NEARLYWED NEWS

YOUR ESSENTIALS Nearlywed NEWS All the latest from around the region

TIME TO CELEBRATE

Norfolk’s Bradley Hatch Jewellers is celebrating 28 years since first opening its doors in May 1994. Since then the shop in Wroxham has developed a reputation for high quality new and vintage jewellery, watches and more. A hotspot for newlyweds-to-be it offers a wide selection of engagement and wedding rings, as well as a bespoke wedding ring service, jewellery and accessories for the bride and groom, and giftware, ideal for the bridal party. With an experienced team and workshop on site, the business also offers a repairs and restoration service too, great if you’re look to revamp a family heirloom for your something old and something new. Visit www.bradleysthejewellers.com

PRE-WEDDING R&R

The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel in Newmarket has launched a new Ultimate Summer Prep Package, perfect for pre-wedding pampering and getting ready for the honeymoon. Treat yourself to some valuable me-time and enjoy three hours of indulgence with the spa’s expert therapists. The package includes a full-body exfoliation before the hydrating Mii tan is applied for a streak-free, summer glow. Relax and enjoy a glass of fizz before a Deluxe GELeration manicure and pedicure for top-to-toe, feelgood factor. Available until September this year, visit www.bedfordlodgehotelspa.co.uk/spa-treatments or call 01638 676 130 to book.

www.instagram.com/olivieryoan Model: www.instagram.com/amy_wanders

FLOWER CROWNS FOR UKRAINE

Claire Cowling of Suffolk-based Thrive Floristry (www.thrivefloristry.com) created this stunning headdress as part of an appeal to help victims of the war in Ukraine. “I really wanted to show my support personally and, together with a group of fellow florists, we decided to be part of a charity campaign to raise funds through our floristry skills,” she explains.

Fellow florists around the country have created flower crowns and vinoks, a traditional Ukrainian headdress, and posted photographs of them to raise money for the work being done to support those in need in the war-torn country.

Claire’s vinok was inspired by the traditional values of reusing what Mother Nature provides and includes a mix of fresh and dried materials in the colours of the Ukrainian flag, “It was such a joy to make,” she adds.

As a special thank-you, Claire is also providing instructions for all those that donate, so they can learn how to make their own flower crown. For full details visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/claire-m-cowling

www.sophiecass.com www.thymelanephotography.co.uk

EDITOR LOVES

A taste of cake heaven – this romantic, floral masterpiece by Amber Briggs of Norfolk-based Love Wedding Cakes features beautiful, handcrafted rice paper ruffles with sugar roses, ranunculus, magnolia and hydrangeas. Amber has spent years perfecting the art of making beautiful sugar flowers and foliage for her bespoke creations. She says, “Not only do they look beautiful on your wedding day, but they also make a wonderful keepsake long after the cake has been eaten!”

Sugar flowers can be made in any colour, at any time of the year and provide endless choice when it comes to designing your wedding cake. To find out more, visit www.loveweddingcakes.co.uk

COASTAL RETREAT

Close to the Suffolk coast and surrounded by woodland and forest, Butley Priory is not only a magical wedding venue, but a great place to stay. Just a short walk away Butley Abbey Farmhouse can sleep up to 24 people. The Grade II Georgian property has recently been refurbished and offers luxury accommodation over three floors. Overlooking a large garden, tennis court and croquet lawn, it’s a haven of peace and tranquillity. With three sitting rooms, all with open fires, and a large dining room, there are 12 spacious bedrooms, ideal for pre- or post-wedding stays. Visit www.butleypriory.co.uk and check out our coastal venues feature over on page 19 for details of weddings at Butley Priory. This striking cake is hand-painted in an ombre watercolour with a crescent of handmade sugar flowers, twigs, buds, berries and foliage, perfect for a woodland wedding.

TIME FOR TEA

If you’re looking for the perfect tipple for your big day or a deliciously sweet treat, look no further than Cambridgeshire-based Pinkster gin.

Pinkster Gin Jam uses gin-soaked raspberries left over from the production process and is ideal for adding that extra something special to an afternoon tea reception or something slightly stronger, like a moreish gin ‘n’ jam cocktail. The bulk of raspberries used in producing Pinkster are recycled as Boozy Berries and those that don’t make the cut are now being used for Gin Jam. With minimal wastage and sustainability too – it’s a win, win! Visit www.pinkstergin.com MAGICAL WEDDINGS

Professional toastmaster and master of ceremonies Matthew Biggin has released a new book to help couples make their dream wedding truly magical. With nearly 15 years’ experience in the industry, Cambridgeshire-based Matthew shares some of the secrets gained from officiating at almost 400 weddings in The Bride Whisperer’s Guide to Unveiling Your Magical Wedding. Packed with tips and advice, the guide covers everything from organising those all-important photos to making the most of your first dance. He says, “Many of the glitches that can occur, I see in retrospect – when it’s already too late to fix them. It’s my intention with this book to point out some simple and inexpensive measures that couples can take and consider when they plan their big day.”

Published by VINCIT Publishing with images by wedding photographer Aaron Storry, the book is currently available on Amazon. Visit www.theuktoastmaster.co.uk and don’t miss our hot topic feature on page 87 for Matthew’s summer wedding tips.

Sophie Cass Photography

br adle y ha tc h

je weller s