BOND Bride Magazine Issue 1

BOND B R I D E

MAGPIE WEDDING PRESENTS: Creative wedding inspiration for the strong, stylish bride

Issue 1 | Autumn 2018

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Editor's Note

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Gemma and Jo

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Beautiful BohemiaÂ

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DIY Touches

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Dip Dyed Beach Vibes

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Art Deco Vintage

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Key Trends

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Planning Advice

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Cover image: Nina Pang Thanks to Carys Redfern & Stephanie Moran for their contribution

Sassy

Photo by Kate McCarthy

Kate Beavis - Magpie Wedding Welcome to BOND Bride, our first digital magazine from the team behind the creative blog and show - Magpie Wedding.

Why BOND? Bond is a the strong force between two people who are in love whatever their age, sexuality, race, size or ability. Bond represents strength; we are all for sharing strong stylish women and will never say anything to bring them down (no teeth whitening or weight loss here).

Who is a BOND bride?

A BOND bride loves fashion, being herself, being as ethical as she can be, embraces creativity - be it high end or DIY. We strongly feel you should have the wedding that you want, not the one someone tells you to have. Your day, your way. Oh and we also support UK indie businesses that strive to make a difference to the industry as well as for your big day.

I hope you find some inspiration in BOND. Enjoy!

x e t Ka

MAYA ANGELOU:

LOVE RECOGNISES NO BARRIERS. IT JUMPS HURDLES, LEAPS FENCES, PENETRATES WALLS TO ARRIVE AT ITS DESTINATION FULL OF HOPE.

Gemma and Jo Add heading From former colleagues to happily married!

"Our wedding felt so much like us as a couple."

A fling in a workplace is hard to hide, let alone true love! Gemma may have been Jo's boss but that didn't stop their love from blossoming, they clicked straight away and although they attempted to keep their relationship a secret it soon became obvious that the whole work place had taken note of their new romance.Â

"I said yes!"

A romantic week away in St Ives, a surprise spa morning, champagne and a romantic walk along the cliffs, what more could you ask for...

Except of course for Gemma's hand in marriage! She was completely oblivious as they walked along the coastline, champagne in hand, whilst Jo was complaining about it being "too busy" because there were two hikers in the distance.

Fortunately though, they found a place to sit and Jo began saying lovely things to Gemma,when out popped a box, and the question!

Of course, after many crude words, Gemma eagerly said yes.

8 months of

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planning

Often a time frame as small as that would scare even a pro wedding planner, but Gemma and Jo did not flutter an eyelid, in fact they were excited!

They took the DIY route, which resulted in their 1 bedroom flat looking like Hobbycraft had exploded in it ,and numerous burn scars left from a dreaded glue gun,. Yet, nevertheless, it was worth it for the end result of invites, seating cards and even a photo booth!

Gemma and Jo told us they were initially wanting an outside wedding, but with British weather being unreliable they chose a venue with a backup option.

This consisted of a beautiful uncovered courtyard to hold their ceremony, and a shabby chic barn styled room for their reception - this all being at Theobalds Estate in Cheshunt.

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"In the seven years we've been together, I've only seen Jo in a dress once" Having never been super feminine nor masculine the traditional dress or suit would have never worked for Jo. After numerous attempts to find Jo a white suit, all of which being a complete failure, Jo's mum found a beautiful silvery silk jumpsuit which fitted the criteria perfectly.

A day full of surprises!

On the day of the wedding the happy couple were continuously surprised by small acts of kindness given by both one another, and their guests!

Gemma treated Jo to a live gig from the band they had gone to listen to when they first started dating, in fact, whilst they were there Jo had said to her " wouldn't it be amazing to have them play at our wedding if we ever get married". Years later, Gemma had still kept hold of that comment and delivered the amazing gift of nostalgia when CASH were standing on stage before them.

One of their Bridesmen had also written and recorded a song for the two of them which was played during the evening reception, and even sung by members of the bridal party.

The Best Part ?

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"I honestly couldn't choose; every single aspect was so amazing in its own way. From passing each other notes in between our rooms in the morning, to my dad seeing me all done up for the first time, to walking down the aisle and seeing Jo looking so, so beautiful, to Jo wiping lipstick off my teeth when we were signing the registrar, to seeing all our loved ones so happy for us, to the speeches, seeing Jo's face when she recognised the surprise band, to our Bridesman's song, to the first and last dance, to our photographer fireman's lifting me to a photoshoot location, to our friends turning up at our room at 3 in the morning with champagne..."

"Literally, everything was the best!"

Credits:

Photographer: Rafe Abrook Dress: Maggie Sottero, Savannah Marie from Abigail's Bridal Shoes: Jenny Packman Ted Baker Hair Pieces: Abigail Bridal Davids Bridal Bracelets: Links of London

Bouquet: Passiflora Studios London Makeup & Hair: Natalie Danielle Jumpsuit: Harvey Nichols Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Packham Wonder range from Davids Bridal Venue: The Stables, De Vere, Theobalds Estate, Theobalds Park, Cheshunt Decor Hire: Wedding Day Hire CASH: Johnny Cash Tribute Band

"The most exciting, challenging & significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you find someone to love the you, that you love, well that's just fabulous."

CARRIE BRADSHAW

 Beautiful Bohemia!

Romantic boho wedding vibes

"We opted for a dreamy palette of soft pinks" We love this bohemian styled shoot by the photographer Nina Pang. Bohothemed weddings are huge right now; they can be adapted across all four seasons and incorporate a vast range of colour schemes.

With Spring being the driving force of this shoot, Nina took inspiration from the seasonal cherry blossoms that she found on site, feeling it hard not to lust for a spring breeze within all the thick air. Femininity and chicness, combined with delicate styling, were juxtaposed against the rich, dark surroundings of the venue, The Fitzgerald Heaton

"Vintage accents were added throughout the shoot to give character and depth."

Jewellery, kindly donated by Gemma Redmond Vintage helped to break the shoot apart and allow for diversity.

These items did not take over the shoot and make the wedding 'vintage themed' but allowed for an intricate finish to the shoot - meaning no stone was left unturned, and details practically poured out of this shoot.

Brightly coloured pieces in shades of peach and pink were selected, including a Balenciaga ring from the 1990s, a bracelet from the 1950s and earrings from 1960s

Maybe May, the creator of these striking flower arrangements, utilised a mix of seasonal flowers with foraged greenery; which once again created variation and evoked a romantic atmosphere. The deep green, which is contrasted with the white and pink shades, emphasises a sense of mystery which draws the overlooker in and makes the image irresistible.

"Hellebores, ranunculus, scabious and roses were juxtaposed with soft eucalyptus and blossoms to create a soft, feminine vibe."

Beautiful, vintage props were provided in abundance by Florence & Vera. A copper arbour made the perfect hanging place for a gorgeous macrame backdrop, with vintage Persian rugs creating a mock aisle; adding to the boho feel of the shoot..

Biscuits featured hand-painted designs, inspired by the elegant and detailed watercolour designs on the stationery. The invitation suite featured the running theme of cherry blossom, combined with foliage and a beautiful script font to add to the romanticism of the shoot.

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"Hand painted watercolour decorations and delicate sugar blossoms floating away from the cake itself."

Credits Stylist & Photographer: Nina Pang Dress: MelJoy Costume Accessories: Gemma Redmond Vintage Bouquet: Maybe May Makeup & Hair: Makeup by Reo Venue: The Fitzgerald Heaton Moor Videographer: Kalong Tong Tableware: Vintage Gold China Jackets: Sammy Lea's Retro Emporium Cake Topper: Etched Studio Veil: Adorn By Ashley Ribbon: Kate Cullen Props Hire: Florence & Vera Stationery: Wonderland Invites

OPRAH WINFREY:

LOTS OF PEOPLE WANT TO RIDE WITH YOU IN THE LIMO, BUT WHAT YOU WANT IS SOMEONE WHO WILL TAKE THE BUS WITH YOU WHEN THE LIMO BREAKS DOWN.

Samantha & Jonathan Pretty DIY touches

"I turned him down!"

Both Jonathan and Samantha worked together in a pension centre when Jon took a shining to her. They began chatting but when he finally came around to asking her out on a date she turned him down! However, it was for the valid reason of not wanting a work relationship, but a year later they both got news about changing job locations and Samantha used that as her excuse to make it up to Jon, and ask him out herself.

"Our first official date was at St Fagans National History Museum where we got married four years later."

An amazing trip to NYC for Samantha's birthday was the perfect excuse for Jon to pop the question. As they were getting ready for their first date night in the city, Jon was waiting on the bed with the ring!

It was a ring that Samantha had hinted at during a shopping trip that ticked all the boxes, "it looked vintage and was rather dainty". Of course she said yes, and from then on has always been mesmerised by the sparkly diamonds on her left hand.

"This part I thoroughly enjoyed"!

After being compared to "Monica out of friends" numerous times, Samantha knew that she would  fit into this planning role quite nicely.

Samantha told us that most of her inspiration came from their own personalities as she wanted the day to be as personal and intimate as possible - any other ideas came from trusty Etsy.

What was the theme?

Samantha was relieved when Jon told her she could "organise the rest" having chosen the music and decided on a 1966 convertible Mustang in stunning burgundy as their wedding car.

When Samantha looks back on their special day the main words that spring to mind are "crochet, daisies, knitted, hearts, pastel colours and fun!" Which by the looks of it seems pretty accurate.

Only one place was right Having not only had their first date there but also holding lots of memories of Samantha's late mother, the best place that sprung to mind when planning their wedding was St Fagan's Castle in the museum.

This experience was accompanied by a fantastic walk to their evening venue, which was also in the museum, that allowed them to take photos next to the infamous red cottage, on a huge log and through the beautiful paths leading up to Oakdale Hall, before making their entrance.

"I wanted a bouquet I could keep for the rest of my life"

Crazy about the details Samantha's bouquet remains one of the most important pieces of the day for her, with special help from a close friend, and her own skills, they created an incredible piece of art that will be treasured for years.

With details such as buttons that had their names on and a special brooch to remind her of her mother, what more could you want in a bouquet?

The cake was also crafted by another close friend and complimented the theme effortlessly; it consisted of daisies, handmade bunting and a cake stand which is now used for a coffee table in their home.

Samantha also decided, along with the theme of preserving items her wedding day, to turn the messages in the guest book from their wedding day into a bespoke wooden heart pallet which they now have hung in their bedroom.

"It had an element of 1920's era with a modern twist"

Samantha's dress was a very subtle shade of pink with heavy beading on the bodice, and subtle sequin details on the back that caught the light and shimmered beautifully.

However, with all this Jon decided he wanted to add a touch of humour to his attire by adding colourful striped monster socks.

Apart from these, his outfit for the day was made up of a pink tie to match Samantha, tan brogues to compliment the navy undertone of his suit and a handmade button hole consisting of lavender, daisies, and wildflowers.

What was the best park the day?

"The best part of our day was seeing one another as I made my entrance. It was an incredibly emotional moment filled with happiness and nerves. Jon said the sweetest thing to me as I stood next to him which will be engraved in my head for the rest of my life.

We also enjoyed having our pictures taken as we wanted a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Eleanor Jane captured our wedding perfectly with many natural, fun and quirky shots."

And finally, any wise words?

"Please take a couple of moments to really digest the day. I did this a few times throughout. This way the memories won’t become a blur, as many people told me this would be the case because it goes so quickly. I remember taking a moment in the morning watching my bridesmaids talking. I just sat back and looked at how beautiful they looked and how emotional my Father was. I remember also taking a moment during our afternoon tea, looking around the room watching everybody enjoying the wonderful spread of food.

These precious moments are engraved in my head, including the very end of the night when Jon and I were waiting for our transport back to a cottage we rented.

Everything was so peaceful whilst we were sat outside the wonderful historical building saying to one another ‘we did it, we’re married!"

Credits:

Dress: Laura May Bridal, Crwys Road, Cardiff Shoes: ASOS Bridal Necklace: Etsy Personalised Buttons: Etsy Makeup & Hair:Faye Oconnell Hair & Makeup Suit: Young's Hire Bridesmaid Dresses: Debenhams Venue: St Fagans Castle & Hall Photographer: Eleanor Jane Photography Cake: Rachel's Cakes & Bakes Embroidered ring holder: Etsy

Add heading Your Something Dip dyed, beach vibes

Blue

"Once we saw the dress we knew, we just knew it was the one."

This beautiful blue shoot took place at Thorpeness Country Club.With its beautiful interior and private beach, the venue allowed the two photographers to turn their ideas into reality.

The repetitive blue and white colour palette brings consistency to the shoot, evoking tranquillity and enjoyment - which is all you could ask for on the big day!

The team took their main influences from the beach itself, knowing they wanted the main colour theme to be blues and white. They also love watercolour and ombre patterns, so really wanted to include this in the look.

The dress designer, Bex Brides, developed her own technique to hand colour her gowns, whether they are bespoke creations or as in this case an eco-friendly vintage skirt on which she combined the effects of dip dye, ombre and air brush effects.

"With this skirt I wanted to create the effect of the colours of the sea and waves but also a brilliant summer blue with fluffy clouds."

The venue has a beautiful interior, which allowed them to set up the tablescape inside, as well as have a private stretch of beach which meant they could have all the beautiful couples shots with the stunning beach backdrop.

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"The simple cake compliments the theme rather than overriding it, bringing appreciation to the thought out colour scheme."

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"The light sea breeze emphasised the movement within the bouquet, giving an untamed impression suiting the bride with an artistic, free spirit."

This hand-tied bouquet suggests a carefree attitude which echoes a Boho style, whilst, the blue and grey tones brings both the flowers and the theme together subtly. For any bride wanting to know the contents of the bouquet, the flowers used are Cornflowers, Anemones, Agapanthus, Amaranthus, Thlaspi Green bell and a variety of Eucalyptus.

And finally, having a bronzed glow and flawless skin was the inspiration for the make-up look. This created a beach feel to the make-up with a soft shimmer on the eyes and false lashes to accentuate the eye area in the sunshine. A hint of colour on the lips using Delilah hush a popular nude shade added definition to the lips. A soft breeze is common on the beach, so I choose a soft style to keep the hair tidy yet looking loose and effortless.

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Credits: Photography: Bond Photography Photography: Charlotte Razzell Photography Venue: Thorpeness Country Club Flowers: Triangle Nursery Dresses: bexbrides Stationery: Sarah Ardrey Designs Hair and Makeup: Jenny Buckland Hair Accessories: Rachel Louise Bridal Accessories Stylist: Venue Styling By Sara Cake: Amelie's Kitchen

Jacqui & Ricky An Art Deco Vintage Wedding

"Ricky and I were a 96% match, which I thought at first was unlikely!"

By the third date the couple knew it was meant to be, and now, happily married, they consider that date to be the day of their anniversary; as this was when they both decided they wanted to be in a serious relationship with one another.

The Proposal!

After being whisked on a romantic getaway in London, for both their anniversary and Jacqui's birthday, Ricky devised a plan to ask the love of his life for her hand in marriage.

Jacqui describes the lack of enthusiasm she had shown when Ricky insisted, after a 3 hour walk in Hampstead Heath, that they should go to the top of Parliament Hill to see a better view of the City. Little did she know, once they climbed to the top and she was ready to head home, just behind her was Ricky on one knee with a ring in his hand...

"We wanted something that felt authentically vintage"

Jacqui, having planned numerous weddings in the past, wanted hers to be the best thing she had "ever organised".

After Ricky gave some essentials that she must abide by "good food and alcohol", Jacqui was allowed free reign to plan their wedding day.

"I wanted something that felt authentically vintage" The Art Deco period was her main influence so she pulled together all her influences from the 1930s; green uranium Davidson chevron vases, chrome and walnut picture frames, vintage styled wedding cakes and even a vintage wedding cake topper. She began creating a power point slide for each wedding item, this then allowed her to collect images that not only inspired her, but aided in her final decisions. By the end of it, Jacqui had a 40 page power point which composed of every element needed!

For Jacqui there was no place other than The Long Gallery, which dates back to the 1570s, to say their vows...

However, to avoid the restraint of having a wedding in a venue that only lets you use their suppliers, they decided to have their reception in a different location.

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Finally, after a lot of research and time, they found a large seven bedroom property that has been photographed in magazines and adverts in Balham, that they could hire for a week and for a small additional charge, host their wedding reception!

Shopping!

Having the stress of planning a wedding is pressure enough, let alone deciding what your entourage wears. Luckily, for Jacqui, both her fiance and bridesmaids were easy to please..

With Ricky happily settling for a Hugo Boss suit, black Loake shoes, and a white shirt, tie and pocket square, of which all were found in Selfridges, the first hurdle had been overcome.

The bridesmaid dresses were the second, at first Jacqui could only find dresses that she felt were "ugly" but, after a bit of a search, she found some sage coloured dresses in Debenhams which her girls were more than happy to wear.

"To this day I still have my bouquet as I loved it so much I didn't want to get rid of it!"

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"I really didn't know what I was looking for."

After being so sure on what her visions were for most of the wedding, when it came to her dress Jacqui had no clue where to begin, she knew she wanted lace but was unsure about everything else.

"I went to about 10 different shops"

Finally, there it was! A Pronovias Atelier dress that she felt after a few alterations would be nothing short of perfect!

Jacqui began the task straight away by contacting the store in which the dress was made and ordering two extra metres of lace, to ensure she would have enough to create 3/4 length sleeves, and add more length to both the front and the back.

Four dress fitting later, she finally had her ideal dress.

So, why choose vintage?

Jacqui kindly told to us that she had never been big on trends and actually realised, during planning her wedding, that because of these trends so many weddings looked alike.

This was her main motivation for planning a vintage wedding, other than liking the Art Deco period. Here, she found that they could express their personal styles without looking the same as everyone else.

Jacqui also felt that vintage weddings appeared more romantic and therefore timeless.

Some final words of wisdom from Jacqui "As much as you organise and prepare for the big day, be prepared for something to go wrong. It'll be fine. Just make sure you can delegate problem solving to a groomsmen and bridesmaid on the day so you can be blissfully unaware of any issues and just enjoy the day. You don't get that day back so try and enjoy every second possible.

Make sure you take time on the wedding day to just spend time together. Our hour long car journey from the ceremony to the venue in our 1930's Rolls Royce limo was a wonderful hour; just enjoying being a newly married couple together without the hassle of wedding guests or endless pictures being taken was wonderful."

Credits:

Photographer: Sarah Brookes Photography Bridesmaid Dresses: Debenhams Dress: Atelier Pronovias Shoes: Hobbs Bouquet: Flowers By Eve Veil: All Things Lucy Makeup & Hair: Lipstick & Curls

Jewellery: Luxedeluxe Car: Ultimate Classic Car Hire Grooms Suit: Selfridges Venue: Greenwich Heritage

teloiV artlU :SDNERT Lina and Tom Photography

The Perfect Purple

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The most perfect colour of the season, 2018 saw Pantone name ultra-violet it's colour of the year!

Whether you're going full on purple perfection or adding your own touch of purple - make sure it's incorporated in your big day...

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Purple separates - top and skirt by Bowen Dryden.

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Button bridal bouquet by I Heart Buttons

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Personalised vanilla biscuit favours by Pink Cocoa Purple Amethyst and Silver Ring by Krausz Jewellery

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Fresh flower bouquet by Vicki's Floral Design Ultra-Violet cake table styling by Gido Weddings. Cakes by Vitas delights

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Thomas Art Photography

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tnemhsillebmE :SDNERT Daniel Moncoeur Photography

Elegant

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Embellishment Embellishment comes in many a form, but one things for sure it adds depth, sophistication, and elegance to its adorned item. Traditions are out of the window with our top embellished picks, for this modern trend is creeping into all things wedding related.

yhpargotohP snotruB ehT

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Embroidered silk Bridal dress

by Atelier 19

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Floral embroidered veil by Daisy Sheldon Embroidery Four tier embellished cake by Debbie Gillespie cake design

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Hand painted Bridal shoes by Elizabeth Rose Bespoke garter by Extra SpecialTouch

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Floral embellished cape by Adorn by Ashley

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laitseleC cillateMÂ :SDNERT

Celebrate your Celestial Style Celebrate your inner celestial goddess with our top alternative, metallic picks . Break away from the 'norm' and feel more like you on your wedding day.

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Luna Dress by E and W Couture

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Under the moon personalisedÂ

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Bespoke headpiece by Gemma Sangwine

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necklace by Ethnic Eclectic Jewellery

Alternative Bridal Design by Karen Dornellie

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Geometric gold leaf cake by Marie Antoinette Cakes Gold foil stationery by Lost Heritage

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sletsaP :SDNERT

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Be Perfect in Pastels

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Pastels are the crème de la crème when it comes to styling your wedding - if you're deliberating over two colours as one just won't do... turn them into shades of pastel and voila you have yourself a perfectly matched colour theme! Now here's some inspiration for your pretty pastel wedding

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Pastel RaRa capes by Bowen Dryden

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Trio of pastel cakes by Malarkey Cakes Woburn x Bowen Dryden alternative bridesmaid collection

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Sarah Brookes Photography

Pink pastel and gold buttonholes

by Maddison Rocks Love heart themed badges

by Vintage Pin Club

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Faux floral bouquet by Beau Buttons

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CAKES IN THE HEAT

BY SHELLEY SHULMAN FROM LA BELLE CAKE COMPANY

Any bride planning a summer wedding wants nothing more than a sunny wedding day and this summer there have been a LOT of lucky couples. Many have enjoyed the rare British heatwave and despite the couple of days of rain it shows no signs of slowing down as the forecasts predict two more weeks at least of sunshine and hot temperatures.

And while the sunshine is wonderful, the heat has been causing a few wedding woes. Not only do we have hot brides in wedding dresses, we also have some very hot cake makers.

Heat like that we have experienced has been a thorn in the side for cake makers across the country. From making and decorating, to delivery and then set up of the cake the heat throws in a few challenges along the way.

But all challenges have solutions.

Whether you are having a buttercream or fondant cake if you follow these words of wisdom than you can still have the perfect centre piece on your wedding day.

Buttercream Cakes Buttercream cakes will always throw up a few more issues in this heat than a fondant iced wedding cake but it doesn’t mean you have to avoid them completely in the summer months.

If a buttercream wedding cake is your cake of choice there are systems you can put in place to make sure your cake is perfect.

Delivery Whilst it may be in the schedule to have your cake delivered at 1pm when the weather is really hot, you will have to be open to some changes. Take a buttercream cake, add a hot car and throw in the midday sun for good measure and you can imagine the results. Instead change the plan, speak to the venue and ask your cake maker to deliver your cake as early as possible to combat the heat. If we have a buttercream cake to deliver we aim to deliver no later than 9am.

Venue provisions Ask the venue or caterers to chill the cake for you until it is needed. This coincides with location. Where were you planning on displaying the cake? Avoid placing it in front of windows or direct sunlight. If it’s in a marquee and it has no air conditioning, then ask the venue to bring the cake out as late as possible. Whilst a wedding cake is technically made to be on display there is nothing attractive about a melting pile of butter and a collapsing cake. If you are adamant about having the cake on display, then logistics need to be carefully thought out. Firstly move the cake table to the coolest area of the venue. Ensure it is away from any sources of heat such as windows and direct sunlight. If it’s a marquee than position the cake under or in front of an air conditioning unit or fan

Fondant Iced Cakes Fondant cakes do stand up a little better in the heat but that doesn’t mean systems don’t need to be put into place.

Delivery Like buttercream cakes, fondant cakes are much better delivered in the early morning when temperatures are cooler. Heat will make the icing go soft which will affect the structure of the cake and may cause it to collapse. So ask your cake maker to deliver the cake as early as possible.

Venue Provisions Unlike buttercream cakes, fondant cakes must not be put in the fridge at all. A fridge will make the icing sweat, this will cause condensation on the service and ruin all the beautiful decoration. All they need is to be kept at room temperature, so a fondant cake can be set up and displayed with minimal issues. Again, make sure the cake is kept away from windows and direct sunlight. If it’s in a marquee keep it as cool as you can away from any sources of heat. .

Follow these tips and you will have a picture perfect wedding cake on your big day whatever the temperature

SUCCESSFUL DRESS SHOPPIMG

BY STEPHANIE MORAN FROM STEPHANIE MORAN COUTURE.

1. Do Your Research Before you start booking appointments take your time to look at the boutiques in your area. If you know you like a certain designer check for the stores that stock them, you can generally search for these online. Take a look at the boutique’s websites that you want to visit, this, hopefully, will give you a feel for the store and whether they can give you the shopping experience you are after. Most websites don’t have prices on however, don’t be afraid to ask them for their price range of dresses.

2. Be selective when choosing your entourage It’s tempting to want to include your whole bridal party and co in your dress shopping experience, however this generally will end up with your head being spun by opposing opinions and wanting to please everyone. We would recommend a maximum of two people. You need people there to support you, but don’t want to end up feeling hindered by them.

If you couldn’t possibly choose between them, take different people to different appointments, or once you’ve narrowed your search down to one or two dresses that you love make an appointment to re-try and invite your bridal party to come with you.

3. Wear the right underwear Nude, neutrals and white is always best, make sure it’s comfortable and a close match to what you would potentially wear on the day. A strapless bra is always a good idea for sweetheart, off shoulder and low-cut styles, unless of course you know that wearing a strapless bra is not an option for you. If it makes you feel more confident, or you want a figure hugging dress wear shapewear to give you a smooth and clean line.

4. Silhouettes Your body shape, is your body shape, be proud of it. If you don’t wear anything fitted in your everyday life and never have done it is unlikely that you will feel comfortable in this style walking down the aisle in front of all your family and friends. Do a little bit of research on body types and decide what type you are – knowing this is also good for everyday shopping. When you’re trying on get someone to make notes, there may be a pattern that emerges and this will stop you gravitating back to silhouettes that didn’t work.

5. Know your budget Again, your budget is your budget, don’t hide it and most certainly don’t be ashamed of it either way– being open and honest about it is only going to be beneficial in the long run. Don’t try on dresses that a way over your budget, because, if it ends up being the dress of your dreams, you’re only going to be left feeling disappointed. This may make it harder to find a dress within your budget as you will use said dress as a direct comparison.

6. Added Extras Does your dress budget include all the added extras? Take these into account. Many Brides have a dress budget but don’t think about all the extra bits, these could easily add up to as much as the dress itself. Dress alterations, veil, garter, shoes, sashes. If you’re not an accessory fan you may want to skip most of these details, however, If you’re the type of person that loves a good accessory or two, think about going simple on the dress and adding personality and unique style with your accessories

Photos by Victoria Baker Weddings

7. Think about the bigger picture Keep in mind any themes you have, what your venue is like, what you want the bridesmaids to be wearing. All of this may influence what style of dress you need to go for. If your priority is dancing the night away with the amazing wedding band you’ve booked, don’t go for something where movement is restricted – prioritise your wants and needs for the day.

8. Be open minded Doing your research is good as it gives you a starting point, but, keep an open mind, your dress shopping experience may lead you to trying on styles which you hadn’t thought about. What you think you want is not always what you will end up loving.

9. Be the perfect you Your wedding day is about the two of you – it’s easy to forget! Your fiancé is marrying you because they love you… just the way you are.

On your wedding day you should be the most perfect version of yourself – no matter what style that may be.

10.Enjoy it!

Enjoy the experience, bridal dress shopping is playing the ultimate dress up! Don’t take yourself too seriously and have some fun with it. There’s a strong possibility you’ll try on styles that will do nothing for you (or your confidence) brush it off, and continue your journey of finding the dress that allows you to be the perfect you.

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SUNSHINE MAKE UP TIPS

BY KERRY CURL FROM THE CAMBRIDGE MAKE UP ARTIST

Ahh the sun is out, and for some very lucky ladies, their wedding day is looming, so here are my 5 top tips for summer wedding makeup – cruelty free!

1. Preparation – if your skin is oily go for an oil free moisturiser, and then apply a mattifying primer over your T-zone and eyelids, I like Kiko’s skin trainer CC blur.

2. Foundation – There’s nothing better than glowing skin, if your skin is oily go for an oil free foundation like Charlotte Tilbury’s magic foundation, if you have dry or normal skin go for a hydrating foundation such as Too faced Born this way medium – full coverage, using a blending brush apply all over the skin and eyelids.

3. Eyes- For eyes that mesmerise, apply a matt base shade, and build up colour through to the outer corner’s deepening the shade as you go, for extra staying power apply a liquid liner along the top of your lash line, it will stay on far better than any pencil will in the heat. I like Charlotte Tilbury’s Feline flick, which gives excellent control through the lash line. Add a pop of highlighter for the inner corner for that extra outside sparkle.

4. Blush – If its hot, you’ll not be needing so much, go for a soft, powdery formula that will absorb and heat.

5. Lips – You’re lips will be kissing over 100 guests on your big day, sipping drinks, so my top tip would be to add some concealer to your lips first to add better staying power, then outline your lips with a creamy lipliner such as Revolution pro’s renaissance, then add your favourite complimentary lip colour over your lips to seal the deal!.

IMAGE BY LEAH LOMBARDI