Your Devon and Cornwall Wedding - Issue 36 March/April 2022

yourdevoncornwall.wedding

The latest ruffled and layered dresses

WIN!

A honeymoon in St Lucia

Spotlight on...

EAST AND MID DEVON Some of the finest

Fun music and entertainment ideas

TO HAVE AND TO HOLD New-season bridal shoes and bags

Keeping it local

W-day news and offers

Make a splash

venues unveiled

£3.55 MAR/APR 2022

The frill of it

PARTY LIKE IT’S 2022!

Choose a chic hotel spa venue

FASHION, BEAUTY, GROOMS, HONEYMOONS, VENUES AND MORE

Your Day, Your Way! Exclusive hire for two full days with your choice of suppliers.

Scan to view video Harefield Barn, Shute, Shobrooke, Devon, EX17 1BW 07541 121404 - www.harefieldbarn.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2022

CONTENTS

REGULARS

65

6 EDITOR’S LETTER

A warm welcome from Claire

8 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions

11 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

On the cover

Photographer Louise Richey is the talent behind the lens of our cover image this issue, taken from the real wedding of Bryony and Zoe at Trevenna wedding venue in Liskeard featured on page 24.

To see more of Louise’s work and book her for your wedding, visit www.louisericheyphotography.com

FEATURES

43 TO THE MANOR BORN

Local experts offer big-day advice

New wedding supplier Ivyhouse Photography collaborated with Shilstone, a country manor house venue located in Modbury, Devon to create this elegant styled shoot with a subtle, traditional feel

82 COMPETITION

47 MUSIC IS LOVE

51 HOT TOPIC

Win a honeymoon in St Lucia

VENUES

13 SPOTLIGHT ON...EAST & MID DEVON

Ways to entertain at weddings large and small

55 THE SUPPORT ACT

We reveal where to wed

Fashion and accessory ideas for the bride, bridesmaids, mothers and groomsmen

19 MAKE A SPLASH

58 HERE COME THE GIRLS

Behind the doors of some of the region’s best hotels and spas

County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey

19

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61

78 REAL WEDDINGS

24 TO HAVE AND TO HOLD

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Bryony and Zoe’s special day at Trevenna enjoyed a blush pink, white and green colour theme

31 RUSTIC ROMANCE Samantha and Clive’s wedding at Humber Barn was styled with a romantic rustic theme with some modern touches

FASHION & BEAUTY

36 DOWN ON THE FARM

60 FASHION FOCUS

Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals her latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches

61 LOVELY IN LACE This classic fabric never goes out of style, whether you choose a traditional gown or a more relaxed, boho-inspired dress

Vicky and Jon’s laid-back country wedding was decorated with a pretty pink and sage-green theme

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65 THE FRILL OF IT

GROOMS 75 GROOMS’ NEWS

All the latest best buys and product launches

76 IN THE PINK Fuchsia, watermelon, flamingo, rouge, salmon, coral, hot pink... the choices are endless when it comes to this oh-so fabulous hue!

HONEYMOONS

Layers and ruffles adorn dresses in the new-season bridal collections

78 HONEYMOON NEWS

70 AISLE STYLE

A round up of new openings and honeymoon essentials

From skyscraper stilettos to comfortable flats and even sliders, the new-season bridal shoe collections offer something for everyone

80 GOURMET LOVERS PARADISE IN THE ALGARVE...

With 3,000 hours of sunshine and just a three-hour flight from the UK, the Algarve offers a delightful year-round destination

71 BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems

72 BEAUTY BUZZ Beauty editor Kelly Andrews reveals all the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be

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EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 Claire Ridley | Editor clairer@county.wedding Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | Deputy Managing Editor and Beauty Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor Melissa Barker | Senior Editor, Grooms and Travel Editor DESIGN 01376 535 616 | artwork@county.wedding Graphic Designers | Sarah Hill Stephanie Hodder | Vicky O’Connor Production Assistant | Lorna Butcher Digital Marketing Coordinator Katie Laley Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley ADVERTISING Sales & Events Director Sarah Ellis | 01376 538 490 sarahm@county.wedding ACCOUNT MANAGER Tony Smith | 01376 538 562 tonys@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James

Thanks, mum!

W

ith the new year in full swing and Mother’s Day and Easter just around the corner, this is a great time to think about mother-of-the-bride and bridesmaids’ outfits as well as gifts to thank the leading ladies in your life so this new-season issue includes a dressing the bridal party feature that isn’t to be missed, turn to page 55 to find out more! There’s also real-life wedding inspiration, expert advice from local suppliers, big-day beauty and beautiful bridal fashion.

If like me, you can’t wait to spoil your mum this Mother’s Day then check out www.yourdevoncornwall.wedding and our social channels for jewellery, accessories, beauty, flower and cake inspiration to thank her for everything that she does. We’ve also created our very own County Wedding Magazines YouTube channel, providing our readers with plenty of wedspiration from venue tours to dream dresses. Catch up on beauty reviews and how-tos from our beauty editor and peek behind the scenes of styled shoots featured in our titles past and present. You can even be a fly on the wall at some real weddings and you’ll also find local supplier interviews packed with tips and tricks.

We’re adding more content all the time, so why not hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a thing? It’s your one-stop-shop for wedding vid-spiration! Simply head to YouTube and search County Wedding Magazines.

Wishing you all a chocolate-filled Easter and I’ll see you next issue!

Claire x

Claire Ridley, Editor

@YourDevonCornwallWedding @CWM_YDCW @cwm_wedding Visit us online at county.wedding and countyweddingevents.com Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing.. 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 Devon & Cornwall Wedding is published six times a year. Subscription rates are £18.20 per annum (incl. p+p). Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing and sent to Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. ISSN 2397-4133

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

I live by the beach and love nothing more than swimming in the sea so when I spotted the stunning seaside views from Bedruthan hotel and spa in Mawgan Porth, Cornwall, revealed in our feature on page 19, I added a visit to the property to my bucket list!

Happy Mother’s Day to the best mum in the world, I love you so much!

EDITOR’S LETTER

I love the selection of cakes and sweet treats from Sweet Art Bakery that Samantha and Clive fed their guests during their wedding at Humber Barn. See more of their pretty details on page 31.

How cute is this adorable backdrop that Bryony and Zoe had at their wedding at Trevenna in Liskeard, Cornwall? See more of their ideas on page 24.

This Easter, I’ll be enjoying a cocktail (or two!) made with varieties from Devon-based organic and sustainable drinks brand Luscombe.

Turn to page eight to read all about them!

Check out the new wedding venue Bridle & Groom Weddings Ltd in Liskeard featured on page 36 and congratulations to Vicky and Jonathon who recently married there!

How cool are these colours and dress designs? On page 55, you’ll see more from bespoke bridal and occasion wear specialists Dandelions and Pearls located in Torquay, Devon.

Anyone who knows me well will tell you that my favourite colour is pink so when I spotted the bridal suite at Arches Beach Weddings located on Newberry Beach in Combe Martin, Devon with its pink freestanding bath and interiors, I fell in love! Turn to page 51 to read all about this venue.

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THE POINT HOLIDAYS LAUNCHES

EDITOR’S FAVOURITE

Devon-based organic and sustainable drinks brand Luscombe offer an array of delicious beverages made using the finest quality organic whole fruits from trusted growers blended with Dartmoor spring water, perfect for weddings. I love the Devon Spritz seasonal cocktail created with Luscombe’s Damascene Rose Bubbly when it’s blended with Devon Cove Vodka and English Sparkling Wine. Non-alcoholic choices include Luscombe’s Passionate Ginger Beer, Sicilian Lemonade and Rhubarb Crush.

To shop, visit https://luscombe.co.uk

MADE IN DEVON

The Point at Polzeath, a year-round holiday venue offering rental accommodation ranging from one-bedroom apartments to houses sleeping up to 16 people has launched The Point Holidays, a family-run North Cornwall holiday business now including high-quality rental properties located in Polzeath, Rock and Daymer Bay. Managing director Tom O’Donnell will lead the expansion of The Point Holidays with the ambition to become the best local, family-run holiday rental and management company in the area.

With a continued drive to provide outstanding customer service, the team have a shared passion to provide unforgettable experiences for guests to enjoy what the local area has to offer. He tells us, “We are very fortunate to have an abundance of natural beauty on the doorstep, and our team are passionate about the area and committed to sharing their local knowledge and expertise to help our customers create cherished memories.” He continues, “We expect the recent popularity of staycations to continue and are delighted to expand our collection of quality holiday homes into the neighbouring villages of Rock, Polzeath and Trebetherick.”

To book, call 01208 863 000 or visit www.thepointholidays.co.uk

d e w y l r a e N The latest news from around both counties

Sustainable underwear, lounge and sleepwear brand Stripe & Stare, with its headquarters in Yelverton, Devon, make eco-friendly knickers from a material called Modal that’s sustainably produced in Austria from beechwood trees. The garments are 95% biodegradable and last year, the brand released a 100% biodegradable lace underwear collection.

The fast-growth business has increased its revenue by over 100% a year for the last three years, driven by increased demand for sustainable fashion and a buoyant e-commerce market. In addition to its thriving online platform, the brand is stocked by a host of independent and high-end retailers including Selfridges.

Co-founders Katie Lopes and Nicola Piercy have announced an investment from BGF, the UK and Ireland’s most active growth capital investor, along with some private backers. This investment will be used to scale the business by increasing employment and production capacity at its headquarters to drive the UK and international sales.

Nicola Piercy tells us, “The last 12 months has exceeded all expectations for the business. We’ve seen consistently strong organic growth and repeat purchase rates.

We’ve created a product that women love and as a result, we’ve received global recognition for our product range.” She continues, “To move to the next stage of growth it was clear we needed a partner who understood the needs of our company and could provide support. There was a clear synergy between Stripe & Stare and the BGF investment team. With a focus on long-term, minority investment and experience of building successful e-commerce businesses, it was clear they were the right partners to take us to the next stage of growth.”

To shop, visit https://stripeandstare.com 8

NEWS

Congratulations!

YOUR ESSENTIALS

Martyn Norsworthy of Norsworthy Photography based in Kingsbridge, Devon, was recently awarded Global Round Winner in the International Wedding Awards just weeks after winning the Country Round and the Local (Regional) Round.

The Awards honour those wedding businesses that go the extra mile and deliver a quality service. All sectors of the wedding industry are represented, from florists and make-up artists to transport suppliers.

To book Martyn for your wedding, visit www.norsworthyweddings.com

EDITOR LOVES

Cornish drinks brand High Point has unveiled a great premium non-alcoholic fermented aperitif and digestif for a healthier drinks choice for weddings.

High Point Ruby Aperitif and High Point Amber Digestif provide a serve that’s full of flavour made without artificial flavours or colours with natural ingredients from the surrounding Cornish countryside and mixed with Cornish spring water and tea leaves. These botanicals are then infused, fermented and blended to produce drinks that are layered in flavours, deep in aromas and complexity.

To shop, visit https://highpointdrinks.co.uk

New Cornish launch

Tarquin’s hand-crafted Cornish gin has unveiled its limited-edition Black Cherry Gin infused with fresh-pressed black cherries and a touch of orange zest creating a rich, zingy and vibrant spirit. Made in small batches in one of Tarquin’s flame-fired copper pot stills, this limited-edition release is only available until April 2022.

To shop, visit https://shop.tarquinsgin.com

NEW LAUNCH

Sharpham Cheese has launched new cheese celebration cakes, perfect for weddings. Hand-crafted on the banks of the River Dart, Sharpham Cheese has a range of nine multi-award winning cheeses to choose from, plus Peter’s Yard sourdough crackers and new Sharpham chutneys to complete the showstopping centrepieces.

Choose from a simple three-tier creation to an extravagant six-tier tower crowned with a heart-shaped cheese at the top.

The team can help couples to pick a balance of flavours and characteristics, like the smooth, silky brie and the complex mushroom Washbourne sheep’s cheese.

Each cheese celebration cake is individually crafted, shaped and aged from scratch, to ensure it’s the perfect centrepiece for the occasion and the process is personal for each booking. It starts with a phone call to understand the exact requirements and then the customer is welcome to visit Sharpham Dairy, located in the Dart Valley, to meet the cheesemakers and decide which varieties work best. If that’s not possible, a cheese taster box will be sent in the post. Once the cheeses and accompaniments have been confirmed, Sharpham Cheese gets to work crafting the individual cheese cake.

Sharpham’s Greg Parsons tells us, “Our cheeses are all handmade here in Devon, with each small batch unique to Sharpham Estate. Flavours, aromas and textures are influenced from the terroir here – thanks to the rich variety of grasses and herbs that grow in the Dart Valley.”

To shop, visit www.sharphamcheese.co.uk 9

“Sara and Symeon went above and beyond to make our day that little bit more special.

Their communication from the very start was faultless. Everything was so easy from the point of booking to the actual day. I’d highly recommend them.”

Honey Bugs is based in Cornwall and provides vintage VW Wedding campers for your big day!

www.honeybugscornwall.co.uk

T: 01209 822383 E: contact.honeybugscornwall@gmail.com handsomehank01 BugsCornwall bugscornwall

John Green

Dynamic Entertainments

Professional DJ & Custom Lighting Engineer Over 20 Years Experience

M. 07970 519161 E. john@jgde.co.uk www.jgde.co.uk

Images courtesy of www.oliverturl.com

FREEBIES & OFFERS

ABRACADABRA!

Scan to view video

Freebies & OFFERS

A professional wedding magician is a perfect way to keep guests entertained during the wedding reception because they can spend plenty of time sitting around waiting for the photographer to finish, dinner to be served or speeches to start. Plymouth-based Lewis Belcher is an award-winning magician covering weddings and events throughout Devon and Cornwall. He specialises in close-up and table magic, performing tricks with cards, coins and rings, as well as illusions, predictions and even mind reading.

Lewis tells us, “Hiring a professional wedding magician with plenty of tricks up their sleeve is the perfect way to amuse people. Magic is something that everyone can appreciate, from small children to the older generation, and it translates into any language and culture. The shared experience of watching me, and participating in my tricks, can help break the ice with guests who don’t know each other and it’s guaranteed fun, adding the wow factor to any celebration. A good magician can make you believe in magic but a great magician can be the magic!”

Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding has teamed up with Lewis to offer readers a 10% discount when hiring him to perform at a wedding. To book, call 01752 936 086 quoting YDCW36 and to find out more, visit http://lbmagic.uk www.facebook.com/lbmagicuk

Take advantage of these great giveaways

WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY

Coppa Club’s The Swan at Streatley is a tranquil countryside getaway set in the Berkshire village of Streatley. Situated on the River Thames, roughly an hour from London, the 47-bedroom property has been newly refurbished and offers river-view rooms, or suites opening onto the garden lawn making it a great option for a dog-friendly getaway!

The grounds include the property’s own private island, lovely walks for couples and families (and four-legged companions) and the property is also ideal for riverside weddings, seating up to 130 friends and family!

Perfect for a pre- or post-wedding getaway, guests can access the property via car, boat or helicopter and have access to on-site paddle boarding, exercise classes, hotel gym and events throughout the year.

You can book a Small Double Room from £80 per night, and a Medium Double Room from £100 per night.

Check out www.theswanatstreatley.com County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Coppa Club The Swan At Streatley to give readers the chance to win an overnight stay for two people with breakfast, as well as a three-course meal with a bottle of fizz!

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER VIA OUR WEBSITE. Closing date 3rd June 2022. Terms and conditions apply.

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IMAGE BY JOSHUA GOODING PHOTOGRAPHY

www.uptonbarn.com THE 2021 WEDDING INDUSTRY AWARDS: NATIONAL WINNER

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Bickleigh Castle An English Historical Landmark

Where Wedding Dreams Do Come True!

Bickleigh Castle, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 8RP | 01884 855 363 | weddings@bickleighcastle.com BC_Devon_Cornwall_Wedding_mag_July2019.indd 1

bickleighcastle.com 20/07/2019 10:16

REGIONAL VENUES

Spotlight on...

EAST AND MID DEVON These wonderful settings all have a story to tell

Images courtesy of www.siobhanbealesphoto.com; www.evolvephoto.co.uk and www.katedixonphotography.co.uk

HUNTSHAM COURT, HUNTSHAM Huntsham Court is one of the finest examples of a Victorian gothic private mansion in the countryside. The venue is a hidden gem, with no view of it from the surrounding roads, it’s only as visitors head up the sweeping driveway that they catch a glimpse of the impressive building, with its turret, floor-to-ceiling windows and open grounds with views stretching across the stunning Devon countryside.

This exclusive-use country house wedding venue offers a welcoming home-from-home atmosphere. The venue has five large main reception rooms and a sweeping oak staircase in the entrance hall, perfect for big-day photos. Each room has been lovingly and sympathetically designed, keeping many of its original features including parquet flooring throughout the ground floor, marble archway columns in the Great Hall, Jacobean wooden panelled walls and open fireplaces.

The entire house is decorated in an eclectic mix of styles and colours and can sleep up to 92 guests across 40 bedrooms, all of which are a unique design, with four-poster beds, canopy king-sized beds, twin rooms and family bedrooms.

The grounds are made up of five acres with open lawns for outdoor gatherings during the summer months. There’s space for garden games, lounging areas with benches and outdoor furniture, a tennis court, a beautiful Cedar tree, ancient Beech trees and a giant parasol offering

plenty of shade, plus the beautiful Dovecote for outdoor ceremonies with enough seating for up to 130 guests set against the unrivalled views of rolling fields and woodlands.

Ceremonies also take place in a variety of rooms inside the house including the Great Hall for up to 100 guests (with additional standing space), in the Diamond Room with its marble fireplace and antique tapestry for up to 70 loved ones, and the Yellow Room, Library and the entrance hall.

Receptions tend to take place in the Great Hall during the cooler months, with its open fire for up to 130 guests. The reception rooms all flow from one another providing plenty of space and during the evening, there’s room to relax in the grand Diamond room or cosy up in the Bar Snug.

During the warmer months, receptions can take place outdoors in the grounds, with most guests occupying the top lawn while drinks and canapés are served.

Ceremony licence: Yes Contact: 01398 361 277, www.huntshamcourt.co.uk ♥ We love... the wedding suite that features two freestanding baths placed next to each other, ideal for newlyweds.

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BICKLEIGH CASTLE, TIVERTON This historic 11th-century castle and 6th-century Saxon chapel are situated next to the River Exe which flows down to Exmouth, combining a tranquil river setting with magnificent countryside views. The charming newly decorated thatched cottages that provide comfortable guest accommodation are dotted around the central courtyard and the elegant bridal suite is a charming Tudor room with a four-poster bed located inside the actual castle.

Ceremonies take place in a variety of areas depending on the size of the party including outside on the lawn under the gazebo, adjacent to the river and next to the chapel. The Great Hall can accommodate between 50 to 120 guests with 70 loved ones seated for dinner. The beautiful Banqueting Room is another ceremony choice for between 50 to 120 people and this long room with rustic oak beams can host up to 120 for the wedding breakfast. There’s also The Orangery that can sit between

40 and 60 people for the ceremony and the Guard Room for intimate weddings of up to 30 loved ones.

The pretty manicured gardens are home to a bank of rhododendrons at the back of the lawn that bloom during late spring and early summer, making an Insta-worthy backdrop for photos, plus a croquet lawn, tennis court, area to play cricket and a hot tub. The castle’s tower ruin is another great spot for couple portraits.

Ceremony licence: Yes Contact: 01884 855 363, https://bickleighcastle.com ♥ We love... that couples get to meet the chef and sit down for a three-course tasting experience ahead of their wedding where they get to sample the fabulous Bickleigh Castle-branded red and white wine!

MIDDLE COOMBE FARM, TIVERTON This Grade II listed thatched farmhouse and the converted barn is set in the heart of the rolling Devonshire countryside. Nestled in its own private valley, it’s surrounded by more than 400 acres of woodland, unspoilt meadows and pretty gardens perfect for big-day photographs.

Accommodation is provided in the Grade II listed farmhouse and converted barn sleeping up to 20 guests who can enjoy the use of the private solar-heated swimming pool and hot tub.

Ceremonies, the wedding breakfast and evening reception take place in the traditional cider barn, home to the original cider press, for up to 100 guests. The Drawing Room inside the farmhouse is suitable for micro and elopement weddings and there’s also an outdoor ceremony site in the 14

heart of the woodland set against the backdrop of an ancient oak tree for hand-fasting ceremonies and blessings with the woodland glade acting as the aisle. Picnics can be arranged here and there’s also the option of a luxury marquee overlooking the meadow that can be used for dining and dancing.

Ceremony licence: Yes Contact: 01884 821 176, www.coombefarmwoods.co.uk ♥ We love... the private glamping hut nestled in the meadow, perfect for newlyweds.

Weddings for up to 150 guests Stunning country location Accommodation Outdoor or Indoor Ceremonies Lakeside, Barn & Farmhouse Weddings Weekend Packages Relaxed Family Atmosphere

enquiries@deersleapretreat.co.uk

D EVON’S B EST R USTIC V ENUE

w w w. d e e r s l e a p r e t r e a t . c o . u k |

+44 (0)1398 341407

|

Deer’s Leap Retreat, West Anstey, South Molton, Devon, EX36 3NZ

Start your life together in the most romantic setting The dramatic Music Room is nestled within a 10,000 acre private estate with enchanting gardens and lake, creating an unspoilt panorama of the rolling hills of Exmoor.

2022

2021 dates dates still still available available www.woolhanger.com Parracombe, Barnstaple EX31 4RF

Viewing by appointment only Call the Estate Office: 01598 763309

IN SECLUDED & ACCESSIBLE EAST DEVON Unique outdoor venue with a willow ‘cathedral’, silver birch ‘church’ and barn. Glamping and farmhouse accommodation for relaxed weekend weddings.

Scan to view video

Weddings Looking to say ‘I do’ on Dartmoor?

Set in 275 acres of beautiful countryside and rolling valleys, Bovey Castle is a truly unforgettable wedding venue in Devon. With its rich history, effortless charm and elegance, you can enjoy a wedding like no other at Bovey Castle.

Stunning landscaped gardens and period architecture offer the perfect backdrop for wedding photographs.

CALL OUR WEDDING TEAM ON 01647 445098 BOVEY CASTLE, NORTH BOVEY, DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK BOVEY CASTLE, NORTH BOVEY, DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK

01647 445098 | WEDDINGS@BOVEYCASTLE.COM | BOVEYCASTLE.COM 01647 445098 | WEDDINGS@BOVEYCASTLE.COM | BOVEYCASTLE.COM

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Canonteign Falls offers an impressive venue in a breathtaking setting Home to one of England’s highest waterfalls Canonteign Falls is a magnificent example of a Victorian folly set in 90 acres of ancient woodland and estate on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park in Devon. The waterfalls themselves descend for over 70m through ferns and woods. At the base of the falls, the woodland gives way to meadows and lakes making this one of the most breathtaking venues in Devon. With a lakeside Pagoda, event Barn, excellent facilities, and free parking the site is well set up to service any bespoke event and provides an impressive backdrop to suit any occasion.

A small but experienced event team is on hand to coordinate all events seamlessly at Canonteign Falls estate.

Please do contact Managing director Lianne Bell through events@canonteign.com to arrange a site visit.

www.canonteignevents.co.uk 01647 252614 ext 2 | events@canonteign.com

WWW.HIGHERHOLCOMBE.CO.UK Instagram @higher.holcombe

REGIONAL VENUES

Photography of Magic Circle Ceremony Space courtesy of https://fionawalsh.co.uk

ASHRIDGE GREAT BARN, NORTH TAWTON This historic building set on a working farm in the Devon countryside has been sensitively restored to retain many original features creating a rustic ambience with real character. The split-level space features a built-in dancefloor, bar and flexible entryways.

The venue is nestled in its own valley surrounded by green pastures and woodland, with the formal gardens, home to an arboretum planted by the Victorians and a pretty walled garden promising a stunning view just a short walk away. The exterior space includes a firepit, space for food trucks and seating as well as a catering barn and a lawn area, perfect for summer weddings.

There are four licensed ceremony spaces including The Main Barn for up to 120 guests, the Snug for an intimate 40 loved ones and the Magic Circle Pavilion in the gardens, a special space enclosed by a ring of conifers lined with Japanese Maple trees. The Woodland

Glade, a clearing in mature woodland surrounded by trees, is new for weddings in 2022. Receptions take place in The Main Barn for up to 140 guests seated at round or trestle tables. The Magic Circle Pavilion and the gardens provide a stunning backdrop for a drinks reception or afternoon tea party and there’s no maximum capacity but if the weather is uncooperative then it’s helpful if all the guests fit in the barn!

Ceremony licence: Yes Contact: 01837 352 025, www.ashridge-court.co.uk ♥ We love... that the venue is only available for exclusive use with a limited number of weddings held each year. All bookings are for three days (so there’s time to set everything up) and couples will have access to a prop collection to style the venue with, experienced staff on hand to help and no corkage charges.

Interior of Harefield Barn courtesy of www.helencourtphotography.com and external photograph courtesy of https://evolvephoto.co.uk

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HAREFIELD BARN, CREDITON A large oak-framed porch welcomes guests to this exclusive-use, family-run barn ‘venue with a view’ that’s situated on a farm in the heart of the South Devon countryside. The light and spacious interior of the barn offers a homely feel with all the character of a barn venue but with a modern vibe.

A tall gable-end window and glass wall allows for fabulous far-flung views. Three sets of large bi-fold doors open out on to the terrace from both the Sawpit Bar and Main Hall and flexible room layout options have been designed to showcase the panoramic views.

The spacious paved terrace with seating flows directly on to the extensive lawn area and the field beyond. On the terrace, The Clock House provides the perfect location for an al fresco ceremony, and steps lined with ornamental grasses lead to the special horseshoe sculpture, perfect for photographs. There’s also a wildflower meadow, festoon lighting, a firepit and ample parking.

Ceremonies take place in a choice of licensed areas including the

Main Hall for 150 seated and 200 standing, the chapel-like space with a vaulted ceiling known as The Tallet for up to 100 guests and The Clock House, an al fresco ceremony space commanding a stunning location.

There’s also the intimate Leveret Suite that can hold a maximum of ten loved ones for the ceremony and The Gallery, a mezzanine area above the Main Hall licensed for 30 loved ones.

The wedding breakfast and evening reception usually takes place in the Main Hall for up to 140 loved ones seated at round tables or up to 200 guests when some of the tables are cleared and people can spread into the bar and up on to the gallery.

Ceremony licence: Yes Contact: 07541 121 404, www.harefieldbarn.co.uk ♥ We love... that this relatively new venue has availability for dates throughout 2022.

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from

£3800 Based on 50 daytime & 100 evening guests

Happily

EVER AFTER

LET YOUR DREAM WEDDING UNFOLD WITH THE HELPING HAND FROM OUR DEDICATED WEDDING PLANNER, WHO WILL DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO MAKE YOUR DREAM WEDDING A REALITY We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and understand the importance of making your day your own which is why we offer packages to help you tailor your wedding to suit you. We offer a range of packages that will transform your wedding into the most magical day imaginable.

Whatever you decide, we will create a stunning wedding celebration for you and your loved ones to cherish.

INCLUDED IN OUR WEDDING PACKAGES Dedicated wedding planner and master of ceremonies 3-course wedding breakfast Drinks package including drinks on arrival, with meal and toast Evening buffet Flower arrangements for all your tables Red Carpet arrival Complimentary use of silver cake stand and knife

t 01271 376221 w barnstaplehotel.co.uk e events@barnstaplehotel.co.uk

Bed and Breakfast for the newlyweds Discounted accommodation for your guests

Braunton Road, Barnstaple, Devon EX31 1LE

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THEMED VENUES

Hot hotels These fabulous settings, some featuring spas, all host weddings

BEDRUTHAN, MAWGAN PORTH, CORNWALL

Interior of New Continental Hotel courtesy of www.margorphotography.com

This Scandinavian-inspired retreat is perched on top of the Cornish clifftops overlooking Mawgan Porth Beach, offering an idyllic choice for nature-loving couples. The hotel has been designed to the highest eco-standards with the local environment in mind, boasting airy, spacious and colourful interiors reflected in the variety of bedrooms with views either looking out over the golden sands of Mawgan Porth or of the Cornish landscape (the property has been built to achieve a glimpse of the far-flung views from every angle). Most rooms have freestanding baths, all have large power showers, fluffy bathrobes, towels, and Tri-Dosha holistic wellness products, plus the hotel’s villa has its own patio terrace.

Food plays a pivotal part of the experience with Bedruthan being home to two dining options – The Wild Café located on the clifftop offering enviable views of the landscape and a variety of dishes from summer squash curries, thickly-crusted pies and bright seasonal salads.

Meanwhile, The Herring restaurant offers a small and meticulously curated menu of locally sourced, seasonal dishes celebrating the region. Each evening sees only three mains offered (fish, meat, or a vegetable choice) featuring a wide variety of bold flavours. Afternoon

tea can also be enjoyed here with a selection of delicate patisseries and savoury sandwiches on offer.

Wellness-loving duos can enjoy the sea-view, environmentally friendly spa facilities (including an indoor swimming pool, hydro pool, sauna, steam room and Roman-style caldarium). There’s also the Sensory Spa Gardens plus relaxation lounges, fireside and poolside.

The setting is perfect for laid-back weddings, from elopements and low-key micro weddings to larger more extravagant affairs. The Garden Room is a quiet, intimate space tucked away with large windows revealing views stretching across the North Cornish cliffs.

During the evening reception here, guests can gather around the romantic glow of the dune garden’s firepit. The Venue is a larger space where guests enter through a dedicated entrance and it’s home to a private bar and a sun terrace.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01637 861 200, www.bedruthan.com ♥ We love... the Day Spa packages and Bedruthan treatment combinations, perfect for some pre-wedding pampering.

NEW CONTINENTAL HOTEL, PLYMOUTH, DEVON This grand Victorian hotel is a landmark building in Plymouth marrying traditional Art Deco details with modern elements. The city centre location offers a variety of photographic backdrops close by, from Plymouth Hoe and Royal William Yard to Devonport Park.

Inside, the glamorous vintage décor and romantic, classic style make it the perfect setting for a timeless wedding. Ceremonies usually take place in the Green Room for up to 50 guests but the Athena Room for up to 150 loved ones and the Executive Room holding up to 100 people are other stylish options.

Receptions can take place in the Athena Room and the Green

Room but also the Ballroom for up to 250 loved ones with its glittering chandeliers, own bar and dancefloor.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01752 276 798, www.newcontinental.co.uk ♥ We love... the complimentary Club Continental gym membership available to the couple when they book the Continental or Deluxe Package, to begin one year before the wedding date, plus a complimentary tasting is included in the Deluxe Package.

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THE DUKE OF CORNWALL HOTEL, PLYMOUTH, DEVON This magnificent hotel, Plymouth’s first luxury one, is positioned on the fringe of Britain’s Ocean City adjacent to Millbay Park which offers a fantastic green space perfect for big-day photographs. A short stroll from the hotel is another wonderful photographic opportunity at Plymouth Hoe, which offers sensational ocean views across Plymouth Sound.

The Gothic Grade 11 listed building with feature windows, towers and turrets dates back to 1863 and boasts a canopy entrance, ornate architectural features and revolving entrance doors. The interior offers a wealth of historic features, with grand rooms and hallways, glittering chandeliers, period columns and a stunning Grade II listed sweeping staircase.

Weddings take place in a variety of stylish function rooms to suit a range of party sizes, from 10 to 300. The options include the stately

Ballroom, a grand space with atmospheric lighting, a fixed stage for entertainment, a private bar and a dancefloor, or the grand Dining Room with its spectacular domed ceiling and chandelier. There’s also the more intimate Millbay Suite, a sophisticated setting for a smaller celebration boasting a feature fireplace and last but not least, the chic Hayward Room, a magnificent space featuring beautiful bay windows showcasing superb views over King Point Marina.

HARBOUR ST IVES, CORNWALL

a heated pool, hot tub, cedarwood sauna and luxurious treatments courtesy of ESPA. Chic seaside weddings take place in The Harbour Suite, the property’s largest wedding space, catering for both the ceremony and reception for up to 160 guests seated or 200 for the reception. The Godrevy Sands Suite boasts a private terrace with steps down to the beach and is the perfect spot for pre and post-ceremony receptions and evening celebrations.

This popular coastal retreat offering guests an oasis of calm just a stone’s throw from the long sandy Porthminster Beach. The 52-room sea-view property is the ultimate Cornish seaside oasis serving up British beachside elegance at its very best. The luxurious property has recently enjoyed a refurbishment with all rooms renovated in a chic colour scheme of pink, blue and green, while the exterior has been repainted in a charming Cornish slate colour and decorated with hanging baskets, botanical plants and new signage.

Harbour Hotels recently introduced a new foodie concept, Harbour Kitchen, to five of its properties including Harbour St Ives.

It champions classic British dishes created with unexpected twists, offering in-season, sustainable and local produce. The menus enjoy wild-caught seafood, grass-fed meat and fresh seasonal produce as well as internationally inspired dishes such as steamed mussels with Thai coconut chill and lime, and seabass fillet with mussels, pak choi and miso broth.

Couples can relax at the property’s indulgent HarSPA featuring 20

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01752 275 850, www.thedukeofcornwall.co.uk ♥ We love... the choice of four fantastic wedding packages on offer with the option for couples to create a bespoke package based on their requirements.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01736 795 221, www.harbourhotels.co.uk/st-ives ♥ We love... the other Harbour Hotels in Devon and Cornwall including Sidmouth Harbour Hotel, Harbour Fowey, Padstow Harbour Hotel, Harbour Salcombe and the latest addition to the Harbour portfolio, the new Harbour Beach Club & Hotel located in Salcombe, a luxurious family-friendly retreat located on the charming shoreline of South Sands Beach.

Exterior image of Duke of Cornwall hotel courtesy of Artography and table set-up courtesy of www.tobylowephotography.co.uk

www.baxterandted.com

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Louise Eleanor Photography, www.louiseleanor.com

Millbay Rd, Plymouth PL1 3LD T: 01752 220782

NewContinentalHotel

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E: weddings@newcontinental.co.uk

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Our aim is to turn your vision into a reality creating lasting memories to cherish forever.

THE HARTNOLL HOTEL, BOLHAM, TIVERTON, DEVON, EX16 7RA

www.hartnollhotel.co.uk events@hartnollhotel.co.uk | 01884 252 777

THEMED VENUES

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THE HORN OF PLENTY, TAVISTOCK, DEVON This luxurious award-winning country hotel is set in five acres of pretty landscaped grounds just a stone’s throw from the picturesque Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Dartmoor National Park. A recent redevelopment sees the spacious rooms decorated with vibrant pops of colour and the 2 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant features wall-to-ceiling sliding doors leading to the decked terrace that showcases spectacular views.

Outdoor ceremonies take place against this backdrop with guests enjoying al fresco drinks and garden games in the manicured walled garden. The grounds are home to a pond, a wild orchard and pretty walkways perfect for big-day photographs. The large Acer (maple) tree positioned just outside the restaurant adds romance to winter weddings turning seasonal shades of orange and red.

In the main house, exclusive-use weddings can take place for up to 90 guests during the day and 120 people in the evening. Larger

parties can enjoy a marquee in the grounds while for couples wanting something small and intimate, the team at the hotel can offer elopement weddings, afternoon nuptials and smaller celebrations without exclusive use of the property being taken.

Ceremonies take place in a choice of four licensed rooms and for those wanting a church wedding, there are some local country and town-based churches close by. Couples can then visit the hotel for reception drinks, the wedding breakfast and evening celebrations.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01822 832 528, www.thehornofplenty.co.uk ♥ We love... that every wedding that takes place at the property is bespoke. Owner Julie (featured in the video) and her team are superflexible, helping couples design, organise and implement their special day to be unique to them.

CONGRATULATIONS! Idyllic Cornish wedding venue Polurrian on the Lizard is celebrating after being awarded Silver in the Wedding Venue of the Year category in the Cornwall Tourism Awards 2021/22. The hotel’s weddings and events manager, Megan Walsingham was also awarded Bronze in the Unsung Hero category.

The competition, which is now in its 20th year, saw an increased 125 entries. Winners were announced on 3rd February, with the organisers congratulating the resilience of this year’s finalists in an ever-challenging environment.

General manager Grant Callaghan tells us, “We pride ourselves on taking a truly personal approach to organise and host weddings here at Polurrian on the Lizard and it’s been an absolute pleasure seeing happy couples being able to celebrate their big day once more in such a special location.” He continues, “Particular praise goes to our weddings and events manager, Megan Walsingham who achieved the further accolade of Bronze in the Unsung Hero category for her tireless efforts in making dreams come true.”

Megan, who joined the team in April 2021, has made a huge impact on the wedding offering and has received glowing feedback from guests. “I help couples from enquiry right through to the big day, including the planning, meetings and execution,” she explains. “It’s important to me to have a great relationship with all of my couples and that they know they can come to me with any queries, big or small.

I have also worked hard to build great relationships with suppliers, potential clientele and staff within the hotel.”

“As well as boasting incredible views from its clifftop location, Polurrian on the Lizard benefits from the best sunsets in Cornwall.

This, coupled with a variety of packages to suit all budgets and bespoke menus easily catering for all dietary requirements makes Polurrian the perfect choice for marking that special day,” concludes Grant.

With reception rooms boasting unbeatable views out over Mounts Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, four function rooms to choose from,

fantastic food and drink and 41 individually styled bedrooms, Polurrian on the Lizard is an idyllic coastal spot for both intimate weddings and larger parties. The venue can also be hired on an exclusive basis, providing use of the entire hotel and 12 acres of cliff-top gardens.

Originally built in 1890, the property was a fashionable railway hotel appealing to distinguished guests. Destroyed by a fire in 1909 and rebuilt, the hotel has hosted glamorous guests from Hollywood’s heyday to Strictly Come Dancing stars. Every bit as welcoming now as it was then, the modern-day Polurrian on the Lizard remains a fashionable escape with a health club and spa and restaurant serving up Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01326 240 421, www.polurrianhotel.com ♥ We love... that as part of the Exclusive-Use Package, all guests staying over will receive breakfast and the happy couple will be invited to a food tasting and a one-night stay in a sea view room before their wedding. There’s also an Elopement Package available for couples only.

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and to hold TO HAVE

Bryony and Zoe’s special day at Trevenna enjoyed a blush pink, white and green colour theme Images courtesy of Louise Richey Photography

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Bryony and Zoe Summerfield married on 7th August 2021 at Trevenna in Liskeard, Cornwall.

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B

ryony and Zoe attended the same secondary school where they became best friends. “We shared similar interests and our friendship grew stronger after we left school,” they tell us. “Five years later, we fell in love and purchased a house together.”

The couple became engaged on 26th June 2019 when Bryony proposed to Zoe at Bigbury on Sea beach in Devon.

“I couldn’t think of anything better than having Zoe as my wife,” Bryony tells us. “I asked her mum and dad for their blessing before popping the question at our favourite spot.

Zoe’s mum Debbie had helped me choose the ring which was a big surprise for Zoe, and she said “yes” instantly - plenty of happy tears were shared!”

SETTING THE SCENE The couple wanted a venue that would accommodate their ceremony and reception. “When we first viewed Trevenna, we loved the natural beauty of the place and the fact that it was in a secluded, private location,” they tell us. “It offered multiple options for where we could have our ceremony, both inside and outdoors, meaning we didn’t have to worry about the weather and the hosts were very welcoming and could cater for all of our needs. It also allowed up to 40 guests to stay for the entire weekend with us which was important because it

REAL WEDDINGS

“I felt nervous in the morning and was the most emotional one during the ceremony! I became more relaxed during the evening – the day just went by so quickly and I didn’t stop smiling!” – Bryony

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Whether it’s creating the perfect look for your bridal makeup or helping you plan your wedding down to the last detail, our aim is to truly make it your beautiful day.

Our accredited make up artiste and planning team covers Cornwall, Devon and beyond. We all love what we do and it really does show!

To find out how we can help you too, call 07412 454549 | www.yourbeautifuldayuk.co.uk

REAL WEDDINGS “I felt very happy during our ceremony and was relieved that we had everybody there. We both felt extremely lucky that we could have our wedding on our original planned date with no restrictions because, in the lead-up to our wedding, the pandemic was stressful for us all!” – Zoe allowed us plenty of quality time to spend with our loved ones.”

Bryony and Zoe’s colour theme was blush pink mixed with white and green which was reflected throughout their décor, including in the floral centrepieces which consisted of three vases with one filled with water and a lit floating candle, another brimming with a pink, white and green floral arrangement and a third filled with sand from some of the couple’s favourite beaches with a flag saying ‘hand-picked by Bryony and Zoe’. “In the middle of the vases was a wooden name stand sprayed rose-gold displaying our table names that were after these beaches,” Bryony tells us. “Because my mum used to be a florist, we purchased some wholesale varieties from St Mellion Flowers Cornwall and she used these to create my bouquet and our three bridesmaids’ posies, 15 buttonholes, the table arrangements and aisle flowers. She also used some to decorate our four-tier semi-naked cake. We asked the talented team at St Mellion Flowers Cornwall to dress the arbour, decorate the hanging ladder in the ceremony room and make Zoe’s bouquet and the top table spray which all looked beautiful.”

Zoe’s dad owns a window and door business so the couple used a refurbished white internal door with each table name written on the individual glass panes. “We painted these glass panels rose gold and decorated the door with faux foliage which looked great,” they tell us. “We made our hand-written place names using white card placed on cork and sourced an old mirror which we sprayed rose gold to be our order of the day. Zoe’s dad created a sweetie bar using old pallets which were painted grey and pink and we gave sweets, crayons and colouring books as favours to the children and scratch cards in ‘lucky in love’ holders to the adults.”

The couple’s guests enjoyed a three-course sit-down meal of arancini balls, caesar salad or crab filo tart to start followed by mushroom wellington, pork or beef as the main course and lemon posset or a trio of brownies for dessert. “The mouth-watering evening food provided by the chefs at the venue included pasties, cheese, meat, bacon rolls and our delicious wedding cake which featured a salted caramel tier, carrot cake and lemon drizzle layers and a raspberry and white chocolate tier.”

LOOKING THE PART Bryony chose the wedding dress called Eleanor by Essence of Australia purchased at Prudence Gowns in Plymouth, Devon. “I wore the complete opposite of what I imagined I would,” she tells us. “I thought I wanted something to cover my arms and a style that wasn’t too big but I ended up picking a gown featuring thin straps and a long train which I felt confident and beautiful in. I teamed it with a mid-length plain veil and a floral headpiece, a Swarovski bracelet which Zoe gave to me as a present on the day and a pair of white, flat sandals.”

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Zoe chose the Kelanna dress by Stella York bought from The Bridal Corner Boutique. “I picked this style because my mum and I cried happy tears as soon as I tried it on,” she tells us. “I loved the detail on it and how it made me look and feel, I just knew it was the one. I wore a short, plain veil, a sparkly tiara, a Pandora bracelet, which Bryony gave to me as a gift on our wedding day, a pair of Swarovski earrings and I finished my look with some white lace sandals.”

Both of their dads, and Bryony’s brothers, wore matching navy check three-piece suits teamed with brown shoes and a pink and blue floral tie. “We had three bridesmaids who were two of our best friends and Bryony’s cousin. Each wore long, blush-pink dresses with lace detail and they looked stunning.”

TIME TO CELEBRATE After their ceremony, Bryony and Zoe hired a saxophonist, Daniel Costin, to perform. “He entertained our guests whilst we were having our photos taken,” the couple says. “Everyone enjoyed his music and he joined us as we walked into our wedding breakfast and performed a song as we took our seats.”

During the evening, the couple booked DJ Northey to get the party started. “We enjoyed half an hour of rock music during his set because Bryony’s family are rockers at heart!”

Zoe tells us. “This was a highlight of the evening and was very entertaining! DJ Northey also played our first dance song, This Will Be An Everlasting Love by Natalie Cole, as we performed our rehearsed routine – we had plenty of fun doing it and our guests loved it!”

Bryony and Zoe also booked a VW Campervan photo booth for their guests to enjoy. “There were plenty of fun props for them to dress up in and unlimited prints for everyone to take home,” they tell us.

“The talented team at Trevenna made our day run without any worries our guests were smiling all day and night because they were so attentive.

Our photographers, Louise Richey and Steve, had our guests laughing throughout, capturing priceless, natural moments and working seamlessly with our videographer.” – Bryony and Zoe THE DREAM TEAM Venue, catering and cake | Trevenna | 01579 320 013 | www.trevenna.co.uk Photographer | Louise Richey | 07961 692 179 | www.louisericheyphotography.com Videographer | koloreditors | 07594 921 097 | www.koloreditors.co.uk Bryony’s dress | Prudence Gowns | 01752 558 858 | www.prudencegowns.com Zoe’s dress | The Bridal Corner Boutique | 01752 787 878 | www.thebridalcorner.co.uk Hair | Therapy Hair & Beauty Boutique | 01752 337 133 | www.teamtherapy.co.uk Make-up | Your Beautiful Day | 07412 454 549 | www.yourbeautifuldayuk.co.uk Flowers | St Mellion Flowers Cornwall | 01752 845 545 | www.stmellionflowers.co.uk Entertainment | DJ Northey | 07919 962 737 | www.djnorthey.co.uk Saxophonist | Daniel Costin | www.danielcostin.live Photo booth | Vintage Camper Booths | 07766 025 621 | www.vintagecamperbooths.co.uk Bridesmaids’ dresses | Debenhams Suits | House of Fraser Stationery | The Range and Etsy 28

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Mane events offer the supply of entertainment like no other. With our huge range of inflatables to choose from you can keep your guests busy all day with our adult friendly bouncy castles, bungee runs and giant games packages. Our most popular hires are our bucking broncos, surf simulators and last man standing games. Contact us for entertainment at your big day, today!

romance

REAL WEDDING

RU S T I C

Samantha and Clive’s wedding at Humber Barn enjoyed a romantic rustic theme with some modern touches Images courtesy of Eyecandy Photography

S

amantha and Clive had been friends for a few years before they became a couple. “We had spent many evenings out together and I was attracted to Clive because he was intellectual, had good values, held a respectful job, was kind-hearted and loved life,” Samantha tells us. Clive adds, “I always thought that Samantha is beautiful and has a kind heart and always see the best in people.”

The couple became engaged at home during a surprise proposal. “Clive asked me to marry him after his eldest daughter’s wedding in August 2019,” Samantha says. “He didn’t get down on one knee because he thought he wouldn’t be able to get back up (that’s his excuse, anyway!) Instead, he leaned over the dining room chair and produced a beautiful diamond solitaire ring which was a wonderful surprise.”

Samantha Louise French and Clive Geoffrey Nicholls married on 5th July 2021 at Saint Martin’s Church, Barton, Torquay followed by a reception at Humber Barn in Bishopsteignton, Devon.

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rch and being tion when I arrived at the chu I was excited to see Clive’s reac rch was the icing on the cake. able to mar ry at our local chu

We wanted a roma ntic theme to suit our rustic venue wi so we decided on th some modern tou a white, sage-gree ches n, silver and oak colou dad passed away r theme. Sadly, Cl several years ago, ive ’s so I never got to meet structural engineer him, but he was a who set up his ow n local business an worked as a wood d in his spare tim turner. His favour e ite was oak and we wanted to reflect th our day so that it at in represented him.

We loved our chosen reception venue, Humber Barn, including the grounds with stunning views.

We chose soft white drapes for the backs of the chairs and on every other chair, we had a foliage spray , having seen this idea in a wedding magazine.

filled with faux 16 square-shaped glass vases I made our centrepieces using were placed on ese Th us and white trailing flowers. antique white roses, eucalypt rated jam jars deco and d by clear scatter crystals mir rored plates and sur rounde place setting so each at ced duplicates of the menus with string lights inside. I pla place settings the e mad t they had ordered! I also that ever yone remembered wha . that I decorated with crystals 32

age and flower We had four tall artificial foli entrance and exits displays in urns placed at the faux heart-shaped of the venue. We also had a patio doors. blossom tree at each end of the

We decided on table numbers because we couldn’t decide on a specific theme and our place names were mad e by myself in plain white wit h an antique rose on the front and three sma ll crystals for some added blin g.

REAL WEDDING

ed’ printed on them ve’ and ‘just marri ‘lo th wi s eet sw I bought to give as favours. to individual bags in ch ea of r fou t and pu

I had fresh white and greens flowers in my bridal bouquet, the maid-of-honour’s bouquet and the bridesmaids’ posies. We also had corsages and buttonholes to mat ch.

We had a selection of wedding décor pieces placed around the venue that looked great.

looked great! t flavours tasted delicious and Our three-tier cake in differen cake! case we did not have enough We also had cupcakes just in

Clive made some signs for dire ctions for the dancefloor, sweetie cart and photo booth using an old pallet.

We had a welcome sign printed to match the wedding invitations that stood at the entrance to the venue.

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“Our delicious catering was provided by the talented team at Humber Barn.”

I wore a beautiful gown by Romant ica of Devon, calle We hired a beautiful vintage convertible Rolls-Royce Corniche that was wanted a fishtail sty d Opal. I le to enhance my fig royalty! like felt we – July in ure and had been day sunny perfect for a hot dresses for ages an searching for d was thinking th at I would have to afield. It was by travel further chance that Clive an d I went shopping and I stopped by in Plymouth the Serenity bridal boutique and there it was!

gth veil trimmed e ivory fingertip-len ok sp be a th wi dress nd.

I accessorised my de sparkly headba so had a custom-ma al I d an ce la th wi I purchased some ivory satin shoes with a small heel at a wedding fair that were perfect and Clive gifted me some jewellery that I wore on the day.

ed so handsome! His Clive wore a navy suit and look single-breasted suit. groomsmen also wore a navy

Our bridesmaids looked stun ning in their sage-green sleeveless dresses and the flowergirls looked oh-so-cute in their ivor y dresses teamed with charm bracelets.

We hired a live band for the evening entertain ment, a bouncy castle went down a treat wi that th the young ones, out doo r garden games for the adults and children to enjoy, and a mirror ph oto booth.

THE DREAM TEAM Photographer, Eyecandy Weddings, 07590 529 186, www.eyecandy-photography.co.uk | Ceremony, Saint Martin’s Church, Barton, Torquay, http://saintmartinsbarton.co.uk/p/Home | Reception venue and catering, Humber Barn, 01626 779 981, www.facebook.com/Humberbarn Bride’s dress, Serenity, 01626 201 055, www.serenitydreams.co.uk | Bride’s accessories, Brides at Waterfields, 01803 294 411, https://bridesatwaterfields.co.uk | Hair and make-up, Changing Faces, 07756 535 091, www.changingfaces.net | Groom’s suit, Moss Bros (Exeter store), 01392 270 520, www.moss.co.uk | Wedding cake, Sweet Art Bakery, 07737 320 218, www.sweetartbakery.co.uk | Flowers, Barton bouquets, 01803 313 443, www.bartonbouquets.com | Transport, Babbacombe Cars, 01803 326 450, www.babbacombecars.co.uk | Stationery, Brightsea, 01392 360 616, www.brightsea.co.uk | Entertainment, Captain Atlantic, 0845 226 8591, www.captainatlantic.co.uk | Bouncy castle, Mane Events, 01803 295 278, www.mane-events.co.uk | Chair decorations, Wild Floral Events, 07933 758 104, www.wildfloralevents.co.uk Pedestal and large floral heart arrangement, Torbay Display, 01803 327 154, www.torbaydisplay.co.uk | Table centrepieces, venue signage and seating plans, Ti Amo Wedding Venue Stylists, 07724 982 222, https://tiamoweddings.co.uk | Mirror photo booth hire, Lee Brewer Photography, 07789 274 303, https://southwestphotoandfilm.com/selfie-mirror-offer | Bridesmaids’ dresses, www.quizclothing.co.uk Flowergirl dresses, www.debenhams.com 34

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the farm

DOWN ON Vicky and Jon’s laid-back country wedding was decorated with a pretty pink and sage-green theme Images courtesy of Peter Mcdonald

Victoria Higley (known as Vicky) and Jonathon Ball (known as Jon) married on 4th September 2021 at Bridle & Groom Weddings Ltd in Liskeard.

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V

icky and Jon met in a pub on a night out 10 years ago.

“We had mutual friends in common so we exchanged telephone numbers,” Vicky tells us. “We went on our first date the following day and have seen each other every day since then!”

The couple became engaged in May 2021. “I had been nagging Jon for several years to get married but he wasn’t interested in marriage,” Vicky tells us. “During a walk in the woods with our children and dogs one day, I made a ring from a dandelion for our little girl who pointed out that it didn’t fit my finger because it was too big. I told her to hand it to daddy and ask him to marry mummy! Jon placed it in his pocket and didn’t say anything about it until we arrived home when he pulled it from his pocket and told me that it was about time we got married!”

SETTING THE SCENE

REAL WEDDINGS

“One of my best friends read a poem that had been written by a friend who is no longer with us which was special. We also displayed a photograph of my brother, who is no longer here, that took pride of place next to the cake which helped include him in our day.” – Vicky

The venue that the couple chose to get married at was a new one.

“We fell in love with it when we first viewed it and liked the fact that no other couple had ever married there,” Vicky tells us. “Animals were running around that we knew would keep the children happy, and the picturesque grounds provided a beautiful backdrop for photographs.”

The couple chose a pink and sage-green rustic theme with high tea as the wedding breakfast and a hog roast during the evening using freerange meat produced at the farm. “The family-run team made our table plan using a silver picture frame mounted on an easel which was part of our wedding package,” Vicky tells us. “The tables were labelled with log rounds placed on natural log bases and my mum, Margaret, hand-wrote our place names using cards decorated with hessian. Our centrepieces were jugs brimming with roses, lisianthus, alstroemeria, gypsophila, ivy, ferns, grasses and eucalyptus and our favours were wax melts presented in hexagonalshaped ivory boxes with a flower on top for the ladies and chocolate and a bottle opener key for the men. The children were given personalised clipboards with colouring pens to keep them amused.”

Vicky chose their four-tier cake which consisted of a brandy-soaked traditional fruit cake base, a chocolate tier,

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REAL WEDDINGS “Two days before our wedding, I visited the venue for a flower day with my mum, auntie and sister and Jon and his best man even popped in!” Vicky tells us. “My mum turned out to be a talented arranger and, having selected the blooms to match the mintgreen and rose-pink theme, she, along with the team, created two bouquets, a flower ball for our bridesmaid and the pretty table decoration for the registrar’s table.” – Vicky

a lemon drizzle cake and a special rainbow tier. “A three-tier cake is included in all wedding packages at the venue and because our celebration was the first wedding to take place there, the rainbow-coloured layer marked the occasion.”

LOOKING THE PART Vicky wore a fit-and-flare strapless dress with lace appliqué from the Phil Collins bridal collection. “I adored this style as soon as I tried it on,” she tells us. “I accessorised it with a crystal headband and a hip-length, single-layered veil.”

Jon and the groomsmen wore Schöffel shirts and tweed waistcoats with olive green moleskin trousers and brown brogues. “Our beautiful bridesmaids wore sage-green gowns that we had altered to fit them perfectly,” Vicky explains.

TIME TO CELEBRATE The couple hired the magician Jon Martin to entertain their guests during the day. “He performed card tricks which kept everyone amused,” they tell us. Vicky and Jon also booked a DJ for the entire day who played subtle music during the afternoon reception followed by an evening disco after their first dance.

The animals at the farm also provided plenty of entertainment.

“We loved taking a moment, just the two of us, walking to meet the horse and donkeys,” Vicky tells us. “One of the sheep came and ate my bouquet whilst we were having our couple portraits taken which Jon found highly amusing!”

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“We didn’t hire any transport, we used our own cars (and a friend’s white BMW) decorated with ribbons. The Carte Blache golf cart was used to transport the guests around the venue and there was also a wedding tandem which provided plenty of fun!” – Vicky and Jon

THE DREAM TEAM Venue, catering, cake and flowers, Bridle & Groom Weddings Ltd, 07932 976 167, www.blackwaterfarmcornwall.co.uk Photographer, Peter Mcdonald, 07773 099 913 | Bride’s dress, Two for Joy Bridal, 07767 646 337, https://twoforjoybridal.co.uk Hair and make-up, Stylistics (Karen Laurence), www.facebook.com/pages/category/Hair-Salon/Stylistics-623872777622850 Bridesmaids’ dresses, Amica Bridal Boutique, 01752 214 040, www.amicabridalboutique.com | Waistcoats, Colins of Callington, 01579 384 468, www.colinsofcallington.co.uk | Additional catering, Cornish-Pod, 01752 822 259, www.cornishpod.co.uk Entertainment, The Remix Disco (Simon Dean), 07974 381 811 | Magician, Jon Martin Magic, 07443 577 497, www.facebook.com/jonmartinmagicuk 40

APPOINTMENT ONLY

Ex-display and Pre-loved dresses all under £600

Ashleigh Meadow, Tregondale, Menheniot, Liskeard, Cornwall, PL14 3RG

BRIDLE & GROOM BLACKWATER FARM

Unique Weddings in Cornwall on a Farm

Conveniently located close to Dobwalls and the market town of Liskeard is the charming, nine acre, family run Blackwater Farm.

Bridle & Groom Wedding Venue offers real farm animal interaction with sheep, a magnificent shire horse and donkeys.

The gorgeous Garden Wedding Room overlooking the duck pond and dove cott is the venue for your wedding and the huge 45ft Marquee lit at night by 120 bulbs and chandeliers for your Wedding Breakfast.

Ready to plan your perfect wedding in Cornwall?

tel 07767646337

www.twoforjoybridal.co.uk

Discover the different, cost-effective yet unique wedding packages available for you to make your wedding special.

www.blackwaterfarmcornwall.co.uk Blackwater Farm | Liskeard | PL14 6SP | 07932 976167

www.jonmartinmagician.co.uk jonmartinmagician@gmail.com linkedin.com/in/jon-martin-24a979105/ magicmaths.co.uk calendly.com/jonmartinmagician /15-minute-coffee-and-a-card-trick-call

Your exclusive use 600 year old Castle situated in 200 acres of Deer park, fully licensed with exquisite marquee sites and accommodation available.

To talk to our team or book your personalised tour please contact weddings@powderham.co.uk or call 01626 890 243 Powderham Castle | Exeter | Devon | EX6 8JQ | powderham.co.uk Powderham Castle_FPA_YDCW11.indd 1

11/12/2017 09:10

To the MANOR BORN

REGIONAL INSPIRATION

New wedding supplier Ivyhouse Photography collaborated with Shilstone, a country manor house venue located in Modbury, Devon to create this elegant styled shoot with a subtle, traditional feel Images courtesy of Ivyhouse Photography

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REGIONAL INSPIRATION

THE DREAM TEAM Ivyhouse Photography | 07931 164 525 | www.instagram.com/ivyhousephotos Venue | Shilstone | 01548 830 888 | https://shilstonedevon.com Hairstylist | 07375 464 881 | www.instagram.com/cindy_beddard_hair Make-up artist | Make up with Tia | 07518 467 379 | www.instagram.com/makeupwithtia_ Florist | H.Watts Florist | 01752 403 617 | https://hwattsflorist.co.uk Dress | Abella Bridal Boutique | 01752 218 538 | www.abellabridal.co.uk Models | Emily and Jordan (as the couple) | Leah and Amber (as the bridesmaids) 45

07922 067 250 www.djcopycat.co.uk

DJ COPYCAT The Wedding Entertainment Your Guests Can Enjoy!

We keep the guests energy going throughout the evening and into the night.

Creating memories that will last a life-time.

www.cornwallentertainment.co.uk 01209 311 444 / 07535370795 UNIT 3, CARDREW IND ESTATE, REDRUTH, CORNWALL, TR15 1SW

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MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

MUSIC IS LOVE

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Ways to entertain at weddings large and small

I

f music be the food of love, play on!” These “ are the opening words of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy Twelfth Night. Apart from a love for words, the greatest English poet, playwright and actor of all times had an infatuation for two things – romance and music. Here, we chat with some of Devon and Cornwall’s finest musicians.

TOP OF THE POPS Looking at data released from Spotify combined with Google search data from the past twelve months, research conducted

by River Thames cruise and dining experience, Bateaux London, has revealed the UK’s most popular wedding songs: 1. Ed Sheeran - Thinking Out Loud 2. John Legend - All Of Me 3. Elvis Presley - Can’t Help Falling In Love 4. Adele - Make You Feel My Love 5. Lonestar - Amazed 6. Etta James - At Last 7. Christina Perri - A Thousand Years 8. Al Green - Let’s Stay Together 9. Whitney Houston - I Wanna Dance With Somebody 10. Bruno Mars - Marry You 11. Norah Jones - Come Away With Me 12. Michael Bublé - Everything 13. Bright Eyes - First Day Of My Life 14. Ray LaMontagne - You Are The Best Thing 15. Jason Mraz - I Won’t Give Up

SAXOPHONIST DANIEL COSTIN Plymouth-based musician Daniel Costin is a wedding and event sax player available to book for celebrations in Devon, Cornwall and worldwide. He has performed at numerous weddings and private events at some of the best venues in the UK. His passion is music and this shows in his outstanding performances of pop tunes, much-loved classics, smooth jazz, dance anthems and laid-back tracks with an Ibiza beach club vibe.

Daniel is extremely flexible, working with couples to tailor a bespoke playlist for each wedding, whether it’s an intimate gathering or a large affair outdoors on a beach, clifftop, in a woodland area or inside a venue.

His dynamic and charismatic personality has got him to where he is today – he isn’t just a saxophonist but an entertainer for each special day. His brilliant album, Despacito, includes favourite covers of much-loved hits including Dance Monkey and You are the Reason and whether it’s a classical or chilled-out repertoire, or a blend of playing alongside a DJ, Daniel loves nothing more than keeping the happy couple, and their guests, dancing all night long!

Book Dan: www.danielcostin.live | www.facebook.com/danielcostinonsax www.instagram.com/danielcostinonsax

LUXURY PHOTO BOOTH Posh Booth is a new luxury open-air photo booth hire located in Plymouth, Devon and covering weddings and events in the South West.

The brainchild of wedding photographers Younger Photography (www. youngerphotography.com), the booth has been lovingly named Bruno and is a deluxe hand-crafted oak design offering high-quality images using professional-grade equipment including a mirrorless Canon camera, high-speed printer and superior lighting to produce proquality photographs. It has two touch screens at the front and back, allowing users the option of having photographs taken and printing them or performing for a gif that can be emailed.

The booth can be hired for three hours which includes unlimited visits, a choice of backgrounds, props and an online gallery for guests to download their favourite images.

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Book Bruno: 07973 800 879 | https://poshbooth.co.uk www.facebook.com/poshbooths www.instagram.com/posh.booth 47

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TIM WATSON SAXOPHONIST

THE BLUE LION BAND The Blue Lion Band are live music experts, wedding enthusiasts and party starters.

They’re a premium and versatile group specialising in high-energy, unforgettable music for weddings, festivals, events and private functions at competitive prices.

Couples can customise the band for their wedding, picking three to 14 talented musicians who infuse every event with energy and fun and pride themselves on filling the dancefloor. The Blue Lion Band musicians have performed with famous artists including Sir Tom Jones, Ellie Goulding, Kanye West and Alicia Keys and are available to perform at celebrations nationwide.

Book the band: 07903 749 499 | www.bluelionband.co.uk; www.facebook.com/TheBlueLionBand www.instagram.com/bluelionband

Image courtesy of www.oliverturl.com

A TOUCH OF MAGIC

OTHER FUN IDEAS

Plymouth-based Lewis Belcher has been performing magic for more than 17 years and specialises in weddings and events where he will break the ice between guests while they’re waiting for the photographs to be taken or the wedding breakfast to finish. Specialising in close-up magic, his tricks and showmanship are amazing, the best live magic that many wedding guests say they have ever seen!

Book Lewis: 01752 936 086, https://lbmagic.uk www.facebook.com/ lbmagicuk Turn to page 13 to read about our exclusive offer with Lewis!

Professional, fun and bespoke saxophone arranger and performer, Dr Tim Watson, is a past chairman of The British Association of Symphonic Bands and Wind Ensembles (BASBWE). He has been very fortunate to have enjoyed an amazing career spanning more than 20 years in the music industry, performing at royal weddings and arranging music for the BBC and Sky and he has been commissioned to perform at celebrity parties and corporate events internationally, playing alongside some of the best musicians at some of best venues. He tells us, “Playing at Glastonbury in front of 300,000 people was a wonderful experience.” Tim adds, “Fulfilling the aspirations and visions of couples getting married that request specific music that’s meaningful to them adds a very personal touch.’

Tim can arrange something bespoke, for example, a memorable piece from when the couple met or a favourite song, whether that’s something mellow or upbeat, from a variety of artists like Led Zepplin, Ed Sheeran, Prince, John Legend or Ellie Goulding.

He suggests that couples think about having music playing before their ceremony, evoking memories for all generations.

A bespoke arrangement to walk down the aisle also creates a wonderful memory, as does ambient tunes played during the registry signing. Music post wedding ceremony during the reception drinks creates a wonderfully romantic vibe with more reflective pieces played throughout the wedding breakfast.

During the evening, club classics and Ibiza mixes alongside a DJ, or independently programmed sets of music to compliment all ages, always go down a storm!

Book Tim: 07779 014 007 https://timwatsonsaxophonist.com www.facebook.com/TimWatsonSaxophonist https://twitter.com/tawsax

❤ Photo booth and magic mirror hire, Booth Fantasia, 07870 463 681, www.boothfantasia.co.uk ❤ A DJ, backdrops, uplighting, personalised lighting and love letters, Devon DJ, 01626 22 15 35, https://devondj.co.uk ❤ Light-up dancefloors, neon lights, champagne chillers and confetti cannons, South West Letter Lights, 07948 357 522, https://southwestletterlights.co.uk ❤ A DJ, DJ Copycat, 07922 067 250, www.facebook.com/djcopycatuk ❤ Hand-picked South West-based musicians, Mama Pik Music, www.facebook.com/mamapikmusic ❤ Inflatable fun, giant garden games, ice cream trike and candy floss bar hire, Mane Events, 01803 295 278, www.mane-events.co.uk ❤ Pianist, Matthew Lane Pianist, www.matthewlanepianist.co.uk ❤ A professional firework display, Sonic Fireworks, 01884 849 222, https://sonicfireworks.co.uk ❤ Everyone under one roof! Crown Entertainment, 01752 936 566, www.crown-entertainment.co.uk 48

Daniel comes with a variety of music and sax shows.

He has attended corporate anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, private events and great venues in the UK. He has a way of blending music which defines his style and giving you the vibe to chill, dance and have a great time. Music had a big impact on his life and career which made him grow and become the best version of himself. Daniel has experience in the industry of music and pays attention to its details. He is creating a name for himself as the Sax Guy for your day. His life passion is music that inspires him and he inspires others, by entertaining people from the way he creates a whole new mood on the dance floor and makes you have an unforgettable and great time with the ones you love and care about. He will provide you with pop performances, classics, smooth jazz, to freestyles such as Ibiza ocean club style and dance anthems.

www.danielcostin.live | contact@danielcostin.live | 07475999685 | Instagram @danielcostinonsax

DEMODA

Organic Hair & Beauty

Multi-award winning salon leading the way in Organic Hair & Beauty in Cornwall

H O L LY M O RW E N N A Tailor-made music package for your memorable day. Pick and mix your favourite classics, modern hits and vintage songs, for Holly Morwenna to recreate acoustically, for your ceremony, canapés or your first dance. Holly also offers a songwriting service to celebrate your unique love story.

Free online consultation with this advert.

Contact Holly today to start planning:

H O L LY M O RW E N N A M U S I C @ G M A I L . C O M

W W W. H O L L Y M O R W E N N A . C O M | 0 7 5 4 3 0 8 6 5 6 9

Specialsing in: VIP Clientele|Balayage|Colour Correction|Cutting|Brows|Hair Extensions|Advanced Aesthetics Instagram: Demoda_salon Find us on FaceBook

Tel: 01209 843446 Web: www.demodabeauty.com

Paynters Lane, Illogan, REDRUTH. TR16 4DS

WHITFORD DESIGNER & MAKER - NOW BASED IN WEST DEVON

Tel 07939057297 | Email whitfordjewellery@gmail.com | Instagram #whitfordjewellery | Please email or call to make an appointment E X H I B I T I N G AT T H E D E V O N G U I L D O F C R A F T S B O V E Y T R A C E Y A N D T H E B R O O K G A L L E R Y B U D L I E G H S A LT E R T O N

EXPERT ADVICE

HOT TOPIC Our experts answer your questions

Meet the expert: Simon Daukes is the owner of Arches Beach Weddings based on Newberry Beach in Combe Martin, Devon. It’s a one-of-a-kind, ceremony-only, DIY beach wedding venue. The Daukes family also own The Ash Barton estate in Braunton, a wedding venue with a manor house and extensive grounds.

Simon says: Arches Beach Weddings is an innovative new venue created following the transformation of the former Combe Martin museum building in North Devon. It’s the sole ceremony-only seaside wedding venue in the country where couples effectively get their own private registry office set beside the sea against the stunning backdrop of Combe Martin Harbour.

The once derelict building on the Newberry promenade has been regenerated into a plush ceremony room licensed for up to 120 guests, looking out to the sea just metres away, with a private outdoor space.

As well as a dressing room and toilet facilities, it also boasts an opulent bridal suite upstairs that can also be booked separately by couples if they wish to stay the night.

The venue is available in two-hour slots and can accommodate up to six weddings a day, with surround sound speakers and a variety of lighting options to create different themes.

Wedding couples and parties can book local pubs, restaurants or

hotels for their reception and guest accommodation, as well as florists, photographers and other regional suppliers for their big day.

Local businesses have been invited to offer their services on the Arches website for free. Our philosophy from the start was that we wanted the venue itself to do as much as possible for the business and benefit of the village. Any local companies that want to be featured on our website only need to get in touch. We are not seeking any commission, we are sending business directly to them. We are not in competition with anyone because nobody else offers a ceremony-only service.

With the motto ‘your wedding, your way’, the aim at Arches Beach Weddings is to offer a large range of options to suit all budgets, from a ceremony and fish and chips on the beach to a reception with all the trimmings at a local pub, hotel or restaurant. The venue is ceremony-only with no parties, no noise and no local nuisance.

Couples can host their entire wedding for under £1,000 in a stunning location. There’s currently a 25% discount for couples with an EX34 postcode. They can choose when they’d like to be married – at sunset, during the height of the summer or when the tide is in or out. We can be very flexible and would love to hear all of your suggestions, for example, we already have people talking about the couple arriving at the ceremony by boat!

07785 386 622 | www.archesbeachweddings.com www.facebook.com/archesbeachweddings www.instagram.com/arches_beach_weddings

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www.panopticgroup.co.uk

BESIDE THE SEASIDE

We wanted a relaxed beach wedding this summer in Devon, can you help?

YOUR CEREMONY, YOUR WAY

Meet the expert: Sabine Smith, the owner of Perfect Day Ceremonies, is a Cornwall-based independent event celebrant covering weddings throughout both regions.

Sabine says: Congratulations on your engagement! You’ve agreed on the date, booked the venue and you’re now wondering about what you want your ceremony to be like. The promises you are going to make to each other on the day are important and you want to get it just right.

Some couples are happy with traditional vows and promises used during church weddings and register office ceremonies because something is comforting and familiar about the words, however, others are looking for something more personal to reflect them as a modern couple. An independent celebrant like myself will write and create your bespoke ceremony that tells your own love story.

Celebrants cannot legally marry you but I, as your celebrant, will make sure that your wedding, civil partnership or vow renewal service is bespoke and memorable for you, your family and friends. You can write personal vows and select readings and poems. It’s worth considering a celebrant-led ceremony because it’s less restrictive and often less expensive because you can be flexible about the venue or setting for your ceremony. Why not consider getting married outdoors in your garden, a field or the woodlands or even on a boat. A wedding celebrant can deliver a ceremony anywhere that has a special meaning to you both.

Once you’ve completed the legal bit, which can be inexpensive at the register office if you chose a midweek appointment, you can then go ahead with your ceremony. Instead of traditional rituals such as the

IN FULL BLOOM

What are the best flowers to use when it comes to creating a wow-factor wedding installation?

Meet the expert: Hayley Scott is a Cornish-based floral installation designer and in 2018, founded Hayley Scott Blooms that has become one of Cornwall’s go-to florists for weddings and events with a flower studio based in Newquay.

Hayley says: Venue decoration is a huge part of your flower budget so if you’re opting for dried flowers and you don’t need to keep them afterwards, speak to your florist about hiring hanging installations instead. Here at Hayley Scott Blooms, we offer pre-made dried hanging installations which are hired for a fee, with colour palettes and bespoke flower choices catered for.

When it comes to wedding flower trends for 2022, colour is back in a big way. Tropical blooms, orchids, colourful anthuriums, and birds of paradise will be popular as well as rainbow pampas grass and gypsophila plus flower clouds in jewel colours.

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https://paulkeppel.co.uk

Please can you give us some ideas for a bespoke, celebrant-led ceremony?

exchanging of rings, why not consider more symbolic rituals like a sand ceremony, ring blessing, jumping the broom, lighting unity candles or involving your guests by asking them to contribute to the ceremony with a poem or a special reading. You can also include children and pets - dogs make very cute ring bearers and music-lovers can book a live music performance.

As your celebrant, I will write your entire ceremony and create an order of service. I can compile your vows or promises to each other with you although some might prefer to write their own but will request that the celebrant read them out loud. It’s entirely up to you, there is no right or wrong!

07977 561 450 | www.perfectdayceremonies.co.uk www.facebook.com/perfectdayceremonies.co.uk www.instagram.com/perfectdayceremonies With shows such as Bridgerton becoming a Netflix hit, the grand ballroom scenes will carry over into wedding settings with pillars and urns in high demand. Country colours of green, white, cream and pale blue will be requested with English garden flowers such as delphinium and hydrangea in abundance.

The two most requested colours for bridal bouquets continue to be blush pink and sage green and there’s no sign of this trend slowing down. With more bridesmaids’ dresses being made available in these shades, brides are seeking flowers to match. A close third of these two shades is terracotta, especially for summer and autumn weddings which incorporate seasonal flowers. Sustainability is key so let your florist steer the flower choices with those which are most in season because seasonal flowers ensure budgets are kept on track and unnecessary imports aren’t required. Use suppliers which are local to your venue, not where you live, to reduce their carbon footprint.

07512 509 968 | https://hayleyscottblooms.co.uk www.facebook.com/hayleyscottblooms www.instagram.com/hayleyscottblooms

Personalised Wedding Gifts Memorable presents for bride and groom

Professional Hog Roasters

Traditional hog roast and BBQ caterers for weddings and events.

With Kittow’s as your caterers, you can relax and leave all the hard work to our professional and friendly team.

To discuss your event further please contact our team on the following: shop@kittowsqualitymeats.co.uk 01726 73005 W W W. FA R R A R - TA N N E R . C O . U K

Suits to buy and hire Scott, Antique Rogue, Ted Baker and Jack Martin

www.kittowsqualitymeats.co.uk

Daws c l ot hi n g com p a ny

Unit 2, Affinity Devon, Clavelly Road, Bideford EX39 3QU 01237 472283 | hello@dawsclothing.co.uk www.dawsclothing.co.uk Proud to be an employee-owned company

MADE TO ORDER BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES WWW. ABIDEMAIDS .CO.UK

Make your wedding day even more

beautiful

with flowers designed by our award winning team

Your wedding flowers are one of the most important elements of your wedding and we will take time to fully understand the atmosphere and vision you have for your special day. We will guide you every step of the way from our first meeting to the fine detail of the colour of the pins in your buttonholes to the beautiful ribbons on your bouquets.

01326 572 243

sales@sweetpeahelston.com

www.sweetpeahelston.com

support ACT THE

DRESSING THE BRIDAL PARTY

hen it comes to a wedding day, whether you’re the bride or a guest, the milliondollar question for everyone is: what am I going to wear? For the happy couple, as they are the stars of the show, it's likely that they have at least an idea of what their big-day look will be like. But for the rest of the bridal party, where do you begin?

First and foremost, the venue setting and theme of the day is paramount. A long flowing gown for bridesmaids will look out of place in a field for a tipi wedding; similarly, the motherof-the-bride in a bold, tropical print, summer dress may stand out again a stately home wedding with a Bridgerton-inspired theme.

Secondly, the season will dictate not only the fashion choices, the colour palette – no one wears pastel yellow in winter – but also your accessory choice.

Boleros, jackets and wrap will be your cosy friend for winter ‘I dos’.

Dresses: www.abidemaids.co.uk; Photography: www.tarastattonphotography.com

W

#SQUADGOALS

.co.uk https://romanticaofdevon

Dresses: www.dandelionsandpearls.com; Photography: https://mariamadison.co.uk; Flowers: www.flowersbydaiva.co.uk; Concept, planning and styling: www.theitaliandreamweddingsandevents.com; Hair and make-up: https://sjbhairandmakeup.co.uk

Fashion and accessory ideas for the bride, bridesmaids, mothers and groomsmen

The top trend for maids in 2022 to be inspired by are: ❤ The romance for retro. The ‘90s are back, more so the satin slip dress. Although it may not be for every body shape, it’s romantic, elegant, comes in a variety of colours, and is on-trend ❤ Royal approval. With our love of period dramas still going strong, Victorian-style ruffles and layers can certainly look the part on a modern silhouette – think statement shoulders, waterfall skirts, hems and across the body – super flattering too! ❤ Technicolour dreamboat. Gone are the days when all the bridesmaids are in one dress colour and style. The mix and match look are here to stay, and this has evolved into not just colour palettes such as all wearing various shades of blue or pink, but also textures. Your bridal party will look gorgeous in a mix of satin, velvet and sequins. ❤ Colour swatch. Undecided on your colour scheme? Be inspired by these trending bridesmaid dress tones: pastels, neutral colours and earth shades – venue styling matching these will complete a cohesive look. ❤ Stand out from the crowd. If your bride squad encompasses a bridesman, or sometimes people just don’t like wearing dresses, then why not match the maids in style or colour but opt for a velvet dinner suit jacket, tuxedo, or rock a jumpsuit!

YOUR LOCAL SUPPLIERS Abide Maids | www.abidemaids.co.uk Dandelions and Pearl | www.dandelionsandpearls.com Romantica of Devon | https://romanticaofdevon.co.uk 55

www.gettyimages.co.uk

TRADITIONAL GO-TO FAVOURITES AND MODERN TRENDS FOR MUMS: ❤ Tiered skirts can create a textured effect to a silhouette and excite a plainer style. ❤ All-over patterns hide a multitude of sins. ❤ Be inspired by style icon Grace Kelly, think tie-front jackets, shirt dresses and flattering cowl scoop necklines. ❤ A shift dress with light overlays is feminine and flattering. ❤ Not comfortable in a dress, then maybe a trouser suit is the way to go. ❤ Separates are a woman’s best friend, comfortable because you can go for a different sized top and bottom, and you can mix and match colours and patterns.

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TOP TIPS: ❤ In the case of a large and luxurious wedding, it is better to opt for a tuxedo or tailcoat. ❤ A wedding in rustic style allows one to put on a country-style outfit – a vest, no tie, moccasins and even a straw hat. ❤ Whichever style, the groom’s suit is simply obliged to fit perfectly on the figure. If it’s made to order, a good tailor will take care of it anyway. If it is bought in a store, then if there are any shortcomings, it is worth contacting a workshop and adjusting it. ❤ For slender figures of short and medium height, fitted jackets with narrowed trousers can be a good option, and for denser and taller men, a straight cut is suitable.

www.gettyimages.co.uk

SUITED AND BOOTED Grooms and groomsmen, and the fathers of the newlyweds too, are certainly taking more pride in their wedding appearance and enjoying the shopping just as much as the leading ladies. Men’s fashion has come a long way in the last decade, as has the more accepting protocols of wedding traditions. Some of our favourite grooms’ looks here at Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding are those gents rocking their long beards and tattoos, in a pink waistcoat with a patterned shirt – oh-so-cool, and unique and individual. Embrace you!

If you want to keep it classic with a three-piece tail suit and top hat, then that’s your prerogative, but if you loved the model on the latest GQ Magazine or Daniel Craig’s look at the latest Bond premier – Daniel brought velvet back! – then it’s your wedding day, so go for it!

Grooms and their support act can put their best foot forward in these trending styles. The bespoke tailored look: if you’ve never had a professionally fitted suit, your wedding day is the occasion. The perfect fit is essential for comfort, the wedding photos, and you can have little personalised elements added such as your initials and wedding date stitched into the lining.

Catwalk looks: yes, few people look like a Gucci model, but if you like the patterned shirt from the SS22 collection then encompass this into your groom look – you need to feel like you! Earth tones: key for bridesmaids and venue styling, this will be a trend for the men on the day too. Think sand tones, beige and brown. For something a little fresher, go for green palettes. The tux: grooms who still adore the traditional tuxedo should go for it, but think about variations maybe velvet (aka Bond-style) or a bright colour, or patterned effect. Adorn and accessorise: make your personality stand out with your accessory choices – here’s where you can get creative; a dashing waistcoat, funky watch, or artsy pocket square and braces.

❤ In the summer, opt for a light colour and fabric such as silk, satin, cotton, and linen. For winter wool, velvet and corduroy in dark colours can look great! ❤ Classic oxfords or derby shoes are the go-to choices for footwear – make sure they are comfortable! ❤ Take your pick of accessories from a tie and tie clip, bow tie, scarf, pocket square, cufflinks, ring, bracelet, watch, necklace, pocket watch, hanky, belt and a buttonhole.

YOUR LOCAL SUPPLIERS Colins Bridal | www.colinsbridal.co.uk/mainsite/mens-suit-hire Daws Clothing Company | www.dawsclothing.co.uk Prudence Gowns | www.prudencegowns.com The Wedding Company Bridal Boutique | www.the-wedding-company.co.uk

MUM’S THE WORD The mothers-of-the-bride and -groom are going to feel under the spotlight along with the rest of the bridal party. This added pressure can feel overwhelming as they may feel a lot older than the bridesmaids and possibly wouldn't have worn occasion wear for many years. These factors can certainly put the strain on what should be an enjoyable experience so as the bride, try to make them feel reassured by offering support and advice; and as with everyone else on the day, they too should feel comfortable and themselves leading to a happy and confident mother!

Firstly, sophistication is key, but this doesn’t mean frumpy! If you love your clothes, then go for a bold colour, or striking pattern but keep it demure by avoiding a lowcut neckline or short hem so you can look back on the photos for years to come with no regrets.

For many women, no matter their age, we all seem to hate our upper arms.

Experimenting with three-quarter-length sleeves, cover-ups and jackets will keep you feeling confident and can add variety to your look and are perfect for winter weddings too to keep the chill off. Accessories are your best friend when it comes to wedding outfits, you can finish a look with a fancy hat or fascinator, and a simple dress can be jazzed up with jewellery and a bright handbag. Many modern mums are opting to leave the traditional hats at home in favour of something a little smaller, such as a fascinator, statement flower in the hair or stunning hair accessories. The key is to complement the rest of the bridal party and not to compete with it; so be aware of colour palettes, themes, and what the rest of the bridal party is wearing.

Lastly, not only should you look a million dollars, but you should feel it inside and out, that's having confidence in who you are and also making sure what you're wearing is comfortable. From head to toe, is the hat the right fit, will it make you itchy and hot and are your shoes the best size and material – after all, you will be on your feet for a large part of the day.

YOUR LOCAL SUPPLIERS Manor Fashions | www.manorfashions.co.uk All Dunn Up | https://alldunnup.co.uk Condici dresses at Jane Louise Cornwall www.janelouisecornwall.co.uk/condici

NOT FORGETTING THE LEADING LADY...

DRESSING THE BRIDAL PARTY

SUSTAINABILITY IS KEY

Bridal dress designer Sarah Treble based in Exeter, Devon makes each gown to order in-house, or by using a small team of local seamstresses, so there’s no waste and nothing is created abroad. The fabric is ordered in and any off-cuts are usually incorporated into new designs. Sarah is proud of her sustainable ethos and loves visiting antique markets for lace, silk scarves, decorative buttons and other gems that can be used when making new dresses.

Sarah has seen an increase in popularity for brides re-fashioning family wedding dresses. She tells us, “This is such a lovely thing to do – not only is it sustainable but it creates a family heirloom with a personal touch.”

Sarah is currently researching sustainable alternatives to traditional silk such as bamboo silk which is already popular. Lesser known is orange or citrus silk, a soft, waste-free vegan silk made using the orange and lemon husks from the juicing industry.

Sarah’s fashionable designs, shown here, include shorter styles, separates and trouser suits.

07944 605 559 | www.sarahtreble.co.uk

GREEN IS THE NEW WHITE Bliss Bridal Gowns located in Newquay, Cornwall is excited to have teamed up with @fieldtoforestfoundation, a community-driven project to fund and facilitate tree planting and create wildlife habitats on local farmland. The owner of Bliss Bridal Gowns, Tracy Ashton, has pledged to plant a tree for every bride who purchases their dress from the boutique. She’ll be working with @woodlandvalleyfarm_events, a local farm in Ladock, where these trees will not only allow her to offset carbon emissions, they will also be improving biodiversity. When they purchase their dress, every bride will receive a certificate and know exactly where her tree will be planted.

01637 851 163 | https://blissbridalgowns.co.uk

EDITOR LOVES When it comes to bridal bouquets, Sweet Pea Floral Studio based in Helston, Cornwall, tell us that the trending colour palette is ranging from more earthy colours like coffee, caramel, and coral to pale blue and green with sage green being a popular choice for bridesmaid’s dresses.

01326 572 243 | www.sweetpeahelston.com 57

www.chrisblackledgephotography.co.uk

Here come the girls County Wedding Magazines senior editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey

I

can’t believe that in just a few months time I’ll officially become Mrs Cullen – eek! Dave and I have been engaged since Christmas Day 2020 and are due to get married this July. With all of the uncertantity surrounding COVID-19 restrictions, it’s been quite a stressful journey.

However, now that the date is drawing closer I’m finally starting to feel excited. In this issue, read all about my experience going shopping for the bridesmaids’ dresses.

DRESSED TO IMPRESS

a Monday when it was quieter and I’m so glad we did! The consultant was absolutely lovely and couldn’t do enough for us. She made Kelly feel amazing and we didn’t feel pressured at all. With no time constraint, Kelly was able to try on every dress that caught her eye – it was a struggle to choose just one, she looked and felt stunning in them all. She eventually chose the same dress as Olivia, and in my humble (non-biased) opinion, they all look fabulous and I can’t wait to walk down the aisle with my beautiful friends.

Overall, shopping together was a nice experience and it was great spending time with the girls, but I’d definitely recommend that fellow brides-to-be start shopping for dresses sooner rather than later – particularly if you have got quite a few bridesmaids! I also can’t stress enough to avoid popular visiting times at your chosen boutiques. It will create a completely different experience and ensured everyone feels relaxed and can enjoy it.

Check out the next issue where I’ll be discussing our search for the groomsmen’s outfits and a last-minute videographer.

Melissa x

www.chrisblackle

.co.uk dgephotography

Choosing who I wanted to be my bridesmaids was one of the easiest decisions I had to make.

My sister-in-law, Nolwenn, has been part of the family for a few years now and I really wanted to involve her in our day, so I was pleased when she wanted to be one of my bridesmaids!

I also asked my two best friends and fellow County Wedding Magazines editors, Kelly and Olivia, who were over the moon when I asked them (virtually) during one of the many lockdowns.

With the easy bit done, we were on to the task of choosing their bridesmaids’ dresses.

With conflicting schedules and unpredictable restrictions it was hard to decide on a date that worked for everyone but we were eventually able to book an appointment for the beginning of December 2021.

Shopping for their outfits was one of the things I was most excited about when we got

engaged. I love all the girls dearly and really wanted them to feel special and a part of our big day, so making sure that they were comfortable was my number one priority. I wanted them to choose their own style and the only thing I asked was that all the dresses were sage green, which worked out perfectly as the girls all love that colour – it was meant to be!

We booked a Saturday appointment and oh my gosh it was busy! The girls had to share a changing room and only managed to try on a handful of dresses before our time was up. What shocked us all was just how long the dresses take to come into the store. Starting our shopping eight months early we all thought we’d have plenty of time to shop around, but we found that all of the gowns wouldn’t be in the store until early May 2022, which would only leave us with two months for alterations – this of course, sent my stress levels through the roof!

Despite all of the craziness and the insane amount of people in the boutique, Olivia and Nolwenn both managed to find their dresses on that first visit; Nolwenn opted for a sleeveless A-line gown and Olivia chose a similar style but with floaty off-the-shoulder straps.

Kelly and I both felt overwhelmed by the first appointment, and sadly she came away empty handed, so we decided to go back on

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Here are some things that we’ve learned during wedding planning.

BRIDE’S DIARY

VENUE

PHOTOGRAPHER

❤ Make sure a registrar or celebrant is available on your wedding day before confirming with the venue. ❤ Find out what is and what isn’t included in the booking price. ❤ Check whether your venue has any sound limiters or a curfew in place. ❤ Ensure the venue has liability insurance in case the worst was to happen. ❤ How will the venue handle poor weather or last-minute changes? ❤ Before booking, check the venue’s COVID-19 policies.

❤ If like me, you’re nervous or unsure in front of the camera book a prewedding shoot – it really does make a difference. ❤ Before booking, decide on what style of photography you like and set a budget. ❤ Lots of photographers don’t have prices stated on their website; find five you like and email them all asking for quotes so that you can compare. ❤ Find out how many images you’ll be receiving and how long your photographer will spend with you on the day. ❤ Most suppliers will require a meal, so factor that into your catering budget and check if they have any dietary requirements. ❤ You’ll be spending a large portion of the day with your photographer, so it’s important you get on well, and they make you feel relaxed.

FLOWERS ❤ Some flowers are seasonal and may not be available at the time of year you’re getting married, so be prepared to discuss this with your florist. ❤ Your supplier will have a wealth of knowledge and will be able to advise you on what blooms will suit your day. ❤ Check your quotes include VAT. ❤ Think carefully about if you’d like real or dried flowers. If you’re unsure it may be worth talking to a few different companies to discuss the pros and cons. ❤ Your florist should suggest ways you can save money, for example, re-using blooms from your ceremony for the reception. ❤ There are so many ways that you can preserve your flowers after the wedding, so it’s worth looking at your options.

WEDDING DRESS ❤ Try on a variety of styles to find what best suits your shape. ❤ Trust your bridal consultant and listen to their recommendations, after all, they’re the experts. ❤ Choose a dress that you feel comfortable in and makes you feel like the best version of yourself. ❤ Wear white or skin-coloured underwear to your appointment. ❤ Start shopping nine to 12 months before the wedding to ensure you have plenty of time to get the gown in-store and alterations to be done. ❤ The shopping process can be daunting, so don’t feel pressured to purchase a dress for the sake of it, when you find the right gown, you’ll know it.

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Editor’s favourite

This white satin eye mask, £10, www.bouxavenue.com, is perfect for getting some pre-wedding beauty sleep!

focus

FASHION Scan to view video

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

FASHION MEETS STATIONERY

Online stationery brand Papier has collaborated with iconic fashion house Temperley London, whose S/S22 bridal dress collection is available now, on a new wedding stationery collection inspired by the ethereal gowns. Decorated with whimsical details including bumblebees and wildflowers, the paper designs showcase the sense of fantasy that the Temperley brand is famous for. The collection is made up of three suites including Bibi, Delft Blue and Spring Rustic that’s inspired by the Toledo dress, pictured.

To shop, visit www.temperleylondon.com and www.papier.com/collaborations/ temperley-london

Thanks, mum!

The latest bridal collection from Joma Jewellery includes stylish gift ideas for brides, bridesmaids, flowergirls and mothers-of-the-bride (don’t forget that Mother’s Day is around the corner!)

These silver styles, £17.99 each, feature charms including hearts and flowers and all of the bracelets in the collection can be personalised.

The brand has recently unveiled the Wellness Collection featuring real semi-precious gemstones that represent empowering mantras and positive vibes. To shop, visit https://jomajewellery.com

GIRLS WHO WEAR PEARLS

The latest collection from www.coeur-de-lion.org offers pretty pearl pieces, from necklaces and bracelets to these drop earrings, £105.

Gifts for little lovelies

Dress to impress

The new Chi Chi London Wedding Collection has launched featuring luxury styles in soft fabrics with hand-designed embroidery for brides, bridesmaids, and flowergirls ranging from sizes four to 26. This is in addition to their selection of elegant guest outfits and accessories. To shop, visit www.chichiclothing.com/collections/wedding-shop 60

Flitzy, the newly launched children’s accessories brand has revealed its collection of jewellery charms championing the work of the WWF. Four unique designs have been created each representing an endangered animal that the WWF is working to protect with 50% of the profit donated to the charity.

The charms are designed for mixing and matching across Flitzy’s collection of charm bracelets and necklaces and make great big-day gift ideas priced at just £6 each.

To shop, visit https://flitzy.co.uk

FASHION

e c a in l LOVELY

This classic fabric never goes out of style, whether you choose a traditional gown or a more relaxed, boho-inspired dress

Scan to view video

Kai by www.truebride.co.uk

Boheme by www.truebride.co.uk 61

Dresses by www.monsoon.co.uk/wedding-occasion

Tinsley by www.boandluca.com

Gianna by www.alanhannah.co.uk

Hera by https://rowleyhesselballe.com

Style no 72208 EMY by Ti Adora by Allison Webb, www.jlmcouture.com/designer/allison-webb

Style no 22-17 by www.berta.com

Celeste from the Blu collection by www.morilee.com

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FASHION

Ekaterini by https://costarellos.com/bridal

Zoe by www.katyakatya.co.uk

Jessica by www.elbethgillis.com

Hana by www.catrionagarforth.com

Scan to view video

Scan to view video

Olive by https://graceloveslace.com Ivy by https://katefearnley.com

Otrano by www.thereformation.com

Nathalia by https://graceloveslace.com 63

ROSWARNE

A UNIQUE, LUXURY, EXCLUSIVE HIRE WEDDING VENUE IN CORNWALL At Roswarne we know that a wedding is more than the best day of your life; it should linger over a few days or more. Our accommodation suites and party rooms are bookable in many combinations to suit the individual requirements of each happy couple.

Set in six acres of grounds at Holman Park, the last ten years have seen painstaking renovation, and this, combined with the fascinating provenance of Roswarne’s service to the community makes this place so incredibly special...

The most beautiful celebrations will be held at this majestic Regency house.

Our unique venue offers everything needed to create your perfect event.

Elizabeth: 07771 518869 | Roswarne House, Holman Park, Tehidy Road, Camborne, Cornwall, TR14 8FD | www.roswarne.co.uk

The frill of it

FASHION

Layers and ruffles adorn dresses in the new-season bridal collections

www.sanyuktashrestha.com 65

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www.berta.com

https://costarellos.com 66

www.truebride.co.uk/733/Brighton-Belle

FASHION Scan to view video

https://katefearnley.com

www.katyakatya.co.uk

www.boandluca.com 67

https://rowleyhesselballe.com

Marchesa for www.pronovias.com

w.too by www.watters.com

www.monsoon.co.uk

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FASHION

www.needleandthread.com 69

White clutch bag with ring detail, £22.99, www.quizclothing.co.uk Ivory flat satin shoes with diamanté trim, £80, www.monsoon.co.uk

White leather sandals with ankle straps, £210, https://graceloveslace.com

AISLE STYLE Ivory suede peep toes with leather trim, £395, www.emmylondon.com

From skyscraper stilettos to comfortable flats and even sliders, the new-season bridal shoe and bag collections offer something for everyone

Rose leather and ostrich feather shoes, from a selection, https://carmenllaguno.com

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White leather sandals with interchangeable diamanté ankle strap, £137.50, https://camillaelphick.com

Dune London has also introduced beaded flat sandals, ideal for dancing, and these fluffy sliders, a must for getting ready in! www.dunelondon.com Dune London’s new collection includes beaded ankle straps, crystal-encrusted heels and satin strappy sandals with a selection of heel heights from tall stilettos to elegant kitten heels and everything in between.

Ivory clutch bag, £220, www.harrietwilde.com

Ivory satin beaded slingbacks, £149, www.rainbowclub.co.uk

Satin T-bar shoes with silver trim, £300, www.pronovias.com Pink clutch bag, £15, www.next.co.uk

Crystal-encrusted sandals, £85, www.paradoxlondon.com

Ivory suede sandals with mother-of-pearl block heel, £695, https://freyarose.com

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Tulle peep-ties with pearl detail, from a selection, www.jimmychoo.com

These pearl-beaded mules are a must for fashionistas! £315, https://dianehassall.com

Hair and make-up by www.yourbeautifuldayuk.co.uk Photography courtesy of Sam Cox

EXPERT ADVICE

Beauty

Q&A

Our experts answer your questions

Meet the expert: Helena Giles is the owner of Your Beautiful Day, a bridal make-up and wedding planning service operating throughout Devon and Cornwall.

Helena says: My advice to brides is to keep their make-up simple and flawless on their wedding day. A natural glow shines through and this is achieved by having a good skincare routine in the lead-up to the wedding - it’s never too early to start this! Invest in quality products that last and always remove your make-up every night before bed. Use a toner, serum and moisturiser and don’t forget

to drink plenty of water every day.

Before applying your make-up, use a primer. I’d recommend a mattifying option which creates a good base. Add a BB cream to even out your skin tone (which is less heavy than a foundation) and follow this with a setting powder and bronzer.

When it comes to choosing a colour for your eye shadow, a favourite eye palette of mine is from Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk Collection featuring stunning pops of colour.

Finish with lashings of mascara, a hint of subtle sheer colour on your lips and a setting spray that fixes everything in place.

Meet the expert: Kimberly Holland is a bridal hair and make-up artist covering weddings in Cornwall.

Kimberly says: Long hair worn down is always a popular style for brides. Flowing hair looks romantic and, if you’re lucky enough to get married near the coast, gorgeous beachy curls are a great choice. To give your waved locks a tousled, casual vibe, try creating some curl using straighteners or tongs, starting away from the root and leaving out the ends because the ends of the hair have a slightly straighter finish naturally. Don’t use too much product during the curling process to keep the waves soft looking and weightless.

Styling with your parting in the middle keeps your look current.

Hair and make-up by www.yourbeautifuldayuk.co.uk Photography credit: www.katefierekphotography.co.uk

SUMMER LOVIN’

We’re planning a late-summer wedding and I would love some make-up and hair inspiration. I have long dark-blonde locks that I hope to wear down and skin that tans easily.

When your hair is worn down, you have plenty of options to accessorise it. A flower crown made with fresh or dried blooms always looks stunning. Keep a couple of grips in your purse on the day so that you can pin small pieces of hair away from your face around the flowers as the day moves into the evening. Hairbands are another Insta-worthy trend, especially the padded fabric ones that come in a variety of colours and styles to match any colour theme.

Braids are a fashionable way of holding as much, or as little, hair away from your face as you’d like while keeping the majority of your hair down and flowing. Pins with pearls or sparkle add the final finishing touch!

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS Helena Giles | Your Beautiful Day, 07412 454 549 | www.yourbeautifuldayuk.co.uk | www.facebook.com/yourbeautifuldayuk Kimberly Holland | KH Bridal Hair & Makeup Artist | 07748 847 055 | https://khbridal.com | www.facebook.com/khbridal 71

SWEET ESCAPE

Tom Ford’s latest perfume launch lets you escape to the luxurious Mediterranean. Costa Azzurra Parfum (£108 50ml, £150 100ml) offers an air of freshness through crisp Italian lemon and evokes a dense coastal forest with magnified oakwood extract and cypress. Plus, cistus absolute and a harmony of ambers capture the spirit of luxury. Check out www.tomford.co.uk

TOTALLY TONED

Beauty

Beauty editor Kelly Andrews reveals all the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be

ESPA’s new Tri-Active Regenerating Define and Tighten Body Serum (£60) aids in tightening and toning for naturally plumper skin. Harnessing the natural power of regenerating sea moss, mushroom, mandarin, plant stem cells and more for a symphony of super-nutrients, it helps to define skin and banish imperfections, restoring the body’s skin texture with luxurious hydration. Naturally enriched with aromatherapy, this body serum features essential oils from rose and geraniums for holistic, seasonal wellbeing. Check out www.espaskincare.com

BUZZ

SMOOTH OPERATOR

Award-winning haircare brand, Innersense Organic Beauty, has launched Serenity Smoothing Cream (£24), a nutrient-rich formula suitable for all hair types delivering a flawless and bouncy blow dry with a sleek look. Baobab and frangipani help to lock in moisture, as well as providing care for hair exposed to heated styling tools and strengthening strands without weighing them down. Meanwhile, vitamin-rich mango seed butter, avocado and coconut oils nourish and boost hydration while smoothing the cuticle to reduce frizz. Find it at www.naturisimo.com 72

A GROWER, NOT A THROWER

Recycling in the beauty industry is notoriously difficult, but here’s a clever invention by award-winning eco-pencil company Sprout World, designed not only to reduce waste, but to give something beautiful and useful back to the planet – recycling at its finest I have to say! Introducing Sprout Makeup Pencils (£9.95), the world’s first zero-waste plantable make-up pencils. Yep, plantable!

Just use as normal and instead of throwing them away when they become too small to use, flip them around, stick the end into a pot of damp soil and ta-da – beautiful, bee-friendly wildflowers will start to sprout within 1-2 weeks. Check out www.sproutworld.com

CHILLED-OUT SKIN

Adaptogens have been used for thousands of years in ancient Chinese medicine and ayurvedic remedies to help mitigate the effects of stress on the body, and until recently have mostly been used in herbal supplements and teas to regulate stress levels. But they could also offer the solution to stressed-out skin. MARA Volcanic Sea Clay Detox Masque (£48) contains aswagandha, a skin-strengthening herb and adaptogen powered by antioxidants, which works to fight free radicals, boost hydration and soothe stressed-out, blemish-prone skin. Find it at www.cultbeauty.co.uk

BYE, BYE DRY

Have the ravages of winter left your skin dry, dull, sensitive, flaky and tight? As we embrace the spring, get your glow back with Q+A Snow Algae Intensive Face Cream (£12). If, like me, you’re reaching for Google, allow me to explain.

Snow algae, also known as watermelon snow, is a species of green algae containing astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant great at improving dryness, sun damage and protecting against free radicals. I’ve only been using it for a couple of days and my dry skin is already showing signs of improvement. Find it at www.qandaskin.com

YOU CAN IMPROVE ON PERFECTION!

Now reformulated to be vegan-friendly and even more comfortable with an extended shade range suitable for all skin tones, Huda Beauty proves that the perfect liquid matte lipstick does exist. The non-drying formula delivers a oneswipe application of vibrant colour coverage with up to eight hours of staying power that every bride needs and is flake-, streak-, smudge-, and transferproof. It also now boasts the thinnest possible texture thanks to the brand’s unique L.O.V.E complex (lycopene, olive oil, vitamin A and E, essential fatty acids) helping to keep lips supple all day long. Find the new and improved Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Lipsticks (£18) at www.cultbeauty.co.uk

BEAUTY NEWS

COOL, CALM AND COLLECTED

Is worrying about irritated skin on your wedding day keeping you awake at night? Check out Organic Series’ new Soothing Mask (£29). Designed to soothe irritation and redness it contains rich amounts of floral chamomile, rose and lavender, sure to leave you with a spring in your step. With aloe vera and hyaluronic acid too, skin will feel moisturised, smooth and protected, while anti-bacterial rosemary helps reduce fine lines and firms the skin. Use at night before your head hits the pillow and wake up to regenerated skin. Check out www.organicseries.co.uk

BODY BEAUTIFUL

Alexandra Kay Time to Ease Muscle Relax (£29) and Time to Soothe Scent Free (£28) Body Oils are natural, organic and carefullyblended massage oils.

They’re created with plant extracts including hemp, rosehip and a new phytoactive CB2-skinTM biofunctional to offer calming and relaxing benefits. As well as soothing tired and aching muscles, these two new oils use innovative botanicals that deliver a comforting, nutrient-rich boost to delicate and sensitive skin. Find them at www.greenpeople.co.uk

EYE LOVE THIS!

FREEZE FRAME

Having seen Skin Proud Frozen Over (£16.95) go viral on TikTok I was keen to know more about this cryotherapy gel moisturiser. Designed to combat tired and puffy skin in desperate need of a pick me up, the gel-to-ice moisturiser hydrates and cools. Infused with anti-inflammatory aloe vera extract and hyaluronic acid it also works to lock in moisture and calm the skin. It can be used as is or popped in the freezer for a slush-like texture and extra-cooling relief. Find it at www.boots.com

Hot on FeelUnique at the moment is Vichy Mineral 89 Eye Brightening Serum with hyaluronic acid and caffeine (£20). This multi-tasker is designed to lighten the appearance of dark circles, make eye bags less visible, hydrate and plump the sensitive eye area for 24 hours and protect the skin’s barrier function. It can even make eyelashes appear stronger and feel silkier. I love the instantly soothing effect it has on the delicate eye area after scrubbing away to remove make-up. It’s an all-round little hero and you can find it at www.feelunique.com 73

NEXT ISSUE

DID YOU KNOW?

MAY/JUNE 2022 AVAILABLE FROM: 8TH MAY 2022

Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding is just one of our many County Wedding titles − find out more on our website yourdevoncornwall.wedding We love featuring local brides and companies. If you want to get in touch email editor@county.wedding for your chance to grace the pages of next issue

T ON...

SPOTrthLaIndGWHest Cornwall No

LOOK OUT FOR...

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Venues with yurts, tipis, marquees and woodland areas

HOT OFF THE PRESS Catch up on all the latest wedding news from around the local areas

DON’T FORGET Check out our website for more wonderful wed-spiration

ON THE MENU

Big-day catering and sweet treats

STYLED TO PERFECTIO Stunning venu N e dressing id ea s

HIC T ‘NinC SHOnR d g resses able wedd Fashio

Need help organising your special day?

Take a look at our free online planning tool

GET YOUR FREE COPY NOW All 19 of our County Wedding Magazines titles are FREE to read online as eMagazines at www.county.wedding - suitable for smartphones and tablets too!

HOT HONEYMOON S Don’t just dream it, book it!

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Visit us online at www.yourdevoncornwall.wedding, www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com

GROOMS’ NEWS The Camden Watch Company’s recent collaboration with tattoo artist Rebecca Vincent launched in December 2021.

The No.27 Camden x Rebecca Vincent design, in either a black or tan strap, features a mother of pearl dial and was inspired by the Victorian language of flowers. In Rebecca’s signature style, this beautiful and striking unisex watch is the perfect addition to any wrist.

Priced £155, from www.camdenwatchcompany.com

Grooms’ NEWS All the latest best buys and product launches

Lush has launched two new hairstyling products. Wig, is designed to train your hair into shape with a matte, firm-hold, no-product-look. Scented with the brand’s Salty fragrance, it’s perfect for keeping hair looking trim between cuts.

Infra Wig is a soft hair styling gel with an invisible no-crunch feel, for subtle hold and supple styles. Fragranced with Lush’s The Hairdresser’s Husband perfume, a mouthwatering combination of grapefruit, lemon, myrtle and vanilla, it’s a treat for the senses.

These lockdown inventions were designed to be used together, alternating daily use.

Both £8 for100g from www.lush.com The new Charles Tyrwhitt wedding collection for spring 2022 encompasses some key pieces which would be perfect for a spring/summer wedding.

The range includes this sophisticated combo: a black tailored morning suit, duck egg waistcoat, luxury silk Italian tie and the regent weave shirt.

Check out: www.charlestyrwhitt.com

Iconic Italian luxury tailored menswear brand Canali, has opened it’s flagship store in London.

Located on the corner of New Bond Street and Brooks Street, conceived by the strategic design studio Hangar Design Group, the interior brings together the aesthetic style of the Canali fashion house and Milan.

Elegantly decorated, the boutique, spreading over 310 square metres, is an ode to the magnificent Milanese residential architecture of the early to mid-20th century.

The project focused on restyling the brand’s identity by introducing a more contemporary dimension to the display space dedicated to menswear. Visible from the street, airy spaces are dedicated to displaying tailored products in the area historically regarded as the most luxurious in London and devoted to prêt-à-porter purchases: Mayfair.

The upper floor houses a VIP Room for ‘Su Misura’ appointments. This made-to-measure service is available all year round in order to meet the brand’s high production standards.

Check out : www.canali.com/en_gb The experts at OnBuy Men’s Aftershave (www.onbuy.com) have revealed the top fragrances as ranked on TikTok. In first place, with a staggering 114,000,000 views is Sauvage by Dior. This woody, aromatic, fragrance currently retails for an average of £112. In second, with 51,900,000 views, is Eros by Versace. This 2013 minty fragrance currently retails for an average of £85. In third place is Bleu de Chanel by Chanel with 45,400,000 views. Bearing similar notes to Sauvage by Dior, this fragrance is also woody and aromatic, and it retails for an average of £102.

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pink

IN THE

Fuchsia, watermelon, flamingo, rouge, salmon, coral, hot pink... the choices are endless when it comes to this oh-so fabulous hue!

Tailored fit pine herringbone suit jacket £119, trousers £80, waistcoat £70, brown boots £129. Visit www.mossbroshire.co.uk 76

The Bedingfeld, navy and pink suede men’s tassel loafer, £165, www.fairfaxandfavor.com

GROOMS’ FASHION

San Shi amethyst cufflinks in 18ct rose gold vermeil, £150, www.tsaixtsai.com

Vegas dried flower buttonhole, £16, http://maryelizabethflowers.co.uk

Blazer, www.riverisland.com

Floral jaquard shirt, black wool trousers, burgundy tie all from www.tmlewin.co.uk

Luxury lounge socks, £25.75, www.heating-and-plumbing.com

Washable reusable face mask, £12, www.thefinecottoncompany.com

Scallop pink silk tie, £35, http://foxandchave.com

Burgundy velvet cotton Chaucer jacket, £553, https://favourbrook.com 77

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HONEYMOON A round up of new openings for post-vow getaways

RHODES

2022 marks the 500th anniversary of the Siege of Rhodes, and premium seafront resort Amada Colossos is brilliantly placed for those looking to explore this history-rich island and the UNESCO World Heritage Centre the Medieval City of Rhodes.

The resort boasts an impressive 140m swimming pool running parallel to its private Blue Flag beach, with dedicated adults-only zones it’s perfect for honeymooners! Its swim-up suites offer luxury for all the family, while the standalone villas provide privacy as well as private pools and sea views.

The resort’s catering offering is phenomenal, particularly the traditional Greek mezze at the taverna, and couples can make the most of these with its flexible packages booking either B&B, half-board or all inclusive to suit their individual needs.

The resort is ahead of the game on sustainable initiatives, including minimising irrigation needs by using native Mediterranean plants, reverse osmosis and nanofiltration technology which saves 50g of CO2 emissions (equivalent to 6km of driving) by consuming the three-litre daily water quota; the resort proudly flies the Blue Flag, awarded for the exceptional water quality and cleanliness of Kallithea beach.

2022 rates start from Є187 for a Double B&B room. Check out https://amadacolossosresort.com

COTSWOLDS

Beautiful country retreat The Feathered Nest Inn has launched a new cottage to add to its bespoke room collection, giving guests more options for a luxury break in the Cotswolds. The cottage sits within the grounds of the 15th­­­-century inn, located in the pretty village of Nether Westcote – it has stunning views of the Cotswolds countryside.

Known as the ‘Little House’ the cosy cottage combines period charm and modern elegance and includes key original features: flagstone flooring, exposed fire mantle and wooden beams.

The sitting room and modern kitchenette feature a comfy sofa and dining area. On the middle floor is a modern bathroom followed by a luxurious double bedroom on the top floor featuring a super-king size bed.

The Feathered Nest Inn offers outstanding 3AA Rosette cuisine and diners can choose between a gourmet tasting menu and an à la carte menu. Owner, Adam Taylor says, “The new cottage represents the new style of The Feathered Nest, relaxed luxury in the heart of the Cotswolds. We wanted to retain as much of the period charm as possible but also ensure we combined this with a modern understanded style.”

The Cottage is available for stays Thursday to Monday, it is family and dog-friendly. Rates start from £465 per night.

Check out https://thefeatherednestinn.co.uk 78

SCOTLAND

If you’re looking for a honeymoon spa destination then check out The Spa at Turnberry; it’s been named as ESPA’s Worldwide Spa of the Month for December 2021, beating 300 spas spanning 55 countries.

Set amongst 800 acres of beautiful Scottish countryside along the Ayrshire coastline it offers an oasis of pure relaxation.

ESPA launched its newest treatment range exclusively to The Spa at Turnberry, using its products to provide guests with a holistic experience designed to relax and rejuvenate the mind and body.

There’s also the innovative ishga range of products, which use locally sourced Scottish seaweed to harness natural anti-ageing properties. All treatments have been designed by the dedicated team of therapists and comprise massages, body scrubs, facials, reflexology and even a specialised massage for golfers.

Guests can enjoy also enjoy the resort’s picturesque 65ft heated infinity pool, whirlpool, a sensory shower, relaxation rooms, sauna, steam room, ice fountain and pool-side bio-sauna.

Check out: www.turnberry.co.uk/spa-at-turnberry

HONEYMOON NEWS

LONDON

Keep your eyes peeled in 2022 for Broadwick Soho, a 57-room townhouse hotel in the heart of London. Home to a Sicilian-inspired restaurant and terrace, rooftop lounge, intimate dining room and speakeasy bar, the refreshingly original property will offer impeccable personalised service in opulent yet cosy surroundings, inspired by the spirit of Soho.

Conceived by a group of friends, who dreamed of creating a hideaway in London’s most loved neighbourhood, the hotel will offer sanctuary and a place for fun, where all are welcome.

The residential style guest rooms, including one Penthouse and nine suites, are all individually designed, with many rooms offering private balconies and all featuring the finest appointments and amenities. Moreover, the hotel’s signature restaurant will serve Sicilian-inspired fare, including a classic aperitivo and traditional sharing dishes. On the upper floor, the wraparound rooftop bar and terrace will be a space for casual dining, excellent cocktails, exceptional vistas and a carefully curated programme of live music and entertainment. For those seeking private experiences, the eighth-floor dining room with views overlooking Soho offers a glamorous backdrop for celebrations and weddings.

Check out www.broadwicksoho.com

LONDON

WORLDWIDE

Oliver’s Travels has introduced a stunning collection of wellness villas for those seeking to indulge in some R&R and hide away from the stresses of modern life in 2022 pre- or post-vows.

Boasting an incredible selection of private and exclusive tranquil European villas, opulent British boltholes, and relaxing rentals afar, Oliver’s Travels has a host of properties for an idyllic wellness retreat. From private yoga studios and spa facilities to state-of-the-art gyms, these luxury wellness villas have the ultimate power to refresh and rejuvenate burnt-out guests.

In addition to offering some of the most exceptional and unusual places to stay, travellers can benefit from Oliver’s Travels concierge service offering a range of benefits from chef services, food delivery, fridge stocking, childcare, spa treatments, airport transfers, private yoga classes, car hire, travel insurance, tours and activities, maid service and much more.

To book, visit www.oliverstravels.com

Joining its beloved Surrey sibling, Beaverbrook Town House is the debut London outpost from the lauded Beaverbrook brand, in partnership with Cadogan.

This heritage hotel occupies two masterfully revamped Georgian townhouses, with views of the leafygreen, Grade II listed Cadogan Gardens opposite ‒ a prime perch on Sloane Street, in the heart of Chelsea.

Inside the hotel, guests will be in awe of the 14 theatrical suites, art and antiques, the 60-cover contemporary Japanese restaurant and bar, as well as benefitting from meeting and private event rooms, and a pretty perfumed garden reserved for corporate functions and private hire.

Rates start from £400 on a room-only basis, visit the website for more information www.beaverbrooktownhouse.co.uk

DUBLIN

Lifestyle aparthotel brand Locke has launched Beckett Locke in the centre of Dublin’s thriving Docklands area.

Tucked behind the 3Arena, the 241-studio aparthotel is a new hub for culture and entertainment in the city. Set around a naturally lit atrium, Beckett Locke features a neighbourhood co-working space, artisan coffee shop, restaurant and intimate cocktail bar in addition to meeting and event spaces for up to 100 people.

Locke’s hybrid ‘home-meets-hotel’ concept has proven popular among guests seeking flexible accommodation for a night, a month or longer. Each beautifully designed apartment provides the space and comfort of home – including fully fitted kitchens, adaptable living areas where guests can dine or work, and ample storage – with industry-leading design and guest experience. This is combined with the social attributes of a lifestyle hotel, including buzzy co-working spaces, original food and drink concepts and a team of local house hosts.

The opening of Beckett Locke follows the successful launch of the 160-apartment Zanzibar Locke, which opened by Ha’penny Bridge in the centre of Dublin in June last year. Room rates at Beckett Locke start from €110 per night. Discounted rates are also available for mid- to long-stay guests. Check out www.lockeliving.com/en/dublin/beckett-locke 79

Gourmet lovers paradise in the Algarve…

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ith 3,000 hours of sunshine and just a three-hour flight from the UK, the Algarve is unique in that it offers a truly delightful yearround destination. Situated in Quinta do Lago and nestled within the privacy and security of the Ria Formosa nature reserve, a scenic swirl of seawater lagoons, sandy islands, salt marshlands and diverse bird life, lies Four Seasons Fairways – the ideal spot to escape a deux. Think warmth, sun and sumptuous Mediterranean food.

This discreet and elegant private villa resort is home to 132 colonial style villas and apartments many of which have recently been newly renovated. Set in beautifully landscaped gardens, each features its own pool or jacuzzi, terrace or garden area and outdoor barbecue/cooking station. The resorts ‘Clubhouse’ area is home to stunning heated indoor and outdoor pools, a wine cellar, gym, indoor-outdoor bar and there are tennis courts and bikes to hire for adventure loving newlyweds.

Visitors to the area are really spoilt for choice when it comes to dining too, here’s a round-up of mouth-watering suggestions…

A VER TAVIRA Enjoy lunch or dinner at this elegant restaurant, accompanied by great views over the city, Gilao River and Tavira Island. A unique gastronomic selection of international dishes with a regional twist and explosive flavours. A tip here would be to make a reservation for one of its exquisite Degustation Menus. Dishes change depending on the season but expect scarlet shrimps, pork cheeks, sea bass, tuna tartar and galician entrecote.

Visit: https://avertavira.com/en/

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ESTAMINE Possibly the Algarve’s best kept secret – an incredible restaurant located on Isla Deserta, only accessible by boat. Few places come close to this family-run gem, where you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood along with other Algarvian specialities on your very own deserted island with 360 degree ocean views. When seen from above, the restaurant itself takes the shape of a crab among the sand dunes, an architectural tribute to their neighbours scuttling along the shoreline.

Clams ‘Bulhao Pato-style’, prawns, deep fried in a delicious secret spice and its charcoal grilled catch of the day, simply can’t be beaten.

Visit: www.ilhadeserta.com/estamine-restaurant

PORTUGAL AMARA If you’re looking to stay close to home one evening Amara, Four Seasons Fariways’ á la carte restaurant, doesn’t disappoint and boasts one of the finest views in Quinta do Lago. The concept of Amara is to twin intimacy with sophistication and Portuguese traditions with contemporary cuisine to give guests an unmistakable and memorable experience. The head chef, Nelson Candeias, is just one of a number of talented cooks whose genuine love for gastronomy shines through in every dish.

Visit: www.amararestaurant.pt

BOVINO Bovnio Steakhouse can be found within Quinta do Lago itself and serves some of the finest steaks and wines around along with an apothecarythemed cocktail menu. The décor is stunning, staff charismatic and it always has a good vibe. For two, the Chateaubriand is well worth it, or the Bovino signature cuts where you get to try filet, rump cap and ribeye.

The seafood is exquisite too and don’t forget to add a side of triplecooked chips or mac‘n’cheese.

Visit: www.quintadolago.com/en/restaurants/bovino-steakhouse

DOS PASSOS Another beachside delight located on Ancão Beach in the Ria Formosa Natural Park and boasts uninterrupted sea views with the dunes as a backdrop. They serve Mediterranean and regional Portuguese cuisine using fresh fish and shellfish sourced daily from the local markets in an Algarvian ‘tapas’ style so super fresh and the octopus salad and grilled sole comes highly recommend.

Visit: www.restaurante2passos.com/home/eng

TOP TIP: When staying at Four Seasons Fairways, if all you want is actually a cosy night in, they have a ‘Drop & Scoff’ service meaning you can order a delicious meal from the VIVO Bistro and have it delivered straight to your door – they drop, you scoff!

For more information visit www.fourseasonsfairways.com 81

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A HONEYMOON IN ST LUCIA

indjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is situated on the stunning Eastern Caribbean island of St Lucia – a honeymooners paradise.

Nestled into 60 acres of lush hillside, Windjammer Landing is a Mediterranean-style resort on a large crescent-shaped stretch of beach, boasting six swimming pools (two of them for kids), a selection of signature restaurants and bars, spa, fitness centre, watersports programmes and well-equipped kids club.

The resort’s 212 guest rooms, suites and villas range from stylish and contemporary waterfront villas to beachfront suites steps from the water’s edge and charming hillside rooms each designed to offer its guests beautiful views across Labrolette Bay and the Caribbean Sea. With complimentary windsurfing, Hobie Cat sailing, kayaking, snorkelling, paddle boarding, pedal boating, day and night tennis, 24hour fitness centre access and water aerobics, guests are encouraged to be as busy or relaxed as they like. Motorised water sports and scuba diving are also available, and the St Lucia Golf and Country Club’s 18-hole course is just a 25-minute drive away. At the end of an actionpacked day, Windjammer’s Spa provides the perfect tranquil setting to relax and unwind.

An array of restaurants and bars cater to the most discerning palates offering everything from elegant dining to more casual tastes either

beachside or nestled in the hillsides overlooking the bay. Those looking for something truly special can book a private dining experience with their own in-villa chef and a personalised menu.

For couples who can tear themselves away from the myriad attractions at the resort, honeymooners can enjoy St Lucia’s natural beauty with a scenic island cruise or rainforest excursion. Adrenaline seekers might prefer to zip-line through the forest canopy or climb the Gros Piton, the tallest of the island’s iconic twin peaks The Pitons – a UNESCO World Heritage site. What’s more, you can enjoy dolphin and whale watching, a helicopter tour or horseback riding on the beach. The sulphur springs, Pigeon Point, Marigot Bay, Castries Market and Rodney Bay are all within reach and easily booked through Jammin’ Tours, the resort’s own excursion team!

Rooms at Windjammer Landing start a US$266 per night with Villas starting at US$448.

For information and reservations visit www.windjammer-landing.com

THE PRIZE: County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort to give readers the chance to win: a three-night stay in a premium one-bedroom villa with breakfast included for two adults. T&Cs apply and the winners can add on additional nights for an additional charge.

Closing date 3rd June, 2022. Terms and conditions apply. Please see our website for details.

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