Golfer Nick Faldo said “I do” for the third time on Saturday, when he married 28-year-old Valerie Bercher. The couple chose the unusual setting of Mosimann’s Belfry, a restaurant in London, for the civil ceremony, which was held in front of about 20 of the couple’s family and friends.
The three-times British Open and US Masters champion, 44, had wanted the ceremony to be in a pseudo-Roman temple at his 18th century home, Dower House, in Old Windsor, Berkshire, but local councillors put the kibosh on that idea. Instead, Mr and Mrs Faldo held their reception there, with the London Gospel Choir entertaining the 110 guests.
After making their vows, the couple emerged from the restaurant to bright sunshine. Wearing a crocheted halterneck dress by Nicole Godat, the Swiss PR executive said that the day was “very emotional” and “everyone was crying.” When asked how it felt to be Mrs Faldo, Valerie said: “It feels great, it feels absolutely awesome.”
The golf maestro was somewhat less forthcoming than his new bride. As the couple climbed into their BMW Z-8 cabriolet, Nick was asked if he felt nervous before the ceremony. “Of course,” he replied tersely. Valerie continued: “I’ve never seen him so nervous before.”
The couple are expected to jet off to the Caribbean for their honeymoon.
One person who did not make it to the ceremony was Nick’s caddy, Fanny Sunesson, who had her own wedding to attend. She tied the knot with US golf club technician Eric Rogers.
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