Your South Wales Wedding - Issue 88 November/December 2022

FASHION & BEAUTY

66 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches 67 WHAT’S TRENDING? This is what brides-to-be will be wearing in 2023

SHINE LIKE A DIAMOND Dazzle this festive season in gold, pearls, charms and diamonds

FASHION Q&A Local professionals solve your problems 78 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with the must-haves for the bride-to-be 80 SKIN FOOD Discover how to achieve that much-desired bridal glow the natural way, through a healthy diet of skin-loving foods

REAL WEDDINGS

35 CLASSIC ELEGANCE Amy and Ieuan tied the knot at Lakeside Venue, which they styled with a rustic theme

BY THE SEASIDE

Rhian and Adam opted for a coastal theme with celestial accents for their wedding day at St Mary’s Church and Trefloyne Manor

COUNTRY ROMANCE Holly and Matt had an elegant country-themed wedding at St Denys Church Lisvane and Glewstone Court Country House

IN LOVE WITH THE LAKES

myriad of delights lie in wait in The Lake District for UK honeymooners

PURE LUXURY

www.chrisblackledgephotography.co.uk

Let it snow

After a very busy year tying the knot to my wonderful partner, travelling to some beautiful places and celebrating several of our friends getting married, it’s finally time to close the door on 2022. It’s been quite a year, with a flurry of weddings from some beautiful couples across South Wales, lots of new companies opening their doors and some getting back to normal post-pandemic. Seeing things open up again has been wonderful and I can’t wait to see what 2023 brings!

If you’re a regular reader, then you’ll know that the November/December issue has always been my favourite, and I look forward to writing it every year. It’s packed full of inspiration, adorable products, seasonal weddings and the latest fashion trends. To celebrate the end of 2022, we’ve gone all out with a wintry feature that will help you create the perfect festive wedding, must-see photography pages and the latest on-trend dresses. If you’re dreaming of tying the knot in a fairytale venue, then we’ve got you covered on page 27 or if you’re looking for something in Monmouthshire or Brecon, head over to page 19.

Remember, if you’ve tied the knot, you can submit your big day at melissa.cullen@kdeventsandpublishing.com or www.yoursouthwales.wedding/get-involved-real-wedding

Here at Your South Wales Wedding, we’re planning to celebrate Christmas with our friends and family and welcome in the new year in style. Whatever your plans are, we hope you have a lovely time and take a well-deserved break!

Want

www.frankee-victoria.co.uk (editing), www.leeshawilliamsphoto.com and www.geraint-roberts.co.uk

Melissa Cullen, Senior Editor

Rhian and Adam celebrated their big day with a relaxed coastal theme at Trefloyne Manor.

Fall in love with these trendsetting dresses.

The latest openings and honeymoon destinations for couples post-vows.

Amy and Ieuan chose a rustic-theme for their wedding at Lakeside Venue.

Claire Ridley spent the summer in Santorini and Athens.

Beth Morton and her hubby visited The Belfry Hotel & Resort in Sutton Coldfield.

Holly and Matt had an elegant celebration at Glewstone Court Country House.

The latest seasonal must-haves for the groom-to-be.

all about eve bridal

AWARD-WINNING VENUE

The Good Hotel Guide (www.goodhotelguide.com) has revealed its annual list of César winners with Penally Abbey Hotel and Restaurant in Pembrokeshire taking home the award for the Best Hotel in Wales.

This year, the winners included a former motorway service station on the M6, a Grade I listed townhouse where the in-room coffee maker can be found in a doll’s house, a revamped 11th-century Cotswold stone inn and a 1950s Scottish youth hostel that is now a stunning hotel.

Penally Abbey Hotel and Restaurant is situated on the coast and is owned by Melanie Boissevain, who has created stylish, relaxing rooms filled with antiques, French market finds, blowsy wallpapers and Persian rugs.

To find out more about the property, visit www.penally-abbey.com

NEWS Nearlywed

All the latest from around South Wales

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Out Of The Box, a flower preservation artist based in Merthyr Tydfil, is celebrating one year of business and has also been nominated for an award at the Welsh National Wedding Awards. The owner, Kate Pugh, tells us: “I create timeless resin keepsakes from your wedding bouquet that you can cherish forever. I worked with my first-ever wedding bouquet just over a year ago and I’m so grateful for all the love and support I’ve received in that time. It’s been overwhelming at times but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love working with your beautiful flowers as my full-time job. Thank you all so much! I have a lot more to achieve and I can’t wait for the next year to grow bigger and better.”

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

www.mybigdayphotos.co.uk

The King Arthur Hotel in Swansea are finalists at The Welsh Restaurant Awards (www.facebook.com/thewelshrestaurantawards) in the Hotel Restaurant of the Year category. Located in the heart of the Welsh countryside, this award-winning hotel is a hidden gem in the spectacular Gower peninsula. Family-run, it comprises of 18 en-suite bedrooms, an 18th-century Guinevere’s cottage and self-catering cottage apartments. Rich in history, the King Arthur Hotel’s wedding venue, Avalon, has been popular since 2003. The large room boasts a high-pitched ceiling with exposed French oak beams, Welsh slate floors and arched windows overlooking the surrounding landscaped gardens. Head over to www.kingarthurhotel.co.uk for more information.

ECO-FRIENDLY EXPANSION

Bluestone National Park Resort is situated in 500 acres of rolling countryside in the heart of Pembrokeshire. The first sustainable timber frame for 80 new lodges recently arrived at the resort as part of a £23 million expansion. The park comprises of 344 cabin-style woodland lodges, colourful cottages and studio apartments built around a traditionally-designed village featuring shops, a pub, six restaurants and an award-winning exclusive holistic spa. All of the accommodation and the picturesque village lie within the boundaries of the beautiful Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with more than 50 beaches within an hour’s drive.

Marten Lewis, the head of sustainability at Bluestone National Park Resort, tells us: “We know there’s a growing demand for a sustainable luxury tourism product in Wales and we’re confident that we can meet the need for an ecologically-sound product in natural surroundings. Sustainability is a key aspect across all of the design decisions. Along with the promotion of health and wellbeing, sustainability has always been an integral part of Bluestone’s business operations and will continue to be as we move forward.”

The new lodges will have their own private entrances with virtual check-in and luxurious facilities. Couples can now book the new lodges ready for the official opening in the summer of 2023. For more information, go to www.bluestonewales.com

FLORAL WONDERS

Encapsulated Memories in Llanharan is offering new personalised heart frames. These flower preservation frames come in two different sizes and can be customised with names and dates or surnames.

The owner, Emma Cross, tells us more: “Encapsulated Memories started because I wanted to learn how to preserve my own bouquet from my wedding. My heart and soul go into every order and I feel so honoured to be able to preserve such precious, memorable handmade pieces.”

Emma offers a wide range of designs, including hearts, spheres, blocks, arches and hexagons, letters, coasters, tea light holders, teddy bears and frames.

Find out more at www.encapsulatedmemories.com

TREND SETTER

The Bridal Boutique Narberth has been nominated for Best Bridal Boutique and Business Woman of the Year at the Best of Welsh Wedding Awards (www.bestofwelshawards.co.uk).

THE PERFECT GETAWAY

Outdoor accommodation specialist Pitchup.com have gone through more than 142,000 reviews and discovered that Wales is the most popular camping destination in the UK. Perfect as a family-moon or break for nature lovers, camping is a great way to see some of the region’s best spots.

Dan Yates, the founder of Pitchup.com, said: “People looking for an autumn getaway that won’t break the bank should definitely have a look at the accommodation on offer in Wales and our other top regions, which offers incredibly good value for money. As the reviews all come from past guests, couples can be reassured that these are genuine rankings and authentic feedback, based on real experience. Grass tent pitches can be as little as £10 per night, and as the weather gets colder, there’s a host of other affordable alternatives such as shepherd’s huts, lodges, camping pods and cabins.”

Discover more at www.pitchup.com

Denise Clewes says: “We are a family-run business that stocks and adjusts a wide range of wedding dresses, bridesmaids’ outfits and more. Our line-up includes fantastic options from well-known designers such as Ronald Joyce, Sophia Tolli, Morilee and True Bride. Our team can spend time with you and your bridal group picking the right dress, and our talented seamstresses will ensure it fits perfectly. No detail is too much, and our team is here to help ensure your gown is exactly how you want it.

“Thanks to our lovely couples, I’m one of the finalists at the Best of Welsh Wedding Awards, which I can’t believe. This is all down to your votes, so thanks so much!”

For more info, check out www.bridalboutiquenarberth.co.uk

To book an appointment, discuss your plans and discover how we may help, please get in touch or come to our Wedding Fayre on 11 September from 11am 4pm

Guildhall, Swansea SA1 4PE 01792 635432 / brangwyn.hall@swansea.gov.uk www.brangwyn.co.uk

I drefnu apwyntiad, trafod eich cynlluniau a dysgu mwy ynghylch pa gymorth y gallwn ei roi i chi cysylltwch a ni neu dewch i’n Ffair Briodas on 11 Medi from 11am 4pm

WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY WITH DINNER!

Nested in more than 2,000 acres of panoramic parkland at the gateway to Wales, the Celtic Manor Resort is an ideal destination for couples to relax in a wonderfully peaceful setting.

Along with one night of accommodation at the five-star Resort Hotel, we’re offering one lucky reader the chance to win an incredible dining experience, before waking up to enjoy a full Welsh breakfast.

Whether couples are after a luxury escape or a boutique break, there is something to delight everyone at the Celtic Manor Resort, with accommodation including the Resort Hotel, the historic 19th-century Manor House, Coldra Court, the Newbridge on Usk country inn and 10 luxurious Hunter Lodges.

There is also a host of world-class facilities available, including three championship golf courses, two exceptional spas, and activities such as tennis courts, fishing, adventure golf and a treetop high ropes course.

When it comes to dining, guests can choose from seven restaurants, with highlights including the award-winning signature restaurant, Steak on Six, with its spectacular views overlooking Coldra Woods, and PAD, delivering contemporary dishes bursting with authentic Asian flavours.

Voted the UK’s Best Hotel at the Meetings & Incentive Travel Awards, the Celtic Manor Resort is also licensed to hold civil ceremonies, with an array of beautiful wedding venues and packages catering to all tastes.

Exclusively for Your South Wales Wedding readers, the Celtic Manor Resort is offering a one-night stay for two people with dinner included. Enter this fab competition via our website.

Freebies & OFFERS

Terms and conditions apply. The competition closes on 31st December. To find out more, visit www.celtic-manor.com

STYLE STATEMENT

On your wedding day, light up the room in these statement gold ear climber earrings which bedazzle with four intricately cut moonstone gems. The sparkling gemstones, in a staggered line, descend in size and sit in an 18k gold-plated setting. Every detail has been well thought out, from the size of the stones to the slight curve of the earrings, creating the perfect mesmerising bold earring for a bold woman.

Founded by Ramona Gohil, an inspirational female entrepreneur passionate about her British Indian heritage and culture Rani & Co is not just any jewellery brand; its crafted unique pieces symbolise how powerful women can be.

Check out www.raniandco.co.uk

County Wedding Magazines’ readers have the chance to win a pair of Rani & Co Moonstone Climber Earrings worth £64.99!

Take advantage of these gorgeous giveaways and fab offers

Photo by www.liz-and-stuart.co.uk

Photo by www.liz-and-stuart.co.uk

MONMOUTHSHIRE, BRECON AND AROUND Spotlight on...

CAER LLAN, NP25 4JS

01600 860 359 | www.caerllan.co.uk

Situated in more than 25 acres of countryside, Caer Llan is a familyrun venue with impressive mountain views. This 18th-century property has an outdoor swimming pool, an original Victorian greenhouse and 16 en-suite bedrooms exclusively for wedding guests. Inside are large Chesterfield sofas and armchairs, Welsh slate floors, oak fireplaces, neutral colours and recycled-oak picture frames.

Celebrate in style

The Main Function Room has large bi-folding doors that open to reveal

picturesque views of the surrounding area.

Al fresco celebrations take place in the gazebo, which can accommodate 80 loved ones for the service and 120 for the evening celebration.

The stretch tent and veranda is a charming area where guests can dine outdoors protected from showers or the sun.

We love...

Lovebirds will have exclusive use of the property throughout the day, including the on-site bedrooms.

www.loveseen.co.uk

LLANCAIACH FAWR MANOR, CF46 6ER

01443 412 248 | https://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/llancaiachfawr

The Grade I listed Llancaiach Fawr Manor is a one of the finest surviving fortified Tudor manor houses in the country. Situated in the heart of the South Wales Valleys, this 16th-century property has been restored to how it would have looked during the royal visit of King Charles I in 1645.

Celebrate in style

The Parlour is used for intimate celebrations and provides the perfect setting for a candlelit ceremony with up to 30 guests, or the Great Hall can be used for up to 50 people. Alternatively, the light and modern Conservatory offers panoramic

views across the countryside and is available for 70 friends and family.

Perfectly combining modern and traditional décor, the Mansell Hall is a beautiful space with room for 120 nearest and dearest.

Large receptions take place in the marquee. Situated on a tree-lined meadow, the formal gardens are ideal for a canapés reception and taking photographs with up to 120 loved ones.

We love...

The manor house is only 15 minutes from Brecon Beacons National Park and is close to the pre-historic landscape of Gelligaer Common, a place of significant historical importance.

TALL JOHN’S WEDDINGS, LD3 7PX

01239 821 143 | www.talljohnshouse.com

Situated within acres of exquisite grounds with mature trees and breathtaking views across the valley, Tall John’s Weddings is a charming wedding venue in Brecon. The gardens at Tall John’s House are the brainchild of Willow Cracroft, who transformed it from an overgrown and neglected space into an amazing garden with features such as a rill, rose arbour, silver birch circle and a splendid display of flowers, shrubs, fruits and vegetables.

There is a restored Welsh barn available for weddings which looks across the Black Mountains with an enchanting courtyard and a wooden gazebo that can be decorated with flowers and covered in Perspex if the weather is unkind. Inside are electric points, underfloor heating, insulation, hard floors and a catering area.

Celebrate in style

The split level Granary, with its canopied beams and light-stone floor, can accommodate 80 guests downstairs, but there is space in the gallery above for extra friends and family.

Large celebrations are held in the barn, which is licensed for 160 loved ones.

Those wanting to enjoy the great outdoors can tie the knot anywhere in the gardens or underneath the wooden gazebo.

We love...

Included in the venue hire is two nights in the Honeysuckle Cottage, which sleeps eight people on a self-catering basis, and the happy couple will be able to spend the wedding night in The Coachmans. The house is also available for up to 27 guests on a staffed basis, with breakfast included.

St Pierre Marriott Hotel & Country Club is a four-star venue that’s easily accessible from Newport, Cardiff, Bristol and Bath. Nestled within 400 acres of picturesque parkland in the rolling hills of the Wye Valley, this 14th-century manor is accessible via a grand tree-lined driveway and offers a range of leisure facilities, perfect for pre-wedding celebrations, including a spa, treatment rooms, fitness classes and a swimming pool.

Celebrate in style

There are several areas available for weddings, including The St Pierre Suite, which boasts a foyer, bar, ornate ceiling, a chandelier, impressive

views of the surrounding golf course and space for 200 guests.

The idyllic 11th-century St Peter Church is available for couples wanting a religious ceremony.

Intimate celebrations take place in St Davids. Boasting a private patio overlooking the croquet lawn, it’s capable of holding 40 nearest and dearest throughout the day.

We love...

The venue’s grounds and two championship golf courses create wonderful photograph opportunities.

Weddings at the Diplomat Hotel & Spa

Create your bespoke fairytale wedding at Llanelli’s most popular and romantic wedding venue. We occupy a fabulous position in Llanelli, where we have been catering for wedding receptions for the past 40 years. In this time we have built up a long standing reputation in South Wales for attentive service and fabulous food.

We understand that every wedding is unique and whether you are planning a small intimate wedding for close friends or large grand wedding, at the Diplomat we will specially tailor the day to your requirements and budget.

Our hotel holds a civil wedding licence and offers you the convenience of having your ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening reception all under one roof. We are also the only luxury hotel within a 30 mile radius with an indoor swimming pool, full spa and gym facilities.

Arrange an appointment with our wedding and events team to view our beautiful hotel and wedding facilities.

Nestled amongst the rolling Welsh hills of the Brecon Beacons and a stone’s throw from beautiful Llangorse Lake, sits the stunning Tall John’s Manor House. Set in  superb grounds is our wonderful stone Barn, which has been lovingly restored to provide the perfect wedding venue for up to 160 guests with integral toilets and catering area. The nearby Granary with its adjoining reception room has been refurbished  to make an alternative civil ceremony venue or extra reception space so that we can be as flexible as possible to fit in with your dreams for your big day.

The barn is a blank canvas venue - it is yours to style as you wish, to create a space that is personal, individual and unique to you. We know every bride is different, every couple is unique and your wedding day should reflect that. To help you create the wedding day of your dreams we offer you the chance to make the barn your own - your friends, your family, your style. YOUR day, YOUR way. Blank canvas venue / Exclusive Use of our beautiful grounds / Incredible private position / NO set suppliers or corkage Cottage accommodation included / Cottage included for bridal couple / Elegant Georgian manor house available Gazebo in the gardens for civil ceremonies / Granary for additional reception space www.talljohnshouse.com | Llangasty, Near Brecon, Powys, LD3 7PX

www.andersonphotography.org.uk

GLEN-YR-AFON, NP15 1SY 01291 672 302 | www.glen-yr-afon.co.uk

Surrounded by acres of countryside and picturesque gardens is the grand Glen-Yr-Afon. Opening in 1974, the award-winning hotel is home to 28 modern bedrooms and is just a short walk away from the town of Usk, which is full of boutique shops and restaurants.

Celebrate in style

Couples can tie the knot in the Ballroom, an elegant space, with large bay windows and room for 150 loved ones throughout the day.

The Library, with its conical ceiling and striking interior, can hold 30 friends and family for the vows and 20 for the reception.

The Dining Room can be used for up to 45 nearest and dearest for the vows and 35 for the meal.

Weather depending, lovebirds can get married in the venue’s grounds.

We love...

The four-star Victorian villa has a neutral décor throughout, which can be personalised to suit any theme or colour scheme.

www.andrewhazard.co.uk

CEFN TILLA COURT, NP15 1DG 01291 672 595 | www.cefntilla.com

Dating back to the 17th century, Cefn Tilla Court is a grand wedding venue nestled within 120 acres of countryside and was once home to Lord Raglan, the youngest son of the Duke of Beaufort.

Celebrate in style

Ceremonies take place in the pagoda, next to the oriental lily pond, with up to 170 friends and family.

Alternatively, the historic Great Hall can be used. Located at the front of the house, the windows overlook the lawns and lily pond, letting in plenty of natural light and the wood panelling and carved family crest exude a sense of history and charm. The room has space for 90 guests for the

service and 40 for the reception.

Larger celebrations are held in the Courtyard Marquee, with room for 150 loved ones throughout the day and 200 in the evening. The marquee is a blank canvas that can be tailored to suit any theme or colour scheme, ideal for those wanting to personalise their day.

We love...

There is a range of accommodation to choose from, including shepherd’s huts, stables, a coach house and a beautifully-decorated apartment. The stunning boudoir suite boasts a luxurious interior and is available for couples to use on the night of the wedding.

Your Winter Fairytale Awaits

There are many wedding venues in South Wales - but only one in a Grade 1 listed castle.

Think majestic turrets, sweeping staircases and gothic towers (perfect for photo opportunities!). Our gorgeous Grade I listed building is nestled in luscious, landscaped grounds with it’s own Serpentine Lake and Jetty.

From 60 to 200 guests

Idyllic photographic setting

Just 3 minutes from J34 of the M4

Photo: www.www.philip-warren.com

Photo: www.whencharliemethannah.com

A DREAMY

celebration

Tie the knot in a fairytale venue

CRAIG Y NOS CASTLE, SA9 1GL 01639 731 167 | www.craigynoscastleweddings.com

Craig Y Nos Castle is a fairytale castle located on the edge of the Brecon Beacons. Boasting 36 en suite bedrooms, an on-site gym with high-quality apparatus, a private lounge and a hot tub, the property is surrounded by breathtaking grounds with plenty of places for guests to explore and take photographs. Once home to Adelina Patti, the world-famous opera singer, Craig Y Nos Castle has a long and interesting history with a stunning décor throughout.

Celebrate in style

Couples looking to tie the knot in a grand setting will love The Theatre. It’s one of only eight Grade I listed opera houses in the UK and boasts

a 125-year-old curtain depicting Madame Patti on a chariot in Rossini’s last Italian opera. What’s more, the walls are decorated with the names of Patti’s favourite composers and there is room for 120 guests.

Once the ceremony has taken place, couples can choose from several reception areas, including the Conservatory, which has room for 130 loved ones, and the Music and Billard Room which can accommodate 120 friends and family.

Alternatively, The Patti Bar and Nicolini Lounge are located in the centre of the castle and are available for nearest and dearest to use throughout the night.

We love...

W-day couples and their friends and family can organise a tour of the castle to find out more about its rich history.

Hensol Castle is a grand wedding venue that has been sympathetically renovated and boasts a modern décor with arched windows, oak panelling and sweeping staircases. Nestled within 650 acres of beautiful Welsh countryside, the 17th-century castle and 15-acre lake make a wow-factor backdrop for photographs. After the celebrations, guests can retire to one of the new luxury bedrooms, each with bespoke features fit for royalty, like roll-top baths and four-poster beds.

Celebrate in style

The Oak Room is a resplendent space that’s available for ceremonies with

www.itpie.co.uk

PENCOED HOUSE ESTATE, CF5 6JR

Surrounded by 36 acres of grounds, well-groomed lawns, flowers and ancient woodland, Pencoed House Estate is a beautiful wedding venue full of charm. Dating back to 979AD, it was once home to ministers of the church, the King of Glamorgan and King Arthur and Queen Guinevere.

Celebrate in style

Made from original stone walls, the stately Old Hall has a striking vaulted

impressive views of the nearby lake.

Those looking for an al fresco service will love the romantic bandstand, which offers breathtaking views of the Welsh countryside and castle.

Receptions are held in the purpose-built Courtyard Hall, which has a luxurious décor throughout and space for 150 guests for the wedding breakfast and 200 for the evening reception.

We love...

Hensol Castle’s award-winning gin is available in miniature form; perfect as a wedding favour for guests. Distilled in the cellars at Hensol Castle Distillery, couples can choose between having the miniatures personalised or sticking to the Hensol Castle branded bottles.

www.itpie.co.uk

ceiling, wooden beams, a roaring log fire and room for 120 guests.

Adjacent to the Old Hall is the self-contained Woodland Bar, which is ideal for post-wedding drinks.

Outdoor weddings are available for up to 40 loved ones.

We love...

The happy couple will receive a complimentary wine tasting session, the help of a wedding coordinator, carefully-selected caterers and staff to manage guest parking.

The romantic charm of the award-winning familyrun Hotel is just one of the many factors that have made us a leading Pembrokeshire wedding venue. You can be assured that your experience will be intimate and completely bespoke. Our venue is set in modern surroundings with breathtaking views across to Treffgarne Rocks, as well as impeccable food and service throughout.

From the moment you arrive for your first visit, your team of dedicated wedding coordinators will be with you to ensure your day is both enchanting and unforgettable. We hold a civil ceremony licence in our Garden Room and can cater for both intimate and larger gatherings of up to 130 guests attending the ceremony and 180 for your wedding breakfast. The spacious suite can be dressed to any specification with lighting that can be adjusted to any colour scheme.

Wolfscastle

www.pembrokeshireweddingphotographer.co.uk

WOLFSCASTLE COUNTRY HOTEL & SPA, SA62 5LZ

01437 741 225 | www.wolfscastle.com

Nestled in the village of Wolfscastle, Wolfscastle Country Hotel & Spa is an award-winning family-run property with 20 en-suite bedrooms, a two AA rosette restaurant, a contemporary brasserie and a boutique spa. This charming Victorian vicarage offers impressive views of the surrounding woodland landscape and the awe-inspiring Treffgarne rocks.

Celebrate in style

The Garden Room is a bright and airy space with high ceilings, large

www.dunford-rees.com

GILESTON MANOR, CF62 4HX 07794 611 105 | www.gilestonmanor.co.uk

Tucked away off the beaten track is five-star wedding venue, Gileston Manor Estate. Situated within nine acres of lovingly kept gardens and grounds, this Grade II* listed manor house is situated in the awardwinning village of Gileston in the Vale of Glamorgan and boasts sweeping front lawns and impressive sea views. The Queen Anne property has recently been renovated and includes original panelling, mirrors and crystal chandeliers.

Celebrate in style

The estate houses the pretty church of St Giles, which is perfect for couples planning a religious ceremony.

bi-folding doors that open up to the rear garden and room for 120 guests. Large celebrations are held in the Sealyham Suite, a spacious area that can be dressed to fit any specification with colour-changing lighting and space 180 friends and family for the wedding breakfast and 300 for the reception.

We love... When three or more people book a spa package, the bride-to-be goes free.

www.sophiecollinsphotography.co.uk

Civil ceremonies can be hosted in a variety of settings, including the manor house and numerous spaces within the gardens.

The neutrally-decorated Lotus Marquee has sparkling chandeliers, views of the Jurassic Coast and can comfortably seat 140 dinner guests for the wedding breakfast with room for more in the evening.

We love...

Gileston Manor has seven exquisite guest suites, all individually themed and styled, including the bridal suite which was designed by David Emanuel. Additional accommodation can be found in the recently-renovated courtyard, luxury cottages and suites, providing accommodation for 40 people in total.

There's no Place like Holm

Just a stones throw from the historic Penarth pier sits a magnificent cliff top hotel dating back to 1926. Without losing any of the character and charm of the original private residence, the current owners were able to take full advantage of the breathtaking channel views with the addition of an impressive extension flooded with natural light. Exclusively yours for 90 guests for ceremony and wedding breakfast and 120 guests for evening celebrations, whilst 12 luxury bedrooms and suites provide accommodation for your nearest and dearest.

You’ve found the one and now it’s time to say

'I do' to your dream venue....

a Venue for all Seasons...

Whether you are planning a summer soiree with an outdoor ceremony on the lawn and welcome drinks from the garden bar sat around the sunken firepits or a timeless winter wedding where the original log fires and lavish Christmas decorations take centre stage, Holm House will be sure to impress whatever the season.

a Venue’s not Created by Stone, but by People

What really sets Holm House apart as the perfect wedding venue is the dedicated warmth of service from our professional and personable team. From your first show around to the big day itself, your dedicated event manager will guide you every step of the way whilst our awardwinning team of Chef’s will dazzle your guests with a delicious menu using the finest locally sourced ingredients.

Images courtesy of Raymond Lin Photography and Kelsie Hale Photography

Mae priodas eich breuddwydion yn cychwyn yma

Your

Wedi’i leoli mewn 113 erw o dir parc gwledig, sy’n edrych yn ysblennydd trwy gydol y flwyddyn, mae Ty Bryngarw, sydd mor berffaith â darlun, yn un o leoliadau priodas mwyaf atyniadol De Cymru.

dream wedding

starts here

Set in 113 acres of country parkland, which looks spectacular all-year-round, picture-perfect Bryngarw House is one of South Wales’ most sought-after wedding venues.

classic

ELEGANCE

Amy and Ieuan tied the knot at Lakeside Venue, which they styled with a rustic theme

Images courtesy of Bright Sight Photography

Amy and Ieuan met through mutual friends when they were 18. “I didn’t like Ieuan at first, but he was persistent and really wooed me,” says Amy. “He turned out to be romantic and we’ve been inseparable ever since.”

Ieuan proposed in 2020 during one of the many lockdowns. “It was the first day I went back to work after being furloughed for a few months,” shares the bride. “When I returned home and opened the door, our favourite song was playing, balloons were covering the ceiling, there was a flower petal trail through the house and candles everywhere. It was so personal and romantic.”

Here the bride shares some of her favourite moments from their big day...

I always wanted a rustic outdoor feel to our day and knew I needed a space big enough to accommodate all of our guests. When we visited Lakeside Venue, we knew it was perfect. Louise, the owner and coordinator, was a dream to work with and gave us a really personal experience.

We wanted our guests to feel special and have sentimental takeaways from our day, so we created favour boxes. These included a personalised candle, a scratch card, chocolate, a small bottle of alcohol, a bag of personalised M&Ms and a mini jar of Nutella with our names and wedding date on.

For the centrepieces, we decorated large gold hoops with fairylights and fresh flowers. We assembled and wrapped these in the weeks leading up to the wedding, but a bridesmaid and I finished them the night before. She even stayed up past midnight, whilst I was sleeping, to take them to the venue so they were as fresh as possible.

We opted for a four-tiered cake made by Becky from Orla’s Cake Boutique. It was an elegant design with pearlescent ivory buttercream with both real and hand-painted florals trailing down the sides.

Our table plan was quirky and different. It was two slim doors that we painted ivory and added gold decal stickers. Within the panels, we screwed little hooks and hung vintage keys that had the guests’ name tags attached. The tags were made by the very talented Nikki from Nikki Swift Designs. She designed and made all of our wedding stationery. It was also a real conversation starter and everyone took their keys home. It was a lovely touch and worth the extra time. It was also a nice thing for us to do together in the lead-up to the wedding.

I love flowers and knew exactly what I wanted the day I got engaged. My sister-in-law and I made all the bouquets, buttonholes and top table flowers. I purchased all the blooms from Whittingtons in Cardiff a few days before and stored them in the bath at home until we left for the venue the day before.

My parents organised a vintage convertible from VW Weddings Wales to transport my dad and I to the venue. We also organised a Range Rover to transport the groomsmen and bridal party.

The bridesmaids opted for multi-way pink dresses from Infinity Dress. They all wore the top half in different ways to suit their body shapes and looked stunning.

Ieuan wore a tailored three-piece grey-checked suit with a white shirt and brown brogues. The groomsmen and father-of-the-bride wore the same but with a plain pattern.

My gown was from Eleganza Sposa and it was an ivory-laced design with a long train, blush undergown and custom-made off-the-shoulder straps. I accessorised with a chapel-length veil in the same colour and lace. It was very grand and elegant and was my dream dress.

To ensure our guests were having a good time, we had a saxophonist play during the cocktail hour and a bouncy castle from JM Entertainment. We also hired a photo booth from South Wales Party Booths and organised a firework display with Pendragon Fireworks & Pyrotechnics, which was the highlight of our day.

We were nervous and excited on the morning of the wedding. I felt calm until I was due to leave for the venue and was then full of emotion. Ieuan was excited, a little nervous and he cried when he saw me walking down the aisle.

The ceremony was just stunning and an absolute dream.

One of the best men switched our rings with Haribo rings, so when he opened the ring box during the ceremony, it was a hilarious surprise.

All of our guests were amazing and helped us celebrate the most perfect day. The speeches were incredible and all so personal.

AMY AND IEUAN’S CONTACTS

Venue, Lakeside Venue, www.lakesidevenue.co.uk | Photographer and videographer, Bright Sight Photography, www.brightsightphotography.com | Bride’s dress, Eleganza Sposa, www.eleganza.co.uk | Bride’s earrings, Carat* London, www.caratlondon.com | Dress alterations, Belle Mariee Bridal, www.bellemarieebridal.co.uk | Groom’s suit, Eden Menswear, www.facebook.com/edenmenwear | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Infinity Dress | Hair stylist, Ohana Hair & Beauty, www.facebook.com/ohanahairandbeauty | Make-up artist, Zoe Trigwell Makeup, www.facebook.com/zoetrigwellmakeupacademy | Cake, Orla’s Cake Boutique, www.facebook.com/orlarosecakes | Flowers, Whittingtons, www.whittingtons.biz | Stationery, Nikki Swift Designs, www.nikkiswift.com | Welcome sign, Rose Signage Co., www.rosesignageco.co.uk | Transport, VW Weddings Wales, www.vwweddingswales.co.uk | Ceremony hoop, All Lights On You, www.alllightsonyou.co.uk | Personalised neon bar sign, Light Up and Glow Neon, www.lightupandglow.co.uk | Celebrant, DMG Ceremonies, www.dmgceremonies.co.uk | Fireworks, Pendragon Fireworks & Pyrotechnics, www.pendragonfireworks.co.uk | Photo booth, South Wales Party Booths, www.southwalespartybooths.com | Bouncy castle, JM Entertainment, www.jmentertainment.co.uk | Waffle and crêpes van, Bocs Pwdin, www.bocspwdin.co.uk

NORTON HOUSE HOTEL | SA3 5TQ 01792 404891 | functions@nortonhousehotel.co.uk www.nortonhousehotel.co.uk/weddings

SILVER PACKAGE

40 Day Guests, 70 Evening Guests, Exclusive Use of the Hotel, 17 Rooms Included!

2023 £7,000 2024 £7,400

PACKAGES 2023/2024

GOLD PACKAGE

40 Day Guests, 70 Evening Guests, Exclusive Use of the Hotel, 17 Rooms Included!

2023 £8,000 2024 £8,400

PLATINUM PACKAGE

40 Day Guests, 70 Evening Guests, Exclusive Use of the Hotel, 17 Rooms & 4 Apartments Included!

2023 £11,500 2024 £12,500

Located a short walk from the town of Mumbles a stones throw from the stunning Swansea Bay Coastline is the Norton House Hotel. A Georgian Grade II listed building with 17 en-suit rooms, 4 apartments and a large Function Room, Restaurant and Bar as well as a large Patio and Garden space perfect for your big day.

Come and take over the whole building, with exclusive use just for your special day with one of our packages. Or, if you are looking for something a little different speak to a member of our team about creating a bespoke package just for you. Whether you want an intimate occasion for 15 people or a blow-out celebration for 90 we have something to suit you.

By the seaside

Rhian and

a

Adam opted for

coastal theme with celestial accents for their wedding day at St Mary’s Church and Trefloyne Manor Images courtesy of Frankee Victoria Photography (editing), Leesha Williams Photography and Geraint Roberts Photography

Rhian

and Adam met at university in 2008. “We lived in the same flat during our first year,” says Rhian. “After we moved out, we stayed friends and in our third year we started spending more time together. Before we knew it, we were inseparable, staying up all night watching films and eating takeaway. We knew from the start that we had something really special and after 11 years together, every day is still just as amazing as when we first started seeing each other. We always say we are like two puzzle pieces that fit together, as we love so many of the same things, but differ in ways that bring out the best in each other.”

In an incredibly romantic gesture, Adam flew across the world to propose to Rhian. “I was on a family holiday in the Dominican Republic and he took a gamble by not telling anyone he was coming,” shares the bride. “He arrived at our hotel on the same day as us, managed to lay low for a day-and-a-half and in that time, brought my brother in on his plan to propose. On the second night of our holiday, Adam appeared on my balcony. I had been in my parent’s room with my brother, when I was asked to go back to mine to get the key we had ‘forgotten’. When I went back, I was met by rose petals leading me from the door to the balcony and there was Adam waiting for me on one knee. That was the biggest surprise of my life. It meant the world to me that he had gone so out of his way to not only surprise me, but to have my family be a part of it too.”

SETTING THE SCENE

“Having grown up in Tenby, it holds such a special place in my heart and Adam and I have lots of special memories there,” explains Rhian. “When we started planning our wedding, we considered other areas but kept coming back to Tenby. Once we settled on it, we knew there was only one place that we could tie the knot and that was St Mary’s Church, as it was a big part of my life growing up. When it came to looking for a reception venue, we wanted somewhere close by, with amazing food and a beautiful reception room. We also wanted enough accommodation for our bridal party to stay with us and we had some quite specific ideas of things we wanted to incorporate into our day, so flexibility was really important too. Trefloyne Manor gave us everything we wanted and more.”

The couple asked Bee Davies Illustration to hand-paint their table plan. “Adam and I absolutely love all things celestial, so we named our tables after star constellations,” adds the bride. “We wanted to give people a little piece of Tenby to take away with them, so our place names were pebbles, handpicked from Tenby Beach. Bee Davies Illustration also hand-painted our welcome sign and order-of-service. She painted four quotes for us, which were taken from poems and raps Adam and I have written for each other over the years and we dotted them around the reception venue. We have since used these to decorate our home and remind us of our wedding day.

“For our centrepieces, we chose beautiful individual flowers arranged by Forbesfield with pink and blue candles from Gifts on the Green,” continues Rhian. “We picked a relaxed coastal-style for our flowers, with lots of texture and light blue and pink accents. The bridesmaids’ posies were smaller versions of my bouquet and each was finished with Lancaster and Cornish silk ribbon. My mum and dad gifted me a charm the night before our wedding, which my bridesmaids attached to my bouquet whilst we were getting ready. We had a beautiful arch outside of the church, which was entirely out of budget but absolutely worth it! Our confetti was blue and white, but if you look closely, you will see dried red rose petals all the way from our engagement in the Dominican Republic. Following the wedding, we decided to have the bridal bouquet and Adam’s buttonhole pressed into a frame, that is one of our favourite keepsakes that we get to look at every day.”

Rhian’s mum made a fruit cake, which was decorated with royal icing and polka dots. “It was finished with a handmade topper of our ragdoll cats by The Wire Boutique and a flower arrangement from Forbesfield,” recalls the bride. “We also had a Biscoff and salted caramel sponge cake, made by The Sweet Cake Kitchen, which was celestial themed. To cut our cake, we used the most beautiful Vera Wang cutting set, gifted to us by my parents the night before the wedding.

“Adam made the music playlist for our reception venue with the help of his best men and the playlist is something we still listen to all the time,” adds Rhian. “Think hip hop and R&B mixed with some old favourites.”

Rhian’s parents hired wedding cars from Glyn’s Wedding Cars as a present. “We chose the Brenchley car for me and the Daimler for my mum and the bridesmaids,” says Rhian. “It was such a special moment to arrive in Tenby high street in a classic wedding car with people lining the streets. It had been raining on and off that morning, but just as we arrived, it decided to stop, so the driver took down the roof of the Brenchley in the middle of square! After we were married, Adam and I took our first journey as husband and wife.

“For our drinks reception, we had jugs of Pimms and bottles of beer on the outside terrace and thanks to the staff, we didn’t see an empty glass,” recalls the bride. “We had mini burgers, salmon rolls and savoury scone canapés. We also had delicious Welsh cakes, homemade by my auntie. Our wedding breakfast was influenced by our favourite meals. To start our guests could choose from duck salad, fishcake or spiced soup with onion bhaji; for main it was pork belly, roast dinner or hake, and dessert was baked vanilla cheesecake, pear and honey tart or sticky toffee pudding. We really wanted to give people a meal they enjoyed, so it was important to us that we could offer a choice and we had trialled

most of the courses beforehand and absolutely loved all of them! Our evening food went down a treat too; we had pasties from Pembrokeshire Pasty & Pie Co served with wedges.”

DRESSED TO IMPRESS

“My dress was so special as it was gifted to me by my dad,” shares Rhian. “It took me a while to find the one because I liked so many different styles. I didn’t think I would be the type to have ‘the moment’ but how wrong I was! The dress I chose caught me completely off guard and captured my heart the moment I saw myself in the mirror. Designed by Aire Barcelona, it had lots of layers and lace and was romantic, wispy and relaxed. I accessorised my dress with a cathedral-length veil, polka dot heels and jewellery with celestial accents. I also had a beautiful Maggie Sottero gown from Allison Jayne for the evening, which I unexpectedly won in a competition!”

Adam and the groomsmen wore navy blue tuxes from Hawes & Curtis and accessorised with silk bow ties and white pocket squares. “Adam finished his tux with cufflinks that I gifted to him,” remembers the bride. “The bridesmaids looked beautiful in navy silk cocktail dresses finished with rose gold aquamarine stone earrings. They had gold pashminas which came in handy for the outdoor evening reception. My mum wore a light blue dress suit from Image By Vanessa, which had subtle gold and silver details and she looked absolutely perfect.”

TIME TO CELEBRATE

“We had our drinks reception on the outside terrace with one half of the John Adams Music playing in the background – the other half joined us

later,” explains Rhian. “Phil Jay Close Up Magician was fantastic! John and Andy created a relaxed vibe and everyone was super impressed by Phil’s magic! Phil did his final magic trick, just for us, which was a really special moment. We held the first part of our evening reception outside and once the band had finished, we danced into the night with our wedding playlist before going back inside. We also had a photo booth which was lots of fun and the photos and messages from that doubled as our guestbook.”

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

“We spent a lot of the day in disbelief that we had finally made it, as it was our fourth try at getting married because of COVID-19,” shares Rhian. “We had been through a lot with me needing lifesaving surgery the year before and we had waited such a long time for our moment to come around, so I think it meant even more to us. It was the most unbelievable and happy time of our lives and to devote that day to celebrate our love and strength with our friends and family was worth every second of the wait.

“It’s so hard to pick out parts of the day that stood out to us as everything was so special,” adds Rhian. “The most surreal part of our day was arriving at the church, I think it was only at that moment that we

both let ourselves accept we were probably going to finally get married! Walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing Adam for the first time in his tux was a moment I will never forget. He looked amazing and we were both just so happy. There were so many more lovely memories, from my family seeing me in my dress for the first time, to the speeches and climbing St Catherine’s Island. We had the island to ourselves, so we climbed to the castle rooftop and took in the most beautiful views of Tenby we’d ever seen.”

Rhian and Adam ended up locked outside the church. “When we left for our confetti shot, the church doors were shut behind us with our photographer and videographer’s kit and all the décor we wanted to re-purpose at the reception venue still inside,” remembers the bride. “Thankfully, I knew the rectory’s phone number and my dad, brother and brother’s girlfriend ended up breaking into the church (with permission) to get the stuff locked inside!

“My mum had been unwell in the lead-up to our wedding and continues to be, so it was incredibly special that she did a reading during the ceremony,” adds Rhian. “I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house. In the evening, Adam set up a big projector screen and played a rap he had recorded as part two of his wedding speech. It told the story of our proposal and was absolutely hilarious, even the staff at Trefloyne Manor came to watch and everyone loved it.”

RHIAN AND ADAM’S CONTACTS

Ceremony venue, St Mary’s Church, www.stmaryschurchtenby.co.uk | Reception venue and catering, Trefloyne Manor, www.trefloyne.com | Photograph editing, Frankee Victoria Photography, www.frankee-victoria.co.uk | Photographers, Leesha Williams Photography, www.leeshawilliamsphoto.com and Geraint Roberts Photography, www.geraint-roberts.co.uk | Videographer, John Mark Films, www.johnmarkfilms.co.uk | Bride’s reception dress, Allison Jayne, www.allisonjayne.com | Groom’s suit, Hawes & Curtis, www.hawesandcurtis.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Chi Chi Clothing | Mother-of-the-bride’s outfit, Image By Vanessa, www.imagebyvanessa.co.uk | Father-of-the-bride’s outfit, Eden Menswear, www.facebook.com/edenmenwear | Bride and mother-of-the-bride’s hair and make-up, Brows + Brides, www.browsandbrides.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ hair, The Hideaway Beauty Room, www.instagram.com/the.hideawaybeautyroom | Blue cake, The Sweet Cake Kitchen, www.facebook.com/thesweetcakekitchen | Cake topper, The Wire Boutique, www.facebook.com/thewireboutique | Cake knife, Vera Wang, www.verawang.com | Flowers and table decorations, Forbesfield, www.forbesfield.co.uk | Gold easel, mini easels, order-of-the-day board and charger plates, The Luxe Touch, www.theluxetouch.co.uk | Personalised framed canvases, The Roaming Caravan Co., www.facebook.com/roamingcaravanco | Candles, Gifts on the Green, www.giftsonthegreen.shop | Transport, Glyn’s Wedding Cars, www.glynsweddingcars.co.uk | On-the-day stationery, Bee Davies Illustration, www.beedavies.co.uk | Magician, Phil Jay Close Up Magician, www.facebook.com/philjaycloseupmagician Band, John Adams Music, www.johnadamsmusic.co.uk | Photo booth, Ultra Booth, www.ultrabooth.co.uk | Evening catering, Pembrokeshire Pasty & Pie Co., www.parcelsofmagic.com

Country romance

Holly and Matt met over a decade ago. “Matt saw me dancing the night away in Cardiff while he was studying at university, and the rest is history,” says Holly. “Matt popped the question during a holiday to Sri Lanka to visit his family. On the second day, Matt and I went for a walk on the beach, and while I was busy taking photos of the sea, Matt got down on one knee! I was so shocked, I just kept asking: ‘are you serious?’. I obviously agreed and he put the most beautiful ring on my finger. The engagement was such a surprise and for it to happen on Matt’s childhood beach was extra special. What was even more wonderful was that we were able to celebrate with both mine and Matt’s parents. We had an engagement party with all the extended family under the coconut trees, which was magical.”

Here she shares some of her favourite moments from their big day...

Holly and Matt had an elegant country-themed wedding at St Denys Church Lisvane and Glewstone Court Country House Images courtesy of Lewis Fackrell Photography

The ceremony was always going to be in my family church in Lisvane. I love flowers and knew I wanted it to be packed full of the most beautiful blooms. I wanted to focus heavily on garden roses, which created the most amazing smell. I was very specific and had a vision of what I wanted and our florist, Love Lily Floral Design Studio, really brought it to life.

I had just graduated from my teacher training, and wanted to have a celebratory meal on the drive home. We stumbled across Glewstone Court Country House, and I remember being amazed by how beautiful it was. The service we received was amazing, and the food was incredible. We knew there was something special about the venue, and this was before we were even engaged. When we got engaged, we knew straight away that Glewstone Court Country House was where we wanted to spend our wedding, it was perfect!

As our wedding was two years later than planned, we had even more time to perfect every element. I decided to make our invitations, orders- of-service and place names. I created them using lovely handmade paper and silk ribbon. This tied in with our elegant country theme, and I was so pleased with the results. I particularly liked our seating plan, which was intertwined with a floral display, so guests had to get up close and personal with the flowers to find their seat. I named the tables after the David Austin roses in our garden.

The cake by Home Farm Kitchen was ivory buttercream with gold accents and cascading garden roses. It was too pretty to cut! We opted for sticky ginger and carrot as they’re our favourite flavours. It was just as yummy as it looked.

My little Welsh touch was Welsh slate hearts on the table as favours for people to take home and remind them of our day.

Love Lily Floral Design Studio created a sweeping staircase of foliage and blooms, which created the perfect backdrop for our cake.

I wore a Justin Alexander dress from Perfection Bridal Cardiff. I knew straight away that it was the one and I paried it with a matching cathedral-length veil. I wanted to wear my hair as natural as possible and I found the perfect hairdresser who really worked with my curls and I was so pleased with the result! My make-up was lovely and enhanced my features without being too heavy.

I opted for a floral headpiece, which was full of roses and jasmine, it worked perfectly with my dress and overall feel of the day. I later changed this to a sparkly headpiece for the evening. I wore Charlotte Mills shoes, which had a block heel and a tulle bow. They were so comfortable, and I danced the night away in them. As my something new, I had my nan’s diamond ring designed into a necklace, and for my something borrowed, I wore my mum’s diamond earrings.

Matt

Music was so important to us. We wanted our guests to be entertained every second of the day. At the ceremony there were musicians playing to welcome guests while they waited for me to arrive. Our ceremony was full of worship songs, and we also had a performance from the church choir and Katy Treharne, a truly amazing opera singer, which was spine tingling.

My bridesmaids wore dusky pink floor-length dresses from TFNC. They were so flattering and fitted them all perfectly. They wore their hair in a loose up do with earrings that I had bought them as a gift. They all looked beautiful.

chose a navy morning suit from Dyfed Menswear. He had a navyspotted tie, and his groomsmen opted for silver versions.

When our guests arrived at Glewstone Court Country House, they were greeted with welcome drinks as well as canapés while Unity String Quartet played in the background. We also had an ice cream tricycle and croquet for everyone to enjoy.

We

I remember the church doors opening and being total transfixed on Matt. When we were saying our vows, it felt like it was just us in the room and was incredibly special. The songs and performances in the church were so personal and made us both emotional.

Our biggest secret was the appearance of Dhol Players & Band Baja, who performed straight after the first dance. The drummers were hidden in the back room and surprised all our guests as they erupted into the best performance. They played along to our selected playlist, and it was incredible. The room was about to bursting with people dancing and having the best time. The drummers and photo booth from Ride My Tuk Tuk was our way of including Matt’s Sri Lankan heritage, and I think it made our wedding quite unique.

We had the trip of lifetime for our honeymoon to Singapore and Bali. It was two year in the planning, so we were very excited. The hotels were beautiful, and we had the most special time away.

My family dog, Tillie, was a part of our day and a real star. In the early hours of the morning, she needed the toilet, so my brother, Joe, took her outside only for the door to close and lock behind him. Everyone was asleep, so he got to enjoy the sunrise in the early hours of the morning until someone was able to let him in!

Our top tip to any couple is make your day personal. Try and find something that represents you both as a couple because that’s what people will remember.

HOLLY AND MATT’S CONTACTS

Ceremony venue, St Denys Church Lisvane, www.stdenyschurch.org.uk | Reception venue and catering, Glewstone Court Country House, www.glewstonecourt.com | Photographer, Lewis Fackrell Photography, www.lewisfackrell.co.uk | Videographer, Fleur de Lys Films, www.fdl-films.co.uk | Bride’s dress, Perfection Bridal Cardiff, www.perfectionbridalcardiff.co.uk | Bride’s shoes, Charlotte Mills, www.charlottemills.com | Dress alterations, Rhiannon J Ltd, www.cardiffalterations.com | Groom’s suit, Dyfed Menswear, www.dyfedmenswear.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, TFNC | Hair stylist, Jc.hairdesign, www.instagram.com/jc.hairdesign | Make-up artists, McKenna Make-up + Skin, www.mckennamakeupandskin.com and Janet White-Ashby & Co., www.janetwhiteashby.co.uk | Cake, Home Farm Kitchen, www.homefarmkitchen.com | Flowers, Love Lily Floral Design Studio, www.love-lily.com | Styling, Dress To Impress by Julie, www.dresstoimpressbyjulie.co.uk | Transport, Cheringham Wedding Cars, www.cheringhamcars.co.uk | Stationery paper, Imagine DIY, www.imaginediy.co.uk | Band, The Indianas, www.theindianas.co.uk | DJ, JP Entertainments, www.jpents.co.uk | Drummers, Dhol Players & Band Baja, www.dholplayersbandbaja.com | String quartet, Unity String Quartet, www.unitystringquartet.co.uk | Photo booth, Ride My Tuk Tuk, www.ridemytuktuk.com | Singer, Katy Treharne, www.wmto.co.uk/about/our-singers/katy-treharne

hired a band called The Indianas and a DJ from JP Entertainments who had the dancefloor full all evening – it was electric!

Based in Merthyr Tydfil, we specialise in flower preservation. A very unique way to cherish special memories forever, incorporating your wedding bouquet into timeless resin keepsakes. Pre-booking is essential and slots are filling fast!

Reserve a slot for your special 2022-2024 date today. Please contact us on 07540 475288 for a consultation.

Cardiff Wedding Disco

The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama is set in the grounds of Cardiff Castle and bordering one of the largest and most beautiful parks in the UK, Bute Park.

Our two unique venues form one of Cardiff’s most sought-after locations for your very special day. Our first is the stunning former Cardiff Castle stables with its historic courtyard and beautiful tree-lined entrance with the castle in view.

The second is our magnificent contemporary glass atrium with floor-to-ceiling windows and open-air terrace overlooking the park – a fabulous back-drop for your photographs and champagne reception – it is also a stunning location for your wedding breakfast and evening celebrations. This leads to an outstanding concert hall and theatre – perfect for a ceremony with a dramatic difference!

As a creative venue, we offer lots of flexibility so that your ceremony, drinks reception, wedding breakfast and evening celebrations suit your style and personalities –from traditional to theatrical, elegant to quirky. We can assist you in arranging a theatrical ceremony on a stage, a summer’s day wedding walk with your guests through the park, a reception with choirs, harpists, jazz trios and string quartets and special lighting and scenery for your evening party.

Whether your dream venue is historic or contemporary, the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama is a unique venue at the heart of Cardiff that is bespoke to you.

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama Castle Grounds Cathays Park Cardiff CF10 3ER View one of Cardiff’s most sought- after locations at: www.rwcmd.ac.uk/who-we-are/hire-us/weddings

Joe Clark Photography

Sacha Miller Photography

Beautifully natural

NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Warm, romantic and modern style Naturally creative , friendly and calming female photographer 6+ years experience photographing weddings

katerichardsphotography.com

Insta & FB @katerichardsphotography

Creative, relaxed and romantic style that focuses on the use of natural light and shadows.

Having developed my skills for over 13 years and capturing over 300 weddings all over Wales & the UK, I shoot real life, captured as you remembered it. My aim is to remind you of all the fun you, your family and all your guests had on your wedding day.

I create classic portraits that are full of life, dramatic and un-posed, with a cinematic timeless feel to them - capturing memories to keep forever.

Visit www.kemradfordphotography.co.uk or contact 07530 680596

PICTURE THIS

Local photographers showcase their favourite images

Your wedding album should be a treasured memento of your big day, so you want it to be packed with fab photos that reflect all of the magical moments. Although fashions may change and hairstyles come and go, the memories are timeless and will be captured forever if you find the right photographer to suit you as a couple. To help get you started, we asked some of South Wales’ professionals to share their favourite wedding photos from throughout the day.

www.photo-graphics-studio.com

www.francescahillphotography.com

“I

www.megan-sianphotography.com

“I adore this photo and most first kiss photographs as I’m not just capturing the moment between two people that have just become husband and wife but look at the bigger picture. Everyone in the room is so happy for the newlyweds and it’s just such a lovely photo filled with happiness and lots of love.” – Megan-Sian Vickery from MeganSian Photography.

THE VOWS

www.paul-daviesphotography.co.uk

www.michellehuggleston.com

“I

www.kemradfordphotography.co.uk

“My

“The bride and groom were nervously giggling throughout the ceremony, and this was seconds after the kiss, and as you can tell, they finally relaxed in those few seconds.”

favourite thing about this shot is that the couple had no idea that this was going on behind them while they were saying their vows.” – Michelle Huggleston from Michelle Huggleston Photography.

– Katie Radford from KEM Radford Photography.

love

how happy the

bride

looks in this

image.” – Francesca Hill from Francesca Hill Photography

love this picture of the groom spontaneously kissing his new bride.” –Paul Davies from Paul Davies Photography.

This picture was taken by Kate Tarnowska from Photo-Graphics Studio at a Beauty and the Beast inspired wedding shoot.

www.francescahillphotography.com

HOLD ME CLOSE

www.kemradfordphotography.co.uk

“My

www.megan-sianphotography.com

“After a day of rain, wet feet and umbrellas, the sky decided to be our friend and show off its best colours. It was just stunning for this amazing couple. I was just about to leave, when I turned back and captured the couple in this beautiful moment.” – Megan-Sian from MeganSian Photography.

www.michellehuggleston.com

“There’s

www.photo-graphics-studio.com www.paul-daviesphotography.co.uk

“This silhouette of the bride and groom is one of my favourite couple shots.” – Paul from Paul Davies Photography.

This picture from Kate at

was

at St Donat’s Castle which is hidden in the Wales countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

something special about a couple trusting a photographer. With only a few minutes left of sunlight, these are some of the last shots I took and some of my favourites.” – Michelle from Michelle Huggleston Photography.

Photo-Graphics Studio

taken

aim is to take natural images and I love this shot because it looks natural and unposed.” – Francesca from Francesca Hill Photography “I love golden hour and had been waiting to do this shot all day. I’ve never known a golden hour shot to suit a couple so much as these two.” – Katie from KEM Radford Photography.

www.francescahillphotography.com

www.kemradfordphotography.co.uk

www.megan-sianphotography.com

“Men always say ‘I don’t like the camera’ or ‘I don’t want too many photos’ but put them in a suit with all their mates and they’re there posing! Having fun is the most important part of your wedding. I’m there to capture the emotions, the serious moments and most importantly the fun.” – Megan-Sian from Megan-Sian Photography.

“The

Kate from PhotoGraphics Studio highlighted the beauty of St Donat’s Castle with this charming picture.

www.photo-graphics-studio.com

pure joy of a groom being surprised by his bride. Everyone goes on about couple photos, and yes, I love them too, but these moments are just as important.”

from Michelle Huggleston Photography.

“The couple trusted a cousin to operate a confetti cannon - madness ensued! He kept setting off the confetti and you can feel the happiness in this moment!” – Katie from KEM Radford Photography.

Francesca from Francesca Hill Photography

Walking in a winter wonderland

Want to plan a seasonal wedding but unsure where to start? We’ve put together a guide to help you create the ultimate celebration

CHOOSING A COLOUR SCHEME

One of the first things you should do is decide on a colour palette. This time of year has some wonderful hues available, including greens, reds, golds, blues and silvers. Choose one or two and stick to them. If you try and include every colour, it may look overwhelming and messy. If you want to go against tradition, an up-and-coming trend that we’ve seen here at County Wedding Magazines HQ is jewel tones. These can add warmth to your venue and can be incorporated into your glassware, candles and cutlery.

DECIDING ON A VENUE

Picking a venue can be overwhelming, especially if you have a restrictive criteria. Look through social media and magazines to get some inspiration, and once you have an idea of how many people you want to attend and the area you want to get married in, you can begin narrowing down your search. The weather, as we all know, can be pretty unpredictable, so if you’re going for an outdoor ceremony, make sure you have a backup plan in case it rains or snows.

Christmas charms, from £45, sterling silver charm bracelet, £55, https://uk.pandora.net/en

Hair accessory, from a selection, www.azazie.com

FINDING THE PERFECT OUTFIT

If you’re tying the knot in the middle of winter, chances are it’s going to be pretty cold. Take this into consideration when choosing your dress, as you might start to feel chilly in a sleeveless gown. Those of you thinking of wearing a suit, choose warm fabrics and colours that will tie in with your theme.

Feather-trim dress, £45, www.dcey.co.uk

Bridal sandals, from a selection, www.davidsbridal.co.uk

ACCESSORISE AND SHINE

Accessories are your best friend when it comes to winter weddings. Do you desperately want a strapless gown but don’t want to freeze? Opt for a cover-up or bolero to keep you warm. These will tie in nicely with your theme and look super cute in those all-important photographs.

KEEP YOUR LOVED ONES WARM

If you’re worried your guests might feel the chill, supply blankets and slippers. A firepit is another way of keeping everyone toasty while also adding a fun element to your day. If you want to take it to the next level, supply some marshmallows – yum!

MUST-HAVE FLOWERS

Whether you opt for an arch, grand centrepieces, an oversized bouquet or a hanging masterpiece, your flowers will create a statement in your photographs. There are a range of wintry blooms to choose from, including roses, ranunculus, berries and much more. With a strong emphasis on eco-friendly weddings, ask your florist if their flowers are grown in the UK and if they use eco-products where possible.

UNDER THE MISTLETOE

If you’re big fans of Christmas like us here at CWM, why not lean into the time of year and incorporate aspects of it into your winter theme? You could add a Christmas tree in your reception room, have festive-coloured bridesmaids’ dresses, use reindeers as table names, give your guests baubles as favours or even ask Santa to come and visit the little ones.

Burnt-orange satin dress, £160, https://wearerewritten.com

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

Food is one of the most important aspects of any wedding, so it’s important to pick something that fits your theme and personalities. With the cold weather outside, think of warming dishes such as soup or a roast dinner. You could serve mulled wine on arrival and create a fun hot chocolate station for the evening.

HOT TOPIC Wedding worries

Our experts solve your problems

AL FRESCO CELEBRATION

My fiancé́ and I have just started looking for our dream outdoor wedding venue. What should we keep in mind before booking?

Before booking an outdoor wedding, we’d recommend keeping in mind different weather conditions, as it can be unpredictable in the UK.

TREND SETTER

What flower trends do you think will be popular in 2023?

Next year, we will see more texture rather than just one type of flower, which will add more interest and depth to bridal bouquets.

We will see brighter colour choices in 2023 with couples mixing pastels with brighter hues, creating pops of colour.

The above will work hand in hand with flower preservation, giving resin blocks and frames more depth and variety to work with.

Emma Cross

www.encapsulatedmemories.com

FESTIVE ROMANCE

We’re getting married near Christmas and want to decorate our venue without going overboard. Do you have any suggestions of how we can incorporate our theme into our big day?

Lighting can really transform a venue, so we recommend an abundance of magical fairylights and candles, if you’re venue allows, to create a romantic atmosphere.

Popular winter colours include blush and burgundy, plum and emerald, navy and gold and muted jewel tones which are particularly popular for bridesmaids’ dresses. Lots of greenery, pinecones and gypsophila are also common around the festive period.

See if you’re venue will provide a Christmas tree and then choose some nice decorations to tie in with your colour scheme. You could even give your guests tree decorations or Christmas crackers as favours, these could double up as name cards too.

There is nothing more inviting than the smell of mulled wine and minced pies, so why offer these as a festive alternative to the standard canapés and fizz on arrival?

Here at Hensol Castle, your outdoor ceremony will take place under our charming bandstand with up to 140 guests comfortably seated under our huge outdoor parasols; making it a perfect ceremony space whether the sun is shining or not.

You will also need to keep in mind that your guests need to be able to hear your vows, without any noise interruptions. So, see if your venue has a built in PA system and microphone.

Getting married outdoors, brides-to-be worry about getting their dress dirty, so keep in mind how far you will need to walk to the ceremony space and that the path is always kept clean and well maintained to avoid this.

The wedding team at Hensol Castle www.hensolcastle.com

The wedding team at King Arthur Hotel www.kingarthurhotel.co.uk

SEARCHING FOR THE ONE

There are so many venues to choose from. How do we decide which one is right for us?

Whether you’re newly engaged or just starting to plan your wedding –congratulations! It’s not an easy task deciding on a wedding venue, and there’s lots to consider. Here are some tips on how to decide which venue is right for you:

Budget – Make sure the venues you’re looking at cater to your budget. You don’t want to be fall in love with something fantastic and it turns out to be totally out of your price range!

Location – Your big day is about you, but you want your nearest and dearest to celebrate with you too, so keep in mind the location and make sure it’s accessible for those who you love dearly.

Capacity – If you have a big family and lots of friends, make sure the venues you’re searching for can accommodate your wedding party. Does it suit you both? Organising a wedding that shows off both your personalities will make the best photographs and ensure your guests have a great day.

The whole package – Make sure you know what is included in the price, and what you are getting for your money. Some venues may charge extra for furniture such as tables and chairs or little things that will soon add up, like chair covers and sashes.

WALKING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND

We’re looking for a venue that will be able to help us achieve our Christmas-themed wedding. What should we ask the wedding team before booking?

What a fabulous time for a wedding! Spirits are high, venues are looking extra glamorous, and you may even get a touch of snow –it’s an excellent season to book. If you can, make time to visit some venues the Christmas or two before your ideal date, so you can get a feel for the atmosphere in person. If you have to look out of season, make sure you ask to see photos or videos of how the venue is decorated during the festive season. Once you’ve done this, ask your venue the following questions:

The

What colour theme do they stick to, so you can ensure your own decorations tie in nicely with theirs?

Is the menu affected by Christmas? For example, sweet treats are often switched from things like Welsh cakes to mince pies.

A practical question that will really impact the quality of your day is how do they heat the venue when the temperature drops?

Lastly, ask your planner to share stories from previous couples’ Christmas weddings. They should be brimming with ideas and have lots of creative solutions to help you achieve the day of your dreams.

The wedding team at Craig Y Nos Castle www.craigynoscastleweddings.com

wedding team at Venue Wales https://venuewales.co.uk/wedding-2

What day could be more special than your wedding day, or the wedding day of a family member or friend?

That’s why we want it to be perfect for you, and we’ve made many days perfect for many people. Here at Shappelles Function Suite, we can help your whole day go smoothly so that all you need to worry about is arriving on time (or maybe slightly late if you’re the bride)!

Our totally private facility and staff will be at your disposal to ensure your wedding day runs smoothly and memorable. After enjoying your silver service wedding breakfast you will be able to relax in our beautiful grounds while waiting for the evening guests to arrive.

We can also offer a first dance option, you can come along and we will choreograph a simple routine to your chosen song.

Meet the experts

Baroque Boutique is run by mother and daughter team, Marion and Coryn. The boutique specialises in designer wear, accessories, hats and shoes for the mother-of-the-bride and groom and outfits for wedding guests. With her daughter, Coryn, experienced in the wedding industry and into fashion, Marion decided to use her commercial experience to create a new business.

When the opportunity to lease a large premises in a former wedding dress shop became available in the Abergavenny high street, their vision became a reality. Using her creative skills, Coryn transformed the space into a luxury highend designer boutique and Baroque Boutique opened its doors to the public in January 2013.

Since launching, the pair have managed to secure top designer brands and continued to build on their reputation in the wedding industry and their excellent customer service. They host and exhibit at regular events across the country and have a wonderful team. They have also won several industry awards, including the accolade for Best Occasion Wear in Wales for five years running and have excellent customer reviews.

With their 10-year anniversary approaching in the new year, their mission is the same today: to give mothers, family members and wedding guests a huge amount of choice when looking for an outfit for their special occasion.

FORMAL HIRE WALES TARTAN CENTRES, SA5 8JF 01792 474 685 | www.formal-hire.com and www.welsh-tartan.com

Formal Hire Wales Tartan Centres is a menswear specialist based in Swansea. The managing director, Tony Collins tells us more about the company: “After two very difficult years for the wedding industry in South Wales, here at Formal Hire Wales Tartan Centres we are pleased to have not just survived the challenges associated with COVID-19 postponements but seen the business grow substantially!

“Exciting investment in new suit styles and tartans has created new interest in hiring and purchasing for weddings and other functions during 2022. Our home hire service has been busier than ever with more and more customers opting to use this measure at home service, with delivery and collection to their house. This is available anywhere in Wales and our vans have travelled just about every road in 2022.

“Wedding exhibitions have returned for face-to-face enquiries and appointments and slowly but surely the wedding industry is becoming a little calmer and what we would all consider normal based on years of experience in the wedding trade. Companies who struggled have sadly gone, and new or established businesses have stepped in and the professionalism we have all been used to as traders is there again for brides and grooms to benefit from for their big day. So, confidence is certainly back in Welsh weddings, there aren’t many left this year but 2023 and 2024 already look buoyant and positive! We have new brochures out to buy or hire suits and Welsh kilts so get in touch to find out more. We look forward to meeting you and helping you! Please check out our customer reviews in the meantime and thank you so much to our loyal customers for their continued support.”

WILD AND FABULOUS FLOWERS, CF71 7LR 07802 438 299 | www.wildandfabulousflowers.com

Wild and Fabulous Flowers specialises in weddings, events, farewell flowers and bespoke bouquets. The team also host floral workshops, flower crown parties and have a weekly flowers service.

Owner, Rhian Rees tells us more about the company: “From the moment I had my first garden, flowers have been my joy and passion. After training and working as a landscape designer for 16 years, I discovered floristry. I have trained with the Bath Flower School and The White Horse Flower Company. I now love creating natural florals in a sustainable way that people can enjoy just as much as I do.

“We create beautiful, naturally-styled flowers. We work with you to ensure you have the wedding flowers you will remember forever. It’s your chance to style your wedding exactly as you want it, and we are here to guide and help you create the wedding of your dreams.

“From creating large floral installations to table centrepieces, buttonholes, flower crowns and floral headpieces, we can provide everything you need. We can also advise and help you style your venue. It’s what we love doing!

“We hold floral workshops such as Christmas wreaths and hand-tied bouquets in our beautiful Victorian orangery. Flower crown hen or birthday parties are great fun, and we can even organise caterers.

“We feel passionately about supporting our local flower farmers. They work so hard, and we want to share how incredible their flowers are. So, every week you can pop over and pick up a bouquet of local flowers during the growing season or we deliver locally for free. Out of season we source our flowers in the most sustainable way we can.”

ALL

All About Eve Bridal is a bridal boutique in Newport offering wedding gowns and mother-of-thebride and groom dresses. The sales and marketing manager, Vicki Anthony, tells us more: “We love making incredible memories for you and your bridal party. Choosing your wedding dress is a once in a lifetime experience and we would love to make that part of your journey something for you to remember forever. We have more than 20 years of experience in dressing brides, All About Eve has stood the test of time and this is all thanks to our wonderful team, who really do go above and beyond and the ongoing support of our amazing customers.

“Back in 2002, Margaret Waite opened All About Eve, at number 3 Clytha Park Road, just three doors down from where our store is today. Margaret was an experienced bridal retailer having worked for many wedding dress shops in her career. In 2007 Margaret, at the age of 60, really wanted to retire so tentatively marketed All About Eve for sale. I was looking for a change in career and at the time was looking for my wedding dress too, so mum and I thought, let’s open a wedding dress shop. We saw All About Eve for sale and the rest, as they say, is history. We have loved every minute of our venture and we could not imagine doing anything else.

“Eight years ago, an exciting opportunity came our way. Above our previous shop is a huge space, previously offices and a ground floor retail unit, which was five times bigger than the size of the old shop. We took the plunge and moved to number 7 Clytha Park Road; it was definitely worth taking the risk.

“The space we now occupy is vast, there are six enormous private fitting suites, with a private changing area and a viewing area to reveal your wedding dress to your family and friends. You will have a huge, gorgeous mirror just for you. We now have six wedding dress display rooms, this means that we can present our gorgeous wedding dresses, all 300 of them in individual showrooms.

“We have a variety of wedding dress styles from boho to elegant and sophisticated, classic and traditional and young and modern. We also pride ourselves on having the most beautiful selection of plus size wedding dresses in South Wales. On the ground floor, we have a dedicated mother-of-thebride and groom boutique with its own private fitting suite. With up to 300 outfits, let us help your mum and mother-in-law, find a fabulous outfit and a perfect, showstopping hat or hatinator to complete the look.

“Our bridal boutique is huge, but it is homely, and we love people to make themselves at home and be part of the All About Eve family. Trust us with the most precious dress you will ever wear and let us make choosing your wedding dress an exciting and memorable experience. Pop the bubbly at our exclusive Gin and Fizz bar and celebrate this extra special experience with your nearest and dearest!”

WHAT LIES BENEATH

Have fun in feathers on your wedding night in this cute pink babydoll, £300, https://gildapearl.co.uk

Editor’s favourite

Celebrate this Christmas in these champagne bottle beaded earrings, £14.99, https://teamhen.co.uk

FASHION

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

focus

DANCING QUEEN

These leather strappy shoes, £495, will guarantee style down the aisle! https://uk.chelseaparis.com

Raising the bra

Known for the Wonderbra, Gossard’s new collection for spring 2023 offers some beautiful bridal pieces including this Superboost white lace bralet, £41, and matching tanga briefs, £18,

THANKS, MUM!

Surprise the leading lady in your life with this pretty floral pink watch, £106, Coach at www.watchshop.com

Editor loves

These black leather jackets emblazoned with the slogans Till Death Do Us Part and Hitched are from www.nastygal.com/gb

WITH THIS RING

These 18-carat gold diamond engagement rings are from the new Artisan Collection by www.lebrusanstudio.com which uses Fairmined ecological gold and ocean diamonds. The collection is quintessential by design, characterised by slender gold bands, elevated claw settings and one-carat round brilliant-cut central diamonds along with the option for intricate hand-engraving on request. Variations include a classic solitaire, a trilogy design and a band set with small shoulder diamonds. “The most beautiful jewellery is jewellery that tells stories,” the team at Lebrusan Studio tells us.

LUCKY CHARM

These fashionable necklaces with charms, including a jewelled horseshoe known for good fortune, are from the new collection by www.orelia.co.uk

www.rosaclara.es/en-gb

www.airebarcelona.com/en-gb

A touch of colour www.jennypackham.com

It’s an illusion www.dcey.co.uk

The thigh’s the limit www.azazie.com

Bow-tiful details www.halfpennylondon.com

Suited and booted www.temperleylondon.com Unveiled www.elbethgillis.com

Sugar plum www.truebride.co.uk/733/Brighton-Belle

Cape crusader www.truebride.co.uk

Amateur dramatics

www.truebride.co.uk/11/Nicki-Flynn-by-True-Bride

Glamour girlwww.jjshouse.co.uk

Dare to wear denim www.davidsbridal.co.uk

Pastel hues for the little lovelies www.quinnharper.co.uk

Pnina Tornai for www.azazie.com

Pearl earrings, £170, and necklace, £190, Ray Makes Things at https://pearlsandpomegranates.com

Gemstone ring, £250, www.augustinejewels.com

Engraved necklaces, from £34 each, https://wanderlustlife.co.uk/collections/engravable-pendants

Shine like

A DIAMOND

Dazzle

this festive season in gold, pearls, diamonds and charms

Pearl earrings, £89, https://lilyandroo.com

Gold-plated bracelet, £150, Christmas tree charm, from £45, https://uk.pandora.net/en

Crystal necklace, from a selection, www.whistles.com

14-carat yellow gold bracelet with diamonds, £362, https://uk.vrai.com

Silver necklace, £60, 9-carat gold necklace, £200, www.wildfawnjewellery.com

Gold lily of the valley headpiece, £825, https://racheltrevormorgan.com

Pearl earrings, £85, https://gaala.com

SEARCHING FOR THE ONE

I’m nervous about my first bridal appointment. What should I expect and take with me?

It’s easier said than done, we know, but try not to worry about your first dress appointment. This time is meant to be magical and stressfree, so let yourself be taken care of and leave your worries and doubts at the door.

When considering what to bring with you, it’s vital that you have an open mindset. Without which, you may struggle to see beyond a concrete look that you have in mind, and, more often than not, brides leave having bought a completely different dress than the one they initially had in mind. Despite this, it may be useful to your stylist if you were to bring images of your favourite styles, necklines and silhouettes that you have seen online or in magazines.

Finally, it’s important that you bring with you a carefully-picked entourage. We would ideally recommend that you bring no more than four guests, to avoid an overwhelming influx of opinions. Whilst it’s always nice to get the advice of your nearest and dearest, keep in mind that this dress is for you, and it should ultimately be your decision. Remember to bring yourself, a smile, and high energy!

The team at All About Eve Bridal Ltd www.allaboutevebridalwear.com

Q&A Fashion

Our

AUTUMN HUES

My mum has chosen a gorgeous burnt orange dress for our autumn wedding but she’s panicking about how to accessorise it. What looks are popular at the moment?

Burnt orange is a beautiful choice for autumn weddings. Here at Baroque Boutique, we believe simplicity is key when it comes to accessorising. Metallic gold, silver or bronze would work perfectly without taking anything away from the dress. Always lift up with colour, for example match your hat colour to your dress colour, as this will help elongate your figure.

Coryn Emma www.baroqueboutique.co.uk

local expert offer advice on how to look your big-day best

3044 by Gill Harvey

LUXURY BEAUTY LIVE

The Bridal Beauty Festival takes place twiceyearly in the heart of London and features many of the beauty and wellness world’s biggest brands, all there to talk to you about you and your wedding. With live workshops, expert talks, guest appearances and even incredible live music, it’s the place to be if you’re thinking about your big-day look.

I visited the event in September at the luxurious Rosewood London and it was packed with plenty of my favourite brands. On the beauty and cosmetics side there were such titans as Charlotte Tilbury, Pixi, Laura Mercier and Bobbi Brown, while Penhaligons and The Wedding Scent Edit were on hand to talk big-day fragrances. The latter showcased an impressive array of highend perfumes from brands such as Juliette has a gun Parfums, Parle Moi De Parfum, Atelier Materi, Maison Crivelli and Mizensir. They were arranged in an inspired edit according to your wedding day vibe, be it elegant, beach, boho and more. I took home a sample of Une Tonne De Roses by Parle Moi De Parfum and have been receiving complements every time I wear it – highly recommended. In fact, I’m a huge fan of floral fragrances and also fell in love with Penhaligons’ Elisabethan Rose.

Experts were on hand from each brand offering complimentary makeovers, trials and tips for those with questions. I couldn’t tear myself away from the programme of talks taking place throughout the day. These included A Pixi Perfect Glowing Bridal Masterclass, Bridal Scenting with Carolina Herrera, Create a Radiant Wedding-Day Look with Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, and Beauty Complex: Skin, Hair and Nails with Dr Anita. I learnt a thing or two myself! My top tip gathered on the day was to always look down into a mirror when applying mascara. You’ll catch more of your lashes and are far less likely to get product all over your eyelid.

Check out the video above for some masterclass inspiration from Carolina Herrera and Bobbi Brown, and look out for the super-stylish customisable lipsticks from the new Caroline Herrera make-up range. You can choose your own cap design, bangle, charm and tassel for the ultimate wedding-day handbag accessory for on-the-day touch ups.

The next Bridal Beauty Festival is due to take place in October 2023, so keep an eye on the website for tickets to this must-visit event, www.thebridalbeautyfestival.com

TIME TO UNCLOG

In need of a skin detox? Check out Unplug, a new stick face mask from Skin Proud. Formulated with sebum-absorbing white clay, moisturising amino acid and a free-radical fighting active, this powerful mask detoxes the skin, while hydrating sesame oil balances and provides a hit of hydration. £12.95, www.iamproud.com

BUZZBeauty

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

PEEL POWER

Dr. Craft launched its sustainable mandarin skincare range recently and what makes this a world first is the use of mandarin peel. There’s currently no commercial use for it meaning 10 million tonnes are incinerated and wasted annually. However, the range’s creator, Professor Richard Blackburn, an expert in green chemistry, has been able to harvest the peel’s extract and produce this exciting range of products including the Soothing Cream Cleanser (£18), Gentle Brightening Exfoliator (£20), Purifying Toning Mist (£18), and Antioxidant Rescue Serum (£26). Bioflavonoid ingredients promote skin repair, soothe the complexion and have anti-inflammatory benefits. They also prevent oxidative stress, a type of environmental skin damage caused by pollution and UV rays. Find out more at https://drcraft.co.uk

KIND AND CARING

Our skin is the largest organ in the body and the first line of defence from environmental threats and lifestyle stress, but its barrier is a delicate balance of natural lipids, which without care, can become compromised. Olverum’s diligently-crafted solution to effective, gentle cleansing is a combination of botanical mastery and scientific know-how. The new Body Cleanser contains an innovative formula that’s been five years in development. Created for dry or dehydrated skin, it’s soap and sulphate-free and features a complex of five mild surfactants, derived from sugar, amino acids and responsibly-sourced coconut and palm. It turns into a dense, luxurious lather when wet and cleanses the body while respecting the skin, to leave it soft, supple and nourished with avocado oil. What’s more, its heavenly aromatic blend of essential oils, synonymous with Olverum’s hero products, helps to ease stress and relax tension. £26.50, www.olverum.com

A RESTORATIVE SLEEP

It’s a well-know fact when it comes to skin that sleep is a great beauty ally, but did you know this also applies to our hair? During the night, the release of the hormone melatonin allows our tresses, as well as our skin, to regenerate. Consequently, its in ideal condition to receive a stronger dose of nutrition than during the day and so your night-time routine is essential.

Christophe Robin has developed a new nighttime ritual composed of two treatments targeting different types of damaged hair: The Night Recovery Cream with White Lotus Flower formulated for fine to medium damaged hair, and the Night Recover Monoi with White Lotus Flower for medium to thick damaged hair. Apply to dry, freshly brushed locks before you going to bed, working in sections from root to end. Wrap, leave overnight and rinse and shampoo in the morning, by which time the beauty of your hair, deeply nourished, is revealed. £35, www.christopherobin.com

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT

After agriculture the beauty industry uses the most water. On average a bottle of shampoo contains 70 per cent water with around 90 per cent in conditioner. So, pioneering new beauty brand We Are Concentrate is on a mission to create sustainable and essential products using as little water and plastic as possible. No water is added to the production process and with only a marble-sized amount needed per hair wash, these concentrated pastes contain all the actives and benefits of traditional haircare products, without any of the added water. Plus, to make sure nothing goes to waste, the tubes can be paired with a squeezer and shower hanger to ensure every last drop is used. We Are Concentrate Shampoo and Conditioner are both priced at £14 and can be found at www.weareconcentrate.com

AN EYE FOR ROMANCE

Founded by MUA Karla Powell, Karla Cosmetics creates handmade, on trend, colour-shifting eyeshadows and has recently launched its Romance Quad Palette – get ready to fall in love! Two years in the making, this innovative palette combines velvety-soft matte eyeshadows with the brand’s best-selling multichrome opal shades seen in pressed formula for the first time.

Inspired by all things romance and love, these shadows evoke passion with complementary warm pinks, cherry-hues and deep burgundies taking you all the way from fun and flirty to sultry siren. Meanwhile, the formula means the product glides on with ease, and the ultrapigmented rich tones give minimum fall out and maximum impact. £69, www.karlastore.co.uk

GOT YOU COVERED

BACK TO BLACK

High-performance make-up brand Illamasqua has launched the limited-edition Amy Winehouse Camden Collection as part of its ongoing partnership with The Amy Winehouse Foundation.

The new collection features exciting products inspired by Amy’s iconic looks and individuality, while celebrating the spirit of Camden, the borough she so loved. It boasts seven new and exclusive Illamasqua products including Nail Tint, Amy Black (£14); Matte Nail Varnish, Amy

Soundcheck (£15); and Face Duo, Double Trouble (£32). I love the Wet Liquid Liner, No, No, No (£21), which allows you to create that perfect cat-eye

bridal vibe, then finish the look with a pop of red lippy, Ultramatter Lipstick in

Continuing the no-filter beauty revolution, Sisley has revealed a new concealer. Hailed as a one-of-a-kind product it offers a new way to enhance natural beauty. The texture offers lightweight full coverage that blends in so well it’s virtually undetectable, and the smart doubleended format features a fine tip for precise application with a foam tip for blending. Its soft-focus effect and immediate radiance leave the skin looking more even and disguise any pigmentation flaws. So you can say “so long” to dilated pores, spots, fine lines, roughness, dark spots and redness. It conceals without drying out the skin, and with continued use can even benefit the complexion since alpha-bisabolol of natural origin is soothing. This is a must-have if you’re striving for that flawless bridal look. £46, www.sisley-paris.com

a

(£17). Check out www.illamasqua.com

Red (£14); Lip Tint, Amy Black (£20); Brow Pencil,

flick for

vintage

Amy Red

SKIN FOOD

Discover how to achieve that much-desired bridal glow the natural way, through a healthy diet of skin-loving foods

Flawless, blemish-free skin is high on the priority list for many brides wanting to look and feel their big-day best. There’s a world of popular skincare advice out there from variations on the daily three-step routine to alternative products, but the impact that food has on our long-term skin health is often overlooked.

Healthy skin is a sign of a healthy body so it’s worth knowing what foods can help protect, nourish and encourage a gorgeous complexion. County Wedding Magazines’ beauty editor Kelly Andrews chatted to expert nutritionists Minal Sudra and Elizabeth Andrews from Wedding Wellness to find out more. Here, they share their skin-loving food suggestions to help you glow from the inside out.

BERRIES

Berries such as blackberries, blueberries, acia and strawberries are some of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. A rich source of antioxidants and vitamins, consuming a handful of these little treasures regularly can help reduce oxidative damage that may contribute to signs of ageing. Mix up the colour and types you eat to get a variety of phytonutrients.

OLIVE OIL

Fats are often associated with high cholesterol and weight gain, however certain fats are essential for good health, namely Omega 3 and 6 found in olive oil. With its anti-inflammatory properties it can help to calm damage in the body, boost brain health, contribute to effective hormone production and maintain healthy cell function, while supporting the skin’s natural barrier, leaving it looking dewy and nourished.

NUTS AND SEEDS

Vitamin E is widely used in skincare products due to its powerful antioxidant capabilities. It does this by safely trapping free radicals that otherwise cause damage within the body. By acting as a mediator between harmful substances and our natural defence systems, it can help calm irritation and redness, prevent blemishes and protect against environmental damage. The oils naturally found in sunflower seeds along with other nuts and seeds such as almonds and pumpkin seeds, are a great source of vitamin E for the skin.

CARROTS

The chemical compound or phytonutrient that gives carrots their vibrant colour is known as carotene, a powerful antioxidant. This is a natural form of vitamin A that supports the growth and quality of new cells, contributing to healthy skin cell renewal and helping to achieve that post-facial glow. When eaten with a healthy fat such as butter or olive oil, carrots will help the body to absorb vitamin A more efficiently.

TURMERIC

One of the best-known superfoods, turmeric is a powerhouse of medicinal properties beyond skin care. It’s a great spice to include in meals or hot drinks in the winter to fight against infection. Interestingly, it’s a traditional custom for an Indian bride to have a paste made with turmeric applied to her skin, helping to promote a calm, natural glow for the main event. Turmeric is also a great natural remedy sometimes used topically to treat skin blemishes and acne.

ROCKET

Rough, dry, congested skin may be a sign of toxin build up. Cruciferous vegetables such as rocket, aid the liver to detoxify the body and help eliminate the build up of toxins that can present as outbreaks on the skin. Dark greens such as rocket also contain chlorophyll, which is also one of the best-known antioxidants found in food, further protecting the skin from breakouts and damage.

CUCUMBER

Foods that are high in water such as cucumber, are a great way to keep the body hydrated. Water helps the body to naturally flush away toxins that can result in breakouts if left harbouring. Water also aids the gut in functioning normally and prevents constipation, which if left unmanaged, has direct implications with the skin. Other foods that are high in water and will help you to help stay hydrated include watermelon, grapefruit, grapes and celery. What’s more, these foods also contain fibre that further support gut health, and vitamin C to help brighten and protect the skin further.

Wedding

www.wedding-wellness.co.uk

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS

Wellness offers bespoke services for brides 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

WIN A MINI-MOON WORTH UP TO £2,000

GuestHouse is an independent hospitality group renowned for its one-off, wonder-filled hotels. Home to relaxing suites and bedrooms, heavenly spas and never-tried-that-before dishes, the hotels have a few things in common, but always guarantee their own unique charm varied by the cities they’re a part of.

Recently awarded Best City Hotel by The Good Hotel Guide, No.15 by GuestHouse in Bath, Somerset, is a boutique property occupying a trio of Grade I listed town houses in a Georgian terrace. Home to eclectic rooms with a touch of whimsy, the 36-bedroom townhouse is located on one of Bath’s grandest streets in one of Britain’s greatest cities. Full of heritage and vibrant creative spirit, the hotel reflects its location in its interior design, art and objects steal and entertain the eye. The bar and restaurant offer something different yet decidedly British, the spa nurtures real relaxation, and the hotel’s hosts making sure every guest feels happy and at home. There’s a record player in every room along with a record library in the hotel – perfect for recreating your first dance on your honeymoon!

Heading North of the country, No.1 by GuestHouse is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of the noble city of York just a 10-minute walk from York Minster. Inside, you’ll find lovable bedrooms, a locally inspired restaurant and a seriously soothing spa. The building is a Grade II listed Regency townhouse of stately proportions and headturning façade. It has huge, dreamy sash windows, high ceilings, a

sweeping central staircase, and ivy around the door. Its grand-but-friendly face is full of charm. Inside you’ll find pantries stocked full of treats for the taking, great restaurant food throughout the day, delicious drinks from the bar, a spa centered on bespoke therapies and a straight-from-the-heart warm welcome.

GuestHouse hotels are perfect not only for couples, but kids and furry friends to boot! Youngest guests have been carefully thought about to keep them entertained and happy with things like in-room tipi hideouts, their very own goodies menu and out-and-about instant cameras to use. Check out www.guesthousehotels.co.uk

THE PRIZE

County Wedding Magazines’ readers have the chance to win a twonight stay with breakfast at No.1 York or No.15 Bath including: a bottle of English sparkling wine on arrival, sparkling afternoon tea for two on one day, pre-dinner cocktails and dinner for two with a bottle of wine one evening, and a GuestHouse signature spa treatment for two.

To win, answer this following question and head online to enter at www.yoursouthwales.wedding

Last year, Rotary Watches partnered with Prostate Cancer UK to launch the hugely successful 1IN8 watch, a limited edition timepiece that drew attention to how one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Now, Rotary Watches has introduced the next chapter in its twoyear partnership with the men’s health charity: the Limited Edition 1IN4 watch.

Designed to raise awareness, the new Limited Edition 1IN4 watch has been launched in collaboration with property expert, writer and TV presenter, Kunle Barker.

With only 1,000 pieces made, Rotary will donate 10 per cent + VAT from the sale of every 1IN4 watch to Prostate Cancer UK, which will go towards helping more men understand their prostate cancer risk and what they can do about it.

The Limited Edition 1IN4 is available at www.rotarywatches.com

Hop from Barbados to India and across to Thailand with the 24 Days of Rum advent calendar. Hidden behind the calendar’s 24 doorways are 20ml glass bottles of premium rum – the perfect treat for the groom-to-be. To set you up for a month of tantalising tipples, also included in the box are two glasses and a tasting sheet for keeping note of your favourite rums.

You will also have access to the interactive micro-site which provides background on the production processes as well as the rum’s country of origin, ABV and age. You can also get involved by rating each rum and taking part in interactive discussions and Q&As.

Find out more at www.24daysofrum.com

Grooms’

Grooms editor Melissa Cullen reveals the latest best buys and product

launches

The new Seiko Presage

Craftsmanship Series includes the beautiful Urushi Dial Watch which comes with a limited edition green dial. Inspired by the Kenrokuen Gardens, a vast and beautiful space located in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan, this watch blends history and artistry to create a special design ideal for someone’s special day.

The enamel dial was used on Japan’s first wristwatch and the high-quality texture captures a feeling of warmth from its soft sheen. Visit www.seikoboutique.co.uk for more information.

Thayers Natural Remedies’ toner is now available in Britain. It’s known and loved for its skin balancing and hydrating properties, as well as for its natural approach and herbal infusions. Suitable for all skin types, the carefully curated collection of alcohol-free toners and mists have each been made with 98 per cent natural origin ingredients, and they’re all certified cruelty

Not only are Thayer’s products clinically proven to be non-comedogenic and gentle, but they also provide all-day hydration and maintain the skin’s moisture barrier – as well as promising to never dry skin out. Each product has undergone a clinical study by dermatologists, proving that they’re effective and non-irritating for most skin types.

The alcohol-free toner collection is launching in the UK in a variety of scents, including rose petals, cucumber and coconut.

Visit www.instagram.com/thayersnatural for more information.

Tom Ford Beauty has announced its new Enigmatic Woods Collection.

Made up of three scents, Santal Blush, Bois Marocain and Ébène Fumé, each is designed to celebrate ancient and treasured woods.

Santal Blush is a textured fusion of sandalwood and spices enhanced with luxe ylang ylang and warm cinnamon.

The stimulating Bois Marocain evokes the earthy treasure of Thuya wood and the artisans who sculpt with the mystical material. Known for its molten aroma, the scent uncoils powerfully, facetted with the spicy freshness of pink peppercorn and cedarwood.

Ébène Fumé is a meditative scent that celebrates the essence of Palo Santo. Smokestoked by the warm elegance of cistus, black pepper, and notes of ebony wood, captured in sleek, sublime notes of leather.

Check out www.tomford.co.uk for more information.

The latest seasonal must-haves for the groom-to-be

Favourbrook, Winnington Midnight Jacket, £1,100, www.favourbrook.com

Favourbrook, White Poplin Cotton Wedding Shirt, £125, www.favourbrook.com

Favourbrook, Black Douppion Bow Tie, £75, www.favourbrook.com

Favourbrook, Midnight Hampton Wool Flat Front Dress Trousers, £260, www.favourbrook.com

Tateossian Cufflinks, £229, www.tateossian.com

Red and White Floral Patterned Tie, £17, www.azazie.com

Tommy Hilfiger Watch, £189, www.watchshop.com

Unisex Calvin Klein Watch, £179, www.watchshop.com

Taylor & Wright Surrey Slim Fit Suit Waistcoat, £28, www.matalan.co.uk

Favourbrook, Burgandy Velvet Newport Jacket, £650, www.favourbrook.com

Favourbrook, Burgandy Velvet Cotton Flat Front Trouser, £240, www.favourbrook.com

Favourbrook, White Poplin Cotton Wedding Shirt, £125, www.favourbrook.com

Favourbrook, Black Douppion Bow Tie, £75, www.favourbrook.com

Fox & Chave Wellington Boots Silk Tie, £35, www.foxandchave.com

Man & Bear Personalised Brass and Walnut Cufflinks, £85, www.manandbear.co.uk

M&Co Men’s Brown Reversible Belt, £18, www.mandco.com

Dune London Burnished Leather Monk Shoes, £125, www.dunelondon.com

Jaeger Black Smart Trousers, www.jaeger.co.uk

Travel editor Melissa Cullen reveals new openings and honeymoon essentials

HONEYMOONNews

ATHENS, GREECE

The newly-opened Gatsby Athens Hotel brings a new lease of life and avant-garde design to a previously derelict building in the historical centre of Athens. Adding a renewed energy to the Greek capital, this contemporary boutique hotel balances sophisticated design and personalised, attentive service with exciting food, beverage and entertainment offerings.

First opening in Autumn 2021, Gatsby Athens Hotel has become Athens’ premium gathering place. The all-day restaurant is the main social hub of the hotel, and the rooftop garden offers a casual-cool vibe, welcoming couples to dine with stunning panoramic views and a glimpse of the Acropolis.

All rooms provide state-of-the-art technology, smart TVs or tablets, Alexa devices, king-sized beds, walk-in showers, in-room bathtubs, luxury linen, bathrobes and impressive artwork. Upgraded rooms come with a Juliet balcony or terrace with a private seating area, an outdoor cinema and hot tub.

Discover more at www.gatsbyathens.com

TAMPA, FLORIDA

The Tampa EDITION, a new hotel in Florida, is the city’s first five-star experience, revealing a high level of sophistication, originality and design alongside the personal, intimate, and individual experience that the EDITION brand is known for.

Spread over 26 stories, there are 172 rooms and 38 private residences, a rooftop terrace with a pool, an expansive spa and wellness facility, a fitness center, and seven bars and restaurants, including a signature offering from Michelin-starred chef, John Fraser.

From the outside, The Tampa EDITION is a striking addition to the Water Street Tampa neighbourhood, its combination of industrial elements, Art Deco-inspired curves and lush greenery seamlessly blends into the neighbourhood’s organic, wellness-focused ethos. Defined by a vertical tower which houses the residences, with wraparound balconies that update the traditional idea of a Florida room, and an outdoor garden in the sky, the building is anchored by the lower nine floors, which comprise of the hotel’s guest rooms and public spaces.

Check out www.editionhotels.com/tampa for more information.

CRETE, GREECE

Situated on Crete’s tranquil coast, CAYO Exclusive Resort & Spa is launching a new mini-moon package for newlyweds seeking a laid-back romantic retreat to begin married life. The three-night stay includes dining on a gourmet Cretan cuisine by candlelight, an indulgent couples’ spa treatment inspired by ancient Greek wellness practices and a traditional Melokarido ritual with walnuts and honey, all while staying in a spacious room with a private pool overlooking the shimmering Mirabello Bay.

Couples at CAYO can enjoy the resort at their own pace, away from the crowds of Crete thanks to the hotel’s design, which prioritises privacy and seclusion. Each room and suite feature its own serene pool, set on a spacious outdoor terrace with views over the glistening Mediterranean. Rooms are accessed by private entrances, and couples can enjoy a romantic in-room breakfast courtesy of the resort’s 24-hour room service. Visit www.cayoresort.com for more information.

MÉRIBEL, FRANCE

Exclusive to the Fish&Pips collection, Chalet Le Cygne is a new four-bedroom apartment perfectly located to access the centre of Meribel and Courchevel.

The contemporary alpine apartment sleeps eight guests comfortably with plenty of spacious communal areas and boasts a sauna, private hammam, underfloor heating throughout and breathtaking panoramic mountain views.

Head over to www.fishandpips.co.uk/chalets/chalet-le-cygne for more information.

Nikolas Koenig

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam, located in the heart of the city, is in the final stage of an extensive renovation as part of its transition to join the luxury hotel brand. The hotel’s refurbished rooms and suites embrace a contemporary style with Anantara signature touches, whilst celebrating Dutch heritage and the infamous canals. The interior sees the guest rooms and suites swathed in luxury tones and soft, tactile fabrics that create warmth and texture.

In keeping with Anantara’s wellness philosophies, the new Anantara Spa offers a warm, local welcome with premium products. With its relaxation area overlooking the Summer Garden, a charming outdoor space tucked away within the hotel, the spa’s design is influenced by the country’s costal dunes, with tranquil interiors incorporating natural wood and stone to help guests achieve the utmost state of relaxation.

The hotel’s team has created a programme of local experiences that enable guests to fully immerse themselves in the rich culture. Whether it be uncovering Amsterdam’s best kept culinary hideaways or exploring the wonderful fishing village of Volendam, couples will be spoilt for choice.

For more info, visit www.anantara.com/en/grand-hotel-krasnapolsky-amsterdam

HUA HIN, THAILAND

Regarded as one of the best resort hotels in Southeast Asia and the 35th best place to stay in the world according to the prestigious Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2022, the new Standard, Hua Hin is the brand’s first seaside retreat in Thailand. Nestled in a lush landscape and tropical environment on Hua Hin’s most famous beach strip, the hotel boasts a fresh, contemporary and mid-century design.

With a colourful collection of 199 rooms, suites, and villas, ranging from standard to private pool villas, couples can enjoy an enticing range of food and beverages. The resort also offers one-of-a-kind culinary and cocktail experiences at four on-site restaurants and bars, seamlessly paired with an innovative spa program that melds the traditional with the alternative.

Wellness is at the heart of The Standard, Hua Hin, offering individuals a hideaway haven to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy a range of treatments to reinvigorate the senses. All done in an effortless and playful environment, the spa offers a serene but colourful setting where guests can choose from a variety of experiences that incorporate traditional Thai elements, but also fun moments such as the Mud Lounge, where couples can cover themselves in healing clay.

Visit www.standardhotels.com for more information.

SURREY, UK

After a short time away, The Drummond at Albury has opened its doors once again with a new menu. This classic English inn, situated in the village of Albury in the heart of the glorious Surrey Hills, is officially welcoming new and old faces alike back to its sociable bar, interior and freshly-landscaped riverside garden.

“The beauty of The Drummond is that you can pull up a chair literally anywhere, inside or out, and enjoy a bite to eat, a well-made cocktail or a glass of awardwinning wine from our extensive list,” says general manager, Dan Arrow. “We serve inventive dishes made with quality ingredients that are inspired by the seasons from our talented head chef, Abi Sims.”

CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA

Blue Apple Beach, a boutique hotel and beach club on the island of Tierra Bomba, Colombia, is now offering couples the chance to discover the enchanting city of Cartagena from its beach-side base. At the forefront of current trends, the property’s twin city and beach experience has been thoughtfully created for those who are eager to hit the road as the world enters a new era of exploration. Ranging from urban culinary journeys to active beach adventures, this new immersive programme captures the essence of Cartagena whilst allowing couples to connect with nature, discover the local culture and participate in responsible tourism from the nearby island of Tierra Bomba.

Only a 30-minute speedboat ride from the city, couples can enjoy the best of Cartagena’s fantastic boutiques, restaurants and cafes, not to mention the vibrant nightlife. Whilst being a veritable playground for hip travellers who enjoy a lively social scene, Blue Apple Beach by night is a calm respite from buzzing Cartagena, staying cool, calm and collected amid the city buzz. Its golden beach, extensive amenities and superb beach club are the perfect combination for those wanting a carefree honeymoon.

Discover more at www.blueapplebeach.com

The Drummond at Albury is open now for breakfast, lunch and dinner and everything in between. There are also 11 newly-refurbished rooms that are perfect for a short stay away in the tranquillity of the Surrey Hills.

To find out more, visit www.thedrummondatalbury.co.uk

The Standard

Greece is

Santorini is often referred to as the supermodel of the Greek islands and I can see why. Surrounded by the inviting Aegean Sea, it’s reached by direct flights from the UK or a short 45-minute flight from Athens Airport. It can also be accessed by boat from Piraeus Port for island-hopping honeymooners wanting to escape to the sun. On arrival, Europe’s most glamorous getaway greets visitors with unbeatable views and the famous white-washed landscape dotted with the instantly recognisable blue domes on the many chapels and churches that are perched on the steep Caldera cliffs.

VILLA WITH A VIEW

Hidden down an accessible track off the main road linking the Insta-worthy town of Oia to the capital, Fira, sits Villa Mellow, one of more than 500 luxury vacation rental villas located in a choice of more than 25 dreamy destinations offered by The Greek Villas. Promising privacy, it’s perfect for honeymooners wanting to get away from it all. The authentic architectural design is built in the island’s signature style with sunny bursts of yellow cheerfully decorating the exterior. The fully furnished interior enjoys a pop-art vibe created through playful splashes of colour in the living room, on the mezzanine level (which provides a great snug area) and in the kitchen. It sleeps up to six people in three spacious bedrooms with the master one (which was my weekend hideout) commanding unrivalled sea views and doors leading to the patio. It’s the perfect place if you want to enjoy a family-moon or holiday with friends.

I couldn’t wait to take a dip in the heated infinity swimming pool and outdoor hot tub, both perched on the cliff edge, and laze on the comfortable sun loungers perfectly placed to admire the view stretching across to the town of Imerovigli. There’s even a spectacular wedding arch above the

patio for couples wishing to marry in Greece and enjoy their honeymoon at the villa (civil ceremonies can take place here with up to 70 guests seated around it and music and dancing can be enjoyed into the early hours).

WISH YOU WERE HERE

Eager to explore, I headed straight to the tourist hotspot of Oia to witness one of the world-renowned sunsets I had heard so much about. To grab a great spot at the ruins of the castle of Agios Nikolaos or beside the Glitzy Windmill, be prepared to set off early. Don’t forget the essentials - a glass of Ouzo (a Greek aperitif) or a local beer!

The winding narrow marble streets in Oia are home to high-end restaurants, traditional tavernas and designer boutiques and the best time to visit is in May or October when it isn’t too crowded. Visitors wanting to hike from here to Fira can follow the 6.5-mile path (stopping for a picnic or lunch at the Avocado restaurant for some tasty Mediterranean cuisine) while those looking for a more laid-back vacation (yes, that’s me!) can hire a car or a quad (or even book a one-hour donkey ride) to see this volcanic island.

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

I was very impressed by the private 24-hour, hotel-standard service at the villa meaning that I didn’t need to lift a finger. My host was Michael who prepared a fresh Greek breakfast every morning that I enjoyed outside on the patio (dinner cooked on-site in the outdoor oven was also an option).

Those

Gino and Fred Go Greek is another option but getting there isn’t for the faint-hearted with the main access being down more than 270 steps. It’s well worth it though to dine on the crystal-clear water’s edge surrounded by traditional fishing boats. A highlight for me was the cuttlefish, homemade tzatziki and saganaki.

Party-lovers should head to Fira while those wanting another spectacular sunset from a different angle across Fira and Oia should book a table at the recently opened wine bar and restaurant Madame Sousou located in Pyrgos where they make their own wine (and gin) and serve tasty small tapas plates chosen around the wine varieties. The wine cellar itself is impressive, built into a cave. Also in Pyrgos is the vintage-inspired Agaze bistro and deli offering traditional greek flavours in a cosy atmosphere.

Editor Claire Ridley spent the summer in Santorini and Athens

wanting to enjoy some fine dining in Oia can do so at the Black Rock Restaurant. Katina Fish Tavern at Ammoudi Beach, as featured in the television show Gordon,

From the moment I arrived in Athens, a three-and-a-half hour flight from London, the energy of this bustling city greeted me. A myriad of vibrant streets crammed with landmarks promised to fill my Insta feed, from the iconic Acropolis of Athens (a UNESCO World Heritage Centre) to the Plaka district, the oldest in Athens that lies beneath the Acropolis where the cobbled streets are filled with eclectic shops and rooftop restaurants. Being a shopper, I loved the boutiques in the fashion district and the markets (especially the flea market, where a romantic mix of old meets new). May is a great time to visit when the weather is warm (the average temperature is 25 degrees) but the intense heat of the summer hasn’t yet descended.

PERFECT PAMPER

After a busy day spent sightseeing, I was booked into the SPA Suite, an oasis of calm in the middle of this bustling mecca offering an extensive treatment menu. With a focus on wellness, I felt rejuvenated after a relaxing full-body massage using Elemis products followed by a steam bath. There’s also a 24-hour Gym Suite, where guests can enjoy pilates and rooftop yoga is also offered.

A WARM WELCOME

Nestled in the heart of this capital city opposite Old Parliament House sits the five-star hotel xenodocheio Milos. I was excited to visit this boutique property, a food destination which is the first luxury gastronomy hotel of the world-renowned Greek restaurant Estiatorio Milos. It boasts 43 stylish rooms and suites including the 501 Milos Terrace Suite which was my home-from-home for the night. The highlight of this wonderful space is the private rooftop terrace complete with a jacuzzi and far-flung views, the ideal spot to soak up summer in the city.

DINE IN STYLE

The Estiatorio Milos restaurant situated on the ground floor of this popular hotel is well-known on the Athens dining scene for its fantastic Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant offers private dining events, an all-day al fresco sidewalk cafe bar located just outside on the terrace and there’s

soon to be an oyster bar. It has sister properties in New York, Las Vegas, Miami, Los Cabos, Montreal and London where the extensive seafood menu tantalises tastebuds with delicious dishes made using only the freshest and finest ingredients from the Greek islands. Founder and chef Costas Spiliadis has personally chosen the fishermen and farmers to work with. A highlight for me was the sashimi and ceviche followed by the lightly fried zucchini and eggplant before the grilled fish of the day was served. For dessert, I tucked into a mouth-watering bitter chocolate tartrate served with homemade cream washed down with a glass of delicious Cretan Vorinos wine.

THE LAKES In love with

A myriad of delights lie in wait in The Lake District for UK honeymooners

The four-star Belsfield Hotel, located mere moments from the charming town centre in Bowness-on-Windermere, exudes class, sophistication and historical splendour. From its enviable spot on the banks of Lake Windermere, there can surely be nowhere better to enjoy the rest, relaxation and beauty of the area cocooned in sheer luxury. Whether you’re looking for an active honeymoon break filled with hiking and outdoor adventure; or a peaceful, romantic escape, the Hotel offers the perfect base. County Wedding Magazines’ deputy managing editor, Kelly Andrews, paid a visit to find out more.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

The Lake District is a long old drive from CWM’s Essex HQ, so the eventual sight of The Belsfield’s impressive facade, was welcome indeed. The perfect marriage of the historical and ultra-modern immediately had my attention. We were met in the car park by charming hotel porter Sean, who gave us one of the warmest welcomes I’ve ever received and kindly waited for us to check in before showing us up to our room. He wouldn’t hear of us carrying even one item of luggage, so we knew within the first moments of our stay that we were going to be in good hands here. Sean’s wasn’t the only welcome we received though, as Lake

Windermere itself already had this in hand. The moment we set foot inside the reception area, it became immediately obvious to me why its architect chose to construct it from glass, anything else would have been a travesty. My breath was literally taken away. Through the open double doors directly opposite me was one of the most incredible views I’ve ever witnessed. The vast expanse of the Lake glistening in the late summer sunshine and the rolling hills and peaks partially shrouded in mist. I didn’t want to tear my eyes away, so it was fortunate indeed that we’d been treated to one of The Belsfield’s showstopping suites complete with Lake view.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME Mum and I were like kids in a sweet shop once Sean had wished us a pleasant stay, closed the door of our suite behind him and left us, such were the levels of excitement already reached thanks to our stunning surroundings – both inside and out. By the time reception called to ask if everything was ok, we’d already decided we wanted to move in... permanently! While the best way I can think to describe it is a home away from home, that’s not entirely accurate as I can only dream that my home was this stylish and luxurious! Indeed, each of the designer rooms features elegant furnishings and delightful fabrics. From the oversized sofa and antiqued chest coffee table, to the oh-so comfortable super king size bed and huge TV, we were hooked. I’d only just managed to tear myself away from the window and that view when it was time to head down for dinner.

A TASTE OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

Dining at The Belsfield Restaurant & Brasserie offers a treat for the taste buds. A fine-dining experience sure to delight even the most committed of foodies, the varied and flavour-packed menu includes such seasonal dishes as butternut squash and pine nut pithivier; slow braised shoulder of lamb; and spring pea and goats cheese risotto.

Like everything else here, dinner is an experience. The staff excel at making their guests feel welcome and like VIPs. Shown to a table in the box bay window, surely the best seat in the house, we settled into our armchair-like seats looking out at that incredible view as we ate. As is the case throughout the hotel, the muted, neutral tones of the décor in the restaurant play a huge part in its calming vibe and don’t compete with the

idyllic surroundings, where Mother Nature does all the talking. As the sun set behind the hills and mist rolled in over the Lake we opened our menus and sipped our wine, the stresses of the motorway now a distant memory.

I opted to start my meal with the crispy pork belly with black pudding and cider cream sauce – so good I ordered it again the following night! This was followed by the main course of Cumberland sausage with whole grain mustard mash, pickled red cabbage and red wine jus. Being a cheese fanatic, I finished with a selection of local and British cheeses, which were paired with artisan biscuits, chutney, celery and grapes. But sweet treats on the menu included glazed lemon tart, date pudding and strawberry and mascarpone cheesecake. Every mouthful was a joy and the service was impeccable.

Located at the heart of the hotel is the glamorous Lounge Bar. With a warm and inviting ambience it also boasts a suite of further immaculately decorated lounges, where you can take your drink and relax overlooking Lake Windermere. That’s just what we did as we made the most of the last rays of sunshine dancing on the Lake and enjoying our extremely delicious chocolatinis (vanilla vodka, Baileys and crème de cacao –highly recommended). The smallest of the lounges we found boasted décor that reminded me of a stately home’s study. I could imagine Austen’s Mr Bennett sitting there reading a book while taking refuge from Mrs Bennett’s ‘nerves.’

Breakfast too is served in the restaurant. A welcome combination of continental self service and hot food table service, the first meal of the day is just the sort of hearty fare you’d hope to fill up on before heading out for a day exploring. Again it bears repeating how great the staff are. We were looked after by the lovely Dominika, who put a smile on our faces with her friendly manner.

THE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE

After a restful night’s sleep we headed out of the Hotel via it’s rear terrace, which brings you straight out to Bowness’ waterfront, where we boarded a steamer for a half-lake cruise. Windermere Lake Cruises offers an extensive programme of options when it comes to cruising the lake, whether you want the scenic option, the full tour or island exploration. There are also combined tickets where you can incorporate another attraction. We opted for the cruise and steam train, which allowed us to see and experience much of the local area in the short amount of time we had. The steamer let us off at the Lakeside Pier and we took The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Heritage Railway to its terminus in Haverthwaite. Here, there’s a station tea room and gift shop, which we enjoyed before heading back to make our connection back at the pier.

We returned to Bowness and jumped in the car to Hill Top in Sawrey near Hawkshead, the 17th-century farmhouse once home to Beatrix Potter. It was the house she bought with the royalties from the first of her books, The Tale of Peter Rabbit and is well worth a visit. Not only is the house a time capsule containing many of the author’s belongings, the village itself offers a picture-perfect spot for a romantic stroll.

Keen for more of Miss Potter we wended our way back around the Lake to the opposite side and Bowness. A mere five-minute walk from

The Belsfield you’ll find The World of Beatrix Potter. Primarily a family attraction it’s nevertheless well worth a visit for bigger kids for whom the tales of Peter and friends occupy a special place in the heart. These enchanting stories are brought to life in a magical recreation of the characters and their antics as you get to meet many of the famous furry faces we all know and love from our childhoods.

Welcomed back to the hotel by charming manager Mark, who was surprised to hear about all that we’d packed into one day, I realised just how much I appreciated the location. Another string to The Belsfield’s bow is its location – right in the centre of Windermere’s eastern shore it’s at the heart of the action and with so much to see and do within easy reach. So, it’s definitely possible to get the most out of your honeymoon here whatever you decide to make of it.

With hearts heavy at the thought of leaving the hotel we’d fallen head over heels in love with, we bundled our luggage into the car the following morning and made for home, having resolved to be back at the first possible opportunity.

STEEPED IN HISTORY

Built in the 19th century for the Baroness Von Sternberg, the building’s most well-known former owner was Henry Schneider, director of the steel works at Barrow, the Barrow Flax and Jute Works and the Barrow Shipbuilding Company, who established his country residence at the Belsfield in 1869. His departure from the house early each morning was preceded by his butlers and staff descending the lawns to the lakeside carrying the entree dishes for his English Breakfast.

The house became a hotel in 1892 and between 1910 and 1911 drastic alterations were made, when an entire storey was added between the existing first and second floors. During the Second World War the Hotel was requisitioned as a training centre for WRAF officers.

Pure luxury

After hearing about The Belfry Hotel & Resort, an award-winning hotel in the heart of Sutton Coldfield with three world-class golf courses, 300+ bedrooms, multiple restaurants and a luxurious spa, I was excited to experience it first-hand.

The host of The Ryder Cup four times, more than any other venue in the world, The Belfry Hotel & Resort has gone down in history as the backdrop to some extremely notable golf moments and has hosted its fair share of famous names and faces. Less than 10 miles from Birmingham Airport, International Train Station, Alexander Stadium and Birmingham’s NEC, it’s surrounded by prominent local landmarks, and is in a prime position for any travelling guests who need a place to lay their heads.

A ROYAL WELCOME

Walking through the double doors, I was met with a stunning entrance adorned with rich fabrics and beautiful floral displays. Walking past the generous amount of guest seating, the white portico pillars and vibrant yellow neon sign for the Brabazon Bar, I couldn’t take my eyes off the quirky chandelier that was taking centre stage.

The very helpful Ryan, who was working at the check-in desk, detailed exactly where we needed to go to find our room. As we walked through

the wood-claded corridors lined with busy event and conference suites, we found the lift up to the second floor in search of the Presidential Suite. The largest and most impressive of all their overnight accommodation, the suite offers a family-sized living room complete with comfortable sofas, a dining table, a mini-kitchen space with all the comforts of home, and two separate balconies with views of the world-class golf courses.

The bedroom had luxurious plush armchairs, a desk, a luscious kingsized bed, and quite possibly the biggest en-suite bathroom I’ve ever seen! Equipped with his and hers wash basins, a free-standing bath, a spacious shower cubicle, and two separate toilets, it’s safe to say you won’t be waiting for your turn to use the bathroom.

REST AND RELAXATION

Picking up our swim bags, we headed to the spa to try out the Fire & Ice Experience. Here, Michelle gave us a guided tour through the varied selection of 12 bio thermal rooms, all designed to enhance your mood and invigorate the senses. Knowing that this spa had been named a finalist in the Best Day Spa category for the Good Spa Guide Awards 2022, I was excited for the experience to begin. Starting with a foot spa and moving through the hot and cold steam, sauna, and shower rooms,

Beth Morton and her hubby visited The Belfry Hotel & Resort in Sutton Coldfield

we experienced both the shock and delight that came with such extreme temperatures – it was divine! Our personal favourites were the Igloo Room, which offers chilled walls and an ever-filling ice bucket for a body massage, and the Aroma and Crystal Steam Rooms, both heavenlyscented spaces designed to cleanse and purify.

From here, we popped down to the iconic Brabazon Bar, which was crowned winner of the Hotel Bar of the Year category at the Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards 2022, for a cheeky cocktail (or three) and found ourselves transported back in time. The bar, rich in bottle green leathers with portico pillars, showcases a breathtaking raised glass ceiling that is a sight to behold.

READY, SET, PLAY!

After hearing numerous tales of woe from my husband about how he’s always the worst player on his group golfing trips, we both jumped at the chance of hitting a few golf balls at the driving range.

Despite the brilliant Toptracer technology allowing us to see our flight paths and providing data to work on our swing technique, it’s safe to say that we won’t be challenging Tiger Woods to a match any time soon!

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

The Belfry Hotel & Resort offers an impressive selection of restaurants, each a little different from the other, and we were lucky enough to dine in the fabulous Ryder Grill. The buffet here is one of the most deliciouslooking and gourmet-sounding selections I’d ever seen, but since my hubby is lactose-intolerant and vegetarian, we decided to choose from the à la carte menu.

Having made our selections, we were treated to a stunning salmon, beetroot, and wasabi starter adorned with edible flowers and a vibrant carpaccio of tomatoes. The main course, generous in size, was a seared sea trout with garlic potatoes and a very artistic fennel bhaji. The highlight of the meal was the extra dessert that our wonderful waitress Annie brought out when she realised we were struggling to decide. We scoffed a chocolate torte, a cheese selection and a sticky toffee banana bread – yum!

Our night ended on a high after we made our way back to our Presidential Suite and fell into blissful slumbers in a bed that felt lighter than air.

We had a wonderful time at The Belfry Hotel & Resort and are looking forward to coming back soon!

BOOK IT

The Belfry Hotel & Resort, www.thebelfry.com

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