Wed Magazine Cornwall Issue 64

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Fresh fashions. Styling inspiration. Luxe venues. Dreamy love stories.

Gorgeous gowns. Styling ideas. Luxe venues. Love stories.

LOVE IS...

PARADISE FOUND

Wed in the warmth of the Mediterranean and discover an Eden that is exclusively yours. Say ‘I do’ in a tropical paradise and host your reception beneath a tree canopy lit by a thousand stars. UNIQUE

FEEL THE LOVE

As I sit to write, green shoots are piercing the earth, gardens are shrugging off their dull winter palette and buds are bursting into bloom on the trees. Spring is well and truly here, and our thoughts are turning to the joy of spring and summer weddings: those long days of hazy sunshine, the air heavy with luscious florals and the golden evenings making merry with the people who make your heart sing.

From fashions to flowers and scents to styling, this issue is filled with gorgeous content to stir the senses as well as excitement for the wedding-filled days ahead.

Nothing awakens the senses – or says wedding – quite like a carnival of flowers, and the latest trends see both pared-back and statement blooms scoring style points. See The Power of Petals for minimalist through to maximalist inspiration, while Garland Glossary is a handy guide to picking your perfect petals.

Your choice of flowers plays a key role in scenting your wedding and, in Scent With Love, we look at how fragrance can be used to elevate the sensory impact of your celebration while creating evocative memories for years to come. For Ally and Amo (above), one of the most vivid memories of their wedding was wandering through the reception space after the ceremony and taking in the awe-inspiring sight of their floral displays and the scent of roses.

Of course, the food and drink is key to elevating your guests’ experience. From lip-smacking rum concoctions to gin-laden fizzes, Jo Fitch at The Buffalo serves up some flavour-packed cocktail ideas in The Taste of Summer.

Then there are the visuals. Some brilliantly creative wedding stylists share their favourite looks for a wowworthy celebration in Looks We Love. The beauty of Cornwall itself, however, promises to be the star of your wedding day. In Pitch Perfect, we serve up some

expert advice, as well as some striking options, for planning a wedding under canvas in a glorious corner of the county.

And, as the new season was on the brink of bursting into bloom, we had the pleasure of spending the day shooting our bridal fashion story, The Look of Love. Blending minimalist gowns, crisp white blooms and a gorgeous nod to ‘60s style, the images showcase a seriously stunning collection of dresses in the lightfilled spaces of Chapel House, a charming Georgian townhouse by the sea in Penzance.

With hair and beauty tips, gorgeous styled shoots, Cornish honeymoon hotspots and so much more in these pages, grab a quiet moment for yourself in the spring sunshine and savour the sensory journey we’ve put together for you this issue.

Rebecca

Pura Vida Cornwall

bridalbuzz

Editor Rebecca Matthews

Deputy editor Lucy Lawrence

Chief features writer

Hannah May

Contributors

Rebecca Barallon, Becci Clubb, Rebecca Green, Jessica Kearney, Hazel Parsons, Nikki Sherriff, Sophie Walker

Design

Matt Sanwell, Design UNLTD

Advertising and management

Brendan Sleeman

Website management

Jenna Matthews

Finance

Morwenna Matthews

Publisher Wed Magazine

28 Reens Crescent

Heamoor Penzance Cornwall

TR18 3HW 01736 331456 wed@wedmagazine.co.uk wedmagazine.co.uk

Print Deltor Communications Ltd

Cover image

Photography Kirstin Prisk kirstinprisk.co.uk

Venue Chapel House chapelhousepz.co.uk

Styling & make-up

Suzi Winter suziwinter.co.uk

Hair Hair by Emma C hairbyemmac.net

Dress Watters, St Ives Bridal Boutique stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

Earrings The Lucky Sixpence theluckysixpence.co.uk

Model Tamina Swan

© wed magazine. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be published without written permission. While reasonable steps are taken to check the accuracy of the content within this publication, wed magazine cannot take any responsibility for any mistakes or omissions or the views of our contributors or advertisers.

All views expressed in wed are not necessarily those of wed magazine.

BE A FILMSTAR

Your wedding day will slip by like a dream – and ensuring the people, the details and all those cherished moments are remembered beautifully is such an important consideration during the planning process. Capturing your day with a natural documentary style, the highly experienced team at the award-winning I Do Film + Photos blend the resulting footage with cinematic imagery for honest yet stylish coverage that allows you to tell and relive your love story for years to come.

Combining years of TV and film industry experience (credits include Poldark, The Inbetweeners movies, Silent Witness and Downton Abbey) with their professional photography services, the team travels throughout the UK and abroad, ensuring that your wedding is captured with personality and panache.

“Our professional work ethic, combined with a creative attention to detail, means we are always evolving, learning and finding new shots and techniques to tell the couple’s personal love story,” says Rich Jones of I Do Film + Photos. This includes their original enterprise – ‘marryoke’ music videos – along with the newest addition to their repertoire: drone footage. With fully qualified, insured and CAAapproved pilots, pick from drone-only footage or the option to have the shots spliced into your wedding video for the full and wowworthy aerial view of your celebrations. Offering a range of services to suit your requirements, you’ll relish replaying your wedding time after time.

idofilmandphotos.co.uk

HEAVEN’S TENTS

Dreaming of a wedding with a showstopping and brilliantly creative difference? Sunset Tipis’ striking giant big hat kata tipis will instantly bring the wow factor to your wedding.

Waterproof and flame-retardant, the tipis can be pitched at a variety of picturesque locations in any weather for a wedding that’s as gorgeous inside as it is out, and uber-memorable to boot. As the sister company of Skybar Weddings, who provide stylish and top-quality stretch tents alongside years of hospitality experience, you can pick anything from a basic set-up with flooring and lighting to the whole spectacular shebang featuring furniture, cider bar, catering tent and dance floor.

Sunset Tipis’ range of packages are designed to cater for all sizes and types of wedding, from intimate or minimalist affairs in a single tipi to a festival-style party for 200 guests complete with indoor firepits in a sprawling quad tipi arrangement. Whatever your canvas wedding vision, it will become magically manifest with the professional services of this renowned Cornish company and their jaw-droppingly beautiful tipis.

sunsettipis.com

STYLE

12. NATURAL BEAUTY

Intricate details for a wedding inspired by nature

14. THE LOOK OF LOVE

Minimalist dresses, luxe accessories and a twist of retro style

24. WED’S WISH LIST

Dream dresses and lust-worthy shoes

30. MAKE THE CUT

Square necks, separates and the trending design features from the catwalks

36. WED’S BOUDOIR Bridal beauty tips and trends

38. SPRING STYLE

Beauty and hair inspiration for spring brides

42. BE JEWELLED

Stunning bridal jewels, from lab-grown diamonds to wave-like wedding rings

46. NATURAL WONDERS

Choose a ring inspired by the landscape you love

56. WORKING THE GROOM

Finishing touches for the man of the moment

62. COLOUR POP

Bright hues and fun-loving vibes for a coolly contemporary celebration

68. ENDURING LOVE

Timeless glamour meets modern country house wedding inspiration

74. EVER GREEN

Fresh greens and luxe touches for an enchanting garden elopement

FEATURES

50. SCENT WITH LOVE

How to perfume your wedding to perfection

61. WED’S HIP LIST

Fresh, fun and fabulous ways to add a unique touch to your day

79. PITCH PERFECT

How to make material your dream wedding under canvas

86. 20 SUSTAINABLE STYLE SWAPS

Top tips for minimising the impact of your wedding

91. THE TASTE OF SUMMER

Flavoursome cocktail ideas for a summer wedding

94. GARLAND GLOSSARY

Confusing your dahlias with your delphiniums? Get clued up on your big day blooms

98. THE POWER OF PETALS

Pared-back pretty or all-out statement? Take your pick from the latest flower trends

102. LOOKS WE LOVE

The wedding stylists share their favourite trends of the moment

109. SPEAK EASY

Make your speech memorable for the right reasons with these expert tips

144. SO NEAR, SO FAR

Top spots for a starry-eyed honeymoon in Cornwall

REGULARS

6. BRIDAL BUZZ

What’s new, what’s hot, what’s on

113. WED’S VENUES GUIDE

A guide to Cornwall’s finest wedding venues

153. GOT WED

WORDS OF LOVE…

“Do I love you? My god, if your love were a grain of sand, mine would be a universe of beaches.”

William Goldman, The Princess Bride

Newly-weds share a glimpse of their day

194. NOTES ON A WEDDING

Top tips for your planning pleasure

Emma Stoner

bridalbuzz

CITY CHIC

Nestled in the heart of Truro amidst flower-filled gardens dotted with ancient trees, The Alverton blends chic, contemporary styling with rich historic character, making for a unique and incredibly romantic wedding venue.

From its bell tower and slate roof to the arched mullioned windows, the Grade-II listed building is packed with charm. The Great Hall is the jewel in the crown of the four-star hotel, its dramatic vaulted ceilings and breathtaking 19th century architecture making for a wow-worthy setting to glide down the aisle and celebrate with up to 140 guests in the daytime and 180 for the evening reception.

From the bespoke feast of fine local produce fresh from the award-winning kitchen to the extensive selection of fine wines and handcrafted cocktails, everything is delivered in first-class style in this stylish setting. Step outside and you’ll find a sun-drenched terrace –the ideal spot for post-ceremony drinks – ivy-clad walls and curved archways uncovering hidden hideaways – perfect for stealing away with your beau to savour those cherished newlywed moments.

Stay on and savour this sanctuary in the city a while longer. From the executive suites to the garden view rooms, you and your guests are promised a luxurious stay with indulgences aplenty, such as roll-top baths, walk-in showers and plump feather cushions on four-poster beds.

thealverton.co.uk

WEDDING SUPERSTITION

A coin – traditionally a sixpence in Britain – should be sewn into the hem of the wedding dress or worn in the bride’s or groom’s shoe to bring good luck to the happy couple.

PHOTO FINISH

When it comes to your wedding photography, you’ll want a champion of romance to capture your day in all its joy and authenticity. This is where Hannah Wilde comes into her own. A selfconfessed sucker for love, the photographer and videographer immerses herself fully into every celebration to create an album you’ll treasure for a lifetime. “I’m a big romantic at heart. Having grown up travelling from a young age, I fell in love with people-watching, art, music, cinema and the magic of storytelling,” she says. “Over the years I’ve developed a natural, authentic, artistic and candid photography style that is, it seems, perfectly suited to wedding photography.”

Adopting a relaxed, fun and spontaneous approach, Hannah will help you feel instantly at ease as she blends into the background while facilitating the most spectacular shots possible. “I’ll definitely be encouraging you to live to the fullest and climb the tors, kiss in the storm, swim in the sea or run, twirl and dance into the sunset – and if you’re anything like my past clients, it is very likely we will become good friends,” she enthuses.

Creating images that are emotive and cinematic, Hannah also offers videography and analogue film photography for couples wanting a more timeless ‘Kodak-style’ aesthetic. In addition, she has introduced using a drone (with very minimal interference on the day) for both photography and film for a more modern take on wedding photography, which evokes her love for film to wow-worthy effect. hannah-wilde.com

Katie Goff Olivia WR Fine Art Photography

Olivia WR Fine Art Photography

Charlotte & Dave by Mark Shaw Photography

WONDER ON THE WATER’S EDGE

When it comes to waterside wedding venues, The Greenbank is one of Cornwall’s finest. Situated on Falmouth harbour, the views across the River Fal are far-reaching and picturesque, while the gentle lap of water and chug of passing boats adds to the soul-stirring romance of the coastal setting. The only hotel in the region to have its own private pontoons and moorings, just imagine the romance of arriving at your wedding by boat, celebrating your marriage with a river cruise drinks reception or sailing away together as newlyweds.

Dating back to the 17th century, the heritage of the charm-filled hotel has been brilliantly blended with contemporary comforts and luxe accents to create a stylish waterside sanctuary. You can expect deep soft beds, decadent cocktails on the terrace and elegant cuisine served alongside sweeping vistas across the sea.

The venue takes a bespoke approach to each celebration, tailoring everything from the ceremony to the menu to your vision. And, when the evening festivities are over, retreat to luxury of The Florence Suite, complete with a plush lounge, roll-top bath and private balcony with panoramic vistas of the harbour. Picture drawing back the curtains on your first morning of married life to see the sun glinting on the water before a leisurely breakfast served to the murmur of the sea. Heavenly.

greenbank-hotel.co.uk

WIN AN EARLYMOON AT LUSTY GLAZE!

If you’re newly engaged and keen to revel in your nearly-wed status at one of Cornwall’s most romantic wedding venues, then we’ve just the competition for you! We’ve teamed up with Lusty Glaze Beach Weddings to host a giveaway like no other: a twonight ‘earlymoon’ in their beautiful beachside bolthole, The Cottage.

Escape the planning stresses during this magnificent mini-break at the sublime north coast venue, where you can enjoy a sneaky sea dip straight from your accommodation or relish a sunset over the ocean as you toast the end of a laidback day. Not only will you spend two blissful nights at the water’s edge, you’ll also have the chance to explore the award-winning coastal venue and discuss the feasibility of hosting your own beach celebrations here with the dedicated weddings team. For your chance to win, visit wedmagazine.co.uk/wedding-competitions.html.

lustyglaze.co.uk

Terms and conditions: This competition is a collaboration between Lusty Glaze Beach and Wed Magazine. The competition closes at 11.59pm on Sunday 23rd April 2023. A winner will be chosen at random from all the form entries in the week commencing 24th April 2023. The prize is a two-night stay in The Cottage for two people from Sunday 12th May to Tuesday 14th May. The prize cannot be exchanged for other dates, prizes or cash. The winner must make contact with Lusty Glaze to claim their prize within seven days of announcement, otherwise they will forfeit the prize and another winner will be drawn at random. Lusty Glaze’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

WORDS OF LOVE…

“Romance is the icing, but love is the cake.” Unknown

Nick Bailey Nick Bailey

natural beauty

From finely crafted florals to the daintiest butterflies, fill your wedding with the most exquisite embellishments inspired by nature

compiled by Rebecca Matthews

1. The dreamy blend of colour, the hand-embroidered leaf detailing, the way the shimmering butterflies rest on the bodice – this is couture of the most head-turning variety by Hermione de Paula. hermionedepaula.com

2. A 1930s vintage print inspired the intricate embroidered bouquets of flowers in this gown by Needle & Thread. needleandthread.com

3. Adorned with a carnival of larks, butterflies and climbing florals, this hand-beaded cape by Gibson Bespoke is a majestic celebration of nature. gibsonbespoke.co.uk

4. Hand-painted roses and leaves and thousands of tiny glass seed Miyuki beads in sorbet shades make this floral crown by Clare Lloyd a stunning finishing piece. clarelloyd.co.uk

5. We love everything about these Harriet Wilde shoes, from the gold foliage and blossom embellishment to the fact they can be customised for a bespoke touch. harrietwilde.com

6. A captivating tangle of rose brambles and dainty leaves set around a beautiful lilac spinel and tiny sapphires, this ring by Isabella Day has the fairytale factor in abundance. isabelladay.co.uk

7. Cornwall-based jeweller Victoria Walker crafts exquisite kinetic jewellery featuring tiny articulated flowers that emerge and unfold from within. The symbol of new beginnings, this daffodil locket is an heirloom-in-the-making – perfect for spring brides. vwjewellery.co.uk

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5. OXI Photography

Create your perfect day at Boconnion, a unique wedding venue in Cornwall, where no dream is too ambitious.

Boconnion is a secluded 150 acre estate featuring a Manor House, a farmhouse, a reception barn and numerous traditional outbuildings, all set within acres of well-maintained gardens overlooking miles of unspoilt rolling countryside.

Whether you’re looking for a formal affair or a relaxed weekend, Boconnion is a fusion of rustic Cornish charm and traditional elegance and gives you the total freedom to celebrate, relax or party in whatever style suits you.

Good availability for weddings of all sizes in 2023 and 2024 Contact: weddings@boconnion.co.uk www.boconnion.co.uk

the look of love

Charlie Brear, St Ives Bridal Boutique Headband The Lucky Sixpence X Ness Bridal Earrings The Lucky Sixpence Flowers Perdie’s Flowers

Perched on the edge of Penzance, the light-filled climes of Chapel House make a dream canvas for crisp, clean fashions, clusters of creamy blooms and a twist of ‘60s style

photography Kirstin Prisk styling Suzi Winter

Charlie Brear, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings Victoria Louise Accessories

Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns Earrings Victoria Louise Accessories

Made With Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique Flowers Perdie’s Flowers

Made With Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings The Lucky Sixpence Flowers Perdie’s Flowers

Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns Earrings The Lucky Sixpence

Watters, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings The Lucky Sixpence

Charlie Brear, St Ives Bridal Boutique Headband The Lucky Sixpence X Ness Bridal Earrings The Lucky Sixpence Flowers Perdie’s Flowers

Photography Kirstin Prisk kirstinprisk.co.uk

Venue Chapel House chapelhousepz.co.uk

Hair Hair by Emma C hairbyemmac.net

Styling & make-up Suzi Winter using Bobbi Brown suziwinter.co.uk

Flowers Perdie’s Flowers perdiesflowers.co.uk

Model Tamina Swan

Stockists

Bliss Bridal Gowns blissbridalgowns.co.uk

St Ives Bridal Boutique stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

The Lucky Sixpence theluckysixpence.co.uk

Victoria Louise victoria-louise.co.uk

Six Stories sixstories.co.uk

Charlie Brear, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings Victoria Louise Accessories Bow

wed’s wish list

DRESSES TO IMPRESS

An emporium of bridal loveliness by the sea, St Ives Bridal Boutique is home to a collection of seriously chic bridal wear from top designers such as Charlie Brear and Alma Novia, along with the ever-romantic designs by Made With Love. The latest offerings from the lauded Australian label blend modern cuts with feminine features and form-sculpting silhouettes for swoon-worthy, uber-seductive style. We love the pleated tulle bodice and puffy sleeves of Pippa; the elegant draping and showstopping train of Lily and the modern take on the classic ballgown that is Florence, with its deep plunging neckline and statement skirt. Book your appointment for the not-to-be-missed trunk show taking place between 3rd and 14th May.

The boutique is also now home to The Little White Dress Edit: a selection of fashion-forward frocks from Watters that ooze playfulness while showcasing the most contemporary design elements. Think mini dresses with deep plunging necklines and puff sleeves, micros in eye-catching floral lace, and chic short gowns with a hint of glamour via oversized back bows, off-the-shoulder sleeves and romantic ruffles.

Should you wish to pore over yet more dreamy dresses, Love Story Bride’s couture collection is awash with stunning silhouettes combined with the British label’s signature air of high romance and contemporary flair. From contoured crepe gowns to skin-baring open backs, whimsical tulle skirts and leaf lace embroidery, expect a heady dose of modern luxe designs all set to become instant classics. stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

From dreamy dresses to seriously chic shoes, here’s our pick of the latest bridal must-haves

Lucy Lawrence & Hannah May

SUMMER LOVIN’

Evoking summer vibes that whisper hints of cocktails on the lawn and long evenings of dappled sunshine, Penelope Chilvers’ new Bridal Atelier collection of espadrilles are a comfortable and effortlessly elegant choice for brides and bridesmaids alike. Handcrafted in Spain, choose from soft satin, bold stripes and pretty embroidery for a coolly Mediterranean feel to your W-day ensemble, perfect for a garden or beach wedding. penelopechilvers.com

PEARL PERFECTION

Designer of some of the prettiest bridal shoes we’ve ever seen, Freya Rose’s new Chelsea collection fuses clean lines with its signature handcrafted mother of pearl detailing. Pair the strappy heels with the coordinating selection of long drop earrings and seed and baroque pearl hoops, delicate necklaces and finely detailed bracelets for a pearly and oh-so pretty bridal ensemble.

freyarose.com

GOOD MORNING

Come the morning of your wedding, there’s nothing lovelier than being with your bride tribe and sharing some bubbles in your favourite coordinating sleepwear! Rewritten has teamed up with artist Rose England to create a capsule collection of eco-conscious bridesmaid nightwear for the ultimate wedding morning look, featuring a cami pyjama set, kimono robe, eye mask and hair scrunchie in a bold floral print. And the best bit? As well as looking super-stylish, the items are made from fabric offcuts to avoid waste. wearerewritten.com

MINI-ME MOMENT

Australian label Grace Loves Lace has long been synonymous with lust-worthy bridal gowns, but when it comes to bringing adorable to your big day, these little flower girl dresses are picture-perfect. Made entirely from wedding dress offcuts, they’re created by hand from French laces and Spanish trims, and are designed with longevity in mind, perfect for when your little free spirit wants to wear it time and time again. graceloveslace.co.uk

1.

TRUE ROMANCE

Situated in the heart of Truro, Frocks & Frills offers one of the largest selections of gowns in Cornwall, with more than 400 wedding and bridesmaids’ dresses to try on, as well as a huge selection of accessories and mother of the bride/groom outfits.

Providing a relaxed and stress-free environment, it’s the ideal spot to gather your bride squad and try on the latest dresses from designers such as Romantica, Pure by Romantica, Silhouette by Romantica, Sonsie and Jennifer Wren. From illusion lace necklines and glitter detailing to soft-as-air tulle skirts, the latest arrivals offer classic elegance through to whimsical romance in a wide range of sizes. Choose from the A-line silhouette and plunging neckline of June; the floaty skirt, floral bodice and detachable sleeves of Josie; the fit-and-flare cut and floral lace of Jade and the dreamy light sleeves and summer-ready style of Perryn. What’s more, brides on a short timeframe will be able to choose from an extensive collection of off-the-peg dresses. frocksfrills.co.uk

BRIDAL BLISS

Located on the Nansledan development on the edge of Newquay, the ethos of Bliss Bridal Gowns is clear: to make every bride feel beautiful in her own skin. And, with a curated collection of gowns by Rebecca Ingram, Ella Rosa, GAIA Bridal and Abella by Allure at the rails, owner Tracy Ashton promises just that.

Designed in the UK, GAIA Bridal focuses on creating highly wearable yet showstopping looks in fine fabrics, with hand-applied beadwork and luxe feels, while Ella Rosa by Kenneth Winston takes a modern approach to the traditional bridal gown, with its elegant collection in dreamy lace and satin.

Having recently arrived in-store, the latest dresses by Abella by Allure are currently captivating brides seeking a heady dose of glamour with their iconic silhouettes, playful accents and dazzling beading and lacework. For budget-savvy brides with a penchant for timelessly beautiful designs and free-spirited romance, the new collection by Rebecca Ingram is a winner. Highlights include the ethereal lace tulle of Matilda; the classic satin cut of Clover; the crepe halter style chic of Frida and the Hollywood vibes of Sophie, with its luxe fabric and sweetheart neckline.

blissbridalgowns.co.uk

make the cut

From square necks and separates to back-baring gowns,

Cornwall’s bridal boutiques

words Hannah May

It was House of Givenchy founder Hubert de Givenchy who once declared: “The dress must follow the body of a woman, not the body following the shape of the dress”. In short, the cut is key.

Your wedding attire should fit and appear as a second skin, blending style and comfort to make you look and feel your best. The way the fabric falls, moves, skirts and supports is crucial for an ensemble that is unfailingly ‘you’ while also reflecting your individual sense of style, be it modern fashionista, classic bride or Grecian goddess – all of which start with the silhouette.

From clean lines and cut-outs to sculpted shapes, the way your frock is cut is instrumental to achieving your overarching look while ensuring you’re able to spend the day dressed to perfection. Here are today’s hottest types –and how to wear them...

we’ve got the lowdown on the trending design features gracing

Abella by Allure, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Thigh-high slits

Show off your pins or a statement pair of shoes with a dance-ready, aisle-walk stunner that is the modern bridal gown with a slit. High, leg-baring cuts epitomise old-school Hollywood glamour and are going nowhere. Though side slits ooze sensuality and are ever popular amongst this year’s bridal collections, it’s the front slit that is currently making a move on the most-wanted list.

Pick from wrap dresses, clingy crepe skirts, satin columns, silk Mikados and chiffon A-lines with a slit for the sultriest bridal style. And should you seek extra embellishment, feathers, bows, florals, sequins, scalloped lace and ribbons are just the fashion-forward ticket.

High/low plunging necklines

Nothing spells seduction quite like a deep plunging neckline that exposes the décolletage and skims the bustline. Whether you’re in the market for a subtle, sweetheart version of the trend or a risqué J.Lo-style navel-deep cut, the skin-baring style remains very much en vogue. Cleavage-covering options such as nude lace and sheer panelling will make buxom brides feel more secure, while plummeting sharp V-necks smack of daring and oh-so sexy high fashion.

Alternatively, regal styles remain another bridal mainstay, with high halters, mock necks and turtlenecks all lending an air of romantic sophistication. Lace, crochet, organza (especially with pleated detailing), dotted tulle and ruffles are all the rage, while illusion necklines, hand-sewn beading, sequins, long sleeves and botanical elements will all up the bridal modishness.

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Love Story Bride, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Jennifer Wren, Frocks & Frills

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Ladybird, Bridal Gossip

Rebecca Ingram,

Bliss Bridal Gowns

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Pure, Frocks & Frills

Love Story Bride, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Victoria Kay, Coastal Bridal

Love Story Bride, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Pure, Frocks & Frills

Victoria Kay, Coastal Bridal

Square necks

No doubt prompted by the modern minimalist movement that favours clean lines and sharp cuts, square necks are another gorgeous bridal staple.

They might be simple, but they’re also incredibly striking. From regency styles to reimagined ‘90s-wear, the humble square neck is causing quite the sartorial stir. Go tailored with long sleeves paired with a fit-and-flare skirt, boho with lace and a fishtail skirt, vintage with a beaded fringe flapper dress or uber-contemporary with a square cut (boned) bodice atop a short skirt.

Low backs

Since it’s your back that receives much of the all-eyeson-you attention during your aisle walk and ceremony, why not make it the focus of your fashion choices?

Backless, open and low-backed styles are making bold waves on the runways for their unapologetic sexiness and haute couture edge.

Part of their beauty is that they work with every type of dress design, from frothy fairytale frocks to slinky sheaths, high-necked A-lines and micro minis – making them both versatile and endlessly alluring. And the lower you go, the better, with ultra-low-cut backs skimming the base of the spine proving a particularly enticing option. Drapery, asymmetry, bow or tie detailing, keyholes and cowl and portrait backs are all making the cut.

Abella by Allure, Bliss Bridal Gowns

True Bride, Coastal Bridal

Ladybird, Bridal Gossip

Ladybird Bridal Gossip

Charlie Brear, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

True Bride, Coastal Bridal

Made With Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Made With Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Abella by Allure, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Helping Brides Love Their Reflection.

Bridal Gossip is an award winning bridal boutique in Wadebridge, Cornwall where brides feel comfortable and relaxed. A place where brides can discover their own shape, feel confident in different styles, and fall in love with their own reflections.

www.bridalgossip.co.uk

07476 786 731

1 Egloshayle Road, Wadebridge PL27 6BX

Coastal Bridal

Creating life moments and memories

With stunning dresses to try on from size 8 to 34, prices start at £545 and go to £1950 and we offer a fully bespoke made to order service.

Voted best bridal boutique in Cornwall 2022

Cut-outs

Cut-outs are a contemporary way to customise and update any ensemble, providing a way to flash some extra skin while retaining your gown’s silhouette. Instantly lending a seductive air of interest, cut-outs range from barely-there tiny waist slits to bold revealing open backs and daring keyhole necklines.

Another benefit is their versatility, as they work with all fabrics and can appear practically anywhere on the dress, from the ribcage and midriff to the lower back and bust. Skirt slits, nude and sheer panels, and criss-cross or T-shaped backs beautifully nod to the trend, while sharp asymmetric side cut-outs and peeka-boo styles add a daring edge.

Separates

With the industry continuing to move away from fast fashion towards more sustainable alternatives, separates are a conscientious yet à la mode choice. Mix-andmatch styles can be reworked, reworn and recycled (and easily sourced secondhand), while also providing an individually created look.

Pair an heirloom bodice with a statement ballgown skirt, a beaded lace crop top with flared trousers, simple silk camisole with ruffled mini skirt, or layer multiple pieces for a look loaded with personality and meaning. Wedding sets and two-pieces also tick the transformational-wear box, so you might want to combine a skirt, cape and veil for the ceremony before ditching all three for your party-ready sparkly jumpsuit reveal.

Separates allow you to dictate and emphasise every type of cut – from the neck, back and waistline to the skirt/trouser/pantsuit (or even bridal shorts) silhouette. And after all is said and done, they can be worn time and time again.

Stockists

Bliss Bridal Gowns blissbridalgowns.co.uk

Bridal Gossip bridalgossip.co.uk

Coastal Bridal coastalbridal.co.uk

Frocks & Frills frocksfrills.co.uk

St Ives Bridal Boutique stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns

True Bride, Coastal Bridal

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Jennifer Wren, Frocks & Frills

Romantica, Frocks & Frills

Ladybird, Bridal Gossip

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Charlie Brear, St Ives Bridal Boutique

You Deserve To Feel Special

Situated on the prestigious Nansledan development on the outskirts of Newquay, Cornwall, we are a wedding dress boutique that makes every bride feel special and looked after. Our boutique houses a curated range of stunning dresses that will make you feel beautiful in your own skin.

Let

Authorised stockist of: • ROMANTICA • JENNIFER WREN • PURE • SILHOUETTE • SONSIE

Available to order in sizes 4 to 32+

Large selection of ‘off the rail’ ex-sample dresses at massively reduced prices in sizes 8 to 28. Bridesmaids dresses available to order in a wide range of colours and sizes as well as mother of the bride/ groom, prom, evening and cocktail dresses off the peg.

Photo: Verity Wescott photography for Wed

wed’s boudoir

Tips, trends and top products for beauty junkie brides

words Lucy Lawrence

here comes the sun

Bring sun-kissed colour to your W-day look with the Sunflower Wonder collection from SUQQU. Inspired by the energy evoked by sunflowers, the latest collection from the Japanese beauty brand is awash with vibrant and beautifully blendable colours with a touch of smokiness to create a radiant and sophisticated look, perfect for early summer. We love the Signature Colour eyeshadows, the warm and cool palettes inspired by sunflower petals and leaves. The Pure Colour Blush offers a pearl-rich blush and highlighter to enhance your features, while complementing the collection’s vivid hues. Complete with Tone Touch Eyes in ochre and dark brown and Vibrant Rich Lipstick in natural beige and a soft, orange-brown for a chic, modern finish, you’ll be bringing the sunshine from the inside out. suqqu.com

lip service

Look forward to luscious lips in an instant with the new lip duo from ICONIC London. A versatile nude liner available in six shades, the Fuller Pout Sculpting Lip Liner can be worn as an all-over colour, underneath your lipstick or as a lip contour for a fuller-looking pout. We recommend wearing it with Melting Touch Lip Balm for a gorgeously kissable sheen. Available in five nude-based shades, the nourishing formula offers elegant colour and intense hydration for up to eight hours – minus the stickiness – for an irresistibly pretty pout. iconiclondoninc.com

pins of perfection

Whether you’ve chosen a trending little white dress or thigh slit, get your pins into aisle-ready condition with the Perfect Legs range from This Works. Designed to enhance your natural beauty as well as deliver long-term skin benefits thanks to vitamin-rich super blend ingredients, the collection includes the nourishing 100% Natural Scrub and Body Butter, both enriched with essential oils. We love Gradual Tan for a streak-free holiday glow and the award-winning Skin Miracle: a luscious serum infused with vitamins and natural caramel to repair, even skin tone and add a sunkissed glow. thisworks.com

glow on the go

A must-have for your bridal bag, Bobbi Brown’s Highlighting Powder is a multi-tasking marvel, delivering a naturally radiant finish to your skin. Fusing the benefits of a gel and powder, the pearl-infused illuminator can be dusted on the cheekbones, eyes or anywhere you want a soft glow, or applied wet for a high-impact finish. Housed in a chic compact, we love the suit-all shade of Pink Glow for a luminous W-day look. bobbibrown.co.uk

HUSTYNS RESORT CORNWALL

Romantic rural weddings in the Cornish countryside

Celebrate in our country resort set amidst 90 acres of lush grounds and woodland in the rolling St Breock Downs, complete with leisure facilities and accommodation weddings@hustyns.co.uk www.hustyns.co.uk

Use the fresh start of the season as beauty inspiration for a spring wedding

words Becci Clubb

Spring is all about new beginnings. The mild weather, drawn-out evenings and buds and blossoms all make for a perfect season to start your new beginning as a married couple.

When it comes to hair and beauty for spring brides, there are limitless options. From barely-there make-up to a bright pink lipstick, and long flowing curls finished with fresh flowers to a sleek updo, it can be hard to know where to start. We’re here to help you whittle down the options, lock in a beauty routine and find your spring style.

Hair The Updo Girl / Make-up Laura Le Page Bridal Makeup

Dress Kate Walker Bridal / Photography Tara Statton

PREP AND PRIME

Bridal beauty doesn’t begin when you sit down to be pampered by hair and make-up artists on the morning of the big day. Preparations start in the months prior. Around six months before the wedding, start a daily skin and haircare routine. This is especially important for spring brides, as you have harsh weather conditions over the winter to contend with. Nail down the products that best suit your skin’s needs and use them morning and night.

Beauty top tips

What you know

As you head closer to the wedding date, don’t be tempted to try a new product, as you run the risk of a skin reaction – stick with your tried-and-tested routine and you’ll be on the path to radiant bridal beauty.

Stay hydrated

Hydrated skin equals glowing skin. Drink plenty of water and include a great moisturiser in your beauty routine to create the perfect canvas for make-up application. Try applying L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Cream (uk.loccitane.com) at night and wake up with radiant, supple skin in the morning. Don’t forget to moisturise your hands too, ready for the exchanging of rings – try Burt’s Bees Moisturising Botanical Hand Cream with shea butter, watermelon and mint (burtsbees.co.uk).

Banish dark circles

The best remedy for dark circles is getting a good night’s sleep, but wedding planning can leave you lying awake at night. Start using an eye cream to help treat dark circles, fine lines and puffiness. Germaine De Capiccini’s Timexpert SRNS Illuminating Detox Eye Formula (germaine-de-capuccini.co.uk) is an award-winning eye cream that will leave you looking fresh-faced.

Pucker up

Soft, kissable lips are a must on your wedding day! Keep your lips in the best condition by using a lip scrub a couple of times a week (we love Milani Rose Sugar Lip Scrub (milanimakeup. co.uk) and wearing lip balm regularly.

Care for your hair

Dedicate an evening each week to a haircare routine, using a hair mask such as L’Occitane Intensive Repair Hair Mask. Daily, try to use styling products like the Jerome Russell Bstyled range (bblondehair.co.uk/bstyled) to keep your hair in tip-top condition, and have your final colour treatment and haircut two weeks before the wedding to allow it time to settle. Now is not the time to change your hairstyle! If you want a new style for the wedding, have your hair cut before your hair trials so that your stylist knows what they’re working with ahead of the big day.

Hair & make-up KH Bridal Photography Jake Timms

Hair & make-up KH Bridal Photography Verity Westcott

Hair Anna Ingram / Make-up Georgina Yates / Flowers Hayley Scott Blooms / Photography Travel and the Girls

BRIDAL BEAUTY

While a bridal beauty look is always an individual choice, the aim should be to look the very best version of you. If you always wear full make-up, don’t choose your wedding day to try a minimal make-up for look for the first time. Likewise, if you don’t usually wear much make-up, a heavy coverage foundation and dark smoky eye might leave you feeling out of sorts. Have a make-up trial with your chosen make-up artist ahead of the wedding day or, if you have decided to do your own make-up, get your products well in advance so you can test them and have a trial of your own.

Spring beauty looks

Au naturel

Keep your make-up look neutral with nude tones. Ask your makeup artist to create a light coverage and opt for a soft pink blush and a natural nude lipstick in a matte finish to create barely-there make-up.

Bright lips

Keep your overall beauty look soft but switch out a nude lip for a bright pop of colour, from bold candy pink to rich coral. Echo the pops of colour emerging from nature and reflect the colours from your bouquet in your lip colour.

Dewy skin

Use an illuminating primer under your foundation to achieve glowing, dewy skin. Add shimmering highlighter across your cheekbones and finish the look with a high-shine lip gloss for freshfaced bridal beauty.

Smoky eye

Use browns, nudes and a neutral shimmer to create a smoky eye that’s in keeping with the season. Use a brow product like Benefit’s Fluff Up Brow Wax (benefitcosmetics.com) to enhance your brows. The softer colours and natural brows will make your eyes pop, while keeping the overall look soft and feminine.

HAIR FLARE

With so much inspiration around and so many things to consider, deciding how you want to wear your hair on your wedding day can be difficult. If you are booking a hair stylist, have a trial and pin down the look you want ahead of the big day. This will help you with timing for the morning preparations too.

Spring hairstyle ideas

Long and flowing

Wear long locks down, styled with a big, bouncy blow dry. Add volume at the roots and, if you have fine hair but want to wear it down, consider adding hair extensions to make your locks look thicker. Finish your look with a flower crown.

Half-up, half-down

If your hair tends to fall a bit flat when it’s down but you like the look of loose waves, opt for a half-up, half-down style. Having your hair pinned up and away from your face will add volume and height.

Sleek updo

Style your hair into a perfectly arranged updo. Keep the look sleek by pulling the hair away from your face into a low bun for a fresh finish to your aisle style.

Twisted updo

Embrace a romantic updo, created with twists and plaits. A braided style is a favourite with brides as it creates texture and volume. Ask your stylist to weave flowers or foliage into the plaits.

Hair & make-up KH Bridal Photography Jake Timms

Hair & make-up KH Bridal

Hair & make-up KH Bridal / Photography Jake Timms

Hair Hair by Emma C / Model Ellie Burbridge

Hair Hair by Emma C / Photography Jessica Apps Hair Hair by Emma C / Photography Ellie Burbridge

BE JEWELLED

words Lucy Lawrence & Rebecca Matthews

GIRL’S BEST FRIEND

Sustainable and ethical choices are foremost in couples’ jewellery buying decisions today – and Drakes in Plymouth now offers an exquisite range of lab-grown diamonds for brides and grooms-to-be to peruse by appointment.

“Lab-grown diamonds have been available in the jewellery sector in recent years, but 2022 marked a much wider introduction to the UK audience,” says Abi Davies from Drakes. While the idea of synthetic diamonds was first raised at the end of the 18th century, it wasn’t until the 1940s that research began on whether diamonds could be synthetically produced.

As their name suggests, these diamonds are grown in a laboratory to be chemically identical to natural diamonds that are mined from the ground. Their popularity is increasing thanks to several factors, including their cost and eco credentials. In fact, they start from around 60% cheaper than mined diamonds, meaning you may be able to select a higher grade of colour, clarity, and carat for your budget – or perhaps consider a diamond pendant and earrings set.

“The arrival of lab-grown diamonds into the bridal jewellery market makes fine jewellery sets for your wedding and beyond so much more affordable,” says Abi. “There’s no doubt that the price and size benefits will make a lot of bride’s jewellery dreams achievable.”

The investment or resale value of lab-grown diamonds is still unclear, while mined diamonds are unlikely to lose their value or desirability, due to their finite nature as a natural resource. However, in allowing brides to complete their wedding day look with a stunning flourish of sparkle while keeping within the parameters of budget, eco credentials and style, lab-grown diamonds are a welcome addition to Drakes’ swoon-worthy collections.

Two new Italian jewellery brands have also arrived in-store. The stunning jewels by Italian sculptress and painter Annamaria Cammilli feature fluid three-dimensional forms in gold and diamonds, while Giovanni Raspini creates bold and strikingly beautiful pieces in silver. Perfect as statement pieces for your bridal ensemble as well as special gifts, it’s an exciting time to visit Drakes and plan your wedding day jewels.

The lab-grown diamonds are available to view by appointment; please contact the store.

drakesjewellers.co.uk

From exquisite lab-grown diamonds to celestial wedding rings, prepare to be captivated by these aisle-ready creations

For a wedding to remember

Intimate ceremonies and bespoke harbourside celebrations overlooking the bay

STAR OF THE SHOW

Artisan goldsmith Isabella Day of The Remarkable Goldsmiths crafts extraordinarily beautiful pieces from her Dartmouth studio, making them a dream choice for your forever jewellery. Passionate about creating jewels packed with personal meaning, Isabella designs and makes everything from engagement rings and wedding rings to pendants, bangles, and earrings – and we’re head over heels in love with her star map rings.

Showing the stars in the sky at an exact moment in time, from an exact location, you can choose any cherished moment – whether it’s your first meeting or the date of your engagement – to have engraved onto your ring. You might even commission a pendant – perhaps set with a diamond or birthstone and complete with an engraving on the back – for a special celestial finishing touch for your bridal look.

theremarkablegoldsmiths.co.uk

SPIRIT OF THE SEA

Presenting a beautifully unique trove of pieces, Naomi Lewis of Found Treasure designs coastal-inspired jewellery of the most coveted kind from her Cornish workshop. Endlessly inspired by her coastal home and the changing tides, Naomi infuses her creations with a rich sense of meaning and place, creating lovingly made pieces from fine metals such as white gold, yellow gold and platinum.

Pick a piece to complete your bridal ensemble, to gift to your bridesmaids or commission Naomi to create your wedding set, taking the ocean as her muse. “I work with my clients to design rings that represent their style and love story with a coastal theme,” she explains. “I enjoy working with fine metals such as gold and precious stones to create high quality pieces that will last a lifetime. The finest details are important to me and I try to convey my clients’ uniqueness through my work.” Naomi sources sapphires and opals from ethical suppliers in Australia, and diamonds and emeralds from Hatton Garden, so no matter your story or location your ring will be created with continuous quality from around the world. Through consideration of all the elements, Naomi will build a mood board to begin the creation process, which results in stunning bespoke pieces designed and made to reflect each wearer and their story.

You might fall for the fluid curves of her Tidal Ring or the hand-polished smoothness of her Signet Ring, which can be personalised with engravings. Alternatively, showcase your connection with the ocean via a bespoke 9ct gold sea glass necklace, shell pendant or seaweed necklace, made by hand using pieces of seaweed found on the shoreline. Add a pair of dainty hoops with Naomi’s signature droplet-like shapes and curves for the perfectly on-point finishing touch.

foundtreasurejewellery.com

NATURAL WONDERS

Andy Warhol noted that: “land really is the best art” and, indeed, Mother Nature has served as muse for creatives since the dawn of time, inspiring everyone from painter to poet with her wild beauty.

Today, wedding world is as beguiled by her as ever. Nature-filled nuptials, zero-waste events and outdoor celebrations all embrace our love affair with landscape, and nowhere is that more palpable than here in the South-west. Dramatic moorlands, sweeping countryside and ancient woodlands surrounded by the ocean not only provide the most romantic backdrops

for weddings, but inspire a host of details – including the wedding rings.

The region’s jewellery designer-makers are clearly enamoured by nature, presenting collections that capture the colours and textures of their surrounds –including bespoke rings rooted in a sense of place.

“The jewellery we make is inspired by our natural surroundings, and nature plays a part in our making process – from the natural gemstones we use to the beach sand we cast in, and the hardwoods we inlay,” says Jamila Hirtenstein from Justin Duance. “Often it

feels more of a collaboration between the maker and the natural materials we are working with.”

Justin uses sand collected from couples’ favourite places to cast the bands, along with other elements including metal (like sentimental gold), wood (from a poignant item or place) and gemstones (such as vintage diamonds or sea-coloured stones). In doing so, the rings bring to life each couple’s unique love story with his signature ‘rough’ style that evokes the shapes and tones of nature.

When it comes to choosing your wedding jewellery, be inspired by nature and choose a ring that speaks of a landscape you love

words Hannah May

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Emily Nixon’s jewellery offers another stunning example of how landscape directly impacts the feel and look of a maker’s work. Sea-worn surfaces, organic shapes and tumbled finishes are the keynotes of her pieces, which are cast in a range of metals (including refined and recycled) using the traditional lost-wax process. The result is fabulously tactile pieces that curve and twist like tangled knots of seaweed and rough stacks of stone and rock.

“The refined, fluid, molten texture featured in Erin’s jewellery collections are inspired by the rolling hills and rugged tors of Dartmoor where she spends her weekends,” says Janie Wolverson of jeweller, Erin Cox. “Her distinctive bubble collection is reminiscent of the shimmering waters of the local rivers and seas. Delicate hues of blue, green and heather found in Erin’s natural sapphires, spinels and aquamarines are a beautiful way of capturing the tones of the landscape further.”

Working in Fairtrade and eco (recycled) gold and platinum while hand-picking rare and untreated stones to create contemporary yet fine art jewellery, both Erin’s signature collection and her sister venture, The Molten Wedding Ring Company – a capsule collection of hand-cast bands that can be individually customised – represent her wild surrounds to spellbinding effect.

Meanwhile, West Cornwall’s coastline is uniquely captured in Stephanie Stevens’ striking creations. Her one-off jewellery experiences allow couples to follow and co-design their rings at each stage of production, while the influence of the ocean that laps just beyond her St Ives studio is evident in every eye-catching piece, whether incorporating the outline of the coastline into her designs or local sand via bespoke inlays. From her waveshaped rings to spectacular bands set with ethically sourced Ocean Diamonds, Stephanie’s jewellery echoes her surrounds with personalised flair.

The patterns and shapes found in nature also comprise a key source of inspiration for artisan goldsmiths Isabella Day and Ford Hallam at The Remarkable Goldsmiths in Dartmouth. “We feel very inspired by those repeating curves we find in sand textures and waves,” says Isabella. “We use a very rare technique of Japanese engraving that uses tiny punches and chisels to make individual marks, so a lot of our work is to do with the textures and patterns you see in macro: the tiny grains of sand or the ripples in water.”

As master alloy makers with 28 different colours of gold, The Remarkable Goldsmiths can capture the gorgeous colours of nature in their jewellery. “I try to match stones to metal colours,” explains Isabella. “For example, we have a new Japanese green gold alloy and I plan to bring out a range of wedding rings in this, some with stones that reflect its beautiful colour.” Having recently mapped the outline of Mothecombe beach to engrave onto a

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ring, Isabella often uses lines from the landscape to stamp place and personality onto a piece, while everything from standing stones to the texture of bark provide further starting points for the duo’s beautiful work.

Dartmoor also weaves its way into the breathtaking creations by jeweller Corrinne Eira Evans, who uses recycled precious metals and responsibly sourced diamonds and sapphires in unusual cuts to create her one-of-a-kind pieces. “Each ring is hand-stamped with an old setting tool to create patterns evoking the organic landscape of my surrounding moorland of Dartmoor,” she explains. The result is a selection of textured bands in platinum, 18ct yellow or white gold, silver or oxidised (blackened) silver, with the option of added sparkle via a sapphire or smattering of flush-set brilliant-cut diamonds.

If your heart lies in a special corner of the natural world – whether it’s the wild beauty of the moor or the sandy shores of a certain beach – it may offer the perfect starting point for a forever-worthy ring.

OCEAN TREASURES

From ocean-inspired gems to designs inspired by the ebb and flow of the tide, fall in love with these rings inspired by the Cornish coastline

1. Emily Nixon emilynixon.com

2. Stephanie Stevens stephaniestevensjewellery.co.uk

3. Found Treasure foundtreasurejewellery.com

4. Justin Duance justind.co.uk

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Stephanie Stevens designed this ring to look like it had been

The fluid curves of these tidal rings by Found Treasure are inspired by the energy of the ocean.

This ring by Emily Nixon twinkles with a love of the ocean thanks to its sapphires and sea-tumbled gold.

These rough gemstone rings by Justin Duance evoke the crystals found in Cornwall’s granite coastline.

scent with love

As couples imprint their personalities onto every aspect of their day, we look at how to perfume your wedding to perfection, creating evocative memories for years to come

words Hannah May

In his darkly beautiful novel, Perfume, Patrick Süskind explores the mesmeric world of scent. “Odors have a power of persuasion stronger than that of words, appearances, emotions, or will,” he writes. “The persuasive power of an odor cannot be fended off, it enters into us like breath into our lungs, it fills us up, imbues us totally. There is no remedy for it.”

Süskind’s olfactory obsessions show just how great the impact of smell can have, which is something that wedding world is having a moment with.

“Using scent at your wedding can enhance the mood of the day,” says planner and stylist Rebecca Green from Rebel & Anchor (rebelandanchor.co.uk). “Some choose a scent that’s special to them, or some wear something new so they have a special memory. The sense of smell is linked to memory and recall so this is a great way to bring back good memories.”

There are a variety of ways to create and sustain the scent of your day, which will help you to relive your wedding in years to come while ensuring your guests’ senses are fully stimulated, surprised and spoilt throughout the various stages and settings of your celebrations.

You might wish to simply ensure that you and your venue smell good, or perhaps think about the exact aromas you’d like to use – and blend – for a more dynamic and harmonious scenting experience.

Starting with consideration of the theme, venue and season, ask yourself exactly what effect and role smell can play in proceedings. For example, a rustic winter wedding in the country could explore the fragrance of Christmas with notes of frankincense, mulled wine, berries and cedar wafting everywhere from the ceremony space to the candlelit feasting area.

Meanwhile, an Ibizan-style beach party could be fabulously enhanced with the tropical scents of frangipani flower, coconut water, sweet vanilla and orange blossom drifting sweetly throughout the day.

Much like your wedding ensembles, scenting is largely about layering – and begins with your body. From what you shower with to any moisturisers, balms, oils and perfumes you lather, smooth and spritz over your skin, think about each element for the most luscious, long-lasting scent profile.

“When choosing your personal scents, consider the day as a whole: are flowers a key feature? If so, wear something floral,” advises Rebecca. “Or if you’re outside, then perhaps something woody. Do remember your partner’s scent and ensure you blend.”

Or why not opt for your own bespoke scent?

“You can create a special scent to wear that is unisex, which can also be given to guests as a favour,” suggests Rebecca. “You could discuss this with your florist and see if there are certain flowers that have a particular scent you could work with. Give guests a hint of the scent even before your big day by giving your invitations a quick spritz before sending them out.”

Other ideas include the use of diffusers, confetti and scented candles. “You could even create your own petal confetti and add some scent,” adds Rebecca. “However, make sure the scent doesn’t compete with the flavours of the food.”

In fact, one of the most effective ways to incorporate scent into your wedding is through the food itself.

“In terms of adding to the sensory aspect of weddings, we always find that cooking parts of our menus on open fire really gets the senses going,” says Fliss Loxley at Beautiful and the Feast (beautifulandthefeast.com). “Guests get to smell the open fire and the char of the vegetables before they sit down. We use locally grown edible flowers and micro herbs to bring another layer of scent and taste to each bite.”

By working closely with your caterer, you can create an aesthetically pleasing menu full of flavour and fragrance. And it needn’t stop there, with additional elements like your drinks list (think coffee vans, cocktails, punch bowls and citrusy homemade lemonade) and dessert options (candy floss carts, ice cream trikes and chocolate fountains) all accentuating the olfactory aspect of your day.

But when it comes to scenting your wedding, there’s one clear and easy winner: the flowers. “Flower and foliage scents are a dream and can be one of the most emotive delights,” agrees Helen Edwards at The Velvet Daisy (thevelvetdaisy.co.uk). “I always ask my couples if they have any particular flowers they’d like to incorporate within their designs, like reminders of homelands or holidays,” she says. “When I chat with my couples, many of them don’t realise when they’re talking that one of the most important features they remember is the scent rather than the vision of the flower itself.”

This is again where timing is key. “Scents are quite seasonal and can really reflect the choice of month a couple chooses to get married,” Helen explains. For example, she cites spring as “a very distinctive choice for wedding flowers and all the more appropriate as one meaning of spring flowers is ‘new beginnings’”.

Your spring blooms might feature daffodils, paper white narcissus, hyacinths, wallflowers and lilac. “The velvety scent of gardenia,

The Garden Gate Flower Company

Jose Villa

The Velvet Daisy

Rik Pennington

Beautiful and the Feast Beautiful and the Feast

colourful scented primrose,” swoons Helen. “Beautiful scented flowers can often provide stunning designs in large arrangements due to the way they grow – on the branch or used with the foliage they’re grown with,” she elaborates of the powerful and palpable effect of petals. “Think clove-scented viburnum, osmanthus, the cool and citrus dream of mock orange and the fabulous selection of spring blossom.”

She does, however, express a word of warning. “Scented flowers can be a dream but can also be overpowering and produce considerable amounts of pollen really affecting those with allergies. Lilies often cause the biggest reactions and I would recommend not including them within wedding flowers, however dramatic and architectural the effect of using them would be.”

“I have always placed scent as one the most important parts of growing flowers for my couples,” reveals Rebecca Stuart at The Garden Gate Flower Company (thegardengateflowercompany.co.uk). “Rather like a song you will hear on the radio that takes you back to fond memories, scent is a similar trigger. Often my couples will ask for flowers like sweet peas or roses as they remember them in their grandparents’ garden.”

The beauty of using a florist who grows or sources locally grown flowers is that British blooms have so much scent. “In Cornwall, azaleas love our soil and their scent is incredible – visit any stately home that has a garden and you are bound to find them growing. I love to include them in my bridal party flowers as their shape and scent work well with ranunculus,” says Rebecca.

Whatever time of year you plan to wed, you can bring scent from the garden into your floral arrangements. “Starting off the year, you will find the heady scent of the narcissi paper whites that in the depths of winter provide a glowing spotlight on any dark table. In early spring we see the introduction of flowering branches. Statement arrangements can embrace larger blooms like magnolia and if you are lucky to find a daphne you will not be disappointed by her sweet scent, often overlooked due to her little flowers,” says Rebecca.

“Once summer is upon us, the seasonal showstopper – the rose – takes centre stage for packing a punch in bridal bouquets,” she continues. “I grow a huge variety of roses but am always led by their scent. Be warned though – many roses on the market sadly no longer have a scent and are bred for their robust vase life.”

And what about out-of-season weddings? “Autumn is where scent from the flowers starts to taper off. However, foliage like eucalyptus, flowering mint and myrtle are firm favourite ingredients for me,” she says.

“My advice is to chat to your florist about what scent is available from seasonal flowers in the month you are getting married. It will become a lasting memory trigger when you smell your wedding flowers years down the line on a walk in a garden holding hands with your spouse.”

The Velvet Daisy

Blossoming Exposures

Beautiful and the Feast

The Garden Gate Flower Company

The Garden Gate Flower Company

John Hersey

heaven scent

These products are guaranteed to spoil all your guests’ senses...

St. Eval

Achieving B Corp certification for its ethical and sustainable business practices, St. Eval blends an inspiring ethos with the most beautifully crafted candles, diffusers and body care products. Deeply inspired by their coastal and country surroundings, the unique nature-inspired fragrances will bring the scents and ambience of Cornwall to your wedding and endless style to your tablescape.

The heavenly new Botanical Body, Hand and Hair Care collections are the perfect way to begin your scenting journey come W-day. The harmonious blend of Grapefruit & Honey Myrtle Body Wash with Chamomile & Linden Flower Body Lotion is both cleansing and refreshing, while the Rose Geranium & Spearmint Shampoo harnesses no fewer than seven pure essential oils including spearmint leaf, lavender, rose geranium, roman chamomile and cedarwood. Designed to evoke the herbal healing of wild Cornwall, the 100% naturally derived ingredients will soothe and care for your body from head-to-toe and are ideal for vegans by being paraben-free and cruelty-free. The bottles and labels are also 100% recyclable.

Meanwhile, St. Eval’s collection of pillar candles, tea lights, diffusers and dinner candles create endless scent and ambience wherever placed. Prepare to fall in love with the pretty pastels and Rhubarb, Geranium, Lemon and Thyme fragrances of the Summer Folk collection, while the Sea Salt candles and reed diffusers will bring the fresh, salty sea breeze of Cornwall to your day. Scatter around your wedding venue, gift to your guests and savour the stirringly beautiful scent.

st-eval.com

Jo Loves

Globally renowned for her intoxicating creations, Jo Loves from ‘English scent Maverick’ Jo Malone is a scent, bath, body and candle collection “inspired by the memories and moments in life that she loves”. Infused with emotion, the collections range from the sweetly classic Rose Petal 25 to the exotic perfume Golden Gardenia, which blends gardenia petals, suede cardamom, elemi and grey woods in an exquisite gold leaf patterned bottle. Or for the elegant and uplifting scent of porcelain white Norma Jean Rose spliced with peppered citrus, Jo’s White Rose & Lemon Leaves perfume is an all-out celebration of love.

Vegan and cruelty-free, the sumptuous scent ranges come in a variety of forms including candles, body cremès, bath colognes, lifestyle fragrances, hand care, body lotions, bath and shower gels, fragrance paintbrushes, hair and body mists, and travel collections so you can wear and take your wedding day scent on honeymoon and elsewhere. Wash, moisturise, perfume and refresh throughout the day, then slather and spritz again and again to transport yourself back to that exquisite moment of wedded bliss.

joloves.com

Trevarno

Organic Trevarno creates an assortment of skincare and soaps in the south of Cornwall using the finest and most sustainable, skin-loving ingredients without so much as a hint of anything artificial. Start by adding a subtle floral fragrance to your wedding linens with its Organic Linen Water, which is made from pure distilled organic flower water and is available in either Rose Damascena or Lavender. Complement this with Organic Room Mist, which distils delicate top notes of pure essential oil followed by full-bodied middle notes and long-lasting base notes in a trio of heady formulations: Cornish Garden (jasmine, rose geranium, lemon verbena), Coastal (lime, sweet basil) and Botanical (lavender, rosemary, thyme). You might even wish to stock up on Organic Trevarno’s luxury hand wash (in Coastal or Cornish Garden), which will leave skin feeling soft and hydrated while scenting your cloakrooms and spoiling your guests’ senses even more.

trevarnoskincare.co.uk

Carrière Frères

Expressing its global commitment through eco-friendly products sourced as close to nature as possible, Carrière Frères is a formidable name within the world of French perfumery. Their heavenly scented creations come in the form of candles, diffusers and room sprays, but our favourite has to be the eye-catching botanical palets. The handmade 100% vegetable wax accessories contain a natural element such as sustainably harvested plants and woodchips. The mini pieces of hanging art will adorn your wedding space (or present as the most sensuous gift) while wafting their intoxicating fragrance, such as La Rose Aime Le Poivre palet that fuses Damascas rose buds and peppercorns for an invigorating floral bouquet. A summer celebration would provide the perfect excuse to scatter some Orange Blossom palets throughout your venue, while the Siracusa Lemon Botanical palet was made for an Indian summer affair. Then there’s the Siberian Pine and Winter Rose variety, which would lend itself perfectly to a yuletide celebration – or the fresh and woody notes of Cedar that will envelop any space and season with its sophisticated attar.

carrierefreres.co.uk

La Luna

Handcrafted using the finest ingredients and biodegradable, clean-burning plant wax, La Luna is a small Cornish business with a big heart. Sustainability is core to the ethos of owner Sinead Harvey, who places a particular emphasis on considered buying, sustainable packaging and being completely plastic-free. The results are as beautiful as they are benevolent. Rosa is infused with 100% rose geranium essential oil and smells like the sweetest bouquet of freshly cut roses, while Winter Sun reveals a decadent mix of blackcurrant, cardamom, green fig leaves and tuberose. Charlestown’s fresh blend of sea salt and oak moss with notes of gardenia, violet leaf and tonka is the perfect aroma for a coastal wedding. Or evoke Mother Nature herself with Cornish Garden, which releases the earthy scents of rosemary, lemon, bergamot, grapefruit, basil and moss with an enveloping warmth that lingers in the air long after the flame has burned. Sinead’s ever-evolving range features a scent to suit all settings and preferences, whether you wish to gift mini candles as favours or scatter a selection throughout your wedding spaces to elevate the sensory aspect of your day.

lalunacornwall.com

Little Anne-Maids

Cornwall Suit Room

B UR NCOOS E HOUS E

Burncoose House boasts a stunning woodland garden location offering complete privacy. With the house and grounds solely yours for the occasion. From intimate ceremonies for up to 50, to marquee receptions on the lawn for 150, the venue and grounds provide a stunning backdrop to your day.

Photography by Liberty Pearl Photo & Film Collective

WORKING THE GROOM

Elevate your big day ensemble with these top-trending accessories words Hannah May

BUTTONHOLES

Taking their cue from floristry trends, the humble buttonhole (or even the ‘new’ buttonhole – pocket square boutonnieres) are emerging as something of a standalone and statement feature in groomswear. “Buttonholes have moved through the trends in the same way that bridal bouquets have, from larger, colourful arrangements with a velvet ribbon to more toned down, almost non-floral displays,” notes Rebecca from The Garden Gate Flower Company (thegardengateflowercompany.co.uk). “Whilst matching buttonholes were very much a thing, we are now seeing a more unique approach to these little arrangements – each one celebrating something different that the garden offers whilst still sitting within the chosen colour palette. For 2023 we continue the desire for dried elements; grasses like bunny tails still being a firm favourite!”

“I’ve found that buttonhole style is becoming much simpler,” says Helen from The Velvet Daisy (thevelvetdaisy.co.uk). “Most of my grooms last year had a ‘soft’ version of the classic and simple rose buttonhole – the softness created by using buds at varying stages of opening, with the delicacy of spray roses.” Along with the use of fresh British flowers, another emerging trend Helen’s observed is scented buttonholes, “with small amounts of scented delicacy, not only in the flowers but by using a host of different scented herbs and foliage such as sage, rosemary, camomile, lavender, bay and eucalyptus”.

The Velvet Daisy The Garden Gate Flower Company

The Garden Gate Flower Company

The Garden Gate Flower Company

Debs Alexander Photography

Debs

Alexander Photography

The Velvet Daisy

The Velvet Daisy

TIES AND BOW TIES

Black tie is still causing quite the sartorial stir, so anything that fits within the aesthetic or follows a monochromatic theme scores top groom’s style marks. Velvet bow ties and textured ties, such as silk and knit, are clear winners, with modern panache added through prints and patterns of florals, nature motifs, puppytooth and especially jacquard. Colour-wise, jewel tones in blue, wine and green, along with neutral and earthy tones, are all the rage. Throw in a clashing or matching pocket square or pair of braces to complete your look of choice.

SHOES

Loafers or leather brogues in tan or any shade of brown (or patent and black if you’re donning black tie) remain a groom’s wardrobe staple. Informal footwear in the form of fancy (sustainable) sneakers or a customised pair of Converse are the cool yet considered option for more laidback grooms.

Duke + Dexter

Chloe Ely Photography

ASOS

House of Cavani

House of Cavani

House of Cavani

Fairfax & Favor

Fairfax & Favor

Fairfax & Favor

Moss Bros.

Moss Bros.

Moss Bros.

Moss Bros.

Favourbrook

Favourbrook

Favourbrook

Favourbrook

L.A. Smith

New & Lingwood

Richard Anderson

L.A. Smith

JEWELLERY

The latest adornments have a definitive ‘feminine’ appeal, with pearl jewellery, ornate lapel pins, brooches and antique pocket watches with delicate detailing all making a stand-out appearance. Pick a personalised or vintage tie bar, commission a pair of bespoke cufflinks (with a touch of dazzle), or opt for a simple bracelet; think pearl beaded, a brushed metal band with engraving, or a chain link. Necklace-wise, a slim metal chain is a subtle, goes-with-anything choice or, for a high-fashion look, a bolo tie with braided leather or cord and ornamental clasp satisfies the catwalks’ current Western-inspired craze.

UNDERWEAR & SOCKS

Don’t forget those finishing touches, chaps. Flash a pair of colour pop or designer socks for an added element of fun or fashionable edge. From unique embroideries to bright hues, go punchy with polka dots, snazzy with stripes, retro with paisley, or super stylish with herringbone dress socks. And finally… surprise your spouse (and keep chafe-free comfy!) with underwear bought especially for the occasion. You can’t go wrong with perfectly fitted pristine white boxers or ultrasoft cotton breathable briefs, while microfibre trunks or contoured boxer briefs provide the ideal mix of coolly snug and stylish.

ASOS asos.com

DKNY dkny.com

Drakes drakesjewellers.co.uk

Fairfax & Favor fairfaxandfavor.com

Favourbrook favourbrook.com

The Garden Gate Flower Company thegardengateflowercompany.co.uk

House of Cavani at Cornwall Suit Room cornwallsuitroom.com

Justin Duance justind.co.uk

L.A. Smith at Cornwall Suit Room cornwallsuitroom.com

Moss Bros. moss.co.uk

New & Lingwood newandlingwood.com

Tateossian tateossian.com

The Velvet Daisy thevelvetdaisy.co.uk

3.

Deakin & Francis at Drakes

Deakin & Francis at Drakes

Favourbrook

Georg Jensen at Drakes

Justin Duance

Justin Duance

Thomas Sabo

Tateossian

Favourbrook

Justin Duance

Tateossian

Favourbrook

Tateossian

DKNY

Moss Bros. Moss Bros. Moss Bros.

THE GANNET INN & HOUSE

Carwinion House is an exclusive wedding location, complete with exquisite gardens, expansive grounds and a beautiful Raj style marquee in a walled garden setting. Delightful, remote, exclusive, unique and breathtaking.

Credit: Katie Goff Photography

wed’s HIP LIST

THAT’S THE SPIRIT

For a drink to serve your guests that epitomises the wilds of Cornwall, you can’t go past Mounts Bay Distillery. Its Cornish rum and gin are made at a small family-run distillery overlooking Mounts Bay, and the family’s love of the coastal surrounds influences what goes into its delicious spirits. With seaweed harvested from the low tide shores, and honey and saffron from nearby cliffs and coves, the taste of the local landscape is evoked in every drop of the delicious drinks. mountsbaydistillery.com

BE EXTRAORDINARY

To get the look and styling just right at your wedding, Out of the Ordinary Event Hire has you covered. Offering a luxury collection of tableware, décor and props as well as vintage china and dinnerware, you can bring your wedding-day vision to life. There’s even furniture, easels, flowers stands and more, so everything from your cake table to your seating plan will exceed your décor dreams! outoftheordinaryeventhire.com

MAKE IT A DOUBLE

For a perfectly crafted drink with all the taste but none of the hangover, enter Mavrik and its range of non-alcoholic low-calorie cocktails. Created in style-forward cans, the range include everything you’d expect to see on a cocktail menu, including a mojito, espresso martini, dark and stormy, and a classic G&T. We love the Venetian spritz for a booze-free take on an Aperol spritz, perfect for sipping at a summer wedding. mavrik-drinks.com

PUPPY LOVE

THROW IT WITH JOY

You can’t beat real flower confetti for romance and a nod to nature, as well as being much better for the environment, and Kehelland Trust is now creating the perfect confetti for celebrating your just-married moment. Located near Camborne, the horticultural site provides meaningful services for adults with additional needs who grow the flowers from seed, then harvest and process the petals on-site. Email sales@kehellandtrust.org.uk or call 01209 718975 to order. kehellandtrust.org.uk

We are huge fans of seeing waggy little friends at your weddings, and nothing is more aww-inducing than your canine companion taking the role of ring bearer. But it’s not always straightforward to get the ring down the aisle with your dog – until now. These handmade leather and suede pouches from Studio Lowen will clip comfortably on to their ID tag ring, come in a range of colours and can even be personalised with a name or your wedding date. Paw-fect! studiolowen.com

Fresh, fun and fabulous ways to add a unique touch to your day words Lucy Lawrence

Katie Goff Photography

Moon Gazey Hare

Katie Goff Photography

THE COLOURS OF LOVE

A carnival of gorgeous hues meets fun-loving vibes in this bright, beautiful and joy-filled wedding scene at Trevenna

photography Jessica Apps coordination Emma Carlyle, Hair by Emma C

Forget subtlety and go all-out for a riot of colour on your wedding day. Flanked by mile upon mile of wildly romantic moorland, Trevenna makes a dream natural canvas for this vibrant styled shoot, the medley of reds, pinks and oranges contrasting beautifully with the natural textures of the lightfilled barn and garden backdrop.

The flowers are key to the aesthetic, the joyful bursts of colour carrying from a sweeping installation – a glorious way to frame the ceremony – to the towering table arrangement and bouquet filled with petals in shades of pink, blue, lilac and tangerine. Rich in natural abundance, citrus fruits, tapered candles and playful stationery bring pops of colour to the tablescape, while chunky glassware and circular candlesticks enhance the contemporary feel. And, epitomising the fun factor, a cake cloaked in flowers and array of balloons makes a playful focal point for the festivities.

Nodding to the current trend for changing dresses to move from the ceremonials to the celebrations, the bride dons a seriously chic off-theshoulder gown and wavy locks dotted with pearls for the vows. Her second look – a little white dress, sleek updo and shades – nails the party-ready vibe, while her groom opts for dressed-down black tie. A VW Beetle bedecked in balloons and blooms adds the fun factor – the perfect ride for soaking up the joy of the occasion.

Venue Trevenna trevenna.co.uk

Photography Jessica Apps Photography jessicaappsphotography.co.uk

Hair & coordination

Hair by Emma C hairbyemmac.net

Make-up Stacey Louise staceylouisemakeupartist.co.uk

Videography Laurie B Film and Photography laurie-b.com

Flowers Artem Florum artemflorum.com

Dresses Champagne & Charlotte champagneandcharlotte.co.uk ASOS asos.com

Sparkly backdrop with balloons & neon sign Oakus Pokus instagram.com/oakus_pokus20.cornwall

Confetti, smoke bombs & pink balloon wall Ginger Ray gingerray.co.uk

Stationery Pink Peony Weddings pinkpeonyweddings.com

VW Beetle Honey Bugs Cornwall honeybugscornwall.co.uk

Celebrant Donna Allibone instagram.com/donnaallibone.celebrant

Cake Kiara Rae Cakes instagram.com/kiararaecakes

Groom’s outfit ASOS asos.com New Look newlook.com

Models Elise Anaïs Wood instagram.com/eliseanaiswood Ben Delany instagram.com/benjaminpatrickdelany

Timeless glamour meets dreamily romantic accents in the lovingly restored Georgian climes of Polstrong Manor

photography Katie Goff

A sleek bridal gown, creamy blooms in soft shades of pink and peach, and details dotted with pearls and accented with gold – the classiccontemporary mood of this romantic styled shoot is perfectly in keeping with its setting: the Georgian climes of Polstrong Manor. From the bridal suite and drawing room to the orangery bathed in natural light, the house has been lovingly restored to create an elegant setting for a modern wedding while embracing its historic character.

The bride and groom carry the aesthetic perfectly: the minimalist gown with its statement back bow is modern yet timeless, while the textured updo and glossy waves epitomise modern glamour. Pairing perfectly with his bride, the groom dons a sharp black-tie ensemble, the dried flowers of his buttonhole a subtle nod to current trends.

The delicate blush and peach flowers bring dreamy texture to the tablescape, the ferns blending beautifully with the taupe candles and copper tones of the cutlery. Gold accents are woven throughout, from the rims of the plates to the stationery and cake, the intricately iced tiers adorned with gold leaf and dainty pearls.

Elegant, enduring and oh-so romantic, it is a dream scene for a classic country house wedding with a contemporary twist.

Photography Katie Goff Photography katiegoffphotography.com

Venue Polstrong Manor instagram.com/polstrong_manor_ cornwall

Flowers Lafonia Flower Company lafoniaflowercompany.co.uk

Dress ASOS asos.com

Groom’s outfit Cornwall Suit Room cornwallsuitroom.com

Hair Hair by Emma C hairbyemmac.net

Make-up Amelia at Beautera beautera.co.uk

Celebrant Lisa at Celebrant in Cornwall celebrantincornwall.co.uk

Décor & styling Piccolo Weddings piccoloweddings.com

Earrings & headpiece The Lucky Sixpence theluckysixpence.co.uk

Cake Polly Webb Cakes pollywebbcakes.co.uk

Signage The Print Room facebook.com/theprintroomtruro

Stationery Rocha Designs rochadesigns.co.uk

Rings Emily Nixon emilynixon.com

Table linen The Knotted Napkin Co. theknottednapkinco.com

Models Maia Coyte instagram.com/_maiacoyte George Champion instagram.com/g.e.o.r.g.e.c.h.a.m.p.i.o.n

EVER GREEN

Steal away to the lush climes of The Lost Gardens of Heligan for an elopement styled with fresh greens and filled with awayfrom-it-all romance

photography Scarlett Photography styling Bird & Bear Blooms

For a wedding immersed in enchantment and natural beauty, it’s difficult to imagine a more romantic setting than The Lost Gardens of Heligan. Lost to the brambles of time since the outbreak of the First World War, Heligan was reawakened as Europe’s largest garden restoration in 1990 and today, the lush paddocks, idyllic Pleasure Grounds, walled gardens and 60 acres of woodland make a paradisiacal backdrop for a marriage to remember.

This styled shoot draws on the gardens, and its leafy paths and canopies of green, to set the scene for an incredibly romantic elopement. Shades of green carry from the linens and candles on the al fresco tablescape to stationery and cake, which is adorned with fern-like detailing, florals, foliage and accents of gold. Dressed in a lace gown, a headband of white blooms and delicate jewels, the bride’s look balances timeless elegance with modern flair. From the greenhouse dotted with plants and flowers to the rope bridge across the exotic jungle valley, the newlyweds roam the meandering pathways of Heligan, taking in its otherworldly beauty on the dreamiest of days.

Venue The Lost Gardens of Heligan heligan.com

Concept, styling, flowers & floral headband Bird & Bear Blooms instagram.com/birdandbearblooms

Photography Scarlett Photography scarlettphotography.co.uk

Videography Charlie Flounders Photo & Film charlieflounders.com

Dress Coastal Bridal coastalbridal.co.uk

Groom’s outfit ASOS asos.com

Hair Melody-Rose Hair & Weddings instagram.com/melody_hair_weddings

Make-up Emma Collyer instagram.com/em_collyer_mua

Jewellery By The Sea Jewellery bytheseajewellery.com

Cake White Peony Cake Co whitepeonycakes.co.uk

Stationery The Coastal Wedding Co. thecoastalweddingco.co.uk

Tablescaping The Knotted Napkin Co. theknottednapkinco.com

Model Sofia Cobley instagram.com/sofiacobleymodel

pitch perfect

From choosing a location to styling your space, make material your dream wedding under canvas with these pointers

words Hannah May

Nothing beats the magic of a marquee wedding. But when it comes to the nuts and bolts of organising one, there’s a lot to think about. From the ‘where?’ to the ‘how?’, we’ve teamed up with Charlotte Winship from Tipi Spaces (tipispaces.co.uk) to compile this mini guide to throwing the personality-packed party of your lives.

Venue

This is the first thing to ascertain. One of the main draws of marquees is their versatility, especially the fact that they can be pitched practically anywhere – from clifftops to beaches, tree-dotted hillsides or even your own back garden. Is there a poignant place you’ve always dreamed of tying the knot? Somewhere that evokes happy memories or just boasts the most beautiful view you’d like to share with your guests?

“We started our tipi hire business to enable people to entertain in meaningful outdoor spaces,” explains Charlotte. “There are not many places we can’t build a tipi, but some are easier than others. If we had to choose a favourite, it would be by the sea. And we don’t use machines to build them – they are all built by hand using ladders, ropes and old-fashioned people power!”

The best first course of action is to create a shortlist of your favourite potential venues and then get in touch

with your preferred marquee suppliers to further discuss their viability. And there’s an array on the market, from stunning tipis and traditional and clearspan marquees to Mongolian yurts, geodesic domes and sailcloth tents – so be clear on the exact look, size and style you’re after (as well as budget of course!).

“Our number-one priority is safety, so our preferred ground for building tipis is level with a smooth terrain,” says Charlotte of the importance of pondering your topography. “It doesn’t have to be bowling-green flat but try to avoid steep slopes and potholes for your own comfort and safety. We lay floor matting that will follow the contours of the ground so any divots, lumps and bumps will still be felt. This is not too much trouble in flat shoes but becomes a bit more of a hazard in high heels! We recommend hiring our dance floor for this reason. Uneven ground is also not ideal when you are trying to level tables and chairs. Similarly, sloping fields and gardens can cause discomfort, especially if guests have to eat food from a plate set at an angle!”

As well as the land upon which the marquee is being laid, think about the space and potential physical hazards around your venue. “The tipis are 7.5m tall, so be mindful of any overhead cables or trees with low-hanging branches,” says Charlotte. “We also ask for a plan of any known underground cables or pipes that might be at risk from our large tent pegs; and protection from the prevailing wind is also useful such as a wall, building, hedge or trees.”

Season and weather

Fancy saying “I do” during a midwinter celebration under the stars? Or would you prefer a summer wedding in a tiny tipi near the water’s edge? Today’s marquees are designed to withstand a range of all-weather scenarios, from storms and snow to heatwaves, adapting to take full advantage of their surrounds and conditions.

“The tipis are engineered to withstand almost galeforce winds,” confirms Charlotte. “They are designed

by Tentipi in Sweden where the weather is extreme. Once they are erected, they are incredibly stable. We watch the weather closely in the lead-up to your event, as well as throughout the build, during the event and the de-rig. If we have any concerns, we will communicate this with you and take precautionary action, which could mean simply lowering the sides or adding some more restraints to ensure everyone’s safety. Occasionally, it can cause delays to the build but we always allow a contingency for bad weather to ensure that the tipis are ready for your wedding.”

And what about dealing with the great British downpour? “The canvas is completely waterproof so will keep you dry!” says Charlotte. “On hot summer days, the ventilation system helps to keep everyone cool inside the tipi. The traditional smoke caps at the tipi peak are designed to be easily raised using a pulley system; this ventilation hole draws the warm air up to the top of the tipi and releases it. This keeps them a lot cooler than other marquee structures without the need for artificial air conditioning.”

Facilities

Once you’ve confirmed your venue and date, it’s time to think about what goes in and around the marquee to make it a comfy, practical and stylish wedding space. You’ll need to consider a host of aspects, from the catering and furniture to the lighting, parking, access, heating and toilet hire.

The size and type of your wedding may dictate these decisions. For example, if you’re hosting an intimate gathering with just a few guests, then you’ll likely adopt a more minimalist approach to the minutiae. Alternatively, a grand, festival-style wedding may require a marquee village with multiple spaces for guests of all ages such as a crèche, quiet zone for older guests, bar area, snug and buffet or entertainment corner.

Think about each of your guests individually and what their needs are. Will you require pathways from the car park or other venue spaces, and how will you ensure these are visible and easily negotiable at night (especially for younger and older guests)?

Outside, you may wish to organise seating, firepits, drinks stations or even an al fresco dance floor, while inside the marquee itself you’ll need to consider everything from the flooring and furnishings to the décor. Many marquee companies provide these items with their packages, while others offer a selection as extras. Have some fun in the sourcing, whether bringing items from your home for even more personalisation, trawling car boot sales, enlisting the services of a professional planner or stylist, or perusing the collections of hire companies.

“Tipi Spaces are the only tipi hire company in the South-west who supply ivory-white canvas tipis, which means more natural daylight filters inside the tipis,” explains Charlotte of the instant benefits. “It also means artificial light is reflected more effectively, so you’ll need less lighting, which is better for your pocket and the environment.” Explore the myriad options for added

Tipi Spaces Venetia Norrington

Skybar Weddings

WSD Productions

Skybar Weddings

Hatch Marquees Mark Shaw

WSD Productions

ambience, from fairy lights to candles, lamps, chandeliers, lanterns and festoon lighting.

“The canvas is also completely fire-retardant so you can use smokeless candles to light the tables,” she adds. “We also provide fire extinguishers and recommend covering the flame to prevent any drafts or breezes putting out the candles.”

It might sound like a lot to remember, but as you compile your checklist with your supplier, you’ll become increasingly excited about the prospect of putting your own stamp onto every aspect of your day. This is the chance to create a unique celebration that – with a little due diligence and plenty of forward planning – will ensure an event that truly reflects you and your love story to ultramemorable effect.

Styling

One of the most alluring aspects of marquee weddings is the chance to make material your wildest imagination! Think statement backdrops, floral installations, elaborate draperies, showstopping lighting, designer furniture and dramatic ceilings.

“If you are looking for a relaxed, boho, festivalstyle wedding then tipis are the perfect tent choice,” enthuses Charlotte. “The natural elements of wood and canvas complement any landscape and their ivory-white colour is a true blank canvas giving couples complete freedom to design a styling scheme of their choice. The bright canvas also makes the tipis particularly striking from the outside.”

While tipis are around 13m when the sides are raised, their large size is misleading. “When you step inside a tipi, their conical shape ergonomically wraps around you, creating intimacy at even the largest of events and a feeling of cosy security and comfort,” Charlotte explains. “A solo tipi is ideal for intimate micro-weddings but the sophisticated design of the tipis means that we can easily enlarge the space by linking multiple tipis together.”

Have a view you want to show off? “The tipis have also been designed to offer flexible walls,” says Charlotte. “The canvas walls can be raised to maximise the outside views and the light and air inside. We can also supply windows so the tipis remain enclosed against the weather and retain a view of the outdoors.”

Marquees really come into their own with their unique ability to blend form and function. “The tipis poles form the main structure of the tent but also make great places to hang decorations including drapes, garlands, fairy lights, chandeliers, macramé, festoons, bunting, paper lanterns and balloons,” says Charlotte of the endless possibilities to personalise your tent’s space – ensuring the wow factor is in full and fabulous force.

Absolute Canvas

Skybar Weddings

Venetia Norrington

Tipi Spaces

Tipi Spaces Taylor & Porter

Emma Stoner

Absolute Canvas

Tipi Spaces

Venetia

Norrington

WSD Productions

Types of Tents

From stretch tent to tipi, we’re crushing on these cool canvas options…

Traditional marquees

It’s difficult to resist the elegance of a traditional marquee. Its classic style combines wooden poles, natural canvas and large Georgian arch windows to usher in views across the Cornish countryside for a timelessly beautiful celebration.

Absolute Canvas absolutecanvas.co.uk

Stretch tent

Versatile, contemporary and super-stylish, stretch tents are made from an incredibly strong and stretchy waterproof material to give a fabulously freestyle structure that can be erected in a variety of locations and spaces.

Skybar Weddings skybarweddings.com

Clear span marquees

Offering brilliant flexibility, the clear span is a top choice for hard ground and trickier-to-get-to locations. Its framework of aluminium poles and white PVC presents unrestricted space inside, as well as strong weatherproof credentials to boot.

Absolute Canvas absolutecanvas.co.uk

Tipis

As visually stunning as they are flexible, tipis can be linked together to create the perfect sized space for your event. You can lift the sides on a summer’s day for an open-air celebration or cosy up amidst firepits and fairy lights in the winter.

Tipi Spaces tipispaces.co.uk

Sunset Tipis sunsettipis.com

Visit

Venetia Norrington

Tipis: Tipi Spaces

Stretch tent: Skybar Weddings

WSD Productions

Traditional marquee: Absolute Canvas

Clear span marquee: Absolute Canvas

Tipis: Sunset Tipis

L U X U R Y W E D D I N

G S B Y T H E

S E

A

H i s t o r i c c h a r m w i t h a m o d e r n e l e g a n c e . T h e A t l a n t i c H o t e l N e w q u a y i s a n

a w a r d - w i n n i n g 4 s t a r w e d d i n g v e n u e a s u n i q u e a s y o u r l o v e s t o r y

S u r r o u n d e d b y b e a u t i f u l h e a d l a n d , s t u n n i n g b e a c h e s , a n d e n c h a n t i n g s e a v i e w s ,

y o u r d a y i s f r e e t o b e w h a t e v e r y o u d r e a m o f

F o r a b r o c h u r e , p r i c i n g , o r v e n u e t o u r p l e a s e e m a i l

e v e n t s @ a t l a n t i c h o t e l n e w q u a y . c o . u k

20

Go green on your wedding day with these environmentally friendly ideas

words Becci Clubb

The big white wedding doesn’t naturally lend itself to being sustainable, with excess decorations, flowers and food often going to waste when the day ends. But there are ways you can lower your impact with sustainable swaps and still have the day of your dreams. Follow our eco-themed tips below and make a positive step towards a waste-free wedding day…

1. Dress to impress. Many bridal designers create sensational gowns from ethically sourced materials that won’t only make you look incredible but will make you feel good about your choice too. Rolling in Roses (rollinginroses.co.uk) designs a range of gowns made from fabric that originates from orange fibre, while designers such as Christine Trewinnard (christinetrewinnard.co.uk) makes each garment to order and sources fabrics from suppliers in the UK. This means Christine can order the exact materials required for individual gowns, minimising waste while supporting British craftspeople. If you’re seeking an eco-conscious pre-loved or vintage dress, Days of Grace Vintage (daysofgracevintage.com) is home to a range of original antique dresses from the 1900s to the 1970s. What’s more, some bridal boutiques now boast impressive eco initiatives; for example, Bliss Bridal Gowns (blissbridalgowns.co.uk) plants a tree for each dress purchased.

2. Two-for-one. Opt for bridal separates or one outfit that offers two looks, so you can change your bridal style from day to night without the financial and environmental impact of purchasing two outfits. Bridal separates can be styled with other pieces to wear again after the big day, too.

3. Wedding wardrobe. You could even hire your bridal gown. Brands including Hurr (hurrcollective.com) and ByRotation (byrotation.com) allow you to source your dream dress and save yourself the worry of what you’re going to do with it once you’re hitched!

4. His and hires. Instead of buying suits for each of the groomsmen, which might be left hanging at the back of the wardrobe after the wedding and eventually thrown out, look to suit companies that offer hire services such as Cornwall Suit Room (cornwallsuitroom.com).

5. Moral maids. Let your bridal party lead the way in choosing their outfits (with some guidance from you if desired!). Picking something that they love means they’re more likely to wear it again.

6. Twinkle toes. Instead of opting for a traditional bridal shoe, choose footwear that you will be able to wear again – whether that’s pretty ballerina shoes, Converse, block heels or shoes that can double up as your something blue.

7. Suitable setting. If sustainability is important to you, you’ll be naturally drawn to venues that work in an environmentally friendly way, from trying to reduce waste and recycling to farming their own crops and using solar energy. Research the venue, check it’s in line with your values and don’t be afraid to ask for any little tweaks to be made.

8. Location, location, location. If you are saying “I do” in one location and then moving on to a different location for your reception, try to make sure all the venues are within walking distance, so that once guests arrive they can wander between the venues on foot.

9. Trim back on travel. If you have chosen a venue that’s a little further to get to, organise transport for your guests. They can all meet in one central pick-up point and be transported together on a bus to your venue.

10. Micro wedding. Enforced by the Covid pandemic, the micro wedding trend is here to stay. A reduced guest list results in an intimate atmosphere and a reduction in waste.

11. Meaningful menu. Choose a caterer that uses seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce. This will make your wedding breakfast fresher and tastier and save transporting produce from overseas or far away. .

12. Plant power. Forgo cut flowers in favour of growing greenery – huge terracotta pots filled with plants lining the aisle for the ceremony will make a stunning statement. Display little lavender plants in stone urns or potted plants dotted along

trestle tables, then gift them to guests at the end of the wedding for them to grow in their garden.

13. Fresh flowers. For your bouquets, choose handtied, seasonal blooms. If you choose to opt for cut flower arrangements, ask your florist to avoid using floral foam in the displays and gift them to guests after the wedding to be loved for longer at home. Cornwall is home to some brilliantly talented florists who grow their own flowers or source their blooms from local growers.

14. Conscientious confetti. For a joyful confetti moment that won’t leave bits of paper flying about afterwards choose natural, biodegradable confetti. Kehelland Trust (kehellandtrust.org.uk) is a horticultural site that produces real flower confetti. The site itself provides meaningful services for adults with additional needs, who grow the flowers from seed, harvest and process the petals onsite, to sell at wedding fairs (or call 01209 718975 to order).

15. Thoughtful favours. One thing regularly left behind at weddings is the favours. If you want to gift something individually to each of your guests, be clever with your choices. Edible treats always go down well, a lottery ticket or scratch card is fun and can be recycled, while miniature potted succulents make a sweet gift and add to your décor.

16. Sustainable stationery. Choose a stationery supplier that works in an environmentally friendly way. Opt for invitations printed with eco-solvent inks on recycled papers, or you could choose seed cards that your guests can later plant in their garden to grow wildflowers. You could even go paperless, sending e-invites instead of physical ones.

17. Decorative details. When it comes to decorating your venue, head for secondhand or charity shops to reuse items such as candle holders and vases. For larger items, as well as cutlery and crockery, find a local company that offers wedding items to hire; Out of the Ordinary Event Hire (outoftheordinaryeventhire.com) and Stargazey Decor Hire (stargazeydecorhire.co.uk) have stunning wedding hire collections. Before you start sourcing décor, check what your venue supplies – you might be in luck and find they have neon signs by the dance floor, a walled garden with the perfect natural climbing rose photo backdrop or tea light candles dotted around the place already.

18. Tiers of joy. You might think you want a four-tier cake but how much of it will be eaten? Your cake maker can help you work out how much cake you need for your guest numbers to save any going to waste. If you like the height of a tiered cake, slim, tall tiers will give the same overall look (avoid polystyrene dummy tiers and instead ask for a decorative clear acrylic tier that your baker can include and reuse).

19. Jewels and gemstones. Research your jewellers and jewellery pieces. There are some exceptional jewellers in Cornwall who create exquisite designs with ethical values to match, whether it’s using ethically sourced gemstones, recycled and Fairtrade gold, vintage diamonds or sustainable packaging. Pearls are a beautiful organic and environmentally friendly choice for your bridal jewellery. Try to seek out brands that are dedicated to giving back to the planet.

20. Stick with tradition. Follow tradition and incorporate something old and something borrowed on your wedding day. As the adage goes, choosing vintage jewellery or a borrowed veil will bring good luck on the big day, and it will help lower your environmental impact too.

Put fresh and thirst-quenching cocktails on the menu for wedding drinks that bring the summer vibes

“Summer cocktails should epitomise sunshine and smiles, long warm evenings and dancing as the sun sets”

A sun-dappled reception, guests milling in the golden hour, the clink of glasses as they sip on something fruity and delicious… it’s the stuff summer wedding dreams are made of. And if there’s one person who knows her cocktail menu, it’s Jo Fitch at The Buffalo (thebuffalo. co.uk), a travelling 1964 Airstream bar that brings the cool factor – and a heady dose of flavour – to your big day.

“Sipping fruity cocktails adorned with a flower garnish just ticks all the summer wedding goal boxes, doesn’t it?” she says. Having witnessed countless dreamy weddings across the county, Jo is full of advice for cocktails that never fail to hit the spot at celebrations during the warmer months.

“When we think of summer cocktails, our minds instantly turn to Tiki. Originally created in California in the 1930s by Don Beach, Tiki was inspired by the Polynesian culture in the South Pacific,” she says. “These cocktails scream warm weather and sunshine with plenty of delicious fruity flavours all mixed up with a good measure of rum. They’re ideal for a summer wedding as they are long and refreshing, perfect for sipping in the sun rather than a short and strong cocktail that’ll have you on the floor in a state of dehydration and heat stroke!”

Keep cool and refreshing in mind – as well as your favourite flavours – as you whittle down the heady choice of cocktails that capture the colours and flavours of the season. Remember that your cocktails can set the tone of your celebration as much as any other detail – and comprise a partystarting feature your guests are sure to be talking about long after the last Piña Colada has been supped.

“Summer cocktails should epitomise sunshine and smiles, long warm evenings and dancing as the sun sets,” says Jo. “Our outdoor Airstream bars give the glow needed to enjoy dancing the night away under the stars and keeping your thirst at bay with insanely good cocktails for all to enjoy. Your wedding will go down as one of the best!”

From classic crowd-pleasers to Caribbean vibes, Jo has selected her favourite cocktails for bringing the wow factor to your reception. Choose one or two to offer your guests or go big and bold with a cocktail menu with something for everyone!

Piña Colada

Rum, pineapple juice, coconut purée. The key to a perfect Piña Colada is a blender, no chunks of ice, just the silky smooth ice-cold taste of pineapple, coconut and rum!

Basil & Ginger Fizz Mocktail

Basil and ginger syrup, lemon juice, soda water. This is refreshing to the max with tastes of summer all over. There’s no need to leave anyone out when it comes to drinks; Tiki cocktails minus the rum are delicious!

Hurricane

Light rum, dark rum, passionfruit syrup, lime, grenadine, orange juice. This is often the most popular drink of the day! Long, fruity and shaken, it ticks all the boxes of deliciousness.

Summer Garden Gin Fizz

Gin, martini bianco, basil, lavender syrup, lemon, peach bitters. Combining all the flavours of a summer garden, this is another long refreshing cocktail stirred with plenty of ice for those hot summer wedding days.

Passionfruit Martini

Vanilla vodka, passionfruit purée, lime, passionfruit syrup, passoã. Similar to (but in my opinion better than) a Pornstar Martini, this will give you the zing in your jawbone, the shiver down your spine and the ‘wow’ that all great cocktails should give you!

Elderflower Collins

Gin, elderflower cordial, lemon juice, soda water. We very often serve this as a welcome cocktail when your guests arrive after the ceremony. Long, light and refreshing with subtle flavours of spring.

Bahama Mama

Rum, coconut rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, grenadine. Close your eyes and you will be on the beaches of the Caribbean sipping this fruity cocktail.

Aperol Spritz

Aperol, Prosecco, soda water. This Italian classic is traditionally served to ladies while the men are served a Campari Spritz for a more bitter cocktail.

garland glossary

Confusing your dahlias with your delphiniums? Get clued up on your wedding blooms with wed’s compendium of petals

words Rebecca Matthews

Somewhere along the path from the engagement to the wedding day, you’ll be faced with a petal predicament: which flowers would you like to dress your day? When are they in season? And, most importantly, what exactly does an anemone, ranunculus or hellebore actually look like?

For those not au fait with flowers, it can be something of a sticking point. After all, your choice of flowers is key to setting the tone, colour and even scent of your day – and a little floral knowledge goes a long way. We’ve picked out some popular wedding flowers, along with pointers on symbolism and seasonality, to get you started.

Anemone

Delicately beautiful blooms with small, round petals and available in a wide choice of shades, from crisp white to richer hues.

Symbolic meaning: anticipation, protection

In season: late February to April

Clematis

Large, blowsy flowers in a choice of shades from vivid purple to soft pink and white.

Symbolic meaning: ingenuity, mental beauty

In season: late spring to late summer

Hellebore

Dainty, translucent petals with pointed, delicate leaves, which come in a kaleidoscope of colours.

Symbolic meaning: serenity, tranquility

In season: January to early spring

Dahlia

Dramatic blooms with symmetrical petals available in a spectrum of vibrant colours.

Symbolic meaning: elegance, inner strength

In season: June to October

Lily of the valley

Delicate bell-shaped white flowers, which occasionally may be pink.

Symbolic meaning: happiness, purity, humility

In season: June to September

Hydrangea

Big, bold flower heads in a range of colours – particularly popular in pastel shades and blue.

Symbolic meaning: heartfelt emotion, gratitude, arrogance

In season: July to October

Foxglove

Bold spires of tubular flowers, commonly in pink and purple shades speckled with spots.

Symbolic meaning: healing, creativity

In season: June to September

Delphinium

Elegant, tall spikes lavished with flowers in shades of bright blue, indigo, lilac or white.

Symbolic meaning: devotion in love, goodwill

In season: June to July

Freesia

Pretty, funnel-shaped flowers with a rich scent and available in a range of colours.

Symbolic meaning: innocence, friendship

In season: July to October

Lupin

Dramatic spikes of petals in pretty pastel shades through to rich reds and purples.

Symbolic meaning: imagination, happiness

In season: late spring to early summer

Bespoke Blooms

Peony

Large, silken and scented blooms in colours ranging from pink and peach to crimson and white.

Symbolic meaning: romance, good luck, happiness

In season: late May to early July

Ranunculus

Pretty, papery clusters of petals available in a variety of shades from white and pink to red, yellow and orange.

Symbolic meaning: charm, beauty

In season: April to June

Poppy

Striking flowers with delicate petals in brilliant shades, from white and pink to yellow and opulent red.

Symbolic meaning: sleep, peace, beauty

In season: May to late June

There’s something beautiful about dressing your day with personalised petals. Helen Edwards of The Velvet Daisy (thevelvetdaisy.co.uk) and Lisa Grigsby of Down by the River Florals (downbytheriverflorals. co.uk) share their top tips...

1. Choose flowers that carry emotional importance. Ask yourself questions such as: what flowers did your mum or grandmother have in their bouquets? Do you have childhood memories of flowers that grew in your grandmother’s garden? What was the first flower your husband-to-be ever bought you? Simply having any of these blooms in your wedding flowers can be a secret reminder for you of happy memories.

2. Use personal items in your flowers. Small framed photographs of loved ones who can’t be there on your day can be either placed in your bouquet or perhaps in a top table arrangement for only you and you husband to see. Trinkets or jewellery can be incorporated into the bindings of bouquets. We had a bride once who sadly lost her father before her wedding day. His favourite flower was Bird of Paradise but it didn’t fit in with any of her wedding flowers. So we hid several of them inside decorations as well as wired one to the inside of a stone archway the bride walked through on her way down the aisle... Only she saw it but it made her feel like her dad was there walking with her. The options are really limitless.

Rose

Classic and romantic, multi-petal flowers available in almost every shade.

Symbolic meaning: love, romance, grace

In season: June to early autumn

3. Custom beadwork or embroidery can be used to wrap the handles of bridal and bridesmaids’ bouquets. We typically use Italian silk to wrap the handles of bridal bouquets but once we used antique lace that had been a table runner for her grandmother’s wedding breakfast, and it was stunning.

4. Use flowers that are seasonal, which will remind you of your wedding year in and year out. Being growers as well, we often provide our brides with seeds so they can regrow their bouquet in their own garden.

Tulip

Cheery flowers available in a range of varieties – including double, parrot and lily – and virtually every colour.

Symbolic meaning: love, affection, renewal

In season: March to May

5. One of the most important tips for personalising your wedding flowers is to really get involved in the design process with your floral designer. Your wedding flowers should involve more than a 15-minute conversation discussing colours and blooms! The process should involve several conversations, emails, Pinterest boards. Your flowers design will evolve during this process and eventually be everything you want them to be. This can ultimately be one of the most rewarding parts of your big day!

THE POWER OF PETALS

There’s a battle brewing in wedding world, with two opposite sides vying for the most attention. Both are infiltrating every element of the day, from the dress to the décor and, most notably, the flowers. Welcome to the stylistic conundrum that is: minimalism versus maximalism.

With current floristry trends adopting either a ‘less is more’ or ‘go big’ approach, it can be difficult to envision the effect your chosen blooms will have.

On one hand, you might adore the idea of pared-

back petals for understated impact, while, on the other, the lure of statement flora is their instant and undeniable wow factor.

“Minimalism versus maximalism in floristry can be seen in several ways,” says florist Emma Hewlett (emmahewlett.co.uk). “We are currently seeing a big influence from Australian wedding looks whereby foliage doesn’t play a heavy role in designs that are created purely from flowers, with no green and sometimes even just one flower variety.”

Hannah Burge from Fuss Pots (fusspots.co.uk) agrees.

“Keeping to one strong colour or one flower gives big impact,” she says. “For example, red roses can really pop and are a stunning contrast against muted sea blue and sand.”

There are multiple ways to achieve the maximalist look. Choosing mono-florals (a single variety and colour) or colour-blocking with a single saturation creates a striking focus that can be used everywhere from the bouquet and buttonholes to the centrepieces and ceremony space.

One of the leading statement floral features is

As wedding flower trends take things to extremes, we consider the allure of pared-back petals and boldly beautiful blooms

words Hannah May

Emma Hewlett Floral Design

Paige Grace Photography

chandeliers and hoops, as well as the burgeoning trend of dance floor installations. Others include architectural arrangements, staircase garlands, flowercovered cakes, dynamic aisles and tablescapes that play with a variety of colours, textures and heights. While layering your blooms, also explore the idea of arrangements in unusual or oft-neglected spaces, along with using lesser-known blooms and natural elements – for example, mushrooms, which add a fabulously rustic and textural twist.

Fusing a range of botanicals can create jaw-dropping displays with a maximalist feel, mashing styles and aesthetics that reflect wild natural spaces and provide bold and dramatic backdrops to boot. “Trees, plants and flowers can be used seamlessly together to create an incredible display, feeling like you are saying your vows in an English country garden or dining in a tropical jungle,” enthuses Hannah. “Royal and celebrity weddings alike have used plants and trees to create huge entrances and displays.”

“We’re seeing a big request for the ‘maximum’ with installations still proving popular in marquees and grand doorways,” notes Emma. “We have been designing some spectacular hanging installations using just a mix of greenery and adding lighting to ‘lift’ the design.”

Experimenting with flowers, greenery, lighting and the range of available spaces – both inside and out – can all ensure showstopping floristry, whether it’s of the simplistic or standout persuasion.

And remember… there are no rules. Work with your venue, theme, budget and florist to create a look and feel that fits you and your vision, and you can’t go too far awry. You could even attempt to conflate the two trends: a dramatic floral archway to utter your vows beneath, then express your more minimalist side with single-stem vases dotted throughout the reception space.

“Many of our weddings this year are seeing the style of single-variety flowers – but en masse, so I guess a mix of both!” observes Emma of the growing tendency toward merging the opposing aesthetics. The contrast alone could prove highly impactful; just make sure you engage the professional services of an experienced florist to help you strike the right stylistic chord.

Meanwhile, for those firmly rooted on the side of small and delicate floral designs, be assured that these can create a similarly stirring effect.

“Minimalism is playing a part in bouquet designs with many brides moving away from the oversized style and opting for something more dainty,” reveals Emma of the popularity of petite posies. “And lots of singlestem vases with only roses or dahlias is proving very popular – often in a white colour palette, creating a very crisp, modern look.”

Speaking of the all-important palette, this is something to discuss with your florist before settling on a scheme. Seasonality will play a role in what is available, as will your overarching theme or dress code.

Emma Hewlett Floral Design

Freeformimages Photography

Fuss Pots

Emma Hewlett Floral Design

Emma Hewlett Floral Design

The Velvet Daisy

Hannah Barnes

Fuss Pots

Paige Grace Photography

“Colour trends seem to be going one of two ways too – minimal with just whites or full-on summer vibes with a mad mix of colours,” says Emma of the emerging tones. These currently include pinks, greens and jewel tones including ruby, emerald and turquoise, while bright, colour-pop shades are also flooding florists’ mood boards.

Don’t forget to think about where and when you source your blooms. Many florists provide seasonal, home-grown flowers or source local or British blooms for greater sustainability, which remains one of the biggest buzzwords in floristry.

Another advantage of the minimal movement is its environmental impact, as simpler designs can also be more earth-friendly. “I have used dried elements, local driftwood and high seasonal summer flowers found in your typical Devon or Cornwall garden to keep environmental impact to a minimum,” explains Hannah. “At a recent wedding, although stem count was kept to a minimum, we worked with the stunning landscape at Watermouth Cove and therefore the impact was certainly not lost. I find that more and more couples want to work with the surroundings on offer and ‘borrow the landscape’, therefore enhancing their venue rather than trying to change it,” she adds. “This is a slowly growing trend that is based on rising costs of living as well as being more mindful of how one’s wedding will impact the environment.”

Another way to achieve a stripped-back and more eco-friendly look is to style your spaces using plants and trees. “This gives real bang for your buck!” says Hannah. “They can fill spaces that would cost the earth in flowers and I love the simplistic and organic look they can achieve.”

The desire for living arrangements like trees, potted palms and miniature herb gardens are the perfect solution to enhance the sensuous and sustainable aspects of your wedding, with the bonus that they can be gifted or taken home and planted as a lasting keepsake of your day.

And finally, florists and style forecasters are reporting another way to emphasise your chosen look beyond the use of the flowers: floral detailing. There’s a host of decorative elements through which your minimalist or maximalist vision can be accentuated, such as the table linens (think botanical embroideries and patterns), stationery (plant motifs, floral prints), candleholders and glassware (colour-matched to your blooms) and petal-pretty ornamentation everywhere from the dinner plates to the flatware.

The future of floristry also sees an emphasis on the vessels, especially with non-traditional pots and vases. Combining elements of your flowers’ colour, scent, variety and volume with where they’re placed – and what they’re placed in – adds extra dimension to your blooms, whatever end of the style spectrum you land.

Emma Hewlett Floral Design

Perdie’s Flowers Verity Westcott

Fuss Pots

The Velvet Daisy

The Velvet Daisy

Emma Hewlett Floral Design

Hannah Barnes

Rik Pennington

Nestling beneath the wild, sweeping contours of Bodmin Moor is a dense wooded valley where lush hills tumble down to the river below. Here, in a picture-perfect patchwork of orchards and meadows, you’ll find The Green.

Whether it’s a large-scale traditional affair, a cosy country celebration or a laidback festival-style party, the ethos is one of flexibility. Our team will use all our skills to deliver the calm, relaxed day that you dream of.

Hosting up to 140 guests, The Green has wedding barns, a luxurious house and cottages, all set in acres of beautiful countryside, accommodating as many as 32 guests.

The Most Natural Choice for your Perfect Wedding.

www.thegreencornwall.co.uk | 01579 362 253

The Green Cornwall,

Netherton Farm, Upton Cross, Liskeard, Cornwall, PL14 5BD

A beautiful venue where you can make the memories that will last a lifetime.

LARGE FORMAL WEDDINGS TO DANCING BARE-FOOT UNDER THE STARS...

looks we love

The wedding stylists share their favourite looks for a modern wedding

SINGLE STEM FLORALS GALORE “I love the impact of lots of single stem florals. It creates such a simple and delicate yet striking tablescape!” says Sophie. “Small, simple single stem vases work the best for this look. Make the flowers the accent and perhaps dot them throughout the table or cluster them to create a unique ‘bouquet’.”

TEXTURES “I am obsessed with textures at the moment, whether it’s using fabrics, florals, your name cards or some interesting centrepieces,” says Sophie. “I just love a table set-up with different texturesfor example, you could intertwine two table runners which are different fabrics or add some dried florals into your flowers to elevate the look. As for your name cards, consider shells with the names written in calligraphy to add a sleek texture.”

STYLIST:

Sophie Walker

Taking a vibrant and modern approach inspired by the passions and personalities of her clients, Sophie Walker of The Little Details by Sophie offers her wedding styling, planning and coordination services across Cornwall and beyond.

thelittledetailsbysophie.com

Styling The Little Details by Sophie / Photography Olivia WR Fine Art Photography

Styling The Little Details by Sophie / Photography Zara Davis

POPS OF PINK

“Weddings are bringing back colour and we’re loving pops of pink this year! Think jewel tones paired with shades of pink, dusky orange and metallic gold – a warm and welcoming colour palette but in a sophisticated way,” says Hazel.

“We adore this romantic and versatile trend as it will look wonderful with as much or as little colour as you would like, making it the perfect palette for any venue or style. Boho, luxe, rustic or traditional, it can be adapted to suit your dream wedding and budget without compromising on style. It’s one of our favourites this year as it really doesn’t take much for it to look visually spectacular! We love styling this palette by adding pops of colour in different textures to create a soft summery look. Think tall candle holders, ruched table runners, silk napkins, luxe cutlery, charger plates and dried or fresh flowers that will fill the space and visually pop. For more of a winter solstice style, use touches of gold with accents of soft autumnal colours paired with lots of tea lights and candlesticks.”

STYLIST: Hazel Parsons

A highly experienced Cornwall-based wedding planner, wedding venue consultant and stylist, Hazel pairs her event management skills with her styling expertise via Out of the Ordinary Wedding & Events and Out of the Ordinary Event Hire. outoftheordinaryweddings.com outoftheordinaryeventhire.com

MONOCHROME

“A monochrome palette is one of our favourite trends for 2023. Having a very simple yet elegant colour scheme is the perfect way to showcase your chic contemporary style with luscious monochrome tones and natural hues,” says Hazel.

“Create this simple, classic and effortlessly elegant design in more than two ways. Use touches of black, soft natural florals and complementing silky grey accents for a sophisticated yet classic and rustic tablescape. Make your style more luxurious with a monochromatic palette and add touches of silver; think sparkly crystal-cut glassware, silver cutlery and silver beaded charger plates against plenty of black décor to showcase the elegant shapes and clean design. Or, if you love this palette but also adore a colourful style, adding lots of colour, pink, peach or even red tones will make your monochrome palette pop!”

Pura Vida Cornwall

Styling Out of the Ordinary Weddings & Events / Photography Toby Lowe

Styling Out of the Ordinary Weddings & Events / Photography Toby Lowe

DRAMATIC INSTALLATIONS “I am having lots of conversations with couples about what is happening above their heads! As people opt for more simple table florals, we are seeing an increase in bigger and more dramatic ceiling installations,” says Rebecca. “We are seeing a big lean towards creating more intimate and romantic spaces with draping and fabric installations. Quite often, that involves mixing mediums such as fabrics, florals and lighting to ultimately change the appearance of a particular space; this is a great tool if you have a barn-style venue but don’t want to go rustic with the décor.”

STYLIST: Rebecca Barallon

Wedding planner and stylist Rebecca Barallon of Rebecca Marie Weddings & Events creates incredibly stylish and unforgettable celebrations unique to each couple, full of passion, personality, style and soul.

rebeccamarieweddings.co.uk

SIMPLIFIED STATIONERY “We are seeing more streamlined stationery choices for wedding days. This avoids waste but also creates less clutter on your beautifully styled tablescape! Think menus with guest names already added or a timeline for the day printed alongside the menu,” says Rebecca. “This adds to the everpopular clean and simple aesthetic that we are seeing everywhere in 2023 and is relatively easy to achieve; in some cases, you may need to be more organised to ensure guests’ names are printed on the correct menu choices!”

Amy Chapple Photography

Styling Rebecca Marie Weddings & Events / Photography We Are The James’s

Stationery Gray Starling Designs Photography Kamila Nowak

Styling Rebecca Marie Weddings & Events / Photography Emily Jayne Weddings

Styling Rebecca Marie Weddings & Events Photography Marta D. Weddings

Styling Rebecca Marie Weddings & Events Photography The Unbridled

Stationery Gray Starling Designs Photography Kamila Nowak

BOLD COLOUR PALETTES “We’ve seen a lot of playing safe when it comes to weddings over the past few years, whether that’s classic white and green foliage, or neutral boho with lots of pampas grass,” says Nikki. “It’s natural to feel like you don’t want your wedding to ‘date’ so you don’t take any risks with colour. But the following trends in interiors and fashion – such as colour blocking, bold pastels and retro colours – are just as doable for weddings. However you style your wedding, it will always date to some extent, so why not have a bit of fun and reflect your personality a bit more!” she adds.

“My key piece of advice when going for a bolder colour palette is layering,” continues Nikki. “Pick some base neutrals (anything from browns and caramels to black, white or even navy and dark green) and then add one, two or even three accent colours. This makes finding everything from bridesmaids’ dresses to ties and napkins so much easier as you haven’t restricted yourself to one single colour. And then have fun! Clashing colours are perfect for this look, so pair lilacs with orange, or burgundy with pink and mustard yellow as I’ve done in this ‘70s disco look.”

Wedding stylist Nikki Sherriff from Knots & Kisses designs stunning, cohesive looks full of visual drama and personality, expertly styling your wedding to turn your vision into reality. knotsandkisses.co.uk

STYLIST: Nikki Sherriff

Styling Knots & Kisses

/ Photography Melanie Barnfield / Flowers Brompton Buds

Wedding speeches are no longer just the comical cliché between the best man and groom or an emotional tribute between the bride and her father. They are now the central moment of your big day and a true reflection of your relationship. And, in a world where the majority of communication is done via electronics, the power of a perfect wedding speech has grown. The spoken word has a different type of connection and will define your relationship with people for years to come.

Heidi Ellert-McDermott, founder of Speechy (speechy.com) and the author of The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches, tells us how the often-overlooked speeches can kick off your wedding with a bang, and how to achieve a cracker of a tear-jerking, laughter-inducing speech…

Learn modern speech etiquette

Etiquette is something many speakers struggle with. “It’s simply a case of common sense and being polite,” says Heidi. You no longer need to address everyone as ‘ladies and gentlemen’, nor for the groom to conclude his speech with a toast to the bridesmaids. Likewise, there’s no need to hand out gifts during a speech (it may be better to do it privately).

“Modern etiquette simply means welcoming your guests, paying tribute to your partner, the main wedding party and, if necessary, those who are dearly departed,” says Heidi.

Timing is everything

It turns out size does matter – especially when it comes to speeches. Ideally, the length of your speech should range from 1,000 to 1,300 words and,

allowing for laughter and the occasional ad lib, you can deliver this in under 10 minutes. Whilst this may seem intimidating to begin with, time will fly. “You don’t want to skimp on your speech or give yourself an unrealistic word count target,” says Heidi. And rarely has anyone listened to a speech and said: “I wish it was longer”.

Make a joke within the first 30 seconds

“Humour is not the reserve of funny people,” says Heidi. “Neither should it be assumed that being funny is hard.” There’s no doubt that some people are just naturally funny, but that doesn’t mean the more introverted of speakers shouldn’t aim to make their audience smile (and this doesn’t mean a polite smile, but rather a warm, involuntary one).

Ensure your wedding speeches are memorable for the right reasons. These guidelines will help you blend humour, fun and sentimentality

Warming up with a light-hearted, inclusive joke within the first 30 seconds puts you and your audience at ease – it is scientifically recognised that laughter is ‘social bonding juice’. Self-deprecating humour is always a winner and has been proven to make audiences warm more to the speaker.

Forget Googled gags

“If the joke could be used in someone else’s wedding speech, it shouldn’t be in yours,” advises Heidi. In fact, including even one Googled gag in your speech will take the shine off any of the original lines you’ve crafted and people may end up assuming you’ve stolen them all.

If speaking at your own wedding, relish the fact that no one else knows about all the weird and wonderful quirks and habits of your relationship. Give an insight into your differences, your strange similarities and those regular debates you have about how to load the dishwasher.

Giving an insight into your everyday relationship shows your love in action as well as adding humour and depth. Remember the adage ‘It’s funny because it’s true’ and find the natural comedy lurking in your life that everyone will relate to.

Stories not adjectives

“Telling a good story helps sync your mind with your guests. When people hear an engaging story, they put themselves in your shoes and that process forms a deeper connection,” states Heidi.

Collect a few of your favourite anecdotes to draw on, but remember, they don’t have to be long or extraordinary – they just need to reveal something special about the relationship. “We’re all born storytellers,” she says. “Don’t think you need to write War and Peace. The story of how you met can be just as entertaining, if not more, than any Tolstoy classic.”

Don’t begin with thank you

Every memorable speech begins by making the audience laugh, not by boring them with a bunch of random thank yous. Think of those Oscar speeches. The thanks yous are really only interesting if you’re one of the people who’s being thanked!

“They can feel a bit too predictable,” explains Heidi. “Win over your audience first and then they’ll already have a smile on their faces before you get to the thank yous.”

Cut the clichés

Whether you want to make people laugh or pay a heartfelt tribute to them, cut out the platitudes. Don’t thank your in-laws for ‘raising a wonderful person’, thank them for introducing you to Cat Chaos and South African Malbec.

When it comes to your parents, think of the joy they’ve brought to your life, rather than specifically what they’ve contributed to the wedding. Thank them for tolerating your desire to be a grime artist and never refusing to sit in the passenger seat even after you’d failed your driving test for the third time.

Be romantic, not cheesy

Despite what the rom coms suggest, you can be romantic without being cheesy. “To be genuinely romantic, you have to hunt down the things that make your partner them,” says Heidi. Leave out the obvious ‘soulmate’ and ‘best friend’ remarks and swap them for the traits and quirks that make your partner unique.

“Your speech has the power to leave an imprint on people’s hearts. It’s one of the most life-affirming gifts you can give someone; a recognition of how important they are to you,” Heidi concludes. ‘Make sure you say more than just wedding waffle!”

The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches by Heidi EllertMcDermott is available now

Alan Law Photography

Landal Gwel an Mor Award-Winning Wedding Venue 2021

From large gatherings, vow renewals and intimate elopement ceremonies, to live-streaming your wedding worldwide and drive-in weddings on our big screen, we have the perfect wedding for you...

Photo Paul Keppel Photography

wed’s VENUES GUIDE

Choosing a wedding venue is usually the first stop on the planning checklist. From country houses to beach-chic party spots, wed reveals Cornwall’s standout settings for a wow-worthy wedding

VENUES GUIDE:

BEACH & WATERSIDE

Lusty Glaze

Tie the knot with the sand between your toes at this sublime cove on the edge of Newquay. Crowned the UK’s Best Coastal Wedding Venue in the 2019 UK Wedding Awards, the beach venue is available to hire on an exclusive-use basis. The venue, of course, comes with uninterrupted ocean views and, with fiery sunsets and dramatic cliffs – plus the option for a mid-celebration surf and dancing in the sand under the stars – this little cove offers romance in spades for sea-loving souls. lustyglaze.co.uk

Total capacity: 120 day, 200 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 30

Dog-friendly: Yes

Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate

Perched on the edge of its own Blue Flag beach overlooking St Ives Bay, Carbis Bay Estate offers a dream destination wedding setting on Cornish shores. Set amidst subtropical gardens, the 125-acre estate comprises a hotel, spa, pool, beach club, myriad accommodation options – and a choice of wedding venues depending on the style of celebration you’re seeking. Choose Ugly Butterfly by Adam Handling for breathtaking panoramas across the sea alongside stunning seasonal menus or The Wedding Hut for ceremonies on the sand and celebrations in a chic coastal setting. The light-filled Godrevy Room also comes with dreamy views, while The Gannet Inn offers a cosy space for intimate weddings with boutique accommodation. carbisbayhotel.co.uk

Total capacity: The Godrevy Room: 40

The Wedding Hut: 120

Ugly Butterfly: 150

The Gannet: 80

Spa Pavilion: 10

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 36 rooms in Main House, 8 suites, 8 luxury lodges, 4 valley cottages, 6 valley apartments & coastal properties

Dog-friendly: Yes, in The Wedding Hut

When you think of Cornwall, you think of the coast –and, from luxe hotel soirées to laidback sand-between-your-toes celebrations, the county has it

Dan Ward Photography

Alexa Poppe Photography

Mark Noall Photography Katie Goff Photography

Polhawn Fort

Nestled in a tucked-away corner of the Rame Peninsula with soul-stirring sea views, Polhawn Fort really is the stuff of dreams. The Napoleonic Fort sits on a Cornish clifftop with rolling lawns and wildflower-filled gardens slipping down to the sea and a private beach for loved up wanders at the water’s edge. Available for two, three or four day weddings, take your vows beneath the vaulted ceilings and twinkling lights of the grand Napoleonic hall or head outside for a sun-kissed garden ceremony in the summerhouse. Whether you’re dreaming of frolics on the sands and sundowners on the Mediterraneaninspired roof terrace or cosy candlelit celebrations with the waves crashing at the shore below, this captivating exclusiveuse venue offers an extraordinary setting to begin married life. polhawnfort.com

Total capacity: 100

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 16

Dog-friendly: Yes

The Godolphin

Boasting one of the most iconic views in Cornwall and beyond, The Godolphin gazes directly at St Michael’s Mount, making a wedding here as unforgettable as it is breathtakingly beautiful. With three packages available, including exclusive-use, for weddings up to 50-100 guests, you’re assured a dream blend of stylish interiors, sumptuous food and top-notch service in this incredibly scenic location. Stage a ceremony on the terrace, with the castle and sea as your backdrop, before taking a stroll on the sands and soaking up the relaxed ambience over cocktails on the terrace. Enjoy a delicious wedding feast packed with local produce and kick off an evening of festivities as the sun slips behind Mount’s Bay. Complete with boutique accommodation, The Godolphin is the ultimate setting for a dream water’s edge wedding in Cornwall. thegodolphin.com

Total capacity: 80 day, 110 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 10 rooms

Dog-friendly: Yes

Polurrian on the Lizard

Perched on the clifftops gazing over Mounts Bay, the Polurrian has entertained guests for over 100 years. Rebranded as ‘Polurrian on the Lizard’ in 2019, this stunning Edwardian property has been fused with a fresh modern atmosphere, where classic architecture and history meets contemporary comfort and local excellence. Say “I do” with views, stretching from Mullion to St Michael’s Mount and beyond, set in 12 acres of mature gardens with its own secluded beach. There are a variety of packages ranging from day-use weddings to exclusive events, and a choice of three rooms for your ceremony and wedding breakfast. Every Polurrian wedding is given the utmost care and attention, allowing the bride and groom the freedom to be unique and personal while creating their special day. polurrianhotel.com

Total capacity: 90

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 41 rooms

Dog-friendly: Yes

Beacon Crag

Just a stone’s throw from the harbour town of Porthleven you’ll find Beacon Crag, a one-of-a-kind bed and breakfast perched on the cliffs. Set within five acres of private grounds and terraced gardens, the venue boasts staggering views across the sea and rugged cliffscape with its own access to the rocky coves below. Catering for elopements and intimate weddings through to large-scale marquee receptions, it’s a wildly romantic place to wed, whether the stormy seas are crashing below or the sun is glinting on the calm waters. And with luxurious accommodation on-site, you can sink into a super-comfortable bed when the party’s over – and wake to those awe-inspiring sea views.

beaconcrag.com

Total capacity: 15 inside, 300 with marquee

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 10; 4 rooms plus apartment

Dog-friendly: Yes

Land’s End Hotel

With the Atlantic Ocean as your breathtaking backdrop, a wedding at the award-winning Land’s End Hotel offers an irresistible blend of drama, romance and a stirring sense of place. Set atop 200ft cliffs at the western tip of the country, the Victorian hotel blends traditional charm and modern touches. From elopements and intimate gatherings to celebrations for up to 120, you can look forward to a bespoke menu of the finest local flavours served alongside mesmerising ocean views. Complete with accommodation in the form of newly refurbished en suite bedrooms, the elegant Penwith Studios and a luxe honeymoon suite, you’ll be tempted to stay awhile and savour your newlywed bubble on the clifftops of this extraordinary place. landsendhotel.co.uk

Total capacity: 120

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 35 en suite bedrooms, 4 Penwith Studios, 1 Saddle Apartment & 3 Stable Rooms

Dog-friendly: Yes

Atlantic Hotel

With an endless stretch of ocean shimmering at the windows, the Atlantic Hotel – perched close to Fistral Beach on Cornwall’s north coast – offers a glamorous and versatile take on seaside luxury. The clifftop venue wows from the moment you enter the red-carpet-adorned marble entrance, with its sweeping staircase, glittering chandeliers, champagne bar and sun-trap pool. Hosting weddings for 10 through to 500 guests, choose from the art deco-styled Grand Ballroom, the elegant Tea Lounge or the Gatsby-esque vibe of Café Atlantica to take your vows. Take a loved-up wander across the headland as the sun sets and listen to the murmur of the tide from your sea view room.

atlantichotelnewquay.co.uk

Total capacity: 500

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 91 rooms and suites

Dog-friendly: Yes

I Do Film + Photos

Gwel an Mor

A versatile venue on the north Cornwall coastline, Gwel an Mor offers you everything from rustic back-to-nature weddings to glamorous celebrations. Marry in the beautiful boho-style yurt or the rustic events barn, and take a wander through the woodland valley to the sands of Portreath for some newlywed photos. The spa, restaurant and vast of accommodation – from luxury Scandinavian style pine lodges and lakeside eco lodges – are at the fingertips of your family and friends for a luxurious break. You can enjoy the company of the birds of prey and resident reindeer –perfect photo opportunity and not to mention a delight for gwelanmor.com

150 day, 250 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 350+

The Gannet

Located in Carbis Bay, The Gannet lies just a short distance from award-winning Blue Flag Carbis Bay Beach and is just a mile from the quaint streets and sandy beaches of St Ives. Being the sister hotel to Carbis Bay Estate, ceremony and photo opportunities on beautiful Carbis Bay Beach are just some of the attractions of marrying at The Gannet. A spacious and stylish space for taking your vows and celebrating, the lounge, restaurant and cocktail bar area is styled with luxe furnishings, chesterfield sofas and quirky accents. A delicious menu will be designed around your tastes: think hearty dishes packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients and washed down with a heady choice of fine wines and local ales and spirits. The 16 individually designed bedrooms offer a blend of mellow coastal hues, bold décor and elevated sea views. With exclusive hire options available, you can enjoy a private party at the venue, making cherished memories on the beach as well as in the versatile and characterful climes of this boutique retreat. gannetstives.co.uk

Total capacity: 50

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 16 rooms

Dog-friendly: Yes

St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa

Boasting a picture-perfect position overlooking Porthminster Beach and the fresh-from-a-painting seascape of St Ives Bay, St Ives Harbour Hotel hosts grand-scale weddings through to more intimate affairs in its gorgeously designed interiors. There’s a choice of suites for ceremonies and celebrations, a superbly positioned terrace, beautiful intertwined jasmine arches and manicured gardens offering scenic spots for your guests to take in the views. And, of course, the sands of Porthminster Beach make the perfect backdrop for those just-married photos. Your guests will love waking to a sweep of blue sea and white sands in the boutique bedrooms and unwinding in the spa, which offers a tempting selection of treatments. harbourhotels.co.uk/hotels/st-ives

Total capacity: 200

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 50 rooms

Dog-friendly: Yes

Katie Goff Photography

An iconic country house in the heart of the Cornish countryside.

Scorrier House is a historic family home in the heart of Cornwall where unforgettable weddings can unfold in a truly magical setting.

• Accommodation for 20 guests with glamping options in the grounds.

• Multiple indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces.

• Seats up to 120 guests in one room in the house or unlimited ceremony numbers outside in the gardens.

Surrounded by ancient parkland and gardens, Scorrier affords complete exclusivity where a fairytale wedding tailored to your every whim.

• Exclusive hire of the house and gardens.

Images by Paul Keppel Photography and Jack Westhead Photography

Fowey Hall Hotel

Perched high above Fowey, Fowey Hall Hotel boasts awe-inspiring views across the waters of the estuary and the ocean beyond. Thought to be the inspiration for Toad Hall in Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows, the Victorian mansion is rich in opulent features, bringing a sense of relaxed grandeur to your day. Drinks on the croquet lawn while the warm sun shimmers on the sea offer heady romance during spring and summer, while festivities amidst crackling fires and vistas across white-tipped oceans are equally soul-stirring in winter. There’s also a sumptuous selection of bedrooms, a crèche, cinema room and spa with an outdoor hot tub – a dreamy spot for toasting your nuptials. foweyhallhotel.co.uk

The Rockpool

The Rockpool is the perfect place to enjoy the enchanting Cornish north coast, just steps away from the sea, offering a unique and memorable destination for both ceremony and reception. Nestled in the dunes of Gwithian and Godrevy, surrounded by breathtaking views over to the National Trust headland, the beautifully relaxed and spacious venue offers a unique wedding destination, whether you are looking for an intimate ceremony or a larger event. The wedding coordinator will work with you to create your bespoke day, from the menu and the layout to every last detail. The extensive list of recommended local suppliers can assist the rest of your decisions so that together the team can design your perfect, laidback coastal celebration. therockpoolbeachcafe.co.uk

Total capacity: 80 day, 120 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 1 flat, sleeps 4

Dog-friendly: Yes

Nestled amidst the buildings on the banks of Fowey estuary, The Old Quay House Hotel was formerly a refuge for seamen – today, it’s a sanctuary of luxury and tranquillity where mesmerising views across the water come with elegantly styled interiors and fine food. Available for exclusive-use weddings, marry on the water’s edge terrace where the sea air, call of seabirds, and fishing boats bobbing by promise a ceremony to remember. Indoor options comprise the Penthouse Suite and waterfront restaurant, which also makes a gorgeous setting to dine on a bespoke menu brimming with local delicacies – think Fowey River oysters and local scallops washed down with champagne. theoldquayhouse.com

Total capacity: 70

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 13 rooms

Dog-friendly: On terrace only

Total capacity: 120

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 72, plus children

Dog-friendly: Yes

The Greenbank

Perched on a harbour with breathtaking views across the River Fal, The Greenbank Hotel sets the scene for a stylish waterside wedding. Dating back to the 17th century, the four-star hotel’s historic character has been brilliantly blended with plush modern comforts and luxe accents. Food is a key focus and bespoke menus are brimming with fine local produce: think fresh seafood washed down with hand-picked wines, artisan spirits and Cornish craft beers. Guests can mingle on the terrace with cocktails or even head to the private sandy beach. And the bridal suite has a rolltop bathtub, huge bed and private balcony – the perfect spot for a sundowner as you watch the boats chug by. greenbank-hotel.co.uk

Total capacity: 100 day, 120 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 120

Dog-friendly: Yes

Nick Bailey Photography

TREVENNA

BEAUTIFULLY ROMANTIC BEAUTIFULLY ROMANTIC

BEAUTIFULLY ROMANTIC

The Driftwood Spars

Perched on the edge of Trevaunance Cove in St Agnes, The Driftwood Spars is rich in the atmosphere of the Cornish coast. Dating back to the 1650s, the building has been a tin mining warehouse, sail-making loft and fish cellar – now a cosy pub, this seaside treasure offers charm-packed spaces for a relaxed and sustainable beachside wedding. There’s a Cliffside Garden for drinks receptions served with salty air, sea views and a huge choice of hand-picked ales, ciders, wines and spirits as well as handcrafted beers from the venue’s own brewery. Add feasts rich in locally sourced produce and you have all the ingredients for a laidback coastal celebration. driftwoodspars.co.uk

Total capacity: 83 day, 120 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 37

Dog-friendly: Yes

The Rosevine

Located within pebble-hurling distance of the shore on the edge of the Roseland Peninsula, this home-from-home Georgian house has cosy lounges, an indoor pool, a restaurant and 15 apartments. Blending its 18th century elegance with contemporary seaside style, the ‘Big House by the Sea’ is ideal for a relaxed coastal celebration. Host a gorgeously intimate ceremony and feast inside the house for up to 65 or throw a dazzling tipi reception on the lawn with views across Gerrans Bay for larger numbers. Draw the day to a close with toasting marshmallows under the stars to the whisper of the sea. Dreamy. rosevine.co.uk

Total capacity: 65, plus extra with marquee

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 15 apartments, sleeps 30

Dog-friendly: Yes

Above the Bay

Above the Bay offers a relaxed and contemporary setting for a wedding complete with mesmerising sea views. Flanked by Falmouth Golf Course, the venue is a sun-soaked spot where you can spill onto the terrace for drinks and take in the coastal panoramas during the warmer months. Similarly romantic during the winter, enjoy epic photographs against stormy skies and return to your magically lit party space to enjoy festivities before views across rolling waves. A light-filled blank canvas for styling to your taste, choose from a selection of menus or design a bespoke feast of locally sourced ingredients. With a dedicated wedding coordinator on hand, you can relax and savour every moment of your celebrations above this special stretch of Cornwall’s coastline. abovethebay.co.uk

Total capacity: 80 ceremony, 100 wedding breakfast, 180 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: No

Dog-friendly: Only during the ceremony

The Llawnroc

Nestled in the fishing village of Gorran Haven on Cornwall’s south coast, The Llawnroc Hotel is an away-from-it-all sanctuary where you can combine a sand-and-sea celebration with the luxuries and comforts of a boutique hotel. The venue offers a choice of rooms for ceremonies and celebrations with views across the gardens and the ocean beyond, and 18 individually styled bedrooms for your guests to enjoy the venue’s sumptuous brand of seaside style a little longer. Take the path down to the beach climb to the clifftops for photographs and magical moments at the water’s edge, or drink in the ocean vibes and delicious cocktails on the sun-trap terrace. thellawnroc.co.uk

Total capacity: 80 day, 200 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 18 rooms

Dog-friendly: No

Lee Maxwell Photography

Rain or Shine

Bespoke ceremony and reception for up to 220 guests – barn wedding in Tredudwell Pavillion

Small and intimate ceremony and reception in authentically restored Manor house Outdoor ceremony temples and natural amphitheatre for up to 250 guests

Lanteglos by Fowey, Cornwall PL23 1 NJ | 01726 www.tredudwell.co.uk

Photo: Dan Ward Photography

VENUES GUIDE:

RUSTIC & COUNTRYSIDE

The Gate

A hidden sanctuary located between Looe and Polperro on Cornwall’s south coast, The Gate presents a picturesque setting to marry, make merry and spend a cherished few days alongside sweeping countryside views and the luxurious facilities of a boutique hotel. Available for intimate weddings to large-scale celebrations, the exclusive-use venue offers a choice of three idyllic settings for ceremonies, a stretch tent in the garden and a newly renovated reception hall for sit-down feasting and dancing the night away. The stylish accommodation features king-sized beds, private balconies with outdoor baths and rolling country views. From garden vows and starlit moments around the firepit to dancing beneath the stars and a blissful soak in the outdoor bath, the dreamiest of days is guaranteed.

thegatecornwall.com

Total capacity: 150

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 24

Dog-friendly: Yes

Trevenna

This rural treasure sits amidst 142 acres of countryside where the Tor-dotted horizons of Bodmin Moor meet sprawling expanses and wooded valleys. Bespoke weddings are a speciality; the historic cluster of barns offers exclusive-use of the facilities and accommodation for a one, two or threenight hire. Kick off the fun with a welcome meal in the farmhouse and drinks at the bar stocked with local craft beers, spirits and wines. Get married in the restored Threshing Barn or the Garden Venue, a light and versatile space overlooking the garden meadow across to Berry Tor. Or marry outdoors beneath the handcrafted arbour with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Dinner will be a treat – look forward to a seriously good feast of local flavours from Trevenna’s Event Kitchen. trevenna.co.uk

Total capacity: 120 day, 150 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 40

Dog-friendly: Yes

From rustic barns to modern spaces flanked by wooded valleys and rural panoramas, throw your dream wedding in the Cornish countryside

Hendra Barns

The jewel in the crown of this secluded rural idyll is the picturesque arbour, hugged by green pasture and the twinkling waters of a lake. You can marry here, amidst the fresh air, birdsong and acres of idyllic Cornish countryside, or in the lakeview conservatory, which offers views across the rolling grounds from floor-to-ceiling windows. Whether you’re planning a classic, rustic or festival vibe, the sprawling lawns of Hendra Barns make a dreamy spot for a tipi or marquee reception. As well as accommodation for 20 in three luxurious properties, a vaulted ceiling function barn for indoor receptions makes it the ideal year-round venue. hendrabarns.co.uk

Total capacity: 60 (more with marquee)

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 20

Dog-friendly: Yes

Pengenna Manor

Flanked by a wooded valley, this 800-year-old estate lies amidst 300 acres of countryside close to the north coast. Weddings are private, exclusive affairs with a range of stunning spots to take your vows. There’s the summerhouse, with its valley views while guests watch from an avenue of apple and cherry blossom trees, and the former cow shed, which has been converted for rustic-chic ceremonies and wedding receptions for up to 100 guests. Then there’s the Grade II manor house itself, where you can say “I do” in the archway of the 450-year-old front door or the drawing room. As well as plentiful accommodation you’ll find gorgeous celebration spaces galore, from the former cowyard for fizz-fuelled mingling to the marquee garden for festival-style celebrations where marquees can be erected to host up to 350 guests. pengennamanor.co.uk

Total capacity: 100 in barn, 350 with marquee

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 18

Dog-friendly: Yes

Nancarrow Farm

Set against a backdrop of open grassy spaces, fruit orchards and rolling pasture, this working organic farm offers the dream rural wedding in lovingly converted barns where rambling roses clamber up the walls and wild flowers scent the air. Tie the knot amidst the rustic charm of the hay barn or the southfacing courtyard before moving onto the green-oak framed event barn for feasting and merriment bathed in natural light with millpond views. The finest seasonal produce and the farm’s own organic meat and kitchen-garden vegetables go into the super-tasty menus. Nancarrow’s kitchen team cook mostly over woodfire and their home produced Wilder Wood’s Charcoal. Accommodation for 26 is available in the restored barns and two shepherd’s huts and a cabin located in The Orchard. nancarrowfarm.co.uk

Total capacity: 130 day, 160 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 26

Dog-friendly: No

Knightor

Hugged by traditional Cornish hedges in a picture-perfect corner of the countryside, Knightor comprises four acres of vineyards, pastures and orchard with a courtyard and 18th century threshing barn at its heart. Marry amidst the exposed stone walls and twinkling beams of the barn or beneath the spectacular arbour overlooking the pond. Delight your guests with carefully curated menus brimming with locally sourced ingredients washed down with Knightor’s exceptional collection of wines. Spend your wedding night in Orchard Barn, a modern studio barn nestled amidst the meadow grass and apple and pear trees of the orchard, while 12 further guests can savour the comforts of Knightor Manor. knightor.com

Total capacity: 90 ceremony, 150 evening reception

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 14, plus two bell tents

Dog-friendly: Yes

Lower Bussow Farm

Set amidst sweeping fields on the edge of St Ives, Lower Bussow Farm offers the best of coast and countryside, with the sandy beaches of the seaside town within easy reach, while a walk along the footpath to Rosewall Hill affords spectacular views across the surrounding coastline. Enjoy an al fresco blessing beneath the cedar-roofed pagoda – a seriously scenic spot flanked by wildflowers – or inside the stunning wedding barn, which offers feast-style dining, a fully staffed kitchen and bar, a firepit and ample space for live music and dancing. Accommodation comes in the form of cosy cottages, refurbished barns, a farmhouse and small campsite. lowerbussowfarm.co.uk

Total capacity: 200 day, 500 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: No - blessings available

Guest accommodation: For 18 in cottages

Dog-friendly: Yes (on a lead)

The Green

This former dairy farm is now a ready-made wedding village set amidst meadows and rolling woodland on the edge of Bodmin Moor. From a cosy do for two to a big bash for 140, there’s a choice of settings to exchange vows, from the house and country-chic wedding barn to the lake arbour in the woods and the oak arbour with views across the valley. A former cow shed, the Red Brick Barn is a perfect party space with its characterful brick walls and beams, while the Really Rustic Barn offers an industrial style backdrop. And the cottage accommodation is pretty special too! thegreencornwall.co.uk

Total capacity: 140

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 42

Dog-friendly: Yes

Victoria Walker Photography

Sofie

Michelle Photography

Ben Selway Photography

Dan Ward Photography

Nick Pumphrey Photography

 Dan Ward

Tredudwell Manor

There’s so much that makes Tredudwell Manor spine-tinglingly romantic, from the picture-perfect country location just 10 minutes from the secret coves and sparkling seas of the south coast to the 18th-century manor house and ceremony temple flanked by a Roman folly, pond and natural amphitheatre. A purpose-built pavilion offers a brilliantly flexible blank canvas space for celebrations all year round thanks to its light, airy climes in summer and snug underfloor heating in winter. There’s also accommodation in the manor house and parkland and gardens entwined with climbing roses – perfect for lawn games and ice creams bathed in Cornish sunshine. tredudwell.co.uk

Total capacity: 220

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 18

Dog-friendly: Yes

Trenderway

Gaze out across a gorgeous sweep of Cornish countryside, scattered with lakes and woodland, as you get wed at Trenderway, where there’s a choice of four licensed locations for ceremonies. Choose from the historic restored barns – all exposed stone and aged beams woven with twinkling lights – or outdoors with meadow views. The 200-year-old Cornish granite Linhay Barn, with its oak floors, whitewashed walls and cosy bar, is an atmospheric space for feasting and partying, while the cobbled courtyard is just the spot for gathering in the sunshine. What’s more, the accommodation comes complete with a five-star Cornish breakfast served in the garden – if the weather permits! trenderwayweddings.co.uk

Total capacity: 150 day, 250 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 14

Dog-friendly: Yes

Stennack Farm

This family-run working farm is home to an exclusive and secluded wedding venue, set amidst acres of meadows and woodland just a short drive from St Ives and Godrevy. A beautifully renovated cow barn sets the scene for the country celebration of your dreams, thanks to its contemporary design and blank canvas aesthetic. With a cluster of luxury barn conversions on the doorstep, the wedding party can stay on-site and enjoy snug beds, hot tubs and al fresco dining amidst the Cornish countryside. stennackfarm.com

Total capacity: 150

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 20

Dog-friendly: Yes

Toby Lowe Photography

Enchanted Brides

Photography

Albion Row Photography

Albion Row Photography

Tregedna Weddings

Steal away to the south coast where Tregedna Farm offers a choice of two character-filled settings for intimate weddings through to large-scale celebrations in a secluded rural idyll. Marry in The Loft, a traditional barn setting with rustic beams, or The Barn, a blank canvas backdrop for styling as you wish, before heading to nearby Maenporth beach for photos and just-married moments on the sands. With accommodation for 24, you’ll be tempted to extend the festivities and soak up the scenery and romance of this enchanting corner of Cornwall. tregednaweddings.co.uk

Total capacity: 100 seated, 150 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 24

Dog-friendly: Yes (but not permitted in bedrooms)

The Barn at Pengelly

Set amidst 500 acres of scenic farmland on the edge of Truro, The Barn at Pengelly offers a purpose-built wedding space overlooking rolling hills and serene lakes. Bathed in natural light, marry inside the glass-fronted barn, with its lofty ceilings, bi-folding doors and sweeping views, or venture outside for vows on the terrace. With blank canvas interiors and a well-stocked bar (including Pimm’s on tap!), the barn can be styled according to your vision for a beautifully individual celebration. Imagine drifting onto the terrace for sun-drenched drinks and games while soaking up the panoramas across the surrounding meadows. Spend your first night as a married couple in the luxurious eco cabin, gazing at the stars from your lakeside hammock and waking to views across the tranquil waters. pengellyweddings.com

Total capacity: 150 day, 300 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: Honeymoon cabin for newlyweds plus cottage accommodation for 21

Dog-friendly: Yes

Hustyns Resort Cornwall

Flanked by 90 acres of lush grounds and woodland in St Breock Downs near Wadebridge, the Cornish countryside sets the scene for a wedding celebration in this country club style hotel. Celebrations take place in the brasserie or restaurant – flexible, blank canvas spaces for weddings of all styles and scales – with views across the lawns, fountain and water feature. A choice of hotel rooms, self-catering lodges and glamping on-site means the whole wedding party can enjoy the extended celebrations; plus, Hustyns Spa is home to a gym, pool, sauna and steam room and a range of spa treatments – perfect for some pre-wedding pampering and postwedding downtime. hustyns.co.uk

Total capacity: 250+

Civil ceremonies licence: No - reception only & non-legal ceremonies

Guest accommodation: 35+ hotel rooms & private lodges

Dog-friendly: Yes

VENUES GUIDE:

MANOR HOUSES & CASTLES

Live out your very own fairytale in one of Cornwall’s elegant country houses or majestic castles

Scorrier House

Situated at the heart of 400 acres of magnificent parkland, Scorrier House sets the dreamy scene for an exclusive wedding for up to 160 guests. The jewel in the crown of the historic manor house is the Grand Hall with its lofty ceilings, elegant architectural features and idyllic views across the grounds – hold your ceremony here, or, for something more intimate, there’s the gilded Drawing Room, or even the gazebo in the pretty pool garden. There’s also a classical orangery filled with lush plants, the Blue Library – a cosy spot for unwinding during the celebrations – and accommodation in the house itself as well as the Stable House across the courtyard. scorrierhouse.co.uk

Total capacity: 160

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 20

Dog-friendly: By arrangement

Burncoose House

The woodland gardens of Burncoose House make for a captivating carnival of colour in the spring and early summer – all camellias, magnolias and hydrangeas framed by blossom-cloaked trees. Then there’s the house itself: the Grade II listed Jacobean and Georgian gem has been renovated to create a luxurious retreat, which sleeps up to 14 in seven en suite bedrooms. From snug celebrations in rooms warmed by roaring fires in winter to al fresco celebrations under the stars in summer, this year-round venue offers small-scale weddings in the house to large marquee receptions on the lawn. Extend the festivities for a few days with lazy barbecues and long soaks in the hot tub. burncoosehouse.co.uk

Total capacity: 250 with marquee

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 14

Dog-friendly: Yes

Tim Woolcock Photography

Lizzie Churchill Photography

Lizzie Churchill Photography

Boconnoc

Set in undulating Cornish countryside, Boconnoc immediately whisks you into a magical, timeless romance. The lovingly restored Boconnoc House sits next to a stunning 700-year old church and additional accommodation is situated in the 18th century stable yard. Whether it is an intimate wedding of 15 or a party of up to 40 guests, there is accommodation for everyone on-site. Glamping in the grounds is also available from summer 2021. Design your own unique day, picking and choosing your dream settings. Marry in the church, stable yard, sunken Georgian Bath House or Dorothy Garden. Enjoy fizz by the lake, dine in elegance or dance under the stars. Throw the wedding of your dreams, however large or small at Boconnoc, one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets. boconnoc.com

Total capacity: 100, 240 with marquee

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 40

Dog-friendly: Yes, in cottages

Boconnion

Nestled within 150 acres of rolling fields and ancient woodland on the edge of Bodmin Moor, Boconnion offers privacy and picturesque surrounds together with romance and atmosphere in abundance. Flanked by acres of lawns and traditional outbuildings, the recently refurbished Georgian manor house and rustic Barton farmhouse stand at its heart, offering luxe yet laidback accommodation for 36. A perfect retreat for an extended celebration, throw the party of your life in a marquee on the lawn and spend the rest of your stay exploring the grounds, working up a sweat on the tennis court, lounging by the heated swimming pool and sinking into the Swedish woodfired hot tub beneath the stars with your nearest and dearest. boconnion.co.uk

Total capacity: 90 for sit-down meal, 250 for reception and ceremony

Civil ceremonies licence: No - celebrant or church ceremonies available

Guest accommodation: For 36 in 17 bedrooms

Dog-friendly: Yes

Tim Charles Photography

Blossoming Exposures

Tom Durn Photography

Pencarrow

Pencarrow is the beautiful Georgian home of the Molesworth-St Aubyn family. Lying at the foot of a sweeping valley, the venue offers everything from intimate weddings to grand affairs for 250+ guests. Ceremonies can take place in the historic house or one of the licensed outdoor spaces, the wisteria-clad arbour on the lawn being a firm favourite. A purpose-built seasonal marquee in the walled gardens, staffed wedding bar and children’s entertainment all on hand as well as lots of optional add-ons, the venue delivers a truly unique and charming wedding experience, combining the beautiful traditional backdrop of Pencarrow House with a versatile contemporary venue. You and your guests can stay in a yurt, bell tent or shepherd’s hut and wake to a breakfast hamper delivered with an optional Bloody Mary or glass of Prosecco alongside a cooked breakfast.

weddingsatpencarrow.com

Total capacity: 250+

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 2 yurts, pod, 2 shepherd’s huts, bell tents (no capacity)

Dog-friendly: Yes, except in house

Caerhays

Rich in romance and natural beauty, the dreamlike Caerhays

Estate sits in a secluded Cornish cove, hugged by acres of beautiful woodland gardens. Perched on a headland with far-reaching views out to sea, the Coastguards Lookout makes an intimate and magical setting to take your vows, while Beach Meadow, perched just above the sands, and Castle Field, located beneath Caerhays Castle, offer dreamy backdrops for a marquee reception with coastal and castle views. Then there’s The Vean, a private and elegant country house, which makes a luxurious retreat to stay for the duration of the celebrations. caerhays.co.uk

Total capacity: Beach Meadow 250 Castle Field 250 Coastguards Lookout 20 inside

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 20

Dog-friendly: Yes on leads (please ask in advance)

Carwinion House

Located in a tucked-away spot in Mawnan Smith on Cornwall’s south coast, Carwinion House offers a dream blend of stunning gardens and a country house setting. Enjoy the peace and privacy of this exclusive-use venue, where you can take your vows in the charming 18th century house or amidst the flower-filled gardens. A beautiful Raj tent in the walled garden makes a breathtaking canvas for a personality-packed reception, overlooking a carnival of wildflowers, lakes and mature trees beyond. Complete with accommodation for up to six in the heart of the gardens, prepare to fall in love with this captivating country idyll. carwinionhouse.co.uk

Total capacity: 80

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 6

Dog-friendly: No

Mark Shaw Photography

Katie Goff Photography

VENUES GUIDE:

WOW FACTOR

We’ve rounded up some of Cornwall’s most incredible settings for a standout celebration

Eden Project

The Eden Project offers the balmy temperatures and vibrant atmosphere of a destination wedding – without having to leave Cornwall! Take your vows amidst the scents and colours of the Mediterranean Biome or the lush foliage of the Rainforest Biome. Hold an after-dark reception in the Mediterranean Biome and make merry beneath the illusion of a starry night sky. There’s also The Gallery, which offers panoramic views of the biomes and space for a whopping 500 people, with the Kitchen building having space for 1,000 at a drinks reception! With sustainability at the heart of the venue’s ethos, your carefully sourced feast might be served with exclusive Eden Project wine. Guests can be transported by a decorated land train and those keen to make a showstopping arrival can abseil into the biome or fly down the SkyWire! edenproject.com

Total capacity: 1,000

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 58 bedrooms

Dog-friendly: Couple’s dog welcome for ceremony and reception only

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Beautiful, unique and enchanting, The Lost Gardens of Heligan offers an extraordinarily romantic setting for your wedding, whichever season you choose to marry in. Located close to Cornwall’s south coast, the awardwinning 200-acre site is an earthly paradise where bamboo meets majestic tree ferns, meandering pathways weave through camellias and rhododendrons, the historical walled gardens, lamb-filled paddocks and the sound of birdsong. Hosting intimate ceremonies and receptions for up to 60 guests in a choice of indoor and outdoor event spaces, your wedding day can play out in the most beautiful of settings. What’s more, with approximately 85% of the produce used in Heligan’s menus sourced directly from the estate, you’re assured a feast of fresh, seasonal ingredients with a minimal carbon footprint.

heligan.com

Total capacity: 60 daytime, 90 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: No, but plentiful accommodation nearby

Dog-friendly: Yes

Nick Walker Photography

Photography: Chris Goodman, Brian Robinson

Cornish Tipi Weddings

Dreaming of a wildly romantic wedding? Prepare to find it at Cornish Tipi Weddings, a secret glade of ancient woodland with carpets of wild flowers and a glorious lake at its heart. A dream canvas for a relaxed, backto-nature wedding, take your vows to the sound of birdsong in the pavilion, crafted from willow and canvas, or opt for a blessing next to the lake. Throw the ultimate festival wedding in the marquee meadow, which can be styled according to your vision, whether it’s pared-back pretty or full-blown boho. And sprinkle the celebrations with the romance of rowing across the lake, gathering round the firepit for marshmallows and stargazing, and, of course, spending your wedding night in a tipi! cornishtipiweddings.co.uk

Total capacity: 300

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 300

Dog-friendly: Couple’s dog welcome for ceremony and photos only

Heartlands

Set in the heart of Cornwall’s atmospheric mining landscape, Heartlands offers an eclectic combination of celebration spaces and facilities for a wedding rich in Cornish history, culture and romance. Tailoring packages to all styles and scales of wedding, you might exchange vows in the light-filled Great Hall in the Chi an Bobel building (its low carbon footprint makes it a savvy choice for a sustainable celebration), the versatile Red River bar and conservatory, or the iconic Engine House. Roam the 19 acres of landscaped park and gardens dotted with sculptures and let young guests burn off some energy in the giant adventure playscape before gathering for a feast to remember in this quintessentially Cornish setting. heartlandscornwall.com

Total capacity: 200 ceremony, 300 reception

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: No

Dog-friendly: Yes

The Alverton

There’s much to wow at The Alverton, an elegant hotel nestled in the heart of Truro, but the Great Hall must be its most breathtaking feature. Dating back to 1830, the spectacular vaulted ceiling, balcony and marble staging make it a grand and incredibly romantic backdrop for ceremonies and receptions for up to 140 guests with an exquisite bespoke menu by the hotel’s talented two AA Rosette chefs to match. Flanked by gardens and terraces, there are gorgeous outdoor spaces galore, and a choice of more intimate settings for ceremonies. The bedrooms, meanwhile, are the epitome of luxury with their brand of sumptuous styling, original features and modern touches. Spend your wedding night in stately style in the Bishop Suite with its lavish super-king bed and double roll-top bathtubs. thealverton.co.uk

Total capacity: 150 ceremony, 180 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 110

Dog-friendly: Yes

appleB Images

Debs Alexander Photography

appleB Images

VENUES GUIDE:

SMALL & INTIMATE

Dreaming of stealing away for a small wedding in a beautiful corner of Cornwall? These gorgeous spots specialise in intimate weddings

Charlestown Harbour

Located on the picturesque south coast, this small, privately owned Grade II listed Georgian harbour is one of Cornwall’s most iconic locations and offers romance and character in spine-tingling abundance. Steeped in maritime history and home to a fleet of striking classic tall ships, couples can marry in the intimate climes of The Round House, which can be found at the end of the east side of the harbour, offering sweeping views across St Austell Bay. Built in the late 1800s, the atmospheric space can host ceremonies with up to eight guests in attendance, while larger receptions can take place in the heart of the inner harbour on board the tall ship, Kajsamoor. Create a tailored package to suit your requirements, from a drinks reception on the open deck space to a three-course meal for up to 32 seated guests (or 50 standing) provided by popular local restaurant, The Longstore. charlestownharbour.com

Total capacity: 30 in Round House, more for harbour reception

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: Available on classic ships, capacity dependent on time of year and vessel Dog-friendly: Yes, but not on ships

St Nectan’s Glen

As well as being an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this utterly enchanting corner of north Cornwall is thought to be one of the UK’s most spiritual sites. The otherworldly beauty of St Nectan’s Glen is undeniable, from the magnificent 60-foot waterfall cascading into an idyllic valley to the acres of ancient woodland where ivy-clad trees line the banks of the River Trevillet. Secluded, tranquil and truly away-from-it-all, this hidden Cornish valley is a dreamlike setting for a wedding immersed in nature. With the focus very much on each couple’s individual vision for their day, the friendly and flexible team will help you to design the celebration of your wildly beautiful dreams, whether you choose a hand fasting, an elopement or intimate ceremony. st-nectansglen.co.uk

Total capacity: 20

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 15

Dog-friendly: Yes

Treseren

Described as a ‘homestead under the stars’, Treseren sits in a secluded countryside setting, just 10 minutes from the north coast. A stylish retreat where Georgian character and Austenesque romance is woven with modern accents, Shepherds House is flanked by two-and-a-half acres of greenery, with winding paths leading to secret flower-filled gardens. Specialising in small weddings with accommodation for 12, choose from a romantic ceremony in the Wedding Room or a candlelit winter elopement in the Drawing Room. There’s also the oh-so dreamy option of garden vows beneath a moon gate festooned with blooms followed with lawn games, feasting and cosying up around the firepit as the sun slips behind the leafy horizon. treseren.co.uk

Total capacity: 22

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 12

Dog-friendly: Yes

The Park Cornwall

Located within pebble-hurling distance of Mawgan Porth beach, this five-star holiday park offers an eclectic choice of settings for an intimate wedding, wrapped up in the drama of the north Cornish coast. Exchange vows in the magical yurt village, the coolly styled restaurant, The Kitchen on the Beach, or in an eco lodge with breathtaking balcony views. After the vows, enjoy a loved-up stroll across the sands, before returning for delicious food fresh from the clay oven and stargazing around the firepit. Make a holiday of it and enjoy a memorable few days savouring this family-friendly and dogfriendly haven; there’s an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tubs, play areas, resident goats and chickens, and sprawling coastal beauty on the doorstep.

theparkcornwall.com

Total capacity: 50

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 18 lodges, 13 cottages, 2 cabins, 4 caravans, 2 yurts, 1 house

Dog-friendly: Yes

Toby Lowe Photography

Joe Burford Photography

VENUES GUIDE:

MARQUEES & TIPIS

Dreaming of a so-you wedding under canvas? Be inspired by these fabulous outdoor wedding specialists

Absolute Canvas

Absolute Canvas is a family-run marquee hire company based in Cornwall with over 30 years of experience. Absolute Canvas offers a range of beautiful marquees, from elegant beautiful traditional canvas, to stunning clear span marquees. Each marquee is a blank canvas and can be styled to your individual taste; from rustic English fete, to your lavish modern finish. The team pride themselves on their attentive and personal approach to your planning and can be involved as little or as much as you would like. They are on hand to offer advice, chat and discuss your vision. They understand that this is the biggest day of your life and love nothing more than to take your big ideas and make them happen. absolutecanvas.co.uk

Skybar Weddings

Seeking a wow-worthy space to stage your celebrations? Skybar Weddings’ collection of top-of-the-range stretch marquees will suit weddings of any size and style. Couples can hire a range of lighting, flooring and furnishings such as tables, chairs and Chesterfield sofas, along with a bespoke bar (with setup and service), plus various staging, sound and entertainment options too. The company even offers stylish wedding transportation in the form of a Land Rover. From finding the perfect party spot to the full hire and styling package, look forward to a brilliantly personalised service from this highly experience team of event organisersand a marquee wedding to remember. skybarweddings.com

Freckle Photography

Taylor & Porter

Kirstin Prisk Photography

A marquee is a blank canvas

At Absolute Canvas we can offer a range of beautiful marquees; from elegant traditional, to stunning clear span marquees.

Each marquee is a blank canvas, and can be styled to your individual taste; from rustic English fete style, to your lavish modern finish.

www.absolutecanvas.co.uk

Sunset Tipis

Sunset Tipis brings the wow factor in spades with their giant big hat kata tipis as well as their own locations for hire spanning spots with coastal, valley and countryside views, including the iconic St Agnes Beacon. Roll up the sides and savour the Cornish views and warm sunshine or take them down to create a snug and cosy vibe by the fire, the exposed poles woven with fairy lights adding to the magic. Every element of your tipi wedding can be looked after by the team. sunsettipis.com

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR VENUE

Before you fall for the first venue you visit, get clued up on the essential questions

Choosing your wedding venue is a huge decision, and one from which many of your other decisions will follow. It’s oh-so easy to set your heart on the first country pile you visit but, before you make a decision, consider these key questions from wedding planner, Jenny Granlund of Jenny Wren Weddings & Events (jennywrens.com).

Then go ahead and make that all-important booking – safe in the knowledge that you’re prepped on the party-planning essentials.

• What is the capacity for a ceremony and reception?

• Does the venue have a ceremony licence?

• What ceremony locations are there, both inside and outside?

• Is the venue exclusive use?

• What is their availability like?

• What is included in the price?

• Look at the rooms and discuss whether room turnarounds will need to take place (for example, if the dinner is in the same room as the ceremony). If so, who will take care of this?

Tipi Spaces

Tipi Spaces’ ivory white canvas Nordic tipis provide a versatile and truly enchanting blank canvas. Manufactured in Sweden, each tipi is designed to offer maximum durability and protection from the elements to give a fabulously flexible solution for any setting or style of event. Their striking structure ensures a wow-worthy centrepiece, while inside, the conical shape sculpts a more intimate space for your celebrations. And, boasting almost 50 years combined experience of project and luxury event management, the team is enthusiastically primed to achieve your vision by attending to all the details. tipispaces.co.uk

• Are there any break-out rooms away from the party for older guests or babies?

• Will there be a wedding coordinator on-site on the wedding day? What will they be taking care of?

• Is furniture provided?

• Is tableware provided?

• Can you bring in your own suppliers and catering company?

• Are toilets provided?

• What time do the licenses for music and alcohol run until?

• Are there restrictions concerning music?

• Is there the option to provide your own alcohol? Do they charge corkage?

• What day and time can you have access from?

• Is there accommodation on-site or close by?

• Do they allow fireworks?

• Do they allow confetti?

• Do they allow firepits?

• Are there dos and don’ts concerning decoration?

• What time does the hire end?

• Who does the clean up afterwards?

• Who takes away the recycling and rubbish?

Venetia Norrington Photography

Venetia Norrington Photography

Venetia Norrington Photography

PhotoCredit:EmmaStoner

SO NEAR, SO FAR

words Hannah May & Rebecca Matthews

Honeymoons are joining the modern wedding movement of ‘anything goes’, with couples enjoying everything from ‘earlymoons’ to ‘minimoons’ and full-blown family holidays. And nowhere is more accommodating for all your pre and postwed whims than Cornwall.

Beyond beautiful-destinations located both on the coast and in the countryside allow couples to experience the natural landscapes the Duchy has to offer. Stay in a shepherd’s hut on Bodmin Moor, escape to a cliff-edge suite on The Lizard

or bed down in a Georgian townhouse a stone’s throw from the sea.

Whether you dream of lingering for a few days in your newly-wed bliss or heading to another part of the county for an adventure with the whole family, there’s a host of unforgettable options to suit.

We’ve picked three impossibly romantic places guaranteed to have you falling in love over and over again...

Spend your cherished first days as newlyweds here in Cornwall

Chapel House

Make your way along Chapel Street, a historic and charm-packed stretch of antique shops, restaurants, boutiques and galleries in the heart of Penzance, and, perched above the harbour, you’ll find Chapel House. A grand red brick building facing out towards the sea, the restored Georgian townhouse blends the style of a chic boutique hotel with a relaxed home-from-home feel, making it a perfect base for a loved-up few days exploring the beauty of Cornwall’s far western tip.

Bathed with natural light, the elegant Georgian architecture is beautifully balanced with contemporary touches: antique furnishings meet bold, statement pieces and vibrant accents, while the milk-white walls are dotted with Cornish art. Our room was light and spacious, the windows filled with sweeping views across the ancient quayside and blue sweep of Mount’s Bay. There was an unfeasibly snug bed, a luxurious bathroom, a log burner and sink-into-me bathtub where you can gaze at the seagulls nesting on the chimney pots and wispy clouds slipping across the sky as you bathe.

Heading outside into the sheltered garden, my husband and I relaxed in the sauna and enjoyed a soak in the hot tub. Sinking into the warm bubbles amidst the call of the seabirds, the fresh, salty air and the glow of the harbour lights in the inky-blue dusk was magical. After dinner at a nearby restaurant, we curled up by the fire in the lounge with a bottle of red wine and, after a wonderfully deep sleep, woke to a delicious breakfast.

For those keen to recharge and rebalance, Chapel House can arrange guided swims in the bay, while the resident holistic therapist, Rachel Lorente, tailors a selection of wellbeing treatments to your needs through aromatherapy, massage, reflexology and bespoke spa rituals.

It’s easy to while away a dreamy few days exploring the delights on the hotel’s doorstep: take a stroll along the promenade, visit the art galleries and local eateries, relax in the subtropical gardens and enjoy a drink at one of the town’s atmospheric pubs or gin bars. Located a matter of footsteps from Chapel House, a dip in the geothermal waters of Jubilee Pool, the UK’s largest art deco sea water lido, is a must.

Brilliantly located for exploring the north and south coast of Cornwall’s westerly peninsula, take a walk along the coastal path to discover some of the county’s most staggeringly beautiful vistas or head to one of the many sandy beaches before returning to the serene climes of this seaside sanctuary.

chapelhousepz.co.uk

For a serene sojourn by the sea…

Danny Armstrong Photography

For cosy countryside capers… The Enchanted Wardrobe

If the place names are anything to go by, then this micro-utopia on the edge of Bodmin Moor certainly lives up to it. For in the diminutive Welltown lies a hidden cluster of shepherd’s huts that promise a back-to-nature escape of the most magical variety. In fact, Welltown can be found in the tiny hamlet of Warleggan, which was previously known as the most remote village in Cornwall and is twinned with none other than Narnia… Which brings us back to The Enchanted Wardrobe.

If it’s a sense of remoteness and a heady dose of magic that you seek, then you’ll discover it here in spades. Conveniently close to Cornwall’s major A30 road but far enough removed to feel fabulously lost amongst the beating heart of the Cornish countryside, The Enchanted Wardrobe is sublimely located. For your own private slice of peace and soul-stirring rural views, nothing spells pure romance quite like it.

We arrived shortly after dark, following the snaking gravel path toward the fairy lights that festoon the exterior before entering the deceptively spacious hut, and instantly felt at home. The kids were soon fast asleep in their bunks and the dog nestled in front of the fire, so we slipped outside and sunk into the hot tub, floating beneath the trees while stargazing into the bejewelled night sky to a soundtrack of complete silence.

A golden sunrise greeted us the next morning as we breakfasted in the bijou dining area at our leisure. The hut is fully equipped with everything you’ll need, from the private parking, garden furniture and firepit to a kitchenette complete with oven with integrated microwave, two-ring hob, full-sized fridge and ceramic butler’s sink. There’s also a snug en suite and wood burner, so you’ll feel warm, comfy and fully taken care of whatever the season of your stay.

The owners kept a respectful distance but were helpfully on hand, even allowing our daughters to meet their newborn lambs. We then ventured to the nearby natural wonders of Colliford Lake, the sprawling moor and Cardinham Woods before a quick stop-off in the old market town of Bodmin. Returning in time for an exquisite sunset over the wooded valley, we snuggled up for story time and slumbered in the most sumptuous kingsized bed as the river quietly babbled beyond.

For child and dog-friendly accommodation amid spectacularly wild surrounds – with an array of luxe extras – The Enchanted Wardrobe is a spellbinding choice.

uniquehideaways.com

For edge-of-the-world clifftop stays…

The Island Suite at Polurrian on the Lizard

Perched on the cliff-edge presiding over swathes of ocean, Polurrian on the Lizard’s new private bolthole, The Island Suite, was – quite literally – made for honeymoons.

The recently completed addition to the coastal hotel provides a gorgeous retreat filled with amenities, space and those to-die-for sea views. Concealed beneath the main building down a private spiral staircase, the exclusive suite boasts a beautiful master bedroom opening onto to its own sea-view deck, along with an additional two bedrooms (featuring bunk beds and twin beds), bathroom with walk-in rainfall shower, fitted kitchenette and private balcony with a hot tub gazing directly out to sea.

The interiors are understated yet stylish. Wonderfully comfortable, the sink-into-me bed, plush tub chairs and sun loungers located just outside the bedroom mean a stay here promises to be a laidback, luxe and memorable affair indeed.

An air of vintage glamour permeates Polurrian on the Lizard, which has hosted famous guests including Clark Gable and Guglielmo Marconi and still retains much of its old-world charm alongside modern, relaxed and characterful surrounds. The hotel accommodates all, presenting cosy nooks for sundowners as well as playrooms for the kids. There’s also an outdoor pool, tennis courts and mini play park, along with a Health Club complete with an indoor pool, hot tub, gym, relaxation room and treatment rooms.

The stunning restaurant presents simple yet delectable dishes with a Mediterranean-inspired flavour using locally sourced ingredients and cooked using their wood-fired Gozney oven. We devoured three lip-smacking courses washed down with a smooth bottle of red, sleeping blissfully before waking to the melody of the waves below.

Lush, landscaped gardens with panoramic views descend toward the coast path that will lead you directly onto the sands of Polurrian Cove nestled beneath the hotel. Or if you’d like to venture further afield, we loved hitting the road with the hotel’s fun and brand new ‘No Smoke Moke’, which will take you for electric-fired adventures to the nearby likes of Lizard Point, Poldhu, Mullion and Kennack Sands. In short, whether you wish to loaf or live it up on the Lizard – just the two of you or the entire family (including the dog) – Polurrian is the picturesque place to be.

polurrianhotel.com

Adj Brown Photography

Adj Brown Photography

Adj Brown Photography

Adj Brown Photography

Adj Brown Photography

Praise has been heaped upon The Abbey for local seasonal menus, cooked with real passion which you can enjoy in a relaxed informal

Johanna Graham Quartet

Accessories

Tiaras and Vines 07581 414920 tiarasandvines.co.uk

Beauty

KH Bridal 07748 847055 khbridal.com

Bridal wear

Bliss Bridal Gowns 01637 851163 blissbridalgowns.com

Bridal Gossip 07476 786731 bridalgossip.co.uk

Coastal Bridal 07476 099959 coastalbridal.co.uk

Frocks & Frills 01326 341276 frocksfrills.co.uk

St Ives Bridal Boutique 01736 799413 stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

Catering, cakes & bars

Absolute Chocolate 01872 540650 absolutechocolatefountains.co.uk

Beautiful and the Feast beautifulandthefeast.com

Beetham Food 01872 501002 beethamfood.co.uk

Crafty Cakehole 07948 206639 craftycakehole.co.uk

Good Food Catering Company 01840 211118 thegoodfoodcateringco.co.uk

Kernowforno 07824 325633 kernowforno.co.uk

Partington’s Bar Company 07896 573907 partingtonsbarcompany.co.uk

Peboryon 07807 153091 peboryon.com

The Buffalo 07931 266900 thebuffalo.co.uk

Celebrants

Cornish Celebrants 07716 992526 cornishcelebrants.co.uk

Fiona Solomon 07527 081872 fionasolomoncelebrant.com

Perfect Day Ceremonies 07977 561450 perfectdayceremonies.co.uk

Childcare

Cornwall Childcare 07592 676259 cornwallchildcare.com

Décor

Out of the Ordinary Event Hire 01209 203291 outoftheordinaryeventhire.com

Stargazey Wedding Décor Hire 07881 863338 stargazeyweddingdecorhire.co.uk

Trevarno Marquees and Event Hire 01209 831333 trevarnomarquees.co.uk

Entertainment

Classical Strings 01736 719342 classicalstrings.co.uk

Fistral Stereo 07808 588705 fistralstereo.com

The Great Little Band 07812 930004 thegreatlittleband.co.uk

Fireworks

Celebration Pyrotechnics 01208 78790 / 07814 014233 celebrationpyro.com

Sonic Fireworks 01884 849222 sonicfireworks.co.uk

Flowers

Fleurtations 01208 78555 fleurtationscornwall.com

George Mackay Flowers 07852 405311 georgemackayflowers.com

The Velvet Daisy 077906 92221 thevelvetdaisy.co.uk

Marquees

Absolute Canvas 01326 375747 absolutecanvas.co.uk

Skybar Weddings skybarweddings.com

Sunset Tipis sunsettipis.com

Tipi Spaces 01884 277306 tipispaces.co.uk

Trevarno Marquees & Event Hire 01209 831333 trevarnomarquees.co.uk

Menswear

Cornwall Suit Room 01209 613366 cornwallsuitroom.com

Photography

Alan Law Photography 07594 847422 alanlawphotography.co.uk

Hannah Wilde Photography 07508 596322 hannah-wilde.com

I Do Film + Photos 07535 440807 idofilmandphotos.co.uk

Joey Lamb Photography 07470 331337 joeylambphotography.com

Nick Bailey Photography 07816 251838 photobailey.com

Olivia WR Fine Art Photography 07470 056050 oliviawhitbread-roberts.com

Ross Talling Photography 07525 781128 rosstalling.co.uk

Stewart Girvan Photography 01209 480699 stewartgirvan.co.uk

Thomas Frost Photography 07584 906088 thomasfrostphotography.com

Toby Lowe Photography 07800 805081 tobylowephotography.co.uk

Verity Westcott Photography 07412 364197 veritywestcottphotography.com

Rings & jewellery

Drakes 01752 227775 drakesjewellers.co.uk

Emily Nixon 01736 887599 emilynixon.com

Found Treasure foundtreasurejewellery.com

Justin Duance 01736 368395 justind.co.uk

Michael Spiers 01872 272264 michaelspiers.co.uk

Stephanie Stevens 07817 239895 stephaniestevensjewellery.co.uk

Transport

Honeybugs Cornwall 07981 166098 honeybugscornwall.co.uk

Venues

Above the Bay abovethebay.co.uk

Atlantic Hotel 01637 872244 atlantichotelnewquay.co.uk

Beacon Crag 07815 311291 beaconcrag.com

Boconnion 01208 220488 boconnion.co.uk

Boconnoc 01208 872507 boconnoc.com

Caerhays 01872 501310 caerhays.co.uk

Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate 01736 795311 carbisbayhotel.co.uk

Carwinion House 01326 653212 carwinionhouse.co.uk

Charlestown Harbour 01726 70241 charlestownharbour.com

Cornish Tipi Weddings 01208 880781 cornishtipiweddings.co.uk

The Driftwood Spars 01872 552428 driftwoodspars.com

Eden Project 01726 811911 edenproject.com

Fowey Hall Hotel 01726 833866 foweyhallhotel.co.uk

The Gannet 01736 795651 gannetstives.co.uk

The Godolphin 01736 888510 godolphin.com

The Green 01579 362253 thegreencornwall.co.uk

Gwel an Mor 01209 842354 gwelanmor.com

Heartlands 01209 722325 heartlandscornwall.com

Hustyns Resort Cornwall 01208 893700 hustyns.co.uk

Knightor 01726 851101 knightor.com

Land’s End Hotel 01736 871844 landsendhotel.co.uk

Llawnroc Hotel 01726 843461 thellawnrochotel.co.uk

The Lost Gardens of Heligan 01726 845100 heligan.com

Lower Bussow Farm lowerbussowfarm.co.uk

Lusty Glaze 01637 872444 lustyglaze.co.uk

Nancarrow Farm 01872 540343 nancarrowfarm.co.uk

The Old Quay House Hotel 01726 833302 theoldquayhouse.com

The Park Cornwall 01637 860322 theparkcornwall.com

Pencarrow 01840 250118 weddingsatpencarrow.com

Pengenna Manor 01208 612221 pengennamanor.co.uk

Polhawn Fort 01752 822864 polhawnfort.com

Polurrian on the Lizard 01326 240421 polurrianhotel.com

The Rockpool 01736 449990 therockpoolbeachcafe.co.uk

The Rosevine 01872 580206 rosevine.co.uk

Scorrier House 01209 820264 scorrierhouse.co.uk

Stennack Farm stennackfarm.com

St Nectan’s Glen 01840 779538 st-nectansglenco.uk

St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa 01736 795221 stives-harbour-hotel.co.uk

The Barn at Pengelly 01872 229842 pengellyweddings.com

The Alverton 01872 276633 thealverton.co.uk

The Gate 01503 262159 thegatecornwall.com

The Greenbank 01326 312440 greenbank-hotel.co.uk

Tredudwell Manor 01726 870226 tredudwellmanor.co.uk

Tregedna Weddings 07979 645946 tregednaweddings.co.uk

Trenderway 01503 272214 trenderwayweddings.co.uk

Treseren 07808 581847 treseren.co.uk

Trevenna 01579 320013 trevennaweddings.co.uk

Wedding planners

Alexa Richardson at Situ Weddings situcafe.co.uk/weddings-events

Out of the Ordinary Weddings 07900 954051 outoftheordinaryweddings.com

Rebel & Anchor 07815 151010 rebelandanchor.co.uk

The Little Details by Sophie thelittledetailsbysophie.

got wed

“Seeing people laughing and having a wonderful time was incredible”

With black and gold detailing throughout their wedding, Amy and Sam had a beautiful blessing overlooking the sea in Watergate Bay

Striking Gold

Amy and Sam fell for each other while working on a resort, which led to a beautiful proposal in the couple’s favourite place: Tresco on the Isles of Scilly. “We then decided to get officially married in Tresco and have our blessing and reception in Watergate Bay,” explains Amy.

The first wedding to take place at Lean’s Field, overlooking the dramatic north coast cliffscape, the couple planned an al fresco blessing ceremony and tipi reception styled with a glamorous palette of black and gold. “I have always loved black and gold, and the theme fit perfectly for our celebration. My dress was a light champagne gold and the wedding party wore black,” explains Amy, who finished her look with metallic heels and a stunning bouquet of dark blooms and golden foliage.

Every detail carried the striking colours, from the arrangements of flowers, foliage and pampas grass to the contemporary stationery and shimmering tableware. Even the showstopping tower of macarons were finished with gold accents.

“I asked the best man to go down the aisle in a wedding dress with my father first, to surprise Sam and the entire wedding party,” she laughs. “It was a hilarious moment with so much laughter and many smiles. The best man then got changed and we reset for my entrance.”

After the blessing, saxophonist Daniel Costin provided the soundtrack while guests mingled and enjoyed the entertainment. “We had a volleyball court set up and had electric skateboards that all the guests played on (and many fell off!),” says Amy. “It was a great laugh.”

Guests were similarly captivated by the barbecue feast featuring Wagyu beef burgers, halloumi burgers, wild boar hot dogs, Greek chicken skewers, sticky Jack Daniel’s wings and salads, while Domino’s pizzas were delivered in the evening to ensure everyone was fuelled for the dance floor. With a photo booth, firepits and live music from The John Adams Band, guests were treated to nonstop entertainment before fireworks lit up the sky over the sea.

In a day filled with happy memories, Amy finds it difficult to pinpoint her favourite moment. “I loved being with my favourite people,” she smiles. “It was incredible to see people laughing and having a wonderful time and then, looking back at the pictures, you feel it all over again.”

And while it might be common advice, Amy is adamant on the one thing couples should avoid when planning a wedding. “Most people say it, but do not sweat the small stuff!” she affirms. “I was so worried about things like candles, covers for the hay bales, what products I wanted for the bar and the like. In the end it didn’t matter. Enjoy the planning as much as you can because it’s all over so quickly. Remember the day is about you and no one else, so make sure you enjoy it and choose things that you love,” she adds. “Oh, and sweets are a big hit!”

Photography Grant Lampard Photography grantlampardphotography.com

Venue Lean’s Field, Watergate Bay Planning, bar, catering & stationery Wax Watergate Bay waxwatergate.co.uk

Tipi Wild Tipi wildtipi.co.uk

Dress Riki Dalal rikidalal.co.uk

Groom’s outfit Moss Bros moss.co.uk

Hair Serendipity by Amanda Jane newquayhairandmakeup.co.uk

Make-up Emmie Green emmieemua.book.app

Flowers Home Nansledan homenansledan.co.uk

Tipi décor & styling Emily Rose Events Hire instagram.com/emilyroseeventshire

Macarons Polly Webb Cakes pollywebbcakes.co.uk

Entertainment The John Adams Band johnadamsmusic.co.uk

Daniel Costin danielcostin.live

Photo booth Cornwall Entertainment cornwallentertainment.co.uk

Videography I Do Film + Photos idofilmandphotos.co.uk

Amy and Sam’s clifftop wedding was a golden affair of laughter, flavoursome food and crowdpleasing entertainment

On Top of the World

Lauren and Luke celebrated their love for Cornwall, autumn and each other in the dream setting of Tredudwell Manor

After meeting through mutual friends, Lauren and Luke connected again some years later for a “catch up and definitely not a date… and quickly fell head over heels”, says Lauren. And when Luke’s planned proposal – at the LA Observatory at sunset – was thwarted by lockdown, he turned the living room into LA, replete with candles, an LA Observatory image and the La La Land soundtrack playing in the background.

The couple’s venue search led them to Tredudwell Manor. “It was a beautiful blank canvas with so much charm, which made it easy to bring our vision to life,” explains Lauren. The couple chose to marry in autumn – their favourite time of year – and blended autumnal and coastal elements to create a stunning seasonal scene. “The flowers, decorations and outfits had autumnal colours woven throughout, and the decorations were made up of dried lavender from summer, old books, rustic wood slices and candles that smelt like the sea,” she says.

Finished with a flower crown, Lauren was the picture of whimsical romance in her dress with its floaty sleeves, detailed embroidery and long detachable train, while her bridesmaids chose dresses they loved in a striking palette of shades.

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed local Fowey cider while the newlyweds headed to nearby Lantivet Bay for photographs on the clifftops. “It was so nice to be able to enjoy a little pocket of time just the two of us, married at last, looking out over the sea, brimming with all the joy in the world and just taking it all in,” reminisces Lauren.

The wedding feast was one to remember: starters of pan-roasted Looe scallops, baked camembert, chorizo, and rosemary breads were followed by roasted duck and pan-roasted salmon, butternut squash and wild mushroom risotto, and a trio of mouth-watering desserts. Meanwhile, a cake of locally sourced cheeses was surrounded by a stunning display of charcuterie.

As day turned to night, the party atmosphere kicked up a notch. “Everyone was offered a traditional Cornish cocktail, the band started playing and it was party time,” says Lauren. “We danced our socks off to a mix of pop, rock, emo and country before heading to bed at 1a.m.!”

Looking back, Lauren has some sage advice. “Your day will not be perfect and that’s OK. Even after two years of planning, there were still elements that were out of our control. Rain clouds appeared at the last minute so we had to move the ceremony inside. But with the doors thrown open, we were able to keep the feeling of still being outdoors, and when the clouds cleared, everyone was able to enjoy the stunning grounds and breathtaking views,” she says.

“It was the best day ever, because we got to marry each other surrounded by everyone we love the most – that was what was most important. Everything else is just details.” And the icing on the wedding cake? “We didn’t know, but I was actually pregnant at the wedding, which makes the day even more magical.”

Photography Dan Ward Photography danward.co.uk

Venue Tredudwell Manor tredudwell.co.uk

Dress Rosa Clara from Morgan Davies Bridal morgandaviesbridal.co.uk

Groom’s outfit Marc Darcy marcdarcy.co.uk

Hair & make-up Emilie’s Professional Hair and Makeup emilieshairandmakeup.co.uk

Flowers The Garden Gate Flower Company thegardengateflowercompany.co.uk

Dried and Tied Flowers etsy.com/uk/shop/DriedandTiedBouquets

Catering Richard Mcgeown instagram.com/richardmcgeown

Cheese cake, charcuterie board & evening catering

The Ship Inn Lerryn theshipinnlerryn.co.uk

Stationery & signage Butland Wedding Stationery instagram.com/butlandweddingstationery

Entertainment The John Adams Band johnadamsmusic.co.uk Bespoke Disco bespokedisco.com

Photo booth Flicksbox flicksbox.co.uk

Videography Sean White Films seanwhiteweddingfilms.co.uk

“It was so nice to be looking out over the sea, brimming with all the joy in the world”

Lauren and Luke styled their day with warm autumnal colours and nods to the coastal setting of Tredudwell Manor

got wed

Simply the Best

From showstopping flowers to fireworks, Ally and Amo threw the weekend wedding of their dreams at The Headland

Working together in the toy department of Harrods, Ally and Amo spent a year as “definitely just friends” going on “definitely not dates” before they got together.

A romantic rainy walk on Crantock Beach was the setting for Amo’s “shock” proposal to Ally. “We stood at the top of the sand dunes looking out to sea and, for a brief moment, the rain stopped, the sun broke through the clouds and I turned to see Amo down on one knee!” says Ally.

Hiring The Headland in Newquay exclusively for 200 guests for a weekend of celebrations, the couple opted for a jewel-toned palette of ruby, emerald and amethyst, which was carried in breathtaking style by the dramatic floral displays.

The festivities started on the Friday evening with a champagne afternoon tea, barbecue feast and cocktails on the terrace with a jazz band, before moving inside to casino tables and dessert stations after sunset. And that was just night one!

The next morning Ally and Amo had breakfast and a sea swim with friends, before getting ready for their ceremony. Flanked by bridesmaids in emerald green, Ally wore a Sassi Holford ballgown and Jimmy Choo heels embellished with pearls, while Amo donned a bespoke blue paisley suit.

“We both agree that our favourite moment was seeing each other as I walked down the aisle,” says Ally. “We were so overwhelmed by all the love we could feel from a room full of our friends and family, but the second we saw each other everything faded into the background.”

Champagne and canapés followed, with their loved ones waiting on the lawn with confetti while Ally and Amo were taken to see the dining room set-up. “We were completely blown away by the stunning displays, the beautiful light pouring in and the smell of roses,” she says. “We walked through the room completely speechless and soaked up a moment of peace.”

After photos, the newlyweds were welcomed back to the celebrations for speeches and a feast comprising antipasti platters, chicken milanese, Cornish fillet steak, wild line-caught sea bass, chocolate brownie with meringue, and berries and pavlova.

Performed by a friend, the first dance to Simply the Best ended with a special moment for the couple. “My parents and sisters surprised us with the most incredible fireworks display we’ve ever seen!” says Ally. “We were called outside to do sparklers, and that’s when the fireworks started with the backdrop of the sea and Fistral Beach. We had absolutely no idea this was about to happen and watched in complete awe. I burst into tears the second they finished – all the emotion of the day caught up with me!”

As the evening continued, and the guests danced the night away (until 5am!), they were treated to a buffet of Korean fried chicken, Cornish fish burgers, barbecue ribs, loaded potato skins and honey mustard sausages – as well as the wedding cake and a huge selection of freshly baked cookies!

“We truly had the most magical day from start to finish and felt so incredibly lucky to have each other and such wonderful people in our lives. Even though it was a large wedding, it still felt intimate,” says Ally, who has some advice for those planning their own weddings. “It can get overwhelming at times with a long to-do list, but trust that you’ll get it done and just enjoy the ride,” she says.

And Amo’s advice? “Whatever your future wife wants, say yes!”

“We were so overwhelmed by all the love we could feel from a room full of our friends and family”

Dramatic floral arrangements in a rich array of jewel tones were a stunning feature at Ally and Amo’s weekend wedding

Photography & videography Pura Vida Cornwall puravidacornwall.com

Venue The Headland headlandhotel.co.uk

Dresses Sassi Holford sassiholford.com ASOS asos.com

Shoes Jimmy Choo jimmychoo.com

Groom’s outfit Gresham Blake greshamblake.com

Groom’s shoes Dune dunelondon.com

Bridesmaids’ dresses Coast coastfashion.com

Cicinia cicinia.co.uk

Emma Jay Boutique

Hair Ro Hair rohair.co.uk

Amanda, Hair by Serendipity newquayhairandmakeup.co.uk

Flowers Home Nansledan homenansledan.co.uk

Make-up Georgina Yates georginayatesmakeupartist.com

By B Make Up and Beauty

Cake Ladyvale Bakery ladyvalebakery.co.uk

Stationery Alice Masters alicemastersart.com

The Cornish Print & Sign Company cornishprint.co.uk

Décor & tableware hire Home Nansledan homenansledan.co.uk

Alice Masters alicemastersart.com

Entertainment Ducie Jazz duciejazz.co.uk

Helen Nash helenclarenash.com Disco Shed discoshed.com

Disco Wed discowed.com

Casino Coleman’s Event Hire colemanseventhire.co.uk

Ocean’s Dream

Beach vibes and surfing brides made for a cool coastal celebration at Lusty Glaze for Jen and Vikki

A technology oversight led to Jen and Vikki’s first date, with Wales-based Vikki waiting for a flight at Birmingham Airport and forgetting to change her location settings on Tinder. She connected with Jen, who lived nearby, and thus began “18 months of driving up and down the country to see each other”, until Jen moved to South Wales.

The proposal made just as good a story. Jen had chosen the perfect spot on top of a mountain during a snowboarding trip in Italy. However, Vikki encountered problems with her boots and kept sinking in the snow. “I didn’t quite make it to the top and Jen proposed to me when I was mid-strop, waistdeep in snow,” says Vikki. “What a keeper.”

Choosing a wedding venue was an easy decision. “Early in our relationship, we walked past Lusty Glaze when visiting Newquay. There was a wedding happening down on the beach and we were blown away by the beauty of the cove,” says Vikki.

Jen’s design for her custom Vans was the starting point for the look and feel of the day. “The whole theme was centred around Jen’s trainers: green tropical leaf print and surfer vibes,” says Vikki, who adds that Jen’s mum designed the succulent favours in bespoke painted pots as well as all the table decorations inspired by the couple’s favourite beaches.

In classic Cornish style, the wedding day began with Jen and some of their guests having a morning surf. Then, amidst a carnival of fairy lights and gorgeous clusters of cream and sea-blue blooms, the couple met each other at the beachside venue for their ceremony. “My favourite moment was walking down the aisle with my dad and shaking at the altar until Vikki held my hands to reassure me,” reminisces Jen.

“We had Colleen from Cornish Celebrants lead us through the ceremony, which included all our guests singing Happy Together by The Turtles,” adds Vikki. “She made it so personal to us and we are really grateful for everything she did.”

After the vows, everyone made the most of the coastal location, spilling onto the sand for mojitos and canapés before a ‘surf and turf’ beach barbecue with steak and grilled prawns. An “amazing” cake made by Jen’s mum and auntie was complemented by cupcakes that featured their dog, surfboards and “Kev, our trusty camper”, which were enjoyed before photos on the beach – and in the sea!

“We loved dancing on the beach for wedding photos and looking back to see all our guests cheering us from the deck,” says Vikki, who reveals that one of the couple’s favourite wedding memories was all the dancing at various points throughout the day.

“The band, The Strutts, were awesome and had everyone up dancing even to the sound check,” she laughs. And when it came to the couple’s first dance, all their friends joined them for a flashmob!

“Later on, The Strutts played our first dance again just to see the flashmob once more.”

And the festivities didn’t end when the evening drew to a close, with the couple celebrating the next morning with a post-wedding surf with their photographer – featuring Vikki in her wedding dress!

When it comes to advice, Jen and Vikki have a top research tip. “Use Instagram to look at photographers and florists’ work to get a feel for who is right for you and share ideas of what you like,” says Jen.

“We loved dancing on the beach and looking back to see all our guests cheering us from the deck”

Jen and Vikki filled their wedding with details inspired by the sea, from surfboards to flowers in shades of cream and blue

Photography Sofie Michelle Photography sofiemichellephotography.co.uk

Venue Lusty Glaze lustyglaze.co.uk

Dress Willow in White Bridal Co. willowinwhite.com

Hair Mojito Hair Lounge mojitohairlounge.co.uk

Filip, Bluntts Barbershop blunttsbarbershop.gettimely.com

Trainers Vans vans.co.uk

Braces & bow tie Etsy etsy.com/uk

Celebrant Cornish Celebrants cornishcelebrants.co.uk

Flowers Twigs & Greens twigsandgreens.co.uk

Stationery Greenvelope greenvelope.com

Entertainment The Strutts thestruttsband.co.uk

Only Love

Hayley and Nathan married at Truro Cathedral - the setting of their engagementbefore celebrating in style at Scorrier House

Hayley and Nathan first laid eyes on each other at a Ben Howard concert in Gwithian. A very special proposal ensued on New Year’s Eve at Truro Cathedral after Nathan contacted the dean, who opened the beautiful building just for them for the momentous occasion.

“I had no idea,” confesses Hayley. “We walked around the cathedral and it was completely empty except for the lanterns, which were lit at the altar with the words ‘Marry me?’.”

The dean extended his generosity by organising for the couple to have special consideration to be married at the cathedral “after one cancelled date due to Covid and me finding out I was pregnant!” exclaims Hayley.

Falling for the elegant climes of Scorrier House for the reception, a beautiful palette of sage green and blush pink was incorporated in the day’s details, much of which was created and sourced by Hayley herself. Clusters of cream and pink roses hugged by clouds of gypsophila added to the timeless romance of the scene, as did the arrangements of roses, foliage and pampas grass adorning the dramatic staircase of the country house. The cake, meanwhile, was a dreamy confection of cream tiers decorated with posies of gypsophila.

Post-ceremony photos in the cathedral were followed by a confetti shower outside, which was one of Hayley’s favourite moments from the day. From there, everyone relocated to Scorrier House where they were greeted by the melodic tones of a harpist alongside canapés and welcome drinks in the glorious sunshine: the perfect start to the celebratory mood.

A sit-down meal treated guests to traditional savoyard tartiflette and a Tuscan-style barbecue grill including pork, spicy grilled jerk chicken and summer vegetable wellington with a smattering of sides such as Greek-style salad and orzo pasta.

The speeches and the cutting of the cake ensued, paving the way for the memorable first dance to Ben Howard’s Conrad. “This was the most emotional part of the day for me,” reveals Hayley of the poignant music that signified the start of their life together.

More dancing and drinking were enjoyed throughout the evening, which also included sparklers outside, leaving the newlyweds to revel in the memories fresh from the day and dispense some words of wisdom.

“Don’t worry about the small details,” urges Hayley, who encourages other couples to adopt a relaxed approach to the itinerary and allow events to unfold naturally on the day. “I think I overplanned and there were parts of the day that got forgotten because there were so many organic moments happening. I didn’t remember to throw the bouquet and missed playing the wedding game I had planned, but this didn’t impact on the day at all.”

Photography Olivia WR Fine Art Photography oliviawhitbread-roberts.com

Venue Truro Cathedral trurocathedral.org.uk

Scorrier House scorrierhouse.co.uk

Dress Willowby by Watters from The Bridal House of Cornwall thebridalhouseofcornwall.co.uk

Hair Sally Clemens, Trenowin Retreat instagram.com/trenowin_retreat

Make-up Carly Angove carlyangovemakeup.co.uk

Flowers Cornish Cutting Garden cornishcuttinggarden.co.uk

Catering Dish Cornwall dishcornwall.co.uk

Cake Sea View Kitchen instagram.com/seaview_kitchen

Entertainment Marie-France Riboulet harpmariefrance.co.uk

Lexi Dells facebook.com/lexidellsflute

Talking Bird Music talkingbirdmusic.net

Hayley and Nathan combined the grandeur of Truro Cathedral with the splendour of Scorrier House for their elegant wedding

“Our first dance was such an emotional part of the day”

got wed

Hearts on Fire

Having met through mutual friends, it was a pandemic proposal that led to Kate and Tom tying the knot. “It was actually plan version three!” says Kate. “What started as a beach proposal in Mauritius eventually turned into a clifftop proposal in Cornwall. It was a pretty windy day but Tom demanded we go for a walk at Watergate Bay, one of our favourite places. I said it was too windy but Tom forced me to carry on and got down on one knee right there on the cliff.”

When it came to choosing their venue, there was one thing on their minds. “Having drinks overlooking the sea in Cornwall was a non-negotiable for us,” says Kate of their decision to celebrate at Caerhays’ Beach Meadow, an idyllic south coast setting, after a ceremony in St Goran Church. Blending a “beachy coastal vibe with an English garden party”, the stunning styling saw a palette of pinks, reds and oranges carried in the flowers and bridesmaids’ dresses, while signage on whitewashed driftwood nodded to the coastal setting.

“In the church, we replaced a hymn with one of our friends leading a sing-a-long of Elton John’s Your Song,” says Kate of one of her favourite moments in the ceremony. “Everyone got so into the moment and we were so glad we did it.”

Guests were welcomed at their marquee reception with fizz, canapés and a mariachi band. “They were hilarious and had everyone dancing and singing along,” laughs Kate. The speeches were interspersed throughout a wedding breakfast comprising a picnic-style sharing starter of ham hock terrine, mackerel pâté, rarebit and local breads followed by slow-cooked lamb and “Cornish mess”: an Eton mess made with local Cornish cream and strawberries.

As well as a cake made by Kate’s mum cloaked in edible blooms, guests were treated to Mauritian rum in a nod to Kate’s heritage. “It really got the party started and made for quite a rowdy dinner, with everyone drinking rum at the tables!” she says. “We love skiing, so had shots of toffee vodka at the bar in homage to après-ski too!”

While live band, Ride the Fire, were filling the dance floor, Kate and Tom headed to the beach for photos. “It was just such a special time for us to soak it all in and look up at the marquee and hear everyone having fun,” she reflects. “We also practised our first dance, which felt so romantic!”

And what is her number-one piece of advice for those planning a wedding? “Prioritise! Get the big stuff booked in early and the rest sorts itself out. Make sure you have a contingency budget and, if you can afford to, pay money for peace of mind and good service,” she says. “Finally, a good band is absolutely vital and makes the party. Ride the Fire were phenomenal and the dance floor was packed all night. Booking them actually made our day!”

Photography & videography Noah Werth Film & Photography noahwerth.co.uk

Venue St Goran Church & Caerhays caerhays.co.uk

Planning Rebel & Anchor rebelandanchor.co.uk

Marquee The Cornish Tent Company thecornishtentcompany.com

Dress Prea James from Lovely Bride lovelybride.com

Bridesmaids’ dresses The Own Studio theownstudio.com

Groom’s outfit Neal & Palmer nealandpalmer.com

Hair & make-up Grace at Lips & Locks lipsandlocks.co.uk

Flowers Tide Flowers tideflowers.co.uk

Catering Avo Catering Co avo.catering

Transport Perranwell Garage perranwell.co.uk

Stationery Papier papier.com

Scallop shell place names Brush and Pen etsy.com/uk/shop/BrushandPenUKShop

Linen Just4Linen just4linen.co.uk

Props & décor The Natural Hire Company thenaturalhirecompany.co.uk

Entertainment Mariachi King & Ride the Fire from Alive Network alivenetwork.com

The coastal setting of Caerhays, a gorgeous palette and a party-starting band ensured Kate and Tom’s wedding was one to remember

Kate and Tom painted their coastal celebrations with beautiful shades of pink, red and orange

“Having drinks overlooking the sea in Cornwall was a non-negotiable for us!”

“Get your friends involved. It’s really special having them there along the way”

Dance With Me

Burncoose House set the dreamy scene for Alex and Keran’s love-filled wedding day

A meeting in a Falmouth pub 11 years ago led to a ‘non-proposal’ for Alex and Keran. “He was getting a ring made, which I knew about, and he’d planned to hang onto it and propose properly, but I think we both got a bit excited over fish and chips and champagne on a Friday night,” recalls Alex. “I tried it on and kept it on!”

Hugged by flower-filled gardens in a secluded corner of Cornwall, the couple fell for the charms of Burncoose House for their ceremony followed by a marquee reception on the lawn.

“I didn’t want a white dress so I suppose it started there,” says Alex of her inspiration for the blush pink and forest green colour scheme. Her gorgeous floral veil and the soft green of the bridesmaids’ dresses picked up perfectly on the foliage of the bouquets, while cream and blush pink blooms were dotted throughout. “We made a few things ourselves, borrowed lots of bits and pieces from my bridesmaid Katie’s brilliant mum, Vanessa, and let the flowers and foliage do the most,” she explains.

A relaxed morning meant the couple were on top form for their love-filled ceremony, surrounded by their loved ones amidst the lush greenery and natural light of the conservatory. “Keran getting emotional saying his vows,” was Alex’s favourite part of the day: a moving moment after a long wait for the wedding.

“We were meant to get married three months before, but Keran got poorly with Covid two days before the ceremony and we had to postpone everything at the last minute,” she reveals. “Luckily, a fair few of our suppliers were good friends. It was amazing to see them work and they were all absolute heroes.”

Joined by their dog Olive “who lapped up all the attention”, the newlyweds then enjoyed the drinks reception. “It was so good to finally chat to people and meet some of each other’s friends we’d not met before,” says Alex.

“We then sneaked away for some photos while the rain paused,” she says, before settling into the marquee for the speeches and wedding breakfast. A delicious feast of baked seabass with herbs and lemon, charred greens with preserved lemon and dukkah, and laffa bread with za’atar was followed by a feta and honey cheesecake with summer berries. The cake, meanwhile, was an impressive lemon and elderflower confection with Italian meringue.

As dusk fell, the dancing begun in the form of a “hilarious” ceilidh! “We followed it up with a playlist of power ballads – complete with wigs and inflatable guitars – and ‘90s/‘00s classics to round off the night, before a small kitchen party for the last ones standing,” says Alex.

Reflecting on their dreamy day, the couple have one very important piece of advice for soon-to-beweds. “Take out insurance as early as possible,” affirms Alex. “Having to postpone everything at the last minute was stressful, but so many people pulled together for us to make it happen just a matter of weeks later. Also, get your friends involved: it’s really special having them there along the way and you’ll appreciate the extra help.”

Photography Verity Westcott veritywestcott.com

Venue Burncoose House burncoosehouse.co.uk

Marquee Sperry Tents South West sperrytentssw.co.uk

Dress Leanne Marshall leannemarshall.com

Groom & groomsmen’s outfits Trevails trevails.co.uk

Hair Hair By Emma C hairbyemmac.net

Make-up Amy May instagram.com/amymaymua_

Flowers Three Acre 3acre.co.uk

Catering Oliver Thompson oliver-thompson.co.uk

Cake Oona’s Cakes instagram.com/oonascakes

Stationery Suzie Foster Design suziefoster.co.uk

Entertainment Frances Oates Ceilidh

Videography Niamh Thomas

Alex and Keran chose a blush pink and forest green colour scheme for their flower-filled day

Plan a so-you celebration with these top tips from the wedding gurus. This issue, we look at ideas for making your ceremony special

NOTES ON A WEDDING

Consider surroundingsyour

Getting married in your dream outdoor location – whether it’s an ancient woodland or a clifftop overlooking the sea – has become easier now, so think outside the box. Jessica

Write your own vows

This is a lovely way to openly express how you feel for each other, what you mean to each other and what the marriage and union means to you both. Hazel

Sounds good

Live music elevates the guest experience. You may choose a live guitarist, a harpist, saxophonist, string trio playing contemporary songs, or my personal favourite, a gospel choir to serenade you down the aisle. Jessica

Include your loved ones

Incorporate a nod to your nearest and dearest in your bridal outfit. You could wear your mum’s veil, have part of her wedding dress included in yours or even incorporate the favourite flowers of all the special women in your life in your veil design for a poignant touch. Sophie

Create your own traditions

Whether it’s walking down the aisle together, tying a knot and passing the rope to all your wedding party, planting a tree, a sand ceremony, group song, prayer or blessing, think about what you’d really love to include in your ceremony. Hazel

Choose a celebrant

Celebrant-led wedding ceremonies enable you to curate a highly personalised ceremony with your own choice of words, songs and vows. It also makes it even more special if you have a family member or friend who can conduct the ceremony. Jessica

All in this together

Ask family and friends to meet and greet, and formally seat everyone; use their skills to create a beautiful and memorable celebration. Hazel

Don’t just fill time

Sometimes the short and sweet ceremonies are the best. Only include the unique elements that make it yours and highlight you both and your relationship. Sophie

Stay cool

If you’re holding your wedding in the summer, considering having fresh water available for guests and ask your stationer to create ceremony programs in the shape of fans for a pretty and practical touch. Jessica

So-you styling

Use décor to create a stunning backdrop for your wedding; choose colours, textures and tones to add to the look and feel you like. Remember to think about how the ceremony backdrop will frame your photos. Hazel

Love bubble

As an alternative to confetti, hand out mini bottles of bubbles to create a romantic and super-fun photo moment. Jessica

Pets galore

I love it when couples include their pets in their ceremony. Having your furry best friend running around makes it even more personal and special. Sophie

On the move

If there’s a short distance between the ceremony and reception locations, book a roaming band to perform whilst walking your guests to the drinks reception. This will get the party started and create a feel-good atmosphere, not to mention some great photos. Jessica

Timing is everything

Have an evening wedding ceremony while the sun is setting and then finish it off with a fireworks display to light up the night sky. Sophie

The right words

Rather than heading to the internet for recommended readings, choose a unique and heartfelt reading that means something to you both – perhaps a passage from your favourite book or poem. Jessica

Jessica

Sophie

Choose a stunning backdrop for your vows

Marry in your dream outdoor location, from woodland to clifftop Include your pet in your ceremony for a personal touch

A sand ceremony offers a visual symbol of your union

Hand out bottles of bubbles as a fun alternative to confetti

A roaming band will entertain your guests en route to the reception

Planting a tree is a special way to mark your marriage

Celebrants create highly personalised ceremonies

Consider a sunset ceremony for the height in romance

Live music enhances the atmosphere of a ceremony

and the Fox

The 2 Lisas

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