Your Cheshire and Merseyside Wedding - September/October 2023(Issue 71)

REGULARS

7 EDITOR’S LETTER

A warm welcome from Kelly

9 NEARLYWED NEWS

Catch up on news from around the region

13 FREEBIES & OFFERS

Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

57 HOT TOPIC: THIS TIME IT’S PERSONAL!

Local experts offer stellar advice on personalising your wedding day

89 COMPETITION

Win a romantic break in Yorkshire worth £1,000

VENUES

15 SPOTLIGHT ON... Metropoliton Borough of Sefton

21 OUTSIDE THE BOX

Tie the knot at a quirky, unusual or characterful local venue for a big day that’s unique and unforgettable

On the cover

This issue’s oh-so romantic cover was captured by With Love Rose Photography (www.withloverosephotography.co.uk) in the grounds of North Wales’ enchanting Château Rhianfa (https://chateaurhianfa.co.uk). For more glorious images from this shoot, turn to page 45.

FEATURES

45 FLIRTY, FRESH, FAIRYTALE VIBES

This team set out to bring a destination wedding feel to this modern and oh-so romantic local shoot

49 A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

We talked to the region’s experts to discover how they can help you with your al fresco nuptials and picked their brains for some top tips

53 YOU DRIVE ME CRAZY

Local wedding transport options to inspire

60 WISHING HUE A WONDERFUL WEDDING DAY

Check out our wedspirational guide to palette perfection whatever the season

FASHION & BEAUTY

62 FASHION FOCUS

The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches

63 STYLE ALERT

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

64 ALL DRESSED UP

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

69 STANDOUT SLEEVES

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

76 BEAUTY Q&A

Our local professionals solve your problems

77 BEST FACE FORWARD

We investigate the much-discussed bridal musthave treatment, HydraFacial

78 BEAUTY BUZZ

Get the look with the latest must-haves

80 LADY OF THE DANCE

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

GROOMS

72 GROOMS’ NEWS

The latest best buys and product launches

73 SKIN DEEP

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

74 SOMETHING BLUE

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

REAL WEDDINGS

26 THE BEAR NECESSITIES

Jade and Jordan tied the knot at Cheshire View with their sights set on sustainability and plenty of cute nods to their marital surname

33 EAT, DRINK AND BE MARRIED

Ellie and Rhys said “I do” at Old Palace Chester in June, 2023

39 LIFE IS GRAND

Emily and Mike set out to style their fairytale castle to full effect and packed it to the rafters with stunning florals

HONEYMOONS

82 HONEYMOON NEWS

Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials

84 RURAL ROMANCE

Discover the delights of Provence at Hôtel Crillon le Brave

86 MAGICAL MAURITIUS

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

88 TOTAL BODY BLISS

Experience a weekend of wellness and total body bliss at Warwickshire’s Ardencote Spa

ADVERTISING

Account Manager

Gillian Ward | 01376 538 485 gillian.ward@county.wedding

Autumnal creations

Yes,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 too. 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.

Win!

EDITORIAL

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

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 to life when given a harvest-time twist.

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

This issue we’ve got a stunning styled shoot for you offering a whole heap of wedspiration from the coast of North Wales. Meanwhile, if you’re planning your al fresco nuptials for next summer and beyond, don’t miss our outdoor wedding feature where you’ll find a host of suppliers giving us the benefit of their wisdom on the matter. Then, to get you to the church (or venue) on time, you’ll need wedding transport you can rely on. So, the region’s suppliers have stepped up to show us their favourite, stylish vehicles.

As ever, enjoy and keeeep planning!

Kelly x

Kelly Andrews, editor

@CountyWeddingMagazines

@CountyWeddings

@countyweddingmagazines

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

49 PEEK-A-BOO!

Outdoor weddings are so much fun. A whole new world of possibilities opens up to you, allowing you to get really creative. My favourite idea from this issue is a champagne and confetti pony! This little darling, Skittles from Cheshire Pony Parties, will deliver the goodies as your guests mix and mingle post-vows. A must in my book!

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 Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding is published six times a year.

26 W-DAY STALWART

Jade and Jordan, Mr & Mrs Bear, knew instantly that Cheshire View was the venue for them. “This was largely thanks to venue manager Mark who was invaluable in ensuring we had the most incredible wedding day,” Jade explains. “Nothing was too much trouble and the support given went even further than we could have imagined.”

89 WIN!

A romantic break in Yorkshire worth £1,000

45 CINEMA PARADISO

Shoot photographer Rose Stelfox brought some classic movie-inspired black and white frames to the mix to emulate the vintage and nostalgic atmosphere at Château Rhianfu and they’re amongst my favourites. Simply stunning.

DATE FOR THE DIARY

Doubletree by Hilton Chester is conveniently situated between the M53 and the city centre. It lies within a 40-minute drive of both Manchester and Liverpool international airports, and Chester mainline railway station is just a two-mile drive away. With a stunning and lovingly restored 18th-century manor house, Grade II English Heritage conservatory and a converted stable barn, you’re ensured a magical and memorable special day here.

You can check the venue out for yourselves at its wedding fair due to take place on Sunday 29th October, 11am-3pm. Head over and discover this stunning venue, meet with top local suppliers, and begin your planning journey. The dedicated wedding specialists here will be on hand to answer your questions and guide you through everything you need to know. Find out more at www.doubletreechester.co.uk

Nearlywed NEWS

LUXURY FOR LESS

If you’re planning an intimate winter wedding, let the Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa play host to your dream day as you take advantage of its new Luxury For Less package for early 2024. Picture your big day at this Chester wedding venue and enjoy fantastic savings in January and February 2024.

For just £4,500 based on 50 day and 80 evening guests this new package includes: full drinks package (welcome drink, one drink with meal and toast drink per guest), three course wedding breakfast plus coffee for your day guests, buffet for evening guests, dedicated wedding coordinator, master of ceremonies, resident DJ, red carpet arrival, personalised table plans and menus, cake base and knife, chair covers and organza bows or Chivari chairs, table mirrors and decorative centrepieces, top table and cake table organza swag, complimentary civil ceremony room hire (usually £595), complimentary light-up love letters (usually £110), and complimentary superior bedroom for the newlyweds.

Terms and conditions apply. Get in touch to find out more at 01244 570 560 or via weddings@grosvenorpulfordhotel.co.uk. Also, check out www.grosvenorpulfordhotel.co.uk

AHEAD OF THE CURVE

My Funny Valentine in Chester is proud to announce its very first curve pop-up event for beautiful mid- and plus-sized brides. From the 6th to 19th October, 2023, the boutique’s gorgeous bridal basement will be home to this very special event, offering sample gowns to try on in sizes 14 to 22. There will also be extra special discounts for all brides ordering gowns from the event.

If you’re looking for your dream gown, grab your besties and book, either through the website at www.mfvbridal.com stating “Curve Event” in the notes, or email hello@mfvbridal.com

MORE DATES FOR THE DIARY

Get your fill of planning and wedspiration at a variety of wedding fairs happening across the region this season.

Sunday 10th September, 2023 11am-3pm

Chester Racecourse Wedding Fayre https://bouquetandbells.com

Sunday 10th September, 2023 12pm-3pm

The North Wales Wedding Fayre at Ruthin Castle

https://redeventweddingfayres.com

Saturday 16th September, 2023 12pm-3pm

The Cheshire Wedding at Nantwich Civic Hall

https://redeventweddingfayres.com

Sunday 24th September, 2023 12pm-4pm

Swettenham Arms Wedding Open Day https://swettenhamarms.co.uk

Sunday 1st October, 2023 12pm-3pm

Luxury Cheshire Wedding Fayre at Cottons Hotel & Spa https://redeventweddingfayres.com

Sunday 8th October, 2023 12pm-3pm

A Luxury Chester & Cheshire Wedding Fayre at Rowton Hall https://redeventweddingfayres.com

Sunday 15th October, 2023 12pm-3pm

Aintree Racecourse Luxury Liverpool Wedding Show https://redeventweddingfayres.com

Sunday 22nd October, 2023 11am-3pm

Carden Park Wedding Fayre https://bouquetandbells.com

Sunday 22nd October, 2023 12pm-3pm

Luxury Liverpool Wedding Show at Formby Hall

https://redeventweddingfayres.com

Sunday 29th October, 2023 10am-4pm

Tatton Park Wedding Open Day www.tattonpark.org.uk

EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSES

Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa brings a new rose-inspired spa day to its exceptional experiences in partnership with luxury skincare brand Elemis. The Elemis Rose Champagne Spa day has been designed with pure bliss in mind!

Exclusively available at the Hotel, the experience celebrates 15 years of Hand Picked Hotels working with Elemis. Inspired by the beauty of the gardens there and Elemis’ new Rose Micro Serum, treatments are aimed at restoring a youthful bloom to skin and fresh energy to the body and soul.

Centred around a 55-minute limited-edition Elemis Rose Facial, spa visitors are guaranteed an experience that awakens the senses and transports them to the beauty and relaxation of an English rose garden. As the serene scent fills the air, expert spa therapists will use specialist facial massage techniques to deeply cleanse the face using Elemis’ Rosewood Essence, Pro-Collagen Rose Balm Cleanser and Oil, leaving guests’ skin feeling blissfully soft and hydrated.

To complete the experience, guests will then be treated to a rose-themed afternoon tea, complete with a chilled glass of Villa Saletta Spumante – a light, sparkling rosé made in Tuscany from 100 per cent Sangiovese grapes.

What’s more, spa-goers can enjoy the spa facilities, including sauna, steam rooms, indoor pool, hydrotherapy pool, amber lounge and relaxation room. Ensuring guests can continue their rose experience at home, the package also includes an Elemis Pro-Collagen Micro Serum gift.

Elemis Rose Champagne Spa Day is priced from £125 per person, with overnight stays at Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa from £323. Find out more at www.handpickedhotels.co.uk

GOING TO THE CHAPEL

Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa’s exquisite chapel is now licenced to hold civil wedding ceremonies in addition to the already impressive grounds. The chapel dates back as far as 1656 boasting an array of stunning architecture.

Located in the heart of Cheshire, Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa is a Grade I listed Jacobean mansion originally owned by the influential Crewe family. The chapel was built as a place of worship for the family and their staff. Steeped in rich history, the chapel boasts 12 ornate stained-glass windows depicting the apostles, as well as alabaster and marble carvings. Back in the 17th century, when services were conducted in the original chapel, the Crewe family sat in their own pew in the gallery above, which they entered through their own private door upstairs.

The weddings team is now taking bookings for civil ceremonies as well as non-religious events within the chapel. It’s a truly special element to include in your day. Ideal for intimate occasions, it can seat up to 40 guests, with additional capacity for 35 standing behind the pews and on the upper balcony. Receptions can then be carried on within the hotel’s other historical spaces such as The Drawing Room, The Long Gallery or The Great Library. With a whole realm of function suites available, this idyllic 17th-century mansion, with manicured grounds, elegant rooms and spectacular views is made for unforgettable weddings.

Find out more at www.weddingsatcrewehall.love

LIVERPOOL’S ICONIC WEDDING VENUE CONSERVATORY

The Isla Gladstone conservatory is a magnificent glass building nestled in the heart of Liverpool’s Stanley Park. The venue is licenced to host civil ceremonies and has it’s own fairy tale Bandstand on site.

Surrounded by breathtaking views, the sun flooded interior is the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos.

WINTER, SPRING, SUMMER OR FALL – THE ISLA GLADSTONE IS THE PERFECT CHOICE FOR ALL!

START YOUR HAPPILY EVERY AFTER TODAY

Contact the events team to find out more about last minute availability and discounted rates until March 2024.

A Destination Wedding Venue, Offering Weekend Exclusivity

A Destination Wedding Venue in North Wales, two minutes from the stunning beaches of the Llyn Peninsula and the mountains of Snowdonia.

Talhenbont Hall Estate is nestled in 100 acres of ancient woodland and gardens on the stunning Llyn Peninsula, North Wales, an area of outstanding natural beauty. It is the perfect location for the wedding celebration of your dreams.

The most idyllic place to host your wedding reception along with a spectacular terrace overlooking the River Dwyfach, a picture-perfect spot to conduct your outdoor ceremony.

At Talhenbont Hall you are offered a bespoke service that is tailored to meet your specific requirements.

Completely private, exclusive and a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily City life, you and your guests will be totally relaxed at our beautiful Country Estate. Talhenbont Hall is a dream destination wedding venue.

Talhenbont Hall, Chwilog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd, North Wales, LL53 6SZ 01766 810247 | enquiries@talhenbonthall.co.uk www.talhenbonthall.co.uk

Freebies & OFFERS

Great discounts and gorgeous giveaways up for grabs

GET 10% OFF YOUR BIG-DAY BAKE WITH CAKE ON THE LAKE

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 threepiece set of Royal Pearl pieces worth £237. For your chance to win enter via our website, www.yourcheshiremerseyside.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.yourcheshiremerseyside.wedding

Clare Deary is a professional celebration and wedding cake designer from Liverpool. Her continued drive and passion for beautiful bakes has earned her business, Cake On The Lake, a reputation for exquisite designs. This local lovely creates handcrafted keepsake sugar models and flowers, along with flawlessly elegant wedding cakes that will leave you mouthwatering memories of this special time in your lives. From initial enquiry through to delivery and set up of her beautiful creations, Clare will work closely with you both to offer a tailored service ensuring you’re left with a big-day bake that truly reflects you and your special day.

Whether you’re looking for an exquisite show-stopper or a unique and quirky design, Cake On The Lake has you covered. Your sweet centrepiece will be made from the freshest locallysourced ingredients to make sure you’ll taste the love and quality in every bite. Mouthwatering flavour options include dreamy chocolate, Biscoff, salted caramel, luscious lemon, raspberry and white chocolate, and more.

We’ve partnered with Cake On The Lake to offer readers 10% off wedding cakes, along with free delivery and set up. To claim, simply get in touch on 07473 555 717 or via info@cakeonthelake.com and quote “Your Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding.” Offer valid until 31st October, 2023. Find out more at www.cakeonthelake.com

WATERFRONT SOUTHPORT HOTEL

SEFTON Spotlight on…

Tie the knot in a local hotspot

01704 516 220 | www.waterfrontsouthporthotel.co.uk

If you’re seeking a wedding venue that blends natural beauty, impeccable design, and exceptional service, look no further than the Waterfront Southport Hotel! Nestled on the shores of the tranquil Marine Lake, the Waterfront Southport Hotel offers an enchanting setting for your big day. This idyllic location provides sweeping views of the glistening Irish Sea and the iconic Blackpool skyline, creating a romantic atmosphere sure to captivate all assembled.

Just steps away from the hotel, the Millennium Bridge connects the mainland to the bustling Southport Pier, adding an extra touch of charm to the Hotel’s surroundings. For those seeking excitement and fun, the worldrenowned Pleasureland amusement park is situated nearby, offering a

myriad of thrilling rides and attractions. Your wedding guests will have the opportunity to extend their stay and explore this lively entertainment hub. Ceremonies are held in The Room with 180-degree views across the sparkling Marine Lake and the Irish Sea, which frame the 70s-inspired interiors. Room is a Pandora’s Box of beauty: giant disco balls shimmer over plush velvets, and intricate tiles and gorgeous greenery are all complemented by the coastal panorama. It can host 300 loved ones.

The Green Room, with its plush green velvet walls, and curved floor-toceiling views of the Southport Promenade, provides a stylish and intimate setting for your nuptials accompanied by 30 nearest and dearest. These two chic locations will also play host to your reception for 260 or 30 guests respectively.

The Hotel offers free menu-tastings, a dedicated wedding coordinator and a complimentary wedding-night stay for the two of you.

THE VINCENT HOTEL

01704 883 800 | https://thevincenthotel.com

The Vincent Hotel in Southport is a lifestyle hotel and stunning wedding venue based in the North West of England. Located on Southport’s Lord Street with its very own 59 stylish bedrooms including a luxurious Penthouse Suite, the venue is also home to the contemporary V Café & Restaurant offering a diverse British and European menu, along with an exclusive spa where you can experience peace and tranquillity.

Civil ceremonies take place in the elegant Parisienne Suite with its stunning views over the historical boulevards of Southport. The epitome of sophistication and romance, it’s equally suited to an intimate occasion or larger weddings with up to 130 guests. Should you prefer a religious ceremony, Southport is home to some of the most beautiful churches in

the area.

After the “I dos” welcome drinks and canapés will be served in the stylish bar while you catch up with family and friends or disappear for that all-important photo session.

The Parisienne Suite is also the perfect location for your wedding breakfast with its fabulous floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the suite with light and exude elegance. Not forgetting your very own private balcony, ideal for that perfect picture of all your guests for you to cherish forever. What’s more, the executive chef has designed an extensive menu using the finest, locally-sourced produce, which you can select from and personalise to create your bespoke wedding breakfast.

As the day draws to a close, it’s time to kick back and enjoy your entertainment along with a delicious buffet before dancing the night away.

MEOL’S

01704

HALL TITHE BARN

228 326 |

www.meolshall.co.uk

Situated among the stunning grounds of Meols Hall in the pretty village of Churchtown, the Tithe Barn offers quite the setting for a wedding. This exclusive 400-year-old candlelit barn has an atmosphere all of its own and sits near the historical 12th-century manor house. Plus, there are certainly some excellent photographic opportunities across the 100-acre estate.

The venue offers a complete package of catering, bar service, master of ceremonies and entertainment if you wish.

Ceremonies are hosted in the Tithe Barn with a minimum of 50 and maximum of 120 loved ones. Sympathetically restored by local craftsmen

the barn is full of rustic charm and features original brick walls and an open-beamed ceiling.

The wedding breakfast takes place in the lovely Tithe Barn, also with a maximum of 120 guests and an additional 30 welcome for the evening reception.

There’s also the tastefully-restored original coach house with its large French doors opening out onto the picturesque traditional cobbled courtyard. It comes complete with shepherds hut bar, heated parasols, patio tables, chairs and outdoor lanterns. This makes an ideal year-round outdoor/indoor venue for entertaining your nearest and dearest, as well as the perfect place to relax, enjoy welcome drinks and even a selection of delicious canapés.

THE LAKE HOUSE WATERLOO

0151 351 9076 | www.the-lake-house.co.uk

The Lake House is a lakeside haven in the heart of Sefton. Renowned as one of the most beautiful locations in the county, the Crosby Coast is an idyllic spot for any wedding. The venue’s new suites can be tailored to the day of your dreams and the team will be with you every step of the way. Packages include twilight, full-day with ceremony or reception only options.

The venue also boasts 14 bedrooms for you and your guests to use. There are double and family rooms with sofa beds and bunks. There are even group rooms with three sets of bunk beds if you want to stay the night before with your bride tribe and make a party of it!

ROYAL CLIFTON HOTEL

0871 222 1098 | www.royalclifton.co.uk

Ceremonies take place either in the Lake House Suite for 100 guests, or Lake View 1, 2 and 3 for 120. Both rooms overlook the lake and offer dreamy backdrops.

Depending on the size of your guest list, you can utilise either of the above suites. The Lake House Suite with its grand ceiling is the perfect party room, offering the ultimate space for live music.

Capacity here is 120 for the wedding breakfast and 150 for the evening reception. The venue offers a free food tasting for all of its couples. The venue’s team wholeheartedly believe that they offer the very best of the local area’s catering and the head chef and his team can create a bespoke menu to make it the right fit for you. From exquisite sit-down dinners to buffets and barbecues, or anything in between – the choice is yours.

Also check out...

THE GRAND

01704 334 533 | www.thegrand.co.uk

Located on Southport’s Promenade, set in a historical Victorian building the venue offers a range of packages for anything from the small and intimate celebration to larger weddings. It can cater for guest numbers from 50 for the wedding breakfast up to 200 for the evening do.

THE BOLD HOTEL

01704 532 578 | www.boldhotel.com

Having undergone a multi-million pound refurbishment, this venue is a historical jewel in Southport’s crown. Nestled at the end of a tree-lined boulevard, this beautifully-styled boutique hotel exudes elegance, glamour and sophistication.

FORMBY HALL GOLF RESORT & SPA

01704 875 699 | www.formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk

This venue boasts two contemporary function suites, 76 individuallydesigned bedrooms, a luxurious spa, state-of-the-art leisure facilities, and a world-class 18-hole golf course. Meanwhile, its gorgeous countryside setting offers some very special photo opportunities indeed.

Blending classic glamour and modern design to create an atmosphere of sophisticated charm, The Princess Grace Suite is a versatile venue for any wedding celebration. You can just imagine gliding up the sweeping staircase here as romantic notes rise from the piano below.

WARREN FARM WEDDINGS & EVENTS

www.facebook.com/warrenfarmweddings

Warren Farm, located in Formby, is a wedding and event venue nestled in more than 60 acres of rolling fields and woodland. If you’re dreaming of a rural wedding, Warren Farm is well worth a look with its eclectic mix of rustic and romantic elegance.

CROSBY HALL EDUCATIONAL TRUST

07557 902 207| www.chetcentre.org.uk

This 16th-century barn venue is a delightfully romantic setting for any rustic-inspired wedding day. It’s available for weddings on a limited amount of Saturdays throughout the year, so you’ll have to be quick if you fall in love with it!

Outside

THE BOX

We round up some of our favourite quirky local venues

ST LUKE’S BOMBED OUT CHURCH

0151 374 0366 | www.slboc.com

Tucked away in the heart of the Liverpool City Centre, this one-of-a-kind venue offers a picturesque, idyllic oasis away from the hustle and bustle. It’s an iconic landmark in the city and holds a wealth of history and memories – now it’s time to make your wedding day part of that!

From 1952, St Luke’s Bombed Out Church has been categorised as an official Grade II listed building, and due to its moving history, the church has since become a managed ruin that’s home to community projects, events, weddings and more. Specialising in bespoke big days, where no amount of guests is too few, the team will work with you to devise a seating plan and build the wedding of your dreams from the ground up since this is the epitome of a blank canvas venue. Maximum capacity is 250 and price and layout are discussed based on your requests.

An open-air ceremony within the church ruin gives you exclusive access to the inside grounds from 12pm to 2pm. White bistro chairs are available to you as well as the use of two church pews. Alternatively, you can opt for a Chancel Roof Ceremony, where you’ll also have access to the inside grounds from 12pm to 2pm, and have use of limewash chivari chairs with optional use of two church pews. There’s a clear roof marquee here

so you and your loved ones are sure to stay dry as you appreciate the impressive surroundings, and there’s an in-house PA with microphone, so everyone can hear every word of your promises to each other. You may also choose to opt for a rather grand-sounding Tower Ceremony, which as the name implies, is held in St Luke’s spectacular tower.

Receptions are hosted in a marquee covering the main seating, the bar and dancefloor. It’s illuminated by spectacular lighting including fairylights and Edison lamps, and is beautifully decorated with wisteria arrangements suspended from the roof. Your chosen entertainment can wow the crowds from the stage until 11pm, with carriages at 11.30pm. You’ll also have onsite security and a wedding coordinator on hand to help you throughout, as well as professional bartenders who will staff the built-in wooden bar.

St Luke’s Bombed Out Church works with a wide range of caterers to ensure your wedding has the perfect menu to suit your taste buds! From street food to an informal buffet to traditional wedding breakfasts the venue has established relationships with caterers across the North West. However, if there’s one you’d prefer to use, the team are happy to discuss with you and meet with them to make sure their setup is achievable within the Grade II listed building.

SCALE

07903

962 054 | www.scaleliverpool.com

Scale is a rare jewel of a warehouse venue located in the centre of Liverpool, ideal for a wedding with a difference. Located on the top floor of the Tapestry building, in the up-and-coming Fabric District, a creative hub just a stone’s throw from the city centre, it’s surrounded by incredible street art, neighbouring independents such as Melodic Distraction radio station, Ditto Coffee, Kempston St Studios and Hopscotch.

The tall ceiling features industrial A-frame beams with hanging festoon lighting and the perfect opportunity to drape flowers. Meanwhile reclaimed maple flooring and exposed brickwork not only offer modern and stylish wedding photography, but the ideal blank canvas to style as you wish.

The venue is officially licensed to hold legal civil partnerships and civil marriage ceremonies, however a celebrant-led service can still be offered as a beautiful addition to the day should you wish. Here, you can host up to 200 loved ones standing, while a maximum of 150 is recommended for seated events. It’s fully accessible with a disabled lift and bathroom.

Known for its trestle tables for dining, Scale is filled with rustic charm boasting heaps of space in the main function room complete with a

mezzanine – a space to step away from the party. Whether you have your hearts set on a traditional three-course sit-down meal, a more informal locally-sourced buffet or just a good old knees up, this space offers a wonderful backdrop and plenty of options to suit different needs. The fully-stocked bar area even comes with an LED message board for you to customise.

What’s more, if you’re looking to gather only your very nearest and dearest for a long lazy celebratory supper, the venue offers a reduced rate for weddings of 60 guests or fewer. This applies to midweek and Friday bookings only.

Scale works closely with its preferred catering partner, Fig and the Wild, which can provide anything from hand-crafted canapés and rustic sharing platters, to bespoke menus using local independent suppliers. External caterers are also welcome, all you need to do is let the team know if you’re after something specific and they’ll point you in the right direction. Plus, all bookings come with a free consultation with event stylist Spark Alice, and you’ll also be offered a discounted price on its services. Owner Hannah can liaise with suppliers on your behalf, organise everything from table linen to flowers and take the stress out of wedding planning for you. You also have the option of using the venue’s 80ft of festoon lighting, PA system and wireless microphones.

INVISIBLE WIND FACTORY hires@invisiblewindfactory.com | www.invisiblewindfactory.com

You can really bring an edge to your wedding day with Invisible Wind Factory’s production and hospitality. Not only will you and your loved ones have the time of your lives, but your big day will look and sound fantastic! With years of production experience, set design and technical resources at your disposal, the team can collaborate on realising your wedding dreams or simply offer you a blank canvas.

Formerly a wind turbine factory, the site on Regent Road in Liverpool’s Ten Streets area on the historical North Docks, is multi-purpose in every sense. In addition to the venue itself, the site is also home to the IWF Rollerdrome, Substation, Factory Garden, Factory Kitchen, Workshop

and Studios.

The Hall is a multi-purpose ex-industrial event space, ideal for that urban-chic vibe. It can accommodate 350 guests at table and bench row style seating or 250 seated cabaret style. Show curtains run the full length and width of the main hall two thirds down allowing it to operate as a smaller room with a smaller bar area or chill-out space. The Substation is the basement club event space. It features an in-house PA system and custom lighting. It can accommodate 350 standing, 150 seated theatre style or 150 seated on benches banqueting style.

For al fresco celebrations, the versatile outdoor garden space is ideal for daytime use. It can host 200 standing or 150 seated at tables on benches, banqueting style.

A wedding is a lifetime of memories, a celebration of two people, two hearts, and two families joining.

What better place to start this journey than in the luxurious surroundings of Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa. Nestled in 200 acres of lush, green parkland, the hotel offers the perfect setting for creating an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

With two contemporary function suites, the hotel also has 76 individually designed bedrooms, a luxurious spa, state-of-the-art leisure facilities, and a world class 18 hole golf course.

Coupled with our in-house team of dedicated and passionate wedding and events planners, and over 27 years of hosting weddings, we know exactly what is needed to make each wedding day truly special.

Wedding packages from only £4,999

Luxury Bridal Boutique

Our designers include:

Essense of Australia, Ellis, Paloma Blanca, Martin Thornburg, Mikaella, House of Saint Patrick & Richard Designs

THE VICARAGE

0330 137 3771 | www.flatcaphotels.com/the-vicarage

Nestled in the heart of leafy Cheshire, The Vicarage is perfectly placed to give you a memorable start to married life. A highly regarded heritage site dating back to the 17th-century, this beautifully revamped Grade II listed country venue on the outskirts of Cranage is now lovingly restored, restyled and ready to charm its way into your heart!

A relaxed rural haven with a family-friendly feel, The Vicarage is ideal for an intimate wedding celebration and really comes to life at this time of year making it a wonderful choice for autumnal nuptials. The cosy Library, or the vintage vibe of the Garden Room both provide warm, stylish settings. This classic and elegant venue, can also be hired for exclusive use when having an evening reception. You’ll be able to dance the night away surrounded by the re-imagined industrial décor of the Main Bar

and rest your head in one of the 26 fabulous bedrooms.

With four areas licensed for ceremonies, The Vicarage can accommodate anywhere from two to 110 guests. Choose from the intimate and quirky Games Room for up to 25 guests or the stylish Library and Garden Room for up to 70. Alternatively, if you’re looking to make the venue completely yours, the Main Bar offers a wonderful setting for 100 loved ones to look on as you tie the knot. You could even opt for an oh-so romantic twilight wedding.

When it comes to the post-ceremony celebrations, the same spaces are available to you. You may decide on an intimate meal for 22 in the Games Room, a cosy candlelight supper in the Library for 40, or enjoy the vintage backdrop of the Garden Room with 55 nearest and dearest. With exclusive use, you can invite 120 to enjoy a meal with you or 230 for an evening reception.

FLORAL PAVILION

0151

666 0000 | www.floralpavilionweddings.com

The Floral Pavilion is a waterfront venue bursting with character and boasting panoramic views across the iconic River Mersey. Steeped in history and culture, the glass-fronted building stands proudly in the heart of New Brighton. It encompass an 814-seat theatre, along with the spacious Plaza and Panoramic Lounge, and a range of fabulous banqueting rooms.

The stunning Winter Garden Suite boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with light and offers your guests a spectacular view of the River Mersey. With a gorgeous panoramic coastal backdrop and the option to customise the space to your taste, it’s a memorable place to say “I do” as 50 to 300 loved ones look on.

If you’re looking for something different, a ceremony in the theatre will

put you centre stage! Steeped in history, you can tread the same boards as Cilla Black, Ken Dodd, Jason Manford and Lulu as you tie the knot –an experience you and your guests will remember for lifetime! Here, 500 guests can witness your nuptials.

Receptions take place in the Winter Garden Suite for up to 300 guests. It’s a wonderful place to dine and celebrate, where you and your loved ones can enjoy the sunset and party the night away. The suite can be extended based on your numbers (up to 300 for the wedding breakfast) to ensure the perfect atmosphere. It’s accessible via a private entrance, features a private bar area, large sprung wooden dancefloor, break-out area with comfy sofas, plus access to a terrace ideal for photos.

The Centre Stage package includes a private dining menu taster for two in the Tivoli Suite. All couples receive a complimentary Friends of the Floral membership with a show of your choice to celebrate your first anniversary.

The Bear necessities

Jade and Jordan tied the knot at Cheshire View with their sights set on sustainability and plenty of cute nods to their marital surname

Images courtesy of AFS Media

Jade and Jordan met in Spain on a university sports tour back in 2016. The pair instantly hit it off and both experienced a sense of significance in their meeting. Their friendship developed over the months that followed back at the University of Nottingham, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Jordan proposed on a private boat in the middle of Lake Garda, Italy. He’d planned a surprise city break for the two of them, which wasn’t too out of the ordinary as the couple loved nothing more than jetting off to European hotspots together pre-Covid. This trip to Milan and Lake Garda was their first when pandemic restrictions permitted and they enjoyed beautiful food, weather and wine, all contributing to the most romantic destination they’d visited thus far. “I always felt confident that I’d know if Jordan was planning to propose,” Jade says. “But I was totally blown away when he asked me to be his wife. I immediately said, ‘Yes,’ so it was homeward bound as the new Mr and Mrs Bear-to-be.”

The nearlyweds knew Cheshire View was the place for them as soon as they’d had the chance to explore it for the first time. Nestled within the Cheshire countryside, just a short drive from Chester, it offers the most spectacular views, as the name implies. The date was booked for 7th July, which felt significant since it meant Jade and Jordan would tie the knot on the 7th day of the 7th month of their 7th year together. “We chose a Friday so that we could make the most of the full weekend after the wedding,” Jade says. “Knowing everyone who came took the time and made the effort to join us, giving up a day of their annual leave in the process, made it all the more special. Our friends and family were made up at the prospect of a long weekend of celebrations.”

Join us as Jade gives us the lowdown on the big day...

SETTING THE SCENE

Jade and Jordan set out to make sure their wedding was as sustainable as it could be, and wanted to keep everything simple with the focus being on elements most important to them such as the food and drink.

With sustainability in mind the couple tried to reuse and recycle as much as possible and utilised their gypsophila pew ends as centrepieces, splitting the bunches up into recycled glass vases. “A simple but elegant touch,” Jade says.

As Jordan’s last name is Bear, thus making it Jade’s new surname, the duo decided to nod to this throughout as a unique, personal touch. They had a bespoke re-useable stamp made, which was used across all of their invitations printed on recycled card. They then digitised the image to use on a timeline that guests could refer to during the day, thanks to digital displays dotted around the venue. The bear stamp was also used to create wedding favour badges for guests to wear and take home. We’re told that Jordan’s now lives on his golf bag!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

As foodies, Jade and Jordan created their wedding menu in collaboration with their caterer. “All of our guests, including those with dietary requirements, couldn’t get over how delicious and plentiful the food was,” Jade says. “The team at Sticky Sausage Catering really are magicians in the kitchen and can tailor all sorts of amazing menus to suit your preferences.”

The big-day bake consisted of two tiers of lemon drizzle and fruit cake. This was lovingly made by the mother-of-the-bride and decorated by the caterers. The couple selected a wire cake topper, which read: Mr and Mrs Bear. They’ve since utilised this at home as wall art.

The highlight of the day in the sweet treat department though was the Fellici’s Ice Cream cart serving Italian-style gelato with personalised wafers. “Becki was fantastic in helping us narrow down our flavours, and it felt like a lovely nod to our Italian engagement,” Jade shares.

Now offering our unique jukebox service on all Quartet & Trio packages

Harmony String Quartet are the perfect accompaniment for your wedding or event providing modern, film, jazz and classical music. With over 700 pieces in our repertoire lists, we are confident that you will find something for you and your guests to enjoy. We also offer a Jukebox service which allows guests to choose any music they wish to hear at the click of a button using our QR code and sign up sheet

LOOKING THE PART

Having tried on some beautiful gowns in various local boutiques, Jade realised that finding the dream dress wasn’t going to happen for her. “I’ve always had a slightly different style to mainstream trends and knew I wanted to wear something timeless. So, I designed my own dress together with a very special lady,” Jade tells us. “I guess the important thing to consider is that all brides are different, so what works for one won’t necessarily work for another. I was incredibly lucky to meet a local lady who’s been creating wedding dresses her entire career, and I’m so pleased with the outcome of our time together.”

One thing Jade has always said over the years is that if ever she were to get married, she’d want to do so in a gorgeous pair of shoes! Her custom-made blue Jimmy Choo’s were the realisation of this and she had them personalised with the date on the sole and her maiden initials on the heel. The whole look was completed with a slightly drastic hair cut on the morning of the wedding, courtesy of Zoe from Deva Hair, Chester. “I’d been growing my hair since we got engaged, but about a week before the big day, I started to feel that the original plan for my hair wouldn’t do my dress or shoes justice,” Jade explains. “So, I called my hairdresser to see if she’d be down for cutting it into a long bob on the morning of and thankfully, she agreed!”

Jordan wore a fabulous, fitted tuxedo that suited the day perfectly. He also wore braces and an Italian aftershave that complemented the bride’s perfume – another nod to the couple’s engagement story. He accessorised with personalised gold cufflinks and a pin badge of their dog, Dennis, worn on the inside of his lapel. He also wore his wedding gift, a matching gold signet ring bearing his initials.

As the aim was to keep the day fairly fuss-free, Jordan had a best man and Jade had a maid-of-honour in their wedding parties. “It made everything so much more personal for us on the day and kept the intimacy of our marriage centre stage,” Jade explains. The best man wore a matching tuxedo, while the maid-of-honour wore a gorgeous Gatsby-style sparkly dress.

TIME TO CELEBRATE

In Bloom Events Band sang during the ceremony, performed throughout the drinks reception, and ensured the party was started in style in the evening. “They honestly created such an amazing atmosphere, and their talent knows no bounds,” says Jade. “They were such a pleasure to work with in the run up to the big day, and our guests were so impressed with their performance.”

Another favourite with the guests was the photo booth with props, including a custom one of Dennis. They were all able to take prints away with them on personalised cards, and the happy couple received a link to digital copies of the prints as well as of individual photos taken in both black and white, and colour.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Jordan says, “Turning to see my wife-to-be walking towards me as I waited at the end of the aisle, we locked eyes after 24 hours apart, which must be the moment that stood out for me most on the day. Seconds before, our maid-of-honour and my mother-in-law came down the aisle together as the band played Stand By Me. This felt significant, especially since Jade’s mum was her something blue.”

Jade says, “The day far surpassed my expectations, from my husband’s beautiful speech and the acknowledgements he

made, to my incredible parents showing our friends and family what amazing hospitality and acceptance looks like. I also loved making a speech myself and having the opportunity to thank the most important people in my life.”

The couple also wish to thank their photographer Rob at AFS Media Limited. “He, along with his team, did the best job capturing our day. One of the most valuable parts of our package was the amazing engagement shoot, which helped us to get used to being in front of the camera and making our wedding day seamless,” the bride shares.

THE COUPLE’S TOP TIPS

“Our advice is to stay focused and enjoy the journey,” Jade says. “Don’t let others negatively impact what is, and should be, one of the most special and personal times of your lives. Growing up, my aspirations in life featured very little focus on weddings and being a bride, so to anyone newly-engaged who is struggling with their new title, please don’t fret.

“It’s a very emotional and thought-provoking time, but trust me when I say, that everything really will fall into place. Ignore the pressures around you, what matters is the commitment you and your partner are choosing to make to one another. Enjoy every moment and take in all the joy it will bring.”

Your perfect day, your way

Located just four miles from the historic city of Chester, nestled in the countryside with breath-taking views.

Cheshire View provides the perfect backdrop for your special day. We have several suites available, suitable for all, whether you’re keeping it small and intimate, or going all out. Our Outdoor Garden Room and Gazebo offers the perfect picturesque backdrop for any beautiful outdoor ceremony. If saying your vows in the garden isn’t for you, we can ensure your dream wedding is created indoors while still benefiting from the breath-taking views of Cheshire’s countryside.

Here at Cheshire View we like to create bespoke packages for all our couples, to ensure your day is personal to you. Our wedding and events coordinator will help you through the planning process and with those special finishing touches. We pride ourselves in creating beautiful weddings filled with love and laughter.

BE MARRIED Eat, drink and

Ellie and Rhys said “I do” at Old Palace Chester in June, 2023 Images courtesy of Jaine Briscoe-Price Photography

Ellie and Rhys met at a bar in Chester. “Rhys was very outgoing, chatty and able to make me laugh from day dot,” Ellie remembers. While Rhys says, “Ellie has a lovely personality, a wicked sense of humour and a lovely smile.”

At Eckington Manor in Worcestershire, where they were celebrating Ellie’s nana’s 80th birthday, Rhys proposed. “At the end of the meal he said he had a present for me and as I opened it, he was down on one knee,” Ellie shares. “He asked me to marry

him in front of my mum, dad and nana. It was perfect!”

From the first time they visited The Old Palace Chester the couple found the team to be extremely welcoming and informative. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The incredible food, sampled during their tasting experience would have sold the venue to them had its classy and contemporary nature not already achieved that. The date was secured for 3rd June, 2023. Read on as the bride tells us more...

My dress was a Morilee by Madeline Gardner design, Sandy. It was classic at the front with all the detail at the back, which I just loved. I accessorised with a floorlength veil detailed around the edge.

My bouquet consisted of gypsophila, eucalyptus, a fresh poppy head, white veronica, white lisianthus, sage green hydrangea, white astilbe and white stocks. My bridesmaid had a smaller version of mine. I absolutely loved them.

My maid-of-honour, Mel, wore, a sage green multi-way dress from Lipsy.

Rhys wore Dion by Marc Darcy. He had a champagne paisley tie and pocket square too, plus Wexham AFC cufflinks. He stood out from his groomsmen who wore sage green ties and pocket squares.

Our wedding cake was lovingly made by members of my family. It was flavoured with lemon, lemon and elderflower, coffee, vanilla and chocolate red velvet; and was finished with vanilla buttercream, gold leaf and flowers to match my bouquet.

Our favours were also our place names. They were personalised cookies decorated with sage green icing and guests names in white writing.

Each table had three floating candles with greenery draped around the vases that held them.

Rhys particularly enjoyed having photographs taken down by the river. It was a hot day, which meant it was busy, but we had lots of fun thanks to our photographer and videographer.

“I felt totally relaxed. I couldn’t wait to start a new chapter in my life.” – Rhys

We had a live painter there throughout the wedding breakfast capturing our guests on canvas. It’s now hanging in our new home and is such a special memory to cherish.

Matt the Cheshire Wedding DJ took lots of song requests from our guests throughout the evening, mainly from my dad! He asked for our song, so we could have a dad and daughter dance. It’s a moment I’ll forever be grateful for. We also had a photo booth with props. We were able to take home printed pictures. It was a great hit.

Canapés included fish and chips, pigs in blankets, and tomato arancini. The the main event we enjoyed a starter of salmon and crab cakes with a watercress and fennel salad. A palate cleanser of apple sorbet, and gin and tonic granita was served before main course, which was rack of lamb, roast shoulder croquette, pickled radishes, jersey royals, onions and asparagus. For dessert we enjoyed an Eton mess.

We took a mini-moon in Tenby after the wedding. We stayed in a cottage that had a hot tub and a garden for our puppy, Roxy, to play in. We spent the time visiting various beaches in Pembrokeshire and the weather was amazing.

THE W-DAY TEAM

The Old Palace has a pizza oven in the garden so in the evening we filled up on ham, mushroom, mozzarella and kalamata olive pizzas; and spinach, goats cheese, and basil pesto pizzas.

Venue and catering, Old Palace Chester, https://oldpalacechester.co.uk | Photographer, Jaine Briscoe-Price Photography, https://jainebriscoe-price.co.uk | Bride’s dress and veil, Elizabeth Louise Bridal Boutique, https://elizabethlouisebridal.com | Groom’s and groomsmen’s suits, Groom Chester, https://groomhire.co.uk | Wedding rings, Beaverbrooks | Hair stylist, LD Hairdressing, www.instagram.com/ld_hairdressing and www.instagram.com/hair_beautyworks | Make-up artist, Lucinka Hodnett MUA, www.facebook.com/lucinkahodnettmua | Bridesmaid’s dress, Lipsy at Next | Flowers, Whimsical Weddings, www.whimsicalweddingscheshire.co.uk | Stationery, Mally’s Crafts, www.mallyscrafts.co.uk | Entertainment, Cheshire Wedding DJ, http://cheshireweddingdj.com | Live painter, The Wedding Painter, www.stuartbarkley.co.uk | Photo booth, The Candid Company, www.instagram.com/__thecandidcompany | Videographer, Perfect Day Production, www.perfectdayproduction.com

“Relaxed, excited, emotional. You name it, I felt it!” — Ellie

Our dreamy, luxurious Bridal Boutique is nestled in the magical ‘Rows’ of Chester city centre.

We house the very latest collections from the most incredible global bridal designers.

Our experienced stylists will bring your bridal vision to life making you feel the most amazing version of yourself on your special day.

Our goldsmiths and precious stone setters have over 50 years experience. We have a huge choice of wedding rings and bridal jewellery in our beautiful city centre shop. No appointment needed.

LIFE IS GRAND

Emily and Mike set out to style their fairytale castle to full effect and packed it to the rafters with stunning florals

Images courtesy of EP Photography & Prints

Emily and Mike met at a party in 2014 and bonded over a mutual love for rugby league (albeit favouring rival teams). Emily was warned off by their eventual best man who told her not to trust Mike as he was notorious for making super-strong drinks and getting people drunk! “I like a challenge though,” Emily tells us. “So, I accepted one of this concoctions and needless to say, I don’t remember much more of that night!” The next day she awoke feeling regretful that they hadn’t exchanged numbers, but luckily the forward-thinking best-man-to-be had written Mike’s number on a piece of scrap paper and slipped it into her bag. The pair spent the following 18 months in a long-distance relationship while Mike lived in Saddleworth and Emily studied in Newcastle.

Mike proposed one Christmas Day. Little did Emily know when the day began that the engagement ring was concealed in a tree bauble and had been hanging from a branch for weeks. Before they tucked into Christmas dinner, Mike called Emily into the living room telling her that their British bulldog, Winston, had a gift for her. “As I entered the room the doors shut behind me and all I could hear was Mike telling Winston: ‘Calm down! We practised

this!’” she remembers. “It was at this point I realised what was happening.” The door swung open and in strolled Winston with a sign around his neck that read: “Say, ‘yes’.” He was followed by Mike who immediately went over to the tree, removed the secret bauble and got down on one knee. Emily did as Winston asked her.

The couple spent a lot of time discussing venues. Mike is very much into his history and therefore dreamed of a historical location. Emily is a huge Disney and Harry Potter fan, and liked the idea of a castle. So, they both reached the same conclusion, just via different routes! They both assumed Peckforton Castle would be beyond their budget, but thought they’d take a look to get some ideas nevertheless. The minute they walked through the first archway their jaws hit the ground. “From the size and the grand structure, to the deep red and gold decorations, everything was perfect,” Emily explains. Even though they visited other venues, Peckforton Castle remained in their minds and hearts, so when they discovered that it was, in fact, within budget they didn’t hesitate in securing their date – 25th February, 2023. Here, the bride tells us more...

My hair and make-up team recommended we start getting ready slightly earlier than needed to allow us time in case anything went wrong. This was a good idea as it made the morning really relaxed and after lots of snacks and bucks fizz, we were ready to go an hour early!

I wore Marcela by Martin Thornburg. It was a huge A-line dress with beading detail and a long train, which I thought would be perfect for our castle venue. My sister described it as something a queen would wear. I styled it with a cathedral-length veil embroidered with our initials, and a pair of Converse personalised with our initials, ‘Mrs Newell,’ our wedding date and ‘Always’ since I’m a huge Harry Potter fan!

Mike wore a navy tweed three-piece suit with a deep red and brown thread running through it that tied in with our theme, and finished the look with light brown shoes and a burgundy tie. He kept his outfit a surprise until the day, so that I’d be seeing it for the first time as he stood at the end of the aisle. His groomsmen were dressed in plain navy suits allowing the groom to stand out.

We loved it when Winston entered as the ring bearer and walked down the aisle with my friend Daisy. He’s normally pretty giddy but on the day he was impeccably behaved and performed his duties without a hitch, which is unlike him!

I walked down the aisle to Lucky Man by The Verve played by our string quartet Echo Strings. It’s Mike’s favourite song and it always seems to play whenever there’s a big or important event in his life, so I wanted to surprise him with it.

During canapé hour Echo Strings played a mixture of classic wedding songs and modern tunes. A lot of people commented on the Bridgerton vibes they were creating!

We wanted the flowers to flow throughout the venue, so we also had a large, full, floral arch placed at the entrance to the ceremony space and a large piece that covered the minstrels gallery. A lot of people commented that the flowers made the venue and that was exactly what we wanted –fulsome and grand.

Mike says: “After the ceremony, all I could think about was my speech, so I’m really glad we did them before the meal. I went first, so that I could sit and enjoy our wedding breakfast without the speech hanging over me. This is something I’d definitely recommend to any nervous groom.”

My bridesmaids were all different shapes and sizes, so having customisable dresses was perfect. I really wanted them to be comfortable, so allowing them to design their own dresses even down to the embellishments allowed this.

It’s a family tradition to have homemade Polish vodka favours. Mike’s uncle, who is Polish, made cranberry beer flavoured vodka for us, and we decanted it into little bottles. We sealed them with wax and labelled them: ‘We’ve tied the knot, now take a shot.’

For the centrepieces we alternated wisteria trees from the aisle with low candle centrepieces. They sat in the middle of a floral wreath, which again matched the blooms from my bouquet. We wanted lots of voluminous flowers to suit the grandeur of the venue.

Our floral palette featured lots of red and pink, and arrangements included peonies and roses alongside berries and eucalyptus. Wisteria lined the aisle, and we married beneath a canopy of the same. The men all wore buttonholes and the woman had corsages to match.

As the room was so tall we wanted a statuesque cake to prevent it looking out of place. We had five tiers, which sat on a sixth decorated with flowers to make it look like it sat on a pillow of blooms. The middle tier was adorned in fondant lace to mirror the lace on my veil. It was also monogrammed to connect various other elements throughout.

Start with deciding on a budget. We looked up the average wedding cost in the UK and then researched how to allocate it. We both picked one thing that was most important to us and decided to prioritise those, and whatever was left would be divided amongst everything else. Early agreement on the budget also meant very few arguments in the run up to the wedding, as it’s so easy to get carried away otherwise.

We bought a large gold mirror second hand and my friend made acrylic names that we stuck on. We decorated it with flowers that matched the bouquet in order to keep our theme flowing throughout, and did the same for our wedding sign. We also went for dark wooden place names to complement the woodwork throughout the castle.

We all enjoyed canapés of spring rolls, beef brisket balls, salmon caviar and mini Yorkshire puddings before sitting down to our wedding breakfast. Our main meal was ham hock or tomato and paprika soup, followed by feather blade of beef and dauphinoise potatoes or feta and sun-dried tomato tart, finished with chocolate brownie with raspberry sorbet. In the evening, we had bacon or sausage baps with potato wedges.

In the evening, live band Here’s To Us kept the dancefloor full. They also provided a DJ service in between live sets. They played a huge variety of music, which we hope appealed to everyone, and they had an amazing sound. Mike really enjoys music, so it was important to him to have live entertainment.

All of our suppliers were amazing. Our photographer and videographer fitted seamlessly into our day and kept everything super-relaxed. The venue team couldn’t do enough to help and were constantly on hand. But Emma from Event Cheshire made our day extra special. The flowers were so much more than we ever could have imagined and the colours she chose were perfect. She even added extra bits to surprise us on the day, which made us feel so special and is something I’ll never forget.

EMILY AND MIKE’S SUPPLIERS

Venue and catering, Peckforton Castle, www.peckfortoncastle.co.uk | Photographer, EP Photography & Prints, www.facebook.com/EPPhotographyandprints | Videographer, Action Wedding Videos, https://actionvideos.co.uk | Bride’s dress and accessories, Bethany Hannah Bridal, www.bethanyhannahbridal.co.uk | Wedding rings, F.Hinds | Hair and make-up, Elementum Hair, www.facebook.com/elementumhair | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Joy’s Bella Bridesmaids, www.joysbellabridesmaids.co.uk | Flowers, Event Cheshire, www.eventcheshire.com | Entertainment, Here’s To Us, www.herestousband.co.uk | Echo Strings, www.instagram.com/echostringsuk

Through a candid and photojournalistic approach to weddings, With Love Rose promises to deliver a gallery that is a true reflection of your day - the details, raw emotion, intimate interactions, and everything in between.

Cheshire | North Wales | Nationwide

www.withloverosephotography.co.uk

withloverosephotography@outlook.com

FAIRYTALE VIBES Flirty, fresh,

This team set out to bring a destination wedding vibe to this modern and oh-so romantic local shoot

Images courtesy of With Love Rose Photography

Photographer Rose Stelfox from With Love Rose Photography and Cassie McClymont from Cassie M Bridal Accessories both fell in love with the concept of creating a shoot for couples who are seeking a destination feel to their domestic nuptials. Château Rhianfa, nestled along the Menai Straits in North Wales, lent itself perfectly to the vibe, with a French fairytale feel and a certain je ne sais quoi.

Rose and Cassie adored the idea of bringing modern, romantic wedding themes, but wanted to avoid the classic white and green palette, in favour of fun and flirty florals, crafted into broken arches, statement tablescapes, bouquets and more. Soft and delicate stationery details complemented, rather than distracted from the flowers or the natural, dramatic backdrops. Meanwhile, the models’ looks were whimsical and dreamy to play into the fairytale vision. Rose’s own photographic style also played a part, as she intentionally added some filminspired black and white frames, to emulate the vintage and nostalgic atmosphere at the venue.

THE DREAM TEAM

Venue, Chateau Rhianfa, https://chateaurhianfa.co.uk | Photographer and shoot coordinator, With Love Rose Photography, www.withloverosephotography.co.uk | Accessories, hair and make-up, and shoot coordinator, Cassie M Bridal Accessories, www.cassiem.co.uk

Dresses, Wedding Belles Brides, https://weddingbellesbrides.co.uk | Suits, Peter Posh, www.peterposh.co.uk | Cake, Red Rose Cake Co, https://redrosecakeco.com | Flowers, Scent With Love, https://scentwithloveflowers.co.uk | Stationery, Sophie Elizabeth Weddings, www.instagram.com/sophieelizabethweddings | Rings, London Victorian Ring Co., www.london-victorian-ring.com

CHESHIRE WOODLAND WEDDINGS

01606 882 223 | https://cheshirewoodlandweddings.com

Connor Murphy says: We’re an award-winning wedding venue offering a one-of-a-kind experience… you could even call it ‘a breath of fresh air!’ Our licensed ceremonies take place nestled in our 15-acre woodland within an enchanting, thatched cabana while your nearest and dearest take in the view. We can even have your rings delivered by owl! Your guests can truly take in the great outdoors, and we can tailor you a package full of fun activities from archery and Segway, to falconry. Party the night away in our barn or sit back and relax in the warm glow of the firepits. Alongside our venue, we have a team of dedicated and awardwinning wedding coordinators who will help you plan your big day every step of the way, allowing you to enjoy it worry-free.

Connor’s top tip: One of the biggest things you can’t control on your day is the weather, but this shouldn’t be a bad thing. If it rains, turn your

A BREATH

FRESH AIR of

Outdoor weddings are wonderful. There’s nothing quite like celebrating al fresco on a beautiful day with the warm sun and a gentle breeze on your skin, surrounded by the beauty of nature. It can be just as joyful and romantic as it sounds. But there’s a lot to think about when it comes to the planning process. If you’ve decided to go the whole hog, you’ll most likely be facing a blank field here, so you’ll need to account for all of the crucial comfort elements that would be inherent in a permanent venue. It’ll all be worth it in the end though, and the most important thing is to bring all the best suppliers on board – those who’ve literally been there, done that and bought the t-shirt, with the wisdom to back you up. Here, a few of the region’s experts explain what’s what...

photo shoot into a Singing In The Rain woodland edition, and maybe get some disposable ponchos to keep guests dry. If it snows, grab your nearest and dearest and make some snow angels. Just be sure to purchase some blankets for the colder evenings. These moments are what you make of them, and if you embrace the weather, it won’t spoil your day.

What’s the best thing about celebrating in the great outdoors versus staying inside?

There’s something a little bit magical about having a ceremony outdoors, especially in a woodland. The surroundings almost amplify the occasion, it feels like something straight out of a Robin Hood epic or Lord of the Rings. Even if you’re not into fantasy genres, the open woodland offers a little more intimacy, as if the busy world has stopped, just for the two of you.

The region’s suppliers tell us just how they can help when it comes to planning an al fresco wedding celebration

JACQUI O FLOWERS

07540 441 112 | www.jacquio.co.uk

Jacqui Owen says: As an award-winning wedding and event florist we’re passionate about bringing your outdoor weddings to life, turning your dreams to reality. Our beautifully crafted florals are a reflection of your individuality and unique personal style. While our design-led approach allows you to experience luxurious florals, which make you feel special and leave your guests in awe. We weave your story and personality into the heart of every stylish floral creation.

Jacqui’s top tip: When planning an al fresco wedding, thoughtful consideration is essential to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience, so contingency plans are vital. Consider renting a tipi or marquee to provide shelter and peace of mind in case the weather takes an unexpected turn.

CHESHIRE PONY PARTIES

07954 016 179 | www.cheshireponyparties.co.uk

Amanda Keech says: I offer adorable small ponies to carry champagne or confetti at your wedding or simply for photos and mingling with guests.

Amanda’s top tip: I know from experience that everyone worries about the weather! My advice is to try not to stress about it. After all, you can’t do anything about it, so focus on what you can do to work around it. Your venue will almost certainly have some indoor or undercover space for you to use.

Speak to your venue too to see if they have umbrellas available for guests to use, and if not, why not source some yourselves? You could get some to match your colour palette or go for clear ones.

Similarly your photographer will be very used to working in all sorts of conditions. Have faith that they’ll handle it brilliantly.

What’s the best thing about celebrating in the great outdoors versus staying inside?

The best thing about celebrating outdoors is just being outdoors! An expanse of grass or a perfectly presented flower garden, maybe a water feature, and fresh air all provide an environment that allows any last-minute nerves to float away enabling everyone to fully immerse themselves in enjoying your special day.

Moreover, keep in mind how the weather can impact the choice of flowers for your wedding. Different varieties may hold up better in certain conditions, so discuss options with your florist to ensure your arrangements remain fresh and vibrant throughout the celebration.

What’s the best thing about celebrating in the great outdoors versus staying inside?

You’ll step into a world where natural beauty takes centre stage, weaving a captivating tapestry for your wedding’s backdrop from the vibrant blooms of spring, to the warm embrace of summer, the rustic charm of autumn, or the serene beauty of a winter wonderland. Being surrounded by nature creates a sense of tranquillity and harmony, making the celebration feel more grounded and authentic.

Outdoor venues provide abundant opportunities for unique décor and layouts, empowering you to infuse your personal vision into the space bringing your love story to life in an unforgettable way.

Lisa Gormley says: We have the perfect setting for outdoor weddings: a gorgeous oak pagoda, The Clock Tower, resting on the banks of our beautifully tranquil lake it brings the total wow-factor feeling to your outdoor nuptials. With seating for 100 guests and a view to calm even the most nervous of couples, there really couldn’t be a nicer setting to say your vows al fresco.

Lisa’s top tip: Make the most of Cheshire’s idyllic surroundings. Open-air weddings can create the most stunning photography using the great outdoors as your backdrop. Here at Sandhole, we have the most incredible al fresco areas to take advantage of, not least our gorgeous lake and lakeside decking area.

What’s the best thing about celebrating in the great outdoors versus staying inside?

Blessed with some of the most beautiful green countryside, when the weather is on our side it’s the perfect opportunity to include the great outdoors in your wedding celebrations. Al fresco drinks receptions, canapés in hand under the glow of the sunshine. Sounds perfect!!

BOOKER FLOWERS & GIFTS

0151 724 4850 | www.bookerweddings.co.uk

Gemma Wakerley says: At Booker Weddings we offer couples planning an outdoor wedding guaranteed freshness and longevity of floral wedding arrangements whether it be hot or cold. We do this by choosing flowers carefully, and would start by finding out your personal likes and dislikes, along with your colour palette. Everything else is at our discretion. This makes things easier for us and we can keep the focus on supplying hardy long-lasting flowers that are going to hold up come rain or shine. We keep our blooms fresh by saturating floral foam well in advance, while fresh water and flower food is added to all our containers before storing the flowers into them. We quick dip all our stems, which is a hydration treatment that improves water uptake and revives tired droopy blooms; we also mist all our flowers once they’re in situ.

Gemma’s top tip: Opt for a showstopping arrangement such as a floral arch. This décor serves to welcome guests and provides a gorgeous preand post-wedding ceremony photo backdrop, highly recommended for capturing those pictureperfect memories.

What’s the best thing about celebrating in the great outdoors versus staying inside?

One of the biggest advantages of outdoor weddings is the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds you. Whether you choose a beach, a garden, or a mountain top, the natural setting can provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos, but having flowers too will elevate all that nature’s beauty has to offer.

Photography by Nigel Parkinson at Piconiq

You drive ME CRAZY!

Find the perfect big-day vehicle to suit your style

Just how you’re going to get from ceremony to celebrations is a key consideration unless you’ve opted for a single, all-day venue. In fact, even if you will be saying “I do” and partying the night away in the same spot, you might still want to make a grand entrance or simply get away for a few quiet moments as newlyweds. So, it’s time to start looking for big-day transport!

Meet some of the region’s finest wedding transport suppliers as they introduce to you their favourite vehicles, and we suggest the perfect match for your vibe.

CLASSIC WEDDING CARS CHESHIRE

07973 863 288

https://classicweddingcarscheshire.com

Business owner Chris says, “Our cars are unique in the region – they aren’t available anywhere else in Cheshire or Merseyside. We offer a bespoke, personalised service. Quotes are tailored to each wedding and generally based on mileage and time on the road.”

What’s more, the super-cool Triumph is quite the celebrity having appeared on ITV’s Coronation Street and in photo shoots for Marc Darcy menswear.

Maximum distance covered Approximately 100 miles round trip

How many passengers can it carry? Four

Triumph Vitesse convertible

Year of manufacture 1965

Maximum distance covered

Approximately 100 miles round trip

How many passengers can it carry? Three

20TH-CENTURY COOL

QUIRKY RETRO

Images courtesy of Classic Wedding Cars Cheshire

Keyhole Motors’ traditional-style wedding cars suit any style of wedding. They’ve transported couples and their guests to rustic barn venues, country manor houses, marquees and city-centre locations. They’re timeless and work for all. They’ve been built to complement each other, and the seat arrangement of the Asquith is such that passengers can chat during the journey, while the Royal Imperial offers a bigger door and rear bench for easy access in a huge wedding dress!

The star cars are of course more of a personal preference. Most who book the Jurassic Park Jeep are lovers of the film, and it’s often booked as a surprise for the bride or groom. Business owner Kris says, “Recently when the Jeep turned up to collect the groom as a surprise, he was so overwhelmed he broke into tears!”

Kris continues, “We started our business in 2008 as wedding photographers. Working every week with other wedding suppliers we experienced a range of companies, including wedding transport. We wanted a fleet of vehicles that would work well on camera, so all of our colours have been selected with photography in mind, using metallic paints and some mattes for best results.” The cars’ interiors also have feature lighting, which in the winter months allows you to flick a switch and have even light throughout. Again, crucial for those all important snaps!

All journeys are overseen by studio manager Steven, who plans the route and time frame of the day. So, you’ll receive an itinerary of the hire period, which is incredibly useful for you, as well as your suppliers and Keyhole’s drivers.

ALTERNATIVE FUN

FACT FILE

Vehicle make/model Royal Imperial Year of manufacture Recently built to ensure the trim and mechanics are fresh and modern Maximum distance covered Service area of 30 miles from the base in Huyton, Liverpool. Please enquire for longer distances. How many passengers can it carry? Seven

FACT FILE

Vehicle make/model Jurassic Park Jeep Year of manufacture 1994

Maximum distance covered Anywhere in the UK.

How many passengers can it carry? Three

FACT FILE

Vehicle make/model Asquith

Year of manufacture Recently built to ensure the trim and mechanics are fresh and modern

Maximum distance covered Service area of 30 miles from the base in Huyton, Liverpool. Please enquire for longer distances.

How many passengers can it carry? Seven

Images courtesy of Keyhole Motors

BESPOKED WEDDING CARS

01352 741 711 | www.bespokedweddingcars.com

The team at Bespoked Wedding Cars treat every wedding as a family occasion. They’ll only book each car for one wedding per day to avoid rushing through your photos and your special day. Meanwhile, the drivers are dressed in smart grey suits, are child-friendly and experienced in helping wedding days to run smoothly.

Caroline from Bespoked Wedding Cars says, “Your wedding is a special time, so you should enjoy it to the fullest. Don’t spend it worrying about the details. With the friendly and professional service we provide, you can relax in the knowledge that at least your transport is taken care of. Our high-quality wedding car hire service is offered at competitive prices with a like for like price match guarantee.”

All of the company’s cars have the elegant look and feel of vintage vehicles but with pristine finishes and the safety, comfort and reliability of a modern motor.

FACT FILE

Vehicle make/model Beauford

Year of manufacture Late 1980s, purposebuilt cars designed to look 1920s in style.

Maximum distance covered 50 mile radius per wedding

How many passengers can it carry? Four

FACT FILE

Vehicle make/model Regent

Year of manufacture Late 1980s, purpose-built cars designed to look 1920s in style.

Maximum distance covered 50 mile radius per wedding

CLASSIC

TRADITIONAL ELEGANCE

VINTAGE CHIC

How many passengers can it carry? Six

FACT FILE

Vehicle make/model Cowley

Year of manufacture Late 1980s, purposebuilt cars designed to look 1920s in style.

Maximum distance covered 50 mile radius per wedding

How many passengers can it carry? Six

Images courtesy of Bespoked Wedding Cars

HOT TOPIC This time it’s personal!

We asked the region’s experts for their top tips on personalising your wedding days

OUT WITH A BANG

Gareth Hughes from Alchemy Fireworks North West (www.alchemyweddingfireworks.co.uk) says: Fireworks can be a fantastic way to personalise your wedding celebration and create a memorable experience for you and your guests. Here are some ideas on how to use them to add a personal touch:

•Make it musical. Coordinate and choreograph the fireworks to your favourite song or a piece of music that holds sentimental value. This can create an emotional connection and make the display even more personal.

•Customised colours. Your firework display can be designed around your wedding palette or theme to create a cohesive visual experience.

•Shapes and letters. For an extra personal touch, add some customised effects into the display. Maybe heart-shaped bursts, or your names or initials written in fire.

•Surprise! Keep the display as a surprise for your guests. This can add even more excitement, leaving loved ones talking about your wedding for years to come. Remember, it’s important to work closely with a professional firework company to ensure safety, legality, and flawless execution. They can help you bring your vision to life and create a memorable experience for your special day.

YOUR DAY, YOUR WAY

Ali Tyrer from Blue & Sixpence (www.blueandsixpence.co.uk) says: Start by thinking about your identities, both as individuals and a couple. What interests do you have? Which do you share? What qualities would others say that you possess? Create a timeline of your life together and note down significant dates, places, and events. Use this as a basis to theme your wedding, and even to name your tables, get inspiration for your décor, your stationery and/or your ceremony. You may want to think about including the people who’ve been part of your love story in the preparations or on the day too. This can be a lovely way to acknowledge the part they played. You could also utilise elements of your wedding to tell your love story. For example, stationery could include a monogram and date, you could use photos, create a playlist of your favourite songs for particular parts of the day, or even use a signature fragrance. It’s been said that the two most important senses for evoking a strong, long-lasting memory are sound and smell.

In the end, it’s time to tear up that rule book! If you want alternatives to any part of your day, they are available. Do your day, your way. Weddings come in so many shapes, styles, sizes and formats, that’s what makes them exciting!

© Alchemy Wedding Fireworks London

NEVER WALK ALONE

Karen Boyle from Andy Boyle Photography (www.andyboylephotography.com) says: It’s so much fun to make a feature of the things that mean the most to you on your big day. We’ve photographed many weddings with wonderful personal touches, from favourite holidays taken together through football teams and favourite bands to Star Wars! Deciding how to make sure your vows are the most important part of the day while reflecting your passions is a balancing act. One of the easiest ways of expressing yourselves is via your table decorations. They’re eyecatching, in full view of your guests and are great to photograph. One of our couples booked brass musicians to entertain everyone, and made their centrepieces from old, broken trumpet parts. Favourite holiday spots are another beautiful idea, with destination names and little items from the areas.

There are so many ways to reflect yourselves in your wedding day: your ties, socks, flowers, décor and so much more. Many cake makers can cleverly make a reveal cake – the traditional side that guests will see first before moving around it to discover the secret geek-themed one! Then, of course there’s football. We’ve been greeted at the door of a beautiful venue by full size cut-outs of team players, flags and sounds of cheering crowds. Fortunately everyone supported the same side! We always ask our couples if they have plans to include particular features, so we can be sure to get the shots, even if it means catering for one supporting the reds, while the other cheers on the blues! Sometimes, your passion for your special interests can be a bit lost on your guests, so maybe if you love heavy metal, a full day of Metallica and Iron Maiden could be a bit much for some. Remember too, that your wedding photos could be on the wall for many years, so newlyweds dressed as Princess Leia and Skywalker may gradually lose it’s appeal. Have the most fun with your planning, but just occasionally, less is more.

SAY IT WITH FLOWERS

Katie Lloyd from Wirral-based Maddison J Creations (https://maddisonjcreations.co.uk) says: Every wedding is unique and personal, and should be treated as such. So, your big day should include personal touches throughout, and we always work closely with couples to achieve that.

These elements all help your big day feel a little bit more like you. From the mother-of-the-bride’s favourite flower, to a specific colour special to your family – place settings and seating plans are a great way to do this. There isn’t a wrong choice as long as it’s personal and has meaning to you. This could be anything... maybe you’d like to include flowers from the first bouquet you received from your spouse-to-be.

We always want your wedding to resemble your personalities and taste, so don’t be afraid to speak up and voice requests. A good venue stylist will always be eager to listen and welcome the injection of ideas. From our initial consultation with you, our team will always try and make your decor and florals feel bespoke.

SO YOU!

Celebrant Sarah Boalch from Ceremonies With Personality (www.ceremonieswithpersonality.com) says: The ultimate way of personalising your wedding is to hire a wedding celebrant. A celebrant will get to know you before your big day and write a ceremony around your personalities, style, and story so far as a couple. As it sets the tone for the rest of your day, personalising your “I dos” is absolutely key for ensuring your celebrations are a true reflection of you.

If you’re concerned your ceremony may not feel official without a registrar present, don’t worry! Your celebrant will work around you and how you would love your ceremony to look and feel – many couples go for a happy medium and ask for the story section of the proceedings to be kept light and less formal, whilst the vows and ring exchange are a little more official.

The absolute best thing about hiring a wedding celebrant is there are absolutely no limits! You can have your ceremony absolutely anywhere – even outdoors or in a venue without a marriage licence. This can be a game changer if you truly want to personalise your celebrations as the sky’s the limit. You’re completely free to find somewhere unique or alternative, which means something to you both and leaves your guests saying, “Wow! This is so you!!”

www.andyboylephotography.com

Our 2nd birthday in April will see us launch our first ever made-to-order collection. Working in collaboration with a Yorkshire based designer, this collection of 80, exclusive to us gowns, will be available to order from 10th April.

Blue & Sixpence was born out of our own experience - we wanted fabulous service, choice, style, fit and price- and just couldn't find it.

We don't believe that your bridal shopping experience should be dictated by only being able to shop in certain stores. We stock sizes 4-36 so that every Bride, whatever her shape, size, style or budget can have a wonderful, friendly, relaxed and private Bridal experience. We also offer a carefully curated collection of accessories, most are handmade by Ali, for a totally unique look!

www.blueandsixpence.co.uk | Ali@blueandsixpence.co.uk | 07775 000927

Unit 8, Building B, Business First, 23 Goodlass Road, Liverpool, L24 9HJ

AWARD-WINNING WEDDING FLORIST

Based in the Peak District WWW.JJSFLOWERS.CO.UK

WISHING HUE A wonderful wedding day

From 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!

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

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.

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

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

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

focus

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

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

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

Dresses, from a selection, www.pronovias.com

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

Orange multi-way dress, £99, Kates Dresses at www.silkfred.com

Accessorize

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

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

Tan-coloured clutch bag, £29.99, https://katieloxton.com

Style

ALERT

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

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

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

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

Orange bridesmaids’ dress, £92, www.jjshouse.co.uk

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

Sequin tassel mini dress, £89, www.belissh.com

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

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

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

For the little lovelies

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

All DRESSED UP

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

Standout sleeves

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

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

Dress by www.hermionedepaula.com

Cherry Blossom dress by https://clairepettibone.com

Selene dress by www.katherinetash.com

Motif dress by https://inesdisanto.com

Dress by www.eseazenabor.com

Rowen by www.kellyfaetanini.com

Bloom dress by Marchesa for www.pronovias.com

Adele by www.lihihod.com

Carey dress by www.andreahawkes.co.uk

Memphis dress by www.rosaclara.es/en

Dress by www.madelinegardnernewyork.com/en Scan

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

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.

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

Available from www.raymond-weil.co.uk

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.

Skin

DEEP

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

Ourgrooms’ 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

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

SOMETHING blue

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

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

www.watchshop.com

Sensational Check Waistcoat, £65, www.joebrowns.co.uk

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

www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

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

www.favourbrook.com

www.noeljewellery.com

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

Men’s Tommy Hilfiger Weston Watch, £189,

Personalised Posh Totty Designs Vintage Map Circular Cufflinks, £24.99,

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

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

Revolution White Gold Lapis Lazuli Cufflinks,

Dress Trousers – Whitton Cord French Navy, £250,

Three Piece Suit Trousers, £99.99, www.tkmaxx.com

Q&A Beauty

Look and feel your big-day best with help from the professionals

LIFT OFF

I really want to make my eyes stand out on the big day, but I’ve tried false lashes before and find them so uncomfortable. What else could you suggest?

Christina Henry-Winterburn from Christina’s Nail’s & Beauty (www.instagram.com/nails_by_christina_w) says: To make your eyes stand out without having to use fake lashes, or lash extensions, I’d suggest a lash lift and tint. Lash lifts require minimal maintenance and can last between six and eight weeks. They make your own lashes appear longer, curly and shiny. Most of the time clients will ask for black lashes to replicate a mascara effect, but there are lots of different tint shades available to complement your skin tone and hair colour. This treatment can take around 60 minutes and you must always have a patch test at least 48 hours beforehand.

JUST BROWSING

How can I make sure my eyebrows look picture-perfect on my wedding day?

Sarah Amelia Fogg, celebrity make-up artist and founder of Brows by Sarah (www.brows-by-sarah.com) says: Avoid the tweezers, unless you’re plucking from the flat area between your eyebrows above your nose. Plucking hairs from around the arch and bulb can be detrimental to your brow health and growth as we never know how long it’ll take for those hairs to grow back. In some cases they never return. I’d recommend going to a professional who can advise on what’s best.

If you want to try and grow your brows to fill them in naturally, brow growth serum is everything. I formulated Wow Brow Growth Mascara that’s clinically proven to naturally fill in brows. This enhancing and thickening serum is available in a choice of two pigments. When applied daily it reactivates growth while stimulating keratin production, and strengthening weak and sparse hairs. It’s all about being consistent with usage and having patience to see the results.

Picking the right shape is also important. Your eyebrows can lift, define, and frame your entire face perfectly, so ensuring they’re symmetrical too is crucial. To find the right shape for you, map the bulb, arch, and tail of your brows using a pencil or the end of a make-up brush. Start by placing your chosen tool on the side of your nose and angling towards the inner corner of your eye, which will indicate where the bulb of your brow should start. Then, angle your tool over your eye and this will show you where the tail should be. I recommend trying to honour your natural brow shape as this will suit you best.

Less is more when it comes to product. Whether you enjoy a natural, fluffy look or a skinny brow, try to avoid using too much product. Even if you have minimal brow hair you probably don’t need as much product as you think. Start at the tail, then work inwards, this can help you style with the natural shape of the arch.

Finally, use a strong, clear gel to brush the hairs upwards and create a thicker, fluffy look while keeping them in place all day. The Fluff It Up Brow Gel is so easy to use and it lasts all day. It can be used with or without make-up, but if using with, be sure to use it at the end of your routine to get the full sculpt and lift effect. Apply with the spoolie gently brushing upwards from the bulb of the brow making your way to the tail. Adding in a few subtle hair strokes with a precise pencil will also create the illusion of thicker brows.

Best face forward

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

Asbeauty 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

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

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.

BUZZ Beauty

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

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

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

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

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.

Luba

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 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.

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

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 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.

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

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.

All images courtesy of www.instagram.com/lubamushtuk

Travel editor Melissa Cullen reveals new openings and honeymoon essentials

HONEYMOONNews

MÁLAGA, SPAIN

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

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

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

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

Douglas Friedman

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

Expeditions

AE

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.

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.

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.

ROMANCE Rural

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

Known 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.

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

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

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.

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!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

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

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!

EXPLORE PROVENCE

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

Scan to view video

Magical

MAURITIUS

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

A LUXURY RETREAT

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

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.

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

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

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.

ISLAND ESCAPE

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!

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

TRAVEL SNAPSHOT

Love nest with a view

Climbing aboard the hotel’s catamaran

Admiring the sunset

Greetings from Île Plate

Chilling out in The Spa

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

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

TRAVEL SNAPSHOT

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.

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

Learning to cook

Mauritian style at dinner with Concita

Loving the snorkelling trail at Lagoon Attitude

Chilling out at Gran Zil, Zilwa Attitude

Headphones on at Secret Sunrise

Soaking up the rays at Sunrise Attitude

BODY BLISS Total

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

Located 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.

111

WIN A ROMANTIC BREAK IN YORKSHIRE WORTH £1,000

Grinkle

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.yourcheshiremerseyside.wedding and answer this question:

Q: Grinkle Park Hotel is situated in how many acres of land?

Terms and conditions apply. Good luck!

NEXT ISSUE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

DID YOU KNOW?

Your Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding is just one of our many County Wedding titles − find out more on our website www.yourcheshiremerseyside.wedding

We love featuring local couples and companies. If you want to get in touch email editor@county.wedding for your chance to grace the pages of next issue

CITY LIGHTS

Liverpool and Chester venues

CUPBOARD LOVE

Catering and sweet treats

LOOK OUT FOR...

HOT OFF THE PRESS

Catch up on all the latest wedding news from around the local areas

DON’T FORGET

Check out our website for more wonderful wed-spiration

LOVE THROUGH A LENS

Local photographers share their wisdom

WHAT’S HOT?

2024 bridalwear trends

MARRIAGE MATERIAL

Feel inspired by those who’ve been there

@YourCheshireMerseysideWedding

@CWM_YCMW

@countyweddingmagazines

Honeymoon and mini-moon ideas and inspiration

Need help organising your special day? Take a look at our free online planning tool

GET YOUR FREE COPY NOW

All 19 of our County Wedding Magazines titles are FREE to read online as eMagazines at www.county.wedding - suitable for smartphones and tablets too!

Lesley Meredith Photography

Nicole Photography

Herve Gillet Photography

Herve Gillet Photography