Wed Magazine Cornwall Issue 65

CORNWALL’S FABULOUS WEDDING MAGAZINE

Dream inspiration for a wedding on Cornish shores

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.

Cornwall is synonymous with the sea. You can’t think of the county without visions of sandy beaches, craggy cliffscapes and endless seascapes swimming into your mind. And, when it comes to romance, it’s difficult to resist the prospect of locking lives before an ocean backdrop. This issue, we celebrate the dream of a seaside wedding in Cornwall, whether it’s barefoot on the sands or overlooking a breathtaking cliffscape.

Our bridal fashion story, Call of the Ocean, sets the mood. With its golden sands, dramatic cliffs and views across the north coast, Lusty Glaze is the ultimate coastal wedding venue – and the perfect setting for capturing relaxed and coolly contemporary gowns for a beachside celebration. With the Cornish sunshine sparkling on the blue-green sea and warm sand beneath our feet, shooting gowns in this stunning spot

was a dream way to spend a sunny day in June.

If you’re seeking ideas to immerse your guests in a seaside vibe, For the Love of the Sea is packed with oceanic inspiration, from sea-scented candles to shanty singers. The Cornish coast also features in our Got Wed section. Saskia and Sam, who married on the clifftops of Porthleven and filled their day with the colours of the coastline, had the most joy-filled wedding against shimmering seascapes. Then there’s Jeni and Andy, who savoured some precious moments on the sands of Holywell Bay after their vows, while Matt and Charlie headed to the sprawling sands of Godrevy for some breathtaking photographs.

Headling inland, these pages are packed with stunning styling inspiration, from abundant blooms and luxe country house romance in Once Upon a Dream to a playful, pink-filled party scene at The Lost Gardens of

Heligan in Think Pink. For those drawn to the magic of winter, The Wonder of Winter offers captivating inspiration for a Cornish vineyard wedding, while Golden Glow blends vintage style with a modern twist for an elegant celebration in St Ives.

There’s also a serving of delicious summer drinks inspiration in Sunshine in a Glass and locally made tipples in Sunny Delights, while Sweet Art is brimming with delectable wedding cake ideas. You’ll also find expert advice from wedding photographers in Love Through a Lens, ideas for pre-wedding gatherings in Magic Moments and stellar guidance for starting marriage on the right note in For Better, For Worse. With must-have bridal accessories, jewellery and grooms’ fashions also in the mix, I hope these pages inspire a beautifully ‘you’ wedding on Cornish shores.

Rebecca

Dress & For Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique Necklace The Lucky Sixpence Photography Verity Westcott

bridalbuzz

Editor Rebecca Matthews

Deputy editor

Lucy Lawrence

Chief features writer

Hannah May

Contributors

Elizabeth Chester, Becci Clubb, Rebecca Green, Jessica Kearney, Hazel Parsons, Gemma Thomas, 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

Verity Westcott veritywestcott.com

Venue Lusty Glaze lustyglaze.co.uk

Styling & make-up

Suzi Winter suziwinter.co.uk

Hair

Hair by Emma C hairbyemmac.net

Dress GAIA Bridal, Bliss Bridal Gowns blissbridalgownsco.uk

Model Daria Smirnova

© 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.

BEACHSIDE ROMANCE

Located within pebble-hurling distance of Falmouth’s Gyllyngvase Beach, St Michaels Resort presents a dream setting for an intimate coastal wedding. Beyond the silken sands and ocean vistas, the venue also offers idyllic subtropical gardens, coolly contemporary interiors and delicious menus featuring the finest seasonal ingredients from Cornwall’s fields, farms and waters. And then there’s the award-winning spa. From the large hydrotherapy pool, hydrothermal experiences and bespoke treatments to a spa garden featuring an outdoor hot tub, cold plunge pool and barrel sauna, it’s the perfect spot for indulging in some self-care with your nearest and dearest before and after the festivities.

Take your vows in The Bay, where floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a private balcony gazing out to the hotel’s exotic greenery and ocean beyond. An ideal space for a wedding for up to 70 guests, the light, airy and modern space perfectly complements the coastal setting. Tuck into the finest Cornish foodstuffs with a specially created menu, take a loved-up stroll along the sands of Gyllyngvase and retire to a luxurious room inspired by the colours of the seaside surrounds. Wake up to the ocean and your first day as a married couple in this sublime corner of Cornwall’s coastline.

stmichaelsresort.com

Arianna Fenton

Arianna Fenton

Amber Gudger

Amber Gudger

HEAVEN AT HELIGAN

It’s difficult to imagine anything more romantic than stealing away to The Lost Gardens of Heligan to say “I do”. One of the country’s most enchanting estates boasts some of the finest gardens in Cornwall and beyond. The 200-acre site of natural beauty presents couples with a swathe of stunning spaces to celebrate their love. Specialising in intimate weddings, the venue prides itself on its outstanding service and homegrown food served amidst those jaw-dropping green surrounds.

Now offering elopement weddings, couples can take their vows in one of the garden ceremony locations followed by an afternoon tea with prosecco, for the newlyweds and up to eight guests. Brimming with Cornish flavour courtesy of produce from the gardens and estate, along with freshly baked breads and cakes from the Heligan Bakery, you’re assured a fabulous newlywed feast in this truly unique setting. What’s more, a dedicated event planner will help you with all the details, while you’ll be able to enjoy exclusive hire of designated garden locations and full event set-up by the Heligan team.

heligan.com

STYLE

14. WRITTEN IN THE STARS

Celestial details for an out-of-this-world wedding

16. CALL OF THE OCEAN

Light-as-air gowns and marine-inspired jewels for a modern beach wedding

26. ONCE UPON A DREAM

Set the romance factor to max with luxe touches and abundant blooms

32. WED’S WISH LIST

Our edit of the latest bridal must-haves

36. A GOWN OF ONE’S OWN

Trending bridal fashions, from stylish silhouettes to divine detailing

42. THE FINISHING TOUCHES

Elevate your bridal look with these chic accessories

46. WED’S BOUDOIR Bridal beauty tips and trends

52. NEW METAL

Captivating bridal jewels, from boho charms to shoreline treasures

56. LOVE MATCH

Inspiration for perfectly paired wedding and engagement rings

60. THE COLOUR EDIT

The top trending colours for your grooms wear

66. GOLDEN GLOW

A green and gold palette for a vintage-meets-modern celebration

72. THINK PINK

Pink hues for a fun-filled garden wedding

78. THE WONDER OF WINTER

Candlelit winter wedding inspiration in a Cornish vineyard

FEATURES

48. BE YOUR BEST SELF

Top tips for boosting your wedding wellbeing

65. WED’S HIP LIST

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

84. FOR THE LOVE OF THE SEA

Dreamy inspiration for an oceanic celebration

90. SUNSHINE IN A GLASS

Serve welcome drinks with a summer flavour

93. SUNNY DELIGHTS

Top-tasting summer drinks, from fruity spirits to alcohol-free favourites

97. SWEET ART

The latest trends and styling tips for your cake

102. LOVE THROUGH A LENS Wedding photography inspiration from the experts

109. MAGIC MOMENTS

Kick-start the celebrations early with these prewedding party ideas

145. FOR BETTER, FOR WORSE

How to keep your relationship healthy long after the “I dos”

REGULARS

6. BRIDAL BUZZ

What’s new, what’s hot, what’s on

113. WED’S VENUES GUIDE

Cornwall’s finest wedding venues

155. GOT WED

Newlyweds share a glimpse of their day

WORDS OF LOVE…

194. NOTES ON A WEDDING

Top tips for your planning pleasure

“Love is not blind. It has perfect vision. It makes it possible for us to see as we have never seen before.”

Leo Buscagalia

CHERISHED MOMENTS

Blending documentary with fine art, Tom Hare’s wedding photography presents an honest and beautiful portrayal of your day. “The thing I love most about photographing weddings is seeing the love and joy on everyone’s faces,” he enthuses.

“It’s your day, I’m just there to give you a helping hand remembering it.” Combining his passion for being behind the lens with an innate eye for detail and an unobtrusive approach, the results speak for themselves: authentic moments captured of you and your loved ones, which you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

“Wherever you choose to have your wedding, I’ll be there with you every step of the way, including checking out the venue beforehand to get the best locations –often with you as a couple for our pre-wedding shoot,” he says. Choose from half or full-day coverage to enjoy a range of Tom’s professional services and products, such as an engagement shoot and pre-wedding consultation, private gallery and 500 edited images. You’ll have peace of mind along with the pleasure of Tom’s ‘invisible’ company at your wedding, culminating in a timeless yet stylish album of stunning shots.

thomasharephotography.com

WEDDING SUPERSTITION

The tradition of throwing the bouquet comes from a time when women used to try to take pieces of the bride’s dress and flowers in order to obtain some of her good luck. It was believed that the woman who caught the bouquet would be next to walk down the aisle.

HARBOURING LOVE

Boasting a prime location on the edge of Porthminster Beach and panoramic views across the azure waters and creamy sands of St Ives Bay, Harbour Hotel St Ives offers seaside romance of the dreamiest kind. From grand-scale celebrations to intimate gatherings, the versatile venue boasts light-filled and beautifully styled spaces alongside a dedicated events team to bring your vision to life against this awe-inspiring backdrop.

The newly launched 2024 wedding packages offer a series of options. All include exclusive use of the sea view wedding areas for your ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening reception so you can soak up the scenery while you celebrate. Perhaps you’ll choose ‘The Wharf’, which includes a reception drink, three-course seasonal wedding breakfast and light bites for the evening or ‘The Island’, with the addition of canapés and evening pizza, perfect for keeping your guests’ appetites satisfied so they can last longer on the dance floor. Meanwhile, ‘The Porth’ includes a series of luxe extras such as a glass of Camel Valley for your toasting drink, a Cornish cream tea for your canapés, a Cornish-themed finger buffet for the evening, a complimentary wedding taster for two and a luxury suite for the wedding night.

If you’re dreaming of a winter wedding, the Magical Winter Weddings package is available on selected dates from January to March and October to December 2024. Including four complimentary inland bedrooms and two complimentary 25-minute spa treatments, as well as a variety of fabulous features designed to make the most of the hotel’s luxe facilities, you can look forward to a winter wedding full of the wow factor on the shores of St Ives. harbourhotels.co.uk/st-ives

The newly renovated Stables by Grant Lampard Photography

bridalbuzz

NATURAL BEAUTY

Wild weddings are all the rage for their unspoilt beauty and immeasurable romance. And where better to wed than by the water surrounded by Mother Nature herself at one of Cornwall’s most sublime venues? Situated in St Kew, Cornish Tipi Weddings’ 18-acre retreat comprises a hidden valley with woodland enclosing its natural centrepiece: a spectacular lake, where you can now hold legally binding ceremonies and say “I do” beside the dipping swallows and glistening blue-green water.

Previously, the wedding pavilion was the sole site for the exchanging of vows, with the lakeside providing a scenic space for humanist, pagan and celebrant-led ceremonies and photographs on the jetty, pontoon and in the rowing boat. Now couples can design a day to maximise the site’s breathtakingly beautiful spaces, choosing their ceremonial and celebratory spots to individually suit.

Whether you dream of officially declaring your love by the lake, throwing an intimate woodland party for 20 or a free-spirited festival celebration for 200, Cornish Tipi Weddings’ canvas of ancient oaks, shimmering waters and green spaces blanketed with wildflowers presents a picturesque place for a wedding steeped in the divine beauty of nature. cornishtipiweddings.co.uk

GARDEN PARTY OF DREAMS

Nestled in 12 acres of idyllic gardens in the chocolate-box village of Mawnan Smith near Cornwall’s south coast, Carwinion House redefines the term ‘country escape’. The 18th century house can be found in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty just a few miles from the maritime capital of Falmouth, offering a picturesque rural locale with sandy beaches and subtropical gardens nearby.

The venue has recently launched a series of packages to be enjoyed amidst the picturesque gardens, stunning Raj-style marquee set within the landscaped walled garden and the luxuriously renovated country house itself.

Package One is perfect for those hoping for a sun-drenched weekend wedding between June and August, with the option of catering by esteemed chef Debbie Thorpe. You’ll also benefit from exclusive use of the ceremony room, library, lounge, terrace, gardens and outside ceremony area, plus the Raj-style marquee.

For those planning an intimate wedding for up to 30 (with another 30 in the evening) in low-mid season (September to May), Package Two offers a Friday to Sunday stay at Carwinion House for up to six, plus use of the ceremony room, library, lounge, terrace, gardens and outside ceremony area.

Car parking, toilets, power, water, lighting, a ceremony licence and wedding coordination by Out of the Ordinary Weddings is included with both packages, so you can relax in the knowledge that your wedding day needs are being expertly taken care of. You can also look forward to getting ready at Carwinion House on the morning of your wedding. From the lavender-lined walkways and wildflower-filled gardens to the luxurious accommodation and serene setting, you’re promised a once-in-a-lifetime celebration in this tuckedaway idyll.

carwinionhouse.co.uk

WORDS OF LOVE…

“Love one another, but make not a bond of love: let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.”

Khalil Gibran

bridalbuzz

RUSTIC KIND OF LOVE

Set in more than 300 acres of rolling Cornish countryside just three miles from the north coast, Pengenna Manor offers a series of spaces for a private and personality-packed wedding in a secluded wooded valley.

Your wedding celebrations can play out however you wish across the exclusive use venue, from the 800-year-old manor house and the summerhouse, an idyllic spot for outdoor ceremonies with sweeping valley views, to the Cowyard Barn, a 200-year-old rustic setting for wedding feasts and evening receptions.

A charm-filled room in the original stable block dating back some 200 years, the Stables is popular with couples seeking an intimate and atmospheric space for ceremonies. The space has recently been upgraded with new flooring, doors, windows, lighting and heating. Now available to host small receptions as well as the nuptials themselves, the space has capacity for 60 for a ceremony and 32 for a wedding breakfast. There’s also a hidden dropdown cinema screen and HD projector, ideal for photo or video displays – or how about a cinema night for your loved ones the evening before your wedding? With its timeworn beams and stone walls bedecked in festoon lighting and lit with candles, it makes a seriously special setting for a wedding rich in rustic romance.

pengennamanor.co.uk

WILDEST DREAMS

If you’re seeking truly wow-worthy décor for your wedding, then prepare to be enchanted by the creations of Tiny Infinity. Having moved to Cornwall after the outbreak of war in her home country, Ukrainian artist Ira Ternovska now crafts her incredible flowers – from giant orchids, bluebells, lilies and peonies to smaller-scale posies and hair pieces – from her workshop near St Austell. With each creation boasting extraordinary attention to detail, the talented artist can craft florals or other large sculptural pieces to bring dazzling colour and personality to your celebration.

A recent photo shoot at The Lost Gardens of Heligan showcases Ira’s breathtaking flowers against the elegant backdrops of the Steward’s House and the Folly, which are both available for weddings.

Whether you’re seeking a striking ceremony arch, a stunning bridal bouquet to keep forever or hoping to sprinkle your reception with Alice in Wonderland magic, Ira is passionate about bringing your dream décor to life. tiny-infinity.com

[Photography Elizabeth Melvin / Coordination Art of Weddings / Dress Coastal Bridal / Hair Petra Penfold / Make-up Helena Giles, Your Beautiful Day UK / Model Megan Souch]

Grant Lampard

Grant Lampard

Grant Lampard

written in the stars

look to the heavens to inspire a starry-eyed celebration

compiled by Rebecca Matthews

1. Handmade in Devon by Dandelions and Pearls, this star-dotted design is the celestial wedding dress of dreams! dandelionsandpearls.com

2. A delicate finishing touch for lunarloving brides, this sandcast crescent moon by Justin Duance is crafted from recycled 9ct yellow gold and set with a single diamond. justind.co.uk

3. These lightweight and super-sparkly crystal earrings by Tilly Thomas Lux look stunning worn on their own or paired with other celestial pieces. tillythomaslux.com

4. Embroidered with a galaxy of stars, this hand-embroidered veil by Rebecca Anne Designs adds a celestial twist to a bridal ensemble. rebeccaannedesigns.co.uk

5. Crown your gown with a dazzling halo of stars. This headdress is handmade with pewter stars and Czech fire polished beads by The Lucky Sixpence. theluckysixpence.co.uk

6. Set the starry scene with this simple and stylish stationery on beautifully textured handmade cotton paper by Paige & Co. paigenco.co.uk

7. Name your tables after the signs of the zodiac. Illustrated by artist Hayley Jones of Cornwall-based Moon Phase Studios, these natural soy aromatherapy candles will bring sublime scent and celestial style to your tabletops. moonphasestudios.co.uk

8. Luxe up your hairdo with these twinkling crystal star hair pins by Emmy London. emmylondon.com

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Yeti Photography

Kamila Nowak

Risen Wild Cornwall

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

call of the ocean

Weave a tale of light-as-air silks and tulle against the towering cliffs and shimmering seas of Lusty Glaze

photography Verity Westcott styling Suzi Winter

GAIA Bridal, Bliss Bridal Gowns Earrings The Lucky Sixpence

& For Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Earrings Victoria Louise

Made With Love Bridal, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings Victoria Louise

& For Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Necklace The Lucky Sixpence

Made With Love Bridal, St Ives Bridal Boutique

GAIA Bridal, Bliss Bridal Gowns

& For Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Earrings Victoria Louise

Venue Lusty Glaze lustyglaze.co.uk

Hair Hair by Emma C hairbyemmac.net

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

Model Daria Smirnova

Photography Verity Westcott veritywestcott.com

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

GAIA Bridal, Bliss Bridal Gowns Earrings The Lucky Sixpence

& For Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings Victoria Louise

Made With Love Bridal, St Ives Bridal Boutique

ONCE UPON A DREAM

Begin your happily ever after with a symphony of blooms, the sweetest of confections and the dreamiest of details

A Georgian manor house in the Cornish countryside, a pretty palette of barely-there shades and an abundance of flowers – this styled shoot at Polstrong Manor is pure romance.

Striking the perfect balance between timelessly beautiful and contemporary luxe, the aesthetic is inspired by a neutral scheme that complements a wedding at any time of year. “We wanted to raise the bar and go highend and luxurious, but also make sure a couple could recreate the look without spending a fortune,” explains Sophie Walker of The Little Details by Sophie, who coordinated and styled the shoot.

The breathtaking arrangements of flowers cascade down the staircase, hug the chaise lounge and beautifully drape along the bathtub in the bridal suite, while the smaller details add to the elegant mood. “I wanted to add textures, loads of fabrics, ribbons, beautiful velvet-looking candles and textured papers through the stationery,” says Sophie.

Sweet creations share centre stage with the flowers: a textured cake dotted with petals sits pretty on the tablescape, while a frou-frou cake, adorned with elaborate frills and pearls, looks stunning in the bathtub.

“Later in the day, we added in some more pinks to show couples you can change your theme slightly to make it more ‘party’ later in the evening by only changing the candles,” explains Sophie.

The attention to texture and detail carries into the bridal look – in the soft drape of the silk and the dainty pleats and buttons of the handcrafted gowns, and the hand-embroidered veil and delicate jewellery. It is a seamless blend of classic and modern for an oh-so romantic country house celebration.

Photography Pink Wave Photography pinkwavephotography.com

Videography Blooming Moments Films bloomingmomentsfilms.com

Venue Polstrong Manor instagram.com/polstrong_manor_cornwall

Styling & coordination The Little Details by Sophie thelittledetailsbysophie.com

Hair Dukes & Dames dukesanddames.co.uk

Make-up Seija Richards instagram.com/seijarichards_makeup

Dresses Dandelions and Pearls dandelionsandpearls.com

Veils Rebecca Anne Designs rebeccaannedesigns.co.uk

Garter & after-wedding wear Silk Garters silkgarters.co.uk

Flowers Perdie’s Flowers perdiesflowers.co.uk

Cake White Peony Cake Co. whitepeonycakes.co.uk

Jewellery Becca Williams beccawilliams.co.uk

Stationery Claire Rose Creative clairerosecreative.co.uk

Napkins & table runner The Knotted Napkin Co. theknottednapkinco.com

Silk ribbons Lancaster & Cornish lancasterandcornish.co.uk

Neutral taper candles Ester & Erik, Cloudberry cloudberryliving.co.uk

Pink taper candles Cream Cornwall creamcornwall.co.uk

Car Classics and Adventures instagram.com/classics_and_adventures

Models MJ instagram.com/mj.davis.fitnessMichael instagram.com/michaelxom

wed’s wish list

BOUTIQUE OF DREAMS

If your idea of the perfect bridal shopping experience includes a luxe, contemporary space, rails dripping with designer wear and an attentive, personal service, then pay a visit to St Ives Bridal Boutique. Having moved to new, larger premises on the edge of St Ives, the boutique now boasts customer parking and spacious, stylish interiors to indulge in some of wedding world’s most wanted collections.

Expect gorgeous gowns from the lust-worthy likes of Made With Love, Alma Novia, Love Story Bride and The Little White Dress Edit. Whether you’re pining for modern ethereal, haute couture, classic glamour, effortlessly chic or jaw-droppingly romantic, you’ll find a gown to suit.

If that’s not enough to whet your appetite, the boutique is also home to two new designers: & For Love and Jesus Peiro. Created for “the cool bride, the modern romantic or the nontraditional bride”, & For Love’s exquisite collection is awash with high fashion detailing, seductive cuts, playful features and sculptural accents for modern bridal wear with a distinctive edge. Think spectacular open backs, statement puff sleeves, voluminous skirts, sequins, draped bodices and silk halters that ooze femininity. Then there’s Jesus Peiro, whose mix of classic silhouettes, modern design features and signature style whispers pure magic. From its minimalist strapless satin pencil gown with coat-cape to a so-pretty plumeti taffeta dress and Mikado frock with floral embellishment, this is ready-to-wear art of the most covetable kind.

With a collection of bridesmaid dresses from Maids to Measure also now available at the boutique, your gal pals can dress to impress with similar standout style thanks to the label’s everversatile and extensive offerings that can be worn time after fashion-forward time. stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

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

Lucy Lawrence & Hannah May

GORGEOUS GIFTS

Whether you’re seeking something for your spouse-to-be or gifts to say thank you to your bride squad, Stackers has taken all the hard work out of hunting down that special something.

Available in a gorgeous range of colours, the stylish new wedding gift collection features fab ideas for the happy couple such as a champagne bottle bag and memory storage trunk, while brides-to-be will covet the collection of ring boxes and jewellery box pods. Propose to your bridesmaids with the stunning cosmetic and jewellery bag (perfect for the hen do!) while the watch and cufflink box makes an ideal gift for those tricky-to-buy-for grooms and groomsmen. What’s more, many of the items can be personalised, allowing you to gift those special people in your life something bespoke, beautiful and practical to boot! stackers.com

HERE COME THE GIRLS

Contemporary, stylish and perfect for mixing and matching, the bridesmaid collection from Rewritten is just the ticket for a fashion-forward bride tribe. Whether your maids favour slinky slip dresses, floaty wrap dresses, cold shoulder cuts or asymmetric necklines, there’s a style solution for all shapes and tastes. Or ditch the dress altogether and don a super-chic jumpsuit! wearerewritten.com

BEST FOOT FORWARD

Renowned for her bridal shoes featuring luxury embossed soles and a lucky silver sixpence coin in every shoe, British designer Charlotte Mills has launched her new capsule collection for fashion-forward brides. Pairing classic detailing with modern elements, including feathers, square toes and hourglass heels, the limited edition designs promise to bring a coolly contemporary edge to your bridal ensemble. charlottemills.co.uk

WHAT LIES BENEATH

Gossard’s new Fiesta collection brings together the perfect white bridal lingerie with an added opalescent sparkle to ensure you feel an extra boost of confidence and glamour on your big day. The curve-hugging sheer lingerie will leave you feeling supported and sexy, with detailing including embroidery and lace panelling. gossard.com

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COASTAL COUTURE

Located along the winding streets of Mevagissey on Cornwall’s south coast, Coastal Bridal offers a memorable bridal shopping experience in a welcoming seaside setting. With a strong focus on the individual and an extensive collection of gowns by Victoria Kay and True Bride, you can let your true self shine. Be it a femme-fabulous frock with swathes of tulle, a vintage-chic gown dripping in sparkle or a contemporary, minimalist cut, there’s a plethora of choice.

Promising a “dress for every shape”, Victoria Kay’s gowns offer a choice of colours, patterns and cuts, from floral appliqués in pastel shades to gauntlet sleeves, daring cut-outs and flouncingly full skirts with hidden pockets. True Bride combines the prettiest of details with elegant silhouettes to bring out the romantic side of any bride – think soft satin and light-as-air tulle overlaid with delicate detailing. Drawing inspiration from old-school glamour, the designs are awash with eye-catching attention to detail, featuring intricate beading and organza hand-cut flowers over form-fitting silhouettes.

What’s more, Coastal Bridal is launching a podcast for brides, while its very own in-house collection will soon be joining the wow-worthy gowns at the rails. Described by owner Hailey Macdonald as “classic, timeless and elegant”, the Taylor James collection is pure romance, featuring fabulous full skirts, off-theshoulder straps, deep-V necklines, and lace hems and bodices –see the next issue of Wed Magazine for more. coastalbridal.co.uk

BLISSED OUT BRIDES

Presenting beautiful bridal wear from its north coast boutique, Bliss Bridal Gowns lovingly handpicks every designer collection to ensure the best quality, top choice and most fashion-forward frocks on the market.

“Fresh, trend-led design and boho is beautifully covered by Abella by Allure; Rebecca Ingram by Maggie Sottero offers timeless elegance; and Ella Rosa sees classic styling meet dreamy embellishment,” says devoted owner, Tracy Ashton. “Adding GAIA’s modern, chic and gorgeously crafted gowns to my collection, brides are certain to find a dream design that reflects their unique style and vibe.”

Speaking of timeless elegance, the new Rebecca Ingram collection certainly ups the ante when it comes to divine dresses created for the modern bride. Perfect for a beach party, Dolly’s A-line lace gown with side slit epitomises laidback luxe, while Vesta’s open back, square neckline and giant back bow in gorgeous floral brocade blends old school glamour with contemporary design to show-stealing effect. Meanwhile, Maeve’s floral V-neck chiffon number features a sexy side slit and illusion V-back for seduction unleashed – or for classic elegance reimagined, Patience is a stunning offthe-shoulder Mikado ballgown with plunging neckline made for the modern sophisticate. To top that, for every dress purchased at the boutique, Tracy pledges to plant a tree in collaboration with the Field to Forest Foundation, making a shopping trip to Bliss Bridal Gowns a thing of both beauty and benevolence.

blissbridalgowns.co.uk

A GOWN OF ONE’S OWN

Looking for ‘the one’? Here are the latest lustworthy trends for a stylishly personalised W-day look

words Hannah May

By taking the freshest looks and making them your own, your aisle style will speak of the current time and your individual sense of style.

Simply select your favourite features and combine them to create a self-curated ensemble that’s effortlessly ‘you’. And with designers creating collections awash with detachable elements, layers, add-ons and accessories all allowing a more bespoke approach to building your outfit, it couldn’t be easier to don the must-haves while staying true to your personal style.

We’ve scoured the latest collections to inspire you on your journey to bridal brilliance...

Make material

A renewed focus on fabric is seeing everything from texture to translucency gracing the runways. Not only is the choice of material capturing designers’ imaginations, but the detailing and finish are also being obsessed over. 3D accents, intricate beading, luscious lace, Swarovski embroideries and glittering sequins are all adding an extra level of dimensional interest, while silk, sheer overlays, ruffles, organza, cherry blossom appliqués, origami folds and reams of tulle are used to striking effect. Mix your materials, layer an assortment of features and customise your finish with your favourite adornment (such as pearl, feather or jewel) to further accentuate the look.

Seductive shapes

There’s an air of seduction in wedding world right now. Celebrating the female form in all its bewitching beauty, collections are swooning over the hourglass with a focus on exposed corset bodices and boudoir styles. Think scooped sweetheart and deep plunging bustiers with boned detailing, corset backs, baby doll frocks and ‘naked’ elements such as sheer panels, illusion features, nude lace and skin-baring cut-outs. For a subtle take on the trend, try drapery, mermaid silhouettes, wrap/ bandage gowns and cat-eye necklines – or pair a corset top with sharply tailored trousers for two trends in one ultra-alluring outfit.

Jennifer Wren, Frocks & Frills

Jesus Peiro, St Ives Bridal Boutique & For Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Made With Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Ladybird, Bridal Gossip

Victoria Kay, Coastal Bridal

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Victoria Kay, Coastal Bridal

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Pure, Frocks & Frills Pure, Frocks & Frills

Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Dazzling details

Whether you’re a fan of the minimalist movement and favour a single embellishment or fancy going all-out with a maximalist dress that showcases a multitude of trends, a careful selection of the finishing touches can complete your bridal outfit to modish applause. Anything sparkly features heavily on the bridal wish list, closely followed by rosettes (oversized, cascading, neckpieces), pearls, feathers, beading, crystal work, mini bows, botanical accents and jewels. Opt for a few carefully placed ornamentations or a gown covered in them; either look is to-die-for.

Striking silhouettes

Cuts are making a comeback, with architectural silhouettes appearing alongside sleek minis as designers are once again drawn to shape. The result is a range of dresses designed for both comfort and style, allowing brides to revel in the support of a structured gown while feeling free to dance the night away in light-as-air fabrics. Cleverly constructed gowns not only flaunt the figure, but allow movement too, blending form and function to showstealing effect. From bodysuits paired with dresses and bespoke bridal sets to mini dresses, mini-lows, modern tailoring and structural gowns, the most must-have designs are also amongst the most wearable. Other forerunners in the shape department include asymmetric styles, drop waists, tea-length frocks, slits (with visible under layers) and statement or flared sleeves. Elaborate ball gowns – reimagined with a dramatic sculptural edge – endure as a bridal wear mainstay.

Jesus Peiro, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Abella by Allure, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Pure, Frocks & Frills

Jennifer Wren, Frocks & Frills

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Romantica, Frocks & Frills

Watters, St Ives Bridal Boutique

True Bride, Coastal Bridal

Jesus Peiro, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Kelsey Rose, Bridal Gossip

Jesus Peiro,

St Ives Bridal Boutique

Made With Love,

St Ives Bridal Boutique

Jesus Peiro,

St Ives Bridal Boutique

Victoria Kay, Coastal Bridal

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

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

A different shade

One of the most wanted and wearable modern trends is colour, which can be worn in a range of spectacular ways. From colourful features or accessories to head-to-toe tinted gowns (top tones include blue, gold, black and blush), incorporating a single shade or creating a multicoloured canvas strikes a statement-making, fashion-forward chord. Painted florals are beautifully in keeping with the botanical bride aesthetic, pastels present a subtle inroad to the trend, and all-black outfits offer a sensational dose of high drama.

New necklines

High, low and everything in-between: an abundance of necklines gives brides oodles of individual choice. Off-theshoulder and one-shoulder styles are proving popular, with high, square and mock necks also stealing the spotlight. Pin-thin straps are emerging as one of the hottest trends of the moment along with halters (with long ties) and elegant lace necks. Channel regal style with a bateau neckline or silk-wrapped bodice, pair a portrait with off-the-shoulder or cap sleeves or opt for a plunging neckline for unabashed daring.

Hermione de Paula

Rebecca Ingram,

Bliss Bridal Gowns

Hermione de Paula

Hermione de Paula

True Bride, Coastal Bridal

Rebecca Ingram,

Bliss Bridal

Gowns

Jesus Peiro, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Ladybird, Bridal Gossip

True Bride, Coastal Bridal

Ladybird, Bridal Gossip

Jennifer Wren, Frocks & Frills

Bridal Gossip

You Deserve To Feel Special

Photo: Verity Wescott photography for

THE FINISHING TOUCHES

Elevate your bridal look with one of these top-trending accessories

words Hannah May

Choosing your accessories is more than just picking some little extras you love. Select the latest fresh-off-the-runway pieces that smack of individual style and you’ll find they personalise your look to inimitable effect.

Headpiece Victoria Louise Photography Effortless Productions

Gloves

Nothing adds glamour and an extra sense of occasion like bridal gloves, which are appearing in designer collections in a variety of forms; a versatile go-to for every style type. Whether you opt for high-fashion wrist-length lace gloves with a throwback vibe à la ’80s Madonna or long elbow or opera-length gloves for a regal and sophisticated look, pick a pair or an embellishment (crystal work, pearls, ostrich feathers, star embroidery, bowknots, rhinestones, harlequin cuffs) for instant elevation. Alternatively, detachable sleeves achieve a similarly desirable effect.

Removable trains and overskirts

Layering retains its position on the most wanted list. Detachable elements are key to transformational bridal wear while individualising any look with modish ease. Add an overskirt to a pant or jumpsuit or attach a train for the ceremony before whipping it off to reveal a dance-ready skirt underneath. Overskirts can add volume, shape and extra style to a more paredback ensemble, while tutu tulle train skirts, back bustles and high-low styles are oh-so à la mode.

Capes

Floor-length chiffon capes, tulle capes with intricate embroideries, pearl capelets… The modern alternative to veils continues to capture the imaginations of brides and designers alike with its effortless romance. Draped designs, minimalist chiffon high-low capes, sheer lace and hooded versions, and anything floral – including embroidery, 3D buds, appliqués, botanical elements and handbeaded detailing – all hit the sartorial mark. Throw on a cropped faux fur cape for a winter wedding cover-up or slip on an airy tulle number for a summer shindig with top-trending style.

Hermione de Paula

Hermione de Paula

Wardrobe By Dulcinea

Wardrobe By Dulcinea

Wardrobe By Dulcinea

Wardrobe By Dulcinea

Made With Love Bridal

Made With Love Bridal

Made With Love Bridal

Made With Love Bridal

Made With Love Bridal

Made With Love Bridal

Hermione de Paula

Gibson Bespoke Gibson Bespoke

Gibson Bespoke

Gibson Bespoke

Gibson Bespoke

Rebecca Anne Designs

Kamila Nowak

Veils

Long and sweeping veils remain de rigueur and add a dramatic and romantic edge to all bridal outfits, while face-covering blusher veils are emerging as another wedding wardrobe staple. Updated with different trims (think scalloped lace, rosettes and feathers), the two-tier veil oozes tradition while being reinvented with modern design edge. Standout options include colourful embellishments, floral prints and ‘something blue’ adornments – or add vintage vogue vibes with a classic birdcage veil.

Headpieces

Elaborate headpieces and bridal headbands with eyecatching embellishments including beading, pearls and floral accents are crush-worthy additions to any bridal look. Lush flower crowns, dainty Alice bands, jewelencrusted fascinators and pearl tiaras can generate any desired effect from attention-grabbing to coolly chic. Flowers, geometric and art deco designs, anything with a regal flourish – especially Grecian goddess-esque halo crowns – are all tantalisingly on-trend toppers.

Jewellery

Though the latest bridal jewellery collections encourage a bespoke approach, there are some definite trends worth trying with your ensemble. Anything bloomy including floral earrings and 3D flower chokers will ensure a petal perfect finish, while pearls are reemerging as a stunning staple in bridal jewellery. In essence, anything with an organic shape or inspired by nature hits the mark, from delicate floral chandelier earrings and blousy hoops to ornate leaf shaped pieces and statement buds. Contemporary shapes add modish edge, classic designs emanate a timeless or vintage air, while a mashing of styles – especially pearls and florals –is strikingly on point.

Rebecca Anne Designs

Rebecca Anne Designs

Rebecca

Anne Designs

Daisy Sheldon

Daisy Sheldon Gibson Bespoke

Kamila Nowak Matt Austin

Matt Austin

Kamila

Nowak

Victoria Louise

The Lucky Sixpence The Lucky Sixpence The Lucky Sixpence The Lucky Sixpence Studio Lowen

Mim Howell

Melanie Barnfi eld

Lauren Beth

Kernwell

Photography

Chloe Caldwell

The Lucky Sixpence The Lucky Sixpence

Victoria Louise Victoria Louise

Pierra

G Photography

Adrianna Wedding Photography

Kerry Ann Duff y

Peach

Portman

Victoria Louise

wed’s boudoir

Tips, trends and top products for beauty junkie brides

words Lucy Lawrence & Rebecca Matthews

face time

We love Angela Langford’s deeply nourishing skincare, and Balanced & Beautiful Face Oil is our latest crush. The luxurious mix of kiwi, rosehip and safflower is blended with omegas 3 and 6 to balance the skin; added cypress, bergamot and lemongrass clear blocked pores, while mandarin and frankincense tone and lift. Made by hand in Pembrokeshire, the British brand pours only the finest organic ingredients into its blends, while Angela’s personalised service allows you to target your specific skincare concerns. Leaving your skin balanced, soft and gorgeously nourished, we recommend making this wonder oil a staple in your pre and postwedding beauty routine. angelalangford.com

star serum

The skin on our neck is as delicate as our eyelids but so often neglected in our everyday beauty routines. Given the rise of ‘tech neck’ and the accelerated creasing of the skin due to technology use, not to mention bridal fashion’s love of plunging necklines, it’s high time we lavished it with a little love. Step forward Inlight Beauty’s Neck Firming Serum, a new concentrated botanical serum complex to firm, tone and protect the thinner skin of the neck and décolletage. Combining cacay oil rich in natural retinol, vitamin E and grapeseed oil with camu camu and green coffee extract, this 100% organic serum is filled with anti-ageing ‘dry’ oils, stimulating elastin and collagen while giving your neck some serious TLC. inlightbeauty.co.uk

ooh la la!

Add a little je ne sais quoi to your newlywed hands with the latest collection from natural nailcare brand, Nail Kind. Inspired by the capital of romance, To Paris With Love offers a trio of delectable shades, from the warm raspberry of Do not disturb and the bold blue of Sofie in Paris to the tres chic pink of Rosé rosé. nailkind.com

pucker up

The latest lipstick shades from Code8 Beauty will take you from the hen do to the wedding day, honeymoon and beyond thanks to the velvety matte formula and luscious range of hues. Inspired by beautiful places around the globe, choose from the flattering red Soho Detour, the bright coral Sunset Boulevard, the muted coral Zoom on the Beach and the nude Marrakesh Gardens. Created to enhance the volume of the lips, this long-wearing and smudge-proof lip colour is a bridal beauty bag essential.. codeeight.com

marzi magic

The gender-free scents by Thursday Fragrance are “inspired by moments of joy” – and what could be more joyful than being a bride? We love Marzi, a sweetly uplifting blend of bitter almond, vanilla, brown sugar, musk and carnation – an utterly delicious choice for a W-day scent. thursdayfragrance.co.uk

polished to perfection

We don’t know what we love most about Olverum’s new Body Polish: the soufflélike texture, the deeply nourishing blend of essential oils or the calming scent. Perfect for a luxurious spa-like treat at home, the creamy blend gently exfoliates while deeply nourishing the skin, leaving your skin velvety and wedding-ready. uk.olverum.com

be your best self

Prioritise your wellbeing in the run-up to your wedding and you’ll feel strong, calm and glowing come the big day

words Lucy Lawrence

There’s so much to think about during the leadup to a wedding that it’s not uncommon to crawl into bed the night before your big day feeling burnt out, frazzled and in need of a good rest. Of course, adrenaline, excitement and good old-fashioned love will carry you through the wedding and it will be remarkable regardless. However, having the tools to tackle the stress certainly makes it easier and more enjoyable. Just imagine how wonderful it would feel to begin your day feeling well, happy, healthy, calm and rested. That’s not the stuff bridal dreams are made of – with a little forward planning and some good advice, it can become a reality!

Amy Williams and Anna Ingram, the experts behind A Bride Project (abrideproject.com), a new online programme combining elements of yoga, posture clinics, hair care, meditation, skin care, nutrition, stress management, anxiety support and more, are passionate about helping brides to reduce their stress levels and approach the wedding day – and the new life chapter beyond – in the best possible way. “A Bride Project is all about giving you the tools you need to feel less stressed, more in control, strong, inspired, informed and capable,” explains Amy.

Amy – who comes from the wellbeing world, with more than a decade’s experience as a yoga teacher, massage therapist and support worker – reveals what led them both to start A Bride Project. “We have both seen first-hand so many women try and take on the world and then not fully enjoy their wedding day because they are stressed and anxious before it’s even begun.” Anna, meanwhile, has been a wedding hairstylist for the past 14 years. “I’ve seen so many women experiencing stress-related hair shedding caused by the pressure of planning the ‘perfect wedding’ or looking ‘perfect’,” she says. Here, Amy and Anna offer their advice for a wellbeing-centred journey to the aisle.

In the lead-up

While the months leading to a wedding day are filled with planning, admin and social occasions, it’s important to also see this period as an opportunity to prioritise your wellbeing. “The secret to feeling your best self on the big day is making sure you’ve looked after your mental and emotional health in the lead-up,” says Amy. “Just be yourself. Then turn up and have as much fun as possible!”

Connecting to who you are as an individual and a couple –and what you want for your big day – is crucial. “Don’t try to fit in into someone else’s Pinterest board,” says Anna. “The way a bride can be her best self is by listening to her inner self and not to the latest trends or opinions of others; by creating her own vision and choosing a friendly and professional team of suppliers who will listen, support and guide her through the planning process.”

When to start?

It’s never too early to start working on your physical and mental health. While A Bride Project – which also has a sex and relationships specialist sharing masterclasses and tips – is set to run as a six-week programme, it can be stretched out over as long a timeframe as you need. “It can be started at any stage of planning and all the steps and techniques can be used even after the wedding day. As a matter of fact, it can stay with you as part of your life,” says Anna. So whether you’re newly engaged or have been

planning for a while, it’s already time to prioritise your self-care. “The key points are plan, prioritise, communicate and rest. And the planning and prioritising is not just for wedding admin, it is also means planning fun things,” says Amy.

Book your wedding suppliers as soon as you can so it’s off the to-do list. You can then spend time getting to know them (if required) and you don’t run the risk of someone you’d pinned your hopes on not being available.

Get your glow on

If you want to be glowing on the outside as well as on the inside, there are some simple steps you can take. Firstly, sleep is your friend – which can be easier said than done. “Managing your stress levels will always be the best way to feel glowing as it has such a huge effect on the body as well as the mind,” says Amy, who also recommends staying hydrated. Reach for that water bottle often, and you’re already doing yourself all sorts of feel-good favours. “Staying hydrated may seem like a simple thing to say but, in regard to hair health, it is vital. Treating yourself to wonderful scalp massages and hair oils is going to make you feel great (who doesn’t love a head massage!) and will also boost scalp health and leave your hair glowing,” says Anna.

“Embracing movement such as yoga and dance and remembering to have fun are all so important!” adds Amy. “Happiness has a special kind of glow – that’s the one we’re striving for!

On the day

So you’ve prepped well and are feeling hydrated, rested and probably very excited come wedding day morning! How can you keep that feeling of calm and wellbeing as the day progresses? Firstly, start the day with a proper breakfast (or allocate time to enjoy one later); don’t let it slide as you’ll end up with a blood sugar crash, hungry, thirsty and lethargic.

“Start as you mean to go on,” says Amy. “If you wake up and are instantly rushing around, you are setting your theme of the day. Pause, take a breath, trust that the team and venue have it all in hand and then go out there and soak up all the magic.”

Final top tips

Don’t try and take it all on alone – life is busy and stressful enough without adding organising a wedding into the mix, so don’t be afraid to ask for help and share the work.

“And don’t get too caught up in what you see on social media! Remember, most of it is curated so use it for inspiration but don’t try to replicate,” says Amy. “Be bold and create a day that is all about you and your vision, not someone else’s.”

Instead of endless Instagram or Pinterest scrolling, use that time to really discover yourself – your own style, your own beauty. “Nourish yourself with goodness and invest time into your health and mental wellbeing,” adds Anna. “That is why A Bride Project is focused on taking care of yourself, not just for your wedding day but for many years to come.”

NUTRITION KNOW-HOW

Sonal Shah from Synergy Nutrition knows her foodstuffs. Here, she shares her advice for everything from feeding your skin to boosting your energy levels...

What to eat for energy?

Balanced meals and snacks that have fibre, protein and carbs provide longer-lasting energy. Certain foods are more ‘energising’, especially foods high in iron and magnesium such as green leafy veggies like spinach, rocket, watercress and kale. They also contain vitamin C, which plays a role in energy metabolism in our body’s cells, lifting fatigue.

Beetroot contains nitrates, which increases the uptake of oxygen in the blood conferring an energising effect – think of a spark plug but in our cells! All these veggies can be juiced along with apples and oranges, which provides a further energy boost as the nutrients are predigested and absorbed into the bloodstream faster.

What to eat to promote calm?

Yogurt and fruits, wholesome carbs like oats, rice, bread and pasta work to produce serotonin – a good mood neurotransmitter, which is a precursor to melatonin that helps better sleep at night too. Tart cherries eaten or juiced also help aid a better night’s sleep.

Magnesium-rich foods can help, as magnesium is a relaxant mineral that reduces anxiety and restlessness. Nuts, seeds, leafy greens such as spinach, rocket, Swiss chard and dark chocolate contain magnesium, although you may want to skip eating chocolate close to bedtime as it contains caffeine.

What to eat to help with hydration?

Fruits and vegetables that are more water-dense – like cucumber, citrus fruits, watermelon and other types of melon – all contain minerals than enable our bodies’ cells to hold onto the water for longer, which further aids hydration. Coconut water, fresh juices and smoothies without added sugars are also hydrating.

What to eat to benefit the skin?

Go for antioxidant-rich foods that are high in vitamin C, which promote collagen production in the skin – such as berries, peppers and green veggies like broccoli.

Beta-carotene found in orange and yellow pigmented foods – like sweet potatoes, squash and carrots – literally makes the skin glow, so add these colourful veggies to main meals, raw in salads or blitzed in soups and eat them every day. Having them with avocado, oily fish, nuts and seeds and their oils also gives you a boost of vitamin E, which is a vital antioxidant fat-soluble nutrient that keeps skin youthful. Extra virgin olive oil is something that is still drunk by the spoonful in Mediterranean countries for vigour!

Water is essential for healthy skin cells and reducing wrinkles, and green tea and other herbal teas contain antioxidants for skin cells and have a detoxifying action.

For more information or to book a consultation with nutritionist and health coach, Sonal, email contact@ synergynutrition.co.uk or visit synergynutrition.co.uk

Feeling frazzled?

Some activities to jump into when it all gets a bit much!

“Meditation and restorative yoga are your heroes for feeling clear, calm and ready for anything!” says Amy. Pilates is also a great activity for boosting your mental and physical wellbeing. Lou Davies, who runs Chief Pilates (chiefpilates.com) in Cornwall, is a big advocate of activity that makes you smile. “As long as you’re moving your body and doing what feels good, that’s all that matters,” she says, adding that her mantra “move your body; soothe your soul” means you can expect to come away from her classes “feeling stronger, probably quite sweaty and, most importantly, with a big smile on your face”. The on-demand section of videos on her website ranges from quick five-minute blasts to hour-long sweat and strength sessions, so you can find something to help you feel strong in body and mind, however tight on time you are.

Happy hen do

If you want to get away from a weekend-long drinking session – as fun as they are! –try some of these instead...

“Consider yoga, massages, great food, walks, surfing, sober raves and even watercolour painting classes,” says Amy who currently offers hen retreats through Bespoke Retreats (bespokeretreats.net). “A few Butlers in the Buff have made an appearance (hilariously, joining us for yoga!) but mainly they have been about spending quality time with friends and family, eating well, feeling special, relaxing and having fun.”

“Many brides are choosing days of luxury treatments or something like chocolate making or pottery classes for their hen parties,” adds Anna. “This is such a great idea to create real lasting memories to cherish.”

NEW METAL

The latest jewellery collections and aisle-ready pieces to bring on-trend bling to your bridal ensemble

words Hannah May, Lucy Lawrence & Rebecca Matthews

CHARM OFFENSIVE

Independent jewellers Drakes has a reputation for quality while providing a stunning range of diamond and gemstone jewellery along with popular brands for all budgets and styles. And if you’re a bride with a penchant for a more laidback vibe, then the Plymouth jeweller is home to a perfect boho-inspired brand. Annie Haak is all about channelling positive energy through the use of meaningful mantras and spiritual hand charms that represent luck, love, protection, strength and wellbeing. Handcrafted in 925 sterling silver and gold-plated silver, the beautiful range of stackable necklaces, bracelets and bangles will ensure an exquisite endnote to any bridal ensemble or provide your bridesmaids with a magical gift to treasure on W-day and beyond. Choose from the likes of the turquoise vitality gold stack, spiritual looped silver bracelet, star cluster bracelet, pearls of wisdom bracelet stack and silver full moon necklace; and personalise with your pick of initial charms and colour combinations.

Alternatively, if you prefer mixed metals and colours, then Nomination’s latest collection has just landed at Drakes. Featuring the most fabulous Milleluci bracelets, they comprise a centre symbol, pavé set cubic zirconia for subtle sparkle and a sliding adjuster clasp for a custom fit. Think heart-shaped crystals, four-leaf clovers and tree of life bracelets in a range of finishes made in durable stainless steel. Make an appointment for a personal in-store experience or pop in to peruse Drakes’ dazzling jewellery collections. drakesjewellers.co.uk

FOREVER LOVE

Searching for that special something to complete your bridal ensemble? Or how about a beautiful gift for your mum or maid of honour to say thank you on W-day? Justin Duance crafts the most stunning bespoke pieces from his West Cornwall studio. Specialising in sandcasting techniques, and making the majority of his work using recycled metals, ethical gemstones and salvaged woods, Justin’s collection reflects his natural surrounds to exquisite effect. Whether you’d like to personalise a treasured heirloom, have something new crafted from pre-existing pieces or to buy an item from his coveted range, Justin and his dedicated team can discuss your needs and create or supply something bedazzling to suit.

One of the quickest and easiest ways to acquire one of Justin’s pieces is by purchasing from his ‘off the bench peg’ collection: a specially curated selection of ready-to-wear jewellery featuring everything from spectacular vintage diamond rings and talisman pendants to sandcast cufflinks and pendulum studs. Some are one-offs while others are unique versions of Justin’s classic creations that are instantly available – and ever evolving – online, so visit the site to see the latest, most lust-worthy releases. justind.co.uk

OCEAN TREASURES

You might be planning a barefoot ceremony on the beach, coastal themed nuptials or simply love everything oceanic – in which case, Found Treasure could be your jeweller of choice for those so-you final flourishes. Presenting a rich collection of ocean inspired jewellery, pick from the stunning tidal hoops, textured shell necklaces, organically shaped tidal rings and necklaces cast from seaweed for a seriously stylish nod to the sea.

Cornish maker Naomi Lewis studied at London College of Fashion, where she honed her eye for detail along with a passion for design. Her jewellery is inspired by couples’ personal love stories and connection to the ocean. Creating bespoke pieces allows Naomi to fully channel her creativity, merging her clients’ vision with her signature style. The results are both beautiful and replete with meaning, allowing brides (as well as ‘maids and mums) to wear their very own something new, and something from the sea. foundtreasurejewellery.com

PERFECT PRESENTS

If you’re seeking gifts your bridesmaids will cherish, Milly Maunder has a super-stylish collection. Combining a passion for silversmithing with the ancient technique of granulation, the Devon-based jeweller’s signature style embraces texture and organic design for timelessly beautiful yet incredibly chic results.

The collection offers something for bridesmaids of all styles, from bold hoops, huggies and drop earrings crafted with enamel or pearls to beaded stacking rings and dainty pendants perfect for layering. Make it personal by opting for an initial necklace or bracelet with a disc engraved with your girls’ initials. Milly even offers bridesmaid gift boxes complete with your chosen jewellery, a mini bouquet of dried flowers by Darling Buds, a duo of fudge by The Tiny Baker and a seeded bridesmaids card by Sophie Mantel Illustrations for a super-happy bride tribe! millymaunder.co.uk

ELEMENTS OF STYLE

Calling all brides – and bridesmaids – to be! The new collection from Wanderlust Life guarantees a gorgeous finishing touch for your ensemble.

Elemental is inspired by the powers of earth, air, fire and water, which feature on pendants and earrings via stylised iconography. Based on illustrations by Clara Jonas, the collection includes four organically shaped charms with each piece handcast in the UK using 100% recycled silver and ethically sourced gold.

“The pieces feel charged with meaning and intention, ready to be worn as a talisman by whoever is drawn to the piece,” says Georgie Roberts, founder of Wanderlust Life. “Clara’s illustration draws on ancient wisdom and I love how her aesthetic has a real synergy with the elements and their mysticism to perfectly spotlight the powers of the classical elements of earth, air, fire and water,” she adds.

Pick from four designs in both earrings and pendants, which are blank on the back for engraving. There’s Ignis, the sun representing fire, inspiring and expanding; Aeris: a swallow in flight honouring air for exploration and soaring; Terra’s palm tree to symbolise earth and associations with nourishment and grounding, and Aqua, which features the moon’s phases on a vertical bar to represent water, the flow of life and adapting.

Imbued with meaning and with the added option of being personalised, these pieces present a meaningful and oh-so covetable ‘something new’. wanderlustlife.co.uk

STUNNING SHAPES

Designed and created in St Ives, Stephanie Stevens’ jewellery is inspired by the coastline around her, making her collection of special occasion jewellery the perfect pieces for a South-West bridal ensemble.

Fuelled by the desire to create something “simple and elegant”, her Semple Collection features geometric shapes and a combination of 9ct rose gold and sterling silver with a subtle brush texture to add to the contemporary feel of the striking design. Meanwhile, her Mor collection features a 9ct yellow gold necklace set with a responsibly sourced marine diamond from Ocean Diamonds - a stunning finishing touch for sea-loving souls. Stephanie also offers a bespoke ring service for couples seeking designs tailored entirely to their vision, boasting impeccable attention to detail as well as a focus on fit, durability and comfort. stephaniestevensjewellery.co.uk

LOVE MATCH

Pair your wedding and engagement rings so they sit together as harmoniously as you and your beau

words Hannah May

Charlotte Wooton Photography

Your engagement ring is twinkling on your finger and your journey to “I do” is well and truly underway. Amidst the bewildering list of tasks on your to-do list should be finding a wedding band that perfectly symbolises your union while complementing your engagement ring.

This isn’t always an easy feat, particularly if your engagement ring features an unusual stone or distinctive cut. However, with a little time, effort and advice from the experts, you can be confident you’ll find the perfect pairing for maximum comfort, meaning and style while symbolising your love in the most unique and beautiful way.

“When choosing a wedding ring to go next to your engagement ring, you’re looking for a sense of harmony between both of your rings,” says Jamila Hirtenstein from Justin Duance (justind.co.uk). “As with anything, the best place to start is trying rings on and seeing what you like and what feels right.”

By following your stylistic instinct and practical requirements, the ring-buying process will unfurl organically as you deliberate and decide between a more plain or bling-worthy band, classic or contemporary design, and array of personalised finishes.

“When working with my clients to design their wedding bands, we discuss if they’d like to match the metal and stones used in their engagement ring,” says Cornwall-based jeweller Naomi Lewis from Found Treasure (foundtreasurejewellery.com). “I recommend matching the metal so that the wedding band pairs beautifully with the engagement ring and adds to the design rather than distracting the eye in any way.”

“Just as important is the fit,” adds Abigail Davies from Drakes (drakesjewellers.co.uk).

“The wedding band needs to be a great fit next to your engagement ring. Many styles of our engagement ring are created as ‘wedd fit’, meaning that the setting or centrepoint of the engagement ring sits a little higher on the band part, allowing a wedding ring to slot in neatly next to it and sit flush next to each other.”

Drakes’ goldsmiths can work from your engagement rings to craft something unique that matches the individual contours, while the in-store team can discuss a range of other ring pairing solutions, from a shaped-to-fit wedding ring to a wishbone or even subtle engagement ring alteration to the underneath of the setting to create additional space for the wedding ring.

Jamila also highlights the issue of shape. “A wedding band may sit flat against your engagement ring or it might benefit from curving around it if you have a large or

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unusual-shaped stone. Because we make our rings to order, we can adapt most of our designs to fit around your engagement ring – from gentle waves to geometric shapes,” she says. “Going for a ring that is the same colour, shape and width as your engagement ring can give the illusion of them being one, or at least a very definitive set.” Of course, should you want your rings to stand out side by side, she suggests varying these elements.

“I enjoy working on wave-like wedding band styles, with a nod to the ocean and the concept of fluidity and movement,” says Naomi. “This style works really well with a classic solitaire and three stone styles, as it adds a unique shape to a traditional ring.”

Abi has also observed the trend toward two distinct styles, such as asymmetric stone placement and eclectic pairings of different cuts and shapes of diamonds. “Bear in mind things like position of claws on the engagement and wedding rings to ensure they aren’t an area of added wear,” she says.

“Typically, a harmonious pairing would be to reflect the same cut, shape and quality of gemstones in the wedding ring. So if you are the lucky owner of a princess-cut solitaire, you can be confident that a wedding ring set with a row of smaller square-cut diamonds will work beautifully, while cluster and halo styles of engagement ring also work fantastically next to a diamond set wedding band,” she explains. “Our advice? Pay attention to those subtle details to ensure the best pairing, including claw style, number and placement, width of the channel and overall width and profile of the band.”

Jamila also raises the issue of practicality by asking whether you’ll be wearing your engagement ring all the time, or whether your job or lifestyle may prohibit you from doing so. “Some professions mean you have to take claw-set rings off, for example. If so, consider how the wedding ring looks on its own,” she suggests. “You could add diamonds or gemstones to your wedding band that complement your engagement ring – or bring a pop of colour.”

Finally, it might also be worth future-proofing your decisions. “If you are already planning the ultimate trilogy – an eternity ring too – remember not to go too wide on the wedding band so there’s comfortable room left on your finger,” advises Abi.

LOVE STACK

Ring stacking is all the rage, with many couples choosing to don additional rings to the classic engagement and wedding ring pairing. We love a layered look, especially when the rings commemorate special occasions, such as the birth of a child or an anniversary. From these dainty tiara and crown rings hugging an engagement ring by Erin Cox to these textured designs by Justin Duance and The Remarkable Goldsmiths, let these stunning stacks inspire your own look, rich in symbolism and style. erincox.co.uk / justind.co.uk / theremarkablegoldsmiths.co.uk

1. Drakes drakesjewellers.co.uk

2. Justin Duance justind.co.uk

3. Found Treasure foundtreasurejewellery.com

4. Stephanie Stevens stephaniestevensjewellery.co.uk

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Erin Cox

The Remarkable Goldsmiths

Justin Duance

THE COLOUR EDIT

From cool blues to playful pinks, here’s our pick of the top trending colours for your grooms wear words

Hannah May

SOMETHING BLUE

Appearing in grooms wear across the globe, pick a shade that suits your theme, season or venue and relish wearing your own something blue. From cornflower to electric and midnight blue, current collections are showcasing the entire spectrum. Don a baby blue suit for a summer shindig, opt for a suave velvet navy DJ for a winter wedding, swap a white shirt for a blue one or splice the shade into the minutiae via your tie, pocket square, bow tie or shoes. Mix it up with colour blocking, layering different tones and infusing pattern for extra panache.

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GO FOR GREEN

Perfect for a country celebration, eco event, outdoor ceremony or simply a chic-styled wedding, green is the modern groom’s go-to. Sage, cool mint or dark leafy green – the colour continues to garner attention in all areas of groom’s fashion, from verdant three-pieces to moss-hued accessories. Pick a jewel tone such as emerald for eye-catching edge, sea green for a laidback beach wedding or a custom-made olive green suit for a sartorial statement. Add a must-have texture such as heritage tweed, corduroy, velvet, flannel or herringbone along with a hit of pattern (brocade, botanical accents, florals, windowpane or puppytooth) to elevate your ensemble to even greater heights.

PLAYFUL PASTELS

Softer shades are enjoying a moment in the limelight as grooms embrace a more informal and endlessly fun approach to colour. Think ice cream and sorbet shades of candyfloss pink, light blue, pistachio green, dusty peach and pale lemon for an instantly fashion-forward outfit. Whether you incorporate pastels through your choice of suit or opt for one or two focal points, wear a splash of toned-down colour for instant personalisation.

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MUST-HAVE MONOCHROME

While the tux remains as timelessly on-trend as ever, an emerging aesthetic of new monochrome gives grooms extra wriggle room for individual and swoon-worthy style. The colour-drenching dress code involves taking the same colour but in different tones and tints, so that your wedding wardrobe will consist of a single hue, from the suit and shirt to the tie and even shoes. You might favour a chocolate brown suit replete with retro ’70s appeal, plush plum-coloured ensemble or jazzy black and white three-piece. If in doubt, traditional black tie remains perennially debonair, while an all-black suit is emerging as an option for grooms seeking a strikingly modern look.

NEUTRAL TERRITORY

Stripped-back styling isn’t reserved for the reception – today’s grooms are joining the minimalist movement with their dress code, donning everything from head-to-toe white to understated greige slacks. Not only does a neutral colour scheme blend better with your bride, but it also allows you to revel in simple styling – or stand out with statement features and colour-pop accessories. Picture a pristine sand-coloured suit with an oversized boutonnière, snazzy braces and floral print shirt or a dove grey suit with a fancy shirt or detailed waistcoat. As well as a palette of white, cream and barely-there shades of grey and brown, the trend is toward relaxed tailoring and another top lust-have: linen. Keep it casual with a pair of loafers or sandals, or pair with some classic leather brogues.

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1. Favourbrook favourbrook.com

2. Adam Waite adamwaite.co.uk

3. Skopes at Cornwall Suit Room cornwallsuitroom.com

4. Moss Bros. moss.co.uk

5. House of Cavani at Cornwall Suit Room cornwallsuitroom.com

6. Hawes & Curtis hawesandcurtis.co.uk

7. Twisted Tailor twistedtailor.com

8. Duke + Dexter dukeanddexter.com

9. Fairfax & Favor fairfaxandfavor.com

10. ASOS asos.com

11. Mrs Bow Tie mrsbowtie.com

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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.

enquiries@burncoosehouse.co.uk

www.burncoosehouse.co.uk

Photography by Liberty Pearl Photo & Film Collective

Intimate ceremonies and bespoke harbourside celebrations overlooking the bay

wed’s HIP LIST

EVERYBODY SMILE!

Offering a stunning focal point for your festivities and top quality images and GIFs to boot, Flicksbox offers a photo booth experience to remember. Donating a percentage of their profits to support environmental projects, the duo behind Flicksbox, Phil and Andie Hill, have lovingly crafted each of their open-air booths from reclaimed materials. The coolly styled spaces come complete with a plethora of props and backdrops as well as studio quality equipment and lighting to capture the high jinks of your celebrations in style. flicksbox.co.uk

SHE SELLS SEASHELLS

The perfect place settings for a coastal wedding, Lorraine Burt of The Whole Caboodle lovingly personalises a range of shells, from scallop and capiz shells to mussels and oysters. “I’m a calligrapher so use a dip pen and ink and take my time enjoying the process and making each one beautiful,” she says. The dreamiest finishing touch for a tablescape that sings of the sea, the shells also make for covetable favours. caboodle.wedding

SUSTAINABLE STYLE

Bring a naturally beautiful element to your wedding tablescape with LIGA’s sustainable tableware collections of placemats, coasters, trays and candle holders. Choose from organic cork with designs inspired by nature or, for a kaleidoscope of colour, there’s the Beach Clean collection, which is created by blending eco-friendly cork with recycled waste plastics. What’s more, the eye-catching pieces can double up as stylish, sustainable and useful wedding favours. loveliga.com

TAKING THE CAKE

Seeking a showstopping sweet centrepiece? Debbie Carvey of Red Robin Pantry specialises in bespoke buttercream wedding cakes, handmade confectionery and patisserie. Whatever your sweet dreams are made of, from gorgeous landscapes, abundant flowers or contemporary textured designs, Debbie will bring it to life using Italian meringue buttercream and ganache Using only organic, Fairtrade and sustainably sourced ingredients, Debbie also creates edible flower designs as well as vegan cakes, full dessert tables, cream teas and confectionery, which promise to delight all the senses. redrobinpantry.co.uk

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

Lyra & Moth

The Springles

Noah Werth

A luxe palette of green, gold and white sets the scene for an art deco inspired celebration in St Ives

photography Verity Westcott styling Out of the Ordinary Event Hire

Situated in the heart of the idyllic seaside town, St Ives Guildhall sits within close proximity to a host of scenic beaches. The building retains much of its original 1930s charm, providing a special venue for weddings with a romantic, timeless and sophisticated feel.

This styled shoot showcases the Guildhall’s appeal in all its glory. “Emerald green details and white florals combine with hints of gold to complement the stunning wood panelling and 1930s features, whilst creating an atmosphere of art deco glamour,” says Hazel Parsons from Out of the Ordinary Weddings, who coordinated the shoot.

Starting with the lovestruck couple, a look of vintage luxe is carried in everything from the dress code to the jewellery. The groom’s classic black tux is accompanied by the bride’s spectacular embroidered gown, which features shoestring straps with marabou tassels, feather fringed sleeves and a dipped cowl back, epitomising vintage-meets-contemporary bridal style.

The décor is equally striking. Lush foliage and cream blooms are pared-back yet manage to stand out in their luxe simplicity, providing the perfect palette. Gold leaf votives, candlesticks and gold-rimmed wine glasses and charger plates achieve an air of opulence against the crisp white linens and draped chair seat covers. Art deco detailing greets botanical elements and gold accents to showstopping effect in the tiered cake. The stationery follows suit, blending gold, green and white with beautiful calligraphy, while a scattering of glass lanterns and fairy lights complete the ambient scene.

Hazel suggests relocating after the vows to relish more of the town’s scenic spots. “Couples can also take advantage of the stunning St Nicholas Chapel,” she says. “Standing on the iconic ‘Island’ in St Ives with uninterrupted views over the Cornish coast, the chapel is available for vow renewals, other special events or for a blessing following your ceremony at the Guildhall.”

Venue & furniture St Ives Guildhall stivesguildhall.co.uk/weddings

Photography Verity Westcott veritywestcott.com

Celebrants Cornish Celebrants cornishcelebrants.co.uk

Hair Simone Kynita instagram.com/simoneknyitastylist

Make-up Makeup by Verity makeupbyverity.co.uk

Coordination Out of the Ordinary Weddings outoftheordinaryweddings.com

Styling Out of the Ordinary Event Hire outoftheordinaryeventhire.com

Dresses Christine Trewinnard instagram.com/ctrewinnard Suit Cornwall Suit Room cornwallsuitroom.com

Headwear & jewellery The Lucky Sixpence theluckysixpence.co.uk

Kirsty Bridgewater kirstybridgewater.com

Flowers Wheal Sara Flowers whealsaraflowers.co.uk

Stationery Rocha Designs rochadesigns.co.uk

Cake Craftycakehole craftycakehole.co.uk

Furniture & napkins Abbotts Event Hire abbottseventhire.co.uk

Chair sashes Emily Rose Event Hire instagram.com/emilyroseeventshire

Models Jess Black facebook.com/jess.black.3363 Tommy Lumley

THINK PINK

Vibrant reds and deep fuchsia pinks shine bright in this flower-filled scene at The Lost Gardens of Heligan

photography Chris Armstrong styling Bird & Bear Blooms

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, with its network of florafilled gardens and magical woodland to explore, is the perfect setting for a colour-led celebration. Inspired by the Pantone Colour of the Year, Viva Magenta, this styled shoot blends a bold and beautifully romantic palette with a fabulous sense of fun.

It is the floristry that brilliantly carries the theme. From the bouquet, a vivid cluster of carnations, ranunculus and anthurium in shades of soft pink through to deep red, to the installation of dried blooms framed with pink palm leaves, the florals pop with playful romance. Details such as the heart motifs, lollipops and balloons as well as the bold floral prints and contemporary typography enhance the fun factor.

The light, chiffon sleeves and soft skirts of the bridal gown, together with pearl jewels and a relaxed updo, adds easy elegance to the memorable scene in this beautifully versatile venue.

Venue The Lost Gardens of Heligan heligan.com

Concept, styling, dried flower installation, floral hair piece & floral earrings Bird & Bear Blooms instagram.com/birdandbearblooms

Photography Chris Armstrong Photography chrisarmstrongphotography.co.uk

Videography

Charlie Flounders Photo & Film charlieflounders.com

Wedding dress Bliss Bridal Gowns blissbridalgowns.co.uk

Bridesmaid dress Lucy Can’t Dance lucycantdance.com

Suit Cornwall Suit Room cornwallsuitroom.com

Cake White Peony Cake Co. whitepeonycakes.co.uk

Fresh flower bouquet, suit florals & tablescaping Yasmin Downing Floral Design instagram.com/yasmindowningfloraldesign

Hair

Melody-Rose Hair & Weddings instagram.com/melody_hair_weddings

Make-up Carly Angove carlyangovemakeup.co.uk

Signage, tags & drink charms The V.V Atelier thevvgroup.co.uk/atelier

Crochet garter & hearts To Be Adorned tobeadorned.square.site

Lollies Emily’s Lollies emilyslollies.co.uk

Jewellery Bish Bosh Becca bishboshbecca.co.uk

Lights The Sensory Area thesensoryarea.co.uk

Caricatures Cornwall Caricatures cornwallcaricatures.co.uk

Balloons The Balloon Boutique instagram.com/heyballoonboutique

Champagne bottles Bubbles Bespoke instagram.com/bubbles.bespoke

Model Megan Souch instagram.com/mbsouch_

HUSTYNS RESORT CORNWALL

Romantic rural weddings in the Cornish countryside

THE WONDER OF WINTER

A romantic fusion of flickering candlelight and natural elements brings cosy winter vibes to a Cornish vineyard

photography Thomas Frost styling Emily Rose Event Hire

Cradled in a valley close to Cornwall’s south coast, Knightor is a charm-filled vineyard where a rustic barn meets four acres of orchards and wildflower meadows. While it makes a dreamy setting for a spring or summer wedding, the autumn and winter months bring a magic of their own and, in this styled shoot, the romance of a winter wedding is evoked through elegant details and nods to the idyllic natural surrounds.

Complemented by a bounty of foliage dotted with cream blooms, the colour scheme of teal, forest green and gold makes for a striking scene against the Cornish granite walls of the 18th century barn. Flora and foliage carry from the tablescape and ceremony arch to the detailing on the stationery, while bold blooms in shades of plum and dusky rose look stunning against the textured teal and gold cake. The gold accents of the cutlery, candlesticks and candleholders add elegance, elevating the tablescape, while cut log place settings and sprigs of eucalyptus enhance the nature-inspired feel.

Outside amidst the wooded grounds, the dappled light glints on the intricate beading of the bride’s gown, shimmering on her dainty jewels and hair pearls, adding magic to the captivating winter scene in this secluded corner of Cornwall.

Photography Thomas Frost Photography thomasfrostphotography.com

Venue Knightor Winery knightor.com

Styling Emily Rose Event Hire instagram.com/emilyroseeventshire

Hair Hair by Victoria hairbyvictoria.net

Make-up Carly Angove carlyangovemakeup.co.uk

Dress Coastal Bridal coastalbridal.co.uk

Cake The Cornish Cakery thecornishcakery.co.uk

Model Holly instagram.com/mitchandholly

for the love of the sea

Take the Cornish coastline as muse and infuse your love of the ocean into your wedding day

words Lucy Lawrence

When you ask newlyweds about their decision to get married in Cornwall, the same reason and location come up time and time again: the coast. From the miles of winding coastal paths and the craggy charm of hidden coves to the silken sands of long, sugar-white beaches, Cornwall’s coastline offers breathtaking beauty and irresistible romance in equal measure.

It’s easy to incorporate your love of the sea into your wedding day. From the scents and sounds to the styling, immerse yourselves in these oceanic ideas for a seaside celebration to remember.

Jewellery Found Treasure Bri Woolnough Photography

Drink it in

A locally made drink is guaranteed to bring the Cornish essence to a celebration. The family who run Mount’s Bay Distillery pour their love of their coastal surrounds into their Cornish rum and gin – seaweed harvested from the low tide shores, and honey and saffron from nearby cliffs and coves. The ceramic bottles housing the Ebba Cornish Dry Gin will also make a beautiful addition to an oceanic tablescape. mountsbaydistillery.com

Sea scents

Drawing inspiration from the rugged north Cornish coast, the Coastal Collection of candles from St. Eval will transport you to your favourite beach. From the ozonic and citrus scent of Sea Salt to the soft, delicate blend of Sea Mist and herbal notes of Samphire & Sage, the fragrances are reminiscent of calm waters and fresh sea breezes. Scatter the tea lights around your venue to immerse your guests in the coastal ambience and incorporate the small coastal pots, with their dreamy, seainspired palette, into your table styling. st-eval.com

Shell out

We love the idea of adopting lobsters from The Lobster Hatchery in Padstow in lieu of wedding favours. A baby lobster will be raised in the hatchery and released back into the wild to support lobster populations, and you’ll get a certificate and information about where and when your lobsters were released. You can even adopt ‘sweetheart lobsters’ – two baby lobsters that will be released together! nationallobsterhatchery.co.uk/adopt-a-lobster

Throw some shade

If you’re planning beach games or al fresco dancing on the sands, up the style ante with these wooden and canvas outdoor parasols from Staycation Vintage Parasols. With canopies that have UVF50+ protection, keeping the sun off has never looked so on-trend, with a range of colours and styles to complement your décor. staycationvintageparasols.com

Say thanks

When the last song has been played and the final crumb of wedding cake devoured, newlywed life often begins with the post-wedding admin! If you’ve got any thank you presents to send, make life easy for yourself and lovely for your recipient with the coastal-inspired gift boxes from Sand and Sparkles. With hand-sourced products from Cornwall, Devon and across the Westcountry, they’re plastic-free and perfect for beach-loving souls: think aromatherapy candles, soaps, chocolate and illustrated coasters capturing the beautiful energy of the coast. sandandsparkles.co.uk

Sounds of the sea

Choose a shanty band inspired by the Duchy for music that celebrates the maritime history of the South-west. The Rum and Shrub Shantymen sing lively shanty and folk songs with passion and pride, while a cappella group The Boilerhouse Singers draw their varied programme from folk, working songs, sacred harp, music hall and original arrangements of poems from Cornwall. Evoking the ancient legends of the coastline, its fishermen and tales of the ocean, the five-piece group’s hauntingly beautiful melodies are sure to enchant your guests. rumandshrub.co.uk

instagram.com/_boilerhouse_

Truly, madly, deeply

Complete your bridal ensemble with coastal-inspired jewellery crafted on Cornish shores. Justin Duance’s striking sandcast rings can be made with sand from any beach; choose the beach you got engaged on, an unforgettable holiday or your local cove that means a lot to you as a couple for a unique and truly meaningful piece of jewellery. Naomi Lewis of Found Treasure creates oceanic jewellery inspired by her coastal home and the changing tides. We love the fluid texture of her tidal rings and necklaces handcrafted using seaweed and shells found on the shore. Meanwhile, Emily Nixon’s marine-inspired designs take the Cornish landscape as muse, the dazzlingly distinctive pieces evoking the textures and hues of the tideline. And Stephanie Stevens is endlessly inspired by the setting of her St Ives workshop, her bespoke creations boasting wave-like shapes, beautiful texture and marine diamonds from Ocean Diamonds. justind.co.uk

foundtreasurejewellery.com

emilynixon.com

stephaniestevensjewellery.co.uk

Emily Nixon

Stephanie Stevens

Found Treasure

Justin Duance

The Boilerhouse Singers

’Tis the season

Sprinkle a little Cornish Sea Salt into your day and treat your guests to a flavoursome sea-themed wedding favour to boot. Available in a range of flavours including Salt & Peppery, Chilli Hit, Fresh & Zesty, Really Garlicky and Smoky BBQ, pop the little pots on your tables for guests to try with their wedding breakfast then gift them as a take-home treat. You could even make up little recipe cards with the flavoured sea salts as inspiration. cornishseasalt.co.uk

Coral chic

Luxury homeware can really elevate your wedding décor and these coral-inspired sculptures from Rowen Homes make a gorgeously sea-chic addition. Crafted from resin in a whitewash finish, the pieces nod to the nautical trend in a coolly contemporary way. rowenhomes.com

Under the sea

Champagne and cake are two of the must-haves at a wedding – and Octavia the Octopus is sure to bring a unique underwater touch to your dessert table or bar, whether you opt for the cake stand with glass cloche or champagne cooler. clickstyle.co.uk

Table of plenty

Weave a marine theme into your linens for a tablescape that evokes a love of coastal living. The stunning nautical designs from XV Stripes will bring your seaside décor to life. From the Seaview organic cotton table runner to napkins, the beautiful deep blue and crisp white linens feature hand-drawn sea-inspired artwork, printed and made in the UK. xvstripes.com

Candlelit calm

Bringing a boho-beach vibe to your styling, these gold shell tea light holders from Bon Bon Fistral will look sweet dotted along trestle tables or scattered in the nooks and windowsills of your venue. Pair them with scented Sea Mist tea lights from St. Eval for a soul-stirring ambience.

bonbonfistral.com

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...

Keep

words Becci Clubb

iStock.com/Moussa81

Choosing to marry in the summer gives you the advantage of longer daylight hours, warmer weather and (hopefully) glorious sunshine, so take inspiration from the season and set the tone of your wedding reception from the get-go with your welcome drinks.

Couple’s cocktails

Make your drinks reception reflect you both by serving each of your favourite cocktails or invent a new cocktail recipe with your favourite ingredients. Personalise a traditional cocktail by renaming it with a fun title incorporating your nickname, first name or new surname. If you have a competitive edge, ask your guests to choose their favourite cocktail and, at the end of the welcome drinks, reveal whether you or your spouse won.

Frozen cocktails

Tap into a summer holiday vibe by serving iced cocktails. Think frozen strawberry daiquiris or a margarita slushie served in cocktail glasses for a twist on traditional welcome drinks. Finish the desert island-inspired drinks with sugar-rimmed glasses, lime wedge garnishes and striped straws.

Drinks station

A fun way to serve drinks, drinks stations also add to the styling of your wedding day. Picture a ‘Pimp your Prosecco’ station, complete with jugs of peach and raspberry purée and fresh berries, so your guests can make their own bellini or garnish their prosecco with fruit.

Just the tonic

Place different gin bottles on a table with a choice of mixers, fresh fruits and herb garnishes for your guests to mix their own drinks. To make even more of a feature of the area, decorate the drinks station with fresh flowers in bud vases, bunting, chalkboard signs or twinkling fairy lights.

Beer buckets

For a relaxed wedding vibe, dot a few large beer buckets outside and fill them with ice. Place bottles of beer, juices and miniature bottles of wine into the buckets for guests to grab a refreshing drink after the ceremony (and don’t forget to attach a few bottle openers for everyone to use!). As well as beer buckets, you can use an old tin bath, wheelbarrows or wooden troughs for a more rustic effect.

Prosecco wall

Move over doughnut wall; the new trend is a prosecco wall! Designed with purpose-built shelving, the wall holds rows of flute glasses for guests to help themselves, creating a feature area and a bubbly backdrop for photographs. Be conscious of where you choose to display a drinks wall, though; if you put it in a narrow area you could end up with guests having to queue to get a drink.

Anyone for Pimm’s?

Nothing shouts summer like an iced glass of Pimm’s and lemonade garnished with mint, cucumber, strawberries and orange slices. Display tall glasses of Pimm’s in pretty crystal-cut glasses on a decorative cart at your summer wedding. Put out little dishes of fresh fruit for guests to add their drinks, along with striped straws in your wedding colours.

Silver service

Ensure your wedding is a sophisticated affair by hiring a waiting team to circulate with a silver tray of drinks throughout your welcome reception. Offer a choice of welcome drinks, whether it’s classic cocktails, bubbly or beer, for your guests to select their favourite.

Champagne tower

A tower display will become a wedding moment, much like the cutting of the cake. Guests watch as the happy couple pour champagne into the top glass until it overflows into the next layer of glasses down the tower to the bottom tier. Pause for a picture during the spectacle, toast to your marriage, then hand each of your guests a coupe glass filled with champagne.

Spanish sangria

Traditionally made using red wine, brandy, oranges and apples, give your guests an option by creating a white wine or rose wine version too. Pair rose wine with strawberries and raspberries and create a white wine recipe including sliced peaches and elderflower cordial for a lighter take on sangria. Serve in the traditional way, in a large jug with a wooden spoon, ready for guests to pour, sip and embrace a balmy summer’s day.

Jars of joy

Large Kilner jars of colourful, iced soft drinks look so inviting on a hot day. Display a selection outside on a wooden trestle table. Choose flavoured waters infused with fruits and herbs, a selection of fruit juices and thirst-quenching cordials to keep all your guests hydrated. Friends and family can grab a glass, turn the tap on the jar, pour their drink and feel instantly cooled as they enjoy it.

Decorative drinks

Make your drinks look interesting with elegant garnishes. From patterned paper straws to edible flowers and sprigs of herbs, make more of your welcome drinks with decorative garnishes. Consider your wedding theme and echo it in the way you serve your welcome drinks. For a beach wedding, how about completing your drinks with cocktail umbrellas in your chosen colour scheme? For a countryside wedding, garnish your drinks with floral ice cubes and fresh berries. For an elegant finish, choose crystal or coloured glassware to reflect your wedding style.

SUNNY DELIGHTS

From cocktail-ready spirits to non-alcoholic favourites, bring a summery flavour to your celebrations with these top-tasting drinks

words Lucy Lawrence

Victuallers Rhubarb & Bergamot Gin by Salcombe Distilling Co.

For a fresh drink with a summer vibe, we love this special edition twist on a G&T from Salcombe Distilling Co. Combining botanicals such as rhubarb, bergamot and kumquat with the more traditional likes of juniper, angelica, cassia bark and lemongrass, the perfectly balanced blend of sweet and sharp flavours makes for a deliciously refreshing and oh-so moreish gin with a natural pink hue. Served with ice, premium tonic water, a slice of orange and fresh ginger, it’s a crowd-pleasing choice for a sun-drenched drinks reception. salcombegin.com

Pen Sans Summer Cup by Pocketful of Stones

Dubbed ‘liquid sunshine’, Pen Sans Summer Cup is the British summertime in a glass, the strawberry-heavy blend of early summer giving way to flavours of gooseberry, raspberry, blueberry and blackberry towards the season’s end. Serve with lemonade or ginger ale and a garnish of mint, berries, cucumber and citrus for a Cornish take on a summer cup or add a dash of prosecco and soda and finish with an orange wedge for a glorious spritz. pocketfulofstones.co.uk

Rose & Cherry Bubbly by Luscombe Drinks

Toast your newlywed status with the special limited edition Rose & Cherry Bubbly from Luscombe Drinks. A sparkling blend of organic rose and cherries, naturally sweetened with muscat grape and finished with Sicilian lemons and Devon spring water, it’s a fruity, fabulous and alcohol-free way to say cheers! luscombe.co.uk

Espresso Martini by Bar Buoy Cocktails

Bar Buoy Cocktails, TORS vodka and Owens Coffee have joined forces to create this rather special Espresso Martini. A blend of TORS vodka, coffee liqueur, Owens cold brew espresso and sugar syrup, the rich and indulgent flavours of this decadent cocktail make for a perfect post-dinner tipple. As the sun sets, the blend of Arabica organic and Fairtrade coffee beans in the cold brew will keep your guests on the dance floor long into the evening. barbuoy.co.uk

Sharpham Pinot Rosé 2022 by Sharpham Wine

You simply can’t beat a chilled rosé for a summer celebration and Sharpham Pinot Rosé 2022 is a delectable choice. Packed with the luscious aromas of redcurrant, raspberry and strawberry thanks to the sun-soaked summer of 2022, the dry and fruity palate comes with an abundance of red berry fruit flavours, making it an easy-drinking delight for the festivities. sandridgebarton.com

Sparkling teas by Saicho

Designed to be enjoyed as an alternative to wine paired with food, adding some bottles of sparkling tea to your wedding breakfast adds a touch of luxe to your non-alcoholic options. The single origin sparkling teas from Saicho come in Darjeeling and Hojicha flavours, as well as the wedding-popular Jasmine, with delicate floral aromas and notes of apple sherbet, lychee and vanilla. saichodrinks.com

Ruby Aperitif by High Point

Fermented, infused and blended on the coast of Cornwall, this aperitif is an exceptionally delicious non-alcoholic choice for your drinks menu. A glorious blend of hibiscus, lavender, wormwood, pink peppercorn and orange and pink grapefruit zest makes for a rich and flavoursome tipple. Serve with tonic water, ice and a slice of pink grapefruit for a refreshing spritz. highpointdrinks.co.uk

Beacon Pale Ale by Driftwood Spars Brewery

Inspired by hazy summer days gazing out to sea, this light and bright pale ale is a stellar choice for a summer wedding. Well balanced and brimming with fresh, zesty tropical fruits, it’s brewed in small batches with the finest British ingredients in Cornwall’s Trevaunance Cove. driftwoodsparsbrewery.com

RAISE YOUR SPIRITS

Whether it’s designing your wedding rings or crafting your décor, we love it when couples bring a bespoke touch to their wedding – and the drinks menu comprises a perfect opportunity to pack a personal flavour into proceedings.

Salcombe Distilling Co. now offers couples the chance to create their own bespoke spirits through its award-winning Salcombe Gin School and newly launched Salcombe Rum School. Create your recipe from a range of botanicals supplied at the waterside distillery (or even get experimental and bring your own) and distil a bottle of gin or rum in a mini copper pot. From sampling to naming your creation, you’ll be able to personalise every element, with the option to distil more of your bespoke gin or rum for the big day. Perfect for raising a special glass with your guests!

salcombegin.com

SWEET ART

Where to start with your wedding cake?

Here’s a bumper serving of the latest trends and styling tips

words Lucy Lawrence

Your wedding cake is more than a sweet treat to round off your wedding breakfast. Whether you’re leaning towards classic elegance or modern design, organic style or beachside vibes, a well-chosen cake will encapsulate the style of your wedding – and delight your guests to boot! So make your cake a standalone feature of the day and give it the attention and love it deserves.

We’ve rounded up the latest trends and flavours, as well as how to style it, so your sweet centrepiece is (almost) too good to eat.

GET CREATIVE

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime cake, so don’t be afraid to be creative. “Every couple I work with is unique, so why should your cake be any different?” says Gemma Thomas from White Peony Cake Co. (whitepeonycakes.co.uk).

“Don’t be afraid to be a little ‘out there’. Let’s push the boundaries and make something really special!”

From floating tiers to bright hues and meaningful accents, think about the designs or details you love and speak to your cake designer about what is possible. “I’ve had some creative requests this season, including a cake where the couple wanted a frog, toadstools and English country garden flowers,” says Michele Farrow at Craftycakehole (craftycakehole.co.uk).

Peboryon

Kathryn Clarke-McLeod

Mollie McAusland

Craftycakehole

Peboryon

Katie Goff

Peboryon

Katie Goff

OMBRÉ EFFECT

Wedding world’s love for ombré wedding cakes is going nowhere. Not only does the subtle colour progression look as romantic as it does stylish, it works beautifully with a range of wedding styles, from rustic tiers atop a log stand to luxurious multi-tiered confections and petite elopement cakes. Consider pairing the trend with fresh or dried blooms, watercolours or oceanic touches for a so-striking centrepiece.

FRESH FRUIT

Bring in an element of the season by incorporating fresh fruit, perhaps combined with flowers, to create a laidback, organic feel. An abundance of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries sing of summer, while passionfruit and pomegranate lend an exotic vibe. We love a glorious blend of fresh figs and dried flowers for an autumn wedding.

BOTANICAL BEAUTY

Weddings are bursting with an abundance of foliage, plants and natural motifs – take the trend to your cake with a carnival of greenery and freshfrom-the-hedgerow details. “I’m seeing a lot of couples going down the botanical route for decoration,” says Debbie Carvey of Red Robin Pantry (redrobinpantry.co.uk). You might consider an all-over leaf pattern, a hint of green detailing, an intricate fern design or perhaps work in some pressed flowers for a gorgeous splash of colour.

FLOWER POWER

There’s nothing quite like a carnival of flowers for taking a cake to the next level. Use blooms to bring colour, texture and height, whether it’s a minimalist cake adorned with crisp white roses or an all-colour affair. From fresh flowers to intricately crafted sugar creations or dried flowers – perfect for bringing a boho-luxe vibe – there’s a world of fabulous floral choice.

Craftycakehole

Lyra & Moth

Red Robin Pantry

Craftycakehole

Emma Barrow

Ausel Cakes Oona’s Cakes Red Robin Pantry

Moon Gazey Hare

Verity Westcott

Ausel Cakes Ausel Cakes

Josh Harkon

Craftycakehole

Craftycakehole

Dan Ward

Craftycakehole Red Robin Pantry

Ross Talling

Ausel Cakes

Pink Wave Photography

Craftycakehole

Amanda Curd

Peboryon

Jeff Oliver

White Peony Cake Co.

Scarlett Photography

Moon Gazey Hare

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

GO FOR GOLD

Gold is stealing the show when it comes to wedding cakes, adding a touch of dazzle to designs. Whether you opt for gold leaf detailing, an all-over glimmer or gold-sprayed flowers or ribbons, this incredibly versatile trend will bring a luxe, modern touch.

STYLE IT OUT

Sophie Walker from The Little Details by Sophie (and Gemma Thomas from White Peony Cake Co. share their styling tips to help you elevate your cake to top tier…

Show it off. Don’t put the most expensive cake you’re ever likely to buy in the corner. Make it a feature, make it stand out and show off the best cake you will ever spend your money on.

Consider your cake stand. Think about what your cake is going to sit on. Is your cake a simple petite cake that would benefit from a tall stand? Or perhaps your cake has a gold leaf finish and a matching gold stand would set it off perfectly? Don’t be afraid to ask your cake designer for advice.

Wait until the sun is done. Don’t put your cake in the window! As beautiful as it may look with the scenery behind it, cakes are made from butter, and butter and sunshine don’t get on!

FULL-ON FLAVOURS

Gone are the days of a fruit cake or a Victoria sponge (as delicious as they are); these days one particular fruit is bang on-trend! “Passionfruit curd is a winner on my flavour list,” says Michele, who pairs it with three sponges of vanilla, coconut and white chocolate.

“Popular flavours include passion cake with passionfruit coulis and coconut Italian meringue buttercream, which is a bit like a carrot cake, but with pineapple and banana,” says Debbie. “Madeira with lemon and blueberry curd, and raspberry, pistachio and white chocolate are always popular too.” Also hitting big in the trend stakes is lemon and elderflower – which was Meghan and Harry’s cake flavour in 2018, proving some trends stick around for a while! We also love the idea of drawing inspiration from childhood memories or family favourites for your flavours.

Get creative. Do you need a table? Cakes can be displayed in weird and wonderful places – why don’t you use a dressing table, piano, bookshelf or ladder?

Stand out styling. Don’t leave your cake table empty; for example, if your cake is white, add dark green candles. Flowers around your cake can look incredible or opt for a hanging installation above the cake to draw focus to it. Fill it with textures, arrange different fabrics around it, add a funky tablecloth or fill it with a variety of candles and candlesticks.

Style is key. If you want your cake table to look as amazing as your cake (that has been lovingly designed, baked and decorated), then hire a stylist. It totally changes from ‘a cake on a table’ to an incredible centrepiece!

Snap away. Make sure your photographer gets lots of photos of the cake before you cut it – faraway photos, close-up photos, detail photos… everything! Your wedding day is over in a blink of an eye, so it’s hard to remember every tiny detail.

thelittledetailsbysophie.com

whitepeonycakes.co.uk

MORE THAN A CAKE

Think beyond a single cake and consider wowing your guests with a dessert station, with the cake at the centre of the deliciousness. From a creative display inspired by the season or your favourite treats – from macarons, marshmallows and meringues to biscuits and cupcakes –dessert stations are a great way to inject personality into your day. If you’re having a small wedding, don’t feel you have to serve lots of options which might go to waste – cupcakes or dipped strawberries are a simple way to elevate your sweet table.

Craftycakehole Peboryon

Lyra & Moth

Craftycakehole

Peboryon

Peboryon

Norsworthy Photography

White Peony Cake Co.

Oliver Harris

Danielle Veitch

Peboryon

Red Robin Pantry

Olivia Rossi

Claire Arscott Cake Design

Jennifer Jane

LOVE THROUGH A LENS

Consider the style of wedding photography you love and look forward to everlasting memories to treasure

words Hannah May

If someone asked you what style of wedding photography you’re thinking of, what would you say? With an ever-increasing focus on the look and feel of everything from your dress code to your décor, the notion of style is core to achieving the wedding you want – and the photography is no exception.

In order to ensure a cohesive day that reflects you as a couple, it’s important to consider the style of every element. If you’ve commissioned a bespoke gown and wedding rings, submitted a hand-picked playlist to your band and created a signature menu and cocktail list with your caterer – why wouldn’t you afford your photos the same attentive treatment? Here’s some elements to consider when it comes to your wedding photography…

WHAT TO PONDER

As a lasting keepsake and reminder of your day for generations to come, your wedding photography is paramount. Yet many couples assume that it’s merely a case of booking someone within their budget and eagerly awaiting the results, without any deliberation of how the final images might appear.

Are you a fan of impromptu moment capturing or posed family portraiture? Do you favour an artisticled approach, fashion-shoot editorial or will you have a checklist of family members to include in a formal line-up? There are several factors to ponder and discuss with your shortlist of favourite photographers, from backdrop and lighting to special effects, editing techniques and depth of field.

How a photographer tackles these things will result in their distinctive style – and your resulting wedding album – so getting clued up and viewing an assortment of their work will help establish whether they are able to capture your day in a way you’re positively ecstatic about.

EMBRACE YOUR FEELINGS

The process should be feel-good from start to finish. From the moment you make contact to the first meet, engagement shoot and big day itself, the photographer and couple should all enjoy a smooth and stress-free collaboration for images that effortlessly enshrine your day in so-you style.

“It’s about capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments that happen not only between the couple, but between their family and friends – all captured totally naturally, without posing or guidance. That’s documentary wedding photography in a nutshell,” says Alan Law (alanlawphotography.co.uk) of a popular style: photojournalism, which presents an individual “on the fly” narrative of the day. Also known as reportage, there’s a host of benefits. “It’s perfect if you’re camera shy or self-conscious,” he says. “You can just be yourself as I won’t be asking you to pose, or repeat things, or look at the camera. My goal is to capture moments while you’re totally unaware I’m doing so.”

Verity Westcott

Alan Law

Verity Westcott

As well as freeing you to focus on each other and relaxing into the day, documentary style is regarded as one of the most authentic forms that generates a truthful account and “fresh, dynamic and unique” set of images. “When people are captured totally naturally, they look their best,” adds Alan. “And you capture the humour!” This combination of emotion and transparency facilitates what Alan believes to be the most desired effect by couples: the ability to share and relive your day. “When you look back at your images, you’ll remember what you were feeling,” he says in summation of documentary-style wedding photography.

GET CREATIVE

“My style is what you could call creative adventure reportage,” says Tom Frost (thomasfrostphotography.com), who adopts his own storytelling style. “I always explain to couples that I want them to look at amazing images of themselves and fondly remember those intimate, meaningful moments – not an awkward posing position that felt wrong or unnatural.” Tom works organically around the mood and characters as the day progresses, actively taking them as muse. “The ‘creative’ comes in throughout the day when I’m looking for something extra; often at night with backlights and smoke bombs or using the drone to set up an aerial shot,” he says.

With many photographers using a range of techniques to exploit their innate style and offer a plethora of services and products, today’s photography can mash traditional methods with modern technology in innovative and beautiful ways. For example, Tom is a qualified drone pilot and has been shooting hybrid (video and stills simultaneously) for the past five years, which began by him wanting to capture elopements in the most unobtrusive way. “Adding video made sense as the couple did not want to have another body at the elopement detracting from the intimacy,” he explains. “With just me, I could keep their costs down, and everything was very light and fixable.” His fully insured ability to legally fly drones permits him bird’s-eye access to practically any venue, which he describes as “epic for setting the scene”. The use of landscape photography through drone or panoramic shots of the venue and its setting – be it a clifftop, beach or country estate – adds another dose of beauty and drama to your album.

CONSIDER YOUR OPTIONS

Verity Westcott (veritywestcott.com) has also added drone footage to her repertoire. “They’re great for aerial shots and unique couple portraits,” she notes of their versatility. Also a fan of a more oldschool aesthetic, Verity’s unique blend of approaches merges a sense of bygone and modern beauty for images with both poignancy and presence.

“I’ve been offering Polaroids for a while as it’s a lovely immediate gift for the couple on the evening when you leave the wedding. I have seen this as a trend, with a lot more photographers offering this also,” she observes of this and other re-emerging manual styles, including analogue film. The (non-digital) use of film roll can allow the photographer full control over exposure and shutter speed to create unique, real-world images with distinct colour reproduction and grain that can’t be digitally replicated. The end product can be unexpected, yet utterly exquisite, providing an additional set of more tactile, romantic and creative prints to your album for a distinctly fine art feel. “I have started to shoot a roll or two of film at a wedding, and then these still images are incorporated with the final gallery,” says Verity of the analogue revival. “It’s a unique way to get some beautiful images.”

So whether you prefer black and white stills or sweeping drone footage of your venue, pick the style you personally favour for a picture book that tells your wedding story, your way.

Alan Law

Thomas Frost

Verity Westcott

BE CAMERA-CONFIDENT

Top tips for feeling your best when the camera’s on you...

“One of my biggest tips would be to get to know your photographer first so they’re not a stranger on the wedding day,” says Andy Lawrence of South Weds Wedding Photography (southwedsweddingphotography.com). “If you’re not having an engagement shoot, most photographers will be able to meet or video-call you before the day. By the time your wedding rolls around, they should feel like someone familiar who you’re happy to see and feel comfortable to be around.”

On the day, try your hardest not to think about the camera, or what images are being taken. “Trust that your photographer will be in the right place to capture you having the best day of your life,” says Andy. “Just enjoy and embrace the moments, and these will result in authentic photos that show you and your partner as your beautiful best selves.”

While it’s easier said than done, being confident in how you look will help you feel relaxed and happy. If you do feel awkward at any point, a top tip is to just look at your partner. “This will likely result in either a poignant, sweet or emotional moment, or you both laughing – any of which will make a great photo!”

Verity Westcott

Alan Law

South Weds Wedding Photography

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.

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

magic moments

It’s not just one day, is it? If there’s ever an excuse for an extended round of parties, then surely your wedding provides the ultimate. When will you ever get the chance to celebrate not just your coupledom, but all the loves of your lives being together?

Gathering your people to celebrate your wedding before, during and even after the main event is about sharing the love, your lives and huge sense of occasion it affords. So why wouldn’t you want to throw in a few additional events to mark the event in a way that everyone will relish and remember?

Pre-wedding parties no longer spell an inebriated hen or stag do complete with strippers and L-plates (though who are we to argue if that’s your bag?). Instead, today’s pre-nuptial period can involve a series of shindigs designed to offer something more. Perhaps you’ll head off for a weekend abroad with your favourite people, escape to a spa for a stint of serenity, arrange a workshop to create your floral crown/ wedding rings/cocktail menu/wedding décor or book a

words Hannah May

private cinema experience to watch a classic romance with your mum, gran and gal pals.

And remember that it needn’t cost the earth. By being creative with your time and resources, you can plan an hour, day or weekend of fun and frivolity that requires little more than a sense of adventure, be it a drinks soirée in your back garden, a barbecue on the beach, a sleepover at a friend’s house or tickets to a local music festival.

You might want to combine your dress-shopping day out with a celebratory dinner or take the kids to try on their wedding outfits before treating them to a show. However you wish to make the most of the time leading up to W-day, commemorate it by thoughtfully inviting your nearest and dearest to join you.

Here are some pre-wedding party ideas for starters...

For couples

Ditching the wedmin for some quality time together is a no-brainer. Not only can you take the time to

reboot, relax and reconnect, but you can mark the sweet anticipation of your union in style. Whether you need to tweak any emerging relationship issues, de-stress in the comfort of each other’s company or fly off to an exotic elsewhere as a preamble to your honeymoon, anything from a date night to a dinner, spa day or detox retreat will be most welcome during the matrimonial run-up. ‘Earlymoons’ are all the rage, giving couples twice the delight in escaping for both a pre and post-wedded trip together, while creative masterclasses in anything from mixology and pottery to floristry and chocolate-making can serve as a welcome relief from the planning – or help you to tick off more items from your W-day checklist!

For groups

With couples moving away from traditional stag and hen dos in favour of genderless gatherings with greater purpose, intention and memorability, group parties can take practically any form to pair your favourite pastimes with your most beloved people. Why not try a benevolent activity such as a beach clean followed by a surfing session and sundowners on the sand or opt

Start the celebrations early and make the most of time with your loved ones with a whole host of ideas for pre-wedding fun

for a charity fun run rounded off with a concert or comedy night? You could keep it simple with a day of activity at a water or theme park, plan a murder mystery weekend or casino night, head to a food festival or arrange tickets to watch a sports match. Think about who to invite and what they might enjoy to design a party that provides something for everyone, and – above all else – you. Instruct an entrusted close friend to organise it (with guidelines or wish lists) or be bold and allow them free rein to orchestrate a surprise party and see where the day and night takes you.

For the inter-generational

You may want to incorporate multiple generations into your pre-wedding parties –perhaps your baby niece, grandma or great-aunt. There might be ample opportunity to do this with your group party or to invite younger/older friends and family members to planning events such as menu tasting sessions, band appraisals, ring buying or venue visits. Think about how and where you usually spend time with them and use this to organise a special version of a similar thing. For example, if you pay your grandparents a weekly visit then arrange a professionally catered afternoon tea at their house while poring over their wedding album for inspiration, or take them on an outing to their wedding venue or ‘special place’ for an evening reminiscing over dinner or drinks. Pick an event that’ll pique the imaginations of young and old, from a Punch and Judy show to the theatre, and invite your parents and grandparents to an event that both they and you will all appreciate, like a book reading, wine tour, scenic walk and pub lunch, or even a family holiday.

For friends

The growing trend for a post-wed honeymoon for you and your friends is spilling onto the pre-wedding party scene, with more couples opting to take a trip ahead of the big day instead of (or as well as) a separate hen or stag celebration. The idea of a group honeymoon or an ‘earlymoon’ is gathering pace because it’s a brilliant way to start (or prolong) the party mood ahead of time, allowing couples to decompress and take the time out of the planning period to have fun with a carefully selected cohort. If you have friends that live abroad and can’t make the wedding, taking a trip to see them honours your friendship while doubling up as a de-stressing holiday. You could head out before the rest of the group to savour a few days just the two of you before your select few join you or opt for a week-long buddymoon. If you’re travelling from out of county to get hitched in the South-west during a destination wedding, then arriving early or lingering later will provide the perfect space and time for a mini buddymoon. Rent a big house, book a glamping weekend, take a road trip or stay at your venue before or after the wedding to celebrate those final few single or newlywedded days with your most prized pals.

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

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: 50

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 all

Dan Ward Photography

Alexa Poppe Photography

Polhawn Fort

Nestled in a tucked-away corner of the Rame Peninsula with soulstirring 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 or open air on the main lawn. Whether you’re dreaming of frolics on the sands and sundowners on the Mediterranean-inspired roof terrace or cosy candlelit celebrations with the waves crashing at the shore below, this captivating exclusive-use 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

St Michaels Resort

Located within pebble-hurling distance of Falmouth’s Gyllyngvase Beach, St Michael’s Resort presents a dream setting for a coastal wedding. Beyond the silken sands and sea views, the venue also offers idyllic subtropical gardens, coolly contemporary interiors and delicious menus featuring the finest seasonal ingredients from Cornwall’s fields, farms and waters. Take your vows in The Bay, where floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a private balcony gazing out to the hotel’s exotic greenery and the ocean beyond. The award-winning spa is the perfect spot for unwinding with its hydrotherapy pool, hydrothermal experiences and spa garden featuring an outdoor hot tub, cold plunge pool and barrel sauna. Complete with a choice of luxe accommodation, you’ll be tempted to extend your festivities by the sea. stmichaelsresort.com

Total capacity: 70 day, more in the evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 92 rooms, 4 luxury lodges, 24 self-catering apartments

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

First

Light Wedding Photography

Arianna Fenton Photography

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 choice 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 –a 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

Harbour Hotel St Ives

Boasting a picture-perfect position overlooking Porthminster Beach and the fresh-from-a-painting seascape of St Ives Bay, Harbour Hotel St Ives 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

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

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

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

Total capacity: 120

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 72, plus children

Dog-friendly: Yes

The Rockpool

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

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

Nick Bailey Photography

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

VENUES GUIDE:

RUSTIC & COUNTRYSIDE

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

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

Michelle Photography

Ben Selway Photography

Dan Ward Photography

Nick Pumphrey 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

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

 Dan Ward

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

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

PhotoCredit:EmmaStoner

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

for better,for worse

Keep your relationship healthy long after the “I dos” with these top tips from couples therapist Dr Kalanit Ben-Ari

words Hannah May

As W-day looms ever closer, you may be starting to think about the time and space that follows. Are you anticipating myriad changes in your relationship once you’re married or expecting to continue in the same lovestruck way?

With such a focus on the celebrations, many couples can feel a sense of deflation once the nuptials are over. From the post-wedding blues to a sudden shift in identity, marriage can present a whole new – and often shaky – world of the unknown as you negotiate unchartered territories and new challenges.

Whether you want to tease out a few recurring relationship issues, tackle any emerging matrimony

kinks as early as you can or simply embrace the next stage of your love story with eyes and hearts wide open, it’s important to take stock and act accordingly from the very outset of your marriage.

We’ve enlisted the professional help of couples therapist Dr Kalanit Ben-Ari (kalanitbenari.com) to help guide you along the path of perpetual married bliss, where a combination of effort, adaptability and appreciation can deepen your connection for a sustained and healthy life together.

Here is her top advice for achieving a strong and successful marriage...

Make your relationship the top priority

“Not only during the honeymoon phase, but especially as responsibilities increase over the years, such as children, finances and work. Devote enough time, energy, thought and space to be together, nurture romance, grow together and communicate your deepest feelings, thoughts and dreams,” she says. “With time, explore new experiences together to add excitement, novelty and variety.”

By scheduling a regular date night, event or activity, the intention is to dedicate quality time together as a couple. Every couple will be aware of how often and how much time is required to keep the connection alive, so if you feel that you haven’t

FOR WORSE

checked in with each other and might be starting to drift, reinvigorate your relationship with a conflict-clearing conversation, romantic dinner or fun activity. Don’t forget that whatever changes occur throughout your marriage, make time to do the things together you’ve always done, even if it’s a toned-down version such as a weekend away together instead of a far-flung travelling expedition or a film night at home instead of venturing to the cinema. You’ll recall fond memories, maintain a sense of self and remember the core of what makes you tick as a couple.

Learn about relationships, stages and communication

“It’s inevitable to move from the honeymoon stage to the power struggle, so knowing what to expect and how to leverage it to become more connected is beneficial,” says Dr Kalanit.

“My Getting The Love You Want workshop for couples offers insights into the unconscious aspects of relationships, stages of relationships, understanding how your past impacts your relationship and valuable tools to transform conflict into connection and creating the relationship vision of your dreams. The idea is to transition to a conscious partnership.”

If you’re beginning to struggle for any reason, and communication is adversely affected, there is a plethora of help available, from talking to entrusted friends and family members to seeking professional help and reading self-help books. The trick is to identify the lapse, its potential causation and how you believe you can best negotiate it together.

Respect and celebrate differences

“Many couples struggle to tolerate differences and view themselves as the ‘right’ person. You can be right or be in a relationship, but not both – as you both might be ‘right’. In a healthy relationship, learn about and value differences, and work from a common ground to grow together,” says Dr Kalanit.

Compromise is one of the most important factors in every relationship, so work to unite on middle ground you’re both comfortable with. Tap into each other’s strengths and seek to improve any inherent or developing

weaknesses both individually and collaboratively in a safe, honest and kind space. Try to dissolve power struggles as quickly as possible while remembering that marriage is a meeting of minds, bodies and sensibilities. Allow and encourage hobbies and passions outside of the relationship.

“Create space for each individual to learn, grow and return to the relationship with new energy and passion,” she says.

This is paramount. The tendency for married couples to fall into ‘we’ behaviours can solidify your relationship but can also damage it. A healthy and respectful distance (and differing perspectives) gives each partner adequate space to move, develop, vent and experience a personally satisfying life, minus any control issues. Celebrate and encourage your differences, learn and flourish from them, and grow together. Be curious with others and dive into a life full of discovery.

Communication is key “Listen deeply to understand, not just to react. Share without judgement or criticism. Be a source of safety and pleasure in the relationship,” says Dr Kalanit. “Effective communication is vital for a healthy marriage; be open, honest, and respectful when expressing your thoughts, feelings and needs. Listen actively to your partner and try to understand their perspective. We have many stories in our mind about our partners, why they do or not do something, about their motives, thoughts and feelings. Understanding that these are projections and not the truth or fact can be crucial. Learning to check in your assumption with your partner might be transformative to your relationship.”

Again, practise talking therapy amongst yourselves and always keep an open and honest dialogue. However awkward or hurtful you might presume airing an issue might be, withholding it is far more detrimental. Over time, you’ll understand each other’s psyches better and will develop greater resilience and compassion toward feelings and sentiments, whether they’re shared or not.

Invest in romance

“Nurture the physical and emotional intimacy in your marriage. Express affection, engage in regular physical touch and keep the romance alive. Find ways to maintain the spark, such as planning date nights or surprises for each other,” she says.

Marriage requires work and tying the knot doesn’t guarantee an everlasting relationship. Your marriage is a constant dependable, so afford it all the input required to keep it alive and well as it evolves over time and circumstance – all of which you must adapt to.

Practise gratitude

“Show appreciation for your partner and their efforts. Express gratitude for the small things they do and regularly acknowledge and celebrate each other’s achievements and milestones,” says Dr Kalanit. “It is human nature to focus on what we feel we lack, but we often overlook what we have. Develop the habit of acknowledging and appreciating your partner for who they are.”

Courtesy is a common loss over the course of a relationship, so express your thanks for even the most mundane of acts, such as offering a cup of tea or doing the washing up. Try to divide the workload (emotionally and domestically) of your relationship in a way you’re both happy with, acknowledge each other’s contribution and vocalise your appreciation. Small gestures can go a long way.

If you want to see change, start with yourself

“Lead by example. Couples often come to me after years of criticising and blaming each other. I have never seen a couple where one shamed the other leading to a positive change in behaviour and transforming them into the partner of their dreams. Shame, blame and judgement raise anxiety and defensiveness. Learn how to communicate your longings and needs in a way that your partner can safely understand,” advises Dr Kalanit.

Calmly articulate any woes, actively listen to what your partner is saying and try to reach a resolution without allowing your emotions to dictate the direction of the conversation. A sizeable ask for most of us, but one

that gets easier with practice.

Accept you never truly know your partner

“Partners may believe they know each other better than they know themselves, for example, completing each other’s sentences, but this can create more distance,” explains Dr Kalanit. “If we don’t fully know ourselves, it’s arrogant to assume we know everything about our partner. Adopting a mindset of not knowing, where you show up with curiosity and openness, will lead to more intimacy and connection. Also allowing space for your partner to grow and see the change is important, as many couples are not allowing for such a change to happen in their mindset.”

It can take a lifetime to generate even a small degree of self-knowing, so accept that you’ll never fully understand another person –however connected and loving you feel toward them – and especially as you both change over time. Instead, observe and discuss these changes, try to bridge any emerging gaps and allow yourselves to evolve both as individuals and a couple as organically as possible. As long as a safe space is maintained to simply ‘be’, and discussions regularly occur to explore your relationship in all its complex minutiae, rest assured that the love that binds you should find a way to sit, move and expand around and within each other.

If needed, seek therapy before things become more challenging

Always be aware of your ‘normal’ and how much flux in your relationship is a red flag so you can seek help before it’s too late or beyond repair. Issues that fester will not resolve themselves but will instead breed bitterness and resentment, so if communication fails and negative feelings rear up – find your personal cure. Talk to a friend/counsellor/ therapist/your GP, embark upon a creative/educational/relationship course, seek the healing power of nature or wild swimming, or try a new hobby or occupation. Try whatever modes and methods help to re-establish a positively working connection that places you back on the path to marital wellbeing.

Photo Paul Keppel photography

Johanna Graham Quartet

Eat at The Abbey for just £25!

Savour an inspiring 3 course set menu or the Table D’Hôte menu for just twenty five pounds. Ben Tunnicliffe has an enviable reputation as one of Cornwall’s leading chefs.

Praise has been heaped upon The Abbey for local seasonal menus, cooked with real passion which you can

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 01872 713824 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 07437 530509 kernowforno.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 Décor Hire 07731 378469 stargazeydecor.co.uk

Trevarno Event Hire 01209 831333 trevarnoeventhire.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

The Velvet Daisy 077906 92221 thevelvetdaisy.co.uk

Toots & Blooms 07891 492944 tootsandblooms.com

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 Rossi Photography 07470 056050 oliviarossiphotography.com

Ross Talling Photography 07525 781128 rosstalling.co.uk

Stewart Girvan Photography 01209 480699 stewartgirvan.co.uk

Thomas Frost Photography 07584 906088 thomasfrostphotography.com

Thomas Hare Photography 07572 232315 thomasharephotography.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 Green 01579 362253 thegreencornwall.co.uk

Gwel an Mor 01209 842354 gwelanmor.com

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

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 Rosevine 01872 580206 rosevine.co.uk

Scorrier House 01209 820264 scorrierhouse.co.uk

Stennack Farm stennackfarm.com

St Michaels Resort 01326 312707 stmichaelsresort.com

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

Meg and Joe chose a colour scheme of sage green, nudes and blush pink for their rustic boho wedding at Nancarrow Farm

Boho Blush

Nancarrow Farm set the scene for Meg and Joe’s rustic boho wedding

It was a midnight meeting at a Falmouth nightclub that changed Meg and Joe’s lives forever. “He introduced himself, but I was having none of it and told him to go away,” she reflects. “I soon realised he was actually quite dapper though and wanted to continue seeing him!”

Six years of dating later, a windswept proposal in Kynance Cove took her totally by surprise. “When we were getting ready to go for a walk, Joe was frantically trying to get hold of both sets of parents to ask permission and find prosecco without me knowing,” says Meg. “We walked to the edge of the cliff and he popped the question there.”

Falling for the charm of Nancarrow Farm, Meg, who works as a wedding planner, relished putting together the details of their day, selecting a gorgeous colour scheme of sage green, nudes and blush pink for their rustic and boho theme.

She looked every inch the boho-beautiful bride in her lace gown and fishtail braids, together with her bouquet of dried flowers. Walking down the aisle towards Joe provided one of the standout moments of the day for Meg. “Seeing my lovely puppy Nala – her little face when she clocked it was me walking down the aisle – made me burst into tears,” she reminisces.

Their celebrant Sara added lots of special moments, making for a highly personalised ceremony. “It was just so amazing,” says Meg. “Sara told all our funny stories and allowed it just to be about myself and Joe.” Making sure their ceremony was perfectly personal to them, the couple had their own readings, with songs sung by Joe’s sister, Hannah, which she wrote herself. “We had a sand ceremony and we made such a gorgeous love heart-shaped bottle of sand, with combined pink and green colours.”

They celebrated as newlyweds with “pigs and pickles” canapés and bubbly, before a wedding breakfast comprising salted hake scotch egg, slow-cooked brisket with wood-oven sweet potatoes and charred garden gem lettuce, and a triple layer chocolate brownie.

As day turned to evening, guests hit the dance floor to a bespoke playlist, while scores of hot dogs kept guests’ appetites sated. “My dad’s speech was one of my favourite moments,” says Meg. “It was so heartwarming and lovely, and he had to keep pausing because he thought he was going to cry!”

By way of advice for those busily planning couples, Meg adds: “Make sure you book your key suppliers quickly as they get booked up super-fast! Enjoy the process, relish spending time together whilst making things, and don’t get too bogged down with RSVPs or last-minute dropouts. The people who matter will be there and that’s the most precious thing in the world.”

And when it comes to the big day? “Breathe, have a moment during the ceremony and wedding breakfast to look at everyone, smile and see what they’re up to,” she says. “Take it all in as it really does go by in a flash.”

Photography Pink Wave Photography pinkwavephotography.com

Venue Nancarrow Farm nancarrowfarm.co.uk

Dress Willowby by Watters watters.com/willowby Bridesmaids’ dresses Oh Hello Clothing ohelloclothing.com

Hair The Updo Girl theupdogirl.com

Make-up Balance of Beautee balanceofbeautee.wixsite.com

Flowers Twigs & Greens twigsandgreens.co.uk

Celebrant Sara Price sarapricecelebrant.co.uk

Cake Swirls & Pearls Cakes instagram.com/swirlspearlscakes

Macramé runners, cake stand & milk churns Emily Rose Events Hire instagram.com/emilyroseeventshire

Balloon arch & neon sign Snazzy Balloons snazzyballoons.co.uk

Pampas clouds The Youngest Child theyoungestchild.com

Entertainment DJ Mark Warren

“We loved all our precious moments together”

got wed

“Our wedding day was a beautiful blend of shared and unique favourite moments”

Love and Laughter

Matt and Charlie drew upon their loves to create a personality-packed wedding at Stennack Farm

“It all began at King’s College Hospital. I was working as a junior doctor in the Accident and Emergency department, while Matt was a radiographer,” says Charlie of the moment they first met through a shared patient. “Little did we know that this chance encounter would be the beginning of a lifelong journey together.”

Christmas provided the perfect moment for Matt to propose, presenting Charlie with a beautiful Tiffany & Co. cufflink engraved with the words “Will you marry me?” From there, the planning began in earnest and quickly fell into place. “Stennack Farm immediately caught our attention,” says Charlie. “Caroline, the owner, went the extra mile to help us even though the venue was not yet complete –and when it was, it exceeded all our expectations.”

Having originally planned to wed inside, the couple chose to take their vows on the balcony due to unseasonally warm March weather. “For both of us, the ceremony was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the day,” says Matt. “The feeling of having our friends and family gathered together on hay bales created an atmosphere that was both intimate and magical. The cherry trees and weeping willows held a special significance as we gave them as gifts to our friends and family at the end of the day. We also kept two for ourselves to remember the day.”

A stunning mix of floristry saw local spring blooms blending with exotic orchids for a scene awash with colour and scent. The food adopted a Thai-Cornish theme, and was chosen specifically for “our guests to enjoy a unique culinary experience that reflected our love for both places”, explains Charlie. Canapés including Cornish scotch eggs and chicken satay skewers were washed down with Cornish gin and sparkling wine ahead of the main feast. Roasted beet salad, Cornish blue cheese and ciabatta, fishcake patties and chop chop salad primed appetites for braised chuck steak and chicken panang curry, while lemongrass crème brûlée with coconut shortbread and lime fruits “provided a sweet and refreshing finish to the meal”.

“While we both loved the ceremony and the music, one moment that stood out to each of us individually was our first dance,” reveals Matt. “Prior to our wedding, we took same-sex dance classes at Jo’s Dance Emporium in London and learned a breathtaking waltz to Taylor Swift’s Lover. The stunning lifts left our friends and family in awe. Seeing the joy and surprise on their faces as we glided across the dance floor is something we’ll cherish forever.”

When asked for their highlights, Charlie is glad to reminisce. “Our wedding day was a beautiful blend of shared and unique favourite moments. From the enchanting ceremony to the lively music and our dazzling first dance, these memories will stay in our hearts for a lifetime,” he says.

Looking back on those precious moments, he offers his advice for engaged couples. “Budget wisely and choose the perfect location,” he recommends. “Be clear about your expectations and have a conversation with the venue owner to ensure the location aligns with your vision. Plus, keep the little ones entertained! Provide goody bags filled with toys and snacks for children. This thoughtful gesture will keep them occupied and happy throughout the event.”

Photography Thomas Frost Photography thomasfrostphotography.com

Venue Stennack Farm stennackfarm.com

Suits Aristocracy London aristocracy.london

Paul Smith paulsmith.com

Flowers Home Nansledan homenansledan.co.uk

Catering Philleigh Way philleighway.co.uk

Cake The Cornish Cakery thecornishcakery.co.uk

Garden games Claire’s Castles clairescastles.co.uk

Entertainment Bryher’s Boys bryhersboys.co.uk

Something Borrowed somethingborrowedweddingband.co.uk

Matt and Charlie ventured to nearby Godrevy for stunning photographs on the sands

got wed

The Call of Autumn

Jeni and Andy filled their intimate autumnal wedding at Treseren with their favourite food and people

It was during the summer of 2021 that Jeni and Andy, who is a keen photographer, planned a night climb of Mount Snowdon to get sunrise photos at the top. “We set off at 3am but didn’t get to the top until 10am!” reveals Jeni. “We climbed the famous Crib Goch route and when we finally made it to the top (on the hottest day of the year), Andy surprised me by getting down on one knee. It was such a shock and a very special memory.”

Initially sold on the idea of an elopement wedding, the couple discovered Treseren while researching intimate venues. “It was the first place we found and instantly fell in love,” says Jeni. “As well as being absolutely gorgeous and in a beautiful area, we loved that it was designed for small wedding parties and that it meant a whole weekend away with our nearest and dearest.”

Taking her stunning emerald engagement ring as the basis for their theme, the couple also tapped into the season for inspiration. “We wanted our wedding at our favourite time of year and fully embraced the autumnal colour palette,” explains Jeni, whose hands-on approach resulted in a number of elements, such as the stationery and décor, being crafted by the couple themselves.

Her aisle walk to Can’t Help Falling in Love by Kina Grannis was one of her personal highlights. “Seeing Andy’s face – I felt very loved,” she swoons. And though neither her grandma nor Andy’s sister were able to attend, they did manage to view the ceremony via a video link, “which was very special for us both”, she says.

Once the vows were uttered, the newlyweds headed to Holywell Bay for photos. “We are so glad we did this; it gave us some time alone and was a fun adventure with amazing results!” says Jeni. Returning to Treseren, the couple tucked into their favourite meal of a hearty roast beef dinner with all the trimmings finished with cherry pie.

“We went for a relaxed atmosphere with a firepit and a cheese board for the evening, and made a party playlist that we blasted out, turning the drawing room into a disco where we all danced the night away,” says Jeni of the evening celebrations. “Treseren also has Loveday’s, its own glamorous cocktail bar, which helped create the perfect evening.”

Jeni and Andy’s day culminated with a particular type of after-party. “Everyone piled into our room with fluffy dressing gowns and big mugs of tea to talk about the day and their favourite bits!” laughs Jeni. “We couldn’t believe what a magical day it had been. It was absolutely perfect in every way.”

The secret to their success? “Our biggest piece of advice is agreeing what you want and sticking to it,” urges Jeni. “As the months before ticked by, we kept having last-minute panics if we had enough décor or needed something else. We went to a wedding eight weeks before ours and I remember asking Andy: ‘Do we need a harp?’ We didn’t need anything else, and I’m so glad that we stuck to what we knew.”

Photography Photos from Sophie photosfromsophie.co.uk

Venue Treseren treseren.co.uk

Celebrant Elaine Buckley

Dress Mia Mia from Boo Bridal boobridal.co.uk

Suit Marc Darcy marcdarcy.co.uk

Hair Kim Carey Hair kimcareyhair.co.uk

Make-up Hannah May Makeup Artist instagram.com/hannahmaymakeupartist

Flowers Three Acre 3acre.co.uk

Catering Chef in My Home chefinmyhome.co.uk

Cake Pink Fairy Bakes instagram.com/pinkfairybakes

Videography Sean White Films seanwhiteweddingfilms.co.uk

“We couldn’t believe what a magical day it had been”

Jeni and Andy enjoyed the autumnal sunshine on the sands of Holywell Bay

The Colours of Cornwall

for their colour and fun-filled wedding at

Beacon Crag

Within a weekend of meeting via mutual friends, Saskia and Sam had fallen “headfirst into a relationship”. Fast-forward seven years and it was on holiday in Harlyn Bay that Sam proposed, after a “week of carrying the ring everywhere in a highly suspicious ball of socks!”, laughs Saskia.

“The proposal had to be Cornwall, and so did the wedding. It’s our special place and we have spent lots of time escaping down here whenever we can,” she explains. “We chose Beacon Crag – it ticked all our boxes: on the south coast of West Cornwall, with beautiful sea views, space for tipi tents and no early dance floor cut-off!”

Inspired by the colours on Cornish coastal walks, their chosen palette of mixed bright colours –including greens, pinks, oranges, turquoise and yellows – looked stunning against the ocean backdrop. “We were particularly inspired by native crocosmia, which grows all over the hedgerows of southern Cornwall and pops with vibrant orange tones,” says Saskia. “We asked our guests to dress as brightly and summery as they could, and they really delivered!”

It was a family affair when it came to bringing their vibrant vision to life, with stationery designed by Saskia’s sister, Tatiana, using beautiful paintings of crocosmia, and her godmother, Sarah, handmaking and dyeing 200 napkins to match the multicoloured paper lanterns.

“My brother, Nick, cultivated and created all the fresh flowers and plants for the day, as well as hangers and boxes,” she says. “We wanted everything to be living and continue beyond just the wedding day – except my bouquet, which was hand-picked by my mum from her garden in St Hilary that morning.” The baskets were filled with cottage garden flowers and Nick also created small woven baskets to match the ceremony arch for the tables, filled with herbs and flowers, for guests to take home as favours.

Their mini festival wedding saw the celebrations taking place at five different locations at the venue, starting down by the clifftop for the 4pm ceremony and moving up the hill to the dinner and dance tents. “It felt like each stage of the day revealed a new hidden location that left everyone, us included, in awe,” says Sam.

The couple’s “deeply personal, emotional and thoughtful” ceremony was followed by clifftop drinks and canapés before a move to the dining tipi saw guests being treated to beef and catch of the day with Cornish new potatoes, followed by brownies for dessert. A performance by Sam’s brother and his comedy partner had everyone crying with laughter, and the hilarity continued with the speeches, which were punctuated with many moving moments.

“Our first dance was to Fleetwood Mac’s You Make Loving Fun. We didn’t think we would enjoy it as much as we did, but it ended up being really fun and silly as well as romantic,” says Saskia. “The band then played until 1am, then we had a DJ until nearly 3am as there were still so many of us grooving away! People cancelled their taxis since they were having so much fun, and surely there’s no higher praise at a remote Cornish wedding than that!”

In fact, this nods to what Saskia would advise other couples when it comes to their wedding day. “Spend as much time on the dance floor as you can,” she says. “Chatting can happen any time but all your favourite people dancing together is rare!”

Saskia and Sam took inspiration from the Cornish clifftops

“Make moments you remember. Fix in place how everything looked, smelt, sounded, felt”

Saskia and Sam savoured their celebrations in the Cornish sunshine, taking their vows before an ocean backdrop and celebrating into the small hours

Photography Barney Walters barneywalters.com

Venue Beacon Crag beaconcrag.com

Tipis, tables, chairs, benches, festoon lights, fairy lights & disco ball

The Cornish Tent Co. thecornishtentcompany.com

Coordination Rebel & Anchor rebelandanchor.co.uk

Dress & veil Alexandra Grecco alexandragrecco.com

Suit Paul Smith paulsmith.com

Pocket squares Liberty libertylondon.com

Bridesmaids’ dresses Rewritten wearerewritten.com

Hair Joy Faull instagram.com/joyfaullhair

Make-up Suzi Winter makeupartistcornwall.co.uk

Flowers Nick Learoyd instagram.com/nicholasmgl

Buttonholes Laura Mallows instagram.com/lauraroseflowers

Catering Beautiful and the Feast beautifulandthefeast.com

Décor & tableware Abbotts Event Hire abbottseventhire.co.uk

Candles London Candles londoncandles.com

Generator Southwest Electrical Hire southwestelectricalhire.co.uk

Portaloos Andyloos andyloos.co.uk

Entertainment The Distractions thedistractionsband.co.uk

Barney Fishwick & Will Hislop instagram.com/giantscomedy

Mobile bar The Ship Inn theshipinnporthleven.co.uk

Videography Charlotte Dart charlottedart.co.uk

Wild Romance

Kat and Kieran’s festival wedding at Pencarrow was filled with wildflowers, live music and dancing in the woods

It was while studying in Miami that Kat and Kieran made firm friends. “It was nearly 10 years before we finally realised we were in love with each other!” says Kat. Before too long, a trip to Edinburgh resulted in Kieran proposing with a poem he’d written, and a ring hidden inside a Harry Potter book under the chapter entitled The Unbreakable Vow.

Choosing to wed at Pencarrow, the couple set to work planning their festival wedding. “We loved Pencarrow because it offered so many different areas in one venue, from the wisteria-laden arbor to the gardens, the glamping area and the woodland Nightcap Bar,” explains Kat. “We knew it would make our dreams come true.” Choosing to pull their DIY wedding together themselves, their colour scheme was inspired by wildflowers, particularly the mix of reds, blues, purples and greens on Kat’s Sassi Holford wedding dress.

The wedding began with fortuitous timing, with their son Leo waking up from his nap just in time to attend the outdoor ceremony in front of the wisteria arbor. “He joined us at the altar as we signed the register,” says Kat, who reveals the ceremony was one of her favourite moments from the day, particularly “my husband finally hearing the poem I wrote as one of our readings, and seeing him actually cry!”.

A champagne reception then made the most of the expansive gardens before a traditional Indian tuktuk ferried guests to the walled garden for drinks, canapés and garden games.

The couple and their loved ones took their seats in the marquee for speeches and a wedding breakfast comprising a Cornish charcuterie and sharing platters of butterflied legs of Cornish lamb. A two-tier carrot cake and chocolate and Guinness cake, decorated with dried wildflowers, rounded off the feast. And as the food was brought out, there was a surprise in store for the newlyweds.

“My parents had secretly booked singing waiters who started singing to us all. We had guests standing on the chairs singing and dancing You’re Just Too Good To Be True,” says Kat. “It was truly the most magical moment that we didn’t even know was going to happen.”

The night then turned into a real party, with dancing to a live band, before everyone donned silent disco headsets and headed into the woods to the Nightcap Bar. “I’ll never forget seeing all our friends dancing in the woods and realising that everything we had wished for had come true,” says Kat. “We danced around the firepit under the disco ball into the wee hours, before falling into our tipis in the glamping field.”

When reminiscing on her magical day, Kat has advice for those planning to do a lot of it themselves. “If you’re going to book a venue that is essentially ‘DIY’ then I’d definitely recommend a wedding planner, because bringing all the parts together is much more work than you realise!” she laughs. “And remember – love is in the details. The favourite parts of our wedding were the personal touches we’d made; these are what so many people took away from the day.”

“I’ll never forget seeing all our friends dancing in the woods and realising that everything we had wished for had come true”

The expansive grounds of Pencarrow set the scene for Kat and Kieran’s champagne reception, canapés and lawn games

Photography Stuart Dudleston stuartdudleston.com

Venue Pencarrow weddingsatpencarrow.com

Dresses Sassi Holford sassiholford.com Rixo rixolondon.com

Groom’s suit Edit Suits Co. editsuits.com

Bridesmaids’ dresses Monsoon monsoon.co.uk

Groomsmen’s suits Moss Bros moss.co.uk

Hair Hair by Emma C hairbyemmac.net

Make-up Ione Makeup and Hair Artist makeupbyione.com

Flowers The Velvet Daisy thevelvetdaisy.co.uk

Cake Oona’s Cakes instagram.com/oonascakes

Stationery Ella’s Books ellasbooks.co.uk

Tableware Trevarno Event Hire trevarnoeventhire.co.uk

Festival flags The Event Flag Hire Company eventflaghire.co.uk

Entertainment Jessica Louise Sutton jessicalouisesutton.wixsite.com/jessicalouiseharpist Daisy Taylor daisykate.com

The Wanderful Four alivenetwork.com

Videography Baxter and Ted baxterandted.co.uk

Classic Romance

Rebecca and Danny relished their intimate and elegantly styled English countryside wedding at Trevenna

“We met when I was a student and Danny had been working locally,” says Rebecca, reflecting on their chance encounter. “Danny got on the wrong train in Portsmouth and ended up getting off in Guildford as he was on the last train of the day so wasn’t going to get home that night. He checked into a hotel, went to a nearby pub for a drink and I was in that pub with friends!”

The proposal, however, was a perfectly planned event. “We got engaged at Bumi Hills, Zimbabwe, on the water’s edge of Lake Kariba at sunset with a herd of elephants in the background. It was simply magical,” says Rebecca. The couple had quite a wait for their wedding due to the pandemic; but when their May wedding date finally arrived, it couldn’t have been more perfect.

Trevenna was the idyllic rural setting for their classic and elegant English countryside wedding. “We wanted a soft colour palette that complemented the beautiful abundant greenery at the venue,” explains Rebecca. Sage green carried from the bridesmaids’ dresses to the stationery and foliageheavy floral arrangements, which were filled with blooms chosen to reflect Rebecca and Danny’s heritage. “I carried both roses (an English flower) and proteas (an African flower) in my bouquet to represent my English heritage and Danny’s Zimbabwean heritage,” she explains.

Although rain meant that the planned outdoor ceremony was moved indoors, the light-filled space overlooking the gardens, framed by a carnival of blooms, made a stunning setting to exchange vows. The ceremony featured poems read by the couple’s friends along with some Cornish sayings, “which made it very personal”, notes Rebecca.

After celebratory drinks and an acoustic set by Ezmay Grace, guests settled at romantically styled tables for the speeches and wedding breakfast, which featured delicious sharing boards, oven-roasted chicken breast, pan-fried sea bass fillet, triple chocolate brownie and lemon tart.

An upbeat first dance to Dela by Johnny Clegg, a song full of happy memories for the couple, set the mood for a lively evening reception. “Everyone was keen for a party and we danced the night away!” says Rebecca. “Even after the band finished, we set up our own speaker and kept going until 2am. It was just amazing.”

Looking back, the day was full of golden moments. “We loved it from start to finish as everywhere we looked the people we loved most in the world were having fun and making memories,” she reflects. “You always get told your wedding day is the best day of your life and trust us, it truly is.”

Rebecca’s advice is all about prolonging this feeling of joy. “Brides – get in your dress early. The last hour before the ceremony will go by in a flash so enjoy being in your dress with your bridesmaids and parents around you!” she implores. “And save your bouquet to press the flowers. They can then be put in frames and hung around your house as a lovely reminder of your day.”

Photography Nick Walker Photography nickwphotography.com

Venue Trevenna trevenna.co.uk

Dress Rosa Clara from Champagne & Charlotte Bridal champagneandcharlotte.co.uk

Bridesmaids’ dresses David’s Bridal davidsbridal.com

Suit Next next.co.uk Charles Tyrwhitt charlestyrwhitt.com

T.M.Lewin tmlewin.co.uk

Hair The Updo Girl theupdogirl.com

Make-up Sally Orchard orchardmakeup.com

Flowers Escential Blooms escentialblooms.co.uk

Décor Do Me A Favour domeafavouruk.co.uk

Cake Trevenna trevenna.co.uk

Entertainment Ezmay Grace ezmaygracemusic.co.uk

Go Go Gold entertainment-nation.co.uk

Videography Sam + Megan Wedding Films samandmegan.co.uk

Rebecca and Danny chose a palette of soft shades to complement the natural beauty of Trevenna

“It’s good luck to have rain on your wedding day as a wet knot is harder to untie!”

got wed

Natural Beauty

Sarah and Simon’s al fresco wedding paid beautiful homage to her Filipino heritage while celebrating nature to enchanting effect

“We met many years ago at college, but lost touch in our early twenties. A few years later we reconnected online and arranged to meet for a coffee,” reveals Sarah of her and Simon’s path to love.

Their engagement was a simple yet romantic affair. “We were having a staycation in Glastonbury town as I love the festival and was sad to be missing another year due to Covid,” she says. “We got up at 5am to walk up to the tor with our dog to watch the sunrise and he asked me to marry him as the sun came up.”

Choosing Cornish Camels as their venue, Sarah and Simon were inspired by the idyllic natural setting, as well as the Cornish Hunting tartan worn by the groom, best man and ushers, for their green colour scheme and natural styling. Donning a stylishly simple gown and a statement headpiece, Sarah was flanked by bridesmaids in gowns of emerald green.

Filled with dried flowers, foliage and macramé accents, a series of lovingly handmade elements brought a personal touch to the gorgeous wedding scene. The cake was created by Simon’s aunt, while the stationery, flowers, décor and tableware hire were all sourced and made by Sarah and Simon, including the reclaimed gin bottles adorned with fairly lights.

Having held a private ceremony with just their mums during the previous week at Helston Registry Office, the couple hosted a Filipino-based ceremony conducted by their friend Raj at Cornish Camels. Sarah’s brother-in-law walked her down the aisle to a stirring live soundtrack of Ludovico Einaudi’s I Giorno. The ceremony took place outside the Old Barn and featured a reading from Jane Eyre by Sarah’s friend Cindy. “We left the ceremony to 10/10 by Paolo Nutini and greeted guests in the garden where we had prosecco and a cream tea,” adds Sarah of the relaxed celebratory mood.

Musician Kaj played as guests mingled and the newlyweds had their photos taken, before the speeches were delivered in the garden. Guests then settled at the lovingly styled tables for a gourmet barbecue feast including several Filipino dishes cooked by Sarah’s mum.

“After the meal, the camels came down for apples as the venue prepared for the evening do,” says Sarah. “Kaj did a live set followed by a DJ set and our first dance was to James Bay’s Wild Love.”

A day full of standout moments, Sarah finds it impossible to pinpoint a single favourite. “The whole day was just perfect,” she smiles. “I couldn’t pick just one!”

She is, however, forthcoming when it comes to dispensing words of advice to other couples in the midst on their own planning journey. “Try to get as much booked as early as possible,” she advises. “You can never be too organised and it can help manage the stress nearer the date. But most of all, enjoy it!”

Photography Olivia Rossi Photography oliviarossiphotography.com

Venue Cornish Camels cornishcamels.com

Dress Modeca from Champagne & Charlotte champagneandcharlotte.co.uk

Shoes Rainbow Club rainbowclub.co.uk

Kilts Colin’s Bridal colinsmenswear.co.uk

Hair Hair By Victoria hairbyvictoria.net

Make-up The Blushing Barn theblushingbarn.co.uk

Flowers Alison Yeoman Flowers alisonyeomanflowers.co.uk

Entertainment Kaj Music kajmusic.co.uk

Sarah and Simon savoured their al fresco Filipino themed ceremony at Cornish Camels

“The whole day was just perfect!”

Plan a so-you celebration with these top tips from the wedding gurus. This issue, we look at ideas for interactive activities

NOTES ON A WEDDING

The voice.

Instead of the normal guestbook, hire a beautiful old telephone that records guest messages for you to listen back to. You can even hire a full-scale red telephone box if you want to create the ultimate interactive guestbook! Jessica

Knees up.

Nothing brings guests together like dancing, and no more so than a ceilidh. Hire a caller, get your dancing shoes on and prepare for some folk-inspired fun.

Hazel

Playing games.

I love seeing ‘break the ice’ games on tables at receptions, especially when the guests sitting together don’t really know each other! How brave are you feeling? Could you put Cards Against Humanity out and see your friends get open with each other?

Sophie

Back in time.

Create a Victorian sports day with theatrical dress up, welly wanging, egg and spoon race, and an oldfashioned sweet station. Hazel

Musical magic.

Get the party started early by hiring a band that will perform during dinner. Once guests enter the reception space, get the band to play a favourite song and, before you know it, they will be enjoying a predinner boogie. Jessica

Sign up.

An interactive guest book is a fab way to involve your guests. Ask them to create you a date night book or a bucket list, so you can look back on it time and time again. Sophie

Garden games.

Bring out your guests’ competitive edge with some games on the lawn. Think hook a duck, giant Jenga, tug of war, giant Scrabble, Connect 4 or a beanbag toss. Hazel

Anyone for cricket?

If you’re hosting a multi-day wedding, consider holding a quintessentially English game of cricket the day before to break the ice and provide a fun interactive element to your wedding weekend.

Jessica

Art attack.

Whether it’s a live painter or a caricaturist, live artists are fab, guests love watching them do their magic and if you hire a caricaturist, they get to take their art home! Sophie

Van man.

If you’re seeking informal catering, hiring a variety of food vans can bring an interactive element to the day. Whether this is for your main reception food or evening snacks, there is so much to choose from including Mexican tacos, Japanese noodles, flatbread pizzas, churros and gourmet ice cream trucks.

Jessica

Get glittery.

Go for a glitter bar or personalised temporary tattoos – I love seeing everyone get involved, from parents and friends to grandparents… Who doesn’t love a bit of glitter?! Sophie

Tee time.

If you’re thinking of including garden games at your wedding, why not consider hiring mini golf to keep your guests entertained? You could even hire a wedding-themed golf course! Jessica

Sweeten up.

Interactive desserts will bring some flair to your after-dinner events. Whether it’s crepes, waffles or rolled ice cream, your guests will love seeing their dessert being created in front of them. Sophie

Guess who?

Bring a bit of fun to the table when everyone sits down to eat by placing an image of a famous person who has the same first name on place settings. The guests then have to figure out the celeb to find their spot. Hazel

Hazel Parsons, Out of the Ordinary Weddings

Jessica Kearney, Ardour & Bow Weddings & Events ardourandbow.co.uk

Sophie Walker, The Little Details by Sophie thelittledetailsbysophie.com

Garden games are a great way to get your guests involved

Put your guests into teams and see who wins mini golf

Book a caricature artist to create fun portraits of your guests

Nothing brings people together like dancing

Delight your guests with a retro sweet station

If you’ve got outdoor space, set up a game of croquet

Bring an interactive feel to your dessert menu with rolled ice cream

A coconut shy will bring out your guests’ competitive streaks

A glitter bar will bring the fun factor to your wedding

Hire a live artist to create a picture that’ll capture the scene

Charlotte Atkinson Art

The 2 Lisas

Cornwall Caricatures

The Prop Factory

Out of the Ordinary Event Hire

Out of the Ordinary Event Hire

Toby Lowe Photography

Out of the Ordinary Event Hire