Winter2016

WINTER 2016

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WINTER 2016

Real Life Brides

Share their big day with us

Wedspiration AFFINITY WEDDINGS MAGAZINE

The latest style, cakes, beauty and flowers

Best Foot Forward

Bridal Party Chic Shoes to finish your look

A touch of red

FREE

Hair comes the Bride Look like a princess

Honeymoon Hot Spots

Aisle Style

Whisk yourself away to one of our dream destinations

This season's WOW dresses

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Editor’s letter 1

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I

t's that time of year when it's prime time for proposals and wedding planning, if you are one of the lucky ones - Congratulations! It's now time to take the next exciting step to ensure your special day has a real ‘wow’ factor, and we are here to help you with just that.

Whether you’re reading us for the first time to give you ideas and inspiration on everything to do with weddings or you have picked us up again to plan the finer details we have it all.

This month we are spoiling you with our selection of Dreamy Dresses (page 11), Venue Styling (page 35), the latest beauty products (page 26), Honeymoons (page 71) and soooo much more.

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We love our real life weddings, newly wed couples share their special day with us, starting from their proposal right down to their dream day (page 49).

So now it’s time to start – Enjoy and Happy Planning!

Jane x

Follow us on Twitter @affinityWeds and like us on FB

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My favourite picks…….

1. Mr & Mrs Mugs £25 each Amara 2. Heidi Klum ContourcBalconnet Bra £36, Briefs £23 3. Macaron Wedding Tower £350, supercutemacarons.com 4. Fortune Telling Book for Brides £12.99 notonthehighstreet.com 5. Diamond & Sapphire White Gold Wedding Ring £1,187 dotjewellery.com 6. Roads Fragrances Keep Kissing Candle £45

Editor: Jane Fry

jane@affinitymag.co.uk

01234 962106

Front Cover: St.Patrick - Zafiro

07507 602401

Advertising Executive: Julia Crofts affinitymagjuliac@gmail.com 07966 696784 www.affinitymag.co.uk

facebook.com/AffinityMag @affinitymagz All adverts are printed in good faith. Affinity cannot take responsibility for the content of adverts. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are accurate. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. Printed in the UK by Regal Litho 01908 270400

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CONTENTS

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11 24 28 35 38 40 42 44

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Dream Dress Edit Hair Comes the Bride Elegant Ears Spring into Neutral Beautiful Berry Venue Cranfield Princess Chic Fabulous Florals

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78 48 58 62 66 69 72 80

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SUBSCRIBE 4 issues for only ÂŁ16 jane@affinitymag.co.uk

Lady in Red Cool in the Country Everlasting Island Love Best Foot Forward Groom Style Tranquil Thailand Elegance at Elounda

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The Bride Here comes

Ella Rosa Style - E322

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Alberta Ferretti Aurora

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Stephanie Allin Celine

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Rosa Clara Viviana

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La Sposa Reina

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St. Patrick Zulma

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St. Patrick Zenit

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Rosa Clara Vega

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Stephanie Allin Clementine

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Alberta Ferretti Leto

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Justin Alexander Style - 9812

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Hair comes the bride Finish off your Bridal hair with these stunning accessories

Lucia Comb £125 Ivory and Co

Lana Hair Comb £105 Ivory and Co

Catalina Comb £95 Ivory and Co

Crystal Art Deco Hair Comb £10 Rock My Vintage

Hair Clip £135 Ivory and Co

Beaded Deco Hair Comb £12 Rock My Vintage

Silver Gatsby Hair Comb £27 Rock My Vintage

Tuscany Hair Comb £93 Ivory and Co

Crystal Hair Comb £15 Phase Eight

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Camilla Hair Comb £50 Ivory and Co

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Clarins Natural Glow Eye Shadow Palette (£33)

This gorgeous rose compact with five eye shadows from beige to satin brown

Clarins Super Restorative Hand Cream (£37.50) An intensive replenishing cream that leaves your hands feeling soft and silky

Ilham Nektar d'Or Eau De Parfum (£185) A profound, intriguing and passionate fragrance

Bridal Beauty Our round up of this season's must have beauty products that will have you looking beautiful on your special day

Bourjois City Radiance Foundation (£9.99)

This anti-pollution screen and SPF30 foundation is available in six shades and leaves your complexion radiant.

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Nailberry Nail Lacquer in Laitfraise (£14.50) A creamy pink colour to create a perfect nude naturual look for your special day

Lanolips Lip Ointment with Colour Rhubarb (£7.99) Achieve the softest, most moisturised lips with a lush glossy finish

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour All-Over Miracle Oil (£29) Soothes and calms redness and irritation, whilst combating uneven skin tone to leave you with rejuvenated, comfortable skin on the entire body

Touche Eclat Blur Perfector (£31.50)

Two never before combined benefits come together in this multi-action powderin-balm perfector

ApiRefine Gold Dust Firming Serum (29.99)

Increase your skin’s elasticity with colloidal gold, plant extracts and a combination of ingredients from the hive

Christophe Robin Regenerating Hair Mask with Prickly Pear Seed Oil (£51) Enriched with pure prickly pear seed oil, this mask restores and revitalises your locks from root to tip

Solstice Highlighting Palette (9.99)

Give your complexion a radiant glow, with this versatile face and body highlighting palette

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Cluster pearl Drop Earrings £65 Lustrous Jewellery Diamond Essentials Silver earrings £160 Links of London

Diamond Gold Earrings £239 Gemporia Diamond White Gold earrings £120 Gemporia

Josetta Earrings £38 Rue Gembon

s r a E t n a leg

E

Earrings £21 Gemporia

Serenite Earrings £36 Gemporia

onds ant diam g le e , ls r ed ea guarante classic p e r r a fo s g o g in you yle, earr look Whether ement st t a t s ur bridal n r o y e d o t o h m c a or g tou e finishin to add th

Rose Gold Irregular Pearl Earrings £45 Lustrous Jewellery

Vintage Crystal Earrings £17 Rock My Vintage

Renascenca Earrings £139 Cadenzza

Pearl Drop Earrings £35 Lustrous Jewellery

Pearl Earrings £17.50 DaWanda

Art Deco Stud Earrings £8 Rock My Vintage Polygon Earrings £79 Cadenzza Filagree Drop Earrings £10 Accessorize

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Fit for a

Princess Valkyrie Tiara £175 Ivory and Co

Laurel Tiara £286 Rosie Willett Designs

Lisette Tiara £155 Ivory and Co

Anika Tiara £205 Ivory and Co

Goldust Tiara £155 Ivory and Co

Empress Tiara £165 Ivory and Co

Gold Leaf Headband £10 Rock My Vintage

Olivia Tiara £75 Ivory and Co

Rhapsody Tiara Ivory and Co Pearl Flapper Headband £23 Rock My Vintage

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Spring into Neutral

Spring greens mixed with white create a simple yet luxurious backdrop to any wedding style, you can even add a dash of any colour it's so neutral

Interflora Wedding Collection

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Personalised Wedding Post Box Crate £38.95 Plantabox

Bride and Groom Cookies £25 Not on the High Street Handmade Letter Lights £89 The White Bulb

Wooden Tray with 5 Bottles £15.99 The Flower Studio

Happily Ever After Tags £3.99 Wildflower Favours

Vintage Hinged Box £57.98 confetti.co.uk

Pistachio & White Chocolate favours £3.95 Cloud Nine Marshmallows

Hydrangea Wedding Cake Alessandra Cake Designs

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Mr & Mrs Sentiment Plaque £9.95 Live Laugh Love

Naked Cake

Lilly of the Valley Boquet

Vera Wang Rose and Freesia Bouquet Interflora Vintage Style Green Floral Frame for Wedding Table Plan £17.95 Luck & Luck

Leaf Name Cards £0.95 Zoe Gibbons Interflora Wedding Designs

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The rustic charm of a chalkboard is a huge trend in wedding decor and this wedding range is no different! Available from Nina Thomas Studio this quirky design features white lace detail and a vintage font. Something a little different from the norm!

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Beautiful Berry

The warm and rich jewel tones of berries are a treat to the eye and add a real luxurious feel to your special day

Interflora Wedding Collection

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Ametyst Forest Cake, Rosalind Miller

Personalised Matchbox Wedding Favour £3.50 Marvling Bros Ltd

Elderflower and Blackcurrant Chelsea Mallow Box £40 London Marshmallow Company

Invitations, Wedding Paper Divas

Flower Boquet, The Flower Magician

Bridal Boquet, McQueens

Embossed Glass £3 Matalan Naked Cake Juniper-Cakery

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Mexicana Save the Date Card £1.80 Russet and Gray

Hurricane Lamp £25 M&S

Vase £26 Black by Design Tealight Holder £5.50 Amara

Flower Cupcakes £27.50 Biscuiteers

Purple Cascade Cake, Rosalind Miller Cakes

Wedding Slate Flower, Interflora

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Venue Cranfield Weddings

H

uge congratulations on your engagement!

Planning a wedding can be a daunting experience, but by choosing Venue Cranfield you can rest assured that you are in capable hands. We will do all we can to make your wedding a memorable and magical experience, allowing you to just enjoy your day with your loved ones.

Located in the beautiful Bedfordshire countryside in between Bedford and Milton Keynes, Mitchell Hall, part of Venue Cranfield, is the perfect place to hold your very special day. We have two Civil Ceremony rooms

seating up to 80 or 110 and our function room holds up to 160 guests for wedding breakfasts and 200 guests for evening receptions. Drinks receptions can be enjoyed on our garden patio or in our exclusive bar lounge.

With years of experience, our dedicated team will be on hand every step of the way to offer advice on every aspect of your day. We know every couple is unique, and we feel your wedding venue should be as unique as you, from the decor and table set up to the food and drink.

Menu choices are created by our chefs, from fresh locally sourced ingredients, and we like to work with couples to not only ensure all dietary requirements are met but that the food is a highlight of the day.

We only ever hold one wedding at a time, so you won’t need to worry about sharing any of the facilities; your celebration is our priority. To make life easy for guests, we offer free onsite parking and, along with our bridal suite, we also offer accommodation with preferential rates so your wedding doesn’t have to end on the day.

We would love to show you around, call today to book a tour or attend our Wedding Fair on the 27th March (11-3pm). Let us know you heard about us in Affinity Weddings and we would be delighted to offer you a 5% discount.

Venue Cranfield 01234 754885 weddings@venuecranfield.co.uk www.venuecranfield.co.uk/weddings

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Princess Chic Silver Cropped Cardi £44 ilovegorgeous.co.uk

Emma Dress £122 ilovegorgeous.co.uk

Dorothy Dress £95 ilovegorgeous.co.uk

Floral Head Dress £15 ilovegorgeous.co.uk

Faux Fur Shrug £29 ilovegorgeous.co.uk

Hair Wreath £35 ilovegorgeous.co.uk

Jigsaw Sparkle Sequin Dress £55 John Lewis

Butterfly Shoes BHS

Confetti Bag £39 ilovegorgeous.co.uk

Wood Nymph Dress £79 ilovegorgeous.co.uk

Wood Nymph Dress £79 ilovegorgeous.co.uk Posey Cascade Dress £55 Monsoon

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Fabulous Florals

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Necklace £25 Debenhams Tunic Shift Dress £50 Yumi

Prudence Mesh Dress £169 Phase Eight

Lacina by Pronovias £520

Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh Perfume £40 Dress £85 Yumi Star by Julien Macdonald £65 Debenhams

Debut Dress £160 Debenhams

Flower Stud Earrings £8.00 Accessorize

Floral Dress £130 Phase Eight

Flower Shoes Debenhams

Box Clutch £29.50 M&S Dress £48 Wallis

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Mono

Mix

Daisy Jacquered Dress £110 Phase Eight

Audrey Hepburn Jet & Crystal Necklace £25 roseandaster.com

Calida £99.95 Moda in Pelle

Spot Dress £65 Oliver Bonas Laina by Pronovias £390

Betty Barclay

Dress £110 Debenhams

Box Clutch £24 Next

Estambul Fascinator £90 Pronovias

Lucinda Contrast Dress £145 Phase Eight Earrings £14 Debenhams

Dress £50 River Island

Lucy Stripe Dress £89 Monsoon

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Lady in Red Embelished Dress £350 Phase Eight

Christian Louboutin Lipstick £60

Isadora £130 Studio 8 Lasia by Pronovias £330 Red Necklace £8.50 Dorothy Perkins

Fit & Flare £140 Phase Eight

Lace Dress £65 BHS

Lace Dress £125 Yumi Evita £69 Dune

Betty Barclay

Vera Mont Tassle Shoe £25 Very

Hat £95 House of Fraser

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Weddings

Real Life

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King of the Castle Karen & Patrick

Karen Barklie and Patrick Linnig were married on 14th March 2014 at Lough Eske Castle, Donegal, Ireland

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How did you meet?

We randomly met in my hometown of Bangor, Co. Down. I had been out with some friends for an afternoon drink and was waiting in a taxi rank around 7pm, when a guy approached me and asked was I single. When I said yes, he told me I had to meet his friend Patrick. I didn’t think much of this at first, I actually just thought well it will kill a few minutes before the taxi arrives. When I saw Patrick we clicked instantly. We texted each other all week and had our first date a week later. It felt like we had known each other forever.

From that point on we were inseparable.

How did the proposal happen?

Patrick booked to take me to Portugal for our one year anniversary. On that day, he took me to the beach in Vilamoura and he proposed to me! We sat down on the beach with a bottle of champagne and two glasses, which I thought was to just

celebrate our one year anniversary. He read me a poem that he had written for me and then gave me a little box that contained the most perfect diamond solitaire ring. He got down on one knee and that was that What did the bride wear?

The Italy dress by the Amanda Wyatt Heritage Collection.

What did the rest of the Bridal party wear?

The bridesmaids wore Belsoie Tiffany Chiffon dresses in sky blue.

What was your theme?

We didn’t really have a theme, we just wanted it to be traditional and timeless.

Something Blue?

I had a little blue bow sewn onto the waistline of my petticoat.

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What were the highlights?

Marrying my best friend. Driving to the church and seeing all our guests knowing that they were all there to celebrate with us. It was so special to have our own castle for the day - it is every girl’s dream.

The meal was absolutely out of this world. Our guests still comment on how good the food was. We both enjoyed the band and evening entertainment and dancing and socialising with our nearest and dearest.

Our honeymoon suite was in the Presidential Suite which was amazing! A must for any couple getting married there!

How did it end?

We danced into the early hours before a night cap in the residents’ bar. That’s when I kicked my heels off, my feet had had enough for one day!

Is there anything you wish you’d done differently?

No, apart from having more hours in the day! The venue was magnificent and in such a stunning location. The castle had its fires blazing and it was just so cosy and welcoming. Everything was just perfect.

Where did you go on honeymoon?

We spent 4 nights in Dubai in a beautiful hotel and then travelled on to Thailand were we spent two nights in Bangkok, followed by two and a half weeks travelling around the country.

FINER DETAILS

Photography: Aurora Photographic Agency (Paul Moane) Dress: Amanda Wyatt Venue: Lough Eske Castle, Donegal, Ireland

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The Peaks

Festival inSarah & Tommy

Sarah and Tommy were married on 12th December 2015 in The Peak District in Matlock

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How did you meet?

We met at V Festival in 2013. My friend Sarah persuaded me to go and I’m so glad she did!

How did the proposal happen?

Neither of us had visited Italy so we ventured on a two-week tour by train.

After visiting many lovely places, Tommy decided to pop the question at sunset in a lovely spot in front of San Miniato Church looking over Florence. It was gorgeous and a big surprise. It was tough for him trying to get me to stop taking photos to listen to him!

Where did the wedding take place?

The wedding took place in the Peak District in Matlock. My mum grew up in the Peak District and I’ve spent a lot of times there. We married in All Saints Church and had a whole weekend celebration with our nearest and dearest at Darwin Lake

Holiday Cottages. One of the key criteria when venue hunting was to be able to have our guests stay with us on site. We dined and partied in a (slightly flooded) tipi. It was great fun and our guests really did get over the weather and enjoy themselves.

What did the bride wear?

A dress by Watters, the Amelie gown. I wore it with my friend’s veil, fresh flowers and Vivienne Westwood shoes (though swiftly changed into boots!).

What did the rest of the Bridal party wear?

Tommy wore his Naval uniform, his best man Andy wore his army uniform and the rest of the groom’s party wore suits from Peter Posh. The bridesmaids wore dresses from ASOS. Our adorable flower girls wore sequin dresses from Monsoon with shrugs from BHS. The mother of the Bride outfit was from Phase Eight.

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What was your theme?

Our theme was predominantly a winter festival theme, a little bit risky but it worked out!

Describe your cake We opted for a naked cake with 3 different flavoured tiers; bakewell with cherry jam and Amaretto filling, lemon with limoncello butter cream and apple cider flavour. Our talented cake maker made little bird toppers, a sailor and a bride! something Blue?

My garter.

What were the highlights?

So many! Surprising Tommy with a classic car ride through the blustery countryside, just us two after the ceremony was great. Seeing our friends and family party on despite the conditions was amazing, this included my 94-year-old aunt who did not move from the dance floor. The silent disco afterhours was a favourite for many and waking up to a bacon and coffee van certainly helped a lot of guests the next day!

How did it end?

The actual day ended with the silent disco – we had a playlist from the bridesmaids and a playlist from the best men – we met at a silent disco at V festival so it was ideal.

is there anything you wish you’d done differently?

The only thing we would have done differently is to rope in more help the day before the wedding, we didn’t realise just how long our DIY touches would take.

Where did you go on honeymoon?

We had a week in log cabin at Foxton Locks Lodges. It was great to hide away, eat drink and enjoy reading our cards. We are planning a sunshine break for later in the year.

Finer Details

Photography: christopherterryweddings.co.uk Dress: Watters Venue: Darwin Lakes Holiday Cottages, Peak District, Matlock (www.darwinlake.co.uk)

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Affinity

Wedding Shows Sunday 28th February The Barns Hotel, Bedford

Sunday 24th April

Wyboston Lakes Hotel, Executive Centre, Wyboston

Sunday 22nd May

The Millhouse Hotel & Marquee, Sharnbrook, Beds

Sunday 25th September The Swan Hotel, Bedford

Sunday 16th October

The Millhouse Hotel & Marquee, Sharnbrook, Beds

Sunday 27th November The Barns Hotel, Bedford

FREE ENTRY

Everything you need for the perfect wedding all under one roof jane@affinitymag.co.uk

07507 602401

www.affinitymag.co.uk

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Cool in the Country Laura & Robin

Laura Black and Robin Weston were married on 7th March 2015 at Hampton Manor (Hampton in Arden), Solihull

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How did you meet?

At a friends BBQ

How did the proposal happen?

Robin works for a treasure hunt company in his spare time, and created a treasure hunt around our flat that eventually led to a ring hidden in a box of chocolates. There were ringing phones, boxes hanging over the balcony, messages written on mirrors. All very exciting!

Where did the wedding take place?

Hampton Manor which is run by my brother-in-law, my sister is the creative mind behind the beautiful decor and design. They have been developing the estate into a lifestyle hotel and destination restaurant for the last seven years and wanted to create a unique and special experience for us. It worked so well they have now created a package based on our day.

What did the Bride wear?

I had tried a few wedding dresses but they were all out of my budget and I didn't feel comfortable spending so much

on a dress I'd only wear once. So I decided to make my own. I probably wouldn't recommend that to another bride - planning a wedding is enough to do - but it meant the dress was even more special.

What did the rest of the Bridal party wear?

Robin doesn't usually do smart so he wanted to keep his outfit fairly casual. He wore navy chinos, white shirt, navy tie and a tweed/Paisley waistcoat, and my sister who was my Maid of Honour and who was also pregnant wore a dress by Two Birds, which suited her and her bump perfectly.

What was your theme?

Fairground 59

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Describe your cake Hampton Manor created an incredible fun fair themed ‘afternoon tea’ for us with a macaron helter skelter, moustache biscuits, lemon mousse 'icecream' cones, Mint Oreo milkshakes. My mum and myself made carrot, chocolate and lemon & blueberry cupcakes for the evening reception. something Blue?

The huge stress of making my own dress!!!! I was still being sewn into it at the last minute.

What were the highlights?

Watching our friends mingle. It was such a special atmosphere and so much more relaxed than many weddings end up being.

Your best buy?

The biggest investment we made was to line the aisle of Hampton Manor’s ceremony barn with live birch trees. It created a very dramatic entrance and fitted with the theme of the of birch woodland that the barn is nestled in.

How did it end?

We stayed over and continued the party the next day.

Finer Details

Photography: Julie Kim Photography Dress: Bride’s Own Venue: Hampton Manor, Hampton-In-Arden, Solihull (hamptonmanor.com) 60

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Everlasting Island Love Kayla & John

Kayla and John were married on 12th May 2015 at Grecian Park Hotel in Protaras, Cyprus

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How did you meet?

We met through mutual friends in a local nightclub back in 2009.

I took a fancy to John straight away and he noticed that I couldn't keep my eyes off him. I messaged him on Facebook the next day. Some might say it's a bit forward ha-ha!

How did the proposal happen?

In Burnham on Sea on a Davies family caravan holiday. He got down on one knee in a packed clubhouse, I thought he was joking so I told him to get up; I was 4 months pregnant with our daughter at the time.

What did the bride wear?

A fishtail off the shoulder lace and tulle dress by Ronald Joyce called 'Bella'

What did the rest of the Bridal party wear?

The groom wore a petrol blue suit called Banks by T M Lewin.

My Maid of Honour wore a dusty pink full-length dress by Lipsy, and our Flower Girl wore a dusty pink 'lily' dress from Monsoon.

What was your theme?

Rustic vintage.

Something Blue?

Blue ribbon through my hand made garter from my sister which was found in my late grandmothers sewing box, as well as 'I do' diamantĂŠ shoe stickers which were amongst my wedding morning gifts from John.

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What were the highlights?

The overwhelming feeling of having our family and friends there celebrating with us in Cyprus. In the months leading up to the wedding whenever we would get a message saying that more of our loved ones had booked it was such an incredible feeling.

Everyone made so much effort for us; we're eternally grateful for that.

Your best buy?

Definitely our wedding video! Every time we watch it we relive the whole day all over again.

How did it end?

Dancing at the hotels Xasteria bar.

Is there anything you wish you’d done differently?

I wish I hadn't stressed so much on the day and had gone with the flow.

Where did you go on honeymoon?

We classed our 2 week holiday in Cyprus as our honeymoon. Although, we did take a trip back to Burnham on Sea back in October to show our daughter where her mummy and daddy got engaged.

FINER DETAILS

Photography: Costas and Marit Kyriakides Dress: Ronald Joyce Venue: Grecian Park Hotel in Protaras, Cyprus (www.grecianpark.com) 64

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Angelica £89 The Perfect Bridal Shoe Company

Gina Felice Embelished Sandal £825 Harrods

Best Foot

Forward

Ted Baker Tie the Knot Shoes £160

We bring you the pick of our favourite wedding shoes, guaranteed to make any bride walk down the aisle in style

Amelia Shoe £565 Emmy, London

Saskia Shoes £249 Benjamin Adams London Eva £495 Emmy, London Lorelai £995 Jimmy Choo

Shoes £99 The Perfect Wedding Freya Rose SnowQueen Couture £1,245

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Black Tie £35 M&S

Dress Shirt and Bow Tie Set £25 BHS

Frederique Constant Slim Line Watch £1,510 Harrods

STYLE

Groom jaeger Cufflinks £55

Dinner Jacket £150, John Lewis Gold Pocket Square £9.95 Charles Tyrwhitt

Paul Smith Wren Monk Shoe £190

Clinique for Men Moisturising Lotion £25 Flower Lapel Pin £8 River Island

J by Jasper White Shirt £38 Debenhams Best of British Suit £699 M&S Tailored Suit Trousers £40 BHS

Tom Ford Noir Extreme (EDT) £70 Harrods

Jaeger M Wheel Print Tie £50

Jaeger Jacket £259

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Dream Destinations

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Dream a Dream Enjoy a show stopping Thailand experience at this new hotel

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With lush mountains, tropical plantations and the Andaman Sea playing supportive roles, Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa is a definite show-stopper. Located in a sun-kissed spot making it perfect for honeymooners.

Whether you’re in the mood to relax poolside, hang out at the beach, or enjoy some private time in the comfort of ultramodern accommodations, there is everything you need.

With natural stone walls, water features and lush greenery on the outside and stunning modern interior on the inside, the property is set to be one of Phuket’s finest.

Each of the 174 rooms, suites and villas offer contemporary style and luxurious comfort and the highlight has to be the beautiful free standing stone bathtubs. The deluxe rooms offer private balconies and for those looking for a luxurious room upgrade, the suites and villas boast private pools and ultimate luxury with unrivalled space.

All rooms surround a picture-perfect sparkling pool, featuring both swim-up and walk-up bars to enjoy alfresco dining, private cabanas, and sunbeds for lounging the day away in style.

Celebrity chef menus produce gastronomical delights across the hotel with Trilogy being the main place to wine and dine.

Alternatively guests can fully relax and rejuvenate at the spa, Sanctuary, which offers therapies designed around the 5 Element Theory of those seeking balance from earth, wind, fire, metal and wood energy. There is also a fitness centre with personal trainers and daily yoga classes, or head to the sophisticated wine and cigar lounge or chill out in the library.

Situated close to the beautiful Phuket beaches the hotel’s location offers a great base from which to explore the culture and scenery of Phuket. Nearby Khao Phra Thaeo National Park boasts beautiful flora and fauna, perfect for leisurely hikes or adventurous treks. Royal Phuket Marina is the gateway to island hopping adventures to Krabi, Phang Nha Bay, Koh Phi Phi and diver’s paradise Similan Island.

Dream Phuket Hotel and Spa is a great choice for honeymooners seeking a Thailand experience which offers a refreshing contemporary style, nearby rainforest and unforgettable island experiences.

BOOK IT Prices start from £142 per night on a B&B basis based on 2 sharing a deluxe room, £250 per night on a B&B basis based on 2 sharing a sky pool suite. Return flights start from £456 www.dreamhotels.com/phuket

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The Jewel in Bali’s Crown An escape of distinction – exclusive, sophisticated, and very special

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Cool, calm and exclusive, the celebrated Sungai Bali is a gorgeous private luxury Bali villa situated amidst lush jungle and gardens, overlooking a river on the fashionable southwest coast of Bali. Just a short drive from the bustle of glamorous Seminyak, yet it feels a million miles away. Sungai is a property with charm, intimacy and elegance – a true honeymooners dream.

The focus on guest experience is paramount, whether it’s being met at the airport by the manager after fasttracked airport clearance, the signature cocktail from the bar on arrival, the allday dining with no breakfast cut-off, the particular enjoyment of Bali and its culture or the luxury Swiss Chopard bathroom amenities.

Every last detail required for guest comfort has been carefully considered, from the finest bed linen, to the freshly baked biscuits. Enter through the gates of Sungai and immediately leave the real world behind. As guests descend the steps and encounter the villa, a feeling of peace and tranquillity begins to gently envelop them.

That very first glimpse of the palest turquoise waters of the standout pool that drops to the river, brings further affirmation of the potential that awaits them. Guests are greeted immediately by the uninterrupted jungle views, the infallible (seemingly telepathic) staff, the traditional “alang alang” thatching, pavilions perfumed with tuberoses, palms and frangipanis, khaki and whitewash, and sleek and sexy white on white… at once understated and stunning. Here time stands still and the fairytale begins in your private luxury Bali villa.

Villas feature off-white terrazzo, traditional Balinese thatched roofing

and vast ceilings, extravagant netted over-sized four-poster beds, exotic indoor/outdoor bathrooms with luxury Chopard and bespoke bathroom goodies, European double baths and tap ware, imported mattresses, pure white Egyptian cotton sheets, thick white cotton bath sheets, enormous Ploh pillows, air-conditioning and fans, LED reading lights, Tivoli Audio and loaded iPods, twice daily servicing including nightly turn-down. All rooms have king single daybeds that can become extra bedding with the same quality of premium bedding and netting, and all open directly to the pools, and overlook the river below and jungle beyond.

Villa Sungai has everything you expect from the finest hotels, with the added bonus of exclusivity. It is Bali’s version of a luxury lodge – intimate and bespoke, tailored to the sophisticated and discerning experiential traveller looking for luxury accommodation with access to local experiences. From its immaculate, elegant interiors to the extraordinary service, this villa is the last word in spoiling and relaxation.

Sungai has taken the 5-star hotel experience to the next level – making it the ultimate fantasy for your honeymoon.

This truly is an escape of distinction – exclusive, sophisticated, and very special.

BOOK IT Prices start from £310 per night in low season (2 adults) including daily breakfast and £383 in high season (2 adults) including daily breakfast. Return Flights start from £413 from London airports. www.bali-villasungai.com

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Onboard Luxury

The ultimate Indonesian private yacht experience

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For couples looking for the height of luxury, Original Diving’s custom built Alexa (a former cargo boat), provides the answer. Alexa, is the only one of the luxury live-aboard boats in Indonesia that's genuinely designed for couples. A beautifully restored 31m Phinisi boat that will allow a lucky pair to unlock the secrets of the stunning Komodo National Park. Days can be whiled away under the southern stars, lounging on the white sands of an uninhabited island with a private picnic, or swimming with manta rays, followed by a session with the award winning OAZIA spa team and a deliciously fresh meal whipped up by the onboard chef.

surrounded by white cushions, antique rugs, candle light and a bonfire. The bar is stocked with the best wines and spirits from around the world – served at any time, on any beach, under any star you choose.

The Upper Deck comprises of an open air dining area, an under the stars sleeping area, sunbeds and open-air navigation platform. The Main Deck is made up of the master cabin with en suite bathroom and private balcony, living and dining room, TV lounge and open air lounge, whilst the kitchen, bar, dining area, lounge, library and 5 crew cabins are found on the Lower Deck.

This is a honeymoon for those in search of the ultimate in understated luxury, absolute privacy, free spirit of discovery and unforgettable experiences.

Alexa’s onboard chef specialises in seafood made from the freshest ingredients, with his masterful dishes taking inspiration from the best of international cuisine. Try catching your own dinner to be enjoyed on a sizzling barbeque on an alabaster beach, where you can watch the sun go down

A Cruise Director will arrange expeditions to remote islands, tribal villages, waterfalls, turtle beaches and share his countless stories about Indonesian adventure. Flores and Raja Ampat are ranked amongst the top diving areas in the world, where an expert dive instructor will lead guests on a tour of the best sites kitted out with Alexa’s top end diving equipment.

BOOK IT 7 nights full charter of Alexa around Komodo National Park is €14,606 (£10,981) per person. This includes international flights from Dublin to Indonesia, all meals, drinks, dives, diving equipment, guides, land excursions, one spa treatment per day, snorkeling & surf. It also includes internal flights onto Bali. www.originaldiving.com

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Stimulate your Senses in

St Lucia

The five senses honeymoon at Cap Maison

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A special honeymoon to stimulate all of the body’s five senses – taste, sight, sound, touch and smell – has been introduced by boutique hotel, Cap Maison in Saint Lucia, for newly-wed couples or those celebrating a special occasion. The Five Senses Honeymoon consists of some special activities – each one designed to stimulate a different sense and to showcase the island’s unique attributes.

The elements include: Taste – a private tasting dinner featuring island produce such as Ceviche of Reef Conch, Ahi Tuna with a Mango Balsamic - at a choice of locations around the resort including a private deck surrounded on three sides by the sea with champagne arriving down a zip wire in James Bond style, or in a pagoda set upon the cliff top lit with lanterns, or a roof top villa suite each with panoramic views.

Sight – a sunset cruise on board a luxury motor yacht with drinks around the historic Pigeon Island, where the English battled with the French for the island, to watch the sun magically slipping away on the horizon.

Sound – utilising a naturally formed rock pool at the base of the cliff, couples can sit and enjoy a special cocktail or glass of champagne, whilst

listening to the sounds of the waves crashing on the rocks around them.

Touch – a special couple’s massage to sooth away aches and pains in the hotel spa or at a location around the resort with bespoke treatments to suit the mood.

Smell – a tour of the early morning food market with the chef to discover the island’s indigenous produce - a feast for all the senses - but the smell of the spices and fresh ingredients cooking in the couple’s master class afterwards will be one guests won’t forget.

The boutique nature of the hotel, the high levels of service and intimate restaurant - The Cliff at Cap – is perfect for honeymooners. The elevated location upon a cliff top with its own beach, and its proximity to Rodney Bay, means that couples can enjoy privacy whilst at the hotel but are close to shops, a golf course and restaurants, if they want to venture further afield.

BOOK IT Prices start at £2,391 per couple for a seven-night stay in a Villa Suite with Jacuzzi, on a B&B basis. The five senses activities are all included within this price. www.capmaison.com

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Elegance at Elounda Luxury in the most idyllic setting

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A honeymoon is something that’s remembered for a lifetime – and Greece’s iconic hotel Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection has created an extraordinary setting in which to celebrate the beginning of your new life together, carefully considering each and every way to make your honeymoon the stuff that dreams are made of.

Set on the beautiful island of Crete in a spectacular beachside setting, with stunning views over the Bay of Elounda and the enchanting island of Spinalonga – Domes of Elounda is truly magical. By day a breath-taking sight with luxury villas surrounded by lapis blue water, in the evening the hotel takes on a charming village like quality; a cluster of pastel coloured Domes meandering down the hillside, with cobbled pathways, delicately lit and subtly perfumed by the beautiful flowers and plants which grow all over the resort.

picturesque fishing village has been a long-time A-list secret currently favoured by host of famous faces such as Jennifer Aniston, Brad Pitt and Rhianna. Offering an unparalleled combination of its remarkable location with exclusive luxury, privacy and service, Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection is about privacy, exclusivity, luxury and the ultimate in comfort and relaxation giving guests an experience that is unlike any other and truly unforgettable.

Once settled, guests can take advantage of the wealth of services provided by the Haute Living’s own dedicated management and service team. A private concierge is available at any time to tend to every last detail including daily complimentary cocktail hour, in villa spa treatments and services, arranging a classic car drive through the Cretan countryside, star gazing and leisurely yacht day trips cruising the deep blue Aegean Sea. This along with generous, private and heated pools, beautifully designed villas with ultra-stylish interiors and unparalleled views along with extras like a welcome open bar, wine tasting and gastronomic delights all fuse to create blissful beauty and privacy; a secluded escape with all the benefits of all the area and facilities of a true luxury resort.

Their new ‘Haute Living Selection’, is just perfect for honeymooners. It redefines the key components of the luxury hotel experience, offering guests the option of approaching the spectacular beachfront property either by helicopter or private limousine. In order to avoid any waiting time and to ensure maximum privacy, guests will also enjoy a relaxing and intimate check-in experience, away from the rest of the resort.

BOOK IT

Set on the jaw-dropping Cretan coastline, Domes of Elounda is truly magical - an effortless fusion of spectacular dining, impeccable service and an excellent spa matched only by the stunning views over the Bay of Elounda and the enchanting island of Spinalonga. This

Domes of Elounda’s Haute Living Luxury residences starts from £365 per night (including taxes) on a bed and breakfast basis for a two bedroom Luxury Residence with private pool (minimum stay 5 days). www.domesofelounda.com

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Wedding Fairs FEBRUARY

Friday 5th - Sunday 7th Milton Keynes Wedding Show Thecentre:mk, Middleton Hall, Milton Keynes www.centralexhibitions.co.uk

Sunday 7th Stockwood Discovery Centre Wedding Fair Stockwood Park, London Road, Luton, LU1 4LX 11am – 3pm www.theonestopweddingshow.co.uk Sunday 7th Northants County Cricket Club Wedding Fair Northampton, NN1 4PR 11am – 3pm www.eventsinabox.org.uk Sunday 14th Bedfordshire Wedding Show The Park Inn by Radisson, St Mary’s St, Bedford, MK42 0AR 11am – 3pm www.whoopevents.com

Wednesday 17th The Forest Centre Wedding Fair Station Road, Marston Moretaine, Beds, MK43 0PR 6.30pm – 9pm www.marstonvale.org Sunday 21st The Bedford Swan Wedding Show The Embankment, Bedford, MK40 1RW 11am – 4pm www.bedfordswanhotel.co.uk

Sunday 21st Pendley Manor Wedding Show Cow Lane, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 5QY 11am – 4pm www.pendley-manor.co.uk

Sunday 21st Horwood House Wedding Fayre Little Horwood, Milton Keynes, MK17 0PH 11am – 3pm www.edwardlewisweddings.com Sunday 28th Affinity Wedding Showcase at The Barns Hotel, Bedford Cardington Road, Bedford, MK44 3SA 11am – 3pm www.affinitymag.co.uk

MARCH

Sunday 13th Moggerhanger Park Wedding Fair Park Road, Moggerhanger, Beds, MK44 3RW 11am – 3pm www.swirlytopcupcakeevents.co.uk

APRIL

Sunday 13th The Luxury Wedding Show Luton Hoo Hotel Golf & Spa , The Mansion House, Luton, Beds, LU1 3TQ 11am – 4pm www.luxuryweddingshow.co.uk

Sunday 10th The Bedfordshire Wedding Fair at The House Shuttleworth Old Warden Park, Beds, SG18 9EA 11am – 4pm www.wedding-exhibitions-uk.co.uk

Sunday 27th Mitchell Hall Wedding Show Cranfield College Rd, Cranfield, Bedford MK43 0AL 11am – 3pm www.venuecranfield.co.uk/wedding

Sunday 24th Affinity Wedding Showcase at Wyboston Lakes Great North Road, Wyboston, Beds, MK44 3AL 11am – 3pm www.affinitymag.co.uk

Sunday 20th Charmed Wedding Fayre Tilsworth Golf Club, Dunstable Road, Tilsworth, LU7 9PU 11am – 3pm www.charmedweddingfayres.co.uk

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Sunday 17th Grendon Lakes Marquee Wedding Fair Main Road, Grendon, NN7 1JW 11am -3pm www.luxuryweddingshow.co.uk

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WINTER 2016

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WINTER 2016

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