Your East Midlands Wedding - Oct/Nov 2023 (Issue 58)

EAST MIDLANDS

WEDDI NG

WIN!

A romantic mini-moon to Rhodes

FIRST BITE Catering ideas to wow guests

Be inspired by local couples

EXCHANGE VOWS Dreamy wedding venues

A passion for fashion

Gorgeous gowns and accessories

DEC 23/JAN 24

Love at

LOVE IS ALL AROUND

£3.55

For fashion-forward bridal luxury in the heart of the Peak District, Charlotte Elizabeth bridal is a Multi award winning high-end Bridal boutique providing beautiful gowns from some of the world’s leading designers.

Book your exclusive appointment for an unforgettable bridal experience! contact@charlotteelizabethbridal.com | 01629 818324 www.charlotteelizabethbridal.com 50 DALE ROAD MATLOCK DERBYSHIRE DE4 3LT

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

CONTENTS

REGULARS

47

6 EDITOR’S LETTER

Olivia Gibson shares her top picks from this issue

8 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the region

11 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

71 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer stellar advice on wedding dilemmas

89 COMPETITION Win a mini-moon in Rhodes worth £1,300

VENUES 19 KEEP IT LOCAL

On the cover

This issue’s cover has been taken from the styled shoot over on page 47, which was captured by the talented, www.evehopkinsonphotography.co.uk

FEATURES 43 JUST THE TWO OF US

This al fresco shoot featured modern and romantic touches to create the ultimate look

47 RUSTIC ROMANCE This autumnal-styled shoot was captured at Dronfield Hall Barn

51 BON APPÉTIT Keeping your guests from going hungry with these local catering companies

Exchange vows in and around Derbyshire

23 BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE Tie the knot at these winter wonderland venues

75 TIME TO CELEBRATE Keep loved ones entertained throughout the day with these talented businesses

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3

FASHION & BEAUTY

56 37

54 PARTY PIECES

Dazzle at a Christmas or winter wedding in stunning silver and crystal accessories

GROOMS

REAL WEDDINGS

78 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches

26 LOVE IS IN THE AIR

55 FASHION FOCUS

Eleanor and Reece’s elegant wedding at Yeldersley Hall was perfect from start to finish

The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches

32 RUSTIC ROMANCE

56 A TOUCH OF COLOUR Winter isn’t about wearing a white wedding dress, pick a fruit-pastel inspired shade or something a little bolder

59 IN VOGUE

David and Sophie’s stunning wedding at Skylark Farm featured a sage green colour scheme

Influencer Eyal Booker and his brother Ariel reveal their top hair care tips for grooms-to-be

81 DRESSED TO KILL Channel your inner James Bond with these black-tie options for the groom-to-be

37 GO FOR GOLD Kilworth House Hotel provided the perfect setting for Steph and Howard’s wedding

These model looks showcase the hottest bridal trends for 2024, with delicate details, texture takeovers and playful shorter styles

HONEYMOONS

82 HONEYMOON NEWS

Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials

84 THE ITALIAN DREAM

64 BEAUTY QUEEN

Discover the delights of Sardinia with a stay at the impressive Forte Village

We chat to Hannah Martin about her new book, Makeup, and all things bridal beauty

86 AN ICONIC ISLAND

66 BEAUTY BUZZ

A honeymooners’ paradise, Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Montego Bay have it all

Get the look with the latest must-haves

26

68 WELL GROUNDED If wedding planning stress is getting the better of you, take this time-out with Ground Wellbeing’s Peigin Crowley

69 BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems

68

4

80 MANE ATTRACTION

84

88 WHAT A TREAT! The stylish Retreat at Elcot Park is country-house comfort at its best

Iamges by Sarah Vivienne Photography

Lux Life Wedding Florist of the Year - Northamptonshire 2023 07867 920958 K N I B B

P L AC E ,

B A R TO N

|

helbrow@aol.com

S E AG R AV E ,

| www.byarrangement.org

K E T T E R I N G ,

N O R T H A M P TO N S H I R E

N N 1 5

6 S Z

DESIGN 01376 535616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding

@CountyWeddingMagazines @CountyWeddings @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www. county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com

H

ello, lovely readers, and welcome to another issue of Your East Midlands Wedding!

It’s officially the festive season, and you’ll find me playing a winter-inspired playlist with a hot chocolate in hand and a book in the other. Minus scraping the ice off my car in the mornings, winter is my favourite season. There’s something so satisfying about getting cosy, enjoying heart-warming meals, movie nights and Christmas!

It’s a magical time with festive cheer, family time, jolly songs, nostalgic films, and plenty of celebrations.

For those reading this in January, I hope you’ve all started 2024 with a bang like the fabulous firework displays that lit the sky as Big Ben struck midnight. January is a wonderful time of year! Some may disagree but it signifies new beginnings, which I find rather quite exciting. It’s so freeing to set new goals and ambitions. Just be kind to yourself, don’t add too much pressure and conquer your goals one step at a time.

For many, winter will be full of celebrations after many pop the question over the Christmas and New Year period. So, if you’ve just received a shiny new rock, welcome to the world of weddings!

We’re so happy you’re here and can’t wait to help you plan the big day. This issue is full of showstopping venues, expert suppliers and plenty of advice – we have it all! We aim to support you from receiving your fabulous engagement ring until you walk down the aisle while keeping it local. It doesn’t stop there, as we share popular honeymoon destinations for unforgettable trips worldwide.

So what are you waiting for? Get ready to discover must-have dresses, showstopping accessories, catering inspiration, stunningstyled shoots and local weddings from around the region. Your dream team might only be a few pages away.

That’s all from me, happy planning!

Olivia x Olivia Gibson, Editor

78

Channel your inner James Bond with these black-tie options for the groom-to-be!

56 Winter isn’t about wearing a white wedding dress, pick a fruit-pastel inspired shade or something a little bolder.

Your East Midlands Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Events & Publishing Ltd. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

Your East Midlands Wedding is published six times a year.

ISSN 2054-6726

cwe C O U N T Y WEDDING E V E N T S

6

www.sarahcarterphotography.co.uk

43

The Grange in Lincolnshire provided a picture-perfect backdrop to this styled shoot. The team created a luxury picnic for two under a 300-year-old oak tree called William.

www.alexandragrecco.com

EDITORIAL Editor Olivia Gibson | 01376 535611 olivia.gibson@county.wedding

Winter winds

www.marksandspencer.com

ADVERTISING Account Manager Gillian Ward | 01376 538 485 gillian.ward@county.wedding

www.pmphotography.uk

23

David and Sophie’s stunning wedding at Skylark Farm featured a sage green colour scheme and plenty of personal touches.

Situated in Lincolnshire, The Dower House Hotel is an elegant Edwardian property that provides the ideal setting for winter weddings.

26

71

Eleanor and Reece’s wedding was full of delicious food to keep guests from going hungry, from a three-course wedding breakfast, a spectacular cake and tasty crepes in the evening!

Plan a stress-free wedding with help from the talented Linzi Barford at that black & white cat weddings!

11

75

www.thebeardedmanphotography.com

We’ve teamed up with Wild Peach Ceremonies to share an exclusive offer for celebrant-led ceremonies!

https://bgsweddings.co.uk

www.portfoliophotographic.co.uk

32

Emma Lane Designs offer a large range of unique, handmade garden games that are sure to keep guests entertained.

www.hannahshearmanphotography.co.uk

www.facebook.com/lovephotography13weddings

EDITOR’S LETTER

7

BLOOMING MARVELLOUS

https://heathersham.com

The Horseshoe Flowers team is celebrating its busiest year after helping almost 50 couples bring their dream wedding to life. So, they’re taking on more studio space at The Haarlem Mills in Wirksworth, allowing room for a little photo studio on one side to capture all their designs as the arrangements leave for weddings. There’s now a lovely space for couples to visit and meet the team to discuss their wedding plans. Owner Sarah Ogden says, “Highlights of the year include working with some amazing wedding stylists nationwide, including weddings at the incredible Asylum Chapel in London, The Globe at Hay and one of Derbyshires’ finest venues, Grangefields. We have also designed floral dreams for destination weddings as far away as Santorini and Las Vegas as well as created the flowers for our first-ever wedding taster evening at the local extraordinaire, The West Mill in Derby.

We can’t wait to see what 2024 brings!”

Discover more about the company: www.horseshoeflowers.com

d e w y l r a e N

NEWS www.lindsaybettsphotography.co.uk

All the latest from around the region

BLUSHING BRIDE Rachel Bray Makeup Artistry is the regional winner at the Wedding Industry Awards. Owner Rachel is thrilled to have taken home the East Midlands Makeup Artist award, a testimony to her hard work and dedication to ensure her clients look and feel their best for events. She says, “I’m absolutely thrilled to have won! The fact that my brides have voted means the world, and the most important thing to me is that they’re happy with their make-up experience.

Your bridal look should reflect you, your style and individuality. You’ll want to feel amazing and confident on your wedding day! I love to create natural or soft glam bridal looks. Romantic, glowing and flawless skin is my thing – no caking here! Pick someone with years of experience who knows what products photograph well and will bring the right vibe to your morning. I assure you, they’re worth every single penny!”

Discover more about the company: www.rachelbraymakeupartistry.com 8

ACCESSORISE AND SHINE Celebrate individuality with a bridal headpiece from the exciting new British accessories brand Bonito & Grace. The company is the style insider’s go-to for adding a relaxed vibe to occasionwear with modern fascinators, headbands and hair accessories. The new bridal range features the coolest headbands and accessories, offering a contemporary alternative to the traditional veil.

With affordable prices, starting at just £25, Bonito & Grace makes that modern bridal style accessible to everyone – a refreshing alternative in budget-busting bridal fashion.

Add a retro, playful feel to weddings with the oversized Charlotte Bow. Embellished with pearls and crystals, this super-sized bow makes the most fabulous finishing touch for any fashion-loving bride. Channel Sophie Habboo’s modern elegance bridal vibe with the gorgeous Gigi Headband. The large satin bow and white netting is the perfect clash of prim and playful – pair it with a mini dress and white platform heels for extra style points. Make a statement in the metallic woven Margot Headband. Soft to the touch and super-comfy to wear, the piece instantly adds an effortlessly cool feel.

Oversized pearls are a massive trend for 2023, and now brides can get the look with the Ciara Headband. Giving a contemporary twist on a vintage style, it adds a touch of subtle glamour to any wedding day look.

Discover the collection: https://bonitoandgrace.com

LOCAL NEWS

DRESSED TO IMPRESS Brides dream of their wedding day as a celebration of love and individuality, and the new Bella Donna Collection embodies this vision.

Named after the Italian phrase for ‘beautiful woman’, it pays homage to the inherent beauty of each bride.

Crafted by Aureus Flos, a brand specialising in handcrafted bridal accessories and jewellery, the collection is a harmonious blend of styles, materials, and inspirations. It features an array of sets, each with a distinctive charm.

Inspired by the goddess of flowers, Flora exudes an ethereal allure with Italian silk taffeta to capture nature’s delicate beauty. Rosa evokes the enchantment of Italian gardens, bringing the romance of nature to wedding attire. Diana offers minimalist grace for those who cherish timeless elegance, while Victoria exudes vintage charm with glistening rhinestones and intricate patterns. Aurora, named after the Roman goddess of dawn, shimmers subtly like the first light of day, while Stella is the collection star that exudes drama, glamour, and decadence. The Bella Donna Collection is a versatile and unforgettable choice for every bride, with materials like Italian chiffon, silk taffeta, rhinestones, crystals, seashell pearls, hematites, and quartz crystals.

Explore the entire collection: www.aureusflos.com

BIG-DAY BEAUTIFUL Jemma Swinfield Hair and Makeup Artist has been announced as a finalist for the English Beauty Awards 2023.

This year has been the busiest for owner Jemma, who has met many wonderful couples along the way. She’s noticed make-up trends changing from full glam to more pinky, peachy, and glowing looks.

The focus on skin and really enhancing people’s natural beauty has always been her passion, so she’s excited to see this trend continue in 2024. Hairstyles are becoming more relaxed and less formal.

Gone are the days of static hairstyles that feel hard to the touch!

Wearable, touchable, tousled manes create the ultimate look in quiet luxury. Jemma says, “As an artist, I enjoy the ever-changing styles but encourage my brides to consider how they want to reflect on the images captured from the big day. Fashion changes, and it’s important they still feel like themselves.”

Jemma is honoured to have been a finalist for the Best Hair and Makeup Artist Award. She comments, “As always, I’m humbled to have such a rewarding and exciting career. I’m looking forward to the 2024 wedding season already!”

Discover: www.bridalhairandmakeupleicestershire.com www.gettyimages.co.uk

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY Rutland Hall Hotel recently hosted local businesses at the 18th edition of the Rutland & Stamford Mercury Business Awards, celebrating the success of the best of the county and surrounding area.

The prestigious evening gala was proudly hosted in the venue’s new Pavilion building, the latest addition to its events and wedding offering – it can accommodate up to 500 guests ahead of its official opening to the public in January.

The evening was hailed a great success by all those in attendance, shining a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of the businesses that drive economic growth and strengthen their local communities. In addition to hosting the event, Rutland Hall proudly sponsored the winners’ champagne, adding a touch of elegance to an already glitzy evening.

Winners included Birch Tree Cafe for Best New Start Up, The Blonde Best for Business Innovation and MindSpace Stamford for Team of the Year.

Joanne White, managing director of Rutland Hall Hotel, says, “We’re honoured to have hosted the awards in our fabulous Rutland Pavillion and extend our heartfelt congratulations to all winners. Here at Rutland Hall,

we’re dedicated to supporting local businesses and fostering a spirit of excellence within our community, so it was fabulous to be a part of this special celebration.”

Discover more about the company: https://rutlandhall.co.uk 9

Keep your Wedding Flowers Forever Preserve your bouquet

Flowers are special and meaningful. They make people smile, spread positivity and are good for mental health, creating happiness and joy. Flowers are a very special part of a wedding for many. But they do not last forever. A way that your bouquet can be preserved forever is by pressing it into clay.

My mission is to make so many more brides happy by preserving their special bouquets into everlasting, heart-warming keepsakes using my developed, bespoke way of preserving flowers forever.

Flowers can be fresh or dried – if you have a bouquet up in the loft gathering dust, this is an opportunity to have it made into something special that will last forever! Choose from a vase, jug, wall hanging tiles, bowls, coasters, house number plaques and more, plus thank you gifts for family or suppliers.

“I knew about Charlotte since my sister had her wedding bouquet preserved by her and as soon as I got engaged I knew I wanted to do the same. Charlotte’s communication with her clients is great and emails were always replied to very quickly. The process was so simple, I posted my flowers and she kept me updated throughout. Our ceramic pieces now take pride of place in our home and constantly remind us of our special day! Highly recommended!”

Get in Touch!

For recent work please follow @charlotteceramics For more information visit www.charlottehupfieldceramics.com Photography Credit: Melody Todd

Freebies & OFFERS FREEBIES & OFFERS

Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

EXCHANGING VOWS

www.thebeardedmanphotography.com

Look no further than Wild Peach Ceremonies in Leicestershire for relaxed and personal weddings with a difference. Owner Helen Peach-O’Malley is a qualified and passionate celebrant specialising in magical Pagan and Celtic handfasting ceremonies.

She says, “Your day should be meaningful, fun and as unique as your love story. I enjoy getting to know my couples and creating magical moments for them to treasure for years to come.”

We’ve teamed up with the company to offer readers 10 per cent off full handfasting ceremonies or 5 per cent off scripted wedding ceremonies when they quote Your East Midlands Wedding before February 1st, 2024.

Get in touch with the team to secure your booking and discover more about the company: www.wildpeachceremonies.co.uk

WIN TWO STRIKING ACCURIST WATCHES WORTH UP TO £538!

County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with British heritage watch brand Accurist to offer readers the chance to win this ultimate prize package for nearlyweds.

Brides-to-be have the choice of a stunning set from Accurist and Sarah Alexander collaboration (www.accurist.com/accurist-x-sarah-alexander). Priced from £209 to £289. This curation of nine unique giftsets, combines Sarah Alexander jewellery with Accurists best-selling, vintage-inspired Rectangle and Jewellery collections. All gift sets have been hand curated to showcase a coordinated look, featuring bangles, bracelets, earrings and necklaces with a wide variety of unique gemstones such as Rose Quartz, Mother of Pearl and Blue Kyanite − winners will be hard-pressed to choose!

Grooms-to-be have the tough choice of selecting a dashing watch from one of Accurists men’s collection (www.accurist.com/mens-watches). Priced from £119 to £249. Whether you go for a 1950s-inspired ‘Classic’ collection or the bold design of its ‘70s bestseller ‘Origin’ collection, all of Accurists’ collections have taken inspiration from 77 years of British watchmaking. Each watch comes with quick-release interchangeable straps, a five-year extended warranty and unique features in each collection.

What’s more, whether you require the above two sets, or two brides or grooms, both come presented in Accurists watch roll gift packaging and can be personalised with engraving on the case back − perfect for the happy day.

Check out www.accurist.com Enter online via the website www.youreastmidlands.wedding by 31st January, 2024. Terms and conditions apply.

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WEDDING SHOWS

SPRING 2024 ALL EVENTS 11AM - 3PM unless otherwise stated

At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area.

All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day.

KENT

SUN, 4 FEB 2024 PENHURST PLACE

SUN, 25 FEB 2024 CAVE HOTEL

SUN, 3 MAR 2024 BRADBOURNE HOUSE

SUN, 12 MAY 2024 FRASERS

Penshurst, TN11 8DG

Brickfield Lane, Boughton, ME13 9AJ

New Rd, East Malling, ME19 6DZ

ColdHarbour Farm, Barhams Mill Road, Egerton, TN27 9DD

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA /CountyWeddingEvents

@ CountyWedEvent

@ countyweddingevents

ESSEX

SUN, 7 JAN 2024 HEDINGHAM CASTLE

SUN, 14 JAN 2024 ORSETT HALL

Bayley Street, Castle Hedingham, CO9 3DJ

Prince Charles Avenue, Orsett, RM16 3HS

SUN, 28 JAN 2024 BRAXTED PARK

SUN, 21 JAN 2024 PRESTED HALL

Braxted Park Estate, Great Braxted, CM8 3EN

Feering, Colchester, CO5 9EE

SUN, 17 MAR 2024 LAYER MARNEY

SUN, 11 FEB 2024 CRONDON PARK Stock Road, Stock, CM4 9DP

Layer Marney, Colchester, CO5 9US

SUN, 24 MAR 2024 VAULTY MANOR

SUN, 14 APR 2024 THAT AMAZING PLACE

Heybridge, CM9 4SA

Hubbards Hall Farm, Harlow, CM17 0NH

SUN, 14 APR 2024 HOUCHINS

SUN, 21 APR 2024 CHANNELS ESTATE

Osea Leisure,

Goldhanger Road,

12pm-4pm

Houchins Lane, Coggeshall, CO6 1RT

Belsteads Farm Lane, Little Waltham, CM3 3PT

Fashion Show

SUN, 28 APR 2024 OLD ESSEX BARN Cranes Lane, Kelvedon, Colchester, CO5 9AX

SUN, 12 MAY 2024 BRAXTED PARK

Braxted Park Estate, Great Braxted, CM8 3EN

ESSEX

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

SUN, 19 MAY 2024 ST OSYTH PRIORY

West Field Lane, St Osyth, CO16 8GW

SUN, 17 MAR 2024 SWYNFORD MANOR

London Road, Six Mile Bottom, CB8 0UE

SURREY

SUN, 18 FEB 2024 DENBIES WINE ESTATE

London Road, Dorking, RH5 6AA

SUN, 12 MAY 2024 NUTFIELD PRIORY Nutfield Road, Nutfield, Redhill, RH1 4EL

NORFOLK

SUN, 3 MAR 2024 SPROWSTON MANOR

Wroxham Road, Norwich, NR7 8RP

SUN, 24 MAR 2024 KIMBERLEY HALL Estate Office, Wymondham, NR18 0RT

SUFFOLK 12pm-4pm

SUN, 7 JAN 2024 HINTLESHAM HALL Hintlesham, Ipswich, IP8 3NS

SUN, 25 FEB 2024 FYNN VALLEY Witnesham, Ipswich, IP6 9JA

SUN, 4 FEB 2024 THE MILSOMS Hall Road, Ipswich, IP5 2PU

SUN, 21 APR 2024 RAVENWOOD HALL HOTEL

Rougham, Bury St Edmunds, IP30 9JA

BEDFORDSHIRE

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

SUN, 17 MAR 2024 LUTON HOO

SUN, 14 APR 2024 RACKLEYS

Estate Office, Luton Hoo Estate, Luton, LU1 4LF

Marlow Road, Cadmore End, HP14 3PP

LEICESTERSHIRE

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

SUN, 28 JAN 2024 STAPLEFORD PARK

SUN, 18 FEB 2024 RUSHTON HALL

Desborough Road, Rushton, NN14 1RR

Stapleford, LE14 2EF

HERTFORDSHIRE

SUN, 14 JAN 2024 MICKLEFIELD HALL

SUN, 21 JAN 2024 SANDON MANOR Sandon Bury Farm, Buntingford, SG9 0QY

Sarratt Road, Sarratt, WD3 6AQ

HAMPSHIRE SUN, 3 MAR 2024 WARE PRIORY

12PM-4PM

High Street, Ware, SG12 9AL

SUN, 25 FEB 2024 AUDLEYS WOOD HOTEL Alton Road, Basingstoke, RG25 2JT

WORK WITH US As part of KD Events and Publishing Ltd, County Wedding Events (CWE) is ideally placed to offer you a wealth of experience organising events in the wedding industry. If you would like more information about either holding a wedding show at your venue or exhibiting at any of our shows, please contact us at info@countyweddingevents.com, call 01376 514000 or visit countyweddingevents.com.

Signature

WEDDING SHOWS

• Free entry • Goody bag for each couple • Up to 200 stands • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Demonstration areas • Competitions • Entertainment • Refreshments • And more...

MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL DATE TO BE CONFIRMED | 11AM - 3:00PM

ASCOT RACECOURSE High Street, Berkshire, SL5 7JX SUNDAY 7TH APRIL 2024 | 11AM - 3.30PM

Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of

Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to kickstarting our Spring 2024 wedding show season – perfect for all those couples that got engaged over the Summer period.

From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues to our larger Signature Wedding Shows, we can’t wait to welcome nearlyweds to our events and help plan their wedding day.

Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof.

On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés.

Couples will need to pre-register in advance for an allocated arrival time, although on the day visitors are always welcome, and attending our shows are free!

For more information, visit County Wedding Events’ website.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our events.

Sarah X

Sarah Ellis, Sales and Events Director County Wedding Events.

Psst! Our pre-registered Signature Wedding Show visitors will have the chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of Spabreaks.com

A date for your diary...

ASCOT RACECOURSE, 7TH APRIL 2024

MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD, 28TH APRIL 2024

Pre-register for all of our events at www.countyweddingevents.com

Your perfect day —

A T

S T O C K T O N

H O U S E

—

Nestled in the beauty of Shropshire’s rolling countryside, the Apley Estate proudly presents Stockton house, our stunning 18th century grade II listed venue.

With it’s stylish Georgian design, walled garden dining room, elegant bar and spacious terrace, it has been lovingly restored with guest comfort in mind.

WHAT’S INCLUDED • Exclusive use of the whole house and grounds including seven luxurious bedrooms • A breath-taking wedding suite • Civil ceremony facilities for both indoor and outdoor weddings

• Full use of our walled garden dining room • A complimentary menu tasting with your own personal chef

S T O C K T O N

• Crockery, cutlery, tableware and glassware

• Breakfast the next day for the happy couple

enquiries@stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk H O U S E

• Tables, chairs and linen laid to your chosen wedding breakfast floor plan

• A dedicated wedding planner

01952 730894

N O R T O N

S H I F N A L

stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk S H R O P S H I R E

T F 1 1

9 E F

stockton_house

Keep it local Exchange vows in and around Derbyshire

www.thekensingtonphotographer.co.uk

LOCAL VENUES

THE KEDLESTON COUNTRY HOUSE

The Orangery is a bright and spacious setting that directly connects to the terrace and gardens, extending the space for guests to enjoy. Boasting beautiful views over the gardens and the Kedleston Estate, The Orangery is a modern and dreamy setting for ceremonies with 70 loved ones and 120 in the evenings. With an adjoining patio and a glass skylight allowing for the most incredible natural lighting, what’s not to love?

The five on-site bedrooms are available to book so the nearest and dearest don’t have far to travel after dancing the night away.

Nearlyweds who book the property will receive a free menu tasting session. The venue also currently has a special offer for anyone who books their 2024 wedding before 31st December 2023; couples will receive 50 per cent off their venue hire fee. Terms & Conditions apply; contact the wedding coordinator for details: weddings@kedlestoncountryhouse.co.uk.

www.storiesfromeros.com

www.thekensingtonphotographer.co.uk

01332 982 838 | www.kedlestoncountryhouse.co.uk Built in 1762, The Kedleston Country House is a Georgian property designed by renowned architect Robert Adam while he was working on his grandest design: Kedleston Hall. Despite its countryside location, the property is only miles away from Derby City Centre, making it easily accessible for guests travelling from further afield.

Set amidst rolling Derbyshire countryside with far-reaching views of neighbouring farmland, The Kedleston Country House has spectacular landscaped gardens perfect for outdoor games in the summer.

With elegant interiors and modern touches, the 18th-century Grade II listed house provides a magnificent setting for special events. With its high-set windows and stunning features, the Dining Room is an idyllic, intimate space for ceremonies or wedding breakfasts with 50 people. The high-set windows and traditional features make it an idyllic, intimate area with mostly upcycled vintage furniture.

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www.evehopkinsonphotography.co.uk

www.evehopkinsonphotography.co.uk

DRONFIELD HALL BARN

team works closely with Derbyshire registrars to ensure that service runs smoothly and that guests leave with tears in their eyes. For those thinking of a church ceremony, the team would be honoured to welcome lovebirds to the Barn afterwards to celebrate.

With an in-house bespoke catering service, in collaboration with The Cricket Inn Sheffield, the staff will work in pairs to create individual menus ranging from la carte dining to hearty pies or street food.

The romantic fairy-lit gallery is a beautiful space for guests to enjoy evening receptions. The resident DJ will get everyone up on the dancefloor and is happy to receive requests and playlists from couples.

The team also welcomes acoustic musicians and ceilidh bands.

www.francesmilburnphotography.co.uk

www.francesmilburnphotography.co.uk

07931 830 597 | https://dronfieldhallbarn.org Dronfield Hall Barn is a beautiful historical setting in the heart of Dronfield, offering rustic charm and contemporary spaces. The stunning gardens, private courtyard and flexible indoor areas provide the space to relax and enjoy spending time with loved ones.

All profits from weddings held at the venue go back into the Dronfield Heritage Trust, an independent charity led by local people working to preserve the property and continue varied events programmes to engage with different community segments.

The stunning 1430’s Barn offers the perfect space for ceremonies. The

DARWIN LAKE 01629 735 859 | www.darwinlake.co.uk Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, Darwin Lake is a truly magical wedding venue in Derbyshire. Licenced for civil wedding ceremonies, it’s the perfect place to exchange vows and hold wedding receptions all in one superb wedding venue in Darwin Forest.

The exclusive grounds include a private lake, a babbling brook and the charming stone-built Darwin Hall. With its two large function rooms, the Hall’s interior has a classy multifunctional design, allowing pairs to create just the atmosphere and look desired for their special day. The Hall seats up to 130 people on either floor and sits adjacent to the lawns, which 20

can easily support a large marquee. The team now also offers outdoor ceremonies by the stunning lakeside too!

Darwin Lake presents a high-quality wedding venue for entire weekend celebrations or midweek one-day weddings to suit all needs.

There are 17 quaint, four-star stone cottages with modern interiors that can accommodate groups from 16 to 110 guests. Guests can all relax in the comfort of the beautiful surroundings for the duration of wedding weekends. Complimentary stays are available for newlyweds!

Set amongst the rolling hills and pine forests above the Peak District village of Two Dales, Darwin Lake is three miles from Matlock and 25 miles from the M1.

LOCAL VENUES

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Also check out…

STRETTON MANOR BARN Stretton Manor Barn is located on 22 acres of stunning countryside and offers the perfect setting for showstopping weddings. The venue, lovingly built in 2020 exclusively for weddings, provides a secluded and easily accessible location for all to enjoy. The team is on hand to help make the planning process more manageable while ensuring everything goes according to plan at all events – meaning couples can relax knowing their day is in safe hands.

Check out: www.strettonmanorbarn.co.uk

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TISSINGTON HALL Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Peak District National Park, Tissington Hall is truly an unrivalled location with beautiful country views.

The historic 17th-century building is a fabulous wedding setting and can be hired exclusively for each event. Francis FitzHerbert built the Grade II listed building, which features an imposing southern approach via a grand gateway and an avenue of lime trees. Couples will fall in love with the gardens stretching more than five acres.

Check out: http://tissingtonhall.co.uk

RINGWOOD HALL HOTEL & SPA

THE RIDING SCHOOL, CALKE ABBEY

Nestled in Chesterfield, Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa is an impressive Georgian manor house set within 19th-century formal gardens. Everything has been lovingly restored to its former glory, from a rolling parkland to a secret woodland area and kitchen garden. The venue’s charming interior features elegant touches, high ceilings, ornate chandeliers and period features.

Check out: www.ringwoodhallhotel.com

Set amidst 600 acres of picturesque parkland, The Riding School is an 18th-century manor house that will transport guests to a Bygone era of glamour and elegance. The manicured gardens, flowers and beautiful greenhouses are just some of the scenic highlights on the grounds of this estate.

Check out: https://ivyhouseweddings.co.uk 21

, e ov l r You on i ss a p r u o CREATING UNFORGETTABLE WEDDINGS

W ED D I N G S AT PE A K EDG E Nestled on the edge of Derbyshire’s beautiful Peak District National Park, serenity and sophistication come together to create an elegant setting for your special day at the award-winning Peak Edge Hotel.

Peak Edge offers all you need to make your perfect country wedding a reality, with stunning grounds, far-reaching views, oak beams, vaulted dining rooms and roaring open fires to set the scene.

W ED D I N G S H OWC A S E E V EN TS Explore a world of possibilities at our inspirational wedding events! Join us at Peak Edge Hotel for an extraordinary showcase of specialist suppliers and magical moments. Immerse yourself in the ambiance, discover stunning displays, sample delicious dishes, and envision your dream wedding. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity!

Visit www.peakedgehotel.co.uk/weddings to learn more and reserve your place.

DARLEY ROAD | STONE EDGE | CHESTERFIELD | DERBYSHIRE | S45 0LW AA TEL : 01246 566142 WWW.PEAKEDGEHOTEL .CO.UK

WINTER WONDERLAND VENUES

www.pmphotography.uk

Baby it ’s

COLD OUTSIDE Check out these snowstopping winter venues

THE DOWER HOUSE HOTEL

01526 352 588 | www.dowerhousehotel.co.uk Situated in Lincolnshire, The Dower House Hotel is an elegant Edwardian Hotel with the ideal wedding setting. The property creates many photographic backdrops thanks to its beautiful features, including redbrick walls, stunning windows and mock Tudor timbers. Exchange vows outside under the majestic weeping willow at the romantic Folly with 120 people or in the Oak Room with 80 guests under the starlit ceiling. If couples say “I do” in the winter months, the Garden Room can host 30 loved ones who will stay warm thanks to the large open fire.

The Private Dining Room can accommodate 12 people for more intimate weddings and is full of Edwardian charm. The staff can transform The Oak Room and The Harden Room to continue the evening

celebrations. Or, why not opt for the Seasons, which can host 80?

Alternatively, the Orchard Suite can hold up to 120 people for wedding breakfasts and 180 revellers for evening celebrations. The space features beautiful high ceilings and chandeliers that add wow to events. The enthusiastic and friendly staff are always willing to go the extra mile to make events memorable, and the experienced wedding planner will be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Couples who book the Elegance or Indulgence Package will receive a complimentary tasting session to help select a menu for their wedding breakfast as well as an overnight stay in the honeymoon suite on their special day. The Indulgence Package also offers two bedrooms the night before the wedding, allowing couples to get ready without rushing.

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WOODHALL SPA MANOR 01526 352 267 | www.woodhallspamanor.com Woodhall Spa Manor is a multi-award-winning and luxury self-catering venue set in the heart of a beautiful village in Lincolnshire. The manor sits amidst several acres of grounds with well-manicured lawns and an ancient woodland adjoining the Bracken Golf Course. The venue is only available for exclusive use, meaning couples can enjoy weddings privately with loved ones. With four lovely reception rooms, eight individually-styled bedrooms and suites as well as two fully fitted kitchens, what location could be better to celebrate in style? Exchange vows in the

STAPLEFORD PARK HOTEL & SPA 01572 787 016 | www.staplefordpark.com Surrounded by acres of English countryside in Leicestershire, boarding Lincolnshire and Rutland, Stapleford Park creates a charming setting.

With maintained gardens, a 5 km nature trail, extensive activities and plenty of wildlife, the surroundings are full of photographic backdrops.

Couples will find intimate spaces full of natural lighting and period features inside, with abundant history waiting to be discovered. The Morning & Gilt rooms provide intimacy and affection for ceremonies with up to 30 people. The Orangery offers guests the perfect unification between indoors and outdoors. Elegantly housing up to 150 guests, the space is the ideal location to enjoy the stunning gardens of Stapleford 24

Queens Room with 100 people, which features a grand inglenook fire place, crystal chandeliers and a varnished original hardwood floor. Or why not opt for the Britannia Room, surrounded by 60 loved ones? Both spaces feature large sash windows overlooking the lawns as well as a red, gold and cream colour scheme with gold Chiavari chairs. The Sunken Garden can accommodate 200 people in the woodland-canopied setting on the manor’s grounds for outdoor weddings. The space features a white Victorian-style gazebo and a pond with a fountain. Continue the celebrations in the Queens Room with 80 people or in the Britannia Room with up to 50 – both spaces offer multiple layout options.

Park while exchanging vows. Alternatively, the Harborough Room is a unique space filled with character and history. The setting can host 25 guests, so pairs are surrounded by luxury, affection and devotion. Plus, it can be transformed for receptions after the “I dos”. The Old Kitchen is full of character, creating the perfect celebration room for celebrations. With a capacity of up to 36 guests, the light and spacious setting is ideal for starting new chapters. For larger events, The Grand Hall is a captivating sight that can comfortably fit up to 200 people when joined with The Orangery. It offers an abundance of natural light, gorgeous views and breathtaking styling. Those who book their wedding here will receive a menu-tasting session with the wedding packages, a night in the bridal suite on their wedding day and a first-anniversary stay.

www.s6photography.co.uk

www.s6photography.co.uk

WINTER WONDERLAND VENUES

THORNBRIDGE ESTATE features a glass ceiling and access to a pretty outside courtyard with seating and a terrace overlooking the Kitchen Gardens. It’s the perfect blank canvas to add personal finishes for 180 guests to enjoy or 250 with the marquee attached. In the cellars underneath The Carriage House, there’s a secret underground bar where pairs can have their own nightclub for the evenings.

The team want the food to be one of the highlights of weddings; their award-winning caterers will create a bespoke menu for couples tailored to their tastes and preferences. They don’t offer set menus, so every wedding breakfast is personalised and expertly prepared using local and seasonal produce. Once bookings are confirmed, lovebirds will be invited for an extensive tasting of several options for each course. It’s a case of whatever they fancy for the evening, from bacon rolls and cheese board tables to hog roasts and fish and chips.

www.estherlouisetriffittphotography.com

www.jamesgreenstudio.com

01629 640 617 | www.thornbridgehall.co.uk Thornbridge Hall is a Grade II listed stately home nestled amongst the rolling hills of the Peak District. The Hall and its 14 acres of formal gardens are set within 100 acres of stunning parkland. The team has lovingly restored both to create one of the country’s most exclusive event venues.

The Music Room is an ornate space that has been lovingly restored to its earlier state and now has a feel of the Palace of Versailles. The vows can take place with 40 loved ones and 12 for receptions. Alternatively, The Great Hall can host 100 seated guests and 50 upstairs in the gallery for grand celebrations. A Grade II listed temple in front of the Hall with panoramic views of the parkland to Ashford-in-the-Water can be used for the “I dos” with 200 loved ones. Or, pairs can hold ceremonies on the South Lawn Terrace in front of the South Lawn Temple, weather permitting.

Wedding receptions can be held in the stunning Carriage House, previously the former stable building. The spacious and bright space

NORWOOD PARK 01636 302 099 | www.norwoodpark.co.uk Norwood Park is a quintessential Georgian country home based in Southwell, Nottinghamshire. The property has a fantastic choice of ceremony and reception spaces for lovebirds looking to tie the knot. The team offers exclusive use of the country house and gardens to help create memorable events. They’ve even styled The Orangery as a private salon with ornate mirrors, two dressing tables, and ample prep space for all brides’ necessities.

Exchange vows in The Clock Tower, a timeless Palladian Hall painted entirely in white with oak flooring, large sash windows, a panelled ceiling, oversized mirrors and a sequence of gold chandeliers. Alternatively, The Drawing Room is a stunning example of a contemporary and classic interior design – perfect for up to 80 guests. Family oil paintings dating back more than 350 years sit easily alongside original mirrors and a

historic fire place. The Starkey Bandstand is the ideal location to share wedding vows outdoors, surrounded by 150 guests. The space has been designed especially for weddings and is versatile enough to host a live band for outdoor events too.

For receptions, The Long Gallery is bathed in natural lighting throughout the day and is blessed with soft, warm light from the magnificent chandeliers when the skies darken. Alternatively, The Clock Tower leads to the fixed marquee, which includes a permanent bar, dancefloor and stage. Several French doors open out onto the private courtyard. Dance the night away underneath the twinkly fairylights on the dancefloor or rest on one of the blue sofas while enjoying cocktails from the bar.

The team has a deep-rooted passion for Norwood Park’s history and is honoured to win the national Best Historical Wedding Venue award in The Wedding Industry Awards (TWIA) 2023 – what an achievement!

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Love is in THE AIR

Eleanor and Reece’s elegant wedding at Yeldersley Hall was perfect from start to finish Images courtesy of Portfolio Photographic

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REAL WEDDINGS

E

leanor and Reece met on a night out just before the lockdown in 2020 and created a strong bond that grew over the next few years. Reece was attracted to Eleanor’s independence and thought she was the most gorgeous girl. It was love at first sight for them both – how romantic!

Reece proposed while walking during the second lockdown in January 2021. Elenor says, “I knew he was going to propose as we had chosen the ring together a few months prior, but he chose when to do it and I had no idea!”

SETTING THE SCENE After getting engaged, it was time for the pair to plan their dream day using local suppliers to bring their vision to life. The date was set to September 23rd 2023, with the aim to create a fun day that reflected their personalities. The pair are always bantering and joking around, so the day needed to be laid back.

The couple visited a couple of venues one day, but the properties didn’t tick all their boxes in one way or another. As they were driving home, the pair happened to stumble across Yeldersley Hall. After a quick Google search to see if the venue hosts weddings, the lovebirds arranged to view the spaces the next day. Elenor comments, “We just knew it was going to be our wedding venue; we fell more and more in love with the character of the place as we were shown around. It had everything we wanted from a venue, even alpacas! The owner, Andrew, was so helpful and easy to get along with – this helped our decision.”

For the wedding breakfast, the pair named the tables after different types of caravans, as they lived in a small one for the first nine months of their relationship. The centrepieces were blush pink vases with flower arrangements on top of a wooden log piece.

Reece made almost all of the favours, which included little envelopes with flower seeds in them and packets of sweets with funny play-onwords such as ‘O-fish-ally married’ for fish-shaped sweets, bottles of water with paracetamols as hangover kits and wooden coasters for place names that people could take home. The napkins with fun facts about the couple were a lovely touch to the table settings.

To keep guests from going hungry, the lovebirds had a three-course meal with the choice between chorizo and Manchego arancini or Thai crab cakes for starters, sea bass with citrus sauce or beef with bourguignon sauce as mains. Then they enjoyed a trio of desserts with brownie, white chocolate and ginger cheesecake, and lemon tart – yum!

The stunning cake was served in the evening, featuring a gorgeous personalised cake topper of the lovebirds that matched their outfits.

LOOKING THE PART Elenor wore an ivory dress on her big day. She always knew a fitted plain dress with a small train would be for her and found the one after trying on the fourth gown – leaving the bride in tears. She borrowed a veil with pearls and sparkles from her sister-in-law and wore beautiful pearl jewellery to match. She says, “I just felt like a princess and as soon as I was ready, I just couldn’t wait to show Reece my dress after keeping it a secret for six months – that was hard as I tell Reece everything!”

The groomsmen wore grey suits to match Reece, but he wore a yellow rose buttonhole to honour his Nan as it was her favourite flower and a sage green tie that was the bride’s favourite colour. “I thought Reece looked incredibly handsome”, says the bride. She continues, “I felt full of love and happiness as I was getting to marry my best friend that day.

Reece said he felt blessed; my dress was everything he had imagined for months. He felt giddy with happiness seeing me.”

The flowergirl wore a pretty dress, which was half ivory and half blush to tie the colour scheme together.

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Here at Finishing Touches Wedding and Event Hire, we have the passion and style to help you create your dream wedding. We love working with couples like you to help you bring your vision to life.

With a huge variety of props available to hire, we can cater for all wedding themes, styles and requirements.

From large items such as light up letters and flower arches, to smaller, intricate details including centre pieces, candle sticks and sashes; we have it covered!

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REAL WEDDINGS TIME TO CELEBRATE A DJ played a few fun games with guests to get the party started; this included a game of Mr & Mrs to give everyone a good laugh and test how well the pair knew each other. There were also a few giant games set outside with giant Jenga, four in a row and croquet – it was a hit with loved ones!

A few of the games from the DJ continued the fun evening; many guests had never heard of a few before. The kids and some adults were outside most of the day playing the games; the couple barely saw the children as they had so much fun!

MEMORABLE MOMENTS The couple had the best day ever and didn’t stop smiling to the point where their face hurt. Reece loved every second of it; the pair stayed together as much as possible so they had the same memories and had fun together. Eleanor says, “We did a first look, which was a special moment for us right at the beginning of the day. That moment alone before the ceremony, calming each other’s nerves and sharing the excitement that we would be husband and wife in the next hour was amazing! Walking into the marquee for the wedding breakfast and seeing our loved ones so happy for us was lovely too.”

A funny moment from the wedding was Reece and his two best men standing in the courtyard in the morning just in their personalised boxers for a photo – it was pretty comical! During the best man’s speech as well, they rolled out a projector and told a story that involved a video of Reece’s naked bum being shown to the whole room!

All the suppliers were excellent the whole day, especially the venue owner, who kept the day running smoothly behind the scenes. Andrew took lovely candid photos and videos for the pair to reflect on. The bride comments, “Our photographers were incredible too and captured the day beautifully from start to finish. They worked hard to get us all the shots we requested; one of them was also the baker of our gorgeous cake!”

HONEYMOON The lovebirds went to the lake district for four nights to a lovely little lodge they had chosen together. It was in the middle of nowhere, and spending that quality time on their own in that little post-wedding bubble was magical. The bride recalls, “It rained the whole time we were away, so we didn’t do much other than chill in the hot tub. We did go out to a small aquarium and saw the cuttlefish being fed, which was very cool!”

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ELEANOR AND REECE’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK Venue, www.yeldersleyhall.co.uk | Photographer, www.portfoliophotographic.co.uk | Bride’s dress, Wed2B | Bridesmaids’ dresses, www.ever-pretty.co.uk | Groom’s suit, Next | Cake, www.redvelvetbakery.co.uk | Catering, https://christhechef.com | Wedding rings, https://aspirejewellery.co.uk | Personalised cake topper, www.artlockedesigns.co.uk | Evening sweet food, www.sweetafayre.co.uk | Caravan photo booth, https://vintage-booth.co.uk | Evening food, www.kkcatering.co.uk 30

NORWOOD PARK WEDDING & EVENTS VENUE

To see our upcoming Public events and Wedding Fairs scan the QR Code 01636 302099 www.norwoodpark.co.uk

Romance RUSTIC

David and Sophie’s wedding at Skylark Farm featured a beautiful colour scheme Images courtesy of Love Photography 13 Weddings

D

avid came back from university and met Sophie, who was working behind the bar in a local pub. A few weeks later, the pair bumped into each other and exchanged numbers – the rest is history! Fast forward time, David popped the question and the couple tied the knot on August 6th 2022. They planned the perfect day full of fun!

Here the groom shares details about their special day…

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REAL WEDDINGS

We liked Skylark Farm as we could host our ceremony and reception in one location. The beautiful outside area and layout meant ever ybody could be social on the grass. As the danc efloor was next to the bar, ever ybody stayed in and around that area .

We gave guests key-shaped bottle opener keyrings for favours.

Our table plan was made using wooden and flowers.

pallets decorated with vines

The centrepieces featured wooden block

s, floating candles, roses, and blossom trees.

Guests loved the three-tiered cake, which looked beautiful.

green calligraphy and featured a Our place names were written in sage floral desig n.

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a floral tie. We picked the light I wore a light grey three-piece suit with hot, but the shade matched the shade of grey as the weather was not only bridesmaids’ dresses perfectly.

The bride looked stunning in a Verona Couture dress with Elegance of Elena shoes!

Sophie was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen – I was overwhelmed and speechless when she walked down the aisle, she was a special kind of gorgeous on our wedding day.

The nerves started kicking in after getting ready. I prefer to avoid being the centre of attention; however, the feeling was incredible after the ceremony.

The photo booth was a definite hit with people getting together and having a dress-up.

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The beer pong and garden games creat

ed a good vibe.

REAL WEDDINGS

The ceremony and walking out together for the first time as a married couple stood out.

A great moment was surprising my frien d from Australia as one of our witnesses to sign our marr iage certificat e. He kept his cool in front of ever ybody at the ceremony, which brou ght many laughs.

Our guests made our wedding the best; ever yone was so happy to spend the day with us, and it could not have gone any better!

Sophie’s make-up artist and hairdresser made her feel amazing!

Our photog rapher, Estelle , was incredible and felt like a family friend. She was so easygoing, relatable and passionate about her job. She also took it upon herself to carry out cak e distribution!

The wedding party annd our parents were amazing throughout the whole experience.

Due to the unexpected and incredible surprise of the birth of our son, who was five months old on our wedding day, we had a lot going on that year!

So, the honeymoon is yet to take place, but we went to the peak district for a few days and went on some lovely walks. It was a very chilled weekend, which we both needed.

DAVID AND SOPHIE’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK Venue, www.skylarkfarm.co.uk/weddings-events | Photographer, www.facebook.com/lovephotography13weddings | Bride’s dress, www.facebook.com/VeronaCouture | Make-up, www.instagram.com/claudiasalarismakeup | Hair, www.instagram.com/katyruthweddinghair | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Wed2B | Groom’s suit, Next | Photo booth, www.1stclasswedding.co.uk | Venue styling, https://m.facebook.com/tietheknotnorthampton | Shoes, www.facebook.com/EleganceofElenaofficial | Pageboy suits, www.rococlothing.co.uk | Flowergirl dresses, https://ukflowergirlboutique.com | Blossom trees, www.theknot.com 35

NAT U R A L, R E L AX E D A N D F R I E N D LY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER Capturing the raw emotion and love of your special day.

WWW.LAURATRUEMANPHOTO.WIXSITE.COM Laura Trueman Photography lauratruemanphotographer 07956 211850

The most important day of your life... ...deserves a special setting – a location that’s not just out of the ordinary, but extraordinary.

That location is Kilworth House Hotel.

Kilworth House stands apart from the everyday world – a place of timeless warmth, elegance and gracious living set amid 38 acres of rolling parkland.

Poppy’s ice creams supplies award winning ice cream for your special event. Poppy’s ice creams covers Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland, but I’m happy to travel if your event is outside these areas!

Wedding Showcase 12pm – 3.30pm Sunday 14th January 2024

Service time is usually around 2 hours and includes a choice of 4 different flavours of ice cream or sorbet served either in a tub or waffle cone alongside a selection of delicious sauces and toppings.

Kilworth House Hotel, Lutterworth Road, North Kilworth, Leicestershire LE17 6JE Telephone: 01858 880058

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Poppy’s ice creams can cater for different dietary requirements serving plant based ice creams and sorbets.

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REAL WEDDINGS

GO FOR

Kilworth House Hotel provided the perfect setting for Steph and Howard’s wedding Images courtesy of Rachel Jones Photography

T

hese lovebirds worked at the same company but didn’t start chatting until Howard moved into the same block of flats as Steph.

After a few dates, the pair knew they had found their soul mate and the rest is history! Steph comments, “We managed to spend evenings chatting away, and there was never a lull in conversation.

From the beginning, we just got on really well!”

Howard took Steph away for a birthday trip to Lisbon in Portugal and booked a suite at The Corinthia. One night, he booked a private area in one of the hotel restaurants. What Steph thought was a pre-birthday dinner and drinks turned into a proposal – it was a complete surprise for her!

Here, the bride shares details about their special day...

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We aimed to have a venue with everything in one place, including overnight accommodation so guests didn’t need to worry about travelling on the day.

Howard had previously visited Kilworth House Hotel for a conference, so he suggested we go and visit – the beautiful house blew us away!

The fact we could have fireworks and an after-party in the cellar bar at the end of the night was perfect.

Kilworth House made our place names, which featured our guests’ food choices.

We incorporated roses throughout the day, including in the wedding breakfast centrepieces.

The venue provided three starters, three mains and three desserts for the wedding breakfast.

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We had a four-tiered cake with flowers cascading down the side.

REAL WEDDINGS

After the speeches, the property provided a gin bar in the courtyard while the evening entertainment was set up.

I wore Brea, an Essense of Australia dress! I wanted a classic style that would stay in fashion, and a bonus was the pockets. I finished the look with a floor-length pearl and crystal veil from Richard Designs.

I accessorised with a pearl necklace, earrings, and Charlotte Mills shoes with a silver sixpence inside!

The bridesmaids looked beautiful in floor-length dresses!

Howard wore a three-piece morning suit with a champagne tie and waistcoat. Our dads and the best man all wore the same.

We had two DJs to keep guests entertained, and there wasn’t a moment when the dancefloor wasn’t full.

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We had a photo booth with props for guests to take fun photos, one copy was stuck into our guestbook and they could take the other home.

It was the hottest day of the year on our wedding day; we were delighted the sun had come out to shine for us.

The fireworks were incredible! We asked for Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana to be played, and the display had been choreographed perfectly to match the song – it was a big hit with guests!

We had four guests who nearly didn’t make it! Two went to the wrong venue an hour and a half away, and two broke down 20 minutes away.

They ended up abandoning their car and managed to make it in time just before the ceremony started!

Howard was learning Italian, so we went to Tuscany where we enjoyed lots of food and wine!

STEPH AND HOWARD’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK Venue and catering, www.kilworthhouse.co.uk | Photographer, www.racheljonesphotography.co.uk | Bride’s dress and accessories , www.ivorywhitebridal.co.uk | Make-up, www.bleumakeup.co.uk | Hair, Chantelle Hendley 07875 733 602 | Bridesmaids’ dresses, www.wed4less.co.uk/burton-upon-trent | Groom’s suit, Moss Bros. | Cake, www.melodycakes.co.uk | Flowers, www.jessicamaryflowers.co.uk Piano, www.romantic-piano.co.uk | Entertainment, DJ Kris Faith Entertainment Services 07792 130 942 and www.cream-entertainments.com Fireworks, www.komodofireworks.com | Photo booth, www.boothco.uk | Chiavari chairs, www.stylish-weddings.co.uk | Seamstress, www.instagram.com/the_bridal_seamstress | Veil, www.richard-designs.com 40

Spaces to Say I do Set in the beautiful Nottinghamshire countryside within 26 acres of land, Eastwood Hall provides the perfect setting and backdrop for your wedding.

We have several packages available to suit your needs and are available for up to 250 guests. So, whether your wedding will be large or intimate, we have the perfect space for you. At Eastwood Hall, we truly believe that each wedding is special and unique

and we want your day to reflect this from the first to the last moment. Our trained wedding team will help with your arrangements and assist in ensuring your wedding day dreams come true.

Late availability offers for 2024 Wedding Fayre: Sunday 21st January For more information please call our wedding coordinator on 01773 532 500 or email eastwood.enquiries@thevenuescollection.co.uk

MANSFIELD ROAD, EASTWOOD NOTTINGHAM NG16 3SS

www.elenstudiophotography.com | elen.studio@gmail.com | 07733158177 | Instagram and Facebook @elenstudiophotography

Creative and stylish wedding photography and films: Award winning studio 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019.

SH SANDERS HIREWEAR

SUIT & KILT HIRE

BY APPOINTMENT Agent of Peter Posh & Cameron Ross FOR WEDDINGS, CORPORATE EVENTS, PROMS, GRADUATIONS, ROYAL ASCOT & MORE...

Formally Sanders Menswear.

Proud to be continuing the 90 year legacy of attention to detail & excellent, personalised customer service.

Contact Helen Kirk on 01773 712461 Email: info@sandershirewear.co.uk www.sandershirewear.co.uk @sandershirewear sanders_hirewear 1A BLUESPIRE HOUSE, COACH DRIVE, EASTWOOD, NG16 3DR

@hirewear

REGIONAL SHOOT

Just the TWO OF US This al fresco shoot featured modern and romantic touches to create the ultimate look Images courtesy of Sarah Carter Photography

T

he Grange in Lincolnshire provided a picture-perfect backdrop to this styled shoot. Rachel Bray Makeup Artistry pulled together a wonderful team of suppliers to create a romantic day nestled in the beautiful countryside. They produce a showstopping ceremony setting under a 300-year-old oak tree called William, followed by a luxury picnic for two paired with a vintage Morgan!

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REGIONAL SHOOT

DISCOVER THE TEAM INVOLVED Venue, https://thegrangeleverton.co.uk | Photographer, www.bellammebridal.co.uk | Dresses, www.bellamebridal.co.uk Make-up and shoot coordinator, www.rachelbraymakeupartistry.com | Hair, www.facebook.com/takemetothehideaway | Flowers, www.stephaniesflorist-bourne.co.uk | Stationery, www.loveflorastudio.co.uk | Picnic, www.facebook.com/luxeeventslincolnshire | Cigar/whiskey set up and sweetheart table, www.the blissfulbride.co.uk 45

PICKLEBERRY FLOWERS Wedding floristry and sustainable styling

We can create a spectacular displays to your requirements for amazing fireworks to celebrate your big day

LOW NOISE FIREWORKS TRADITIONAL FIREWORKS PYROMUSICAL DISPLAYS AND MORE...

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Call: 0800 118 2921 or email: enquiries@fireworkdisplay.co.uk

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REGIONAL SHOOT

RUSTIC ROMANCE

This autumnal-styled shoot was captured at Dronfield Hall Barn Images courtesy of Eve Hopkinson Photography

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livia Taylor has been the weddings and events manager at Dronfield Hall Barn since January this year and came from a previous role in venue styling. She loves to be creative and wanted to design a concept for the gallery that would complement the venue while appealing to those wanting a barn venue. Olivia pulled together a team of suppliers to bring her vision to life, and everything came together perfectly on the day. The warm and earthy colour scheme was highlighted throughout the florals, venue styling and wedding cake to create a cosy setting. The subtle boho elements in the macrame backdrop, hand-painted jacket and bridal gowns provided textures that brought the whole concept together.

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REGIONAL SHOOT

THE DREAM TEAM Venue, www.dronfieldhallbarn.org | Photographer, www.evehopkinsonphotgraphy.co.uk | Stationery and shoot coordinator, www.indigoandolive.co.uk | Dresses and accessories, www.theweddinghq.co.uk | Venue stylist, www.sarahbevents.co.uk | Hair, www.instagram.com/ssdronfield | Make-up, www.instagram.com/beautybylaurenrushin | Bridesmaids’ dresses, www.monamiebridedsmaid.co.uk | Cake, www.facebook.com/the.moonlight.baker.uk | Flowers, www.botanicalsfloristry.co.uk | Ribbons, www.laikstyle.etsy.com 49

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AUTHENTIC ITALIAN PIZZERIA FRESH Woodfired pizza in just 90 seconds.

Using quality ingredients coupled with fantastic customer service.

Biddulph’s pizzeria creates the best authentic Italian pizza experience outside of Italy.

Working with you to create a personal pizza menu.

5 STARS ALL THE WAY

Taste, Service, Friendliness, Quality

www.biddulphspizzeria.co.uk @Biddulphs.Pizzeria @biddulphspizzeria

Cornwall, a county of beauty and magic; a place of wedding dreams.

My Cornwall Wedding: Officially Yours - the only source of bespoke, legal, celebrant-led civil weddings in Cornwall.

www.cornwall.gov.uk/weddings | 0300 1234 181 | @MyCornwallWedding Image Credit: Thomas Frost Photography

C

What ’ s COOKING

CATERING

We delve into delicious food options for your big day

hoosing your big-day catering can be a difficult task; there’s a lot you need to consider from guests with food allergies to finding a cuisine that everyone will like. To help you decide, we’ve rounded up some popular and fun ideas to add the wow factor to your wedding.

DINE LIKE ROYALTY Serving an afternoon tea after the ceremony is an indulgent treat for guests. It’s the perfect way to inject extra fun into your day with finger sandwiches and tasty bite-sized delicacies.

ICE CREAM Perfect for summer weddings, ice cream trucks or bikes are a great alternative to traditional desserts with various flavours and toppings – it’s also great at cooling guests down.

DOUGHNUT LOVERS There’s a reason doughnut walls have been so popular at weddings over the last few years. Adults and children alike will go crazy for the tasty treats that will look fantastic displayed in you venue.

RAISE A GLASS Outdoor mobile bars are popular for al fresco weddings during the summer months. With many different styles available, you will find a bar matching your wedding theme and favourite drink options.

You could even create a personalised cocktail to give your day a personal touch. To add some entertainment for guests, why not host a cocktail masterclass?

SNACK TIME! One trend that has really kicked off over the last year is a grazing platter with artisan cheeses, meats, nuts, fruits, crackers, breads and more. This option will be popular with loved ones and is a great way to encourage interaction between guests.

IN YOUR FAVOUR When it comes to wedding favours, there are plenty of options. Edible treats always go down well with popular options like personalised sweets, biscuits, chocolate lollipops and mini bottles of tipple.

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SUGAR RUSH Add an element of fun to your wedding with a cart full of your favourite treats. It will be a hit with those with a sweet tooth and will provide snacks throughout the reception for guests to enjoy!

ROASTING MEMORIES Adults and children alike will love watching their food being prepared right before their eyes. A hog roast is the perfect addition to evening receptions to stop guests from going hungry.

BOLD FLAVOURS Indian cuisine is perfect for couples who love spicy food. The concoction of rich flavours created using bold spices and varied regional cooking styles provide a mouth-watering treat for guests.

TASTY CANAPÉS These are a great alternative to a starter and would suit a formal affair perfectly. These bite-sized treats allow guests to try multiple options while socialising with loved ones.

FISH AND CHIPS Stay close to your English routes with the classic fish and chips, which has been around since the 1860s and is ideal for more relaxed nuptials.

CANDY FLOSS Try and think outside of the box and go for something different, such as a candy floss machine, it’s sure to please guests of all ages. It’s the perfect addition to al fresco celebrations and will make fun props for pictures.

HOT CHOCOLATE CART Why not warm up your guests with a hot chocolate station for those colder months? Take it to the next level with marshmallows, chocolate flakes, whipped cream and different flavoured syrups.

CARVERY The idea of a wedding carvery fills us with joy! Everyone will be delighted by a roast dinner and you also have that added element of interaction and entertainment as designated guests carve at the table in chef’s hat and pinny. This is especially exciting for winter or Christmas nuptials.

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A

Local inspiration

CATERING

fter deciding the perfect catering options for your big day, it’s time to search for local companies who can bring your vision to life. Here are a few talented companies who would be honoured to be a part of the big day.

MRS B’S CATERING Eight years ago, Nicola (Mrs B) started the company to supply delicious, homemade and high-quality lunches to local businesses. The company started in her family home and quickly grew to a purpose-built premises, allowing her to increase the team and workload. Nicola then added private events, weddings, and conferences to the services offered. The company is now established as one of the leading suppliers in the area with a wealth of experience in different events, especially weddings.

The team offers a range of three-course dinners, canapés, bowl food, hot buffets and much more, as well as a bar service with ranges from wine lists to bespoke cocktail menus. The team can even bring custom-designed bars to match different themes.

For those after a horsebox serving food or a hog roast in the evening, the company can cater for these services.

Nicola aims to establish the business as the market leader and continue to provide high-quality events throughout the Midlands for special events.

Discover more about the company: www.mrsbcatering.co.uk

WOOD FIRED PIZZA SHACK Tie the knot with a distinctive flair as Wood Fired Pizza Shack delivers artisan pizzas to your wedding venue. The mobile company, boasting eight years of expertise, infuses your special day with an authentic and rustic charm. Owners Jonathan and Toby Ginger say, “From the inception of our journey, our mission has been to elevate celebrations with our passion for exquisite pizza. Our warm, personal service and the visual allure of traditional wood-fired ovens create a culinary spectacle for guests. Each thin crust pizza is a masterpiece, crafted before your eyes. promising a meal and a feast for all the senses.”

The pair’s values of passion, loyalty, and inclusivity are the ingredients of their success. They’re committed to enhancing your big day, offering a menu welcoming to all with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

It’s not just about food; it’s about fostering connections and building memories, underscored by their dedication to local sourcing and community support.

Wood Fired Pizza Shack is poised to make your wedding unforgettable with its picturesque shack and friendly chefs. Invite the team to your story for a shared joy and culinary delight celebration. Contact the team for a free quote, and let them sprinkle your day with the essence of togetherness – one pizza slice at a time.

Discover more about the company: www.woodfiredpizzashack.com

CITREUS CATERING This East Midlands-based professional catering company has more than 60 years of experience, combining the talents of Tim Carr and Craig Floate. The chefs developed a love for food at an early age, and they created modern and traditional dishes that inspire and satisfy the senses. Various local and international ingredients are used to bring cultures alive with intense, aromatic flavours. The team can tailor-make meals to suit any taste and occasion by putting their own spin on classic dishes – they have a love for good food and memorable events. The history and culture of gastronomy are at their fingertips to provide guests with an unforgettable culinary experience.

In a world of accessible international cuisines and multicultural influences, the pair owe their skills to those who played a fundamental role in developing classic cuisines and the art of catering.

From intimate gatherings to elaborate feasts, their multi-layered approach and embraced trends are in the context of dishes. Their cooking reflects customs of age and present-day eating habits and preferences. With an uncompromising approach to quality, Citreus Catering is the perfect accompaniment to your wedding day.

Discover more about the company: www.citreuscatering.co.uk 53

9-carat white gold diamond necklace, £375, www.ernestjones.co.uk Sterling silver and white zirconia earrings, £215, https://sifjakobs.uk

Pearl hoop earrings, £90, https://graceloveslace.co.uk

Sterling silver initial necklace, £79, https://chlobo.co.uk

Party

14-carat white gold coronet ring, £840, www.dowerandhall.com

PIECES

Satin jewelled bag, £36, www3.next.co.uk

Dazzle at a Christmas or winter wedding in stunning silver and crystal accessories Silver and white topaz bracelet, £170, https://vbylauravann.com

Sterling silver personalised bracelet, £59, www.mercimamanboutique.com/en

Hollywood earrings, £145, https://victoriapercival.com Aphrodite halo headband, £1200, https://victoriapercival.com

Aurora halo headband, £425, https://victoriapercival.com

Silver mirror headband, £34, www.busbyandfox.com 54

Crystal and velvet hair bow, £24, www.braidandbow.com

Great gift idea

Silver-plated bracelet, £17.99, https://jomajewellery.com

Neck candy

FASHION

www.ratherlovelyfilms.co.uk

This 100% silk scarf with a champagne print is perfect for the party season with prices from £45. To shop,visit www.corinnealexander.co.uk

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Mothers-of-the-bride will love this 100% silk scarf, £89, that’s fit for royalty! To shop, visit https://hortonsengland.co.uk

CHARLOTTE MILLS LAUNCHES NEW-LOOK WEBSITE AND BRANDING Bridal shoe designer Charlotte Mills is excited to announce her updated branding and new website which includes an interactive size guide created to ensure the perfect fit. This follows in the footsteps of her first bridal occasion dress collection consisting of five sassy styles with more to be unveiled in the new year.

Whether shopping in-store or online, designer Charlotte wants every bride to have a magical experience. The eco-friendly packaging has been refreshed to include a hand-written note from the designer herself. To find out more and to shop, visit https://charlottemills.com

FASHION Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals the latest bridal news, buys and launches

Creative direction, shoes and dress, https://charlottemills.com; Photography, www.emmyshoots.com; Flowers, www.foxflora.co.uk; Venue, Howsham Hall, www.dine.co.uk/venues/howsham-hall/ weddings; Model, www.instagram.com/alannah_victor

Green hues

Shades of green are trending for winter weddings and this full-length forest green multiway gown is a must-have for bridesmaids, £65, www3.next.co.uk

EDITOR LOVES As a yoga fan, I love wearing my cobalt-blue eye jewellery so this solid gold Aura bracelet, £495 has been added to my wish list!

To shop, visit www.astleyclarke.com

PERFECT FIT Boosted, the inclusive and supportive breast tape and accessory brand that offers four signature colours to match every skin tone has just launched a white tape, especially for wedding dresses and outfits. To shop, visit https://boostedtape.com

Stepping out in style Club L London has recently unveiled a glamorous new shoe collection perfect for brides, mothers-of-the-bride and bridesmaids. The Stepping Out collection includes stilettos, on-trend platforms and even boots in bold colourways, from scarlet red and hot pink to black, navy and metallics.

Embellished details include ankle straps, feathered pom poms and oversized brooches. To shop, visit https://clubllondon.com

focus

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend Pandora has recently launched a lab-grown diamond collection of more than 50 dazzling designs, all hand-crafted from 100% recycled silver and gold and created using 100% renewable energy. Designs include pendants featuring romantic hearts, stars and horseshoes plus bezel-set trilogy bracelets, necklaces and rings (pictured).

Carat sizes range from 0.15 to 1.75 carats, with prices starting from just £225, https://uk.pandora.net/en

SOMETHING BLUE This blue ruffle gown, £110, is perfect for bridesmaids and guests this season, www.forevernewclothing.com/uk/new-in 55

A touch

OF COLOUR Winter isn’t about wearing a white wedding dress, pick a fruit-pastel inspired shade or something a little bolder

Accessorize with a coloured veil, www.reemacra.com 56

FASHION

Pick pretty pastel-coloured floral prints, https://clairepettibone.com

Something blue is always in fashion, https://inesdisanto.com

Bright and beautiful, https://madilane.com at Bridal Week Harrogate

Add a hint of pink with a cute bridal belt, www.alexandragrecco.com

Be beautiful in blush, https://uk.dessy.com

Choose a bold scarlet floral print, www.thereformation.com

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Peachy pink, http://foxbridal.com.au at Bridal Week Harrogate

Going for green, www.hermionedepaula.com

Add a pop of colour with lilac touches, www.madelinegardnernewyork.com/en

A champagne-coloured underlay adds a subtle touch of colour, www.eseazenabor.com

Ombre shades of peach are the new grey, www.kellyfaetanini.com

Soft pink hues are perfect for the day and the dancefloor, Marchesa by www.pronovias.com/gb

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FASHION

IN VOGUE

These model looks showcase the hottest bridal trends for 2024, with delicate details, texture takeovers and playful shorter styles

Clean lines by www.kellyfaetanini.com 59

Beautiful ballgowns by www.madelinegardnernewyork.com/en

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Corsetry by www.thereformation.com 60

Short and sassy by https://charlottemills.com

Frivolous frills by www.sophiatolli.com at Bridal Week Harrogate

FASHION

A short jumpsuit by www.rosaclara.es/en

Long sleeves by www.savannahmiller.com

Bridal coats by Marchesa for www.pronovias.com/gb 61

Strappy styles by www.alexandragrecco.com

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Thigh-high splits by www.airebarcelona.com/en-gb 62

Detachable sleeves by www.andreahawkes.co.uk

FASHION

Button-down back by https://graceloveslace.co.uk

Bespoke bridal pet accessories by www.hermionedepaula.com

Liquid satin that will never date by www.katherinetash.com 63

Beauty queen

We chat to Hannah Martin about her new book, Makeup, and all things bridal beauty

H

annah Martin is a world-class make-up artist to the stars and one of the most respected professionals in the industry. With 15 years experience, she works her magic everywhere from catwalks to masterclasses, as well as creating looks for industry giants such as L’Oréal Paris, Clé de Peau Beauté and SpaceNK. In February 2020, she joined Channel 5’s revamped 10 Years Younger in 10 Days as its resident beauty expert, where her life-changing makeovers were an instant hit with audiences. A YouTube sensation with more than four million views, Vogue hailed her the queen of radiant skin and smoky eye tutorials while her social channels are a treasure trove of easy make-up tips and tutorials for novices and seasoned professionals alike.

Now, Hannah shares her expertise in a new must-have book: Makeup.

CWM beauty editor Kelly Andrews caught up with her at the time of its launch to tap into her wealth of knowledge on bridal beauty and skin prep know-how.

Congratulations on the launch of your book. What can you tell us about it?

Thank you! I’ve always been passionate about helping people do their make-up and understand how products work and how to master different application techniques so it was the logical next step to put everything I’ve learnt over the last 20 years onto paper, creating a resource people can either read from cover to cover or dip in and out of as and when they want to. I hope the result is an easy-to-read guide for those interested in make-up.

Some of the work you’re most famous for is creating flawless bridal make-up for Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice. Are there any elements of these royal looks that our brides could apply to their own for the big day?

I want to help all my brides achieve a beautiful make-up look that will last all day and make them feel amazing. I’ve mainly worked on the basis that bridal make-up should be timeless and not dated by trends. I suppose the looks I’m best known for are more on the natural side but I have a little secret: natural make-up doesn’t mean minimal, it’s just make-up that allows a person’s natural beauty to shine through. It means a sheer base so you can see your skin, eye make-up that frames without overwhelming, and lip and cheek colours that enhance the tones naturally present in the skin.

Brides need their make-up to last all day. How can they make sure it doesn’t slide of their faces by the speeches?

It starts at skin care. I love rich plumping moisturisers but on a wedding day it’s advisable to use light layers of water-based hydration so your skin is moisturised but not slippery, meaning products have a better grip.

Light layers of concealer and foundation worked in well lasts significantly better than thick layers, and setting powder is essential. I know a lot of brides don’t like to use powder but a little under the eyes, around the nose and chin will lock the base in place before you finish with a spritz of a setting spray. Powder applied with a brush will set lightly, powder applied with a sponge or puff will set even more effectively. Just be sure to use a setting spray that’s made for longevity and not for rehydration because you could inadvertently be adding more moisture, which won’t help it to stay put.

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There’s an emerging trend for brides to switch up their attire from daytime to evening bash. Can this be applied to make-up too and how can they transform to a party look quickly and easily?

I love this trend but I do remind brides that it’s the one day to be as present as possible and not spend all day in the make-up chair, so I like to suggest quick and easy tweaks. The easiest after a quick base touch up is to add a bold lip. A bright red is so fun for brides who like the idea of the impact but don’t want to wear red all day or for the all important first kiss. My other go-to is a smoky eye. The addition of a darker shadow all over the lid and up through the crease with a sparkle shadow pressed on top makes for the most beautiful soft, smoky eye that shouldn’t take longer than about half an hour. I usually do this while the hair stylist redoes the hair.

INTERVIEW

How can our readers ensure their skin is in tip top shape providing the perfect canvas for their W-day make-up artist?

The best thing you can do is drink water! Yes cleansing and exfoliating are extremely important but being really well hydrated from the inside out can make a whole world of difference to the skin. I also advise my brides to go easy on the sugar intake in the week leading up to the wedding and to avoid excessively salty food the night before, as this can result in puffiness and water retention on the big day.

What I strenuously suggest brides don’t do is try facials or treatments before the wedding that they’ve never tried before. So many times I’ve been confronted with brides who have either had a reaction or their skin has broken out as a result of a treatment they’ve not had before. If you’re in the habit of having facials then by all means continue but don’t have one, or indeed any other new treatment right before the wedding, if you’ve never done so before, as they could have a negative impact on your skin.

In your new book you talk about the tools needed for the job. Is there a set of basics that we should all have in our make-up bags?

Tools are key when it comes to make-up application. I’m an avid believer in using your fingers if you’re happy to do so but if not then decent brushes make all the difference. It’s a bit like cooking: chopping an onion with a bent, blunt knife is a real challenge but like slicing butter if you have a good quality kitchen knife. The same goes for make-up brushes.

As a make-up artist I own hundreds but not everyone needs that many.

A base brush for all cream and liquid products (like skincare, foundation, cream bronzer, cream blush); a powder brush (for powder, blusher and bronzer); an angled brush (for eyeliner and eyebrows); and a classic eyeshadow brush are the key essentials along with a decent eyelash curler.

A smoky eye is one of your trademarks. How can this be adapted to suit a bridal look?

When I create a smoky eye for a bride I tend to keep the shades I use a little softer than I would for a red carpet moment just to ensure the eyes aren’t lost in too much darkness. I’m obsessed with soft bronze shadows all over the lid with dark brown kohl smudged along the lash line and a few lashes added for a little extra lash density. If bronze isn’t your tone then any muted shade like grey, heather, mink, mocha, mushroom are all gorgeous for a soft smoky eye.

What is it that makes you so passionate about make-up and skincare?

I’ve always loved the creativity and art of make-up. I never tire of trying new products and experimenting with trends but as I’ve gotten older I’ve realised that actually what I love most about my job is helping other people feel good about themselves. I’ve had the privilege of seeing complete transformations with clients over the years, there’s something so magical about lavishing someone with your time, care, attention and artistry and seeing someone morph from shy, reserved and lacking in energy to beaming with confidence thanks to liking what they see in the mirror. I can assure you the make-up itself is only partly responsible for the transformation, it’s more about the personal connection made between artist and client.

What’s been your career highlight so far?

I’ve been lucky enough to have many but one of my greatest accomplishments is my book, Makeup. I’m not an academic and writing has never come easy. In fact I gave up on my dissertation at university because it was all together too much for me, and I ended up getting a diploma instead of a degree. So, to think almost 20 years later I managed to get my words out and actually wrote a book, a book that was number two in the Sunday Times best-seller list no less, is extraordinary to me.

What’s next for you?

Now that’s a question! I absolutely love what I do and I feel extremely grateful that that’s the case. I loved my time on 10 Years Younger so would always be open to another opportunity in TV but I’ve also loved working with brands on various product development moments and collaborations so I hope to do more of the same. I’d love my own brand one day but the market is so oversaturated at the moment so it won’t be any time soon.

Makeup by Hannah Martin is published

by HQ, Harper Collins. Available in hardback, £22, and in eBook and audio formats. You can follow Hannah on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ hannahmartinmakeup, and on YouTube at www.youtube.com/BBProHannahMartin

The lips are going to get a lot of attention on the big day! So, what do you suggest to make them perfectly kissable with colour that has staying power?

A gentle scrub is imperative the evening before the wedding or at least three hours prior (to allow for any redness to subside). A simple sugar scrub will gently exfoliate the lips so they feel soft and smooth allowing lip balm to absorb efficiently. More importantly lip products will sit seamlessly without any visible cracks or flakes.

Be sure to apply balm first thing in the morning as part of your cleansing routine to start the hydration process then again at the very start of your make-up application to make sure the lips are as soft as they can be. Blot away any excess before lipstick is applied. I prefer to line the lips first with long-wearing liners, then fill in with a long-wear liquid lipstick – I find sheer layers best for both comfort and wear. Then, for a soft finish, I press on a creamy lipstick and a tiny bit of gloss so the lips look full and plump. The liquid lipstick underneath acts as an insurance and the colour lasts for hours.

A touch-up kit is essential and I always suggest my brides remove all remnants of lip colour, apply some balm, blot, then reapply for the freshest look.

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A PRESSING PROBLEM

If you’re a beauty blender lover you’ll already know that cleaning them can be a challenge. However, most are made from non-biodegradable materials, so it’s sustainably important to persevere. Not only that, brace yourselves, Stylpro recently discovered that 34 per cent of make-up tools contained more bacteria than the average toilet brush!

Thankfully Stylpro has a solution to this grim problem, and it’s gone TikTok viral. The Squeeze Makeup Sponge Cleaner deep cleans your sponges in one minute, squeezing and spinning them until they sparkle. The kit includes everything you need to tackle the dirty work. £39.99, www.stylpro.co.uk

SOFT AND SUBTLE

The whole editorial team has fallen in love with GloWISH’s latest launch, Super Jelly Lip Balm. Infused with ingredients that leave lips glowing and healthy-looking, the lip jellies don’t just feel good on the lips, they truly care for them. We all know superfoods do wonders for our health and nourish the body from the inside out, which is why each jelly contains either blueberry, goji berry seed, matcha tea or coconut/MCT oils, which work together to provide hydration and give an antioxidant boost to help soften and smooth. We all adore the subtle flush of colour and gorgeous glow they leave behind. £18, www.sephora.co.uk

Beauty BUZZ

Get the look with the latest must-haves

NEW SEASON, NEW YOU

HAZY DAYS

Mystical Dream is a mesmerising new fragrance from Ghost reminiscent of a picture-perfect tropical sunset, which made me think it would be right up a honeymooner’s street! Opening with bursts of blackcurrants and sweet orange, the aroma is heightened by black pepper, before bringing you to its heart of jasmine and orange flower. With base notes of patchouli and vanilla, it’ll leave you feeling enveloped in a fruity and floral blanket. Belonging to the floral, amber, fruity fragrance family it boasts a warm, luxurious energy. £29, 30ml, www.theperfumeshop.com 66

Get the winter look with the latest additions to Barry M’s Chisel Cheeks family, the Cream & Powder Contour Duo (£9.99). Super-easy to use, simply blend the cream contour shades across the hollow parts of your face to sculpt, and add definition with the powder contour shade.

For even more control, use the new Precision Contour Stick (£6.99) to create definition under the cheekbones, temple and nose. Then, use the highlight shade to bring some brightness to the cheeks, forehead and chin for that perfectly sculpted look. You can shop the Chisel Cheeks range at https://barrym.com

SECRET SKINCARE WEAPON

Social media influencer Lucy Edwards stunned on her big day recently, and her make-up artist Kirsty Martin (www.instagram.com/kirstyemartinmua) revealed her skin-prep secret: iconic A-list favourite Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre Nourishing Moisturiser, which you can pick up at Boots for just £13.

A tube of this popular crème is bought every 13 seconds and leaves skin plump, feeling smooth, supple and toned; all thanks to a simple formula made with rich, natural ingredients. This multi-tasking moisturiser can even be used as a primer by day and cleanser by night.

SPELLBINDING

Nail guru Leighton Denny MBE has once again taken the beauty world by storm with the launch of his new, breathtaking Leighton Denny Super Wings Polish. As the latest, addition in the best-selling Wings Collection this beauty is totally mesmerising, adding a touch of enchantment to your fingertips. I love the idea of applying it as a top coat over your classic bridal French manicure to give it a gorgeous multidimensional rainbow effect, or wear over a darker base colour to create your own shade. £12.50, www.leightondenny.com

NATURE’S AROMA

Chandrika Thomas London is a distinguished luxury perfume brand renowned for its fragrances derived from the highest quality botanical ingredients. Each one is the epitome of pure opulence and elegance, taking you on a journey of sensory indulgence, the perfect candidates for your signature wedding day scent. What’s more, when you order a 100ml (£158) or 50ml (£99) perfume, you receive a complimentary 15ml gift, allowing you to explore the range further.

Divine scents include Allure Rose Blossom Oud; Grapefruit, Lavender and Sage; Early Grey and Jasmine; Thyme, Mandarin and Fig; and so many more. Check out www.chandrikathomas.co.uk

RADIANT BRIDE

Following Ekin-Su’s huge success surrounding her edit with BPerfect Cosmetics, Ekin and her team are back with a new product – the BPerfect X EkinSu Radiant Blush. Both a shimmer blush and highlight combined into a lightweight, buildable formula, with light-reflecting golden pigments, it’s infused with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and camellia oil, meaning it melts onto the skin for a sunkissed flush of colour. The vegan and cruelty-free formula can be used on the cheeks, temples, forehead and bridge of the nose for a radiant glow, and is suitable for all skin tones. £16.95, www.bperfectcosmetics.com

TURN UP THE GLOW

You may know MAC Cosmetics for its matte formula foundations, but now it’s time to turn up the glow! The brand’s new serumpowered foundation fuses the science of skincare with the power of make-up.

A medium buildable texture, it offers smoothing coverage and evens out skin tone without masking, providing 24hour hydration with lasting radiance.

Its 88 per cent serum-based formula combines 33 skincare ingredients, including a 10 per cent hyaluronic acid solution. Available in 56 shades, you’re bound to find your perfect match. £39, www.maccosmetics.co.uk

BEAUTY NEWS

FOREST FEELS

British fragrance maker Molton Brown has introduced its newest scent, Wild Mint & Lavandin – a fresh aromatic collection. Its creator senior perfumer Nathalie Koobus says, “I wanted to capture the forest walks in my home of Provence, where nature’s invigorating air of verdant herbaceous shrub is edged by purple fields of lavandin.” Instantly stimulating yet soothing, the gorgeous new collection includes an Eau de Parfum (£120, 100ml or £16, 7.5ml), an Eau de Toilette (£85, 100ml), and a Bath & Shower Gel (£25, 300ml). Check out www.moltonbrown.co.uk

BACK TO LIFE

Sand & Sky Tasmanian Spring Water Splash Serum is a powerful combination of Tasmanian spring water and sea kelp, providing your skin with an ultrahydrating formula to leave it smooth and radiant.

Enriched with essential minerals and a hyaluronic acid complex, it keeps your skin plump and soft, while protecting against inflammation and strengthening your skin barrier.

Blended with fermented sea kelp your once dull and lifeless skin is restored to health and youth. £39, www.facethefuture.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY FLAWLESS

Institut Esthederm Intensive Propolis+ Purifying Cleansing Gel with amino acids is an ideal solution for skin with blemishes and wrinkles as it targets both. This luxurious gel will gently, but efficiently cleanse the skin, helping to minimise imperfections, while providing soothing and long-lasting hydration. It’s been formulated with exclusive technologies and patented active ingredients. £30, www.lookfantastic.com 67

Well grounded If wedding planning stress is getting the better of you, take this time-out with Ground Wellbeing’s Peigin Crowley

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n award-winning spa consultant Peigin Crowley has spent more than 20 years crafting distinctive and transformative wellness products and treats for fivestar luxury properties. But in 2020, her attention shifted to the home. Experiencing the devastating impacts of stress, burnout, loss of identity and disconnection from the natural world, she embarked on a quest to create products and at-home rituals that could easily be incorporated into a daily self-care routine. Today her brand, Ground Wellbeing, continues to grow, focusing on craft and quality over quantity, sustainable business practices and the promotion of accessible and intuitive self-care for all.

Committed to the power of touch, the brand’s rituals are created by Peigin to deliver carefully developed massage treatments through her years of work as an aromatherapist, where she gained a deeper sense of empathy, compassion and understanding. She is also dedicated to addressing women’s health issues.

Here, Peigin tells us how to tackle wedding planning stress and build an effective self-care routine amidst a hectic schedule.

sure you’re both on the same page. Always remember the why – remind yourselves why you’re getting married in the first place. Focus on the love and commitment you share rather than getting lost in the details of the event.

TIME TO RECONNECT I think it’s really important to understand how we wake into the day, and how we go to sleep at night. Our first 10-15 minutes of the morning as we wake up into the day are crucial in terms of our attitude, intention and breathwork, as well as just being kind to ourselves. Likewise, at the end of the day, using aromatherapy products to help you slow down, helps invite sleep and gives you a moment to reconnect with yourself. So, those would be the two most important times of the day to remember to look after yourself, then you can build your self-care routine from there.

When we’re busy, we can tend to forget to look after ourselves.

We need to recognise the importance of self-care and make it a nonnegotiable part of our daily or weekly schedules. Understand that taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity.

BETTER TOGETHER The first thing to say is that it’s natural to be overwhelmed and stressed in the run up to your wedding. It’s a really important day and you want all your friends and family to enjoy it. Acknowledge these feelings with each other and book out time each week to go on a walk or do something together. Take some time out where you don’t speak about the wedding at all! Do something else to take your minds off it, relax and focus on each other.

Prioritise self-care routines individually and as a couple: go for a massage, have a treatment together, or just relax and de-stress. Even just running each other a bath and making sure you acknowledge the stress and really looking after each other is helpful.

Communication is key, so voice concerns with one another and make

WHY NOT TRY...

Ground Wellbeing Talamh Balancing Body Oil Increase mindfulness and help manage stress with this non-greasy, skin-softening blend of botanical oils. Infused with balancing extracts of frankincense and geranium bourbon, this thoughtful formula provides clarity and mental fortitude to steady the mind, paired with sweet orange to ignite the senses. Use whenever you need to instantly nourish skin and restore balance. It can also be applied to pulse points during the day or used to support breathwork.

Ground Wellbeing Beo Focus Spray Made using 100 per cent natural essential oils, sage and cedarwood boost concentration and memory to create an ideal environment for productivity and focus. Spritz on upholstery or clothing (not your wedding dress just in case) to add energy and focus to your day.

Find these products at more at www.groundwellbeing.com

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ASK THE EXPERTS

Fashion and beauty

Q&A Look the best version of you with our expert advice

www.gettyimages.co.uk

LIFT OFF My long hair is generally quite flat and lifeless, but I love the idea of wearing my hair down on my wedding day.

What can I do to give it more volume?

One of the easiest ways is to get some layers put in it. If you’ve got collarbone-length locks or longer, then longish layers are best with the shortest being chin or jaw length. This way, you take weight out of the hair but keep the length while creating body.

Having a fringe put in is also a great way of achieving more volume. Blow-drying your hair properly is a good idea too. So, dry using a small, round brush dry from roots upwards. People think a big brush is the best way to create body, but actually a smaller size is better as you can get right in at the root lifting from the scalp. Blow-drying hair with your head upside down is also a good trick. Remember, you’re trying to defy gravity, getting the hair away from the head. The MDLondon Blow with a large nozzle and a really good bristle brush will give you a fantastic blow-dry with flyaway- and frizz-free shine and lots of volume!

You’ll want to look for resin-based blow-dry products containing PDP VA core polymers such as mousse, blow-dry sprays, and hair protection sprays. These can go hard or a bit crispy but as long as you’re constantly moving the brush while you’re drying you’ll avoid the worst of this. But bear in mind that you do need some of that crunchiness as it’s this texture that supports the volume. I love a product called Sugarlift by Wella EIMI. Dry shampoos and dry texturising sprays are good at supporting volume too. I use Umberto Giannini Texture Boost on myself and on my clients. You can use it throughout the day, so if you feel your hair getting a bit flat, just flip your head forward and spray it in at the roots whenever you need to. Above all, you don’t want anything oily on the hair – no oils, no serums, nothing greasy as they’re heavy.

Another good method for creating body is adding waves. If you put a curling tong through sections of your hair it creates push against other sections and that in turn creates volume. But if you don’t put enough wave in at the roots the hair sits a bit flat, so make sure you concentrate the tongs at the root, which is where you want the lift.

On the big day, put medium velcro rollers in your hair and leave them while you have your make-up done. Try a bit of backcombing at the roots too, teasing the hair with a widetoothed comb.

Michael Douglas | MD London | https://mdlondon.co.uk

BRIDAL PREPARATIONS Our wedding is a few weeks away! Is there anything we need to keep in mind to ensure a stress-free wedding morning?

Firstly, ensure you care for yourself on the days leading up to the wedding. Avoid sitting in the sun and getting sunburn or bad tan lines, which will also really dry out your skin and even lead to peeling! Wear your shoes before the big day to soften them up and avoid painful blisters later.

Do as much prep as you can the night before, like hanging those beautiful dresses up high so they don’t crease and are all set for any snaps the photographer might want to get. During the morning, have scissors on hand as someone always needs a label, tag or ribbon cut out of something in a last-minute panic.

Avoid wearing bras, Apple Watches or anything that will leave indents on your skin that will be visible once your dress is on. It’s a great idea to wear a robe or shirt with buttons while getting ready rather than something you have to take off over your head that could potentially ruin your hair and make-up!

A crochet hook will be your best friend if you have lots of buttons to do up on your dress, as it can be a time saver to help with those fiddly loops.

Remember to take the flowers out of the water early so they don’t drip and make marks on the dresses! Plan to be in your gown about an hour before the ceremony to avoid the mad rush. Allow yourself plenty of time to soak up this quality time with loved ones, as it always goes quickly. Play your favourite music, pop the Prosecco, and soak up these special moments.

Emily Hughes | Serendipity Brides | https://serendipitybrides.co.uk 69

28-30 Abington Grove, Northampton, NN1 4QX Mon – Sat 10.00am – 5.00pm Tues 10.00am – 4.00pm

www.stunningbridal.co.uk 01604 792869

EVENT HIRE

For all your furniture hire needs

Wide variety of chairs and tables available, as well as love letters & flower walls.

Rebecca has been providing the sound track to many beautiful weddings for 7 years now, specialising in requests for couples’ Ceremonies and a well thought out playlists for the Drinks Reception.

She mainly goes out as a solo performer but a guitarist or a pianist can also be added.

We specialise in rustic, distressed tables, and rustic themed weddings.

Rebecca also runs a hugely successful wedding band called ‘Petite Rouge’. Fronted by herself and sometimes joined by a second singer, all the while making sure your dance floor is full!

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GET IN TOUCH TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION! www.rebeccacolesinger.com rebeccacole21@hotmail.co.uk rebeccacolesinger

EXPERT ADVICE

HOT TOPIC

https://bgsweddings.co.uk

Local experts offer stellar advice on wedding dilemmas

DRESSED TO IMPRESS We’re having a marquee wedding and would love ideas on how to style the space. What would you suggest?

Transforming a marquee into a well-decorated-styled space that has been thoroughly thought out for a wedding day is no easy task. The thought of decorating a blank canvas can overwhelm most; where do you begin?

Designing the space to feel full can be tricky, but you can make the impact you’re after with a few clever tricks.

Choosing a bold colour scheme for your marquee will make it feel more decorated. With so much white space going on, the idea is to distract the eye from all blank areas – using colour is a fantastic way of doing this. A warm colour palette will help add an inviting cosy vibe while lots of greenery would work well against the white canvas, creating a fresh oasis. Rich, darker tones can help your space feel smaller if you want to create a more intimate vibe.

Think big when considering how you’ll style your space. Using large décor items to fill your key areas will help the space come alive with little effort. Photo walls are great as they fill an empty marquee wall in seconds, providing an interactive and decorative space. A large backdrop behind your head table can help break up all that white

yourself – delegate tasks to your loved ones or wedding planner.

Create a high-level timeline of what needs doing and when to create a structure for your planning. Spread key tasks before your wedding and remember, you don’t need to do everything immediately.

Most of all, wedding planning should be fun! Celebrate your engagement, spend a weekend shopping for wedding outfits, and get your besties around for DIY activities.

Linzi Barford | that black & white cat weddings https://thatblackandwhitecat.co.uk space and create a focal point when you sit down for dinner. Hanging ceiling decorations in your marquee will make a dramatic difference to your venue.

The space would look more full and decorated. There are loads of ideas out there to choose from to help you create a statement from wooden ladders, seagrass lampshades, fun lighting or lines of bunting. Ceiling décor is a must-have if you want your space to feel fully styled to perfection!

Rea Shaw Confetti Sweethearts https://confettisweethearts.com www.sophiehaywardphotography.co.uk

A PERFECT DAY I’m feeling stressed and overwhelmed by the planning process.

What are your top tips for planning a stress-free wedding?

It is essential to take regular breaks away from the wedding planning; for example, book a spa day with your besties or go for a long walk – whatever helps you both relax.

Setting up a separate wedding email helps as it allows you to ‘turn off’ the wedmin when required and also separates it from day-to-day life reducing potential overwhelm. Do not feel you must do everything

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THE BRIDE TRIBE What advice can you share when it comes to bridal party gifts?

Choosing your bridal party is an essential part of your wedding planning, especially as these will be the people who stand beside you on one of the most important days of your life. You could give a gift to ask them to be at your bridal party or show them you appreciate them by saying thank you with a personalised bridesmaid gift. Either way, finding a gift as unique as the people in your party can be tricky! Choosing something personalised with a coin minted in their birth year can be a special and sentimental choice, or why not combine both of your birth years into one beautiful piece that they can cherish for years to come?

How much you spend on your bridal gifts depends on various things, like your overall wedding budget, how many people are in your bridal party and the type of gift you want to give. Consider a token gift for large bridal parties to show appreciation while decreasing costs. Alternatively, go all out and get your maid-of-honour, mother-of-the-bride, and bridesmaids an extravagant gift that you could only give at an occasion like a wedding.

There aren’t any rules regarding when, how or where you give your bridal party their gifts, but here are some ideas if you’re looking for inspiration. The wedding rehearsal is a great time to give your bridal party gifts, especially as it will be a run-through of the wedding day and will ensure you have enough time to show your appreciation, especially

as you’ll be so busy on your wedding day. It’s common to give gifts during speeches. It’s a great way to show how much they mean to you in front of all your family and friends, giving them some of your spotlight. If you’re getting your bridal party together before your wedding day, whether to ask them to be in your wedding party or to pick out dresses, giving your bridal party gifts at the same time can be a lovely addition to your celebrations.

Emma Pearson | Heads and Tails Jewellery www.headsandtailsjewellery.co.uk

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www.jasonwilliamsphotography.com

WINTER IS COMING What advice can you share when it comes to planning our winter wedding?

Ultimately, choosing a winter wedding allows you to create a unique and memorable celebration that reflects your love story in a distinctly different way from weddings held during other seasons. Here’s a guide to help you plan an memorable winter wedding!

•Send your save-thedates early: Winter is a busy time with holidays, so send your save-thedates well in advance to ensure your guests can plan accordingly.

•Embrace the season: Use the winter theme to your advantage. Incorporate seasonal elements like evergreen branches, pinecones and candles into your décor. Consider a colour scheme that complements the winter atmosphere, such as deep burgundy, forest green or icy blue and silver.

•Stay warm and cosy: Provide amenities like blankets and warm beverages for your guests.

•Dress accordingly: Choose a wedding dress that suits the season. Long sleeves, heavier fabric and faux fur wraps can be both practical and stylish.

Don’t forget to pick appropriate footwear!

•Plan for an early sunset: The days are shorter in winter, so plan your ceremony and important photographs accordingly to make the most of the natural light.

•Insurance: Consider wedding insurance. It can protect your investment in case of extreme weather or unforeseen circumstances.

•Plan your honeymoon: Winter is a great time to travel to certain destinations. Consider warm, tropical locations to contrast the winter theme of your wedding.

Emmie Ide | Stapleford Park Hotel | https://staplefordpark.com

BUDGET FRIENDLY We’re planning our wedding with a small budget; how can we keep the cost down?

There are many ways to keep costs minimal when organising your wedding day. Creating that special, memorable day doesn’t need to cost the earth to be stylish! Your standout venue decorations, gorgeous gowns, or guest entertainment can be purchased at lower costs, while still creating that amazing wedding everyone will discuss.

Items that may only be used for the event, such as lighting, cutlery, games and props can all be hired to stop you from overspending unnecessarily on pieces. After your big day, hand them back – it’s as easy as that!

Why not buy preloved? You can still get that designer wedding dress or those stunning floral bouquets you’ve always wanted if you just know where to look! Online marketplaces such as Sell My Wedding aim to provide a cost-effective, individual buying experience that ultimately results in your dream wedding day.

You’ll find everything from the dress, décor, designer and DIY pieces, saving you those all-important pennies!

Faye Winn | Sell My Wedding www.sellmywedding.co.uk

Emma Mumford - Northamptonshire Bridal Hair & Makeup Specialist Hair & Make-Up Specialist offering bespoke services for the Whimsical, Romantic bride. info@bespokebridalbyemma.co.uk @bespokebridalby_emma

Stylish weddings don’t need to cost the earth The UK’s original online marketplace for creative, stylish brides to buy and sell preloved wedding items, here you’ll find everything from the dress to the décor, from designer to DIY. Established in 2011, we’ve helped hundreds of brides recycle their weddings and buy preloved to make their budgets go even further. Shop for preloved, handmade and items to hire from the UK’s most fabulous brides and wedding businesses. www.sellmywedding.co.uk team@sellmywedding.co.uk

Bespoke Bridal by Emma

10% discount for any Photobooth/Magic Mirror bookings for 2023/2024 Here at Orchid Event Management, we pride ourselves in being able to source exactly what you need for your event to make it that little bit special.

Whether you need that unique space, delicious food, floral decorations, or live entertainment to dance the night away to, OEM has it all.

All types of Social and Corporate events catered for: Birthdays, Anniversaries, Wedding Receptions, Conferences, Company Presentations, School Proms, Charity Events etc.

We treat every event individually. From your initial enquiry, we work closely with you to develop more of an understanding of what you want to achieve.

OEM provide a Fully Insured, Helpful and Competitive Service. We use our wealth of experience and the strength or our supplier relationships to design and resource a solution that adds value within your budget.

www.orchideventmanagement.co.uk T : 0 1 8 3 2 7 3 5 9 7 0 | M : 0 7 9 3 6 6 6 7 6 4 5 | E : e n q u i r i e s @ o r c h i d e v e n t m a n a g e m e n t. c o . u k | ORCHID EVENT MANAGEMENT | 25 SACKVILLE STREET | THRAPSTON | NORTHANTS | NN14 4NZ

ENTERTAINMENT

Time to celebrate Keep loved ones entertained throughout the day with these talented businesses

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rom DJs and bands to string quartets and magicians, the East Midlands is full of talented individuals passionate about keeping guests entertained throughout weddings. Keeping loved ones engaged throughout the day is vital when creating memorable occasions, especially as weddings can be long occasions. So, we’ve hand-selected companies to help the search and get guests talking for years to come for all the right reasons! From the little ones to grandma, there’s something for all ages to enjoy!

ORIONTREE ALPACAS

www.smdphotography.co.uk

Everyone always remembers their wedding, but make it unforgettable for guests by surprising them with alpacas at your wedding!

The impeccably behaved animals at Oriontree Alpacas will delight everybody while providing them with photo opportunities and a distraction while you’re busy elsewhere. The team offers customisable packages to get you started but can cater for pretty much any idea, from simple photo stars to ring bearers – you name it! Chief alpaca cuddler Dani Kent says, “As a not-for-profit, you’ll find our prices are very

THE PIXIE BOOTH Capture memorable moments with The Pixie Booth, which offers alternative event options! The team has worked hard to transform a 1950s teardrop caravan called Pixie with a fully-fitted photo booth inside and striking retro looks on the outside to give your event that extra shine. The caravan rocks up to weddings and turns many heads! The sheer joy and laughter it creates are infectious; there’s never a dull moment when Pixie is about! Owner Becks Roberts says, “All you have to do is climb in with some awesome props and take home a photo strip to treasure forever!”

Pixie may look retro, but her tech skills certainly aren’t! One touch of the screen inside will start a countdown from 5 with a live view to ensure you look as fabulous as possible! It then automatically counts down for the rest of the photos, so no faffing with buttons or moving once you are poised and ready for the snaps! Once finished, it will automatically print your photos next to the free guest book, ready for your guests to stick in one copy and keep the other for themselves.

Discover more about the company: www.thepixiebooth.com

affordable and don’t include a ‘wedding premium’ – our prices are the same no matter the job.”

The team decided to share their love for animals by creating workshops and experiences that allow others to meet and learn about them. They operate as a not-for-profit, with every penny going back into the daily care and maintenance of the animals and farm.

Discover more about the company and cute alpacas: https://oriontree.uk/alpacas/alpacas-at-weddings

ORCHID EVENT MANAGEMENT Orchid Event Management (OEM) offers services to make your day extra special, from finding that unique space and delicious food to decorating the venue to suit themes as well as live entertainment for guests to dance the night away. The team provides these services not only themselves but also works with great preferred suppliers who go above and beyond to turn ideas into realities. Owner David Barratt says, “We pride ourselves on the service we offer; each enquiry is unique as each individual or couple has their own vision. We welcome pairs to get in touch for an informal chat to discuss ideas to see how we can help."

For those who require something different from having a regular DJ, the team offers numerous packages for those who prefer a DIY option. They can also provide the eye-catching magic selfie mirror photo booth that's a touch screen and fully interactive – perfect for those selfies with loved ones. Choose the ornate white, silver or the spotlight Hollywood glam frame. Or, the classic enclosed oval booth with a vintage chalkboardstyle skin is a great option that holds six to eight people at a time.

Discover more: www.orchideventmanagement.co.uk 75

RED HERRING EVENTS mother-in-law, we’re here to help.”

Here are some ideas the company has done in the past…

•A themed murder mystery evening the night before so all the relatives on both sides of the family get to know each other without struggling with small talk.

•DIY or fully event-managed murder mystery evenings for the hen and stag parties.

•Custom-written mini-murder mystery involving the bridal party as suspects to lighten up the wedding reception instead of the speeches.

•A small mystery to keep the kids entertained during the meal.

•A custom-written murder mystery to break the ice as everyone arrives at the wedding venue.

Discover more about the company: https://red-herring-events.com

https://foxmoonphotography.com

www.hannahshearmanphotography.co.uk

Whether you’re a bride or groom, the father-of-the-bride, the best man or the matron-of-honour – there’s so much to think about when it comes to a wedding. The biggest problem is often the seating plan, who gets on with who and those who don’t know anyone else. On top of this, it can be difficult to decide what to do the night before weddings with family or finiding fun alternatives to giving a speech. Fortunately, that’s where Red Herring Events comes in!

The team will create an exceptional event and are there to handle all murder mystery needs. Let them take the stress out of event planning and trust the party to the professionals.Director of events Joseph Parfrement Parkes says, “We’ve worked with a variety of wedding parties over the years, providing murderously great entertainment that fits around your plans. While we usually suggest it’s not a good idea to murder the

EMMA LANE DESIGNS If you’re looking for a wedding that’s fun and full of laughter, then why not incorporate some luxury garden games into your wedding day?

Emma Lane Designs offers many unique, handmade giant garden games that keep guests entertained throughout the day. Owner and director Emma says, “Stop guests from clockwatching and wondering when the food will be served and get their competitive sides flowing with a ring toss or perhaps a space hopper race is more their style? The games are beautifully presented, fitting perfectly with most wedding themes while adding extra decorative items to compliment the setup."

With a range of accessories and props to compliment the garden 76

games, you can be sure to find exactly what you're looking for. Let Emma create your perfect outdoor space for the wedding, party or special occasion. The company started out in the game hire business back in 2015, so the team has years of experience under their belt, so you can be sure that all entertainment needs are in good hands. The games are stylish and neutral, fitting in with any theme and adding that touch of luxury to the day. The hire of our games is usually for the entire day, so it’s a great entertainment option for filling those gaps and keeping guests both big and small having fun!

Discover more about the company: www.emmalanedesigns.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

STEALTH RACER of speed, acceleration and control through a force feedback steering wheel. Feel the rumble of the circuit through the authentic low racing seat. To personalise Stealth Racer to your wedding, why not add decals?

Choose what ever wording and font with something like ‘Mr and Mrs’ or ‘Just Married’ The team have strong customer service backgrounds so pride themselves on delivery a first class service for clients, as well as an awful lot of fun. They're experts in bringing people together, keeping the energy alive and making sure people are truly entertained.

Discover more about the company: https://stealthracer.co.uk

of people including some very well known names and celebrities. I'm thankful everyday for being able to do what I love with amazing people at amazing events."

Discover more about the company: www.looch.co.uk

www.facebook.com/WillHeyPhotography

LOOCH - MENTALIST & MIND READER Unlock the magic of Love with mind-blowing wedding entertainment!

Looch Mentalist & Mind Reader is an extraordinary wedding addition and will get guests talking. Based in Nottinghamshire, with over two decades of mesmerising experience, the renowned mentalist Looch is a seasoned professional who has left audiences spellbound at weddings across the UK. With a repertoire of awe-inspiring performances, choose between the captivating wedding show, a post-wedding breakfast delight or the enchanting mix-and-mingle act during your drinks reception.

Looch has earned accolades and five-star ratings, a testament to the unforgettable memories created for couples and guests. With a global reputation in the realm of mentalism, couples will receive an unparalleled, mind-bending experience.

With more 20 years experience performing and speaking, Looch is the perfect choice when creating amazing moments thart engage guests.

Looch says, "I perform throughout the UK and Europe, offering a range of different types of performances to suit any live event. I have been fortunate enough to travel the world and have performed for thousands

https://kirstyrockett.com

www.gracenicolephotography.com

Stealth Racer offers a full-size F1 racing simulator that adds the wow factor while entertaining guests at your wedding using the best technology! The pit crew runs on fun and offers a fantastic icebreaker between guests. Lap times are recorded on a Top Gear-style leaderboard, creating a fun but fierce competition between loved ones.

Everyone has fun when Stealth Racer is around, whether it’s the budding F1 or backseat drivers.

Hire starts from £900 and includes five hours of racing split over the wedding day indoors or outdoors. Incorporating authentic visuals through a wrap-around screen, loud racing sounds and a truly realistic sensation

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to kill

DRESSED Channel your inner James Bond with these black-tie options for the groom-to-be

Velvet Blazer, £99 Shirt & Bow Tie, £40 Tuxedo Trousers, £49 www.marksandspencer.com 78

GROOMS’ FASHION Vintage Italian White Gold Cufflinks, www.susannahlovis.com

Black Duchesse Satin Silk Bow Tie, £65, www.favourbrook.com Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Signature Band Ring, £350, www.tateossian.com

Black Hampton Shawl Lapel Wool Dinner Jacket, £790, www.favourbrook.com Men’s Black Leather Shoes, £39.99, www.tkmaxx.com

‘Deep Black’ Urushi Lacquer – Presage Craftsmanship Series, £1,500, www.seikoboutique.co.uk

Long Sleeve Slim Fit Poplin Shirt, £70, www.lyleandscott.com Burton Men’s Essential Tailored Waistcoat, £50.25, www.lovethesales.com

Pantherella Tailored Socks – Baffin, £37.50, www.pantherella.com

Classic Dan Leather Loafer, £210, www.sebago.co.uk

Black Velvet Cotton Single Breasted 4 Button Piped Waistcoat, £210, www.favourbrook.com

Performance Modern Fit Tuxedo Trousers, £158, www.reiss.com

Signature Octo Cufflinks in Rhodium Plated Silver, £379, www.tateossian.com 79

Mane ATTRACTION

Influencer Eyal Booker and his brother Ariel reveal their hair care tips for grooms-to-be

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odel, TV personality, and influencer Eyal Booker and his brother Ariel Booker have launched Wavy, the Everyday Curl Crème for men. Designed to maintain and enhance curls for all hair types, the everyday cream uses high-quality ingredients and lasts for up to 30 days when used daily.

Our grooms’ editor, Melissa Cullen, chatted with Eyal and Ariel to discuss male hair care and the next era of men’s grooming.

What do you suggest for grooms-to-be who are conscious about looking after their hair in the run-up to the big day?

Don’t do anything drastic or try a new barber or hairdresser; the key is to get your haircut a week or two before the wedding so that if anything goes wrong, there is still enough time for your hair to grow back to your preferred look. It’s important to communicate with your hairdresser about what it is you’re looking for, and then you can go in for a slight touch-up a couple days before the wedding.

People are becoming more conscious of their impact on the environment; how can we choose products that are environmentally friendly but still good for our hair?

Always look for brands that are making a conscious effort to be more sustainable. Looking at their packaging is crucial; find a brand that uses sustainable packaging and works towards an eco-friendly future. Most brands are making a conscious effort to be more sustainable and typically mention this on their websites.

How do you recommend styling my hair for the big day?

The big day is all about you looking and feeling your best. Go with whatever makes you feel most confident. Our recommendation is to go for a timeless style; your pictures are going to last a lifetime and will remind you of one of the best days of your life, so it’s important that you choose a style that you’re happy with.

What do you consider to be the biggest development in men’s hair in the past five years, and what do you think will be the next big trend?

We think it’s within the formulations that are being used. In the past couple of years, consumers have trusted brands, and they weren’t asking any questions. More recently, men have become more aware of the good and bad ingredients and, as such, are looking for them in the products they use. If a brand is quiet about their formulation and/or what they’re putting in their products, the likelihood is that their ingredients are probably not the best for your hair.

One in four men in their 30s experiences male pattern baldness. What tips or advice can you give to help men look after their hair and delay this onset?

We have noticed that a lot of this comes down to the lifestyle that men have. It’s crucial to make sure that your body is getting the vitamins and nutrients it needs, as this impacts how the body reacts to hair growth. We suggest that males experiencing baldness try taking supplements that strengthen their hair and help it grow back to its potential. This will slow down the balding

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process and give men a chance to keep their hair looking its best and, most importantly, feeling its best.

For more information about Wavy, visit www.feelwavy.com

GROOMS’ NEWS Alessandro Gasparini is a new luxury men’s footwear brand. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant culture, arts, and laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle, Alessandro Gasparini’s creations embody the essence of Italian craftsmanship. Collaborating with artisans from the north of Italy, known for their skill in creating fine leather goods, Alessandro Gasparini has crafted a collection that is both simple and sophisticated, suitable for any occasion.

Alessandro tells us: “At Alessandro Gasparini, we prioritise craftsmanship, quality, timeless style, and understated elegance. Each pair of shoes reflects our dedication to preserving the legacy of Italian craftsmanship while embracing individuality and inherent refinement.”

Discover more at www.alessandrogasparini.com

Grooms’ NEWS Grooms editor Melissa Cullen reveals the latest best buys and product launches

Tateossian has released two new cufflink sets.

The Ammonite Cufflinks are available in two limited edition styles. The first combines white mother of pearl and 18k rose gold-plated silver, and the second features a vibrant multi-coloured design paired with rhodiumplated silver.

The second new set, the Halo Cufflinks, are presented in two variations, each featuring a distinct coloured stone.

Prices range from £215 to £850. To find out more, visit www.tateossian.com KINRADEN, a Danish fine jewellery brand, has seen a significant increase in the demand for men’s luxury jewellery. The brand offers ethically handmade unisex gold and silver earrings, bracelets, cufflinks, and rings. To help keep up with the demand, the brand has increased its retail footprint and has begun stocking its products in stores in Germany, Seattle and China.

Visit www.kinraden.com to find out more.

Luxury watch brand Citizen has revealed a new design.

Nicknamed Tsuyosa by its Japanese fans, the new automatic watch is affordably priced at £299. Delivered in a versatile 40mm case, the sophisticated stainless steel watch has a seamlessly integrated matching bracelet which makes a strong impression. Underneath an anti-reflective sapphire crystal, the timepiece has a sunray green dial, a date window and silver details, which add to its classic aesthetic. Powered by an automatic movement and offering up to 50 metres of water resistance, the refined timepiece is perfect for special occasions and everyday wear.

Head over to www.citizenwatch.co.uk for more information.

Chatham has unveiled its Winter 2023 footwear collection. Inspired by Chatham’s love for the great outdoors, the new collection has been designed with the brand’s nautical roots and country lifestyle in mind. Marrying traditional craftsmanship with the finest materials and attention to detail, the latest range offers the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and Chatham’s signature style.

Phillip Marsh, Chatham’s managing director, said: “We are delighted to present our new premium footwear collection for the upcoming season.

Embracing autumnal trends and our commitment to the highest quality, comfort, and timeless designs, the Chatham team has meticulously handcrafted each stunning style in our new men’s and women’s Winter 2023 collection.”

Find out more at www.chatham.co.uk Strictly star Neil Jones has joined male beauty brand Shakeup as its first ambassador.

Shakeup was founded in 2020 by twin brothers Jake Xu and Jake Carnell-Xu. They were inspired by the massive rise in men’s beauty in Asia and the K-pop market.

With more men than ever branching out with their beauty routines, the duo created Shakeup to provide affordable, innovative, and solution-driven skincare and cosmetic products and are on a mission to normalise men wearing make-up.

Together, Shakeup and Neil have launched the new Age Def-Eye Instant Lifting Eye Cream. Combining caffeine, squalane, shea butter, and two revolutionary trademarked ingredients, it instantly tightens, refreshes, and revives tired-looking eyes, dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet.

Neil adds: “I’m really excited to be teaming up with Shakeup. Daily demands and hectic schedules can take their toll on my skin, but looking after it properly is crucial, especially in my line of work. I love Shakeup’s products; they give great results with minimal effort and are great value. A winning combination!”

Check out www.shakeupcosmetics.com for more information.

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HONEYMOON Travel editor Melissa Cullen reveals new openings and honeymoon essentials

BOTSWANA

SEYCHELLES

Hilton’s signature hotel brand is set to open its first resort in the Seychelles.

Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island lies just over 130 kilometres south of Mahé on a pristine atoll fringed by palm forests and protected by its own lagoon and coral reef. Much of Platte Island’s surrounding scenery remains untouched, meaning guests are likely to see native Hawksbill turtles, eagle rays, manta rays, and whale sharks.

The resort will be home to 50 seafront villas, all equipped with private pools and personal concierges.

For more information, visit www.hilton.com/en/brands/waldorf-astoria

Sitatunga Private Island is a new water-based safari camp in the upper reaches of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Built on a raised, wrap-around private deck, Sitatunga Private Island can accommodate four adults in two private suites. Constructed almost entirely of recycled materials, the camp offers couples a ‘slow safari’ that is as sustainable as it is luxurious. The suites come complete with an indoor lounge, bathrooms with baths and separate showers, a deck with outdoor lounging and seating areas, as well as a private pool with views over the lagoon.

Dereck Joubert, the CEO of Great Plains, tells us: “Sitatunga Private Island is unlike any other Great Plains property, pushing the ecodesign boundary in a remote region in Botswana whilst also offering the highest level of hospitality and accommodation. It is also one of the few locations in the world where one can still see sitatunga, the rare aquatic antelope. Head out on a boat to view elephants, crocodiles, and hippos all day, every day.”

Discover more about Sitatunga Private Island and its offerings at www.greatplainsconservation.com/safari/sitatunga-private-island

MYKONOS

Known for its blend of Cycladic charm and cosmopolitan energy, Mykonos entices couples with its turquoise waters and lively nightlife.

Conveniently located just a short drive from archaeological sites, Once in Mykonos is a luxury hotel with harbour restaurants close by where couples can sample fresh Mediterranean cuisine and relax on whitesand beaches.

Private cruises take guests around the island’s picturesque bays and hidden coves, as well as tours of neighbouring islands, Delos and Rhenia. The hotel can also arrange private sea excursions and scuba diving to see Greece’s diverse marine life and traces of the Greek and Roman empire’s ancient ruins underwater.

For those looking to relax at the hotel, Once in Mykonos offers a host of new wellness and spa activities, from relaxing sunset yoga sessions with qualified trainers to holistic rituals encompassing the latest technology.

Head over to www.onceinmykonos.com for more information.

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Margaritaville Beach Resort Cap Cana has been named the ‘Dominican Republic’s Leading Resort for 2023’ by the esteemed World Travel Awards. Situated on picturesque beaches, the resort is an all-inclusive destination featuring 516 rooms and 228 suites across 13 different room categories.

Daniel Cazarin, the general manager of Margaritaville Beach Resort Cap Cana, said: “We are honoured and humbled by this incredible recognition. Our sincere gratitude goes out to our team members and industry partners, whose unwavering support and best-in-class service have made this accomplishment possible. We look forward to continuing to provide unforgettable experiences at Margaritaville Beach Resort Cap Cana.”

Visit www.karismahotels.com/margaritaville-island-reserve-resorts to find out more.

HONEYMOON NEWS

BORDEAUX, FRANCE

Getty Images

Château Troplong Mondot, a wine estate and boutique hotel in Bordeaux, is celebrating 30 years of insecticide and herbicide-free cultivation. It has also transitioned to being fully ploughed by its 12 resident horses that roam the vineyard between March and November.

The Château’s luxury restaurant, Les Belles Perdrix, boasts seasonal menus that capitalise on the best picks from the garden and local suppliers. The restaurant has quickly become one of the most sought-after tables in the area and has been awarded both a Michelin Star and a Green Star in recognition of its sustainable methods. The owner’s compassion for the land is evident from the fascinating winemaking process through to the thoughtfully designed ecolo-chic rooms.

To find out more, visit www.troplong-mondot.com

NORWAY

Travel specialist Pelorus has announced a new culinary journey through Norway in partnership with 62Nord and SKANDL. Couples will have the opportunity to explore the very best of Norway’s landscape through exciting hands-on masterclasses led by chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants, sourcing the freshest of ingredients from in and around the stunning fjord. Guests will also try their hand at Nordic fishing, foraging, and food preparation techniques, including open-flame cooking, before resting their heads at one of 62Nord’s properties.

James Hagen, the founder and owner of SKANDL, comments: “The Nordics are synonymous with rugged nature, adventure, and pristine seasonal produce. The region has also given birth to what has become a culinary phenomenon with the new Nordic food movement. We hope that our guests will not only enjoy true Nordic hospitality, incredible cooking, and wild adventures, but will also have an experience that enriches their connection with food for years to come.”

The itinerary can be booked from March to November 2024. To see the full list of activities, head over to www.pelorusx.com/taste-for-adventure

FRENCH ALPS, FRANCE

Hôtel Le Coucou will reopen this December with an array of enhancements. From a new French-style bistro to upgraded chalet experiences, collaborations, and special holiday events, Le Coucou promises a truly unforgettable winter getaway in the heart of the French Alps.

To elevate the private chalet experience, Le Coucou will pamper guests with new beauty products and provide the opportunity to attend a master class with AIME founder Mathilde Lacombe, gaining insights into her skincare philosophy and products.

There are a wide range of activities beyond skiing and snowboarding, from snowshoe hiking and snowmobile adventures to dog or pony sledding, hot-air balloon rides, paragliding, and even snow yoga.

Visit www.lecoucoumeribel.com for more information.

ST LUCIA

Jade Mountain has announced a partnership with luxury suncare brand Saltee. The partnership will give guests the opportunity to try Saltee products, protect themselves from the radiant sun, and discover more about their skin’s health and what can be done to protect it in different situations.

Eleanor Allum, the head of partnerships and sales at Saltee, explains: “We are thrilled to be adding to the guests’ experience at Jade Mountain by surprising and delighting them with meaningful yet relevant SPF gifts on arrival. Forged on sustainable principles and being the most ocean-friendly sun care range, the synergy between the two partners couldn’t be more aligned.”

Check out www.jademountain.com and www.saltee.co.uk for more information.

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The Italian dream

Louise Prance enjoys her inaugural visit to Italy, discovering the delights of Sardinia with a stay at the impressive Forte Village

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or many, when you think ‘honeymoon’ you think white sands, clear seas, sunshine and an abundance of rest and relaxation. But, if you’re anything like me, sometimes you need a little bit more – enter Forte Village, Sardinia.

A self-confessed travel addict with eternal wanderlust, I’m ashamed to say that my recent visit to Sardinia was my virgin voyage to Italy. And what an error or judgement that was. Just a hop, skip and a very short two-hour flight from the UK it was clear from touch down that Sardinia lived up to the Italian dream stereotype and then some.

on offer.

For me, the focus on health and fitness was an instant draw, there are, wait for it, a whopping 11 pools, a gym, tennis club – the resort offers exciting events such as lessons with tennis legends – football pitches, boxing arena and climbing wall – which induced a severe bout of FOMO from my climbing-obsessed partner back in the UK. If that’s not enough, there’s a plethora of fitness classes available in the ‘FIT-ZONE’ including the likes of HIIT and yoga.

RESPLENDENT IN ITS BEAUTY

The focus on fun doesn’t stop at the exercise offerings, with there being something for all the family. Heading off on a Familymoon? The kids club feels like a separate resort in itself with its own swimming pool, Mario’s Village and, my personal favourite, life-sized Barbie Dreamhouse. Fancy some family activities to enjoy together? The on-site Go Karting and Bowling tick that box nicely.

Those looking for the aforementioned honeymoon vision of sun, sea and sand would be hard pushed to beat this beautiful destination. Giving off Greek island vibes, Sardinia is resplendent in its beauty, with the softest white beaches, dream-like crystal clear oceans, and an impressive history – there are Roman ruins at archaeological site Nora and a network of underground grottos some 530 million years old at the Caves of Is Zuddas, to explore.

And of course, there’s the food. With Italy known for its cuisine, Sardinia didn’t disappoint, and neither did the culinary offerings at Forte Village – a resort set in a whopping 50 acres in the South of Sardinia.

FITNESS FIRST While of course exploring the island is a must-do recommendation, when you stay at Forte Village, you really won’t feel like you’ve missed out if you decide to stay put. Village by name, village by nature, the resort emulates a quintessential small Italian town, with residents getting around either by foot or on the quaint bikes provided, where the 21 restaurants (with three boasting Michelin stars) being just the beginning of what’s

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A FOCUS ON FUN

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own space, being just a stone’s throw from the white sandy beach and breakfast restaurant.

LOOKING FOR MORE?

Back to newlywed life, Forte Village’s spa is its shining glory. Loved by the Italian National Football Team, the Thalassotherapy Circuit was perhaps one of the most memorable spa experiences I’ve ever had. Offering six Thalasso pools, the circuit is designed to follow a pre-designed route to generate optimum health benefits. My personal favourite? Pool number one was a magnesium-heavy sea oil pool heated to a balmy 38c. Wearing an inflatable neck pillow you’re encouraged to simply float in the water, which is effortless thanks to the high salinity. I challenge anyone to leave the pool after the recommended 20 minutes feeling anything other than heavenly. The further five pools offer similar blissful experiences, which were only surpassed by the spa treatment I received after. The treatment rooms are set amongst the trees in a private tropical garden, with floor-to-ceiling (one-way) windows providing an awe-inspiring setting. My full body mud treatment left me feeling rejuvenated and relaxed, ready to take on another day in paradise.

For me, a getaway is not complete without a water-based excursion, and Sardinia offers ocean activities galore. However, always up for trying something new, I jumped at the chance to be taken out on a Jeep safari up the Monte Santo di Pula. Led by a knowledgeable guide, we bumped our way to the top of the mountain to take in some wow-factor views.

We were then met by local Shephard Roberto, who did a demonstration under the forest canopy of how his family continue to make pecorino the traditional way. Coupled with some delicious red wine and authentic Italian fare, it was a memorable experience.

It’s safe to say that Italy didn’t disappoint, with the Sardinian town of Cagliari being a wonderful final destination to explore. And while it may have been my first venture to the country, it certainly won’t be my last.

Intoxicated by the setting, people, food and culture, Sardinia, and Forte Village, is a destination that should rank highly on your honeymoon shortlist.

DOWN TIME The endless fitness, spa, food and activity choices aren’t the only things you’ll no doubt have the pleasure of deciding upon at Forte Village, with the accommodation options as wonderfully expansive as the rest of the resort offerings. There are a selection of hotels, suites and bungalows dotted around, each with their own restaurant and pool. The decision between beach front, private garden, terrace, or balcony is where the difficulty will end, with each choice being as decadent as the next.

My private garden bungalow was the perfect place to relax in my

BOOK IT! Forte Village S.S. 195 Km.39.600 (09050) Pula Cagliari, Sardegna T: +44 (0)709218818 @fortevillage

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An iconic ISLAND

A honeymooners’ paradise, Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Montego Bay have it all

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et yourself be carried away by the relaxed Jamaican atmosphere wherever you are; whether you’re enjoying a swim in the warm waters of the Caribbean, sipping on a piña colada in a crystal-clear pool, or on an outing exploring breathtaking mountains and blue lagoons — get ready to enter a state of absolute bliss.

Together with Dominican Republic, Haiti, Puerto Rico and Cuba, Jamaica is one of the five countries that form the Greater Antilles archipelago in the Caribbean Sea. An island overflowing with colour and energy, this unique and diverse country has a pace and power, a passion and beauty that make it an unforgettable honeymoon destination.

Along with its many natural wonders, the heart of Jamaica is its people and when visiting this ultra-hospitable country, you’ll encounter friendly, joyful faces and a vibrant energy familiar across the planet.

DON’T WORRY, BE HAPPY YOU’RE IN PARADISE Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts presents itself in Lucea Montego Bay, on the northwest coast of the country, with a 9.5-hectare resort comprising Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa. The Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa is a refined five-star hotel with access to four dream beaches, as well as a large wellness area and several family and adult-only pools. It boasts eight extraordinary à la carte restaurants complementing the wide range of bars in the lively area in which it’s located.

Across the other side of the resort is the Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa; located on a stunning Jamaican beach, positioned between two of the island’s most popular cities just a few minutes from the hotel. Its exceptional five-star service and beautiful tropical environment make it perfect for a Caribbean vacation.

Both hotels comprise a total of 1,054 rooms of varying categories and with different features from Superior Junior Suites with private pools and ocean views to Junior Suites with garden views; and, for the ultimate accommodation perfect for honeymooners, the adults-only Romance Villas overlook the tropical surroundings with views of the ocean and boast king size bed, hydromassage tub, private entrance, walk-in closet, and furnished balcony with outdoor shower.

MUCH-NEEDED YOU TIME For the ultimate in post-wedding relaxation, the resort offers the luxurious Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness centre. Couples can relax to the sound of reggae on its comfy Balinese beds or try its hydrotherapy area with steam bath, hot and cold water hydromassage tubs, dry sauna, Turkish bath, foot bath, water slides, swimming pool, and relaxation area.

While you’re there, you can also indulge in exclusive spa treatments, massages and beauty treatments in the salon. Should you want a work out on your honeymoon – no judgement here – the resort’s gym boasts modern, extensive facilities, locker rooms, and one of the largest swimming pools in the Caribbean.

When dining at the resort, guests can choose from 11 restaurants and 86

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15 themed bars including swim-up and beach bars. Awaken your taste buds with gourmet cuisine or explore world flavours with its specialist Japanse offering; perhaps steak is your go-to so check out El Dorado steak house or keep it local with Jamaican restaurant Xaymaica.

For entertainment, guests can enjoy various options for all ages: relax in four swimming pools including a special pool for children, there’s direct access to the beach with water sports and activities on offer, and there are countless excursions to the main tourist attractions. The hotels boast programs filled with activities and games for the entire family; with the help of professionals POP Entertainment the little ones will be in safe hands; there are live shows during the day and at night, including the participation of the Pop Gang, which is sure to surprise young guests.

SEE & DO CHUKKA ADVENTURES Saddle up and get acquainted with your new hoofed friend for a unique and unforgettable horse-riding adventure. Or ride up mountain terrain with spectacular ocean vistas on an ATV. Journey through Jamaica’s back-country and pass through farmlands. At the seashore, try swimming on horseback, then power snorkel on an exciting catamaran cruise where undersea creatures will greet you with a glowing bright smile. Locations in Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, and Falmouth.

DOLPHIN COVE Dolphin Cove is Jamaica’s number one attraction, offering fun for all ages. Dolphins, sharks, stingrays, glass-bottom boats, pirates, and parrots are just some of the many things you can see and experience here. It has two locations in Jamaica – Ocho Rios and Montego Bay – where you can watch and interact with dolphins and many other beautiful animals.

RAFTING ON THE MARTHA BRAE Board one of the bamboo rafts at Rafting on the Martha Brae and gently float down a five-kilometer (three-mile) calm stretch of river just a few miles inland from the historic town of Falmouth. The trip lasts just over an hour and each raft accommodates two adults and up to two small children, with passengers sitting on a throne adorned with colorful flowers. The experience has attracted a number of famous figures over the years, including Queen Elizabeth II, Spike Lee, Kenny Rodgers, Johnny Cash, and Usain Bolt.

IN THE KNOW 1. Jerk meat is a delicious Jamaican national dish with Spanish influences.

2. The photogenic, azure-colored Blue Hole natural swimming pool is fed by beautiful waterfalls.

3. Rick’s Cafe is one of the most vibrant spots to enjoy the sunset on the island.

4. You’ll feel like you’ve arrived in paradise when you lay eyes on the beautiful beach at Frenchman’s Cove.

5. If you like reggae music, you can’t miss Kingston Dub Club on Sundays.

CONTACT Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa +876 619 0000 Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa +876 619 0000 www.palladiumhotelgroup.com/en 87

Rachel Westall experiences the stylish Retreat at Elcot Park - country-house comfort at its best

www.astridtemplier.com 88

wine list will ensure you’re well refreshed. As I visited on a Sunday, Yu, the Retreat’s pan-Asian restaurant wasn’t open, but I’ll definitely be back to experience the Japanese fine dining establishment with a reputation not to be ignored!

I finished my stay with a full body ‘Made for You’ massage at the Signet Spa. My therapist was able to locate and relax my pressure points leaving me recharged and well cared for. Utter bliss.

www.astridtemplier.com

tep into luxury at The Retreat, Elcot Park. Since its grand opening in June 2022 it has won many accolades including Britain’s Best Hotel

by The Times and the Sunday Times, topping their list of the Top 100 Places to Stay in the UK. So, it was only right for us to check it out for our couples.

Located between Newbury and Hungerford, this 18th-century country house hotel & spa is the perfect spot to unwind pre- or post-wedding whether you want a cocktail aside the heated outdoor swimming pool; or are ready to don your hiking boots and clear your mind on the close-by North Wessex Downs.

You’re so warmly welcomed as soon as you enter the lobby lounge.

Waiting at the reception desk was a lovely couple sipping a glass of wine checking in – yes you get a glass of the good stuff on arrival - and who was at their feet but two four-legged friends. Living the life of Riley, these pampered pooches were also looking forward to their stay in one of the several dog-friendly rooms. They even get a doggie welcome pack on arrival!

With a crisp rosé in hand, I check into the Sutton Suite. An interior designer’s dream, sunlight pours into the room which overlooks the surrounding countryside. It’s warm and inviting with whimsy wallpaper, mix-match plush textiles and the prime centrepiece, the stunning copper roll top bath, is just waiting to be enjoyed. With a private mini bar, as well as raiding rights to the pantry (yes, there’s a pantry where you can help yourselves to snacks and drinks!), you’re guaranteed to switch off, unwind and feel truly spoilt.

When it comes to food and drink, 1772 Brasserie offers a fine choice of contemporary dishes for all tastes. I chose crispy chilli squid followed by Berkshire lamb rump, cooked to perfection. The impressive cocktail and

BOOK IT! The Retreat at Elcot Park, Newbury, West Berkshire, RG20 8NJ www.retreatelcotpark.com 01635 800 520 reservations@retreatelcotpark.com

www.astridtemplier.com

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www.greenlysphoto.com

WHAT A TREAT!

COMPETITION

WIN

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A MINIMOON TO RHODES WORTH £1,700

estled just a short-haul flight away from London, Lindos Grand Resort & Spa offers couples an enchanting haven near the captivating Lindos old town, away from daily life’s hustle and bustle. With 189 elegant rooms, including options for private swim-up infinity pools and sweeping sea views, this remarkable resort sets the stage for a luxurious and romantic getaway.

Situated at the foot of the majestic Acropolis, Lindos beautifully blends traditional charm with modern allure. Winding lanes, whitewashed houses, Byzantine churches, and charming donkey rides create an enchanting backdrop for an unforgettable escape.

At Lindos Grand Resort & Spa, relaxation and rejuvenation are paramount. The Evridiki spa pampers couples with rejuvenating treatments, while yoga sessions promote inner balance. The inviting pool area provides a serene oasis, and as the sun sets, couples can savour expertly crafted cocktails at the Blanc de Blancs Lounge or unwind in the laid-back elegance of the Atmos Sky Lounge.

Culinary delights await with a diverse range of fine-dining experiences. From Mediterranean cuisine at Thalatta Fine Dining Restaurant to island-inspired dishes at Agistri Greek Fish Restaurant, each meal is a celebration of flavours. Italian cuisine lovers will find satisfaction

at La Cucina, offering homemade pastas and thin-crust pizzas, while those seeking an exotic adventure can explore Takara Asian Restaurant or Yume Mou for Asian and Japanese delights.

Win the Ultimate Romantic Getaway!

Lindos Grand Resort & Spa invites couples to embark on an extraordinary romantic experience. The prize includes: •A three-night stay in a Deluxe Junior Suite Sea View on a half-board basis •Enriched Buffet Breakfast & Dinner at the Main Restaurant •A welcome drink upon arrival •Welcome amenities in your room •Complimentary Spa access •Complimentary Wi-Fi access in all rooms and public areas Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to create lasting memories in a truly romantic setting. Enter now for a chance to win this unforgettable experience at Lindos Grand Resort & Spa! Enter via our website www.youreastmidlands.wedding. Terms and Conditions apply. Competition closing date. 31st January 2024.

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THE PERFECT VENUE FOR YOUR PERECT WEDDING DAY

YOUR BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY HOUSE WEDDING Stunning, licensed ceremony venues perfect for an intimate occasion or a larger celebration

Up to 120 people for a Seated Wedding Breakfast 180 for your Evening Reception Exclusivity option available 21 light and spacious bedrooms

www.dowerhousehotel.co.uk Contact our wedding planner, Carolyn, to book an exclusive tour of our lovely hotel.

Quote ‘EastMidMag’ when you get in touch and enjoy two glasses of prosecco after you’ve fallen in love with our venue.

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Founded in 2015, the King Brasstards emerged as one of the UK’s pioneering funky brass bands, their outstanding ability to entertain is unparalleled. King Brasstards aren’t just about the big stage moments; “We can steal the show with a simple, spontaneous performance at a reception,” explains Frontman Gareth John. He adds, “Our dynamic range, from a tight threepiece to a magnificent seven-piece band, ensures both we and our clients enjoy ultimate flexibility.”

Style: With two distinctive vocalists leading their ensemble, the band guarantees exhilarating performances that are not only delightful but also tailored to the desires of their clientele. Their musical canvas, while vast, always maintains a funky New Orleans-inspired undertone. With three stellar albums under their belt, their relentless dedication to versatility and a sharp business ethic is evident. “...A first-class entertainment outfit. With two very different vocalists, the group’s performances are fun, accessible and varied.”— BUSINESS REPORTER.CO.UK

Let’s work together! @kbrasstards

King Brasstards

www.kingbrasstards.com