Love Our Wedding - May/June 2024

A-Z of Planning

Fool-proof tips to ensure your day runs smoothly

THEME IDEAS

ARE YOU A BIG FAN OF BRIDGERTON? THEN THESE CHIC IDEAS INSPIRED BY THE SHOW ARE PERFECT FOR YOU! P54

Tissues at the ready! Three fabulous stories inside

Dresses To Suit Your Shape

From apple to pear and slim to hourglass!

With all Pure Bridal gowns retailing below £999, please visit our website to view the entire collection and find your nearest stockist.

www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

Ed’s welcome

Welcome to the May/June issue, as we enter the most popular time of the year to get married – Summer! If you’re saying ‘I do’ soon, we wish you the best of luck and hope you send us your pics after the big day! For everyone else, let’s get planning... This issue we have LOADS of great dresses to show you, and we’ve even helped break them down into which dresses will suit your shape best (page 13). We also have a really useful A-Z of perfect planning to keep you on track (page 81). Oh, and if you’re a fan of Bridgerton, we have the perfect theme feature for you (page 54)!

I am completely obsessed with the new recipes from Slimming World over on page 50 – There’s nothing better than celebrating the sun with cool al fresco dining, without having to worry about the bikini bod! Check them out...

My favourite picks this month!

1. This gorgeous bridesmaid dress called Diaz from Miabelle is a must try for your best girls

2. I am in love with the train on this stunner from Martin Thornburg, style MT3242

3. £45 is a steal for this pretty beaded clutch from Accessorize 4. This whispering Sands fan from Fable England will keep you cool all day –the perfect accessory for only £18

5. Another treat from Accessorize is this chunky pearl headband, £25

Find your style

Find a gorgeous to gown to fit and flatter your figure, from curvier shapes to narrow frames...

www.enzoani.com

www.martinthornburg.com

www.enzoani.com

www.kladekparis.com

www.unbridledstudio.co.uk

FERNANDE

Casablanca

It’s a floral frenzy in the new Casablanca Bridal collection, and we are SO here for it! Here are our top picks...

BY

BIJOU

WE CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF THE COOL DETACHED SLEEVES WITH THIS DRESS. GLIDE DOWN THE AISLE LIKE THE GODDESS

PATRICE

FLORENTINA

CLOVER

BELLISIMA

Silhouette 1: MERMAID/TRUMPET

Sleek and Sexy. This silhouette is ideal for brides looking for a form fitting gown. The fitted bodice hugs the curves of the body before flaring out elegantly at or below

A fairytale dream. The ballgown silhouette is the most magical silhouette featuring a fitted bodice that accentuates your waist before

the knee. This silhouette is ideal for hourglass body-types or brides who wish to create an illusion of curves, as it accentuates the waist and hips. The mermaid silhouette is often embellished with intricate lace, beading or sequins for added drama. Some of our favourite Enzoani mermaid gowns are the three, above - Trudy, Ronnie and Catalina.

trailing into a voluminous skirt. The balance between the fitted top and voluminous skirt is flattering on most body types and is nothing short from

perfect. A real timeless classic. Float down the aisle and live your fairytale dream in Tiara, Rosabel or Clarabelle.

Enzoani: Trudy

Enzoani: Tiara

Blue: Ronnie

Blue: Rosabel

Love: Catalina

Love: Clarabelle

Silhouette 2: BALLGOWN

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO Silhouettes

Find the perfect dress to suit your shape, courtesy of this brilliant guide from Enzoani...

Choosing your wedding dress is arguably one of the most important decisions that you will make when it comes to your big day. With a multitude of silhouettes available it is essential that you understand each

style before deciding on the one. Remember, while it is important to consider your body type and personal style when choosing a wedding dress, don’t be afraid to try on different styles to see what feels

A universally flattering silhouette. A-line gowns have a fitted bodice that flares out from the waist to create a soft A-shape skirt. Not only

is this one of the most comfortable styles for brides but it is also one of the most sophisticated shapes. Perfect for all body-types, the A-line

right for you. Ultimately, your perfect dress is the one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Happy shopping!

Find your nearest Enzoani retailer at www.enzoani.com today!

silhouette is a simple and elegant style that flatters every bride by elongating the torso. Try Trina, Robyn or Casha.

Enzoani: Trina

Blue: Robyn

Love: Casha

Silhouette 3: A-LINE

www.penliv.com/en/stores

PEN•LIV

1. The Dressing Rooms Bridal Birmingham

2. Ava Rose Hamilton Silsden 3. Ava Rose Hamilton Colne

13. Diamond Bridal Cork For

8. Little London Brides North Hampshire

9. Daisy Mae Pudsey

10. Milimili Bridal Colchester

11. Brittany Ann Bridal Thornton-Cleveleys

SCOTLAND

12. Sophia Grace Couture Haddington

4. Along Came Eve Chester

5. The Wedding Dress Shop London

6. Js Couture Central London

7. Dos Hermana’s Clevedon

IRELAND

AMANI

LOVE THE COLLECTION

Romantica of Devon

Elegant, traditional gowns with a modern, feminine edge, these dresses are perfect for any bride-to-be...

BY

ESMERELDA

SAYLOR

WE

CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF THE COOL DETACHED SLEEVES WITH THIS DRESS. GLIDE DOWN THE AISLE LIKE THE GODDESS

GRETA

ADELINA

SUTTON

www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

www.belovedbycasablancabridal.com

www.casablancabridal.com

www.kotapska.com

www.treschicbridalwear.com

www.kotapska.com

www.belovedbycasablancabridal.com

www.specialday-ireland.com

www.treschicbridalwear.com

www.treschicbridalwear.com

www.sophiatolli.co.uk

www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

www.treschicbridalwear.com

www.casablancabridal.com

www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

www.kotapska.com

www.kotapska.com

www.sophiatolli.co.uk

www.specialday-ireland.com

www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

www.sophiatolli.co.uk

LAC2520

Kotapska presents the new Love Actually collection and releases a symbolic campaign for it...

Kotapska presents the new Love Actually collection, consisting of three separate lines, and releases a campaign dedicated to the legendary British film. The campaign features Love Island star, Kady McDermott, and British model Ellie O’Donnell in the heart of London. Along with the classic Kotapska

fabrics, the pearl of the new collection is the diamondshine tulle, which radiates an intense glow. The constant and recognisable element of Kotapska dresses is crystal embroidery, which adds a stunning touch of sparkle to make you shine. Take a look at the beautiful new designs now at www.kotapska.com.

WE

GET ENOUGH

CAN’T

OF THE COOL DETACHED SLEEVES WITH THIS DRESS. GLIDE DOWN THE AISLE LIKE THE GODDESS

www.dessy.com

www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

www.miabellebridals.co.uk

www.dessy.com

www.miabellebridals.co.uk

www.wearerewritten.com

www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

www.miabellebridals.co.uk

www.miabellebridals.co.uk

www.specialday-ireland.com

SummerSnacks

MOROCCAN CHICKEN COUSCOUS

Ready in 40 minutes

INGREDIENTS

2 large red peppers, deseeded and roughly chopped

2 small courgettes, roughly chopped

1 large aubergine, roughly chopped

3 garlic cloves, unpeeled

4 skinless and boneless chicken breasts

1½ tbsp ras el hanout

Low-calorie cooking spray

2 medium red onions, halved and sliced

3 tbsp cider vinegar or white wine vinegar

300g dried plain couscous

250ml boiling chicken stock

2 medium carrots, grated

2 ripe peaches, stoned and roughly chopped

150g pomegranate seeds

A small pack fresh parsley, roughly chopped, plus sprigs to serve

½ small pack fresh mint, roughly chopped

Zest and juice of 1 unwaxed lemon, plus slices to serve

METHOD

Preheat your oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/ gas 6.

Put the peppers, courgettes, aubergine, garlic and chicken breasts in a large non-stick roasting tin or ovenproof dish. Sprinkle with the ras el hanout, spray with low-calorie cooking spray and season lightly, then toss well and cook in the oven for 25 minutes.

Meanwhile, put the red onions and vinegar in a small bowl and set aside to pickle. Put the couscous in a large bowl and pour in the stock. Cover with cling film and leave to stand for 10 minutes, then fluff up with a fork.

All recipes are taken from Slimming World’s collection. Join your local Slimming World group or sign up online for even more recipes, guidance and support. To find your nearest group, visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk or call 0344 897 8000.

©Slimming World 2024

‘Slimming World’ is a registered trademark of Miles-Bramwell Executive Services, trading as Slimming World.

Set aside the chicken and garlic cloves, and tip the roasted vegetables into the couscous bowl. Add the carrots, peaches, pomegranate seeds, herbs and the lemon zest and juice to the couscous. Squeeze in the flesh from the garlic cloves too, discarding the skins. Toss it all together, season to taste and divide between bowls.

Slice the chicken breasts and pile on top, along with the pickled red onions and parsley sprigs. Serve with the lemon slices.

Images: Slimming World/Lara Holmes, Gareth Morgans

PRAWN AND MANGO SALAD WITH COCONUT DRESSING

Ready in 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

1 large romaine lettuce, torn into small pieces

A large bag of watercress

1 large ripe mango

½ large cucumber, halved lengthways, deseeded and thickly sliced

450g cooked and peeled king or tiger prawns

1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped

For the dressing:

4 level tbsp reduced-fat coconut milk

1cm piece fresh root ginger, peeled and finely grated

½ tsp Thai fish sauce (nam pla)

¼ tsp light soy sauce

1 tsp lime juice

¼ level tsp sweetener granules

METHOD

Mix the lettuce and watercress together and divide between plates.

Now for the fiddly bit! Peel the mango, slice the fleshy ‘cheeks’ of fruit away

from the stone and thinly slice the flesh. Arrange the mango, cucumber and prawns on top of the salad leaves.

Put all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl, add a pinch of salt and mix well. Drizzle over the salad and sprinkle with the chilli to serve.

Tip: For even more flavour, divide 1 sliced avocado between each bowl

PASSION FRUIT MESS BANANA AND

Ready in 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS

MAKES 8

Grated zest of 1 lime, plus 1 tbsp juice

3 small bananas

500g fat-free natural Greek yogurt

½ level tsp sweetener granules

4 ready-made meringue nests, broken into chunks

3 ripe and wrinkly passion fruits, halved and pulp scooped out Fresh mint sprigs, to decorate

METHOD

Put the lime zest and juice in a small mixing bowl. Peel and slice the bananas into the bowl and mix gently.

Put the yogurt in a large bowl and stir in the sweetener. Lightly fold in the meringue pieces, followed by the banana-lime mixture.

Spoon the meringue mixture into dessert glasses or bowls, adding a dash of the passion fruit pulp here and there. Decorate with the mint sprigs and serve.

www.elyseebridal.com

www.fableengland.com

www.zazzle.co.uk

www.fableengland.com Floral ring, £28

www.accessorize.co.uk

www.accessorize.co.uk

www.biscuiteers.com

www.stickandcaneshop.co.uk

Elegance parasol, £220

www.dessy.com

Pastel pink bridesmaids, £POA

www.corneliajames.com

Hermione satin gloves, £155

www.champagnepiaff.com

Champagne Piaff, £70

www.unioncakes.co.uk

Weeping willow tress, £POA

THEME YOUR DAY

Hotel Chic

Have you been considering getting married at a hotel wedding venue? Some people may be put off by hotels due to them often being associated with more corporate events, and sometimes the lighting indoors may be a bit more dim, but this shoot shows that isn’t the case at all, and your wedding could look amazing at a hotel venue. This shoot used lots of beautiful light garlands over drapes throughout

to give the venue an added oomph, along with beautiful colourful flowers to add a pop of colour against the white backdrops. And the best bit? Your dress is going to really look amazing against those twinkling lights!

CONTRIBUTORS

Photographer: @thesoulofmylens_ photography

Model: @kristyscholler

Makeup and Hair: @my.beloved.makeup

Wedding Suit: @coles_menswear

Wedding dress & headpiece: @frossweddingcollections

Decoration: @fabricateweddingdecor

Bridal Bouquet: @delphiflowers

Venue: @eastsussexnationalgolfspahotel

A CHIC SMALL LONDON WEDDING

Camilla & Josh

This couple wed during Covid, but they sure had an amazing time! Bride Camilla shares all...

How did he propose?

At home, after a living room date night during lockdown!

What dress did you wear and where did you buy it?

The Rosa gown in white from Catherine Deane.

What accessories did you wear and where were they from?

Short veil - Catherine Deane

Unicorn jacket - Catherine Deane

PIerra Rainbow Leather Heeled Sandals - Kurt Geiger

K Stripe Chain Wallet (rainbow) - Kurt Geiger

What did the groom wear?

Cream coloured woven three-piece suit, orange/gold tie, brown leather shoes.

How did you feel when you saw him up the aisle?

Very excited and a bit nervous! We live streamed the event on Youtube with microphones so you could hear my awkward comments.

Who were your bridesmaids and where were their dresses from?

My three best friends from home; Lucy, Lara and Ella and my sister, Nina. They wore whatever dresses they wanted, things were different as it was a small 15 person Covid wedding.

What was your wedding theme and how did you create it?

We love colour and something a bit different so our outfits and flowers reflected this. We looked on PInterest for ideas we liked and passed these on to my friend Lara who was also a McQueens florist at the time!

What was the highlight of your day?

The ceremony itself, the intimate ceremony was really special and the room was beautiful, with stained glass windows and marble floors.

What was your best buy?

A personalised party bag for each guest with different bits and bobs in like socks, shots of our favourite Tequila and keyrings with our faces on them! The bridesmaids also got a necklace and the best man got a fancy kitchen knife, which was engraved.

What’s your saving tip?

Get married during lockdown when you’re not spending any money! But otherwise I guess putting a little aside every month and maybe fewer takeaways...

VENDORS

Date: 4th June 2021

Venue: Lambeth Town Hall and the Spring restaurant at Somerset House

Photographer: Ben Weatherall

Dress: Catherine Deane

Flowers: Lara Richens (bridesmaid)

A CHIC SUMMER WEDDING

Alice & Connor

An elegant traditional wedding that was all about love, fun and laughter! Bride Alice tells all...

How did he propose?

We were on holiday in Majorca and went to the beach to watch the sunset with a bottle of sangria. Connor suggested we take a picture (I should have known something was strange from this alone) so whilst I attempted to prop my phone up on a flip flop and empty sangria bottle, he was getting down on one knee! I turned around and instantly burst into tears – all caught on camera – whilst the people on their balconies applauded us!

What dress did you wear and where did you buy it?

I wore a beautiful Maggie Sottero off-the-shoulder dress. I bought this from Grace & Lace Bridal in Colchester, and I cannot fault the ladies there. It felt like having extra family at my appointment – not like they were just trying to sell me a dress. It wasn’t what anyone expected but as soon as I put it on it just felt special.

What did the groom wear? Connor wore a three-piece suit from Father Sons.

How did you feel when you saw him up the aisle? It felt like the most special moment. We were so lucky to have so many amazing people there for us but all I could see was him. It was a moment just me and him shared among all of our family and friends – all whilst trying not to cry my makeup off!

Who were your bridesmaids?

I had all my mine and Connor’s nieces as our bridesmaids. They were all aged 14 and under so I also enlisted my best friend Lorella as chief bridesmaid, who was always on hand to help with makeup touch ups, toilet trips and drink refills!

What was your wedding theme and how did you create it?

We are both very laid back, so we went for a very natural look with lots of flowers and little touches of sage green. I felt very lucky to be able to leave for the morning to have my hair and makeup done whilst Wivenhoe House set the whole thing up for us.

What was the highlight of your day?

My highlight was how much fun we all had. We kept all of our photos natural, so we didn’t spend time away from everyone posing, so the whole day just felt so relaxed. We didn’t have any strict timelines either so we could enjoy every moment with our friends and family. Did a few guests have to pop into the bridal suite for a mid-day nap? Yes, they did – a sign of a good party!

What was your best buy?

We felt like the DJ was worth every penny. We asked for lots of old school, fun, upbeat music, and he absolutely delivered all night. He took requests from everyone and kept the dancefloor full. The biscuit table was also worth every supermarket trip!

What’s your saving tip?

Don’t stress about having every extra detail – I promise that you will never look back at what you had hanging from the ceiling or what colour your seats were. It’s so easy to spend so much on all of the extras you feel like you’ll need but really it’s all about the people around you and just enjoying your day.

VENDORS

Date: 28th July 2023

Ceremony venue: Wivenhoe House

Photographer: The Humble Photography Company

Dress: Maggie Sottero

Groom: Father Sons

A SEPTEMBER CELEBRATION

Clare & Stephen

A gorgeous outdoor wedding with lots of elegant details. Clare tells us more...

How did he propose?

Stephen proposed during a weekend away in Torquay in November 2021.

What dress did you wear?

I went to two shops and fell in love with an A-line dress I never thought I would have worn.

And the accessories?

I wore pearl earrings as a wedding gift from Stephen and a borrowed bracelet for the ‘something borrowed’ from my best friend. I wore something old, borrowed, new and blue to follow tradition.

What did the groom wear?

We went to lots of different suit shops and we were returning suits weekly, but eventually managed to find his perfect suit from Marc Darcy after 3 months of searching. Stephen had a green checked suit with a black dickie bow and the groomsmen wore grey suits with a green tie to match Stephen’s suit.

How did you feel when you saw him as you were walking down the aisle?

Honestly, super excited but nervous at the same time. I was nervous but very happy (after a few Proseccos). Stephen was nervous waiting but very emotional. It was more overwhelming than we ever imagined.

Did you have a specific wedding theme and how did you create it?

We wanted to follow the green and white theme so our flowers were mainly based around those colours. We went with a chilled rustic vibe. I love the wooden details of rustic weddings. We didn’t over style as we wanted the venue to speak for itself. The flowers were made up of garden roses, gypsophila, spray roses, eucalyptus. We had a 3-tier semi-naked cake. Our bottom tier was white chocolate and raspberry gin jam, second tier was salted caramel and top tier was a carrot cake.

What was the highlight of your day?

Marrying the love of my life and spending time with all our family and friends. It was everything we wished for.

What was your best buy?

Overall we are happy with every division we made for our wedding and wouldn’t change a thing.

VENDORS

Date: 8th September 2023

Ceremony venue: Holbrook Manor

Photographer: Jon Warr Photography

Florist: Petal Perfection

Make up artist: Sammy England

Decor: Vikki Barrett

Hairstylists: The Lounge Hair & Beauty

Chair sashes: Blown Away events décor

Cake: Love my cake

Photobooth: MJS entertainment

THE A-Z OF

Perfect planning

AALWAYS INCLUDE YOUR PARTNER

It’s very easy to get carried away with all the excitement of wedding planning, and often your other half can feel a little left out. Make sure that all decisions are made together. Make an evening of it, sat down with a glass of bubbles going through magazines and the internet for inspiration. It will build the excitement together and make it feel more like a team effort.

BBUDGET, AND STICK TO IT!

Weddings can be very expensive, especially if you don’t keep an eye on budgets. Those little favours here and decorations there can really add up! Sit together and discuss your key essentials and focus the majority of the budget on that, then use any left for the finer details.

CCALL SUPPLIERS IN ADVANCE

One of the biggest worries for brides on the big day is whether the suppliers are on time

and have everything in hand. Check in with them the day before the wedding and make sure all is in order. On the day, ask your bridesmaids to check in with them again to take that pressure off you, and reassure you that everything is going to plan.

DDON’T BE SWAYED WITH YOUR CHOICES

Everyone will have their own opinion when it comes to a dream wedding, but only yours and your partner’s matter. Don’t let the influences of others sway any of your decisions, and don’t listen to anyone that disagrees with your

choices. At the end of the day it’s your wedding, and you will want it to reflect you and your partner only.

EEAT AND DRINK WELL BEFORE THE WEDDING

You’ve probably spent a fortune on all the food and canapés, so make sure you eat them! Breakfast is absolutely key to getting you started properly for the day. You may have butterflies and feel like it’s the last thing you want, but believe us, you’ll be burning off so much energy throughout the day, you’ll need fuel to keep you going. Not to mention the drinks, too, food is alcohol’s best friend when it comes to lasting the whole day.

FFEEDBACK IS YOUR FRIEND

Think you’ve found the perfect photographer? But are they reliable? You must always check ratings and feedback online for your chosen suppliers before

booking. This is the best way, other than recommendations, to know that your choice is a solid one that won’t fail you on the day.

GGET SOME REST

Needless to say, you’ll more than likely be wide awake at the crack of dawn from nerves and excitement. A good night’s sleep is ideal but not always realistic. Equally, a long lie in (if that’s feasible!) isn’t wise, you’ll have a lot to do in the morning and you don’t want to run behind schedule.

HHOLD OFF OF THE BOOZE

If you’ve got alcohol throughout your wedding, from the toasts and wedding breakfast through to the evening and bar, make sure you pace yourself. Many people have a glass of bubbles with the girls when getting ready to settle the nerves, but make sure you eat well, and space out your drinking evenly throughout the day. You’ll want

to remember every second of the day, it’s a once in a lifetime event.

IINVITE THOSE WHO MATTER MOST

The guest list is easily one of the most stressful parts of wedding planning. Ultimately, you will have an allocation of how many people you can invite, and you need to make sure they are people that you really want there. Your parents may be upset if you don’t invite Auntie Karen who you haven’t seen in 20 years but that’s not up to them!

JJUST RELAX!

Weddings don’t always go to plan, that’s a fact! If there is a mishap, just take a deep breath, delegate resolving the issue to a bridesmaid or usher, and keep going as if everything is normal. No big event will ever go 100% smoothly, so accept that and just enjoy everything else that’s going swimmingly!

JESSICA BEVAN

KKEEP TRACK WITH A PLANNING APP

If you’re not naturally an organised person, downloading planning apps (there are a lot out there!) to keep on top of everything is a good idea. These apps can track your spending, list your suppliers and their details as well as giving you a wedding countdown to build the excitement.

LLIGHTING IS KEY

When thinking about photos, lighting is key. Make sure when you’re getting your make-up and hair done that you’re sat near a window. Look around the venue for props and spots with good lighting that will make for wonderful pictures.

MMINIMOON FIRST

As much as you’re excited to become a Mrs, enjoy your last few weeks as a girlfriend by taking a minimoon with your partner. It’s a great way to relieve stress and connect with each other.

NNEVER FORGET INSURANCE

The last thing you’ll want to think about it something going wrong on the big day, but unfortunately things can happen that are out of your control. Wedding insurance will cover any cancellations or problems, and it doesn’t cost the earth. A definite for security and peace of mind.

OORDER OF THE DAY

Keep an eye on time but don’t completely restrict yourself. Things will take more or less time but it will balance out, just enjoy it and don’t tie yourself to schedules, especially after the ceremony.

PPHOTOGRAPHY IS KEY

The lasting memory of your day will be your photos. Make sure you have a strong list of pictures you absolutely want and

ensure your photographer has the list before the wedding, too.

QQUIT WHILE YOU’RE AHEAD

Enjoy all the day and night but make sure you’re not the last to leave. Leave before everything gets packed up so you can have a time to reflect with your husband or wife, and not see the mess that’s left after a brilliant day. That’s not your concern and it can be a little depressing!

RREMEMBER WHY YOU’RE GETTING MARRIED

It’s very easy to get wrapped up in the wedding bubble, but don’t lose sight of why you’re getting married. Ultimately, the most important thing is that you’re committing to the love of your life and are beginning a new chapter together. That’s more important that any little trinkets on the tables or making sure your guests are all entertained.

SSPEAK UP!

If something’s upsetting you, don’t be afraid to speak up. Don’t let it slide, or worse; dwell on it because it’ll be on your mind all day and ruin the excitement. Have a word with your parent or bridesmaids and ask them to resolve any issues for you calmly.

TTALK TO YOUR VENUE ABOUT POLICIES

There are a surprising amount of restrictions and policies when it come to wedding venues, so make sure you ask all the key questions – what time do we have to shut off noise? Can we have fireworks? Does capacity include ceremony and evening guests?

UUSE YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Your friends and family will be keen to help you with anything and everything, so let them! From setting up the tables to putting up bunting and more, delegate these

chores so you can put your feet up and enjoy being pampered.

VVIDEOGRAPHERS ARE A MUST

In addition to your wedding photos, we always recommend getting a videographer, too. Hearing guests enjoying themselves, the little comments you all make throughout the day, and hearing the music played will trigger lots of happy memories for years to come for you.

WWRITE EACH OTHER A LETTER

Before the wedding, write your partner a card

or letter, and have their best man/ bridesmaid hand it to them on the morning of the wedding to read. It’ll be a tear-jerking moment though, so make sure you do this before the make-up! A lasting piece of the big day you can keep forever.

XX-PERIMENT WITH THE KISS

You’ve kissed your partner a million times, right? But a wedding kiss is different! It’s surprising how awkward it can be smooching in front of your entire family and friends, especially if one is going for a peck and the other for a full on pash! So practise your kiss before the big day.

YYES TO THE DRESS

Enjoy every moment of putting on the dress, do it in front of a full length mirror and watch your look come together. You’ve probably dreamed of this for years (or forever!) so don’t miss the opportunity.

ZZZ ROOMS

If you’ve got some quiet rooms at your venue, this might be where the older generations move to when things get a bit louder in the evening. Don’t forget to check in with them every now and again to make sure they’re ok.

LOVE OUR WEDDING REVIEWS

The Depot

When Laid Back Is The Order Of The Big Day

It wasn’t that long ago that all things wedding meant all things formal, and that included where you chose to tie the knot, as well as the venue for the celebration. Nowadays, it is very different, with the freedom to marry in so many places, and the style of party whatever and wherever you both fancy.

What is key is that your Big Day is truly a day to remember and for all the right reasons; so goodbye to that formality, and welcome to the best time ever.

Right in the heart of London, is a venue that is attracting real attention because, rather than follow what others have done, it has created its own vibrant setting and an atmosphere that is undeniably laid back. The Depot, in N7, was originally an omnibus depot, then a pub called Shillibeers. Its owners Peter McDonald and James Watson of Mosaic Pubs, recognised a gap in the market for a party venue in an unconventional setting, that had a special character of its own – perfect for weddings with a difference.

And different it certainly is. The Depot has been skilfully developed into a contemporary and stylish venue that radiates charm. Tall ceilings, large windows, exposed brick walls and rich earthy tones add a special personality that can be customised to create a rustic or boho atmsophere, or a cool, contemporary ambience with more than a touch of industrial chic. It’s your call. And having the freedom to make those decisions for yourselves makes it all the more special.

Open plan, and with indoor and outdoor space, they can cater to groups large and small - in fact their biggest wedding to date was for close to 200 guests; intimate sit-down meals for, say, 40, are also on the menu. And staging more than 100 weddings last year, including wedding breakfasts, means they know exactly what to do. No guesswork here - just sheer polished professionalism, and passion hich is hugely reassuring for the party-givers. What is especially interesting is how the venue is dressed up – rather than the same old same old, couples can, if they choose, bring in their own decorations and tell the Depot team how they want them used. “Colour schemes are always different, always a surprise,” says team leader Shannon. “It is great to be able to bring to life exactly what a client wants, without the usual restrictions other venues face”.

There are three main areas in the Depot - especially appealing to older guests in the group, is the loft area that looks aver the main floor. Mums and dads, grans and pops, can watch the dancing and partying without being in the midst of it, while the revellers don’t have to worry about the seniors! Animals are welcome, too, which delights those who want a much-loved pet to be part of their big day.

And what about entertainment? The Depot offers a playlist during the reception and dinner - then it is time for the party-givers chosen act. It could be

a singer, or a group; past ‘performers have included drag acts, cabaret shows, an Elton John impersonator, singer waiters, and karaoke. Another example of the lack of formality that is making this place top of the list for many. This is all about relaxing, enjoying and creating memories.

There are four different threecourse menu packages – silver, gold or platinum or a buffet menu, and everything can be personalised to a couple’s chosen preferences. Sit down with the team and work out the food and drinks menu that you want.

The Depot

1 Carpenter Mews Kings Lodge London N7 9EF

T: 0203 218 0083

E: wedding@thedepotn7.co.uk

W: https://thedepotn7.co.uk

There are two other venues under the Mosaic Pubs umbrella. Both are in Greenwich and were acquired in 2019. The Admiral Hardy, adjacent to the famous Greenwich Market, has seven beautiful boutique bedrooms alongside two function rooms that are perfect for small and large gatherings. The larger space, Clarence Hall, used to be a nightclub and has since been converted into a fantastic function and wedding reception room that can fit up to 90 guests seated and 150 standing. The other venue is The Oystercatcher which is conveniently located by the River Thames and looks out to Canary Wharf, the City of London and the O2. The building, almost entirely made of glass, is the perfect venue for a summer wedding with a fantastic outside space.

TESTIMONIALS

“ The team at The Depot were amazing. Their enthusiasm, flexibility and advice helped make our perfect wedding. The food was exceptional, and the space was set up beautifully for a fantastic meal and party. Big thank you to Georgie, Shannon, Magda, and the rest of the team for all their help. We had the best day!”

Billy & Rosie, married 18/03/23

“ The Depot couldn’t have done any more to make our day special. It was exactly what we wanted and we could really relax and enjoy the day. Our guests commented on how amazing everything was - especially the food! Thank you so much.”

Alice , married on 20/05/23

“ Thank you so much for everything you and your team did, both leading up to and on Friday! We had the best day and the venue looked amazing!.”

Beth and Connor, married on 5/4/24

“We wanted to say a massive thank you for your help with arranging our wedding. You were incredibly helpful throughout the whole process and ensured we had a fabulous day :)

We really enjoyed planning our day with you and it was always great to pop in to see you in the build up to it (we’re missing having to plan a wedding now!). You and the team on the day were fantastic at looking after us and our guests.

I’m sure we’ll pop into the Depot for a drink sometime soon and see you :)

Stephen and Christopher, married on 17/2/24

Magic Mike Live

Trying to find a hen party for you and the girls that’s filled with fun, excitement and laughter? Look no further...

1Magic Mike Live is the perfect start, middle or end to your hen do. Why not visit the show’s bespoke bar and lounge Permission at The Hippodrome Casino, which was recently voted one of Open Table’s ‘Top 10 Best Restaurants in London.’ The intimate and atmospheric lounge, located just steps from the theatre entrance has recently introduced a weekend brunch menu offering specially curated selection of

breakfast bites, lunch options and sweet treats to energize guests ahead of an afternoon of fun. You can also enjoy delicious cocktails and nibbles before or after one of the evening shows from Wednesday - Sunday. If you don’t have time to visit Permission, you can order drinks from the comfort of your seat whilst enjoying the show. Magic Mike Live have you covered!

2

4

The show encourages a safe space for audience members to let their hair down and have a fantastic night out. It has an underlying message of empowerment thanks to the brilliant female MCs, dancers and theatre staff and it aims to make every audience member feel included and confident, so, whether there are members of your party who are more outgoing or those who are more reserved, the team will do their utmost to ensure everyone has the best time. Those less keen on interacting with the dancers can use the safe word UNICORN at any moment in the show.

3

Magic Mike Live is created and co-directed by the Hollywood superstar Channing Tatum. This show is his vision based on the incredible hit movies and he will occasionally pop in and see the show himself, so it’s worth booking for that alone! The third movie features dancers and choreography from the live shows so why not have a girl’s night swotting up on the movies before heading in to experience the magic in person.

This show features some of the world’s most amazing dancers who have had incredibly successful careers in commercial dance. Many have supported huge recording artists such as Kylie Minogue, Rihanna, Leona Lewis, Beyonce, The Saturdays, Will.I.am, Jungle, Katherine Jenkins, Pixie Lott and Rita Ora. It’s also a 360 degree experience with plenty of surprises so no matter where you’re sat in the venue, the cast will deliver super sexy dance routines all around you as well as incredible acrobatic numbers, comedy, live music, tap dance and so much more!

5

Why not make your hen do extra special by booking a Luxe Seats package which means you’ll get the best seats in the house, complimentary cocktails, entry to Permission lounge where you will have your own personal concierge who will escort you to the show and make sure you take your seats in good time PLUS you’ll get to meet some of the sizzling hot and lovely dancers from the show. Sounds like a no brainer to us! Magic Mike Live is here to help and has a bespoke groups rep who can guide you on your way to getting the best deal possible when booking a large group of people for a special occasion. Find out more at www.magicmikelondon.co.uk.

Next Issue

• Honeymoon hotspots - The best places to relax after saying ‘I do’

• Real weddings special - extra weddings to inspire your day

• Details, dresses, planning advice, venues and much more...

@kotapska_bridal_couture