An Essex Wedding - Issue 100 September/October 2021 by County Wedding Magazines

100

issue

www.anessex.wedding

DREAM WEDDING VENUES

Happy birthday to us!

WIN!

A minimoon in Provence

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Top catering options

100 gorgeous gowns

Ready, steady, marry!

SEP/OCT 2021

£3.55

Wedding inspo galore

HONEYMOONS, BEAUTY, GROOMS, FREEBIES, FASHION AND MUCH MORE...

leez pRIoRy LEEZ PRIORY info@leez-priory.co.uk

CHELMSFORD 01245 362555

ESSEX leez-priory.co.uk

goSfielD HAll GOSFIELD HALL info@gosfield-hall.co.uk

GOSFIELD

01787 472914

ESSEX gosfield-hall.co.uk

Holmewood HAll HOLMEWOOD HALL DUI PR S OSPERE PR AECLARIS C O E P T I

info@holmewood-hall.co.uk

HOLME

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

01487 829 555

holmewood-hall.co.uk

Country HousE weddings Exclusively Weddings, Exclusively Yours

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021

CONTENTS

REGULARS 6 EDITOR’S LETTER

Danielle Harvey looks back at 100 issues of An Essex Wedding

9 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the county

On the cover

This issue’s front cover was captured by Dean Robson Photography (www.deanrobsonphotography.co.uk) and its cover star is An Essex Wedding’s very own account manager Kirsty Brindley (nee O’Connor) whose big day is featured over on page 57.

13 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

99 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer stellar advice

110 COMPETITION Win a minimoon in Provence, France worth up to £1,500

VENUES

19 SHOWSTOPPERS

FEATURES 62 TWO FOR ONE

One gorgeous venue, two stunning styled shoots – inspiration overload

93 THE BIG BREAKFAST Big-day catering to tickle those taste buds

104 HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN Dream wedding day transport

Local Essex venues with the wow factor

29 GOING LOCAL Wed in and around Southend-on-Sea

71 FASHION & BEAUTY

REAL WEDDINGS

GROOMS

Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals her latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches

Natalie and John’s wedding had a daring red and white colour scheme for their big-day theme

108 BEST OF BRITISH

68 FASHION FOCUS

71 THE BIG 100

35 SMALL BUT MIGHTY

To celebrate our 100th birthday here’s 100 dream wedding gowns to swoon over

42 IF MUSIC BE THE FOOD OF LOVE... PLAY ON

86 BEAUTY BUZZ

Music was the theme for Hannah and Jon’s dream day

Beauty editor Kelly Andrews reveals all the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be

51 ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE

88 BE BEAUTIFUL, BE YOU

A vintage ‘60s theme set the scene for Caroline and Gary’s nuptials

Emolyne Ramlov, founder of the eponymous make-up brand, talks inclusivity and bringing a colour boost to your bridal beauty

90 FASHION AND BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems

57 FROM ESSEX WITH LOVE An Essex Wedding’s very own Kirsty O’Connor tied the knot at Creaksea Place

112

107 GROOMS’ NEWS All the latest best buys and product launches

From Royal Ascot to The Crown, there’s a lot to be inspired by when keeping your big-day look classically British

HONEYMOONS

112 HONEYMOON NEWS

Idyllic destinations for when you can hop, skip and jump on to a plane again, along with some UK beauties for the ultimate staycation.

HERITAGE MADE MODERN

Photos courtesy of Big Fish Photography, Dominika Meichowska, Emma Gosling, Farlie Photography, Julia & You Photography, Kristian Lissimore Photography & Pure Image Photography.

Houchins is an intimate and romantic wedding venue with the choice of accommodation. Exclusively yours for the day, Houchins is set in beautiful grounds just outside Coggeshall, easily accessible to Essex, Hertfordshire and London. Call our award-winning team to arrange a viewing or chat through your plans on how we can make your perfect wedding day.

www.houchins.co.uk 01376 561448 Houchins Wedding Venue | Coggeshall | Colchester | CO6 1RT

Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley ADVERTISING Sales & Events Director Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarahe@county.wedding Account Manager Kirsty O’Connor | 01376 538 490 kirsty.oconnor@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James

Happy birthday and happy planning

@CountyWeddingMagazines

Danielle x

Danielle Harvey, managing editor, issue 1 to 100 and a 100 more!

100

issue

anessex.wedding

DREAM WEDDING VENUES

Happy birthday to us!

WIN!

A minimoon in Provence

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Top catering options

100 gorgeous gowns

£3.55

Ready, steady, marry!

SEP/OCT 2021

DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding Graphic Designers | Sarah Hill Stephanie Hodder | Vicky O’Connor Production Assistant | Lorna Butcher Digital Marketing Coordinator Katie Laley

nbelievably, I have been at An Essex Wedding HQ for all 100 issues – gasps – so it seems only fitting that I write this issue’s letter from the editor! We have been the leaders in bringing local wedding content to all of our lovely readers past and present for 18 years, becoming a much needed go-to wedding bible for couples tying the knot in our gorgeous county of Essex. I can’t deny, I have seen it all, and Essex couples really have pushed the boundaries in wedding themes and styling over the last 18 years. As you can see looking at all of our previous cover shots, the magazine has evolved and will continue to do so ensuring we remain by the side of nearlyweds across the county for many more years to come! I had my own Essex wedding back in 2018 at The Old Parish Rooms, Rayleigh (pictured below); which is also featured in a real wedding this issue over on page 35. Our amazing new account manager, Kirsty O’Connor – who’s celebrating her first issue working on An Essex Wedding – also tied the knot in July 2021 at Essex’s Creeksea Place (pictured right); you can read all about her big day over on page 57. So we really do live and breathe weddings here at An Essex Wedding, they are in our blood and in our hearts and now, more than ever ‒ especially after the last 18 months ‒ An Essex Wedding is here, bigger and better than ever to shout about weddings and suppliers across our much-loved county of Essex! Our 100th birthday milestone, is credit to our wonderful wedding suppliers that have supported us, our fabulous couples that have graced our pages and our amazing readers that continue to follow An Essex Wedding – thank you!

Wedding inspo galore

HONEYMOONS, BEAUTY, GROOMS, FREEBIES, FASHION AND MUCH MORE...

http://deanrobsonphotography.co.uk

EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor, Grooms Editor and Travel Editor danielleh@county.weding Kelly Andrews | Beauty Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor

Happy birthday to us – we’re 100! U

100

@CountyWeddings @cwm_wedding

An Essex Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. An Essex Wedding is published six times a year. Subscription rates are £18.20 per annum (incl. p+p). Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing and sent to An Essex Wedding, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. ISSN 1745-6541

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The region’s finest venues

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Five couples share their big days with us…

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Six essential shots for the album

The hottest fashion trends for 2010

Chelmsford

and braintree Our pick of venues around the region

StopSS! Stre inner

Groom’s eye view

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Our new column for the men

Real Weddings

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Issue 20 May/June 2008

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Elegant attire

Vintage ladylike fashion

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Transport inspiration to wow your guests

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Issue 60 January/February 2015

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Go green on your big day

Beauty, grooms’ fashion, expert advice, freeBies and more

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Local love stories

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Life’s a beach

Gorgeous venues on our coastline

County Wedding Magazines

EXCLUSIVE

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Ring-ading-ding

Lovely

Our guide to your big-day bling

Issue 70 September/October 2016

Twisting the night away Our guide to entertaining your guests

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Mum’s the word

Our pick of boutiques for the mother-of-the-bride and -groom HONEYMOONS, BEAUTY, GROOMS, EXPERT ADVICE, FREEBIES AND MORE 12/12/2014 16:51

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Hip hip hooray! We celebrate our 90th issue!

HONEYMOONS, BEAUTY, EXPERT ADVICE, GROOMS, FREEBIES AND MORE

COVER _AEW80.indd 1

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A honeymoon in Italy

Historic venues with the wow factor

OUR 70TH ISSUE FULL OF INSPIRATION, HONEYMOONS, BEAUTY, FREEBIES AND MORE

Real weddings

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The finest fashion for her supporting role

A honeymoon in Thailand, worth more than £4,500

Tie the knot in a rustic retreat

Wed in one of Essex’s beautiful barns

SIGNIFICANT MOTHER

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LOCAL WEDDINGS

LEONA LEWIS

Girls’ night out

Hen party hotspots for 2015

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Christine’s of Hockley Christines for that personal touch for your wedding day. We are a bespoke wedding florist with a tranquil wedding consultation room, where together we can create you special day. Just give us a call or find us on Facebook! Christine’s of Hockley

01702 203215 www.christinesofhockley.com

Find us on

Set in three acres of beautifully manicured gardens, The Lawn is a truly enchanting Manor House with a stunning Orangery, galleried Grand Hall and delightful wedding gazebo. Perfect for any size wedding, for any season. To find out why we remain one of the most sought after and best reviewed venues in Essex, contact us to arrange a viewing or visit www.thelawn.co.uk and let us put together a tailored online quotation based on your precise requirements. Hall Road, Rochford, Essex SS4 1PL 01702 203669

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YOUR ESSENTIALS

SOMETHING NEW BOUNCING AHEAD Launched in June, The Blowout Bar is Chelmsford’s first ever blow-dry bar located on Wharf Road within walking distance of Chelmsford City Centre. The boutique salon offers a range of beauty treatments including blow-drys, lash extensions, brow maintenance and makeovers from a team of 10 talented professionals. Not only will clients be able to get a variety of beauty treatments, there’s also the opportunity to purchase cocktails supplied by award-winning Essex-based Tapp’d Cocktails, a company that offers handcrafted ready-to-drink gluten free and vegan cocktails. Open till late, the salon is a perfect place for those looking for luxurious pampering before venturing into the city to enjoy a day of shopping, dining and more! Check out www.theblowoutbar.uk

New family run business Retro Bride & Vrooms, based in Aveley, is the brainchild of owners Michelle and Marc who, after getting made redundant during the pandemic, decided it was time to embark on a new venture. “We have always loved VW Campervans,” shares Michelle. “After hiring one for our wedding in 2013 we decided to adopt Franky our beautiful 1964 VW Splitscreen Campervan and now run a chauffeur driven wedding hire company covering Essex, Kent and London.” Check out https://retrobrideandvrooms.co.uk

d e w y l r a Ne

NEWS

All the latest from around the county

SHOWBUSINESS – THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE

We live and breathe weddings at County Wedding Magazines & Events, so we can’t wait for our Signature Wedding Show at the Brentwood Centre on Sunday 24th October, 2021! After 18 months of lockdowns, post-poned weddings, rescheduled events and cancelled plans, it’s great to have a date we can finally add to our diaries. It is also one of our key wedding shows of the autumn wedding show season for all those couples that are desperate for face-toface wedding planning... If you’ve never been to an event like this before, we’ve put together some top tips to help you get the most from it: ♥ Narrow down. Before the show, have a chat with your partner to decide a few key factors about your wedding. This will help when talking to suppliers. ♥ Comfort. You’ll be on your feet all day; wear comfy flats and pop some blister plasters in your bag. ♥ Set up a wedding email address. This way you can keep everything in one place, and it makes it much easier to refer back to suppliers’ emails. ♥ The entourage. Decide who you’ll take with you – will it be your partner, or would you prefer to have a day with the girls or your mum? (Following Covid guideline at that time.) ♥ Homework. Make a checklist of the type of suppliers you’re looking for on the day. ♥ Get social. Follow the event organiser and some of the exhibitors on social media. This way you’ll be first to know of any show offers. ♥ Book. If you love something, book it – but don’t ever feel pressurised into doing so if you’re not 100 per cent sure. ♥ Get organised. Take a diary with you so you can make appointments, and make sure you keep any literature you receive in a folder.

Entry to the show will be free and all couples attending on the day will be given a goody bag, including a showguide. At all our Signature Events, we have a further competition to win a £250 SpaBreak voucher, courtesy of SpaBreaks.com – all you need to do is pre-register and attend on the day! Head to www.countyweddingevents.com | www.county.wedding 9

www.instagram.com/daphotography_snapper

LET’S GO OUTSIDE With the latest surge in open-air ceremonies and outdoor wedding receptions, Tuffon Hall offers an unrivalled backdrop for your dream day. The bespoke cedar-wood wedding gazebo stands proud at the top of the most picturesque of vineyards where award-winning wines are produced to be enjoyed by you and your guests. Opt for an Italian-themed al fresco wedding breakfast with views across the stunning North-Essex countryside and soak up the pictureperfect setting, then head inside the magnificent 400-year-old Cellar Door barn for your evening celebrations before retiring to the farmhouse where your beautiful honeymoon suite and a further five guest bedrooms await. What’s more, the venue us now taking 2023 wedding enquiries so drop the team an email on weddings@tuffonhall.co.uk now! Check out https://tuffonhall.co.uk/wedding-visit-us

BESPOKE CEREMONIES

www.jeffturnbull.co.uk

COLCHESTER TOWN HALL WEDDING FAIR

Carol Cranfield is a newly qualified wedding celebrant, who can lead your bespoke ceremony fulfilling your requirements ensuring a truly personalised service. Carol adds, “I believe love is all around and I’m passionate about telling your precious stories. The thought of a couple in love and wanting to tell all their friends and family, puts a spring in my step and further love in my heart, and definitely wants to make me dance! “I’d love to work with you preparing for your special day. We can talk about whether you want sophistication or fun, or a relaxed or interactive ceremony, the world’s your oyster and you can let your imaginations flow.” Carol’s expansive career in the Health & Social Care sector has brought her into contact with people from all walks of life regularly being told her friendly disposition, thoughtful, reliable and compassionate qualities have helped people in their lives. Trained as a celebrant with the International College of Professional Celebrants, Carol is an experienced speaker and loves communicating with people meaning your guests will be immersed in a memorable ceremony. For more information about hiring Carol for your wedding or vow renewal visit www.carolcranfieldcelebrant.co.uk Psst! You can meet Carol at the County Wedding Events Braxted Park Wedding Show on 17th October 2021, and turn to page 13 to win £100 off of Carol’s services! Carol is also running an offer for all new bookings before 30th November to receive 10% off! 10

Colchester Weddings is inviting couples looking for their perfect wedding venue in Essex, to discover for themselves the beautiful spaces of Colchester Town Hall. The Wedding Fair takes place at the Town Hall on Sunday 26th September 2021 from 11am. Entry is free and includes a goody bag for all couples and a glass of bubbly on arrival to the first 50 guests. The Town Hall is a jewel in Colchester’s crown. From its prominent town centre location, the magnificent Baroque structure with its Victorian tower and statue of St Helena, Colchester’s patron saint, dominates the town. Bursting with old-fashioned glamour, the Town Hall’s many opulent interiors are fully licensed for ceremonies and receptions, offering style and grandeur for all occasions. Melissa Faux, wedding and corporate events manager at Colchester Weddings said, “We’re excited to be opening the doors to the Town Hall to give couples a personal tour of the beautiful interiors, meet our experienced and friendly team, and discover many of our local suppliers. “Whether you are planning an intimate gathering, or a lavish celebration, the Town Hall’s choice of breathtaking spaces will provide the perfect setting for your special day. From the grand Moot Hall, with its high arched ceiling and stained-glass windows, to the Mayor’s Parlour with its balcony offering a ‘Royal’ photo opportunity looking down over the town below, these elegant interiors are unrivalled in Essex.” To register for free tickets visit: https://colchester-events.co.uk/event/wedding-fair/

One of the largest wedding shows to be held in the South of England • Free entry • Win a luxury honeymoon • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Bridal fashion shows • Entertainment • Refreshments • Covid-19 secure

Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SUNDAY 24 OCTOBER | 11AM - 3:30PM Hosted at The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, Essex CM15 9NN Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration.cfm Follow us on

/CountyWeddingEvents

@CountyWedEvent

@countyweddingevents

T H E P E R F E C T I N T I M AT E W E D D I N G V E N U E F O R U P T O 9 0 S E AT E D G U E S T S W I T H E V E N I N G C A PA C I T Y U P T O 1 5 0 . Brand new Wedding garden - even more photo opportunities will now be available. Unlike most venues, at The Waltham Barn you won’t lose your guests to an oversized room.

O U R WA R M A N D B E AU T I F U L V E N U E O F F E R S : Picturesque wedding garden - Original barn features - Private flagstone courtyard - Access to the renowned Channels Hotel 0 1 2 4 5 3 6 2 2 1 0 | E V E N T S @ L I T T L E C H A N N E L S . C O. U K | L I T T L E C H A N N E L S WA LT H A M . C O. U K / M A R RY /

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B AY TR EES

Let’s weave the magic together ...beautiful fifinnishing touches for your dream Fairytale Wedd ddiing W W W. FA I RY TA L E - F I N I S H E S . CO. U K 07935 032078 | fairytalefinishes@hotmail.co.uk

I will listen to you carefully and make suggestions for you to consider. These could be things like telling your love story, poems, music, maybe someone in your family and friends could sing or play some music. There are mini wedding rituals that could be considered. I will make it as special as you want it to be; after all it is your day.

www.carolcranfieldcelebrant.co.uk carol@carolcranfieldcelebrant.co.uk | 07962251134

https://jeffturnbull.co.uk

YOUR ESSENTIALS

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LET’S CELEBRATE

Freebies & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

For An Essex Wedding’s 100th issue we’ve teamed up with Carol Cranfield, a celebrant from Braintree to offer readers the chance to receive £100 off of her celebrant services. From handfastings to sand ceremonies, woodland ceremonies to country houses, having a celebrantled ceremony means you have something that is truly personalised and bespoke to you as a couple. Carol adds, “I would start off by getting to know you very well, so that your personalities are reflected in your special day. I will listen to you carefully and make suggestions for you to consider, these could be things like telling your love story, poems, music, maybe someone from your family or friends could sing or play some music, there are mini wedding rituals that could be considered too. We make it as special as you want it to be; after all it’s your day. I’ll create a ceremony with you that will be unique based on your love of each other. Let your imaginations flow, so that everyone who walks away from your ceremony will remember it for many years to come with great fondness.” Visit www.carolcranfieldcelebrant.co.uk For your chance to receive £100 off of services from Carol Cranfield enter via our website. Terms and conditions apply.

WIN A BUNDLE OF YANKEE CANDLE® FRAGRANCES WORTH NEARLY £140! Scented candles have the power to change the atmosphere in any room, creating a warm, cosy and calming feel at the flick of a match. Yankee Candle®, the leader in home fragrance known and beloved by fans worldwide, is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a bundle of Original Jar Candles in a selection of favourite fragrances. Including the sophisticated Wedding Day, the sparkling All Is Bright and the enchanting Cherry Blossom in the Original Large Jars, alongside the romantic Fresh Cut Roses, the refreshing Midnight Jasmine and the charming Blush Bouquet in the Original Medium Jars, the bundle is a scented candle lover’s dream. Yankee Candle® has been sharing its passion for fragrance with the world since 1969. It is important that every fragrance launched is true-to-life and realistic to the experience that inspired it, whether that be a flower, food, fruit or place. Made by master chandlers, each candle developed is a complex system of custom blend wax, a unique wick and carefully crafted fragrance. Master perfumers develop Yankee Candle® fragrances for consistent and satisfying performance across all products. Every fragrance is rigorously screened, reviewed and tested by the highly experienced team of fragrance experts to achieve a strong scent and

quality experience and maintain high standards, commitment and craftmanship. All Yankee Candle® Original Jar Candles are made at in-house production facilities in the US and Europe, with quality ingredients from around the world. Check out www.yankeecandle.co.uk

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER VIA OUR WEBSITE. Closing date: 3rd December, 2021 unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions apply. 13

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to kickstarting our Autumn wedding show season. From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues, to our larger Signature Wedding Shows home to more than 100 exhibitors each, we can’t wait to welcome back our couples and help plan their wedding days. Here’s what to expect when attending one of our events... Whether you’re joyous that restrictions have passed, or are still a little hesitant, couples can rest assured our venues are continuing to maintain some of the government guidelines and measures to ensure everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy the day: • • • • • •

Attendees will need to pre-register to attend events There will be allocated time slots for visitors All venues will also have enhanced cleaning procedures, with hand washing and sanitising facilities still available Spaces between exhibition booths will be maintained to ease congestion Optional face masks Anyone with symptoms must refrain from visiting

Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof. On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés, and attending our exhibitions is free! For more information on our any of our exhibitions visit County Wedding Events’ website. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events.

Sarah

Sarah Ellis, Sales and Events Director County Wedding Events. Psst! Our pre-registered Signature Wedding Show visitors will have the chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of Spabreaks.com

ASCOT RACECOURSE, 19

A date for your diary...

SEPTEMBER, 2021

THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE, 24TH OCTOBER, 2021

WEMBLEY STADIUM, 20TH FEBRUARY, 2022

MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD, 20TH MARCH, 2022

Pre-register for all of our events at www.countyweddingevents.com

2021 WEDDING SHOWS ALL EVENTS 11AM - 3PM unless otherwise stated

At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area. All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day.

BERKS, BUCKS & OXON

ESSEX (12pm-4pm)

HOUCHINS WEDDING VENUE

RACKLEYS CHILTERN HILLS

Houchin’s Lane, Coggeshall, CO6 1RT

Marlow Road, HP14 3PP

SUN 3 OCT

BRAXTED PARK

EAST ANGLIA

Great Braxted, Witham, CM8 3EN

SUN 17 OCT

BRESSINGHAM HALL & HIGH BARN Norfolk, IP22 2AA

MARKSHALL ESTATE

SUN 7 NOV

Coggeshall, CO6 1TG

SUN 7 NOV

@CountyWedEvent

@countyweddingevents

SURREY GUILDFORD MANOR HOTEL & SPA

KENT WEST HEATH Ashgrove Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 1SR

SUN 24 OCT HYTHE IMPERIAL HOTEL & SPA Princes Parade, Hythe, CT21 6AE

SUN 31 OCT

LONDON

Newlands Corner, Guildford, GU4 8SE

SUN 7 NOV

SUSSEX CASTLE GORING Arundel Road, Worthing, BN13 3UN

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SUN 26 SEP

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High Street, Haywards Heath, RH17 6JZ

SUN 10 OCT

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Weddings & Events

Imagine holding your special day in a 200-year old barn, with its exposed beams, large open fireplace, many other original features, and beautiful fairy lights, which gives that extra special and romantic touch. At Maylands’ Golf Club, Romford, we understand every wedding day is different, therefore, we have a full time, experienced Wedding Co-ordinator to assist with your planning and help build the perfect package created just for you. We can help you select everything from your food to your photographer, flowers and much more. Whether you would like to keep things traditional or would prefer to host a more relaxed affair, we have packages and prices to suit your requirements. We are licensed to hold civil ceremonies, enabling us to host every aspect of your day from start to finish. Direct: 01708 332 897 | Email: events@maylandsgolf.com | www.maylandsgolf.com Maylands’ Golf Club, Colchester Road, Romford, Essex, RM3 0AZ

https://clarekentish.com

LOCAL VENUES

THE OLD HOUSE 01702 318 120 | www.rochford.gov.uk/oldhouseweddings One of the oldest buildings in England, The Old House is a romantic Grade II listed Medieval venue located in the heart of the historic town of Rochford. With period features and fairytale touches of a larger venue, the magical The Old Hall, dating from 1270, hosts 24 ceremony guests.

PARK INN PALACE 01702 455 100 | www.parkinn.co.uk/hotel-southend Built in 1889, Palace Hotel offers a fantastic views from its vantage point in this popular Essex seaside resort. Located on Pier Hill, opposite the famous Southend Pier, it boasts 137 bedrooms and seven function rooms complete with modern amenities. The banqueting suites denote elegance, warmth, style and tradition, which provide the ideal base for the wedding of your dreams. In fact, several of the ceremony rooms, plus the Lounge, Bar and Restaurant have impressive floor-to-ceiling windows with balcony access too, creating an impressive backdrop for those all-important wedding shots. The “I dos” can take place in Pier View or Laurel & Hardy. The former is suitable for more intimate vows, accommodating 50 loved ones and offering incredible views across the Southend coastline. The

With its stunning altar-inspired fireplace and beautiful hammerbeam ceiling, this is an enchanting setting to exchange vows. The Old House also boasts cosy reception rooms to toast the happy couple and picturesque garden space to the back of the property for exclusive use, perfect for photographs!

Psst! The Old House has two glamourous rooms for members of the wedding party to get ready in ahead of the ceremony.

latter can host 80 and is a space to put a smile on your face. It too overlooks the seafront. You then have a choice of four reception spaces. The largest is the Palace Ballroom, which can play host to 180 and comes complete with its own bar and PA system. The private restaurant, a memorable spot with floor-to-ceiling windows and bright views of the coast, can accommodate 80 nearest and dearest. Royal View has a capacity of 60 guests and is located in a quiet spot on the first floor. Finally, the aforementioned Laurel & Hardy can also host your celebrations allowing you to be accompanied by 50 nearest and dearest. What’s more, the venue offers a menu tasting included in its wedding packages as well as a complimentary night’s stay in the Bridal Room including breakfast.

Psst! Southend Pier is famed for being the longest pleasure pier in the world and Park Inn Palace offers the best views of it from its enviable spot overlooking the seafront. 33

Sasha Alexander Photography

Documentary wedding photography capturing your day in a candid, easy and informal way.

London based Makeup artist with over 10 years experience donnarobinsonmakeup.com - donnarmakeup@mail.com - 07539735610

sashaalexanderphotography.com | 07961 784254 contact@sashaalexanderphotography.com

Hutton Hall is a beautiful, exclusive, newly-renovated wedding venue located in the village of Hutton, just outside Brentwood in Essex.

Hutton Hall is a stunning grade II* listed georgian manor house nestling in historic, partially moated, tree lined grounds surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside. Located just two miles from Brentwood there is no more romantic or idyllic setting in which to celebrate your perfect wedding. Hutton Hall, Hutton Village, Brentwood, Essex, CM13 1RX | 07976 280 288 | 07976 845760 | info@huttonhall.co.uk | www.huttonhall.co.uk

mighty

REAL WEDDINGS

SMALL BUT Natalie and John’s wedding had a colourful red and white colour scheme for their big-day theme Images courtesy of Chloe Lee Photography

atalie and John South-Law met in old-school fashion on a night out in Romford back in 2009! “For both of us, we were attracted to each other’s style and confidence,” shares Natalie. “At the end of the night, John offered to buy me a drink, but the bar had closed!” Nearly a decade after that first night, John proposed to Natalie on her 30th birthday, May 2019. “We had a joint birthday and housewarming party which was fancy dress and ’90s themed,” recalls Natalie. “I was dressed as Angelica from the Rugrats, and John was the wrestler John Cena. It was quite late on, John and I found ourselves in the kitchen on our own and he proposed ‒ so we added ‘engagement’ to the list of celebrations that night!” The big date was set 5th October, 2020 at The Old Parish Rooms, Rayleigh, Essex; here Natalie tells us all the finer details about their day...

is small and intimate; even We loved that The Old Parish Rooms ll, low key wedding. The venue before COVID we had planned a sma decorate how we wanted, but was a complete blank canvas for us to light fitting! at the same time, beautiful as it is – that

Our flowers were faux arrangements as we wanted something we could keep forever – we also both have hayfever! The flowers dictated our colour scheme; a white Yorkshire rose (John’s home county) and the red carnation, Spain’s national flower, in honour of my mum’s heritage.

Our centrepieces incorporated the red and white flowers, big candles and greenery. And also, is it even a wedding without log slices?! a two-tier semi-naked cake Our cake was so so nice; we went for red and white macarons of Victoria sponge and red velvet, with Sticky Finger Cake Co, was cascading down the side. Lou, of The akes too. The cake tasting was amazing and also provided some cupc le wedding planning! definitely the best part about the who

but this to reduce our numbers, Due to COVID we had have the and le tab g to have one lon meant that we were able s! am Harry Potter table of dre 36

The place names were cre ated by LK Designs, Laura the designer I met on Instagram and we still talk now! I had pur chased the place settings from Great Or mo nd Street Hospital, along with a donation, as they are very dear to my heart.

REAL WEDDINGS

alised s with two items in: person Our favours were little bag t said tha sweets alised packets of Millions handsanitiser and person ning eve spent one n-of-honour and myself ‘One in a million’. My ma r a bottle of wine! putting these together ove

Our caterers were the wo nderful Gather & Feast Ev ents who we had to arrange 12 day s before! We really could not have been happier; Linda and her team were fantastic, and we still think about the food now to be honest !

The groom wore a suit from Suit Direct which consisted of trousers and a waistcoat, along with red Dr Martens.

A local Facebook group helped me arra nge our transport; they put me in touch with a neighbour, 85-y ear-old John, who owns a classic red car – it fit our colour sche me perfectly! He said that he’d do it for no cost to him, but just a donation to a Cerebral Palsy charity, as his nephew has the condition. I have the same condition, so of course I was happy to agree!

I wore a ’50s-style swing dress from Vivien of Holloway with red sparkly converse! After the ceremony I wore a denim jacket with a patch on the back that says: Love You To Death. For the ceremony, I had a heart-shaped necklace from Tatty Devine and then for after a custom-made necklace from Sugar and Vice.

ss with white ite converse and a red dre The bridesmaids wore wh his own suit ked pic nny. My man-of-honour polka dots from Hell Bu white polka had t it with a red bowtie tha from Topman, and paired ll! lly we dots on it, so it worked rea 37

Because of COVID, we didn’t have entertainment, the day literally was ceremony, pho tos, drinks and food ‒ wh ich was an absolute feast as we really went all out!

It was small, but we are so glad we carried on, we had those who mattered most to us there, and being able to have everyone on one long table really was magical, as we were able to talk to everyone, and soak in the whole day so much easier.

us: Chloe standing in the Two moments that really stick out for p shot (while trying not to middle of the road trying to get a grou ng his way out of a parking get run over). Our neighbour John talki of the venue – legend! ticket while waiting for us to come out

morning, which I thought I didn’t feel nervous at all through the me about their days, but I was was odd, given what people had told morning, and waiting at the just excited! John was nervous in the went away, and it was just venue, but during the ceremony, all that the best day.

THE LITTLE WHITE BOOK Venue, The Old Parish Rooms, www.theoldparishrooms.com Photographer, Chloe Lee Photography, www.chloeleephoto.co.uk Cake, Sticky Fingers Cake Co, www.sfcakeco.com | Caterers, Gather & Feast Events, www.gatherandfeastevents.co.uk | Hair, Samantha Thomas Hairdressing, www.instagram.com/samanthathomashairdressing | Makeup, The Glam Shack by Jodie, www.instagram.com/theglamshackbyjodie Flowers, Flowers for Keeps, www.flowerstokeep.co.uk | Place names, LK Designs, www.lk-designs.co.uk | Dress, Vivien of Holloway, www.vivienofholloway.com | Suit, Suit Direct, www.suitdirect.co.uk Denim jacket, Hallow Collective, www.hallowcollective.com Necklaces, www.tattydevine.com, www.sugarandvicedesigns.com Bridesmaids’ dresses, Hell Bunny, https://hellbunny.com

o suit your s bedrooms, ding day.

Greenwoods Hotel & Spa is a stunning 17th Century Grade II listed manor house, licensed for civil wedding ceremonies and partnerships. We offer two impressive function rooms for smaller more intimate weddings or our beautiful Garden Suite for lavish functions for up to 250 guests. Our licensed Garden Gazebo for outdoor ceremonies is sure to impress! Our wedding team can create a tailor-made package to suit your requirements. With onsite spa facilities and 39 luxurious bedrooms, Greenwoods is the perfect venue for your dream wedding day.

Images by Gavin Conlan, Studio 1, HoL Photography, Neil Fortescue

GREENWOODS Hotel & Spa GREENWOODS FP WI203.indd 1

www.greenwoodshotel.co.uk 01277 829990

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11/07/2019 12:47

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YOUR VENUE, YOUR VISION, YOUR VERY SPECIAL DAY

COMPASSES ROAD - PATTISWICK - ESSEX - CM77 8BG 01376 561322 - info@cpevents.co.uk - www.thecompassespattiswick.co.uk

Family Entertainment at its best...

IF MUSIC BE THE FOOD OF LOVE... Music was the theme of the day for Hannah and Jon’s nuptials Images courtesy of Jasmine Jade Photography

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REAL WEDDINGS

annah and Jon Alford met in July 2016 at a dinner not realising all along it was a set up! “We got on really well and had loads in common, particularly as we are both music teachers,” shares Hannah. “Our first proper date was on 27th July to the Royal Albert Hall to watch one of the BBC Proms, and every year since we try to go around the same time for our anniversary, although in 2020 that wasn’t possible!” Jon had planned an epic proposal over the Easter holidays in 2018 but it didn’t quite go to plan. Hannah explains, “It’s a bit of a long story but one we’ll be telling for the rest of our lives involving a surprise party, a lost suitcase, a thunderstorm and being naked in a car park!” Although it did all happen at Lake Garda in Italy so nothing can really be more romantic than that! The big date was set for 27th July 2019, with Gosfield Hall setting the scene.

LET THE PLANNING COMMENCE! Less than a month after getting engaged Hannah, Jon and Hannah’s mum began visiting venues; luckily with shared tastes and ideas they agreed instantly when visiting Gosfield Hall. “As soon as we arrived, we were instantly wowed by the beauty of the grounds and the friendliness of the staff, it seemed to tick every box. We wanted a venue which had character and picturesque grounds, we loved the way each part of the day was hosted in different rooms, the food and drink options were outstanding, and to top it off they only had availability for our preferred date which seemed like fate.” The interiors were clearly a standout reason to saying ‘I do’ to the venue, with Hannah excited to have her pre-wedding preparations in the Ladies Chambers and her mum got very emotional at the breathtaking Roccoco Suite! “Whilst we were exploring the venue we bumped into an old work colleague of Jon’s, Gaynor. Gaynor was to be our wedding manager at Gosfield Hall, we knew again, it was meant to be!”

DECISIONS DECISIONS Ensuring the decorations complemented the venue was paramount to the couple when planning the style of the day. “We made sure that our flowers complemented our colour scheme, and luckily this tied in nicely with the aesthetics of the venue,” adds Hannah. “For the flowers, we took the lead from Megan of The Willows, who knew what worked well together and what suited the theme. Each member of the wedding party had a different combination of the following: silver dollar eucalyptus, avalanche and love lace roses, white gypsophylia and pink astilbe.” With the interiors providing an instant backdrop Hannah felt they needed little decoration so opted for simple hurricane vases filled with rose gold beads and fairylights, “We found rose gold photo holders to slot our table names into to match and then stood the centrepieces onto mirror plates and scattered hearts cut from old pieces of sheet music,” adds Hannah. The couple continued the music theme and her mum made heart bunting out of the same music paper and cone confetti holders. The pièce de résistance of the wedding breakfast the three-tiered cake, had layers of chocolate and salted caramel, carrot cake and cherry bakewell, and was designed alongside Helen from Amelie’s Kitchen to ensure it complemented the couple’s colour scheme. “A colleague of mine designed and laser cut our musical cake topper which I spray painted to match the colour scheme!” The stationery epitomised romance with a soft pink watercolour background, which transpired across all of the on-the-day stationery and signage. Hannah personally wrote each guest’s place name out for the wedding breakfast; during the latter, Eye Spy and Place Your Bets activities were put onto the tables to encourage guests to mingle. “This led to some fantastic pictures, and I think it got the guests who didn’t know each other talking ‒ nothing wrong with a bit of friendly competition in betting on how long you all think the speeches will be!” shares Hannah.

LOOKING THE PART The wedding dress shopping experience can be different for everyone and Hannah’s initial search left her a little disheartened at first; but raring to go on 43

Down Hall HOTEL

S PA

E S TAT E

Voted best wedding venue in Essex in the prestigious wedding awards catagory A wonderful array of rooms and suites perfect for the most intiamte of ceremonies, to the luxury wedding breakfasts and stunning receptions. All set in 110 acres of beautiful woodland.

Down Hall dates back to 1322 and is saturated in history, reflected in grandeur, elegance and character of the property. More recently, an extensive refurbishment of our wedding facilities has provided a contemporary overhaul of our suites, combining the beautiful historic touches of the building with some unexpected modern touches, appealing to many tastes and themes.

Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Essex, CM22 7AS | 01279 731441 | weddings@downhall.co.uk | www.downhall.co.uk

Summer 2022 Availability We d d i n g s A T ST OKE BY NA Y LA ND

Your Wedding Journey Starts Here... We’ve been creating memories for over 50 years. Nestled in 300 acres of stunning countryside scenery complete with woodlands, lakes and streams, our resort provides the perfect backdrop to your special day with picture-perfect moments. Our versatile banqueting suites accommodate up to 250 guests for civil ceremonies and wedding celebrations. For something a little more rustic, our seasonal Tipis oﬀer an idyllic woodland setting where you can say ‘I do’ outdoors. Then it’s time to celebrate, eat and be merry, partying the night away under ﬂickering fairy lights and twinkling stars. /SbNResort

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T: 01206 265818 E: weddings@stokebynayland.com www.stokebynayland.com/weddings Weddings at Stoke by Nayland Resort, Keepers Lane, Leavenheath, Colchester C06 4PZ

REAL WEDDINGS

the second outing, hair and make-up done, she was ready to be open minded and try everything and anything on! “We walked into J’adore in Coggeshall and my mum picked out a dress (the 16th dress for me to try on after the first trip!) it was not the style I had in mind, but clearly that was something I had to let go of!” recalls Hannah. “As soon as I tried it on, and the shop assistant secured the buttons I knew that this was the one. I walked out to show mum and Catherine and they both welled-up, although my mum cries all the time I had never seen my best friend cry so this was definitely the dress for me! “As well as being beautifully bejewelled with sequins and beads, the dress was super-comfortable and, as it wasn’t fitted, I could eat as much as I wanted on the day – result! It was a very emotional day and we celebrated with prosecco!” Hannah accessorised with a veil from J’adore, something she originally said she didn’t want but it finished off the look perfectly. “I added a bejewelled hair comb, also from the dress shop, to sit on top of it and the jewels of the comb matched the beads on my dress. Mum also gave me the garter from her wedding which had some blue ribbon on it so it was my something old and something blue,” add Hannah. Not to be outdressed, Jon chose a suit from Hardys on Halstead high street and he too kept his choice a secret from bride-to-be Hannah. She adds, “It was the only part of the wedding that I didn’t have control over, but he promised that he’d keep to the colour scheme we’d agreed on. He chose a lovely navy three-piece suit with a pale pink tie and pocket square which matched the exact colour of the bridesmaids’ dresses! He got it completely right and looked super handsome. He also managed to find some pink socks to really tie in the colour scheme!” Jon had four groomsmen and, along with Hannah’s dad and Jon’s stepdad, they wore the same as Jon and they all scrubbed up really well! For the bridesmaids’ and flowergirl dresses amazingly everyone agreed on the same colour, a rose quartz hue found in The Bridesmaid Boutique in Bulphan. “It was amazing everyone liked the same colour and style and it

suited them all, they looked beautiful. Our flowergirl wore the cutest white dress and it came with a matching rose quartz ribbon which tied into a bow at the back. I wanted my bridesmaids to be comfortable, so let them choose their shoes and hair dos (as long as it wasn’t up like mine!) and they all did their own make-up. Our mums also looked stunning on the day, with outfits from Condici complete with wonderful hatinators.”

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD “We unashamedly spent the most money on food and drink at the venue. We wanted to make sure our guests had plenty to indulge in over the course of the day and they certainly did!” recalls Hannah. “Considering the weather, we were lucky enough to hold our drinks reception outside in the courtyard. We had plenty of cocktails and canapés to go round and keep our guests occupied whilst we escaped for our photo shoot. We served prosecco, strawberry daquiris, pimms, and beers, and basil, feta and tomato crostinis, tempura king prawns, mini scotch eggs, smoked duck croquettes, bang bang chicken and chocolate-dipped strawberries – our wedding manager even organised for one of everything to be sent up to our room to make sure we tried all the food! “Our wedding breakfast was also perfect, for starters we had prawn and crayfish tian or roasted artichoke and asparagus tart, beef wellington or roasted vegetable wellington for mains and then a trio of desserts with eton mess, chocolate and salted caramel brownie and créme brulée. Whilst all of my efforts were spent on enjoying every mouthful, I think Jon’s mind was elsewhere in mentally preparing for his speech!”

TIME TO CELEBRATE As Hannah and Jon are both music teachers, their number one priority was to make sure that the day was filled with good music. “We sourced a pianist, Luca Dimitri from a website called Function Central, who played during our ceremony and welcome drinks. He performed a selection of 45

pieces whilst guests were arriving before the ceremony: Clair De Lune by Debussy, Just the Two of Us by Bill Withers, I Get A Kick Out Of You by Jamie Cullum and Isn’t She Lovely by Stevie Wonder. As the bridesmaids walked down the aisle, he began to play the piece I Due Fiume by Einaude. This continued as my dad walked me down the aisle. This was a very special moment. I’d bought him some cufflinks for the day which said ‘Today a bride, tomorrow a wife, always your little girl’, which sums up our relationship really well. As soon as we started walking, dad spotted Jon was crying and pointed it out to all of the guests!” There were two readings: Jon’s brother-in-law read lyrics from the song More by Frank Sinatra and Hannah’s auntie read Ordinary Morning by Joyce Grenfell. “As we signed the register, our pianist performed What A Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong and Can’t Take My Eyes Off You by Andy Williams which are two of our favourite songs. As the sun came out at the end of the ceremony, we walked back down the aisle to Everything by Michael Bublé.” For the reception, the couple wanted to see the band perform live before booking and found The Blue Lion Band. “They’re sort of like a ‘pick’n’mix’ band where you can select which instruments you want and you can also choose which music you want them to play from their set list and give them three requests to learn especially for your big day. They put on a showcase in London which we went to with Jon’s parents, and we thought they were great so we booked them for our evening reception. Our guests were up dancing all night, the band was fantastic at entertaining everyone, and the venue’s DJ played some great tunes to keep everyone on the dancefloor!” The couple’s first dance was to Never Too Much by Luther Vandross. “We asked the band to perform an acoustic arrangement of the song and they absolutely nailed it! We aren’t the most gifted dancers so didn’t prepare a choreography, but we did practise a couple of moves to make sure we didn’t look like complete melons!”

MEMORABLE MOMENTS “I think it’s natural to worry about whether the speeches will go down well, but they were perfect. Dad started off, after a huge round of applause fuelled by Jon’s stags chanting! Dad had included props in his speech and managed to include a picture of the time I performed for Boris Johnson (who had recently been elected as Prime Minister) and a framed childhood blankey. It was the perfect balance of funny and emotional and he remembered to thank all of our suppliers – I would expect nothing less from my dad! “Jon’s speech was, again, very well-prepared and emotional. He extended our thanks and appreciation to our parents and our wedding party for everything they’d done to make sure we had the perfect day. Jon’s brother and best man finished off by telling a few funny childhood stories about Jon and the stag do. All three speeches were very well received, they couldn’t have gone better!” Not all weddings have a life-size cutout of a famous TV chef, Hannah explains why their day did: “On the hen do my friends and I discovered Ainsley Harriott’s ‘Why hello Jill!’ phrase and found it hilarious, so the night before the wedding whilst we were enjoying the hot tub in the Ladies Chambers my bridesmaids introduced me to a cardboard cutout of Ainsley! The guests loved him, there are loads of pictures of him in the DJ booth and he was centre of attention on the dancefloor when Jon and I were off mingling with our guests!”

THE LITTLE WHITE BOOK Venue, Gosfield Hall, www.gosfield-hall.co.uk | Photographer, Jasmine Jade Photography, https://jasminejadephotography.co.uk Bride’s dress and accessories, J’Adore, https://jadorebridalwear.co.uk | Hair and make-up, Lipstick & Locks, www.lipstickandlocks.co.uk Bridesmaids’ dresses, The Bridesmaid Boutique, www.thebridesmaidboutique.co.uk | Mother-of-the-bride and -groom outfits, Coco Fashion, www.cocofashion.com | Groom’s suit, Hardys Menswear, www.hardysmenswear.com | Cake, Amelie’s Kitchen, https://amelies-kitchen.co.uk Flowers, The Willows Flowers, www.thewillowsflowers.co.uk | Entertainment, Blue Lion Band www.bluelionband.co.uk, Function Central, www.functioncentral.co.uk | Balloons, Balloons by Mel, www.facebook.com/MelanieJClancy55 46

WEDDINGS & EVENTS FLORIST

FLOWERS OF DISTINCTION FOR EVERY OCCASION 54 Eastwood Road, Rayleigh, SS6 7JP 01268777983 | www.courtsofrayleigh | courtsofrayleigh@gmail.com

‘I Do’

Say at the beautiful

Valentines Mansion • Grade II* Listed wedding venue • Set in beautiful historic gardens • Choice of ceremony rooms • Easy to reach by road, rail & tube • Car parking on site Call us to find out more on 020 8708 8100 • www.valentinesmansion.com • Emerson Road, Ilford, Essex, IG1 4XA.

@ValMansion

@valentines.mansion

LUXURI WfDDlnG SNOW Sunday 3rd October 2021 DOWN HALL HOTEL & SPA Bishop's Stortford

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Here at Simply Sweet Candy Co, we are a family run business based on the Essex coast, we cover Essex and all surrounding areas. Our aim is to work with you to help make your day a special one. With our huge selection of stunning accessories to choose from including Post Boxes, Wishing Wells, Sweet Cart and Sweet Wheel through to our LOVE letters, Ice Cream Tricycle, Garden Games and our NEW Crazy Golf.

Call: 07787897755 | 01255 860699 Email: simplysweetcandyco@hotmail.com www.simplysweetcandyco.co.uk

Please quote Essex Wedding 1430/86 with your enquiry for 5% discount

o l d br o o k b a r n

THE

perfect

wedding

C OU N T RY V E N U E F O R YOU R

DAY

E S SE X’ S M O ST E XC I T I N G C O U N T RY B O U T IQU E W E DDI N G V E N U E if you’re looking for something unique at Old Brook Barn dreams really do come true. Old Brook Barn is a magnificent 17th century barn. Exclusively yours to enjoy with the stunning natural brook, decking area, willow trees and meadow fields, you could not wish for a better setting on your special day. We are a privately owned venue who pride ourselves on making your day as memorable as possible.

Please contact us to make a viewing appointment, we would be delighted to show your around. 07747 116 100

info@oldbrookbarn.co.uk

Images courtesy of Anesta Broad Photography

www.oldbrookbarn.co.uk

oldbrookbarn

@oldbrookbarn

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A date for your diary... Sunday 20th February 2022, 11AM - 4PM Hosted at Wembley Stadium London

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REAL WEDDINGS

ALL YOU NEED IS

love

Caroline and Gary’s big day was a vintage affair Images courtesy of Dylan Nolte Photography

aroline and Gary met on a night out at a mutual friend’s 30th birthday drinks. “I thought he looked like Danny Dyer so made him shout out his famous line ‘nice one brother’ from Human Traffic,” shares Caroline. “He then played hard to get for a year, and I had to resort to making him aware I was dating other people to make him commit, and it worked the rest is history!” Reflective of his future wife’s love of the Beatles, Gary popped the all important question in Liverpool having booked the Paul McCartney Suite in the Hard Days Night Hotel! “Gary had insisted on driving us up there but I was reluctant to as it takes so long from Essex. I was correct in my judgement, as the car broke down two-miles from the hotel. Gary was trying to see

the funny side while I was crying! We had to push our dinner reservations back an hour to leave us time to get ready; but I did start to relax again. Although, that soon faded when we arrived at the restaurant and it wasn’t quite what we had in mind – it was like a rave – although, I ended up having the time of my life!” Unaware Gary had the ring in his pocket, he was desperate to get Hanah back to the hotel for Plan B! “We arrived back at the suite, he called me out onto the balcony where I found him rather windswept, down on one knee! It was totally perfect and he could finally relax!” The big date was set, 7th March 2020, with Hutton Poplars Hall setting the scene. Here Caroline tells us more about their day... 51

We love the wild flower look and opted for spring blooms in yellow, white and blue for our March wedding; consisting of anemones, craspedia, thistles and eucalyptus.

We felt Hutton Populars Hall had the potential to create our rock‘n’roll, sixties, house-party-vibe atmosphere we wanted for our day. Our centrepieces were loose arrangements matching the bouquets.

We wanted the cake to be really plain with a bow to match my dress. We used material from the skirt of my gown and tied it around the middle – it was really simple but effective and fitted the theme perfectly!

I have a love of music and vinyls, and using small records as the table plan – it just seemed the perfect way to display it! We named each table after iconic couples of the ’60s and had a black and white photo of the couple in the center of the record and then the names of the guests around the edge.

In keeping with the ’60s theme we put two ‘flower power’ sunflower seeds in a small envelop to resemble me and my husband. Guests then took them home to see how big they grew. It was lovely in lockdown receiving all these photos and messages showing us how well they were growing.

Behind the top table we had a glitterball-effect ‘love’ sign, and two wicker peacock chairs for the bride and groom.

REAL WEDDINGS

We had a big vintage bus from the 1950s to transport our guests from the ceremony venue to the evening venue.

We had a sit-down meal during the day and I had always liked the idea of ‘welcome cocktails’. I created my own cocktail and named it Ticket to Ride after the Beatles song. We then had stone baked pizzas passed around to the evening guests – perfect grub to scoff between drinking and dancing.

My Jesus Peiro gown was the first dress I found and loved, we all felt it was a massive sign! I wore my friend’s veil, my something borrowed, with a very simple oval clip above my bun. I felt everything needed to be very clean and simple to fit the classic ’60s-vibe. My dress was a twopiece so I bought a simple elegant bridal skirt from Catherine Deane so I could be more comfortable in the evening. My shoes were a classic court with a chunky mother of pearl heel and ankle strap from Freya Rose London. The bridesmaids wore beautiful, long, straight, fitted navy dresses featuring a crochet neckline and cap sleeves. I let them choose how they wanted their hair and make-up as being a make-up artist and hairdresser myself I understand how personal this can be – I wanted them to all shine in their own way.

We hired the groomsmen’s suits from Anthony’s Formalwear in Billericay. Hubby went for the navy trousers and jacket with a Prince of Wales waistcoat and bottle-green tie. The best men wore the same but with a navy tie, while the dads and rest of the groomsmen all wore navy suits with Prince of Wales ties. We bought mother of pearl cufflinks and tie pins to tie in with the heel of my shoes.

During the welcome drinks a violinist entertained guests and a band kept everyone on the dancefloor during the evening.

We loved every moment of it! We have a lot of friends and family, and after the hen and stag dos it was so lovely how well everyone got on; guest just chatted away and the dancefloor was never empty! Lockdown was just round the corner, so it was so nice we had this just before, with such wonderful memories

Some of our standout moments included our nieces reading during the ceremony, saying our personal vows and the speeches!

THE LITTLE WHITE BOOK

Venue, Hutton Poplars Hall, www.huttonpoplarshall.co.uk | Photographer, Dylan Nolte Photography, www.dylannoltephotography.com Bride’s dress, Pantiles Bride, www.pantilesbride.com | Hair and make-up, Donna Robinson Makeup, www.donnarobinsonmakeup.com Bridesmaids’ dresses, ChiChi London, www.chichiclothing.com | Groom’s suit, Anthony’s Formalwear, www.anthonyformalwear.co.uk Cake, Miss Cupcakes, www.misscupcakes.co.uk | Flowers, The Little Florist, 01277 213 298 | Transport, Star Car Hire, www.starcarhire.co.uk and www.ensignbushire.com | Entertainment, Rockit via Function Central, www.functioncentral.co.uk/band/rockit | Catering, Premier Crew, www.premiercrew.events | Up-lighters, glitter sign and ball, Lovelight Entertainment, www.lovelightentertainment.co.uk | Décor, Anthology Vintage Hire, www.anthologyvintagehire.com | Photo wall, Penny Lane Event Hire, www.pennylaneeventhireltd.co.uk | Violinist, Lizz Lipscombe – Solo Violinist, https://lizzlipscombe.co.uk | Gold chairs, Sitting Pretty Hire, www.sittingprettyhire.co.uk 54

o l d br o o k b a r n

THE

perfect

wedding

C OU N T RY V E N U E F O R YOU R

DAY

Please contact us to make a viewing appointment, we would be delighted to show your around. 07747 116 100

info@oldbrookbarn.co.uk

Images courtesy of Anesta Broad Photography

www.oldbrookbarn.co.uk

oldbrookbarn

@oldbrookbarn

WHY SETTLE

FOR AN ORD INARY CEREMONY?

SWEET CARTS, CANDY FLOSS, FLOWER WALLS AND SO MUCH MORE! We can also host your event giving you the time to spend with your guests without having to run around.

...WHEN YOU CAN HAVE ONE THAT IS

EXTRAORDI NARY,

WRITTEN JUST FOR YOU AND UNFORGETTABLE Amanda is a modern quirky celebrant creating fun unforgettable ceremonies without limits. Offering a range of ceremonies she works with you to create a personalised ceremony that says everything about you as a couple. Amanda guarantees to only officiate one ceremony a day so she is totally focused on your special day, because you deserve the best, and after all... the day should be all about you.

@ITSINTHEPARTYBAG 07702122768 | hannah@mayvioletevents.co.uk

www.amandasceremonies.com @amandasbeautifulceremonies @amandasceremonies T: 07311 431754 E: awhealcelebrant@gmail.com

love, love, love IT MUST BE

REAL WEDDINGS

Kirsty and David’s nuptials were a true celebration of love Images courtesy of Dean Robson Photography

irsty O’Connor and David Brindley met in 2014 in their local pub and their chemistry was evident from the get-go. Kirsty adds, “While we were both out with friends, we started talking and we didn’t stop talking all night! Dave then asked to share our taxi and the rest is history!” Fast-forward many happy years making memories and a family together, Dave proposed at the couple’s favourite spot on Mersea Island, Essex. “We had lunch and was skimming stones, the boys then wanted to go into the sea – where they got soaking wet – the children then turned round with t-shirts on saying ‘Will you marry daddy?’ ‒ Dave was ready and waiting down on one knee!” The big date was set, 8th July 2021 with Creeksea Place, Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex, setting the scene. Here, Kirsty tells us more about their day... 57

We opted for a simple design for our wedding cake, decorated with complementing flowers.

Creeksea Place is special to us as we take the children to the cafe next door often and we love the area. It was the first venue we even looked at and loved how we could stay at the barns next door for a few days and have exclusive hire of the whole place; it was the perfect way to start and end the whole experience.

Our guests’ place names were hand-written on white card placed on a wooden circle stand.

We had gold centrepieces with white flowers on the top, hessian and gold table runners and white décor.

Our chosen blooms were gypsophila, white roses and white peonies. 58

REAL WEDDINGS

My bridesmaids wore beautiful, emerald green, one-shoulder, long gowns.

Our guests indulged in barbecue food, grilled chicken, halloumi with peppers and lemon and butter salmon, with minted potatoes and salad – it was divine!

Dave wore a Hugo Boss black three-piece suit which also matched the groomsmen.

Paula Borrell, a fantastic saxophone player, entertained guests while Jamie Mathais performed a personalised song. In the evening our band were amazing playing soul and Motown. 59

Tip: Invite who you both respect, admire and love, and surround yourself with people you know will be around you for life.

Our favours were mini bottles of Baileys for the ladies and Jack Daniels for the men!

I wore a Maggie Sottero gown and altered the straps and sleeves so it felt more like me!

A part that stands out is how emotional we both were when we saw each other at the start of the ceremony.

The speeches were extremely funny, they had everyone laughing.

On the day, we were so happy and in love, we are blessed with the most amazing family and friends.

KIRSTY AND DAVID’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK Venue, Creeksea Place, www.creekseaplace.co.uk | Photos, Dean Robson Photography, https://deanrobsonphotography.co.uk | Video, Simply Wedding Movies, www.simplyweddingmovies.co.uk | Centrepieces/aisle flowers, May Violet Events, www.mayvioletevents.co.uk | Flowers, Delicate Daisy, https://delicatedaisy.co.uk | Cake, Cake Cusine, www.facebook.com/cakecuisineessex | Catering, Limeberry Catering, www.limeberrycatering.co.uk | Wedding dress, Bellissima Weddings, www.bellissimaweddings.co.uk | Groom’s suit, Hugo Boss, www.hugoboss.com | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Silk Fred, www.silkfred.com | Flowergirl dresses, https://ukflowergirlboutique.com | Entertainment saxophone: Paula Borrell, www.paulaborrell.com, personalised song: Jamie Mathias, www.facebook.com/jamiemathiasmusicc/ 60

Stunning Wedding Venue with Outstanding Offers

The inherent beauty of this exquisite Elizabethan Manor House, with its vibrant history, wondrous tranquillity and meticulously kept gardens; provide each guest with a unique and magical escape.

www.gemmagiorgio.com

Ferry Road, Burnham On Crouch, CM0 8PG | 01621784535 | info@creekseaplace.co.uk | creekseaplace.co.uk

We are a Wedding flower specialist located within a private workshop in Rayleigh, Essex providing a personal bespoke service for all wedding flowers

Facebook and Instagram @simplystunningflowers Contact email info@simplystunningflowers.co.uk Workshop Telephone 07984 432042

www.simplystunningflowers.co.uk

company TWO’S

One gorgeous venue and two equally stunning shoots provide inspiration aplenty

emma Williams, of Cakez, has always loved the creative and quirky nature of Alice in Wonderland, with all of the hidden details being as magical as the main story. “It’s a timeless classic that appeals to all generations with quotes, morals, and lessons that can be applied to most of our lives, from young to old,” shares Gemma. “Alice in Wonderland as a theme for a wedding gave all of us suppliers a chance to bring out and show our creativity, and make each of our contributions to the shoot as magical as the story.” Pastel colours were used to bring some brightness to the set up, which Apton Hall naturally lends itself to because of its open spaces, high ceilings and beautifully natural charm. “We had a moodboard showing the pastel colours to work with and the theme, and we then all brought our own personality to our elements of the shoot and combined them on the day. We even discussed our couple’s names to match the level of detail in the story. The bride was Carol Cheshire, and the groom was Lewis Liddell – Lewis Carroll wrote Alice in Wonderland, and the book was based on a real person Alice Liddell. We all wanted to show how magical a wedding can be, and what suppliers can offer together based just on a theme and some pastel colours. The times on the clocks match the wedding times (the time of the shoot), the images used were based on the book to ensure that authenticity remained. And we all captured the essence of what it is to be Alice to produce a bright, fun, wedding event!”

LOCAL INSPIRATION

PART ONE SUPPLIERS Venue, Apton Hall, www.aptonhall.co.uk | Photographer, The Humble Photography Co, www.thehumblephotographyco.com Cake, Cakez, www.cakez.org | Flowers, Made You Look Flowers, www.madeyoulookflowers.com | Stationery, LemonGrove Lettering, www.folksy.com/shops/lemongrovelettering | Favours, Oven Bakes and Makes, @ovensbakesandmakes | Props, Dreamy Play Days, www.dreamyplaydays.co.uk 63

BO N O O KI W N T G AK S FO ING R 20 23

National Award Winning EST since 2005

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR EFFORTLESS STYLE OR UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE? My team and I are passionate about creating natural looks bespoke to you. If you want to look the best version of YOU, then let’s chat.

WWW.BRIDALHAIRBYJENNIE.CO.UK Bridal Hair by Jennie

@bridalhairbyjennie

I’m bringing the natural back!

WEDDING MAKEUP Highly experienced, providing outstanding make-up services in Essex, London and internationally. Creating beautiful wedding makeup. Airbrush makeup available. Call: 07833 467509 Email: elainemariemakeup@gmail.com W W W. E L A I N E M A R I E M A K E U P. C O . U K Elaine Marie Makeup

elainemarie.makeup

I am a personal Travel Advisor with over 10 years of experience in booking bespoke luxurious Honeymoons. I offer all types of Holidays, so if you are undecided on 2 destinations, why not do both? Whatever your heart’s desire, a Safari in Africa, chill out in the Maldives. Or maybe you fancy something different and off the beaten track? I will tailor-make your dream Honeymoon to be exactly how you want, after all we want to continue to make you feel as special as you will do on your big day! * We also offer a Gift Registry Service so your guests can contribute to the cost of your Honeymoon as a Wedding Gift *

The Orchid Room Wedding & Event Floral Design Covering Essex, Kent, London, Hertfordshire & Suffolk

Through our years of professional experience, our wedding florists in Essex will inspire you with ideas and find the right flowers for your day, leaving you to focus on other aspects of organizing your wedding.

www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/stefania.cerro stefania.cerro@travelcounsellors.com | 01268 840108 |

StefaniaCerroTravelCounsellors

theorchidroomweddings.com 01268 768889 | theorchidroom@tiscali.co.uk

mma Hammond, of Bloomwood Photography, coordinated this shoot reflecting a romantic, classic, summer bridal style. “We wanted to achieve a theme reflective of the beautiful classic cars a 1960 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud and 1967 Jaguar MK2x from Lewis Car Hire,” shares Emma. Jennie from Bridal Hair adds, “For the first style I opted for a simple chic ponytail to accentuate Rebecca’s features and for the second style I went for a slick simple but romantic bun. Using Maria Nila dry shampoo to add texture and natural volume.” While make-up artist Elaine says, “Due to Covid-19 restrictions I was unable to carry out the make-up but I had an idea to tutor the look to our model using my make-up kit of products with hygiene practices in place. The eyes were lightly framed with glowing eyeshadow pigments and wispy lashes, while the skin was flawless using the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation, and we finished the look off with red lips to create a classic romantic effect with a modern twist.” Essex Bridal Outlet supplied two stunning wedding dresses, Megan and Jasmine by Allure Romance.

LOCAL INSPIRATION

PART TWO SUPPLIERS Venue, Apton Hall, www.aptonhall.co.uk | Photographer, Bloomwood Photography, www.bloomwoodphotography.co.uk | Dresses, Essex Bridal Outlet, www.essexbridaloutlet.co.uk | Hair, Bridal Hair by Jennie, www.bridalhairbyjennie.co.uk | Make-up, Elaine Marie Make Up, www.elainemariemakeup.co.uk | Flowers, Love Field of Dreams, www.lovefieldofdreams.com | Transport, Lewis Car Hire, www.lewiscarhire.com Model, Rebecca Smith

Special Moments

Something Borrowed Bridal is a wedding dress rental service based in Essex offering a selection of beautiful designer gowns at affordable prices.

Time to plan your perfect wedding?

As a celebrant, I offer you your dream ceremony, any time any place - an alternative to the traditional options, the only limit is your imagination.

Clive B. Burgess Celebrant (for 20 years)

To discover more visit www.specialmomentscelebrant.co.uk or call 07838 921491

www.somethingborrowedbridal.co.uk

07802 258007 | info@somethingborrowedbridal.co.uk

Making Gift Purchasing

A Personal Unique Experience Sole Bay Strings is an experienced, first-rate string quartet. We specialise in providing distinguished background music for weddings and private or corporate dinner parties in East Anglia and London. You can see us perform at the following events.

WWW.SOLEBAYSTRINGS.CO.UK

hello@solebaystrings.com or call 01473 717 644

www.prettynpersonal.com prettynpersonal

SECOND SKIN The new Sakura bridal lingerie collection from Wacoal offers a variety of styles decorated with pale pink and lilac cherry blossom available in sizes 34B to 38E, www.wacoal-europe.com

The latest wedding lingerie and nightwear offering from Ann Summers includes pretty lace bras, thongs, robes and babydolls in sizes up to 38G, www.annsummers.com

Lovehoney’s latest Wild Anticipation collection boasts chic white and blush-pink bridal bodies, suspender sets and bras with matching briefs, www.lovehoney.co.uk

In good hands

Carry your big-day essentials in this stylish quilted leather tassel clutch, £298, www.anyahindmarch.com

EDITOR’S FAVOURITE

EDITOR’S PICK

These silk eye masks, £44 each, are a wedding night essential! To shop, visit www.gigiandolive.com

focus

FASHION Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals the latest bridal news, buys and launches

Something new

Bespoke bridal brand Alonuko has launched the Freedom collection of ten dresses and one suit. The styles have been hand-crafted by founder and creative director Gbemi Okunlola and her team using top-quality materials such as silk Mikado and Japanese and Swarovski crystals. There’s a design to suit every personality, from a grand princess gown to a fitted fishtail shape, all inspired by the designer’s London upbringing and Nigerian heritage. To book an appointment, visit www.alonuko.co.uk

Little lovelies

Online children’s formalwear brand ROCO has collaborated with TV personality, radio DJ and model Vogue Williams on a hand-picked edit of traditional yet contemporary cotton and linen-mix pieces ideal for junior bridesmaids and pageboys. The stunning collection consists of 15 looks ranging from £35 to £60 for ages three months to 14 years, and hero items have been named after Vogue’s children with a pink Gigi one-piece and a charming Theodore two-piece. To shop, visit www.rococlothing.co.uk

In other news for pageboys, the new childrenswear range from Oliver Brown includes dapper black dinner jackets, trousers and grey waistcoats, www.oliverbrown.org.uk

How cool are these statement Love earrings from Abbott Lyon? They’re purse-friendly too at just £39, www.abbottlyon.com 68

BRIDAL at UNIT 2, MORRISONS SUPERSTORE, NORTHWICK ROAD, CANVEY ISLAND, ESSEX SS8 0PS 01268 698400 01268 693927 DEL.TAILORS@TALK21.COM

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BRIDESMAIDS BRIDAL GOWNS MOTHER OF THE BRIDE & GROOM BRIDAL ACCESSORIES

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01376 587 949

DRESSCODENINE.CO.UK Unit 21 Allshots Enterprises, Woodhouse Lane, Kelvedon CO5 9DF

FASHION SPECIAL

What dreams are made of

To celebrate An Essex Wedding’s 100th issue here’s 100 wonderful wedding dresses to swoon over – you’re welcome!

https://katefearnley.com 71

DRESSES & JUMPSUITS Our Multiway Dresses and Jumpsuits are the perfect option for both adults and children. We can cater for all ages, sizes and heights. With over 30 ways to style we believe there is a style to suit and flatter all! Adults from £95 | Children from £59

THE THE

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DRESSES & & JUMPSUITS JUMPSUITS DRESSES DRESSES & JUMPSUITS OurMultiway MultiwayDresses Dressesand andJumpsuits Jumpsuitsare arethe the Our Our Multiway Dresses and Jumpsuits are the perfectoption optionfor forboth bothadults adultsand andchildren. children. perfect perfect option for both adults and children. Wecan cancater caterfor forall allages, ages,sizes sizesand andheights. heights. We We can cater for all ages, sizes and heights. Withover over30 30ways waysto tostyle stylewe webelieve believethere thereisisis With With over 30 ways to style we believe there styleto tosuit suitand andflatter flatterall! all! aaastyle style to suit and flatter all! Adultsfrom from£95 £95|| |Children Childrenfrom from£59 £59 Adults Adults from £95 Children from £59

With over 80 stunning shades to choose from our luxurious and flattering fabric is the perfect choice for your bridesmaids. Order your fabric swatches today via our website.

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Withover over80 80stunning stunningshades shadesto tochoose choosefrom from With With over 80 stunning shades to choose from ourluxurious luxuriousand andflattering flatteringfabric fabricisisisthe the our our luxurious and flattering fabric the perfect perfectchoice choicefor foryour yourbridesmaids. bridesmaids.Order Order perfect choice for your bridesmaids. Order your yourfabric fabricswatches swatchestoday todayvia viaour ourwebsite. website. your fabric swatches today via our website.

MATCHING ACCESSORIES

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Made with the same fabric we also offer matching accessories for the men such as MATCHING MATCHING ACCESSORIES ACCESSORIES MATCHING ACCESSORIES Ties, Bow Ties & Cravats that come complete Made Madewith withthe thesame samefabric fabricwe wealso alsooffer offer Made with the same fabric we also offer with a complimentary pocket square. matching matchingaccessories accessoriesfor forthe themen mensuch suchas matching accessories for the men such asas Ties, Ties & that come Ties,Bow Bowfor Ties Cravats thatchildren! comecomplete complete Ties, Bow Ties &&Cravats Cravats that come complete Available both adults and with withaaacomplimentary complimentarypocket pocketsquare. square. with complimentary pocket square. Adults from | Children from £17 Available for both adults children! Available for£20 both adultsand and children! Available for both adults and children! Adults Adults from £20 Children from £17 Adultsfrom from£20 £20|| |Children Childrenfrom from£17 £17

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Supplier of Kenneth Winston, Richard Designs, Emma Bridals and the only supplier of Paul Zeni Bridal in Essex. We also have an extensive range of bridesmaids dresses in over 90 styles and 60 colours! MARTELS WEDDING VILLAGE, HIGH EASTER ROAD, BARNSTON ESSEX CM6 1NA

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Occasions & Celebrations S P E C I A L I S T W E D D I N G F LO R I S T & E V E N T D É C O R

Dream weddings that are style conscious with exceptional attention to detail and customised service tailored to your needs.

T: 01621 859 969 E: enquiries@mitchellsjewellers.com 107 H I G H S T R E E T, M A L D O N, E S S E X, C M9 5E P

Situated in Brentwood and Maldon, we are a family run, independent jeweller.

PACKAGES TO SUIT ALL BUDGETS. COVERING ESSEX, LONDON & SURROUNDING AREAS t: 07745 464 129 e: occasions247@aol.com

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We offer a wide selection of jewellery, suitable for all occasions and budgets. Dealing with some of the best designers in the UK and Europe we provide a varied collection of traditional and contemporary jewellery that never compromises on quality.

www.mitchellsjewellers.co.uk

Showstopping

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county.wedding

44K+ FOLLOWERS

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A CLICK AWAY FROM YOUR PERFECT DAY

CWM_WEDDING Get your mood-board in the mood with some picture-perfect inspiration

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Licensed to produce Civil Ceremonies • Wedding breakfast up to 200 people

Weddings at the

palace hotel, southend-on-sea

A beautiful seaside venue, filled with natural light and stunning views overlooking the River Thames. Park Inn by Radisson Palace, Southend-on-Sea is the perfect location for your special day. Packages from £34 per person Book via T: +44 1702 455100 or events.southend@parkinn.com

www.parkinn.co.uk/hotel-southendonsea LPA00152 Park Inn Wedding Ad A4 (BPM0197).indd 1

09/12/2016 09:23

#BROWGOALS

ANYONE FOR TEA?

Toner, often the forgotten skincare routine step, is actually hugely beneficial. It can help with breakouts, remove the last traces of make-up, eliminate excess oil, help balance the skin’s pH levels, soothe and refresh. So, check out the new Q+A Green Tea Daily Toner (£8). Ideal for everyone, especially those with stressed-out skin, it’s packed full of antioxidants that protect from environmental damage. One in particular, EGCG, can even rejuvenate dying skin cells to restore and repair skin. Green Tea itself is rich in vitamin E, a moisturising ingredient known to minimise signs of ageing, amongst myriad other benefits. Check out www.qandaskin.com

Look a-brow-zing on your big day with the help of Kevyn Aucoin True Feather Brow Duo. Your eyes are the window to the soul that your partner fell in love with so why not frame them with the perfect brow? This dualended make-up marker helps to shape and set for a flattering and natural look. At one end you’ll find a precision brush tip that allows you to create hair-like strokes and fill in sparse areas, while blending in seamlessly. At the other end is an invisible gel infused with mung bean and red clover extract, a formula that aids healthy hair growth while providing a flexible hold. Priced at £22 Kevyn Aucoin True Feather Brow Duo is available at www.spacenk.com

Beauty

Beauty editor Kelly Andrews shares her latest beauty must-haves for the bride to be

BUZZ ZEST FOR LIFE

In need of a wake-up call? Inspired by the revitalising energy of waterfalls on the southern hills of the Isle of Arran, ARRAN Sense of Scotland’s Glenashdale fragrance combines an invigorating blend of rasped lemons, grapefruit and vetiver to create a truly tropical experience. Kickstart your wedding morn with a refreshing shower using Glenashdale Bath & Shower Gel followed by the matching body lotion. Infused with essential oils, extracts of vitamin E, aloe vera and shea butter they’ll uplift, refresh and revitalise both skin and spirits. The Glenashdale Body Care Gift Set is £30 at https://arran.com

ONE ENCHANTED EVENING

The highly-anticipated new fragrance from Ghost, Orb of Night Eau de Parfum, is the perfect scent to transport you to a warm, romantic summer evening. It’s described as a woody floriential with top notes of mandarin, cherry almond and bergamot, with a heart of freesia, orange blossom, ylang ylang and jasmine. So, if you’re looking for your signature big-day fragrance head to Superdrug, Boots, The Fragrance Shop or The Perfume Shop and see if it’s the one. Ghost Orb of Night is available in three sizes: 30ml (£27), 50ml (£38) and 75ml (£48).

THAT’S A WRAP

The Copper Sure Rapid Dry Hair Wrap is the latest innovation from cult hair health brand AQUIS. Made from a naturally antimicrobial performance fabric it allows the hair to dry without force or heat and eliminates the frizz, damage and breakage caused by harsh terry towels. Hair is at its weakest when wet so protecting it from such harsh treatment means it’ll be smoother and stronger. What’s more, since it’s woven with copper, which boasts antimicrobial and antibacterial properties proven to repel bacteria the wrap stays fresher longer, and is great for travel. I absolutely love mine – it’s taken the stress out of washing my hair in more ways than one. Check out www.aquishair.co.uk where the AQUIS Copper Sure Rapid Dry Hair Wrap is priced at £30. 86

FOR YOUR EYES ONLY

With more than 2,300 five-star reviews to its name GLOSSYBOX Skincare’s Eye Boost Cream is a cult favourite. Designed to combat the look of tired eyes, this fragrance-free formula is packed with anti-inflammatory botanicals and absorbs effortlessly into the skin. Thanks to its elderflower extract infusion it also helps to reduce the appearance of dark circles. So if wedding planning has been keeping you up at night, why not try staving off the effects with this little beauty? Priced at £16, it’s available at www.glossybox.co.uk

BEAUTY NEWS

KISS ME QUICK

When you’re lost for words, let your lips do the talking with the newest member of Glow Hub’s core essentials range, pep talk_. The petrochemical-free formula is bursting with nourishing avocado, rosehip and almond oils, rich in vitamin E and B to softly plump lips while giving them a hit of hydration. Finished with a team of peptides to help smooth creases, define contours and boost fullness it leaves you with a beautiful pillowy pout. Totally kissable lips on your wedding day! pep talk_ Plump Peptide Rescue Balm is £8 at https://glowhub.com

SILKY SMOOTH

Silk is by far the best material to use in a cleansing routine as the natural amino acids leave skin noticeably radiant and delay the ageing process. Cotton is, in fact, abrasive on a cellular level so, cleansing with a flannel causes friction leading to fine lines. This Is Silk’s 100 per cent silk face cloths boast a weave that gently exfoliates, conditions and smooths skin, leaving it glowing. What’s more, they’ve been naturally dyed black to avoid unsightly make-up marks, which can blight their white counterparts even after a thorough wash. This Is Silk Cleansing Cloths in Noir are £21.99 for three at https://thisissilk.com

PERFECT PREP

Award-winning and cruelty-free make-up brand Milani Cosmetics has introduced the Rose Prep + Prime range to Boots and Beauty Bay. It’s all about nourishing and replenishing your skin for a radiant complexion and dewy glow. I’m a fan of the lip treatment products in particular, which were game-changers for me! The Rose Sugar Lip Scrub (£13.75) comes first in the pamper session, polishing dry and chapped areas for an ultra-soft and smooth pout. Follow with The Rose Butter Lip Mask (£13.75), which contains hyaluronic acid to plump and replenish moisture. Your lipstick will look perfect on the day and your bridal make-up artist will love you for doing all the prep for them! These little heroes are available at www.milanimakeup.co.uk

NATURAL BEAUTY

#LIFEPROOF

Clarins’ new everlasting foundation and concealer are the perfect duo for your complexion, combining the very best of the brand’s skincare expertise with make-up that boasts 24-hour wear with high coverage and a matte finish. The two products contain a special hold polymer using organic oat sugars, known for their ability to increase the adherence of colour pigments to the skin, meaning you’ll stay looking flawless from vows to dancefloor. The Everlasting Foundation is priced at £31 (30ml) and the Everlasting Concealer at £23 (15ml). Find out more at www.clarins.co.uk

Add some awardwinning colour to your bridal beauty kit with Pure Anada’s allnatural mineral makeup Dreamy Compact Palette. It features a carefully curated collection of a pressed highlighter and four eye colours in the brand’s most popular neutral shades, ideal for creating that naturally glowing big-day look. Pure Anada products are handcrafted in the Canadian prairies from fresh ingredients incorporating the goodness of nature into each one. The Dreamy Compact Palette is available exclusively in the UK for £29.95 at www.liveinthelight.co.uk 87

Be beautiful

BE YOU

Emolyne Ramlov, founder of the eponymous make-up brand, talks inclusivity and bringing a colour boost to your bridal beauty

Tim McBaj

It’s our first anniversary soon and there’s been so much to learn over that time. Covid made things difficult as we actually went into lockdown around two weeks before launch. But we’d worked so hard for two-and-a-half years and I didn’t want to delay. It was a risk, but luckily it went crazy. Black Lives Matter came along and as an inclusive brand headed up by a black woman there was a lot of interest in what we had to offer. Everything happens for a reason.

orn in Uganda and raised in Denmark Emolyne Ramlov discovered a passion for make-up upon entering her teenage years. Until the age of 13 when she moved to Europe she hadn’t been permitted to wear make-up, which in Africa was seen as a distraction from studying and an unwelcome beginning to a flirtation with the opposite sex. So, it was a complete culture shock for her as she sat alongside her new classmates to find them in full beat and looking glam. “I went home and said to my mum: ‘We need to talk!’ She took me shopping and I filled my basket with as much make-up as I could. I needed to catch up and I haven’t stopped since,” she tells us. County Wedding Magazines’ beauty editor, Kelly Andrews, met up with Emolyne to discover more about her journey from passionate teenager to creating her very own make-up brand. What was the inspiration behind Emolyne? As my love for make-up grew I visited plenty of big stores looking for products to suit my skin tone, but couldn’t find the right ones. They had two to three reds perhaps, but none that I 88

liked or were complementary. As I grew older I realised that this was a problem across a lot of different product ranges. There was no single brand offering a matching lipstick, liner and nail polish, so I thought: “Well, I’m just going to do this then!” I use a lot of reds and nudes myself, so it made sense to start there, making sure that no matter the skin tone someone would be able to get at least one of each. I created 15 reds and 15 nude shades and even then I wasn’t sure if I should stop! The range has five colours for light, five for medium and five for dark skin tones. It allows people to pick a different colour for different seasons, as our skin tone changes throughout the year. I also created a kit to save my customers time, meaning once they discover their perfect shade they can easily find the matching products. When it came to naming this huge range of shades I wanted to be able to tell a story while keeping the brand personal, so I immediately thought of Africa. It was a way of honouring my place of birth and bringing the whole story together. Plus, I knew I could never run out of names if I looked there for inspiration!

Tell us more about the ideas, ethics and beliefs the company is founded on. I wanted this brand to be for everyone, no matter their gender or race – if you’re into make-up this is the place for you. The selection is big enough that everyone can feel included, which was the key. How do we achieve that perfect marriage between skin tone and make-up shades? The easiest way for us was to put models on our website covering as many different skin tones as

BEAUTY INTERVIEW

we could. That way customers can see whose is the closest to their own and how each shade looks on her. Tell us about your own beauty regime. I keep it simple. I wash my face every morning and evening, as well as steaming to open the pores, which allows serums to absorb more effectively. I use serum everywhere – hands, face, neck. These are the areas that start to show signs of age once you reach 40, so it’s important to look after them. A dermatologist once told me to use serum on my dry hands, and up to then I’d always thought it was just for the face, but I’ve never looked back. Ole Henriksen’s Truth Serum is my favourite, and not just because he’s a fellow Dane! What are your make-up bag must-haves? Uganda, Casablanca and Abuja are my favourite Emolyne shades. But it’s like being asked about my favourite child – they’re all my babies! I mainly wear a nude during the day for meetings, and in the evening I prefer reds. I’m particularly into red oranges at the moment. I always carry a nail polish with me too – Cameroon is versatile and works for all skin tones. And tissues... a mum can’t work without a tissue! What’s your top wedding-day make-up look? I’d go for something light depending on hair colour and skin tone. Keep it simple, elegant

and clean to keep focus on the eyes. You want your new spouse to see you sparkle. For light skin tones I’d recommend Luxor, Eritrea or Ciaro. For medium tones Tanzania, Kampala or Uganda work beautifully. And for darker tones Nairobi, Asmara or Marrakech are all perfect. Begin by using your favourite moisturiser, I’m a fan of a thick formulation in the winter. That serves as a base for the foundation and concealer. Then, keep building the look until you’re happy. Don’t start too strong as it’s hard to take anything back once you’ve gone too far.

“Enjoy and play with colour. Rule your shade and don’t be afraid to try something you haven’t tried before, they’re there to be explored.” What advice would you offer a bride who might not be used to wearing make-up but who wants to step it up for the wedding? I’d tone it down, don’t use too much. A little colour makes the lips pop, and match that to the eyeshadow for an on trend monochromatic look. What’s the one make-up secret you wish everyone knew? Moisturise properly before you do anything else. That’ll give you that all-important glow and

sets your make-up for long-lasting perfection. It was essential to me that our lipsticks last so you don’t have to keep topping it up throughout the day and that’s particularly important for a bride. What’s your proudest achievement so far? Definitely having the brand recognised for inclusivity. I love to see people go on the website and realise just how much choice there is, and hearing them say they just don’t know which to choose. The other thing for me was being able to make the products vegan and cruelty-free. I wanted to educate people to care about what they put on their skin, so this makes me really happy. Is there anything you’d still like to achieve? So much! Every day we listen to our consumers and what they want. So, the next phase for Emolyne Cosmetics is incorporating more skin tones for them, as well as including more models they can identify with. I also want to grow the product categories while staying within the 15 reds and 15 nudes concept. Look out for our pop ups too. Our original plans for these had to be cancelled due to Covid, but I still want somewhere for people to experience the range in real life, so they’ll be coming soon.

Find your perfect match at www.emolyne.com 89

y t u a e B

Q&A Our local experts answer your questions

FABULOUSLY VINTAGE I’m wearing a heavily beaded Art Decoinspired gown for our winter nuptials and wondered what hair and make-up style would be reflective of the era? We love the elegant styling of the 1920s and ‘30s ‒ perfect for a classic wedding! To complement an Art Deco beaded gown we recommend marcel waves. This style is adaptable for all hair lengths, for long hair we’d advise adding some fluffy curls to the marcel waves. To finish off this styling, you could add a beaded hairpiece to be positioned on one side of the head. For your make-up, a dark smoky eye and a dark lip in a cherry or plum red will really make the look come together. Anna Vine | Owner Le Keux Vintage Salon https://lekeux.com/essex

IN A FLASH I’ve noticed in photos, especially those with flash photography, that my appearance always looks so pale! I’m worried about this happening in the wedding photos? What’s the reason for this, and how can my make-up artist correct this for my wedding day? The main cause for your make-up looking so pale in photos is the flashback. That white cast under your eyes is typically caused by specific SPF ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide which may be found in your concealer or foundation. These ingredients are used to deflect the sunlight which is used to protect you from the sun’s rays. The intense light of flash photography is deflected off the skin and into the camera lens, creating a whitish glow. To prevent this from happening in your wedding photos, is for your make-up artist to use HD foundation, or foundations and concealers without SPF and a good setting powder – for this I recommend RMCA setting powder. Samantha Easter | Make-up artist Beautiful You www.beautifulyoumakeupartist.co.uk

Alison White Wedding Flowers

MAKEUP ARTIST

Based in Leaden Roding near Great Dunmow, we specialise in bespoke floral arrangements for your wedding day, fresh and silk flowers available. For a free no obligation quote, call Alison on 07988 824332 or email alison@alisonwhiteweddingflowers.co.uk ALISONWHITEWEDDINGFLOWERS.CO.UK

B E A U T I F U LY O U M A K E U P A R T I S T. C O . U K info@beautifulyoumakeupartist.co.uk | 07967226639

Alison White Wedding Flowers

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ALSO AT MARTELS WEDDING VILLAGE, HIGH EASTER ROAD, BARNSTON, ESSEX CM6 1NA

COURTURIOSITY BESPOKE BRIDAL & EVENING WEAR

BESPOKE LUXURY IS AT THE HEART OF THE COUTURIOSITY BRAND AND ALL OF OUR CONTEMPORARY EVENING AND BRIDAL WEAR PIECES. OUR AIM IS TO BRING TO LIFE THE VISIONS OF OUR CLIENT, CAPTURED IN THE FINEST DETAILS OF OUR GOWNS TO CREATE A TRULY BESPOKE EXPERIENCE. WE LOVE TO TELL THE STORIES OF OUR CLIENTS AND ALLOW OUR PIECES TO BECOME PART OF THEIR JOURNEY, WHETHER IT BE A BALL GOWN FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION OR THE PERFECT WEDDING GOWN TO SEE A BRIDE MOVE INTO THE NEXT CHAPTER OF HER LIFE.

BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION WITH OUR DESIGNER TO HAVE YOUR DREAM BRIDAL OR EVENING GOWN HANDMADE TO YOUR BESPOKE REQUIREMENTS. DESIGNED TO BE AS UNIQUE AS OUR CLIENTS, EVERY PIECE WE CREATE IS HANDMADE WITH LOVE AND CARE IN OUR ESSEX STUDIO. WWW.COUTURIOSITY.CO.UK STUDIO@COUTURIOSITY.CO.UK 07527616942

Beautiful dresses waiting to be reloved Bridal Reloved Maldon is part of the UK’s largest chain of wedding dress boutiques selling new, ex-sample and immaculate preowned designer wedding dresses. Andrew Miles Photography

Dan Scott Professional Wedding Photographer

BRIDAL RELOVED MALDON 3 King George’s Place, High Street, Maldon, CM9 5BZ 01621 927007, maldon@bridalreloved.co.uk www.bridalreloved.co.uk

Chair Covers & Chair Decor, Table Linen & Napkin Hire, Venue & Table Decor, Table Centre Pieces, Blossom Trees, Post Box Hire, Aisle Carpets & Ceremony Decor, Candelabra Hire, Charger Plates, Table Chandeliers & Lamplites, Illuminated Feather Displays, Backdrops & Draping, Vase Hire, Table & Venue Dressing, Catering Equipment Hire

The best wedding photography is only captured when you’re being yourself! Real actual moments are captured naturally when you are being you and not concentrating too much on anything else. Dan with the help from his wife Claire are here to document your big day in a calm, natural and relaxed manner.

www.weddingphotosbydan.com weddingphotosbydan@mail.com 07738986742

Photographing the happy tears, the cheers, and the cake tiers. My approach is to capture the pure essence of your day and all its unique details and emotion. All the love, hugs and laughter. I am humbled and honoured when anyone books me, as I unstandardised the importance of these photographs, they are a beautiful time capsule of your day that you will cherish forever. No two weddings are ever the same and thats why I love what I do. I look forward to having some fun, being a part of your celebrations and creating your very special story. Emma X

For further information, please call (01268) 512351 / (07801) 311560 Website: www.exquisiteweddingandeventservices.co.uk

Email: emmagoslingphotograhy@gmail.com Instagram: @emmagoslingphotography Facbook: Emma Gosling Photography

W W W . E M M A G O S L I N G P H O T O G R A P H Y . C O . U K

CATERING

THE

big

Choosing your catering and refreshments

hen planing a wedding, plenty of time goes in to choosing the theme and colour scheme, the invites and flowers, and of course the dress! However, what the guests will look forward to, enjoy on the day and remember long after the event itself is... the food! Yes, the way to please your guests is to ensure they have plenty to indulge in, a tipple (or two) and everyone will be merry on their way to the dancefloor with full bellies. Here’s three aspects of the big-day breakfast to put your personal twist on!

ARE YOU BEING SERVED! After the ‘I dos’, the first thing the guests experience when arriving at your reception venue is the ‘welcome drink’. Traditionalists among you will perhaps opt for some bubbles, but with the ‘bespoke cocktail’ trend set to stay in to 2022 and beyond, why not welcome loved ones and set the tone for the reception with a personalised cocktail? Whether you pop a twist on a classic name such as a ‘PaulChar Martini’ (be handy if your names were Paul and Charlotte) or you worked with a mixologist to create your very own drink, it’s a great way to add a personal twist on proceedings. To really go to town, why not colour-coordinate your cocktail with your colour scheme? For the non-alcoholics, you don’t want to make them feel like one of the kids with a soft drink and a colourful straw, so make sure you have grown-up alternatives. Mocktails ‘virgin’ cocktails can look as funky as their alcohol counterparts so ask your bar team to create few options that will look just as fancy but for those that are teetotal. Finally, when planning seasonal nuptials, hot chocolate and mulled wine make great festive beverage options!

GO RETRO Shots! Now, we can all remember a bad night (or two), having had shots back in the day; but these little, short, sharp hits are making a comeback as couples are looking to have one big party after non-existent weddings over the last 18months. There are fancier alternatives out there nowadays, and what better time to knock one back and start the party then after the speeches and raise the ultimate toast! One, two, three go!

BREAKFAST RAISING THE BAR Food stations hit the wedding scene a couple of years ago, and the new musthave is a drinks bar! ‘Pimp your prosseco’ or ‘Seven deadly gins’ are fun themes where you can have your favourite tipple along with different mixers, fruit, colourings and so on for guests to create their own drink and have fun at the same time. Again, for those that like to keep a clear head, you can opt for coffee bars (watch out for these in 2022) and for kids and adults alike, a ‘milkshake shack’ will go down a treat. If you have a static bar in your wedding reception venue, consider hiring professional bartenders with ‘flair’ skills; come the evening party, their behind the bar antics will keep the mood going! Tip: opt for paper straws and look for alternatives to plastic cups – try reusable ones that guests could even keep and take home after the big day as a memento.

Check out...

TAPP’D COCKTAILS

Launched in 2019 Tapp’d Cocktails, a family run Essexbased company, has taken the UK by storm with perfectly blended ready to drink cocktails that are handcrafted and served within seconds. Sourcing the finest ingredients including real fruit, ethically sourced coffee and award-winning spirits, the company delivers exceptional quality and a perfect pour every time. Gluten free, vegan, and free from any artificial flavours and preservatives, options include: Cosmos, Pornstar Martini, Piña Colada, Espresso Martini and Mojito to name but a few. Visit www.tappdcocktails.com 93

Check out … THE TEAPOD DID SOMEONE SAY BRUNCH? The brunch craze – unless you’ve been under a rock for a few years it’s a fusion of breakfast and lunch – is a fab contemporary wedding breakfast offering for relaxed ‘I dos’. Although 2021 weddings are perhaps opting for touch-free alternatives to grazing tables, we expect to see them return bigger and better than ever in 2022. Whether you provide mini ‘brunch baskets’ of much-loved favourites of pastries, fruits and cakes, or are planning your extravagant tables for next year of masses of continental breakfast delights, and hot choices to boot; the key is presentation. For the small option, think quirky hampers and baskets with red and white picnic blankets and mason drinking jars; and for the full on table platters opt for fun quirky signs such as ‘You’re the bacon to my eggs’, or ‘spread the love’ flagging up the condiments table. The beauty of hiring in foody trucks/stations is that you can combine multiple offerings for guests, think: brunch bars, waffle and crêpe stations, and pizza vans in the evening. Not only are they indulgent comfort food options loved by all ages, but the ‘live cooking’ aspect is added entertainment value. If the whole day is outdoors, think about how you can break down the day’s food offerings in to themes so, light lunch, fruit, brunch, bloody marys and desserts with picnic-style cushions and blankets during the day; then as the night sets in, have lanterns providing the light, pizza vans, firepits to toast marshmallows with s’more kits for guests. End the night with a mulled spiced cocktail and sparklers – a picture-perfect end!

Essex’s The TeaPod offers a range of packages starting with providing a healthy breakfast for the wedding party, early afternoon snacks or just the sweet treat on the big day right through to bringing the ‘midnight munchies’. The TeaPod serves sweet and savoury crêpes and waffles alongside milkshakes, speciality teas (which make perfect wedding favours), coffee, cold drinks and a range of confectionery items ‒ vegan, dairy- and gluten-free items are also available! The trailer, with an eye-catching floral design, sits well in natural settings in stately manors, hotel gardens, woodland sites, walled gardens and lots of homes! To complete the full service wedding offering, The TeaPod’s owner/operator Therese is also a certified wedding celebrant so is really in tune with all aspects of your big day! Check out: www.theteapod.co.uk

TAKE YOUR SEATS As we approach the winter months, seasonal weddings really come in to their own. Floral displays have more texture, plenty of greenery and alternative elements such as pinecones; while colour palettes boast deeper, richer tones reflective of the time of year. One element which is restricted though is outdoor dining, and with Covid at the back of our minds for the rest of 2021 at least, couples will be opting for sit-down waiter service when it comes to the wedding breakfast. But alas, traditional certainly doesn’t mean boring, far from it. Firstly, table layouts and tablescaping: T-shape table designs are proving oh-so popular enabling the happy couple to sit at the ‘head’ of the table while not being too far away from their guests. While tablescaping – creating a scene in the centre of the table with a cohesive theme and feel – will ensure your guests have a visually pleasing view no matter how long they are seated for. With the sit-down three-course (or four if you’re real foodies) making a return, how do you get creative with your food choices? Canapés remain a firm favourite and offer a way to show your personalities; if you love a toad in the hole, why not offer mini-versions? It’s always worth having sweet options, savoury, vegan and vegetarian to make sure all your guests are covered. Ask your caterers to hold some back for you both as it’s easy to miss these making the round when chatting to guests. If you’re tying the knot at the height of a season i.e summer or winter, let that be your inspiration for your menu. Christmas nuptials can start with a rich homemade chicken liver and calvados pâté, with spiced apple chutney and toasted walnut bread, followed by lamb shanks in a deep port sauce, finished off with a hearty stick toffee pudding; veggies can enjoy pumpkin soup, beetroot and cheese risotto, and a chocolate, peanut butter and avocado pudding. Your chosen caterers can advise what produce is in season, be it asparagus, and create a dish utilising this – it’s also great for your sustainability and eco-credentials which is at the forefront of couples’ choices nowadays. What’s more, ‘farm to fork’ is again something the last year in lockdowns has shown us; where does our food come from? How is it sourced and where is it sourced? Using local suppliers not only supports small independent businesses, but it also cuts down on your carbon footprint so you can have a ‘green’ big day.

Authentic Thai Street Food Why people choose us Fancy a Thai? Give us a try

Luxury Grazing Tables & Platters Tablescape Styling, perfect for any occasion.

Discount on mid-week Weddings

figandfeast@gmail.com figandfeast.co.uk figandfeast FigandFeast 07977 413106

4 THE MEADS, CHELMSFORD, CM2 0GT 07985458924 | contact@fanthaisticks.co.uk | fanthaisticks.co.uk

Based in the heart of Essex We have a variety of complete wedding catering options available, including a two and three-course table service with champagne, BBQ and hog roast catering for outdoor weddings, and buffet catering to keep you and your guests fuelled throughout the evening. We also offer mobile bar hire, so you have all the beverages you need for your wedding. All our formal wedding catering packages come with crockery and cutlery hire.

www.jpskitchen.co.uk james@jpskitchen.co.uk | 07972695338

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Happy Hippie Photography

Fresh sweet and savoury crepes, bubble waffles, grilled cheese sandwiches and ice cream milkshakes, all served from our eye catching retro Rocket van!

Designing and creating creating bespoke and bespoke luxury wedding cakes hand-made wedding cakes

07460866785 | karyn@thetincanteen.co.uk |

www.swcakes.co.uk 07415 07415 728607 728607 • sarah@swcakes.co.uk sarah@swcakes.co.uk ••

We know that this is the most special day for a couple and thats why we pay so much attention to detail for these events. All of our prices include A Full BBQ Set up (either the Oink Rig, or our Barrell Smokers) A chef, waiters, Cutlery & Plates. Our Wedding services are served buffet style, for that authentic BBQ style of good food and socialising, which is why it makes the perfect alternative Wedding meal! OINKBBQ.CO.UK / 01245255572 / FACEBOOK @OINKBBQ

CATERING FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Check out... PREMIER CREW

With more than 50 years’ of collective experience in corporate events and catering, the team at Essex-based Premier Crew draw on their knowledge and skills to execute bespoke events. The dynamic team have worked together for many years which brings a great atmosphere, and is headed up by senior events director, Sarah, who ensures her team remain calm and are engaging and personable, really listening to the wants and needs of each of their clients. The experienced team of chefs is headed up by food and beverage director, Geoff. The team create delicious and bespoke menus in their state-of-the-art kitchen ‒ whether it’s hearty homecooked menus or fine dining, they can turn their hand to anything. Their menus reflect the latest trends and use seasonal and local produce whenever possible. Check out https://premiercrew.events

Couples can use their menu choices to reflect the theme of the day, or their personalities and heritage. If the bride is Greek and the groom is Scottish, why not have a fusion of these two cuisines with a mixture of Scottish-themed canapés and delicious buffet of traditional Greek delicacies. Have you planned your honeymoon in Japan, or adored your family holiday every year in Spain? Why not pick these destinations to set your menu? A Japanese food truck in the evening will be a welcomed treat for guests, while a huge sharing paella will be fitting of an al fresco summer wedding reception ‒ Viva España!

CAKE PLEASE! A ‘micro wedding’ trend that looks set to stay is: mini cakes! Gone was the gathering for the cake cutting, and in came lots of miniature wedding cakes which guests could take home with them! It ensures no wastage, and everyone can enjoy it after the big day – or why not serve it as your dessert course?

Room for more?

SOFA SURF THESE COMPANIES Fan Thai Sticks https://fanthaisticks.co.uk Street food is just a part of the culture in many places in the world, gaining in popularity in the UK, and Fan Thai Sticks is excited to contribute to it bringing authentic Thai street food dishes to the UK public. Expect, salt and crspy squid, Papaya salad, chicken cashew nut, chick satay, pad kra pao, green curry and spring rolls. JPs Kitchen www.jpskitchen.co.uk At JP’s Kitchen, wedding catering goes above and beyond whether you’d prefer a formal sit-down meal or a casual buffet, or both, the team can create a bespoke menu your guests will love. Wedding catering options include a two- and three-course table service with champagne, barbecue and hog roast catering for outdoor weddings, and buffet catering to keep you and your guests fuelled throughout the evening. There’s also mobile bar hire, and formal catering packages come with crockery and cutlery hire. The Tin Canteen www.instagram.com/the_tincanteen This unique and stylish retro Rocket Van serves delicious sweet and savoury crêpes, tempting bubble waffles, grilled cheese sandwiches and indulgent ice cream milkshakes

Fig & Feast www.figandfeast.co.uk Fig & Feast is an Essex-based company that all began from the love of food and bringing people together whether friends or family, business or pleasure. For weddings and other events, if offers tablescape-style grazing allowing guests to casually mingle over drinks and bites as they pick on cured meats, artisan cheeses, locally sourced fresh bread, honeycomb, of course heavenly figs, fresh fruits and other simple but quality foods. Alternatively, you can have a brunch table laden with delicious pastries, cakes, bagels, fresh fruit, yogurt and granola. Served along side fresh cold pressed juices. There’s even a children’s graze option. Oink BBQ https://oinkbbq.co.uk A family friendly barbecue experience, its five-metre long barbecue, The Oink Rig, will always bring the excitement to an event. Its catering is for pretty much any event and with its style of cooking ‘low n slow’, it’s perfect for all ages. All of the prices include a full barbecue set up (either the oink rig, or barrell smokers) a chef, waiters, cutlery and plates. Wedding services are served buffet-style, for that authentic barbecue feel of good food and socialising, which is why it makes the perfect alternative wedding meal!

RETRO BRIDE & VROOMS

VW CAMPERVAN WEDDING HIRE IN ESSEX Are you looking for VW Campervan hire for a wedding in Essex, Kent or London? Looking to hire a VW Camper that is vintage and head turning to deliver you in comfort on your special day? Be original with Retro Bride & Vrooms!

www.retrobrideandvrooms.co.uk 07306 595713 | enquiries@retrobrideandvrooms.co.uk

HOUSE OF COLOUR

Our co your be (Esse Overwhelmed by choice? Finding o Our colour and style services will ensure you look and feel

your best for your special day and beyond. House of Colour (Essex) offers styling services for the whole bridal party. Finding your colours is a revelation and allows you to focus on the colours that enhance your radiant glow.

Cont

Contact our experienced stylists to book a consultation. Prices start from £180. Colour Analysis - Personal Styling - Make Up Claire Bannister claire.bannister@houseofcolour.co.uk Kelly Caira kelly.caira@houseofcolour.co.uk Call 07986 794171

ASK THE EXPERTS

HOT TOPIC: LOOKING AHEAD

Following the last 18 months, how has the wedding industry changed? Our local suppliers, experts in their field, give us the lowdown... CAKES I think the pandemic has changed people’s views on wedding receptions in general; everyone really wants that good party-vibe with plenty of entertainment, food and fun for their guests! It’s been so long for everyone to be able to truly enjoy themselves that now, what better excuse to really go for it, than a wedding?! Couples should consider catering options that offer the food, fun and entertainment factor like we do here at Dessert Club Essex. Our live cooking stations offer crêpes, doughnuts and waffles – your guests are well-fed and entertained at the same time! What better way to please you guests than through their stomachs? And with that in mind, I expect to see more weddings have showstopping cakes, dessert tables and cooking stations with the wow factor, giving guests plenty of indulgent catering options. Stephanie Hawes, dessert and cake maker Dessert Club Essex | www.facebook.com/dessertclubessex

HONEYMOONS Normally from about April/May time we would be making many bookings for honeymoons for the following year, but this year it has only just started picking up now. The Greek Islands have been very popular at the moment, when usually it would be more long-haul destinations. Customers are asking for the quieter islands rather than the popular ones, which must mean they are wanting more peaceful secluded holidays. I’ve also noticed the pandemic has heightened environmental awareness as we’ve seen a rise in eco-conscious customers asking how sustainable the hotels are, whereas pre-pandemic very few would ask these questions. Hopefully, it will be back where it was prepandemic soon as weddings are now going ahead and people are getting more confident in booking holidays again. We have started to see countries such as the Maldives, St Lucia, Antigua and Thailand pick up once more which is very good news. Stefania Cerro, travel counsellor www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/stefania.cerro 99

ENTERTAINMENT After the past 18 months, it seems people were desperate to be back with their loved ones to have a celebration. This has made us feel welcomed every time we’ve recently performed at a wedding, like everyone’s been missing us and the band has come to bring the party. After the pandemic, I expect to see an increase in bookings and weekends filling up quickly as there will be no restrictions and everyone will be ready to celebrate once again. Couples’ priorities have changed and varied as people were affected differently by the pandemic. You have those clients who are now trying to cut down on their band sizes due to change in venues, or perhaps even income, and on the other hand some people are increasing their band size and adding more live music throughout the day for their drinks reception and ceremony. This could be due to increased budgets through saving during lockdown or because the last 18months have made them want to celebrate bigger and better ‒ we’re looking forward to being a part of some amazing parties! We have a very easy online system where clients can start planning their event with us. This means that throughout the pandemic, most clients who postponed had good time to get it all in order. When we do our final call before the event, it’s usually very easy as everything is already prepared for us. This includes music preferences, schedule and logistics. Dessie Poleon, musician, producer Musicians League Ltd, Blue Lion Band www.bluelionband.co.uk

CEREMONIES

Victoria Carson, accessories designer Victoria Charles Headpieces www.victoriacharlesheadpieces.com

https://kristianlevenphotography.co.uk

https://hamishirvine.com

FASHION Obviously the effects of the pandemic had a huge impact on the millinery industry, with many milliners diversifying their businesses and returning to home studios to avoid overheads. Since the return of weddings Victoria Charles Headpieces has seen a huge increase in orders from wedding guests. Traditionally the core business had been mother-of-the-bride and -groom and racing attendees; however, in recent months wedding guests have been opting for more dramatic hats and headpieces. This certainly seems to be a sign of the times, clients are using every opportunity to dress to impress! During the pandemic, I also made masks which have become popular for bridesmaids and the wedding party for those that may still feel cautious even after restrictions have lifted.

There has been a fair degree of positive change for celebrants post-pandemic, and it’s certainly an exciting time for couples and celebrants. The demand for celebrants has increased not only because of the backlog of postponed weddings, but more importantly, couples want to celebrate differently. They really want to share their celebration with family and friends in creative and fun ways, having been through so much and waited so long they really want to go to town on their wedding. Regardless of whether they have previously had their legal registry office ceremony, many want something more special, personalised and to share their vows with as many people as possible. I tend to get requests for more hybrid ceremonies with a mix of modern and traditional aspects, and it’s a pleasure to create something different for each couple. There’s also more of an emphasis of involving family members within the ceremony and, for some, honouring those they have sadly lost. Celebrants solve many new dilemmas caused by the pandemic, for example couples who married abroad pre-covid and had to cancel their UK-based celebration now want a special celebration created just for them, which may or may not involve vows and ring exchanges given the time that has passed from their original date. Some couples who legally married during lockdown in a small ceremony have since had children, so I’m creating a new ceremony which combines a wedding and a baby naming! It’s certainly an exciting time and couples are embracing the flexibility and freedom that ceremonies without limits can give them. I hope that the recent changes in marriage laws continue, so that the government passes legislation supported by the wedding commission, that allows celebrants to perform legal weddings. Amanda Whealant, celebrant Amanda’s Beautiful Ceremonies | www.amandasceremonies.com 100

www.bodiceandbustle.co.uk 01279755507 enquiries@bodiceandbustle.co.uk

07702 143247 | l u x u ry tre a tme n ts @ gm ai l. com

For your free consultation contact Elisha: M: 07989 474958 E: info@elishasfloraldesign.co.uk

www.jademur p hy hair an dbe au t y .c o .u k

www.elishasfloraldesign.co.uk Pilgrims Hatch, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9PU

Maidens Barn

Celebrate your perfect wedding day in a charming, rural setting

Maidens Barn, Essex offers an authentic wedding barn and garden venue that epitomises rural simplicity and yet also offers all the luxurious modern features and style you would expect from a ﬁrst-class venue. We are a family run business with a small hands-on team that are dedicated to ensuring an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

01245 231363

To arrange a viewing please don’t hesitate to get in touch!! MAIDENS BARN

HIGH EASTER

www.weddingbarnessex.co.uk |

CHELMSFORD

ESSEX

CM3 1HU

Artisan floristry with no boundaries Bridal Flowers | Venue Decor | FREE Consultations

Vintage

Wedding THE

LARGEST CAR COMPANY IN ESSEX

CHOOSE FROM OUR EXQUISITE SELECTION OF 20 VINTAGE & CLASSIC CARS FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY. We are a long-established professional wedding car hire company based in Essex. Our privately-owned collection of twenty authentic vintage and classic cars has been built up over many years and contains some extremely rare vehicles. In addition to the main Bridal cars we can offer a wide choice of wedding transport for the Bridesmaids’ party.

Call 01268 552562 or email info@arrowvintagecars.co.uk

www.arrowvintagecars.co.uk

AN ELEG

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F O L LO W U S

Va Va Vroom

Tips and advice for choosing your big-day wheels

erhaps choosing your big-day transport won’t be above the priority of finding your dream wedding venue, flowers, dress or honeymoon, however, as it’s the key factor in the one-the-day proceedings – getting you to and from your desired locations – it really should be high up on the agenda. After all, the ceremony can’t start until you’re there to say ‘I do’!.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Once the wedding venue has been chosen, then all the finer details can follow. For rustic settings, such as barns and teepees in fields, a classic Rolls Royce may look a little out of place. You can be inspired by your surroundings and choose your transport accordingly; opt for a Land Rover, or a retro VW Campervan ‒ a great choice for al fresco bohothemed days and will look super-cool in the photos giving that ‘70s-vibe. If you’ve decided you want a classic country house mansion for your big-day venue, then a classic vintage car will epitomise the feel of the day. However, as beautiful as these cars are, they’re vintage for a reason, so check with your chosen supplier that the distance to the venue and its setting is suitable for your classic ride. 104

If choosing a fleet of cars for your bridal party, plan with the venue that driveways are kept clear and that there’s plenty of room for each car to arrive simultaneously. Does your venue have an area where the cars can wait between the ceremony and reception? Is there a picture-perfect spot for the all-important bridal portraits with the car? When it comes to location, if your ceremony venue and reception venue are not the same, have you factored in transporting your guests from one to the other? Have both venues’ locations been given out in the invites for people to plan their route in advance? If you’re tying the knot in the city, or busy town, are there parking restrictions? It’s worth giving guests a list of taxi numbers in the surrounding area so that they are well prepared ahead of the day.

MAKE IT PERSONAL

TRANSPORT

Your wedding day transport can be another aspect of the wedding that you utilise to reflect your personalities. If you’re music-loving Rockabillies think about a Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Skyliner or Cadillac Coupe deVille. Movie fans? Then go-all out with a James Bond-syle Aston Martin, or John Wick’s Mustang. There’s a whole host of movies to be inspired by so if you need an idea, arrange a date night and get watching! Two of our real wedding brides really went for the personal touch, over on page 35 Natalie and John have a lovely story of how their neighbour came to the rescue and helped them out in a vintage car aptly in red – which perfectly matched their colour scheme; while over on page 51, Caroline and Gary’s ‘60s/ Beatles-themed day was complete with a vintage bus and 1967 Rolls Royce Phantom John Lennon Psychedelic Rolls.

CHECK LIST ♥ Safety – always work with a reputable supplier who can look after the insurance and safety guidance for you! Some vintage cars don’t have seat belts – great for not creasing the dress but not great for little ones travelling with you. ♥ Extras – having your favourite bottle of bubbles, music of your favourite songs, colour matching ribbons etc are all ways to personalise your vehicle. Check what the supplier can and can not supply and whether you are allowed to BYOB? ♥ Space – how many adults are travelling? Who’s sharing with who? If there’s a change over, i.e the wedding couple come back in the car the bridesmaids were in, then don’t forget to arrange alternative transport for the bridesmaids to get to the second venue – you can’t leave them at the church! ♥ Backup – this is where hiring a professional company will be worth it’s weight in gold as they will have more than one car and chauffeur in the event of unforeseen circumstances! Yes taking your friend up on the offer of driving you is a nice idea, but you don’t want that stress on the day if they can’t do it, the car’s broken down or they now have Covid! ♥ Plan – check out routes, are there road works, allow time for running late and hold-ups, yes your car hire company will do this, but will your guests? Remind them!

Spotlight on....

RETRO BRIDE & VROOMS A family run business, Retro Bride & Vrooms was started late 2020 by Michelle and Marc Narbrough. Franky is a 1964 VW Splitscreen Campervan, with front opening safari window, it’s been lovingly restored inside and out with purely weddings in mind. With a seating capacity of seven he comes chauffeur driven with flowers, bows and ribbon to match your colour scheme and a bottle of bubbles kept cold in a built in ice bucket! There’s also Doris, a 2009 Mini Cooper convertible in a complementing colour, just in case you have a larger party and need some extra seats! Check out https://retrobrideandvrooms.co.uk

YOUR A-Z OF LOCAL SUPPLIERS Anglian Wedding Solutions | www.weddingcarscolchester.com Arrow Vintage Cars | www.arrowvintagecars.co.uk DipDubs Wedding Campervan Hire | www.dipdubs.com East Coast Classics | www.eastcoast-classics.co.uk Essex County Cadillacs | www.essexcountycadillacs.co.uk Klarners Executive Travel | www.klarnerscoaches.co.uk Lewis Car Hire | www.lewiscarhire.co.uk Retro Bride & Vrooms | https://retrobrideandvrooms.co.uk Vdub Rides | www.vdubrides.co.uk 105

U NIT 2 M O RRIS O NS SU PE R ST O R E , NO R THW IC K R O A D, CANVE Y I SL A N D, ES SE X , SS8 0 PS

01268 698400 DEL.TAIL O R S@TA L K 2 1 . C OM WWW.D E L TA I L O R S. C O . U K S E E WEBSITE F O R O PE N ING H O U R S

GROOMS’ NEWS

It ’s all about meee

KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF

For really special wedding gifts, The Sock Butler – sister company to Sockshop – provides a delivery of new socks every month straight to your door! The service offers a choice of one, two or three pairs per month and the opportunity to select from different categories e.g. Classic, Fashion, Sporty and Fun. Ideal for updating sock drawers, subscriptions gifts available include one month, six or 12. Brands include Glenmuir, Pringle, SockShop, WildFeet and Jeff Banks and all the socks in the subscription sock boxes are either cotton or bamboo-based for a luxury feel. For an extra special touch, there is an option to personalise your socks with embroidered initials – perfect for the big day and beyond! Check out https://thesockbutler.co.uk

Wedding planning, especially after the last year, can be a stressful experience and if you’re feeling overwhelmed check out this new series of books: Meee in a minute. Meee in a minute offers 60 ways to improve your life in 60 seconds with a collection of life hacks, advice, insights, science, stories, short exercises, quotes and more that can help you improve your life. The Family edition is a book bursting with useful tips and strategies to appreciate, engage with, enjoy, connect and reconnect with your family – essential for your wedding planning and marriage journey. Each book is £8 including delivery, visit: www.meeebooks.com

Grooms’ NEWS All the latest best buys and product launches

SCOTTISH FLARE

Isle of Harris Distillery has launched made to order jackets in collaboration with renowned Scottish designer Judy R Clark. Isle of Harris Distillery along with, Harris Tweed Hebrides, the Harris Tweed Authority and the islands’ education services, worked closely with schools across the island to challenge the children to design a new Isle of Harris Distillery tweed whilst learning more about the history of tweed cloth. The winner of the competition was 14-year-old Scott Murray from Sir E. Scott School in the Isle of Harris. Scott’s winning design was woven in consultation with Judy R Clark to create this unique special cloth. Each jacket is made using specially woven Isle of Harris Distillery Harris Tweed combined with luxurious teal velvet collars embroidered in with rose gold threads. The linings are inspired by the Hebridean seas finished with rose copper buttons and contrasting sea-blue buttonholes. Priced £660 (includes UK postage), visit https://harrisdistillery.com

FROM THE ART

SENTIMENTAL ACCESSORIES

Merci Maman has unveiled its new Men’s Collection! The new seven piece collection features four bracelets and three necklaces, popular favourites include the Personalised Dog Tag Necklace (£89), and the Unity Bracelet (£89). The collection also introduces new leather styles for the first time and seven new gem stones, including tiger’s eye and aquamarine. Each piece is available in 925 sterling silver or 18k gold plated, and can be complimentary hand-engraved with special names, dates or messages making the collection perfect for big-day gifting. Check out www.mercimamanboutique.com

Desenio helps you find the perfect gift for every groom’s party member; from the office and the home to personalised prints, find something for every personality. Perfect for weddings, personalising your print with names, dates and places offers that extra special touch. If you can’t find the words to explain how you feel, quotation art prints are a beautiful way to express love, gratitude, or humour towards those you love most. Alternatively, choose from sports or music icons, or if you’re not sure which prints would suit their taste best, or if you’re short on time with last-minute wedding planning, Desenio Gift Cards are a great choice! Check out https://desenio.co.uk 107

h s i t i r B BEST OF

From Royal Ascot to The Crown, there’s a lot to be inspired by when keeping your big-day look classically British

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www.next.co.uk

Cashmere Scarf Light Grey, £145, https://heating-and-plumbing.com

GROOMS’ FASHION

Black Leather Belt ‘Nieto’, £55, www.pampeano.co.uk

Pocket Watch, £129, https://shop.westminster-abbey.org

Highland Pocket Square, £38, https://roryhutton.co.uk Classic Collar Marcella Bib Tuxedo Shirt, £59.95, www.ctshirts.com/uk Italian Luxury Twill Navy Jacket, £299.95, www.ctshirts.com/uk

Silk Face Mask Navy, £30, www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

Silver Fleur de Lys Cufflink, £89, https://shop.westminster-abbey.org

Fleur de Lys navy silk tie, £35, https://foxandchave.com

Ted Baker ‘Derby’, £100, www.shoeaholics.com 109

WIN

A MINIMOON IN PROVENCE, FRANCE WORTH UP TO £1,500

rillon Le Brave is nestled within a village eponymous of the Vaucluse region, and offers guests the chance to explore the picture-perfect Provençal countryside, historical nearby towns, and is just a stone’s throw away from some of the most sought-after vineyards in France. The hotel boasts 34 newly refurbished rooms and suites, an inviting reception area, gorgeous public spaces and idyllic outdoor pool overlooking surrounding vineyards and countryside. The hotel has been exquisitely presented with the help of French designer and decorator Charles Zana. Since it’s reopening in May 2021, the hotel has introduced a number of new experiences, a new yoga retreat as well as a refreshed culinary offering from new head chef Adrien Brunet ‒ who will be presenting new menus with locally sourced delicacies. The Spa des Ecuries is positioned

PRIZE: County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Maisons Pariente to offer two nights at Crillon Le Brave, Provence. The prize includes breakfasts, an aperitif at the bar and an in-room VIP welcome.

under imposing arches of the former vaulted stone stables from the 18th century. With three treatment rooms, including one double, the spa combines gentle and effective approaches dedicated to enhancing overall wellbeing. Guests can take advantage of the holistic treatment techniques of Bamford which are completely tailored to each guest’s needs. Crillon le Brave encourages guests to switch off and enjoy the art of taking things slow: amble around the village, lounge by the pool, rejuvenate in the spa and indulge in exquisite food. For those looking to explore the region’s rich culture and enjoy a quiet French escape, this five-star hotel is the perfect destination for a postpandemic home away from home holiday and honeymoon. Visit www.crillonlebrave.com, email reservations@crillonlebrave.com or call + 33 4 90 65 61 61.

HOW TO ENTER: For your chance to win, simply answer the following question: What is the name of the new head chef? Enter online at anessex.wedding

Closing date 3rd December 2021, unless otherwise stated. Terms and Conditions apply. Please see our website for details. 110

For further wed-spiration and to keep up to date with the latest news and trends check out our County Wedding Magazines’ Instagram, Facebook and Twitter pages

@cwm_wedding

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County Wedding Magazines

What’s more, our editors are on hand to help brides-to-be with all their planning problems: • Ask us anything, whether you’re on the hunt for a local venue or simply looking for ideas and advice • Find local suppliers • Top planning tips from the pros • Tell us about your big day for your chance to appear in the magazine • Special subscription offers • Win wedding essentials with our exclusive giveaways and competitions

News

HONEYMOON Idyllic destinations for when you can hop, skip and jump on to a plane again, along with some UK beauties for the ultimate staycation...

HOME SCOTTISH BORDERS

A stunning rural hideaway set in Minto in the Scottish Borders, Lilylaw, newly launched with Crabtree & Crabtree, provides the most idyllic location for a romantic honeymoon. It boasts spectacular views and staying guests also get unique access to Fatlips Castle, an iconic Pele tower situated on the estate at the top of Minto Crags. Located on a private track, this former gamekeeper’s cottage is in an undisturbed and completely serene spot, ideal for those looking to escape to the countryside. The charming period property has been fully renovated into a gorgeous, romantic one-bedroom bijoux bolthole comprising an open-plan bedroom and living area and feature roll top bath with woodland views. Based on a self-catering basis, seven nights in summer available through Crabtree & Crabtree is from £950. To book, visit www.crabtreeandcrabtree.com or call 01573 226 711.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

The Torridon invites newlyweds to reconnect during a minimoon experience in the Scottish Highlands. During the Winter Minimoon experience, newlyweds can enjoy the snowcapped landscapes and starry night skies of the Highlands, feasting on the best seasonal produce and rejoicing in two nights of rejuvenating sleep. Led by the Torridon Outdoors experts, a crisp full day guided walk along the munros and woodlands surrounding the hotel, is followed by drinks in front of the crackling fire and a private whisky tasting led by the dedicated team in The Torridon’s Whisky Bar. Couples can indulge in a four-course set menu crafted by head chef Paul Green. Set in the 1887 Restaurant it will pair dishes sourced from the region’s best winter ingredients and local game from The Torridon Estate with exquisite wines. Lovebirds can add a bespoke star-gazing experience to their minimoon package, and join astronomer Stephen Mackintosh for a three-course meal and an excursion across the Highlands, revealing a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Arcturus constellation. A Winter Minimoon complete with: two-night B&B in a Deluxe room, tasting menu, whisky tasting, full day guided walk, champagne, chocolates and flowers is £1,520. Add the Star-gazing Experience between Nov-Mar for an additional £530, including a three-course dinner with astronomer Stephen Mackintosh. Find out more about The Torridon at www.thetorridon.com or call on 01445 791 242.

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CHANNEL ISLANDS

The Blonde Hedgehog, located in Alderney, is a collection of 18th-century buildings lovingly restored to be a petite boutique Georgian retreat. Renovated from a local pub and an elegant townhouse, it’s understated luxury at its best; the modern interior design complements the original Georgian features. With just a small number of rooms and suites, it’s intimate and sophisticated without losing any of its charm. Alderney is perfect for honeymooners looking for relaxation, romance and adventure; an island for exploring and seeing nature’s wonders, couples can experience sea kayaking, boat trips, rockpooling and fishing. It’s easily walked or cycled around in a day – definitely one of the best ways to see the entire island. Available through Fish&Pips from £230 per night on a B&B basis, visit www.fishandpips.co.uk or call 01306 264 005.

HONEYMOON NEWS

AWAY GREECE

Costa Navarino, the ultimate five-star sustainability-led travel destination in Messinia on the under-the-radar Peloponnese peninsula in Greece, is an idyllic location for honeymoons. Perched on the unspoiled and breathtaking coastline, overlooking the Ionian Sea, it provides newlyweds with the perfect romantic shorthaul destination post-vows. A sophisticated setting, surrounded by verdant land and a sparkling seascape, Messinia has quaint town halls, beautiful beaches and offers hilltop exploration. Costa Navarino is one of the few beachfront mixed-use developments in the Mediterranean and includes: luxury hotels, freehold residences, a world-famous Anazoe spa, 21 restaurants and bars, sports facilities and two signature golf courses ‒ meaning guests and newlyweds never have to leave! For more information visit www.costanavarino.com

MAJORCA

Perfect for pre- or post-wedding getaways, Es Racó d’Artà is a wellness retreat that’s recently joined the TemptingPlaces hotel label. A real gem in the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean, this new holistic retreat is located next to the historic town of Artà, on the eastern part of the island. Outstretched in the valley, its nearly 200 acres encompass an authentic 13th-century stone farmhouse, several buildings, almond, fig and olive trees, local fruit trees as well as 14 acres of grapevines. It’s here, within this peaceful environment, that this newly-opened property invites its guests to connect with nature and lift themselves beyond their well-being. Seamless swimming pools, jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, relaxation and meditation areas offer newlyweds a unique experience, where the notion of time and space disappears. Make sure to try a Watsu treatment, performed in the original treatment pool – this aquatic massage creates optimal conditions to enter a state of deep relaxation through the union of water and shiatsu, aiming to release the everyday tensions ‒ bliss! Visit www.temptingplaces.com

ITALY

AMERICA

Hotel Bel-Air, possibly one of the most romantic hotels in the world, has launched an outdoor dining experience, Bel-Air Under the Stars. Guests can cosy up beside their own private firepit while sipping wine, toasting marshmallows and tucking into Wolfgang Puck snacks. Many Hollywood love stories have played out at this iconic hotel in its 75-year history, and it’s easy to see why stars including Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly have fallen for its romantic allure. Set within the blissful Canyon landscape, and away from the LA noise, this private and elegant hotel is a haven in Bel-Air and renowned for its 12 acres of winding, tropical greenery surrounding the beloved Swan Lake, filled with flowers that bloom all year round and home to a 100-year-old sycamore tree. It has witnessed some of the most incredible, star-studded and wildly romantic weddings imaginable, all watched over with loving grace by its swans. What’s more, one of the hotel’s most famous guests, Grace Kelly, penned a number of love letters to her then partner Oleg Cassani during her time staying there while she was filming Country Girl. What better honeymoon destination truly epitomises love and romance? Rooms start from $695, visit www.dorchestercollection.com

Room Mate Hotels, the international hotel chain, has opened Hotel Room Mate Filippo and Gran Filippo Apartments in Rome. Located 500 metres from the emblematic Spanish Steps and a ten-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain, the hotel and the apartments are designed by interior designer Tomas Alía, who was inspired by the refined aesthetics of the 1940s. The hotel has 30 rooms divided into three categories: superior, deluxe and executive, its imposing façade stands out with elegant and subtle flat pilasters and striking lighting that creates a chandelier effect throughout the street acting as a magnet to passers-by. The lobby features a forest of sculptural, three-dimensional palm trees, complete with a dome supported by granite columns. The two interior courtyards - the two lungs of the building - are arranged with sienna- and celadon-colored lattices while the rest of the common areas are divided into a large meeting room with a library effect and the breakfast room, decorated with modulations in marble, gilded metals and geometric shapes. The rooms, several of which have terraces, have surprising decorations, all inspired by the refined, well-travelled and cultured aesthetics of the 1940s Check out https://room-matehotels.com/gb/ 113

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An Essex Wedding is just one of our many County Wedding titles − find out more on our website www.county.wedding We love featuring local couples and companies. If you want to get in touch email editor@county.wedding for your chance to grace the pages of next issue

LOCAL GOING x ed in North Esse Where to w

'TIS THE SEASON Venues for winter nuptials

LOOK OUT FOR... HOT OFF THE PRESS! Catch up on all the latest wedding news from around the local areas

DON’T FORGET Check out our website for more wonderful wed-spiration

MARRIAGE MATERIAL Be inspired by local weddings

LET’S GET THE PARTY STARTED Big-day entertainment options

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LING BRIDessAoriLse yBour wedding look

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WEDDINGS at

MARKSHALL ESTATE An indescribably romantic setting for your perfect day

mulled

Markshall Estate is the one you have been looking for...

An Essex Wedding - Issue 100 September/October 2021

Articles inside

COMPETITION

HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN

HONEYMOON NEWS

THE BIG BREAKFAST

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE

IF MUSIC BE THE FOOD OF LOVE... PLAY ON

GOING LOCAL

TWO FOR ONE

FASHION FOCUS

SMALL BUT MIGHTY

SHOWSTOPPERS

NEARLYWED NEWS