Wed Magazine Devon Issue 57 by WED magazine

D E V O N ’ S D R E A M I E S T W E D D I N G I N S P I R AT I O N

time to shine

ISSUE 57 2023 | £4.99

PLANNING. VENUES. STYLING. FASHION. LOVE STORIES. 1

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LOVE IS...

michaelspiers.co.uk

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4 Devon

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WELCOME

TM CORNWALL’S FABULOUS WEDDING MAGAZINE

Newly engaged? Congratulations and welcome to Wed! From these luxe pages to our information-packed website and inspiration-

- love i n b lo o m -

filled social platforms, Wed is here to make

Planning. Venues. Styling. Fashion. Love Stories.

your planning journey a joyous one. Powered ISSUE 67 2024 | £4.99

by a tiny team based here in the glorious South-west, we’re all about embracing ‘you’ on your wedding day. So throw out the rulebook and prepare to celebrate your lives, loves and unique bond in unashamedly individual style! Once those heady days of newly engaged bliss are over, the task of planning a wedding can feel

GET wed DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR To order single copies or take out a

daunting. Head straight to How to Plan a Wedding

year’s subscription for £20, simply visit wedmagazine.co.uk

(p.76) where some top wedding experts show you how and where to get started. Finding a venue is one of the first tasks and you’ll find an edit of some

JUST ENGAGED!

of Devon’s finest settings to live out your day of dreams – from country house estates and historic castles to rustic barns – in our Venues Guide (p.91). Once you’ve fallen for a venue, it’s difficult to resist getting stuck into the styling – and our styled shoots are sure to set your mood boards alight! From the soft peachy tones and modern accents of Apricot Crush at Brickhouse Vineyard (p.24) to the crisp and elegant aesthetic of Winter Symphony at Rockbeare Manor (p.18), prepare to be inspired by the dreamiest of décor at these enchanting Devon venues. You, Me and the Sea (p.64) draws on the interiors and mesmerising landscape surrounding Gara Rock Hotel for luxe wedding inspiration on the South Devon coast, while Love in Lavender (p.70) is brimming with soft pastel hues and timeless romance.

LOGO GUIDELINES If you’re dreaming of a small and super-personal

wedding, an elopement is the ultimate way of Minimum size

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5 CarbonCO. iCon Centre | Eastern Way | Daventry | NN11 0QB | United Kingdom

z z u b l a d i br regular | BRIDAL BUZZ

Editor Rebecca Matthews

Deputy editor Lucy Lawrence Chief features writer Hannah May Contributors Becci Clubb, Rebecca Green, Hazel Parsons, Phoebe Taylor, Sophie Walker Design Matt Sanwell, Design UNLTD designunltd.co.uk Advertising and Management Brendan Sleeman Website management Jenna Matthews Finance Morwenna Matthews Publisher Wed Magazine 28 Reens Crescent Heamoor Penzance Cornwall TR18 3HW 01736 331456 wed@wedmagazine.co.uk wedmagazine.co.uk Print Deltor Communications Ltd Cover image Photography Danielle Veitch danielleveitch.com Concept, styling & coordination Kept Weddings With Laura keptweddings.co.uk Venue Rockbeare Manor rockbearemanor.co.uk Hair Cindy Beddard Bridal Hair cindybeddardbridalhair. co.uk Make-up Sophie White sophiewhitemua.co.uk Dress Nicola Anne nicolaanne.com Hair accessory & earrings Claire Austin England claireaustinengland.com Rings BWR London bwr-london.co.uk Linen & décor Unique Designs by Tina uniquedesigns.com Model Charlotte Moore instagram. com/charlotteamymoore_

© wed magazine. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be published without written permission. While reasonable steps are taken to check the accuracy of the content within this publication, wed magazine cannot take any responsibility for any mistakes or omissions or the views of our contributors or advertisers. All views expressed in wed are not necessarily those of wed magazine.

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Photography: Freckle Photography, Venetia Norrington, McGivern Photography, Clare Kinchin Photography

SMALL WEDDINGS WITH STYLE Nestled in the Devonshire countryside on the edge of Dartmoor, Coombe Trenchard is an exceptionally beautiful estate set amongst restored Edwardian gardens with an elegant Arts and Crafts house at its heart. The venue’s Petite & Beautiful wedding experience offers a stylish, curated collection of details by proprietor Sarah Marsh who is delighted to announce that Coombe Trenchard will be offering these smaller weddings only from 2024. These weddings have a maximum of 40 guests, inclusive of the bridal couple, and the offer includes working alongside some of the region’s top photographers and a Le Cordon Bleu trained private chef, who will create a bespoke menu for your wedding day and deliver a special wedding cake for the occasion. Sarah brings a truly personal touch to weddings at the venue. In addition to a warm welcome when visiting, she offers detailed knowledge about the house and grounds to ensure each couple is informed and supported with their plans. What further sets her approach apart is her commitment to growing flowers exclusively for weddings, sourced from the cutting garden in the grounds – a testament to the venue’s desire to create a unique and enchanting experience for each couple’s special day. “You might be wondering why Coombe Trenchard has shifted to Petite & Beautiful weddings exclusively, after so many years of wonderful larger gatherings at the venue,” says Sarah. “It is important to us that we respond to demand, whilst delivering a wedding experience that will maintain the high standard of service and offering our couples have been used to over the years.” “Since 2020, demand for smaller weddings has increased significantly as couples look to be more conscious of their spending or are looking for a more intimate experience on their wedding day,” she continues. “We are proud of how our Petite & Beautiful collection, along with our trusted suppliers, allows for an easy planning experience with seamless execution that ensures our couples can really put their personal touch on the day.” Sarah will be alongside each couple throughout their wedding planning journey and on the day, to advise, coordinate and inspire, leaving you to look forward to a petite and personalised event that puts what’s really important to you at the heart of the celebrations. coombetrenchard.co.uk

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BRIDAL BUZZ

TWICE AS NICE Kathryn Clarke-Mcleod is all about feel-good photography for couples favouring a more laidback vibe. Relaxed, documentary-style photography fosters a sense of confidence, real connection and comfort, while Kathryn’s ‘anti-cliché’ approach ensures images that capture your best and most authentic selves for a timeless album you’ll treasure for a lifetime. What’s more, she can combine her expert photography skills with her husband Justin’s professional videography services to offer couples full multimedia coverage of their day. Collaborating with Salty Beard Productions means you’ll enjoy a seamless and unobtrusive duo of professionals who will blend into the background and work together to document both the main moments and minutiae of your wedding. “If you are looking for natural, joyful, cinematic, documentary wedding video in Devon – that shows your personality – then you are in the right place!” enthuses Justin. “You are unique, as individuals and as a couple. As such, your wedding video and photos need to reflect your vibe, your unique love story. I strive

STYLE

14. THE BRIGHT STUFF Gorgeous ideas for a vibrant wedding celebration 18. WINTER SYMPHONY A crisp and sophisticated scene for a country house winter wedding 24. APRICOT CRUSH Choose peachy shades and modern accents for a dreamy, joy-filled day 32. WED’S WISH LIST Our edit of the latest bridal must-haves, from dream dresses to lust-worthy shoes 34. MODERN LOVE Our pick of the hottest bridal fashion trends

to produce exactly that!”

40. WED’S BOUDOIR Bridal beauty tips and trends

With all Justin’s packages including full-day coverage – and Kathryn’s flexible repertoire of services available

48. HOT FROCKS The latest looks for your bride tribe

to customise to suit – expect to relive the elation of your day with stunning storytelling photography and videography you’ll want to share together time after loved-up time.

52. ALL THAT GLITTERS Lust-worthy wedding jewellery crafted in the South-west

kathrynclarkemcleod.com

55. IN WITH THE OLD Exquisite rings inspired by the beauty of days gone by

saltybeardproductions.com

58. SUITS YOU Fashion inspiration for the man of the moment 64. YOU, ME AND THE SEA Natural textures and earthy tones for a luxe wedding on the Devon coast 70. LOVE IN LAVENDER Pretty pastels and elegant styling create a timelessly romantic wedding scene

FEATURES

42. THE BRIDESMAID GUIDE Who to choose? And how to ask? Your journey to bridesmaid bliss begins here 46. BRIDE TRIBE GIFTS Sweet and stylish gift ideas for the special ladies in your life 63. WED’S HIP LIST Fresh, fun and fabulous ways to add a unique touch to your day 76. HOW TO PLAN A WEDDING Get started on your planning journey with this advice from the wedding experts 80. CEREMONIALLY SPEAKING A rundown on the various options for formalising your union 83. PANIC AT THE DISCO! Tackle your big day hiccups with our wedding day SOS 86. CHILD’S PLAY Ensure your youngest guests have the best day with these top tips 110. JUST THE TWO OF US Considering an elopement? Let us inspire you 114. PETITE AND PERFECT Four couples share their teeny big days in Devon

REGULARS

6. BRIDAL BUZZ What’s new, what’s hot, what’s on 91 WED’S VENUES GUIDE The ultimate guide to Devon’s finest wedding venues

WORDS OF LOVE “Love one another, but make not a bond of love: let it rather be a moving sea

121. GOT WED Newly-weds share a glimpse of their day 162. NOTES ON A WEDDING Top tips for your planning pleasure

between the shores of your souls” Kahlil Gibran

Nova Wedding Photography

ROCK STAR

If the vision of a Grade I listed regency country house

matches your dream wedding day scenario, then Rockbeare Manor is the wow-factor wedding venue for you. Nestled

Grant Lampard Photography

z z u b l a d i br amongst 100 acres of pristine parkland just six miles from Exeter, the retreat provides couples with a jaw-dropping backdrop for an exclusive-use event of the most covetworthy kind. The captivating interiors, lush grounds and outstanding service at the venue has recently been recognised with the prestigious award of Wedding Venue of the Year at Devon Tourism Awards as well as being named Best Wedding Venue in Devon by Muddy Stilettos. Recognised for its focus on accessible and inclusive tourism as well

Creating custom-made weddings for up to 160 guests, the team works tirelessly to ensure the look and feel of your day is as unique as you are, allowing you to revel in your surrounds and celebrate in inimitable, award-winning style. rockbearemanor.co.uk

Melanie Barnfield Photography

MAKE A STATEMENT Unleash your inner creative with the services of Knots & Kisses, whose styling expertise promises to inject the wow factor into your day. “Weddings are all about love, of course, but they’re also an opportunity to make a bold style statement and beautifully express who you are,” says owner Nikki Sherriff. “If your Pinterest board is a crazy jumble of inspiration, I can help filter and refine your

Clare Kinchin Photography

ideas into one cohesive look, creating a wedding that’s stylish yet personal to you.” Nikki works closely with couples to help them achieve their vision and isn’t afraid to make even your wildest imaginations become magnificently material. She loves working with colour, especially since the latest trends move further toward bright and ultra-expressive wedding scenes full of tonality, texture and personal touches. Working with a host of topnotch suppliers, Nikki specialises in designing and producing high-impact weddings replete with visual drama via a series of bespoke elements, from prop hire and floristry to signage and installations. Whether you need her to help with initial idea generation via an ‘Inspiration Session’, wedding styling and set-up with ‘The On The Day Edit’ or opt for her comprehensive package with ‘The Style Experience’, Nikki will be on hand at any stage of the process to help create a day that looks and feels as unforgettable as it is ‘you’. knotsandkisses.co.uk

WEDDING SUPERSTITION Have you chosen your best man yet? Chances are you’ve asked a trusted friend or family member, but the tradition is thought to come from Germanic history when a man would often capture a bride from a neighbouring community and would be accompanied by his strongest, most loyal friend to help him fight resistance from her family!

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Aurelia Allen Photography

excellence continues to impress couples and judging panels alike.

And Your Story Photography

I Do Film and Photos

as sustainability and customer service, Rockbeare’s dedication to

www.uptonbarn.com

THE 2021 WEDDING INDUSTRY AWARDS: NATIONAL WINNER

IMAGES BY KAMILA NOWAK PHOTOGRAPHY

IMAGE BY JOSHUA GOODING PHOTOGRAPHY

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COURTLY LOVE Imagine an award-winning estate in the rolling Devon countryside as the romantic backdrop to your big day. Nestled on the border of Exmoor National Park, Huntsham Court presents an utterly sublime location in which to wed. The private hire venue accommodates up to 100 guests within 42 luxury, stylish bedrooms, allowing you to fully relax whilst making the most of precious time with loved ones. Huntsham Court, with over 12 years experience, has hosted intimate groups of guests all the way up to gatherings of 150. With exclusive use for all hiring parties, you and your people get to enjoy the venue to the fullest, taking in all of the beautiful reception rooms including the warm and inviting Yellow room, the Diamond Room, Library, bar, snug and panelled Great Hall. Each room is elegantly styled, with its own unique charm, designed to feel lavish and yet homely. Whatever style of wedding you envision, the venue can make it a soul-stirring reality. With flexibility and freedom at its heart, be ready to let your creativity flow! With plenty of space both indoor and out, you have options to stage an outdoor ceremony under the elegant dovecot in the Victorian gardens or on the top lawn with breathtaking views across the countryside. During the summer, why not host a wedding in the Hidden Garden with its wildflower borders and boho tipi? If your heart is set on an indoor ceremony, one of the stunning stately rooms, such as the Great Hall, is the perfect place to say ‘I do’. There is even the option to wed at a local church, such as All Saints Church on the driveway, before relocating to the house to celebrate in style and comfort. Specialising in weekend and extended stay events, guests can indulge in fun activities such as archery, laser clay, garden games, massage and yoga on-site; or explore further afield with a spot of sailing, riding, hiking, skydiving or fishing. Huntsham Court’s ethos of flexibility allows couples to select their own suppliers. With no packages for catering, you have the freedom to create menus and dining that suits your taste, whether that’s barbecues in the garden, food van vendors for the evening or Michelin star style dining during the wedding breakfast. The friendly and knowledgeable team members are on hand to help with any wedding planning query. From formal and fancy to casual and cosy, Huntsham Court is a venue designed to accommodate your wedding and event dreams.

Photography: Rockrose Photography, Tori Hancock, Ellie Gillard, Paige Grace Photography

huntshamcourt.co.uk

WORDS OF LOVE “If you love ‘em in the morning with their eyes full of crust; if you love ‘em at night with their hair full of rollers, chances are, you’re in love” Miles Davis

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! e at d e Save th t n e v E n e p O n r a B d el m Harefi p 8 3 4 2 0 2 y r a u r b e 17th F

We provide a blank canvas for your own ideas, and extended hire means you can relax and enjoy the experience of a lifetime. ‘Fabulous ‘All Inclusive’ deal now available for 2024.’ 11

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Louise May Photography

RELAXED ROMANCE

If the words rustic, romantic and relaxed evoke your picture-perfect wedding, then Hawke Barn is the beautiful (pet-friendly) venue for you. The 16th century former threshing barn sits in the centre of Devon’s picturesque countryside near Stoodleigh and is surrounded by a scenic 250-acre site comprising an organic working farm, hills, woodland and lake. Situated a mere 10-minute drive from Tiverton Parkway (and two hours from London), Hawke Barn is both conveniently located while also retaining an away-from-it-all feel. Expect original features throughout the main barn and buildings courtesy of 16th century stonework, flagstone floors, exposed oak beams and a high open-vaulted ceiling. Meanwhile, natural light floods through the full-height windows to accentuate the natural, blank canvas backdrop that allows couples to create their own unique style to suit. Inclusive and exclusive-use with a strong focus on sustainability, couples can tailor-make an event to match their vision and requirements, whether it’s an intimate or grand-scale celebration. The array of spaces both inside and out can be utilised for ceremonies, receptions and evening parties, while the barn’s on-site accommodation caters for 19 guests – with additional space to stay provided by camping and bell tent glamping. Tie the knot by the lake or on the lawn before hosting a drinks reception on the south-facing courtyard and roaming the estate, where you can have photos taken with the resident horses and teddy bear sheep. Spend your first night as newlyweds in the West Wing and wake to enjoy breakfast or a barbecue with guests before exploring the area’s coastline, countryside and nearby attractions. Pick from a two, three or seven-night package (with special off-season rates) or take advantage of the new one-day Dawn to Dusk package for 40 day guests and an additional 40 evening guests. With flexibility being the keynote, the packages range from basic hire and catering through to a comprehensive package including styling. What’s more, you’ll also have the services of a dedicated wedding coordinator on hand, meaning you can look forward to a seamless and wow-worthy wedding amongst the romantic rolling hills of Devon. hawkebarnvenue.co.uk

Yeti Photography

SO INN LOVE! Open fires, low ceilings and period features combine with a beguiling ambience at The Lamb Inn. Situated among the Tudor cobbles in the scenic village of Sandford, the 16th century former coaching house is a charm-filled space to say “I do” and celebrate an elopement or intimate wedding with your nearest and dearest. Offering ceremonies and receptions for up to 40 guests, couples can exchange their vows before festivities and feasting on a bespoke wedding breakfast created for you using the finest local produce. Up to 80 guests can party the night away before you spend your first night as newlyweds in the inn’s boutique accommodation. Every event is tailored to suit your requirements, whether you wish to privately exchange your vows in the Tap Room ahead of a romantic dinner for two and escaping to the top of the garden honeymoon suite – or dream of a laidback gathering of your favourite few for a fun and frivolous day. Packages include a host of benefits such as a wedding coordinator, room hire, a one-night B&B stay, exclusive daytime use of the Courtyard and Sun Deck, and welcome, table and toast drinks (with a plethora of additional extras also available). The Lamb Inn is both an affordable and wonderful choice for an idyllic country village wedding. lambinnsandford.co.uk

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ART AND SOUL If you’re seeking fine art wedding photography with a creative edge, prepare to be enchanted by the imagery of Jennifer Jane Photography. “My wedding photography combines timeless elegance with artful storytelling,” says the Devon based photographer. “I create images that are imbued with light and full of romance. Capturing your day in a natural and authentic style to tell your story with beautiful images full of exquisite details, romantic portraits, and unforgettable moments.” Jennifer seeks to tell your story in an evocative and emotional way, revealing your love through a set of soft and romantic images using natural light and created from each couple’s unique connection. Blending reportage with editorial storytelling, the result is “effortlessly romantic, with a timeless fine art feel”. “When I photograph a wedding, I completely immerse myself in the day, letting all the beauty, love and laughter envelope me as I capture all the magic as it unfolds before my eyes,” she enthuses. Shooting a limited number of weddings every year, Jennifer ensures every couple receives a dedicated service and offers a range of wedding collections that include a pre-wedding consultation, all day coverage, online gallery, keepsake box with 500 edited images on a USB and 10 fine art prints to start your beautiful and bespoke wedding album. jenniferjanephotography.co.uk

A RURAL LOVE STORY Whatever stage of the planning process you currently find yourself in, make a date in your diary for Harefield Barn’s annual Winter Showcase Event on Saturday 17th February (3pm-8pm), where a world of inspiration awaits. Situated in the picturesque heart of Devon, just minutes from Exeter but far enough removed to feel a palpable sense of escape, Harefield Barn presents a scenic rural locale in which to celebrate your love. With flexibility being the keynote of the venue’s ethos, you can host a civil ceremony and reception tailored entirely to your vision amongst the myriad indoor and outdoor spaces of this captivating country venue. The showcase presents the perfect opportunity to roam the venue while ticking off various items from your checklist and sourcing inspiration and advice from an array of handpicked suppliers. Enjoy live music from Conscious Club, a pyrotechnic display from Sonic Fireworks and a complimentary glass of bubbly alongside mouth-watering nibbles. Meet the dedicated events team and ask any burning questions you might have before finding your favourite tipple in The Saw Pit Bar, tucking into freshly cooked food from Harry’s Kitchen and toasting marshmallows on the firepit. Gina Bentley Photography

As you fall in love with the beautiful venue, perhaps you’ll take advantage of the all-inclusive

Amy Sampson Photography

Memories & Milestones Photography

offer for any available dates in 2024. It includes exclusive use of Harefield Barn and its grounds on the day of your wedding (with access to the barn the day before to decorate and prepare), canapés, a two or three-course wedding breakfast, plus evening food and four drinks per adult for £9,750 (inclusive of VAT). Bringing together a host of elements, it allows couples to create a money-saving day – minus much of the planning fuss – in a dream-worthy Devon setting. harefieldbarn.co.uk

WORDS OF LOVE “Love is not blind. It has perfect vision. It makes it possible for us to see as we have never seen before” Leo Buscaglia

z z u b l a d i br 500 DAYS OF LOVE Capturing weddings and producing stunning albums as timeless as they are unique, Laura of Freeformimages Photography is celebrating her 500th wedding with a not-to-be-missed offer. Giving couples a whopping £500 off their photography when booking a full-day package before Valentine’s Day, simply get in touch with her and quote WED500 when booking via the website (terms and conditions apply, subject to availability and must be booked between now and 14th February 2024). Recently named “Wedding Photographer of the year” in the South West 23/24 Prestige Awards, Laura lives in North Devon with her family, and feels privileged to be part of such a momentous day. “I love the authenticity and unique elements to weddings that each couple brings. The way love is shown for one another, those beautiful moments, the tears, that laughter...let me capture your day, your way!” she enthuses. “Your photography should capture the very essence of you and your relationship, encapsulating these memories to be treasured and enjoyed for years to come.” Evoking a natural, contemporary and relaxed storytelling style, Laura will unobtrusively interact with you and your guests and capture the emotion and character of your wedding. Travelling throughout the South West and beyond – and shooting to exceed your expectations – Laura offers a range of options for a tailor-made service, from engagement & pre wedding shoots to extensive packages featuring everything from full-day coverage, prints of your day, a USB flash drive with high resolution images presented in a beautiful, handmade box and access to a shareable online gallery with print store to stunning luxury albums that you can design together. freeformimages.co.uk

A DAZZLING DAY OUT Dedicated to bringing quality wedding services together under one roof to inspire couples in the throes of wedding planning, Art of Weddings has a programme of must-visit events coming up over the winter months. The Dartmouth Hotel is the backdrop to their wedding showcase on Sunday 21st January, while Winslade Manor in Exeter will be hosting a feast of wedding inspiration on Sunday 18th February. A delight for the senses, attendees can look forward to a stirring soundtrack from live performers and catering alongside bridal gowns, photography, wedding cakes, floristry and fabulous exhibitors galore. Admission is free and runs from 11am until 3pm each day. You’ll also be able to get your hands on a free copy of Wed Magazine! Head to the website to register. artofweddings.co.uk

WORDS OF LOVE “Love is that condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own” Robert A. Heinlein

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CREATING UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES e: INFO@DEERFARMTIPIWEDDINGS.CO.UK WWW.DEERFARMTIPIWEDDINGS.CO.UK

PETITE & BEAUTIFUL WEDDINGS sarah@coombetrenchard.co.uk www.coombetrenchard.co.uk

style | FASHION | THE BRIGHT STUFF

the bright stuff Our pick of the most gorgeous details for a colourful wedding day compiled by Rebecca Matthews

1. Ticking all the trend boxes with its one-shoulder silhouette, side split and hot pink hue, your bridesmaids will be hot to trot in this 3.

satin number by Rewritten. wearerewritten.com 2. Made in hot pink Italian suede, these heels by Emmy London make a seriously stylish choice for a summer wedding. emmylondon.com 3. This exquisite ring by Emily Nixon fuses her

signature organic seaworn texture with captivating sapphires. emilynixon.com 4. This super colourful bag by Sophia Webster is the ultimate accessory for the party of your life. sophiawebster.com

5. This kaleidoscopic gemstone pendant by Justin Duance

will add a glorious pop of colour to your bridal ensemble. justind.co.uk 6. This beautiful bouquet by Emma Hewlett is bursting with brilliant British blooms. emmahewlett.co.uk 7. This colourful invitation by Emmy Designs sets the fun-filled mood for a spring or summer wedding. emmydesigns.co.uk Tara Statton

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7. www.wedmagazine.co.uk

feature | STYLING | WINTER SYMPHONY

winter symp 18 Devon

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WINTER SYMPHONY

Frosty whites, lustrous silvers and deep blues create a crisp and sophisticated colour scheme for an elegant winter wedding at Rockbeare Manor photography Danielle Veitch styling & coordination Kept Weddings with Laura

phony 19

feature | STYLING | WINTER SYMPHONY

A winter wedding can be more than a match for the easy beauty of a balmy summer’s day. Frost-flecked landscapes, dark brooding skies and wind-whipped waves offer endless romance and drama, while hosting an off-season celebration can also set the style factor to a new level of wow-worthy. Think luxe accents, rich tones and eye-catching elements for a look layered with depth, decadence and ambience. Here, Rockbeare Manor provides the stunning backdrop for a wedding styled in the new monochrome: navy and white. Classic, contrasting, fresh and opulent, the colour scheme allows a flexible way for couples to adopt the look to individual effect. An open fire, twinkling chandeliers, period features and glorious views of the surrounding countryside all contribute to the magical atmosphere of this soulstirring setting. “The shoot was inspired by an iconic luxury watch brand, combining masculinity and femininity with frosty whites, deep blues and lustrous silvers,” explains Laura Dalton from Kept Weddings, who styled and coordinated the shoot. “Keeping the aesthetic crisp like a winter’s day, couples can visualise why winter should not be overlooked as a season for their wedding.” From the modern design of the stationery to the elegant table settings, the scene is understated yet lavish. Clear glassware, a scattering of crystals and candles complement mini vases adorned with white blooms for a clean tablescape with a petal-soft edge, contrasting with the midnight blue tablecloth. The statement cake sits atop a flower-filled case, evoking a sense of the fairytale, which is exaggerated by sparkly, pearl-studded detailing and blousy snow-white blooms: the feature that stitches every vignette beautifully together. Then there’s the bride. Clutching an all-white bouquet, she’s a vision of modern chic in an off-the-shoulder A-line gown and satin shoes, the overskirt glinting in the low winter sun alongside her floral crown and free-flowing curls. In the evening, she ups the glamour with a sleek ponytail, floral headpiece and seductive backless satin sweetheart frock complete with side slit, giant back bow and the final flourish: a classic berry-red pout.

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WINTER SYMPHONY

feature | STYLING | WINTER SYMPHONY

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WINTER SYMPHONY

Concept, styling & coordination

Kept Weddings with Laura keptweddingsco.uk

Photography & wedding day content creation

Danielle Veitch danielleveitch.com Videography

Flow Motion Studios flowmotionstudios.co.uk Venue

Rockbeare Manor

rockbearemanor.co.uk Hair

Cindy Beddard Bridal Hair cindybeddardbridalhair.co.uk Make-up

Sophie White

sophiewhitemua.co.uk Dresses

Nicola Anne

nicolaanne.com Hair accessories & earrings

Claire Austin England claireaustinengland.com Robe & veil

Lady in Bianca

instagram.com/ladyinbianca_ Shoes

Becci’s Bridal Designs beccisbridaldesigns.com Rings

BWR London

bwr-london.co.uk Cake

Cake Design by Holly Miller cakedesignbyhollymiller.com Flowers

Bud Floral Design budfloraldesign.uk Linen & décor

Unique Designs by Tina uniquedesignsbytina.com Stationery

Kept Weddings with Laura keptweddingsco.uk Car

Devon Classic Wedding Cars devonclassicweddingcars.co.uk Ribbon

Designaribbon

designaribbon.co.uk Model

Charlotte Moore

instagram.com/charlotteamymoore

feature | STYLING | APRICOT CRUSH

apricot crush

Dreamy shades of apricot, peach and cream create a joy-filled scene at Brickhouse Vineyard photography Mimosa Photography styling & coordination Knots & Kisses

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APRICOT CRUSH

feature | STYLING| APRICOT CRUSH

Apricot continues to beguile designers and couples alike with its warmth, energy and creativity. Elevating any space with its zesty tone and vibrant look, the versatile shade is easy to splice into both the main stylistic features and minutiae, adding eye-catching depth and a joyous mood for a wedding scene as contemporary as it is feel-good. “The colour inspired the base of the Apricot Crush shoot, but we layered this up with a palette of peaches and creams,” explains Nikki Sheriff from Knots & Kisses, who styled and coordinated this styled shoot at Brickhouse Vineyard. “We then added some fun modern touches with a shot of petrol blue and ontrend bubble candlesticks, modern shaped vases and structured modernist floral arrangements.” Nestled in the South Devon Hills, Brickhouse Vineyard provided the perfect backdrop while showcasing their new horsebox bar and pizza van. “We wanted to keep the look for the shoot dreamy and floaty, which was a great juxtaposition with the modern rustic feel of the gorgeous roundhouse and barn, while some beautiful fabrics created a softer feel,” says Nikki. The overarching look was achieved through the details. Stationery in soft peachy hues and striking geometric designs, blousy white and pale melon blooms and the elegant tiered cake adorned with a few single stems set the stunning scene. Tablescapes layered with fabrics and dotted with an assortment of seductive shaped votives and vases merge baby pinks, cantaloupe orange and pure apricot with a contrasting shot of cobalt, the gold flatware lending a gorgeously luxe finish. Meanwhile, the couple’s minimalist outfits smack of modern chic style. The groom’s sand-coloured suit is accessorised with a pale peach tie and pocket square, while the bride teams her spaghetti strap slip with pearl jewellery, open-toe heels and a delicate bouquet followed by a glamorous satin gown with back bow, hot apricot lips and old-school Hollywood waves.

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APRICOT CRUSH

feature | STYLING| APRICOT CRUSH

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feature | STYLING| A FINE ROMANCE

Styling, design & coordination

Knots & Kisses

knotsandkisses.co.uk Venue

Brickhouse Vineyard brickhousevineyard.co.uk

Photography

Mimosa Photography mimosaphotography.uk Videography

Capture Weddings captureweddings.co.uk Flowers

Poppys Flower Studio poppysflowerstudio.co.uk Cake

Daisy Molly & Me daisymollyandme.com Hair

Natalie Nichols Bridal natalienichols-bridal.com Make-up

Makeup by Zoe L makeupbyzoel.co.uk Dresses

Solunah Bride solunahbride.com

Hair accessories & earrings

The Lucky Sixpence theluckysixpence.co.uk Rings & necklaces

Erin Cox Jewellery erincox.co.uk Suit

Zebel

zebel.co.uk Stationery

Knots & Kisses

knotsandkisses.co.uk Lounge furniture & cake table

Virginas Vintage Hire virginiasvintagehire.co.uk Tablecloths

88 Events

88events.com Napkins & runners

The Knotted Napkin Co. theknottednapkinco.com

Candlesticks, bowls, vases & draping

Knots & Kisses

knotsandkisses.co.uk Charger plates & plinths

Glas Events

glasevents.com Cutlery, glassware & cylinder vases

Amor Décor

amordecorevents.co.uk Models

Hattie & Kesh, Mustard Models bigmustard.co.uk

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PIROUET T E Set in the historic West Quarter, Pirouette has it’s home in the famous House that Moved. We have been dressing Brides for over 30 years with fabulous designer labels and offer a private appointment and bespoke alteration service. ROMANTIC ELOPEMENT FOR THE TWO OF YOU, OR INVITE UP TO 150 GUESTS.

01392 432643

www.harestonwedding.co.uk

www.pirouettethecollection.com

The House That Moved 24 West Street, Exeter, Devon EX1 1BA pirouettethecollection@gmail.com PirouetteBridal

Photography by Venetia Norrington, Clare Kinchin & Alexa Poppe

An Exclusive Edwardian Country House Estate Unlike Any Other

Specialising in creating beautiful bespoke wedding flowers for brides and venues across the South West. Floristry Design Design & &Tree Tree Hire Hire Floristry Floristry Design Treeshines Hire through Our passion passion for for floristry design&really really shines through in in Our floristry design Floristry Design & Tree Hire the work which we create. Nothing makes us happier then the work which we create. Nothing makes us happier then Our passion for floristry designyour really shines through in achieving that wow wow factor when when guests enter the room. room. achieving that factor guests enter the Our passion for floristry designyour really shines through in the work which we create. Nothing makes us happier then the work which we create. Nothing makes us happier then achieving that668045 wow factorINFO@FUSSPOTS.CO.UK when your guests enter the room. 07903 07903 www.emmahewlett.co.uk achieving that 668045 wow factorINFO@FUSSPOTS.CO.UK when your guests enter the room. WWW.FUSSPOTS.CO.UK 07766 237975 WWW.FUSSPOTS.CO.UK coombetrenchard.co.uk • sarah@coombetrenchard.co.uk • 01566 783179 • Coombe Trenchard, West Devon EX20 4PW 07903 668045 INFO@FUSSPOTS.CO.UK 31 07903 668045 INFO@FUSSPOTS.CO.UK WWW.FUSSPOTS.CO.UK WWW.FUSSPOTS.CO.UK

style | wed’s WISH LIST

wed’s

wish list

From dreamy dresses to seriously chic shoes, here’s our pick of the latest bridal must-haves words Hannah May, Lucy Lawrence & Rebecca Matthews

DIVINE DESIGNS Located in the heart of Plymouth, The Ivory Lounge is a sumptuous boutique where snug furnishings and light-catching chandeliers meet rails of designer bridal gowns. Priding itself on its warm welcome and customer service, a shopping trip to the boutique is an experience to remember. The rails are awash with gorgeous choice for brides seeking contemporary designer fashions through to timelessly elegant and relaxed romantic designs. Celebrated designer Vera Wang Bride is a favourite; the curated collection offers clean lines and bold ballgowns through to romantic silhouettes and the dreamiest lace, tulle and beaded detailing at an affordable price. Another firm favourite with brides, Randy Fenoli’s gowns are the stuff of dreams for brides who love a bit of glamour. The renowned designer and Say Yes to the Dress host creates showstopping gowns, blending seductive silhouettes, gorgeous fabrics and exquisite embellishment. The new collection from British bridal brand Ellis Bridals will be arriving at the rails over the coming months. Beloved by brides for their classically romantic gowns with a contemporary twist, the new collection promises everything from sleek, minimalist styles and dreamy A-lines cloaked in soft lace to off-the-shoulder cuts crafted in luxurious fabrics. Hot on its heels, the new collection from Kelsey Rose offers a swoon-worthy selection of looks, from cool-girl cuts to whimsical styles ideal for a beachside or countryside celebration. A collection of highly discounted past season gowns are also available, perfect for brides seeking a bargain. And, for those looking for perfectly coordinated bridal shoes, the new collection from Rainbow Club will soon be arriving at the boutique. Whether you choose ivory satin stilettos, slingbacks dotted with diamantés or dance floor-ready trainers, these seriously chic - and incredibly comfortable - shoes are the must-have finishing touch for your head-turning gown. theivorylounge.co.uk

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wed’s WISH LIST

SPRING AWAKENING A flurry of gowns from the Spring 2024 collections are landing at Exeter’s Pirouette – and the romantic confections are full of the promise of light-filled celebrations and balmy, loved-up evenings. Elka by Sottero & Midgley is a boho-chic dream with its comfortable mermaid silhouette, floral lace and sheer train, while Ladonna by Maggie Sottero is pure romance thanks to its 3D florals, deep V-neckline and seductive open back. Brides seeking a whimsical cottagecore vibe will love Sue by Rebecca Ingram – the airy chiffon, illusion corset and floral lace details are perfect for a summer wedding in a flower-filled garden or rolling Devon meadow. Then there’s Iliana by Rebecca Ingram: a simple and seriously stylish fit-and-flare gown with a keyhole bodice and plunging back. Nestled in Exeter’s historic West Quarter, Pirouette’s 15th century Merchants House is as packed with dresses as it is with charm. As well as its award-winning bridal designers, you’ll find a hand-picked collection of veils and accessories. Make an appointment for a seriously special shopping experience. pirouettethecollection.com

SOLE MATES Comprising fashion-forward silhouettes, timeless profiles and

glamour in abundance, the latest collection by Rainbow Club - R - is their most luxe yet. A marriage of style and comfort, the range of shoes taps into the latest bridal trends, boasting statement diamanté detailing, lustrous satin finishes and sparkling accents that deliver high glamour without the high price tag. From slinky stilettos to sky-high platforms, the designs are striking, versatile - and an oh-so chic finish to your bridal ensemble. rainbowclub.co.uk

A specialist in luxury embroidered wedding veils, Rebecca Anne Designs’ latest capsule collection of veils showcases her signature artistic style to perfection. “Featuring my favourite florals and new script fonts, the latest pieces illustrate to brides how their own veil could look,” says Rebecca.

Kamila Nowak Photography

VEILED TALE

The collection features ethereal and romantic veils showcasing how each piece is handcrafted to your requirements, adding to your picture-perfect bridal ensemble. Embroidering flowers and foliage onto a veil means you can incorporate a handsketched bloom – be it from your bridal bouquet, a single blossom or a meadow of wildflowers – while Rebecca’s script veils allow you to include anything from initials to a verse of poetry, so your veil is perfectly ‘you’. “Your veil should be an extension of your personality, your style and your story that elevates and celebrates you and your dress,” she says. rebeccaannedesigns.co.uk

style | DRESSES | MODERN LOVE

MOD ERN LOVE

Vera Wang Bride, The Ivory Lounge

Explore the latest trends in bridal wear for a coolly contemporary wedding dress words Hannah May

Welcome to the season of bridal wear. With fashion weeks, new collection reveals, trunk shows and freshfrom-the-runway designs hotfooting their way to a boutique near you, prepare to be dazzled by the latest dresses. You might be in the market for a timeless piece of couture, minimalist gown or all-eyes-on-you confection of contemporary art. Whatever your personal style preference, body type, budget and vision, you’re bound to find something both bang on-trend and individually suited in this edit of covetworthy gowns. Previewing the designer collections recently spied in fashion houses and catwalks across the globe, we’ve whittled the plethora down to 10 of the current trends, complete with a mini lookbook for each to help inspire you on your dressbuying journey…

Architectural elements For a dose of high drama, gowns with architectural or artistic flair are the fashionable way forward. Anything with an avant-garde edge hits the sartorial spot and ranges from structural designs to statement features. Think origami folds, elaborate layering, XXL back bows, flared cuts, bold silhouettes, sculpted lines and elaborate puff sleeves. The trend also filters into tailoring via sharp-cut bridal suits, along with softer, more laidback versions via jumpsuits, playsuits and pantsuits with a couture finish.

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MODERN LOVE

Tullecore The lust for tulle, or ‘tullecore’, continues apace. The light-asair fabric remains a mainstay in many design aspects of the dress and accessories, from sheer capes and delicate tulle bodices to voluminous tiered skirts and detailed overlays. Part of its allure is its versatility. Go for head-to-toe tulle for full-on fairytale whimsy or select a piece or two to channel your inner romantic. Sheer, layered, billowing or wrapped, the effortlessly chic fabric is going nowhere fast.

Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal

Rebecca Ingram, Pirouette

Randy Fenoli, The Ivory Lounge

Rebecca Ingram, Pirouette

Drapery Flowing, formless fashions are all the rage on the runways. Perfect for free-spirited or minimalist brides seeking something relaxed yet utterly chic, designers continue to experiment with the cut and fall of fabric to create dynamic, dance-worthy dresses. Cowl backs and necks, off-theshoulder sleeves, bias-cut skirts, flutter sleeves, streamers and waterfall skirts all appear as part of the aesthetic, with trains and veils assuming similar sweeping Rebecca Ingram, Pirouette

Randy Fenoli, The Ivory Lounge

Sleek and fitted

styles.

Rebecca Ingram, Pirouette

Any outfit that showcases the female hourglass form is undisputedly de rigueur. Fit-and-flare, mermaids, 90s-inspired silhouettes (especially luxe and stretchy fabrics) and body-con elements all achieve the look. Brides with a boho spirit, penchant for Hollywood glam or classic taste will fall for the feminine offerings, whether lace fishtails, satin sweethearts or minimal shifts. You can also adopt and customise the look for your comfort and body shape; for example, by choosing a fitted bodice with a flattering A-line or ballgown skirt, or by pairing a clean line column skirt with a silk cami, kimono or wrap bodice.

Ellis Bridals, The Ivory Lounge

style | DRESSES | MODERN LOVE Made With Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Volume accents Moving away from all-out maximalism in favour of a statement feature or two, volume remains stylishly en vogue, but in a more singular way. Puff sleeves, ruffles, ruched sleeves, tiered and streamer skirts all smack of designers’ 80s influences, and have been tastefully reimagined with a dose of modern high fashion. The best way of adding volume is through the current convertible dress/transformational wear movement, allowing brides to don multiple looks in one. For bridal magnificence, think tulle overskirts, detachable trains, bulbous veiling, 3D or oversized florals, statement capes, customised veils and diaphanous sleeves.

Jenny Yoo, Jenny Yoo, St Ives Bridal Boutique St Ives Bridal Boutique

LWD The Little White Dress looks set to the steal the spotlight for seasons to come. Puff balls, mini (and micro-mini) dresses, flapper styles and tea dresses all fall into the must-wear category, whether you fancy wearing one for your rehearsal dinner, ceremony (with or without a detachable overskirt) or evening reception. Fun, playful, sexy – and available in an Ellis Bridals, The Ivory Lounge

array of styles – the LWD epitomises modern bridal design.

Vera Wang Bride, The Ivory Lounge

Florals are a bridal mainstay for their unrivalled beauty and versatility. Whatever your style personality or preference, there’s a floral design to suit, from vintage floral lace and bohemian blossom motifs to classic tulip skirts

Olivia Rose Bridal, Kate Walker Bridal

Fresh florals

Rebecca Ingram, Pirouette

and contemporary ballgowns adorned with miniature 3D buds or bright floral prints. You’ll find floral detailing such as appliqués, lace, embroideries (created using hand-drawn designs) and brocade everywhere from floral bodices and backs to underskirts and veils. Anything oversized or textured is on-trend, including giant corsages and a smattering of petals, along with colourful, canvas-like prints.

Kate Walker, Kate Walker Bridal

Maggie Sottero, Pirouette

Olivia Rose Bridal, Kate Walker Bridal

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style | DRESSES | MODERN LOVE Vera Wang Bride, The Ivory Lounge

Maggie Sottero, Pirouette

Slits For a dose of high glamour, nothing spells pure seduction like a skirt slit. Daringly high side or centre slits are today’s top choice, but knee or thighhigh slits still evoke a sense of screen siren allure. Allowing for greater movement, the leg-flashing style also showcases a pair of killer heels or a designer underskirt. In addition, they can be worn within a variety of silhouettes, from chic wrap dresses and Mikado ballgowns to sleek columns and sweeping silk skirts.

Maggie Sottero, Pirouette

Ellis Bridals, The Ivory Lounge

New necklines Never underestimate the impact of your neckline. Though deep plunging and high mock necks are going nowhere, there’s some newly emerging necklines that are giving the styles a serious run for their money. These include halters, square-cut, corsets (with exposed boning and embellishment) and, one of the most-wanted: asymmetric. Combine with an open back for extra pizzazz, and experiment with sleeves too, such as off-the-shoulder, cap and puff.

Vera Wang Bride, The Ivory Lounge

Jenny Yoo, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Maggie Sottero, Pirouette

Vera Wang Bride, The Ivory Lounge

Kelsey Rose, The Ivory Lounge

Shimmer and shine If there’s one trend that’s inimitably ‘now’ then this is it: sparkle. Emerging from the disco aesthetic but filtering into a range of looks from vintage to Hollywood glam, the look encompasses everything from mirror embellishments to sequin gowns and jewel encrusted accessories. Think art decoinspired beadwork – on the dress and/or veil (with chandelier sleeves for extra emphasis), intricate crystal work and metallic embroideries. Alternatively, nod to the trend with a smattering of classic pearls.

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Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal

& For Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

r i o d u o b wed’s

regular | wed's BOUDOIR

beauty junki r fo s ct u od pr p to d an ds en tr Tips,

e brides

words Lucy Lawrence & Rebecca Matthews

wedding-worthy skin A new skincare brand has launched – and it’s quite simply a must-have for brides-to-be. Armed with a passion to elevate brides’ natural beauty to new heights with the help of the right skincare routine, highly experienced make-up artist Jessica Rose has created a collection of skin-loving potions especially for brides. Using her professional expertise and personal experience of sensitive skin, Jessica has developed a simple, four-step routine to create that lusted-after smooth, glowy base for your bridal make-up. Infused with rose for its calming, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, the cruelty-free and vegan range comprises a creamy and soothing Rose Cleanser, a balancing and brightening Rose Toner, a radiance-boosting Skin Polish and a gorgeously nourishing Rose Moisturiser. A blissful ritual to take into married life, each luxurious product has been specially formulated to leave your skin balanced, beautiful and at its most radiant for your big day. jessicaroseskincare.co.uk

eye need it We don’t know what we love most about the new Smokey Eye Duo Kajal from Iconic London – the lusciously creamy formula, the versatility of its dual-ended kajal or its sheer staying power. Available in seven easy-to-blend shades, the kajal comes with both a chunky shadow-liner and a more precise liner to create party-perfect eyes in a flash. iconiclondoninc.com

face facts New skincare brand Skin Bureaux has impressive credentials. Formulated by leading skin expert doctors to tackle inflammaging - inflammation which accelerates ageing - the revolutionary products utilise established and high performing ingredients alongside the powerhouse combo of sustainably sourced CBD and CBG. The brilliantly dynamic duo bring an abundance of benefits in reducing the signs of inflammaging to reverse ageing while boosting the overall health of the skin. We love the Super Defence Vitamin C Serum – providing daily protection against environmental stress like pollution, blue light and UV exposure, the innovative formula calms, hydrates and boosts the radiance of the skin while combating the signs of ageing. skinbureaux.com

the white stuff Whether you’re a coffee addict or need to remove the telltale signs of a few too many glasses of merlot, a home teeth-whitening kit is a budget-friendly solution to ensure whiter teeth for W-day. Working closely with leading dentists, the award-winning products from Billion Dollar Smile combine their revolutionary oxidising whitener PAP and deep purple pigments to make your teeth whiter while concealing any hints of yellow. With a range comprising a complete whitening kit, a handy top-up kit, fuss-free whitening strips, on-the-go whitening pens and an everyday whitening toothpaste, the vegan-friendly, non-peroxide formulas have a convenient and smile-boosting solution for everyone, allowing you to flash your pearly whites with confidence come the big day. billiondollarsmile.com

safety first Packed with skin-loving goodness, Saltee’s luxury suncare range is the heavenly way to 2. protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. The City Serum works perfectly as a base under make-up, while the Face Daily Protection Formula is a skin and suncare hybrid that offers UVA, UVB and infrared radiation protection as well as being a lightweight daily moisturiser. And we love the velvety Sea & Sun Lotion SPF30, which smells like your favourite holiday. Quite simply, a honeymoon must-have! saltee.co.uk

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Daisy Floral Design, Weddings and Events

www.thevelvetdaisy.co.uk helen@thevelvetdaisy.co.uk 07790692221 41

feature | BRIDESMAIDS | THE BRIDESMAID GUIDE

THE

BRIDESMAID GUIDE From who to choose to how to propose and W-day duties, your journey to bridesmaid bliss begins here words Hannah May

Olivia Rossi

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THE BRIDESMAID GUIDE

As far as W-day decisions go, this can be one of the trickiest. You may have known years ago who your trusted bridal party members will be; or perhaps you’re agonising over who to pop the question to. Either way, the matter of who – and how – to choose as your ’maids remains one of the biggest bridal quandaries of all. Even if you feel self-assured in your choosing, you’ll no doubt have at least a few nagging doubts. Will I inadvertently cause offence to someone? What if they say no? Tackling the various potential – and very real – issues head-on will pay dividends in your wedding planning and pre-wedded wellbeing – and should help reinforce all the cherished relationships in your life. If you’re deliriously engaged to ‘the one’ but in the throes of deliberating popping the question to your ‘other ones’, then allow us to come to your rescue with our mini bridesmaid guide, which delves into everything from who to choose to what role they should play and how to pop the question.

Who? Only you can answer this question. And it can be fraught with complication. In an ideal world, it would simply be a case of selecting your most favourite and entrusted friends, but in reality – there can be more to it than that. Before you make any knee-jerk decisions that can prove difficult to backtrack on, there are a series of considerations to ponder before whittling down your list. First off, will your best friend be up to the task and keen to waltz down the aisle/plan your hen party/pay for the extra expenses associated with the role/have the extra time to help you prepare for the big day, as well on the day itself?

Katie Goff

Weddings can incur financial and time burdens on bridesmaids, from attending dress fittings and weekends away to chipping in or paying entirely for parties, outfits, shoes, accessories and accommodation. Will their job and financial situation free up the time and cash for this (unless you’re exclusively footing the bill)? Do they have children or other dependants and so might struggle to commit the required time, energy and money to their role as bridesmaid? Before formally asking, you could dedicate a conversation with them to tease out these concerns and establish an arrangement that you’ll both be content with. For example, she could bring her toddler as a flower girl to combine the role with on-the-day childcare issues or you could pay for the dresses and ensure that all hen celebrations are organised within participants’ individual budgets. By arming yourself with as much information as possible regarding your own input and expectations – as well as theirs – you’ll be able to negotiate and agree upon an action plan, and preserve the love, confidence and closeness of your friendship in the

Noah Werth

process. Family politics (for better or worse) do tend to play another part here. For example, does your spouse-to-be have any significant family members such as a sister or niece that they/you/their family would like included in the bridal group? This is when it becomes more of a joint decision and can feel as if your hand is being forced – especially if the in-laws or wider family have offered to pitch in with financial help. If you really don’t want to choose a particular person as your bridesmaid, then don’t. Whether you believe there will be a personality clash (group dynamics are another issue to chew over), lack of input or you simply don’t get along well, it’s best to voice your concerns from the outset rather than

Freeformimages Photography

spend the build-up to your wedding stressing out about said person, chasing them for their preferred dress shopping date or avoiding group scenarios with them that might cause conflict. An easy get-out clause might be to offer them another role, such as by tapping into their talent or passion, which is more likely to please the pair of you. Ideas include asking them to do a reading at the ceremony, speech

feature | BRIDESMAIDS | THE BRIDESMAID GUIDE

flower girl (so a sort-of bridesmaid, but slightly removed from the rest of the group), perform a song or be an usher, master of ceremony or hen party organiser. Alternatively, these roles can be performed by friends that might be uneasy in the spotlight or shying away from the pressure of being a bona fide bridesmaid. The best approach is to gauge (or ask) their interest, tell them what

“By arming yourself with as much information as possible regarding your own input and expectations, you’ll be able to negotiate and agree upon an action plan; and preserve the love, confidence and closeness of your friendship in the process”

you’d expect from them and find a suitable role within or outside of the bridal party. There’s no rule when it comes to picking your ’maids – including when it comes to gender. More brides are opting for ‘bridesmates’ with a mixture of bridesmen and bridesmaids, and are having a man/mate of honour instead of or as well as a traditional maid of honour. Remember: it’s your day. Have a hand-picked bridal party comprising a variety of ages and genders, or none at all; a lone flower girl, sole mate of honour or simply your multi-tasking mum walking you down the aisle, bearing the rings and making a heartfelt speech.

What? Traditionally, there’s a list of roles that the bride tribe is gathered for. The main duties tend to involve helping with planning – especially the hen do and venue set-up, along with on-theday coordination, usually revolving around the bride’s needs. However, it all depends on your requirements and circumstances. For example, if you’re staging a micro wedding, you might want to ditch many of the formalities and opt for a couple of friends to get ready with and simply be on hand for any hitches or help needed throughout the day. Itinerary-wise, the bridesmaids’ general role is to shadow the bride, starting with the prewedding celebrations (engagement party/hen do), preparations (planning, dress shopping, wedding rehearsals) and the day itself, including getting ready, leading the aisle walk, making a group exit, standing in the receiving line and seating/hosting guests at the wedding breakfast. Ensuring guests are happy, the dance floor is packed and arranging a seamless send-off for the newlyweds might also form part of the bridesmaids’ wider duties. Post-wedding, bridesmaids are often tasked with everything from returning hired items to cleaning up the venue, organising the next day’s events, divvying out favours and bidding adieu to the remaining guests. Again, much of this is down to personal preference and individual ability, so discuss the details first, then delegate roles accordingly.

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The bridesmaid proposal Here’s the fun part: ‘proposing’ to your bridesmaids. You might want to simply ask them during conversation or a dinner out, or plan something with a greater sense of surprise and celebration. You don’t need an elaborate or expensive proposal (unless you want to), and the more authentic and meaningful the mode, the more memorable and appreciated it will be. Here are some ideas… A handwritten love note is a timeless way to pop the question. Whether you opt for a plain piece of paper or choose a professional design as part of your stationery suite, a few thoughtfully chosen words can have a high-impact effect. Take your ’maids-to-be out for a group shindig (cocktails, spa, wedding show), host an intimate dinner party at home or ask them all individually during your weekly coffee date or yoga session. Arrange a special evening hinting at what’s to come, such as a floral workshop or wine-tasting night, and come up with a creative way to propose by breaking open fortune cookies, balloons or a piñata. Write it in the sand, send a gift box or flowers, or present a customised bridesmaid robe complete with monograms and let them mull over the implied question. Plan a champagne picnic, get down on one knee with a piece of jewellery (even a ring!), bake a tray of iced cupcakes spelling out the question, fill a ‘bridesmaid’ tote with their favourite things, propose at the end of ‘your’ song at a karaoke bar or spontaneously ask when the perfect moment presents itself. Then celebrate and announce your ‘engagement’ – and get planning with gusto!

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Sunday Love Photo & Film

at the reception, walk with and attend to the

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feature | BRIDESMAIDS | BRIDE TRIBE GIFTS

bride tribe gifts Our round-up of some of the sweetest, stylish and most thoughtful proposal and gift ideas for your bridesmaids words Hannah May

Mim Howell

Studio Lowen Present your gal pals with something they can cherish on W-day and beyond with Studio Lowen’s range of gifts, which are guaranteed to prompt a resounding ‘yes’. Handmade in Cornwall by Lisa Stewart, whether you want to treat your bridesmaids to the finishing touches of their ensemble or offer an engagement keepsake, you’ll find something spectacular to suit amongst the range. Blending function with Lisa’s signature aesthetic, each item is lovingly crafted to serve a decorative and practical purpose, from her recycled leather clutch purses and jewellery pouches to her collection of earrings and original printed cards. Go glam with a gold clutch, evoke the beauty of nature with a botanical design or opt for an on-trend palette of soft pink, champagne, neutral tones or sea blues for a coastal wedding. Throw in a pair of metallic drop, sunrise hoop, seapool or painted floral earrings for a fabulous final flourish. studiolowen.com

Trevethan Gin Your bridesmaids-to-be will be thrilled to receive a bottle of gin, and craft distillery Trevethan’s range will pack the most delectable punch. Its original, multi-award-winning spirit promises to spoil the senses with its handcrafted family recipe that dates back to 1929. Combining citrus notes with a floral flavour and using botanicals from across the globe – including Cornwall – we especially love the silken oak and honey-infused gin with lifting notes of orange citrus softened with vanilla. The grapefruit and lychee gin is both sweet and zesty (and a taste sensation when served with tonic, fresh mint and a slice of grapefruit) – perfect for a summer’s engagement soirée. Add a miniature to a proposal box, send a full-sized bottle of their 1920s Classic Cornish Dry Gin with a handwritten note or toast your forthcoming nuptials with a cocktail party and pop the question as you sink a G&T with a memorable difference. trevethandistillery.com

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BRIDE TRIBE GIFTS

Wanderlust Life Devon-based Wanderlust Life is home to an assortment of jewellery to suit a variety of styles and budgets, which will be worn time and again. The signature Fine Cord Necklaces are made using the most loved semi-precious stones in a design to suit all. You might fall for the timeless beauty of the pearl necklace or something with a birthstone or symbolic meaning such as the rose quartz, rainbow moonstone, opal or sea glass chalcedony. What’s more, you can add extra personalisation with a madeto-order 14k gold fill, hand-stamped monogram tag. Alternatively – or as an addition to the necklace – the Engravable Insignia Disc Gold and Silk Bracelet is an eye-catching choice, with a disc that can be engraved with a motto, mini love note or symbol of your choosing. Order online or pay a visit to the Braunton shop and studio to peruse the trove of treasures. You might even take your girl tribe with you and pop the question by asking them to choose their favourite piece. wanderlustlife.co.uk

April & Bloom April & Bloom’s selection of hand-curated gifts combine covet-worthy contents with so-pretty presentation to help you pop the question with panache. Ensuring the personal touch with every order, Georgia April’s signature floral branded keepsake boxes are embellished with preserved posies, wrapped in luxury ribbons and bows, and contain an assortment of exquisite items. Pick a small gift box packed with half-size bottles of rosé, Marc de Champagne chocolates, artisan candles and exquisite soaps, or up the spoilsome factor with a large box containing bath soaks and body oils, prosecco, silk accessories and a mini handtied posy of dried flowers. Choose your own products or allow Georgia to weave her magic and create a bespoke box for you to gift with love. aprilandbloom.uk

Stackers Combining brilliantly practical products with a soft palette of colours from pebble grey to blush pink, Stackers’ bridesmaid collection is bursting with ideas to present and pop the question with. Pick from jewellery boxes, champagne bottle bags, jewellery stands, washbags and the very handy cosmetic and jewellery bag (ideal for a pre-hen weekend gift!) – and add wedding day essentials such as earrings, lip gloss, bracelets and perfume for a personalised proposal gift. Hand-stamped monograms seal the deal. stackers.com

Nola Grey Pamper your gal pals with Nola Grey’s gorgeous selection of robes and pyjamas, which are guaranteed to add extra style to a proposal with a palpably luxurious feel. 2. The perfect attire for the W-day preparations or hen weekend, the stunning robes and two or three-piece pyjama sets are handmade with love from the softest fabric and customised to ensure a glove-like fit. Feather trims up the glamour, while design features including elegant tie straps, pearl buttons and tiered tops add a voguish edge. nolagrey.co.uk

feature | BRIDESMAIDS | HOT FROCKS Maids to Measure

Sorella Vita

HOT FROCKS

Maids to Measure

From pretty pinks to shoulder-baring silhouettes, here’s our favourite trends for your bridesmaids words Lucy Lawrence Maids to Measure Rewritten True Bride

Sorella Vita

Needle & Thread

Make them wink The Barbie effect is in full swing, with pinks hitting the runways in an array of silhouettes and shades, from bright fuchsias and hot pinks to a barely-there hint of the hue. Put on your rose-coloured glasses and live out your Barbie-inspired dreams!

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HOT FROCKS Rewritten

Shoulder charge

Morilee

The latest bridesmaid collections put the shoulders firmly in the spotlight. From asymmetric and halter necks to off-the-shoulder, a shoulder-baring silhouette is romantic and oh-so stylish.

Nola London

True Bride

Rewritten

Maids to Measure

Nola London

Halfpenny London Rewritten

It’s a wrap Timeless, versatile and universally flattering, wrap dresses are always en vogue – and they’re proving a favourite in the latest bridesmaid collections. Light, leg-baring styles are a dream for spring and summer weddings, while sumptuous fabrics and sleeves make for a fashionSorella Vita

forward autumn or winter option.

feature | BRIDESMAIDS | HOT FROCKS Needle & Thread

The back factor Following bridal fashion’s penchant for back-baring silhouettes, the latest bridesmaid dresses offer some coolly captivating cuts. From a statement open back to a sweeping cowl or keyhole back, and finishing touches such as criss-cross straps and bows, there’s a gorgeously head-turning choice. Rewritten

Maids to Measure

Rewritten

Morilee

Rewritten

True Bride True Bride

Nola London Maids to Measure

TH & TH

Needle & Thread

Earth song Shades inspired by mother nature are all the rage right now. Picture a spring or summer wedding with dresses in olive, sage or eucalyptus for a fresh look and how about forest green or luxe emerald in satin or velvet for an autumn or winter celebration? If you’re planning an outdoor element to your day, go a step further and work in some floral prints for a petal-pretty bride tribe!

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Halfpenny London halfpennylondon.com

Maids to Measure at St Ives Bridal Boutique stivesbridalboutique.co.uk Morilee morilee.com

Needle & Thread needleandthread.com Rewritten wearerewritten.com Sorella Vita sorellavita.com TH & TH thandth.com

True Bride truebride.co.uk

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The atmospheric alternative to traditional marquees. Bespoke configurations create the perfect space for any event. Please contact us for details of our next

OPEN WEEKEND 01271 542639 info@world-inspired.co.uk worldinspiredtents.co.uk

feature | JEWELLERY | ALL THAT GLITTERS

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Wedding jewellery to fall in love with, all crafted here in the South-west words Hannah May, Lucy Lawrence

Photography Beth Cath Key Photography Venue Bovey Castle

SPIRIT OF THE MOOR Creating gorgeously distinctive pieces from her Dartmoor studio, Corrinne Eira Evans produces jewellery with provenance and personality. Whether you wish to gift your bridesmaids something to wear on the big day, present the mums with a bespoke keepsake or furnish your bridal ensemble with an exquisite finishing touch or two, her ever-evolving collection is awash with jewellery designed to pique the senses. Using recycled silver and gold in all her work, Corrinne’s stunning ready-to-ship collection features everything from Moon Chain earrings and bracelets to SunDial bangles and dazzling chainmail and diamond rings, while her ceremonial rings are the perfect statement-making addition and come in a range of glittering gemstones. Her latest collection, Moorland Glow, is inspired by the landscape surrounding her Dartmoor studio. It marks a slight shift for Corrinne toward a new fine jewellery direction using single mine origin 18ct white and yellow gold. With chainmail rings housing beautiful one-of-a-kind gemstones including Misfit ethically sourced sapphires, the range comprises bespoke, custom and commissioned pieces perfect for couples wanting to source something ethical, locally made and truly unique. You might fall for the lush green of a hexagon cut Australian parti sapphire that reflects the mossy woodlands of Dartmoor or crave the river-like blues of a claw-set Montana heated Misfit sapphire laced in 18ct white gold. Alternatively, you might like to unleash your imaginations and sign up for a special wedding band-making workshop to create your very own covet-worthy pieces. corrinneeiraevans.com

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feature | JEWELLERY | ALL THAT GLITTERS

TIME TO SHINE Seeking the perfect ‘something special’ to complete your bridal ensemble? Designer-maker Janie Wolverson of The Lucky Sixpence specialises in standout accessories for brides who are “not afraid to make a statement”; those trailblazers and trendsetters who are keen to break away from the traditional bridal mould. Lovingly handcrafted in Janie’s Devon studio, the one-of-a-kind collections are created from the finest upcycled vintage and pre-loved materials sourced from small, independent and – whenever possible – local businesses. Statement-making crowns are a highlight of the collection, from a showstopping

headbands, head chains and scatter pins designed to layer and mix and match with each other or with the one-off pieces crafted from vintage finds. The capsule collection means you can pick and choose elements to build your own look. And, with statement earrings continuing to tick the bridal trend boxes, you’re sure to find the perfect

Eleanor Bryant Photography

glass diamantés and Swarovski crystals. There are also pearl and diamanté halos,

Florence Fox Photography

mother of pearl spike crown to a floral twig crown in a glorious range of gold tones,

designs to pair with the latest gowns, from crystal-encrusted hoops and shouldergrazing mother of pearl pieces to blossom earrings cascading with freshwater pearls. And if there’s nothing that perfectly fits your bridal brief, enlist the help of Janie’s custom-made service, where she will design a bespoke and striking piece just for you. theluckysixpence.co.uk

DIVINE DESIGNS Renowned for his beautifully distinctive jewellery, Justin Duance’s creations are a firm favourite with couples seeking something personal, whether it’s an engagement ring cast in the sand of a special beach or a wedding ring inlaid with the hardwood of their choosing. The jeweller has now launched a collection of Ready to Wear designs featuring signature handmade items such as his sandcast studs, rings, cufflinks and pendants, which are dispatched within one to three days. Whether your wedding date is looming fast and you need the perfect rings or accessories, or you’re seeking some last-minute presents, there’s just a short wait before you receive your piece of Cornish treasure. The Off the Bench Peg collection also has a dispatch time of one to three working days. The collection features one-of-a-kind designs and experimental pieces from Justin and his small team of makers – from signet rings and diamond pod pendants to pendulum studs, wave rings, sapphire rings and gold bar earrings. Bespoke commissions are still very much at the heart of Justin Duance. Whether you’d like to use the gemstones of a treasured heirloom, a piece cast in the sand of the beach of your engagement or a vision in your mind made material, the team relish crafting personalised pieces to match your specifications. Usually taking between four to six weeks, you can look forward to a bespoke and unique design to treasure forever. justind.co.uk

'Make Your Own

'Make Your Own Wedding Band' WeddingWorkshops Band' Workshops

With Corrinne Eira Evans

Image; 18ct white gold and diamond wedding rings

2024 2025 2024 &&2025 Dates Available

2023 now fully booked Dates Available Book Online or in the Gallery. Book Online or in the Gallery.

Moon & Moor Gallery Moon & Moor Gallery

19 The Victorian Arcade, Okehampton, EX20 1EX 19 The Victorian Arcade, Okehampton, EX20 1EX

www.corrinneeiraevans.com . . info@corrinneeiraevans.com info@corrinneeiraevans.com . 07853158861 www.corrinneeiraevans.com . 07853158861

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feature | RINGS | IN WITH THE OLD Justin Duance

IN WITH THE OLD Stylish, sustainable and unique, vintage-inspired rings with a modern twist are the jewellery choice du jour words Hannah May

In wedding world, vintage is the new en vogue.

prefer – whether modern glamour with a vintage edge

solitaire to anything your heart desires. Alongside our

With couples clamouring for something old and

or era-wear subtly remodelled for the modern age –

collection of larger showstopping diamonds, we also

unique – but with a nouveau twist – everything

today’s plethora of options means you’ll be able to find

keep smaller vintage stones, which are perfect for

from the dress to the décor is receiving the retro

or commission a ring to suit.

adding little sparkles to wedding and engagement rings

treatment, including the rings.

alike.” One of the easiest ways to inject some vintage allure is

Vintage-inspired, reworked heirloom and recycled

through your choice of stone. You might want to pick

Alternatively, you might want to focus on the metal,

jewellery is all the rage. Not only is it in keeping with

an interesting cut or coloured vintage stone from a

along with details such as melting old silver and gold

the popular ethos of sustainability, but it guarantees

jeweller’s collection, or incorporate an item worn by

together, exploring different casting techniques and

the bespoke factor is in full and beautiful force. One-

a beloved somebody into a fresh design.

adding extra personalisation and vintage style through

off reclaimed and reimagined pieces look and feel

engravings, textures, finishes and pattern.

more meaningful, while allowing couples to express

“We keep a collection of vintage diamonds at the

their love for each other by wearing rings that have

workshop that you can choose from,” says Jamila

Justin’s signature sandcasting lends additional layers of

been created or customised especially for them.

Hirtenstein from Justin Duance Jewellery (justind.

interest, dimension and symbolism to every handmade

co.uk). “Each diamond was hand-cut more than 100

piece. “When we cast gold into beach sand to make

From vintage diamonds and gemstones to vintage-

years ago. They twinkle differently from modern cut

a ring, it takes on an organic texture from the sand. It

inspired cuts and settings, the latest lust-have

diamonds, and each one has its own character. Once

makes each one feel like a piece of long-lost treasure,

engagement and wedding rings take the wow factor to

you have chosen the perfect stone for you, we can set

which can often pair nicely with vintage engagement

new and heady heights. And whatever aesthetic you

about designing the ring for it to go in – from a classic

rings,” explains Jamila.

feature | RINGS | IN WITH THE OLD

1. 3.

ENDURING LOVE From nostalgic cuts and intricate settings to vintage gemstones, these dazzling designs celebrate the beauty of bygone days...

Blending clean lines and head-turning glamour, an emerald cut diamond is reminiscent of Art Deco style. This elegant design 2.

by Erin Cox pairs the subtle yellow warmth of the diamond with an 18ct gold setting. erincox.co.uk

The 1920s saw a resurgence in chainmail jewellery and this intricately crafted ring by Corrinne Eira Evans, featuring a stunning green sapphire, offers a striking contemporary take on vintage style. corrinneeiraevans.com

The unique character of vintage diamonds pairs perfectly with the organic texture of a sandcast setting in this one-of-a-kind 3.

ring by Justin Duance. justind.co.uk

“If you are lucky enough to have a vintage piece

signets, triangle solitaires and bubble rings,

of jewellery that you would like remodelled,

while her capsule collection of contemporary

we love to breathe new life into pieces that

hand-cast and finished molten wedding rings

This distinctive duo by The Remarkable Goldsmiths pairs

might be broken or just don’t feel quite right,”

can all be made from your own old gold or

heirloom opals and sapphires with a stunning textured setting.

she elaborates of the myriad options available.

platinum.

theremarkablegoldsmiths.co.uk

“By using the same materials, you keep all the sentiments that piece holds, and also often end

So gather your treasured items of jewellery

up with a really unique design that has been led

and an idea of how you’d like them

by the gemstones you have.”

transformed and sit down with your favourite jeweller to figure it out. Peruse their

Award-winning jeweller Erin Cox (erincox.

collections to find a ready-to-wear piece or

co.uk) has spent years honing the process

source some inspiration and let the creative

of remodelling recycled and Fairtrade gold,

process guide you toward the vintage-inspired

platinum and gemstones into beautiful new

ring of your dreams.

pieces within her individual style. “It is a wonderful way of breathing a new lease of life into valuable or sentimental materials that

This three-stone design by Erin Cox, featuring a pink sapphire and framed by two diamonds, makes for a gorgeous

1. The Remarkable Goldsmiths

contemporary take on a vintage trilogy ring. erincox.co.uk

theremarkablegoldsmiths.co.uk

aren’t quite to your style or fit in their current

2. Erin Cox erincox.co.uk

form,” explains Jasmine Bowden.

3. Justin Duance justind.co.uk

Erin’s distinctive designs range from diamond tiara rings and textured stackable bands to

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feature | GROOMS | SUITS YOU

SUITS YOU It’s time to dress to seriously impress. But where to start? We’ve broken down the basics of grooms wear to help you build a wedding wardrobe that looks and feels the very best version of you words Hannah May

THE SUIT Let’s start with the suit, which can come in a range of forms, styles and colours. Of course, the cardinal rule is comfort, so pick something first for the feel before following your own style guidelines. Consider your physical build, venue, season and the bridal ensemble to whittle down your choices to a preferred few. Then try them all on, complete with accessories, to curate your final look.

MORNING SUIT

Traditionally, this is the formal ensemble to wear for a wedding occurring before 3pm (hence the name), comprising dress trousers, a white shirt, double-breasted waistcoat and morning coat. Of course, modern style screams for a bespoke approach even to traditional tailoring, so personalise by playing with prints (tie, socks, waistcoat, jacket lining), patterns (pinstripes, checks, polka dots, herringbone), textures (silk waistcoat, dried flower

buttonhole) and colour (blue, grey, brown

suit, colourful cravat or pocket square, bright waistcoat). Alternatively, stick to the dress code and pair with a top hat and cane to complete the formalities, or relax the look entirely with a coloured shirt or designer silk scarf. Evoke your inner sartorialist and nod to vintage wear by substituting a tailcoat for a Peaky Blindersstyle knee-length frock coat (with flat cap and skinny tie) and prepare to set your fiancée’s heart aflutter.

WHITE TIE The most formal of dress codes, white tie is usually the reserve for royalty and state dinners. So, if you fancy full evening dress, the uberelegant combination of white bow tie, (evening) tailcoat, dress shirt, white low-cut waistcoat, black dress

trousers and black patent leather shoes will certainly appeal. The jacket can be either black or white (or a tux as opposed to a tailcoat), while a top hat and cane are the optional traditional accessories.

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SUITS YOU

BLACK TIE OR TUXEDO The sharp combination of all-black (silk-lapelled) dinner jacket, tapered dress trousers and bow tie (with braces, black socks and white pleated dress shirt) remains as debonair as ever, allowing grooms to channel their James Bond alter ego while remaining perennially on-trend. Add a waistcoat or cummerbund for extra formality or pick a more pared-back ensemble by donning the essentials (with or without a bow tie). This is one look where you can’t mess with the original format too much, so splice in some personality via the minutiae. Vary the tone to a midnight blue (or brown or grey – so long as the trouser colour is the same) or sport an eye-catching (though

not too blingy) pair of cufflinks, designer Oxford shoes (shiny is standard), turtleneck instead of a shirt, coloured bow tie or a luxe velvet jacket. 3.

LOUNGE SUIT

This is one of the most popular outfits and includes a twobutton (single or double-breasted, two or three-piece) suit, tie and Oxford shoes. Experiment with your lapels, shirt and suit colours, fabrics (texture such as tweed is de rigueur) and tie thickness (standard or skinny) to create a fabulously bespoke outfit. It can be made even more ‘you’ with those all-important accessories (pocket square, boutonniere, braces, cufflinks, shoes).

feature | GROOMS |SUITS YOU

THE SEASON It’s important to consider the time of year in which you’re getting hitched. You might dream of a beige linen suit but if it’s a yuletide wedding you’re planning, then you might want to reconsider your dress code to reflect the season. Of course, there are no rules to adhere to but your own – just remember that practicality is king, and you won’t look or feel a million dollars if you’re sweating into a velvet suit in the middle of a heatwave...

SPRING

Celebrate the season of rebirth with lighter fabrics and tones, layering them to ensure you’re warm and comfortable while showcasing a look loaded with en vogue interest. Think steel blue, fresh sage, leafy green and pebble grey suits peppered with floral prints or accents in your tie, waistcoat, shirt or even jacket.

SUMMER

Now is the perfect time for cream and sandy shades, sweet pastels and festival brights. Plump for cooler cottons, linen and 7.

breathable silk blends for your suit fabric or up the panache with bold and jazzy prints (botanical, pop art or ocean-inspired), colour blocking and co-ords, and snazzy sneakers. Meanwhile, short suits are a modern must-have for uber-cool grooms.

AUTUMN

Tweed, corduroy and flannel are winning fabrics for autumn, while warm and rich tones like burgundy and burnt orange or earthy shades of ochre and rustic brown work wonderfully as seasonal colour schemes. Dress head-to-toe in these opulent tones or pick a feature item such

7. 6.

as your jacket and infuse additional style with the extras such as a paisley print tie,

statement dried flower buttonhole, velvet bow tie or checked waistcoat. Slip on a pair of luxe loafers for laidback style.

WINTER

This time of year gives grooms the opportunity to indulge in a heady dose of luxury. Think heavier, feel-me fabrics like tweed, wool and velvet in brooding tones of deep midnight blue, dark fern and slate grey. Throw in some pattern via the neckwear or waistcoat (or a knit

as an alternative) with a pinch of plaid, herringbone or a unique print. Mash your materials and motifs for an eclectic ensemble or focus on a textured feature or two for a more subtle edge.

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SUITS YOU

THE FINISHING TOUCHES

Completing your outfit is no mean feat. The accessories can make or break your desired look, so experiment with a host of options before finalising your choices. Think about everything from the neckwear (tie, bow tie, cravat) to the formalities (braces, cummerbunds), flourishes (boutonnière, pocket square, tie pin/bar, cufflinks, jewellery) and footwear… and don’t forget the socks! Here are some of our favourites... 10.

11.

13.

12.

10.

14.

14. 3.

15.

11.

Chloe Ely

TO BUY OR NOT TO BUY? The question of whether to purchase or hire remains a personal one, but with many couples planning a sustainable celebration, hiring or sourcing at least some of your pieces as vintage or secondhand is a more eco-friendly choice. Not only will you keep costs down, but you’ll be able to curate a more bespoke look that reflects your individual sense of style. You might want to pair your grandad’s vintage DJ with some chinos, a pair of heirloom cufflinks and a new pair of shiny leather brogues. Alternatively, hire a bang on-trend bright blue suit from a top designer to go with your well-worn Converse and a retro floral print shirt for a more self-styled outfit. Of course, if you’re selective about what you buy and opt for investment pieces, you’ll be able to re-wear items again to give the purchase greater value for money. There’s also the option to resell or donate items to charity to claw back cash or pay your fortune forward. You could buy your suit and hire your accessories, or vice versa, to boost your cash and planet-saving credentials; the point is to pick with as much conscience as you can to create an outfit that suitably reflects your budget, theme, sense of style and character.

STOCKISTS 1. Favourbrook favourbrook.com 2. Peter Posh peterposh.co.uk 3. Moss moss.co.uk 4. New & Lingwood newandlingwood.com 5. House of Cavani cavani.co.uk 6. Twisted Tailor twistedtailor.com 7. Suitsupply suitsupply.com 8. Blake Mill blakemill.co.uk 9. Hannah Louise Lamb hannahlouiselamb.com 10. Manolo Blahnik manoloblahnik.com 11. Duke + Dexter dukeanddexter.com 12. Fairfax & Favor fairfaxandfavor.com 13. Noel Jewellery noeljewellery.com 14. Justin Duance justind.co.uk 15. Tateossian tateossian.com

ULTIMATE WEDDING SHOWS ACROSS THE SOUTHWEST Visit our website for dates, locations, to register your interest in our shows and get more information. IN ASSOCIATION WITH TM

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feature | wed’s HIP LIST

wed’s HIP LIST

Fresh, fun and fabulous ways to add a unique touch to your day words Lucy Lawrence, Rebecca Matthews

PICTURE OF HAPPINESS We love the style of illustrator Maria Taylor, who lovingly creates illustrations from her small studio in Newlyn, Cornwall. Having lent her artistic skills to children’s illustrations, editorials and greetings cards, she is now offering personalised illustrations to bring your love story to life. Bespoke pictures – which can incorporate anything from a cherished memory, the place you first met or a shared hobby – make a thoughtful and meaningful gift, ideal for capturing the unique nature of your romance. instagram.com/14paperboats_love_stories

DÉCOR DREAMS When it comes to heavenly pairings, champagne and styling is right up there in our eyes with gin and tonic, and jam and cream – and the new service from wedding styling specialists Out of the Ordinary Event Hire sounds like a wonderful way to tick décor off your to-do list. The Champagne and Styling sessions allow you to immerse yourself in your dream wedding style, creating two bespoke looks and a mood board for your day with the help of the experienced event styling team – all the while sipping on champagne or non-alcoholic fizz! Available to book via their website, a session for two people is £150, while four people can enjoy the fun for £250. Gift vouchers are also available for an inspired engagement present – leaving the recipient to look forward to bringing their décor dreams to life! outoftheordinaryeventhire.com

SWEET TEMPTATION Chocolate always goes down well as a wedding favour – and the sumptuous creations from Devon-based Willie’s Cacao are guaranteed to wow your guests. Made from fine single estate cacaos and completely natural ingredients, we love the truffles, which come in a range of divine flavours: think praline, salted caramel or how about champagne flavour for a delectable sweet treat with a celebratory twist! williescacao.com

JUST THE TONIC We love a classic gin and tonic as a welcome drink at a wedding – and it’s even better when it’s made locally! Distilled with 17 botanicals – including Dartmoor flavours of fresh gorse flowers picked on the moor, rowan and hawthorn berries, chamomile and Devon violet leaves – Papillon Gin is a deliciously refreshing choice. What’s more, the award-winning distillery donates 1% from each bottle sale to a local Butterfly Conservation project. papillongin.co.uk

DEVONSHIRE DELIGHT Seeking a delectable Devon sparkling of the highest quality? Michael Caines’ luxury Devon hotel Lympstone Manor has launched its first Classic Cuvée from the 2020 vintage under its Lympstone Manor Estate label. Produced by the méthode traditionelle in the style of a premium English sparkling wine, the blend of pinot noir, meunier and chardonnay is a sensational and elegant drink just perfect for toasting your newly married status! lympstonemanorestate.co.uk

feature | STYLING | YOU, ME AND THE SEA

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YOU, ME AND THE SEA

d the sea The mesmerising landscape surrounding Gara Rock Hotel inspires a dreamily luxe scheme for a coastal celebration photography Clare Kinchin Photography styling Rustic Love

feature | STYLING | YOU, ME AND THE SEA

Perched on a secluded clifftop with out of this world views across the South Devon coastline, Gara Rock Hotel is a stunning spot where rustic-chic interiors meet snug bedrooms, heated pools, a spa and restaurant. A sublime blend of luxury and scenery, it makes an irresistibly romantic setting for a wedding – and this styled shoot showcases just how extraordinary and unique this seaside retreat is. The surrounding landscape was the starting point for the styling. “The shoot was inspired by the hotel’s signature style, using natural textures and its soft, earthy colour palette,” explains Simone Burchell of Gara Rock Hotel. “Inspiration was taken from the beautiful surroundings by using classic oatmeal, deep browns, muted greens, burnt oranges and pops of ochre yellows and sea blues. The result is a luxurious feel that oozes warmth and indulgence.” The tablescape is rich in earthy tones and natural textures: blooms with a just-gathered feel nestle green glassware, rattan charger plates, tapered candles and stationery dotted with warm orange florals. Adorned with textured dried blooms, the ceremony arch frames the seascape, making a spectacular setting to exchange vows. Fittingly, the models - real couple Aoife and James - have a love story of their own playing out in this extraordinary setting. “Aoife and James were engaged at Gara Rock, and they’re returning in 2024 to tie the knot,” says Simone. James’s attire blends seamlessly with the rich blue and ochre shades of the aesthetic, while Aoife’s bridal gowns - teamed with natural make-up and a soft updo - balance contemporary style with relaxed romance - perfect for loved-up wanders on the clifftops.

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feature | STYLING | YOU, ME AND THE SEA

Photography

Clare Kinchin Photography clarekinchinphotography.co.uk Venue

Gara Rock Hotel gararock.com Styling

Rustic Love rusticlovehire.com Dresses

Vera Wang Bride Kelsey Rose from The Ivory Lounge theivorylounge.co.uk Suit

Zebel zebel.co.uk Hair

Toni Gogola Wedding Hair tonigogola.co.uk Make-up

Amy Elizabeth Makeup Artist amy-elizabeth.com Flowers

Caroline Hodges Flowers carolinehodgesflowers.co.uk Napkins & table runner

The Knotted Napkin Co. theknottednapkinco.com Stationery

ABCD Weddings abcd-weddings.co.uk Models

Aoife & James

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YOU, ME AND THE SEA

feature | STYLING | LOVE IN LAVENDER

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LOVE IN LAVENDER

love in lavender

Immerse your guests in an oh-so pretty wedding scene of delicate lilac and pastel blue photography Charlotte Griffiths concept Tracy Pallari styling Sage & Belle Styling words Becci Clubb

feature | STYLING | LOVE IN LAVENDER

Weaving the gentle hues of lilac and pastel blue into fabulous floral arrangements was the starting inspiration for this styled shoot at Barley Wood, a picturesque wedding venue surrounded by stunning countryside views. A powder blue French Renaissance theme evokes a classic, elegant and dreamily timeless feel. Floral displays filled with pale blue hydrangea, scented sweet peas, soft lavender roses, delphiniums and stocks are paired with fragrant foliage, in the form of eucalyptus and ivy, to give the blooms a gathered-from-the-garden feel. Pale blue silk table runners and napkins teamed with gold accents make the table details pop against the fresh white backdrop of the neutral venue, while gold-rimmed glass plate chargers are topped with pretty place name cards, finished with lilac ribbons. The luxe air of romance continues in the stationery suite, with a lilac, pale blue and purple wisteria design trailing across the textured card, and the two-tiered lilac cake with its painted gold sugar work and a decorative floral arch framing it. The perfect pairing for the dreamy details, the bride stuns in a stylish A-line gown with a high leg split and removable off-the-shoulder puff sleeves. Her glamorous updo is finished with a bespoke floral hair accessory, while a soft natural pink lip enhances the mood of romance. A pair of lilac heels make the oh-so gorgeous finishing touch to the pastel-pretty scene.

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LOVE IN LAVENDER

feature | STYLING | LOVE IN LAVENDER

Photography

Charlotte Griffiths charlottegriffithsphotography.com Concept, planning, hair & hair accessories

Tracy Pallari

tracypallari.com Styling

Sage & Belle Styling sageandbelle.co.uk Venue

Barley Wood barleywood.org Flowers

Tracy Pallari tracypallari.com/flowers

Whisper & Wild

whisper-and-wild.com Dress

Sadie Bee from White Lace & Promises whitelaceandpromises.co.uk Make-up

Sophie Wylie instagram.com/ sophiewyliemakeup Shoes

Rainbow Club rainbowclub.co.uk Stationery

ABCD

abcd-weddings.co.uk Ribbons

The Silk Studio thesilkstudio.co.uk Cake

Laura’s Kitchen Cakery lauraskitchencakery.co.uk Mobile bar

Escapade your-escapade.co.uk Models

Francesca Cosh instagram.com/francescacosh

Rob Green

instagram.com/robhgreen

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feature | HOW TO PLAN A WEDDING

HOW TO:

PLAN A WEDDING Newly engaged? Congratulations! Get started on your planning journey with these top tips from the wedding experts

iStock.com/Rawpixel

words Hannah May

Planning a wedding can be one of the most

Green from Rebel & Anchor (rebelandanchor.co.uk).

flow. This is where the humble spreadsheet becomes

exciting yet daunting tasks of your life. Once the

“The most important thing is budget. Have a think

your best friend.

freshly engaged elation starts to take second

about what you can afford and how long it will take

place to the pragmatics of designing your day,

to achieve this. Weddings can be expensive, so think

Alternatively, you might want to pick your top must-

couples can struggle to make sense of exactly

carefully about what is feasible and always give yourself

haves before figuring out how to afford them. For

what to do – and when to do it.

a contingency fund.”

example, if there’s a place you’ve always dreamed of

We’ve enlisted the help of the wedding experts to help

Many of the decisions you need to make will be

find a money-saving way to make it a reality – such

you navigate your way to wedding planning perfection,

directly impacted by the amount of money you have to

as with an off-season or mid-week date, or by scaling

minus the common hitches...

spend. An awareness of your priorities, and the

back on other elements.

marrying, work it through as your first scenario and

First things first

percentage of your budget that you’re willing to fork out for them, is vital. An idea of where this money

Time is another important factor, as planner and stylist

“When planning a wedding there’s a couple of starting

will come from, and when it will be available, will also

Hazel Parsons from Out of the Ordinary Weddings

points,” says events and wedding producer Rebecca

assist you in booking suppliers and maintaining cash

(outoftheordinaryweddings.com) explains. “When

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HOW TO PLAN A WEDDING

choosing the date, consider the lead time and whether you’ll have enough time to make the wedding planning experience enjoyable – or will you need a planner to support you?” she asks. “Consider seasonality and weather, and what impact this could have on your day. For example, in July: will it be too hot, do you need a wet weather plan or will there be enough guest accommodation if it is during the school holidays?” Consider your guests’ diaries and schedules, as well as what other events might be taking place around the same time, such as public holidays, sports events and royal celebrations. “The other starting point may be the location or venue,” says Rebecca. “Contact the venue immediately to check availability; they can get booked up years in advance.” This might inform your final choice of date, or your date may dictate the venue if you’re set on the ‘when’, such as a public holiday, anniversary or meaningful date. “When going to see venues, take a list of questions to keep you on track,” reminds Rebecca. “It’s easy to get swept along when walking around the perfect place, but if you have visions of 100 guests and the venue holds only 70 then you need to compromise or look elsewhere. Ask questions such as: can they hold the ceremony on-site, what areas are licensed, do they allow outside caterers, do they have corkage on drinks, do they have accommodation, is there parking, do they have noise restrictions, and what do their costs include?” See p.105 for more questions to ask your venue.

Plan ahead Always plan contingencies. “Licensed venues have a maximum capacity based on their ceremonies licence and fire risk assessment,” explains Hazel. “If you are planning an outdoor wedding, you need indoor spaces as a back-up should the weather not play ball – so both areas need to accommodate your guest numbers.” A pragmatic approach will serve you well. Walk through your perfect day and note what needs to be done to accomplish this – then action each point within the timeframe and budget you’ve allocated yourselves. Hiring a planner and/or stylist to help can save time and money, and can ensure that everything from establishing a look to booking the suppliers and on-the-day coordination and pack away is a seamless and stress-free affair. And don’t forget to ‘give notice’, which requires signing a legal statement at your local register office to state your intention of getting married or forming a civil partnership. This should be done at least 29 days before the ceremony, and you’ll have to wed within 12 months of giving notice.

It’s a people (and place) thing The next step involves the numbers game. If you’re set on an elopement, then the process will be a vastly scaled-back version of the standard planning requirements. A micro wedding will feature limited guests, but if you’re organising a big wedding, then your guest list will reflect this. “Once you have your venue and date set, I would recommend getting your save the dates out asap,” advises Rebecca of the next item on your checklist. “This will give you feedback on the numbers to expect, which will help with budgeting, and allow guests to start thinking about accommodation. If you leave it too late, they may struggle to find somewhere to stay.” Your guest list will often impact your supplier list, both of which are influenced by your budget. The best way to determine all of this and make your choices is to prioritise your key elements. For Hazel, the top items of the list are “the venue, your officiant, utilities, catering, drinks and the bar, both of your outfits and rings, photography, event hire equipment and entertainment,” she says. “If you have a DIY venue then a coordinator should be high on your list too. After this, there’s the stationery, cake, décor and extra fun things like garden games, candyfloss cart and I Do Film and Photos

additional entertainment.”

Under canvas “Remember that marquee weddings add another level of planning,” advises Rebecca. “You need to not only find your location, style of marquee, caterer, bar, décor and

feature | HOW TO PLAN A WEDDING

entertainment, you also need to make sure you’ve

the right suppliers.” These will include items

got power, toilets, heating and waste disposal.

such as the décor, stationery and signage, props,

Consider having an on-the-day coordinator to

tableware, lighting, floristry, catering and cake. Of

see that the day runs perfectly. If you’re getting

course, you can book many of these in advance if

married elsewhere, you will need someone on-

you simply love what they do, as they will work

site to meet all the suppliers coming in and show

with you to deliver your vision and needs to spec.

them where to set up.”

So, if food is to be a particular highlight, book your favourite caterers early on, then fine-tune the

There can be a number of ‘hidden’ tasks and

menu with them to reflect your theme.

expenses here, as Hazel outlines. “Tick off the basics first, then you can choose to allocate the

“When it comes to suppliers, think about what

rest of your budget where it’s most needed,” she

you’re trying to achieve for the day itself,”

says. “Allow enough budget for staff to help set

continues Rebecca. “If it’s a relaxed bohemian

up, coordinate, staff the bar and to pack down

style then a feasting-style caterer would be better

for you, or these jobs will fall to you and your

than one used to a traditional three-course seated

wedding party. It is surprising how long these jobs

service. This vibe you’ve honed down should

take, so having help to hand will allow you to be

travel through the day from the style of bridal

involved as much or as little as you want.”

attire, hair and make-up and venue styling to catering and entertainment.”

Scheduling is a common pitfall that Hazel observes when it comes to constructing and clearing a

Hazel suggests a holistic approach to the style

marquee wedding. She advises a plan to ensure

factor. “Consider the type of venue and its

supplier deliveries and collections are allocated at

location, then the season and the colour of the

the right time; for example, so that the marquee

stationery, dresses, suits, along with the style, such

is erected before the power arrives but before

as rustic, boho, coastal, opulent, contemporary,

the marquee team leaves, to allow them time to

fun...,” she says.

check the electrics.

Do you DIY?

“Make a note of the five main colours you are using, the four words that best describe the feel of

One way to ease the pressure and add extra

your day, and the type of tables and chairs you will

personalisation is to enlist the help of entrusted

use, and use this as your starting point for styling,”

friends and family members, especially by tapping

she suggests. “Get looking on Pinterest and create

into their skill sets, talents and interests. This

a master board to reflect your look. Revisit your

might also save you time and money, as Hazel

board and whittle it down to the things you love:

explains. “One of the biggest mistakes couples

this is your mood board.”

make when planning a wedding is time; not realising how long things take to do and trying to

Tried, tested and trusted recommendations are

do too much of it themselves, like moving chairs

a sage way forward, so that you curate a list

from the ceremony to the reception, doing all

of suppliers based on personal and vicarious

of the flower installations and clearing up after a

experience. Just remember to balance your wants

massive party for 150 people the morning after

with your guests’ needs, and you’ll be in winning

their wedding,” she says. “They often forget that

formula territory.

welcoming and hosting family and friends is a fulltime job in the days leading up to the wedding.”

“When it comes to entertainment, think about what you like to listen to when you’re at a

Spare yourself additional stress by asking for help,

wedding or party, and try to see the band if

whether professionally or personally, and delegate

they’re performing elsewhere,” says Rebecca of

the tasks you’re happy for others to take on to

the importance of sampling suppliers whenever

free up the energy and headspace for you to focus

possible. This can also include cake/wine/food

on what you need to achieve.

tastings, floral workshops, engagement photo

The look of love

shoots and rehearsal events.

“One of the most fun things about planning a

“Take recommendations from friends and

wedding is the style you want for the day and

always check contracts for any need-to-know

how it can reflect you as a couple,” says Rebecca

information, such as required meals or what your

regarding the next planning stage. Couples can too

suppliers’ technical and power requirements may

often jump to aesthetics ahead of the more

be,” she adds. “There’s no point in having an

pressing pragmatics, so once the primary details of

eight-piece band if you don’t have the right size

budget, venue, date and main suppliers have been

staging!” Picture everything. Then work as a couple with

“Pinterest can be great for getting ideas and to

your suppliers (and selected help from family

let your imagination go wild!” she elaborates.

and friends) to combine a practical yet personal

“However, eventually you will need to hone down

approach to planning what will ultimately become

to either a colour scheme or look and feel. Once

the wedding day of your dreams.

you have your vibe it is easier to then source

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Verity Westcott Westcott Photography Photography Verity

decided – it’s time to let your imagination run riot!

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HOW TO PLAN A WEDDING

“Make a note of the five main colours you are using, the four words that best describe the feel of your day...”

feature | CEREMONIALLY SPEAKING

ceremonially speaking From civil ceremonies and celebratory ceremonies to pagan handfastings, wed looks at the many ways you can formalise and celebrate your union words Hannah May & Nicola Le Couteur Bisson, Guild of Cornish Celebrants

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CEREMONIALLY SPEAKING

However and whenever you’re thinking of getting

the marriage to be registered. The ceremony must take the form

married, there’s a host of ways to do it to suit your vision.

of the rites and ceremonies of the Religious denomination in

Whether you’re living by the rule book or wanting to

which you are marrying and will include some form of prescribed

write your own, couples can design a day to reflect their

vows. Same-sex couples can get married in a religious building if

love story by picking a mode to match, from the multitude

it has been registered for them to do so.

of ways to say (or not say!) ‘I do’ that are also oh-so ‘you’.

Sequel Wedding Legally speaking…

Sequel weddings are a two-part event whereby couples have a

First off, don’t forget the legal requirements of entering

small ceremony or intimate wedding followed by a larger second

matrimony. To get married or form a civil partnership in England

ceremony or celebration at a later date (only one can be legally

and Wales (with differing rules for Scotland and Northern

recognised). This can take the form of an elopement, virtual or

Ireland), from 27th February 2023 you must both be 18 years

micro wedding followed by a grand-scale sequel the following

of age, not closely related nor already married or in a civil

year.

partnership. Two witnesses must be present at the wedding.

Celebratory Ceremony Documents required include proof of name, age, any name

This is a way for couples to celebrate their marriage with friends

changes, nationality and address. Additional paperwork such as

and family when and wherever they want. It is free of any legal

details of where and when you intend to marry must also be

restraints and can be conducted by a professional celebrant or

submitted – alongside (if applicable) a decree absolute or final

a friend. Your status won’t alter since the service isn’t legally

order, entry visa and death certificate of your former partner.

binding, but it does give total freedom and flexibility with regards

Non-UK nationals will need to check any visa requirements, and

to venue and content, and can include traditional elements such

allow additional time for the notice to be processed.

as vow and ring exchanges and readings, or anything else you personally desire, from promises to rituals such as handfasting,

A notice period of at least 29 days must be given by signing a

a sand ceremony or a ring warming. Most couples will have a

legal statement to say you intend to get married or form a civil

simple legal ceremony either just before or after the celebratory

partnership at your local register office (the district of which you

ceremony. Professional celebrants work with the couple

must have lived in for at least seven days), and the ceremony

to personalise the ceremony in its entirety and spend time

must be completed within 12 months of submitting this notice.

meeting with and getting to know the couple. The celebrant will then write and conduct a ceremony which is completely

Civil Marriage

unique and tailored to the couple and reflects their wishes.

This is a non-religious legally binding marriage ceremony

There are two types of professional celebrant: independent

performed by two local authority officials called a superintendent

celebrants and humanists. A humanist celebrant is a member of

registrar and a registrar, at a register office, registration office

Humanists UK and follows their philosophy and will not usually

or venue approved by the local council. It can feature readings,

allow any religious or spiritual references in their ceremonies.

music and songs, by prior agreement, but cannot include any

An independent celebrant is led by the wishes of the couple

religious or spiritual content. Two witnesses must be present.

in the ceremony content and will include religious or spiritual references and work with couples of any or differing faiths or

Civil Partnership

non, to create a ceremony which is meaningful for all, they will

A civil partnership legally recognises the relationship between

also work with faith leaders.

two people and, though isn’t defined as a marriage, does involve similar responsibilities and rights such as tax benefits, inheritance

Pagan Handfasting

and pensions. It takes place in front of a registrar and doesn’t

The ancient pagan-inspired marriage ritual is usually performed

involve a ceremony or the exchanging of vows (though both

by an independent celebrant or fellow pagan and involves a

can be requested), but simply the signing of the civil partnership

couple’s hands being bound with ribbon or cord to signify their

document in front of two witnesses. Civil partnerships are

union. Handfasting is not legally recognised on its own as a form

open to both same-sex and opposite-sex couples, and they are

of marriage. Holding hands so that the pulse points or wrists are

referred to as civil partners, rather than husband and wife.

touching, the ribbons or cords are looped around the couples’ joined hands whilst they say their vows and promises. The

Civil Partnership Conversion

colours of the ribbons or cords can be accorded meanings and

Same-sex (but not opposite-sex) couples can convert a civil

are chosen specifically by the couple. Family members or guests

partnership into a marriage in England or Wales by attending

can be included in the ceremony by coming forward to place the

an appointment at a register office to sign a ‘conversion into

ribbon or cord over the couples hands. Further layers of meaning

marriage’ declaration in front of a superintendent registrar, who

can be added by invoking the blessings of the cardinal points and

must also sign the declaration (which you can also say to each

elements if wished.

other). A marriage certificate is then issued, dated with the date of the original civil partnership. Should you choose to follow the

Vow Renewal

conversion with a ceremony (with or without guests), you can

However you originally married, renewing your vows is a way to

do so at a register office, approved premises or religious building

celebrate your marriage and relationship. Couples can choose to

where same-sex marriages are allowed.

periodically renew their vows every decade (or even annually!), at milestone anniversaries, after having children (who they can

Thomas Frost Photography

Religious Ceremony

ask to host the reaffirmation), or to reinforce their love and

A religious marriage ceremony can take place at any Church

commitment during turbulent times. It can occur anywhere

of England church or registered religious building and must be

from your home to a poignant outside space or building or a

presided over by a vicar or authorised person, such as a minister,

traditional house of worship - and, not being legal, can be led by

who will need to ensure the marriage document is correctly

a friend or a celebrant.

produced, signed and posted to the local registration service for

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New for 2024! 1 Day Dawn to Dusk Wedding Package

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feature | PANIC AT THE DISCO!

PANIC AT THE DISCO! From sudden downpours to ripped dresses, your wedding day is unlikely to pass by without a few little hiccups. But don’t panic! Our wedding day SOS will help you carry on and enjoy the day, minus the stress words Lucy Lawrence illustrations Maria Taylor, 14PaperBoats Your big day is here… but before you know it,

needle and thread, and task them with bringing a mini

for golf umbrellas (the bigger the better so people can

something’s gone wrong and you have a mini

sewing kit on the day. If you haven’t done this, it’s likely

share!) and/or a water-resistant gazebo. However, bear

emergency to sort out. Worry not, with our

your venue will have one and a quick-fix job shouldn’t

in mind that it’s very unlikely it will rain for the whole

handy hints on what to do when it all goes a bit

take long or be noticeable. It’s worth asking your

day (especially if it wasn’t forecast!) so you should be

pear-shaped…

dressmaker or bridal boutique in advance what to do if

able to enjoy some al fresco celebrations at some point

it rips, as there may be specialist tips depending on the

during the festivities.

My dress has ripped before the wedding ceremony

material.

This one isn’t quite as disastrous as it sounds, so first

Ideally, your dress will be the last thing you put on

things first: take a deep breath. Depending on the

It’s raining and we’re having an outdoor wedding

material of the dress and where the rip is, it’s likely

Hopefully you’ve discussed an indoor option with your

have a mark for your ceremony itself. But as the party

to be fixable. Ahead of your wedding day, identify

venue beforehand, but if not – and there really is no

kicks off, and the drinks are flowing, we’ve seen many

someone in your bridal party who’s handy with a

indoor option – then umbrellas it is. Send someone out

a wedding dress suffer from red wine, chocolate,

I’ve spilt something on my dress before heading down that aisle, so it’s unlikely you’ll

PANIC AT THE DISCO!

lipstick… Different types of stain require different treatments, but if you can pop a stain-removing pen, some white chalk and some bicarbonate of soda in your emergency bag, you should be able to tackle most of them. Google is your friend (it will tell you what to use, depending on whether the stain is water or oil-based), and ask someone who hasn’t been on the champagne all day to help you take care of it!

My flowers have wilted Firstly, keeping flowers in cooler temperatures will help stave off wilting, so keep them out of direct sunlight and in a cool room or fridge until you’re ready to head down the aisle. You can also try a quick spritz of hairspray on the underside of the leaves and petals. If they’ve already wilted, and you didn’t get them from a florist who you can ask, then try popping them in fresh spring water (rather than tap) and adding a little sugar to help revive them.

My cake has melted If you think about this one in advance, there are a few ways to avoid a melting wedding cake on a baking hot summer’s day. If you are planning to display the cake outside, leave it inside in a cool, shaded area until an hour (or less) before you plan to cut it. Outside, it is best to keep it out of direct sunlight. Also think about the ingredients – buttercream (or any dairy-based icing) will melt quicker, so consider a naked or semi-naked cake if you’re marrying in the height of summer. If you notice it melting on the day, bring your cake-cutting forward (nobody complains about surprise cake!).

I’ve got puffy eyes Whether it’s a result of lack of sleep, heightened emotions or just one of those annoying things that can happen, there are a few things you can do to reduce puffy eyes on your wedding day. Put a hydrating cream on the night before (one you’ve used before – don’t try anything for the first time on the night before your wedding!) or an eye mask to apply mild pressure to the eyelids. In the morning, make a cold compress for your eyes with ice cubes, cucumber slices or a cold spoon that’s been in the freezer. And if all else fails, make-up can work wonders!

The power’s gone off! Whether it’s the weather, lots of electrical devices being used at once or just a technical glitch, a power

DIY SOS

outage can happen at a venue on rare occasions. If

It’s a good idea to have a little stash

you’re having a DIY wedding and are in charge of the

of helpful items on hand in case you

venue, consider getting a back-up generator to avoid

need them during the day. Enter, the

this. If you’re marrying at a venue, you should be

wedding day emergency kit. Get mini

able to depend on them to get it fixed – and perhaps

versions if you can and ask someone to

enquire if there are back-up generators when you’re

carry it or store it at the venue for you.

deciding. While you’re waiting for the power to come back on, distract your guests with something else – task

Safety pins

someone with a walk around the venue, a ‘Mr and Mrs’

Kirby grips

quiz or a good old sing-along until it’s fixed.

Double-sided tape Dental floss

I haven’t slept a wink

Mints

Come the morning of your wedding, there’s not too

Clear nail polish

much that can be done about getting more sleep, but

Superglue

there’s one thing we promise you: adrenaline will keep

Tampons

you going! Make sure you fuel yourself with a good

Paracetamol

breakfast – a combination of complex carbs, protein

Blotting paper

and some healthy fats. It might be porridge with ground

Stain-removing pen

flax, berries and nuts, avocado toast with poached eggs,

White chalk

or an omelette packed with your favourite vegetables.

Bicarbonate of soda

Have a cup of tea or coffee if you want the caffeine

Mini sewing kit

hit but don’t be tempted to drink too many and make

Hairspray

yourself jittery – water is your best friend here.

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Your Perfect Wedding on The Coast The Venue has stunning exclusivity with breathtaking views across the sea, Atlantic coast & Exmoor ... boasting bi fold doors across the full front of the building the outside it brought in ... the perfect setting for amazing photos and memories. The Venue at Sandy Cove, Berrynarbor, North Devon, EX34 9SR E: weddings@sandycove-hotel.co.uk T: 01271 882243 www.sandycove-hotel.co.uk

feature | CHILD’S PLAY

CHILD’S PLAY Ensure your young guests have fun on your wedding day with these creative ideas from the experts

Steven Prebble Photography

words Lucy Lawrence

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feature | CHILD’S PLAY

Children can add an extra special

important component,” Eve continues. “Give

but there are some easy ways to get them

dimension to a wedding – but it’s not just

children something to really capture their

all playing happily. “Giving all the children an

a matter of including their names on the

imaginations. I root my workshops in stories,

easier version of a game works, as even the

invitation. A few creative and thoughtful

each time going on a new adventure, to a

older children like to go back to basics and

plans can make all the difference in

new place, to meet new creatures. Children’s

have fun – it’s not school, after all,” says Elsie.

ensuring everyone has the best day ever!

imaginations are so strong that once you sow

“We also find that if you give the children

the seeds, they will be right there with you on

something to do like Lego, you will often find

“Cover the basics first: keep them fed,

the adventure, helping to shape and create a

the older ones take the younger ones under

keep them warm or cool, keep them busy!”

story.”

their wing and help them or show them how

advises wedding planner Hazel Parsons

to do things.”

from Out of the Ordinary Weddings

DIY activities

(outoftheordinaryweddings.com). “Happy

As well as organised workshops and activities,

If it’s an organised activity, you can utilise the

children equals happy adults, and you

you can set the children tasks to complete

older children as your assistants or leaders for

and your guests will be able to enjoy

throughout the day. You could start with a

the little ones. “If the older ones are invested,

spending time with the children at the

form of scavenger hunt, which can either be

the little ones are naturally reassured that

wedding if you have these three basics

done walking around or sat at their table –

what we’re doing is going to be good fun,”

covered.”

great for keeping them entertained during the

says Eve. “I’ll normally ask the older or more

wedding breakfast. “Give them a list of things

confident children if they can demonstrate

We’ve asked those in the know for their

to find; for example, a lady in a green dress

yoga postures or animal sounds as we work

advice when it comes to keeping your young

or a man with a cool tie,” says Elsie. “This

through a story. Even things like asking the

guests busy, entertained and having fun.

could be adapted to asking guests questions;

big kids to help the little ones collect or move

for example, the guest who’s travelled the

props acts as a way of empowering them and

A job to do

furthest and who’s known the couple the

making them feel that bit more grown up.”

There are some lovely ways to incorporate

longest.”

Get moving

children into your day so that they get a lot out of it too. This doesn’t have to be

Another fun idea is to give each child a

“As we all know, children have a lot of energy!

restricted to your own children – you can

disposable camera and get them to ‘help the

They can’t sit still for long and we need to

get all your younger guests involved in

photographer’. “You could give them a list of

lean into that,” says Eve. “I always move my

proceedings. Before the ceremony begins,

prompts or let them have free rein – either

workshops around a lot. We physically travel

consider getting the children involved in the

way they’ll enjoy using the cameras and

to different parts of the space together so

preparations (in an age-appropriate way!),

the happy couple could get some precious

we are all on a shared journey. If we turn this

says Elsie Preddy of Cornwall Childcare

memories created by their younger guests,”

journey into a treasure hunt or quest to find

(cornwallchildcare.com). “Let them help set

says Elsie. “You could also give them a blank

animals in the jungle, it becomes even more

up a small part of the reception and they will

card and envelope and ask them to create a

exciting. If we then find props, games or prizes

feel like they are doing something important

wedding card for the bride and groom – they

along our quest, it keeps the momentum up

and can tell everyone later on in the day,

could draw their favourite part of the day or

and keeps little imaginations engaged.”

which makes them feel special.”

something that reminds them of the couple.”

“Give them a role they will love or an

Getting on

a fun addition to any quieter moments of

activity, because if the children are enjoying

If you’re wondering about getting children

an afternoon, especially if you have a beach

themselves, it is fun for all involved,” agrees

who don’t know each other to play together,

or garden wedding. You can team up the

Hazel. “You could ask them all to be flag

a treasure hunt is a great icebreaker, as are

children with adults and give them fun races

bearers for the bridal entrance, be on ‘team

garden games – and Eve’s top tip is to “keep

to compete in, letting them burn off some

confetti’ – giving out the confetti to guests

it silly”. “Laughter can make even the most

energy while also staying involved in the day.

– or get them blowing bubbles during the

nervous or shy little one relax and engage,”

arrival drinks or throughout the ceremony.”

she says. “

As well as a treasure hunt, a sports day is

Kidding around Try not to worry about keeping children

Structured play

Start with a warm-up game to learn names

entertained – you might be surprised at

Once the ceremony is over, the fun really

and then a high-energy activity that allows

how little you need to do. “I find that most

begins! “Weddings are generally quite an

them to get out of their heads and free

children love a wedding – getting to see

intense, noisy, high-energy environment for

their bodies up. Utilising props that they can

cousins or family members and friends they

children so they’re likely to adopt a slightly

explore individually and as a group can really

haven’t seen for a while,” says Elsie.

frantic, sugar-fuelled energy themselves,”

help. Weaving things like colourful sensory

says Eve Somers from Ren Yoga (instagram.

scarves that become bird wings or a giant

“Go for games that they are likely to have

com/Ren_YogaUK) who runs workshops

parachute that becomes a cave into the story

played before at birthday parties and feel

that combine sensory play, storytelling, song,

or theme will help them to start collaborating

comfortable with. I use things like Grandma’s

yoga asanas (postures), breathwork, mindful

without even realising it.” You can also use

Footsteps, Musical Statues and Simon Says all

moments and joyful chaos. “A creative or

games where the children are working towards

the time. I just adapt them to suit my theme,”

active workshop offers a space for children

a shared objective. “Can they all collect the

says Eve.

to harness that energy and channel it towards

blocks to build the tower?” says Eve. “Can

creative play.” Offering a structured play

they form a chain to help each other across the

If you have a performer or live music, it’s sure

session can work well for the ‘downtime’

river?”

to keep children smiling. Just wait until the

periods of your day, like during speeches or when adults might be having welcome drinks. “I think creating a bit of magic is the most

music starts, and you can guarantee they’ll hit

Age limits

the dance floor! And as Hazel says: “Keep it

Throwing children of different ages together

fun, not too complicated!”

can sound like chaos – and it may well be! –

feature | CHILD’S PLAY

Feed me! Don’t forget about the children when it comes to food. “Young children need to eat regularly, so depending on the time of the wedding, make sure you have covered children’s mealtimes or that the parents have it covered to avoid any hanger!” says Hazel. “Make the food simple but fun. Mezze plates of kids’ snacks, mini fish and chips cones, macaroni cheese bake or a ‘high tea’ all work well.” An ice cream trike or sweet station is always a hit with both children and adults alike, which prompts another tip from Hazel. “Involve them in each part of your day but cater to the things they love too – you are all there to enjoy yourself!”

Fun house Set up a tipi or create a comfortable and quiet space where children can go and add these fail-safe books and games, as recommended by our experts. -Where’s Wally? books -Dobble

Garden games

-Lego/Duplo/Stickle Bricks

Garden games are a brilliant

-Thread for friendship bracelets

addition to a wedding if you’ve got

-Colouring books or tablecloths

outdoor space. Here are some ideas

-Top Trumps

that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Bean bag toss Hook-a-duck Giant Connect 4 Fancy dress Sack race Available from Out of the Ordinary Event Hire and Stargazey Decor Hire

iStock.com/shironosov

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feature | VENUES GUIDE | WELCOME

wed’s

VENUES GUIDE

Photography Jennifer Jane Venue Brickhouse Vineyard

Choosing a wedding venue is usually the first stop on the planning checklist. From country houses and rustic barns to bijou boltholes, wed reveals Devon’s standout settings for a wow-worthy wedding 91

feature | VENUES GUIDE | COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES

VENUES GUIDE:

COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES Live out your very own fairytale in one of Devon’s elegant country houses or majestic castles

Pynes House Believed to be the inspiration for Jane Austen’s Barton Park in ‘Sense and Sensibility’, this elegant Georgian house provides the most breathtaking location for your very own love story. Set within 37 acres of parkland in the Exe Valley, the glorious gardens hint at the immaculate interiors, where you can marry in a choice of state rooms, all bathed in natural light and exquisitely styled. For dizzying romance, take your vows before the grand doors on the entrance steps with the majestic tree-lined avenue and gardens as your backdrop, before feasting and dancing the night away beneath the sparkling chandeliers of the Ballroom or, for larger affairs, in a marquee in the grounds. Romantic details such as the Romeo and Juliet-style balcony and the myrtle bush in the rose garden, which is believed to have grown from a clipping from Queen Victoria’s bridal bouquet, add to the dreaminess, while the beautiful bedrooms make for an incredibly special place to spend the night. Rebecca Goddard Photography

pyneshouse.co.uk Total capacity: 96 for dining in the house, 130 for ceremony in the house (with dining in a marquee) Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: 12 double rooms, plus 4 rollaway beds Dog-friendly: No (couple’s dog for ceremony only)

Bickleigh Castle This is the place for a wedding rich in history. Beyond the stirring charm of the 11th century Norman castle, with its Great Hall complete with minstrels’ gallery and roaring log fire, there’s the 6th century chapel, Devon’s oldest building, and a truly enchanting setting for a blessing. The grounds are equally fairytale-worthy – the River Exe runs through the estate’s 1,000 acres of lush landscape and wooded valleys, while a cluster of cosy thatched cottage accommodation creates the feel of a wedding village. Kick-start the festivities with a Friday night feast; get married in the garden pavilion before dancing under the stars in the expansive grounds, with fireworks shimmering on the river. The next day, it’s all too easy to continue the festivities with a tasty brunch and fun on the croquet lawn and tennis court. bickleighcastle.com Total capacity: 120 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 40 in 18 bedrooms Dog-friendly: On request

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COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES

Rockbeare Manor A ceremony on a pretty outdoor terrace flanked by flower-filled parkland ticks the box for sheer off-the-scale romance – but that’s only part of the dreamy appeal of Rockbeare Manor. Nestled in the countryside near Exeter, the Grade I listed Regency house is light, elegant and stylish yet relaxed, its full-length windows framing 100 acres of glorious parkland dotted with mature trees. Available on an exclusiveuse basis, indoor ceremonies take place beneath the twinkling chandelier of the Dining Room, while the light-filled Ballroom hosts sumptuous feasts and revelry for up to 160 guests. There’s also a beautiful balconied Bridal Drawing Room for the preparations, a Billiard Room and 13 plush bedrooms with sink-into-me bathtubs and far-reaching views across Dartmoor. rockbearemanor.co.uk Total capacity: 160 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 30, plus 5 rollaway beds for children Dog-friendly: On request (couple’s dog is allowed for ceremony/reception but not overnight)

Kingston Estate A hidden gem nestled deep in the South Hams countryside near Totnes, Kingston Estate is luxurious, relaxed and informal, where couples and guests are encouraged to make the 35 acres their home for the duration of their stay. Built in 1735, the Georgian mansion house boasts high ceilings, marble fireplaces, original wall paintings and a vaulted basement where you can party until the early hours. The grounds include two stunning southfacing walled gardens: one perfect for your ceremony and one for eating al fresco-style.There is also a huge party yurt, a cool street food shed, a rustic ceremony barn with chic chandeliers, a courtyard cocktail bar for a festival vibe along with a Hayloft Barn big enough for 200 guests with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the gardens and surrounding countryside. The accommodation on-site has been thoughtfully Harry Michael Photography

renovated with tasteful interiors, original features and a meticulous attention to detail. With its Georgian splendour, the décor is classic, the food and drinks are eclectic and, by the evening, it transforms itself into a super-cool venue hidden deep in the countryside. Whether you want a black-tie event, a festival feel or a rustic wedding, they can offer it all as every one of their events are bespoke. The Kingston Estate ticks all the boxes for couples looking for a stunning exclusive-use venue that can provide first-class accommodation along with top-notch service for food and drink. kingston-estate.co.uk

Luna Weddings

Virginia Photography

Total capacity: 250 & 400 with a marquee Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 100 Dog-friendly: Yes

feature | VENUES GUIDE | COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES

Coombe Trenchard A stunning Arts & Crafts country house estate with restored Edwardian gardens and acres of inspiring grounds, this one-of-a-kind venue will sweep you away with its idyllic west Devon location, and time-honoured space in which to create a beautiful English country wedding. Specialising in Petite and Beautiful weddings for up to 40 people, inclusive of the newlyweds, Coombe Trenchard weddings are unique, tailored and very special. Brimming with beauty and charm, the exclusive-use venue offers a range of spaces and glorious grounds with breathtaking Dartmoor views as well as a personal in-house coordination service. There are numerous locations for ceremonies indoors and out before the celebrations unfold in the elegant and versatile reception areas. What’s more, proprietor Sarah Marsh grows her own flowers in the venue’s cutting garden for each couple. Together with the elegant bridal suite and bijou stable bar, this gem of a venue will steal the hearts of engaged couples from far and wide. coombetrenchard.co.uk Total capacity: 40 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 12 Dog-friendly: Yes

Hareston Manor Hareston Manor exudes timeless romance, from the tree-lined drive and sweeping rural panoramas to the 14th century Jacobean house nestling amongst wooded hills and wildflowers in the South Hams. Combining a sense of seclusion with a relaxed, back-tonature feel, the venue is an eco haven with sustainability at the core of its ethos. Offering 12 weddings per year, the venue’s exclusive bespoke weddings will ensure every detail is perfect, whether you choose an elopement or celebration for 150 guests. Choose from the romance of a ceremony in the picturesque grounds, the candlelit St Martin’s chapel, which dates back to 1379, or the manor entrance, immersed in the beauty of the timehonoured walls and mullion windows, roses and wildflowers. Celebrate in a marquee or tipi before retiring to a luxurious yurt for a wedding night beneath the stars. What’s more, there’s an array of options – from gourmet barbecue evening food and fireworks to prewedding clay pigeon shooting – to ensure your wedding is as individual as it is beautiful. harestonwedding.co.uk Total capacity: 150 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: TBC, please enquire directly for up-to-date information Dog-friendly: No

Huntsham Court Imagine a private, award-winning estate in the rolling Devon countryside as the romantic backdrop to your big day. Nestled on the border of Exmoor National Park, Huntsham Court presents a sublime location in which to wed. The exclusive-use venue accommodates up to 100 guests within 42 luxury, stylish bedrooms, allowing you to fully relax whilst making the most of precious time with loved ones. Whatever style of wedding you envision, Huntsham can make it a soul-stirring reality. With flexibility and freedom at its heart, be ready to let your creativity flow! There are plenty of spaces indoors and out to stage a romantic ceremony: you might choose the elegant dovecote in the Victorian gardens, the Hidden Garden with its wildflower borders and boho tipi or one of the stunning stately rooms, such as the Great Hall. From formal and fancy to casual and cosy, throw the house party of dreams in this extraordinarily beautiful setting.

Rockrose Photography

huntshamcourt.co.uk

94 Devon

Total capacity: 130 day, up to 150 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 100 Dog-friendly: Yes

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Everything about Rockbeare Manor is devoted to you. From the glorious setting and beautifully appointed interiors to the welcoming team, every aspect of this exquisite, exclusive use Regency country house is dedicated to delivering the highest possible level of service - because we never forget, it’s the little things that make a big diﬀerence. Rockbeare Manor, Nr Exeter, Devon, EX5 2FE Telephone: 01392 797444 Rockbeare Manor, Nr Exeter, Devon, EX5 2FE www.rockbearemanor.co.uk

www.rockbearemanor.co.uk @rockbeare_manor_

feature | VENUES GUIDE | INTIMATE & UNIQUE

VENUES GUIDE:

INTIMATE & UNIQUE Embrace a small wedding packed with personality at one of these gorgeous spots

ElsieLove Photography

Brickhouse Vineyard Brickhouse Vineyard is a unique and exclusive vineyard wedding venue nestled in Exeter, Devon. Tucked away in the picturesque South Devon hills, the unique barn has everything you could ever desire for a truly unforgettable wedding day. Your friends and relatives are bound to fall in love with its understated elegance and stunning surroundings. Choose from intimate elopements with just the ‘Two of You’ and up to eight guests, micro-weddings designed for up to 40 of your family and friends and larger celebrations in the barn, with capacity for up to 60 guests for your ceremony and wedding breakfast, followed by 100 guests for the evening party. You will have exclusive use of this fabulous venue as you celebrate saying ‘I do’. The venue hire price includes support with

landscaped terrace, vineyard, grounds and parking for up to 20 cars. brickhousevineyard.co.uk

ElsieLove Photography

have exclusive use of the Round House and the barn with the

ElsieLove Photography

wedding planning and on-the-day coordination. You will also

Total capacity: 60 day, 100 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: No Dog-friendly: Yes

Tree Top Escape Could there be anything more romantic than your very own tree-top hideaway, taking your vows overlooking rolling hills, surrounded by nature with the gentle breeze rustling through the leaves? Tucked away on a private North Devon estate, Tree Top Escape offers the most magical of settings to wed. Beyond the jaw-dropping views of the valley, there’s a large lounge, Italian designer kitchen, freestanding copper bath and state-of-the-art technology. Celebrate with up to 14 of your nearest and dearest in the luxe, light and luxurious setting, sink into the private hot tub on the terrace beneath the stars, and enjoy a delicious dinner cooked over live flames by your personal chef in the Grill-Haus, a fresh-from-a-fairytale cabin in the woods. Beautiful, tranquil and unique, it’s the dream location for back-to-nature nuptials without skimping on luxury. treetopescape.co.uk Total capacity: 16 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: 2 en-suite bedrooms Dog-friendly: Yes

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INTIMATE & UNIQUE Freeformimages Photography

Little Silver House Set amidst sprawling countryside overlooking the River Taw in the picture-postcard village of High Bickington, Little Silver House offers seclusion, rural panoramas and tangible romance. Couples can exchange vows in the spring-fed grotto by the pond or the blue shepherd’s hut, framed by apple blossom in the spring. Ceremonies may also take place in the atrium, on the lawn before far-reaching views across rolling meadows or on the veranda of the beautiful Victorian house. A cluster of shepherd’s huts can be found in a landscaped orchard; each comes with a private hot tub and dedicated golf buggy, providing a picturesque setting for your closest friends and family to extend their downtime with you. Newlyweds can enjoy three nights in the spacious annexe of the Little Silver Nugget, where breathtaking views, an award-winning private woodland hot tub and country-cool interiors ensure a dreamily memorable way to commence married life. littlesilverweddings.com Total capacity: 12 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 10 Dog-friendly: No, except for assistance dogs

St Nicholas Priory A jewel in the heart of Exeter, this 900-year-old priory turned Tudor home is rich in historic charm and romance. Original features captivate at every turn, from the medieval kitchen and Tudor bed chamber to the 15th century arch-braced timber roof and stunning stained glass windows. Three stirringly beautiful settings are licensed for intimate ceremonies with up to 45 in attendance. Absorb the palpable atmosphere of this Emma Barrow

extraordinary building as you take your vows and venture out for a lovedup stroll in the pretty grounds; then gather with your nearest and dearest for a wedding feast to remember. nicholaspriory.com Total capacity: 45 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: No Dog-friendly: By arrangement

The Lamb Inn at Sandford This village pub is bursting with charm. Nestled amongst the Tudor cobbles of the chocolate-box village of Sandford, the sense of easy charm and rich character is palpable in the 16th century coaching house, from its low ceilings and crackling log fires to its sink-intome sofas and sheltered garden. Complete with an award-winning restaurant and luxurious boutique-style accommodation, it is a cosy and memorable setting for an intimate wedding, where the laidback draw of a country celebration meets fine food and luxe touches. Feast on locally sourced Devon flavours and a huge array of party-starting drinks, as the night draws to a close, bed down in one of the eight spacious and luxurious bedrooms or suites, most with underfloor heating and king-size beds.

Yeti Photography

lambinnsandford.co.uk Total capacity: 40 day, 75 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: 7 rooms and 1 garden suite Dog-friendly: Yes

feature | VENUES | RURAL TREASURES

VENUES GUIDE:

RURAL TREASURES Throw your dream wedding in a charm-packed setting in the Devon countryside

Upton Barn & Walled Garden Comprising a cluster of lovingly restored traditional buildings and a walled garden, this exclusive-use venue offers a private, picturesque and peaceful setting in rural Cullompton. Savour the stylish spa-like delights of The Paddock during your wedding morning. Marry in the atmospheric Cider Barn, a restored traditional cob barn with oak trusses and floor-toceiling windows, or glide down the lavender-lined aisle of the walled garden and exchange vows beneath the handcrafted oak arbour. Stylishly blending rustic character with modern accents, the Stable Barn is a stunning space for receptions for up to 156, with warm timbers, striking lighting and glorious paddock views, while the Press Bar is the place to stop for signature cocktails by the wood-burner. Don’t forget to head outdoors at nightfall when a carnival of festoon lights and firepits add to the magic of this stellar spot. uptonbarn.com [Photography Kamila Nowak, Tara Statton]

Total capacity: 156 day, 200 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 8 Dog-friendly: No

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RURAL TREASURES

The Great Barn This breathtaking setting lives up to its name both in scale and wow factor. Tucked away in an incredibly beautiful corner of Devon amidst 120 acres of Friesian-filled fields and thatched cottages, The Great Barn combines the magnificent 15th century Great Barn itself, the charming West Mark Shaw

Barn - a perfect break-out space for wet-weather drinks and children’s entertainment - glorious gardens and elegant cottage accommodation for up to 30. Complete with exclusive-use hire, you can relax with your guests in complete seclusion in this idyllic private estate. Marry beneath the dramatic vaulted ceiling of the barn or the picture-perfect St John the Baptist church on the doorstep. For spine-tingling romance, enter the secret walled garden through the ancient arched gate and exchange vows beneath the arbour amidst a carnival of roses and lavender.

Freeformimages Photography

thegreatbarndevon.co.uk Total capacity: 250 ceremony, 198 wedding breakfast Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 30 Dog-friendly: Yes Kevin Mullin Photography

Nova Wedding Photography

Richard Starr Photography

Hawke Barn Prepare to be enchanted by the tranquillity and far-reaching views across miles of rolling hills as you turn down the private drive to Hawke Barn. The 16th century former threshing barn sits amidst 250 acres in mid-Devon, close to the hamlet of Stoodleigh, offering historic charm and stirring rural beauty in abundance. The recently renovated barn boasts high open-vaulted ceilings and contemporary full-height windows with heavy oak beams, exposed stonework and flagstone floors. Bathed in natural light, the timeless and natural aesthetic brings a blank canvas for you to make your mark on your special day, whether you envision al fresco celebrations during the

Sam Gibson Photography

warmer months or cosy festivities warmed by the wood-burning stove in the winter. With charm-filled stables on-site, you might even bring your pony along to be stabled in their own private courtyard. The venue also offers Devonian anvil blessings for couples who marry at Hawke Barn. Luxurious accommodation in the farmhouse and two 17th century barn conversions, together with camping options, means your friends and family can extend their stay in this rural idyll. hawkebarnvenue.co.uk Total capacity: 60 day, 100 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 19 Dog-friendly: Yes

feature | VENUES GUIDE | RURAL TREASURES

The Oak Barn Fall for the rural dream at The Oak Barn, where three converted barns and an ancient cob Devon farmhouse sit amidst acres of quintessentially English countryside. We’re talking meadows dotted with hay bales, undulating hills and a beautiful country church right next door. The stunning Oak Barn is a blank canvas for your dream decor. The smaller Acorn Barn, a thatched 18th century barn is perfect for more intimate ceremonies and has additional accommodation. The Linhay, a converted Edwardian dairy, offers further accommodation as well as a beautifully equipped space for bridal preparations. And the gardens beg for al fresco celebrations around the firepit, beneath leafy trees and skies speckled with stars. theoakbarn.co.uk Total capacity: 90 day, up to 125 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 29

Katy Jones Photography

Dog-friendly: No

Will Dolphin Photography

Bovey Castle From the moment you weave through the beautifully landscaped grounds and set foot inside the elegant and charm-filled climes of the hotel, Bovey Castle takes your breath away. Set amidst 275 acres of idyllic countryside, the luxury hotel prides itself on its sumptuous interiors, quality service and top-notch facilities, making for a wedding that redefines the wow factor. Taking a flexible approach, the venue hosts weddings of all scales; whether you’re planning an elopement, intimate celebration or grand gathering for up to 120 guests, there’s a choice of settings inside and out to take your vows – along with a host of celebratory spaces – to ensure a tailor-made wedding of the highest calibre. You might choose to extend the festivities in this special spot, enjoying the 18-hole championship golf course, cider and sloe gin workshops, off-road driving experiences and clay pigeon shooting or simply unwinding in the Elan Spa.

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: 60 rooms, 22 lodges Dog-friendly: Yes

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Snapdragon Photography

Total capacity: 120 day, more for the evening

Luna Wedding Photography

boveycastle.com

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Romantic Weddings at Tree Top Escape! Unique Weddings - Intimate and Exclusive with up to 14 guests – Luxury – Mini Moon Included – Fine Dining in The Nest – The Grill-Haus – Vintage Afternoon Teas – Stunning Natural Scenery – Stress Free Award Winning Customer Service

www.treetopescape.co.uk 01769 629069

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feature | VENUES GUIDE | RURAL TREASURES

Harefield Barn Located amidst rolling hills and wildflower meadows, Harefield Barn offers the beauty and tranquillity of a country wedding with the convenience of being just a 10-minute drive from Exeter. A light, airy and versatile backdrop for a personalitypacked wedding, the rural gem has a full ceremonies license with the Clock House making a dreamlike option for al fresco vows – and no less than five churches within a short drive. An extended hire period also gives you plenty of time to prepare for the big day. Characterful features such as exposed beams and a wood-burning stove meet a blank canvas aesthetic, lofty ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows framing Helen Court Photography

vistas across the ever-changing landscape. Relax with your guests in the cosy bar, steal away to the surrounding cornfields for photos against a golden sunset, and dance the night away on the terrace beneath a starlit sky. harefieldbarn.co.uk Total capacity: 200 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: No

Memories and Milestones Photography

Zac Gibson Wedding Photography & Film

Amy Sampson Photography

Dog-friendly: Yes

Hannah Wilde Photography

Badgers Holt Hidden in the heart of Dartmoor, Badgers Holt is ideally located for couples seeking a relaxed and wildly romantic wedding. The River Dart meanders through the grounds of the former fishing lodge, which houses a series of versatile, rustic spaces for celebrations, all perfect for styling with your own unique twist. Take your vows in the blank canvas Garden Room or Banquet Fireside Room – complete with a roaring wood burner – or even in the garden bandstand on the water’s edge. Venture onto the ancient Tor-dotted moorland for dramatic photos and together-time before returning for festoon lit celebrations and firepit gatherings on the riverbank and sleeping beneath the stars in a Lotus Belle Tent or cosy apartment. badgersholtweddings.co.uk Total capacity: 100 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 24 in 4 apartments and bridal suite Dog-friendly: Yes

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feature | VENUES GUIDE | RURAL TREASURES

Wooladon Estate Situated on the Devon and Cornwall border, where the banks of the River Tamar and River Lyd meet 500 acres of enchanting woodland, lakes and rolling meadows, the setting of Wooladon Estate could not be more picturesque. The private estate offers a five-star country residence, together with a cluster of beautiful buildings, to host a wedding steeped in wild romance. From vows in the garden or country ceremony room to festivities in the garden suite and photographs against the lake, the willow tree and woodland, expect seclusion, versatile celebration spaces and breathtaking views at every turn. The luxurious Georgian house lies at its heart with its romantic bridal suite, while a cluster of barn conversion cottages add to the accommodation options, some with private gardens, hot tubs and valley

Rabbit House Studio Photography

views. With catering being a speciality, you can look forward to a bespoke menu using the freshest produce grown and sourced from the estate. wooladonestate.co.uk Total capacity: 120 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 34 Dog-friendly: Yes

Sarah Jayne Photography

Deer Farm Tipi Weddings Located 25 minutes from Exeter and 15 minutes from Tiverton, East Dunster Farm is as picturesque as it is private. Set on the hillside of the family-run deer farm, a trio of spectacular off-white Nordic tipis makes a blank canvas setting for bespoke wedding celebrations with views across miles of rolling hills. The tipis come fully furnished complete with a handcrafted wooden bar; bedecked in festoon lighting, fairy lights and a lantern-lit walkway, you’re assured a magical ambiance as night falls. Luxury accommodation with large, light living spaces, private gardens and hot tubs for 16 people on-site (or more for an additional cost) is included, along with optional camping. Surrounded by green hills and grazing deer and stags, imagine soaking up the romance of your brilliantly personal tipi wedding in this tucked-away corner of Devon. Heaven. deerfarmtipiweddings.co.uk Total capacity: 150 Civil ceremonies licence: In application Guest accommodation: for 40 plus space for camping Dog-friendly: Yes

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RURAL TREASURES

QUESTIONS TO ASK A WEDDING VENUE Before you fall for the first venue you see, get clued up on these must-ask questions from wedding planner, Jenny Granlund of Jenny Wren Weddings & Events 1. What is the capacity for a ceremony

and reception?

2. Does the venue have a ceremony licence? 3. What ceremony locations are there,

both inside and outside?

Higher Holcombe A dream setting in the heart of the Devon countryside, where wildflower meadows meet

4. Is the venue exclusive use?

maturing woodland, Higher Holcombe makes a gloriously green canvas for a relaxed

5. What is the availability like?

cluster of character-filled buildings, from the barn with exposed beams and floor-to-ceiling

wedding bursting with style, atmosphere and personality. The rural retreat comprises a

6. What is included in the price?

windows, to the farmhouse and Hobbit House, a quirky-cool honeymoon hideaway.

7. Will room turnarounds need to take place? If

immersed in nature, hold your ceremony in the willow ‘cathedral’ or the secluded silver

so, who will take care of this?

8. Are there any break-out rooms away from

the party for older guests or babies?

9. Will there be a wedding coordinator on-site

on the wedding day? What will they be taking care of?

There are also shepherd’s huts, giant Lotus Belle tents and overflow camping. For vows birch ‘church’ before feasting and taking your first dance in this magical woodland setting. higherholcombe.co.uk Total capacity: 80 day, 100 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 40 Dog-friendly: Yes

10. Is furniture provided? 11. Is tableware provided? 12. Can you bring in your own suppliers

and catering company?

13. Are toilets provided? 14. What time do the licences for music and

alcohol run until?

15. Are there restrictions concerning music? 16. Is there the option to provide your own

alcohol? Do they charge corkage?

17. What day and time can you have

access from?

18. Is there accommodation on-site or close by?

Woodbury Park

19. Are fireworks allowed?

This country venue has it all: acres of picturesque scenery, a grand-scale reception space

20. Is confetti allowed?

buggy! Tie the knot in The Oaks, a charming space with exposed beams and large windows

21. Are firepits allowed? 22. Are there dos and don’ts concerning

decoration of the venue?

23. What time does the hire end? 24. Who does the clean-up afterwards? 25. Who’s responsible for taking away

the recycling and rubbish?

for up to 220 guests, plentiful four-star accommodation, and even use of the wedding golf framing views across the countryside, or the Atrium, a grand setting with chandeliers, mood lighting and stunning views. Why not make a holiday of it and gather your loved ones in this gorgeous part of Devon for trips to the nearby south coast with its pretty beaches and wild cliffs, before returning to the extensive modern facilities including a state-of-theart gym, pool and Aura Spa. woodburypark.co.uk Total capacity: 250 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: 54 rooms Dog-friendly: No

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feature | VENUES GUIDE | COASTAL & WATERSIDE

VENUES GUIDE:

COASTAL & WATERSIDE From waterside retreats to seriously stylish celebration spaces, a wedding by the sea offers irresistible romance

Margo R Photography

Pier One Plymouth Located in a prime position on Plymouth Hoe with sweeping views across the sea, Pier One allows you to marry in style within touching distance of the water. With the bustle of Plymouth on the doorstep, the contemporary venue offers privacy, stylish interiors and a stunning balcony for a perfectly picturesque seaside wedding. Mesmerising views of the sea fill the floor-to-ceiling windows, while the balcony makes a sublime spot to take your vows while basking in the sea air. Complete with delicious food and a brilliantly stocked bar, you’re assured a wedding feast and evening reception to remember. pieroneplymouth.co.uk Total capacity: 60 ceremony, 100 evening reception Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: No Dog-friendly: Yes Margo R Photography

Clare Kinchin Photography

Gara Rock Hotel Perched on a secluded clifftop with out of this world views across the South Devon coastline, Gara Rock Hotel is a stunning spot where rustic-chic interiors meet comforts such as a spa, heated pools, restaurant and snug bedrooms. A sublime blend of luxury and scenery, it makes an irresistibly romantic setting for a wedding, whether you’re dreaming of a sun-drenched summer celebration or a wildly romantic affair in the depths of winter. Exchange vows before panoramic ocean views before a delectable wedding breakfast tailored to your tastes. The celebrations will unfold as you wish, whether that’s cocktails by the pool, loved-up strolls along the shoreline or moonlit dancing on the terrace. gararock.com Total capacity: Exclusive Use: 50-120 (daytime and evening) Secret Suite: 2-24 (daytime and evening) Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: as above for the Exclusive Use and Secret Suite weddings Dog-friendly: Yes

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The Venue at Sandy Cove Perched high on the cliffs of North Devon, The Venue at Sandy Cove boasts to-die-for views across the Atlantic, the rugged coastline and heights of Exmoor. A licensed gazebo for vows and a glass-wrapped platform jutting out from the cliffs means you can make the most of the spectacular location, while the purpose-built and light-filled celebration space boasts bi-fold doors, perfect for bringing the outside in during the warmer months or framing the white-tipped waves in winter. State-of-the-art lighting heightens the magic while the hotel’s 37 rooms – some with private balconies and deep bathtubs – will allow plenty of your guests to stay on and savour the sea air and rolling waves in luxury. sandycove-hotel.co.uk Total capacity: 150 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: 37 rooms, with 2 people per room Dog-friendly: Yes

Polhawn Fort Nestled in a tucked-away corner of the Rame Peninsula with soul-stirring sea views, Polhawn Fort really is the stuff of dreams. The Napoleonic Fort sits on a clifftop with rolling lawns and wildflower-filled gardens slipping down to the sea and a private beach for loved up wanders at the water’s edge. Available for two, three or four day weddings, take your vows beneath the vaulted ceilings and twinkling lights of the grand Napoleonic hall or head outside for a sun-kissed garden ceremony in the summerhouse. Whether you’re dreaming of frolics on the sands and sundowners on the Mediterraneaninspired roof terrace or cosy candlelit celebrations with the waves crashing at the shore below, this captivating exclusive-use venue offers an extraordinary setting to begin First Light Wedding Photography

married life. polhawnfort.com Total capacity: 100 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: for 16 Dog-friendly: Yes

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feature | VENUES GUIDE | TENTS & TIPIS

VENUES GUIDE:

TENTS & TIPIS Dreaming of a so-you wedding under canvas? Be inspired by these fabulous outdoor wedding specialists

Tipi Spaces Tipi Spaces’ ivory white canvas Nordic tipis provide a versatile and truly enchanting blank canvas. Manufactured in Sweden, each tipi is designed to offer maximum durability and protection from the elements to give a fabulously flexible solution for any setting or style of event. Their striking structure ensures a wow-worthy centrepiece, while inside, the conical shape sculpts a more intimate space for your celebrations. What’s Venetia Norrington Photography

more, boasting almost 50 years combined experience of project and luxury event management, the team is enthusiastically primed to achieve your vision by attending to all the details. tipispaces.co.uk

World Inspired Tents The multi-award-winning World Inspired Tents has been hiring their spectacular giant Nordic tipis across the South-west for over 14 years. Accommodating between 50 and 1000 guests, the clever interlinking design of the tipis allows for every type of celebration, ensuring the wow factor is in full and fabulous force for intimate garden parties through to sprawling festivalstyle weddings. In addition, the team can supply everything from furnishings, lighting, bars, staging, and covered walkways, catering tents, festoons and oak doors. All you have to do is pick the place and watch as the magic unfolds. worldinspiredtents.co.uk

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Rob Tibbles Photography

dance floors and firepits to matted

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

H OU S E A romantic country house in the beautiful Exe Valley, just three miles from Exeter. The perfect year-round retreat for you to celebrate your perfect day.

info@pyneshouse.co.uk

www.pyneshouse.co.uk

01392 431 403

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feature | JUST THE TWO OF US

JUST THE TWO OF US Love the idea of a small and super special wedding? Be inspired by our ultimate guide to elopements words Hannah May

Thomas Frost

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JUST THE TWO OF US

The word ‘elopement’ can conjure all kinds

reiterates Izzy Blacher at Treseren (treseren.co.uk),

of images. In years gone by, it was most often

which specialises in elopement and micro weddings.

associated with illicit weddings between young

“Couples often choose to include friends and family

lovers or pregnant brides and their beaus, rushed

in the run-up to the day, but if keeping it private feels

and without approval.

right for you, then that’s OK too!”

Today, however, elopement (and micro) weddings are

It is a common misconception that elopement

fast becoming one of the most popular and fashionable

weddings can feel a little rushed, given there aren’t

ways to tie the knot. With the traditional wedding

hordes of guests to speak to and speeches to hear.

rulebook well and truly torn up in favour of couples

“At Treseren, elopement weddings include a two-

writing their own love story, elopements now signify

night stay with exclusive use of your very own country

the ultimate in freedom and creativity – the chance to

house, so that you can really relax and enjoy your

escape and wed wherever and whenever you want.

special time together,” says Izzy.

And while traditionally elopements involved only the couple, when we talk about elopements now, they often

And the spoils don’t stop there. “You can add personal

include a handful of guests.

touches into your timeline – from heading off for a surf at your favourite beach in the morning to enjoying a

Verity Westcott

Simply picture your dream wedding scenario and plan a

relaxing massage. We love seeing the unique choices

smaller day to suit. You needn’t abscond or ditch your

that couples make and we’re continually surprised

guest list entirely – the idea is to focus on just the two

and delighted at the different weddings we’re

of you and then decide what ‘extra’ elements you’d

honoured to host.”

personally like to add, in keeping with your place, season, budget, theme, time constraints and mood.

“If your dogs are super important then get them involved. If you’ve always fancied zipwiring, then throw

“I love elopements!” enthuses wedding planner and

that into the mix!” says Rebecca, encouraging couples

stylist, Sophie Walker from The Little Details by

to tailor a distinctive day to their every whim.

Sophie (thelittledetailsbysophie.com). “They’re such a beautiful way for the couple to show their love to

A wedding that incorporates your favourite things to

each other without having to please anyone else.”

do at a place – and pace – hand-picked by you is at the core of elopements, allowing couples to design an

Events and wedding producer Rebecca Green from

utterly bespoke day that reflects all their loves during

Rebel & Anchor (rebelandanchor.co.uk) fervently

one ultra-personal celebration.

agrees. “The beauty of elopements is that you don’t have to worry about what anyone else thinks!” she

Where?

says. “Think about your favourite location, experience

One of the main draws of an elopement is the

or time of year and start from there.”

opportunity to get married (almost) anywhere you want. Whether you’ve hosted a legal ceremony and

Ellen Sear

A wedding day that is well and truly about you?

wish to elope for a private wedding and minimoon

There’s little more that you need to know. But for

elsewhere or are planning a micro wedding with a

those keen on discovering more, we’ve compiled

dozen friends and family members at your favourite

this mini guide on elopements to help.

place, the possibilities are endless.

What?

From a clifftop ceremony to a sand-between-the-toes

An elopement essentially involves a couple getting

party for two, elopements come into their element

married alone or with a very small number of guests.

with regards to the venue. You may wish to utter your

Unlike traditional weddings that often tend to follow a

vows in your garden or on a beach, in a registry office

loose format (namely because they involve more than

or a retreat; the trick is to follow your heart – then

a handful of other people), there’s no modern-day

allow it to sing!

blueprint for elopements. The only stipulation to make a marriage legal in the UK is to have two witnesses,

When?

making the smallest legitimately viable wedding a party

The same goes for the wedding date. Mid-week or

of five (the couple, their witnesses and the celebrant).

weekend, summer or winter – it doesn’t really matter as you won’t be asking people to take time off work

Once you’ve given notice – and waited the pre-

or travel to be there (or have to worry about their

requisite 28 days – you’re at liberty to plan and

individual needs), so pick a date during your favourite

conduct your wedding exactly as you please (within

season and plan from there.

12 months of giving notice), since there will only be a few, if any, other people to factor into the equation.

Envision exchanging hand-written vows on the water’s

Of course, you may wish to elope after or as part of a

edge in late summer, organising a private New Year’s

humanist or civil ceremony/partnership, which offers

Eve party at a plush hotel, hosting a wild ceremony

even greater scope for personalisation.

in a bluebell wood during springtime or sequestering yourselves away to a remote venue for a few blissful

“Whilst traditionally, eloping referred to a couple

days of peace and relaxation.

Ellen Sear

‘running away’ and getting married in secrecy, now it is simply a great way to say ‘I do’ in the exact way

And don’t forget about other places you can

you want, with no pressures to put on a big show,”

incorporate into your elopement, from pre-wedding

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feature | JUST THE TWO OF US

gatherings (for you and loved ones) to honeymoon destinations and photo shoot venues – both engagement and on the day. “There are amazing photographers out there, including Thomas Frost and Verity Westcott, who love a good elopement,” says Rebecca about the importance of finding suppliers that are best suited and equipped to accommodate elopements. “They know the most dramatic locations to whisk you away to get beautiful shots. Make sure you give them the sense of who you are as a couple and what vibe you love, and they will help you get the memories to cherish forever.”

How? Though elopements, by their reduced-size nature, tend to be less Thomas Frost

expensive than larger events, there will be a number of costs involved – so always start and stick with a budget. After whittling down your venue and date to within your requirements and budget, you’ll then want to think about the look and feel of your wedding. From the photography and dress code to the flowers and food – pared-back or maximalist – the choice is entirely yours. “Styling can be very tailored to both of you as a couple, so do still consider flowers and the nice little touches,” says Rebecca. “In terms of suppliers, try to meet them before the day itself as they will become your support network and they’ll have your best interests at heart.” Create a series of special dining or entertainment events, such as a romantic drinks reception with a harpist or an evening supper at a nearby jazz club. “Catering can be super fun to organise, from grazing picnics on a beach or clifftop to a seven-course tasting menu by a highly rated chef,” says Rebecca. “It’s also lovely to consider the whole day: breakfast on the beach, lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant and the golden arches for that fun evening soaker snack. One of our clients was a sailor, so for their evening meal they had a three-course meal on the beautiful Blue River Table, a 36ft traditional Cornish fishing boat.”

Katie Goff

Sophie relishes the styling aspect of elopements. “You can go all-out because you genuinely don’t have ‘what will they think?’ in the back of your head,” she says. “If you want a Moroccan vibe and to sit on the floor, you can – you don’t have to worry about your great-aunt getting up! Your aisle can be completely unique, as you don’t need to worry about chairs for guests, and stunning backdrops and unique florals are also a must.” With elopements also comes the opportunity to create a beautiful ceremony. “You can share words without the embarrassment or judgement of anyone else listening, and if you want that outside ceremony and it’s pouring down, does it really matter?” she continues. “You’re the only ones that have to worry about it. It’s an amazing way of exploring where you’re eloping and taking time out as a couple.” She also suggests hosting an after-party to celebrate with friends and family in the knowledge that you’ve achieved your dream wedding in advance, exactly how you always wanted it. “If you want a party when you get home, then do so, but at least your ceremony and your marriage are yours to share as a pair.” “Have a reveal party planned when you get home, to celebrate with friends and family, show them the images and share your experience” agrees Rebecca. “It can be great to have had your own day on your own terms, but it’s lovely to be able to share it too. And make sure you tell the nearest and dearest before anyone else. In my experience, most people are happy for you, but parents and best friends will want to hear it from you directly rather than social media.” Simply put, make your plans, share your plans (if you want to!) – and then enact your plans to suit yourselves for an elopement planned and executed with the greatest of ease, love and joy.

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ELOPE WITH HOPE The experts share their top tips for a successful elopement wedding Find local suppliers. Book people who you really get along with, as they’re the ones you’re going to be spending the day with. They will also know all the secret spots! Sophie Put your needs first. This is one of the main reasons you chose to elope in the first place! Rebecca It’s about you. Get rid of the “what will Mum and Dad think?” from your brain; they will likely just be genuinely happy you’ve married your love. Sophie Wear what you want! Go full bridal if you want to, go sequinned jumpsuit, or dress comfortably – whatever you want! Do really let your style shine through; you don’t need 100 people to make you feel amazing. Rebecca Yes, book the cake. Even if it’s just for the two of you, you can always have it as a midnight feast! Sophie Whatever the weather. Don’t worry about the rain – your photos will look stunning and your experience will be incredible, whether it’s sunny or rainy. Sophie Visit wedmagazine.co.uk/directory for Devon’s finest elopement venues

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White out

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OUT OF THE ORDINARY WEDDINGS AT GARA ROCK

Tucked away at the end of winding rural lanes in South Devon

gararock.com

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feature | PETITE AND PERFECT

petite and perfect We meet four couples who eloped to a beautiful corner of Devon to say “I do” The popularity of intimate weddings shows no sign of waning – and the rolling countryside, craggy moorland and glistening coastline of Devon sets the scene for an oh-so special elopement. Here, four couples share the stories of their petite weddings…

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PETITE AND PERFECT

Leanne and Stuart married in the idyllic rural setting of Brickhouse Vineyard What made you choose an elopement? “We wanted to be more comfortable in the moment and not the centre of attention in front of a big crowd; the idea of an elopement always appealed to us as a more romantic and intimate ceremony,” explains Leanne. “We liked the freedom that it granted us to tailor-make the day more to our style. We wanted to share our day with a select few guests, rather than worrying about entertaining a larger group. We also liked that we didn’t have to stick with tradition and decided to have a mini champagne tower instead of a cake.”

What drew you to Brickhouse Vineyard? “The whole aesthetic was perfect and, as soon as we viewed the location, we knew we wanted to have our celebration there. From the moment we arrived, we felt tucked away in our own little corner of the countryside. The team were so welcoming and professional that we barely had any stress and were just excited for the day. Most couples have to prepare for the unpredictable British weather; however, we felt Brickhouse Vineyard would be beautiful in all weathers, all year round. We actually liked the idea of rain and thought it would make for a magical setting. The roundhouse is full of character and is a beautiful setting to create the backdrop of your choice for your ceremony. We chose to keep it light and modern, adding natural fabric runners for texture and using fabric drapes to soften the beams, which created a romantic backdrop.”

How did the day pan out? “It was pretty perfect – even the things that didn’t go to plan seemed to fall into place with very little, if any, stress. The smaller numbers of an elopement, when compared with a wedding, make it a lot easier to roll with the punches when something inevitably doesn’t go to plan. The morning started with a torrential downpour, only to completely stop as Stuart arrived, giving us three hours of beautiful weather to enjoy the vineyard’s outdoor terraced space. It then rained just as we were leaving, as if the rain paused just for us! Turning up almost an hour late added some tense excitement to the day! My best friend had organised a Ferrari for me to arrive in, but due to a misdirection with the venue’s postcode, a few wrong turns were taken, leading to the driver having to navigate some very bumpy country lanes trying to find his way back to the correct road. All the while, Stuart was standing patiently at the altar with his son, constantly checking his watch and watching the venue gates like a hawk – only for me to finally arrive and then decide I needed a wee, just to make him wait that little while longer!”

What stood out for you? “Our choice of music for walking down the aisle was Come Away With Me by Norah Jones, which I picked because I’ve always enjoyed painting along to it on an overcast, moody day. It happened to perfectly describe the setting and atmosphere as I walked down the aisle with its lyrics. We ended the night with a candlelit dinner, just the two of us, listening to the rain, in the moment, taking it all in.”

Do you have any advice for couples considering an elopement? “An elopement allows you to budget more for your needs and make the moment special for you. You can add little sentimental details for you and your guests, and your guests also feel more special as only a few are hand-picked to witness your marriage. There are fewer things to worry about, so you can really spend your time focusing on the important details. For us, researching the perfect photographer to capture the day so we can relive and cherish those moments forever was one of the higher priorities. And we felt that Carla from The Unbridled told our story exactly how we wanted it to be told. If you choose to have an elopement, make it all about you and a celebration of your love. You won’t regret it.” Photography The Unbridled theunbridled.co.uk Venue Brickhouse Vineyard brickhousevineyard.co.uk Dress Pronovias pronovias.com Flowers From the Wild fromthewildflorist.com

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Calum and James combined a ceremony at Follaton House with a picturesque celebration at The Ship Inn in Noss Mayo What made you choose an elopement? “When we began planning a wedding, we realised that the expense both financially and emotionally was quickly accumulating; flowers, catering and our guest list seemed to grow and grow. We also worried about attendees being happy,” says Calum. “After some time, we walked together by the coast and started discussing what was really truly important to us and decided that was simply each other. Everything else could fall away but ultimately, we would still be there, together. After that realisation it fell into place quite fast. Anytime anything felt too much to consider, we found an alternative.”

What drew you to Follaton House and The Ship Inn? “We had our very first date in Totnes, and when looking for venues we knew we wanted somewhere that meant something special to us. When we saw Follaton House – a shockingly beautiful Georgian registry office with stunning gardens in the town that we had our very first date – it just felt perfect. We celebrated afterwards in Noss Mayo, a beautiful coastal village we’ve visited many times. From there we often walk the South Devon coastline, taking in sights, sounds and scents of the calm woods and the soothing ocean. It’s a place that brings us both a lot of peace and, on the day, it was a place we danced, and took some quiet moments to stroll in the woods together to cool off. It made for a truly folkstyle romance, surrounded by nature, which was very important to us.”

How did the day pan out? “The day began with some very light drizzle, but by the ceremony the clouds had begun to part and by the time we were celebrating, the day was gloriously bright. Our guests all looked incredibly beautiful too. We had a very loose theme for the day of ‘Forest by the Ocean’ or ‘a hobbit marries a merman!’, which felt right for the summer. We had collected seashells from our trips to beaches (which we then returned to the sea), and used lavender and ivy from our garden, in small glass bottles. We made a playlist of music that we have discovered together over the years. Everything was very simple.”

What stood out for you? “The whole day felt like one beautiful story. Our favourite little detail of the day was our ‘guest book’. Instead of a book of messages, we asked our few guests to take a Polaroid photo of something that they found beautiful, then to sign the photo and

“The whole day felt like one beautiful story”

leave it in a box. We got to glimpse through the eyes of our guests for a moment, and it gave us yet another treasure to keep. The Ship Inn made amazing food, vegetarian and seafood options, and everything was beautiful. We baked our own blueberry and lemon wedding cake. Our photographer, Emma from Freckle Photography, was truly a star of the day. We chose her because we felt that she had a style that perfectly fit our hobbity mermaidy ‘coastal folktale’ theme. By the end of everything we felt as though we had made a new friend.”

Do you have any advice for couples considering an elopement? “Do what feels right for you. By staying small and intimate, we prioritised things that we could treasure – our rings are bespoke, our photographs perfect and our clothes matched our folksy romantic souls. Try not to be afraid of others’ opinions. Whenever we let people know, they always said ‘Your wedding is about the two of you. You must do what you want to do.’ So we did! Having a tiny guest list meant we truly got to spend hours speaking to and enjoying our day with those we cherish. For us, intimacy was paramount.” Photography Freckle Photography frecklephotography.co.uk Venue Follaton House devon.gov.uk/registration-service/venues The Ship Inn theshipinn-nossmayo.co.uk

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PETITE AND PERFECT

Treetop Escape set the scene for Jaeda and Ian’s enchanting winter celebration What made you choose an elopement? “We decided to go for an elopement wedding as we preferred something small and intimate with just our nearest and dearest there,” explains Jaeda. “We wanted the day to be more about the small, personal, finer details rather than a big party.”

What drew you to Treetop Escape? “The moment we saw Treetop Escape we knew it was the one – it was perfect! The scenery was whimsical and romantic and the venue itself is stunning. Everything has been thought out perfectly. It’s modern with a quirky, country feel and just had that cosy, family space we were looking for.”

What stood out for you? “We have so many amazing memories from the moment we arrived. A memory we will always cherish was the arrival the night before our big day; we decided to stay together along with our two sons. It’s hard to find the words to describe how unbelievable the accommodation was! The staff went above and beyond to make sure all the finer details were put into place for our arrival. They had the music set to play as we walked in, the lighting to a romantic level, teddy bears were left for our boys on their beds and of course the prosecco, alpaca wool socks and hot tub were very welcome. We really couldn’t have asked for anything more. One moment that we’ll always remember – and one that always makes us chuckle – was when the resident alpacas took a dislike to Ian and chased him through the field as we were having our photos taken. I’ve never seen someone look so petrified and run as fast through the mud! Feeding alpacas on our wedding day was so unique and such a special moment for us as a family. Although we didn’t plan on having a big party, we decided to book Frisky Pheasant to make cocktails in the evening. We ended up drinking the poor man dry, which he said had never happened

“We had the most magical day from start to finish”

before at a wedding – our gang was small but mighty! Our day was just the most perfect day of our lives. We laughed from start to finish and my cheeks actually hurt from smiling so much at the end of the day. It was the perfect crisp, sunny winter’s day and we wouldn’t have changed a thing.”

Do you have any advice for couples considering an elopement? “We would advise anyone planning an elopement wedding to remember not to sweat the small stuff – as with any wedding, you will still stumble across some stresses but just keep reminding yourself why you decided to have a more intimate wedding in the first place. Also make sure the people you choose to be there really are your most special people as this is what truly made our day.” Photography Freefromimages Photography freeformimages.co.uk Venue Treetop Escape treetopescape.co.uk Styling Marcia Shapland marciashapland.com Flowers Church Park Flowers churchparkflowers.co.uk Catering Cooking With Gazz cookingwithgazz.com Cocktails & buffet Frisky Pheasant friskypheasant.co.uk Cake Mrs Smudger mrssmudgerskitchen.co.uk Hair & make-up Jaeda Marie Makeup & Beauty instagram.com/makeupbyjaedamarie

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Connie and Shawn celebrated their favourite things at their rural elopement at Little Silver House

Clare’s Cakes Simply Irresistible

What made you choose an elopement? “Shawn and I originally had a more traditional wedding planned for

Exclusively created and designed to your personal specification

2024 but, as we progressed through the planning stages, we found ourselves having to compromise and adapt what we really wanted more and more,” explains Connie. “We had always said that we would have a wedding that was relaxed and allowed us to focus on each other and this was becoming difficult to achieve. So, we cancelled everything and, as we began to research elopements, it all started to feel much more ‘us’. Feeling so comfortable in our choice and with my favourite season upon us – autumn – we just decided to go for it a year early. Everything was organised in just over two months!”

What drew you to Little Silver House? “We fell in love with Little Silver House straight away! I have a great love of nature so the option of getting married outside really appealed. The Victorian grotto looked so unique and beautiful, it really felt like the perfect spot to say ‘I do’. Our holiday of choice for years has been little glamping adventures and we’d have loved to incorporate this into

Contact Clare www.clarescakes.co.uk 01736 755581

our wedding but hadn’t been able to with our original plan. So, when we spotted that we could not only stay in a gorgeous hut but also have our wedding breakfast in one we knew Little Silver House was the venue for us! We were able to have our wedding and minimoon all

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How did the day pan out? “We had the most relaxed, fun and joyful day! It began with watching the sunrise in the hot tub – well, attempting to, as it was a bit cloudy! Luckily the weather held, and we had our ceremony outside in the grotto. We walked in together, as planned, and it all felt so special and very ‘us’. After the ceremony, we had canapés and fizz on the lawn and enjoyed the gorgeous view. Our photographer Laura made the whole experience so fun and relaxed. We then had a fabulous dinner. Everything was so delicious and the perfect end to a magical day.”

“We love the films of Wes Anderson and really wanted to incorporate

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elements of them into our day. We also love the film Up – the first 15

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minutes of the film is truly one of the greatest love stories ever told! All the suppliers were really on board with our vision. F O O D

PA S S I O N

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idea or route in their travels and go off to do what they want – which we thought was a brilliant metaphor for our elopement! The smoke bombs were also so much fun!”

Do you have any advice for couples considering an elopement? “Go for it! Think about all the elements that make you happy as a couple and decide on what you really want from your day. Do your research and pick a venue that will support you with your dream. We have zero regrets about our day; it turned out much better than we had thought possible!” Photography Freeformimages Photography freeformimages.co.uk Venue Little Silver Weddings littlesilverweddings.com Dress Dig for Victory Clothing digforvictoryclothing.com Flowers Blossoms & Butterflies blossomsandbutterflies.co.uk Cake Jax’s Cakes ‘N’ Bakes jaxscakesnbakes.com Catering Nomad Catering nomad.catering

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KIERA AND IOAN by DANIELLE VEITCH danielleveitch.com

got wed Beautiful love stories from across Devon

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KIERA AND IOAN by DANIELLE VEITCH danielleveitch.com

From This Moment Kiera and Ioan’s white wedding at Harefield Barn was filled with music and magic With perhaps an insight into the future, Kiera and Ioan were dressed in white when they met at a white-themed party on a Greek island. Back in England, their long-distance relationship flourished, and Kiera moved from Lincolnshire to join Ioan in Devon in 2017. Ioan got down on one knee to propose during a holiday in Cyprus at the top of Pathos Castle during sunset, with a view of the ocean. “The best moment ever!” recalls Kiera. As soon as they set eyes on Harefield Barn, they knew it would be a dream setting for their wedding. “The views and scenery were simply breathtaking and proved to be even more beautiful on the big day,” says Ioan. Choosing a minimalist theme of white and neutral colours, black accents made a style-pleasing statement, together with a series of personal touches as water art cocktail images for the table names “Ioan is known for making a mean cocktail!” says Kiera. Flowers by Ioan’s mum made for “incredible centrepieces”, with a trailing bouquet of orchids, peonies, roses, lisianthus and berries, while hydrangeas and larkspur also featured in the floral arrangements, as well as lush foliage including soft ruscus, eucalyptus, thlaspi and fragrant rosemary. The day began with Kiera’s bridesmaids and bridesman joining her for mimosas as they all got ready… with one slight mishap! “It was my turn in the chair, ready to be glammed up, when I heard a gasp,” says Kiera. “My bridesmaid’s dress had torn right down the side! Deborah of Harefield Barn saved the day and sewed my bridesmaid back into her dress... just in time for the ceremony!” With her mum and dad walking her down the aisle, Kiera remembers the “heart-stopping” moment of seeing her husband-to-be, as The Swing Kings sang Shania Twain’s From This Moment. “You suddenly forget everyone else is there and it is just the two of you together in that moment,” she reminisces. It was a similarly standout moment for Ioan, who felt the sense of occasion hit him, despite having been “cool as a cucumber” all morning. “All I remember is a flood of emotions hitting me in one go,” he says. “It was a really special moment for me seeing Kiera, beautiful as ever.” After the ceremony overlooking miles of rolling hills, guests enjoyed canapés and Pimm’s while The Swing Kings and magician Dan Brazier provided the entertainment. The views also took centre stage during the wedding breakfast, when guests tucked into dishes such as chicken liver parfait, slow-roast Venn Farm pork belly and chocolate torte amongst gorgeous florals framing the countryside beyond. “Our first dance was to a rendition of Can’t Stop the Feeling by Justin Timberlake; we slowed down the song to walk into and have that moment together, followed by everyone joining us on the dance floor to begin the party!” says Kiera. “We spent the evening dancing away with our nearest and dearest to great music including Kiera’s all-time favourite... ABBA!” adds Ioan. “The entire day was incredible and we would love to do it all over again in a heartbeat. It felt heartwarming to have all the people we love so dearly, all in one place,” says Kiera. “Our words of advice to other couples would be to simply enjoy your day. Relax and embrace every second. It was simply the best day of our lives together and we felt like we were in a magical bubble together.”

Photography Danielle Veitch danielleveitch.com

Flowers Gill Clavey at The Mossy Twig

Videography Moments to Media momentstomedia.com

Catering Lap Food and Bars lapfoodandbars.co.uk

Venue Harefield Barn harefieldbarn.co.uk

Arch Unique Designs by Tina uniquedesignsbytina.com

Dress Richard Designs from La Boutique laboutique.org.uk

Cake Emily Clegg instagram.com/cleggemily

Suit Zebel Bespoke zebel.co.uk

Stationery Prim instagram.com/prim.events Mally’s Crafts mallyscrafts.co.uk

Hair Cindy Beddard cindybeddardbridalhair.co.uk

Entertainment Dan Brazier danbrazier.com

Make-up Liza Hayward instagram.com/_makeup_by_liza_

The Swing Kings theswingkings.co.uk

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KIERA AND IOAN by DANIELLE VEITCH danielleveitch.com

The orchards and rolling meadows of Harefield Barn made an idyllic setting for Kiera and Ioan’s wedding

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GRACE AND JAMIE by KATHRYN CLARKE-MCLEOD kathrynclarkemcleod.com

You’ve Got the Love Spring sunshine and seasonal blooms set the stunning scene for Grace and Jamie’s wedding at Hareston Manor After meeting on the first day of university, Grace and Jamie became firm friends and their friendship soon blossomed into romance when he asked her on a date. The couple were celebrating their 10-year anniversary in Mauritius when Jamie made the holiday even more special. “The sunset was absolutely beautiful and we went for a walk along the beach; that’s when Jamie got down on one knee and proposed,” Grace reminisces. “He knew I wouldn’t want it to be done in front of a lot of people, so he managed to find a secluded spot so we could enjoy the moment.” The search for a wedding venue began – and both Grace and Jamie had their hearts set on marrying in the South-west. “We wanted to get married in Devon or Cornwall as we met at Exeter University, plus I spent a lot of my childhood in Rock and Jamie spent his summers in Shaldon and Teignmouth,” she explains. “It felt right for us to get married around these areas and it meant a lot to us to find such a beautiful venue in Hareston Manor.” A gorgeous array of seasonal flowers such as peonies and roses carried their colour scheme of white, blush pink, sage, olive and dusky blue for their May wedding. “We chose to have our wedding as a black tie event as we always love an opportunity to dress up and also loved the contrast of a relaxed setting with the sophistication of black tie,” explains Grace, who wore a customised Suzanne Neville gown, while her bridesmaids opted for satin dresses in olive green. The couple chose to have a ‘first look’ before Grace walked down the aisle to an acoustic rendition of Elvis Presley’s Can’t Help Falling in Love. “We both felt like we might get quite emotional and wanted a moment beforehand to see each other in private and give each other a hug and a kiss before the big moment!” she says. After their outdoor ceremony, with the beautiful historic house as their backdrop, guests spilled into the sunfilled gardens for drinks and canapés. Settling into a tipi dressed with flowers and foliage, everyone tucked into the sumptuous likes of crab arancini, buratta with slow-roasted tomatoes, slow-braised brisket and cauliflower steaks with chimichurri sauce. “Instead of a cake, we had a sweets table which had a selection of brownies, mini cupcakes and chocolate chip cookies,” says Grace of the sweet endnote. The couple’s first dance – to You’ve Got the Love by Florence and The Machine – opened the evening celebrations, with everyone enjoying an espresso martini shot to “bring the energy to the dance floor”. Eightpiece band Clique kept the party going, playing an infectious mix of Motown and soul music. And the end of the night didn’t mark the end of the celebrations, with guests returning to the manor the next day for drinks, pizza and ice cream in the sunshine. “The entire day was amazing,” says Grace, looking back. “The ‘first look’ was so special and made us feel calm going into the ceremony. The sunset was also a standout moment. We were very stressed about the weather leading up to the day, but we were so lucky and the sunset was so beautiful. It felt like a perfect moment of peace nestled into a very full-on day.” As for advice for those planning, she asserts: “Choose your non-negotiables and arrange your budget around them. Also, spreadsheets are your friend!”

Photography Kathryn Clarke-McLeod kathrynclarkemcleod.com

Flowers Thorn Flowers thornflowers.uk

Videography Salty Beard Productions saltybeardproductions.com

Catering Four Elements fourelementscatering.com

Venue Hareston Manor harestonwedding.co.uk

Invitations Print for Love printforlove.co.uk

Dress Suzanne Neville from The Bride the-bride.co.uk

Sweet table Sweet Buns facebook.com/sweetbunsdevon

Bridesmaids’ dresses Amsale amsale.com

Transport Wembury Cars wemburycars.com

Suit Hugo Boss hugoboss.com

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Hair & make-up Lucille & Co. lucillenco.com

Clique entertainment-nation.co.uk/clique

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GRACE AND JAMIE by KATHRYN CLARKE-MCLEOD kathrynclarkemcleod.com

The historic house and enchanting grounds of Hareston Manor provided a dream backdrop for Grace and Jamie’s spring wedding.

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LUCY AND YOUSEF by GRACE ELIZABETH grace-elizabeth.co.uk

Peaches and Cream Lucy and Yousef’s late spring wedding was a dreamy blend of wildflowers, peachy tones and sun-dappled celebrations at Upton Barn Lucy and Yousef have been inseparable since the age of 17. On the day the couple got the keys to their first home together, Yousef made the occasion doubly exciting by popping the question! “As I unlocked the door, I turned around to see Yousef on one knee and my parents and our pup Oscar in the background watching on,” says Lucy. “It was so sweet.” When it came to choosing their wedding venue, there was one location that stood out. “The moment we walked into Upton Barn, we both knew it was where we wanted to get married,” she says. Settling on a calming colour scheme of “neutrals with peachy splashes”, the floral arrangements carried the palette beautifully, with a foliage garland around the ceremony arbor and stem flowers throughout the venue. The couple also incorporated personal little details throughout the day. “As we weren’t allowed dogs at the venue, we made a photo frame with our family dogs for drinks signs,” says Lucy. “I also made a photobook of mine and Yousef’s pictures through the years and – as our last name was going to be Walker – we made a crisps wall of Walkers crisps with a sign reading ‘We know you’re here for the Walkers.’” The couple’s most treasured moment took place as their ceremony began. “We have the same favourite moment of the day: seeing each other for the first time when we met again at the end of the aisle,” says Lucy, who reminisces that “every second of the ceremony was perfect”. The newlyweds enjoyed welcome drinks, canapés and garden games with their guests, with a highlight being “cornhole on the lawn and meeting the horses around the grounds”, before a wedding breakfast of cheddar and leek crumble tart and ‘build-your-own beef burger’ sharing boards. “My mum and sister made our wedding cake, which was dessert,” says Lucy. “It was so special and tasted amazing.” As the guests enjoyed the sunset, Lucy and Yousef took some timeout for photographs before their first dance to an acoustic cover of Iris by Goo Goo Dolls. “Yousef had wanted this song as his first dance for years, and it was such a lovely moment to share together,” she says, “although my grandma’s mobile rang during the first dance – and she took the call! It definitely made us all chuckle.” An evening full of dancing, toasting marshmallows on the fire and woodfired pizza followed. “We danced the night away,” says Lucy. “Memories of the wedding day will stay with us forever, especially spending time with our amazing families and close friends.” And when it comes to planning, she recommends a sweet way to memorialise the day. “My cousin took pictures of all our guests in the evening on a Polaroid camera and got them to write us a personal message, which we read the day after,” she says. “This was such a lovely memory for us to keep forever.” Their top tip for couples is to try not to overthink a decision. “The first choice was probably already perfect so don’t stress yourselves!” says Lucy. “And don’t forget that at the end of the day you get to marry your best friend – don’t lose sight of that.”

Photography Grace Elizabeth grace-elizabeth.co.uk

Seamstress Gwen Lloyd-Edwards instagram.com/Gwenlloydedwardsdesigner

Videography Union Video unionvideo.co.uk

Tailoring Sharif Mirzad shariftailoring.co.uk

Venue Upton Barn uptonbarn.com

Flowers Lucy Charlotte Floral Design lucycharlottefloraldesign.co.uk

Dress Brides at Waterfields bridesatwaterfields.co.uk

Catering Mulberry Catering Co mulberrycatering.co.uk

Hair Jade Conibere instagram.com/jadeconibere_hair

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Make-up Michelle Lopez lopezbeauty.com

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Suits Burton burton.co.uk

DJ & magic mirror Bespoke Disco instagram.com/bespokediscocompany

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The sun shone on Lucy and Yousef as they took their vows in the pretty setting of Upton Barn’s walled garden.

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LUCY AND YOUSEF by GRACE ELIZABETH grace-elizabeth.co.uk

“Memories of the wedding day will stay with us forever”

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PHOTO + FILM

K AT H E R I N E & S T E V E P A N K I E W I C Z W W W. N O VAW E D D I N G P H OTO G R A P H Y. C O . U K

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CHARLIE AND DAVID by HARRIET BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY harrietbirdphotography.com

Bright and Beautiful Charlie and David celebrated their colourful union with all things floral and fabulous at River Cottage Meeting at work through a charity event, Charlie and David’s connection was clear from the outset. A few years later and a sunny spring walk on Dartmoor led them to ‘Yes Tor’ – which should have been Charlie’s first clue of what David had planned! “As Yes Tor is one of the highest points on the moor, you can see for miles in every direction. We had lived in Cornwall and Devon during our time together and were just about to move to Somerset,” says Charlie. “It was perfect; we could see where we had come from, where we were and where our future was, all at once.” Bright colours and sustainability were the keynotes of their River Cottage wedding. “One of the reasons we chose River Cottage was because of their ethos around food: organically grown, celebrating local and seasonal produce, and they happily catered for vegetarian menus,” explains Charlie. In keeping with the sustainable ethos, guests were asked to wear something they already owned or would wear again, and décor was kept to a minimum. “For favours, we bought plain cardboard matchboxes, stamped them with our initials and filled them with native wildflower seed bombs, so everyone could spread a bit of colour and give native wildlife a home,” says Charlie, who made the seating plan and order of the day from old picture frames. “We crocheted and knitted bunting out of colourful wool with help from our families, and we picked and dried all our confetti from flowers in our garden.” With both Charlie and David dressed in colourful attire, the ceremony took place in the vegetable garden. “It was amazing to get married outside with flowers and nature all around,” she reflects. “We were visited by a little hoverfly, who loved our floral outfits and kept landing on us, and a robin sung along as we said our vows.” This was followed by canapés, cocktails, games – including welly wanging and a vegetable shy – and a novel painting idea. “Emma from Make Your Mark Events created a landscape of one of the beaches in Cornwall where we always used to walk the dog, for guests to colour in.” The “sublime” vegetarian feast included a trio of beetroot, seasonal squash gnocchi and ‘diddy Dutch pancakes’ with mascarpone and raspberries and, as night fell, guests tucked into wood-fired pizzas topped with seasonal vegetables. “We asked River Cottage to make us a pizza to cut instead of a cake. They covered it in petals, which was an ingenious touch,” says Charlie. “For our first dance, we danced and sang to The Most Beautiful Girl (in the Room) by Flight of the Conchords. We thought people would join us after the first chorus but they were having too much fun watching us be silly!” Live band Pop the Top kept everyone dancing until the end of the night, leaving the newlyweds to reflect on their day. “The whole day was everything we could have asked for and more!” says Charlie. “Fun, chilled, outdoorsy and colourful, with incredible food and all our favourite people.” As an endnote, she has a top tip for nearlyweds who are on the hunt for the perfect location. “Choose a venue with an on-site coordinator if you can,” she says. “This was advice we were given to us by friends who’d just got married and proved invaluable!”

Photography Harriet Bird Photography harrietbirdphotography.com

Make-up Laura Le Page Bridal Makeup lauralepagebridalmakeup.com

Venue River Cottage rivercottage.net

Flowers Bracken & Bloom brackenandbloom.co.uk

Engagement ring Amy Jennifer Jewellery amyjenniferjewellery.com

Rings Mirri Damer mirridamer.com

Bride’s outfit jumpsuit Ted Baker tedbaker.com shoes Vans vans.co.uk

Stationery With Joy withjoy.com

Adjustments DB Sewing dbsewing.co.uk

Sarah Edmunds Illustration sarahedmondsshop.com

Groom’s outfit shirt Neem London neemlondon.com jacket Brook Tavener

Entertainment Pop the Top popthetop.co.uk

brooktaverner.co.uk chinos Asket asket.com boots SoloVair uk.nps-solovair.com

Painting Make Your Mark Events makeyourmarkevents.co.uk

Hair Bridal Hair by Rosanne bridalhairbyrosanne.co.uk

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River Cottage made the perfect setting for Charlie and David’s colourful and sustainable wedding day.

“The whole day was everything we could have asked for and more”

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CHARLIE AND DAVID by HARRIET BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY harrietbirdphotography.com

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BIANCA AND OLI by I DO FILM & PHOTOS idofilmandphotos.co.uk

Pure Magic Bianca and Oli’s romantic country house wedding at Rockbeare Manor presented crowd-pleasing entertainment and personal touches Having first met at a Newquay nightclub, Oli proposed to Bianca over a decade later while the couple were holidaying in the Maldives. “We had originally planned a trip to the Maldives just before the pandemic in 2020,” she explains. “Once travel restrictions had eased and it was safe to travel again, Oli rebooked it for July 2022 and this is where he proposed, on a beautiful afternoon whilst we were walking around the island.” It didn’t take long for the couple to fall for the beautiful setting of Rockbeare Manor. “We loved everything about Rockbeare Manor and we wanted a colour that complemented the venue,” says Bianca. Taking an elegant shade of dusty blue as their key shade, she designed the look of the day around the venue, with gorgeous arrangements of blooms in shades of blue and cream adorning the ceremony and tabletops. “I was inspired by fresh, modern looks,” she explains. She handmade much of the décor herself, including the acrylic place settings and table signs using vinyl and perspex, with scratchcards bought for guests as a fun alternative to traditional favours. Opting to marry in the dining room to a stirring saxophonist soundtrack, Bianca walked down the aisle with her dad to Ed Sheeran’s Perfect and exited to a song that still lingers in her memory. “I remember sitting in my in-laws’ living room going through wedding songs and we laughed and said how fitting it would be to have At Last by Etta James, as I had waited 12 years for a proposal!” exclaims Bianca. Canapés and drinks then flowed as saxophonist Daniel Costin – and a champagne tower – wowed their guests. The wedding breakfast was another crowd-pleasing affair, including warm shredded confit duck, Creedy Carver chicken supreme, roasted rump of lamb, and caramelised lemon tart, blackberry sorbet and candied lemon zest. Magician Lewis Belcher kick-started the evening’s entertainment, with a violinist and a DJ ensuring the dance floor was the place to be throughout the night.. “We asked the DJ for a party and he delivered!” smiles Oli. “It was honestly one of the best days of my life!” says Bianca. “However, my highlight was Oli’s speech. He isn’t one to get vulnerable in front of others, so it was a beautiful moment when he got a tad emotional.” When asked for her words of advice, Bianca encourages other couples to focus on their relationship during the planning process. “Having evenings where you just switch off and spend quality time together is important,” she says. As far as practical tips go, Bianca suggests getting creative to save money and add extra creativity and meaning. “We had a good budget for our wedding but we saved money on doing a couple of DIY decorations,” she says. “This added so much sentimental value to the day for us.” She also advises prioritising key elements to design a cost-saving and personality-packed day. “I would personally encourage people to invest in entertainment – and repurpose their flowers,” she adds. “Our ceremony flowers doubled up as table flowers and this saved us a lot of money.”

Photography & videography I Do Film & Photos idofilmandphotos.co.uk

Make-up Charlotte Falber Makeup Artistry cfmakeupartistry.co.uk

Venue Rockbeare Manor rockbearemanor.co.uk

Flowers From The Wild fromthewildflorist.com

Dress Essense of Australia from Prudence Gowns prudencegowns.com

Cake Hat-a-Cakes hatacakes.co.uk

Suits Moss moss.co.uk

Welcome sign & table plan Mally’s Crafts mallyscrafts.co.uk

Page boy’s outfit Hugo Boss hugoboss.com Next next.co.uk

Magician Lewis Belcher lbmagic.uk

Bridesmaids’ dresses ASOS asos.com

Entertainment Daniel Costin danielcostin.live

Flower girl’s dress Monsoon monsoon.co.uk

Kieran Clark Entertainment kieranclarkeents.co.uk

Hair Jodie Kennegan instagram.com/bangingblowdry

Nino Violin ninoviolin.com

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BIANCA AND OLI by I DO FILM & PHOTOS idofilmandphotos.co.uk

Bianca and Oli savoured their joy-filled celebrations in the elegant setting of Rockbeare Manor.

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“It was honestly one of the best days of my life”

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ELLIE AND SAM by NOVA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY novaweddingphotography.co.uk

Better Together Ellie and Sam designed a day around their favourite things for a rural romance full of fun, colour and flavour After years of singledom, Ellie and Sam connected on Hinge before finally meeting each other when the pubs reopened after the first Covid lockdown. Their socially distanced first date at The Devonshire in Balham led to love and a two-year anniversary proposal followed during a glamping trip near Camber Sands. Hayne Devon was the idyllic setting for their colourful country wedding, which blended a variety of themes from The Lord of the Rings to “our love of the mountains, camping, travel and other people’s weddings we had been to!” Vibrant displays of homegrown wildflowers were paired with handmade and secondhand décor to create a fun, personal and sustainable scene full of unique character. “This was exactly the sustainable country vibe we were after,” comments Ellie. Sam took the corkboard from their kitchen to display the seating plan, which he printed along with the Lord of the Rings-inspired table names and place settings using sustainably sourced card. There was also an abundance of ‘something borrowed’, including the wooden centrepieces and Ellie’s friend’s 150 handmade coloured napkins. “For a fun touch we used candy necklaces as napkin rings,” she says. “The guests loved this and it also made the whole room smell amazing.” The ceremony was staged in the walled garden, where Ellie completed her aisle walk through the garden to Elvis Presley’s Can’t Help Falling in Love. “My dad died a few years ago so I asked my brother to walk with me and it was so special to share those moments with him,” she says. A family-led affair, Sam’s mum read the first verse and chorus of Jack Johnson’s Better Together, after which the newlyweds exited to September by Earth, Wind & Fire. “It was my dad’s favourite and the wedding was in September,” says Ellie. Walking out of the garden provided the couple with one of their favourite memories. “That first moment to ourselves as a married couple was so special,” she reminisces. “We hugged, burst into tears and were just giddy with happiness.” The celebrations began with a Devon cream tea while guests supped on champagne and played garden games in the sunshine to the soundtrack of musician (and Hayne owner) Tim and his gypsy trio. A vegetarian feast featuring flatbreads with dips, sharing platters including vegetable and feta tart, heritage tomato salad and rainbow slaw, and an array of desserts provided by guests was followed by the speeches and an evening of dancing to Tim’s band. Looking back at their dream day, Ellie is replete with advice for other couples. “Make a decision, stick with it and move on,” she says. “You’ll send yourself mad as there are so many options. Trust your gut and if you like it, go for it and don’t worry what other people will think.” Budget, time and plenty of chats are her other top takeaways. “Spend money on the things that matter to you and ditch the rest,” she says. “Everything takes longer than you expect to do so budget in extra time. And over-communicate with your partner!”

Photography Nova Wedding Photography novaphotography.co.uk Venue, flowers & entertainment Hayne Devon haynedevon.co.uk Dress E&W Couture eandwcouture.co.uk Bridesmaids’ dresses Oasis oasisfashion.com Suit Clifton Suits cliftonsuits.co.uk Hair Cindy Beddard Bridal Hair cindybeddardbridalhair.co.uk Make-up Makeup by Lisa Hannah makeupbylisahannah.com Catering Lafafa Catering lafafacatering.co.uk

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ELLIE AND SAM by NOVA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY novaweddingphotography.co.uk

“Plan the day you want not what other people want!”

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Ellie and Sam filled their wedding with vibrant arrangements of homegrown flowers and handmade décor.

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Where Wedding Dreams Do Come True!

Daisy

Located in 65 acres of beautiful Devon countryside, Bickleigh Castle is the perfect wedding venue for all seasons. Bickleigh Castle offers stunning countryside views, set in manicured grounds around a pretty courtyard and surrounded by a moat, the magnificent Castle with its beautiful Italian gates offers the perfect historic backdrop. This most impressive and historical estate is one of the leading Castle Wedding venues in the UK and is the perfect location for your dream wedding.

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VALENTINA AND TOBY by CLARE KINCHIN clarekinchinphotography.co.uk

Estate of Grace Valentina and Toby’s picturesque wedding at Kingston Estate was full of surprise touches and poignant moments Hailing from Switzerland, Valentina met Toby, who moved from the UK to the country for work, during a ski weekend in Davos. “Toby proposed during one of our walks that we like to do close to our home,” she reminisces. The couple chose Kingston Estate as the setting for their celebrations. “The venue was great and, as there was enough accommodation on-site, we were able to save a lot of planning on where people would stay or how they would get to the venue,” says Toby of the appeal of the versatile and picture-perfect venue. Choosing a palette of white, cream and green, bountiful arrangements of blooms and foliage complemented the garden setting perfectly, lining the aisle, adorning the ceremony arbor and decorating the trestle tables of the glass house where the wedding feast took place. Flanked by her bridesmaids donning mismatched dresses in summery hues, Valentina teamed her elegant Jesus Peiro gown with relaxed waves at her shoulders and a stunning bouquet of creamy florals and foliage for the garden ceremony. “My favourite moment was right before I walked down the aisle with my dad,” she reflects. “It was very emotional and I suddenly realised it was all happening.” It was a personalised ceremony, with both Toby and Valentina’s siblings performing a reading and her maid of honour singing Hallelujah. The newlyweds then enjoyed mingling with their guests over drinks and canapés in the sun-drenched grounds of the venue’s Mansion House before a wedding breakfast including the sumptuous likes of tomato and burrata salad, rosemary and garlic chicken with a selection of sides, and chocolate brownies with vanilla crème fraiche. “For me, one of the biggest surprises was that my choir friends sang a song for us – I was very touched!” says Valentina, reminiscing on a memorable part of the day. The couple had a surprise in store themselves when they delighted their guests with a choreographed routine to Ed Sheeran’s Thinking Out Loud. “It was a very nice atmosphere and a lovely way to open the dance floor,” she says. Live band The Wild Sons ensured the dance floor was in full swing throughout the evening, with the partying continuing in the venue’s Undercroft nightclub until 1am. “We had a lot of people saying: ‘This was the best wedding we have ever been to’,” reflects Toby. “Everyone really did seem to enjoy themselves and the weather was great.” And it wasn’t just the wedding day itself that brought Valentina and Toby’s loved ones together. “We had a full weekend wedding, which I think was the best thing we could have done,” she says. “We also hired nannies so people who came from overseas could bring their little ones and would have some help.” For those busily planning their own wedding, Valentina has some succinct advice. “Plan as much as you can ahead,” she says. “And then enjoy the day and take it as it comes.”

Photography Clare Kinchin Photography clarekinchinphotography.co.uk

Celebrant David Linaker davidlinaker.com

Venue Kingston Estate kingston-estate.co.uk

Flowers Bearded Florista beardedflorista.co.uk

Dress Jesus Peiro from Zoro zoro.ch

Cake Queen Bee Cakes queenbeecakes.org.uk

Suit Zoro zoro.ch

Transport Bob the Bus bobthebus.org.uk

Hair Toni Gogola tonigogola.co.uk

Entertainment Cascada Strings cascadastrings.co.uk

Make-up Sophie May Fawkes instagram.com/sophiemayfmua

The Wild Sons thewildsons.co.uk

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VALENTINA AND TOBY by CLARE KINCHIN clarekinchinphotography.co.uk

“We walked out through the clocktower for the confetti throw

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Licenced Wedding Ceremony Venue 2 to 40 (80 evening)

Photo: Yeti Photography

St Nicholas Priory Founded 1087

Set in the heart of Exeter, St Nicholas Priory is the city’s oldest building and the perfect venue for small, intimate weddings. St Nicholas Priory has provided hospitality and a warm welcome for centuries, playing an important role in the life and history of the city. Let us now extend that warmth to you for your special day.

St Nicholas Priory, The mint, Exeter,EX43BL

www.nicholaspriory.com

admin@ehbt.org.uk

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regular | NOTES ON A WEDDING

Plan a so-you celebration with these top tips from the wedding gurus. This issue, we look at ideas for personalising your day

NOTES ON A WEDDING The Buffalo

Choose your favourite cocktail to be added to the drinks menu

iStock.com/AlxeyPnferov

The Whole Caboodle

Linoroom linoroom.com

Hand-drawn placenames add a personal touch

Embroider monogrammed designs onto your napkins

Add a personalised topper to drinks for a bespoke touch

Ask friends to bring petals from their garden for confetti The 2 Lisas

iStock.com/Tafiphoto

Add an embroidered message to your veil to make it perfectly ‘you’

iStock.com/Ania Saenz de Urturi

Why not have your venue feature on your stationery suite?

Grace Elizabeth

Kamila Nowak

The Whole Caboodle

Do you love the sea? Add coastal touches to your décor

Serve food from a country that means something to you both

Rebecca Anne Designs

The Whole Caboodle

Handmade gifts such as soaps make thoughtful favours

perfect! Hazel

make your day reflect you. It can be something subtle such as a thistle in a buttonhole or something much larger, such as an outfit change to reflect traditional

Watch your language. Are you multilingual? Why not create your stationery in both languages and

Top idea. Adorn your cocktail glasses with

have little snippets of language dotted throughout the day? Sophie

personalised toppers featuring your wedding monogram for sipping in style. Sophie

Winners are grinners. Organise a ‘who

Tribe vibe. Build your wedding tribe and use

your invitations, on-the-day stationery or even embroidered onto napkins. Phoebe

knows us best?’ quiz with each table competing for a prize. Include questions such as ‘Who said I love you first?’ or ‘What drinks did we order on our first date?’

Include your hobbies. Do your friends

Phoebe

handwritten shells. Hazel

Décor and design. Add personal touches

Happy meal. Serve evening food that relates

Scent from above. Create your own

beautiful scent and spritz it onto your save the dates and invitations, then use a spray scent, wax seal, diffusers or candles to immerse your guests in the scent during your ceremony and reception. Hazel

Monogram magic. Wedding monograms

are a lovely way of bringing a personalised element across your whole wedding, whether it be on

know you are particularly interested in a specific hobby? Are you both surfers? Why don’t you buy a surfboard that can be signed by your friends and family and then put on your wall? Sophie

Do me a favour. Choose creative and

personalised favours that are personal to you; this could be miniature homemade sloe gin, gorgeous handmade soap or homemade chutney for favours. Hazel

Hail the veil. Wear a personalised veil that’s

embroidered just for you, whether it’s your initials, wedding date, favourite quote or song lyrics. Take a look at the exquisite creations by Rebecca Anne Designs (rebeccaannedesigns.co.uk). Sophie

Flower power. Bring a personal touch to

your big confetti moment by using dried flower

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petals from your garden, or asking your friends and family to bring it from theirs. Pretty and personal –

such as antique table linens, handmade candle holders or potted flowers that guests can take home as wedding favours. Hazel

Drink it in. Signature cocktails are a subtle

way of personalising your day. Choose one cocktail each and pop a menu up on the bar showcasing the selection. Phoebe

Looking good. Make your stationery personal to you so it represents you both. From table names, table plan and place names to colours and style – will they be fun and quirky, romantic and classic or understated and natural? Hazel

Make it about you. Including a nod to your

wedding attire. Phoebe

their skills to personalise your day. For example, you might enlist creative friends to make candle holders, vases or alternative place names for tables, such as

to a special time in your relationship. Maybe you got engaged while travelling in Asia and fancy serving Asian street food, or perhaps you met in Cornwall and would like to offer your guests platters of Cornish pasties. Phoebe

dings Ordinary Wed s, Out of the on rs Pa el az H com aryweddings. outoftheordin , Clover & Fern Phoebe Taylor com cloverandfern.

ie etails by Soph r, The Little D Sophie Walke bysophie.com thelittledetails

heritage, hometown or family traditions will really

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01736 695775

st_ivesbridalboutique

stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

4 Trevenwyth Rural Workshops, St Ives Road, Lelant - St Ives, TR26 3EU

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