At Aviator you’re spoilt for choice with four diverse spaces. If you’re looking for a blank canvas where there is opportunity to inject creativity and personality into your special day then this is the venue for you. We celebrate being unique and we have a trusted list of local suppliers that can help your vision come to life with unusual requests being accommodated where possible.
Ceremony | up to 95 guests
Wedding Breakfast | up to 80 guests
Evening Reception | up to 125 guests
Ceremony | up to 80 guests
Wedding Breakfast | up to 80 guests
Evening Reception | up to 110 guests
Ceremony | up to 40 guests
Wedding Breakfast | up to 40 guests
Evening Reception | up to 40 guests
Wedding Breakfast | up to 20 guests
BOOK A
...and enjoy a cokctail with us!
T: +44 (0)1252 555 892
E: WEDDINGS@AVIATORHAMPSHIRE.COM
W: AVIATORHAMPSHIRE.COM/WEDDINGS
This issue’s cover has been taken from the styled shoot on page 45, which was captured by the talented Katie Rogers Photography (www.katierogersphotography.com).
45 ALL IN THE DETAIL
This glamorous shoot featured modern touches and luxurious styling
49 CITY CHIC
The Duchess of Cornwall Inn provided the perfect backdrop to this stunning shoot
52 SLICE AS NICE
Be inspired by seasonal cakes from talented bakers
79 DRESSING THE WEDDING PARTY
Fashion advice for your nearest and dearests
59 FASHION FOCUS
The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches
60 SHORT AND SWEET
The thigh’s the limit with this chic selection of shorter-length bridal dresses
63 I’M A BARBIE GIRL
Take inspiration from summer’s most anticipated movie release with fun, flirty styles
68 BEAUTY BUZZ
Get the look with these must-haves for the bride-to-be
70 KEEP CALM AND MARRY ON
Professional nutritionists at Wedding Wellness share their stress-beating tips
72 SKIN DEEP
We caught up with Angela Langford whose eponymous brand offers a wide range of skin care designed to make you feel great
75 BEAUTY Q&A
Look your big-day best with help from the professionals
84 WATCH THIS SPACE
Expert advice on choosing a watch for your wedding
85 GROOMS’ NEWS
The latest best buys and product launches
86 GREEN WITH ENVY
We’ve rounded up some of the latest on-trend products for the groom-to-be
29 TRULY TRADITIONAL Dorset was the perfect location for Charlotte and Andrew’s intimate wedding
34 LOVE IS IN THE AIR
Kirsty and Scott’s speical day at Parley Manor was one to remember
40 RURAL ROMANCE
Katy and Joe had a magical wedding with a dusky pink colour scheme
90 HONEYMOON NEWS
Discover the newest openings and honeymoon destinations
92 HOORAY FOR HAMPSHIRE!
Find out what makes the New Forest such a special spot for mini-mooners
94 THE CITY OF LOVE
Melissa Cullen reveals why Paris is the perfect honeymoon destination
97 RIVERSIDE ROMANCE
The Mitre Hampton Court is the perfect location for a night away for two
“What a fantastic addition to our wedding party. George and his colleague were professional and so helpful. The set up was perfect. Magic mirror was so much fun and looking at the photos all our guests thought so too. Highly recommend the guest book (pay extra) it’s worth it. would definitely rebook them when we have parties in the future.” — Sam
ADVERTISING
Account Manager Ruth Swallow | 01376 538 568 ruth.swallow@county.wedding
Hellolovely readers, and welcome to another issue of Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding!
EDITORIAL Editor Olivia Gibson | 01376 535 611 olivia.gibson@county.wedding
I hope you’ve all been keeping well and have been enjoying spring. There’s something so refreshing about this time of year; it’s all about fresh starts and new beginnings. I’m looking forward to the warm weather and longer days as we slowly creep towards summer. There’s nothing I love more than venturing outdoors; I’m talking picnic dates, barbecues with loved ones, forest walks with the dogs and beach days with friends.
Summer is a wonderful time to tie the knot, not just because of the glorious sunshine – although that’s a huge perk! Thanks to the longer days, you’ll be able to have a later ceremony with plenty of time for your photographer to capture memorable pictures outdoors, especially those golden-hour shots! Imagine roasting marshmallows with loved ones around fire pits, enjoying outdoor games on the lawns or eating from a food truck. Thanks to the more consistent weather, the opportunities are endless.
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
Planning a wedding is an exciting experience where you can create a dream-worthy day to celebrate your love and commitment to one another. This issue is packed with local suppliers who would be honoured to take part in your magical day; they’ll work with you to offer advice and help bring your visions to life.
If you’re stuck with wedding planning and need inspiration, don’t forget to check out our beautiful weddings and styled shoots. I’m talking showstopping venues, gorgeous styling, oh-sobeautiful blooms and wow-factor touches.
That’s all from me; happy planning!
Oliviacannot 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 Hampshire & Dorset Wedding is published six times a year.
Embrace the colour green with this dashing suit from Next.
Looking for ways to decorate a marquee? Discover ways to incorporate flowers throughout the space for the ultimate wow-factor wedding.
What’s not to love about this showstopping shoot full of glamorous and traditional styling with an edgy touch?
The HMS Warrior offers an iconic and unforgettable backdrop for wedding celebrations.
you want to arrive in spectacular, vintage style on your wedding day?
Freddie will ensure that you do exactly that.
What’s included?
Freddie, the VW campervan, can seat a driver and 4 passengers. Freddie will be beautifully decorated with your choice of colour for ribbons and bows. He has everything you might need to make your journey comfortable: rugs, cushions and a large, white umbrella available should the weather be a bit tricky. He also carries a bag of tricks in case of any hair or dress emergencies. We only book one wedding a day so you will have plenty of time to get all those wonderful pictures of your wedding party with the campervan. You can rest assured of our best, undevided attention on your wedding day.
PLUS so much more!
For bookings email: radiantretrorides@outlook.com
Radiant Retro Rides radiant_retro_rides @Radiant Retro Rides
e way of the owers - Story telling through the beauty of owers in Dorset and beyond. For any occasion, we create bespoke arrangements and transformative installations for your special day, walking with you every step of the way.
Broadstone,
We all have milestones to celebrate at some stage in our lives and my role as the Wessex Celebrant is to help you create a ceremony that is meaningful, heartfelt and full of memories for you and your guests.
For more information and a no obligation chat about your forthcoming occasion contact Richard on 07355 053178 or email richard@thewessexcelebrant.co.uk
Based in Hampshire, Daniel Pitts Media is a wedding photographer and videographer now offering a personalised film poster for the ultimate wedding keepsake.
Daniel often creates posters and flyers using his background in design, which is where the brilliant idea came from. By incorporating an image from a wedding, he can include personal elements and each couple’s love story to create a special piece to treasure for years to come.
The film’s title, reviews, cast and tagline are all replaced by details such as song lyrics, suppliers, wishes from guests, names of loved ones or pets and other unique information that means something special. It’s a great way to display a wedding photo while including many personal details and an element of fun.
The company can provide this service for all couples, provided they can supply Daniel with a high-resolution image.
Discover more about the company: www.danielpittsweddings.com
Here at YHDW HQ, we’ve caught up with videographer Finlay Williams to discover more about the company and what he can offer for weddings.
What do you offer nearlyweds?
I’m a young, up-and-coming wedding videographer in the South West. I’m currently studying for a film and photography degree at the Art University Bournemouth, where I’m developing my filmmaking skills.
What do you offer nearlyweds?
I offer full-day coverage for £895, which consists of seven to eight videos with a total viewing time of 90 to 120 minutes. Couples will also receive a four-to-six-minute video of all the compact memories to relive the day and share with loved ones.
Why did you start the company?
After shooting my first wedding three years ago, I immediately fell in love with the creative process and entered what I believe is one of the most rewarding careers. I’m conscious of being discreet throughout your day, using minimal equipment to blend into the background.
Discover more about the company: www.finlaywilliams.com
The team at G.O.S Magic Mirror Photo Booth are excited to announce their new product, The Mirror Air Booth, one of the most advanced and latest magic mirror photo booths on the market.
All guests will surely be amazed by the incredible picture quality, superior prints and wonderful wedding animations included in the packages and developed on a spectacular 65-inch mirror. The staff can’t wait to make some magical memories with more newlyweds. They pride themselves in outstanding customer service and only use professional equipment to make those dream memories come true.
Discover: www.facebook.com/GOSmagicmirror
The talented team at Jeremy France Jewellers in Winchester always listens to clients’ concerns while improving their services along with the extensive wedding ranges.
To ensure all nearlyweds are confident with their wedding jewellery, the staff now offer interest-free credit and insurance in-store and online. It can be easy in the wedding rush to forget to insure wedding bands, but the team doesn’t want their couples to feel the devastation when a new ring is lost and can’t be replaced. Having interest-free finance available for wedding bands can also help with budgeting for the big day while ensuring pairs don’t have to compromise on getting exactly what they want.
With an ever-growing variety of diamond and gemstone engagement options as well as wedding collections, there’s something for everyone.
Discover more about the company: https://jeremyfrancejewellers.co.uk
Portsmouth-based Funbooth LTD has launched three new décor packages to help create a straightforward and hassle-free service for couples planning their big day. Including chair décor, table décor, signage and post boxes, lovebirds can now choose from The Petite, The Details or The Works package depending on the size of their wedding.
Happy couples can choose from the catalogue of hire items to customise each package to suit their theme. Upgrades are also available, and pairs can swap items if needed. The range continuously grows with new faux floral items and a wider range of candles and vases. Every package includes the team delivering, setting up and collecting the pieces to create a stress-free service for nearlyweds.
Watch this space as more package options will be available soon!
Discover the company: www.funbooth.uk.com
Exciting things are happening this summer for the team at Radiant Retro Rides, who are exhibiting at wedding fayres across Hampshire this summer. They’ll be on Southsea Common for the annual Beach Dubbin event on 6th August to showcase their iconic VW Campervan, Freddie, in all his wedding finery. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet the team and see the vehicle in person, which is currently having a pamper respray ahead of this year’s wedding season. His colours will remain the same as everyone loves, but Freddie will be ultra-shining from roof to bumpers. With the Campervan looking smarter than ever, the company will continue searching for another vehicle to join Freddie and the team.
Discover more: www.facebook.com/radiantretrorides
Dooker Entertainment was established a year ago and is now introducing its new prop hire branch to add much more to personal events. The team can now offer sweet carts, post boxes, popcorn machines, cake stands, light-up numbers and much more! They are rapidly growing the number of props available, which are being added to the ever-growing list on their website.
Managing director Rosalind Chivers-Dyke has been providing venue décor and balloon displays for a year after falling in love with weddings when she tied the knot. With her partner’s help, they have been working hard to establish their public event, Purify Festival, and other memorable events.
Discover more: www.dookerentertainment.co.uk
http://kimberleygarrod.co.uk
We offer customised packages for weddings, hen parties, engagements or any other occasion.
Covering Dorset and parts of Hampshire we can bespoke our bar to your requirements and theme of your wedding.
Call: 07557 503 831 or email: saddlestop@outlook.com
www.facebook.com/people/The-Saddle-Stop
Dooker Entertainment are an inclusive event service, providing event prop hire and decor services, including balloon art, event consultation and management.
• BALLOON ARCHES, HOOPS & GARLANDS • SWEET CARTS
• POPCORN MACHINES • CAKE STANDS • POST BOXES
• LIGHT UP NUMBERS
We are based in Poole, Dorset and provide services throughout Dorset and Hampshire.
www.dookerentertainment.co.uk 01202 677056
Dawn Clarke Designs specialises in luxury celebration clothing for little girls, exquisitely designed and handmade with care in the UK.
Owner Dawn Clarke is not only showcasing her first collection of pure silk flowergirl dresses this season, but a small selection of girls’ party dresses created from deconstructed sample wedding gowns – perfect for eco-conscious nearlyweds.
Dawn knows how important it is to try and reduce the number of fabrics going to landfills. So she uses as much fabric as possible to create the dresses using silk, cotton and organza fabrics as well as netting. Each dress is traditional in style, fully lined with a zip fastening back, feature darts at the back and a net underskirt to finish off the look.
To celebrate, we’ve teamed up with the company to offer readers 20 per cent off the party dresses when they use the code 9B5RH7Z4 at checkout by July 1st 2023.
View the eco-sustainable dresses that are available here: https://dawnclarkedesigns.co.uk/product-category
The hunt for the perfect bridal jewellery stops here, with a chance to win £250 worth of jewels from COEUR DE LION – celebrating 35 years in business this year! Handmade in Germany, each piece is lovingly crafted by a team of artisans from the finest materials at its Stuttgart workshop, genuine natural stones, shimmering crystals and freshwater pearls give each piece individuality. The brand’s new freshwater pearl collection offers the ideal bridal jewellery, or you could choose to spend your winning voucher on lovely gifts for all your bridesmaids.
Visit www.coeur-de-lion.org to view the entire range.
County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with COEUR DE LION to offer readers the chance to win a £250 voucher. Enter via our website. Terms and Conditions apply.
My name is Mandi and I would like to tell you what you can expect from me…
A unique, bespoke, personalised telling of your love story.
No rules, restrictions, or time constraints. Your choice of locations or venue … yes, totally where you would like. A one of a kind, never seen before and never to be repeated ceremony.
Ultimately, ‘Your Love Story’ told ‘Your Way’. If I have captured your interest, please take the time to visit my website.
www.mandimurfittcelebrant.co.uk
mandi@mandimurfittcelebrant.co.uk
07738 620879
mandimurfittcelebrant
Together, we can create ‘Your Special Day’ and make your dream come true! With
01590 622 922 | www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/rhinefieldhouse
Rhinefield House is a luxury Hotel deep within the New Forest National Park. With 40 acres of landscaped gardens, the historic grounds were once home to Queen Victoria. With beautiful surroundings and a blend of Tudor and Gothic architecture, the property is a beautiful country location for weddings.
Couples will find the Forest Garden Doric Temple in a private area of the gardens with the magnificent Rhinefield House in the background –ceremonies will feel magical surrounded by 130 people. Or The Grand Hall, a replica of London’s Westminster Hall, has as much grandeur. Intricate carvings and oak panelling complement the gold chandeliers and the impressive original windows offering views over the grounds. What’s more, the Minstrels Gallery provides the perfect position for bird’s-eye view photographs. After the “I dos”, the team can transform the space for receptions.
The Hurst Castle is ideal for 100 loved ones, with several layouts
available. The contemporary area has a separate entrance and terrace, which overlooks the topiary orchard. The neutral décor is ideal for all types of themes, and there’s plenty of natural lighting from the floor-toceiling windows.
For more intimate weddings with 35 people, The Keepers Room has a lovely and relaxed atmosphere. The ornamental fire place and delicate chandelier are vital features, while the large bay window makes for a beautiful backdrop to the vows. The location is perfect for evening receptions too.
The team offers a complimentary menu tasting session five months before weddings for those booking the venue for their special day. They’ll also offer the bridal experience package, which includes a night’s stay prior weddings in the suite for up to six guests, a bottle of prosecco, use of the leisure facilities and a room service breakfast. The Grooms Room Package occurs from 8 am to 2 pm with bacon rolls, beer and space for friends to gather.
The Hotel has 50 bedrooms on-site for loved ones staying over, which includes three feature suites.
01590 625 779 | www.balmerlawnhotel.com
Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa is a must-see for couples looking for a romantic postcard setting. Set behind a cricket pitch, the iconic venue has the perfect mixture of traditional and contemporary styles. With sun-drenched terraces and beautiful gardens, lovebirds will be spoilt for choice when it comes to stunning backdrops. Looking out over the lawn, the impressive building boasts a fascinating past and has been used as everything from a hunting lodge and a field hospital to an army staff college and coaching inn. As an award-winning destination for weddings, pairs can
exchange vows in the garden’s oak-beamed Sylvan Pavilion. Or, why not opt for the Beaulieu Suit with 140 loved ones? Set back from the main Hotel with its own entrance and facilities, the suite includes the refurbished Beaulieu Room, the Hamble space with a bar and dancefloor as well as the Avon area for extra seating. There’s access to three outdoor terrace areas, including the Hotel gardens. In the evenings, newlyweds can party the night away with up to 220 loved ones. What’s not to love about the beautiful high-ceilinged Savernake Room? The light and airy space with a private decked terrace is ideal for intimate weddings or post-vows drinks.
www.lydiastampsphotography.com
HALE PARK 07973 727 757 | www.haleparkweddings.co.uk
Set in the middle of an agricultural estate in a private corner of the New Forest, couples will approach Hale Park down a long avenue of lime trees. Surrounding the house are the extensive grounds, which feature a small rose garden, a topiary, a maze, two ponds and many hidden areas to discover.
Exchange vows in St. Mary’s Church, a short walk through the stunning gardens, or around the grounds where couples will find grand and
intimate spaces to host civil ceremonies or celebrant-led weddings. The woodland glade in the far gardens is a great setting! The Drawing Room is another showstopping space with high ceilings, chandeliers and views over Avon Valley – perfect for 112 guests. The team can also transform the space for wedding breakfasts with 120 loved ones, or the celebrations can continue in the gardens with a marquee. Here pairs can add fun touches such as gin trolleys, fish and chip vans, pizza trucks or NipponEuro fusion takeaway pop-ups. There’s space for bouncy castles, crazy golf, cricket, buckin’ broncos, live music and DJs – plus fireworks can be arranged in the evenings.
BALMER LAWN HOTEL & SPA
Where could be more magical to host a woodland wedding than hidden amongst the trees of a private estate within the New Forst National Park.
Our venue is fabulously private and secluded, and available for your exclusive use, to enjoy your uniquely memorable occasion.
Our team will be on hand to ensure your special day is one to remember for all the right reasons.
Hale Park: where no two weddings are the same.
Civil Ceremony in rooms, woodland or under portico. Freedom to create your own style.
Church in the garden – walk to reception
Exclusivity in the New Forest Party! 70-120 inside; 200-ish outside
Huge garden – Bridal/make-up suite – camping. More!
“You certainly do have the best job in the world, and you are great at it. I love the way you have put this together - it’s beautiful”. A & A
“We have enjoyed working with you on our wedding ceremony. You have been professional, personable and nice”. K&S
“Thank you for delivering our daughter’s beautiful wedding ceremony with grace, sentiment and personality, ”. R
“We’re so excited to have you as our Celebrant for our forthcoming wedding”. S&D
www.haleparkweddings.co.uk
07976 394 663 | www.weddingsinthewood.co.uk
What location could be more magical to host woodland weddings than hidden amongst the trees of a private woodland estate within the New Forest National Park? Weddings In The Wood is a fabulously exclusiveuse setting with green lawns and woodland areas to explore.
The licensed woodland bar is where the party begins and ends with a selection of ales, larger and ciders. With a constantly changing wide range of artisan gins and spirits, lovebirds can always sample something different. The venue offers four drink allowances to avoid corkage charges, allowing pairs to supply drinks after the ceremony, wine for the meal and beverages for the speeches.
The Carpenters Barn is an ideal place to tie the knot with 120 people and dance the night away. The large slow-burning wooden stove with a brick chimney is a central feature. Oak beams span the roof, and the interior decoration is neutral to create the perfect canvas to decorate.
Located on 23 acres of spectacular grounds, Macdonald Elmers Court Hotel is a magnificent 19th-century manor house that has kept much of its original charm and character. Whether lovebirds plan to say “I do” in stunning stately rooms or outdoors, the team offers a fantastic selection of romantic and elegant ceremony settings.
Check out: www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/elmers-court
For those searching for a chilled setting with an authentic country feel for receptions, check out The Mortimer Arms. The former Edwardian dowager house has been beautifully converted into a chic boutique Hotel while retaining a wealth of charm. Set on the edge of the New Forest, the décor is sympathetic to the rural area. Check out: www.mortimerarms.co.uk
When the sun’s shining, meander up through the hidden pathway to a tranquil woodland location amongst pine trees of the North Woods with more than 120 guests. Or head down into the South Woods, following the path to a circular clearing within a canopy of native trees. Alternatively, walk up a grass-lined aisle to a beautiful open space within the heart of the venue and exchange vows on the lawns with 120 loved ones.
For a more intimate setting where couples can have small legal ceremonies while guests are waiting in the woods or being entertained on the lawns, the Bridal Shepherd Hut can host six people.
The marquee is the perfect location for 125 to150 people for wedding breakfasts. Draped in neutral colours, it allows any theme to make an impact. The team can open the wall panels to let the outside in during the summer, and guests will be immersed in the magical woodland surroundings. The lawns and Fire Circle is another option to host receptions with more than 120 nearest and dearest.
For unpredictable weather, a large indoor space can fit up to 150 guests during the day and more in the evening if needed.
Nestled in the heart of the woodland, couples can tie the knot among the treetops at the Countryside Education Trust’s magical venue near Beaulieu. A quirky rope bridge connects the two large treehouses, both licensed for ceremonies with exclusively use for the whole day.
Check out: www.cet.org.uk/weddingsandvenue
This quintessential country pub is nestled in the heart of the New Forest in picturesque Minstead, one of the oldest villages in the national park. With the famous local ponies and donkeys ambling past, it’s a picture-perfect location for a wedding celebration to remember.
Check out: www.thetrustyservant.co.uk
The Port House , Marina Keep , Port Solent PO6 4TH has just finished a major refurbishment which has seen the venue transformed into a beautiful waterside venue with contemporary furnishing and delicious bespoke Hampshire food and produce , the on site caterers are vanilla catering and Events. Vanilla’s key ethics are attention to customer service and the use of top quality local ingredients. These result in bright, modern, food styles, presented with attention to detail in an unfussy yet friendly manner. They are members of county food group Hampshire Fare and are thus committed to using as much locally sourced produce for their menus as possible. www.hampshirefare.co.uk
On booking your wedding at the Port House you are appointed with a wedding planner who will advise on everything from timings to table plans. This is a complimentary service supplied to all couples There is a fully licensed bar on site which has been manufactured from reclaimed railway sleepers making it a wonderful focal point at the venue. Parking is complimentary and plentiful.
The Port House is licensed for civil ceremonies and can be hired for exclusive use for your wedding day. In its flexible, purpose designed space, it is capable of accommodating small numbers for intimate private fine-dining through to weddings for 180 guests.
www.theporthouse.org | 02392385389
CHESIL HOUSE
01962 820 088 | www.chesilhouse.com
Chesil House is a must-see hidden gem in the heart of Winchester. Set on the banks of the River Itchen, the stunning 19th-century venue provides an idyllic setting for magical weddings.
The stunning views from the deck overlooking the fast-flowing tributary and private garden will wow guests. With secluded gardens, stunning riverside views and beautiful rooms, it offers a wealth of enchanting spaces for special events.
Enjoy exclusive use of the intimate venue, licensed for ceremonies and receptions with loved ones. Memorable views of the river and garden from every window offer a stunning backdrop throughout the day. With bi-fold doors leading to a spacious decking area, lovebirds can enjoy wedding breakfasts with an al fresco feel. With its sweeping lawns, colourful landscape borders and private bridge, the Walled Garden provides many standout photo opportunities and an excellent location for drinks receptions.
www.facebook.com/adamriversphotography
With bespoke packages tailored specifically to suit different couples, the award-winning resident caterers can create a little bit of foodie heaven.
RNLI COLLEGE
01202 663 471 | www.rnli.org/college
Overlooking Holes Bay, the RNLI College is a bright and modern venue with a fabulous waterfront setting on the edge of Poole Harbour. Licensed for ceremonies, couples can choose from attractive rooms with bay views. The ground-floor Waterfront Suite has direct access to the sea terrace right by the water’s edge – great for post-vow drinks. The RNLI lifeboats moored on the pontoons make it the perfect backdrop for standout
photos. The suite can accommodate up to 150 people for wedding breakfasts and an extra 50 in the evenings. For more intimate affairs, the Harbour View Suite provides a romantic setting for celebrations.
Those who book the venue for their special day will be offered a complimentary wedding-night stay in a harbour-view bedroom.
Every £1 spent here goes towards saving lives at sea.
www.facebook.com/adamriversphotographyTHE PORT HOUSE
02392 385 389 | www.theporthouse.org
This versatile venue ticks all the boxes for couples looking for a stunning waterside location for their big day. Overlooking the Port Solent Marina, with views of the yachts, it’s a picture-perfect spot! Even outside seating allows pairs to make the most of the setting. The waterfront terrace and patio are perfect for drinks receptions or barbecues in the warmer months.
The contemporary furnishing inside the bright and airy space includes a
bespoke bar made from reclaimed railway sleepers and a feature ceiling. Ceremonies are held in the Regatta Room or the larger Ocean Suite, which can host up to 120 family and friends for the “I dos” followed by sit-down meals. For larger receptions with up to 300 guests, a marquee can be attached to the side of the property.
The on-site caterers, award-winning Vanilla Catering, produce bespoke meals using local Hampshire produce. All couples will enjoy a complimentary pre-tasting session.
BOATHOUSE 4 RESTAURANT
02392 731 552 | https://dockyardevents.com/events/weddings
Situated on the South Coast, the Boathouse 4 Restaurant is the ideal setting for memorable weddings with 100 to 200 people.
Complete with stunning harbour views and boasting a historical focal point with the HMS Warrior as a backdrop, it’s no wonder why this exclusively-use property is such a popular destination. The private bar and lounge can be enjoyed as part of wedding celebrations, while the mezzanine level is the ideal setting to enjoy drinks receptions with champagne, canapés and an oyster bar.
With some of Portsmouth’s finest views, guests will surely fall in love with the space as soon as they arrive, especially when they try the bespoke menus with delicious cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients by the finest chefs.
The fabulous team has a list of recommended suppliers they work closely with, and they’ll work with couples to ensure they achieve their dream wedding.
BOATHOUSE 7 02392 731 552 | https://dockyardevents.com/events/weddings
Located in Portsmouth, Boathouse 7 is a charming venue providing the ideal setting for large weddings with 350 to 450 loved ones.
The restored historic boathouse can host wedding breakfasts and receptions to help couples celebrate in style. The kitchen brigade has developed menus with locally sourced and elegantly presented cuisine. Guests will love the experience of celebrating on dry land as the water of the harbour laps beneath.
Whitewashed walls and triple-height exposed timber ceilings bring a rustic edge to this exceptional events space. Photographers will love taking advantage of the setting and stunning view.
Available exclusively, couples will have their perfect wedding surrounded by loved ones.
© liavitoneenquiries@eventperfection.co.uk
Tel: 01794368624 Mob: 07514930961
themanor_weddings@outlook.com | 01308 897660 www.redcatpubcompany.com/inns/dorset/chesil-beach-manor
For a truly unique wedding why not experience our beautiful and contemporary waterfront setting. A wedding celebration at the home of the RNLI will make your special day even more memorable. As every pound spent goes towards saving lives at sea.
For more information contact our Wedding Coordinator on: 01202 663489
Email private_events@rnli.org.uk RNLl.org/college/weddings
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SC037736).
Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland. (20003326) and the Bailwick of Jersey (14)
Share your special day with up to 200 guests at the 4-star Holiday Inn Winchester.
•Lawn and terrace are perfect for reception drinks and photographs
•Bespoke wedding packages available
•Experienced wedding coordinators
•Fully licensed for civil ceremonies
Winter Wedding packages start from £2,500
Call 01962 670700 (option 4) to book your showround or email events@hiwinchester.co.uk and speak to a member of the team. www.hiwinchester.co.uk
Exclusive use venue with onsite accommodation. Our incredible 16th Century Purbeck stone barn can seat 130 with capacity of up to 180 in the evening, or use our stunning grounds for a more intimate setting.
01202 237 915 | www.keywestbournemouth.co.uk
Located on the Bournemouth Pier, Key West Bar & Grill offers the perfect backdrop to weddings with magnificent 270-degree views of the bay and large panoramic windows that provide photographic opportunities.
Licensed for civil ceremonies, the team can host weddings from the words “I do” until couples have danced the night away. Pairs will have memorable weddings with tailored packages to suit all types of budgets and requirements.
Tie the knot surrounded by up to 120 loved ones before continuing the celebrations with 216. For the wedding breakfast, tables surround a big dancefloor to make the room symmetrical and guests can enjoy the bar on-site.
The venue’s stunning terrace is a popular spot with views overlooking the Isle of Wight, Poole, Bournemouth and Studland. With a mixture of benches, tables and umbrellas, it’s perfect for guests to relax and take in the English sun.
01983 612 711 | www.seaviewhotel.co.uk
Located on the Isle of Wight in the picturesque sailing village of Seaview, The Seaview Hotel is a classic British venue that has expanded and grown over the years.
The charming little village has a nostalgic feel, as only a little has changed since the 50s. The Solent teems with various charming and delightful boats during the summer, including the historic Seaview Mermaids – some are more than 100 years old and still sail today! Out of season, the place has an appealing and unspoiled charm.
The standard of food in the Hotel restaurant is very high, with 2 AA Rosettes and a Michelin Bib Gourmand for a quality, affordable menu. The Aquitania is located at the front of the Hotel and pays homage to The
RMS Aquitania, known as the ship beautiful, and features a camouflage feature wall alongside images of the jetset. It provides the ideal location for ceremonies with 25 people and 28 in the evenings. The intimate restaurant is located at the front of the venue and combines good food with modern service.
For larger weddings, The Bistro can host up to 50 people and showcases the Navy dazzle camouflage used in World War Two, while the sunny streetside terrace is the place to enjoy drinks with loved ones.
The venue’s narrow 1901 façade will make an impression on guests, as will the nautical memorabilia at every turn.
www.katybrothersweddingphotography.com02392 891370
www.nmrn.org.uk/venue/portsmouth-venue-hire
The pride of Queen Victoria’s fleet, HMS Warrior, offers an iconic and unforgettable backdrop for wedding celebrations. Launched in 1860, its timber frame tells more than 150 years of history and is awaiting future nearlyweds to become part of its story. Make an entrance by walking down the aisle on the ship’s beautifully restored deck, and say “I do” in Victorian splendour.
Located in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, take guests to the upper deck for their first glass of celebratory drink and capture the moment with spectacular views of Portsmouth’s famous harbour in the background. Ceremonies can take place on the Officers Half Deck with 100 loved ones, and couples can exclusively use the main deck for drink receptions and photographs. The space can then be transformed for wedding
breakfasts with 240 people, who will have access to the gun deck and exclusive use of the whole ship from 16.00 for evening receptions with 240 people.
The Captains Cabin is perfect for more intimate and bespoke ceremonies with 20 loved ones. Lovebirds can use the space for receptions, or pairs can pick The Wardroom for a fine dining experience. The venue offers virtual appointments and viewings as well as evening and weekend on-site appointments. The caterers will offer complimentary tastings to allow pairs to try delicious dishes and the team offers discounted accommodation rates with some of their partners in the Portsmouth and the Gosport area.
Nearlyweds get access to the venue’s bespoke list of preferred suppliers.
THE GRAND MAGAZINE, PRIDDY’S HARD GOSPORT
02392 891370
www.nmrn.org.uk/venue/portsmouth-venue-hire
Tucked away within a short drive or a few minutes boat journey from Portsmouth harbour, Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower is nestled inside an 18th-century armament depot with fantastic views across the Solent and the naval dockyard.
The stunning Grand Magazine, a gunpowder store originating from 1771, boasts a vaulted ceiling and beautiful Georgian wood floors –perfect for wow-factor weddings!
Overlooking Portsmouth Harbour, Priddy’s Hard has spectacular vistas of the harbour and the camber. Options include using the camber basin
and the inner sanctum, which offers the ideal spot for reception drinks, lawn games and picturesque photographs to treasure.
The space is perfect for ceremonies with 150 loved ones, standing receptions with 180 and dinner plus dancing for 150. Couples will receive exclusive use of the versatile space to let their imagination fly to create their dream wedding. It’s also equipped with lighting and sound systems for unforgettable parties. The team can divide this flexible space so pairs can move seamlessly from their ceremony to the reception.
Nearlyweds can arrange virtual or in-person viewings, and the team also offer a complimentary tasting session for couples try the delicious food. The staff will also share their recommended supplier list to help lovebirds plan their perfect day.
From a simple celebration to an elegant extravaganza, Macdonald Botley Park Hotel & Spa is the perfect setting for your special day.
Our Wedding packages are designed to suit all seasons and budgets. Our favourite package, the Whirlwind, is an all-Inclusive package and starts from only £6,495 for 50 day guests and 75 evening guests.
If you are newly engaged and looking for a fabulous venue to celebrate your wedding day, book an appointment with one of our wedding team who are waiting to turn your wedding dreams into reality. We host several open weekends throughout the year, where you can view our venue which will be fully dressed for a wedding. If you would like to discuss your wedding dreams with us, call now to book an appointment where we can talk wedding plans over a chilled glass of prosecco.
Book your wedding using this advert and we will give you complimentary canapes for your arrival reception and 5 Guest bedrooms for the night of your wedding.
(This offer applies to newly booked weddings only) Offer valid until 31st August 2023
Dorset was the perfect location for Charlotte and Andrew’s intimate wedding Images courtesy of Emma Frances Photography
Charlotte and Andrew first met while working in Austria during the ski season. They fell in love with the mountains and, of course, with each other while creating the most amazing memories.
Andrew proposed at the pair’s favourite waterfall in Scotland called The Hermitage. He was taking photos using a tripod and managed to capture the moment he popped the question.
The lovebirds set the wedding for July 2022 and created a fun day surrounded by loved ones.
Here Charlotte shares details about their special day…
The day was perfect, and we wouldn’t have changed anything.
Edwards Flowers created the beautiful bouquets using roses, avalanches, eucalyptus and thistles as a homage to Andrews’s Scottish heritage.
A gold Baroque-style easel designed by Winterborne Hire & Styling made up our table plan. The company also created the vintage copper-crafted Mr & Mrs Spence sign above the centre table.
Our reception occurred at my aunt and uncle’s house, which holds many happy childhood memories.
We picked All Saints Church in Poole for our ceremony as it’s where I used to attend growing up.
Andrew wore an ivory silk cravat, navy knee-high socks, a sporran, a handmade sgian dubh and black brogues.
Jess Robinson at Model Makeovers by Jess created beautiful looks for my bridal party and me. I felt memorised when I finished getting ready!
My Sophia Tolli dress combined classic and modern styles with off-theshoulder sleeves and pockets! A full-length veil with an embroidered floral trim and jewels finished my look.
We had personalised wooden napkin rings for our place names with ‘Lotty & Andrew 23/07/2022’ on the back.
We had a live band for the evening entertainment, which was a real hit with our guests with music for all generations – Andrew even got to do a solo on his electric guitar!
We went to Mallorca for two weeks for our honeymoon and enjoyed drinking cocktails in our favourite bar at the bottom of the beautiful Calvari Steps in Pollensa.
CHARLOTTE AND ANDREW’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK Church, www.allsaintsbh13.church | Reception venue, www.hartlandstud.co.uk | Marquee, www.camelotmarquees.com
Photographer, www.emmafrancesphoto.co.uk | Videographer, www.lovecrafted.co.uk | Bride’s dress and accessories, www.sarahjanebridal.com | Make-up, www.modelmakeovers.co.uk | Hair, Headlines 07816 480 775 | Bridesmaids’ dresses, www.victorialou.co.uk | Kilts, www.thekiltcompany.com | Cake, www.monbelamourcakecraft.co.uk | Flowers, www.edwards-flowers.co.uk Stationery, www.lovelee-design.com | Entertainment, www.theelevation.co.uk | Catering, www.dine-divine.co.uk | Trees and jasmine arches, www.whitestem.co.uk | Bespoke props and accessories, www.winterbornehireandstyling.co.uk | Crockery, glasses, tables, chairs, linen and oven, www.wessexcaterhire.co.uk
My uncle shared an iconic speech during the reception, which was particularly special as he also gave me away.
The bridesmaids wore multiway dresses with nude open toes heels.
An aerobatic air display took place during the drink’s reception, and pilot Patrick drew a beautiful heart in the sky!
Kirsty and Scott’s wedding at Parley Manor was one to remember Images courtesy of HS Photography
Scott first met Kirsty after moving into the house opposite her.
The pair exchanged numbers after introducing themselves, and their love story began just like that. “It’s hard to pinpoint what attracted us to one another as we had a connection from the moment we met,” says Kirsty.
Scott popped the question back in 2018. He planned a personal proposal as Kirsty didn’t like being the centre of attention and wasn’t good with crowds. So he filled their bedroom with flowers and presented Kirsty with a beautiful ring before asking her to become his wife.”
The pair exchanged vows on September 14th 2022, and they created the perfect day surrounded by loved ones. “To finally marry my best friend after waiting so many years through Covid and to call him my husband was amazing,” says Kirsty.
When finding the perfect setting for their big day, the pair fell in love with everything at Parley Manor. The property’s relaxing atmosphere and stunning surroundings stole their hearts, not to mention the fantastic staff who helped them plan their perfect wedding.
The ceremony took place in the pavilion located in the gardens, an intimate space with romantic white drapes, blooming beautiful florals and rose petals. As Kirsty made her grand entrance, emotions were flying around the room.
After the vows, the photographer captured stunning confetti shots! The couple spent months drying rose petals to make up bags of confetti and bought around five rose bushes to make this possible.
The reception occurred in a luxurious marquee, a blank canvas space that allowed the couple to highlight their colour scheme through the blush chair covers and flowers. They wanted the florals to match throughout the day and opted for artificial flowers to decorate their home afterwards. A hanging bamboo log decorated with flowers hung behind the top table for a photographic backdrop.
The pair had acrylic signs around the venue, including the table plan to help guests find their seats. Each centrepiece consisted of a silver hoop decorated with flowers resting on a wooden log and a hanging table number. The lovebirds gave each guest a little jar filled with seeds for favours, and lovebirds could plant them as a memory of the day. Little blush pink acrylic hearts on top of the champagne flutes made up the place names.
The pair opted for a barbecue for the catering, which consisted of different meats and sides. In the evening, they decided to have cold meats and cheeses for guests to graze on throughout the night. Loved ones also enjoyed the three-tiered cake with Victoria sponge, raspberry and banoffee flavours. Louise Katherine Cake Shop decorated the bake with buttercream and artificial flowers, which matched the rest of the wedding.
The bride wore a dress called Haven by the designer Madi Lane Bridal. Kirsty added detachable off-the-shoulder sleeves to bring her dream gown to life. She says, “I always dreamt of a flowy princess-style, and the details were breathtaking –especially the train!” She accessorised her look with a silver gem necklace, matching dangly earrings and a bracelet from her great-grandmother as her something old. Kirsty adds, “I felt so beautiful; it was amazing to see everything come together with the dress, make-up, hair and jewellery.”
The groom wore a pale grey suit with a silver tie and pink
buttonhole. The pair’s son wore a matching outfit as he wanted to look like his dad, while the groomsmen wore darker grey suits with blush ties and white buttonhole flowers to allow Scott to stand out.
The bridesmaids all looked beautiful in pale grey dresses; they each picked a style they were most comfortable in. For the evening, the pair got blush pashminas in case they got chilly, which they all used.
There were giant garden games outside during the evening reception to entertain the little ones, even though the adults seemed to enjoy them just as much as the children. The pair also hired a DJ with games and popular songs to start the party.
The bride and Scott agreed to have a first look with each other before the ceremony. However, Kirsty secretly arranged for the best man to surprise Scott by showing up wearing a wedding dress pretending to be the bride – Scott found it hilarious! The couple were both anxious before the ceremony, but all the nervousness melted away once they stood side-by-side at the altar. The bride comments, “The most memorable moment for me was when I was standing ready to go down the aisle when Scott turned around and bursting into tears. Instantly I started crying too – it was the most beautiful moment!”
One thing that made their day special was when the bride’s grandad gave her away. He has two daughters, but one eloped and he doesn’t remember giving Kirsty’s mum away as he suffered a stroke minutes after. It was amazing to give him another chance, and the bride wouldn’t have changed her decision for the world! He was absolutely beaming with pride and practised for months leading up to the big day so he wouldn’t have to use his walking stick.
The lovebird’s photographer and videographer made their day extra special by helping them relax in front of the camera. It was almost like they were guests on the day.
KIRSTY AND SCOTT’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK Venue, www.parleymanorweddings.co.uk | Photographer, www.hsphotography.co.uk | Bride’s dress, www.chameleonbride.co.uk | Hair, www.victorianightingalehair.co.uk | Make-up, www.charleehulbert | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Wed 2B| Cake, https://louisekatherinecakesshop.co.uk | Stationery, www.facebook.com/DazzlingDesignsByKirstyC | Entertainment, D & P Entertainment 07845 073 211 | Catering, www.merlinscatering.co.uk | Venue styling, www.simplyelegantoccasions.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ hair, www.facebook.com/zentherapyuk
Bridal Designers
Essense of Australia – Madi Lane - Enzoani Blue – Eva Lendel – Milla Nova - Morilee
Chameleon Bride: 904 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth BH7 6DL
Mother of the Bride
Designers: Veni Infantino - John Charles - Fely Campo - Irresistible - Condici
Chameleon Mother of the Bride: 893-895 Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth BH7 6AU
Tel: 01202 425721
info@chameleonbride.co.uk www.chameleonbride.co.uk
Katy and Joe had a romantic wedding at Burley Manor in the New Forest Images courtesy of Chloë Caldwell Photography
Katy and Joe met through mutual friends on a night out before going on their first date to a Chelsea football game and a Nando’s. From there, the couple slowly started to fall in love.
On a random Friday night, Joe told Katy that a parcel had arrived in her name. Balloons spelling out “Will you marry me”
flew to the ceiling as she opened it, and Joe dropped to one knee – it was a moment they would treasure forever. The pair set a date for June 23rd 2022, and planned the perfect wedding together.
Here Katy shares details about their special day…
Our number one goal was for our guests to have a fantastic day while staying true to ourselves.
Our wedding favours were small boxes of treats from the Burley Fudge Shop. We loved the homemade and local feel to them!
We picked Burley Manor as we loved the relaxing village and stunning surroundings. The main room was the perfect size for our romantic and intimate wedding breakfast.
We displayed all of the floral centrepieces in wooden trays so guests could take them home after the big day.
Our cake was a mixture of classic Victoria sponge, lemon and poppy seed flavours. Our flowers had a wild and relaxed style, which suited the venue perfectly.
We had two floral columns outside our church, which was transported to our reception venue to ensure nothing went to waste.
Betty McCaul Bridal Outlet added off-the-shoulder sleeves and a dainty waist belt to my gown. My lace-edged veil was handmade by my fantastic seamstress Sandra.
The bridesmaids wore floor-length dresses with flowy cap sleeves and button detailing, which perfectly complemented our wedding.
I was so excited to get married after getting ready that I arrived at the church five minutes early!
We had a fantastic DJ who played English and Greek music, which got everyone dancing!
Joe and the groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos with bow ties, but the groom wore a white buttonhole to stand out.
It was the happiest day of our lives, and we were surrounded by love.
All our suppliers were amazing and worked wonderfully together! They made the day run smoothly and make it extra special.
Waiting to walk down the aisle was a moment that stood out.
We went to the Greek island of Zakynthos for the perfect honeymoon.
There was a heatwave just before our wedding, but luckily the temperature dropped slightly on the day. It also lightly rained during the wedding breakfast, which cooled the air and is good luck!
Venue and catering, https://burleymanor.newforesthotels.co.uk | Photographer, www.chloecaldwell.co.uk | Bride’s dress, www.bettymccaul.com | Hair, www.instagram.com/bournemouthweddinghair and www.cwdhairbeauty.com | Make-up, www.instagram.com/sarahhurleymua | Groom’s suit, www.slaters.co.uk | Flowers, https://candysflowers.co.uk | Transport, www.premiercarriage.co.uk | Entertainment, www.hampshireeventdjs.co.uk | Styling, https://goldingevents.uk | Videography, https://filmcroft.wordpress.com | Cake, www.poppycolettecakedesign.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, ASOS | Jewellery, www.lovisa.co.uk Fudge, www.burleyfudge.co.uk
This glamorous shoot featured modern touches and luxurious styling
Images courtesy of Katie Rogers Photography
Hereat YHDW HQ, we’ve fallen in love with this stunning shoot captured at Somerley House. The stunning venue isn’t just popular for weddings but as a filming location for Netflix’s The Crown and Bridgerton – it’s no wonder why! The tranquil setting is home to Georgian touches, elegant styling and glorious gardens, providing a memorable backdrop to all events.
Sally at Luna And The Lane and Lee from Lee O’D Makeup & Hair worked together to create the stunning shoot, which focused on capturing the glamour of times gone by. The team showcased the traditional elements of the stately home while adding luxurious and edgy touches for more modern and bespoke couples.
THE DREAM TEAM
Concept, planning and styling, www.lunaandthelane.co.uk | Concept, hair and make-up, https://leeodmakeup.com | Venue, https://somerley.com/somerley-weddings | Photography, www.katierogersphotography.com | Videography, www.instagram.com/dalerookfilms | Flowers, www.instagram.com/willowandwisps | Gowns, www.instagram.com/charlie_brear and www.instagram.com/sassiholford from https://bridesofwinchester.co.uk | Shoes, www.instagram.com/harrietwildeshoes | Suit, www.gievesandhawkes.com | Groom’s accessories and styling, www.instagram.com/dappersuave | Bridal accessories, https://botiasaccessories.co.uk | Jewellery, www.baroquejewellery.com | Cake, https://annalewiscakes.com | Stationery, www.chloeainsleycreative.co.uk | Tableware and furniture, www.instagram.com/crystalhireltd | Models, www.instagram.com/poppyhaskell and www.instagram.com/johnny_thackway
The Duchess of Cornwall Inn provided the perfect backdrop to this stunning shoot
This stunning shoot at The Duchess of Cornwall Inn features stunning architect and wow-factor touches.
Local photographers Emma-Louise Winters and Lucy Farrant brought together a talented team of suppliers to capture their chic vision of a bigcity elopement while retaining their Dorset roots. They searched for a bridal designer to supply them with an alternative wedding gown. So Miriam Chitambo at Eliza May Atelier created this incredible suit, which encapsulated the vibe of the shoot entirely. The model’s hair and make-up were by the incredibly talented Andrea Pellegrini, accentuating her natural beauty while perfectly complementing the outfit.
Images courtesy of Emma Winters Photography
THE DREAM TEAM
Venue, www.duchessofcornwall.co.uk | Photographer and concept, www.emmawintersphotography.co.uk | Concept, www.lucyfarrantphotography.co.uk | Dresses, www.elizamayatelier.com | Accessories, www.opheliarenbridal.com | Hair and make-up, www.creative-artists.co.uk | Suits, www.ragtags.co.uk | Flowers, www.floralidesigns.co.uk | Stationery, www.instagram.com/theoxfordcalligrapher Timepieces, www.elliotbrownwatches.com | Prosecco, www.midasprosecco.com Videographer, www.instagram.com/drcfilmandphoto | Models, India and Matthew
Olivia says, “This four-tiered cake has bold florals, a white ganache finish, gold leaf detailing and a clear acrylic stand filled with flowers. Flavours included Biscoff and a classic red velvet.”
Angela says, “Vibrant spring colours were the brief for this wedding. It was a joy to mix the shades while using buttercream and fondant. I was given free rein on the floral placement too.”
Rachel says, “This stunning bake keeps it fresh with a buttercream and rings of fresh seasonal flowers. The rustic yet relaxed and magical look is perfect for those looking for a fairytale wedding.”
Olivia says, “The delicate marbled buttercream brought some light to a dark venue with roses and gold leaf detailing. The flavours included a cherry Bakewell and double chocolate with dark chocolate Swiss meringue buttercream.”
Angela says, “This four-tiered cake was given a modern twist using texture on the fondant tiers and a Z-shaped spacer covered in elegant flowers. I arranged the flowers to create the illusion of a floating tier with a burst of flowers.”
Rachel says, “This contemporary option has colour and a spring zing – not all wedding cakes have to be white. Choose a cake with personality and fun factors. Underneath the tiers of coloured fondant, your cake can be any flavour.”
Jane says, “This cake incorporates many different styles that appeal to various weddings. With a metallic sheen, royal iced stencilling, handmade sugar orchids and a silk ribbon, this cake shows how different elements can be incorporated together.”
Jane says, “This fabulous crown stand allowed this cake to take pride of place surrounded by a meadow of flowers. It’s a wonderful way to showcase real flowers with your cake in a foodsafe way for summer.”
Angela says, “This stunning four-tiered cake consists of buttercream-covered sponges with garlands of beautiful mixed florals and foliage. Getting crisp edges on buttercream cakes is not always as easy as it looks, but this cake turned out beautifully”
Rachel says, “For a more intimate wedding, why not choose a cake decorated with organic edible pressed flowers for a beautiful and detailed design? This bake will suit a small budget, while giving a real wow factor.”
Olivia says, “This classic design was finished in sharp-edged buttercream with elegant textured tiers, sugar paste roses and fresh ruscus. Flavours included a lemon and poppy seed sponge with fresh blueberries, filled with a handmade blueberry curd and vanilla bean Swiss meringue buttercream.”
Olivia says, “This cake featured a white buttercream finish with edible pearl detailing, some gold leaf, peonies and greenery. The flavours were vanilla bean, white chocolate and raspberry sponge with Swiss meringue buttercream and a handmade raspberry jam filling.”
Angela says, “This sea-themed cake was for a wedding with a cliff edge ceremony. The all-fondant bake allowed me to use moulds to create the grass and driftwood effects, and I was delighted with how it seamlessly worked together.”
Jane says, “This buttercream cake expresses itself in a fun and colourful way with no other additions to show that height, colour and attention to detail are enough to make a statement on your big day.”
OLIVIA BAKES
MON BEL AMOUR CAKE CRAFT RACHELLE’S OLIVIA BAKES
THE CAKE FAIRY LTD
THE CAKE FAIRY LTD
Angela says, “This stunning cake was created after the couple asked for a black cake with stripes and a gold drip. The bride completely transformed the venue with artificial flowers to bring it all together.”
https://nathanjamesfilmproductions.co.uk
Rachel says, “A beautiful creamy buttercream effect covered this tall and elegant cake. Decorated with creamy brown flowers and thistles, it has a subtle seasonal twist with an autumnal hint.”
Angela says, “This four-tiered cake has grooves through the buttercream, a sugar proteus flower and a rose spray. I couldn’t resist creating a cascade when I saw such vivid autumnal flowers!”
Rachel says, “This cake is covered in delicious buttercream and decorated with piped flowers. The effect is beautiful with rustic colours and muted tones – espeically with the buttercream cupcakes”
Jane says, “This cake used acrylic spacer tiers, which have been stencilled with royal icing, which is the perfect way to add height to a cake when catering for smaller numbers. The stencilling added delicate detail with a modern twist.”
Olivia says, “This cake was for an autumn wedding and was finished with a white chocolate ganache in bold shades with lots of textured stencil detailing, gold leaf and a flower meadow. The flavours included sticky toffee filled with toffee sauce and lashings of toffee Swiss meringue buttercream.”
Olivia says, “This beauty featured many dried florals, roses, shimmery edible wafer paper sails, ivory buttercream, gold leaf detailing and a gold drip. Flavours included spiced carrot sponge made with my signature gingerbread spice mix and a vanilla bean Swiss meringue buttercream.”
Jane says, “This cake has no flowers but is decorated with the family tartan, a classic way to incorporate tradition and integrate the tartan throughout the celebration. The pattern could be enhanced by adding sugar thistles and flowers replicating the bouquets.”
OLIVIA BAKES THE CAKE FAIRY LTD
MON BEL AMOUR CAKE CRAFT THE CAKE FAIRY LTD
RACHELLE’S
MON BEL AMOUR CAKE CRAFT RACHELLE’S
At the end of a long sweeping drive gently shaded by Canadian redwood and copper beech trees is the magnificent Rhinefield House which oozes period charm and character features. Its historic Grand Hall, contemporary Hurst Castle and acres of manicured lawns and outdoor space provide plenty of options for the ultimate fairy tale wedding with grandeur, elegance and modernity combined.
Please contact our dedicated weddings team on 01590 625625 or email us at rhinefieldhouse@handpicked.co.uk for more information.
With over a decade of experience in catering for incredible weddings, we are ready to deliver a first- class culinary adventure for your special day.
At Molecular Magic, we perfectly understand how important a role food plays during a wedding. We always take the time to listen to all of your needs and expectations, and so far, we have never disappointed a single client.
Jane says, “Sugar Flowers are still the gold standard when it comes to decorating cakes. With an abundance of beautiful modern sugar flowers, this cake demonstrates how to have a wedding cake full of flowers that are usually out of season in the winter.”
Angela says, “The brief for this beautiful cake was the popular movie Narnia. I used triangles of wafer paper, Christmas decorations, lights and a snow globe to really bring the theme to life – the result was stunning.”
Rachel says, “This simple fondanticed cake was decorated with delicate flowers – it’s a little nod to a slightly colder snowy day. Each tier was hiding a different wintery flavour like chocolate orange or rich spicy carrot cake.
Olivia says, “This small but perfectly formed cake was decorated with lots of dried hoops, twinkling lights and finished in an ivory white chocolate ganache. The edible floral detail, a rough-edged design and gold leaf emphasis drew the eye.”
Jane says, “This two-tiered cake has a timeless look with sleek lines, personalised monogram stencilling, and elegant sugar flowers. Perfect for a more intimate gathering with a crisp white feel.”
RACHELLE’S
Rachel says, “An ornate cake stand in gold with a striking band of edible gold leaf gives this little cake a touch of winter wonder and rich elegance. It’s dressed with flowers to match the wedding décor.”
Angela says, “With touches of champagne gold, this all-black cake with a hint of art-deco was a much talked about element at this wedding. If black is not your thing, this could easily be recreated using white fondant and red roses.”
Olivia says, “This modern cake featured a velvet navy textured tier, wafer paper and smooth buttercream. Elegant rice paper sails and a reclaimed hoop stand completed the look. Flavours included double chocolate and lemon meringue, filled with handmade zingy lemon curd and fresh lemon Swiss meringue buttercream.
CHECK OUT THE SUPPLIERS INVOLVED
Rachel Hill | Rachelle’s | www.rachelles.co.uk
Olivia Roper | Olivia Bakes | www.oliviabakes.co.uk
Jane Woolger | The Cake Fairy Ltd | www.the-cake-fairy.co.uk
Angela Turner | Mon Bel Amour Cake Craft www.monbelamourcakecraft.co.uk
MON BEL AMOUR CAKE CRAFT RACHELLE’S OLIVIA BAKES THE CAKE FAIRY LTD
The Bobby Pin has launched its 2023 collection of fashionable wedding accessories influenced by some of the year’s hottest trends. These dreamy finishing touches include intricately detailed hair vines, pins and combs in silver or gold metal finishes, plus a range of beautiful bridal earrings. Many designs are adorned with contemporary white clay and pretty porcelain blooms alongside delicate leaf and botanical motifs, while others feature luxurious pearl sprays or glistening crystal stones. To shop, visit https://thebobbypin.co.uk
This special occasion smock is from the new collection by Smock London. The dresses, which are perfect for flowergirls, are made from the finest fabrics. Hidden within the exquisite designs are secret messages and symbols including a row of hearts, a different flower in each dress plus two eternity symbol motifs symbolizing longevity and good luck. To shop, visit www.smocklondon.com
River Island’s first wedding occasion collection has launched offering a selection of mix-and-match bridesmaid dresses and flowergirl styles. There’s a range of silhouettes in a dreamy colour palette and fashionable fabrics include soft satin and tulle. There’s also stylish suiting for men and boys. To shop, visit www.riverisland.com
Claire
London-based jewellery brand Estella Bartlett has launched a personalised necklace collection where customers can select their favourite chain and charm combination. The gold and silver-plated chains start from just £17 and there’s a free engraving service available on selected charms with the option of birthstone pendants, lettered charms, and engraved discs. To shop, visit https://estellabartlett.com
Luxe jewellery brand LYNA London offers glamorous yet affordable pieces from just £18. Their best-selling sterling silver Serenity Rings in white and pink, £35, proved to be so popular that customers can now buy a necklace to match, with a wide variety of colours available, https://lynalondon.com
These pearl-encrusted shoes, £130, are from the latest wedding collection by https://aldoshoes.co.uk/ collections/bridal-shoes
Dainty London has created a special bridal edit of fine jewellery pieces, from cocktail rings boasting semi-precious stones to dainty pendants and delicate earrings. Many items can be personalised with initials or important dates. To shop, visit www.daintylondon.com
Luxury British accessories and personalised gifting brand Elizabeth Scarlett has launched a selection of personalised velvet pouches embroidered with ‘Bride’ and ‘Bridesmaid’, £35 each. Available in coral bloom (pictured) or sage olive, the pouches are the gift that keeps on giving because the brand raises money for wildlife with every purchase with 2% of Elizabeth Scarlett’s annual sales donated to the preservation of keystone species. To shop, visit www.elizabethscarlett.com
These bridal sandals with an oversized bow at the back, £275, are from the latest collection by US brand www.naturalizer.co.uk that has just launched in the UK.
These crystal-encrusted shoes are from the latest bridal collection by www.jimmychoo.com/en/ bridal-boutique
Ridley reveals the latest bridal news, buys and launches
Ermin dress by, www.airebarcelona.com/en-gb
Flounce-hem dress by www.davidsbridal.co.uk
Midi-length dress by www.adriannapapell.com
Krystyna dress by www.monsoon.co.uk/wedding-occasion/the-bride/wedding-dresses
Overlay dress by www.verawangbride.com/gb
Scarlette dress by www.millialondon.com
Baloe from the Blissful Collection by Le Papillon, www.modeca.com
Style no 05-B from The White Edit collection by www.pronovias.com
Fennel dress by www.annageorgina.co.za
Ruby dress by www.dcey.co.uk
Isla dress by www.josephinescott.co.uk
Claudia dress by https://loveandlibertybridal.com
Maisie dress by www.halfpennylondon.com
Celony dress by www.rosaclara.es/en-gb
Knee-length dress by www.quizclothing.co.uk
Take inspiration from summer’s most anticipated movie release with fun, flirty styles plus something pink for bridesmaids
www.pronovias.com
Nikkie Tutorials swears
by Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Genius, and what’s good enough for Nikkie is good enough for me!
This multi-benefit brow serum that noticeably improves hair texture, manageability and encourages the appearance of fullerlooking brows, blends six rejuvenating ingredients that work now and later to create a look you’ll love. Think a smoother, softer, tamer, fullerlooking brow ready to frame your gorgeous eyes as your new spouse gazes into them and says ‘I do’. Find it on the company’s website www.anastasiabeverlyhills.co.uk for £61.
I recently attended a masterclass with Super Facialist’s resident skincare expert, Charlotte Connoley, which posed the question: do we really know our skin type? If like me your answer is somewhat hesitant, it may interest you to know that there’s an easy way to find out. Charlotte suggests simply splashing your face with water and leaving it for 20-25 minutes. If it feels prickly afterwards, you have sensitive skin; if the water’s gone, then it’s dry; if the skin is tight, it’s dehydrated; and if it feels perfectly comfortable you’re blessed with a normal skin type. Whatever you discover, Super Facialist has a range of products specifically tailored to each type, recognising this can change throughout the year. This allows you to affordably create your own individual skincare routine to support your skin throughout the seasons.
Having learned that my skin is dehydrated, I tried the divine Rosehip Hydrate Calming
Creamy Cleanser (£9, www.lookfantastic.com) and my annoying dry patches have been banished!
A multi-use bronzer, blusher and highlighter, ICONIC London’s new Kissed By The Sun is an all-in-one cheek glow product allowing us all to harness the mystical power of the sun! Available in five different shades its pearlescent pigments disperse a wash of radiant shine, while its hybrid powder-meets-cream texture sits beautifully on the skin. Find it for £26 online at www.iconiclondoninc.com
Beauty editor Kelly Andrews brings you the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be
Fans of Dr.PAWPAW, take note! Staying true to the brand’s environmental values its new skincare range, YOUR gorgeous SKIN, presents a vegan, streamlined collection of nine accessible, multi-tasking solutions suitable for all skin types complete with an innovative, trademarked formulation – papayaluronic. This new concept in skincare provides the nourishing and soothing effects of papaya extract, teamed with eight hyaluronic acids, which absorb into all five layers of the skin for instant, long-lasting hydration. Available at www.lookfantastic.com from £4.99.
Finally, a potent serum containing plant-based retinol alternatives. After years of research and testing, Tatcha has developed its most powerful wrinkle-smoothing formula producing retinol-like results, adding moisture back into the skin and even soothing irritation. Unlike vitamin A derivatives, which need to be started slowly in order to build up a tolerance, The Silk Serum is made to use whenever you want, up to twice daily right from day one. No build up time or complicated skin-cycling necessary. Find it at www.tatcha.co.uk and Space NK for £98.
NEOM products are all designed to be small, but impactful tools for your wellbeing toolkit. Helping you de-stress during those tense moments encountered while wedding planning is the new Calming Pen (£20). The ideal on-the-go solution, offering micro-moments of calm and composure. Hero essential oils include lavender, chamomile and sweet orange. Simply roll onto pulse point whenever you’re in need of a moment of calm. And breathe...
Visit www.neomorganics.com
Supergoop! has finally made it to Europe. The brand has built an enviable reputation as the expert in SPF over the course of its 15 years of innovative product development and feel-good formulas that make wearing that oh-so important sun protection every day, a pleasure. Since its launch in 2005, the brand’s mission has been to challenge myths about SPF, including the perception that it’s a seasonal product, making wearing sunscreen an accessible ritual for all. I love Unseen Sunscreen SPF30 with its invisible, natural finish (£32, 50ml). Explore the range at www.sephora.co.uk
KAYALI’s new fragrance, Yum Pistachio Gelato, 33 Eau de Parfum Intense, is a gourmet’s dream. When I heard about it, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to wear it or eat it! The sweet scent offers a delicious explosion of irresistible notes including creamy pistachio gelato, voluptuous whipped cream, roasted hazelnut, sweet rum, fluffy marshmallow, and fizzy cotton candy. Fabulously wearable, this truly yummy fragrance charms with a scent trail that’ll have you smelling good enough to eat! Available at www.cultbeauty.co.uk, for £79 (50ml) or £107 (100ml).
It’s the make-up look that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into summer or onto a beach; it’s the vibe of having a freshly bronzed complexion, kissed by the sun ‒ sounds perfect for a summer wedding day doesn’t it? Renowned for pioneering the look in 2018, Nudestix has now launched The Sunkissed Nude Story featuring healthy bronze, fresh blush and kissable lip shades in the brand’s award-winning creamy formulas. Shop the range at Selfridges, Boots, Harrods, Cult Beauty, The Hut Group, and Sephora.
Palette London has all of 2023’s big-hitting trends sewn up with its stunning array of nail colours. From pastel lilacs and yellows to vivid magenta tones, there’s a polish to complete your look and complement your wedding palette! Every glossy nail paint, base coat and variety of top coats are vegan, cruelty-free, halal and made using a minimum of 70 per cent plant-based ingredients. What’s more, the formulations go beyond offering professional quality, they also strengthen while they colour, improving the natural health of nails. Priced at £8 each, you can shop ‘til you drop at https://palettelondon.com
Known for innovative skincare technology, premium Spanish spa brand Germaine de Capuccini has launched its new Timexpert Hydraluronic, which redefines and smooths the skin from within, restoring its plumpness. The exclusive formula combines the power of hyaluronic acid with the brand’s patented HLG nanopolyer, to create an innovative product set to benefit a wide range of skin concerns, not least preventing signs of premature ageing, including fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and dehydration. Discover the range (from £54.30) at https://germaine-de-capuccini.co.uk
Feeling the pressure to get everything right and done on time is inevitable when it comes to wedding planning. With a seemingly endless todo list and preparing to expect the unexpected, the sense of overwhelm can quickly take over. This, in turn, results in its own issues such as impaired sleep, digestive issues, skin breakouts, low mood and anxiety. While it isn’t helpful to tell someone planning their big day to simply not stress, thinking about ways to support a stressed body and maintain overall good health, can help prevent some of these unwanted symptoms and make the whole process more manageable. Read on to discover five ways to support yourself against stress in the run up to your wedding day, courtesy of Minal Sudra and Elizabeth Andrews at Wedding Wellness...
One of the most underrated activities when it comes to your health is a good night’s sleep. Quality sleep isn’t purely about how many hours of shut-eye you get, but also about being mindful of eating and lifestyle habits, and how they can affect rest. When we consistently sleep well, our brains and bodies are more resilient, making us better at healing, fighting infection, concentrating and making decisions.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine in the run up to bed time, as both disrupt the brain’s natural restorative activity and block deep sleep, which is key to optimal health.
Exercise is great for physical health but
movement is just as important for our mental health, and ability to handle stress. Our bodies react to stress in the same way they might if encountering a bear in the wilderness! Allowing them the chance to move and release the build up of tension that comes from being in a stressful state, helps them to calm down and return to a state of normal. Movement in any shape or form also encourages deep or mindful breathing, which is another brilliant way of reducing stress and calming the mind and body. Aim for at least 20-30 minutes of your movement of choice per day.
The reason stress is so harmful is that it causes damage to the body known as oxidative stress. This can result in aches and pains, slow healing and a higher chance of catching a cold. Eating foods that help reduce this damage, are commonly referred to as antiinflammatory, as they promote healing and calm the stress response, aiding everything from gut and hormonal health to improving mood. Some of the best anti-inflammatory foods to include in your meals are: berries, ginger, garlic, dark green leafy vegetables, oily fish, nuts and seeds, avocado and wholegrains.
When you have an endless to-do list, it’s easy to assume every spare moment should be used to work through as much of it as possible. Taking
proper breaks and using that time to actually relax, will calm your otherwise overworked nervous system and help your body return to a rested state. Use those moments to distract yourself with something calming, such as music, conversation or a proper lunch break away from a screen. Not only will this help reduce how stressed you feel, you will digest meals better and feel less fatigued too.
It might sound obvious, but one of the best things you can do for your health is to eat wholesome, balanced meals at a regular time each day. The body loves habit and thrives on routine, so regular meals will help nourish and support a stressed body. Making sure you’re eating foods that include complex carbs will help you maintain energy, support normal body function and improve general health. Look for wholegrains and vegetables; protein like fish, chicken, beans and pulses; and healthy fats such as oily fish, nuts, seeds, avocado and olive oil.
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
The Alverbank Hotel is a stunning seaside boutique hotel with views across to the Isle of Wight and nestled amongst the beautiful fauna of Stanley Park. Built in 1842 it has seen its fair share of happy moments and has a rich & royal history. The Grade II* listed, licensed building lends itself to celebrating special occasions.
The sea views all year round, provide a beautiful sense of serenity & the interior of the hotel gives a feeling of warmth & happiness, especially during winter with log-fires throughout.
The idea for Angela Langford as a brand started when Angela was working in a stressful, pressured, corporate job in Gibraltar, from which she was eventually made redundant. She knew she wasn’t meant for that world any longer, and set out to create her own business based on her passions. “I was travelling less, which meant I couldn’t easily get my favourite skincare from the UK anymore,” Angela says. “So, I started making my own products for personal use, with no intention of turning it into a career.” But, having discovered a love for the whole process, she did a lot of research and eventually decided to turn her new-found passion into a business, sharing her products with others. She went on to study cosmetic formulation in depth, which in turn opened up a completely new world for her.
Beauty editor Kelly Andrews chatted to Angela recently to find out more about the brand and its products, as well as how they can help you feel skin confident for your wedding day, complete with that gorgeous bridal glow.
possible I use glass jars and bottles, but this isn’t always compatible with the product. If a container is plastic, I use post-consumer recycled packaging. This is an area I work hard to constantly improve on, and over the years, I’ve made a great deal of progress.
Using high quality, concentrated products can help too, because you don’t need to purchase so often. Keeping your routine simple and using up what you do buy can also help.
What are your favourite skincare ingredients that you recommend we look out for?
This is a bit like being asked who your favourite child is, or in my case, favourite pet! It’s a tough one to answer, but I think oils rich in skin-loving omegas and essential fatty acids are vital for our skin’s health. Rosehip, chia seed, argan, and evening primrose are in a lot of my products and I always try to source organic versions.
I’m a huge fan of active plant ingredients too. My current favourites are electric daisy and sea buckthorn. The former has been referred to as nature’s botox and can help to smooth, firm and tighten our skin; whereas sea buckthorn is like a superfood for it. It has so many amazing benefits –it’s calming, soothing, repairing and can help with cell regeneration. Rich in vitamin C and anti-oxidants, it’s a skincare powerhouse, which is why I use it in my best-selling face oil, Bloom & Glow.
People are becoming more conscious of what’s in their skincare products as well as how its produced. How can we ensure our beauty products are as harmless to the environment as they are good for our skin?
I’m a very small-scale producer and I make everything myself in small batches. This means, there’s very little wastage and the products aren’t stored for months on end in a warehouse. I also use organic ingredients wherever available as these are also better for the environment.
We’re primarily an online brand, so I don’t use any outer packaging, and this small change can help to make a positive difference. Where
What would you recommend as the best approach for a bride or groom concerned about sensitive skin in the run up to the big day? Don’t introduce a new product to your skincare routine too close to your big day. Also, avoid any treatments or introducing new make-up. If you have regular facials, that’s fine, but going for something different a week beforehand may upset your skin. If you’re having your make-up applied by a professional, make sure you discuss this with them during your trial and ask to use your own make-up products if you’re worried.
Can you suggest a skincare regime that will ensure skin is in tip-top condition, providing the perfect base for a W-day make-up artist? Cleanse every morning and evening. A double cleanse with a balm or
“My aim is to make people feel great about their skin no matter their age. When we feel good about our skin, we feel better about ourselves in general, so my goal is just that – to help you feel great.”
–
Angela Langford
oil in the evening is great too. The first will remove the make-up and SPF, the second is to cleanse the skin. Unless you’re very sensitive or have rosacea, I’d recommend using an exfoliator twice a week too in the evening after cleansing. Look for something with fruit acids (AHAs), which help to slough away dead, dull skin.
A once-a-week brightening face mask will really help to liven up your complexion and even out skintone. As long as you introduce them a few months in advance of your wedding, a mask the night before is wonderful. It will help to soften and smooth your skin ready for flawless make-up application and it’ll help you to relax too. Also, be sure to moisturise daily, keep skin hydrated with a tonic, and by drinking plenty of water.
Finally, if there’s one thing I think can make an enormous difference, it’s using a face oil. Even if your skin is oily, it can really help and there’s one out there for everyone. Brightening and balancing versions are wonderful, and you can use a drop after your make-up has been applied for extra luminosity.
What would you suggest to those worried about congested or oily skin and the effect this will have on their overall make-up look?
I always come back to cleansing as the key to great skin, yet it’s often the step people either skip entirely or skimp on. Cleansing wipes are a real no-no for me, they just move dirt around your skin and don’t cleanse properly. They aren’t great for the environment either, so I’d really avoid these.
The other important thing, particularly when you have oily skin, is to choose balancing products. Often, those aimed at this particular skin type are harsh and strip skin of its natural oils. This doesn’t solve the problem though, in fact it has the opposite effect, making your skin panic into producing even more oil.
It may surprise you to know that oil isn’t the enemy, being oil-free can be though. I even advise people with oily skin to use a facial oil in the evening. It can take time to get used to, and might take longer to even consider, as it does sound counter-intuitive! The key is to use the right
ones – light, easily absorbed and balancing are what you need. Look for ingredients including rosehip, kiwi, thistle (also known as safflower) and jojoba, all great for oily, congested and combination skin. Massage a couple of drops into clean skin every night. Plus, if you aren’t sensitive to them, essential oils can also help to clear congested skin. Look out for palamarosa, cypress, bergamot, lemon, lemongrass and rose geranium.
When is the best time to make changes/improvements to a skincare regime in preparation for a wedding?
It can take time for our skin to adjust to new products and new ingredients. When you try something new, it’s not unusual for your skin to become dry or for you to experience a little redness or even breakouts. This is just our skin adjusting. It does depend on the individual and also what products your skin is used to, but to be safe, I’d give yourself at least two months to introduce changes and new products. This also leaves time for you to see the results.
I use either Clean Sweep Cleansing Balm, and I Can See Clearly Now Make-up Remover. I then follow with a second cleanse using Sweet Cheeks Non-Foaming Face Wash. I exfoliate a few times a week using Scrub Up Exfoliator and use Look on the Bright Side Face Mask once a week – mixing it with some Freshen Up and a few drops of Bloom & Glow. In the day I’m never far away from a bottle of Freshen Up Hydrating Skin Tonic – I love to use it when my skin needs a hydrating boost. Most of the time I use A Little Lift Serum followed by Bloom & Glow face oil in the day and at night Bloom & Glow or Repair & Renew face oil on its own
I just love face oils and the benefits they have on our skin.
Check out www.angelalangford.com, and call 01348 811 711 for free, tailored skincare advice. You can also order a free skincare sample pack.
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
Award-winning hair stylist specialising in luxury styles with texture, definition & movement.
A minimum booking fee of £400. Depending on your ceremony time and bridal party size an assistant may be required to ensure everyone is ready in time. This will be an additional £100.
Bride £250 Includes trial Bridal Party £80Flower Girls (under 12s)
Contact for details
*Please note Sabrina does not offer blow dries
Sabrina covers Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset, UK but is available for destination weddings. For travel over 5 miles from Chandlers Ford, Hampshire, 60p per mile to and from destination inclusive, will be added to the price.
You’ll be in safe hands with Sabrina’s professional and calming personality, she will make you feel completely at ease and confident that the end result will have you feeling incredible!
WWW.LOVEISINTHEHAIRBYSABRINA.CO.UK
sabrina@loveisinthehairbysabrina.co.uk
@loveisinthehairbysabrina
From sophisticated and subtle to all out Bridal Glam. Makeup is super personal and should fit you, and how you imagine yourself on your wedding day. Bridal packages available - including trials and consultations. Feel free to get in touch with any questions or to get a bespoke quotation contact@jordanmakeupartist.co.uk
JORDANMAKEUPARTIST.CO.UK
jordanmakeupartist jordan_makeupartist
I work with you from day one to make sure the final photos are meaningful to you, a true reflection of you and your personalities, with emphasis on emotion rather than poses.
Leaving you to relax and enjoy yourself as I capture the fabulous celebrations of the day!
I can’t wait to start planning your incredible story, so get in touch today on 07539 500 603 or email southcoastpictures@hotmail.co.uk
www.scpweddingphotography.co.uk
SUMMER LOVIN’
I need some ideas for a bridal hairstyle that can be worn up for my late-summer wedding – what can you suggest?
For late summer weddings, brides want a showstopping style for their big day. Go for an ultra-modern and sleek knot bun with a statement side fringe, a glamorous low ponytail with a wave or a mid-height curly textured bun or French twist. All these styles are trending and will indeed wow your guests! Also, consider taking your style even further by choosing the right accessory. You could go for real flowers, a headband or a bow comb – all are super modern and popular choices for 2023 brides.
Remember to always book your bridal hairstylist based on their portfolio of work and pick your style based on their repertoire. Work with the team to choose a style that suits the dress and theme. That way, you’ll look back at photos and love them for years to come.
Sabrina Buck | Love Is In The Hair By Sabrina www.loveisinthehairbysabrina.co.ukOur summer wedding is fast approaching; how can I get my skin big-day ready?
It’s never too early to start having a good skin care routine, which ensures your make-up stays in place all day.
A typical morning routine should include a cleanser, toner and targeted serums – think anti-ageing and brightening products. Follow with an eye cream, moisturiser and an SPF. Remove make-up before applying a cleanser, toner, targeted face oil, night cream and a lash serum in the evenings. A weekly face mask treatment is relaxing and needed for a busy bride. A great all-rounder is an exfoliating mask to help keep your skin soft and smooth by buffing away dead skin cells to help products absorb better. A monthly seven-day Vitamin C treatment will give you brighter and smoother-looking skin.
My favourite way to ensure healthy skin, hair and nails is a daily liquid marine collagen supplement, which combines marine collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid and acerola Cherry (derived vitamin C) to help smooth skin texture while reducing the appearance of pores and wrinkles.
Becky Stratman | Eyedentity Beauty www.eyedentitybeauty.co.ukWe’re both a bit camera shy and anxious about photos on our wedding day, but we also want a lovely album to look back on. Can you offer us some advice?
As a documentary wedding photographer, my main focus revolves around capturing moments without you even realising; this is especially perfect for those who are a bit conscious in front of the camera. I often show my couples the photos taken, which immediately helps increase
With so many different materials available for our wedding bands, how do we know the difference and benefits between them all to make the right choice for our wedding day?
Since the bride’s wedding ring metal should be the same as her engagement ring, choosing a wedding ring can sometimes be easier than expected for the bride! However, the groom has a little bit more to choose from. The most popular wedding ring metals are:
9ct or 18ct white gold
White gold is a modern twist on traditional yellow gold. It’s made up of lighter alloys and is plated in rhodium, which is what gives it its bright ‘white’ and chrome-like shine. It’s chosen as a cheaper alternative to platinum or palladium, but it does need plating every couple of years or so (depending on the wearer).
9ct or 18ct gold
Also known as yellow gold, this metal is very traditional and 18ct gold costs more than 9ct because it contains double the amount of pure gold. A shiny, bright yellow metal that symbolises the light of the sun.
9ct rose gold
Rose gold was popular for lavish jewellery pieces in the 1920s, and this blush metal is returning to fashion. Rose gold looks beautiful on those with olive skin because of the pink, rosy tones and it matches other rose gold and yellow gold jewellery pieces very well.
Platinum
Arguably one of the most luxurious wedding ring metals, platinum is a very sought-after, strong and precious metal. It has anti-tarnish properties, so it keeps its beautiful bright shine without needing to be replated (unlike white gold).
Palladium
Palladium is a strong, light and durable metal that’s often chosen for its hypo-allergenic properties. Part of the platinum family but a cheaper
their confidence. Everyone is much more relaxed a couple of shots later. Most people don’t like having their photos taken, so slowly building selfconfidence is vital to getting perfect wedding portraits. I also offer prewedding shoots where possible, which not only adds an extra comfort level for lovebirds but an additional set of images to add to the album!
Robbie Khan | Robbie Khan Photography www.robbiekhan.co.ukalternative, it’s more precious than gold or titanium.
Titanium
Discovered in Cornwall in the 18th-century, titanium has a slight natural grey colour to it. It’s a wedding ring option if you want something light, strong and hard-wearing. Titanium is much cheaper than other metals like palladium and platinum, so it works well if you’re on a budget. If you do a lot of hands-on tasks or work in a manual labour environment, it could be the ideal wedding ring for you!
Natasha House | F.Hinds | www.fhinds.co.uk
Our wedding planner has suggested we hire a celebrant for our big day. Should we book one, and what are the benefits? In short, your celebrant will do everything to ensure your ceremony goes as smoothly as possible. They’ll help you create lasting memories with your own words of promise while getting to know you both to reflect your personalities into your ceremony. They’ll work with you to share personal touches and special words with your partner because you’re not restricted in what you say, unlike a clergy member or registrar.
You can hold your ceremony anywhere with a celebrant, like a beach or a back garden, and they should arrive early to ensure you have everything needed. When guests arrive, they’ll direct loved ones to the ceremony setting before the wedding party walks up the aisle.
Karen Hopwood | Coast Ceremonies
https://coastceremonies.squarespace.com
We’re having a marquee wedding and would love to include florals throughout the space. What can you suggest? The beauty of flowers quickly plays a special part in your wedding day as blooms transform a space while bringing a venue to life. Bringing the outdoors in is an epic way to experience joy throughout your wedding. Having a statement arch, romantic columns or showstopping pedestals are the perfect entrance to entice guests into the marquee.
Creating an atmosphere creates a story. Walking underneath floating ladders, beams and artistic overhead structures covered in foliage is a stunning way to build a vision.
Your venue stylist can decorate the tables with high and low flower arrangements on delicate stands or ceramic bowls to give height and fullness without restricting the vision of guests. These arrangements can be filled with colour, foliage or dried materials to make your dream a reality.
Bud vases are a beautiful way to fill spaces on tables between beautiful candles, napkins and sharing platters to add a pop of colour without taking up too much space. It’s also a great way to decorate guest book tables, bar areas or cake tables.
The sense of smell is essential when it comes to planning a wedding. Marquees can be amazing for holding the scent of fresh eucalyptus, the goodness of sweet peas and those delicious roses.
Jessica Fossey| Ume | https://umefloraldesign.co.uk
My wife-to-be and I are looking for entertainment to keep our guests happy throughout our special day. Do you have any suggestions?
A fantastic way to keep your guests occupied and entertained on your wedding day is by hiring a magical host; this is someone who will look after your day and keep everything running smoothly while entertaining your guests simultaneously.
There’s always a lull at a wedding, usually during the drinks reception after couples are whisked off for photos. It’s a wonderful time to have a magician walk around your guests, creating memories with incredible close-up magic. A magician can also help break the ice as evening guests arrive too.
As well as performing magic, a host will make all your announcements throughout the day, such as your big entrance into the wedding breakfast. They’ll also ensure everyone is in the correct place for those crucial moments and will be happy to help with any issues that might arise on the day. But most importantly, the host will create magical memories on your special day for all the right reasons.
David Major | David Major Magical Host www.davidmajor.co.uk
Whenit comes to a wedding day, whether you’re the bride or a guest, the million-dollar question for everyone is about what to wear. For the nearlyweds, as they are the stars of the show, they likely have at least an idea of what their big-day look will be like. But for the rest of the bridal party, where do you begin? First and foremost, the venue setting and theme of the day are paramount. A long flowing gown for bridesmaids will look out of place in a field for a tipi wedding; similarly, the mother-of-the-bride in a tropical print summer dress may stand out against a stately home wedding with a Bridgerton-inspired theme. Another thing to consider is the weather; we British folk like to moan about it, and rightly so, because how many sunny days do we have each year? The season and the inclement weather will dictate the colour palette – no one wears pastel yellows in winter – but also your accessory choice.
As much as we all love our friendship groups dearly, many personalities are grouped together. The same goes for fashion styles; we all have bits we love about our bodies and bits we don’t. The best thing a wedding couple can do to make their bridal and groom’s party happy is to be relaxed and open-minded about the outfits you want them to wear –everyone will be happy and enjoy the day!
Grooms and groomsmen, and the fathers of the newlyweds, are taking more pride in their wedding appearance and enjoying the shopping just as much as the leading ladies. Men’s fashion has come a long way in the last decade, with greater acceptance of breaking wedding traditions and protocols. The bespoke tailored look: if you’ve never had a professionally fitted suit, your wedding day is the occasion. The perfect fit is essential for comfort and looking good in wedding photos. You can add little personalised elements, such as your initials and wedding date, stitched into the lining.
The mothers of the bride and groom will feel under the spotlight along with the rest of the bridal party. This added pressure can be overwhelming as they may have worn occasionwear only for a few years. These factors can strain what should be an enjoyable experience as the bride/ groom tries to make them feel as reassured as possible and offer support and advice. As with everyone else on the day, they too should feel comfortable and themselves, leading to a happy and confident mother! Firstly, sophistication is key, but this doesn’t mean being frumpy! If you love your clothes, go for a bold colour or striking pattern but keep it demure by avoiding low-cut necklines or a short hem so you can look back on the photos for years with no regrets.
When did your passion for fashion start?
I’ve always had a huge interest in fashion and interior design. I used to make and sell my jewellery in the original shop in Chichester before falling in love with the boutique and eventually taking it over. I started selling casual clothing and party dresses, which grew and evolved into the Mousetrap we love today. We are home to one of Hampshire’s biggest collections of wedding gowns, bridalwear, and prom/ evening dresses.
What do you offer the wedding party?
Mousetrap has been in business for more than 50 years, but I have owned and successfully run the boutique for 27 years. We pride ourselves on being a one-stop-shop for all things bridal! We can dress you and your entire bridal party, from your gorgeous flowergirls to your elegant mother. We can match your groomsmen’s ties and pocket squares with the beautiful bridesmaids’ dresses!
What trends can we expect this summer?
Expect to see lots of florals for Summer ’23! Plenty of gorgeous sleeve options will be for ethereal and whimsical weddings. There will always be pearls and lots of glitter!
What is your favourite part of the job?
Our favourite part of the job is creating life-long memories for our brides and their loved ones. Our ultimate goal is to make this a joyous and meaningful experience for all. We love getting to know you and your bridal party, so we can help create looks for everyone involved in the wedding to make them feel comfortable and amazing.
What’s advice that you can share with couples?
It’s hard to try and please everyone, so remember why you’re getting married if you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Celebrate your love, and don’t compromise on things that make your day even more special. Do what makes you happy! Check out: www.mousetrapdressboutique.co.uk
When did your passion for fashion start?
I went into a creative frenzy after breaking the arm off my doll at the age of seven and decided she needed some new clothes – I’ve never stopped sewing!
What do you offer the wedding party?
The company started in 2019 with bespoke children’s clothing for special occasions. Since then, the business has continued to grow, offering bespoke gowns and a small collection of flowergirl dresses. Each piece is designed by me and manufactured in Britain by a lovely small company in Somerset, keeping our carbon footprint low. We also continue to offer special occasion clothing for boys too!
What trends can we expect this summer?
It’s all about keeping it simple this summer! Choose a plain colour, such as white or ivory, and add a playful shade or texture. Adding a pop of colour could be achieved using a contrasting sash, big bow, or crown headpiece. Choose a white/ivory dress and add a textured polka dot organza skirt or silk fabric with embroidered flowers.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
I love designing and helping brides with ideas before sewing a little stitch of magic into the garment, sometimes sewing secret messages inside for a special surprise on the day!
What’s one piece of advice that you can share with couples?
If you’re buying a flowergirl dress, choose something that isn’t too fussy so that it can be worn again to parties, family lunches and gatherings. Check out: https://dawnclarkedesigns.co.uk
Whether it’s a hypoallergenic, stackable set of stainless steel rings for your sister, a sterling silver pendant necklace for your mum, or a pearl pendant necklace just for you, Tocara has it all. Our latest collections will dazzle you! Tocara offers nothing but perfection.
Clairey’s Tocara. vickersclaire@icloud.com
www.tocara.com/en-gb/Claire
Mother of the Bride & Groom at
Hampshire and Dorset’s largest stockist of Mother of the Bride and Groom.
To celebrate being in business for 30 years we are offering a special promotion for the month of May. Any full priced outfit will receive a 50% discount on any matching millenary and many incredible outfits with 30% off.
We are also pleased to announce we have just won Guides For Brides National Customer Service Awards for the 5th consecutive year.
We have over 1000 dresses in store to take away with you on the day so you can be sure of lots of choice in sizes 6-30. Please contact us for your 1-1 appointment with one of our friendly knowledgeable style experts.
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri & Sat 10-4pm
Closed Wed & Sun Please email info@charismaoffawley.co.uk or phone 02380 894500.
A great dress doesn’t happen by accident, It happens with an appointment at Charisma
School Road, Fawley, Southampton, SO45 1EA www.charismaoffawley.co.uk
When did your passion for fashion start?
My passion for fashion started when I was in school. I studied fashion and textiles in college and was going to continue my education in fashion, but I decided that I wanted to earn some money. I returned to my fashion career six years ago when I found millinery.
What do you offer the wedding party?
CW Hats and Accessories has been open for three years, but I have been doing millinery for six years. We offer bespoke unique hats and fascinators to match your outfit, including bridal and bridesmaids’ headpieces. We also stock wedding shoes, pashminas, clutch bags and wedding gifts.
What trends can we expect this summer?
The trends this summer are hot pinks and purples as well as white. We also expect to see sculptured and large-brimmed headpieces.
What is your favourite part of the job?
I love seeing customers’ faces when they first try on the headpiece I made; some have even cried tears of happiness.
What’s advice that you can share with couples?
Treasure every moment as life is too short!
Check out:
https://cwhatsandaccessories.co.uk
When did your passion for fashion start?
I have always loved clothes from a young age. My mum has pictures of me trying to walk in her high heels when I was four years old! I spent my teens sketching pictures of evening dresses and have always loved the glamour of going to special events where you can really get a chance to dress up. Working with mums and brides to find the most special dresses is a real dream.
What do you offer the wedding party?
Chameleon is celebrating 39 years of dressing women. We originally started as an occasion wear shop before moving into bridal as well, and we have now expanded to offer three shops.
What trends can we expect this summer?
Expect lots of colour! Gone are the days when mum-of-the-bride/ grooms like to blend into the background of a wedding. We have seen a massive demand for bright, bold colours such as fuchsias, shamrock green and cobalt blues. Print is also making a huge comeback, with bold florals in floaty chiffons in huge demand.
What is your favourite part of the job?
We love seeing the confidence a great outfit can give a mum. Mums often come in apologising for how they look, and you can see the change in their demeanour when they wear an outfit that makes them feel like a million dollars. We sometimes even get tears!
What’s one piece of advice that you can share with couples? Do your research, and don’t leave shopping to the last minute.
Occasion wear differs significantly from the high street; we only get two deliveries yearly. We cannot reorder an outfit once it has gone, so ensure you’re ready to commit when shopping. Check out: www.chameleonbride.co.uk
The experts at WatchPilot advise on how to choose the perfect watch for your big day
Awatch should complement a groom’s suit, however it should also be a timepiece that they will want to wear for years to come.
Co-founder of WatchPilot.com, Tim Harrison, has shared with County Wedding Magazines’ grooms’ editor, Melissa Cullen, his expert advice on buying and investing in a timepiece for your big day...
What type of watches are available for grooms-to-be?
The most common watches are quartz, which offer accurate timing with minimal maintenance. Quartz watches also have the most affordable watch movements.
Then there are automatic watches which selfwind using kinetic energy. These store energy by using the movement of your wrist but are typically more expensive than quartz options.
Mechanical watches function via an intricate series of tiny components working together to power the watch. These never need batteries because they require hand-winding to operate. They are super reliable and often very attractive to look at but they do come with a higher price tag than other timepieces.
The final type is the solar watch, which has the ability to convert light energy into electrical energy; they do not require battery replacements and feature a quartz crystal movement for accurate timekeeping.
What are the latest watch trends?
Watches mean so much more than just telling the time; they represent every second of our lives. Some of the most recent style trends include vintage watches with nostalgic elements such as thin cases, minimalistic dials and those with beautiful heritage.
Smart watches are continuing to be a big
trend as people are increasingly investing more in their health and wellbeing, and these timepieces are the best for staying in tune with your body while you meet your fitness goals.
There has also been a huge increase in using bold colours in both jewellery and watches. Blue, green and other pastel colours have been particularly utilised by many brands, producing a variety of new lines and limitededition pieces.
How can grooms-to-be add a personal touch to their wristwear?
A wedding is a great opportunity to add a sentimental item or two to your wardrobe. Potentially borrow a watch from a family member or someone very close to you. If you are wearing a new watch, consider having it engraved to provide a memory of your special day – this could be a date, initials or a quote.
Appearance is one of the largest factors for grooms when choosing what to wear on their big day, with this in mind, what are your tips for grooms-to-be when selecting a watch to complement their suit?
The most common watch worn with a suit is the dress watch. Consider a simple design with no flourishes. A plain black leather strap and simple dial is understated and refined.
When gifting a watch to a groom, what details should be considered?
Opt for a classic and elegant design. Much like an engagement ring, the watch should stand out, however not be too extravagant. Consider taste and style preferences for example, if he’s sporty look for a classic chronograph.
If you know what colour metal the groom prefers to wear as part of his wardrobe i.e. on belt buckles or cufflinks, then this could be a hint for the colour of watch they may like.
Lastly stay within your budget! Don’t forget that weddings can cost quite a bit of money, so set yourself a price limit and work within it.
How do you suggest cleaning and maintaining a watch?
Whether you wear it every day or just for special occasions, it’s important to make time to give your watch a bit of TLC with a regular clean. This not only keeps it looking good, but it’s also essential for making sure it works well,
keeps time effectively over a long period as well as for general hygiene.
How often you should clean your watch varies. If you wear your watch every day, then a thorough clean, once a month, should keep it free of dirt and grime. If you’re more of an occasional wearer, then a six-monthly deep clean is recommended.
The first step is to take a look at the manual that came with your watch. This should give you a good idea of what you can and can’t do during the cleaning process. Next, you’ll need the proper equipment. A few essential items that will help you give your watch a thorough clean include a microfibre cloth, cleaning fluid, brushes, a watch strap remover tool and a Cape Cod polishing cloth.
If your watch strap is made from leather, fabric or silicone, you’ll need to remove it before you can start cleaning. You’ll also need to push or screw in all the crowns (the winders) and buttons to prevent water or moisture from damaging the internal workings of your watch.
There are some parts of your watch, like the crown and buttons, that might be too small to effectively clean with your cloth, and this is where your cleaning brushes come in. They’re perfect for getting into all the nooks and crannies, including the crown, buttons and inside the lugs. Always spray the cleaning fluid onto the tip of each brush, not the watch itself, and use a dry part of your microfibre cloth to remove any excess.
Now it’s time to buff or polish your watch using your Cape Cod polishing cloth. Not only will this remove any streaks and brighten up the surface of your watch, but it’s also a great way to buff out any fine scratches or blemishes. For more information, visit www.watchpilot.com
Timex has released a new addition to its popular Timex Expedition Range. The Expedition North Titanium Automatic features a 21-jewel automatic movement and a quick-release leather strap. It’s made using durable materials, including titanium and scratch-resistant, anti-reflective sapphire crystal and is ideal for everyday wear and adventurous grooms-to-be.
Visit www.timex.co.uk for more information.
On the back of what was Favourbrook’s best year in the brand’s history, the formalwear specialist has announced the launch of its new Spring/Summer 23 Menswear Collection. The collection celebrates the timelessness of tailoring, from the sophisticated elegance of morning dress and glamorous eveningwear, to the refined motifs of relaxed summer options.
New for this season is unstructured linen suits comprising of Favourbrook’s iconic Newport jacket silhouette.
Constructed from a beautiful Irish linen, these suits have a relaxed, natural drape and are available in a plethora of soft pastel tones, perfect for casual summer weddings and smart social events.
VRAI, known for creating sleek jewellery with unisex appeal, has revealed the new Brushed Bevel Band, a modern take on the wedding ring that is both substantial and subdued – perfect for grooms-to-be.
Available in platinum or solid gold, the brushed effect gives the band a soft exterior while the modern bevelled edges create a look of durability. The band is 6mm wide and 1.8mm deep and can be engraved to add a personal touch.
Visit https://uk.vrai.com for more info.
Hanz de Fuko (www.hanzdefuko.com) is a hair care brand that aims to ‘bring out the individual artist’ in everyone. The versatile range of shower essentials has been created using organic ingredients and is designed for all hair types, from thick and curly to fine and thinning. The complete range is now available in Boots stores throughout the UK.
Also newly available in Boots is skin and body care brand Anthony (www.anthony.com). The brand’s approach utilises the latest cuttingedge scientific ingredients, such as glycolic and salicylic acids, to the more traditional tried and tested properties of clays, sands and botanicals to address every male concern from head to toe. Discover more at www.discoveredbrands.com
War Paint For Men has announced a new skincare range. Made up of three vegan formulas, the streamlined products are designed to make your skincare routine effective without spending hours in the bathroom.
The lightweight eye cream helps defend against dark circles and smooth fine lines and delivers deep hydration. It has a cooling metal roller-ball applicator that massages and energises tired eyes.
Also available is the lightweight daily moisturiser, which optimises hydration and leaves skin feeling smooth. It includes a blend of antioxidants that help to support your skin’s health and leave it feeling refreshed and never greasy.
Favourbrook is also the Official Menswear Licensee for Royal Ascot. The Royal Ascot Collection is a capsule of stunning morning suits in the traditional black, as well as charcoal and navy options, with a host of silk and linen waistcoats and accessories.
To find out more, visit www.favourbrook.com
The lightweight night serum is centred around hydration and renewal. It’s quickly absorbed and targets signs of ageing and uneven skin tone to reveal healthier-looking skin when you wake up. All three products are clinically proven, vegan and use cruelty-free ingredients.
The skincare range is available directly from the website, www.warpaintformen.com and at selected Superdrug stores.
We’ve rounded up some of the latest on-trend products for the groom-to-be
Work Hard Waistcoat, £50, www.joebrowns.co.uk
Green Brushed Palladium Starburst Bowl Cufflinks, £189, www.tateossian.com
Tommy Hilfiger Ryder Watch 1710499, £179, https://uk.tommy.com
Men’s scarf, www.ikks.com
Racing Green Penton Cord Cotton Windsor Trouser, £240, www.favourbrook.com
Racing Green Velvet Cotton Dinner Jacket, £690, www.favourbrook.com
The Trendsetter, from £95 or £125 with prescription lenses, www.bloobloom.com
Wool Donegal Suit Jacket, £104, www.next.co.uk
Green Sterling Silver Octagon Click Pelle Bracelet, £350, www.tateossian.com
The Angel Hotel is nestled in the picturesque South Downs near the Meon Valley and is definitely one of Hampshire’s rediscovered gems when it comes to Hotels.
With its 36 Quality Bedrooms and a Luxury Bridal Suite, ease of access and multiple car parking spaces plus a spacious Restaurant, it’s long been a popular place locally for those who are in the know.
We welcome the opportunity to show prospective Couples our fabulous new Function Facility; The Nicholson Suite. An Air Conditioned Venue Space that can accommodate Weddings of up to 120 people with its own private entrance, bespoke bar and feature glass atrium. Added on to our existing Barn Styled Room this will most certainly make its mark on Hampshire’s Wedding & Event Industry.
Our landscaped Oak Garden with Feature Pergola offers you the ideal photo opportunity and finally as your Wedding draws to a close, then our sumptuous Luxury Bridal Suite will be available for you to complete your day.
We are also able to host Marquee Weddings for 150 plus in 2023 & 2024 in our secluded landscaped Rear Oak Garden. Finally, we are licensed to hold Wedding Ceremonies at the Angel Hotel, which allows us to host your Wedding Day from start to finish.
Be sure to visit our website at www.angel-hotel.co.uk to register for future updates, view the Walkthrough Videos and Download our Wedding Brochure.
timeless elegance with contemporary style, the new Pearl Collection from 77 Diamonds explores the mesmerising play of colour and contrast in pearl jewellery. Discreet diamond accents grace the soft satin of pearls, bringing to light these incredible treasures from the sea.
A long-held tradition, our fascination for pearls dates back millennia. Brides would often be gifted pearl jewellery ahead of their wedding day as a symbol of strength and purity. The clean, bright finish of a pearl is the perfect addition to any bridal gown and will be cherished as a glowing symbol of love for generations.
Make pearls the jewellery of choice for your special day and enter our competition for your chance to win the stunning Tesora Necklace from 77 Diamonds. A lesson in understated elegance, the classic appeal of the Tesora will grace any outfit with a glowing, mirror-like sheen. Featuring a single pearl drop, this piece shows delicate diamond accents that are sure to catch the eye. The Tesora is set with a single round-shaped freshwater pearl, specially picked by 77’s jewellery experts for its superior quality. Anna Byers, 77 Diamonds’ head designer says, “By honouring centuries of traditions and craft, we look to magnify the natural beauty of pearls and incorporate them into our daily lives. Each pearl has been carefully selected for its lustre and sheen and makes for a truly precious gift.”
For your chance to win the stunning Tesora Necklace from 77 Diamonds worth £1,100, simply answer this question and enter online at www.yourhampshiredorset.wedding ‒ good luck!
Q Where are 77 Diamonds’ stores located?
Located in West London and Manchester, 77 Diamonds is an esteemed jeweller that specialises in matching wedding rings and sparkling bridal jewellery. Handcrafted by experts in the heart of Mayfair, their pieces are designed to be cherished as family heirlooms for generations. Above all, their exceptional team of diamond and jewellery specialists will help create jewellery that symbolises your eternal love with your partner. Whatever your desired style and budgetary requirements, 77 Diamonds will help you design personalised jewellery that reflects your unique story.
Specialising in diamond and coloured gemstone jewellery, 77 Diamonds will work with you to come up with handcrafted, custom-made and engravable designs for your special day. You can choose from a variety of precious metals, including white gold and platinum, as well as a wide selection of premium diamonds and gemstones. Additionally, 77 Diamonds also offers bridal necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Visit www.77diamonds.com to learn more.
The new Bulgari Hotel in Tokyo has opened its doors. It’s the eighth gem in the Bulgari Hotels & Resort Collection, bringing Bulgari’s contemporary style to the capital of Japan.
Occupying the 40th to the 45th floor of the ultra-skyscraper in the North District, the hotel overlooks the Imperial Palace and offers stunning views of the city, including Mount Fuji on the horizon. Named after the 17th century Dutch adventurer Jan Joosten van Lodensteyn, known in Japanese as Yayōsu, the Yaesu district has recently flourished becoming one of the most attractive areas of the city.
The hotel’s 98 exquisitely-furnished rooms and suites offer a modern, Italian design with touches of Japanese tradition, coupled with cutting-edge technology. There’s also an on-site restaurant run by a Michelin-star chef, a bar, a state-of-the-art gym and a spa.
Discover more at https://www.bulgarihotels.com/en_US/tokyo
The Treehouses at Leckie opened in March 2023 with four sustainable luxury hideaways for couples to choose from. Set amongst ancient woodland overlooking the magnificent Gargunnock Hills in Stirlingshire, Scotland, each is unique in character with luxurious amenities. Charming details include super king-size beds, underfloor heating, cosy woodburning stoves, double sofa beds, farm shop welcome hampers, sumptuous outdoor copper baths, decking areas with electric barbecues and outstanding views offering a year-round authentic Scottish wilderness experience. Only 45 minutes from Glasgow, the beautiful estate of Leckie boasts rolling parkland, ancient woodlands and dramatic craggs complete with crashing waterfalls. Find out more at www.leckietreehouses.co.uk
The luxurious restaurant, SEEN by Olivier has just opened in Nice, France, inside the new Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel. The concept, created by restaurateur Olivier da Costa, is an immersion in a vibrant atmosphere, with eclectic cuisine, cocktails and music.
SEEN by Olivier has an Art Deco-inspired décor and a 360-degree view of the city and the Mediterranean Sea from the interior room and the terrace.
The menu features flavours from all over the world, from Asian cuisine to contemporary Mediterranean specialities, with something to suit everyone.
Check out www.seennice.com for more information.
Okahirongo Elephant Lodge in Namibia has undergone an extensive refurbishment. The lodge is surrounded by the vast wilderness of Kaokoland, with various activities for exploration, adventure, and discovery. There are seven individual suites and a two-bedroom family suite available – perfect for a family-moon.
After a day’s safari, unwind on the shaded patio and luxurious daybed on the private veranda. Giraffes can be seen wandering down the valley if you look towards the desert, where the shifting sand dunes can reach a height of 300 metres, making them some of the tallest in the world.
You can also take a game drive with expert Himba guides to find elephants, lions, giraffes, and plentiful gemsbok, springbok, steenbok, kudu and exotic bird species.
Head over to www.sanctuaryretreats.com for more information.
Locanda La Raia, a stunning Italian mansion situated on a 180-hectare estate, is now available to hire exclusively. Nestled in the heart of the Gavi Hills, this beautiful and elegant 12-room mansion is surrounded by vineyards, pastures and woods and embraces an eco-system created by the biodynamic farm on-site. Locanda La Raia is perfect for those who are looking for an authentic Italian country-chic experience where you will learn about the fascinating process of biodynamic winemaking.
The building and grounds were refurbished recently by architects Demicisarchitetti, who restored the original arched and vaulted ceilings and added large windows which overlook the vines of the estate.
The restaurant at Locanda La Raia is centred around Gavi cuisine with influences from Liguria and Piedmont. Season menus feature produce from the biodynamic farm, such as grains, fruit and vegetables from the garden and eggs and meat from the free-range Fassona cows. There is a treatment room situated among the vineyards with a heated indoor and outdoor swimming pool that can be used all year round, a fully-equipped gym with a view of the garden and a fitness trail at the foot of the hills.
To find out more, visit www.la-raia.it/it/locanda
Terre Blanche Hôtel Spa Golf Resort in Provence, France, has launched two new spa treatments. Just three hours’ travel from London, the resort, immersed in nature, is a secluded haven of tranquillity where couples can embrace the natural beauty of Provence.
The new ‘Cure Detox Retreat’ combines a balanced diet, physical activity, and skin treatments, with morning sports classes such as yoga, pilates and meditation, as well as a series of luxurious spa treatments.
The ‘Energising Signature Massage’, inspired by the characteristic Provençal dance, is a rhythmic massage that awakens the body with its quick movements and restores vigour and energy. With notes of orange blossom, this massage will leave you with a unique memory of your visit to Terre Blanche Hôtel Spa Golf Resort.
Find out more at www.terre-blanche.com
Ikos Porto Petro is a new luxurious property set to open in June 2023. Sitting on the coast of cosmopolitan Mallorca, Ikos Porto Petro will have 319 rooms, suites and bungalows as well as five a la carte restaurants with exquisite menus prepared by Michelin-star chefs.
Couples can spend their days exploring the sandy coves, enjoying watersports or taking a local drive at no added cost. If a relaxing holiday is more your cup of tea, Ikos has a luxury spa and a wide range of wellness activities on offer.
To book, visit www.ikosresorts.com/resorts/ikos-porto-petro
Perched on top of a cliff in Mononaftis Bay, located in the quiet and picture-perfect area of Agia Pelagia, stands Seaside, A Lifestyle Resort. Reopening this summer with a new pool and bar, the property boasts serene panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and is only a short stroll away from a beautiful sandy beach.
Seaside, A Lifestyle Resort, boasts 245 rooms and suites, some with private pools, which offer all the tranquillity and comforts couples could ask for. Each room is elegantly decorated and draws on the island’s natural palette of whites, terracotta, and neutral tones with a boho-chic design.
If you’re looking to unwind, then take a dip in the newly-renovated saltwater outdoor pool. For wellness lovers, the Sea Cave Spa offers a heated indoor pool, massage rooms, a steam room and an ice fountain. The retreat has an extensive list of treatments, including facials, nail, and hair services, so you can look and feel your best while making the most of your Cretan holiday. Visit www.seaside-hotel.gr for more information.
Aftera speedy trip on the Eurostar and a leisurely stroll, we arrived at the Shangri-La Paris. With all that Paris has to offer, the actual accommodation you find yourself using can often feel like an afterthought. However, with the history and majesty of the Shangri-La Paris, the hotel is as much a tourist destination as the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe or even the Eiffel Tower. A former home of Prince Roland Bonaparte, overlooking the River Seine, the hotel is centrally located in the 16th arrondissement and seamlessly blends European grandeur with traditional Asian hospitality.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by a welcoming member of the hotel concierge who checked in our bags while we were given a guided tour. The building is a stunning feat of architecture and the location alone is enough to take your breath away. The hotel has plenty of stand-out features (too many to mention), but the impressive marble-lined swimming pool converted from the former stables, the relaxing spa, state-of-the-art health club and stunning entrance hall are all must-sees.
If you want to relax with a drink in your hand, then you’ll feel right at home in the stunningly decorated Le Bar Botaniste or Les Lounges, both of which offer a friendly and impressive service.
Catching our breath for a moment, we were shown to our suite. In all honesty, the view of the Eiffel Tower a few hundred feet away, in plain sight of our room, made it very hard to focus on the suite itself for a good few minutes! But after wiping the stardust from our eyes, we discovered that we had been treated to a magnificent space. The biggest bed I’d ever seen, a walk-in wardrobe and a lavish bathroom greeted us; with every aspect of the room designed around that view. The attention to detail was beyond anything I could have imagined with every amenity you could possibly need at your fingertips.
One of my favourite aspects was the balcony, which showed the tower in all its splendour and views of the city at every turn. Sitting there with a cup of tea and homemade macarons was one of the highlights of the trip, and I opted to be out on the balcony every spare moment I had.
There are two restaurants at Shangri-La Paris, both of which are beautifully decorated with stand-out food. Shang Palace, where I had the pleasure of dining, is France’s only Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant and what a treat it was! Inspired by Southeast China’s culinary traditions, the restaurant offers authentic Chinese cuisine by chef Samuel Lee.
With so much choice, we were a little lost for words, but thankfully the charming hostess was very helpful and suggested options that she felt we would enjoy.
Every dish was incredible and the food complemented the surroundings perfectly. We started with the chef’s special sashimi; immaculately prepared, it set the standard for what was to follow. The lobster dumplings were a particular favourite of mine and is something I’d eat every day if possible. After several dishes, it was safe to say I was stuffed, but when the dessert arrived, I couldn’t help myself; the rice balls with mixed fruits and whipped cream was delicious and one of the best desserts I’ve ever had. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime meal, then this is it. It’s been months since we visited, but we still talk about how delicious everything was.
With such awe-inspiring surroundings, we couldn’t resist a short stroll over to the Trocadéro and across the Seine to the Eiffel Tower. As beautiful a sight at night as during the day, we couldn’t believe our fortune.
When we eventually headed back to the hotel, we wearily made our way up to our bedroom. The suite had an impressive TV, but it almost felt like a redundancy next to the view from the windows. I’m typically a blackout sleeper, but on this occasion, I had to sleep with the curtains wide open.
After a wonderful night’s sleep, we ordered breakfast to our room and enjoyed it out on our balcony terrace. Barely noticing the brisk February weather, we dined in what felt like the historic heart of Paris. Breakfast was up to the high standards we’d come to expect from the Shangri-La Paris, and when it came to checking out, we felt devastated to be leaving. I can say with absolute certainty that we left with our chi restored and look forward to returning in the near future!
BOOK IT: www.shangri-la.com/en/paris/shangrila
Melissa Cullen reveals whyFor our second evening in Paris, we had the fortune of being hosted by the Hôtel Dame des Arts. Just a stone’s throw from Notre-Dame, it’s located in the Latin Quarte, which is considered the artistic heart of Paris. The hotel boasts terrace rooms looking out to the Eiffel Tower, a spacious and luxurious rooftop bar, and a charming secret garden courtyard – a gem in the centre of a bustling, metropolitan area.
Entering through a sleek, sliding door, we felt like we’d been invited into an ultra-secretive club. The hotel’s lobby, with its dark motif, stylish sofas and low lighting simultaneously blended Art Deco architecture with the feel of a futuristic nightclub. After checking in, we were shown up to our room, which continued the theme exhibited in the lobby. The architectural vision of the hotel is singular, drawing you completely into the world the owners have created.
Our room was the natural extension of the hotel; with all the amenities any couple could desire. Every aspect had been well thought out and cleverly made use of the space available. A sliding, frosted-glass door separated the bedroom from the bathroom area, and the use of lighting and sleek, curved panelling made us feel like we were on the set of a high-budget movie. Our room even had a terrace looking out to the Eiffel Tower, bringing us back into the heart of Paris.
After dropping off our bags, we were given a guided tour of the hotel. The beautifully arranged restaurant and bar giving way through an impressive door to a stunning garden space. A mix of comfortable furniture and grounding flora, the tranquillity of the area makes you forget being mere feet away from the busy streets surrounding the hotel – a true feat. Our next stop was the hotel’s gym. The curved, wooden panelling enveloping the walls of the room is really a sight to behold. The final stop of our tour was the building’s rooftop terrace, and I assure you, our guide had saved the best for last. The terrace looks out in every direction across Paris, choosing a seating location is an almost impossible task!
Major sightseer locations such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame and the Panthéon are all visible from the terrace; with stunning pieces of Parisian history everywhere you look. I can imagine sitting at the bar on a summer’s evening watching the sun go down over one of the most beautiful cities in the world being a truly transformative experience.
Once our tour had ended, we made our way down to the restaurant for dinner. Starting with a cocktail in hand, the space had a buzzing atmosphere and was full of people laughing and enjoying the splendour. My hubby and I ordered the corn ribs with magic mayo and cotija cheese as a starter and were impressed by the delicious taste and presentation. After examining the menu and struggling to choose just one dish for our main, we asked our friendly waiter for his recommendations. We chose to share the pork ribs in a Roja and Verde sauce, and when it arrived at our table, we were both incredibly excited for what was to come. Every part was wonderful, and although we were sure we wouldn’t be able to fit any dessert, when we saw the menu, we just had to try the chocolate ganache cake with coffee cream. I’m a big sweet person, so the dessert ticked all of my boxes, and I would happily eat it over and over again if I could!
After a busy few days exploring the city, it’s safe to say we were in need of some sleep. As soon as my head hit the pillow, I drifted off and awoke never wanting to leave.
When we eventually motivated ourselves to go downstairs for breakfast, everything looked delicious and we couldn’t decide between the continental or cooked option or which of the vast array of drinks to go for. The food was delicious and when it came to checking out, we felt incredibly sad to be leaving and wished we could re-live the experience all over again. We’ll be heading back to Paris soon, and when we do, we’ll definitely be staying at both of these fabulous hotels again.
BOOK IT: www.damedesarts.com
We offer two unique and exceptionally distinct venues that are available exclusively. Our venues are filled with character and striking surroundings proposing some of the finest views in Portsmouth. Our kitchen brigade has developed bespoke menus and delicious cuisine that is locally sourced and elegantly presented.
Our Boathouse 4 Restaurant is situated on the South Coast complete with stunning harbour views and boasting an historical focal point and backdrop of HMS Warrior. Our venue offers its own private bar and lounge area which can be enjoyed as part of your Wedding celebration.
Our Boathouse 7 venue is a restored historic boathouse. Your guests will love the experience of celebrating on dry land as the water of the harbour laps beneath. Whitewashed walls and triple height exposed timber ceilings bring a rustic edge to this exceptional events space. Boathouse 7 is perfect for large receptions and weddings.
To enquire about hosting your Wedding celebration with us please contact our Events Manager with your initial enquiry: e: Enquiries@DockyardEvents.com t: 02392 731552
TheMitre Hampton Court could not be placed in a more romantic location; just a five-minute walk from Hampton Court Palace and nestled on the bank of the River Thames. So, when my other half and I whizzed down to the home county of Surrey for a night away around Valentine’s we had high expectations for our stay.
Before checking in, we busied ourselves in The Mute Swan, a pub conveniently placed next door, for a few hours. With the February sun shining down, much stronger than expected, we couldn’t have started our visit in higher spirits. It’s here I left Daniel, basking in the spring weather, while I headed to the Pamper Room, inside Mitre Hampton Court, to experience a life changing massage from the in-house masseuse, Alex.
The combination of soothing music, Alex’s expert touch and delightful spa products from Lola’s Apothecary (www.lolasapothecary.com) meant my hour of tranquillity flew by and I left feeling refreshed and renewed. Whilst my treatment was designed to instil calm and correct energy imbalances, there was a variety of other therapies to alleviate both mind and body. The Stimulating Treatment designed to eliminate toxins and encourage lymph drainage is perfect for those looking to reduce swelling and improve circulation in their bodies.
I found my partner, where I left him, feeling like a new woman, and we checked into our room for the night. The river-facing Royal Rooms are aptly named as they are indeed fit for royalty. Named individually after historic characters who have famously influenced our part of the world, they boast stunning décor, king-sized beds, complimentary toiletries and – the standout feature of any room – a huge free-standing bathtub. These suites truly are a welcoming space for mini-mooners where you can leave your worries at the door.
The interiors throughout this boutique hotel are certainly breathtaking. The old building has all the grandeur of an English country house, but the modern, inner-city inspired furnishings give the place a kitschy charm. The perfectly curated style looks as though it’s jumped straight out of your Pinterest board, and you’ll end your visit with a strong desire to redesign your living room!
After unloading our bags and freshening up – and admittedly indulging in the orange and ginger liqueur gifted to us in our room – we were more than ready for dinner. Our evening meal took place in the
Mitre’s 1665 Riverside Brasserie. With a centrepiece bar, wine room, and gorgeous al fresco terraces perfect for the warmer months, the restaurant is rich in atmosphere.
We were lucky enough to sample a delicious selection from both the seasonal menu and house specials. Starting with a local Berkshire venison tartare and the warming truffle and Jerusalem artichoke soup, this was a wonderful indication of the restaurant’s dedication to combining locally and worldly sourced delights.
Moving on to our mains we were thrilled with both the pan-fried salmon and beetroot risotto, the fish pairing wonderfully with the French Sancerre our waiter was kind enough to recommend us. But the real star of the show from the whole evening was the duck fat chips loaded with Wiltshire truffle hollandaise – seriously naughty and certainly calorific but they tasted so good it doesn’t even bare thinking about.
The wait staff throughout our entire meal were friendly, welcoming and reassuring – making all the difference to our experience. We ended the night toasting to our stay with two – equally delicious as they were splendid looking – espresso martinis.
After dinner, drifting off to the land of nod was easy, and we had a wonderful night’s sleep.
My other half and I both share a great love for breakfast foods and are known to spend all week searching for the best brunch spot for a Sunday morning, so our morning meal the following day was arguably one of the things we were most excited for. It’s no understatement to say we were certainly not disappointed. At the buffet you could find a huge selection of delicious pastries, cereals and fresh fruit that made your mouth water just from the sight of it. The barista-made coffee was the perfect pick-meup to start the day, especially whilst enjoying the famous river-side views.
New from The Mitre team this spring, is The Coppernose café. With more of the superb breakfast, brunch and lunch options in a relaxed environment, it’s perfect to pop in if you’re in the area.
If you’re planning a romantic night away to escape from the stress of wedding planning or looking for the perfect staycation destination for your mini-moon, The Mitre Hampton Court is undoubtedly the place for you. I couldn’t fault my stay and I know it won’t take any convincing at all to get my other half to consider a second trip there.
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“It was an incredible evening and Iggy was exceptional” Nazeer & Louise “If we could do it all again we wouldn’t change a thing” Ronald & Lucy
Recently named Dorset’s number one wedding venue (by Hitched.com), The Kings Arms offers an idyllic setting in Dorset for your dreamy New-England style wedding.
The rustic-chic King’s Pavillion provides the perfect setting for a romantic al fresco ceremony in warm and sunny months or the cosiness every winter wedding needs in cooler months. Overlooking the bowling green, River Avon and historic castle ruins – the backdrop makes for beautiful photographs.
BOOK YOUR DREAM WEDDING 01202 588 933 kings.events@harbourhotels.co.uk harbourhotels.co.uk/kings-arms
