THE BRIDE GUIDE Sept/Oct 2015

Dress

Venue

Flowers

Mother of the Bride

Groom

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THE BRIDE GUIDE

Introduction

From the moment we put a sheet (or in my case a net curtain) over our heads we start to imagine what our weddings will be like. I remember running into the kitchen, aged about 5, after watching a Flintstones video where Pebbles and Bam-Bam get married and saying “Mum when I get married I’m going to say ‘I Yabba-Dabba Do’ instead of I do!” My mum looked at me like I’d gone mad, thankfully I have grown out of that idea but I haven’t grown out of wondering how my wedding will turn out.

Once you’ve found your Prince Charming and you’ve got the ring you have the incredibly exciting task of turning your dream wedding into a reality. It’s all smiles and champagne until you realise you don’t know the first thing about planning a wedding, most of us have never planned one before so how do you know where to start? Take a step back a breath; you’ve picked up The Bride Guide so you’re already thinking on the right lines.

We’ve been talking to the experts to find out what you should be looking for and thinking about when your choosing your venue, flowers and, of course, the dress. Plus Bridget Foster gives us the load down on bridal make up and Browns of Lockerbie tell us what’s in for bridal hair for Spring/Summer ‘16 and we’ve even squeezed in a little survival guide for Grooms.The one piece of advice all our experts seems to give is to book early.

Your wedding is ultimately a celebration of your love and commitment to each other so enjoy this time, make decisions and choose things that represent you as a couple.

Happy planning

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We d d i n g C h e c k l i s t

THE BRIDE GUIDE

Venue Reception Venue Registrar Accommodation Marquee Hire Caterers Photographer Flowers Cake Transport

Hair and make-up Dress

Shoes Bridal accessories e.g. veil tiara Bridesmaids

Groom & Groomsmen Rings Save the date cards Invites Favours

Table settings entertainment Travel agent Hen do Stag do

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THE BRIDE GUIDE

F i n d i n g t h e Pe r fe c t D r e s s

Officially the venue is at the top of the priority list but you can almost guarantee it’s the dress that’s really at the top of any bride’s list.

Since the moment she said “yes” she’s been thinking her dream dress but when faced with rails of white, cream, ivory and gold, beaded corsets, strapless dresses, sweetheart necklines, fishtails, net skirts, satin, lace and silk how do you find The One? Ailsa Brewster Taylor of The Wedding Warehouse, Carlisle, told us how to go about finding “The” Dress.

Most women start thinking about their wedding dress from a young age, but underestimate how far in advance they need to start looking, Ailsa said: “I would recommend you start looking about 18 months before the wedding. Once you’ve set the date you should start looking for your dress; the longer you leave it the less choice you have.”

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“The best advice I can give is keep an open mind, and trust the person who is looking after you,” Equally, it’s important to go to bridal shops with an open mind. You need to be aware that what you like the look of on screen, or in a magazine, won’t necessarily suit your body.

It’s different for everyone, Ailsa said: “Your shape is unique; people often have an idea about the dress they want, but when they try it on, they hate it. Always consider the fact that everybody is different.”

It’s because ALL wedding dresses, unless bespoke, need to be sent away for alteration… whether it’s an adjustment to the hemline or the bust.

One of the key trends coming off the runways for spring 2016 is the ball gown style so we’re seeing plenty of tulle skirts. Lace, which has been the popular choice for the last few years, has been replaced by floral embellishments.

Most brides have a couple of fittings; one when the dress arrives in store and one or two with a seamstress, but it ultimately depends on how much work needs to be carried out. Many bridal shops say the absolute latest to find the dress is eight months ahead.

“The best advice I can give is keep an open mind, and trust the person who is looking after you,” said Ailsa, “in some bridal shops they don’t get as involved, but we always try to help find something that is perfect for you.”

There’s nothing more disappointing than finding the dress of your dreams and not being able to afford it, Ailsa said: “Budget! Your best friend is your budget when looking for your dress. You need to be realistic about what you can afford, otherwise you will be disappointed.”

“We know what body shapes suit certain dresses. Just try on what people suggest, nine times out of ten brides go with a dress that has been picked by their mother’s and they are always surprised.”

F i n d i n g t h e Pe r fe c t DT r eBsCs

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Wedding Fayre

At Hallmark Hotel Carlisle Sunday 18th October 11am – 4pm The stunning 4* Hallmark Hotel Carlisle is the perfect venue for a wedding to remember, Licensed for civil ceremonies and catering for up to 180 guests

The perfect opportunity to gain ideas for your special day.

Including – •A stunning venue •Photographers •Candy carts •Florists •Cakes •Room dressing

Hallmark Hotel Carlisle, Court Square, Carlisle CA1 1QY 01228 531951 carlisle.events@hallmarkhotels.co.uk www.hallmarkhotels.co.uk

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THE BRIDE GUIDE

The Bride at Her Best

It’s the bride’s prerogative to look her best on the big day but with hundreds of eyes on you (and the groom) all day it can put you under huge pressure.

Demi Moore once said: “I’m a big believer that if you focus on good skin care, you really won’t need a lot of make-up”. It’s not bad advice and it’s worth bearing in mind in the days, weeks and even months leading up to the big event. Sally Lankaster from Oxley’s Health Spa has some advice to help you get your skin wedding photo ready. If you don’t already have a skin care regime in place, Sally recommends you start one as soon as possible, she said: “You want a complete regime which includes exfoliating, cleansing, toning and moisturising. You should start it at least two months prior to the wedding, however

I would begin as far in advance as possible to give your skin time to get used to the products and to adjust and settle.”

It’s not just about having a daily skin care routine a lot of brides opt for skin treatments like microdermabrasion for scarring or a series of facials in the weeks leading up the wedding. Sally said: “I would recommend having any treatments you’re thinking about a few weeks in advance, even a month before the wedding.Your skin will often get worse before it gets better so it is important to give it some time.”

Facials in particular can cause break outs and redness, it’s also best to avoid wearing a lot of make-up for 24 hours after a facial.

There’s always a new skin care product on the shelves which promises flawless skin but Sally recommends one product above all the rest, she said: “Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise!

Moisturiser is possibly the most important product to use for your skin, not only can it help with dry or oily skin but it gives your skin a dewy and youthful glow.”

It’s not all about the face, you’ll want to feel every bit as gorgeous in your own skin as you do in your dress which is where Oxley’s comes in, Sally said: “We do full body exfoliations on a lot of brides-to-be and find it particularly popular.

It leaves you with beautifully soft skin.”

We can’t guarantee that you won’t have a break out days before the wedding but if you think like Demi and follow Sally’s advice you’ll be well on your way to beautiful skin on the big day.

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F i n d Yo u r V e n u e F i r s t

THE BRIDE GUIDE

The first and most important step when planning your wedding is finding and booking your perfect venue.

The dress might be something we all dream of but, the venue can give your wedding the wow factor.

The majority of venues have the facilities to cater for both large and small wedding receptions We spoke to wedding so it’s important to think about how big your co-ordinator Jenny at party will be, with this in mind Jenny, Wedding Hundith Hill Hotel, about C0-ordinator at Hundith Hill said: “The first what to look for when you’re thing to think about is how many people are trying to find the venue of going to attend and whether the venues you your dreams. visit can cater for your numbers.”

It’s vital that you think carefully about your budget before you start looking at venues, having a set amount of money will prevent you from spending unnecessarily. Jenny explained: “A budget is always important.

One of the biggest problems is brides choosing things they want then not being able to afford them at the final stages of the wedding planning.”

“We find cost is the most important thing for brides; they want to know how much they are going to spend but they also look for the little things, like room hire charges. We don’t charge extra for room hire and this is very popular with brides,’’ says Jenny.

You may also want to think about how much additional work you want to put into your big day. Converted barns can make beautiful, quirky venues but most of them need to be furnished, which means sourcing tables, chairs, catering and maybe even carpets in addition to your table decoration.

The venue sets the theme for the wedding so you need to consider what you want.

Food is another factor to think about when picking a venue.

Do you want a Buffet or a roast? Jenny said: “We recommend you choose something easy, simple and that is universal. We recommend people choose a roast lunch because people

know it and generally enjoy it.”

To make the whole experience easier for both the venue and the couple it is important to communicate, Jenny said: “Keep to meetings.Your ideas will change a lot before the big day, so keep the venue informed.”

Jenny said: “We work hard to make sure that the brides and grooms get what they want on the day. We keep in constant contact so that everybody is up to date with everything and to make sure everything runs smoothly.”

By staying in contact with your venue, you can ensure your day runs to plan. All of these factors make up everything you need to think about when it comes to choosing a venue for your big day.

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THE BRIDE GUIDE

The Mother of The Bride

Specialising in mother of the bride outfits Susan Dowes, Genevieive, is a dream come true for any mother of the bride worrying about her outfit, she said: “The very first thing you need to think about is the colour scheme. This will determine what colours you should be looking for. I always advise customers to go for a subtle and soft colour that matches the bridal party.”

“I would advise going with the bride, she knows the colour scheme she wants and she is likely to be the most honest.”

It’s important to choose an outfit you feel confident in, Susan said: “You have to find something you are comfortable in. If you’re not 100% happy this will affect your confidence and the way you hold yourself will be completely different. You want to shine so make sure you are content with your choice.”

But this doesn’t mean you can’t try something new, Susan said: “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Experiment and be daring because you never know, you might try something on that you are unsure about on the hanger and completely fall in love with it once you’ve tried it on. Try on a wide range of outfits before making a final decision.”

“The typical straight fitted chiffon dress, with a little jacket is still very popular at the minute. It’s a classy look and you can wear the outfit again.”

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The Mother of The Bride

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The Mother of the bride is one of the most important people at the wedding, besides the bride and groom, of course. Her outfit should be elegant and complement the colour of the bridal party. For some, shopping for an important outfit like this is a daunting prospect, that’s where Susan Dowes of Genevieve, Warwick Road, Carlisle comes in.

If you really want to stand apart from the crowd, you should buy your outfit from an independent business, Susan said: “I always recommend buying from independent shops, it is the only way you can really ensure that you are wearing something unique and nobody else will show up in the same thing. It would be a bit awkward if the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom turned up in the same outfit.”

Finding the perfect outfit can be a lengthy process, Susan said: “One of the most important things to do is take your

time. There is no rush, enjoy yourself whilst trying on the different outfits and have a laugh. Just don’t panic, you will find something you like, you just need to be willing to try a variety of different styles.”

Instead of looking at it as a daunting task, try and enjoy yourself and use it as an opportunity to spend some quality time with the bride before she walks up the aisle.

Summer 15 collection by

Look fabulous with confidence and style MOTHER OF THE BRIDE & GROOM SPECIALIST.

www.genevieves.co.uk

29 Warwick Road Carlisle

Telephone 01228 524506

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The Mother of The Brid

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Floral Guide

Whether it’s classic Roses or the modern posy of Gypsophila, flowers can make a wedding; they complement the bridal ensemble and brighten up the day. Sarah Dean from Bay Tree Florists, Denton Road, Carlisle, spoke to us about what to look for when you’re looking for the perfect florist.

The secret to planning a successful wedding is to be organised, you should never underestimate the importance of forward planning. Once you’ve booked the venue get the florist and the photographer booked. Sarah believes that the earlier you book your florist the better, she said: “You have to remember that most florists have at least two or three weddings every week, so the best way to ensure you can book your date is to do it as soon as you know it, even if you’re not sure what kind of flowers you want yet. I would recommend booking a florist a year in advance, six months at the absolute latest.

Every florist is different, so the best thing you can do is speak to them and make your own judgements.”

Finding a florist is important, so do your research before you make a final decision, Sarah said: “Ask around, find out what other peoples experiences have been like with that particular florist. It’s all word of mouth and reputation.”

The last few years have seen a rise in the popularity of Gypsophila but it’s all changing, Sarah explained: “We have had such a mix this year. Unlike previous years which have been dominated by roses there has been a huge variety.”

“Gypsophila is defiantly more popular than it once was, but so are so many others. It’s hard to pin down what is going to be the most popular choice next.”

It is extremely important to keep in contact with your florist, Sarah said: “Ask questions; your florist is an expert and will be able to tell you which colours match and which don’t. Keeping in touch keeps you and the florist up to date.

I would recommend getting in touch with you florist once a month, even if it’s just over the phone.”

“Sometimes we do whole weddings over the phone, but it’s always nice to meet the bride in person, you become so familiar with people and it’s always nice to be involved in such an important day.”

The budget is never far from the mind of any bride or groom so think about the season you’re getting married in when you’re looking at flowers, Sarah said: “The price of flowers will rise when they’re not in season so it is important to think about your budget and work around what you can afford as well as what you like.”

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Unveiling the Bride

T HTEH E B RBI R DIED E GU DIED E GIU

Headband

The headband is a subtle addition to the bride’s hairstyle, it may not be to everyone’s taste but it almost always brings a touch of class and elegance to the hair. It can add a bit of sparkle without being too bling or you can give a simple hair do something extra with a hair band that has a bit more detail.

The veil was believed to protect the bride from evil spirits and is used in some cultures to conceal the bride’s beauty. More and more brides are opting away from the traditional veil in search of some more original headwear.

Ditching the veil doesn’t mean your do has to be incredibly elaborate there are so many alternative head and hair accessories and you can be as subtle or flamboyant as you want; it all depends on your taste and your theme.

Tiara

Perfect for making you feel every bit a Princess on your big day. The tiara is the perfect substitute for a veil although some brides do have both, just look at Kate Middleton. Whether you choose a classic design or something more elaborate there’s plenty to choose from.

Comb

Hair combs have been popular for a few years now and are perfect for achieving a classy, understated look. Hair combs are incredibly versatile; they’re great for creating a vintage look and adding a bit of extra detail to a glamorous up-do or loose waves.

Flowers

Flowers are sweet and simple and are becoming increasing popular.

They can be weaved into any hairstyle or they can be worn in a wreath.You can use the same kind of flowers as in your bouquet or go for something more subtle.

Hair Coils

Hair coils are perfect for both the Bride and her Bridesmaids; these take literally seconds to twist in but are simple and effective.These simple accessories stay put and come in lots of different varieties.

They are a brilliant way to decorate the children’s hair without any fuss, leaving more time for you to get ready.

Hair Vines

Hair vines are a brilliant way to complement a wedding dress and easy to wrap around.There is a wide range to choose from and this look is a great way of substituting a veil.They’re a stylish alternative to the tiara and looks great however they are worn.

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Rippon Medical

PDO (Polydioxanone) threading is now available at Rippon Medical Services. All our advanced aesthetic treatments are carried out by Dr A G Rippon MBchB a principal GP with special interests in minor surgery and an Advanced Aesthetic Practitioner.

Polydioxanone Threading (thread lift) is a revolutionary treatment which originated in the USA, it has been used for many years in surgery in the form of dissolvable stitches.

Thread lift patients can see an immediate improvement in appearance and further improvement 10-14 days later when the synthesis of collagen and elastin occurs. The resulting aesthetic effects can last up to 18 months. This procedure is excellent for those interested in a face lift but do not want surgery.

Dr Rippon believes there is a science behind beauty and ageing; he understands that lots of people don’t like the thought of cosmetic ‘surgery’ and he believes modern medical technology can provide today’s consumers with superior alternatives to invasive, painful surgery that may require a long recovery.

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It is important for any client coming to our clinic to experience the best treatment; from the moment they walk through the door until after their treatment.

Rippon Medical Services, pride themselves in customer service and delivering the best practise possible.

Let’s face it, if you look good on the outside you feel good on the inside.

Ripon Medical

H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y

The Carlisle Guide

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Hair Styles

With a hundred things to organise your hair is probably at the bottom of your ‘to-do’ list, but it shouldn’t be. Here, Dawn Anderson, Senior Stylist & Salon Coordinator at Browns Lockerbie and Dumfries tells us why your hair needs almost as much consideration as the dress and what’s in for 2016.

As a bride for summer 2016 myself, this is something that I am already thinking about. When it comes to the hair you need to look at styles and hair pieces that are going to complement your dress and tie your theme together.

By Dawn Anderson Senior Stylist & Salon Coordinator at Browns Lockerbie and Dumfries

There are two big hair trends on the bridal runways for spring/summer 16 and they couldn’t be more different.

We’re seeing the return of some classic hairstyles like the chignon which creates an elegant bridal look.

Some have intricate detail but most are very sleek and polished, embellished with striking hair combs and slides; letting accessories do the talking.

In contrast to the polished look is a much softer, more relaxed approach to bridal hair; the more romantic, the better. Beach waves are key in creating a relaxed hair style on the big day. Hair can be worn in braids or soft loose waves, up or down, deconstructed and undone with lots of fresh flowers to create a rustic feel.

When thinking about how you want to wear your hair on your wedding day you should also think about who you want to do your hair. Keep it simple; if you have a regular stylist who you trust, great! If not, you should investigate salons in and around the area you have chosen for your big day.

Chignon The elegant bridal look

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Hair Styles

THE BRIDE GUIDE

Romantic The Rustic Feel

Essential Checklist

· Research your salon

Most wedding venues will have some recommendations but I always advise checking them out, at least online, to get an idea of their background. Look for hair-up specialists and experience in backstage and editorial work.

It’s essential to have a trial with the stylist before the wedding to give you piece of mind. It’s best to start looking at hairstyles once you’ve found the dress, that way your stylist can tailor the style to complement not only you but the whole look.

· Pick your dress

· Have a trial

· build the right texture in the hair · Have a wonderful day!

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Groom Sur vival Guide

It’s natural to think that the bride is the primary focus of the wedding. The first question people usually ask about a wedding is what was the dress like? How did the bride wear her hair? Did she have a veil? But a wedding is about two people and the groom is not to be forgotten. We’ve compiled up a mini Grooms Guide to ensure you make the most of your wedding.

Get Involved: This is your wedding too. Take some of the stress off your bride-to-be. Give her your opinion, think hard about venues, and choose some songs you’d like to hear. Don’t just stay in the background.

The Suit: It’s a given that your outfit isn’t going to cause as much of a stir as the brides but that doesn’t mean you can’t look dapper. Really think about what you want to wear, do you want something traditional or something more original?

What will you feel comfortable in? Generally the bride chooses the colour scheme but don’t be afraid to put your stamp on the day with your outfit.

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The Speech: For most men, writing the wedding speech is one their most daunting duties but it doesn’t have to be full of gags or make everyone cry; just relax and think. Write a list of memorable moments you and your partner have shared, whether they’re funny, romantic, or just how she makes you feel.Your speech should be about your relationship; talk about how you met, what she looked like when you first kissed her, why you wanted to marry her. All of these things compiled will make a moving speech.

Beauty Prep: Yes, you’ve read that correctly. Just as many eyes will be on you as the bride so it’s a day for you to look your best as well. Most salons offer package treatments to relax and tidy up the groom or just treat yourself to a hot towel shave.

Groom Sur vival Guide

The Stag Do: We all know what happens on a stag night: lots of alcohol, silly behaviour and lots of laughter. But don’t do anything that you will regret; if you think that what you’re about to do could have bad repercussions, it’s probably best not to do it. Think carefully about who you invite or you could find yourself with one eyebrow or naked in a field.

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On the day: Be prepared. Have your suit ready, make sure you’ve broken your shoes in and you’ve had a shave. It’s the little things that women remember so arrange for some flowers to be sent to the bride while she’s getting ready; she won’t forget that. Most importantly, enjoy yourself! You are marrying the woman you love, you will have family and friends around you, so cherish the day!

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Make-up Guide

When it comes to bridal make-up I, obviously, have a lot to talk about. I’ve had a fantastic season meeting and making-up lots brides who have their own individual style and ideas, from glamour, to vintage to natural beauty.

Ultimately, how you’re made up on the big day is your choice. I can guide you and suggest ideas that you may not have thought of but don’t let anyone tell you what you “should” have; every Bride is individual.

Annie and Carragh’s wedding is a perfect example of working with the client to create the look they want. Annie booked me to do both hair and make up for their civil ceremony in Knipe Hall in August this year. Annie knew exactly what she wanted and had sent images of hair and makeup prior to our trial. Carragh didn’t wear makeup and I could see she was quite nervous especially as Annie wanted vintage style make up with flick eyeliner and red lips.

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I prepared Annie’s hair first and then went straight to Carragh’s makeup so she could sit and relax instead of feeling nervous.

Makeup artists approach “none wearers” more cautiously than any other client, we are strange creatures. to them.

We come along, typically, with a large suitcase on wheels full of lotions and potions, we dress in black, our makeup and hair is generally immaculate and our eyes are gazing over your 10 year old mascara in disgust. We take over your kitchen table and window sills and drink your coffee; we tell you what you should have been doing all your life as we stare down at you with a makeup brush in hand and transform you into someone new.

A good, experienced makeup artist understands your apprehension and just wants to help you feel amazing and create a more enhanced version of yourself. If you’re happy we’re happy. Simple.

Make-up Guide

Carragh wore my favourite soft blonde brow pencil by MUA £1, her eyes were naturally contoured with a tight liner in her upper lashline making her eyes whiter and brighter. Skin was kept clear and glowing with my Laura Mercier Illuminator and mineral powder. I finished and completed her look with a Dior Addict lipstick.These are great for a natural look as the lipsticks are so sheer they just give a hue of colour.

I completed Carragh’s look by adding volume and body into her hair, which looked relaxed but polished with her strapless dress.

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Annie didn’t wear a lot of makeup either but she knew exactly what she wanted for her wedding day.

She had a 1950’s style wedding dress with a full skirt which cut off below the knee showing her red shoes.

Classic red lips can be difficult as not everybody suits them; the eyes need to be clean and defined enough so the bride doesn’t feel like a different person.

In my opinion skin needs to be stunningly flawless but natural looking and not heavy and matt. Annie wore my Nars foundation and she choose Mac’s classic red lipstick Ruby Woo to match her shoes.

Blusher needs to be judged at the end and gradually added to give enough warmth but not over do the look.

I completed Annie’s look by styling her hair into a French roll with details of pin curls on the top.

It was lovely to see the two dresses, both very different, hanging up together on the day of the wedding.

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THE BRIDE GUIDE

Make-up Guide

Skin

Lancôme 24h foundation: it’s matt without looking dry, dull and dated. It’s fresh and photographically perfect; ideal for summer, weddings abroad or oily skin.

Channel CC cream: Creates a smooth and well rested look as well as giving a nice bit of coverage as well, which is great for pigmented or blemished skin.

Lips

Julia my bride on the June 6 had taken my advice about Streak by Urban Decay £16; a beautiful summer coral colour that brightens everybody’s skin.

She came back and bought Streak in the new sheer version, which was much more subtle and shiny on the lips. My Bride Katy on the August 8 had bought her own favourite red lipstick. Maybelline super stay 24hr in red passion £4.50.

She told me it didn’t come off when she kissed anyone and only needed to be retouched after food and she knew it wouldn’t dry her lips out.

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Eyes

Chanel Illusion D’Ombre in 81 Fantasme: A client introduced me to Channel Illusion, Fasntasme is a white silver glitter and it is subtly stunning, dab a small amount with fingers over the lid or in the inner corners and you will look and feel like a princess. I went out and bought another colour in the range (95 Mirage More of a dirty gold tone) that I could use as a darker base rather than to highlight.

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