Wedding of Bethan and Joseph – a Family Affair

Every marriage is, of course, a family affair. However, the wedding of Bethan and Joseph was especially so. Keep reading, and all will be revealed.

Wedding of Bethan and Joseph

On Saturday, 29th July, 2023, Denbigh & District Male Voice Choir continued their wedding season with attendance at the wedding of Bethan and Joseph. The atmospheric venue on this occasion, the local and historical St Marcella’s Church.

Following their visit to one of the choir’s practice nights, their long awaited special day had arrived.  Fortunately, the weather was good and they were blessed with glorious sunshine.

Bethan, a Textile Designer and daughter of Philip and Dilys Williams, and Joseph, an Economics Teacher and son of Nick and Hilary, were eager to ‘tie the knot’.

First Family Affair Connections

Not content with one,  Joseph, unusually, had two best men. Both were his relatives, Harry and Tam.

Moreover, one of Bethan’s bridesmaids was her niece, Catrin.

The Wedding Service

Anticipation was building as eager guests started arriving early.  The choir’s usual short warm up, prior to their performance, was appreciated.

Arriving guests were entertained by the choir performing a number of songs especially selected by Bethan and Joseph.
The evergreen love song ‘Myfanwy, our own Sam Pritchard‘s arrangement of four Welsh folk songs ‘Medli’, ‘Bridge over Troubled Water, and ‘You Raise Me Up‘, each enjoying enthusiastic applause.

Also included in the selection was ‘Anfonaf Angel’ (Guardian Angel), a new addition to the choir’s repertoire. Music composed by Robat Arwyn and words by Hywel Gwynfryn, this item is sure to become a favourite selection for future weddings.

Bethan walked down the aisle to the strains of ‘Prelude from Te Deum’, following which the service was commenced by Reverend Jane Finn, Vicar of Denbigh.

The Gathering and Introductions over, a short address was made by Reverend Canon Philip Williams.

Philip was the faithful, long serving and much loved Vicar of Henllan, Llanefydd and Bylchau prior to retirement.

During his address, Philip thanked the Bishop of St Asaph for having granted him a licence enabling him to assist at the wedding.

The first congregational hymn, ‘Love Divine All Loves Excelling’ followed.  The singing almost raising the roof.

Prior to the marriage, the choir performance of Robat Arwyn’s ‘Benedictus’ was well received.

Father Marries Daughter

Well, yes and no.  Philip conducted The Marriage of Bethan (his daughter) to Joseph. A further poignant family affair.  Of course, he didn’t actually get married to Bethan!

The joy and emotion of the experience evident on Philip’s face at the conclusion.  A family moment in time to be treasured forever by father and daughter.

During the signing of  The Register the choir performed the traditional rousing hymn ‘Calon Lan’ and ‘Llanfair‘.

Bethan and Joseph left the church to the rousing strains of ‘Men Of Harlech’.  Preparation to face the battle and surviving the ‘confetti walk’.

Traditional photographs of the happy couple followed. The spectacular scenery of the Vale of Clwyd forming a perfect backdrop.

Thank You

Denbigh & District Male Voice Choir would like to thank Bethan and Joseph for kindly allowing us to be part of your very special day. We hope you enjoyed our contribution.

We wish you both good health, wealth and every happiness in your married life together.

The choir would also like to thank Reverend Canon Philip Williams for his kind comment during his address.

Having listened to and enjoyed the choir performing so much as guests arrived, Philip advised us that we should increase our fee!!!  Not a comment we normally receive but one very much appreciated.

Book the choir for your Wedding

If you are planning on getting married, and would like Denbigh & District Male Voice Choir  to be part of your special day, you can make enquiries or book the choir by visiting our Book the choir for your event web page.

You may also wish to read this Why Book Our Choir for Your Wedding