YouYou r Wr DA AY Y NOV/DEC 2018 £5.50
Own the
Buy… or DIY?
AISLE! + Stunning shoes + Gorgeous hair + Sparkly jewels
CLEVER WAYS TO SAVE (and when it’s really not worth it!)
DITCH THE DIET! EASY STEPS TO THE BEST YOU EVER
257 Romantic
‘I’m upgrading my ring – why i everyone o annoyed?’
DRESSES
DESTINATION WEDDINGS The COSTS The VENUES The VIEWS
youandyourwedding.co.uk
for every bride
How to make YOUR MARRIAGE last forever
JADE MOUNTAIN, SAINT LUCIA Jade Mountain is a tropical sanctuary featuring two beaches reserved exclusively for its guests. The fourth wall of each suite is open, ofering a one-of-a-kind experience and uninterrupted ocean views. 7 nights bed and breakfast in a Galaxy Sanctuary from £8,700 per person, including flights and transfers.
Luxury like
NO OTHER
Six of the world’s most romantic pool villas, hand-picked by the experts at The Turquoise Holiday Company
SIX SENSES YAO NOI, THAILAND Six Senses Yao Noi, of the coast of Phuket, ofers jaw-dropping views of the iconic Phang Nga Bay and its limestone clifs. Enjoying a private sunrise breakfast at the Hilltop Reserve is a must. 7 nights bed and breakfast in an Ocean Panorama Pool Villa from £4,850 per person, including flights and transfers.
MILAIDHOO, THE MALDIVES Located in a Unesco Biosphere Reserve, Milaidhoo’s spacious and stylish overwater villas come with huge pools and lavish bathrooms featuring rainforest showers, glass walls and outdoor bathtubs. 7 nights half-board in a Water Pool Villa from £5,535 per person, including flights and transfers.
NORTH ISLAND, THE SEYCHELLES North Island was the setting for the honeymoon of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. This eco-hideaway has no menu or restaurant, so guests can choose what, when, where and how they wine and dine! 7 nights all-inclusive in a Presidential Villa from £21,750 per person, including flights and transfers.
• London & he South • Bellissima Weddings, South Woodham Ferrers 01245 323585; Boo Bridal, Hartley Wintney, Hants 01252 849556; Clare Bridal Studio, Bury St Edmunds 01284 488188; Teokath, Wimbledon 020 8971 2000.
• Midlands • Cherished Wedding
Boutique, Mansield 01623 661309; Courtyard Bridal Boutique, Kettering 01536 510333; Wedding World, Shrewsbury 01743 272444.
• North • Agape, Altrincham 0161 928 7980; Bijou Bridal Boutique, Holmirth 01484 690454; Bridal Lounge, Northallerton 01904 633 655; Brides of York 01904 633655; Emma Louise Bridal, Bolton 01204 652035; Eternity Bridalwear, Warrington, 01925 724040; Marrime, Newcastle Upon Tyne 01539 729500; Mears Ghyll Bridal Rooms, Lancaster 01524 770437; Rispin Couture, Scarborough 01723 866099.
• Wales & he West • Olivia Hooper Bridal,
Nr Bristol. Sam Cox, Plymouth 01752 228451; Sentiments, Talbot Green 01443 228080.
• Scotland • Anne Priscilla, Glasgow
0141 222 2504; Rachel Scott Couture, Edinburgh 0131 556 1520.
• N Ireland • Blush Boutique, Belfast 02890 661101. • Ireland • Tracy Bridal, Galway (0)93 380660.• Channel Islands • Bridal Boutique, Jersey 01534 728888. • Japan • Four Sis And Co, Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Gunma 00 81 354 103080. • For more details call 020 8804 1444 or visit alanhannah.co.uk Designed by
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Editor’s letter GROUP EDITOR Michelle Royle EDITOR-AT-LARGE Peta Hunt FEATURES EDITOR Hannah Davies LIFESTYLE EDITOR Hollie Bond ACTING FEATURES WRITER Rachel Avery CHIEF SUB EDITOR RenÊe Peck ACTING CHIEF SUB EDITOR David Jørgensen SUB EDITOR Laura Dean-Osgood ART DIRECTOR Elliott Wilmot ART EDITOR Katie Phipps FASHION AND EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Molly Coughlan CONTENT WRITER Melanie Macleod ADVERTISING HEAD OF SALES, LONDON SPECIALIST Stelios Marcou ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER Jane Cardona FASHION MANAGER Sara Groom GROUP HEAD PARTNERSHIPS Rosie Bee SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE Michaela Godfrey-Sharp SALES EXECUTIVE Lola Randles GROUP ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER, CLASSIFIED Melanie Harris MARKETING AND EVENTS EXECUTIVE Lydia Hockley INSERTS SALES EXECUTIVE James Law-Smith PRODUCTION PRODUCTION AND ADVERTISEMENT SERVICES DIRECTOR Sharon Thompson SENIOR PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Lee Spencer ADVERTISEMENT SERVICES COORDINATOR James Webb MANAGEMENT CHIEF EXECUTIVE Tom Bureau CHAIRMAN Eckart Bollmann CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Kevin Langford COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR Duncan Tickell MANAGING DIRECTOR, WEDDINGS Matthew Gerry PUBLISHER Alfie Lewis IMMEDIATE MEDIA COMPANY LONDON LTD, VINEYARD HOUSE, 44 BROOK GREEN, LONDON W6 7BT Telephone: 020 7150 5000 Website: youandyourwedding.co.uk
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You & Your Wedding magazine is published bimonthly, seven times per year by Š Immediate Media Company London Ltd 2018. All rights reserved. No part of You & Your Wedding may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, wholly or in part, without the prior permission of the publisher. Not to be resold, lent, hired out or otherwise disposed of by way of trade at more than the recommended retail price (subject to VAT in the Republic of Ireland) or in a mutilated condition. Printed by Wyndeham Roche Ltd. Prices are correct at the time of going to press. The publisher, editors and authors accept no responsibility in respect of any products, goods or services which may be advertised or referred to in this issue or for any errors, omissions, changes in price or misstatements or mistakes in any such advertisements or references. Competitions and offers available in the UK only. We abide by IPSO’s rules and regulations. To give feedback about our magazines, please visit immediate. co.uk, email editorialcomplaints@immediate.co.uk or write to Katherine Conlon, Immediate Media Co, Vineyard House, 44 Brook Green, London W6 7BT This magazine can be recycled, either through your kerbside collection or at a local recycling point. To ďŹ nd your nearest sites log on to recyclenow.com and enter your postcode.
S
oon, (for some of you, very soon), you’ll be married. Married! Hitched! United in matrimony! Joined in wedlock! You’ll have a husband or wife – a spouse. And a lifetime together ahead of you. Scary? For VXUH ,QFUHGLEOH" 0RVW GHĂ€QLWHO\ Tricky? Sometimes – there’s no We tell you how to keep doubt about it. Your wedding day through every day smiling ZLOO FRPH DQG JR LQ D Ă XUU\ RI of your marriage on p132 excitement, tulle, confetti and champagne. The honeymoon may mean you can stretch out the heady romance for another few weeks, and then your gift list delivery will appear and that will keep your wedding frenzy alive Turn to for even longer. Then you settle p134 for the into ‘married life’. People will results of our constantly ask (they really will) 21ST CENTURY when they’re going to be hearing the patter of tiny feet. BRIDE SURVEY Other friends will marry and you’ll remember how amazing 2018 the planning was (forgetting those nights when you were THE UK’S BIGGEST making origami birds at 3am). And what most people want WEDDING to know is how to make this amazing, special, breathtaking POLL relationship last‌ forever. How do you maintain your ‘you’ within this all-encompassing duo? How do you compromise without, well‌ giving in too often? We’ve got some superb advice on how to make your marriage strong, and how WR PDNH VXUH \RX ERWK UHPDLQ IXOĂ€OOHG RQ S After I read it, I asked some of my happily married friends for their tips. One said that, in times of frustration, she tries to remember a quote she once heard: “When one person wins, your relationship losesâ€?. In other words, scoring points is, well, pointless! Another proclaimed that spending time with friends without your spouse present is invaluable. Someone else said their key is earplugs at night, while another said that making time for special date nights brings them back together, away from the bill-paying, commuting, and other strains of daily life. LOVING THIS ISSUE? As for me, there really are so many things I could advise There’s plenty more for maintaining a happy partnership – but understanding where that came from! when my husband is ‘hangry’ means we haven’t discussed Our info- and inspirationdivorce in the aisles of Ikea for a long time‌ Here’s to forever!
Michelle Royle, group editor
packed back issues are available for instant download to your phone or tablet via the Apple App Store, Google Play, Amazon, Zinio and Pocketmags. youandyourwedding.co.uk 11
Real love. Real dreams. Real sizes. stellayork.com
stellayork.com 6684
DESSY.COM
Collection 2019 Find authorized retailers at: www.lunanovias.com
Contents ON THE COVER
FEATURES & REGULARS 26 THIS MONTH ONLINE The latest looks and news on your screen
63 STYLING FILES Beautiful ideas, including a stationery special
83 BE OUR GUEST Inspirational real weddings from around the world
111 MASTER PLAN How to shake up the photo booth
112 BUY OR DIY? When doing it yourself will work – and when to call a pro!
118 DEAR Y&YW No need to fret, we’re here to solve your wedding worries
120 PLANNING NEWS All-new discoveries for your big day
127 PICK ‘N’ LIST Use your gift list to bring colour into your home
129 25% OFF AT FREYA ROSE* Gorgeous shoes with a superb discount offer
160
130 BRIDE WARS Would you ever change your engagement ring?
132 WHAT IS MODERN MARRIAGE? Real brides tell us what happens after the big day
134 WEDDINGS UNCOVERED The 21st Century Bride Survey results are in!
234 SURPRISING PLANNING MUST-HAVES Useful and fun things to help with your organising
SOMETHING NEW 35 SWEET DREAMS
57
A fairy-tale idea to wow your guests
36 MATERIAL GIRL Three exciting new theme trends
38 PIECE & LOVE Discover the imperfect art of kintsugi
42 FASHION NOTEBOOK Stunning trends and style advice
48 WELL HEELED Our pick of the best new shoes
36
53 FULL BLOOM Fabulously floral looks from the runways
152
Our pick of the best backless gowns
57 GET AHEAD Be your own princess with a tiara
V
48
54 BACK IT UP
youandyourwedding.co.uk 17
Contents FASHION, BEAUTY & WELLNESS 140 ON THE TOWN Stunning looks for an urban big day
154 ON TOP OF THE WORLD Sparkling style from the rooftops
160 ONE FINE DAY Exquisite gowns in our secret garden
174 SHINE BRIGHT Bold looks that really make a statement
180 GLITTER GIRLS Let your maids twinkle!
182 CALL TO ARMS
180
Our contributors ROBERTA FACCHINI
HOLLIE GRANT
KATRINA OTTER
LISA SILCOCK
Splitting her time between London and Italy, Roberta travels the globe shooting romantic and intimate weddings. She stayed in the UK for our Regal Romance shoot – head to p63 for wonderful country inspiration.
189
From running The Model 0HWKRG KHU XQLTXH ÀWQHVV scheme, to training celebs at her PilatesPT studio, Hollie is an expert in results-driven training. Read her superb advice for staying healthy before the big day on p200.
Mums will adore these sleeve looks
185 TOP TO TAILS Classic suits for grooms
187 MARVELLOUS MINIS The best travel accessories come in small packages
189 BEAUTY BITES New products, including‌ shiitake mushrooms?!
191 WELL GEL Gel nails tested by the Y&YW team
192 WEDDING PERFUMES REBOOTED Heaven-scent ways to wear a fragrance
195 CLEAN UP YOUR ACT Our round-up of essential cleansers
Luxury wedding planner Katrina specialises in beautifully timeless weddings. Her wonderful styling came to life gorgeously at the wedding of real couple Regina and Jon at Hedsor House. You can see how the stunning day came to life on p94.
A dream of a career in food led former TV producer Lisa to launch catering company Black Pot thirteen years ago. In our Buy Or DIY? feature on p112, she shares her top tips on how to work with your caterer to create a perfect wedding menu that suits your budget.
196 THE NEW HAIR RULES It’s time to treat haircare like skincare
ALL ABOUT THE
199 UNDONE ELEGANCE
cover
Beautifully messy updos
200 FEELING GOOD? Effective and practical ways to be at your best
“An understated bouquet and dress are a match made in bridal heaven!�
HONEYMOONS & DESTINATION WEDDINGS
PETA HUNT, EDITOR-AT-LARGE
203 GREAT ESCAPES A special edition focusing on weddings overseas Sheer   powder   in No 10, £40, Chanel
204 VOWS WITH A VIEW Stunning locations for both your big day and your honeymoon from around the globe
204 THE LOCATION LOWDOWN 214 WIN A WEDDING AND HONEYMOON IN MEXICO* Enter for the chance of a fabulous stay at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya on Mexico’s east coast
216 YOUR DESTINATION DILEMMAS SOLVED! Your questions about travelling overseas answered
219 WE DID IT OUR WAY! Real couples who got married abroad tell us how they achieved their dream days 18 youandyourwedding.co.uk
ON THE COVER
EMBELLISHED DRESS, ÂŁ2,025, ENZOANI. 14CT MORGANITE EARRINGS, POA, LE VIAN AT ERNEST JONES. BOUQUET, POA, WILDABOUT. PHOTOGRAPH BY DONJA PITSCH. STYLING BY PETA HUNT, ASSISTED BY MOLLY COUGHLAN. HAIR BY LOU OF LOVEHAIRBYLOU (LOVEHAIRBYLOU.CO.UK) USING BUMBLE AND BUMBLE AND AMIKA. MAKE-UP BY NATHALIE ELENI (NATHALIEELENI.COM) USING ARBONNE
ni alie EleARTIST NathMAKE-UP Lipstick in
“Creating Morning highlights After, ÂŁ16.50, in the inner corners of the Urban Decay eyes will make Liquid them sparkle, eyeliner in and enhance Boot Black, Savage your natural ÂŁ17, MAC Jasmine, beautyâ€? ÂŁ95, Sana Jardin
*TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY
Our guide to gorgeous wedding destinations
Collection 2019 Find authorized retailers at: www.airebarcelona.com
beautifully crafted, perfectly priced.
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visit davidsbridal.co.uk to make an appointment london | watford | birmingham | glasgow
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wedding collection exclusively at David’s Bridal visit davidsbridal.co.uk to make an appointment london | watford | birmingham | glasgow
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White by Vera Wang wedding dresses from £945 | Exclusively at David’s Bridal VISIT DAVIDSBRIDAL.CO.UK TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT LONDON | WATFORD | BIRMINGHAM | GLASGOW
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From sun cream to beautiful bronzers, we’ve got everything you need for your holiday beauty bag
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Work a sexy halterneck dress à la Meghan Markle to wow on your day BERTA
LET’S GET DIGITAL
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Sign up for our NEWSLETTER full of the LATEST WEDDING NEWS and TRENDS at youandyourwedding.co.uk 26 youandyourwedding.co.uk
HALTERNECK HOTNESS
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STYLISH STORAGE
Come w-day, you’re going to need somewhere to keep your precious cards. From postboxes to vintage dressers, we’ve got all the best ideas Share your engagement ring selfies with us! Tag with #YYWISAIDYES and
@YOUYOURWEDDING
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STORES IN LONDON & BIRMINGHAM INFO@THEWEDDING-CLUB.CO.UK @TheWedding_Club
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Kenneth Wi nston The Ella Rosa Collection e l l a r o s a b r i d a l . c o m
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www.stephanieallin.net
#MYLOVESTORY
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SomethingNEW
The ultimate edit of what’s hot in wedding style
SWEETdreams T
WORDS BY RACHEL AVERY. PHOTOGRAPH BY ROBERTA FACCHINI PHOTOGRAPHY
hese perfectly plumped cushions aren’t for resting your head on for some pre-wedding beauty sleep. Each intricately designed pillow is, in fact, made entirely from cake! 6R RQFH \RX¡YH ÀQLVKHG admiring the beauty of this delightful tower, created by Elizabeth’s Cake Emporium, you FDQ VOLFH LQWR à XII\ OLJKW sponge. The dazzling gold design, inspired by Morocco, adds another level of decadence to this already magical wedding cake. Now that’s how to impress your guests‌
Something new
Material GIRL
Focus on a core element to form the basis of your wedding theme
on re e
This versatile look is very now, and can be softened with lengths of luxurious fabric runners and DUWLVDQDO ÁRZHU arrangements.
Display florals in grey ceramic stand planters, £18 each, Mink Interiors
Complete the look with silver and black cutlery, from 40p per item to hire, Classic Crockery
Bamboo silk napkins, £38 for four, and runners, £87 for three metres, Lancaster & Cornish
Concreteinspired plates, POA, Hélène Millot
Go monochrome with your flowers, from £75, Poppy Sturley
Dress lounge areas with scatter cushions, £60 each, Design House Norwich
Opt for inky tones with hero glassware, £9.75 each, Bloomingville at Trouva
Paper textures evoke concrete, from £2 each, Bureau Design
The hard stone-efect decoration is ofset by the flowers, from £275, Butter Beautiful
These concrete letters make great favours, £3 each, The Conran Shop
36 youandyourwedding.co.uk
A trio of cakes, from £700, Butter Beautiful
Place concretestyle candle holders all over tables, £11.99, Zara
COMPILED BY SUSIE YOUNG OF KNOT & POP, KNOTANDPOP.COM. CONCRETE: PHOTOGRAPH BY JANNEKE STORM, JANNEKESTORM.COM. GREEN MARBLE: STYLED BY KNOT & POP AT ACE HOTEL, PHOTOGRAPH BY YELLOW BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY. TEXTURED PAINT: STYLED AND PRODUCED BY KNOT & POP, FLOWERS BY JO FLOWERS, JOFLOWERS.CO.UK AND HART FLORAL, HARTFLORALDESIGN.COM, PHOTOGRAPH BY TAYLOR & PORTER, TAYLORANDPORTER.CO.UK
Create custom photo-booth backdrops with stark wallpaper, £50 per roll, Graham & Brown
This tablecloth brings character to the theme, POA to hire, Knot & Pop
Textured paint
Beautiful brush strokes bring a unique finish to table styling, £7.99, Zara
This soft and romantic look EULQJV DQ DUWLVWLF ÁDLU to your wedding style.
Opt for natural ceramics with texture, £48 for two, Broste Copenhagen
Use textured taper candles in soft hues, from £9.50, Broste Copenhagen
Keep flowers light and delicate in tone and texture, from £185, Poppy Sturley
This seminaked cake evokes texture, from £180, Cakes by Yolke
Dress bars with pots for straws and cocktail garnishes, £29, Homearama
Use painted bottles for flowers or table water, £5 each to hire, Knot & Pop
Painted ceramic bowls add interest to tablescapes, £20 each, Habitat
Continue the theme with wooden crossback chairs, £5.99 each to hire, Wedhead
Oatmeal cushions give a sense of nature, £9.99, H&M
Green marble White marble reigned supreme in 2017 – but green is growing in popularity.
Mix bursts of purple with pink and green, from £75, Bloaum Gold is a natural companion for green marble, as with this candlestick £12.99, H&M
Layer goldbeaded charger plates with green plates, £2.88 each to hire, Duchess & Butler
This pillar candle is like a mini marble column, £12.75, Broste Copenhagen
Soft marble swirls introduce your theme, POA, Boarding School Collective
Use vases to reflect or contrast your floral tones, £45, John Lewis
These napkin rings add a flash of gold, £8.50, Broste Copenhagen
Deep purple adds further luxe, £25, John Lewis A marble-efect cake is an original addition to the theme, from £680, Blossom & Crumb
youandyourwedding.co.uk 37
Something new All table items available to hire from Knot & Pop
Float tealights in these small bowls, £26.99, KintsugiGiftsUK at Etsy
Flecked ribbon, £45 for three metres, Lancaster & Cornish
Use wallpaper as backing for seating plans, £16.99 per roll, Graham & Brown at House of Fraser
Torn paper menus and place wraps, from £4 each, Pale Press London
PIECE& LOVE
Feature vases with waves of gold, £50, Olivia McGill
Gold napkin rings, £45, Summerill & Bishop
‘Repaired’ plates and platters for bars and lounge areas, £54, Amara
For a modern touch, Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing pottery with gold and silver to create a beautifully imperfect look
Try kintsugi yourself, £25, The Design Museum
The look is striking in silver, £120, Yenchen & Yawen
38 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Floral arrangements inspired by Japan, POA Frida Kim
Complement with golden hue glassware, £16, Broste Copenhagen
These drinks coasters take the Kintsugi efect to the edge, £14, Anthropologie
COMPILED BY SUSIE YOUNG OF KNOT & POP, KNOTANDPOP.COM
Kintsugi-inspired decoration for a striking cake efect, £700, Blossom & Crumb
ELLISBRIDALS.COM
yle ur st o y rge a ch er p Yellow-gold su and diamond, gs
ROMONA KEVEZA
Fashion NOTEBOOK
The latest style tips from our fashionistas
£2,800, Nadine Aysoy
Retrostyle, £12, Accessorize
LION’S SHARE
Leaf, £125, Pandora
Gold-drop, £15, J by Jasper Conran at Debenhams
Floral, £12, Jon Richard
INMACULADA GARCÍA
A delicate veil is an elegant choice that will give a beautiful backdrop to your wedding dress. Whether embroidered with sparkle and lace, or adorned with a dazzling tiara, this classic accessory will look incredible ÁRDWLQJ EHKLQG \RX GRZQ WKH DLVOH WTOO BY WATTERS
MARCO & MARÍA
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Sta tem en t
SASSI HOLFORD
REEM ACRA
DEMETRIOS ALAN HANNAH
SHEER BRILLIANCE
Chandelier, £26, River Island
This transparent and gold trinket box is a wedding winner. Big enough to fit your phone, lipstick and card, it’s a chic pick for brides who want a piece of arm candy they can also wear after the celebrations are complete. Trinket box clutch, £550, Aspinal of London
OPPOSUITS
Keeping IT REAL
Fancy feet ADD A TOUCH OF SPARKLE TO YOUR SHOES – THIS ELEGANT PAIR COMES WITH FOUR DIFFERENT STRAP OPTIONS. LUXE HEELS WITH JEWELLED STRAPS, US$375 (APPROX. £285), ENCHANTED ATELIER BY LIV HART
Cross-front, £19.99, JML Direct Faux-fur jacket, £210, Amo Couture
Pompom bag, £26, River Island
Multiway, £26, Figleaves
THINK PINK From candyfloss jackets for you, to roaring rose suits for your groom, this popular shade always makes a statement.
Strapless, £35, Freya
Veiled hat, £570, Awon Golding
DIVINE ATELIER
WORDS BY MOLLY COUGHLAN. PHOTOGRAPHS FROM BARCELONA BRIDAL FASHION WEEK AND WHITE GALLERY LONDON
Go almost au naturel with a nude bra for secret support
Fashion news
Embellished bag, £295, Pinko
Vintage brooch, £35, Susan Caplan
Embroidered dress, £125, Frock & Frill
‘Girl boss’ bracelet, £20, Scream Pretty Pleated dress, POA, Pronovias
COUNTRY
Mini hoops, £10, River Island
TOWN ‘Taken’ tiara, £844, Amber Sakai
Peep-toe heels, £65, Paradox Pink London Charm bracelet, £1,985, Robinson Pelham Fringed bag, £30, Accessorize
Sparkle boots, £175, Dune London Stacker rings, from £450 each, Laura Lee
MAXMARA
Bird earrings, £40, Bill Skinner
GUEST STYLE COAST WILL RELEASE A COLLECTION INSPIRED BY THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY IN OCTOBER youandyourwedding.co.uk 43
LEIGHTON
L I B E RT Y
Ivory courts, £69, Paradox London
Slingback heels, £495, Nicholas Kirkwood
Satin shoes, £195, Florence
Well
From dazzling diamanté details to clean and simple white courts – these gorgeous heels are a chic choice for stylish brides
Lace and crystal heels, £865, René Caovilla
Kitten heels, £59, J by Jasper Conran
Butterfly heels, £395, Sophia Webster
White heels, £25.99, New Look Beaded courts, £265, L.K.Bennett x Jenny Packham
48 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Satin sandals, £99, Dune London
Something new
White heels, £39, Faith at Debenhams
Pointed heels, £525, Tabitha Simmons
Pearl-embellished heels, £1,295, Jimmy Choo White booties, US$520 (approx. £400), Jessica Bedard
Diamanté heels, £845, Christian Louboutin
Gold-detail heels, £35, Very
COMPILED BY PETA HUNT AND MOLLY COUGHLAN
Peep-toe heels, £85, Rainbow Club
Flower-detail heels, £345, Freya Rose
Rose gold and white heels, £160, Ted Baker youandyourwedding.co.uk 49
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CARLA RUIZ
WTOO BY WATTERS
INMACULADA GARCÍA
JESÚS PEIRÓ
LELA ROSE
CARLO PIGNATELLI
ANA TORRES
COMPILED BY PETA HUNT AND MOLLY COUGHLAN PHOTOGRAPHS FROM BARCELONA BRIDAL WEEK, NY BRIDAL MARKET & SÌ SPOSAITALIA
NAEEM KHAN
KELLY FAETANINI
WILLOWBY BY WATTERS
FRANCESCA MIRANDA
youandyourwedding.co.uk 53
MARCO Y MARÍA
KENNETH WINSTON
MIRA ZWILLINGER
GIULIA GAUDINO FOR OLYMPIA SPOSA
REEM ACRA
PRONOVIAS
CYMBELINE
Catwalk
Embrace the beauty of nature with a romantic dress adorned with delicate flowers
54 youandyourwedding.co.uk
COMPILED BY PETA HUNT AND MOLLY COUGHLAN. PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BARCELONA BRIDAL WEEK AND WHITE GALLERY
THEIA
Look amazing from every angle with dreamy details on the back of your dress
IT UP
CASABLANCA BRIDAL
INMACULADA GARCíA
TARA KEELY BY LAZARO
PALOMA BLANCA
YANIV PERSY
ANNE BARGE
MARYLISE & REMBO STYLING
CYMBELINE
LEANNE MARSHALL
BACK
WATTERS
E&W COUTURE
TI ADORA BY ALLISON WEBB
MORILEE BY MADELINE GARDNER
ALEJANDRO RESTA
GALIA LAHAV
WILLOWBY BY WATTERS
CATRIONA GARFORTH
ROSA CLARÁ
DEMETRIOS
Catwalk
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What we love 3 2 4 8
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COMPILED BY MOLLY COUGHLAN AND PETA HUNT CRYSTAL CROWN TIARA: ROYAL COLLECTION TRUST / © HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II 2018
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1 Star headband, £72, Rock N Rose 2 Crystal tiara, £165, Ivory & co. 3 Crystal crown tiara, £150, Royal Collection Shop 4 Bardot tiara, £95, Olivier Laudus 5 Pearl-drop tiara, POA, Cartier 6 Vintage-style tiara, from £520, Nina Rai Couture Hats 7 Leaf headband, £60, Jon Richard 8 Vine tiara, £175, Aye Do Weddings 9 Slogan tiara, £920, Amber Sakai 10 Gold headband, US$280, (approx. £210) Lelet NY 11 Gold tiara, £105, Sass B at Lace & Favour 12 Crystal tiara, £65, Alan Hannah Devoted 13 Silver tiara, £205, Ivory & co. 14 Leaf diadem, £700, Stephanie Browne Australia 15 Sparkle tiara, £20, Claire’s 16 Floral tiara, £260, Agnes Walker 17 Side tiara, £54, Gitzy Secrets 18 Gold crown, £740, Stephanie Browne Australia 19 Pearl and gold tiara, £85, Sass B at Lace & Favour 20 Sparkle tiara, £58.75, Linzi Jay youandyourwedding.co.uk 57
Mood board-ready reception inspiration
Regal THE BRIEF MOOD A classic and opulent wedding style that’s utterly sophisticated PALETTE A combination of delicate pink shades and decadent gold VENUE The grand setting of Hedsor House in Buckinghamshire provides a backdrop ďŹ t for royalty
Styling Amy Hatch Photography Roberta Facchini
Reception trends
THE DETAILS The key elements to achieve this look WEDDING SETTING
“Everything married together perfectly, with golden accents throughout”
The glorious setting of Hedsor House was the perfect choice for this shoot after coordinator Mari Chase visited and admired the vast ballroom: “I could just imagine the bride walking down the impressive staircase into the OLJKW ÀOOHG URRP FRPSOHWH ZLWK striking cut-glass chandeliers.”
THOUGHTFUL FLORALS
Florist Brigitte Girling of Moss & Stone put together a mix of GHOLFDWHO\ FRORXUHG ÁRZHUV ² DQG also considered the amount of blooms to use for the look. “Using DQ DEXQGDQFH RI ÁRZHUV RQ \RXU top table will create impact and give a luxury feel,” advises Mari. Simple displays on all the other tables will also ensure the top table gets all of the focus.
THE FINER THINGS
Mari, along with stylist Amy Hatch, ensured that everything was married together perfectly, with golden accents throughout ² IURP WKH VWDWHPHQW FDNHV DQG gorgeous stationery to the cutlery. Picking a key detail that you repeat throughout your décor will really bring your look together.
64 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Reception trends “Use an abundance of flowers to create impact and a luxury feel”
THE DREAM TEAM
WORDS BY RACHEL AVERY
Concept, coordination & make-up chasemakeup.com Styling thetimelessstylist.co.uk Photography robertafacchini.com Venue hedsor.com Stationery fineartcalligraphy.co.uk Dresses & veil mirrormirror.uk.com Shoes freyarose.com Hair accessories afshanshamas.com Hair amylacey.co.uk Cakes elizabethscakeemporium.com Flowers mossandstone.co.uk Table linen & napkins overthetoprentals.co.uk Tableware duchessandbutler.com Ribbons katecullen.co.uk
66 youandyourwedding.co.uk
For an appointment call 0207 680 9716 Shop Online at catherinedeane.co.uk
NIURKA
NADETTE
ronaldjoyce.com
Reception trends
THE BRIEF
MAGIC
MOOD An atmospheric and intimate wedding set-up with a contemporary edge PALETTE Strong ebony interspersed with reds, coppers and greens VENUE A cool east London bar with lavish furnishings
Styling SAM JOHNSON Photography BENJAMIN WHEELER
“WE WENT FOR A MODERN, LUXURIOUS AND INDULGENT LOOK” 70 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Reception trends
THE DETAILS The key elements to achieve this look GOOD MOOD
When planning your dream day, it’s important to think about the type of atmosphere you want to create – whether that’s romantic, fun, laid-back, or luxe. In this shoot, Sam Johnson of Carmela Weddings used minimal light to achieve a statement look, which adds to the drama of the theme.
GO MODERN
As far away from pretty pastels as possible, this contemporarycool theme is all about pushing the boundaries. “We went for a modern, luxurious and indulgent look,” says Sam. This can be seen in the striking stationery and VWUXFWXUDO ÁRUDO DUUDQJHPHQWV
WORDS BY RACHEL AVERY, ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHS BY GETTY
STATEMENT STYLE
“The inspiration for this wedding shoot was born not just from design or décor, but also from fashion,” says Sam. The jumpsuit worn by the bride is what the style is all about – a cool, modern, and bold look that still says bridal. You might not have thought of taking inspiration from your own RXWÀW IRU \RXU GpFRU WR FUHDWH a harmonious w-day feel, but it can be a great starting point.
youandyourwedding.co.uk 7 1
Reception trends
“THE INSPIRATION WAS BORN FROM DESIGN, DÉCOR AND FASHION”
THE DREAM TEAM Photography benjaminthomaswheeler.com Styling carmelaweddings.co.uk Additional styling raspberrybe.com Venue oriolebar.com Flowers emmasoulsbyflowers.com Bridal jumpsuit lenkas.co.uk Lighting dreamwaveevents.co.uk Stationery bettyloudesign.co.uk Furniture wedhead.co.uk Cake labellecakecompany.co.uk Hair lovehairbylou.co.uk Make-up melkinsman.com Table linen couvert.co.uk
72 youandyourwedding.co.uk
E JAD
W W W. S O P H I AT O L L I . C O . U K
OfficialMonCheriEurope
@moncherieurope
@moncherieurope
www.dianelegrand.com
Dream Wedding Gowns VISTAMAR – affordable luxury Styles for every shape and type of bride
7516
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CITY CHIC- affordable luxury and elegantly fashionable styles for todays modern brides 30338
Reception trends Fog suite, from £175 for 50, The Golden Letter
Watercolour dreaming A6 watercolour invitation, from 99p each, hitched.co.uk/stationery
INVITATION only Get your stationery on point, with hot-right-now trends and practical tips
T
KH ÀUVW JOLPSVH \RXU guests get of your big day theme is when you send your wedding invitations – so it’s important that they truly UHÁHFW \RXU VW\OH )RU inspiration, here are the latest stationery trends, along with expert top tips for planning, designing and sending your invites.
Somethin’ Blue suite, from £1.95 each, Betty Lou Design
Watercolour Ink pocketfold suite, from £3.95 each, Here Comes The Bride
76 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Blush Dusk invitation, from £20 for 10, Papier
Moonlight Blues suite, from £1.80 each, Olive & Bramble
Florals suite, from £2.50 each, Ananya
Vaishali Shah, founder of stationer Ananya, shares her advice for invitation perfection Give your designer a couple of examples to work with “It’s always helpful to let your stationery designer know what kind of style you like – and using examples to do this is a great idea,” says Vaishali. “You could also look at the designer’s own website to see what designs they have created which are similar to what you are looking for.”
Lake District suite, from £97 for 30, Lucy Says I Do
English garden
Your invitations don’t have to match your colour scheme “I think it’s important that couples don’t feel pressured into deciding on a theme when they are sending out save the dates,” she says. “However, you may want to consider coordinating somewhat, to give your wedding a harmonious feel.”
Coastal Flowers suite, from £2.30 each, Studio Sophie
Make sure you leave enough time for printing “Don’t forget that designing and printing can take time,” advises Vaishali. “If a designer is creating a one-off design from scratch, this can take three or four months to design and print. However, off-the-shelf collections are able to be turned around in a month or so.”
Wildflower pocketfold invitation, from £3.95 each, Here Comes The Bride
À L’aise The Wedding Of suite, from £1.09, Papier
Essential information to include on your invitations
Pure & simple
Calligraphy Pocket suite, from £343 for 50, Wolf & Ink
Embossed suite, POA, Pale Press London
The names of the people inviting the guest – usually the couple, the bride’s parents or both sets of parents The name of the couple (of course!) Your venue, with full address details The date of the wedding The time of the ceremony The name(s) of guests being invited – plus an indication of whether plusones and children are also invited RSVP details – perhaps on a separate card for guests to send back, including space to give information about dietary requirements
Extra details to consider including on an information card with your invitations
Bespoke suite, POA, Studio Anika
Directions and/or a map Accommodation options Dress code requests Your wedding website address Your gift requests or list URL youandyourwedding.co.uk 77
Reception trends Ask for a proof copy before your invitations get printed “Getting a proof copy of your invitations RQ D 3') EHIRUH WKH\ DUH ÀQDOLVHG LV D JRRG ZD\ WR HQVXUH \RX DUH KDSS\ ZLWK WKH OD\RXW VSHOOLQJV WLPLQJV DQG VR RQ μ VD\V 9DLVKDOL ´$ JRRG VWDWLRQHU\ GHVLJQHU VKRXOG DOVR EH DEOH WR JLYH \RX D SK\VLFDO SURRI RI \RXU LQYLWDWLRQ LI DVNHG EXW WKHUH PD\ EH DQ DGGLWLRQDO FKDUJH IRU WKLV μ
Bespoke Tuscany suite, POA, Lucy Says I Do
Send your invitations in time ´7UDGLWLRQDOO\ LQYLWDWLRQV DUH VHQW RXW VL[ WR HLJKW ZHHNV EHIRUH WKH ZHGGLQJ ² DOWKRXJK ZH QRZ ÀQG FRXSOHV VHQGLQJ RXW LQYLWDWLRQV ZHHNV LQ DGYDQFH μ VKH VD\V ´,W JLYHV JXHVWV SOHQW\ RI WLPH WR FOHDU WKHLU VFKHGXOHV DQG PDNH WUDYHO DUUDQJHPHQWV HVSHFLDOO\ LI WKH\ OLYH RXW RI WRZQ ,I LW LV D GHVWLQDWLRQ ZHGGLQJ \RX PD\ HYHQ ZDQW WR VHQG WKHP DW OHDVW D \HDU DKHDG RI WLPH μ
Wild suite, from US$500 (approx. £380), The Wells Makery
Map it out Bespoke suite, POA, Knots & Kisses
Consider whether you’d like any additional stationery items ´7KHUH DUH VR PDQ\ DGGLWLRQDO LWHPV RI VWDWLRQHU\ WKDW \RX PD\ ZDQW WR FRQVLGHU μ DGGV 9DLVKDOL ´7KLQN DERXW VDYH WKH GDWHV IRU WKDW DOO LPSRUWDQW ÀUVW JOLPSVH LQWR \RXU ZHGGLQJ DOVR WKHUH DUH 5693 FDUGV RUGHU RI VHUYLFH ERRNOHWV VHDWLQJ SODQ SODFHFDUGV WDEOH QXPEHUV PHQXV DQG WKDQN \RX FDUGV ,I \RX GR RUGHU DGGLWLRQDO LWHPV UHPHPEHU WR RUGHU WKH ZKROH VXLWH DW WKH VDPH WLPH WR VDYH RQ SULQWLQJ FRVWV μ
Travel invitation, from 85p each, norma&dorothy
Blue Pastels Geometric cards, from £1.69 each, Paper Paper Paper at Zazzle
Modern pastels
Bespoke invitation, £POA, Studio Anika
Ibiza bespoke suite, POA, Lucy Says I Do
78 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Gemstone-inspired suite, POA, BerinMade
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Modern ROMANCE With beautiful detailing and understated elegance, Rosa Clarå’s 2019 collection brings style and spirit
R
osa Clarå’s ethereal and sophisticated spirit shines through its stunning new collection for 2019. Fantastically feminine and exquisitely elegant, LW¡V VXUH WR IXOÀO WKH GUHDPV RI brides everywhere. The award-winning Barcelona bridal house has been designing exquisite gowns since the midnineties. With this new collection, Rosa Clarå has captured something truly extraordinary through a PL[ RI VOHHN VLOKRXHWWHV à RZLQJ fabrics and delicate details. )URP ÀJXUH KXJJLQJ RXWOLQHV and voluminous skirts to square necklines and plunging backs,
each design is a show-stopping creation. The care and attention is clear to see at every turn, thanks to a marriage of silk tulle, soft voile plumetti, luxurious velvet ribbon and WKH ÀQHVW &KDQWLOO\ ODFH Designed by women for women, the 2019 Rosa Clarå collection celebrates the female form, ensuring every gown accentuates the body’s natural curves. When the big day arrives, every Rosa Clarå bride ZLOO IHHO FRQÀGHQW UDGLDQW DQG incredibly special.
Discover the 2019 collection at rosa-clara.com
#BEAWATTERSGIRL Visit watters.com to find a retailer near you.
BE OUR Guest Take your seat at the world’s loveliest weddings and prepare to be inspired
Love in BLOOM Flowers were a central theme on this summer’s day Photography | Dominique Bader
THE COUPLE
Eve & Chris Eve Graham, 31, and Christopher Colburn, 28, held their ceremony and reception at Millbridge Court, Surrey
I
TALKING TABLES Instead of names or numbers, the couple chose childhood photos for each table, and created a seating plan from an Ikea frame.
84 youandyourwedding.co.uk
t’s always lovely when couples can call on family members to help create the day of their dreams, so when Eve and Chris wanted beautiful blooms to play a major part in their wedding dĂŠcor, they were lucky enough to be able to call on Eve’s mum, Tracey Peryman, who has her own garden design business. Eve worked closely with Sophie Cannarozzo, wedding supervisor at Long Acres Garden &HQWUH WR FUHDWH D Ă RUDO ZRQGHUODQG WKDW included silver birch trees, opulent garlands and stunning centrepieces. As a particularly pretty touch, there were miniature mercury vases on each reception table, each holding a single stem of rose, peony or eucalyptus. In keeping with the botanical styling, the FRXSOH VDLG WKHLU YRZV XQGHU D VWXQQLQJ Ă RUDO arch inside their venue. Originally, they’d hoped to have an outdoor ceremony, but the threat of rain changed their plans. “In hindsight, we feel having it inside was better as it felt more intimate – and it also meant the wind wasn’t blowing Eve’s dress or veil about!â€? says Chris. “When she walked into the room, everyone was in awe. Eve looked just incredible.â€? Afterwards, the newlyweds and their guests enjoyed canapĂŠs that were miniature versions of the couple’s favourite foods. “We also had mini ice cream cone canapĂŠs,â€? says Eve. “They went down a treat.â€? Another culinary highlight was the tiered cake with blooms made from icing. “It was stunning,â€? says Eve. “In fact, one of my favourite things of the whole wedding!â€?
Real weddings
“WHEN EVE WALKED INTO THE ROOM, EVERYONE WAS IN AWE”
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Real weddings
“THE CAKE WAS STUNNING – IN FACT, ONE OF MY FAVOURITE THINGS OF THE WHOLE WEDDING!” MINI MAGIC The couple left the ceremony in Eve’s father’s Mini Moke car, which was decorated with flowers and tin cans. “My family had been eating tinned food so Chris and I could have enough cans on the back!”
THE DREAM TEAM Reception venue millbridgecourt.co.uk Photographer dominiquebader.com Bride’s dress Stella York at trulygorgeous.co.uk Bridesmaids’ dresses morilee.co.uk Groom’s suit tedbaker.com Flowers longacres.co.uk Stationery minted.com Catering kalmkitchen.co.uk Cake forever-cakes.co.uk Macaron tower therealmacaroncompany.com
86 youandyourwedding.co.uk
5 11925
www.mon-cheri.co.uk
OfficialMonCheriEurope
@moncherieurope
@moncherieurope
THE COUPLE
Eve & Ed
WILD SIDE Unconventional twists on traditions and untamed flowers made this a wedding day to remember Photography | Paul Santos
A LOCAL FLAVOUR The décor for the day was inspired by the Northumberland countryside.
J
ust days before Ed and Eve’s March wedding, their venue – the English Heritage-managed Brinkburn Priory – was under a thick blanket of snow, and other weddings in the region had been cancelled due to the effects of the so-called ‘Beast from the East’. “We chose to get married in the spring, as it’s our favourite time of year and can often bring some of the best ZHDWKHU ² EXW LW QHDUO\ EDFNÀUHG μ recalls Eve. “Thankfully, the sun came out for the weekend, and we really FRXOGQ·W EHOLHYH RXU OXFN μ
WORDS BY MELANIE MACLEOD
Walk on the
Eve Foley, 28, and Edward Ireland, 29, had their ceremony and reception at Brinkburn Priory, Northumberland
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SIMPLY GLOWING Filament lighting and hanging owers gave the tepee venue a modern edge.
Ed and Eve both love the great outdoors, so they brought it inside by draping the pews with loose foliage, and adorning the aisle with bay trees. ´, ZDQWHG WKH à RZHUV WR ORRN ZLOG DQG LQIRUPDO Ο VD\V (YH ´, WKRXJKW à RUDO arrangements would prevent people chatting over the tables, so instead we GHFRUDWHG WKH WHSHH ZLWK JUHHQHU\ Ο Music played a big part in the day, and the tables were named after the couple’s favourite songs by The Kinks – inspired by Eve having given Ed one of the band’s albums as a gift for WKHLU ÀUVW 9DOHQWLQH¡V 'D\ WRJHWKHU
“Instead of having table-name cards, I bought 7-inch records and stood WKHP RQ OLWWOH HDVHOV Îź H[SODLQV (YH Other musical touches included a reading of Johnny Cash lyrics, and D Ă€UVW GDQFH WR DQ DFRXVWLF YHUVLRQ of the Rolling Stones’ Wild Horses. 7KH UHOD[HG YLEH RI WKH ZHGGLQJ ZDV UHĂ HFWHG LQ WKH PHQX ´:H KDG sharing bowls, as a formal dinner GLGQ¡W Ă€W ZLWK WKH ODLG EDFN IHHO ZH ZHUH JRLQJ IRU Îź VD\V (YH $ OLYHO\ party followed, with the band later saying to say it was one of the most fun gigs they’d ever played, with some of the “craziest and borderline GDQJHURXV GDQFLQJÎź WKH\¡G HYHU VHHQ
THE DREAM TEAM Photography paulsantosphotography.com Venue brinkburnnorthumberland.com Flowers lavendersblueowers.blog Bride’s dress catherinedeane.co.uk Bridesmaids’ dresses johnlewis.com
“THE SUN CAME OUT FOR THE WEEKEND. WE COULDN’T BELIEVE OUR LUCK!� youandyourwedding.co.uk 89
Real weddings
Bright SPARKS
A subtle Christmas theme ran through this winter wedding, from fairy lights to seasonal cocktails Photography | Albert Palmer
THE COUPLE
Melissa & Todd Melissa Boakes, 26, and Todd Jex, 28, held their ceremony and reception at Babington House, Somerset
90 youandyourwedding.co.uk
WORDS BY HANNAH DAVIES
W
ith their country house wedding taking place in mid-December, Melissa and Todd were keen to include some nods to the season. “We didn’t want to go all-out Christmas mad, though!â€? says Melissa. The subtle seasonal touches LQFOXGHG IDLU\ OLJKWV LQVLGH DQG RXW Ă€U tree-scented candles and mistletoe in the doorways. After the ceremony, guests lit sparklers to form an arch for the couple to walk through, as a wintry twist on the typical confetti throw. “I remember walking out of the chapel with my new
“I WALKED OUT OF THE CHAPEL WITH MY NEW HUSBAND FEELING OVERWHELMED!”
husband feeling overwhelmed with happy tears,” says Melissa. “The sparklers really added to the moment.” At the reception, the sophisticated take on Christmas styling continued ZLWK WKH EHDXWLIXO EORRPV 7KH ÁRUDO arrangements included seasonal varieties such as ranunculus, white snowberry and holly, and were all in fresh winter-perfect shades of white and green. Sparkling candles on the tables DQG LQ ODQWHUQV ÀQLVKHG WKH ORRN “As favours, we had homemade Christmas crackers, which we used as the place names,” recalls Melissa. ´7KHVH ZHUH ÀOOHG ZLWK D PLQL /LQGW reindeer, a personalised wooden heart and trivia about me and Todd.” A jazz band played Christmas music as guests tucked into the wedding feast of hearty winter warmers including rib of beef followed by sticky toffee pudding. The couple then hosted a cocktail hour, with bespoke drinks named after their dogs: a ‘Monty’ gingerbread latte mix, and D ¶&RFR· ZDUP PXOOHG VORH JLQ /DWHU on, a DJ got the party started with a mix of Yuletide and dance tracks. “We had the run of the house until the next morning, so we all partied on until fairly late,” says Melissa. “The party came to a close with cheese and port in the library with the few people who were still going!”
Real weddings
HOUSE OF LOVE The couple got engaged at Babington House and realised it would be perfect for their wedding.
THE DREAM TEAM
“WE HAD HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS CRACKERS AS FAVOURS”
Reception venue babingtonhouse.co.uk Photography albertpalmerphotography.com Bride’s dress Augusta Jones at krystlebrides.co.uk Bridesmaids’ dresses little-mistress.com Groom’s suit tedbaker.com Flowers flowersbypassion.com Music & lighting stylishentertainment.co.uk
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GOOD WISHES Guests wrote messages to the couple on wooden baubles and hung them on a wish tree.
92 youandyourwedding.co.uk
MACDONALD FRIMLEY HALL HOTEL & SPA
YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE With over 40 locations across the UK, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts have the perfect location for your wedding celebration. With a range of superior and unique wedding venues, award-winning food and a host of experienced wedding planners, we will ensure your special day is truly unforgettable. Everything went perfectly, there wasn’t a thing we would have changed and it seems like our guests agree. Mr & Mrs Morgan, Macdonald Frimley Hall Hotel & Spa
MACDONALD ELMERS COURT HOTEL & RESORT
MACDONALD LINDEN HALL GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
Find your dream venue at www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/Weddings or call 0344 879 9210
MACDONALD MARINE HOTEL & SPA
CHIC & UNIQUE This couple created a celebration that was wonderfully elegant and perfectly personal Photography | Hannah Dufy
Real weddings
THE COUPLE
Regina & Jon Regina Lui, 30, and Jonathan Pak, 30, held their ceremony and reception at Hedsor House, Buckinghamshire egina and Jon chose a venue that’s known for its grandeur, but their personal style is all about understated elegance. With the help of planner Katrina Otter, they decided to marry the two looks in their dĂŠcor by starting with a pretty, yet subtle colour palette that included blush, lilac, ivory and white. These romantic shades made for EHDXWLIXO Ă RUDO DUUDQJHPHQWV IURP VRIW balls of blooms in crystal vases to an RYHUĂ RZLQJ WDEOH UXQQHU 7KH UHVW RI WKH GpFRU ZDV NHSW VLPSOH DQG UHĂ€QHG – crisp white linens and gold-rimmed charger plates on the tables, and storm lanterns throughout the space. “One of the guests exclaimed that the dĂŠcor RI WKH GLQLQJ URRP FRPSOHWHO\ UHĂ HFWHG us as a couple,â€? says Regina. “This was precisely what we wanted.â€? The bride’s dress perfectly suited the mood: a Vera Wang ballgown with D OLJKW DV DLU Ă RZLQJ VNLUW DQG GHOLFDWH detailing on the bodice. Aside from the look of the day, there were other elements that were particularly personal
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WORDS BY HANNAH DAVIES
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to the couple. “Our table names were cities where we have travelled together as a couple,â€? says Regina. “After the wedding breakfast, we played a video we’d put together with short clips of our adventures in each of the cities.â€? 7KH EULGH DQG JURRP WRRN WR WKH Ă RRU WR SHUIRUP D FKRUHRJUDSKHG Ă€UVW GDQFH to Let’s Do It (Let’s Fall in Love) by Ella Fitzgerald – the song playing when they got engaged. They also had a Chinese WHD FHUHPRQ\ ´,W¡V D VLJQLĂ€FDQW ZD\ for the bride and groom to show respect and gratitude to their parents,â€? says Regina. “In turn, the family expressed blessings to us as newlyweds.â€?
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Real weddings ible Jenny Yoo dresses l et e nvert o c ach The ma id ch oo se
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Crisp white linens and gold charger plates were the perfect counterpoint to the glorious floral table arrangements.
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“THE DÉCOR OF THE DINING ROOM REFLECTED US AS A COUPLE COMPLETELY” THE DREAM TEAM Ceremony & reception venue hedsor.com Photography hannahdufy.com Planner katrinaotterweddings.co.uk Bride’s dresses verawang.com, sinequanone.com Bridesmaids’ dresses jennyyoo.com Flowergirl’s dress nordstrom.com Groom’s suit boggi.com Flowers blueskyflowers.co.uk Plates duchessandbutler.com Stationery emilyandjo.co.uk Cake cheriekelly.co.uk
96 youandyourwedding.co.uk
TEA TIME For the tea ceremony, Regina wore a modern version of the traditional Chinese qípáo, paired with gold Jimmy Choos.
#BEAWATTERSGIRL Visit willowby.com to find a retailer near you.
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THE COUPLE
Giulia & Stefano Giulia Riva, 27, and Stefano Stoppa, 27, held their ceremony at Santuario della Madonna del Rosario di Varallo Pombia and their reception at Jardin à Vivre, Milan, Italy
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iulia and Stefano both describe themselves as an unconventional couple – so it’s not surprising that they put their own twists on wedding traditions. “We decided not to have bridesmaids or ushers,” says Giulia. “Instead, we accessorised our three witnesses with bow ties that matched Stefano’s waistcoat.” Following the ceremony, prosecco was served right outside the church, before guests made their way to the rather unique reception venue: a greenhouse. “Our décor was made up of plant leaves, foliage and lots of monstera,”
98 youandyourwedding.co.uk
So fresh, SO GREEN
An abundance of verdancy and some quirky ideas gave this wedding a cool, laid-back edge Photography | Elisabetta Marzetti
IN FAVOUR The couple set out succulents for their guests to take home as favours, in keeping with the botanical theme.
Real weddings ALL ABOUT US Keeping it personal was a priority. “Every single element, from the owers to the centrepieces, had to speak of us and our love story,â€? says Giulia. “We wanted everything to feel familiar.â€? The cou ple wo re be sp ok e
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WORDS BY HANNAH DAVIES
says Giulia. “They gave a tropical, botanical feelâ€?. As a nod to the bride’s career as a photographer, there were disposable cameras on the tables for guests to take their own pictures throughout the celebrations. Instead of a guest book, there were three jars marked, ‘In one year’s time’, ‘In 20 years’ time’, and ‘In 50 years’ time’ – guests wrote their messages and selected a jar according to when they wanted the couple to read them. After a barbecue wedding breakfast, a live band – made up of some of the pair’s close friends – provided the music along with a DJ, with Giulia and Stefano also playing a song together on their guitar and ukelele. Rather than KDYLQJ D Ă€UVW GDQFH WKH\ VDYHG WKHLU favourite song for their last dance. And as the reception drew to a close, they headed into Milan to see a concert and continue the celebrations. “We even ended up on the stage with the band!â€?
THE DREAM TEAM Reception venue jardinavivre.it Photography elisabettamarzetti.com Bride’s two-piece alessiabaldi.it Groom’s suit linneo-archiclothing.com Flowers ilprofumodeiďŹ ori.it Catering & cake lemusebanqueting.it
“OUR DÉCOR WAS MADE UP OF PLANT LEAVES AND FOLIAGE FOR A TROPICAL, BOTANICAL FEELâ€?
Rhapsody IN BLUE
A beautiful palette and elegant florals set the tone for a celebration in Dubai Photography | Bernie & Bindi
Real weddings
THE COUPLE
Nikki & Andrew Nicola Walker, 31, and Andrew Lipshut, 31, held their ceremony and reception at The Park Hyatt, Dubai
“OUR CEREMONY BEGAN WITH HOW WE MET AND HOW OUR LIVES TOGETHER HAVE EVOLVED”
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Real weddings
LOOK OF LOVE Nikki’s Jenny Packham dress was the ďŹ rst she tried on. “I felt so comfortable in it that I couldn’t get excited about any other dress after that!â€?
The pair decided on a colour palette of EOXH JUHHQ DQG ZKLWH WR UHĂ HFW WKH 0LGGOH Eastern-style of tiling and greenery at the hotel, with gold accents for a luxe feel. Planner and stylist Joelle Clute used this as the basis of a look that was pared-back and utterly chic, with blue glassware, gold terrariums and the natural textures of jute SODFHPDWV 7KH Ă RUDO DUUDQJHPHQWV IHDWXUHG lots of greenery and simple white blooms, and incorporated a nod to the couple’s respective family heritages. ´0\ SDUHQWV DUH 6FRWWLVK VR ZH KDG thistles in my bouquet and the buttonholes,â€? says Nikki. “We also included eucalyptus, as Andrew comes from Australia. It was a nice way to represent our home countries.â€? Following a feast that included Arabianstyle mezze and a dessert buffet of the couple’s favourite sweet treats, the newlyweds and their guests took to the GDQFHĂ RRU XQWLO DP ² ZLWK FKLFNHQ shawarmas at midnight to keep the party going. As Nikki says: “We prioritised good food, lots of cocktails and a big party!â€?
“WE PRIORITISED GOOD FOOD, LOTS OF COCKTAILS AND A BIG PARTY!�
THE DREAM TEAM Ceremony & reception venue hyatt.com Photography weddingphotographerdubai.me Planner & stylist mylovelywedding.com Flowers vintage-bloom.com Bride’s dress Jenny Packham at francesday.co.uk Groom’s suit sacoorbrothers.com Bridesmaids’ dresses chichiclothing.com Cocktails theliquidstate.co.uk On-the-day stationery monamakes.com
102 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Photographed on location at the Wallace Collection by Chris Dawes
Real weddings
Beloved COUNTRY Rustic romance met South African style at this autumn-infused rural celebration Photography | Jay Tunbridge
THE COUPLE
Melissa & Josh Melissa Sharpington, 31, and Josia de Kock, 36, held their ceremony at All Saints Church, Hollingbourne, and their reception at Odo’s Barn, Kent
DRESS TO IMPRESS Melissa’s stunning 1920s-style Eliza Jane Howell gown was covered with beaded patterns that sparkled in the light.
104 youandyourwedding.co.uk
WORDS BY HANNAH DAVIES
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nlike many brides, Melissa was delighted to wake up to grey skies on her wedding morning. That’s because she felt moodier weather was what most suited her theme: autumnal rustic romance. Melissa always knew the right setting for this look would be a barn venue, and having viewed several country spaces in Kent, she and Josh fell in love with Odo’s. “It was incredibly charming and had tons of character,” says Melissa. “At the same time, it had a slightly
“THE BARN WAS INCREDIBLY CHARMING, WITH TONS OF CHARACTER�
Reception venue odosbarn.com Photography jaytunbridge.co.uk Bride’s dress elizajanehowell.com Bridesmaids’ dresses asos.com Groom’s suit tedbaker.com Flowers bohotanical.co.uk Cake janejudyinthekitchen.co.uk
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polished appeal, with beautiful Italian chandeliers and landscaped surroundings.â€? Flowers and foliage were both key to the autumnal feel she had in mind, with stunning blooms in hot pink really popping against lots of ivy and fern. Other rustic touches included a stunning semi-naked cake and printed birch slices for the table plan. The groom and ushers all wore lapel pins of foxes, pheasants and other typically English country animals. However, the season and setting weren’t the only LQĂ XHQFHV DW WKLV FHOHEUDWLRQ ² 0HOLVVD ZDV also keen to include plenty of references to Josh’s South African heritage. She had SURWHD WKH FRXQWU\¡V QDWLRQDO Ă RZHU LQ her bouquet, and all the tables were named after vineyards around Cape Town. The day began under the aforementioned clouds with a ceremony at the church next to the bride’s parents’ house. Everyone then headed to the barn for a laid-back feast. “I didn’t want anything formal,â€? says Melissa. “We decided on big sharing boards of fresh, vibrant salads and platters of meat.â€? 7KH Ă€UVW GDQFH ZDV WR -RKQ /HQQRQ¡V VRQJ Woman, before a band got the party started. “My advice to other brides would be to relax!â€? says Melissa. “Any imperfections you think there are on the day will make the day feel even more perfect when you look back.â€?
“ANY IMPERFECTIONS MAKE THE DAY MORE PERFECT WHEN YOU LOOK BACK ON IT�
BIG With Sandals, you can plan the destination wedding day you’ve always wanted
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erhaps you’ve always dreamed of saying “I do� while barefoot on a beautiful beach, or having a special, intimate ceremony with your family and friends present. There are endless options for couples, which can make picking and choosing what you want an almost overwhelming task. But when you get married at a Sandals resort in the Caribbean, anything is possible – and you really can have it all on your big day. Sandals’ stunning Wedding Inspirations have been designed to ignite your imagination and help you curate the wedding of your dreams – whatever you have your heart set on. Sandals is passionate about freedom and creativity, and doesn’t believe in restricting couples with packages
and set themes. Instead, its experts have put time and effort into carefully styled LGHDV ² IHDWXULQJ FRORXUV à RZHUV VHWWLQJV DQG HOHJDQW ÀQLVKLQJ WRXFKHV ² WR LQVSLUH you and make the planning process a breeze. 5Hà HFW \RXU ORYH VWRU\ DQG SHUVRQDO VW\OH by mixing and matching the gorgeous dÊcor options from these wonderful Inspirations: Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q
White Romance Signature Statement Modern Love When In The Tropics Coastal Living Love Is In Bloom Island Chic Caribbean Breezes English Royalty
LOVE IS IN THE AIR You couldn’t wish for a more romantic setting for your wedding than a Sandals resort. Voted the World’s Leading All-Inclusive Resorts at the World Travel Awards for the past 22 years in a row, Sandals’ 16 luxury locations across Jamaica, Barbados, Antigua, the Bahamas, Grenada and Saint Lucia make getting married in paradise a reality. From fairy-tale romance to island chic, Sandals’ customisable Inspirations ofer endless options for your big day, and an all-inclusive destination wedding means less time planning and more time spent enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
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Retro fun
WORDS BY HANNAH DAVIES PHOTOGRAPH OF SMILES BETTER BY BYLUMIERE
The Photo Booth Guys
Caravan of love
Photo FINISH Photo booths are a contemporary wedding classic for good reason. They’re an excellent way to keep guests entertained, as well as providing personal keepsakes from the day. What’s more, you don’t have to compromise on style – there’s a booth out there to suit any w-day mood.
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Mirror, mirror Smiles Better Entertainment
Boho chic Hello Tuk Tuk
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PLUS THE TRUTH ABOUT MODERN MARRIAGE | SHOULD YOU GO DIY? | WEDDINGS UNCOVERED
Inspiration
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When it comes to your theme, doing it yourself can save you money – but there are times when you should call in the pros‌
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ncreasingly, couples want to make their weddings as unique and bespoke as they can, and going down the DIY route with at least one element of the theme is becoming more popular. After all, what could be more personal than something you’ve created with your own hands? Doing it yourself can also be an excellent way to make your budget go further, whether you actually get hands-on yourself or call on the skills of a friend or family member. Not every element lends itself to a DIY approach, though. You may save a lot less money than you’d expect – and for the amount of time a project takes (not to mention the stress caused), sometimes LW¡V VLPSO\ QRW ZRUWK LW 7R KHOS \RX GHFLGH when to DIY and when to call in the professionals, we’ve explored the pros and cons for different aspects of your wedding. We’ve included an indication of what the cost would be in terms of time and stress, as well as the sort of savings you’d make, and also spoken to experts to learn how you can keep costs down when using professionals.
Key POTENTIAL COST TO YOU OF GOING DIY TIME COST STRESS COST FINANCIAL SAVING
Hair & make-up
Having your hair and make-up done is a lovely way to start the day, and should ensure you feel good when you take to the aisle. A professional make-up artist will know how to give you a look that stays the course (occasional touch-ups aside) and looks great in photos, while a pro hairdresser can give you a ’do that doesn’t start to come out when you hit the dance à RRU 7KDW VDLG LI \RX ZDQW WR UHLQ LQ WKH EXGJHW DQG \RX¡UH FRQÀGHQW LQ \RXU VNLOOV there’s no reason not to do your own hair and make-up – possible panic on the wedding morning aside. It’s a good idea to invest in some high-quality beauty basics, such as primer, foundation and long-lasting eyeshadow – so give yourself time to
try these out. You could also book a lesson at a make-up counter to brush up your skills and maybe learn some fresh techniques (Bobbi Brown is particularly good for this). Practise in advance and time yourself, then add on extra time for the wedding morning to allow for shaky hands. Make sure you have some make-up remover with you to correct any mistakes, and if you’re also doing your own hair, check that you’ve packed any tools you need. If you’re getting ready in a hotel, bring your own hairdryer – we’ve never encountered a hotel hairdryer we’ve liked!
“Decorate an iced cake with fresh flowers�
Stationery
Poppy Pickering
Cake
You may be lucky enough to have a friend or family member with excellent baking skills who’s happy to create your cake. But remember that, unless they’re a professional, there’s a world of difference between creating delicious bakes for a family party and making, decorating, transporting and assembling a tiered cake to serve 100 guests – so don’t expect too much. Planning on doing it yourself? Again, however skilled you are, achieving that professional polish takes years of experience, not to mention a lot of time in the run-up to the wedding. “For us, making a wedding cake is a four-day process,â€? says Dominique Pickering of cake maker Poppy Pickering. “We bake one day, JDQDFKH WKH QH[W LFH DIWHU WKDW DQG Ă€QDOO\ stack and decorate the day before the ZHGGLQJ 7KLV DOORZV IRU HDFK VWDJH WR VHWWOH DQG VHW 0DNLQJ WKH VXJDU Ă RZHUV and decorations could then take a further few days, depending on their complexity.â€? You’ll need the right equipment, depending on the style you want, and some venues charge ‘cakeage’ – a fee for bringing your own cake, rather than using an in-house caterer to make it. But there are ways to save if you decide to go with a pro. “Couples on a tight budget could always order a plain iced cake with some simple SLSHG GHWDLO DQG WKHQ DVN WKHLU Ă RULVW WR GHFRUDWH LW ZLWK IUHVK Ă RZHUV WR PDWFK their wedding scheme,â€? suggests Dominique. You could also see if you can serve your cake as the dessert, saving money on the catering bill.
Going DIY with your stationery can be more time-consuming than you think, particularly if you want to design and make the entire suite, from save the dates to menus. Of course, it’s not impossible, and couples do manage it. One of the biggest stumbling blocks is printing. If you’re QRW FRQĂ€GHQW \RXU KRPH SULQWHU ZLOO SURGXFH WKH TXDOLW\ Ă€QLVK \RX ZDQW or you’re worried about the price of ink, research companies that will do this for you, and factor in the cost – head to youandyourwedding.co.uk/forum for reader recommendations. Most importantly, get someone to proofread – there are few things in life less premium-looking than spelling and grammar mistakes. You should also factor in the cost of materials, including any equipment and embellishments. We recommend buying the very best card you can afford, as this will make a real difference to the feel of your stationery. If you have an unusual shape, or lots of inserts, this might increase the postage on your invitations. Ideally, if you’re creating a bespoke design from scratch, you’ll have a suitable program on your laptop or tablet, such as Photoshop – although Word or an online service might work for something simple. One of the easier options is to look for a pre-existing template you can download, known as a ‘printable’. If all this sounds too much, consider getting creative with just your save the dates, then ordering the rest from a stationer.
Favours
Edible favours are popular for good reason: they usually go down well with guests, and if you’re going down the homemade route, this is an extra opportunity to personalise your day by using ingredients or recipes with a particular meaning to you. We’ve seen some lovely ideas over the years, such as pots of jam made from the groom’s grandmother’s special recipe, miniature bottles of gin created from sloes foraged by
Printable from ÂŁ25.19, The Fabled Papery at Etsy
the couple, and olive oil infused with herbs from the bride’s parents’ garden. Delightful as these ideas are, you may not always end up saving yourselves much money, if any at all. On a website such as justminiatures.co.uk, for example, you can buy little jars of jam for around 31p each, while making your own conserve would involve buying fruit and other ingredients, as well as jars and labels. So, if saving cash is your priority, work out the exact SHU IDYRXU FRVW RI \RXU SURMHFW 7KH VDPH goes for non-edible homemade favours, particularly if they’re scented, such as candles and soap – essential oils can turn out to be surprisingly expensive. Of course, the personalisation aspect may be more important to you than money. If so, just remember that when it comes to favours, that means one per guest – choose a make-ahead project you can create early on and store, so you don’t end up frantically decanting jam into 120 tiny pots the night before your wedding.
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w w w. a t e l i e r e m e l i a . c o m
Blackburn Bridal Couture, London - 0208 297 1188 • Morgan Davies, Hertfordshire - 01462 432889 • Alice May Bridal, Dublin - 00 353 12950006 UK & Ireland Agent Dexterblack Agency email for stockist inquiries info@dexterblackagency.com
Inspiration “A wedding should be recorded beautifully�
Photography
At You & Your Wedding, we are passionate about beautiful wedding photography – you just have to see our real weddings section to know that. Your big day is likely to be one of the very few times you’ll have all the people who are important to you from the different parts of your lives together in one room, and it should be recorded beautifully. You’re not just paying for a photographer’s expertise in taking the photos – professionals will spend hours editing the images so they look truly wonderful. With that in mind, and without going over-budget, we recommend choosing the best photographer you can afford. If you’re marrying in autumn, winter, or midweek, you may be able to save money by asking for reduced coverage – having the photographer there for your ceremony and the beginning of the reception, for example, rather than having them there for the whole day. However, in peak wedding season it’s unlikely a popular photographer would agree to this (it’s still worth checking, though). You could also put off buying an album until you can afford it, or see if you can get a digital-only package and print your own photos. As for the DIY route, you wouldn’t actually take the photographs yourselves, obviously – it would have to involve enlisting a talented friend or family member. It’s important to manage your expectations with this. A good professional photographer is adept at ensuring all guests are captured, putting people at ease for posed shots, and getting those candid images of everyone enjoying themselves. You can’t expect an amateur to do that – and they won’t really relax and have fun while trying to do their best. If you don’t want to pile the pressure on one person, you could ask your guests to upload their own photos to a service such as WedPics or Dropbox, so you have a digital record of the day from everyone there.
Photographs by Jordan Banks of Source Images    
Drink
No, we’re not talking about creating homemade wine! This is about sourcing the drinks to serve at your reception, rather than having the venue supply them. The advantages of doing so are obvious: you should be able to get a good price if you’re buying in bulk from a company such as Laithwaite’s Wine. However, some venues ZRQ¡W DOORZ WKLV VR GR FKHFN ÀUVW ,I \RXU venue charges a corkage fee to serve your wine, it may still work out cheaper per bottle to pay it, so calculate carefully. You should also ask about storing your drinks ahead of the wedding. Next, work out how much you’ll need, depending on the size of your guest list. Ask your wine merchant about buying on a sale or return basis, so if you over-order, you won’t lose out. And try to choose a supplier that offers free tastings!
youandyourwedding.co.uk 115
Inspiration Flowers
You could certainly make a big saving if you provide your own feast, or ask friends and family to bring dishes. However, food is such a key part of the wedding experience – so is it really worth the risk of everything going wrong, not to mention the stress? “Even if you’re a brilliant cook, the logistics of shopping, cooking, storing, transporting and serving food in large quantities is a challenge – just think of the fridge space you’d need, for starters!â€? says Lisa Silcock of leading caterer Black Pot. “You can run into food safety issues if things like meat aren’t properly stored, and the risk of giving your wedding guests food poisoning doesn’t bear thinking about.â€? Rather than going DIY, ask your caterer – before you book – if they have any ideas for cutting costs. “A caterer should work with you and suggest a few ideas – if they GRQ¡W PD\EH Ă€QG D GLIIHUHQW FDWHUHU Îź VD\V Lisa. “They might offer a cheaper menu which is simpler to prepare, using more economical ingredients. We once made shepherd’s pies to share followed by Eton mess – delicious, but pretty economical. Or they might suggest cutting a course, such as canapĂŠs instead of a starter.â€? You could also review your guest list – after all, catering is a per-head cost. “If you try to cut back too much on, say, serving staff, or food quality, your event could suffer and you might be disappointed,â€? says Lisa. If you want to add a personal twist to the food, talk to your caterer about providing your own treats. “We recently catered a wedding where the bride’s father, who lived in Cornwall, drove to London with 200 freshly baked Cornish pasties that we served to the guests for late night snacks!â€? adds Lisa. “Just remember that not all caterers will serve food they haven’t made, as there are food safety and other issues involved.â€?
116 youandyourwedding.co.uk
The Great British Florist
Hire LOVE There are some things you just can’t DIY. We’re talking about tableware – no one in their right mind would attempt to make their own cutlery or glassware! And if your venue or caterer isn’t providing this – or if what they do have doesn’t suit your theme – buying these items would be a very costly endeavour. What’s more, you’d be left with an intimidating number of plates and table runners to store at home afterwards. The solution is to get hiring – and the following are great companies to have a look at.
The China Library Specialists in vintage china and glassware Duchess & Butler Luxe dinnerware and furniture Table to Dine For Particularly lovely linens Classic Crockery Stylish tableware and props Knot & Pop Items sourced with impeccable taste Another Story Coolness for alternative couples
WORDS BY HANNAH DAVIES. PHOTOGRAPHS BY GETTY
Food
If you want intricate arrangements or D YHU\ VSHFLĂ€F ORRN OHDYH \RXU Ă RUDO DUUDQJHPHQWV WR D SURIHVVLRQDO Ă RULVW If your vision is more laid-back and natural, \RX FDQ GHĂ€QLWHO\ VDYH PRQH\ E\ GRLQJ \RXU RZQ Ă RZHUV ´$ EXFNHW RI EORRPV FRVWV DERXW IURP XV DQG LW ZLOO Ă€OO around 12 jars,â€? says Heather Gorringe of Great British Florist. “If you were to buy ready-made arrangements, they would cost around ÂŁ20–30 each.â€? The key is to be realistic about what you can achieve. “Couples usually get us to make the really important, but stressful bits, such as the bouquet and buttonholes, while they concentrate on the reception Ă RZHUV ZKLFK ZRUNV UHDOO\ ZHOO Îź VD\V Heather. “There are lots of videos out there,
our own included, to help you get the look you want, and we also offer workshops for DIY weddings.â€? That said, you do need to be organised: Ă€QG RXW ZKHUH \RXU YHQXH FDQ VWRUH WKH blooms (you need somewhere cool), and make a plan as to exactly when you’ll start doing the arrangements and who will help you. “If you are making and putting them in ultra-clean glassware with the very freshest water, it would be perfectly feasible to make on the Thursday for a Saturday wedding as long as you keep them cool,â€? says Heather. Don’t forget, you’ll also need vessels to put them in, so factor in the cost of hire, or ask friends and family to start collecting a particular type of bottle or jar for you.
Problem? Solved!
Dear Y&YW...
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Your wedding issues sorted From choosing the perfect dress to dealing with venue issues, we’re here with the best advice to help your big day run smoothly Thinking ahead
the shoot, as having this opportunity to break the ice and get to know the person taking the photos may make you less nervous on the actual day.
W
e aren’t getting married until next summer, so when would be a good time to buy my bridesmaids’ dresses? Laura565
Dressing up
M
Communication chaos
A
lthough we’re renewing our vows very soon, the wedding events manager from our venue still hasn’t organised a meeting date yet. I’m given different information about when the meeting should be happening every time I call. I feel pushy always chasing them up, but what can I do? Fiona_wed Y&YW says: When it comes to any special day, you need everything to be perfect, so we totally understand the frustration about not being able to get hold of your venue coordinator. Send an email so your correspondence is in writing, and explain that you’re very excited about your upcoming vow renewal, but you need reassurance in the form of a 118 youandyourwedding.co.uk
meeting to discuss the finer details. Give a list of dates when you are available and ask that they contact you within the next few days to get you booked in. Don’t be afraid to follow up if you don’t hear back. It’s likely the venue is busy with other events, but you have every right to be in the know about yours!
Photo fears
O
ur engagement shoot is coming up very soon, but I’m usually really nervous in front of the camera. I’m really worried I won’t look nice in any of the pictures. Do you have any advice? MrsDavidson
Y&YW says: An engagement shoot is supposed to be fun – it’s your chance to document one of the happiest times in your life. Try to think about enjoying yourself with your partner rather than worrying about posing for the photographer. To ensure you’re fully relaxed on the day, make sure you wear a nice outfit you know you will feel comfortable in, take some deep breaths while the photographer is setting up, and give your arms and legs a good shake to release any tension beforehand. Another good idea is to arrange a casual meeting with your photographer before
Y&YW says: It can be tricky choosing a dress to suit two diferent venues, but rest assured that there are lots of clever tricks that you can do to change up your look to make it appropriate for both. You could buy a small jacket or shrug to wear at the register oice, and then take it of for the after-party. Alternatively, you could switch up your jewellery to create one simple look and then a more glamorous style for later on. Regardless, as long as you feel comfortable and confident in what you are wearing, then you will look fabulous. Before making any rash decisions about buying a new wedding dress, be sure to try on your gown a few times before the wedding day to see how you feel in it.
Need help with wediquette? Talk to us at facebook.com/ youyourwedding, post your problem at youandyour wedding.co.uk/forum or email yywwebeditor@ immediate.co.uk
WORDS BY RACHEL AVERY. ILLUSTRATION BY ADRIAN VALENCIA
y partner and I will be getting married at a register office before going on to a hotel for our reception. I’ve bought a glam princess-style wedding dress, but I’m worried this is going to be too much and I’m going to look silly. Do you think I should buy a new dress? SarahAnne
Y&YW says: It’s surprising how quickly the big day will come around now it’s less than a year away, so you can definitely start looking at dresses now. You’ll begin to get a feel for the styles, colours and brands you like, as well as seeing which ones you’re not as keen on. Book a date in the diary early in the new year to get your maids together for a dress-shopping session. Having lots of time to choose your dream styles will ensure that the process is enjoyable, and not stressful.
You & Your Wedding reader event
An evening with
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Gather your girls and join You & Your Wedding for a fun and FREE fashion event in London or Birmingham this November – it’s time to get inspired!
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an you think of anything more perfect than spending an evening discovering the latest in bridal fashion while enjoying a glass of À]]" $GG WR WKDW WKH RSSRUWXQLW\ WR JHW wedding inspiration from hairstylists, makeXS DUWLVWV ZHGGLQJ FDNH PDNHUV DQG à RULVWV and you’ve got an event not to be missed – especially as it’s free! So bring your mum and bridesmaids and get ready to enjoy a wonderful evening. You & Your Wedding will be there, together with its sister brand, hitched.co.uk – and they’ll be bringing along their hair and beauty experts to help you create the look you want for your special day. One of the highlights of the evening will be a catwalk show, giving you an exclusive preview of dresses from the stunning new David’s Bridal collection, which includes SOXV VL]HV 7KHQ LW¡V \RXU WXUQ WU\ RQ \RXU favourite gowns, shoes, accessories, veils DQG HPEHOOLVKPHQWV ² DQG LI \RX ÀQG WKH
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Tickets are limited, so get yours now at theweddingnetwork.eventbrite.co.uk
* Valid on date of event only. You must have your event ticket with you at time of purchase. T&Cs apply.
Palm tea towel, £40 for a set of two
Inspiration
HOME, SWEET HOME
Brass bookends, £175
Crocodile candlestick holder, £145 Porcelain bookends, £395
Serpent candle, £145
We’re seriously excited about some new homewares at gift list service The Wedding Shop, particularly this range from London boho-chic palace House of Hackney. Who doesn’t love a tropical-inspired interior?
Planning NEWS Expert tips and trends for your big day
SO HOT!
▲ FAVOURS WITH HEART We love the new pin badges from Macmillan Cancer Support – charity favours with a sweetly stylish feel, £12.95 for a pack of 10, shop.macmillan.org.uk/wedding
GENEROUS BEST MEN Aside from your parents, they spend the most on your wedding of any guest, including on their gift to you, according to a new survey* – who knew?
INTERACTIVE CHILDREN’S TABLES Keep little ones amused during the wedding breakfast with a chalkboard table runner they can doodle on, £29.95, eatwell-uk.co.uk
Bridal
FLYING HIGH We love the new Flyer service from Paperless Post, where you can create a free shareable event page with images and gifs, and track RSVPs – perfect for stylishly organising a hen do, paperlesspost.com/flyer
Going local with your food has been big news for the past couple of years, so why not do the same with your drinks? Leading the charge in British sparkling wine is Nyetimber in West Sussex – we think their Classic Cuvée would be wonderful at a drinks reception, nyetimber.com
VENUE INSIDER
BAROMETER FRO-YO We’re all about ‘fro-ro’ now – frozen rosé popsicles by Mirabeau that are perfect for your hen party, £2.99 each, available at Waitrose.
MANNERS, APPARENTLY Forty-two percent of engaged couples in a recent survey** said they’d made their “We’re getting married!” announcement on social media before telling friends and family.
The latest openings and hottest happenings
THANK-YOU STRESS Head to buildmygift.com to make a tailored box of treats for each of your wedding party.
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NEW BARN Wharfedale Grange, nr Leeds wharfedalegrange.co.uk
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OPENING SOON Barton Court, Herefordshire bartoncourtonline.co.uk
FOR INTIMATE PARTIES The Boathouse, London boathouselondon.co.uk
SO NOT!
*MAY 2018 SURVEY BY WONGA **JUNE 2018 SURVEY BY PROTECT YOUR BUBBLE
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Show TIME The National Wedding Show is the ultimate destination for planning and inspiration, so grab your partner or your bride tribe to enjoy a fun-ďŹ lled day out
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rowsing online to create a mood board is a great way to get a sense of what you like, but what if you could actually try on that gorgeous designer bridal gown or have a taste of that delicious-looking wedding cake? The National Wedding Show offers couples the chance to buy, book and hire everything they need for their big day. There are hundreds of wedding specialists on hand, including boutiques, à RULVWV YHQXHV DQG VWDWLRQHU\ There’s much to be enjoyed beyond planning, too. Get \RXU PDNH XS GRQH KDYH D JODVV RI À]] DQG PDNH D GD out of it with afternoon tea after you’ve explored Get the show. Here are six National Wedding Show tickets highlights you shouldn’t miss...
two for just
ÂŁ25!
or ÂŁ10 of a VIP experience ticket* To claim your discount, go to nationalweddingshow.co.uk and use code Y Y W N at the checkout
Walk the walk Spot the latest fashion trends at the National Wedding Show’s iconic catwalk. The highly anticipated shows take place four times a day, and showcase fabulous RXWÀWV IRU WKH HQWLUH EULGDO SDUW\ 7KH glamorous looks are complete with hair, accessories and make-up, and you might even pick up some tips on how to master that walk down the aisle. In the lap of luxury A VIP ticket is a great way to make your National Wedding Show experience extra glamorous. Plus, it means you can skip the crowds at the door and guarantees you a seat at the catwalk. You’ll also receive a 9,3 JRRG\ EDJ ÀOOHG ZLWK H[FOXVLYH WUHDWV a complimentary pink G&T courtesy of Manchester Gin, and the latest issue of Confetti magazine.
Make a toast If you need a break from all the wedding planning, want to compare notes on the exhibitors you’ve seen, RU VLPSO\ IDQF\ D JODVV RI À]] WKH Champagne Bar is just the place. Located at the heart of the show, it offers a wide range of refreshments and plenty of room to sit back and relax. Be inspired Visit the Inspiration Lab to get some hands-on DIY wedding experience. There are workshops on everything IURP GHVLJQLQJ \RXU RZQ à RUDO headdress to calligraphy, and the skills learned will be so useful for all things wedding-related – including hen parties and honeymoons.
Visit The National Wedding Show at: Olympia London Friday 21 – Sunday 23 September NEC Birmingham Friday 28 – Sunday 30 September ExCeL London Saturday 13 – Sunday 14 October Manchester Central Saturday 27 – Sunday 28 October
It’s all in the details Regardless of your wedding theme, the key to make it come together lies in the details. Things like invitations, orders of service, table plans and thank you cards can really bring a theme to life, and there are so many stationery styles to discover at the National Wedding Show.
To book your tickets and take advantage of an exclusive discount, use code YYWN at nationalweddingshow.co.uk *Transaction fee applies. Saving based on door price of ÂŁ20 (Adult) and ÂŁ40 (VIP)/ ÂŁ35 (VIP Manchester). Ofer expires on Thursday prior to each show. Show content subject to change.
Images courtesy of Ashley Bingham, Louise Bjorling, Theo Cohen and Catherine Noble.
IT’S A DATE
Have your cake The Inspired Bakes gallery is a showcase of stunning wedding cakes made by talented bakers from all over the UK. Previous themes have included Provence Dreams, Great Gatsby Glam, Fairytale Chic and Midsummer Night’s Dream, featuring breathtaking sweet creations that have captivated visitors’ imaginations.
Lust-haves
PICK‘n’ LIST Gorgeous gift-list inspiration for every pocket
THIS ISSUE Bring bold colours into your home with these stunning presents Prezola
The Wedding Shop
The Wedding Present Co.
Patterned cushion, £40, Orla Kiely
Cast-iron fondue set, £185, Le Creuset
Flex-detail lamp, £155, Anna Jacobs
Mini DAB/FM radio, £150, Roberts
24-piece cutlery set, £219, Cutipol
Food blender, £179, KitchenAid
Salt and pepper mills, £29 each, Le Creuset
Handwoven rug, £605, Dash & Albert
Scalloped serving bowl, £177, Julia Knight
Portable barbecue, £80, Wild & Wolf
Motif towels, from £8.95, Ralph Lauren
Nesting bowls, £114, Canvas Home
Spot goblets, £59 for six, Bitossi Home
Colourful jug, £28, Bombay Duck
Conical laundry basket, £124, Artisanne
Stand mixer, £599, KitchenAid
Sheepskin covered stall, £235, Baa Stool
Accent chair, £399, Made.com
Large vase, £36.95, Nkuku
MODERN TEAL
ZESTY YELLOW
REGAL NAVY
MILLENNIAL PINK
VIBRANT ORANGE
Amara
Embroidered velvet cushion, £134, Joanna Buchanan
youandyourwedding.co.uk 127
Be organised
The ultimate PLANNING CHECKLIST
Welcome to the wonderful world of organising your wedding. To give you a helping hand, we have put together a to-do list to make sure you don’t miss a thing... Agree on a budget Draft a rough guest list so you know what size of venue to look for Decide whether you would prefer a civil or religious wedding ceremony and what type of venue you want View and book your venue Book your church and registrar/other celebrant Finalise your guest list Invest in wedding insurance Book your photographer and videographer
12 MONTHS TO GO Choose your bridesmaids, best man and ushers Send out your save the dates Book transport, if you need it Book your entertainment If you need to hire caterers, book them and discuss the menu options Start dress shopping Start bridesmaid dress shopping Book your hair and make-up artist, if you're having them
NINE MONTHS TO GO Book your florist Book your cake maker Order the dress, if you haven’t already Buy your bridal accessories, such as shoes, jewellery and underwear Sort out your favours Give notice to your local registrar (if having a civil ceremony). This is valid for one year
SIX MONTHS TO GO Start shopping for groomswear Buy the bridesmaid dresses if you haven’t already Book your honeymoon Buy your wedding rings Sort out your first-night accommodation Discuss the order of service with the vicar or registrar Choose the readings, hymns, songs or poems you want at your ceremony If you’re writing your own vows, start now Set up your gift list
THREE MONTHS TO GO Send out your invitations Have dress and/or suit fittings Have a hair and make-up trial Go on your hen and stag dos Break in your shoes Start writing the speeches Buy thank you gifts for key members of the bridal party Have a menu tasting with your caterers Start the table plan Confirm guest numbers and any dietary requirements with your venue and caterers four to six weeks before the day
ONE WEEK TO GO Have a wedding rehearsal (if required) Confirm bookings and timings with your suppliers Go through the day plan and duties with the wedding party Settle all final balances Collect any hired items Pick up your wedding dress
To download this checklist, and for more planning advice, visit youandyourwedding.co.uk 128 youandyourwedding.co.uk
ILLUSTRATION BY GETTY
18 MONTHS TO GO
You & Your Wedding offer
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TERMS AND CONDITIONS Ofer ends at 23.59pm on 31.10.18. *The 25% discount is available on full-price merchandise only online at freyarose.com. To shop online, enter YYW25 at the checkout. Single use only. Only one discount per transaction. Photocopies not accepted. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other ofer, promotion or discount. No cash alternative. Returned items will be refunded at the discounted price paid. Not available in conjunction with any staf discount cards. Find full T&Cs at youandyourwedding.co.uk. Promoter is Immediate Media Company Limited, 44 Brook Green, London W6 7BT youandyourwedding.co.uk 129
Debating team
Bride
wars We present both sides of the most controversial wedding topics
ROSIE CONROY, JOURNALIST, SAYS:
“A
s someone who effectively upgraded their engagement ring before it was even bought, I would have no problem with giving myself a little ‘ring-provement’ in the future. Let me explain: my boyfriend borrowed a ring for the proposal, then WRRN PH EDFN WR WKH VKRS WR SLFN D Ă€QDO GHVLJQ , SROLWHO\ declined any of the options there and sourced myself a bespoke ring from somewhere else for the budget he’d set. I know what you’re thinking, and yes, his patience is part of the reason I’m marrying him. Anyway, back to the main point. This isn’t to say I want to right now, but I don’t know why you wouldn’t upgrade your engagement ring. In what other area of your life “JUST BECAUSE wouldn’t you jazz things up A RING HOLDS a little if you got your paws SENTIMENTAL on some extra pound notes? my salary has grown over VALUE DOESN’T As the years, I’ve improved my MEAN IT wardrobe, my house and my holidays – not to mention that SHOULD BE RESERVED FOR ultimate wealth indicator, my lunches. There’s no RELIC STATUSâ€? packed great bible of love out there that rules out upgrading your engagement ring. Just because a ring holds sentimental value, I don’t think it should be reserved for relic status – never to be touched again after the proposal. For me, the value of an engagement ring isn’t in the ring itself – it’s in the sentiment of the proposal. The ring is a nice additional extra to betrothing yourself to the love of your life. At no point do I mean I’d sling my ring over my shoulder given the chance of a bigger, shinier diamond. I’m not mad. However, there are all kinds of ways to upgrade your bling. You can add diamonds, have it reset, or even add a new ring in one of those new-fangled ‘stacked’ situations. Go for it if that’s what would make you happy, and if anyone questions you, tell them you felt it was time to ring the changes!â€?
NO! KAREN CINNAMON, SMASHINGTHEGLASS.COM FOUNDER, SAYS:
“L
et me just preface this by saying that my own engagement ring is the most exquisite piece of jewellery anyone could wish for. It’s an extraordinary emerald-cut diamond ring that my husband’s dear grandfather, a talented Hatton Garden jeweller, designed for his beloved wife some 80 years ago. Granted, in my opinion, it’s a phenomenal ring with huge sentimental value. But even if that was not the case, I would never upgrade it. For me, it’s not about the ring, it’s what WKH ULQJ UHSUHVHQWV , FRXOG EX\ D ULQJ IRU DQ\ RWKHU Ă€QJHU at any other time, but this is the one that’s an imprint of an irreplaceable moment in our lives. This is the one with the meaning and the symbolism. “I WOULD And it’s the word ‘upgrade’ that I have a particular problem NEVER with. It’s harsh, it’s throwaway, UPGRADE MY and the assumption is that you’re trading up, to improve RING... IT’S NOT ABOUT THE in some way, to get a bigger, Ă DVKLHU PRUH EHDXWLIXO ULQJ RING, IT’S Besides, if you start upgrading, WHAT IT when do you stop? There REPRESENTSâ€? will always be bigger, there will always be blingier, trends will always change. I have a friend who, some 15 years ago, was given a cubic zirconia engagement ring as it’s all her husband could afford at the time. He told her they could upgrade when they could afford to, but when the time came she had no desire to do so. The stone wasn’t important to her. What was important was that it was the ring he gave her at that point in their life when he knew he wanted to spend forever with her. And even though no one would have known it wasn’t a diamond, she never pretended that it was, and this really made an impression on me. Like everything in life, there will always be a better ‘version’ at some point or another. But nothing replaces sentimental meaning and what that ring represents.â€?
Join the debate! Let us know where you stand (on this and other wed-related issues) at facebook.com/youyourwedding, or talk it out at youandyourwedding.co.uk/forum 130 youandyourwedding.co.uk
PHOTOGRAPH OF KAREN CINNAMON BY BLAKE EZRA PHOTOGRAPHY
YES!
THIS ISSUE: If your ďŹ nances improved, would you upgrade your engagement ring?
You & Your Wedding reader event
A TICKET TO
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arried m e b o t s n a e t it really m a h w r e v o c â&#x20AC;&#x153;I doâ&#x20AC;? is e d h t o t r e s e ft a id r g b n l o a r lationship st We talk to re e r r u o y p e e k â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and how to the average age at which brides say â&#x20AC;&#x153;I doâ&#x20AC;? is now 31*, and
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hatever wedding ceremony you have, chances are that the idea of embarking on a new life together will be mentioned. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been WR &KXUFK RI (QJODQG ZHGGLQJV IRU H[DPSOH youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be familiar with the part of the ceremony where the YLFDU ² DIWHU H[WROOLQJ WKH LPSRUWDQFH DQG VDQFWLW\ RI PDUULDJH â&#x20AC;&#x201C; utters the words: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Catherine and John are now to enter this way of lifeâ&#x20AC;?. Even if you just have the legally required declaration in a civil ceremony, we bet the idea of marriage being the start of a new life will crop up in the speeches, guest-book messages and wedding cards. But what does this actually mean when it comes to modern marriage?
Adapting lives
For older generations, when society frowned upon living together before marriage, the phrase was pertinent: this new â&#x20AC;&#x153;way of lifeâ&#x20AC;? meant setting up a home together and starting D IDPLO\ 7KHVH GD\V DFFRUGLQJ WR WKH 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH RI 1DWLRQDO Statistics, the number of unmarried cohabiting couples has doubled to 3.3 million, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entirely likely that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re already the co-owners of a bed and toaster â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not to mention a child or two â&#x20AC;&#x201C; when you take to the aisle. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, 132 youandyourwedding.co.uk
PDUULDJHV IRU ZRPHQ DJHG EHWZHHQ DQG DUH RQ WKH increase. So, even if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve decided not to move in together until after the wedding, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll probably each have a good few years of independence under your belt: time spent OLYLQJ DORQH RU ZLWK IULHQGV PDQDJLQJ \RXU RZQ Ă&#x20AC;QDQFHV and curating a life you love. Whether you cohabit or not, modern marriage isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t so much about entering into a new way of life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more like an adaptation of one youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve already been enjoying. The challenge these days is making a marriage work when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re two independent people.
Two become one?
Married couples are often described as a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;unitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but perhaps itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healthier to think of yourselves as a team. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re two people who have retained your individualities, but work together towards common goals. While it may sound romantic to become an inseparable unit, continuing to nurture your individual lives is key for a partnership WKDW JRHV WKH GLVWDQFH ´,Q ORYH WKH SDUDGR[ RFFXUV WKDW two beings become one and yet remain two,â&#x20AC;? as the 20th-century psychoanalyst Erich Fromm put it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maintaining your independence forms a healthy relationship because it means neither of you relies on
WORDS BY MELANIE MACLEOD AND HANNAH DAVIES, PHOTOGRAPHS BY GETTY *ACCORDING TO THE 21ST CENTURY BRIDE SURVEY 2018 BY YOU & YOUR WEDDING AND HITCHED.CO.UK
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Married life
one another solely,â&#x20AC;? says blogger Sophie Hannah Richardson, who got married in June 2018. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Independence means you are able to both do your own thing, but know you will always go back to them at the end of the day. It creates conversation DQG H[FLWHPHQW ZLWKLQ D UHODWLRQVKLS WR VHH \RXU RWKHU KDOI enjoying things they love to do, and vice versa.â&#x20AC;?
Still the same
If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re struggling to maintain your independent identity, there are plenty of ways to hold onto it. Stay in touch with your friends as much as possible, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t turn down invitations just because your other half canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have friends who have opted out of coming to dinner parties because their partner is away on business,â&#x20AC;? says Holly, a bride-to-be from Warwick. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It would never occur WR PH QRW WR DWWHQG VRPHWKLQJ MXVW EHFDXVH P\ Ă&#x20AC;DQFp isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t around â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all the more reason to go!â&#x20AC;? Just because you feel like two halves of a whole, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean your friends only want to see you as a pair. Work on your friendships, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see your pals as a second choice if your partner isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t available. Even if you do make the effort, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible that some friends will make the assumption that marriage means â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sans-spouseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; socialising is impossible. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One thing that surprised me after we got married was that people treated us like one person,â&#x20AC;? says Ali, who married Mark in 2017. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While we were living together, we got invited on separate nights out, but that gradually stopped after the wedding. People seemed to think we could only do things together.â&#x20AC;? :KDW LI OLNH $OL \RX DOVR Ă&#x20AC;QG WKDW VROR LQYLWDWLRQV DUH drying up? Honesty is the way forward. Tell your friends that \RX¡UH KXUW WR EH H[FOXGHG DQG UHPLQG WKHP WKDW \RX¡UH WKH VDPH SHUVRQ \RX ZHUH EHIRUH \RX JRW D ULQJ RQ \RXU Ă&#x20AC;QJHU
Of course, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re leading two independent lives, being fully present when you spend time together is important. Schedule time to enjoy each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company, and make special plans â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all too easy to do fun things with friends every night of the week, and later just slump on the VRID ZLWK \RXU SDUWQHU PLQGOHVVO\ ZDWFKLQJ VKRZV RQ 1HWĂ L[
Date night
Pencil in dates and days out with your spouse â&#x20AC;&#x201C; make sure you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t only spend downtime together, but also enjoy that time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A few months after we got married, I realised that Tom and I had got into the habit of only doing practical things together,â&#x20AC;? reveals Viv, whose wedding was in 2016. â&#x20AC;&#x153;DIY RQ WKH QHZ Ă DW WULSV WR ,NHD IRRG shoppingâ&#x20AC;Ś When I thought about it, I realised this was actually a rut we were already in when we got married.â&#x20AC;? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s normal to fall into a routine in a relationship. The problem is when it feels like that rut. Unless you have unlimited funds (and energy reserves), itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unlikely youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be regularly dining at new restaurants and taking off to romantic hotels. But little changes can make a difference. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I hate the phrase â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;date nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, but we did start scheduling in a special evening every week that was about the two of us doing something different, even if that just meant going to the pub and talking about our dreams for the future,â&#x20AC;? VD\V 9LY ´3RVW ZHGGLQJ , IHOW TXLWH ORZ DV LI WKH H[FLWHPHQW had gone. Making time that wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t about chores helped PDNH XV ERWK IHHO H[FLWHG DERXW WKH UHODWLRQVKLS DJDLQ Îź Maybe the idea of marriage as a new way of life isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t totally irrelevant. Getting married is about loving each other in the present, but also promising to be with each other for the future. Look forward and spend real time talking about ZKHUH \RX¡G OLNH WR EH LQ Ă&#x20AC;YH RU \HDUV DQG KRZ \RX¡OO get there. Your post-wedding life may stay the same for a while, but you can plan for something totally different. You may not agree on the shape of your future, but discussing your goals means you can create your vision together.
PEOPLE STARTED TO TREAT US LIKE ONE PERSON
â&#x20AC;&#x153;
Making the effort
Travel is a great way to make sure you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lose sight of yourself. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always embraced solo adventures, or delighted in trips away with your friends, be sure to keep doing those things. So what if your partner doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to go to Madrid? Your married status doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t travel without them! Continuing to travel the world without your spouse will mean you still grow as an individual, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have lots to talk about when you return home.
â&#x20AC;?
youandyourwedding.co.uk 133
WHAT’S IN A NUMBER? ON AVERAGE WOMEN ARE
MEN ARE
31 32 WHEN THEY SAY “I DO”
WEDDINGS UNCOVERED
82 This is the
AVERAGE GUEST LIST for the day – but it rises to 106 when the evening guests arrive. 134 youandyourwedding.co.uk
VE R
The 21st Century Bride Survey by You & Your Wedding and its sister brand hitched.co.uk is the biggest in the UK – and this year, more than 4,300 couples told us how they are getting married. How does your day compare?
Y
AGING G EN
ON HOLIDAY IS THE MOST POPULAR TIME TO GET ENGAGED, WHILE THE AVERAGE TIME FROM PROPOSAL TO AISLE IS 20 MONTHS. MOST COUPLES AIM TO SPEND 7–12 MONTHS PLANNING W-DAY, LEAVING AT LEAST 8 MONTHS TO ENJOY BEING ENGAGED!
SUITS YOU?
While most grooms still prefer to go solo when looking for their suit, over a third do team up with their fiancée to shop.
PARTY TIME Who says a hen party has to be one night out? More than 50% of brides have had a whole weekend away for theirs.
21st Century Bride Survey
BARNSTORMING 28% of our couples choose a barn for their reception – the most popular type of wedding venue. Want to find your own rustic venue? Head to hitched.co.uk
TREAT YOURSELF Most brides plan to upgrade to a new fragrance ahead of their wedding, while the most popular pre-wedding
The Barn at Burley Manor
beauty treatments
are mani-pedis (of course), plus waxing, tanning and facials.
53%
TALKING OF BUDGET…
OF BRIDES WILL CONSIDER TEETH WHITENING
As in 2017, this year’s top spends are on your VENUE and HONEYMOON
£32,273
The new average wedding spend is over £5,112 more than 2017. Asking for family contributions is up 10% on last year, with 60% of couples funding their day with help from their families.
When it comes to asking for gifts, most couples are still keen on kitchenware and home décor. Honeymoon funds are also popular, with 61% of couples requesting contributions, either as their sole presents or alongside those homewares and other treats.
DRESS TO IMPRESS
Even more of you are planning to take a mini-moon AND a honeymoon – 22% are having both, as opposed to 15% in 2017. Well, you deserve it after all that planning! Italy and Greece are the most popular European destinations outside the UK, while Asia is the most chosen long-haul hotspot, with 43% heading there.
PRONOVIAS
WORDS BY HANNAH DAVIES. PHOTOGRAPHS BY DOMINIQUE BADER PHOTOGRAPHY, BENJAMIN HARCOM PHOTOGRAPHY AND GETTY
PRESENT & CORRECT
AFTER THE WEDDING…
Nearly two thirds of our brides find their dream dress in a local bridal boutique, visiting an average of three shops before making the big choice. youandyourwedding.co.uk 135
Celebrating
20 YEARS
THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NO.1 WEDDING WEBSITE YOUR WEDDING. PLANNED TO PERFECTION
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DREAM IT
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PLAN IT
VENUES MAGGIE SOTTERO
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BRIDESMAIDS
You can rely on our helpful planning tools every step of the way
BOOK IT
Browse over 6,000 venues and suppliers to create your dream wedding team
A SUIT THAT FITS
DARLING BUDS
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GROOMSWEAR HONEYMOONS
sinceritybridal.com
AISLEStyle
Dream dresses and accessories to make the ultimate entrance
PHOTOGRAPH BY RICHARD BURNS
In this issue, we’re embracing floating lace and tulle gowns (p160), keeping it chic in simple, modern styles (p154), striking a pose in dazzling designs (p174) and oozing glamour in a cool city venue (p140).
Lace dress, £1,700, Katya Katya. Tassel earrings, £8, and stacker rings, £12 for set of six, all Claire’s. Midi ring, £29, Astrid & Miyu
Embellished-sleeve dress, POA, Rime Arodaky. Tassel earrings, £8.99, H&M. Ribbon choker, from a selection, VV Rouleaux. Stacker rings (worn throughout), from £45 per ring, H.Samuel. Engagement ring (worn throughout), POA, 77 Diamonds. Yellow heels, £149, Kurt Geiger
ON
Open-back dress, £180, ASOS. Star headpiece, £375, Hermione Harbutt. Hoop earrings, £10, Claire’s. Rainbow sandals, £139, Kurt Geiger
Photography | Wendy Carrig Styling | Peta Hunt
Rule-shoulder dress, ÂŁ1,699, Martina Liana. Tassel hoop earrings, ÂŁ8, Claire's
Fishtail dress, £1,050, Ellis. Hoop earrings, and ribbon choker, both as before. Striped bag, £89, Kurt Geiger. Silver bangles, from £80 each, Ernest Jones
Plunge-front dress with attachable train, ÂŁ1,445, Justin Alexander. Large gold earrings, ÂŁ430, Loveness Lee. Yellow heels, as before
Belted dress, POA, Savin London. Moon earrings, ÂŁ40, Tatty Devine. Glitter boots, ÂŁ175, Dune London
Pearl-detail dress, £3,450, Reem Acra at The Wedding Club. Gold hoops £20, Johnny Loves Rosie
Tie-back dress, £2,200, Muscat. Circle earrings, £149, Sif Jakobs
Sequin midi dresses ÂŁ250, Damsel in a Dress. Embellished pink heels, ÂŁ149, Kurt Geiger
Sparkle top, £595, Theia at Blackburn Bridal. Long skirt, £995, Blackburn Couture. Large gold hoops, £10, John Lewis
Strapless dress, ÂŁ1,625, Alan Hannah. Circle drop earrings, ÂŁ125, Nocturne. Glitter boots, as before
Slip dress, £1,400, and cape, £390, both Grace Loves Lace. Hoop drop earrings, £25, LoveRocks. Pink bracelet, £6, Claire’s. Buckled mules, £465, Kalda at Shopbop Fashion assistant: Molly Coughlan. Hair and make-up by Denise Lilley deniselilleymakeup.co.uk using Paul Mitchell and Cosmetics à la Carte. Flowers by Primrose Hall Peonies and Paeonia Weddings and Event Floristry. The team shot on location at Town Hall Hotel, Bethnal Green, London
Short-sleeved dress, POA, Bo & Luca
Of-the-shoulder dress, £2,100, Blackburn Couture. Circle earrings, £119, Sif Jakobs. Bracelet, £55, Pandora. Flowers, POA, Primrose Hall
Drop earrings, £9.50, Marks & Spencer
Long-sleeved dress, £2,600, Roland Mouret at Net-a-Porter Flower hairpin, £48, Agnes Walker
Cowl-neck dress, £249, Monsoon
THE DRESSES Clean, contemporary dresses to complement our city setting Peep-toe heels, £35, Miss Selfridge
Crepe gown, POA, Pronovias
THE THEME A chic, modern wedding featuring beautifully bold flowers
AT OUR SHOOT
Clutch bag, £295, Pinko
SPECIAL THANKS
The fashion team shot on location at Town Hall Hotel in east London’s Bethnal Green area. This gorgeous Edwardian building combines wellpreserved historic architecture with contemporary design. Featuring quirky furnishings, spacious rooms and a trendy restaurant, it’s the perfect setting for a cool celebration in the city, townhallhotel.com 152 youandyourwedding.co.uk
THE ACCESSORIES Statement shoes and funky bags that bring a fresh edge to our elegant gowns
Embellished heels, £85, Dune London
Pearlmatte face powder, £24, MAC Cosmetics
Bee bangle, £70, Olivia Burton Micellar mousse, £65, Dior Prestige Peony and blush suede cologne, £90, Jo Malone
Key necklace, £150, Pandora
Gold hoops, £44, Melissa Odabash
56 PENTON STREET
LONDON N1 9QA
TEL: 020 7713 9022
Strapless ballgown, £1,375, Morilee. Flower birdcage headpiece, £520, Edwina Ibbotson Millinery. Hoop earrings, £58, Butler & Wilson. Bouquet, POA, Wildabout
ONTOP OF D L R O W E TH For sky-high gowns with style, team glittering twinkling acc essories liams
an Wil D | y h p a Photogr eta Hunt P | g n li Sty
Scoop-back dress, £1,950, Eliza Jane Howell. Birdcage headband, £180, Lizzie McQuade Millinery. Statement earrings, £12, Claire’s. Bouquet, as before
Fringed dress, €4,995 (approx. £4,449), YolanCris. Drop earrings, £35, Jon Richard
Embellished gown, £4,100, Rasha London. Fauxpearl hair clip, £20, LoveRocks. Sparkle earrings, £25, LoveRocks. Wide ring, £199, Sif Jacobs. Metallic shoes, £95, Dune London. Bouquet, as before
Long-sleeved dress, £6,285, Naeem Khan at The Wedding Club. Faux-pearl hair clip, as before. Star earrings, £25, LoveRocks. Wide ring, as before. Stack-style ring, £179, Sif Jakobs. Bouquet, POA, Hiding in the City Flowers
Sparkle camisole, £1,050, skirt, £2,900, and coat, £3,250, all Halfpenny London. Cat-eye sunglasses, £379, Swarovski. Star drop earrings, £78, Butler & Wilson. Clutch bag, £39, Kurt Geiger Fashion assistant: Molly Coughlan. Hair and make-up by Sophie Higginson using Bumble and bumble, Dermalogica and Laura Mercier. The fashion team shot on location at Dorsett City, London
Asymmetric dress, £2,595, Naomi Neoh. Floral headband, £160, Bee Smith. Pearl-fringed earrings, £140, Carousel Jewels. Silver bangles, £80 each, Ernest Jones. Baguette ring, £229, Sif Jakobs. Peep-toe shoes, £205, Rachel Simpson
one
FINE day Embrace the romance of the countryside with enchanting gowns of lace and tulle Photography | Richard Burns
Styling | Peta Hunt
Sparkle and tulle dress, £1,245, Charlotte Balbier. Flower veil, £180, Bee Smith. Crystal and pearl earrings, £150, Carousel Jewels. Midi ring, £29, Astrid & Miyu. V-shape ring, £35, silver band, £35, and curve ring, £90, all Pandora
Of-the-shoulder dress, ÂŁ2,380, Jenny Packham. Crystaldrop earrings, ÂŁ25, Alan Hannah Devoted. Peep-toe shoes, as before
Long-sleeved dress, £2,450, Jesús Peiró. Embellished headband, £465, Emily London. Tassel earrings, £8, Claire’s
Of-the-shoulder dress, £3,835, David Fielden. Pompom earrings, £60, Vjera V. Triple-stack rings, £8, Claire’s
Plunge dress, POA, Pronovias. Pearlscattered veil, £99, Rainbow Club. Star earrings, £24, LoveRocks. Peep-toe shoes, as before
Tiered gown, £2,570, and jacket, £575, both Sassi Holford. Tiara, £295, Halo & Co. Stacker rings, £12, Mood by Jon Richard. Crystal bracelet, £275, and earrings, £150, both Simon Harrison. Peep-toe shoes, as before
Lace dress, ÂŁ1,700, Katya Katya. Tassel earrings, as before
Embellished dress, ÂŁ5,450, Temperley London. Faux-pearl earrings, ÂŁ6.99, H&M. Crystal bracelet, as before
Plunge dress, ÂŁ2,870, Rosa ClarĂĄ. Crystaldrop earrings, as before. Stacker rings, as before. Peep-toe shoes, as before
Embroidered gown, £3,000, Margot Bridal at Heart Aflutter Bridal. Wide-brimmed hat, £1,125, Emily London. Embellished clutch bag, £495, Emmy London. Peep-toe shoes, as before
Halterneck dress, from £2,646, Inmaculada García at Blush & Ivory. Floral birdcage veil, £225, Nerida Fraiman. Hoop earrings, £34, Guess at WatchShop. Rings, as above Flowers, used throughout, by Wildabout Fashion assistant: Molly Coughlan. Hair and make-up by Sally Kvalheim using Laura Mercier and Kérastase. The fashion team shot on location at Valentina’s Lost Orangery, Castle Combe, Wiltshire
Flower headband, £12, Asos
Lace dress, £1,500, Mori Lee. Lace headband, £525, Emily-London. Star earrings, £8, Claire’s Patterned jacket, £890, and trousers, £240, both Favourbrook
Halterneck dress, £180, Lipsy
Of-theshoulder dress, £1,995, Temperley London at Net-a-Porter
Bracelet, £95, Lola Rose Embroidered gown, £950, Needle & Thread
THE DRESSES
Pleated dress, £10,995, Amanda Wakeley
Dreamy gowns of soft lace and tulle to complement our venue Faux pearldrop earrings, £15, J by Jasper Conran
AT OUR SHOOT
Ballet pumps, £65, Paradox London
Blush in Orgasm, £24, NARS
SPECIAL THANKS
The fashion team shot on location at Valentina’s Lost Orangery in Wiltshire. Set on 500 acres of stunning grounds, this private manor house combines quirky décor with incredible grandeur to beautiful effect. With a boating lake, tranquil gardens and even an outdoor chandelier, it’s an idyllic location for a countryside celebration, uniquehomestays.com 172 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Lipstick in World Class, £3, MUA
THE THEME Countryside romance, charming gowns and florals
Embellished heels, £745, Emmy London
THE ACCESSORIES We chose floating veils, pretty headpieces and subtle sparkle
Circle ring, £99, Sif Jakobs IMAGES © UNIQUE HOME STAYS UNIQUEHOMESTAYS.COM +44 (0) 1637 881183
Brow multitasker in Light Brunette, £22, Estée Lauder
Beaded bag, £69, Monsoon
Photographed on location at The Shard by Chris Dawes
Disc dress, £1,350, Charlie Brear. Star earrings, £228, sunbeam ring, £133, and snake ring, £99, all Zoe & Morgan Backdrop, GreatHire
From glitzy gowns to subtle, sparkling accessories – dazzle in these modern bridal styles Photography | Matt Porteous Styling | Peta Hunt
Silk dress, £1,430, kaftan, £795, and belt, £325, all Sassi Holford. Moon earrings, POA, Zoe & Morgan. Blue glasses, £379, Swarovski Backdrop, Bespoke London. Screen, GreatHire. Disco balls, Box Productions. Silk ribbons, Pompom Blossom
Bride Tailored jacket, £695, and trousers, £395, both Amanda Wakeley. Gold crown, £1,500, Viktoria Novak. Disc earrings, £250, Zoe & Morgan. Gold heels, £245, Freya Rose Bridesmaid Patterned dress, £1,295, Temperley London. Studded black courts, £80, Dune London Silver backdrop, Bespoke London
Silver dress, £3,250 and crop top, £1,250, both Temperley Bridal. Star headband, POA, Jennifer Behr. Sparkle earrings, £279, Atelier Swarovski. Engagement ring £6,500, Zoe & Morgan. Embellished heels, £950, Gina Silver backdrop, Bespoke London
Embroidered dress, £7,000, and veil, POA, both Hermione de Paula. Volcano earrings, £200, Zoe & Morgan Gold backdrop, GreatHire
Strapless dress and cape, £15,810, J’Aton Couture. Star and moon earrings, POA, Zoe & Morgan. Platform heels, £600, Charlotte Olympia Silver backdrop, Bespoke London. Ottoman, GreatHire
Fashion assistant: Molly Coughlan. Hair by Andrew Barton for Urban Retreat at The Wedding Gallery. Make-up by Kyra Valentina for Urban Retreat at The Wedding Gallery. Flowers by Larry Walshe Floral Design The fashion team shot at One Marylebone, London. All items featured are available to purchase by appointment at The Wedding Gallery, One Marylebone, London
Rose gold ring, £75, Monica Vinader Embellished dress, £395, Coast
Charm bracelet, £140, Links of London Layered ring, £46, Diamonique at qvc.co.uk
n Molly Coughla
FASHION AND EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Maid’s Wardrobe
GLITTER GIRLS
Star earrings, £49, Karl Lagerfeld
Beaded dress, £275, Adrianna Papell at John Lewis
N
othing says party time like plenty of sparkle. Whether your girls want to dance the night away in a fabulous beaded gown, or embrace subtle shimmer with metallic accessories, there’s a lot of choice for a look they’ll love.
LES HÉROÏNES
JB JASMINE
Choose A-list glamour with a dress that shines
WATTERS
Bow ring, £29, Ted Baker
Moon earrings, from £45, Monarc Jewellery
Strappy dress, £340, Outline London
Midi dress, £140, No.1 Jenny Packham at Debenhams
Metallic sandals, £49.99, Zara
Bow bag, £35, Paradox London
180 youandyourwedding.co.uk
QUIZ
MONIQUE LHUILLIER
Love earrings, £29, Carat London
CARLA RUIZ
Bridesmaids’ style
Mini dress, £350, Needle & Thread
Cocktail ring, POA, Gemporia
Silver bracelet, £49, LL Loves
Drop earrings, £12, River Island
ESTHER NORIEGA
KENNETH WINSTON
Multiway dress, £49, Jane Norman
Lace dress, £45, Mela London at House of Fraser
Silver mules, £35, Very
Little MAIDS Leather headband, £20, ValMax Empire-line dress, £49, Marks & Spencer
Feather dress, £65, Billieblush at House of Fraser
Pompom shoes, £50 Miss KG
Crown dress, £119, Rachel Riley
Daisy dress, from £140, Holly Hastie at AlexandAlexa
Apple bag, £95, David Charles at Childrensalon
Sequin dress, £99, Wild & Gorgeous
Glitter courts, £35, Very youandyourwedding.co.uk 181
Hunt PetaEDITOR-AT-LARGE
Drop earrings, £10, River Island
Red hat, £325, Lock & Co Hatters
CALL TO ARMS
Choose statement sleeves for an efortlessly elegant style
A
Printed dress, £790, Lena Hoschek
Oriental earrings, £75, Bill Skinner
Red bag, £55, Dune London
ANA TORRES
chic sleeve is a timeless choice. Wraps, capes, bell sleeves and feathers are all having a moment – and, teamed with a gorgeous print and fabric, are a fabulous pick for beautiful style. If you don’t want to cover up all day, adding a glamorous coat or jacket is an ideal way to ward off chilly weather, and creates a wonderful silhouette to transform your look from day to night.
CARLA RUIZ
ESTHER NORIEGA
Mother’s Wardrobe
Floral dress, £99, M&Co
ISABEL SANCHIS
Jacquard coat, £1,750, Suzannah
182 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Burgundy dress, £209, Joseph Ribkoff
Suede heels, £149, Lisa Kay London
PHOTOGRAPHS FROM BARCELONA BRIDAL WEEK
HOUSE OF MOOSHKI
Orange dress, POA, Xu Zhi
Mums’ style Gold earrings, £12, Oasis
Faux-fur jacket, £150, Coast
CARLA RUIZ
Flower-detail heels, £350, Lena Erziak
Flower hat, £1,083, Merve Bayindir
CONDICI
VERA MONT
Purple dress, £269, Marc Cain
JOHN CHARLES
Floral dress, £169, Hobbs
SUZANNAH
Palm-print dress, £590, Navro at Browns Fashion
Sequin clutch, £40, Therapy at House of Fraser youandyourwedding.co.uk 183
Get smart
Navy braces, £89, Oliver Brown
COMPILED BY PETA HUNT AND MOLLY COUGHLAN
GIEVES & HAWKES
TED BAKER AT MOSS BROS
Button culinks, £170, Brooks Brothers
Printed tie, £90, Corneliani
Morning coat, from £219, Hockerty
Threepiece suit, from £885, Yardsmen
Top hat, POA, Lock & Co. Hatters
HACKETT
Trinity wedding ring, £1,090, Cartier
Elephant tie, £49, Oliver Brown White shirt, £255, Turnbull & Asser
Groom’s Wardrobe Morning coat, £120, Autograph at Marks & Spencer
TOP TO TAILS Traditional wedding attire never goes out of style
FAVOURBROOK
F Pleated shirt, £145 (made to order), Marc Wallace
Leather brogues, £64.99, Base London
ormal celebrations require a dress code to match, so when it comes to looking polished, tails are a winning choice. Whether your man hires or buys, there’s a variety of prints, textures, and stylish accessories he can go for to make this look his own – after all, it’s his big day too!
Morning suit in black, £670, Oliver Brown
Mother of pearl culinks, £195, Drake’s
Metal watch, £1,705, Mont Blanc youandyourwedding.co.uk 185
Let’s get
THE UK’S NUMBER 1 WEDDING WEBSITE Dream it Plan it Book it O
O
GlossyGUIDE O
WORDS BY MELANIE MACLEOD. PHOTOGRAPH BY PIXELEYES PHOTOGRAPHY
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Clockwise from left Prada glasses, £217, Sunglasses Hut. Make-up bag, £19, J Crew. Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser 60ml, £8. Eve Lom Kiss Mix Lip Treatment 7ml, £16. Elemis Travel Pro Collagen Marine Cream 15ml, £28.30. Diptyque Protective Moisturizing Lotion 25ml, £16. Elie Saab Le Parfum In White eau de parfum 30ml, £41. Moroccanoil Treatment Original 25ml, £13.45. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Pocket Sun Cream SPF50+ 30ml, £6.66 from escentual.com. By Terry Compact Expert Dual Powder in No.7 Sun Desire, £15. Chloé Les Mini Chloé eau de toilette 20ml, £30. John Frieda Beach Blonde Sea Waves Sea Salt Spray 25ml, £1.99. Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask 100ml, £26.50. Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara 5ml, £10. Zoeva Caramel Melange Voyager Eyeshadow Palette, £12. Benefit Hello Happy Soft Blur Foundation 60ml, £8.50 from escentual.com. White tray, from a set of three, £75, The White Company
PERFEC TIL.COM
COLLAGEN DRINKS
ALSO AVAILABLE: COLLAGEN HAIR From Boots, Superdrug, supermarkets, Holland & Barrett, health stores, pharmacies With biotin which contributes to the maintenance of normal skin, plus zinc which contributes to the maintenance of normal hair. *UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No1 beauty supplement brand for skin, hair and nails. Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Unit Sales 52 w/e 2 December 2017.
Beauty BITES The latest and greatest get-gorgeous finds just for you
UNUSUAL
ingredients Move over, charcoal: there’s now a new wonder ingredient in town. It’s time to put shiitake mushrooms in our routines. Quantum
COOL
Botanika’s Hydrating Gel, £65, embraces the fungi
We are loving this year’s ’90s revival, and have fallen head over heels for Bobbi Brown’s Camo Luxe Collection, which includes an eye and cheek palette, £49.50, metallic eyeshadows, £27, and nail polishes in cool khaki shades, £14. Not the most obviously bridal of hues, but the products are so great for creating a fresh hen-do look, we’re happy to use some of our wedding budget on them…
to plump the skin, leaving it hydrated and dewy.
Picture
perfect
If nights spent worrying over wedmin have left you with dark circles under your eyes, Laura Mercier’s Secret Blurring Powder, £22, is the product for you. Not only does it set and prolong the wear of concealer, the blurring efect eliminates the appearance of fine lines.
Lovely
LASHES
We’ve long been calling on Blow Ltd for big, bouncy blow-dries, and now the brand is offering LVL Lash Lifts, too! The technician can come to your home, or you can visit a Blow Ltd beauty bar – you’ll leave with dark, long ODVKHV WKDW ORRN ÁDZOHVV without even one coat of mascara, blowltd.com
Secret beauty
WEAPON
There’s nothing we love quite like a multitasking beauty product, so Avon’s Skin So Soft Dry Oil Spray, £2.50, was an absolute revelation when we first tried it. Not only does it leave our skin silky soft (as promised), we discovered it’s also a godsend when it comes to fending of midges, mosquitoes and other pesky insects, as it contains citronella – so it’s ideal for packing for your honeymoon. youandyourwedding.co.uk 189
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We road test four gel polish brands to see if they live up to the hype
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Completely loyal to lacquer? Here are eight wedding-perfect polishes for your big dayâ&#x20AC;Ś
WORDS BY MELANIE MACLEOD. PHOTOGRAPH BY ANTONIO TERRON AT TRUNK ARCHIVE
THE TWO-WEEK TEST The brand Jessica GELeration Tested by Melanie Macleod, content writer The experience ´-HVVLFD *(/HUDWLRQ KDV D KXJH DUUD\ RI FRORXUV DYDLODEOH DQG LV D SRSXODU EUDQG LQ VSDV VR LW VHHPHG OLNH D OX[XULRXV FKRLFH , ZHDU P\ QDLOV TXLWH VKRUW ZKLFK FDQ VRPHWLPHV PHDQ JHO SROLVK OLIWV DW WKH VLGHV EXW WKDW ZDVQ¡W WKH FDVH ZLWK WKH VSDUNOLQJ WXUTXRLVH VKDGH , FKRVH 'XULQJ WKH IRUWQLJKW , ZRUH *(/HUDWLRQ , W\SHG DZD\ IXULRXVO\ DW ZRUN ZHQW WR WKH J\P ZHQW RQ KROLGD\ ZKHUH , ZDV FRQVWDQWO\ LQ DQG RXW RI WKH MDFX]]L DQG HYHQ ZHQW URFN FOLPELQJ ,¡P KDSS\ WR UHSRUW P\ QDLOV VWD\HG SHUIHFWO\ LQWDFW $VLGH IURP UHJURZWK WKH\ ORRNHG DV JRRG RQ GD\ DV WKH\ GLG RQ GD\ RQH ² LGHDO IRU EULGHV ZKR ZDQW D ORQJ ODVWLQJ PDQLFXUH Ο
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The brand OPI Gel Color Tested by Molly Coughlan, fashion and editorial assistant The experience ´$V D IDQ RI 23, SROLVKHV ZKHQ , SDLQW P\ QDLOV DW KRPH , ZDV NHHQ WR WU\ out the gel offering from the EUDQG , ZDV WUXO\ VSRLOW IRU FKRLFH ZKHQ LW FDPH WR FRORXUV , RSWHG IRU D GHHS PDXYH DQG UHFHLYHG SOHQW\ RI FRPSOLPHQWV RQ P\ IUHVK QHZ QDLOV RQ D QLJKW RXW $ ZHHN DIWHU P\ PDQLFXUH , KHOSHG D IULHQG PRYH KRXVH ² WKLQN SDFNLQJ ER[HV DQG VFUDEEOLQJ WKURXJK VKHOYHV ² DQG D VPDOO FKLS DSSHDUHG RQ P\ WKXPEQDLO 0\ RQO\ UHVHUYDWLRQ ZLWK JHO QDLOV LV WKDW WKH\¡UH PRUH GLIĂ&#x20AC;FXOW WR UHPRYH WKDQ DYHUDJH SROLVK VKRXOG WKH\ FKLS RU VPXGJH EXW ZLWK RQO\ RQH FKLS RYHU WZR ZHHNV P\ QDLOV ODVWHG ORQJHU WKDQ WKH\ ZRXOG XVXDOO\ 2YHUDOO , ZDV GHOLJKWHG Îź
The brand Artistic Tested by Katie Phipps, art editor The experience ´$UWLVWLF KDV PRUH WKDQ VKDGHV WR FKRRVH IURP DQG LV VWRFNHG LQ FKLF VDORQV VXFK DV &XFXPED LQ /RQGRQ¡V 6RKR ZKHUH , ZHQW IRU P\ PDQLFXUH *HO PDQLFXUHV FRVW D OLWWOH PRUH WKDQ D VWDQGDUG SROLVK PDQL VR LW ZDV QLFH WR EH LQ D OX[H VHWWLQJ IRU WKH WUHDWPHQW , FKRVH D VXEWOH SLQN QXGH FRORXU SHUIHFW WR PDWFK DQ\ RXWĂ&#x20AC;W DQG D FODVVLF FKRLFH IRU EULGHV $IWHU D ZHHN RI DFWLYLWLHV LQFOXGLQJ JDUGHQLQJ ND\DNLQJ DQG SXWWLQJ WRJHWKHU Ă DW SDFN IXUQLWXUH WKH JHO ZDV OLIWLQJ VOLJKWO\ DW WKH VLGHV )RU D PDQLFXUH WKDW ZRXOG VWD\ SHUIHFWO\ LQWDFW RQ \RXU ZHGGLQJ GD\ ZLWK JRUJHRXV KLJK VKLQH $UWLVWLF LV DQ LGHDO FKRLFH ² EXW LI \RX KDYH ORWV RI KDQGV RQ MREV LQ WKH OHDG XS WR \RXU ELJ GD\ LW¡V SUREDEO\ QRW WKH RQH Îź youandyourwedding.co.uk 191
H
ere at You & Your Wedding, we talk to brides a lot. And whenever we ask people for their perfume choices, the same scents seem to crop up. Chanel Mademoiselle is a fail-safe, J’Adore by Dior is perennially popular, while we’ve lost count of those who say they’ll be wearing Romance by Ralph Lauren. These scents are all undeniably gorgeous (I’ve worn Mademoiselle on special occasions since my 25th birthday), but are they a bit too reliable? It feels like we’re all well and truly stuck in a fragrance rut – so here are some new ideas if you want to change up your perfume in favour of something more daring…
WEDDING PERFUMES
rebooted
Who says you have to wear a delicate floral fragrance for your big day? Y&YW’s Melanie Macleod explains why it’s time to rewrite the wedding perfume rule book
192 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Heavenly scents UNISEX SCENTS In the past few years, there has been a surge in unisex fragrances, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a fan of the trend â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not least because it means I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to sneakily steal a spritz of my partnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cologne any more! According to scent expert Michael Edwardsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; industry tome Fragrances of the World, there are now as many unisex brands launched per year as there are femaletargeted fragrances, so it VKRXOG EH HDV\ WR Ă&#x20AC;QG RQH that suits your taste. *HQGHU QHXWUDO VFHQWV Ă&#x20AC;OO the gap between typically ÂśIHPLQLQH¡ Ă RUDO VFHQWV DQG musky â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;maleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; scents, fusing the two for a perfume that smells amazing on anyone. More sultry than sweet, both you and your partner can
wear these made-to-share scents on the big day and be transported back to the magical moment every time you unstop the bottle. My favourite unisex brands include Clean Reserve, Atelier Cologne and Byredo. Both my mother and I (a lifelong devotee of Chanel No. 5) obsessed for months over CamĂŠlia IntrĂŠpide by Atelier Cologne, before moving on to its Emeraude Agar. We also have designers Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen to thank for bringing unisex scents to the masses, with their Elizabeth and James range. The violet and sandalwood of Nirvana Black is the perfect choice to share with your spouse.
PHOTOGRAPH BY GETTY
PERSONAL PERFUMES
Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia Body Crème, £52
freedom to tailor your scent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At the moment, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m using English Pear & Freesia Body Crème in the morning, then I add a spritz of Mimosa & Cardamom Cologne for a JROGHQ Ă RUDO IUDJUDQFH Îź says CĂŠline Roux, head of fragrance development for the brand. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For the evening, I like the warmth of Peony & Blush Suede mixed with Mimosa & Cardamom â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it FUHDWHV D YHU\ RSXOHQW Ă RUDO scent. Layering like this helps to make fragrance last DOO GD\ DQG LV GHĂ&#x20AC;QLWHO\ RQH RI P\ IDYRXULWH WLSV Îź
Byredo Eleventh Hour, from ÂŁ105
Clean Reserve Avant Garden Collection, ÂŁ129
Jo Malone Mimosa & Cardamom, from ÂŁ45
LAYERING FRAGRANCES Layering scents is a great way to create a bespoke olfactory delight. It simply involves wearing two complementary perfumes at the same time to create a custom scent that people will be familiar with, but unable to pinpoint. I think this might be the method for me â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I can wear my comforting everyday perfume (Viktor & Rolfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flowerbomb), but with a customised twist. Blend perfumes from the same family for a heaven-sent scent. Fragrances typically fall into categories including ZRRG\ Ă RUDO RULHQWDO IUHVK and citrus, so keep it in the family for a fail-safe combo. Test out your chosen duo RQ SDSHU Ă&#x20AC;UVW WR VHH LI LW hits the right note, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ZDLW IRU WKH Ă&#x20AC;UVW VSUD\ WR GU\ before spritzing the second one â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they need to mingle together for the full effect. Jo Malone scents are ideal for layering, giving you the
Atelier Cologne Emeraude Agar, from ÂŁ90
If money is no object, then boutique fragrance services can make a completely personalised fragrance for you. For example, The Experimental Perfume Club holds one-to-one sessions where you can create your own for ÂŁ180. But thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s another way to go bespoke. Scents such as Escentric Moleculesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Molecule 01, and Glossierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s You, can deliver different notes of fragrance depending on whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wearing them. Elements in the fragrances blend with the wearerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural pheromones to create a unique scent â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and what could be more intoxicating than that? Nobody in the world will smell quite like you when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re wearing it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing more exclusive and personal than \RXU ZHGGLQJ GD\ Îź VD\V an Escentric Molecules
Elizabeth and James Nirvana Black, ÂŁ69
spokesperson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve FKRVHQ WKH ULJKW Ă RUDO displays, selected the menu WR UHĂ HFW \RXU WDVWH DQG your dress is the ultimate statement â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an extension of your personality. With this in mind, it makes perfect sense to wear a fragrance that showcases you and your personality in the same way. A scent that LV \RXUV DQG \RXUV DORQH Îź
Escentric Molecules Molecule 01, from ÂŁ46
Glossier You, ÂŁ45
youandyourwedding.co.uk 193
YourDream Wedding...
16th Century Grade 1 Listed Four Red Star Hotel • 25 Acres • 51 Bedrooms • Exclusive Use Available Up To 260 Guests • Spa • Wedding Packages Available • Three Rosette Restaurant • Private Bar • 1 Hour From London
Rushton Hall Hotel and Spa, Rushton, Northamptonshire NN14 1RR 01536 713001 • weddings@rushtonhall.com
Expert advice
C EAN UP
YO U R AC T
Our round-up of the best cleansers will suit every budget
SAVE
SPEND
SPREE
WORDS BY MELANIE MACLEOD
W
e’ve alrea waved goodbye to microbeads in skincare products – now it’s likely that facial wipes are also on their way out, after the government announced plans to ban non-biodegradable wipes. To be honest, we’re rather pleased – not only will Mother Earth benefit from this law, so will your skin. While facial wipes are undeniably handy for festivals and trips abroad when your hand-luggage liquids are limited, as your wedding day nears, it’s essential to use a proper cleanser that will be more efective than a wipe. The best cleansers not only remove make-up, they also nourish, exfoliate and hydrate your skin. “Cleansing the skin is essential for a healthy complexion,” says Noella Gabriel, co-founder of Elemis. “Make-up and environmental aggressors congest pores, and face cleanser works to remove these pollutants, as well as dead skin cells. Cleanse every day, morning and night, even if you haven’t worn make-up. Water should be just warm – if too hot, it will aggravate pores, while water that’s too cold won’t remove product as efectively.”
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser, £7.99
Soap & Glory 3-in-1 Daily Vitamin C Facial Wash, £8
No7 Radiant Results Revitalising Foaming Cleanser, £9.50
Elemis Superfood Facial Wash, £25
Urban Veda Daily Soothing Facial Wash, £13.99
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Cleansing Gel, £21, qvcuk.com
Nyasa Pure Glow Nourishing Cleansing Balm, £50
Espa Optimal Skin ProCleanser, £32
Frances Prescott Tri-Balm, £46
youandyourwedding.co.uk 195
The NEW HAIR RULES
Lavish some extra attention on your locks for big-day beautiful hair
Rusk Styling Collection Thermal Serum, £6.99
I
n the lead-up to your wedding you’ll hear and read lots of advice about embracing a new skincare regime, but chances are, your haircare routine will remain unchanged. We treat our skin to serums, toners and moisturisers, and that’s before we get onto masks and cleansers. But for lots of us, our hair is lucky if it gets a quick spritz with a heat protection spray before we blast it with our aeons-old hairdryer. With a wedding on the horizon, it’s time to up your haircare game – read on for expert tips on how to supercharge your hair regime, turning your locks from lacklustre to lust-worthy in time for w-day.
Pureology Shine Bright Taming Serum, £23.50
Use a serum “Serums nourish dry strands, tame frizz, provide heat protection and add shine,” says Rose Ovensehi, founder of haircare brand Flora & Curl. “Massage the scalp daily using a few drops of serum, which is said to promote hair growth. Our African Citrus Bloom Superfruit Hair Oil, £25, is made with a blend of botanically rich oils that
add shine and radiance to hair, while creating a nongreasy, protective layer.” Over the past few years, serums have become more powerful and popular, packed with ingredients designed to ÀJKW IUL]] :H·UH ELJ IDQV RI Pureology’s Shine Bright Taming Serum, £23.50 – it seals cuticles, which increases shine without weighing down the hair.
Gorgeous locks Get to the root Healthy hair begins at your scalp, so using products that are designed for this area is a great way to tend to your tresses. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair and healthier hair JURZWK Îź FRQĂ&#x20AC;UPV .DWH 3URWRSDSDV founder of Isla Apothecary. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The scalp is the bedrock for the hair follicle, and if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not in good condition the chances of you experiencing problems with hair growth and health increase VLJQLĂ&#x20AC;FDQWO\ Îź DGGV $QDEHO
Kingsley, trichologist at Philip Kingsley. Keep your scalp in top condition with the Philip Kingsley Scalp Toner, ÂŁ19.50. It stimulates the blood supply to encourage a healthy scalp and growth. The mildly astringent formula absorbs excess oil and protects Philip Kingsley against bacterial Scalp Toner, ÂŁ21 overgrowth, too.
Try multi-masking
KĂŠrastase Resistance range, from ÂŁ19.50
WORDS BY MELANIE MACLEOD. PHOTOGRAPH BY TRUNK ARCHIVE
Upgrade your product Just over 32 of brides upgrade their skincare regime in the un-up to their wedding, according to our 21 t Century Bride survey, and we recommend you do the same for your haircare. High-street brands of shampoos and conditioners have served us well up to now, but with your wedding around the corner, it may well be time to call in the big guns, and arm yourself with the products promising restorative properties, and designed to get your hair into the best shape of its life. Invest in KĂŠrastaseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Resistance range, from ÂŁ19.50. With a hair mask, serum, shampoo and conditioner in the range, it has been especially formulated to reinforce the structure and surface of WKH KDLU Ă&#x20AC;EUH WR KHOS NHHS HODVWLFLW\ DQG strength â&#x20AC;&#x201C; imperative if you want your hair to grow long and strong.
This is a trick weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re borrowing from the skincare world. An upgrade on the classic weekly hair mask, multi-masking is an absolute game changer. The process involves using different products to cater to the needs of different sections of your hair. A rich, nourishing mask applied to your roots IGK Prenup can leave hair weighed Instant down and greasy, but Spray Hair Mask, ÂŁ27 will work wonders on the ends of your hair. Instead, apply a clarifying mask Maria Nila to the top Head & Hair of your hair, Heal Masque, and soothe ÂŁ26.99 your split ends in a heavier, luxe mask.
Use protection
Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil, ÂŁ22.50
UV rays wreak havoc on your hair as much as your skin. Pick a product that acts as an armour to protect your tresses. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re fans of Avedaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sun Care Protective Hair Veil, ÂŁ22.50, and Windle & Moodieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Invisible Day & Night Cream, ÂŁ22. Be sure to add extra product to the ends of your hair, Windle & Moodie Invisible Day & Night Cream, ÂŁ22
Time-saving treats If adding in these extra haircare steps seems impossible when you have a wedmin to-do list as long as your arm, hair treats that shorten your routine and save time will be very welcome. Tweakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d Cleansing Hair Treatment, ÂŁ15, available from TYFXN FRP DFWV DV D Ă&#x20AC;YH LQ RQH product: shampoo, conditioner, detangler, shine enhancer and intensive hair treatment. It cleanses away product build-up, Redken All Soft meaning youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be left with Mega Sheet healthier, softer and shiny hair. Hair Mask, ÂŁ10 Redkenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s All Soft Mega Sheet Hair Mask, ÂŁ10, is another treat for time-poor brides-to-be. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designed to soften the hair, lock in moisture and leave hair more manageable. Simply apply after your shampoo, leave in for 10 minutes while you get on with wedmin, and wash out for luxuriously conditioned locks.
Invest in new styling tools We know planning a wedding can be expensive, so splashing out on a new hairdryer is likely the last thing on your mind, but the way you dry your hair can really alter how it grows. The T3 Cura dryer, from ÂŁ155, has a built-in ion generator that emits negative ions, helping to smooth the hair cuticle for soft, frizz-free results. The tool ensures healthier heat styling for your hair, reducing breakage and improving the appearance of your locks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; plus it looks beautiful on your dressing table.
especially if it is below shoulder length. Your ends are more prone to damage because theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been weathered by previous summers. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth protecting your hair before swimming or gyming, too. We recommend IGKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s water resistant hair shield, Blocked, ÂŁ25. With a blend of water-resistant natural waxes, it seals the cuticle, protects hair from wind, water, sweat and UV, and prevents fading. After sun exposure, use Redkenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Colour Extend Sun After-Sun Shampoo, ÂŁ13.25, and Mask, ÂŁ21.25 for further protection.
youandyourwedding.co.uk 197
T3 Cura dryer, from ÂŁ155
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New hair Alan Hannah at White Gallery
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WORDS BY MELANIE MACLEOD, WHITE GALLERY PHOTOGRAPHS BY NATASHA HURLEY
Undone ELEGANCE
E
ver since Meghan Markle stepped out of her wedding car, we haven’t stopped thinking about her casual w-day hair. This year is all about the messy updo, and we’re certain the look will reign well into 2019. As we saw, it’s not just the domain of boho brides – the laid-back style works perfectly with princess-style dresses, too. Embrace loose tendrils, XQGRQH EUDLGV DQG Á\DZD\ strands for an effortlessly gorgeous look, and add glittering accessories to amp up the glamour. And the best thing about a messy updo? If it loosens during the day, it will still look incredible when the clock strikes midnight.
Amanda Wakeley
Say goodbye to perfectly preened wedding hair – all the hottest styles this season are a rather more relaxed affair
Savin at White Gallery Maggie Sottero
Alan Hannah at White Gallery
Alan Hannah at White Gallery
Francis Bridal Sottero and Midgley
Sincerity Ella Rosa
youandyourwedding.co.uk 199
ConďŹ dence
g n i Feel Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let planning your wedding stop you from having a healthy lifestyle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how to stay well in the run-up to the day
I
t can be tricky enough to stay in a healthy routine at the best of times â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and if you add planning a wedding to the mix, it can start to feel almost impossible. After all, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not easy to keep your stress levels down when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re dealing with guest-list dramas, or to carry on with WKDW Ă&#x20AC;WQHVV FODVV WKDW PDNHV \RX IHHO JUHDW when every evening is taken up with venue research. And thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s before we take into account the extra alcohol you may be consuming â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a super-social time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or any pressure creeping in around losing weight for the big day. But nobody wants to turn up to their wedding feeling tired, hungry and PLVHUDEOH 7KDW¡V ZK\ ZH¡YH LGHQWLĂ&#x20AC;HG WKH main areas of planning that can sabotage your healthy regime, and asked leading experts how you can overcome them. Sadly, we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do the table plan for you, or get rid of that annoying guest who keeps demanding a plus-one â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but we can help you feel your KHDOWK\ FRQĂ&#x20AC;GHQW EULGDO EHVW ZKDWHYHU the run-up to your wedding throws at you!
STRESS
Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning a large-scale celebration or an intimate party, planning a wedding can be stressful. And stress can have a serious effect on your wellbeing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your hormones playing havoc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; too PXFK DGUHQDOLQ ZKLFK LV DERXW Ă&#x20AC;JKW RU Ă LJKW Îź H[SODLQV GRFWRU DQG SHUVRQDO WUDLQHU Dr Hazel Wallace, author of The Food Medic for Life: Easy recipes to help you live well every day (Yellow Kite, ÂŁ20). â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chronic stress can lead to high levels of cortisol. You might overeat
200 youandyourwedding.co.uk
D O ? O G
or stop eating â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and it can even make you get more cold sores!â&#x20AC;? It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to be possible to eradicate all sources of stress, so you need to take time to really look after yourself. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Have practices in your routine that make you feel safe and relaxed, whether thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something like long walks or meditation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; take time out to be calm,â&#x20AC;? says Dr Wallace. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Prioritise feeding yourself well as a form of self-care. Have regular mealtimes, as well as balanced snacks with good quality carbohydrates to keep your energy levels up.â&#x20AC;?
says Hollie. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I lost track of the times I was asked which diet I was going to use in the run-up to my wedding, despite the fact Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m forever banging the drum for body acceptance. If someone begins to talk to you about this, say you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to engage in that type of conversation.â&#x20AC;?
metabolism will start to compensate. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be in a vicious cycle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you stop losing weight, so you cut out more calories, EXTREME DIETING but your body catches up.â&#x20AC;? One particularly dangerous result We know it can be hard if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re feeling of the pressure of wedding under pressure to be a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thinner does weight-loss is crash-dieting. certain size or weight, This often happens when but please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t punish not mean better. a bride-to be has ordered \RXUVHOI WR Ă&#x20AC;W LQWR D GUHVV You shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t her dress in a size or more â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eat well and exercise,â&#x20AC;? smaller than she actually is adds Dr Wallace. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But need to change ² VKH WXUQV XS IRU KHU Ă&#x20AC;WWLQJ do that regardless of the your dress size and discovers that her wedding â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and remember, JRUJHRXV JRZQ GRHVQ¡W Ă&#x20AC;W you can be healthy and to feel more SLEEP DEPRIVATION Cue a frantic attempt to beautiful while not being 'LIĂ&#x20AC;FXOW\ IDOOLQJ RU VWD\LQJ DVOHHS LV D NH\ slim into it within a few valuableâ&#x20AC;? two dress sizes smaller.â&#x20AC;? symptom of stress, and lack of sleep has weeks, using an extreme DRINKING TOO been linked to all sorts of conditions, such diet and exercise regime. MUCH ALCOHOL as a weakened immune system and highâ&#x20AC;&#x153;In the short term, people see results In addition to the day itself, there can blood pressure. There are lots of sleepwhen theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re cutting lots of calories, but often be a lot of socialising around your inducing ideas out there, from pillow it gives you the wrong mindset when it wedding. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebration drinks with sprays to eye masks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but, counterintuitive comes to your relationship with your body friends, the stag and hen dos, rehearsal as it may seem, getting more active and food,â&#x20AC;? says Dr Wallace. dinner, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;just-becauseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; drinks may actually be the answer. with your bridesmaidsâ&#x20AC;Ś â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yoga and Pilates are It can all add up, and the both perfect for someone effects of too much alcohol struggling to sleep, as theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Change your attitude, not your body, says on health, even in the short gentle and restorative enough Michelle Elman â&#x20AC;&#x201C; here are her four top tips term, are well documented not to overstress the body,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from dehydrating your skin says Hollie Grant, an awardand leaving you prone to winning trainer whose Pilates donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wear them Ban weightMake sure you spots, to increasing feelings PT studio has a residency at at your wedding. loss conversations feel comfortable of anxiety. Dr Wallace The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; do during your in your wedding suggests taking a balanced Park. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Try to balance life what empowers dress ďŹ ttings. dress. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re attitude. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Know your limits out with low-intensity, you the most. wearing something and pace yourself,â&#x20AC;? she says. mindful classes to prevent that makes you Bear in mind â&#x20AC;&#x153;Swap every second alcoholic burnout. Just donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exercise Remember feel uncomfortable, that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t drink for a glass of water or too close to bedtime, as this that your partner it will make need to stick to choose alcohol-free cocktails.â&#x20AC;? can make it harder to drift loves you for you. you more selfconvention. For off due to raised temperature Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in love with conscious and example, if you NO TIME and energy levels.â&#x20AC;? you whatever size detract from normally hate
WORDS BY HANNAH DAVIES. PHOTOGRAPH BY MARTIN RUSCH AT TRUNK ARCHIVE
BE BODY CONFIDENT
DRESS PRESSURE
having fun.
Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just about your physical wellbeing. A wedding stress point that can really upset your emotional health is feeling under pressure to lose weight. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brides worry about not looking the best version of themselves in their photos,â&#x20AC;? says 0LFKHOOH (OPDQ ERG\ FRQĂ&#x20AC;GHQFH FRDFK and author of Am I Ugly? (Anima, ÂŁ9.57). â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we all need to realise that thinner does not mean better, more beautiful or more loveable. You shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to change dress sizes to feel more valuable.â&#x20AC;? Sometimes, brides-to-be can start to feel under pressure to lose weight because their friends and family assume thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to do. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Try to ignore diet chat,â&#x20AC;?
wearing heels,
you are now.
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FOR EXERCISE
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youandyourwedding.co.uk 201
GREAT Escapes Inspiration and advice for your perfect big day overseas
DESTINATION
WEDDING
Special
BALI Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay fourseasons.com/ jimbaranbay
S
aying your vows in another country is an exciting adventure, but organising from afar can be a challenge. In this destination wedding special, we have everything you need to know about planning a celebration overseas, from location inspiration to expert travel tips. Plus, couples share their own experiences and advice to get you all set for your big day abroadâ&#x20AC;Ś
Planning abroad
VOWS
WITH A VIEW Stunning surroundings for your dream destination nuptials
A
breathtaking backdrop is one of the best bits about getting married abroad. Whether your dream wedding involves a chilled-out beachside ceremony, or you have your heart set on a decadent castle setting, you’re going to want to say “I do” somewhere scenic. We’ve rounded up some of the most impressive wedding venues from all over the world, so all you have to do is take your pick!
CITYstyle
USA 620 Loft & Garden, New York rainbowroom.com
JAPAN The Prince Park Tower Tokyo princehotels.com
USA
THAILAND
LondonHouse Chicago londonhousechicago.com
Banyan Tree Bangkok banyantree.com
MOUNTAIN landscape
SWITZERLAND Giardino Mountain giardino-mountain.ch
AUSTRALIA Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley oneandonlyresorts.com
CANADA
OMAN
Fairmont Banff Springs fairmont.com
Alila Jabal Akhdar alilahotels.com
AUSTRIA Das Central & Ice Q, Sölden central-soelden.com
THE CARIBBEAN Sandals resorts sandals.co.uk
SEYCHELLES Avani Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa metropole.com
USA Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort, Florida jwmarco.com
WORDS BY RACHEL AVERY
BEACHSIDE beauty THAILAND Anantara Layan Phuket Resort anantara.com
205
Planning abroad KENYA
UAE
Mahali Mzuri, Maasai Mara maasaimara.com
Qasr al Sarab, Abu Dhabi anantara.com
Total WILDERNESS MOROCCO Fairmont Royal Palm, Marrakech fairmont.com
USA Taylor River Lodge, Colorado elevenexperience.com
ST LUCIA
ITALY
Ladera Resort ladera.com
Santa Caterina, hitched.co.uk/wedding -venues/hotel-santa-caterina
SEA views GREECE Blue Palace Crete bluepalace.gr
THAILAND Trisara, Phuket trisara.com
206
USA Oheka Castle, New York oheka.com
Impressive INTERIORS If al fresco isn’t your thing, opt for a resort with amazing indoor spaces
InterContinental Paris Le Grand, France
SOUTH AFRICA Zorgvliet Wine Estate, Stellenbosch zorgvliet.com
IRELAND Adare Manor, Co Limerick adaremanor.com
COUNTRYcharm
Hayloft on the Arch, New York, USA
Royal Mansour, Marrakech, Morocco
FRANCE Château de Mercuès, Lot chateaudemercues.com
The Westin Palace, Madrid, Spain
Weddings in Italy
YOUR DREAM ITALIAN VENUE As chosen by the experts at
The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No.1 wedding planning website SEARCHING FOR THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE? WITH MORE THAN 3,000 OPTIONS IN ITALY AND THE UK TO CHOOSE FROM, HITCHED CAN HELPâ&#x20AC;&#x2030;â&#x20AC;&#x2030;
F
rom the sun-drenched vineyards of Puglia to the glittering canals of Venice, Italy is one of the most romantic locations in the world for a destination wedding. With beautiful weather, amazing food and wines, and gorgeous palaces and castles, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to see why Italy is so popular with British couples. The simple formalities of getting married there also mean that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got plenty of time to focus on Ă&#x20AC;QGLQJ WKH SHUIHFW VSRW WR WLH WKH NQRW Every region of Italy has its own beauty, so whatever your wedding theme, budget or style, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a wonderful venue just waiting for you to say â&#x20AC;&#x153;I doâ&#x20AC;?. Whether LW¡V DQ LQWLPDWH YLOOD RQ WKH $PDOĂ&#x20AC; &RDVW RU D JUDQG SDODFH LQ 5RPH \RX¡OO Ă&#x20AC;QG \RXU dream Italian venue from the extensive FROOHFWLRQ DW KLWFKHG FR XN 7R JHW \RX started, here are seven of our favouritesâ&#x20AC;Ś
Sorrento
Villa Antiche Mura
Lake Como
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni Bellagio
Set on the stunning shores of Lake Como, this 19th-century hotel has 95 rooms, a spa and superb gourmet dining â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a wonderful venue for a multiday celebration with loved ones. hitched.co.uk/serbellonibellagio
208 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Umbria
Castello di Petrata This historic 14th-century castle overlooking the city of Assisi can host up to 250 guests. The airy rooms, beautiful stonework and ivy-covered exterior are ideal for a rustic wedding. Expect a feast including antipasti, local meats and traditional desserts. hitched.co.uk/castellodipetrata
Perched on a cliftop overlooking the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, the enchanting Villa Antiche Mura is one of the most sought-after venues in Sorrento. Its terrace is the perfect spot to tie the knot before dining and dancing next to an unforgettable view. hitched.co.uk/villaantichemura
Puglia
Masseria Torre Coccaro
Boasting one of the best beach clubs in the Mediterranean, you can host your nuptials right on the sand or in the grounds of this chic country house hotel. There’s no place better to share fresh seafood and fine wines with your guests. hitched.co.uk/torrecoccaro
Florence
Villa Tolomei
Set against lush Tuscan hills near Florence, this Renaissance villa has been transformed into a five-star luxury hotel with every amenity your guests could want. From a swimming pool with panoramic views over Florence to its own art gallery, Villa Tolomei is a stunningly impressive setting for a wedding. hitched.co.uk/villatolomei
Florence
Villa Cora
Is there any better wedding photo spot than looking out over the world-famous Boboli Gardens? With Renaissance frescos and a whole floor influenced by Moorish art, the elegant Villa Cora has 45 rooms and a private pool, making it a magnificent venue for style-loving couples. hitched.co.uk/villacora
Venice
Ca’ Sagredo Hotel
Follow George and Amal Clooney with a wedding in Venice. On the banks of the iconic Grand Canal, this is a breathtaking spot for your big day. A ballroom and rooftop terrace are just two of the locations where you can say “I do”, and the hotel’s team will take care of every detail. hitched.co.uk/casagredohotel
WHY USE HITCHED.CO.UK? It’s the most comprehensive venue marketplace, with more than 3,000 locations to choose from in Italy and the UK Search by county and venue type, and create a personalised shortlist of your favourite locations Email each venue directly to ask questions, call to arrange a viewing, or request a brochure
SEARCH FOR YOUR PERFECT VENUE NOW AT
HITCHED.CO.UK youandyourwedding.co.uk 209
The
location I
dyllic scenery, delicious cuisine and more reliable sunshine than in the UK are just three reasons to get married overseas. Whether the two of you have decided to elope, or you want to celebrate with your nearest and dearest, you need to decide on a location. Let us take you on a tour of 10 of our favourite destination wedding packages – there’s one for every budget!
Portugal
Best known for its incredible food offerings, stunning coastline and amazing historic surroundings, holiday favourite Portugal is DOVR DURXQG D WKUHH KRXU ÁLJKW IURP PRVW places in the UK – so it’s an easy option that’s also close to home.
Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort The Algarve, on Portugal’s south coast, probably needs no introduction. Hold your exclusive outdoor ceremony by the sea at Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort, with all the privacy you need. The spectacular views of the golden cliffs that overlook the Atlantic Ocean will take your breath away. From approximately £30,600 for a wedding package based on 100 guests attending, tivolihotels.com
PHOTOGRAPH BY KR MORENO, STYLING BY ALGARVEWEDDINGPLANNERS COM
Spoilt for choice? Here’s our guide to finding the perfect destination for a day in the sun
Desto days
Italy
Thailand ,I \RX HQYLVLRQ WURSLFDO Ă RZHUV GHOLFLRXV food, gracious hosts and exotic surroundings, Thailand is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for your w-day.
Rockyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boutique Resort, Koh Samui Here, the dedicated planner can organise a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;westernâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Thaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; beach ceremony with VWXQQLQJ Ă RUDO GHFRUDWLRQV DQG D WUDGLWLRQDO ORQJ GUXP SDUDGH ZLWK Ă RZHU JLUOV Regardless of what you go for, a wedding in Thailand will be an unforgettable experience. From ÂŁ3,056, based on bride and groom only (extra cost of ÂŁ73 per guest for a reception), kuoni.co.uk
Greece
Striking white architecture and glistening azure seas make Greece a go-to destination for dreamy wedding celebrations. Just a few hours from the UK, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be transported to a world of idyllic beauty â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also the allure of a traditional Greek feast!
TUI Sensatori Resort Atlantica Rhodes This brand-new venue on the island of Rhodes will begin to host weddings in summer 2019, SURPLVLQJ Ă&#x20AC;YH VWDU OX[XU\ LQ D VWXQQLQJ beach location. In addition to admiring the happy couple, guests will be able to gaze over the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea â&#x20AC;&#x201C; plus, with only one wedding per day, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel like utter royalty. From ÂŁ1,946, includes venue rate, planning and administration, registrar fees, wedding ceremony, and more, tui.co.uk
From historical palaces in Venice to wine estates in the Tuscan hills, Italy provides the perfect dolce vita backdrop for al fresco vows.
Villa Catignano, Siena :H FDQ VHH ZK\ FRXSOHV IDOO LQ ORYH DW Ă&#x20AC;UVW sight with this beautiful 17th-century venue in Tuscany. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brimming with charm and is surrounded by the tranquil Giardino allâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Italiana garden with a stunning view of WKH DUHD ² DQG VHUYHV Ă&#x20AC;QH IRRG DQG ZLQH RI course! From ÂŁ22,500, package includes exclusivity of Villa Catignano for three nights, accommodation for up to 90 guests, ceremony, and more, villacatignano.it, lussoevents.com
Spain
With up to 320 dry days a year, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s little surprise that the home of paella and sangria is high up the list of the most sought-after destinations for overseas weddings. Book a big day here for lovely beaches, hidden coves, majestic sunsets, and a lot of charm.
Hostal La Torre, Ibiza Thought the White Isle was strictly a party destination? The boutique and beautiful Hostal La Torre will change your mind â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and with just 17 rooms, it has a lovely home-from-home feel. The uninterrupted Mediterranean views across to the little island of Illa Conillera make for the perfect ceremony backdrop. Your sunset reception will be accompanied by, what else? Chillout sounds from one of La Torreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resident DJs. A gorgeous way to end your day. From ÂŁ25,485, includes a three-night package for all 17 rooms (up to 40 guests in total) for a minimum of three nights, mamboweddings.com
The Maldives
Say hello to paradise! Luxe resorts, postcardperfect beaches and the highest standard of hospitality make for a winning combination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Maldives really does have it all.
Baros Surrounded by vibrant coral reef and home to a loop of amazing overwater villas, the tiny private island of Baros is nothing short of heavenly, and is a very popular ceremony spot. For a very special memory of your day, drones are used to take stunning photographs. From ÂŁ3,225 per person, includes seven nights on a B&B basis in a Deluxe Villa, including the Sandbank Renewal of Vows Package, international flights and transfers, turquoiseholidays.co.uk/themaldives/ baros-maldives
Sri Lanka
An alluring south Asian landscape of wonderful beaches and luscious rainforests, this island is also home to a wealth of culture and lots of incredible wildlife. The perfect place to combine a ceremony and honeymoon.
Anantara Kalutara Resort Forget a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;wedding dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at this resort on the west coast, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all about a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;wedding weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;! The amazing team can organise a range of pre- and post-ceremony activities, including excursions within an easy drive IURP WKH UHVRUW WKLQN WUDGLWLRQDO Ă&#x20AC;VKLQJ whale-watching trips and ancient Buddhist temples). Back at base, you can enjoy a coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spa day or take home some Sri Lankan cooking skills. From approximately ÂŁ1,800 for a bespoke wedding ceremony, exclusive of accommodation prices, kalutara.anantara.com youandyourwedding.co.uk 211
Desto days
The Caribbean
If a laid-back wedding involving a rum punch or two is your idea of heaven, look no further than the Caribbean. From the fun, laid-back luxe of Saint Lucia to the chilled-out feel of Antigua, there’s an island for everyone.
Chile
Sandals Resorts With 24 resorts across the Caribbean, you’ll be spoilt for choice with Sandals. Its unique ‘Aisle to Isle’ concept allows you to mix and match different elements to create your perfect day. Sandals’ South Coast in Jamaica or Grande St. Lucian in Saint Lucia are our favourites, with their incredible over-water chapels (Jamaica’s Montego Bay will also have its own later this year). From £1,999 per person, based on seven nights at Sandals South Coast in a Beachfront Deluxe Room. The Sandals ‘Aisle to Isle’ programme includes a free wedding option for guests who stay at any Sandals resorts for more than three nights, sandals.co.uk
This South American nation is one of the largest wine producers in the world, so not only will you have incredible vintages for your wedding breakfast, but these stunning wineries make idyllic ceremony backdrops. A unique and memorable destination.
Casas del Bosque Winery
Croatia
The sun-soaked islands off the coast of Croatia are growing in popularity for holidays, honeymoons and weddings. With more than 1,200 stunning locations and numerous Unesco landmarks, you have so much choice in the Adriatic.
Martinis Marchi Heritage Hotel Overlooking a quiet marina bay on the west side of the island of Šolta (take the ferry from Split), this historic castle also includes seven luxurious apartments. You can book the entire place exclusively for two days to really make the most of your regal venue! For something different, try the hotel’s ‘serendipity tour’ – a surprise excursion. From approx. £15,000, based on 60 guests. Venue must be booked for two nights for exclusive use (accommodation for 20 people, not included in price), martinis-marchi.com, dreamtime.hr 212 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Opt for a romantic evening ceremony to capture that ‘golden hour’ of sunlight at this vineyard, an hour outside Santiago, and enjoy locally sourced food served at the on-site Tanino restaurant. Each course will, of course, be paired with perfect wines. From approx. £12,193, based on 40 people, does not include accommodation, casasdelbosque.cl/en, destinationwedding.com.br/en
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your wedding and honeymoon! Get married at this sun-soaked haven and then enjoy a luxury honeymoon break
Hacienda Beach at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya
You & Your Wedding competition Sunset at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya
YOUR PRIZE A seven-night stay at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya, Mexico, in a Deluxe Gold Room The new Ultimate Wedding Package The One Love Honeymoon Package Two economy return ÁLJKWV ZLWK 7KRPDV Cook Airlines from ** the UK to Cancún
D
o you dream of a destination wedding in paradise? We’re giving one lucky couple the chance to win their wedding at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya in Mexico. 7KLV IDQWDVWLF KROLGD\ VWDUWV ZLWK D ÁLJKW to Cancún, followed by check-in at this LQFUHGLEOH ÀYH VWDU UHVRUW <RXU VHYHQ QLJKW VWD\ ZLOO EH DOO LQFOXVLYH ² DQG HYHQ ÀQH GLQLQJ PHDOV DQG DOFRKRO DUH LQFOXGHG <RX·OO experience the Ultimate Wedding Package, which includes pre-celebration cocktails with dinner, a wedding cocktail reception and dinner, a champagne toast, use of the amazing Rock Star Suite terrace to host the pre-celebration dinner or the wedding reception*, a room upgrade for the bridal couple, hair and make-up for one person, a manicure for one person, a complimentary couple’s massage and 40 photographs. Once the celebrations are over, you’ll get to discover the luxury of the One Love +RQH\PRRQ 3DFNDJH <RX·OO EH WUHDWHG WR D mini cake, sparkling house wine, a romantic honeymoon dinner, in-room breakfast and a pampering hydro spa tub experience. As well as all these added extras, you’ll be free to enjoy the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya at your leisure. Take a refreshing dip in one of the many pools, spend a lazy afternoon relaxing on a Bali bed, or head to the adults-only part of the hotel for a bit of zen time – the choice is yours. Come evening, you won’t be short of a place to drink and dine, as the resort is home to nine restaurants and four bars! Sample delicious cuisine from all over the world and enjoy premium drinks all night long. Enter our competition today for your chance to win this fantastic prize package.
HOW TO ENTER
A reception on the beach
For the chance to win this amazing prize, worth £7,500, simply answer the following question correctly: Which of these cocktails is associated with Mexico? A Manhattan B Margarita C Mai Tai Visit youandyourwedding.co.uk/ competitions to enter. Terms and conditions apply, see below for details. Good luck!
Take an evening jacuzzi for two
The award-winning Thomas Cook Airlines operates Airbus A330 flights to Cancún from Manchester, London Gatwick and Glasgow
TERMS AND CONDITIONS *For groups of 25–50 people. **Travel valid to/from Manchester, London Gatwick and Glasgow. The Promoter is Immediate Media Company London Limited. The competition closes at 11.59pm on 16 November 2018. Prize valid until 11 November 2019. Book by 7 January 2019 for travel between 1 December 2018 and 11 November 2019. Dates of stay are subject to availability. This prize is not valid for periods over UK Bank and School holidays. The prize excludes travel between the winner’s home and the airport, transfers, travel insurance, personal expenditure, gratuities or incidental costs, other than where mentioned. It is the responsibility of the prize winner to ensure they have a valid passport and travel insurance and obtain any necessary vaccinations and visas for their trip. Prize cannot be exchanged for cash or transferred. The competition is not open to employees and their immediate families of the Promoter or any other company involved in this prize promotion. Entrants must be 18 or above. Prize winners must be 18 or above. One entry per household. One winning entry will be chosen at random from all eligible entries. The winner will be notified by the Promoter via email within 28 days of the competition closing and details of how to claim the prize will be provided. If the winner cannot be contacted, fails to respond within one month of such notification being sent, or declines the prize, the Promoter reserves the right to ofer the prize to a runner up, or to re-ofer the prize in any future promotion. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of the same or greater value. The Promoter does not accept any responsibility for lost, delayed or fraudulent entries. The Promoter will use entrants’ personal details in accordance with the Immediate Privacy Policy (immediatemedia.co.uk/privacy-policy). The Promoter excludes liability to the full extent permitted by law for any loss, damage or injury occurring to the participant arising from his or her entry into the promotion or occurring to the winner(s) arising from his or her acceptance of a prize. The promotion is subject to the laws of England.
Your
DESTINATION DILEMMAS
solved!
If you dream of flying off for your wedding, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know where to start, our experts have all the advice you need for a big day overseas
How should we choose a location? ,I \RX GRQ·W KDYH D SDUWLFXODU DIÃ&#x20AC;OLDWLRQ WR D VSHFLÃ&#x20AC;F FRXQWU\ RU GHVWLQDWLRQ FKRRVLQJ VRPHZKHUH WR VD\ ´, GRμ FDQ EH WULFN\ 7KLQN DERXW ZKDW VXUURXQGLQJV you would prefer to have â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as the beach, the city, snowcapped mountains â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as this will narrow down your options (see our feature on p210 for plenty RI ORFDWLRQ LQVSLUDWLRQ 7KHQ WKLQN about how long it will take you and your guests to get there, how easy it is to plan a wedding in that country, and, of course, how much it will all cost.
How will I transport my dress to my destination?
Provided that your dress isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a huge princess-style number with a 25-foot train, you should be able to pack it relatively easily â&#x20AC;&#x201C; of course, you should take the upmost care to prevent your gown getting damaged while in transit. 0DUWLQH +DUULV RI EULGDO EUDQG (VVHQVH of Australia, suggests purchasing a durable garment bag to pack in your suitcase or carry on the plane. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If your wedding dress is heavily beaded, it will need to be wrapped up in tissue paper before being put in the garment bag, WR SUHYHQW DQ\ VQDJJLQJ μ VKH DGYLVHV
216 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Overseas weddings Who should we invite?
Just like a celebration at home, the choice is completely yours. Invite your closest friends and family â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the ones that you really want to be by your side for this special moment. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to take into consideration that there may be a few people that simply canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make LW GXH WR Ă&#x20AC;QDQFLDO RU SUDFWLFDO IDFWRUV Send your save-the-dates out a year before the big day, so your guests can JHW WLPH RII ZRUN DQG EHQHĂ&#x20AC;W IURP booking travel when prices are lower.
Should I hire a wedding planner?
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Planning a wedding abroad is logistically PRUH GLIĂ&#x20AC;FXOW Îź DFFRUGLQJ WR ZHGGLQJ planner Elisabetta White. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You can struggle with language barriers, time difference and, sometimes, a lack of FRPPXQLFDWLRQ Îź +RZHYHU GHVWLQDWLRQ wedding planners are fully equipped with the resources and knowledge to handle these potential problems. If you do decide to take on the planning yourself, enlisting your friends and family to assist with any tricky or time-consuming organisation can be a huge help.
WORDS BY RACHEL AVERY. PHOTOGRAPH BY JULES BOWER
Should we honeymoon in the same place?
If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning to honeymoon straight after your destination wedding, give thought to how practical it will be to bring your dress and other personal items with you, or if one of your guests is able WR WDNH WKHP KRPH IRU \RX +DYLQJ \RXU honeymoon in the same place or nearby could remove that problem. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the key advantages of getting married abroad is the chance to twin your wedding and KRQH\PRRQ ORFDWLRQV ZLWK HDVH Îź VD\V Olivia Knight of Sandals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For example, those getting married in the Caribbean can have their wedding at one of our UHVRUWV DQG KRQH\PRRQ LQ DQRWKHU Îź
Will we have to pay for our friends and family to get there?
Most destination wedding guests do expect to pay for their travel and accommodation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; after all, it is an excuse for them to have a holiday! It is such a lovely gesture if you can afford to pay for your guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; accommodation and/or
Are there any particular styles of wedding dress that will keep me cool?
à LJKWV EXW LW¡V QRW XVXDOO\ H[SHFWHG +RZHYHU LI DOO RI \RXU JXHVWV DUH DUULYLQJ RQ WKH VDPH à LJKW LW PD\ EH ZRUWK considering hiring some sort of group transportation to get everyone from the airport to your resort or town together.
How will we source wedding suppliers?
If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re having a planner, then they will know the best local suppliers and can WDNH FDUH RI DOO RI WKLV IRU \RX +RZHYHU LI \RX¡UH QRW \RXU Ă&#x20AC;UVW SRUW RI FDOO VKRXOG be to talk to your venue, as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s likely that they work with regular suppliers and can give you the heads-up on who is reliable.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;
DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNERS HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE AND RESOUR TO DEAL WITH PROBLEMS If you do end up researching suppliers rather than receiving recommendations, just be sure to check out their reviews and social media feeds thoroughly to get an idea of their standards of service before you commit to employing them.
How will I keep my wedding make-up on in the heat? +RW ZHDWKHU SOXV OD\HUV RI PDNH XS can sometimes be a recipe for disaster â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but as Bobbi Brown make-up artist Zara Findlay explains, the key to a long-lasting look is all in the application. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A good skincare routine will support your skin WKURXJK WKH KHDW Îź VKH VD\V ´2LO IUHH or gel-based moisturisers are great for surviving hot weather, and a good primer is a must. In addition, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to use a waterproof mascara to protect against DQ\ WHDUV RU VZHDW Îź =DUD UHFRPPHQGV having a shine-busting powder to hand on the day itself for any touch-ups.
Finding the right dress for a wedding in a warmer climate is important, as Martine explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hot, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to want a dress thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s constructed to keep you cool, but one that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t compromise on VW\OH Îź VKH VD\V ´:H ZRXOG UHFRPPHQG sheer lace bodices, low strappy backs and EUHH]\ IDEULFV VXFK DV FKLIIRQ DQG WXOOH Îź
Will our marriage be legal?
It is possible to have a civil ceremony thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legally binding in a lot of countries, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important that you know what paperwork is required in advance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Getting a wedding planner to assist with this SURFHVV LV PXFK HDVLHU Îź DGYLVHV (OLVDEHWWD ´%XW LI \RX DUH JRLQJ LW DORQH Ă&#x20AC;UVW YLVLW the UK governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website (gov.uk/ marriage-abroad) and then get in touch with the local town hall in your destination to establish the requirements and GRFXPHQWV WKDW ZLOO EH QHHGHG Îź 7KH JRY XN VLWH JLYHV FRXQWU\ VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;F DGYLFH after you answer a couple of brief questions DERXW \RXU SODQV ,I \RX Ă&#x20AC;QG \RX DUH XQDEOH to tie the knot legally in your destination RI FKRLFH \RX FDQ PDUU\ RIĂ&#x20AC;FLDOO\ LQ WKH UK and have a symbolic ceremony abroad.
What sort of insurance are we going to need?
Of course, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to have to think about your big day going wrong â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but having wedding insurance in place simply means youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have everything covered in case you do encounter problems. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Check that the policy covers you [for weddings] DEURDG EHIRUH \RX EX\ Îź DGYLVHV 7RQ\ Forchione, insurance analyst with 0RQH\6DYLQJ([SHUW FRP ´<RX PD\ Ă&#x20AC;QG that overseas the insurance will usually cover the costs, but not help with, for H[DPSOH Ă&#x20AC;QGLQJ D QHZ FDWHUHU LI WKH\ FDQFHO Îź ,Q DGGLWLRQ WR LQVXUDQFH IRU \RXU wedding, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also need travel insurance like you would with any normal holiday, so you can fully relax and enjoy yourselves.
youandyourwedding.co.uk 217
Wedding Insurance from just ÂŁ17!
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Top tips
We did it
OUR WAY! Real-life couples who tied the knot overseas share their experiences
A
W <RX <RXU :HGGLQJ we know that so many people would love to have a destination celebration, but are unsure of where to start ² VR ZH DVNHG Ă&#x20AC;YH FRXSOHV ZKR¡YH been there already for their best memories and tips for those who dream of a wedding in the sunâ&#x20AC;Ś
Laura and Andy chose Hotel Villa Cimbrone on the beautiful Amalfi Coast in Italy as their â&#x20AC;&#x153;I doâ&#x20AC;? destination hotelvillacimbrone.com island,â&#x20AC;? says Sarah. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We had been to weddings where we hardly got any time with the bride and groom, so we loved spending a whole week with all of our favourite people!â&#x20AC;? What was the best thing about your day? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Walking into our reception venue and seeing everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happy faces. The actual setting was pretty spectacular, too â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a clifftop restaurant above the crashing waves, with the sun setting over the bay.â&#x20AC;?
Sarah and Karl had a week-long, sun-soaked Caribbean party at Champers in Barbados champersrestaurant.com Why did you opt for a destination wedding? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m from Barbados but live in the UK, so I always knew Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d get married back on the
What are the three pieces of advice youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d give to couples getting married abroad? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve arrived at your destination, just relax and enjoy every minute of it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; let any pre-wedding stress fade away.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Consider the weather â&#x20AC;&#x201C; some of our guests who wore dresses and suits with heavier fabrics struggled with the heat.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Have a wedding website and direct SHRSOH WR LW DV D Ă&#x20AC;UVW SRUW RI FDOO <RX GRQ¡W want people treating you like a personal travel agent because youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hosting a wedding abroad. All the information our guests needed went on the site.â&#x20AC;?
Why did you opt for a destination wedding? â&#x20AC;&#x153;There were a number of reasons we went to Italy, including the weather, the food, and the atmosphere,â&#x20AC;? says Laura. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We also got a lot more for our money out there.â&#x20AC;? What was the best thing about your day? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Having our family and closest friends with us there was magical. After the ceremony, we walked through the streets of Ravello â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it was so wonderful, as the locals were all coming up to us to say congratulations.â&#x20AC;? What are the three pieces of advice youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d give to couples getting married abroad? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Use a wedding planner in your country of choice who speaks the language and knows the area. Ours were so helpful.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Make sure you know all the legalities. We knew getting married in Italy would be legally recognised in the UK, so we wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to do another service back at home.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sweat the small stuff! If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Ă \LQJ RII WR D EHDXWLIXO ORFDWLRQ OHW WKH stunning surroundings do the talking â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for example, guests wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss huge centrepieces and elaborate decorations if WKH\¡UH ORRNLQJ RXW RYHU WKH $PDOĂ&#x20AC; &RDVW Îź youandyourwedding.co.uk 219
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Why did you opt for a destination wedding? â&#x20AC;&#x153;We got engaged in Santorini, so it felt only right to go back and get married there,â&#x20AC;? says Louise. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We also wanted a magical setting with guaranteed good weather, where we could have an intimate and special wedding. Plus, the amazing backdrop in our beautiful photographs simply could not be achieved back in the UK.â&#x20AC;? What was the best thing about your day? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The views from the venue were truly
outstanding, and we had a harpist playing as I walked down the aisle. The sound of the harp against those gorgeous ocean views was so special. We also incorporated some traditional Greek plate smashing into our reception at night, which was a hit with everyone, and great fun!â&#x20AC;? What are the three pieces of advice youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d give to couples getting married abroad? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry too much about keeping your guests entertained during the day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at a destination wedding, the location speaks for itself and everyone will just want to take it all in.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Forums and Facebook groups provide a wealth of knowledge â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we gained many recommendations from other couples.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Enjoy it! Many weddings abroad start later in the day, so before you know it, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be over. But waking up the next day in the sun and reliving the day with all your guests is so much fun.â&#x20AC;?
Marina and Simone had a relaxed wedding at AtzarĂł in sunny Ibiza atzaro.com Why did you opt for a destination wedding? â&#x20AC;&#x153;We live far away from our families, so loved the idea of bringing all of our dear ones somewhere special,â&#x20AC;? says Marina. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The sunshine and sea in Ibiza offered the perfect frame to our beautiful day.â&#x20AC;? What was the best thing about your day? â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the evening, we went to watch the sunset in Cala BenirrĂĄs, a beach in the north of Ibiza where people play the drums as the sun goes down. The atmosphere was utterly incredible.â&#x20AC;? What are the three pieces of advice youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d give to couples getting married abroad? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Do your homework. If you can, visit the place before your wedding, as the venue is just as important as the location.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Talk to different potential local suppliers before you commit â&#x20AC;&#x201C; get an idea about costs and check that they have the same vision for your day as you.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Make it clear to your guests early on whether you will be subsidising any of their costs, such as travel and accommodation.â&#x20AC;?
220 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Skye and Nick chose to say â&#x20AC;&#x153;I doâ&#x20AC;? against a stunning backdrop at The Olive Press in Boschendal, South Africa boschendal.com
What was the best thing about your day? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so hard to pick out one particular part of the day as it was all so magical, but our ceremony was really special.â&#x20AC;?
Why did you opt for a destination wedding? â&#x20AC;&#x153;We opted for South Africa as we both grew up there and it is where ZH Ă&#x20AC;UVW PHW Îź VD\V Skye. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We chose The Olive Press at Boschendal for its rustic French feel, not to mention the incredible backdrop â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it was the ultimate combination for us.â&#x20AC;?
What are the three pieces of advice youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d give to couples getting married abroad? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your suppliers are your trusted advisors, and often local experts, so listen to them to get the best out of your day.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were lucky as we had family in South Africa to help organise things, but try to get an on-the-ground wedding coordinator to help with things such as supplier liaison.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Go out to your destination a week before with all your guests â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we did this and it was the best build-up to the wedding that we could have asked for!â&#x20AC;?
WORDS BY RACHEL AVERY. SARAH AND KARLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PHOTOGRAPHS BY SOPHIE WARREN. SKYE AND NICKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PHOTOGRAPHS BY RUE KRUGER. MARINA AND SIMONEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PHOTOGRAPH BY MARINA ZENNARO. LAURA AND ANDYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANDREA PITTI. LOUISE AND PHILLIPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PHOTOGRAPHS BY VANGELIS PHOTOGRAPHY
Louise and Phillip said their vows at Le Ciel Santorini in Greece leciel-santorini.com
Rusper, nr Horsham
*K\OO 0DQRU QHVWOHG LQ WKH KHDUW RI WKH 6XVVH[ FRXQWU\VLGH R HUV D stunning location and a dedicated team committed to making your wedding dreams become a reality. The elegant 17th-century country house hotel brims with character and style, the traditional oak-beamed building gazes out over acres of gardens, including a lake and summerhouse. We cater for civil marriages, partnerships and wedding receptions, contact our friendly team to discuss your perfect day.
Our Classic Wedding Package starts at ÂŁ5999 for 65 guests Start planning today Call 01293 871571
email: enquiries@ghyllmanor.co.uk
visit: ghyllmanor.co.uk/weddings
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WHERSTEAD PARK Set within 17 acres of beautiful landscaped grounds in Sufolk. The unique building provides the perfect setting for your memorable wedding day, with two delightful places to hold your special occasion. whersteadpark.co.uk @WhersteadPark
PLAS DINAM Set in spectacular scenery in Wales, Plas Dinam is a beautiful mansion with Stables wedding barn, 15 lovely bedrooms & the option to self cater & choose suppliers so you can relax and enjoy a unique wedding weekend. plasdinamcountryhouse.co.uk @plasdinamcountryhouse @plasdinamcountryhouse
Country WEDDING venues GREENWOOD GRANGE Greenwood Grange is the perfect venue for a magical bespoke wedding reception. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your own private village in a charming rural setting which boasts 17 luxury self-catering cottages for up to 78 guests. greenwoodgrange.co.uk/weddings-events/weddings @greenwoodgrange
Get married amid the picturesque scenery of these pretty countryside venues. Featured on hitched where you see this symbol
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MAUNSEL HOUSE Maunsel House is a picture-perfect country house venue that is the ultimate place to celebrate love. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re having a civil wedding ceremony or a church wedding, we meticulously cover every detail. maunselhouse.co.uk @maunselhouseweddingsandevents @maunselhouse
EAST BRIDGFORD HILL East Bridgford is a wedding venue full of character, where bespoke style and friendship are the values of the day, where weddings have soul, wine has history and food is deliciously rustic. eastbridgfordhill.com @EastBridgfordHill.Robens @east_bridgford_hill
BERWICK LODGE Berwick Lodge is a magniďŹ cent country house, on the outskirts of Bristol, set in 18 acres of unique and enchanting gardens with a backdrop that reaches across to Wales. berwicklodge.co.uk @BerwickLodge @BerwickLodge
MIDDLETON HALL Georgian Grade II Listed Manor set amidst 42 acres of countryside, providing a spectacular backdrop for those all important photographs. Middleton Hall ofers the perfect setting for your special day. middleton-hall.co.uk @Middleton_HallExclusiveuse
LONGTON WOOD Longton Wood is a one of a kind venue, where couples can have all aspects of their wedding set amongst the ancient woodland. Camping, woodland blessings and tranquil reception space. longtonwood.co.uk
HATTON COURT A beautiful country house hotel in the Cotswolds. The garden marquee provides fantastic views, great food and attentive service. Gloucesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite venue ofers elegant surroundings for your special day. hatton-court.co.uk
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SOUTH FARM A romantic oasis nestled deep in the countryside, with enchanting gardens, a lovingly restored Grade II listed house and beautiful barns. Enjoy exclusive use, seasonal menus and luxurious accommodation. south-farm.co.uk @Southfarm1
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THE TYTHE BARN An incredibly beautiful 14th Century thatched barn on a working farm. Entirely exclusive and wonderfully private, the venue ofers both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, exclusive hire and award winning in-house catering. thetythebarn.co.uk @TheTytheBarn
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ANN GUISE SILK WEDDING VEILS Luxury bespoke silk wedding veils individually handmade to order using the very best quality silk fabric, embroidery and lace.
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POPORCELAIN POPORCELAIN from Copenhagen, Denmark, creates beautiful and delicate bridal porcelain jewellery. Every piece of bijou is carefully hand-crafted from fine white porcelain, experiencing more than 18 hours of kiln firing with temperatures reaching 1280°C. Jewellery lovingly decorated with gold tone and pearl elements; POPORCELAIN ofers modern or vintage style collections. All unique in shape and no two are exactly the same.
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HARRIET WILDE The collection of exquisite bridal and occasion shoes are available in a variety of heel heights, designed with style and comfort, each pair is lovingly crafted in the finest materials, all the satin styles can be dyed to any colour. The brand has a ready to wear collection of shoes, handbags and co-ordinating hair accessories, and a bespoke service. Available from the London showroom, online and regional stockists.
Bickerton House, 25 - 27 Bickerton Road, London 020 7263 4147 contact@harrietwilde.com harrietwilde.com
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Your FASHION guide Get inspired with this beautiful collection of dresses, shoes, accessories and much more!
AVA LOUISE BRIDAL
FREYA ROSE
Ava Louise Bridal Wear is a luxurious bridal boutique ofering beautiful wedding dresses, hand-picked from the following exclusive designers: St Patrick by Pronovias, Blue by Enzoani, Aire by Rosa Clara, Willowby by Watters, LM by Lusan Mandongus and bridesmaids by Dessy.
Multi-award winning shoe brand Freya Rose brings a new level of luxury to the shoe world with pieces designed in London and made by highly skilled artisans in Spain.
Our renowned designers give our clients a choice of traditional timeless classics, vintage glamour and bohemian romanticism. 74 Bedford Place, Southampton SO15 2DF 02380 638602 imogen@avalouisebridal.com avalouisebridal.com
@avalouisebridal
Freya Rose’s background in fine jewellery influences her creations, and she has been named ‘The Shoeller’ in view of her focus on using precious and luxurious materials including mother of pearl and sterling silver. Fans of Freya Rose include Kate Moss, Olivia Palermo, and Pixie Lott. 0845 371 4466 info@freyarose.com freyarose.com
@freyaroselondon
EMMA ELIZABETH BRIDAL
MARY’S OF ENFIELD
Emma Elizabeth Bridal is an intimate bridal boutique located on Twickenham Green. A family run business, we ofer exclusive appointments and we aim to give our brides a unique, fun and relaxing experience. We understand that shopping for your wedding dress can be emotional and by creating the right environment you can make a calm decision and find a dress that you simply fall in love with. If you are ready to start looking for the wedding dress of your dreams then book an appointment - we can’t wait to meet you!
LEADING THE WAY FOR MOTHERS OF THE BRIDE AND GROOM. A bright spacious showroom and more than 1000 outfits awaits you at Mary’s of Enfield. Knowledgeable staf are on hand to guide you through your choices, while your guests are comfortably seated. An expert in-house seamstress is instore daily to ensure a perfect fit. Premier stockists of Condici, John Charles, Ispirato, Irresistible, Ian Stuart, Veni Infantino and more. Sizes 6 - 26
24 The Green, Twickenham, London TW2 5AB 020 8894 7550 sales@emmaelizabethbridal.co.uk emmaelizabethbridal.co.uk
27 High Street, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire EN11 8SX 01992 466066 info@marysofenfield.co.uk marysofenfield.co.uk
@EmmaElizabethBridal
@MarysOfEnfield
BRIDES DO GOOD
LINDA GRAY BRIDAL WEAR
Brides do Good sells designer sample and pre-loved wedding dresses at an average discount of 70% of the original RRP. Visit the luxurious Mayfair boutique to discover dresses from bridal designers including Elie Saab, Ian Stuart, Galia Lahav, Suzanne Neville, Reem Acra, Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, Peter Langner and Sassi Holford. Up to two thirds of each sale is donated to charity partners, Plan International and Too Young to Wed, to protect and educate young girls.
Winners of Best UK Bridal Retailer plus many other National and International Bridal Industry Awards.
Thomas Goode, Lower Salon, 19 South Audley Street, Mayfair, London W1K 2BN 0808 1781 916 info@bridesdogood.com bridesdogood.com
@brides_do_good
Stockists of: Kenneth Winstone Ella Rosa Private Label Venus Verise Small friendly boutique with exceptional customer service.
Westgate Retail Park, Gloucester GL1 2RU 01452 418880
@LindaGrayBridalwear
VICTORIA GRACE BRIDAL
HELENA FORTLEY
Victoria Grace Bridal is based in Standard Quay in Faversham, Kent. We stock a wide range of bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses and accessories by designers including Kenneth Winston and Victoria Kay. Our gowns start from £295 and our samples range from a size 8 to 34 in our boutique. We look forward to welcoming you to Victoria Grace Bridal.
Voted in top 50 bridal boutiques in the UK, we sell a wide range of dresses from designers Wtoo, Willowby, Martina Liana, Stella York, Paloma Blanca and many more.
4a Standard Quay, Faversham Kent ME13 7BS 01795 531275 victoriagracebridal.co.uk
@victoriagracebridal
Please call to arrange an appointment.
16 Godstone Road, Caterham Surrey CR3 6RA 01883 335811 sally@helenafortley.co.uk helenafortley.co.uk
@helenafortley
DIRECTORY youandyourwedding.co.uk
FASHION
“THE BRIDAL BUDDY” The undergarment that conveniently holds your dress when nature calls! Tel: 0330 1331 2811 | www.thebridalbuddy.co.uk
You’ll never forget your visit to Flamingo. Discover the North of England’s premier collection of ladies Wedding and Occasion wear.
youandyourwedding.co.uk
LINEA RAFFAELLI
RONALD JOYCE
CONDICI
ISPIRATO
JOHN CHARLES
LUIS CIVIT
DIRECTORY
For the ultimate in Wedding and Occasion wear Flamingo of Penwortham are the North West’s premier destination store and offer an enviable range of creations from all the leading designers. We also stock an extensive collection of fabulous hats, fascinators, and accessories to complement your outfit. Then you can add the finishing touches creating the perfect shoes and bag with our exclusive Italian bespoke shoe service.
Tel: 01772 744 277
|
www.flamingo-fashion.co.uk
|
67 Liverpool Road, Penwortham, Preston PR1 9XD
To advertise here please call Hannah on 0117 300 8133
ISPIRATO
IAN STUART
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youandyourwedding.co.uk
FASHION
youandyourwedding.co.uk
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ENTERTAINMENT
Full w edd DJ ser ing also a vice vailab le
STYLE WITH A 3 CHANNEL SILENT DISCO AT YOUR RECEPTION!
Photo courtesy of nicolathompsonphotography.co.uk Party into the early hours with no noise pollution!
0203 727 5382 info@silentnoizeevents.com www.silentnoizeevents.com
youandyourwedding.co.uk
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ENTERTAINMENT
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VENUES
BEST WEDDING VENUE London Venue Awards
WEDDINGS
Save up to £2500 on your Sunday Wedding
AT EASTNOR
The perfect fairytale castle for the most memorable day of your life. You will find tranquillity, splendour and complete exclusivity, and whatever you are planning, we will ensure that we exceed your expectations. The castle is an exclusive hire venue with 12 beautiful bedrooms hosting a limited number of very special weddings each year. Please call Jodie Varney, our wedding co-ordinator, on 01531 633160 or email enquiries@eastnorcastle.com Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 1RL eastnorcastle.com /EastnorCastle @EastnorCastle
HIRE the Great Hall & State Rooms from £5000 (save £2500)
HIRE the State Rooms from £3500 (save £1500)
For applicable 2019 dates and full terms and conditions please visit our website: www.onegreatgeorgestreet.com/special-offers
ORCHARDLEIGH ESTATE Nestled amidst 500 acres of parkland and lakes, Orchardleigh Estate offers two exclusive use wedding venues, Orchardleigh House and The Walled Garden, as well as an idyllic island Church and plenty of luxurious accommodation.
youandyourwedding.co.uk
The enchanting array of backdrops make Orchardleigh Estate a truly magical and unique setting to hold your entire wedding day; from the wedding ceremony, through to the reception drinks, wedding breakfast and evening celebrations.
Orchardleigh Estate, Frome, Somerset BA11 2PB 01373 472550 info@orchardleigh.net www.orchardleigh.net
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Plus Wedding
Travel Boxes For Weddings Abroad
T H E E M P T Y B OX C O M PA N Y
Also Beautiful Accessories for the Bride & Reception
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01386 555045 | www.confettidirect.co.uk
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STATIONERY
info@caboodle.wedding www.caboodle.wedding
youandyourwedding.co.uk
Paper Pleasures invite you to view their
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HighQuality WeddingStationery at
paperpleasures.co.uk individually designed hand finished & beautifully packaged PAP E R P LE AS U R E S : 0 1 9 8 3 2 9 5 4 1 9 studio@paperpleasures.co.uk
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Your STATIONERY collection From invites to decorative table placards, our pick of stationers are experts in the field!
I DO INVITES I Do Invites create beautiful bespoke stationery for your big day. This happy couple said “I Do” at the zoo! The set was completed with matching On The Day stationery. idoinvites.co.uk
HERE COMES THE BRIDE Unique & creative wedding stationery, hand-finished to order by small experienced family team. Pocketfold Specialist. Full collection on website. hctbweddinginvitations.co.uk
DREAMS TO REALITY Elegant and Personalised Wedding Stationery from Dreams to Reality. Full stationery suites available - visit the website to view current designs and special ofers! dreams-to-reality.co.uk
IVY ELLEN Contemporary, luxury wedding invitations and stationery with a huge variety of custom options. Free samples using coupon code IVYLOVE. Invitations from just £1.30. IvyEllen.com 0203 034 1200
LEAF LANE STUDIO Leaf Lane Studio ofers pretty, hand-painted wedding stationery, such as the popular ‘Fleur’ collection. Bespoke services, such as hand-lettering, are also available.. leaflanestudio.com
SARAH WANTS Whimsical, rustic stationery created with pretty florals, rustic textures and elegant lace detailing. Find lots more prettiness like this on the website. sarahwants.com
PROJECT PRETTY Project Pretty ofer creative, contemporary and whimsical wedding stationery, packed with personality and prettiness! View our collections and order online. projectpretty.co.uk
ARTCADIA Artcadia creates beautiful letterpress and hot foil wedding stationery. These invitations not only look incredible but feel tactile and luxurious in hand. artcadia.co.uk
BEIJA FLOR STUDIO Bespoke wedding stationery and design. A beautiful modern take on traditional wedding stationery, for all your wedding stationery needs. beijaflorstudio.co.uk
What we love
6MUST-HAVES surprising planning Trust us, these easy-to-overlook ideas should be in every bride-to-be’s wedding toolkit
W
hen it comes to your wedding essentials, we think you should look beyond the obvious. While a planning app will be a big help, there are other products and services out there which, while not specifically wedding-related, can make your life easier.
Wine in a can We’re certainly not suggesting you turn to alcohol to get you through wedding planning! However, this lightly sparkling pinot grigio in individual cans by Most Wanted Wines, is great to have in the fridge to add some fizz to at-home tasks with friends. We’re talking bridesmaid dress try-on sessions in your living room, or your maid of honour coming over to help you address the invitations. Plus, you won’t have to faf around looking for a corkscrew, mostwantedwines.co.uk
AMAZING TAPE If you’re doing any DIY décor, you won’t know how you got by without this before. Coloured and patterned masking tape is a quick and easy way to prettify anything, from favours to candles, mtmaskingtape.co.uk
LITERARY DISTRACTIONS
Schlepping between supplier meetings and dress appointments is thirsty work. Keep some H2O to hand and stay hydrated on the go. The beautiful bottles from Bkr are a joy to carry, and beat buying single-use plastic every time, mybkr.co.uk 234 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Multiple thank-yous The process of putting together your celebration involves a lot of thankyous. We suggest having a pack of cards in reserve, like these from Paperchase, in case of unexpected kindnesses in the run-up to your big day, paperchase.co.uk
PAPER PERFECTION
In the latest ‘give your phone a break’ news, the gorgeous notebooks from the & Other Stories stationery range are ideal for jotting down ideas and making to-do lists. Yes, doing things digitally is convenient, but we still recommend having a planning notebook – after the wedding you’ll have it as a keepsake, stories.com
WORDS BY HANNAH DAVIES
HYDRATION HELP
Listen to the latest bestselling thrillers or make-you-think nonfiction to fully distract yourself from any pre-wedding stress, £7.99 per month, audible.co.uk
BOTLEYS MANSION, SURREY
CAIN MANOR, SURREY-HAMPSHIRE BORDER
NOTLEY ABBEY, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE-OXFORDSHIRE BORDER
SILCHESTER HOUSE, BERKSHIRE
CHATEAU DU BIJOU, FRANCE
OPENING SOON – THE HARPER, NORTH NORFOLK
ELEGANT EXCLUSIVITY – BIJOU WEDDING VENUES
0345 130 9966 YOURDAY@ B IJOUW EDDINGS. C O. UK B IJOUW EDDINGVENUES. C O. UK
JAMAICA ANTIGUA SAINT LUCIA BAHAMAS GRENADA BARBADOS
REDEFINING LUXURY since 1981
From SWIM-UP POOL BARS and PRIVATE OFFSHORE ISLANDS to ONE-OF-A-KIND SUITES and OVER-THE-WATER INNOVATIONS – we’ve been leading the way from the very beginning!
2017
22 Years Running
H O N E Y M O O N AT T H E R E S O R T S M A D E F O R L O V E To be the best requires creativity, commitment, and constant innovation - all things we do very well at Sandals Resorts. And one of the reasons we keep getting voted the best all-inclusive resorts in the world is because only Sandals Resorts includes the best of everything. The Caribbean’s most spectacular beaches and decadently romantic suites with private plunge pools. English Guild trained butlers and world-class service. Premium brand drinks at up to 11 bars, and delectable 5-Star Global Gourmet™ dining at up to 16 specialty restaurants per resort. More land and water sports than you can imagine, including golf*, waterskiing, and complimentary scuba diving^. It’s the perfect choice for a dream honeymoon in a Caribbean paradise.
CALL 0800 742 742 • VISIT SANDALS.CO.UK • COME IN STORE - LONDON, SW3 6RT • SEE YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT
*Mandatory caddies or carts at cost. ^Two free dives per day for certified divers . Additional T&Cs may apply.
F R O M OV E R - T H E - WAT E R BA R S
A N D P R I VA T E O F F S H O R E I S L A N D S
TO ONE-OF-A-KIND SUITES
NOV/DEC 2018
HONEYMOON GUIDE
Luxe HOTELS, beautiful RESORTS & unforgettable MEMORIES
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
WELCOME W
39 58
33
eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thrilled that the idyllic shores of the Seychelles on the cover have tempted you into our ultimate honeymoon guide. Kick back and relax (and maybe even pour yourself a cocktail), because weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to transport you to honeymoon heaven! After much consideration, deliberation and swooning, we have compiled over 100 hotels and resorts to inspire your post-wedding break. Start with a quick and easy TXL] WR Ă&#x20AC;QG RXW \RXU LGHDO honeymoon style, and then weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take you on a tour of the world, continent by continent. For each GHVWLQDWLRQ \RX¡OO Ă&#x20AC;QG DYHUDJH travel-time information and an idea about when is best to go, to help with your decision. Plus, on p61, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your chance
Contents
42 to win a romantic â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rail-moonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; around northern Italy! To bring you this incredible collection of honeymoon ideas, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve teamed up with the Turquoise Holiday Company â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the experts in creating the most breathtaking trips and wonderful tailormade itineraries. From the Maldives to Fiji, all the way to the Caribbean and Malaysia, throughout this guide \RX¡OO Ă&#x20AC;QG DPD]LQJ KROLGD\ packages that the Turquoise team have recommended. Whatever your honeymoon style and dream destination, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got everything covered!
The You & Your Wedding team
11
6 9 17 25 31 37 41 44 47 53 57 61 62 66
Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your honeymoon style? Indian Ocean Asia The Caribbean Africa North America South PaciďŹ c Honeymoon hotlist Latin America Middle East & North Africa Europe Win a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rail-moonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in Italy Perfect pairings Jet-set essentials
Key Ă&#x201C; TRAVEL TIME 30
WHEN TO GO
ALL AVERAGE TRAVEL TIMES FROM LONDON HEATHROW, ACTUAL TIMINGS MAY DIFFER DEPENDING ON ITINERARY. ALL PRICES SHOWN ARE GUIDE PRICES CORRECT AT THE TIME OF WRITING AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND SEASONAL VARIATIONS.
What’s your
HONEYMOON STYLE? Take our quick and easy quiz to find out what sort of getaway you should book
1
What’s your holiday priority? A Spending some quality quiet-time together
2
Which of these words best describes you as a couple? A Laid-back
3
What do you look for most when choosing a hotel? A A rooftop pool
B Getting an adrenaline rush
B Spontaneous
B Complimentary watersports
C Learning something new
C Inquisitive
C Proximity to the local town
6 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Find your destination
4
What’s your idea of fun? A Cocktails at a swim-up bar B Zip-lining through a forest
6
5
A Instagram your in-room champagne and canapés
B A yurt
7
Which app is the most used on your phone? A The photo-editing app to get that perfect shot B The weather app for pre-adventure preparation
C Dump the luggage to head out and explore
C The map app for exploring
As
8
Which food treat would be your favourite? A Lobster B Oysters C Pho
B Enquire about the hotel’s excursions
MOSTLY
WORDS BY RACHEL AVERY, MAIN PHOTOGRAPH BY GETTY
A A high-end hotel C A church
C Touring around a museum What’s the first thing you would do after checking in?
Your wedding venue is…
MOSTLY
Bs
9
How would you describe your fashion sense? A Chic B Practical C Eclectic
MOSTLY
Cs
LUXURY LOVERS
ADVENTURERS
CULTURE SEEKERS
For you, a honeymoon is a chance to experience a slice of the high life. You’re seeking a five-star resort where you can wine, dine and sun yourself to your heart’s content – and do it all again the day after. We suggest a retreat in the Indian Ocean, or a super-luxe city break.
For you, living life to the full means embarking on high-octane adventures whenever possible. You want your honeymoon to be a memorable trip, full of once-in-a-lifetime activities. Consider booking an African safari or a tour around Latin America for an action-packed experience.
The idea of an all-inclusive, fly-andflop honeymoon fills you with dread. You want to immerse yourself in the culture and buzz of a country and really get to know it. Check out a European destination for a historyfilled break, or head to Asia for a fascinating cultural experience.
OPTION 1 Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas At this gorgeous hideaway in the Maldives, p12 you’ll have unforgettable moments like sipping champagne in the underwater restaurant and taking amazing snaps of the ocean sunset from the SKY bar.
OPTION 1 Bwindi Lodge Uganda may not be your first thought when planning p32 a honeymoon, but for the chance to get up close to rainforest wildlife, this luxury lodge has it all. The highlight of a holiday here is the gorilla-tracking experience.
OPTION 1 The Reverie Saigon Right in the heart of Vietnam’s biggest city, Ho p20 Chi Minh, you’ll be perfectly positioned to visit the local markets and funky cofee shops of a destination that’s becoming increasingly popular for honeymoons.
OPTION 2 Six Senses Zil Pasyon This stunning Seychelles resort overlooks an p9 unspoilt stretch of sand. Absolutely perfect for lazy days in the sunshine – particularly with the comfort of your own infinity pool.
OPTION 2 andBeyond Vira Vira Adventure can start from the get-go with a p48 helicopter arrival at this remote resort in Chile. Tick of other must-dos, such as rafting, mountain biking and horseback riding.
OPTION 2 Alila Yangshuo A converted sugar mill in China could be your dream p18 destination! Stunning contemporary rooms combine with extraordinary mountain landscapes and local cultural activities.
OPTION 3 Le Meurice The epitome of five-star luxury on Paris’ rue de Rivoli. Come for p57 the city, stay for the most beautiful décor and fine dining, including the two Michelin stars of Restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse.
OPTION 3 Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort Combine the coast and p49 the jungle at Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio National Park, where highlights include ziplining, abseiling and whale-watching.
OPTION 3 Rome Cavalieri This beautiful resort overlooks the Eternal City, and is within p58 easy reach of all the famous attractions. The feel is more resort than urban hotel – so you can combine relaxtion and sightseeing.
youandyourwedding.co.uk 7
Fashioned for the discerning escapist SAVE UP TO
55%
The St. Regis Mauritius 7 Nights Full Board from ÂŁ1599pp Travel: 20 May - 30 Jun 2019 / 01 Sept - 23 Sept 2019 Return Economy lights Private VIP transfers & UK Lounge Save up to 55% FREE upgrade to Full Board FREE upgrade to Ocean Junior Suite
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Your Dream Beach Wedding at The St. Regis Mauritius Resort Weddings at St. Regis are celebrations beyond expectation. Every detail is attended to with care; every moment is a cherished memory in the making. Each St. Regis address is one of authentic distinction and storied elegance. Imagine exchanging vows in an elegant ballroom setting or delighting in a irst dance on a private beach lit only by the stars. From personalised menus to exquisitely appointed venues to impeccable service, a seasoned St. Regis specialist stands ready to ensure your most precious day is also your most memorable.
020 8774 7298 â&#x20AC;˘ www.luxuryholidaysdirect.com Celebrating over 38 Years of Travel Experience
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INDIAN OCEAN Often described as sheer paradise, this region has pristine beaches and clear blue waters – a picture-perfect destination
SEYCHELLES Ó
10h 40m
30
Apr–May & Oct–Nov
Six Senses Zil Pasyon We’re pretty sure that all of the Seychelles’ 115 islands are absolutely stunning, but the unspoilt beauty at Six Senses Zil Pasyon is another level of wonder. The palm-lined pool is perfect for a morning dip, and the huge spa, with its endless list of luxury treatments, is extremely inviting. In the evenings, you can try traditional cuisine or opt for dishes from
around the world. After plenty of wining, dining, and sheer relaxation, torch some calories on a picturesque cycle ride or a magical sunset hike. From £7,700pp for a seven-night stay, based on two people staying in a Hideaway Pool Villa on a bed and breakfast basis, including international flights and private helicopter transfers, scottdunn.com youandyourwedding.co.uk 9
Shangri-Laâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa
Indian Ocean Ceylon Tea Trails
SRI LANKA Ă&#x201C;
Banyan Tree Seychelles
Banyan Tree Seychelles
If the promise of a private pool no matter your villa category isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough to tempt you, the rum-shack beach bar and local FXLVLQH DW WKLV Ă&#x20AC;YH VWDU UHVRUW just might be. The awardwinning spa is just the icing on top of one very delicious honeymoon cake. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a spa with a view, and the therapists offer a range of signature treatments
using massage techniques, natural scrubs and tropical rain showers to get you feeling totally zen. From ÂŁ2,938pp for four nights in an Ocean View Pool Villa, based on two sharing, for holidays in 2019. Includes breakfast, economy flights with Qatar Airways from London Heathrow, and private transfers to and from the resort. Extra nights are from ÂŁ441pppn, kuoni.co.uk
11h 30m
30
Apr & Sepâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Nov
Shangri-Laâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa ,I Ă&#x20AC;UVW LPSUHVVLRQV FRXQW \RX¡OO be blown away by this dreamy resort on the southern shores of Sri Lanka. The unbelievable surroundings simply speak for themselves â&#x20AC;&#x201C; turn one way and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll look out on the vast turquoise ocean, turn the other way and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be treated to views of luscious rainforest. During your stay, make sure you pay a visit to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Villageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, an area within the resort dedicated to local artisan stalls and workshops.
This intimate resort has just Ă&#x20AC;YH FODVVLF EXQJDORZV HDFK with its own personal butler. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be torn between soaking up the home-from-home atmosphere at the resort or getting out to explore the surrounding area. With whitewater rafting, hiking and mountain biking all on the agenda, we suggest you embark on a day of activities and top it off with an in-room massage and tantalising Sri Lankan cuisine on the terrace. From US$758pn (approx. ÂŁ575) on a fully inclusive basis, based on two sharing, includes daily breakfast, lunch, afternoon cream tea, pre-dinner cocktails, dinner, soft and alcoholic beverages, a Tea Experience and all taxes and service charges, resplendentceylon.com/teatrails Ceylon Tea Trails
From approx. ÂŁ232pn, based on two people sharing, includes taxes and fees, shangrila.com
RĂ&#x2030;UNION Ă&#x201C;
12h 30m
30
Aprâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May & Sept
LUX* Saint Gilles
A French island in the Indian Ocean, RĂŠunion is the perfect spot for a honeymoon hideaway. <RX¡OO Ă&#x20AC;QG WKLV VHFOXGHG KDYHQ on the west coast, and a stay here is all about uninterrupted bliss. You can organise an unforgettable helicopter ride
Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa
Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa
This resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 110 rooms are perfectly positioned, either nestled in the luscious greenery or dotted along the beach â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in your own private paradise. For something extra special, check in at Silhouette Estate, a twobed villa tucked away from the main resort. A stay here will start with a private helicopter 10 youandyourwedding.co.uk
or boat transfer, before youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re welcomed into your new home with a bottle of sparkling wine. There will also be chance for a breakfast with a difference in a romantic gazebo, and your private butler will be on hand to take care of everything, from booking activities to in-villa dining. From ÂŁ275pn for a King Garden Villa on a B&B basis, and from ÂŁ2,845pn for Silhouette Estate on a B&B basis, hiltonseychelleslabriz.com
LUX* Saint Gilles
over RĂŠunionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s active volcano, and take to the ocean in an Instagram-worthy clear kayak. In signature LUX* style, if \RX Ă&#x20AC;QG D PHVVDJH LQ D ERWWOH on the beach, it could be your ticket to a complimentary massage, a scuba-diving lesson or even dinner on the beach! From â&#x201A;Ź392pn (approx. ÂŁ350) on a B&B basis in a Superior Room, luxresorts.com
Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita
MAURITIUS Ó
12h 30m
30
Mar–Apr & Oct–Nov
Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita
Home to a spectacular overwater spa, four amazing restaurants and 136 blissful rooms, all with an ocean backdrop that lives up to the brochures, this is the epitome of paradise. With endless things to see and do, your honeymoon schedule can be as jam-packed or relaxed as you like – the choice is yours. Staff are on hand to give you a game or two of tennis, and you can’t leave without saying hello to the resident giant tortoises! From £2,135pp*, staying in a Garden Pool Villa on a halfboard basis, includes economy flights and private transfers, based on two adults sharing, inspiringtravelcompany.co.uk
Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel
*VALID FOR TRAVEL COMPLETED BY 25 DECEMBER 2018. COUPLES MUST TRAVEL WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF THEIR WEDDING DATE AND PROVIDE A COPY OF THEIR MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE. **PRICE BASED ON FLIGHTS FROM LONDON GATWICK, SUPPLEMENTS MAY APPLY FOR OTHER DEPARTURE AIRPORTS. VALID FOR TRAVEL ON SELECTED DATES FROM 24 APRIL TO 11 JULY 2019.
Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa
Situated in a quiet cove in the north of Mauritius, rest and UHOD[DWLRQ DUH ÀUPO\ RQ WKH agenda here. This adults-only retreat has been designed with romance in mind. Scattered all over the resort \RX·OO ÀQG DGRUDEOH WKDWFKHG ‘love nests’ that are perfect for afternoon lounging, and WKH VWXQQLQJ LQÀQLW\ SRRO LV
the stuff honeymoon dreams are made of. The ‘you&me’ concept here is all about creating special memories together – whether that’s checking in at the open-air spa or simply going on an afternoon of cycling. From £3,989** for two people, for a seven-night stay on an all-inclusive basis in a Deluxe Premium Room with return Emirates flights, emiratesholidays.com
Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel
Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa
As soon as you set eyes on this idyllic sanctuary on the northern coast of Mauritius, you’ll fall in love. Check in to the adults-only area known as ‘Victoria for 2’ for utter tranquility. This secluded wing is home to 17 swim-up rooms, where you can hop straight out of bed and into the calm waters for a refreshing early-morning
dip. As well as getting in some serious chill-time, do venture away from the pool to check out the resort’s extensive list of activities on the glorious waters – kayaking, snorkelling and glass-bottom boat rides are all complimentary. From £1,630pp for seven nights in a Ocean View Room on an all-inclusive basis, includes economy class flights with Air Mauritius and hotel transfers, beachcombertours.uk youandyourwedding.co.uk 11
Indian Ocean Constance Moofushi $ JHW DZD\ IURP LW DOO EUHDN ZKHUH \RX FDQ EH JXDUDQWHHG WKDW DOO RI \RXU QHHGV ZLOO EH WDNHQ FDUH RI 7KH UHVRUW LV DOO LQFOXVLYH VR \RX FDQ HDW DQG GULQN WR \RXU KHDUW·V FRQWHQW DQG WKHUH·V D ¶QR QHZV QR VKRHV· SROLF\ WR HQFRXUDJH \RX WR NLFN EDFN DQG IXOO\ UHOD[
GXULQJ \RXU VWD\ 0HPRUDEOH H[SHULHQFHV DW WKH UHVRUW LQFOXGH D QLJKW Ã&#x20AC;VKLQJ H[FXUVLRQ D SULYDWH FLQHPD RQ WKH EHDFK DQG D VXQVHW FUXLVH LQ D WUDGLWLRQDO GKRQL ERDW From £2,850pp for seven nights in a Beach Villa all-inclusive, includes return international flights and transfers, turquoiseholidays.co.uk
Constance Moofushi
Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
Ã&#x201C;
11h 30m
30
Marâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas Taking Maldivian magic to WKH QH[W OHYHO WKLV Ã&#x20AC;YH VWDU UHVRUW KDV PHUJHG VLJKWVHHLQJ ZLWK Ã&#x20AC;QH GLQLQJ LQ DQ HSLF XQGHUZDWHU UHVWDXUDQW <RX FDQ HQMR\ ZRQGHUIXO GLVKHV ZKLOH PDUYHOOLQJ DW WKH WURSLFDO FUHDWXUHV VZLPPLQJ Dhigali Maldives
DURXQG \RX $V ZHOO DV WKH ZRQGHUV EHORZ WKHUH·V PXFK WR EH HQMR\HG DERYH VHD OHYHO 6SHQG D UHOD[LQJ PRUQLQJ LQ WKH RYHUZDWHU VSD SDUWDNH LQ a sunset yoga session on the EHDFK DQG VSHQG WKH HYHQLQJ VWDUJD]LQJ DW WKH FOHDU VNLHV IURP WKH DSSURSULDWHO\ QDPHG 6.< EDU ZLWK WKH LQ KRXVH DVWURQRPHU From £787pn for a Beach Pool Villa for two adults and up to two children on a B&B basis, anantara.com
Dhigali Maldives )URP WKH EHDXWLIXO EHDFK EXQJDORZV WR LG\OOLF RYHUZDWHU ODJRRQ YLOODV \RX·UH VXUH WR Ã&#x20AC;QG \RXU RZQ SULYDWH KDYHQ DW WKLV LQFUHGLEOH Ã&#x20AC;YH VWDU UHVRUW QDPHG DIWHU WKH WLQ\ LVODQG LW FDOOV KRPH &KRRVH ZKLFK RI WKH WKUHH LQÃ&#x20AC;QLW\ SRROV \RX ZDQW WR OD]H E\ DQG PDUYHO DW WKH YLHZV DFURVV WKH XOWUD FDOP ZDWHUV <RX·OO EH OHIW WR HQMR\ WKH OX[XULRXV VXUURXQGLQJV DW \RXU RZQ OHLVXUH EXW VKRXOG you need them, the attentive VWDII ZLOO DOZD\V EH WKHUH WR KHOS PDNH \RXU KRQH\PRRQ GUHDPV FRPH WUXH ² ZKHWKHU WKDW·V ZLWK D ORYHO\ EUHDNIDVW LQ EHG D VRRWKLQJ PDVVDJH RU D URPDQWLF VXQVHW FUXLVH From £2,055pp* for seven nights in a Beach Bungalow, includes breakfast, return flights with SriLankan Airlines from London Heathrow, and group transfers in resort, kuoni.co.uk
12 youandyourwedding.co.uk
*FOR SELECTED DEPARTURES IN APRIL AND JUNE 2019 BASED ON TWO ADULTS SHARING. TO BOOK, QUOTE TOUR REF MV020
THE MALDIVES
You & Your Wedding promotion
PARADISE AWAITS Indulge in an exotic and luxurious island-hopping honeymoon in the picture-perfect Seychelles, with the help of the honeymoon experts at The Turquoise Holiday Company
Denis Private Island
T
he stunning islands of the Seychelles are an oasis of beauty and relaxation, offering the once-in-a-lifetime experiences and sophisticated luxury all honeymooners dream of. While it is a desirable year-round destination, the Seychelles’ dry season typically falls between March and November, so it’s the perfect choice for couples tying the knot in the spring and summer months. What’s more,
thanks to British Airways’ new GLUHFW ÁLJKW IURP /RQGRQ WR Mahé (the main island of the Seychelles), getting there has never been easier. The Seychelles’ larger inner islands of Mahé, Praslin and /D 'LJXH ERDVW VZHHSLQJ white-sand beaches framed by dramatic landscapes of mountains, boulders and rainforests. Mahé is a great place to experience the local Seychellois way of life, and
the island’s capital, Victoria, is a must-visit for its vibrant market and delicious Creole cuisine. The beautiful Beau Vallon beach is another Mahé hot spot, and one of the islands’ top beaches, where you’ll ÀQG SOHQW\ RI DFWLYLW\ DQG entertainment. Turquoise’s top accommodation picks here are Banyan Tree Seychelles for its breathtaking beach, and Four Seasons Resort Seychelles Mahé, for its private pool villas.
Praslin, meanwhile, is celebrated for its chilled island vibe and selection of peaceful EHDFKHV LQFOXGLQJ $QVH /D]LR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; considered by many to be one of the best in the world. Rent a car, pack a picnic and drive from coast to coast to take in all the sights, before putting your feet up at Turquoise favourite, &RQVWDQFH /HPXULD 5HVRUW $ short boat ride away over on /D 'LJXH YLVLWRUV DUH VSRLOW with incredible snorkelling opportunities, unmissable bars and seafood restaurants. The Turquoise team recommends VWD\LQJ DW /H 'RPDLQH GH lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Orangerie for its great location and quirky rooms. Just off the FRDVW RI /D 'LJXH OLHV )pOLFLWp an intimate island accessed by helicopter or boat and home to Six Senses Zil Pasyon, a stunning resort combining sustainability with barefoot luxury. Beyond these stunning mountainous inner isles lie a scattering of one-of-a-kind outer coraline islands, blessed with FDOP ODJRRQV VSHFWDFXODU D]XUH waters and exclusive private DFFRPPRGDWLRQ 'HSHQGLQJ on your style, budget and honeymoon desires, Turquoise UHFRPPHQGV HLWKHU 'HQLV Private Island or Four Seasons 5HVRUW 6H\FKHOOHV 'HVURFKHV Island. With a laid-back vibe and HFR FXOWXUH 'HQLV ,VODQG LV D Six Senses Zil Pasyon, FĂŠlicitĂŠ
Banyan Tree Seychelles, MahĂŠ
Constance Lemuria, Praslin
true Robinson Crusoe hideaway, with rustic bungalows tucked among trees just steps away from swathes of private beaches. Alternatively, the brand-new )RXU 6HDVRQV 5HVRUW RQ 'HVURFKHV offers pristine pool villas and a sophisticated style that is modern, yet charming, and in keeping with the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lush tropical surroundings. Island-hopping is part and parcel of a Turquoise honeymoon in the Seychelles. You can H[SHFW Ă&#x20AC;UVW KDQG NQRZOHGJH and honest expert advice when it comes to planning which islands, hotels and resorts are best suited to you. For Turquoise, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about attention to detail and curating extraordinary honeymoon experiences for each and every couple.
Four Seasons Resort, Desroches Island
Just for you The Turquoise Holiday Company specialises in creating unique and bespoke honeymoon itineraries to the Seychelles and beyond. A 10-night Seychelles itinerary visiting two islands, including accommodation, daily breakfast, return La Digue
LQWHUQDWLRQDO Ă LJKWV DQG transfers starts from ÂŁ2,249 per person. Book a complimentary honeymoon appointment to meet the team in the /RQGRQ RU %HDFRQVĂ&#x20AC;HOG RIĂ&#x20AC;FHV E\ FDOOLQJ 678400, or visiting turquoiseholidays.co.uk
...the world’s most romantic holiday...
The Caribbean’s premier All-Inclusive experience for your wedding, honeymoon or simply discovering each other again.
Perfect.
Passionate. Priceless.
Your holiday package includes FREE ~ Water skiing with professional instruction ~ Scuba Diving with professional instruction ~ Windsurfing with professional instruction ~ Tennis with professional instruction ~ 24hour gourmet dining ~ Premium brand drinks ~ Golf (18holes) ~ Selection of off–site excursions ~ Weddings* *Mandatory $250 for marriage license
Reservations 020 7749 9285 Information & brochures 01582 794 420 www.couplesresorts.co.uk
ASIA Where sun, sea and sand are combined with lively culture, you can be as chilled or as adventurous as you like in this hot-right-now location
INDONESIA Ó
14h
30
May–Jun & Sept–Oct
*VALID UNTIL 31 MARCH 2019
Bulgari Resort Bali As a brand that’s synonymous with luxury, you’d expect nothing less than excellence at a Bulgari hotel, and here in Bali, the incredible service is paired with the most amazing setting. Perched cliffside, with the glistening Indian Ocean below, we challenge you to admire the view without thinking ‘wow!’ at least once. The spa is a gem in
the centre of the resort, and its tranquil gardens are perfect for a relaxing pre-treatment. Come evening time, kick back at Il Bar, which has outstanding vistas out over the cliffs. From £3,280pp for seven nights, based on two people sharing, incl. breakfast, economy flights, private transfers and UK airport lounge passes*, elegantresorts.co.uk youandyourwedding.co.uk 17
Asia
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
Set in the tropical Ayung 5LYHU 9DOOH\ LQ WKH OXVFLRXV UDLQIRUHVW WKLV JHP LQ %DOL LV MXVW ZDLWLQJ WR EH GLVRYHUHG The emphasis here is on calm ² IURP WKH UHVRUW·V EHDXWLIXO $\XQJ WHUUDFH \RX FDQ REVHUYH
WKH EUHDWKWDNLQJ WUHHWRS YLHZV DQG LI \RX JR RQ D YDOOH\ ZDON \RX·OO GLVFRYHU D QDWXUDO SRRO of spring water. Stop by the ULYHUVLGH VSD IRU D WUDGLWLRQDO WUHDWPHQW LQYROYLQJ %DOLQHVH healing rituals accompanied by the sound of the gentle ULYHU FXUUHQWV From £390pn, fourseasons.com/sayan
The Leela Goa
INDIA Ã&#x201C;
9h
30
Octâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Mar
The Leela Goa
Goa is known for its incredible EHDFKHV DQG \RX FRXOG EH staying just footsteps away from one of the best. The Leela LV SHUIHFWO\ SRVLWLRQHG ZLWK DFFHVV WR WKH SRZGHU\ VRIW good stuff on one side and the 6DO 5LYHU ZHDYLQJ WKURXJK WKH Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
CHINA Ã&#x201C;
10h 30m
30
Marâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May & Septâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Oct
Alila Yangshuo
An hour away from the tourist KXE RI *XLOLQ H[SHULHQFH ultimate seclusion at Alila Yangshuo. If you want a quiet UHWUHDW \RXU FRPI\ URRP DQG the idyllic spa are there to be
WURSLFDO JDUGHQV RQ WKH RWKHU This coastal region is also famed IRU LWV GHOLFLRXV VHDIRRG DQG ZLWK Ã&#x20AC;YH UHVWDXUDQWV WR FKRRVH IURP KHUH \RX·OO EH VXUH WR VDPSOH WKH Ã&#x20AC;QHVW WKH DUHD KDV WR RIIHU 7KH SUHWW\ YLOODJH RI &DYHORVVLP LV MXVW D Ã&#x20AC;YH PLQXWH walk away. From £1,966pp for a seven-night B&B stay, based on two adults sharing, incl. flights from London Gatwick* and transfers, tui.co.uk Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans
HQMR\HG EXW WKHUH·V VR PXFK to do in the surrounding areas that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll actually want to get out and about. Try your hand DW URFN FOLPELQJ GRLQJ W·DL FKL V\UXS PDNLQJ DQG SDLQWLQJ with the help of the leisure concierge. From £154pn, based on two people sharing on a room-only basis (excl. tax), alilahotels.com/yangshuo Alila Yangshuo
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans
The Andaman archipelago is PDGH XS RI EHDXWLIXO LVODQGV WKH ELJJHVW EHLQJ +DYHORFN ² and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on these sandy shores that this dreamy hideaway lies. They donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do anything by KDOYHV DW WKLV EHDXWLIXO UHVRUW ² \RX·OO Ã&#x20AC;QG DQ 2O\PSLF OHQJWK swimming pool at the heart of WKH KRWHO D SULYDWH FKDUWHU ERDW IRU LVODQG KRSSLQJ DQG KRXU 18 youandyourwedding.co.uk
URRP VHUYLFH VR \RX FDQ HQMR\ delicious cuisine in your own URRP ZKHQHYHU \RX ZDQW LW Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the chance to schedule D RQFH LQ D OLIHWLPH DFWLYLW\ IRU HYHU\ VLQJOH GD\ RI \RXU VWD\ ² WU\ VFXED GLYLQJ QLJKW ND\DNLQJ D YLVLW WR $VLD·V RQO\ OLYH YROFDQR RU HYHQ EDE\ WXUWOH REVHUYDWLRQ VHVVLRQV WKDW DUH DYDLODEOH IURP 'HFHPEHU WR February. From approx. £280pn, tajhotels.com
MALAYSIA Ã&#x201C;
13h
30
Octâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
The Datai Langkawi
*BASED ON TRAVEL ON 4 NOVEMBER 2018. **TRAVEL UNTIL 20 DECEMBER 2018
The monkeys and tropical birds will be your only neighbours at this remote resort in the heart RI WKH UDLQIRUHVW 7KH Ã&#x20AC;YH VWDU luxury is effortlessly teamed ZLWK D ODLG EDFN YLEH PHDQLQJ youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel right at home.
Wellness and relaxation are top RI WKH DJHQGD KHUH VR DIWHU D day of taking in the wonder of /DQJNDZL LW ZRXOG EH RQO\ SROLWH to check out the calming spa and indulge in one of the amazing treatments that harness the power of plants. From £1,690pp for seven nights on a B&B basis, staying in a Canopy Deluxe room, incl. return international flights and transfers**, turquoiseholidays.co.uk
Tanjong Jara Resort
Tanjong Jara Resort
Immerse yourself in Malaysian FXOWXUH DW WKLV WUDGLWLRQDO \HW luxury resort on the golden shores of the east coast. During \RXU VWD\ \RX FDQ HPEDUN RQ an authentic cookery course ZLWK D FXOLQDU\ PDVWHU YLVLW the local market to pick up
The Datai Langkawi
THAILAND Ã&#x201C;
12h 30m
30
Novâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Mar
Paresa Resort Phuket
Home to some of Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best EHDFKHV 3KXNHW KDV XQGHQLDEOH EHDXW\ &KHFN LQ DW 3DUHVD 5HVRUW 3KXNHW IRU SDQRUDPLF YLHZV DFURVV WKH $QGDPDQ 6HD 2QFH
\RX·YH DEVRUEHG WKH DPD]LQJ YLHZV IURP \RXU RZQ RXWGRRU SRRO KHDG WR WKH VDQFWXDU\ of the spa for a zen afternoon. &RPH HYHQLQJ WLPH WDNH the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shuttle to the HQ .DPDOD %HDFK /RXQJH IRU D UHOD[HG GLQQHU FRFNWDLOV and soothing music on the beautiful shores. From
RQH RI D NLQG JLIWV DQG KHDG WR WKH RQ VLWH 6SD 9LOODJH IRU a coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Malay treatment ² FRPSOHWH ZLWK PDWFKLQJ keepsake sarongs. Choose one of its Anjung Seafront rooms to wake up to the sight and sound of the gently lapping ZDYHV ² EOLVV From £200pn, tanjongjararesort.com
The Peninsula Bangkok
£479pn, chicretreats.com Paresa Resort Phuket
The Peninsula Bangkok
The eclectic and fascinating FLW\ RI %DQJNRN LV LGHDO IRU couples seeking a culture trip ZLWK D GLIIHUHQFH 7KH 3HQLQVXOD %DQJNRN LV VHW DORQJVLGH WKH &KDR 3KUD\D 5LYHU ZLWK LPSUHVVLYH YLHZV DFURVV WKH urban landscape. Thai specialties include amazing spa treatments DQG IDEXORXV FXLVLQH DQG \RX
can enjoy both of these things DW WKLV OX[H KRWHO $IWHU \RX·YH KDG \RXU Ã&#x20AC;OO RI DXWKHQWLF IRRG DW RQH RI LWV PDQ\ HDWHULHV and experienced the wonder RI D 7KDL PDVVDJH KHDG WR WKH outdoor pool to soak up the city skyline for yourself. From 7,000THBpn (approx. £160pn), based on two sharing a Superior Room on a room-only basis, bangkok.peninsula.com youandyourwedding.co.uk 19
Asia
CAMBODIA Ă&#x201C;
12h 30m
30
Novâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May
Song Saa Private Island
Just off the coast of Cambodia lies this unbelievable private island resort that will truly blow you away. This place can only be described as sheer KHDYHQ ZLWK LWV GHJUHH ocean views, over-water restaurant and open-air spa. Spend your stay in a secluded jungle villa or opt for an extraspecial over-water villa, but make sure you venture outside your new home to experience a sunset cruise or a scuba diving session. From ÂŁ828pn, mrandmrssmith.com
Song Saa Private Island
The Reverie Saigon
Overlooking the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City below, this impressive resort occupies Ă RRUV ² RI WKH LFRQLF 7LPHV Square Building. Outside, WKH EXVWOLQJ VWUHHWV DUH Ă&#x20AC;OOHG with markets and street-food stalls and the sound of mopeds rushing around the roads. Yet inside, the hotel provides a
The Anam
VIETNAM Ă&#x201C;
13h 30m
30
Septâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Dec & Marâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
The Anam
Arriving at this beachside resort in the coastal city of Nha Trang will feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re rocking up in paradise. Think palm-lined shores, stunning villas and a beautiful secluded spa â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the perfect place for exploring the 20 youandyourwedding.co.uk
region or simply kicking back. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a foodie heaven, too, with endless options from all around the world. You can discover traditional Vietnamese delights such as pho, summer rolls and dumplings in the Lang Viet restaurant, as well as sampling GHOLFLRXV Ă&#x20AC;QH GLQLQJ PHDOV LQ The Colonial. From ÂŁ152pn for a Balcony Garden View Room, theanam.com
The Reverie Saigon
calm oasis of utter luxury. &KHFN LQ WR D URRP ZLWK Ă RRU to-ceiling windows to take advantage of that impressive skyline, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave without having a dip in the outdoor pool that has underwater music accompanied by a light show! From ÂŁ266pn for a Deluxe Room, incl. breakfast, complimentary wi-fi and minibar, thereveriesaigon.com
THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR A DREAM WEDDING # ) $/ *( . /* -*( ) Ńś # $' ) $. /# + -! / " / 2 4 !*- 2 $)".Ńľ # ( "$ *! /# &$)" *(Ńś $/. +-$./$) . ) -4Ńś . 1*0-4 $)$)" ) Ńś (*./ $(+*-/ )/'4Ńś 2 -(/# ) *) -) !*- /# 2 '' $)" ) # ++$) .. *! '' 2#* 1$.$/ # 1 ( # $' ) *) *! /# 2*-' Ň . (*./ +*+0' - ./$) /$*).Ńľ )/ - *Č&#x201A; -. .*( *! /# (*./ .+ / 0' - - .*-/. $) /# *0)/-4Ńľ . '0 *1 .0--*0) 4 '$Č&#x201A;. $) *0/# -) # $' ) Ńľ - ./*- Ńś 55 - - .*-/ /# / #*./ -*4 '/4 '*)" /# -*0/ *! /# ./ -) Đž -$ )/ ' 3+- ..Ńľ *( )/$ 1$'' . *) (0$ *- #0& /Ńľ ) *0- 3+ -$ ) 1 )/ / (. &)*2 #*2 /* #*./ #$"#á&#x2026;˘+-*áĽ&#x20AC;' 2 $)". ' -" ) $)/$( / Ńś $) **-. ) *0/ **-.Ńś 2$/# (0'/$ 0'/0- ' /- $/$*). $) '0 $)" ./ -)Ńś
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BOOK DIRECT FOR OUR BEST PRICE PROMISE
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centarahotelsresorts.com
ukreservation@chr.co.th
+44 14 7487 2727
You & Your Wedding promotion
A KINGDOM OF WONDERS Find your own slice of paradise in stunning Thailand, home to amazing adventures, rich culture and the most incredible beaches
T
hailand is the perfect choice for a honeymoon. It’s an eclectic, exciting country waiting to be explored – whether you want stunning beaches, the hustle and bustle of a city, peace and quiet off
the beaten track, or wonderful wildlife encounters. Known as the ‘land of smiles’, the warmth of the people here is legendary – but perhaps the real beauty of this fascinating place is its year-round appeal.
A tale of two cities
Summer stunners In the months of June, July and August, many travellers begin their adventures in the Gulf of Thailand, where there are islands big and small to discover. Ko Samui, Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second largest island, has everything from beachside bungalows to luxury resorts, and a brilliant selection of shops, restaurants and nightlife. Combine your visit with Ko Pha-ngan and discover the smaller islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s picturesque bays and unspoilt beauty. Ko Samui is a great place to relax â&#x20AC;&#x201C; although itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also renowned for hosting some of the liveliest beach parties in Asia! Alternatively, pair Ko Samui with Ko Tao, the perfect resort for snorkelling or diving, to see bull sharks, turtles and many other fascinating creatures of the deep.
Winter winners From November to March, head to Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s west coast. Phuket is a beach-loverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream, ZLWK Ă&#x20AC;QH ZKLWH VDQGV DQG glittering seas, as well as lively towns. Take in the bustling markets, eat in the many wonderful restaurants, and enjoy a spot of pampering at one of Phuketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high-end resorts and spas. Combine a stay in Phuket with the laid-back paradise \RX¡OO Ă&#x20AC;QG RQ WKH SLFWXUHVTXH Phi Phi islands. With few cars and even fewer inhabitants, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a world apart from its vibrant neighbour. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning scenery and relaxation you want, head to Krabi, where thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accommodation to suit any budget, and you can go island-hopping, sea-kayaking, jungle-trekking, or just soak up the sun on a stunning beach. Also explore the group of nine incredible islands known as the Simians, famous for rich diving VLWHV VSHFWDFXODU FRUDO Ă&#x20AC;HOGV and jungle-fringed beaches.
Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s incredible beaches are not to be missed, but if you really want to experience HYHU\WKLQJ WKLV PDJQLĂ&#x20AC;FHQW country has to offer, combine your coastal stay with a romantic trip to Bangkok and Chiang Mai for a truly extraordinary experience. Bangkok offers everything youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d expect from a capital city, fused with plenty of culture. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a wonderful place to sample everything from VWUHHW IRRG WR Ă&#x20AC;QH GLQLQJ LQ amazing rooftop restaurants, a traditional Thai massage experience, or shopping for RXWĂ&#x20AC;WV PDGH WR PHDVXUH Then discover the equally fascinating Chiang Mai â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a city with amazing markets and breathtaking temples around every corner. Visitors are drawn by the beauty of the mountains, traditional villages and an DEXQGDQFH RI Ă RUD DQG IDXQD
Fly Qatar Airways 7UDYHO ZLWK 4DWDU $LUZD\V DQG JHW \RXU KRQH\PRRQ RII WR D Ă \LQJ start. With supreme levels of service on board, delectable chef creations and up to 4,000 entertainment options, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll discover a whole new level of relaxation and hospitality in the sky. Flights depart regularly from six UK airports to Thailand, taking you to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Phuket and Pattaya â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re heading for a cultural adventure or beachedout bliss, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all within easy reach.
Plan your Thailand honeymoon with TrailďŹ nders on 020 7408 9004 or visit trailďŹ nders.com/thailand
THE CARIBBEAN Of course, this beautiful region has gorgeous beaches a-plenty, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so much more to discover about these islands in the sun
ANTIGUA Ã&#x201C;
13h 30m
30
Decâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
Blue Waters Resort & Spa This gorgeously luxe resort on the northern tip of Antigua delivers classic luxury as youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d expect it. The emphasis here LV Ã&#x20AC;UPO\ RQ UHOD[DWLRQ ZKHWKHU \RX ZDQW WR ORXQJH E\ WKH SRRO HQMR\ VXQVHW GULQNV DW WKH EHDFK VLGH EDU EDWKH LQ WKH EHDXWLIXO EHDFK FRYHV RU H[SHULHQFH a snorkelling session in the JORULRXV &DULEEHDQ 6HD $QG LI you need any further persuasion
WR YLVLW EHDXWLIXO %OXH :DWHUV also has a royal seal of approval â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Prince Harry has enjoyed a holiday here. From £1,950pp for seven nights in a Superior Hillside Room on an allinclusive basis, includes flights and transfers. Honeymooners receive a cake, champagne and chocolates, and a champagne breakfast on the first morning, turquoiseholidays.co.uk youandyourwedding.co.uk 25
The Caribbean
MARTINIQUE Ă&#x201C;
14h
Decâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May
30
French Coco
As the name of this boutique hotel suggests, a visit here provides an experience of Caribbean and French culture combined â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as a dĂŠpartement of France, Martinique offers a Gallic air. Set on the lush Caravelle Peninsula on the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning east coast,
French Coco is home to 17 gorgeous suites, set just 300 metres from the beach. The ambience here is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;barefoot luxuryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (so leave the shoes in your room), and your biggest decision at this escape hotel will be which rum aperitif to try before enjoying a Creoleinspired dinner. From â&#x201A;Ź290pn
Cap Maison
(approx. ÂŁ260) based on two people sharing on a bed and breakfast basis, hotelfrenchcoco.com
French Coco
ST LUCIA Ă&#x201C;
15h
30
Decâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Mar
Cap Maison
Set on the dramatic coastline, Cap Maisonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attractions arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t restricted to its glorious views over the sea. This hotel is a retreat from the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you come here for a true getaway. In addition to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;secret beachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on its doorstep, the food served at The Naked
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS Ă&#x201C;
15h
30
Novâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
Oil Nut Bay
This wonderfully inviting hotel is on Virgin Gorda, one of the main islands of the BVI. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surrounded by crystal-clear ZDWHUV DQG WKH Ă&#x20AC;UVW WKLQJ \RX¡OO want to do on arrival is jump right in. No one would stop you, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot more to do and see, including a spot of island-hopping, helicopter tours (particularly popular here, and the views from the skies have to be seen to be believed) and a sport called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pickleballâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, which youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll want to try for the name alone. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think about leaving here without enjoying a classic jerk chicken picnic on the beach for a quintessential BVI experience. From US$750 (approx. ÂŁ570) a night for the Cliff Suites, includes a private plunge pool, oilnutbay.com 26 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Oil Nut Bay
Fisherman on the sands has received excellent reviews. In the evening, treat yourselves to dinner on Rock Maison â&#x20AC;&#x201C; your champagne arrives down the cliff via zipline! From ÂŁ3,099pp (special offer) for seven nights all-inclusive, includes Virgin Atlantic flights from London Gatwick and transfers, a bottle of champagne on arrival and a bottle of champagne at Rock Maison, and a brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s massage, kuoni.co.uk
Ladera
JAMAICA Ó
12h
30
Dec–Mar
Sandals Montego Bay
Sandals is well-known for honeymoons and weddings, and its original resort is here in Montego Bay. The name alone makes you think of Jamaica’s white sands – and this resort
delivers with its own private beach. A ‘Luxury Included’ holiday here means you can get on with your total relaxation, and you can also have access to Sandals Inn and Sandals Royal Caribbean, both nearby – over 20 restaurants and 12 pools at your disposal. From £1,785pp for a seven-night stay in a Caribbean Deluxe Room on an all-inclusive basis, sandals.co.uk Sandals Montego Bay
Ladera
Set next to the breathtaking twin Piton mountains, you’re on top of the world here at Ladera, high up in a former cocoa plantation. Each of the 37 rooms and suites enjoys extraordinary views (if Instagram did hotels…), but there are plenty of reasons to
explore the island below. Mustdos include the ‘Fish Fridays’ street party further up the bay, and a half-day exploration of St Lucia’s rainforest. You can even have a mini island-hopping adventure to Martinique. From £2,200pp for seven nights, includes flights and transfers, scottdunn.com
Nisbet Plantation Beach Club
Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Dreams La Romana Resort & Spa
come here sooner. Everything is looked after for you, including superb food, drinks, plus enough activities to keep you occupied all day and night. Or you could just spend another hour by the pool – the choice is yours! From £1,099pp for seven
<RX·OO ÀQG \RXUVHOI LQ WRWDO vacation territory here – with everything catered for, this resort ensures that the only thing on your mind is wondering why you didn’t
nights staying in a Premium Deluxe Garden View Room on an all-inclusive basis, includes flights from London and 15% off accommodation & spa treatments, destinology.co.uk
Ó
12h
30
Dec–Feb
Dreams La Romana Resort & Spa
ST KITTS & NEVIS Ó
14h 30m
30
Jan–Dec
Nisbet Plantation Beach Club 5HÁHFWLQJ WKH &DULEEHDQ·V history, this resort is centred around an 18th-century plantation inn right on the beach. There’s so much to do here, from rainforest hikes and scuba diving to exploring
St Kitts on scooters (don’t worry, they drive on the left here) and the museums of neighbouring Nevis. Make sure you leave time to try some Kittitian specialities at the resort’s restaurants. From £1,425pp for seven nights in a Superior Room on a B&B basis, includes international flights and transfers, turquoiseholidays.co.uk youandyourwedding.co.uk 27
The Caribbean
GRENADA Ă&#x201C;
15h 30m
30
Janâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
Spice Island Beach Resort
They call Grenada the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;spice islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; due to the amount of fragrant nutmeg and mace grown here â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so what better name for this wonderful resort? Owned and operated by a Grenadan family, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll quickly feel right at home on Grand Anse beach, or in the frangipani-infused gardens. 7KH HPSKDVLV KHUH LV Ă&#x20AC;UPO\ on calypso and kicking back â&#x20AC;&#x201C; make sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the beach for the magical hour as the sun sets. From ÂŁ2,867pp for seven nights in an Oleander Superior Garden Suite on an all-inclusive basis, includes direct flights and transfers, kuoni.co.uk
Spice Island Beach Resort
BARBADOS
Belmond Cap Juluca
Ă&#x201C;
12h
30
Novâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
Treasure Beach
Barbadosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;platinum west coastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is the location of Treasure Beach â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and when you see the gloriously bright sands and beguiling azure sea, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never want to leave. Getting out on that water is highly recommended, and the hotel provides complimentary
ANGUILLA Ă&#x201C;
20h
30
Decâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Jan
Belmond Cap Juluca
Following refurbishment, this stunning beachside resort will be reopening in mid-November 2018 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the wait will be worth it. Resembling a huge Greek villa with Moorish LQĂ XHQFHV ERWK LQVLGH DQG RXW the accent here will be still very much on the Caribbean. 28 youandyourwedding.co.uk
If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re coming for the beach (and who isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t?), your chaise longues will be reserved as soon as you check in. As you also get on-the-sand service for drinks and food, the only time youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have to contemplate a move is when you might want WR WDNH WKDW Ă&#x20AC;UVW GLS LQWR WKH warm ocean â&#x20AC;&#x201C; bliss! From US$1,060pn (approx. ÂŁ800) in a Premium Beachfront King Room, includes champagne on arrival, a coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s massage and a beach dinner, belmond.com
Treasure Beach
activities including sailing and snorkelling â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even a water trampoline if you feel like having a go at something different. Sundowner Hour VKRXOG GHĂ&#x20AC;QLWHO\ EH RQ \RXU list â&#x20AC;&#x201C; savour the sunset and a cocktail before dinner. Heaven! From US$832 (approx. ÂŁ630) per room, including breakfast, price based on a minimum fivenight stay, eleganthotels.com/ treasure-beach
You & Your Wedding promotion
A COUNTRY OF CONTRASTS From chilling out on the beach to exploring the rainforest, everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s idea of paradise can be found in the diverse landscapes of the Dominican Republic
W
elcome to the Dominican Republic â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a perfect tropical paradise destination. Here, the people are as warm as the weather, the nightlife as exciting as the wildlife, and the landscape as diverse as the culture. With miles of breathtaking palm-lined beaches, every watersport under the sun and no end of opportunities to get close to nature, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an exciting place for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. And why limit yourself to one experience? In the Dominican Republic, you can get married in one of the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vibrant resorts and then escape to the coast for a blissed-out honeymoon. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for some action, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing more
exhilarating than cascading down a spectacular waterfall or zip-lining through the rainforest. Or perhaps youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take to the sea for a spot of NLWHVXUĂ&#x20AC;QJ ZKLWHZDWHU UDIWLQJ or snorkelling. Alternatively, take it down a notch with GHHS VHD Ă&#x20AC;VKLQJ RU D ZKDOH watching trip. Of course, if all you want to do is put your feet up and relax, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty of opportunity to do that too. :LWK Ă LJKWV IURP /RQGRQ Gatwick arriving three times a week, getting to the Dominican Republic has never been easier. And thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a range of accommodation options as diverse as the FRXQWU\ LWVHOI VR \RX¡OO Ă&#x20AC;QG something perfect, whatever your style and budget.
Find your personal paradise at godominicanrepublic.com
AFRICA The home of breathtaking scenery, endless adventure and extraordinary wildlife – whether on safari, in the jungle or by the ocean, an African holiday is awe-inspiring
BOTSWANA Ó
14h
30
May–Aug
Ngoma Safari Lodge Chobe National Park is known as the ‘land of the giants’, and at this lodge, on the edge of the park, guests often report seeing elephants – those giants – right outside their suites! Take advantage of twice-daily game drives to see buffalo, giraffes, zebras and many more stunning creatures in the wild. Add another dimension to your trip by experiencing the beauty
from the air with a helicopter ride over the Zambezi – an unforgettable experience. From £426pppn on a fully inclusive basis. Price includes meals, beverages, up to four activities per day, park fees, contribution to the Chobe Enclave Conservation Trust and return transfers from Kasane Airport or Kazungula, africaalbidatourism.com youandyourwedding.co.uk 31
Africa
MOZAMBIQUE Ă&#x201C;
15h
30
Janâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Feb & Junâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Oct
Azura Benguerra Island %XLOW E\ WKH ORFDO FRPPXQLW\ WKLV HFR IULHQGO\ SDUDGLVH LV DOO DERXW ODLG EDFN OX[XU\ (DFK RI LWV YLOODV LV QH[W WR XQVSRLOW VDQGV VR \RX FDQ HDVLO\ KHDG out to admire the gorgeous views â&#x20AC;&#x201C; if you can tear yourself DZD\ IURP \RXU SULYDWH LQĂ&#x20AC;QLW\ SRRO ,Q FDVH UHOD[LQJ EHDFKVLGH with a private butler on hand JHWV ERULQJ \RX FRXOG DOZD\V go on a guided lake drive to VSRW FURFRGLOHV RU JR LVODQG hopping on a speedboat. From US$695pppn (approx. ÂŁ531), based on two people sharing*, azura-retreats.com Azura Benguerra Island
Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort :KLOH WKH H[SHULHQFH RQ WKLV LG\OOLF SULYDWH LVODQG LV TXLWH different to the safari plains RQ WKH PDLQODQG WKHUH¡V MXVW as much adventure to be KDG LI \RX GHVLUH LQFOXGLQJ VFXED GLYLQJ ZKDOH ZDWFKLQJ wakeboarding and sailing. ,I URPDQFH DQG UHOD[DWLRQ DUH PRUH \RXU WKLQJ WKH FRQFLHUJH can organise a picnic for two RQ QHDUE\ 4XLVVDQJD ,VODQG RU \RX FDQ VSHQG D WUDQTXLO afternoon in the gorgeous spa. From £721pn, including fullboard dining, daily beverages including house spirits, in-room mini-bar and non-motorised watersports, anantara.com
Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort
32 youandyourwedding.co.uk
One&Only Cape Town
SOUTH AFRICA andBeyond Ă&#x201C;
11h 45m
30
Decâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
One&Only Cape Town
It might be the phenomenal views that draw you to this LQFUHGLEOH Ă&#x20AC;YH VWDU UHVRUW EXW LW¡OO EH WKH WRS TXDOLW\ FXLVLQH and amazing facilities that will make you fall in love with it. The iconic Nobu restaurant LV KHUH RU FKHFN RXW 5HXEHQ¡V IRU ORFDO Ă DYRXUV EHIRUH D SRVW dinner glass in the wine loft (featuring more than ERWWOHV 'RQ¡W WKLQN about leaving before youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve VSHQW WLPH LQ WKH XOWUD OX[H One&Only Spa â&#x20AC;&#x201C; surrounded E\ VHUHQH JDUGHQV LW LV SHUIHFW for indulging in couplesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; treatments. From ÂŁ539pn,
oneandonlyresorts.com
andBeyond Phinda Rock Lodge
Phinda Rock Lodge
(YHU\ ELW RI WKLV XQLTXH OX[XU\ lodge has been built with the stunning surroundings of .ZD=XOX 1DWDO LQ PLQG ZLWK LWV VL[ VWXQQLQJ FOLII VLGH VXLWHV delivering sweeping vistas of the luscious valley below. Out RQ \RXU SULYDWH YHUDQGD WDNH a dip in your private plunge pool or a shower under the stars. Fill your daytimes with H[FLWLQJ JDPH GULYHV DQG walking safaris â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you could even VHH WKH XOWUD UDUH EODFN UKLQR Spend the balmy evenings HQMR\LQJ FDQGOHOLW GLQQHUV RQ the rooftop terrace as the sun goes down. From ÂŁ580pppn, based on two sharing on an all-inclusive basis, including two safari activities per day and transfers, andbeyond.com
Bwindi Lodge
UGANDA Ă&#x201C;
11h
30
Junâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Sept
Bwindi Lodge $GYHQWXUH PHHWV WRWDO OX[XU\ at this resort in the heart of the Ugandan rainforest. You stay in one of eight bandas ² WUDGLWLRQDO VW\OH WKDWFKHG KRXVHV HDFK with butler service. The outdoor terrace is the perfect place to unwind after a day of gorilla tracking before dining with your fellow guests WR VKDUH \RXU DQLPDO VSRWV 7KH %ZLQGL %DU D VKRUW ZDON DZD\ LV LGHDO IRU D OXQFKWLPH snack or an evening nightcap. From £516pn all-inclusive. Flights with Ethiopian Airlines from £397pp, volcanoessafaris.com
Loisaba Star Beds
KENYA
ZIMBABWE
Ã&#x201C;
Ã&#x201C;
9h
30
Janâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Feb & Junâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Oct
From US$540pn (approx. £412) for a full-board stay**, includes standard alcoholic drinks, wine and fruit on arrival, one private dinner on the deck, two shared day game drives and one night drive in the Mara Naboisho Conservancy, one shared bush breakfast, return transfers to Ol Seki airstrip and government taxes. Conservancy fees apply, hemingways-collection.com
Aprâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Oct
Linkwasha Camp
Hemingways Ol Seki Mara
The Maasai Mara National 5HVHUYH LV NQRZQ DFURVV WKH ZRUOG DQG WKLV WHQWHG FDPS sits on its border. In addition to the safaris that attract YLVLWRUV WR WKH UHJLRQ \RX FDQ DOVR H[SORUH WKH VDYDQQDK RQ horseback. If you come here at WKH VWDUW RI WKH \HDU \RX FDQ witness the great migration RI ZLOGHEHHVW ]HEUDV DQG gazelles. When it comes to GLQLQJ WKHUH DUH QR UXOHV RU UHVWULFWLRQV ² VLPSO\ Ã&#x20AC;QG \RXU own secluded spot within the resort grounds at any time and the attentive staff will be on hand to prepare what you like.
14h
30
Loisaba Tented Camp & Loisaba Star Beds
Sleep under the stars at this romantic camp. The incredible outdoor Star Beds are perched RQ D ZRRGHQ YLHZLQJ SODWIRUP so you can soak up the savannah views at sunset and sunrise. $URXQG /RLVDED 7HQWHG &DPS \RXU GD\V FDQ EH VSHQW Ã&#x20AC;VKLQJ PRXQWDLQ ELNLQJ DQG LI \RX·UH IHHOLQJ SDUWLFXODUO\ DGYHQWXURXV you can camp overnight during D FDPHO VDIDUL WKH WUDGLWLRQDO mode of transport in the area.
Overlooking a popular watering KROH LQ +ZDQJH 1DWLRQDO 3DUN this camp may reward you with D JOLPSVH RI EXIIDOR JLUDIIHV RU elephants from the comfort of your own room. This remote KDYHQ LQFOXGHV QLQH WHQWV EXW WKH HPSKDVLV LV Ã&#x20AC;UPO\ RQ OX[XU\
inclusive, with three nights at Linkwasha Camp, three nights at Ruckomechi Camp, and flights from the UK, theluxurysafaricompany.com
Linkwasha Camp
From £3,195pp, including international flights, internal flights and transfers, one night of B&B accommodation in Nairobi, four nights at Loisaba Tented Camp, one night at Loisaba Star Beds, includes all meals, drinks and safaris, aardvarksafaris.co.uk
ZAMBIA Ã&#x201C;
14h 30m
30
Mayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Oct
The Royal Livingstone
Hemingways Ol Seki Mara
The Residence Zanzibar
TANZANIA Ã&#x201C;
*WITH THE HONEYMOON HEAVEN OFFER, BRIDES RECEIVE 40 PERCENT OFF RATES FOR STAYS OF FIVE NIGHTS OR MORE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AVAILABLE BETWEEN 7 JANUARY 2019 AND 15 DECEMBER 2019 **OFFER NOT VALID FOR AUGUST
with beautifully furnished accommodation and amenities including a pool and bar. Other activities on offer include a visit to a nearby YLOODJH WR H[SHULHQFH ORFDO culture. From £6,000pp all-
13h 30m
30
Decâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Mar & Junâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Oct
The Residence Zanzibar :LWK YLOODV KHFWDUHV RI WURSLFDO JDUGHQV VL[ VSD URRPV two restaurants and one mile RI SULVWLQH VDQGV WKLV UHVRUW adds up to one unforgettable KRQH\PRRQ ORFDWLRQ ZLWK WKH HPSKDVLV Ã&#x20AC;UPO\ RQ UHOD[DWLRQ Chill out by the ocean with a complimentary ice cream or IUXLW VNHZHU EHIRUH \RX GHFLGH ZKHWKHU WR H[SORUH WKH LVODQG by land or sea â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you can take to the gardens on a bicycle or go diving with the local dolphin population. From US$558pn (approx. £426) on a half-board basis, including taxes and fees, cenizaro.com
If the Victoria Falls is on your EXFNHW OLVW WKHQ FKHFNLQJ LQ WR WKLV Ã&#x20AC;YH VWDU UHVRUW LV D ZLVH decision. With direct access to WKH ZRUOG IDPRXV ZDWHUIDOO IURP WKH UHVRUW \RX KDYH XQOLPLWHG DFFHVV WR WKH VLJKWV VRXQGV and spray. Your breakfast guests here will probably include a few ]HEUDV ZKR JUD]H RQ WKH ODZQV RXWVLGH WKH FRORQLDO VW\OH YLOODV ULJKW QH[W WR WKH =DPEH]L )RU GLQQHU ZLWK D GLIIHUHQFH ERDUG WKH 5R\DO /LYLQJVWRQH ([SUHVV an ornately decorated steam WUDLQ IRU D VL[ FRXUVH PHDO RQ the move. From £454pn, for a Deluxe Room, on a B&B basis, anantara.com
The Royal Livingstone
youandyourwedding.co.uk 33
You & Your Wedding promotion
THE ROYAL TREATMENT Experience luxury like no other in a picture-perfect setting at Sandalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; newest Caribbean resort
Y
our honeymoon is something you really want to get right. It's the once-in-a-lifetime experience you both want to FKHULVK IRUHYHU DQG WKHUH·V QR better place to enjoy it than at Sandalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; brand-new resort on the southern coast of Barbados. Sandals Royal Barbados lies on the pristine sands of Maxwell %HDFK DQG LV FRPSULVHG RI VXLWHV LQFOXGLQJ 6DQGDOV· signature accomodation such DV WKH PDJQLÃ&#x20AC;FHQW 6N\SRRO 6XLWHV 6ZLP XS 6XLWHV DQG Millionaire Suites. Sandals Royal Barbados boasts multiple
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SOXV WKUHH ZKLUOSRROV 6DQGDOV· signature Red Lane® 6SD DQG D Ã&#x20AC;WQHVV FHQWUH During your time at Sandals Royal Barbados you can enjoy ¶6WD\ DW 2QH 3OD\ DW 7ZR· exchange privileges with the QHLJKERXULQJ 6DQGDOV %DUEDGRV giving you access to even more HQWHUWDLQPHQW DQ DGGLWLRQDO 11 dining options and endless UHOD[DWLRQ $V QHZO\ZHGV \RX·OO also be treated to exclusive KRQH\PRRQ H[WUDV ZLWK D ERWWOH RI VSDUNOLQJ ZLQH RQ DUULYDO D little something special on your Ã&#x20AC;UVW HYHQLQJ DQG EUHDNIDVW LQ bed on a morning of your choice.
In the lap of luxury Sandals Royal Barbados is home to extra-special suites that couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be more perfect for honeymooners. The Beachfront One Bedroom Skypool Butler Suite features the ultimate in luxury. Think a king-size bed with direct access to a SULYDWH LQÃ&#x20AC;QLW\ 6N\SRRO SOXV D stylish relaxation area leading WR D EDOFRQ\ ZKHUH \RX·OO Ã&#x20AC;QG a Tranquility Soaking Tubâ&#x201E;¢ for two. These ultra-romantic suites also have personal butler
VHUYLFH 9,3 FKHFN LQ 24-hour room service and private Rolls Royce transfers. The South Seas Swim-up Club Level Ultra Suites offer private access to a Crystal Lagoon pool. The spacious interiors feature plush IXUQLVKLQJV D NLQJ VL]H EHG +' 79 DQG IXOO\ VWRFNHG EDU SOXV D VSD VW\OH HQ VXLWH bathroom complete with a dualcontrol walk-in rain shower. What more could you want?
Book your dream honeymoon now at sandals.co.uk
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NORTH AMERICA Whether you want a beach escape, a wilderness adventure or a chic city getaway, this vast continent has something for every kind of couple
COLORADO Ó
10h
30
Year-round
*MAY–OCTOBER
Taylor River Lodge For an escape that blends back-to-nature activities and pure honeymoon indulgence, stunning Taylor River Lodge in Almont is hard to beat. Set deep in a canyon, it’s the perfect location for everything from riverside picnics and toasted marshmallows under the stars to hiking and kayaking, with professional guides to help you
make the most of your stay. The eight luxury cabins are impeccably designed, while the spa – complete with mountain views – is the ultimate spot for relaxation. From $1,670pn* (approx. £1,250), for two sharing on a full-board basis, includes full guide service and roundtrip transfers from Gunnison Airport, elevenexperience.com youandyourwedding.co.uk 37
North America Scarp Ridge Lodge Colorado is the place to go for an adventure in the great outdoors. This luxury lodge makes the most of its location in the scenic mountain town of Crested Butte, with outdoor pursuits to suit every time of year. In ski season, a customdesigned snowcat whisks guests away to the very best powder, and there are two on-mountain lodges should you need a break. In the warmer months, activities include mountain biking and whitewater UDIWLQJ $OO \HDU URXQG HQMR\ Ă&#x20AC;QH dining from the lodgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private chef and relax in the rooftop tub. From US$650 (approx. ÂŁ490) pn*, based on two people sharing, including breakfast, organic fresh food minibar, and round-trip transfers from Gunnison Airport, elevenexperience.com
Scarp Ridge Lodge
NEW YORK
CANADA
Ă&#x201C;
Ă&#x201C;
7h 30m
30
Year-round
mrandmrssmith.com 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
The St Regis New York
The St Regis New York
This historic Manhattan hotel is all about classic New York glamour â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with butler service that is renowned for attention to detail. The style is opulent and inviting â&#x20AC;&#x201C; think crystal chandeliers, marble bathrooms, silk wall coverings and rich hues throughout. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the iconic King Cole Bar, whose patrons have included Salvador DalĂ and Marilyn Monroe, and where the Bloody Mary was Ă&#x20AC;UVW LQYHQWHG ,W¡V DOVR KRPH WR Table 55, where you can book an exclusive private dining experience. The location is ideal for a sophisticated stay, with the world-famous shops of Fifth Avenue and the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading museums and galleries within walking distance. From US$995pn (approx. ÂŁ750), stregisnewyork.com
38 youandyourwedding.co.uk
30
Junâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Sept & Decâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Feb
Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to imagine a more of-the-moment place to stay in the city that never sleeps. Brooklyn is home to New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hottest neighbourhoods, all of which are within easy reach of the hotel, while the views of the river and iconic skyline are second to none. Much of the impeccably cool interior dĂŠcor was created from reclaimed materials, and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a commitment to sustainability throughout. And then there are those hip-hotel essentials: a rooftop pool, plus a soughtafter weekend brunch, and, of course, a yoga class residency by one of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading studios. From ÂŁ259pn,
10h
The nine cabins that make up this tranquil resort are, quite simply, honeymoon perfection. Think spacious living areas, bewitching views and thoughtful touches. 2XWVLGH \RX¡OO Ă&#x20AC;QG \RXUVHOI in verdant forest, with a host of activities designed to make the most of the setting, including whale and bear watching. For something extra special, you can even book a helicopter adventure to take LQ WKH PDJQLĂ&#x20AC;FHQW WHUUDLQ IURP above. From CA$1,950 (approx. ÂŁ1,140) pppn, for the all-inclusive package**, nimmobay.com
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
This luxury resort in Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jasper National Park has everything you need for newlywed indulgence, with an amazing spa, outdoor pool and several renowned restaurants. And its location means there are plenty of outdoor activities to set your pulses racing. From ÂŁ4,800pp for a 13-night trip to Canada incl. two nights at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, scottdunn.com Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort
HAWAII Ó
20h
30
Apr–Oct
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
The Restoration
SOUTH CAROLINA Ó
9h 30m
30
Mar–May & Sept–Nov
The Restoration This hotel perfectly embodies the appeal of the city of Charleston: old-world charm with a 21st-century update. The accommodation consists
of stunning suites of varying sizes, all decorated in the urban-cool style that runs throughout. Each suite features luxe touches including the use of a personal iPad and Beekman 1802 toiletries. And there’s a roof terrace that’s ideal for relaxing with cocktails. From
This beachfront beauty is just moments from Maui’s idyllic Mokapu Beach. Once you’ve KDG \RXU ÀOO RI ZDWHUVSRUWV RU simply snoozing on the sand, you can return to the resort for treatments in the ocean-view
spa, culinary delights at the four on-site restaurants and cocktails at Lehua Lounge, surrounded by waterfalls. Rooms come with private balconies, but to really live the luxe life, upgrade to a villa with private plunge pool. From £2,349pp*** for seven nights, room only, including return flights from London Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic, Delta and Hawaiian Airlines, hayesandjarvis.co.uk
US$299pn (approx. £230), therestorationhotel.com
*MAY–OCTOBER.**PACKAGE INCLUDES ACCOMMODATION, THREE MEALS PER DAY, ALCOHOL, USE OF RESORT AMENITIES, AS WELL AS ACTIVITIES SUCH AS WHALE-WATCHING, BEAR VIEWING AND BOAT TOURS. *** BASED ON DEPARTURES ON 11 MARCH 2019
The Restoration
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
LOUISIANA Ó
9h 50m
30
Feb–May & Sep–Nov
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
CALIFORNIA Ó
11h 30m
30
Mar–Oct
Carneros Inn
Napa Valley is a must-visit for wine and nature lovers alike. This stunning resort is the perfect base for your newlywed adventure in wine country, with an adults-only pool and a newly renovated spa. The contemporary-cool cottages and suites come with their own patios and gardens – ideal if privacy is a priority. From £795pp for three nights, turquoiseholidays.co.uk
Carneros Inn
Ventana Big Sur – An Alila Resort
Looking for blissful relaxation? This is the place. Lose yourself in nature at this beautiful resort, with its tranquil setting among redwood forest with YLHZV RI WKH 3DFLÀF FRDVWOLQH You can watch birds of prey IURP WKH LQÀQLW\ SRRO DQG even spot grey whales over breakfast at the right time of year. For a particularly romantic experience, soak under the stars in the Japanese hot baths. To help you properly unwind, there are daily complimentary yoga classes, guided walks and wine and cheese tastings, and a wonderful spa. From £2,830pp for a tailormade self-drive trip incl. flights from the UK to San Francisco, car hire, three nights’ accommodation in San Francisco and four nights’ at Ventana Big Sur – An Alila Resort, wexas.com
Ocean House
RHODE ISLAND Ó
7h
30
Jun–Aug & Sep–Nov
Ocean House For a seaside getaway with a real sense of style, Ocean House is a wonderful choice. Everything from the glorious coastal scenery to the turnof-the-century décor is quintessentially New England. Dinner at Coast restaurant is a must, and in summer you can enjoy a barbecue on the private beach or a drink in the secret champagne garden. For an extra-luxe experience on the golden sands, book one of the private cabanas and enjoy valet service as you soak up the sun.
The location of this grand hotel alone makes it an excellent choice: it sits right in the centre of the French Quarter of New Orleans, the oldest part of the city, with its must-visit sights, and vibrant dining scene and nightlife. Cocktails at Bourbon O are the perfect prelude to an evening in The Big Easy. From £2,930pp for two sharing on a 14-day Discovering The Deep South tour, includes three nights in New Orleans at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel audleytravel.com/usa Bourbon Orleans Hotel
From US$400pn (approx. £300)
Sed quodit, nones et B&B, oceanhouseri.com
youandyourwedding.co.uk 39
T H E WO R L D ' S O N LY
Luxury Included
®
HONEYMOON
Sandals offers all the luxuries of a 5-star resort with so much more, because here, the best of everything is included. Every land and water sport. Exclusive 5-Star Global Gourmet™ dining at up to 16 restaurants per resort, and endless pours of premium spirits and Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks wines. Our resorts are set on the Caribbean’s best beaches, and our rooms & suites are some of the most romantic in the world. These are just some of the reasons Sandals has been voted the World’s Leading AllInclusive Resorts 22 years in a row, and the perfect choice for your dream honeymoon.
VOT E D T H E WO R L D ’ S L E A D I N G A L L- I N C L U S I V E R E S O R T S
LUXURY INCLUDED
22
Y E A R S I N A R OW AT T H E WO R L D T R AV E L AWA R D S
®
Sandals has the grandest of pools, most spectacular beaches, extraordinary amenities, and sumptuously appointed accommodation. But it’s the unrivaled 5-star service provided by our staff that keeps our guests coming back time after time.
UP TO
MASTERS OF EXCELLE NCE IN THE CULINAR Y ARTS
THE MOST EXCLUSIVE SUITES Our 5-star accommodation, called Love Nest Suites®, are ranked among the finest and most romantic in the world. From Over-the-Water Villas to Millionaire Suites, enjoy luxurious amenities, private plunge pools and world-class oncierge and butler service.
16
GOURMET RESTAURANTS
PER RESORT. ALL INCLUDED. ALL UNLIMITED. Enjoy unlimited dining at up to 16 restaurants! From freshly rolled sushi at Soy, to Filet Mignon steak cooked to perfection at Butch’s Chophouse, we serve cuisine to please even the toughest foodie! You can enjoy unlimited premium brand drinks at up to 12 bars per resort. From cocktails at the swim-up pool bar to a glass of fizz on a rooftop bar overlooking the Caribbean sunset, it’s all included in the price of your honeymoon.
LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
CALL 0800 742 742 • VISIT SANDALS.CO.UK COME IN STORE - LONDON, SW3 6RT SEE YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT
MORE QUALITY LAND & WATER SPORTS THAN ANY OTHER RESORTS IN THE CARIBBEAN
@SandalsResortsUK
@Sandals_UK
*Mandatory caddies or carts at cost. ^Cost includes two free dives per day for certified divers . Additional T&Cs may apply.
From championship golf* to motorised water sports like waterskiing and scuba diving^, only Sandals includes more quality land and water sports than any other resorts in the Caribbean. It’s all included, all unlimited!
SOUTH PACIFIC A world of luxury awaits on the other side of the globe – paradise is everywhere, from the clearest waves to the softest of sand
FIJI Ó
24h 30m
30
Apr–Oct
Six Senses Fiji Arriving by speedboat, you’ll immediately know you’re in for something special at this idyllic resort on Malolo Island, off the west coast of Fiji itself. Powder-soft sand and aquamarine waters provide a warm welcome, and home will be one of the 24 beautifully crafted one-bedroom villas dotted along the beach. The resort is committed to self-
sustainability, including the use of solar power, and is also involved in efforts to preserve coral reefs (you can help to plant more). Be sure to join a cultural event to try the local drink called yaqona. From £3,395ppn for seven nights in a Hideaway Pool Villa on a B&B basis, includes return international flights and transfers, turquoiseholidays.co.uk youandyourwedding.co.uk 41
South PaciďŹ c Lizard Island
AUSTRALIA Ă&#x201C; Likuliku Lagoon Resort
Likuliku Lagoon Resort
Likuliku means â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;calm watersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, and this really is a tranquil place to honeymoon. The resort has been designed to evoke a traditional Fijian village, complete with thatched roofs and a crystalline lake at the
heart of the island. Nestled among lush green hillsides is the Tatadra Spa, where guests can chill out. A recent addition to the resort is nearby Mociu, a private island where you can enjoy a sunrise breakfast picnic. From ÂŁ719pn, including all meals, mrandmrssmith.com
24-30h
30
Septâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May
Lizard Island
If exploring the Great Barrier Reef has always been on your bucket list, this is the hotel for you. As the northernmost resort by the Reef, it offers the utmost seclusion that you dream of on your honeymoon. There are just 40 rooms here, which means
more space on the 24 private beaches for you and your partner to retreat to. The crisp, white interiors of the villas DUH SKRWR SHUIHFW DJDLQVW WKH OXVFLRXV OHDI\ EDOPV DQG D]XUH waters. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ever want to leave! From ÂŁ5,880pp for seven nights in an Oceanview Villa on all-inclusive basis. Includes return international flights and transfers, turquoiseholidays.co.uk
Southern Ocean Lodge
COOK ISLANDS Ă&#x201C;
32h 30m
30
Marâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr & Septâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Oct
PaciďŹ c Resort Aitutaki
Set over 19 acres of tropical gardens that bring to mind Eden, this resort is what dreams are made of. Each of the 27 beachfront hideaways are mere steps from the inviting
ocean, and offer maximum VHFOXVLRQ IRU URPDQFH VHHNLQJ honeymooners. You can partake LQ D UDQJH RI RQ WKH ZDWHU activities if you feel like it, or simply indulge in a relaxing treatment in the spa. This LV LVODQG OLIH DW LWV Ă&#x20AC;QHVW From NZ$1,170pn (approx. ÂŁ600), includes round-trip airport-resort coach transfers, pacificresort.com/aitutaki
Southern Ocean Lodge
PaciďŹ c Resort Aitutaki
42 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Lovers of wildlife and nature will fall head over heels for this South Australian lodge on Kangaroo Island. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home to spectacular scenery and a whole host of native species including koalas and (of course) kangaroos. The lodge is set back from a cliff and
KRXVHV ODYLVK NLQJ VL]H EHGV JODVV ZDOOHG EDWKURRPV DQG VXQ VRDNHG RXWGRRU WHUUDFHV perfect for taking in the ocean views and keeping an eye out for friendly critters. From ÂŁ5,100pp for a five-night, fullboard stay for two, return international and domestic flights and private transfers, scottdunn.com
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
FRENCH POLYNESIA Ă&#x201C;
28h
30
Junâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Aug & Decâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Jan
Manava Beach Resort & Spa
Soak up the sun in your own personal paradise at this WUDGLWLRQDO 3RO\QHVLDQ VW\OH resort, set between a divine
view of majestic mountains on one side, and the stunning 3DFLĂ&#x20AC;F 2FHDQ RQ WKH RWKHU For adventure, explore nearby Cookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bay and the Gulf of Moorea before heading back WR \RXU %HDFK RU 2YHUZDWHU Bungalow, complete with personal terrace, to watch the sun draw low in the sky. From â&#x201A;Ź335pn (approx. ÂŁ300), manavamoorearesort.com
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Manava Beach Resort & Spa
NEW ZEALAND Ă&#x201C;
24-35h
30
Nothing says honeymoon quite like an overwater villa with the ocean lapping gently underneath â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and this resort is home to some of the most breathtaking weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever seen. 7KLQN GHHS EDWKWXEV Ă RRU WR ceiling windows and the choice
EHWZHHQ D GLS LQ FU\VWDO FOHDU waters or a swim in your private pool. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an abundance of activities on offer, including MHW VNLLQJ DQG VQRUNHOOLQJ From US$633pn (approx. ÂŁ480) for a King Lagoon View Suite, and from US$877pn (approx. (ÂŁ670) for a King Overwater Villa, conradhotels3.hilton.com
Blanket Bay Lodge
Marâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Aug
Blanket Bay Lodge Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu on the South Island, this is the perfect sanctuary IRU D SRVW ZHGGLQJ HVFDSH ² \RX¡OO PDUYHO DW WKH VQRZ capped peaks and sheer remoteness of the place. Airy high ceilings and plush furniture make the space the dream place to relax after a day of cycling around the local tracks or even a VSRW RI KHOL VNLLQJ RQ WKH nearby glacier. From £793pn,
Escapade Ă&#x17D;lot MaĂŽtre
NEW CALEDONIA Ă&#x201C;
30
Novâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
Escapade Ă&#x17D;lot MaĂŽtre
number of large vineyards, all within close proximity of each other, all waiting to be discovered! Try one of The Boatshedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Picnic Trucks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; compact jeeps that are perfect for daytrips, with a hamper in the back to keep you fuelled up. From ÂŁ250pppn, includes
Escape to an island paradise just 20 minutes by boat from New Caledoniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital, NoumĂŠa. This resort is surrounded by a marine reserve, promising a stay like no other â&#x20AC;&#x201C; imagine watching a golden sunset from the comfort of your private terrace, with steps leading into the peaceful lagoon. For WKULOO VHHNLQJ KRQH\PRRQHUV DFWLYLWLHV LQFOXGLQJ D NLWH VXUI school and helicopter rides are available. From â&#x201A;Ź460pn (approx.
breakfast and transfers from the local ferry terminal, trailfinders.com
ÂŁ410), includes return transfers, buffet breakfast and dinner, glphotels.nc/escapade-ilot-maitre
includes breakfast and dinner, kuoni.co.uk The Boatshed
27h
The Boatshed Get away from it all at this charming lodge, perched atop a hillside overlooking white sandy beaches and unrivalled ocean views on Waiheke Island, due HDVW RI $XFNODQG ,W KDV Ă&#x20AC;YH guest suites and two bungalows â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so your privacy is pretty much certain. If you can tear yourself away from the comfort of your room, Waiheke is home to a
youandyourwedding.co.uk 43
Pack your bag
HONEYMOON
Red maxi dress, £555, Kalita at Matchesfashion.com
Suede wedges, £80, Toms
Patterned shirt, £116, Fabienne Chapot at House of Fraser
Sun earrings, £130, Soru Jewellery
Embroidered bikini, £270, Anjuna at Net-a-Porter
Silk kaftan, £225, Lindsey Brown
Circle necklace, £125, Pandora
Striped bag, £139, Radley London
Tinted sunglasses, £95, Ray-Ban
Floral cami, £19.50, and shorts, £17.50, B by Ted Baker
Snake print sliders, £89, Carvela
Floral jumpsuit, £46, Lipsy
44 youandyourwedding.co.uk
HOTLIST
From balmy evenings to poolside cocktails, prepare for the holiday of a lifetime with a suitcase full of stylish buys
Summer hat, £27, & Other Stories
Embellished dress, £85, Miss Selfridge
Heart sunglasses, £17.99, Mango
Feather earrings, £95, Nocturne
Rainbow heels, £149, Revolve
Straw bag, £225, Made by Wave
Red swimsuit, £70, K-Way
Turban headband, £7.99, Zara
Polka dot swimsuit, £70, NYOS
Drop necklace, £189, Karl Lagerfeld
Clutch bag, £145, Lola Rose
Printed trousers, £80, Biba at House of Fraser youandyourwedding.co.uk 45
You & Your Wedding promotion
THE GOLDEN HONEYMOON RULES The travel experts at the Turquoise Holiday Company share their nine top tips for planning a honeymoon
4
When you're there, don't hesitate to tell everyone you’re on honeymoon – you only get one! Your designated Turquoise travel specialist will arrange for the VIP treatment everywhere you go, but hoteliers, restaurateurs and locals love honeymooners too, so shout about it from the rooftops!
5
Book with a company that cares and will go the extra mile for you. It’s the little details, add-ons and honest advice that turn a good honeymoon into an unforgettable one.
1
Don’t cram your itinerary or book too many activities in advance. Your honeymoon is for relaxing and spending quality time together, not rushing around, constantly packing and unpacking.
2
Consider ‘secret’ shoulder seasons if your budget is tight. Pre- and post-peak season months are always more affordable, while the weather is often good and there are far fewer people.
6
3
Most airlines allow you to upgrade on one leg of your journey, so don’t worry about splashing out on return business-class flights if you can’t afford to. Just choose the one you’d prefer, and start or finish your honeymoon in style.
Always book the best room in a more affordable hotel rather than the cheapest room in an overpriced hotel. You deserve to live like royalty on your honeymoon!
7
Prioritise planning your honeymoon as much as the wedding itself. Flights go on sale 11 months in advance, and the best deals usually get booked up quickly. Leave it to the last minute and you might find your dream hotel is full.
8
Check the weather! It even rains in paradise sometimes, so speak to a travel expert before booking. If you have a dream honeymoon destination, be prepared to wait and go at the best time of year. You definitely won't forget it.
9
If you plan to change your passport to show your new married name, don’t forget to tell the travel company before you book your flights. If you don’t, you’ll have to pay to change the name on your ticket later on. If you forget to mention it to anyone before you get to the airport, you might be turned away.
To find out more and book the honeymoon of your dreams, call 01494 678400 or visit turquoiseholidays.co.uk
LATIN AMERICA Rugged landscapes, luscious rainforests and a tropical climate – this region is brimming with beauty and adventure in equal measure
CHILE Ó
23h
30
Nov–Mar
Tierra Atacama In the middle of the Atacama Desert, this is the ultimate getaway, offering complete seclusion for newlyweds looking to escape. If you’re keen on a jam-packed itinerary, book in for horse riding, hiking and stargazing with a huge telescope (imagine how clear the skies are). When you’re ready to seek some chill time, laze by the LQÀQLW\ SRRO DW WKH VSD RU WDNH
advantage of your own private terrace. If you’re looking for something totally different, \RX·OO ÀQG LW KHUH From £4,080pp for five nights fullboard for two people, includes international and domestic flights with British Airways, transfers, full use of the hotel facilities and two half-day or one full-day excursion per day, theluxuryholidaycompany.com youandyourwedding.co.uk 47
andBeyond Vira Vira
Latin America andBeyond Vira Vira At this riverside resort in Chile’s lake district, the community and environment are cared about almost as much as the guests. You’ll notice a ‘farm to table’ concept on the restaurant menu, and you have the chance, among other activities, to explore the local Mapuche culture. They don’t do off-the-shelf packages here – each day, you have the chance to create your own adventures
with the excursions manager, so you can embark on whitewater rafting or trekking whenever you want to have a go. And if you want to up the adventure even more, make a dramatic entrance by arriving at the hotel via helicopter! From £3,740pp for five nights on an all-inclusive basis, including international flights with British Airways, domestic flights, transfers and guided excursions, theluxuryholidaycompany.com
Llao Llao Resort, Golf & Spa
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge
PERU Ó
18h
30
Mar–May & Sept–Nov
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge
This is the only resort right at the entrance of the iconic Machu Picchu, and you’ll need to pinch yourself every time you look out over the unbelievably spectacular views. The prime location means you’ll beat the crowds when it comes to that must-do tour of the site itself. Stop off at the Tampu Restaurant for a Peruvian or international-style light lunch or indulgent dinner, while the fabulous Tampu Bar is ideal for an early morning coffee or a late-night cocktail. From £950pn for a double room on a full-board basis, belmond.com Belmond Sanctuary Lodge
48 youandyourwedding.co.uk
La Estancia de Cafayate at Grace Cafayate
ARGENTINA Ó
25h
30
Mar–May
Grace Cafayate ,I DQ RII JULG KRQH\PRRQ ÀOOHG ZLWK ÀQH GLQLQJ DQG OX[XULRXV wines takes your fancy, then look no further than this boutique hotel in the Calchaquí Valleys. It’s also home to the sporting estate of La Estancia
de Cafayate, with its golf course, polo club, sports centre, indoor pool and squash courts, should you want to get active. Or venture out on horseback to relish the dusky rock landscape for yourself. For a more sedate outing, take the chance to explore the vineyards – and taste the produce, of course. From £175pn, gracehotels.com
Take a deep breath and enjoy WKH PRXQWDLQ DLU IURP WKLV ÀYH star resort’s tranquil gardens in Patagonia, the perfect setting to enjoy afternoon tea. It’s surrounded by lakes, so it would be hard not to cool off in the waters at some point during your stay. On Llao Llao’s activity list, there’s canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, among many other options. Back indoors, there are superb dining opportunities, with wonderful views of this unforgettable location. From $US434pn (approx. £330) for the honeymoon package (a four-night minimum stay), includes welcome gifts, buffet breakfast, recreational activities, one three-course dinner, two massages, discounts on spa and restaurants, llaollao.com Llao Llao Resort, Golf & Spa
MEXICO Ó
13-17h
30
One&Only Palmilla
July–Aug
One&Only Palmilla
Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
COSTA RICA Ó
18h
30
Dec–Apr
Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort On the sun-drenched shores of Costa Rica lies this unique paradise. Not only can you GLS \RXU WRHV LQ WKH 3DFLÀF Ocean, and admire the beauty of the palm-lined beach, you can spot sleeping sloths and relaxing iguanas right from your sunlounger. See even more wildlife at the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can also try zip-lining, rafting and waterfall abseiling. From £2,025pp for seven nights, based on two people sharing, includes breakfast, return flights, private transfers and airport lounge access, caribtours.co.uk
*ONE-ROOM BOOKINGS CAN ONLY BE MADE 75 DAYS IN ADVANCE, DEPENDENT ON AVAILABILITY
Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
Head to this west-coast hot spot for a generous helping of sun, sea and sand in the most luxurious of settings. We can’t decide what’s more beautiful – the stunning views across the glistening Sea of Cortez, or the impeccably designed interiors. Luckily, you’ll be able to enjoy both at the same time, as all rooms have a glorious sea view. The new steakhouse is headed up by a Michelin-starred chef, and there’s also a sushi bar and beach grill, so you’ll be in foodie heaven whatever you decide to eat. From £818pn, oneandonlyresorts.com One&Only Palmilla
Tulum Treehouse
Not your usual holiday resort, this secluded haven upon the edge of the Mexican jungle, down the coast from Cancún, is ideal for honeymooners looking for something a little different. This ultra-cool, design-led KRWHO RI MXVW ÀYH URRPV LV a secret hideaway, nestled among the greenery. Relaxing hammocks on the terrace and outdoor showers encourage you to enjoy as much of the great
outdoors as possible. The place is entirely solar-powered, and the gorgeously minimal rooms are kitted out with furnishings by local artisans to give it a very cool, contemporary edge. From US$245pn (approx. £185) for a room*, includes concierge, daily housekeeping and continental breakfast. Tulum Treehouse is also available for exclusiveuse hire, designhotels.com/ tulum-treehouse
BRAZIL Ó
12h
30
Apr–Oct
Fasano Angra dos Reis Perfectly positioned on the Costa Verde coast with a backdrop of forest-draped hills, the glorious setting will only be surpassed by your experience at the hotel itself. This family-owned resort is all about creating a home-fromhome feel. Enjoy evening Fasano Angra dos Reis
Tulum Treehouse
meals served on your own private balcony, from a menu that includes superb fresh seafood. The historic town of Paraty is worth adding to your must-see list, while Rio de Janeiro lies in the other direction. The nearby reefs can be explored with a guided diving tour. From £1,164pp for a three-night stay, includes breakfast, return airport transfers and one excursion, journeylatinamerica.co.uk youandyourwedding.co.uk 49
As the UK's No.1 specialist in travel to Latin America, we've been creating award-winning holidays to every corner of the region for over 38 years. Trust in our experience to create yours. Fall in love with Latin America on your honeymoon with the specialists.
Speak to an expert on 0203 811 7570 or start your journey at journeylatinamerica.co.uk
Torres del Paine, Patagonia 4.9 / 5 Service Rating
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE “SITTING AND WATCHING THE WORLD GO BY WAS THE PERFECT WAY TO START MARRIED LIFE” John Taylor
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As the first hotel company in Mauritius, Beachcomber Hotels had the first pick of the most stunning locations and the best of the beaches when choosing to place its hotels. We now have a choice of eight individual and exceptional hotels on the island, all located right on the beach.
We’ve got everything from indulgent luxury to superb all inclusive options. For honeymooners all of our resorts offer a range of superb honeymoon discounts and treats for you when you arrive. And if you are looking to get married abroad all of our hotels guarantee just one wedding a day.
Fly Air Mauritius and arrive on holiday relaxed and refreshed. Enjoy the friendly, welcoming onboard Mauritian hospitality, take advantage of the excellent in-flight facilities and for a treat upgrade to the superb Business Class and settle in to your own spacious lie-flat cocoon seat.
For the very best Mauritius Weddings and Honeymoons call Beachcomber on 01483 445 638
www.beachcombertours.co.uk
MIDDLE EAST & NORTH AFRICA From glitz and glamour to scenery and culture, these unique regions have it all!
MOROCCO Ó
3h 30m
30
Apr–Oct & Sept–Oct
Kasbah Tamadot Away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, this picturesque luxe retreat in the breathtaking Atlas Mountains is perfect for couples who want a relaxation honeymoon. For a magical Moroccan experience, the Asounfou Spa’s hammam treatment, with its black soap cleansing, will leave you feeling revived and energised. Other
things to do include cookery classes, local walks and scenic drives – but it’s up to you how much or how little you want to do! From £2,135 for a three-night stay on the Romantic Getaways package, including dinner and breakfast, one private dining experience, spa treatments and a bottle of champagne on arrival, virginlimitededition.com youandyourwedding.co.uk 53
Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;HĂ´tel Marrakech
Middle East & North Africa Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;HĂ´tel Marrakech
Designed by Jasper Conran, every inch of this traditional riad will amaze you. The courtyard garden is home WR D SLFWXUH SHUIHFW SRRO while the roof terrace is ideal for gazing out across the skyline of Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains beyond. Foodies will relish the homemade tagine, grilled Ă&#x20AC;VK DQG GHOLFLRXV FRXVFRXV ² Ă&#x20AC;QLVKHG RII ZLWK D UHIUHVKLQJ mint tea. Take advantage of the prime location and head outside to experience the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s souks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the crowded local markets brimming with spices, pottery, leather goods and much more, in a rainbow of colours. From â&#x201A;Ź293pn (approx. ÂŁ260) for a suite, l-hotelmarrakech.com
QATAR Ă&#x201C;
7h
30
Octâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
Sharq Village & Spa $Q XS DQG FRPLQJ GHVWLQDWLRQ in the Middle East, Doha (the capital of Qatar) provides a unique mix of culture and beauty. The pristine Sharq Village strikes the perfect balance between utter luxury and relaxed tranquility. The
shores of the Persian Gulf are right on your doorstep, and you FDQ EH DPRQJ WKH MDZ GURSSLQJ skyscrapers of the city in just 15 minutes. If you want to combine a getaway break with the urban buzz of somewhere WRWDOO\ GLIIHUHQW \RX¡OO Ă&#x20AC;QG LW right here. From ÂŁ970pp* for five nights for two in a Deluxe Room, includes Qatar Airways flights from London Heathrow and transfers to and from the resort, kuoni.co.uk
OMAN Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa
ranger will advise you on the best times and places to spot the majestic sea creatures. Away from the beach, you can hit the road for a short drive to explore the historic city of Muscat for yourself. From
Located in a secluded, private bay, this resort is made up of two hotels. Al Bandar, meaning â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, is inspired by the old architecture of nearby Muscat, while Al Waha means â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the oasisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and its pools and stunning backdrop create exactly that. The resort has its own dive centre, and its dedicated turtle
ÂŁ2,442pp based on two people sharing, includes seven nights at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa on a B&B basis, plus two nights at 1000 Nights Camp at Wahiba Sands on a half-board basis. Price includes flights, transfers and excursions at Wahiba Sands, audleytravel.com/oman
Ă&#x201C;
Sharq Village & Spa
54 youandyourwedding.co.uk
7h 30m
30
Novâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
*PRICE BASED ON DEPARTURE IN NOVEMBER 2018
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Ă&#x201C;
7h 30m
30
Octâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Apr
Palazzo Versace Dubai
With its iconic Versace style, this truly spectacular, palatial resort in Dubai is something very special. Every single piece of furniture inside the ZDOOV RI WKLV Ă&#x20AC;YH VWDU KRWHO
has been tailormade, and the same attention to detail can also be found inside the many restaurants and bars. Dine at (QLJPD IRU D 3HUVLDQ LQVSLUHG menu, or Vanitas for delicious Italian dishes. The Gazebo beside the pool is ideal for sundowners and shisha. From ÂŁ755pp for four nights for two sharing, on a B&B basis. Includes return flights and transfers, destinology.co.uk
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Palazzo Versace Dubai
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort When one thinks of going on safari, the plains of Africa probably spring to mind. But how about the deserts of the Middle East? This island wildlife park off the western coast of the UAE was originally created as a dedicated conservation project, and this resort now welcomes guests to discover creatures such as Arabian oryx, giraffes, gazelles and cheetahs, which can all be seen on guided safari tours. With just 30 villas, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an air of calm around the resort â&#x20AC;&#x201C; if it feels like itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just you and the animals, it pretty much is! Additional activities include history tours, paddleboarding and dune riding on horseback. From ÂŁ374pn for a One Bedroom Villa with terrace and garden area, anantara.com/en/al-sahel-sir-bani-yas
With over 600 rooms, suites and YLOODV ELJJHU LV GHĂ&#x20AC;QLWHO\ EHWWHU when it comes to this incredible resort in Dubai, reopening after refurbishment in October 2018. Brunch is a Friday and Saturday institution here, and the resort hosts an amazing beachside
version on both days as you chill to the soulful sounds of the resident DJ. And the impressive views of the neighbouring skyscrapers make the Uptown %DU RQ WKH WK Ă RRU WKH SHUIHFW place to go for cocktail hour â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Instagram heaven! From ÂŁ590pn for an Ocean Deluxe room, jumeirah.com
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort
FIND SERENITY AT SAINT LUCIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEWEST ALL-INCLUSIVE, ADULTS-ONLY LUXURY SUITE RESORT A new philosophy in sophisticated, adults-only, Caribbean all-inclusive luxury. Serenity at Coconut Bay offers 36 Plunge Pool Suites in a lush enclave of exotic Saint Lucia, minutes from the airport. Luxuries include spacious indoor and outdoor living areas, personal 24-hour butler service, luxury suite accommodation with private plunge pool, unlimited gourmet dining, unlimited wine and premium spirits, 24-hour room service, private airport transfers, private pool cabanas with poolside waiter service and full access to the award winning Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa. Serenity at Coconut Bay is an exclusive hideaway for discerning romantics, where expectations are transcended, desires indulged and privacy perfected.
Opulent comfort. Intimate Luxury. Unrivaled service. Visit Serenityatcoconutbay.com for Special Offers CALL 01582 792260 or Email serenity@group-promotions.com
EUROPE From beautiful beaches to enchanting cities, there’s so much to explore on the Continent – and you won’t even have to venture too far from home
FRANCE Ó
1h 15m–2h 45m
30
Apr–May & Sept–Oct
Le Meurice If a romantic trip to the City of Love is on the cards, look no further than the spectacular Le Meurice for your honeymoon base in Paris. This exquisite hotel, dating from the 18th century, faces the stunning Jardin des Tuileries and is just moments away from the Louvre and Grand Palais. You may even be able to do some sightseeing without stepping foot on the rue
de Rivoli below, as the Suite Belle Étoile offers superb views of the iconic Eiffel Tower – with access to the terrasse to make the most of it. Dinner is just as opulent as the décor in a hotel where artists such as Dalí have left their mark – don’t leave without dining in the two Michelin-starred restaurant. From €760pn for a Chambre Classique Simple, dorchestercollection.com youandyourwedding.co.uk 57
Europe Six Senses Residences Courchevel
Famed for its fantastic skiing, Courchevel is also home to this luxury haven. During your stay, the hardest decision will be the slopes or the spa – and we suggest both in equal measure. The ski concierge will organise all your gear ready for the pistes – and come evening, you can
ease away the day’s exertions with a relaxing massage. Top RII WKH GD\ ZLWK D ÀQH GLQLQJ meal at one of the resort’s fabulous restaurants or a night out in Courchevel itself. From
GREECE Ó
3h 30m
30
Apr–June & Sept
MarBella Nido
£3,900pp for seven nights, based on two adults in a two-bedroom apartment. The price includes British Airways return flights from London and private transfers, scottdunn.com Six Senses Residences Courchevel
MarBella Nido
Nido means ‘nest’ – and you’ll feel like you’ve checked in to your very own honeymoon nest here. This adults-only retreat is in a secluded location on Corfu’s east coast and is surrounded by luscious greenery with impressive views
ITALY Ó
2h 30m
Rome Cavalieri 30
Apr–Jun & Sept–Oct
Rome Cavalieri Immerse yourself in the sights, culture and cuisine of this fabulous city. The concierge here can organise exclusive tours of iconic landmarks and attractions such as the Vatican City, as well as private viewings of palaces and stately homes. With sweeping views across the Eternal City’s iconic skyline, dinner at La Pergola restaurant, run by renowned Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck, is a must. If there’s still room the next morning, you could indulge in the 15-course (yes!) Imperial Breakfast delivered direct to your own room. Well, when in Rome… From £1,299pp based on two adults sharing a Deluxe Room, including flights with EasyJet from Luton Airport, destinology.co.uk 58 youandyourwedding.co.uk
of the outstandingly beautiful seascape. As well as enjoying evening meals on the terrace or in the restaurant, guests can experience the dining on offer at the Nido’s sister property, MarBella Corfu, right next door. From £135pn on B&B basis, marbellanido.gr
CROATIA Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
are second to none – there’s seaview dining, an indoor pool and a blissful spa. Be sure to discover the secret tunnel that leads down to the sands of the resort’s private beach. From £1,024pp
Croatia is a hot destination right now, and there’s no better way to visit the stunning city of Dubrovnik than by enjoying the prime location of the Excelsior, just a stone’s throw away from the historic Old Town. The facilities
for a seven-night B&B stay, based on two adults sharing a double room. Includes return flights with EasyJet from London Southend to Dubrovnik and private return transfers*, prestigeholidays.co.uk
Ó
2h 45m
30
May–Oct
Myconian Imperial Resort
*PRICE BASED ON DEPARTURE ON 16 OCTOBER 2018
Myconian Imperial Resort
Mykonos is ideal for those honeymooners who want to combine their relaxation with recreation. Just moments away from the well-known Elia beach, any stay at Myconian Imperial Resort delivers a serious dose of sun, sea and sand. With 111 rooms and suites, the resort is pretty big – but the attentive
staff will make you feel like you are VIPs. The hub of the hotel has to be the pool deck – home to two saltwater pools lined with sunbeds, an outdoor jacuzzi and a swim-up bar that’s perfect for midday cocktails. Hop on the resort’s regular shuttle bus to explore Mykonos town when it comes alive at night. From £201pn,
Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
The Phoenicia
Ó
myconianimperial.gr
MALTA Ó
3h 15m
30
Apr–Oct
The Phoenicia
Breathtaking landscapes? Balmy nights? Fine wines? Tick, tick, tick. We all know why Tuscany would make the perfect setting for a romantic break, and L’Andana’s secluded location in the countryside that this region LV IDPHG IRU UHÁHFWV H[DFWO\
1h 45m
30
Dec–Mar & May–Sept
Suvretta House
L’Andana
L’Andana
SWITZERLAND
what this resort is all about – utter tranquility. Spend some time in the ESPA spa, take up residency on a sunlounger by the pool or go on an authentic Tuscan picnic. From
Malta’s islands in the central Mediterranean may be small, but their fascinating history, diverse landscapes and easygoing vibe mean they are big news right now. Opened in 1947, The Phoenicia in 9DOOHWWD ZDV 0DOWD·V ÀUVW OX[XU\ hotel – and to this day, you can expect that the impeccable service will be present and correct. This is a gorgeous base to discover Malta and the neighbouring island of Gozo.
€440pn (approx. £400) based on two sharing, including breakfast, andana.it
From approx. £205pn, including breakfast, campbellgrayhotels.com
With old-school charm and the friendliest of staff, a stay at Suvretta House is something very special. If you visit in winter, you can ski, snowboard and skate to your heart’s content. Or come in summer and enjoy golf, sailing and tennis. Whether you choose to savour afternoon tea in the Hotel Hall or fancy ordering a fondue in the Suvretta Room, just make sure you leave room to try the delicious baked breads which are handmade by the baker each morning. From £325pn on a half-board basis, suvrettahouse.ch
Suvretta House
youandyourwedding.co.uk 59
Europe
PORTUGAL Ó
3h
30
Apr–Jun & Sept–Oct
Anantara Vilamoura
The Algarve is a well-known destination, and its rugged cliffs and beautiful sandy coves are a stunning backdrop to a honeymoon. For an extraspecial experience, check-in to Anantara Vilamoura – there’s a poolside cabana with your name on it, and the luxurious spa offers amazing treatments. Relaxation is your only aim here. The nearby town of Vilamoura is a destination in itself, and is famed for its cool bars, designer shopping and wonderful beaches. From £223pn for a Deluxe Room for two people on a B&B basis, vilamoura.anantara.com
Anantara Vilamoura
Mandarin Oriental Barcelona
This hotel is right in the thick of Barcelona on the long Passeig de Gràcia. There’s a Gaudí house literally across the road, with a short stroll to Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter. When you’re not out and about, try to dedicate a few hours to the rooftop pool to soak up the sunshine and
Gran Hotel Miramar
SPAIN Mar–May Ó
2–3h
30
& Sept–Oct
Gran Hotel Miramar The Costa del Sol is seeing a big revival – and this gem of a hotel is one of our favourites. Its palatial grandeur sets the scene for the luxury inside. As soon as you lay eyes on your beautifully decorated room, you won’t ever want to leave. Tear yourself away to experience 60 youandyourwedding.co.uk
the open-air chill-out zone overlooking the azure hues of the sea, and take time to enjoy the amazing Botanical Spa, with its aromatherapy showers and ice fountain. Perfectly positioned for both the beach and the centre of Málaga, you can easily explore the nearby shops, bars, restaurants, museums and galleries. From €220pn (approx. £200), based on two adults sharing a Premier room on B&B basis, granhotelmiramarmalaga.com
Mandarin Oriental Barcelona
drink in the incredible skyline. It’s also the ideal spot for watching the sunset over the city – after which you can head down to one of the hotel’s three fabulous eateries for dinner. Post-dinner cocktails are best enjoyed in the Banker’s Bar, a former money vault as the name suggests, with the ultra-cool vibe you’d expect. From €375pn (approx. £340), mandarinoriental.com
Grand Canal, Venice
Competition
Verona
Frecciarossa high-speed train
WIN a rail-moon to
WORTH
ÂŁ3,000
ITALY!
Start your newlywed adventure with a scenic train holiday around the Veneto region of Italy
*76 PERCENT OF RESPONDENTS, STUDY CONDUCTED BY LOCO2
T
hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something very romantic about taking a train journey through beautiful scenery with your partner. In fact, a recent study found that over three-quarters of respondents would choose a train over a plane to travel to their holiday destination* â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and ticket booking platform Loco2, with the Italian train service Trenitalia, are offering one lucky You & Your Wedding reader the chance to win a romantic â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rail-moonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for two in Italy.
The prize-winners will receive a ÂŁ3,000 travel credit card from Loco2 to spend on a high-speed train journey from London to the Veneto region in Italy, and then rail travel around Veneto on the Trenitalia network. This wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be any ordinary railway trip, though â&#x20AC;&#x201C; youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be welcomed to business-class seats with a glass of prosecco, and the whole experience will be truly luxurious. Roomy leather seats, extra leg-room and fabulous views of this stunning area
will mean your adventure in Italy will begin as soon as you board the train. For the rest of your time in Italy, you can use your credit card to book accommodation of your choice in the Veneto UHJLRQ 6R \RX FRXOG Ă&#x20AC;QG D honeymoon-perfect place to stay in Venice, and then use the rest of the prize funds to book trips to nearby cities such as Treviso, Padova, and, of course, Verona â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the home of Romeo and Juliet.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS The Promoter is Immediate Media Company London Limited. The competition closes at 11.59pm on 16 November 2018. The prize is available until 16 November 2019. The travel credit card will be with lastminute.com. The winner will be required to provide a minimum of three monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s notice for train bookings (via Loco2). Initial rail travel will take place from London. Winner must stay and travel around the Veneto region. The prize excludes travel between the winnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home and the station, travel insurance, personal expenditure, gratuities or incidental costs, other than where mentioned. It is the responsibility of the prize winner to ensure they have a valid passport and travel insurance and obtain any necessary vaccinations and visas for their trip. Prize cannot be exchanged for cash or transferred. The competition is only open to residents of the United Kingdom. The competition is not open to employees and their immediate families of the Promoter or any other company involved in this prize promotion. Entrants must be 18 or above. The prize winner and their guest must be 18 or above. The Promoter reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions or to cancel, alter or amend the promotion at any stage, if deemed necessary in its opinion, or if circumstances arise outside of its control. One entry per household. One winning entry will be chosen at random from all eligible entries. The winner will be notiďŹ ed by the Promoter via email within 28 days of the competition closing and details of how to claim the prize will be provided. If the winner cannot be contacted, fails to respond within one month of such notiďŹ cation being sent, or declines the prize, the Promoter reserves the right to ofer the prize to a runner up, or to re-ofer the prize in any future promotion. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of the same or greater value. The Promoter does not accept any responsibility for lost, delayed or fraudulent entries. The Promoter will use entrantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; personal details in accordance with the Immediate Privacy Policy (immediatemedia.co.uk/ privacy-policy). The Promoter excludes liability to the full extent permitted by law for any loss, damage or injury occurring to the participant arising from his or her entry into the promotion or occurring to the winner(s) arising from his or her acceptance of a prize. The promotion is subject to the laws of England.
Business-class seats
THE PRIZE A ÂŁ3,000 travel credit card to spend on train travel to Veneto and within the region with Trenitalia, plus accommodation. HOW TO ENTER For the chance to win this amazing prize, answer the following question: Which of these squares is found in Venice? A Trafalgar Square B St Markâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Square C Times Square Visit youandyourwedding. co.uk/competitions to enter. Terms and conditions apply, see left for details.Â
youandyourwedding.co.uk 61
CALIFORNIA & BORA BORA Begin your getaway with a memorable road trip around THE GOLDEN STATE, stopping off to soak up San Francisco and the rolling hills of Carmel Valley, as well as experiencing the delicious wines of Santa Barbara and the supercool beaches of Santa Monica. Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Santa Monica
From exploration and adventure to total relaxation, spend the second leg of your trip on the idyllic shores of BORA BORA in French Polynesia. Checkin to an Instagram-worthy overwater villa and swim in the turquoise waters to start your newlywed life in style.
From ÂŁ5,995pp, includes two nights at Hotel Zetta San Francisco, two nights at Bernardus Lodge & Spa, Carmel Valley, two nights at Belmond El Encanto Santa Barbara, two nights at Oceana, Santa Monica and five nights at Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, car hire, return flights, domestic flights in Tahiti and transfers in Bora Bora, turquoiseholidays.co.uk
SRI LANKA & THE MALDIVES SRI LANKA is a fascinatingly diverse island to discover on a honeymoon. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to spot incredible wildlife in the rainforest, uncover a rich history at ancient Buddhist ruins, and, of course, get a serious slice of sun, sea and sand on the stunning coastline. The Maldives
Sri Lanka
Continue your holiday in THE MALDIVES, the home of hospitality, for a spot of pampering in paradise. Embark RQ D EOLVVIXO UHWUHDW RI Ă&#x20AC;QH dining, sun worshipping and just-the-two-of-us relaxation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all with the most beautiful, picture-perfect backdrops.
From ÂŁ2,440pp for a 14-night package to Sri Lanka and The Maldives, includes seven nights in Sri Lanka, followed by seven nights in The Maldives. Price is based on two adults sharing, includes flights departing from London Gatwick on 20 November 2018, flights between destinations, and all luggage and transfers, tui.co.uk
PERFECT PAIR NEW YORK & MEXICO Throw yourself into the buzz of THE BIG APPLE, staying in the trendy Chelsea district, where you can shop to your heartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s content. In between ticking off all of those bucketlist sights, take advantage of stylish cocktail bars and cool coffee shops for timely pit stops. ZoĂŤtry Paraiso de la Bonita, Mexico
New York
Next on the agenda is sunny MEXICO ² PRUH VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;FDOO\ the glorious coastal city of CancĂşn, home to palm-lined beaches and piercing blue ocean. ZoĂŤtry Paraiso de la Bonita has Mexicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only Thalassotherapy spa â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we feel a pamper session coming on!
From ÂŁ2,659pp for an eight-night trip to New York City and the Riviera Maya, Mexico, includes three nights at the Dream Downtown in New York on a room-only basis and five nights at ZoĂŤtry Paraiso de la Bonita on an all-inclusive basis, all flights and private transfers. Price is based on travel in May 2019, inspiringtravelcompany.co.uk 62 youandyourwedding.co.uk
SINGAPORE & BALI Jet straight off to the hotright-now destination of SINGAPORE. Its iconic VN\OLQH LV Ă&#x20AC;OOHG ZLWK IXWXULVWLF architecture, much of it covered in greenery. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get the best of the views from the gorgeous rooftop bar at Jen Orchardgateway. The Elysian, Bali
Jen Orchardgateway, Singapore
The Indonesian island of BALI is famed for untouched beauty and a laid-back vibe, and you could be lapping up both from the comfort of The Elysian, D Ă&#x20AC;YH VWDU UHVRUW VLWXDWHG LQ the upmarket Seminyak. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the market town of Ubud or the temple at Tanah Lot.
From ÂŁ1,979pp for a 10-night trip, includes seven nights at The Elysian in a One Bedroom Villa (with one complimentary dinner for two and one massage) and three nights at Hotel Jen Orchardgateway in a Superior Room on a B&B basis. Includes breakfast, Singapore Airlines flights from London Heathrow and transfers in resort. Based on two adults sharing for selected dates in November 2018. Quote SK038, kuoni.co.uk
Twin-centre holidays
SOUTH AFRICA & MOZAMBIQUE )XOĂ&#x20AC;O DOO \RXU VDIDUL GUHDPV in the bushlands of SOUTH AFRICA. During a visit to the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve in the far east of the country, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get the chance to get up close to elephants, lions, leopards and a lot more on twice-daily game drives.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
The second half of your trip will start with a helicopter ride to andBeyond Benguerra Island off the coast of MOZAMBIQUE. The Robinson Crusoe experience (luxe version, of course) includes snorkelling, sea kayaking and birdwatching.
andBeyond Benguerra Island, Mozambique
From ÂŁ6,885pp for a nine-day tailormade journey, includes complimentary UK lounge access, return flights between UK and South Africa/Mozambique, twice-daily game drives during a three-night stay at Dulini River Lodge, helicopter transfers to and from andBeyond Benguerra Island, a six-night stay in five-star deluxe lodges on full-board basis, with one activity a day, wexas.com
INGS Zanzibar
Discover the vibrant buzz of VIETNAM from the unique vantage point of a cruise along the Mekong River. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll begin your cruise in Ho Chi Minh City, soaking up the unique mix of city life and historic culture, before sailing due west towards Chau Doc villageâ&#x20AC;Ś
Mekong River cruise
â&#x20AC;Śand then crossing the border into CAMBODIA, where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to experience local markets, magical temples and lesser-known villages before DUULYLQJ DW \RXU Ă&#x20AC;QDO GHVWLQDWLRQ on the Mekong â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Siem Reap, a fascinating city full of ancient wonders, including Angkor Wat.
Cambodia
From ÂŁ2,975pp for a 10-day itinerary in Vietnam and Cambodia, flying from London to Bangkok and on to Ho Chi Minh City with a seven-night cruise on the Mekong River on board The Jahan cruise liner. Price is based on two people sharing, including full-board accommodation, shared guiding, international flights and transfers, steppestravel.com
After all our destination inspiration, you may be struggling to decide on one dream holiday. So why not plan a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;mega-moonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; with two glorious locations? Here are some twin-centre honeymoon ideas that include the best of both worldsâ&#x20AC;Ś
TANZANIA & ZANZIBAR Home to the breathtaking plains of the Serengeti, TANZANIA has beauty, adventure and culture in equal measures. As well as the obvious pull of its extraordinary wildlife, this east African country is also home to Mount Kilimanjaro and the Great African Lakes.
VIETNAM & CAMBODIA
Tanzania
Off the coast of Tanzania is the almost fabled island of ZANZIBAR, a place very different from the safari lands of the main continent. Zanzibarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sands are so pure and white, and its waters so clear, that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve stepped into an actual postcard.
From ÂŁ3,299pp for 10 nights, includes all flights, seven nightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; small group safari including three/four-star accommodation, seven breakfasts, seven lunches and six dinners, transfers, game drives and park fees, plus three nights at four-star Breezes Beach Club & Spa Zanzibar, half-board basis, with private transfers. Price based on two adults sharing. Valid for 1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;12 November 2018, trailfinders.com
NEW ZEALAND & FIJI Head to Wanaka in NEW ZEALAND for adventure. From helicopter rides to mountainELNLQJ WUDLOV \RX¡OO EH DEOH WR Ă&#x20AC;OO your days with high-octane fun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; come in the winter to include skiing. Continue the rush in Queenstown with jet-boating, rafting and sky-diving. Tokoriki Island Resort
Queenstown
After all that excitement, slow the pace down with a Ă&#x20AC;YH QLJKW VWD\ RQ WKH LG\OOLF shores of FIJI. All you have to do here is position yourself EHVLGH WKH LQĂ&#x20AC;QLW\ SRRO DW Tokoriki Island Resort and enjoy the breathtaking 6RXWK 3DFLĂ&#x20AC;F VXUURXQGLQJV
From ÂŁ3,795pp for 12 days for two people sharing, includes three nights with breakfast at Lime Tree Lodge in Wanaka, four nights at The Sofitel in Queenstown, and five nights at Tokoriki Island Resort in Fiji. Inclues international flights, car hire in New Zealand and transfers in Fiji, turquoiseholidays.co.uk youandyourwedding.co.uk 63
Dreaming of getting married in Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sun-kissed Amalfi coast? The Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria in Sorrento can make it happen in style. This family-run, 5-star hotel is nestled in 5 acres of Mediterranean garden facing Naples Gulf. A breathtaking location!
edding, Your W ay Your W
e v e n t s @ e x v i t t . i t | w w w. e x v i t t . i t
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Brit-Stitch
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Poporcelain
Tamila Mist Sprayer
POPORCELAIN from Copenhagen, Denmark, creates beautiful and delicate bridal porcelain jewellery. Every piece of bijou is carefully KDQG FUDIWHG IURP Ă&#x20AC;QH ZKLWH porcelain, experiencing more WKDQ KRXUV RI NLOQ Ă&#x20AC;ULQJ ZLWK temperatures reaching 1280°C. Jewellery lovingly decorated with gold tone and pearl elements; POPORCELAIN offers modern or vintage style collections. All unique in shape and no two are exactly the same.
Tamila-S1 Ultrasonic Handy Mist Sprayer. The Chic new way to keep your skin refreshed and hydrated on the go. With a choice of facial toners, this lovely product is a must-have.
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Pack your bag
Desert In Bloom foldable water bottle, £2.95, Rex London
Toucan beach towel, £15, John Lewis
Stripe packable weekender bag, £20, Accessorize
Pink Chinese bamboo folding fan, £2.95, Rex London
JET Hana jewellery travel box, £18, Oliver Bonas
Astyll CarryOn marbled hardshell suitcase, £140, Calpak at Net-aPorter
SET
ESSENTIALS Your must-have travel treats
Voyage passport cover, £22, Matt & Nat
Silver hearts luggage tag, £10.50, Caroline Gardner
Tile Style luggage tracker, £29.99, Tile
In-flight bag, £26.49, iphoria
Patterned brush, £13.99, The Wet Brush
Rose face mist, £14, Herbivore at Space NK The getaway travel pillow, £22, ban.do at Amara
66 youandyourwedding.co.uk
Alexis White Meadow eye mask, £18, Catherine & Jean
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Sandalwood & ginger lip balm, £20, Bali Balm