Double celebration for bride who gets married and graduates on the same day

An LJMU graduate has celebrated two of life’s huge milestones by getting married and graduating – all in the same day! 

History of Art and Museum Studies graduate, Charnele (Nele) Washbourne, 33, from Bournemouth, married her partner of 10 years, Bradley Natt, at Liverpool Town Hall at 1pm.

The duo then dashed across the city so Nell could cross the stage, in full wedding dress, cap and gown attire, at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, and graduate alongside her peers. 

It just makes the day even more memorable and special  

On choosing to graduate and get married on the same day, Charnele said: 

“It was a wild and unlikely coincidence that the two coincided. The reason we decided to get married this year, after a seven-year engagement, was to celebrate all of our big life events. It’s been a turbulent few years for me and my family, so we wanted to celebrate our achievements in a big way.  

“It’s crazy that the two ended up within 3 hours of each other but if felt right that they both happen on the same date and it just makes the day even more memorable."

And Nell’s partner and groom Bradley Natt was fully onboard with the idea. 

“Brad is incredibly supportive and has been ever since I decided to go to university as a mature student. He loves that we get to celebrate all of life events and achievements, which makes our day even more memorable and special.” 

Celebrating in style 

Planning a wedding while finishing her degree, has been a time management and logistical challenge but the newlyweds are looking forward to celebrating with their loved ones with a reception at the Botanical Garden in Baltic, with everyone from Charnele’s course invited to join and mark their own achievements too! 

So, what’s next for the newly wed and graduate? 

“I’ll be planning a good night’s sleep to begin with and then we’ll be heading on our mini moon.  

“Jobwise I’m currently working at LJMU’s Exhibition Research Lab and I’ll be looking for other roles in Liverpool relevant to my studies. 

“I joined LJMU as a mature student and have zero regrets. it was hard to return to education after several years in a career in design and construction, but it has been one of the most rewarding experiences I've had. The tutors are fabulous, and the course has been so interesting. I was lucky enough to do an internship at the Guggenheim in Venice and to work/volunteer with so many art programmes around Liverpool. I’ve met amazing people, and LJMU has been a hub for some of the best experiences.” 

Monday at graduation

Charnele was among more than 800 graduates who received awards at Liverpool Cathedral on Monday 20 July.

Monday's graduates were from:

• The School of Education
• The School of Humanities and Social Science
• Liverpool School of Art and Creative Industries