Cornish Issue 37/2015
Be Inspired During the course of a year, we get to meet around
One of the best things about working for Cornish
2,500 brides-to-be at our Cornish Brides Shows,
Brides is that we are contacted every day by
which is a lovely thing. It also means that we get to
incredibly talented and lovely people from all over
chat with a lot of these soon-to-be brides and are
Cornwall, the UK and the world who have come
able to find out what they want from a wedding
across Cornish Brides and want to tell us about the
show and a bridal magazine. The overwhelming
beautiful products they are making and supplying
response is they want to be inspired.
to brides across the globe; because the world is now a much smaller place, thanks to the internet.
Most brides already have a good idea about how they want their wedding to be and they know the
Now we’re not saying you should organise your
sort of products and services that are available to
wedding over the web or that the things we
them, but they just need someone to give them the
showcase in Cornish Brides are exactly what you
inspiration to go out there and pull the whole thing
are looking for. What we try to do - and hopefully
together; to get them to think outside the box a little
achieve - is to plant the seed of an idea that will
and dare to be different. The vast majority of the
allow you to go out and find the products and
brides we meet, as well as those who call our office
services that you really want for your big day.
or email us, love Cornish Brides for this very reason. They say we always go that extra mile for them,
providing
lots
of
useful
information,
interesting features and articles and above all, the inspiration they have been looking for.
There is absolutely no right or wrong way to organise your wedding and no wedding is better than any other. Each is completely different and utterly unique and no-one has the right to tell you otherwise.
This is your day, you should do
And that, essentially, is what Cornish Brides is all
whatever you want; the suppliers you have chosen
about. We will never try to tell you how to arrange
to help you create your dream wedding should feel
your wedding or ply you with lists of what you
honoured and privileged to do just that.
should or shouldn’t do.
We will simply find
beautiful things to show you - from all corners of the globe - to give you the ideas and to inspire you to use your imagination to create the wedding of your dreams.
Throughout 2015, Cornish Brides will continue to inspire you, through the magazine and at our Cornish Brides Shows, but at the end of the day, the decision is always and absolutely yours!
Cornish Brides
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in
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Hair Couture - stunning and stylish styles for your wedding day
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Brides Retreat - everything you need to ensure you look and feel your best on your big day
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Cornish Brides Awards - a review of November’s glittering awards ceremony
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The Grapevine - keeping you up-to-date with all the latest bridal chatter
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Wedding Day Worries - what are the things that keep brides-to-be awake at night?
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Cornish Brides Awards Winners - introducing this year’s winners
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Doing It Your Way - our guide to ensuring you get the wedding of your dreams
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Wild About Flowers - some romantic and rustic floral ideas for your wedding day
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Temptress Bride - a real bride shares her experiences of her wedding night
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Cornish Brides Ask - we ask a number of industry experts to share their thoughts and views
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It’s All About The Bride - Cornish Brides’ Editor gives an insight into life at CBHQ
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Cornish Brides Awards Winners - introducing more of this year’s winners
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The Grapevine (2) - keeping you up-to-date with all the latest bridal chatter
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Grooming ‘Andsome - our special feature for fashion-conscious grooms-to-be
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Up Close and Personal - an indepth insight into award-winning English Rose Stationery
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Happily Ever After - Cornish Brides ‘Best Friend’, Carley Wetting shares her wedding experiences
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Honeymoons - our guide on where’s ‘hot to honeymoon’ this year
plus
21 pages of
fabulous
designer dresses
FRONT COVER : VINTAGE CHIC Photography: Victoria Walker Photography Hair: The Hair Boutique, Truro Make-up: Martine Rodda, DeModa Hair & Makeup Dresses: Ellis Bridal Flowers: Art of Flowers, Cornwall Model: Imogen Purdy Location: Penmorvah Manor, Falmouth
www.cornishbrides.co.uk Publisher & Head of Sales Colin Robinson Editor-in-Chief Janice Robinson Communications Manager Neill Mabbott Administrator Kirsty Forbes Illustrations by Lisa Grenfell Cornish Brides Glenthorne House, Truro Business Park Truro, Cornwall TR3 6BW Tel: 01872 270169 Email: info@cornishbrides.co.uk
The inclusion of any article or advertisement in this publication does not constitute any form of accreditation by the Editor. Every effort is made to ensure that advertisements appear correctly. However, no responsibility can be accepted for errors to individual advertisements. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE ANY ADVERTISEMENT WHICH WE CONSIDER TO BE UNSUITABLE OR INAPPROPRIATE FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS PUBLICATION. © Cornish Brides and/or individual advertisers or contributors. All rights reserved. No part, written or visual, of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.
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alan hannah alfred angelo amanda wakeley sposa anna romysh haute couture annasuly augusta jones blue bridalwear bonny bridal brides by desire by wendy sullivan callista bridal caroline atelier caroline castigliano charlotte balbier charlotte mills christos costarellos cocoe voci cymbeline david tutero for mon cheri eliza jane howell elika in love ellis bridals emma hunt emma tindley enzoani eternity bride gino cerruti ian stuart ivory & co bridal jack sullivan bridal jenny packham jesus peiro johanna hehir karen willis holmes katya katya sherhurina linea raffaelli lou lou lusan mandongus lyn ashworth by sarah barrett maddy madeline isaac-james maggie sottero mia mia nomiquel suay miranda templeton mooshki Choosing your wedding dress is one of the most mean feat and you will need to try on quite a few exciting things you will do. But it is also one of the to get a feel for what suits you and what doesn’t. You boutique naomi neoh nicky flynn nicola anne nicola harvey couture nilah & company novia most daunting. Let’s be honest here, this is don’t want to be rushed or feel pressured, so by something you have got to get right, there are no making an appointment, you know there will be d’art opulence ozlem suer phil collins phoenix gowns qiana bridal raimon bundo romantica second chances and the dress you wear on your someone on hand with expert knowledge of the day will remain firmly and resolutely in dresses to help and guide you through the process sadoni group sassiwedding holford sophia tolli so sassi stephanie allin couture stephanie james couture your memory (and your wedding photos) forever. and someone who can give you the time and attention that selecting a wedding dress merits. stephen yearick terry foxyou’vetia benjamin Chances are, beenby thinking about this one roberts tiffany true bride venus gowns watters particular item of clothing for quite some time and You might think it’s a good idea to take a whole no doubt got a decent sized wish-list in mind bunchkatsura of family and friends with youjamal and turn the alan hannah alfred wendy makin white ivyyou’vewhite rose yolancris yumi zaeem when it comes to the kind of dress you want. But the experience into an opportunity for a bit of female first thing you need to do is setanna a budget. romysh Wedding bonding and a laugh. It really isn’t, so please don’t. angelo amanda wakeley sposa haute couture annasuly augusta jones blue dress prices can vary greatly depending on whether Choose one or two trusted confidants who you know are buying off-the-peg or going will be absolutely honest with you. Too many bridalwear bonnyyoubridal brides bycompletely desire by wendy sullivan callista bridal caroline atelier bespoke. Be realistic and don’t assume that you opinions and you will end up with completely the to break the bank balbier to get the dress charlotte of your wrong dress for you, so keep it simple and keepcocoe it caroline castiglianoneed charlotte mills christos costarellos voci cymbeline dreams. Most bridal boutiques carry a range of serious. absolutely stunning gowns from some of the best david tutero for mon cheri eliza jane howell elika in love ellis bridals emma hunt emma tindley One of the most common misconceptions that designers in the world at very reasonable prices and brides-to-be have about choosing their dress is the absolutely nothing wrong with checking out enzoani eternity there’s bride gino cerruti ian stuart ivory &it will cotake bridal sullivan bridal jenny length of time to actually jack get their hands their sale rails either, because there are some on the dress. Choosing the dress can take quite fantastic bargains to be had. packham jesus peiro johanna hehir karen willis holmes katya katya linea raffaelli some time in itself, then it needs to be sherhurina ordered, A recent survey by Cornish Brides magazine showed made, fitted, altered, fitted again and delivered; this lou lou lusan mandongus lynnotashworth bydress sarah barrett madeline that most brides did ultimately choose the whole process maddy can take up to 6-8 months. The isaac-james maggie they had originally set their heart on, which came as chances of you finding a dress that you can take a surprise to them but notmiranda to us. Most brides-to-be with you on theboutique day are slim-to-none, so be sottero mia mia miquel suay templetonawaymooshki naomi neoh nicky flynn have a fixation with a particular type or style of realistic and give yourself plenty of time. It is not but when they try it on, they invariably unreasonable to start looking dress a year nicola anne nicoladress,harvey couture nilahfind& company novia d’artfor youropulence ozlem suer phil that it simply does not suit them and, with the help before your wedding, but definitely don’t leave it to of their chosen bridal boutique, they then try on the last minute because you will besadoni seriously limiting collins phoenix gowns qiana bridal raimon bundo romantica group sassi holford other styles which work perfectly and look stunning. your choices and could end up very disappointed. sophia tolli so sassiTherestephanie allin couture stephanie james couture stephen yearick terry fox are a number of excellent bridal boutiques in Of course, every bride wants to look stunning and Cornwall and if you are just browsing, most will be beautiful on her wedding day and most accomplish tia by benjamin roberts tiffany true bride venus gowns watters wendy makin white ivy white happy for you to walk in off the street, so to speak exactly that and you will too. They key is to be true and have a look. But if you want to try dresses on, to yourself and don’t try to be too outlandish or rose yolancris yumi katsura zaeem alan hannah alfred angelo amanda wakeley sposa then you really should call ahead andjamal make an daring. Play it safe by choosing a dress that suits appointment because choosing a wedding dress is you, fits you well and that you feel comfortable and anna romysh hautenot couture annasuly jones bridalwear bonny bridal brides by like buying any other item of clothing.augusta For one confidentblue in. That way, you will look a million thing, you want some privacy and you will need dollars and your memories of your wedding day will desire by wendy sullivan callista atelier caroline charlotte balbier some help. Getting in and outbridal of a weddingcaroline dress is be ones that you will cherish forcastigliano the rest of your life. charlotte mills christos costarellos cocoe voci cymbeline david tutero for mon cheri eliza jane howell elika in love ellis bridals emma hunt emma tindley enzoani eternity bride gino cerruti ian stuart ivory & co bridal jack sullivan bridal jenny packham jesus peiro johanna hehir karen willis holmes katya katya sherhurina linea raffaelli lou lou lusan mandongus lyn ashworth by sarah barrett maddy madeline isaac-james maggie sottero mia mia miquel suay miranda
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The Bridal Studio Come and visit our beautiful bridal boutique in Helston. Wendy Makin (exclusive) Benjamin Roberts (coming soon) Pheonix Gowns and Gino Cerruti Richard Designs Veils Jewellery (hand made in England) Hats, Fascinators & Bags ... plus so much more.
Everything for the Bride 11 Wendron Street Helston Cornwall Tel: 01326 560903 www.bridal-studio-helston.co.uk
Stylish Bridal Boutique in the heart of historic Launceston.
Stunning collections from Romantica of Devon Phil Collins Tiffany Bridal Tia by Benjamin Roberts including their beautiful ‘Gorgeous with Curves’ Prom and Bridesmaids Shoes, Shrugs, Boleros, Veils Belts, Jewellery, Tiaras, Hair Accessories and our wonderful Wedding Wellies!
12 Church Street, Launceston PL15 8AP
01566 778989
www.lowenbridal.co.uk 26
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Extensive collection of beautiful Wedding Gowns in sizes 8 - 28 Stunning gowns in a variety of styles and fabrics Bridal • Bridesmaid • Mother-of-the-Bride • Accessories HUGE STOCK CLEARANCE OF ALL THINGS BRIDAL including wedding dresses, veils, tiaras, jewellery and shoes and some mother-of-the-bride outfits
Our lovely new showroom is now open The Back Store • 4 Boscawen Road • Perranporth BY APPOINTMENT ONLY PLEASE
01872 573377
Being
Watched ...
BEING WATCHED Photography: Victoria Walker Photography; Hair: The Hair Boutique, Truro; Make-up: Martine Rodda, DeModa; Dresses: Ellis Bridal; Model: Imogen Purdy; Location: Penmorvah Manor, Falmouth
HAIR c outure Revlon Professional unveils its ‘Yes, I Do’ Collection 2015
What bride needs expensive or glitzy jewellery when hair can look this good? Taken from Revlon Professional’s ‘Haute Couture Collections’, the hair itself becomes an exquisite and precious jewel to perfectly complement the bride’s dress without the need of further adornment.
Revlon Professional ‘Yes, I Do’ Collection 2015 - Artistic & Creative Direction : Miguel García Cotado Photography : Xevi Muntané Wardrobe : Rosa Clará Hair : Bozena Sarek and Ziortza Zarauza Make-up : Kuki
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No-one ever said that a wedding can’t be fun and frivolous. Just take a look at these crazy creations ... would you dare?
Crazy
The
World of Weddings Magical Millinery A wide-brimmed hat by Vivienne Sheriff, covered with fun foam sweeties and her signature sash made of wrappers sewn together and a truly flamboyant extravaganza of exploding liquorish swirls and jewelled catherine wheels framing a quintessential top hat by Halo & Co.
Read All About It An intricately pleated 1980’s newspaper dress under layers of pleated organza and tulle by Sanyukta Shrestha.
Good Enough to Eat A powder-puff fantasy 1950’s style short dress by Ian Stuart embellished with a mountain of marshmallows and a tealength vintage dress by Stephanie Allin adorned with dainty Dolly Mixtures.
Images courtesy of White Gallery London
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Sometimes it is the strangest collaborations that are the most effective and who are we to argue with the amazing alliance between Ladurée - the famous French luxury bakery and sweet-maker, best known for its iconic macaroons - and Mikimoto - the renowned Japanese jewellery company, famous for creating the most sumptuous and precious pearl jewellery. These two quintessential brands have come together to present a gorgeous range of gift boxes adorned with drawings of the famous Mikimoto pearls and containing a selection of delicious Ladurée macaroons in pearly shades of pink with a delicious pink rose and lychee filling. A romantic gift for someone very special in your life. www.mikimoto.co.uk
Loving these personalised, hand-poured scented candles made with high quality essential oil and Eco Soy Wax. They can be gift wrapped to present to your hens or purchased as a special gift for your bridesmaids. Would also make beautiful favours for your wedding guests. All candles are handmade and there are three gorgeous scents to choose from Jasmine, Gardenia or Bluebell. Each candle is printed with the bride-to-be or couple’s name, the wedding venue and the date in a lovely vintage style heart design. www.hearthandheritage.co.uk
Spread the Love with these fun jam jar favour labels. Perfect for home-made jam or chutney wedding favour jars. The labels come on a sheet of 21 and are printed with your names and the date of your wedding, along with 21 recycled tags printed with the jam/chutney variety to ensure your guests know exactly what they are getting. www.wildflower-favours.co.uk
Personalise your top table with this beautiful silverware and ensure that each of your most important guests goes away with an extravagant and unique gift of your special day that they can cherish forever. Each piece of cutlery can be customised by hand with a message of your choice and every letter is hand-stamped which means no two pieces are ever the same. Each piece has a vintage feel and is available with either a simple or ornate handle. Or how about these fabulous personalised drink stirrers for your reception cocktails? Another chic idea to bring a touch of class to your wedding and to ensure your guests receive a personalised keepsake. www.thecutlerycommission.com
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Pure Escapology Leading home fragrance house, Ashleigh & Burwood have unveiled their luxury new fragrance, ‘Seychelles', part of the signature ‘Escapology' collection. Ashleigh & Burwood invite you on an aromatic journey with this collection, which is inspired by some of the world's most captivating locations. Headlining the range is the glorious ‘Seychelles' fragrance which allows you to create a tropical paradise in the comfort of your own home. Slip into a state of blissful relaxation with your fiancé or new husband as your senses embrace the nutty sweetness of tropical coconut with top notes of red fruits blended with fragrant Indonesian ylang ylang which surround a centre of tiare and coconut, supported by a gentle base of sweet vanilla and white musks. Other fragrances in the ‘Escapology' collection include Kerala Spice, Egyptian Cotton, Koh Samui, Madagascan Vanilla, Moroccan Rose. ‘Escapology' fragrances are available in a scented candle, reed diffuser and a Luxury Home Fragrance Collection, with a 50ml reed diffuser and two votive candles for the ultimate gift or just pure self indulgence. www.ashleigh-burwood.co.uk
Present Tree We love this novel idea of a ‘tree in a box’ - the ideal present for a bride and groom and a gift that really will last a lifetime. This blossoming family-run business offers customers a selection of beautiful trees growing in organic pots. Every tree is nurtured by founder Catherine Cunningham and her team; hand selected at the time of purchase, gift-wrapped in organza and then carefully parcelled and posted, with a personal message. But what makes these trees special is their ancient symbolism ... every tree has a story and a unique meaning. The Camellia, for example, symbolises love and devotion. The Silver Birch is for new beginnings and protection while the Cherry symbolises good fortune and future happiness. There are a number of different trees available, each with their own poignant meaning, so the choice is yours. www.thepresenttree.co.uk
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Gala
ght i N s d Awar
256 business entries
more than
5,250
votes cast
14 WINNERS
60 finalists
one amazing night
C
hoosing the right suppliers for your wedding is a daunting task. Choose well and your day will be perfect, but make the wrong choices and things could be very different. Cornwall boasts a veritable wealth of hugely talented and dedicated people who work within the bridal industry and who strive to ensure that the brides and grooms who entrust them with their weddings receive exactly the high levels of service they deserve. To be involved in a couple’s wedding is a privilege, but it also comes with massive responsibility, so it is important there is an independent forum where couples can honestly and openly recognise and reward those businesses and individuals who have helped turn their wedding day dreams into a reality. A way of saying ‘thank you’ for their hard work and dedication. That is exactly what happened to fourteen Cornish businesses recently and each of them is now the holder of a prestigious Cornish Brides Award for excellence within the bridal industry. Now in its fourth year, the awards attracted 256 business entries and a staggering 5,250 votes were cast before 60 finalists were invited to join us at The Hotel Victoria in Newquay for a glittering ceremony last November. The really great thing about the Cornish Brides Awards is that they are voted for by brides - and grooms, of course - who have actually experienced the products and services offered by the businesses taking part. As usual, the competition was fierce and we knew from early on in the voting process that it was going to be a close-run thing. Mid-way through last year, we announced our 60 finalists and voting then continued until the end of October with the lead in many of the contested categories changing on an almost daily basis. The Cornish Brides Awards give you the chance to publicly recognise and thank those businesses who you have entrusted with your wedding day. A lot of hard work goes into making your day perfect in every way and if you think one or more of your chosen suppliers deserves an award, then why not vote for them in this year’s awards which will be launching soon. Winning a Cornish Brides Award can drastically change the fortunes of a business as many of our past winners - and finalists - can testify. It is hugely gratifying for them to know that their efforts are appreciated and it gives futures brides and grooms the confidence to use their services and, hopefully, have as wonderful an experience as you did!
You can read more about all the Cornish Brides Awards Winners on pages 64 and 86
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WEDDING DAY
WOR
RIES
what is it that keeps you awake at night in the weeks before your wedding? Janice Robinson looks at the results of a recent survey.
It really doesn’t matter how much planning you have done, how much time you have spent on the details or how many contingency plans you have put in place. The truth is that when it comes to your wedding day, there are just some things that you can do absolutely nothing about. The first thing that will doubtless spring to mind is the weather. Yes, the good old British weather, which we all know is so utterly unpredictable. It doesn’t matter what time of year you are getting married, there are simply no guarantees when it comes to nature and the elements. The famous explorer, Sir Ranulph Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes, once said; ‘there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate attire’. That may well be so, but that little gem of wisdom is not going to appease a bride when she wakes up on the morning of her wedding to find the rain pouring down in torrents. Unless, that is, she is prepared to forego her beautiful wedding dress and expensive hand-made Italian shoes for a mac and wellies! No, I don’t know anyone who would do that either. So, what is it that worries brides the most? Well, a recent survey of more than 1,000 brides-to-be has revealed, not surprisingly, that bad weather is definitely the number one wedding woe. Almost 40% of brides said they absolutely dreaded waking up on their wedding day to find it raining and more than half said rain would definitely ruin their big day. But can you really allow anything to spoil your day? There is no easy answer, I am afraid, so surely the best thing is to accept that it might rain - even if you are getting married in July or August and then, if you do wake up to blue skies and sunshine, look upon it as a bonus; fear the worst, but hope for the best. Of course, it certainly wouldn’t help to have some large white golf umbrellas on hand, just in case and you can get some really snazzy white bridal wellies, so if you really do want photos taken in the countryside, you in your dress and wellies could raise a smile and add a certain unique quality to your album. Again, it all goes to your state of mind and if you resolve to the make the best of it, no matter what, then you can turn the situation into a positive and still have as much fun - perhaps even more! You should definitely talk to your photographer about your weather worries because most will be able to allay your fears and will know how you can get fabulous photographs regarding of the elements. 58
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Second on the worry list was the dress becoming damaged or dirty and the wedding car breaking down came in third place. You do need to take care with your dress and if the worst happens, there is usually someone on hand who can quickly step in with a needle and thread or a stain-removing solution. Wedding cars are usually well maintained and whilst a breakdown is not unheard of, a reputable car company will have a standby ready or a contingency plan in place. Another major worry for the imageconscious bride was having a ‘bad hair day’ and 6% said they feared an outbreak of pimples. Again, the fear is worse than the reality and if you are using a professional hair and make-up artist, they will easily be able to deal with such issues. Almost 9% of brides said they were worried about their flowers wilting, but your florist will ensure that doesn’t happen. Tied in sixth place was the best man losing the rings and either the bride or groom getting their vows wrong. Now here, I do have some personal experiece because at my wedding, my now husband vowed to take me ‘as his awful wedded wife’ and the worse thing was that he didn’t even realise he’d said it! The fact that the small gathering of family and friends were falling off their chairs seemed something of a surprise to him and even when his ‘slip of the tongue’ was pointed out by the Registrar, he made no attempt to rectify it, so I’m not entirely sure our marriage is even legal! Anyway, the moral of the tale is that it didn’t spoil our day at all and we still laugh about it now - well, I’ve certainly never let him forget it, put it that way! Bringing up the rear of the list is the cake collapsing - which I think is so highly unlikely that it doesn’t even merit a second thought. Inappropriate speeches can be embarrassing, but you could always ask to see a copy of any speeches that are being made and being ill on the day, which would be incredibly unfortunate and again, something you would have no control over, so try not to stress out about it. And as one bride-to-be commented, ‘I have spent so much time and money on this wedding that I will crawl up the aisle, if necessary’ - stoic words indeed! When it comes down to it, you just have to have utter faith and belief that your wedding day will be wonderful and it is up to you to enjoy it, regardless of what happens. Sometimes it is the unexpected that can actually make your day even more special. You definitely should not allow anything to ruin your day and certainly not just a drop of rain!
With beautiful sweeping views of Summerleaze Beach in Bude, the Edgcumbe is the perfect venue for an elegant wedding - ideal for those with smaller budgets or simply those who prefer a more intimate affair. You and your guests can celebrate your perfect wedding day in our candle-lit filled ceremony room, glass fronted sun lounge and enchanting snug bar. We offer you the choice of full ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening celebrations or a bespoke package and we will ensure your special day is tailor-made to your individual requirements and needs. The Edgcumbe Beachside Accommodation and Venue can also be exclusively yours with the inclusion of our 12 en suite bedrooms. Please contact our wedding co-ordinators Emma and Becky on 01288 353846
Summerleaze Crescent, Bude, Cornwall EX23 8HJ www.edgcumbe-hotel.co.uk
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St Clether • Launceston • Cornwall PL15 8PS
Exclusively Yours ... a stunning Cornish countryside venue where you can say “I Do” Celebrate and stay in the same idyllic location www.tamill.co.uk 01840 261797
helen@tamill.co.uk
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doing it
YOUR
way!
Don’t let anyone steal your thunder when it comes to your wedding plans. This is your day, so make sure you do things your way!
It’s time to throw away the rule book because when it comes to your wedding, there are no rules! This is one of the few times in life when you can really let rip and do what you want, how you want and when you want ... and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Weddings are immensely personal and even if someone else is chipping in with some financial assistance, you should not allow them to dictate what you can do with their cash. Of course, be sensitive to their feelings and listen to their ideas and suggestions, but at the end of the day, you need to make your own choices and decisions. Lists are essential - without them, you will never remember all the things you have got to do, so if you’re not used to running your life by a list - get used to it. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did. Start as you mean to go on and write a ‘wish-list’ of all the things you would absolutely love for your wedding. You might not get them all, but a wish-list will get you thinking and you’ll be surprised at what will pop into your head. You’ll probably find that some of the things you started out thinking you just could not do without, will fall down the list of priorities as time goes on and some will slip off altogether. That’s the thing about organising a wedding, your ideas develop, your preferences change and your priorities alter on an almost daily basis. On a similar note, once you start looking into the details, you’ll find that certain things won’t work together - or at all - in the grand scheme of things. So, it really is best to keep an open mind and don’t necessarily disregard anything from the outset. Approach your wedding planning in a methodical and practical manner, rather than an emotional one and let things evolve naturally. Clear your mind of every wedding you’ve ever been to, forget what your friends have done or what you’ve read about and do what makes your heart sing, regardless of what you think other people might think! No two couples are the same, so it follows that no two weddings should be the same and let’s be honest, do you really want a carbon copy of the wedding your big sister had or a duplication of your best friend’s nuptials? Of course you don’t. You want your guests to go away from your wedding feeling as though it was the best and most original wedding they’ve ever been to. You don’t want them to be comparing your wedding - perhaps unfavourably - with other weddings they’ve attended. So, from the outset, look for new and unique ideas and if there is something you really want that you know you have come across before, adapt it so it becomes unique to you. 68
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It is important to bring your own sense of style to your wedding and let your personalities shine through - and yes, that means not just your personality, but your groom’s as well. Don’t be afraid to be different and don’t go for the obvious or easy choices, try to mix things up a little - it’s much more fun and you will end up with a really special, exciting and unique day. One that you will look back on in years to come with happiness and pride. Of course, a lot will depend on your budget, but don’t be fooled into thinking that you can’t have the things you want just because your budget is a bit tight. There are lots of ways to make savings; you just need to put your creative hat on and be inventive. For example, you can definitely make savings by choosing to get married out of the busy spring/summer months or by marrying on a weekday as opposed to a weekend. Most venues will offer preferable rates in such cases and you should not be afraid to talk to other suppliers about the savings they might be able to offer as well. The more flexible you can be, the more savings you should be able to make, so it’s always worth asking. And not everything has to be bought. Making things for yourself is hugely gratifying and immensely personal, so think about what you could perhaps turn your hand to. And whatever you do, follow your instincts. If it feels right, it probably is and if it doesn’t feel right, walk away from it. That applies to pretty much every aspect of your wedding from the venue to the dress to the cake and so on. Don’t let your suppliers railroad you into doing what they want you do or what they say is best. Advice is good, guidance is great, but this is your day and if they can’t provide the service you want, then find someone who can. The most important thing in all your wedding planning is communication between the two of you initially and then with everyone else involved. It’s all very well to say ‘I’m happy if she’s/he’s happy’ but the reality is you should both be happy. Happy with the choices you make together, happy with the day when it finally comes and happy with the memories after the event. So, do talk about everything, no matter how small or incidental it might seem, it is still one of the blocks that will make up the day as a whole and those blocks need to fit together perfectly. Oh yes, and don’t forget those lists. Write everything down. Cross items off as you deal with them and add new items as they arise. It’s an ongoing process right up until the day itself. Now, where’s that pen?
wild about
flowers Sometimes simple is best as these gorgeous images of Laura and Jack’s wedding show. We just love the muted colours with dusty pinks, pale lemons and lush lilacs - so very on trend at the moment. The romantic simplicity of these arrangements really suited the barn-style venue and brought a touch of wilderness to this lovely countryside wedding. The terracotta pots have been given a makeover with ribbon and the ‘jam jar’ and milk jug vases stayed true to the rustic theme, as did the wonderfully creative cake-stand and decorations.
www.artofflowerscornwall.co.uk
Photography by Tick Tock Photos
NORTH CORNWALL
A perfect choice for your beautiful and inspirational wedding flowers
Appointments in your home or at your chosen wedding venue can be arranged.
WEDDING FLORIST OF THE YEAR
WEDDING FLORIST OF THE YEAR
Also voted Bridal Business of the Year 2015
Please call Elaine or Emma
01840 212555 Celebrating 10 years of creating the most amazing flowers!
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www.bruallen.co.uk
TEMPTRESS Bride How will you feel by the end of your wedding day?
Will you be ready for a night of unbridled passion or about to collapse with exhaustion? One bride shares her very personal and memorable experience ...
More than anything, I wanted to be one of those sexy temptress brides that you read about in glossy magazines and see in films. The bride who, when her wedding day is over, still looks a million dollars with not a hair out of place and lip gloss still shimmering. The bride who takes her new husband by the hand and leads him up to the bridal suite - smiling a sultry, knowing smile as he follows with a look of growing anticipation. Yeah well, what I wanted and what I got were two entirely different things! For one thing, we got married quite early in the day. Our ceremony was at 12 noon and I’d been up since 7 o’clock that morning getting ready. Now, when I say I was ‘up’ what I really mean is that 7 o’clock is the time I actually got out of bed. I’d been ‘up’ most of the night because no matter how many wretched sheep I counted jumping over hedges in my head, sleep eluded me and I lay in bed going over and over all the things I still had to do before the wedding and all the things I had already done, ticking numerous items off virtual lists that just kept whirling around in my over-tired brain. So, there I was at 7 o’clock, in my dressing gown, awaiting the arrival of my hairdresser at 9.30. By the time the doorbell rang, I had spoken to my Mum on the ‘phone (three times), called my sister and my best friend - who were also my bridesmaids - to ensure they were up, getting ready and still on schedule to arrive at my house at 10am, I’d had a bath, eaten half a bowl of soggy cornflakes - they were soggy because my second ‘phone call to Mum to check that the flowers had been delivered was made just after I’d poured the milk over them and I’d hoovered through the dining room and lounge. Now I can’t say with any degree of certainty why I did that, it just seemed like a good idea at the time and I thought it might help to take my mind off things but it really didn’t!
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So, where was I? Oh yes, my hairdresser arrived at 9.35, by which time I was almost ready to spontaneously combust because she was so late. I can now concede that five minutes is not long in the grand scheme of things, but on that particular morning, five minutes was an eternity and a lot of things went through my head in those three hundred seconds; things that could have positively ruined my entire day. I had just got to the point of having to ‘phone my Mum again to cancel the entire wedding, when she arrived, completely unflustered and seemingly unaware that becuase of her, I had just been to hell and back! My sister arrived at 9.55am - mainly because she knows what I’m like and she knew her life would not be worth living if she was late. My best friend followed her at one minute to 10, yes, she was pushing her luck, but fortunately, I was already under the dryer by then, so she got away with it. My sister’s best friend, who was doing our makeup, was in situ by 10.15am and all went well for the next hour while we were brushed, rolled, tonged and sprayed and I actually found myself relaxing - just a little, you understand. Just after 11, my Dad arrived, with the flowers although I later discovered that he had actually left the house without our bouquets and had got halfway to my house before he got a frantic call from Mum which saw him making a somewhat dangerous u-turn on the ring road. Thank heavens I didn’t know about that at the time. By 11.20, I was stepping into my dress with the help of my sister and best friend, while Dad read the paper in my nicely hoovered lounge. At 11.40, the cars arrived and the girls set off for the church, leaving me and Dad to follow a few minutes later. By 1.30pm, I was a married woman, but that did not make things any easier. Yes, the ceremony was over and it had gone without a hitch,
although my dear groom stumbled a little on his vows and did actually get my name wrong at one point, which caused a ripple of amusement among our assembled guests, although I must confess, I did not even hear the slip as I was so busy concentrating on my own vows, which I am pleased to say were faultless. And there was still the rest of the day and the entire evening to get through. The photos outside the church seemed to take an age and by the time we got to the group shot, my lovely 4’ heels were starting to give me grief. They were quite a narrow fit and it seriously felt as though the circulation had been cut off from my toes. On the way to the reception in our chaffeur driven limo, hubby decided to pop the cork on the bottle of bubbly that had thoughtfully been provided, only no-one explained to the driver that it probably wasn’t a good idea to put his foot down as he approached a set of traffic lights just as the bride in the back was about to take her first sip of Champagne. Of course, hubby didn’t help by filling the glass almost to the top, although there was only half a glass left after the rest had slipped down my cleavage. I also made the mistake of slipping off my shoes in the car, knowing that the journey to the hotel where we were having our reception was at least 20 minutes, although I hadn’t bargained on Evel Knievel in the driver’s seat. We arrived at the hotel in record time and I was still struggling to force my swollen feet back into my shoes as the car door was thrust open by a smiling and, in my dishevelled state, a thoroughly over-enthusiastic hotel manager. As I alighted from the car, I spied our photographer bearing down on me with his camera poised and I knew another 20 minutes of torture awaited me and my feet as he all but dragged us round the hotel’s extensive gardens. It would be quicker to say where we didn’t have a photograph taken!
Finally, at 3 o’clock we sat down for our wedding breakfast. My heart sank, though, when I remembered we had ordered Tomato Soup for our starter; there was no way I was risking that after the episode with the Champagne, so I asked for plain melon instead. The remainder of the meal and the speeches passed without incident and I have to confess that the shoes had come off again by the time my Dad stood up to speak. By now, it was 5pm and there was still a lot of mingling to be done before our evening reception got underway at 7 o’clock. I left my shoes under the table and the hotel manager very kindly retrieved them some time later, but they never went back on my feet. Fortunately, I had a spare pair of comfy sandals with me, which no-one even saw under my dress - I don’t know why I didn’t wear them from the start. During the following hours, I talked to so many people, often having the same conversation time and again. I walked what seemed like miles around the hotel with guests, looking for guests, trying to avoid guests and definitely keeping out of the way of the photographer! By the time my hubby grabbed my hand and led me onto the dance-floor for the first dance, I all but melted into his arms. Unfortunately, not with love or passion, but with exhaustion. I am pretty sure my feet did not actually touch the dancefloor. By midnight, I was barely coherent. I have
absolutely no idea how many times I was dragged up to dance or to talk to someone (yes, that same conversation again) and when I heard the words ‘last dance’ I was almost giddy with relief. I remember is was a particularly long song that the DJ played and more than once, I am pretty sure that I actually fell asleep with my head resting on my husband’s shoulder. Finally it finished. We were staying in the hotel’s bridal suite, so we didn’t have far to go, although almost another hour passed before we made our escape because there were people to thank and people to say goodbye to. As I staggered up the sweeping staircase - even my comfy sandals had been discarded by this point - I caught sight of myself in a huge mirror, although I truly wish I hadn’t.
My lovely hair was limp and half of it had fallen down from the stunning upswept style I’d had earlier. My eyes were dark and heavy, my lips were dry and my lovely dress - that had cost me more than a month’s salary - looked like it had been ripped off me, screwed up and then thrown back on again. As we entered the Bridal Suite, my head was thumping and I knew I’d had far too much Champagne. The huge king-size bed looked inviting, but for all the wrong reasons. My husband unzipped me and helped me out of my dress and I retreated into the bathroom to freshen up, but if I’m honest, my heart just wasn’t in it. It was nearly 1.30am, I’d been up for more than 18 hours and had barely slept in the last 36. I no longer cared that it was my wedding night. We’d been living together for four years, so did it really matter? Would it be such an awful start to our married life together and would hubby be terribly upset if we postponed the passion for a few hours? I opened the bathroom door and peered cautiously into the bedroom expecting to find him laying naked against the pillows with a look of lusty anticipation on his face. What I actually saw was him sprawled across the bed, fully dressed and snoring his head off. Phew, what a relief. Sexy temptress bride ... not before a good night’ sleep!
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UNIQUE AND AFFORDABLE WEDDING FLOWERS
PERSONAL ATTENTION ALWAYS GUARANTEED
EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE
Call Jules for a friendly chat or to arrange your FREE consultation : 01726 822946 or 07500 868163
www.artofflowerscornwall.co.uk 76
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For a wedding that’s as individual as you are
Rosewarne Manor
GWINEAR ROAD CONNOR DOWNS NR HAYLE CORNWALL TR27 5JQ
01209 610414 * FR Ava EE We ddin rea ilable g In der f sur s bo or all anc Co okin g th rnish B e * Ros eir ewa ride w s r ed ne M Plea se a ano ding a sk t r
Multi award-winning wedding venue - for food and service Three times Cornish Brides Awards Wedding Venue of the Year Finalist Winners of a CHEFS Platinum Award Three times Winners of Taste of the West Gold Awards
us fo r de t
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BRIDAL EXCELLENCE AWARD
"Taste of the West" Gold Award Winners
At Rosewarne Manor, you can be assured of fantastic food and an unrivalled menu choice. We cater for large and small weddings and can offer a choice of four ceremony rooms and a beautiful Bridal Suite. We have a superb location and pride ourselves on our friendly and helpful service. Exclusive use of the manor can be provided for ultimate privacy.
www.rosewarnemanor.co.uk
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It’s all about the
BRIDE
A personal insight into the world of weddings at CBHQ from Cornish Brides Editor-in-Chief, Janice Robinson as we approach our 15 Year Anniversary!
There comes a point in all our lives when we have to make some pretty tough decisions and sometimes these decisions can alter the course of our lives. That’s a pretty daunting thought and deciding to get married is one such decision. You’ve made it, though, and that should mean the difficult part is now over and you can move on to all the lovely, exciting things to do with the planning of your wedding day and spending the rest of your lives together. As a business, we are always making decisions because in order to succeed in a competitive market place, we need to constantly adapt the way we operate. Predominantly, however, Cornish Brides is all about the bride (in case you didn’t realise). We are passionate about weddings and we love helping brides-to-be achieve their absolute perfect wedding day. We are about to celebrate our 15 year anniversary, which is quite an achievement in itself and something we are immensely proud of. We’ve certainly come a very long way since the magazine was established back in 2000. It seems like a lifetime ago and when I look back at those early issues, it really is like taking a walk down memory lane. Sadly, a lot of the businesses we featured in those early days are no more and we’ve lost one or two good friends along the way, few of the people we deal with now, were there at the beginning of our journey. But the bridal industry moves at a rapid pace and as one business closes, four more open. We’ve also seen huge changes in the way brides plan their wedding and what they look for from suppliers. Weddings are now far more extravagant and the amount of time, energy and money a couple is prepared to spend on their ‘big day’ has increased significantly. We have noticed that brides take on far more responsibility these days with Mum and Dad staying in the background; there to offer help and advice when needed - and, in some cases, financial assistance - but today’s brides really know their own minds, they know what they want and they know where to get it. The bridal industry is constantly changing and there are new ‘fads’ coming onto the market all the time. Some really take off and find a niche for themselves. Others stick around for a while and then fade away again, but as a business committed to bringing brides-to-be the most current and up-to-date information, we need to stay abreast of everything that is happening. 82
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Wedding Shows, for example, have become big business and here at Cornish Brides, we are incredibly proud - and pleased - that our own Cornish Brides Shows are widely recognised as the biggest and best bridal events in the county. That didn’t happen overnight and it didn’t happen without a lot of hard work and sleepless nights. We held our first show back in 2006 and later this year, we will be hosting our 60th bridal show at Kingsley Village. We’ve made mistakes along the way, but we’ve learned from them; we’ve listened to our exhibitors and we’ve listened to you - the brides - and now we can say with absolute certainty and conviction that Cornish Brides Shows are truly amazing. Nowhere else in Cornwall will you find a bridal event that is so well organised, promoted and attended. An event that brings together more than 60 awesome bridal businesses in one place on one day giving brides-to-be the best choices, the best value and the best ideas. And then there is the magazine itself, yes the one you are reading right now. It has grown from a small handbag sized, 32 page publication into a glossy, A4, 132 page magazine that stands proudly against any other bridal magazine on the market today. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that Cornish Brides has an unblemished reputation for quality, originality and creativity. We are known throughout the bridal world - and I do mean world - for being a superior bridal magazine.
International designers love to have their collections featured in Cornish Brides and it never fails to amaze us when a designer or bridal business on the other side of the world gets in touch to say they would like to be featured in Cornish Brides. I cannot adequately describe the feeling I get every time that happens. Of course, social media has played a massive part in growing our reputation beyond Cornwall and the UK and you only have to look at the Cornish Brides Facebook Page with its 5,450 ‘likes’ (I did check that number before I wrote it, but it may well have gone up by the time you are reading this) to see that when we post anything on our Facebook Page, it is seen and read by a massive worldwide audience. But predominantly, Cornish Brides is about just that - brides who are from or getting married right here in Cornwall. It’s just that we recognise with social media and today’s technology, the world is a far smaller place and as we’ve already established, brides today are more knowing and demanding. For that reason, we will always scour the globe to bring you ideas and inspiration and whether you go out into the world to get what you want or whether you take the seed of an idea that we have sown and then adapt it to fit with your Cornish dream, that is your choice and we will never limit your choices or restrict your imagination. And then there are the Cornish Brides Awards, which we launched in 2012. Our primary objective was to give couples a forum where they could openly and honestly reward and recognise those businesses who had helped to make their wedding memorable - for all the right reasons. As the longest established bridal magazine in the county, we felt that Cornish Brides was in the absolute best position to administer and host an industry awards. But it wasn’t an easy decision because we were aware that many businesses would not necessarily want to take part in an awards process and we identified a number of pitfalls and potential problems that we could encounter. However, when we weighed everything up, we felt it was definitely the right thing to do and now, entering our fourth year, we are so happy that we did go ahead with these awards. Not only have they been embraced by the industry, they have also received huge recognition from the most important people of all ... you - the brides and grooms and we can’t thank you enough. The awards process runs from May until October during which time businesses can enter themselves or be nominated by a happy customer. We then administer the voting process and all the other criteria that has been put in place to ensure that the awards are as fair and unbiased as they possibly can be. Mid-way through the process, we temporarily suspend voting while we tally up the votes and announce which businesses have made it to the final stages. Voting re-opens and continues until the end of October when all the votes and scores from our judges are amassed and the winners are announced at a glittering ceremony in November each year.
asked to cough up an admission fee to enter a Cornish Brides Show. Our commitment to brides is unparalleled and complete; mainly because we don’t derive any revenue from you personally. We don’t have to try and ‘woo’ you with promises that are easily broken, we don’t need to soft-soap you with jargon in order to get money out of you. We are just here for you, doing our best for you and we trust you to recognise that. It really is that simple. Being the Editor-in-Chief of Cornish Brides is a fabulous job and I wouldn’t swap it for the world. Every day is completely different and I really have no idea when I arrive at the office each morning what the day will bring. What I do know is that it will be interesting, exciting and fun and that is fine by me. Over the years, we have been privileged to meet some lovely people and I think it’s fair to say that most people who work in the bridal industry are really nice. It is such a happy industry, so there is very little point being involved in it if you don’t like people and don’t love weddings. We really enjoy finding out about the businesses who work within the industry and we really like featuring them in the magazine or having them join us at Cornish Brides Shows and you can be assured that we will continue to work closely with all these businesses and share everything we can with you. We also love meeting you brides and hearing about your wedding plans; it makes everything we do worthwhile. So, our thoughts are now firmly fixed on the next 12 months and we just can’t wait to find out what new and exciting things will be happening in the world of weddings. We do know it will be another busy year. We’ve already held our first Cornish Brides Show of the year and we have 4 more to come, including that milestone 60th show, which is going to be very special. In May, we will be at the hugely prestigious White Gallery London - probably the most important bridal show in the world and as Media Partners, we will be bringing you the very latest news of the brand new designer collections straight off the catwalks. There are this year’s Cornish Brides Awards to launch and, of course, 4 fabulous issues of Cornish Brides Magazine to bring you. We’ve come an awfully long way since the first issue of Cornish Brides hit the streets in 2000 and we are so looking forward to our 15 year anniversary. It’s going to be another hectic year, it’s going to be a lot of hard work, but it’s going to be so much fun and we would love for you to come along and enjoy the ride with us. If you’re going to be heavily involved in wedding planning in 2015 or 2016, then make sure that Cornish Brides is right there with you very step of the way with ideas and inspiration from around the world. It’s your wedding and here at Cornish Brides, we understand and recognise that it really is ‘all about the bride’.
Organising the Awards Ceremony is akin to organising a wedding. Invites are sent out, the venue is booked, the menus are chosen, the entertainment is booked, as are the floral arrangements and the staging of the event. The day itself is hugely nerve-wracking as the whole thing finally comes together and I then have the honour and privilege of standing in front of our assembled guests to present the ceremony. It’s a little daunting to start off with, but I soon get into my stride and the excitement of the evening and seeing the surprise and pleasure on peoples’ faces as they step up to receive their award is wonderful. The excitement kicks in and before I know it, the final award has been presented and the event is coming to a close. As I often say to brides, the day goes so quickly, just enjoy it. Throughout our 15 year history, however, there has been one constant and that is the simple fact that everything we produce for you - the soon-to-be-bride - is absolutely free of charge. You will never be asked to pay a penny for Cornish Brides magazine and you will never be
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8 Polkyth Road St Austell 01726 61111
Our professional team of experienced and qualified florists are here to create the most beautiful flowers for your wedding day. Call in for a friendly chat.
www.andysflowers.com info@andyflowers.com
Sugar Coating
St Columb Photos Colin Seager and Kevin Hicks
Winners of the Cornish Brides Wedding Reception Services of the Year Award
Chocolate Fountains Popcorn Candy Floss Profiterole Mountains Sweetie Tables Tel: 01209 714829 / 0779 966 0024 sugar.coating@hotmail.co.uk www.sugar-coating.co.uk
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0778 656 4428 stcolumbphotos.com
Tues-Sat: 10am-4pm Sun-Mon: Closed Appointments can be made, please call Tina on
Cars with Style Chauffeur driven wedding car hire
Rocklyns 10 Kings Avenue St. Austell Cornwall
01726 400317 • 01726 829157 • 07799 666209 les.farrow@sky.com www.wedding carsincornwall.co.uk Cornish Brides
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The Winners CHRISTIAN MICHAEL PHOTOGRAPHY : WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS TREGENNA CASTLE : WEDDING VENUE SIMONE KNYITA BRIDAL HAIR : BRIDAL BEAUTY STYLIST SUGAR COATING : WEDDING RECEPTION SERVICES PAPILLON ROUGE : WEDDING DESIGNER THE WEDDING COMPANY, BODMIN : BRIDAL BOUTIQUE OCCASIONS COVERED : WEDDING VENUE STYLIST MRS M’S CAKES : WEDDING CAKE DESIGNER FLOWERS FROM BRUALLEN : WEDDING FLORIST I DO FILM WEDDINGS : WEDDING SERVICES GIG9569 MOBILE DJ : WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT ENGLISH ROSE STATIONERY : BRIDAL EXCELLENCE AWARD BUDEIFUL BRIDES : RISING STAR AWARD FLOWERS FROM BRUALLEN : BRIDAL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
The Runners-Up CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY TICK TOCK PHOTOS
DAN LILLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
PENVENTON PARK HOTEL STUDIO 13 ENYS BRIDAL
ABSOLUTE CANVAS
ROSEWARNE MANOR
LAVENDER ROSE BRIDALWEAR
TINA’S FLOWERS
CARLYON BAY HOTEL
SCORRIER HOUSE
BENNY’S ORGANIC ICE CREAM
STEPHANIE STEVENS JEWELLERY
DAVE’S ALL OCCASION CAKES
MOMENTOS PHOTOGRAPHY
VICTORIA WALKER PHOTOGRAPHY
COVERED IN STYLE
EDIBLE ELEGANCE
WHEAL SARA FLOWERS
NORTH COAST HOLIDAY COTTAGES
DEMODA BEAUTY SALON
CORNISH ICE TRIKE
BLISS BRIDAL GOWNS
MAUREEN WEBBER’S CAKE EMPORIUM AMELIA’S CLASSIC CARS
PENMORVAH MANOR
NUMBER 8 HAIRDRESSING
DOWNRIGHT DELICIOUS
BRIDES-TO-BE OF FALMOUTH
DIVINE WEDDING & PARTY PLANNING
4TISSIMO STRING QUARTET
THE RIGHT MOMENTS PHOTOGRAPHY
LUSTY GLAZE BEACH
NOMAD CATERING & BARS
BUDEIFUL BRIDES
CASSIE’S CRAFTY CAKES
JANE LOUISE FASHIONS CORNISH CUPCAKES
TINA’S CAKES FOR ALL OCCASIONS
ENGLISH ROSE STATIONERY CELLO CORNWALL
IT’S A WRAP
QUITE BRAZEN DISCO
KELLY ANN’S FLOWERS
GILLAN COVE FAVOURS PROPER JOB DISCO
Our warmest congratulations to all our winners and runners-up and our best wishes and thanks to every bridal business who took part in this year’s awards.
A BIG thank you also to each and every person who took the time and trouble to vote. Additional thanks to : Hotel Victoria, Newquay • Jamie Hedges and his team at JH-AV • Carolyn Oakley of Images Cornwall Jules Hayden of Art of Flowers • Straw Dogs Party Band
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Bodmin Jail For a wedding with a unique twist!
La Scala Function Suite the stunningly restored former prison chapel Complete privacy is ensured in this beautiful setting; restored for special occasions, complete with its own bar, brasserie-style kitchen and all modern facilities. This bespoke venue can accommodate 140 for a traditionally themed sit-down wedding and reception and up to 250 for more informal gatherings. Set wedding packages with tailored features are available depending on budgets and tastes - please come in and discuss your requirements with our wedding co-ordinator. With our Civil Ceremony Licence, why not choose from one of our seven onsite locations to make those special commitments? We look forward to planning your special day with us!
Tel: 01208 76292 www.bodminjail.org
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If you are looking for a relaxed but stylish coastal wedding in Cornwall, then look no further.
Chute Lane Gorran Haven St Austell Cornwall PL26 6NU
www.thellawnroc.co.uk 01726 843 461
The Mill House is set in a beautiful secluded valley half a mile from the stunning surfing beach at Trebarwith Strand. It was once an 18th century Corn Mill and the restaurant, with a capacity to seat 120, is set alongside the millstream.
The Mill is fully licensed for wedding ceremonies, including outside on the front terrace and receptions are designed to suit individual requirements. The hotel has 9 stylishly furnished rooms and live music or entertainment (even a duck race in the millstream) can be organised. For further details, please contact the owners Mark & Kep Forbes on 07767 341234 or e: mark.forbes@tesco.net www.themillhouseinn.co.uk The Mill House Inn • Trebarwith Strand • Tintagel • Cornwall PL34 0HD
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Bold, traditional & individual T: 01209 860702
www.cornish-tartans.co.uk email: cornovi@btinternet.com 94
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Simon Burt Photography
Fabulous Cornish kilts by Cornovi
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A complete and personalised service for all floral occasions
Call Karen
01726 850399 www.floralcreationsstaustell.co.uk
SimplySequenceDancing
Kernow Fireworks
Lighting up the West Country skies
Bespoke displays from £500 to give your wedding a real ‘wow’ factor and create stunning memories.
Ensure your first dance memorable for all the right reasons with professional ballroom lessons for your wedding.
01726 862685 / 07854 081848 www.simplysequencedancing.co.uk
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Cornish Brides
We can co-ordinate colours and music to suit your theme and arrange for you to safely start the display. For a friendly chat, call Mike or Graham on 0793 373 6680 or 0778 425 7469 www.fireworks-r.us
JaneLouise Beautiful Occasion and Evening Wear
Mother of the Bride Outfits We stock a large range of stunning designer outfits for Mother of the Bride and Mother of the Groom
We also have a massive selection of accessories, including shoes, bags and jewellery. Also, Prom and Evening Wear Sizes 8-26
5 Pike Street Liskeard PL14 3JE 01579 348304 www.gowns2raveabout-liskeard.co.uk
Manor Fashions The outfit experts situated near Helston
MOTHER OF THE BRIDE and MOTHER OF THE GROOM Outfits, Hats, Fascinators, Shoes and Bags
Creating beautiful jewellery for beautiful brides Call Ann for your appointment
www.stephaniestevensjewellery.co.uk
01326 561455
07817 239 895
www.manorfashions.co.uk Cornish Brides
113
Tea at the Vicarage Photography: Orchard Photography; Makeup: Sally Orchard; Makeup Assistant: Harry Lean Hair Stylist: Helen Simons, Elements Hair Salon; Bridalwear: Amanda K Bridal Boutique Florist: Essential Blooms; Shoes: Dragonfly Heels; Cup Cakes: The Big Fat Cake Company Tiered Cake: The Cake Hole; Jewellery: Glitzy Secrets; Doves: Wings Dove Release Venue: The Old Vicarage at Treleigh; Model: Hayley Larson
Some
brides-to-be
get
so
engrossed in their wedding, they just don’t know how to cope when the ‘big day’ is over.
Cornish Brides best
friend Carley Wetting, gives some light-hearted advice on how to live ...
HAPPILY EVER AFTER I’m told that some brides devote two or three years of their life to planning their wedding, which seems a little on the excessive side to me when you think of all the other things you could be doing, but each to their own, I guess. For some soon-to-be brides, the moment that engagement ring slips down their finger to the minute they begin the walk up the aisle, they eat, drink and sleep weddings. Every waking moment is consumed with all things bridal; dresses, cakes, flowers, photography - there is just no let up to it at all. Now to my way of thinking, that’s a pretty hefty chunk out of your life and for many brides-to-be, it’s not simply a case of organising a wedding around and inbetween all the other aspects of their life, the wedding actually becomes their life, sometimes to the detriment of everything else. Being a bride-tobe, it seems, can become a full-time occupation and a lot of women appear to revel in the role to the point that it becomes their raison d’etre, the sole purpose of their very existence, which is worrying and a little scary! The thing about this that most concerns me is what do these women do with their time when they are no longer a bride-to-be, but a bridewho-has-been, a fully fledged wife, a ... dare I say ... married woman? Does the term ‘newly wed’ hold the same level of excitement and anticipation as ‘bride-to-be? Does having a husband mean as much as having a fiancé? Does planning a future life with your new husband hold a candle to planning a wedding 116
Cornish Brides
which, when all said and done, is just one day in your life, albeit a very special day? For some, it appears that wedded bliss is somewhat short-lived, that the happily-everafter bit is something of an anti-climax. Of course, it stands to reason that if you are going to allow the planning and preparation of your wedding to take over your life, then you are going to feel a strange and considerable sense of loss once the wedding day is over. It must be akin to a bereavement; you haven’t gained a husband so much as you have lost a wedding! Now I’m not disputing for a second that you should not relish and totally enjoy the excitement of organising your wedding, far from it. Of course, you want the best for your big day and this invariably takes a lot of time, energy and effort, but surely the secret is to save some of that energy and enthusiasm for after the wedding. Afterall, the wedding is simply the first day of the rest of your life, so you don’t want to feel that it is all over when in reality, it is just beginning. Organising your wedding shouldn’t become a hobby or a favourite past-time. It should be something you do (and enjoy) preferably with or, at the very least, in conjunction with the man you have chosen to spend the rest of your life with and once it’s done, you should have wonderful memories and (if the photographer has done his job properly) a beautiful photo album to cherish and look back on for years to come to remind you what an amazing day it was and
what a fabulous job you did of organising it all. For surely therein lies the crux of the matter, it is just one day; an itsy-bitsy, teenyweeny moment in the grand scheme of things. A day that will come - and go - in the blink of an eye. So savour it, enjoy it and move on. You really can only be a bride-to-be for a relatively short period of time, then it’s back to earth with a bump as you resume your role as a mere mortal. And is that really such a terrible thing to contemplate? You will have a wonderful man (well, you chose him) to come home to each night and just think of all the exciting times that lie ahead for you both, the adventures that are out there waiting for you. I was recently told a story about a young woman who cried her way through the last dance of her wedding. When her new husband felt her tears soaking through his shirt, he assumed that the excitement and emotion of the day and, perhaps her overwhelming love for him, had momentarily got to her and he whispered as much to her in an attempt to reassure her (he also knew that she had polished off a bottle of Champagne and at least eight Bacardi Breezers during the course of the evening, but he tactfully refrained from mentioning that). Imagine his surprise - and horror - when the tear-stained face of his bride looked up at him and in a moment of intense sobriety, said that wasn’t why she was crying. It was, she said, the feeling of loss as it had just dawned on her that she would have ‘nothing to do’ the next day.
This wedding is about the two of you. It is about the fact that you have chosen to spend the rest of your lives together and this is just the start of it. Primarily, a marriage should be a private and personal ceremony of love and commitment and whilst most of us would expect to be invited to the wedding of a friend or close family member (yes, I do enjoy a wedding as much as the next person, just so long as it isn’t mine) we should not lose sight of the fact that in essence, a wedding is all about the bride and groom. So does the fairytale end when the couple ride off into the sunset together or is the fun really just beginning? It all comes down to how you view things, I suppose, but surely the most reasonable conclusion is that the wedding day itself is just the mixing of the cake and your life together thereafter is the icing on the cake - if you’ll pardon the metaphor. Her wedding was over, which meant she had no appointments in her diary for dress fittings, cake tastings, hair and make-up trials and flower discussions. She was bereft. I don’t know exactly how the story ended, but I like to think that the young lady in question woke up the next morning - possibly nursing the mother of all hangovers - and realised that she was actually on the threshold of a new and equally exciting chapter in her life - at least I hope so! Part of the problem is that weddings have become so totally blown out of all reasonable propotion that a lot of women no longer dream about the man they’ll marry, but rather about how many bridesmaids they will have, where the photos will be taken and how expensive their dress will be. The comedian, Billy Connolly, was once asked why he thought women wanted to get married more than men. His reply was that women don’t want to get married so much as they want a wedding. And he was absolutely right, a wedding is exactly what many young women aspire to, regardless of the implications that go with it.
And this brings us back to the question of how much time and effort you really need to put into this one day? There can be little doubt that organising a wedding is stressful, so apart from the absolute necessities of the day, why do you want to raise your blood pressure to the point of boiling, worrying about whether the petals you are having strewn up the aisle are an exact colour match for the ribbon on your bridesmaids’ dresses or whether the owl that has been especially trained to fly down from the pulpit carrying your rings in a velvet pouch, will actually make it safely onto the arm of its trainer standing at the altar or perform an emergency landing straight onto the top of your soon-to-be mother-in-law’s new hat! If the means justify the end then all well and good, but do they? With the stress levels already stratospheric, many brides say they are so worried about everything going well on the day, they don’t have the time or energy to enjoy themsevles and the day passes in a blur. So, keep it simple, I say. Do the big wedding, by all means, but don’t get so carried away with it all that you forget the bigger picture.
Becoming a ‘Mrs’ is something that many women really look forward to. It’s a confirmation of their status, a way of telling the whole world that they are married. So, for goodness sake, relish the fact once you are married. Marvel at your own ability to organise such a fabulous wedding, but keep that excitement level revved up for once you’ve exchanged your vows and had that last dance. Toss that wedding file on the fire because you don’t need to do any of that stuff again and be thankful for that. You’re a ‘Mrs’ now, a ‘proper grown-up, hey look at me, I’m married and I’ve got the ring to prove it’ kind of person. Be proud that you made it through the whole wedding process untainted and in one piece. Marvel at the fact that you looked absolutely stunning and beautiful on the day, be glad that your guests had such a fantastic time and be relieved that it all went so perfectly. Because YES, now the fun really does begin and if you play your cards right, you really will live happily ever after.
Now some people argue that this trend has been fuelled by the wedding industry itself feeding on every fairytale fantasy a woman has by selling a monumental range of wedding related products and services gift-wrapped with a bow and a sprinkling of tear-jerking sentimentality. It is probably easier to list what you can’t have at a wedding these days, than what you can have. But the question you have to ask yourself is what do you actually need? Will it really enhance your wedding and make it any more ‘special’ if you have doves released as you exchange your vows, if the church is bedecked with flowers or if you have spent a small fortune on bespoke wedding favours rather than sitting at home one night wrapping sugared almonds in little squares of lace and tying them with a piece of pretty ribbon? Cornish Brides
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What a Pi c ture ... Photo Booths in Cornwall Make your wedding even more memorable with our Photo Booth. Your guests will love it and will have a fun souvenir of your special day to enjoy for years to come!
hello@flashbangwallopcornwall.co.uk Tel: 07775 921758 / 01209 710824
www.flashbangwallopcornwall.co.uk 118
Cornish Brides
You only get one chance to create a good first impression Multi-award winning English Rose Stationery specialise in creating hand-made, quality wedding stationery with a simple, yet distinctive elegance.
Take a look at our website to see the stunning ranges available or call Sarah on 01208 813033
www.englishrosestationery.com
ARTIST
Illustrator for Cornish Brides Magazine
Unique, hand-drawn designs for personalising your wedding stationery or creating the perfect gift. Wedding Venues ALL MEDIUMS
•
Portraits
ALL PRICES
•
Cartoons
ALL YOURS!
Lisa Grenfell www.facebook.com/lisa.grenfell
Cornish Brides
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So, you know you’re definitely getting married, but have you decided where you want to say ‘I Do’ yet? If you have your heart set on a civil venue as opposed to a church or register office then Cornwall has a number of amazing licensed venues for your civil wedding. There is an ever-growing list of hotels, castles, manor houses and stately homes which are now licensed to perform civil ceremonies. Many have stunning views across lush countryside or dramatic seascape vistas providing the perfect romantic backdrop for your big day and all are more than capable of helping you arrange the wedding of your dreams.
civil venue listings Carnglaze Caverns
A completely unique venue offering a choice of four licensed locations including the Rum Store which is licensed for up to 400 guests and has one of the longest aisles in Cornwall (almost 80m). For smaller weddings, our Underground Lake, Enchanted Dell and Vine Conservatory are ideal. Weddings haven’t gone out of style, they’ve just gone underground!
Falcon Hotel
One of Cornwall’s top, award-winning wedding venues. The Falcon Hotel offers you a most unique wedding experience in the most beautiful surroundings. Our reputation is your guarantee.
Carlyon Bay Hotel
Perched high on the cliffs overlooking picturesque St Austell Bay, the Carlyon Bay Hotel is a truly idyllic place to celebrate your special day. And with over 25 years experience, we are experts at making your dreams come true.
Carlyon Bay, St.Austell 01726 812304 www.brend-hotels.co.uk
Greenbank Hotel
Something Unique. Something Romantic. Something Boutique. Something Beautiful. Nestled into the harbourside overlooking Falmouth, the Greenbank combines centuries of tradition with contemporary styling for a timeless elegant feel. With sunlit waters and stunning vistas at every turn, it’s hard to imagine a more romantic setting for your special occasion. We have spaces to suit every need whether you’re having a civil ceremony, civil partnership or wedding reception.
St. Neot, Liskeard Tel: 01579 320251 www.carnglaze.com
Breakwater Road, Bude Tel: 01288 352005 www.falconhotel.com
Harbourside, Falmouth Tel: 01326 312440 www.greenbank-hotel.co.uk
Headland Hotel
Hotel Victoria
National Maritime Museum
Two people in love make a marriage, but a stunning location makes for a special wedding. Could there be a more romantic setting for your vows than a luxury hotel overlooking wild, rugged cliff tops hugging a sandy cove? Perched in view of the Atlantic rollers lashing Cornwall’s north coast, The Headland boasts a breathtaking location for a fairytale wedding.
By choosing the Hotel Victoria - one of Newquay's best wedding venues - you are assured of a friendly but professional service and we will promise to do everything in our power to make your special day a memorable one.
If you’re holding out for that perfect setting for your wedding, then look no further. Our unique and imaginative venue may be exactly what you’re looking for ... and then some!
Tel: 01637 872211 www.headlandhotel.co.uk
Call now for a viewing and a friendly, informal meeting with our Wedding Planner.
East Street, Newquay Tel: 08451 664 280 www.hotel-victoria.co.uk
Whatever your requirements, we’re happy to discuss ideas with you and we’ll pull out all the stops to achieve the perfect day!
Dayna Pope, Conference Manager Telephone: 01326 214557 www.nmmc.co.uk
Penmorvah Manor
Penventon Park Hotel
Porth Veor Manor
With over 25 years experience in hosting
A beautiful Georgian House set in
and mature gardens with views across the
to 150 guests.
valley leading to the sea, creates the
Spa and pre-Wedding Beauty.
perfect backdrop for your special day.
Fantastic reputation for excellent food.
For a truly romantic venue that can be exclusively yours, look no further than Porth Veor Manor, the Country House on the Coast. For a wedding that is as truly individual as you are, book an appointment with our dedicated wedding team.
Budock Water, Falmouth 01326 250277 www.penmorvah.co.uk
West End, Redruth Tel: 01209 203000 www.penventon.com
Porth Way, Newquay Tel: 01637 873274 www.porthveormanor.com
Rosewarne Manor
Ta Mill
The Edgcumbe
A family-run venue set in delightful countryside location offering a very personal service and truly superb food. Our beautiful function facilities and landscaped gardens will provide the perfect location for your special day. Our friendly staff will tailor every aspect to your requirements.
A unique Cornish Wedding Venue in a secluded rural hideaway location with stunning views and quality service. Exclusive hire available and with our beautiful accommodation, you and your guests can celebrate and stay in the same idyllic venue.
The Edgcumbe is the only beachside accommodation and venue that offers sweeping views of Summerleaze beach perfect for an elegant and intimate wedding.
weddings, the Victorian Penmorvah Manor
woodlands in West Cornwall.
House, set in 6 acres of private woodland
Licensed for Civil Ceremonies for up
We offer you the choice of full ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening celebrations or a completely bespoke package to suit you.
Rosewarne Manor Connor Downs, Hayle Tel: 01209 610414 www.rosewarnemanor.co.uk
St. Clether, Launceston Tel: 01840 261797 www.tamill.co.uk
Summerleaze Crescent, Bude Tel: 01288 353846 www.edgcumbe-hotel.co.uk
The Old Vicarage
Tregenna Castle
Trenython Manor
For a truly enchanting wedding, the
Tregenna Castle Hotel is located in a
An elegant and historic 19th century
Old Vicarage is hard to beat. This beautiful
magnificent 72 acre estate with stunning
Manor House set in the heart of natural
secluded house set within extensive
views over St Ives.
woodlands and boasting breathtaking views
landscaped gardens is available
We are licensed for weddings and civil
over St Austell Bay.
for exclusive use and is perfect for intimate
partnerships with a choice of ceremony
The perfect venue for an intimate ceremony
weddings or grander celebrations. We offer
rooms, including our beautiful outdoor
or larger wedding for up to 70 guests.
bespoke packages to ensure your wedding is
Pavilion - a truly unique venue.
Trenython ... more than you realised.
Tregenna Castle, St. Ives Tel: 01736 795254 www.tregenna-castle.co.uk
Trenython Manor 01726 814797 www.trenython.co.uk
completely unique and special.
Treleigh, Redruth 01209 891615 www.theoldvicaragecornwallweddings.co.uk
Cornish
s w o sh
if you’re serious about getting married, there is no other place to go kingsley village • fraddon • cornwall
MAY 10
JULY 12
SEPTEMBER 6
www.cornishbrides.co.uk
NOVEMBER 1
e d i u G s ’ e d The Bri A quick and easy page reference guide to find your favourite suppliers
84
Andy’s Flowers
76
Art of Flowers
28
Bliss Bridal Gowns
92
Bodmin Jail
26
Bridal Studio
OBC Carlyon Bay Hotel 124
Carnglaze Caverns
85
Cars With Style
118
Celebration Pyrotechnics
94
Children’s Hospice South West
94
Cornovi Cornish Tartan
112
Cruz Photography
84
Divine Wedding Planning
119
Duchy Hospital
118
Emma Griffin Photography
119
English Rose Stationery
93
Falcon Hotel
118
Flash, Bank Wallop
112
Floral Creations
72
Flowers from Bruallen
85
GIG9569 Mobile DJ
IFC
Greenbank Hotel
118
Guest Factor
81
Headland Hotel
69
Hotel Victoria
85
I Do Film Weddings
72
Images Photography
92
Inscriptions
113
Jane Louise Fashions
94
JH-AV
112
Kernow Fireworks
26
Lavender Rose Bridalwear
119
Lisa Gee Designs
93
Llawnroc Hotel
26
Lowen Bridal
113
Manor Fashions
93
Mill House
92
Mount Edgcumbe House
60
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
53
Old Vicarage
2
Penmorvah Manor
73
Penventon Park Hotel
61
Porth Veor Manor
76
Ron Bushell Photography
77
Rosewarne Manor
93
Scorrier House
112
Simply Sequence Dancing
84
St. Columb Photos
59
St. Ives Harbour Hotel
113
Stephanie Stevens Jewellery
84
Sugar Coating
61
Ta Mill
60
The Edgcumbe
27
The Wedding Company
IBC
Tregenna Castle
51
Trenython Manor
119
Truffles Catering
85
Unique Designs by Tina
Cornish Brides 01872 270169 www.cornishbrides.co.uk
. . . y l l a n i
f d n a
We do hope you will join us for our next Cornish Brides Show at Kingsley Village on Sunday, May 10 or, if you can’t attend that show, make sure you’re at the next one on Sunday, July 12
As a bride you put so much energy into planning your wedding that sometimes you just need a little ‘you’ time. Well, the team at The Headland in Newquay have come up with a couple of suggestions for you and your girlfriends to spend some quality time together. The Headland is perfectly poised for an exquisite hen party, with a range of options from a Vintage Afternoon Tea to Pamper Days, so if you’re looking for something classy, elegant and refined this could be the perfect for you. Vintage Hen : a private lounge will be classically decorated with vintage crockery, silver and bunting with accompanying music. Relax as staff serve pots of loose leaf tea and freshly ground coffee, cake stands loaded with finger sandwiches, scrumptious home baked scones and a selection of fabulous cakes, delicious buns and divine fancies. From £25 per person. Pampered Hen : begin your indulgence with a 30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage, a mini facial or a file and polish on the hands or feet, then relax for a while in the stunning leisure area before moving in to the sleek VIP suite which offers a sense of utter luxury for small groups. Enjoy a private screening of your favourite ‘chick flick’ as you sip a glass of bubbly and indulge in popcorn and nibbles. From £59 per person. www.headlandhotel.co.uk
If you love colour, then you’re going to be blown away by these stunning images of a ‘fiesta’ themed wedding sent to us by Elaine at Cornish Brides Award winning florist, Flowers from Bruallen. As we always say, there are no rights or wrongs when it comes to your wedding, so just let your imagination run wild and do whatever makes you happy. This couple’s wedding marquee was a riot of colour with ribboned chairbacks and funky coloured lanterns, not to mention stunning floral arrangements that all added to the celebrations. www.bruallen.co.uk
And don’t fo rget, hear from yo we are always absolutely d u either before elig or after your hted to If you would wedding. like to share a sp us or tel us about somethin ecial photograph with g wo during your w edding prepara nderful that happened tions itself, we’d love you to get in or on the ‘big day’ touch. Just media@cornis email hbri your special des.co.uk and we’l happily us at moment with o ther Cornish share brides.