Home to one of England’s highest waterfalls Canonteign Falls is a magnificent example of a Victorian folly set in 90 acres of ancient woodland and estate on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park in Devon. The waterfalls themselves descend for over 70m through ferns and woods. At the base of the falls, the woodland gives way to meadows and lakes making this one of the most breathtaking venues in Devon. With a lakeside Pagoda, event Barn, excellent facilities, and free parking the site is well set up to service any bespoke event and provides an impressive backdrop to suit any occasion. Our small but experienced event team is on hand to coordinate all events seamlessly at Canonteign Falls estate. Please contact Managing director Lianne Bell on events@canonteign.com to arrange a site visit.
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Valentina Val Photo was the talented photographer of our cover image this issue, taken at Hotel Victoria as part of a styled shoot. Turn to page 51 to see the shoot in full and to see more of Valentina’s work, visit www.valentinavalphoto.com
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Catch discounts up for grabs TOPIC
Local offer big-day
Win a honeymoon in Portugal
These a
47 DARE TO BE BOLD
This styled shoot enjoyed a bright fuchsia pink and romantic red theme
51 LET’S ELOPE!
Hotel Victoria in Newquay provided the coastal setting for this Cornish elopement shoot
55 ROSES ARE RED
The perfect pick for a winter wedding
59 GOOD TIMES
Plan the perfect hen event
66 OUR HAPPILY EVER AFTER County Wedding Magazines’ editor Melissa Cullen her wedding
WEDDINGSREAL Olly’s Henry’s & Walled Garden followed a stylish pale light and colour Josh’s
Yes, you guessed it, I have been lucky enough to take a trip to Spain’s vibrant capital city this year and it didn’t disappoint! Madrid has always featured high on my travel wish list and thanks to Gran Hotel Inglés, this trip became a reality – read all about it in our honeymoon section.
For those of you not braving the airport crowds this year and vacationing closer to home, our latest issue is packed with staycation ideas, from the stylish Hotel Victoria in Newquay that provided the luxurious backdrop for our Cornish elopement-themed shoot to the original American Airstream glamping experience at Dittisham Hideaway in Dartmouth.
Check out www.yourdevoncornwall.wedding and our social channels for fashion, beauty, and wedding styling ideas and we’ve recently created our very own County Wedding Magazines YouTube channel, providing our readers with plenty of wedspiration from venue tours to dream dresses. Catch up on beauty reviews and how-tos from our beauty editor and peek behind the scenes of styled shoots featured in our titles past and present. You can even be a fly on the wall at some real weddings and you’ll also find local supplier interviews packed with tips and tricks.
We’re adding more content all the time, so why not hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a thing? It’s your one-stop shop for wedding vid-spiration! Simply head to YouTube and search County Wedding Magazines.
Happy planning and I’ll see you next issue!
Claire
The
I love bunny tails and have pink ones displayed in a vase in my fireplace. When this image of a wedding pageshootexclusiveinmythemdecoratedcakewithlandedininbox,Iwaslove!Seeourstyledinfullon51.
How cool is this original American Airstream 1234 at Dittisham Hideaway in Devon? The property has just announced its Romance stay showcased on page 9.
I’m not a happy camper, more of a glamper, so when I saw the interior of the Ash Lotus Belle Tent on page 59 that can be booked through Canvas & Cabins, I made a note to visit!
The Sterts theatre located in Liskeard in Cornwall provided the dramatic setting for Charlotte and Olly’s celebration. All is revealed on page 28.
Meet Magician Lewis Belcher on page 63. Why not hire him for a hen night with a difference?
The Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth’s first luxury hotel established in 1863 has teamed up with Drakes Jewellers, a local familyrun business to launch The Duke Mini Wedding Collection on Wednesday 21st September 2022 from 5 pm until 8 pm. The event is free to attend and will showcase the iconic hotel dressed to impress for a wedding along with a hand-picked selection of trusted suppliers to help couples create a magical and memorable day. There’ll also be goodie bags and prizes to be won. To book, visit orhttps://thedukeofcornwall.co.uk/request-a-wedding-brochurecom/e/mini-wedding-collection-tickets-376017688027www.eventbrite.ThenewWeddingCollectionBrochurecanberequestedhere:Tofindoutmoreortobookastayatthehotel,call01752275850visithttps://thedukeofcornwall.co.uk
The Bedford Hotel located in Tavistock, Devon, is welcoming couples to its Wedding Open Day on Saturday 29th October 2022 between 10 am and 3 pm. Guests will get the opportunity to view the function rooms which will be dressed for a wedding and to meet the experienced wedding coordinators. They’ll be offering delicious homemade scones with jam and clotted cream for everyone who attends and there’s no need to Tobook.find out more, visit www.bedford-hotel.co.uk/wedding-open-days Turn to page 40 to see our real wedding that took place at the sister property the Two Bridges Hotel.
This secluded hideaway located in the heart of the south Devon countryside nestled in nine acres of a private wooded valley with a stream is a collection of four treehouses, five new luxury shepherds huts and an original American Airstream 1234. It’s just one mile from the River Dart and the historic village of Dittisham and only four miles from the scenic port of Dartmouth and nearby beaches.
This self-catered accommodation benefits from a high level of design and carefully considered amenities; from the finest Egyptian cotton bed linen and a generous welcome hamper of West Country produce and a bottle of wine, to private decks equipped with a traditional wood-fired cedar hot tub, hammock, outdoor chess set, outdoor table football, sun loungers, and a Weber barbecue with a dining area. Each accommodation also has access to the eco-car charging points, electric wheelbarrows for use during the stay, a doggie welcome pack for four-legged guests and a dog and boot wash area.
The new Romance Stay priced from £995 for a three-night, midweek, off-peak stay in a shepherd’s hut includes:
•A three-night break for two people in luxury accommodation
•A romantic hamper plus pink champagne, strawberries and cream and fresh flowers on arrival
•A heated hot tub
•A continental breakfast basket delivered on the first morning
•A one-hour complimentary dinner reservation at a local restaurant
•A couple’s retreat massage
To book, visit https://dittishamhideaway.co.uk
DUKE OF CORNWALL HOTEL LAUNCHES THE DUKE Scan to view videoMartyn Norsworthy of Norsworthy Photography has achieved the distinction of winning two Bronze awards in the Guild of Professional Photographers Image of the Month competition, which attracts more than 1500 entries each month. The Guild of Photographers is a highly respected national photographic body and its members are dedicated to enhancing their skills in the art, craft and profession of photography. Those in business are also committed to achieving the highest standards of professionalism for the benefit of their customers.
Steven and Lesley Thirsk (the Directors of the Guild) said, “We’re both delighted that Martyn has achieved this award. The Guild has very demanding standards when judging photography competitions. The judging is undertaken by a panel of internationally recognised experts from a variety of photographic backgrounds, so it is an achievement to be, quite rightly, proud of!”
On hearing the news Martyn said, “It’s great news! That’s five months in a row now to win Bronze Awards, 2022 is coming along nicely.”
To book Martyn for your wedding, visit www.norsworthyphotography.com
Take the plunge at the Old Ferry Inn located in the village of Bodinnick, Cornwall where the hot tub is now open exclusively for residents (adults only) on the upstairs terrace of this historic former coaching inn set on the banks of the River Fowey. Guests can watch the sunset over Fowey Harbour with a cocktail in hand and the upstairs terrace is open in all weathers for boat watching.
To book, visit www.theoldferryinn.co.uk
To book, visit https://tolcarnebeach.co.uk SCOOPS MORE BRONZE AWARDS
Cornwall’s family-run hotel Tolcarne Beach Village has added new rooms for 2022 which are home to private seafront hot tubs.
Made up of a collection of beach huts and boutique hotel rooms set on a private beach on the Cornish Coast, the village is open all year round. Facilities available at the luxury destination include a dedicated surf school, an on-site award-winning restaurant, private hot tub suites and boat tours. The hotel is child-friendly, making it the ideal choice for a family-moon and dog-friendly rooms are also available.
Inspired by its picturesque surroundings on the cliffs of Mawgan Porth, Bedruthan hotel and spa has unveiled the renovation of 32 adult-only Seaview Doubles and Non-Seaview Rooms. They provide the ideal base for surfing, unwinding in the spa garden, tasting the best of the Southwest at The Herring restaurant or getting crafty at the hotel’s creative studio.
Red Hotel’s marketing director Emma Benney commented, “Our new rooms encompass the spirit of Cornwall and aim to help guests feel at peace. It was important for us to meet the changing demand from guests and make more of the facilities we have for adults in the hotel and on our doorstep.”
The Scandi-style design combines bold colour schemes and neutral tones to create a calming environment in harmony with the ocean view. The Seaview Doubles are designed with cool grey and neutral tones, reminiscent of stone found on the beach below. True to the Red Hotel’s commitment to sustainability, walls are built from natural cork that’s fully biodegradable. Each room has a monsoon drench shower and a large deep-set bathtub placed against glass windows offering panoramic views of the Atlantic ocean. Guests can also enjoy a comfortable lounge area and floor-to-ceiling windows with uninterrupted views of the sea. The rooms also include sustainable refillable toiletries, organic cotton bed linen, Lavazza coffee machines and a selection of teas. Prices start from £210 based on two adults sharing.
The Non-Seaview Rooms include sustainable refillable toiletries, organic cotton bed linen, coffeemaking facilities and a selection of teas. These newly refurbished rooms embrace a comforting, organic style with a variety of colour schemes similarly inspired by the coast. Neutral tones and stripped wood flooring are charmingly combined with vibrant colours including ocean blues, green inspired by the cliff-top flora and fauna and sunset-inspire oranges, yellows, and reds. The bathrooms of Bedruthan’s Non-Seaview Rooms are designed with cool greys and neural tones and host a monsoon drench shower and bath. They offer more space than the Seaview Doubles and dog-friendly options. Prices start from £165 based on two adults sharing.
To book, call 01637 860 860 or visit www.bedruthan.com
Knightor Winery has crafted a new product designed to tap into the growing demand for canned spirits, wines and cocktails. The company, renowned for its collection of fine wines and range of vermouths, is aiming to inspire a new audience with the new canned Aprèz rosé spritz.
Bursting with refreshing Mediterranean flavours and zesty citrus, the new product is the first of its kind to be produced in the county. Created by chief winemaker David Brocklehurst, only the finest ingredients have been used to establish the taste. David tells us, “For us, the ingredients we select are essential, both for the purity of aroma and flavour they provide.”
Marketing executive Gemma Kettle adds, “Convenience and versatility were two of our main drivers when exploring this concept. We wanted to create a beverage not only to be enjoyed during a memorable moment, but also for those occasions where you fancy a glass of wine, but can’t justify opening a whole bottle; a 25cl can is a perfect solution to that dilemma. The initial reaction has been excellent from both a design and taste perspective. We recently conducted a blind taste event against a market-leading spritz and out of the 50 attendees, over 95% selected Aprèz as their favourite option. Now that we have hit the market, we are excited to see how the spritz is received on a broader scale.”
To find out more and to shop, visit www.knightor.com
MOLE VALLEY FARMERS LINK UP WITH UK BARBECUE EXPERT Mole linkedFarmersValleyhasupwith UK barbecue expert, food influencer and cookery book author isexpansion.foodpromoteBawdonMarcustotheirfreshanddrinkMarcusinternationallyrenowned
for his barbecue expertise and he runs the UK BBQ School near his home in Cullompton, Devon.
He said, “I’m a big fan of Mole Valley Farmers and I was impressed by the food offered at my local store. There are some top-quality meat and dairy products and they stock everything you need for a decent barbecue.”
Marcus filmed at the Cullompton store using equipment and food from the store including the Mole Valley Farmers’ own-brand cheddar which is hand-turned by the oldest surviving cheddar makers in the world using west country milk; Westaways sausages and an award-winning pickle from Waterhouse Fayre.
Mole Valley Farmers were keen to raise awareness of their food and drink offering after opening fresh food and drink departments in 14 of their stores offering everything from meat and milk to baked goods and beers. Both the Cirencester and Penzance stores have recently undergone major refurbishments and now boast brand new fresh food and drinkPenzancedepartments.storemanager, Tamsin Thomas, said: “Everybody loves it. We have a new food and drink department, packed full of Cornish products and selling local bread, Trink milk, groceries and local gin and ciders.”
To find out more, visit www.moleonline.com
SHARP’S BREWERY RELEASES A LIMITED-EDITION BEER
The team at Sharp’s Brewery in Rock has released its teamcollaborationandinfusedLandlimited-editionlatestbeer,andSeaIPA,withcucumberlimeandcreatedinwiththeatTheMarinerspub, located just down the road in Rock.
The brief from The Mariners team was to create a delicious IPA that would serve as the ideal pairing to The Dogs Pollock, one of the pub’s signature dishes, comprising a crisp pollock hot dog, pickled cucumber, triple mustard, dill, parmesan, and salty skinny fries.
The resulting beer is a 4.7% ABV IPA with the addition of chopped cucumber and lime peel to give it a fresh and zesty flavour. Land and Sea IPA is brewed with Citra, mosaic and magnum hops that give an extra blast of citrus to this refreshing pint. The base of lager and wheat malt provides the perfect combination of flavours to delight and surprise beer fans thisSharp’ssummer.Brewery’s head brewer, Aaron McClure said, “We have had lots of fun making Land and Sea IPA. It has been a really enjoyable project and we loved working with The Mariners’ team again, who came to the brewery to help us brew and got stuck in.
Land and Sea IPA is available in mini casks. To shop, visit www.sharpsbrewery.co.uk
St Austell Brewery, the South West’s leading independent brewery and pub company has acquired the Wellington Hotel in Boscastle, North Cornwall. The Wellington Hotel is a historic coaching inn, dating back to the 16th century. Located in the fishing village of Boscastle, with views overlooking the harbour, the site has 14 bedrooms, three aparthotel suites, a pub, and a restaurant.
Kevin Georgel, chief executive of St Austell Brewery said: “The Wellington is a historic hotel and one of the oldest coaching inns in Cornwall. Located right on the coast, it’s a family-friendly destination with great views, a pub, a restaurant, and overnight accommodation, making it popular with both locals and visitors. It fits perfectly with our current managed estate and the variety of guest experiences we always look to offer.”
He continues, “This is our first acquisition in over two years, so it’s an exciting time for the business and a milestone moment in the strong recovery we’ve continued to make since the pandemic. It also supports our plans to strengthen and grow our pub estate, across Cornwall and the wider South West, in the months and years ahead.”
Jonathan Scott, who has owned the Wellington Hotel for over 10 years, said: “St Austell Brewery is an independent local business with family values and great pubs and hotels, making it the most suitable guardian to take the Wellington into its next chapter. It’s positive news for the future of the site, the team, and the Boscastle community.”
Other iconic sites to have joined St Austell Brewery’s managed estate in recent years include the Royal Castle Hotel in Dartmouth and the Rock Point Inn in Lyme Regis.
To find out more, visit https://staustellbrewery.co.uk
FowlerMattofcourtesyImageYour wedding day is one of the most important days of your life and it has to be a very special day and completely memorable. Our chauffeur driven car hire service will ensure that it is. We will work with you to plan every last detail, as we only do one wedding a day per car there will be no pressure on time from us
Based on the Devon Somerset border we are ideally located to serve the whole of the South West including North Cornwall. NOT CONFIRMED
Whether it’s creating the perfect look for your bridal makeup helping you plan wedding the last detail, our aim is to truly make it your beautiful accredited make up artiste and planning team covers Cornwall, Devon and beyond. We all love what we do and it really does show! how we can help you too, 07412 454549
Helena Giles is the owner of Your Beautiful Day UK, offering bridal make-up services and wedding planning across the South West. The packages offered are make-up for the bride, bridesmaids and also mothers-of-the-bride and groom plus special occasion make-up and trials. Areas covered are Penzance, St Ives, Camborne, Redruth, Newquay, Truro, St Austell, Bodmin, Launceston, Saltash, Liskeard, Plymouth, Ivybridge, Tavistock and Kingsbridge (plus other locations in the UK). The team will travel to the hotel, wedding venue or a home where everybody is getting ready on the morning of the wedding to recreate the looks decided upon at the make-up trial. Helena tells us, “Wonderful weddings start here, where it’s all about you. We listen, take your ideas and turn them into reality, making unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.”
Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding has teamed up with Your Beautiful Day UK to offer a range of discounts for wedding make-up bookings for dates in 2023 and 2024, from Sunday to Friday, when a booking fee is paid and a contract is completed by 15 December 2022. These include: ❤ Bride only - 5% off ❤ Bride plus up to four people - 10% off ❤ Bride plus more than five people - 15% off To take advantage of this offer, call 07412 454 549 or visit www.yourbeautifuldayuk.co.uk quoting YDCW39. *Travel expenses are quoted separately and will not be part of the offer.
Turn to page 85 to read Helena’s big day make-up tips and tricks.
Cornish-based wedding photographer Hannah Timms loves to shoot contemporary and creative wedding photography, achieving natural shots that show the personalities of each couple. She tells us, “ I like nothing more than capturing people in love and the connection between them.” She adds, “I like to work with couples to tailor-make a wedding photography package that suits their needs. Each wedding album is made to last a Hannah’slifetime.”most popular package is the unlimited full-day coverage, from the bridal preparation through to the late-night dancing. Included in this is a complimentary engagement shoot with ten digital downloads of the couple’s choice. All of the high-resolution printable photographs are supplied on a wooden engraved USB presented in a wooden box with a selection of professional prints. A custom-designed wedding highlights photo book is also included, with the option to upgrade, plus an online personal gallery for sharing, downloading and ordering prints.
Award-winning Danish brand Sif Jakobs Jewellery is renowned for creating modern, luxurious designs with an affordable price tag. The jewellery is made of rhodium, 18k rose gold or yellow gold plated 925 sterling silver, featuring high-quality zirconia stones that create a sophisticated and dramatic expression often featured in Sif Jakobs’ collections.
County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Sif Jakobs Jewellery to give readers the chance to win this necklace and earring set worth £158 from the coveted Belluno collection. Made with 925 sterling silver and the highest quality cubic zirconia, all jewellery is handcrafted and carefully inspected to ensure perfection.
Visit https://sifjakobs.com
Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding has teamed up with Hannah to offer readers £100 off a full-day wedding package. To take advantage of this offer, call 07730 582 111 or visit www.hannahtimmphotography.co.uk quoting YDCW39.
To read Hannah’s advice for what to expect at a pre-wedding photo session, turn to page 63.
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER ONLINE AT WWW.YOURDEVONCORNWALL.WEDDING Closing date 30th November, 2022, unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions apply.
Devon’s Bovey Castle introduces the new 40 Winks Stay, created in association with Pride of Britain Hotels to celebrate its 40th anniversary. The sleep special encourages guests to connect with the outdoors at the spectacular heritage house, surrounded by 275 acres of rolling countryside in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. The two-night break includes Bovey Castle’s signature full afternoon tea by the lake and nature-focused itineraries recommending wild swimming, forest bathing in the tranquillity of ancient woodland, or soaking up the stunning view from one of the Tors. At the end of the day, guests can relax with an inner calm aromatherapy full-body massage in the Elan Spa before retiring to their luxurious bedroom.
The nature itineraries include: Wild Swimming – in a magical local location:
• Sharrah Pool, located on the River Dart at New Bridge near Holne
• Mel Pool, situated just up the river from Sharrah Pool
• East Dart River waterfall, to get there follow the East River Dart from Postbridge
• Fingle Bridge, located close to Bovey Castle and a nearby pub
• Salmon Leaps, near Castle Drogo
• Double Waters, located close to Tavistock where the River Walkham meets the River Tavy and merges into a single river
Forest Bathing – a chance to unwind and tune in to nature. Perfect places to immerse are:
• Easdon Down woodland, just a short walk from the hotel
• Bellever Forest, a chance to see some of the native Dartmoor ponies
• Fernworthy Forest, this woodland surrounds the reservoir
• Whistman’s Wood where stunted oak trees are covered in wispy lichen
Survey the land from the top of a Tor:
• Easdon Tor, walkable from the hotel and worth the climb for beautiful uninterrupted views
• Haytor Tor, the most famous Tor on Dartmoor where you can see the sea on a clear day. After the climb, head to Ullacombe Farm shop for some local delights
• Hound Tor, the inspiration for the Hound of the Baskervilles, is situated around a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Rock climbing is possible for the more adventurous guests
• Bellever Tor has a trig point on top so this climb offers spectacular views like no other
Book it: Bovey Castle offers a two-night stay with the 40 Winks package from £467 per room, per night, based on two adults sharing a Classic Room on a bed and breakfast basis. The package offers nature itineraries, one 55-minute full-body inner calm aromatherapy massage per person, one full afternoon tea and pulse point oil and pillow mist products. The package is available for a minimum two-night stay and is valid from 1st September until 30th November 2022.
Contact: 01647 445 000, www.boveycastle.com/40-winks-package
The Guildhall is a historical building tucked away on the cobbled streets of The Ramparts area of Totnes. Distinctive pillars support the loggia which overlooks St Mary’s church whilst Totnes Castle can be seen nearby.
Steeped in more than 1000 years of history, the Guildhall was originally part of the medieval priory, but more recently it has been used as the town gaol as well as a courtroom (up to 1974) and town Guildhall.
Ceremonies take place for up to 70 guests in the Main Chamber, the Council Chamber or the Mayor’s Parlour. All of the original features of the
old courtroom are on display, as well as a board with the names of all the mayors in Totnes dating back to 1359.
Ceremony licence? Yes
Contact: 01803 862 147, www.totnestowncouncil.gov.uk
♥ We love... that while the photographs are being taken, guests can explore this unique building.
This boutique regency hotel marries a modern interior with a hint of historic Victorian style and commands stunning views of Meadfoot beach, sitting in six acres of beautifully landscaped gardens stretching down to theCeremoniessea.
take place on the popular outdoor wedding terrace for up to 70 guests seated that enjoy panoramic views of the bay. There’s also the Crescent Lounge which is a more intimate ceremony spot seating up to 50 loved ones.
The grand Crescent Suite is where receptions are held and a wedding breakfast here can seat up to 120 people. It’s a large spacious room with
air conditioning, a private entrance and a bar. It has a high ceiling and large Victorian-style windows revealing bayside vistas. On-site, there’s a tennis court, outdoor pool and a three-tier terrace bar and kitchen for guests to enjoy.
Ceremony licence? Yes
Contact: 01803 213 311, www.osborne-torquay.co.uk
♥ We love... that couples who book their wedding at the venue receive a one-night complimentary stay and free menu tasting.
This grand Victorian hotel is a landmark building in Plymouth marrying traditional Art Deco details with modern elements. The city centre location offers a variety of photographic backdrops close by, from Plymouth Hoe and Royal William Yard to Devonport Park.
Inside, the glamorous vintage décor and romantic, classic style make it the perfect setting for a timeless wedding. Ceremonies usually take place in the Green Room for up to 50 guests but the Athena Room for up to 150 loved ones and the Executive Room holding up to 100 people are other stylishReceptionsoptions.can take place in the Athena Room and the Green Room
but also in the Ballroom for up to 250 loved ones with its glittering chandeliers, own bar and dancefloor.
Ceremony licence? Yes
Contact: 01752 276 798, www.newcontinental.co.uk
♥ We love... the complimentary Club Continental gym membership available to the couple when they book the Continental or Deluxe Package, to begin one year before the wedding date, plus a complimentary tasting is included in the Deluxe Package.
This Grade II listed Georgian manor house has been imaginatively restored into a luxurious five-star country house hotel for the 21st century. Situated in the heart of Devon on the foreshore of the tranquil Exe Estuary, the hotel is set within 28 acres and has 21 individually designed bedrooms and suites. There are six woodland setting shepherd huts, perfect for hosting families and the fine dining restaurant has a special menu for children. Whilst parents enjoy the fruits of the now established vineyard (featuring 18,000 vines that produced their first harvest in 2020) children can discover the hotel’s newly created tennis court or rejoice at the heated swimming pool due to launch in summer 2022.
May 2022 marked the unveiling of Lympstone Manor’s first wine from the hotel’s vineyard - a Triassic Pinot Noir. Inspired by the unique soil of
the Jurassic coast (dating back over 240 million years) the exquisite wine tells a tale of 2020’s rare and fruitful harvest. Working with Lyme Bay Winery, Lympstone Manor possesses the only vineyard on the River Exe and denotes flavours of blackberries, cherries and smoky chocolate. Chef and MBE Michael Caine worked tirelessly to produce the Triassic Pinot Noir which is exclusively available to purchase from the hotel. It’s the perfect choice after a Michelin-starred lunch to celebrate a wedding. Take time together by the hotel firepits or enjoy a family barbecue. Lympstone Manor works with a local water sports company that can organise everything from wakeboarding to paddle boarding and windsurfing - a hotel nanny is also on hand if required.
Contact: 01395 202 040, https://lympstonemanor.co.uk
UPTON BARN &WALLED GARDEN, CULLOMPTON, DEVON
This award-winning, exclusive-use wedding venue offers an indoor and outdoor ceremony space in the beautiful Walled Garden under the Oak Arbour, and in the Cider Barn for year-round celebrations. New for 2022 has been the addition of The Paddock providing the bridal party with a spa-worthy space to get ready in, overlooking the rolling hills and patchwork fields of the Devonshire countryside through the vast floor-to-ceiling windows. The carefully considered interior design details and colour schemes have created ultra-luxe spaces and suppliers are equipped with a hair-washing basin and hair and make-up stations. There are also showers, fluffy towels, premium toiletries and plenty of little luxuries creating a home-from-home feel. This additional space is available to hire from 7 am until the ceremony begins when the wedding coordinator will accompany everyone down to the main venue for the wedding entrance.
The Stalls are located just behind The Paddock and offer guests somewhere seriously stylish to stay on the night of the wedding in new
accommodation pods set within a woodland glade. These rustic retreats with Hygge-inspired décor have been designed in a chic minimalist Scandi-style. The Stalls can host up to eight people (two per pod) and are automatically booked for the night of the wedding to retain exclusivity.
The venue marries the rustic charm of a Devon farm with a modern finish. Included in the wedding packages are the hire of trestle tables and chairs, an oak barrel to display the cake, all glassware, a wood-burning stove and logs, a firepit plus outdoor tables, chairs and parasols.
The venue’s hand-picked collection of local caterers includes Pickle Shack and Mulberry Catering Co, both family-run businesses using independent suppliers and seasonal produce. Both work hard to ensure minimal food wastage.
Ceremony licence? Yes
Contact: 01884 38302, www.uptonbarn.com
♥ We love… that the venue incorporates as many eco-friendly elements as possible, from biomass heating and hot water to a borehole used for water supply.
The Stack is a former engine house-turned-intimate-wedding venue located in a dreamy setting in the heart of Poldark country that enjoys luxe interiors, historic architecture and glamour.
It can accommodate up to 40-day guests with six people staying overnight. There’s one king-size bedroom and one double bedroom plus one super king-size zip-and-link bedroom. Features include a sunken hot tub, cinema room and an al fresco kitchen equipped with a pizza oven.
Children are welcome along with two well-behaved dogs. Each pet is
charged at £60 per week or part thereof. The rental is inclusive of linen, towels and those all-important little luxuries.
Ceremony licence? Yes
Contact: 01637 881 www.weddingsatthestack.uniquehomestays.com183,
♥ We love… the magical woodland glade and extensive gardens surrounding the property.
This eco-friendly wedding and events barn is a two-storey timber frame barn offering exclusive use for weddings. It’s fitted with a stage for music and dancing and provides a PA system for DJs to use. Upstairs there’s the opportunity for a chill-out lounge equipped with atmospheric lighting, low tables, rugs and cushions and the experienced team can provide venue dressing and wedding décor making it the perfect pick for couples wanting a blank canvas to host a DIY-style day. For weddings, they have partnered with Gemma Halliwell from West Country Wedding Planners (www.westcountryweddingplanner.co.uk).ThevenueislocatedonGoffinLand,a96-acre hidden valley in Pinhoe, close to Exeter that boasts beautiful countryside views. Located
down the hill is a specially created amphitheatre available for ceremonial use holding up to 100 guests. Catering is provided by their catering partners who can provide anything from a wood-fired hog roast to a vegetarian banquet using fresh local organic ingredients wherever possible. Camping is available for wedding guests by arrangement with wood-fuelled showers available in a shepherd’s wagon.
Ceremony licence? No (need to book a celebrant)
Contact: www.facebook.com/GoffinLandWeddingswww.instagram.com/graysbarnweddings
♥ We love… that Goffin Land is a regenerative farm and Biophilia Project working for social and ecological change.
This enchanting venue is set in 30 acres of pasture that’s gradually being transformed into woodland glades and wildflower meadows. The spacious modern farmhouse accommodates the main wedding party while other guests can stay in the Lotus Belle glamping tents and cute shepherd’s huts with all accommodation included in the venue hire.
From the orchard, there’s a bridge over the brook that leads to the sandstone terrace located in front of the wooden Old Dairy party barn nestled in the heart of the site. This is a beautifully renovated old milking parlour boasting a rustic neutral colour palette for couples to decorate as they wish and south-facing views of the Devonshire countryside across the length of one wall. The handmade wooden trestle tables can seat up to 80 loved ones on benches or chairs and at dusk, the atmospheric lighting adds a romantic touch.
Ceremonies take place outside in The Willow ‘cathedral’ - a specially planted area that features three outdoor ‘chapels’ at the end of the walkway aisle for up to 80 guests. There’s also a stretch tent in the ‘posh
paddock’ for outdoor ceremonies (if the weather is unpredictable) or a drinks reception, plus there’s a firepit for use when the sun goes down.
The Silver Birch ‘church’ is an avenue of silver birch trees providing shade for al fresco ceremonies of up to 60 guests with a secluded, romantic feel and this space also lends itself to an outdoor picnic as an alternative to the wedding breakfast.
Receptions take place in The Old Dairy barn which is the main reception area for up to 80 people. The farmhouse Mediterranean courtyard can be used for pre-wedding dinners and a delicious morning-after brunch.
Ceremony licence? Yes
Contact: 07740 978 408, www.higherholcombe.co.uk
♥ We love… the quirky, self-contained Hobbit House honeymoon suite nestled deep in the heart of the grounds. Guests can enjoy glamping in the Lotus Belle tents and shepherd’s huts. There’s also room for up to 10 people to stay inside the farmhouse.
Blackwater Farm, the home of Bridle & Groom Weddings is a new rustic-inspired wedding venue that’s situated on a nine-acre working farm with chickens, donkeys and the magnificent shire. These animals can appear in photographs with the happy couple or even greet guests around the firepit!
It’s open between March 15th and October 31st each year and accessed via the Well field which is the venue’s glamping site where couples can spend their first night together in a large bell tent as part of the wedding package. Their guests can also stay over in the four smaller bell tents available with the opportunity to share a blackwater breakfast the following morning for £10 per person. Additional guests wanting to camp can do so in their own tents.
Ceremonies take place in the Garden Wedding Room with a raised stage for up to 60 guests (including the registrar and the couple). For those wanting a church wedding close by, the Garden Wedding Room can be transformed into a comfortable retreat where guests can relax and mingle with self-service tea, coffee and sweet treats available.
Couples are now able to marry on the woodland lawn under the
wooden arbour next to the duck pond surrounded by up to 60 guests. A short walk along a farm track leads to the large open-air, all-weather marquee which seats up to 150 loved ones providing another ceremony option plus space for the wedding breakfast and reception. The Cornish Farm Fayre menu is offered as the wedding breakfast which can be upgraded to include a Blackwater Hog Roast using the farm-reared pork. Hidden at the heart of this magical venue, secluded behind trees and hedges, is a fountain, woodland lawn, an Eq-wine horsebox bar and a prosecco wall perfect for arrival drinks (children’s drinks are complimentary). The booking office adjacent to the lawn can be used as a sweetshop or ice-cream bar during the reception and gravel walkways mean there’s access for disabled guests.
Ceremony licence? Yes
Contact: 07932 976 167, www.blackwaterfarmcornwall.co.uk
♥ We love… that the team are very creative and can make special props at the request of the couple if they don’t already have the items on-site which are all part of the personal service offered. A personal wedding planner is also available for each couple.
This stylish new purpose-built wedding venue with its statement glass entrance foyer is located on a 5th generation working farm overlooking rolling hills and sprawling lakes. Featuring two outdoor terraces where lawn games can be enjoyed, the venue offers an outdoor ceremony area under a pagoda on the lower terrace with views of the lakes. Alternatively, the spacious 300 square foot indoor barn can hold a large party of up to 300 guests for the ceremony and up to 400 people for the reception, and an Insta-worthy feature is a fully stocked, rustic-inspired
bar that’s handmade from ash trees that have fallen on the farm and offers Pimms on tap! Intimate weddings also work well here because of the room divider and other amenities include luxury bathrooms and a commercial kitchen.
Ceremony licence? Yes
Contact: 01872 229 842, https://pengellyweddings.com
♥ We love… the hand-crafted, eco-friendly honeymoon cabin available for two nights for the happy couple that enjoys waterside views.
Charlotte and Olly’s theatrical celebration enjoyed a vibrant purple and gold theme Images courtesy of Maddielili Photography TAKE
Charlotte and Olly met whilst Charlotte was running a board game event at the bookshop where she worked and their friendship was cemented that day over a game of Munchkin. “It’s fair to say that board games are the thing that brought us together and have been a pivotal part of our relationship,” Charlotte tells us. “Since meeting, we have attended many a game convention together and always remained a united frontexcept when competing across the table!”
Olly proposed on Valentine’s Day in 2021 in the middle of the second lockdown. “We had discussed the idea of getting married and knew it was something we both wanted to do,” he tells us. “I found a beautiful engagement ring with an alexandrite stone that changed colour in the light and successfully managed to have it delivered to our flat and hide it without Charlotte knowing, despite her being furloughed and me working from home full time. On the night itself, we made a romantic dinner using a kit from one of our favourite local restaurants. I was incredibly nervous and I’m pretty sure Charlotte knew something was up, so before serving dessert I got down on one knee and popped the question. Thankfully she said yes, and the rest, as they say is history.”
Sterts Theatre, nestled away in the hills of Bodmin moor, is a volunteer-run amphitheatre that strives to be the centre of the arts for the local community. Both Charlotte and Olly love the unique space and the opportunities it provides for everyone to access the theatre. “It’s a place where new talent is grown and nurtured,” Olly tells us. “My family has been part of the Sterts world for nearly 20 years working in all aspects of theatrical production. My parents are stalwarts of the stage, my mum as stage manager and my dad as an actor and director and both as tenors in the Sterts Singers Choir so we couldn’t think of a better backdrop to bring all of our loved ones together for our big day. Even though they don’t normally host weddings, they made a special exception for us and we were the first couple who married there. Considering the location, we knew we had to play up the theatrical elements of our wedding so Charlotte made her bridal entrance on the balcony!”
The Sterts Singers Choir performed a selection of love songs before the ceremony including a custom arrangement of the wedding march. “They even gifted us a surprise performance of Ed Sheeran’s Perfect, one of our favourite songs,” Charlotte says.
The couple decided on a relaxed, informal buffet with no set table plan. “All of the tables were draped in purple linen topped with lilac organza table runners that were scattered with purple dice,” they tell us. “Our centrepieces were made using rose gold wire frame candle holders (which resembled the dice motif) and we made custom potion bottles filled with homemade sloe gin or chocolate candies as favours which represented our love for the Dungeons & Dragons roleplaying game,” says Charlotte. They both wanted bright and colourful flowers and their florist did not disappoint. “They made sunflowers the centre of all of our floral displays with purple and white accents,” Charlotte explains.
The showstopping three-tier wedding cake featured a giant gold dragon topper which represented the Dungeons & Dragons adventurers, beautifully painted by a close friend of the couple. “A hoard of dice cascaded down the side of the cake that tied in well with our theme,” Charlotte says.
Charlotte and Olly built some large theatrical room dividers to dress the stage area. “As the day progressed, the frames were moved around the stage to convert it from an intimate space for the ceremony into a large dancefloor for the evening revelries,” they tell us. “The frames were backed with purple and lilac fabric and decorated with trailing ivy, artificial lilac roses and polaroid
photos of us throughout our time together.”
Guests tucked into a prosecco and scone reception. “We fall either side of the great scone debate and decided to let our guests vote on the best scone orientation – jam and cream or cream and jam,” Charlotte explains. “The result was incredibly close but cream and jam won overall by a single vote, much to my delight!”
A hog roast was served as the wedding breakfast with vegetarian options of Brazilian beans and pulled jackfruit which is two of the couple’s favourite vegetarian dishes. “Olly’s dad could be seen throughout the meal wheeling his mobile wine cart around offering guests a personalised selection of table wine and netting himself the title of “Wheelbarrow Sommelier,” Charlotte tells us. “During the evening, we provided a tower of local cheeses from Country Cheeses in Tavistock accompanied by bread and port.”
Following a disastrous attempt at buying a secondhand dress online that was ultimately never going to fit, Charlotte found a dress that she liked at the Cambridge Bridal Studio. “It had a beautiful lace bodice with a diamond-shaped cut-out at the back and was the right length for the Ceilidh dancing that I planned on enjoying throughout the evening!” she tells us. “I accessorised it with a diamanté belt, a pair of lilac dice earrings and some Irregular Choice bridal shoes.”
Olly wore a charcoal grey frock coat and trousers teamed with a light purple paisley waistcoat and a purple cravat. “Our groomsmen wore matching colours and waistcoats but their suits had lounge jackets instead of the frock coat teamed with purple ties,” Olly says.
The bridesmaids wore silk, lilac infinity dresses in individual styles suited to them. “They accessorised their dresses with diamanté brooches and purple stone necklaces that I had gifted to them as a thank you,” says Charlotte.
During the day, the couple provided a selection of outdoor board games for everyone to enjoy including classics of Cornhole, Dominoes and Jenga. Later on, they performed a choreographed ballroom dance routine to McFly’s All About You despite neither of them having danced before and only having a three-hour course in ballroom dancing from one of Charlotte’s friends to learn. “It went surprisingly well and we both enjoyed it a lot,” Charlotte tells us.
The couple used the theatre stage to host a Ceilidh band in the evening who got everyone up for a couple of hours of energetic folk dancing. “Even though we all got bits of the dancing wrong, everyone had a fantastic time!”
They also hired a silent disco to entertain their guests due to local rules prohibiting amplified music after 10 pm. “We had both experienced these at music festivals and knew our guests would love it,” Charlotte says. “Everyone wore a set of headphones that could switch between three different channels that the DJs were running. Even guests who didn’t want to dance were entertained by a neon crown of dancers each singing their heart out to their individual channel choice!”
“When a friend offered us a full-size replica of Andúril (Aragorn’s sword from the Lord of the Rings movie) how could we say no? Rather than cutting the cake, we beheaded the dragon using the four-and-a-half-foot sword. Seeing Charlotte run round the stage wielding the sword in victory will be a lasting memory!” — Olly
THE DREAM TEAM
Photographer, Maddielili Photography, 07974 701 716, https://maddielili.co.uk
| Venue, Sterts, 01579 362 382, www.sterts.co.uk
Dress, Cambridge Bridal Studio, 01223 430 043, www.cambridgebridalstudio.co.uk | Hair, Red, 01579 346 655, https://redhairliskeard.co.uk/weddings | Make-up, Sandra Smolarek Make-up, Beauty, Lashes, 07463 621 415, https://sandrabeauty.co.uk Suits, The Wedding Company Bridal Boutique, 01752 347 775, https://the-wedding-company.co.uk | Cake, Porsham Cakes, 01752 776 730, https://porsham.co.uk
| Flowers, Full Blooms, 01579 346 444, www.fullblooms.co.uk | Evening band, Ceilidh Tree, 07946 616 380, https://ceilidhtree.co.uk
| Catering, Cornish Scone Company, www.cornishsconecompany.co.uk
| Silent disco, Somerset Silent Disco, 07970 521 201, www.somersetsilentdisco.co.uk
| Catering, Hearn’s Dartmoor Meat Box Co, 07876 666 693, www.dartmoormeatbox.co.uk | Cheese, Country Cheeses, 01822 615 035, www.countrycheeses.co.uk
“Thanks to Jess, our wedding photographer, for staying longer than agreed to beautifully capture the evening entertainment and for providing a 'trash the dress shoot' that we will both remember for a long time to come.” — Charlotte and Olly
Jessica and Henry met when they were 16 years of age and finally got together when they were 23. “Henry proposed on Christmas Day in 2019 at the top of a hill in the village where I grew up, it was so romantic,” Jessica tells us. “We celebrated with plenty of champagne and Christmas cake!”
The couple chose Devon-based wedding venue Upton Barn
Jessica and Henry Powell married on 4th June 2022 at Upton Barn & Walled Garden in Cullompton, Devon.
& Walled Garden in Cullompton as the setting for their special day. “Henry and I chose a powder blue, light pink and gold colour theme,” Jessica says. “ I kept choosing things that I liked and the colours seemed to work well together.”
Here, Jessica tells us more about their stunning summer wedding.
Jessica and Henry’s special day at Upton Barn & Walled Garden followed a stylish pale blue, light pink and gold colour theme
Images courtesy of Jennifer Jane Photography
We visited a few venues around Devon. Upton Barn & Walled Garden was thefirst one that we visited and both fell in love with, none of the others compared!
Not only did Upton Barn & Walled Garden have a contemporary barn feel that we wanted, but the ceremony area was also beautiful inside and out! The walled garden was like a fairytale – it was my dream setting to get married in.
I started getting ready at 5 am with my seven bridesmaids in the new Paddock area at the venue. Our make-up and hair artists loved the location with all of its amenities.
My younger brother Harrison, who is 18, walked me downthe aisle which was so special because Henry and Harrisonare close.
I chose loose beachy waves for my hairstyle with a few bits pinnedback to create a half-up, half-down look. My handmade Cathedral-length veil featured ocean pearls which were so elegant. For the eveningreception, I swapped my veil for a handmade white flower crown. Iloved it so much that I wore it every day on our honeymoon and at 2am going to the airport!
Top tip: “Make sure that you take it all in, it’s the most incredible day but it goes by fast so make sure that you both enjoy every second.” - Jessica and Henry
“The meal was delicious! Our caterers Pickle Shack did us proud. Our guests were well fed with chicken thighs, filo-wrapped feta parcels, pollock and roasted potatoes and vegetables with a mouthwatering cheesecake that many of our guests loved!” - Jessica
I chose a natural glam look for my bridal makeup. My make-up artist chose a light-coloured foundation and plenty of glow and bronzer! I have a lipstick shade called Pillow Talk from Charlotte Tilbury and a lip liner from Mac called Stripdown. I loved these so much that I bought them for my everyday use.
I chose a pale pink pair of sandals to match mydress which had a soft pink layer underneath.
I wore a pair of pearl earrings to match those beaded on to my
I travelled around and tried on plenty of dresses. When I visited theChampagne & Charlotte Bridal Boutique in Exeter and tried on the first dress,I knew it was the one!
When I saw Henry crying as I met him at the end of the aisle, I felt very emotional because I hadn’t seen him cry before.
The day was perfect, we couldn’t have had a more perfect wedding, it was like a fairytale.Henryhad
got ready at Goodiford Mill Lakes with his groomsmen and his mum and dad. Both the groomsmen and our bridesmaids bought tequila shots for Henry and I before we walked down the aisle!
“Jennifer’s bright signature style and her ability to capture romantic candid moments are what caught our attention. We knew that we wanted a photographer that would capture the special moments of our wedding and also be a friend to us on the day, and after meeting her we knew she was the photographer for us!” - Jessica
Our ceremony room was decorated with plenty of flowers. We had two floralpillars placed at the front of the room along with a statement table arrangement.
Our welcome sign was a large surfboard because we’re both keen surfers. It featured our names on and it also said ‘Welcome to Upton Barn’ on it.
The backdrop for our wedding breakfast looked spectacular! We had copper bars displayed on the tables decorated with flowers and gold candlesticks.
Our cake and sweet treats went down a storm! Henry and I loved having some time together during our couple portraits to catchup and discuss how our mornings had been, and appreciate the fact that wewere married.
We had family members travel to our wedding from around the world so it was special to have everybody in one room for the first time. The dream team
The evening was filled with great tunes fromthe band called Charge. They played so manygreat songs, I don’t think there was one person who sat down during their performance!
Venue, Upton Barn & Walled Garden, 01884 38302, www.uptonbarn.com | Photographer, Jennifer Jane Photography, 07881 941 668, www.jenniferjanephotography.co.uk | Wedding dress, Champagne & Charlotte Bridal Boutique, 01237 237 210, www.champagneandcharlotte.co.uk | Veil, Posie Treasures, www.instagram.com/posietreasures | Make-up, Kayleigh B Makeup Artist, www.instagram.com/kayleigh.b.makeup | Hair, The Wild Pins, ww.thewildpins.co.uk | Flowers, Charlotte Hogg, 07966 152 255, www.charlottehogg.co.uk
| Jewellery, Lily and Roo, https://lilyandroo.com | Band, Charge, www.instagram.com/chargetheband | Photobooth, South West Photo Booths, 01548 705 507, https://southwestphotobooths.co.uk | Food, Pickle Shack, 01395 488 132, www.pickleshack.co.uk
“During the evening, we had a photo booth that provided plenty of fun. We also asked some six and seven-year-olds the question ‘What does love mean?’ Some of their answers were incredible so we framed them and put them around the venue!” Jessica and Henry
We loved our personalised leaf chair backs!
Rosie and Josh’s special day enjoyed a mint green and pretty-in-pink colour theme Images courtesy of Louise Richey Photography
Rosie and Joshua (Josh) Erby, both 28, married on 9th April 2022 at St. Eustachius' Church, Tavistock, Devon followed by a reception at Two Bridges Hotel in Dartmoor.
Rosie and Josh met when they were 18 years old.
“Josh invited me to his 18th birthday barbecue after having been out once together as part of the same friendship group,” Rosie tells us. “We shared a tent and he was the perfect gentleman and a genuine, kind person.”
The couple became engaged in Paris on the 5th of December 2018. “We were standing on the opposite side of The Eiffel Tower overlooking the bridge and we were taking a selfie in the rain,” Rosie says. “Josh pulled out a ring box from his pocket and handed it to me, asking whether I’d be his wife. He wouldn’t get down on one knee because of the bad weather!”
Rosie and Josh chose to get married in Tavistock in Devon. “My mum is originally from Tavistock and I grew up visiting my late granddad on holidays there,” Rosie explains. “We attended a couple of Christmas services at St. Eustachius’ Church, Tavistock and I’ve dreamt of getting married there ever
Thesince.”TwoBridges hotel was the couple’s first choice of reception venue because it has stunning views stretching across Dartmoor. “I had never visited the hotel before but had always driven past it on my holidays so getting married there was a dream,” Rosie says. “Tom, a member of the team, gave us fantastic service, constantly checking if everyone, including our guests, were OK. He explained to us how to cut the cake, delivered our gifts to our room at the end of the night and even took buffet food to my friends and family in their rooms when they were too tired to stay late at the reception!”
Rosie arrived at the wedding in a 1930 Franklin 147 Salon Special car with her dad. “Travelling across Dartmoor to the church with my dad was a memory I’ll never forget,” Rosie explains. “When we arrived, walking down the aisle and seeing Josh, and us both singing rather badly (not on purpose!) were other memorable moments for me. We were both so happy because we had waited so long for this day to Thearrive.”couple sat at a top table with Josh’s best man and Rosie’s parents. “There were four other round tables for our guests,” Rosie says. “We chose table numbers and I handmade some acrylic signs using pink and mint green paint with a transfer sticker showing each number. My brother’s girlfriend made our black place names decorated with a silver font and I added pearl stickers for the ladies’ ones. I also made small bags of fudge from the Devon Fudge Company that our guests arriving from Kent, Wales and Bournemouth loved because they hadn’t visited Devon before.”
The couple hired pink faux blossom trees as their table centrepieces and selected pink roses for their fresh flower arrangements and bouquets. “The first flowers that Josh bought for me were pink roses and the choice was also inspired by my name!” Rosie tells us. “We also had gypsophila because I think it looks springlike and pretty.”
Rosie and Josh chose a two-tiered drip cake decorated with fresh roses on top and pink drip icing. “One layer was a Victoria sponge which is Josh’s favourite and the other was a chocolate cake which is my favourite cake,” Rosie says. They also had a sweetie table that went down a treat with their guests!
The talented team at The Two Bridges provided mouthwatering catering. “We had vegetable velouté or salmon to start followed by roast pork or beef as the main course and a chocolate trio or seasonal fruit trifle as dessert,” Rosie tells us.
Rosie chose a pretty ivory A-line wedding dress. “I loved the sweetheart necklace and lace detail on the back,” she tells us. “I also wore a tiara purchased from Disneyland Paris, a pearl necklace that Josh gifted to me on the day from Tiffany & Co and my Pandora bracelet.”
Josh wore a navy check three-piece suit with brown shoes while his groomsmen wore the same suits in a slightly darker shade. “Our beautiful bridesmaids wore long lace dresses in sage green and my maid-of-honour wore a mint green gown,” Rosie says.
The couple hired a DJ to play during the evening reception. “My friend was supposed to sing three songs including our first dance but she contracted Covid before our special day,” Rosie tells us. “Everybody got up and danced to our first dance which was to Can’t Take My Eyes Off You by The Overtones.”
“Our photographer, Louise, was amazing. If she hadn’t organised us all, we wouldn’t have made it to the church on time! Our couple portraits on Dartmoor looked fantastic!” — Rosie and Josh
Over the years we have accumulated many bespoke items often commissioned especially for our wedding planning clients who were unable to find their desired wedding décor elements. We have a range of bespoke napkins, runners, luxury full length round and top table cloths in a variety of beautiful colours for hire.
We cover Devon, Dorset, Cornwall, and Somerset however our items are also available for DIY hire. us 01392
So you have started planning your wedding and have already been captivated by the alluring images on Pinterest, in bridal magazines, wedding blogs and Instagram! But where to start?
Dance to the beat of your own drum in a fashionable, celebrity-inspired wedding dress teamed with a bright fuchsia pink and romantic red theme Images courtesy of Rosie Blake
With sweeping views of the coastline as well as stunning gardens Tapeley Park is one of the only venues in North Devon to have both, the perfect setting for your wedding.
Bringing a sense of the exotic to every wedding photo, Tapeley’s Italian Terrace gardens are a beautiful space for guests to socialise and reflect between the excitement of the matrimonial service and the revelry of the reception.
From our Rustic Barn full of character to a marquee on the front lawn overlooking the sea, Tapeley Park is the ideal setting for your wedding. Our experienced wedding planner/master of ceremonies will also be there to make sure everything goes to plan.
All you and your guests have to do is have a great time and make happy memories. Your event will be remembered long after the popping of champagne corks.
At Tapeley you can have your wedding your way.
I have been involved in the beauty, make-up and modelling industry since secondary school. It's not only a job to me but a passion and hobby which makes the experience as rewarding for me as it does for the client.
I offer bespoke wedding packages including eyelash and eyebrow treatments, wedding make-up and spray tans to get you wedding ready. I only use the best high-end products from my favourite make-up brand Charlotte Tilbury which creates the perfect timeless bridal look. You will feel enriched with deluxe skincare products applied before the make-up to prepare the skin before the magic happens.
At Lash n Glow I provide the most luxurious and calming beauty treatments to retain the flawless glow all day and night.
For any enquiries lashnglow@hotmail.com and check out my recent content on @lashngloww
TAPELEY
Hotel Victoria in Newquay provided the coastal setting for this Cornish elopement shoot Images courtesy of Valentina Val Photo
Photographer, Valentina Val Photo, www.valentinavalphoto.com | Venue, Hotel Victoria, 01637 872 255, http://legacy-hotels.co.uk/hotels/hotel-victoria-newquay- | Flower crown and archway, Bird & Bear Blooms, www.facebook.com/birdandbearblooms | Florist, Fauxever Blooms & Bridal, www.facebook.com/fauxeverblooms | Cake, White Peony Cake Co, www.whitepeonycakes.co.uk | Hair stylist, Lily Of The Valley Hair Design, 07714 305 163, www.facebook.com/lilyofthevalley2015 Make-up artist, Lash n Glow, 07503 219 052, www.lashnglow.co.uk | Dress, Lisa Lyons Bridal, 01582 712 995, www.lisalyons.co.uk Signage, Daydreamer Creative Studio, www.facebook.com/daydreamer.creative.studio | Stationery, Abbie Worton, 07833 541 701, www.abbieworton.com | Couple @b_in_lovenow
Natalie and Gary Drake, owners of Ellis Rose Floral Design located in Exeter, Devon tell us, “We love to make bespoke playful designs mixing textures and natural items along with foliage and flowers. Our work is exciting for our couples who can build their own traditions rather than relying on those of the past. We can create natural Christmas-inspired arrangements with a rustic twist incorporating feathers, wooden items, foliage and pieces of fruit that offer a wonderful scent.” The husband and wife duo add, “Wow-factor statement designs that
are creative, showcasing the couple and the artistry behind the flowers is our passion. Crisp, timeless white with hints of blue provides a beautiful combination for winter weddings, offering classic elegance for those who don’t want to follow the red and green traditions. We love a bit of sparkle too, added using painted ferns, pine cones and Christmas decorations.
www.ellisrosefloraldesign.com; www.instagram.com/ ellisrosefloraldesign
For a bespoke wedding planning and floral design service, try Cornwall-based Charlotte Speculo, a luxury florist and floral designer, 07834 992 381, charlottespeculo.co.ukhttps://
Flowers from Bruallen are an award-winning, familyrun Cornish florist who works with locally sourced and imported flower varieties, 01840 212 555, www.bruallen.co.uk
Check out Heart of Flowers located in Okehampton, Devon for stunning seasonal blooms, 01837 659 503, heartofflowers.co.ukhttps://
Don’t miss Simon Nickell Design Wedding & Event Flowers in Cornwall for stunning arrangements and 07776installations,184652, simonnickelldesign.comwww.
For seasonal and fashionable
Fuss Pots based in Devon is a must-visit for quality plants and tree hire for weddings, transforming venues into an oasis of green, 07903 668 045, https://fusspots.co.uk
Sweet Pea Floral Studio in Helston, Cornwall is a multi-award-winning team of flower experts offering wow-factor wedding flowers,
Devon’s finest afternoon teas in the elegant conservatory at Hartnoll Hotel located in Tiverton. Enjoy a delicious selection of freshly baked scones with clotted cream, jam, homemade cakes and finger sandwiches accompanied by a selection of teas, a glass of champagne or even Exmoor gin. Prices start from £9.50 per person for a cream tea and £18.50 per person for an afternoon tea, restaurant/devons-best-afternoon-teawww.hartnollhotel.co.uk/ GOODCELEBRATETIMESWHAT’SNEW?
AnACCOMMODATIONiconicthatchedpubthat had been derelict for several years has undergone a six-figure facelift and will re-open as a stunning place to stay for groups of friends and families. New life has been breathed into the historic The Leaping Trout, formerly known as The Trout Inn, a Grade 11-listed building located in the Exe Valley at Bickleigh, Tiverton, following a year-long renovation project. It’s now available for private hire sleeping up to 30 people, offering an authentic old pub experience in a luxurious setting.
The pub was purchased by business partners Brian Lord and Michael Mourant in 2020. It had been closed for two years and was in a state of disrepair. The pair felt it deserved to be refurbished and brought back to its former glory. They committed to investing £1/2 million, employing local builders with expertise in renovating old buildings, and have created a stunning private house with 12 bedrooms, most with en suites, a large farmhouse kitchen, vintage-style cinema, private bar, dining terrace, gardens, cosy seating areas and an array of extras like vintage pub games and a pool table, perfect for a hen
Theweekend.stunning spaces celebrate natural, eco-friendly local materials that compliment the history of the building. Mr Lord said, “When we bought the pub, we knew there was potential to create something very special for large groups of friends to enjoy. Every inch of this building has been renovated. It’s been a huge project, but very rewarding and we’re delighted with the result.”
The building still retains the cob walls and a reef-thatched roof, old
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casement windows, inglenook fireplaces with bread ovens and chambered cross beams.
Brian said: “It’s an unusual concept, creating private accommodation for large groups in a pub, but it’s certainly unique and we hope that people will come from far and wide to enjoy this incredible and luxurious building.”
Project manager and interior designer Alice Deuchar says, “The rooms are timeless and rustic offering incredible spaces to relax. Upcycling and recycling have been key and we’ve managed to source many wonderful things such as antique bedsteads, a wooden spiral staircase, Chesterfield sofas, chairs, freestanding antique baths, and many other gorgeous items which add to a sense of luxury. We found the cinema seats onlineeverything is vintage and upcycled and it adds to the romance of theTobuilding.book,visit
Relax and unwind in the stunning spa at Northcote Manor nestled in the North Devon countryside and be pampered with a variety of facials, massages, and body and nail treatments, northcotemanor.co.uk/spahttps://
For some pre-wedding pampering, indulge in a spa day at Scarlet Spa, Cornwall. Housed within the Scarlet Hotel and located on the clifftops above Mawgan Porth, this adult-only property is a well-being sanctuary that exudes natural calm, with far-reaching views of the North Atlantic coastline.
Scarlet is home to one of the most renowned Ayurvedic eco spas in the UK featuring a bromine-filtered indoor pool, outdoor natural reed pool, clifftop wooden sauna and restorative steam room.
What’s included:
❤ The ‘Spend Time Together Experience’ for two people
❤ A shared hammam or a rhassoul heat treatment
❤ Access to the Scarlet Spa facilities
❤ A candlelit copper tub immersive relaxation experience
❤ Afternoon tea
To book, visit www.scarlethotel.co.uk/spa/day-spaSTMAWESHOTELANDTHE
Rocks (https://idlerocks.com) and St Mawes Hotel (www.stmaweshotel.com) in Cornwall are offering exclusive-use packages for hen and stag celebrations. Situated in St Mawes, voted the UK’s best seaside town, The Idle Rocks is a boutique property offering 18 bedrooms, including four harbour view rooms in an adjoining cottage, two being dog friendly. Perched on the harbourside, overlooking the Fal Estuary, the hotel is the ideal bolthole for friends, couples, solo travellers and families alike. Sister property St Mawes Hotel offers boutique accommodation, fresh seasonal Cornish cuisine and a warm welcome surrounded by the Roseland Peninsula where guests can explore on a hike.
Dorian Janmaat joined The Idle Rocks and St Mawes Hotel to bring a fresh flair as executive head chef in January 2020 and has taken the hotel’s culinary offering from strength to strength characterised by his passion for cooking and perfection, which has also culminated in the restaurant winning multiple awards. Influenced by Asian flavours, Dorian curates exceptional menus that are a fusion of Cornwall’s best produce whilst embodying his culinary style.
From starters to dessert, Dorian ensures that the ingredients used in his balanced, textured, and elegant dishes are from the most sustainable suppliers. From the fish and shellfish that are delivered fresh every morning and served to the hotel’s guests the same day, to the seasonal vegetables and locally farmed meats. Dorian has continually worked and professionally managed his team behind the restaurant, perfectly demonstrating that his role as the executive head chef doesn’t start and end with just creating a dish but rather, showcasing the ongoing relationship between the chef, the producers, the restaurant team, the customers and land and sea that defines his work. Dorian’s dishes offer a true celebration of Cornwall and an unforgettable culinary journey for every guest that steps through The Idle Rocks’ restaurant doors.
Gather your best girls and head to Beaford Country House, a large holiday home located in Winkleigh, Devon sleeping up to 23 guests. It’s home to a private heated swimming pool and hot tub plus a barbecue hut, beafordcountryhouse.co.ukwww.
Finest Retreats is pleased to announce it’s entering the glamping market with the launch of Canvas & Cabins luxury glamping experiences across the UK. With dozens of properties currently available including a selection of treehouses, lodges and bell tents which perfectly mix a sustainable and eco-friendly approach, each meets the highest standards that Finest Retreats upholds, allowing travellers to truly get back to nature.
“Having established partnerships with select properties offering sustainable getaway options as part of our Finest Retreats collection, given the increased interest in holidaying closer to home and nearer to nature, it seemed natural for us to enter this market,” says founder Richard Bond.
Experience the best of a beach holiday at the Clotted Cream Cabin in Widesgate, Cornwall. Located just four metres from a sandy beach, with all the comforts of a luxury glampsite, this wooden-clad cabin sleeps four travellers in two king-sized beds and is home to a firepit and barbecue, complete with seating for late-night stargazing over toasted marshmallows.
Start the day with farm-fresh eggs from the working farm next door before venturing out to explore cute little Cornish coastal villages, the famous South West Coast Path, Adrenalin Quarry’s giant inflatable water park and zipline, wine tastings, and even alpaca trekking.
There’s no need to worry about leaky tents should the rain fall while staying in the Ash Lotus Belle Tent set on a wooden standing tucked away in a sheltered field on a family-run dairy farm in picturesque North Devon. The tent comfortably sleeps four on proper beds and mattresses (one double, two singles) and has a covered outdoor kitchen area equipped with a gas barbecue, as well as cooking equipment and crockery. An outdoor seating area is also provided.
For an authentic camping experience, there’s a firepit perfect for toasting marshmallows as the sun sets. Fairylights and battery-powered tea lights within the tent provide the perfect tranquil lighting for a romantic experience.
For friends, couples or solo travellers looking for an eco-friendly, off-grid retreat look no further than Yeworthy Eco-Treehouse. Start the day with breakfast on the balcony overlooking the lake before cosying up with a log fire crackling in the corner as night falls. Enjoy basic cooking on a gas-fired camp stove or use the barbeque in the summer months. The surroundings are secluded and private, with only the birds and wild deer who roam the forest as neighbours. To book, visit www.canvasandcabins.co.uk
The Bedford Hotel in the heart of Tavistock offers a Jazz Sunday lunch serving a traditional three-course Sunday roast with a generous helping of live jazz from the band the Desperate Measures. For the next available dates, www.bedford-hotel.co.uk/jazz-visitsunday-lunches
Celebrate your last weekend as a singleton in a luxury ecolodge at five-star resort Gwel an Mor in Cornwall. Many have a private hot tub and the hideaway is home to a heated indoor pool and on-site spa facilities, www.gwelanmor.com
Turn 63 to read about how magicians Lewis Belcher and Jon Martin can surprise guests at a hen party!
Arches is a unique licensed beach wedding venue in the pretty Devon village of Combe Martin. Simply book the registrar and the venue for two hours and enjoy getting married in one of the most unusual wedding locations Devon has to offer.
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Meet the expert: Plymouth-based Lewis Belcher, pictured here, is an award-winning magician covering weddings and events throughout Devon and Cornwall.
Lewis says: Magic is a great way to entertain your hen party guests! I perform mix-and-mingle magic so that everyone can still talk, drink and eat, enjoying the buzz of the event. My charm and whit will keep all sizes of groups and all age ranges entertained, whether they’re a younger sibling or older grandparents! There aren’t many options for entertainment for hen parties that successfully span a vast array of age ranges. My magic will guarantee to provide memories that your hen party guests will never forget!
Lewis Belcher | 01752 936 086 http://lbmagic.uk | www.facebook.com/lbmagicuk
Meet the expert: Jon Martin is a full-time magician and member of The Magic Circle available seven days a week to take part at events including hen parties. He performs both close-up magic and house party shows across the South West.
Jon says: The hen parties I have worked at previously have been close-up magic performed during a meal (either at lunchtime or during the evening) both in a restaurant and at a private residence. My house party show is a mixture of close-up magic and bigger routines to entertain the entire room. The tricks are a mixture of mind reading along with card and coin tricks and I can also create a bespoke routine based on the hobbies and interests of the bride-to-be (or indeed anyone at the party). I’m currently working on a Buffy the Vampire Slayer trick for an upcoming hen party. My magic shows are fun, different and packed full of audience involvement.
Jon Martin | 07443 577 www.facebook.com/jonmartinmagicuk497
Turn to page 59 to learn what's new hen celebrations.
Some of our wedding guests won’t know each other – how can we encourage them to mingle?
Meet the expert: CherryTop Weddings are the only UK provider of wedding favour activity booklets containing games, quizzes and puzzles personalised around the wedding couple. Reimagining what wedding favours can be, the unique activity booklets, priced at just £3.50 each, are the ultimate wedding reception ice breaker.
The company has recently announced a new range of designs to reflect the predicted wedding trends for 2023 incorporating the watercolour floral trend in the new Meadow design, the Art Deco-inspired look in the Eternal design and the simple, minimalist theme echoed in the Infinite design. This change is accompanied by an upgraded website providing couples with a smoother journey through the wedding favour creation process.
Following its launch in 2020, the Cornish company has received high acclaim including Regional Highly Commended in the Wedding Special Touch of the Year Category at the 2022 Wedding Industry Awards, alongside a five-star rating on Trust Pilot, Facebook and Google Reviews.
Alex Ridd, general manager of CherryTop Weddings, said, “I’m delighted that CherryTop Weddings feature as part of many couples’ special day. We love to hear that our booklets are such a unique and memorable component of their wedding; it is often the little touches which
get remembered as they allow couples to express their own identities. We build a great relationship with our customers and are delighted to have released a new range of designs for the future couples of 2023, which will be a bumper year of marriages due to the delays from previous years’ disruptions. We hope that everyone is as excited as we are!”
CherryTop Weddings | www.facebook.com/CherryTopWeddingswww.instagram.com/cherrytopweddingshttps://cherrytopweddings.com
To request a free sample booklet, https://cherrytopweddings.com/pages/sample-wedding-favours-activity-bookletvisit
What are the benefits of having a pre-wedding shoot?
Meet the expert: Hannah Timm is one of the South West’s leading wedding and family portrait photographers based in Liskeard, Cornwall. She tells us, “I see beauty in all sorts of places. I like to think of photography as painting pictures with light.”
Hannah says: The vast majority of my clients say they feel nervous in front of the camera. Honestly, I think most of us rarely feel comfortable when a camera is pointed at us - myself included! After more than 15 years working as a wedding and family photographer, I have learnt some tips and tricks to help people relax. The key to good photographs is trusting your chosen photographer and feeling relaxed enough to be yourself.
I always recommend pre-wedding shoots, especially if a couple is feeling nervous about the photography. Firstly, it provides a great chance for me to hang out with them so that we can all get to know each other and have a trial run before the big day. They get to see how I work and I get to see how they naturally interact with each other which helps a lot.
Most often, we go for a walk and explore somewhere together. This can be a beach at sunset, a walk with the dogs or a special place like where they became engaged. I’m happy to recommend locations that I
love, or discover a new place that is meaningful to them. This provides a relaxed time where we get to try out different things and see what suits everybody best.
I don’t believe in stiff, awkward posing, but I do know the best angles and slight adjustments that will help clients look their best. Most of my couples, despite feeling initially nervous, end up enjoying this session as it’s just a chance to focus on each other and have some fun.
Pre-wedding sessions are some of my favourite jobs because there aren’t the time constraints of a wedding day, and I can get more creative. Some of my favourite shots have come from these sessions as I get to try out new techniques or ideas. It’s great for wedding couples too because they get beautiful images to use on the wedding day or in the invites and they get to see what kind of shots I might take on the wedding day which builds their confidence
All of Hannah’s full-day page
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County Wedding Magazines’ senior editor Melissa Cullen shares her wedding planning journey Images courtesy of www.chrisblackledgephotography.co.uk
My husband (it still feels weird saying that) and I were engaged for 18 months before we finally tied the knot. Planning our wedding during a global pandemic wasn’t something I ever imagined happening, but thankfully, despite the ups and downs, we managed to have our
special day. I know it’s cliché to say, but we really did have the perfect day, and we wouldn’t have changed a thing. Now that I’m finally Mrs Cullen, I thought I’d take the time to share with you some tips that I learnt from planning our big day...
We chose a rustic property that looked gorgeous all year round. Ourwedding coordinator, Eloise, took care of all the details and madesure everything ran seamlessly. We arranged a last minute meetingwith her to run through the plan for the day, which we found was agreat help and meant we knew exactly what to expect. I recommendbooking a venue with a dedicated wedding coordinator or hiring anexternal company, so that you can relax and enjoy yourself withouthaving to worry.
Flowers can transform any venue into a beautiful space, so choosing the perfect florist was really important to us. If like me, you’re awful with flower names, I’d suggest going for a ready-made package. I told our florist what I liked and left the rest to her - a decision that saved me hours of stress! One thing I didn’t consider was just how many flowers we would need to take home the next day. We gave our friends and family some of the centrepieces as gifts, which they loved, and it meant we didn’t have to take them all home with us - win, win!
I didn’t anticipate how I would feel after purchasing my dress. I felt so much pressure to have this overcome-with-emotion moment when wearing it, that I started to question if I’d made the right decision. My poor bridesmaids had to deal with so many meltdowns about it, but now that the day has been and gone, I can say that the dress was perfect for me. If you start to panic that you’ve made the wrong choice, think about how you felt when you first tried it on and cling to that feeling. I had several photos of myself in the dress that I would obsess over and criticise, and if I could go back in time, I would delete those photos so I wouldn’t waste time worrying. On the day, with your hair and make-up done, you’ll feel amazing, and all those doubts will drift away. Go with your gut, don’t panic about how you should be feeling or what you should be wearing, and do what makes you happy!
Dave and I met our andamazingfriend’swhilephotographerhewasworkingatawedding.Hehasanstylethatwebothloved,wefoundhimreallyeasytobearound.Oneofthebestthingswedidintherun-uptotheweddingwasbookapre-weddingshoot.Wewerebothquitenervousinfrontofthecamera,andthisputusateaseandmeantthatwhenwegottothebigday,webothfeltrelaxedhavingourpicturetaken.
As some of you may remember, make-up is not my forte, and I’m embarrassed to tell you that I can’t tell the difference between highlighter, foundation and concealer! I booked a trial with my hair and make-up artist a few weeks before the wedding. If you’re worried about how you’ll look on the day or want to try different styles, I would definitely recommend doing this. I’m so glad I did, and it meant that I felt relaxed knowing that my suppliers had everything under control on the day.
One thing that we learnt after the wedding is that everyone loves cake! We purchased 50 cake boxes as we’ve both been to weddings where it gets left at the end of the night, so we thought that would be more than enough. However, those 50 went within an hour, and we had guests asking for additional pieces, so I would definitely provide more boxes than you need.
Surround yourself with people that you trust and love. My bridesmaids were amazing in the run-up to the wedding and on the day itself. They spoiled me with two hen dos, which were fabulous, a wedding-themed advent calendar full of fun and thoughtful gifts and endless support and love throughout the planning process. Trust me when I say that you will feel calmer on the wedding morning if you’re surrounded by your best friends. They made sure I looked and felt perfect, and I don’t think I could have done it without them.
Dave and I knew we wanted a band for our evening reception thatwould get everyone up and dancing. We booked an amazing trio wholearnt our first dance song and incorporated some of our favouritetunes into their set list. We were a bit worried that people would getbored or restless throughout the day, but all of our guests were quitecontent chatting during the drinks reception, and I’m quite glad wekept things scaled back as it allowed us to catch up with friends andfamily who we hadn’t seen in a long time due to the pandemic.
Our ceremony was performed by a registrar, who we didn’t meet untilthe morning of the wedding. Originally, this made me feel anxious butthe whole process went smoothly, and the ladies conducting our servicewere calming and reassuring. We incorporated promises to each otherin our vows that we felt represented us as a couple. For those of youabout to tie the knot, try and forget about all of the small things, asthere’s nothing more special than looking into your partner’s eyes andtelling them how much you love them in front of your loved ones.
Talk to your friends and family and see if they’d like to have an active role in your day. Our mums were really pleased that we asked them to be our witnesses, and it was a lovely way of including them in the ceremony. My beloved bridesmaid, Kelly, also sang a song accompanied by Dave on the guitar during the wedding breakfast. It was really touching and one of my favourite moments from the day.
SAY IT WORDSWITH your best girls with
These 14-carat white gold pavé hoop earrings, £404, are made with sustainably grown diamonds and form part of the recent collection from jewellers Vrai, https://uk.vrai.com
Grace Loves Lace has recently unveiled the second part of their Amavi occasionwear collection featuring classic bias-cut slip dresses made from 95% recycled satin. The earthy colour palette consists of dusky pink and moss green styles, https://graceloveslace.co.uk
Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals the latest bridal news, buys and launches
Put your best bridal foot forward in these Leah sandals, £525, personalised with ‘Wifey for Lifey’ on the www.sophiawebster.comsole,
Thank the leading lady in your life with this Italian leather trinket box, £110, www noblemacmillan.com
Roco Clothing has just launched a new sustainable collection of dresses that includes a junior flowergirl and teen selection for those fashion-yet-planet-conscious teenagers. This Tinker Bell-style tulle dress, £49, features a semi-sheer pleated bodice and floaty layered cap sleeves, www.rococlothing.co.uk
UK-based online jewellery store Primrose Hill Jewellery has unveiled its wedding collection that includes an enchanting range of earrings, bracelets, necklaces and sets, like these little gems from www.primrosehilljewellery.com/wedding-jewelleryDiamonfire,
The perfect pick for newlyweds, check out the L’Essenziale 18-carat gold bracelet that’s invisibly welded to the wrist (with no clasp) to form an eternal strand from jeweller Atelier VM at www.ateliervm.com/eu/enLiberty, to view video
This 14-carat rose gold Kensington bracelet features a ruby root, a symbol of good https://tateossian.comfortune,
Touch up your wedding dress on the go with this cute pink handheld steamer, £120, https://steamery.co.uk
This handmade sterling silver spinner pendant necklace, £88, can be customised with a message on the front and back, the perfect gift for the morning of the wedding, www.wildfawnjewellery.com
He has a way of blending music which defines his style and giving you the vibe to chill, dance and have a great time. Music had a big impact on his life and career which made him grow and become the best version of himself. Daniel has experience in the industry of music and pays attention to its details. He is creating a name for himself as the Sax Guy for your day. His life passion is music that inspires him and he inspires others, by entertaining people from the way he creates a whole new mood on the dance floor and makes you have an unforgettable and great time with the ones you love and care about. He will provide you with pop performances, classics, smooth jazz, to freestyles such as Ibiza ocean club style and dance anthems.
Daniel comes with a variety of music and sax shows. He has attended corporate anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, private events and great venues in the UK.
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With breathtaking panoramic views this beautiful venue is situated in a two acre field which guests can enjoy by leading out from double doors by the bar onto the seated patio area.
Fully comprehensive outdoor lighting, on-site parking and outdoor picnic tables are included at no extra cost. On-site toilets plus disabled facilities are accommodated for.
Although at present we do not hold licensing to host wedding ceremonies, there are plenty of nearby places to choose from, with village churches and chapels and of course the Castle Bude overlooking Summerleaze beach.
Milton Barn exudes country chic charm which lends equally as well to traditional or modern themes of weddings. 01288
Annette
Nicole Petty, haircare expert for Milk + Blush, shares 2022’s most popular wedding hair trends and how to achieve them
We often think of long hair being the height of romance, but shorter wedding hair is having a moment in 2022. Many have taken inspiration from Kourtney Kardashian's latest look and have adopted her flippy bob for their big days.
To get the look, use a hair mousse for plenty of volume. Then, with a round brush, blow dry the ends upwards to create the flick. Follow with the cool setting to help your locks stay in place and finish by spritzing with hairspray.
Although, achieving the perfect messy bun can feel like an impossible task TikTok has the answer with a viral hack that’s seen more than six millionSectionviews…your hair into two ponytails and twist into rope braids. Next, tie the ends of the hair back into the pony to create two loops. Finally, thread one loop through the other to create the bun and secure in place with bobby pins. To elevate the look into the bridal realm, pull out some face-framing tendrils and loosely curl them for the ultimate romantic up do.
Nothing exudes glamour like Hollywood waves, a firm favourite among brides. Jennifer Lopez showed just how stunning the style can be at her recent wedding to Ben Affleck, styling her hair in loose curls, with the top layer pulled back into a subtle bouffant.
To recreate the look, use a oneinch curling iron to curl the tresses in layers from the bottom up, holding the curling iron horizontally and rolling the hair downwards as though you’re using rollers. Finish by gently combing through and positioning the hair to create continuous waves before holding the still-hot curling iron against where they dip and clip them in place to cool and set.
Romantic, versatile and effortlessly elegant this has been one of the most popular styles for brides to wear this year.
Almost anyone can wear a half-up, half-down do, but for those with fine hair, consider investing in some extensions for more body. Focus on creating some height at the crown with some volumising spray and
For clip-in hair extensions to boost your look, check out www.milkandblush.com
Let your eyes do the talking on your wedding day with the new range of seamless lashes from Eyelash Emporium. The perfect addition to that popular natural, soft glam bridal make-up look, the SEAMLash collection is designed to be applied underneath the natural lash line to create a bandless finish that lasts up to 24 hours.
Prices start from £12.95 and they’re available in two gorgeous designs: Winged & Wispy, and Full & Fluttery.
Check out www.eyelashemporium.com
As you’ll know if you’ve been following her Bride’s Dairy features, our own CWM bride, Melissa Barker (now Cullen), tied the knot this summer. When her make-up artist advised at her trial that she begin a skincare regime and invest in a moisturiser, exfoliator and eye cream, we leapt into action to find the best products for her. Here, Melissa shares her skincare journey to W-day…
Glossybox Skincare Exfoliating Clay Scrub £13, www.glossybox.co.uk100ml,
I wasn’t really sure what to expect from this exfoliating scrub, but after just one use, my skin felt smoother and healthier. Unlike many other exfoliators I’ve tried, this wasn’t too harsh on my skin, but still did a great job of cleaning my pores. After six weeks of use, I still have over half of the 100ml bottle left, so it’s great value for money, and I’d recommend it to anyone.
Ameliorate Replenishing Facial £24,Cream75ml, www.ameliorate.com
I was a little apprehensive about trying this face cream, as more often than not, new products make my skin break out. I was pleasantly surprised that after just one use, my skin felt hydrated and smooth and best of all, it didn’t cause any unwanted reactions. I’ve been using this twice a day for six weeks, and I’ve definitely seen a smoother and softer result.
Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus + Eye £83, www.lookfantastic.com15ml,
This cream is designed to reduce the look of dark spots and smooth the appearance of lines, wrinkles and uneven texture underneath your eyes. I’m 27 and like to think I don’t have too many wrinkles yet, but I do have dark circles, so I was interested to see whether this cream would help. After six weeks of use, it had decreased the puffiness around my eyes and has made the dark circles less noticeable. It’s left my skin feeling soft and hydrated, and a little goes a long way.
Beauty editor Kelly Andrews brings you the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be
When Patchology’s Rosé Sheet Masks landed on my desk in the middle of the summer heatwave I couldn’t wait to get home and chill. Literally that is, as the pack states “served chilled,” so I popped them in the fridge post haste. I’d been suffering with very dry skin, which had me in a panic about Melissa’s impending wedding day and how it would affect the look of my make-up – one more reason to take this mask out for a spin as it’s packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid. Even the pack adorned with champagne glasses looks wedding ready!
So, I smoothed one of these chilled sheets masks onto my hot and bothered face and settled myself on the patio with a glass of wine and a book. Let me tell you, after a scorching day, this was heaven. It calmed my angry skin right down, but not only that, the dry patches were much improved after massaging the remaining serum into my skin. In fact, my make-up artist wasn’t sure what I was worried about when I shared my dry skin woes on the big day, and my foundation went on a dream. Thanks Patchology! £28 for four masks, https://patchology.co.uk
Premium Spanish spa brand Germaine de Capuccinni will be ditching the usual grey bottle of its hero product, Timexpert SRNS Repair Night Progress Serum, in favour of a pink version in honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
The brand’s most technologically advanced booster serum for youthful, rejuvenated skin is packed with no less than 22 active ingredients. Having evolved over the years, its new formula includes an innovative ingredient that increases the power of absorption by eight, making the serum penetrate deeper for fast, effective results. At night, while your skin is more receptive, it repairs damage and re-activates cellular regeneration. During the day it protects skin against environmental factors and external aggressors. £127.50, https://germaine-de-capuccini.co.uk
Far from an ordinary bar of soap, le savon lune from silver-based brand ARgENTUM is an ingenious cleanser in solid form, making it perfect for popping into your suitcase as you head off on honeymoon.
Any water content in the product is replaced with the brand’s patented fusion of silver hydrosol and DNA HP, and targets blemishes while leaving skin clean, cushioned and visibly healthier. Great for men or women, the formulation is also enhanced by bentonite, a colloidal clay composed of aged volcanic ash, traditionally used for its healing effect. Combined with other winning ingredients, this ensures a purifying action without dehydrating or irritating your skin, keeping it in check without upsetting its natural balance. £80, www.argentumapothecary.com
According to experts, keratosis pilaris or strawberry legs is something that’s present in 80 per cent of adolescents and 40 per cent of adults and is aggravated by heat and sun exposure. At last count #strawberrylegs peaked at 144.9 million views, but is still growing. Enter Luna Daily’s Everything Oil, this skincare saviour is clinically proven to visibly reduce ingrown hairs, scars, stretch marks, dark spots, redness and bumps for smooth, soft skin. Plus, this lightweight and deeply moisturising, multi-tasking oil is gentle enough to use anywhere on your body. £18, https://luna-daily.com
If you prefer to de-fuzz at home, check out Parissa’s 100 per cent natural cruelty-free and leaping-bunny-certified wax range. The products and their packaging are all made from sustainable, ethically-sourced, natural materials, so if you care as much about the environment as you do about what you put on your skin, give them a go. Say “no” to synthetic waxes!
There are a wide range of options available depending on your experience and hair type. I tried Parissa Legs & Body Warm Wax (£13). Just pop it in the microwave to warm it up and you’re off! Everything you need is included from spatulas to strips. I decided to wax one leg and shave the other for comparison. There’s a slight chance I over heated the product as my waxed leg was livid with me afterwards. However, the redness had all gone down by the morning and I was left with a silky-smooth result versus the shaved leg, which was dry and still a bit rough. The waxed leg was good to go beyond the spray tan too, so I didn’t need to risk any damage, and lasted past Melissa’s wedding and well into the following week before I needed to take further action. My advice would be to start with the wax strips if you’re not used to waxing at home or have sensitive skin, but I was super-pleased with the results.
Check out https://parissa.com
The days of using a wealth of products on your hair are over with TAOH, as the brand makes taking care of your locks a doddle with its line of key products with all-in-one solutions to help you achieve the glossiest, most luxe-looking and healthy tresses no matter the type or condition.
The Hydrate Shampoo (£17) and Conditioner (£18) are now a mainstay in my shower and are infused with organic plant oils that have breathed new life into my hair. By far my favourite product in the range though is the TAOH Oil (£20). Argan, macadamia and kukui oils help to restore the life and shine of locks, while promoting scalp health to encourage growth and vitality. It also prevents split ends, calms frizz and detangles. I used it after washing my hair the morning of Melissa’s wedding and received multiple compliments throughout the day about how shiny it
Checklooked!outhttps://taoh.co.uk
We all know stress can play havoc with our skin and let’s face it, planning a wedding can be trying. Peace Out skincare has a range of solution-based products to ensure your complexion is picture-perfect on your big day.
It all starts with the prep and so it’s time to bring your A-game… vitamin A that is! Peace Out’s Retinol Face Stick (£28) and Retinol Eye Stick (£25) offer an encapsulated retinol blend that softens the look of wrinkles and texture without any of the harsh side effects. In addition, the fruit enzyme complex combines papaya and pumpkin to target pores and reveal brighter, smoother-looking skin. Start using three-months prior to the nuptials to ensure you’re wedding ready.
Check out www.cultbeauty.co.uk
Passionate bridal hair designer with over 12 years experience. Specialising in boho & romantic bridal styles with up-to-date techniques. Let’s start your wedding hair journey together www.thelighthouseweddinghair.com thelighthousehair@gmail.com | 07445 158419
Meet the expert: Helena Giles is the owner of Your Beautiful Day UK offering a mobile beauty service, and wedding planning across the South West.
How can I achieve glowing skin before my wedding?
Helena says: Getting your skin plump, fresh and free from blemishes isn’t solely for your hen party or your wedding day, it’s a goal to achieve every day. Consider adding to your wedding prep by drinking plenty of water, investing in a good day and night skincare regime that includes a face mask once a week and let’s not forget those all-important eight hours of beauty sleep a night either!
Speak with your beautician about products and brands that suit you. Look at your budget and factor in what you’d like to achieve, for example, closing your pores, reducing dark circles or banishing those blemishes.
I use Younique both personally and professionally alongside favourites from Charlotte Tilbury, Illamasqua, Urban Retreat by Acti-Labs and Arbonne. Great products produce fantastic results and achieving great skin can be a work in progress for around three to six months before your wedding day.
I’m considering hair extensions for my wedding. Any advice?
Meet the expert: Martine Rodda is the managing director of DeModa Organic Hair & Beauty (Redruth) Ltd in Cornwall.
Martine says: Often, brides will send me pictures of their dream wedding hair but their locks may not be long enough, or thick enough to get the look. One solution is to add hair extensions or hair pieces. The different types of extensions include ponytail ones to add length and shine or a braided bun to add volume to fine hair. A braided headband is a great way of achieving the bohemian look when worn with loose tumbling waves or curls and you can add a flower to complete this fashionable look. Alternatively, tape hair extensions are quick to apply and work well on fine hair while sewn-in weaves add length. Individual bonds are ideal if you wish to continue wearing them and halo extensions (attached with a wire) and clip-in extensions are both for temporary use.
CONTACT OUR EXPERTS
DeModa Organic Hair & Beauty (Redruth) Ltd, 01209 843 466, www.demodasalons.com Your Beautiful Day UK, 07412 454 549, www.yourbeautifuldayuk.co.uk
Kilian Hennessy, the founder of luxury company Kilian, has been developing his own cologne for years. The result, Kologne, Shield of Protection, is a new scent that’s perfect for the groom-to-be.
Kologne, Shield of Protection is a splash of freshness, made with luminous citrus notes, green mandarin, bitter orange, mint, rosemary, neroli, cedarwood, cashmere and an accord of green vegetal notes.
To find out more, visit www.bykilian.co.uk
AVI-8 Watches have introduced the new Hawker Hurricane Clowes Automatic. Inspired by the RAF’s No. 1 Squadron and the courageous Arthur “Tay” Clowes, The Hawker Hurricane Clowes Automatic has been designed as a commanding and pronounced watch to honour their incredible accomplishments during WWII.
As a tribute to Clowes and the Squadron he flew for, his aircraft code is stamped into the piece along with a second hand counter-balance created in the form of the Hawker Hurricane.
Available to buy from www.avi-8.co.uk
Rotary Watches has launched
The Henley Timepiece Collection. Powerfully built in stainless steel and sapphire glass, each timepiece is water resistant up to 100m and contains a Miyota quartz-powered chronograph movement and date function.
This new season of Henley products also includes a trio of stylish ladies timepieces. Like their men’s counterparts, each of these watches is made with stainless steel and sapphire glass, as well as a luminescent hand for optimalDiscoverreading.more about the collection at www.rotarywatches.com
Grooms editor Melissa Cullen reveals the latest best buys and product launches Grooms’
British independent designer, The Camden Watch Company has announced its move into jewellery. The new Memento Mori 925 sterling silver unisex ring is adorned with the company’s Memento Mori design.
Memento Mori translates as: ‘Remember you must die’, a recurring theme in Victorian jewellery and art. Contrary to how that may sound, Memento Moris was intended as a celebration of life, to remind us that life is short and every second counts.
Anneke Short, designer and co-founder of The Camden Watch Company, said: “While watch design has always been a passion, I originally studied jewellery making and decided it was time to pursue this. While I love all the products we make, the Memento Mori seemed most natural, especially with its link to the Victorian era who had a fascination with collecting Memento Mori keepsakes.”
Head over to www.camdenwatchcompany.com to find out more.
Mr Porter sells must-have luxury fashion from more than 500 of the world’s most sought-after brands. The company are on a mission to provide men with everything they need to look and feel their best.
To help, Danish brand James Ay is now being stocked by Mr Porter. The company is an ode to the modern inventor of sunglasses, James Ayscough. In a vein similarly daring to the pioneer, its biodegradable frames are fully plantbased - made from Mazzucchelli M49 acetate – and range from edgy to classicCheckdesigns.outwww.mrporter.com for more information.
Velvet Cotton Dinner Jacket,
Moss
opened at the end of 2021 after a total renovation of the former Hotel Impero, located in the centre of Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. The sustainble project was designed by the Gris+Dainese studio in Venice and offers a contemporary experience.
Open year-round, the property has 22 rooms, a spa on the top floor overlooking the mountains and valley, as well as a restaurant and a bar.
During the warmer seasons, Cortina d’Ampezzo offers more than 850 climbing routes for hiking and trekking, as well as restaurants and mountain refuges. Cortina is also famous for its via ferratas, equipped with metal cables, walkways, suspension bridges and stairs. Additionally, there are 16 routes for mountain bike enthusiasts, numerous options for E-bikes and 700km of cycle paths for road bikes that take you through breathtaking landscapes. To find out more, visit
Villas are only a few minutes drive from the island’s capital town and port. Part of a fourvilla complex, each villa can be rented out separately with up to four guests each or as a whole to accommodate large groups of family and friends with a shared swimming pool and outdoor living areas.
Each villa is a three-storey home thoughtfully designed to offer a comfortable stay featuring open-plan spaces and large floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping views of the Pigadia Bay. The main floor features a cosy living room overlooking the surrounding gardens and sea, and the mezzanine level includes an en suite king-size bedroom and a separate bathtub. A fully-equipped kitchen and dining area as well as an en suite double bedroom can be found on the lower level.
Karpathos is a remote paradis with picturesque landscapes perfect for rock climbing, hiking, biking, scuba diving and windsurfing. Find out more at www.thegreekvillas.com
Located on the Medieval Greek island of Rhodes and surrounded by endless views of the Aegean Coast stands The Ixian Grand & All Suites. This season, the property invites couples to enjoy all-inclusive spa and wellness experiences in collaboration with the award-winning wellness brand, Aegeo Spa. Those looking for ultimate relaxation can book a Cretan couple’s massage in a private and secluded room with warm essential oils. The retreat also offers revitalising treatments such as an 80-minute full body massage, mini facials, bronzing therapies and body masks.
The Ixian Grand & All Suites is home to six stylish restaurants and bars and 348 beautiful rooms decorated in calming neutral shades, exuding sophistication and elegance. Each space has been designed with ultimate rest and relaxation in mind. Deluxe Rooms are available with spa tubs and views of the sea and gardens, while the Grand Suites are accompanied by private or shared pools with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea.
To book, visit www.theixiangrand.gr
Travel editor Melissa Cullen reveals new openings and honeymoon essentials
QuintaPORTUGALdoLagoiscelebrating its 50th birthday. During that time, it has provided top-of-therange residential offerings, world-class sport, wellness and lifestyle facilities and five-star cuisine, all whilst maintaining a virtually untouched region of natural beauty.
As well as improving sustainability on its three 18-hole championship courses, Quinta do Lago is adopting an enhanced approach to conservation across the resort, including its world-class sports hub, The Magnolia Hotel, its 13 bars and restaurants and general resort
Seanservices.Moriarty, the CEO of Quinta do Lago, comments: “The history of Quinta do Lago lives on in every corner of the resort today; a legacy of lifestyle firmly rooted in health, family and connection to nature. As an award-winning, world-renowned destination for luxury lifestyle, we are proud to be a place of constant inspiration, where the quality of life is measured by outdoor lifestyle and treasured family moments, and with a commitment to nature, our sustainable approach protects the environment and secures the future for generations to come.”
The resort will be celebrating its 50th birthday with a variety of events over the comingDiscovermonths.more at www.quintadolago.com
Nisantasi, Istanbul’s hottest new hotel for 2022, is now open for bookings. This beautifully-designed 82-room property in the heart of the city’s refined fashion and cultural district joins The Stay’s established collection of luxurious properties.
In keeping with the rest of the collection, The Stay Boulevard Nisantasi offers guests a blend of heritage, arts, culture and stellar design. Acclaimed Turkish architect Mahmut Anlar has created a hip hideaway with rooms and suites with walk-in closets, grand marble bathrooms and kitchenettes. Many of them connect for extended stays or large groups, and The Stay Boulevard Suite includes a terrace perfect for sipping drinks as the sun sets.
After a day visiting the historical sights and contemporary museums, guests will love retreating to the spa and wellness floor for a dip in the indoor pool, a Pilates session or an authentic Turkish hammam.
The location boasts designer boutiques from Louis Vuitton to Chanel, and Hermes, as well as local designers such as Begum Khan.
Head over to www.thestay.com.tr for more information.
Villa Beach Resort, St Lucia, has announced a new wellness program. Known for its Mediterranean-style offerings, Windjammer Landing boasts guest rooms and villas with waterfront views overlooking Labrolette Bay and the Caribbean Sea. The wellness program includes Hummingbird Yoga, Detox, Immunity and Weight Loss Retreats, Complete Serenity Packages and Sunset Beach
“SincePicnics.thestart of the pandemic, our guests have become more health-conscious and wellness-oriented, which has inspired us to reflect on how we deliver a meaningful practice,” said Alex Danila, the director of spa and wellness. “We’re using our idyllic setup to inspire travellers from all around the world to practice meaningful wellness through these programs, so they’ll leave our slice of heaven feeling fully rejuvenated.”
Visit www.windjammer-landing.com for more information.
the perfect getaway for those wanting a summer holiday in the mountains. The Lodge, Sir Richard Branson’s famed mountain retreat, is situated in the heart of Verbier, just five-minutes from the village centre. Comprising of nine bedrooms and suites, sleeping up to 18 adults, The Lodge boasts a traditionally-made bunkroom, equipped with a TV, PlayStation, and beanbags, making it the ideal bedroom and hangout for up to six children.
Guests can spend their days hiking and biking through the mountains, discovering more of the local area, or putting their feet up with a good book by the pool. Verbier has something for everyone, including cable cars that reach the summit of Mont Fort, stunning golf ranges, family horse treks, boutiques and designer shops.
Check out www.virginlimitededition.com/en/the-lodge for more information.
Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding is just one of our many County Wedding titles − find out more on our Weyourdevoncornwall.weddingwebsitelovefeaturinglocalcouplesandcompanies.Ifyouwanttogetintouchemaileditor@county.weddingforyourchancetogracethepagesofnextissue
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From the moment I arrived in Madrid, a two-and-a-half hour flight from London, I was greeted by a myriad of narrow streets and large squares filled with landmarks to fill my Insta feed at every turn, from the iconic Royal Palace of Madrid and Plaza Mayor to the eclectic mix of boutiques, tapas restaurants and bars. This extended bank holiday is a great time to visit when the weather has warmed up (average temperature 67 degrees) but the heat of the summer hasn’t yet descended on the city.
Nestled in the heart of this largest city in Spain, tucked away on Calle de Echegaray, sits the five-star Gran Hotel Inglés, Madrid’s oldest hotel having opened its doors for the first time in 1886. Located a 25-minute drive from the airport, I was excited to visit this boutique property, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, that oozes the glamour of bygone times from the moment you step into the decadent 1920s-inspired lobby with its feature bar, mirrored walls and Art Deco touches.
into a delicious menu of pastries, cold meats and cheese, eggs benedict and a selection of miniature desserts washed down with a Cosmopolitan cocktail, all while enjoying live music from talented singer, songwriter and guitarist Gigi (www.instagram.com/gigimcfarlane).McFarlane
with a choice of L’Occitane bath products. A highlight was the balcony providing outside space in the city –stepping on to it and admiring the view, I felt like I was in a movie.
Restaurant Casa Lobo in the hotel is well-known on the Madrid dining scene, with its open-plan kitchen serving traditional dishes. A highlight for me was the Show Brunch, priced at 45 euros per person and served every Sunday in the lobby, where I tucked
A fun way of giving my body a little TLC after a day spent sightseeing was a visit to the dedicated spa facility and wellness area where I reserved the jacuzzi and had exclusive use of the entire spa. Tempting treatments on the extensive spa menu that uses Sisley products include an aromatic Californian massage.
A visit to the tourist hotspot Sol-Gran Via is a must, where adjoining streets blend culture and history with theatres, restaurants and shops. El Retiro Park provides a green oasis in the heart of the city, the perfect spot for a picnic with its pretty Rosaleda Rose Garden and a large artificial lake where rowing boats can be rented.
The hotel boasts 48 luxurious rooms and suites, from the spacious Deluxe and Grand Deluxe Rooms to the Echegaray Suite (bearing the same name as the street outside) which was my home-from-home for three nights. This stylish space sleeps up to four people in two large suites interconnected by a hallway (perfect if you’re enjoying a family-moon). There are two king-size beds with a pillow menu that guaranteed my beauty sleep, two fully equipped bathrooms with waterfall showers and a freestanding vintage-inspired bathtub
Last but certainly not least, the La Latina neighbourhood situated in the heart of Madrid, dating back to the Middle Ages, is home to the famous El Rastro Flea Market which was top of my list to discover. Allow some time in this bustling area that offers a romantic mix of old meets new. Viva España! IT: Rates at from approx £325 per room per night on a bed and breakfast
After what felt like an eternity of not being able to travel due to restrictions, I was so excited to visit the Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel – especially after seeing images of the stunning property online. For the first time in three years, I packed my bags and headed to theDubrovnikairport!
is a wonderful place to visit, evident even from thousands of feet up in the air. The crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches and picturesque landscapes create the perfect backdrop for honeymoons –no wonder it’s known as the Pearl of the Adriatic. After a short flight, we touched down and the real adventure began!
With a beachfront location and a showstopping backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, the five-star hotel offers some of the best views in Dubrovnik. From the moment I arrived, the staff were so welcoming and accommodating –nothing was too much trouble.
With 292 luxurious rooms, I couldn’t wait to see where I would spend the next few nights and wasn’t disappointed when I entered the spacious deluxe double room. The air-conditioned space featured double sinks, a waterfall shower, bath, seating area and a queen-sized bed. My favourite part of the room was the balcony, where I spent most of my time soaking up the sun on the loungers.
The hotel has everything needed for memorable holidays from restaurants, bars, pools, a spa area and a gym – there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The well-maintained facilities were excellent, and I especially loved the outdoor pool area surrounded by sun loungers – the perfect location to relax your senses.
The beach was located only a few meters from the property and was a wonderful place to relax. With a peaceful atmosphere, crystal-clear waters and the sound of crashing waves, what better location to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life?
As a massive food lover, I couldn’t wait to try some local delicacies. The hotel is home to three restaurants; each offering something different to cater for all tastes.
When we first arrived at the hotel, we had a welcoming meal in the Momenti Restaurant. Here I enjoyed a prawn and beetroot starter, sea bass with potatoes and asparagus for main and a tasty chocolate cake
for dessert. The food was divine, especially the fluffy and dreamy potatoes!
Each morning I was greeted with a delicious sea of food, from cereals, pastries, granola and fresh fruit to a selection of hot food, including sausages, omelettes, bacon and hash browns. The buffet restaurant was superb, with a laid-back atmosphere and a variety of food on offer. Every night the chefs used fresh ingredients to create a fantastic selection of Mediterranean and international specialities that even the fussiest eaters would enjoy. A highlight of my trip was sitting outside on the terrace during dinner, it had a romantic atmosphere and was the perfect location to watch the sun set. For those chilly evenings, guests can sit indoors while enjoying the stunning views thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. One of my favourite meals from the restaurant was a spaghetti dish - the flavours were unbelievable and I wish I knew the recipe!
For more of a relaxed meal, the Miramare is a beachfront restaurant that offers panoramic views and a wide range of food. It was here where I enjoyed a chicken BLT, the best sandwich I’d ever eaten, and sipped on someWecocktails. hadafarewell
meal at the Momenti Restaurant on our last night at the hotel’s sister property – Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel. After a short walk, we arrived at the sophisticated space and enjoyed a goose liver pâté with puff pastry pears, followed by scallops and a hazelnut and chocolate cake to finish. Croatia is well known for its wine, so of course I had to try a few glasses. destination
I couldn’t fault the service, the staff were always very attentive, friendly and professional. My glass was never empty, and I felt thoroughly looked after.
What better way to explore Dubrovnik than on an electric tuktuk? The tour started at the portside market in Gruz Harbour where we got a chance to see the local area and fishermen. We had so much fun whizzing around the streets and enjoying the incredible views, especially from the Franjo Tuđman Bridge. I loved visiting the top of Srđ Mountain and seeing the beautiful islands off the coast. The guides were excellent and they shared so much history and knowledge.
The hotel is only a few minutes from the charming Old Town, which is enclosed by Medieval walls, and is a must-visit destination. Game of Thrones fans would recognise the spaces from the much-loved show as the town was a filming destination for some very iconic scenes.
In the Old Town you’ll find cobbled streets, bars, shops and restaurants, alongside many awe-inspiring historical features and architecture. The town has survived chronicled events, such as the 17th-century earthquake and The Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s.
Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel is home to the Balance Mediterranean Spa by Valamar. Here we truly indulged in the facilities and treatment menu. I had a 35-minute de-stress massage which I was nervous about at first, as I’d never had a massage before, but the team were fantastic and put my mind at ease. My body felt amazing and I will be getting another one soon! I walked out of the room completely at peace and headed straight to the waterbeds in the relaxation room. There are many other treatments guests can book too including facials, pedicures, manicures, body treatments and more.
The facilities in the spa were great with a steam room and saunas, indoor pool and, for ladies-only, The Afrodita Spa.
Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel is perfect for those on a budget who still want to enjoy pure luxury. This four-spa hotel has many stylish rooms, a refurbished lobby and pool area.
I highly recommend visiting the Coral Beach Club Dubrovnik for those staying in either hotel. With beach activities, excellent dining, entertainment, bars and spa elements, this popular space is not one to miss! The food here was fantastic and it’s the ideal space to spend a few hours relaxing with a cocktail in hand.
I couldn’t fault my stay at the Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel. If you’re searching for the perfect honeymoon destination, look no further. The hotel provides the most romantic setting to relax and enjoy quality time with loved ones.
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Brimstone Hotel in the Lake District has 16 luxurious suites with log-burning stoves, emperor beds and private balconies. Couples will receive complimentary access to the spa, thermal experience, pool, fitness studio, exercise classes and sauna. The Stove Restaurant and Bar serves brunch and dinner, plus it has a fantastic selection of fine wines and craft ales to try. If you fancy something a little more rustic, then the traditional Lakeland pub, the Wainwrights’ Inn, offers hearty home-cooked meals.
Enjoy a relaxing minimoon in some of the UK’s best boltholes
To book and find out more, visit www.brimstonehotel.co.uk escapesSweet
Family-owned Penhein Glamping in Monmouthshire has launched a dedicated Go Wild family break to max out summer adventures for families wanting to roam free and switch off. For adults and kids wanting to carve out time in nature, to relax and run wild, then fall asleep smelling of woodsmoke in the comfiest of beds, the new Go Wild break is ideal.
There is an adventure playground, rope swings, a crate of outdoor games, a brook for paddling and eight acres of wildflower meadow perfect for picnics, frolics, kite flying and hiding out.
Relax in one of the eight spacious Persian Alachigh tents, with high domes and skylights for stargazing, tucked away in a peaceful and private corner of coppiced woodland.
Discover more at www.penhein.co.uk
Bughtrig Cottage, in Coldstream on the Scottish Border, is a delightful, traditional stone cottage on the edge of the stunning Bughtrig Estate. This two-bedroom property has been completely renovated and boasts an exquisite interior and impressive original artwork. Outside, there is a charming garden with a small summer house and handcrafted bar for guests to mix delicious sundowners whilst admiring views over the Cheviot Hills. Couples will also have exclusive access to the formal gardens and tennis courts on the estate.
Crabtree & Crabtree’s Doorstep Delivery service is available and includes a diverse selection of edible and quaffable services, anything from parcels of delicious fresh produce and responsibly-sourced artisanal meats to fine wines and pasta – the perfect treat for honeymooners.
To find out more, visit www.crabtreeandcrabtree.com
Hex Cottage in Suffolk is a romantic one-bedroom cottage with no electricity – the perfect place to experience times bygone and take a digitalOncedetox.aforester’s cottage, it still retains many of its original features, from the bread oven to the outside larder. The candle-lit bedroom oozes romance with sheepskin rugs and a wood burner to keep you snug. The en-suite has a freestanding roll-top bath with stunning views out over the woodland. The cottage comes with plenty of candles, a cosy fireplace, board games as well as wellies and pashley bikes.
For more information, visit www.fishandpips.co.uk
Boaty McBoatface, one of the shepherd’s huts at The Fish Hotel in the Cotswolds, is nestled into a hillside and offers impressive views. This luxury hideaway comes complete with a double bedroom and en-suite
Couplesbathroom.staying in Boaty McBoatface can embark on their own nautical adventure in the on-site paddle boat perfect for exploring the private lake or for popping across to the private island, which comes complete with decking and seats to enjoy long romantic evenings. Visit www.fishandpips.co.uk for more information.
The Gainsborough Bath Spa is the ideal setting for those looking for grandeur and sophistication and is a stone’s throw from where Netflix’s new film, Persuasion, was shot. The Gainsborough Bath Spa offers guests a taste of living in an Austen novel with classic British afternoon tea and a prime location in the heart of the city, neighbouring the Bath Assembly Rooms, Roman Baths and Holburne Museum.
The storybook cobbled streets carry you through regal architecture at every turn, all once explored by Jane Austen herself, who lived in Bath from 1801 to 1806. This is the only hotel that offers direct access to the city’s natural thermal waters, where guests can look forward to an indulgent spa experience. Those looking to go all out can stay at The Townhouse, a private Georgian property that combines the grandeur of a private home with the five-star services of a luxury hotel. Head over to www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk for more information.
The Runnymede on Thames is located on the banks of the River Thames and is surrounded by beautiful British countryside. Located just 10 minutes from Windsor, the property offers riverboat cruises, an array of exciting outdoor pursuits, both on and off the river, and new dining options.
The impressive fleet of boats allow guests the chance to embark on a relaxing excursion on the water. Those wishing to self-drive for the day can set sail from the private jetty and navigate their way along the river. Whether you choose to sail upstream to Windsor or downstream to Shepperton, you can admire the picturesque views and local landmarks along the way, including Windsor Castle and Pharaoh’s Island.
The hotel has also reopened its spectacular, seasonally-heated outdoor swimming pool, in which couples can enjoy a refreshing dip and make use of the complimentary towels and comfortable sun loungers. Guests can enjoy four-hour paddle boarding sessions and glide down the river for an alternative way to admire the scenic views.
Check out www.runnymedehotel.com for more information.
Will’s Tree House in Upper Tysoe, Warwickshire, offers a simply stunning tree-top location from which to enjoy the tranquil views of Winchcombe Farm. Luxury and attention to detail go hand-in-hand to ensure a truly memorable experience for every guest. Stand-out features include a private hot tub, situated on the lower deck, a spacious wraparound decking area with plenty of comfortable seating and an outdoor shower hidden in an alcove for privacy. Designed with outdoor living in mind, the huge tree-lined part-covered deck is well equipped with a charcoal pizza oven, a gas barbecue, hanging chairs, a giant beanbag, a hammock, a dining area and wooden ergonomic sun loungers. There are even complimentary robes in which to relax and take in the idyllic views of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
This private country estate boasts a duck-filled pond, ponies, alpacas and lambs. There’s also a sumptuous king-size bed and fold-down fullsize single bunk beds, cleverly concealed in cupboards ready for when you need them.
Visit www.winchcombefarm.co.uk/portfolio/willstreehouse for more information.
Celebrating its 50 year anniversary throughout 2022, the Algarve’s Quinta do Lago Resort has been providing, since its inception, topof-the-range residential offerings, world-class sport, wellness and lifestyle facilities and five-star cuisine, all whilst maintaining a virtually untouched region of natural beauty.
The resort’s founder, Andre Jordan had a vision to create a destination inspired by nature, reflected in the resort’s ample natural spaces and green areas. From Jordan’s first impression of the landscape to its worldrenowned status today, the success of Quinta do Lago is found in its simplicity and unwavering vision of excellence.
Having been at the forefront of international golf, hosting eight Portuguese Opens as well as numerous other international tournaments, its home to three world-class golf courses and boasts a wealth of cuttingedge practice facilities.
As well as improving sustainability on its championship courses, Quinta do Lago is adopting an enhanced approach to conservation across other business sectors of the resort including at its world-class sports hub The Campus, The Magnolia Hotel, its 13 bars and restaurants and general resort services. The resort created its own farm last year, Q Farm, to provide its restaurants with homegrown organic produce and has now announced a series of further measures to help foster nature, including organising and participating in beach clean ups, placing information boards on the golf courses and nearby nature trails advising people of the wildlife living nearby and supporting the local community to learn about sustainable choices.
The aforementioned The Magnolia Hotel is a truly unique boutique hotel bringing a taste of Palm Springs to the Algarve. Offering an unbeatable location just moments away from Quinta do Lago, it provides an idyllic base to sample world class golf, shopping, beach, nightlife and
the new elite sports performance centre, The Campus.
Playing host to 74 rooms, three suites and seven one-of-a-kind cottages The Magnolia Hotel boasts a heated outdoor pool, colourful in-house restaurant, cinema, gymnasium and spa – what more could you desire for the perfect post-wedding Mediterranean getaway!
FOR MORE INFORMATION Quinta do Lago, call + 351 289 390 700 or visit: Thewww.quintadolago.comMagnoliaHotel,call +351 289 005 300 or visit www.themagnoliahotelqdl.com
Quinta do Lago is offering two nights at the beautiful The Magnolia Hotel on a B&B basis, including a dinner at Casa do Lago, the elegant restaurant boasts fresh fish, seafood and seasonal ingredients to make tasty dishes, all with a lovely lakeside view. The resort is also offering an experience at The Campus, the resorts elite performance facility with activities such as, tennis, padel, gym classes and a lovely spa facilities to relax in after a day of activities.
For your chance to win, answer the following question:
Q: What is the name of the resort’s elite sports performance centre?
Head over to our website www.yourdevoncornwall.wedding to enter. Closing date is 9th December, 2022. T&Cs apply. Good luck!
