Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding - Oct/Nov 2023 (Issue 97)

BRISTOL& SOMERSET

WEDDING

WIN!

Luba Mushtuk

on health and wellbeing

A Yorkshire break worth £1,000

HOT TOPIC

This time it’s personal!

PICTURE PERFECT

What to expect from your wedding photographer

The region’s experts offer advice on planning an intimate wedding

OCT/NOV 2023

SMALL YET MIGHTY

£3.55

ClEARwEll CAStlE CLEARWELL CASTLE

FOREST OF DEAN

info@clearwell-castle.co.uk

01594 832320

GLOUCESTERSHIRE clearwell-castle.co.uk

ST AudRIes PaRK ST. AUDRIES PARK info@audries-park.co.uk

TAUNTON 01984 633633

SOMERSET audries-park.co.uk

Country HousE weddings Exclusively Weddings, Exclusively Yours

www.hannahbarnesphotography.com

24

7 EDITOR’S LETTER

A warm welcome from Kelly

9 NEARLYWED NEWS

This issue’s cover is sponsored by Montigo Resorts, Somerset at Charlton House (www.charltonhouse.com). It was captured by Dave Merritt Creative (www.instagram.com/davemerrittcreative) at the entrance to this beautiful venue on Julie and Alex’s big day.

FEATURES

43 THE MAGIC OF A MEADOW

Catch up on news from around the region

This local team created a floral fantasy at Yalham Hayes’ flower farm in Taunton

13 FREEBIES & OFFERS

47 MODERN PASTELS

Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

60 HOT TOPIC This time it’s personal! Find out how to personalise your wedding

97 COMPETITION Win a romantic break in Yorkshire worth £1,000

VENUES

15 SPOTLIGHT ON...

Guildhall in Bath provided the showstopping backdrop for this romantic shoot

51 PICTURE PERFECT Some of the region’s finest wedding photographers tell us what to expect from the process at every stage of your wedding journey

55 SMALL BUT PERFECTLY FORMED Local experts tells us how to plan a memorable intimate wedding day

Sedgemoor and North Somerset

19 A NEW CHAPTER

64 WISHING HUE A WONDERFUL WEDDING DAY

For a wedding vibe that’s straight out of the pages of a literary epic, check out these local beauties

Check out our wedspirational guide to palette perfection whatever the season

31

www.interlacephotography.co.uk

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023

CONTENTS

REGULARS

On the cover

3

66 FASHION FOCUS

The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches

67 STYLE ALERT Burnt orange, green, and champagne colours are trending for bridesmaids this season

68 ALL DRESSED UP The new season bridal edit of dreamy dresses features delicate details, fairytale-inspired florals and flowing fabrics

73 STANDOUT SLEEVES Make your entrance in style wearing statement sleeves that will take you from day to dancefloor

83 BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems

84 BEAUTY BUZZ

51

88

REAL WEDDINGS 24 SIMPLY ELEGANT

Anna and Mat celebrated their marriage at St Audries Park creating plenty of magical memories along the way

@lubamushtuk

FASHION & BEAUTY

www.wearefound.uk

60

31 SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY Michelle and Paul said “I do” at the breathtaking Leigh Court and added a touch of travel to their styling

37 MODERN LUXURY Hannah and Tom’s wedding was brimming with modern luxury and oh-so chic vibes

55

GROOMS

77 GROOMS’ NEWS

Get the look with the latest must-haves

The latest best buys and product launches

86 BEST FACE FORWARD

78 SOMETHING BLUE

We investigate the much-discussed bridal musthave treatment, HydraFacial

We’ve rounded up some of the latest products for the groom-to-be

88 LADY OF THE DANCE

80 SKIN DEEP

Strictly’s Luba Mushtuk talks health, wellbeing and the all-important first dance

WarPaint For Men shares its make-up and skincare tips for grooms-to-be

43 HONEYMOONS 90 HONEYMOON NEWS

Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials

92 RURAL ROMANCE

www.petiterosecaptures.co.uk

Discover the delights of Provence at Hôtel Crillon le Brave

4

94 MAGICAL MAURITIUS Explore this year-round honeymoon hotspot for a taste of the local cuisine, lush scenery and sustainable hotel choices

96 TOTAL BODY BLISS Experience a weekend of wellness and total body bliss at Warwickshire’s Ardencote Spa

Cornwall, a county of beauty and magic; a place of wedding dreams.

My Cornwall Wedding: Officially Yours - the only source of bespoke, legal, celebrant-led civil weddings in Cornwall.

www.cornwall.gov.uk/weddings | 0300 1234 181 | @MyCornwallWedding Image Credit: Thomas Frost Photography

Timeless Documentary Style Wedding Photography Based in Somerset www.calumbradleyphotography.co.uk | calumjbradley@gmail.com 07889 669 529 |

Scan Me

EDITOR’S LETTER

ADVERTISING Account Manager Lorraine Whitehead | 01376 535 607 lorraine.whitehead@county.wedding

Autumnal creations Y

es, I successfully survived the summer – hurrah! To be fair, I don’t know if we can even describe the last few months as summer, but never mind, it suited me down to the ground! Now, here we are in autumn already. This season is growing enormously in popularity for weddings and is one of my favourites as I love to see couples getting super-creative with their themes and colour palettes. Think rich jewel tones, which are stunning on their own or used with pastels as an accent colour. Rust is huge at the moment. Oh-so modern, it comes into its own during the autumn months. More so than any other season, autumn immediately conjures up associated colours typified by nature at this time of year, such as the reds and oranges of turning leaves.

It’s also ideal timing if you fancy something a bit quirky. With Halloween on the horizon, add plenty of pumpkins to your styling. What about carving your own romantic scenes into them to represent your unique love story and using as illuminated centrepieces? Gothic and enchanted forest vibes also work particularly well at this time of year.

What’s more, the much-loved rustic feel really comes into it’s own when given a harvest-time twist.

September and October are also awash with wedding fairs, so as well as being a lush time to get married, it’s the ideal time to flesh out your vision with supplier soul mates!

This issue we’ve got the usual blend of stunning real weddings and local shoots for you, offering a whole heap of wedspiration. Meanwhile, the county’s photographers give us the benefit of their wisdom and we take a peek into the world of intimate weddings. So, as ever, enjoy and keeeep planning!

EDITORIAL Deputy Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | 01376 535 611 kelly.andrews@county.wedding

Kelly x

WIN !

Kelly Andrews, editor DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding

Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com

Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Events & Publishing Ltd. 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. Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding is published six times a year.

ISSN 1755-4756

cwe C O U N T Y WEDDING E V E N T S

37 PICTURE PERFECT I’m obsessed with Tom and Hannah’s couple shots. They’re so full of fun as well as elegance.

www.petiterosecaptures.co.uk

@countyweddingmagazines

www.hannahbarnesphotography.com

@CountyWeddings

24 STAR OF THE SHOW This shot of bride Anna and her gorgeous little daughter really melts the heart. The young lady, age five, performed a word-perfect reading during her parents’ ceremony after just one practice.

www.simonandkianaphotography.com

@CountyWeddingMagazines

97 WIN! A romantic break in Yorkshire worth £1,000

43 SWEET SUCCESS The theme for this local shoot was inspired by a meadow. Its big-day bake by Claire Hansen Cakes, decorated with flowers grown at Yalham Hayes’ flower farm, fits in beautifully and is quite the showstopper.

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P E N T H O USE C O C K T A I L S

A unique, bridal-themed cocktail box based on the traditional rhyme. Ideal for hen-dos, bridesmaid gifts and wedding presents!

www.penthousecocktails.co.uk

Authentic Valencian Paella

A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE AT YOUR WEDDING Surprise your guests with the taste of Spain.

We’re five-star caterers cooking the tastiest paellas using high-quality ingredients.

We’re self-sufficient and discreet meanwhile cooking delightfully for you.

07719 958237

www.paellacaluciano.com

@paella_caluciano

LOCAL NEWS Mud + Bloom is an independent, small but perfectly-formed brand creating products that aim to connect children aged three to eight years old with nature. Best of all, the company’s products are ethically sourced, reusable or recyclable and hand-packed in Bristol, UK. These little bags of fun are great to give to flowergirls and pageboys, or even to keep other young guests at your wedding entertained. One, two or four activity party bags are priced from £3.95 with free postage. Each of the pre-filled, nature-inspired, eco-friendly party bags contain seasonal gardening and craft activities. Mud + Bloom’s autumn-themed party bags are now available.

Find out more at www.mudandbloom.com/party-bags

http://ruthjoyphotography.com

BACK TO NATURE

d e w y l r a e N

NEWS

Getty Images

Catch up the latest from around the region

WHAT’S IN STORE? Rookery Bridal has been hard at work over the last few months improving its social media, looking at new ways to help its brides and boosting the experience it offers when you visit.

The team will also be attending two big wedding fairs this October: The UWE Wedding Fair and The Big Southwest Wedding Fair. Owner Sarah Hackett says, “We’re going to be busy bees looking after you all in the boutique and meeting you all outside of it!”

It’s that gown ordering time of year at the boutique too, so do keep an eye out for lots of new dresses arriving over the coming months. “We will be recruiting as well,” Sarah continues. “Being so busy means we have a need for more lovely staff to join us and we are looking forward to finding new team members for the Rookery Bridal family.”

Check out www.rookerybridal.co.uk

ART OF THE CITY The UK is brimming with creativity, inspiration, arts and innovation but Bristol has been named the number one must-see for creative types. Aura Print (https://aura-print.com/uk) ranked the most creative and artistic UK cities, taking into the account the number of art galleries, museums, theatres, comedy clubs, and street art, as well as the top universities for art and design courses and this was the conclusion they reached. So, if you’re looking for a city that’s thriving with culture, arts and creativity, look no further than our beloved Bristol.

Bristol is one of the leading UK cities for street art, boasting more than 153k Instagram posts capturing the colourful streets of the city. With sites and events such as The Mild Mild West, an early Banksy mural, to Upfest, Europe’s largest street art and graffiti festival, you’ll never be short of a perfect culture moment to shower you with inspiration, or of a memorable wedding-day photo backdrop. The vibrant streets of Bristol are not the only spots for creatives to take in the local artistry, there’s also 27 art galleries, 15 theatres and eight comedy clubs to immerse yourself in.

With all of the showstopping real weddings and shoots we get to feature in Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding, we reckon the creative flair of the city has rubbed off on its couples and talented wedding suppliers!

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NAILED IT!

CHEERS!

Townhouse, the ultimate destination for luxurious nail care, has recently opened Townhouse Clifton. This signifies an important milestone for the brand as it doubles its presence in Bristol, alongside Townhouse Cribbs Causeway, located in H Beauty at The Mall.

The new salon nestled in the heart of Clifton, just a short stroll from The Ivy Clifton, brings Townhouse’s industry-leading technology, chic interiors, and impeccable manicures and pedicures to the area. With a loyal following that includes Grammy award-winning singers and leading cast members from popular TV shows like Game of Thrones, Sex and the City, and Made in Chelsea, the new branch is set to become the go-to destination for celebrity-worthy nail treatments.

The treatment menu ranges from quick express treatments starting at £30 for customers on the go, to ultra-indulgent experiences for a more luxurious touch worthy of your big day. Customers can also maintain radiant nails with the Townhouse Cuticle Oil, available for £7 including unlimited top-ups at the sustainable Cuticle Oil Refill Station.

To find out more and book your treatment visit www.townhouse.co.uk

Penthouse Cocktails recently celebrated its first birthday and has released an all-new Bridal Cocktail Box to celebrate. Containing four cocktails, it’s inspired by the traditional rhyme something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.

Each box contains pre-mixed ingredients to make the cocktails, with bridal-themed garnishes and instruction cards. All you need are glasses, ice and a shaker. Each one is bar-quality and includes gin, tequila, vodka and rum, as well as amazing flavours such as cucumber and watermelon, coconut and chocolate.

Ideal for spicing up a hen-do or as a quirky wedding gift. Instead of popping open the wine with your girls on the night before the big day, why not make it a memorable night with themed cocktails?

Find out more at www.penthousecocktails.co.uk

REST THOSE PARTY FEET If you’re looking for somewhere for guests in town for your wedding to stay, we have the place for you! Introducing Bristol’s newest pub with rooms, Hort’s Townhouse. Located in the heart of the city and a short walk from Bristol’s bustling shopping district, it reopens following an extensive refurbishment. Located on Broad Street, this stunning Grade II listed Young’s pub has been beautifully redesigned into a glorious townhouse, serving up a menu that champions British produce, craft beers and cask ales, while upstairs you’ll find 19 boutique bedrooms.

No two rooms are quite the same, from the cosy (perfect for a snug stay) to the loft (for something a little different). Some boast expansive windows and high ceilings, others feature quirky corners and separate free-standing bathtubs, but all come complete with an uber-comfy Hypnos bed, a rainfall shower, carefully curated mini bar stocked to the brim with treats and tipples, and a Nespresso coffee machine. With interconnecting rooms, sofa beds and space for cots, there’s somewhere for everyone to stay from wedding party guests and couple retreats, to families and groups. Plus, there are some dog-friendly rooms available, so no one gets left behind!

Find out more at www.hortstownhousebristol.co.uk 10

BON APPÉTIT The Francis Hotel in Bath has launched a new menu with a French twist, curated by new head chef Cyril Royer. Hotel guests and local residents are invited to travel to France on a plate with Boho Marché’s new menus, which are a true celebration of the restaurant’s varied culinary inspirations. Originally from Limoges, Cyril has created a selection of dishes that combine classic French cuisine with a gourmet twist.

The new menu includes French favourites such as moule-frites, confit of duck cassoulet and côte de boeuf to share, as well as delicious options such as slow roasted cauliflower steak and beetroot tarte tatin. For starters, guests will be stuck for choice with delicious offerings including lamb rossini, twice-baked cheese souffle and crab rémoulade. A meal isn’t complete without dessert, and the new Boho Marché menus offer tempting options such as chocolate fondant or St Honoré, with caramel diplomat cream.

Head chef Cyril brings his culinary skills to The Francis Hotel’s kitchen in the centre of regency Bath with more than 14 years of experience as a head chef.

This includes a myriad of fine-dining establishments such as The Corran Resort & Spa and Gravetye Manor, which holds a Michelin Star.

Discover more at https://francishotel.com

Orchardleigh House Exclusive Three Day Wedding packages Tailored to you, for the unforgettable day you say 'I Do' www.orchardleigh.net Tel: 01373472550 Email: Info@Orchardleigh.net Orchardleigh Estate, Frome, BA11 2PB

Orchardleigh House Three day Bonita package includes Castle stay the night before your wedding for up to 12 including hot tub. Murtry Lodge for your partner sleeping up to 6. Exclusive use of Victorian mansion and grounds, Exquisite Wedding breakfast, unlimited reception and wedding breakfast drinks, late license - drink and dance until dawn, 41 opulent rooms sleeping up to 95 for your guests, Newlywed retreat at the lakeside palladium Boathouse with hot tub for the night after. Package prices from £8,699.

HAPPY,

FUN, BOLD & COLOURFUL

PHOTOGRAPHY FOR THE FUN SEEKERS & UNCONVENTIONAL ROMANTICS

BESPOKE WEDDING SIGNAGE ENQUIRE VIA OUR WEBSITE FOR REMAINING 2023 & 2024 AVAILABILITY

WWW.URBANFRAME.CO.UK @URBANFRAME_

www.carmelteresamccabe.co.uk carmelmccabephotography@gmail.com

INSTAGRAM: @carmelteresaphoto FACEBOOK: @carmelmccabephotography

Hummingbird Events are wedding and event planners based in Bristol.

We provide a personalised and stress-free approach to wedding and events planning. With a variety of packages to choose from, we strive to alleviate any worries or stress that can come with planning a milestone event! We take pride in collaborating with you to plan the wedding of your dreams. We also offer an On the day Coordination service for those needing an extra pair of hands to make sure your wedding goes without a hitch!

www.hummingbirdevents.co.uk

07778680032 | chatter@hummingbirdevents.co.uk

BOND STREET

•

BRISTOL

•

U N I Q U E A N D ST U N N I N G T I P I H I R E for weddings and events in the Cotswolds and throughout the UK.

W W W. F I R E F LO W E R T I P I S . C O M Hello@fireflowertipis.com | 07814684424

BS1 3LU

Top designers including: Bianco Evento • LQ Designs • Angela Bianca

We also stock: Jumpsuits • Bridal accessories • Shoes • Tiaras Veils • Biker Jackets • Bow ties • Pocket squares and cufflinks Jacqueline Louise Multiway dresses for bridesmaids and prom dresses.

Bridal sizes from size 6 to 24 plus off-the-peg and orderable sizes.

W W W. J U S T F O R Y O U B R I D A L . C O . U K 0117 3293759

•

info@justforyoubridal.co.uk

Images: Isobel Buxton Photography

Lilly • Kotapska • Monica Loretti • Allure • Grace Harrington.

FREEBIES & OFFERS

Freebies & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

FIT FOR A QUEEN

Inspired by organic shapes and capturing fluid elements in motion, Lucy Quartermaine creates stunning jewellery from remarkable designs that will transform your bridal style. Originally produced to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, the Royal Pearl collection complements 925 silver with freshwater pearls for a timeless design perfect for a wedding day.

Visit https://lucyqdesigns.co.uk County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Lucy Quartermaine to give readers the chance to win a three-piece set of Royal Pearl pieces worth £237. For your chance to win enter via our website, www.yourbristolsomerset.wedding

WIN PERSONALISED BRACELETS

Are you dreaming of making your special day even more memorable for your beloved bridesmaids?

Look no further! We have an exciting opportunity for you to win personalised bracelets for each of your bridesmaids, courtesy of Merci Maman.

Merci Maman understand the importance of thoughtful and meaningful gifts, especially when it comes to your bridesmaids. Its handcrafted Personalised Pastille Chain Bracelet is a bestseller, a timeless and beloved piece testament to the elegance and charm that the brand’s jewellery carries. Crafted with love and attention to detail, these bracelets will serve as treasured keepsakes for your bridesmaids, a symbol of your lasting friendship and gratitude.

Visit www.mercimamanboutique.com/en County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Merci Maman to give readers the chance to win two personalised pastille chain bracelets worth £237.

For your chance to win enter via our website, www.yourbristolsomerset.wedding 13

Yarlington Barn

Unique & Exclusive

M O D E R N, R E L A X E D, EDITORIAL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY for adventurous couples

A stunning lakeside barn in the heart of Somerset www.yarlingtonbarn.co.uk

Arnos Vale Arnos Vale Arnos Vale Arnos Vale Cemetery Cemetery Cemetery Cemetery BATH ROAD, BRISTOL BS4 3EW

Step into 45 acres of magical Step into 45 45 acres ofof magical Step into acres magical woodland in the heart of Bristol woodland the heart ofof Bristol woodland in the heart Bristol Step into 45inacres of magical woodland

in the heart Bristol.

Mix and match ourofthree unique Mix and match our three unique Mix and match three unique venues for yourour ceremony, Mix and match our three unique venues venues for your ceremony, venues forbreakfast your ceremony, wedding or evening for your ceremony, wedding breakfast wedding breakfast or evening wedding breakfast or evening celebrations and evening celebrations. celebrations celebrations For more information and to book

an appointment to view to our venues, To arrange an appointment view our venues To arrange anscan appointment to view our venues please the QR code please email bookings@arnosvale.org.uk To arrange an appointment to view our venues please email bookings@arnosvale.org.uk please email bookings@arnosvale.org.uk www.arnosvale.org.uk/weddings www.arnosvale.org.uk/weddings www.arnosvale.org.uk/weddings www.arnosvale.org.uk/weddings

bozena@lerayimages.com @bolerayphotography

W W W. L E R A Y I M A G E S. C O M

LOCAL VENUES

Spotlight on...

SEDGEMOOR AND NORTH SOMERSET Tie the knot in a local hotspot

YARLINGTON BARN 07871 368 819 | www.yarlingtonbarn.co.uk

www.nickwilliamsphotographer.co.uk

www.nickwilliamsphotographer.co.uk

Set in the heart of rural Somerset, Yarlington Barn is a gorgeous, familyrun wedding venue located on a cider farm. This wonderful lakeside venue with a woodland backdrop and gorgeous rose-clad gazebo is the most beautiful spot for breathtaking wedding day photographs. Be it the frost of winter, the apple blossom of spring, the smell of cut grass in the summer or the colours of autumn, Yarlington Barn is an oh-so romantic and exclusive venue for all seasons.

Inside the rustic barn, exposed beams and wrought iron chandeliers

create a touch of countryside magic, while the unusual barrel bar reflects its heritage as a cider farm.

The Barn is fully licensed for civil ceremonies, so from beginning to end you can host your perfect day right here. The Ceremony Room can seat up to 80 loved ones for the “I dos.”

The main function space, the Lakeview Room, can seat up to 80 for a formal seated wedding breakfast at round tables of eight or 10. It has a fully-stocked bar and being a cider farm the team can certainly provide you with plenty of Somerset’s favourite tipple!

For the evening revelries, the venue can accommodate up to 160 guests for a hog roast or buffet with a disco and dancing.

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www.capturedbykatrina.co.uk

GREENWAY FARM 01278 425 853 | www.lifeatgreenway.com Greenway Farm is a charming, rustic venue situated within easy reach of Bridgwater, Taunton and junctions 23 and 24 of the M5. Family run, it particularly lends itself to smaller weddings and receptions with the option of a converted barn setting or marquee. Owners Martin and Sue are on hand throughout to help with the planning, for which nothing is too much trouble. Couples especially enjoy the relaxed, friendly yet attentive service offered, while enjoying the lovely surroundings and delightful animals.

Set in eight acres of mixed pasture and paddocks, Greenway’s peaceful and relaxed countryside vibe belies its well-linked location. With extensive lawns to the front and orchards to the rear, there are myriad photo and entertainment possibilities here.

Say “I do” in the main barn as 80 of your nearest and dearest look

on. A converted cart barn, this room, with its tall ceilings and exposed wooden beams, boasts an eclectic décor full of antiquities and vintage bric-a-brac. It seats up to 80 with ease, but is equally suitable for smaller ceremonies, with a hugely attractive conservatory to the side, and a cosy snug to the rear, both of which lead out onto attractive patio areas with seating. It can host 60 for your reception.

Separate from the main barn, the stone stable holds up to 45 and leads out onto a patio with an attractive wildlife pond alongside it and an orchard view. It has an adjoining bar and, for marquee receptions, it forms the location for evening music and dancing.

Erected next to the stone stable and fully-stocked bespoke wedding bar, the marquee is available for larger receptions. It comes fully lined, with carpets, chandeliers, a pea light ceiling and uplighters, leaving you with endless possibilities to work your magic on the rest of the décor.

There’s room here for 100 of your nearest and dearest.

NAILSEA TITHE BARN 01275 855 277 | www.nailseatithebarn.co.uk Nailsea Tithe Barn is a characterful 15th-century wedding venue licensed for civil marriage ceremonies nestled in the quiet west end of Nailsea.

Thought to date from 1480, it was built for use by a hamlet of 28 subsistence farmers in the area recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.

Having been a school for more than 200 years, established by poet, playwright, educator and anti-slavery campaigner Hannah More for children of impoverished families in the 18th century, it has now been fully restored to its Medieval origins.

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The Barn has many special features contributing to its overall charm such as impressive high-vaulted ceilings, exposed timber frames, soft grey stone, and hidden owl holes, along with all the modern facilities you could need.

Ceremonies take place in the Tithe Hall. This large open space is enhanced by its stunning vaulted ceiling and stone walls. Here, you can be joined by 120 loved ones. The space will also host your wedding breakfast and revelries, again for 120 guests. There are no ties to suppliers, so you have complete creative freedom to design your wedding however you wish.

EM & WOZ DOCUMENTARY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS

A LIFELONG SYMBOL OF YOUR MARRIAGE should be as unique as your relationship

HOLY MOLY! YOU’RE GETTING MARRIED! Whether you’re making plans to get hitched in a church, in the woods, a beautiful grand house or on a pier, Em & Woz would love to work with you to capture YOUR amazing wedding. We capture beautiful weddings all over the South West that tell a unique love story by using an unobtrusive, discreet and calm approach.

T: 07805 904 412 E: hello@emwoz.co

WWW.EMWOZ.CO

Specialising in bespoke handcrafted jewellery made in the heart of Hatton Garden. We realise your exact vision for you to cherish forever.

www.instagram.com/eleanorjoycorp eleanor@ejcjewellery.co.uk 07825 615403

The Old Mil king Parlour at Cavokay House Beautiful rustic wedding venue

Henstridge, Somerset, BA8 0TQ

A new chapter begins For a wedding vibe straight from the pages of a literary epic, check out these local beauties

www.gemhicksphotography.com

STORYBOOK VENUES

THE BISHOP’S PALACE AND GARDENS, WELLS

www.gemhicksphotography.com

Steeped in history, The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens sits at the heart of the Medieval city of Wells in Somerset. Whether your arrival is by car or a relaxed stroll across the drawbridge, as you make your way through the arch of the ancient gatehouse you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of this stunning, 800-year-old building.

The Bishop’s Palace boasts 14 acres of perfectly-kept gardens for you and your guests to enjoy, and they really do have something magical about them. With the moat surrounding the Palace, offering the tranquil sounds of flowing water, the dramatic backdrop of Wells Cathedral, picturesque willow bridge and seasonal flowers and plants all year round, this is a glorious space to gather with your loved ones.

A friendly welcome awaits you here as does a glass of champagne and as you make your way onto the garden terrace overlooking the South Lawn and ramparts, simply relax and take in your surroundings.

Later, you can take your seats for a memorable wedding breakfast in the atmospheric banqueting hall, which boasts a magnificent vaulted ceiling and stained-glass windows. Lit with candles, the Undercroft

provides the ideal intimate atmosphere for your special day. Seating 108 at maximum capacity along stunning bespoke wooden banqueting tables, with a further 52 guests accommodated for the evening, the space is versatile and offers a fabulous way to enjoy good food surrounded by friends and family. The team work closely with a local catering partner to ensure quality, locally-sourced ingredients and an extremely high level of service.

Following speeches and cake cutting, you can retire to the Portrait Gallery for coffee and cake. Relax and take time to enjoy a more informal time with your guests, while the team transform the Undercroft for the evening, whether you choose live music or a DJ. The space can accommodate 105 standing.

A marquee reception overlooking the ruins of The Great Hall, provides the most spectacular alternative celebration space. You’ll enjoy exclusive hire of the site, which includes The Palace building and RHS partner gardens. A marquee in the style of your choice will be erected overlooking the majestic ruins of Bishop Burnell’s splendid dining and entertaining hall, built in the 1280s. Here, you can host 260 guests and a bespoke quote will be provided on request.

www.gemhicksphotography.com

01749 988 111 | www.bishopspalace.org.uk

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https://rebeccafaithphoto.com

https://rebeccafaithphoto.com

ORCHARDLEIGH ESTATE 01373 472 550 | www.orchardleigh.net Nestled amidst 500 acres of parkland and lakes, Orchardleigh is a family-owned country estate in Somerset. The estate boasts a beautiful 19th-century stately home, romantic island church, 18-hole golf course and plenty of luxurious accommodation. Orchardleigh House and grounds will be exclusively yours for the duration of your day complete with plenty of stunning backdrops for your photographs.

Ceremonies can be held in The Ballroom (up to 100 guests), The Great Hall (up to 144 guests), The Belvedere (up to 144 guests), or The

Pergola (unlimited numbers). Alternatively, the estate’s island church is a super-romantic place to exchange your vows. Lit purely by candlelight, St Mary’s Church is situated on an island at the heart of the estate.

The terrace and gardens offer a breath-taking spot for reception drinks along with sweeping views across the estate.

The Ballroom has a capacity of 165 for a memorable wedding breakfast, bursting with elegance it boasts high ceilings and feature windows. What’s more, because Orchardleigh is a private house, residents and guests can celebrate until dawn! The house can sleep 85 guests within 41 opulent bedrooms, with further accommodation available in the estate cottages if required.

THE CASTLE AT TAUNTON 01823 328 303 | www.the-castle-hotel.com/weddings The Castle Hotel is a historical landmark in the centre of Taunton. The existing building dates to the 1300s and has retained many original features. The wisteria that grows on its exterior is 200 years old and bursts into beautiful bloom twice a year in May and August. The interior is very traditional, befitting a British castle, with tapestries on the walls and a winding staircase to the top floor with a decorated ceiling.

On the roof, you’ll find the former apartment of the Chapman family, who still owns the hotel. Following their retirement, it was converted into two Castle Suites and the Penthouse function room, which is available for both ceremonies and wedding breakfast. The outside roof terrace is also perfect for post-ceremony drinks and canapés, offering views across the Quantock Hills.

The Norman Gardens lay alongside the Castle and showcase the 20

footprint of the original Norman structure. Among the grounds you can also see one of only two square Norman wells in the UK. Both the walls and well were constructed circa 1160. The hotel looks onto the Castle Green, which is a pedestrianised area home to Mackenzie’s Wine Bar and the Somerset Museum.

All of the venue’s function rooms are licensed for ceremonies and are also available for your big-day bash. They are: the Wisteria Room (50 ceremony, 30 reception guests), Music Room (90 ceremony, 120 reception guests), Penthouse (20 ceremony, 30 reception guests), and Garden Room (70 ceremony and reception guests). As a further option the Garden and Wisteria Rooms can be combined for the revelries hosting 85 loved ones.

The venue offers a complimentary night’s stay in the Castle Suite for the newlyweds’ wedding night on all three of its packages. You’ll also be treated to a free anniversary stay as part of the diamond package.

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The Bishop's Palace and Gardens, Wells Steeped in over 800 years of history Located in the heart of medieval Wells is your truly unique wedding reception venue.

From the remains of the Great Hall to the 14 acres of RHS partner gardens, to the Palace buildings themselves - your wedding reception will be truly enchanting and a memory which will last a lifetime.

For a personal tour of this special venue, including exploring the option of marquee weddings on the South Lawn, contact Imogen via imogen.martin@bishopspalace.org.uk.

www.bishopspalace.org.uk/venue-hire/weddings

Weddings with Waggs ‘n’ Woofs The Pet Chaperone with the Personal Touch Would you love to have your pet be your ring bearer, guest of honour, or simply have some forever photographs with them? We specialise in making your dream come true!

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Since starting my business I have also qualified in a variety of beauty treatments including Aesthetics, BBL and Hair Extensions. I’m based in a lovely salon in the heart of corsham called L.A.B offering all my services.

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Elmhay Park Weddings Orchardleigh Estate Exclusive Three Day Wedding packages Tailored to you, for the unforgettable day you say 'I Do' www.elmhaypark.co.uk Tel: 01373472550 Email: Info@Elmhaypark.co.uk Elmhay Park, Orchardleigh Estate, Frome, BA11 2PB

Elmhay Park Three day Eldon package includes Castle stay the night before your wedding for up to 12 including hot tub. Lewis Lodge for your partner sleeping up to 7.

Exclusive use of Italian Veranda, Walled Gardens and Stunning Orangery, Exquisite Wedding breakfast, unlimited reception and wedding breakfast drinks, Late License - drink and dance until Dawn, Accommodation for up to 75 for your guests in the adjacent Elmhay Park Village, Newlywed retreat at the secluded Church Lodge with hot tub for the night after. Package prices from £7,875.

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Parish’s House is a Regency property set in 22 acres of beautifully manicured lawns, tended gardens and parkland near Bath. The house dates back to 1816 and has been the family home of the present owners for more than a decade. There are two onsite cottages for wedding parties, which have been decorated in keeping with the style of the period.

The gardens here have always been the venue’s crowing glory, capturing many hearts over the years. A walk through the grounds will take you on a journey past beautiful blooms, trees that have stood for hundreds of years, views of the rolling Somerset hills, woodland and the venue’s very own kitchen garden.

The venue boasts three beautiful outdoor ceremony locations. The front

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of the House is a great spot as the grand doorway creates an altar that frames the two of you perfectly. There’s plenty of room for seating 150 loved ones along the aisle. The Woodlands can seat the same number and is a clearing surrounded by trees offering shade and an intimate atmosphere. The gazebo is ideal the for altar as it’s the focal point here.

The Archway is located along one of the cobblestone paths and again frames you beautifully. The path leads to the Bridal Suite making the entry of your bridal party seamless and there’s seating for 80 nearest and dearest either side.

For larger celebrations with 150 guests The Copper Beach is the perfect place for a reception. The stretch of lawn here in the tree’s shadow is a fabulous spot for a marquee with an idyllic view of the House.

The Kitchen Garden Lawn on the other hand can host 80 loved ones seated or 150 standing, and can be used for your reception with or without a marquee.

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PARISH’S HOUSE info@parishshouse.co.uk | www.parishshouse.co.uk

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STORYBOOK VENUES

LEIGH COURT 01275 373 393 | www.leighcourt.co.uk The Leigh Court Estate has a rich history as a religious sanctuary, a family home, and hospital and has been conquered by, gifted to and used as a safe haven by kings for thousands of years. Shielded from the hustle and bustle of the city by Leigh Woods, the beautiful Leigh Court was designed by architect Thomas Hopper in 1814. You may recognise it more recently from various TV productions including Poldark and Bridgerton. The design of this graceful Grade II listed mansion combines elegant Palladian architecture with opulent Greek revival interiors and lavish 19thcentury décor.

You can choose to hold your ceremony in any of the five tastefully decorated rooms, depending on the size and style of your wedding, or in a marquee on the extensive lawns. All of the stunning ground-floor rooms are licensed for wedding ceremonies. The fairytale staircase, 40 skylights

and working pipe organ in the Great Hall (120 ceremony guests) makes it a popular choice, but the blush-coloured Morning Room (65 ceremony guests) and exquisite golden Tapestry Room (65 ceremony guests) are also favoured by couples looking for an intimate location. Meanwhile, the Library and Salon (65 ceremony guests) are perfect if you’re hoping for a ceremony room that opens directly onto the lawns.

When it comes to receptions, you’re spoilt for choice, as they can be hosted in one or all of the ground-floor rooms including the Tapestry Room (56 seated dining guests), the Library (109 seated dining guests), the Salon (56 seated dining guests), the Outer Hall, the Morning Room (56 seated dining guests), and the bar and lounge. When the weather is too good to stay indoors, guests can spill out onto the lawns directly from the Library and Salon. The venue also has a stretch tent located on the lawn, which you’re welcome to use. Overall, Leigh Court can hold up to 400 for the evening reception if you choose to hire a marquee.

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elegant

SIMPLY

Anna and Mat celebrated their marriage at St Audries Park creating plenty of magical memories along the way Images courtesy of Hannah Barnes Photography

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REAL WEDDINGS

A

nna met Mat in her home town of Minehead in 2014, while he was in town for a stag do at Butlins. She was sitting outside a local pub when Mat and his mates walked in. Anna’s friend caught their eye and they went over to join her table.

Anna and Mat hit if off that night and kept in touch after he’d returned home.

They continued a long-distance relationship for a while with Anna travelling to Stroud every three weeks to see Mat, until they eventually moved in together in 2015. “We both fell for each other and were best friends from the beginning,” Anna says.

Mat proposed on Christmas Day with a Haribo ring! It was 2020 so he told Anna that he hadn’t been able to get out and choose a real one. But lo and behold, when she opened her present neatly wrapped beneath the tree, it was a real, shiny engagement ring! Anna remembers: “I started crying and our three-year-old said, ‘I will marry you mummy,’ as she thought I was sad! Bless her.”

Since the couple met in Somerset, it felt only right that they should get married there and fell for the orangery at St Audries Park. They’d have a lot of friends travelling from Stroud, so they wanted somewhere that offered accommodation and St Audries also fulfilled this part of the brief.

Read on as bride Anna tells us more about the big day: 29th April, 2023...

SETTING THE SCENE For wedding favours, the couple bought scratch cards and gave them to guests with a sixpence. “This went down well and quite a few won!” says Anna. “I liked the idea of the sixpence rather than a penny due to the link with weddings and luck.” Guests were also gifted toiletry boxes full of useful things such as mints, sewing kit, deodorant and more. We’re told these were a real hit!

The bride also made her own wedding newspapers, which contained the order of the day, in-memory-of section, and the couple’s love story. These were laid out in the bar and guest bedrooms.

Anna wanted the table plan to be personal, so each one was named after the train stop between Stroud and Taunton. This featured the guests’ full names, whereas the place cards bore their nicknames.

The bride designed the centrepieces herself. Each one featured a log slice with three vases on top, each a different shape and size. The flowers were provided by their wedding florist, but Anna arranged them the night before. Gypsophila filled two of the vases, while the other held a single cream rose. “The venue was fantastic and laying out the tables exactly as I wanted them.

I also added some advice-for-the-bride cards I’d had made,” Anna tells us.

St Audries Park provides in-house floral displays for use throughout, but the couple added their own signing table arrangement for the orangery, which was then moved to the top table for the reception. There were also beautiful blooms for the bride and her bridesmaids, including a toss bouquet, buttonholes and a cake arrangement. Anna added a charm containing a picture of her late nan to her bouquet.

The couple enlisted the help of Homemade Cakes by Juliet for the big-day bake. They knew her creations well as she’d also 25

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REAL WEDDINGS made their daughter’s Christening cake. For the wedding she made lemon and elderflower, and salted caramel tiers. It received great acclaim with guests commenting on how delicious it was. The venue provided the catering, which was outstanding and delighted all assembled.

An acrylic welcome sign was decorated by local company Balloons & Ribbons to complement the colour palette. Anna was lucky enough to win the hire of the flower wall and neon sign from a competition on Instagram.

LOOKING THE PART Anna wore a Sophia Tolli gown. “When deciding what to wear, I was very drawn to the Italian style of tight-fitting, lace dresses and particularly wanted long sleeves,” she explains.

She tried on many gowns in various boutiques across Somerset and Gloucestershire, eventually coming across Sophia Tolli on Instagram. So, she found a boutique that stocked her designs and fell in love with Finley. “It was lacey, elegant with a slight boho twist and the back was gorgeous. I had alterations made so it fit me like a glove. By the end of the night it was ripped to shreds but I was having too much of a good time to care!”

Mat wore a Marc Darcy suit, while his groomsmen’s attire in a similar dark blue tweed was hired. The groom’s stood out, but was complementary enough that it was perfectly set off. The gents all wore ties and pocket squares to match the bridesmaids’ outfits.

The bride tribe was dressed in long nude chiffon dresses. “I found a gorgeous cowl neck style that suited everyone,” Anna says. The flowergirl meanwhile wore a beautiful mini wedding dress in ivory with a cute heart detail on the back.

“Our guests haven’t stopped talking about it being the best wedding they’ve ever been to!” – Anna TIME TO CELEBRATE Anna and Mat arranged for a personal song to be written and performed by Jamie Mathias at the wedding breakfast as a surprise for their guests. It was a huge success and loved ones cried “encore,” so he performed two more songs. The room was alive by 6pm.

To add to the festivities the bridesmaids organised a game of Mr & Mrs, where the newlyweds needed to answer questions on who was better at certain things and raced to drink a shot.

They also hired a sax player for the evening reception. He entered via the balcony during the first dance, also a surprise for the guests. The first dance started to Tom Walker and mixed into Jubel by Klingande. The saxophonist then continued to play throughout the evening alongside the DJ.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS On wedding morn, the bride woke up to a robin singing outside her window. This was significant to her as her grandad always told her he’d come back as one. “At every milestone in my life there’s been a robin there,” she says.

The couple’s daughter who is five did a reading during the ceremony. One of Anna’s friends was due to do the honours but gallantly stepped aside after she witnessed the couple discussing it one evening, at which point little Eva piped up: “I’ll read it mummy!” How could anyone say “no” to that? Anna remembers: “On the day, after only one practice, she stood up and read it so beautifully. It’s a moment that really stands out to me.”

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ROLL CREDITS Venue, St Audries Park, www.audries-park.co.uk | Photography, Hannah Barnes Photography, www.hannahbarnesphotography.com | Bride’s dress and accessories, Taffeta & Lace, http://www.taffetaandlace.co.uk | Groom’s suit, Famous On The Prom, www.facebook.com/thefamousontheprom | Bridesmaids’ dresses, David’s Bridal Birmingham |Groomsmen’s attire, Tuxedo Junction, www.tuxedo-junction.co.uk | Wedding rings, Goldsmiths | Hair stylist, Hair by Georgie, www.instagram.com/hair_by_georgiebird Make-up artist, Charlotte Tillyer Hair & Make up Artist, www.charlottetillyer.co.uk | Cake, Home Made Cakes by Juliet, www.facebook.com/homemadecakesjuliet | Flowers, Loolabells, www.loolabellsfloristry.co.uk | Stationery, Abbie Worton Design, https://abbieworton.com | Entertainment, Somerset Wedding Services, https://somersetweddingdjservices.co.uk | Jamie Mathias, www.facebook.com/jamiemathiasmusicc | Joe Glynn Sax, www.joeglynnmusic.com | Balloons, Balloons & Ribbons, https://balloonsandribbons.co.uk | Nails, Emma Nails, www.emmanails.com | Flower wall, Diamond Event Styling, https://diamondeventstyling.co.uk | Acrylic sign, Rose Signage Co, www.rosesignageco.co.uk 28

This beautiful, hand-built Tricycle adds something special & unique to any event, creating a beautiful sweet table and something different from the average sweet cart.

Fill up a bag of sugary delight or enjoy a glass of Pimms, The Sweet Tricycle caters for all.

The Sweet Tricycle offers a wide range of packages from Sweets, Pimms, Doughnuts, Hot Chocolate & Crisps.

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REAL WEDDINGS

Sentimental JOURNEY

Michelle and Paul said “I do” at the breathtaking Leigh Court and added a touch of travel to their styling Images courtesy of Interlace Photography

M

ichelle and Paul found each other online and met up in Bath for their first date. It was intended to be coffee, but it soon turned into a small walking tour of the city followed by dinner. “From the outset, I liked Paul’s positive demeanour and confidence,” Michelle says.

We fast forward and find the couple on holiday in Barbados.

They were invited to Michelle’s best friend’s wedding there, but decided to turn it into a longer trip since they’d been cooped up for so long thanks to Covid. They hired a car and decided to explore the island, picking Farely Hill National Park to visit, which offered incredible views over the Atlantic and the East Coast. Paul suggested they take advantage of this remarkable

photo opportunity and when Michelle turned around to face the camera, she found him on one knee. “My initial thought was that he’d somehow fallen over, but then I noticed the ring. It was a total surprise! He’d bought a temporary one and I received the real engagement ring when we got home. He’d worked with a company to design it. It’s so special,” Michelle shares.

The couple decided on Leigh Court as their location for the big day, a stunning venue bursting with history and elegance. “The ceremony room is beautiful and gave us the wow factor we were looking for when we first saw it,” Michelle explains. So, the date was set for 20th May, 2023.

Read on as the bride tells us more...

31

My bouquet was a trailing arrangement of pale blue nigella, rich blue cornflowers, scented white freesia, little white phlox, pale blue clematis, white scented mock orange, white veronica, little white rose buds, green and white chintz, pale blue echinops, sage green and contrasting green eucalyptus, mint leaves, olive, fern fronds and ruscus, with scented white jasmine trails.

I wore Abbie by Love Story Bride with the Cleo skirt. I knew I wanted a simple fitted dress with a low or exposed back, and decided on the overskirt for an element of drama during the ceremony, as well as taking advantage of two looks.

Paul wore a blue suit, as did his groomsmen, and he paired his with a grey waistcoat to stand out from the rest of the group.

The bridesmaids looked beautiful in their blue Morilee dresses.

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We wanted simple but complementary flowers that were in keeping with the venue’s beauty. We had two large urns at the wedding breakfast. Our florist provided everything for the flowers and centrepieces and moved everything around on the day.

Don't stress about the small things. If something doesn't go to plan no one else will know or notice. Try to stay together as much as possible and maximise some moments where it's just the two of you.

REAL WEDDINGS

We descended the stairs separately with Paul waiting at the bottom. We then walked the aisle together. It was so special and we were so pleased we did it the way we envisioned.

We decided to use places we’d visited together for our table names except the top table, which was one of our honeymoon destinations.

We chose sage green for the table plan, with a ‘where in the world are you sitting’ theme, as we love to travel. We opted for a nontraditional seating arrangement with our parents, some of the bridal party and family sat on different tables around the room.

33

We had some low-level arrangements on the table in vases with candles. The florals were all stunning and smelled wonderful.

In the evening we had a live band who were also a hit with guests, who thought they were fantastic.

The week after the wedding, we went on a mini-moon to Tuscany.

We spent the week walking, eating and sampling plenty of wine. It was glorious and much needed after the wedding planning and build up. We’ll soon be heading off to Indonesia for our main honeymoon adventure. We’ll spend three weeks island hopping, taking in: Bali, Flores, Komodo Island, Padar Island and Lombok.

THE W-DAY TEAM Venue, Leigh Court, www.leighcourt.co.uk | Photographer, Interlace Photography, www.interlacephotography.co.uk Bride’s dress, Perfect Day Bride, www.perfectdaybridal.net | Alterations, Rose Savage Bridal, www.rosesavage.co.uk | Groom’s and groomsmen’s attire, Moss Bros | Wedding rings, CustomMade | Hair and make-up, Maria Lucas, www.marialucas.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, The Bridal Room Bristol, www.thebridesroom.co.uk | Flowers, The Wilde Bunch, www.thewildebunch.co.uk | Stationery, Written by Emily, www.writtenbyemily.com | Entertainment, Ardeton String Quartet, www.ardetonquartet.co.uk Funkty Dumpty, www.funktydumpty.com | Catering, Berry Blue, http://berry-blue.co.uk Videographer, A Perfect Memory, www.aperfectmemory.co.uk 34

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BERWICK LODGE On the outskirts of Bristol, set in stunning grounds, is Berwick Lodge. A privately owned and independently managed boutique wedding venue and hotel. A hidden secret just waiting to be discovered.

When you drive down the sweeping driveway, to the picturesque and photogenic backdrop of Berwick Lodge, we’ll be here to welcome you and you can expect to feel totally at home.

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Modern

REAL WEDDINGS

LUXURY

Hannah and Tom’s wedding was brimming with modern luxury and oh-so chic vibes Images courtesy of Simon & Kiana Photography

H

annah and Tom have been together since they were teenagers. Tom would try to catch Hannah’s attention in the corridor between lessons, but she was completely oblivious!

Eventually, it was Hannah who decided to add him as a friend on Bebo, as she knew of him at least. He accepted and they spent the next few months messaging each other before deciding to make it official, even though they hadn’t met #IRL yet.

Tom had carefully planned everything for a romantic proposal at the Stourhead Christmas Lights in December 2021.

However, that evening there was a terrible storm and the event was cancelled – Tom went into panic mode! Luckily though, they managed to get tickets for the following night, so off they went. They reached the end of the trail and Tom started to grow concerned again, as he still hadn’t popped the question. But as they stood there, by the lake, a light show started up to an

instrumental version of Let It Go. This was his moment as Hannah is a huge Disney fan! With that, he proposed. “I was totally surprised and couldn’t have asked for a more perfect setting: on a winter’s evening by the lake at one of our favourite places accompanied by the ideal song,” Hannah says.

Crowcombe Court was the first country house venue they’d looked at and had four others booked in to view. Hannah remembers, “It was the long driveway leading up to the house that sold it to us. It was so picturesque. Inside was very grand and from every window all you could see was countryside, it was perfect!

One of my favourite rooms was the dining hall. It was very elegant and had a lovely blue and gold ceiling, which exuded pure luxury. The fact that you could also have the ceremony, reception and guests staying all in one place was fantastic.”

Here, the bride tells us more about 10th July, 2023 – W-day...

37

I wore a floral fishtail dress by Sassi Holford, with a large side headpiece covered in diamantes and a cathedral-length veil covered in sparkles. I wanted to have something showstopping, a dress that I could look back on and think: ‘Yes, I looked good that day!’

Tom wore a black fitted three-piece suit accessorised with a bottle green tie and handkerchief with a buttonhole made up of a white rose with foliage. He looked very handsome! The groomsmen wore the same as Tom, but their buttonholes didn’t contain the rose.

The bridesmaids wore sage green gowns in different styles. I wanted them to be comfortable and they all loved their dresses.

Sheer white fabric decorated the ceremony chair backs, with lanterns running along the aisle.

I designed the place cards myself. These were made to match the invitations with a marble effect and greenery in the corners with each guest’s name written in gold.

38

REAL WEDDINGS

We had mini Green & Blacks chocolates, and love hearts for wedding favours.

Tall rectangular stands on the tables held white rose arrangements with greenery cascading down.

The cake had four tiers flavoured with coffee, salted caramel, and carrot cake. It had a white and grey marble fondant icing all over, with a gold streak running down it.

We opted for a fine-dining option for the wedding breakfast. We had pigeon to start, duck or vegetable risotto for main, and chocolate torte for dessert.

We had a DJ in the evening. For our first dance we had dry ice, which looked incredible. We hadn’t rehearsed, neither of us are dancers, so we decided to go slowly. When Tom quietly asked if he should dip me, I nervously said, ‘Yes,’ and it went perfectly. We’re so pleased our photographers got the shot!

We also hired a photo booth with props. This was so much fun, and we were able to take an album home filled with all the printouts.

39

Straight after our first dance, I went upstairs with my bridesmaids and hair stylist Amy from Revive to get my hair chopped! I’d been growing it out for months and wanted to get it cut before our honeymoon, so I thought what a perfect opportunity! There was much fun and laughter in the bathroom while getting it done.

Tom and I were both blown away by our wedding photos. We couldn’t have asked for better.

When I came back down everyone was shocked and absolutely loved my new hair and dress. I decided to change too as I wanted the day to be formal and the evening to have a major party vibe, so I reflected this in my outfits.

Enjoy your day! Ours zoomed by and quickly feels like a distant memory. The newlyweds always have to greet everyone and do the rounds, but do make sure you take some time for yourselves.

HANNAH AND TOM’S SUPPLIERS Venue and catering, Crowcombe Court, www.crowcombecourt.co.uk | Photographer, Simon & Kiana Photography, www.simonandkianaphotography.com | Bride’s dress and accessories, Sassi Holford Taunton, www.sassiholford.com | Groom’s and groomsmen’s attire, Moss Bros | Wedding rings, F.Hinds | Hair and make-up, Revive Hair and Beauty UK, www.instagram.com/revivehairandbeautyuk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Forever New | Cake, Little Buttercup Cakery, www.littlebuttercupcakery.co.uk Flowers, Cottage Flowers, www.cottageflowersandmore.co.uk | Entertainment, Platinum Music Events, www.platinummusicevents.co.uk | Venue styling, Creative Collections, www.creativecollections.uk | Videographer, Pixaplace Weddings, www.pixaplaceweddings.co.uk 40

AWARD-WINNING WEDDING S I N G E R & S A X O P H O N E P L AY E R Share your love story through the magic of music. Stunning live performance creating the perfect atmosphere for your: • CEREMONY • DRINKS RECEPTION • W E D D I N G B R E A K FA S T • F I R S T D A N C E Plus live electrifying evening performance alongside your DJ!

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Credit: Joshua Penrose Photography

Credit: Hannah Sharpe Photography

Credit: Petite Rose Captures

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Rookery Bridal Boutique is an independent boutique owned and run

by Sarah and her friendly team. It has dresses to suit all budgets and samples to fit a wide range of figures.

The Hayloft, The Stables Business Park, Rooksbridge, BS26 2TT 01934 751111 / 07880 316330 weston@rookerybridal.co.uk www.rookerybridal.co.uk

Events catered beautifully in Bristol & beyond queenandwhippet.com @queenandwhippet

The magic

LOCAL SHOOT

OF A MEADOW

This local team created a floral fantasy at Yalham Hayes’ flower farm in Taunton Images courtesy of Petite Rose Captures

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hoot coordinator and wedding planner Samantha Smart from Wedding Regency, had a vision of a dressed table in the middle of a flower meadow with the newlyweds raising a toast to each other. Luckily, Aizel Finch from Yalham Hayes owns a flower farm and was on board with the idea. “She planted a beautiful summery meadow,” Samantha says. “But thanks to the British weather, we were unable to spend too much time outside and were forced to rethink the whole thing.” The team quickly agreed to use the barn instead, and the result was a great success.

Flowers from the farm were used in the models’ hair, as well as on the cake and tables.

Meanwhile, the tablescape and tree were styled like a dream, and the complementary stationery worked beautifully with the theme.

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LOCAL SHOOT

THE DREAM TEAM Shoot coordinator, Wedding Regency, www.weddingregency.com | Venue and flowers, Yalham Hayes, www.yalhamhayes.com | Photographer, Petite Rose Captures, www.petiterosecaptures.co.uk | Dresses, Rookery Bridal, www.rookerybridal.co.uk | Accessories, Clare Lloyd Accessories, www.clarelloyd.co.uk | Hair stylist, Elizabeth Jarrett Hairdressing, www.elizabethjarretthairdressing.co.uk | Make-up artist, Gillian Rachel Elizabeth MUA, www.gillianrachelelizabeth.com | Suits, Deane & Sons, www.deanesofcheddar.co.uk | Cake, Claire Hansen Cakes, www.clairehansencakes.com | Venue styling, Sage and Belle Styling, www.sageandbelle.co.uk | Stationery, Odeta B Calligraphy, www.odetabcalligraphy.co.uk | Models, Harry Hawkins, Amy Hawkins, and Daisy 45

Modern

LOCAL SHOOT

PASTELS

Guildhall in Bath provided the showstopping backdrop for this romantic shoot Images courtesy of South West Wedding Photography | Video courtesy of Doug Austin Films

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hen the Bath Weddings team got the opportunity to work with Bath Registry Office at their prime venue, Guildhall, all involved jumped at the chance. With such a spectacular location, it demanded a team of the very best wedding suppliers in Bath and Somerset. With that settled, a palette of bright pastels emerged, coupled with an elegant vibe, and a modern fashion edge.

Along with some long standing members, the Bath Weddings team also got to work with some new suppliers, including musical duo Skarlette, bringing both beautiful vocal harmony and youthful charm. Featuring award-winning stationery design, an incredible wedding cake, plus hair accessories and jewellery to complement the theme, it was all up to the team behind the cameras to capture the hard work as creatively as they could.

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LOCAL SHOOT

Scan to view video

THE CREATIVE TEAM Shoot coordinator, Bath Weddings, https://linktr.ee/BathWeddingSuppliers | Venue, Guildhall Bath, https://beta.bathnes.gov.uk/guildhall-bath | Photographer, South West Wedding Photography, www.southwestweddingphotography.co.uk Videography, Doug Austin Films, www.dougaustin.co.uk | Dresses, Kyrstle Brides, www.krystlebrides.co.uk | Accessories, Elsa Rose Boutique, www.elsaroseboutique.com | Bridal make-up, Steph Bye MUA, www.instagram.com/stephbyemua | Skarlette’s make-up, Roxie Make-up, www. roxiemakeup.co.uk | Bridal hair, Ria Rosen Hair, https://riarosenbridalhair.co.uk | Suits, Suave Owl, www.suaveowl.co.uk | Cake, Angel’s Kitchen, www.instagram.com/angels_kitchen | Flowers, Bath Spa Florists, www.bathspaflorists.co.uk | Stationery, Design Inspired by You, www.designinspiredbyyou.com | Entertainment, Skarlette, www.skarlettemusicduo.com | Jewellery, Bath Aqua Glass, www.bathaquaglass.com Models, Daisy Kellow, @daisykellow and Cesar Alvarez, @cesartist91 49

BAILBROOK HOUSE

© A Tall Long Legged Bird

HOTEL BATH, SOMERSET

Wedding & Celebrations Open Day SUNDAY 26 TH NOVEMBER 2023 (11AM - 3PM) Held in the beautiful Mansion House our open day is the perfect event to help you collect inspiration and information for your celebration.

The team will be on hand to answer any questions and to discuss your requirements

To register for this event Scan the QR code or call 01225 855 100

01225 855100 or 0845 072 7515

|

bailbrookhouse@handpicked.co.uk

EVELEIGH AVENUE,

LONDON ROAD WEST,

|

www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/bailbrookhouse

BATH,

SOMERSET

BA1 7JD

PHOTOGRAPHY

PICTURE PERFECT

www.jwarrphotography.co.uk

Some of the region’s finest wedding photographers tell us what to expect from the process at every stage of your wedding journey

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https://emwoz.co

BEFORE THE BIG DAY FINDING THE ONE

to ask about their insurances and assurances. Although these things don’t necessarily make a good photographer, they are synonymous with those serious about their business, brand, reputation and giving their clients peace of mind.”

Em and Woz continue, “When it’s time to chat with your potentials, note whether they’re listening to your requirements – do you gel and are you both reading off the same page? Wedding photographers aren’t there to dominate you or your day, they’re there to document it as it unfolds without causing stress or being obtrusive. So, meetings are an ideal way to get a feel for whether you’re going to get along. Also, find out what you’re getting for your money. Do they include an engagement shoot or is there any extra cost? Is travel included? How many photographers do they provide? How long will it take for your photos to be processed?”

This is all sound practical advice, but at the end of the day when all of this has been taken into account and you still haven’t reached a decision Lloyd and Sophie from We Are Found (www.wearefound.uk) suggest a slightly different approach: “We recommend going with heart over head.

Photography is an art form, and you’re going to instinctively know what you love and what’s not for you, so listen to your instincts.” https://emwoz.co

ear of the unknown can become overwhelming when planning a wedding. After all, it’s not something you do every day! So, we’ve decided to remove that for you when it comes to one of the most important elements of your day – the photography. Here, some of the region’s finest wedding photographers, tell us what to expect from the moment you set out on your planning journey to the time you spend putting your album together.

“Choosing the right photographer can be a difficult decision to make, so it’s vital to find someone you can trust,” say Em and Woz from Em & Woz Wedding Photography (https://emwoz.co).

“After all, they need to capture one of the most important days of your life.”

Start your research early, discover the work you love, and make a short list of photographers you want to get in touch with. Viewing their work online is all well and good, but you’ll need to know more. Jon Warr from Jon Warr Photography (www.jwarrphotography.co.uk) says, “Photographers are all business people with a marketing head. It’s common to tease with just a few (maybe 30-50) pictures on a website to entice visitors into wanting to see more, encouraging you to enquire. So, don’t be afraid to get in touch and ask about seeing further work. Get to know them a bit and see how they approach you. While you’re there, be sure

“Like anything, you do get what you pay for and it’s generally recommended that you invest as much as you can afford, 10 to 15 per cent of your budget is a great guide, giving you a figure to work with.”

– Jon Warr, www.jwarrphotography.co.uk 51

IN THE PICTURE Em and Woz say, “Always supply a group shot list, as this helps with organising the groups when the day arrives, saving time and boredom for everyone involved! Nobody likes hanging around for group shots when the nibbles and champagne are calling. It’s even better if you designate someone to shout out to guests for group shots – someone with a loud voice or an usher works well. Be aware that even with fast photographers like us, group shots can take a couple of minutes each so the time soon adds up.” Be selective so that everyone can get on with the business of having fun!

There’s certainly a happy medium to be reached here, the key is balance. Lloyd and Sophie pick up the baton: “While it’s best to avoid an endless list of group photos, we don’t recommend forgoing them altogether. We always suggest up to 10 combinations, so these can be done quickly and with a bit of fun. It’s good to remember that family group photos are often the ones your nearest and dearest will treasure the most, and it’ll mean a lot to them to be included in those ones with you.”

PLANNED TO PERFECTION In preparation for the big day, you’ll need to discuss with your photographer detailed timings of how your day will unfold. Em and Woz explain, “Having a schedule of the day is a huge help for your photographer, it means they have absolutely no excuse to capture your special moments! But don’t panic, sometimes things don’t always go to

www.wearefound.uk

https://emwoz.co

www.jwarrphotography.co.uk

JUST THE TWO OF US “Engagement shoots are a great way to get to know your photographer better before the wedding,” say Lloyd and Sophie. “If you’re a little camera shy then they’re a great opportunity for your photographer to help you feel more confident in front of the camera. They also offer the chance to get beautiful images of the two of you during this chapter of your life, and are perfect for using on wedding websites, save the dates or invites.”

https://emwoz.co

www.jwarrphotography.co.uk

STYLE IT OUT

It’s vital that you love the style and aesthetic your photographer uses.

Take a look at the websites of as many as possible and you’ll see what we mean, and how much they differ. As Jon says, “You’re simply not going to be attracted to the work of those who don’t float your boat.” Jon told us that there are three main styles you’ll tend to hear about. Here, he kindly gives us a summary...

“Reportage, documentary, and candid wedding photography are all, more or less, the same. This is the process of documenting your day and allowing it to flow naturally while your photographer artistically captures the essence of your wedding day as it unfolds. This is a great option if you don’t feel super-comfortable in front of the camera. You’ll get great photos rich with activity and emotion. I myself mostly work in this style, with hints of editorial.

“Editorial photography isn’t entirely dissimilar to the above, but this style is inspired by fashion and magazines. It’s a somewhat more planned and curated approach and is often, but not exclusively, accompanied by lighter, more airy aesthetics. It’s great if your personal values and style are influenced by fashion and modern trends.

“Traditional wedding photography is an approach that’s much more directed and orchestrated and can be somewhat more time consuming.

It involves more photographer input and direction on the day to satisfy a specific vision with fewer organic images. You won’t find this as much in the digital age, as the volume and variety that’s achievable with the previously mentioned styles makes them more popular.”

“Together, consider how you want your day to feel. Your photographs will be your record of the occasion, so choose a photographer with a style that matches the vibe you’re going for.”

– Lloyd & Sophie, www.wearefound.uk 52

PHOTOGRAPHY

ON THE BIG DAY SEEING DOUBLE

www.wearefound.uk

www.wearefound.uk

“Some photographers offer second shooters to capture your day,” Em and Woz tell us. “This is something you’d have to work within your budget and it’s important to find out how frequently the two have worked together, so that you won’t see a difference in their images.

There’re a lot of couple photographers available who can cover so much of your big day. The advantage being that they can split off and capture both the bridal prep and groom prep.”

Another such local husband and wife team is Lloyd and Sophie who say, “We’re big advocates for having two photographers. There’s two of you after all, so it’s

lovely to have images of both of your days unfolding from the get-go. We can be in two places at once, not only for the morning but one of us can capture the ceremony from the back and the other the heartfelt moments from the front. There’s so much value in having two creatives, two people invested in capturing your day, paying attention to your details and capturing it with their own artistic perspectives.”

WHATEVER THE WEATHER

www.wearefound.uk

www.jwarrphotography.co.uk

plan and elements have to be shifted around a bit. It’s not a problem but communication is key for any day to run smoothly.”

Time scheduled in with your photographer for your couple shots is something you won’t regret once you see the outcome, not to mention the escape it gives you for a few moments to reflect. Lloyd and Sophie say, “We like to factor in two sessions for couple photos: one prior to dinner (before the wine has started flowing), and another at golden hour. This is the time leading up to sunset when there’s potential for some warm glowing light. Of course, it changes throughout the year and will hit differently depending on the surroundings, so talk to your photographer to find out when’s best to factor this in.”

“It’s always good to have wet-weather plans,” say Lloyd and Sophie. “It might be an alternative indoor space or a stack of umbrellas to help your guests get from A to B, but our biggest tip on weather in the UK is actually to embrace it. You’re marrying the love of your life, surrounding yourself with the people who mean most, you’ve carefully chosen the place, the décor, and all the things to make it your vibe. A bit of rain can’t undo that, so don’t stress.

“Whether you fancy embracing a romantic cinematic couple session in the rain or would rather wait it out, it’s important to remember it very rarely rains all day and as photographers we’re always looking for that break in the weather for you.”

“As photographers we love any weather and relish getting the brollies or the sunglasses out! Just smile, you’re only getting married once!”

– Em and Woz, https://emwoz.co

AFTER THE BIG DAY When the last of the confetti has been swept away and you’re headed off on honeymoon, your photographer will set to work on your images. The wedding excitement isn’t over, as now you get to see the result of all that careful planning, collaboration and talent: memories to last a lifetime.

Em and Woz say, “Waiting for your images is probably the hardest part but patience is necessary. Your photographer will want to provide the best photographs for you to keep as wonderful memories of your big day and this takes time. Most will try to provide a small set of photos within 72 hours of your wedding day. For all your wedding collections to be uploaded onto a personal gallery, and for an album or prints, you’re looking at up to eight weeks work. This is, of course, very dependent on their work flow and whether they out-source the photos to be edited by an independent company. At Em & Woz Photography, we like to try and give our clients their collections within six weeks of the wedding so as not to keep everyone waiting! All our images are hand processed as both colour and black and white sets.

“Nowadays, clients will ask for online galleries rather than the traditional wedding photo album, which offers a wider reach to friends and family, near or far, allowing them to access a much larger range of images. Hopefully, your photos will tell a visual story of your special day that can be shared with anyone you choose. This also gives you the opportunity to print or create an album should you wish. Always check to see if this is part of the package that your photographer offers, but do take into account that they cost a lot of time to create when it could be easier to do it yourself (shhh... don’t tell anyone!).”

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BEAUTIFUL HANDMADE WEDDING STATIONERY

We have always had a passion for weddings and planning weddings. The look on the couples faces when they have the wedding of their dreams is priceless and helping them to reach their vision is very rewarding for us. We enjoy getting to know you and finding out your likes and dislikes so we can help you to have the special day you deserve. We can help you with full planning or managing the day only. We offer a free, no obligation initial consultation so we can get to know each other and see what we can plan together.

• WEDDING • SPECIAL OCCASION • • BESPOKE • DESIGNER & STUDIO RANGES • DIY Workshops and kits available for couples who want to make their own

WWW.WEDDINGREGENCY.COM

Credit: Admiral Photography & Films

07517127703 | weddingregency@consultant.com Instagram @wedding_regency | Facebook @weddingregency1

www.topikki.co.uk

07771 61 33 75 | topikki@blueyonder.co.uk TopikkiStationery | @Topikki1

Unique. Elegant. Romantic Contact Sarah to book your consultation to discuss your bespoke wedding cake www.sarahssugarcraft.co.uk | 07940 166979 | Sarah’s Sugarcraft | sarah’s_sugarcraft

Image courtesy of Ambience Venue Styling Bath © https://amysanders.co.uk

INTIMATE WEDDINGS

Small but PERFECTLY FORMED

The region’s wedding aficionados offer expert advice on planning an intimate wedding

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ince the pandemic, the biggest shift in the wedding industry has been towards more intimate weddings. Born out of necessity during various lockdowns and restrictions, small yet mighty nuptials made us all reevaluate what’s important and remind us what a wedding is all about.

So much so in fact that the trend for intimate weddings is here to stay.

We chatted to our local experts to discover the benefits of a small but perfectly formed celebration as well as their tips for planning your own.

“It’s all about quality over quantity!”

– Celebrant Polly Miller BUDGET “Budgeting is your best friend,” says celebrant Polly Miller. “Prioritise what’s most important to you, whether it’s a favourite photographer, a fantastic meal, or a live band; then allocate your budget accordingly.

Planning an intimate wedding is all about detail and flexibility. Smaller guest counts mean you can splurge on unique experiences for loved ones, like customised favours or surprise entertainment. Remember, it’s all about making every moment count.

“As a celebrant, I advise couples on how to allocate their budget specifically for the ceremony. This might include live music, custom vows, or cultural traditions that hold meaning for them. I also help couples strike a balance between budget and vision.”

VENUES “If you’re not catering for 100-plus people, a whole new world of venue options will open up to you,” says Samantha Smart from The Wedding Regency. While many will offer cosy spaces for more modest guest lists, there’s also another category to add to your search, a dream if you’re both foodies, and that’s pubs and restaurants. Perhaps there’s a special place in your heart for the pub you met at on your first date, or for the restaurant location of your proposal. Maybe you have a love for tapas and can’t find a caterer to help. If so, why not find out if your favourite culinary hotspot has a function room and book it out for your wedding breakfast?

Unconventional, quirky venues also become feasible the fewer of you there are. Celebrants Deb Stodgell and Jackie Aldrich from Just Ceremonies say, “What about having your ceremony on a barge as you meander down a canal, or on a hill overlooking your favourite view?

Perhaps you might prefer a steam train, or as you wander through a

wood with different elements of your ceremony in different places.”

Another option is to host at home. Start checking out shelter options such as tipis and stretch tents, to offer your nearest and dearest cover from the elements as you gather together for an intimate wedding breakfast in the back garden. If you like the idea but prefer somewhere different, hiring a holiday property could be an option, and a great idea if you want to make a weekend of it with all of your guests staying on site with you.

Celebrant Polly Miller says, “With a guest list of 30 or fewer, you can turn your wedding into an epic, intimate bash. Think about renting a quirky venue, like a cosy barn or a charming garden that’s just perfect for your crew.”

GUEST LIST “Deciding who to invite to an intimate occasion involves careful consideration of your relationship with prospective guests and the atmosphere you want to create,” Deb and Jackie say. “Prioritise those who’ve supported your journey; you want to surround yourselves with cherished individuals on your special day. Factor in geographical constraints too – you might want to consider offering virtual ceremony attendance to distant loved ones.”

Polly says, “Picking your guest list is like assembling a dream team.

Invite the people who mean the most to you and your partner, those who’ve been there through thick and thin. Don’t forget, it’s your day, so go with your heart!”

Gaynor Page from Topikki Stationery explains the process for narrowing down the guest list: “Parents and siblings, are likely to be at the top of the list, but sometimes close friends might take priority over family members you rarely see or keep in touch with. Each of you should make your own list limited to around 10, keeping any potential add-ons to one side. From this, you can create a shortlist. Also, decide whether or not the day will be adults only, as children can impact numbers quite dramatically.”

“You’ll be able to spend quality time with everyone.

You don’t need to feel rushed to speak to each guest, which makes your day feel more relaxed and intimate.”

– Samantha Smart, Wedding Regency 55

“WE DO” Image courtesy of Just Ceremonie

“A celebrant-led ceremony with fewer than 30 guests enables unparalleled personalisation, intimacy and creativity,” say celebrants Deb and Jackie.

“The smaller scale allows for deeply customised experiences that reflect your personalities and values. You could even seek to include many of your guests. How about involving them in readings, or asking them to contribute their thoughts on marriage or you two as a couple? What’s more, smaller ceremonies tend to have a more relaxed pace, allowing the celebrant to take the time needed to emphasise important moments and details. This can lead to a more enjoyable and less rushed experience for you and your assembled loved ones.”

Polly says, “When planning an intimate wedding ceremony, celebrants can provide insight into how to structure it to make the most of the smaller head count. This might involve more opportunities for guest participation, meaningful rituals, or storytelling elements that might not be as feasible in larger gatherings.”

“There’ll be fewer concerns about seating arrangements, catering, and overall event coordination, making the planning process smoother.” – Deb Stodgell and Jackie Aldrich, Just Ceremonies

STATIONERY Image courtesy of Topikki Stationery

With a guest list of 30 or fewer, you can stop thinking of mass produced invitations and opt for something bespoke, a work of art that loved ones will want to keep. “You can add rhinestones and feature folds into your stationery designs, and really personalise your message,” says Gaynor from Topikki Stationery. “This greatly adds to the cost on larger quantities but would be more economical on fewer.”

She continues, “Alongside the usual menu choices, dietary requirements, and directions you could try personalising your message – something different and unexpected. Let loved ones know that it’s a small gathering, which will make them feel honoured to be invited. Adding a dress code, or asking guests to bring something specific that relates to either of you could add to intrigue. This could then be used in a fun icebreaker game, where other guests have to guess why they think it’s relevant.

Image courtesy of Ambience Venue Styling Bath

“Focusing your budget on a smaller guest count often allows you to delve into the details and provide really gorgeous and considered style touches for your guests,” says Holly Allman-Lopez from Ambience Venue Styling Bath. “From personalised stationery or more impactful favours (we love hand poured soy candles), to elevated touches such as designer taper candles and opulent flowers, smaller designs can be extremely atmospheric, enveloping your guests and immersing them in the look and feel of your big day.”

Deb and Jackie say, “Selecting a cosy venue with a charming ambience will go a long way towards creating the vibe you’re after. Arrange seating in a way that encourages interaction and create focal points with personal touches like photos and love letters.”

Polly tells us that intimate weddings are all about the personal touches you can bring to the party: “Think fairylights, handwritten vows, and cosy seating arrangements. You can even have a gourmet dinner or a picnicstyle feast – whatever makes your hearts flutter and your smile shine.”

“Corralling guests for group photos becomes much easier, and you’ll find much more detail in the finished images with fewer of you.”

– Samantha Smart, Wedding Regency

Image couresty of Queen & Whippet © www.weheartpictures.com

Image courtesy of Celebrant Polly Miller © www.juniperphotography.co.uk

VENUE STYLING

The smaller group allows for a more profound connection between you and your guests, making the ceremony more emotionally significant.”

– Celebrant Polly Miller

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“Seating plans don’t necessarily need to be on a board. Why not create a hanging mobile style, or plants such as succulents with names on sticks? Alternatively, create a fan or pick a shot or number, so guests sit randomly. A note of caution though, this only works well if both sides already know each other, or it might lead to awkward silences!”

ADRIAN PRITCHARD — Close Up Magician —

Some of the clients I have had the pleasure of performing for include: The Annual Charity Ball for The Lord Mayor of Bristol, Vodafone, Carphone Warehouse, Glow corporate events, The Roman Baths and BBC Bristol Radio, as well as many hotels and clubs around the country. I also have a residency at Steak of the Art restaurant in Bristol.

If you are looking to book a magician to add a touch of sparkle to your wedding, I guarantee to offer your guests an experience they’ll never forget.

aidimagic |

aidimagic | 07306 804202

A BESPOKE EXPERIENCE

Award-winning Bath, Somerset Photographers 01225 251 958 | hello@mapleandfleur.com

www.mapleandfleur.com

Call us for your FREE consultation

01934 245242 www.kimberleystheflorist.co.uk

The Ideal Venue for Wedding Receptions

Glamourous gowns in REAL sizes for REAL women

The Batch Country House specialises in weddings due to its beautiful location.

The landscaped gardens offer the perfect backdrop to your photographs.

Tel: 01823 331053 48 Bridge St, Taunton TA1 1UD

www.izzistocktonbridal.co.uk

Batch Country House, Lympsham, Nr. Weston-super-Mare, Somerset BS24 0EX Tel: 01934 750371 Email: info@batchcountryhouse.co.uk

www.batchcountryhouse.co.uk

Create Your Perfect Day

Your Party, Done Your Way

• Licensed for weddings all year in the Great Hall or outside

• Ceremony room sits up to 75, unlimited numbers if outside

• Exclusive use of marquee and gardens from May to September

• Marquee seats up to 200 people

• Ample adjacent level parking for guests • Freedom to arrange your food, drinks and entertainment • No corkage or VAT

• Dance floor, tables and chairs lighting and heating included • Discreet equipped catering area and fully staffed bar provided • In between Yeovil and Taunton with easy access to the A303

info@old-bridge.co.uk • old-bridge.co.uk

• 01460 240855

Image couresty of Queen & Whippet © www.weheartpictures.com

BIG-DAY BAKE A small guest list doesn’t need to mean a small cake! You can still have the showstopper you’ve always dreamed of while still sustainably keeping wastage to a minimum. Sarah Churchill from Sarah’s Sugarcraft has the answers: “The average 7” cake would give you 40 slices and could still make the statement of a larger cake on a trendy tall pedestal cake stand. Check with your venue whether you can have cake served as dessert, the slices would need to be bigger than the normal 1” x 1” size but a chocolate cake with cream would be the ideal after-dinner treat.

“If you like the look of multi tiers though opt for a single tier of real cake with the others fake but still covered in the same finish as the edible version. You’ll have your photo taken cutting the real one before the whole thing is taken to the kitchen where the real tier will be cut into slices and your guests will be none the wiser!”

Image courtesy of Sarah’s Sugarcraft © www.tamillahaycock.com

Just because you’ve set enough budget aside to cater for 100 guests, doesn’t necessarily mean you need to invite that many.

If you decide to halve that or even cut it down to a third for the same budget, you’d be looking at quality over quantity. For so many of us food tells a story and is a crucial part of any wedding day, so if it’s the area you’ve both chosen to prioritise you really could go all out!

Jo Cranston at Queen & Whippet has a great example: “Our head chef and co-owner Pete can custom-design a menu with a high level of detail and intricacy. We ask our couples to think of food they’ve enjoyed together on travels, at important moments such as what they ate on their first date, and what favourites they share.

Pete will incorporate elements of these memories into a bespoke, playful and refined menu that encourages interactivity and conversation, like the seven-course tasting menu we created for a recent cultural fusion wedding for 10 guests. Every dish was designed to be a tale unfolding, reflecting the couple’s shared story and personal tastes. They chose to reference how well they knew their guests, incorporating the preferences of their friends and family through favourite drinks choices. Additionally, some complex dietary requirements were considered so every guest felt included. With all diners at one table, Pete was able to introduce every course, detailing the inspiration, method and ingredients, which added a theatrical and fun element.

“Your caterer is likely to have a minimum spend to make a smaller wedding viable for them. They should help you maximise the value at every point if the guest numbers are low and give you full visibility on where your budget is going. While couples save on having fewer people eating, they may still have fixed costs such as bringing in a field kitchen so check that’s clear in your quote. Also think about how your timeline will flow. You’re likely to have more time seated rather than the traditional standing reception of a larger party, and your food service should reflect this.”

Image courtesy of Sarah’s Sugarcraft © www.tamillahaycock.com

CATERING

Image couresty of Queen & Whippet © www.weheartpictures.com

INTIMATE WEDDINGS

ENTERTAINMENT As we’ve already seen, buying dinner for 30 people versus 100 will leave you more budget to focus on what you love. Perhaps in your case it’s entertainment. All you need to bear in mind is what will be appropriate for a small group. By all means, hire a band, after all you can’t beat live music; but consider the size of it. If there are more members in the band than there are on your guest list, this will likely overwhelm the perfect vibe you’ve worked so hard to achieve. A trio or quartet would be ideal, and if they can perform a chilled acoustic set before taking you through a more lively party playlist for the evening, then more’s the better.

Another thing to think about is that all-important element of involvement. Local magician Adrian Prichard says, “You’d need an entertainer who could interact with all of your guests, so a close up magician would be perfect.”

“Remember, your wedding day should reflect your personalities and love story. Keep it fun, lighthearted, and enjoy every moment of planning!”

– Celebrant Polly Miller CONTACT OUR EXPERTS Adrian Pritchard Magic, www.instagram.com/aidimagic Ambience Venue Styling Bath, www.ambiencevenuestyling.com Celebrant Polly Miller, www.celebrantpollymiller.com Just Ceremonies, https://justceremonies.co.uk Queen & Whippet, https://queenandwhippet.com Sarah’s Sugarcraft, www.sarahssugarcraft.co.uk Topikki Stationery, https://topikki.co.uk Wedding Regency, www.weddingregency.com 59

The region’s experts offer stellar advice on personalising your nuptials THAT PERSONAL TOUCH

Jackie Aldrich and Deb Stodgell from Just Ceremonies (www.justceremonies.co.uk) say: If you want a unique and intimate experience for your special day you could benefit from a celebrant’s entire approach, and here’s why...

You can have a personal wedding ceremony that reflects your individual personalities, beliefs, and love story. We’ll work closely with you to create a bespoke ceremony tailored to your preferences.

There are no restrictions on the content (or indeed the venue) of the ceremony, allowing you to include spiritual or religious elements if you

want to. This flexibility ensures that the most important part of the day truly represents your values and beliefs.

You can easily confirm our availability with a single phone call, and you’ll have the freedom to choose the time as well as the content of your ceremony, allowing you to have the “I dos” that perfectly suit your schedule. We’ll also provide guidance on completing the legal formalities required. Plus, only conducting one ceremony a day ensures we can dedicate our full attention to you. So, on your wedding day, you can look forward to being greeted by a familiar and friendly face, knowing that we’re ready to deliver the personalised script we’ve worked on together.

LOVE LETTERS Artist and illustrator Sarah Dowling (www.sarahdowling.co.uk) says: Going bespoke with your wedding stationery is a great way to personalise your wedding and share your story as a couple. When loved ones receive your invite in the post, it’s really important that is reflects you as a couple, as well as the tone you want to set for the day. This is the first impression your guests will get of your plans after all. From bespoke maps, to venue sketches, favourite florals and even pet portraits, I’ve featured all sorts of meaningful details in my watercolour wedding stationery to add that personal touch.

When I’m working with couples I always encourage them to think about what’s meaningful to them, what they’re looking forward to the most, and how they can use stationery to enhance those moments and add a little fun.

If you’re big foodies and you’ve spent ages designing your wedding breakfast, why not add some illustrated menus to the table to get everyone’s taste buds tingling? Table plans can also be a great place to add your twist, I’ve designed ones featuring, favourite authors, footballers, flowers, wines, holidays and even cakes. Or perhaps you want your stationery to simply reflect the beautiful setting or season by using imagery inspired by the location. Bespoke stationery gives you the chance to add all those little details and help bring your own unique story to life.

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HOT TOPIC This time it ’s personal!

EXPERT ADVICE KEEP IT CLASSY! Craig Cheber from Booth Nineteen (https://booth19.co.uk) says: Creating a bespoke wedding day epitomises refinement and elegance.

Elevate your celebration with personalised touches that echo your distinctive love story. Here’s how to curate a wedding resonating with discerning couples.

•Boutique photo booth: Elevate your wedding entertainment with Booth Nineteen’s boutique photo booth, capturing candid moments, creating bespoke keepsakes mirroring your celebration’s sophistication.

•Ceremonial grace: Elevate your ceremony with tailored vows and anecdotes weaving your unique journey into celebration’s fabric.

•Luxurious décor: Adorn your venue with opulent décor mirroring your love story. Incorporate heirlooms, fine art, and plush textiles resonating with refined tastes.

•Exquisite signage: Craft sophisticated signage, calligraphed love notes, elegantly scripted timelines, adding distinction.

•Harmonious melodies: Choose live music or a quartet performing classic melodies or bespoke compositions, evoking emotions and delighting senses.

•Gastronomic delights: Curate a gourmet menu featuring fine cuisine and rare wines, offering bespoke culinary experiences reflecting your palates.

•Artisanal favours: Present guests with bespoke favours testament to your taste. Handcrafted confections, artisanal keepsakes all exude luxury.

•Sculpted cake: Commission a couture cake, a masterpiece of

taste and artistry. Intricate sugar flowers and hand-painted motifs reflect sophistication.

•Grand farewell: Conclude with grand gestures, a champagne tower or dazzling fireworks, leaving indelible memories.

These details transform your wedding into an elevated affair. Each element weaves a unique love story, leaving an imprint of opulence and sophistication on your hearts and those of your guests.

ALL ABOUT YOU

https://danmorrisphotography.co.uk

Thérèsa Jordan from Hummingbird Events (www.hummingbirdevents.co.uk) says: When it comes to a wedding day to remember, it’s all about you and your love story. Here are a few top tips on how to do this...

•Monogram everything! This is a great way to add that personal touch. You can use it to emboss your stationery, add it to your favours and even to make your dancefloor truly bespoke.

Why not go all out and create a couple crest?

•Tell your story. Think about the life you’ve had together so far, and use special places or moments that you’ve experienced together to name your tables or create your own welcome drink.

•That’s entertainment! Why not consider having a couple’s quiz or crossword as a fun thing for your guests to do? Plus, if you want to really personalise your day consider creating a photo wall. You can add to it pictures of you both from childhood through to your wedding day, and ask your guests to get involved and bring a pic with them too.

OLD, NEW, BORROWED, BLUE Cathy Keen from 14 and Sixpence (www.14andsixpence.co.uk) says: Your dress should be your dress... Still you, but the most beautiful version of you. With a simple gown you can really add some personality. Go classic with a statement veil, maybe a cape, or bling it up with a belt, tiara or choker.

Alternatively, keep it understated, classy and elegant, but add those sapphire blue heels you’ve always longed for!

A new trend in bridal attire personalisation is adding monograms or initials to the train, veil, or shoes.

You could even have your dress embroidered with the date of your wedding in blue thread for your something blue.

I’m a true fan of the rhyme: something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence for your shoe – it’s what inspired our boutique’s name. So, you can easily incorporate personal items to fit this. Think a piece of family jewellery, a borrowed veil, a little blue bow or lace from your mum’s wedding dress added into yours.

You can also include a memento of someone special who’s sadly is no longer with us. Sew a piece of fabric into the lining or under the train of your dress, wear a pendant perhaps, or hang one from your bouquet. Whatever you decide, make it personal, make it yours.

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CHEESEFEST Daniel Murphy from The Bath Soft Cheese Co. (https://parkfarm.co.uk) says: Arranging a fabulous day to be remembered for all the right reasons is quite a task.

Fortunately, professionals are on hand not only to make this, the happiest of days, run smoothly but also to help you create something that’s truly you and tailor your catering accordingly.

A lovely way of sharing memories is to choose dishes that remind you of happy times and include a description of the backstory on the menu. This can be a great icebreaker and conversation starter among your wedding guests. Naturally, as a producer of delicious cheese, we’d urge you not to consider it an afterthought but rather give it the position it truly deserves as a showstopping centrepiece on the buffet table. It’s also a lovely backdrop for a photo opportunity. Our cheese wedding cakes can be decorated with your favourite flowers and fruit or keepsakes you’ve gathered along the way, and you can still enjoy the cheese right up to the last dance.

FLORAL REFLECTIONS Aizel Finch from Yalham Hayes (www.yalhamhayes.com) says: I don’t believe it’s the personalisation of the flowers that happens but rather the flowers become a reflection of you and what mood you’d like to have on your wedding day whether it be formal, classy, happy, summery, autumn, winter, spring, whimsical, fantasy, fun.

I ask my couples what words would best describe the feel of their wedding flowers and as there are never two weddings exactly alike the blooms become bespoke for each one across various venues and seasons.

www.petiterosecaptures.co.uk

Image courtesy of The Bath Soft Cheese Co.

TEMPT THE TASTEBUDS Claire Hansen from Claire Hansen Cakes (www.clairehansencakes.com) says: There are so many lovely ways to reflect your personalities and love story in your wedding cake. When I’m designing big-day bakes, I always have a detailed conversation with my couples to really get to know them and what they’d like to express with their cake. This one used colour to reflect both the bridal party and the groom’s suit. Using swatches of their bridesmaids’ dresses and the groom’s attire, I was able to colour match the green for the groom and the rose gold sequins and blush elements for the bride and her maids.

Heritage is another way that couples love to express themselves with their cake design – decorating your cake with flowers matched to your family tartan is a subtle but sentimental touch that I love.

Choosing a special flavour from your travels together such as vanilla chai or matcha can also be a delicious way to remember your past adventures. Discuss your bespoke flavour options with your cake designer with lots of time to spare so you can really get that nostalgic taste spot on.

www.facebook.com/kandlphotos

YOU MAKE THE RULES

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Jen Whitworth, also known at Jen the Celebrant (https://jenthecelebrant.co.uk), says: The simplest way to personalise your nuptials is to opt for a celebrant-led ceremony. A celebrant will work with you to make every aspect reflect you and your partner’s personalities. Every time a celebrant officiates a wedding ceremony it will be unique, different from the last one they performed.

A registrar however must repeat the same script every day, several times a day. With a celebrant at the helm, the party starts with the ceremony, as it should!

There are no limits to what you can do, say or even where you hold it. Traditional, modern, funny, quirky – anything is within your grasp.

You can rewrite the rules, in fact, bin them! If you want to go down the aisle on a motorbike, you can. You can include quotes from your favourite films, incorporate your family and heritage traditions, involve your fur baby, have a karaoke sing-song during your ceremony, the list goes on. Why not stop halfway through and raise a toast to your wonderful guests? Just think of the love invested in writing your own wedding vows that are personal and special to you as a couple.

PROFESSIONAL CELEBRANTS for a very special wedding ceremony Your Wedding Your Way

“You tailored the ceremony with such wonderful personal touches and made it truly memorable, unique and incredibly touching. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.” — Neil & Matt

Exciting new premises in the beautiful Somerset countryside

www.14andsixpence.co.uk 01823 276590 | mail@14andsixpence.co.uk

Mulberry, Ashwell Business Park. Nr Ilminster. Somerset TA19 9DX

“We had many guests comment on how personal the ceremony was. We would recommend you to anyone looking for an extra special ceremony.” — Kate

www.justceremonies.co.uk Email: hello@justceremonies.co.uk Deb Stodgell 07971 646717 | Jackie Aldrich 07831 486075

WWW.BOOTH19.CO.UK | 0117 332 0091

wonderful wedding day WISHING HUE A

As we pass through the seasons of this year and next, colour schemes can vary and adapt with trends.

Here editorial assistant Jess Bayley has created a guide to inspire you for your own big day

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rom delicate tones in spring to crisp shades in winter, colour schemes are vital to curating your dream wedding. Not only is a colour palette important when deciding what atmosphere you wish to create, but it will also ensure the theme is timeless when you look back through photographs post-vows. Choosing a scheme of two to four main colours depending on your chosen theme creates gateways for inspiration and aesthetics across various on-the-day styling elements.

SPRING WEDDINGS As flowers begin to bloom you’ll see colour schemes reflected in nature, with frequent hues of peach, lilac, sage and azure. This season of new life and fresh starts will manifest and relate to a couple’s new chapter in life ‒ their wedding. The balance of sunshine and cloud coverage will be sure to make the soft, yet striking tones of your styling choices pop in photos.

For a rustic spring wedding, soft pinks and blues incorporating subtle floral elements will delicately complement any wedding. Blush pink bridesmaid dresses are a traditional choice, allowing your wedding to embrace full elegance, while you can implement large amounts of light blue through the suits and table runners, for a contrasting air of fantasy.

A spring garden approach develops a seasonal and romantic atmosphere, with the use of pastel shades and plenty of flowers.

This scheme is versatile and could be adapted to suit almost any venue, although a botanical venue whether that be a woodland, historical site or vineyard will really make this theme shine.

When it comes to stationery, gentle pastel tones of blues, pinks or sage with the use of floral designs and foliage are recommended think: fresh, floral and fun!

SUMMER WEDDINGS Summertime can be ideal for outdoor weddings and the collaboration of natural and artificial colours can be mixed to find your ideal combination.

With vibrant summer themes such as tropical, carnival and retro surf, it‘s no surprise that vivid yellows, oranges and greens are popular. While these schemes can be quite bold and lively, they can also be warm and relaxed, the options are boundless! Hues can be selected to match the intended atmosphere of a wedding, whilst using opposing tones of the colour wheel to form pops of colour in photos.

A light blue and coral scheme can set a vibe of playfulness, why not opt for light blue bridesmaid dresses, ties, stationery and tablecloths, offset with a dreamy bouquet of coral and cream? You can employ small details of coral throughout the wedding styling using the larger statement pieces to show off the blue hue.

For the theme of ‘retro surf’, implement an arrangement of bold yellows and pinks for an energetic and zesty look. Often these citrus-inspired hues complement natural accents such as wood or leather allowing couples the freedom to experiment with different textures too for a true outdoor-wedding-vibe!

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COLOUR PALETTES

AUTUMN WEDDINGS The charm of an autumn wedding is irresistible; the leaves changing colour and foliage increasing, it can also be a season for an outside wedding, with picturesque and colourful views for photos – be sure to wrap up warm though!

When opting for a big day at this time of year, a ‘golden glow’ colour scheme can be combined with warmer tones of terracotta, saffron and maple ‒ watch a mature and earthy feel transpire. For that much-needed colour pop, mustard is an on-trend hue to brighten the look.

This colour scheme also works well with a more bohemian approach using natural material, think: linens, rattan, macramé and hessian.

Metallic tones such as bronze or copper offer a sophisticated spin on an autumn wedding. Perhaps a coppereffect seating arrangement and table decorations ‒beautifully compatible with green foliage!

By displaying your wedding cake on a copper cake stand, the scheme will follow into a focal point of your wedding, you can even implement your colour palette into the cake decoration itself with edible gold leaf detailing.

WINTER WEDDINGS

As temperatures begin to decrease, colour schemes can begin to cool with forest green, icy white, frosted blue and glistening silver being go-to winter wedding hues. But these colours can go hand in hand with some warmer earthy tones such as red, berry and brown ‒ rich in life and sumptuous additions.

Green and berry tones are a classic and timeless combination creating a festive atmosphere which can incorporated into any venue ‒ some may already have their Christmas decorations up you can utilise! Bring the outside-in with plenty of natural garlands such as ivy, fern and holly displayed around the venue.

When it comes to choosing a style for the wedding cake, opt for a simplistic design with the focus on nature-inspired decoration such as pinecones, velvet ribbons and holly to reinstate the theme. Along with the cake, a bouquet can also be kept simple with the use of white flowers, green leaves and red berries, often the addition of red among white flowers creates a pop of colour and adds some much-needed warmth for the time of year.

An aqua and silver scheme considers the cool tones of winter, forming a regal and icy atmosphere for the wedding.

This sophisticated palette can be emphasised through greys and blues in décor as well within the groom’s and groomsmens’ suits. For a bride, a pair of diamond white or aquamarine blue earrings can add subtle hints of the theme complementing a white dress.

When it comes to decorating a venue, fairy lights can add warmth to the frozen aura of a winter wedding, making you feel as though you are under the stars, a magical way to end celebrations as the evening draws in.

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EDITOR’S PICK Say I do wearing a gold vermeil initial necklace, £145, www.antoniaguise.co.uk

It’s all white

The latest Fiesta Collection from Gossard will offer support under a wedding dress while looking romantic and stylish too. Sizes range from 32A to 38E and prices start from just £18, www.gossard.com

PEARLY QUEEN Female-founded jewellery brand Pearloir has just launched a new collection perfect for brides. It includes plenty of pearly pieces, including these Giselle baroque pearl-encrusted cubic zirconia earrings, £140 and matching Majestic baroque pearl choker, £115, https://pearloir.com

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

Purse-friendly pieces This white gold-plated freshwater pearl bracelet, £70, is from the new affordable luxury jewellery brand Maudella. This first collection is a mix of contemporary everyday styles with some timeless classics and a few statement pieces for that extra wow factor! The full range comes in both 18-carat gold or white gold plating with prices starting from £35 up to £130, https://maudella.co.uk

WINGS OF LOVE The new bridal collection from British jeweller Kirstie Le Marque includes these on-trend angel wing earrings, £350, www.kirstielemarque.com

NEVER FULLY DRESSED

Beauty sleep

Guarantee some shut-eye in one of these 100% mulberry silk eye masks, £45 each, available in ivory and champagne, https://janedarcy.ie 66

This Lillianna pyjama short set, £98, is from the newly launched brand Mia Amore and is perfect for getting ready on the morning of the wedding. The latest range features timeless silk, satin and lace collections in an inclusive range of sizes from UK8 to 24, www.mia-amore.uk

focus

Honey-coloured velvet headband, £120, www.crown-love.com

BRIDESMAIDS

Dresses, from a selection, www.pronovias.com

Burnt orange sandals, £105, www.rainbowclub.co.uk

Style

Tan-coloured clutch bag, £29.99, https://katieloxton.com Orange multi-way dress, £99, Kates Dresses at www.silkfred.com

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Mini oval locket necklace, £95, www.astleyclarke.com

9-carat gold and cubic zirconia earring and pendant set, £99.99, www.hsamuel.co.uk

ALERT

Burnt orange, green and champagne tones are trending for bridesmaids this season

Crystal cross-body bag, £32, www.next.co.uk

Green halter dress, £85, https://clubllondon.com

Gold glitter sandals, £625, https://diminnoshoes.com

Sterling silver bracelet with seeded pearls, £179, www.clogau.co.uk Celestial-inspired watch, from £129, www.oliviaburton.com

Sequin tassel mini dress, £89, www.belissh.com Orange bridesmaids’ dress, £92, www.jjshouse.co.uk

Champagne-coloured drape neck maxi dress, £85, https://stylecheat.com

Olive green satin dress, £120, https://wearerewritten.com

Copper and gold slip dresses, from £90, https://graceloveslace.co.uk

Rainbow tulle bag with embellished handle, £580, www.lalingi.com

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Party dress, £465, https://quinnharper.co.uk 67

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DRESSED UP The new season bridal edit of dreamy dresses features delicate details, fairytale-inspired florals and flowing fabrics

https://clairepettibone.com 68

FASHION

https://inesdisanto.com

www.eseazenabor.com

www.airebarcelona.com/en-gb

www.andreahawkes.co.uk 69

www.hermionedepaula.com

www.rosaclara.es/en

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Marchesa for www.pronovias.com

www.lihihod.com

FASHION

www.katherinetash.com

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www.reemacra.com

https://theiacouture.com 71

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www.savannahmiller.com

https://graceloveslace.co.uk 72

www.mirazwillinger.com

https://nolagrey.co.uk

www.madelinegardnernewyork.com/en

FASHION

Standout sleeves Make your entrance in style wearing statement sleeves that will take you from day to dancefloor

Ness and Nessia dresses by www.mirazwillinger.com 73

Dress by www.eseazenabor.com

Sagall dress by www.airebarcelona.com/en-gb

Cherry Blossom dress by https://clairepettibone.com Dress by www.hermionedepaula.com

Motif dress by https://inesdisanto.com 74

Selene dress by www.katherinetash.com

FASHION

Rowen by www.kellyfaetanini.com

Adele by www.lihihod.com

Dress by www.madelinegardnernewyork.com/en Scan to view video

Bloom dress by Marchesa for www.pronovias.com

Memphis dress by www.rosaclara.es/en

Carey dress by www.andreahawkes.co.uk 75

PAR H A M H O U S E

B R I D E S of Dunster

C A R S From 1st - 30th November Parham House Brides of Dunster are hosting

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a sample sale of beautiful designer wedding gowns all in excellent condition and up to 50% off RRP. Designers include: Suzanne Neville, Rembo Styling, Claire Pettibone.

Appointments Necessary.

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WWW.CAR S OF CLAS S .C O .U K

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Call 01643 822298 or Email parhamhousebrides@yahoo.co.uk to book!

WWW.PARHAMHOUSEBRIDES.CO.UK

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Our elegant bridal boutique is perfectly situated in the beautiful village of Bleadon, in the heart of North Somerset, offering close links to Weston-Super-Mare and the M5.

Offering beautiful wedding dresses from outstanding designers such as Madi Lane, Stephanie Allin, and Sophia Tolli; with prices starting at just over £1,000.00 we have a gown to offer every bride.

Our two totally private rooms ensure that you and your guests can relax and enjoy the most luxurious bridal shopping experience possible.

We believe that choosing your wedding dress should be the most magical time for you and your guests, from the first moment you walk through our doors, to when the day comes to collect your dress.

www.elizabethannebridal.co.uk Purn House Farm, Purn Way, Bleadon, BS24 0QE Tel: 01934 - 313880 | hello@elizabethannebridal.co.uk

GROOMS’ NEWS

Adidas has released a new timepiece collection made using luxury materials and reimagined silhouettes. The Expression One (pictured) is a pared-back design with a strong personality, perfect for the groom-to-be who wants a statement piece to wear for years to come.

The SS23 collections align with the Adidas Originals Time for Me campaign, which celebrates self-expression and individuality, the core values of the brand.

Visit www.adidas.co.uk for more information.

Navvy creates artisan bags using leather sourced from ethical manufacturers. Finished using vegetable-tanned leather known for its quality, longevity, and lower impact, Navvy’s range of backpacks, satchels, and mini bags are beautiful investment pieces that would make a thoughtful gift for the groom-to-be.

The team at Navvy tells us: “It goes without saying that as designers, we have a huge responsibility and opportunity to do everything we can to ensure our pieces cause no unnecessary harm to the environment.

The first pillar of our two-pronged approach consists of creating timeless pieces and offering long-term repair and servicing, hoping to break the cycle of fast fashion.”

Head over to www.navvylondon.com for more information.

Model, TV personality, and influencer Eyal Booker and his brother Ariel Booker have launched Wavy, the Everyday Curl Crème for men.

The duo is hoping to start conversations around male hair care and break the masculine norms while paving the way for a new era of men’s grooming.

Designed to maintain and enhance curls for all hair types using high-quality ingredients, the Everyday Curl Créme lasts for up to 30 days when used daily.

To find out more, visit www.feelwavy.com

Grooms’ NEWS Grooms editor Melissa Cullen reveals the latest best buys and product launches

The newest edition to the Cologne Forte Collection, Aqua Media, is made from tangy, sparkling, and almost mouthwatering fresh notes that are full of life.

Francis Kurkdjian tells us: “Aqua Media smells like happiness, vitality, and energy, reassuring in its apparent simplicity. It puts me in a good mood. I have nothing else to add; everything is already there, written in the formula.”

This scent is now available to buy from Selfridges, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, and John Lewis.

Check out www.franciskurkdjian.com for more information.

Black Eyewear is the creation of optician and lifelong jazz devotee Robert Roope. The brand has lots of stunning models in its collection, each embracing different jazz artists. Roope’s array of designs includes frames dedicated to Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, and Ella Fitzgerald. With new designs being added, the collection is full of striking styles that are perfect for summer weddings.

Discover more at www.blackeyewear.com Luxury Swiss watchmaker Raymond Weil has introduced its latest freelancer model, the Freelancer Tri-Compax Chronograph. This new watch features a 43.5mm stainless steel case, the choice of a calf leather or stainless steel strap, and a power reserve of up to 56 hours.

Available from www.raymond-weil.co.uk 77

blue

SOMETHING

We’ve rounded up some of the latest products for the groom-to-be

Taylor & Wright Blue Suit, www.matalan.co.uk 78

GROOMS’ FASHION

The Believer, from £99, www.bloobloom.com

Three Piece Suit Trousers, £99.99, www.tkmaxx.com Sensational Check Waistcoat, £65, www.joebrowns.co.uk

Tailored Fit Blue Linen Shirt, £59.95, www.moss.co.uk

Men’s Tommy Hilfiger Weston Watch, £189, www.watchshop.com

Blue Leather Belt, £7.99, www.tkmaxx.com

Fun and Fresh Blazer, £110, www.joebrowns.co.uk

Dress Trousers – Whitton Cord French Navy, £250, www.favourbrook.com

Personalised Posh Totty Designs Vintage Map Circular Cufflinks, £24.99, www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

Sensational Smart Waistcoat, £55, www.joebrowns.co.uk

Revolution White Gold Lapis Lazuli Cufflinks, www.noeljewellery.com 79

Skin

DEEP WarPaint For Men shares its make-up and skincare tips for grooms-to-be

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ur grooms’ editor, Melissa Cullen, chatted with the founder of WarPaint For Men, Danny Gray, to discuss his skincare advice for grooms-to-be.

Base prep – As great make-up starts with healthy skin, preparation is key to ensuring any products you apply, like tinted moisturiser or concealer, sit well and last all day. Start by using a hydrating cleanser with warm water to wash your face. Follow this up with a hydrating moisturiser and a primer to create a great base for your make-up. It’s a good idea to leave the primer for a minute or so before applying any products.

SPF always – It’s important to wear SPF every single day to protect your skin from sun damage. Don’t worry; sun cream designed for your face isn’t the same greasy stuff you’d use for your body. It's often lighter and non-greasy, helping to create a good base for make-up.

Foundation vs tinted moisturiser – Sometimes, foundation can feel a bit too much in the warmer months, so instead, you can opt for a tinted moisturiser. These offer light coverage for your complexion while keeping your skin moisturised.

Cool eyes – Using an eye cream is a great way to combat dark undereyes and crow’s feet. A hack to really wake up and refresh tired eyes is to keep your eye cream in the fridge.

Anything cooling will help depuff your eyes and 80

help you feel fresher on a hot day.

Even complexion – To make sure your make-up looks even and natural, use a brush or sponge for application. When applying foundation or tinted moisturiser, blend it all over your face, up to your hairline, and down your neck. Take extra care to blend in areas that crease, which might get warmer during the summer, such as around the nose and under the eyes.

Get bronzed – Do you want that just-backfrom-holiday look without reaching for the fake tan? Try using a bronzer to lightly contour the face and add extra warmth to your skin.

Lightly sweep the bronzer across the top of your forehead and cheekbones using a powder brush, and gently buff out any harsh lines using the brush.

Facial hair focus – Are your beard or brows looking a little patchy, or lighter after time in the sun? Keep your facial hair looking fuller and thicker with a make-up pencil. Keep the pencil sharp, and you’ll be able to draw hair-like strokes to fill any patches or lighter areas. Try using a small comb to blend and shape the hair.

Don’t sweat it – If you’re worried about looking sweaty or oily, using a light, translucent powder on the face can help take away shine.

Gently sweep the powder in circular motions over any areas of your face that can look shiny, usually the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

For more information about WarPaint For Men, visit www.warpaintformen.com

Say I Do In Somerset

Festival vibes, sun kissed al fresco ceremonies, woodland picnics and hygge grazing tables, vintage jewellery, floral crowns and country garden bouquets, custom cocktails, neon signs, edible flower cakes, eye catching invites and handmade favours, mouth watering gelato, fun filled photobooths, artisan icing, boho accessories, laid back photography and creative styling...

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Venue Directory & Supplier Directory Registrar & Notice Appointment Bookings Essential Forms & Guidance Downloads Ceremony Planning FAQs

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Brid

Professional Make-up Artist specialising in Luxury Bridal & Private Client Make-up

07495 564949 | gillian@gillianrachelelizabeth.com

eye do!

by Jane Dare

Wedding Makeup Artist

Mobile service in the south west

Call Jane 07971 298490 www.eyedomakeup.co.uk @eyedomakeup_janedare68

www.gillianrachelelizabeth.co.uk gillianrachelelizabethmua Gillain Rachel Elizabeth Professional Makeup Artist

BEAUTY ADVICE

Beauty

Q&A

Look and feel your big-day best with help from the professionals NATURALLY LIFTED What is a natural sculpt, buccal and lymph facelift massage and what benefits will it have in the run-up to my wedding?

Jane Dare from Eye Do Makeup (www.eyedomakeup.co.uk) says: With the leaves changing colour, your eyeshadow palette should also embrace these warm earthy tones of burnt oranges, cozy browns and deep burgundies, adding an autumnal richness to your eyes. What’s more, the fresh dewy minimalistic base is here to stay this autumn, with a rosy sweep of blush on the apple of the cheeks and highlighter for luminosity.

For natural-looking eyes choose nudes, tan or light browns, groomed brows and mascara in brown or black. For a darker, sultry look on the other hand, choose berry shades including mauves, pinks or wine colours. If soft glam is your vibe, opt for nude, gold or beige eyeshadows, add eyeliner in gold or browns softened and blended with a full lash. Or go all out with a full glam look with rich colours such as dark pinks, purple, red and bronze, finishing with a dark, smoky eyeliner and full lashes.

For the lips, choose mulberry, plum or deep berry hues to make a bold statement.

These colours exude confidence and add sophistication. Whether they be matte or glossy finishes, your lips are sure to take centre stage.

Michelle Facey from Unfolding Space Studio (www.unfoldingspacestudio.com) says: This is a non-invasive treatment using advanced massage techniques on the neck, face and inside of the mouth that help to reduce signs of ageing, and restore firmness to your facial contours, de-puffing and reducing dark circles, leaving your skin looking and feeling refreshed. It’s a great way to prepare for your wedding day.

The massage starts on the outside, where the muscles are loosened and tension is released using beautiful massage oils. We then move onto the intra oral part of the treatment, which incorporates the gentle buccal massage. This is where we tone the facial muscles and carry out lymphatic drainage to contour the face and reduce puffiness. Each side of the face is massaged separately, as you’ll find that we often have one side that holds much more tension than the other. This way the muscles get the attention they require.

Using a combination of thumb and index fingers on the inside of the mouth your therapist will start working the cheek and jaw by moving the stagnations of tension and liquids, which provide a relaxing release in the face, neck and head. The muscles of the mouth and lips are worked with circular motions to give plumper lips the natural way, as well as massaging the area around the nose helping to open up the sinuses and drain away any lymphatic liquid.

This massage also helps to relax facial muscles, reducing wrinkles and fine lines for a smoother skin appearance, leaving your face prepped and ready for your make-up and hair session. Pre-wedding treatments will also help with symmetry, while releasing tension and stress from all of that wedding planning. Feel confident, relaxed and beautiful on your wedding day with this luxurious treatment and enjoy a beautiful bridal glow.

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SEASONAL VIBES I’d like to give my autumnal theme a nod through my make-up. Do you have any tips?

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YOUR BIG-DAY BOOST

anatome is an apothecary created in London by Brendan Murdock. The brand’s supplements have been formulated with the finest, scientific ingredients and botanical adaptogenics to support the body as it faces daily challenges. They’re especially designed to offer solutions to key issues, such as gut health, menopause, hormonal imbalance and fatigue.

These blends promise to restore a sense of joy and wellbeing.

The Women’s Health Essentials Duo, £54.40, includes Women’s Daily Wellbeing + Hormonal Support Supplement, and the Essential Daily Probiotic + Gut Support. The former is a blend of vitamins, minerals and botanicals, which help boost energy levels, balance hormones, and support a healthy immune response by providing key nutrients missing from most daily diets. Meanwhile, the latter offers a step towards a healthier lifestyle via beneficial bacteria to replenish the gut, and strengthen the immune system to fight viruses and bacterial infections. Check out www.anatome.co

TEAR-PROOF YOUR LASHES

Weddings come with lashings of emotions – crying from happiness as you say “I do,”welling up at the groom’s speech, or just plain old sobbing during your first dance. Thankfully Ardell’s latest launch is the solution to all your emotional big-day problems.

Ardell’s Active Lashes retain their 3D curl even through tears and dancing sweat, creating an eye lift that won’t quit. Beautifully made with lustrous black fibres on a flexible band that’s easy to apply and comfortable to wear, these lashes offer vivacious volume, instant lift and tear-proof long wear. Find them at Superdrug for £7.99.

Beauty BUZZ

Get the look with the latest must-haves

ON-THE-GO HYDRATION

Is your skin feeling tight? Is it looking dull or dry? Are visible fine lines and wrinkles appearing? Is your make-up just not sitting right? If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions you’re most likely one of the 90 per cent of the population who suffer from dehydrated skin. The 3 in 1 Hyaluronic Skin Mist from Ella & Jo is your convenient solution. Its formula provides fastabsorbing, long-lasting hydration that you can carry with you. It offers the perfect pick-me-up before the speeches or dancefloor. £26, https://ellaandjo.co.uk 84

TOO CUTE!

Iconic lip-care giant Carmex has announced a line of irresistible miniature Carmex coin purses in collaboration with quintessential British brand Anya Hindmarch. The recognisable little yellow pot is a staple of many a make-up bag, but can often get away from you, rolling around at the bottom of a handbag. Enter this oh-so cute coin purse, keeping the essential little pot safe and easy to access. Made from shiny capra leather and boasting a tassle zip pull, lobster clasp, Carmex logo and Anya Hindmarch gold-tone bow, this limited-edition offering is destined to become a collector’s item. £225, www.anyahindmarch.com

ABSOLUTELY FLAWLESS

The Cloud Beauty Blender, £9.50 from Bedew Skin, lets you apply your liquid cosmetic products flawlessly. A super-soft and bouncy beauty blender, it expands and softens when wet to give your skin a glowing finish befitting any bride. Simply soak in cold water and squeeze out the excess before use. It’s available in black and light grey. Check out https://bedewskin.co.uk

SMOOTH OPERATOR

Most of us long for baby soft, smooth and hydrated skin; especially if you’re preparing to look your big-day best or have more flesh on show while away on honeymoon. The honey-coloured Q+A AHA Exfoliator Body Scrub works a treat at buffing away dead skin cells and build-up, and at banishing lizard skin. Making light work of any bumpy and rough patches, pimples, and hyperpigmentation, it resurfaces to reveal a brighter base. A sensorial experience, it combines golden vanilla, coconut, crisp apple, macadamia, exotic papaya, and honeyed amber. Yum. £8, www.qandaskin.com

BEAUTY NEWS

A BRIDE’S BEST FRIEND

Jessica Rose Skincare is the first range of its kind to be designed exclusively for brides. Developed by bridal make-up artist Jessica Rose alongside leading skincare experts, the aim is to help brides whose lack of skincare routine or product knowledge may result in a less than satisfying make-up finish on their big day. This range can help you feel confident in your own skin, and ensure that your wedding face sits better, lasts longer and stays in place for a flawless look in your treasured photographs.

The four-step routine is designed to be used for at least six months before your wedding day, and contains all-natural ingredients including damask rose chosen for its calming, soothing and hydrating properties. See www.jessicaroseskincare.co.uk where you can also find bridal skincare tips and wedding-morning advice.

BEHIND THE MASK

Skin Laundry, a revolutionary skincare brand hailing from California boasts a variety of products ideal for achieving that pre-wedding glow. I love the Hydrating Facial Sheet Mask – an absolute treat! A must-try for any bride, they’re biodegradable and formulated with sodium hyaluronate, vitamins, amino acids, and natural plant extract. Each mask saturates dry, tired skin leaving it hydrated, replenished, relaxed and refreshed! Priced £40, https://store-uk.skinlaundry.com

ORANGE YOU GLAD YOU TRIED IT?

I won’t lie, when Huda Beauty’s new #FauxFilter Colour Correctors Correct & Brighten turned up in the office, their orangey hues made me think the brand’s boffins had lost the plot!

How wrong was I? These little wonders harness the power of colour theory by using opposing colours to neutralise unwanted discolouration. The peachy tones cancel out darkness and pigmentation to create even skin, which explains why this is the best product I’ve ever used for concealing my dark under-eye circles. Never again will I question Huda Beauty! £26, https://hudabeauty.com

WOODEN HEART

Luxury British skincare brand Ashmira Botanica is formulated with high quality natural ingredients packed with natural plant extracts, essential oils, and clays, is completely vegan, and formulated in small batches to minimise its ecological footprint.

Inspired by Chinese medicine, the core concept is derived from the ancient philosophy of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. The holistic, natural treatments can be personalised based on your biorhythm (year of birth), current skincare issues, and/or emotions, as well as being tuned to the season and time of year.

I recently met the brand’s founder Tracey at a wedding show and discovered that my element is wood, she then proceeded to describe me to a tee based on this, which was eerily fascinating! Head over to the website, https://ashmirabotanica.com, to discover your own element and check out the box sets. The Ashmira Botanica Wood Gift Set, £45, includes a 25g pot of Elemental Clay Powder, 5ml Elemental Elixir, 15ml Rice Balm Face Cream and 100ml Organic Rose Hydrosol.

ENHANCE THAT FLUTTER

Designed to build longer-looking natural lashes in just a few weeks with a superprecise applicator, Babe Essential Lash Serum boasts an ultra-nourishing formula including biotin and amino acids to boost your lash line and lash retention over time.

It’s your evening routine essential, and is even safe to use while wearing extensions and strip lashes. Stand by for eyelash envy! £80, www.beautybay.com 85

Best face forward Beauty editor Kelly Andrews investigates the much-discussed bridal must-have treatment, HydraFacial

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s beauty editor here at County Wedding Magazines I get to talk to a lot of bridal make-up artists and skincare specialists, and have heard them recommend a course of HydraFacials on many an occasion.

It’s suitable for all skin types and addresses all skincare needs, so this apparently is the best way forward to glowing big-day skin. I needed to investigate for myself so, I headed to my local HydraFacial provider, The Melrose Clinic in Leigh-on-Sea, quick smart.

I was lucky enough to have the chance to give the gold level HydraFacial a whirl, and my treatment begun with a cleanse before my therapist, Cornelia, went in with a lymphatic drainage massage. This stage is designed to assist your body’s natural ability to recycle, by opening up its lymphatic system. It helps to get rid of toxins built up in the skin, as well as reducing puffiness.

The first step of the HydraFacial proper is an exfoliation, offering the skin a second, deeper cleanse. The system uses vortex technology, a vacuum to the uninitiated, via the device’s wand, which is where the magic happens. HydraFacial works with several highly-regarded professional brands including JLO Beauty, Murad, ZO Skin Health and Circadia to produce signature products especially for this treatment and its associated technology.

The liquid is released into the tip of the wand, which is then passed over the face. Meanwhile, the technology delivers deeper product penetration and longer-lasting results than a traditional facial ever could. The first solution, Active Pore, contains algae extract, lacid acid and glucosamine.

Nothing too harsh, and it works to give the skin a deep exfoliation.

Next is a light GlySal peel, so called as it contains both glycolic and salicylic acids. When you book the recommended course of

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HydraFacials, your therapist will gradually move you through the strengths – 7.5 per cent, 15 per cent, and 30 per cent. It’s important not to shock the skin, so they’ll check all the way to make sure it’s happy and reacting well before moving to the more intense versions.

The peel opens up the pores and exfoliates even more deeply than the previous exfoliation step. You’ll also find it has a brightening effect and helps with breakouts, no doubt music to your ears as you prepare for your big day.

Moving on to the extraction part of the process, the vacuum technology comes into its own removing black heads from the nose, and is much kinder to the skin than squeezing them out. Although I didn’t have any blackheads, I do struggle with an oily T-zone, so this was one of the most satisfying sections for me. Be gone dirt and debris!

The chemical peel is then neutralised before moving on to the booster, exclusive to the gold level. During my consultation at the beginning of the treatment, we’d discovered that my skin was particularly dehydrated.

The sudden temperature change hadn’t been doing it any favours and what I thought were just dry skin patches, turned out to be eczema. So, my therapist selected Hydraglucan by Nassif MD. As well as a healthy helping of hyaluronic acid it also contains glucosamine, which aids collagen production and softens skin tissue. My skin was so parched, it soaked the product up in double quick time, literally lapping up every drop of goodness from the booster.

I was next put under red LED and infrared lights to bring any redness down and ensure the serum fully penetrated the skin. These also heal, which was great news for my eczema patches. There’s also a blue light option, which is likely the one your therapist will opt for if you suffer from breakouts as it’s antibacterial. I relaxed beneath the glow for 15 minutes, while I tried not to doze off, so relaxed was I by this point.

Finally, came the skin infusion, the part that makes the complexion really glow. It contains hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, arnica to calm, and mineral skin conditioners – copper, magnesium and zinc.

If you ask your therapist at the end, they’ll show you the gunky jar! This is where all of the extractions from your skin end up. To be fair, mine could have been worse. But knowing the content of that jar was once stored in the pores of my face and now isn’t, was super-satisfying. No lie, I’ve been talking about this treatment since I left the clinic. I entered with utterly miserable skin and over the next few days it began to feel clearer, lighter and crucially was responding to the skin care I was applying. I’m happy to report that I’m so pleased with the result, I no longer feel self-conscious when I dare to go out make-up free. I can only imagine the results following a full course.

For brides-to-be a course of six HydraFacials six months before the big day is recommended. This allows time for the chemical peel intensity to be increased gradually and have optimum effect. It’s advised that your final treatment be left no later than a week prior to the wedding just in case of any adverse reactions. The most popular option amongst nearlyweds is the silver HydraFacial, priced at £140 the cost comes down when you book a course, and includes everything I’ve talked about above, minus the booster serum.

Contact your local HydraFacial provider to learn more. You can find your nearest at https://hydrafacial.co.uk

An award winning bridal boutique based in central Bath offering affordable designer gowns and bridal accessories.

Featuring gowns by Enzoani, Blue

by Enzoani, Ellis Bridals, Maggie Sottero, Ronald Joyce and Mia Mia. Krystle Brides 11 St James’s Parade, Bath, BA1 1UL 01225 446844 www.krystlebrides.co.uk

Lady of the dance Beauty and wellness editor, Kelly Andrews, talks to Strictly’s Luba Mushtuk about health, wellbeing and the all-important first dance

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uba Mushtuk has been a pro dancer on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing since 2016. On a break between tours, she took some time out to chat to our beauty and wellness editor, Kelly Andrews. Here, she shares her top health and wellbeing tips for soon-to-be weds, as well as giving us the lowdown on how she keeps fit and healthy when she’s not performing on the show or touring.

We understand you’re a fan of getting outdoors to exercise.

Where do you most love to go?

I love the outdoors especially on those rare sunny days. I’m a big sun lover! One of my favourite spots in London where I go for a run and exercise outdoors is Hampstead Heath; it’s so big and full of nature, with a great view over the city. I love being out in the fresh air.

How did you discover your passion for dance and decide to make it a career?

It all started when I fell in love with a skirt that my mum made for me when I was around three years old. I was a very naughty child, but once I had music and a skirt I was just off dancing by myself, rather than making a mess around the house! That was why my mum was so keen for me to keep dancing, it kept me out of trouble!

From the age of four, I started competing. My oldest brother was already a dancer by that time and gave me a lot of lessons at home, so even at four I was very advanced compared to my peers. I guess the universe made a decision for me, I never even questioned my career path, as I’d already been doing it my whole life. I can’t even imagine doing anything else.

What does a typical day look like for you? How does your fitness and wellness regime fit in?

If you want to fit it in, you will. It’s all about prioritising fitness and wellness that makes you feel good. I think you’re more likely to stick to a schedule if you work out in the morning, then there’s less chance of something coming up in the day that can cause exercise to fall down the list of priorities.

Doing it first thing means you can’t push it back. There’s also something to be said for putting yourself first – do something for you first thing.

My typical day starts with an early morning workout, I find it sets the

What is the proudest moment of your career so far?

I’m proud of how I’m able to communicate my passion and love for dance with millions of people and hopefully make them feel every single emotion I’m expressing through my art. Being on TV is so amazing, as you can bring joy to so many people, and hopefully inspire them too.

How did you get involved with Strictly?

I started as an assistant choreographer in 2016, which I did for two years and absolutely loved working behind the scenes. I always dreamed of being a professional dancer on the show though, so I’m grateful it happened that way.

What style would you suggest a couple learn for their first dance as beginners, even for those of us with two left feet!

The first dance is such a special moment and should be magical. I’ve choreographed a good few for for my friends, I love doing them, but it all depends on music choice. Once, I did a wedding dance mix of eight songs complete with a change of a dress. It’s about the couple, music choice and what they really want. A waltz or American smooth are both good choices for a classic first dance but if you want something a bit different, more fun, just go for it!

Tell us about your own healthy living regime. How do you stay fit and healthy in between series and tours?

It’s so important to stay healthy while on tour, as our schedule is so busy.

But I also keep fit and healthy between tours and building up to Strictly Come Dancing. It’s actually very simple for me – I eat very clean and exercise daily, whether that’s pilates, a run, boxing, or dance. I also think sleep is such an important part of staying healthy. I certainly love my beauty sleep – I never get less than seven hours and always try to listen to my body.

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WELLBEING INTERVIEW

tone for the rest of the day. I finish the workout feeling strong, energetic and proud that I started the day with something positive. I obviously love dancing, but I’ve been really enjoying pilates recently too.

Following that, I’ll eat breakfast, have some coffee, check my diary to make sure I don’t miss any commitments, then let the day begin.

What are your top tips for a couple looking to get in shape for their wedding, and how can they maintain it once it’s back to reality with a bump?

It’s a common goal for couples to get into shape for their big day. It might be obvious, but my advice would be to focus on both nutrition and daily movement. Eating a balanced diet that includes wholefoods and avoiding highly processed, sugary foods can make a huge difference to how you feel. It’s also very important to keep hydrated and get enough sleep. I believe to look good you must feel good.

In terms of movement, finding an exercise routine that works for both partners can be helpful. You could schedule some joint sessions and some separately. For example, if you’re learning some fresh moves for your first dance you could take a dance class together (and learning that will get you into shape let me tell you!). Then, perhaps a running session apart, if that makes sense for your schedule. It’s also nice to have some ‘me’ time.

For maintaining after the wedding, I think it’s important to remember how good the new routine made you feel. But most of all, remember to love your body whatever shape you are. Beauty comes from the confidence within, so make sure if you’re looking to get into shape, you’re doing it to be stronger and healthier. Getting in shape is not always easy, but it can be a rewarding experience.

If you could tell people about one simple, initial change we could all make to our lives to start us out on the path to a healthier lifestyle, body and mind, what would it be?

Personally, I’ve found our minds and bodies are completely interconnected, and if you love yourself, you’ll fuel your body and mind with good nutrition, movement and affirmations. So, I think making a commitment to self-care and self-love is the initial step needed to make positive lifestyle changes. Then to look after your physical self, perhaps start with smaller changes that are achievable. If you’re early in your journey, you could start to get to know your body better by doing 10 minutes of stretching every morning, or if you’re slightly further along, start a new fitness class.

Whatever changes you choose to make, the key is to stay committed and consistent. Remember to be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress along the way.

You’re an incredibly busy lady, how do you maintain a healthy mind amidst the pressures of a hectic schedule?

Maintaining a healthy mindset throughout a hectic schedule is just

All images courtesy of www.instagram.com/lubamushtuk

What keeps you motivated?

I find motivation within myself. I’m constantly looking to improve and become better than I was yesterday. I think that this attitude is part of being a professional dancer, you have to want to keep pushing to be better.

I’m driven to grow and evolve as a person too. I love learning and experiencing new things. I think it’s important to broaden your knowledge and change as you gain experience, which is why I try to always say “yes” to new opportunities, even if they seem scary or risky at the time.

I also find motivation in the people around me. Whether it’s family, friends, or people I work with. I’m constantly inspired by them and their achievements.

something that comes with experience, it’s definitely become easier over time! I’ve learned what I need to prioritise in order to make sure I can remain consistent. This means exercising in the morning, spending time meditating, and keeping an organised diary. Now I’m able to just get things done without thinking about it, but that’s only because I’ve managed to put in the time and hard work to figure it all out. Be patient with yourself and stay committed, and you’ll get there, wherever it is you want to go.

Is there anything you can suggest to calm the stress levels during wedding planning?

Try to remember that it’s a blessing to have met the love of your life, that both committing to each other for a lifetime is a beautiful thing and the rest is just details.

I’m a very organised person and I love to plan things, but I can imagine that planning something as big as a wedding would be super stressful.

If you’re lucky enough to have friends or family members who want to support you with the planning, maybe take them up on it! Or if you can afford it, seek support from a professional wedding planner.

It’s also important to remember that your wedding day is about you and your partner, and not about pleasing everyone else. I’ve heard a lot of my friends who’ve got married say that it’s impossible to please everyone. So, I suppose you can remove some of that stress by prioritising what you want and what makes you both happy, whether that means having a big wedding or eloping. Don’t feel pressured to conform to society’s expectations or what others want from or for you.

What’s next for you?

My goal is to continue growing, continuing to improve my craft, and grab on to any opportunities that inspire and challenge me! I love life so I’m just going to keep on living and hopefully I’ll have many more wonderful opportunities to inspire others.

You can follow Luba on Instagram at www.instagram.com/lubamushtuk, and catch her on Strictly Come Dancing on BBC1 this autumn.

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HONEYMOON Travel editor Melissa Cullen reveals new openings and honeymoon essentials

MÁLAGA, SPAIN

PARGA, GREECE

Parga Beach Resort has unveiled 23 new luxury suites, fully equipped with private balconies and terraces, and some with plunge pools. Set on a secluded bay overlooking the glistening Ionian Sea and with direct access to Valtos Beach, the resort offers the perfect base to discover the quaint town of Parga in north-western Greece.

Home to three restaurants that feature beloved classic recipes with a twist, the resort invites guests to explore authentic Grecian flavours and indulge in homemade meals at its beachfront eateries, coupled with unobstructed views of Parga.

Perfectly positioned, couples can take part in kayaking adventures in the Ionian Sea, dive into the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, and discover the hidden treasures of this historic town.

For more information, visit www.pargabeachresort.gr

Douglas Friedman

Mett Hotels & Resort’s second lifestyle resort has recently opened on the pristine Marbella-Estepona shoreline. Inspired by the balanced bliss of Mediterranean living and Andalusian charm, the beachfront resort has 249 rooms and suites to choose from, each designed to be beautiful yet functional, with garden, sea, or pool-facing views. For those who wish to be at the heart of the conversation, Lifestyle Pool Rooms can be booked in advance, which have direct access to the Azure Beach Pool, providing immediate access to the hub of the resort.

The five-star resort has several restaurants to choose from, offering Italian and Greek cuisine. For those looking to taste some of Spain’s best tapas alongside a fine selection of wines, the elegant El Bar De Lola is the place to be.

The Moi spa is designed to soothe, pamper, and de-stress. Skilled therapists will help select the perfect treatment, from traditional massage and body treatments to holistic treatments to boost physical and mental health, with poolside cabanas available for tandem treatments.

For more information, visit www.mettsocialliving.com/marbella

HAWAII, UNITED STATES

The Rosewood Resort, steeped in centuries of preserved tradition, has reopened its doors. In addition to embodying Hawaii’s cultural heritage through craftsmanship, several of the accommodations feature a private lanai to encourage couples to enjoy as much time as possible in the open air. The custom architectural details, furnishings, and fixtures make the most of natural materials and showcase a rich sampling of textures.

There are 150 traditional guest rooms to choose from, five restaurants and bars, and Rosewood’s integrative wellness concept designed to support the mind, body and soul.

To find out more, visit www.rosewoodhotels.com 90

KALAHARI, SOUTH AFRICA

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve in South Africa has opened its new Loapi Tented Camp. Offering a wilderness experience in the largest privately protected area in South Africa, couples won’t need to share any communal spaces; instead, there are six private safari homes.

With expansive views across arid savannah grasslands, Loapi Tented Camp’s private homes are tucked into the contours of the ancient Korannaberg Mountains and can accommodate two or four guests.

Designed using contemporary glass and steel pavilions, the living and dining areas form the heart of each home, together with an open-plan kitchen, fully-stocked pantry and bar.

Discover more at https://tswalu.com

HONEYMOON NEWS

AE Expeditions

SVALBARD, NORWAY

The Science of the Arctic Expedition Cruise is perfect for couples who want to find out more about the most northern part of the world with a group of like-minded individuals. The perfect opportunity to deepen your connection to one of the world’s most rugged and remote archipelagos, travellers will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sight of polar bears, beluga whales, seals, walruses, reindeer, arctic foxes, and so much more.

Spending 10 days aboard the 104-metre, purpose-built, state-of-the-art Greg Mortimer expedition ship, couples will have the opportunity to listen to a range of exceptional talks, hike across the tundra, cruise past glacier fronts, marvel at fjords, and take to the water on zodiac boat safaris to get closer to some of the world’s most stunning landscapes.

Taking place on the 18th June 2024, transfers between airports, the hotel and ship, as well as internal flights between Oslo and Svalbard, are included.

Full details can be found at www.newscientist.com/tours

FRENCH ALPS, FRANCE

Enjoy a hearty dose of fresh mountain air at the Armancette Hôtel in the French Alps. Part of the new Almae Collection, Armancette Hôtel is a familyowned hidden gem in the lesser-known, remote town of Saint Nicolas Veroce in Evasion Mont-Blanc. Open year-round, this 19-room hotel is located within the former bakery of the village and offers total privacy, peace and tranquillity in exceptional surroundings. A plethora of activities are available, including guided hikes and mountain biking excursions, where guests can take in breathtakingly verdant views and disconnect from everyday life. Home to an impressive spa with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, an outdoor Jacuzzi, three treatment rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness suite, a restaurant, and a wine bar, there is plenty to keep couples entertained.

Visit www.scottdunn.com for more information.

FLORIDA, UNITED STATES

Recently reopened after a $65million transformation, The Boca Raton has been entirely redesigned by the renowned architecture and design firm, Rockwell Group. Paying homage to the pink hues of Boca Raton, the tower’s exterior has been refreshed to a light coastal pink, giving a fresh take on Barbie’s dreamhouse, featuring 224 suites and rooms, each with flexible configurations.

Set amongst 200 lake and oceanfront acres, couples are invited to experience the luxury rooms, culinary concepts, a private golden beach, a spa, an 18-hole golf course, a racquet club, a pool club, and much more.

Head over to www.thebocaraton.com for more information.

SICILY, ITALY

Tenuta Zisola lies in south-eastern Sicily, the birthplace of the Nero d’Avola grape, and is just a stone’s throw from Noto, a world heritage site famous for its Baroque architecture. Open all year round for wine enthusiasts, Tenuta Zisola is offering new, diversified wine tours with something to suit everyone.

Six wines are produced at Tenuta Zisola, four red and two white, with the aim of bringing out the finest qualities of the historic Nero d’Avola grape. Couples stopping at Zisola can stroll through the 50 hectares of property that extend around the estate, which offers marvellous views of Noto and the surrounding gardens cultivated with vineyards, as well as citrus, olive, and almond trees.

Check out https://uk.mazzei.it for more information.

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Rural

ROMANCE

www.crillonlebrave.com

Olivia Gibson discovers the delights of Provence at Hôtel Crillon le Brave

BREAKFAST IS SERVED While strolling through the labyrinth of 17th- and 18th-century buildings, hand-in-hand, we had to take a step back to bask in the gentle breeze, chirping birds and the occasional church bells. Together it created the ideal atmosphere to relax while enjoying a delicious Provençal buffet for breakfast on the panoramic terrace. What better way to start the morning than by eating delicious food while enjoying such breathtaking and wide-ranging views? We tucked into homemade pastries, fresh fruit and granola on our first morning before enjoying a cooked breakfast with freshly baked breads on our second day ‒ the Nyons olive bread is a must try!

PAMPERING PLANS

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The Spa des Écuries is the perfect location to relax with various beauty,

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body and facial treatments. Located in an ancient 18th-century stonevaulted stable with three treatment rooms, one of which is a double room, the team has paid close attention to the spa with cosy features and charming touches to create a calming atmosphere. After being greeted by the beauty therapist, I was whisked away to a room for an expertly executed massage. During my hour-long treatment, the masseuse went to town tackling my problem areas using traditional massage techniques to help me relax, reduce muscle tension throughout my body, and promote blood circulation. I felt all my worries melt away, as well as my knots. An aroma of essential oils filled the dark-lit room and I almost drifted off! The intimate setting combines gentle and effective approaches to enhancing overall wellbeing – I felt fully disconnected from the outside world, bliss!

REST AND RELAX With 17 bedrooms and 17 suites, the hotel offers a stunning range of spaces for all celebrations. Our beautiful suite was complete with a spacious bedroom, lounge area and bathroom with all the amenities needed. The interior was something out of a storybook with a charming style, plush furnishing, neutral materials, an ornate fireplace and a green colour scheme. The red floor tiles are typical of Provence and can be seen throughout the space, through to the bathroom, which has a freestanding bathtub, double sinks and a spacious shower. The luxurious touches continued to the living room with a flat-screen TV, minibar, tasteful artwork, comfortable sofas and armchairs. With the summer approaching, we were thankful for the adjustable air conditioning too!

Sleeping in the large, king-sized bed was like laying on a fluffy cloud.

The large windows overlooking the valley allowed plenty of natural light for a gentle and calming morning wake-up call, leaving us feeling wellrested and rejuvenated.

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nown for its diverse landscapes, picturesque views, iconic lavender fields, vineyards and Mediterranean coastline, Provence is the ultimate honeymoon destination that oozes romance at every turn. When the opportunity arose to visit Maisons Pariente’s Hotel Crillon le Brave, I packed my bags and headed to the airport alongside my partner for a magical stay at the sought-after property.

After a short flight and transfers to the five-star destination, we were welcomed by the oh-so-accommodating staff, who gave us a personal tour of the hotel. The charming spaces captured our hearts from the moment we arrived – it was like something out of a movie! The architecture made from blond Crillon stone is perched at the top of the village, boasting captivating views of Mont-Ventoux and the surrounding rolling countryside. Every corner of the private setting offered a stunning backdrop to escape the outside world and disconnect for a while.

and passionate chefs, the service was impeccable on both evenings.

My favourite beverage of the trip was the La Douceur de Crillon, a must-try cocktail featuring white peach, apricot from Roussillon, homemade lavender syrup and prosecco – yum! After our meals, we spent time in the bar area, the oldest house in the hotel. Located on the ground floor of the Maison Roche, this gorgeous space provides a cosy setting to relax with a drink in hand, especially with the extensive wine menu! An equally wonderful setting to relax during the day with a game of chess, whilst taking a break from the sun.

THE FINAL VERDICT After such a memorable experience, I cannot recommend Hôtel Crillon le Brave enough! It’s the ultimate setting for romantic honeymoons, with a rural location, spectacular views, delicious dishes, charming buildings and a tranquil setting. The magical trip will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we have many memories to treasure for years – we will definitely be returning!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

EXPLORE PROVENCE

As a massive foodie, I was excited to try the local cuisine. Hôtel Crillon le Brave has two on-site restaurants offering local produce. Head chef Adrien Brunet has presented new menus with locally sourced delicacies, inviting guests on a gourmet journey through Provence. La Madeleine is a Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant that offers a spectacular experience on a panoramic terrace with must-see views. Expertly balancing textures and flavours, the team has created a gourmet menu with extraordinary dishes exquisitely presented.

The bistronomic restaurant, La Table du Ventoux, has a relaxed atmosphere, and Adrien has created a classic menu inspired by the best of southern France. We were privileged to dine at the restaurant twice.

On the first night, I enjoyed the tempura scampi for starter, with shiso and juice extract, before tucking it into the Ardèche trout with watercress ravioli and lemongrass broth. I finished off the meal with a soft and fluffy Fraisier cake, which melted in my mouth! On our second evening, I opted for the fish bouillabaisse with a delicious sauce and spring vegetables, followed by the lamb Wellington with chlorophyll, nut-brow buttered polenta, and bay leaf. What better way to finish the meal than with a lemon cheesecake finger adorned with gold flakes? Thanks to the attentive staff

Local attractions and nearby entertainment!

•Discover the beautiful village and stunning views on an electric scooter or bike.

•Visit the iconic lavender fields that flower mid-June to the end of July.

•Calling all wine lovers, discover the many local vineyards and meet the passionate teams behind them.

•Arrange a rural picnic with the team, who will supply local products for romantic lunches.

•With multiple golf courses nearby, why not swing a few golf clubs for some friendly competition?

BOOK IT! Place de l’Eglise, 84410 Crillon-le-Brave, France www.crillonlebrave.com 0490 656 161 reservations@crillonlebrave.com

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MAKING A SPLASH I was desperate to catch some rays after the winter months, and the pool area at Hôtel Crillon le Brave was just what we needed! The heated, turquoise water overlooked the surrounding countryside and provided just enough space to get some morning lengths in. We spent most of our time in the tranquil setting, whether having a dip or enjoying the peaceful atmosphere with a good book. With multiple sun loungers scattered around, guests can easily find the perfect location to sit, whether it’s in the sun or under an umbrella.

For the fitness-fanatics, the on-site fitness room boasts all the equipment needed to break a sweat; I recommend enjoying some morning yoga to start the day off before breakfast.

Alternatively, I would recommend taking part in some friendly competition with a game of Pétanque, a French sport with the objective of getting boules closest to a target. I’m happy to announce that I won most of our games!

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HONEYMOON

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Climbing aboard the hotel ’s catamaran

Magical

MAURITIUS

Editor Claire Ridley fell in love with this year-round honeymoon hotspot A LUXURY RETREAT

Greetings from Île Plate

Nestled on the north coast of the island in Anse la Raie (a popular kite surfing spot) sits the five-star, eco-committed boutique hotel Paradise Cove. With Mauritius fast becoming a sustainable island, Paradise Cove’s effort to go green includes being part of the Positive Impact Movement (created by the Attitude hotel group) ensuring local sourcing and no single-use plastic.

ROOM WITH A VIEW

Admiring the sunset Love nest with a view

Chilling out in The Spa

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I was excited to visit this adults-only tropical paradise, an acclaimed Small Luxury Hotels of the World, having benefitted from a renovation in 2019.

It offers a warm welcome with 75 rooms and suites including the Deluxe Premium Rooms, one of which was to become my home for three blissful nights. This honeymoon hideout has been authentically designed in the island’s signature style with wood, rattan and tropical palm-print wallpaper and furnishings.

The rooms have been positioned to admire the panoramic cove views, along with the cluster of other areas that make up this glamorous getaway.

Centred around the main reception built under a charming thatch roof is the stylish STAY bar; the complimentary tea bar boasting locally grown flavours; the main swimming pool where I enjoyed an early morning dip each day and The Dining Room restaurant where the delicious buffet breakfast was brimming with exotic flavours.

overlooking the jetty and lagoon with far-flung views stretching across to the five north islands in one direction, and the new infinity pool (that’s heated during the winter months) in the other. A highlight was an invite to the launch of the new five-course vegan fine dining experience by Michelin-starred Chef Alexis Gauthier. I tucked into a fondant heart of palm made with pressed watermelon followed by a semi-confit cut of giraumon with a medley of grains and wild rice. The lychee wine is a must-try while you’re on the island, it became my favourite tipple of the trip!

RIDING THE OCEAN WAVES I was lucky enough to hop on board the hotel’s 12-seat catamaran for a full-day cruise around Îlot Gabriel and Île Plate (also known as the Flat Island).

After settling in for a suntan, and a delicious barbecue lunch, the boat reached Coin de Mire where it was time to grab my swimmers and jump into the warm Indian Ocean to snorkel (dive enthusiasts can scuba dive here).

Looking to make a memory on a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon? Then book a sunset cruise or the Stargazing experience with an astrologer out on the jetty which is just one of the many You&Me Moments the resort offers.

Back on land, activities include yoga, Tai Chi, a gym plus two floodlit tennis courts. One of my favourite pastimes was relaxing in the cute love nests dotted around the grounds, promising privacy for honeymooners.

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

ISLAND ESCAPE

There’s so much choice between the four restaurants at this dreamy destination with a Dine-Around experience available in three of them for half-board and all-inclusive guests. For delicious sushi, the à la carte Japanese XO restaurant won’t disappoint while if it’s seafood you’re after, try the Cove Restaurant’s private kiosks on the sand for catch of the day.

I was in for a treat at the trendy Peninsular Restaurant and bar perched

The wellness journey starts the moment you enter the lush open-air spa where

the tempting treatments are known as Beauty Rituals of the World of the organic French brand Cinq Mondes.

I indulged in a 50-minute full body massage with therapist Samantha who used a scented pure coconut oil made on the island. Dreaming of a couple’s massage in one of the love nests at the water’s edge? Consider it done!

WITH LOVE FROM MAURITIUS Step back in time at the historic Château De Labourdonnais, a twostorey, colonial-style Creole mansion and heritage site which was once a sugar plantation. This local landmark boasts French-style furnishings plus an orchard in the grounds that contributes to the fruit production on the island.

There’s a rum distillery, plus you’ll be spoilt by the menu choice at La Table du Château, (https://domainedelabourdonnais.com).

No trip to Mauritius is complete without a visit to the vibrant capital city of Port Louis with its street markets and bustling scenes - it was a fun way to fill my Insta feed at every turn!

TRAVEL SNAPSHOT Couples can get married at Paradise Cove – the Classic Wedding Package includes locally grown flowers, no single-use plastic and locally sourced ingredients for the dinner – a romantic Renewal of Vows is also an option.

Stay at five-star Paradise Cove boutique hotel from £334 per room each night, based on two people sharing a Deluxe Premium Room on a half-board basis, www.paradisecovehotel.com/en www.instagram.com/paradisecovehotel www.facebook.com/ParadiseCoveHotel

HONEYMOONS

Loving the snorkelling trail at Lagoon Attitude

Soaking up the rays at Sunrise Attitude

Chilling out at Gran Zil, Zilwa Attitude

A WARM WELCOME I was invited to stay at the newly opened adults-only Sunrise Attitude, a four-star hotel committed to tourism with a positive impact with 153 rooms commanding prime position on the east coast. It’s opposite the powder-white sandy beach at Belle Mare boasting picture-perfect views of the clear lagoon which I couldn’t wait to swim in.

Beach volley is a pastime here, along with sundowners on the shore - the local Phoenix Beer is a must-try!

Stand-out features include eight villas with plunge pools where you can wake up to room service. The 28 swimup rooms are another fab offering for honeymooners, linking each terrace to the main Papaya Pool and swim-up bar, plus there’s also Bar 31 boasting a stunning view of the beach and pool.

As with all eight Attitude properties, Sunrise Attitude has been designed in keeping with the local surroundings, marrying earthy tones with on-trend, hand-crafted furnishings created by local artisans using locally sourced materials including raffia.

In their bid to eliminate single-use plastic, this eco resort provides you with a reusable water bottle and tea and coffee are collected from reusable glass jars at the Bulk Shop - don’t miss sampling the local passionfruit, mango and vanilla tea!

DINE IN STYLE

Headphones on at Secret Sunrise

Learning to cook Mauritian style at dinner with Concita

I had high expectations for an authentic tapas-style dinner at the brand’s signature Kot Nou restaurant (present at all Attitude hotels) and I wasn’t disappointed – you can take a cookery class here to learn the local recipes.

Similar to Paradise Cove, the DineAround option allows you to pick between three restaurants on a halfboard basis where you’ll be spoilt for choice! The Market restaurant specialises in local and international delicacies using the freshest seasonal and sustainable ingredients – I tucked into vegan pancakes for breakfast.

The Social House restaurant and bar is an informal setting playing live music during the evening where I shared tasty vegan platters, and my favourite spot for lunch had to be Taba-j, the brightly painted kiosk serving traditional takeout street food. I couldn’t get enough of the local roti washed down with alouda (a Mauritian milkshake).

Experience one of your first meals as newlyweds with an invite to a local team member’s home for an Otentik dinner. My host was Concita Fortuno, who welcomed me for a wonderful evening of food, music and dance – she even taught me how to cook gateaux piment (chilli bites!)

EARLY TO RISE I couldn’t wait to experience the Secret Sunrise guided meditation to music on the beach – even if it did mean getting up earlier than normal! Chilling out wearing headphones, it was an experience I’ll never forget. It’s free and takes place twice a week and a private 20-minute session can be arranged, with large groups invited to experience the interactive dance session.

LET THE MAGIC HAPPEN I indulged in treatments at the new Spa POZ (meaning to relax and take a break). Dotted within this tranquil leafy space are single and double open-air creole treatment huts, a salt hammam (that helps to soothe skin problems) and a beauty salon. The vegan spa products packaged in reusable tins are handmade on the island using local plants with 5% of each purchase at Spa POZ (and from the Otentik Bazaars selling souvenirs) donated to

the Green Attitude Foundation helping fund sustainable development projects.

WISH YOU WERE HERE Why not split your stay between the three and four-star Attitude hotels that cater for most budgets in adults-only and family-friendly properties? Coin de Mire Attitude offers great value for money (https://hotels-attitude. com/en/ coin-de-mire-attitude) while Lagoon Attitude boasts 182 rooms including ten romantic whirlpool suites (https://hotels-attitude.com/ en/lagoon-attitude). It’s home to the Marine Discovery Centre, dedicated to the preservation of the marine ecosystem from where I set sail on a glass-bottom boat for a snorkelling trail to marvel at the underwater world.

If you’re lucky, you might spot some whales from the boat ride too!

I was fortunate to visit Tropical Attitude with its 58 sea-facing rooms and 11 villas with private pools where a floating breakfast can be served (https://hotels-attitude.com/en/ tropical-attitude). A complimentary boat trip departs twice daily from here to the untouched Ile aux Cerfs where I sunbathed on the pure white sand.

If you’re searching for a fun-filled family-moon then head to Zilwa Attitude (https://hotels-attitude.com/ en/zilwa-attitude) which faces the northern islands. I couldn’t wait to take the raft over to Gran Zil for a beach barbecue lunch and chill out in an over-water hammock - I didn’t want to leave. Weddings take place here, with exclusive use of the island booked creating memories made in Mauritius.

TRAVEL SNAPSHOT Stay at four-star Sunrise Attitude hotel from £155 per room each night, based on two people sharing a Couple Room on a half-board basis, https://hotels-attitude.com/en/sunrise-attitude www.instagram.com/attitudehotels www.facebook.com/HotelsAttitude PASSPORT AT THE READY I flew direct to Mauritius with Air Mauritius from London Heathrow. Prices start from £709 return in economy class, www.airmauritius.com 95

Total

BODY BLISS

Louise Prance visited Warwickshire’s Ardencote Spa, where she experienced total body bliss and a weekend of wellness…

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ocated in Warwickshire, Ardencote Spa is easily accessible for a spa day or weekend away, however, upon arriving down the leafy drive, you feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Set in 83 acres of landscaped gardens, Ardencote is a modern hotel and destination spa offering everything needed for a weekend of wellness after the big day. A pool, treatment rooms,18-hole golf course, leisure facilities, tennis courts and a restaurant and bar await for a blissful UK-based honeymoon.

Upon arrival my partner and I were shown to our sizeable, wellequipped room, one of 110 at the hotel, that overlooked the stunning outdoor pool and jacuzzi. After settling in, this was exactly where we headed first. Whilst the weather was on the cold side for the pool, the temperature of the jacuzzi was just right for a lengthy soak, glass of fizz in hand.

Not much could have dragged us away from this lap of luxury, but a full body massage was calling and much needed. Of all the massages I’ve had, this one was up there and highly recommended. If the jacuzzi float had left any aches and pains, the massage certainly rid me of any further niggles!

Furthering our relaxation, we induldged in the many spa rooms, including the Himalayan salt sauna, and after final dip in the atmospheric indoor pool the sun loungers were just perfect for whiling away the hours with a good book or post-wedding reminiscing.

Feeling a world away from the stresses of everyday life, we enjoyed a luxurious afternoon nap on the sumptuous bed, before getting ready for a delicious dinner at the 1 Rosette Brasserie, which complements the existing and ever-popular Conservatory Bar. I was treated to a delicious vegan burger, while my companion enjoyed a mouth-watering tagine, of course polished off with sizeable desserts.

Heading to the bar for a night cap, the aura of calm permeates every aspect of Ardencote and it wasn’t long before we took ourselves to bed,

feeling fully rested, content and peaceful.

After a leisurely lie-in the next morning, we headed down for breakfast before another dip in the pool and a stroll around the extensive grounds.

If you’re so inclined, you can take part in racket sports tennis, squash and racquetball or table tennis, or take in a round of golf ‒ the winddown options are endless.

AN ILLUSTRIOUS HISTORY Ardencote dates back to 1863, when it was built as the dowry house for Mary the daughter of Thomas Phillips, a wool manufacturer from Manchester. Having passed through many hands, and having undergone many extensions and updates since then, the beautiful estate was purchased by local entrepreneur Mr Huckerby in 1996.

The Huckerby family still retains ownership, making Ardencote a truly family-run, independent hotel.

BOOK IT! Ardencote Hotel & Spa 01926 843 111 www.ardencote.com

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COMPETITION

WIN

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A ROMANTIC BREAK IN YORKSHIRE WORTH £1,000

rinkle Park Hotel is a stunning and luxurious baronial country house set in 35 acres of land between the North Yorkshire Moors and villages and beaches of the Yorkshire coast. With its magnificent grounds and a choice of reception rooms to cater for both intimate and larger celebrations, it is the ideal setting and venue for a romantic post-vow minimoon or an extra special North Yorkshire wedding.

Classic Lodges is a nationwide collection of exclusive hotels that all have their own exceptional and charming character, whether that’s a peaceful country getaway or a city centre stay. Each of the hotels provides a friendly, relaxing atmosphere while maintaining Classic Lodges’ signature style, comfort and luxury. Steeped in history, all of the hotels have equally stunning views to accompany the suites and rooms.

To book a stay with Classic Lodges, please visit www.classiclodges.co.uk

THE PRIZE One lucky reader will win a luxury two-night stay for two at Grinkle Park. The winner of this fantastic prize will be greeted with a glass of Lanson Champagne upon arrival and enjoy a three-course dinner for two on the first night before settling down for a good night’s sleep in a double room. The prize also includes a delicious full Yorkshire breakfast or continental version both mornings. For your chance to win, head to our website www.yourbristolsomerset.wedding and answer this question: Q: Grinkle Park Hotel is situated in how many acres of land?

Terms and conditions apply.

Good luck!

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Visit us online at www.yourbristolsomerset.wedding, www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com

A rustic wedding venue in Bath with countryside surroundings Celebrate with your loved ones at our Bath Mill wedding venue Unlike most wedding venues in Somerset, Bath Mill Lodge Retreat offers traditional yet quirky décor which is nestled between trees and a babbling brook. The Newton Suite at Bath Mill Lodge Retreat creates the most idyllic and tranquil setting for your wedding reception.

The thing that makes our Bath mill wedding venue so unique is that it is located within a beautifully restored 350 year old mill house. During your special day you will be able to take advantage of the private bar, dance floor, private entrance and secluded patio area.

Our team has plenty of experience when it comes to organising weddings in Bath, so you will be in safe hands throughout the whole process. They organise many special events and occasions so we can ensure that all of their efforts are put in to helping you create your perfect big day.

www.darwinescapes.co.uk/bath-mill-lodge-retreat B AT H

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