By Bryony Jewell
Copyright evoke
Actress Rita Simons is on cloud nine after saying I Do to her theatre star love Ben Harlow in a dreamy barn wedding.
The EastEnders legend, who played Roxy Mitchell, was joined by her loved ones and showbiz pals on the big day, including good friend Blue singer Duncan James, who had a very special role in the festivities.
Putting a twist on traditional bridal style, Rita opted for a flowing strapless dress with a long train and statement removable sleeves for her wedding day, which was covered in a pretty floral pattern.
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Rita wore her blonde hair down and styled in relaxed waves, a perfect style to match her boho gown, and completed her look with a white headpiece.
Sharing a few photos from the wedding, Rita said: ‘I can’t even put into words how special our day was…mostly because we have the most incredible bunch of humans who love us unconditionally and who were prepared to travel to @hiddenriverbarn [in Cumbria] from all over the world to share our day.’
‘We love you all. You know who you are …sorry there’s gonna be a ton of pics to follow,’ Rita continued.
Snaps show newlyweds Rita and Ben smiling as they walk around their venue’s grounds and groom Ben placing a kiss on his new wife’s head while standing next to a river.
Other glimpses at the wedding reveal Blue star Duncan’s special role on the day, with the singer tasked with the special job of walking Rita down the aisle.
Duncan was honoured to be included in the ceremony, commenting on Rita’s post to say: ‘Thank you to you and Ben for such a wonderful wedding. So happy to be part of ur special day. Post to follow soon.’
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After walking Rita down the aisle, Duncan had another important role to play and it seems he helped entertain the guests in the evening.
Videos shared on Instagram show Duncan and Rita on stage and performing a duet for the wedding guests, who happily sang and danced along with them.
Other well-known guests are thought to have included Rita’s EastEnders co-stars Samantha Womack and Larry Lamb, according to MailOnline.
Rita and Ben met in 2017 when they both performed in the musical Legally Blonde and were friends for a few years before things turned romantic.
Before her romance with Ben, Rita was married to Theo Silveston for 14 years.
They separated in 2018 and are parents to twin daughters, Jaimee and Maiya, who were bridesmaids at their mum’s wedding.
