Alternative Wedding Magazine Issue 2 by Alternative Wedding Magazine

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WELCOME

WELCOME TO OUR SECOND ISSUE OF THE ALTERNATIVE WEDDING MAGAZINE.

ell, 2020 threw us a curveball! We hope you are all keeping safe and sane at this strange time. It’s been a challenging time for all of us and we think all you gorgeous couples need cheering up! That’s why this issue is packed full of articles; beautiful real weddings and styled shoots that we hope will make you smile.

COV ER SHO T PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICKI WWW.PHOTOGRAPHYBYVICKI.CO.UK

One thing’s for sure, despite the many changes the pandemic has brought to our lives, love has remained constant. When we went into lockdown, the rainbow became a symbol of love and hope and has for a long time represented diversity. We are all worthy of love and this edition is a colourful celebration of love in all its wonderful forms. #loveislove TEA M! THE GO HAR D OR GO HOM E

HEADPIECE BED OF ROSES @BEDOFROSESFLORALDESIGN HAIR STYLING DYES AND DOLLS @DYESANDDOLLSHAIRDRESSINGDIPTON MUA THE GEORDIE MUA @THEGEORDIEMUA

NIC OLA EDW ARD S

HE LE N SY SO N

AM BE R BL AC K

LO RN A BO YE R

EDITOR IN CHIEF

EDIT OR

MODEL MEENA @HIYA.MEENA

T! CH EC K US OU

ILLUSTRATIONS: @SKELETONJACK666

DRESS CORSETRY AND COUTURE WWW.CORSETRYANDCOUTURE.CO.UK

WWW.ALTERNATIVEWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CO.UK OR FOLLOW US ON @ ALTERNATIVEWEDDINGMAGAZINE

DESI GN

AR TW OR K

@ ALTERNATIVE_WEDDING_MAGAZINE FOR MORE ALTERNATIVE WEDDING INSPIRATION!

CO NT RI BU TO RS

EMAIL: ALTWEDMAG@YAHOO.COM

©2020 Alternative Wedding Magazine. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, artwork, advertising or photographic material while in transmission or with the publisher or with their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print.

REAL COUPLE: MIKE AND NICOLA PHOTOGRAPHER: GAVIN FORSTER PHOTOGRAPHY

BESPOKE CORSETRY CORSETRYANDCOUTURE.CO.UK AIMEE@CORSETRYANDCOUTURE.CO.UK

# A LT W E D D I N G I N S P O

Our creative team have created a stunning, daring, multicoloured bridal shoot which strikingly breaks convention.

he world is filled with the most beautiful colours: diverse, unique and wonderful- just like you. This was certainly the case for our brides Meena and Simone whose vibrant shoot at Ghetto Golf in Newcastle demonstrates their playfulness and energy as a couple. If you’re feeling rebellious, consider incorporating a paint fight or trashing that

white dress- guaranteed to astonish your guests. Colour can be injected into any aspect of your wedding- the venue, cake, shoes, hair….the list is endless. Whether you’re looking for just a splash of colour or a dramatic colourful neon explosion like our brides, there are infinite options to make your special day fun and memorable. Go on… grab a slice of that cake and taste the rainbow!

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S ID E TH E LI NE CO LO UR OU TS CREATIVE TEAM CREATIVE DIRECTOR | NICOLA EDWARDS ALTERNATIVE WEDDING MAGAZINE PHOTOGRAPHY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICKI WWW.PHOTOGRAPHYBYVICKI.CO.UK DRESSES | CORSETRY AND COUTURE WWW.CORSETRYANDCOUTURE.CO.UK MUA | THE GEORDIE MUA - @THEGEORDIEMUA HAIR STYLIST | NATASHA- DYES AND DOLLS INSTAGRAM @DYESANDDOLLSHAIRDRESSINGDIPTON FLORIST | BED OF ROSES FACEBOOK @BEDOFROSESFLORALDESIGN CAKE | SUGARFUN CAKE ARTISTRY FACEBOOK @SUGARFUNCAKEARTISTRY HAND PAINTED SHOES | INANNA BESPOKE SHOES WWW.INANNABESPOKESHOES.COM JEWELLERY | NORA COOL - @NORACOOL VENUES | YOUR TRIBE VENUES | WWW.YOUR-TRIBE.CO.UK GHETTO GOLF NEWCASTLE WWW.GHETTOGOLF.CO.UK/NEWCASTLE HIDDENHEIGHTSSTUDIO WWW.HIDDENHEIGHTSSTUDIO.COM/ CONFETTI | INSTAGRAM - @WILDGLITTERSTORE MODELS | MEENA INSTAGRAM @HIYA.MEENA SIMONE INSTAGRAM @SIMONETURNERXX

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d daring. Adding colour to to inject some fun, personality u decide, the most important do you!

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Kayleigh Falcus

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HFEIA # NDE EARR T P H O T O G R A P H Y

Lovers of fine art and fantasy, why not incorporate this love into your wedding photography? We asked some Fine Art Photographers for their inspiration on creating such powerful work.

have always been drawn to the fantasy genre, even before I started photography. When I was younger, I would read and write fantasy fiction all the time! I am fascinated by how one photo can bring an entire narrative to life! From warrior queens to curious Alice-types, my work aims to depict strong and independent female characters with a whimsical twist. I especially love drawing inspiration from fairytales, because it gives me an excuse to bring out the gorgeous ball gowns! Coming from a Fine Art background, I think this gives me a unique ability as a wedding photographer to make any bride feel like a queen! I adore clients who want to take their couple shots a little bit further. I recently had a couple who wanted me to edit butterflies into their bridal portraits, and another who wanted a Beauty and the Beast themed engagement shoot â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that was a lot of fun! As with my self-portraits, I focus every photoshoot around my client and their personalities, so no two shoots are the same! Joanna Claire Sellick Photography Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always loved fantasy images, to look at a photograph and feel like you are part of that world and that reality can be a fantasy and vice

versa. Traditional wedding photography is still an important part of modern society but we are lucky now to be able to ditch the norm and have exactly what you want on your day. Photography not only captures the essence of your day but enables you to create the aesthetic that makes your heart sing. Your photographs are going to be an everlasting memory of your wedding and what could be more fantastic than replacing your artwork at home with a heart stopping image of your magical day to be re-lived every time it catches your eye? Debbie Todd Photography I think I'm a storyteller at heart and that's something that's woven into all my images. I'm forever lured in by the juxtaposition that something can be both beautiful and disturbing and as such my images are visual dark fairytales; my work often explores how contrasting themes, such as humans and nature, can both intertwine and repel each other. I find I'm more inspired by paintings than photographers, in particular the Pre-Raphaelite and Romanticism eras, and I approach emotive concepts in a symbolic way reflective of that style of artwork. Ruby Hyde Photography

IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @JOANNACLAIRESELLICK

#FINEARTPHOTOH GE RA D PH ER Y

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IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @JOANNACLAIRESELLICK

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#BOUDOIRBOOTS

Bridal Boudoir sessions can be as romantic or daring as you want them to be. If you are thinking of booking yourself a boudoir session why not make it extra special by treating yourself to the most empowering and beautiful boudoir accessory - a pair of luxury lace boots…?

o what is a bridal boudoir session? Traditionally, they were photos given to the groom by the bride on their wedding night. Nowadays it can be a unique and romantic gift to give your partner or also a fabulous way to celebrate yourself leaving you feeling glamorous and confident. A bridal boudoir session is the ultimate ‘all about you’ experience and will involve having your hair and makeup professionally done, dressing up in luxurious lingerie and

accessories and having someone capture you at your most beautiful. Sign us up please! Looking to add a little extra wow to your bridal boudoir session? House of Elliott luxury lace boots are the perfect feel fabulous, sexy accessory! There is a reason they call them ’lingerie for the legs’ as the experience of slipping them on and tying up the satin ribbon at the side is as unique as it is sensual. As an added treat, a boudoir session will give your lucky partner a little teaser of the fun of lacing them down afterwards!

#BOUDOIRBOOTS

IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @ELLAFARRELLWEDDINGS

IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @AFTERDARKPHOTOGRAPHYSTUDIO

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# TE WRE D D I N G I N S P O HA E AL D

Wynwood Walls, Miami, USA. This incredible shoot features a backdrop where street art and graffiti are presented in an unprecedented way. We hope it provides some colourful inspiration for your big day.

et against a stunning vista of colour, our model takes our breath away in her paradoxical traditional white dress and extraordinary knee high blood-red boots. Surrounded by art, the shoot demonstrates that injecting colour, grafitti and other artistic elements can bring wedding photos to life whether this be in the background, the bride and groom themselves or both. Colours of the rainbow are, after all, the very definition of diversity, positivity and energy.

Wynwood Walls was conceived as an attempt to represent the diversity of American and international artists. Look in any town or city, however, and you’re likely to come across some equally impressive scenes. The British artist David Hockney once said ‘I prefer living in colour’. For art lovers, we hope this shoot is particularly inspirational but anyone can inject such elements into their big day and we’d encourage you to also consider beginning your married life in colour.

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! L OR GO HO ME GO CO LO UR FU CREATIVE TEAM PHOTOGRAPHY @STACIAMORGANPHOTOGRAPHY MODEL @THEKAYECOXWAY VINTAGE DECOR @SLEVINTAGE FLOWERS @ALAVISHEVENTDESIGN STYLING SLE VINTAGE & @ALAVISHEVENTDESIGN ENSEMBLE @SOPHIAELORTEGUI | @CHICPARISIEN BOOTS @HOUSEOFELLIOTLACEBOOTS HAIR AND MAKEUP @RENAE_M_PALMER @MICHELLEBERTELLIBRIDAL OF @CIAOBELLASALONOFISLAMORADA 47

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23/08/19 | HIGH HOUSE FARM BREWERY

Helen and Matty met on Tinder. Helen said Matty thought he wasn’t her type but she reminded him that it wasn’t up to him who was her ‘type’ and they went on a date. Several years later, after having a bouncing baby boy together, Matty popped the question on Christmas Day in their home. Their wedding day followed: full of love, friends, family and sunshine with none of the usual expectations or formality of a standard wedding. What was your favourite part of your day? Helen: The whole day was so joyful it’s hard to choose just one. But I’d have to say having our Mums sign the wedding certificate. Matty’s Mum, Carol, was very ill at the time of our wedding and passed less than a month later. She had summoned so much strength to attend the wedding at all, let alone look as

beautiful as she did. Having her signature forever on our wedding certificate makes it all the more special. Matty: It’s all a bit of a haze but probably seeing Helen come down the aisle, the whole thing was so magical it was almost surreal.

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

WE HAD WRITTEN OUR OWN PROMISES, AND MATTY WELLING UP AND STRUGGLING TO GET THROUGH HIS WITHOUT CRYING. IT MADE MY HEART SWELL MORE THAN I CAN EXPLAIN.

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

Where did you save?

Helen: We were on a really tight budget and what money we did have for the wedding came from our families. Since I’m super crafty, I took on a lot of the jobs. I made all the invites, place names, seating plan, signage, a thousand paper cranes and so much more. I also made our wedding cake, did my own hair and makeup and my Mother made the bouquets. We got an incredible deal from Claire at Unscripted Photography. The price she charges as standard for both photography and videography is unrivalled and we had an even better discount as we booked her at a wedding fair. I honestly can’t praise Claire enough, she was without shadow of a doubt the best decision we made in the wedding planning.

Where did you splurge?

We were so lucky that our venue was free to hire as long as we used their caterers. This was perfect for us as we were wanting to spend the majority of our budget on the food.

What advice would you give to couples planning their wedding day?

Helen: It’s a day for both of you, make all your decisions together. Don’t pay any mind to what you ‘think’ a wedding should be. If you don’t care about cars, don’t waste money on fancy transport because you think you need to. If you want a blue wedding dress, do it. If you want a bouncy castle… actually even if you don’t want a bouncy castle you should get one because it’s brilliant. Matty: Consider what’s important to you as a couple. Make a bucket list for your wedding because after all you’ll hopefully only do it once! 52

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WE HAD SUCH A SMALL GUEST LIST, WITH CLOSE FRIENDS AND FAMILY. THE VIBE WE WANTED WAS “HANGING OUT IN A BEER GARDEN ON A BEAUTIFUL DAY WITH EVERYONE YOU LOVE”.

SUPPLIERS PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER: UNSCRIPTED PHOTOGRAPHY, WWW.UNSCRIPTEDPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK | CATERER: HIGH HOUSE FARM BREWERY, WWW.HIGHHOUSEFARMBREWERY.CO.UK | FLORIST: RUBY TUESDAY + BRIDE’S MUM!, RUBYTUESDAYEVENTS.CO.UK CAKE, HAIR STYLING, MAKEUP & INVITATIONS: THE BRIDE | JEWELLERY: MAGAELA ACCESSORIES, WWW.MAGAELA.COM | BRIDAL WEAR: WED2B WWW.WED2B.CO.UK | GROOMS WEAR: ASOS, WWW.ASOS.COM | BRIDAL PARTY: VARIOUS HIGHSTREET | CEREMONY LOCATION: HIGH HOUSE FARM BREWERY RECEPTION LOCATION: HIGH HOUSE FARM | MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT:A1 BOUNCE, WW.A1JUMPANDBOUNCE.CO.UK BRIDAL PARTY ACCOMMODATION: SHELLBRAES HOLIDAY RENTAL, SHELLBRAES.COM 53

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17/03/18 | THE LAWN, ROCHFORD

Steve and Robin met online, had their first date in a pub: ate nachos, drank beer and talked about anything and everything. They clicked. A year later they were making soup on a cold evening and talking about the future. Robin got down on one knee and popped the question. What was your favourite part of your day?

Steve: The later part of the day is a bit blurry and the whole thing flew by; it was over before I knew it. The most memorable bit, if I’m honest, was standing holding Robin’s hand in front of the registrar. I felt so proud and the room was full of love. It was everything. I’d always liked the idea of a winter wedding but when we actually got snow on that morning (in March!) it was a bit of a panic since it might prevent people from travelling but everyone came and we got the chance to skip through the 54

snow in sequin jackets on our wedding day. It doesn’t get much more camp than that! Robin: Getting ready with our closest friends and family in the renamed Groom’s Room at the venue set the tone for the day but holding Steve’s hand as we made our wedding promises is the highlight. It was the fastest day of my life; to be the focus of so many people on your wedding day is part of what makes the day so special but it does make it speed by. Having a good venue with staff who gently move the day on while letting you enjoy it was super important. They were the single biggest factor that made it so special.

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

STEVE WAS WORKING AS A WAITRESS IN A COCKTAIL BAR, WHEN I MET HIM… OH SORRY, THAT’S SOMEONE ELSE’S STORY.

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

Where did you save?

We didn’t have a specific budget but we tried to keep costs down where possible. Getting our rings online was half the price of doing it through a high street jeweller and the quality was great.

Where did you splurge?

Our jackets were a big chunk of what we spent! The bulk of the costs were the venue, food and drinks. We were clear that we wanted all our guests there for the whole day, which isn’t the cheapest way to do it but was important to us. The venue is a little remote so we provided a coach for everyone to do drop-offs safely at their accommodation.

What advice would you give to couples planning their wedding day?

We were always very clear on the underlying purpose of the day; we wanted to make our commitment to each other in front of the people we cared most about, and of course, have a great party. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Do it your way. Concentrate on the things that will make you happy and help your family and friends have a great time. Don’t do something just to impress your guests. If some of the details don’t go quite to plan it probably won’t matter. Get people together, get married, get dancing, get drunk (or not) – they’re the fundamentals you need to focus on. 56

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SUPPLIERS PHOTOGRAPHER: MATT WING, MATTWING.CO.UK | CATERER: THE LAWN, WWW.THELAWN.CO.UK | FLORIST: THE ORCHID ROOM WWW.THEORCHIDROOMFLOWERS.CO.UK | CAKE: HOME MADE BY STEVEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SISTER | INVITATIONS: WWW.GREENVELOPE.COM | JEWELLERY: BLUE NILE JEWELERY, WWW.BLUENILE.COM | GROOMS WEAR: ROSE AT SEWING SOLUTIONS, SEWINGSOLUTIONS.BIZ | CEREMONY LOCATION: THE LAWN, ROCHFORD | TRANSPORTATION: RELIANCE COACHES, WWW.RELIANCECOACHES.CO.UK | MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT: ROGER FROM ROMFORD, 07941173797 | VENUE STYLING: JANE MACDONELL, EXQUISITEWEDDINGANDEVENTSERVICES.CO.UK/ (CHAIR COVERS) | CELEBRANT: ESSEX COUNTY COUNCIL, K.W. WHEELER AND JENNIFER HERBERT 57

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# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

07/09/2019 |

MOUNTON BROOK LODGE

The first time they met, Matthew was staggering home after one too many. Emily and her friend gave him a ride home. 2 years later their lives crossed again at a friend’s birthday party and he asked her out on a date! Matthew popped the question in Mexico, getting down on one knee in the middle of a huge storm and the rest was history! What was your favourite part of your day? Emily: So many. Saying our vows we couldn’t stop smiling at one another. Having our portraits taken at our local garden centre, we got so many strange looks! Dancing the night away at the reception. I don’t think I stopped 60

dancing all night, I had so much fun just being with everyone we love. Matt: Saying 'I do!' Also having photos taken with the smoke bombs and watching all our friends having so much fun and laughing was high up on the list.

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS TO US BOTH WAS MAKING SURE THE CHOICES WE MADE WHEN PLANNING OUR WEDDING WERE MINDFUL OF THE ENVIRONMENT AROUND US. WE DECIDED TO HAVE AN ENTIRELY VEGAN WEDDING.

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

Where did you splurge?

We had a budget of £15,000. Most of our budget was devoted to our wedding venue, so much of our day centred around this aspect. Our ceremony, catering and reception all took place under one roof so we needed to make sure it was right.

Where did you save?

Good photography and videography was a top priority, so we always knew we were going to be spending a large amount of our budget on these services. However, we did set ourselves limits for these and approached both our Videographer and Photographer who graciously accepted our offers and created a package to fit us.

What advice would you give to couples planning their wedding day?

Emily: I stressed a lot! But I would say the key is being organised. I had spreadsheets and lists for everything which helped me. I would say give yourself plenty of time, especially for things like DIY because I can guarantee it will take longer than you think. The day really does go so fast so I would also recommend setting some time aside in your wedding day schedule for you both to have quality time together. I didn’t do that and I’m so glad that at one point my new husband insisted I take a step back to take it all in. Watching people mingle and have fun was a special moment, it felt like all the hard work had paid off. 63

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

OUR THEME WAS PALM SPRINGS COMES TO WALES, INSPIRED BY PANTONE'S 'COLOUR OF THE YEAR' LIVING CORAL, THE COLOUR PALETTE FEATURED PINK, ORANGE, YELLOW AND PEACH.

SUPPLIERS PHOTOGRAPHER: WWW.PHOTOGRAPHYBYVICKI.CO.UK | CATERER: WWW.JOSHUASCATERING.CO.UK | FLORIST: WWW.MAEFLORALDESIGN.COM MAKEUP: JESSICAROSEMAKEUPARTIST.CO.UK | INVITATIONS & CALLIGRAPHY: WWW.SK-CREATIVE.CO.UK | BRIDAL WEAR: HOUSEOFOLLICHON.CO.UK / WAXFLOWERBRIDAL.CO.UK | GROOMS WEAR: ASOS | BRIDAL PARTY: ASOS | VENUE: MOUNTONBROOKLODGE.CO.UK VIDEOGRAPHER: WWW.LOVEDUPFILMS.CO.UK | MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT: THE COLTS, WWW.ALIVENETWORK.COM/BANDPAGE.ASP?BANDNAME=THE%20COLTS VENUE STYLING: THEWEDDINGSPARK.COM / WWW.CAROLYNLOUISEWEDDINGS.CO.UK | NEON SIGN: LOVEINCLTD.CO.UK GROOMS WEDDING RING: ECOWOODRINGS.CO.UK | BRIDES WEDDING RING: WWW.ARTEMERSTUDIO.COM 66

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North East MUAS recommend their favourite products and tips for DIY brides

aving your makeup done by a professional makeup artist for your wedding or for any special event is SUCH a treat isn't it?! The same with getting your hair styled by a pro! How is it that when they do it it always looks so much better and lasts so much longer than when we do it ourselves?! Witchcraft?!!

Perhaps, but more likely it is to do with the products they use. We asked some of our favourite North East Makeup Artists to let us in on their secretswhich products they love and why! Specifically in this issue we asked about their top tips for winged eyeliner and their favourite red lip!

"My favourite red lipstick is so hard to choose!! I am going to stick with the same range and go for the Younique Splash Liquid Lipstick in 'Sizzling' which is a true 'pillar box' red that reminds me of Marilyn Monroe and it lasts for hours without being drying."

# M U A S R E C O MH M E AEDNED R

£21 from Younique (online only)

TIN AMY MAR & BELLES BOMBSHELLS BOMBSH

ELLSAN

DBELLE

S.COM

“My favourite liner for wings is the Younique 'Dip & Draw' liquid liner in the shade 'Perfect'. It is so dark and easy to apply as the brush is SUPER fine tipped but also tapered so you choose the thickness based on the pressure or angle you apply it with." £16.50 from Younique (online only)

“My favourite lipsticks at the moment are the fabulous 'Ciate – Glitter Flips'. I love all of the shades and use lots of the darker shades. The red they do is called 'Hollywood Red' and it is so glam!” £17 from Ciate

SAM WHAT’S

PRIC

YOUR F ACE MU A

“For winged liner I love a highstreet brand called 'CYO' – their semi permanent eyeliner 'This Liner's A Keeper' has incredible staying power! It doesn't come off without the use of an oil based makeup remover so it is extremely waterproof.” £5 from Boots FA CE BO OK : @W

HA TS YO UR FA CE

MU A

#MUASRECOMMEND

IP! TOP T

“For a red lip I adore the Lisa Eldridge 'True Velvet' range. £26 from Lisa Eldridge

KIRSTEN B M AKE UP ARIT ST “My favourite liner for wings is Kat Von D's tattoo liner in 'Trooper'. It doesn't budge!

WWW.KI

RSTENB

MAKEUP

ARTIST

£17 from Debenhams

“My favourite red lippy is the Charlotte Tilbury 'Hot Emily' which is a gorgeous coral red shade.” £25 from Charlotte Tilbury TOP TIP!

OXBERRY DAL E BRI C A F THE

CAROLINE

“My favourite product for perfect winged liner that lasts is the 'Inglot' Gel Liner in shade 77.” £14 from InglotUK

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Offering creative floral design packages that are natural, romantic and inspired by the Northumberland countryside. Wedding flowers that reflect your individuality and the unity of your partnership.

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HAEM # AD AE NRS TA K E O N W E D D I N G P L A N N I N G

# A M A N S TA K E O N W E D D I N G P L A HN EA ND I NEG R

A man’s take on wedding planning. Gone are the days when a groom's only job was to 'stay out of the wedding planning'. Samantha Jade Nye reflects on the modern men taking an active role in planning their nuptials.

raditionally, men took the back seat with regards to wedding planning. As long as they showed up on the day at the right time and right place they were winning at life. However, modern society has shown us that more men are taking an active role in the planning stages and are taking it in their stride. Weddings now appear in all shapes and sizes and all have a unique spin. However the planning can lead to arguments, disagreements, fall outs with family, you name it, it will really test your relationship and how well you get on with your partner. Planning a wedding together not only proves that a couple can work together as a team but is a precursor for future decision making in life. So you’ve proposed/been proposed to/agreed to get married and now comes the typical stereotype of the men don’t have any say in the wedding. However, more recent times have shown that men have become more proactive

in wedding planning from either taking care of the parts they are most interested in or getting involved in the full shindig. Although the era of feminism is here, this is one area where some women are reluctant to let go of. Traditionally, it was the ‘done thing’ that the bride’s father would pay for the wedding. Perhaps this is the reason this old fashion standard started of the bride planning the wedding because her family paid for the day. The world of marriage has changed significantly. With individual freedom and marriage equality we can marry whoever the hell we want, hallelujah! It is so important men take a leading role in wedding planning and allow it to evolve just the way marriage has been evolving to modern society. It is time to move from traditional affairs and allow men to enjoy their ‘wedmin’ time and take a forward role in their weddings. Come on grooms, let’s see what you’ve got!

BY SAMANTHA JADE NYE WWW.THATGEORDIEGIRL.COM WWW.DAPPERANDSUAVE.UK | PHOTOGRAPHER: @PHOTOSBYPALOMA | FORMALWEAR: @DAPPER_DORKING MALE MODEL: @ALEXBAMBRICK | VENUE: @WOTTON_HOUSE_HOTEL

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

28/09/19 | NORTHBROOK PARK

Ashni and David met on Tinder but initially decided to remain friends. Enjoying the same humour, tv, food and conversations feelings grew and they added a fur baby to their love story. David proposed in the Philippines on one knee with a red wax sealed envelope, paying homage to their favourite show Taskmaster, which read â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spend the rest of your life with me, your time starts now.â&#x20AC;? What was your favourite part of your day? Ashni: I loved absolutely everything about our wedding day! Although it was a celebration of me and David, I feel the most memorable part of the day was the morning before everything kicked off! The bridal suite at Northbrook Park is incredible so while my bridesmaids got their hair and makeup done, I had a cup of tea and croissant with my Mother in law and parents, in my most unattractive, most comfortable jumper and leggings I have. I had 74

a little wander around the grounds of the venue and got back and just chatted away with my sisters, best friend and parents while I did my makeup. David: Spending time with our guests in the gardens after the ceremony. The nerves had worn off and the food and drink was as free flowing as the River Danube after a heavy rainfall. We got really lucky with the weather, so after all the fretting it was a relief to be able to spend that time outdoors as planned.

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

IT WAS IMPORTANT TO SHOW MY INDIAN HERITAGE, WE HAD A HENNA ARTIST, CHANGED INTO TRADITIONAL INDIAN OUTFITS FOR THE RECEPTION AND ENJOYED A DELICIOUS INDIAN FEAST!

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

Where did you save?

We designed our invites on People Per Hour and got them printed on Vista. We used YouTube to learn how to wax seal our envelopes. All the place names were laser cut from plywood and I painted them with spray paint.

Where did you splurge?

With a budget of 35k we both decided from the very beginning that it’s either a small civil ceremony with parents and siblings or absolutely everything we’ve ever wanted for the best day for us and our family and friends. So we splurged on our dream venue and endless streams of food and alcohol which used about 55-60% of the budget.

What advice would you give to couples planning their wedding day? Enjoy the planning process. I didn’t think I’d miss it as much as I have. Take time to get to know the businesses, tuning out all the finer details and make sure you really like the people that are supplying things for your big day- some of them are going to be there on your big day around all the people you love.

Get a videographer and an album! I most definitely suffered from post-wedding blues and it was so lovely seeing the album a few months after, later followed by the video. It made it really exciting to look forward to all those things and experience the day once again.

SUPPLIERS PHOTOGRAPHER: KIRSTYMACKENZIEPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK | CATERER: WWW.MASALACREATIONS.COM | FLORIST: WWW.BLOOMANTIC.COM CAKE: @ALETHEAS_CAKES | HAIR STYLING: PRITIHAIRANI.COM | MAKEUP: @PRII_ARTIST | INVITATIONS : VISTA PRINT | JEWELLERY: MONGAS.CO.UK BRIDES WHITE DRESS: WWW.DAVIDSBRIDAL.CO.UK | INDIAN LENGHA: MONGAS.CO.UK | GROOMS SUIT: WWW.VIVALDIPRO.CO.UK / SHERWANI: MONGAS.CO.UK | BRIDAL PARTY: WWW.CHICHICLOTHING.COM | CEREMONY & RECEPTION: WWW.HARBOURHOTELS.CO.UK/NORTHBROOK-PARK VIDEOGRAPHER: ANDREFOSTERFILMS.COM | MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT: WWW.KAMOLOGY.CO.UK | VENUE STYLING: WWW.TOHAVEANDTOHIREWEDDINGS.COM / THEBLOSSOM.UK | MAGICIAN: WWW.MARTINJOHNMAGIC.COM | MIXOLOGIST: WWW.CHINCHINMOBILEBARS.CO.UK | PHOTOBOOTH: WWW.MAGICALTIMES.CO.UK HENNA ARTIST: WWW.POONAMMEHNDI.CO.UK | QUARTET: WWW.QUATTRO-STRINGS.CO.UK 77

#D R IEY A B RL IADLET W E D D I N G

20/02/2020 | LE PETIT CHATEU

Best friends for 4 years... After a night of watching Dirty Sanchez and sharing a few bottles of Jack Daniels, Andi and Joe have been inseparable ever since. Joe proposed at home covering the walls in song lyrics which led to the most beautiful ring which he presented to Andi.

# R E A L A L T W# D E IDY D B RI INDG E

JOE PROPOSED AT HOME COVERING THE WALLS IN SONG LYRICS LEADING TO THE MOST BEAUTIFUL RING.

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

What was your favourite part of your day? Andi: Reading our vows. We incorporated a few jokes as we don’t take things seriously, but hearing what Joe felt was beautiful. Trying to get him to say how he feels is a nightmare, so to hear him say what he did, broke me!

Also, seeing my Dad. I love my Dad so much and to see him in his suit with that amazing dragon tie, it just took me back to when I was tiny and we'd pretend to be Hagrid and Norbet the dragon. It reminded me, no matter old I get, I’ll always have those memories of being so small with my huge Dad there for me. Joe: When I first saw Andi walking down the aisle towards me it was something I will never forget and once we had said our vows and had a little joke we got to be a bit more relaxed. There was a little bit of time for us to just soak in the fact we were married, we had a laugh with each other and took some silly photos that were just us messing around.

Where did you save and where did you splurge? We didn’t have much of a budget, apart from the venue, photographer and DJ. All of whom were fantastic! Everything else was pretty much home-made.

What advice would you give to couples planning their wedding day? DON’T DO IT!!! Joking, do what makes you happy! Remember, you’re not fitting into a princess mould, you are making this about you, and your partner! 80

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

HE REALLY IS THE BEST THING THAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED TO ME - ANDI

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# E V O L U T I O N O F G AY M A R R I A G E

AN DR EA WH IM AG E: WW W.

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Evolution of gay marriage Pride Day, 27th June 2020. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Pride was a very different, although no less poignant, day compared with those that have preceded it. Usually colourful, fabulous gatherings would celebrate how far the LGBTQ community have come over the decades, how love is love and how the world has moved on from the hideous days where homosexuality was a crime. In this potted history, Emma explores the evolution of LGBTQ rights.

2004 The Civil Partnership law in 2004 was passed and came into effect in December 2005. Despite giving couples the same rights as married couples, the government was keen to clarify that it was not classed as marriage. It was a triumphant day for many but not enough for others, who felt that gay couples and families were classed as second rate, and that by giving them the same status it in no way diminished those of heterosexual couples. Campaign groups who fought tirelessly for the rights of same sex marriages were established. Equal Marriage 2008 was formed in Scotland and Equal Love in 2010. Protests and rallies were common and the groups vowed to

“Our experience was a positive one, we had an amazing time planning our wedding, we did the majority of planning in Thailand by the pool, we set the date for exactly 1 year after we viewed the venue and a month after a beautiful proposal. It was a Christmas wedding and so was the theme, we had real Christmas trees and lots of flowers. When looking around we had to make sure that venues were LGBTQ friendly but it wasn’t too difficult, a lot of them are now! We had a beautiful day, the ceremony and reception were both at Stirk House, Gisburn, who made sure our day was perfect. We wish we could do it all again!”

IM. TAM ARE .CL

Today: Huge progress has been made since the original laws were passed in 2013, with thousands of LGBTQ couples tying the knot in a huge variety of venues all in their own unique and wonderful way. Danielle says of her wedding day to her wife Naomi:

CO.

2019 Same sex marriage was passed as legal in Northern Ireland, a huge step forward. The first ceremony took place on the 11th Feb 2020.

BY EMMA ADAMS

2014 The first same sex weddings took place on the 29th March 2014. Scotland followed suit with the first on the 29th December of the same year.It was a landmark day in history and celebrations were HUGE! John and Mike, who have been together for 15 years and previously in a civil partnership wrote: “After years of not being officially recognised as a “proper” couple, to be able to officially marry marks the best day of our lives.”

WWW

1960 Not only the beginnings of a sexual revolution and the contraception pill, but the first pioneering gender realignment surgery from male to female took place. To cover these changes the law was updated in 1967 to prevent trans marriages with Lord Justice Ormrod stating that “Marriage was dependent on sex not gender.”

2013 The British Government passed a law that decreed that same sex couples could legally marry.

GE:

1860 A lady named Arabella Hunt made history when she married her partner, Amy Poulter, dressed as a man and under the fake name of ‘James Howard’. Arabella described her wife as: “A perfect lady in all her parts.” The marriage was later annulled on the grounds that they were both female and in no circumstances able to be joined in matrimony.

continue until their voices were heard and the law changed.

IMA

t’s hard to believe that it was only in 1967 that it was made legal for two men over the age of 21 to have sex...less than 50 years ago. Intrigued by its history I delved into the evolution of gay marriage in the UK and spoke to couples about their different experiences. I found the earlier stories difficult, and often heartbreaking to write. Yet with struggle, the triumph is all the sweeter.

Daley +

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# E V O L U T I O N O F G AY M A R R I A G E

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

04/08/18 | SECRET TOWER

Rachael and Al met in Brighton and moved to Rachaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home town, Newcastle Upon Tyne, together. The proposal was personal and true to them, at home on the sofa on a Friday night after Al had just finished cooking Rachaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite meal, Pad Thai. He played KISS and got down on one knee. She cried, she swore, she said yes!

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

WE WANTED THE DAY TO BE AS RELAXED AND INFORMAL AS POSSIBLE, FOR OUR GUESTS TO COME AND GO AS THEY PLEASED THROUGHOUT THE DAY AND FEEL COMFORTABLE, WELLWATERED AND FED!

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

What was your favourite part of your day? Rachel: The speeches. Just sitting at the table and looking around at everyone I love in one place, it all hit me. Al: Seeing Rachael for the first time walking down the aisle.

Where did you save?

Rachael: We saved big on decor as we did that ourselves. By â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; I mean me and an army of women working up until the night before the wedding hand-making foliage arrangements.

Where did you splurge?

The tent from Pitched Events but it was so worth it, it really made the day especially being so lucky with the weather!

What advice would you give to couples planning their wedding day?

Only make decisions that are right for you both. Don't try to please everyone, be selfish! The best advice that was given to me was, on the day make sure you step back and take it all in because it'll be gone in a flash, don't rush about checking on everyone and everything- just enjoy it and be present as much as you can. 92

# A LT W E D D I N G I N S P O

SUPPLIERS PHOTOGRAPHER: WWW.UNSCRIPTEDPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK | CATERER: WWW.ELKANTINA.CO.UK | BRIDES BOUQUET: WWW.WILDFLOWERFLORIST.CO.UK CAKE: GBCUPCAKERY.CO.UK | HAIR STYLING: LISAJONESHAIRANDMAKEUP.CO.UK | MAKEUP: INSTAGRAM @ARNIE_TAYLOR | INVITATIONS: WWW.WILDWOODPAPER.CO.UK | BRIDAL WEAR: MARRIMEBRIDALWEAR.CO.UK | GROOMS WEAR: WWW.RALPHLAUREN.CO.UK | CEREMONY: WWW.THESECRETTOWER.CO.UK | RECEPTION: SUMMERHILL BOWLING CLUB, FRIENDSOFSUMMERHILL.ORG.UK | TRANSPORTATION: WWW.MERLINWEDDINGCARS.CO.UK | BEER: FLASHHOUSEBREWING.CO.UK | TENT: PITCHEDEVENTS.CO.UK LIGHTING CENTRE PIECE: WWW.FESTOONLIGHTINGHIRE.CO.UK

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

22/07/2017 | VILLA FARM

Alex proposed to Cat on her birthday. He had planned a really romantic proposal on the Newcastle Quayside but just couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait. Instead he popped the question in their bedroom much to the shock of their new kitten who couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work out why the humans were screaming! They spent their wedding with their loved ones sharing what they both enjoy: vintage, polka dots and indie music. 94

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

WE GOT TO SPEND ALL WEEKEND SURROUNDED BY ALL THE PEOPLE WHO LOVED US AND WE LOVED.

# R E A L A LT W E D D I N G

What was your favourite part of your day? Cat: I loved having everyone I loved in the same place and marrying the man I loved. It was amazing to look out during the wedding breakfast and see all these smiling faces who were there for us. I also loved our first dance and getting ready in the morning with my bridesmaids and Mum.

Alex: Seeing Cat get out of her wheelchair and walk down the aisle looking absolutely amazing. Also playing drums with the Beatles tribute band to one of our songs was pretty up there too.

Where did you save?

Alex: Our family and friends were a huge help and Cat, a wheelchair user, who thought she would have to have a dress made saved by finding the perfect dress off the hanger.

Where did you splurge?

Cat: Food and booze! As Alex is a chef, the food was very important and menu tasting was definitely a highlight for him during the wedding planning.

What advice would you give to couples planning their wedding day?

The best advice we can give is to make sure you have 5 minutes to yourselves. The whole day goes by in a blur and you need 5 minutes to think “Wow we got married!” In terms of planning, take any help people offer you, but remember it’s your day and you will never please everyone. Also, don’t stress if someone can’t make it, you’ll still have an amazing day with the people who are there. Most of all enjoy it, we wish we could do it all again.

SUPPLIERS PHOTOGRAPHER: AMELIAJANEWEDDING.COM | CATERER: PURPLECHILLIEVENTCATERING.COM | STYLING: INSTAGRAM @BETHLOVESBALAYAGE JEWELLERY: RINGS FROM H SAMUEL, THE REST BORROWED FROM FAMILY INCLUDING MY GRAN WHO PASSED AWAY BRIDAL WEAR: WWW.FAIRYGOTHMOTHER.CO.UK | GROOMS WEAR: BEN SHERMAN | BRIDAL PARTY: WWW.VIVIENOFHOLLOWAY.COM | CEREMONY LOCATION: WWW.VILLA-FARM.COM | MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT: WWW.THEBEATLESREVOLUTION.CO.UK | MARQUE AND FURNITURE: WWW.YORKSHIREYURTS.CO.UK ICE CREAM: ITSFETE.CO.UK | FIREWORKS: WWW.THEFIREWORKERS.COM | SEAMSTRESS: DIVADESIGNSFORYOU.CO.UK 96

AltAdvert_Layout 1 04/06/2020 20:02 Page 1 BOUQUETS • BUTTON HOLES • CORSAGES • HAIR ACCESSORIES

Alternative Wedding Planner Ellabellaevents.co.uk

Made to match any theme/colour scheme Steampunk, Gothic, Rockabilly, Sci-Fi, Fanstasy, Comic & Traditional Crafted using a range of buttons, brooches, charms, faux flowers and paper flowers Hampshire based | Delivering worldwide @Alternative & Vintage Weddings | 0788449089 Photo: Lisa Gigante Photography

07590 610101

Jodie@ellabellaevents.co.uk Photos: Day & Knight Photography

#LOVEISNOTCANCELLED

BY MICHELLE JONES

IMAGE: LUCXAMA SYLVAIN

MJ WEDDING PLANNER

#LOVEISNOTCANCELLED

The whole world may have been turned upside down and everything as we knew it may look completely different but the one thing we still have is the love we feel for each other! There has never been a greater need to celebrate love. Love protects us from so much and it is the greatest tool in supporting our mental health. Covid-19 may have stripped us of many things, harming our physical and mental health but it sure hasn’t altered the love in our hearts.

ow are all of you lovely couples? It’s been one hell of a rollercoaster. I’m emotionally and physically exhausted by it all. The Covid-19 Pandemic has ripped through our lives and it’s still going, with none of us knowing the long-term impact but feeling the impact it has had on our mental wellbeing on a daily basis. As restrictions ease, it’s going to become even more challenging for couples. We are moving from postponing weddings, due to Government legislation, to weddings going ahead under strict guidelines. The best tools to protect the mental welfare of your wedding experience is understanding what you ultimately want, communicating with your supply chain, gaining the support of family, friends and professionals and ultimately acceptance. Once all the decisions have been made and the arrangements changed, it is time to celebrate because although weddings as we know may be cancelled, love certainly is not and the best way to protect your wedding experience and the effect the pandemic has had on our mental wellbeing is to celebrate and share love.

Throughout the last few months I have encouraged all couples to keep the wedding planning alive, celebrate what would have been their wedding day; have family wedding activities online, hen and stag parties over video call, get creative with your guests and keep the wedding fun going. Now, we can actually see people, so we have even more ways we can celebrate. Keep planning, keep celebrating, keep the excitement going, keep sharing the wedding love. You have been given the opportunity to let your love shine brighter! Just be mindful of your emotions and feelings, this situation is not something we can control but we can control how we react to it. It's ok not to be ok. If you are struggling with your mental wellbeing, if you can’t stop crying, stop the anger or are feeling numb please seek help. If your thoughts are negative or not rational please seek help. If you feel anxious, can’t sleep or are fatigued, are under or over eating please seek help. If you or

anyone you know are presenting any symptoms of mental illness due to your wedding, the pandemic or life in general, please speak to a loved one or a professional. Written by Michelle Jones Wedding Planner Championed by Steph Cade from MIND charity

Share the love on your special day by supporting Mind. Together we’ll make sure no one has to face a mental health problem alone. Get Mind wedding favours and find out more about making a difference at your wedding

mind.org.uk/weddings

Registered charity no. 219830

IMAGE: WWW.FALLENSTARPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

# PA N D E M I C W E D D I N G P L A N N I N G

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# PA N D E M I C W E D D I N G P L A N N I N G

Planning Your Wedding During a Pandemic. “My wedding was meant to be 58 days away...now it’s 58 weeks.” The title of this article, needs little or no explanation. Covid 19 has affected us all dramatically over the recent months. Our lives have changed completely, and we have nothing in our lifetimes to measure it against.

o what happens to those people that are currently planning their wedding, or for lots of couples that were due to get married this year, who have had to postpone or even cancel their wedding altogether? What do you do, and how do you get through it? I’m going to give you a few bits of advice and tips about moving forward, hopefully with as little stress as possible. So here we go… First up, if your wedding this Summer has been cancelled, I send you my condolences and a massive hug. It’s okay not to be okay about this. Many couples I’ve spoken to have felt guilty for feeling sad about this unexpected and upsetting change in events due to the suffering that is occurring around the world. It’s natural to feel sad, it’s a milestone taken away, something completely out of your control. I spoke to Grace who was meant to be marrying her fiancée Calum this Summer and she summed up the feeling of loss and disappointment perfectly: “We were supposed to get married this Summer but unfortunately they said we needed to move it. I’ve not stopped crying, we’ve moved it to a random Thursday in September which we are gutted about but just want to get married this year. We still don’t know if it will go ahead and who can be there so it’s day by day at the moment. All the gifts for the wedding party have now got the wrong date on and lots of people can’t make the new date.” So how do you cheer yourself up and try and keep upbeat during lockdown? Knowing how upset Grace was about missing her upcoming hen do in France, her lovely fiancé Calum surprised her with a virtual hen do with her friends and family via Zoom complete with food, booze and props to make it really special for her. Grace was over the moon at this gorgeous gesture, and it just goes to show that resourceful, positive couples can get through anything.

Many registrars are doing virtual ceremonies where you can video link with family and friends to ensure you keep your wedding date. These have proved popular and are surprisingly personal and intimate with couples planning on having a post wedding party when lockdown is over. If you have paid for your venue and services like flowers, photographers and transport they are legally obliged to either place your order on hold until you pick a new date or give you a refund. Have conversations with your suppliers, the wedding industry like every other sector will be keen to restart, and therefore should be more than willing to help you. I spoke to Michael and Jay who were planning on tying the knot next year who said that it hasn’t been too difficult at all... “ We’ve got everything sorted and deposits paid, our venue has been amazing with advising and reassuring us that we will have the day that we want. The delays have also meant that we’ve got time on our hands to really think about what we want and to save up a bit more cash to make it extra special.” This pandemic has highlighted what we knew already, the need for human connection, being with our families, loved ones and friends is really the only thing that matters in our lives. When the weddings that have been cancelled, postponed and been clouded by disappointment eventually happen and we are all together again, I guarantee these beautiful occasions will be even more magical and emotional than we ever thought possible. *At the time of going to press Prime Minister Boris Johnson had relaxed lockdown on the 23rd June with measures that included opening up places of worship and socially distant weddings for up to 30 people being allowed to take place. The joy of this huge step is summed up by The Bishop of London Sarah Mullally who said “There will be real joy as we begin to come together again, even if it is at a physical distance”.

BY EMMA ADAMS 101

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