Your East Anglian Wedding - December/January 2022/23 (Issue 58)

On the cover

This issue’s cover has come straight from the elopement-style shoot over on page 53. We love the monochromatic aesthetic and retro-vibe collaborators The Tiny Planner and Lucie Watson Photography created.

EDITORIAL

01376 535 611

Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor

Kelly Andrews | Deputy Managing

Editor and Beauty Editor

Melissa

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

Baby it’s cold outside – sort of!

Although this is our lovely December/ January issue, and I should be talking about all things cold and frosty, it’s 20 degrees outside and we have the office windows open! An Indian Summer it certainly is. There are talks (although do the weather experts ever get it right?) that snow is on the way. Yipee!

I for one, love winter. Not the rainy winter we tend to get here in good ol’blighty, but the oh-so dreamy bright skies and frosty footpaths, orange-coloured leaves and log fires, Christmas carols and mulled wine, layers of cosy knitwear and wellies by the front door – honestly, what is there not to love? Not only is the festive period the most popular time of year to propose – 75% of engagements happen over the season – but it’s also a great time of year to tie the knot too. There is inspiration aplenty for theme ideas and colour schemes, what’s more is that venues are also decked to the halls in Christmas paraphernalia so that’s one job off your to-do list and a little saving for the wedding budget to boot!

Over on page 19 we have a pick of top 10 venues for winter nuptials, and a lush festive-themed styled shoot over on page 49. For fashion, the gents are sorted for seasonal attire over on page 90, and there’s a delicious catering feature talking about festive menus on 57. For the ultimate style inspiration, we showcase how to create your very own winter wonderland on 62 – you’re welcome!

Psst! Head over to www.youreastanglian.wedding/ get-involved-real-wedding to submit your wedding for consideration for one of our Real Wedding features – we’d love to feature you!

Sit back, relax and enjoy this issue

Danielle Harvey, Managing Editor

Venues for cosy ‘I dos’ at this time of year.

Isabel and Jack had a day full of romance and splendour at

Priory after waiting two years to tie the knot.

This styled elopement shoot is oozing romance.

I love this break out area at Kim and Phil’s wedding.

Butley

Steph’s son had big shoes to fill walking her down the aisle on her wedding day!

WATCH THIS SPACE!

Renowned Norfolk wedding cake company, Buns of Fun is looking to increase its offering to nearlyweds-to-be. Owner and baker extraordinaire Emma Thorburn says, “Cake stands have been a part of my packages for some time, but I have spent nearly three years looking for cake stands to sell as part of my ‘All-In’ service. I have finally curated a selection of unusual, tall and beautiful cake stands and gorgeous server sets for all lovers of cake, to offer couples more choice and the range will continue to grow,” shares Emma. “They can be purchased whether I’m making the cake or not and personalised using the couple’s initials and the date of their wedding – great for keeping or gifting! It’s part of our ‘All-In’ service that makes cake magic happen!”

For more information, check out www.bunsoffun.co.uk

PSST! DID YOU KNOW…

The Good Hotel Guide (www.goodhotelguide.com) has revealed its annual list of 12 César winners with Morston Hall in Holt taking home the award for the Best Hotel in East Anglia. In addition, these properties in the region feature heavily in the Editor’s Choice lists: The Rose & Crown at Snettisham in the Pubs with Rooms category, and Congham Hall, near King’s Lynn, making the top properties with impressive gardens.

NEWS Nearlywed

The latest news from around the region

PAMPERED POOCHES

The Ickworth in Suffolk, part of the Luxury Family Hotels group, has announced the launch of its new Waggy Tails Tea Time and A La Bark menus!

Served in the hotel’s lounge, or al fresco in the warmer months, the Waggy Tails Tea Time is a real feast. Healthy ‘paw-dit-ites’ of crunchy carrots, apple and cheese are on offer, followed by tasty Lick-a-licious Liver Cake, Pawnut Butter Biscuits and Canine Carrot Cake with Pawsome Frosting – all washed down with a quenching and refreshing bowl of H20, and let’s not forget the puppacino, too!

For the pooches whose parents keep an eagle eye on their waistline, opt for the A La Bark menu. It’s not quite so indulgent, choose from: Barkingly Good Beef Supper or a Waggingly Delicious Chicken Dinner –

slow cooked in doggy gravy with crushed potatoes and vegetables. For something sweet, finish with a homemade peanut butter bone-shaped biscuit or Frosty Paws ice cream. Also available is the ultimate doggy drink: the Bottom Sniffer – non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, and packed with vitamins and minerals to keep your pooch’s nose nice and shiny! The A La Bark menu has been carefully curated with a doggy’s taste buds in mind, but also their health. All dishes are homemade using ingredients from the hotel’s kitchen.

Just like their humans, dogs like to dress up smart for dinner, which is why Luxury Family Hotels have prizes up for grabs for the best dressed doggies! Turn up for tea looking dapper and share a social post using #WaggyTailsAtLFH and be in with a chance of winning a paw-fect prize!

Check out www.ickworthhotel.co.uk

Images courtesy of https://denisebradyphotography.com

VENUE SPOTLIGHT

Located in the heart of Woodbridge in beautiful Suffolk and surrounded by traditional inns, restaurants and historic quirky buildings, the magnificent 16th-century Shire Hall is steeped in history and provides the perfect setting for weddings. Built in 1575 by Thomas Seckford the building has been a focal point of Woodbridge for more than 400 years and stands proud in the centre of Market Hill. Displaying its iconic 17th-century Flemish gabling and stone capping, with elegant long iron staircase either side of the large impressive arched doors, the Shire Hall is picture-perfect.

Make your grand entrance via the stone steps into the airy

Council Chamber with its splendid architectural columns, which comfortably holds up to 64 guests. The Shire Hall has step-free access for those with limited mobility and provides public Wi-Fi and a Bluetooth sound system for those who require it. A wedding car can be parked off road at the back of the Shire Hall for the bridal couple to use, which also offers another space for a vehicle for those relatives or friends with limited mobility.

The Shire Hall is open to the public between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday and welcomes you to visit by booking an appointment.

Check out www.woodbridge-suffolk.gov.uk/weddings

MORE CAKE PLEASE

AISLE STYLE

Family-owned national diamond, jewellery and watch retailer Beaverbrooks, has opened its first store in Cambridge’s Grand Arcade Shopping Centre. The national retailer will also be opening the first dedicated TAG Heuer boutique in the city and will be the only stockist of the Luxury Swiss watch brand in the area.

The new Beaverbrooks store has been specially designed to create a more immersive shopping experience for customers, introducing an exclusive ‘diamond room’ – ideal for those in the midst of wedding planning. As well as stocking first-of-its-kind diamond collection Beyond Brilliance, the store also brings a wide range of luxury bridal pieces and the latest exclusive diamond range from the retailer, Essence. The team, who are experts in jewellery, diamonds and watches, will be able to assist customers with making important purchases.

Check out www.beaverbrooks.co.uk

Norfolk’s Sponge has a wide variety of wedding cake options available to order online and personalise to your preference including specifying dietary requirements.

A new product coming out in the next month or so – so keep your eyes peeled – is The Cake Card. A personalised card with a square of cake in the middle, you can send to your bridal party members to ask them ‘Will you be my…?’ or to wedding guests post-vows to say thank you for attending the big day – the choices are endless!

The vegan and gluten-free options are expanding too to ensure couples and their guests are completely catered for. The packages available vary in price and design, dietary requirements and flavour preferences, for example: the Baby Cake Wedding Cake Tower can be tailored picking various flavours, fillings and dietary requirements including vegan and gluten free.

Find out more www.sponge.co.uk/cakes/weddings

BELL OF THE BALL

Norfolk’s Peg & Mallet offer a bespoke bell tent hire service with a range of bell tent sizes and accommodation packages for the wedding couple and their guests, where all needs and budgets are carefully considered. These range from the basic, for the more experienced campers, to the fully-furnished glamping experience, complete with a proper double bed and mattress – fabulous for those that want to sleep under the stars in luxury.

The Snug is a superb accompaniment to any event, providing a peaceful sanctuary; a communal place that is ideal to escape and chill-out in.

For a truly memorable wedding night the beautiful Bridal Bell is the

perfect retreat at the end of your special day.

The company prides itself on providing a service that brings both comfort and ease to your dream outdoor wedding, freeing you to make everlasting memories.

Your East Anglian Wedding has teamed up with Peg & Mallet to offer readers £50 off the hire of the Bridal Bell or The Snug when booking its accommodation packages – what’s more, even if you had already booked the company for your big day, you too could benefit from this offer. Just quote: P&M50.

Visit www.pegandmallet.com or email: pegandmallet@gmail.com

Freebies & OFFERS

Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

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!

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to kickstarting our Autumn wedding show season. From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues to our larger Signature Wedding Shows, we can’t wait to welcome back our couples and help plan their wedding days.

Here’s what to expect when attending one of our events...

Whether you’re joyous that restrictions have passed, or are still a little hesitant, couples can rest assured our venues are continuing to maintain some of the government guidelines and measures to ensure everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy the day:

• Attendees will need to pre-register to attend events

• There will be allocated time slots for visitors

• All venues will also have enhanced cleaning procedures, with hand washing and sanitising facilities still available

• Spaces between exhibition booths will be maintained to ease congestion

• Optional face masks

• Anyone with symptoms must refrain from visiting

Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof.

On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés, and attending our exhibitions is free!

For more information on any of our exhibitions visit County Wedding Events’ website.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our events.

Sarah Ellis, Sales and Events Director County Wedding Events.

Psst! Our pre-registered Signature Wedding Show visitors will have the chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of Spabreaks.com

WEDDING SHOWS SPRING 2023

ALL EVENTS 11AM - 3PM unless otherwise stated

At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area.

All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day.

BERKS, BUCKS & OXON

SUN 12 MAR | RACKLEYS CHILTERN HILLS Marlow Road, Cadmore End, Bucks, HP14 3PP

SUN 2 APR | THE COMPLEAT ANGLER Bisham Road, Marlow Bridge, Marlow, SL7 1RG

WEDDING SHOWS SPRING 2023

EAST ANGLIA

ESSEX

SUN 26 MAR

HAYCOCK MANOR Wansford, Peterborough, PE8 6JA

KENT

TO BE CONFIRMED PENSHURST PLACE

Penshurst, TN11 8DG

LONDON

SUN 19 FEB

MORDEN HALL

Morden Hall Road, SM4 5JD

SUN 14 MAY

MORDEN HALL

Morden Hall Road, SM4 5JD

SUSSEX

12PM-4PM

SUN 16 APR

SELDEN BARNS

Selden Lane, Patching, Worthing, BN13 3UL

12PM-4PM

SUN 8 JAN

HEDINGHAM CASTLE Castle Hedingham, CO9 3DJ

SUN 15 JAN

BRAXTED PARK

Great Braxted, Witham, CM8 3EN

SUN 12 MAR

LAYER MARNEY TOWER Layer Marney, Colchester, CO5 9US

SAT 1 APR HOUCHINS WEDDING VENUE

Houchin’s Lane, Coggeshall, Colchester, CO6 1RT

SUN 14 MAY

BRAXTED PARK

Great Braxted, Witham, CM8 3EN

SURREY

SUN 5 FEB

HAMPTON COURT PALACE GOLF CLUB

Home Park, Kingston Upon Thames, KT1 4AD

WORK WITH US

As part of KD Events and Publishing Ltd, County Wedding Events (CWE) is ideally placed to offer you a wealth of experience organising events in the wedding industry. If you would like more information about either holding a wedding show at your venue or exhibiting at any of our shows, please contact us at info@countyweddingevents.com, call 01376 514000 or visit countyweddingevents.com.

Signature WEDDING SHOWS

ASCOT RACECOURSE

High Street, Berkshire, SL5 7JX

SUNDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2023 | 11AM - 3.30PM

London,

Brooklands

TH E VE NU E FOR A LL SEAS O NS

@kimberleyhallnorfolk

'Having looked at many venues across Norfolk, we decided on Kimberley Hall as it presented such a unique and romantic setting with its fantastic lakeside location, beautiful grounds and variety of interior spaces.'

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

These venues would be perfect for nuptials over the festive season

KIMBERLEY HALL, WYMONDHAM, NORFOLK 01603 759 447 | www.kimberleyhall.co.uk

A romantic Queen Anne house built in 1712 affording breathtaking views of a vast lake and private park designed by Capability Brown. The house is distinguished by a classical redbrick façade and projecting central pediment, curved colonnades, wings, turrets, and architectural features that provide it with its unique character and a symphony of colour when illuminated at night.

Ceremonies inside the house take place in the Music Room which seats more than130 with its grand piano, marble fireplace and huge arched window looking on to the garden. Guests are seated beneath historic plasterwork and a magnificent chandelier. This room connects to the garden via the spiral staircase with its coffered dome, or to the West Wing entertainment area via the octagonal China Room with intricate plasterwork. These areas can accommodate extra guests seated or standing. There is unlimited capacity for any sized gathering with or without a marquee.

Post-vows, guests are initially received in the Hall and the Music Room where they can be welcomed with a blazing fire and huge Christmas tree for weddings during the winter. Then they can be ushered through

the curved colonnade into the vernacular-chic West Wing entertainment area with its state-of-the-art illuminated bar to dine and dance in the double-height Talman Room. This has the capacity for 150 or more guests (with extra space upstairs for extra dinner and after dinner guests in the sumptuous lounge with its comfy sofas). This area has a balcony from which to view the party beneath, enjoy the sophisticated lighting and laser system and giant rotating mirror ball in action or converse in comfort whilst the music and dancing are in full swing.

New to 2023 is a unique underground nightclub with vaulted rooms in the cellars with a late licence to go beyond midnight (currently being refurbished).

When choosing this big-day venue, couples benefit from a wine and food tasting; tailormade day with flexibility and choice of caterers; inhouse advice and a professional wedding planner. What’s more, there’s ample accommodation for 40 guests in the main house or cottages on the estate, including four-poster beds and a Drummonds double shower in the bridal suite which has a raised bath to enjoy spectacular views of the romantic lake and beautiful landscape.

WOOLVERSTONE HALL, IPSWICH, SUFFOLK 07453 571 541 | www.woolverstonehall.co.uk

With fields full of sheep on the approach and an abundance of trees the scene is set for Woolverstone Hall, a stunning Grade I listed curved Georgian mansion with all rooms overlooking the River Orwell.

For ceremonies, The Leggett Room has classic panelling, an ornate ceiling rose and beautiful sash windows offering picturesque views. Steeped in history, it’s the most delightful of all the property’s Drawing Rooms and can host ceremonies of up to 75 guests. The breathtaking Orangery, bathed in an abundance of light and boasting panoramic

views, has a classic lantern roof and walls of windows. The curved room is a brilliantly flexible space for your ceremony of up to 120 guests. St Michael’s Church is nestled amongst the trees on the Woolverstone Hall estate. With room for up to 200 guests, it’s a beautiful option for a church wedding. One of Suffolk’s few venues that can accommodate ceremonies for more than 200 guests, the Sports Hall can be transformed into an amazing ceremony location hosting up to 400 loved ones.

Post-vows, all rooms are available for the wedding breakfast and reception; and when tying the knot here, a dedicated wedding planner is on hand to help every step of the way.

WOOD FARM BARN, BECCLES, SUFFOLK 01502 675 029 | www.woodfarmbarn.com

Wood Farm Barn is situated in its own beautiful grounds, surrounded by a stunning rural landscape in an Area of Outstanding Beauty.

The main barn and annex barn are surrounded by thatched outbuildings, a walled garden, a natural pond, a copse and a beautiful tree-lined avenue offering lots of opportunities for memorable photographs. At night the area can be lit with strategically placed lights giving enough illumination but without destroying the magical atmosphere

of this rural venue.

This attractive early 19th-century barn is spacious and bright with fullwidth stops leading up to the large picture window, allowing views of the stunning rural landscape in which the barn is situated. Many of the original features have been kept and the open beamed ceiling exposes the beautiful thatch.

The couple have the choice of the ceremony being conducted in either of the two licensed buildings, main barn or annex barn, and after the ‘I dos’, as this venue is a DIY venue, it’s up to the couple to decide where they would like the reception to be.

Wood Farm Barn is a one-of-a-kind, relaxed and informal venue, somewhere memorable and elegant for your wedding ceremony or celebration. Located in Suffolk in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the barn was built in around 1840.

Surrounded by thatched outbuildings, the refurbished Victorian barn is enclosed by a walled garden. Within the grounds there is a natural pond teeming with wildlife, a copse and a beautiful tree-lined avenue, perfect for photographs. The exclusive 3 day hire gives you a blank canvas to create the day of your dreams and the flexibility to hire your own suppliers. Wood Farm Barn makes a wonderful venue for any occasion.

WEDDINGS

at

OUR WEDDING PACKAGES:

Lily

from £180 per guest Magnolia from £225 per guest

Orchid

from £295 per guest

Please contact weddings@haycock.co.uk or 01780 782223

Haycock Manor Hotel, Wansford - in - England, Peterborough PE8 6JA T: 01780 782223 | E: hello@haycock.co.uk | www.haycock.co.uk

Located in the grounds of a picturesque country estate, Haughley Park Barn is approached via a long, sweeping driveway and provides instant, relaxed charm in an impressive, private setting. More than 400 years old, the barn has been sympathetically restored to retain a mix of brickwork and render, while wooden windows and wrought iron highlights finish the traditional Suffolk scene.

Grade II listed, it has been lovingly renovated to provide a flexible, well-equipped space while retaining its traditional character through a wealth of original oak beams and exposed brickwork.

a stage for discos or live music, a built-in bar area, access to outside seating areas and full sound system with microphones. You can choose from a variety of table options seating up to 120 for a formal wedding breakfast, while the evening reception can increase to 240 guests.

A large Victorian farmhouse sits just behind the venue and is available for use alongside Haughley Park Barn. Hired on a self-catering basis for a two-night minimum stay, the property has five large bedrooms and can sleep around 10 people, with plenty of room outside and in for guests to unwind and relax. It’s the perfect place for family, friends, or the bridal party to stay and get ready before the wedding.

Boasting a romantic backdrop of elegant voile drapes, oak beams, exposed roof timbers, delicate fairylights and hand-crafted ceremony tables, the Ceremony Room can seat up to 100 guests and is a beautiful place to say ‘I do’.

The wedding reception will take place in the Main Barn, which features

Haughley Park Barn is offered on a long-hire basis with weddings taking place on a Saturday or Wednesday. The exclusive three-day hire period – and freedom to choose suppliers – allows couples plenty of time to set up and style the venue, celebrate with friends and truly savour this special occasion. ANTEROS

Anteros is a 16th-century Grade II listed street fronted building situated in central Norwich right by the river. Not only does the building lend character and intimacy to your wedding, but it’s ideal for easy access to local hotels and restaurants and allows for beautiful wedding photos taken in the nearby Cathedral, Quay and Tombland area.

Historical, quirky, intimate and warm, once through to the inner courtyard you meet timber frames, mullioned windows and carved wooden doors – its original features making it a unique wedding venue.

For vows, head to the Music Room with 60 guests. Full of character with original 16th-century windows and fireplace, a painted Tudor ceiling and a stunning wooden floor, it’s perfect for a relaxed intimate feel. There’s also a Steinway Grand Piano which couples can use. Or, have your ceremony in the Main Gallery which features the original Tudor wooden carved ceiling, historic stone floor and beautiful mullioned glass window. Underfloor heating keeps you toasty in this historic room, and the gallery’s hanging system allows for easy decoration and hanging of artwork and pictures to add that personal touch to your ceremony and wedding breakfast with up to 60 guests.

PARK BARN, STOWMARKET, SUFFOLK

www.pjaphotography.com www.pjaphotography.com

SECKFORD HALL, WOODBRIDGE, SUFFOLK 01394 385 678 | www.seckford.co.uk

Steeped in histor y dating back to the 1530s, Seckford Hall is nestled amongst 34 acres of private grounds within the Suffolk countryside. Boasting stunning gardens, mature woodlands and an idyllic lake, the beautiful red brick Tudor Hall offers luxurious accommodation and the perfect setting for weddings. The woodlands glow with russet and gold leaves in the autumn so you’ll be sure to have a picture-perfect wedding day whatever the season.

Effortlessly capturing the majestic elegance of the Tudor age, from its cosy lounge to Great Hall, couples and their guests will be enchanted by the charm of this beautiful country house.

Nuptials take place in the Great Hall, licensed for up to 160 guests,

combining the warmth and intimacy of Tudor oak panelling with a huge open fireplace, magnificent high ceilings and large windows that overlook the lake and gardens, it’s the perfect setting for an impressive yet elegant wedding. For smaller dos, the cosy Lounge is perfect for the more intimate ceremonies especially within the colder months, full of character and charm and licensed for up to 50 guests.

Post-vows, the Great Hall can seat 100 loved ones (160 theatre style, or the Pavilion can seat 160 (250 standing). Adjacent to the Great Hall, is a stunning all year round marquee; with breathtaking views it’s an idyllic space for the wedding breakfast and reception.

RAVENWOOD HALL, BURY ST EDMONDS, SUFFOLK 01359 270 345 | www.ravenwoodhall.co.uk

Ravenwood Hall has seven acres of luscious countryside to be enjoyed by guests and couples alike. Its extensive grounds with well-kept lawns, woodland and other clearings, provide those picture-perfect moments. A countr y house hotel, its Tudor façade is an impressive sight, while its interiors showcase its historic origins complementing the exquisite

frontage. Weddings primarily take place in the main hall or in the Edwardian Pavilion; the pavilion is a popular choice for couples as its selfcontained with private gardens, restrooms, bar and marquee attached. Couples also have the option of the Summer House for nuptials, The Tudor Rose Room, and the Marquee, the latter can host more than 200 guests if looking for a large wedding venue.

HAYCOCK MANOR, PETERBOROUGH, CAMBRIDGESHIRE

01780 782 223 |www.haycock.co.uk

Set in the idyllic surroundings of Wansford, within the glorious Cambridgeshire countryside, the Haycock Manor Hotel is the perfect location for relaxation and exploration. The city of Peterborough and the town of Stamford, both within eight miles of the hotel, are brimming with activities for friends, family and couples to enjoy.

One of the finest hotels in Cambridgeshire, positioned on the River Nene, this 16th-century coaching inn offers breathtaking scenery and the finest of facilities.

For vows, the Manor Suite is abundant in light with its own courtyard and comfortably seats up to 80 guests; while the iconic Haycock

Ballroom, with its soaring oak beams, ornate fireplace, private entrance, bar and can accommodate up to 250 seated guests and is perfect for the wedding breakfast and evening reception.

A perfect venue for weddings, it offers superb hotel accommodation, 45 refurbished luxury bedrooms including four bridal suites, stylish meeting and event spaces and picture-perfect backdrops. Boasting award-winning restaurant, Prévost and a new brasserie, the Haycock Kitchen, couples can rest assured that when tying the knot here the bigday menu will satisfy even the most discerning foodies.

As well as complimentary wedding night accommodation for the happy couple, the venue also offers a variety of packages to suit all budgets and requirements – there’s also an intimate elopement package if you want a special day just for two.

Butley Priory, the former gatehouse to an Augustinian Priory, is situated in wonderful grounds surrounded by fields and woodland, with a southfacing garden for wedding guests to enjoy. Built in the 13th century, it has an impressive exterior and an equally enchanting interior. Set within the former gatehouse, the Great Hall has a high, stone vaulted ceiling and an open fireplace. Doors lead off into the drawing room, boasting the Pilgrims bar renowned for its gin selection.

The Great Hall can accommodate 100 guests for the ceremony, and 80 guests for dinner with coffee in the drawing room or south garden, weather dependant. For larger weddings, couples can place a tipi or marquee on the front lawn to accommodate up to 200 guests for the wedding breakfast and evening entertainment.

The recently refurbished bedrooms offer luxury accommodation for 11 guests. Upstairs, in the hallway and wedding suite, the ornate stonework windows offer a striking backdrop for wedding images.

Alexander Parnell Photography

Set on the edge of the stunning Ormesby Broad, The Boathouse offers a unique setting for your Wedding Ceremony or Celebration. The beautiful Wedding arbour overlooking the water provides one of the most romantic venues you and your guests will ever experience.

Going local...

Where to tie the knot in South Cambridgeshire

Trinity Hall dates back to 1350 and is one of the oldest and most beautiful of the Cambridge colleges. Its breathtaking riverside grounds are the perfect backdrop, set around a series of historic courtyards it boasts beautiful gardens, manicured lawns and fantastic river views.

The college includes a wealth of historic buildings and interesting architectural features ranging from the Medieval period through to the present day. Ceremonies and receptions are held within a variety of stunning historic rooms ranging from the intimate to the grand, suitable for wedding parties large or small.

For vows, the Graham Storey Room is located on the ground floor within an attractive red-brick Tudor building. This spacious room includes many historic features and enjoys views of Latham Lawn. It’s suitable for ceremonies for up to 90. The Leslie Stephen Room is located on the first floor overlooking the college’s front court. This attractive and historic room is ideal for smaller ceremonies of up to 30 guests (available Sunday to Thursday during college vacations).

Post-ceremony, Trinity Hall’s beautiful riverside grounds offer an idyllic setting for your drinks and canapés reception. For a quintessentially Cambridge wedding, you could arrive by chauffeured punt to be greeted

by your guests on the River Terrace or enjoy a mini punting party with your guests along the River Cam. For a classic summer wedding, you can include traditional garden games on Latham Lawn with Champagne, Prosecco or Pimms.

Following the drinks reception, enjoy your wedding breakfast in the Medieval Dining Hall (capacity 150), boasting a high-vaulted ceiling, impressive portrait collection and ornate historic features.

As your celebrations continue into the night, the Crescent Room is the perfect space for live music and DJs/discos. The adjoining Aula Bar includes comfortable leather armchairs and sofas, and a well-stocked bar. These rooms are accessed via the historic North Court which offers a wonderful outdoor setting for acoustic music. Total capacity 150.

During college vacations Trinity Hall is available for larger weddings of 60 to 150 guests on Fridays and Saturdays (80 guest minimum on Saturdays) and more intimate weddings of up to 50 guests from Sunday to Thursday.

When tying the knot here, Trinity Hall’s wedding package includes wedding coordinators a complimentary menu tasting, and private changing rooms for the nearlyweds to get fully prepared on their wedding day (subject to availability). Accommodation for wedding guests may also be offered subject to availability.

Sophie Clarke

SWAVESEY WINDMILL

01954 232 247 | www.swaveseywindmill.co.uk

Swavesey Windmill is situated in a glorious garden setting. Mostly laid too lawn, with trees and shrubs surrounding a large pond boasting a picturesque fountain, there’s a white bridge that takes you to the island for great photos. The pond-side jetty is suitable for ceremonies and, at night, the whole area comes alive with festoon lights in the trees.

Entering through the double doors of this light grey, wooden-clad building, couples find themselves in the reception area complete with amenities. Leading into the event space, it boasts ivory drapes on a pitched ceiling, sparkling chandeliers and a fully stocked bar. There are also double doors at the far end opening into the marquee.

Ceremonies can take place inside, or weather permitting outside on the pond-side jetty, with up to 94 loved ones. Wedding breakfasts (capacity 94) and receptions (150) take place within the marquee, or inside the venue dependent of guest numbers. The ivory-lined marquee is attached to the main building and has carpet flooring, chandeliers and clear end panels which overlook the pond. The garden has lots of features, including a large swing, weeping willow tree, bridge, island and lots of open space for garden games!

When saying ‘I do’ to this venue, couples can have the day before to add any final decoration, and the morning after to collect anything left overnight. Couple will also have the help from the venue’s coordinators from start to finish.

YOUR A-Z OF SOUTH CAMBRIDGE WEDDING VENUES

Best Western Cambridge Quy Mill Hotel 01223 293 383 www.cambridgequymill.co.uk

Brampton Park Golf Club 01480 434 700 https://bramptonparkgc.co.uk

Cambridge Country Club 01223 247 365 www.cambridgecountryclub.com

Cambridge Guildhall 03450 451 363 www.cambridgelive.org.uk

Childerley Cambridge 01954 211 433 www.childerley.org

Chilford Hall 01223 895 600 www.chilfordhall.co.uk

Corpus Christi College 01223 338 014 | www.corpus.cam.ac.uk/ conferences/weddings-corpus-cambridge

Downing College 01223 334 860 | www.downingconferences-cambridge.co.uk/weddings

Emmanuel College

Graduate Cambridge | 01223 259 988 www.graduatehotels.com/cambridge

Hilton Cambridge City Centre 01223 464 491 | www.hilton.com

Jesus College 01223 760 524 | www.jesus.cam.ac.uk/ conferences/weddings

King’s College 01223 331 100 | www.kings.cam.ac.uk/ conference-and-dining/wedding-receptions

Longstowe Hall https://longstowehall.co.uk

Madingley Hall 01223 746 222 | www.madingleyhall.co.uk

Magdalene College 01223 332 138 | www.magd.cam.ac.uk/ conference/weddings

Murray Edwards College 01223 762 267 www.murrayedwardsevents.co.uk

Newnham College 01223 335 803 | https://newn.cam.ac.uk/ conferences/weddings

Rectory Farm Country House 07742 272 115 www.rectoryfarm.net

Rosewood Pavilion 01638 476 434 www.rosewoodpavilion.co.uk

Sheene Mill https://sheenemill.com

The Eltisley 01480 880 308| http://theeltisley.co.uk

The Gonville Hotel 01223 366 611 www.gonvillehotel.co.uk

The Lodge Duxford 01223 755 677 https://thelodgeduxford.com

The Missing Sock 01223 812 660 | www.themissingsock.co.uk

The Secret Garden 01223 260 040 www.burwashsecretgarden.com

University Arms Cambridge 01223 606 066 https://universityarms.com

Third time lucky

Isabel and Jack’s English garden-themed wedding was two years in the making

Images courtesy of Irene Yap Photography

Isabel and Jack met at university in 2009 through mutual friends but didn’t get together until 2012. “We clicked immediately,” recalls Isabel, “We have a very similar sense of humour, love of travel and have now been together more than a decade and have a young son together.”

Jack proposed when the couple were on holiday with Isabel’s family in France in 2019. “It was a lovely surprise!” shares Isabel. “He’d gone to great lengths planning it. He designed the ring, an emerald from South Africa – my favourite stone and colour, and our favourite country to travel to – sought permission from my father and smuggled the ring through airport security in my dad’s handluggage! It was lovely to celebrate with my family all around us!”

The big date was set, 11th June 2022, with a ceremony at St John the Baptist Church, Butley, followed by a reception at Butley Priory.

SETTING THE SCENE

The pair had always wanted a summer wedding in a big marquee, when choosing the venue it was as much about finding a venue with the right gardens and grounds as the main building itself. “Butley Priory was perfect – an amazing venue steeped in character and history, but not too grand in a way that wouldn’t feel ‘us’,” shares Isabel. “Knowing how quickly the day itself would pass, we also wanted to find a venue that would allow us to really maximise the weekend with activities on the Friday and Sunday too. The other great thing about Butley is the accommodation, both in the priory itself and in its beautiful farmhouse behind the priory. This allowed us to sleep 30 of our closest friends and family and have a wedding weekend; a big pre-wedding barbecue on the Friday night and a hungover fry up on the Sunday to recount stories of the night before and postpone the post-wedding blues just a little longer.”

For the finer details of the day, the couple opted for finishing touches that reflected their country garden aesthetic. The favours were little glass bottles of elderflower gin liqueur that acted as place names and favours, with elderflower cordial for children and non-drinkers. “They went down brilliantly with guests and looked great on the long trestle tables,” adds Isabel.

“The wedding breakfast took place in a sailcloth marquee, so the flowers were a very important focal point of the decorations,” shares Isabel. “There were four trestle tables for a banquet-style meal so that everyone was sat close together. The centrepieces were a simple rustic style overflowing with colour and visually busy (whilst allowing room for sharing platters and lots of crockery for the meal). We had a selection of flowers, bouquets in bowls with different heights and widths and smaller bud vases with a smaller number of stems. The flowers were interspersed with candles that I painted patterns onto to add another pop of colour and jazz up inexpensive tapered candles.” Isabel continues, “Our wonderful florist Juliet did an incredible job with the flowers at the wedding. Right from our very first meeting back in 2019 she understood exactly what we were after, and the flowers were one of the real highlights for me. We had stunning bouquets and buttonholes, an incredible wildflower display in the church, the beautiful arrangements in the marquee and wildflower displays around the entrance were exactly what we imagined.”

The cake, was a delicious lemon polenta cake that was decorated beautifully with flowers from Isabel’s own garden and leftover blooms from the bouquets. “I was on maternity leave when we got married so had a little more time to add some personal, handmade touches than I would have otherwise. I provided the confetti which was a mixture of petals I’d saved and dried from bouquets sent when my son was born last autumn, and rose petals collected on my daily dog walks at home in the month before, dried and turned into a beautiful array of confetti in pinks, oranges and yellows.”

In addition to the standard drinks reception bubbles, the couple wanted some tipple that they really enjoyed, Isabel loves Aperol and it’s beer for Jack. “We were lucky enough to win a competition with Aperol whereby they supplied Aperol Spritzs on the day,” shares Isabel. “With Adnams Brewery just up the road it would have been rude not to have several of their kegs there throughout the day! We worked closely with Peter Harrison to come up with a delicious menu that we felt was perfect for the day. The canapés were an assortment of crowd-pleasers and light summery flavours, similarly with the main meal –each course used as much local produce as possible – meat and organic vegetables, and the dessert included something from Pump Street Bakery from just down the road in Orford, a favourite of ours. In the evening we had cheese for the guests, picking a selection of our favourites.”

LOOKING THE PART

Isabel wore a beautiful 3D floral appliqué dress by Donatella Piccarreta called 705315. “I wanted a dress that would be both modern and contemporary with a nod to a traditional long white dress as I knew this would make me feel special on the day – I’ve never worn a floor-length dress!” shares Isabel. The dress was decorated in hundreds of handmade flowers and had a very subtle glittery undercoat that added an extra element of fun when it caught the light. “The dress had a beautiful low back, and I had the neckline customised to make it into a square neckline, modernising (from the original scoop) and adding a bit of glamour. The dress itself was very busy so I kept things very simple on the accessories front, wearing just my rings, some old gold and diamond hoops, and a pair of Loeffler Randall Camellia heels in blue for a pop of colour.”

Jack wore a brilliant navy tweed three-piece suit, the colour and texture was far more exciting than a standard wool/cotton blend suit and he teamed his look with a navy and maroon

paisley tie. The groomsmen wore matching suits but with a different coloured tie to ensure the groom stood out.

The bridesmaids all wore a lovely midi dress in a pale green pattern with sash tie. “We wanted the bridesmaids to wear dresses that they loved and felt comfortable in, and would wear over and over again rather than just the once and the Whistles dresses we found were perfect.”

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Isabel and Jack were both relieved on-the-day that it had finally happened! “The wedding was meant to take place in 2020 and was rescheduled three times due to the pandemic so we were just so happy that we’d made it! Having all of our family and friends there three years after sending out the initial invitations was very special, made all the sweeter by our six-month old son being there, as he wasn’t on the original guest list!”

To entertain the guests, the couple opted for a fantastic band called The Sonics that performed an acoustic set during the drinks reception and then entertained the evening arrivals all night long. “They were brilliant, I’ve never seen such a full dancefloor all night long at a wedding,” recalls Isabel. “The selection of songs they choose catered to absolutely everyone ensuring there was never a lull or quiet moment.”

It’s hard to pick, but there were a few standout moments for the couple. “The wedding breakfast was a real highlight – three years and several date changes after first planning the wedding, to look around the marquee and see all of our friends and family there was lovely, especially with lots of new arrivals too (not just our own, my 10-day old nephew as well!),” shares Isabel. “We also really loved our ‘photo shoot’ with Irene, neither of us are comfortable being in front of a camera but Irene was so brilliant and hilarious and immediately made us feel relaxed, and as the only time in the day where it was just the two (three!) of us, it was a surprisingly fun time where we could enjoy it on our own, and take a step back from the madness of the day and drink it all in!”

ROLL CREDITS

Venue, Butley Priory, www.butleypriory.co.uk | Photographer, Irene Yap, www.ireneyapweddings.com | Dress, Rock & Lace, www.rockandlace.com | Hair and make-up, Danielle Daynes, www.danielledaynes.com | Suits, Moss Bros | Flowers, Willow and Wolf Flowers, https://willowandwolf.co.uk | Catering, Peter Harrison, www.peterharrisonchef.co.uk | Wedding rings, Elegance Jewellers Hatton Garden, www.elegancejewellerslondon.co.uk | Sailcloth marquee, Events Under Canvas Marquees, www.eventsundercanvas.co.uk | Band, The Sonics, www.thesonicsband.co.uk | Beer, Adnams Brewery, https://adnams.co.uk | Dessert, Pump Street Bakery, https://pumpstreetchocolate.com Portaloos, Crackerjack Marquee Company, www.crackerjackmarquees.co.uk | Dog chaperone, Jaws, Paws and Claws, wwwawsandpawspetcare.co.uk

LET THE FUN

be-gin

Tom and Steph had a Gin-themed wedding with lots of personal touches

Images courtesy of Steve Mulvey Photography

Stephanie and Thomas met when Steph went to buy a secondhand car and Tom was the car salesman. Steph certainly got a good deal and a lot more than she bargained for! “Tom was over 45-minutes late for the appointment and I almost walked away!” she laughs. “However, his wit and charm won me over! We were attracted to each other’s smiles and sense of humour hitting it off from the start – despite my children climbing in the boots of all the cars in the showroom! We met for breakfast a couple of weeks later and then took things gradually.”

Fast-forward to Christmas Day when Tom proposed. Steph was slightly annoyed as all her presents had come from one shop Joules. Tom asked if Steph wanted to go for a walk – she didn’t as it was raining – Steph then persuaded Tom’s mum to join them! Tom popped the question on one knee on a bridge, crossing The Wash, in Stowmarket! “I thought he had fallen over!” recalls Steph. “I never thought Tom was the marrying kind as we had never really discussed it, so it completely took me by surprise!”

The date was set, 21st May 2022, with Little Green Wedding Barn, Norfolk, setting the scene. Here, Steph tells us more about their big day…

SETTING THE SCENE

Initially, Steph and Tom were due to get married pre-covid, so had to rethink their plans when their original venue never re-opened after the pandemic. Steph fell in love with Little Green Wedding Barn the moment she saw it. “It’s the perfect mix of old and new,” she says. “It has so much character and charm in the older part, and the new extension, with the bar and dancefloor, provided the ideal setting for the evening. Also Paul Yaxley, the owner, was just amazing, he couldn’t have done more to help. He was so thoughtful and understanding especially when we mentioned we had already had the original venue cancel and were on our third date already.”

For the finer details of the day, the pair offered guests mini gin bottles with a personalised label tied with either a pink or grey ribbon to match the colour scheme, while the children’s favours had sweets in them. The table plan was a feature wooden ladder with gin bottles to represent the table. For their place settings, Tom and Steph collected grey pebbles from their favourite beaches they’d visited, and Steph hand-painted them with people’s names. The centrepiece continued the gin theme and were matching bottles to the table plan with pink and white flowers in, a complimentary tonic bottle that had the top cut off which contained a floating candle, and a miniature gin bottle with a bud on a grey base plate.

The big-day bake was a layer of vanilla sponge with grey fondant, a lemon flavour with white fondant icing (Tom’s favourite), and a layer of chocolate orange with pink fondant icing (Steph’s favourite). “On top we had two wooden birds with our initials on as birds are Tom’s favourite animal,” adds Steph. The cake stood on a hand-decorated crate with ‘and they lived happily every after’ on.

On the day, the couple had the beautiful ‘Tilly’ from Beautiful Day Wedding Cars, a lovely old-fashioned convertible car. The food was provided by Little Green Wedding Barn and boasted homemade pâté and onion chutney with walnut and raisin bread to start, followed by mustard crusted roast chicken, millefeuille potatoes and seasonal vegetables, the wedding cake was served as dessert. In the evening they served pulled pork rolls with apple source which went down a storm with guests.

LOOKING THE PART

Steph purchased her dress from Peters Bridal Warehouse. It was a simple Bardot-style dress with a natural waistline, simple and

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elegant which is exactly what the bride wanted. “I accessorised it with silver and pearl necklace and earrings set and wore two silver bracelets: one which was a present from my ‘hens’ and the other was sent from a dear friend in America who couldn’t make the wedding. I also wore a veil which had tiny pearls and diamantés on also purchased from the boutique.”

The groom wore a simple grey three-piece suit from Suits Direct which he accessorised with a pink tie and personalised pink handkerchief. To stand out, only Tom and the best man wore waistcoats, and the groom’s buttonhole also had a budgie charm on it as he lost his beloved budgie during lockdown.

“My bridesmaid Daisy wore a simple blush pink full-length dress and carried a beautiful bouquet with a personalised ribbon,” shares Steph. “Reuben, my son, gave me away and wore a grey three-piece suit with a pink tie, personalised ‘wing man’ socks and a buttonhole with a tractor charm on it as he loves tractors.”

TIME TO CELEBRATE

“We were both so excited that our day had finally arrived. After three postponed dates which were so heart-breaking, for the day to finally arrive was just the best feeling ever,” shares Steph. “Tom was quite nervous in the morning but was calmed by an amazing, cooked breakfast at his parents’ house. I was relaxed from the break of dawn that morning! I loved having my hair and make-up done and enjoyed having that time with the children.”

There were many standout moments for the pair, from Reuben falling asleep in the car on the way to the venue to the collective gasps as Steph walked into the ceremony room. Steph adds, “Reading our personalised vows to each other and having 10 minutes just us as a couple prior to the wedding breakfast was special. My daughter Daisy’s speech was unforgettable, it blew everyone away and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room – she totally stole the show!”

AND RELAX…

After the ‘I dos’ the couple stayed for two nights at The Pigs just outside Holt in Norfolk. “It was the perfect setting; our room had a steam room and sauna, along with a double-ended bath and outside area with sun loungers and a firepit. We ate, slept, explored and were totally able to unwind.”

ROLL CREDITS

“Everyone was up dancing in the evening to the DJ, the dancefloor was full all night!”

A NEW

adventure

Kimberley and Phillip met online, after Kim relocated for a job from Yorkshire to Essex as a single parent. “We have been together eight-and-ahalf years and share a love of music and travelling; we’ve been to Canada, America, Europe and love new adventures!” shares Kim.

Phil proposed in New York on 31st May, 2019, with a bespoke engagement ring he’d had made. That wasn’t there only news at the time, “We had just found out we were pregnant, too!” adds Kim.

The big date was set, 23rd July 2022, with Willow Grange Farm, Norfolk, setting the scene. Here, Kim tells us more about their big day…

Kim and Phil had the epitome of a boho-themed wedding Images courtesy of Sarah Ropke of Key Reflections Photography

The cake was a gorgeous coral colour that really stood out in the tent.

Other standout elements on the day were a neon ‘happily ever after’ sign and vintage toys.

The

We chose our farm venue due to its sustainability, the striking barn and the fact we could make it our own

We had berry gin favours for the adult guests, and goodie bags for the children.

The table centrepieces were floral displays and brass candlesticks to bring in a gold theme.

flowers on the day were a huge priority. We had a few floral installations, ceiling rings, deconstructed arch into the sperry tent, flowers on pew ends and even flowers in our hair!

Guests indulged in antipasti for during the reception drinks, followed by a barbecue feast and salads for main, topped off with mini desserts. The evening food was curry served in bowls!

My bridesmaids, my daughters, wore sage-green dresses.

We knew from the outset we wanted a relaxed boho style.

The groomsmen wore stone-coloured chinos with royalblue tails, and Phil stood out in a sage-green waistcoat and floral tie.

We were both excited, nervous and thrilled to be around our family and friends.

I wore Little Rock by Rue de Seine with a cathedral-length veil and cowboy boots!

We had a glitter bar, acoustic music, plus a live band and DJ in the evening!

We had a mini moon in Dorset for three nights (the night of the wedding we stayed at Poet’s House in Ely) and plan to have our honeymoon in Barbados at the end of November 2022.

Climbing hay bales, the funny speeches, lots of dancing and my daughter running around with goggles on made it such a fun day!

I will always remember the best man’s speech (his use of props!) and the acoustic music walking down the aisle – it was very emotional!

My daughter, and Phil’s stepdaughter, Lliana, gave a lovely reading during our ceremony.

ROLL CREDITS

Venue, Willow Grange Farm, www.willowgrangefarm.com | Photographer, Key Reflections Photography, https://keyreflections.co.uk Dress, White Reflections, www.whitereflections.co.uk| Bridesmiads’ dresses, Maya Deluxe, www.mayadeluxe.com | Hair stylist, Hair by Bernadette, www.facebook.com/hairbybernadette | Make-up artist, Make-up by Rosie, https://makeupbyrosied.com | Suits, Chimney Formal Menswear, www.chimneymenswear.co.uk | Cake, Mary Bakes Yummy Cakes, www.facebook.com/MaryBakesYummyCakes | Flowers, Clemmie and Twine, https://clemmieandtwine.com | Transport, VOWS Vehicles of Wedding Style, www.facebook.com/VOWSDB6 | Catering, Little Piggy Catering, www.littlepiggycatering.co.uk | Wedding rings, Harriet Kelsall, www.hkjewellery.co.uk Acoustic music and band, Joyrider Function Band, www.joyrider.band | Prop hire/furniture, Array Wedding and Event Hire, www.facebook.com/Arrayweddingandeventhire | Sage-green and wooden sign, Etch Twenty Eight, https://etchtwentyeight.com | Macrame backdrop, Sewsnip, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Sewsnip | Copper frame, Ginger Ray, www.gingerray.co.uk | Post-wedding accommodation, Poet’s House, www.poetshouse.co.uk

SEASONAL romance

Wedding and events manager at Applewood Hall, Chloe Edwards, reveals how this sumptuously styled shoot took place at this renowned Norfolk wedding venue. “We scheduled an autumn wedding fair for October so autumn and winter styling were in mind when thinking about dressing the venue,” shares Chloe. “The colours red, burgundy and gold provided a rich and romantic colour palette that fitted with weddings at this time of year. I always find autumn and winter weddings have their own special hint of romance that comes with this cosier time of year.

“Looking further into wedding colour trends for our most recent booked couples for 2023 and 2024, along with just talking to couples viewing our venue for the first time, it seemed sage green was proving to be a

popular choice. I decided to incorporate this into the colour scheme, adding rustic wood details to tie everything together. A bohemian yet almost regal creative concept was developed – perfect for seasonal inspiration for Norfolk countryside wedding venues like us at Applewood Hall. We have a homely feel Wedding Garden too that provides those natural and seasonal coloured backgrounds for the day and with a fairylight-covered birdcage-style gazebo also giving couples a perfect spot for that romantic evening shot too.

“Alongside the romance aspect to the shoot, I wanted a sense of fun to come across, many couples want a more personalised, relaxed and enjoyable day and having our ‘bride and groom’ models being an actual couple in real life meant we hit the brief perfectly.”

Red, burgundy, gold, sage green and woody tones were all combined to show readers how romantic this time of year is Images courtesy of Matt Brasnett – ‘I Do’ Photography

ROLL CREDITS

Venue: Applewood Hall, www.applewoodhall.co.uk | Photography: ‘I Do’ Photography, https://ido-photography.co.uk | Dress and jacket: Pure Brides, www.purebrides.co.uk | Hair stylist: Stacie Goodwin Bridal Hair, www.staciegoodwin.co.uk | Make-up: Michelle Bennett MUA, www. michellebennettmua.com | Suit: www.puresuithire.co.uk | Wedding cake: Claires Custom Cakes, www.clairescustomcakes.co.uk Flowers and gold stands: Inspired Flower Design, www.inspiredflowerdesign.co.uk | Transport: Silverline Limousines & Wedding Cars https://silverlinelimousines.com | Stationery: Rachael Bull Design, www.rachaelbulldesign.co.uk | Calligraphy for table name cards, table plan & all handwritten signage: Clare Warren Calligraphy, https://clarewarrencalligraphy.co.uk | Venue styling (balloons, sequin wall, neon sign, copper frame with drape, gold easel stand): Bespoke to You, www.bespoketoyoustylist.com, (wooden love letters, aisle hexagon with drape and edison bulbs, wooden barrels, cake cart, crates, velvet sofa and armchairs, velvet drapes, patterned rug, gold lanterns, peacock chairs and candlesticks): Belles & Beaus Wedding Styling, https://bellesandbeausweddingstyling.co.uk/weddings-events, (tableware, glassware, napkins and chair dressing): The Banqueting Hire Service, www.banquetinghire.co.uk | Bride and groom models: Aimee VincentBunn and Tom Drake

Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, London and Across the UK

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THROUGH A time walk

A contemporary monochromatic styling with a nod to the nostalgia of love through the ages

A collaboration by The Tiny Planner and Lucie Watson Photography

Molly Middleton, the mastermind and creative extraordinaire behind The Tiny Planner talks us through this stunning collaboration. “‘This elopement-style shoot was based in the heart of Cambridge, surrounded by the history and culture that correlates with being one of the oldest cities in the country. The city thrives on independent business and sense of community as well as maintaining its quaint and quintessentially British demeanour.

“When thinking about what we wanted from this shoot, Lucie Watson Photography and I wanted to create something fresh and modern but that had a nod to the nostalgia of love through the ages. Creating an entirely black and white photoscape lent us towards a monochromatic palette with focus on textures and shapes.

“When coming across The Graduate online, I feel as though we found a true gem. The quirky hotel is nestled alongside the riverbank and is described as an ‘idyllic retreat inspired by centuries of rich traditions, storied histories and academic life.

“I’ve always loved the intimacy that an elopement allows. The innocent love and childish nature that comes with an elopement is what initially attracted both myself and Lucie to creating a shoot in this style. Spending the morning in bed together, getting dressed together or finding a cute brunch spot for your wedding breakfast. There is something so pure about an elopement that we challenged ourselves to capture.

“As a wedding planner and stylist, I’m dedicated to using local businesses and making the most of what the area has to offer. By sourcing only local suppliers we were able to fufill this idea as well as find some of Cambridge’s best kept secrets such Jack’s Gelatos and Scadamore’s Punting Company.

“For our tablescape we really wanted to lean into the idea of a modern yet timeless design that highlighted the use of simple and affordable tableware. With modern stationery supplied by Liv Laermann, paired with pure white full blooms by So Blooming Beautiful, and black accessories from Miss Carylese and Co, we were able to create a staple design that I believe will be seen throughout the wedding community for the next few years to come. Although monochromatic palettes are seen typically in a more contemporary style we wanted to inject this within a vintage moodboard to show its flexibility for the present-day couple.

“In an effortless and twee approach to wedding style and tradition we were able to capture this stunning couple, not only in photo but in soul. We styled our beautiful Rhea in a gorgeous square-necked mini with gathered skirt and puff sleeves, with a double tiered light clip veil from Lisa Lyons Bridal, paired with the glam and vintage style accessories from Victoria Louise Jewellery. Sam paired this get up with a slim-fit, 1950s-style checked suit and a slicked back quiff – think, Baby and Johnny finally get hitched! Hope you enjoy.”– Molly

ROLL CREDITS

Planner & Stylist: @thetinyplannerco www.thetinyplanner.com | Photography: @luciewatsonphotography https://luciewatsonphotography.com | Venue: @graduatehotels www.graduatehotels.com/cambridge | Florist: @sobloomingbeautiful www.sobloomingbeautiful.co.uk | Bridalwear: @lisa.lyons.bridal www.lisalyons.co.uk | Accessories: @victorialouiseaccessories www.victoria-louise.co.uk | Tableware: @misscarlysleandco_events www.misscarlysleandco.com | Make-up: @makeupbyzhana www.makeupbyzhana.com | Stationery: www.instagram.com/livlaermann | Bridal nightwear: @silkgarters www.silkgarters.co.uk

Punting: @puntingcambridge www.scudamores.com | Ice cream: @gelatojack www.jacksgelato.com

On-the-day assistant: @carmelaweddings www.carmelaweddings.co.uk | Models: www.instagram.com/rheandsam

To dine for

From 2023 trends to seasonal catering, we have wedding food covered!

When a wedding invitation comes through the door, inbox or other, here at County Wedding Magazine HQ we’re not afraid to admit the first thing we get excited about is the food. We’re obsessed, our snack table is always full in the office and we love sharing our latest café, tearoom, and restaurant finds as well as discussing all things GBBO and MasterChef. So, when it comes to a wedding, the tummies start rumbling and it’s the million-dollar question: I wonder what the food will be like? With stats showing an increase in 20% for the catering allowance when it comes to couples arranging their wedding budgets, it’s great news for foodies. Nearlyweds, even if they’re reducing guest numbers for a saving, they’re ensuring those left on the guest list, are fully fed, watered, indulged and satisfied.

The beauty of modern nuptials is that the culinary fair really is varied, and each year the wedding industry for big-day catering is even more innovative, creative and, of course, delicious. Anything goes! You want canapés and a cocktail hour only, you got it! You want toad in the hole miniatures with sticky toffee pudding, why not? Are you wondering if you can have a sushi wedding breakfast and curry for the evening do, hell yeah! It’s your day and it’s your way – this is also a key trend for 2023 so keep reading…

#TRENDING

There’s possibly too much choice now when it comes to wedding day catering, how do you narrow it down? In 2023, which is still set to be a bumper wedding year post-pandemic, these are the foodie trends to whet your appetite.

Mains with a side of… entertainment! Having chefs cooking the food live in front of guests will be huge in 2023. These hosting stations provide interactive entertainment value at wedding breakfast and receptions. Smaller versions of this trend would be firepits where you can toast your own sweet or savoury treats or hiring an al fresco gourmet pizza oven company to cook up some dinner for your evening attendees.

A tipple or two Cocktails: a trend that’s going nowhere fast, in fact it’s only gaining in momentum. Whether you host a cocktail hour for your reception drinks, or in the evening pre-dancefloor, or serve personalised cocktails all day and night, it’s a sure-fire hit with guests! Psst, don’t forget the mocktails, Irish coffees or dirty hot chocolates to boot!

Gimme junk food Evening bacon baps and fish and chip cones are making way for the late-night junk food/fast food trend. Think hot dogs, dirty burgers, loaded fries, waffles, crêpes, churros and pizza!

Surf and turf

Not just for the Aussies, we love a barbecue here in the UK too, and this can be the star of the show at your wedding breakfast. You can keep a formal setting by serving burgers, buns, slaw, potatoe salad and all the trimming to the tables, or cook up and grill al fresco in front of your guests. Specifically, the Kamado barbecue will be popular in 2023. This type of Japanese barbecue allows you to grill and smoke any kind of food at the same time.

Globally-inspired dishes

Sushi stations, gourmet pizzas, Mexican, American, Japanese, Peruvian food, bring the best of the world’s cuisine to your wedding breakfast. Fusion inspired menus are also trending, especially if you and your loved ones have different heritages; it’s also a beautiful (and delicious) way of personalising your day.

Let’s get personal

Personalised menus are becoming increasingly popular, with couples getting married choosing dishes that mean something special to them and their loved ones. Nowadays, many couples are incorporating a family recipe, or something special that they ate on a favourite holiday.

Sustainable catering

With more and more couples wanting to have an eco-friendly wedding, it’s no surprise that sustainable catering is on the rise. Caterers are championing locally sourced ingredients, using recyclable serving ware and even helping couples with ways to reduce food waste.

SEASONAL FLAIR

Not only can trends and personalisation inspire your wedding day menus, but so can the seasons. Think warming flavours in winter and light dishes in the summer. Here, two local experts, Amy-Rose Ford of Stowmarket-based Arabella Reeve Catering, and Emma Boubaker of Holt-based Bayfield Catering, share their top tips and advice for creating seasonal dishes.

Amy-Rose says, “Suffolk has many incredible suppliers for fresh, seasonal produce and exceptional quality seafood and meat so we aim to source things locally where possible. We start by discussing with our couples what sort of style of food and dining they are looking for and then go from there to design a menu for them (or have plenty of sample menus to offer some inspiration if needed). If they would like an informal style of dining then grazing board starters followed by a barbecue served to the tables, and a giant pavlova loaded with seasonal berries to share is always a winner.

Fruit cakes

No, not the ones your grandparents love – although this is a nice way to honour them on the big day – but adding natural fruity flavours to wedding cakes: raspberry, lemon and elderflower anyone?

Alternatively, if they’re looking for something more sophisticated, a plated meal may be more appropriate and a balanced menu of a light fish or vegetarian starter, followed by a richer main course and finishing with a trio of desserts (to include an espresso martini if they like it boozy!) is more elegant.

“For spring/summer weddings, starters such as asparagus with saffron mayonnaise and hazelnut dressing, or local crab with confit cherry tomatoes and tarragon oil are a hit,” shares Amy-Rose. “Rich meats such as spring lamb, beef and king prawns are versatile and can be offered as either stylish plates of food; or barbecued and served on our rustic boards to the table with vibrant salads using the abundance of colourful produce such as beetroot, radishes, fresh peas, asparagus and heirloom tomatoes. Our ‘grab & go’ options have proven to be popular, and include things like confit duck wraps, loaded fries or vegan mac ‘n’ cheese.”

Emma adds, “We’re so lucky to have an

abundance of local fish seafood and homegrown salads, squashes and meat products within a 10-mile radius to us here in Blakeney on the north Norfolk coast; our seasonal dishes all work around this, the availability to the business and what is on offer at the time.

“Spring/summer I’m fortunate to have the leaf salads and fresh pea shoots grown at New Barn Farm by Jonny Cubitt – who’s totally my food hero. It’s a small farm with big produce yards away from our kitchen. It’s picked early in the morning and delivered to us straight after. We use this all summer for weddings, it dresses all our salads and accompanies the main dishes – it’s divine!” Emma continues, “With local crab, lobster and shellfish from Willie in the village, along with handpicked samphire from Louise’s bike on the quay, this is all used in our sharing platters which are a huge hit at summer weddings for people to try something new. Strawberries and berries handpicked at Sharrington Strawberries are on the plate by the end of the day, and used for desserts like meringues, tarts and mousses.”

Amy-Rose says “In autumn/winter, a comfort food type feel is what our clients often go for, but still just as beautiful on the plate. Something classic like guinea fowl supreme with pommes anna and white wine jus, or the slow-roasted belly of pork with caramelised apple puree are popular at that time of year. Heartier dishes such as homemade game pie (individual or to share), or loin of venison with rich red wine jus and root vegetables can make the best of the season. Evening food may be a cake of cheese using local cheeses, a grazing antipasti table with mini desserts, or mini fish and chip cones.”

Emma adds, “In the autumn we use the meat sharing platters which consist of the local beef lamb and pork that is farmed all around by our amazing butcher HV Graves who have their own herd of cows. I regularly visit the butchers

to see what they have on offer and anything special they may have in we can add to the menu at the time – I’m spoilt for choice! In the autumn we’re lucky to have the squashes they produce to make soups, roasted veggie dishes and stews. Having local suppliers and a great relationship with these people over the years helps build my seasonal menus for all types of catering, mainly the weddings, but also the fine dining in the winter months. I’m truly grateful to them and these products to wow our clients.”

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.

www.rosaclara.es/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

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

Dare to wear denim www.davidsbridal.co.uk

Pnina Tornai for www.azazie.com

La Creme is an enchanting bijou boutique offering a personal one to one appointment within an intimate setting, showcasing an exquisite range of designer gowns.

bride is the total focus for Lucy & Jill who believes passionately that your wedding gown should be an extension of you, your personality and your unique style.

A DRESS Name and

Find your dream wedding gown from one of these local boutiques

PERLA NOVA BRIDAL

Where: Hadleigh, Suffolk Prices: £1,800 to £3,800 Sizes: 6 to 16

Owner Kirsty Vaughan says… The lowdown: Perla Nova brings that coveted bridal cool to the heart of Suffolk. Championing some seriously slick designers (we’re talking about the likes of Made With Love, Jane Hill and WONÁ Concept) not to mention a truly personal experience for each and every bride that steps through our door, we’re with you every step of the way. Our carefully curated bridal concept studio boasts an unrivalled blend of personal shopping meets bridal – all tailored to the modern bride. We bring the ultimate bridal mix: a relaxed, contemporary studio environment, customisable gowns with optimal fit, your own personalised edit of gowns, on-site parking, a personal stylist (with two decades of experience), bubbles (naturally) and a seriously luxe bridal experience to boot. Favourite dress in store: Currently, it’s Made With Love’s Archie

Top tip: Be true to your own style; pick a bridal boutique that reflects you and makes you feel comfortable.

Appointments: 01473 948 768 | https://perlanova.co.uk

AIME MOI ENCORE - PRE-LOVED BRIDALWEAR AND ACCESSORIES

Where: King’s Lynn, Norfolk

Prices: £100 to £800 and rental Sizes: 6 to 24

Owner Zera Rowell says…

The lowdown: Welcome to Aime Moi Encore, translating to ‘love me again’. My true love for all things French, antique and unique inspired the name and interior décor of the boutique. Based in the beautiful, Georgian St Ann’s House, it provides the perfect ambience for our bridal appointments, with the surrounding garden and overlooking Chapel. Our pre-loved wedding dresses mean that not only do our brides grab a bargain, but they are helping the world to become more sustainable. Each dress has been hand-chosen by me ensuring only the best quality dresses and accessories are available for your special day.

Whilst trying to save for my own wedding, it became clear to me how much of a struggle it was to find my dream dress. After losing out on income during Covid19 and some terrible bridal store experiences, I had no choice but to order a second-hand wedding dress online. Well, one dress soon turned into three and the whole process was so frustrating. All I wished for, was to experience the ‘bridal dress shopping experience’ where I could try on as many dresses as I needed without paying a fortune for my dress; this is when I decided to create my own business. Aime Moi Encore offers a true bridal experience: no rushed appointments, no pushy sales team and welcoming of any entourage the bride wishes. I offer a bespoke service where I work with you to find the dress for your special day and we now also offer dress rental too! We do operate on an appointment-only basis to ensure our brides receive the best possible service.

Favourite dress in store: Watters, a beautiful sparkly crochet lace design priced £750.

Top tip: Wear comfy/well fitted undies. I cannot put into words how important this is, I’m a huge supporter of a pair of good ol’ Bridget Jones pants or shapewear too! Appointments: 07931 594 840 | www.aimemoiencore.co.uk/bookings

THREADS BRIDAL

Where: Reepham, Norfolk Prices: £150 to £600 Sizes: 6 to 20

Owner Laura Arnold says… The lowdown: Threads is a sustainably sourced bridal shop offering brides a high-quality selection of secondhand dresses. The majority of my dresses are current season (still available in many shops in Norwich) for a quarter of the original price. Also from a sustainability perspective, the secondhand market is flooded with dresses in near perfect condition that are dying for another outing so I’m pleased to offer an alternate solution for brides that might not have such a large budget to spend on their big day but still want to look and feel amazing.

Favourite dress in store: Watters by Willowby’s Orion. It’s so sparkly and special, the perfect dress for a Christmas or New Year’s Eve wedding!

Top tip: Try on every style, even something that you wouldn’t have originally chosen. Most brides that come to me leave with something completely unexpected so try on with an open mind.

Appointments: www.threadsbridal.co.uk

Image by photographer Lizzie Knights

SILK & MAPLE

Where: Sudbury, Suffolk

Prices: £250 to £4,300

Sizes: 8 to 22 but can be order sizes 0 to 36

Owners Tegan and Roberta say…

The lowdown: We are an award-winning bridal shop with a curated collection of modern styles with romantic touches based in Sudbury, Suffolk. We provide private appointments for brides-to-be and her guests with a dedicated bridal stylist to help the bride find the dress of her dreams! We offer multiple appointment types that are tailored to each bride to create a bespoke and unforgettable experience.

Favourite dress in store: Such a hard decision! Probably Belle by Sarah Alouache or Gigi by Ellis Bridals!

Top tip: Start your bridal journey when you are ready to find the one! In a dreamworld this is 12-18 months before your big day, but this is such a personal thing so it’s always best to shop when you are ready.

Appointments: 01787 827 373 | www.silkandmaple.co.uk

BOUTIQUE OF DREAMS

Where: Hingham, Norfolk

Prices: £1,300 to £3,000

Sizes: 8 to 24

Owner Laura Bartrum says…

The lowdown: We offer modern, elegant, fashion-forward wedding dresses but with traditional values at the heart of everything we do for our brides. Our main goal with our appointments is to make sure the brides, not only find their dream gown, but will have had an experience they’ll remember forever. We want them to feel well looked after, comfortable and reassured, whilst being excited about finding their dream dress with us.

We make sure there’s complete privacy during appointments, so it’s a fully exclusive and inclusive experience, to only be shared with their guests and the bridal consultants.

Favourite dress in store: Lika by Eva Lendel is a firm favourite.

Top tip: Bring two to three guests maximum who you know will support you. Don’t overthink things, and if your heart tells you something is right, then go for it.

Appointments: 01953 851 444 | www.boutiqueofdreams.co.uk

Providing a personal and unforgettable wedding dress shopping experience for every bride.

Anna and her team are with you every step of the way, creating incredible memories and your dream bridal style. Featuring a warm, inviting showroom where you can browse their entire collection, three private bridal rooms with seating for family and friends, and a friendly team of knowledgeable stylists, Pure is an essential shopping destination when searching for your wedding dress.

8-10 Lower Goat Lane Norwich NR2 1EL www.purebrides.co.uk 01603 625000 info@purebrides.co.uk

Elodie by @evieyoungbridal

West by @evieyoungbridal

BURR BRIDAL CAMBRIDGE

Where: King Street, Cambridge

Prices: £850 to £2,500 and a sales rail from £500

Sizes: Size 6 to 22 in store but can order from size zero to 32 depending on the designer

Owner Kim Burr says…

The lowdown: We’re an independent boutique with a reputation for our excellent customer service, the store’s elegant interior and décor has a calm vibe which is the ideal backdrop to our designer gowns. We’re so lucky to have some of the most sought-after bridal designers in store offering quality and affordability. We cater for all sizes and styles, and our website is updated weekly to show our current stock, our sale stock and everything you need to know about Burr Bridal. We’re going into our tenth year at our store, although I’ve been in the industry for 25 years, so boast a wealth of knowledge and experience. Our ethos is that every bride visiting our store will remember having the best time finding her dress.

Favourite dress: That’s a difficult question, however I do absolutely love Sincerity 44322

Top tip: When coming to an appointment bring only guests whom you would listen to for fashion advice, or whom you admire for their style. Give an honest budget to your consultant so they can work with you.

Appointments: 01223 323 230 | www.burrbridal.co.uk

VIP appointments on Sundays when available.

TIMBERHILL BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

Where: Norwich, Norfolk

Prices: £40 to £350 Sizes: 6 to 16 and up

The lowdown: Planning a wedding can be expensive, so why not reduce the cost and help those affected locally by cancer at the same time? Big C Cancer Charity’s Bridal Boutique at Timberhill, has a great selection of wedding attire including bridal gowns, shoes and accessories, mother-of-the-bride outfits and more.

From wonderful pre-loved wedding dresses that have been donated to Big C, as well as end-of-line stock donated directly from wedding boutiques, browse the bridal gallery online and book an appointment to try the dresses on, or just pop in and see what you can discover.

Top tip: Don’t rule out purchasing a second-hand dress!

Appointments: 01603 761 029 | www.big-c.co.uk/bridal

THE GLASS SLIPPER

Where: Woodston, Peterborough Prices: £1,000 and under Sizes: 6 to plus-size Owners Marie King and Stefanie King say…

The lowdown: We’re a family run boutique close to Peterborough city centre with a beautiful range of bridal gowns, bridesmaids’ dresses, flowergirl dresses and prom gowns to suit all budgets. We operate by appointment only, so we can give you a full and personal service with a dedicated consultant. Favourite dress in store: TGS00100W, sample in store in ivory, size 16. Dress is available in ivory or a latte hue, sizes 6 to 22.

Top tip: Be open-minded and try on a bit of everything; give other styles a try as you may be surprised at what you find.

Appointments: 07871 341 376 | www.the-glass-slipper.co.uk

Hair & Make-up, Jeahan Liz Tuddenham | Model, Jessica Fisher | Photographer, Simon Watson | Stylist, Sarah Henry, The Pretty Parlour

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

a

bridal

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

(£17). Check out www.illamasqua.com

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

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

flick for

vintage

vibe,

Amy Red

READY, SET, SHOP

Q&A Fashion

Tips for brides when shopping for their dream dress

Zera Knights, of Aime Moi Encore advises…  BE

OPEN MINDED

Often, brides have a strong idea of a certain style that they want –always be open to the idea that this style may not be the one 

WEAR COMFY/WELL FITTED UNDIES

I cannot put into words how vital this is. I’m a huge supporter of a pair of good ole Bridget Jones pants or shapewear too! 

SELECT YOUR ENTOURAGE WISELY

This is so, so, so important! Keep your entourage small; we suggest up to three people is best. Too many opinions can be confusing and, if aunty Deb is too opinionated it may be wise to leave her at home! Unwanted comments can be disheartening and a confidence knocker.

REMEMBER IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU

Often brides rely too heavily on opinions of others. Remember, it’s your dress and your day. Allowing your entourage to select a dress or two for you to try is great but remember to take control of your

appointment and set your limits. Trying on dresses can be tiring and trying too many can be confusing.

TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Don’t be afraid to try something different. We always suggest trying on something that may be a different colour than you imagined. Trust me, it’s always so surprising!

IGNORE THE SIZE LABEL

It’s no secret that wedding dress sizing is incredibly mean at times! We try our best to label the dresses at their ‘true size’, but don’t fixate on the label size, as it’s usually always completely out. In most cases, you may need to size up one or two sizes.

It can be so daunting before your appointment, with so many thoughts crossing your mind. Please don’t worry – we are here to help. If you have any questions before you arrive, just message the boutique. Try not to overthink, you will look amazing, no matter your size, shape etc.

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.

www.wedding-wellness.co.uk

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS

Wedding 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

HOT TOPIC

2023 wedding trend predictions

GRUB’S UP!

In 2023, catering budgets for couples have seen an increase of 20% with nearlyweds wanting to give their guests tantalising food and drink choices. These are the foodie trends to be inspired by:

Having chefs cooking the food live in front of guests.

Cocktails: whether you host a cocktail hour for your reception drinks, or serve personalised cocktails.

Barbecues specifically the Kamado barbecue will be popular in 2023. This type of Japanese barbecue allows you to grill and smoke any kind of food at the same time.

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Globally-inspired dishes and fusion menus.

SEASONAL BLOOMS

Lucy Spencer, of Suffolk-based Hall Lane Flowers, shares her 2023 wedding flower predictions:

As for trends, displays and arrangements that are British and seasonal will be on point.

The message about climate change is gradually influencing people. The awareness of micro plastics in the environment – floral foam is one of the worst polluters and extremely harmful to the environment – is getting through to people and affecting their choices. Couples are searching for florists who use seasonal, British flowers and don’t use floral foam in their arrangements.

There are still those that want giant roses in November, but the trend is definitely towards seasonal.

Lucy Spencer

www.instagram.com/hall_lane_flowers

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

Late-night junk food. Think hot dogs, dirty burgers, loaded fries, waffles, crêpes, churros and pizza!

Personalised menus are becoming increasingly popular, incorporating a family recipe, or something special to the couple that they ate on a favourite holiday.



Sustainable catering: eco-friendly weddings championing locally sourced ingredients, using recyclable serving ware and reducing food waste.

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Fruity cakes: adding natural fruity flavours to wedding cakes i.e. raspberry, lemon and elderflower.

Turn to page 61 to read Your East Anglian Wedding’s wedding catering feature for more inspiration.

MMMM CAKE!

East Anglia-based Two Magpies Bakery has listed the trends they see emerging in 2023:

 Bold colours — accompanied by coordinating flowers.

 Stencilling. It can elevate a classic simple cake with a touch of texture or gold leaf.

 Texture. A free-hand textured design can be most striking between smooth iced tiers.

 Naked or Semi naked cakes — decorated with fresh berries and blooms, coordinated with the venue décor.

Two Magpies Bakery https://twomagpiesbakery.co.uk

AISLE STYLE

Roberta and Tegan, the team behind Suffolk-based bridal boutique Silk & Maple, share their 2023 bridalwear trends to look out for:

 Sparkles  Statement sleeves

 Complete simplicity

Roberta & Tegan | www.silkandmaple.co.uk

TABLE TALK

Kate Cartwright from tableware brand Burleigh Pottery offers some tips on the trends coming up in 2023, so you can gain some inspiration for your tablescape.

Bold colours: The wedding market has been dominated by neutral colours for a while, but now the fashion is starting to turn back to big, bold colours and this is reflected in the tablescapes that are starting to be created. So, go bold with your table decorations and flowers, and choose a colour palette or a theme that really suits you and your partner. There are lots of ways to bring your colour scheme into your tablescape; consider the colours of your tableware as well as the tablecloth and even the napkins.

Unique lighting: 2023 is also the year for unique lighting at weddings. Candles are a classic choice for helping to make a tablescape romantic, try out some different stands for the candles and try to pick candles that go with your colour scheme. You can also opt for more contemporary and chic lighting ideas such as hanging bulbs.

Pressed flowers: You’ve probably noticed designs for pressed flower cakes cropping up recently, and so it’s no surprise that this will continue to be a trend in 2023, both in food and table décor. Pressed flowers are a perfect way to add some whimsical romance to your tablescape, not only the cake but table decorations, napkin holders and other elements.

Personal touches: In terms of your tablescape, this might mean personalised centrepieces or place settings. Or, you might add custom decorations that you’ve had specially made for your event. Your personalisation could also come from designing your own signature cocktails or dishes for the day, so that your guests can benefit from your culinary palette.

Kate Cartwright | www.burleigh.co.uk Psst! Read more about tablescaping online now: www.youreastanglian.wedding

Sarah Alouache Bridal

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.

WIN A MINI-MOON WORTH UP TO

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.youreastanglian.wedding

Pure Image Photography

Louise Documentary Photography

Charlotte Leys Photography

Your East Anglian Wedding is just one of our many County Wedding titles − find out more on our website www.youreastanglian.wedding We

A luxurious country house hotel, built around a magnificent mansion dating back to 1448 and now a Grade 1 listed building. Hintlesham Hall is widely recognised as one of the most prestigious and romantic wedding venues in Suffolk and has everything you require for your perfect day. Every wedding is unique and our experienced Events Team will passionately work with you from your initial enquiry to the day itself to create your dream wedding. Coupled with the Hall’s reputation for excellent food, friendly and attentive service, luxury surroundings and memorable photo opportunities, all blend together to ensure you have a truly special day.

We offer a flexible range of Wedding Packages including Exclusive Use of the Hall. Book an appointment to tour this beautiful wedding venue with Tracy and discuss your personal requirements. www.hintleshamhall.com