Molly Hutton, a 92-year-old grandmother from Somerset, was finally treated to the hen night she never experienced – a full 70 years after marrying her husband Geoff.
Before their wedding in April 1955, hen nights weren’t a common tradition, and Molly had missed out. Remembering this, her family decided to surprise her with a special celebration on the eve of their 70th wedding anniversary.
“We have a big family, and I’ve enjoyed attending my granddaughters’ and nieces’ hen nights over the years,” Molly shared. “I always mentioned that I never had one myself because it just wasn’t done back then.”
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The surprise took place at The Riff Corner, a vibrant live music and arts venue in Clevedon. Molly was completely unaware of the plan. After a family dinner, she was led to the venue expecting a casual music evening, only to discover a lively hen night event waiting for her.
Donned with a “Bride to Be” sash and veil, Molly enjoyed a night filled with games, a buffet, and the company of loved ones. “It was a fabulous evening,” she said. “It might have taken me until I was 92, but having my hen night was definitely worth the wait.”
Molly’s love story with Geoff began at teacher training college in Weymouth. A mutual friend introduced them, leading to a romantic courtship marked by thoughtful gestures. Geoff, a maths instructor aboard the HMS Indefatigable, proposed during a scenic drive near Anna Valley, securing Molly’s “yes.”
They married on April 2, 1955, and went on to raise five children: Judith, Sarah, Debbie, Neil, and Gail. Settling in Clevedon in 1964, their family expanded to include 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, with more on the way.
Both dedicated professionals, Molly served as a deputy headteacher and later headteacher in local schools until her retirement in 1995, while Geoff enjoyed a career in computing and manufacturing.
Today, they spend their days pursuing hobbies—Molly with her knitting and Geoff crafting greeting cards—and cherishing family moments.
When asked the secret to their lasting marriage, Molly emphasized compromise and laughter. “Life isn’t always smooth, but we’ve weathered every storm together. Being able to compromise and make each other smile has kept us strong. Geoff often ‘gets away with murder’ because he makes me laugh,” she joked.
Sylvie Dagallier and Steve Treble, owners of The Riff Corner, expressed their joy in hosting such a memorable event. “We’re thrilled Molly finally had the hen night she deserved and that she enjoyed it so much surrounded by friends and family.”
The Riff Corner, which opened in September 2022, is a hub for live music, poetry, salsa, quizzes, and more in Clevedon.