Bond Bride Magazine Issue 5

BRIDE

BOND CREATIVE INSPIRATION FOR THE STRONG, STYLISH BRIDE

ISSUE 5

PLAN YOUR WEDDING DAY IN STYLE WITH OUR LITTLE BLACK BOOK OF WEDMIN

KATE BEAVIS - MAGPIE WEDDING "Welcome to the fifth issue of BOND Bride Magazine, the digital magazine from the team behind the creative & contemporary blog and The ECO Wedding Show - Magpie Wedding.

2022 is set to be the busiest year for weddings since the early 1980s. If you're reading this then maybe 2022 is your wedding year (yay!) and we are here for you; from planning advice to supporting you with your wedding wellbeing.

The magazine is packed full of beautiful wedding inspiration. From a real city elopement to full-on boho vibes with a Shop The Look section for each one. We are all heart eyes over the cover shoot; a beautiful luxe wedding in Bath filled with pretty peach tones. As always we have included useful articles to support you with your planning. Look out for relaxing yoga tips, how to have a zero-waste wedding, planning your day equally and what to consider if you have autistic guests. Remember that all adverts, shopping pages and supplier info are clickable so you can easily find your dream supplier or product.

Enjoy!

x e t a K

Get involved with BOND Bride Magazine If you have a real wedding that you' d like to submit to the magazine or blog, or want to be considered for the trend pages or advertising, email us at submissions@magpiewedding.com

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Cover Photographer: @jenniferjanephotography

05

An Ethical Elopement

16

A Regal Romance

25

Arizona Nights

35

Modern City Elopement

44

Colourful Eco Wedding

67

Wedding Dress Trends

72

Planning A Wedding Equally

76

Planning A Zero Waste Wedding

81

Wedding Wellbeing

92

Marriage Matters

AN ETHICAL ELOPEMENT

This beautiful UK elopement, set in the Cambridgeshire countryside is full of intimate romance and rustic vibes. With smaller weddings and elopements becoming increasingly popular it's the perfect example of planning a wedding that's just about the two of you. Ethical elements are aplenty and it uses its beautiful surroundings as a natural backdrop for some epic photography.

Perfect for a non-traditional couple looking for a rustic wedding amongst nature. We hear from the team behind this look...

Inspiration “With this shoot, we wanted to show that romantic and relaxed elopements and small weddings aren't something you have to jet off abroad for! This intimate and stylish celebration was held much closer to home, with just as much love but a smaller carbon footprint”

"What matters most is choosing a venue that is special to the two of you"

“To turn this theme into a reality you need to take the time to think about what places you already hold dear and look at the places around you through a fresh perspective. Remember, if you opt for a celebrant-led ceremony then literally anywhere can be your venue and backdrop.

Whether you opt for grand or seemingly mundane to the outside eye, what matters most is choosing somewhere that is special to you both.”

Styling “To reflect the relaxed celebration and natural surroundings, the styling was kept rustic, laid-back, and grounded, but with small elements of luxury to elevate the look. A fantastic small collection of hired items, all vintage and preloved, were enough to make a statement for this shoot, enhancing their natural surroundings rather than trying to mask these."

Photography “As this concept was focused on a relaxed and romantic summer's evening, a warm photography style that would capture that hazy summer evening light was ideal... always consider the season and the warmth you want your photos to emit when choosing a photography style for your day."

Flowers “The flowers were seasonal, foam-free, locally grown where possible, and embraced texture and form to create an impactful spray as part of the ceremony backdrop with relatively few flowers. The bridal bouquet and buttonhole contained warm tones, texture, and even a little underdeveloped pink blackberry made it into the buttonhole, a nod to the British natural setting and season!”

The Dress “This Poppy Perspective dress had the perfect balance between elegance, detail and comfort, ideal for feeling both special but also free to move around, relax and be yourself throughout your laid-back celebration. This dress was made from upcycled and reclaimed fabrics, lace and trims, working perfectly with the sustainable and natural essence of this concept.”

Hair and Makeup “As this shoot was undertaken during covid restrictions the bridal model completed her own hair and makeup, being encouraged to opt for a natural look that allowed her summer freckles and radiant summer glow to remain prominent.”

Cake and Catering “This small but perfectly formed cake continued the laid-back vibe of the day with soft buttercream icing and delicate pressed flowers in muted warm tones adding a simple yet highly effective finish.

To add to the cake, round shortbread biscuits with pressed flowers added a relaxed addition to the catering. The grazing platter complimented the relaxed, lakeside picnic vibe of this shoot, providing a less formal catering option that can be easily scaled up or down to reflect the size of your celebration"

Stationery “The stationery reflected the colours and textures of the florals, helping to create a consistent vibe across all aspects of the celebration”

SUPPLIERS Photographer: @thymelanephoto Styling @smokeandwildwood Planner: @greensoulweddings Venue: @horsleyhalefarm Flowers: @werootuk Dress: @poppyperspective Shoes: @lillydillys Cake @onepartlovebakery Groom: @chimneyformalmenswear Stationery @designbyemilyuk Prop Hire: @arrayweddingandeventhire Silk Ribbons: @bertieandfred Grazing Platter: @thebountifultable

Burgundy belted fedora

Herringbone tweed braces

SHOP THE LOOK

Beeswax candles

Wooden circular tray

Wicker hamper

Vintage amber glasses Affiliate links

A REGAL ROMANCE

"A contemporary palette of nude, peachy tones, set against fresh white linens and a pop of dark greenery"

With a dreamy soft colour palette and an opulent backdrop, this romantic regal wedding in Bath is giving us all the feels.

Set at the iconic Royal Cresent Hotel which featured in the hit series 'Bridgerton' it definitely has the wow factor when it comes to wedding venue magic! It's full of beautiful details and is perfect if you're looking for a luxury vibe on your wedding day. The team behind it shares their inspiration and gives their wedding planning tips too...

"The Royal Crescent is an iconic location in Bath, having featured in the global sensation that is Bridgerton, as well as many other period dramas.

At the centre of the crescent sits The Royal Crescent Hotel - an exceptional example of Regency architecture, with grand, formal interiors. The idea behind this shoot was to create a wedding concept that complemented, yet contrasted the formal, linear quality of the Regency interior with a chic, contemporary and softer scheme, fit for a modern wedding."

"The styling for this shoot was based in tradition – but we gave it a distinctly contemporary twist. We wanted the look to complement and work with the interiors, yet offer a fresh, youthful and more relaxed aesthetic. From the stunning gown to the tumbling floral arrangements and generous sharing platters – we aimed to combine the sense of luxury, opulence and romanticism of the Regency period, with contemporary designs, materials and modern ways of celebrating. This approach would work well for any couple thinking of getting married in a historic venue. It’s an opportunity to put your own modern spin on a historic venue, which is personal and authentic."

"The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is a worldfamous 5* venue in the heart of Bath. It offers individual spaces for smaller, intimate weddings as well as large marquee celebrations. Whether you want to celebrate under the epic chandeliers and Regency grandeur of the hotel interiors or outdoors in the beautiful, flower-scented walled Wedding Garden, it exudes a feeling of luxury and celebration. With an acre of hidden gardens and a luxury spa, it's a relaxing haven right at the centre of the World Heritage City of Bath."

Styling "The styling for this shoot was based around a contemporary palette of nude, peachy tones, set against fresh white linens and a pop of dark greenery. We brought a sense of romance and opulence to the table styling through draped chiffon fabrics, flowing silk ribbons and accents of gold metallics. Great styling is all about layering and contrasting textures as a way to excite and delight the senses. So we chose to combine textured fabrics with sparkling glass accessories, beautiful handmade stationery and luxurious coloured candles as well as mouth-watering sharing platters, interspersed amongst the décor in a relaxed way, perfect for sharing."

Photography "It’s important to understand what style of photography you like and what you’d like to see in your wedding photos.

Do you want a candid, reportage feel, something light and bright with a fine art finish or perhaps something quirky with fun staged shots? Looking through various portfolios is essential, to get a feel for a photographer’s work.

You’ll often find that a few photographers really stand out and that you have a preference for a certain look and feel."

The Dress "Be brave and look outside your comfort zone. I know so many brides (including myself!) who thought they wanted a particular style of dress only to try on a few ‘wild cards’ and fall in love with the exact opposite. The staff in an experienced bridal boutique are experts at this and can help you explore looks and accessories which you may not have considered yourself. Another good tip is to not choose your dress before you’ve decided on your key factors – such as your wedding date, venue and key suppliers. One dress might work perfectly for a summery boho barn ceremony – but it may not work if you’re getting married in a formal stately home in December."

Hair and Make Up "Your hairstylist and make-up artist will be in close proximity to you for several hours on your big day. You may well spend more time with them than anyone else that morning! It is important to get a feel for their personality and choose someone who will make your feel comfortable and at ease."

Flowers "Flowers are key elements in most weddings. They change to look and atmosphere instantly. Whether you want simple bouquets and buttonholes or elaborate floral displays and arches from a floral designer, do your research, check reviews and seek out the style that speaks to you. A good tip is to ask for supplier recommendations. If you’ve chosen a photographer or stylist whose work you love and whose vision you trust– ask them for recommendations.

Chances are they will have worked with florists with similar aesthetic values."

Cake "A beautiful cake can be an absolute work of art and is a fabulous opportunity to make a statement. Consider tying your cake in with your other styling elements from the day– perhaps with the same trailing silk ribbon as your bouquet, or with fresh or sugar flowers echoing the wider floral scheme. But don’t forget the practicalities too! Consider guest numbers and portions when looking at sizing and of course think carefully about the flavour! You can’t please everyone, so don’t choose flavours with your guests in mind. It’s your day, so choose something you both love!"

Stationery "Ask for samples! Options for wedding stationery have boomed in recent years – with fabulous options available for all budgets. Whether working DIY from a template or commissioning a bespoke stationery suite, it’s important to get physical samples and have a good feel. Is the texture right? Does it have enough weight? How does it make you feel when you open it? Do the colours work with your chosen palette? Do the fonts evoke your style and theme? Things look so different on screens, so physical samples are really helpful when making these decisions."

SUPPLIERS INVOLVED Photographer: @jenniferjanephotography Venue: @royalcrescent_hotel Dress: @madilanebridal Dress Boutique: @laceandgracebridalboutique Jewellery: @svbridaljewellery Styling: @ambiencebath Flowers: @goldfinch_floralstudio Hair and Makeup @lbmakeupandhair Cake: @poshandcake Catering: @threelittlefigsuk Sationery: @caboodleweddings Silk Ribbons: @thesilkstudio.uk Model: @xthirowshie.srix

GET 20% OFF WITH CODE UniqueBride20

Delilah Cosmetics

Rafffia placemats

SHOP THE LOOK

Crystal glasses

Glass charger

Table runner

Affiliate links

ARIZONA NIGHTS

With rich colours and rock and roll gothic edge this aptly named 'Arizona Nights' inspirational shoot is perfect for the offbeat couple who are looking for something alternative for their wedding day. With some very talented wedding suppliers and the most amazing black wedding dress, it's full of epic details. We hear from the team behind this look who share planning tips too...

"I used to live in Phoenix and still follow the wedding trends over there, I wanted to showcase a bohemian/country style right here in Yorkshire to show couples they can achieve any style they want with the right inspiration "Finding the right like-minded suppliers to bring your vision to life will really help. Choose a rich colour scheme with burnt oranges, mustard and black. Try to conduct the majority of your day outdoors, try and get out for those perfect 'golden hour' pictures, that will give your images that destination vibe and most importantly don't be afraid to be bold with your choices."

Venue "Jervaulx Abbey is a beautiful exclusive outdoor venue in North Yorkshire. It's one of my favourite spots. A completely DIY venue that allows you to let your imaginations run wild. Its ancient ruins are the most breath taking backdrop."

Styling "We created a statement table with over-head Edison bulb and pampas grass installation. On the table, we used natural linen cloths, a mix of fabric to give it texture and lots of fresh flowers and beautiful coloured taper candles."

Photography "Hayley is so much fun to work with, she really likes a laugh and instantly puts her couples at ease. Finding a photographer whose style you love is important but, so is finding one who makes you feel comfortable.

That will really come across in your final images."

"Flowers for me are the backbone of your wedding, they are such a huge part of the day and can make any wedding WOW, instantly"

The Dress “I knew we need a real statement dress, not only one that was perfect for the theme but also for our model.

Ellie loved wearing this black crape dress with statement fringed sleeves, she said it was something she would definitely choose for her big day. This incredible design is from Shikoba”

Hair and Makeup “I am a huge Stevie Nicks fan and she was my inspiration for Ellie's hair and makeup. Charlotte created an impactful smokey eye that Stevie herself would have been proud of and teamed it with a neutral lip and flawless skin.”

Flowers "Flowers for me are the backbone of your wedding, they are such a huge part of the day and can make any wedding WOW, instantly. Emma created a beautiful bouquet for Ellie, tables flowers in vintage bowls and two incredible floral columns for the ceremony part of hour shoot."

Cake "Where The Ribbon Ends always make the most amazing cakes. They incorporated the colour scheme into their design and used wafer paper to decorate and then it was finished with a mix of dried and fresh flowers"

The Details "We didn't include stationery in this shoot but my top tip is to use the same designer to create all your stationery from invites to on-the-day items, like menus, place names and signage. This means the theme is consistent all the way through"

SUPPLIERS INVOLVED Photographer @hayleygellphotography Venue @jervaulxabbeyweddings Dress @shikobabride Groom @ASOS Accessories @rebeccaannedesigns Styling My Pretties UK @myprettiesuk Florist @thepetalstudio Makeup @charlotte_mallindermup Hair @hairbytosetti Cake @wheretheribbonends Lighting @lovelightstw Bell Tent - @bearsandbutterflies Catering @bluescatering Musician @marriedttmusic Dried flower crown @f.o.l.k.y.d.o.k.e.y Jewellery @loft.and.daughter Models @that.odd.couple

Multi strand necklaces

Snakeskin boots

SHOP THE LOOK Black wedding dress

Pampas Grass

Lightbulbs Affiliate links

A MODERN CITY ELOPEMENT

This intimate elopement is a dreamy boho city wedding at its finest; with a simple and chic colour scheme, a modern bridal jumpsuit and incredible florals! If you’re looking for some city wedding inspiration then look no further. We hear from the team behind this look...

Inspiration “We wanted to create a classic, romantic and fun city elopement inspired by classic romantic films to inspire couples that you can have an incredible wedding with just the two of you. I was inspired by vintage weddings and films where a couple gets whisked away in a vintage car after their wedding-ready to start their new lives together."

"When it comes to planning your dream day think about the two of you and what you love. Maybe you have a favourite city, hobby, car or favourite bar somewhere? Or maybe you just love adventure?

Include all of these in your day and just have fun with it! The day is yours so make it your own so it feels authentic to you. Another tip would be to find a team of suppliers whose work you love and get them involved in helping plan your day and head off for an adventure together!”

Location “Guildhall in Bath is a beautiful venue with a sweeping staircase which gives it a really grand feel.

It’s in the centre of Bath and is perfect for elopements. For this wedding, look think English vogue vibes! For something different look for alternatives to the traditional wedding dress such as jumpsuits, a suit or an outfit that you will be comfortable in all day while exploring the city.

Comfortable shoes are a must so either wear flats or bring flats with you.”

"Choose a photographer that is on your wavelength. Your photographer is going to be with you all day and you need to make sure that you’re going to have a great time together."

Wedding Planning Advice Photography “Choose a photographer that is on your wavelength.

Your photographer is going to be with you all day and you need to make sure that you’re going to have a great time together. If you're outgoing then choose a photographer who’s just as outgoing as you or maybe you’re not so comfortable being in front of the camera then choose a photographer who is going to make you feel confident and comfortable having your photo taken. Your photographs will be with you forever so make sure you love everything about your photographer!”

The Dress “Create a Pinterest board of your favourite dresses and then find bridal boutiques that have similar style dresses. When trying dresses on don’t be afraid to try a style you hadn’t thought about as you might surprise yourself! Find a hair and makeup artist whom you can really chat to and who will listen to what kind of style you would want for your wedding day. They will be with you on your wedding morning so you really want to make sure you feel comfortable with them”

The Details “Choose your flowers based on your colour scheme and vibe of your wedding. Dried flowers look beautiful at a boho-themed wedding and fresh flowers really suit grand weddings. When it comes to stationery there are so many different styles you can choose from. Choose an artist and a style that will tie your whole wedding day together. The invites can give your guests a sneak peek of what to expect of your theme” “When choosing your videographer you really want to get on with them as much as your photographer as they will be by your side for the whole day too. Look at their work and at how they tell a story. Make sure you love them as a person and their style”

SUPPLIERS INVOLVED Photographer @megandonatiphotography Venue Guildhall Bath Dress @love_spell_designs Hairband @nessbridal Accessories @thelucky6pence Groom Suit @suaveowl Styling @wildwoodweddingsandevents Florist @oliveandochre HMUA @roseforresthairandmakeupartist Model Couple @the_standenwaites Stationery @abbiewortondesign Earrings @mutedluxe Confetti @dreamingofconfetti Car @thebohobug

Bespoke headband

Love Is In The Air brolly

SHOP THE LOOK

Dried palm leaves

Textured drop earrings Affiliate links

A COLOURFUL ECO WEDDING

Unique, relaxed, modern, colourful and abstract whilst being mindful to reduce its environmental and social impact. This team wanted to show that sustainability is about an approach rather than simply a natural, earthy, 'green' vibe. We catch up with the team to hear more...

"It tells the story of a couple who want their day to be fun, family and friend focused, and reminiscent of their quirky and lively personalities. We wanted to promote diversity and representation within weddings, choosing to have a pregnant bride and an inclusive wedding party."

"One of the key hopes from this shoot was to show that to have a sustainable wedding it doesn't have to be 'green', rustic, or earthy. You can embrace your own style, your own personality, and go as big and bold as you wish, because sustainability is about the approach you take and the decisions you make, not the finished look."

Venue "Clophill Eco Lodges is a unique venue centred around the ruins of a church and established as a heritage trust in order to protect their history and the beautiful site on which they sit. Providing a fantastic blank canvas to really add your own personality and finishing touches, this venue seemed the perfect opportunity to show how ethical, quirky and bold can combine perfectly!"

Styling "With an aim to break the mould and do something different, our styling really allowed us to fully embrace this, incorporating abstract shapes, bold colours, striking backdrops and quirky details. We created a styled 'glass washing' area, utilising a fantastic idea we had been inspired by and encouraging guests to choose a glass to claim and use as their own throughout the celebration, and then keep as their favour too."

Photography "A photographer who shared our eco-conscious passion as well as enjoying capturing colourful celebrations was our criteria for this shoot"

The Dress "For our pregnant 'bride', the cut of the dress was so important to ensure comfort as well as style, something that the Joni wrap dress could happily provide no matter the size of the bump. Rewritten's new bridal range are all beautifully designed for the conscious bride, using sustainable and recycled materials, so this dress was an obvious choice. For a change of outfit as the celebrations progressed, we opted for a preloved dress from Vinted as another sustainable bridalwear choice, reducing the single-use nature of many wedding dresses."

"The diverse range of dress styles and colours available in Rewritten's bridesmaid range meant our wedding party could be fully included yet still coordinated, despite differing gender identities and body shapes. Choosing a singular colour or colour palette for your wedding party and allowing each member to choose their own outfit is a fantastic way of promoting individuality and increasing the chances that their outfit will be one they choose to re-wear."

Hair and Makup "The bridal models' beautiful maroon pixie hair cut was accented by a striking asymmetrical flower crown, bursting with large blooms and secured with a beautiful naturally dyed ribbon. Her makeup was kept natural, allowing the flower crown to really stand out and simply emphasising the natural characteristics and beauty of our model. The addition of a deep red lipstick added that final touch of personality and rounded off the look perfectly."

Flowers "British blooms are so abundant in colour during the summer that it made an all British, foam-free, locally grown and seasonal floral display a perfect ecoconscious choice for this shoot. The asymmetrical pillars of blooms worked perfectly combined with the abstract aisle panels, and the vibrant blooms continued through the bridal bouquet, groom and pageboy buttonholes, and the wedding party bouquets too!"

Cake "Keen to showcase that bold can be beautiful across all aspects of your wedding day, this striking cake was a real centrepiece. The cake also utilised a purely decorative layer, a fantastic option aesthetically but also a way to achieve a larger cake without producing additional waste for a smaller wedding or celebration"

Stationery "Reflecting their quirky personalities, the stationery included abstract shapes and combined bold fonts with a simple design to emphasise the key details. Instead of a traditional gift list, this stationery suite included a link to a gift registry from which guests could choose to donate second-hand items or offer a helping hand to the newlyweds with their expectant arrival. We wished to showcase this as a fantastic eco alternative to a gift list, one that normalises a preference for preloved donations and experiences over the need for new material items."

The Details "Confetti always adds a colourful and fun element to any celebration, and here we chose to use naturally dried petals and fallen leaf confetti available in a natural bag or in individually portioned bags that are encouraged to be returned to the confetti producer afterwards for continual reuse. The beautiful linens used in this shoot, from the ribbons to the table runners, were all lovingly hand-dyed using natural colourings and techniques."

SUPPLIERS INVOLVED Photography @photographybykatrinamatthews Venue @clophillecolodges Dress and Bridesmaids @rewrittenbridesmaids Evening Dress @vinted Styling @allthingsconsideredevents Florist @tytheflowers Florist Assistant @untamed_florals Hair @kateatalaybespokehair Makeup @alikynoch Cake @cake_wise Planner @greensoulweddings Prop Hire @thewhiteemporium Gift Registry @patchwork_wedding Confetti @uniquelyfunky Table Runners Textile Design and Ribbons @miasylviaa Stationery @ilikepensstudioky

Coloured Soy Candles

SHOP THE LOOK Bridesmaid Dresses

Paper sunflowers

Black and white plates

Affiliate links

VERY PERI Pantone Colour of the Year

Ginger Ray

A purple hue it is! Pantone has released their 2022 colour of the year as ‘Very Peri' As always we now wait in anticipation to see all the complimentary wedding products that will launch into the wedding industry to allow us to create a beautifully styled wedding where this colour will be the focus. With its tones of both blue and red, it’s perfect for any season but will truly shine for spring/summer nuptials.

“Displaying carefree confidence and a daring curiosity that animates our creative spirit, inquisitive and intriguing PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri helps us to embrace this altered landscape of possibilities, opening us up to a new vision as we rewrite our lives. Rekindling gratitude for some of the qualities that blue represents complemented by a new perspective that resonates today, PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri places the future ahead in a new light.”

Poppy and Sage Photography / Cakehouse by Katrinaallan

"A Bold and unapologetic Colour; exactly what we need for 2022”

The Embroidered Napkin Company

Styling When it comes to styling your very peri purple wedding, there are lots of different options out there. This has lots of layers and is bold and unapologetic, exactly what we need for 2022, and exactly what you should be for your wedding day! If you’re looking to make a statement then choose the more neon tone of this colour and go bright! For a spring-summer wedding, use bright violet purples against lilac tones. For a more autumn winter vibe, use deeper shades and smouldering tones. It’s definitely a colour that can fit into many themes. Here are just a few ideas of how you could include it in your styling for the big day.

Sienna Mail Invitations

Stationery Your stationery is the first thing your guests will see so make it stand out, using your wedding colours as the focus. This is an opportunity to really mix the tones of this Pantone colour; pick out the dark and light tones and use them to create a seamless wedding invitation. Use bright purple for a vibrant look and feel, or muted tones if you’re going for a more classic luxurious look. We love these designs, and they truly show the scope you can have when it comes to using these colours and moulding them to your theme.

Love Heart Confetti

Vida Designs

Cake and Confectionery Using a muted colour of very peri will be super stylish when it comes to a chic wedding day vibe, mix it with bright florals for contrast, or go for a plain wedding cake with coloured frosting inside!

There are some lovely details to add when it comes to your wedding day confectionery. Add dried periwinkle petals to macarons, or have a hand-painted wedding cake.

Little Cake Garden

French Made

AT Jewels

Bridal and Bridesmaids If you’re an alternative bride looking to use purple in your bridal look, then these items are for you. A whimsical floral headpiece or a full-on coloured wedding dress for the big day. If that’s not enough, your bridesmaid can absolutely wear this colour too, it’s a beautiful colour for a spring or summer wedding.

Accessories If you want to carry the theme into your accessories, we love these ones. From periwinkle jewellery sets for you, or your bridesmaids to luxury tie and pocket square set to carry through to your groomsmen. Also, if you’re looking for an alternative wedding ring then look for something with a simple purple stone for a chic wedding day look.

Alison Moore Design

Poppy and Sage Photography / Sew Master Fashions

Chill Out

Ceremony

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Weekend Wedding

Hen Party

CREATIVE FLORAL INSTALLATION IDEAS

by Stacey Hartley- STACEY HARTLEY FLORALS

@lauramarthaphotography @clementineandmoon @libertylane

Flowers play a huge part in the majority of weddings and can have a real impact on the overall look and feel of your wedding. They can also be one of those decisions that can get a little overwhelming. With so much choice and so many options, it's sometimes hard to know what to include.

The amazing thing about flowers is that they are so adaptable and so creative. You can create so many incredible designs and installations with a floral-filled vibe. From big dramatic floral installations to smaller, more delicate yet stunning installations and arrangements.

During your wedding planning, you will have seen so many floral backdrops that have caught your eye. There is so much inspiration for backdrops and sometimes you might not know where to start when it comes to deciding what you want for your wedding vision. If you have your heart set on a floral backdrop then here are some of our ideas...

Frame Backdrops These are still as popular as ever and can take shape on any type of frame, from copper pipe frames to wooden frames. Generally, the flowers are either attached to the legs of the frame from the floor or attached to the corners. That is a choice you can discuss with your florist.

You can simply just have flowers on this or you might want to add some draping fabric too.

Floral Installations Have you ever been or seen an amazing floral installation in a gallery or an event and thought that is something I would love for my wedding?

Floral installations are an amazing way to add drama and creativity to your wedding day.

Whatever the type of flowers you want to use, there is something beautiful your florist can create for you.

Flower Drops

Maybe you want something more delicate for your backdrop? If you want some drama but in an understated way why not try creating a flower drop.

This is a hanging display where single flowers are cascading in a pattern from a point on the ceiling and form a stunning backdrop. You can have them cascade from ceilings, beams or a frame.

Meadows If you love the idea of a floral installation that stems from the floor then why not consider having a meadow arrangement? Meadows are absolutely stunning and are definitely something with an unexpected edge.

They are also really versatile and can be created wherever you like.

You can have them at your feet for your ceremony, have them at the ends of your tables or anywhere else that you think will create that statement.

Steven Macdonald Photography / Dreamboats and Carousels

Hanging Florals

If you have a venue that allows, overhead installations can bring a real sense of atmosphere. You can go for a cloud installation that you might want to hang over you in your ceremony, in your main area or even over your table at the wedding breakfast. You can also create hanging overhead installations that create drama and spectacle. You might want to choose one area that this can go in to add that extra something. You can use an array of flowers for this but dried are stunning and work really well for these types of displays. Another type of floral installation for overhead is a floral chandelier. These are your circle shape style displays that hang just like a chandelier above you. They make such a statement and you can also vary them in size too.

Laura Martha Photography / Clementine Moon / Liberty Lane

Table Arrangements You might not necessarily think of table arrangements as being installations but they absolutely can be. This is a great option for anyone but especially for those of you whose venue might not allow for larger hanging installations. Table arrangements can be long and dramatic or small and compact. Either way, they add a stunning stylish vibe to your wedding decor and are much easier to transport, reuse and repurpose either on your wedding day itself or afterward.

Bowl Arrangements

Bowl arrangements come in all shapes and sizes and can be created in so many variations and styles. You might not think of bowls as being a floral installation but they can be pieces of art. This is a really great option if you are a fan of minimalistic decor and floral arrangements. You can find florists and designers who specialise in creating more minimalistic designs. You can also find inspiration on this from Japanese Ikebana.

There are so many options for floral installations and arrangements and the choice comes down to what you are inspired by and you love. Always make sure you ask your venue if they have any restrictions on hanging etc (it is a good idea to do this when you visit and choose a venue if you have an installation in mind). Whatever type of flowers you go for there are lots of the above options that work really well for each.

WEDDING DRESS TRENDS

Weddings will be back with a bang in 2022, and whether you are planning a low-key event, or a big bash, for most brides the wedding dress will be one of the most important things for the big day. Wedding dress trends for 2022 are big bold and here to make a statement.

With any trends, they are there to inspire and ignite your own vision for your wedding day look. You may choose to have the whole lot if you're a trend-led fashionista, or if you're more of a simple lowkey chic bride, there will be trends you can either dilute to suit your tastes or omit if it's just not you.

Your wedding day is about you and your vision, so whatever you choose make sure you're both comfortable and fabulous in your own unique style! Here are our top 5 wedding dress trends for 2022.

Statement Sleeves Statement sleeves have been slowly creeping their way back into bridal trends for a couple of years, but for 2022 they're back with a bang! Billowing bishop style and vintage shapes are definitely top of the trends when it comes to designer styles. Hurrah, if like me, you're someone who likes to cover the top of their arms... there are lots of you out there! Fitted sleeves are still around but are heavily embellished with 3d florals and beading, perfect if you're looking for a slimmer silhouette when it comes to your wedding dress. If you want two different looks for the big day think about having a detachable sleeve or a cape with sleeves that you can remove for the evening reception.

Salsabil Morrison Photography / Mia Sylivia

Louise Rose Couture Alter Ego Photography

Rock The Frock

Catherine Deane

Bows We saw bows in 2021 and they're still around for the wedding dress trends for 2022! Bows of all sizes have been seen across the catwalks from simple bow sashes, to statement bows on the backs of dresses. This is a great trend to manipulate to your liking as there are so many options.

Again, if you are wanting two different looks, make your statement bow or sash removable so you have the option throughout your wedding day of when to wear it!

MarkUza Photography / River Elliot Bridal

Joanna Claire Sellick /Michelle K Connup / Cambridge Vintage Bridal

Romantic Escapism Smaller weddings are here to stay and nothing says intimate more than romantic escapism, and the feeling of escapism will be more than present (for obvious reasons) as we go through the year! Think big flowing skirts with heavily embroidered lace tops, high necks, and a boho vibe. Perfect for an elopement wedding or a grand affair; this trend is definitely one you can mould to suit your style.

Ethical Dresses Ethical wedding dresses come in all shapes and sizes. From vintage dresses to customising a family dress or hiring your dress. If ethics are important to you and you've decided you would still like to buy a new dress then fear not! There are a growing number of designers out there that are becoming more and more aware of their ethical credentials and we're seeing no more than ever a rise in quality recycled, ethical fabrics, which means a lot of designers are choosing to use these fabrics over synthetic materials. Amazing! Reducing carbon footprint, finding ethical fabrics and buying local are all ways to find an ethical wedding dress. We are all over this trend and we hope to see it continue to grow amongst brides and throughout the wedding industry.

Buying an eco wedding dress doesn't mean it's any less beautiful, if not it's more beautiful because it's pro-planet!

Salsabil Morrison Photography / Mia Sylivia

Rock The Frock

Off-The-Shoulder

Think modern ballgowns and fitted silhouettes with the return of the sexy off the shoulder gown. If you're looking for a chic and classic look then this style is for you. If lace isn't your thing then a simple, luxurious off-the-shoulder satin gown is the way to go! They're perfect for a spring-summer wedding and can be paired with a cape for autumn-winter nuptials too! This simple, stylish trend makes a statement through its fit and cut and with the added allure of a Hollywood siren, it's sure to wow your guests and make you feel fabulous on your wedding day.

Bon Bride / Joanna Brown Photography

Rock The Frock

HOW TO PLAN A WEDDING EQUALLY

GNINNALP GNIDDEW It has always been mentioned that when it comes to wedding planning, the bride is usually the one who plans everything. Maybe with their friends, and with a little input from their partner at some point. If like many people, what you really want is to plan a feminist wedding – then both partners need to be equally involved in the planning process. Often it can get a little misconstrued that feminists want to do everything themselves. Actually, feminists want equal rights for everyone so planning your wedding as equals really highlights this. It still might look different for each couple but here are some ways that you can plan your wedding from a feminist perspective.

Split Roles and Responsibilities Equally We’ve all heard the term ‘Bridezilla’ – the bride who goes a little crazy planning her wedding to exactly the way she wants it without really consulting or considering anyone else involved.

There is no place for a ‘Bridezilla’ in feminist weddings as both partners should be planning the wedding together.

Decide what roles you both want to have and what responsibilities you each want to take right from the start of the process. This way you both get to make decisions on important aspects. The key here is to make them equal to one another so split up the important tasks such as venue finding and supplier sourcing.

Have Regular Discussions and Check-Ins With Each Other If you are planning your wedding together then you should schedule or have regular check-ins with one another. Discuss your findings or people you like and make the big decisions together.

Think about what makes both of you who you are and factor this in.

Not only is this really beneficial so that on the actual day you both know who is going to be there and doing what, but it can also be lovely to schedule time together (especially if you’re very busy people) and sit down and talk about your wedding day plans. Nobody wants to turn up on their wedding day not having any idea as to what is going on do they?

Keeping track and listening to each other’s ideas also means you have fewer conflicts.

Make sure you also take time to check in on how each of you is feeling. Wedding planning can be stressful, so be honest with each other about your emotions and worries. Be there for each other.

Split The Cost Between You Both Typically if you are wanting a feminist wedding then you would agree that paying for the wedding between the two of you is the right option. Of course, agreements might be made with a family that just can’t be shaken but let’s say you do agree that paying yourself is the right thing.

Splitting the costs equally between both partners is the perfect way to feel you have both had an equal part to play, just as we recently discussed both paying for the engagement ring. Agreeing on the budget upfront when you start planning will help keep things on track. Stick to the budget and check in with each other regularly.

You might have a joint account or if not then consider setting up a wedding account that you both put money into and pay for everything for the day from. Doing this creates real equality and then there are no discussions or disputes as to who is going to pay for what and who has paid more than the other.

You may also decide to split the costs to the same % you pay the bills normally. This is where for example, one partner earns twice a much so contributes more than the other.

Whatever your arrangement is and you decide is fair, together, is the way forward.

These are just 3 ways that you can plan your wedding in an equal way. Openly talking and discussing your options together makes everything a lot easier. Plus, deciding from the offset that everything is going to be done together makes both of you feel involved and excited. Wedding planning can be a challenge so what better way to do it than by doing it jointly together. And let’s all agree to banish the word Bridezilla right?

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HOW TO HAVE A ZERO WASTE WEDDING GNINNALP GNIDDEW

At Magpie Wedding, we are huge advocates for how to be more eco. Our ECO Wedding Shows were set up to work with suppliers who are just as passionate as we are about creating change within the industry. If you follow us then you will most likely also be a couple that wants to make a difference. We want to share ways that you can be more sustainable in your choices and create a beautiful zero-waste wedding day.

Nicola Dixon Photography/Anemone Style

It is really easy to get caught up in feeling that you need all of the “stuff” when planning your wedding. For so long weddings have become bigger and bigger, with places constantly giving new ideas for what you should have and do on your wedding day. It’s no surprise that the average cost of a wedding financially (precovid) is now around 30k. But have you ever considered the cost of a wedding on the environment? Have you considered having an eco zero waste wedding?

Food A recent statistic shows that on average a family will waste around £700 worth of food per year but a wedding alone can waste around £488 worth of food on just that day! A wedding can have canapes, a 3 – 5 course meal, evening food, cake and sometimes edible favours on the tables. That is a lot of food for an average person to eat in one day thus generally meaning a lot of waste. Discussing food options with your venue, only having certain courses for the meal and omitting certain aspects of food on the day can all help to reduce food waste. If you are having a cake then talk to your cake designer and consider how many portions you actually need. Do what you can to eliminate food waste and if you still end up with some then have a plan in place. Either give your guests the option to take it home by supplying recyclable takeaway boxes, donate it or talk to your venue about how they recycle it.

Venue There are so many incredible venues out there that are eco-friendly and sustainable. Let them know that you want a zero-waste wedding and ask them how they can help you with this. Talk to them about clearing up and recycling policies and what they provide. If they don’t offer wasteless options then you can look at companies that can help do this for you. You can also speak to your venue about their recommended suppliers and the best one to use in the area for your ethical wedding.

Decorations Eliminating single-use plastic is something we should be supporting especially when it comes to decorations. However, have you considered that one of the main culprits of waste at a wedding is actually paper? As paper is generally more recyclable, it tends to be the go-to option for having less waste.

However, making sure your paper options are recyclable is a must, make sure they’re not coated or contain aspects that aren’t recyclable. Consider how much decoration you are using and hire items for decoration where you can or resell/rehome your items afterwards. Speak to your venue and make them aware that you are having a waste free wedding and that nothing is to be thrown away.

Seasonal Flowers Flowers are a beautiful part of a wedding day but they often go to waste. Finding a florist that works in this area will make it so much easier for you to be as eco as possible and have less waste. A florist or flower grower that works or grows British grown will also allow you to have less waste. They only cut what is necessary and will have their own methods of waste disposal. Using dried or preserved flowers is also another option.

Create a plan of what to do with your flowers on the day and afterward. Reuse them where you can throughout the day and make a plan so they don’t go to waste. Ask your venue if they can reuse them or donate them to a hospice or care home. Doing this means the flowers aren’t going to waste straight after your day and can be reused to bring joy to someone else.

Outfits Wedding outfits can often contribute a lot to carbon footprints. Depending on where you source an outfit it can often be made under unethical circumstances, with fabric that is not sustainable or ethically sourced. Renting your wedding dress is just one way to eliminate waste.

There are also some incredible pre-loved boutiques that sell gorgeous pre-owned or exsample designer dresses at lower price points.

Ethical Suppliers If you want to be as eco as possible, then finding ethical suppliers will make the planning process a lot easier. Make sure you ask them questions about their ethical practices, Are they sourcing locally made products and not importing things from abroad? Do they have vintage or pre-loved items available to work with or hire? Having lots of items that will only ever be used once causes an incredible amount of waste. Plus, importing products made cheaply causes a huge carbon footprint that can so easily be avoided. There are lots of suppliers that are fully eco and sustainable in their work and practices. They will be proud to display and discuss this but you can also ask them questions about it too.

These are just some of the things to consider when it comes to planning an eco, zero-waste wedding. It all comes down to the choices you choose to make. From where you source everything, to what you eat, drink and where to the venue’s policies and what you do afterward. If you consider those points then it will make having a gorgeous eco wedding a lot easier to plan and manage.

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GNIEBLLEW GNIDDEW

UNWIND AND DESTRESS BEFORE YOUR WEDDING WITH YOGA

Photos by Gemma Giorgio Location: Saints Green

by Katie Ann Stewart - YOGA WITH KATIE ANN STEWART

Yoga is an effective tool to help manage stress by promoting relaxation and holistic wellbeing. The power of yoga has a whole host of benefits for both physical mental health.

Too much negative stress is associated with mental health imbalances, chronic pain as well as many other conditions. Yoga helps to regulate our emotional responses to stressors and improves our mind body connection, leading to more positive health and wellbeing

Balasana- Child’s Pose Child’s Pose is a deeply calming restorative posture and allows us a period of intentional rest and quiet. In Child’s Pose, we disconnect the external and turn our attention inwards, focussing our awareness on our breathing, allowing the mind to calm. Child’s Pose is calming for the brain and relieves stress and fatigue.

Come to a kneeling position on hands and knees, bring your big toes together, knees a little wider than hips distance and sit back on your heels As you exhale, fold your torso down between your thighs and walk your hands out in front resting your forehead to the floor.

Close your eyes and breathe deeply resting your awareness in the flow of your breath.

Enjoy this posture for 30 seconds to a few minutes.

Adho Mukha Svanasana, Downward Facing Dog

Downward Facing Dog strengthens the core and improves circulation while providing a wonderful full-body stretch. This energising inversion helps boost energy and fight fatigue, perfect after a long day in the office or wedding planning!

From Child’s Pose Transition to all fours in tabletop position, with your hands slightly forward of your shoulders, knees directly below your hips As you exhale lift your knees up off the floor and lift your hips up and back to come into the pose.

Press the tops of your thighs back, lower your heels towards the ground as you lift the sit bones up high towards the sky.

Focus on your breathing. Once familiar in the pose, you can introduce movement to aid the stretch by peddling the feet out lifting one knee and then the other, or leaning the hips side to side, exploring whatever movement resonates with you in your body.

Stay in the pose for 10 or more breaths, then bend your knees on an exhalation and lower yourself back into Child’s Pose

Uttanasana, Standing Forward Fold

Uttanasana stretches the hamstrings, calves, and hips. Uttanasana helps to soothe anxiety and combats depression, calming the brain and helping to relieve stress.

Begin standing up tall with your feet hips distance, hands resting on your hips As you exhale begin to fold forward your torso over your thighs, hinging from the hips with a soft bend in the knees and bring your hands to rest either side of your feet or in front of you.

Align your sitting bones over heels, shifting the weight to into balls of feet with your forehead facing the shins With every exhale, let your torso soften towards your thighs Option to clasp hold of opposite elbows and take a gentle rock from side to side, releasing and letting go in this wonderful stress-relieving pose.

MOONSTONE

Bridge Pose, Setu Bandha Sarvangasana Bridge pose strengthens the legs and hips, massages the spine, and opens the heart. This posture calms the mind, and the body becomes energised, leaving you feeling revitalized and refreshed.

Begin lying down on your back, bend your knees and bring your heels towards the sitting bones. Position the legs and feet hips distance and rest your arms either side pelvis, palms facing down.

Press down through the inner edges of feet, forearms, and palms and on your inhale lift the hips up into Bridge Pose Press down through the mounds of the big toes as you keep lifting the hips, keeping the knees together Squeeze the shoulder blades together and close the eyes, feeling an opening across the chest, staying here for 5-10 breaths To finish, on your exhale lower to the floor. Allow your back to rest in a neutral state as you observe spaciousness within your chest, feeling energised and uplifted.

Katie Stewart is a qualified 200hr Yoga Teacher specialising in Vinyasa Flow Yoga and teaches weekly classes in Braintree, Essex.

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HOW TO PLAN AN ACCESSIBLE WEDDING WITH AUTISTIC GUESTS

The number of autistic diagnoses in the UK has risen and now 1 in 100 children in the UK are on the spectrum. So it’s more than likely you may have autistic wedding guests at your wedding. So how do you help create a safe, happy environment for those guests while having the wedding of your dreams? How do you prepare for your wedding day if you are autistic yourself? We have three experts on the blog today who have experience with working with autistic people or autistic themselves to give you advice and tips so your wedding is accessible.

Heidi Mavir (she/her) is an autistic adult and parent to an autistic child. She is a writer, podcaster, public speaker and activist. Heidi is currently studying for an MA in Autism Studies and runs the new podcast, “Autistic Actually”.

Ruth Williams Wedding & Event Planner at Eventaholics son was diagnosed as autistic when he was just 6 years old. She got married when he was 4 and was able to create happy spaces for him on that day, having an idea that he may have a sensory processing condition. She focused more on entertainment/fun for the kids and a very neutral decor colour palette.

Designer and dressmaker Holly Winter of Holly Winter Couture has an autistic son, a daughter undergoing assessment and she is also undergoing assessment for autism herself.

They tell us how you can spread the love even more to your lovely guests so they enjoy the day as much as you.

All weddings are different, just the way they should be, so preparation is key with everything when it comes to your wedding day, especially if you have autistic wedding guests. Holly says, “If you know someone you’re inviting is autistic, the best thing to do is ask them what you could do to help them feel as comfortable as possible. Anxiety is often a huge element so ask if there’s anything in particular about the day that they’re worried about. Communication is key as with all aspects of wedding planning” Heidi says, “All autistic people are different – we share a neurotype and “traits” but the saying that “if you’ve met one autistic, you’ve met one autistic” is true. I don’t speak for all autistic people but as an autistic adult, there are definitely some Dos and Don’ts when it comes to inclusive wedding planning”

Planning An Autistic Friendly Wedding If you have autistic guests there are definitely things you need to know when planning your wedding.

Ruth says, “Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) varies so much from person to person. Some people get overwhelmed by lots of sensory input (bright lights, loud noises, new smells, being too hot or cold, etc) or even a lack of it (sitting quietly for a long time), others may be anxious about not having control of events and uncomfortable being out of routine and others struggle to understand what’s socially acceptable behaviour or panic among lots of people they don’t know.”

Invitations Heidi says, “Be aware that you may have autistic guests coming to your wedding who you do not know are autistic – you can’t tell someone is autistic by looking at them. So, the best approach is to include something with your invitations so that they can let you know if they need any adjustments because of their disability or neurotype.”

Holly says, “Include a plan for the day with activities and rough timings. Not knowing what’s going to happen next can be a source of huge anxiety for autistic people. You could include the plan with the invitation, on request, in the order of service or on a chalkboard on the day. Warn those with autism about any surprises you have planned. Sudden fireworks, special guests, unannounced events, etc are lovely for neurotypical people but can be overwhelming for those with ASD.”

Seating Plan Heidi says, “Think about your seating plan – if you can ask your guests where in the room they need to be seated to make being in a busy space easier – if people have auditory processing differences, for example, being in the middle of a room full of chatter can be really overwhelming, even painful and being near the edge of a room can help with that. Similarly, I can’t handle sitting under a speaker if music is playing – it means I can’t hear the conversation.”

Holly says, “Offer to seat people with autism near an exit so they can slip out if they need a break. Let them know if there’s a separate room they can use or space outside where they can go. Have a basket of sensory aids and fidget toys that guests can help themselves to.”

Dining Requirements Heidi says, “Let your guests see the menu in advance. For many autistic people, food can be a sensory nightmare – there is nothing worse than getting to a function to discover that everything on the menu is on my “hell no” list. Be ready to give your autistic guests options – can they have a dietary requirement meal instead? Maybe they would rather bring their own food? This can be particularly true for autistic kids.”

Ruth says, “Knowing what they are going to eat prior to arrival can help ease anxiety and possible meltdowns on the day. For example, my son hates different foods on his plate touching, this is due to a sensory processing disorder that is fairly common in autism. So providing a few extra plates granted there is space on the table can save upset.”

Activities Heidi says, “Provide something for the kids – ALL kids. Children get bored. Autistic kids, in particular, might find a wedding environment overwhelming. Make up a pack for the kids at your wedding (don’t forget the teenagers) to give them something to engage with. Colouring packs are perfect and maybe something to put together or build. Get creative with your favours – ditch the sugared almonds and opt instead for a simple fidget toy. Non-autistic people love them too.”

Holly says; “Let autistic guests know that it’s ok if they don’t want to participate in the whole day and/or would like to bring anything that would help them. This could be their own food, a weighted lap blanket, ear defenders, fidget toys, etc.”

On Your Wedding Day There are lots of things you can do on the day to help your autistic wedding guests environment more comfortable Ruth says, “Activity tablets; I know I know, we all have that “too much screen time” guilt, but let’s be honest, our kids have had loads of it during the lockdown. Tablets are a great way to keep all children at the table entertained, but it’s also a piece of home, something familiar that is great at calming children with anxiety or that are on the spectrum down. Just pop on their favourite game or YouTube video!”

Lights and Noise Heidi says, “Make sure your guests have access to a quieter space – especially if you are having a disco or live music. For me, being in a room where loud music is playing, especially if accompanied by flashing lights, can be really overwhelming. I like a dance but then I need to be somewhere to have a little sit down away from noise and lights and lots of people too.”

Ruth says, “These beauties are actually amazing!! It’s common for a child or adult with autism to be sensitive to loud music or sounds. Ear defenders help muffle out sounds a bit while the rest of you are on the dancefloor. Activity Packs are fantastic for all children but they are an absolute lifesaver when you need to help a child on the spectrum. It can help keep them calm and happy while a lot is going on around them.”

Holly says, “As with any wedding and any guests, be open to things that weren’t in the plan. These are often the details that make the day more memorable. At the last wedding, I went to with my family, the vicar asked the congregation if we, the friends and family of the couple, would support and help them uphold their marriage vows. Our chorus of, “We will,” was closely followed by my autistic 7-year-old loudly pondering, “Will we?”

Top Tips

Don’t put party poppers on tables – they are a sensory nightmare for many autistics.

Don’t “out” your autistic guests – many people have a lot of misunderstanding around what being autistic means and that can be hard to deal with as an autistic person.

Don’t put puzzle pieces on anything you are providing for autistic guests. The puzzle piece is deeply problematic – the imagery is linked to Autism Don’t expect your guests to hug you – this applies to all guests. Consent is important for all people.

Don’t use phrases like “everyone is a little bit autistic” and don’t ask us what kind of autism we have.

Don’t be afraid to ask autistic friends or family members to take an active role in your wedding.

THE SECRETS TO A LONG LASTING HAPPY MARRIAGE SRETTAM EGAIRRAM

Whether you’re reading this while planning your wedding or are already married, knowing the secrets to make it work for a lifetime is gold, right? Today is Valentine’s Day so we thought what better way to celebrate love than to seek the answer for you. We have teamed up with Bupa Care Homes who have spoken to three couples who live at Ashley House in Gloucestershire to find out their secrets – they have 200 years of happy marriage behind them!

Nicola Dixon Photography/Anemone Style

99-year-old Jack Priestly and his wife Grace (98) have been married 74 years and met in Plymouth when Jack was serving in the navy. “For Grace and I, our love has blossomed throughout our 74 years together. We have found that being tolerant and understanding and finding the humour in any situation, are wonderful ways to keep your love burning bright,” shares Jack. They put finding the love of your life down to fate and will be celebrating Valentine’s Day with a movie night at the home.

61 years after their wedding day, Vivienne Robbins (87) has shared her advice for couples wanting to go the distance. She comments: “Make sure you always talk things through together and really try to understand your partner and be patient with them. That, alongside always being loyal, is a great foundation for love.” She’s planning to celebrate Valentine’s Day at the home with her husband Gerald, 88. The happy couple – who say it was love at first sight – say their happiest memories shared together are of the safe arrival of their two daughters.

Ron and Joyce Kelsey – both aged 79 – are another couple celebrating Valentine’s Day live together at Ashley House. Having first met at school when they were 13, they have now been married for 57 years. Their best memories are getting married and being blessed with 3 children, and now 9 grandchildren! Ron commented: “It was love at first sight for me. As soon as I saw Joyce, I knew she was the love of my life and that I had to ask her out. 57 years later and I am so glad I did!”

Joyce has shared her secret to long-lasting love with Ron: “Try to make sure you never go to bed angry with each other. Ron and I always give each other a good night kiss to show that, no matter what little disagreement might have occurred, we always love each other.”

Here is more of their advice: Be honest, take your vows seriously and love each other for the rest of your lives To always look after each other Always spend time together Tell your partner how you feel – let them know you love them and appreciate everything they do Sing, cuddle, listen and talk to your partner!

Tolerance, humour, understanding and sharing Don’t look for a partner; they’ll come to you Make every day a happy one Give and let give Never go to bed angry with one another Always give each other a good night’s kiss Try to understand your partner and be patient with them Be loyal – it’s a great foundation for love Find the humour in any situation – it’ll keep your love burning bright

Thanks to Bupa for sharing this with us! We will all take this advice!