She’s admitted that she never thought she would get to be a bride. But last week, Stacey Solomon finally married Joe Swash in a romantic ceremony, followed by big party at the couple’s Pickle Cottage home.
Joined by close friends, family and children Harry, 15, Zachary, 14, Leighton, ten, Rex, three, and nine-month-old Rose, Stacey – who wore a customised gown with a bodice top, tulle shoulder straps and full-length veil – became Mrs Solomon-Swash and told her guests that all her dreams had come true.
But as she posted pictures of the special day, she revealed it was tinged with sadness as Joe’s dad, who passed away when the former EastEnders star was only 11, was in their thoughts.
On a montage of photos, Stacey, 33, wrote on Instagram, “Forever. Me and My Husband. I don’t think I will ever get used to saying that. It all feels like a dream. ‘You know you’re in love when you don’t want to fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams’. Dr. Seuss.”
She added, “The most special day that we didn’t ever want to end. We love you all and the special community we’ve built on here so much, and couldn’t wait to share these moments with you. Joe lost his father at the age of 11 and so did my dad. A huge part of our wedding day was reflecting on how this had a huge effect on them and how hard it is, even to this day to deal with.”
To honour Stacey’s wishes, heat made a donation to a charity that supports bereaved children, as she went on to say in the post, “These memories are so special to us and it would mean the absolute world to us if they made a difference to children growing up with the loss and heartache that my father and my husband did. Thank you for respecting our wishes. Lots of love Mr & Mrs Solomon-Swash.”
Joe’s dad Ricky passed away from Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome after living with an undiagnosed heart condition, and Stacey recently spoke out about how Joe, 40, will never get over his loss.
“It’s a trauma and I’m always surprised that people are surprised that you grieve forever,” she said. “Joe lost his dad when he was 11 and it had a fundamental impact on his life, especially when huge life events happen – even if they are positive.”
But the couple made sure their day was filled with happiness as they celebrated their love with a blessing in the grounds of their Essex mansion, before legally marrying. Guests included Stacey’s BFF Mrs Hinch and Loose Women co-stars, while ex-TOWIE star Ricky Rayment was one of Joe’s best men.
And our insider says everything went to plan beautifully. “Stacey and Joe couldn’t stop smiling and they didn’t want the day to end,” the source explains.
“They had been planning this day for months and still can’t believe how lucky they are. They’re now looking to the future as the Solomon-Swashes. Stacey can’t believe that she finally got her fairy tale”. Congrats!
