Wed Magazine Cornwall Issue 70

CORNWALL’S FABULOUS WEDDING MAGAZINE

STYLING INSPIRATION

WEDDING VENUES GUIDE

BRIDAL FASHION

REAL WEDDINGS

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.

time to celebrate.

This issue is the 70th Cornwall edition of Wed Magazine. Over 70 issues and almost 18 years, we’ve revelled in the joy of inspiring engaged couples with the beauty of this extraordinary county and the talent of its wedding industry.

What an adventure it has been. It’s a pleasure and a privilege to be here – 18 years, 70 issues and over 12,000 pages of wedding inspiration later – still doing what we love and being part of your journey through one of life’s most special chapters. Thank you to our wonderful readers and wedding industry friends for your support and being a crucial part of Wed’s story.

From the first issue, Wed’s ethos has always been centred on ripping up the rulebook and putting you – your loves, your personalities and your unique bond – at the heart of your day. Whether it’s a just-for-two do on the Cornish clifftops, a romantic country house wedding or a festival shindig, it’s wonderful to see so many couples throwing caution to the wind and celebrating their love in truly individual and memorable style.

This issue is no different. In Your Day, Your Way you’ll find ideas for adding an individual touch to your wedding, while Love at First Dance delivers inspiration for dancing to your own beat as the party revs up. Of course, an elopement is the ultimate choice for a wedding day centred entirely on the two of you. Run Away With Me offers expert advice on how to plan your perfect elopement, while three couples share their elopement stories in Small Weddings of Dreams.

From Beccy and Tom’s fun-filled festival wedding and Nicole and Dan’s gorgeous garden celebrations to Hannah and Mat’s beautifully personal ceremony, our real weddings are bursting with bespoke touches. I love the way these couples have woven their love stories into the details to make everything from the music to the menu so evocative and packed with meaning.

Wed’s Styling Guide is packed with inspiration for dressing your day, from autumnal designs at The Lost Gardens of Heligan to back-to-nature vibes at Cornish Tipi Weddings. And, shot in the stunning subtropical setting of Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, our bridal editorial, Garden of Dreams, rounds off this special issue in joyful style. Enjoy!

Rebecca

Photography Laura Buffery Photography

Dress The Ivory Lounge

Flowers Artem Florum

Editor

Deputy

Chief

Contributors

Maddie Astill, Jess Baber, Becci Clubb, Laura Dalton, Abby Driver, Rebecca Edwards, Rebecca Green, Hazel Parsons, Sophie Walker

Design Matt Sanwell, Design UNLTD

Advertising and management Brendan Sleeman

Website management

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 Liam Arthur liamarthur.com

Venue

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens tremenheere.co.uk

Styling & make-up

Suzi Winter using Merit suziwinter.co.uk

Hair Lauren Adams Hair instagram.com/ laurenadamshair_

Model

Meja Jurgelaityte

Dress & For Love from St Ives Bridal

Boutique stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

Earrings The Lucky Sixpence theluckysixpence.co.uk

©

magazine.

HAPPY ON THE HILL

Set amidst a leafy estate comprising 60 acres of meadows, orchards and wooded valleys with elevated views across Porth Reservoir, The Fir Hill offers a dream blend of scenery, tranquility and away-from-it-all charm. Conveniently located within a 10-minute drive of Newquay and the A30, it also has a series of breathtaking beaches on its doorstep.

A versatile, characterful and beautifully individual wedding venue, The Fir Hill offers a lush canvas for exclusive-use weddings all year round, from smaller to medium-sized events during the cooler months to large-scale celebrations from April through to September. Ideal for festival-loving couples, a free-spirited vibe is palpable as you wander the wildflower meadows and orchards laden with apples. Couples can marry in the historic setting of Colan Church, located just 200 yards from the entrance to the estate, or have a blessing or celebrant-led ceremony in the

woods where a natural amphitheatre sets the scene for an idyllic, close-to-nature affair.

At the heart of the venue, a charming barn opens onto a large terrace with an outdoor kitchen. Draped with festoon lights and benefitting from mesmerising views across the still waters and woodland, it is an enchanting setting for a reception, which can be covered by a stretch tent.

Accommodation comes in the form of bell tents and spacious Mongolian yurts complete with outdoor kitchens, firepits and barbecue facilities. Party beneath the stars, retire to your luxe canvas retreat and enjoy an extended – and wholly exclusive –wedding celebration in a heavenly hidden corner of Cornwall.

thefirhill.co.uk

Lora Barra Photography

Lora Barra Photography

WORDS OF LOVE…

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

CEREMONIES TO REMEMBER

Marking their 10-year anniversary as independent celebrants and having wed hundreds of couples in the most individual of ceremonies, Nicola Le Couteur Bisson and Denise Whitehair of Cornish Celebrants continue to make every wedding vision a meaningful and memorable reality. “After working for Cornwall Registration Service for 30 years between us, it was a leap of faith!” admit Nicola and Denise. “From our first wedding fair where we spent all our time explaining our concept of a beautiful, bespoke wedding ceremony – whenever and wherever the couple wanted it, free of all legal restrictions – to now, being sought out, as couples understand the benefits of all we are able to offer.”

Nicola and Denise are passionate about what they do. Crafting a ceremony that truly reflects every couple’s wishes, their expanding repertoire includes everything from traditional ceremonies to rituals such as handfasting, sand ceremonies, oathing stones and ring blessings. “We’re guided by our couples, and this can include the blending of religious elements and working with faith leaders,” they add.

Not only does their dedication and experience translate into tailored ceremonies, they have also built steadfast relationships and reputations within the region’s wedding industry. “Jointly, we’ve been able to expand our business offerings in licensed and unlicensed venues alike,” they explain. “It has been wonderful to be part of the ever-evolving wedding scene in Cornwall. We’ve found a wonderfully supportive network throughout our county, and we love being a part of it!” Priding themselves on pushing the envelope of possibility within weddings, Nicola and Denise have worked hard to place themselves at the forefront of the industry, “constantly innovating and bringing our innate warmth, empathy, understanding and creativity to ceremonies – which is the heart of every wedding day”.

cornishcelebrants.co.uk

STYLE

16. BE JEWELLED

Add drama to your day with jewel toned details

18. GARDEN OF DREAMS

Sleek silhouettes of silk and satin in a stunning subtropical garden

28. WED’S WISH LIST

Our edit of the latest bridal must-haves

32. LOVE-ME LOOKS

The leading looks from the latest bridal collections

38. BEST FOOT FORWARD

Step down the aisle in style in pearls, bows and colour

40. WED’S BOUDOIR

Bridal beauty tips and trends

42. CIRCLE OF LIFE

How to source your wedding rings, from vintage pieces to co-designed creations

44. A QUESTION OF STYLE

Local jewellers reveal their signature styles

47. SUIT YOURSELF

Trending looks for stylish grooms

54. AN ODE TO AUTUMN

Autumnal wedding scenes at The Lost Gardens of Heligan

60. PARADISE FOUND

Sustainable, sunshine-filled styling at Cornish Tipi Weddings

64. SOFTLY DOES IT

Elegant touches and dreamy décor for a country-meetscoastal wedding

68. FALL IN LOVE

Whimsical and bloom-filled inspiration at Trevenna

72. INTO THE WILD

Free-spirited vibes and rustic styling for a Wild West inspired wedding

FEATURES

50. YOU’RE THE MAN

Be the best man who’s remembered for all the right reasons

76. YOUR DAY, YOUR WAY

How to plan a wedding that is as unique as your love story

81. THE TREND REPORT

A rundown of the latest wedding trends

87. 10 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT YOU

What to remember, from bridal bag essentials to honeymoon must-haves

91. LET THEM ENTERTAIN YOU

Wow your guests with these unique entertainment ideas

95. LOVE AT FIRST DANCE

How to dance to your own beat on W-day

99. PARTY ON

From after-parties to lazy brunches, here’s how to prolong that celebratory mood

103. FORGET ME NOT

Capture your wedding in a way you’ll cherish forever

139. RUN AWAY WITH ME

Considering an elopement? Here’s some top tips

142. SMALL WEDDINGS OF DREAMS

Three couples share their elopement stories

REGULARS

6. BRIDAL BUZZ

What’s new, what’s hot, what’s on

53. WED’S HIP LIST

Fresh ideas to add a unique touch to your day

109. WED’S VENUES GUIDE

The ultimate guide to Cornwall’s finest wedding venues

153. GOT WED

Newly-weds share a glimpse of their day

194. NOTES ON A WEDDING

Top tips for your planning pleasure

Arianna Fenton Photography

bridalbuzz

WONDER ON THE WATER’S

EDGE

Picture this: a Napoleonic Fort sitting on a Cornish clifftop, rolling lawns and wildflower-filled gardens slipping down to the sea and a private beach for loved-up strolls along the water’s edge. Nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the Rame Peninsula with soul-stirring sea views, Polhawn Fort really is the stuff of dreams – and the venue has recently undergone a revamp in the form of a new brand identity and upgraded interiors.

The fort’s reimagined identity is inspired by the venue’s location to capture “a sense of peaceful, untouched nature, reflecting the tranquillity and timeless beauty of the natural world”. The refreshed interiors echo the natural elegance and organic charm of this aesthetic, with new furniture, linen, lighting, soft furnishings and artwork throughout. The palette complements the soft, natural tones of the brand to enhance the warm welcome given by owners, the Wicksteed family, who run the venue alongside their long-standing team of dedicated employees.

In addition, there’s a new website that beautifully showcases the venue whilst effortlessly guiding users through the fort’s various offerings, including further information on the spaces and accommodation options. A Wedding Guide hosts a selection of downloadable information packs from sleeping arrangements and recommended suppliers to travel pack, table layouts and timing guide, while a newly designed digital brochure provides all the key information in one easy-to-read document.

With its own microclimate, the bay provides mesmerising sea views and romantic sunsets year-round. From sun-kissed celebrations in the gardens and on the beach in the warmer months to cosy festivities filled with ambience during autumn and winter, you’re assured an unforgettable affair at this magical venue.

polhawnfort.com / instagram.com/polhawnfort

WEDDING SUPERSTITION

Burying a sausage the day before the wedding seems to be the new wedding craze! While the origins of this superstition are unclear – and could be related to a US tradition of burying a bottle of Bourbon – many brides are getting in on the action by burying a sausage in the hope of good weather for the big day…

FLOWER POWER

Enjoying an impressive two decades of professional floristry, George Mackay is renowned for her stunning seasonal blooms that bring character and beauty to weddings across the county.

Embarking upon her botanical career by first making flower sculptures at Falmouth Art College, George trained in a local flower shop where her love of wedding flowers was ignited. A move to London saw her design flowers for clients including The Ivy, Tate Modern and Chanel, before she moved back to Cornwall to create weekly flowers for Rick Stein’s hotel and restaurants, while also undertaking the floristry for hundreds of weddings.

Working countywide, George specialises in sourcing seasonal blooms from Cornish growers. Continually inspired by collaborating with her clients, she loves discovering the perfect flower combinations for people, tapping into her innate versatility to ensure that no two weddings are ever the same. From planning to installation, her friendly, professional and enthusiastic approach guarantees a seamless service, whether you have a detailed vision or you’re in need of expert guidance to achieve the wedding look of your wildest dreams.

georgemackayflowers.com

Dominique Bader Photography

Your coastal wedding

With breathtaking panoramic sea views, Polurrian on the Lizard offers a stunning location to make your dream wedding come true.

Lizard

bridalbuzz

INTO THE BLUE

Celebrating its 25th year, Lusty Glaze continues to captivate couples with its secluded beach wedding venue on Cornwall’s north coast. Lusty Glaze is now the UK’s first sea ceremony licence holder, meaning that ceremonies can now be conducted as far as the low tide mark. Imagine saying your vows with the Atlanic Ocean at your feet and having this breathtaking Cornish cove exclusively yours to celebrate with your loved ones

Representing an exciting change for the wedding industry in the UK, couples have previously had to travel overseas for their dream beach weddings, or to have the option of taking their vows in the sea.

“With innovation and celebration as the driving force for our team at Lusty Glaze, our new wedding licence means we are the only exclusive venue in the UK where couples can marry with their feet in the ocean,” says owner Tracey Griffiths. “There’s no other location in the UK that gives couples the opportunity to get married in the sea, with an exclusive beach just for the couple and their wedding party. We’re very proud to offer this unique experience in such a beautiful setting, which ensures weddings at Lusty Glaze are truly bespoke.”

Crowned ‘Britain’s Best Beach’ by The Sunday Times and winner of the Hitched Wedding Award 2023, Lusty Glaze is proud to push the envelope when it comes to providing a unique, world-class and wow-worthy destination wedding experience on Cornwall’s wildly beautiful north coast.

lustyglaze.co.uk

A CHARMING CHOICE

Tucked away amidst rolling countryside in a leafy corner of west Cornwall, Stennack Farm’s sense of seclusion adds to its wildly romantic charm. Just a 12-minute drive from the golden sands of Godrevy, the venue offers a rustic wedding barn and luxury accommodation amidst acres of lush grounds to enjoy loved-up wanders and quality time with friends and family, not to mention countless opportunities for photographs.

With three licensed spaces for ceremonies, you can choose to marry on the lawn immersed in beautiful Cornish countryside; on the side lawn before sweeping views across lush fields; or inside the rustic yet contemporary wedding barn. Complete with a stocked and staffed bar, onthe-day coordination and a romantic shepherd’s hut for a starry-eyed wedding night, you can look forward to a seamless and stunning wedding in this versatile, rustic-luxe venue.

Couples seeking a venue for a 2025 wedding may be tempted by Stennack Farm’s special offer prices for two-day weekend weddings for available dates in February, March, May, July, October and November. Complete with accommodation for the couple and 10 guests, there are also discounted midweek dates available for two-day weddings throughout the year. Prices range from £2,995 up to £5,995 (subject to availability and extra accommodation is available at a separate cost).

stennackfarm.com

WORDS OF LOVE…

“We’re all a little weird. And life is a little weird. And when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall into mutually satisfying weirdness – and call it love – true love.” Robert Fulghum

Sheena Olivia Photography

Sofie Michelle Photography Yeah Mike

bridalbuzz

THE PERFECT PALETTE

If you’re deliberating between your perennials and seasonals, and are still not sold on a colour scheme for your flowers, then enlist the services of Vicki Bampfield of The Woodland Atelier. Creating beautiful watercolour paintings to help couples visualise and materialise their ideas to dreamy effect, Vicki’s personalised approach promises nothing short of spectacular results. She’ll guide you on everything from colour schemes to floral design to help you hone your vision and create gorgeous arrangements, as well as assisting with preparation and on-the-day set-up of your blooms.

“My clients seem to find an artist’s impression really useful for their visualisation of florals,” she elaborates. “I absolutely love creating sketches as it helps me to plan my overall design, what I’ll use and the colour palettes that work beautifully together.” Drawing on her arts background and degree in textiles along with an innate passion and years of experience, Vicki’s bespoke floral design is perfect for couples keen to explore the range of petal-pretty possibilities available.

From dried flowers to wild foliage, pared-back neutrals and statement bright blossoms, The Woodland Atelier will work closely with you to achieve the most sensationally ‘you’ wedding florals imaginable.

thewoodlandatelier.com

TO THE SEA

Claiming prime coastal position on Newquay’s world-famous surf beach of Fistral, Oceanside is a hotel that lives up to its name by providing a lifestyle experience of the most dreamily relaxed kind. The place to “soak up an eclectic, ocean-infused, salty vibe”, the second-generation, family-run hotel is proudly independent and has been running for more than 40 years.

Presenting chic coastal style alongside contemporary rooms and a swathe of coolly styled spaces, Oceanside is a laidback and inviting seaside venue to celebrate your love. Mesmerising ocean views, exceptional service, first-rate facilities and stylish interiors make for a perfect combination for a beachside celebration, and events are tailored to match each couple’s vision.

Licensed for ceremonies, the venue can cater for up to 140 guests, with receptions accommodating up to 200 guests. The dog-friendly hotel can also sleep up to 65 guests in their boutique-style bedrooms, while the all-weather indoor wedding marquee – a silk-draped and centrally heated venue – offers a glamorous reception space alongside the convenience of hotel facilities. Alternatively, Surfrider is a light and airy setting for intimate wedding breakfasts or licensed civil ceremonies for up to 100 guests and features its own private bar and outdoor terrace to maximise those jawdropping sea views. Just imagine loved-up strolls on the sands and enjoying sundowners with your nearest and dearest as the sun slips behind the breakers of Fistral. Dreamy.

oceansidehotel.co.uk

Photography from: Clare Kinchin

bridalbuzz

VALLEY OF ROMANCE

Tucked away on the edge of a west Cornwall valley in the village of Crowan, Trenoweth House is a hidden gem – perfect for couples seeking a relaxed wedding celebration in a secluded rural idyll. Set amidst rolling farmland and ancient woodland, the venue comprises a Victorian vicarage and three cottages flanked by picturesque grounds featuring an ornamental lake and walled garden.

From cosy candlelit festivities in the cooler months to sunkissed soirées in spring and summer, the lovingly restored house provides an atmospheric canvas for ceremonies and celebrations, its original features beautifully blended with contemporary design. The rustic dining room, with its granite walls and triple height ceiling, is a stirring setting for a wedding feast, while the gardens lend themselves to lawn games, sundowners and loved-up strolls before gorgeous valley views. An ideal venue for couples keen to design their own day, you’ll be tempted to stay on and savour your sojourn in this romantic retreat and enjoy some of west Cornwall’s most breathtaking scenery on the doorstep.

trenowethhouse.co.uk

LOVE ON THE LAKE

Celebrating your love in the beating heart of nature is the bedrock of a marriage at Cornish Tipi Weddings. Situated on the north coast just inland from Port Isaac, the venue is set within a wooded valley, where a picturesque lake meets ancient woodland and meadows carpeted with wildflowers. Whether you’re dreaming of a festival-style shindig or an intimate elopement, there’s a series of wildly romantic spaces to say “I do” and celebrate in a beautifully individual way.

For those of you who haven’t yet set the date, the venue is running an offer that might pique your interest. Couples keen to tie the knot during spring 2025 can take advantage of the venue’s low season discounted prices by booking their wedding on Saturday 19th April 2025 or Saturday 26th April 2025 – a beautiful time of year for a wedding, with the venue’s renowned bluebell woods in full and fabulous flourish.

If that wasn’t enough dreaminess, Cornish Tipi Weddings is also renowned for its incredible floral bridal boats – the venue’s truly alternative wedding transport. Festooned with flowers, balloons, bunting or whatever décor you choose, gliding along the still waters of the freshwater lake is sure to be a moment that you look back on fondly for years to come. “You can take turns to row each other – or just drift on the lake surface – while a member of the venue staff rows your photographer and videographer in a second boat capturing romantic reportage of a kiss, a hug, a dropped oar,” says owner Lizzie Tom. “You’ll be able to have a few precious moments alone together and, during an intense wedding day timetable, you’ll find looking back that these are likely to be some of the most standout moments of the whole day.”

cornishtipiweddings.co.uk

be jewelled

compiled by Rebecca Matthews

1. From the trending halter neck cut to the gorgeous drapey satin, your bridesmaids will feel a million dollars in this dress by Rewritten, now available in this rich chianti shade. wearerewritten.com

2. This stunner of a ring by Stephanie Stevens features a cushion cut sapphire framed with trillion diamonds. stephaniestevensjewellery.co.uk

3. Set the mood for an opulent wedding scene with this bold and beautiful stationery by Hip Hip Hooray. hiphiphooray.com

4. Vivid hues of ruby and sapphire meet lush green foliage in these impactful blooms by From The Wild. fromthewildflorist.com

5. Finished with a crystal butterfly, these satin blue heels by Aruna Seth will add a sophisticated pop of colour and sparkle to your wedding dress. arunaseth.com

6. Hugged by golden granules, this raw emerald and diamond encrusted necklace by Ruth Tomlinson at Polka Dot Gallery will make a dazzling finishing touch to a luxe W-day look. polkadotgallery.com

7. These dainty emerald earrings by Wanderlust Life will make a fashionforward addition to a jewel toned wedding look. wanderlustlife.co.uk

8. Keep all your W-day essentials in this sleek clutch bag by Monsoon. monsoon.com

Luka Chitty

Photography

garden of dreams

Made With Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings Victoria Louise

Find paradise with tempting silhouettes and otherworldly silks amidst the subtropical beauty of Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens

Photography Liam Arthur

Styling Suzi Winter

Grace Loves Lace, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings Victoria Louise

& For Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings The Lucky Sixpence

GAIA Bridal, Bliss Bridal Gowns Earrings Victoria Louise

Made With Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings Victoria Louise

Grace Loves Lace, St Ives Bridal Boutique Earrings Victoria Louise

Location Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens tremenheere.co.uk

Photography Liam Arthur liamarthur.com

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

Hair Lauren Adams Hair instagram.com/laurenadamshair_

Model Meja Jurgelaityte

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

Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Earrings Victoria Louise

Situated

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

Available to order in sizes 4 to 32+

Large selection of ‘off the rail’ ex-sample dresses at massively reduced prices in sizes 8 to 28. Bridesmaids dresses available to order in a wide range of colours and sizes as well as mother of the bride, groom, prom, evening and cocktail dresses off the peg. OVER 400 DRESSES TO CHOOSE FROM. By appointment only. www.frocksfrills.co.uk 01872 713824

Photo: Kirstin Prisk Photography for Wed Magazine

wed’s wish list

THE FASH PACK

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

words Hannah May & Rebecca Matthews

Located in a convenient location close to the renowned seaside town, St Ives Bridal Boutique promises a beautiful bridal experience within touching distance of one of Cornwall’s most scenic settings. Brimming with the freshest, hot-off-the-runway frocks, the contemporary boutique stocks a roll call of top designers, including Grace Loves Lace, Made With Love, Hera Couture, Jenny Yoo, & For Love and Rue De Seine, offering everything from minimalist cuts and timeless style to ethereal, bohemian vibes.

Brides seeking modern glamour will adore the new gowns from Made With Love. With its square neckline, low back and exquisite 3D embroidered petal lace, Atlas is pure romance, while Alfie’s cowl back and French crepe skirt hugs the body in all the right places. Playful, seductive and with a hint of couture, the Elope collection is replete with fashion-forward designs for spontaneous brides. Take Crawford, for example, with its exposed corsetry, delicate lace and spaghetti straps; then there’s Heidi’s striking short Mikado gown with pearl detailing.

Viva, the new collection from Grace Loves Lace is equally as beguiling. With keynotes of comfort and luxury, the result is bridal wear that’s both timeless and au courant, with classic designs blending with exquisite adornments and contemporary cuts. Prepare to make jaws drop in Suki, with its luxe pearl satin, stunning cowl neckline and low back, while the long sleeves, off-the-shoulder neckline and hand appliquéd embroidery of Gigi oozes head-turning romance.

And that’s not all. The latest collection from US designer Jenny Yoo will also be arriving at the boutique soon. Boasting seriously chic silhouettes and minimalist styles with playful details in luxe satin and crepes, the hand-picked selection offers a showstopper for every bride. stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

BYGONE BEAUTY

It’s not just about the dress – a few carefully selected pieces for the wedding night and honeymoon will ensure you prolong that feeling of bridal bliss long after the big day has passed. Inspired by a love of vintage glamour, Michelle Blenkinsopp-Guild of Shell Belle Couture designs luxurious lingerie, nightwear and resort wear from a renovated 19th century chapel on Cornwall’s north coast.

Crafted from silks, tulles and French leavers lace sourced from the world’s finest makers, the sustainable garments blend intricate attention to detail with a heady hint of nostalgia and seductively beautiful design. Choose from irresistible silk pyjamas, slip dresses and lounging pants to briefs, bras, camisoles and chemises made of vintage tulle, lace and silk. Made from silk crepe-de-chine with French lace sleeves, we particularly love the Voyage Long Kimono or Room Service Kimono for an oh-so romantic addition to your honeymoon wardrobe. shellbellecouture.com

NEW LABELS LANDING

Nestled in the picturesque south Cornwall town of Mevagissey, Coastal Bridal has built a glowing reputation for its warm, friendly service and collection of gowns from bridal favourites True Bride and Très Chic. Owner Hailey Macdonald is marking the boutique’s 10th birthday by announcing some exciting new arrivals to her romantic collections.

A hand-picked selection of gowns by Louise Bentley, whose dreamy designs offer something different for the discerning bride-to-be, will be arriving in January. Launching with a ‘meet the designer’ weekend, expect “elegant silhouettes, decadent detailing, clean lines and unique fabrics” from the lauded British designer. From tulle and lace ballgowns and crepe fishtails to printed organza, brocade ballgowns and airy chiffon dresses, prepare to fall for the label’s swoon-worthy confections.

And for even greater choice amongst the rails, the boutique will also be stocking dresses from Bianco Evento (whilst continuing to stock the label’s beautiful accessories), which present gowns at an affordable price (between £480 and £680). Easy-to-wear, en vogue and elegant, the label offers everything from stretch crepe A-lines to tulle princess gowns and chiffon wrap skirts. If that’s not enough to see you hot-footing it to the boutique, there’s also a new selection of accessories including glitter and pearl veils, XXL bows and boleros; the perfect way to celebrate 10 years of success in Cornwall’s wedding industry! coastalbridal.co.uk

Jade Lee Photography

PEARL PERFECTION

Seeking a bridal bag to treasure forever? Lovingly crafted by artisans using motherof-pearl shells and a luxe black velvet lining, each clutch bag by Freya Rose is a veritable work of art – and guaranteed to elevate your W-day look. Choose from ivory, pale blue or pretty pink. freyarose.com

HOT FROCKS

Your bridesmaids will thank you for choosing Rewritten for their W-day attire. The seriously stylish brand is a favourite amongst bride tribes thanks to its comfortable and flattering dresses with trending design features such as halter necks, cowl necks, subtle side splits, capped sleeves and bell sleeves. The launch of chianti, a rich shade of red wine burgundy, in its bestselling Roma and Florence Waterfall dresses is perfect for weddings with a luxe, romantic palette, while the new black and champagne dresses are ideal for a black tie celebration. wearerewritten.com

ALL THE FEELS

Located in Nansledan on the edge of Newquay, Bliss Bridal Gowns is an emporium of bridal loveliness where gorgeous gowns meet a warm service from owner Tracy Ashton. “The boutique has been created to give every person a place to feel beautiful, confident and special,” she says. “I’m all about boosting self-esteem and celebrating your individuality.”

As well as making her brides feel completely at ease, Tracy has an impressive selection of gowns gracing her rails from designers Abella by Allure, Rebecca Ingram and Ella Rosa, offering everything from trend-led designs and boho vibes to classic romance and timeless elegance. The latest dresses from Rebecca Ingram’s new collection are sure to go down a treat with brides seeking flowing skirts, chic necklines and intricate detailing. Adeline is pure romance with its sweetheart neckline, lace illusion slit and bodice accented with beaded and sequin lace, while the soft silhouette, delicate lace and detachable tulle straps of Berkeley exudes a dreamy boho vibe. Then there’s the shimmering beauty of Yvette’s sheer organza bodice and swishy glitter tulle skirts – the perfect fit for brides seeking a swoon-worthy style with a timeless twist. blissbridalgowns.co.uk

MEMORY MAKERS

Whether you’re looking for W-day storage or gifts for your bride tribe, Stackers offers a collection of beautifully designed organising ideas, from cosmetic and jewellery bags to champagne bottle bags. Display and protect your precious wedding memorabilia in the Shoe Display Frame and Jewellery Display Frame or house all those precious keepsakes in the velvet-lined Memory Box. stackers.com

LOVE-ME LOOKS

From modern minimalism to vintage vibes, we’ve picked out the leading looks from the latest bridal collections to inspire your W-day style

words Hannah May

When it comes to your wedding look, the runways are awash with a jaw-dropping array of options. But if the task of whittling it down to just one dress seems an impossible feat, fret not. Today’s top trends can be easily categorised to match every budding bride’s individual style, making your pick of the picks a much easier and enjoyable process.

Whether you’re keen to try a range of ensembles, fine-tune your vision or discover your bridal style from scratch, you’ll find something fashionforward and oh-so you amongst the rails.

Jenny Yoo, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Modern minimal

From pristine Mikado gowns to sharp tailored elements and simple sheath gowns, today’s pared-back trends look set to stay for many chic seasons to come. Whether you envision ’90s clean-lined designs, the perfection of a custom-made suit, a piece of balletcore or a sleek dress silhouette that epitomises elegance, modern minimal bridal wear covers everything from blazer dresses and skirt suits to separates, two-pieces and jumpsuits.

Fabric is a key component, with the likes of stunning silk slips, crepe columns and satin shifts achieving the effortless aesthetic with ease. You might opt for a more contoured style courtesy of a bulbous ballgown or corset dress or even plump for a touch of transparency and/or volume with light, diaphanous skirts, sheer panels and billowing veils or capes (without embellishment).

Then there’s the all-important cut. Think flared and bias-cut skirts, square necklines, halter necks and peaked necklines, which all lend a clean and contemporary vibe to stripped-back ensembles. For something a little more whimsical and dramatic, Grecian-inspired gowns are all the rage, featuring swoon-worthy drapery in a range of sculpted, loose and ruched forms including cowl necklines, draped bodices, pleated skirts and draped backs.

Made With Love, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Jenny Yoo, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Bianco Evento, Coastal Bridal

Morilee, Frocks & Frills

Jenny Yoo, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Abella by Allure, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Bianco Evento, Coastal Bridal

Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Morilee, Frocks & Frills

True Bride, Coastal Bridal

Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Jenny Yoo, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Abella by Allure, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Vintage & retro

Harking back to bygone fashions, reimagining era wear and ramping up retro elements: today’s collections are a swoon-worthy homage to the past. Brides seeking something timeless or classic –yet with a modern twist – will delight in designers’ current penchant for ‘something old’.

The roaring ’20s are seeing a resurgence, with drop waists and flapper dress details such as fringing and beadwork headlining bridal collections. For a boho vintage look, the ’60s are also a source of inspiration, with floral embellishments, short skirts, geometric lace and embroideries, crochet, high necklines, flower crowns and cap sleeves all making a beautiful appearance.

One of the hottest features is the basque (V-shaped) waist. Accentuating the hourglass, their sharp line and close fit oozes modern glam, while their sculpted shape smacks of regal sophistication. If your dress sense falls on the romantic side, then Victoriana is resurfacing as another look du jour, which includes subtly gothic elements such as black accents alongside sumptuous lace, high collared necks, long lace sleeves and tulle mermaid skirts.

Contemporary couture

If your bridal vision is one of luxe, high fashion or en vogue elements, you’re in luck. Ranging from architectural gowns and customised outfits to party dress showstoppers and eye-catching ornamentation, today’s contemporary collections are truly head-turning.

With keynotes of volume, structure and colour, picture the likes of bubble skirts, exposed corsetry, puff sleeves, hand-finished embellishments and elaborate overskirts. Shades of blue, pink and red are popular choices, as are textured dresses blending an assortment of fabrics and finishes. Go all-out with a head-to-toe coloured ballgown with a frothy skirt or tone it down with an elegant peplum gown.

And don’t forget the details. XXL and mini bows, ribbons, pearls and luminous shades of platinum and champagne all up the swoon factor. Or for a more fun, spotlight-stealing effect, pick a party-ready outfit incorporating shimmery flourishes including sequins, mirrored details, crystals or metallic paillettes.

Abella by Allure, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Grace Loves Lace, St Ives Bridal Boutique

True Bride, Coastal Bridal

Morilee, Frocks & Frills

Abella by Allure, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Morilee, Frocks & Frills

Abella by Allure, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Romantica, Frocks & Frills

Louise Bentley, Coastal Bridal

Abella by Allure, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Boho whimsy

Laidback fashions, eco-friendly elements and ethereal styling all fall under the boho whimsy mien. Blend genres, focus on a particular theme or elevate a simple style with layering or an adornment or two for an interest-laden look.

This might mean nature motifs like floral appliqués, botanical prints and floral lace; a shot of colour such as with pastel gowns and colourful embroidery; or sustainably sourced bridal wear including recycled/ organic/Fairtrade/natural/biodegradable fabrics, cottagecore, hired, vintage and preloved pieces. This can also be extended into locally made, low- and zero-waste and dresses produced by companies with eco-friendly and charitable initiatives.

Specifically, boho whimsy lends itself to fluid and sweeping chiffon and organza, ruffles, highlow hemlines, boudoir-inspired styles, maxi dresses, tiered tulle skirts, billowing shoulder ties and streamers, and 3D and textured florals including hand-drawn blooms, daisies and rosettes. Fitted lace gowns, floaty A-lines, seductive fit-and-flares and relaxed styles (bridal rompers and playsuits, mini dresses) all fit the free-spirited brief.

Morilee, Frocks & Frills

Jenny Yoo, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Morilee, Frocks & Frills

Louise Bentley, Coastal Bridal

Louise Bentley, Coastal Bridal Morilee, Frocks & Frills

Rue De Seine, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns

Rue De Seine, St Ives Bridal Boutique

Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns

BEST FOOT FORWARD

Your bridal ensemble isn’t complete without a knockout pair of shoes. Walk down the aisle in style with our picks of the trends du jour

words Lucy Lawrence

Pearly queen

Take a bow

Bows are back, and we love how they add the prettiest of whimsy to a shoe. Choose from structured and oversized or floaty tulle, and add elegance to every step.

Timeless and classic, pearls have long been a bride’s choice, in small part thanks to the Ancient Greek belief that pearls were tears shed by the goddess of love, Aphrodite. Match your shoes to your jewellery or let your pearly shoes do the talking.

Flat and fabulous

Gone are the days when we could dance all night in skyscraper heels, so if you want to rock your day in flats or pack an extra pair of shoes for changing into, these comfy yet classy options will be just right…

Don’t

hold back

Is there a better day to go all-out and opt for a total showstopper of a shoe? Whether it’s a decadent gold hue, a huge heel, a fluffy accessory or a totally bejewelled design, it’s the perfect day to dazzle.

wed’s boudoir

Tips, trends and top products for beauty junkie brides

words Rebecca Matthews

body beautiful

Inlight Beauty is a favourite here at Wed. The innovative Cornwall-based skincare brand creates fine blends of 100% organic plant-based ingredients with award-winning results. A glorious pampering treat, the Body Butter will ensure your skin feels top-to-toe gorgeous on W-day. Infused with uplifting notes of palmarosa and lavender, the antioxidant-rich formula features jojoba oil, sesame oil, nettle, bilberry and vitamin E to deeply hydrate, nourish and ensure your skin is in aisle-ready condition. inlightbeauty.co.uk

the eyes have it

Gorgeously defined eyes have the power to lift your bridal look – and Line2Define by Trinny London is our go-to eyeliner for effortless and longwearing definition. Available in six super-flattering shades, the rich pigment and creamy, smudge-proof formula – complete with a very handy built-in sharpener – will ensure your liner looks seamless from the pre-ceremony preparations to the post-party fun. trinnylondon.com

wedding-worthy skin

The pre-wedding period is the perfect time to embark on a new skincare routine – and the Marine Collagen Powder by Sixways is a tasty way to support your skin – and hair and joints to boot. Formulated with sustainably sourced marine collagen for boosting skin health while strengthening bones and muscle, hyaluronic acid for hydrating the skin and reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and vitamin C for boosting immunity and healing your skin’s barrier, the fresh raspberry flavoured blend also includes skin-balancing zinc and retinol. Add a scoop to a glass of water every day and look forward to a balanced and radiant complexion for the biggest day of your life – and married life beyond. sixways.co

palette perfect

Pair your gown with lifted cheekbones, a sun-kissed glow and perfectly blushed cheeks on W-day – with the new Get Cheeky Face Palette from Iconic London you can achieve all three in one handy and super-luxe compact. From a soft, barely-there flush to a bold contoured look, the four finely-milled, ultra-refined powders come in a mix of matte and shimmer finishes, allowing you to create endless looks all with the brand’s lit-from-within finish. A must-have for your bridal bag.

iconiclondoninc.com

hands up

2.

From the proposal to the big moment you slide on your wedding ring, your hands are the focus of a lot of attention during this whole wedding chapter – and Joonbyrd’s newly launched trio of hand care products are the perfect products to ensure they’re looking their very best. The brainchild of dermatologist and aesthetician Dr Alexis Granite, Joonbyrd is designed to bring joy to everyday rituals with its innovative, science-backed formulas and moodboosting scents. Lavish your mitts with Palm Wild, a replenishing hand wash, Wonder-Land, a deeply nourishing hand lotion, and Confetti Sky, a luscious multitasking hand treatment. Look forward to silky-smooth and photo-ready hands which smell utterly delicious to boot! joonbyrd.com

CIRCLEOF LIFE

Choosing where your wedding rings will come from is the first step in selecting jewellery that will be with you for life

words Hannah May

Erin Cox

Safrina Smith Photography

If you’re armed with an idea from the outset on how to source your wedding rings, you could save yourselves a great deal of time, money and effort for a stress-free and successful ring-buying process. For example, do you want to repurpose your grandmother’s wedding ring or find a themed design? You might prefer to let your instincts guide you and wait to be bowled over by something that speaks to you while you’re out shopping.

Many couples will go to their favourite designer-maker to purchase ready-towear pieces, recycle heirloom jewellery or commission bands to be made or personalised to individual spec. For others, it’ll simply be a case of searching for something that fits your budget or style.

Either way, your rings’ origin story can help ensure an easy and enjoyable buying journey, allowing you to find or create something from a place of meaning and love. Here’s our guide to the main ways of sourcing wedding rings to help you get started…

Vintage or heirloom

Pre-loved pieces of jewellery can uniquely define the look, feel and significance of your rings. Whether you already have a selection of old items that you’d like remodelled into your rings, are in possession of sentimental gold that could be melted and reformed or require an heirloom band to be resized or set with a stone, sourcing from within your own pre-existing collections is a smart place to start.

Alternatively, you might simply wish to buy something already in existence, by visiting antique jewellers, attending auctions or scouring various vintage marketplaces, which will provide you with an instant one-off purchase that’s ecofriendly to boot. Wear it in its original form, have it reworked into a style that better suits or add a personalisation such as an engraving for additional you-ness.

Buy or commission

If you have an idea concerning the style you’re seeking, then sourcing should be relatively easy. Whether that means booking an appointment to view your favourite jewellers’ collections or keeping an eye out for a classic gold band, an image of the type of rings you’d like will guide you toward buying or commissioning a kind that works for you.

If you’re being led by budget, tell your jeweller what it is, as they often host archive, experimental and end-of-line sales, seconds promotions and ready-to-wear collections that are a fraction of the price of commissioned or ‘perfect’ pieces. You might also be surprised at how cost-effective commissions can be, and many designers can work within most budgets, however limited – so always enquire.

If you don’t have much of a restriction on cost, then explore all the options for buying and commissioning in keeping with your original vision or requirements –unless you find that these change throughout the ring-shopping experience. Just keep an open mind and trust the experts while doing so.

Make your own or co-design

Many designer-makers offer the chance for couples to create or co-design their rings from scratch, meaning that they’ll match your exact requirements and will be a bona fide one-of-a-kind.

In doing so, you might also ask yourself where each individual element comes from to check it fits with your criteria and ethos; for example, are the diamonds Fairtrade or lab-grown, and is the precious metal recycled? You might also want to incorporate materials and methods that are particular or personal to you, such as wood and gemstones, lost wax and sand-casting.

Then there’s the practical matter of a ring’s design, which includes the shape, fit, finish, width, metal, profile and pairing – along with how it adheres to your budget and lifestyle. Making or designing your own bands allows greater scope for personalisation because you’re hand-picking every aspect from the metal to the final flourishes (think inscriptions, fingerprints, drawings, secret stones...). The result will be a set of rings as breathtakingly unique as your love.

Verity Westcott Photography

Verity Westcott Photography

Justin Duance

Justin Duance

Erin Cox

a question of style

Pair your own preferences with a jeweller’s signature style for a wedding ring match made in heaven...

MICHAEL SPIERS: A STUNNING SHOWCASE OF EXQUISITE DIAMONDS

With stores across the South-west, Michael Spiers takes pride in their extensive collection of beautiful jewellery, especially diamonds. “We aspire for every visit to one of our showrooms to be a journey into a world of elegance and sparkle,” says Adam Spiers. “Our collection of wedding and engagement rings, adorned with exquisite diamonds, is nothing short of breathtaking. Each piece is meticulously crafted to symbolise the unique love story of every couple. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless beauty of a classic solitaire or the intricate design of a cluster setting, there is an array of options to celebrate your love.” The warm and inviting atmosphere of the showroom, coupled with the exceptional service from their knowledgeable team, ensures that selecting the perfect ring is a truly memorable and special experience. michaelspiers.co.uk

JUSTIN DUANCE: A DEEP CONNECTION TO NATURE AND NATURAL FORMS

Based in deepest West Cornwall, Justin Duance is endlessly inspired by the wild beauty of his surroundings. “Justin’s signature style is characterised by a connection to nature – in his jewellery design, but also in the techniques he uses, which draw directly from our natural surroundings,” explains Jamila Hirtenstein. “While his designs are varied, spanning from pieces inlaid with hardwoods to rings reminiscent of our rocky cliffs, it’s his sandcast rings that are most popular with brides and grooms. The sandcast rings are made by casting precious metals into beach sand; the sand not only creates a unique texture on each ring, but tiny grains are captured in the gold. As a way of personalising your ring, you’re invited to choose sand from a place that holds special meaning to you for your ring to be cast in. These unique and organic bands can then be further embellished with diamonds and gemstones (all ethically sourced), from subtle vintage diamonds set into the texture as if they have grown in place to twists on classic solitaire and eternity rings. Justin’s sandcast rings have a contemporary yet timeless feel that makes them a brilliant choice for a wedding ring.” justind.co.uk

Verity Westcott Photography

FOUND TREASURE: WAVE-LIKE SHAPES AND LIQUIDLIKE SHINE

Falmouth-based Naomi Lewis of Found Treasure designs and crafts her jewellery within touching distance of the sea – and she counts the beauty of the surrounding landscape as the muse for her signature coastal jewellery design. “My signature style focuses on coastal wave-like shapes, created through the ancient technique of lost-wax carving” explains Naomi. “Each ring is individually designed, drawing from my Cornish heritage and inspiration. I enjoy working with Ocean Diamonds and sea-coloured gemstones to bring the piece to life, each finished with a liquid-like shine. Tell me your love story and the elements that are important to you and my aim is to translate them into a unique piece that you’ll be proud to wear for a lifetime.” foundtreasurejewellery.com

STEPHANIE STEVENS: SIMPLE, ELEGANT AND INSPIRED BY THE SEA

With her studio located in the seaside town of St Ives, the ocean is an irresistible source of inspiration for Stephanie Stevens when designing and making her wedding and engagement rings. “I would say my signature style would be simple and elegant,” says Stephanie. “My most popular styles are those featuring the sea, whether it’s using an Ocean Diamond – which are hand-picked by divers off the coast of Namibia and South Africa, sustainably sourced and conflict-free – or incorporating a wave shape, engraving or a sparkling blue or green gemstone that captures the shapes, colours and mood of the ocean.”

stephaniestevensjewellery.co.uk

SVENDSEN JEWELLERY: SCANDINAVIAN STYLE MEETS CORNISH INFLUENCE

Stine Ingvoldstad Svendsen of Svendsen Jewellery draws on both the rugged beauty of her west Cornwall home and her Norwegian homeland to create her striking jewellery. “I take inspiration from both my Scandinavian roots and Cornish home to create simple, elegant jewellery, handmade from sustainable, ethical materials,” says Stine. “Minimal lines and clean geometric shapes evoke the beautifully stark and windswept landscapes of both Penwith and Norway. Angles and sharp lines play with light and reflection, creating a tantalising juxtaposition with the more sensual curves of the human form.” svendsenjewellery.com

BECCA WILLIAMS: TIMELESS AND MEANINGFUL FUTURE HEIRLOOMS

Creating original pieces from her Penryn studio, jewellery designer and goldsmith Becca Williams counts her collaborative and personal approach to design as key to her service. “Jewellery is a beautiful way to mark moments in life. I believe the jewellery you wear should feel like an extension of you, reflecting and magnifying who you are as you move through the world,” says Becca. “I specialise in taking a creative and collaborative approach to design, to gently guide and bring to life your ideas. After 15 years I’m still fascinated by the possibilities of jewellery design. I love how much meaning can be woven in, how much thought or history a single piece can hold, the connections between pieces and people, the possibilities of the materials and the process of getting covered in gold dust. Whether you’d like to alter one of my existing designs to form your engagement ring or imagine something entirely new, together we will create a piece of your dreams.”

beccawilliams.co.uk

SUIT YOURSELF

Whatever your W-day vibe, the latest grooms wear collections have an option to suit. We’ve picked out three of the leading looks to make your own

words Hannah May

MODERN

Grooms with a penchant for ultra-modern style are currently spoilt for choice, with the latest collections ranging from bright and bold to brilliantly bespoke. Colour is a key trend, with various shades of blue, green, yellow, orange, red and purple all splashed across the runways. Tone it down with washed-out pastel or earthy hues or spruce it up with statement jewel shades. Block out your entire ensemble with one eye-catching hue, or incorporate some colour with a feature or two, such as the jacket or shirt, tie and pocket square. Meanwhile, shirt and tie colour-matching is an emerging trend for grooms seeking easy modern style.

Custom-made outfits are most definitely de rigueur, with every detail from the lapel to the jacket lining, material and monogram individually picked and made to order. Opt for a personalised element or design a tailored, made-to-measure look from scratch for the ultimate in à la mode grooms wear.

Pattern is another way to contemporise your outfit, with florals, stripes, animal-inspired motifs, checks, polka dots, tweed and herringbone all making sartorial waves, while varying texture is another must-have element. From cord and flannel to velvet, linen, wool, seersucker and silk – dimensional, feel-me fabrics are the hallmark of many of today’s standout collections.

TIMELESS

Whether you choose a classic suit, source something vintage, reimagine your favourite era wear or opt for a layering of age-proof elements, designing your outfit around a timeless aesthetic is a versatile, unique and tasteful approach to your wedding wardrobe.

The tux is the timelessly chic choice du jour and an outfit that’s easy to curate to boot. Simply select – then individually style – your dream black suit and hone in on the minutiae such as fit (slim, tailored), lapel (notch, shawl, peak), buttonhole, shirt collar (wingtip, spread), neckwear (bow tie, necktie) and jacket (single/double-breasted) for a look as ‘you’ as it is timeless. Modernise with a white or velvet tux, all-black ensemble, a hit of colour, pattern – or by ditching the vest/cummerbund and going bare or keeping it perennially dapper with plain black tie.

Morning suits are also making a comeback – but as slim fitted versions and tailored lounge suits, so with more of a sleek and structured style. From blue to forest green, check, rustic tweed and vintage burgundy, play with the colour, cut, fabric and texture to design an enduring look to individual spec.

And of course, heirloom and vintage pieces smack of timeless style while also importing extra meaning, so pair your grandad’s cufflinks with a ’70s shirt, a boating blazer with tailored slacks or a dogtooth waistcoat with leather loafers. Retro colour palettes are all the rage (think burgundy, moss green, burnt orange or salmon pink), along with unique and antique accessories such as timepieces, pocket watches, fedoras, tie bars, bracelets and bolo ties.

LAIDBACK

Relaxed grooms will swoon at today’s covet-worthy collections with a highly wearable and laidback charm. Think mismatched features, eco elements and simpler styles for a wardrobe with a coolly effortless edge.

Sustainable suits are appealing to those wanting to don something both unique and more eco-friendly. This could take the form of natural materials such as linen, silk, cotton, hemp and recycled or Fairtrade fabrics; secondhand suits (your own, friends or family’s, thrift store finds), and pre-loved or rented designer suits. Consider each piece’s provenance – as well as its future use (re-wear, repurpose, donate to charity?), for the ultimate in sustainable, story-telling tailoring.

Meanwhile, mix and match styles continue to pique the interest of designers and grooms alike. Combine several key looks for an ensemble packed with interest and depth, opt for a two or three-tone colour scheme, incorporate pattern and texture for extra dimension, or focus on the details with accessories that play with function and form.

Relaxed lines and fabrics also reflect the laissez-faire approach, with silk suits or shirts, loose ’90s silhouettes and transitional wear all part of the formal loungewear vibe. You might plump for an open shirt (or polo shirt) with no tie or a bow tie, go sockless, swap the slacks for shorts or even denim, or simply ditch the waistcoat and replace your leather brogues with a pair of funky sneakers or your favourite deck shoes. It’s all about how you source, wear and pair each item to create an outfit with a quirky and carefree sense of occasion.

Carwinion House & Gardens

Credit: Katie Goff Photography

YOU’RE THE MAN

The complete lowdown on how to be a best man that’s remembered for all the right reasons words Abby Driver

Congratulations! Your best friend finally popped the big question: will you be my best man? Of course you’ve said yes; what an honour. But if you’ve never done the role before, you might be feeling a little apprehensive. Fear not, as our guide gives you everything you need to know to be the best best man ever…

The best person for the job

Before you jump in and start researching stag destinations, take a minute to check in and make sure you’ve got capacity to do a stellar job. The best man role is quite involved both in the leadup (speech writing, stag do planning, helping out with any wedding requests) and on the day itself (emotional support, timekeeping, public speaking). If you don’t have the headspace to do it well – perhaps you’ve just grown your own family or are travelling lots for work – it’s better to be upfront now. That way your groom can work out if he can work with you, or think about other options, such as having two best men to split the load.

Suited and booted

It’s not just brides who are allowed to get excited about their wedding outfit! But with so much to choose from – from traditional tuxedos to laidback chinos and brace affairs – the groom may need your help finding The One. If he does want your input on his wedding look, be honest but tactful, and full of enthusiasm about his final decision. Even if he’s got his aesthetic nailed without you, he’ll almost certainly need your help arranging fittings for all the ushers. If his ushers are dotted all over, you could help gather their measurements instead.

Party time

It’s time to send your best boy off in style with a stag do he’ll be smiling about for years to come. And while it might sound like the advice of a party pooper, trust us, planning is key. Ask the groom for a list of invitees, create a Stag chat and get everyone to agree on a date ASAP (it should be about a month before the wedding, or before). People are busy and you don’t want to run the risk that only half of your mate’s crew turn up.

Once you’ve secured the date, it’s time to think about what to do. A night out in Newquay? A weekend city break to Bristol? A once-in-alife-time lads’ holiday to Las Vegas? This will be influenced by what your stag would enjoy and what the budget is. In most cases, it’s better to pick an option that everyone can afford. Once you’ve got the basics sorted (when and where) you can think about fun extras. Make it memorable with personal twists like a theme, fancy dress and games and activities you know he’ll love and a prank or two he might not. If you do it right, you might even come away with some excellent material for the speech. Just don’t do anything to jeopardise the stag’s health, relationship or reputation!

Trusted friend

As the big day draws closer, be sure to check in with your best mate and keep an eye on how he’s doing. Nerves in the lead-up to a wedding are normal, and he’ll likely appreciate a sounding board for any worries he’s got. It’s also traditional for the best man to stay with the groom the night before, which is another good opportunity to check in on him and make sure he’s going into the big day with the best possible mindset.

Speak easy

It’s the big one – the part that can reduce full grown men to quivering wrecks: the speech. The trick to knocking it out of the park? Get prepped early. Unless you’re a professional improv standup, this is not something to do on the fly. Block out some time to think about what you want to say and then start to jot down ideas. Depending on how you work best, you might type up a draft, write out some ideas longhand or record audio on your phone.

If you need a helping hand, the internet is full of ideas, witty one-liners and even complete templates – but be sure to make it your own. Share funny memories, heartwarming stories and anecdotes that’ll have guests howling. Keep refining your speech until you’ve got a draft you’re happy with, then read it aloud to a trusted friend to make sure it hits all the right notes. Once you’ve got the final version, practise it repeatedly in the lead-up. The more familiar you are with it, the smoother the delivery. And while we understand pre-speech nerves are real, don’t have more than a pint or two for Dutch courage. A sloppy performance never goes down well!

Stand by me

When the day is finally here, it’s your job to help him get married! If you didn’t stay with him the night before, he’ll probably want you there early so you can start getting ready together. You’ll want to make sure he eats, is looking dapper and stays calm. Practically, you might need to liaise with vendors, arrange photographs and whatever you do, don’t forget the rings, lest you become a punchline to a joke.

You’ll want to make sure that you make it to the venue in good time and then stay with your groom at the altar. You might have another role within the ceremony – such as signing the marriage certificate or performing a reading –and then it’s on to the reception. Your duties here will be determined by the couple but will almost certainly involve delivering a top-notch speech and then getting the party started on the dance floor.

If all that sounds like a big responsibility, it is… but the pay-off is huge! You’ll create unforgettable memories, have tons of fun and well and truly cement your friendship forever.

wed’s HIP LIST

YOUR FACE OR MINE?

Cassie Kemp of Cornwall Caricatures guarantees to bring the fun factor to your wedding with her live illustrations, drawing portraits of your guests in a matter of minutes for a brilliant keepsake of your nuptials. She also creates caricature place settings, which are sure to add a unique and personalised touch to your tabletops. Simply provide Cassie with photos of your guests in advance and she will create a miniature caricature portrait of each guest as a standalone place setting. Your guests will have to find their seats by looking for their faces - serving as a fun-filled way to kick off the wedding breakfast! cornwallcaricatures.co.uk

LOLLY LOVE

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

What could be sweeter than pretty lollipops at your place settings? Decorated with glitter, gold leaf, rose petals, leaves and wildflowers, we love the handcrafted creations from Emily’s Lollies, which can be personalised via hand-lettered tags and finished with ribbons of chiffon, velvet and satin. Sprinkle more lolly love by gifting a bespoke treat for your bridesmaid proposals or hen party gifts. Emily’s Lollies is offering an exclusive discount for Wed readers: simply enter ‘Wed10’ at the checkout to receive 10% off your order. emilyslollies.co.uk

DRINK IT IN

Based in St Ives, the range of cocktails, gins and liqueurs by Silco will bring the flavour of the seaside town to your celebrations. Named after local streets, the cocktails include Love Lane, a luscious blend of Berry Gin and Rhubarb Shrub liqueur, and Skidden Hill, an elegant fusion of Orange Gin and English Single Malt. Bursting with zesty flavour and sunshine vibes, the Limoncello is the perfect tipple for a summer wedding, while Silco’s St Ives Gin comes in Original, Orange and Berry for a refreshing G&T with a local flavour. drinksilco.co.uk

A PERSONAL TOUCH

A gorgeous finishing touch for your tablescape, these embroidered name napkins from Gigi & Olive also make a covetable keepsake for your guests. You can even upload your own artwork, logo or wedding crest for a beautifully bespoke accent. gigiandolive.com

LOVELY BUBBLY!

If you’re seeking a fun and memorable way to serve your drinks, look no further than a living champagne wall from Bubbles Please! Picture this: your guests ring a bell and, out of the lush greenery, a gloved hand appears with a chilled glass of bubbly – or any drink of your choosing. A talking-point centrepiece, the customisable wall doubles as a drinks service and showstopping entertainment – and can even be used to serve canapés and snacks. Bubbles Please! is the brainchild of recent bride Kirsty Ferris. “I wanted to create a jaw-dropping moment for my guests – and when I couldn’t find it, I built it myself!” she says. “We exist to bring joy, surprise and that extra sparkle to your event, turning simple moments into unforgettable memories.” bubblesplease.co.uk

an ode to autumn

A rich and earthy palette meets rustic luxe styling to create a seasonal spectacular at The Lost Gardens of Heligan

photography Rabbit House Studio Photography, Louise Eleanor Photography coordination Louise Eade, Rabbit House Studio Photography styling Stargazey Décor Hire

A wedding scene rich in seasonal romance, this styled shoot sees The Lost Gardens of Heligan styled with elegant autumnal décor to create an otherworldly picture of wedding paradise.

The couple explore off-the-beaten-track spaces –from the serene Italian Garden to the majestic Ravine – to create an ambience of wild and hidden beauty.

“I really wanted to use some of the more unique and unusual parts of the gardens to showcase Heligan in a way that may not have been seen before,” explains photographer Hannah Jenkins of Rabbit House Studio Photography.

“I wanted to showcase the colours in the garden at that time of year; to immerse ourselves in some of the beautiful flora, fauna and architecture, making use of areas in the garden that really highlight intimate secluded spaces, as well as some of our key wedding locations,” elaborates Louise Eade of Heligan.

A handfasting ceremony amongst the trees evokes Mother Nature, the sight and spirit of which continues to be conveyed through the detail – from the floral

arrangements and artwork to the stationery and tablescapes. A unity candle ceremony in the Folly sees a smattering of hurricane candles, drapes, ribbons and blooms adorning the archway, which flows into the al fresco reception space.

Situated under the leafy Apple Arch, the intimate wedding breakfast is a sense-spoiling affair, with wooden furniture, clear glassware and white table settings spliced with gold candlesticks, warm brown and amber vases with sprigs of dried flowers and painted pillar candles all adding depth, texture and colour. A hanging floral and ribbon centrepiece completes the country-boho look, while a tiered painted cake creates a wow-worthy centrepiece that ties the details together.

Ethereal wedding wardrobes with a touch of glamour perfectly complement the setting. Featuring a strapless corset-style gown with floral embroidery, a stunning pair of backless gowns with plunging necklines and a fitted, long-sleeved column epitomising modern minimalism, the result is as timelessly whimsical as it is voguishly on point.

Cornish Tipi Weddings provides a dream canvas for a sustainable summer wedding scene

photography Laurie B Film & Photography

styling & coordination Curious Magpie

With its freshwater lake, ancient woodland and wildflower-filled meadows, Cornish Tipi Weddings is pure enchantment. A dream venue for couples seeking a celebration immersed in natural beauty with minimal impact on the planet, sustainability was the starting point for this styled shoot.

“We wanted the shoot to be as mindful as possible,” explains Jules Beadle from Curious Magpie, who styled and coordinated the shoot. “From the props and suppliers to the venue, everything was carefully thought out.”

“Everything we used was secondhand, borrowed or repurposed,” continues photographer Laurie of Laurie B Film and Photography. “From the clothing to the props, we sourced everything from charity shops, Vinted, car boot sales and flea markets. Even the flowers were grown in Jules’ garden and we foraged for other flowers and grasses to incorporate into the styling.”

Evoking a summer mood with its gorgeous palette of warm neutrals spliced with shades of sunshine yellow, tangerine and lush green, the al fresco tablescape is styled with natural textures, just-picked florals and retro accents for a scene rich in eclectic character.

Rowing across the still waters of the lake with her beau, the bride dons an airy chiffon dress, an embroidered bow and statement earrings. Complete with flowing locks and bright yellow heels, it is an ethereal yet playful look - perfect for a close-to-nature and earth-friendly summer wedding.

Photography Laurie B Film & Photography laurie-b.com

Venue

Cornish Tipi Weddings cornishtipiweddings.co.uk

Concept, styling & coordination Curious Magpie curiousmagpie.co.uk

Veil

Rebecca Anne Designs rebeccaannedesigns.co.uk

Newspapers Photo Press photopressuk.co.uk

Stationery

Urzan Myne urzanmyne.co.uk

Earrings Maggie Me instagram.com/maggieme_clay

Models Sofia & Daniel instagram.com/sofiacobleymodel

softly does it

The countryside meets the coast in this timelessly elegant blend of soft shades, airy textures and sandcast jewels at Polmanter

photography Checkered Photography coordination & styling Hazel Parsons, Out of the Ordinary Weddings

Blousy blooms, leafy foliage and a colour scheme blending the new neutrals with rich forest green and marine blues makes for an elegant wedding scene at Polmanter. Drawing on the rural romance of the west Cornwall setting, with its elevated views across the ocean, rustic elements fuse with modern detailing to create an understated yet chic look. From the tablescapes to the bridal wear, the design reflects the country-meets-coast setting, with sea blues spliced into the reception space adding an ethereal feel.

Shot at a variety of locations, a warmly lit arch decorated in soft drapes and stunning floristry presents an intimate indoor ceremony space, while the venue also boasts a sprawling green backdrop for sun-spilled al fresco vows on the lawn.

The conservatory provides the light and airy reception space: a clean and textured mix of exposed oak beams and granite, slate flooring and contemporary circular ceiling lights. The tables are adorned with brushed blue table runners, sprigs of foliage, brass candlesticks, mismatched champagne coupes and dark blue tumblers alongside seagrass rattan charger plates topped with sky blue napkins. Hugged by a leafy meadow, a statement cake featuring textured buttercream and flowers assumes centre stage.

Back to the bridal wear: an elegant off-the-shoulder gown with draped bodice beautifully blends modern fairytale with classic romance. Accompanied by a cream, green and frosted blue bouquet, a gorgeously loose updo with falling waves and sandcast jewellery reflects the recurring coastal theme.

Perfectly complementing both the bride and wedding scene, the groom’s light blue three-piece and dark blue tie serves as another nod to Polmanter’s prime position with views across the everspectacular St Ives Bay.

Photography Checkered Photography checkeredphotography.co.uk

Venue Polmanter polmanter.com

Coordination

Hazel Parsons, Out of the Ordinary Weddings outoftheordinaryweddings.com

Videography

Charmain Cara Media charmaincaramedia.com

Styling & décor

Hazel Parsons, Out of the Ordinary Weddings outoftheordinaryeventhire.com

Hair

Lauren Bramble Hair laurenbramblehair.co.uk

Make-up

Makeup by Najat instagram.com/makeupbynajat

Dress The Bridal Studio bridal-studio-helston.co.uk

Suit Cornwall Suit Room cornwallsuitroom.com

Flowers

Wheal Sara Flowers whealsaraflowers.co.uk

Furniture

Trevarno Event Hire trevarnoeventhire.co.uk

Cake

Red Robin Pantry redrobinpantry.co.uk

Stationery Rocha Weddings rochadesigns.co.uk

Jewellery

Justin Duance justind.co.uk

Models Maddie instagram.com/maddieastill_ Langley instagram.com/langleyhowardactor

FALL IN LOVE

Abundant florals in warm hues of peach, orange and burgundy create a sublime autumnal scene in Trevenna’s new wedding space

photography Laura Buffery Photography styling Artem Florum

Nestled amidst Cornwall’s rural heart, Trevenna provides the ‘elegantly wild’ backdrop for this styled shoot, whose new space, the Mowhay, is showcased with high-octane floristry inspired by the warm hues of autumn. The new ceremony space opens via huge sliding wooden doors into a spacious bar that looks out onto the picturesque country setting: the perfect place for free-roaming post-nuptial drinks outside.

“The inspiration came from locally grown flowers, with a particular focus on the delicate and graceful cosmos flower, which is abundant during summer,” explains stylist and florist Marina Law from Artem Florum. “Its dainty, dancing petals provide the perfect touch for the theme of the shoot with its slightly whimsical vibe.”

Focusing on two separate hanging installations for statement impact, the first was designed to float at the end of the aisle with an ethereal air, while the second presents a bolder look “that we playfully referred to as a ‘floral bomb’,” says Marina. The chandelier-like design incorporates an array of textures and colours including myrtle, preserved beech, eucalyptus and clematis, providing a wow-worthy centrepiece that’s easy to reposition elsewhere after t he ceremony.

Simple and chic tablescapes place the floristry front and centre, and feature small white bowls sprouting single stems of cosmos from kenzans: miniature pin frogs used in the Japanese flower arranging art of ikebana. The effect is one of mindful and delicate minimalism, which contrasts with the maximal arrangements and dramatic bridal wear. An alternative vision emerges outside, where wooden trestle tables are dressed with dazzling, eye-level floral displays that blend with the greenery of the rolling hills beyond.

The two-look bride is a poster girl for modern romantic whimsy courtesy of a sweeping strapless A-line with an oversized back bow, later made more voluminous with a frothy tulle overskirt and veil. Delicate tendrils of hair falling from a loosely gathered updo adorned with a floral fascinator complete the picture of pastoral romance whilst mirroring the blooms’ wildly flowing aesthetic.

Photography

Laura Buffery Photography laurabufferyphotography.co.uk

Venue

Trevenna trevenna.co.uk

Styling & flowers

Artem Florum artemflorum.com

Assistant

South Milton Flower Farm southmiltonflowerfarm.co.uk

Hair

Hair By Emma C hairbyemmac.net

Make-up

Stacey Louise staceylouisemakeupartist.co.uk

Dresses

The Ivory Lounge theivorylounge.co.uk

Model

Lola Rose Hicklin

INTO THE WILD

Evoke the spirit of the Wild West with free-spirited vibes and rustic styling

photography Kelly Paige Photography

styling Emily Rose Events Hire

The rolling meadows of the Cornish countryside and a rustic barn creates the ideal canvas for a wedding scene evoking the spirit of the Wild West in this styled shoot.

Layers of texture are key to the look: the wooden barn walls and furnishings are the starting point, over which rattan mats, neutral linens and rich, earthy-hued vases filled with dried flowers create a modern rustic tablescape. Miniature pots of cacti and horseshoes bring western-inspired character, while wax-stamped stationery and gold accents add a touch of luxe.

The ceremony arch carries the theme with its wooden frame, spectacular dried flowers and elegant drapes adding romance. Then there’s the cake: a sleek white confection topped with succulents, a shimmer of gold leaf and a cow skull motif to add an edge to the softness.

The free-spirited mood continues with the bridal wear. From bell sleeves and botanical lace detailing to swishy chiffon skirts, the dresses are perfect for brides dreaming of a wedding in a rural idyll where loved-up countryside strolls meet raucous yee-haw-filled fun on the dance floor come nightfall. Just add a cowboy hat for the ultimate Wild West bridal vibe!

Photography

Kelly Paige Photography kellypaige.co.uk

Venue

Manhay Farm Weddings & Events weddingcornwall.co.uk

Coordination & hair

Lauren Bramble laurenbramblehair.co.uk

Styling

Emily Rose Events Hire instagram.com/emilyroseeventshire

Make-up

Tiani Maisie cornwallbridalmakeup.co.uk

Dresses

Frocks & Frills frocksfrills.co.uk

Cake Ausel Cakes & Catering auselcakes.co.uk

Perched on the gently sloping cliffs above Falmouth Bay, our wonderful venue offers a relaxed space for you to gather your favourite people for a full day of unforgettable wedding celebrations abovethebay co uk @abovethebayweddingevents events@abovethebay co

your day, your

How to plan a wedding day that is as unique as your love

story

words Becci Clubb

your way

As one of life’s most exciting milestones, your wedding day is a time for celebrating everything about your relationship. The consensus among those in the industry is that the best wedding ideas are those that really represent the couple and, from bespoke menus to dazzling decorations, couples are increasingly infusing their weddings with personalised details to make their day memorable. Here are some tips to help you, as the stars of the show, put your stamp on your day and plan a wedding that’s undeniably yours…

Set the scene

Where you choose to wed will set the tone for your entire celebration, making it one of the most important decisions in the lead-up to the big day. Consider locations that have a personal meaning to you both. You could say ‘I do’ at a rustic barn venue close to your childhood homes, in the church where your grandparents were wed or at a coastal venue overlooking the beach where you first met.

Make an entrance

Arriving at the venue is a chance for you to throw even more personality into your day. You could arrive in a decked-out campervan, a horse-drawn carriage or hop out of a vintage bus. If you will be travelling between your ceremony and reception venues, you could cycle together on a tandem bike or pull up in a luxury car. Choose transport that nods towards your interests and arrive in style!

Stylish stationery

Give your guests a glimpse of the wedding magic to come with bespoke stationery suites. Use the same design style for the save the dates and invitations right through to the place name cards and table plan. Whether monochrome calligraphy or vibrant illustrations, use the design to tie your theme together.

Special ceremony

For a truly personal wedding, consider a celebrant-led ceremony. A celebrant can offer a bespoke ceremony and tell your love story throughout the proceedings; they will take the time to get to know you as a couple, understanding your values, shared memories and what makes your relationship unique. You can also include special readings and music or rituals that hold deep significance, allowing for a ceremony full of moving moments.

Personalised vows

Exchanging vows is such a poignant moment and writing your own vows will make it all the more meaningful. Speak from the heart, telling your partner how much they mean to you and what your future together looks like. Share memories, promises and reasons you fell in love.

A symbol of your love

For couples looking to infuse their ceremony with meaning, symbolic rituals are a perfect choice. From a handfasting, candle-lighting or sand ceremony, symbolic rituals represent unity and the blending of your lives. You can even involve other family members in these rituals, making it a moment of unity for everyone involved.

Hannah Wilde Photography

Furry friends

Your wedding wouldn’t be complete without including your pets! Venue permitting, your four-legged friend could accompany your bridal party as they walk down the aisle or be included in your photographs at the drinks reception. If it’s not possible for them to be there, include them in your details, like your cake topper, stationery design or in photographs dotted around the venue.

Décor and details

Let your creativity shine through with your wedding décor, whether you go for DIY decorations or work with a stylist to make your venue pop. Incorporate details that you find significant to make your wedding unique; look around your home for inspiration of what’s meaningful to you. Style your day your way and your wedding will stand out from the rest.

Flower power

Flowers can carry sentimental significance and symbolism, so select stems that mean something to you. Choose blooms that were in your parents’ wedding bouquets, that symbolise romance or that were a grandparent’s favourite fragrant flower.

Table names

For an extra personal touch, swap table numbers for names that tell a story. This could be countries you’ve travelled to together, favourite books or flower names inspired by your bouquet. Choose table names that will leave guests asking why you selected them, learning more about you and your lives together.

Fabulous favours

Forget generic wedding favours and gift your guests something that reflects your personalities and makes them smile. Whether you opt for homemade treats, like preserves and personalised biscuits, or choose something to get the party started, like alcohol miniatures and drinks tokens, choose an item you would gladly receive.

Custom cocktails

Create a signature drinks menu with bespoke cocktails. Offer a choice of ‘his and her’s’ favourites or create a bespoke beverage with a title inspired by your married surname. Complete your drinks with custom drink toppers featuring your initials or wedding date.

Food glorious food

There are so many catering options to choose from, including plated meals, sharing platters, grazing tables and food trucks. Serve dishes you love throughout your wedding breakfast to ensure the day feels authentic, including your favourite athome dinners, or be inspired by cuisine from countries you’ve visited together. Those with a sweet tooth can incorporate ice cream trikes, doughnut walls or a dessert bar. The key is to pick food that brings you joy and that guests will remember for all the right reasons.

Let me entertain you

Think of fun and unique ways to keep guests engaged throughout the day. Golf enthusiasts could hire a mini golf course, complete with wedding-themed holes. For a classic summer soirée, hire musicians to play acoustic music while guests mingle and play garden games in the venue’s grounds. If you’re a fan of interactive experiences, hire a magician or live painter to add a different dynamic to the day. In the evening, decide if you would rather hire a DJ, band or even karaoke to make your wedding the day of your dreams.

Yeah Mike I Do Film & Photos

TRENOWETH HOUSE

Nestled on the edge of a gentle valley in the village of Crowan, Trenoweth House is a Victorian vicarage, offering stunning celebration spaces and accommodation for weddings with wonderful grounds, an ornamental lake and a walled garden.

Up to 25 guests can be accommodated overnight in the main house and three additional cottages.

Particularly perfect for bespoke, relaxed, country weddings where couples can arrange their own suppliers, the dog-friendly venue can host up to 80 guests for a reception.

www.trenowethhouse.co.uk

Land Rover Hire

THE TREND REPORT

Here’s our round-up of the latest trends to help you design a day that’s as uniquely wow as it is now

words Hannah May

Though your main priority will be to make your wedding distinctly your own, you might also wish to incorporate some of today’s trends into proceedings. Whether you’re opting for a vintage-style affair, festival vibe, extended weekend or elopement wedding, one of the ways to make it both brilliantly bespoke and memorably current is to feature a few top-trending elements.

By adding a mark of modernity, you’re nodding to the date of your nuptials in so-now style. You could focus on a single aspect such as the catering or weave a number of gestures into your day, from the flowers and favours to the colour scheme. The result will be a celebration steeped in present-day personality.

We’ve handpicked a few of the most happening wedding trends to whet your appetite...

Wedding cake meadows

The food remains one of the most important aspects of weddings, with every morsel designed to reflect the couple’s love story, wedding theme and tastes. All edibles and quaffables from the welcome drinks and canapés to (every course of) the wedding breakfast and evening banquet are (quite literally) on the table when it comes to the look, flavour and meaning of your menu. In particular, it’s the sweet endnote that’s having a standout moment in wedding world in the form of cake meadows. Showcasing the cake amidst stunning floral arrangements, the effect is as romantic and whimsical as it is nature-inspired. Elevating your baked confections into a wow-worthy centrepiece, the idea is to reflect a field of wildflowers, blossoming garden or wild woodland scene, combining florals and cake for an all-out sensory fest. Picture cakes with hand-painted florals, sculpted floral icing and buttercream flowers dressed with winding foliage, petals and buds – all sitting atop or amongst the most striking floral displays.

The Natural Cake Company

The Natural Cake Company

Ausel Cakes & Catering Peppermint Studios Peboryon

Ausel Cakes & Catering

Chris Armstrong Photography

The Natural Cake Company

Maximalism

The ‘more is more’ movement continues to reign supreme, favouring a bright and eclectic mishmash of styles to achieve a uniquely over-the-top feel to your day. The main hallmarks are an abundance of detailing and décor, from bold colour schemes and clashing prints to textured elements and statement lighting. Think rainbow, monochrome, neon and jewel tones spliced with disco balls, leopard print accessories, balloon installations, a champagne tower, striped furnishings, neon signs, statement florals (hanging or aerial arrangements; floral archway or moongate), and a smattering of giant potted palms and trees. Then there’s the detailing, such as decorative china, patterned linens, kitsch stationery and signage, ornate lampshades, antique vases and eye-catching aisle-ways, flooring and backdrops or walls.

Colour, colour, colour

Colour is a key component of current and future wedding trends, but it’s not all about being bold and bright. Though attentiongrabbing palettes are de rigueur, the trick is in the combination and application of colour. Layering, ombré, monochrome, pattern and playfulness all lend interest and individuality to the final look. Specific colour schemes that are proving popular include pastels, paredback neutrals, electric brights and jewel and wine tones. Meanwhile Pantone’s 2024 colour of the year Peach Fuzz looks set to inspire weddings for many seasons to come, with the latest expert predictions citing ‘rich, earthy and organic’ hues and ‘new classics’ including deep blue-violet, orange, gold, purple, grey and leafy greens as next year’s top contenders.

Wedding weekends

If a drawn-out love affair with your beau/friends/family sounds like a not-tobe-missed prospect, then an extended wedding will allow you to revel in your company and sustain the celebrations for days on end. Whatever kind of wedding you’re organising – from elopements and intimate gatherings to large-scale events – two or three-day parties are a modern lust-have. Typically starting on the Friday afternoon or evening (or day before the wedding if you’re planning a midweek event), weekend weddings aim to involve guests in the preparatory phase whilst maximising the opportunity for mixing ahead of the main event. This could take the form of a day or night out/in (hike and lunch, wine tasting, afternoon barbecue, evening supper, cocktail hour, movie night) followed the next morning by breakfast or even an activity, depending on the schedule of your wedding day (sunrise/ sunset ceremonies and after-parties are more trends to consider!). The day after, newlyweds can host anything from a farewell brunch to a day of activities or relaxation (pool party, garden games, surfing trip, boat excursion, bike tour, food truck picnic). Much of this will depend on your venue and location, so think about how to utilise and make the most of these and the region’s stunning natural landscapes.

Photography Laura Rosemary Photography Styling Knots & Kisses / Flowers Holly Bee Flowers

Photography Maxi Photography Styling Knots & Kisses / Flowers Brompton Buds

Photography Melanie Barnfield / Styling Knots & Kisses / Flowers Emma Hewlett Floral Design / Hair accessory The Lucky Sixpence / Cocktails The Fizzy Pheasant

The Perfect Place to Celebrate

We like to think we’re Cornwall’s best-kept secret. The Fir Hill is a secluded, wooded estate, just above the Porth Reservoir only four miles from Newquay. With indoor rooms and versatile outdoor spaces, alongside yurt & bell tent accommodation for your guests, we’re ideal for larger summer celebrations or Wedfests over two or three days; Please

The Fir Hill is also perfect for cosy winter celebrations or smaller elopement or intimate wedding parties. We’ll help make your festivities exactly what you want them to be.*

Eco-friendly weddings

Sustainability is (quite rightly) still very much a thing. And it’s easy to make your event greener, even if you’re not able to eradicate its carbon footprint entirely. Simple swaps and additions can both save money and make a longlasting positive impact. With virtually every element, you’ll be able to find ways to make more environmentally sound choices. For example, you might consider sourcing your dress/suit secondhand (vintage, charity shop, preloved outlets), refashioning old garments (family heirlooms, favourite pieces) or buying, hiring or borrowing outfits made from recycled, Fairtrade or biodegradable fabrics. Your food and flowers can be locally grown or harvested and donated to a homeless shelter, hospice or care home after the event. Research greener alternatives and the provenance of things, borrow, salvage and hire your décor, furniture and props, and arrange the most earth-friendly disposal of items possible (gifting, recycling or repurposing).

Scentscaping

It’s not all about the aesthetics. Along with the way your wedding looks, sounds and feels, couples are treating all the senses with a particular emphasis on the aroma. Introducing: scentscaping. An often overlooked aspect of the day, fragrance has become one of the leading modes for a memorable, personalised and top-trending wedding. A multi-layered approach starts with the couple’s scent (perfumes, body washes, lotions, balms) and filters into a host of features such as the flowers (bouquet, confetti, floral arrangements), food and drink (barbecues, coffee bars, edible flowers, open fire feasts), favours (wax melts, scented sweets, chocolates, handmade soap) and ambient venue space (reed diffusers, candles, room mists, botanical palets). Just remember to blend your notes and keep it on the more subtle side to avoid clashing or overpowering aromas.

Mindful weddings

Couples are increasingly focusing on the wellness of their guests along with the intention and meaning of their day, adding rituals, activities and atmospheric touches for a wedding replete with mindfulness. You might want to infuse the likes of sound baths, spa services and group yoga sessions into your schedule or space, or simply plant thoughtful details that show you’ve considered the individual needs and spirit of your guests. By incorporating moments, experiences and spaces that will invite or fulfil a sense of awareness and nurturing – such as adding worship or meditation to outdoor ceremonies, quiet zones for younger/ older guests, plant-based menus or having a grounding ‘first look’ before your ceremony – you can create a celebration that’s personal, present and poignant.

Laurie B Film & Photography

iStock.com/mictian iStock.com/DmitriyTitov

iStock.com/Artsyslik

10 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT YOU

10 items for a bathroom basket

Don’t let any inconveniences detract from the joy of your day. Pack a basket of items to leave in the bathroom so your guests can keep enjoying the day without worrying about anything.

Lipstick

Hairspray

Perfume

Needle and thread

Mini hairbrush/comb

Mints

Tissues

Cotton buds

Plasters

mirror

Sanitary products

Safety pins

Deodorant

Hair grips

Hairspray

Plasters

Blotting paper

Perfume

Hand cream

Blister patches

10 items for an outdoor wedding

Let’s face it – an outdoor wedding in this country can be unpredictable at best, and that’s all part of the fun! Whether you end up with sunshine or drizzle, remembering to pack a few key items can make all the difference in ensuring everyone embraces the great outdoors.

1. Suncream

2. Insect spray

3. Flip-flops

4. Mini fan

5. Sunglasses

6. Rugs

7. Umbrellas

8. Cooling spray

9. Hand sanitiser

10. Deodorant

10 things to pack for your honeymoon

Whether you’re off for a sleepy staycation in a cosy pub or an adventure of a lifetime across the continents, don’t forget your essentials to make sure you’re prepared and ready to celebrate!

1. Passport (check what name you booked under – married or maiden!)

2. Suncream

3. Swimsuit

4. Copies of insurance documents

5. Driving licence

6. Chargers

7. Medication

8. Insect repellent

9. Paper copies of documents

10. Lingerie

10 questions to ask a venue

10 ideas for a bridesmaid’s gift

Your bridesmaids are there for you every step of the wedding journey, sharing in your joy and helping to alleviate the stress, so it’s only natural you might like to gift them something special to say thank you. We’ve picked out some budget-ranging options, from finishing touches for their bridesmaid outfit to pieces they’ll use time and time again.

1. Clutch bag

2. Necklace

3. Shoes

4. Dressing gown

5. Beach towel

6. Bracelet

7. Earrings

8. Hair ribbon/scrunchie

9. Keyring

10. Stole/scarf

10 sleep aids for a restful night

Sleep can evade even the calmest of brides, with to-do lists and wedmin swirling through the brain. Set your sleep routine off to a snoozy start with these slumber-inducing items.

1. Calming sleep spray

2. Candle

3. Fresh linen

4. Hot drink

5. Lavender scent

6. Magnesium lotion

7. Blackout blind

8. Soft lighting

9. Cool pyjamas

10. Meditation app

Choosing your wedding venue is a huge decision. Make sure you’re prepped on the party-planning essentials by asking some of these logistical questions.

1. What is the capacity for a ceremony and reception?

2. Does the venue have a ceremony licence?

3. Is the venue exclusive use?

4. What is included in the price?

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

6. Will there be a wedding coordinator on-site in the lead-up/on the wedding day?

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

8. Is there the option to provide your own alcohol, and does the venue charge corkage?

9. What day and time can you have access from and until?

10. Who is responsible for the clean-up afterwards?

LET THEM ENTERTAIN YOU

It’s not all about the dance floor. Delight guests of all ages with these unique live wedding entertainment ideas

words Rebecca Matthews

Going big with your entertainment is a surefire way to make your wedding a day to remember for your guests. From stilt walkers and fire acts to strolling champagne servers, here are some ideas for infusing your day with fun and frivolity while keeping your guests thoroughly entertained to boot.

SPRINKLE YOUR CELEBRATION WITH THEATRE

There’s nothing quite like theatrical performers for adding a sense of spectacle to your day. Whether it’s stilt walkers or synchronised swimmers, dancers or jugglers, let them strut their stuff during cocktail hour to spark conversation and get guests in the party mood.

BOOK A CARICATURIST OR LIVE PAINTER

A live caricaturist, painter or fashion illustrator will captivate guests while capturing the moments and characters that make your day. You might commission a painter to bring the scene to life on canvas for you to keep, opt for guest portraits or caricatures which double as wedding favours – or maybe even both. Guests will love to mill around and marvel at your chosen artist at work.

Scarlett Entertainment

Scarlett Entertainment

Cornwall Caricatures

I Do Film & Photos

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT WITH FIRE AND LIGHT ACTS

Raise the entertainment stakes with a mesmerising fire act. From solo acts to groups, a fiery entertainer will create a thrilling and magical atmosphere as darkness falls – and the evening fun revs up!

EMBRACE A VINTAGE VIBE

Bring the beauty of a bygone era to your festivities. Think Great Gatsby-inspired hosts and hostesses for a 1920s feel, Marie Antoinette dancers in ballroom-worthy costumes, Edwardian characters and garden games, or Regency era entertainers for a Bridgerton mood.

GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR FOOD AND DRINKS STATIONS

Why not bring the fun to the food and drinks service?

Roaming live canapé tables, strolling champagne dresses or even roller skating hostesses will ensure your food and drinks are served in unforgettable fashion. And there’s nothing quite like singing waiters bursting into song for surprising your guests and leading a singalong to remember!

DAZZLE YOUR GUESTS FROM ABOVE WITH AN AERIALIST

Bring an elegant and mesmerising element to your day by booking aerial silk performers to perform during the drinks reception or as a warm-up to the evening party. You could even have champagne poured from an aerial hoop to create a wowworthy moment as guests arrive.

HIRE ROAMING CHARACTERS TO MINGLE WITH YOUR GUESTS

Hiring actors to mingle with your guests is a great way of enhancing your theme or making a nod to your favourite things. Whether it’s celebrity lookalikes, comedy paparazzi or striking characters such as flower head hostesses, your special guests are sure to bring a talking-point feature to your celebrations.

Scarlett Entertainment Scarlett Entertainment Scarlett Entertainment

Scarlett Entertainment

Scarlett Entertainment

Scarlett Entertainment

Scarlett Entertainment

The 2 Lisa’s

The 2 Lisa’s

The 2 Lisa’s

Scarlett Entertainment

Our experienced and acquainted team will work alongside you at each and every stage of the planning process to ensure that ‘no stone is left unturned’ and that every element of the occasion is just how you have imagined. The Rosevine Features 15 apartments, studios and a 4-bedroom self-catering house, altogether sleeping 36 adults and 19 kids, providing ample space for you and your nearest and dearest to enjoy a couple of days celebrating and relaxing all together.

love at first dance

The first dance: a dread for some, a delight for others. Either way, thinking about it in advance will ensure your celebrations start on the right foot

words Hannah May

Whether the thought of the first dance fills you with terror or excitement, there’s a range of options to suit how you wish to tackle the newlywed rite of passage.

Ask yourselves a few questions to get started, such as how do you envision it happening? What will work best for you as a couple and the type of wedding you’re planning? You might want to have a little fun with it or flip the tradition on its head – whether that’s including a posse of your loved ones, incorporating your child guests or even getting your beloved pooch involved.

Then there’s the music. Choose a song that reflects your personalities: don’t conform to tradition or select the track that’s popular at the time if it doesn’t suit who you are as a couple. You might prefer a classic ballad, a symbolic replay of the record that your parents danced to on their wedding day or your all-time favourite get-on-the-dancefloor party track. An acoustic or live performance, vocals by a talented friend or even a karaoke session can make the first dance a unique and utterly ‘you’ event to relish and remember.

Alternatively, you might want to ditch the first dance entirely and replace it with a new tradition or party-starting event to individually suit. We’ve rounded up a range of ideas to help you shimmy your way into married life to your own beat...

Impromptu

One of the most popular choices, the impromptu first dance is usually the result of selecting a special song (or not) and simply rolling with it. Some couples practise a few of their moves in advance, but generally it’s a case of seeing where the music and mood (and bubbly!) takes you. The endnote is a more relaxed, ‘nonperformance’ approach, signalling the start of the party with the mass migration of your guests onto the dancefloor as the tempo builds or switches into party mode.

Choreographed

A routine of some sort marks a more dedicated response to the first dance. You might have studied performance art, take regular salsa classes together or just love to move, so a choreographed dance will give you the perfect chance to show off your skills and repertoire.

Go romantic with a ballroom dance (rumba, anyone?), pay homage to your favourite film or musical by replicating one of its iconic dance numbers (think Dirty Dancing, Pulp Fiction, Grease, Footloose and Saturday Night Fever), learn the steps to a dance song (Macarena remains as fun as ever) or employ a professional to help you create a routine that suits your ability and personalities.

Group dance

If you’re keen on taking the pressure off while upping the fun factor, then a group dance is the easiest solution. This could be a family affair (you two and the kids/your parents/entire extended family), the newlyweds and the bridal party or all the guests – and can be impromptu, choreographed or even take the form of a dance-off. The newlyweds could still have a centre-stage moment or performance within the dance, or blend into the troupe entirely.

It could also involve an outfit change, entertainment element (such as acrobatics, circus act, live band or light show) or a complete mash-up of music and dance styles, starting with a slow couple’s dance before blending into an upbeat family boogie followed by a group R&B routine with your gal pals (you can’t beat Beyoncé’s Crazy in Love, for example). Variations on group dances include line dancing (either instructor-led or with a screen playing instructions), a ceilidh or a folk dance. Ask your guests to submit their favourite song or to learn the moves to a pre-selected dance and give your DJ a list of well-known moves-in-the-lyrics songs such as YMCA, Time Warp and the Conga.

Professional dance performance

Employing a group of professional dancers can double up as the first dance and wedding entertainment, and can take place alongside or instead of a couple’s dance. You could join in for the duration, toward the end or be the opening act – it’s entirely up to you. The great thing about this option is that you can pick dancers and music to suit the theme and feel of your wedding. For example, if your wedding has a retro, rock and roll vibe, ask your dance act to perform the bunny hop, jitterbug or hand jive – and ask your guests to learn them if they’d like to partake in the performance (giving them the element of choice takes the pressure off them too!). There are so many options, from belly dances and ballet to Bollywood, Argentine tango and Latin styles.

Family or friend

If the groom isn’t thrilled (or remains terrified) of the first dance or you’d like to honour another special person instead of – or as well as – him, then switching partners is another option. Many brides begin the dance with their spouse before the father of the bride cuts in, but this could also be her brother, mother, sister, best friend, grandparent or child. When it comes to the first dance, do exactly what you want – dance The Loco-Motion with your mum before launching into a Disney megamix with your daughter and ending with Cha-Cha Slide en masse! You could also congregate a few couples to join you, such as your siblings and their partners, mothers and fathers, aunties and uncles, and so on.

Champagne shenanigans

Champagne-based events are gaining popularity as a fun first dance alternative. The couple still briefly take centre stage and mark the sense of occasion but do it in unique (and dance-free!) style. With each guest clutching a glass of bubbly, you can make a grand toast to you and them whilst you saber a bottle of champers and say a few choice words to kickstart the celebrations. Or you might prefer the thrill and spectacle of pouring a champagne tower before handing out glasses to your guests to signify that the party has officially started!

Performers

Interactive performers are all the rage, and paying someone else to take the spotlight eases the stress and ups your enjoyment levels to boot. Think about your venue and how to utilise and maximise its space and facilities. For example, plant aerialists in a giant hat tipi, stage a theatrical performance in a large garden, add artistic swimmers to a pool or scatter professional storytellers around a bonfire. Depending on the vibe or theme of your day, you could employ all kinds of acts, from fire-breathers and belly dancers to asking the local kids’ dance school to perform to a song or two. So long as there’s music and movement, you can class it as a ‘first dance’ experience!

You could even rope your guests into a performance of some kind, whether by asking in advance and tapping into their skill sets and passions (musician friends, magician family members, tarot card readers...), or by hosting an impromptu group singalong or dance. Consider a line dance, ceilidh or dance-off/competition, which is a particularly cute icebreaker and dance floor opener if you involve any children at your wedding.

Opt out

It’s important to remember that the first dance, like so much else in modern weddings, is optional. If for any reason you can’t or don’t want to have one, then don’t. If you’re concerned about leaving that section out, then employ a professional dancer or musician to take to the stage in your absence or simply invite all your guests onto the dance floor for the first song of the evening. If it’s nerves that’s prohibiting you, wait for the party to be in full swing for a first dance interlude once you’ve warmed into the party spirit or swap the first dance for a last dance at the very end of the night (or even surprise your spouse by saving it for the privacy of your honeymoon suite!).

Sofie

Photography by Grant Lampard

Photography by Joseph Allen-Keys

PARTY ON

From small-hours gatherings to lazy brunches the day after the nuptials, here’s how to prolong that celebratory mood

words Hannah May

After-parties have never been more en vogue. With wedding days extending from sun-up to sundown – or lasting entire weekends (or even longer) – the opportunity to celebrate well beyond the ‘I dos’ allows couples to unashamedly revel in and share their newlywed status with those they love the most.

Memory-making and people-pleasing is what it’s all about. From private gentlemen’s club style afterparties for a select few to dancing outdoors under the stars and arranging a schedule of fun, adventure, activity and flavour the following day, wedding afterparties are decidedly all the rage.

We’ve looked at the latest trends and asked a group of planners and just-weds to share their stories to help you plan the wedding pre or after-party of your dreams...

Welcome party

Prime your guests for the string of parties ahead and set the tone with a pre-wedding party. The perfect

icebreaker and way to relax ahead of W-day while amping up the sense of occasion, guests can meet and greet ahead of the main event, and couples can freely schmooze to ensure they’ve adequately welcomed everyone – especially those travelling from afar.

“For weddings where guests have to travel and stay overnight, it is always nice to organise a gathering the day before,” says wedding planner, coordinator and consultant Laura Dalton from Kept Weddings (keptweddings.co.uk). “It’s a great way for the wedding couple to be able to say their hellos and catch up with people prior to the wedding day – meaning on the day itself, they can spend more time together as a newlywed couple.” This could be anything from a simple sit-down meal or drinks reception at or near the venue (or even your house) to a dining experience or evening out.

“Think about how to have enough time to connect with everyone and relax,” says Imogen, whose wedding at Cornish Tipi Weddings combined foodie events with activities that took in the venue and

local area’s scenery. “We had a welcome barbecue at the tipi field where we were camping on the Friday evening, a lake swim on the Sunday morning then an afternoon at the beach and evening dinner back at Cornish Tipi Weddings. It meant we really got to see everyone and the wedding wasn’t such a blur.”

Chloe and Devon planned a wedding weekend at Kilminorth with 75 of their guests staying on-site in cottages with hot tubs and glamping tents. “We had exclusive use of the venue for this time and tried to personalise the whole weekend to all our favourite things,” explains Chloe, who commenced their celebrations with a Friday night extravaganza. “We hired The Fishermen’s Chippy food truck who came and catered for more than 100 guests,” she says. “We played table tennis and had a golf awards ceremony as Devon arranged a golf tournament in the day, with prizes and trophies handed out. It was lovely to catch up with friends and family before the big day.”

Big day shindigs

Start the wedding day with a group breakfast or

Tara Statton Photography

ask friends and family to join you for a pre-wedding activity, such as a cliff path stroll, surf, sea swim or spot of meditation. Depending on the time and location of your ceremony, you could arrange a drinks reception ahead of the vows or even a lunch. Think about when your guests will be arriving and provide them with a burst of welcoming entertainment and refreshments to help them to engage with the party spirit, such as with an early cocktail hour, saxophonist or vocal performance. Post-ceremony, start the party section of the day with a variety of options from garden games and a live band to drinks, canapés, a dance or circus act, magician, live portrait or landscape artist. Tailor the party to the space, people, feel and time of day.

That might mean starting with a sunrise sea shanty singer and finishing with an orchestral fireworks finale.

“A band or DJ is a must for creating an epic after-party,” announces Laura. “They bring life to the music and read the room to keep people on the dance floor all night long. Side entertainment such as a photo booth and professional dancers – along with props – add to people’s energy and the pictures. Think glow sticks, customised glasses and maybe even a limbo stick!”

If you’re keen on building an after-party into your schedule, check the venue will cater to it with regards to space, noise restrictions and licences. Many are primed for after-parties with separate spaces or

buildings. Kat and Kieran chose Pencarrow for its versatility and party-ready facilities. “Our night ended with dancing to our band, then donning ‘silent disco’ headsets and leading everyone into the woods to the Nightcap Bar. We danced around the firepit under the disco ball into the wee hours before falling into our tipis in the glamping field,” says Kieran.

For Jess, Kingston Estate provided the perfect place for her and Joe to party with those who wanted to prolong the merriment. “We moved into the secret Undercroft Bar, which was a hidden gem and the last surprise for our guests, where we kept the dancing going until the early hours,” she reveals. When the

Thomas Frost

Photography

Yeah Mike

Yeah Mike

Yeah Mike

“Please yourselves with a so-you afterparty you’ll reminisce about for many smileinducing years to come”

night is over, you might fancy a final dance under the moon, a nightcap in the bar or cup of hot chocolate and candlelit bubble bath back in your suite before slumber beckons.

The day-after, after-party

Once the day is done, an increasing number of couples are opting for a day dedicated to keeping the celebratory atmosphere alive. At Kilminorth, Chloe and Devon’s families set up a barbecue and pool party, which was followed by an eclectic mix of events. “We had the best day talking about the wedding. We played cricket, ate wedding cake and then finished with a silent disco until the early hours,” reminisces Chloe.

You might wish to stay at your venue for a day of lounging, food and drink. Offer activities there or nearby for guests to enjoy such as clay pigeon shooting, lawn games, a boat trip, country roam and picnic; or provide further on-site entertainment in the form of a jazz quartet and tea party.

Laura encourages couples to get creative once the formalities are over to fully immerse themselves in those final hours of celebrations with loved ones. “If your guests have opted to stay for another night, you could finish off the celebrations with another party in the evening with drinks, more dancing or something a little bit different like bandeoke, barn

dancing or maybe even a murder mystery,” she suggests.

Aim to utilise the time and space to maximum benefit while considering the needs and whims of all guests present and, of course – and most importantly –please yourselves with a so-you after-party you’ll reminisce about for many smile-inducing years to come.

forget me not

From photography and film to audio guest books, capture your wedding in a way that you’ll remember forever

How will you look back on your wedding?

Because when the memories start to fade, you’ll be wishing for ways to reflect, relive and rejoice in your day and the many loves it contained.

The wedding album is, of course, a key memento to treasure and leaf through for years to come. But rather than relying on the album as the sole family heirloom and keepsake of your day, an increasing number of couples are embracing the trend toward new and multiple ways of recording their wedding. You’ll be able to listen to, look at and touch precious remnants and moments of one of the most love-filled days of your life.

From artist’s impressions such as landscape paintings, venue illustrations and guest portraits to audio guest books and the most spectacular forms of photography and videography, here’s our lowdown on the latest ways to record and materialise your matrimonials...

Photography

The photo album remains the seminal way to record weddings, to capture the essence and allow you

words Hannah May

to look back at your day for the rest of your lives. Whether you favour a traditional set of images or are open to the possibility of experimental and innovative forms of photography, the images of your love will remain the primary portal to your memories.

Your choice of photographer may have no bearing on the day, for example – you simply love a particular style; or you might want to pick someone with experience of shooting at your venue or your type of wedding, such as those specialising in elopements or outdoor weddings.

The best way to decide is to match your vision with theirs – and to discuss your requirements and their ability to achieve them. From there, fine-tune the pragmatics and aesthetics to tailor a package that will best represent you and your day, for an album you’ll excitedly turn to time and time again.

Trends-wise, the latest host of techniques are going back to traditional methods whilst ensuring weddings are captured in the most creative, unique and beautiful of ways.

Photographer Thomas Frost (thomasfrostphotography. com) lists these as a “film photography revival”, whereby film is incorporated into the images for a “nostalgic feel and a romantic, organic quality that digital sometimes can’t replicate”. Along with candid, unposed shots and post-wedding photo shoots (which could include outdoor adventures during micro/ elopement weddings or in the weeks following the event), Tom is a fan of flash photography and motion blur.

“I’m loving the use of creative flash techniques paired with intentional motion blur to add a sense of movement and energy to the photos. It brings out the fun, spontaneous moments of the day,” he enthuses.

“Also – the legal use of a drone,” continues Tom, who is a fully qualified and insured drone pilot. “Drones give such a great perspective of the location or venue, especially in Cornwall where the land and sea meet.”

Special effects are another consideration. “Smoke bombs are great for adding colour and drama,” he

Thomas Frost Photography

says. “Back-lit rain or bubble spray is perfect for when it gets dark – and makes the most of the rain if it is falling!” Tom offers hybrid services including photography and videography, along with content shooting, which he describes as “a very useful extra that couples like. They can have the raw footage, or we can make a reel or edit into longer form.”

“I am also adding hybrid photography, where I film a little bit while photographing, so they also get a motion picture of the day, in the same style as my photos,” says photographer Verity Westcott (veritywestcott.com) who expertly blends the use of Polaroids and 35mm photography with all-day photography, “which is a really cool way of getting different styles of images on your wedding day”.

Content creation

Gathering photos and videos from your day and transforming them into Insta-ready uploads, content creation involves hiring or assigning someone to produce social media that you can share with both your close and wider circles soon after the wedding.

Shooting on a smartphone, the result is a collection of instant, short-form content: highlight reels, stories and galleries that showcase the events of the day for anyone wanting to see quick and (largely) unedited results.

“Content creators are the massive thing at the moment,” says Verity, who offers it as an add-on to her photography and videography services and shoots on iPhone and DJI 3. “If you’re considering this, I would suggest speaking to your photographer about it first,” she continues. “A lot of us offer this anyway, so we can include it rather than having another person there with a camera.”

Audio and alternative guest books

For a fun and alternative take on traditional written guest books, audio versions are emerging as another wedding day must-have for couples keen for something ‘more.’

In short, guests speak into a phone to record their message to you, after which the compilation will provide a keepsake that can be digital or physical (a CD, USB drive or even a vinyl record). Alternatively, video guest books work in a similar way as audio, via a video kiosk that records your guests’ messages, which are then edited into a compilation film.

You might also opt for a written or physical guest book, and if you’re looking for a creative and idiosyncratic version in keeping with your theme and personalities, there are plenty of ideas. These include the use of Polaroid cameras and photo booths, fingerprint trees, wall art, pebbles, a wishing tree, puzzles and games such as Jenga, message in a bottle, photo books, vintage postcards, a coffee table book and vintage typewriter. Repurposing or reusing old, treasured or everyday items that you can display in your marital home is another idea, from your surfboard or snowboard to your guitar, canoe, paddleboard, globe, table, piece of art or

Verity Westcott Photography

Verity Westcott Photography

Alan Law

Photography

Thomas Frost

Photography

Your dream wedding awaits at Kilminorth.

A stunning dog-friendly venue in the Cornish countryside. Offering exclusive hire, Kilminorth is ideal for couples seeking a bespoke experience, whether for a three-day retreat, a two-day gathering, or an intimate one-day celebration.

Celebrate with family, friends, and even your pets, enjoying facilities like a heated outdoor pool, bar, and tennis court across a beautiful 32-acre estate featuring meadows and woods perfect for wedding photos.

With 14 self-catering cottages available, some with hot tubs, you can extend your celebrations with loved ones. Limited dates for 2025 and 2026 are still available, so secure your dream wedding today!

Book a viewing at kilminorth.co.uk or request a virtual tour if you’re further away.

EmilyStevePhoto

Laura Buffery

Thomas Hare Photography

photo frame. And if you don’t fancy any kind of guestbook, commission an artist to create a ‘live’ physical keepsake of your day such as a venue illustration, landscape painting or portrait sketches.

Videography & film

Wedding films have come a long way over the years, with a plethora of options available to couples today, from drone footage to music videos. “A well-made wedding video can encapsulate the essence of the event, from vows and speeches to laughter, reactions and the overall atmosphere,” says Sam Strachan from Timeless Weddings (timelessweddings. co.uk).

“Choosing the right style depends on your personality as a couple, your wedding theme and the type of memory you want to create from your special day,” he continues, before describing the range that videographers can shoot and edit into a bespoke film.

Along with short-form videos (five to 10 minutes long) that are ideal for sharing online, Sam cites cinematic storytelling as a popular trend. “This mimics the look and feel of a movie with dramatic angles, slow motion and emotional music for a final product that feels polished and artistic,” he explains. Then there’s documentary footage: “this is capturing the day in a raw, real-time format, recording everything as it happens without staging or heavy editing, focusing on authenticity”.

For a more classic format, videographers can create a traditional film in chronological order or make it a more personal and narrativedriven piece with the inclusion of interviews and voiceovers. If it’s more of a retro vibe you’re after, then shooting (such as with old film cameras) and editing techniques can be employed to produce a nostalgic video “to give the footage a grainy, timeless feel, evoking memories of earlier decades”.

For a more modern film, you could opt for a music video approach, which “incorporates candid and staged shots, edited to the rhythm of the song”, explains Sam. “It often emphasises fun and upbeat moments from the day.”

However you wish to replay your day, trust the person recording it. “Choose a photographer or videographer who takes the time to understand your unique love story,” implores Tom. “Each couple’s journey is different, and your wedding visuals should reflect that. Allow them creative freedom – when couples are relaxed and trust the professionals, it’s easier to capture authentic moments.”

Verity

Nestled amongst four acres of

winery, Knightor is

Cornish wedding venue that exudes rustic charm

Albion Row 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

BEACH & WATERSIDE

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

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 midcelebration surf and dancing in the sand under the stars – this little cove offers romance in spades for sealoving 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

Dan Ward

Photography Alexa Poppe

Photography

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 offers idyllic subtropical gardens, contemporary interiors and delicious menus featuring the finest seasonal ingredients. Take your vows in The Bay, where floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a private balcony gazing out to the gardens and 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 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

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, The Vean 18

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 63 across the estate

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

Polhawn Fort

Nestled in a tucked-away corner of the Rame Peninsula with soul-stirring sea views, Polhawn Fort really is the stuff of dreams. The Napoleonic Fort sits on a Cornish clifftop with rolling lawns and wildflower-filled gardens slipping down to the sea and a private beach for loved up wanders at the water’s edge. Available for two, three or four day weddings, take your vows beneath the vaulted ceilings and twinkling lights of the grand Napoleonic hall or head outside for a sun-kissed garden ceremony in the summerhouse 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

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

Arianna Fenton Photography

Jessica Apps Photography

Atlantic Hotel

Seemingly perched on the edge of the world, the Atlantic Hotel offers enchanting panoramic views across the North coast. Inside, elegant details including Art Deco designs, marble floors and crystal chandeliers all marry together to create refined opulence on your big day. Drinks on the front lawn is the perfect spot to watch the fiery sun sink into the ocean at sunset, before dancing the night away in the Grand Ballroom, large enough for 500 guests. Boasting luxurious accommodation, spa and pools - and located just a stone’s throw from Newquay’s best beaches - the Atlantic offers a place of romance as unique as your love story. atlantichotelnewquay.co.uk

Total capacity: 500

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 91 rooms and suites

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

Beachside

Overlooking St Ives Bay midway along Hayle’s three glorious miles of golden sands, Beachside is perfectly positioned for a scenic and beautifully individual wedding on the Cornish coast. One of only a small cluster of licensed beach ceremony venues in the county, the venue presents couples with a sandy space beside the sea to say “I do” as well as an indoor setting for ceremonies and receptions in Coast, a modern and versatile restaurant with sweeping views across the bay. From intimate celebrations to exclusive hire, you can spend the day or entire weekend hosting friends and family, thanks to the plentiful accommodation options on-site as well as camping and caravan pitches. weddingsbeachside.co.uk

Total capacity: 100 day, 180 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 113 units (6-berth) & 87 pitches

Dog-friendly: No

Hotel Meudon

Hidden in a lush valley between Falmouth and The Helford, Hotel Meudon is a veritable subtropical paradise by the sea. Boasting exotic gardens, a secluded beach and luxe interiors, weddings here are steeped in style and natural beauty. Exclusive venue hire allows couples full and private roam of the hotel and grounds, including the bedrooms, drawing room, restaurant, The Lookout and Freddie’s Bar. Food is a swoon-worthy affair, with a team of award-winning chefs cooking up a seasonal and homegrown feast tailored to your tastes. Imagine spending your first moments as a married couple walking amongst giant flora from across the globe and strolling across the sands of Bream Cove. You might choose to spend a blissful few days relaxing in the gardens, enjoying treatments in the Sanctuary Suite and supping al fresco drinks at Freddie’s Bar in this sublime secret spot. meudon.co.uk

Total capacity: 150 exclusive-use

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 150 on an exclusive-use basis

Dog-friendly: Yes

Thomas Frost 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

The Gannet

Located in Carbis Bay, The Gannet lies a short distance from awardwinning Blue Flag Carbis Bay Beach and just a mile from St Ives. As the sister hotel to Carbis Bay Estate, ceremony and photo opportunities on 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 fine wines and local ales and spirits. The 16 individually designed bedrooms offer a blend of 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

Oceanside Hotel

Located conveniently close to Fistral Beach on Newquay’s north coast, Oceanside Hotel is a relaxed, contemporary and comfortable beachside retreat, where couples can say “I do” within touching distance of the ocean. Choose from the indoor wedding marquee, a glamorous silk draped space, or the Surfrider, a light and airy setting with views across the rolling waves of the Atlantic as well as its own bar and outdoor terrace. From elopements to evening receptions for up to 200 guests, from laidback beachside barbecues to sit-down dinners, this versatile venue combines a relaxed vibe with top-notch service for a so-you wedding by the sea. oceansidehotel.co.uk

Total capacity: 140 day, 200 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 27 rooms for up to 65 guests

Dog-friendly: Yes

House is a historic unforgettable weddings

Surrounded by ancient exclusivity where a www.scorrierhouse.co.uk

Katie Goff Photography

Scorrier

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

parkland and gardens, Scorrier affords complete fairytale wedding tailored to your every whim.

Images (from top): Paul Keppel Photography and Mollie McAusland 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

The Old Quay House Hotel

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

Fowey Hall Hotel

Sitting high above Fowey, Fowey Hall Hotel boasts awe-inspiring panoramas 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 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

Una St Ives

Nestled in a leafy setting close to Carbis Bay and St Ives, Una St Ives offers rural seclusion within touching distance of the beach. The resort comprises a series of architect-designed lodges and villas, a light-filled restaurant, which opens onto a sunny terrace and kitchen garden, and impressive leisure facilities including an infinity pool, gym, sauna, steam room and spa treatments, as well as a stunning outdoor lido. You can look forward to a relaxed event tailored to your vision, whether it’s signature cocktails or toasting marshmallows around the firepit. A feast of Mediterranean flavours inspired by the wood-fired Gozney oven promises to be a highlight, while the fabulous facilities will ensure an extended celebration to remember. unastives.co.uk

Total capacity: minimum 40 - maximum 70 adults. Up to 20 additional evening guests

Civil ceremonies licence: No

Guest accommodation: Individual lodges & villas can be booked

Dog-friendly: Yes

Nick Bailey Photography

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

Exclusive coastal wedding venue in Cornwall

Nestling halfway down a Cornish clifftop overlooking the spectacular Whitsand Bay, Polhawn Fort is a historic hideaway for exclusive weddings and events. A world of its own where breathtaking beauty meets welcoming warmth, we invite you to feel right at home.

RUSTIC & COUNTRYSIDE

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

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 accommodation is pretty special too! thegreencornwall.co.uk

Total capacity: 140

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 42

Dog-friendly: Yes

Kilminorth

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 three-night 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

A sprawling 32-acre country estate on Cornwall’s south coast, Kilminorth is a veritable wedding village, marrying wild meadows, majestic woodland and landscaped gardens with beautifully restored cottages. The perfect setting for an extended celebration, the cottages offer original features, modern layouts and luxe touches alongside hot tubs, a tennis court and outdoor swimming pool. Whether you envision a small gathering in a cottage or a weekend extravaganza with vows in the paddock and a marquee reception, it’s an idyllic and secluded setting to create the celebration of your wildest dreams. kilminorthcottages.co.uk

Total capacity: 250

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 63 across 14 cottages

Dog-friendly: Yes

Grant

Lampard Photography

Noah Werth

Film & Photography

Nancarrow Farm

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Cornwall, this picturesque venue provides a naturally beautiful setting for weddings and events. Set against a backdrop of idyllic meadows, fruit orchards and rambling roses, this organic working farm offers the dream countryside location. Settle into their lovingly converted barns and accommodation for up to 30 guests in a mixture of rustic yet luxurious bedrooms before holding your ceremony amidst the rustic charm of the restored hay barn. Enjoy a delicious feast in the Oak Barn situated overlooking the millpond and flooded with natural light. Your feast will include the very best seasonal produce from the Kitchen Garden alongside their very own organic beef and lamb, cooked over woodfire and their home-produced Wilder Wood’s Charcoal. nancarrowfarm.co.uk

Total capacity: 130 day, 160 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 26

Dog-friendly: No

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

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

Polmanter

Set amidst sweeping countryside on the edge of St Ives, Polmanter is an award-winning holiday destination, boasting far-reaching views across the Atlantic coast and moors. Available for weddings from September to May, the versatile venue is ideal for couples hoping to stamp their wedding with an individual touch, offering a contemporary restaurant space for ceremonies and receptions and acres of grounds for loved-up strolls and celebrations. Luxury self-catering properties and plentiful camping pitches means your guests can stay on and enjoy Polmanter’s facilities, including tennis courts, mini golf and spa treatment rooms - not to mention the many beautiful beaches and coastal walks nearby. polmanter.com

Total capacity: 110 day, 200 evening

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 20 in self-catering properties plus camping Dog-friendly: Yes

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

Trenoweth House

Tucked away on the edge of a west Cornwall valley, Trenoweth House is a hidden gem – perfect for couples seeking a relaxed wedding celebration in a rural idyll. Set amidst rolling farmland and ancient woodland, the venue comprises a Victorian vicarage and three cottages flanked by picturesque grounds featuring an ornamental lake and walled garden. From cosy candlelit festivities in the cooler months to sun-kissed soirées in spring and summer, the lovingly restored house provides an atmospheric canvas for ceremonies and celebrations designed entirely by you. With so many breathtaking locations on the doorstep, stay on and savour your sojourn in this romantic retreat. trenowethhouse.co.uk

Total capacity: 80

Civil ceremonies licence: No

Guest accommodation: For 25

Dog-friendly: Yes

Where the only limit is your imagination

Coastal Barn wedding reception and ceremony for up to 220 guests

Luxury B&B accommodation

Stunning outdoor ceremony temples

Wild flower meadows

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 wellstocked 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

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 stone walls and twinkling beams of the barn or beneath the arbour overlooking the pond. Delight your guests with carefully curated menus brimming with local produce and 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 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

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 part of Cornwall a while longer.

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 Fir Hill

Set amidst a leafy estate comprising 60 acres of meadows, orchards and wooded valleys with elevated views across Porth Reservoir, The Fir Hill offers scenery, tranquility and away-from-it-all charm. The estate is a versatile and characterful canvas for exclusive-use weddings, from smaller to medium-sized events during the cooler months to large-scale celebrations from April to September. Couples can marry at nearby Colan Church or have a blessing or celebrant-led ceremony in the woods where a natural amphitheatre sets the scene for a close-to-nature affair. A large terrace with views across the water and woodland makes an enchanting setting for a reception, which can be covered by a stretch tent. Party beneath the stars, sleep in a Mongolian yurt or bell tent, and enjoy an extended celebration in this hidden corner of Cornwall. thefirhill.co.uk

Total capacity: Approximately 150

Civil ceremonies licence: No

Guest accommodation: 13 yurts & 4 bell tents plus camping

Dog-friendly: Yes

VENUES GUIDE: MANOR HOUSES & CASTLES

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

Scorrier House

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

Trelowarren

Described as “a jewel in the palm of your hand” (by Daphne Du Maurier, no less!), Trelowarren has a palpable sense of romance. Hugged by ancient woodland in a tucked-away corner of the Lizard peninsula, the open parkland, breathtaking views and beautiful house make a stirring setting for a wedding. The 15th Century, Grade I listed manor house can seat up to 100 guests in its historic Gothic chapel. From the elegance of the Drawing Room to the rustic charm of the Stable Event Space, you can design a reception to suit your vision and may be tempted by the delicious, seasonal food from the on-site New Yard Restaurant. There’s five-star accommodation on the Estate, while The Walled Garden Spa makes the perfect spot for some pampering. trelowarren.com

Total capacity: 120

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: 3 rooms in the main house & 20 cottages around the estate

Dog-friendly: Yes

Tim Woolcock Photography

Boconnoc

One of the most beautiful private hire estates in the South-west, Boconnoc offers luxuriously appointed guest accommodation, multiple ceremony and celebration spaces and award-winning architectural renovation. Secluded in 100s of acres of Cornish countryside, anything is possible, from a church ceremony followed by a wedding breakfast in elegant Georgian reception rooms to a rustic Stable Yard ceremony, followed by drinks at the Fernery and dining in the Dorothy Garden. Every Boconnoc wedding is different, but the one thread that runs throughout them all is that the outside world disappears, giving you and your guests a truly unique experience to remember for a lifetime. Exclusive hire of the entire Boconnoc Estate is available for one, two and three-night weddings with accommodation for up to 54 people. The venue is also available for luxurious, intimate weddings. boconnoc.com

Total capacity: 100 & up to 240 with a marquee extension

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes, multiple locations & church on-site

Guest accommodation: Up to 54 across the estate Dog-friendly: Yes

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 purposebuilt 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

Emily Jayne Weddings

Nick Walker Photography

The Curries

Taylor & Porter

Mark Shaw Photography

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

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 blossomcloaked 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 to al fresco celebrations under the stars, 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

Katie Goff

Photography

Lizzie

Churchill Photography

 Dan Ward

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 wildflowers and a glorious lake at its heart. A gorgeous canvas for a relaxed, backto-nature wedding, take your vows to the sound of birdsong in the willow and canvas pavilion or opt for a dreamy ceremony beside 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

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

Debs Alexander Photography

Olivia Rossi Photography

Olivia Rossi Photography

Steven Prebble Photography

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

Treseren is a Georgian gem with beautiful light and proportions, a former Mine Captain’s residence, rich in history and architectural features. Specialising in small weddings, Treseren is an award-winning wedding venue that offers beauty, romance and a real sense of occasion, all within just a 10-minute drive of some of North Cornwall’s most iconic beaches. The beauty of the house is matched by its private and generous grounds, creating a truly peaceful retreat to relax and immerse yourselves in a bespoke wedding experience, enjoying fine dining, bespoke cocktails and luxury accommodation all under the magic of a Cornish sky. Weddings at Treseren are much more than a one-day affair, with weekend weddings for up to 22 including a three-night stay, providing quality time together to celebrate such a special moment. Offering a unique blend of five-star service in a home from home atmosphere, Treseren weddings are small in scale but big on style. treseren.co.uk

Total capacity: 22

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 12

Dog-friendly: Yes

Lower Barns

Bursting with colour and personality, this brilliantly characterful elopement venue sits in a tucked-away spot close to the south coast, offering privacy, style and romance by the bucketload. Specialising in elopements and intimate weddings, there’s plenty of special spaces to say “I do”, including the Wed Shed – a vibrant wedding ‘chapel’ in the gardens –and the gorgeous Lounge with its open fire, as well as The Shack, with its cosy fire and twinkling lights overlooking the garden. Tuck into a barbecue in the bloom-filled garden, a sit-down dinner in the Lounge or a relaxed feast in The Party Shed where you can sink into a sofa by the wood burner and toast your union with ‘bring your own’ tipples. Spend the night in one of the cosy and creatively designed suites and reflect on your big day while stargazing in the hot tub. lowerbarnswedding.co.uk

Total capacity: 20

Civil ceremonies licence: Yes

Guest accommodation: For 18

Dog-friendly: Yes

Ash Powell Photography

Ash Powell

Paul Massey

Verity Westcott Photography

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

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

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

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?

• 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 in the lead up and on the day?

• 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

run away with me

Fancy slipping away quietly and doing your day your way? As elopement weddings continue to grow in popularity, we look at the tips and tricks to make it really wedding-worthy

words Hannah May

Thinking of eloping? Runaway weddings are all the rage, and it’s no wonder why: short or nonexistent guest lists, the option to wed wherever and however you choose with practically no restrictions or people pleasing required but yourselves.

However, though you may wish to throw all caution to the wind in favour of total spontaneity, elopements do require a bit of pre-thought. From the venue and décor to the photography, food and ceremony, going small still has a substantial checklist to tackle. But by considering each component with only your whims and needs in mind, you’ll design the dreamiest day that’s as loved-up, stress-free and unashamedly all about you as your heart’s desire.

Two wedding planners share some tips as we delve into the main things to consider when planning an elopement wedding...

Put your needs first

“This is one of the main reasons you chose to elope in the first place!” says Rebecca Green from Rebel & Anchor (rebelandanchor.co.uk). Pick the fundamentals – the time, place and type of wedding – with only yourselves in mind and add the final details and

flourishes as you please. If you’re planning on having a few guests then you’ll need to factor them in, but the self-serving motto remains the same.

Along with the when and where, the other main things to consider here are the itinerary and order of service. Rip up the rulebook and randomly mix it up or stick to a traditional schedule to enjoy every element together as a couple. You might want to start your day with a sunrise ceremony and photo shoot followed by a loved-up picnic or brunch or opt for a midwinter wedding cosying up at a coastal retreat together. Don’t like the idea of a three-course wedding breakfast?

Go out to your favourite restaurant for dinner. Hire a private chef, cook a barbecue or arrange a takeaway delivery – the choice is entirely yours.

Whatever the weather

“Don’t worry about the rain – your photos will look stunning and your experience will be incredible, whether it’s sunny or rainy,” says Sophie Walker from Sophie Walker Weddings (sophiewalkerweddings. co.uk). Though it’s important to think about the season with regards to venue choice, budget and preference (imagine the wild romance of a Christmas wedding for two!), be mindful that you can’t control the weather. Having said that, you can consider and

mitigate it during the decision-making process (such as indoor contingencies for an al fresco ceremony) – and simply make the most of it during the event (backlit shoot in the rain, anyone?)

The gist is to embrace every aspect of your elopement – including the weather. And the great thing about elopements is that you can change, add or ditch things last minute, as it’s entirely ‘your’ day. So if there’s a deluge post-ceremony, reschedule your photos for the golden hour once the rain stops, or even for the next day. Or, if you wake to ominous skies, arrange a spontaneous first look or pre-ceremony shoot with your photographer instead.

Alternatively, if you’re gifted an unexpected window of light, take full advantage and postpone other events until later in the day in favour of a trip to the beach or countryside (with or without your photographer). Simply allow your desires to drive the itinerary along with your responses to what the day delivers to maximise your surroundings, opportunities and precious time together.

Find local suppliers

“Book people you really get along with, as they’re the ones you’re going to be spending the day with. They’ll

Thomas Frost Photography

also know all the secret spots!” says Sophie.

Elopements are all about forging relationships, since it’ll be just the two or only a few of you present – so anybody else that’s involved will need to fit into the couple/group dynamic and structure of the day. For example, there’s a selection of photographers who specialise in elopements and would have worked at your venue before – which is key to finding familiar and comfortable ground between you, them and the venue, along with any other suppliers that they may already have rapport with. As elopements/micro weddings are small in number, this will help you to establish a harmonious, unobtrusive presence, allowing you to focus on each other and completely immerse yourselves undistracted into your day.

Local suppliers can also help with strategy and on-theday coordination, as well as give indispensable advice about how to plan and execute your vision in the best, most budget-friendly, personality-packed way. Unlike you, they’ve done it all before, so trust their expertise and knowledge.

It’s about you

“Get rid of the ‘what will Mum and Dad think?’ from your brain; they will likely just be genuinely happy you’ve married your love,” says Sophie.

Make choices that reflect you both while perhaps nodding to all the other loves in your lives – whether they’re present or not. And remember, there are other ways to involve people even if you’re removing them from the main event itself, such as by posting a

piece of wedding cake, sending the photos/wedding film or hosting an after-party or post-wedding gathering to celebrate with your nearest and dearest.

If you do want to invite a select few, then choose those you couldn’t bear to get wed without, as opposed to those you feel obliged or pressurised into asking. This might include a parents-only invite, close family only or one friend each. Alternatively, you might want to personalise the moment further by including a beloved pet, so take the liberty of arranging for your beloved hound to be ring-bearer, choose a venue with a farm, book a horse-drawn carriage, or, if you’re having a home/back garden wedding, your furry friends will already be in attendance!

Wear what you want!

“Go full bridal if you want to, go sequinned jumpsuit or dress comfortably – whatever you want!” says Rebecca. “Do really let your style shine through; you don’t need 100 people to make you feel amazing.”

This speaks to the freedom of doing exactly what you want – especially the dress code. Whatever makes you feel the way you want to feel on your W-day – wear (and do) it! And if you want one/two/three dress changes too, then go for it!

You might want to keep it casual and cosy for most of the day, donning a dress and suit for the ceremony and photo shoot before swapping back to your sweats to feast and lounge in front of the fire. Or you might choose formal wear as part of a timeless and traditional approach and to enhance the sense of occasion.

If other people will be there, you may ask them to don something in keeping with your venue/theme/schedule (think adventure elopements), request relaxed attire or ask them to wear their glitziest outfits. Again, there’s no ‘done thing’ here and the onus is always about pleasing yourselves first.

Yes, book the cake

“Even if it’s just for the two of you, you can always have it as a midnight feast!” reminds Sophie.

Without guests (or with just a few), it will be the little events and details that linger in your memory long after the event, so some extra attention to these will ensure an ambience-filled and unforgettable elopement. Don’t feel you have to deprive yourself of any feature because it’s ‘just’ the two of you, from the flowers and cake to the table settings, entertainment and first dance.

Create an atmosphere and space that you can truly revel in, whether it’s a sand-between-the-toes ceremony and beach barbecue, fairy-lit woodland celebration, mini festival with food trucks and decorated tipi or a romantic treetop escape nestling in front of a wood-burner.

Incorporate any and everything that will achieve your vision, from a harpist or live vocalist to full-day catering services, jaw-dropping décor, a magician, portrait artist, photo booth, champagne tower or chocolate fountain. Whether two or 200 people will be present, you deserve to celebrate your day, your way. Just don’t forget to book the cake!

Thomas Frost Photography

Joel and the boys by Checkered Photography

small weddings of dreams

We meet three couples who said “I do” to an elopement in a beautiful corner of Cornwall

“An elopement was the perfect way to commit to each other without feeling the pressure”

Jeneah and Sophie embraced the elements at their wildly romantic BoHo Cornwall Elopements wedding

What made you choose an elopement?

“Both Sophie and I are very passionate about the ability to show each other our love without having a large wedding,” explains Jeneah. “Even a small wedding can easily snowball into something bigger than anticipated. We both envisioned our day to be small and intimate, sharing what we feel is important – our love we share for each other. After a lot of discussion, we felt an elopement was the perfect way to commit to each other without feeling the pressure that comes with organising a bigger wedding. We both have large families and friendship groups and choosing who to invite seemed like an impossible task. Therefore, we completely removed the pressure and did what we felt was right for us individually and as a couple.”

What drew you to BoHo Cornwall Elopements?

“I have always dreamed of a wedding in a castle, while Sophie always envisioned a wedding near a beach. BoHo Cornwall Elopements offers a perfect combination of both of our dreams. Our first date was a weekend in Cornwall, so it holds a special place in our hearts. Being a same-sex wedding, it was extremely important for us that the venue we chose held the same values as us; this was highlighted on their website and instantly made us feel we’d be comfortable and welcomed. Once we spoke to the team, we knew it was the perfect location for us. BoHo has the most beautiful castle that’s yours for the duration of your stay, and there’s a beach nearby where you’re able to have photos taken.”

How did the day pan out?

“From the moment we woke up, the staff were on hand to make sure we had everything we needed. Our ceremony was intimate, with only the registrars, witnesses and ourselves present, and everyone went the extra mile to ensure our day was simply perfect, making us feel welcome, accepted and special. We carried handmade bouquets and took our vows in the candlelit castle. After windswept photographs on the coastal path and shoreline, we tucked into fish and chips on the beach. It was totally relaxed. We were given and shown nothing but care throughout our stay and everyone went above and beyond.”

What stood out for you?

“The fact that we had never met these individuals, yet they were a part of one of the most important days of our lives sounds crazy, but they made us feel like we had known them for years. The feeling of pure joy and care shown towards us individually and as a couple showed throughout. After our individual vows were read out, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room – that showed us the people involved in BoHo’s weddings truly believe in love and are genuinely happy for the people who choose to get married there.”

What are your words of advice for couples considering an elopement?

“Do it! You won’t regret it. Your wedding day should be all about you, don’t feel guilty about doing what’s best for you. We asked family and friends what they would have done differently at their weddings and the feedback we had was often ‘I wish I got to spend more time with my wife/husband’ or ‘we would have made it more intimate and not felt we had to invite everyone.’ Elopements can be tailored entirely to you. We truly believe elopements are the way forward and more people should know that you don’t need to travel to Vegas to elope.”

Photography Thomas Frost thomasfrostphotography.com

Venue BoHo Cornwall Elopements bohocornwall.co.uk

Hair So-Buff so-buff.com

“If I could describe a perfect wedding, I’d describe ours”

Donna and Robbie stole away to the seclusion of Lower Barns for a vibrant elopement with their children

What made you choose an elopement?

“After first meeting as teenagers, we got together at the age of 21 and engaged at 22. At 26, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis,” says Robbie. “Donna stood by me through each stage of the disability progression and bouts of depression. With her support, I began writing poetry; I’ve now published three books and we run a support group together for people in similar situations. It’s been a painful yet magical journey which shows the power of love can really help you through the darkest days. When it came to getting married, we decided we wanted something simple and intimate; a wedding where we could just focus on ourselves and the children. We are a united four, and we wanted to make sure that our wedding had minimal worry so we could simply enjoy the little moments as well as the big ones. We felt an elopement was the best way to achieve it.”

What drew you to Lower Barns?

“We looked for elopements near our home so we didn’t need to travel and Lower Barns stood out straight away. The unique setting and the beautiful grounds are incredible but the quirky touches added a sense of enjoyment, adventure and really made it stand out for us. Once we met Janie and Mike, the owners, we completely understood the package. They are fantastic, fun hosts and immediately made us feel comfortable. It’s a big commitment trusting someone with your big day but they really had it covered - food, drink, choices of cake and flowers, photography and space for the children and dog. The décor of the venue was also outstanding. It was exactly what we were looking for, so it was a perfect choice for us.”

How did the day pan out?

“We had exclusive use of the venue, with our own party shed and his and hers adjacent bungalows with matching hot tubs. The wedding day began with Mike delivering a lovely breakfast to our bungalows. Thanks to the September sunshine, the ceremony could take place outside in the gardens. Later in the day, our wedding breakfast was made to each of our individual tastes and was incredible – even the kids left clean plates! – and they made us a vegan cake, which tasted amazing. Sipping champagne in a hot tub on a warm September night under the stars is not something you get to do often; it was surreal.”

What stood out for you?

“One of the biggest things was the fact that Janie and Mike had thought of everything. If we had forgotten anything, they already had it. Mike was on hand with perfect timing, two minutes before the ceremony, to fix my buttonhole because I didn’t have a clue what I was doing. Everything was perfect; I couldn’t fault the weekend at all. If I could describe a perfect wedding, I’d describe ours.”

What are your words of advice for couples considering an elopement?

“You’re only planning on having one wedding and you want it to be special. We didn’t want a heap of hard work planning a massive event around everyone else’s schedules, using multiple establishments and venues, and we didn’t need 100 people to make our day special. There were only four of us in a secluded spot away from the stress and I wouldn’t change a thing. Our elopement wedding had everything we needed, I would recommend it to anyone. It was perfect and we are so grateful to Janie, Mike and all the staff at Lower Barns for making this dream a reality for us.”

Venue & photography Lower Barns lowerbarnswedding.co.uk

Flowers The Bloom Room thebloomroomflorist.co.uk

Hair Almond Bennett Hairdressing instagram.com/ hairbyalmondbodmin

“It was more beautiful in person than we could have dreamed of”

Emily and Sade combined the intimacy of Fallen Angel with the magic of Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens for a unique al fresco wedding day

What made you choose an elopement?

“We chose an elopement for several reasons. We have a large family, spread all over the place, and it would have been stressful trying to arrange a date, time and location to suit everyone. We also work long, stressful shifts and we never do anything that is just for us, so we felt this was the right thing to do,” says Emily. “Ultimately we decided to suit ourselves, as our wedding day is about us.”

What drew you to Fallen Angel and Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens?

“I came across Petite Weddings UK, which led me to Fallen Angel in Mousehole and Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens. We fell in love with them before we ever actually visited in person. It felt intimate and special, and even though Tremenheere is an outdoor venue, there is a wet-weather alternative so it has everything we could have possibly wanted.”

How did the day pan out?

“We got ready at our accommodation in Mousehole, taking in the outstanding sea views as we had our hair and make-up done. Our photographer Verity was kind enough to be our chauffeur to Tremenheere, so we had some extra time to get to know her. Having no family or friends or anyone else we knew there with us, Verity was the rock that held it all together and was a real friend on the day.

We were utterly blessed with the weather. Just as we reached the pagoda for our ceremony, the sun broke through and we had glorious blue skies and warm sunshine. The views are simply stunning. It looked, and felt, like a tropical paradise, just for us. It was more beautiful in person than we could have dreamed of.

Back at Fallen Angel, we had a three-course meal, which was incredible. Then it was just us, and we had time to just sit and reflect. Verity had taken some Polaroid pictures throughout, so we had a perfect, instant memento from the day.”

What stood out for you?

“Once we had decided on eloping, we’d built up a picture in our minds of how we wanted the day to go. We didn’t want any stress or any strict timings to follow, we just wanted a calm and easy-going day. This is exactly what we had. Nothing was rushed or felt forced. It was the best thing we could have ever done for us; having our day solely for us made everything feel even more special.”

Do you have any words of advice for couples considering an elopement?

“I think anyone considering an elopement should absolutely go for it. Our best advice would be to make early contact with your suppliers, especially if everything is being planned via email and online, and to keep in regular contact with them. We were lucky that we had such fantastic people and companies to work with, and they made everything seamless and stressfree from the moment we booked. Also, don’t feel guilty about doing your day your way!”

Photography Verity Westcott veritywestcott.com

Wedding package Petite Weddings petiteweddings.co.uk

Venue Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens tremenheere.co.uk

Hair & make-up KH Bridal khbridal.com

Flowers Lafonia Flower Company lafoniaflowercompany.co.uk

Catering Indulgence Catering indulgence-catering.co.uk

THEMenagerie WEDDING

PHOTOGRAPHY

Hi! I’m Maryann, an award wining photographer based in Cornwall with a love for adventure, romance and nature. I capture unique natural moments in stunning settings. Forget akward poses - I focus on candid relaxed shots that tell your love story.

Photos: Louise Eleanor photography

Photo Paul Keppel photography

Chocolate Fountains

www.thevelvetdaisy.co.uk

helen@thevelvetdaisy.co.uk 07790692221

www.situweddings.co.uk

alexa@situweddings.co.uk

Photography

Accessories

Tiaras and Vines 07581 414920 tiarasandvines.co.uk

Beauty

Lauren Bramble Hair laurenbramblehair.co.uk

Bridal wear

Bliss Bridal Gowns 01637 851163 blissbridalgowns.co.uk

Coastal Bridal 07476 099959 coastalbridal.co.uk

Frocks & Frills 01872 713824 frocksfrills.co.uk

St Ives Bridal Boutique 01736 695775 stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

Two For Joy Bridal 07767 646337 twoforjoybridal.co.uk

Catering, cakes & bars

Ausel Cakes & Catering 07590 610128 auselcakes.co.uk

Beautiful and the Feast beautifulandthefeast.com

Beetham Food 07790 640610 beethamfood.co.uk

Crafty Cakehole 07948 206639 craftycakehole.co.uk

The Good Food Catering Company 01840 211118 thegoodfoodcateringco.co.uk

JRO Bar & Events 07938 839313 jrobarevents.co.uk Kernowforno 07437 530509 kernowforno.co.uk

Peboryon 07534 617059 peboryon.com

Red Robin Pantry 07446 030259 redrobinpantry.co.uk

The Buffalo 07931 266900 thebuffalo.co.uk

The Natural Cake Company 07411 919218 thenaturalcakecompany.com

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

Abbotts Event Hire 01209 212794 abbottseventhire.co.uk

Out of the Ordinary Event Hire 01209 203291 outoftheordinaryeventhire.com

Peng Succulents 07584 55522 pengsucculents.com/weddings

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

Fireworks

Celebration Pyrotechnics 01208 78790 / 07814 014233 celebrationpyro.com

Sonic Fireworks 01884 849222 sonicfireworks.co.uk

Flowers

Fleurtations 01208 78555 fleurtationscornwall.com

George Mackay Flowers 07852 405311 georgemackayflowers.com

Perdie’s Flowers 07792 924212 perdiesflowers.co.uk

Toots & Blooms 07891 492944 instagram.com/tootsandblooms_florals

The Woodland Atelier 07859 066450 thewoodlandatelier.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 07886 424113 cornwallsuitroom.com

Photography

Alan Law Photography 07594 847422 alanlawphotography.co.uk

ByLumiere 07725 233247 bylumiere.co.uk

Hannah Wilde Photography 07508 596322 hannah-wilde.com

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

Olivia Rossi Photography 07470 056050 oliviarossiphotography.com

Ross Talling Photography 07525 781128 rosstalling.co.uk

The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography 07943 551687 themenagerielifestylephotography.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

Becca Williams 07845 579377 beccawilliams.co.uk

Emily Nixon 01736 887599 emilynixon.com

Found Treasure foundtreasurejewellery.com

Justin Duance 01736 367254 justind.co.uk

Michael Spiers 01872 272264 michaelspiers.co.uk

Stephanie Stevens 07817 239895 stephaniestevensjewellery.co.uk

Svendsen Jewellery svendsenjewellery.com

Transport

Honeybugs Cornwall 07981 166098 honeybugscornwall.co.uk

Vintage Dream Rides vintagedreamrides.com

Venues

Above the Bay abovethebay.co.uk

Atlantic Hotel 01637 872244

atlantichotelnewquay.co.uk

Beachside 01736 800490 weddingsbeachside.co.uk

Beacon Crag 07815 311291 beaconcrag.com

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 01726 833866 foweyhallhotel.co.uk

The Fir Hill 07831 800701 thefirhill.co.uk

The Gannet 01736 795651 gannetstives.co.uk

The Green 01579 362253 thegreencornwall.co.uk

Harbour Hotel St Ives 01736 795221 harbourhotels.co.uk

Hotel Meudon 01326 250541 meudon.co.uk

Kilminorth 07850 553280 kilminorth.co.uk

Knightor 01726 851101 knightor.com

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

The Llawnroc Hotel 01726 844155 thellawnrochotel.co.uk

The Lost Gardens of Heligan 01726 845100 heligan.com

Lower Barns 01726 844881 lowerbarnswedding.co.uk

Lusty Glaze 01637 872444 lustyglaze.co.uk

Nancarrow 01872 487099 nancarrowfarm.co.uk

Oceanside 01637 872519 oceansidehotel.co.uk

The Old Quay House Hotel 01726 833302 theoldquayhouse.com

Pencarrow 01840 250118 weddingsatpencarrow.com

Pengenna Manor 01208 612221 pengennamanor.co.uk

Polhawn Fort 01752 822864 polhawnfort.com

Polmanter 01736 795640 polmanter.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

The Barn at Pengelly 01872 229842 pengellyweddings.com

The Alverton 01872 276633 thealverton.co.uk

The Greenbank 01326 312440 greenbank-hotel.co.uk

Tredudwell Manor 01726 870226 tredudwell.co.uk

Tregedna Weddings 07979 645946 tregednaweddings.co.uk

Trelowarren 01326 221224 trelowarren.com

Trenderway 01503 272214 trenderwayweddings.co.uk

Trenoweth trenowethhouse.co.uk

Treseren 01872 719654 treseren.co.uk

Trevenna 01579 320013 trevennaweddings.co.uk

Una St Ives 01736 257000 unastives.co.uk

Wedding planners

Situ Weddings & Events situweddings.co.uk

Out of the Ordinary Weddings 07900 954051 outoftheordinaryweddings.com

Rebel & Anchor 07815 151010 rebelandanchor.co.uk

Tide the Knot Wedding & Event Planning tidetheknot.net

got wed

Beautiful love stories from across Cornwall

Becca and Alex’s intimate ceremony in the Italian Garden was filled with meaningful music and readings

Once Upon a Dream

The Lost Gardens

of Heligan was the fairytale setting of Becca and Alex’s intimate wedding

Becca and Alex met in their local pub. “Alex was a house builder on the estate where I had just bought my first house, so I spent a lot of time telling him about the problems that needed fixing!” she laughs. His proposal at Efteling, a theme park in the Netherlands, set the mood for their wedding. “The park is fairytale-themed and so was the proposaloutside my favourite ride! We celebrated with mulled wine as it was just after Christmas.”

The enchantment continued at The Lost Gardens of Heligan, a place they had fallen in love with during a visit to Cornwall. Opting for a fairy garden theme for the bridal party, Becca wore a romantic gown embellished with lace flowers and a floral headband while her bridesmaids donned flowing lilac gowns and carried pretty bouquets of pale pink and purple blooms.

Weaving through the leafy paths in the late afternoon sunshine, the bridal party entered the Italian Garden, with its ornamental lake and Mediterranean flora and fauna, for a beautifully personal evening ceremony before nine close family members. “The bridesmaids walked into Once Upon a Dream from Sleeping Beauty and I walked into By the Sleepy Lagoon,” says Becca. The music played a central role throughout the ceremony, with classical pieces such as Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony from Fantasia and music from Efteling adding to the atmosphere, while the bridesmaids shared readings from The Owl and the Pussycat by Edward Lear and The Ent and the Entwife by J.R.R. Tolkien. “The ceremony was perfect, the Italian garden is like something from a dream,” says Becca.

After the vows, everyone mingled in the gardens over canapés and his-and-hers cocktails – basil gimlets and strawberry daiquiris – before the newlyweds ventured deeper into the gardens for photos. “One of our favourite moments was getting photos on the rope bridge!” recalls Becca. “It was actually really difficult – our photographer Hannah did a great job balancing with the camera! There was a lot of laughs – it was so much fun!”

Settling at a table dressed with foliage and blooms from the gardens, the wedding breakfast was an intimate affair featuring a meat-free menu of baked Camembert, roasted cauliflower and seafood linguine followed by lemon posset, sticky toffee pudding and a Cornish cheeseboard.

An upbeat first dance to Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville – “This song holds a lot of lovely holiday memories for us both” – was followed by cherished moments of dancing with their nearest and dearest, and toasting marshmallows around the firepit beneath the stars.

Reflecting on their enchanting garden wedding, Becca and Alex are happy they chose a laidback and intimate celebration. “I love the fact we had a very relaxed day. Having an evening ceremony meant we didn’t have to rush or stress. It was really special to go to the beach and have fun swimming in the sea together before it all!” she says. “I also enjoyed the intimacy of the wedding, having only nine guests meant we spent the whole weekend together, which was just perfect.”

Her advice for others planning a wedding? “Do what makes you both happy as a couple, think about the little things that will bring you both joy on your special day!” she says. Allow yourselves to be present in the moment: observe the little details – take a moment to listen to your music, look around at your family and friends, absorb the atmosphere and treasure it.”

Photography Hannah Timm Photography hannahtimmphotography.co.uk Venue, cake, décor, flowers & stationery The Lost Gardens of Heligan heligan.com

Planning Louise Eade, The Lost Gardens of Heligan heligan.com

Dress J & J Designs Bridal jandjdesignsbridal.co.uk

Suit House of Cavani cavani.co.uk

“Having only nine guests meant we spent the whole weekend together, which was just perfect”

hello@oceansidehotel.co.uk

In the Key of Love

Chloe and Paul’s summer wedding combined flavourful food and meaningful music

When Chloe spilt a drink in a Newquay bar, little did she know it would lead to meeting the love of her life. Catching the bar owner Paul’s eye, the pair exchanged numbers and their relationship began.

After moving to Holywell Bay, Paul found a way to make it a special place for them forever. “He spent months walking our dog Carrot up and down the beach looking for the perfect piece of turquoise sea glass, and had it made into a beautiful handcrafted engagement ring,” says Chloe. “He then waited months until he found the right moment to propose on my birthday in 2020, when I was six months pregnant. We went for a walk on Holywell Bay where he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.”

Their relaxed summer wedding was styled with décor inspired by Chloe’s time spent in Ghana. “My mum made bunting and the accessories were made by Matico, who makes jewellery from Ghanaian fabric – all the proceeds go towards educating young children in Ghana. She made me a beautiful headband, earrings and bangle, and I had earrings made for all the bridesmaids too.”

Thoughtful and handcrafted elements were woven throughout the day, with the couple adamant they wanted to forage and create many of the personalised touches. “We picked wildflowers from a friend’s land and I grew oxeye daisies and foxgloves at my allotment,” says Chloe of their floral decoration, while the canapés also boasted a handmade element. “I foraged the wild garlic for the pesto pinwheels.”

The couple chose to wed in Truro register office, followed by pasties and champagne on the beach that was so central to their love story. “There were so many favourite moments, but being on Holywell Bay was pretty special,” reminisces Chloe.

Reconvening at Mount Pleasant Eco Park, everyone settled at a long table dotted with flowers for an “epic” outdoor wedding feast. “We both love Sri Lankan food so we had Sri Lankan curry with sides and pineapple lassis to drink. Instead of a cake we had 150 sarsaparilla doughnuts!” she says.

As dusk fell, the couple’s talented friends provided the musical entertainment. “For our first dance, our friends played The Girl by City and Colour, which started off slow, then we had everyone joining in at the end,” says Chloe. As well as some sea shanties and DJs playing Latin funk and world music, there was a very special surprise for Chloe from her new husband. “Paul wrote and sung me a song; it was so unexpected and perfect. I cried a lot!” she says. “I’m not sure how he had the time to write and practise the song whilst running a business and looking after three children and a dog, but he smashed it. His dad also sang a song with his own words to These Are a Few Of My Favourite Things, which was super sweet and very funny.”

Looking back on her day, Chloe’s top tip for other busily planning couples is to not worry about the small things. “It’s how people feel on the day, not about how it looks,” she says. “Try not to do too much and keep it simple.”

Photography Verity Westcott Photography veritywestcott.com

Venue Mount Pleasant Eco Park mpecopark.co.uk

Jewellery & accessories Matico maticostudio.com

Hair Melody-Rose Hair and Weddings instagram.com/melody_hair_weddings Make-up Beauty Boutique instagram.com/beautyboutiquenewquay

Catering Woodfired Weddings canteencornwall.com

Entertainment Bobby Soul and DJ Shmarkle

“It was so unexpected and perfect. I cried a lot!”

Chloe and Paul celebrated with friends and family at Holywell Bay before heading to Mount Pleasant Eco Park for their reception

CHLOE

PAUL

Summer Dreams

Hayley and Jake filled their summer wedding with bright hues and personal touches

After meeting at secondary school, it took a few false starts for Hayley and Jake to fall in love. The couple shared a kiss in 2008, then swiftly moved on; fast-forward a few years to 2012 and Hayley’s best friend convinced her to have a night out where she left chatting with Jake. “I wasn’t interested as I had just come out of a relationship and I said he was boring with no chat!” says Hayley. “He messaged me to ask for my number and prove me wrong. We dated for about six months before making it official!”

A walk and picnic near their home led to a romantic proposal, which in turn led to the couple planning their wedding extravaganza at Kilminorth. “I’ve wanted a three-day wedding since I went to a family wedding in the US, which had lots of celebrations over multiple days,” she says. The celebrations kicked off in style with a pizza party on the Friday night when they were lucky enough to spot the Northern Lights!

Their wedding day was also filled with glorious colours. “Oranges and pinks are my happy colours and Jake also loves brighter colours so we always knew we’d go down that route,” she says. “I loved the idea of a neutral bridal party and the flowers bringing all the colour!”

An idyllic corner of Kilminorth’s grounds set the scene for their al fresco ceremony; a singer serenaded guests as they took their seats and sang Fleetwood Mac’s Songbird as the bride walked down the aisle. Their bridesmaid, Laura, shared a reading called Wedding Poem before the newlyweds walked back up the aisle to Signed, Sealed, Delivered. “We did a dip and it was perfect –our favourite picture!” says Hayley.

Everyone milled around in the sunshine, enjoying drinks and canapés before heading to the marquee styled with gorgeous peonies, foliage and festoon lights where the newlyweds made a memorable entrance. “We walked in as Mr and Mrs Blythe to Freed from Desire and had no idea how it would pan out,” says Hayley of one of the couple’s favourite moments. “Everyone had their napkins in the air and we were all dancing for the entire song! It was brilliant!”

Guests were thrilled to find a personalised message written by Hayley and Jake at each place setting. “We managed to keep it a secret from all our guests,” she says. “We think it really set the tone for the rest of the afternoon and everyone is still talking about it.”

After a feast of slow-cooked barbecue pork belly, hispi cabbage, fried red skin potatoes, mac and cheese, slaw and salads, everyone headed to the doughnut wall for dessert ahead of the first dance.

“We went back and forth on a song for ages before choosing something that reminds us of good times together: Champagne Supernova by Oasis – we always dance to it after a few drinks!” says Hayley. “Our first dance was one of my favourite moments; I felt like it was just me and Jake in that room!” After a night of dance floor antics, the couple returned to their cottage and then savoured a relaxed Sunday with their nearest and dearest, reminiscing on their wonderful wedding day.

“It really does all come together in the final weeks before the big day,” says Hayley by way of calming advice for others who are in the throes of wedding planning. “Enjoy every single second as it honestly does all go by in a flash!”

Photography Laura Buffery Photography laurabufferyphotography.co.uk

Videography CV Visual Films cvvisualfilms.com

Venue Kilminorth kilminorth.co.uk

Dress Made With Love from St Ives Bridal Boutique stivesbridalboutique.co.uk

Bridesmaids’ dresses Maids to Measure maidstomeasure.com

Hair Bridal Hair by Rhian bridalhairbyrhian.co.uk

Make-up Balance of Beautee balanceofbeautee-makeupartistry.co.uk

Suits Moss moss.co.uk

Flowers Perdie’s Flowers perdiesflowers.co.uk

Catering Elements Events by Jack Clements elementsevents.co.uk

Pizza Kernowforno kernowforno.co.uk

Cocktails Two Beards Bars 2beardsbars.com

Entertainment Zoe Adele Sings zoeadelesings.co.uk

Sam King Entertainment samkingentertainment.co.uk

Hayley and Jake loved every moment of their three-day wedding extravaganza at Kilminorth

“Everyone had their napkins in the air and we were all dancing for the entire song!”

Garden Party

Nicole and Dan filled their garden wedding with colour, summery food and laughter

Nicole had known her brother Arron’s best friend, Dan, for years but it wasn’t until the stars aligned that the couple started dating – “not without asking for Arron’s blessing first of course!”, she says. A surprise trip to Mykonos for her birthday led to a golden hour proposal overlooking the sea. “It was a total shock!” she says. “We’d been together for nearly 11 years and I didn’t think he was ever going to propose.”

As a wedding photographer himself, Dan knew just how he wanted the wedding to flow. Choosing Enys as their venue, the couple made a weekend of the celebrations by staying with their friends, bridesmaids and groomsmen in a holiday home in Falmouth.

Waking to glorious sunshine on the big day after a week of bad weather, Nicole had a wonderful surprise before she left for the venue. “My parents surprised me with a vintage Morris Minor and my stepdad Duncan drove us from Falmouth to Enys with the roof down,” reflects Nicole. “I was so happy in that moment.”

The gardens of Enys provided a beautiful canvas for their colourful summer wedding. “The dress code on our invitations was ‘bold and chic’ – we wanted Enys to be full of colour,” says Dan. “Everyone really got on board with the theme. Nicole’s 83-year-old grandmother wore a lilac twopiece suit – she looked sensational!”

Their garden ceremony was filled with beautiful moments and plenty of humour. “It wasn’t a serious ceremony; we didn’t want tears, just smiles and laughter,” he says. Guests enjoyed drinks, canapés and games alongside a live acoustic guitarist on the sun-drenched lawn before an al fresco dinner. “Dan came up with a great idea – ‘no shot, no supper’,” says Nicole. “We got all our guests to line up to have a tequila shot before being seated. It made for the best photos and really got everyone lively!”

The brief for the wedding feast was “light, summery, colourful food served to the table”, which took the form of brown sugar smoked paprika brined pork with garlic aioli, smoked cauliflower with black olive salsa white bean purée, and pavlova with peaches, cardamon and cream. “The food was one of the most talked-about elements of the day,” says Nicole.

With a nice little after-dinner touch – “Dan and I served limoncello shots to our guests as a palate cleanser and to make sure we spoke to every single person” – the couple then took to the dance floor for their first dance to Beyond by Leon Bridges performed by live band Laurels. “Our friends set off confetti canons as we danced, which was beautiful,” she reminisces.

One memory stands out in particular for Dan. “I remember looking up and down the long table with all our friends and family, outside in the glorious sunshine, just having so much fun. It was such a special moment,” he recalls. “I feel so grateful that we were able to have the wedding that we dreamed of,” adds Nicole. When it comes to advice for others, she asserts: “Try to not let other people’s opinions on what a wedding should be like sway you. Stick to your guns and have the wedding you want.”

Photography Alan Law Photography alanlawphotography.co.uk

Videography Harrera Images harreraimages.co.uk

Venue Enys enysgardens.org.uk

On-the-day coordination Rebel & Anchor rebelandanchor.co.uk

Dress Abella by Allure Bridals from Bliss Bridal Gowns blissbridalgowns.co.uk

Shoes Loeffler Randall from Halo + Wren haloandwrenbridal.co.uk

Bridesmaids’ dresses Maids to Measure maidstomeasure.com

Hair Holly at The Hair Boutique thehairboutiquetruro.co.uk

Make-up The Blushing Barn theblushingbarn.co.uk

Suits Next next.co.uk

Catering Woodfired Weddings canteencornwall.com

Stones Bakery stonesbakedgoods.com

Flowers The Garden Gate Flower Company thegardengateflowercompany.co.uk

Candles St Eval st-eval.com

Games Cornwall Hire cornwallhire.co.uk

Transport Perranwell Garage perranwell.co.uk

Entertainment Jack Kessell instagram.com/jackkessell Laurels laurels.band

“We didn’t want tears, just smiles and laughter”

Nicole and Dan enjoyed exploring the gorgeous gardens of Enys on their sun-drenched wedding day

At the Ocean’s Edge

Hannah and Mat threw a picturesque and personality-packed wedding at Polhawn Fort

Originally meeting at school aged 17, it took Hannah and Mat 14 years to finally get the timing right. “We ended up living counties, countries and eventually continents apart, but we always stayed good friends and joked that we had ‘magnets in our belly buttons’ that always drew us to one another,” says Hannah. “When Mat returned home from Australia in 2016 he told me that ‘the torch he carried for me had turned into a bonfire’, and the rest is history.” A proposal in 2019 alongside a Swiss glacier paved the way for their beautifully personal wedding at Polhawn Fort.

Opting for a colour scheme of green and gold, the outdoorsy couple incorporated natural details throughout the styling, as well as spinal models and medical textbooks in a nod to Hannah’s job as a chiropractor.

A “first touch” helped the couple stay calm in the lead-up to their ceremony, which was conducted by a friend in the garden overlooking the sea. “Danny brought heart and humour to our day and made it even more memorable as he was able to add the personal touches that only a friend can do,” says Hannah.

As well as exchanging their own vows, the ceremony was filled with meaningful music, readings and rituals. “There will be times when we need to lean on those around us. To symbolise this, we planted a tree in a pot and each put in soil from our childhood homes,” she continues. Each member of the wedding party then added soil from their own homes as a sign that they will stand by the couple.

Celebrating becoming husband and wife with a shot of tequila, the newlyweds danced back down the aisle. Tequila also played a poignant part later in the day, when friends gathered to do a tequila shot for their heavenly best man, Paul. “30 friends got together to hold Paul in our hearts and toast him,” says Hannah, who incorporated a locket containing a picture of her best friend into her bouquet.

Guests enjoyed the sunshine and ocean panoramas while playing lawn games before tucking into a wedding breakfast of beetroot and goat’s cheese tatin, pan-roasted hake and a trio of desserts. A thoughtful gesture from the couple at each place setting proved a brilliant icebreaker. “Each guest had an envelope which contained a photograph of them with one of us and a funny story or memory. It was a lovely way to show our appreciation for our amazing guests,” says Mat.

As the sun began to set, Hannah and Mat stole away to the private beach for photographs and quiet moments together as the golden light danced on the water. “We had 20 minutes of playing, laughing and dancing on the beach together and it was perfect.”

A first dance with a difference saw the newlyweds and their guests doing a conga line to the Gipsy Kings’ Bamboléo to open the dance floor. “Looking out across the lawn and seeing all our favourite people together watching the sunset was the cherry on top of an honestly perfect day,” she says.

The couple’s top tip for others planning weddings is a simple one: delegate! “We had so many amazing friends who were desperate to help,” says Hannah. “Also, having a wedding coordinator on the day is essential.” Her final piece of advice is to take a little time to yourselves. “Just slipping away to share a hug helped us savour the day.”

Photography Laurie B Film and Photography laurie-b.com

Venue Polhawn Fort polhawnfort.com

On-the-day coordination Planning Elegance planningelegance.co.uk

Videography Prosper prsprfilms.com

Dress Madi Lane from The Wedding Company the-wedding-company.co.uk

Bridesmaids’ dresses & jumpsuits JJ’s House jjshouse.com

Hair Emily Chappel

Make-up Nancy Koohathong instagram.com/nk.beauty.makeup

Suits Marc Darcy marcdarcy.co.uk

Ties & chinos Next next.co.uk

Catering Apt Catering aptcatering.com

Flowers St Mellion Flowers stmellionflowers.co.uk

Entertainment For Celebrations forcelebrations.co.uk

“It was exactly what we wanted and more”

Hannah and Mat savoured some quiet moments together on the venue’s private beach as the sun began to set over the ocean

Relaxed and Romantic

Megan and Henry celebrated their union with a dreamy spring wedding at Nancarrow

“We met in the sea at our favourite surf spot in Cornwall,” reveals Megan of her first fortuitous encounter with Henry. “Henry was surfing and I was shooting surf photography. There were only a few of us in the water that evening. We enjoyed the most gorgeous sunset too!”

Their proposal story continued the oceanic vibe. “Henry hijacked our evening plans in the best way possible,” explains Megan. “I had planned on heading to our favourite spot to test a new film camera. After photographing the views, we sat overlooking where we met, watching the waves and just before we were about to leave, there he was on his knee, ring in hand.”

Nancarrow was the venue of choice for the couple’s relaxed country celebrations. Opting for a spring palette of green, white and pink, a beautiful blend of green suits, dusky pink bridesmaids’ dresses and delicate green, white and soft pink floristry all contributed to the layered, multi-tonal look replete with rural romance. Little touches further personalised the pretty scene and included gorgeous seaweed pendant gifts and shells at each place setting.

With close friends staying the night before, Megan and Henry enjoyed a slow morning of getting ready with them before hosting a short and personal ceremony in the barn. Henry’s dad played guitar for the aisle walks, and Megan and Henry read their own vows to each other. “I strongly remember we held hands the whole time and maybe in a sort of nervousness, we constantly bounced them,” laughs Megan. “Another truly special moment for me was my mum reading us a poem,” she adds.

Exiting to a confetti tunnel – “I’d really recommend paper discs! They travel so well in the air leaving a bigger impact!” – the newlyweds then joined guests for canapés in the courtyard ahead of the bouquet throw and a sumptuous wedding breakfast. “The food at Nancarrow is 100% the main reason we booked the venue,” says Megan who relished a menu featuring slow-cooked beef brisket, wood-roasted Cornish new potatoes, wild garlic and sides from the kitchen garden followed by caramelised date and apple pudding. The cutting of the cake and first dance followed, after which everyone headed outside for sparklers.

“It was so warming and lovely to see everyone having so much fun with the sparklers,” says Megan of one of her and Henry’s most memorable moments. “It created such a funny scene of laughter and at the point in the night we were just on cloud nine! It was a pure joy moment.”

One of the lingering memories was of the venue itself, which the couple couldn’t praise enough. “Everyone came away utterly blown away by Nancarrow and how personal they made the day for all who attended,” says Megan. “The accommodation allowed half of our guests to stay the night before and after the wedding, which made the celebrations continue that bit longer.”

Speaking of wedding spaces, Megan and Henry suggest searching for somewhere that helps ease the planning process yet allows for individualisation. “Book a venue that offers a package,” says Megan. “We can’t rave enough about how easy planning was with Nancarrow. They would ask only a few, to-the-point questions so we weren’t overwhelmed and yet we were deciding all the important things to make the day unique to us.”

Photography Lizzie Churchill lizziechurchill.com

Dom Salunke instagram.com/domsalunke

Venue Nancarrow nancarrowfarm.co.uk

Dress The Bridal Studio bridal-studio-helston.co.uk

Hair & make-up Niamh at Hair by Serendipity newquayhairandmakeup.co.uk

Flowers Three Acre 3acre.co.uk

Stationery Comb Cornwall combcornwall.co.uk

Entertainment Fistral Stereo fistralstereo.com

“We were just on cloud nine. It was a pure joy moment!”

Megan and Henry made the most of Nancarrow’s lush grounds and exceptional food offerings

MEGAN AND HENRY by LIZZIE CHURCHILL

The Story of Us

Festival vibes and personal touches were the keynotes of Beccy and Tom’s coastal wedding

Beccy and Tom were living in Bangkok when he presented her with a memorable Christmas gift. “Tom asked me to close my eyes and hold out my hands; when I opened my eyes, he was down on one knee holding out a ring!” she reveals. Both families flew out a couple of days later to celebrate, and planning soon began for their Cornish wedding.

“We got married in a field along the Camel Trail in St Issey near Padstow with stunning views of the estuary,” says Beccy. “Guests camped in tipis in the field just below our wedding field with equally amazing views!”

Taking a ‘tropical disco’ theme, pops of colour, streamers and disco balls adorned the marquee, while their VW campervan, Colonel Mustard, was bedecked with balloons and fairy lights. Hay bales and firepits were scattered outside for guests to sit on and savour the stunning views across the estuary. “We wanted to create a festival vibe!” says Tom of the laidback and personality-packed scene.

Many of the details were designed and made by friends and family, including the wedding invitation artwork which told their love story and personalised candles. The ceremony was also a highly personal affair conducted by the couple’s friend, Harry. As well as writing their own vows, Beccy and Tom secretly picked the songs for their aisle walks – Tom chose A Million Dreams from The Greatest Showman for Beccy’s arrival and Beccy chose My Universe by Coldplay and BTS for their exit –performed by a steel band.

“Tom’s great-aunt Margaret read a poem, The Promise, which made everyone cry,” says Beccy of a particularly poignant moment from the day. “She’s no longer with us, so that memory is one we’ll cherish forever.”

The speeches were delivered throughout the wedding breakfast, which was one of the couple’s main priorities. “Food is a big deal to us, so we spent a lot of time finding the perfect caterers who would personalise a menu for us,” she explains. “We wanted it to reflect us and tell our story.” A selection of nibbles reflected Beccy’s Indian and Tom’s Scottish heritage as well as their time living in Spain and Thailand. Starters of calcots were also rich in Spanish flavour, followed by low and slow chicken with sugar brine and wood smoke served with a range of sides including Catalonian tomaquet with flatbreads. For pudding, Beccy selected her family’s favourite dessert of cornflake tart with custard.

An evening of merriment ensued – “One of our favourite moments was riding on our friends’ shoulders and looking down seeing all our friends and family jumping around below us!” – leaving the newlyweds reflective of their dream-filled day, and full of advice for other busily planning couples. “Divide and conquer! You can’t both do everything, so play to your strengths. And remember that sometimes it’s worth paying a problem to go away!” says Tom.

“Also, if you’re planning to steam your own dress the morning of the wedding, do a test run!” she cautions. “Our steamer failed the night before the wedding. Thankfully, Old Station Laundry in Bodmin came to the rescue, steamed the dress to perfection the morning of the wedding and refused to take payment for it!”

Photography & videography Yeah Mike yeahmikephotovideo.com

Venue Tregonce Weddings instagram.com/tregonce

Marquee The Cornish Tent Company thecornishtentcompany.com

Planning & styling Rebel & Anchor rebelandanchor.co.uk

Dress Stephanie Allin stephanieallin.net

Dress steaming Old Station Laundry oldstationlaundry.co.uk

Hair Hair By Emma C hairbyemmac.net

Make-up Charlotte Albert makeupcornwall.com

Flowers Rose Valley Farm Flowers rosevalleyfarmflowers.com

Catering Woodfired Weddings canteencornwall.com

Cake Nicola Richman nicolarichman.com

Stationery Janki Patel instagram.com/illustratedbyjanki Lemon and Lime Design lemonandlimedesign.co.uk

Streamers Streamadelica streamadelica.co.uk

Napkins The Knotted Napkin Co. theknottednapkinco.com

Entertainment Real Steel Band instagram.com/realsteelband

Beautiful readings, steel band music and views across the Camel Estuary made Beccy and Tom’s ceremony one to remember

“One of our favourite moments was riding on our friends’ shoulders and looking down seeing all our friends and family jumping around below us!”

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

NOTES ON A WEDDING

Stay refreshed. Providing refreshments prior to the ceremony (not just after) is sure to welcome your guests. If your guests are arriving to set up camp earlier, hire a snack van that serves hot snacks or a much-needed coffee. Maddie

Welcome pack. If your wedding includes accommodation on-site, go that extra mile by leaving your guests a little welcome bag in their rooms. This could include things such as an itinerary of the weekend, a map of the local area including recommendations, a drinks token and a snack for those late evening munchies or a hangover pack for the day after. Beckie

Get started early. Nothing will make your wedding guests feel more welcome than extending the celebrations with a pre-wedding welcome event. Keep it casual with a relaxed environment where guests can mingle, connect and get to know each other before the big day. Jessica

Talking tech. Create a wedding website to house all the information for your special day with an option for your guests to leave RSVP comments about how excited they are. Maddie

Make it personal. Use photos of each guest in the style of ‘find your face, take your place’ for an alternative and interactive replacement for the traditional table plan, or hire a wedding illustrator to capture each guest as a keepsake. Beckie

Whatever the weather. If it’s hot, provide fans on seats for the ceremony that guests can carry with them all day and, for cool evenings, add some blankets in the casual seating area for guests to use. Maddie

Hit the dance floor. Incorporating a song request into your wedding RSVPs is a fun and interactive way to personally engage your guests in the day. Not only will it get them on the dance floor, it will also create a playlist that reflects the tastes of your favourite people! Jessica

Get crafty. Make a guest book table with a Polaroid camera and pens for everyone to leave you a special message or set up a ‘build your own Lego mini figure’ station, where guests build themselves and you frame them as a keepsake of your day. Maddie

Nice notes. Writing a personalised note for each guest will add a unique and intimate touch. They will make your guests feel extra special and appreciated, enhancing their overall experience of your day. Jessica

Party time. Supply flips-flops for your guests, whether it’s to ease sore feet in the evening or to keep them comfortable all day long if you’re planning a beach wedding. Maddie

Sitting pretty. Be thoughtful with the seating plan – seat guests with people they know or who they are likely to have something in common with. This small gesture will make a huge difference to their experience. Jessica

Bathroom baskets. Stock some ‘refresh stations’ in the bathrooms with all the essentials your guests will need but might not think to bring.

Book an artist to capture each guest for a fun keepsake

Organise an event for guests to meet the day before the wedding

This hangover kit from Gigi & Olive will be welcome the morning after!

Provide flip-flops to ease your guests’ aching feet

Provide umbrellas for an outdoor ceremony - just in case!

Consider the seating plan carefully to enhance your guests’ experience

A wedding website keeps guests in the loop with the plans

Blankets will ensure your guests keep warm during the evening

Serve guests coffees and snacks before the ceremony

Keep guests cool with these personalised fans from Gigi & Olive

Cornwall Caricatures

Stock your bathrooms with items your guests might need

Ask guests to choose songs for the party playlist

A personalised note for each guest will be a welcome touch

Fill welcome bags with handy items for the celebrations

A gift box from April & Bloom is a luxe way to treat your guests

Sub-tropical Celebrations

More than just a venue

Photography: Arianna Fenton Photography