was an afternoon filled with emotion, with the happy couple thrilled, and Norman and Shirley beaming with pride. We’re pleased to have been able to play a part in ensuring they were able to be part of such a special family milestone, and wish the newlyweds all the best in their future as a married couple!”

Hartismere Place has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential, residential dementia, as well as short term respite care.

To find out more about Hartismere Place, please contact Customer Relations Manager, Angela Hodge, on 01379 888276, email angela.hodge@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/hartismere-place.