Wed Magazine Devon Issue 45

D E V O N ’ S FA B U LO U S W E D D I N G M A GA Z I N E

ISSUE 45 2020 | £3.50

TM

FRESH BEGINNINGS Dresses. Venues. Styling. Real weddings

2

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

3

ROMANTIC ELOPEMENT FOR THE TWO OF YOU, OR INVITE UP TO 150 GUESTS.

www.harestonwedding.co.uk

4

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

WELCOME Photography Shield Media Services Styling Knots & Kisses Dress Olivia Hooper Bridal Groom’s outfit ASOS

let’s get married!

Whether you’re newly engaged – congratulations!

of their scaled-down – but so-stunning – wedding

Love’, while ‘Once Upon a Dream’ presents dreamily

– or planning your long awaited big day, I’d like to

days. And if you’re considering an intimate wedding,

ethereal wedding inspiration with a modern pre-

welcome you to the new issue of Wed Magazine.

then turn to our feature ‘Micro Magic’. As well as top

Raphaelite twist at new wedding venue, Hareston

We’re here to provide some joyful escapism during

tips from the experts, we hear from two couples who

Manor. More joy-filling content comes in the form of

these uncertain times. From planning advice

reveal why they chose a small-scale celebration.

‘Love Conquers All’, a creative and romantic take on ‘Romeo and Juliet’, while ‘Shape of our Love’ combines

and Devon’s finest venues to styling inspiration and aww-inducing love stories, these pages are

One of the most exciting jobs on your planning to-do

a carnival of colours, flowers and geometric design for

designed to help you kick off your planning while

list is undoubtedly the quest for your dream dress.

a vibrant tipi celebration.

celebrating the love that you’ve found and stirring

Finding it should be such a standout moment – and

excitement for the festivities that lie ahead. If

we’re so proud here at Wed to showcase not only

You’ll also find top planning tips, the secrets to a stress-

anything, the dark days of the Covid-19 pandemic

the county’s most incredible bridal wear, but also

free hen do and send-off ideas for an unforgettable exit

have reminded us just how important a sense

some truly special boutiques where expert advice

as well as real wedding stories from the flower-filled

of togetherness is – and how sweet that day will

comes with wonderfully warm service. Whether your

meadows of north Devon to the sandy shores of the

be when your family and friends can gather to

vibe is minimalist or ‘more is more’, you’ll find some

South Hams.

celebrate love and life once again!

super-chic gowns in these pages, from stylishly pared-

While it’s been a turbulent time for both couples and

back styles in ‘Minimal Luxe’ to dazzling details and

I hope these pages leave you with flutters of

statement sleeves in ‘Something New.’

excitement for the days to come. Curl up with a cuppa and enjoy!

the wedding industry, the gloom has been punctuated by some beautiful weddings here in Devon. In our

There are more stunning fashions for brides and

feature, ‘Love Wins!’ three couples share the stories

grooms – alongside luxe boho-chic styling – in ‘Modern

Rebecca

5

feature | LOVE WINS!

love wins!

There’s been heartache in recent months, but there have also been uplifting moments. Here, three couples share the stories of their small but oh-so beautiful Devon weddings

6

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

LOVE WINS!

“It felt like the wedding we were always meant to have.”

“Euan and I got engaged in April 2018, and planned our wedding for 12th September 2020,” says Bethany. “We originally planned to have 100 people in the day and an extra 50 in the evening. When the lockdown first hit in March, we were still incredibly hopeful that our wedding would go ahead. At no point was I willing to consider postponement – I was so determined we would get married on our original date.

In June, we came to terms with the fact that a big wedding was looking unlikely and made plans for smaller weddings of 100 people, 75 people, 50 people, and 30 people. I’d say I went through a

it was filled with love, laughter and tears. After

The next morning, we had a post-wedding

mourning period for my ‘big wedding’, but once

the service we were greeted by so many people –

brunch where we were able to say goodbye to

I had got over that I was able to focus on a more

friends, extended family friends, work colleagues and

everyone before heading off to Venice for our

intimate wedding and started to get incredibly

total strangers all lined up to throw confetti. I think

minimoon. The whole weekend was a dream

excited.

everyone was just so happy to see a wedding going

and fell just before tighter restrictions came

ahead!

into place. We were so incredibly lucky! In a

If anything, I think the pandemic has brought Euan

weird way it felt like the wedding we were

and I closer. Having to fight against the odds for

We went back to my parents’ house for our

our wedding made us realise how much we really

reception in the gorgeous barn decorated with

did want to be married, and how much more

the most incredible floral set-up. When we cut

Venue St Eustachius Church, Tavistock

important getting married and being married was

our numbers to 30, we decided to add two

Photography Freckle Photography

to us than the wedding. We were so ready to step

courses to our wedding breakfast as well as extra

frecklephotography.co.uk

into the next chapter of our lives!

finishing touches including bigger favour boxes with

Dress bride’s design made by Alan Hannah via Olivia

personalised tea light holders, individual limoncellos We got married on Saturday 12th September and

to go with pudding, menus on each place setting,

it was beyond perfect! We managed to stick to

and marble charger plates. We also decided to have

our original date, our original suppliers, and had

a ‘cocktail hour’ which meant everyone had variety

a church wedding followed by a reception in a

for their evening drinks. Euan and I left at around

converted barn at my parents’ house.

9:30pm and spent the rest of the night at a hotel,

always meant to have. It was truly perfect!”

Hooper Bridal oliviahooper.co.uk Hair The Hair Lounge thehairloungetavistock.co.uk Make-up No. 5 Aesthetic and Beauty Clinic no5beautyclinic.co.uk Catering Taylors taylorstavistock.co.uk Flowers Flowers Et Al flowersetal.co.uk

sitting in our wedding outfits drinking champagne

Tableware Keeping It Vintage keepingitvintage.co.uk

Our marriage service was absolutely magical - we

and talking about our day – it was the most

Favour boxes The Empty Box Company emptybox.co.uk

had a very close family friend take the service and

incredible way to end the evening.

Videography Baxter and Ted baxterandted.co.uk

7

feature | LOVE WINS!

“We just wanted to be married!”

“We have been together for eight years,” says Hannah.

“We met via online dating and our first date was at a bar in Camden. We got engaged in December 2018 and set a wedding date for Saturday 26th September at Exeter Cathedral, followed by a reception at Rockbeare Manor.

Steven and I have lived together for nearly five years now, and there is nothing like a pandemic to test the strength of your relationship.

We lived in lockdown in a small house with my mother-in-law and three cats, while Steven worked from home – and managed to still make each other smile and laugh. The lockdown just further highlighted how important being husband and wife was to us.

Planning a wedding during lockdown was incredibly stressful. The uncertainty of whether the wedding would go ahead or not was really demoralising and lasted until four weeks before our chosen date. We had to bite the bullet and go for it or postpone. We were originally having 90 guests, a full cathedral choir, transport and a DJ dance floor. All of this changed due to government rules. Neither of us had a hen or stag do. We dropped our guests down to 27. No dance floor, no transport and, most heartbreakingly of all, we had to disappoint lots of family and friends who we couldn’t invite due to the strict numbers. I originally wanted four bridesmaids but had to lose two, and most of my nieces and nephews couldn’t come.

Four days before our wedding, it was announced that the numbers rule would drop from 30 to 15, but we missed the cut-off date by the skin of our teeth as it applied 48 hours after our date.

On the day, our guests had to wear masks during the ceremony, but luckily that didn’t apply to the bride and groom, or anyone involved processing down the aisle. We got married at the cathedral at 11am, and then everyone made their own way by cars to Rockbeare Manor in time for canapés, drinks and a sit-down meal.

My lovely school friend did our flowers – our colour theme was natural white, green and gold, and she did an amazing job with beautiful bouquets and buttonholes.

The weather was just incredible. We had garden games and a ping-pong table, cut the cake outside, and had the most fun with smoke bombs for our photos, while instead of a first dance we did a funny mime to Natalie Imbruglia’s ‘Torn’. The day finished with mini pizzas and flatbreads, followed by sparklers. It was a truly wonderful day.

We’re so glad we decided to go ahead with our wedding. I have so much sympathy for all the couples having to contend with postponing, and to all my musical and creative friends who’ve lost work within the wedding industry because of Covid-19. We just wanted to be married, but we want to have a big party with a dance floor when this is all over!”

Venue Exeter Cathedral & Rockbeare Manor rockbearemanor.co.uk Photography Freckle Photography frecklephotography.co.uk Dress WED2B wed2b.co.uk Groom’s outfit Robert Simon masterdebonair.com/collections/robert-simon Hair Laura Bukin instagram.com/laurabukin Make-up Eye Do Makeup eyedomakeup.co.uk Flowers Flowers by Sophie Millington flowersbysophiemillington.com Cake Cherry Blossom Cakes cherryblossom-cakes.co.uk

8

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

LOVE WINS!

“We will treasure the experience for the rest of our lives.”

“We first met years ago at a friend’s 21st birthday celebration, but it wasn’t until many years later when we met again at the same friend’s wedding! We’ve been together now for almost four-and-a-half years,” says Heather.

“We really wanted a rustic wedding that we could share with all our family and friends. Our family is spread far and wide across the UK and the world, with siblings and close friends living as far as Australia and New Zealand. Having the whole wedding in one location for the day was important to us, which made The Oak Barn perfect. We had originally planned to have around 120 guests, with a threecourse meal, a horse cart gin bar and a 10-piece soul band in the evening.

As the enormity and gravity of Covid-19 set in, it became very clear to us early on that not only would our plans have to change, but we would need to be flexible and open-minded, as a wedding during these times might not be possible at all.

Given the turmoil the entire county was facing though, this seemed a relatively small price to pay in light of how other people’s lives were being affected.

We were fortunate that we were both of the same mindset as to what we were happy to go ahead with, if the wedding could go ahead at all. We feel like we’re still the same couple now as we were before the pandemic. The pandemic has just helped us to reconfirm what is important to us in life.

We always felt that the marriage was more important than the wedding, we just really wanted to share making that commitment with our family and friends.

We didn’t want to put our lives on hold

just because things wouldn’t turn out the way we had planned. If anything, the pandemic has encouraged us to appreciate and make the most of what we have, while we have it.

When the day finally came, it really was a wonderful experience, which we will treasure for the rest of our lives. We were incredibly fortunate that the restrictions eased in time for us to have 30 people at our ceremony and a small reception, the whole day became much more intimate than we had originally planned.

As readings and singing were prohibited during the legal ceremony inside, we added a ‘Ceremony Part B’ outside by the big oak tree where we had a few readings and read our own vows, which had never been part of the original plan!

As so many close family and friends couldn’t be there, we set up a zoom call and a video recorder so that we could share the ceremony in real time with everyone online. Instead of a three-course wedding breakfast inside, we had an outdoor picnic with individually boxed lunches for everyone. All our family pulled together to help with preparing and decorating the venue, and Katharine and John at The Oak Barn were incredible.

Whilst it was heartbreaking that we couldn’t share the day with so many of our family and friends, we are really glad to be married, to have made this commitment to one another. We hope that in a few years, when it is safe to have larger gatherings again, we can have a big celebration with everyone who couldn’t make it, and we can all enjoy the soul band and gin bar back at The Oak Barn!”

Venue The Oak Barn theoakbarn.co.uk Photography Smiley Happy Photography by Jodie Hardwick smileyhappy.co.uk Hair & make-up Hair & Make-up by Rebecca Jordan hairandmakeupbyrebeccajordan.co.uk Catering Rustique Fine Dining rustiquefinedining.co.uk The Ginger Cat Deli thegingercatdeli.co.uk Flowers Winsor Flower Studio winsorflowerstudio.co.uk

9

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

Editor Rebecca Matthews Deputy editor Lucy Higgins Chief features writer Hannah May

Rowe Films

Contributors Elizabeth Chester, Jennifer Granlund, Rebecca Green, Christine Jensen, Jessica Kearney Design Matt Sanwell, Design UNLTD designunltd.co.uk

Evolve Photography

Advertising and Management Brendan Sleeman Distribution Jenna 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 Hannah Barnes hannahbarnesphotography.com Location Higher Holcombe higherholcombe.co.uk Dress Charlie Brear, Lovely lovelybridal.co.uk Hair Natalie Nichols Bridal instagram.com/ natalienicholsbridal Make-up Sophie White sophiewhitemua.co.uk Model Mahalia Sobers, Gingersnap gingersnap.co.uk Flowers Bude Blooms budeblooms.co.uk Earrings Peacock & Pearl peacockandpearl.co.uk

Shield Media Services

Finance Morwenna Matthews

LOVE IN THE SOUTH HAMS An enchanting new wedding venue has opened its doors in an exceptionally beautiful corner of Devon’s rolling South Hams. 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 wild flowers.

Combining a sense of seclusion with a relaxed, back-to-nature feel, Hareston Manor is an eco haven with sustainability at the core of its ethos, including no single-use plastics, a strict recycling policy and the planting of thousands of trees. With a limited offering of 12 weddings per year, Hareston Manor’s exclusive bespoke weddings will ensure every detail is just perfect.

From elopements through to celebrations for 150 guests, the team at the venue works closely with couples to help them to create their dream day, with the choice of a ceremony in the picturesque grounds or the candlelit climes of St Martin’s chapel, which dates back to 1379. A ceremony at the manor entrance, immersed in the beauty of the time-honoured walls and mullion windows, roses and wild flowers, is another incredibly romantic option.

For the celebrations, choose from a marquee or stylish tipi reception to take advantage of the picture-perfect surroundings. Just imagine

© 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.

10

Devon

#45 2020

the magic of spending your first night as newly-weds in a luxurious yurt under a dazzling canopy of stars.

An array of options is available – including evening food such as a gourmet barbecue and hog roast, an open bar, fireworks and prewedding clay pigeon shooting – allowing couples to design a wedding celebration as individual as it is beautiful in this tucked-away corner of Devon. harestonwedding.co.uk

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

INN LOVE! As far as easy charm goes, The Lamb Inn has it in eye-catching abundance. Located in the scenic village of Sandford, the 16th century former coaching house is every bit as inviting on the inside as it is on the outside. Couples and their guests will be greeted by open fires, low ceilings and period features, making it the perfect choice for an intimate event where atmosphere and service are second-to-none.

Hosting weddings from four to 40 guests (or 75 for the evening buffet) and fully licensed for ceremonies,

the award-winning pub puts flavour first, creating sumptuous menus using local or home-grown produce,

STYLE

while local real ales are complemented by a world wine

18. WRITTEN IN THE STARS Starry-eyed details for an out-of-this-world wedding

list alongside a host of gins and ciders.

20. MINIMAL LUXE Simple and sophisticated gowns for a standout modern wedding

Exchange vows, celebrate and stay the night all under one roof for the most relaxed and atmospheric of W-days – or steal away to this picturesque spot in

26. MODERN LOVE Bold silhouettes, black tie style and boho accents equal cutting-edge cool

Devon for an elopement wedding. Privately exchange your vows in the Tap Room before indulging in a romantic dinner for two and retiring to the top of the end to an oh-so dreamy day.

32. WED’S WISH LIST Dream dresses, head-turning accessories and sostylish shoes

lambinnsandford.co.uk

36. SOMETHING NEW Our favourite fashions for modern brides

garden honeymoon suite for a secluded and stylish

Yeti Photography

56. LOVE CONQUERS ALL ‘Romeo and Juliet’ inspires a wedding rich in colour and romance 62. WORKING THE GROOM Style tips for the man of the moment 65. WED’S HIP LIST Fresh, fun and fabulous ways to style your day

Younger Photography

68. ONCE UPON A DREAM A modern take on pre-Raphaelite style for a gorgeously ethereal celebration

92. SHAPE OF OUR LOVE Dazzle your guests with bright hues, geometrics and oodles of foliage and flowers

FEATURES

6. LOVE WINS! Three couples share their post-lockdown weddings in Devon 46. YOUR PATH TO HEN ZEN How to steer clear of the classic hen party pitfalls 50. RULES OF ENGAGEMENT Creative and covetable engagement rings 52. WHAT’S IN A NAME? Confused about changing your name after marriage?

We look at your options 75. PLAN OF ATTACK How to whip your wedding to-do list into shape 78. OUR WANDERLUST WEDDING Inspiration for infusing a special country into your celebration 84. END ON A HIGH Spectacular send-off ideas for an unforgettable exit 87. A NEW DAWN The experts look at the future for post-pandemic weddings 97. WED’S VENUES GUIDE The ultimate guide to Devon’s finest wedding venues 110. MICRO MAGIC Inspiration for a wow-worthy micro wedding

REGULARS

10. BRIDAL BUZZ What’s new, what’s hot, what’s on 117. GOT WED Newly-weds share a glimpse of their day

WORDS OF LOVE

146. NOTES ON A WEDDING Top tips for your planning pleasure

“Love is friendship that has caught fire.” Ann Landers

11

z z u b l a ridTO bESCAPE regular | BRIDAL BUZZ

Emily Moya

THE COUNTRY

Nestled in Devon’s rural heart in the historic hamlet of Hittisleigh Barton, The Oak Barn makes an idyllic setting for a secluded and personality-filled celebration. Home to a trio of beautifully restored barns and glorious grounds, the venue has launched two packages for couples seeking an away-from-it-all setting for an elopement or intimate wedding.

The 18th century Acorn Barn, with its thatched roof, charming beams and cosy, self-contained accommodation, is particularly perfect for an intimate event. For those simply seeking a ceremony, the Elopement Wedding package (£600 for a midweek date) offers exclusive use of the barn’s kitchen, ceremony room and extra room – all with under-floor heating – for pre-wedding preparations, as well as the Bose sound system, followed by photos in the landscaped gardens.

For those keen to savour the rural romance a little longer, there’s the Elope and Stay Wedding package (midweek £950 / weekend £1,250 for two nights), which includes accommodation the night before and after the wedding.

What’s more, extra guests (with a maximum of 15 at £20 per guest), along with additional buildings and accommodation can be included to individually suit your W-day whims. theoakbarn.co.uk

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT

An awe-inspiring fireworks display is a tried-and-tested way to ensure your wedding has the wow factor. Mike and Michelle Glover of Sonic

Fireworks have built their business on “creativity, professionalism and passion for all things pyrotechnic”, and are the go-to guys for ensuring your fireworks are a beautiful bonanza of colour and celebration. For more than 20 years, the family-run business has been at the forefront of high-octane dazzling displays, ensuring your fireworks are stunning, safe and cleverly custom designed for your wedding.

Whatever your venue’s requirements, you’ll be safe in the knowledge that Sonic Fireworks can make something special happen. Specialists in pyromusical displays, the team use state-of-the-art computer software and firing systems to ensure your display has split-second timing to your chosen music – or, alternatively, ‘whisper displays’ with reduced noise and height shows for “all the wonder of fireworks but without the loud bangs high in the sky”.

Whether it’s filling the sky with dazzling colours, mesmerising music, huge hearts or even your initials, the team at Sonic Fireworks will ensure your big day draws to a breathtaking and beautiful close. And Wed Magazine readers get an extra 10% off a display, if you mention ‘WedMag20’ when booking before the end of 2020 (it can be for a display date in 2021 or 2022 but must be booked before the end of the year). Terms and conditions apply. sonicfireworks.co.uk

Paul Murfin

12

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

Jennifer Jane

#thatuptonfeeling

Nova

Clayton Jane

Upton Barn & walled garden

Cullompton, Devon www.uptonbarn.com info@uptonbarn.com 01884 38302

Nova 13

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

LOVE CONQUERS ALL If you’re seeking timeless romance for your big day, then Exeter Golf & Country Club’s Georgian manor house, surrounded by sweeping parkland, provides the soulstirring locale. The stunning stately home is situated on the edge of Exeter, merging picture-postcard pretty with convenience, stellar service and first-rate facilities – including a luxurious Elemis spa – to ensure a truly indulgent day.

The venue’s ‘Love Conquers All’ wedding package gives groups of 15 the opportunity to lavish in a small celebration while enjoying an array of top-notch features. For £2,499, couples will receive their own personal wedding planner, professional photography, their choice of a private ceremony and dining room (complete with chair covers and sash in their preferred colour scheme), along with food and drink for them and 13 guests including champagne, a four-course lunch or dinner, half a bottle of wine per person, and tea, coffee and petit fours. This package is

Simon Day

Helen Court

available for weddings before 31st March 2021. exetergcc.co.uk/wedding-for-15

THE SWEETEST THING There’s nothing quite like a wow-worthy wedding cake as a fabulous focal point for a wedding reception – and Claire Potts of Claire’s Sweet Temptations is a highly skilled and versatile cake designer, adept at creating sensational sweet centrepieces. From elaborate to intricate, playful to pared-back, her luxurious designs are as packed with personality as they are flavour. Although she works with each Freeformimages Photography

couple to create a perfect flavour combination, favourites include chocolate, sticky toffee, and lemon and elderflower sponge, with fillings such as vanilla Swiss meringue buttercream, salted caramel, pineapple cream, and chocolate ganache.

With so many couples now planning elopements and small-scale weddings, Claire has been busily crafting miniature masterpieces, ranging from simple bakes decorated with fresh flowers, edible flowers and her beautifully crafted sugar flowers to drip cakes and rustic designs. She has also launched a service to ensure that those unable to attend your day won’t miss out on the sweet stuff, as she’ll send a slice directly by post. Just imagine the pleasure of receiving a slice of custom-made wedding cake to your door. With bespoke at the heart of her approach, she’ll make your vision a reality while helping you create a thoughtful touch for your guests both present and absent. clairessweettemptations.com

14

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

PASTEL HAZE

STYLED WITH A KISS Planning a wedding can be anything from exciting and wonderful to time-consuming and stressful – and everything in-between – and one of the most discussed areas of planning is the styling. Choosing a wedding stylist means you can work with an expert to help create your dream vision, ensuring it looks every bit as magical as (or even better than) you imagined.

Nikki Sherriff of Knots & Kisses knows that fresh eyes and fresh ideas can really help take your wedding to a new level, and that venue styling isn’t simply about making things look beautiful. Every visual element shapes your guests’ experience, so purpose and function are important too, and she’s offering three styling services to help you finesse the look for your wedding.

‘The Style Experience’ will see Nikki working with you from concept through to completion, offering a comprehensive, bespoke styling experience designed to shape the overall look and feel of your wedding. Nothing is beyond her expertise, from large installations and jawdropping focal points to irresistible food stations and creative, comfortable seating areas.

Meanwhile, ‘The On-The-Day Edit’ takes the stress out of the big day itself, removing any décor set-up and styling tasks from your to-do list – perfect if you already have a design in mind and most of the styling supplies you need.

And as well as styling and design, there’s also ‘The Inspiration Session’, a consultation-only service for couples who need a little guidance or a big dose of inspiration – ideal if you want to do everything yourselves but don’t know where to start when it comes to creating a

For a styling brochure and to talk through Nikki’s offerings, email info@knotsandkisses.co.uk. knotsandkisses.co.uk

Clare Kinchin

cohesive, trend-led look for your wedding.

Holes in the World Studio

WITH A BANG Drinks by Post is the brainchild of the brilliant team at The Buffalo, whose sleek and shiny airstream bars are a mainstay at super-stylish weddings across the region. From country house celebrations to festival weddings, the bars are a key ingredient of a party to remember, stocked with seriously good drinks including supreme cocktails made with quality spirits, fresh ingredients and local produce wherever possible.

Perfect for anyone keen to create their own delectable drink mixes at home, Drinks By Post offers cocktail collections ranging from Gin Fizz to Tropical Tiki – and the team are now introducing a seasonal wedding must-have: Christmas crackers.

These eye-catching additions, like everything else in their repertoire, are far from standard – for these creative little accessories double up as both name cards and favours, adding the perfect finishing flourish to festive tabletops.

Each cracker contains a premium double measure cocktail (or white/dark hot chocolate stirrers for kids) and come complete with an acorn with instructions on how to grow a bottle tree. The crackers can be personalised in a number of ways, from card and ribbon colour to cocktail choice, with individual names handwritten in gold calligraphy. What’s more, being entirely plastic-free and recyclable means that they are also eco-friendly to boot.

Finished with organic, bamboo silk ribbon using natural plant dyes by Lancaster & Cornish, expect style and sustainability in equal measure for an extra fun factor to your day… with the obligatory gold paper crown included, of course! thebuffalo.co.uk/the-christmas-shop

15

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

PETITE AND BEAUTIFUL Located on the fringes of Dartmoor, Coombe Trenchard presents a

Clare Kinchin

picturesque and wildly romantic canvas for an individual wedding – and the Edwardian country house estate has now launched a ‘Petite & Beautiful’ package for couples seeking a small and secluded celebration where style and service meet breathtaking surroundings.

The exclusive venue’s dedicated wedding professionals will work tirelessly to provide a fully coordinated package for an intimate day replete with history,

Clare Kinchin

Venetia Norrington

elegance and country charm. Every detail and aspect will be meticulously planned to take the stress out of the organisation, from provision of their stunning westfacing principal suite for the pre-ceremony preparations to home-grown floral arrangements and the beautiful expanses of gardens, woodland and parkland in which to relish a post-wed wander and photographs.

Clare Kinchin

Just imagine canapés and celebratory fizz served in vintage champagne saucers in the Great Hall or beneath the wisteria-clad Clock Tower, then tucking into the finest of three-course feasts and a handmade wedding cake. Later, you might gather for signature cocktails and grazing platters in the pretty Peacock Bar. The day will be designed to showcase a host of spaces and flavours as you and your guests lavish in the exquisite estate and its first-rate offerings.

The ‘Petite & Beautiful’ package for up to 30 guests (dates subject to availability) is offered from £3,000 and includes features such as on-the-day coordination, a choice of 12 licensed locations, a private three-roomed wedding suite, three hours of photography, furniture, vintage linens, china, silverware, glassware, candles, an in-house music system and an overnight stay for the newly-weds including breakfast the next morning. Steeped in romance, you’re assured a small, stylish and oh-so special wedding in this gem of a venue. coombetrenchard.co.uk

HEAVEN IN DEVON What better way to celebrate becoming newly engaged, take some time out from the wedding planning or enjoy a special newly-wed supper for two than by taking advantage of Rockbeare Manor’s ‘Dine, Stay and Unwind’ promotion?

Having launched the post-lockdown project at the beginning of August, the venue has released a selection of new dates for the forthcoming season – including Christmas, New Year and Valentine’s weekend – to allow even more couples to experience the charms of this incredibly beautiful wedding venue set in beautiful parkland near Exeter.

For £280 per night (inclusive for two guests), there’s plenty of time after your 3pm arrival to explore the grounds, play billiards, table tennis and garden games, or simply relax with drinks in the Library or Drawing Room. Sup on pre-dinner Prosecco before sitting down for a fabulous three-course à la carte menu created using the finest ingredients and rounded off with coffee before you retire in style to one of their luxurious bedroom suites. Suitably refreshed and relaxed, tuck into a delectable breakfast the next morning before soaking up the manor and grounds, leaving with cherished memories of this exceptional corner of Devon. Gift vouchers are available for a super-special Christmas or Valentine’s gift. Keep an eye on the website for further information.

WEDDING SUPERSTITION Carrying the bride ‘over the threshold’ dates back to Medieval times when it was believed to prevent any evil spirits from entering the home.

rockbearemanor.co.uk

16

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

17

style | FASHION | WRITTEN IN THE STARS

written in the stars we’re starry-eyed over these out-of-this-world wedding details compiled by Rebecca Matthews

1.

2.

1. Shooting star embroidery meets a dawnlike lilac hue and dusting of clear sequins in this heavenly dress from Willowby by Watters. stivesbridalboutique.co.uk 2. These heavenly hair pins will bring lunar magic to your bridal locks. tillythomaslux.com 3. Scattered with stars, this dip-dyed ombré veil is handmade to order in a range of colours, from subtle to statement-making.

4.

5.

Hannah Barnes

6.

M and G Wedding Photography / Cake Where the Ribbon Ends / Styling Born Boho / Flowers Bloom and Bridal

3.

crownandglory.co.uk 4. Whether it’s the day of the proposal, the day you met or even the wedding day itself, Devon-based artist and goldsmith Isabella Day captures the stars in the sky at your exact special moment in time in these unique star map rings. isabelladay.co.uk 5. Available in gold, silver and rose gold, this cake topper brings starstudded charm to your wedding cake. suzanneoddydesign.com 6. These starry sky place names double as covetable wedding favours for your guests while bringing shimmer and sparkle to your tablescape. suzanneoddydesign.com 7. Star-encrusted heels were simply made for dancing under the stars!

7.

8.

9.

dunelondon.com 8. A glamorous nod to 1920s style, this giant golden star makes a stunning focal point for a stellar celebration. propfactory.co.uk 9. Inspired by constellations, this delicate hair vine and earrings are studded with Swarovski crystals, bringing a dusting of celestial sparkle to your W-day look. debbiecarlisle.com

10.

10. This stationery suite sets the tone for an elegant, celestial themed celebration. sincerelymay.co.uk

18

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

19

style | STYLING | PASTEL HAZE

MINIMAL LUXE Simple and sophisticated gowns styled with luxe jewels and beautiful botanicals make for a super-cool modern wedding photography & styling Hannah Barnes Photography

20

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

MINIMAL LUXE

21

style | STYLING | MINIMAL LUXE

For brides seeking no-fuss fashions, there’s a seriously stylish choice of simple, impeccably cut silhouettes in the latest bridal collections. This styled shoot exemplifies quite how striking a ‘less is more’ aesthetic can be – teaming minimalist dress design with stunning accessories and flourishes of botanical detail.

Charlie Brear’s fashion-forward dresses have long been the choice for brides with an eye for cool, modern style and stylish, pared-back gowns continue to be a mainstay in their latest collection, currently gracing the rails of Lovely in Honiton.

From sleek shapes and deep V-necks to softly draped backs, these incredibly chic dresses are a dream for brides seeking to make a statement with their own styling, whether it’s glamorous jewellery or glorious headwear – here, star-tipped crowns and headdresses of dried flowers ensure an all-eyes-on-you look.

The crisp aesthetic continues in the details, from the stationery with its elegant typography to the simple white cake adorned with hedgerow-inspired flowers.

Completing the look, the floral installation – a medley of grasses, foliage, shimmery lunaria and dainty flowers – makes a beautiful botanical feature against the bright white walls of Higher Holcombe – the delicate, organic beauty the perfect contrast to the clean, contemporary aesthetic of the setting.

22

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

MINIMAL LUXE

23

style | STYLING | MINIMAL LUXE

Photography & styling Hannah Barnes Photography hannahbarnesphotography.com

Venue Higher Holcombe higherholcombe.co.uk

Bridal wear Lovely lovelybridal.co.uk

Flowers Bude Blooms budeblooms.co.uk

Headdresses & earrings Peacock & Pearl peacockandpearl.co.uk

Necklaces Judith Brown Jewellery judithbrownjewellery.co.uk

Hair Natalie Nichols Bridal instagram.com/natalienicholsbridal

Make-up Sophie White sophiewhitemua.co.uk

Cake & biscuits Sarah’s Sugarcraft sarahssugarcraft.co.uk

Stationery Abbie Worton Design abbieworton.com

Wax seals Sweet Ophelia Designs sweetophelia.co.uk

Ribbons The Botanical Dyer instagram.com/thebotanicaldyer

Tableware Dunelm dunelm.com

Models Nish Klass, Yasarian Murfin, Mahalia Sobers & Tameisha Edwards, Gingersnap Models gingersnap.co.uk

24

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

Bee Lavish Inspired by the wild beauty of nature

___

Artisan Ceramic & Jewellery Designer Maker

Adornments & Fine Jewellery

w w w. b e e l a v i s h . c o . u k

www.clairessweettemptations.com

Specialising in creating beautiful bespoke wedding flowers for brides and venues across the South West.

www.francescarlisle.co.uk 07816 764047

www.emmahewlett.co.uk

07766 237975

25

style | STYLING | MODERN LOVE

modern love

26

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

MODERN LOVE

Planning a small wedding?

Then go big on glamour! Black tie style meets modern bridal fashions and boho accents in the romantic climes of Brickhouse Vineyard

photography Maxi Photography styling, design & coordination Nikki Sherriff, Knots & Kisses

Having a small wedding doesn’t mean you have to scrimp on style, as this super-chic styled shoot illustrates. With the dreamlike setting of Brickhouse Vineyard in south Devon as a backdrop – a venue as versatile as it is beautiful – the sky is the limit where it comes to styling your small big day.

“The inspiration for the shoot began with the beautiful venue,” says stylist and coordinator of the shoot, Nikki Sherriff of Knots & Kisses.

“Brickhouse Vineyard is the perfect location for small and intimate celebrations – but we wanted to prove that just because you are thinking small in numbers doesn’t mean you have to scale back on style or glamour! Even a small wedding can have a traditional black tux and beautiful flowers.”

Nestled deep in the Devon countryside, the rural location of Brickhouse Vineyard, together with its charm-filled 18th century Round House, are amongst its many romantic draws for couples. But, as Nikki asserts, this doesn’t have to dictate your wedding styling. “A rustic countryside venue doesn’t have to be paired with a rustic style,” she says. “Stunning modern dresses and statement accessories are still allowed!”

And here, clean lines and bold shapes take centre stage. The sleek silhouettes of the bridal gowns are teamed with dazzling details, from statement sleeves to intricate back detailing. Crafted in Devon, the accessories are just as head-turning: think headbands and earrings adorned with petals and so-cool fringing. Setting the mood, the groom’s dinner suit adds timeless yet coolly contemporary glamour and sophistication.

Boho accents are woven into this brilliantly creative take on black tie style. “We wanted to give a more glamorous take on the boho style with orchids, luxury origami inspired stationery, intricate cake design and streamlined silhouettes paired with boho rattan and dried flowers,” explains Nikki. From the striking geometric ceremony backdrop, punctuated with orchids and dried palm leaves, to the tablescape which so effortlessly echoes the red brick walls of the venue, the effect is captivating.

27

style | STYLING | MODERN LOVE

28

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

MODERN LOVE

29

style | STYLING | MODERN LOVE

Styling, design & coordination

Knots & Kisses

knotsandkisses.co.uk Venue

Brickhouse Vineyard

brickhousevineyard.co.uk Photography

Maxi Photography

maxiphotography.com Videography

Capture Weddings

captureweddings.co.uk Cake

Claire Makes Cakes

clairemakescakes.co.uk Flowers

Emma Hewlett

emmahewlett.co.uk Accessories

Claire Austin England claireaustinengland.com Stationery

Knots & Kisses

knotsandkisses.co.uk Hair

Sarah at EV Hair, Honiton evhair.co.uk Make-up

Sophie White

sophiewhitemua.co.uk Bridal wear

Georgia Bridal

georgiabridal.co.uk Groomswear

The Grooms Room, Plymouth the-wedding-company.co.uk/ grooms-wear/3628809 Peacock chairs & cutlery

Keeping It Vintage

keepingitvintage.co.uk Glassware & candlesticks

Glas Collection

glascollection.com Furniture

Virginias Vintage Hire virginiasvintagehire.co.uk Cutlery, glassware & dĂŠcor items

Keeping it Vintage

keepingitvintage.co.uk Sofa, table & chairs

Virginias Vintage Hire virginiasvintagehire.co.uk Rings & jewellery

Erin Cox Jewellery erincox.co.uk

Molten Wedding Ring Company

moltenweddingringcompany.com Models

Renie at Gingersnap gingersnap.co.uk

George Stahlmann instagram.com/ georgie_the_explorer

30

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

MODERN LOVE

31

style | wed’s WISH LIST

wed’s

From dreamy dresses to showstopping shoes, here’s our pick of the latest bridal must-haves words Lucy Higgins & Rebecca Matthews

wish list

SO LOVELY! Whatever your bridal fashion fancies, Lovely stocks a super-stylish gown to make your vision material. Home to some of bridal world’s most coveted labels including Hera Couture, Stephanie Allin and Wtoo by Watters, the Honiton boutique has recently taken stock of the latest collections from its other top designers, including Charlie Brear’s Desert Dreamers collection and Jesus Peiro’s Amalia collection.

From Charlie Brear, expect contemporary cuts which look as breathtaking alone as they do teamed with the designer’s new styling additions, from feather tulle to flower jacquard crepe, for a coolly individual look. Jesus Peiro’s new collection, meanwhile, embraces bold shapes through to soft silhouettes finished with playful and creative embellishment, as well as innovative sustainable fabrics.

Sustainable style is also key to Rembo Styling’s new Earth Hero collection, which has arrived at the boutique. Featuring fabrics such as Belgian hemp, organic cotton, recycled polyester and bamboo sourced from sustainable forests, the collection is boho chic at its most beautiful: think delicate floral lace, chic cut-outs and statement sleeves, perfect for free-spirited brides.

And that’s not all. The boutique is now a premier stockist for Rosa Clara, which means showcasing hand-picked selections from all of the celebrated Spanish designer’s collections: Rosa Clara Classic’s minimalist elegance, Rosa Clara Boheme’s artisan and boho chic designs and Rosa Clara Soft’s ethereal gowns. Expect everything from sheer skirts paired with intricate bodices, body-sculpting silhouettes, tattoo and open lace and seductive side slits for a breathtaking look. And as well as the tantalising variety of gowns gracing the rails, upcoming trunk shows will give brides-to-be the opportunity to browse an extensive selection of the latest collections. Visit the website for details of the latest events. lovelybridal.co.uk

32

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

wed’s WISH LIST

TRUE ROMANCE Hot on the heels of the bridal boutique’s relocation to Paignton, Pretty Smithy Bridal has more news for brides-tobe. The arrival of True Curves Bridal sees a new dedicated plus-size collection by True Brides offering dazzling gowns in sizes up to 36.

Designed in True Brides’ signature vintage-inspired style, the True Curves collection features a luxury construction that supports and enhances a woman’s shape to be naturally figure-flattering, with the addition of lengthened boning on the waistline to create the ultimate waist cinch.

And, of course, style is at the forefront of the collection, so each bride looks as incredible as she feels. From tulle ball gown skirts and Gatsby-inspired beading to delicate lace appliqués and plunging deep-V necklines, there’s no denying that each dress offers something special.

Add in waterfall capes, detailed full sleeves and fit and flare silhouettes, and you’re guaranteed to find something modern, elegant and oh-so stunning to fill you with confidence and radiance.

Add to that the other designers at Pretty Smithy Bridal – including Millie May, Lilly, Brighton Belle, Millie Grace, Angel B Curves, and White Rose Graceful – plus off-the-peg dresses from just £149, it’s well worth a visit to the beautiful new boutique. prettysmithybridal.co.uk

JUST ENGAGED? Team your dazzling engagement ring with this snug ‘Bridey’ sweatshirt – just perfect for cosying up with a cuppa and the latest issue of Wed! A collection of T-shirts, hoodies and tote bags in a gorgeous palette of colours are available from Six Stories. sixstories.co.uk

33

wed’s

style | wed’s WISH LIST

1.

2.

3.

1.

1.

1.

2.

2.

wish list

4.

5.

Enchanted Brides

6.

DARLING BUDS From the sweetest tulle frocks to tutus teamed with leotards, your mini maids will be guaranteed a chorus of ‘awws’ in these super-cute ensembles.

1. Dainty Dizzy daintydizzy.co.uk

Clare Kinchin

2. Six Stories sixstories.co.uk

PEARLY QUEEN Pearls are back in a big way. From pearl-encrusted capes to super-cool shoes, modern brides are wearing the lustrous classic in achingly hip ways.

1. Debbie Carlisle debbiecarlisle.com

34

2. Wanderlust Life wanderlustlife.co.uk

LOVE BIRDS

3. Wedding Converse wedding-converse.co.uk

With swallows symbolising love, loyalty and peace, these delicate jewels

4. Jimmy Choo jimmychoo.com

– handcrafted in Devon by Bee Lavish – make perfect finishing touches

5. Alice & Blair aliceandblair.co.uk

for a romantic W-day look.

6. Miss Clemmie missclemmie.co.uk

beelavish.co.uk

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

Photography by Venetia Norrington, Clare Kinchin & Alexa Poppe

An Exclusive Edwardian Country House Estate Unlike Any Other

coombetrenchard.co.uk • sarah@coombetrenchard.co.uk • 01566 783179 • Coombe Trenchard, West Devon EX20 4PW

35

style | DRESSES BRIDAL FASHION | SOMETHING | INTO THE NEWBLUE

something new From minimalist cuts to dazzling detailing, we’ve picked out our favourite fashions for modern brides words Hannah May Sottero & Midgley, Pirouette

36

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

SOMETHING NEW

Though the runways may have been conducted behind closed doors and viewed as virtual events, the industry remains as creative as ever, ensuring

Jesus Peiro, Lovely

Bridal fashion has not been left behind by lockdown.

that brides are treated to the latest to-die-for looks.

Versatility and individuality are the core components of the latest collections. Whether you’re waiting for the biggest of W-days with bated breath, planning an elopement or micro celebration, staging a sequel wedding (small ceremony now, big party later) or have only recently become engaged and are familiarising yourself with the newest fashions, amongst the emerging variety of trends you’re guaranteed to find something that’s both ‘you’ and in vogue. Here’s our top five trends for the modern bride.

Rosa Clara, Lovely

Charlie Brear.

LovelyPeiro, Jesus Lovely

Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal

Jesus Peiro, Lovely

Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal

Jesus Peiro, Lovely

True Curve, Pretty Smithy Bridal

True Curve, Pretty Smithy Bridal

Jesus Peiro, Lovely

DAZZLING DETAILING Spotlight-stealing looks are another lust-have, with a sense of the theatrical made material by eye-catching and attention-grabbing designs. Think colour (especially blue, grey, blush and pastel tones) and elaborate embellishment including pearls, crystals, and intricate embroidery, with sparkle and metallics making a dazzling comeback.

Showstopping styles are also incorporating a new take on glamour, particularly 1920s’ inspired glittering beadwork, chiffon streamers and mirror effect adornments.

Then there’s bows, whether oversized and belted, loose fitting and flowing offthe-shoulder, one of the latest additions: back bows or – better yet – bow spines, which provide the perfect way to update or customise any ensemble.

37

style | DRESSES BRIDAL FASHION | SOMETHING | INTO THE NEWBLUE Willowby by Watters, The Ivory Secret

ALL ABOUT LACE

Sottero & Midgley, Pirouette

Being such a bridal mainstay, it seems implausible that there could be anything new with lace, but upcoming collections present a revamped version of the oh-so romantic fabric that reset the swoon factor to an all-time high.

The latest dynamic way to wear lace isn’t simply how it looks, but centres on the feel and movement. Floral lace is a more textured affair, with laser-cut designs combining with soft 3D florals cascading down skirts in whimsical vines, while geometric lace, eyelet patterns and Chantilly lace with a scalloped trim all ensure a cuttingedge aesthetic for everyone from boho brides to new romantics.

Catherine Deane, The Ivory Secret

Lilly Pretty Smithy Bridal

Rebecca Ingram, Pirouette

Marylise, The Ivory Secret

Rebecca Ingram, Pirouette

38

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

SOMETHING NEW Willowby by Watters, The Ivory Secret

Rebecca Ingram, Pirouette

Rosa Clara, Lovely

Theia

Catherine Deane, The Bridal House of Cornwall

Anna Kara, The Ivory Secret

Jenny Packham, The Bridal House of Cornwall

Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal

Maggie Sottero, Pirouette

39

style | DRESSES BRIDAL FASHION | SOMETHING | INTO THE NEWBLUE

MINIMALIST CHIC

Maggie Sottero, Pirouette

Prefer something pared-back? No problem. Designers have honed in on the beautiful simplicity of the wedding gown, where a renewed focus on shape sees clean lines and sculpted styles garner effortlessly chic and understated results.

From easily customisable gowns (with detachable trains, sleeves and overskirts) and chic separates with post-wedding re-wear ability to perfectly cut silhouettes, an uncomplicated ease of self-styling has been pushed to the fore.

Flattering A-lines, sleek sheaths, fitted jumpsuits and sharp tailoring all nod to the modern minimalism movement. Pick a silhouette and let the lack of embellishment speak volumes about your unbound natural elegance.

Lilly, Pretty Smithy Bridal

Charlie Brear, Lovely

Charlie Brear, Lovely

Charlie Brear, Lovely

40

Devon

#45 2020

Marylise, The Ivory Secret

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

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.

01392 432643 www.pirouettethecollection.com

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

41

style | DRESSES | SOMETHING NEW Jesus Peiro, Lovely

Willowby by Watters, The Ivory Secret

Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal

Lilly, Pretty Smithy Bridal

Theia

Catherine Deane, The Bridal House of Cornwall

Rosa Clara, Lovely

Willowby by Watters, The Ivory Secret

Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal

THE FAIRYTALE FACTOR Sweeping, big-skirted gowns continue to appear in designer collections, with volume maintaining its position on the most-wanted list. But rather than swamping brides, light-as-air fabrics such as tulle create fresh, swirl-ready confections that are as flattering and fashion-forward as they are easy to wear.

Ballgowns are one of the hottest silhouettes within the fairytale trend, but there’s an array of options for today’s bride, from frothy frocks replete with ruffles to bohemian-inspired tiered skirts paired with a beautifully fitted bodice or silk camisole (with or without ornamentation for extra fairytale impact).

42

Devon

#45 2020

Jesus Peiro, Lovely

Willowby by Watters, The Ivory Secret

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

The Ivory Secret bridal boutique

Anna Kara . Marylise . Willowby-by-Watters . Catherine Deane . bespoke wedding gowns and more...

43

style | DRESSES BRIDAL FASHION | SOMETHING | INTO THE NEWBLUE

STYLISH SLEEVES

Rembo Styling, Lovely

It’s not a seismic shift, but there’s a definite move away from subtler styles in favour of statement sleeves. However, we’re not talking 1980s’ style puffball designs à la Princess Diana: it’s more of a timeless take on voluminous trends to consciously prevent brides from cringing at their choices in years to come.

Instead, picture bell and floaty styles that complement a range of dress choices.

Illusion sleeves, off-the-shoulder styles and short-capped sleeves lend interest to your look without detracting from the overall aesthetic, while detachable (especially illusion) sleeves transport you from the aisle to the dance floor with sartorial savoir faire.

Catherine Deane, The Ivory Secret

Maggie Sottero, Pirouette

Rosa Clara, Lovely

Rosa Clara, Lovely

Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal

Rembo Styling, Lovely

Anna Kara, The Ivory Secret

44

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

DESIGNER WEDDING DRESS BLOWOUT SALE 28-30 Dec 2020 Exeter 80 Designer Sample Wedding Dresses Sizes 10-18 Up to 75% OFF RRP £400-£800

book @ www.devonbridalsale.co.uk booking@devonbridalsale.co.uk 45

feature | YOUR PATH TO HEN ZEN

your path to hen zen From budget woes to banner dilemmas, here’s how to enjoy your hen do without falling foul of the common party pitfalls words Elizabeth Chester

Hen parties don’t need to be raucous (although raucous is fun!). However,

sorts to keep her on the straight and narrow during the planning and on your big day

wanting a classic, chic and grown-up tea party is one thing – but once you’re all

or night. Similarly, flaky friends might also need someone to guide them through the

together and people start talking about surprises and little extras, things can

rabbit warren of diplomacy, patience and compromise that can be required when

snowball pretty quickly. So whoever is organising your big night in or out, here

it comes to hen parties. Someone who has a tendency to be negative or less than

are some key things to quietly consider before you hit the hen party button.

generous needs to be reminded by a diplomatic hen that this is a celebration and not a chance for a big moan!

ALL FRIENDS TOGETHER

46

OK, let’s be honest – there’s sometimes one, isn’t there? One friend who has maybe

PINT-SIZE PORTIONS

been part of the gang for a long time but who, perhaps, you’ve grown apart from?

Yes, it’s a great day/night/weekend away and we all hope there will be bubbly galore.

Or someone who maybe always felt just a little bit less of a friend than the others?

But don’t go mad. Well, not too early anyway. No hen wants to wake up with no

No one wants a frenemy on one of the biggest occasions of their lives. So if there

memory of her big night out and the gift of the world’s biggest hangover. Depending

is a potential hand grenade of a friendship bubbling away with anyone, proceed

on the do, traditional drinking games could be replaced with a cooking class or

with caution when it comes to your guest list. Although it may not be possible to

exercise activity – we’ve even heard of hen party HIIT classes, so you can feel good

circumnavigate them entirely, it might be the case that you employ a chaperone of

before the champagne corks start popping!

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

YOUR PATH TO HEN ZEN

CROWD CONTROL

make sure your organisers are clear on budget from the very beginning. And not

Do mother-in-laws and teenage maids mix? Your spouse’s mum and your sister’s

just yours. Think ahead about anyone who may find a hen do abroad an over-

teenage daughter probably aren’t going to want the same things. If you have a

commitment on the funds front and plan accordingly.

large, eclectic group, rather than trying to cater to everyone’s tastes, it may be worth planning more than one bash for different age ranges or personality types.

YOU’RE THE BOSS

Adventurous sorts spanning the ages can certainly mix, so if everyone wants to

If you’re more Type A (highly organised, ambitious, competitive) than a relaxed-

go wild swimming, despite their age, then go for it. But would prim Aunt Doris

and-see-what-happens-on-the-day type, do you really want to leave control of this

and her achy hip really want to zip wire through the local forest with your

weekend to your university friend who perhaps doesn’t know you as well as you

triathlete-in-training niece?

remember? We know you said you’d be each other’s maid of honour back in the noughties under the glitter ball of the Wednesday night student bar, but… well,

FAR AND AWAY

times change. Decide early on if you are organising this or, if you’re happy to let

Budgets are big news when it comes to hen dos and pretty much dictate whether

your best girls take charge, don’t backseat-drive it. If they are in control, they are

you have a South African safari, a spa staycation, or a stay-at-home-and-swig-

in control. But if you know you’re not going to be able to sit back and see what

sparkling celebration – which will all be fun! If your hen is being planned for you,

happens, ’fess up early and take the reins.

47

feature | YOUR PATH TO HEN ZEN

BANNER BAN? When it comes to costumes and décor, we can all be on very different pages. So make sure you have the book open and the page earmarked from the very start. If you’re not a sashand-banners kind of girl, let them know. Your besties should already have a good idea of your décor style, but sometimes the excitement of an event can take over and, before you know it, you’re sipping drinks from phallic straws before you can say “I rather like Ming china”.

WHEN AND WHERE Save the dates were invented for a reason. Everyone’s diaries and calendars fill up early, so it’s best to start talking dates as early as you can. Don’t meticulously plan a hen party and then pick a date. You may be sorely disappointed when it comes to availability, so get the date in the diary early doors and, if that means clogging up your besties’ WhatsApp with messages about weekends next year, then so be it.

KEEP IT CONFIDENTIAL Some of your guests may remember a time when photography film had to be sent off to be developed. So make sure the rules about snapping and putting photos on social media are very clear from the outset. Auntie Elizabeth may be a governor at her local school and not want the world to see her dancing on a table in a feather boa. So think carefully and, seeing as these are your nearest and dearest, try to keep any photographs and videos between you. At least until you’ve all had breakfast together the next day, enjoyed a good giggle and deleted anything that you’d rather not see again.

48

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

T R E V ENNA

EXCLUSIVE USE W EDDI NG VENUE W W W.TREVENNA.CO.UK INFO @TREVENNA.CO.UK 01579 320013

BEAUTI FULLY ROMANT I C

SECLUDED CLUSTER OF B ARNS IN COR NWA LL

49

feature | RINGS | RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

You’ll find that when it comes to engagement rings, there actually are no rules – other than finding something so perfectly ‘you’ words Hannah May 1.

1.

1.

1.

2.

2.

2.

2.

3.

3.

3.

3.

Today, many couples will select their engagement

make all our jewellery to order, any changes to

collection is filled with beautiful D-colour diamonds,

rings together, either before or after the question

our existing designs are welcome,” explains Jamila,

the highest colour grade you can get. These are so

has been popped, to ensure that they are both a

who also raises the important issue of wearability.

sparkly and a firm favourite with our customers looking

part of the marital decision-making process from

“Ultimately, most people want to wear their

for engagement rings, while diamond clusters are

the outset. Often, the question-popper will present

engagement rings all the time, whatever they are

popular at the moment too.”

a plain ring with a view to having it customised or

doing. We tend to favour low settings, which reduces

redesigned after the event, or use a temporary ring

the chance of claws being caught on things and also

Exeter-based Erin Cox’s ‘hot off the bench’ creations

to swap for something altogether more bespoke.

makes them perfect for everyday wear.”

are synonymous with the one-of-a-kind movement.

Whatever route you favour for your engagement rings,

As far as making it ‘yours’, Justin specialises in

yellow and white gold alongside a selection of stones

one thing is certain – tailor-made and personalised are

beautifully unique pieces with personal significance,

including blue sapphires and diamonds, everything from

the buzzwords. Whether you achieve it through choice

from casting rings in sand taken from a special place

her amber-hued diamond teardrop band to her eye-

of metal, stone, design or personalisation, the region’s

to redesigning family heirlooms and incorporating

catching diamond tiara ring spell style and romance.

jewellery designer-makers are on hand to help you

meaningful design features. “There’s so much scope

hone and create your individual vision.

to personalise your ring, from choosing the beach

Designing rings from scratch, remodelling a pre-

sand that the gold is cast in, to secret engravings and

existing piece or using gemstones to customise a

“We work a lot with customer’s heirloom materials

symbolic gemstone choices. We are always up for

design all ensure that couples are a part of the creative

but realise not everyone is lucky enough to have

discussing different ideas with our customers and

process for results that are both meaningful and

them,” says Jamila Hirtenstein from Justin Duance

working out what is right for them,” assures Jamila.

bespoke. Each item is handcrafted in Erin’s signature

Presenting a mix of metals from platinum to fair trade

style to evoke “the feeling of the organic and raw

of one trend that guarantees sentimentality and the bespoke factor. “We now have a collection of vintage

If it’s style that you seek, then Plymouth-based

landscape it is inspired by”. From shape to stone, every

diamonds for customers to choose from. Each one of

Drakes prides itself on stocking the very latest trends

element combines for uniquely textured pieces that

these stunning stones is unique; hand-cut hundreds of

as well as traditional options to give couples a plethora

convey people and place to beguiling effect.

years ago, they sparkle in a slightly different way from

of fashion-forward yet timeless choice.

modern diamonds. We are so pleased to offer this more ethical option for those looking for something

“Solitaires never go out of fashion and remain a

a little bit different and special from their diamond.”

popular engagement ring choice. Our customers are liking the single solitaire with no diamond set

50

Couples preferring a personal design service can

shoulders, with either a four or six claw setting,”

request this option at Justin Duance. “Because we

observes Drakes’ Nikki Price. “Our Desire by Drakes

Devon

#45 2020

1. Drakes drakesjewellers.co.uk 2. Erin Cox Jewellery erincox.co.uk 3. Justin Duance Jewellery justind.co.uk www.wedmagazine.co.uk

www.moltenweddingringcompany.com 14 Castle Street, Exeter. EX4 3PT sales@moltenweddingringcompany.com 01392 660836 51

feature | WHAT’S IN A NAME?

WHAT’S IN A NAME? Changing your name is so much more than filling in a form or practising a new signature. wed looks at the issues involved in choosing a modern moniker words Christine Jensen

52

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Where we live, people are often known by the work they do: Sam the Painter, Jago the Boat, Dave Boots (he’s actually a plumber, but he wears distinctive boots when working), Anna Flowers, Lou Shoes and even Brendan Wed. Often, surnames can be surplus to requirement if a functional description overrides its need. It’s how it was at the beginning of civilisation. Yet since then, we humans have grown in number, and therefore have a need for more specialised names to differentiate which Anna we’re actually talking to or about. These names tell of our heritage. They help us to be understood, to order a taxi, book a hotel, receive a pay cheque, buy a house and sign a letter to the ones we love.

THE IMPORTANCE OF NAMES Why stress this point? Well, even though you’re more than the sum of the letters that make up your name, names have become humanity’s shorthand to connection and belonging. It’s the way we summarise people. All our successes, failures, learning and heritage exist under the name we more than likely inherited from our fathers.

It means those labels mean so much more than the sound they make and the knowledge they conjure.

Our name, both in the physical and virtual worlds, is in essence immortal. It will outlast each and every one of us. Which is why when it comes to changing your name, it’s not simply a matter of filling in a form or inventing a new signature. It’s a matter of power and significance. It’s a matter of identity, for discussion and collaborative decision-making.

BEHIND THE TRADITION The tradition of a bride taking her husband’s family name began a long time ago.

The Doctrine of Coverture was a set of laws derived from feudal Norman custom between the years 1000 and 1500, and formally written into British law in the 1700s.

The law dictated that a married woman’s identity was ‘covered’ by her husband’s, and he became her legal representative. The law meant that legally, a husband and wife became one person: the husband – meaning her husband in effect had complete legal and economic control, over her, any property or money she owned, further education she wanted to pursue and children they had.

The Coverture laws began to be dismantled during the late 1800s in the UK, but it was not until the 1970s that a woman (single or married) could get a mortgage outright without a male guarantor. And of course, not until 2014 did we see samesex marriage in the UK, which is why the history is all related to marriage between a man and woman.

ASSESSING YOUR OPTIONS Luckily, today’s etiquette is much more modern in its approach, and there are now multiple options when it comes to changing or not changing your name.

Still the most traditional option is for a woman to take her husband’s surname.

According to research conducted by YouGov in 2016, it remains our default setting, with almost 60% of women saying they would prefer to take their husband’s name rather than keep their own. Many decide to walk the traditional road for any children they may have. It’s a simpler path to have one family name and, as things currently stand, is the identity option that needs the least explanation. Although far less common, some men choose to take their wife’s surname, perhaps if she’s the last in the family line with her maiden name.

Another option is to both keep your own names. When it comes to passports, chequebooks, and every account you have online, keeping your name is a convenience some prefer, as well as preserving a level of independence. With a policy of no-change comes identity continuity. If you’ve been Jenny Goldstein at the office, your business or the hospital for the past few decades, you might prefer to maintain that identity for your clients, customers and colleagues. It’s also a show that one name (and therefore partner) doesn’t assume a level of importance or dominance over the other.

Option three is to both use both surnames, whether by double-barrelling or simply choosing which to come first, perhaps by choosing how they sound together rather

53

feature | WHAT’S IN A NAME?

than any kind of implied hierarchy. There are tricky aspects to double-barrelled names. Sometimes they can

WHY I CHOSE MY NAME

work (Brooke-Smith), and sometimes they can sound

We asked our readers to share their thoughts on changing their name

altogether wrong (Sharpe-Payne). And while a doublebarrel may be a good work-around for one generation,

“My husband loves my surname and doesn’t want me to lose it, so we are thinking of double-barrelling.”

it’s a questionable strategy for children of double-

Gemma Trewartha

barreled parents to make the same choice when it comes to their own wedding days.

“We merged surnames to make Blackmore-Squires. Firstly, there are no boys or men in my extended family meaning my maiden name would have died out when I got married if I’d just taken my husband’s name.

Keeping your maiden name as a middle name is a way

Secondly, we wanted our children to carry both of our names.” Vicky Blackmore-Squires

around retaining your family name while taking a new married name. Your partner might choose to take your

“I kept my maiden name as a middle name (by deed poll) as there are no boys to carry on the name. My

maiden name as a middle name too, so that you share

son also has it as a middle name. My grandfather was Latvian and I wanted to keep some of the heritage to

the same legal name with a nod to both family names.

my surname.” Lynda Stals Woodrow

Another common option is to use separate names

“Many moons ago, 33 years in fact, I took my husband’s name. It was the norm, but now, if I had

for separate purposes. For example, you could use

a surname I liked then I’d keep it!” Helen Edwards

one name for couple and family related matters, and another for work purposes. Just like juggling a

“I kept my surname – Bolitho – until we had our first born, then it felt right to change.”

business and personal account on Instagram, this can

Caroline Pellow

come naturally if you’re committed to an identity that segments different parts of your life. It can mean both

“My husband Matt and I both wanted to have the same surname when we got married. It was important

career continuity (in terms of how others relate to you

the surname was significant, so we chose Huntly after the town we were staying in in Scotland when we

at work), and the seclusion of having a private life and

got engaged.” Jon Huntly

identity that’s distinct from your working one.

“We both shared each other’s last name. He has a part of me and I have a part of him.”

An emerging option we’re seeing more of is to mesh

Molly Russell Bruce

surnames, a famous example being writer and TV Alan Law

presenter Dawn Porter who changed her name to Dawn O’Porter when she married actor Chris O’Dowd. Or you might both choose an entirely new surname in the search for a fresh and bold statement of unity and identity. This approach chooses an entirely new or letter-blended approach to your married name.

It’s something Alex and Tom did for their wedding at Lusty Glaze in 2019. “Not long after the speeches were over, we revealed our new chosen family name, which we asked our guests to help with by requesting a suggestion on the RSVP cards,” explains Alex. “We chose ‘Kerensa’, the Cornish word for love.”

CHECKLIST So you’ve settled on changing your name?

Here’s who you’ll need to notify HMRC Bank Local authority Passport office DVLA Employer Credit card companies Mortgage provider Pension provider Utility services Phone and broadband provider Student Loans Company Breakdown cover company Insurance companies Inland Revenue Doctor Dentist Gym

54

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

LUXURY WEDDI N G AND EVENT CATERING From marquees, tipis and yurts to castles, forts and manor houses, we provide fabulous food and impeccable service to give your special day the wow factor!

T: 01392 444877 www.posh-nosh.co.uk

55

feature | STYLING | LOVE CONQUERS ALL

LOVE CONQUERS ALL The greatest of love stories, ‘Romeo and Juliet’, inspires a wedding rich in colour, creativity and romance Verity Westcott Photography Out of the Ordinary Weddings by Hazel Parsons styling West Country Wedding Planner photography

coordination

56

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

LOVE CONQUERS ALL

57

feature | STYLING | LOVE CONQUERS ALL

58

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

LOVE CONQUERS ALL

‘Romeo and Juliet’, Shakespeare’s classic tale of two young star-crossed lovers, has inspired countless works of art over the centuries. One of our favourites is Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes, where the story plays out against a bold, modern landscape, the visual contrast adding to its captivating nature.

This styled shoot draws inspiration from this beautiful rendition. Located in Plymouth’s Royal William Yard and steeped in maritime history, Ocean Studios makes the perfect canvas for a Luhrmann-inspired take on Shakespeare’s play, the 19th century walls sitting alongside contemporary glazing, industrial features and modern art.

A bold colour scheme echoes the venue’s wall mural, serving as a striking counterpoint to the ethereal qualities of Juliet’s wings and the swirling embellishment and cascading tulle of her handcrafted gown. Blood-red roses evoke classic romance, while splashes of deep purple, a velvet table runner, burgundy napkins on a navy cloth with antique gold candlesticks and gold charger plates bring a timeless opulence to a tablespace ready for banqueting.

“We wanted to create a luxurious but bold look with the styling, adding layers of different fabrics, in keeping with the period of ‘Romeo and Juliet’,” says Gemma Halliwell of West Country Wedding Planner, who styled the shoot. “We added softer touches like the chiffon chair drapes in a deep purple colour, giving a romantic look, yet still in darker tones to reflect the passion and beauty of the theme.”

The Shakespeare references continue in the ‘love tonic’ favour bottles complete with heart wax seals, and the stationery featuring creative typography, a family crest and gold leaf accents. Then there’s the cake, which vividly encapsulates the theme with its bold splashes of colour, dagger and Juliet’s wings wrapped around a heart bearing the star-crossed lovers’ initials.

59

feature | STYLING | LOVE CONQUERS ALL

Photography

Verity Westcott Photography veritywestcottphotography.com Coordination

Out of the Ordinary Weddings

by Hazel Parsons outoftheordinaryweddings.com Styling

West Country Wedding Planner westcountryweddingplanner.co.uk Venue

Ocean Studios realideas.org Hire items

Abbotts Event Hire abbottseventhire.co.uk Flowers

Tide Flowers tideflowers.co.uk Cake

Claire’s Sweet Temptations clairessweettemptations.com Stationery

Rocha Designs rochadesigns.co.uk Bridal wear

Christine Trewinnard Couture christinetrewinnard.co.uk Groomswear

Zebel Bespoke zebel.co.uk Hair

Yoke the Salon yokethesalon.co.uk Make-up

Your Beautiful Day UK yourbeautifuldayuk.co.uk Models

Danielle Osborn, Macauly Stainer

60

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

Truly Delightful Bespoke creative wedding Bespoke creative wedding Bespoke creative wedding The Decidedly Decidedly Different The Different A p ri l 2 0 17 Truly Delightful Bespoke creative wedding Bespoke creative wedding Pynes House Bespoke creative wedding The Decidedly Decidedly Different The Different April 2017 Bridal planning & styling planning & & styling styling ! planning Bridal planning & styling planning & styling planning & styling A romantic country house in the beautiful Exe Valley, just three miles from Exeter.

29-30

i

Vintage Vintage Wedding Fair 29-30 11am-4pm

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

11am-4pm

Boutique Boutique Totnes Marquee hire Accessory hire Accessory hire Totnes Accessory hire Accessory hire Styled shoots Styled shoots www.bellabellabridal.co.uk

BJames, RIDWELL PARK, Madeline Isaac Madeline Isaac James, the Day’ coordination ‘Onthe the Day’ coordination ‘On McKenzie Brown‘On Photography C UDay’ L L O M P Tcoordination ON EX15 3BU B R I D WIsaac E L L P A R James, K, Maddy Bridal by Madeline Maddy BridalThe by Madeline Isaac James, ‘On the Day’ coordination ‘On the Day’ coordination ‘On perfect the Marquee hire hire for you to celebrate your perfect day. #CBUDay’ OL H TMarquee RNOEW Thire L OOyear-round MRPETcoordination OMarquee X 1E5D3FBEUS retreat MGNY, Sacha James and Callista H OU S E MGNY, Sacha James Marquee hire # B O H Oand R E TMarquee R Callista O W E D F E S T hire

Wedding Fair

Accessory hire Accessory hire Styled shoots Styled shoots Exeter.

www.bellabellabridal.co.uk

Styled shoots A romanticinfo@bellabellabridal.co.uk country houseStyled in theshoots beautiful Exe Valley, just three miles from www.clairessweettemptations.com www.clairessweettemptations.com info@bellabellabridal.co.uk SATURDAY 16 & SUNDAY 17 JANUARY 2016 SATURDAY The 16 & perfect SUNDAY 17651001 JANUARYretreat 2016 for you to celebrate your perfect day.

01752 year-round 01752 651001 SATURDAY 17 JANUARY 2016for 11AAMM-4 -4PPMM •16 •16 X&EESUNDAY TEERRWe A S T L E E X 4 3 P U SATURDAY 17 JANUARY 2016 11 EEX& TSUNDAY CCA S T L E E X 4 3 P U We create special memories for We create special memories create special memories for VENE

TIA

VENE

NO

TIA

RR

NO

IN

G

T O T S N , S RP S T EO N , CO RP S V E T & N E CO YLOR LVAE N & YLOR TA UR LA TA LIP EN UR LIP HIL T, G EN HIL A, P E N ETV, IG EEVNEE S A T H A T H A , P VIEVE S

RR

IN

G

UILY SILY IC & DA 11AAMM-4 -4PPMM •• EEXXEETTEERRWe A Especial U AENIMDA 11 CCA SSTTLLEpeople EEXX44 3&3& PPNwe’d U TR We create special for AN TR Ememories T E R T EN Nlove M ECE Nfor Tto Sto create memories CE AN wonderful people we’d wonderful love arty

TENTS, TIPIS, DOMES & YURTS SHOWCASE TENTS, TIPIS, DOMES &B Y AU RR E TF SO OS TH O W C A S E C AT W A L K BAREFOOT CBAETAWUATLYK BOUDOIR BEAUTY BGORUODOOMI RS R O O M

M U SILY IC & DA £2 geteteaapparty ts DA £2 ILY VVinintatage TR AN TR TS ET RRTEEN AEEN ITlove Nlove EO NCE Sto AN FM O DTto & en ts CE wonderful peoplespecial &E Nwe’d we’d m en ty h wonderful people & ar m es ty p h fr create something special for you. a ar es re p te fr create something for a d £2 re ge te an d £2 ta ge T E A P Ayou.

RTY ininta VVan ts S T R E E T F O O D & en ts m en h m es h11th createsomething somethingspecial specialTfor for you. create anddrerefrfres11th an E A BPOAyou.

Romantic HROT Y& Romantic RETRO castle century 11th Romantic castle century 11th wedding gowns and more...

Romantic e . Louise Bentley . bespoke S T YBLOI SHTOS && S U PR P EL TI ERROS castle century castle century STYLISTS & hairir&& up ha pup Po pPo GGRLOAOMMPSI NRGO VO IML L A G E ur D E M SOUS P&P LTIAELRKSS & pa ir&ur harlo irrlo auup up tytypa ha beppau Po be Po G L A M P I EXCLUSIVE N G V I L L A Grlo E ur D E M O S & TA L K S ur SPA PACKAGES parlo ty pa auty be au be Vint age musicic Vint age mus Vint &ente ente agertain rtain musmen Vint & ic tsts age mus icmen entertain rtain &&AN ente men 01803 863583 men agee tsts EXPERIENCE vivintntag StStylylisishhUNFORGETTABLE 01803 863583 rs e lie rs imageFreckle ag pp eMain lie ag 8 The Plains pp hvidvidntnt susu hire sp isisire Mainimage FrecklePhotography, Photography,left leftimage imageSelway Selway Photography, ylyl sp StSt Photography, inin rs lie rs pp lie su 8 The Plains pp d su ire d sp Main image Freckle Photography, left image Selway Photography, ire right image The Vintage Wedding Photographer in sp Main image Freckle Photography, left image Selway Photography, TOTNES, TQ9 7DR image The Vintage Wedding Photographer in QUOTE right ‘BUBBLES’ rightimage imageThe TheVintage Vintage WeddingPhotographer Photographer TOTNES, TQ9 7DR right Wedding

ce

We create people special&memories wonderful we’d lovefor to wonderful people & we’d love to create something special for you.

CH ILD CH ILD RERE NNFRFR EEEE

CH ILD CH ILD RERE NNFRFR EEEE

Photography Photo by: Claire KinchinKinchin Photography by: Claire Kinchin Photography by: Claire PhotoPhoto Photo by: Claire Kinchin Photography

MAKE YOUR HEN PARTY A MEMORABLE ONE. TO RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY BOTTLE OF PROSECCO association with In In association with

create something special for you.

Main image Freckle Photography, left image Selway Photography, Main image Freckleright Photography, imageWedding Selway Photography, image Theleft Vintage Photographer right image The Vintage Wedding Photographer

www.trulydelightful.co.uk www.bluefizzevents.co.uk www.bluefizzevents.co.uk www.bluefizzevents.co.uk Stylish accommodation in thewww.trulydelightful.co.uk heart of Bath, with www.bluefizzevents.co.uk www.bluefizzevents.co.uk shop@trulydelightful.co.uk www.bluefizzevents.co.uk relaxing spa packages and award winning restaurants www.mckenzie-brown.com www.bluefizztentsandevents.co.uk www.bluefizztentsandevents.co.uk www.bluefizztentsandevents.co.uk www.bluefizzevents.co.uk shop@trulydelightful.co.uk www.bluefizzevents.co.uk and bars to sample.

A perfect city for a perfect party. www.bluefizztentsandevents.co.uk www.bluefizztentsandevents.co.uk www.bluefizztentsandevents.co.uk www.bluefizzevents.co.uk www.bluefizzevents.co.uk E: enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk E:enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk E: enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk 07845www.pyneshouse.co.uk 147563 natalie@mckenzie-brown.com enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk | | 07845 147563 www.francescarlisle.co.uk www.francescarlisle.co.uk info@pyneshouse.co.uk 01392 431 403 E: enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk E:enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk info@pyneshouse.co.uk www.pyneshouse.co.uk 431 403 E: enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk | 07845 147563 12 Allhalland Street, 01392 Bideford, Devon EX39 2JD Tel: 01237 237210 enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk | 07845 147563 BLUEFIZZEVENTS.CO.UK | BRIDWELL.CO.UK | ENQUIRIES@BLUEFIZZEVENTS.CO.UK | 07845 147563 T: 07845 147563 T:07845 07845147563 147563 BlueFizz FizzEvents Events @bluefizzevents bathboutiquestays.co.uk YOU’RE WELCOME T: Blue @bluefizzevents Now stocking 764047 07816 764047 07846 590458  BLUEFIZZEVENTS  BLUEFIZZEVENTS  BLUEFIZZEVENTS  BLUE FIZZ@bluefizzevents EVENTS | BRIDWELL.CO.UK | ENQUIRIES@BLUEFIZZEVENTS.CO.UK | 07845Enzoani 147563 Email07816 hello@champagneandcharlotte.co.uk T: 07845 147563 T:BLUEFIZZEVENTS.CO.UK 07845 147563 BlueFizz Fizz Events T: 07845 147563 Blue Events @bluefizzevents www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 863583 www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 863583 association with In In association with

Now stocking Enzoani

 BLUEFIZZEVENTS  BLUEFIZZEVENTS  BLUEFIZZEVENTS  BLUE FIZZ EVENTS

ecidedly Different

www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 863583 www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 01803863583 863583 www.trulydelightful.co.uk

MGH WedMag 225x154mm v1.1 OLP.indd 1

16/02/2017 12:20

Blue Fizz - Bridwell Advert 154x110.indd 1

04/01/2017 15:35:36

Blue Fizz - Bridwell Advert 154x110.indd 1

ntage

04/01/2017 15:35:36

Sayhihi Say

Your special day, our special venue

Madeline Isaac Isaac James, James, Madeline Maddy Bridal by Madeline Isaac James, James, Maddy Bridal by Madeline Isaac MGNY, Sacha James and Callista MGNY, Sacha James and Callista

edding Fair 494840 07979494840 Rach--07979 www.bellabellabridal.co.uk Rach www.bellabellabridal.co.uk 494840 07979494840 Rach--07979 Rach info@bellabellabridal.co.uk info@bellabellabridal.co.uk 387181 07812387181 Lisa--07812 Lisa 01752Lisa 651001 387181 07812387181 Lisa --07812 01752 651001

MadelineIsaac IsaacJames, James, Madeline Isaac James, Madeline Isaac James, Madeline Madeline Isaac James, Madeline Isaac James, Madeline Isaac James, Maddy Bridal by Madeline IsaacJames, James, Madeline Isaac James, Maddy Bridal by Madeline Isaac James, MaddyBridal Bridal byMadeline Madeline Isaac James, Maddy by Isaac Maddy Bridal by Madeline Isaac James, Maddy Bridal by Madeline Isaac James, Maddy Bridal byMadeline Madeline Isaac James, MGNY, Sacha Jamesand and Callista Maddy Bridal by Isaac James, MGNY, Sacha James and Callista MGNY, Sacha James and Callista MGNY, Sacha James Callista MGNY, Sacha James and Callista MGNY, Sacha James and Callista MGNY, Sacha James and Callista MGNY, Sacha James and Callista

www.bellabellabridal.co.uk www.bellabellabridal.co.uk www.bellabellabridal.co.uk www.bellabellabridal.co.uk www.bellabellabridal.co.uk www.bellabellabridal.co.uk Luxury Spa Breaks, www.bellabellabridal.co.uk www.bellabellabridal.co.uk info@bellabellabridal.co.uk info@bellabellabridal.co.uk info@bellabellabridal.co.uk info@bellabellabridal.co.uk info@bellabellabridal.co.uk info@bellabellabridal.co.uk info@bellabellabridal.co.uk info@bellabellabridal.co.uk 01752651001 651001 01752 651001 01752 651001 01752 01752 651001 Spa Treatments and 01752 651001 Love lives here 01752 651001 01752 651001 W www.cutmeoffaslice.com www.cutmeoffaslice.com W Love lives here The prettiest spot W www.cutmeoffaslice.com www.cutmeoffaslice.com The prettiest spot W The prettiest prettiest spot The spot e facebook.com/cutmeoffaslice Beauty Salon with facebook.com/cutmeoffaslice SATURDAY 14 & SUNDAY 15 facebook.com/cutmeoffaslice facebook.com/cutmeoffaslice t h e g r e a t b a r n d evon in Devon in Devon in Devon in Devon D A DAIL ILY Champagne Service YDeane . Louise Bentley . bespoke EN . Louise Bentley . bespoke weddingYYgowns and more...

NT Simply Breathtakingly Beautiful TR E Annasul Belle Bunty Catherine wedding gowns gowns and and more... more...

JANUARY 2017 RA Annasul .. Belle && Bunty .. Catherine . Louise Bentley . bespoke wedding AN NDeane CE

Hotel Endsleigh Hotel Endsleigh Hotel Endsleigh Hotel Endsleigh ForHotel all Endsleigh your

ForEXCLUSIVE all your 11AM-4PM SPA PACKAGES EXETER C ASTLE bridal dreams...

EX4 dreams...

3PU bridal MAKE YOUR HEN PARTY

CE Annasul YY .. Belle Belle && Bunty Bunty .. Catherine Catherine Deane Deane Louise Bentley Bentley .. bespoke bespoke wedding wedding gowns gowns and and more... more...

Annasul .. Louise ££22 C H CH ILD DR HILD REEN N FFR REEEE

In association association with with AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE In

www.bluefizzevents.co.uk www.bluefizzevents.co.uk QUOTE ‘BUBBLES’ enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk TO RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY BOTTLE OF PROSECCO

A MEMORABLE ONE.

EXCLUSIVESPA SPAPACKAGES PACKAGES EXCLUSIVE SPA PACKAGES EXCLUSIVE SPA PACKAGES EXCLUSIVE

200feet feetof ofrose rosewalk, walk,100 100acres acresof ofglorious gloriousgarden, garden, 200 200feet feetof ofrose rosewalk, walk,100 100acres acresof ofglorious gloriousgarden, garden, 200 17pretty prettyrooms, rooms,10 10Champion Championtrees, trees,88rolltop rolltop 17 17pretty prettyrooms, rooms,10 10Champion Championtrees, trees,88rolltop rolltop 17 bathtubs, handpainted paintedwallpapers, wallpapers, AN UNFORGETTABLE UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE bathtubs, 33hand AN EXPERIENCE bathtubs, handpainted paintedwallpapers, wallpapers, AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE bathtubs, 33hand AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE lavishwedding weddingweekend. weekend.

11lavish lavishwedding weddingweekend. weekend.

11lavish

MAKEYOUR YOURHEN HENPARTY PARTY MAKE YOUR HEN PARTY MAKE YOUR HEN PARTY MAKE QUOTE ‘BUBBLES’ QUOTE ‘BUBBLES’ QUOTE ‘BUBBLES’ ‘BUBBLES’ QUOTE AMEMORABLE MEMORABLE ONE. A MEMORABLE ONE. A MEMORABLE ONE. A ONE.

TORECEIVE RECEIVE COMPLIMENTARY BOTTLE OFPROSECCO PROSECCO TO AACOMPLIMENTARY BOTTLE OF Milton Abbot, Devon Tel: Tel: 01822 870000 Milton Abbot, Devon 01822 870000 Dartington Hall combines medieval grandeur, natural beauty, exceptional food and comfortable accommodation, and our TORECEIVE RECEIVE COMPLIMENTARY BOTTLE OFPROSECCO PROSECCO TO AACOMPLIMENTARY BOTTLE OF Milton Abbot, Devon Tel: 01822 870000 Milton Abbot, Devon Tel: 01822 870000 Gaia Spa, Boringdon Hill, Colebrook, Gaia Spa, Boringdon Hill, Colebrook, experienced team are committed toheart makingof your wedding your lives.

Our award-winning can host hotelendsleigh.com Stylish accommodation in the Bath, withthe most special day of hotelendsleigh.com Stylish accommodation invenue the heart ofBath, Bath, with Stylish accommodation in the heart of with 07845 147563 07845 147563 hotelendsleigh.com hotelendsleigh.com Stylish accommodation in the heart of Bath, with Stylish accommodation in the heart of Bath, with weddings of all shapes and sizes, with flexible packages allowing you to create the wedding you want.

We also welcome and cater for Plymouth, Devon relaxing spa and award winning restaurants Plymouth, Devon 01822 870packages 000 relaxing spa packages and award winning restaurants 01822 870 000 relaxing spa packages and award winning restaurants 01822 870 000 relaxing spa packages and award winning restaurants 01822 870 000 relaxing spa packages award winning restaurants civil weddings.

Contact our experienced Wedding Co-ordinator on 01803 email bookings@dartingtonhall.com bars to sample.

A perfect for aNorth perfect party. and bars tosample. sample.A Aand perfect city for perfect party. @hotelendsleigh and bars to perfect city for aaperfect party.

Theand Sandy Cove Hotel is situated on thecity stunning Devon Coast & its847145 unique or location makes the PL7 4DP

PL7 4DP PL7 4DP @hotelendsleigh The Sandy Cove Hotel is situated on the stunning North Devon Coast & its unique location makes Blue Fizz Events Events @bluefizzevents andbars bars tothe sample.A Aperfect perfectcity city for perfectparty. party. @hotelendsleigh and to sample. for aaperfect Blue Fizz @bluefizzevents @hotelendsleigh whole dayunforgettable, unforgettable, from yourWedding Wedding Ceremony, reception &through throughtoto your evening Dartington Accommodation and Catering Services Ltd. (Dartington Hall) isthe a subsidiary of & The Dartington Hall Trust and all contributionswwww.gaiaboringdon.co.uk support the activities of wwww.gaiaboringdon.co.uk whole day from your Ceremony, totothe reception your evening The Trust (registered charity no. gardens 279756) bathboutiquestays.co.uk YOU’RE celebrations.

Setininbeautiful beautiful withbreathtaking breathtaking SeaWELCOME Viewscreating creatingthe theperfect perfect setting foryour your bathboutiquestays.co.uk YOU’REWELCOME WELCOME t: 01647 e: info@thegreatbarndevon.co.uk www.thegreatbarndevon.co.uk bathboutiquestays.co.uk YOU’RE celebrations.

Set gardens252552 with Sea Views setting for 01752 01752 344455 344455 www.sandycove-hotel.co.uk bathboutiquestays.co.uk YOU’REWELCOME WELCOME www.sandycove-hotel.co.uk bathboutiquestays.co.uk YOU’RE www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 01803863583 863583 Wedding.We Wealso alsooffer offerAffordable AffordableExclusive Exclusive Useofof863583 theHotel, Hotel,grounds grounds&&facilities. facilities. www.trulydelightful.co.uk Wedding.

Use the www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 863583 01271 882243 www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 863583 01271 882243 Tres_wed_ad.indd 149 Tres_wed_ad.indd Tres_wed_ad.indd149 88 Tres_wed_ad.indd 88 Tres_wed_ad.indd 149 Tres_wed_ad.indd Tres_wed_ad.indd149 88 Tres_wed_ad.indd 88

61

16/05/2016 13:28 16/05/2016 22/05/201513:28 09:18 22/05/2015 09:18 16/05/2016 13:28 16/05/2016 22/05/201513:28 09:18 22/05/2015 09:18

feature | GROOMS | WORKING THE GROOM

WORKING THE GROOM Groomswear takes an elemental stance as earth and water inspire coolly relaxed tailoring and individual accessorising words Hannah May & Rebecca Matthews

1.

Grace Elizabeth

2.

4.

3.

NATURAL SELECTION If you’re keen to channel an effortlessly stylish look on your big day, then earth inspired hues are a good place to start. Look to the landscape for inspiration:

5.

6.

7.

6.

think sage and forest greens, stone, sand, ochre and brown for a coolly closeto-nature vibe.

Don’t be afraid to mix up your fabrics and colours, whether it’s a tweed jacket with a pair of chinos or a linen jacket with a good pair of jeans. Ditching the tie is a winner for nailing that laidback look or perhaps forgo the jacket altogether and rock a tweed waistcoat? We love the simplicity of a sandy hued suit teamed with a white shirt for a summer wedding, or earthy brown paired with green accents for a countryside celebration. Don’t forget to accessorise with a foliagefilled buttonhole and individual touches, whether it’s statement footwear, a contemporary tie, boho-cool braces, personalised jewellery or even a hat.

1. Torre at Cornwall Suit Room cornwallsuitroom.co.uk 2. ASOS asos.com 3. Burton burton.co.uk 4. Thom Sweeney thomsweeney.com 5. Moss Bros. moss.co.uk 6. Ferguson Nash fergusonnash.co.uk 7. Skopes skopes.co.uk

62

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

WORKING THE GROOM

1.

MARINE DREAMS

1.

2.

Stamp an oceanic vibe on your big day look with a set of cufflinks inspired by the sea. Evoking place and aesthetic via mini masterpieces of wearable art, marine cufflinks provide all the cool you’ll need to complete your outfit: think sea-worn textures, undulating patterns and bespoke detailing.

Hannah Louise Lamb’s coastline cufflinks sketch the outline of a particular coastal stretch, meaning that you can wear your heart – and the sea – on your sleeve by picking a place of personal significance, be it your wedding venue, favourite seaside haunt or proposal location.

3.

For a fabulous feel-me addition, Justin Duance’s sandcast cufflinks come in a variety of designs and precious metals with stunning natural texturing – you can even provide the sand of your special beach for a bespoke and meaningful twist.

Joseph Lamsin’s handmade cufflinks are cast in seawater to create a beautifully

4.

organic rippling effect, while Plastic Oceanic’s striking creations are made from unrecycleable plastic collected from Cornish beaches.

1. Hannah Louise Lamb hannahlouiselamb.com 2. Plastic Oceanic plasticoceanic.com 3. Justin Duance justind.co.uk 4. Joseph Lamsin josephlamsin.com

Samye Hatfield

Samye Hatfield

WILD WOOD 3.

Land and sea comprises an endless source of inspiration for designermaker Justin Duance, his standout jewellery combining the natural textures of wood and sand with ethically sourced precious metals. His wood wedding rings strike a stylish, elemental chord, the rich grain and tones of the wood contrasting beautifully with the metal of choice, from silver and gold to titanium and palladium. While you can provide your own wood, Justin can also source from old boats, local orchards

Samye Hatfield

or even old furniture. And with sustainability at the heart of his ethos, these stylish rings are a savvy choice for eco-conscious grooms, too. justind.co.uk

63

atkinsonart@icloud.com

“It “Itwas wasaaperfect perfectday, day,no nodoubt doubt enhanced enhancedby bysuch suchaaglorious glorioussetting” setting”

“It “Itwas wasaaperfect perfectday, day,no nodoubt doubt enhanced enhancedby bysuch suchaaglorious glorioussetting” setting” Bickleigh Castle An English Historical Landmark

Where Wedding Dreams Do Come True!

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.

tt hh ee gg rr ee aa tt bb aa rr nn dd ee vvtt o ho en hn e gg rr ee aa tt bb aa Simply Simply Breathtakingly Breathtakingly Beautiful Beautiful

Simply Simply Breathtakin Breathtakin

Whether minutes away Whetheryou youchoose chooseaacivil civilwedding weddingininour ourlicensed licensedhall hallor oraachurch churchwedding weddingfive fiveWhether minuteswalk walkchoose awayininaC15th C15th you Whether you choose acivil civilwedding weddingininou o St Andrew’s Church, the timeless atmosphere of the Hall and Manor will make the setting for a great party.

St Andrew’s Church, the timeless atmosphere of the Hall and Manor will make the setting for a great party.

St Andrew’s Church, the timeless atmos St Andrew’s Church, the timeless atmo

www.manorhallweddings.co.uk 07710 506 www.manorhallweddings.co.uk 07710252552 506999 999 t:t:01647 www.thegreatbarndevon.co.uk www.manorha 01647252552 252552 e: e:info@thegreatbarndevon.co.uk info@thegreatbarndevon.co.uk www.thegreatbarndevon.co.uk www.manorha t: 01647 e: t: 01647 252552 e:info@thegreatbarndevon.c info@thegreatbarndevon.

Bickleigh Castle, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 8RP | 01884 855 363 | weddings@bickleighcastle.com bickleighcastle.com BC_Wed_mag_Sept2019_154x225.indd 1

Your day, like no other.

Your Yourdream dreamwedding weddingday dayisisjust justaround around the thecorner cornerand andour ouraward-winning award-winningCountry Country House HouseHotel Hotelisisthe theperfect perfectplace placeto tohost host it.

With 4 AA stars, 3 AA rosettes and it. With 4 AA stars, 3 AA rosettes andaa backdrop backdropof ofDevon Devonand andCornwall’s Cornwall’sfinest finest natural beauty, you couldn’t ask for natural beauty, you couldn’t ask foraa better bettersetting. setting.

Your YourBig BigDay Daywill willbe becarefully carefullytailored tailoredto to your yourhopes hopesand anddreams, dreams,then thenserved servedwith with fabulous fabulousfood foodand andplenty plentyof ofspecial specialtouches touches to make it all the more memorable. to make it all the more memorable.

Call CallJulie Julieand andEmma Emmaon on01822 01822832528 832528 and start planning your perfect and start planning your perfectday. day.

Gulworthy, Gulworthy,Tavistock, Tavistock,Devon DevonPL19 PL198JD 8JD www.thehornofplenty.co.uk www.thehornofplenty.co.uk weddings@thehornofplenty.co.uk weddings@thehornofplenty.co.uk

National NationalSmall SmallHotel Hotelof ofthe theYear Year Visit VisitEngland England --Silver SilverWinner Winner2015/16 2015/16

64K11852 Devon #45 2020 Wedding Advert Update.indd

K11852 Wedding Advert Update.indd 11

18/09/2019 11:00

Your day, like no other.

Your Yourdream dreamwedding weddingday dayisisjust justaround around the corner and our award-winning the corner and our award-winningCountry Country House HouseHotel Hotelisisthe theperfect perfectplace placeto tohost host it.

With 4 AA stars, 3 AA rosettes and it. With 4 AA stars, 3 AA rosettes andaa backdrop backdropof ofDevon Devonand andCornwall’s Cornwall’sfinest finest natural beauty, you couldn’t ask for natural beauty, you couldn’t ask foraa better bettersetting. setting.

Your YourBig BigDay Daywill willbe becarefully carefullytailored tailoredto to your hopes and dreams, then served with your hopes and dreams, then served with fabulous fabulousfood foodand andplenty plentyof ofspecial specialtouches touches to make it all the more memorable. to make it all the more memorable.

Call CallJulie Julieand andEmma Emmaon on01822 01822832528 832528 and start planning your perfect and start planning your perfectday. day.

Gulworthy, Gulworthy,Tavistock, Tavistock,Devon DevonPL19 PL198JD 8JD www.thehornofplenty.co.uk www.thehornofplenty.co.uk weddings@thehornofplenty.co.uk weddings@thehornofplenty.co.uk

Devon Year Devon Wedding Venue the DevonSmall SmallHotel Hotelof ofthe the Year Devon Wedding Venueof ofDevon theYear Year Small National of Year Devon SmallHotel Hotelo NationalSmall SmallHotel Hotel ofthe the Year Devon South DevonTourism TourismAwards Awards2014/15 2014/15 SouthWest WestWedding WeddingAwards Awards2016 2016 Visit VisitEngland England --Silver SilverWinner Winner2015/16 2015/16

K11852 K11852Wedding WeddingAdvert AdvertUpdate.indd Update.indd 11

Devon DevonTourism TourismAward Awar

www.wedmagazine.co.uk 26/04/2016 26/04/2016 11:42 11:42

feature | wed’s HIP LIST

wed’s HIP LIST Fresh, fun and fabulous ways to add a unique touch to your day words Lucy Higgins & Rebecca Matthews

GREEN DAY Whether you’re thinking of throwing a green wedding or adding a lush look to your day, Fuss Pots will ensure a fabulous foliage-filled event. From simple yet elegant touches to striking installations, ornamental tree and plant hire, and full floristry services, Hannah Burge of Fuss Pots delights in expertly bringing the outdoors in to mesmerising effect. Covering the south-west, Hannah works closely with each couple to achieve a unique aesthetic, making your vision spring to life with artistic flair and signature style. fusspots.co.uk

GUESTS OF HONOUR Enshrining notes of love from your nearest and dearest, guest books make for a wonderful wedding memento. But how often are they shut away in a drawer, perhaps only looked at on your anniversary? That’s why we absolutely love Once Upon a Tuesday’s guest book calendar! Guests are asked to sign their birthday on the correct date, then after your wedding, you not only have a forever keepsake, but when you hang the calendar somewhere

SHELL SEEKERS

in your home, you can keep adding birthdays

These striking shell place settings by Devon-based The Whole Caboodle couldn’t be more perfect for a

and special dates. With extra pages for special

wedding on the coast. Choose from super-pretty pink scallop shells, sea-worn mussel shells, pearlescent

messages from guests, it makes for something

oyster shells, and transparent capiz shells edged with luxe gold leaf and threaded with silk ribbon. All

useable, year after year, as well as a poignant

beautifully hand-scripted, they make an elegant addition to an ocean-inspired celebration as well as

reminder of all the loved ones in your life.

covetable keepsakes for your guests.

onceuponatuesday.co.uk

caboodle.wedding

65

feature | wed’s HIP LIST Peboryon

MINI MARVELS These miniature bakes might be small in scale – but they’re big on style and flavour! And how about individual his and hers’ cakes filled with your favourite fillings?

Claire’s Sweet Temptations clairessweettemptations.com Emily Hankins emilyhankins.co.uk Peboryon peboryon.com Porsham Cakes porsham.co.uk Porsham Cakes

Emily Hankins

Claire’s Sweet Temptations

Peboryon

Claire’s Sweet Temptations

Freeformimages Photography

66

Devon

#45 2020

HEAVEN SCENT Perfect for scenting your venue or gifting as favours, these soy candles are scented with the deliciousness of a Devon cream tea. Hand poured and made with natural soy wax, they feature heavenly notes of your favourite Devon treat, from luscious clotted cream to sweet raspberry jam. homecountycandleco.com

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

WED’S HIP LIST

RETRO ROMANCE We love the vintage charm of South Devon based artist Becky Bettesworth’s posters, which are so reminiscent of 1930s’ style railway posters. And the latest addition to her collection, this dreamy ‘Endless Love’ poster – inspired by the romantic sands of Cornwall’s Lusty Glaze beach – will make a gorgeous addition to your love nest. beckybettesworth.co.uk

A MASTER STROKE Modern calligraphy is a creative and mindful craft, and there’s no reason you can’t learn it from home with Calligraphy by Kiki’s brush lettering starter kit.

Combining all the essentials you’ll need – including a Tombow dual brush black pen, Kiki’s brush lettering worksheet guides, a premium A5 practice pad and two blank cards – you’ll learn via a virtual workshop with Kiki herself, so she can guide you through the process. Once you’ve mastered the art, you can put your skills to the test to create your own wedding stationery, signage and décor. calligraphybykiki.com

TASTE OF THE TROPICS Why not treat yourself to a Tropical Tiki box from Drinks By Post? The

SAY IT WITH CERAMICS!

collection contains everything you need to create five fruity and fabulous

How adorable are these ceramic place names? New from Rocha Weddings,

cocktails at home. Whether it’s for a fun date night or a gathering with your

each one is unique and hand cut, and available in a wide range of colours and

bridesmaids or grooms’ party, savour those tropical flavours while doing vital

designs. Whether it’s for a tea party, garden wedding or rustic-chic affair,

research for your W-day drinks menu!

these beautifully individual creations will make for a super-sweet keepsake.

drinksbypost.co.uk

rochadesigns.co.uk

67

feature | STYLING | ONCE UPON A DREAM

once upon a dream

Hareston Manor makes the most captivating backdrop for a modern pre-Raphaelite reverie of rusts, greens and ethereal touches photography

Shield Media Services Nikki Sherriff, Knots & Kisses

styling, design & coordination

68

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

feature | STYLING | ONCE UPON A DREAM

69

feature | STYLING | ONCE UPON A DREAM

Having recently opened its doors for weddings, this styled shoot showcases the extraordinarily beautiful potential of a celebration at Hareston Manor.

Tucked away amidst the rolling hills of the South Hams, the Jacobean manor house marries a palpable air of historic charm with enchanting scenery: think sweeping avenues of trees, manicured gardens sweeping down to a lake, and winding lanes brimming with primroses, violets and campions in the spring.

“Hareston Manor, with its 14th century chapel and gorgeous grounds, was the perfect backdrop for beautiful printed marquees by LPM Bohemia,” explains stylist and coordinator of the shoot, Nikki Sherriff of Knots & Kisses.

With its timeworn stone walls and period features, the venue’s rich sense of history is beautifully contrasted with an evocative colour combination and styling for a laidback modern wedding. “The aim of the shoot was to create a modern take on a preRaphaelite sensibility with beautiful handcrafted touches and ethereal looks paired with an autumnal Arts & Crafts colour palette of pale greens and rich rusts, touches of fruit and William Morris prints,” says Nikki.

“We followed the day right through from getting ready and an intimate family-only ceremony in the chapel to a larger blessing on the lawn, celebrations in the drinks tent, a grazing food reception and beautiful outdoor seating and firepits.”

Abundant with foliage and fruit, the tablescape is a vision of natural beauty and enchanting hues, the beautiful canvas print of the tent echoing the harmonious aesthetic of William Morris’s work. The rich colours weave their way through details such as the stationery and the flowers adorning the work-of-art cakes through to the groom’s suit.

Embracing the warm palette with her gorgeous floral headdress, the bride embodies a modern take on pre-Raphaelite style with her billowing sleeves, abundant bouquet and soft hairstyle woven with vine-like jewels. Meanwhile, colourful dishes of grazing food arranged on rustic pallets and Kilner jars filled with mulled apple cider add vibrancy and flavour to the most memorable of celebrations in this exceptional setting.

70

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

ONCE UPON A DREAM

71

feature | STYLING | ONCE UPON A DREAM

72

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

style | BRIDAL FAS

1.

MOUNT HAVEN SHOOT

ONCE UPON A DREAM

Styling, design & coordination Knots & Kisses knotsandkisses.co.uk

Venue Hareston Manor harestonwedding.co.uk

Marquees LPM Bohemia lpmbohemia.com

Photography Shield Media Services shieldmediaservices.co.uk

Cake Daisy Molly & Me daisymollyandme.com

Flowers Thorn Flowers thornflowers.uk

Plants Fuss Pots fusspots.co.uk

Linen 88 Events 88events.com

Stationery Knots & Kisses knotsandkisses.co.uk

Hair The Updo Girl theupdogirl.com

Make-up Laura Le Page lauralepagebridalmakeup.com

Dresses Olivia Hooper Bridal oliviahooper.co.uk

Accessories Hermione Harbutt hermioneharbutt.com

Groom’s outfit ASOS asos.com

Tableware & props Keeping It Vintage keepingitvintage.co.uk

Furniture Virginias Vintage Hire virginiasvintagehire.co.uk

Rings & jewellery Erin Cox Jewellery erincox.co.uk Molten Wedding Ring Company moltenweddingringcompany.com

Catering & food Eran’s Kitchen eranskitchen.co.uk

Celebrant Fanfare Ceremonies fanfareceremonies.co.uk

Models Hannah Fisher hanfisher.com Adam Watson instagram.com/adamdwatson

73

2021 dates still available

74

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

feature | PLAN OF ATTACK

plan of attack Whip your wedding to-do lists into shape and be a party-planning pro with these top tips words Elizabeth Chester

Pens, notebooks and spreadsheets at the ready!

Wedding planning can hurl endless thoughts and

P is for Prepare

will naturally fall away as you realise they aren’t

From plentiful ideas from friends and family offering

compatible with the way your day is developing.

ideas at you and, although all have a place at

their pearls of wisdom to Pinterest throwing up

Gothic black candelabra centrepieces do look

weddings in 2021 and beyond, not all of them

suggestions you couldn’t even have pronounced

stunning online but in reality are they going to work

have a place at your wedding. So when it comes to

before you got that sparkler on your finger, wedding

at your midsummer bash? Once you pinpoint the

perfecting the art of planning a wedding, don’t let

planning can deliver you absolutely everything you

more left-field ideas, you can then begin to trim

the amount of ideas out there overwhelm you.

need and plenty of ideas you didn’t even know you

your list down to something more helpful and

needed. We suggest, when beginning any to-do list,

manageable.

Couples in the know need to be able to wade through all

you indulge as many ideas as possible. We know that

the wedding inspiration, deciding as they go what does

sounds counterintuitive but don’t panic.

and doesn’t work for their day. Whether you’re trying to

As the ideas begin to melt away, a clear theme or an order of importance should begin to emerge and this,

put together your guest list, collate ideas for your bridal

The trick lies in not trying to whittle down your

dear brides and grooms, will be the beginnings of your

look, organise after-dinner games or are simply going

options before you’ve even begun. Start your lists

effective planning strategy. Once your lists start to take

for broke and trying to plan an entire three-day wedding

big and write down or pin or stick or like every

shape, bingo, you have a way in and you can begin to

extravaganza from scratch, here’s how to create to-do

idea that gives you even a glimmer of interest. This

manage all your to-dos without feeling utterly confused

lists that are lean, mean, effective planning machines.

way, you can explore all your options and some

and overwhelmed.

75

feature | PLAN OF ATTACK

L is for Liaise The next stage of shaping any of your planning to-do lists even further is to start to speak to suppliers. Many ideas look great on paper or on screen but if your supplier can’t supply your day for whatever reason, that’s a sure-fire way to help take your to-do list from terrific to tricky.

By speaking to suppliers and organising to meet them or view their work, you’ll also be able to start to prioritise who you have a preference for working with. Not all suppliers match all brides and grooms-to-be, after all.

And it’s not just personality styles; there’s no point in potential ideas and suppliers filling up your to-do lists if they can’t deliver on your dates. So speak to suppliers to see if their sense of style and availability aligns with yours.

If it doesn’t, you can lose some serious bullet points from your planning lists, leaving you with fewer ideas to contemplate and more time to focus on the people who suit your style and are available on your wedding date.

A is for Amend A planning to-do list isn’t a planning to-do list if it hasn’t been edited within an inch of its life. Whether you’ve covered your notebook in Post-Its, got thousands of notes started on your iPhone or you’re on version 147 of your Word doc, the best-laid plans are rarely the first ones. So you’ve booked the caterers but then a friend of a friend mentions a roaming popcorn crew for Prosecco o’clock? Don’t be afraid to rewrite your list to accommodate your popcorn crew. And don’t be afraid to change your mind. Sometimes, good ideas are spawned from not-so good ideas. The more you explore (see Prepare), the more you’ll know what you do and don’t want in the end. A fully explored idea is better than a quick consideration that you might then go back to later for further consideration. Give yourself the time and space to amend your ideas and hopefully you’ll have looked at every idea from every angle and then, if that idea still doesn’t work for you, you know you can lose it forever.

N is for Nail it So if you’ve followed our rules so far, then you should have binged on ideas, spoken to suppliers and gone back-and-forth with new additions and omissions from your to-do lists. But now’s the time to nail it. Hopefully you’re no longer just swimming in a sea of endless wedding ideas, mulling over things you’ve already considered weeks ago, unable to remember why you did or didn’t like something. Your final to-do list should now be a lean and considered inventory, not your previous musings of maybes and oh-I-just-don’tknows! So plan this way and you should have easy-to-manage to-do lists that are compiled of things you really, really want. And no one wants a manageable to-do list more than a perfectly planned bride-to-be.

76

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

Daisy Floral Design,

Weddings and Events www.thevelvetdaisy.co.uk helen@thevelvetdaisy.co.uk 07790692221

IMAGE BY THE UNBRIDELED

Unique, intimate wedding venue in Devon. www.brickhousevineyard.co.uk 77

feature | OUR WANDERLUST WEDDING

our wanderlust wedding Thinking about choosing travel as your wedding theme? Here are some ideas to bring a taste of a special country to your big day words Lucy Higgins Whether you got engaged on the shores of Lake Garda or met in a shoestring backpackers’ hostel in Australia, chances are you might want to honour part of your story at your wedding. From food to favours, we’ve compiled some creative ideas for incorporating some much-loved countries into your day.

78

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

OUR WANDERLUST WEDDING

down a storm at Katrina and Curtis’ wedding, in homage to Katrina’s Italian family travelling over for the wedding.

Thanks to its associations with romance, we’ve seen many gorgeous weddings with elements inspired by

Jennifer and Stuart’s wedding also incorporated nods to

Italy; Jen and Henry, for example, who got engaged

Italy, most strikingly via the groom’s party. “We all rocked

in a garden in Rome, wove details of the country

a casual Italian look with white jeans, a pale blue shirt, navy

throughout their big day. “With the proposal and

blazer and Italian pocket squares,” explains Stuart.

Hareston Manor Weddings

ITALY

our love of Italian cities in mind, we had a subtle “How about an Italian espresso martini after dinner

Henry stylishly arriving in his best man’s Maserati

instead of the usual tea and coffee,” suggests wedding

Granturismo,” says Jen.

planner Jenny Granlund, of Jenny Wren Weddings & Events (jennywrenweddingsandevents.co.uk). “It will give guests

Table names were some of the couple’s favourite spots in

the pick-me-up they need after a meal, as well as bring in

Rome, with the top table being the garden where Henry

some Italian flavour to the day.” And if you’re looking for

proposed. They embraced the theme further with Italian

more inspiration, don’t ignore the amazing cuisine of the

wines, Prosecco and Moretti beers. Homemade limoncello

country, perhaps with a pizza station in the evening, or

favours were a popular addition too, something that went

mini pasta boxes to keep your guests’ energy levels up!

Wild Tide Creative

Italian theme running through the day, including

USA The USA is renowned for its epic landscapes, characterful cities and, of course, its creative foodstuffs, so it’s no wonder that couples draw on elements of American culture for their weddings.

Ashleigh and Greg were holidaying in America when Greg chose their scenic surrounds as the prime location to pop the question.

As a result, there were nods to the country throughout their Cornish wedding. “I love fall in America, so there were a lot of pumpkins, squashes and food to match; that was the main inspiration for our wedding,” says Ashleigh.

Playing on the American theme, Krispy Kreme doughnuts became a statement feature, along with traditional candy corn. “They added a great look and most people hadn’t heard of them before so it was something fun for people to try. I also made pumpkin pies and candy apples because I wanted more of a Thanksgiving sweet table and stuff you wouldn’t normally see at a wedding!”

As well as doughnuts and candy corn, there’s another sweet surprise that Jenny Granlund has seen popping up at local weddings: s’mores stations! “We created this American classic for one of our US couples last year,” she says. “They heated the marshmallows on firepits, then wedged them between a sandwich of Golden Grahams crackers with a Hershey’s chocolate on top. Guests loved it and the table looked really pretty at night with lots of candles and fairy lights.”

She also recalls the wedding of an American bride in Fowey.

“She had a real love of the American-style cookies, so we arranged for a local bakery to freshly bake five different types of cookies each morning (over the whole wedding weekend) and we displayed them on a ‘cookie station’ at the hotel reception for guests to help themselves to!”

Another couple, Megan and Brendan, took their former home as their inspiration, too. It was while Megan was living in New York that Brendan took the opportunity to pop the question at one of the city’s most iconic locations – Central Park – Clare Kinchin

during a Christmas visit. In a nod to the moment, the couple served woodfired s’mores including baked cookies, toasted marshmallows, honeycomb, popping candy and salted caramel.

79

feature | OUR WANDERLUST WEDDING

FINLAND Known for its snowy vistas, breathtaking national parks and deliciously warming food, the Nordic country provides oodles of inspiration for a stylish wedding, as it did for Cat and Tommy.

“Due to work schedules and Christmas, we had our honeymoon before our wedding – an amazing snowy holiday to Finland,” explains Cat. “On our return, we promptly made some changes to our winter wedding to include some of the Finnish food and drink that we’d loved so much.”

She says: “We switched our welcome drink to Glögi, which is the Finnish version of mulled wine, and ordered lots of Piperkakut – authentic Finnish gingerbread cookies – for guests to enjoy as they arrived at our venue.”

They also added some new décor elements to their English winter wedding, intermingling ivy, holly berries and mistletoe with faux fur pelts.

Thomas Frost

PORTUGAL Having lived in the south of Portugal while working at a surf school, Connor knew he wanted to honour the country at his wedding to Mary. “Even though she’d never been to Portugal, lots of our guests coming to our wedding were friends I’d made out there, so it was important to us both to have little touches throughout the day,” he says. “Our table names were a combination of our favourite beaches both there and in Cornwall, where Mary is from, and we asked everyone to write a piece of advice to us on a cork (Portugal is a big cork producer), which we saved in a big bottle to smash open on our anniversary.”

Rosie and Liam also themed their wedding around the things they love, including many elements from their campervan travels and a menu featuring pastel de natas (Portuguese custard tarts) that they had freshly baked and delivered on the day. You could treat your guests to further Portuguese specialities such as frango piri piri (chicken piri piri), caldeirada (fish stew), or even doce fino de Algarve (marzipan sweets) for favours.

80

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

Marry. Party. Eat. Retreat.

Weddings at Deer Park can be limitless; stay an extra day or two (…. or three!) and shape your own bespoke wedding retreat. Time here is elastic.

C E R E MO N IES CAN TAKE PLACE I NSI DE OR OUT, PARE D DOWN OR TUR N E D UP. EVERY OCCASI ON I S A SENSORY E XP E RI E NC E AND E AC H B R E ATH-TAKI NG SPACE YOURS TO PERSONALIS E .

D EER PARK CO UNT RY HO USE. T: 01 4 04 41 2 66. D E VO N . E X 1 4 3 PG .

WWW. D E E R PA R K .CO.U K

CO N DÉ N AST JOHANSENS WI NNER 2020: ‘B E ST FO R WEDDI NGS, PARTI ES OR SP E C IA L OCCASI ONS! /

81

feature | OUR WANDERLUST WEDDING

AUSTRALIA As a gap year favourite and must-visit on many a round-theworld ticket, many couples wish to incorporate their fond memories of Australia into their wedding day.

“Australia will always be a special place for us as it’s where our story began, so we honoured that in a few ways at our wedding,” says Flora of where she met Jamie. Their ‘lolly bar’ consisted of classic Aussie sweets, including Red Frogs, Violet Crumble Bites and Caramello Koalas, as well as “the Byron lighthouse at the top of our cake, and wine from a Hunter Valley vineyard,” says Flora.

Josh Harkon

For Sophie and Trav, not only is Australia Trav’s homeland, but it was during a trip there that Trav proposed. Their wedding took an “Australia meets Cornwall” theme, with a surf competition, a barbecue and a cricket match on the beach, as well as a surfboardstyle guestbook.

Australia is home to some of the world’s leading bridal brands so donning one of the gowns is a gorgeous way to honour the country.

A laidback barbecue smacks of Aussie style and a pre-ceremony surf or post-ceremony game of cricket would be bonza!

Josh Harkon Verity Westcott

Venetia Norrington

MEXICO A country that’s renowned for bringing the fiesta, a Mexicaninspired wedding will be one of delicious food, refreshing cocktails and, of course, a whole lot of colour!

Venetia Norrington

“We had pretty much every colour imaginable and all the decorations, including the piñatas, were made by myself, my family and friends. It was a colour feast for the eyes!” says Elise, who opted for a Mexican-style fiesta reception at her wedding to James.

As well as the décor, they also incorporated fun details such as fake moustaches and rocket balloons along with live music from the Mariachi Kings and a tasty Mexican-style feast.

Venetia Norrington

Katie and Tom also embraced Mexican cuisine at their wedding, with sharing platters of enchiladas and barbecue pulled jackfruit, and sides such as black beans, Mexican rice, Mexican slaw, queso blanco and tomatillo guacamole.

And, of course, pairing delicious food with exotic drinks is something Mexico does only too well – how about a mojito to wash down your nachos or tacos?

also created a ‘slammer station’ for tequila slammers throughout the evening – salt, tequila, lime… It really got people in the mood!”

82

Devon

#45 2020

Verity Westcott

Or you could celebrate like Elise and James to really bring the fiesta: “We

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

83

feature | END ON A HIGH

END ON A HIGH From piñatas to paper aeroplanes, bring your big day to an unforgettable close with these spectacular send-off ideas

PAPER AEROPLANES

words Elizabeth Chester illustrations Maria Taylor

a reliable guest on hand to collect them afterwards!

All too often, it gets towards the tail end of your amazing day, the DJ or

We’ve seen some stunning scene-stealing photographs of guests tossing beautifully

band let you know the last song’s coming up and then… that’s it. The lights

crisp autumn leaves of all shapes and colours ranging from russet reds to radiant

come on, and off you go. But there are plenty of ideas to end the day on

yellows. A wedding day later in the year could be the perfect backdrop for guests

a high and send you off into married life with a huge smile on your face.

to scatter and throw tumbling leaves; even better if the colours of the season match

Confetti, rice and rose petals are all traditional ideas for a big send-off,

your theme or you have some autumnal accents running through your day.

while coffee beans are climbing the ranks as a trendy way to say goodbye, and party-finishing favourites include bubbles, sparklers or glow sticks.

Here are some of our favourite ways to finish your big day with a bang (and a fantastic photo opportunity!).

84

Devon

#45 2020

We love the idea of guests whizzing paper aeroplanes towards a departing bride and groom, sending them on their honeymoon and marriage journey together in style.

These could always be adorned with messages of good luck and best wishes for your life together like a mobile wishing tree or guest book. Just make sure you have

AUTUMN LEAVES

WILD FLOWERS & HERBS If you’re throwing a summer bash, have your guests scatter dried wild flowers of every summery shade and even fragrant summer herbs like mint, rosemary

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

END ON A HIGH

or lavender from paper cones as you leave. This is certainly a super-pretty and deliciously scented way to exit your day.

HELIUM BALLOONS Guests clutching white helium balloons that are released as you leave the reception would create a magical backdrop. If it’s a surprise, your photographer will be able to capture the look of awe and wonder on your faces as well. Just make sure you choose ecofriendly, biodegradable balloons please!

HOT OFF THE PRESS PICS Whizz-kid photographers and videographers may be able to make this one happen so find out early if it’s a possibility. Imagine an exit against a backdrop of images, a slideshow or video montage from the big day that hasn’t even finished yet! Hot-off-the-press, neverseen-before reportage snaps of beaming faces and silly moments from just hours before would make a magical, tear-jerking exit and will have your guests begging for the party to never end.

HANDHELD BELLS

RIBBON WANDS Ribbon wands in a kaleidoscope of rainbow colours will

A selection of antique handheld bells given to your

be sure to make the most beautiful photographs – and

guests could be the most magical and rousing sound to

your smaller guests will love them! Or, for a surprise,

help you make your big exit. These can either be rung

organise a dance troupe to perform a rhythmic ribbon

alongside the church bells should you be marrying in a

dance while you make your colourful exit.

place of worship, or simply rung out by your guests at the end of your reception in an unarranged symphony.

Cow bells could also be used if you’re tying the knot in

POM-POMS Small, soft pom-poms in your chosen colour

a rustic setting.

scheme could be thrown as you leave the church.

SNOWFLAKES

throw all the colours in groups at the same time,

Or artistic types could coordinate a mass effort to

If the weather isn’t choosing to be seasonal on

creating a floating rainbow effect that, hopefully,

your winter wedding date, there’s nothing stopping

could be captured on film.

you creating a magical snow-filled area of your reception. Have crisp artificial snow underfoot,

PIÑATA

snowflakes hanging from trees, snowballs to throw

Sticking with rainbows, we love the idea of a giant

and perhaps even a reindeer or two. This will take

rainbow piñata that you walk beneath, being showered

some coordination and budget but, when it comes to

with rainbow confetti as your guests carefully hit it.

wedding planning, most things are possible.

You could have pots of gold paper at the end of the rainbows for added good luck wishes, which could be scattered by your smaller guests.

CONFETTI CANNONS Biodegradable gold confetti cannons are one way to end your day feeling like a true superstar. And true superstars, of course, like everything that glitters, so, if you’re brave enough to spend the next few days picking shiny sparkles out of your hair, then why not go for broke and let your guests go wild with ecofriendly glitter, too? Photographs of guests showering you in glitter should be mesmerising! (Hint: go for coarsely cut glitter if you can).

SEED BOMBS End your day with the promise of new life. You could ask your guests to throw seed bombs if your reception is held in an open space on private land, and the landowners allow it of course. Although you won’t get a wow return right there and then, let the seeds do their job and they’ll eventually grow into an abundance of wild flowers. You and your guests can then visit the site as the years go by to see how your new wild flower garden is growing.

85

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

86

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

feature | A NEW DAWN Toby Lowe

A NEW DAWN Covid-19 has had a dramatic effect on the wedding industry – so what will weddings look like post-pandemic?

The experts share their predictions and preparation tips for weddings in the months and years to come words Hannah May

The UK wedding industry has experienced

long social distancing will remain in place casts an

envision your day as we collectively emerge from

some incredible highs in recent years, from

unwelcome shadow over today’s wedding planning

‘coronageddon’ with a sense of renewed creativity

the legalisation of same-sex marriage to a

climate.

and revived conscience for a wedding awash with meaning and, most importantly, love.

wave of historic Royal weddings. The industry has been hit particularly hard by the Covid-19

Whether you’re recently engaged, are rescheduling

pandemic, however, and at no other time has

your event or altering your plans due to Covid-19,

there been such a climate of confusion and

we’ve considered what weddings might look like in

MICRO WEDDINGS

uncertainty.

the post-pandemic age to help you navigate your way

In reaction to Covid-19, there’s a movement

through these choppy waters.

toward the micro wedding, where either as a result

With forced postponements and cancellations, couples

of restrictions, budget restraints or an altered

are currently planning for their dream day in the dark,

Without brooding on the potential pragmatics

perspective, the desire for more intimate events

and even as lockdown restrictions have been eased,

of social bubbles or sanitisation stations, we’ve

with fewer guests has shifted the focus onto a more

the looming quandary of group gatherings and how

instead focused on the emerging trends to help you

meaningful, less-is-more ethos.

87

feature | A NEW DAWN

“If you’re just starting your planning, then do consider

If you simply want to tie the knot, then it’s possible

either the elopement, micro or smaller wedding,”

to plan a personal ceremony and await developments

says events producer Rebecca Green from Rebel +

as they play out in order to organise the celebratory

Anchor (rebelandanchor.co.uk). “For one, they will be

side of things, especially since there will be an overlap

easier to ensure certain health and hygiene standards

of pre-planned and postponed dates for next year.

that may be imposed and, secondly, after all everyone

“For those who have just got engaged or those who

has been through, the main thing is to treasure what’s

will become engaged over the next couple of months,

important to you. That will probably be close family

there might be very limited dates available at venues,”

and friends, and this way you can spend more quality

warns Jessica. “You might therefore consider holding a

time with them.”

blessing with a celebrant. I’ve always been a big fan of this option, but it’s not often considered by couples.

Jessica Kearney from Ardour & Bow Weddings &

You would need to visit a registrar in advance to cover

Events (ardourandbow.co.uk) agrees. “Life after

the legal arrangements, but choosing a celebrant allows

Covid-19 is going to be tough for many people and for

for a bespoke, personal ceremony.”

those who have smaller budgets or want to spend their money elsewhere. I think we will see a greater number

POST-COVID PREDICTIONS Jessica Kearney of Ardour & Bow Weddings & Events shares the new W-day elements to expect Planned to perfection – More people are going to consider hiring a wedding planner to help them plan their day, and to be there when things don’t go to plan. During the pandemic, planners have been instrumental in rescheduling their clients’ events, liaising

of smaller, intimate weddings, or even elopements, and

BIGGER IS BETTER?

celebrating your special day with your nearest friends

On the flipside, there are also indications that maxi

and family,” she says. “The opportunity is still available

weddings will be all the rage as couples’ take their socially

to have a big party in the future, but this option

restricted time in lockdown to plan the biggest of big days.

enables you to hold a celebration sooner rather than later and on a money-friendly basis – unless you want

“There is going to be the tendency for some weddings

to have a luxurious no-expense-spared elopement!”

to go with a bang in 2021 and 2022,” says Jessica.

with multiple suppliers and coming up with a Plan B. I think having a professional event manager as part of your planning might be an attractive idea to many couples in future.

Tech-savvy celebrations – I’ve always been a fan of tech and, of late, no matter what profession, we have all seen how our lives have been involved in the latest developments. Zoom might be quite new to most people, but this is something I’m used to using as my clients often live further afield or abroad and our planning chats are often conducted online. I think tech will continue to feature in our lives, with couples taking advantage of virtual venue viewings post-Covid, 3D tours, or holding their initial

Harrera Images

enquiries with suppliers via video.

88

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

Enchanted Brides

“When couples finally get to their wedding day –

outdoor ceremony may enable the celebration to

plenty of surprises thrown in for good measure.

that day might be 12-18 months further on from

still go ahead.”

From imaginative responses to old traditions to the creation of new ones, expect a multi-level

their original date – they are going to want to party in style! So, I think we might see extravagant parties with ‘bigger is better’ being the motto.”

MORE MEANING With individual mindsets being altered by our

post-lockdown redesign of weddings where every human, environmental and financial element has been carefully considered.

“If you do want those larger numbers then consider

experiences in lockdown and in response to the

the great outdoors,” suggests Rebecca of how

landscape of a global pandemic, so too are weddings

Weddings have already seen a spike in benevolent

to achieve a maxi wedding while adhering to any

being re-evaluated with regard to both the look, feel

gestures, including charitable acts such as donating

social distancing protocols. “A ceremony, reception

and impact of the day.

food to homeless organisations and flowers to care homes and hospices, and even hen parties and

drinks, and even a relaxed form of dining can be “All the extra time that couples are experiencing –

honeymoons that incorporate volunteering. And the

whether they have rescheduled a date or are newly

philanthropic mood is set to continue and expand in

Selecting an outside venue provides greater

engaged – will mean that they will be establishing what

a similar vein. Think personal gestures at every turn,

flexibility and provides a sensible contingency

their priorities really are for their day,” says Jessica. “This

from guest experiences and customised gifts designed

option, especially if lockdowns are reinstated

might mean that certain wedding traditions are brushed

to express individual gratitude to thoughtful décor,

or the regulations change, as Jessica explains.

aside to make way for unique, personalised celebrations.”

dining and entertainment, and altruistic-style events

outside or in open-sided stretch tents.”

such as tree-planting ceremonies, mini fundraisers

“Couples might be keen to choose a venue with outside space to ensure that if we experienced a

The rulebook will be well and truly torn up in

similar situation in the future, the option for an

favour of a complete overhaul for many, with

and favours being replaced with charitable donations.

89

feature | A NEW DAWN The Unbridled

WEEKDAY WEDDINGS With a potential scrambling for dates to be expected as a result of postponements being planned alongside pre-existing wedding bookings, alternative days will be requested and weekday weddings will become a popular, no-brainer option.

“When looking for venues during 2021 and 2022, there are going to be many venues where their key summer dates are already fully booked with rescheduled bookings. Therefore, couples need to be open to holding their wedding on a weekday, and also during different seasons,” explains Jessica.

“Winter is one of my favourite times to hold a celebration so don’t just naturally think that your wedding needs to be in summer. Weddings can be beautiful no matter the season and there are so many styling options to reflect seasonality.”

Altering your season and day may appear daunting, but consider the freedom (and moneysaving bonus) that a midweek or midwinter wedding might offer.

SUSTAINABILITY AND SHOPPING LOCALLY With so many businesses being adversely affected

by Covid-19, the already-growing trend toward supporting local enterprise and minimising environmental impact will continue to influence couples’ planning decisions with even greater gusto.

“Life after lockdown will make some people really think about what’s important and ensure quality over quantity,” says Jessica. “We were beginning to see this before Covid-19, but I think people will give greater consideration to sustainability and a trend towards sourcing local suppliers.”

The green wedding movement has gathered huge pace in recent years and is fast becoming one of the most-desired types of W-day, whether in the form of zero waste, being more sustainable, or locally sourced micro events.

“I also think that greater consideration will be given to the mental and physical wellbeing of celebrations with the rise of ‘wellness weddings’,” predicts Jessica, which is another emerging trend that looks set to gain momentum. “Along with foam-free florals and checking what sustainable measures your suppliers are adopting to sourcing ethical fabrics or even holding a yoga class for your guests, I think weddings could become a bit more zen.”

It seems a simple antidote to the surreal stresses of recent times that we all yearn for: a wedding packed with personality, loved ones, and a grateful, giving-back sense of calm.

90

Devon

#45 2020

BE PREPARED Rebecca Green of Rebel + Anchor shares some top tips for reception planning in current times

Food & drink If you’re set on a buffet or dessert station then make sure they’re served. That way, only the serving staff needs to wear gloves and use utensils to serve the chosen items.

Relaxed street food can be done easily. With outside catering vehicles, guests can be safely served pizzas, hot dogs, burritos etc. Guests can then dispose of their waste and recycling with bins provided.

Whilst it’s a lovely idea for guests to have a self-serve bar or even their own glass, this wouldn’t be advisable. It would be better to have lots of smaller bar set-ups rather than one large one, thus allowing a smaller number of people to congregate. Use glassware rather than plastics and have separate glass collectors and washing staff, who need to wash glasses straight away once collected, wearing appropriate protection and gloves.

Seating & dancing Nobody knows to what extent we’re going to be social distancing so perhaps rather than table places, have a more relaxed affair with lots of different tables and seating areas so guests can find a place to sit where they feel comfortable. Everyone will be affected differently during these times and letting people do what makes them feel comfortable is a winner.

Hopefully there will be a time when dance floors can be packed again. However, for those less sure about being in a crowd, but still want to feel involved, consider surrounding the floor with some poseur tables that guests can reside at or dance beside without feeling too exposed.

Cleaning If you’re having a DIY, dry hire wedding then check all your suppliers have practices in place regarding cleaning, food and bar service that adhere to any government guidelines. Also consider hiring cleaners to be present throughout the day, which will ensure areas and restrooms can be constantly cleaned for extra peace of mind.

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

A COUNTRY HOUSE WEDDING IN THE CITY

Space to breathe, relax and enjoy your precious day with carefully considered safety that doesn't compromise style.

WWW.EXETERGCC.CO.UK/WEDDINGS

91

feature | STYLING | SHAPE OF OUR LOVE

SHAPE OF OUR LOVE

Punchy pinks, geometric design and a carnival of foliage, flowers and plants set the mood for a picture-perfect party under canvas Lucy Wallace Bridget Scott, Blue Fizz Events

photography styling & coordination

92

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

SHAPE OF OUR LOVE

One of the many draws of a tipi celebration is its versatility: whether you favour pared-back styling or a ‘more is more’ riot of colour and personalitypacked décor, canvas makes the perfect backdrop for a brilliantly individual wedding.

The latter approach is favoured in this styled shoot, the design mixing vibrant colour and modern geometrics to eye-catching effect in the picturesque setting of Tawstock Court in North Devon. “The shoot combines punchy pinks, architectural floristry and geometrics with World Inspired Tents’ stunning tipis,” explains stylist and coordinator of the shoot, Bridget Scott of Blue Fizz Events.

The floristry is a key component, carrying the colour palette and strong shapes via the structural arrangements of succulents and blooms. “The oversized bouquets and large centrepieces were carried through in the styling of the seating plans, with their colour accents referenced through geometric decorations and structures scattered through the space,” says Bridget. “Roses cascaded through palms, pampas grasses and succulents to give the venue a fresh desert vibe.” Additional plants, huge palms, succulents and cacti added to the scene, “inviting guests to relax in an immersive and calming garden of colour and style,” she adds.

The tablescape sees pink glassware nestle gold cutlery and candlesticks. “I made long runners in a vibrant geometric linen and used my handmade napkins alongside geometric crockery,” says Bridget. The stationery echoes the aesthetic, accenting the same dark greens of the cacti with touches of gold, creatively suspended on wire under the canopy of the floral arrangements. Finished with pink flowers and gold metallic shapes, the cake also carries a geometric design.

“The bar made a real showpiece in the tipi,” says Bridget. “I hung huge painted triangles from the tipis at ascending heights with large flower displays that completed the look.”

From the trumpet-style dress, combining a lace overlay and cut-away detail, to shimmering make-up and a relaxed plait, the bridal style mixes a classic look with a relaxed, contemporary mood. Elegant Devon-made jewellery completes the look, while the groom’s openneck shirt and bold pink trousers ensures a fresh and coolly laid-back vibe for a party to remember deep in the Devon countryside.

93

feature | STYLING | SHAPE OF OUR LOVE

94

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

SHAPE OF OUR LOVE

Photography

Lucy Wallace

lucywallacephotography.com Styling & coordination

Bridget Scott, Blue Fizz Events bluefizzevents.co.uk

Venue

Tawstock Court tawstockcourt.co.uk Tipis

World Inspired Tents worldinspiredtents.co.uk Bridal wear

The Wedding Collection weddingcollection.biz Jewellery

Alexandra Aurum alexandraaurum.com Flowers

Floren Studio florenstudio.co.uk Hair

Vera K Wedding Hair verakweddinghair.co.uk

Make-up

Isabelle Grace

isabellegracemakeup.com

Cake

Crafted by a Ginger

facebook.com/craftedbyaginger Stationery

Emma Louise Castle emmalouisecastle.co.uk Table décor

Keeping it Vintage keepingitvintage.co.uk Plants

Fuss Pots

fusspots.co.uk Bar

The Crafty Beer Shop thecraftybeershop.com Beetle convertible

Best Day Ever Devon

bestdayeverdevon.co.uk/car-hireand-tours

95

e rr r tt t seaeasse fssofofo eexxex d ePalle utsuu r nrrnn DnND Pl P ncttaacc t ofuoouuKEKkNeE a t of e ntcon oilfso EEEeE co coailesatails Wn WW t edt NeN ded PEOPpE OO

Visit th tP iple isaase e conta t our

for detail ct us s of our n ex

OP WEE EN t PKEN DarO ts Far EN D m 30

WE & 3E 1 M KarEchN 201D 9 th

st

EX3 0 QH

Pleas e co for de ntact us ta i ls

Giant Nordic tipis for magical Giant Nordic tipis for magical weddings and events weddings & events

rivieraweddingphotography.com

A versatile alternative to traditional marquees from our multi-awardmarquees winning team.

A flexible and contemporary alternative to traditional from our multi-award winning team.

MAGICAL TIPI WEDDINGS & EVENTS

An immaculate, exclusive use Regency manor wedding venue, dedicated to delivering unique and expertly managed occasions.

Rockbeare Manor,www.worldinspiredtents.co.uk Nr 01271 Exeter,851160 Devon, EX5 2FE Telephone: 01392 797444 info@world-inspired.co.uk 01271 851160 worldinspiredtents.co.uk info@world-inspired.co.uk

pic : joshgooding.co.uk

01271 851160 851160 || info@world-inspired.co.uk info@world-inspired.co.uk || worldinspiredtents.co.uk worldinspiredtents.co.uk 01271

www.rockbearemanor.co.uk

Have the country wedding of your dreams in our beautifully restored 18th century barn, set in the rural heart of Devon The Oak Barn, Hittisleigh Friendly, informal, affordable licenced for civil ceremonies For more details visit our website:

www.theoakbarn.co.uk or call us on 01647 24641

96

Devon

#45 2020

Have the country wedding of your dreams

in our beautifully restored 18th century barn, set in the rural heart of Devon The Oak Barn, Hittisleigh Friendly, informal, affordable licenced for civil ceremonies For more details visit our website:

www.theoakbarn.co.uk or call us on 01647 24641

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

feature | VENUES GUIDE | WELCOME

wed’s

Venetia Norrington

VENUES GUIDE

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 97

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

Rockbeare Manor A ceremony on a pretty outdoor terrace flanked by flowerfilled 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 fulllength windows framing 100 acres of glorious parkland dotted with mature trees. Available on an exclusive-use 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 - indoor: 2 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: for 30, plus 5 rollaway beds for children Dog-friendly: No (allowed for ceremony/reception but not overnight)

Exeter Golf & Country Club The buzz of Exeter might be on the doorstep, but you wouldn’t know it at Exeter Golf & Country Club. A hidden pocket of country charm a stone’s throw from the city streets, the tranquil air and lush parkland of the venue exude a heady sense of romance. The crisp white Georgian manor house, Wear Park, stands at its heart – think huge floor-to-ceiling windows, sweeping staircases and sumptuous furnishings. Marry in a choice of suites, blending the classic romance of the elegant, Regency-style Topsham Room to the contemporary grey, wood and stone theme of The Mews, complete with its private roof terrace. The Topsham Room offers glorious views of the golf course with a veranda for al fresco drinks. An experienced team of chefs will create culinary masterpieces, ranging from afternoon teas to decadent banquets, and for that pre-wedding prep, Wear Park Spa offers bridal beauty treatments through to luxurious Elemis facials, massage and body scrubs. exetergcc.co.uk Total capacity: 150 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 2 outdoor: 0 Guest accommodation: No Dog-friendly: No (can come for photos on request)

98

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

COUNTRY HOUSES & 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. pyneshouse.co.uk

dining in a marquee) Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 4 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: 12 double rooms, plus 4 rollaway beds Dog-friendly: No (couple’s dog for ceremony only)

Rebecca Goddard

Total capacity: 96 for dining in the house, 130 for ceremony in the house (with

Powderham Castle Rich in romance and steeped in history, this iconic 14th century castle sits at the heart of 200 acres of ancient Tim Charles

parkland on the edge of the Exe estuary. The grounds offer dreamlike backdrops for ceremonies – choose from the American Garden where a garden pavilion is set amidst a glade of exotic trees; the Belvedere, an 18th century tower with panoramic views across the estate and estuary; and the Victorian Rose Garden, where you can marry amidst a castle backdrop and the scent of roses. Inside, there’s the magnificent oak panelled Dining Room, the Libraries and the captivating Music Room, with its stunning dome and estuary views. Bring your dazzling day to a close by retiring to a sumptuous suite for a royally romantic wedding night. powderham.co.uk Total capacity: 140 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 3 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: for 16 Dog-friendly: Yes

Castle Hill Situated on the southern edge of Exmoor, Castle Hill offers history, enchantment and breathtakingly beautiful scenery in equal measure. The magnificent Palladian house sits amidst 50 acres of historic parkland, where the gardens are dotted with mystical follies, temples and rivers snaking their paths through woodland cloaked with wild flowers. This dreamlike venue has an enticing option for weddings of all scales and styles. For regal romance, marry in the mansion house; the West Wing is a wow-worthy backdrop for receptions, while a marquee reception on the West Lawn comes with vistas across the valley to the Triumphal Arch. A relaxed and rustic affair is well suited to the restored 18th century Holwell Temple in the woods, and for a small celebration, there’s Satyr’s Temple tucked away in the woodland gardens next to the river. castlehilldevon.co.uk Total capacity: 300 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 3 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: No Dog-friendly: Yes

99

feature | VENUES GUIDE | COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES

Haldon Belvedere Ever dreamt of getting married in a tower? Standing tall amidst the hills of Haldon Forest and the surrounding countryside, Haldon Belvedere is an iconic Devon landmark – and an achingly romantic setting for intimate ceremonies. Built in 1788, its cream façade is the stuff of fairytales, while its roof terrace – reached via a stone spiral staircase – boasts jaw-dropping views of the county’s beauty in every direction. Get wed before up to 50 guests in the gorgeous Ballroom, adorned with ornate Baroque plasterwork and gothic-style windows, and then head to the Lawrence Room for fizz and canapés as you spill out into the picturesque gardens. After the celebrations, kick off your heels and bed down in the self-contained apartment handily located in the castle’s turrets. haldonbelvedere.co.uk Total capacity: 50 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 2 outdoor: 0 Guest accommodation: for 2 in bridal apartment Dog-friendly: Yes (small dog can be carried)

Deer Park Country House Set in 80 acres of idyllic parkland, with the Georgian manor house at its heart, your wedding can be held in any number of intimate spaces with each breathtakingly beautiful backdrop yours to personalise.

The Georgian Orangery is just one with views out onto the Italian garden, for up to 210 guests. Ceremonies can be held inside or out, pared down or turned up. Offering a stylish country house experience, the service is professional, with well-equipped bedrooms boasting a refined, delicate elegance. For a cool bridal suite with a difference, there’s a thatched treehouse set within a cluster of beautiful old oaks complete with log burner, roll-top bath and wrap-around balcony.

Menus feature the estate’s own home-grown fruit, herbs and vegetables picked each day, while fresh fish comes from the market at nearby Brixham, with local sparkling wines to match. Located in the picturesque heart of east Devon, guests can easily slip off-site and explore the dramatic Jurassic coastline, Dartmoor National Park or Exeter. Around the house, everything from archery and clay shooting to falconry and fishing can be arranged. deerpark.co.uk Total capacity: 210 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 4 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: for 60 Dog-friendly: Yes

100

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES

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 - indoor: 5 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: for 40 in 18 bedrooms Dog-friendly: On request

Woolhanger Manor Flanked by miles of unspoilt countryside and offering glorious views across Exmoor, it’s not just the location of Woolhanger Manor that makes it a spectacular setting for a wedding – inside, you’ll find a series of breathtaking and beautifully restored spaces to marry and celebrate in style and privacy.

There’s the Music Room, with its magnificent octagonal hall and built-in organ for a stirringly atmospheric soundtrack; the resplendent Medieval Room, adorned with chandeliers and an open beam ceiling; and the Red Dining Room, a more intimate yet grand setting for a smaller celebration.

Outside, and with far-reaching views, the Semi-Walled Upper Garden is perfect for a drinks reception or marquee wedding, while the estate’s holiday cottages can accommodate up to 17 guests for a stayover in this extraordinary corner of Devon. weddingsatwoolhanger.co.uk Total capacity: 120 sit-down, 150 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 2 outdoor: 2 Guest accommodation: for 17 in cottages Dog-friendly: Yes

101

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. From intimate elopements to grander gatherings of 120, Coombe Trenchard weddings are unique, tailored and very special. Brimming with beauty and charm, the exclusive-use venue offers the main house, coach house, courtyard, Italian terrace, clock tower 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, Sarah’s cutting garden flowers grown with great love and care for each couple, the stunning bridal suite, and new bijou stable bar mean this gem of a venue will steal the hearts of engaged couples from far and wide. coombetrenchard.co.uk Total capacity: 120 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 6 outdoor: 6 Alexa Poppe

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 wild flowers in Devon’s rolling South Hams. Combining a sense of seclusion with a relaxed, back-to-nature feel, Hareston Manor is an eco haven with sustainability at the core of its ethos. With a limited offering of 12 weddings per year, the new venue’s exclusive bespoke weddings will ensure every detail is just 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 time-honoured walls and mullion windows, roses and wild flowers. 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

Shield Media Services

Total capacity: 150 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 1 outdoor: 4 Guest accommodation: TBC, please enquire directly Dog-friendly: No

102

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

feature | VENUES | BEAUTIFUL BARNS

VENUES GUIDE:

BEAUTIFUL BARNS

Catherine Spiller

Joseph Henderson

From rustic barns to modern spaces flanked by wooded valleys and rural panoramas, throw your dream wedding in a charm-packed setting in the Devon countryside

Harefield Barn Located amidst rolling hills and wild flower 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 personality-packed wedding, the rural gem boasts no less than seven licensed areas for ceremonies – including the Clock House, a dreamlike option for al fresco vows – not to mention four churches within a short drive. Characterful features such as exposed beams and a wood-burning stove meet a blank canvas aesthetic, lofty ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows framing 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: 300 evening Sam Box

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 6 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: No Dog-friendly: Yes

103

feature | VENUES | BEAUTIFUL BARNS

Nova Wedding Photography

The Oak Barn Fall for the rural dream at The Oak Barn, where three converted historic barns and an ancient cob Devon farmhouse sit amidst acres of quintessentially English countryside. We’re talking meadows dotted with The stunning medieval-style barn is a blank canvas with traditional oak cruck trusses, which is ideal for going to town on the décor. Then there’s the Acorn Barn, a thatched 18th century barn, for intimate ceremonies and accommodation. The Linhay, a converted Edwardian dairy, offers further

Mark Shaw

haybales, undulating hills and a beautiful country church right next door.

accommodation as well as a beautifully equipped space for the 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 - indoor: 3 outdoor: 0 Guest accommodation: for 28-29 Dog-friendly: No

Clayton Jane Nova Wedding Photography

Helen Lisk

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. Marry in the atmospheric Cider Barn, a restored traditional cob barn with oak trusses and floor-to-ceiling 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 woodburner. 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 Total capacity: 156 day Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 1 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: No Dog-friendly: No (couple’s dog is welcome to attend the ceremony)

104

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

feature | VENUES | INTIMATE & UNIQUE

VENUES GUIDE:

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

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 - indoor: 1 outdoor: 0 Guest accommodation: 2 en-suite bedrooms Dog-friendly: Yes

105

feature | VENUES | INTIMATE & UNIQUE

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-into-me sofas and sheltered garden. Complete with an award-winning restaurant and luxurious boutiquestyle 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. lambinnsandford.co.uk Total capacity: 40 day, 75 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 4 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: 7 rooms and 1 garden suite

Yeti Photography

Dog-friendly: Yes

Emma Barrow

Emma Barrow

Brickhouse Vineyard Tucked away in an idyllic corner of south Devon, amidst 20 acres of fields Emma Barrow

and woodland, you’ll find Brickhouse Vineyard. Although located just 20 minutes from Exeter, the venue’s away-from-it-all charm and palpable sense of tranquillity make it a blissful setting for an elopement or intimate wedding.

Marry in the 18th century Round House – an enchanting and brilliantly versatile space with a thatched roof, beamed ceilings and sweeping views across the vineyard to the countryside and coast beyond. After the vows, enjoy a loved-up stroll in the leafy vineyard and gardens before gathering for a feast tailored entirely to your tastes. You might even savour the romance of this gorgeous spot a little longer at nearby hideaway, The Folly. brickhousevineyard.co.uk Total capacity: 60 day, 100 evening Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 1 outdoor: 0 Guest accommodation: No Dog-friendly: Yes

106

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

feature | VENUES GUIDE | HOTELS WITH CHARACTER

VENUES GUIDE:

HOTELS WITH CHARACTER From country charm and glorious grounds to seriously stylish suites for the wedding night, these hotels offer irresistible romance

Fiona Walsh

Hotel Endsleigh Tucked away deep in the secluded Devon countryside within touching distance of Dartmoor, this Grade I historic house is flanked by 100 acres of scenic grounds, home to woodland, follies, grottos and gardens created by renowned landscape designer Humphry Repton. Say “I do” in any of the ground floor rooms of the immaculately styled hotel or venture outside for vows in the Parterre Garden or the utterly enchanting Shell House. ‘Your day, your way’ is the mantra at Endsleigh and each wedding is entirely bespoke, whether it’s a ceremony for two or an exclusive weekend wedding, complete with a marquee reception on the lawn overlooking the gardens, the River Tamar and beyond into Cornwall.

What’s more, the individually designed bedrooms and Stable suites, featuring roll-top bathtubs and wood-burning stoves, are an absolute treat. hotelendsleigh.com Total capacity: 140 inside, 160 for reception in marquee Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 7 outdoor: 2 Guest accommodation: 18 rooms for 40 guests Dog-friendly: Yes

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 Tim Woolcock

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 - indoor: 1 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: 37 rooms, 2 people per room Dog-friendly: Yes

Lizzie C

107

feature | VENUES GUIDE | HOTELS WITH CHARACTER

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?

4.

Is the venue exclusive use?

5.

What is the availability like?

featuring stone pillars and floor-to-ceiling windows; the Derby Room is a light and airy space

6.

What is included in the price?

menu to impress, and the calm space of Nelsons Lounge is a lovely retreat for those after a

7.

Will room turnarounds need to take place? If 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?

10. Is

furniture provided?

11. Is

tableware provided?

Mercure Exeter Rougemont Hotel For weddings in convenient locations, it doesn’t come much more central than this revamped venue, which is opposite Exeter’s train station and Rougemont Gardens. A Victorian building that boasts modern facilities, its grand façade gives a clue to its impressive interior. Elegant and stylish, it retains many of its original features, and offers a choice of exquisite spots to take your vows with your loved ones. The Devonshire Suite, with its modern décor and expansive space, caters for up to 250 guests, while the Cavendish Ballroom provides a beautiful backdrop for smaller weddings of up to 50. Catering from the in-house Drakes Restaurant promises a peaceful moment before revelling in the party atmosphere. With 98 bedrooms, your guests can make a real weekend of the celebrations in the heart of the city. mercureweddings.com/hotel/mercure-exeter-rougemont Total capacity: 250 Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 4 outdoor: 0 Guest accommodation: 98 rooms Dog-friendly: Yes

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?

19. Are 20. Is

fireworks allowed?

confetti allowed?

21. Are

firepits allowed?

22. Are

there dos and don’ts concerning decoration?

This country venue has it all: acres of picturesque scenery, a grand-scale reception space for up to 220 guests, plentiful four-star accommodation, and even use of the wedding golf buggy!

Tie the knot in The Oaks, a charming space with exposed beams and large windows 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-the-art gym, pool and Aura Spa.

23. What

time does the hire end?

woodburypark.co.uk

24. Who

does the clean-up afterwards?

Total capacity: 250

25. Who

takes away the recycling and rubbish?

108

Woodbury Park

Devon

#45 2020

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes Guest accommodation: 54 rooms Dog-friendly: No

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

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

109

feature | FEATURE | MICRO MAGIC SP Hooton Photography

mic ro m a gi c The micro wedding was growing in popularity long before the Covid-19 pandemic came along. wed looks at the epic charms of a teeny-tiny wedding day words Hannah May

Bigger isn’t always better. The ‘micro’ concept has become a bona fide

different tables of guests”, explains Caroline.

movement of late, both in response to Covid-19 and the growing desire for couples to celebrate their love in an intimate, less-is-more way.

Choosing Brickhouse Vineyard was a no-brainer for Caroline. “We love being in the countryside with our family for walks and we wanted to find a venue that looked and

A micro wedding is officially defined by featuring fewer than 20 guests, which means

felt beautiful to be at, not just a few photo opportunity spots. Brickhouse is stunning

– with current government restrictions and potential future limitations, personal

no matter where you look, from whatever angle in any direction. You have red-brick

budget cuts, and a general shift in perspective and priority – micro is definitely one

walls, handcrafted exposed beams, panoramic windows and vineyards. It just feels

of wedding world’s biggest buzzwords.

magical and gave us that ‘this is it’ moment from the first time we visited.”

“Micro weddings are awesome,” champions events producer Rebecca Green from

It also gave Caroline a rare moment to root herself in the matrimonial moment.

Rebel + Anchor (rebelandanchor.co.uk). “They can give couples a real sense of

“I could feel, see and hear every laugh and giggle, every intake of breath as my

freedom when planning their big, yet micro day. With a select number of guests who

bridesmaids attempted, but failed, to hold back their tears,” she reveals.

are their nearest and dearest, there are no worries about who to seat next to each other and no concern that their other half hasn’t actually met the extended families,

Looking back, the couple have no regrets. “We would do exactly the same if we did

friends or work colleagues.”

it over again,” she says. “Our day was full of happy moments, memories and laughs.

We ate good food, drank great cocktails and just had the day of our lives with the 11

Enchanted Brides

Having dreamt of a smaller wedding when they began their pre-Covid planning,

most important people in our family.”

Caroline and Stuart planned an intimate celebration at Brickhouse Vineyard

110

(brickhousevineyard.co.uk) with just 11 guests. It afforded them the opportunity

“We love hosting gorgeously romantic, hugely personal (and often emotional!)

“to celebrate with the people who really matter so that we could relax and enjoy

micro weddings,” enthuses Joanna Pisko from Brickhouse Vineyard. “The benefits

our day rather than spend lots of time ‹doing the rounds’ going around to talk to

we see include a more intense feeling of love and commitment than you get with

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

MICRO MAGIC

some larger weddings, and couples feeling more confident to make the whole thing very personal and reflective of their relationship through styling, the words they say to each other in their ceremony, and what they choose to eat and drink for the celebration meal. What’s more, small weddings are nimble and can be arranged at relatively short notice, meaning planning is fun and exciting from start to finish!”

Combining modern facilities with history and the natural beauty of the vineyard, the venue features a natural bridal aisle through the wild flower meadow and panoramic views toward the rolling hills beyond. Hosting elopements and intimate weddings for two to 60 people, Brickhouse adopts a tailor-made approach to give couples ceremony and celebration booking.

“Micro weddings are all about the couple,” Joanna continues.

Maria Broome

the option for a ceremony only, celebration only, or a combined

“That’s where the magic emanates from. The intensity of feelings is amplified by a smaller wedding with every person present being emotionally invested in the day. Money can’t buy this. Every couple’s micro wedding we have hosted has this special heartfelt vibe.”

A matter of cost One benefit of a micro wedding is its potential cost-saving, since having fewer guests gives the option to save money or spend it elsewhere, something Rachael and Simon discovered when they began planning their 2019 wedding.

“We originally planned to have a wedding in the Midlands, with around 60 day and 120 evening guests. However, the costs were extortionate for the level of luxury we wanted,” says Rachael.

“After much deliberation, we opted for a more intimate wedding, and this is where we stumbled across Tree Top Escape – we fell in love with the idea and venue instantly.”

Deciding to wed at Tree Top Escape (treetopescape.co.uk) and invite 14 guests meant Rachael and Simon could focus on what was really important to them. “We both felt that having the smaller wedding allowed us to appreciate the true meaning of marriage,” says Rachael. “And the venue itself was stunning in every way possible. The accommodation simply oozes luxury, but its uniqueness was possibly the greatest appeal of all. Our guests were blown away by the whole day!”

at a special venue also frees up funds to focus on elements that matter to you. “Feeding 20 guests as opposed to 120 guests means

Maria Broome

It’s an approach Rebecca champions; choosing a micro wedding

couples can consider that cordon bleu chef and seven-course

“Couples can spend more per person should they wish and perhaps open up options that would not be available to larger

Maria Broome

dining extravaganza if they’re both foodies,” she says.

groups,” agrees Joanna. “For example, for a group of 15, local chefs can prepare a totally bespoke menu with a custom-made wine flight. This is a good example of something that would be out of reach financially and practically for a much larger group.

Better quality and more bespoke food, wine and toast drinks can be included and yet styling items such as flowers and props are not always cut back.”

Services still in particular demand are photography and videography. “With fewer people at a wedding, this is a great way for couples to share all the details of their special day with others who couldn’t be there, for whatever reason,” says Joanna.

111

feature | MICRO MAGIC

By reappropriating funds, you’re essentially able to treat each individual guest more, packing your day full of thoughtful detail to make it a more sensory experience.

What’s more, it follows that the environmental cost could also be less, minimising the carbon footprint of you and your guests to give your wedding greater benevolence and sense of eco conscience.

Your day, your way “A smaller wedding ceremony and celebration means more freedom for couples to create the day they really want,” says Joanna of one of the biggest benefits of a micro wedding. “It reduces the risks associated with ‘breaking the rules’ around wedding traditions and far more couples feel confident to do things their way.

Perhaps the mother of the bride is called on to speak after dinner, perhaps the bride is not given away by her father but escorted down the aisle by her dog, maybe the wedding meal is street food style reflecting experiences from the couple’s gap year as students, and so the list goes on.”

Of course, this doesn’t mean to say that micro weddings don’t include beautiful styling, floral arrangements, music and food. “In fact, we’d argue that some of the most beautiful days in terms of look and feel have been micro weddings, as couples spend more on the details as they have fewer guests to pay for and their budget can go further,” says Joanna.

Rebecca is replete with other ideas of how to achieve a personalised micro wedding. “Styling and décor can be much more intimate, cosy – and it’s pretty easy to achieve a breath-taking atmosphere with some festoon lighting, lit candles and beautiful blooms. If you’re lucky with the weather, an intimate al fresco dining experience under drop festoons is one to remember.”

And micro weddings also give you the opportunity to get personal with your styling and entertainment.

“Favours can really be personal and customised; for example, you can hire a caricaturist to sketch everyone or the dinner scene,” she adds.

“Another great positive is that you can have some real fun at the dinner table. You can have one big old table, with all your loved ones around. You could have really creative food choices, making the dinner an interactive experience for each guest. The cake doesn’t need to be traditional, or large – or you don’t even have to have a cake at all!”

Optional extras By freeing up time and budget, couples can design a unique day that entirely suits them and their guests – including an array of additional activities and indulgences.

“Because you have smaller numbers, you can really dedicate time to creating beautiful invitations, handcrafting things for your guests or for the venue, or go to town with drinks or food – whatever is important to you,” says Caroline.

“I love the idea of an adventure-filled micro wedding

112

Devon

#45 2020

Maria Broome

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

MICRO MAGIC S P Hooton Photography

where the day is tied in with an adventure that the guests can join in with; for example, hot-air ballooning or surf lessons,” says Rebecca. “There’s also more money for other fun stuff either pre or post-wedding,” she suggests. “They can do that zip wire ride with friends, have an early morning yoga session or, if they prefer, take the group wine tasting, perhaps the day after.”

Rebecca makes the joys of micro weddings simple: “I think micro weddings are definitely on the up and I can see why: they’re fun, generally relaxed and very, very bespoke to the couple,” she says, something that Rachael can attest to. “Enjoy the intimacy of a smaller wedding and ability to take in every single moment without any of the distractions that come from a large wedding,” she says. “We have absolutely no regrets, and many people have told us that they wished they had

S P Hooton Photography

done it the way we did.”

S P Hooton Photography

MICRO ESSENTIALS Ready to go micro? Joanna from Brickhouse Vineyard shares her top planning tips Start with your guest list. The people that couples choose to surround them on their wedding day will have a huge impact on their overall experience. Surround yourselves with love and support!

What vibe do you want? Collecting ideas and images can help couples become aligned in their thinking and it will also help when it comes to choosing wedding day service suppliers and then communicating the details.

How much do you want to spend? Even with a smaller wedding, costs can soon mount up unless couples keep an eye on this. Few of us have the luxury to work without financial constraint and having a budget helps couples decide what their priorities are and where to direct their spend.

Next, search for a wedding venue and book a date. The time of year becomes less important with smaller weddings, as they are less weather reliant. The vibe couples want to create on their wedding day will help ensure they choose the right venue for them and the time of year for their wedding. However, we help lots of couples who have been inspired by Brickhouse Vineyard as a venue and work back from there. There’s no right or wrong!

Ask your venue to recommended wedding suppliers. It’s far better to choose from a tried-and-tested list of recommended suppliers that know the venue than relying on Google alone to do this job. This can de-risk wedding day plans and makes the whole experience far more relaxed and enjoyable.

113

01726 823450 07836 570474

celebration cakes and cupcakes.

For more information call 07921 377542 or visit www.cherryblossom-cakes.co.uk

CLASSIFIEDS

Décor

Catering Entertainment

WOODFIRED

WEDDING

jamdesigndevon.co.uk

Ratpack favourites · Standards · Blues · Duo to full band

01822 610219 Add a special touch to your special day www.lindyadamsfoster.co.uk

Kernow Groove

SOURDOUGH Braga Tanga N E A P O L I TA N

Teacup cake Nova Photography

Beautiful hand made fabric bunting.

Bespoke commissions welcome.

Hire service available with range of colours & styles.

The Ultimate Disco In Cornwall For complete evening of entertainment Greata personal service with bunting which will Letcertainly Kernowmake Groove make your special event any space look pretty and fun! an unforgettable and exciting experience

A four-piecePIZZA band that create an exotic mix of world folk music, Eastern European gypsy tunes and a host of other mesmerising melodies from near and distant lands.

Hannah Taylor

flourandflame.co.uk www.nibbleandscoff.co.uk Wedding designer and stylist -inJazz Devon www.myspace.com/bragatanga Johanna Graham Singer 01647 441461 wow@nibbleandscoff.co.uk Duo,07837824915 Trio, Quartet or Quintet - 07973 694760 www.hannahtaylorweddingstylist.co.uk 07815048365 07748267325

01726 823450

Twww.devonbuntinghire.co.uk o m : 07836 0 7 8 8 570474 9 915109

For more information call 07921 377542 or visit www.cherryblossom-cakes.co.uk

Poshcakes - www.francescarlisle.co.uk as01803 individual as you/ 07890 are, romantic Tel. 329978 196338& indulgent, www.cornwallweddingentertainment.co.uk 07816 764047 www.kernowgroove.co.uk stunning presentation, exclusive designer cakes.

• Full Insurance • Free Site Inspection • Innovative shows • Bespoke Lancework • Musical choreography • Pyro-animation & Effects • DIY Fireworks available all year

Live, cool jazz for any occasion Ratpack favourites · Standards · Blues · Duo to full band

Luxury Spa Breaks, Spa Treatments and DISPLAYS DESIGNED FOR YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION Beauty Salon with Champagne Service

Add a special touch to your special day

Beautiful hand made fabric bunting.

Bespoke commissions welcome.

Hire service available with range of colours & styles.

Great personal service with bunting which will certainly make any space look pretty and fun!

www.funkyflagsbunting.co.uk

Braga Tanga A four-piece band that create an exotic Bricknell mix of world folk Contact Roger or Thomas music, Eastern European gypsy tunes and a host of other T: 01208 78790 M: 07814 014233 mesmerising melodies from near and distant lands.

Hannah Taylor Gaia Spa, Boringdon Hill, Colebrook,

Wedding designer and stylist in Devon Plymouth, Devon www.celebrationpyro.com www.myspace.com/bragatanga PL7 4DP www.hannahtaylorweddingstylist.co.uk 07815048365 07748267325 wwww.gaiaboringdon.co.uk

Twww.devonbuntinghire.co.uk om: 07889 915109

Tel. 01803 329978 / 07890 196338 www.cornwallweddingentertainment.co.uk

WEDDING DISPLAY & EVENT EXPERTS • Full Insurance • Free Site Inspection • Innovative shows • Bespoke Lancework • Musical choreography • Pyro-animation & Effects • DIY Fireworks available all year

Floral Design,

Weddings and Events DISPLAYS DESIGNED FOR YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION

01208 78790

M:

07814 014233

www.thevelvetdaisy.co.uk www.celebrationpyro.com helen@thevelvetdaisy.co.uk Members of the British Pyrotechnists 07790692221

Daisy

Association and CBI Explosives Industry Group

Celebration ad 210x297 1

114

Devon

9/6/09 17:06:47

Wedding Flowers

In Cornwall Cornwall R.J.Rhythm Entertainments have Stunning and unique the best to offer in music and sound for all floral creations for your perfectfor day. occasions. Established 27 years, all our Professional, D.Js are professional, so when you book friendly and R.J.Rhythm Road show you can be certain bespoke service. that you are getting a personality D. J. who will help to enhance your function.

Professional wedding host, party DJs for hire, lighting experts, dance floor and starcloth hire, PA and AV hire.

www.rjrhythm.com

Simply Flowers

Awesome Archwa Brilliant Bouquets Contact Martin on: ys ews Perfect P Get touch to arrange a meeting...

Tel:in01726 851 436 PASSION FOR DESIGN AND CREATIVITY Telephone: 07887369275 Mob: 07980 572980 TEmail: . 01872 540660 hello@hannahburnettflorist.co.uk

www.weddingflowersincornwall.co.uk 01626 833 373 www.simplyflowersdevon.com www.hannahburnettflorist.co.uk Hair & Beauty

In Cornwall

Simply Flowers PASSION FOR DESIGN AND CREATIVITY

T. 01872 540660

www.weddingflowersincornwall.co.uk 01626 833 373 www.simplyflowersdevon.com www.emmahewlett.co.uk

07766 237975

Lizi Newbury Wedding Flower Specialist

t: 07812572512

2 Bedford Road e: info@thepopupsalon.co.uk HIRE St. Ives FLOWERS - STYLING Tel:-01736 797788 www.thepopupsalon.co.uk Cornwall & Devon Cornwall Coveringw: Fax: 01736 799835 www.weddingflowersincornwall.co.uk HAIR Info@whealsaraflowers.co.uk AND MAKEUP ARTISTS TR26 1SP

9/6/09 17:06:47

#45 2020

Contac Tel: 017 Mob: 0

15/11/2015 17:48

Wedding Flowers

Specialising in creating beautiful bespoke wedding flowers for brides and venues across the South West.

Contact Roger or Thomas Bricknell T:

and

Based Winning betweenFloristry Bodmin that andisSt.Austell in Award second to none.

Flowers Flowers

Flowers

Celebration ad 210x297 1

photography and design by www.simongreenphotography.co.uk

Fireworks Fireworks

Members of the British Pyrotechnists

01752 344455 carey.bragatanga@googlemail.com Tel: 01803 463804 M: 07917 486521Group Association and CBI Explosives Industry

photography and design by www.simongreenphotography.co.uk

WEDDING DISPLAY & EVENT EXPERTS

Quality handmade bunting available to hire nationwide

for hi ww

Flowers Flowers

Entertainment Flowers Wed classified ad 11/15.indd 1

Tom Quirke Piano & Ross Williams Bass

Based Cornwa the bes occasio D.Js ar R.J.Rhy that you will Profe

www.johannagraham.co.uk wedding cakes cupcakesM:• 07917 cookies • hen parties carey.bragatanga@googlemail.com Tel:flourandflamepizza@gmail.com 01803• 463804 486521

Fireworks Entertainment Fireworks

Décor

Décor

Entertainment

Looking for a stylish, classic soundtrack for your wedding?

Live, cool jazz for any occasion

We use only the finest and best quality ingredients for our Wedding cakes, celebration cakes and cupcakes.

wedding

Wed classified ad 11/15

Tom Quirke Piano Poshcakes & Ross Williams Bass Lindy Adams Foster

Exclusively designed and perfected to suit your unique www.clairessweettemptations.com tastes, ensuring you have a magical centrepiece on your special day!

01647 44

Poshcakes - as individual as you are, romantic & indulgent, www.kernowgroove.co.uk stunning presentation, exclusive designer cakes.

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

Make up &

2 07971 Bedford8 St.info@ni Ives www.ni Cornwall ww TR26 1SP Photo shoot

Hair & Beauty

Mobile Bar

Photography

CLASSIFIEDS

WWW.CLAREKINCHINPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

NE *V W ID fo EO r2 * 02 0

Photography

Creative, modern yet timeless imagery

P H OTO G R A P H Y

LBIPP 01803 324255 | 07970 767684 WWW.MAXIPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Photography

Stationery

Transport

P R IVAT E C L A SSI C CA R C O L L E CT I O N

“Devon’s Finest Classic Car Hire Company” Our cars are not exclusive to Deer Park, so can be hired for use at any wedding venue.

01404 41266 | www.deerpark.co.uk Deer Park Country House Hotel, Honiton, Devon EX14 3PG

DPH_Wed_Mag_Car_Ad_75x100.indd 1

115

07/03/2017 17:01

STOCKISTS

Beauty

Fuss Pots 01271 850025

Brickhouse Vineyard 01626 682287

Gershwins Hairdressing 01626 202112

fusspots.co.uk

brickhousevineyard.co.uk

gershwins-hairdressing.com

Hannah Burnett 01752 696333

Caerhays 01872 501310

The Pop Up Salon 07812 572512

hannahburnettflorist.co.uk

caerhays.co.uk

thepopupsalon.co.uk

The Velvet Daisy 07790 692221

Castle Hill 01598 760336

thevelvetdaisy.co.uk

castlehilldevon.co.uk Coombe Trenchard 01566 783179

Bridalwear

Jewellery

coombetrenchard.co.uk

Days of Grace 01395 443730

Bee Lavish beelavish.co.uk

Dartington Hall 01803 847147

daysofgracevintage.com

Corrinne Eira Evans 07853 158861

dartington.org

Kate Walker Bridal 01404 598145

corrinneeiraevans.com

Deer Park Country House 01404 41266

katewalkerbridal.com

Drakes 01752 227775

deerpark.co.uk

The Ivory Secret 01363 777500

drakesjewellers.co.uk

Exeter Golf & Country Club 01392 874139

theivorysecret.co.uk

Erin Cox 01392 660836

exetergcc.co.uk

Lovely 01404 758140

erincox.co.uk

Haldon Belvedere 01392 833846

lovelybridal.co.uk

Justin Duance 01736 368395

haldonbelvedere.co.uk

Pirouette 01392 432643

justind.co.uk

Harefield Barn 07541 121404

pirouettethecollection.com

Michael Spiers 01752 661981 / 01392 666590

harefieldbarn.co.uk

Pretty Smithy Bridal 01803 362392

michaelspiers.co.uk

Hareston Manor 01752 880401 harestonwedding.co.uk

prettysmithybridal.co.uk

Holne Park House 01364 655918

Photography

holnepark.co.uk

Cakes & catering

Clare Kinchin Photography 07759 157964

Hotel Endsleigh 01822 870000

Flour & Flame 07837 824915

clarekinchinphotography.co.uk

hotelendsleigh.com

flourandflame.co.uk

Freckle Photography 07870 185277

The Lamb Inn at Sandford 01363 773676

Porsham Cakes 01752 776730

frecklephotography.co.uk

lambinnsandford.co.uk

porsham.co.uk

Freeform Images Photography 07846

Mercure Exeter Rougemont Hotel

Poshcakes 01822 610219

926029 freeformimages.co.uk

08713 769018 mercure.com

lindyadamsfoster.co.uk

Harrera Images 07795 608941

The Oak Barn 01647 24641

Posh Nosh 01392 444877

harreraimages.co.uk

theoakbarn.co.uk

posh-nosh.co.uk

Jennifer Jane Photography 07881 941668

Powderham Castle 01626 890243

Sweet Temptations 07816 288626

jenniferjanephotography.co.uk

powderham.co.uk

clairessweettemptations.com

Maxi Photography 01803 324255

Pynes House 01392 431403

maxiphotography.com

pyneshouse.co.uk

Nova Wedding Photography 01392 430853

Rockbeare Manor 01392 797444

Entertainment

novaweddingphotography.co.uk

rockbearemanor.co.uk

Offbeat Entertainment 07725 117639

Toby Lowe Photography 07800 805081

The Venue at Sandy Cove 01271 882243

offbeatentertainment.co.uk

tobylowephotography.co.uk

sandycove-hotel.co.uk

Travers & Brown 01637 818301

Tree Top Escape 01769 629069

traversandbrown.co.uk

treetopescape.co.uk

Fireworks

Trevenna 01579 320013

Celebration Pyrotechnics

trevenna.co.uk

01208 78790 / 07814 014233

Stationery

Upton Barn & Walled Garden 01884 38302

celebrationpyrotechnics.com

Knots & Kisses 01837 52885

uptonbarn.com

Sonic Fireworks 01884 849222

knotsandkisses.co.uk

Widworthy Barton 01404 831327 widworthybarton.co.uk

sonicfireworks.co.uk

Woodbury Park 01395 234723

Venues

woodburypark.co.uk

Flowers

Bickleigh Castle 01884 855363

Woolhanger Manor 01598 763000

Emma Hewlett Floral Design 07766 237975

bickleighcastle.com

weddingsatwoolhanger.co.uk

emmahewlett.co.uk

116

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

SARAH AND PATCH PHOTOGRAPHY: CLARE KINCHIN PHOTOGRAPHY

got wed

Beautiful love stories from across Devon

117

got wed

DAYS LIKE THIS

Artistic flourishes, singing waiters and entertainment with an Irish twist made for a characterful south coast wedding for Sarah and Patch Although they attended the same university, Sarah and Patch’s paths didn’t actually cross until a mutual friend introduced them in a pub in London. Love blossomed and, after Patch proposed over a summer picnic, the couple set about planning a relaxed coastal-themed wedding in Devon.

The celebrations were split between two venues, with a ceremony at Salcombe Harbour Hotel followed by a marquee reception at Bigbury, both of which were highly personalised affairs.

“Patch is an artist so he did a lot of the design and created an amazing logo, which we had branded on hammam towels that guests could take home, as well as on surfboards around the marquee,” explains Sarah of how they used Patch’s creative talents to beautifully bespoke effect.

The floristry comprised pared-back arrangements of classic white and cream flowers and foliage, while lemons and eucalyptus brought subtle pops of colour to the tables and bar.

“Being Irish and having our wedding in Devon, I wanted to incorporate a few Irish moments, so my brother read an Irish poem. My gran wrote a monologue based on the lyrics of Van Morrison’s ‘Days Like This’ and we had baby Guinness shots available at the bar,” says Sarah.

“I was really emotional walking down the aisle,” she reveals. “I don’t know why I felt it all hit me at once. I was just so elated and happy to see all my friends and family in one place – and in a place like Salcombe, which is so special to us.”

Champagne and canapés were then served before the newlyweds were transported to Bigbury. “This was one of our favourite moments,” says Sarah, who also cites their sunset photo shoot as another. “We could actually pause, live in the present and appreciate the day.”

Sharing platters of paella full of locally sourced fish and meats were followed by gin and elderflower sponge cake – and the sensory delights didn’t stop there.

“We also had surprise waiters come and sing. They acted as waiters all night then before dessert burst into song! They also did our first dance as I didn’t love the idea of all the attention on us. Everyone was up dancing on their chairs and singing along – it was a great way to kick off the party!” says Sarah.

“Don’t sweat the small stuff, your guests are there for you and won’t notice the colour of their napkins or cutlery!” she says, encouraging couples to take a laid-back approach to planning.

“Invest in your entertainment and your photographer,” she adds.

“Entertainment will set the atmosphere you want for the wedding and a good photographer will catch the most perfect memories – ones you didn’t realise you were living. The rest will fall into place.”

118

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

SARAH AND PATCH PHOTOGRAPHY: CLARE KINCHIN PHOTOGRAPHY

“All we wanted from the day was one big party.”

119

got wed | SARAH AND PATCH PHOTOGRAPHY: CLARE KINCHIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography Venue Planning Dress Hair Flowers Entertainment

120

Devon

#45 2020

Clare Kinchin clarekinchinphotography.co.uk Salcombe Harbour Hotel harbourhotels.co.uk/salcombe West Country Wedding Planner westcountryweddingplanner.co.uk Pronovias pronovias.com/gb Hair by Hannah hairbyhannah.net Twig of Salcombe facebook.com/twigofsalcombe Michael G Moore michaelgmoore.co.uk

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

By far THE best DJ we have ever heard! (Sarah & Alex, Launcells Barton)

★★★★★

WOW! Five stars isn’t enough! (Kelly & Paul, Anran)

★★★★★

Great DJ-ing magic and talent – he absolutely blew us away!

(Lily & Mike, Poltimore House)

★★★★★

‘Our cakes are all made and decorated by hand, each individual leaf, lacework detail or petal is hand made here in our kitchen with a high attention to detail’

With over 10 years experience performing regularly at the UK’s best wedding venues, Offbeat Entertainment is the perfect DJ to make your day truly exceptional.

Having played all over the UK and internationally, supporting artists from Fleetwood Mac at Wembley Stadium to Grandmaster Flash at Brixton Electric, Offbeat will go above and beyond to deliver a wedding party that

CAKES

your guests will talk about for years to come.

However you want it, no one will take your fun more seriously.

www.offbeatentertainment.co.uk

w w w. p o r s h a m . c o . u k

07725 117 639 dj@offbeatentertainment.co.uk

121

got wed

THAT FESTIVAL FEELING

Lisa and Tom’s four-day wedding extravaganza was filled with handmade touches, incredible outfits and festival-inspired feasts “We met on an old-fashioned night out in St Albans. I was out with work friends and Tom was on a night out he nearly didn’t go on. We got chatting, had a few drinks and danced, then realised we were going home on the same train to the same station!” recalls Lisa.

The pair got engaged at sunset on Sugarloaf Mountain during an unforgettable trip to Rio de Janeiro. “We went for a slapup meal and lots of champagne! We both love to travel and experience different cultures, so it really was the perfect place,” reminisces Lisa.

An extended wedding at the Ash Barton Estate allowed the festivalloving couple to “invite as many of our friends and family as possible for a massive celebration with a festival feel”, explains Lisa. A party on the first night kick-started the festivities; the following day was spent preparing for the wedding, with more guests arriving to camp in tipis, and a Caribbean-style feast in the evening.

Together with ‘just-gathered’ style wild flowers blending pops of pink, yellow and blue, the stationery helped set the nature-inspired tone of the celebrations. Lisa enlisted the help of her friend, Kate, who hand-painted the wild flower invitations and place settings, which were attached to the napkins with twine and lavender.

The dress code was another key component of the look of the day. Lisa chose a champagne gown complete with beautiful beading, floral and vine detail on the skirt, and a demure low back. “I wanted a kind of vintage and understated look, but still glamorous!” she says.

Brown tweed suits were paired with floral ties and pocket squares – “and little bee brooches to continue the wild flower/nature theme” – to give the groom and his groomsmen a tailored yet on-trend look.

With a relaxed approach to catering being key to creating a festival vibe, guests tucked into giant paella and mini desserts alongside the atmospheric sounds of the Brass Junkies.

“On Sunday, my nan’s husband cooked an absolute feast of pulled pork buns, chicken shawarma, and vegan cheese and vegetarian burritos,” adds Lisa of the next-day delights on offer.

“I think the main thing that stood out for us was just the amount of love there was at the wedding!” she says, looking back. “Our family and friends did so much for us to make our day so special, and there were so many personal touches. Everyone was in such high spirits and we joined up many parts of our lives all in one place and they all embraced each other and had a great time.”

As for advice for nearly-weds, Lisa encourages others not to stress about things out of their control. “Remember that even if something doesn’t turn out exactly as you had in your mind, your guests will not know any different.”

122

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

LISA AND TOM PHOTOGRAPHY: FRECKLE PHOTOGRAPHY

123

got wed | LISA AND TOM PHOTOGRAPHY: FRECKLE PHOTOGRAPHY

“We joined up many parts of our lives all in one place.”

124

Devon

#45 2020

Photography

Freckle Photography frecklephotography.co.uk

Venue

Ash Barton ashbarton.com

Dress

Ellis Bridals ellisbridals.co.uk

Bridesmaids’ dresses

ASOS asos.com

Groom’s outfit

The Vintage Suit Hire Company vintagesuithire.co.uk

Hair

Pinned to Perfection pinnedtoperfection.co.uk

Flowers

Offshore Blooms facebook.com/OffshoreBlooms

Catering

H&A Catering hacatering.biz

Entertainment

Brass Junkies brassjunkies.co.uk

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

125

got wed

JUST THE TWO OF US

Raechel and Rob stole away to the Devon countryside for a dream elopement wedding featuring a private chef, spectacular surrounds and relaxed together time “We actually met on Facebook,” reveals Raechel. “Rob is the guitarist of one of my favourite bands, I am a singer and we had many mutual friends on social media. We got chatting about music, the industry and other subjects and were friends for some years before we became romantically involved.”

Rob proposed during a laid-back summer’s evening in their lounge while the couple were listening to Beck’s ‘Morning Phase’ on vinyl and drinking wine.

“Rob simply asked me there and then. It was intimate, extremely special and very ‘us’,” says Raechel.

With their original plans of a large wedding celebration being thwarted due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the couple came across Millbrook Cottages and decided to steal away for an elopement wedding deep in the north Devon countryside.

Arriving some days in advance of the wedding allowed Raechel and Rob the opportunity to unwind in the spellbinding setting. “We spent a couple of days discovering Millbrook with gorgeously picturesque strolls in the woodlands, chatting to the resident chicks, cats and other animals, and venturing out for meals,” says Raechel. “By the morning of the wedding, we felt relaxed and refreshed and ready for our big day.”

A pretty colour scheme of sherbet peaches, antique rose and foliage set the tone for their “vintage, shabby chic and relaxed” celebration, including hydrangeas, roses and foliage in the bouquet, buttonhole and Raechel’s hair. Raechel wore a gorgeously embellished gown by Justin Alexander, while Rob donned a blue linen suit.

Their summerhouse ceremony provided the couple’s most cherished moments.

“For me, it was seeing Rae walking up the steps towards me and the look on her face,” says Rob. Meanwhile, Raechel cites: “Saying our vows and knowing that we meant every word of them.”

The newly-weds then enjoyed champagne and photos around the sun-lit grounds before retiring to their cottage to relax ahead of their sumptuous evening feast.

This was prepared by their “outstanding” private chef and planner for the day, Justine Wood, and served in the candlelit sanctuary where they’d taken those all-important vows.

A vegan afternoon tea featuring the likes of veggie wraps, spring rolls, pakora, courgette hors d’oeuvres, and vegan brownies and scones proved the perfect tastebud primer for their supper feast of oysters, mussels, seasoned mushrooms, cauliflower tempura, green tofu curry, sweet potato curry, sorbet with berries, rose and chocolate fondant, and vegan Eton mess.

“Our wedding was truly amazing and as it was just the two of us, really focused on what getting married is about,” she says, reflecting on their dreamily intimate day.

“We had a team of people around us who were on hand when we needed them but maintained a polite distance to let us enjoy the intimacy and joy of our day.”

She advises other couples: “Don’t make a wedding about other people. Make a list of what really matters to you and stick to a budget. It’s really easy to get carried away with costs of favours or invites – the truth is, what matters on the day is the both of you. Don’t let others steer you to a day that you’ll get lost in.”

126

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

RAECHEL AND ROB PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHELLE LEY PHOTOGRAPHY

“As it was just the two of us, our wedding really focused on what getting married is about.”

127

got wed | RAECHEL AND ROB PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHELLE LEY PHOTOGRAPHY

128

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

RAECHEL AND ROB PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHELLE LEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography

Michelle Ley Photography michelleleyphotography.com

Venue

Millbrook Cottages & Estate millbrookestate.co.uk

Dress

Justin Alexander from Shades of White shades-of-white.co.uk

Hair

Hair by Hannah hairbyhannah.net

Flowers

Alice Shaw Flora aliceshawflora.co.uk

Planning & catering

Justine Wood justine-wood.co.uk

129

got wed

NEW YORK STATE OF MIND

Ellie and Ben started the year with a bang, thanks to their New Year’s Eve wedding with a New York luxe feel at Harefield Barn Ellie and Ben got engaged at the boating lake in New York’s Central Park during what can only be described as a very near miss. “Unknown to me, it was almost scuppered by our nine-month-old son having a meltdown at several previous potential moments that day!” laughs Ellie.

Harefield Barn provided the stunning blank canvas and beautiful rural backdrop for their New Year’s Eve wedding, which carried a stylish colour scheme of white and green with copper accents.

“We loved the ‘New York luxe’ vibes when researching, which had a slight industrial look and worked well with Ben being a scaffolder,” explains Ellie. “He built us a ceremony arch that I then decorated with drapes and flowers, and a table plan.”

Classically glamorous touches carried throughout, from the foliage-filled centrepieces dotted with cream blooms to the elegant drapes and carnival of tea lights and fairy lights, which enhanced the magical atmosphere. The bridesmaids wore chic gowns in shades of dark green and black teamed with softly waved hair, while Ellie dazzled in a gorgeous beaded gown that paired perfectly with the dapper tuxedos of Ben and his groomsmen.

Ellie cites the mid-afternoon ceremony as her highlight of the day, which was followed by drinks and canapés in the bar ahead of a fast food-style menu with an indulgent twist.

“We wanted food we love,” says Ellie. “We chose burgers in handmade brioche buns with sides such as sweet potato fries and mac ‘n’ cheese, with millionaire’s tart for dessert!”

Departing with other traditional elements saw Ellie – “being in a time of equality!” – deliver her own bridal speech, which she lists as another unforgettable moment of the day.

A live band kept the dance floor filled all night, while roast potatoes and caramelised sausage rolls were served just ahead of midnight to keep energy levels up.

After seeing in the new year in inimitable style, carriages transported guests home in the early hours, leaving Ellie and Ben to commence the beginning of the year – and the rest of their lives – together.

“Get a spreadsheet on the go for budget and timings,” advises Ellie as one of her top planning tips. “Give a schedule of the day to all of the wedding party and the venue so everyone knows their jobs. It might feel over the top but the more detail you plan, the less you have to think about on the day,” she adds.

130

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

ELLIE AND BEN

“Walking down the aisle to marry my best friend was my favourite moment.”

131

got wed | ELLIE AND BEN

Harefield Barn harefieldbarn.co.uk

Venue

132

Hair

Ash Salon ashsalon.co.uk

Flowers

Katie Clements kablooms@hotmail.com

Transport

Apple Central Taxis appletaxisexeter.co.uk

Catering

Exe Catering thesandwichshopexeter.co.uk

Entertainment

Black & Gold earcandylive.co.uk/acts/black-and-gold

Videography

Soby Films sobyfilms.co.uk

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

KATHERINE 07718 733843 / STEPHAN 07899 794005 THE OLD MANSE, WHIMPLE, EXETER , EX5 2SS WWW.NOVAWEDDINGPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

Transforming a space into a beautiful oasis ... the simplest touches make the biggest difference.

Tree & Plant Hire

133

got wed

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

Laura and Dan’s laid-back country wedding at The Oak Barn featured vibrant flowers, mouth-watering food and an array of personalised details Arranging to have some work done on her house led to love for Laura and Dan. “What was supposed to be a simple one-day job turned into multiple visits over weeks with various parts of the job going wrong,” says Laura. “Friends still can’t decide if Dan messed up the job on purpose or whether I was sabotaging the work inbetween visits! Either way, we got to spend a lot of time together and things developed pretty quickly from there.”

After their engagement at Haldon Belvedere, the stunning setting of their first date, the couple soon fell for the charms of another Devon beauty spot for their wedding venue. An idyllic rural backdrop for their “bright and colourful” wedding, they decorated The Oak Barn in Hittisleigh Barton with a smattering of personal touches while showcasing its unique charm.

“Dan spent a lot of weekends spray-painting tin cans in bright colours for our table flowers,” says Laura. “We aimed to make everything as personal as we could, so all place settings were photographs of the guests and the table plan was photos attached to flower tins on a pallet. Wedding favours were small glass bottles containing spirits that the guests had been able to select on their invitation.”

The most important thing, Laura says, “was to create something that was as fun and relaxed as possible. It was really important to us that no one involved was anxious or worried about any part of the day, so we had no speeches, no traditional first dance or cutting of the cake – only drinking, garden games and dancing!”

A Friday evening barbecue set the relaxed mood, and the next day, guests were welcomed early for drinks and garden games before the ceremony.

“The garden games were hilarious,” recalls Laura. “We just spent most of the day laughing!”

“The ceremony was the favourite moment for us both,” reveals Laura.

“It was held in the Acorn Barn, which was just perfect. It felt really personal and we both laughed most of our way through it. It was the one moment of the day where we were totally focused on each other.”

Canapés, drinks and more games continued after the ceremony, helping guests to work up an appetite for the mouth-watering feast that followed.

Starters of chicken liver parfait and crispy halloumi were followed by Elston Farm chicken breast, samphire and broad bean gnocchi. A delectable trio of desserts – chocolate brownie, meringue with Chantilly cream and fruit compote, and Baileys and vanilla crème brûlée – completed the fabulous belly fill.

“There was very little structure to the day, and we were exceptionally lucky with the weather,” says Laura, reflecting on their day. “Something that stands out to us were how utterly amazing and lovely our suppliers were.”

As for one of the easiest ways to ensure a stress-free planning period: “Make the most of the help friends and family can offer,” she advises.

“Above all else – let things go. We wanted our wedding planning to be as fun as possible, so the moment something doesn’t feel fun anymore then let it go.”

134

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

LAURA AND DAN PHOTOGRAPHY: ALEX TOZE

“We wanted everything to be as bright and colourful as possible.”

135

got wed | LAURA AND DAN PHOTOGRAPHY: ALEX TOZE

136

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

LAURA AND DAN PHOTOGRAPHY: ALEX TOZE

Photography

Alex Toze alextozeweddings.co.uk

Venue

The Oak Barn theoakbarn.co.uk

Dress

Willowby by Watters from The Ivory Secret

theivorysecret.co.uk Groom’s outfit

Zebel Bespoke zebel.co.uk

Hair

Viva Hair 134 vivahair134.co.uk

Make-up

Changing Faces changingfaces.net

Flowers

Florence and Flowers florenceandflowers.co.uk

Brooch bouquet

Brooch Bride broochbride.co.uk

Cake

The Cake Lady Devon thecakeladydevon.co.uk

Catering

M Welsh Catering mwelshcatering.co.uk

Entertainment

The Generations thegenerationsband.co.uk

137

got wed

SMALL AND SPECTACULAR

Big dreams can be condensed into something smaller with just as much character and love – as Nina and Tom proved during their intimate wedding at Brickhouse Vineyard An early spring engagement in Paris led to Nina and Tom planning a late spring wedding the following year that, due to Covid-19, had to be completely changed.

“We originally had booked a larger wedding at a different venue for roughly 80 guests so we put everything on hold and had to re-evaluate what was important and whether we would want to alter our day,” says Nina.

“We decided to completely start again and wanted that new wedding planning excitement back,” she explains. “We considered eloping at one stage and then settled on an intimate wedding with only 12 other guests. Brickhouse Vineyard seemed the perfect venue for us. Before lockdown we had previously looked at it but at the time their maximum capacity was 50 so we decided against it. When we knew we were going to have a really intimate wedding, Brickhouse was the first place that sprung to mind.”

Their “relaxed, wild flower-inspired” celebration with a focus on blush flowers and dahlias – Nina’s favourite bloom – saw a smattering of petal-pretty details alongside bespoke décor.

“The paper cranes were made by our florist Emma and a nice touch to our day as I’m half Japanese,” says Nina, who wore a beautiful 1940s lace wedding dress.

The rustic wedding cake, adorned with gold leaf, white cranes and matching flowers, complemented Nina’s handcrafted stationery and pulled the beautiful look together.

The beautifully intimate ceremony was followed by confetti in the vineyard, canapés on the terrace, a photo booth in a campervan and garden games, which all made for a laid-back and fun afternoon.

A sit-down meal featuring the likes of Devon crab, corn-fed chicken breast, cannon of lamb, Moroccan baked cauliflower and pomegranate couscous was completed with a host of desserts including chocolate and hazelnut tart, orange sorbet and lime meringue.

After dinner, a surprise wedding video compilation created by Tom’s brother Charlie was played. “He had gathered videos from missing family and friends with the help of others and made a wonderful mix of messages that we all watched together. There was barely a dry eye in the house; it all got very emotional, but it was so special as we felt everybody was with us in their own special way,” says Nina.

“We are so happy that we were able to have our wedding day,” she says, while in the throes of looking back. “The dream changed a little along the way but we got to celebrate our love with our families and having our beautiful photographs and wedding video has enabled us to be able to share it with our friends and other family members who weren’t able to be there in person. We are planning on having a party whenever we are able to celebrate with our originally invited guests,” she adds.

“Stay true to yourselves – small personal touches go a long way,” she reminds couples of the importance of using their own characters as inspiration. “We always said we would want people to be able to tell it was our wedding even without us being there.”

138

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

NINA AND TOM PHOTOGRAPHY: TARA STATTON PHOTOGRAPHY

139

got wed | NINA AND TOM PHOTOGRAPHY: TARA STATTON PHOTOGRAPHY

“We had a gorgeous intimate wedding day with our families.”

140

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

NINA AND TOM PHOTOGRAPHY: TARA STATTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography

Tara Statton Photography

tarastattonphotography.com

Venue

Brickhouse Vineyard brickhousevineyard.co.uk

Dress

Days of Grace Vintage daysofgracevintage.com

Bridesmaids’ dresses

ASOS asos.com

Groom’s outfit

Moss Bros moss.co.uk

Hair

Starcuts Salon facebook.com/starcuts.starcross

Flowers

Emma Hewlett Floral Design emmahewlett.co.uk

Glass & tableware

Keeping It Vintage keepingitvintage.co.uk

141

got wed

A WINTER’S NIGHT

Jo and Sam’s wedding was a modern classic, fusing lush greenery with elegant décor Even though Jo and Sam both originate from Devon, the couple didn’t meet until they had both moved to Bristol and were introduced by mutual friends.

They got engaged while walking their new puppy on the beach in Salcombe in December 2018 and set the date for their Yuletide celebrations at Anran exactly one year later.

An enchanting combination of white and dusty pink tones subtly punctuated the statement greenery that lined the walls of the venue’s striking glasshouse. A hanging floral installation, candelabras, fairy lights and glassware filled with white and soft pink blooms completed the magical reception scene.

In keeping with the wintery aesthetic, Sam wore a velvet suit by Hugo Boss, while Jo stunned in a sleek and simple gown by Made With Love, accessorised with light-catching earrings and a bouquet of crisp white roses and foliage.

After their ceremony at nearby St Matthew Church, which included the rousing soundtrack of a gospel choir, guests enjoyed canapés and bubbly before settling at the elegantly styled tables for the sumptuous three-course wedding breakfast.

Beetroot-cured salmon with celeriac remoulade and heritage tomato with burrata, mint and basil oil perfectly primed tastebuds for a main course of black treacle and mustard-glazed organic Dexter beef brisket, and winter squash with slow-roast tomatoes, courgettes, mascarpone and gruyère.

Devonshire cheese, biscuits and homemade chutney followed, while sweet-toothed guests were later treated to a gorgeous home bake by Jo’s mum: a four-tier chocolate, vanilla, and lemon naked cake. The Shuffles Band performed an uplifting setlist for the evening merriment, with Goat on a Trolley providing the tunes for the late-night revellers.

“The glasshouse and how beautiful it looked as the sun went down and the darkness appeared,” recalls Jo of her most memorable image from the day. “All the fairy lights and candles made it look so wintery and magical! I was always sceptical about having a winter wedding, but it felt so unique, Christmassy and special!”

While unable to choose a single best moment – “We had the best day of our lives!” – Jo is able to offer up plenty of sound advice to others in the throes of planning their day. “Try not to stress!” she implores. “Everything works out on the day and everyone is so happy for you that I promise – regardless of what happens – your day will be even better than you pictured.”

142

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

JO AND SAM PHOTOGRAPHY: KATY JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

143

got wed | JO AND SAM PHOTOGRAPHY: KATY JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

144

Devon

#45 2020

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

JO AND SAM PHOTOGRAPHY: KATY JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

“All the fairy lights and candles made it look so wintery and magical.”

Photography

Katy Jones Photography katyjonesphotos.co.uk

Venue

Anran anran.co.uk

Dress

Made With Love, The White Collection thewhitecollectionbridal.co.uk

Groom’s outfit

Hugo Boss hugoboss.com/uk

Hair

The Updo Girl theupdogirl.com

Make-up

Jade Isla Makeup jadeislamakeup.co.uk

Flowers

Simply Flowers simplyflowersdevon.com

Cake

Sue Clifford

Décor hire

Keeping It Vintage keepingitvintage.co.uk

Prestige Event Equipment Hire prestigehire.biz

Total Event Hire totaleventhire.co.uk

Entertainment

Gospel Touch Choir gtchoir.com

The Shuffles Band theshufflesband.com

Goat on a Trolley facebook.com/goatonatrolley

145

regular | NOTES ON A WEDDING

Plan a so-you celebration with these top tips from the wedding gurus. This issue, we look at philanthropic ways to give back with your wedding

NOTES ON A WEDDING Macmillan

Pass it on. Donate your dress, thereby helping a charitable cause but also ensuring someone else has the chance to have a memorable day in your stunning dress.

Jessica

ort

Cancer Supp

Cont raba nd

No more waste. Donate any food waste to the less fortunate. Speak to your caterer about safely packaging up any leftovers with the purpose of being sent to a nearby homeless shelter, which will need to be preagreed with the organisation. Maisie

Enter ta inmen t

Claire Penn Photography

Clare Kinchin Photography

phy

gers Photogra

McKinley-Rod

Macmillan Cancer Sup

Sarah Lauren Photogr

Clare Kinchin

Photography

Freckle Photography

Clare Kinchin Photography

aphy

port

Knots & Kisses

Andy Gaines

146

Devon

#45 2020

Photography

Sustainable sojourn. Consider others when you’re in your beautiful honeymoon location. Research local cooperatives to buy the mementos you want to take home, or seek out an eco-tourism option such as a tour to help support sustainable tourism.

Jessica Do a favour. Look at charity options for your favours – including anything from a branded charity pin, such as Macmillan Cancer Support, to something from Arthouse Unlimited, a delightful charity presenting the artistic talents of adults living with learning and physical difficulties.

Rebecca History lesson. Holding your wedding at a heritage environment or historic building, such as Historic Royal Palaces, means that the income that organisation receives from your venue hire goes directly to help maintain the upkeep. You can help preserve beautiful buildings ensuring they will be here for future generations. Jessica Say it with flowers. Gift any floral arrangements left over from the big day to a local care home or hospital. A gesture such as this will mean so much and will truly brighten up the residents’ day. Maisie Helpful honeymoon. Take a look at organisations you can volunteer with while on your honeymoon. There are some great charities all over the world where you can explore a different country and have a memorable experience safe in the knowledge that you’re doing good.

Rebecca Festive cheer. If you have a wedding close to Christmas, ask guests to donate a toy to local children who might not get a present, instead of buying you a gift. The Salvation Army runs an appeal every year. Jessica

Keep it local. Use local suppliers, which will result in increased jobs, great quality products and personalised services across Cornwall and Devon. Maisie Be charitable. Register with a charity instead of for gifts. There are lots of wonderful charities that could either be dear to you as a couple, local to where you live or perhaps a split across different charity sectors. Rebecca Dress to impress. Choose an ethically made wedding dress. Look incredible, whilst knowing you helped support a good cause and encouraged designers to look at every element of their supply chain. Jessica ‘I do’ donations. Make it easy for others to donate by setting up a JustGiving page on your wedding website. You can explain why you’ve chosen the specific charity, so your friends and family are more likely to resonate with your choice and be more inclined to donate on behalf of you as a couple. Maisie Heartfelt thanks. Even with your thank you cards, it’s possible to give back – plenty of charities offer beautiful blank cards that you could use, enabling the charity to benefit from the thanks you send out.

Jessica Pay it forward. The Exeter-based Wedding Wishing Well Foundation provides weddings to those who have a terminal illness, and help is required from the general public with donations welcomed in all forms. This could be a pre-loved wedding dress, a supplier service such as photography or your own personal wedding décor. Ultimately, a whole team comes together to give the gift of a wedding. Maisie Jessica Kearney, Ardour & Bow Weddings & Events ardourandbow.co.uk Rebecca Green, Rebel & Anchor rebelandanchor.co.uk Maisie Cook, Jenny Wren Weddings & Events jennywrenweddingsandevents.co.uk

www.wedmagazine.co.uk

1 Tregenna Hill - St Ives - TR26 1SE - 01736 799 413 www.stivesbridalboutique.co.uk - sayyes@stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

147

LOVELY

Charlie Brear – Jesus Peiro – Stephanie Allin – Rosa Clara – Hera Couture – Rembo Styling Honiton, Devon 148

Devon

#45 2020

www.lovelybridal.co.uk

www.wedmagazine.co.uk