The Rock's guide to the perfect wedding in guernsey

HOW TO PLAN THE PERFEC T GUERNSEY

WEDDING In association with The Rock Magazine

PRINTED IN GUERNSEY BY HERALD PRINT & PUBLISHING

INSIDE: SHE’S THE ONE: Vera Wang bridal

DIAMOND DAYS: Marion and Doug’s secret to happy marriage

MY BEAUTIFUL DAY: Wedding beauty diary

THI S I S A F R E E M AG A Z I N E

FACEBOOK.COM/THE RO C K M AG A Z I N E

EDITOR: JILL CHADWICK PHOTOGRAPHER: STACEY UPSON PRINTING: HERALD PRINT & PUBLISHING ADVERTISING: JONATHAN O’CONNOR PUBLISHER: JON TAYLOR

Conditions The Rock is published by Herald Print & Publishing, Braye Road, St Sampsons, Guernsey GY2 4WX. All rights reserved. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited. The Rock Magazine contains editorial content from external contributors which does not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers.

The Rock Magazine does not accept or respond to unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. The publishers do not accept responsibility for errors in advertisements or third party offers.

WIN A £300

WEDDING

CAKE

Welcome Your wedding day is possibly one of the most important and memorable events in your life so for most bride and bride grooms the pressure is on to get it right!

From choosing the all-important bridal gowns and bridesmaids dresses, to choosing the venue – and everything else in between, organising a wedding can bring its stresses and strains.

So, we at The Rock have decided to do the ground work to smooth the way for you in a one stop shop beautifully designed and presented publication showcasing everything the happy couple need to make their day run smoothly.

You will find a selection of the island’s top wedding venues, beautiful jewellery to add those final touches to any bridal outfit, as well fantastic floral displays and wedding favour options.

The guide also features wedding photographers and videographers who can capture your day and give you images to take down the years.

We also we give you hints on wedding gifts and the places to shop

for presents should you need a bit of a hand to find the perfect present..

Look out too for luxury lingerie and pampering regimes to ensure the bride is looking her beautiful best on the day. Every bride needs a bridal beauty countdown and we have come up with an easy step by step beauty diary to ensure that the bride looks stunning on the day.

So with all bases covered, balloons and banners at the ready, the wedding feast on the table and champagne on ice, its up to you to have fun and enjoy your day.

This is our first wedding guide and is designed for you to keep If you are about to get married – or have high hopes of saying I do some time soon!

Jill Chadwick Editor

2014 WEDDING SHOW takes place at The Venue, Fort Road on Sunday 18th May. See inside for further information.

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“A truly magical place”

...is how some couples describe The Farmhouse on their wedding day.

Our wedding packages include exclusive use of The Courtyard and adjoining Garden Bar, a selection of canapés on arrival and a three course Wedding Breakfast followed by tea, coffee and petit fours, half a bottle of wine per person (chosen from our selection), still and sparkling mineral water, a glass of Taittinger Réserve Champagne for the toast, and not forgetting a complimentary Junior Suite for the bride and groom on their wedding night.

We also offer complimentary menu and wine tasting for 4 people prior to your wedding. Prices start from £6750 for up to 75 guests. (Additional guests charged at £79 per person.) Bespoke packages are available for smaller weddings held in our private rooms or gazebos.

Our Wedding Coordinator will work with you right from the start to help plan everything down to the finest detail, so the only surprises are in the best man’s speech.

T: +44 (0)1481 264181 W: www.thefarmhouse.gg E: events@thefarmhouse.gg All details, offers and prices are subject to availability and can be withdrawn without prior notice. T&Cs apply.

Weddings booked Monday – Friday will receive 10% discount off the package price when you quote ‘THE ROCK’

Competition

WIN A ÂŁ300

WEDDING

CAKE

Simply tell us three words that best describe your perfect wedding cake. Award winning pastry chef Mark Snelling will choose a winner at the 2014 Wedding show taking place at The Venue (Fort Road)on May 18th.

Email your answers to editor@welovetherock.com

by May 12th for your chance to win.

Your wedding cake is the centre piece of any bridal celebrtion so make sure yours stands out from the crowd by entering our competition to win a a stunning ÂŁ300 wedding cake designed for you personally by an awardwinning Pastry Chef.

Terms and conditions: Prize valid for 12 months from draw date. Cake serves a maximum of 60 people, judges decision final, no cash alternative.

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Wedding Beauty

with The Day Salon

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My beautiful day Getting married can bring many stresses and, as a bride, there are some you can avoid and others you cannot. Looking good is a wedding day must and this is the day when you have to look your beautiful best. Racheal Day and her staff at The Day Salon have devised the ultimate bridal beauty countdown to ensure you look and feel sensational.

THE ULTIMATE BEAUTY COUNTDOWN TO YOUR WEDDING Six months to g o Have a personal consultation with a beauty therapist to decide which treatments you would like to have to prepare you for your wedding.

Start by having a monthly facial and monthly manicure. Get yourself a regular skincare routine started if you’re not already following one.

Now would be the time to start a course of treatments if you choose to have them such as: • Microdermabrasion treatments - Crystal Clear • Non-surgical face lifting treatments - CACI • Body wrap Treatments - Universal Contour Wrap Crystal Clear’s Microderrmabrasion treatment

Three months to go Now’s the time to experiment with colours and looks, do any research and prepare the groundwork for your final bridal look.

Start looking through magazines for make-up ideas that you like.

If you’re doing your own make-up start practicing and

experimenting now or have a practice session with a beauty therapist. Place a pale coloured towel around your neck when practicing so you can see what the make-up will look like against a pale background. (if your dress is white or cream) Apply sun block daily to avoid strap marks If you’re thinking about having false eyelashes on your day now’s the time to try them.

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THE ULTIMATE BEAUTY COUNTDOWN TO YOUR WEDDING Start shaping up

Two months to go

If you’re planning to detox, start now – it can give you spots thanks to all those toxins coming out. Drink lots of water - ideally, drinking six to eight glasses of mineral water a day will help clear your skin and make your eyes and hair shine like never before. Try replacing your usual coffees and fizzy drinks with water and you’ll see the difference in no time. Eat healthily – too much dieting can make you look gaunt in your wedding photos, but a healthy eating regime will help you look your best. Have a varied diet, rich in anti-oxidant giving fruits and vegetables to help repair cell damage and reduce inflammation. These can be found in the most deeply or brightly coloured fruits and veg such as spinach, carrots, red bell peppers and tomatoes.

• Try a fake tan treatment if you are wanting to appear tanned on your wedding day. XenTan Treatments can offer different shades of tan from a golden glow to a deep bronze • Exfoliate your body once a week with a luxurious body scrub.

Skin brushing will stimulate your lymph glands to break down

toxins and get your body glowing.

Try Clarins Smoothing Body Scrub, Elemis Lime and Ginger Salt Glow, • Stress makes some people prone to cold sores – keep your lips pout-perfect and protect yourself from cold sores with lip balm and an SPF15 lipstick.

One months to go Check the weather. Your makeup may not look as good as it did in the different weather of a few months ago, so try out your look once more.

Don’t drink too much if you’re starting to feel nervous as alcohol is terrible for your skin.

If budget allows, treat yourself to a few days at a health spa. Expert advice, beauty therapies and exercise facilities will help you come away feeling great. It’s quite common to incorporate this into your hen do and have an indulgent weekend with your girlfriends.

One /Two weeks t o g o Two weeks to go.... and have one last facial – as with any detoxification process, spots can emerge, so don’t have a facial too near to your big day.

One week to go... False Eyelashes or Eyelash Lifting (Yumi Lashes or 3D Lshes) Eyelash tinting – a great alternative to

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mascara. Eyebrow shaping – there’s a load of different ways to do this, including threading, tweezing or waxing. Find out what suits you best Waxing – if you’re on the beach for a couple of weeks for your honeymoon, long-lasting hair removal is a must.

Legs, underarms and bikini line all need tackling.

Pedicure – smooth feet look better in those delicate open-toe wedding shoes and on the beach. A Gelish or Shellac pedicure will last all the way through your honeymoon.

The day before Have a massage for relaxation and a manicure.

Gelish or Shellac will last longer than nail varnish and will dry instantly!

Check your eyebrows – do you need any lastminute plucking?

Don’t wear any make-up so that you can let your skin breathe and only one glass of champagne an early night please so you can wake up fresh bright and ready for that big day!.

To arrange your Beautiful Day beauty countdown call The Day Salon on 727191 or pop into the salon in Collings Road.

a Day to remember Enjoy the excitement of planning your wedding and meet the team at The Day Salon.

Amelia Anderson Head Beauty Therapist

Angela Watson – Part Time Beauty Therapist

Amelia has worked at The Day Salon for 5 years and enjoys her role as the head therapist at The Day Salon as each day offers her a variety of roles.

Her favourite treatments are Gelish, 3D lashes, threading and facials. She has completed advanced training in 3D Lashes and is trained to masterclass level. Her favourite product is the Elemis exotic frangipani shower cream. Out of hours Amelia loves to cook and buy handbags!

Angela has worked at the salon for 3 years but has been a trained therapist for nine years.

She enjoys applying 3D lashes and her favourite products are Clarins Lotus face oil, Elemis SOS & Elemis Frangipani monoi body oil.

After work Angela says she loves spending quality time with her family and enjoys hair and beauty.

Victoria Henderson Senior Beauty Therapist Victoria is an experienced therapist having trained in Guernsey before working as a spa manager and a therapist on cruise ships and on a private super yacht. Victoria returned to Guernsey to settle down. Interestingly, she was one of the first beauty students at the College of Further Education. Victoria specialises in Brazilian and Hollywood waxing and massage. Her favourite treatments are facials and massages. She is keen on fitness and loves to swim and cook in her spare time.

Emma Saunders Junior Beauty Therapist Emma is currently working towards achieving City and Guilds NVQ Level 3 in Beauty Therapy having qualified in NVQ Level 2 Last year.

Her favourite treatments are facials and she is an expert in the Yumi lash treatments!

Her favourite product is the Clarins Gentle Exfoliating Brightening Toner!

In her spare time she goes to Zumba and enjoys a good book!

Lily Misselke – Junior Beauty Therapist Lily is working towards her NVQ Level 2 in Beauty Therapy at The College of FE. Her favourite treatments are lash extensions, waxing and manicures.

Her favourite product is Clarins One Step Exfoliating Cleanser In her spare time Lily likes trampolining and shopping. She is in the Sarnia Trampoline club.

Racheal Day -

Managing Director of The Day Salon Racheal has worked in the beauty industry for 28 years! She is passionate about passing on her skills and holds a Certificate in Education.

Having trained in the UK she then moved to Guernsey in 1994 where she worked in then managed a local Spa for seven years followed by seven years at The College of FE both setting up and managing the Beauty Therapy Course..Racheal doesn’t have much time for hobbies, she just enjoys spending her spare time with her husband and son Louis and sourcing exciting new treatments for the salon.

Racheal specialises in electrolysis, and

anti-ageing facial treatments.

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Victoria Henderson

Angela Watson

Emma Saunders

Amelia Anderson

Lily Misselke

Racheal Day

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a Day to remember... by the blushing bride

“I used the Day Salon for all my treatments in the run-up to my big day, but obviously my wedding make-up was particularly important to me. I knew I wanted to look fairly natural and Emma got it just right - I looked like me but much better! Having the trials beforehand meant I was really confident that it was going to go well on the day, and the fact the girls came to my house to see me and my bridesmaids meant the whole experience was really relaxing and enjoyable. I’d highly recommend the Day Salon - I just wish they could do my make-up every day!”

We are delighted to announce that The Day Salon has been awarded Clarins Gold Salon status. Not only are we one of 80 salons across the country to be selected, we are the only one in the Channel Islands.

Clarins Gold Salons represent a partnership of excellence and recognises

“an exemplary level of Clarins service... which means when and youAmelia bookatan with a–Clarins Gold ‘Racheal theappointment Day Salon were amazing they Salon you canme befeel sure thaton you receive the highest really made fantastic my will special day. They worked with to get the look that I wanted.

The Clarins standard ofme Clarins service and treatment in one of the Make-Up was fantastic andprivately The Day Salon had a really widesalons.” country’s leading owned beauty range to choose from.

So why not book your appointment now and enjoy a first class Clarins treatment at The Day Salon. We also stock Clarins face,Ryson body, suncare and Rachael mens products, as well as Clarins perfume and make-up, all at tax free prices.

Tamara Timothy

Call us on 01481 727191 to book your Clarins treatment – Collings Road, St Peter Po

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We are proud to offer a superb range of products and services, some of which are exclusive to our salon in Guernsey. We also offer a unique loyalty scheme to reward repeat customers and gift vouchers for loved ones.

To find out more about us or our price list why not give us a call.

Our pampering and beauty treatments include: • Bamboo massage

• Electrolysis

• Pregnancy treatments

• CACI Ultimate non surgical facial treatments

• Elemis face and body

• Pure Fiji face and body

• Eyelash extensions

• Shellac nails

• Chrysalis Universal Contour Wrap

• Eyelash lifting and tinting

• Slimming and detoxing treatments

• Clarins face and body

• Fake tanning treatments

• Spa Ritual hands and feet

• Clarins make-up

• Gelish nails

• Threading

• Crystal Clear micodermabrasion

• Hot stone massage

• Crystal Clear oxygen treatments

• Indian head massage

• Waxing – including Hollywood and Brazilian

• Hopi ear candling

• Lava shell massage

• Yumi Lashes

We stock products and ranges from: • AH Francis • CACI

• Clarins • Crystal Clear

• Elemis • Eve Taylor

• Pure Fiji • Spa Ritual

• Tend Skin • Xen-Tan

Call us on 01481 727191 to book your treatment – Collings Road, St Peter Port, GY1 1FJ To receive information on promotions, new products and last minute offers like our Facebook page: facebook.com/TheDaySalon or sign up for our e-newsletter.

We are delighted to announce that The Day Salon has been awarded Clarins Gold Salon status. Not only are we one of 80 salons across the country to be selected, we are the only one in the Channel Islands.

Clarins Gold Salons represent a partnership of excellence and recognises

“an exemplary level of Clarins service... which means when you book an appointment with a Clarins Gold Salon you can be sure that you will receive the highest standard of Clarins service and treatment in one of the country’s leading privately owned beauty salons.”

So why not book your appointment now and enjoy a first class Clarins treatment at The Day Salon. We also stock Clarins face, body, suncare and mens products, as well as Clarins perfume and make-up, all at tax free prices.

Call us on 01481 727191 to book your Clarins treatment – Collings Road, St Peter Port, GY1 1FJ

The main event

THE

WEDDING SHOW

Sunday 18th May

THE VENUE

10.30am - 4.30pm

free entry

The 2014 Wedding Show is brought to you by The Venue at Fermain Valley (Fort Road). Couples and their friends or family are welcome to this comprehensive exhibition of everything you need to create the perfect wedding day.

Prosecco, Bucks Fizz or Orange Juice on arrival Live cooking demonstrations and samples of the new menus from The Venue and Fermain Valley’s two restaurants.

Win a Wedding Cake worth £300 prize draw

BLOSSOM & GREEN BONBONIERA CATHERINE BEST CURED DELICATESSAN EVENTURE COCKADOODLE GUERNSEY CANDY MARKS & SPENCERS MIKE WILKINS VIDEOGRAPHER MY-D JEWELLERY STACEY UPSON PHOTOGRAPHY SUECO OUTSIDE CATERING THE DAY SALON WEDDING BELLS BRIDALWEAR AND MANY MORE

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Wedding Venue with the The Venue at Fermain Valley

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2015 wedding packages

The perfect venue Arranging your special day is an exciting time and once a date has been chosen, you may feel overwhelmed with the choices available to you.

If stunning scenery, a venue with a view, a friendly team here to help and an abundance of beautiful bedrooms to choose from (at preferential rates) are what you’ve been looking for, then consider The Venue at Fermain Valley.

For a small and intimate wedding celebration, (84 guests seated or 120 for a stand up buffet) The Venue at Fermain Valley is in a stunning location.

Situated on Fort Road, St Martins and benefiting from spacious parking, The Venue has breathtaking views of the islands from its rear balcony and overlooks the naturally beautiful landscape of the award-winning gardens and valley leading to Fermain Bay. Three different wedding packages are offered to bride and grooms: Silver, Gold and Platinum which can be enjoyed as detailed in the brochures or act as the starting point for a celebration fine-tuned to your taste.

The hotel has dedicated event co-ordinators who are on hand to give you advice and guidance throughout the planning of your special day. With an array of nominated local suppliers, The Venue Events Team are able to assist with flowers, gifts and special menus to party accessories and entertainment. The Venue, its gardens and Fermain Bay offer a picture perfect background for memorable wedding photographs.

Please contact Events Co-ordinator, Rebecca Cridland-Moore on 213281 or email events@fermainvalley.com for further package details and your requirements.

Silver Wedding Package at £60.00 per person (minimum 40 guests) includes: • • • • • • • • • •

Glass of Pimms on arrival Selection of canapés on arrival, 3 per person Silver wedding breakfast 3 course menu Glass of sparkling wine for toasts Still and sparkling mineral water Half bottle of house wine for per person Silver room for the bride and groom, rose petal turndown and full English breakfast Complimentary Bed and Breakfast on first anniversary Room hire Preferential room rates for guests

Gold Wedding Package at £70.00 per person (minimum 40 guests) includes: • •

• • • • • • • •

Glass of sparkling wine on arrival Selection of canapés on arrival, 4 per person Gold wedding breakfast 4 course menu Glass of sparkling wine for toasts Still and sparkling mineral water Half bottle of house wine per person Gold room for the bride and groom, rose petal turndown, a bottle of Champagne and full English breakfast Complimentary Bed and Breakfast on first anniversary Room Hire Preferential room rates for guests

Platinum Wedding Package at £80.00 per person (minimum 40 guests) includes: • • • • • • • • • •

Glass of Champagne on arrival Selection of canapés on arrival, 5 per person Platinum wedding breakfast 5 course menu Glass of Champagne for toasts Still and sparkling mineral water Half bottle of specially selected wine for each guest Platinum room for the bride and groom, rose petal turndown, a bottle of Champagne, handmade chocolates and full English breakfast Complimentary Bed and Breakfast on first anniversary Room Hire Preferential room rates for guests

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The place to stay

with the Fermain Valley Hotel

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Fermain attraction Nestled in a pretty valley just five minutes from town, the ideal location for your wedding guests is closer than you might think.

The 4 star Fermain Valley Hotel has 32 beautifully furnished bedrooms with most boasting jaw-dropping sea views. Its two restaurants offer a variety of delicious food from locally caught seafood to dishes adorned with the very best natural trimmings that the valley has to offer.

The Venue at Fermain Valley is just a short walk through the award-winning gardens and hosts another 11 individually styled bedrooms, perfect for wedding guests wishing to carry on the celebrations with their family. If you choose one of the three wedding packages available or would prefer a bespoke package tailored to you, The Venue will be yours exclusively for the day. Benefiting from spacious parking, a professional kitchen on-site and a gorgeous view from both the stylish terrace and the outdoor lawn area, enjoy seamless service on a day dedicated to you.

The natural setting of the Fermain Valley lends itself to leisurely lunches on the terrace whilst soaking up the scenery or enjoying afternoon tea in one of the two cosy lounges overlooking the valley. Upon arrival to the hotel, enjoy a friendly welcome from the close-knit team and General Manager, Robert Steen who are happy to help with any request you may have. Both the events team and the hotel staff work together closely to ensure a couple’s special day is flawless.

In the days leading up to the ceremony, the hotel is perfectly placed for exploring the lush Fermain valley, Fermain Bay itself and if shopping and exploring St Peter Port is on the cards, the hotel’s courtesy bus is available for transfers.

For more information on the hotel, available options and to arrange a tour of the grounds, please contact Events Co-ordinator, Rebecca Cridland-Moore on 213281 or email events@fermainvalley.com

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Lovingly restored from a 15th century farm, The Farmhouse is a family-owned boutique hotel and restaurant that has had a stunning top-to-toe makeover which has left no stone unturned, yet retained all the natural charm and warmth of the original building

Welcome to The Farmhouse, a venue with a rare and wonderful mix of qualities – country house character blended seamlessly with the highest standards of contemporary design.

Hidden away in the picturesque St Saviour’s countryside, our extensive grounds provide the perfect backdrop for such a wonderful occasion, whilst our stylish interiors have been designed to cater for anything from an intimate gathering to a celebration with up to 160 guests. The Courtyard and adjoining Garden Bar are large, light and airy, opening out onto the poolside terrace for al fresco aperitifs overlooking the mature gardens. The Beehive and Hornet’s Nest provide a choice of smaller private dining rooms, as well as our restaurant and garden gazebos which can also be reserved for your wedding breakfast.

Food is at the heart of The Farmhouse.

We combine British and European cuisine with the odd dish from further afield to create diverse and imaginative menus that incorporate local, organic and fairtrade products wherever and whenever possible. Our aim is to cater for all palates, from fine dining to something a little less formal. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, interesting wines and professional yet friendly service, providing the personal touches that will make your celebrations truly unforgettable.

Our 14 luxurious bedrooms and suites have been fitted to the highest 4 star specifications, complete with natural prints, oak beams, sumptuous soft furnishings, lavish bathrooms and all the modern amenities you could wish for.

Weddings can be booked at any time of year, so whether you favour the warm summer months or would prefer a beautiful winter wedding with candle lit gardens, we will be here to help you realise your dream day. The Farmhouse is one of the finest wedding venues in the Channel Islands. You couldn’t be in better hands.

Photo courtesy of Creative Photography

Friends of The Farmhouse T: +44 (0)1481 264181

W: thefarmhouse.gg

Sign up online and receive our e-newsletters with exclusive offers and events.

E: enquiries@thefarmhouse.gg

/FarmhouseHotel

21 @TheFarmhouseGsy

“While you’re making your promises, we’ll be delivering ours.”

Cobo Bay Hotel is one of the highest-rated 3-star hotels in Britain, with an award-winning restaurant that continually wins recognition for the quality of its food and service, including two AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, an accolade achieved by very few restaurants on the island.

www.cobobayhotel.com

to arrange your perfect wedding or email: events@cobobayhotel.com

Bay of plenty Cobo Bay Hotel has undergone a complete renovation in recent years to produce an exceptional boutique hotel, boasting an idyllic setting along the scenic west coast of Guernsey.

The stunning sea-views provide the perfect backdrop for al fresco aperitifs, whilst the soft white sands of Cobo Bay present a photographer’s paradise for your wedding memoirs.

F

rom your initial enquiry to the moment you step foot on our red carpet, our experienced team will be here to assist you along the way to ensure your big day exceeds all expectations. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a banquet for over 100 guests, we’re confident that our awardwinning cuisine, contemporary Function & Events Suite, luxurious accommodation and spectacular views with stunning sunsets, complemented by the personal touches and attentive service that come with a familyrun hotel, will make your wedding day a truly special occasion.

This confidence is supported by our current AA merit score of 87%, the highest ever achieved by a 3 star hotel on the island.

We are also the proud recipient of a coveted Gold Award from Visit Guernsey, whilst The Times recognised us as ‘‘Britain’s best value beach hotel” in 2012.

We promise to be as flexible as possible, and offer a choice of menus to suit all tastes and budgets as well as a talented in-house florist to decorate the hotel with your favourite flowers in your chosen colour scheme.

Once the cake is cut and speeches complete, then where better to dance the night away than our stylish and sophisticated Function & Events Suite, which features a private bar, bespoke sound and lighting system and sumptuous sofas to rest worn-out feet?

When the night winds down, weary heads can make their way upstairs to one of our 34 en-suite bedrooms, which offer a level of comfort and amenities normally associated with a 4 or 5 star hotel. We are happy to offer preferential overnight rates to all wedding guests, who can also enjoy our complimentary health suite and private sun terrace to relax and unwind in the lead up to the wedding.

For more information or to book the date you have in mind, please

contact us at events@ cobobayhotel.com quoting ‘The Rock’ or call 257102. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have, and arrange a convenient time to show you around the hotel before sitting down over a cup of coffee or a glass of something cold to start planning your perfect day.

She’s the one for me She is THE designer of wedding dresses. If you’re a celebrity then you probably walked up the aisle in one of her creations.

Dresses can be bought for anything between £1500 and £150,000 depending on your desire and knowledge of Ebay. In a recent interview, Vera Wang talked about her life in fashion and which celebrities she most liked working with.

The designer is the gold standard in highend bridalwear, worn by everyone from Jennifer Lopez to Chelsea Clinton. She’s also a powerhouse entrepreneur who has grown a single bridal boutique into a fashion and lifestyle empire that spans a wide range of product segments — from engagement rings to dinner plates and cosmetics.

Vera Wang was born in New York City to wealthy immigrants from Shanghai, China.

Her father was an entrepreneur who made his fortune in the pharmaceutical industry. “I think, in a way, watching him grow his company influenced me subliminally,” says Wang. Her mother, who worked as a translator at the United Nations, introduced her to fashion. “My

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mother and I went to a couture shows such as Yves Saint Laurent,” she recalls.

At an early age, Wang began figure skating and, after years of intensive competition, tried, but failed to make, the 1968 US Olympic team.

“When you fall down — which you have to [do] if you want to learn to be a skater — you pick yourself right up and start again. You don’t let anything deter you,” she notes. “Oddly enough, it’s strangely like fashion — you have a limited amount of time in which to get a point of view across.”

With her skating days behind her, Wang turned to fashion. “I thought maybe I could go to design school and my father said ‘Nope, go get a job.” The summer after her junior

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year of college, she worked at the Yves Saint Laurent boutique on New York’s Madison Avenue. “It was just fate that I met — well, waited on — Frances Patiky Stein, who was one of the two fashion directors of [American] Vogue at the time. She said, ‘Call me when you’re finished with college.’ For some reason I believed her, and for some reason I did it. I called her two years later and she totally remembered me and got me an interview!”

Wang was hired at Vogue as a rover, or temporary assistant, and quickly worked her way up the ladder, becoming one of the magazine’s youngest ever fashion editors. “I got to work with Irving Penn and Richard Avedon — it’s kind of insane really when I think back on it,” she says of the 15 years she spent at Vogue. “It gives you an education that is parallel to none. There is nothing that isn’t available to you if you believe in it and want it and defend it to your boss. You had the best hairstylists, the best makeup artists, the best new photographers, the best established photographers.”

After being turned down for the editorin-chief position, Wang left Vogue and, in 1987, joined Ralph Lauren. “I became a design director there,” Wang says.

“It was incredible to work there. The budgets and the staff… as many ideas as you could come up with, that’s what they could execute. Very few companies can do that, myself included. So it was like a candy box.”

Two years later, while planning her wedding to Arthur Becker (from whom she is now separated), Wang had an epiphany. “I was a late bride and that

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experience of metamorphosis, going from being a fashion nun to being a bride, was kind of extreme for me,” she says. “There wasn’t anything, either a retail situation or a couture [designer] that really satisfied the needs of modern women, in my opinion. I was using common sense and thinking, ‘Well, everybody doesn’t want to wear the 4-inch cap-sleeve where you can’t lift your arms and a bodice of sequined lace with a big pouf skirt and stuff around your hair dangling down. I just thought there was another vision.”

In 1990, Wang opened her own bridal boutique, Bridal House Ltd., on Madison Avenue. “Because I didn’t come from a bridal background, I think I brought fashion to [the bridal industry],” she says.

“I was fearless because I really didn’t know any better.”

Wang has since pushed the boundaries of bridalwear. “ try to bring an edginess to a traditional business,” she says. Her most recent collection, for example, blends a black and white palette, while, a year ago, her bridal gowns came in shades of red. “I take a lot of stylistic and visual and intellectual liberties with the concept of a wedding gown. Every season, I try to change it — and that demand I put on myself is enormous. It’s painful.”

The interview: How do push the bounderies of bridal fashion: “I’ve always tried to push myself technically and to push myself visually.

That’s been part of the journey. I make no secret that I don’t have a big readyto-wear business. That’s not the point of

the adventure or the trip or the learning curve. It’s very important for my own growth as a person to keep going and to keep trying and to keep experimenting. . . . Part of not having a huge collection empire to run is that I’m able to try and create something that is more personal.”

Who has been your ideal celebrity bride: “Chelsea Clinton was very much a dream bride. She is a girl that, in her own humble way, and I mean with humility, embraces fashion. She is very close to her parents and the family are extremely fun to be with. Lots of laughter on the day and Chelsea while everyone was in tears of happiness and overcome by the occasion, was calm personified. The American singer/songwriter Alicia Keys was also too cool. She was a dream to work with and was the most beautiful woman I think I have ever dressed.

So, how does Vera Wang really feel about the red carpet?

“The worst is when someone is criticised in one of my dresses. You take that very personally on behalf of the star because you feel ultimately responsible.

The red carpet is a gamble of the highest order. It’s Vegas and then some but know matter how hard I tell myself to not take it too seriously, you can’t help get wrapped up in the stress of the whole performance. Some celebrities are unbelievably hysteric about their appearance while others, such as Johnny (Depp) could wear a bin liner and no one would bat an eyelid.

You recently won a lifetime achievemnt award from your fashion peers. How did that feel?: “It’s an unimaginable honor. To be respected by

Bridal dresses from Vera Wang’s spring collection

your peers — and I don’t mean just the designers, but editors, retailers, everyone who votes — it was just overwhelming. At the same time, I want to feel deserving. That involved looking backwards at my work and my own personal journey, and hoping I haven’t disappointed myself, of all people.”

What are your favourite designers and what do you wear?

“At the top of my list would be Margiela and Rick Owens and Junya and Rei and Givenchy. . . . And Ann Demeulemeester. Always. Forever.

Mixed with Prada. Mixed with Marni.

It’s always in the mix for me.”

What makes Vera Wang wedding dresses so special: “I don’t want this to sound egotistical, but I never had any rules for bridal. I came into

fashion with no predisposed notion of what a wedding dress should be, if that makes any sense. . . . It’s all about the individual and is such a unique occasion that fashion should not burden the design.”

Are you keen on social media?: “I’m not a fanatical tweeter. I think that in this day of total access, a little bit of mystery isn’t a terrible thing. . .The journey of trying to be a designer and creator, and wear my other hats — I’m an owner, an operator, a CEO — to continue on the journey takes so much effort out of me. I love fashion, but it isn’t easy so my thoughts tend to remain my own.”

Vera Wang at Browns London 59 BROOK STREET LONDON, W1K 4HS NEAREST UNDERGROUND: BOND STREET Tel: 44 (0)20 7514 0090 Email: verawang@brownsfashion.com Mon-Sat: 11.00am-6.00pm Sunday: Closed

‘By appointment’.

There is a £25 (£30 on Saturdays) consultancy charge redeemable against the

purchase of a gown.

28 Ivanka Trump in Vera Wang.

Chelsea Clinton in Vera Wang for her 2010 wedding

Vera Wang has bridal showrooms around the world including London.

10 things every bride should know Everyone accepts that getting married can be a stressful time – but here are a few pointers to help take the strain.

Don’t stress the dress!

It’s almost like magic but all brides look stunning on their wedding day.

Most women have dreamt of the sort of gown they would choose but it is amazing how many brides actually end up choosing something entirely different from the creation they had imagined buying.

When you are faced with racks of gowns it is easy to feel overwhelmed, but most brides will tell you that the moment they saw themselves in the mirror in THE dress they knew straight away that the search was over.

But make sure you buy a gown which fits you and which flatters your colouring. Off white and cream gowns tend to flatter both blondes and brunettes.

Most brides will lose a little weight in the run up to the wedding, but it is best to buy a gown that fits you at the time of purchase, rather than one you have to be pushed and poured into. If you do need a few alterations nearer to the date, this can be done quickly and

30

simply, so err on the safe side and buy sensibly.

There are also lots of bargain second hand vintage bridal buys to be had which can drastically cut down one of the most expensive bits of your wedding budget.

It’s ok to keep numbers down In these financially challenging times not every couple can afford to invite all their friends and family to their big day so don’t feel bad about cutting corners.

Making the event a child free one to cut costs, or inviting only part of a couple is quite acceptable. People who wish you well can do so ahead of the day (or after it) over a glass – so if you need to make the wedding a smaller scale one, don’t be panicked into inviting a huge extended family.

Make sure stag and hen nights happen at least a week prior to your wedding.

There are countless married couples who look back with dread on wedding photographs which show the groom looking drawn and green and the bride

furious! Equally a few grooms have had to contend with their new wife feeling unwell as the day progresses, because the bridesmaids have over done the pre wedding champagne cocktails!

So organise parties well ahead of the big day, and on your wedding morning, keep to teas and coffees and maybe just one glass of champers to calm those nerves.

Keep it simple Most couples feel that planning a wedding is like scaling a huge mountain – fraught with danger and obstacles all along the way poised to catch you out.

But once you have chosen the date, decided upon where the ceremony will happen and what sort of wedding party you fancy that comes within your budget – the rest should just flow!

Vintage weddings are by far the most popular at present so keep colours soft and simple and theme your tables and decorations with the colours you will find in the bridal flowers.

Summer weddings are always popular but. Autumn and winter

weddings can be fabulous candlelit affairs too.

If you are very clever, combine a wedding with Christmas and enjoy the church decked out with festive flowers and church candles. Most churches are decorated by the congregation so sneakily you can cash in on their festive creativity!

Don’t let emotions run high!

Most couple find themselves bickering and squabbling in the run up to the big

day. Try to keep calm and stay in tune – a problem shared.

Wedding planning should be fun There is no reason why you can’t have fun choosing your venue and planning the day to day details of your party together – so try to share the burden and keep talking. In the cult series Don’t tell the Bride, grooms are asked to organise the whole day – and generally get it right.

So brides take note. Too many brides take it upon themselves to go solo on the

organisation front. Sharing starts now!

You don’t have to follow tradition – in anything!

Do it yourself weddings are becoming increasingly common with friends and family helping out with cars, flowers and catering.

Most people don’t have the space or the inclination to hold a wedding reception at home – but you can always cut a few corners in other areas.

Bridal bouquets need the professional

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touch, but there is nothing to say you can’t do some DIY table decorations – substitute balloons – and pretty up some family cars with ribbons if family offer to help with transport!

A bride and bride groom who tied the knot last year made it a real team effort and guests had to bring either a bottle or a plate of wedding food or both! Family chipped in with glass bowls of flowers – designated members were asked to bring varying sizes of crystal bowls vases or jugs and fill them with pink, blue or cream roses, tulips hydrangeas and lilies! The result was stunning and cost effective!

There is no doubt that a professional photographer is worth their weight in gold for capturing those fabulous wedding day moments, but why not hand out disposable cameras to all your guests to ensure that the whole day is covered by more casual ad hoc photographs.

You can opt for a more casual ceremony by being married in the outdoors followed by a barbeque if money really is a bit tight. As long as the weather is with you, you can have a day with a difference, ask your guests to bring a bottle – and simply provide the beer, burgers and buns!

If anying goes wrong, try to laugh it off Not every wedding day will run smoothly, but try to remember that it is the silly things which go drastically wrong that will make great stories to tell your children and grandchildren in years to come.

Above all remember to enjoy yourself….the day itself will go in a flash so have fun, laugh and relax.

Vintage style is proving popular

Say “I do” in 2014 for only

£2,014

A DIAMOND OF AN OFFER!

Based on a minimum of 40 guests, our £2,014 package includes: • Services of our Wedding Co-ordinator • Exclusive use of The Venue for the day and evening reception

• 3 course Wedding Breakfast (select from 3 choices per course) • Glass of sparkling wine for the Wedding Toast

• Dance floor

• Cake stand and cake knife

• Red carpet welcome • Master of Ceremonies

• Half a bottle of house wine per person with the Wedding Breakfast

• Glass of Pimms and selection of canapés on arrival

• Preferential accommodation rates for wedding guests

• Complimentary night’s Bed and Breakfast accommodation for the Bride and Groom with rose petal turndown • Complimentary first anniversary night accommodation for the Bride and Groom.

For additional information, a show round or a copy of our wedding pack please contact our Events Team at The Venue on +44 (0)1481 213281 Or email events@fermainvalley.com Available for new 2014 bookings only. Offer only available in 2014.

The Venue, Fermain Valley, St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 1ZZ

www.fermainvalley.com

Wedding flowers with Blossom&Green

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Sowing the seeds of love Let your flowers say I do !

From pretty vintage chic to all out glamour Blossom and Green promise to make your wedding day flowers stand out from the rest with their truly unique approach to wedding floral design. Alison Lythgoe’s passion for her art shines through in all she does as The Rock discovers.

Blossom and Green is the vision of Alison Lythgoe who tells us that many brides this year are opting for the popular vintage theme.

Says Alison: “I am being asked for lots of vintage ideas and there are quite a few ways to achieve a beautiful vintage look using well known, and not so well known flowers and plants.

Both ‘rustic vintage’ and ‘pretty vintage’ are pretty popular and they do give a stunning look to enhance your wedding day..”

For Rustic – think of achieving an effortless collection of posies which look as they have been simply gathered from the hedgerows!

“I choose open blowsy roses, Ox-eye Daisies, grasses, rosemary, flowering mint, gypsophila, berries, sweet peas, cornflowers and , fennel.”

“These weddings have a wild feel to them, posies are bound with string , hessian and raffia. I make table arrangements often in small groups, using jam jars, tin cans. That are ideal for a marquee reception. I cover tables with

hessian runners, bunting, old suitcases, wine crates and incorporate milk churns filled with flowers for that final vintage look. It’s casual yet pretty and chic without being fussy”.

‘Pretty Vintage’- Slightly different but elegant, lots of glass, silver, antique accessories with lots of mink, muted roses and peonies, This is a subtle yet stunning look to enhance your wedding venue and give it that wow factor. I use hydrangeas, grey foliage, fern, grey eryngium, silk, velvet and lace, pearls.

The emphasis is on absolute luxury and understated glamour.

Table arrangements work well using a collection of small vases and silver bowls. Cut glass looks especially good and candelabras add a real touch of class.

Says Alison:”Another popular and timeless colour scheme is the use of neutral whites and greens.... you can’t really go wrong with this classic combination. It can work in relaxed country mode, elegant and classic, chic city ..... it always looks clean and fresh.”

“

‘Pretty Vintage’Slightly different but elegant, lots of glass, silver, antique accessories with lots of mink, muted roses and peonies,

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Another popular and timeless colour scheme is the use of neutral whites and greens.... you can’t really go wrong with this classic combination. It can work in relaxed country mode, elegant and classic, chic city..... it always looks clean and fresh.�

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“I’ve always been interested in interior design and renovating homes. I’m a bit of a magpie often bringing an eclectic mix together, antique shops, charity shops, flea markets in France, all bring inspiration to what I use to create my designs.

So this led to my other life time passion - creating a beautiful garden, using my favourites being tumbling blowsy roses, hydrangeas, honeysuckle, wild flowers .

I started working in the trade 7 years ago and quickly realised that this was the career for me. I felt I wanted to pursue my own direction and so started Blossom & Green in January 2013. Throughout the Spring and Summer I worked from a vinery in St. Martin where I had lots of space and a cooler. I found I was very busy throughout the wedding season mostly picking up work through word of mouth, the good old Guernsey grapevine!

The next logical step was to find a shop, after much searching for a suitable property, I settled on the lovely shop in Trinity Square which I use as a showcase for my designs which change from week to week and season to season.

I love to use my interior design and floral talents for weddings but I also offer the full florist service for funerals, corporate events and weekly arrangements, private house dressing for day to day and special occasions, plus lovely bespoke bouquets for birthdays, anniversaries, new babies or just because....

I try to buy flowers that are a bit different from the usual, I like wild flowers, herbs, scented blooms, twigs and interesting foliage.

I also like to use local seasonal flowers whenever possible and have good links with a long established grower.”

Blossom & Green Trinity Square St Peter Port Opening hours 8 - 17.45 Tel: 727509 email: blossomandgreen@gmail.com www.blossomandgreenflowers.com

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The ultimate wedding shop The wedding list with Marks&Spencer

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When you think 20 million people walk through an M&S every week in the UK, it’s no wonder that the store caters for all occasions and no more so than the big day. Call it the ultimate wedding shop, M&S has everything you need to celebrate your big day in style, from bridesmaid dresses to flowers, wedding cakes and wedding invitations. Don’t forget the lingerie - their beautiful range of bridal lingerie is made from luxurious silks and satins, so you’ll feel as good as you look. And for those who are planning a wedding list for guests then why not create your own online wish list for guests to choose a present that’s perfect for you.

Setting up a wedding list is a daunting task for all couples. It’s not easy to compile a list of a 100 to 200 gifts you would like to receive even if it’s sounds very exiting! There are different types of wedding lists according to each couple. The good thing about an M&S wish list is that compile it knowing there’s something for everyone. The M&S home department is a good place to start as wedding list will feature many items for a newlyweds new home. Traditionally, newly weds receive items to help them set up home with household items they will uses in their everyday life. Guests also like the idea of contributing to both the bride and groom’s new life needs. There is always new products you would need for your home. Whether it is kitchenware, household appliances, bedding, garden accessories, fine china, electronics, home decors you will always find an idea to make it even more welcoming and warm.

Sketch Hen Egg Cup £6, Jug £25, Mugs both £8, Bowl £9.50, Side Plate GBP 7.50

The M&S Wish List

Wish Lists are a great way for you to let others know the things you would love to own from Marks & Spencer. They also make it easy to ensure that the gift gets sent to the right place. Friends and family can look at the list and use it to purchase the perfect present for your special occasion.

To create a Wish List of your own, call into our High Street store and speak to one of our Sales Advisors on the third floor. Using a list you have created yourself or with our help choose from the selection of products in store to create your own list. Our team will then create the list for you on our website for your friends and family to either purchase online or use the information as a guide when they next call in store. Ideal if you have friends or family living in the UK or further afield. To look at the list, simply go to www. yourmarksandspencer.gg/weddings and type in the name of the bride or groom.

Visit M&S in the High Street store or log on to... www.yourmarksandspencer.gg to create your personal wish list.

We’ve come up with a few ideas to get your wish list started.

Square Slate Platter £15.00

Lace Design Platter £28.00

Ombre Bowl £28.00 Oversize Patterned Jug £62.00

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Wooden Spoons £9.50 (for 2) Pasta Server & Spatula Set £9.50 Branded champagne flute £7.50 Wine glass £7.50, cocktail glass £9.50

Cast Iron Casserole Dish £59.00 Cast Iron Shallow Casserole Dish £59.00

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£5 hrow ne T

www.yourmarksandspencer.gg

Nordic mug £5.00

Tile Patterned Frame £19.50

Brooklyn Dinner Plate £7 Brooklyn Side Plate £6 Brooklyn Cup & Saucer £8 Brooklyn Cereal Bowl £6

Nordic Dip Bowls x 4 £15.00

Nordic Espresso Cup & Saucer £6

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DEPARTURE

Wedding Venue with the Les Cotils

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Set the scenery If you are looking for a stunning place for your wedding that offers amazing views, fantastic menu choices and great personal service to ensure you have a unique bridal experience, head for Les Cotils – Guernsey’s best kept secret and the perfect place to say I do.

Les Cotils is without a doubt one of Guernsey’s best kept secrets as a wedding venue.

But with our new Rock Wedding Guide now out, so is the secret!

Les Cotils is a delightful country house, which has been newly refurbished and sits on an elevated and scenic site on the outskirts of St Peter Port.

With 12 acres of grounds and immaculately tended gardens with stunning views of the neighbouring islands this is an ideal venue for a wedding. All the main reception rooms have undergone complete refurbishment and a new bar and restaurant will be opening in May. With 27 bedrooms offering ensuite, TV and wiFis , many with stunning views for your guests Les Cotils is fully licensed and offers all couples and families a very personal service when organising the big day. The house can cater for parties of up to 120, although smaller rooms are available for more intimate functions. Drinks on the lawns overlooking the other islands gives an amazing start to any wedding reception and on a beautiful sunny day there is no better place to set up marquees and chill out for the perfect wedding experience.

Les Cotils also enjoys a reputation for being able to provide a wide range of delicious catering options and Executive chef Robert Till creates bespoke menus to cater for each wedding, enabling a very personal approach to food choices. From finger buffets, to barbeques on the lawn or a five course banqueting menu, it’s your choice.

Getting married at Les Cotils is the stress free option, with fabulous views, amazing food and the all-important attention to detail that will make your wedding one to remember for all the right reasons.

For further information, please contact Les Cotils on 01481 727793 or visit www.lescotils.com

Menu example Les Cotils also enjoys a reputation for being able to provide a wide range of delicious catering options and Executive chef Robert Till creates bespoke menus to cater for each wedding, enabling a very personal approach to food choices. From finger buffets, to barbeques on the lawn or a five course banqueting menu.

Starter Choice examples Galia Melon Crown of melon, Caribbean & Asian fru il menoge, mongo sorbel, coconut & while rum drizzle Seafood AssieHe Succulent fish & local shellfish combo, peppered lemon vinaigrette, crisp Italian leaves Potted Crab Hand picked Guernsey chancre crab in gorlic, lemon & parsley butter, watercress & cucumber salad, French crisp breads Duck and Pear Confit duck, port wine, poached pears, peppered rocket salad and creomy Roquefort blue cheese dressing Wild Mushroom and Smoked Bacon Warm fricassee of select mushrooms, garlic & smoked bacon, stilton cheese & herb crumble, toasted olive.

Main Course Choices examples Fragrant Salmon Scottish salmon supreme in light Japanese leriyoki marinade, soy, ginger & rice wine on noodle ribbons with gonk: butter & spring onions Aromatic Pork Conlil pork belly, orienlal sotoy & blossom honey crust, apple & combozolo risotto £12.75 Angus Steak Aged beef steak sirloin, cognac flamed, either Dijon, wild mushroom, Dione or peppercorn infusions £16.25 Sicilian Chicken Supreme of free-range chicken, sun dried tomatoes & buffalo mozzarella, lemon, basil & rosemary basting Dessert Choice examples Peppered Chocolate Pear Red wine poached pear, Belgian dark chocolate & moscorpone tort with block pepper £4.25 Apple Trio Caramelised brulee cream with apples & calvodos, sparkling green apple sorbet & apple crisps £4.25 Cheesecake Madagascon vanilla bean baked cheesecake, warm compote of block cherries with Jamaican spiced rum £4.75 Citrus Raspberries Tangy citrus lemon & bio yoghurt tart, creme froiche & raspberries £4.75 My Twisted Gauche Deep dish gauche melee tart, Victoria plums, apples & blackberries, clotted cream & vanilla bean anglaise

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Diamond’s are forever They recently celebrated their 60th Diamond wedding anniversary and life for Marion and Doug Scowen has never been brighter or happier. So how can love and marriage survive the decades and challenges of every day life?

M

arion and Douglas Scowen have just celebrated their Diamond Wedding anniversary and look back on a marriage which is based on mutual respect, love and the sheer enjoyment of doing things together.

“We met at Billy Hooker’s ballroom dancing school 62 years ago and just hit it off”, says Marion. The couple were engaged a year later and married the following year.

“I suppose the first thing that struck me was that he was a very good dancer,” she says.

“We have always been good friends and enjoy doing things together it’s that simple. We have two children, Katherine

who lives in Guildford and has two grown up children, and Mark who is a doctor and lives in Andover with his wife and three children. We get to see them twice a year but also like to fit in at least two Mediterranean holidays a year too – Cyprus and latterly Malta have been our favourite destinations.”

Over the years they have both enjoyed many hobbies separately, but they now enjoy walking, which they do most days, and Doug has recently taken over in the kitchen.

“My mother was a keen cook and Doug learned a lot from her when she lived with us. A year or so ago he asked if I would mind if he took over the cooking

“

I suppose the first thing that struck me was that he was a very good dancer

45

– he did not get an argument from me! He loves to cook – particularly cakes – and he has become very inventive. He loves cook books and experimenting with recipes which all the family now enjoy and encourage.”

Their wedding day was very much an intimate family affair. They were married at St James and had a reception at the Channel Hotel.

The next day Marion’s uncle Ken Gould had organised a honeymoon trip to Jersey for them.

Says Marion: “He had booked us a cabin on the ferry and sent a car to fetch us that morning. It was wonderful, and very much like him to simply sort it all out! We were very happy and grateful.

Marion and Doug both worked hard over the years but were happy when Doug finally retired from his job as a maintenance manager at the Guernsey Press.

“Doug is a keen DIY man and has always renovated our homes and we both enjoyed working in the garden, though that was probably more my domain and I loved it and still do. We moved to a smaller house after the death of my mother as we wanted a more maintenance free house with a smaller garden to free us up to travel and enjoy ourselves.”

Marion believes that marriage today is more stressful with lots of pressures on young couples but she says, the secret is to keep your friendship alive.

“He is my best friend and I enjoy spending each day with him, in fact I don’t know what I would do without him. “

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Marion believes that marriage today is much more stressful with lots of pressures on young couples but she says, the secret is to keep your friendship alive

tailored for you bespoke weddings at the bella luce

Imagine a magical storybook celebration nestled among the trees and tranquil country lanes of one of the most idyllic hideaways in Guernsey. Where no detail is left unattended and your every wish is catered for, Bella Luce

The Bella Luce is part of

Hotel, Restaurant and Spa is the ideal setting for your picturesque special day - contact us direct to discuss your specific requirements.

For for further information call 238764 or visit www.bellalucehotel.com

B R E AT H TA K I N G J E W E L L E RY T H AT T R A N S C E N D S T I M E

Hen picked If you’re planning pre-wedding celebrations, such as the all-important Hen Party, then consider The Rock Garden. A chic bar and restaurant, it benefits from an open plan layout, great for drifting from the bar with a cocktail in hand to the dining area. In the summer, the outdoor lounging area is also popular in the midst of a hazy summer or ROCKlighting.

GARDEN bathing in the atmospheric To kick start your evening out with the girls, have fun and make your favourite cocktails with one of our experienced mixologists. Take part in a cocktail masterclass and The Rock Garden will serve a complimentary drink on arrival before you learn your top three cocktails and then enjoy a delicious party menu. Plus, after your meal has finished, there is no need to worry about a lift into HEN INSPIRATION town to carry on the party, as the hotel’s courtesy Cocktail Masterclass bus is there to drop you and your friends in town.

For a wedding reception with a difference, at The Rock Garden The Rock Garden can be privately hired for your from £26 per person special celebration. The area can seat 50 sitting down for dinner or 100 people for drinks and canapés. Alternatively, hold your Wedding Breakfast in The Venue and continue celebrating into the evening at The Rock Garden.

Make it a movie night

For enquiries and bookings, please contact Rebecca on 213281 or email: events@fermainvalley.com

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For a pre-dinner celebration, watch your favourite movie in The Venue cinema, an exclusive space with a bar and lounge area.

Seating 27, the cinema is the perfect place to relax and have a few drinks before enjoying dinner in The Rock Garden. £25pp Cinema & Dinner package (minimum 15 people), alternatively hire the cinema for £200 (4 hours)

History in the making Sueco are exclusive providers of event services at Castle Cornet

Castle Cornet has been protecting Guernsey for 800 years so it is a most fitting venue for your wedding. It is an ancient Royal fortress that stands guard over the town and harbour and is a most prestigious and unforgettable venue.

Your guests can be treated in grand style in the sizeable Hatton Gallery, surrounded by a selection of art from the Museum’s extensive collection.

Located on the top floor of the Upper

Barracks (or Married Quarters), guests will arrive through the Maritime Museum, which could also remain open for the duration of the event for your guests to enjoy. The Hatton will hold 150 people for a standing reception and up to 100 for a seated dinner or presentation. Alternatively the Amhurst room, situated on the top floor of the Lower Barracks, is a multi-purpose function room featuring original beams

and rafters and can accommodate approximately 70 guests standing or 30-40 seated.

Several other areas within the Castle grounds are available for events where your guests can enjoy stunning and unrivalled views over St Peter Port and the other islands. These include the South Battery, Town Battery and Royal Battery, Well Walk and the Upper Lawn.

Sueco Outside Catering can handle all aspects of this most important occasion from start to finish so call them to arrange an appointment 720969.

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Thanks for the memories

Mike Wilkins Videography offers a professional, creative and friendly wedding video service in Guernsey.

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CREATIVE PROCESS A photograph shows a moment in time, but a video captures so much more.

Through Mike’s creative yet discreet filming techniques and carefully crafted editing, all the atmosphere and emotion will be beautifully recorded.

A wedding DVD or Blu-ray is a truly treasured keepsake.

COMMUNICATION Mike meets with you in person to understand your exact requirements, and then stays in touch in the runup to the big day to answer all your questions. This way, you will receive a fantastic keepsake of your occasion, tailored to your personal taste.

ATTENTION TO DETAIL Small details, which could be forgotten with time, will remain part of your lasting memories in years to come.

There is nothing quite like hearing your vows in top-quality audio and seeing tears of happiness in high-definition.

PROFESSIONAL Wild Coast Cotton Bedset Mike has spent almostFrom a decade £37 - £62 working for major broadcasters in the UK, Europe and the Channel Islands. He has a Masters degree, a Postgraduate degree, a City & Guilds Photography qualification and a BA (Hons).

THE BEST DAY OF YOUR LIFE It can take many months to plan your wedding, however the day itself passes by so quickly. A video of the entire event will capture those moments that even the couple may not see. So please contact Mike Wilkins Videography to help capture your special day.

For further information: E: mike@mikewilkins.com T: 07839 100 020 W: www.mikewilkins.com F: www.facebook.com/ mikewilkinsvideography @mikewilkinsvids

Forever, expressed beyond words

My-D, Ruette Braye, St Peter Port, Guernsey | T: 01481 726246 | E: my-d@beckyrowejewellery.com | www.beckyrowejewellery.com

We don’t just do balloons Bonboniera is a local family run business, in Guernsey for the last 30 years, helping organise and create the magic for a small party to a wedding or large corporate function. We work with other local companies to make your event special to you, still keeping it professional, with quality products and staff.

Book your event at any venue in Guernsey and you already have fabulous food and menus, with a view in most cases, to die for.

Theme your event to make it stand out from the rest, we can provide chair covers, sashes, lace cloths, coloured table cloths and napkins. Create place cards, have unusual favours, theme the whole table with centrepieces and flowers.

Natural seems to be the theme of 2014, with Beach, Woods, & Country Fayre being very popular.

Hire our starlight curtain which is wonderful backdrop for wedding or elegant dinner. We can have a pink or gold colour wheel, looks so pretty when twinkling behind the top table, or accenting your cake table.

How about our wonderful Candy Cart, great for entertaining both young and old, an alternative to pudding, we can theme it by colour, or celebration.

We also Hire out glassware if you want to create your own arrangements, chairs, and tables, cutlery napkin rings, in fact almost everything you would need to create a fabulous wedding or event.

Some of the best weddings are the Do It Yourself ones, however you will need help, friends family will all be willing to give you a hand, BUT you don’t want to be stressing on your wedding day, so be prepared, being organised will save you the hassle on the day.

Or..... Just get the Bonboniera Team to help, if you don’t have the time to set up the reception yourself, we can help with placing your arrangements, wedding favours, place cards and table plans or we can just set up all of your wedding! You have a choice.

Bonboniera

Tel 740 740 to make an appointment or just drop in.

Oh and we can create stunning balloon arrangements too! www.bonboniera.com

Do us a favour Wedding favors come in all shapes and sizes. There are an infinite number of items for wedding favors that couples can choose from.

The couple’s budget is a significant factor to consider when selecting wedding favors, however a resourceful and creative couple can easily find a solution to their problem as Sue Garau from Bonboniera explains.

History of wedding favors The history of wedding favors dates back several centuries ago in European countries.

People then believed that weddings were a fortunate occasion and that the giving of wedding favors by the groom and bride is a way of sharing that luck to family and friends.

Wedding favors began as a tradition of upper class families in Europe centuries ago.

French and Italian families would hand out ‘bonbonnieres’ to guests as wedding favors.

These confectionary delicacies are placed in small fancy boxes made of metal, crystal or porcelain. The boxes are also decorated with precious stones that create a precious keepsake for guests.

Later on, other social classes took on the tradition of giving wedding favors to their

guests. Almonds were popular wedding favors given by couples in the earlier days. People believed that the almonds represented longevity, happiness, wealth, health and fertility. Up to now, almonds are still common wedding favors given by couples in the form of candy-coated almonds.

Modern day wedding favors Wedding favors are now an essential part of the preparations for the wedding day.

Wedding favors can be bought or made to match the style of the couple’s wedding.

Many sensible couples opt to give out practical wedding favors that guests can use afterwards. These can either be small kitchen gadgets like salt and pepper shakers, coasters or cookie cutters, or maybe soaps and candles.

Ideas for wedding favors Couples can choose to have wedding favors that symbolize the theme of the wedding. Wedding favors can also be selected in relation to the season in which the wedding is scheduled. Christmas or winter theme, summer theme or fall theme wedding favors also makes it easier for couples to select the right giveaway for the event.

Bomboniere,

a sweet Italian story In the Italian tradition the bomboniera (or wedding favour) is a small object, a memento of the happy day but not only that.

The bomboniera is also an expression of the evolution in art and customs.

Originally in the 15th century “sweet boxes” were swapped by the engaged couple’s family as sign of good fortune.

In Italy at the end of the 18th century bomboniere began to be used as “wedding souvenirs”. At first they were made mostly with porcelain.

Today bomboniere are proposed in a wide variety of materials and colours. Most bomboniere contain five sugared almonds symbolising health, wealth, happiness, fertility and long life. Each bomboniera can be personalised by a small folded card with the bride and groom’s first names and date of the happy occasion.

The “Gift bomboniere ” are normally given by the marrying couple as a memento and as thanksgiving for the wedding gifts received. The “Tulle ciuffetti ” are normally distributed to the guests at the wedding feast. The Traditional Almonds and Tulle can either be given with a gift, a small momento of a special day, or on their own. They look gorgeous on the tables set out by each place setting, or displayed in large wicker baskets for the bride and groom to hold and distribute them from. This is a great way for the happy couple to meet all their wedding guests and have a few moments for a chat with everyone they invited.

Traditionally used in wedding favours almonds represent the “bittersweet life” of a married couple. These days Chocolate dragees, and even pot pourri have been substituted for the traditional almond.

Traditional and modern wedding favors available from Bonboniera T: 740740

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Society wedding If you’re going to have your wedding moments captured then you may as well use someone from society. Stacey Upson has been a wedding photographer for more than 10 years and is a member of the Wedding and Portrait Photographers Society.

While she makes a wedding shoot look effortless she reveals that on the day you have to think on your feet, stay sharp and enthusiastic and ensure that you capture every single precious bridal moment… A tall order, but one which she loves to deliver. The Rock met up with Stacey just ahead of yet another wedding shoot to find out how she prepares for the big day.

So how do you plan for a wedding session?

Firstly I always meet the bride and groom as often they wish to have an engagement photography session which helps build a relationship with the couple, put them at their ease and begin to build a picture of their likes and dislikes and how they see the photography happening on the day.

I will always go along to the venue and check out things like lighting – the best available and natural light, and work things from there. I also meet up with the vicar where appropriate and visit the church to see what opportunities there are for me to capture some early shots. Most churches allow photography but you are often restricted as some churches do not allow flash photography and some interiors do not lend themselves to a lot of creative shots.

I also have to be mindful of weather so it is important to have a game plan to ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the important family gathering shots.

On the actual day when does the work begin?

The night before is when it all starts.

I ensure all my kit is packed and my batteries are fully charged, I have my back up camera ready and lots of memory cards too of course.

On the morning of the wedding I turn up at the bride’s home or where she will be getting ready and I take candid shots of the bridal party popping champagne or having make up done. I like to create a

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story of how the day unfolds, the flowers arriving, the dress hung up in anticipation for the great unveiling. I then head off to the bride groom’s home and do a similar thing.

Generally the bride groom’s party is a bit more chilled out! There is obviously lots more activity surrounding the bride and the bridesmaids – it’s a great atmosphere but fun too.

So with pre wedding shots in the bag, I head off to the church to make sure I am in place for the arrival of the bride and that walk down the aisle.

What is the most challenging thing about a wedding shoot?

The hardest thing is to be able to control the group and get the shots I need, without upsetting guests who are keen to capture their own images!

But most people are in a great mood and are up for fun and letting me get on with my job.

What is the most satisfying thing of the day?

I get such a buzz when I know I have managed to create and capture that killer shot which will have pride of place on their mantel piece forever! It’s a privilege to be part of someone’s wedding day and I never take this for granted.

Do you stay with the wedding for the whole day?

Yes, from the moment the bride has her hair done to the moment that she takes her first dance as a married woman…I stay with the wedding throughout if that is what the couple wish for. Some people

are happy to just have the service, and post wedding family shots; others want a complete picture diary so I am happy to fit in with whatever the couple decide upon.

What is the current trend for post wedding shots?

Guernsey is such a beautiful place and there are so many amazing backdrops for a wedding couple. Couples do like to go somewhere which has a specific meaning for them so I can find myself on cliff tops at sunset, on the beach, the park a terrace above Town…they all make for great portrait shots, What has been your most favourite wedding moment?

I really enjoy getting positive feedback and there is nothing nicer than having family members come up and be so pleased about how the wedding shoot has run. It is my job to make sure it runs smoothly and is stress free for everyone.

Stacey Upson is a member of the Society of ‘Wedding and Portrait Photographers’ which is an internationally recognised society with worldwide recognition. She gives free consultations to couples.

Pop into her studio at 14 Le Bordage or check out Stacey Upson Photograpy on Facebook.

Email Stacey.upson@cwgsy.net or call her on 07781 461 603. ,

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From the moment the bride has her hair done to the moment that she takes her first dance as a married woman‌I stay with the wedding throughout if that is what the couple want.

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Whatever your (and his) hearts desire Cockadoodle’s new Spring Summer 2014 bridal ranges are now available prepare yourself for stunning, breathtaking lingerie that will have you wishing for a marriage proposal - if only for an excuse to wear them! From innocent ivory to flaming georgous red Cockadoodle has everything for your first night of passion as a happily married couple.

For those unfamiliar with this fantastic store, Cockadoodle is a

welcoming boutique, lingerie and adult shop in lower Mill Street stocking beautiful ladies lingerie, quirky shoes, home accessories and adult toys.

They stock a wide range of gorgeous lingerie in sizes up to a 38G including vintage, small back and petite sizes.

A full fitting service is availiable for all Cockadoodle products.

Cockadoodle stock brands such as Gossard, Maison Close, Rubyshoo, What Katie Did, Tallulah Love, Buttress

Opening hours Monday - Friday 10.30am - 5.30pm Saturday 10am - 5pm Location 11A Mill Street (next to Free Love Boutique)

Gossard bridal range spring/summer 2014

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and Snatch, Ava Corsetry, Little Minx and Lelo. Cockadoodle takes a new look at the codes of seduction by giving a contemporary look lingerie.

A taste for secrecy, refinement and pleasure are the defining points of the store and its products. For Guernsey’s high street shopping it is a revelation in our humble opinion.

The lingerie range from Maison Close oozes French chic.

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What Katie Did was founded 1999 by Katie Thomas and today is the world’s leading brand of faux vintage lingerie, specialising in recreating silver screen glamour of the ‘40s and ‘50s. Exclusively available in Guernsey through Cockadoodle.

Bridal corsets inspired by Ava Gardner designed by a Guernsey girl who created Ava Corsetry. Find out more at Cockadoodle.

It has been Buttress and Snatch’s great joy over the years to lift the bosoms and cover the behinds of many great as well as famous ladies; Madonna, Beth Ditto, Kate Moss, Christina Aguilera, Isabella Blow, Neneh Cherry, Nicola Roberts, Bond girl Eva Green as well as every kind of Show Girl.

The brand has high ideals of craftsmanship and really enjoys the process of producing what they make on a small scale – and well.

Their latest line in patchwork lingerie one offs using old English cross stich embroideries and vintage fabrics and this Red Rose set is a fantastic example of that. Exclusively available in Guernsey through Cockadoodle.

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Beautiful Lingerie Quirky Shoes Gorgeous Gifts Vintage Styles Stylish Shapewear Saucy Accessories

MILL STREET B ST PETER PORT B GUERNSEY TEL: 712912 MON - FRI 10.30am - 5.30pm B SATURDAY 10.am - 5.00pm.

The sweetest of things

Wild Coast Cotton Bedset From ÂŁ37 - ÂŁ62

Guernsey Candy create luxury, bespoke edible candy trees for all occasions.

Guernsey Candy provide luxury bespoke and truly unique edible sweet / chocolates trees for all occasions.

They also have very popular Ferrero Rocher chocolate stand.

Guernsey Candy cater for Christenings, Weddings, Baby Showers, Engagements, Birthday Parties, Corporate Events, Hen & Stag nights, Valentines, Christmas,

Halloween, and any other requests from their customers.

Guernsey Candy can be customised to your own requirements and colour schemes.

All of their Trees are made with love and to the highest standard using only top quality named brands of sweets and chocolates.

Telephone 07781 413711 E-mail: guernseycandy@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Guernseycandytrees Website www.guernseycandy.com

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Win a set of 5 medium Ferrero Rocher centre piece trees worth ÂŁ225

The winner will be able to create bespoke trees with Guernsey Candy to match the theme and colours of your special occasion.

How to enter: Simply email editor@welovetherock.com and tell us where the 2014 Guernsey Wedding Show is taking place (as featured in this wedding guide). Guernsey Candy will select a winning answer at the Wedding Show on the 18th May 2014.

T&C. Entries can also be taken on the day of the Wedding Show, 18th May 2014 at the Guernsey Candy stall, Prize is valid for 12 months from the date of the draw. No cash alternative. Judges decision is final.

Say cheese!!!

So you want to be a bridesmaid?

nge hairdos. How Satin dresses, leery best men and stra

to avoid ruining a good friendship?

No laughing matter

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So you have been asked to be a bridesmaid, hooray! But hang on, the bride wants you to wear peech satin and is insisting you all have the same pixie hair cuts! So being at the mercy of a bridezilla may be on the cards? We’ve all heard similar horror stories of being a bridesmaid, the horrendous dresses and the unwanted advances of a leery beery best man, so to prepare you for what being a bridesmaid may entail Katie Rooney has come up with an essential survival guide that no self respecting bridesmaid can afford to miss.

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It’s a huge honour never forget it even in the bleakest moments of pre wedding stresses. This is the most important thing to remember when you start to question why you even agreed to take the role. Your friend has chosen you to play an important part in her special day. She wants you there for support in the run up to and on the actual day.

She trusts you that much! It’s flattering and definitely something you’ll need to hold onto when the going gets tough.

2

Listen. As a bridesmaid you have to be there for the bride when the stress gets too much.

Be a comforting shoulder for her to cry on or just listen to her vent, a bit of moral support goes a long way.

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The plans. She’s going to be excited with all the plans she is making for the wedding so stay interested. Enquire about any new plans she’s made or if she needs any help.

Listening to her talk about whether soup is a good starter may be boring to you but it matters to her so just try to stay focused.

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Befriend the other bridesmaids. If you don’t know them already, get to know them!

You’re going to see them at the hen party and the wedding, at least, so take the time to make friends. A happy bridal party will make for a happy bride; she doesn’t want to have to worry about her husband-to-be’s sister feeling awkward on her hen do.

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The Hen Party.

As a bridesmaid it’s your job to help organise this but think about what the bride will want rather than what you’d like. Does she want to go away for a nice girly spa weekend or is she more of a night on the town kind of girl? It’s her party so make sure it’s what she feels most comfortable with.

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The Bridesmaid dress.

The biggest issue with being a bridesmaid is handing over the reins of what you’re going to wear to your friend. Of course you want to look good in front of everyone and in all the pictures but if the colour scheme means that you have to wear the one colour that doesn’t suit you, suck it up. Everyone at the wedding will know that the dress wasn’t your choice and won’t judge you for it. Wear the dress like a badge of honour, it identifies you as someone important enough to her to be a bridesmaid and people will automatically want to talk to you at the reception because of it. Everyone knows that being a bridesmaid gets you all the attention without the hassle of being the bride!

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Don’t get drunk on the morning of the wedding.

It’s a nerve racking time for everyone, especially the bride, but try and resist the urge to down a couple of glasses of champagne before the actual ceremony. Make sure you all eat a good breakfast, there will no doubt be copious amounts of alcohol throughout the day and you want to remember your best friend getting married!

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On the day emergencies.

Make sure you have a bag of necessities to ward off any bridal emergency from mascara meltdown to painkillers for an unwanted headache. You might want to have tissues for the tears to hand and a mini bottle of hair spray for any loose hairs.

On The day. It’s your friend’s wedding day so enjoy it, have a cry at how beautiful and happy she looks on her big day. This is the day you’ve been helping her get to since before she even met her new husband so enjoy it! Be happy for her – and you never know if you are single you may bag a would be groom for yourself!

Of course you want to look good in front of everyone and in all the pictures but if the colour scheme means that you have to wear the one colour that doesn’t suit you, suck it up. Everyone at the wedding will know that the dress wasn’t your choice and won’t judge you for it.

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Wedding Belles bridalwear

For a private appointment call Katie on 01481 255906

Bridal wear for all figure types.

Now stocking dresses for the fuller figure up to size 30

Wedding Belles is a family owned, family run, bridalwear boutique based on old fashioned values of business etiquette. Value for money and a service second to none has rewarded the company with a continually increasing market share which has placed it at the forefront of the Bridal industry.

Tel: 01481 255906 Mobile: 07781 126430

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