the story so far

Last year, what began as a simple scroll through LinkedIn turned into something far more meaningful when Tara came across a photo of Peter.

She paused. She smiled. And then she hesitated. Should she reach out? With a mix of curiosity, courage, and something she couldn’t quite name, Tara sent a simple message: “Hi.”

What followed was anything but simple.

That one small word opened the door to a flood of memories, emotions, laughter, and past conversations that suddenly felt as natural as ever. The connection we once shared hadn’t faded - it had simply been waiting. And as emails and talks turned into something deeper, it became clear that this was no ordinary reconnection.

Because that one quiet “hi” soon became - 

“How about forever?”

And just like that, two paths that had once diverged found their way back together - stronger, wiser, and ready for a love story that was always meant to be.

Twenty-four years after we first met and fell in love, we’re finally getting married. Our story has taken a few unexpected turns along the way, but somehow it has brought us back to each other - and we couldn’t be happier to celebrate what comes next with the people we love most.

During the last year, we set out to make up for lost time, savouring every moment together. 

Our adventures took us from the dazzling skyline of Dubai to the charm of Portugal, magic of Scotland and England, then onward to the breathtaking beauty of Norway - where, on a private beach along a fjord beneath the dancing Northern lights, Peter got on one knee and asked Tara to marry him (without hesitation, she said “Yes!”).

From there, our story took us to Japan to celebrate Tara’s 50th birthday, then back to the US, Portugal, and England, and then to the vibrant landscapes of South America. Our list of future destinations is long and we look forward to decades of adventuring together!

 Peter’s UK-based company, Novagram, established a US subsidiary to expand into the American market. While he remains deeply committed to his business in the UK, he is excited to explore the opportunities and potential offered by the thriving US market. 

Tara loves being part of the BW Energy team, having a distinguished career of more than 25 years in maritime and oil and gas law. She finds her work both fulfilling and inspiring, and embraces each new challenge with the same passion that has driven her throughout her life.

At times over the years, we have each been a source of guidance and support for one another. Today, that unwavering support is a constant source of strength, pride, and partnership between us.

For itinerary and other information:

On Friday, we invite you to join us for a special evening together - an opportunity to gather, unwind, and begin this celebration in the best possible way. The evening will start with a dinner at The Ivy, where we look forward to treating you to dinner, wine, and the simple joy of being surrounded by people we hold dear.

More than anything, this evening is about bringing together our friends and family, many meeting for the very first time. It is a chance to connect, to share stories, and to discover the wonderful, varied group of people who have shaped and supported us along the way.

Before the evening’s festivities, guests are invited to enjoy a restful day or explore the many delights of St Albans - from walking tours and spa visits to exploring Verulamium Park, the Verulamium Museum, and the splendor of St Albans Cathedral. You might also want to check out the volume of pubs in St Albans as this place has more pubs per capita than anywhere else in the UK! Just don’t go to Ye Olde Fighting Cocks as that is strictly reserved for the night’s events!

At 4:30pm, let’s meet for drinks in the bar at St. Michael’s Manor. And just before 6pm, we will walk through the park to Ye Olde Fighting Cocks - a charming old pub and the location for the evenings celebrations. 

For this special night, we have taken over the entire pub and its garden, creating a space just for you to gather, celebrate, and enjoy the moment. An eight-piece band will fill the air with music, food and drinks will flow freely, and there may even be cigars in the garden if the weather cooperates!

This evening promises to be full of laughter, dancing, and unforgettable memories. The attire is “come as you wish” which means there is no dress code. We will be in jeans, so please feel free to be as casual (or not) as you like!

So, rest well beforehand… it’s going to be a fabulously fun - and wonderfully late - night. 

Situated just beyond the bustle of London, the timeless city of St Albans feels as though it was made for love stories. With its cobbled streets, centuries-old architecture, and quiet, enduring beauty, it carries a sense of history that whispers through every corner.

At its heart stands the magnificent St Albans Cathedral - a place of reflection, grace, and breathtaking beauty. Its ancient walls have witnessed countless moments of devotion over the centuries. Surrounding the cathedral, the city unfolds into charming streets, cozy corners, and the peaceful greenery of nearby parks.

For us, St Albans is more than just a destination - it is a place that captures the spirit of our journey: rich with history, filled with meaning, and quietly, beautifully enduring. It is here, that we celebrate the beginning of our marriage - surrounded by love, history, and the promise of forever.

Tucked quietly within the historic heart of St Albans, St Michael’s Manor is a place of timeless beauty - where elegance, history, and serenity come together. 

Surrounded by five acres of lush gardens and overlooking a peaceful lake, the manor feels like a hidden sanctuary, steeped in charm and gentle romance. With roots that trace back centuries, it carries the quiet grace of the past while offering an intimate and welcoming setting - perfect for moments that matter most. 

Found in Verulamium Park, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks feels like a place where time lingers a little longer. Reputed to be the oldest pub in England, its low wooden beams, uneven floors, and glowing hearth carry centuries of stories - of laughter, gathering, and moments shared over candlelight and conversation.

There is something quietly magical about it. Perhaps it’s the way history settles into every corner, or the way the soft hum of voices and clinking glasses create a warmth that feels instantly familiar. It is the kind of place where strangers become friends, and where memories are made.

So, raise a glass, and celebrate together with us in a setting that has welcomed so many before.