On 8 February 2025, Old Ipswichian Freddie Raymond married his wife, Hannah (née Prentice), in a celebration full of love, creativity, and Old Ipswichian spirit. The wedding took place at the beautiful Ash Barton Estate in Devon, and was attended by family, friends, and a wonderful gathering of fellow OIs.

Left to Right: Daniel Grunwald, Liam Buckley (OI 1999-15), James Paternoster, Maris Munro (OI 2008-13), Sion Bentley, Chandos Hoskyns (OI 2008-15), Hannah Raymond, Freddie Raymond (OI 2006-15 ), Ellie Hunt, James Burn (OI 1999-15), Lucy Farrant (OI 2010-13), Sophia Nayakshin, Charlie McAllister (OI 2008-15).

Freddie attended the OI reunion at The Vintry in London, where he was encouraged to send photos and details for the journal. What followed was a flood of joyful images that capture the unique atmosphere of the day. Freddie and Hannah poured extraordinary thought and creativity into every part of their wedding. Around the venue were cardboard statues symbolising key moments in their relationship and guests were greeted with tiny 3D-printed versions of the same. These were gathered into a box by friends and family during the ceremony, out of which emerged the couple’s wedding rings - a symbolic and memorable ritual.

Other personalised details included a magnificent croquembouche, paper and crochet flowers for the bridal party, a knitted QR code giving access to the wedding Spotify playlist, and even a giant knitted cloak bearing the letter “R” for Raymond. In one of the unique moments of the day, Freddie wrapped the cloak around Hannah at the close of the ceremony — a gesture symbolising their union. The couple also prepared their own home scavenged and dried confetti, and sent out delightfully unusual pop-up invitations to set the tone in advance. The celebrations unfolded across every corner of the Ash Barton Estate. Freddie and Hannah exchanged vows privately in the pool, before holding their public ceremony in the chapel surrounded by family and friends. The reception followed in the house, with a ceilidh in the big barn bringing music and dancing to the evening. Guests were treated to cauldrons of sausages and vegan jambalaya, followed by speeches, fireworks, and a night that had, in Freddie’s words, “no bed-time”!

A large number of OIs joined Freddie and Hannah for the celebrations, particularly from the Class of 2015. Among the wedding party was Freddie’s brother, Will Raymond (OI 2002-09), pictured among the groomsfolk, and his uncle, Simon Raymond (OI), who attended Ipswich a generation earlier. The photos also show many familiar OI faces enjoying the festivities, a testament to the lasting friendships forged at school. 

From its thoughtful handmade details to its lively, joyful atmosphere, Freddie and Hannah’s wedding was truly a day to remember. We are delighted to share a selection of Freddie’s photographs, which capture not only the beautiful setting but also the warmth and camaraderie of the occasion — with Old Ipswichians at the heart of the celebration.