Top Tier Wedding Guide Issue 10

Top

Free SPRING ISSUE 10

Tier Wedding Guide

Welcome

Congratulations on your engagement!

It’s time to start planning one of the most important journeys of your life and we are so pleased you choose us to help you plan your special day!

No matter how short your engagement is we are here to help you every step of the way. With our trustee suppliers, ideas, real wedding features and tips we have it covered. Along side this magazine we will be running more Top Tier Wedding Fairs in 2019 to get you face to face to those all important suppliers with their advice and tips. We will also be spoiling you with ideas, catwalks, demos and much more. So keep an eye on our Facebook page for up and coming dates.

Making so many decisions for your big day can seem daunting but immerse yourself in inspiration to help you create that all important mood board. This can always be changed and adapted along the way, but try and bring your ideas together to reflect you as a couple. Remember to make decisions when your ready and they will be the right ones rather than rush into impulsive buys you may later regret!

Enjoy

Charlotte x 01633 489329

www.charlottealexander.co.uk 28A Victoria Street, Old Cwmbran, NP44 3JS 2 | Bridal Wear

Pg 22 Pg 30

Pg 29

Pg 40

Pg 37

We Cover: Mid, South Wales, Monmouthshire & Herefordshire

In This Issue 04-05 Wedding Fair Dates 07-08 Bridal Wear/Menswear

Charlotte Lloyd, Editor and Creator.

09 Wedding Dress Shopping Tips

t: 077240 28450 e: charlottecookie.lloyd@gmail.com www.toptierwedding.co.uk

14 Wedding Checklist

Whilst making every effort to ensure that advertisements are factually correct, Top Tier Magazine cannot take responsibility for any misleading or incorrect information contained therein. All artwork produced within this publication belongs to Top Tier and must not be reproduced in any form without permission from the editor.

12-13 Venues 15 Venues 16-17 Marquees/Venues & Trailers 18-19 Bars/Catering/Cakes 22-23 Real Weddings 40-41 Top Tier Fairs/Step Ahead |3

Spring 2019

HATBATTY Hats & Fascinators for Hire

www.cjweddingfayres.co.uk

9 Priory hill, brecon ld3 9dh

All fayres are 11am - 3pm (unless stated) Free Entry & Goody Bag! 6th January 2019

Liberty Stadium, Swansea Landore, Swansea SA1 2FA

GreenMeadow Golf & Country Club Croesyceiliog, Cwmbran, NP44 2BZ

13th January 2019

The Towers Hotel & Spa

Jersey Marine, Swansea, SA10 6JL

Maes Manor Country Hotel Blackwood, Wales NP12 0AG

20th January 2019

Village Hotel, Cardiff

Coryton, Cardiff, CF14 7EF

Coldra Court Hotel by Celtic Manor (Formerly Hilton Hotel), Newport, NP18 2LX

17th March 2019

St Mellons Golf Club Cardiff St Mellons, Cardiff, CF3 2XS

24th March 2019 Parc y Scarlets

Parc Pemberton, Llanelli, SA14

7th April 2019

The Towers Hotel & Spa

Jersey Marine, Swansea, SA10 6JL

Pippa: 07792 894486

Blackwood, Wales NP12 0AG

Email: hatbattybrecon@gmail.com

Mercure Swansea Hotel

Donations to Cancer Charity

3rd February 2019

Nelson, Treharris, CF46 6ER

Liberty Stadium, Swansea

St Mellons Hotel & Spa, Cardiff Castleton, Cardiff CF3 2XR

10th February 2019

Mercure Swansea Hotel

Phoenix Way, Swansea, SA7 9EG

17th February 2019

Copthorne Hotel Cardiff

Culverhouse Cross, Cardiff, CF5 6DH

12th May 2019

Landore, Swansea SA1 2FA

Holiday Inn Newport

The Coldra, Newport, NP18 2YG

19th May 2019

Coldra Court Hotel by Celtic Manor (Formerly Hilton Hotel), Newport, NP18 2LX

Aberavon Beach Hotel

24th February 2019

Port Talbot, Swansea SA12 6QP

Ystrad Mynch, CF82 7ED

Coryton, Cardiff, CF14 7EF

Port Talbot, Swansea SA12 6QP

Copthorne Hotel Cardiff

Shappelles

Aberavon Beach Hotel

Village Hotel, Cardiff

2nd June 2019

3rd March 2019

Culverhouse Cross, Cardiff, CF5 6DH

Caerphilly Castle, CF83 1JD

Nelson, Treharris, CF46 6ER

Caerphilly Castle

10th March 2019

Holiday Inn Newport

The Coldra, Newport, NP18 2YG

4 | Fair Dates

Wide range of stock to suit all ages

14th April 2019

Maes Manor Country Hotel

Phoenix Way, Swansea, SA7 9EG

Llancaiach Fawr Manor

Changing Facilities Available Bring your outfit to try on

Llancaiach Fawr Manor

9th June 2019

St Mellons Hotel & Spa, Cardiff Castleton, Cardiff CF3 2XR

Enquiries: info@cjweddingfayres.co.uk 01495 822483 / 07958 050 171

Based in Llanidloes, Mid Wales, we have over 500 fascinators & hatinators for that special occasion.

To book an appointment to come and visit our home based summerhouse you can contact us on -

t: 01686 888020 e: info@lovefascinators.co.uk www.lovefascinators.co.uk

Wedding Fair Dates THE MANOR CRICKHOWELL 6th January 12pm - 4pm GWESTY YR - MARIE HOTEL ABERSTWYTH 12th January 11am - 4pm GLEN-YR-AFON HOUSE HOTEL USK WEDDING SHOWCASE 12th - 13th January 10am - 4pm BUCKLAND HALL WEDDING OPEN DAY 13th January 11am - 2pm CRAIG Y NOS CASTLE 19th - 20th January 11am - 4pm STRADEY PARK HOTEL & SPA 20th January 11am - 3pm PETERSTONE COURT BRECON 27th January 1pm - 5pm Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

METROPOLE LLANDRINDOD WELLS 17th February 11am - 3pm THREE SALMONS, USK 24th February 12 - 4pm TOP TIER WEDDING FAIR TALL JOHN’S HOUSE BRECON 3rd March 11am - 3pm MAESMAWR HOTEL CAERSW 7th April 11am - 3pm TOP TIER WEDDING FAIR ROYAL WELSH SHOWGROUND BUILTH WELLS 6th October 11am - 3pm PLEASE CHECK WEBSITES TO CONFIRM TIMES & DATES OR TOP TIER FACEBOOK PAGE |5

Wedding Belles AT LAURA’S

For the latest bridal trends and fashions Visit our Shop Online weddingbellesatlauras.com/shop We can offer you suits by Peter Posh and we have a beautiful range of Bridesmaids and Prom dresses available Please come and see us we’d love to hear from you

Best Bridal Boutique in Wales 2018

t n e r e f if d e b to e r a D

01686 412118

Regional Winners 5 years running

samantha@weddingbellesatlauras.co.uk | www.weddingbellesatlauras.com Units E-H | The Old Station | Llanidloes | Powys | SY18 6EB

|7

Wedding Dress Shopping Tips

1. Budget - If you have a budget for your gown then let us know. As a Bridal Store it helps us pick out dresses for you, and it also stops you from falling in love with a dress that you simply can’t afford.

2. Give yourself time - Most wedding dresses take 6-8 months to be made and delivered to store.

Don’t forget alterations as well can take 6-8 weeks to be done. Ideally you need to start looking for your wedding dress 9-12 months before the big day

just a number!!! We are much more concerned with

to allow time for all these factors. Don’t have much

how the gown fits you and how fabulous it makes

time? Talk to the Bridal Store, they may be able to

you look.

offer a ‘rush’ option or an ‘off - the - peg’ option.

7. Location, location, location - If

3. Pick your Bride Tribe wisely -

married outside, make this a consideration when

when you go wedding dress shopping. We suggest

choosing your Wedding Dress. As much as that

keeping numbers small (2-3) as to many opinions

full skirted, princess gown with the ultra long train

can be quite overwhelming, and make choosing a

looks and feels amazing, will it work for the outdoor

dress difficult. Pick people whose opinion you trust,

woodland wedding you have planned....

who understand your style, and will make your ap-

8. Ask Questions -

pointment fun + relaxed.

4. Book Ahead - It’s always best to book ap-

about alterations, delivery times, cost...underwear choices (yes, I have been asked about what

Some Bridal Stores operate on an ‘Appointment

underwear to wear) We honestly don’t mind being

Only’ basis and might turn you away if you just

quizzed during bridal appointments, it’s exactly what

show up. Weekends can be booked up well in

we’re here for.

Wedding Dress shopping be sure to book an appointment to avoid disappointment.

5. Be Open-minded - It is helpful to know

9. Trust your Gut - If you don’t like a dress, don’t be afraid to say so. Even if your bride tribe keeps telling you how ‘pretty’ you look, but your not feeling it then - DO WHAT YOU LIKE!!! Follow

what you like to narrow down the gowns you try

your heart. At the end of the day it’s you who will be

on at your appointment. But don’t be afraid to try

wearing the dress, so you make the final decision.

on something different... you might be pleasantly surprised.

6. Forget about Sizing - Size is just a number!!!

Wedding dress sizes are very different to those on the high street so don’t get worked up by what it says on the label because at the end of the day it is

www.toptierwedding.co.uk

Don’t be afraid to ask

questions when trying on wedding dresses? Ask

pointments when going wedding dress shopping.

advance, so if you’ve got a day in mind for your

8 | Bridal Wear

your having a destination wedding or are getting

Take care with who you choose to come with you

Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

10 - Don’t be afraid to say YES to the first dress - It’s OK to say yes to that first dress.

Sometimes nothing will compare, you might try on the rest of the shop to find yourself going back to dress number one, and that’s OK. Trust your Gut.

by Brecon Bridal x |9

Castle Brides Bridal Boutique 01588 638 332 07814 022 358 castlebrides@btinternet.com www.castlebrides.co.uk The Stables, Lower Aston Farm, Montgomery Powys SY15 6SY

NEW Menswear

10 | Bridal Wear | Photography

www.toptierwedding.co.uk

Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

| 11

cottage which adjoins the barn. We also include the wedding night for the happy couple in our sensational one bed cottage, The Coachmans with a romantic wedding breakfast basket.

Tall John’s House has recently developed our

beautiful stone barn in the grounds as a wedding venue. This space is an ideal blank canvas venue - to style as you wish. The protected courtyards on either side of the barn provide extra outdoor space with views out across the Black Mountains.

You are welcome to attach your own marquee to the barn if you wish. You and your guests can also enjoy the exquisite grounds at Tall Johns House, including the stunning walled garden. Included in the rental are 2 nights in our 4 bed/4 bath Honeysuckle

We don’t charge corkage and we do allow fireworks and confetti. We can also help with camping. We are licensed to hold ceremonies on site in the barn itself, in our newly refurbished Granary or in the charming gazebo in the gardens. There are also several attractive churches in easy reach. Our location is perfect – private, exclusive and tranquil but not too far from the outside world for your guests to get here!

We Offer: • Blank canvas venue • Exclusive Use of our beautiful grounds • Incredible private position • NO set suppliers or corkage • Gazebo in gardens for civil ceremony • Granary for civil ceremony or additional reception space • Cottage accommodation included • Cottage included for bridal couple • Elegant Georgian manor house available • Integral toilets and catering area.

Come and Join us at the Top Tier Wedding Fair on Sunday 3rd March between 11am - 3pm, and see our beautiful stone barn for yourself.

TALL JOHN’S HOUSE Llangasty | Near Brecon | Powys |LD3 7PX

Tall John’s House has recently restored and rejuvenated their beautiful stone barn.

This blank canvas venue - is perfect for those of you looking to create your dream day.

Creating Memories.......

Winner of ‘BEST Venue Based Wedding Coordinator in all of Wales’ and finalist in ‘BEST Wedding Venue in Powys & Ceredigion’ at the Welsh National Wedding Awards, our team works tirelessly to ensure your day is faultless.

Our family run business with over 100 years of combined wedding planning experience can offer you assistance and guidance throughout the planning process but we never forget IT’S YOUR DAY.

We know every bride is different, every couple is unique and your wedding day should reflect that.

To help you create the wedding day of your dreams we offer you the chance to make the barn your own - your friends, your family, your style.

YOUR day, YOUR way.

Using our extensive supplier list you can decorate, furnish, light and personalise the barn to your own tastes, and your own budget.

Call (0)1239 821143 | Email office@talljohns.wedding | www.talljohns.wedding 12 | Venues

www.toptierwedding.co.uk

Call: 01686 688255 Email: reservations@maesmawrhall.co.uk www.maesmawrhall.co.uk Maesmawr Hall Hotel | Caersws | Powys | SY17 5SF Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

| 13

Wedding Checklist 12 Months Before

Sort out your budget

Start on the guest list Book your venue and church

Send out Invites

Arrange chair cover hire or rental items Sort out stag and hen do’s

5 Months Before

Purchase all bridal party accessories

Book the caterers

Finalize menu with your caterer

Book the photographer and videographer

Book hair and Make-up for your big day

Take out wedding insurance

4 Months Before

Start looking for your wedding dress

Confirm number of bouquets, centrepieces and button holes with florist

Start researching your bands and book!

11 Months Before

Choose your bridal party and attendants Determine your wedding theme - think about flowers that are in season!

10 Months Before Finalize guest list

Arrange who will perform the ceremony Arrange bridal party and attendants outfits Order your dress to allow time for alterations.

9 Months Before

Arrange marriage licence

3 Months Before

Arrange your Order of Service Buy gifts for the wedding party

2 Months Before

Final fitting for your wedding dress Book nails, fake tan, etc Finalize seating plan

Plan and book Honeymoon

Finish DIY projects

Buy the wedding rings

7 Months Before

1 Months Before

Reconfirm the wedding arrangements with all suppliers and share venue details Arrange a date for a wedding rehearsal Write the wedding vows and speeches Wear-in your wedding shoes

Start thinking about hair and make-up.

Test new products if need be!

Order of service copy to vicar

Meet with your vicar or registrar

Hand over a list to someone you trust to check everything on the day!

Arrange evening entertainment

Llanhamlach, Brecon, Powys, Wales, LD3 7YB

T: 01874 665387 | E: enquiries@peterstone-court.com | www.peterstone-court.com

Confirm guest attendance

Arrange wedding transport if needed

Order bridal accessories

for all Seasons

Arrange welcome drinks

Final guest list to caterer

Start planning your wedding stationery

Weddings

Arrange your wedding cake

Book your florist

8 Months Before

14 |

6 Months Before

Manicure for Bride and Groom

www.toptierwedding.co.uk

Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

| 15

Buckland Hall Exclusively yours.......

• A country mansion for you to tailor-make the wedding of your dreams • 60 acres of beautiful grounds including lake and woodlands • Stunning location in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons • Banquet Dining for up to 150 people or 250 for buffets • Licensed for civil ceremonies and civil partnerships • 24 hour bar and entertainment licenses • Dedicated, in-house Wedding Co-ordinator to support you every step of the way

www.bucklandhallweddings.co.uk Photo by: Clare Vida Price Photography

Telephone: 01497 820 882 - 07795 958 421

16 |

Buckland Hall | Bwlch | Brecon | LD3 7JJ t: 01874 730330 | e: info@bucklandhall.co.uk

Email: mail@acacia-marquees.co.uk

www.toptierwedding.co.uk

Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

| 17

Truly Scrumptious

Sugarloaf Catering Wedding & Bespoke Event Catering

Are you planning an event or wedding?

Need a bar?

Penmaenau Bars

Buffet23

have the solution for you.

We take away all of the hassle and worries and get on with the job providing you and your guests with quality drinks from professional staff, a good wedding bar will make your big day!

Catering for any event

t: 01495 793325 e: info@sugarloafcatering.co.uk www.sugarloafcatering.co.uk

Andrew Murdoch Tel: 07725632603 email: buffet23brecon@gmail.com www.buffettwentythreebrecon.weebly.com

•Celebration Cakes •Afternoon Teas •Buffet Catering for all occasions •Homemade Cakes •Chilled Desserts

Sophie Jones 07794 554696 sophiejo118@hotmail.co.uk

We offer:

Highly experienced, smartly uniformed staff.

Quality glassware We can arrange welcome drinks Full arrangement of the licence (Temporary events notice)

We serve a wide range of beers, lagers, ciders, wines, spirits & soft drinks

Available to hire for Weddings, Festivals, Fairs and Events.

Contact: 07989 582799 or 07875 461247

Contact Minnie to book on: 01497 821 214 0753 22 33 070 or email: cmilaloyd@gmail.com

18 |

A beautiful vintage ice cream trike

Bespoke flavour ice cream made on request.

Trike comes fully decorated & Sweet table available on request.

www.toptierwedding.co.uk

Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

| 19

A2B

Top Tier Cakes Award Winning Wedding Cakes

by Penny

The Cake Box Handmade Cakes for Weddings Parties and Special Occasions Llandrindod Wells | Powys

t: 01597 823234 e: info@thecakeboxwales.co.uk

www.thecakeboxwales.co.uk

Wedding Party

Cakes

for any t: 07968 155939 Occasion e: toptiercakes@live.co.uk f: Top Tier Cakes By Penny

by Mai

Contemporary & Traditional Cakes made with the finest ingredients.

Say “I do” in style Wye Jewellers 6 High Street Builth Wells

Tel: 01982 552550

Smart

Creative Cakes Celebration Cakes for all Occasions

By Mairwen Price t: 07896925821 mairwenp@yahoo.co.uk

TAXIS & MINIBUSES

Cookie

Graphic Design

Bespoke Wedding Cakes Cupcakes & Cookies

BESPOKE WEDDING STATIONERY DESIGNED & PRINTED FOR YOU

Transport also available for Stag & Hen Parties

4, 8 and 16 seat Vehicles available

Tel: 01874 65 88 99 or 07970 915 040 E-mail: a2btaxisuk@btconnect.com

www.a2btaxis.biz

P.V.P SYSTEMS TELEVISION WEDDING FILMS & DVDS

Professional Drone Coverage Now Available We offer an Attractive Price Range!

Amazing Quality and a Wealth of Experience.

Offering a Personal and Bespoke Service to create a stunning centrepiece for your day.

Fruit | Chocolate | Vanilla | Lemon | Carrot Cakes Dietary requirements can be accommodated.

Wedding Guest Favours are also available.

Prices vary with each cake and in your consultation I can advise & work with budgets.

Designed Especially For Your Occasion Tel: 01874 754079 Email: nicola@cakebynicola.co.uk www.cakebynicola.co.uk

20 |

www.toptierwedding.co.uk

07724028450

charlottecookie.lloyd@gmail.com

www.smart-cookiedesign.co.uk

Telephone 01686 430622 e-mail: info@pvptv.co.uk www.facebook.com/P.V.P.SystemsTelevision www.pvpsystemstelevision.co.uk | 21

We Love

Alex and Aaron Saturday 14th Ju

ly 2018

The Proposal- Saturday 28th January 2018 Aaron had been planning the proposal for months and started by looking for the perfect ring. After much research, he chose and designed my ring from 77 diamonds, London. The day of the proposal was a sunny winter’s day and we went for an afternoon walk along Castle Meadows in Abergavenny. On our way back, we sat on a bench overlooking the river and out of the blue Aaron got on one knee and popped the question!

Outfits I bought my wedding dress in the first bridal shop I visited- Laura May, Cardiff. I went for a very simple fitted style with a sweetheart neckline, accessorised with a belt and beaded lace jacket for the church service. The designer of the dress was Blue by Enzoani and my shoes were Rainbow Club. The suits were from Dyfed Menswear - we went for an Italian blue suit with a tweed waistcoat and bow ties.

The bridesmaid dresses were multiway dresses so the girls could choose a neckline that best suited their shape and style. I bought these from Marks and Spencer. To finish off our look, we had Philippa Torrance Bridal Hair to give us all a unique updo, Emma Haines Holistic Beauty to do our makeup and Love Lily Abergavenny provided the bouquets

22 | Real Wedding

and flower crowns. My mum got her ‘Mother of the Bride’ dress, shoes and bag from Baroque Boutique in Abergavenny and looked absolutely beautiful!

Venue We got married in St Paulinus Church, Llangorse which is where I lived for most of my childhood. From there, we organised a vintage double decker bus to take our guests from the church to our reception venue. We had a marquee reception on Glanusk Estate which is situated in the beautiful countryside of the Usk Valley and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The views and scenery really did seal the deal for us. Martin from Acacia Marquees was great and our marquee was everything we were hoping for. Our caterers were The Castle, Llangorse who provided the canapes, welcome drinks, three course wedding breakfast, hog roast, indoor bar and the outside gin bar!

Theme We decided on a rustic theme for the reception - we had haybales for outdoor seating, a beer barrow for welcome drinks, logs and decorated jars for the centre pieces, pallets for tables, handwritten blackboards and lots of homemade crafts. Aaron and I also wanted to make the day personal to www.toptierwedding.co.uk

us. For the canapes, we had food ‘stations’ which represented food from four countries that were meaningful to us. We had Welsh rarebit for Wales, a take on English breakfast for England, Bratwurst sausages for Germany and a traditional Polish pastry for Poland. We also had shots of Polish vodka for our wedding favours. We wanted the day to be laid back and relaxed.

Talking Point The main two talking points were the gin bar and magician. The gin bar, ‘Rin Tin Gin’, was a converted horse box provided by our caterers. They sold lots of different gin cocktails and it was very popular with our guests (and us!).

We also booked a magician, Luke Gravett, who arrived shortly after the wedding breakfast. He was amazing- a real life Harry Potter!! Other talking points included the food, the male voice choir who sang in the church, the views, the cupcakes and the band.

Best Buy Our best buy were the videographers- Posh Bear.

They captured the day so beautifully and Aaron and I were able to relive it when we received our hamper containing the videos and other goodies. The day Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

went by so quickly and there wasn’t time to take it all in, so it’s a lovely memory to keep and watch over and over again!

Suppliers Band- Chaser Bar/Caterers- The Castle Inn Llangorse Cake- Emily’s Kitchen Abergavenny Car- Cars For Stars Choir- Talgarth Male Voice Choir Double decker bus- London Bus 4 Hire Dress- Laura May, Cardiff Dress Alterations- Rhiannon J Ltd, Cardiff Florist- Love Lily, Abergavenny Hair- Philippa Torrance Bridal Hair Light up Letters- Booth Xperia Event Hire Magician- Luke Gravett Makeup- Emma Haines Holistic Beauty Marquee- Acacia Marquees Photographer- Matt Horan Stationary- Smart Cookie Wedding Stationery Suits- Dyfed Menswear, Cardiff Venue- Glanusk Estate, Crickhowell Videographer- Posh Bear

| 23

With over 10 years Wedding & Events Experience

Entertaining Your Guests is our Passion • Casino Tables • Ice Cream Trike • Magic Mirror Photo Booth • Light Up Letters • Traditional Garden Games

Wedding Harpist

07506 579453

Call Mared Emyr: 07507 824 797 e: maredemyr@yahoo.co.uk

Photo by Cat Beardsley Photography

WOW your guests...

For all your musical needs.

Info@thelittleeventscompany.co.uk www.thelittleeventscompany.co.uk Facebook @thelittleeventscompany

Please contact me to create a bespoke programme for your special day.

Prices start from £250

CARLSBORO SOUND

Are you prepared for your first dance?

You may have some great moves but what about your partner! Why not WOW your guests with a fully engaging performance. Rather than your guests watching you sway back and forth on the spot for the duration of your first dance together as husband and wife.

For an unforgettable first dance with flexible teaching either in the comfort of your own home or in the studio, Hannah at Pekary Dance can help guide you in the right direction. With her outstanding teaching skills Hannah can choreography a first dance that you both feel comfortable with.

Learning all the right moves will boost your confidence and help put them first dance nerves behind you. Your friends and family will love it!

A choreographed dance, to something sweet and romantic or an upbeat tune will have your guests up and on their feet and fully engaged in the moment. Making it a first dance to remember.

Contact Hannah on: 07793 020 666

For an unforgettable First Dance Flexible Teaching either at home or in the studio

Professional DJ Entertainment

Spectacular Music And Lighting Show With The Latest Video D J Technology Carlsboro Sound is a well-established, family run business providing event entertainment for weddings, parties and corporate events.

With over 35 years’ experience our DJ hire specialises in the provision of a wide range of music along with unique audio visual displays.

Mobile: 07718 732140 tel: 01597 823233 email: phil@carlsborosound.co.uk www.carlsborosound.co.uk 24 |

www.toptierwedding.co.uk

m: 07793 020 666 | e: hannah@pekarydance.co.uk | www.pekarydance.co.uk Dance Studio | St Andrew’s Church Hall | Pen-y-lan Road | Roath | Cardiff | CF24 3PB Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

| 25

Sara & Derek

We Love Friday 26th October 2018

The Proposal Derek suggested we walked up Pen Y Fan on Christmas day 2017. I love walking so I didn’t think anything of it. It was a cold, wet and windy day but great to be out in the fresh air. As we got to the top there were a few people about so I asked them to take a photo of our achievement. I climbed onto the summit first and as I turned around Derek was down on one knee holding out my ring! He proposed there and then. I was totally shocked but said “Yes”. It was such a perfect way to be proposed too. I was so pleased I had asked the lovely couple to take the photo we now have some great pictures for our memories.

The Outfits I loved my dress it was a beautifully fitted ivory satin dress with diamonds on the bodice and a laced up back designed by Maggie Sottero. I bought it from Satin and Silk in Hereford. The Bridesmaids wore Navy and sequined dresses designed by Mya. Derek wore a Royal blue suit with an ivory and blue waistcoat and an orange tie and the Groomsmen wore Navy, ivory and blue waistcoats and Teal ties.

We hired them from Evans and Wilkins.

26 | Real Wedding

Venue We chose The Bunkhouse in Glasbury to have our Civil ceremony. It was a beautiful space and stunning location next to Glasbury river. Jane and Kasie could not have been more helpful with our planning. We had our wedding breakfast and celebrations at Llanigon village hall. The guests were greeted with prosecco or fruit juice. We had a 3 course fork buffet. We used Piccadilly catering from the Strand in Talgarth. Kate did us proud, the food was amazing.

I know it isn’t traditional for the bride to make a speech but I felt it was a perfect time to thank all our family and friends for everything they have done for us over the years. Everyone loved all the speeches.

Theme We wanted a mix of vintage and an outdoor Autumnal theme. I also wanted Teal to be incorporated. We decorated both venues with Sunflowers and vases of Autumn coloured flowers.

My sister Katy and sister in law Caroline made the bunting which we hung from the ceilings and outside to bring both venues together. Fairy lights www.toptierwedding.co.uk

were hung at the front and back of the pulpit.

Each table was named after a Welsh mountain and we had navy table cloths, sunflowers and tea lights for decoration. We had two fabulous vintage camper vans to transport us to and from the venues. Billie Charity took some beautiful photos by Glasbury river with the mountains in the background.

Talking Point All the guests enjoyed the laid back feel to our ceremony. Fiona Games our registrar was brilliant and kept our nerves at bay. We had two beautiful readings either side of the marriage ceremony causing many tears to be shed. After the ceremony we all went down the big slide it was so much fun!!

Our wedding cake was made by Izzy Hearne it was a 3 tiered layered ‘naked ‘cake two fruit and one lemon. We also had 5 different flavours of cupcakes.

These went down a treat with all the guests!

We finished off our day with a fabulous party. A cold buffet once again provided by The Strand.

We had a local band The Ezzy Geezers they were complimented with the brilliant talent of DJ Max Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

Galatic a local DJ. We all danced the night away.

Best Buy Both the venues made for great value we were able to put our own stamp on them both. The camper vans were fabulous and both Sheryl and her husband couldn’t have been more helpful and attentive, we even had flowers, champagne and chocolates. The bridesmaids dresses were from ASOS, competitively well priced and designed. We had Polaroid cameras so everyone put a photo on a line and kept a copy. We have some amazing photographic memories.

Suppliers www.satinandsilkbridal.co.uk www.evansandwilkins.co.uk www.wyevalleycanoes.co.uk.bunkhouse www.strand-cafe.com www.centreofattention.org.uk www.billiecharity.com www.vanityweddings.co.uk www.isobelsglutenfree.com maxwalkerdj@gmail.com

| 27

Emma Haines Holistic Beauty

A Spectacular Display You have exchanged the rings, cut the cake now its time to finish off the wonderful day with a spectacular display by Wales leading Firework display company Pendragon Fireworks.

Eleri Thomas

Makeup Artist 07815 067361 e: elerithomasmakeupartist@hotmail.co.uk

Award Winning Wedding Makeup Artist Holistic Massages | Beauty Treatments | Outdoor Hottub OPI & Shellac Polishes | Spa Find Luxury Facials

www.facebook.com/EleriThomasMakeUpArtist

t: 07817 285 633 e: emhai@hotmail.co.uk

Photos by: Natalie Martin | Hair by: Kate Petersen

Bryndu Farm, Llyswen, Brecon LD3 0NF

BRIDAL HAIR

Award Winning Bridal Hair Specialists offering a Professional but Personal Service to create you Dream Wedding Hair!

A complete in Salon or Home Service custom built for the bride to be Bridesmaids & family

1 Groe Street, Builth Wells

t: 01982 553467 e: victorialynnhair@gmail.com 28 |

07815 985421 philippa@philippatorrance.co.uk www.philippatorrance.co.uk

We pride ourselves on the ability to put on a display that will have your guests in ore and wonder! Which will leave them talking about your wedding day for a long time to come.

We would like to be a part of your special day and provide you and your guests with a magical display, our packages start from as little as ÂŁ600 plus VAT for a 5 to 7 minute display. We can offer many extras to suit your budget so if you wanted to have the Bride and Grooms initials either side of a champagne bottle or a heart these can be designed for you. If you fancy the display to music this can be arranged or even a sky full of red hearts to fill the air.

Your wedding day may have a theme or special colour scheme we can incorporate this into your display please call us to discuss your requirements. Your hotel or venue may require low noise fireworks these are also available, and we have a wide selection that we have sourced from around the world.

Unit 14, Springvale Industrial Estate, Cwmbran, Torfaen, NP44 5AZ t: 01633 482626 / 07949 179987 e: pen.dragon@btconnect.com www.pendragonfireworks.co.uk

The Flower Shop Flowers for your dream day

All our crew members are trained to the BPA firers level and we are the only member of the BPA in Wales. As well as insurance of 10 million pounds we pride ourselves on our safety record, so you can be assured of a safe display as well as a memorable one for years to come.

Please check out all our displays on you tube just type in Pendragon wedding displays and you can

@philippatorrancebridalhair

view many of the displays we offer.

@philippatorrancebridalhair

Thanks for reading and we look forward to speaking with you soon.

www.toptierwedding.co.uk

Premier Display Company

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Telephone: 01495 305493

13 Market Street | Ebbw Vale | Gwent Find us on Facebook

| 29

Angharad and Alex

Fab Idea The Proposal In December 2016 we organised a trip to Iceland, unknown to me what Alex had in store! Alex had planned on proposing to me on our trip to see the Northern Lights but that didn’t go to plan unfortunately as they didn’t come out! The following day he tried again with success at the Blue Lagoon where he took me to a quiet area away from everyone on some rocks. Where of course I said Yes. Venue We chose St Mary’s Church in Builth Wells to hold the service as it’s where I had always imagined I would get married, as it’s where my parents got married. We held our wedding reception at The Lake Country House Hotel & Spa in Llangammarch Wells. Which is a short drive from Builth and set in stunning surroundings. The guests were greeted with 30 | Real Wedding

Prosecco and bottles of Corona. We had a traditional sit down three course meal which included Beef Wellington and Salted Caramel Cheesecake which was absolutely amazing.

All the guests commented on how great the food was. Then in the evening we had fish & chips in cute little boxes with a side of curry sauce and mushy peas. They went down a storm! The service that we received from the Lake was amazing, along with the stunning surroundings and relaxed atmosphere we couldn’t have picked a better location or venue.

Theme Our theme was bling and more bling, which is where I get my nickname the “magpie” from which of course was mentioned in the wedding speeches by the best men! The colour theme was rose gold, blush pink and www.toptierwedding.co.uk

silver. After meeting with Karen from Big Bossy brides and discussing my bling ideas. Karen decorated the church and venue for us. She did a fantastic job and It was exactly how I imaged it would be and more!

Talking Point My dress and Veil were a big talking point due to the size! Our wedding cake was a stunning 4 tier rose gold bling cake which is very me! Alex had other ideas however and wanted to get Manchester United somehow incorporated. So down the back of the cake Penny incorporated the Man United logo onto each tier! Penny from Top Tier Cakes By Penny did such a great job of the cake and fulfilled all our requirements. At the venue the cake sat on a dresser with a mirror behind which really showed off the cake from all angles in Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

all it’s glory.

For wedding favours we decided on everyone having an individually boxed Krispy Kreme doughnut. As I’m a big doughnut fan this was one of the first things that I actually decided on before anything else and they went down a treat with everyone as you would expect!

Best Buy Our best buy was our photographers Marta and Artur of Marta May photography they were worth every penny. I think this is one of the most important decisions that we made as their light hearted, fun and natural approach have resulted in the most amazing pictures and at no point during our day did we feel pressurised into getting the “right shots” or being constantly dragged away from our family and friends. |31

Flowers by Becca Jane

Unique Finishing Touches

Event & table decor available to hire complimented by beautiful floristry

Photo by Sacha Miller

Karon: 07854 950478 Catherine: 07813 083392 www.UniqueFinishingTouches.co.uk info@UniqueFinishingTouches.co.uk

Photo by Sacha Miller

We are an Award Winning Wedding Florist so let us design your flowers with you, the way you want them. We can go free and wild or neat and classic depending on your taste. We create everything from large installations such as flower arches and suspended flowers, right down to the smallest buttonhole. We aim to create beautiful flowers as unique as you are for your special day. It all begins with an easy-going consultation or phone call and we can go from there!!

Contact Louise 01550938070/07827763331

• Venue Decorators • Qualified Balloon Artists • Florists • Wedding & Occasion Specialists • Party & Cake Decorating Supplies

entre of Attention

49 High Street, Brecon, Powys, LD3 7AP

01874 622220 www.flowersbybj.co.uk 32 |

Telephone: 01874 623 233 Mobile: 07966 766843 or 07974 751927 Email: centreofattention@hotmail.co.uk www.centreofattention.org.uk www.toptierwedding.co.uk

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| 33

Sophie and Geth

We Love

The Proposal We went for a walk with the dogs from Tarr Steps and up the river Barle. We had stopped at a clearing on the way back down the river and were throwing sticks for the dogs to retrieve. I was preoccupied with the dogs when I realised that Geth had disappeared behind me, I turned around to be met by Geth on one knee with a ring where he proposed.

Outfits I bought my dress from Abbi Chapel. A beautiful little boutique near Wellington on the outskirts of Taunton. It was an excellent experience and they were fantastic to deal with from start to finish. I went in with an idea of what I wanted. Cheryl and Lucinda having expert eyes worked with my ideas and found the perfect dress for me. This was a gorgeous strapless, full length, mermaid, with lace design and pearl under lining that I topped off with a back to front jacket.

We hired suits from Astaires in Taunton. Geth had chosen the suit he wanted before we started looking. Blue morning suit with tweed waistcoat 34 | Real Wedding

and a cravat. A small gentleman’s outfitters in Taunton was the best price and the best service.

We were very well looked after and nothing seemed too much hassle for them.

Venue We were married in a small local church and had a marquee reception on my family farm Luckyard Farm. This was a perfect setting in the field, taking advantage of views across Exmoor and the farm has 5 holiday cottages that were perfect for our guests. We used Stewart Ford Marquees for the marquee and he organised the chiller trailer for the food too.

Theme We didn’t really have a theme to begin with. We knew it was going to be rustic and we began by cutting rings from a fallen tree to use as a base for something. We added Antlers with the help of my brother (Phil’s Fabrications). We called on Cath, who runs Centre of Attention in Brecon with business partner Hannah to provide the flowers as this was a florist in Geth’s hometown and we wanted to use something from Wales. www.toptierwedding.co.uk

They were excellent from start to finish to create all of the flowers from pictures and our ideas and had great ideas to help us build the final arrangements. We also hired seat sashes and other decorations from them.

Phil Stephens - Facebook @philsfabrications Talking Point Making our own decorations and decorating the venue made our day very much our own. The flowers were everything we could have hoped for and more, credit to Centre of Attention for all their hard work. The food and the cake were down to my mum, Hilary, and her helpers. We had canapés on arrival at the marquee, followed by our idea of a perfect summer’s dinner. Being a selection of cold meats, quiche, pastas, salads, chutneys and finished off with a selection of six puddings. Everything was served to the tables and guests could help themselves to as much as they wished. Everybody commented on how enjoyable it was to dig into the many different options available and especially the puddings.

The cake was three tiers with fruit top and base Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

and a Battenberg middle layer (for Geth). All of which was made, iced and beautifully decorated

by Hilary herself.

Between all of this the star of the show was my cousin Laura, who having done all of the girl’s hair turned her hand to singing “We Pledge to One Another” in the church for us – she definitely stole the ceremony and there wasn’t a dry eye in the church.

Suppliers Dress - www.abbichapel.co.uk Menswear - www.astaires.co.uk Venue - www.luckyardfarm.co.uk Marquee - www.mineheadmarquees.co.uk Decorations and Flowers www.centreofattention.org.uk Photographer www.ianwarephotography.zenfolio.com Cake & Food – Hilary O’Keife.

Hairdresser - Laura Stephens - Comers Taunton Makeup – www.eyedomakeup.co.uk |35

Make your Wedding

Unforgettable!

Big Bossy Brides Wedding & Events Styling t: 07469708671 e: karenbigboss@aol.com

36 |

www.toptierwedding.co.uk

Dream Day

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| 37

Bride Loved

Abi and Mike The Proposal Mike had a big surprise planned at our favourite restaurant, I didn’t know but I knew we were going out. I got in the shower to get ready but got out faster than he thought I would. He was looking at the ring, getting everything ready in the room and then BAM, there I was! He panicked and proposed right there, him all dressed up and me in a dressing-gown and slippers. I wouldn’t have had it any other way though!

Outfits As soon as I knew we were planning a Christmas wedding I wanted to try on a red dress. My mum and I went to Do You Believe in Newport and tried on some white/ivory but I’m far too pale and everything washed me out. I asked if they had any red dresses and they only had 2 dresses in stock. When I tried on my dress my mum started crying and I knew it was the one! Suits were from Dyfed Menswear with ties to match the dress colours.

38 | Real Wedding

Venue We got married at The Glen-Yr-Afon House Hotel in Usk. We got the Christmas package but also added in some special extras like fireworks in the evening. The hotel was beautiful, and decorated perfectly. All the hotel staff were amazing, and Carol the wedding co-ordinator was an absolute angel. The hotel looked like a fairytale, and they accommodated our every request. We went there last year for Christmas Afternoon Tea and knew straight away it would be our place. It was stunning with all the Christmas decorations.

Theme Our theme was Christmas! The hotel was decorated with Christmas trees, wreaths and lights. It was so beautiful. My dress was red, our bridesmaids were in gold and we had snowfetti instead of petals which was so much fun and made a great photo. As part of our package with the hotel we had a visit from Santa, which the children (and me) absolutely loved, it made the day extra special. We also had little touches www.toptierwedding.co.uk

like winter pimms and mince pies as our drinks reception which went down a treat.

Talking Point This is so hard! We had so many surprises so it depends who you spoke to. Initially it was definitely my dress, and then everyone was amazed by the Santa visit for the children. The fireworks in the evening were a huge talking point for everyone but I think the main thing everyone was talking about through the day was how beautiful the wedding and the hotel was. How festive the atmosphere was, the decorations, the wedding breakfast and how the staff were doing everything they could to make sure everyone was having a great time.

Best Buy We disagree on this one. Mike says our violinist, Hollie Chapman who we hired for the ceremony, and the drinks reception. She was amazing and played beautifully, everyone commented on what an unusual touch it was. We sent her a long Please mention Top Tier when contacting advertisers

list of songs and Hollie could play everything we wanted, it was so special. I would say our magician however. I went to a last-minute wedding fayre and decided to book Stuart Watkins. I’m not a huge fan of card tricks/table magic but he absolutely blew us away. Everyone commented on how amazed they were and how funny he was!

Our Wonderful Suppliers Hotel – Glen Yr Afon Chair Covers – Welsh Chair Cover Co Make Up/Hair – Sara Szpak Dress – Do You Believe Newport Suits – Dyfed Menswear Photographer – Anderson Photography Violinist – Hollie Chapman Magician – Stuart Watkins Florist – Best Buds by Samara Cake – Bryn Awel Creative Cakes | 39

Step Ahead

Top Tier Wedding Fair’s A warm welcome awaits you and your wedding party, where you will be greeted with a goody bag and then left to enjoy meeting and chatting to the finest wedding industry experts. We have a selection of suppliers suiting all budgets all under one roof. Catwalk shows will be on at all our events for you to see the latest styles and trends first hand.

All our fairs are free entry so you can bring along as many of your bridal party as you like!

Please see our Facebook page: www.facebook. com/toptierguide/ for the latest dates and events.

Are you a wedding supplier looking to showcase your work or service? If you offer a reliable and high standard service then please get in touch. Our stands are competitively priced for suppliers and we look to showcase a variety of suppliers at each fair for all couples.

40 | Top Tier Fairs

Our next event will be held at Tall John’s House, Llangasty Tal-y-llyn, Brecon LD3 7PX in the recently developed, beautiful stone barn in the grounds. This space is an ideal blank canvas venue - to style as you wish. This event will be on Sunday 3rd March, 11am - 3pm.

Top Tier will be holding one of Mid Wales largest wedding fairs again later in the year on Sunday 6th October, 11am - 3pm at The Members Centre on The Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd, Builth Wells.

Bookings are now be taken for suppliers so please contact Charlotte on: 01982 554 606.

More fair dates to follow on our Facebook and website.

A BIG Thank You to Cat Beardsley photography for these stunning pics. www. catbeardsleyphotography.co.uk www.toptierwedding.co.uk

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Notes

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Chair Covers | Sashes | Table Linen Centrepieces | Event Decor Hire in Wales t. 01495 305471 m. 07896697458 e. info@welshchaircover.co.uk www.welshchaircover.co.uk

Showroom: Hen Ty Bach | The Rise | Beaufort Ebbw Vale | Blaenau Gwent | NP23 5JY Published by Smart Cookie Design