Your Devon and Cornwall Wedding - Issue 42 March/April 2023

Millbay Rd, Plymouth PL1 3LD

T: 01752 220782

E: weddings@newcontinental.co.uk

W: newcontinental.co.uk

NewContinentalHotel

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On the cover

This issue gorgeous cover has been sponsored by historic Dartmoor wedding venue Bovey Castle (www.boveycastle.com). It was captured at the wedding of Ali and Matt Bauer by Devon photographer Rockrose Photography (www.rockrosephotography.co.uk).

FEATURES

45 READY TO WED

Check out these small but perfectly formed intimate and elopement wedding venues

FASHION & BEAUTY

59 FASHION FOCUS

The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches

61 FRILL SEEKERS

This season’s bridal dresses enjoy tiers of ruffled tulle, silky satin layers and subtle pleats

67 IN LOVE WITH LACE

This timeless fabric never goes out of fashion

70 HEAD OVER HEELS

Walk down the aisle in style this season with our hand-picked edit of the best bridal shoes and bags

72 BEAUTY BUZZ

Get the look with these must-haves for the bride-to-be

74 BEAUTY Q&A

Our local professionals solve your problems

75 BAN THE BLOAT

Professional nutritionists at Wedding Wellness explain how to avoid untimely bloating on your wedding day

76 SOOTHING SELF-CARE

How Reiki can help you remain calm in the lead-up to your wedding

REAL WEDDINGS

28 TIME OF OUR LIVES

Deer’s Leap in South Molton provided the stunning backdrop for Jess and Ed’s special day

35 A FAMILY AFFAIR

Jeannette and David’s wedding enjoyed the backdrop of Salcombe Yacht Club

40 RUSTIC ROMANCE

Trevenna in Cornwall provided the stunning backdrop for Shannon and Josh’s two-day wedding

GROOMS

78 GROOMS’ NEWS

The latest best buys and product launches

79 SUITED AND BOOTED

Styling advice for the groom-to-be

80 IT’S ONLY NATURAL

With neutral colour palettes on the rise, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite products to ensure you look on-trend this season

HONEYMOONS

82 HONEYMOON NEWS

The newest openings and honeymoon destinations

84 A GRAND AFFAIR

Experience ultimate luxury at Rhodes-based Ixian Grand & All Suites

86 FLY AWAY WITH ME

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite city escapes

89 SANTA NEEDS A SPA DAY

Enjoy a break at The Runnymede on Thames

FASHION & BEAUTY

59 FASHION FOCUS

The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches

61 FRILL SEEKERS

This season’s bridal dresses enjoy tiers of ruffled tulle, silky satin layers and subtle pleats

67 IN LOVE WITH LACE

This timeless fabric never goes out of fashion

70 HEAD OVER HEELS

Walk down the aisle in style this season with our hand-picked edit of the best bridal shoes and bags

72 BEAUTY BUZZ

Get the look with these must-haves for the bride-to-be

74 BEAUTY Q&A

Our local professionals solve your problems

75 BAN THE BLOAT

Professional nutritionists at Wedding Wellness explain how to avoid untimely bloating on your wedding day

76 SOOTHING SELF-CARE

How Reiki can help you remain calm in the lead-up to your wedding

REAL WEDDINGS

28 TIME OF OUR LIVES

Deer’s Leap in South Molton provided the stunning backdrop for Jess and Ed’s special day

35 A FAMILY AFFAIR

Jeannette and David’s wedding enjoyed the backdrop of Salcombe Yacht Club

40 RUSTIC ROMANCE

Trevenna in Cornwall provided the stunning backdrop for Shannon and Josh’s two-day wedding

GROOMS

78 GROOMS’ NEWS

The latest best buys and product launches

79 SUITED AND BOOTED

Styling advice for the groom-to-be

80 IT’S ONLY NATURAL

With neutral colour palettes on the rise, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite products to ensure you look on-trend this season

HONEYMOONS

82 HONEYMOON NEWS

The newest openings and honeymoon destinations

84 A GRAND AFFAIR

Experience ultimate luxury at Rhodes-based Ixian Grand & All Suites

86 FLY AWAY WITH ME

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite city escapes

89 SANTA NEEDS A SPA DAY

Enjoy a break at The Runnymede on Thames

ADVERTISING

Account Manager

Tony Smith | 01376 538 562 tony.smith@county.wedding

Happy Easter!

WithEaster almost upon us, this feels like it’s going to be an eggcellent year! Not only can we look forward to this spring break (and all the tasty treats that it offers), we have the extra bank holiday in May to look forward to for The Coronation of His Majesty The King. Why not take advantage of all of this time off and book an extended wedding weekend to enjoy a few days of celebrations, as Jess and Ed did on page 26? Alternatively, you could plan a mini-moon in Devon or Cornwall, or a pre-wedding break away. Turn to page nine to read all about the new Romance Stay package at Dittisham Hideaway and page 23 where we reveal some of the finest hotels in both regions.

EDITORIAL

Editor Claire Ridley | 01376 535 611 claire.ridley@county.wedding

Until the next issue...

Claire x

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

@CountyWeddingMagazines

@CountyWeddings

@countyweddingmagazines

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

Jess and Ed enjoyed their three-day weekend wedding celebration at the stunning venue Deer’s Leap, Exmoor’s finest retreat. Read all about it on page 26.

Planning an Easter wedding? Why not serve chocolate-dipped or meringue-topped doughnuts for dessert? Be inspired by the mouthwatering selection available from Stacc and see their wedding cake on page 56.

Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Events & Publishing Ltd. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding is published six times a year.

ISSN 2397-4133

How stunning does the barn wedding venue Trevenna in Cornwall look here, styled with a romantic, rustic-inspired theme at the real wedding of Shannon and Josh on page 38?

Looking for a fun wedding gift for the happy couple? Check out the new Wedding Cake Tea from Bird & Blend Tea Co, along with other exciting new launches on page nine.

Claire Ridley, Editor

EDITOR’S FAVOURITE

Say I do with the perfect engagement or wedding gift – the new Wedding Cake Tea from Bird & Blend, an independent, award-winning tea company on a mission to reimagine the Great British brew. The brand now offers the country’s largest range of creative blends, using a wide selection of ingredients including herbs, flowers, fruits, caramels, and chocolate.

The Wedding Cake Tea is naturally caffeine-free loose tea with rooibos, coconut and rose packaged in a multi-use, fully recyclable wedding-themed tin that not only keeps the tea leaves fresh but the tin is great for the planet.

As well as online, Bird & Blend retails in 14 UK-wide stores including one in Exeter, www.birdandblendtea.com

Nearlywed

NEWS

The latest news from both counties

DEVON-BASED PIQI LIFE LAUNCHES HEALTHY VEGAN WATER KEFIR NOW IN 750ML SIZE

PiQi Life has created a delicious range of vegan, gut-friendly Water Kefir now available in a large 750ml size. PiQi Water Kefir is available in four delicious flavours: Original Fig; Grapefruit and Cardamom; Butterfly Pea Flower and the tasty Ginger and Lemon drink.

Kefir is usually associated with a probiotic gut-friendly drink based on milk. However, another kefir is completely dairy free. With many people choosing to avoid dairy for health reasons, the team at PiQi Life has created sparkling fermented Water Kefir. It has all of the great gut health benefits of traditional Kefir but without dairy.

PiQi’s Water Kefir is a living fermented drink made from water, kefir culture (a mixture of bacteria and yeast known as ‘water kefir grains’) and organic sugar. The fermentation process gives the product its distinctive light tangy taste and probiotic qualities.

PiQi Water Kefir is lovingly brewed in small batches at the company’s premises in North Devon where they use only the finest sustainably sourced organic ingredients and uplifting botanicals. PiQi Water Kefir is never heat treated or pasteurized, helping preserve the originally intended benefits of kefir and making it a healthy, sustainable choice to processed and dairy-based drinks.

PiQi was founded by long-time fermentation enthusiasts and vegan entrepreneurs Aksana Fitzpatrick and Nick Young who want to help people look after their gut health and wellbeing with a compassionate, plant-based lifestyle.

LUSCOMBE LAUNCH DAMASCENE ROSE BUBBLY FOR MOTHER’S DAY

Celebrate Mother’s Day this spring with the new Luscombe Damascene Rose Bubbly. The jewel in Luscombe’s crown, this delicious organic drink combines damascene rose, Muscat grape juice and Sicilian lemons with sparkling Dartmoor spring water to create a delicious champagne alternative, perfect for a springtime family gathering to celebrate Mother’s Day, or a summer wedding.

Damascene Rose Bubbly is a delicately fragranced drink to be enjoyed on its own in a flute and garnished with a single strawberry but also pairs perfectly with a variety of canapés or light seafood dishes such as scallops and white fish.

Luscombe is proud to be the first drinks brand to have gained organic accreditation from the Soil Association and like all of the drinks in Luscombe’s range, Damascene Rose Bubbly contains no artificial additives, sweeteners or concentrates. It’s available in a box of 12 x 27cl bottles priced at £26.50 from https://luscombe.co.uk with free UK delivery on all orders over £60.

Awarded a Royal Warrant, Luscombe has been producing beautifully crafted drinks on a farm in Devon since 1975. The range now includes organic fruit juices, crushes, tonic waters and mixers plus a traditional organic Devon cider. Founder and owner, Gabriel David has become renowned for his pursuit of perfection and a strict no-compromise approach to creating an elegant and delicious multi-award-winning range of drinks that use the very finest organic ingredients and Dartmoor spring water.

“We believe that what we consume makes a difference, not just to our health, but also to our planet and all living beings. We both love ‘living’ foods and the benefits they provide to our bodies and minds. A plant-based compassionate lifestyle has been a big part of our lives and we wanted to share it, so we created PiQiWater Kefir to make it easy to enjoy the benefits of Kefir and look after your gut in a delicious planet-friendly way.” explained Aksana.

PiQi won the Nourish Gold Award in 2022 for its Butterfly Pea Flower kefir water, and the Taste of the West Gold Award in 2022 for its Grapefruit & Cardamom kefir water. All PiQi kefirs are Vegan Certified by the Vegan Society.

To shop, visit https://piqilife.com

FLAPJACKERY INTRODUCES BITE-SIZED FLAPJACKS TO ITS RANGE

Devon-based luxury artisan flapjack company Flapjackery has introduced flapjack bite bags to its range, perfect as wedding favours or as an addition to a dessert table. These delicious new bite-sized, gluten-free chunks of flapjacks that are suitable for vegetarians come in an array of flavours and are handmade in Devon using the finest British ingredients. They’re suitable for freezing and have a shelf life of up to eight weeks.

These affordable bags of flapjack joy are perfect for those who love their flapjacks in small doses and retail for £6.50 per bag (plus postage). Order online at www.flapjackery.co.uk, or visit one of its shops in Tavistock, Plymouth and St Ives (among others).

DITTISHAM HIDEAWAY OFFER A NEW ROMANCE STAY PACKAGE

Dittisham Hideaway in Devon is a collection of four treehouses, five new luxury Shepherds Huts and an original American Airstream 1234 located in the heart of the south Devonshire countryside in a nine-acre private wooded valley with a stream. Dittisham Hideaway is situated just one mile from the beautiful River Dart and the historic village of Dittisham, and only four miles from the scenic port of Dartmouth and nearby beaches.

A stay at the secluded and peaceful Dittisham Hideaway offers backto-nature relaxation for couples and even four-legged friends. As with each of Peter de Savary’s hotels, these self-catered accommodations benefit from a high level of design and carefully considered amenities; from the finest Egyptian cotton bed linen, and a generous welcome hamper of West Country produce and a bottle of wine, to private decks with a traditional wood-fired cedar hot tub, hammock, outdoor chess set, outdoor table football, sun loungers, and Weber BBQ with dining area.

DEVON CHEF AND PUB OWNER UNCORKS HIS NEW WINE SCHOOL

Luke Davies, the owner of Cowick Barton gastro pub and a local wine expert, has launched Devon Local Wine School to host regular wine tastings, food and wine events and wine qualifications for those keen to learn more about wine.

He’ll be hosting a range of fun, informative and affordable wine events ranging from classic cheese and wine nights, Italian and Spanish food and wine pairing evenings, an exclusive six-course wine and food ‘lock-in’ taster nights and specialist wine training for those seeking a qualification in wine.

Luke brings with him a wealth of experience in the food and drink industry and before taking over the Cowick Barton, was an awardwinning professional food and drink trainer. He has 15 years of experience in training thousands of hospitality managers and employees across the country about food and wine from national companies such as Spirit Group; Punch Taverns; Star Pubs and Bars; and Heineken UK. Since taking over The Cowick Barton in 2017, the Grade 11 listed,

Each accommodation also has access to the eco-car charging points, electric wheelbarrows for use during the stay, a dog welcome pack, and a dog and boot wash area.

Romance is in the air with a three-night break for two people in luxury accommodation, perfect for couples and newlyweds. A romantic hamper of pink champagne, strawberries and cream plus fresh flowers will greet guests on arrival and on the first morning, a lazy day indulgent continental breakfast basket will be delivered. One complimentary dinner reservation at a local restaurant is included plus a couples retreat massage. The Romance Stay package costs £995 for three nights (off-peak, mid-week) in a shepherd’s hut (weekends and peak times cost more.)

To book, visit https://dittishamhideaway.co.uk

500-year-old Tudor pub has built a loyal base of foodie customers who are attracted to his delicious cook-from-scratch menu.

Luke commented: “I’m looking forward to bringing fun and highly energetic wine-tasting events and welcoming people from all backgrounds whatever their knowledge of wine may be. Opening a wine school is a long-held ambition and I can’t wait to get started.”

He added: “As a chef and a wine educator, I just love making the perfect food and wine pairings and experience on the palette how you bring out the best of both with a faultless match, I look forward to specialising in food and wine experiences available to wine lovers and foodies across Exeter and Devon.”

All classes will be held at Cowick Barton, 121 Cowick Lane, Exeter, EX2 9HF. All events can be seen at www.localwineschool.com/devon/events

ST AUSTELL BREWERY RENEWS PARTNERSHIP WITH FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS

St Austell Brewery has renewed its partnership with the popular local Cornish ‘buoy band’ group, Fisherman’s Friends, for another year. Tribute – St Austell Brewery’s iconic Pale Ale – continues to be the official beer brand of Fisherman’s Friends. With more than 10 years working together, the two are both deeply rooted in what it means to be Cornish.

SALCOMBE BREWERY CO LAUNCH NEW SAISON SPICED FARMHOUSE ALE

Salcombe Brewery Co has launched Saison, a new spiced farmhouse ale. It’s available in cans (330ml x 12 for £25) from retail outlets, including the brewery shop and online for nationwide delivery from www.salcombebrewery.com. It has also just been launched to trade in 9g casks.

Saison (5.5% ABV) is a farmhouse ale brewed with added peppercorns, coriander seed and orange peel. The result is a very special floral, spicy ale with notes of honey and citrus, culminating in a crisp dry finish, perfect for weddings.

Head brewer, Sam Beaman, comments: “We are delighted to introduce the fourth and final ale in our new small batch range. Saisonstyle ales originated in the farmhouses of Wallonia, the French-speaking region of Belgium. Traditionally they are low in alcohol, light-bodied, and highly carbonated. We have created our Saison using a farmhouse yeast strain, and have added a selection of spices to make it our own. The result is a highly drinkable, warming ale, perfect for the winter season.”

Laura McKay, head of marketing for St Austell Brewery’s Beers and Brands says: “Continuing our partnership with Fisherman’s Friends was an easy decision, they truly encapsulate the energy of Cornwall, so it seemed only right to continue our longstanding relationship. St Austell Brewery is delighted to continue our journey together.

Jon Cleave, Fisherman’s Friends singer adds: “The partnership with St Austell Brewery and Tribute is something Fisherman’s Friends are proud to continue into 2023.”

To find out more, visit https://staustellbrewery.co.uk/our-beers/tribute

SANDRIDGE

BARTON’S DART VALLEY RESERVE 2021 IS RECOGNISED IN WINE COMPETITION

One of the region’s leading vineyards, Sandridge Barton, the home of Sharpham Wine, has won a prestigious award for its white wine in a major competition. ‘Dart Valley Reserve 2021’ was voted the region’s ‘Best Dry White Wine’ at the WineGB West Awards.

This year’s awards were judged at the winery’s very own new visitor centre and the judges said they were impressed by the winery, which is tucked into rolling hills between Torbay and the River Dart.

Winemakers from the famous Sharpham Estate completed their move across the Dart to the new state-of-the-art winery at Sandridge Barton last year and this is the first major award to be won by the team since the 40-year-old Sharpham Wine brand was relocated.

“It was a real pleasure to welcome the prestigious team of judges to our new winery and to be able to offer them hospitality at our amazing restaurant which is already earning wonderful plaudits for its food and service,” commented Duncan Schwab, CEO and head winemaker.

More than 100 wines were judged on the day - both sparkling and still - and samples from all over the region included white, rosé, red, oaked, and non-oaked and both dry and medium wines.

“The team has done fantastically well to gain this accolade,” he added. “The exciting thing for us is that it allows us to invite the wider public to come and sample this wonderful wine at our new home just outside Stoke Gabriel. We are very proud of our new winery and visitor centre, with its fabulous restaurant run by the Circa team. For many of our visitors this year, it has been a culinary treat to see these talented chefs representing the Devon countryside by creating amazing dishes using local ingredients. One example of this is our highly popular Sunday roasts, which feature the delicious South Devon beef raised on the wider Sandridge Barton estate, close to the vineyards.”

Panel chair for the WineGB West Awards was West Country-based consultant sommelier Rebecca Mitchell who commented: “Sandridge Barton was a wonderful setting for this year’s competition and the team looked after us. We were treated to delicious, locally sourced food at Circa, their on-site restaurant. I speak on behalf of all the judges in saying how impressed we were by the overall very high standard of wine creativity on display for us to judge.”

This year, visitors can expect the launch of the winery’s new ‘Vine to Wine’ tours, which will cover the winemaking process from grape to bottle, as well as new wines to come from this year’s bumper harvest. Bookings for Sandridge Barton’s three self-catering properties are also being taken. The 12-person Sandridge Barton House is perfect for larger groups, the secluded four-person Boathouse is ideal for rural retreats, and the newly-renovated six-person Lower Well Farmhouse is also available.

To find out more please visit sandridgebarton.com

MILLBROOK COTTAGE & ESTATE WIN EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE BADGE

The talented team at Millbrook Cottages have won an inaugural Exceptional Service badge, as part of the Feefo Trusted Service Awards and they’re the only business in hospitality to receive this. The award is in recognition of the team’s sustained progress in consistent service performance, customer interaction and engagement over the past year. It shows that they’re delivering time and again for their customers and placing customer service at the heart of what they do.

To book a stay, visit www.millbrookestate.co.uk Turn to our intimate wedding feature on page 47 to find out more!

SOUTH WEST WINE SCHOOL INTRODUCES NEW WSET LEVEL 3 AWARD IN WINES COURSE AT DARTS FARM

The region’s leading wine educator, South West Wine School is hosting its first Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 course at Darts Farm. Taking place from 13th March for six days for three consecutive weeks, the course is an internationally recognised qualification suited to wine connoisseurs and those in the drinks and hospitality industries in a supervisory capacity. The course costs £875 and is available to book at www.southwestwineschool.co.uk

In addition, the next Level 1 (a one-day course, £210) is on Friday 3rd March 2023 and the next Level 2 (a three-day course on consecutive Fridays, £495) starts on Friday 21st April 2023.

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust is the leader in providing globally recognised education and qualifications in wines and spirits for both professionals and enthusiasts.

Founded by Jonathan and Hayley Reynolds, South West Wine School provides first-rate wine education across the region. Jonathan Reynolds, the co-founder of South West Wine School, says: ‘Whether you’re in the hospitality trade, are a wine enthusiast or need to increase your wine knowledge to give you more confidence when entertaining clients at work, the WSET courses are absolutely brilliant. Each level greatly expands and enriches your understanding of the subject in a comprehensive and structured way. On the courses, people will learn everything from the key grape varieties, viticultural and vinification practices, the principles of food and wine matching and how to correctly serve and store wine to how to describe wine and its characteristics.”

Jonathan continues: “Here at South West Wine School we work with WSET-certified educators to ensure the best possible delivery of courses, giving the highest level of wine education.”

The Estuary Room at Darts Farm, where the courses take place, is the perfect place to learn about wine. Many of the wines tasted are available to buy at the extensive on-site wine shop which sells a carefully selected range of wines from around the world, as well as an excellent selection of both wines and spirits produced locally.

Commenting on the wine school, George Dart says: “I recently attended the South West Wine School WSET Level 2 course. I have always had a strong interest in wine and the course was first-rate. It opened my eyes to how much there is to discover and learn about this fascinating topic. I would recommend this course to everyone.”

WSET Level 1 Award in Wines is a beginner’s introduction to wine suitable for those starting a wine career or pursuing an interest in wine. For individuals new to wine study, this qualification provides a handson introduction to the world of wine. You’ll explore the main types and styles of wine through sight, smell, and taste, while also gaining the basic skills to describe wines accurately and make food and wine pairings. No prior knowledge is required.

WSET Level 2 Award in Wines is the beginner to intermediate qualification exploring wines for those working in the industry - or pure wine and spirit enthusiasts. For those seeking a core understanding of wines, this qualification explores the major grape varieties and important wine regions in which they are grown. You’ll learn about the styles of wines produced from these grapes as well as key classifications and labelling terminology.

During the classroom-based Level 3 course you will learn about wines in a thorough and structured manner and acquire in-depth knowledge enabling you to advise about wine selection with authority.

For further information about South West Wine School or to book a WSET course visit www.southwestwineschool.co.uk

2023 FOOD DRINK DEVON AWARDS ARE OPEN FOR ENTRIES

Following on from the hugely successful awards’ celebration last autumn, entries are now open for the prestigious 2023 Food Drink Devon Awards, supported by platinum sponsor Partners&. The gold standard industry accolades celebrate the very best Devon has to offer, recognising the county’s most respected, influential and passionate artisan food and drink producers and establishments. Entries close on Monday 17th April, with applications welcome from both Food Drink Devon members and nonmembers. This year’s winners will be announced in October.

Categories for this year’s esteemed awards include the Producer Awards with the Food Product of the Year, Drink Product of the Year and Best New Product of the Year. The Retail Awards include categories for Best Retailer and Best Online Retailer while the sought-after Hospitality Awards cover Chef of the Year, Best Fine Dining Restaurant, Best Restaurant, Best Pub, Best Café and Best Takeaway or Street Food as well as the hugely popular, Sustainability Pioneer Award. In addition, every entrant will have the chance to win a silver, gold or platinum award which represent a perfect score of 100%, gold awards recognise scores of 90-

99% and silver, 85-89%.

Greg Parsons, chair of Food Drink Devon, says: “Our annual awards have gone from strength to strength over the past 11 years with their success a testament to the region’s passion for creating outstanding food and drink. Devon boasts a great deal of dynamic and innovative producers and purveyors and hosting the Food Drink Devon Awards allows us to recognise their success and contributions to the food and drink industry.”

Greg, continues: “We’re thrilled for the awards to once again be supported by our platinum sponsor, Partners&. With offices across Devon, Partners& is an insurance advisory business with specialist knowledge in the food and beverage industry.”

To enter the awards visit www.fooddrinkdevon.co.uk/awards/ or email admin@fooddrinkdevon.co.uk. For more information on Food Drink Devon, visit www.fooddrinkdevon.co.uk. For more information on Partners&, please visit www.partnersand.com

NEW FOOD BRAND WILD CORNWALL WINS AWARD

The new wild food brand Wild Cornwall took the Taste of The West awards by storm as they were crowned champion in class for their latest hero product, Rose and Strawberry Red Wine Vinegar.

Born out of a passion for foraging and introducing people to unusual, heritage plants, Wild Cornwall is on a mission to prove that many of the ingredients commonly imported to the UK are surplus to the requirement if you look a little deeper into the hedgerows. Trading for just six months Wild Cornwall distinguishes itself from other brands with new and exciting flavour combinations plus the packaging is chic and sophisticated.

Wild Cornwall entered four products into the Taste of the West Awards this year and was judged Gold and Silver for every entry, however, it was the Rose and Strawberry Red Wine Vinegar that stole the show. Described as, “Unusual, but an incredibly delicious accompaniment, it’s delicate and versatile with a clear ingredient shining through…it’s also the prettiest colour of pink.”

“We are delighted to be given this recognition so soon after launching,” Says Anna Pardoe, managing director of Wild Cornwall. “It’s wonderful that so many other people are behind us and our brand. Our only regret is not entering more products for judging!”

The Wild Cornwall range includes sauces, oils, vinegar and condiments as well as liqueurs, herbal infusions and seasonings all curated from wild and foraged ingredients on the Cornish Roseland. Based on the picturesque Trelonk Farm, Wild Cornwall has access to 160 acres of biodiverse landscape to forage and farm. Growing seed oil crops using the best and newest farming technologies and using them not only for award-winning food products but combining them with other natural, Cornish ingredients such as wildflowers and honey for a luxurious skincare range.

To shop, visit https://wildcornwall.net

CHEF ADAM HANDLING PUBLISHES LUXURY BOOK COLLECTION

Michelin-starred chef and owner of the Adam Handling Restaurant Group including Ugly Butterfly in Cornwall, Adam Handling, has launched his stunning boxset, a definitive collection of three recipe books that tell his story, the journey of his restaurant group, the road to his first Michelin star, and the ethos of sustainability that underpins it all.

Ten years in the making, this pioneering trilogy is “the book I’ve always wanted to publish,” says Adam. It shares his and his team’s deeply personal story, memories from Adam’s childhood and early career, recipes from every version of his flagship restaurant, alongside the lessons they’ve learned on the journey to becoming zero-waste, plus Adam’s favourite cocktail recipes.

The three books, ‘Frog by Adam Handling’; ‘Why Waste?’ and ‘Perfect, Three Cherries’ encompass everything that Adam and his restaurant and bar teams have learned and developed over the years. From recipes and ingredients to their approach to sustainability, as well as forewords and contributions from some of the most respected leaders of the food and drink industry. In Adam’s words, “This book is designed for my younger

self. It’s everything I would have wanted to know when I was starting my career. This collection is something I would have loved to have had when I was learning more about my field. It only started as one book, showcasing Frog, but the more we dove into it, the waste book and cocktail books became clear. It’s the stuff that people don’t see behind the scenes – the research, the training, the things we had to do to make Frog what it is today. To understand what Frog is, you need to understand the waste element, the foraging, the sustainability, the provenance of ingredients, everything. It became clear that there was no Frog book without the other two.”

Alongside recipes and personal memories, the books are filled with stunning imagery and ingredient and produce maps of Britain plus every aspect of the books has been thoughtfully designed by Adam himself. He says: “I’m unbelievably proud of these books, not just because of what they represent, but because of the team that’s helped me to write them. My chefs, the front of house, back of house, bartenders, my operations team - people that have dedicated years of their lives to me and my restaurant group, they’ve all contributed to these books. Education, inspiration, motivation, that’s what we do as a team and that’s what I want these books to do. They’re designed for people that want to learn and do something different”, says Adam.

The books are available to purchase now individually (from £30 to £70), or as a luxury, limited-edition boxset containing all three books (£160), www.adamhandling.co.uk/gifts-and-merchandise

To book a table at Ugly Butterfly, visit www.uglybutterfly.co.uk

T: 01752 220011 (Gift vouchers available)

CLASSIC ENGLISH ELEGANCE

The historic, family-run Royal Glen Hotel Sidmouth has recently re-opened. It’s an attractive 18th-century building, boasting a combination of Regency and Gothic architectural features, that’s home to a selection of stylish bedrooms, a luxurious drawing room plus a garden, sundeck and verandah.

Couples looking to book a Devonshire mini-moon, or a honeymoon in the region can indulge in fine dining in the restaurant, enjoy their favourite tipple at the bar and make use of the indoor swimming pool and a well-equipped gymnasium.

This hotel, part of the Bespoke Hotels group, is perfectly placed for exploring both the South Devon coast and the East Devon Area of

Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are sea views to be admired from various points inside the property, and Sidmouth’s picturesque sand and shingle beach is just a few metres walk away. This area of South Devon is one of England’s most popular holiday and short-break destinations offering something for everyone – whether visitors want to get active, or kick back and relax.

Guests can enjoy a four-night stay available from Sunday to Friday throughout March including dinner, bed and a full English breakfast at Royal Glen Hotel Sidmouth for just £159 per room per night. Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding can exclusively reveal further April offers! To find out more and to book, call 01395 513221 or visit www.royalglenhotel.co.uk

Freebies & OFFERS

Take advantage of these great giveaways

WIN A PAIR OF STEVE MADDEN BRIDAL SHOES

The hunt for the perfect bridal shoe ends here with the chance to win the ultimate pair for your special day from Steve Madden. The shimmering Bridal Collection is not only amazing for brides but bridesmaids too, ensuring a picture-perfect look on the big day. For everyone who loves to shine you can choose from rose gold, silver, nude and white with finishes that include satin, rhinestone, leather and clear materials. If the shoe fits… be your own Cinderella! Check out www.stevemadden.co.uk.

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EAST AND MID DEVON Spotlight on...

LYMPSTONE MANOR, EXMOUTH

We reveal where to wed

Part of the Michael Caines Collection of properties, Lympstone Manor country house hotel is situated in 28 stunning acres on the foreshore of the tranquil Exe estuary with breathtaking views and a 10-acre vineyard. Check Michael Caines MBE heads up the Michelin-starred kitchen and focuses on using local produce.

Ceremonies can be held in the stylish Berryhead dining room for up to

KENNAWAY HOUSE, SIDMOUTH

Kennaway House is a beautiful Grade II listed Regency mansion dating back to 1805 flanked by a large pretty garden filled with ancient chestnut trees, shrubs and flowers. A lamp post-lined driveway borders the lawn with a small car park at one end and access to the seafront that's just a five-minute walk away.

There's a stone staircase leading up to a beautiful set of period doors welcoming guests inside and the house boasts a unique curving façade and original Georgian sash windows plus other period features including a Regency double staircase. The interior has been lovingly decorated throughout and the expert team pride itself on the high standard of care given to each wedding couple.

Ceremonies take place in the beautifully restored Hatton Wood room with its wooden floor for up to 80 guests. Alternatively, the Amyatt Room boasting garden vistas can host an intimate 30 loved ones. The Cellar Bar is the largest space with a capacity for up to 100 guests that has recently been fitted with a new wooden floor and is equipped with a sound system. There's a large, fully fitted professional kitchen with a connecting door into the function room. Receptions take place in all of these rooms and marquees can be hired for the garden, or a champagne reception can take place outdoors on the lawn.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 01395 515551, www.kennawayhouse.org.uk

60 guests while intimate gatherings of just 25 loved ones can be hosted in the Mamhead suite. Couples can book exclusive use of the property and guests can enjoy the hotel’s selection of luxury rooms including the estuary suites and shepherd’s huts.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 01395 202 040, https://lympstonemanor.co.uk

THE CORN BARN, CULLOMPTON

This rustic-inspired venue has benefitted from sympathetic restoration revealing original features such as a highvaulted ceiling, hefty oak beams, exposed stonework and natural cob walls creating a relaxed feel. Large windows flood the barn with natural daylight and offer a pleasant vista over the courtyard.

This walled, sunny, south-facing and landscaped courtyard, where ceremonies can be held enjoys a seating area and generous terraces, oozing a Mediterranean vibe. It’s also home to a cider orchard, where couples can get married or have their photographs taken. Ceremonies can also take place at the end of the main barn with its chapel-like feel, and in the loft while receptions enjoy the beautiful backdrop of the barn.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 01884 32107, www.thecornbarn.com

HIGHER HOLCOMBE, OTTERY ST MARY

This enchanting venue that’s set in 30 acres of pasture has been transformed into woodland glades and wildflower meadows, revealing the Silver Birch ‘church’ which is an avenue of silver birch trees providing shade for al fresco ceremonies of up to 60 guests with a secluded, romantic feel. This space also lends itself to an outdoor picnic as an alternative to the wedding breakfast. Ceremonies take place outside in The Willow ‘cathedral’ - a specially planted area that features three outdoor ‘chapels’ at the end of the walkway aisle for up to 80 guests. There’s also a stretch tent in the ‘posh paddock’ for outdoor ceremonies (if the weather is unpredictable) or a drinks reception, plus there’s a firepit for use when the sun goes down.

From the orchard, there’s a bridge over the brook that leads to the sandstone terrace located in front of the wooden Old Dairy party barn nestled in the heart of the site where receptions take place. This is a

beautifully renovated old milking parlour boasting a rustic neutral colour palette for couples to decorate as they wish and south-facing views of the Devonshire countryside across the length of one wall. The handmade wooden trestle tables can seat up to 80 loved ones on benches or chairs and at dusk, the ambience lighting adds a special touch.

The farmhouse Mediterranean courtyard can be enjoyed for intimate pre-wedding dinners and a morning-after brunch. The spacious modern farmhouse accommodates the main wedding party while other guests can stay in the unique Lotus Belle glamping tents and cute shepherd’s huts with all accommodations included in the venue hire. There’s also the quirky, self-contained Hobbit House honeymoon suite nestled deep in the heart of the stunning grounds.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 07740 978 408, www.higherholcombe.co.uk

HAREFIELD

BARN, CREDITON

A large oak-framed porch welcomes guests to Harefield Barn that’s situated on a family-run farm, just a 10-minute drive from Exeter enjoying views of the surrounding Devonshire countryside. It’s a wedding photographer’s dream, being light and airy thanks to the gable end window and with a modern and spacious yet homely feel. Glass walling is used extensively to showcase the fabulous views. Three sets of large bi-fold doors open out on to the spacious paved terrace from both the Sawpit Bar and Main Hall, with crisp horizontal boarding finishing the exterior, and the terrace flows seamlessly on to extensive lawn areas and the field beyond.

On the terrace, The Clock House provides the perfect location for an al fresco ceremony, and steps lined with ornamental grasses lead to the special horseshoe sculpture. There’s also a wildflower meadow with pathways, perfect for photographs. Inside ceremonies can take place in The Tallet, a dedicated ceremony room where the vaulted ceiling and

flexible lighting provide a calm, chapel-like atmosphere. Licensed for up to 100 people, The Tallet can be used alongside the spacious bar and gallery areas. There’s also the Main Hall, a large licensed area for 150 guests seated and up to 200 loved ones standing. In contrast, The Leveret Suite is perfect for an intimate marriage before a larger ceremony, licensed for up to 10 people.

The reception meal for up to 140 guests and the evening party for up to 200 people usually take place in the Main Hall, although intimate gatherings are possible in The Bar area. Use of Harefield Barn and its grounds is exclusive and the extended hire period gives them the entire day beforehand to decorate and prepare. Couples can choose their suppliers (including caterers) to create a celebration personal to them.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 07541 121 404, www.harefieldbarn.co.uk

VALLEYSIDE BARN, BICKLEIGH

This traditional, rustic-inspired barn finished with a sleek black steel framework is located in the stunning Exe Valley. It’s accessed via a hedge-lined driveway that passes by a picturesque pond and beautifully manicured gardens home to a weeping willow tree covering a jetty providing many big-day photo opportunities.

Inside, the spacious barn where ceremonies and receptions for up to 150 guests take place provides the wow factor with its handmade chandeliers and bespoke glazed bar leading to a terrace adjoining the paddocks where ceremonies can also take place for up to 150 guests

overlooking the rolling hills of the surrounding countryside. An al fresco ceremony option for up to 90 loved ones is in the Mediterranean-style courtyard that’s tucked away and draped in sweet honeysuckle and magnolia, also a great spot for a summer drinks reception.

Couples can enjoy the stylish honeymoon suite while their nearest and dearest can stay in the three luxury glamping safari tents sleeping up to 20 people.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 01884 855 538, www.valleysidebarn.co.uk

HAWKE BARN, TIVERTON

This beautiful 16th-century building oozes rustic charm. It's home to exposed oak beams, a high open-vaulted ceiling, exposed stonework, flagstone floors and contemporary full-height windows that flood the venue with natural light.

The main doors open out on to the sheltered and landscaped south-facing private courtyard complete with seating and a terrace, revealing views sweeping across the rolling countryside. An impressive cluster of mature beech trees creates a wonderful photographic backdrop and extra guests will be horses looking on from their stable windows!

The timeless and natural aesthetic of the barn lends itself to many different wedding themes. This impressive, intimate space hosts ceremonies and receptions for up to 60 guests and ceremonies can also take place anywhere in the grounds while the reception party can spill out on to the courtyard. There's a new, top-of-the-range, fully-fitted catering kitchen on-site available for use by the chosen caterer and a bespoke gift from the owners of Hawke Barn is offered to the happy couple.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 01278 555107, https://hawkebarnvenue.co.uk

UPTON BARN &WALLED GARDEN, CULLOMPTON, DEVON

This award-winning, exclusive-use wedding venue offers an indoor and outdoor ceremony space in the beautiful Walled Garden under the Oak Arbour, and in the Cider Barn for year-round celebrations. The venue incorporates as many eco-friendly elements as possible, from biomass heating and hot water to a borehole used for water supply.

A recent addition is The Paddock, a stylish light-filled space providing the bridal party with a spa-worthy environment to get ready in, overlooking the rolling hills and patchwork fields of the Devonshire countryside through the vast floor-to-ceiling windows. The carefully considered interior design details and colour schemes have created ultra-luxe spaces equipped with everything the bridal party will need to get ready on the morning of the wedding including a hair-washing basin and hair and make-up stations. There are also showers, fluffy towels, premium toiletries and plenty of little luxuries creating a home-from-home feel. This additional space is available to hire from 7 am until the ceremony begins when the wedding coordinator will accompany everyone down to the main venue for the wedding entrance.

The Stalls are located just behind The Paddock and offer guests somewhere seriously stylish to stay on the night of the wedding in new accommodation pods set within a woodland glade. These rustic retreats with Hygge-inspired décor have been designed in a minimalist Scandistyle. The Stalls can host up to eight people (two per pod) and are automatically booked for the night of the wedding to retain exclusivity.

The venue marries the rustic charm of a Devon farm with a modern finish. Included in the wedding packages are the hire of trestle tables and chairs, a large oak barrel to display the cake, all glassware, a wood-burning stove and logs, a firepit plus outdoor tables, chairs and parasols.

The venue’s hand-picked collection of local caterers includes Pickle Shack and Mulberry Catering Co, both family-run businesses using independent suppliers and seasonal produce. Both work hard to ensure minimal food wastage.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 01884 38302, www.uptonbarn.com

Images

Wed and breakfast

Hot hotel venues

What’s new?

THE HEADLAND IN NEWQUAY NOW OFFERS CLIFFSIDE WEDDINGS

Couples searching for the ultimate Cornish wedding venue can now get married on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at the five-star hotel, cottages and spa, The Headland. Dramatically positioned on a private headland, surrounded on three sides by the Atlantic Ocean, the majestic Victorian hotel offers the ideal luxury location for an unforgettable wedding with no fewer than six different areas to say ‘I do’.

Recently, the hotel has secured the licence to also host wedding ceremonies on its lower lawns with iconic views over Fistral Beach. In addition to this, it also boasts beautifully decorated, elegant private rooms, old-style grandeur and charm.

Couples and their guests can enjoy no fewer than six swimming pools, cocktails in an outdoor jacuzzi as the sun sets, and a five-bubble-rated spa with expert therapists on hand to destress you before the big day and detox you afterwards.

Whether it’s intimate ceremonies for up to 50 guests or truly lavish celebrations making use of the hotel’s 88-plus rooms, The Headland is the perfect venue designed to create wedding memories to last a lifetime. It’s

a venue for all seasons, offering a cosy Cornish sanctuary for dramatic autumn and winter weddings or the perfect setting for spring and summer ceremonies.

The team of event coordinators, chefs, and front-of-house teams at the hotel are all dedicated to ensuring the celebrations exceed expectations.

Couples can begin their exciting new adventure together with a stay in one of the bridal suites on their wedding night. They can honeymoon in one of the most dramatic locations in Cornwall and go surfing, paddle boarding, coast-walking and exploring or simply relax.

To book, visit www.headlandhotel.co.uk

NEW CONTINENTAL HOTEL, PLYMOUTH

The New Continental Hotel in Plymouth is a grand Victorian building marrying traditional Art Deco details with modern elements. Inside, the glamorous vintage décor and romantic, classic style make it the perfect setting for a timeless wedding.

Ceremonies and receptions usually take place in the Green Room for up to 50 guests and the Athena Room for up to 150 loved ones plus there’s the stylish Executive Room holding up to 100 people.

Receptions can take place in the Athena Room and the Green Room

and also in the beautiful Ballroom for up to 250 loved ones with its statement chandeliers, own bar and dancefloor.

The city centre location offers a variety of photographic backdrops close by, from the iconic Plymouth Hoe and Royal William Yard to Devonport Park.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 01752 276 798, www.newcontinental.co.uk

BOVEY CASTLE, NEWTON ABBOT, DEVON

Nestled in 275 acres of countryside with views stretching across Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle is one of Devon’s most popular hotels. This iconic luxury country house hotel has won numerous awards, including five red AA stars in 2017 for its exceptional hospitality – the AA’s highest possible accolade. Having been acquired by The Eden Hotel Collection in 2014, it has recently appointed a new general manager Dean Gunston who has worked for the Eden group for more than 13 years.

The hotel offers 60 bedrooms along with 22 self-catering country lodges tucked away within 275 acres of beautiful countryside. It’s also home to Smith’s Brasserie, an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, and the Elan Spa, while on-site experiences include falconry, archery, cider and sloe gin-making plus 4x4 off-road driving.

Inside, the property boasts a grand Jacobean-style staircase, stonecarved chimneys and the most beautiful hand-carved oak panelling, perfect for a dramatic big-day backdrop. Each room offers a luxurious finish, decorated in a traditional style, with contemporary touches.

Ceremonies take place in a choice of function suites including the Cathedral Room with views of the valley from every window for between 80 and 120 guests, The Adam Room with its open fireplace for between 18 to 30 loved ones and the Library with private access to the South Terrace for an intimate14 people. For an outdoor ceremony, there’s also The Summerhouse, set in a quiet corner of the grounds and flanked by tall yew hedges and herbaceous borders.

Receptions take place in the Great Western, Art Deco-style suite for up to 120 guests, in the Bovey Room home to sumptuous furnishings for up to 30 people and in the Mulberry Room with its striking chandelier for an intimate 14 loved ones. A complimentary Valley Castle room is available for the couple on the night of the wedding, discounted accommodation is provided for an anniversary stay if the wedding was at Bovey Castle and complimentary menu tasting is offered for exclusive-use weddings.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 01647 445 000, www.boveycastle.com

THE BEDFORD HOTEL, TAVISTOCK, DEVON

This beautifully restored hotel stands pride of place in the heart of this pretty market town where the hotel’s grand façade is a local landmark. The charming, historic property oozes style with warm and welcoming public areas boasting original features and antiques plus there’s a range of stunning spaces available for weddings.

The historic Woburn Room, with its original intricate ceiling and panelled walls, provides the perfect backdrop for a ceremony, whilst the contemporary Gallery 26, an architect-designed space with floor-toceiling windows flooding the room with natural light and with a backdrop of the hotel’s original stone walls is the ideal area for the wedding breakfast and evening celebration. For something more intimate, the oak-panelled Tavistock Room with its feature fireplace is a cosy and sophisticated setting for a small gathering or a private dinner.

The pretty front garden and the ancient Walled Garden provide picture-perfect settings for a drinks reception on a summer’s day and complimentary tasting and bridal suite for the wedding couple. It also showcases the skills of the hotel’s gardeners and is home to a fragrant herb garden used by the hotel’s chefs.

The 31 individually styled bedrooms include the hotel’s comfortable Classic rooms and the indulgent Four Poster rooms and the Bridal Suite. Exclusive-use weddings are a popular option at The Bedford with guests making use of all of these rooms.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 01822 613221, www.bedford-hotel.co.uk

TWO BRIDGES HOTEL, NR PLYMOUTH, DEVON

This country house hotel located on the banks of the West Dart River in the heart of Dartmoor National Park is a former coaching inn. The lawns sweep down to the water with panoramic views offering a backdrop for photographs.

The interior oozes character with antiques, log fires and romantic candlelit areas. The individually styled bedrooms range from the Country Rooms decorated in a traditional style to the indulgent Premier Rooms boasting comfortable four-poster beds and spa baths. The Bridal Suite is complimentary for the couple on their wedding night.

The light-filled Fountain Room is ideal for ceremonies and receptions with French doors opening on to the gardens, while the historic, oakpanelled Tors Room filled with antiques is another ceremony option for up to 140 guests. There’s also the elegant Riverside Pagoda for al fresco ceremonies of up to 140 guests on the lawn and the Georgian Room for an intimate wedding breakfast for up to 20 guests.

Ceremony licence? Yes

Contact: 01822 892 300, www.twobridges.co.uk

Maggie McCall

Maggie McCall

Time of

OUR LIVES

Deer’s

Molton

Jessica (Jess) Pearson and Edward (Ed) Crumpton married on 15th July 2022 at Deer’s Leap, Devon.

Images courtesy of Little Silver Photography

and Ed met on the dancefloor at the Dartmoor Arts Festival, which used to run every year. “I was dancing alone and got nudged into a circle that had formed around two men who were squat kicking and Ed was one of these men,” Jess tells us. “His bright blonde shoulder-length hair and impressive dance moves caught my eye! He later asked me to dance, but I felt shy so I didn’t.” Four years later, Jess and Ed matched on Tinder. “We enjoyed our first date in an art gallery and the rest is history!” Jess says. “We still laugh about Ed’s dance moves that night at the festival!”

Ed proposed to Jess at the Valley of The Rocks in Exmoor, in between rain storms. “He had written a speech, which he later added to, and used as his wedding vows,” Jess tells us. He also presented me with chocolates and bucks fizz. I had already chosen my 14-carat gold moonstone and infinity knot ring because I had sensed that a proposal might be coming, although my body still went into shock when it did!”

SETTING THE SCENE

“I have known the Devon-based venue Deer’s Leap for many years and after visiting other venues, it seemed silly not to choose somewhere that everybody would feel super relaxed at,” Jess tells us. “Deer’s Leap is a rustic-inspired venue in a beautiful setting with stunning valley views, a gazebo by the lake and a stone barn. It also provided accommodation on-site for many of our loved ones which was perfect because we wanted to host a weekend wedding. We planned an evening to ourselves there on Thursday night, and then a small team helped us set up on Friday. Our guests who were staying on-site checked in on Friday from 4 pm and our wedding took place on Saturday. On Sunday, we enjoyed spending quality time with everybody before checking out on Monday. The owners of Deer’s Leep, Heather and James were wonderful hosts and worked hard to support us during the lead-up to our wedding as well as throughout the day. Along with their team, they all went above and beyond,” Jess says.

The happy couple tells us how wonderful their ceremony was, with live music performed by their dear friend Sam Dowden and poems read by both of their mothers. “Saying our vows was a very special moment,” Jess explains. “Deer’s Leap is a farm and Colin the cockerel with his two girlfriend hens decided to join us for our ceremony by wandering over and sitting down to watch us get married which our guests loved!”

Deer’s Leap is a DIY wedding venue that Jess and Ed could style their way. “Plenty of items such as the chairs and tables for up to 100 guests, glasses, decorations, signage, lawn games and crockery were already available at the venue,” Jess tells us.

“Our speeches are wonderful. My dad had written a poem for me and my mum spoke about me growing up, which included some embarrassing stories! Ed and I thanked the wedding party and Ed’s best man gave an amazing speech all about Ed.” - Jess

“Our colour theme was based on sweet pea colours along with plenty of macramé. Ed and I are both artists and Ed specialises in rope-knotted art, hence the macramé. For our centrepieces, we had long stretches of white cards painted with pastel inks which ran down the middle of the tables. We placed one large glass and macramé-decorated bottle filled with flowers and the table name in the centre of each table. On either side, there were two small light blue ceramic bottles filled with flowers that my dad had made alongside two antique cameras on each table because I’m a filmmaker and a lover of antiques.”

Jess and Ed’s top table where their parents, best man, maid-ofhonour and partners were seated ran along the middle wall of the barn so that everybody was sat relatively close by. The remainder of the trestle tables were set out in a herringbone pattern. The couple chose locations that were special to them as their table names, from holidays to places they love, with the top table being named Lundy Island. “Our place names were a printed design that my mum wrote each name on in calligraphy,” Jess explained. “We also had other handmade items, for example, I created napkin decorations with dried flowers, leaves and wooden beads for each guest. For our favours, I also made small wall weavings and my dad, who is a potter, created blue heart-shaped magnets. Ed created knotted monkey fist keyrings and our best man, Chris, made his condiment chilli sauce bottles. We also bought some Clovelly Soap Company soaps as a nod to where I grew up.”

The couple created large circles from some painted cards and hung these on the stone barn walls. “I made some macramé bunting which was strung down the large wooden steps to the tennis court and Ed made a macramé celebration arch for the gazebo,” Jess says. “We used my dad’s large blue ceramic vases filled with flowers that our florist, Harriet, arranged and placed on either side of the macramé arch. We hung milk bottles containing flowers on hooks along the aisle and at the end of the pews. There were candles and lanterns added to the gazebo steps and the barn steps. Deer’s Leap is decorated with plenty of fairylights and festoon lighting which creates such a romantic backdrop.”

Jess and Ed hired a family friend, who is a great caterer, to provide their wedding breakfast which included salads and sharing platters of vegan, fish and meat options. “Caroline, the chef, made the most amazing pudding buffet, with raspberry and chocolate terrine and Turkish delight, nectarine and mint tea pavlova topped with toasted flaked almonds and pomegranate and vegan coconut panna cotta with mango and ginger coulis,” Jess tells us. “We provided our own canapés bought from Ocado and cooked by Caroline and we also bought pasties from the East and West Bakery and pizza for our evening buffet. Heather and James kindly heated our pasties and cooked our evening pizza and for a small extra fee, we hired Heather and James’ ice cream bike, serving various flavours. We were keen for our guests not to be hungry so we placed snacks on the bar for people to graze on. We loved the fact that Heather and James were so accommodating with drinks, not charging corkage meant we were able to provide our own alcohol whilst supplementing this with drinks from the Deer’s Leap bar.”

Their three-tier naked cake was made by a family friend with a raspberry and milk chocolate layer and a mango tier. “We also had a gluten-free and vegan Victoria sponge cake,” Jess tells us.

Images courtesy of Hettie Pearson Photography

“Every moment was precious, joyful and filled with so much love! Due to the pandemic, we had not seen some friends for a long time, which made it extra special!” - Jess and Ed

LOOKING THE PART

Jess had researched plenty of wedding dresses online and decided on an ivory sequin style. “I teamed it with fresh flowers worn in my hair that were provided by our florist, a beautiful cathedral-length veil, plus a pair of opal earrings and a necklace which were a gift from my sister-in-law,” she says. During the evening, I wore a different sequinned gown with a matching cardigan, a sequin festival-style hat and a pair of Converse trainers. I gave light-up floral headbands to all of the women to wear during the evening.”

Ed wore a cobalt blue suit teamed with a pink tie while his ushers wore matching navy waistcoats with pink ties and a pair of black or blue trousers and his best man wore a navy suit. “During the evening, Ed wore a pair of cowboy boots and a cowboy ten-gallon hat,” Jess says. “He also gave colourful patterned waistcoats to his ushers, groomsmen and best man and a trilby hat to both of our dads. His brother, Mark, wore his blue suit and all of the men in the wedding party had blue thistle buttonholes.”

Jess’s maid-of-honour, Imogen, was pregnant so she wore a dusky pink maternity dress that was different to their two bridesmaids, Hettie and Amy who wore light-blue dresses.

TIME TO CELEBRATE

At the beginning of the day, Ed, along with his ushers and best man made a surprise movie for Jess. “I was presented with this video of Ed dancing down the aisle in his budgie smugglers mouthing words to a love song!” she tells us.

“During the drinks reception, musician Sam Dowden performed again while their guests enjoyed garden games on the lawn. “There’s a games barn on-site where everybody could win prizes. We even had a tug-of-war competition with my bridal party against Ed’s and my team won!” Jess tells us.

Ed had previously decided to ride the owner’s horse during the afternoon. “I had thought Heather might have declined but she reminded me that she rarely says no to requests!” Jess says. “So, Ed ended up on Gato whilst people cheered him on, hence the cowboy hat and boots!”

The couple’s first dance was improvised to the song In My Life by The Beetles. “We then had a band and DJ playing until the early hours. Everybody loved it and we were told many times that it was the best wedding that people had ever been to!”

THE DREAM TEAM

Venue, Deer’s Leap, www.deersleapweddings.co.uk | Photographer, Little Silver Photography, www.littlesilverphotography.co.uk | Photographer, Hettie Pearson Photography, www.hettiepearsonphotography.com | Photographer, Faye Mendes Photography, www.fayemendesphotography.com |

Bride’s dress and shoes, Monsoon, www.monsoon.co.uk | Veil, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/PromQueenGB | Dried flower buttonholes, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/shopMARANTA | Evening dress, Winifred Rose, www.winifredroseclothing.com | Sequinned hat, www.etsy.com | Hair, Pinned to Perfection, https://pinnedtoperfection.co.uk | Make-up, Anna RJ MUA, www.instagram.com/annarjmua | Groom’s suit, Moss Bros, www.moss.co.uk | Best man’s suit, Daw’s clothing company, https://dawsclothing.co.uk | Evening waistcoats, www.etsy.com/uk/market/ jackfruit_clothing | Maternity bridesmaids dress, John Lewis, www.johnlewis.com | Bridesmaids’ dresses, www.asos.com | Flowers, Sweetpeas + Sunflowers, http://sweetpeasandsunflowers.co.uk | Transport, South Molton Taxi Service, www.southmoltontaxis.co.uk | Stationery, Canva, www.canva.com | Entertainment, Sam Dowden, www.samdowdenmusic.com | Band, Basil’s Balls Up Band, https://en-gb. facebook.com/basilsballsupband

Top tip: “Allow time for breaks together throughout the day and make sure that you’re there for each other. Most importantly, it’s your wedding so do it your way!” - Jess and Ed

“We had some great suppliers including the videographer, Charlotte Dart, who was fantastic and so supportive. Our three photographers, Georgie, Hettie (who is my sister and bridesmaid) and Faye were great at making us feel at ease. Our hair and make-up ladies, Terri and Anna, were awesome and so accommodating!” - Jess and Ed

A premier venue in Plymouth for

Plan

With stunning panoramic views across Plymouth Sound and Dartmoor, Boringdon Park is an elegant and modern venue thats the perfect location for your special day.

Set in the heart of 200 acres of delightful grounds savour the magnificent vista as you approach our ever-popular venue up the impressive driveway – views that will give you a memorable backdrop to an unforgettable day.

ROSWARNE

A UNIQUE, LUXURY, EXCLUSIVE HIRE WEDDING VENUE IN CORNWALL

At Roswarne we know that a wedding is more than the best day of your life; it should linger over a few days or more. Our accommodation suites and party rooms are bookable in many combinations to suit the individual requirements of each happy couple.

Set in six acres of grounds at Holman Park, the last ten years have seen painstaking renovation, and this, combined with the fascinating provenance of Roswarne’s service to the community makes this place so incredibly special...

The most beautiful celebrations will be held at this majestic Regency house. Our unique venue offers everything needed to create your perfect event.

Elizabeth: 07771 518869 | Roswarne House, Holman Park, Tehidy Road, Camborne, Cornwall, TR14 8FD | www.roswarne.co.uk

A AFFAIR family

Jeannette and David’s wedding enjoyed the backdrop of Salcombe Yacht Club and a rustic beachy theme

Images courtesy of Louise Richey Photography

and David met at work and became a couple after sharing a kiss in the lift at a post-Christmas work party. They started dating and welcomed their daughter, Hannah in 2012. Five years later, their son William was born. “David proposed to me on Christmas Day in 2017 during dinner and he had taken our five-year-old daughter shopping for my engagement ring!” Jeanette tells us. “It was a wonderful family proposal.”

Jeanette

The couple chose Salcombe Yacht Club as their venue and decided on a rustic beachy theme styled with navy, gold, red and cream touches. Here, Jeannette tells us all about it...

Jeannette and David Rushton married on 30th July 2021 at Salcombe Yacht Club in Devon.

Our wonderful venue inspired our beach rustic theme. I stayed at the South Sands Hotel the night before the wedding with our daughter. Our bridesmaid, who was David’s sister, and my new mother-in-law joined us on the morning of the wedding to get ready.

Salcombe is one of our favourite places so we wanted to get married overlooking the water.

We all enjoyed a ferry ride to East Portlemouth Beach between the ceremony and the wedding breakfast.

We booked the Chart Room at Salcombe Yacht Club for the ceremony at 2 pm and moved to the terrace afterwards for photographs. Jules at the venue and her amazing team did a wonderful job!

Our son, William, was our pageboy and best man. He was in charge of the ring security box which was so cute!

We loved the two bay trees that we used to decorate the ceremony room.

The wedding breakfast took place at 5 pm and then we moved outside where we stayed until the evening which was magical and so romantic.

Our personalised bunting was made by my new mother-in-law.

I had a charm containing pictures of family members who are no longer with us in my bridal bouquet. Our talented florist sourced Sweetheart roses especially for us which looked beautiful.

Our daughter was our flowergirl. Having our son and daughter at our wedding was perfect –our daughter didn’t want the day to end!

We decorated our day with deep-red, navy, gold and cream-coloured décor.

We had bubbles instead of confetti which worked well.

“A big thank you to our wedding photographer Louise, and her partner who work together. We met them at a local wedding fair.”

– Jeannette and David

We met the magician Lewis Belcher, who we booked to entertain our guests, and our videographer, Caroline at a wedding fair at Plymouth Guildhall.

Our delicious wedding cake was made by a family member and we had a topper created that reflected our family!

My lace dress featured a corset back and was decorated with crystal detail.

If you want bespoke wedding bands, don’t leave this until the last minute!

THE DREAM TEAM

Book a videographer – even if you feel nervous –because they create memories that will last forever. Just forget that the camera is there!

Photographer, Louise Richey Photography, www.louisericheyphotography.com | Venue, Salcombe Yacht Club, www.salcombeyc.org.uk

Videographer, Focus Memory Productions, https://fmpvideos.co.uk | Entertainment, LB magic UK, www.lbmagic.uk | DJ, Andy at Your Big Event, www.yourbigevent.co.uk | Catering, LV Catering Services, www.facebook.com/LVCateringServices | Flowers, Studio Flowers, www.devon-florist-delivery.co.uk | Hair, Meraki, www.beautybymeraki.co.uk | Transport, Salcombe to East Portlemouth Ferry, www.salcombeinformation.co.uk/advertiser/salcombe-ferry-3 | First-night accommodation, South Sands Hotel, www.southsands.com Suit, M&S, www.marksandspencer.com | Charm for the bouquet, Etsy, www.etsy.com | Cake topper, Emma’s Cake Design, https://emmascakedesign.com

I wore plenty of sparkly jewellery and accessories.

TOP TIP:

“Have what you want if your budget allows it. Don’t be influenced by others and try to be organised – don’t leave things until the last minute! Don’t underestimate how long things take.” – Jeannette and David

RUSTIC

romance

Barn wedding venue Trevenna in Cornwall provided the stunning backdrop for Shannon and Josh’s two-day wedding that enjoyed a romantic, rustic theme

Images courtesy of Wild Tide Weddings

Shannon and Josh met at the local rugby club where her uncle was the coach. “Josh joined the club and we just clicked,” Shannon tells us. “He proposed to me at Kennall Vale woods in Cornwall where we had previously visited and carved a tree. He found the tree and proposed by it which was so romantic.” Here, Shannon tells us all about their wedding day at Trevenna which followed a romantic, rustic theme.

Shannon Rodda and Josh Flood married on October 31st 2022 at Trevenna in Cornwall.

We wanted a barn venue and only viewed Trevenna because as soon as we visited, we knew it was the one. It allowed us to host a two-day affair which we wanted.

I had seen our venue on Pinterest before we became engaged. It looked magical and offered some great wedding packages.

Our page boy was our son, Buzz, who looked so cute in this sage-green suit to match the groomsmen.

Our daughter, Thea, was our flowergirl and looked wonderful in her dress chosen to match mine decorated with appliqué.

I loved my romantic wedding dress by Madi Lane Bridal. I chose the style called Elora with a mocha-coloured underskirt which looked beautiful and fashionable.

I teamed my dress with a pair of crystalencrusted sandals which looked so elegant.

I also wore a veil which finished my look.

a

Our wedding was styled with pieces that reflected our natural, romantic, rustic-inspired theme.

Our centrepieces were bottles holding a few bunny tail stems which looked so cute!

We chose trestle tables decorated with candles and had plenty of fairylights!

I made all of our wedding flowers and I adored my bridal bouquet made with silk roses, eucalyptus, gypsophila, pampas, and greenery.

Our bridesmaids all looked stunning in their sage green, soft pink and natural-coloured dresses. This combination of colours worked so well together.

The hair accessories and buttonholes were made using dried flower varieties.

My mum, Martine, is

professional hairdresser and owner of the multi-award-winning organic hair and beauty salon Demoda in Redruth so she created my bridal hairstyle.

Highlights on the menu for our wedding breakfast were chicken caesar salad, coconut and chilli soup, beef and chicken for the main course as well as a vegetarian pie. For dessert, everyone tucked into a trio of brownies and cheesecake topped with fruit.

We gave the children activity packs to keep them amused!

Our delicious three-tier cake had a Cherry Bakewell layer, a Victoria sponge tier and a white chocolate and raspberry one.

We entertained our guests with a tattoo bar which everybody loved!

We hired a DJ for the evening and provided some fun props for our guests to take photographs with.

THE DREAM TEAM

Everybody gathered together to light sparklers at dusk!

Photographer, Wild Tide Weddings, www.wildtideweddings.com | Venue and cake, Trevenna, www.trevenna.co.uk

Hair, Martine Rodda for Demoda Organic Hair & Beauty Salon, 01209 843 446, www.demodasalons.com | Wedding dress, The Bridal Studio, 01326 560 903, https://bridal-studio-helston.co.uk | Hired suits, Moss Bros (Truro branch), 01872 225 369, www.moss.co.uk/store/039-moss-bros-truro | Pageboy suit, www.etsy.com/uk | Flowergirl dress, www.jjshouse.co.uk

Josh wore a sage-green suit and looked so handsome!

Our groomsmen wore sage-green suits to match Josh’s that we hired. They teamed them with pink ties, white shirts, brown shoes, a pair of braces and buttonholes – they looked great!

“We enjoyed a family-moon because my mum, Martine, treated all of our family to a holiday in Mauritius where we all stayed at the Preskil Island Resort. She helped look after our children who were one and three years old at the time of the holiday.” – Shannon

We sell our dresses at a minimum of half the RRP. We have an array of dresses, all designer, various size, style and colours, so why not pop along and try a few, let’s see if we can find your “I do” dress.

BRIDAL RELOVED BARNSTAPLE

1st & 2nd floor, 4 Cross St, Barnstaple, Devon EX31 1BD  01271 375 877, barnstaple@bridalreloved.co.uk www.bridalreloved.co.uk

www.uptonbarn.com

One of Cornwall’s most unique small wedding venues, Pengersick Castle is steeped in history with tales of shipwrecks, smuggling and hidden treasure. Grade I listed and dating back to 1520 the castle oozes charm and character with ornately carved fireplaces, massive beams and fine carved stone mullion windows. The castle makes the most magical backdrop for your special day.

PENGERSICK LANE, PRAA SANDS, PENZANCE, CORNWALL TR20 9SJ

Ready to WED

These intimate and elopement wedding venues in Devon and Cornwall are small yet perfectly formed

Tipi Weddings is a romantic outdoor wedding setting located just five minutes’ from the wild Atlantic coast. It’s perfect for couples wanting a woodland wedding under the willow, wood and canvas pavilion perched by a clear brook and under a canopy of oak and ash, and the latest addition is legal ceremonies beside the beautiful lake.

Cornish

It’s also ideal for a tipi wedding or a festival-inspired celebration with camping and glamping accommodation available. The family-run team offer plenty of options for smaller weddings too, from the elopement packages to those for intimate weddings with dinner served in the pavilion followed by a campfire in a woodland clearing or up to 50 guests in the new Star Tent.

Book it: 01208 880 781, www.cornishtipiweddings.co.uk/other-ceremonies; www.facebook.com/CornishTipiWeddings; www.instagram.com/cornishtipis

Honey Meadow Estate in Chulmleigh, North Devon offers weddings, events and glamping opportunities. It’s home to a cluster of courtyard cottages sleeping between two to 15 guests plus belle tents, shepherd’s huts, a safari lodge and a gypsy caravan (which is new for weddings this year) all perched in their own meadow with wood-fired baths, firepits, barbecue, compost toilets, wood-fired ovens and more. Guests are welcome to use the on-site tennis courts, croquet lawn and trampoline.

Also new for 2023 is a horse box bar and a wedding banqueting barn. Indoor celebrations can be held here with the smallest wedding that the team has accommodated being for a group of seven guests. For intimate affairs, outdoor canapés followed by dinner in the library offers a wonderful, romantic setting.

Outdoor weddings are also an option (weather permitting) which couples can style as they wish, they can even grow their own flowers which not only adds a personal touch but is a budget-friendly option too.

Book it: 01769 520 296, www.honeymeadowretreat.co.uk; www.facebook.com/honeymeadowretreat; www.instagram.com/honeymeadowretreat

Looking to create a pop-up glamping village at your wedding to provide magical and memorable accommodation for your guests? Then check out Ysella, a luxury, eco-conscious camping and glamping hire company offering beautiful bell tents and yurts delivered to the venue of your choice in Cornwall, pitched and furnished to expand on the range of accommodation options available for wedding guests. It allows all of your guests to stay on-site, bringing them closer to your celebrations!

Book it: 07874 069 832, www.ysellacornwall.co.uk/bell-tent-event-hire; www.facebook.com/glampingstagnes; www.instagram.com/ysellaglampingcornwall

Wedding Photographer Cornwall

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Above the Bay Wedding Events is a new accessible, eco-friendly building situated on the 18-hole Falmouth Golf Club course set in acres of grounds surrounded by coastal views. It provides a stylish blank canvas for weddings with a contemporary, beachy feel and ceremonies take place in the elegant End function room while the wedding breakfast is enjoyed in the restaurant with smaller areas also available for intimate affairs. The balcony offers an al fresco option against the backdrop of stunning sea views.

Book it: 01326 314 296, https://abovethebay.co.uk; www.facebook.com/abovethebayweddingevents; www.instagram.com/abovethebay_

Roswarne is a weekend venue that’s available to hire for weddings, holidays and celebrations set in six acres of grounds at Holman Park in Cornwall. The historic house has been lovingly reinstated to it’s former glory by owners Elizabeth and Reg over the past ten years and is now home to beautiful rooms furnished in authentic Regency style.

The luxurious function areas inside this magical manor provide modern amenities. Parties of between 10 and 50 guests can enjoy dining in the south-facing Orangery with its fabulous terrazzo floor which benefits from sunlight flooding through the nine sash windows. Ceremonies can be held in the Grand Marble Hall with its oval-shaped staircase and fireplace or in the south-facing Drawing Room where full-length French doors open to reveal the rose garden. A secret pathway leads guests through the rose garden, home to many colourful varieties plus an arbour surrounded by camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons. Grandest of all is the centrepiece ancient magnolia on the upper lawn which makes an incredible photographic backdrop during the early spring along with the abundant carpet of bluebells.

The Ballroom, with its impressive chandeliers is a versatile space that’s ideal for a ceremony and also well suited for evening entertainment. Entering from the Grand Marble Hall, the Ballroom is large enough to seat fifty guests for a smaller wedding, or host up to 100 people for dancing. It’s equipped with a bar and kitchen and a secret door leads to the decadent Library that’s furnished with plush red velvet furnishings. Wedding parties may bring their own suppliers, or these can be organised with the team at the venue. Hired by the day or weekend, in full or in part, flexibility is considered the key to a perfect wedding at Roswarne and generous accommodation is offered in the stylish new Fern Court apartment located on the ground floor sleeping four guests plus there’s further accommodation on the ground floor, and three apartments on the first floor sleeping up to 20 guests. A hidden doorway leads from the Orangery to the Loft Apartment via a French spiral staircase. This houses a living area, shower room with WC and a hideaway bedroom with original rafters and a lookout platform.

Book it: 07771 518 869, www.roswarne.co.uk; www.facebook.com/holmanpark.co.uk; www.instagram.com/roswarne.venue

Boconnoc is an 18th-century manor house and cottages set in the private historic grounds of a country estate that’s available to hire for weddings, holidays, retreats and events in Lostwithiel, Cornwall. There’s no access to the public, other than for planned events.

Hidden in a serene valley at the heart of the Boconnoc Estate is the wildly romantic Stewardry, an elegant and luxurious 18thcentury manor house for up to 14 guests to stay in a choice of seven beautifully renovated bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms all with their own distinct character and exquisite interiors inspired by the gardens.

The venue offers something special for a civil or humanist ceremony. The Stable Yard, Dorothy Garden and the Bath House provide special backdrops and within the house, the Garden Room offers exquisite views of the Cornish countryside during all seasons.

At this venue, we love:

 The tennis court within the grounds

 The walking routes on the estate through the Deer Park, around the lake and gardens

 That dogs are welcome (downstairs only)

 The Weber barbecue and outdoor furniture for summer dining

 The Sawmill outdoor kitchen area

 The orchard allowing for apple picking in the autumn

 The games room in the Stable Yard

 Warming open fires perfect for the colder months

 Fresh produce available from the kitchen garden

 The in-house chef and regular housekeeping available at an additional rate

Book it: 01208 872 507, www.boconnoc.com/weddings-cornwall/intimate-weddings; www.facebook.com/Boconnocestate; www.instagram.com/boconnocestate

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Perched on the gently sloping cliffs above Falmouth Bay, our wonderful venue offers a relaxed space for you to gather your favourite people for a full day of unforgettable wedding celebrations.

On sunny days, toast to your ‘just married’ status with a chilled glass of bubbly as you take in the panoramic sea views from our sun-soaked terrace.

Why choose us?

• Modern, sea view ceremony space

• Ceremony space seats up to 80 people

• Panoramic views over Falmouth Bay from our grounds, venue and terrace

• Access to breath-taking sea views for picture perfect photography

• Direct access to sea view balcony

• Gather around 100 guests for a sit-down meal, and up to 180 for your evening bash

• Our experienced Wedding Coordinator will be on hand to ensure you plan and enjoy your perfect day

• A mouth-watering selection of menus, or speak us about a bespoke offering

• A fully stocked bar featuring local ales, gins, wines and soft drinks

• Private use of our Bridal Suite for getting ceremony-ready

• All year-round venue – our prices change seasonally Contact our Wedding and Events Coordinator, Megan, on events@abovethebay.co.uk to start planning your big day.

@abovethebayweddingevents

abovethebayweddingevents

www.abovethebay.co.uk Above

Rain or Shine

Rain or Shine

Bespoke ceremony and reception for up to 220 guests – barn wedding in Tredudwell Pavillion

Bespoke ceremony and reception for up to 220 guests – barn wedding in Tredudwell Pavillion

Small and intimate ceremony and reception in authentically restored Manor house Outdoor ceremony temples and natural amphitheatre for up to 250 guests

Small and intimate ceremony and reception in authentically restored Manor house Outdoor ceremony temples and natural amphitheatre for up to 250 guests

Lanteglos by Fowey, Cornwall PL23 1 NJ | 01726

Lanteglos by Fowey, Cornwall PL23 1 NJ | 01726

www.tredudwell.co.uk

www.tredudwell.co.uk

Photo: Dan Ward Photography

Photo: Dan Ward Photography

Pengersick Castle in Penzance, Cornwall is a magical setting steeped in history and home to original beamed ceilings, ornately carved fireplaces and a fine Tudor stone spiral staircase, ideal for photographs. Another Insta-worthy backdrop is the main entrance with its arched doorway with a built-in drop slot.

The Grade I-listed castle is perfect for intimate affairs of up to 38 guests plus the couple. There are several licensed areas for ceremonies including the Gun Room where private dining can also be enjoyed. There’s also the Treasury, the Solar room that enjoys views across the manicured grounds and the Drawing Room with its log fireplace perfect for cosy winter weddings. The Pleasure Garden can be used for an outdoor ceremony during the warmer months when the raised flower beds are brimming with roses and other seasonal blooms and the Medieval Bower tucked is an outdoor ceremony option.

Pengersick Castle has teamed up with BoHo Cornwall to host elopement weddings as part of the new Just for 2 package where a candlelit ceremony can be enjoyed in the castle’s Solar room accessed via an ancient stone staircase illuminated by candlelight.

There’s a bedroom located at the top of the tower with windows on all sides furnished with an impressive four-poster Tudor bed that’s ideal for newlyweds. Exclusive overnight stays are available for wedding couples.

Book it: 01736 763 973, www.pengersickcastle.com; www.facebook.com/PengersickCastle; www.instagram.com/pengersick_castle

At The Driftwood Spas located in Trevaunance Cove, Cornwall, the team believe that every wedding or civil partnership is as individual as those taking part. Whether that means an elopement-style ceremony with just the couple, their dog and the stunning Cliffside Garden as the backdrop, or a family gathering in the spacious sea-view dining room, the venue offers a bespoke wedding package for a relaxed Cornish celebration overlooking the ocean for nuptials of all shapes and sizes.

Ceremonies can be held overlooking the beautiful Trevaunance Cove, followed by drinks and canapés in the Cliffside Garden. Meanwhile, the rustic-inspired Wheel Room is ideal for smaller gatherings, or as a backup to the garden in case of rain. The stunning dining room can accommodate loved ones for the ceremony, dinner and after party, and the Fishing Loft Bar provides a cozy and atmospheric space in all seasons. Plus, there are 15 stylish bedrooms for guests to stay on-site.

The Petite Package which can be just the couple, or up to 14 guests includes, but is not limited to:

 The ceremony held in the Wheel Room or outside in the Cliffside Garden

 Two witnesses for the marriage (if required)

 A reception drink per person

 A delicious three-course set meal in the Top Bar, Wheel Room or Main Bar

 A bottle of house wine to share

 Two 200ml toasting bottles of prosecco

 Chair covers with a sash colour of the couple’s choice

 A two-night stay for the newlyweds

Book it: 01872 552428, https://driftwoodspars.co.uk/events/wedding-receptions-and-ceremonies; www.facebook.com/DriftyWeddings; www.instagram.com/driftwoodsparsweddings

Ta Mill is a secluded romantic hideaway perched on the edge of the rugged Bodmin Moor providing intimate wedding and elopement celebrations. Their Elopement for 2 package includes a two or threenight mid-week or weekend stay in one of the four-star luxury cottages plus complimentary use of the on-site hot tub, a bottle of champagne, a bridal bouquet two witnesses for the ceremony. After the ceremony, couples can indulge in a delicious three-course dinner cooked in their accommodation by the private chef or enjoy a luxury hamper.

Couples can surround themselves with their nearest and dearest ensuring that precious memories are made in a choice of indoor or outdoor wedding ceremony locations followed by a drinks reception with canapés, a two-course dinner prepared by a personal chef, or a luxury buffet.

For those wishing to invite a few more people to join in, a mini wedding package is available. Book a two or three-night stay in one of the cottages, enjoy a ceremony in an indoor or outdoor location and afterwards, have canapés and a drinks reception in the pretty gardens or in the comfort of the main house.

Book it: 01752 371 507, www.petiteweddings.co.uk/ta-mill-weddings; www.facebook.com/petitewedding; www.instagram.com/petiteweddingsuk

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Millbrook Estate located in the stunning North Devon countryside is the perfect elopement wedding venue for couples searching for an intimate and romantic celebration. Immersed in 32 acres of nature, from lakes, to wildflower meadows and mature woodland, it’s easy to see why elopements are so special here – the friendly animals will ensure you have plenty of photo opportunities!

The Summer House provides a wonderful setting for elopements for couples and up to four guests who can take advantage of the luxury accommodation on-site. The team pride themselves on their celebrity customer service and commitment to making sure each elopement is as special and unique as possible – turn to page nine to read more.

Book it: 01769 561 900, www.millbrookestate.co.uk; www.facebook.com/millbrookestate; www.instagram.com/millbrookestate

SAYING ‘I DO’

https://oliverharrisphotography.com

www.alexapoppeweddingphotography.com

Sabine Smith is the award-winning celebrant behind Perfect Day Ceremonies creating unique elopements and beach ceremonies throughout Cornwall and Devon who tells us, “there’s nothing more romantic and couple-focused than an intimate wedding celebration, such as an elopement. Micro weddings and elopements are the ideal choice to celebrate the start of the rest of your life together.”

Sabine adds, “This fuss and stress-free way to say ‘I do’ enables couples to create a personal and magical ceremony in surroundings of their choice. For some couples, it’s important to celebrate their love for themselves first and foremost, before they might celebrate with family and friends.”

An elopement is an alternative to the traditional larger ceremony which can set couples back financially and it might not even be what they want for their big day – trying to please family members instead of themselves.

Celebrant Sara Price who is based in Helston, Cornwall offers an Elopement and Micro Wedding package. She tells us, “I adore small, intimate ceremonies because there’s something so special about them, a different kind of special to any other kind of wedding ceremony. I love seeing the smiles, and sometimes tears as well as the wonderful locations they have chosen.”

She adds, “there are many reasons why a couple would choose an elopement or small wedding, but whatever that reason is, their ceremony and their day is even more about the two of them. I send them a special series of questionnaires so I can get to know them first and understand the best way of writing their ceremony. We’ll then meet so they can give me their thoughts and ideas, and by the time their special day arrives, they’ll feel

Tree Top Escape is home to The Nest, an intimate wedding venue perched amongst the trees in the rolling Devonshire hills in High Bickington. This magical, quirky wedding venue boasting floor-toceiling views, a tranquil yet stylish space and a stunning adjoining Tree House is the perfect place for couples looking to enjoy an elopement celebration shared only with witnesses. The Ceremony Only wedding packages offers couples the chance to experience the magic of Tree Top Escape without a stay in the accommodation.

Alternatively, up to 14 guests can be invited to share in the fairytale at this rural countryside venue. Following the ceremony, enjoy a celebratory toast before heading over to the cosy Meadow Room to let the festivities begin before staying the night in the Tree House with your guests staying in the luxury accommodation available.

Book it: 01769 629069, www.treetopescape.co.uk/intimate-wedding-venue.php; www.facebook.com/treehousedevon; www.instagram.com/treetopescape

Small wedding gatherings between 14 and 20 guests is often referred to as a micro wedding and have become a popular choice for couples.

Sabine tells us, “A celebrant-led elopement or micro wedding can take place indoors or outdoors and a celebrant like myself can help with personalised vows and promises.” She adds, “Some couples like to choose symbolic gestures like a ring exchange, hand tying, lighting a unity candle or planting a tree that reflect their personalities and adds a personal touch. This type of ceremony is 100% bespoke but should not be confused with the legally binding civil ceremony which takes place in the registry office.

Book Sabine: 07977 561 450, www.perfectdayceremonies.co.uk; www.facebook.com/perfectdayceremonies.co.uk; www.instagram.com/perfectdayceremonies

as though they are in good hands with a wonderful friend.”

Book Sara: www.sarapricecelebrant.co.uk/weddingceremonies; www.facebook.com/sarapricecelebrant; www.instagram.com/sarapricecelebrant

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We

LuxuryPetite Countryside Weddings

Lewis working his magic at the real wedding of Jeannette and David. Turn to page 33 to read all about it!

Get your PARTY STARTED

Fun ways to entertain your wedding guests

Award-winning wedding magician Lewis Belcher is the talent behind LB MAGIC UK and is guaranteed to kick-start the wedding entertainment! He tells us, “Booking a wedding magician is a great way to add an element of surprise and keep guests entertained while they wait for the photography session to finish. Not only will a good wedding magician help break the ice with guests, but they can also make the wedding photographs appear more fun. A wedding magician can provide close-up magic, card tricks or mind-reading illusions that can

help create a fun atmosphere of anticipation and excitement.”

Lewis adds, “With my witty banter and impressive magic, I’ll make sure that everybody enjoys themselves and help create a memorable experience for all involved.”

Book Lewis: 01752 936 086, www.lbmagic.uk; www.facebook.com/lbmagicuk

Mini Golf 2U offers a new way to entertain guests at weddings with courses available to hire. Packages include the hire of up to 18 holes of Mini Golf 2U courses that can be laid out indoors or outside.

Book it: 01271 316 740, https://minigolf2u.co.uk; www.facebook.com/NorthDevonMiniGolf2U; www.instagram.com/minigolf2usw

Devon Pro Entertainment offering professional wedding DJ services across Devon has just launched their Silent Disco hire service for weddings this year that includes a stand and neon sign and guarantees a laugh a minute!

Book it: 07946 242 742, https://devonproentertainments.co.uk; www.facebook.com/devonproentertainments

The team at Inspired Party have more than nine years of experience entertaining at weddings. They are recommended by many of North Devon’s top venues. The winning combination of DJ Matt, who never fails to get the party started with his track choices and mixing skills, along with the styled setups and Lianne on the customer service side make quite the team! They communicate with each couple before their wedding to ensure the perfect party night. Inspired Party offers an all-inclusive package including:

 Professional DJ Matt between 7 pm and midnight, which can be extended, providing an outstanding set directly tailored to each couple’s preferences including RnB, house, garage, motown, disco, pop, electro swing, drum ‘n bass, rock, northern soul and reggae music plus classics throughout the decades, as well as current hits

 A choice of feature set-ups that can be customised to suit themes, from fairytale and rustic to vintage-inspired, a beach theme, shabby chic or even a festival vibe

 Personal face-to-face consultation

 LED mood lighting in a colour of the couple’s choice

 A fully personalised playlist and control over the announcements

 Music request cards for your guests

 First dance track editing

 Personalised Gobo light with a custom design to be used as a backdrop light or placed on the dancefloor

 Early set-up of equipment before the guests arrive

 Microphones available for speeches and announcements

 Pictures are taken on the night and added to the Inspired Party wedding blog, downloadable for free.

 Discounted candy cart service (available to all of our couples)

 Discounted giant LOVE letters and styling items

Book it: 07502 427 850, www.inspiredparty.co.uk; www.facebook.com/inspiredparty1; www.instagram.com/inspiredpartydj

HOT TOPIC

Our experts offer big-day advice

SWEET TOOTH

We would like to surprise our guests with something different to a traditional wedding cake, what do you suggest?

Meet the experts: Bronwen Dabner and Alex Grover are the cofounders of STACC based in Ilfracombe, North Devon creating high-end cakes, patisserie and coffee made using fresh local ingredients.

At STACC, we make a wide range of cakes and bakes that we can offer couples for their day. We recently made a dessert table with mini

LOVE BIRDS

What are the benefits of booking a celebrant?

Meet the expert: Fiona Solomon is an experienced celebrant delivering all types of ceremonies in Cornwall.

It’s amazing how many times I am asked the question ‘what does a celebrant do’ and it makes me realise that we need to help couples to understand the options for their wedding day. I believe that life is all about choice but many people are not aware that they can choose to have a celebrant-led wedding, completing the legal paperwork at another time. Below is a definition of the options open to couples:

 A minister of religion in a church - this may be the right choice for you and includes the legal registration of your marriage.

 A registrar wedding in council offices - this is often referred to as a 2+2 because you repeat short legal wording with two witnesses and sign the marriage register. You are then officially married and this is usually only available Monday to Thursday with the fee ranging from £60 to £95 depending on the location.

 A registrar-conducted ceremony at your chosen venue (if it has a wedding licence). With this option, usually you won’t have met the registrar who attends and they may be conducting several ceremonies that day at set times. As above, you’ll repeat the legal declaratory wording and sign the marriage register. You are now officially married and it will cost from £455 - £708 (in Cornwall).

 A wedding ceremony led by an independent celebrant – that’s me! Everything I do is about getting to know you as a couple and helping you to pick what you would like to include in your ceremony. There’ll be plenty of love and laughter and you can also choose to have your ceremony on any day at any time, for example, a Sunday afternoon, and to hold it anywhere you like (within reason). What about your favourite beach or your gran’s garden? The venue does not have to be licensed. You might like to also consider:

 Warming your rings with love before the ceremony

 Including family or friends in the ceremony

 Having personal readings or poetry

 Lighting a memory candle for somebody who can’t be with you

 Having a hand-tying ceremony with bespoke ribbons - possibly with family or friends joining in

 A family sand ceremony if you now have a blended family

tarts, choux buns and other sweet goods in place of a traditional cake which went down amazingly well. Some of our most popular products are the lemon and raspberry tarts with pipped meringue on top and our chocolate extravaganza made from chocolate roulade, baileys ganache, hazelnut dacquoise and caramel crémeux, dipped in a milk choc shell with hazelnuts with cocoa nibs. We can also provide doughnuts, macarons and desserts and are willing to try out new ideas.

01271 267 780, www.staccbakes.com; www.instagram.com/staccbakes

to celebrate

 Writing secret vows to share (I can help!)

 Planting a tree together to take home with you for your patio or garden

This is only a snapshot of the types of symbolic gestures that you can choose within a celebrant-led ceremony. Together, we can explore what is right for you and, as we get to know each other, you know that you can trust me on the day to look after you both – and any nerves you might encounter.

I have the best job in the world and I love driving away after a ceremony knowing it was perfect for the couple.

* At this time, a celebrant cannot legally marry you. However, the Government is reviewing the marriage law and we hope that things will change in the future. If you would like to know a little bit more about this, you can check out this website: https://gccmovement.org

07527 081 872, www.fionasolomoncelebrant.com; www.facebook.com/people/Fiona-SolomonCelebrant/100063616711777

AISLE STYLE

Meet the expert: Kimberley Speed is the owner of Bridal Reloved located in Barnstaple, Devon. It’s part of a chain of award-winning bridal boutiques specialising in selling samples and also pre-owned, high-end designer wedding dresses.

At Bridal Reloved in Barnstaple, we’re THE boutique to visit, having previously been winners of awards including for Best Bridal Boutique, Best Bridal Wear, Best Customer Services, Best Social Media, Best Newcomer, Contribution to the Wedding Industry and Entrepreneurs of the Year. We sell mostly off-the-peg dresses and some of my favourites include these stunning designs, from sparkly gowns to something blue being the new pink. Splashes of other colours are popular as are mini bridal dresses! The wedding trends for 2023 echo those of the 1980s and 90s and when it comes to the fine finishing touches, my favourite has to be our scatter pearl veils and those embroidered with flowers.

01271 375 877, https://bridalreloved.co.uk; www.facebook.com/bridalreloved; www.instagram.com/bridalreloved; https://twitter.com/bridalreloved

SUITS YOU, SIR

Where should we shop for some seriously stylish groom’s wear?

Meet the expert: Claire Ridley is the editor of Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding and the fashion editor across all of the County Wedding Magazine titles.

Daws Clothing Company located inside the Affinity Devon Outlet Shopping Centre in Bideford is owned and operated by staff with more than 50 years of experience. The menswear shopping destination offers a range of suits and smart and casual menswear. From blazers, waistcoats and trousers to formal shirts and tie and pocket square sets, there’s something to suit everyone. If you’re looking to hire your wedding suits then it also offers formal suit hire.

01237 472 283, https://dawsclothing.co.uk; www.facebook.com/dawsclothingco

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Editor loves

Fall head over heels in love with the latest pieces from London-based jewellers Augustine Jewels featuring exquisite, carefully created and ethically sourced diamonds and gemstones.

To shop, visit www.augustinejewels.com

FASHION

Fashion editor Claire Ridley

WATCH OUT

Get to the wedding on time wearing this stylish, timeless yellow-gold watch, £240, Herbelin at www.watchpilot.com

Hero buys

This pretty matching brief, £60, are from the new sustainable lingerie

THE BEE’S KNEES

Eco-conscious jewellery brand Wild Fawn has collaborated with the Bee Friendly Trust and planet-friendly beauty brand Burt’s Bees to produce this limited-edition sterling silver charm necklace, £96, featuring a honeybee inside a traditional skep beehive. It’s the perfect thank-you gift for bridesmaids and 10% of sales will be donated to the Bee Friendly Trust.

To shop, visit www.wildfawnjewellery.com

focus

THE ULTIMATE EDIT

The new 2023 Bridesmaid Collection from Little Mistress has launched revealing long, flowing maxi dresses (as seen above) and shorter tea-length styles in blush, mint green and navy as well as vibrant yellow and orange. Prices start from £68 to £115.

To shop, visit www.little-mistress.com

Petal power

This pink 3D floral strapless skater dress, £89.99, is from the new QUIZ occasion wear collection that’s perfect for bridesmaids and guests at weddings this summer. The romantic colour palette adorns the soft and elegant silhouettes, from fashionable floor-sweeping satin gowns to floral minis. The styles are guaranteed to turn heads!

To shop, visit www.quizclothing.co.uk

Frill seekers

This season’s bridal dresses enjoy tiers of ruffled tulle, silky satin layers and subtle pleats

www.pronovias.com

The Fox & Hounds Country Hotel are experts at arranging your wedding having been the very proud winner of the award for the Best Wedding Venue in the South West 3 times and runner up twice over the last 8 years. Several indoor and outdoor areas of our venue are licensed for civil weddings including one of the prettiest rooms in the South West and our amazing Treehouse. Our 6 acres of beautiful grounds which include two lakes and sit on the banks of the River Taw are the perfect backdrop for amazing wedding pictures. Eggesford,

The Perfect Venue for your Wedding in Devon

17 years experience in hair 6 years in make-up.

My name is Valentina. I take pride in what I do, my job is my hobby and also my passion so it comes quite easy for me. I will make sure you look and feel your best on your special day, together with your bridal party without any worries. I have professional and at the same time personal touch to everything I do so you will feel at ease on your special day.

Based in Newquay, covering Cornwall and Devon.

@hairandmakeupbyvalentina

www.vweddings.co.uk

Contact: 07825 686852

Email: Vweddings@outlook.com

In love with lace

This timeless fabric never goes out of fashion

Style no CWG956 by Oleg Cassini at www.davidsbridal.com

Philophile by www.hermionedepaula.com

Augusta dress by www.alanhannah.co.uk

Sephora skirt with Autumn top (left) and Marianna gown (right) by www.annageorgina.co.za

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

Teria by www.lunanovias.com

Josette bridal dress with pearl flower veil and Amelia flowergirl dress by www.monsoon.co.uk/wedding-occasion/the-bride

Delaina by www.azazie.com

Lacey dress by www.temperleylondon.com

Cairo dress by www.truebride.co.uk

Mia by www.josephinescott.co.uk

Sandals with over-sized bow, £310, https://charlottemills.com

Pale pink clutch bag, £99, www.hobbs.com

Ivory satin sandals with crystal and pearl ankle strap, £195, www.dunelondon.com

Head

Ivory clutch bag, £79, www.rainbowclub.co.uk

OVER HEELS

Walk down the aisle in style this season with fashion editor Claire’s hand-picked edit of the best bridal shoes and bags

Ivory sandals with a pearl heel, £695, https://freyarose.com

Silver strappy sandals, £435, www.rosamundmuir.com

White feather bag, to hire from £40, Potens Femina at www.dcey.co.uk

Sandals with over-sized bows, from a selection, www.jimmychoo.com

Ivory occasion bag, £95, www.dunelondon.com

White leather handbag, £295, www.russellandbromley.co.uk

Jewelled sandals, £55, www.next.co.uk

Pearl-encrusted clutch bag, £165, https://charlottemills.com

Blush suede shoes with a glitter heel, £159, Sole Bliss

‘Bride’ pouch, £19.99, Katie Loxton

BOOST YOUR SKIN FROM WITHIN

Raising the bar, St.Tropez’s new Self Tan Luxe Body Serum infused with a unique collagen-enhancing complex, responds to consumer demand for a hydrating, longer-lasting natural glow with skincare benefits. It works to firm, smooth, soothe, reduce redness and even skin tone while instantly hydrating skin in the most easy-to-use format yet. What’s more, it’s infused with the iconic St.Tropez Luxe scent, a fine fragrance with Tritech Olfactory Fragrance Technology, which equals no biscuity smell.

Having learned of its zero transfer attribute I asked Michaella Bolder, St.Tropez tanning and skincare expert, whether she’d recommend this particular product to brides, and if so when would be the best time to apply. She told me, “Yes, it’s a beautiful tan for brides. However, I’d always recommend to apply tan the day before. This way, you can be prepped and make sure you apply evenly without any worries or concerns on the morning of your wedding. It is zero transfer but as the tan starts to take, you want to make sure you’re super-confident, as it comes through over four to eight hours. So, always apply the day, evening or 24 hours before your big day. It leaves you with a beautiful rich, medium glow and with the skin being so hydrated it just beams.”

£35, available at Boots, Superdrug, Look Fantastic, ASOS, Amazon and all leading online retailers.

DAWN ‘TIL DUSK

Left with a hole in my life when my previous primer ran out I was bereft. Until Milk’s Pore Eclipse Mattifying Primer landed on my desk that is. This lightweight water cream makeup primer with skincare benefits claims to blur pores and control shine for a long-lasting soft matte finish, and I can confirm it does just that. It feels fantastic to apply and leaves skin feeling satin smooth. After a long day visiting London recently my foundation looked as good when I arrived home as it did when I left. What’s more, it’s 90 per cent natural, clean, vegan, cruelty-free, noncomedogenic, paraben-free, and silicone-free. I’ve found a new favourite! £31, www.cultbeauty.co.uk

GOLDEN GODDESS

Leading Irish make-up giant BPerfect Cosmetics is a celebrity and influencer-loved brand with a difference. Expanding into stores across the UK later this year, BPerfect has partnered with Love Island 2022 winner, Ekin Su Cülcüloğlu to launch a range of innovative new products.

Ekin Su wore BPerfect in the Love Island villa and has now shared her secret weapons in recreating her iconic golden goddess look. Launching with four luxurious products – the Fearless Face & Eye Palette (£29.95), the Radiant Glow Luxurious Skin Enhancer (£16.95), the Luxury Half Lash Set (£16.95) and the Mini Empress Base & Body Brush (£9.95), they’re set to become make-up bag staples. Check out www.bperfectcosmetics.com

BUZZBeauty

Beauty editor Kelly Andrews brings you the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be

GET THE LOOK

World-class make-up artist Robert Welsh is one of social media’s stand-out creators, posting impressive make-up tutorials and refreshingly honest reviews, which have earned him a loyal following of millions. Now, you can create your own versions of Robert’s signature looks with his new Curated By edit from Ciaté London. The kit includes the Chocolate Trend Palette, Dewy Stix Highlight, Velvet Cloud Lip Shadow in Heavenly, Extraordinary Translucent Powder and Wonderwand Mascara.

The five-piece edit, £35, is available exclusively at www.ciatelondon.com. Follow along with Robert’s tutorial to get the look at https://www.instagram.com/p/CoFlTx6jjDb

OH-SO NATURAL

Founded in 1996, Ringana is a pioneering Austrian skincare company creating products so fresh it’s recommended they’re used within 10 weeks of opening. As well as using fantastic vegan formulations, the products also feature some of 2023’s most sought after active ingredients. I love the Tinted Moisturiser from the brand’s FRESH range, containing squalane. This olive-oil based ingredient is becoming increasingly popular because it helps to reconstitute our hydrolipidic film and is easily absorbed without leaving an oily residue behind. It works to strengthen the skin’s barrier and maintain hydration too. As a result, this gorgeous moisturiser creates a radiant, perfectly even complexion. Plus, the product covers the skin in a delicate tint, thanks to mineral pigments that adapt beautifully to its tone erasing small defects, redness and pigmentation spots. £40.80 (€46,90), www.ringana.com

ENCOUNTER THE ELEMENTS

This year sees perfume house Issey Miyake present two new fragrances: L’Eau d’Issey Pivonie (£68, 50ml) and L’Eau d’Issey pour Homme Vétiver (£59, 50ml). The two launches celebrate nature in all its beauty, starting with water, of course, but also ushering in lush, vibrant florals and the intensity of vetiver.

L’Eau d’Issey Pivoine is 87 per cent made up of ingredients of natural origin, while this proportion for L’Eau d’Issey pour Home Vétiver is even higher at 93 per cent. These ingredients are exclusively sourced in a manner that respects the principles of fair trade and are responsibly harvested.

The perfect duo for the perfect duo! Available exclusively at The Perfume Shop from 26th March, 2023.

IN NEED OF A BOOST?

Green mandarin essential oil is packed with antioxidants and is known for its rejuvenating and brightening properties. It leaves dull skin looking luminous and radiant, perfect for reviving your complexion and bringing a gorgeous glow to it. That’s why the clever folk at Decléor have harnessed its power to create its Green Mandarin Glowing Collection.

TRIED & TESTED

Having keenly followed celebs’ ravings about Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream on social media, excitement levels at CWM HQ were high when a tub arrived in the office. Editor Olivia Gibson stepped up to try it, here’s what she had to say:

“This cream smells unbelievable and absorbs quickly, leaving behind beautifully hydrated skin, and after the first use I noticed a smooth and refreshed feeling. Fast-forward a few weeks and my skin now appears firmer and tighter too.

This award-winning product is free from parabens, soy, artificial colours, phthalates, sulphates and mineral oils – it’s suitable for vegans and is crueltyfree too. With skin-loving ingredients including guaraná, cupuaçu butter, coconut oil, açaí oil, Brazil nut and more – this cream is the ultimate body skincare product.” Find it at www.lookfantastic.com, £20

SHINE BRIGHT

I’ve fallen in particular for the Green Mandarin Aromaplastie Glow Booster Mask, which is designed to boost radiance and revitalise the complexion. A potent treatment that brightens and energises dull and tired-looking skin, offers the ideal pre-wedding boost. £37, www.facethefuture.co.uk

LUSCIOUS LASHES

LEGIT Lashes is Huda

Kattan’s debut mascara that’s been more than four years in the making. It features not one, but two full-size mascaras in one product. An innovative combo, it’s the ultimate multitasker helping to achieve the three pillars of luscious lashes – volume, length, and curl – in seconds. Each wand works effortlessly to give you the lashes you’re after, with both ends loaded with Huda’s signature extra black, Black-2 Liquid pigment. £24, https://hudabeauty.com

eSalon’s Silk Shine (£17) is a nourishing argan oil treatment that increases shine, strengthens hair and protects colour. Just a few small pumps (or one if you have short hair like me) gives hair an instantly radiant shine, while hydrating dry-to-the-touch ends and safeguarding against colour fade. It’s done wonders for the condition of my hair and a little does indeed go a long way.

eSalon is reinventing the way we colour our hair by creating a fully-customised professional-grade home hair colour that’s made to order and shipped directly to the door. Find out more at www.esalon.co.uk

Q&A Beauty

Our experts answer your questions

BEAUTY FILE

How can I get my skin in top condition for my wedding day?

Meet the expert: Clodagh McOnie is a Newquay-based professional eyelash and eyebrow technician. She’s also a professional make-up artist.

Clodagh says: To make the lead-up to your wedding as stress-free and relaxing as possible, I have a few top skincare tips:

 Drink plenty of water every day which is key for strong hair and nails as well as glowing skin. Your make-up will apply, and appear flawless when your skin is hydrated and plump.

 Sleeping with a silk pillowcase has so many benefits including wrinkle prevention and skin hydration and it’s great for your hair too.

 Always exfoliate and apply your moisturiser 24 hours before your wedding day to ensure that your body is free from dead skin and has a fresh layer to apply make-up and fake tan too.

Happy wedding prep!

Lash n Glow, 07503 219 052, www.lashnglow.co.uk, www.instagram.com/lashngloww

ALL MADE UP

How do I decide on my make-up look for my daughter’s wedding?

Meet the expert: Martine Rodda is the director of DeModa, an organic and sustainable hair and beauty salon based in Redruth, Cornwall.

Martine says: To decide upon their own make-up for their daughter’s big day, mothers-of-the-bride should consider the following points:

 Do I wear make-up daily?

 What colour is my outfit?

 What is my eye colour?

 Should I choose a professional make-up artist or apply it myself?

 Do I need to look different to my usual self?

 Should I follow the trends for this season?

 Strong lips or strong eyes, or both?

 Red lips or neutral?

Do you wear make-up all of the time, or only for occasions, or perhaps not at all? It’s important to inform your make-up artist how much you want to wear, and by that I mean, do you want a light, barely-there look, a natural daytime style or a heavily made-up eye or a strong lip?

Look at magazines and visit beauty counters to get a feel for the colour trends. Ask your make-up artist to replicate looks you love but understand that magazine images are often airbrushed, edited, or applied on young models with youthful skin. For this reason, it’s always best to consult with your artist to discuss what look will suit you based on your features.

A common mistake I see when clients show me a picture of the make-up they like is that they think it’s a light make-up look when in fact it’s a heavy style for a night out and they soon get nervous as I’m applying the eyeshadow, eyeliner or mascara. Compare natural looks with heavy evening make-up and you’ll see what the differences are.

If you’re somebody who never wears make-up then I would opt for a ‘no make-up, make-up look’ which will help to balance your face and will benefit the photographs and tie everything together. Although you don’t usually wear make-up, you equally don’t usually wear bridal attire, and are not usually photographed so much, so it is, for this reason, that I would recommend a very natural barely-there look for your daughter’s special day.

Applying a BB cream is a great way to even out the skin tone, and a good quality water-based liquid foundation covers up small blemishes and redness, yet still allows the skin to shine through. Book yourself in for a lash lift and tint to open up your eyes and add a little definition. Alternatively, apply a pop of waterproof mascara, which always helps in case of any happy tears! Add a sweep of blusher or bronzer and a dab of hydrating natural lip colour which can make a difference to how your make-up shows up in the big-day photographs.

I would advise you to visit a make-up artist or a beauty counter and ask for a make-up session or a trial with them. If you usually wear make-up, go in with it on, or take photographs along so that your artist can see how you like to look and advise you on improving that look for the big day. Inform them of the colour of your outfit so that they can use an eye shadow or lipstick to compliment, contrast or naturalise your overall look. Ensure that you have one or two trials. A professional make-up artist will also take care of your eyebrows and trim or pluck them if there are any obvious strays. I would advise having your eyebrows professionally treated at a beauty salon before the big day, to avoid any redness occurring. They may also offer you some temporary lashes to enhance your eyes, for example, individual cluster lashes, or strip lashes. You could choose to have professional lashes added before the big day so there isn’t a need for mascara. They can look natural or heavier, depending on the look you’re used to.

DeModa, 01209 843 446, www.demodaprofessionalhairdressing.co.uk, www.instagram.com/demoda_salon

Turn to page 40 to see the real wedding of Martine’s daughter Shannon.

BAN THE BLOAT

Professional nutritionists Wedding Wellness explain how to avoid untimely bloating on your wedding day

Oneof the most common digestive complaints is bloating, an uncomfortable, sometimes heavy sensation that can follow after eating a meal that for some, also results in feeling tired, unable to concentrate and having a physically noticeable bloated tummy. Not symptoms you want to endure on any day, let alone on one as special as your wedding.

There are many possible causes of bloating, some of which come with additional digestive complaints such as pain, constipation and flatulence – usually an indication of poor gut health. These symptoms are usually referred to as IBS by doctors, but may also be the result of intolerances, allergies or other gut disease. There are however some simple, everyday things you can consider to help reduce that after-meal bloat. County Wedding Magazines’ beauty and wellness editor, Kelly Andrews, chatted to Minal Sudra and Elizabeth Andrews from Wedding Wellness to find out more.

CHEW PROPERLY

Most of us chow down through conversation, mid emails or in front of the telly without giving much thought to chewing our food. But, there are enzymes in the mouth that kick start digestion and if you haven’t allowed enough time for them to work in the mouth, it can make life more difficult for the rest of the gut to properly break down food, leading to irritation and bloating. Aim to chew each bite 20 to 30

times to allow the gut to digest with ease.

EAT AWAY FROM DISTRACTIONS

Focussing on food in front of you not only helps you to taste it better, your brain also has the chance to engage with what you see and smell before the first bite. Without the distraction of something else, potentially stressful, such as work emails, social media, or the latest crime drama on TV, your body is in a state of calm referred to as “rest and digest,” which is optimal at meal times. An otherwise engaged body won’t produce enough stomach acid to properly break down food, which may result in bloating and irritation. Take a proper lunch break, sit at the dining table without the TV on and put your phone away to allow your gut to concentrate on doing its thing.

START WITH SOMETHING BITTER

Ever wondered why a bitter green salad usually accompanies steak, or mint sauce is served with lamb? Bitter foots such as rocket, kale, chicory, lemon and watercress help kick start the digestive process by encouraging stomach acid production. This is especially important for meals that include fats and red meat, which compared to other foods, take longer to break down. Include raw and bitter foods with a lemon or vinegary dressing to start your meal and help your gut prepare for optimal digestion.

AVOID DRINKING WITH MEALS

It’s important for the stomach to be very acidic when digesting food, but drinking lots of liquid between mouthfuls can lower the concentration of acid, reducing the rate at which the gut digests. It’s recommended to drink 20 to 30 minutes before or after a meal to aid efficient digestion and prevent bloating. If you do like to drink with your food, stick to smaller sips rather than large gulps.

LOOK OUT FOR PATTERNS

If you tend to feel bloated after most meals, take note of what might be causing it. Some common culprits can be gluten or wheat, dairy, sugar, or fat-heavy foods such as red meat and fried foods. Compare how you feel when you don’t eat these items to get an idea of triggers or possible intolerances. Speak to a health professional for tailored advice and support on how to improve your symptoms with functional testing available for further insight.

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS

Wedding Wellness offers bespoke services for brides, grooms and couples, to help you reach your health and wellness goals in the lead up to your big day. Always consult a professional if you have any specific skin concerns or medical conditions for personalised support. Check out www.wedding-wellness.co.uk

SELF-CARE Soothing

Our Social Media Editor, Gracie Leader, immersed herself in the world of Reiki to find out if the form of meditation can help you remain calm in the lead up to your big day

It’sno understatement to say that planning your big day can cause your stress levels to shoot all the way up. Not only are you spending a great deal of time (and money) to ensure every little detail is perfect; it also represents a giant life change you are about to experience with your partner.

That’s why, in the lead up to your nuptials, practicing self-care is more important than ever. Whilst self-care can look different for everyone (exercising, eating healthily or reading) one form of mindfulness you may not have thought of before is reiki.

Reiki is best known as a form of Complementary Therapy that focuses on energy healing. It works with the energy fields around the body and involves the transfer of universal energy, to be channelled from the practitioner’s palms to your body.

The thought process behind Reiki is that every living thing and their surrounding atmosphere contains energy, and so this can be channelled in a way to rebalance energy.

For a person, this is within the body and mind to support both your physical and emotional wellbeing. The physical in terms of aches and pains, the emotional in terms of feelings of anxiety and stress.

There is scepticism that surrounds the practice of Reiki. But there is a reason the NHS supports and recommends it as a hospital service and even if you are not a fan of spirituality, there is evidence to suggest Reiki may be useful to help manage mental health conditions, particularly anxiety, stress and depression.

Of course, I couldn’t possibly recommend Reiki without indulging in the self-care practice myself. So, in February, after a hectic and busy start to the year I met with Reiki Master, Georgina Hemsley. Georgina has been practicing Reiki for over 11 years. A qualified therapist, Georgina owned her own salon for 3 years specialising in massage, Reiki and facial treatments and a focus on organic and natural skincare.

“Reiki supports our emotional and mental well-being in many different ways, and can be different for each person, each time, Georgina explained to me. “This is dependent on what a person may be experiencing at the time of receiving reiki or if they have come for a reiki session for a specific reason, for example, to help them, in advance, navigate the sometimes overwhelming process of getting married. We suggest a treatment per month in the run up to your big day so we can support you from the beginning and you can enjoy the entire process right up to when you say I do.”

After getting myself comfortable on the treatment bed, Georgina explained how my body might (or might not) react to the treatment. She told me that some people feel very hot, others feel extremely cold, and some describe seeing bright colours or flashes of light. Georgina warned me it can be an emotional process and to allow any or all feelings to bubble up.

Georgina began the session with some guided mediation including breathwork and manifestation. She asked me to clearly consider my intentions for the rest of 2023 and place them at the front of my mind.

Your intention are vital when practicing reiki. Georgina encouraged me to ask myself “what are my stresses? Is anything troubling me? What would I like to receive?” I learnt, the more direct you can be about your self-healing practice, the more the universe will hear you.

I then received a temple massage to release tension and promote relaxation. This absolutely eased me into the right mindset for the rest of the treatment and allowed me to drift into a world of calm.

For the rest of the hour Georgina got to work – doing what she does best – using a combination of crystals, sound baths, and gentle touches to my pressure points.

At the end of the session Georgina informed me she had spent time rebalancing my chakras – noting my throat chakra was particularly unbalanced. She explained I might feel a difference in the way I communicate in the next few days - wanting to stay quiet or be more vocal.

“During a treatment, I disassociate myself from the physical being of the client. I am an extension of their energy. A vessel if you will,” Georgina explains. “It is not unusual to pick up on their feelings or any pains they may be experiencing during the session. I allow myself to be intuitively guided to move my focus to the parts of the body that need work. I clear this energy and set an intention to balance and instil a sense of calm.”

Whilst everyone sees different results from reiki, I came away from my first treatment feeling relaxed, renewed and with a sense I was better prepared to tackle anything come my way.

I recommend going in with an open mind and allow yourself to fully immerse in the treatment. Although it can’t be guaranteed the treatment will work for everyone, giving yourself an hour to switch off and allow someone else take your worries into their hands, can never be a bad idea.

As Georgina explained to me, she can’t recommend reiki enough for brides-to-be planning their big day. “We all know whilst our wedding is a magical day, the build-up can be very stressful. Reiki healing can help guide you throughout the planning and preparation, reiki will work with you to give you exactly what you need, so you can be very specific on your intention and what you want to gain from the reiki healing,” Georgina explains. “This could be to receive more support from your friends and family, to conquer any last-minute hurdles that arise, to ease your nerves, or to support your energy to feel calm and relaxed throughout.”

Caring for yourself and practicing mindfulness doesn’t always have to be seeking out these treatments however. Not everyone has the time, or indeed money, to meet a reiki master regularly.

Instead, it is important to find what works for you and build it in to your daily routine. Taking elements of Reiki into your self-care routine in the run up to the big day will help you to feel more relaxed and calmer. Self-care for you could reading, journaling or completing your skincare routine.

As Georgina is also the founder of Hemsley Organics she knows the importance of a good skin care routine. “Our Organic skincare can give you a well-deserved serotonin boost and provides an opportunity for mindfulness. Having a morning or evening routine can make you feel happier, as it’s all about the ritual and putting time and energy into making yourself feel good,” she explains. “Implementing a ritual can deepen that sense of well-being and prompt you to take just a little time out for yourself each morning and evening.”

Georgina and her husband Joe created the Anahata Collection to combine Skincare and Reiki. Feel good products that work to balance the plant-based extractions from the manufacturing process. Allowing them to be in their purest state of energy, as nature intended, supercharging them with their natural energies to enhance the efficacy of their benefits and provide a more spiritual skincare experience. For more information or to book a private reiki session with Georgina go to www.hemsleyorganics.com

Following the success of its first ever perfume, Bentley has launched a new luxurious scent called Bentley For Men Azure.

This powerfully expressive fragrance is a fresh twist on a modern creation that’s perfect for smart and style-conscious men. With notes of fruity pineapple, violet leaves, sage and cashmere wood, this fragrance is a contemporary burst of freshness.

Visit www.bentley-fragrances.com for more information.

Grooms’

To celebrate 60 years of the James Bond film franchise, N.Peal London has reimagined some of the spy’s most memorable looks in the brand’s signature style.

The 60th Anniversary Cashmere Collection features some of Bond’s iconic outfits from across eight of the spy’s most popular films. The collection includes overcoats, suits, jackets, sweaters and accessories inspired by Dr. No, Goldfinger, You Only Live Twice, The Man with the Golden Gun, The Spy Who Loved Me, Moonraker, Skyfall, Spectre and No Time to Die

Discover more at www.npeal.com

Award-winning men’s haircare brand, Salt Grooming offers styling products created using natural ingredients that are organic, sustainably sourced, paraben-free, and made in Britain.

NEWS

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

Brioni have been tailoring experts since 1945, marrying effortless Roman elegance with the finest Italian craftsmanship. To expand its offerings, the company has released its third men’s fragrance.

Eau de Parfum Éclat is a refined, joyful scent bursting with sustainable materials. Housed in a sleek, eco-responsible glass bottle, this new creation has notes of grapefruit, radiant roses and sandalwood and would make the perfect gift for the groom-to-be.

Check out www.brioni.com for more information.

Previously frustrated by the lack of choice compared to the women’s range of haircare products, founder Piers Le Moignan has embarked on a mission to develop a styling range using the very best ingredients.

Salt Grooming has launched the new Master Collection Limited Edition Gift Set, which is perfect for grooms-to-be. Presented in a luxury matte stamped box, it includes hair clay, a lightweight spray and thickening shampoo and conditioner.

Founder Piers says: “Our thickening shampoo and conditioner are our most clinically advanced formulas yet. They’re packed full of seven powerful and proven active ingredients in generous doses, directly addressing a broad range of men’s haircare concerns.”

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

The Henley Collection at Rotary Watches has several new iterations. The collection has swiftly become a beloved staple at Rotary Watches and is a popular choice in the brand’s portfolio. Known amongst fans as a versatile collection of day watches that incorporate contemporary designs into classic pieces, the new versions have much to offer and would make a great gift.

Powerfully built in stainless steel and sapphire glass, each timepiece contains a Miyota quartz-powered chronograph movement and date function. The striking intricacies of the timepieces are further complemented by each watch’s dial and bezel colour to suit different tastes. In addition to these colourful details, each watch in the new range features classic odes to sport watches and a stop/start function.

For more information, visit www.rotarywatches.com

SuitedAND BOOTED

Styling advice for the groom-to-be

Choosing a wedding dress is only part of the story when it comes to your big-day styling. To achieve a coordinated look, it’s important to think about what the groom-to-be and groomsmen will be wearing too. What you choose will ultimately come down to the style of wedding that you’re planning, the location and, of course, the time of year. To help you create the perfect look, the experts at Suit Direct (www.suitdirect.co.uk) have shared their styling advice.

HOW SHOULD A SUIT FIT?

Whichever style you go for can make or break your look. An ill-fitting suit, sagging shoulders, or a bunched-up jacket instantly cheapens your look – so how can you tell if a suit fits correctly?

Shoulders – a perfect fit will see your suit jacket lie flat on your shoulders and not be too bunched up or hanging off at the edges. A good benchmark is being able to relax your shoulders easily and comfortably.

Jacket – a suit jacket should close without strain and not cause creases, bunching, or sag forward when buttoned up. Equally, it should drape smartly when open and not droop down at the sides. You should be able to slide your thumb between the button of the jacket and your stomach without it feeling too tight or loose. In terms of length, the bottom of the jacket should end where your thumb knuckle is, and you should leave the bottom button undone to allow more freedom of movement.

Arms – the sleeves of a suit should be snug but not tight and show around 1cm of the shirt’s cuff – perfect if you want to show off cufflinks.

Trousers – the trousers of your suit should fit comfortably around the waist without falling away from your hips. They should just graze the top of your shoes or even leave a small gap. Trousers that are too long will bunch up and spill over your shoe – so make sure you know your leg measurements.

HOW TO MEASURE A SUIT

Measuring for a suit can take a little bit of effort, but it’s worthwhile to ensure you look sleek and sophisticated on the day. Size up if you’re looking for a skinny-fit jacket and trousers, and don’t rely on old measurements – you’d be surprised how quickly they can change.

Measure and note down the most prominent part of your chest, the narrowest part of your

waist and from the top seam of your inside leg to the trouser hem. Then, slip on a jacket and measure from your shoulder to your shirt’s cuff. Men with larger waistlines should take this measurement where they would naturally wear their trousers – this will ensure a plus-sized gentleman can still get a comfortable fit.

HOW TO MIX AND MATCH SUITS?

When it comes to mixing and matching, the main thing to note is the colour of each suiting element; create a combination that works in harmony, complements each piece and doesn’t clash too much. Pair a coloured jacket with dark trousers or chinos for the perfect smart-casual look, or pair a classic tailored men’s suit jacket with a mismatched pair of coloured trousers. Whether you’re after a formal look or a creative combo – the options are endless. The suit has evolved, and it’s now acceptable to wear tailoring your way.

NATURAL It’s only

With neutral colour palettes on the rise, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite products to ensure you look on-trend this season

JA637 Stand Out Summer Blazer, £110, www.joebrowns.co.uk

Antique Gold Brimstone Silk Single Breasted 6 Button Waistcoat, £360, www.favourbrook.com

SM559 Summer Print Shirt, £38, www.joebrowns.co.uk

Square-Toe Moccasin Loafers, £95, www.dunelondon.com

Oxford Blue Dried Flower Buttonhole, £16, www.maryelizabethflowers.co.uk

Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Weston Chronograph Leather Strap Watch 1710501, £179, https://uk.tommy.com

Stone Evering Linen Double Breasted 8 Button Shawl Lapel Piped Waistcoat, £208, www.favourbrook.com

Reiss Saturn Woven Tie, £58, www.next.co.uk

Organic Bray Herringbone Windsor Trousers, £260, www.favourbrook.com

Stone Linen Suit Jacket, www.jaeger.co.uk

Travel editor Melissa Cullen reveals new openings and honeymoon essentials

HONEYMOONNews

FRANCE

Located in the heart of Burgundy, France, one of the world’s most prestigious wine regions, is the new hotel COMO Le Montrachet.

Built on the former historic Hotel Le Montrachet, the new COMO property will be revamped and re-imagined by esteemed designer Paola Navone. The five-star building will be arranged across four heritage buildings, each of which will house sophisticated, sanctuary-like suites and rooms. Set to open in spring 2023, couples will adore the Shambhala Retreat, the first of its kind in France, exquisite dining options and wine experiences in one of France’s most beautiful settings.

To find out more, visit www.comohotels.com/new-como-properties

SAINT LUCIA

Couples looking for a picturesque honeymoon will love the new Total Romance Package at Jade Mountain, Saint Lucia, which includes everything from all-inclusive dining to a bottle of champagne on arrival. There are a wide variety of activities to choose from, including a tour of the nearby volcano, sulphur springs and mineral baths, a scuba diving course, a half-day sailing on a skippered resort yacht, and a relaxing Swedish massage.

Find out more at www.jademountain.com

SPAIN

Glamorous gastronomy awaits at Ibiza Gran Hotel, which was awarded Best Gastronomic Hotel of 2022, and is a must-visit for couples who love food. Its Michelin-starred flagship restaurant delivers seasonal, locally-inspired cuisine with a celebrated Mediterranean flare.

The property recently launched two new restaurants driven by a two-star Michelin chef, as well as a vibrant new late-night venue from the team behind the world-famous Park Chinois in Mayfair.

For more information, visit www.ibizagranhotel.com

MALDIVES

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, an exclusive private island resort on the southernmost tip of Raa Atoll, has launched an Island Romance Package. Perfect for a luxurious getaway or honeymoon, couples can indulge in lazy mornings by the pool, rejuvenating wellness treatments and intimate dining experiences.

The luxury package includes a stay in a beautifully-appointed villa or residence of the guest’s choice, a bottle of champagne, a three-course dinner at The Lighthouse, a 60-minute couples treatment at the overwater AVI Spa, and Club InterContinental benefits.

Visit www.ihg.com for more information.

SINGAPORE

Mondrian, part of Ennismore, a hospitality group with a global collective of 14 brands, will open a new property in Singapore in March 2023. The brand’s southeast Asian debut will inject its signature blend of art, glamour and culinary flair into the vibrant neighbourhood of Duxton Hill.

Rising above the historic and colourful Chinatown shophouses with sweeping views of the glittering city skyline, Mondrian Singapore Duxton is a stone’s throw from the Central Business District and will house 302 guestrooms and suites, a cinematic rooftop pool and restaurants and bars.

For more information, head over to the website www.sbe.com/hotels

SOUTH AFRICA

Part of the Misty Mountain Reserve in South Africa, the new glass Ocean Dome is nestled within the indigenous Tsitsikamma Forest, 230m above the sea. Surrounded by nature, this stargazing accommodation offers captivating views of the Indian Ocean. Whether lazing on the air bed with a book or soaking up the bubbles in a tub, the dome promises the ultimate relaxation experience.

There are several activities available and day trips to Misty can be organised for couples wanting to explore the local area. Visit www.mistymountainreserve.co.za for more information.

TURKEY

The Mediterranean’s new chic boutique resort, Yazz Collective, is opening for its first full season in 2023. Set within a private bay in Fethiye, Turkey, the resort boasts an unrivalled location and is only accessible by sea.

This serene retreat turns the volume up at the weekends as resident DJs take centre stage to host sundown session and after dinner parties.

Comprised of a beach restaurant, with menus boasting seasonal ingredients and local produce, a bustling bar and 16 luxury guest houses peppered amongst verdant gardens, the resort has been designed to sit in harmony with the surrounding nature.

Discover more at www.yazzcollective.com

GREECE

Parga Beach Resort in Greece has unveiled 23 new luxury suites for 2023. Set directly on blue-flag Valtos Beach, the resort has chosen to expand after experiencing a 30 per cent increase in bookings year on year post-pandemic.

Featuring a harmonious minimal design with private balconies, terraces and some with private plunge pools, the suites offer a true sense of seclusion. Suited to couples and families alike, travellers of all ages are invited to explore the new facilities. Check out www.pargabeachresort.gr for more information.

AFFAIR A grand

Louise Prance experienced the ultimate luxury combined with traditional Greek appeal at Rhodes-based Ixian Grand & All Suites

Approaching Rhodes by air, you’d be forgiven for missing a bird’s-eye view of the Ixian Grand & All Suites thanks to the beauty of Greece’s largest island, but for the eagle-eyed travellers you can spot the hotel due to its inimitable layout and luxurious beachfront private pool suites nestled luxuriously on the beach of Ixia Bay, just metres away from the sea.

Ixian Grand & All Suites is only 7km away from Rhodes town and the Medieval City of Rhodes, as well as being a mere 10-minute drive from Filerimos, one of the three ancient cities of Rhodes.

Overlooking the Ixia Bay and Aegean Sea, this hotel has the beauty of being adult-only, so is the ideal destination for a honeymoon offering total relaxation.

LUXE APPEAL

With 124 deluxe guestrooms with garden or sea view, the garden complex offers accommodation in 122 spacious and comfortable guestrooms, while the suites area is comprised of five buildings with 102 rooms and suites.

While all rooms offer a level of luxury only befitting a resort of this calibre, the aforementioned beachfront private pool suites are without doubt the way to go if you’re looking for a once-ina-lifetime experience, and I can attest you will wake up every morning to pinch-me-moments looking out over your private infinity pool to the crystal clear Aegean sea that stretches as far as

the eye can see. Looking for further wow factor? Enjoy a romantic soak in the bath and appreciate the floor-to-ceiling windows while watching the sun set over the ocean.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Talking romance, no honeymoon is complete without a romantic meal or five, and the Ixian Grand & All Suites has romantic eateries down to a fine art. Vis-à-Vis, the hotel’s main buffet restaurant, focuses mostly on the Mediterranean diet and the Greek cuisine, but also international food.

Milonges, is an open-air restaurant offers traditional Greek cuisine and is located by the main swimming pool, serving lunch and dinner, while Muza Htista offers Japanese and Peruvian cultures. My personal favourite was the Alazonia Suites Restaurant – while only available to those staying in suites, this stylish restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, with outdoor or indoor seating options.

Evenings were spent embracing the laidback Greek culture and indulging in a tipple or three at Truman’s Lobby Bar, which has a stunning terrace with views to the gardens, pools and the sea.

AND RELAX…

If you’re able to drag yourself away from the room, the pools and the idyllic scenery, then it’s almost a perquisite to try out the hotel’s spa, and Ixian Grand & All Suites offers one of the most tranquil I’ve had the pleasure of attending.

Offering massages, facials and beauty therapies, the spa also has an indoor pool and a Turkish bath, as well as a complimentary gym with a fitness instructor offering various daily classes – if you’re so inclined. I opted for a more relaxing pastime instead, and indulged in a full body

massage. An hour of total bliss, I emerged feeling even more relaxed, if that’s at all possible.

SIGHT SEEING

While it may be unimaginable why you’d want to leave the hotel’s complex, it would be remiss to visit a Greek island and not explore the locality and embrace the culture. We opted for a day trip to the Medieval Rhodes Old Town.

With walls four kilometres long, the Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and dates back more than 2000 years. With a breathtaking history, the site features Medieval buildings, mosques, traditional fountains, oriental motifs, Byzantine and Gothic churches, shops, a market and restaurants aplenty.

We whiled away hours mooching inbetween the castle walls, picking up classic Greek souvenirs before sampling traditional Greek food – and of course wine. What could be better than enjoying a sun-drenched glass of white while looking at white-washed buildings before heading back for sundowners at the hotel?

No honeymoon would be complete without getting out on the water, and activities abound in Rhodes. From SUP fun, to romantic boat rides, to kayak tours. Tick the aqua box and your romantic Greek getaway would be really complete.

with me Fly away

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite city escapes

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

ROME, ITALY

With a vibrant street life, cobbled streets and awe-inspiring art, Rome is undoubtedly one of the world’s most romantic cities. Love has always been a part of the story of Rome, with the largest temple in the Roman Forum being dedicated to Venus and Roma: the goddess of love and the goddess that personified the city.

Set in the heart of Rome’s historical centre, Rhinoceros Roma was established by Alda Fendi in 2018 and designed by world-renowned French architect, Jean Nouvel. The boutique features a modern and industrial vibe with new-meets-old design details throughout.

Home to 25 rooms, from studio apartments to penthouse suites, Rhinoceros Roma provides a haven for couples wanting to explore what this romantic city has to offer.

Discover more at www.rhinocerosroma.com

The Radisson Hotel Group has had a stellar year of openings and is planning to add new additions to its already impressive collection of properties. One of which is Mansard Riyadh in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which was named because of its distinct Mansard rooflines. Designed as a homage to the signature Parisian Haussmann style of the mid-1800s, the property is made up of 191 luxurious rooms, serviced apartments and duplex villas catering to short and long-term stays. The hotel is adding an outpost of New York’s Michelin-starred Carbone restaurant in 2023, which is a must-visit for couples staying at the property.

For more information, visit www.radissonhotels.com

MARRAKESH, MOROCCO

Nobu Hotel Marrakech is the Nobu brand’s first hotel in Africa. First opening its doors in January 2023, the property is just steps away from the city’s cultural epicentre, where rich heritage meets contemporary flair. The luxury lifestyle destination is complete with 71 spacious suites, a stunning rooftop lounge and restaurant, a 2,000 sq. ft luxurious spa and fitness centre, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a restaurant. Find out more at www.marrakech.nobuhotels.com

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM

Couples looking for a cosy experience in the heart of Brussels, Belgium, will love Craves. The perfect spot to discover the rich Medieval architecture, art, culture and sensational foodie scenes, Craves opened in July 2022 and was designed by renowned London-based Saar Zafrir Design.

The 59-room boutique hotel and restaurant will transport guests to the early 1900s Burlesque-era with its decadent interiors intended to arouse the senses. Craves evokes a dark and opulent aesthetic with comfortable rooms, lavish velvet furnishings and antique accessories reminiscent of Art Deco interiors.

Perfectly located within walking distance to the Grand Place landmark in Brussels, guests can discover the cultural hotspot while staying in one of the city’s chicest boltholes.

Visit www.craves-hotel.com for more information.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

For generations, the Department of Education building in Sydney’s Sandstone Precinct has stood empty, but in March 2023, it reopened as Capella Sydney. This heritage-listed icon marks the first property under the Capella Hotels and Resorts group to open in Australia.

Spanning eight levels, the 192 guestrooms and suites are anchored by three ground-level food and beverage outlets, with spaces throughout with commissioned and collected artworks – all within footsteps of the harbour foreshore, the famed Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Centred around the 20-metre heated indoor swimming pool, facilities exclusive to in-house guests include a high-tech fitness centre featuring Technogym equipment, a yoga platform, well-appointed changing rooms complete with a sauna, and a spa showcasing immersive treatment rooms for couples.

To find out more, visit www.capellahotels.com

PARIS, FRANCE

Located on the corner of Rue des Archives and Rue de la Verrerie, in the heart of Paris, Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin is the first urban hotel in the Maisons Pariente Collection. Joyful and flamboyant, Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin is a showcase of elegance with a mixture of styles and eras with a touch of humour.

The five-star hotel boasts 61 uniquely-decorated rooms and suites, a spectacular restaurant, a bar and a swimming pool.

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

BERLIN, GERMANY

Couples looking for a romantic escape in the heart of the city of Berlin, Germany, will be delighted by the Provocateur Hotel. Located in the upscale Charlottenburg neighbourhood and designed by renowned London-based Saar Zafrir Design, the 58 room boutique hotel, bar and restaurant transports its guests to the early 1900s Burlesque-era with its decadent interiors.

The Provocateur Hotel embodies old-school glamour with opulent, intricate interiors, red and blue colours, soft velvet furnishings and antiqued accessories, including a elevator dating back to 1912.

Couples staying at the hotel can sample a delicious Chinese-French menu and a four-course tasting menu at the hotel’s Golden Phoenix Restaurant, helmed by chef Duc Ngo.

Perfectly located just a short stroll distance from Berlin’s famed historic institutions, the hotel is within easy reach of local art galleries and tourist attractions.

Discover more at www.provocateur-hotel.com

ATHENS, GREECE

Dave Red Athens is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Athens, Greece, and is the first international outpost from the Brown Hotels’ affordable urban collection.

The property opened its doors in July 2022 and breathes a fresh, young energy into the recently transformed Omonia Square. Set just a stone’s throw away from its sister property, Brown Acropol, the 87-room boutique hotel features the brand’s distinguishable, punchy décor, with an industrial-style interior and fiery red branding.

Home to a bar, restaurant and a soon-to-launch underground nightclub, Dave Red Athens is perfect for exploring what the city has to offer. The property’s spacious rooftop offers undisrupted far-reaching views of the ancient city, a pool table, a Jacuzzi hot tub, a massage room and complimentary sparkling wine on tap.

Check out www.brownhotels.com/athens/davered for more information.

DID YOU KNOW?

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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

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A SPA DAY Santa needs

Now, I’ve been lucky enough to stay at The Runnymede once before, although the warm summer’s day certainly wasn’t comparable to the wintry, grey November day I found myself in when visiting a second time. I wondered; did it alter my view having been before? Could I honestly find enough about it to tell all my lovely readers about an authentic experience – well, read on, because you’ll hear why it was second time’s a charm for me!

As previously mentioned, the ominous grey skies of this winter’s day (and the M25 car park), hadn’t set me up for the most relaxed of mindsets to start my night away at The Runnymede. Arriving at the hotel, I was a tad deflated to say the least. However, no sooner had I trudged my way through the hotel’s revolving front doors was I warmed to the bones with a cosy ambience exuding from the lounge and lobby area. A true winter-warmer, there was a huge log fire keeping everyone toasty, Christmas trees and decorations glistening in abundance, low lighting complementing the hum of people relaxing and chatting away – I was instantly enthralled.

The modern aesthetic of the hotel has been sympathetically considered so that style never surpasses comfort. The large sofas and seating areas are all strategically placed to provide snug yet social spaces to catch up with loved ones or enjoy as a romantic twosome. Attentive waiters attend to your needs immediately; it wasn’t long before I was relaxing on a plush sofa next to the log fire, looking out at the river – still picturesque even in the winter – with a cocktail in hand. My morning was forgotten, a distant memory, although I think the cocktail helped with that too!

Our spacious River View suite was more than enough for two people on a much-needed night away. Armchairs and a table perfectly poised to watch the river run by, an enormous bed offered a perfect night’s sleep, and the bathroom was a suite in itself: two sinks and mirrors, walk-in shower and bath – it was like your very own beauty parlour! I could have easily whiled away an hour or two in our suite, but I swiftly changed into my robe, grabbed my book and headed down to the spa.

The spa is accessible from the main hotel, with its own entrance and reception area it feels like a luxurious members-only retreat. Whether you want to get the endorphins going in the fitness centre – which boasts river views – or while away the time in the swimming pool or Jacuzzi it’s got something for everyone. There are also adult-only times for the facilities which is perfect for minimooners.

After reading a few chapters in my book while enjoying a fruit

tea in the spa’s lounge area, I was greeted by a therapist to take me for my complimentary treatment an ESPA Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage.

Now, I’m a bit of a tough nut to crack, not just because I’m knotted up like a coil, but I also find it hard to practice mindfulness and enjoy the experience. I’m also out of my comfort-zone sat there in only a towel – I even hide in the bathroom at home! My therapist Claire was amazing, putting me at ease, she was incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions I had; it speaks volumes that I was able to nearly doze off! I also felt the knots in my back disperse for the first time, I knew I’d had a thoroughly wonderful and beneficial massage. The Runnymede is perfect for a spot of pre- or post-wedding pampering, treatments include manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing and a variety of massages as well as half-day and full-day spa experiences.

When staying in hotels, I’m always keen to book into the restaurants rather than venture out. Both dinner and breakfast were served in Leftbank, the hotel’s renowned buffet restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the river. At night, the dark winter evening was interspersed with intimate lighting, and the hotel’s festive décor really came in to its own with an extra splattering of fairylights and shimmering tones. The food was insatiable, for even the most discerning of critic who may shy away from the word ‘buffet’ but this is not an average offering!

With all kinds of culinary delights from delicious antipasti boards and salads to a variety of meat and fish options there’s something for everyone for starters, mains and desserts. As it was a Sunday we delved in to a hearty roast dinner (which was also on offer) and, not that I really had room for dessert but they certainly went down a treat – I tried three of the delicacies on offer! The open kitchen, wood-fired oven and rotisserie also provide a visual extravaganza too, cooking right before your eyes. Breakfast the next day didn’t disappoint either. Due to the light flooding in, the Leftbank feels bright and airy in the mornings, energising you for the day ahead. Again, there was possibly too much choice of fare from continental to hot cooked options, sweet and savoury, healthy fruits and muesli. There was not one fault in the dining experience on offer here.

After a final coffee, gazing at the river, we were thinking about our day ahead in Windsor complete with a visit to the castle to see the Christmas decorations! Alas, it was time to say goodbye. I couldn’t quite believe the whirlwind 24-hours I had here and that was all down to the wonderful experience The Runnymede had given me. From the surroundings to the staff, the wellbeing ethos to the mouth-watering food, I was looked after, rejuvenated and ready for the world again. Thank you!

Located on the banks of the picture-perfect River Thames in Surrey, just 10 minutes from Windsor, The Runnymede on Thames is a modern fourstar hotel with an award-winning spa offering.

The Runnymede on Thames set the scene for a much-needed pre-Christmas break for Danielle Harvey…

WIN A FOUR-NIGHT BREAK IN TUSCANY

The ultimate honeymoon destination, the romance of Tuscany awaits

Located in the Tuscan region, both Grand Universe Lucca and Renaissance Tuscany II Ciocco are characterised by their elegance and luxury service. Alongside their stunning views, whether that be the terracotta tiles of Lucca’s city center or the rolling hills of Lucca’s wine region there’s history in abundance. As the birthplace of olive oil and famous classical composer, Giacomo Puccini, explore the region’s winding ancient walls, or stroll through the city’s many piazzas sampling the local produce and cuisine. Spend two nights at Grand Universe exploring the city’s romantic, candle-lit streets, later retiring to the hotel’s Champagne Rooftop for a complimentary glass of fizz and dinner in the hotel’s Legacy Restaurant. Once the city has been explored, continue your adventure into the mountains and vineyards of Tuscany for a stay at Renaissance Tuscany II Ciocco, where a spa treatment for two awaits, alongside dinner at the hotel’s La Salette restaurant.

THE PRIZE

 Two nights at Grand Universe Lucca (breakfast for two persons for each night)

 Two nights at Renaissance Tuscany II Ciocco (breakfast for two persons for each night)

 One dinner for two at each hotel

 A drink for two at Grand Universe Lucca’s Champagne Rooftop bar

 A luxury spa treatment for two at Renaissance Tuscany II Ciocco

For your chance to win, answer this following question and enter online at www.yourdevoncornwall.wedding

Q: In which part of Tuscany are the hotels located, the North or South?