£4.99|202252ISSUE TM DEVON’S DREAMIEST WEDDING INSPIRATION Fresh fashions, dream venues and beautiful Devon somethingweddings new
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TREVENNA EXCLUSIVE USE WEDDING INFO@TREVENNA.CO.UKWWW.TREVENNA.CO.UKVENUE01579320013 BEAUTIFULLY BEAUTIFULLYBEAUTIFULLYROMANTICROMANTICROMANTIC
Fancy wearing a blue dress? Styled shoot Rhapsody in Blue showcases a dreamily romantic blue gown alongside elegant styling inspiration for a modern country house wedding. Thinking of going for a ‘70s vibe? Disco Inferno brings the grooves, the glitter balls and the iconic fashions for a retro celebration to remember. Drawn towards darker colours? Luxe is in the Air blends black, green and gold in the most captivating way to create an achingly chic wedding scene at The Great Barn. And, if you’re seeking a dress to turn heads, then the Vera Wang Bride collection at The Ivory Lounge in Plymouth is a must-visit. Turn to She’s
Canvas is full of inspiration for styling your tent of choice, while The Great Outdoors offers some top tips for festivities deep in Devon’s awe-inspiring
Photography
This year marks 10 years since I got married. After a church ceremony, my husband and I threw a festival wedding overlooking the sea. As well as a celebration of our love, it really was a celebration of all the things that make us who we are, from our favourite music, colours, drinks and cake flavours to food inspired by our heritage. And, 10 years on, I’m so glad we did it that way.
Fromlandscape.theeast
We’ve always been about breaking the ‘rules’ here at Wed and, in a county filled with brilliantly creative suppliers, stunning venues and epic locations to build your own party space, there’s plenty of inspiration for couples seeking to put their stamp on their weddings in these pages.
Melanie Barnfield Coordination & styling Knots & Kisses Dress Millia London Headdress The Lucky Sixpence Tipi World Inspired Tents DELIVERED TO YOUR DOORTo order single copies or take out ayear’s subscription for £18, simply visitwedmagazine.co.uk ISSUE2022£4.99 TM DEVON’S DREAMIEST WEDDING INSPIRATION Fresh fashions, dream venuesand beautiful Devon
somethingweddings
WELCOME
I hope this issue inspires a gorgeously individual celebration of your own – and that you can look back, 10 years on,
and bask in golden memories of a beautiful and oh-so unique day. Rebecca YOUUNIQUELY LOGO GUIDELINES 20mm ARJOWIGGINS CREATIVE PAPERS - ANT2747 Minimum size To make sure that the logo is always readable and recognisable the Carbon Balanced Paper marque should not be reproduced smaller than 20mm high. When using the logo at minimum size, be careful to ensure that the website address and registration number is still legible if reversed out of a coloured background or image. Exclusion zone The exclusion zone (indicated by the solid line) is the minimum area around the Carbon Balanced logo that must remain clear of typography or any other graphic device. The formula for the exclusion zone is shown here and applies to all sizes of logo reproduction. It is cal culated by using twice the height of the ‘T’ in Trust and varies in direct proportion to the size at which the logo is reproduced. ARJOWIGGINS CREATIVE PAPERS - ANT2747 T T TT TT T T Colours and reproduction The logo should only be reproduced in PMS 561, C90 M40 Y55 K21, black or white out. Examples below show the permitted permutations for logo application. ARJOWIGGINS CREATIVE PAPERS ANT2747CBP1234567 ARJOWIGGINS CREATIVE PAPERS - ANT2747CBP1234567 ARJOWIGGINS CREATIVE PAPERS ANT2747 iConCarbonCO.Centre | Eastern Way | Daventry | NN11 0QB | United Kingdom enquiries@carbonco.info | +44 (0)1327 828280 5
of the county to the west, our Got Wed section is brimming with beautiful weddings and couples, each of whom put their likes and loves front and centre of their celebrations. From Ruth and Anthony, who opted for a last dance of their favourite song and a sweetheart table for their Greek wedding feast, to Sian and Jack, who filled their day with their favourite things, from shades of periwinkle blue and wildflowers to their beloved dog, each wedding is filled with love, laughter and a bucketload of personality.
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regular | BRIDAL BUZZ Helen Court Photography 6 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Editor Rebecca Matthews Deputy editor Lucy Higgins Chief features writer Hannah May Contributors Elizabeth Chester, Rebecca Green, Jessica Kearney, Hazel Parsons, Sophie Walker-Sünderhauf,PhoebeTaylor Design Matt designunltd.co.ukDesignSanwell,UNLTD AdvertisingManagementand Brendan Sleeman Distribution Jenna Matthews Finance Morwenna Matthews Publisher Wed Magazine 28 Reens wed@wedmagazine.co.uk01736TR18HeamoorCrescentPenzanceCornwall3HW331456wedmagazine.co.uk Print Deltor Communications Ltd Cover image Photography Jennifer jenniferjanephotography.Janeco.uk Styling Clover & cloverandfern.co.ukFern Venue Hamswell hamswellhouse.co.ukHouse Dress Millia millialondon.comLondon Crown Clare Lloyd clarelloyd.co.uk Hair Bath Bridal bathbridalhair.comHair Flowers Jasper + jasperandquinn.comQuinn Model Leah instagram.com/leah_Williamswilliams_uk © wed magazine. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be published without written permission. While reasonable steps are taken to check the accuracy of the content within this publication, wed magazine cannot take any responsibility for any mistakes or omissions or the views of our contributors or advertisers. All views expressed in wed are not necessarily those of wed magazine. A ROCKBEARE ROMANCE If a Grade-I listed Regency country house is the stuff of your wedding dreams, then prepare to fall hard for Rockbeare Manor. Although located only six miles from Exeter’s city centre, the exclusive-use venue sits amongst 100 acres of stunning Devon parkland, transporting you and your guests to a tranquil rural idyll. The lovingly restored country house blends grand proportions and stately features with modern comforts and contemporary elegance. From the light, majestic climes of the Ballroom to the ornamental plasterwork and original chandelier of the Dining Room, the interiors fuse opulence and romance, while the grounds offer beautiful gardens and parkland for guests to roam and endless scenic backdrops for Anphotographs.invitingnew
is Comfortablysnug.
accommodating four (with a trundle bed and sofa bed for an additional two guests), you’ll also receive a breakfast hamper to tuck into on the morning of the wedding as you prepare for the party ahead. What’s more, the team is currently working on the adjoining barn to create stylish preparation stations with mirrors and seating as well as an additional bathroom so the entire bridal party can get ready in luxe comfort together.
bridalbuzz
addition to Rockbeare Manor provides yet another reason to wed in this outstanding spot. Having undergone a recent refurbishment, The Dairy is a beautiful bijou cottage located just behind the main house. Designed for couples (or the bride and her ‘maids, groom and his groomsmen) to spend the night before the wedding, expect all the mod cons such as a wireless sound system and open plan lounge area, which doubles up perfectly as a preparation space, with sumptuous interiors and decadent touches for a stay that’s as stylish as it
rockbearemanor.co.uk
STYLE 12. GREEN DAY Paint your wedding in shades of fresh sage, crisp mint and luxe 14.emeraldRHAPSODY IN BLUE Dreamy blue gown and elegant touches for an al fresco 20.celebration DISCO INFERNO Give your wedding a ‘70s groove with retro fashions, warm hues and glitter balls galore 26. WED’S WISH LIST Dream dresses and showstopping shoes 30. WHAT’S YOUR BRIDAL STYLE? Fashionista or relaxed romantic? Top-trending dresses for a so-you statement 38. WED’S BOUDOIR Bridal beauty tips and trends 40. VEILED TALE Upgrade the classic bridal accessory with script, stars and florals 42. SHE’S THE ONE Prepare to fall in love with the Vera Wang Bride collection at The Ivory Lounge 48. BE JEWELLED Captivating bridal jewels, from lustrous pearls to sandcast 58.treasuresWORKING THE GROOM Tips and trends for the man of the moment 64. LUXE IS IN THE AIR Contemporary elegance at The Great Barn FEATURES 52. ENDURING LOVE Sparkling rings inspired by the beauty of days gone by 55. WHEN THE PARTY’S OVER Ward off the post-wedding blues with these top tips 61. WED’S HIP LIST Fresh, fun and fabulous ways to add a unique touch to your day 70. FOOD FOR THOUGHT Add a memorable and flavour-packed punch to your day with these top trends 74. DEVON’S FINEST Delight your guests with these Devon-made food and drinks 79. GOOD MIXERS Jo Fitch of The Buffalo reveals her top five cocktails for wowing your wedding crowd 82. THE GREAT OUTDOORS Inspiration for an al fresco celebration, from clifftop vows to garden parties 86. THE MAGIC OF CANVAS Expert advice for styling your dream wedding under canvas 92. WHETHER OR NOT How to prepare for whatever the weather gods throw your way on W-day 97. YOU MAY NOW QUIZ THE BRIDE Fun and fabulous games to play during the reception 101. WED’S VENUES GUIDE The ultimate guide to Devon’s finest wedding venues 118. NORTHERN SOUL Hot spots for a honeymoon in North Devon REGULARS 6. BRIDAL BUZZ What’s new, what’s hot, what’s on 125. GOT WED Newly-weds share a glimpse of their day 162. NOTES ON A WEDDING Top tips for your planning pleasure WORDS OF LOVE “Marriage is not a noun; it’s a verb. It isn’t something you get. It’s something you do. It’s the way you love your partner every day.” Barbara De Angelis
You might choose to marry beneath the dramatic vaulted ceilings of the barn or amongst the roses, wisteria and blossom-filled trees of the gardens, which offer enchantment all year round for drinks receptions and photographs. Tailor your celebrations to suit your individual style in the beautifully lit barn and tuck into a wedding feast brimming with organic and locally sourced ingredients.
Sitting in the heart of a valley where rolling meadows meet pockets of mature trees, The Great Barn offers breathtaking natural beauty and away-from-it-all romance within eight miles of Exeter.
NATURAL BEAUTY
There’s accommodation for up to 30 guests in a trio of self-catering cottages. Rich in historic character and contemporary comforts, you’ll find elegantly designed interiors complete with king-sized beds, snug sofas, wood burners and luxurious bathrooms, while the Grade-II listed Place has a separate bridal suite with its own entrance, sitting room, bedroom and bathroom with a clawfoot bath. Available on an exclusive-use basis, you can enjoy this picture-perfect estate in complete privacy for a long weekend, allowing you to linger a little longer, soaking up the heady romance of this special place with your nearest and dearest.
thegreatbarndevon.co.uk
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Flanked by 120 acres of private grounds complete with flower-filled walled gardens and a medieval courtyard, The Great Barn – affectionately known as the ‘thatched cathedral’ – never fails to captivate couples with its 15th century history, striking architecture and wow-worthy interiors. Thanks to its scale, most of the celebrations can take place in a single space, while the adjoining Roundhouse works perfectly as a bar area, chill-out lounge or space to entertain younger guests.
“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.”
Couples seeking an outdoor wedding will delight in the array of spaces such as the pretty, scented setting of the Victorian Rose Garden, the picturesque lakeside garden of the Riding School and the fairytale beauty of the American Garden and its wooded glade of exotic trees. There is also a choice of marquee sites scattered across the grounds, including the deer park and by the
As well as a secluded location, the venue offers exclusivity for an entire weekend, affordable packages and on-site camping and glamping – think bell tents or shepherd huts dotted around the lake – for small gatherings through to large-scale weddings.
A new outdoor wedding venue has opened its doors in North Devon. A joint venture between World Inspired Tents and Coxleigh Barton Farm in Barnstaple, The Venue at Coxleigh sits amidst rolling hills with farreaching views across Exmoor – a seriously scenic setting for a personality-packed wedding under canvas.
WORDS OF LOVE
FRESH FROM A FAIRYTALE
The setting of many love stories during its 600-year history, Powderham Castle specialises in unfeasibly romantic weddings, combining historic charm and stirring rural beauty with a wholly bespoke approach. Situated near Exeter, the exclusive-use venue is available for a variety of events, whether you wish to host a humanist ceremony in the gardens, a rustic-chic party in the Riding School or a lavish reception in the castle.
Alake.plethora
powderham.co.uk/weddings
SECRET SPOT
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Choose from one of World Inspired Tents’ Nordic tipis or Aurora sailcloth tents for a wow-worthy celebration space, whether you’re dreaming of summer celebrations with the sides rolled down or winter festivities complete with candles and firepits. Providing furnishings, lighting fixtures and event planning services, you can look forward to a hassle-free wedding immersed in nature, filled with woodland walks and dancing beneath the stars.
Robert Fulghum, ‘True Love’
Its beauty is not just to be found in its buildings and dreamlike setting, but its versatile range of spaces. Along with the majestic castle, there are three more fully licensed venues to choose from: the idyllic climes of the Woodland Garden complete with a Gothic pavilion; the rustic charm of the old Riding School, perfect for couples seeking a relaxed barn wedding; and the striking Belvedere, an 18th century tower atop a hill that presents jaw-dropping views across the estate and estuary.
TaberhamIonaPhotography,BoxSamuelPhotographyTozeAlexPhotography,
thevenueatcoxleigh.com
of indoor options allow you to celebrate in style whatever the weather and season, whether it’s amidst the oak panelling and open fire of the State Dining Room or the light and character-filled Libraries with their panora mas of the gardens and deer park. Or you might fall for the romance of the Music Room with its estuary views and glorious domed ceiling. With every type of celebration tailored to ensure a day as distinctive as your love, a wedding at Powderham is a dream-come-true venue.
Special thanks to these incredible local suppliers: Dress – The Ivory Lounge, Photographer – Melanie Barnfield, Suit – Moss Bros, Hair and Make Up – Fox House Retreat, Flowers – Hannah Burnett, Models – Paige and Daniel.
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“On your wedding day, remember to be you”
‘The Style Experience’ will see Nikki working with you from concept through to completion, offering a comprehensive, bespoke styling experience designed to shape the overall look and feel of your wedding. Meanwhile, ‘The On-The-Day Edit’ takes the stress out of the big day itself, removing any décor set-up and styling tasks from your to-do list – perfect if you already have a design in mind and most of the styling supplies you need.
Nikki Sherriff of Knots & Kisses knows that fresh eyes and ideas can really help take your wedding to a new level, and that venue styling isn’t simply about making things look beautiful. Every visual element shapes your guests’ experience, so purpose and function are important too, and she’s offering three styling services to help you finesse the look for your wedding.
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peboryon.com
The finest quality local ingredients – including organic and free-range products wherever possible – are another passion for the cake artist and, with flavours such as red velvet, sticky toffee, lemon and elderflower and passionfruit and white chocolate, you and your guests are assured an all-round sensory experience to savour.
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TIERS OF JOY
STYLED WITH A KISS
And as well as styling and design, there’s also ‘The Inspiration Session’, a consultation-only service for couples who need a little guidance or a big dose of inspiration – ideal if you want to do everything yourselves but don’t know where to start when it comes to creating a cohesive, trend-led look for your wedding. Knots & Kisses also offers a range of backdrops and ceremony frames, which can be either included with a styling service, or used on a hireonly basis.
Planning a wedding can be exciting and wonderful to time-consuming and stressful – and everything in-between – and one of the most discussed areas of planning is the styling. Choosing a wedding stylist means you can work with an expert to help create your dream vision, ensuring it looks every bit as magical as (or even better than) you imagined.
It
PhotographyStodaDarina PhotographyWoodStuart PhotographyJonesKatyPhotographyStodaDarinaPhotographyWardDanPhotographyWardDan 10 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
knotsandkisses.co.uk
WEDDING SUPERSTITION is thought to be good luck for a bride to cry on her wedding day because it symbolises that she has shed all her tears and will not have any to shed during her marriage. Just remember the waterproof mascara, ladies!
The intricately crafted sweet creations by Peboryon are a sight to behold – and a treat for the taste buds to boot. From textured buttercream confections and sleek contemporary styles to stunning tiers cloaked with dainty handcrafted sugar petals, Peboryon’s Claire Potts is passionate about creating a cake tailored entirely to each couple’s vision – and can turn her hand to all manner of designs.
11 www.uptonbarn.com THE 2021 WEDDING INDUSTRY AWARDS: NATIONAL WINNER PHOTOGRAPHYNOWAKKAMILABYIMAGESPHOTOGRAPHYGOODINGJOSHUABYIMAGE
green day style | FASHION | GREEN DAY
compiled by Rebecca Matthews
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Hand-painted with fresh-from-thehedgerow favourites, this cake by Emily Hankins is perfect for a botanical wedding theme. emilyhankins.co.uk 5. We love this artful bouquet of fresh greens and crisp whites. fromthewildflorist.com 6. A fusion of emerald beads and 18ct gold, these handcrafted earrings by Mirri Damer ooze an easy glamour. mirridamer.com
Dotted with glorious sapphires, this stunning ring by Emily Nixon is inspired by the colours of the landscape. emilynixon.com
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Fill your wedding with shades of green, from fresh sage and mint to luxe emerald
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From the botanical detailing to the billowing sleeves, this Hermione de Paula jumpsuit is cool, comfy and ohso gorgeous. hermionedepaula.com
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The Devon Sage & Lavender suite by The Dairy Studio strikes a stylish green chord. thedairystudiodesign.co.uk 8. Combining a Colombian emerald and recycled 9ct gold cast in sand from Sennen beach in Cornwall, we’re a little in love with this one-off pendant by Justin Duance. justind.co.uk 9. From the luxe shade to the statement bow, these shoes by Emmy London are seriously chic. emmylondon.com 1. 4. 2. 3. 5. 6. 8. 9. 7. PhotographyKinchinClareLibertyPearlPhotography 12 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
The sage green shade, the soft tulle, the shoulder-baring silhouette – we love everything about this bridesmaid dress from TH&TH. thandth.com
Evolve Photography
feature |STYLING | RHAPSODY IN BLUE
Dream a little dream of a romantic country house wedding styled with luxurious touches and the softest shades of blue
rhapsody in blue
14 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
photography Jennifer Jane Photography styling Phoebe Taylor, Clover & Fern
RHAPSODY IN BLUE15
The soft blues of the antique fabric carry throughout the styling, from the tablecloth and candles to the intricate pattern on the plates, paired with crystal glassware and antique silver cutlery.
There’s something about blue. Calm, airy and elegant, blue brings effortless romance to a wedding – and it’s seriously on-trend to boot. From Bridgertoninspired Regency blue to shades of sky blue and periwinkle, our love affair with blue looks set to bring gorgeous colour to weddings in 2023 – and, in this dreamily romantic styled shoot, the hue takes centre stage. “Inspired by the simple patterns of the French blue toile de jouy of the 18th century, I wanted to create a wildly romantic but extremely elegant and luxurious wedding setting,” explains photographer Jennifer Jane.
The intricately crafted sweet treats at each place setting echo the delicate design of the cake, which blends blue floral motifs with stunning sugar craft florals. The floral arrangements also reflect the romantic aesthetic, with seasonal blooms in a palette of soft whites and creams spilling from a white ceramic urn at the table and the bouquet.
Perhaps the most vivid expression of the theme is the bridal gown – a voluminous confection of muted blue tulle ruffles with a plunging neckline and low back paired with a handcrafted floral crown. Complete with a debonair groom in a sharp tuxedo, it’s a glorious scene, fresh from a modern fairytale.
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RHAPSODY IN BLUE17
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Hair Bath Bridal Hair bathbridalhair.com
Shoes Dune London dunelondon.com
Stationery Sophie Ellis Design sophieellisdesign.com
Cake Rachel Miller Cake Design rachelmillercakedesign.co.uk
Flowers Jasper + Quinn jasperandquinn.com
RHAPSODY IN BLUE19
Accessories Clare Lloyd clarelloyd.co.uk
Jamie Williams instagram.com/jjtdkuk
Dress Millia London millialondon.com
Photography Jennifer Jane Photography jenniferjanephotography.co.uk
Venue Hamswell House hamswellhouse.co.uk
Rings Rosie Clayden rosieclayden.co.uk
Groom’s outfit Dobell dobell.co.uk
Models Leah Williams instagram.com/leah_williams_uk
Styling Clover & Fern cloverandfern.co.uk
feature | STYLING | DISCO INFERNO
DISCO INFERNO
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Grab your glitter and get set to groove! Embrace a ‘70s disco theme and style your wedding with warm colours, retro fashions and glitter balls galore photography Melanie Barnfield styling & coordination Knots & Kisses
DISCO INFERNO
The rich colours carry from the flowers adorning the wooden ceremony backdrop to the tables styled with a range of textures: think rattan, wood and stoneware with light-catching brass accents and amber and pink glassware. The palette and retro patterns of the stationery brilliantly capture ‘70s style, as does the smooth contours, bold design and striking petals of the cake.
Then there’s the fashion. An extravagant confection of ruffles, the tulle dress by Millia London exudes the playful vibe, while the sleek jumpsuit and bohemian gown adorned with tassels, lace and angel sleeves – both handcrafted in Devon by Dandelions & Pearls – encapsulate the ‘70s in head-turning style. Add an embroidered fedora, a striking mother of pearl crown and, of course, some disco sparkle on the eyes – and you have one party-ready bridal look. Completing the scene, the bridesmaid dons a gorgeous warm orange dress while the groom looks every inch the retro-cool man of the moment in a sharp maroon suit, bold print and tasselled loafers. A party to remember begins here!
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The iconic fashions, the infectious grooves, the galaxy of glitter balls – the ‘70s disco era makes an irresistible wedding theme for a party-loving pair. In this styled shoot, a tipi from World Inspired Tents makes a coolly laidback setting for a retro celebration, the warm hues of the canvas perfectly in keeping with the ‘70s colour palette of brown, rust, gold and mustard, interspersed with hues of pink and maroon.
feature | STYLING | DISCO INFERNO 22 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
DISCO INFERNO23
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Styling & coordination Knots & Kisses knotsandkisses.co.uk Photography Melanie Barnfield melaniebarnfieldphotography.com Tipis World Inspired Tents worldinspiredtents.co.uk Videography Capture Weddings captureweddings.co.uk Flowers Brompton Buds bromptonbuds.com Cake Daisy Molly & Me daisymollyandme.com Furniture for dining World Inspired Tents worldinspiredtents.co.uk South West Event Hire southwesteventhire.co.uk Casual furniture & props The Natural Hire Company thenaturalhirecompany.co.uk Hair Natalie Nichols Bridal instagram.com/natalienicholsbridal Make-up Makeup by Zoe L makeupbyzoel.co.uk Boho dress & jumpsuit Dandelions & Pearls dandelionsandpearls.com Tulle ruffle dresses Millia London millialondon.com Veils & hats Rebecca Anne Designs rebeccaannedesigns.co.uk Hair accessories & jewellery The Lucky Sixpence theluckysixpence.co.uk Rings Erin Cox Jewellery erincox.co.uk Molten Wedding Ring Company moltenweddingringcompany.com Tableware Keeping It Vintage keepingitvintage.co.uk Cutlery Amor Décor amordecorevents.co.uk Linen 88 Events 88events.com Flags Event Flag Hire eventflaghire.co.uk Models Layal instagram.com/_luluak Latisha instagram.com/iamlatisha_model Jarrakeh instagram.com/jarrakeh DISCO INFERNO25
MODERN CLASSICS
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And, with a new designer launching at the boutique in November – keep your eyes on our website for updates – you can look forward to a captivating collection of bridal wear at this very special boutique. theivorylounge.co.uk
words Rebecca Matthewswed’s wish list
style | wed’s WISH LIST
The rails are awash with gorgeous choice for brides seeking fashion-forward designs through to timeless style. World-celebrated designer Vera Wang Bride is a favourite at the boutique, the curated collection offering clean lines and bold ballgowns through to romantic silhouettes dripping with beads and elegance.
The new collection from British bridal brand Ellis Bridals will be joining Vera Wang Bride over the coming months, with a trunk show taking place from 28th - 30th October. Beloved by brides for their classically romantic gowns with a contemporary twist, the new collection promises everything from sleek, minimalist styles and dreamy A-lines cloaked in soft lace to off-the-shoulder cuts crafted in luxurious fabrics.
Located in the heart of Plymouth, The Ivory Lounge oozes style and luxury, making a shopping trip to the boutique an experience to remember.
From dreamy dresses to seriously chic shoes, here’s our pick of the latest bridal must-haves
Also arriving at the boutique, the new collection from Kelsey Rose offers a swoon-worthy selection of looks for cool-girl brides. From the boho luxe flutter sleeves and chiffon skirt of Sicily to the chic lines, open split and tassel detailing of Brooklyn, the collection is brimming with individual and effortlessly chic designs. Don’t miss the upcoming trunk show on 23rd and 24th September and a special sale weekend (date TBC).
SOLEMATES
sophiawebster.com
wed’s WISH LIST
prettysmithybridal.co.uk
A bridal emporium positively brimming with designer gowns for brides of all shapes and styles, a visit to Pretty Smithy Bridal is quite simply a must on your wedding to-do list. Also boasting a host of options for budget-savvy brides with an off-the-peg and sale collection, the Paignton boutique promises extensive choice from a range of designers such as GAIA Bridal, Lilly, Millie May and Brighton Belle, with gowns ranging from seductive fishtails and classic ballgowns to retro tea-length frocks, ethereal styles and minimalist cuts.
SOMETHING PRETTY
A firm favourite with Devon brides for their free-spirited dresses, fusing boho-chic vibes and achingly beautiful lace, Wilderly Bride’s eagerly awaited new collection arrives at the boutique in the autumn. Filled with soft laces and statement detailing, we particularly love the delicate lace bodice and tulle skirt of Scout and the trailing tulle sleeves of Haddie.
The new bridal collection from Sophia Webster is a dream for brides seeking fanciful footwear. We love the studded bow and crystal butterfly of the Leah sandal and the pearly heels of the Natalia Perla sandal. Then there’s the signature Chiara sandal which has been elegantly updated with embroidered wings and pearls. Swoon!
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Specialising in curvy bridal wear from designers Millie Grace, True Curve, Angel B Curve and White Rose Graceful, the boutique will soon be welcoming a selection of new dresses from True Curve’s Zephyr collection – expect gorgeously flattering cuts, soft A-line skirts, intricate floral laces and hints of sparkle in the romantic new collection.
Made from 95% recycled satin, a luxe, fluid fabric that drapes effortlessly like liquid over the body, the flattering dresses are available in an earthy colour palette comprising copper, gold, moonshine white, dusty rose pink and mossy green. Exuding a relaxed glamour, your ‘maids will want to wear these dresses again – and again.
MAID IN HEAVEN
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style | wed’s WISH LIST
Some beautiful new gowns have arrived at the rails of Exeter boutique Pirouette with the onset of autumn – and they tick some of the top trends in bridal fashion while exuding timelessly beautiful style.
TRUE ROMANCE
graceloveslace.co.uk
Renowned for their signature romantic design, the latest Maggie Sottero gowns continue to mix modern and vintage elements with a hint of high glamour. The latest arrivals include Mindel, a fairytale floral lace gown perfect for a garden wedding, Paxton, a chic and simple A-line with pockets, and – our favourite – Sahar, a dream gown with a plunging neckline and tulle skirt scattered with
pirouettethecollection.com
Jennings by Rebecca Ingram, a gown with soft draping and featherlight chiffon perfect for a boho princess, and Kingsley by Sottero & Midgley, a showstopping design with a keyhole back and exquisite floral lace. Make an appointment at the unique boutique, located in the 16th century The House That Moved in Exeter’s historic West Quarter, to try on one of these head-turning designs.
There’spearls.also
Seeking effortlessly beautiful bridesmaids’ dresses? Australian designer Grace Loves Lace has launched their Amavi collection, a collection of classic slip dresses as well as their much-loved Anya gown in new colourways.
Fashion is more than fabric: what you wear impacts on how you feel, how you carry yourself and how you interact with the world. And when it comes to the most important piece of clothing you’ll ever wear –your bridal gown – your choice will determine how you feel throughout your wedding day.
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Whether it’s fashionforward or relaxed romance, find a dress that truly reflects who you are
Ellis Bridals, The Ivory Lounge style | DRESSES | WHAT’S YOUR BRIDAL STYLE?
words Hannah May
Today’s bridalwear is all about embracing individualism, offering fashion-forward designs that can be styled to ensure you feel like yourself while being on-trend. And the beauty is that you don’t have to confine yourself to just one look. The latest collections offer everything from timeless wonders with modern appeal to statement frocks and fabulously fluid fashion in the form of detachable, transformational and custom-made elements begging to be reworn time and time again.
We’ve divided some of the latest gowns in Devon’s boutiques into four categories to help you decide on your style personality and find ‘the one’ to match.
WHAT’SYOURBRIDALSTYLE?
MaggiePirouetteSottero,
Minimalism continues its stronghold over fashion houses, with sharp tailoring, bridal suits and impeccable cuts all contributing to the clean aesthetic. Silhouette-wise, slinky and body-con styles such as sheaths, fitted mermaids, and fit-and-flares all accentuate the timeless femininity of the hourglass, with A-lines and pleated styles adding extra volume and shape.
Maggie PirouetteSottero,
Ballgowns are back with aplomb, ranging from elegant satin Mikado dresses to tiered, tulip and princess skirts, while the surge in demand for Regency wear sees empire gowns as one of the most-wanted frocks of the moment for brides seeking a traditional yet on-trend look.
Brides with a penchant for vintage and glamourchic styles will find an assortment of gowns to pick from, merging modern design features with classic cuts and flattering silhouettes. From pared-back and perfectly fitting to plain styles begging for customisation with an oversized back bow, lightas-air overskirt, floral belt or mock neck lace top –classic meets contemporary to showstopping effect.
Classic
Sottero & Midgley, Pirouette
Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal
Ellis Bridals, The Ivory Lounge
WHAT’S YOUR BRIDAL STYLE? - CLASSIC
Sottero & Midgley, Pirouette
True PrettyCurves,Smithy Bridal
Want to embellish? Pearl detailing is de rigueur everywhere from the bodice to the veil, shoes and jewellery; or if you wish to inject some colour – blue is back with a beautiful vengeance.
Vera Wang Bride, The Ivory Lounge
Ellis Bridals, The Ivory Lounge
Ellis Bridals, The Ivory Lounge
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Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal
Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal
Vera Wang Bride, The Ivory Lounge
Sottero & Midgley, Pirouette
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Layers of mixed materials and detailing add to the multidimensional essence of the ‘more is more’ fashionista’s wedding wardrobe, including textured 3D elements, dramatic drapery and sculptural silhouettes.
Fashion-forward
Attention-grabbing styles are all part of the maximalist movement currently taking wedding world by storm. Whether you’re a fan of the flamboyant or prefer haute couture, there’s an abundance of styles to pore over.
Vera Wang Bride, The Ivory Lounge
Vera Wang Bride, The Ivory Lounge
Anything voluminous or with an ‘80s flavour including supersized (detachable) puff sleeves, giant bows, flounces and cascades, big skirts and dramatic trains are all gracing the runways, oozing high-octane romance with voguish edge.
Elysian Bridal, St Ives Bridal Boutique
Then there’s embellishment in the form of crystal-encrusted gowns, rhinestone embroideries, sequins, shimmering beadwork and head-totoe floral prints alongside shocks of colour and black accents. Meanwhile, there’s nothing quite like a LWD (little white dress) to steal the spotlight, with the latest micro minis causing quite the sartorial stir.
style | DRESSES | WHAT’S YOUR BRIDAL STYLE? - FASHION-FORWARD
Kelsey Rose, The Ivory Lounge
Relaxed Romance
Relaxed styles naturally assert an air of romance, with silhouettes, fabrics, and design features all falling on the looser side for a breezy and more laidback bridal look.
style | DRESSES | WHAT’S YOUR BRIDAL STYLE? - RELAXED ROMANCE
Maggie PirouetteSottero,
Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal
Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal
Freda Bennet, Kate Walker Bridal
Kelsey Rose, The Ivory Lounge
Think sheer features, cut-outs and floral accents alongside nouveau laces and the softest tulles, chiffons and crepes for the most swoon-worthy of ensembles. Playful meets practical with pockets, jackets, jumpsuits and shorter, dance-ready hemlines; and for brides seeking something a little more sexy, there’s plenty of thigh-high splits, corsetry, deep plunging necklines and skin-baring styles (backless bodices, flossing, crop tops) to pick from.
Meanwhile, separates and two-pieces are the ultimate in relaxed bridal wear, allowing you to mix and match your favourite items (and incorporate a sneaky dress change amongst proceedings) to curate an individual look, with detachable pieces such as sleeves, overskirts, collars, belts, trains and sweeping capes all having the same spectacularly transformational effect.
Olivia Rose, Kate Walker Bridal
Kelsey Rose, The Ivory Lounge
Kelsey Rose, The Ivory Lounge
34 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Olivia Rose, Kate Walker Bridal
Rebecca PirouetteIngram,
Wilderly Bride, Pretty Smithy Bridal
Wilderly Bride, Pretty Smithy Bridal
WHAT’S YOUR BRIDAL STYLE? - RELAXED ROMANCE
StattonTara
Kate Walker, Kate Walker Bridal
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Though cottagecore designs ooze understated pastoral style, as ever – it’s all in the details. Add feathers, fringing, a hint of sparkle, and ocean-inspired detailing such as intricate, seaweed-esque embellishment, scalloped edge laces and blue and green tinges for majestic boho-meets-beach style.
Flowing skirts in featherlight and floaty fabrics (georgette, chiffon, tulle and organza) epitomise modern boho, which has also received a retro twist through glam ‘70s-inspired silhouettes and ‘20s flapper style drop waists.
If a nod to nature with an effortless, carefree vibe is something that piques your stylistic interest, then channel your inner bohème with the latest ethereal confections.
Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns Stockists Kate Walker Bridal katewalkerbridal.co.uk Pirouette pirouettethecollection.com Pretty Smithy Bridal prettysmithybridal.co.uk St Ives Bridal Boutique stivesbridalboutique.co.uk The Ivory Lounge theivorylounge.co.uk style | DRESSES | WHAT’S YOUR BRIDAL STYLE? - BOHO
Rebecca Ingram, Bliss Bridal Gowns Sottero,MaggiePirouette Fearnley,KateBoutiqueBridalIvesSt Rose,KelseyLoungeIvoryThe Kelsey Rose, The Ivory Lounge Midgley,&SotteroPirouette Kelsey Rose, The Ivory Lounge Rebecca PirouetteIngram, Maggie PirouetteSottero, Wilderly Bride, Pretty Smithy Bridal Rebecca PirouetteIngram, 36 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
A blossoming of blooms via floral lace and appliqués, ditsy florals, 3D buds and botanical detailing including colourful floral prints sees the garden come to life through pretty-as-a-picture bridal wear.
Boho
Tips, trends and top products for beauty junkie brides wed’s boudoir
scent of the sea
Whether you’re a wild swimming devotee or simply love the scent of the seashore, the limited edition Wild Swimming collection from Jo Malone offers a sublime selection of scents for sea-loving souls. The collection includes fresh Crystal Campion, sensual Salty Amber, earthy Forest Moss and refreshing Aqua Lemon. You could even scatter the Wood Sage & Sea Salt candles around your reception to bring the scent of a windswept walk along the beach to your celebrations. jomalone.co.uk
Any product that promises to wake up tired skin instantly grabs our attention – and Boost Up from Trinny London delivers on tackling a dull complexion and more. The ultimate morning boost for your skin, the formula contains a potent 30% dose of Vitamin C – a powerhouse ingredient for restoring radiance and evening out skin tone while creating a protective shield from environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays. Layer on the luxe balm every morning for brighter, glowing and wedding-ready skin. trinnylondon.com
lip service
body talk
regular | wed's BOUDOIR
words Rebecca Matthews
glow getter
We love everything about the new firming body moisturiser from green beauty pioneers Olverum: the velvety texture, the subtle fragrance and the luscious blend of high-quality essential oils and botanical extracts designed to deeply moisturise and firm the skin by boosting cell renewal and collagen production. Combining the potent likes of crowberry extract, papaya enzyme and meadowfoam oil, slather this lush potion on those areas where you need it most – or all over – for toned and moisturised skin that feels soft, supple and restored. uk.olverum.com
Inlight Beauty has done it again. The innovative Cornwall-based skincare brand prides itself on their fine blends of 100% organic plant-based ingredients – and their lip serum continues their run of extraordinarily effective beauty must-haves. With a blend of bio-active plant extracts – think sea buckthorn oil, rose hip oil and calendula extract – the serum plumps, nourishes and restores natural fullness to the lips. Apply regularly throughout the day for best results – it also works beautifully underneath lipstick. inlightbeauty.co.uk
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PIROUETTESetinthehistoricWestQuarter,Pirouettehasit’shomeinthefamousHousethatMoved.WehavebeendressingBridesforover30yearswithfabulousdesignerlabelsandofferaprivateappointmentandbespokealterationservice.01392432643www.pirouettethecollection.com The House That Moved 24 West Street, Exeter, Devon EX1 1BA pirouettethecollection@gmail.com
feature | ACCESSORIES | VEILED TALE The classic bridal accessory has received an upgrade in the form of script, stars, floral embroidery and bespoke detailing Daisy Sheldon An exquisite heirloom in the making, Daisy Sheldon weaves love and personal details into her handcrafted veils in her signature delicate, ethereal and oh-so romantic style. daisysheldon.co.uk VEILED TALE PhotographyWhiteLouPhotographyWhiteLouPhotographyWhiteLou ImagesAustinMattImagesAustinMatt 40 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Gibson Bespoke
In her mission to “reclaim the veil”, Rebecca Anne Designs’ contemporary veils include everything from flowers, stars and pearls to your chosen words, lyrics, names or dates. rebeccaannedesigns.co.uk
Kamila Nowak Photography 41
Each handcrafted creation from Gibson Bespoke is a work of art to be treasured for generations to come, her designs ranging from exquisite veils dotted with silk flowers to snowflakes and swallows. gibsonbespoke.co.uk
Rebecca Anne Designs
she’s the one 42 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
feature | STYLING | SHE’S THE ONE
From wow-worthy ballgowns and minimalist cuts to the dreamiest embellishment, prepare to fall in love with the Vera Wang Bride collection at The Ivory Lounge, captured in the elegant climes of Bovey Castle photography Martyn Norsworthy
SHE’S THE 43ONE
feature | STYLING | SHE’S THE ONE 44 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
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feature | STYLING | SHE’S THE ONE 46 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
SHE’S THE ONE Location Bovey Castle boveycastle.com Photography Martyn Norsworthy Weddings Dressesnorsworthyweddings.com Vera Wang Bride, The Ivory Lounge theivorylounge.co.uk Flowers H. Watts Florist hwattsflorist.co.uk Jewellery Michael Spiers michaelspiers.co.uk Hair Leah McShane Make-upinstagram.com/hairstylist_leahmcshane Lauren Crossley Modelsinstagram.com/laurencrossley_mua Jenna Melissa instagram.com/jennamelissa123 Ayden Hurst 47
Michael Spiers’ bestselling Mikimoto Morning Dew collection is awash with timeless classics, featuring the highest quality cultured pearls with the sparkle of diamonds, perfect for wearing from daytime through to the evening celebrations. Meanwhile, the Mikimoto Bubble Collection comprises Akoya cultured pearls and diamonds clustered together to mimic delicate bubbles floating and glistening slowly in the air.
Pearls are everywhere in wedding world this year – and the pearlcore trend is set to be even bigger in 2023. Perfect for weddings, pearls have long been associated with purity, humility and innocence, and according to one tradition, wearing pearls on your wedding day is thought to ensure a happy marriage.
feature | JEWELLERY | BE JEWELLED 48 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
FOR THE LOVE OF PEARLS
From lustre-rich pearls to remodelled treasures, prepare to be captivated by these aisle-ready creations
Michael Spiers is home to an exquisite collection of Mikimoto pearls, ranging from lustrous earrings to dainty necklaces. Since Kokichi Mikimoto successfully created the world’s first cultured pearls in 1893, Mikimoto has been seeking to harness the allure of pearls, crafting the most beautiful pearl necklaces for over 120 years in an ethically responsible way with a focus on environmental sustainability.
be
A gorgeous idea for a bridal gift, these exquisite jewels are sure to become family heirlooms, captivating generations to come with their exceptional lustre. michaelspiers.co.uk jewelled
words Rebecca Matthews
Working with clients to turn their old-fashioned or unwanted precious jewellery into timeless modern pieces is a wonderful way to create new bespoke jewellery that retains a sense of sentimentality in an environmentally friendly way. Gold bands can be smelted down and reformed, utilising old gemstones or Corrinne can source sustainable precious gems to enhance the piece further.
The process will start with an appointment in which Corrinne will look at the pieces required for remodelling and discuss the various options. She will then create a series of designs and sketches from which to choose from and, once a selection has been made, a quotation and timescale will be presented. Hand engraving is an option to further personalise your piece and Corrinne keeps a diary of the process which is passed onto the customer on completion as a keepsake. With each piece presented in a beautiful Eira Evans handcrafted box, this is a beautiful option for creating bespoke engagement and wedding jewellery – a personal treasure that can be cherished for years to come.
BE JEWELLED49
Handcrafting a signature range of engagement and wedding rings alongside a host of other pieces including earrings, necklaces and cufflinks, Justin uses a mixture of recycled and ethically sourced mate rials, transforming them into wearable pieces of miniature art. Couples can have their weddings bands cast in the sand from a special beach, have vintage or heirloom items reworked into bespoke rings, or pick something that personally stands out from Justin’s everevolving collection, including his new ‘Off the Benchpeg’ range.
If you’re seeking distinctive jewellery with ethical credentials imbued with meaning, then cast your eye over the collection of designer-maker Justin Duance.
Contact Corrinne by email on info@corrinneeiraevans.com or pop into Moon & Moor Gallery in Okehampton’s Victorian Arcade. corrinneeiraevans.com
Creating unique, contemporary jewellery from her gallery Moon & Moor in Okehampton on the edge of Dartmoor, Corrinne Eira Evans is well versed in recreating bespoke pieces from unworn heirloom jewellery.
SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW
ONE OF A KIND
Brimming with ready-made jewellery, this section of Justin’s website is perfect for anyone seeking a unique piece without the usual six-eightweek lead time. Featuring a plethora of one-offs along with some experimental pieces, peruse the likes of rugged rough gemstone rings using sapphires in their natural form set into precious metal, as well as a collection of one-of-a-kind sandcast pendants – with some even featuring hand-cut quartz from the beaches of west Cornwall. justind.co.uk
OCEAN TREASURES
Statement-making crowns are amongst the highlights, from a showstopping mother of pearl spike crown to a floral twig crown in a glorious range of gold tones, glass diamantes and Swarovski crystals. There are also pearl and diamante halos, headbands, head chains and scatter pins designed to layer and mix and match with each other or with Janie’s one-off pieces crafted from vintage finds. The capsule collection means you can pick and choose elements to build your own
Beach goddess brides seeking ocean-inspired jewels to complete their W-day look should feast their eyes on the sublime creations by Koko Tala Designs.
Eye-catchinglook.
earrings are still a huge trend in bridal fashion and Janie’s creations range from crystal-encrusted hoops and shoulder-grazing mother of pearl pieces to blossom earrings cascading with shimmering freshwater pearls – a perfect pairing for the new collection gowns winging their way to the boutiques.
Based in North Devon, designer-maker Georgia Hinkley draws on her coastal surrounds to inspire her environmentally conscious jewellery, handcrafting the pieces using semiprecious stones, freshwater pearls and shells with eco silver, gold plated or gold filled components. The collection includes hoops and necklaces dangling with pearls and shells to dainty studs and rings inspired by the treasures of the North Devon seashore. kokotaladesigns.co.uk
SO-COOL JEWELS
Lovingly handmade in her Devon studio, each limited edition piece is created from upcycled vintage and pre-loved materials sourced from small, independent and – whenever possible – local businesses, meaning that earth-friendly ethics are at the core of the production process. theluckysixpence.co.uk
feature | JEWELLERY | BE JEWELLED
PhotographyWilliamsLeesha
PhotographyStokesPhillyPhotographyStokesPhilly 50 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
PhotographySharpeHannah
Seeking a dazzlingly distinctive piece to complete your bridal ensemble? Devon-based designer-maker Janie Wolverson of The Lucky Sixpence specialises in standout accessories for brides who are keen to break away from the traditional bridal mould and – thanks to the launch of some new pieces on her website – brides-to-be have a captivating choice of seriously special creations.
PhotographyWatsonLuciePhotographyGoffKatie
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From ornate Victorian style to bold art deco design, our love affair with timeless and romantic style is an enduring one – and jewellers are experiencing a surge in demand for pieces with a nostalgic twist.
Pairing a brilliant cut diamond and diamond halo, this romantic design from Drakes is rich in vintage
Dating back to the reign of King Louis XV of France in the 18th century, the marquise cut is back in the spotlight. This striking style is from Drakes.
1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 2. 2. 3. 3. 2.3. 52 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
If you’re drawn to the timeless beauty of antique and vintage rings, prepare to fall in love with these exquisite designs inspired by the beauty of bygone days
words Rebecca Matthews
texture which pairs perfectly with the organic nature of the vintage diamonds.
a renewed interest in yellow and rose gold, the team at Drakes has noticed an increasing number of couples opting for two-stone rings. “These are unusual but growing in popularity,” says Nicola. “We have a small collection of two-stone diamond and gemstone rings.” Also look out for halo designs, pavé set diamonds and millgrain detailing for a ring which honours the romantic designs of the past.
something old with something new, we love the idea of creating a modern design with a vintage diamond from Justin Duance.
1. Drakes drakesjewellers.co.uk
2. Erin Cox erincox.co.uk
Combiningappeal.
You might be lucky enough to find a one-of-a-kind vintage or antique ring – or even an heirloom piece charged with sentimentality, which can be reworked to create a ring tailored to you. “Some customers choose to wear a treasured family ring passed down from loved ones,” explains Nicola Luscombe at Drakes. “You can choose whether to have the ring resized, serviced and cleaned or work with our team to remodel it using the existing metal and stones, creating a ring you will treasure for years to come.”
Symbolising loyalty and new beginnings, this dazzling emerald ring by Erin Cox is rich in vintageinspired romance.
ENDURING LOVE
You may choose to combine something old with something new by having a modern ring made with a vintage diamond. Justin Duances houses a stunning collection of these age-old stones. “Each vintage diamond is completely individual,” explains Jamila Hirtenstein at Justin Duance. “Customers can choose one of these unique stones and have it crafted into a design of their choice.” You may also have your ring cast in sand from your favourite beach, creating a
From the round brilliant cut diamonds to the millgrain edging, this ring from Drakes twinkles with timeless beauty.
Alongsidesetting.”
And then, of course, there’s a dazzling choice of vintage-inspired designs. “We’d recommend looking for something unusual such as a cluster set, stones set into the band or even a piece with coloured gemstones rather than diamonds,” advises Nicola at Drakes. “As well as engraving which can be added to your chosen design, yellow and rose gold brings a vintage feel to a ring, even those with a modern
3. Justin Duance justind.co.uk
feature | RINGS | ENDURING LOVE
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54 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk hello@tipispaces.co.uk 01884 277306 www.tipispaces.co.uk Exceptional events deserve extraordinary tipi spaces Your Perfect Wedding on The Coast The Venue has stunning exclusivity with breathtaking views across the sea, Atlantic coast & Exmoor ... boasting bi fold doors across the full front of the building the outside it brought in ... the perfect setting for amazing photos and memories. The Venue at Sandy Cove, Berrynarbor, North Devon, EX34 9SR E: weddings@sandycove-hotel.co.uk T: 01271 882243 www.sandycove-hotel.co.uk
feature | WHEN THE PARTY’S OVER
It’s called a ‘big day’ for a reason, and part of that is the build-up… weeks, month or even years of wedding planning. But once the party is over, the planning – and the excitement and anticipation that comes with it – will come to an end too. You may have found the process wonderful: flicking through glossy magazines, pinning inspiration from across the globe and booking appointments in boutiques where you’re welcomed like a queen. But once the final piece of confetti has fluttered to the ground and the last air kiss has been blown into the future, this all stops.
book. “You may already have a guest book with all your loved ones’ messages in,” says Jenny. “You can add other elements from the day into it such as a menu card, confetti or a dried flower from your bouquet.” Perhaps ask everyone to bring something with them for the book or to add a special memory from the day.
Wedding planning can be all-consuming, so how do you fill that void after the big day has passed?
“Many of our brides say they miss the planning once the wedding day has passed,” says Jenny Granlund of Jenny Wren Weddings & advises.forwardforis(jennywrenweddingsandevents.co.uk).Events“Thisunderstandableasit’sbeenacreativeoutletmonths.Buttherearelotsofthingstolookto,tokeeptheweddingbuzzalive,”she
PICTURE THIS
WHAT COMES NEXT
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Remember, you might not be the only one who misses planning. Parents, in-laws, siblings and friends have likely been involved too, so you could gather a little group of those who had key jobs on the day and ask them to help you create a wedding keepsake
Firstly, recognise the slump and know that other people may feel it too. The good news is that, for the newly-weds, wedding planning quickly becomes replaced with married bliss! Don’t underestimate the excitement of using the phrase ‘my husband’ or ‘my wife’ for the first few times, or happily dropping ‘on-our-wedding-day’ moments into conversation. There’s also the honeymoon and the wedding album to keep you occupied.
Thank you notes are another way to reconnect with the day and enjoy DIY wedding tasks to help ease you out of the planning lull. “Ensure you make a note of which gift was from which guest so you can include a personal message in each card,” says Jenny.
Your photographs are a great way to immerse yourself in wedding memories and ward off any empty feelings. “Your photographer will be busy with the post-production of your photographs,” says Jenny. “When these land in your inbox, put an evening aside for just the two of you; buy a bottle of your favourite wine and some snacks. Put the photos on a slideshow and enjoy reliving the day together. The photographs will probably be ordered as the day unfolded – the first part is always fun if you were apart on the morning of the wedding as you will see what the other one was up to!”
words Elizabeth Chester WHEN THE PARTY’S OVER
“Try not to get hung up on what you’re missing and enjoy this time in your newly-wed bubble”
enjoy this time together. “The first few months as a newly-married couple are so special,” says Jenny. Make the most of this precious time by adding elements of fun and joy into everyday life, whether it’s taking a day trip, enjoying a special dinner at home or singing along to a new playlist together while you do your household chores; this will help set the scene for staying connected throughout your marriage. “Try not to get hung up on what you’re missing and enjoy this time in your newly-wed bubble,” concludes Jenny.
You can also make it easier to share your wedding inspiration. “If you wanted to share your wedding ideas and styling with the world, make your Pinterest board public for others to see. You could also add some of your own wedding photos in there to help inspire other brides,” advises Jenny.
LOOK ELSEWHERE
BE INSPIRED
If you jet straight off on honeymoon, you won’t even think about wedding planning while you’re exploring your chosen landscape, although you might find the slump back to earth from the dizzy heights of a back-to-back wedding and honeymoon even harder when you return. If so, try to bring something back from honeymoon, whether it’s a love of cooking, an interest in a new species of wildlife or simply a love of walking. You can then try to gently swap silk, lace and tulle for a new
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feature | WHEN THE PARTY’S OVER
Look into sending some photographs to your favourite wedding magazine or blog, and if your shots fit into their real wedding sections, you may soon see yourselves published online or in print. Then you’ll be able to relive the day all over again!
Talking of photographs, you have probably been posting wedding images on social media. Throwbacks are a great way of keeping memories alive. But if posting images of the big day is making you miss the planning even more, perhaps try to mix your posts of wedding throwbacks with more recent offerings like a new activity you’ve taken up or simply images of you both enjoying married life.
If you’re craving the organising and missing the feelgood factor of planning a wedding, try throwing yourself into something equally as time-consuming and even more worthwhile such as a charity cause. Organise a charity bike ride or sponsored walk with friends and family. You can even add decorations for the finish line or costumes… Hey, you can even throw a big party afterwards and, as we all know, that takes some planning!
If any of your friends and family are tying the knot, try to carefully navigate the landscape and see if you can be of help with their planning. “Advice from other brides is invaluable to those planning their wedding and you will have learnt so much from your own experience,” says Jenny. “There are also lots of forums and wedding planning groups online you could join.”
Andobsession!finally,
57 T: 01392 www.posh-nosh.co.uk444877From marquees, tipis and yurts to castles, forts and manor houses, we provide fabulous food and impeccable service to give your special day the wow factor! LUXURY WEDDING AND EVENT CATERING
feature | GROOMS | WORKING THE GROOM Top picks for the man of the moment words Rebecca Matthews WORKING THE GROOM NATURAL SELECTION If you’re keen to channel an effortlessly stylish look on your big day, then earth inspired hues are a brilliantly versatile choice. Perfect for a country wedding, look to the landscape for inspiration: think sage and forest greens, stone, sand, ochre and brown for a coolly close-to-nature vibe. Don’t be afraid to mix up your fabrics, patterns and colours. We love the simplicity of a threepiece suit in rich brown, a stone suit teamed with textured tonal accessories or sage green paired with warm touches of terracotta. Complete the look with an individual touch – perhaps a bracelet or buttonhole of feathers or dried flowers – and shoes in shades of brown, tan or caramel. 1. ASOS asos.com 2. Adam Waite adamwaite.co.uk 3. Twisted Tailor twistedtailor.com 4. Thomas Sabo thomassabo.com 5. Tateossian tateossian.com 6. Charles Tyrwhitt charlestyrwhitt.com 7. Tommy Hilfiger uk.tommy.com 8. Favourbrook favourbrook.com 9. Skopes skopes.co.uk 4. 1. 2. 3. 3.8.1.3. 5.5.4. 6. 7. 9.9. 58 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
SMOOTH OPERATOR Pack a debonair punch by donning something velvet for your big day. A particular lust-have for a winter wedding, the feel-me fabric can be coolly incorporated via a dinner jacket or worn head-to-toe for a lavish look. From classic black and slate grey to midnight blue, pick a palette to suit the venue or bridal party, or you can really elevate the look and stand out from your wedding party with a rich jewel tone – think emerald green, luscious burgundy or golden amber. 1. ASOS asos.com 2. Favourbrook favourbrook.com 3. Jaeger jaeger.co.uk 4. Twisted Tailor twistedtailor.com WORKING THE GROOM 3. FOR THE LOVE OF LOAFERS Whether you’ve opted for a two-piece or three-piece suit, a modern combo or something more classic, one thing’s for sure: you’re going to need the perfect shoes to finish the look – and you can’t go wrong with loafers. Easy to slip on and comfortable enough for dancing the night away, choose from leather, suede or, for a little luxe, go for velvet or patent leather. Or how about these standout two-tone styles for a fun, modern twist? 1. ASOS asos.com 2. Fairfax & Favor fairfaxandfavor.com BAND OF LOVERS Inspired by the wild beauty of Devon’s landscape, jewellery designer-maker Erin Cox crafts ethical and timeless wedding rings in yellow, white and red gold, platinum and Fairtrade gold. Available in a range of sizes and weights, each ring has a unique molten texture and can be customised through the engraving, shaping, diamond setting or finish of your choice, allowing you to combine your love of Devon with your love for your soulmate in the most covetable way. moltenweddingringcompany.com 1. 4.1.3. 2. 1.1. 2. 2.2. 2.2. PhotographyKinchinClare PhotographyKinchinClare PhotographyJaneJenniferNatalieHamiltonPhotographyPhotographyCollettEmily 59
Simply Breathtakingly Beautiful
Your dream wedding day is just around the corner and our award-winning
60 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk Whether you choose a civil wedding in our licensed hall or a church wedding five minutes walk away in C15th St Andrew’s Church, the timeless atmosphere of the Hall and Manor will make the setting for a great party. www.manorhallweddings.co.uk 07710 506 999 “It was a perfect day, no doubt enhanced by such a glorious setting” the great barn devon t: 01647 252552 e: info@thegreatbarndevon.co.uk www.thegreatbarndevon.co.uk
Devon
Small Hotel of Devon Tourism Awards K11852 Wedding Advert Update.indd 1 H l
Country House Hotel is the perfect place to host it. With 4 AA stars, 3 AA rosettes and a backdrop of Devon and Cornwall’s finest natural beauty, you couldn’t ask for a better setting. Your Big Day will be carefully tailored to your hopes and dreams, then served with fabulous food and plenty of special touches to make it all the more memorable. Your day, like no other. Call Julie and Emma on 01822 832528 and start planning your perfect day. Gulworthy, Tavistock, Devon PL19 8JD Nationalweddings@thehornofplenty.co.ukwww.thehornofplenty.co.ukSmallHoteloftheYear Visit England - Silver Winner 2015/16 Devon Small Hotel of Devon Tourism Awards K11852 Wedding Advert Update.indd 1 Whether you choose a civil wedding in our licensed hall or a church wedding five minutes walk away in C15th St Andrew’s Church, the timeless atmosphere of the Hall and Manor will make the setting for a great party. www.manorhallweddings.co.uk 07710 506 999 “It was a perfect day, no doubt enhanced by such a glorious setting” the great barn devon t: 01647 252552 e: info@thegreatbarndevon.co.uk www.thegreatbarndevon.co.uk Simply Breathtakingly Beautiful Your dream wedding day is just around the corner and our award-winning Country House Hotel is the perfect place to host it. With 4 AA stars, 3 AA rosettes and a backdrop of Devon and Cornwall’s finest natural beauty, you couldn’t ask for a better setting. Your Big Day will be carefully tailored to your hopes and dreams, then served with fabulous food and plenty of special touches to make it all the more memorable. Your day, like no other. Call Julie and Emma on 01822 832528 and start planning your perfect day. Gulworthy, Tavistock, Devon PL19 8JD Nationalweddings@thehornofplenty.co.ukwww.thehornofplenty.co.ukSmallHoteloftheYear Visit England - Silver Winner 2015/16 Devon Small Hotel of the Year Devon Tourism Awards 2014/15 Devon Wedding Venue of the Year South West Wedding Awards 2016 K11852 Wedding Advert Update.indd 1 26/04/2016 11:42 Whether you choose a civil wedding in our St Andrew’s Church, the timeless www.manorhallweddings.co.ukatmosphere “It was a perfect day, no doubt enhanced by such a glorious setting” the great barn t: 01647 252552 e: info@thegreatbarndevon.co.uk Simply Breathtakingly Your dream wedding day is just around the corner and our award-winning Country House Hotel is the perfect place to host it. With 4 AA stars, 3 AA rosettes and a backdrop of Devon and Cornwall’s finest natural beauty, you couldn’t ask for a better setting. Your Big Day will be carefully tailored to your hopes and dreams, then served with fabulous food and plenty of special touches to make it all the more memorable. Your day, like no other. Call Julie and Emma on 01822 832528 and start planning your perfect day. Gulworthy, Tavistock, Devon PL19 8JD Nationalweddings@thehornofplenty.co.ukwww.thehornofplenty.co.ukSmallHoteloftheYear Visit England - Silver Winner 2015/16
Your dream wedding day is just around the corner and our award-winning Country House Hotel is the perfect place to host it. With 4 AA stars, 3 AA rosettes and a backdrop of Devon and Cornwall’s finest natural beauty, you couldn’t ask for a better setting. Your Big Day will be carefully tailored to your hopes and dreams, then served with fabulous food and plenty of special touches to make it all the more memorable. Your day, like no other. Call Julie and Emma on 01822 832528 and start planning your perfect day. Gulworthy, Tavistock, Devon PL19 8JD Nationalweddings@thehornofplenty.co.ukwww.thehornofplenty.co.ukSmallHoteloftheYear Visit England - Silver Winner 2015/16 Devon Small Hotel of the Year Devon Tourism Awards 2014/15 Devon Wedding Venue of the Year South West Wedding Awards 2016 K11852 Wedding Advert Update.indd 1 26/04/2016 11:42 Whether you choose a civil wedding in our St Andrew’s Church, the timeless www.manorhallweddings.co.ukatmosphere “It was a perfect day, no doubt enhanced by such a glorious setting” the great barn t: 01647 252552 e: info@thegreatbarndevon.co.uk
Simply Breathtakingly
.com
A FAVOUR TO REMEMBER
words Rebecca Matthews
wed’s HIP LIST
Add a sweet and chic accent to your tabletops with the latest collection from Honeywell Bakes. Drawing inspiration from your wedding style and colour scheme, the creative team will design and handcraft your bespoke wedding biscuits which make gorgeous favours, place settings or gifts for the bridal party. From hand-painted flowers to marble and gold finishes, each biscuit is a mini work of art and comes in a range of delicious flavours from vanilla to gingerbread. honeywellbakes.com
Fresh, fun and fabulous ways to add a unique touch to your day
ART AND SOUL
First impressions count – and there’s nothing quite like gorgeously crafted stationery for setting the tone of your celebrations from the first clatter of the letterbox. Harriet de Winton of de Winton Paper Co. is an artist, watercolour teacher and creator of breathtakingly beautiful hand-painted wedding stationery. Each design starts life as a hand-painted watercolour artwork, whether you choose from one of her house collections or commission a bespoke suite replete with personal detail. As well as invitation suites, your design can carry through the on-the-day paper goods, from orders of service to menus, place cards, signage, personalised favours and even bespoke artworks to commemorate the day. dewintonpaperco.com
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SWEET ART
feature | wed’s HIP LIST
Creating beautifully designed booklets filled with personalised messages, photos and activities, CherryTop Weddings creates truly unique wedding favours to bring an extra dimension of fun and bonding to your big day. Launching a new range to tie in with 2023’s top design trends, choose from themes such as watercolour florals, art deco and minimalist alongside a range of fun activities inspired by your personalities and love story. cherrytopweddings
raspberry
feature | wed’s HIP LIST
feel
DESIGNER FIZZ
candelabras and tableware to lighting and
New additions to the range include textured
collection
GIFTS WITH HEART
pieces
reclaimed materials,
your tabletops.
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shades
INDUSTRIAL VIBES
delicious. B09ZYWXRKYamazon.co.uk/Vera-Wang-Prosecco-Sparkling-Celebrating/dp/
Seeking favours that help a good cause? We love the collection of pin badges from Cancer Research UK. From colourful Pride rainbows and sustainable wooden hearts to bumblebees and unicorns, there’s a theme to suit every wedding. With little packets of flower seeds also available, you can thank your guests in a unique and meaningful way whilst donating towards life-saving cancer research. shop.cancerresearchuk.org
Sup on a bubbly as stylish as your gown during the big day preparations, the drinks reception or whenever you feel like celebrating with Vera Wang Party, the new prosecco from the queen of bridal fashion herself. Created in the world-renowned vineyards of Vincenza, Italy, the sparkling white wine boasts citrus notes, hints of apple and stone fruit, and a soft and fruity finish, while the rosé blends notes of red berry, strawberry and –perfect for a summer wedding. What’s more, the wines come in matt silver bottles for a toast as strikingly chic as it is
items
terracotta and blue, cream and grey dinner plates
stone flower bricks – style them with soft, natural foliage to bring
Ethically sourced, lovingly made and strikingly beautiful, Glas Events’ collection of hire ensures a stylish celebration full of individual flourish. Produced using the of comprises everything from ceremony archways. tumblers in of and terracotta a coolly industrial to glasevents.com
63 www . badgersholtweddings . co . uk VENUE HIRE | INTIMATE WEDDINGS | ELOPEMENTS A fully licensed indoor & outdoor wedding venue, set alongside the ever-changing river Dart with its granite boulders and rugged natural beauty. We provide a rustic, intimate & relaxed Wedding Venue in the heart of Dartmoor for up to 100 guests. 15% DISCOUNT *for Nov, Dec, Jan & Feb weddings* Badgers Holt coombetrenchard.co.uk • sarah@coombetrenchard.co.uk • 01566 783179 • Coombe Trenchard, West Devon EX20 4PW PoppeAlexa&KinchinClareNorrington,VenetiabyPhotography An Exclusive Edwardian Country House Estate Unlike Any Other
The secluded gardens and dramatic climes of The Great Barn set the scene for an elegant modern wedding styled with lush greenery, dark accents and luxurious textures
luxe is in the air
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photography Katy Jones Photography styling & coordination Hyland Weddings & Events Glas Events
feature | STYLING | LUXE IS IN THE AIR
“Using greens as a base colour and layering this up with black and accents of gold made the overall look super modern, illustrating that darker colours can absolutely be used in weddings,” she continues. The waxy green of the monstera leaves and foliage, together with bamboo chairs and orchids, adds an exotic edge.
The rich combination of textures at the venue also provided inspiration for the details. “I love using different textures and wanted to include a variety through the veil and dresses as well as the fabrics on the table, the charger plates, candlestick holders and rippled wine glasses,” explains Natalie. “The surface of the cake also added to the shoot’s textural element.”
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Paired with a bouquet combining clusters of orchids and roses framed by greenery, the dresses exude contemporary elegance, from the delicate lace and cap sleeves to the full skirts. The earthy hue of the groom’s suit, meanwhile, pairs perfectly with the rich textures and tones of the setting, completing a captivating scene in this enchanting rural idyll.
Nestled amidst a leafy valley in a tranquil corner of south Devon, the setting of The Great Barn is nothing short of idyllic. Flanked by a pretty courtyard and picturesque gardens abloom with a carnival of colour in the warmer months, the restored 15th century barn is spectacular on the outside – and breathtakingly beautiful on the inside. The dramatic vaulted ceiling, vast scale and atmospheric lighting make for a stirringly romantic setting for a wedding –and a dream canvas for this modern styled shoot with elegant keynotes.
LUXE IS IN THE AIR
“I had an idea for a ceremony backdrop that was made entirely from greenery to frame the couple and make them centre stage without taking away the grandeur of the breathtaking doors that lead into The Great Barn. The vision grew from here,” explains Natalie Hyland of Hyland Weddings & Events, who styled and coordinated the shoot alongside Stacey Gray of Glas Events.
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feature | STYLING | LUXE IS IN THE AIR 68 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Flowers Brompton Buds bromptonbuds.com
Props, tableware & napkins Glas Events glasevents.com
Glassware, cutlery & leaf dishes Maison Margaux maisonmargauxltd.com
Groom’s shoes Twisk twiskshoes.com
Cake Claire Arscott Cake Design clairearscottcakedesign.co.uk
Hair EV Hair evhair.co.uk
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Videography Sparks Films sparks-film.co.uk
Table linen Special Occasion Linen specialoccasionlinen.com
Silks & runner C Fleurs Design instagram.com/cfleursdesign
Models Lauren instagram.com/laurenmariehill & Ben instagram.com/benmartingolf
Concept Hyland Weddings & Events hylandweddingsandevents.co.uk
Styling & coordination Hyland Weddings & Events hylandweddingsandevents.co.uk
LUXE IS IN THE AIR
Stationery Newport & Sage newportandsage.co.uk
Venue The Great Barn thegreatbarndevon.co.uk
Jewellery Erin Cox erincox.co.uk
Glas Events glasevents.com
Bridal shoes Harriet Wilde harrietwilde.com
Groom’s outfit Sharif Tailoring shariftailoring.co.uk
Seating Virginia’s Vintage Hire virginasvintagehire.co.uk
Veil Rebecca Anne Designs rebeccaannedesigns.co.uk
Dresses Sassi Holford sassiholfordtaunton.co.uk
Rings Molten Wedding Ring Co moltenweddingringcompany.com
Candles Candle Flair candleflair.com
Make-up Laura Le Page lauralepagebridalmakeup.com
Photography Katy Jones Photography katyjonesphotos.co.uk
feature | FOOD | FOOD FOR THOUGHT Add a memorable and flavour-packed punch to your day with these tasty trends words Hannah May FOOD THOUGHTFOR Kern of Kernow kernofkernow.co.uk, Photo: James Ram Photography 70 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Beautiful and the Feast
Woodfired Weddings
Introducing your guests to new flavours both locally
Couples are increasingly sourcing every element of their wedding as ethically and locally as possible – and wedding catering is no exception. Not only does choosing seasonal, local produce decrease your carbon footprint and support smaller businesses, your menu will be fresher and better tasting to boot! Check your
The wedding menu isn’t just about feeding your guests. Today’s catering trends revolve around the sensorial experience of eating: of how your menu looks, smells, tastes and feels.
We’ve picked out some of the latest wedding food trends to whet your appetite.
Going local
Your culinary choices can have a huge impact beyond sating hunger. Think about the best meals you’ve savoured and I’ll bet they involve something other than the food, such as an exotic locale, the company of your beloved or charismatic waiting staff.
Individual servings
Woodfired Weddings
and globally is a great conversation starter and way to inject extra personality. You might wish to take them on a tasting journey through the countries you’ve travelled to together, or simply share your favourite dishes – all of which will add to your day’s sense of love storytelling. Consider anything from caviar tastings to sushi flights and, of course, Cornish pasties and cream teas.
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Food tastings
Originating as a way to minimise contact during Covid, individual food servings continue to treat guests to their own, often customised, mini feast. It’s the ultimate way to consider and spoil each of your guests’ dietary requirements, and is especially effective for small and intimate weddings with an extra attention to detail. Think mini charcuterie boards, individual wedding cakes, miniature platters and micro picnics all presented with idiosyncratic panache.
With careful consideration of every element of the dining experience – from the setting and ambience to the presentation and edibles – couples are designing a gastronomic journey as beautifully bespoke as it is eye and mouth-wateringly good to eat.
Beautiful and the Feast
Beautiful and the Feast
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food’s provenance with your caterer and discuss your requirements or add extra local flavour and thoughtfulness by handmaking certain elements yourself, such as the jam for your cream tea, or inviting guests to make and bring their own dessert.
Dessert bars, tables and platters are all the rage as couples pique their guests’ palates with sweet aplomb. You could pick your favourite puddings or opt for an eclectic mash-up with the likes of mini doughnuts (or a doughnut wall), Belgian waffles, churros, cake pops, macaron towers, mini pies and tarts, croquembouche, trifles and Portuguese custard tarts, pastéis de nata.
Beautiful and the Feast
Beetham Food
Beautiful and the Feast
Photo: Clare Kinchin Photography
Dessert platters
Food trucks
Enhance the immersive effect of your menu by making every part of the dining experience as unique and pleasure filled as possible. It’s all about either transporting guests elsewhere or heightening where they are (or both!). So beyond the food itself, think about the entire experience: what will your guests be hearing, looking at and feeling? Pick a soundtrack to reflect the venue or food type (pair tapas with the Spanish guitar or play Ibiza chill-out tunes on the beach during a Mediterranean-style supper), and style the setting to match. You might recreate the Berber tents of Morocco with sheepskin rugs and leather pouffes while serving giant pots of tagine; hire a circus act, colourful crockery and folk band for your festival-themed menu; or arrange charcoal grills or portable stoves and floor seating for a Korean barbecue decorated with the country’s traditional wedding colours of blue and red.
Moomaid on Wheels, Photo: Lyra & Moth
feature | FOOD | FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Beautiful and the Feast
Set the mood
The perfect way to add an interactive element while allowing guests to individually choose their food (and drink) fancies, pop-ups, street food vendors and mobile catering allow greater freedom over what and when everyone eats. From burgers, wood-fired pizza and classic fish and chips to world foods like roti, Thai cuisine, tacos and Indian curry vans –there’s an array of lip-smacking options to ensure the most flavoursome wedding.
Add another dimension to your dessert course with an ice cream trike, cotton candy, coffee and Bundt cake van, adult sweetie table (think gourmet marshmallows, handmade Turkish delight and chocolate truffles, jars of mini familyrecipe cookies) or a help-yourself s’mores bar by the firepit.
Kern of Kernow, Photo: Thomas Frost Photography
73 holwellfarmhouse.co.uk | 07955 279779 | hello@holwellfarmhouse.co.uk
e perfect place to explore, escape and unwind.
Set amid 65 acres of breathtaking Devonshire farmland, sits the beautifully restored Grade II Listed Holwell Farmhouse.
The perfect setting for any wedding, accommodating between 11 and 16 guests in the farmhouse plus scope for glamping-style accommodation.
is a top-notch choice for a wedding. From the intense aromas of vanilla oak and mild tobacco to the fruity palate of cherry and plum blended with blackcurrant, strawberry and toasty oak, this elegant, award-scooping wine is bursting with mouthwatering flavour. wickhamwine.co.uk
words Rebecca Matthews
Perfect for drinking alone or with food, this crisp, clean, easy-drinking white is rounded off with sweet apricot and a subtle spice on the finish. Just delicious. wickhamwine.co.uk
Crowd-pleasing wines are a must at a wedding. Raise a glass with these Devon-made delights.
WINES
This exceptional Devon sparkling wine is sure to be talking point at your wedding. Grown and bottled on the Huxbear Estate – a small, fully sustainable vineyard in Devon’s Teign Valley – Huxbear Classic Sparkling is produced using the traditional method – and its fresh nose of green apples, hints of pineapple and fine bubbles make for a wow-worthy fizz. wickhamwine.co.uk
Lyme Bay Pinot Noir 2020
Huxbear Classic Sparkling 2018
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feature | FOOD | DEVON’S FINEST
From spirits and soft drinks crafted on Devon’s shores to cheese cakes stacked with locally made favourites, delight your guests with the county’s finest produce on W-day
Sharpham Summer Sparkling
Crafted from some of the finest fruit available in the UK and aged in 30% new oak, this Pinot Noir
DEVON’S FINEST
Gently fizzing with summer flavour, Sharpham Summer Sparkling is a fun and fruity option for a sundrenched celebration. Made in the traditional method blending characters of delicate red berry, crunchy red apple and pink grapefruit, it’s a light, refreshing and easy-drinking delight for the drinks reception or toast. sandridgebarton.com
Sharpham Dart Valley Reserve 2018
New London Light Aegean Sky
New London Light First Light
NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS
Crafted in small batches on their Devon farm, Luscombe’s multi award-winning organic drinks blend the finest quality whole fruits and wild ingredients with soft Dartmoor spring water. Bursting with fresh strawberries with a twist of Sicilian lemon and Madagascan vanilla, each lightly sparkling sip of their new Strawberry Bubbly captures the flavour of the English summertime. Serve over ice or paired with a premium spirit for a fabulously fruity wedding tipple.
Showcasing innovative flavour combinations crafted from the finest botanicals, the New London Light collection of non-alcoholic spirits and aperitifs from Salcombe Distilling Co. prove that alcoholfree doesn’t mean compromising on taste. Their award-winning First Light is a bold, refreshing blend of juniper, ginger, habanero, orange and sage. Serve with tonic water, an orange slice and sage leaf for a palate-pleasing alternative to a gin and tonic or head to the website for more delectable ideas.
Bottled at source from an ancient spring near Beeson in the South Hams, Devonia provides top-notch still and sparkling natural Devon spring water to ensure a delicious, local touch for your tabletops. What’s more, thanks to the company’s impressive sustainability credentials, the bottles will be collected to be washed and reused time and time again.
A vibrant blend from the New London Light collection, Aegean Sky is inspired by the Mediterranean coast: think sun-soaked bitter citrus, ripe olive and subtle floral notes. Pair with tonic for an exotic addition to your drinks menu.
Devonia Still and Sparkling Water
Some seriously special alcohol-free drinks are made in Devon, offering a fabulous choice for non-drinking guests.
Drawing on the wild Nordic regions for flavoursome inspiration, Midnight Sun is another stellar creation from the New London Light collection, combining hand-picked seaberries and elderberries together with kelp, elderflower and pine to create a delicate and complex tipple.
DEVON’S FINEST
An elegant, delicate and deliciously refreshing alternative to champagne, Luscombe’s Damascene Rose Bubbly blends Damascene Rose, Muscat grape juice and Sicilian lemons with sparkling Dartmoor spring water. Garnish with a strawberry and pair with canapés or light seafood dishes for sophisticated summer sipping.
luscombe.co.uk
devoniawater.co.uk
Luscombe Damascene Rose Bubbly
New London Light Midnight Sun
salcombegin.com
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luscombe.co.uk
Luscombe Strawberry Bubbly
Salcombe Brewery Co.’s Atlas
A blend of Salcombe Brew dark roast coffee beans and Cove Vodka, this rich and velvety coffee liqueur is a decadent delight for the tastebuds, whether you serve it over ice, in espresso martinis or the after-dinner coffees. devoncove.co.uk
Salcombe Gin Rosé Sainte Marie
A session IPA created from a winning combination of British, US and Australian hop varieties, this fruity ale blends flavours of peach, blueberry and papaya with a hoppy citrus finish and balanced bitterness. salcombebrewery.com
Hattiers Resolute Navy Strength Rum
Made using rums from Barbados, Australia, Guyana and Jamaica, this rum blends a toasted brown sugar and charred oak aroma with a fruity palate of pineapple, apple, banana and mango and a buttery pastry taste with notes of liquorice. Serve it neat or in a cocktail for a warming tipple.
SPIRITS
Salcombe Gin Start Point
feature | FOOD | DEVON’S FINEST
This stunningly smooth, light-medium bodied white rum combines an aroma of creamy fudge, vanilla pod and ripe pineapple with soft fruit notes. It makes an exceptional daiquiri or mojito and tastes delicious served neat or over ice. hattiers.com
Devon Cove – Cove Vodka
Sandford Orchards Katja
From the shores of the Caribbean to the coast of south Devon, Hattiers Rum blends hand-picked rums from across the globe with soft Dartmoor water to create an exceptional collection of spirits – and they’re just as delicious on the rocks as they are in your favourite rum cocktail. Fragrant and medium-bodied, Egremont is a premium sipping rum, delicious served neat, over ice or in cocktails – we love it in a Dark and Stormy or paired with a Westcountry cider for a warming winter punch.
Hattiers Eminence Blended Aged White Rum
Devon Cove – Cove Damson Liqueur
If you’re seeking an exceptional gin with a generous serving of Devon character and flavour, you can’t beat the multi awardwinning flagship gin, Start Point, from Salcombe Distilling Co. Inspired by the voyages of the Salcombe Fruit Schooners – ships built in Salcombe and Kingsbridge in the 19th century to carry fresh fruits and spices from around the world to English shores – this London Dry blends Dartmoor water with the finest botanicals to create a smooth, elegant and truly memorable G&T.
Choose these Devon-made drinks for some delectable liquid refreshment.
Some of the UK’s finest spirits are made in Devon. Here are some musthaves for your drinks menu.
Add ripe Westcountry damsons to Cove Vodka and the result? This ruby coloured, divinely fruity liqueur. Serve chilled alone or in champagne for a Devon take on a Kir royal.
Devon Cove – Cove Coffee Liqueur
AustinMatt 76 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Based in the oldest working cider mill in the UK, the family-owned Sandford Orchards in the heart of Devon has the perfect micro-climate to grow cider apples. Home to a range of ciders, Katja – a light, crisp, sparkling prosecco-style cider crafted from the dessert apple Katja – will make a deliciously refreshing welcome drink or toast. sandfordorchards.co.uk
Hattiers Egremont Premium Reserve Rum
CIDER & BEER
Grown in the rich soil and sea air of a family farm overlooking Hope Cove in south Devon, King Edwards potatoes are the key ingredient of Cove Vodka. Combined with Devon spring water to create the pure, clean and exceptionally smooth vodka, it’s divine served on its own, paired with your favourite mixer or in a cocktail. Pour it over ice with chilled soda water and a squeeze of fresh lime for a winning combo.
The perfect gin for a summer wedding, Rosé Sainte Marie from Salcombe Distilling Co. is inspired by the aromas and flavours of the Mediterranean coast. Notes of fresh citrus peels of lemon and orange meet rose petals, lemon verbena, orange blossom and pink peppercorns to create an exquisite gin. Pair with tonic water and a slice of strawberry or a twist of fresh lemon peel to delight your guests. salcombegin.com
Sweet-toothed guests will love these heavenly confections.
Quicke’s
CHEESE CAKES
DEVON’S FINEST
Willie’s Cacao
Sharpham Cheese Celebration Cakes
Sharpham Cheese
Since launching from a Devon kitchen in 2015, Flapjackery has taken the Southwest by storm with their deliciously buttery and crumbly takes on the humble flapjack paired with a range of toppings. As well as classic flapjacks, pick from the scrumptious likes of caramel latte, salted caramel brownie, clotted cream fudge and summer fruits crumble flavours. Handmade with wholesome, locally sourced ingredients, gift the award-winning treats as favours, add a personalised giant flapjack to your dessert table or arrange a selection box to be delivered for your bridal party to fuel the morning preparations! flapjackery.co.uk
From the heart of the Sharpham Estate on the banks of the River Dart, the headturning cheese cakes from Sharpham Cheese are individually crafted, shaped and aged from scratch: choose from a simple three-tier creation to an extravagant six-tier tower crowned with a heart-shaped cheese at the top. Tailored entirely to your tastes, you’ll be guided on choosing a balance of flavours from the award-winning cheeses, ranging from the velvety semi-hard Rustic to the silky Brie and the complex Washbourne sheep’s cheese. sharphamcheese.co.uk
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Crafted from ‘bean to bar’ from the finest single estate cacaos and 100% natural ingredients, Willie’s Cacao artisan chocolate is all about pure, beautiful flavours. From luscious truffles in flavours such as praline, raspberry and Marc de Champagne to salted caramel pearls in heavenly milk chocolate, dark chocolate and strawberry chocolate shells, Willie’s Devon-made creations make for decadent wedding favours. williescacao.com
Flapjackery
Forgo the sweet stuff in favour of a showstopping cheese celebration cake.
AustinMatt
SWEET TREATS
Crafted using traditional recipes and time-honoured techniques in an idyllic corner of the Devon countryside, Quicke’s clothbound cheeses are slow-matured to perfection - and their cheese cakes taste as delectable as they look. Choose from Quicke’s award-winning cheddars - favourites include the intensely flavoursome Vintage Cheddar and rich and buttery Mature Cheddar - paired with a delightful mixture of cheeses, from hard to sort, wrapped to blue. quickes.co.uk
Quicke’s Cheese Celebration Cakes
UNIQUE WEDDING PACKAGES & VENUE OPTIONS: edenproject.com/weddings | 01726 811950 © www.joeandcharlotte.wedding
FOUNDPARADISE
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.
feature | DRINKS | GOOD MIXERS
Recent years have seen a cocktail renaissance, resulting in more people recognising great cocktails and being willing to try something new. “Trusting your bar company is essential,” asserts Jo. “Have a chat with them to let them know what cocktails or spirits you both like so they can tailor a cocktail menu specific to what you and your guests will love.”
There’s nothing quite like a cocktail menu for stirring the party spirit, as Jo Fitch of The Buffalo (thebuffalo.co.uk) – the Southwest’s wow-worthy mobile Airstream bars – can testify. “We serve a fully stocked bar with wine, beer, bubbles, spirits, cider and soft drinks but the cocktails are by far the most popular when we rock up!” she says. “Guests have been waiting a long time for this day to come around and they are delighted when there is a whole host of great drinks available rather than just wine and beer options.”
Negroni
It might be over 100 years old, but today the negroni is all the rage everywhere from hip bars to coolly contemporary weddings. “It’s not to everyone’s taste, but those who appreciate it won’t be disappointed,” comments Jo. “Quality ingredients are particularly key when there are few ingredients in a cocktail and when it comes to the negroni this is essential. Use a great gin, vermouth and Campari, stir well and garnish with an expressed slice of orange peel rubbed round the rim.”
The Buffalo
words Rebecca Matthews
iStock.com/Plateresca 79
MIXERSGOODCocktailsareagreatwaytoaddasignature element to your reception while kick-starting the party. Jo Fitch of The Buffalo shares her top five for a modern wedding
From retro favourites with a modern spin to bubbly cocktails, bitter concoctions and non-alcoholic sips, there’s a dizzying choice of cocktails out there. To help you narrow down a crowd-pleasing selection for your menu, we’ve asked Jo to pick out some favourites for a modern wedding or, as she says: “Some which we have tried and tested and enjoyed so much that people keep coming back for more”.
A delicious pick-me-up, the espresso martini is fast becoming a key ingredient of a modern wedding and works particularly well after the meal to ward off the post-feasting slump. “It’s a classic but can be done so badly,” warns Jo. “When I go to a cocktail bar, the espresso martini is a good tester of how great their cocktails are. The key to this, again, is quality ingredients as, with only three ingredients, there’s not much to hide behind: you’ll need good vodka, real Kahlua and, most essential of all, awesome espresso.”
Invented in a pub in New Orleans during the second world war and made famous by the song It’s Five O’clock Somewhere, a hurricane is a long, fruity and super popular cocktail. “This is sunshine in a glass!” says Jo. “Rum-based with plenty of sweetness, it ticks a lot of boxes for a great cocktail experience and is a brilliant all-rounder for those who may be cocktail shy.”
Elderflower collins
Light and refreshing with delightful citrus notes, the whisky sour is another cocktail which is sure to wow the crowds. “At first, the word whisky may put people off, but hang on,” says Jo. “This is bourbon, our American friend with a sweeter finish than the Scotch whisky you may be familiar with. Tempered with lemon and sugar, it is much easier to drink than you would assume and, once tried, guests just can’t get enough.”
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The drinking usually begins soon after your guests arrive from the ceremony, so consider your welcome cocktail carefully and start with something to set the tone of your reception. “All our cocktails are a double measure of spirit but for a welcome drink we suggest you take it easy and offer something refreshing, light and fantastically delicious,” advises Jo. “Elderflower collins does this very well. If you’d prefer something bubbly, make it a bellini.”
Hurricane
Espresso martini
Whisky sour
feature | DRINKS | GOOD MIXERS
81 C L O V E R & F E R N W E D D I N G P L A N N I N G , C O O R D I N A T I O N A N D S T Y L I N G w w w c l o v e r a n d f e r n c o u k p h o e b e @ c l o v e r a n d f e r n c o u k 0 7 7 7 0 7 3 6 8 1 5 B e s p o k e p a c k a g e s t o s u i t y o u , i n c l u d i n g f u l l w e d d i n g p l a n n i n g , p a r t i a l p l a n n i n g , o n t h e d a y c o o r d i n a t i o n a n d v e n u e s t y l i n g C o n t a c t f o r a f r e e i n i t i a l c o n s u l t a t i o n : CAKES ‘Ourwww.porsham.co.ukcakesareallmadeanddecoratedbyhand,eachindividualleaf,laceworkdetailorpetalishandmadehereinourkitchenwithahighattentiontodetail’ E : I N F O @ G L A S E V E N T S C O M P : 0 7 5 6 8 0 5 5 5 2 0 W W W G L A S E V E N T S C O M Planning, Styling and Hire Industrial, contemporary & sustainable Luxury products with an eco conscious heart
82 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
the great outdoors
feature | THE GREAT OUTDOORS
From vows in a flower-filled garden to a first dance on the sand, there’s nothing dreamier than an outdoor wedding. Here’s some inspiration for going al fresco words Hannah May
Verity Westcott Photography
With last year’s announcement of the legalisation of outdoor civil wedding and partnership ceremonies in England for the first time (on approved premises) alongside a powerful cultural shift toward everything outdoors – al fresco weddings have never been more popular, especially for couples wanting to create a unique day rich in wild romance and sensorial detail.
Imagine taking your vows to the soundtrack of the sea or birdsong carrying through the treetops; schmoozing with your guests to a backdrop of woodland, clifftop or riverside; dining under open skies before dancing together under the stars... We can’t think of anything more blissful than an outdoor wedding.
Humanist, pagan, civil ceremonies and civil partnerships can all be enjoyed outdoors, with the non-legally binding varieties facing no restrictions at all regarding place should you dream of saying ‘I do’ with the sand between your toes or a river at your feet.
the venue’s natural features into the ceremony: for example, add a sand ceremony to your beachside pagan wedding, gather at the lakeside or wed under the giant oak at your licensed venue, or encircle the blooming rose or herb garden for a sweetly scented outdoor ceremony.
A get-together before the vows provides your guests with the perfect icebreaking prelude to your day, setting the scene and introducing each other while kick-starting the celebratory mood.
This gives you the chance to really show off your venue or select an outdoor space that you adore. If you’ve married in a religious building or an indoor venue due to the season or weather, relocating to an outdoor or semi-outdoor space (such as an open-sided marquee or arbour) for the drinks reception allows everyone a change of scene and breath of fresh air as the festivities commence.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
PhotographyWeddingNovaPhotographyWildeHannahThomasFrostPhotography 83
Pick ‘your’ place such as your favourite country retreat, where you became engaged or went on your first date – or opt for a venue that allows designated parts or every stage of your day to take place outside in keeping with your Incorporatevision.
If you have chosen an outdoor ceremony, the drinks reception can follow directly in the same area or slightly ‘off stage’ with an outdoor bar, mobile drinks and catering vans, canapés and live music whether it’s an acoustic band, singer or string quartet.
The drinks reception
Not only does the idea of place assume greater meaning, but a bespoke celebration is also guaranteed, since every detail can be individually designed at a personally picked location. You may wish to arrange a back garden wedding, host an open-air ceremony or plan an outdoor wedding from start to finish. Here’s some ideas to get you started.
Outdoor ceremonies are one of wedding world’s must-haves. And thanks to the recent legislation changes, couples can now officially tie the knot in a glorious variety of open-air spaces.
The ceremony
The pre-ceremony gathering
Weekend weddings allow the couple to greet guests the day or evening before the main event, and can take the form of a relaxed afternoon picnic and garden games, excursion or activities, or evening supper. If you’ve hired a venue for the entire weekend, then take advantage of all the spaces available by hosting dinner or afternoon tea in your marquee, or evening drinks on the lawn or courtyard. If not, then consider booking a space nearby or decamping to a wild spot for an activity like open water swimming followed by a barbecue, or a coastal walk to a pub with a scenic beer garden. Breakfast on the wedding day can follow a similar vibe and, if the weather doesn’t play ball, bring the outdoors in with hampers packed with fresh foodstuffs topped with posies of wildflowers.
The evening reception
THE PRAGMATICS
PhotographyFrostThomas
PhotographyFreckle
Access Ensure walkways are flat (and well-lit) for any wheelchair/pushchair users and young or old guests who may be unsteady on their feet.
When dusk falls and the air cools, it doesn’t mean that you have to move indoors. Part of the joy of an outdoor wedding is embracing every natural nuance from the landscape to the light and staging your evening reception outdoors can provide a magical
feature | OUTDOOR WEDDINGS
an awning, covered area or open-sided marquee complete with heaters and snug areas to keep guests warm. Outside, light firepits, scatter patio heaters and focus on lighting for extra ambience. Consider festoon and fairy lights alongside a range of candlelight (line paths with tea lights and surround seating areas with hurricane lamps), and fashion a gazebo or cushioned area slightly away from the action for a spot of stargazing.
Weatherproof Stock up on essentials for all weather scenarios with sunscreen, flip-flops, insect repellent, wellington boots and umbrellas. And, of course, make sure there’s somewhere under cover that’s decorated and ready to use should the weather take a sudden downturn. See our feature on p.92 for more ideas.
PhotographyKinchinClare
PhotographyWestcottVerity 84 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Whetherfinale.
Be creative with the layout, seating, décor and refreshments, and incorporate the natural scenery as much as possible into your choices to accentuate the open-air aspect. You might create a garden-themed cocktail menu, hang rattan egg chairs and scatter swing seats, sun loungers, bamboo chairs, botanical print cushions and green velvet sofas (and bring the indoors out!).
The wedding breakfast
you host a cocktail hour or beach stroll at sundown, s’mores and marshmallow toasting as the last light lingers, or even arrange an outdoor disco complete with dance floor (one of the hottest trends du jour), unique entertainment (think roaming acts, fire and glow performers, stilt walkers, live landscape artists and fireworks) and warming drinks (glühwein, coffee and liqueur, hot toddys, mulled cider) – you’ll be providing the most unforgettable endnote to your
PhotographyFrostThomas
Arrangeday.
There are so many outdoor wedding breakfast options. You could select banqueting tables for sharing platter feasts or formal seated dining, a smattering of food stations or street food vendors, or opt for a barbecue or picnic for a wonderfully interactive vibe.
Depending on your schedule and venue hire arrangements, why not extend the celebrations the next day and host an open-air brunch or lunch – or take your guests to a beautiful location for more al fresco fun?
Make sure your outdoor wedding is as practical as it is pretty with these top tips
The after-party
Comfort Consider your guests’ changing needs throughout the day. Will they become cold, tired, bored or hungry at any point? Pre-empt this and put plenty of contingencies in place with blankets, outdoor heating, a round of evening snacks and warm drinks, a variety of entertainment (think live acts, a mixologist or garden games) and accommodation and/or transportation.
You could arrange a boat trip, snorkelling or standup paddleboarding, beach picnic, garden games, lunch with live entertainment or simply refresh your wedding night’s reception space with fruit platters and cool boxes full of pressés, juices and lollipops for a reviving morning-after soirée.
Incorporate fresh, local and seasonal produce into your menus and consider the presentation to optimise your outdoor setting. Use botanical crockery and linens, adorn tabletops with an abundance of foliage and flowers, and pick earthy tones, natural materials and floral themed décor for everything from the table settings to the chair sashes.
Facilities Think about your individual guests’ requirements, from toilets and baby changing facilities to a crèche and play/quiet area. Signpost where everything is and ensure that the signage is visible at night with extra lighting.
85 ROMANTIC ELOPEMENT FOR THE TWO OF YOU, OR INVITE UP TO 150 GUESTS. www.harestonwedding.co.uk www.emmahewlett.co.uk07766237975 Specialising in creating beautiful bespoke wedding flowers for brides and venues across the South West. WWW.FUSSPOTS.CO.UK 07903 668045 INFO@FUSSPOTS.CO.UK Our passion for floristry design really shines through in the work which we create. Nothing makes us happier then achieving that wow factor when your guests enter the room. Floristry Design & Tree Hire WWW.FUSSPOTS.CO.UK 07903 668045 INFO@FUSSPOTS.CO.UK Our passion for floristry design really shines through in the work which we create. Nothing makes us happier then achieving that wow factor when your guests enter the room. Floristry Design & Tree Hire WWW.FUSSPOTS.CO.UK 07903 668045 INFO@FUSSPOTS.CO.UK Our passion for floristry design really shines through in the work which we create. Nothing makes us happier then achieving that wow factor when your guests enter the room. Floristry Design & Tree Hire WWW.FUSSPOTS.CO.UK 07903 668045 INFO@FUSSPOTS.CO.UK Our passion for floristry design really shines through in the work which we create. Nothing makes us happier then achieving that wow factor when your guests enter the room. Floristry Design & Tree Hire
feature | THE MAGIC OF CANVAS
86 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
CANVASMAGICTHEOF
World Inspired Tents, Photo: Rob Tibbles
From tipis twinkling with festoon lights to marquees bedecked with blooms, here’s our guide to styling your dream wedding under canvas words Hannah May
“My favourite way of injecting colour into your styling is through your candles,” says planner and stylist, Sophie Walker-Sünderhauf from The Little Details by Sophie (thelittledetailsbysophie.com). “They come in so many shades of various colours and it gives a reception a beautiful vibrant look.” Alternatively, Sophie suggests opting for another re-emerging trend: monochrome. “Use whites and black as your base colour with one other colour as an accent. This palette gives a reception a very clean look and is a lovely way of making a rustic venue look slightly more modern.”
“Some of our favourite tipi styling has been DIY décor where the couples have
Tipi
Fret not and embrace the chance to stamp your likes and loves on your tailor-made venue. Here, the experts share their advice for styling a wow-worthy wedding under canvas.
“Completely clear roof marquees are on-trend right now with inspiration taken from the glass marquees of Lake Como and Australia,” observes wedding planner, stylist and coordinator Rebecca Marie (rebeccamarieweddings.co.uk). “If you like this look, consider fabric installations to add shade without compromising on style, and always explore hanging florals of some sort to fill the space above guests’ heads.”
Palette perfected? Think about the minutiae and set to work expressing yourselves with gusto. “Incorporate favourite hobbies, places you love, adventures you have experienced,” suggests Charlotte. “It’s a fun way to share insights into your life together with your friends and family and adds a personal touch.”
Hatch Marquee Hire, Photo: Mark Shaw
Tipi Spaces, Photo: Venetia Norrington
Spaces 87
“Choose a colour scheme that you love,” suggests Charlotte Winship from Tipi Spaces (tipispaces.co.uk). “It could be multiple colours or none at all: go neutral. You don’t have to add colour everywhere. Incorporate a few colour notes into your table arrangements with a simple table runner, coloured napkins, a charger plate, coloured candles (non-drip) or seasonal flowers.”
Geodesic dome, tipi, yurt, traditional pole marquee, clear-span marquee, Indian tent...there’s a plethora of structures to pick from, which is your first port of creative call. And once you’ve chosen your tent type, explore different set-ups, structures, layouts and installations for both the inside and outside.
THE MAGIC OF CANVAS
Colour happy
Hayley Eggleton agrees: “When it comes to styling, combining elements of your personalities and interests is a good starting base; look to your hobbies, favourite colours and flowers or home décor to get the creative ideas flowing.”
Wedding planner Rebecca Green from Rebel & Anchor (rebelandanchor.co.uk) is also drawn to the stylistically unconventional. “It doesn’t have to be traditional,” she says. “I’m working with a few couples this year who have gone for something very different. One couple has chosen yurts – these create the most wonderful space which can be daisy-chained to create other areas, such as a bar and chill-out area. Another couple has opted for a giant circus tent. It’s fun and quirky and, again, creates a wow just being what it is.”
A blank canvas can be brilliant. The opportunity to create your own wedding space that reflects all that you love in the world will always appeal to couples desiring a distinctive day. But it can be daunting: from the dizzying choice of options available to deliberating over the minutiae, planning a marquee wedding can be an intricate business.
“Tipis are so versatile,” adds Hayley Eggleton from World Inspired Tents (worldinspiredtents.co.uk). “The sides can be raised to take in a beautiful view, sunset or cooling breeze in summer. In winter with the sides down, with solid oak doors, open fires lit and fairy lights sparkling, the tipis create a cosy winter wonderland.”
Once you’ve chosen the shape, try to establish your shade as this will inform many of the decisions that follow. “The colour of your structure can make such a big difference to the aesthetic of your day; take this into account and take note as to whether your tipi is canvas/beige in colour or a crisp white,” says Rebecca Marie.
Structural integrity
Next, pack a visual punch with statement pieces inside. One or two will suffice to achieve the desired impact and can take any number of forms. “I love a statement piece!” enthuses Rebecca. “Perhaps think about the bar. The Natural Hire Company (thenaturalhirecompany.co.uk) has amazing circular wooden bars which can be decorated with foliage. Or if you want a DJ, perhaps look at someone like Disco Wed (discowed.com) who bring their own props and DJ out of a shed with hanging baskets!”
One of the most impactful features of any marquee wedding is the lighting, with simple solutions evoking a stirring atmosphere. “Hanging festoon lights look super pretty as the sun’s going down,” suggests Rebecca Green. “Free-standing, outdoor chandeliers can also add a quirky touch of class.”
feature | THE MAGIC OF CANVAS
Tipi Spaces, Photo: Venetia Norrington
“Tipis offer lots of places to hang decorations,” says Charlotte. “I use invisible nylon thread to hang brightly coloured lanterns between the poles. You can’t see the thread, so the lanterns look like they’re floating. Our tipi linking poles are a great place to create a hanging table arrangement over a long table. Hanging tea light holders look beautiful sparkling overhead.”
Light fantastic
an easy way to up the stylistic ante and enhance the individual look of your wedding. “We love using lighting as a way to personalise and add drama to any event space,” says Hayley Jones
Hatch Marquee Hire,
created lots of things from scratch such as flowers, cakes, backdrops, table decoration, all with the help from friends and family, which can be very cost-effective,” she notes.
“Some marquees are large and white – how you work with the styling can soften this,” explains Rebecca Green. “This season most of my marquee weddings have gone for hanging floral installations to create that wow. Perhaps work with the rule of three if you’re looking at floral hoops across the whole ceiling. At one wedding we’re using two large garden trestles to hang over the dining area with lots of foliage hanging down from it. It’s effective and beautiful,” she reveals. “And at one of my weddings we’re having lots of lanterns just over the dancefloor area at different sizes and levels with colours that tie into the wedding scheme.”
Your style should be literally spilling out of your marquee, so give your guests a flavour of what’s in store via the outside spaces and walkways right up to the tent itself. “I love a floral entrance,” says Rebecca Green of a beautifully high-impact addition. “Whether it’s flowers sprawling out of a milk churn with wild abandonment or a considered but quirky deconstructed archway.”
Skybar Weddings
Make an entrance
Depending on what shape and size of tent you choose, there may be one large space or several smaller separate or adjoining spaces to fill –which is where the fun really begins.
“I like to keep the lighting in our tipis and tents simple,” says Charlotte. “You don’t need bright lights unless you want to spotlight performers. Twinkly fairy lights wrapped around our poles offer a warm ambience after dark and reflect off the ivory white canvas. Candles also offer warmth and intimacy. Festoon lights strung between the tipi peaks are great for offering light outdoors so you can enjoy the warm summer nights. And a firepit is a great way to offer cosy natural light and warmth after
Hang out
“It’s an incredible way to make the vibe super cosy,” adds Sophie for couples planning more intimate celebrations. “You could opt for a dried flower design and get it installed above your kitchen island after your wedding!”
Skybar
Weddings 88 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk SATURDAY 16 & SUNDAY 17 JANUARY 2016 11AM-4PM • EXETER CASTLE EX4 3PU www.bluefizzevents.co.uk enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk | 07845 147563 Blue Fizz Events @bluefizzevents VintageWedding Fair Photoby:ClaireKinchinPhotographyStylish inspiredvintagesuppliers In association with ‘On the Day’AccessoryMarqueecoordinationhirehireStyledshoots We create special memories for wonderful people & we’d love to create something special for you. planning & styling www.bluefizztentsandevents.co.ukwww.bluefizzevents.co.uk E: enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk T: 07845 147563Main image Freckle Photography, left image Selway Photography, right image The Vintage Wedding Photographer For all your bridal dreams... For all your bridal dreams... Annasul Y . Belle & Bunty . Catherine Deane www.cutmeoffaslice.comW Rachfacebook.com/cutmeoffaslice-07979494840 Say hi Lisa - 07812 387181 www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 863583 SATURDAY 16 & SUNDAY 17 JANUARY 2016 11AM-4PM • EXETER CASTLE EX4 3PU www.bluefizzevents.co.uk enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk | 07845 147563 Blue Fizz Events @bluefizzevents VintageWedding Fair The Decidedly Different Photoby:ClaireKinchinPhotographyStylish inspiredvintagesuppliers In association with ‘On the Day’AccessoryMarqueecoordinationhirehireStyledshoots We create special memories for wonderful people & we’d love to create something special for you. Bespoke creative wedding planning & styling www.bluefizztentsandevents.co.ukwww.bluefizzevents.co.uk E: enquiries@bluefizzevents.co.uk T: 07845 147563Main image Freckle Photography, left image Selway Photography, right image The Vintage Wedding Photographer For all your bridal dreams... For all your bridal dreams... Annasul Y . Belle & Bunty . Catherine Deane www.cutmeoffaslice.comW Rachfacebook.com/cutmeoffaslice-07979494840 Say hi Lisa - 07812 387181 www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 863583 The Decidedly beautyinspiredparloursuppliersVintageteapartyandrefreshments WeddingRomantic 11th century castle Vintage music& entertainments Vintage Blue
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and www.bellabellabridal.co.ukCallistainfo@bellabellabridal.co.uk 01752 651001 For all your bridal dreams... Annasul Y . Belle & Bunty . Catherine Deane . Louise Bentley . bespoke wedding gowns and more... www.trulydelightful.co.uk 01803 863583 EXCLUSIVE SPA PACKAGES AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE QUOTE ‘BUBBLES’ TO RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY BOTTLE OF PROSECCO www.cutmeoffaslice.comW Rachfacebook.com/cutmeoffaslice-07979494840 Say hi Lisa - 07812 387181 Stylish accommodation in the heart of Bath, with relaxing spa packages and award winning restaurants and bars to sample. A perfect city for a perfect party.MAKEbathboutiquestays.co.ukYOURHEN PARTY A MEMORABLE ONE. YOU’RE WELCOME 200 feet of rose walk, 100 acres of glorious garden, 17 pretty rooms, 10 Champion trees, 8 rolltop bathtubs, 3 hand painted wallpapers, 1 lavish wedding weekend. Milton Abbot, Devon Tel: 01822 870000 hotelendsleigh.com The prettiest spot in HotelDevonEndsleigh Tres_wed_ad.indd 88 22/05/2015 09:18 Love lives here Hotel Endsleigh 01822 870 @hotelendsleigh000 Tres_wed_ad.indd 149 16/05/2016 13:28 Blue Fizz - Bridwell Advert 154x110.indd 1 04/01/2017 15:35:36 The Sandy Cove Hotel is situated on the stunning North Devon Coast & its unique location makes the whole day unforgettable, from your Wedding Ceremony, to the reception & through to your evening celebrations. Set in beautiful gardens with breathtaking Sea Views creating the perfect setting for your Wedding. We also offer Affordable Exclusive Use of the Hotel, grounds & facilities. www.sandycove-hotel.co.uk01271882243 MGH WedMag 225x154mm v1.1 OLP.indd 1 16/02/2017 12:20 The Sandy Cove Hotel is situated on the stunning North Devon Coast & its unique location makes the whole day unforgettable, from your Wedding Ceremony, to the reception & through to your evening celebrations. Set in beautiful gardens with breathtaking Sea Views creating the perfect setting for your Wedding. We also offer Affordable Exclusive Use of the Hotel, grounds & facilities. www.sandycove-hotel.co.uk01271882243 A romantic country house in the beautiful Exe Valley, just three miles from Exeter. The perfect year-round retreat for you to celebrate your perfect day. info@pyneshouse.co.uk www.pyneshouse.co.uk 01392 431 403 HOUSE
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Skybar Weddings
Fabricwinner.”can
Tipi Spaces, Photo: Venetia Norrington
World Inspired Tents, Photo: Sarah Lauren
The floristry should be a key feature of your marquee wedding, whatever look and colour scheme you’re working with. Popular trends du jour include bright and colourful, sculptural and statement, vertical designs, and blousy, scented blooms.
Weddings
Floral dance
Tipi Spaces, Photo: Venetia Norrington
With backdrops and drapery all the rage, couples are using fabrics in new and imaginative ways to enhance the look and feel both inside and outside their tent.
“We also love it when couples get creative with their own lighting ideas, from candles in old gin bottles or glass baubles with tea lights strung from the ceiling,” she says. “Remember to designate someone who will light the candles at a certain time and make sure they bring a lighter!”
transform any space, instantly adding colour, texture and pattern while alleviating the potential starkness of an all-white marquee. “It doesn’t have to be full-on – a subtle muted colour that complements the wedding colours and the flowers can look amazing,” affirms Rebecca Green.
Hatch Marquee Hire
“Dried flowers are also enduring and can be a great keepsake to remember your wedding or gift to friends and family afterwards,” she adds. “Pampas grass continues to be popular for creating larger botanic arrangements. It’s very tactile and sculptural so great for a statement piece and a touch of boho, especially with some hanging macramé.”
Skybar
Make material
Tipi Spaces, Photo: Venetia Norrington
from Sunset Tipis (sunsettipis.com). “Hiring festoon lights is an inexpensive way to transform an area especially when it changes from day to night – you really get the wow factor! For even more impact you can have lights strung in trees or around the perimeter edge of your party, which really alters the feel of your outside space when the sun goes down.”
Let’s go outside
fabrics running throughout the entire structure,” says Rebecca Marie. “There is so much fun to be had when it comes to fabric installations and, when paired with feature lighting or floral installations, you are on to a
feature | THE MAGIC OF CANVAS
“I love adding a bit of green,” says Charlotte. “Hanging pot plants, a few potted palms and some eucalyptus or willow garlands entwined around the cross poles are a simple way to add some colour and can be enjoyed after your wedding.”
90 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
“Don’t forget the outside!” reminds Rebecca Green. “If you’re having a marquee wedding it’s likely you’ve found the most perfect view and location to host it and, if that’s the case, create some nice seating areas where guests can relax and enjoy that view. Match them with your style or vibe for the day, whether that’s relaxed hay bales and firepits or little boho lounge setups with vintage rugs.”
“The freshest and most exciting trend for me when it comes to marquee weddings is the use of textiles, perhaps printed textiles lining the roof, or draped
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feature | COME RAIN OR SHINE Blazing sunshine or Arctic blast? Be prepared for whatever the weather gods throw your way on W-day with these top tips words Elizabeth Chester COME RAIN OR SHINE Thomas Frost Photography 92 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Umbrellas can make for stunning wedding décor, whether you use them as centrepieces, bedecked in flowers or hanging upside down along the aisle. If open umbrellas adorn your ceiling, create an umbrella station that matches your theme while also providing brollies to guests who need shelter should there be a downpour. Of course, you don’t need to have umbrel las as a theme to rock the umbrella station idea. Similar to a sweetie cart, position your station anywhere guests will see it; you might even throw in a dispos able camera with every umbrella to capture some atmospheric reportage shots in the rain. Top tip: go for transparent umbrellas so your W-day look isn’t lost!
You may have a fairly good idea of what the weather has in store in the days leading up to your wedding day – or you may get a sudden sur prise. If flash floods, a Sahara-busting 30-degree blast or even heavy frost pops up on your weather apps, it’s a good idea to have some accessories ready. After all, you might not be able to control the elements, but there’s plenty you can do to ensure your guests feel comfortable whatever the weather.
Thomas Frost Photography
personalised fans as décor that guests can use to cool down and take away as a memento. Creative types could create a wall of paper fans attached to a wooden trellis where guests can help themselves; you could even incorporate fans into your theme and use this as the seating plan.
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cross a field in dainty heels or white trainers.
VeddaiStock.com/Yamila
COME RAIN OR SHINE
SLIP ON A FLIP-FLOP OR REACH FOR A WELLY
DesigniStock.com/C.Mae
can both be permanent or
A basket of flip-flops in various sizes could save the day for guests who make a sartorial slip-up when it comes to dressing for the weather. Hot or even tired feet may well feel the benefit of a cool pair of flats should a sud den spike in temperature occur. Likewise, a collection of wellington boots will go down a storm (ahem) if the heavens open and your guests get caught trying to
DECORATE WITH UMBRELLAS AND FANS
If it’s set to be a scorcher, you could use the same principle for handheld fans. We love the idea of
CREATE A CANOPY
PustukhiStock.com/Vadym
Blue skies and glorious sunshine might be your dream W-day backdrop – however, too much sun and not enough shade might not be everyone’s cup of Prosecco! If your venue has some natural shade, find out what time of day this area is shaded and set up an appropriate station there. It might be a chillout area for children’s colouring activities under a big oak tree or a Prosecco station or ice cream truck under a natural floral canopy such as a rose-covered wooden Canopiespergola.andtents
feature | COME RAIN OR SHINE
BRING A BOX OF BLANKETS
If your venue allows guests to roam seamlessly from indoors to outdoors, you’re not going to have to
pop-up, so talk to your venue about these options in advance of the day. And, like the umbrella station, a parasol store could be the perfect accompaniment to a hot day. Pretty parasols in wedding white or bamboo for a more exotic feel might be just what your guests need if the sun comes out to play.
worry too much about the weather. We love venues with verandas, balconies, terraces or piazza doors flung open to let the garden in and enable guests to mingle between spaces. However, if the weather looks poor and strong winds mean your outdoors is being blown indoors, you can always talk to your venue about bringing some of the al fresco décor inside. Who can forget the Cambridges’ fabulous use of outdoor plants and trees inside their ceremony?
DIRECT TO YOUR DRINKS STATION
PhotographyFrostThomas 94 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Blankets will be appreciated by your guests should an outdoor wedding turn cool or if you’re marrying late in the day. Luxe options include monogrammed and cashmere blankets, but we also love the idea of a mismatched collection of blankets or throws of your own for a homespun feel. Although it’s unlikely you’ll see snow in any season except winter (although you never know!), if the weather forecast is looking really chilly you could always add some hand warmers and pashminas. Firepits and open fires should come as an optional standard at your venue if your wedding is in the depths of winter.
GET A FEEL FOR INDOOROUTDOOR
If your guests are all having a good time, the weather shouldn’t really matter. But for on-the-day temperature control, there’s always the bar! From ice-old cocktails and mocktails to marshmallowcovered hot chocolates, if you brief your bar team that you might need some last-minute tweaks to the menu depending on weather warnings, they might be able to prepare some cool or hot options should the weather take a turn in either direction. Cheers to that!
96 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk Have the country wedding of your dreams in our beautifully restored 18th century barn, set in the rural heart of Devon The Oak Barn, Hittisleigh Friendly, informal, affordable licenced for civil ceremonies For more details visit our orwww.theoakbarn.co.ukwebsite:calluson0164724641 The atmospheric alternative to traditional marquees. Bespoke configurations create the perfect space for any event. 01271 worldinspiredtents.co.ukinfo@world-inspired.co.uk851160 TheSailclothAurora available now for all andweddingsevents
Delight your guests with these fun and fabulous games to play during the wedding reception words Elizabeth Chester YOU MAY NOW QUIZ THE BRIDE iStock.com/volkway 97
Everyone loves a throwback photograph and this game is a great way to get guests mingling and chatting. You’ll need a corner of a room or, if space allows, it can work
WHO AM I?
feature | YOU MAY NOW QUIZ THE BRIDE
GUESS THE PHOTOGRAPH
brilliantly in an entrance hall. All you need is a piece of twine, some pegs and, crucially, lots of photographs of your guests (the funnier, the better). Either collate these from your own collection or ask guests to submit them in advance. On arrival or during the reception, guests can take a look at the creatively hung images and list who they think is who before depositing their answers in a box. The person who guesses the most matches wins the game – and presumably has a good laugh along the way!
Once the feast, drinks and a killer party playlist has been nailed, many couples like to plan some games to kick off the merriment. While garden games are a brilliant way to bring a fun, com petitive edge to your reception, if they’re not possible due to the weather, space limitations or you simply fancy something different, there are plenty of other games to bring the fun factor to your celebrations.
Looking to make your wedding reception a fun-filled affair your guests will never forget?
This game works well for an intimate wedding. Ask a creative bridesmaid to help with the prep; you’ll need cardboard headbands in various sizes (a strip of card board stapled at the back) with a small horizontal slit
at the front. Each player then chooses a photo from a selection of pictures of all the guests and pops the pic ture into the slit (so they can’t see it but everyone else can). They must then guess who they are via yes and no questions. Cue much hilarity if the person guessing asks creative questions to try to eliminate each guest, such as ‘has this person ever fallen over after one-toomany drinks?’
This is a great crowd-pleaser. Ask your best man/fa ther-in-law/bridesmaid to grab the mic and read out a list of humorous quotes or funny incidents that someone within the wedding party has said or done. You may need to think long and hard about this one well in advance to ensure you have enough material
WHO SAID/DID THIS?
98 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
feature | YOU MAY NOW QUIZ THE BRIDE
If you’d like something that forgoes the quiz but is still an easy-to-play indoor game, how about either table football or table tennis? Easy to assemble,
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
either of these classic games could offer guests the chance to compete against each other either individually or in teams. Guys vs girls? Bridesmaids vs best men? Bride vs groom? The possibilities are endless!
and, once you’ve checked with the subject of your stories that you’re OK to retell their tale, you’ll no doubt have a laugh at the silliest stories that have cropped up over the years.
THE ULTIMATE MR & MRS
This game shines a light solely on the newly-weds and can be written by the happy couple – this must be individually, however, as they will present their questions to their other half and hope they get them right! You can make this easy or complex, funny or straight – it’s entirely up to you. Examples might be straightforward questions such as ‘what was the first present I bought you?’ ‘Where did we have our first kiss?’ ‘When did you tell me you loved me?’ ‘What’s my star sign?’ ‘What’s my favourite song?’ Or you might opt for more thought-provoking questions such as ‘what would be the title of my autobiography?’ or ‘who would play me in a movie of my life?’ If you really want to push your luck you can end on some ‘would you
rathers?’ but tread carefully as no one wants to argue over whether their other half would rather go to a Champions League final than have dinner together on their wedding day!
iStock.com/Dziggyfoto
For couples who have travelled the globe together, a round-the-world game should fit the bill. The quiz can either be in a Q&A format, so a nominated person asks ‘where in the world did {the couple} eat the world’s hottest chilli curry?’ Or, if you have the time and creativity, why not curate a large-scale world map for a pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey style game where blindfolded participants have to try and pin where the happy couple did various activities. Snowboarding in the Kalahari Desert? Try again!
This game can also be played with the guests asking the questions and the happy couple both giving their answers simultaneously (using paddles with yes/no or bride/groom written on them). It can get hilarious ly competitive for contentious questions like ‘who is the best cook?’ or ‘who is the tidiest?’ so make sure whoever has written the quiz had anecdotal or factual evidence such as photographs to support their answers! You can also include forfeits so there’s a penalty for each wrong answer, such as wearing co medic accessories like deely boppers, silly sunglasses, sombreros or fake moustaches. Not only will you all have a good laugh, but you should also get some superb photographs of giggling guests, mock horror at some of the answers and possibly an accessory-be decked bride or groom!
TAKING TABLE TURNS
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WEDDING
& EVENT HIRE A STUNNING ARRAY OF TABLEWARE, BEAUTIFUL DECOR AND VINTAGE PROPS keepingitvintage.co.uk | keepingitvintage@outlook.com www.skybarweddings.co.uk | 01872 553383 | skybar@eventsbluesky.co.uk Land Rover Hire
100 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
feature | VENUES GUIDE | WELCOME
Photography Jennifer Jane Venue Brickhouse Vineyard
Choosing a wedding venue is usually the first stop on the planning checklist. From country houses and rustic barns to bijou boltholes, wed reveals Devon’s standout settings for a wow-worthy wedding
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VENUES GUIDE
wed’s
GoddardRebecca
Pynes House
Guest accommodation: 12 double rooms, plus 4 rollaway beds Dog-friendly: No (couple’s dog for ceremony only)
Guest accommodation: No Dog-friendly: No (can come for photos on request)
feature | VENUES GUIDE | COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES
Exeter Golf & Country Club
COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES
Total capacity: 96 for dining in the house, 130 for ceremony in the house (with dining in a marquee)
Live out your very own fairytale in one of Devon’s elegant country houses or majestic castles
Total capacity: 150 evening
The buzz of Exeter might be on the doorstep, but you wouldn’t know it at Exeter Golf & Country Club. A hidden pocket of country charm a stone’s throw from the city streets, the tranquil air and lush parkland of the venue exude a heady sense of romance. The crisp white Georgian manor house, Wear Park, stands at its heart – think huge floor-to-ceiling windows, sweeping staircases and sumptuous furnishings. Marry in a choice of suites, blending the classic romance of the elegant, Regency-style Topsham Room to the contemporary grey, wood and stone theme of The Mews, complete with its private roof terrace. The Topsham Room offers glorious views of the golf course with a veranda for al fresco drinks. An experienced team of chefs will create culinary masterpieces, ranging from afternoon teas to decadent banquets, and for that pre-wedding prep, Wear Park Spa offers bridal beauty treatments through to luxurious Elemis facials, massage and body scrubs. exetergcc.co.uk
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 4 outdoor: 1
102 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
VENUES GUIDE:
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 2 outdoor: 0
Believed to be the inspiration for Jane Austen’s Barton Park in ‘Sense and Sensibility’, this elegant Georgian house provides the most breathtaking location for your very own love story. Set within 37 acres of parkland in the Exe Valley, the glorious gardens hint at the immaculate interiors, where you can marry in a choice of state rooms, all bathed in natural light and exquisitely styled. For dizzying romance, take your vows before the grand doors on the entrance steps with the majestic tree-lined avenue and gardens as your backdrop, before feasting and dancing the night away beneath the sparkling chandeliers of the Ballroom or, for larger affairs, in a marquee in the grounds. Romantic details such as the Romeo and Juliet-style balcony and the myrtle bush in the rose garden, which is believed to have grown from a clipping from Queen Victoria’s bridal bouquet, add to the dreaminess, while the beautiful bedrooms make for an incredibly special place to spend the night. pyneshouse.co.uk
Total capacity: 160
Guest accommodation: for 16 Dog-friendly: Yes
Powderham Castle
Guest accommodation: for 30, plus 5 rollaway beds for children Dog-friendly: No (couple’s dog is allowed for ceremony/reception but not overnight)
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 2 outdoor: 1
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COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES
Rockbeare Manor
Rich in romance and steeped in history, this iconic 14th century castle sits at the heart of 200 acres of ancient parkland on the edge of the Exe estuary. The grounds offer dreamlike backdrops for ceremonies – choose from the American Garden where a garden pavilion is set amidst a glade of exotic trees; the Belvedere, an 18th century tower with panoramic views across the estate and estuary; and the Victorian Rose Garden, where you can marry amidst a castle backdrop and the scent of roses. Inside, there’s the magnificent oak panelled Dining Room, the Libraries and the captivating Music Room, with its stunning dome and estuary views. Bring your dazzling day to a close by retiring to a sumptuous suite for a royally romantic wedding night. powderham.co.uk
Civil ceremonies licence: Yesindoor: 3 outdoor: 1
A ceremony on a pretty outdoor terrace flanked by flower-filled parkland ticks the box for sheer off-the-scale romance – but that’s only part of the dreamy appeal of Rockbeare Manor. Nestled in the countryside near Exeter, the Grade I listed Regency house is light, elegant and stylish yet relaxed, its full-length windows framing 100 acres of glorious parkland dotted with mature trees. Available on an exclusive-use basis, indoor ceremonies take place beneath the twinkling chandelier of the Dining Room, while the light-filled Ballroom hosts sumptuous feasts and revelry for up to 160 guests. There’s also a beautiful balconied Bridal Drawing Room for the preparations, a Billiard Room and 13 plush bedrooms with sink-into-me bathtubs and farreaching views across Dartmoor. rockbearemanor.co.uk
Total capacity: 140
Guest accommodation: for 12 Dog-friendly: Yes
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 6 outdoor: 2
PhotosWeddingDaySpecialPhotosWeddingDaySpecialPhotographyClarke-McLeodKathryn
Dog-friendly: Some dog-friendly options are available
104 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
feature | VENUES GUIDE | COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES
Total capacity: 70 day, 100 evening
A Georgian stately home on the outskirts of the ancient port town of Bideford, new wedding venue Moreton House boasts a range of impressive yet homely spaces and luxurious on-site accommodation. Rich in the beauty of North Devon, the house sits amidst five acres of landscaped tree-lined gardens, while the breathtaking vistas of the north coast are less than two miles away.
Total capacity: 120
A stunning Arts & Crafts country house estate with restored Edwardian gardens and acres of inspiring grounds, this one-of-a-kind venue will sweep you away with its idyllic west Devon location, and time-honoured space in which to create a beautiful English country wedding. From intimate elopements to grander gatherings of 120, Coombe Trenchard weddings are unique, tailored and very special. Brimming with beauty and charm, the exclusive-use venue offers the main house, coach house, courtyard, Italian terrace, clock tower and glorious grounds with breathtaking Dartmoor views as well as a personal in-house coordination service. There are numerous locations for ceremonies indoors and out before the celebrations unfold in the elegant and versatile reception areas. What’s more, Sarah’s cutting garden flowers grown with great love and care for each couple, the stunning bridal suite, and new bijou stable bar mean this gem of a venue will steal the hearts of engaged couples from far and wide. coombetrenchard.co.uk
The exclusive-use venue has joined forces with awardwinning restaurant The Royal George to offer a limited number of prime weekend wedding packages for 2022, with the catering and so much more taken care of for an unforgettable wedding in this endlessly romantic setting. moretonhousedevon.com
Coombe Trenchard
Marry in one of the elegant, light-filled rooms or, for something more intimate, before the fireplace in the hall. Venture outdoors and take your vows in the portico framed by the grand entrance or the gazebo in the secret garden. Savour the festivities in the beautifully restored function rooms and enjoy the cosy and characterful accommodation for an extended wedding weekend.
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 6 outdoor: 6
Guest accommodation: for 30
Moreton House
Dog-friendly: No
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 1 outdoor: 4
Hareston Manor
Hareston Manor exudes timeless romance, from the tree-lined drive and sweeping rural panoramas to the 14th century Jacobean house nestling amongst wooded hills and wildflowers in the South Hams. Combining a sense of seclusion with a relaxed, back-tonature feel, the venue is an eco haven with sustainability at the core of its ethos. Offering 12 weddings per year, the venue’s exclusive bespoke weddings will ensure every detail is perfect, whether you choose an elopement or celebration for 150 guests. Choose from the romance of a ceremony in the picturesque grounds, the candlelit St Martin’s chapel, which dates back to 1379, or the manor entrance, immersed in the beauty of the time-honoured walls and mullion windows, roses and wildflowers. Celebrate in a marquee or tipi before retiring to a luxurious yurt for a wedding night beneath the stars. What’s more, there’s an array of options – from gourmet barbecue evening food and fireworks to pre-wedding clay pigeon shooting – to ensure your wedding is as individual as it is beautiful. harestonwedding.co.uk
HareGazeyMoon
Total capacity: 120
Dog-friendly: On request
Total capacity: 150
This is the place for a wedding rich in history. Beyond the stirring charm of the 11th century Norman castle, with its Great Hall complete with minstrels’ gallery and roaring log fire, there’s the 6th century chapel, Devon’s oldest building, and a truly enchanting setting for a blessing. The grounds are equally fairytale-worthy – the River Exe runs through the estate’s 1,000 acres of lush landscape and wooded valleys, while a cluster of cosy thatched cottage accommodation creates the feel of a wedding village. Kick-start the festivities with a Friday night feast; get married in the garden pavilion before dancing under the stars in the expansive grounds, with fireworks shimmering on the river. The next day, it’s all too easy to continue the festivities with a tasty brunch and fun on the croquet lawn and tennis court. bickleighcastle.com
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 5 outdoor: 1
Hurlditch Court
Civil ceremonies licence: No - celebrant-led ceremonies available & St Peter’s Church in Lamerton is very close
Guest accommodation: for 40 in 18 bedrooms
Bickleigh Castle
Total capacity: 90
Guest accommodation: for 14 in cottages and shepherd’s huts
Dog-friendly: No
Guest accommodation: TBC, please enquire directly for up-to-date information
Located in Lamerton, Hurlditch Court is a Grade II listed manor house boasting a rich history that dates back as far as 1351. The charm-filled house is flanked by pretty grounds where elegant gardens meet rolling lawns and a beautiful lake. Choose from an elopement or intimate wedding for up to 14 guests in the Gatehouse or a celebrant-led ceremony by the lake. Celebrate in style with up to 80 guests in a grand marquee or tipi by the lake or you might choose a stretch tent reception with up to 60 guests. There’s ample space for garden games and al fresco festivities complete with idyllic country views and, with accommodation for up to 14 on-site, ranging from the snug shepherd’s huts and Gatehouse to a cosy cottage, you can savour the delights of this gem over the course of a magical and oh-so memorable weekend. hurlditchcourtweddings.co.uk
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COUNTRY HOUSES & CASTLES
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 6 outdoor: 1
Badgers Holt
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 2 outdoor: 1
RURAL TREASURES
PhotographyWildeHannah
Hidden in the heart of Dartmoor, Badgers Holt is ideally located for couples seeking a relaxed and wildly romantic wedding. The River Dart meanders through the grounds of the former fishing lodge, which houses a series of versatile, rustic spaces for celebrations, all perfect for styling with your own unique twist. Take your vows in the blank canvas Garden Room or Banquet Fireside Room – complete with a roaring wood burner – or even in the garden bandstand on the water’s edge. Venture onto the ancient Tor-dotted moorland for dramatic photos and together-time before returning for festoon lit celebrations and firepit gatherings on the riverbank and sleeping beneath the stars in a Lotus Belle Tent or cosy apartment. badgersholtweddings.co.uk
PhotographyBoxSamuel
Guest accommodation: Yes Dog-friendly: Yes
PhotographyHendersonJoseph
106 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Total capacity: 100
Harefield Barn
Total capacity: 300 evening
Located amidst rolling hills and wild flower meadows, Harefield Barn offers the beauty and tranquillity of a country wedding with the convenience of being just a 10-minute drive from Exeter. A light, airy and versatile backdrop for a personalitypacked wedding, the rural gem boasts no less than seven licensed areas for ceremonies – including the Clock House, a dreamlike option for al fresco vows – not to mention four churches within a short drive. Characterful features such as exposed beams and a wood-burning stove meet a blank canvas aesthetic, lofty ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows framing vistas across the ever-changing landscape. Relax with your guests in the cosy bar, steal away to the surrounding cornfields for photos against a golden sunset, and dance the night away on the terrace beneath a starlit sky. harefieldbarn.co.uk
Guest accommodation: No Dog-friendly: Yes
VENUES GUIDE:
From rustic barns to modern spaces flanked by wooded valleys and rural panoramas, throw your dream wedding in a charm-packed setting in the Devon countryside
PhotographySpillerCatherine
Total capacity: 250 ceremony, 198 wedding breakfast
Dog-friendly: No
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 1 outdoor: 1
Total capacity: 156 day
Guest accommodation: for 8
Comprising a cluster of lovingly restored traditional buildings and a walled garden, this exclusive-use venue offers a private, picturesque and peaceful setting in rural Cullompton. New for 2022, savour the stylish spa-like delights of The Paddock during your wedding morning. Marry in the atmospheric Cider Barn, a restored traditional cob barn with oak trusses and floor-to-ceiling windows, or glide down the lavender-lined aisle of the walled garden and exchange vows beneath the handcrafted oak arbour.
This breathtaking setting lives up to its name both in scale and wow factor. Tucked away in an incredibly beautiful corner of Devon amidst 120 acres of Friesian-filled fields and thatched cottages, The Great Barn combines the magnificent 15th century Great Barn itself, the charming West Barn - a perfect break-out space for wet-weather drinks and children’s entertainment - glorious gardens and elegant cottage accommodation for up to 30. Complete with exclusive-use hire, you can relax with your guests in complete seclusion in this idyllic private estate. Marry beneath the dramatic vaulted ceiling of the barn or the picture-perfect St John the Baptist church on the doorstep. For spine-tingling romance, enter the secret walled garden through the ancient arched gate and exchange vows beneath the arbour amidst a carnival of roses and lavender. thegreatbarndevon.co.uk
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 2 outdoor: 2
uptonbarn.com
Dog-friendly: Yes
Kamila Nowak Photography
RURAL TREASURES
The Great Barn
Upton Barn & Walled Garden
Stylishly blending rustic character with modern accents, the Stable Barn is a stunning space for receptions for up to 156, with warm timbers, striking lighting and glorious paddock views, while the Press Bar is the place to stop for signature cocktails by the wood-burner. Don’t forget to head outdoors at nightfall when a carnival of festoon lights and firepits add to the magic of this stellar spot.
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Guest accommodation: for 30
The Oak Barn
Set amidst 65 acres of Devon farmland close to Exmoor National Park, Holwell Farmhouse is a beautifully restored Grade II listed retreat. The historic meadows are roamed by ewes, horses and a farm cat all year round, and during the winter months, the farm is home to 40 wild red deer. Offering rural escapism and romance in equal measure, it is a dream venue for nature-loving couples. Blending historic features with modern comforts, the farmhouse accommodates between 11 and 16 guests in bedrooms with en suite facilities. Picturesque and versatile, the farmhouse lends itself to an intimate event, while largescale receptions take place in a marquee complete with countryside panoramas and glamping-style accommodation. holwellfarmhouse.co.uk
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 3 outdoor: 1
Dog-friendly: Yes
Dog-friendly: No
Holwell Farmhouse
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 3 outdoor: 0
Total capacity: 90 day, up to 125 evening
Total capacity: 180
108 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Fall for the rural dream at The Oak Barn, where three converted historic barns and an ancient cob Devon farmhouse sit amidst acres of quintessentially English countryside. We’re talking meadows dotted with haybales, undulating hills and a beautiful country church right next door. The stunning medieval-style barn is a blank canvas with traditional oak cruck trusses, which is ideal for going to town on the décor. Then there’s the Acorn Barn, a thatched 18th century barn, for intimate ceremonies and accommodation. The Linhay, a converted Edwardian dairy, offers further accommodation as well as a beautifully equipped space for the bridal preparations. And the gardens beg for al fresco celebrations around the firepit, beneath leafy trees and skies speckled with stars. theoakbarn.co.uk
Guest accommodation: for 16 plus 10 tents
PhotographyMayLouise
feature | VENUES GUIDE | RURAL TREASURES
Guest accommodation: for 28-29
From the glorious setting and beautifully appointed interiors to the welcoming team, ever y aspect of this exquisite, exclusive use Regency countr y house is dedicated to delivering the highest possible level of ser vice because we never forget, it’s the little things that make a big difference.
Rockbeare Manor, Nr Exeter, Devon, EX5 2FE Telephone: 01392 797444 rockbearemanor
www
Ever ything about Rockbeare Manor is devoted to you
co uk
Dog-friendly: Yes
Tucked away in an idyllic corner of south Devon, amidst 20 acres of fields and woodland, you’ll find Brickhouse Vineyard. Although located just 20 minutes from Exeter, the venue’s awayfrom-it-all charm and palpable sense of tranquillity make it a blissful setting for an elopement or intimate wedding. Marry in the 18th century Round House – an enchanting and brilliantly versatile space with a thatched roof, beamed ceilings and sweeping views across the vineyard to the countryside and coast beyond. After the vows, enjoy a loved-up stroll in the leafy vineyard and gardens before gathering for a feast tailored entirely to your tastes. You might even savour the romance of this gorgeous spot a little longer at nearby hideaway, The Folly. brickhousevineyard.co.uk
INTIMATE & UNIQUE
BarrowEmma
Total capacity: 40 day, 75 evening
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 1 outdoor: 0
Brickhouse Vineyard
Guest accommodation: No
BarrowEmmaEmmaBarrow 110 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Throw a small wedding packed with personality at one of these gorgeous spots
VENUES GUIDE:
Guest accommodation: 7 rooms and 1 garden suite
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 4 outdoor: 1
This village pub is bursting with charm. Nestled amongst the Tudor cobbles of the chocolate-box village of Sandford, the sense of easy charm and rich character is palpable in the 16th century coaching house, from its low ceilings and crackling log fires to its sink-into-me sofas and sheltered garden. Complete with an award-winning restaurant and luxurious boutiquestyle accommodation, it is a cosy and memorable setting for an intimate wedding, where the laidback draw of a country celebration meets fine food and luxe touches. Feast on locally sourced Devon flavours and a huge array of party-starting drinks, as the night draws to a close, bed down in one of the eight spacious and luxurious bedrooms or suites, most with underfloor heating and king-size beds. lambinnsandford.co.uk
The Lamb Inn at Sandford
PhotographyYeti
Dog-friendly: Yes
Total capacity: 60 day, 100 evening
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 1 outdoor: 0
Dog-friendly: Yes
St Nicholas Priory
Original features captivate at every turn, from the medieval kitchen and Tudor bed chamber to the 15th century arch-braced timber roof and stunning stained glass windows. Three stirringly beautiful settings are licensed for intimate ceremonies with up to 45 in attendance. Absorb the palpable atmosphere of this extraordinary building as you take your vows and venture out for a loved-up stroll in the pretty grounds; then gather with your nearest and dearest for a wedding feast to remember.
Could there be anything more romantic than your very own tree-top hideaway, taking your vows overlooking rolling hills, surrounded by nature with the gentle breeze rustling through the leaves? Tucked away on a private north Devon estate, Tree Top Escape offers the most magical of settings to wed. Beyond the jaw-dropping views of the valley, there’s a large lounge, Italian designer kitchen, freestanding copper bath and state-of-the-art technology. Celebrate with up to 14 of your nearest and dearest in the luxe, light and luxurious setting, sink into the private hot tub on the terrace beneath the stars, and enjoy a delicious dinner cooked over live flames by your personal chef in the Grill-Haus, a fresh-from-a-fairytale cabin in the woods. Beautiful, tranquil and unique, it’s the dream location for back-to-nature nuptials without skimping on luxury.
INTIMATE AND UNIQUE111
Guest accommodation: No
A jewel in the heart of Exeter, this 900-year-old priory turned Tudor home is rich in historic charm and romance.
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 3 outdoor: 0
Dog-friendly: By arrangement
treetopescape.co.uk
Guest accommodation: 2 en-suite bedrooms
Total capacity: 45
Tree Top Escape
nicholaspriory.com
Total capacity: 16
From country charm and glorious grounds to seriously stylish suites for the wedding night, these hotels offer irresistible romance
HOTELS WITH CHARACTER
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 1 outdoor: 1 Guest accommodation: 37 rooms, with 2 people per room Dog-friendly: Yes
Tucked away deep in the secluded Devon countryside within touching distance of Dartmoor, this Grade I historic house is flanked by 100 acres of scenic grounds, home to woodland, follies, grottos and gardens created by renowned landscape designer Humphry Repton. Say “I do” in any of the ground floor rooms of the immaculately styled hotel or venture outside for vows in the Parterre Garden or the utterly enchanting Shell House. ‘Your day, your way’ is the mantra at Endsleigh and each wedding is entirely bespoke, whether it’s a ceremony for two or an exclusive weekend wedding, complete with a marquee reception on the lawn overlooking the gardens, the River Tamar and beyond into Cornwall. What’s more, the individually designed bedrooms and Stable suites, featuring roll-top bathtubs and wood-burning stoves, are an absolute treat. hotelendsleigh.com
PhotographyWalshFiona
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 7 outdoor: 2 Guest accommodation: 18 rooms for 40 guests Dog-friendly: Yes
The Venue at Sandy Cove
Total capacity: 140 inside, 160 for reception in marquee
VENUES GUIDE:
112 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Hotel Endsleigh
WoolcockTim
Total capacity: 150
Perched high on the cliffs of north Devon, The Venue at Sandy Cove boasts to-die-for views across the Atlantic, the rugged coastline and heights of Exmoor. A licensed gazebo for vows and a glass-wrapped platform jutting out from the cliffs means you can make the most of the spectacular location, while the purpose-built and light-filled celebration space boasts bi-fold doors, perfect for bringing the outside in during the warmer months or framing the white-tipped waves in winter. State-of-the-art lighting heightens the magic while the hotel’s 37 rooms – some with private balconies and deep bathtubs – will allow plenty of your guests to stay on and savour the sea air and rolling waves in luxury. sandycove-hotel.co.uk
113W W W . E X E T E R G C C . C O . U K / W E D D I N G S S p a c e t o b r e a t h e , r e l a x a n d e n j o y y o u r p r e c i o u s d a y w i t h c a r e f u l l y c o n s i d e r e d s a f e t y t h a t d o e s n ' t c o m p r o m i s e s t y l e .
Total capacity: 250
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes - indoor: 4 outdoor: 0
QUESTIONS TO ASK A WEDDING VENUE Before you fall for the first venue you see, get clued up on these must-ask questions from wedding planner, Jenny Granlund of Jenny Wren Weddings & Events 1. What is the capacity for a ceremony and reception? 2. Does the venue have a ceremony licence? 3. What ceremony locations are there, both inside and outside? 4. Is the venue exclusive use? 5. What is the availability like? 6. What is included in the price? 7. Will room turnarounds need to take place? If so, who will take care of this? 8. Are there any break-out rooms away from the party for older guests or babies? 9. Will there be a wedding coordinator on-site on the wedding day? What will they be taking care of? 10. Is furniture provided? 11. Is tableware provided? 12. Can you bring in your own suppliers and catering company? 13. Are toilets provided? 14. What time do the licences for music and alcohol run until? 15. Are there restrictions concerning music? 16. Is there the option to provide your own alcohol? Do they charge corkage? 17. What day and time can you have access from? 18. Is there accommodation on-site or close by? 19. Are fireworks allowed? 20. Is confetti allowed? 21. Are firepits allowed? 22. Are there dos and don’ts concerning decoration of the venue? 23. What time does the hire end? 24. Who does the clean-up afterwards? 25. Who’s responsible for taking away the recycling and rubbish? 114 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Guest accommodation: 54 rooms
Civil ceremonies licence: Yes
for up to 220 guests, plentiful four-star accommodation, and even use of the wedding golf buggy! Tie the knot in The Oaks, a charming space with exposed beams and large windows framing views across the countryside, or the Atrium, a grand setting with chandeliers, mood lighting and stunning views. Why not make a holiday of it and gather your loved ones in this gorgeous part of Devon for trips to the nearby south coast with its pretty beaches and wild cliffs, before returning to the extensive modern facilities including a state-of-theart gym, pool and Aura Spa. woodburypark.co.uk
Dog-friendly: No
Total capacity: 250
Guest accommodation: 98 rooms
For weddings in convenient locations, it doesn’t come much more central than this revamped venue, which is opposite Exeter’s train station and Rougemont Gardens. A Victorian building that boasts modern facilities, its grand façade gives a clue to its impressive interior. Elegant and stylish, it retains many of its original features, and offers a choice of exquisite spots to take your vows with your loved ones. The Devonshire Suite, with its modern décor and expansive space, caters for up to 250 guests, while the Cavendish Ballroom provides a beautiful backdrop featuring stone pillars and floor-toceiling windows; the Derby Room is a light and airy space for smaller weddings of up to 50. Catering from the in-house Drakes Restaurant promises a menu to impress, and the calm space of Nelsons Lounge is a lovely retreat for those after a peaceful moment before revelling in the party atmosphere. With 98 bedrooms, your guests can make a real weekend of the celebrations in the heart of the city. mercureweddings.com/hotel/mercure-exeter-rougemont
Mercure Exeter Rougemont Hotel
feature | VENUES GUIDE | HOTELS WITH CHARACTER
TENTS & TIPIS
The multi-award-winning World Inspired Tents has been hiring their spectacular giant Nordic tipis across the south-west for over 14 years. Accommodating between 50 and 1000 guests, the clever interlinking design of the tipis allows for every type of celebration, ensuring the wow factor is in full and fabulous force for intimate garden parties through to sprawling festival-style weddings. In addition, the team can supply everything from furnishings, lighting, bars, staging, dance floors and firepits to matted and covered walkways, catering tents, festoons and oak doors. All you have to do is pick the place and watch as the magic unfolds. worldinspiredtents.co.uk
Tipi Spaces
PhotographyNorringtonVenetia
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 set-up 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 organisers - and a marquee wedding to remember.
World Inspired Tents
PhotographyPriskKirstin
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feature | VENUES GUIDE | TENTS & TIPIS
Dreaming of a so-you wedding under canvas? Be inspired by these fabulous outdoor wedding specialists
VENUES GUIDE:
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. What’s more, 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
Skybar Weddings
PhotographyTibblesRob
skybarweddings.com
Marqueeweddingsareaplatformtogiveintoyourimaginationandweareheretomakethathappen.HereatSkybarWeddingsweunderstandthateachwedding
Whenchoosinghowtospendyourbigday,decidingonamarqueeisjustthebeginning. isasindividualanduniqueasyouareandthatnothingshortof perfectionwilldo.
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NORTH COAST WONDERS
feature | HONEYMOONS | NORTH COAST WONDERS
From the rugged cliffs and sprawling sands to the wild moors and leafy valleys, North Devon is a dream destination for a honeymoon. Here’s our edit of some starry-eyed spots to spend those just-married days words Rebecca Matthews
118 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Like a sprawling ocean liner perched on the edge of the Atlantic, all clean lines and neat balconies, the iconic Saunton Sands Hotel is a sight to behold. Dotted with deckchairs and sun loungers hugging a heated outdoor pool, its manicured grounds slip down to three miles of golden sands, with far-reaching views across Braunton Burrows and the coastline beyond.
Inside, the hotel blends its art deco heritage – think golden accents, geometric patterns and glinting chandeliers – with vast, light spaces and windows filled with sea and sand.
There’s so much to explore along this dramatic stretch of North Devon’s coastline: take the coastal path to Woolacombe and Croyde, walk the sprawling sands of Saunton, take a surf lesson just below the hotel or even have a go at kitesurfing or paragliding. Or you might simply sink into a deckchair with a good book and enjoy the soothing sound of the ocean lapping the shoreline below.
Source Spa and Wellness takes the Saunton Sands experience to an even more blissful level. Views across endless sand and sea fill the floor-to-ceiling windows of the marine-inspired Thermal Suite where you can bathe in the mineral-rich saltwater of the vitality pool, inhale the salt particles in the steam room, heat up in the Finnish aroma sauna and cool down at the ice
NORTH COAST WONDERS
As well as welcome touches such as a Bose sound system, complimentary mini bar and Nespresso machine, the Sea-Facing Deluxe rooms come with a snug king-size bed and private balcony with mesmerising views – a sublime spot to relax while gazing at the breaking waves.
When it comes to dinner, the choice of dining offers something for everyone, whether you fancy fresh-off-the-grill steaks, hearty burgers or classic fish and chips at the relaxed Beachside Grill or British classics crafted from the finest local produce served alongside sparkling Atlantic views in the glamorous two-AA Rosette Dining Room.
also draw on the breathtaking natural environment to soothe, invigorate and nourish, harnessing nature’s energy to take you to a heavenly space (I can highly recommend A Chance To Dream, a dreamy full body massage). Reclining on the rooftop sun deck to the murmur of the ocean is the perfect endnote to a heavenly experience. There’s also an indoor pool and gym.
Best for… swoon-worthy seascapes and a stunning spa SAUNTON SANDS HOTEL
Thefountain.spatreatments
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sauntonsands.co.uk
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Best for… country charm and luxe touches ROSE COTTAGE
Blending 18th century charm with contemporary luxuries, Rose Cottage offers a heady blend of romance and relaxation to while away those blissful just-married days. What’s more, its location in the village of High Bickington offers a convenient base for exploring both Exmoor and Dartmoor as well as the North Devon coastline, all within the tranquil setting of a pretty English village.
The thatched cottage is full of character and cosy features, from the historic wooden beams and log wood burner to the snug sofa and super-king French bed. Take a dip in the William Holland copper bath – big enough for two –and enjoy the designer kitchen and gadgets including a 43-inch TV (complete with Netflix and DisneyPlus for fireside snuggles) and Sonos surround system. In the Mediterranean style garden, there’s a luxury hot tub under a gazebo and a large seating area for al fresco dining under the stars.
Located less than a mile down the valley, guests are invited to enjoy fishing and walks at the idyllic Millbrook Estate; you might even arrange private dining in The Summer House or a treatment in The Pamper Room. Back at your cottage bolthole, book the Romantic Package for champagne and chocolates on arrival and, for lazy mornings, enjoy breakfast hampers delivered to your door.
rosecottagedevon.co.uk 120 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Best for… coastal escapism and Scandi style THE OLD APPLE STORE As far as locations go, The Old Apple Store takes some beating. Nestled in the scenic village of Lee near Woolacombe, this hideaway is set amidst rolling countryside within walking distance to the sea, and a gentle stroll to the village pub. Perfect for unwinding, the modern-rustic retreat is decked out in contemporary neutrals and a soothing Scandi style, with beamed ceilings, a sink-into-me bathtub and a wood burning stove. The beautifully decked courtyard comes with a cedar hot tub where you can gaze out across the surrounding patchwork of meadows as you sink into its bubbling waters followed by an al fresco dinner beneath starlit skies. Lose yourself in a good book and whip up some hearty feasts in its cosy surrounds or venture out to explore the coastal and country walks on your doorstep for a magical and deeply relaxing mini-moon. boutique-retreats.co.uk
Nestled at the heart of the 32-acre Millbrook Estate, an idyllic sweep of lush pasture and wildflower meadows dotted with lakes and resident chickens, ducks and alpaca, Corncott is a dream spot to switch off from the clamour of modern life and savour some slow together-time.
www.millbrookcottages.co.uk/corncott.php
Matthew Heritage Photography
NORTH COAST WONDERS
Best for… rural tranquillity and dreamy views CORNCOTT
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As well as North Devon’s scenic walks and adventure playground on the doorstep, you’ll be able to while away those precious days exploring the tranquil climes of the private estate. We love the idea of following the path into the woods, lit with fairy lights, and sinking into the warm waters of the hot tub before a feast in the BBQ House or private dining in The Summer House.
A heady blend of original features, modern furnishings and luxe facilities, there’s a king-size bed topped with Egyptian cotton linen, a free-standing bath and underfloor heating in the bedroom, together with gorgeous views across the lake and grazing alpacas. There’s also a beautifully equipped kitchen and modcons ranging from a 55-inch LCD TV with Netflix to Amazon Show with Amazon Music for chilled out days watching films and listening to music.
Clovelly
A grade-II listed Georgian country house flanked by picture-perfect gardens, Moreton House is a dream mini-moon destination for anyone with a penchant for Bridgerton-esque romance, while its location on the edge of Bideford, just over a mile from the coast, makes it a perfect spot for exploring one of the most scenic stretches of North Devon.
Croyde
iStock/tatyana_tomsickovaiStock/ianwooliStock/RolfSt 122 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Best for… outdoor adventures and Bridgerton vibes MORETON HOUSE
FOR THE LOVERS
The four stylish apartments offer high ceilings and period charm alongside comfortable beds and modern facilities. In the cosy Bakehouse Suite, for example, you’ll find a glossy modern kitchen with the original bread oven at its heart, as well as an en suite wet room and private deck with a barbecue and firepit – a perfect spot for a sundowner. Then there’s the light and airy climes of The Buck Suite, with its elegant, Edwardian-inspired furnishings, roll-top bath and views across to the clifftops of Westward Ho!
Stroll hand in hand through the steep cobbled streets of Clovelly and enjoy the romance of this charming little village, from the huddle of whitewashed cottages bedecked with flowers to the quaint harbourside and serenity of the Clovelly Court Gardens. Take a boat trip to explore the coastline from the ocean and enjoy a dinner of freshly caught fish, crab or lobster before mesmerising views across the quay.
The Valley of Rocks
The Valley of Rocks is one of North Devon’s most spectacular spots: its aweinspiring rock formations slipping into a lush valley with the sweep of Atlantic beyond making for the most mesmerising scenery for a romantic picnic or sunset stroll. Look out for the resident wild goats and maybe stop for a cream tea at the tearoom. Head to nearby Lynton and Lynmouth for a meander around the winding streets and a ride on the Victorian cliff railway.
From epic landscapes to charm-filled villages, make loved-up memories in these stunning North Devon spots
moretonhousedevon.com
feature | HONEYMOONS | NORTH COAST WONDERS
Nestled amidst an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Croyde offers surf, sand, scenery and charm-filled pubs to relax after an exhilarating day in the great outdoors. Whether you don a wetsuit and head into the surf, take a walk to Baggy Point to take in the breathtaking views across the coast or hunker down in one of the historic inns for dinner washed down with local ales, you’re bound to make starry-eyed memories in this beautiful spot.
With the A39 close by and bikes and boards provided, the whole of North Devon and Cornwall is easily accessible for adventures on land and sea. Head out on the coast path, catch some waves at Croyde or take the ferry to Lundy Island and look out for the resident puffins. Or simply enjoy relaxing, picnicking and barbecuing in the gardens of your country house bolthole – and maybe even treat yourselves to a romantic private dining experience in the comfort of your apartment.
123 Cakes lindyadamsfoster.co.uk01822610219 Fireworks Hair & Beauty www.devonbuntinghire.co.uk Tel. 01803 329978 / 07890 196338 T: 01208 78790 M: 07814 014233 www.celebrationpyro.com Contact Roger or Thomas Bricknell Members of the British Pyrotechnists Association and CBI Explosives Industry Group Fireworks www.cornwallweddingentertainment.co.uk Fireworks www.hannahtaylorweddingstylist.co.uk PHO T OGRAPHY Creative. Modern. Timeless LBIPP 01803 324255 | 07970 MAXIPHOTOGRAPHY.COM767684 Photography Stationery Wedding&eventstationery Calligraphy&Engraving info@caboodle.wedding Instagram:@caboodleweddings www.WholeCaboodleDesign.etsy.com THEWHOLE Lolarosephotography www.thewildpins.co.uk07805063953 “I love that i’m getting to share this beautiful photo (captured by Will Reddaway photography) of our bridal hair and newly mother-in-law” Photography Catering lindyadamsfoster.co.uk01822610219 Fireworks Hair & Beauty Tel. 01803 329978 / 07890 196338 T: 01208 78790 M: 07814 014233 www.celebrationpyro.com Contact Roger or Thomas Bricknell Members of the British Pyrotechnists Association and CBI Explosives Industry Group Fireworks www.cornwallweddingentertainment.co.uk Fireworks www.hannahtaylorweddingstylist.co.uk Hair & Beauty t: 07812572512 e: info@thepopupsalon.co.uk w: www.thepopupsalon.co.uk HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTS Photowww.nicolapettitt.comshootforolyashishkina.comPhotography by wolfjamesphotography.com HAIR & MAKE-UP The Studios www.theeventstudios.co.ukjai@theeventstudios.co.uk07734214139 01803 324255 | 07970 www.maxiphotography.com767684 HairPhotography&Beauty Photography PH OT OGRAPHY Creative, modern yet timeless imagery LBIPP 01803 324255 | 07970 WWW.MAXIPHOTOGRAPHY.COM767684 *VIDEO*NEWfor2020 Photography Stationery Wedding&eventstationery Calligraphy&Engraving info@caboodle.wedding Instagram:@caboodleweddings www.WholeCaboodleDesign.etsy.com THEWHOLE Lolarosephotography “my thighs felt like www.bloominsexy.com Bridal lingerie www.thewildpins.co.uk07805063953 “I love that i’m getting to share this beautiful photo (captured by Will Reddaway photography) of our bridal hair and newly mother-in-law”CateringDécorCatering 19/03/2012 08:14 specification 07807 153 cake@peboryon.com091www.peboryon.com licensed mobile bar service 01326 weddingbarscornwall.co.uk375747 edistuo www.theroundkitchen.com Menus designed around you! tel 07968 206116 YOURYOURCEREMONYWAY Weddings • Naming Ceremonies Renewal of Vows • Other Celebrations CELEBRANTS PERSONAL | UNIQUE | CORNISHBESPOKE Nicola Le Couteur Bisson 07716 992 526 Denise Whitehair 07967 533 359 Ceremonies Please contact 07585 009 735 or email hello@sayitwithlights.co.uk for more details. Availabletohireforanyevent! 07972 917 161
Glas Events 07568 055520 glasevents.com
Venues
Peter Prior Photography 07590 983418 peterprior.com
Maxi Photography 01803 324255 maxiphotography.com
Exeter Golf & Country Club 01392 874139 exetergcc.co.uk
Holwell Farmhouse 07955 279779 holwellfarmhouse.co.uk
Emma Hewlett Floral Design 07766 237975 emmahewlett.co.uk
Freeformimages Photography 07846 926029 freeformimages.co.uk
Pretty Smithy Bridal 01803 362392 prettysmithybridal.co.uk
Posh Booth 07973 800879 poshbooth.co.uk
Cakes & catering
Entertainment
Toby Lowe Photography 07800 805081 tobylowephotography.co.uk
The Wild Pins 07805 063953 thewildpins.co.uk
Kate Walker Bridal 01404 598145 katewalkerbridal.com
The Remarkable Goldsmiths 01803 473179 theremarkablegoldsmiths.co.uk
Coombe Trenchard 01566 783179 coombetrenchard.co.uk
Upton Barn & Walled Garden 01884 38302 uptonbarn.com Woodbury Park 01395 234723 woodburypark.co.uk
The Lamb Inn at Sandford 01363 773676 lambinnsandford.co.uk Moreton House 01237 moretonhousedevon.com425519
Corrinne Eira Evans 07853 158861 corrinneeiraevans.com Drakes 01752 drakesjewellers.co.uk227775
Sonic Fireworks 01884 849222 sonicfireworks.co.uk
Tipi Spaces 01884 277306 tipispaces.co.uk
Melanie Barnfield Photography 07878 919561
Posh Nosh 01392 444877 posh-nosh.co.uk
Flowers
Offbeat Entertainment 07725 117639 offbeatentertainment.co.uk
Hotel Endsleigh 01822 870000 hotelendsleigh.com Hurlditch Court 07720 hurlditchcourtweddings.co.uk889585
Days of Grace 01395 daysofgracevintage.com443730
Hareston Manor 01752 880401 harestonwedding.co.uk
Celebration Pyrotechnics 01208 78790 / 07814
celebrationpyrotechnics.com014233
Peboryon 07534 617059 peboryon.com Porsham Cakes 01752 776730 porsham.co.uk
Brickhouse Vineyard 01626 682287 brickhousevineyard.co.uk
Jewellery
Bridal wear
The Great Barn thegreatbarndevon.co.uk The Venue at Sandy Cove 01271 882243 sandycove-hotel.co.uk Tree Top Escape 01769 629069 treetopescape.co.uk Trevenna 01579 320013 trevenna.co.uk
Justin Duance 01736 368395 justind.co.uk
St Ives Bridal Boutique 01736 799413 stivesbridalboutique.co.uk
Bickleigh Castle 01884 855363 bickleighcastle.com
Haldon Belvedere 01392 833846 haldonbelvedere.co.uk
Harefield Barn 07541 121404 harefieldbarn.co.uk
Photography
Pirouette 01392 pirouettethecollection.com432643
Knots & Kisses 01837 52885 knotsandkisses.co.uk
Skybar Weddings 01872 553383 skybarweddings.com
Wedding planning Clover & Fern cloverandfern.co.uk 07770 736815
Décor hire & styling
Jennifer Jane Photography 07881 941668 jenniferjanephotography.co.uk
Keeping It Vintage 01209 203291 keepingitvintage.co.uk
The Velvet Daisy 07790 692221 thevelvetdaisy.co.uk
Gershwins Hairdressing 01626 202112 gershwins-hairdressing.com
Stationery
Glas Events 07568 055520 glasevents.com
Michael Spiers 01752 661981 / 01392 666590 michaelspiers.co.uk
Clare Kinchin Photography 07759 157964 clarekinchinphotography.co.uk
The Pop Up Salon 07812 572512 thepopupsalon.co.uk
The Oak Barn 01647 24641 theoakbarn.co.uk Polhawn Fort 01752 822864 polhawnfort. com
Powderham Castle 01626 890243 powderham.co.uk Pynes House 01392 431403 pyneshouse.co.uk Rockbeare Manor 01392 797444 rockbearemanor.co.uk St Nicholas Priory nicholaspriory.com
ADVERTISER INDEX 124 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Freckle Photography 07870 185277 frecklephotography.co.uk
Nova Wedding Photography 01392 430853 novaweddingphotography.co.uk
Beauty
Fireworks
Knots & Kisses 01837 52885 knotsandkisses.co.uk
World Inspired Tents 01271 542632 worldinspiredtents.co.uk
Fuss Pots 01271 850025 fusspots.co.uk
The Ivory Lounge 01752 875702 theivorylounge.co.uk
The Lucky Sixpence 07786 546207 theluckysixpence.co.uk
Marquees
Erin Cox 01392 660836 erincox.co.uk
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Beautiful love stories from across Devon
got wed | CAERA AND RICH 126 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Photography Bethany Wilson Photography bethanywilsonphoto.com
Walking down the aisle to the sound of a string quartet was Caera’s favourite moment of the day. “I had dreamed of walking down to strings playing my favourite song as a little girl, and it was the most magical, perfect moment,” she reflects.
“Makecelebrations.sureyou
Venue Brickhouse Vineyard brickhousevineyard.co.uk
Wedding styling & stationery Knots & Kisses knotsandkisses.co.uk
The couple were in Cyprus for Rich’s parents’ 30th wedding anniversary when the trip became a double celebration. After thwarting his plan to propose at Cyprus Zoo (“he kept asking to go for a walk and all I wanted to do was sit down as it was so hot!”), Rich took Caera for a post-dinner walk to the beach. “The sun was setting and everything looked perfect; after a bit of fumbling in his pocket, he got down on one knee and proposed,” she recalls.
Dress Cymbeline Paris from Browns of Totnes brownsoftotnes.co.uk Groom’s outfit Moss Bros moss.co.uk
Hair Olivia Rose Hair & Beauty oliviarosehairandbeauty.co.uk
Make-up Melanie Thornton MUA melaniethornton.co.uk
Flowers Emma Hewlett Floral Design emmahewlett.co.uk
Entertainment 4tissimo String Quartet 4tissimo.co.uk
The quartet continued to play during the drinks reception before a memorable and emotional set of speeches preceded a sumptuous feast including thyme and smoked garlic chicken thighs, baked salmon side, banoffee pie and sticky toffee pudding. A bouncy castle kept guests young and old entertained throughout the day, while live band New Daze stoked up the party vibe for the evening
Flower girls’ dresses Next next.co.uk
New Daze instagram.com/newdazeband
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“Caera and Rich first met while working together at a local restaurant the summer after her first year at university. “Rich had been working there for a few years as a waiter, and we started talking,” she says. “From there we pretty much spent all summer together and have been inseparable since!”
Caera and Rich had a clear vision for their day. “We wanted something intimate, romantic and close to us in Devon, and Brickhouse Vineyard was just perfect! It has beautiful views with a cosy barn vibe,” she says. Wedding stylist Nikki Sherriff from Knots & Kisses helped them to create a day inspired by neutral and earthy tones featuring dried pampas, cream wildflowers and lots of greenery. “She made everything completely stress-free and it all looked perfect on the day,” comments Caera.
CAERA AND RICH by BETHANY WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY bethanywilsonphoto.com
plan time to go for a walk just the two of you,” says Caera of the importance of taking it all in. “We did this straight after the wedding breakfast and it was nice to be alone, just us for a “Goingwhile.”for extra photos in the evening was probably one of our best decisions,” she adds. “The sun coming through behind us created really intimate and romantic images.”
Bridesmaids’ dresses Lá Closet Dé Chánel laclosetdechanel.com
Transport Hummer 4 U Limousines hummer4u.co.uk
Caera and Rich’s dreamy wedding combined neutral hues, wildflowers and memorable music at Brickhouse Vineyard
Live the Dream
Speaking of which, she implores other couples to gain confidence in front of the camera ahead of the wedding if possible. “Definitely do a pre-wedding or engagement shoot,” she advises. “If you’re as awkward in front of the camera as us, a little practice is always welcomed! It puts you at ease so much more on the day.”
Exeter Bouncy Castles exeterbouncycastles.co.uk
got wed | CAERA AND RICH
“I truly felt like all my dreams had come true”
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“After years of planning disruption,andbeing able to look out on our guests enjoying the day made worthwhile”everything
Hair Debbie Wright Bridal Hair debbiewrightbridalhair.co.uk
“Stop planning at a certain point!” she urges other couples. “In the end we realised that despite our best efforts we couldn’t control it all. Take a step back and enjoy the process, it goes so fast.”
“Our flowers were a family effort, which was so special,” comments Chloe. “Harry’s mum had been growing flowers in preparation for our original wedding and some were still in bloom. We used these along with some wildflowers to DIY our own centrepieces and bridesmaids’ bouquets, and both my nans helped make all the arrangements the day before the wedding in my hotel room.”
Chloe and Harry threw their dream garden party wedding, filled with laughter and personal touches at Rockbeare Manor
She had her dress altered to feature Juliet sleeves, while on the day the unseasonal weather prompted another last-minute modification. “In the evening, I had an impromptu change into a jumpsuit I had on standby – I didn’t plan to change, but it was so hot and I was ready to party!” she reveals. The rest of the wedding party were equally as eye-catching, with the bridesmaids a vision in burnt orange gowns and the groom’s party in debonair navy suits.
Venue Rockbeare Manor rockbearemanor.co.uk
Rockbeare Manor presented “the most magical place and people” for their May garden party wedding that had to be postponed until October due to Covid. “We wanted to keep elements of that original theme – a mix of natural foliage, sage green and white – while warming it up to suit the new autumn date, so we added burnt orange and maroons for a classic October feel,” explains Chloe.
“Overall, it was the laughter,” says Chloe of the resounding memory from the day. “You think of your wedding day as emotional and romantic, but what made it for us was how much fun we had, especial ly after the very difficult few years we all experienced.”
Décor hire Unique Designs by Tina uniquedesignsbytina.com
Lawn games The Prop Factory propfactory.co.uk
After taking their vows beneath two huge trees in the Dining Room (described by Chloe as “our personal favourite touch!”), guests spilled into the gardens for lawn games before a feast featuring sirloin of Devon beef, whole lemon roasted chicken and sweet potato gnocchi. After a competitive quiz about the newly-weds, everyone tucked into their favourite pudding: an English afternoon tea featuring scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, apple cake, chocolate choux buns and raspberry pavlova.
Entertainment Inspired Party inspiredparty.co.uk
Chloe first met Harry when they shared accommodation at university. “We hit it off as friends, mostly because I had a habit of cooking too much food and Harry enjoyed finishing the leftovers!” laughs Chloe. “One night, Harry stole a kiss while out at a social event, and the rest fell into place!”
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CHLOE AND HARRY by SAMUEL BOX PHOTOGRAPHY samboxphotography.co.uk
Harry whisked her away for what she thought was a spontaneous weekend break to distract them from the stress of buying their first home together. “He took me to the seaside for a stroll and picnic on the beach, and planned to pop the question under the sunset sky,” she explains. “Instead, it rained all day so we had to picnic in the car, we were drenched on the romantic stroll, and we missed sunset as we were on the wrong side of the hill! It was perfectly imperfect and we wouldn’t change a thing.”
Photography Samuel Box Photography samboxphotography.co.uk
Videography Moments To Media momentstomedia.com
“The cake was another family affair!” adds Chloe. “My mum made and decorated the cake, with my nan making the fruit cake base. My dad spent hours helping to wire the floral centres with my mum and they even added a fondant cocker spaniel to include our fur baby on the day!”
Dress Allure Bridals from Always & Forever Bridal & Menswear devonbridal.co.uk
October Song
Groom’s outfit Limehaus limehaus.com
Flowers In Bloom Devon inbloomdevon.co.uk
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135 W W W . C L A R E K I N C H I N P H O T O G R A P H Y . C O . U K
www.brickhousevineyard.co.uk
Unique, intimate wedding venue in Devon.
IMAGE BY THE UNBRIDELED
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With friends and family contributing towards everything from the flowers and the cake to Johanna’s headpiece, she recommends delegating wherever you can. “People tend to love getting involved and contributing to a festive occasion like a wedding – and it made all the difference,” she advises. “We also had two friends on hand to deal with all the logistics and queries that inevitably come up, which took the pressure off us and meant we could just enjoy the day.”
Cake Queen Bee Cakes queenbeecakes.org.uk
Groom’s outfit – jacket Ted Baker tedbaker.com/uk
Tipi Tipi Spaces tipispaces.co.uk
Décor hire Fanfare Event Hire fanfareeventhire.co.uk
Dress Pirouette pirouettethecollection.com
“We were enjoying the views when he got down on one knee. I thought he was tying his shoelace so crouched down with him to rest and he had to ask me to stand back up so he could propose!” laughs Johanna. “It took me so much by surprise I just burst into giggles!”
tipi consisted of a medley of vegetarian Middle Eastern shared platters including Lebanese lentil ragout, tabbouleh and muhammara, and was followed by an orange blossom and cardamom Eton mess. The evening continued to treat guests’ taste buds with pizzas as the couple’s DJ friends took it in turns to play sets into the small hours.
Johanna and Michael first met at a street food market in London back in 2009. “A mutual friend introduced us and, after a couple of friendly lunches, we started dating,” she says. Twelve years later when Johanna was seven months pregnant with their second child, Michael proposed while walking in Bampton.
Flowers Bluebells & Blossom bluebellsandblossom.co.uk
Biodegradable tableware Little Cherry littlecherry.co.uk
Jeans Marks & Spencer marksandspencer.com
Johanna wore a custom-made gown created from a lace top, chiffon and silk skirt, and a beaded belt, for their beautiful humanist ceremony under the trees, which included a pagan handfasting. Cake, bubbly and afternoon tea followed alongside garden games. A day filled with entertainment, a bouncy castle, face painting, treasure hunt, kids disco, dress-up basket and craft area delighted the 50 children at the wedding, while the adults enjoyed a quiz, a traditional Viking game and a competitive round of tug of Supperwar.inthe
JOHANNA AND MICHAEL by EMMA STONER PHOTOGRAPHY emmastonerweddings.com
The couple rented a duo tipi from Tipi Spaces with an attached pagoda to accommodate the 150 guests attending their “local, low-key wedding” in an apple orchard across from their home in Bickleigh. “We had the ceremony amongst the blossoms, the wedding breakfast in a tipi and the evening dancing in the village hall,” says Johanna, who deliberately planned the wedding date to coincide with the apple trees blossoming. “We thought that would provide a beautiful, natural décor on the day,” she explains. “The ivory tipis created a lovely backdrop to the colourful decorations and gave lots of light in the day. They also created an atmospheric cosy feel in the evening once the fairy lights came on.”
Photography Emma Stoner emmastonerweddings.com
Flower girls’ outfits Coco Flower Girls etsy.com/uk/market/coco_flower_girl
Johanna and Michael’s tipi wedding was filled with spring blossom, colourful details and fun-filled activities for guests young and old
Beneath the Blossom
Catering Eran’s Kitchen eranskitchen.co.uk
“Having 50 kids at the wedding was a worry, and it felt like we were catering for two separate parties, but actually they made the atmosphere so relaxed, fun and colourful,” says Johanna while reflecting upon their day. “We also catered a breakfast followed by a walk the next morning, which allowed us to catch up with people that we hadn’t chatted to during the wedding day.”
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“We had so many people helping and it made all the difference”
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Written in the Stars
Sian and Jack’s relaxed, rural wedding was inspired by their favourite things
Bridesmaids’ dresses ASOS asos.com
Catering The Wild Picnic Company wildpicnics.co.uk
Entertainment Ezmay Grace ezmaygracemusic.co.uk
Hair Hair by Hannah hairbyhannah.net
Dog chaperone A Pad 4 Paws padforpaws.co.uk
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Papavero Pizza Company papaveropizza.com
“As the weather was really touch-and-go, we didn’t think we’d actually be able to get married in the garden, so the most magical moment was when it all went ahead and we were stood with each other in that beautiful garden exchanging our vows,” reflects Sian.
Photography Grace Elizabeth grace-elizabeth.co.uk
SIAN AND JACK by GRACE ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY grace-elizabeth.co.uk
“Stick to your vision and don’t let anyone else’s opinions dilute your day!” she adds as a note of advice to others in the midst of planning.
Opting for a garden ceremony, the couple exchanged vows before joining their guests for a feast in the barn. In keeping with the relaxed mood of the day, they chose picnic hampers brimming with local goodies (“that went down an absolute storm”) and arranged a cake table for dessert.
One Christmas Eve, Jack treated Sian to dinner on Plymouth Hoe and asked that all-important question. “We went for a post-dinner walk down by Smeaton’s Tower to look at the stars and, whilst I was busy trying to get my stargazing app to work on my phone, Jack suggested we sit for a moment on a bench…and then proceeded to pop the question! It was so dark outside I couldn’t even see the ring so, after enthusiastically saying ‘yes!’ I then ran up to the nearest lamppost to take a look at it!”
Make-up Justine Olver justineolver.co.uk
When asked to pick her favourite moment from the day, Sian is so spoiled for choice that she selects two. “Having our rescue golden retriever, Gus, with us on the day was absolutely amazing,” she says. “I made treat packets for our guests so that, if they saw Gus, they could give him a treat and a pat on the head – I’m so glad I did this because everyone loved having an excuse to say hello to him!”
Flower girl’s dress JJ’s House jjshouse.co.uk
“Some guests even brought along their own bakes to add to the spread, which was such a lovely touch,” says Sian. “And we made sure there were cardboard takeaway boxes so guests could fill a box of goodies to enjoy on the taxi ride home too!”
Groom’s outfit Prudence Gowns prudencegowns.com
Flowers Milla at Hayne haynedevon.co.uk
Two Scoops Tricycle instagram.com/twoscoopstricycle
A range of entertainment included two acoustic sets from their talented friend, Ezmay Grace, alongside a pub quiz and ice cream trike as guests revelled into the evening.
“I used to secretly laugh at his jokes from across the office,” smiles Sian of her and Jack’s workplace romance. “We kept ‘accidentally’ going to make coffees at the same time and the rest is history!”
Hayne fulfilled their venue brief of “pretty with laidback vibes”, with the bonus that everything was in one location – and that they also provided the ceremony flowers from their own cutting garden. “I’ve always preferred wildflowers,” comments Sian. “Everyone got a bit emotional when the bouquets arrived in the morning – they were just so beautiful.”
Taking Sian’s favourite colour of periwinkle blue as the starting point, the wedding was planned “to feel informal, with a personalised twist”, explains Sian. “So we just tried to inject as many of our interests into the day as possible!” An illustrator in her spare time, Sian created all the stationery herself, while her mum handmade the jam favours.
Venue Hayne Devon haynedevon.co.uk
Dress Wed2B wed2b.com
“We’re not a very traditional couple, so I wanted everything to reflect that”
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145 WEDDING PH OT OGRAPHY KATHERINE 07718 733843 / STEPHAN 07899 794005 THE OLD MANSE, WHIMPLE, EXETER, EX5 2SS WWW.NOVAWEDDINGPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
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Age of Elegance
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The dress code was equally as chic. Accessorised with a bouquet of white roses and a sleek updo, Olivia donned an elegant strapless gown with a beaded bodice. “I fell in love with the first dress I tried on,” she says. Meanwhile Phil was the epitome of modern suave with a navy three-piece suit, tan brogues, sage green tie and white rose buttonhole.
“Shortly after the birth of our child Immie, Phil took me to Salcombe for the night,’” says Olivia, reminiscing about their engagement. “As it was my first night on the wine since having our daughter, I got a little drunk, so Phil’s original plan to propose over a romantic dinner didn’t happen! Instead, when I woke in the morning he got down on one knee beside the bed and popped the question,” she smiles.
Olivia and Phil’s intimate wedding blended bundles of white roses, eucalyptus and gypsophila with an idyllic rural backdrop
“Keep it simple,” says Olivia when asked what her best piece of advice would be to other couples in the midst of wedding planning. “Don’t worry about impressing anyone but yourselves, and enjoy every moment as it goes by so quickly.”
Photography Melanie Barnfield Photography melaniebarnfieldphotography.com Venue Welbeck Manor Hotel and Golf welbeckmanorandgolf.co.uk
Hair Therapy Hair Boutique teamtherapy.co.uk
OLIVIA
Olivia relished a champagne breakfast and memorable morning of preparations with her nearest and dearest. “Getting ready with the girls and walking down the aisle,” she cites as her fondest memories from the day, made all the more poignant by the soundtrack of her grand entrance and aisle walk by singer, Angel Flukes.
Flowers Emma Brinsden Florist emmabrinsdenflorist.co.uk Cake Cakes by Kate cakesbykateuk.com Entertainment Angel Flukes instagram.com/angelflukes
Spicy starters of tom yam soup, coconut shrimps and red pork noodles primed appetites for a main course of cod fillet, pad Thai chicken and red curry vegetables served with pineapple fried rice. The speeches were served in-between courses, after which an evening of dancing continued well into the early hours, leaving Olivia and Phil exhausted but elated, and full of reflection upon their day.
Dress Abella Bridal Boutique abellabridal.co.uk
Make-up Victoria Ansell Bridesmaids’ dresses Ever Pretty ever-pretty.co.uk Groom’s outfit Suits Plus suitsplusbristol.com
New wedding venue Welbeck Manor Hotel and Golf was the setting for their elegantly styled wedding, which took a simple yet striking colour scheme of sage green and white. A stunning mix of white roses, eucalyptus and gypsophila formed the basis of the floristry, while the tablescapes were beautifully pared-back with a single white rose in a vase with a hint of greenery and a scattering of gypsophila throughout. The three-tiered cake echoed the contemporary styling, with a hint of sparkle and white sugar roses adding romance.
After the ceremony, guests gathered on the decking for cocktails and canapés of mango cups, Thai shrimp and spring rolls as Angel continued to deliver her stirring vocals ahead of the delectable wedding breakfast.
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OLIVIA AND PHIL by MELANIE BARNFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY melaniebarnfieldphotography.com
“Getting ready with the girls and walking down the aisle were my favourite moments of the day”
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Ruth couldn’t have been more surprised when Anthony dropped to one knee at home on an average Thursday back in 2019. “It was unexpected, understated and I loved it,” she reflects. “The best part was that he had also organised a surprise engagement party for the next evening. He told all our guests that it was a belated housewarming party, but we got to surprise them instead with our engagement news!”
Ruth and Anthony’s wedding had all the ingredients of a perfect summer celebration, with a Greek feast, al fresco vows, fun games and plenty of sangria!
Tableware South West Event Hire southwesteventhire.co.uk
Ruth and Anthony’s decision to do a last dance proved another standout moment. “We were both nervous at the thought of a sober first dance so we decided to finish with our favourite song, Mumford & Sons’ There Will Be Time, and it brought all our guests together for one final dance. What we thought would be daunting turned out to be one of the best bits.”
Dress The Wedding Company the-wedding-company.co.uk
Engagement celebrations over, the couple set about finding a venue for their vision of a “relaxed, rustic but people orientated wedding” – and Harefield Barn was the perfect fit. “One of our best decisions was that we chose to host our wedding at beautiful Harefield Barn,” says Ruth. “We loved the idea of a DIY wedding where we could bring in suppliers who would fit our day, and the owners, Deborah and Robert, were so welcoming and helpful that we knew it was a good match!”
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Groom’s outfit Zebel zebel.co.uk
Ruth and Anthony relished the opportunity to put their stamp on their big day. “After the pandemic we were all just in need of some good quality time with friends and family, so we focused on great food, fun games, minimal formalities, and the best sangria recipe,” she says. The styling celebrated both the season and rural setting through a burnt orange hue paired with natural textures, from chip board signage to bundles of dried flowers.
Emily Zade Rickard instagram.com/emily.rickard84
And any nerves at the prospect of posed photos vanished on meeting their photographer, Kat. “She made us feel so comfortable and really became part of our day – in doing so, she was able to capture the real side of it, not just the picture-perfect moments,” says Ruth. “Don’t compromise on your photographer!” she adds as a note of advice.
Bridesmaids’instagram.com/kimbowenbeautymuadresses ASOS asos.com
Catering The Greek Outdoors thegreekoutdoors.com
Flowers The Barn Florist barnflorist.co.uk
In keeping with the summer vibe, the couple opted for a Greek feast. “We wanted hearty and delicious food that would be perfect for a summer wedding. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about it!” enthuses Ruth who savoured this special meal at a sweetheart table with Anthony. “We wanted the day to be all about time with family and friends but taking this moment to take it all in, enjoy our delicious Greek feast and people watch was a highlight.”
Summer Love
Entertainment Emma Pick instagram.com/pick_emma Retro Disco retrodisco.co.uk
Cake Ben’s Bakes bens-bakes.co.uk
The wedding favours also delighted their guests. “Our first date ended on a shot of Licor 43 so we wanted our married life to start on one,” says Ruth. “Anthony finished his fantastic speech and then asked all our guests to join us. Seeing all our loved ones take a shot with us was such a highlight!”
Hair A Salon Called Hare asaloncalledhare.co.uk
Photography Kathryn Clarke-Mcleod Photography kathrynclarkemcleod.com
Make-up The Brow Lady facebook.com/TheBrowLadyX
After the outdoor ceremony, where the couple took their vows before views across rolling meadows, the festivities kicked off in style with sangria, games and live music from Emma Pick.
Kim Bowen
Venue Harefield Barn harefieldbarn.co.uk
Exe Valley Pizza Co. exevalleypizza.co
RUTH AND ANTHONY by KATHRYN CLARKE-MCLEOD PHOTOGRAPHY kathrynclarkemcleod.com
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“We focused on great food, fun games, bestformalitiesminimalandthesangriarecipe”
RUTH AND ANTHONY by KATHRYN CLARKE-MCLEOD PHOTOGRAPHY kathrynclarkemcleod.com 153
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Romantic Weddings at Tree Top Escape! Unique Weddings - Intimate and Exclusive with up to 14 guests – Luxury – Mini Moon Included – Fine Dining in The Nest – The Grill-Haus – Vintage Afternoon Teas – Stunning Natural Scenery – Stress Free Award Winning Customer www.treetopescape.co.ukService 01769 629069
got wed | CRISTINA AND RUPERT got wed 156 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Entertainment Bamboleo Band bamboleoband.com
After Will proposed to Nell on a sunny November morning, choosing a wedding venue was an easy decision. “We got married at Will’s family home, Coombe Trenchard,” says Nell. “What makes it so special is the amount of different areas which open up like a jewellery box – from two large terraces to the grand inside rooms and the leafy coach house. Then there are the gardens to wander, play croquet and take in the views of Dartmoor.”
Hair Laura Bukin instagram.com/laurabukin
Classic RomanceWhere the Wildflowers Grow
Homegrown flowers, fiesta grooves and vows with Dartmoor views made for the most enchanting wedding for Nell and Will
Photography Nick Walker Photography nickwphotography.com
The wedding breakfast proved another highlight of the day. “Our favourite dishes were the smoked beetroot with preserved lemon crème fraiche, toasted hazelnuts and fennel seeds and the local catch of the day in a Café de Paris sauce with nasturtium leaves,” she says. A selection of ice creams served from a tricycle rounded off the feast.
everyone and only do the bits that you want to do! Find a venue where you can build a good relationship with the events manager. The rest will fall into place,” she advises other couples. “Also, make mood boards for the different sections of the day to help you narrow down a style and communicate your vision to suppliers.”
Venue Coombe Trenchard coombetrenchard.co.uk
Groom’s outfit Suit Supply suitsupply.com Bouquets, flower crowns & buttonholes Joanna Game instagram.com/joannagame_flowers Table & walkway flowers Sarah Marsh, Coombe Trenchard coombetrenchard.co.uk
Looking back, Nell cites a particularly fond moment that stands out in her mind. “Standing arm in arm with my dad, we heard the music and he looked at me and said: ‘I think it’s our time’. The moments that followed were overwhelmingly emotional. Seeing Will, surrounded by all our favourite people and our dog Louis set against the majestic views of Dartmoor, was more beautiful than I could ever have
Dress Katya Katya katyakatya.co.uk
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Bridesmaids’ dresses Topshop at ASOS asos.com
Make-up Gisele Michel-Gendre instagram.com/gisellemichelgendre_mua
Nell and Will were the first couple to have their ceremony on The Italian Terrace. “Elegant stone columns frame a view of Brent Tor and cross-backed chairs were arranged in an arc shape to echo the stone centrepiece,” she explains. All grown from seed at the venue, Will’s mother Sarah arranged the flowers, lining the walkway with wildflower meadow boxes bursting with deep reds, oranges, muted pinks, whites and greens.
The homegrown blooms also brought gorgeous colour to the tables, while handmade napkins and ceramic pinch pot favours from Nell’s mum added further character to the place settings. “The combination of these elements paired with candlelight was magical,” reflects Nell. “At night, this area was transformed into a Mamma Mia! style affair. Tables were cleared, the disco ball was lit and the band struck up a Gipsy Kings number. We danced late into the night to Bamboleo Band fuelled by coffee liqueur and Cornish spirits from the Peacock Bar.”
Catering Beautiful and the Feast beautifulandthefeast.com
Flower girls’ dresses Little Linen Stories at Etsy etsy.com/shop/linenlittlestories
The couple drew on the enchanting setting for the look and feel of the day. “We wanted the wedding to feel rustic yet refined with a muted earthy colour palette and plenty of wildflowers,” explains Nell. “In light of the house’s history, there were also nods to the Edwardian Arts and Crafts style with Liberty print ties and my choice of dress.” The perfect mix of traditional and fashion-forward, her Katya Katya gown paired a French floral lace top with a tiered tulle skirt, which was altered so she could remove the last layer for the evening.
Ice cream trike The Dartmoor Ice Cream Company dartmooricecream.co.uk
“Don’timagined.”trytoplease
Stationery Mingo Mingo Studio mingomingo.co.uk
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“Seeing Will, surrounded by all our favourite people and our dog Louis set against the majestic views of Dartmoor, was more beautiful than I could ever have imagined”
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offers stunning countryside views, set in manicured grounds around a pretty courtyard and surrounded by a moat, the magnificent Castle with its beautiful Italian gates offers the perfect historic backdrop. This most impressive and historical estate is one of the leading Castle Wedding venues in the UK and is the perfect location for your dream wedding. Where Wedding Dreams Do Come True! An English Historical Landmark Bickleigh Castle bickleighcastle.comBickleigh Castle, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 8RP | 01884 855 363 | weddings@bickleighcastle.com BC_Wed_mag_Sept2019_154x225.indd 1 18/09/2019 11:00
for all seasons.
Located in acres of beautiful Devon countryside, Bickleigh Castle is the perfect wedding venue
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Time out.
NOTES ON A WEDDING
Show your guests they will be well looked after throughout the day by offering a glass of fizz or a soft drink (tea, coffee or hot chocolate go down well for
Sign of the times.
Good start.
Happy feet.
Child’s play.
Designating someone to meet and greet your guests will help them feel instantly welcome. Choose a member of your family or bridal party or a member of staff who can let guests know the order of the day and answer any questions. Hazel
Feast time.
regular | NOTES ON A WEDDING
Does your partner’s family speak a different language?
Inviting children to your wedding? Book a company that provides a childcare and entertainment service so their parents can relax. If your venue has the space, you could also hire a bouncy castle or outdoor garden games. Jessica
Personalised place settings are a great icebreaker
BethanyWilson
Including your guests’ photographs at your wedding, whether it’s displaying their wedding photos or a photo of each family group, will encourage conversation and stir fond memories. These could work either as a separate display or incorporated into the table display, such as a place setting or part of the centrepiece. Hazel
In the picture.
Role play.
Put some thought into your favours. Think about adding a personal touch or writing a little note explaining how much it means to you that they are there to celebrate your wedding. Jessica
A personal touch.
Bring your guests together the night before the wedding - perhaps over a sit-down meal, barbecue or picnic - to welcome them while giving them a chance to meet each other in a relaxed setting and build up excitement for the next day! Hazel
Display your guests’ photos
Hazel
Gift thoughtful favours such as mini bottles of Tinkture rose gin
DesignsYetiPhotography
Not all guests will want to be in the hustle and bustle of the party, so create quiet spaces with comfy chairs for them to retreat to. Sophie
Ensure your guests keep on dancing well into the night by providing them with flip-flops or flat shoes to change into if their heels get too much. Jessica
Enlist a professional childcare service such as Cornwall Childcare
Hazel Parsons, Out of the Ordinary Weddings outoftheordinaryweddings.com Jessica Kearney, Ardour & Bow Weddings & Events ardourandbow.co.uk Sophie Walker-Sünderhauf, The Little Details by Sophie thelittledetailsbysophie.com
Warm welcome.
Your guests will want to know what’s going on and where everything is – make these things obvious with creative signage so they don’t have to ask! Sophie
Liquid refreshment.
Welcome your guests with creative signage
Are your guests staying on-site with you? Leaving welcome bags in their rooms filled with local information and refreshments is a thoughtful gesture. Sophie
Involve your guests in the day, whether it’s giving individual guests a particular role (such as a reading at the ceremony, introducing the first dance, helping as an usher with car parking and guiding other guests), involving the whole congregation in songs at the ceremony or adding interactive elements to the speeches. Hazel
Greet your guests with preceremony drinks
Ensure your guests know the order of the day
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
Personalised place settings are a fantastic icebreaker. Some recent examples we have seen include name cards with a picture of a celebrity with the same name (e.g. a guest called Danny may have a picture of Danny DeVito) and Lego figures representing each guest.
Guests will love these personalised place settings from Rocha
Throw a relaxed dinner the evening before the wedding
WalkerNick BridesEnchanted PhotographyWedsSouth FentonAriannaWildeHannah iStock.com/ViewApart GrantLampard 162 Devon #52 2022 www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Speak easy.
Hire a bouncy castle for guests young and old
Including their language throughout the day will make them feel welcome. Even if you don’t have a bilingual ceremony, ensure the order of service is in both languages so they can follow along as well as your menus and signage. Sophie
Fabulous favours.
the colder months) as they arrive at the ceremony. As well as helping them relax into the ceremony, it will introduce them to the team who will be taking care of them. Hazel
163St Ives Cornwall TR26 1SE 01736 799 413 www.stivesbridalboutique.co.uk sayyes@stivesbridalboutique.co.uk
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