Your Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Wedding- October/November 2021 (Issue 29) by County Wedding Magazines

yourgloswilts.wedding

Big-day beauty All the latest must-have products

WIN! A minimoon in Provence worth up to £1,500

On the menu

Mouth-watering catering ideas

EXPERT ADVICE

from local wedding suppliers

Once upon

A TIME

Fairytale-inspired venues

SPOTLIGHT ON... Dreamy new-season dresses

Romantic real weddings

£3.55 OCT/NOV 2021

FABULOUS FASHION

Cheltenham and around

LOCAL NEWS, OFFERS, FASHION, BEAUTY, GROOMS, HONEYMOONS, VENUES AND MORE

Preserve your Family Heritage

From this...

To these... Remodeling your existing, otherwise unwanted or damaged jewellery into New, Bespoke pieces is a great way to extend your budget and get exactly what you want, at a much lower price, whilst preserving all the intrinsic, sentimental value locked away in pieces which may be of the wrong design or aesthetic. Pieces may be used directly, be part exchanged to off set costs, or simply scrapped to unlock their value. Let us show you a world of choices and possibilities you never knew you had.

M E TA L A N D S T O N E J E W E L L E R S 7 QUEENS CIRCUS

MONTPELLIER STREET

C H E LT E N H A M

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

GL50 1RX

Tel. 01242570570 www.facebook.com/bespoke.goldsmith Metalandstone.co E-mail. metalandstoneuk@aol.com

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

CONTENTS

REGULARS 6 EDITOR’S LETTER

A warm welcome from Claire

8 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions

11 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

51 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer big-day advice

75 COMPETITION Win a minimoon in Provence, France worth up to £1,500

VENUES

13 SPOTLIGHT ON... CHELTENHAM

On the cover

Lisa Jade Photography captured our stunning cover image this issue in a tipi from Fireflower Tipis (http://fireflowertipis.com). It was part of a styled shoot created by a team of talented local wedding suppliers. Turn to page 41 to read all about it and visit www.lisajadephotography.com to see more of Lisa's work.

FEATURES 41 LOVE AL FRESCO

A tipi reception can be enjoyed all year round, think twinkling fairylights, trestle tables topped with foliage runners and rustic-inspired tableware and you get the idea

45 THE CREAM OF THE COTSWOLDS We chat to some of the region’s finest wedding suppliers

Stylish hotel venues

16 DREAM A LITTLE DREAM

48 ON THE MENU Delicious ideas for big-day catering

Fabulous fairytale-inspired venues

80 LOVE IS IN THE AIR County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey

13 3

30 REAL WEDDINGS 19 HAPPY HALLOWEEN

FASHION & BEAUTY 55 FASHION FOCUS

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

56 THE ACCESSORY EDIT Shop something new from our roundup of the latest bridal launches

57 ONCE UPON A TIME Dress dreams come true with this edit of fairytale-inspired gowns

Louise and Karl's October wedding was decorated with black and gold touches

24 A FAMILY AFFAIR Ben and Alun enjoyed a quintessentially English wedding in the heart of the Cotswolds

Chloe and Conor’s big day followed an elegant white and silver colour theme

34 PARTY TIME! Jenny and James’s traditional church ceremony was followed by a marquee reception offering fun for all

70 BE BEAUTIFUL, BE YOU Emolyne Ramloy, found of the eponymous make-up brand, talks inclusivity and bringing a colour boost to your bridal beauty

All the latest best buys and product launches

Idyllic destinations for when you can hop, skip and jump on to a plane again, along with some UK beauties for the ultimate staycation...

78 TOP FIVE ECO RESORTS

Beauty editor Kelly Andrews reveals all the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be

Our local professionals solve your problems

74 GROOMS’ NEWS

76 HONEYMOON NEWS

66 BEAUTY BUZZ

69 FASHION Q&A

From Royal Ascot to The Crown, there's a lot to be inspired by when keeping your big-day look classically British

69 HONEYMOONS

These showstopping dresses feature statement sleeves, perfect for winter weddings

Looking to achieve that oh-so stunning bridal glow for your wedding day? These products can help and team CWM have put them to the test

72 BEST OF BRITISH

30 CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES

63 UNDER WRAPS

68 GLOW UP!

GROOMS

from Sri Lanka

FONTHILL ESTATE

Bake Barn | Quarry Wood | Deer Park Barn

three wedding venues, on one country estate S OUTH W ILTSHIRE

lake | fields | woods

www.fonthill.co.uk photography by www.nicowills.com

EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 Claire Ridley | Editor clairer@county.wedding Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor, Grooms Editor and Travel Editor Kelly Andrews | Senior Editor and Beauty Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding Graphic Designers | Sarah Hill Stephanie Hodder | Vicky O’Connor Production Assistant | Lorna Butcher Digital Marketing Coordinator Katie Laley Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley ADVERTISING Sales & Events Director Sarah Ellis | 01376 538 490 sarahe@county.wedding

Account Managers Ruth Swallow | 01376 538 568 ruths@county.wedding Rebecca Cane | 01376 538 479 rebeccac@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James

Autumn vibes A

s the sun sets on summer, I’ve compiled an action-packed issue for you and it promises to be a great read! I love planning a magazine for this time of year, with autumn and all of its wonderful colours the inspiration for seasonal celebrations. The real wedding of Chloe and Conor caught my eye because of its beautiful barn venue which is an ideal choice for a cosy wedding as the evenings draw in and the temperature drops – turn to page 30 to read all about it. If you’d like to see your special day gracing the pages of Your Glos & Wilts Wedding then please do email me at claire.ridley@countyweddingmagazines.com In this issue, there’s fabulous fashion (which is one of my favourite parts of the job, browsing all of the wonderful bridal dresses that land in my inbox), big-day beauty ideas and honeymoon inspiration (now that we’re allowed to travel again, yay!) So before the build-up to Christmas and New Year, which will be the inspiration behind the next issue, sit back and enjoy the wedding planning journey with me. Until the next issue,

Claire x

Claire Ridley, Editor

I adore this picture of grooms Ben and Alun wearing their personalised face coverings. Their wedding was captured beautifully by Carissa from Capture Every Moment and can be seen in full on page 24.

@YourGlosWiltsWedding

Stylish bridesmaids will love this burgundy-coloured jumpsuit from Cotswolds-based designer Louise Black – turn to page 45 to find out more.

@CWM_YGWW @cwm_wedding Visit us online at county.wedding and countyweddingevents.com Your Glos & Wilts Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Your Glos & Wilts Wedding is published six times a year. Subscription rates are £18.20 per annum (incl. p+p). Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing and sent to Your Glos & Wilts Wedding, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP.

ISSN 2399-4967

cwe C O U N T Y WEDDING E V E N T S

Win a minimoon in Provence, France worth up to £1,500 on page 75.

Statement sleeves are here to stay and this flamboyant style from Halfpenny London doesn’t disappoint! Turn to page 63 to see more wow-factor designs.

EDITOR’S LETTER

How cute is this Mini Meadow idea from Wiltshire-based Fabulous Functions? It’s the perfect way to style an intimate wedding ceremony table. Turn to page 51 to read more ideas from our regional experts.

I was lucky enough to try out one of the new bespoke wedding packages crammed full of goodies from Gloucestershire-based Don’t Buy Her Flowers. Turn to our news section on page eight to read all about them.

If you’re looking to achieve that bridal glow for your wedding then check out these tried and tested products on page 68. The real wedding of Chloe and Conor on page 30 took place at Milton End Farm and was caught on camera by Wiltshire-based Jade Holly Photography.

Tipis are a favourite of mine and our Love al fresco shoot in a structure from Fireflower Tipis on page 41, photographed by Lisa Jade Photography, shows how to style one for a wedding reception.

This fun snap by wedding photographer Lee Hawley screams Halloween to me! Turn to page 19 to see Louise and Karl’s celebration in full. 7

WARNER LEISURE HOTELS LAUNCH MAMAMOON BREAKS Warner Leisure Hotels, which operates 14 adult-only hotels and resorts across the UK including in Wiltshire, has pioneered the Mamamoon getaway to give hard-working mums a break after the wedding when the happy couple jet off on their honeymoon. The wind-down packages have been announced in response to over a third of mothers-of-the-bride reporting that they need a relaxing holiday after the wedding. The Mamamoon breaks include spa access, gin and wine tasting and complimentary breakfast and dinner, as well as stress-busting activities such as yoga and archery. Simon Thompson, managing director of

Warner Leisure Hotels, said, “We wanted to recognise their heroic efforts – being a shoulder to cry on when dates are rearranged, organising table plans with military precision and being the voice of wisdom in the wedding dress shop. It’s certainly not an easy job! That’s why we’ve launched the world’s first ‘Mamamoons’ – a chance for mothers-of-thebride to put their feet up after the wedding and be waited on hand and foot – they deserve it!” Mamamoon packages start from just £199 per person and include bed and breakfast, dinner, swimming pool access, activities and nightly entertainment. To find out more and to book, call 0330 100 9774 or visit www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/breaks/mamamoon.

d e w y l r a Ne NEWS

The latest news from around both counties

EDITOR’S PICK George Hounslow is the owner of Weddings to a T, a small independent business based in Salisbury offering a chauffeur-driven wedding hire service within a 25-mile radius of the city. The beautiful black 1916 Ford Model T tourer can be decorated with ribbons and bows tailored to each theme. To book, visit https://weddings-to-a-t.business.site or call 07753 271 985.

DON’T BUY HER FLOWERS LAUNCHES WEDDING PACKAGES Gloucestershire-based Don’t Buy Her Flowers has recently launched their Wedding Packages that make great big-day gifts for brides, grooms, bridesmaids, mothers and groomsmen. Customers can create their bespoke package containing beauty and skincare products from luxury brands such as Neal’s Yard Remedies, alcoholic beverages including Pol Roger Champagne, White Foil Brut NV (750ml) and a selection of beautiful accessories including a 100% silk eye mask. Highlights for him include an Oud candle and B Skincare Beard Oil, and each package is delivered with a hand-written message. To shop, visit www.dontbuyherflowers.com 8

www.gettyimages.co.uk

YOUR ESSENTIALS

GREENE KING INNS UNVEIL NEW WEDDING TREND Green King Inns, with properties across the UK including in Gloucestershire, has revealed that intimate ceremonies with the couples nearest and dearest are extremely popular following the pandemic. These smaller wedding sizes are causing a shift from choosing traditional venues, as 27 per cent of people would now consider tying the knot in their local pub and more than half (53 per cent) would even consider a micro wedding. Liane Hunt, spokesperson for Greene King Inns said, “The pandemic has caused us to reevaluate many aspects of our lives, and weddings

certainly haven’t escaped this. Thousands of couples have had to delay their celebrations until they have been able to fit everyone in again – but over the last 17 months or so, it appears the wedding goalposts have been moving as people consider downsizing from a Covid-safe perspective, but also to keep costs down.” She continues, “Despite this new lean towards smaller weddings, Greene King Inns offer plenty of places to tie the knot with wedding packages that cater for both large and small affairs. With accommodation, function rooms and even hotels with capacity for larger weddings, should people want to go all out for their big day, they can.” To find out more and to book, visit the website www.greenekinginns.co.uk

WHATLEY MANOR OFFERS PERFECTLY PACKAGED INCLUSIVE BREAKS Five-star hotel Whatley Manor located in Malmesbury, Wiltshire, is offering a range of inclusive mid-week and weekend luxury hotel breaks and spa deals. The Michelin Star Experience offers the perfect opportunity to dine on exceptional dishes created by Michelin-star chef Niall Keating, while the two-night Cotswold Explorer break includes dinner on one night in Grey’s Brasserie and afternoon tea on one day, as well as tickets to Westonbirt, The National Arboretum. To book, visit www.whatleymanor.com

Scan to view video

ROBERT WELCH UNVEIL WEDDING GIFTS The team at Robert Welch, based in the 18th-century Silk Mill in Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, has launched a selection of wedding gifts designed to last a lifetime. From entwining candlesticks to hand-blown champagne flutes and vases, there’s something for everyone. To shop, visit www.robertwelch.com

Weddings to a T GET 15% OFF

If you book before 30th September 2021

We are a small, independent business, oﬀering a chauﬀeur driven wedding hire service, operating a beautiful 1916 Ford Model T tourer in a 25 mile radius of Salisbury, Wiltshire. With many accessories such as the ribbons and bows tailored to your choice, Weddings to a T can make your big day truly unique!

Call: 07753 271985 Email: weddingstoat1916@gmail.com

https://weddings-to-a-t.business.site

L I B BYC L A R K P H OTO G R A P H Y. C O. U K 07835936885 | libby@libbyclarkphotography.co.uk

FREEBIES & OFFERS

GET THE PARTY STARTED

Freebies & OFFERS Take advantage of these great giveaways

The Blue Lion Band are live music experts, wedding enthusiasts and party starters. They’re a premium and versatile group specialising in high-energy, unforgettable music for weddings, festivals, events and private functions at competitive prices. Couples can customise the band for their wedding, picking three to 14 talented musicians who infuse every event with energy and fun and pride themselves on filling the dancefloor. The Blue Lion Band musicians have performed with famous artists including Sir Tom Jones, Ellie Goulding, Kanye West and Alicia Keys and are available to perform at celebrations nationwide. Your Glos & Wilts Wedding has teamed up with the Blue Lion Band to offer readers 50% off when booking a Cocktail Hour Band (with a maximum of three musicians) when they book their party music with the band. To take advantage of this exclusive offer, call 07903 749 499 quoting BLB-CT and to find out more about what they offer for weddings, visit www.bluelionband.co.uk

WIN A BUNDLE OF YANKEE CANDLE® FRAGRANCES WORTH NEARLY £140! Scented candles have the power to change the atmosphere in any room, creating a warm, cosy and calming feel at the flick of a match. Yankee Candle®, the leader in home fragrance known and beloved by fans worldwide, is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a bundle of Original Jar Candles in a selection of favourite fragrances. Including the sophisticated Wedding Day, the sparkling All Is Bright and the enchanting Cherry Blossom in the Original Large Jars, alongside the romantic Fresh Cut Roses, the refreshing Midnight Jasmine and the charming Blush Bouquet in the Original Medium Jars, the bundle is a scented candle lover’s dream. Yankee Candle® has been sharing its passion for fragrance with the world since 1969. It is important that every fragrance launched is true-to-life and realistic to the experience that inspired it, whether that be a flower, food, fruit or place. Made by master chandlers, each candle developed is a complex system of custom blend wax, a unique wick and carefully crafted fragrance. Master perfumers develop Yankee Candle® fragrances for consistent and satisfying performance across all products. Every fragrance is rigorously screened, reviewed and tested by the highly experienced team of fragrance experts to achieve a strong scent and

quality experience and maintain high standards, commitment and craftmanship. All Yankee Candle® Original Jar Candles are made at in-house production facilities in the US and Europe, with quality ingredients from around the world. Check out www.yankeecandle.co.uk

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER VIA OUR WEBSITE. Closing date: 3rd December, 2021 unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions apply. 11

Weddings at

the House

A unique experience for unique couples, seeking something different from the norm. Love comes in many forms, which is why we don’t offer impersonal packages for one of the most personal days of your life.

We are all about weddings with personality, individualism, theatrics and creativity. With 11 individually designed bedrooms, and quirky spaces that can host parties of 15 up to 150 guests, Weddings at the House enables couples to design a day that is authentically them, all under one fabulously stylish roof.

01285 648230 | info@inglesidehouse.co.uk

inglesidehouse.co.uk

Dreamdream

THEMED VENUES

A LITTLE

Fabulous fairytale-inspired venues

Photography of Clearwell Castle courtesy of https://danmorrisphotography.co.uk and www.joelewisphotography.co.uk

CLEARWELL CASTLE, ROYAL FOREST OF DEAN, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This award-winning exclusive-use venue is nestled in 20 acres of picturesque grounds accessed via a sweeping driveway. It’s home to a historic Portcullis, a secluded lake, perfectly striped lawns and donkeys, Molly and Tigger that greet guests on arrival. Ceremonies take place in the Ballroom, a grand, church-like setting featuring a 75-foot long aisle and glittering chandeliers, and outside in the Bandstand with the castle as the backdrop. The wedding breakfast also takes place in the Ballroom for up to 150 guests with a mouth-watering choice of menus available and the opportunity for couples to create their own. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01594 832 320, www.clearwell-castle.co.uk www.facebook.com/clearwellcastleweddingvenue ♥ We love… that the team can work with couples on their very own bespoke cocktail.

ANOTHER OPTION Ingleside is a dramatically different wedding venue based in historic Cirencester, lovingly known as the Capital of the Cotswolds. It’s a Grade II listed property that’s bold and theatrical in design boasting 11 individually designed bedrooms and suites. The cellar is home to the award-winning Téatro Bar & Restaurant serving quality produce and carefully crafted drinks. There’s also The Firepit, for when the sun goes down, a spacious outdoor dining area serving freshly curated food using locally sourced ingredients. Micro weddings for a small group of ten people can be held here,

tailor-made for each couple, along with larger affairs of more than 150 guests in a choice of versatile reception spaces. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01285 648 230, www.inglesidehouse.co.uk www.facebook.com/InglesideHouse ♥ We love… the opportunity to order fresh flowers, chocolates or a bottle of champagne to greet somebody special on arrival into the room. 13

DE VERE TORTWORTH COURT, WOTTON-UNDER-EDGE, GLOUCESTERSHIRE Located in the stunning South Cotswolds in 30 acres of parkland, this Grade 11 listed mansion house hotel and Victorian arboretum marry original features with contemporary style. Surrounded by stunning views of the rolling Gloucestershire hills and landscaped formal gardens, guests are encouraged to borrow a pair of Hunter wellies and explore the estate, which includes one of Britain’s finest arboretums more than 300 different plant and tree specimens. There are also specially commissioned sculptures by the artist Emma Stothard, including hares positioned as the centrepiece of the formal garden and audio tours can be booked. The Leaf Spa is a tranquil spot in which to unwind and guests can also make use of the swimming pool, sauna, and fully equipped gym. For dinner, the 1853 Restaurant & Bar serves a selection of seasonal dishes accompanied by an extensive wine list. In 2018, the property underwent a £20 million restoration where the former stables became bedrooms and the Orangery, which was built in 1899 by the architect Ewan Christian who designed the National Portrait Gallery in London, is now a grand venue for weddings and events. The

ELMORE COURT, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This exclusive-use wedding venue can be seen in all its glory in this behind-the-scenes drone footage taking potential guests on a journey exploring the rural location, the Grade II listed country house and the Gillyflower ballroom, with the final shot taken in the grand ceremonial hall. Recent developments have seen the walled garden that forms part of the estate having been restored to its original use as a working-produce garden and dishes prepared by head chef Matt Greene use ingredients sourced straight from it. Ceremonies take place in a variety of areas in the main house including in the hall. Dinner and dancing are enjoyed in The Gillyflower, a romantic event space in a separate building located in the grounds draped in fairylights that’s home to a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01452 720 293, www.elmorecourt.com www.facebook.com/elmorecourt ♥ We love… the themed events that the Elmore Court team regularly host. 14

hotel grounds also feature a beautiful magnolia tree of such botanical importance that it was granted special protection. During the restoration, the original paths in the garden were cleared and a pet cemetery was revealed, which remains within the grounds today. Ceremonies take place in a variety of areas including The Orangery featuring an ornamental glass ceiling and an outdoor dining area for up to 100 loved ones. The Westminster Suite, with its floor-to-ceiling windows boasting panoramic views, is best suited to larger parties of up to 280 guests and there’s also the Victoria Suite, ideal for intimate celebrations and micro weddings. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01454 263 000, www.devere.co.uk/tortworth-court www.facebook.com/DeVereHotels ♥ We love… that the hotel even has a resident cat, Lady Grey! She’s a British shorthair who is often spotted roaming the hotel or sunbathing in the grounds.

Scam to view video

THEMED VENUES

Image of the interior courtesy of www.facebook.com/watwweddings

THE SPEECH HOUSE HOTEL, COLEFORD, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This former 17th-century hunting lodge is set in the heart of the idyllic Royal Forest of Dean combining period charm with modern hotel and purpose-built wedding venue facilities. The manicured garden area provides a much-photographed stag statue for photo opportunities. The hotel borders the 15-acre Speech House field that can be hired for wedding games adjacent to the ancient forest surrounding the hotel and there’s also the Speech House lake close by. Verderers’ Court, the historic court room, provides a traditional setting for any celebration for between 50 and 70 guests. It’s steeped in history, from the hand-carved chairs to the open fireplace and beamed ceiling. The Edwin Tauber Suite overlooking the Speech House field and the ancient woodland beyond is a picture-perfect setting for a party. The large bi-fold doors open out on to a covered terrace that leads to the hotel garden and beyond to the Speech House field. This spacious and light purpose-built function suite has a bar and reception area offering plenty of space for up to 150 guests seated at dinner and dancing for up to 200 people. The ceremony can take place outdoors under the sheltered terrace with guests looking on. The suite can be laid out traditionally with everyone seated at round tables or, for a more contemporary feel, long rustic banquet tables can be positioned in this flexible space. The Carolean Room is named after the era of King Charles II and is ideal for smaller parties of up to 25 guests. This charming room is situated

ANOTHER OPTION The Stones Hotel in Salisbury, Wiltshire is a versatile venue hosting intimate weddings for up to 50 guests or more lavish affairs for 250 loved ones. A selection of elegant suites, mouth-watering menus and luxury accommodation complete with rainfall showers and organic toiletries are ready to welcome wedding guests. An Executive Room is available for the night before the wedding, complete with room service and breakfast the following morning, as part of the Bridal Suite Package. Ceremonies take place in The Equinox Suite, perfect for micro weddings and small receptions. Guests will love the gin bar serving a wide selection of spirits, plus the private outdoor terrace for al fresco celebrations.

in the main part of the hotel and is decorated in a traditional country house style. The Orangery is a light and airy garden room available to hire exclusively for post-wedding drinks and canapés or as an extra space for the wedding party. It opens out on to a pretty garden and can be hired alongside the Edwin Tauber Suite, Verderers’ Court or The Carolean Room. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01594 822 607, https://thespeechhouse.co.uk ♥ We love… the various wedding packages on offer.

The Solstice Suite is a self-contained area equipped with a foyer, cloakroom, bar, kitchen, toilets and has access to the terrace. Ivory drapes divide the room into a ceremony space and after, a larger area for the wedding breakfast and reception. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01722 782 020, https://thestoneshotel.co.uk www.facebook.com/thestoneshotel ♥ We love… the talented team of chefs working with couples to tailor-make a menu best suited to them. The venue is family friendly and happy to provide smaller portions for children at a reduced cost. 15

Spotlight on...

CHELTENHAM Stylish hotel venues

QUEENS HOTEL CHELTENHAM This hotel originally opened in 1838 commanding a prime position on what is now one of Cheltenham’s most charming Georgian streets. It’s suitably placed for guests to explore the cultural delights that the city has to offer along with its variety of parks including Sandford Park, Pittville Park and Imperial Gardens located just a short walk away. Having previously welcomed the world’s greatest writers and thinkers, the Cheltenham Literature Festival is making this spa town the place to be this autumn. Celebrate one year of opening at the hotel’s restaurant Victoria’s that served its first guests last autumn. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding countryside and farmland, the restaurant works closely with local producers and farmers to create much-loved classic dishes with a contemporary twist. Weddings take place in the Regency Suite for up to 120 loved ones with its floor-to-ceiling arched windows and golden chandeliers. The hotel’s latest offering is perfect for newlyweds with the Escape and Stay package available to book from the 1st October 2021 from £143 inclusive of breakfast, accommodation, afternoon tea, tickets for an activity for two and car parking (subject to availability). Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01242 514 754, https://queenshotelcheltenham.co.uk ♥ We love... the iconic listed staircase perfect for big-day photographs

REGIONAL VENUES

THE GREENWAY HOTEL AND SPA This 16th-century Elizabethan manor house is home to 21 elegant bedrooms and suites set in eight acres of stunning grounds enjoying views of the surrounding rolling countryside. The luxurious country house hotel that’s 4 AA Red Star-rated offers the indulgent Elan spa, ideal for a pre-wedding pamper, a relaxing Spa Cafe and 3AA Rosette fine dining in the Garden Room Restaurant. Weddings take place for up to 60 loved ones seated at dinner and 120 evening guests. Marquee weddings are also available and exclusive use can be booked. The intimate wedding packages are aimed at micro celebrations with two to 14 guests gathered in The Austen Room. Up to 50 people can enjoy The Panel Room for a slightly larger wedding, with both of these spaces offering views of the garden, and the big wedding packages accommodate up to 150 guests. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01242 862 352, www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com ♥ We love... the gift vouchers for use in the Elan spa – a great way to thank the bridal party.

ANOTHER OPTION DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham is nestled on the edge of Lilley Brook Golf Course just two miles from the city centre marrying contemporary luxury with a Georgian aesthetic. It’s home to the Lake 53 restaurant boasting views of the grounds, a spa offering an extensive treatment menu and a fitness centre. Weddings take place in the Park Suite that opens on to a private patio and also in the Garden Room that features a fireplace and crystal chandeliers. In total, up to 250 guests can be accommodated. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 0330 021 5902, www.hilton.com/en/hotels/glochdi-doubletree-cheltenham www.facebook.com/weddingsatdoubletreecheltenham ♥ We love... that custom-made menus can be created.

Aimee Thomas Photography W E D D I N G S | E V E N T S | FA M I L I E S

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Halloween

HAPPY

REAL WEDDINGS

Louise and Karl’s October wedding was decorated with black and gold touches Images courtesy of Lee Hawley Photography

Louise Mills married Karl Schramm on 31st October 2020 at Chippenham Registration Office following by a reception at The Angel Hotel Chippenham.

ouise and Karl attended the same primary school but became friends in secondary school. “We had joint interests and friends,” Louise tells us. “We went our separate ways to attend university but after I graduated, I spent a year at home recovering from a long-term illness and Karl visited me every day, even though he was still in his final year.” The couple had spoken about marriage early on in their

relationship. “I was adamant that we couldn’t get engaged until we owned our own home,” Louise says. “Karl proposed on the doorstep of our house the day we picked up the keys! I was gobsmacked and so emotional that I closed the door on him! Once I’d calmed down, I insisted he get back down on one knee because I hadn’t had a chance to fully take it in!” Here, Louise tells us about their Halloween-themed wedding. 19

The weather was perfect for our late-autumn wedding, allowing us to have photos taken in the courtyard.

The Wessex Room at Chippenham Registration Office provided a beautiful alternative setting when we had to change our plans because of the pandemic. We were allowed ten guests for the ceremony which was ideal for me because I had felt anxious about having to say our vows in front of lots of people.

Our reception was held in The Angel Hotel Chippenham where the staff were fantastic, especially considering that our celebration had to be rearranged. We were so happy in the company of our loved ones after months of isolation.

Our favours were gold and black hand-crafted pottery pieces in the shape of jack-o’-lanterns made by my mum that worked well as candle holders.

Our photographer, Lee, brought our Halloween and gothic theme to life with our couple portraits taken in the nearby churchyard at dusk. He provided pumpkins and props and helped us create some stunning, spooky shots!

We chose two different local florists to create my bouquet brimming with black calla lilies, red roses, ivy and eucalyptus. Our bridesmaids held small bouquets of black calla lilies and our family wore red rose corsages. We also had two buttonholes made using black calla lilies that we pinned on a portrait of my late father and Karl’s late grandfather. We also had their portraits displayed in the registration office as we said our vows.

REAL WEDDINGS

We had three tables arranged in Covid-safe bubbles. The team at the hotel sourced black table cloths, napkins and chair covers to fit with our theme.

Karl’s nan made our lemon drizzle cake decorated with Halloween-themed sweets. Karl arranged the cake toppers as a surprise for me - he chose two velociraptors in a top hat and veil inspired by our love of Jurassic Park.

For our centrepieces, we had white leafless trees on each table with miniature potion bottles hanging from them holding a plaque showing the table names. Small glass pumpkin vases containing silk flowers were placed with them. We named each table of family members after our childhood pets, Karl’s cat Knuckles and my dog, Buster, and our top table was called George after our very spoilt cat!

We decorated the walls with ivy and also had a ‘gone but not forgotten’ table filled with portraits of our loved ones who are no longer with us. We displayed a chalkboard sign and helium-filled balloons plus a selection of fun Halloween decorations.

“I got to marry the most gorgeous, kind and patient man and he got to marry me, and I’m hilarious!” − Louise The team at the hotel arranged a prosecco cream tea for our wedding breakfast at 3 pm followed by dinner later in the evening that all tasted delicious.

I wore a tiara, veil and a pair of sparkly T-bar sandals and I accessorised my bouquet with a locket that I was given on my 18th birthday holding a photograph of my dad with my brother and me.

I wore the dress called Ettia by Maggie Sottero that had a champagne slip under a mesh beaded overlay dress. The elegant cap sleeves added some 1920s glamour.

Karl wore a black suit jacket with red flowers and a black tie with a skull print. The male bridal party had green ties featuring a dinosaur pattern.

TOP TIP: Decide if your priority is getting married or having the perfect day. We knew we’d happily get married anywhere, so weren’t too disappointed about delaying our celebration by a year.

My maid-of-honour was Karl’s sister Emmy who wore a black and gold floor-length gown with a black faux-fur shrug and black mesh and feather fascinator. She also had a face covering with reversible gold and black sequins!

We celebrated during the evening with sparklers.

THE DREAM TEAM Photographer, Lee Hawley Photography, 07540 894 286, www.leehawleyphotography.com | Ceremony venue, Chippenham Registration Office, 0300 003 4570, www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/2544/Chippenham-Registration-Office | Reception venue, The Angel Hotel Chippenham, 01249 652 615, www.angel-hotel-chippenham.com | Bride’s dress, Still White, www.stillwhite.com Tiara Howling Moon UK, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/HowlingMoonUK | Hair and make-up, Hepcats Barbershop & Beauty Parlour, 01249 650 936, www.facebook.com/HepcatsChippenham | Nails and nail art, Tammy at Allure Beauty, 01380 727 493, http://allurebeautydevizes.weebly.com | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Boohoo, www.boohoo.com | Groom’s suit, Twisted Tailor, 020 7112 8672, www.twistedtailor.com | Cake, Jelly Cake, 07881 581 434, www.jellycake.co.uk | Bridal bouquet and thank you bouquets, Sarah Lax Floral corsages and buttonholes, Simply Flowers Wiltshire, 01249 819 105, https://simplyflowerswiltshire.com 22

Bowerchalke Barn is a timeless 16th century thatched threshing barn, set in the stunning Chalke Valley countryside and only 10 miles from the medieval market city of Salisbury. The Barn offers a unique and enchanting setting for your wedding or event, where you have exclusive use of the barn and grounds for your guest to relax and enjoy the day. For more information and pricing do contact the Bowerchalke Barn team.

GET IN TOUCH TODAY! Bowerchalke Barn, Knowle Farm, Bowerchalke, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP5 5BP T: 01722 445 120 | E: enquiries@bowerchalkebarn.com | W: www.bowerchalkebarn.com

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Transforming Vintage For The Style Led Bride Original Vintage Wedding Dresses Refit + Redesign + Bespoke Embroidery & Embellishment Services Visit Sophie, Head Designer & Founder of A Lover’s Thread for a virtual or in person appointment at her Hitchin, Hertfordshire Home Bridal Studio

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A family affair

Ben and Alun enjoyed a quintessentially English wedding in the heart of the Cotswolds decorated with a summer colour palette Images courtesy of Capture Every Moment

Alun Owen married Benjamin (Ben) Truscott on 10th July 2021 at The Swan in Bibury, Gloucestershire.

24 24

REAL WEDDINGS

lun and Ben met online. “We started chatting on a Saturday afternoon and decided to meet for a drink the day after. We wondered why there were so many couples out, both forgetting that it was Valentine’s Day!” they tell us. “The first thing that attracted me to Ben was that on our first date, I paid him a compliment and he accepted it,” Alun says. “I enjoyed how talkative and confident Alun was, he made the conversation seem effortless,” adds Ben. The couple became engaged during a weekend away in the Lake District. “I knew that I was going to propose somewhere in the area,” Alun tells us. “Early on the Saturday morning, I suggested that we go for a walk near one of the lakes hoping that I would find the right spot to get down on one knee. I found the perfect place overlooking the lake and popped the question. Ben seemed a bit shocked and responded by reaching into his jacket and revealing a ring box because he had also planned to propose on the same weekend! I beat him to it by about 20 minutes because he was going to ask me to marry him on the old

REAL WEDDINGS

wooden pier. Neither of us knew that the other was going to propose however a close friend of ours had known for about three months and had managed to keep it a secret!”

SETTING THE SCENE The couple chose The Swan hotel in Bibury as their ceremony and reception venue. “It had so much character and was completely different from the other venues that we had viewed,” Alun and Ben tell us. “There was a homely feel about the place and from our first visit, all of the staff were amazing. We loved the idea of holding our ceremony outside in the garden with the river flowing in the background.” After weeks of flicking through wedding magazines, the couple were unable to decide on a colour theme but both knew that they wanted wildflowers to be incorporated into their day. “We wanted splashes of colour but nothing too bright,” they explain. “Because we got married during the middle of July, we were optimistic about the weather and provided all of our guests with a colourful fan and a packet of wildflower seeds to sow in their gardens as favours, plus a small box of petal confetti. We were also keen to avoid the use of plastic wherever possible so our table decorations were made from paper, cardboard, string and wood.” The couple’s table plan was an upcycled blackboard draped in fairylights lent to them by a friend. “We decorated it with sweet peas picked from our garden,” they tell us. “We handmade our place names, table names and table plan, plus other stationery, using recycled cards.” Alun and Ben’s cake was based around a design that they saw on Pinterest. “It was a three-tier cake with white icing, a personalised cake topper and a colourful splash twisting around it to match our wedding outfits.”

LOOKING THE PART Alun wore a raspberry suit while Ben chose a blue one. The groomsman wore a grey suit and the two ‘bros-maids’ wore red dresses that matched Ben’s tie. “They chose their outfits with one wearing a 1950s-style look and the other in a floor-length gown,” the couple describes. “We wanted them to feel relaxed and comfortable.

TIME TO ENTERTAIN Alun and Ben’s 18-month old miniature dachshund called Pickle was there for the entire day. “She was particularly vocal during the ceremony and at one point, Ben went over to calm her down before we could continue with the service,” Alun explains. “Pickle wasn’t pleased to be missing out on the first dance either so ended up being held between us during the end of the song! Also, due to travel restrictions in place at the time, we were sad that one of our groomsmen, who lives in Singapore, was unable to attend our wedding in person but he was able to give a joint groomsman speech via Skype.” 27

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good times

REAL WEDDINGS

CELEBRATE

Chloe and Conor’s big day followed an elegant white and silver colour theme Images courtesy of Jade Holly Photography

Chloe and Conor Elliot married on 29th May 2021 at Milton End Farm in Arlingham, Gloucestershire.

hloe and Conor met at school 10 years ago and became good friends which eventually turned into something more. “We never thought that our relationship would become as serious as it did,” the couple tells us. They became engaged when Conor proposed in Tenby, Wales. “We had booked a weekend away and I had given up on waiting for a ring by this stage!” Chloe explains. “I was getting annoyed with Conor because I was five months pregnant and feeling sick, and he was making me walk further up a peak to admire the view. Once we reached the top, we sat on a bench for ages and he kept fidgeting so I was about to leave to walk to the car when he suddenly got down on one knee and proposed to me! It was a complete surprise and this location will always be a special place for us - we can’t wait to take our little boy there!” Here, Chloe tells us about their beautiful barn wedding at Milton End Farm decorated with a sophisticated white and silver theme...

REAL WEDDINGS

The venue is owned by a friend’s family and I always knew that I wanted to get married in a barn. It wasn’t too far from home and when we went to view it, it was still a work in progress but we both fell in love with it and knew that we had to get married there. Everything about the barn is beautiful and timeless. I loved getting ready on the morning of the wedding and having my hair and make-up done.

s was a wonderful

g mor ning with my best girl Cheers! Spending the weddin memory that I’ll never forget.

It felt so specia

l having all of

our loved ones gathered around to watch us say our vows.

My grandad, w ho is 90 years of age, walked carr ying our ba me down the ai by son which w sle with me as a memor y th at I’ll treasure forever.

es to enjoy!

We gave our guests confetti con

While we didn’t have a table plan because of hosting a small, intimate wedding with six tables, our statement centrepieces were large silver candelabras draped with white flowers and foliage to match my bouquet and the rest of our floral arrangements. We numbered our tables one to six using wooden designs and our place names were acrylic hexagon shapes with each name printed on that coordinated with the personalised cake topper.

y bottles filled with glitter Our favours were glass . pear drop-flavoured gin

Our delicious cake was made by my bridesmaid’s mum, wedding guest. W Karen, who was e chose a three-tier also a na ked cake with Victo and lemon and bla ria sponge, chocola ckcurrant-flavoured te layers finished wi th white buttercrea It was decorated m icing. with flowers and a personalised top per.

rse enjoyed h the starter and the main cou We had a three-course meal wit loved the sts gue r Ou canapés served outside. seated followed by the dessert s. rrie ed strawbe profiteroles and chocolate-cover 32

“Conor arrived on the day in his white Volkswagen Polo which was styled with bows and parked pride of place!” Chloe and Conor

I chose white flowe r varieties mixed with foliage. Pamp grass was incorpor as ated into some of the displays and we had gypsophila dr aped from the beam s and also on the chairs lining the ai sle.

e so I chose was trimmed with lac The train on my dress ign. l with a similar lace des a Cathedral-length vei

I kept my accesso ries to a minimum and just wore a pair of diamond and pearl earring s to complement m new diamond-encr y usted wedding ba nd that matched m y engagement ring.

I wore an ivory figure-hugging dress that I had altered. It featured lace and crystals around the corset and a stunning low back. I didn’t think that I would choose a dress like this but when I tried it on, I felt like a bride.

REAL WEDDINGS

Our groomsmen had matching suits to Conor’s but instead of wearing a waistcoat, they had black braces so that Conor stood out.

suit y slim-fit, three-piece Conor wore a dark-gre a ket watch and bow tie, teamed with a black poc of black shoes. white shirt and a pair

a pair of champagneI finished my look with ted sandals. coloured, pearl-encrus

ssages a presentation with me Our maid-of-honour did attend. of who were unable to from loved ones, some which I was ne footage of the day This also included dro t was brilliant! unaware was taken tha

We had three brid esmaids and my ma id-of-honour who pink dresses featu all wore the same ring a cowl neck blush they all looked so beautiful!

Because of the res trictions in place at the time of our wedding, we didn ’t book any live en tertainment. Every was well acquaint one ed with one anoth er and so happy to be out that they mi ngled in the courtya rd enjoying an al fresco drinks recep tion with a sound system providing music which made the our day feel even more intimate. W did perform our fir e st dance which fel t magical.

father an our best man, Conor’s The speeches given by wonderful. my grandmother were

Scan to view video

www.creativedepictionstud

io.co.uk

Party time! Jenny and James’s traditional church ceremony was followed by a marquee reception offering fun for all Images courtesy of Daniella Marinos Photography

Jenny Vaughan married James Harriss on 3rd July 2021 at St. Luke’s Church in Frampton Mansell, Gloucestershire followed by a marquee reception at Aston Down Airfield. 34 34

enny and James met through mutual friends sixteen years ago. “Four months after meeting one another, I moved into the same street as Jenny by chance,” James tells us. “We dated for a short while before moving in together. My sense of humour was obviously the attraction!” The couple became engaged during a surprise proposal over dinner. “I asked Jenny to marry me on her 30th birthday,” James tells us. “We ended up tying the knot a few yards away from where I proposed!”

REAL WEDDINGS

SETTING THE SCENE “The church where we said our vows is stunning!” The couple tells us. “It’s so tiny and quaint, overlooking one of the five Golden Valleys in Stroud. We decided on a marquee reception to celebrate with our loved ones complete with a children’s annexe full of fun activities.” The couple styled their reception with plenty of creative touches. “Our table plan was pretty pots of lavender with multiple name sticks placed in each one,” they describe. “Every pot had the table number written on it and on each table was an embroidered number displayed in oval frames.” They chose Stephen King books, empty gin bottles filled with LED fairylights and teacups brimming with lavender as their centrepieces. “Our favours were bottles of homemade sloe gin and blackberry jam that finished each setting perfectly.” The couple chose a four-tier wedding cake with the top layer being a fruit cake, the second one a carrot cake,

Daniella Marinos Photography BEAUTIFUL ELEGANT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

CLASSIC, PREMIUM, DELUXE & B E S P O K E PA C K A G E S A VA I L A B L E Professional, natural documentary style photography to capture those special moments on your big day. Call: 01453 297528 or 07720 230977 Email: info@daniellamarinosphotography.com

www.daniellamarinosphotography.com

1 8 C A ST L E ST R E E T, C I R E N C E ST E R , G LO S, G L7 1Q H

01285656994 | 07709244470 donna@posyandpearl.co.uk | www.posyandpearl.co.uk

For further wed-spiration and to keep up to date with the latest news and trends check out our County Wedding Magazines’ Facebook page

What’s more, our editors are on hand to help brides-to-be with all their planning problems: • Ask us anything, whether you’re on the hunt for a local venue or simply looking for ideas and advice • Find local suppliers • Top planning tips from the pros • Tell us about your big day for your chance to appear in the magazine • Special subscription offers • Win wedding essentials with our exclusive giveaways and competitions

Oh and don’t forget... Follow us on Instagram: @cwm_wedding County Wedding Magazines

REAL WEDDINGS

the third a lemon-flavoured layer and the bottom tier chocolate and Guinness flavour. “We treated our guests to a hog roast as well as a DIY afternoon tea where they could help themselves to scones, cakes, tea and coffee and a sweetie table featuring 20 different varieties!” they tell us. “The entire day was wonderful and went by so quickly.”

LOOKING THE PART The couple’s colour choices for their bridal party was based on their theme. “Jenny had a clear idea of what she wanted,” James tells us. “Our groomsmen wore dark blue suits, the same as mine, teamed with blue waistcoats and dusky pink ties and pocket squares. I opted for a grey waistcoat to stand out. Our bridesmaids wore full-length grey dresses while our adorable flowergirls wore pretty ivory and pink dresses with a satin ribbon and roses. Jenny looked fantastic in her lace dress that she teamed with earrings, a hair comb and a bright colourful bouquet that matching my buttonhole.”

TIME TO ENTERTAIN Jenny and James hired a comedian to perform during the evening, amusing their guests by telling jokes that had everyone in stitches. “We also had garden games for our loved ones to enjoy and hired a DJ to get everyone up and dancing which was fantastic,” James tells us. “I tore my ankle ligaments just seconds before we were about to perform our first dance! I still managed it though (but had to visit A&E the following day!)

“We hired a private coach to transport our guests to the church, and a stunning Imperial 3 wedding car to take us. The drive from the church to the marquee venue was a particular highlight because it allowed us some time to reflect on our ceremony. It was also the most amount of time that we got to spend together for the rest of the day!” − Jenny and James

“Our best man is a school teacher and a pupil in his school was diagnosed with Covid-19 just eight days before our big day meaning that he had to isolate. We live-streamed his speech on a large television screen displayed at the front of the marquee and placed a webcam on top so that we could have two-way conversations with him all day. We even sent him food and alcohol beforehand to help him celebrate with us on the day.” – Jenny and James

THE DREAM TEAM Photographer, Daniella Marinos Photography, www.daniellamarinosphotography.com | Ceremony venue, St Lukes Church https://thamesheadchurches.org.uk/our-churches/frampton-mansell | Reception venue, Elegant Marquees, 01453 885 058 https://elegantmarquees.co.uk | Bride’s dress, The Dressing Room Bridal and Occasion Wear, 07714 503 693, www.the-dressingroom.co.uk Bride’s accessories, Next, www.next.co.uk | Groom’s suit, Slater Menswear (Cheltenham branch), 01242 224 494, www.slaters.co.uk Cake, Confetti Cakes Celebration Cakes, 01684 297 220, www.confetticakes.co.uk | Flowers, The Lily Pad Florist, 01453 840 900 https://thelilypadflorist.co.uk | Transport, Function Cars, 01793 770 323, www.functioncars.co.uk | Entertainment, Doubletops Roadshow, 07531 966 801, www.facebook.com/doubletops.roadshow | Catering, The Spitting Pig Co., 0800 587 5899, www.spittingpig.co.uk 38

WWW.THE-DRESSINGROOM.CO.UK vicky@the-dressingroom.co.uk | 07714503693 | Instagram - thedressingroom.stroud | Facebook - thedressingroom.stroud

Colour ful, natural photography for your wedding

U N I Q U E A N D ST U N N I N G T I P I H I R E for weddings and events in the Cotswolds and throughout the UK.

W W W. F I R E F LO W E R T I P I S . C O M Hello@fireflowertipis.com | 07814684424

www.capturethismoment.co.uk k athryn@capturethismoment.co.uk | 078 16 4 7 7243

For further wed-spiration and to keep up to date with the latest news and trends check out our County Wedding Magazines’ Twitter page

Oh and don’t forget... Follow us on Instagram: @cwm_wedding

@CountyWeddings

Loveal fresco REGIONAL INSPIRATION

A tipi reception can be enjoyed all year round, think twinkling fairylights, trestle tables topped with foliage runners and rusticinspired tableware and you get the idea. During summer, the space just outside provides the option of a firepit, horsebox cocktail bar, comfy seating and giant illuminated letters Images courtesy of Lisa Jade Photography

REGIONAL INSPIRATION

WEDDING CAR -

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Immaculate Rolls Royce Silver Spur available to hire

WEDDINGS • PROMS SPECIAL OCCASIONS Featuring blue leather interior. Price includes a bottle of Champagne for the happy couple and decorative flowers of your choice to match your theme

Call Carl on 07886 930 923 or 01594 530 835 - Email prospect_cottage@tiscali.co.uk

www.facebook.com/bluebell2468

Long established townhouse boutique in the centre of Cheltenham, relaxed surroundings in which to try beautiful gowns from world recognised designers. Call / email to book for Appointment.

01242 224965 jane@weddingdaysofcheltenham.co.uk weddingdays31 Wedding Days of Cheltenham 31 Cambray Place | Cheltenham | GL50 1JP

To advertise here call sales on 01376 514 000 or visit yourgloswilts.wedding

Please mention “Your Glos & Wilts Wedding” when calling advertisers

LOCAL INSPIRATION

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Cream Cotswolds OF THE

We reveal what’s new and trending

RETRO WHEELS

HONEYMOON AND HAMPERS Luxury Cotswold Rentals, the go-to company for holiday lettings in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with more than 70 properties on offer, is delighted to announce a new and exclusive partnership with award-winning farm shop Daylesford Organic. For new bookings made for holidays taken until 6th December 2021, guests staying in a home with Luxury Cotswolds Rentals will receive one of Daylesford Organic’s new seasonal hampers. There’s a selection of four farmhouse hampers to choose from Wellness, Family, Foodie and Le Loubé. Each one contains a bumper selection of food and drink products made by hand on the organic farm, as well as a few fun treats from further afield. Products include rose, red and white wine, freshly baked seeded sourdough, local chutneys and compotes, a special cheese box, olives, black truffle and organic pasta. The Wellness hamper, available for bookings over £5,000, features a selection of Bamford hand lotions and candles while the Family Hamper contains games and activities for children including a nature activity book. Each hamper is carefully packed in a white wicker basket with leather straps or in a wooden crate that can be reused. Book: 020 7993 6545, www.luxurycotswoldrentals.co.uk

Jenni Wood, owner of Milbury Morris Minors based in Wotton-underEdge, Gloucestershire reveals how couples have recently been asking for old-fashion style cans to be tied to the back of the vehicles. “I supply and personalise these,” Jenni tells us. “They’re great for rustic-inspired weddings. My hand-painted Just Married vintage suitcase is also a big hit, along with pretty bunting, and let’s not forget my Morris Traveller called Hazel which looks fabulous topped with a fresh flower garland, perfect for the mother-of-the-bride and bridesmaids to travel in.” Book: 07918 147 701, www.milburymorrisminors.com

IN OTHER NEWS... Award-winning event specialists Fluffy Puffin based in Foxham, Wiltshire have launched their Local Artisans Christmas Hampers packed with beautiful, eco-friendly treats from a hand-picked selection of 13 local artisan suppliers. There’s sparkling wine, smoked salmon, waxed cheddar, scented soy wax candle, brownies and chutney among other products and they’re priced at an affordable £70 each. Book: 01249 814 088, www.fluffypuffin.com 45

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QUALITY STATIONERY

DRESSING THE BEST GIRLS Stylish bridesmaids will love Cotswolds-based luxury womenswear designer Louise Black’s jumpsuits like this stylish burgundy style from her new occasion wear collection. Book: www.louiseblack.co.uk

Design a memorable wedding gift with British stationery company The Ink Pot’s latest offering. There’s a range of hand-stamped notebooks and journals allowing guests to make thoughtful gifts for couples getting married, thanks to a four-step customisation process. Add a name, nickname, initials or a favourite motif and choose a journal from a wide range of sizes, colours, and paper types. There’s also a choice of five foil colour options and gift boxes. Book: www.theinkpot.biz

BEST-DRESSED BRIDES Jane Fishwick is the owner of Wedding Days of Cheltenham located in Gloucestershire, a two-floor treasure trove stocking designer wedding dresses, bridesmaids’ gowns and men’s suits. Book: 01242 224 965, www.weddingdaysofcheltenham.co.uk

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TALENTED SNAPPER

Along with her father, Carissa Jones is the expert photographer behind Capture Every Moment based in Cirencester, Gloucestershire. Together, they photograph weddings throughout the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, offering their couples outstanding pictures to cherish. Turn to page 30 to see their real wedding of Ben and Alun that took place at The Swan in Bibury with their couple portraits caught on camera at the famous Arlington Row. Book: www.captureeverymoment.co.uk

Milbury M o rri s M i n o rs

Looking for vintage chic, glamour and style? The Morris Minor brings smiles at every turn, great photo opportunities, romantic and fun. Perfect for your English Country or City wedding in The Cotswolds, Bath, Bristol, Gloucestershire and North Somerset. Milbury Morris Minors is a family business, we are passionate about these beautiful vintage cars, who have been part of our family for many years.

Weddings - Up-dos - Special Occasions Hair-styling - Makeup

www.milburymorrisminors.com We offer a friendly, professional wedding service, sharing our love of these fun cars with you on your special day.

julietdraperhair www.julietdraper.co.uk

Wedding Photography throughout the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and surrounding areas.

T: 07521 611 678 | Email: hello@captureeverymoment.co.uk Website: www.captureeverymoment.co.uk

the menu

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WHAT’S ON

We reveal new ideas for weddings WHAT A FEAST

Caterers throughout both regions are now seeing a demand for their feasting menus because they’re informal and communal. Presented on large wooden platters displayed on each table, guests can pick what they want, from artisan bread and olives to cheese, hummus and continental meats. It’s a great idea for a festival-style wedding held in a marquee or tipi where couples can worry less about table plans and embrace the more casual eating experience sat at trestle tables or outside on hay bales.

Try:

Berry Blue Creative Food 01453 790 669, http://berry-blue.co.uk www.facebook.com/berryblueevents

COOL CANAPÉS

Canapés are popular with the trend for smaller micro weddings, allowing guests to mingle while they eat. The key is to choose filling varieties made using fresh local produce.

Try:

Vanilla Catering 01489 589 275,www.vanillacatering.co.uk www.facebook.com/vanillacateringandevents

INFORMAL EVENING FOOD

Caroline’s Little Kitchen has introduced a smoked salmon, cream cheese, rocket and lemon crepe to their mouth-watering menu plus a duck with hoisin sauce, cucumber and spring onion mix and spinach, pesto, creme fraiche and cheese choices.

Orchard Catering offer Mario for weddings, an Italian pizza car serving wood-fired pizzas that always go down a treat with a choice of delicious toppings including ham and pineapple, chicken and sweetcorn and mixed vegetables prepared by Italian chef Francesco.

Try: 07919 440 146, www.clk.org.uk

Try: 01684 438 210, www.orchardcatering.co.uk

SAVOURY AND SWEET CREPES

www.facebook.com/Carolines-Little-Kitchen-129898807860731

www.facebook.com/orchardcatering

OTHER IDEAS ❤ Bowl food ❤ Soup stations ❤ Pork pies and pasties ❤ Sausage and mash ❤ Oyster bar ❤ Sushi bar ❤ Taco and nacho stations ❤ Fish and chips

DRINK UP SAY CHEESE Paxton & Whitfield, the UK’s oldest cheesemonger, has released a new collection of celebration cheese cakes. From a miniature one to a large design feeding up to 100 guests, they make a delicious alternative to traditional wedding cakes. Each one is made up of a carefully selected range of artisan cheeses to not only create a striking centrepiece but also an appetizing medley of varieties to enjoy once the cake is cut.

Try: 01451 823 460, www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk

Couples planning their weddings should look at buying British wine and drink brands instead of importing them from abroad. With plenty of English vineyards located in the south of the UK, finding premium wines in the budget is possible. Gin is still in and this trending alcoholic beverage comes in a variety of flavours. Cocktails have never gone out of fashion and couples can even add foraged cocktails to their drinks menu with wild berries, elderflower, red clover and honeysuckle all key ingredients. Pop-up prosecco bars, beer wagons and champagne vans are fun alternatives as well as horsebox bars.

Try: South West Bar Hire, 07507 598 067, www.southwestbarhire.co.uk www.facebook.com/southwestbarhire.co.uk

www.facebook.com/PaxtonsCheese

ICE ICE BABY Who says ice cream is only for summer weddings? It makes the ideal big-day treat for celebrations in all seasons. Directors of Fluffy Puffin, Jessica and Chris Wooldridge tell us how their interactive bespoke ice cream bar, glow-in-the-dark set-ups and their new classic Pashley tricycles are a hit. “Our Autumn menus have a strong emphasis on set dessert menus focusing around ice cream as the main event,” they describe. “This was inspired by the ever-increasing popularity of bowl food and street food service at weddings. An example menu is lemon meringue pie, chocolate brownie and espresso martini ice cream flavours.

Try: 07791 756 559, www.fluffypuffin.com www.facebook.com/fluffypuffin2017

GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF Cake Daydreams based in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire is seeing dessert tables becoming increasingly popular as couples opt to have these in addition to their cake. OTHER Treats such as brownies and cupcakes IDEAS TO TRY sit well alongside the ever-popular ❤ Strawberries and cream semi-naked cakes. ❤ Cookie bar ❤ Popcorn station 01242 461 901, ❤ Toasted marshmallows www.cakedaydreams.co.uk ❤ Doughnut wall www.facebook.com/CakeDaydreams

Try:

www.gettyimages.co.uk

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SOUTHERN ENTERPRISE AWARDS 2020

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Kitchen

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County Weddings

EXPERT ADVICE

HOT TOPIC

Our experts answer your big-day questions

A BESPOKE BIG DAY

Meet the expert: Mikayla Ballard-Kearns is a professional celebrant and qualified wedding planner based in Wiltshire. We’re thinking of choosing a celebrant-led wedding, can you offer any advice? Mikayla says: You can’t go wrong opting for a celebrant-led wedding because there are no rules, you can hold your celebration anywhere at any time you like. The only thing to consider is that you need to visit a registry office beforehand to marry legally and obtain a certificate. After that, together with your choice of celebrant, you can start planning your dream ceremony. Once my couples are stood before me, depending on who has walked up the ‘aisle’ to greet who, I proceed to tell their love story followed by

A SUSTAINABLE DAY

Meet the expert: Sarah Raven is a garden expert, florist, writer and cook based in Marlborough, Wiltshire. How easy is it to prepare homegrown, sustainable flowers for our big day? Sarah says: Growing and arranging your flowers for your wedding can be so rewarding but it requires plenty of planning. Decide what varieties you want on the day, what purpose they’ll serve and what your sowing and cutting schedule is to ensure they’ll be ready for cutting ahead of the wedding. Each couple will have their own taste and preference, some will prefer light and delicate flowers while others will lean towards more architectural shapes and sturdy blooms. It’s important to choose varieties based on what will grow at the right time of year and not get fixated on any one individual type because they might not be in their best shape on the day so focus on colour and shape first and foremost. I always pick a range of dominant flowers as central pivots for displays and bouquets, like dahlias, sunflowers, zinnias, echinaceas, roses and lilies. Don’t be afraid to use contrasting colours or break the rules and use the opportunity to grow your wedding flowers to bring your personality to the palette. Use foliage and foraged items to bulk out displays and bouquets. Foliage can be useful for weddings early on in the season providing a beautiful display while lines of foxgloves and lupins give them a structural interest. The scent is so important and sweet peas offer this. You’ll never regret growing these because they’ll make a fantastic addition to any flower arrangement. For buttonholes, lilies and sprigs of heather are great

the all-important exchanging of the vows. This is followed by the blessing of the rings and performing any heartfelt ritual that the newlyweds might choose, such as a hand-fasting or sand-blending ceremony, or lighting a unity candle. This results in a personalized, bespoke ceremony that’s extremely memorable. Unlike a registrar or a church wedding, a celebrant does not follow a standard script, they write an individual one all about the couple. You can incorporate an element of religion in it, or opt for a secular ceremony and one big advantage is that you can write your vows - the possibilities are endless! Mikayla Ballard-Kearns | 07500 600 506 www.mikaylacelebrant.com www.facebook.com/celebrancy.wiltshire.9 www.instagram.com/mikaylacelebrant options. If you’re set on having a rose or dahlia in the buttonholes, wrap the stem in cottonwool followed by cling film and buttonhole tape. A wedding day isn’t complete without confetti and natural confetti provides a wonderful touch and is often preferred by venues. Fresh rose petals and marigolds as well as dismembered cornflowers all work well, plus the petals of larkspur and delphiniums too. Consider catching the dropped petals that have fallen off the other flowers you’re growing for the wedding and keep those as supplementary confetti. When it comes to picking day, put the stems straight into cool water (removing all leaves on the stems first) which will make a big difference to the vase life of the flowers and keep them looking fresher for longer. If any of your blooms start to droopy before the big day, sear the ends in boiling water (five seconds for softer stems and 45 seconds for woodier varieties). The most important thing to do once your arrangements are complete is to enjoy the day. Your venue will be brimming with the scent of your favourite flowers and you’ll take immense pride in seeing the fruits of your labour as beautiful, natural decoration on your wedding day. Sarah Raven | 0345 092 0283 | www.sarahraven.com www.facebook.com/sarahravensgarden www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden 51

PERFECTLY PACKAGED

www.photographybysallyanne.com

Please can you give us some ideas for styling our intimate micro wedding?

Sandra says: Mini meadows (pictured) are the perfect choice for styling your venue for a small wedding ceremony because they are so versatile. They can be placed in front of the ceremony table or used as aisle décor and then transferred to the top table or cake table during the wedding breakfast and reception. Not only do they look pretty, Meet the expert: Hannah Bendall owns a wedding planning and venue dressing business (as well as a millinery service creating hand-finished hats and fascinators) based in Gloucestershire.

https://capturethismoment.co.uk

Hannah says: Micro weddings give couples the option to host a scaled-down event spending quality time with a hand-picked selection of their loved ones. Dressing a venue for a smaller wedding can be an emotional experience because everything seems more intimate and magnified and the table decorations, place names and favours can be more elaborate because there’s

but they can also be gifted to guests at the end of the evening. Why not consider using dried flowers in some of them that will keep as a reminder of the wedding? Fabulous Functions | 07511 842 451 www.fabulousfunctionsuk.com www.facebook.com/ukfabfunctions www.instagram.com/ukfabfunctions often a larger budget available to spend on those all-important finishing touches. A sweetheart table used as the top table is a beautiful addition that allows the happy couple time to sit together and share precious moments. There’s always the option to host a lavish party afterwards with a larger guest list. Hannah Bendall Design | www.hannahbendalldesigns.co.uk 07818 083 690 | www.facebook.com/marchhareevents www.instagram.com/marchhareevents

https://capturethismoment.co.uk

Meet the expert: Sandra Trusty is the owner of Fabulous Functions, a wedding planning service based in Wiltshire specialising in transforming venues for weddings and celebrations.

EXPERT ADVICE

THROUGH THEIR EYES

Meet the expert: Daniella Marinos is a professional wedding photographer based in Gloucestershire. Her work offers a natural, documentary-style of photography and she captures those special moments as they unfold. Can you give us some tips for achieving fabulous wedding photos from a photographer’s perspective please? Daniella says: Weddings are the one time that you want to look relaxed, happy and natural in front of the camera. Here’s what a professional would suggest ensuring Insta-worthy snaps: ❤ Be relaxed, enjoy your day and have fun! It should be the most wonderful time and is the start of a new chapter in your life together. Rely on your bridal party to do most of the running around and embrace every emotion that you both feel. ❤ Remember that the photographer has a big responsibility on your day and they’re working hard for you. They’ll be running on adrenaline to accomplish everything so please try and ensure they are not forgotten with refreshments and food. ❤ Take advantage of the weather when it’s sunny and request plenty of outdoor shots but remember that the photographer only has a certain amount of daylight hours. Sometimes the weather changes quickly and any good photographer will pre-empt this and try and move the party indoors quickly.

❤ When you book your photographer, ask them whether they have any suggestions, for example, things like the groom’s preparation often gets forgotten but is a really important part of the day. ❤ Always check your contract to give you peace of mind that your chosen photographer has a backup plan if needed in the event of bad weather. ❤ Remember that your photographer is a business and has overheads including insurance. If they’re a quality photographer, their main summer dates won’t be available for long so don’t hold on to the deposit or contract because other enquiries will no doubt want the same date. ❤ Speak to your photographer, or email them, with every question you have, plus a list of your must-have shots – communication is key! Daniella Marinos Photography | 07720 230 977 www.daniellamarinosphotography.com www.facebook.com/DaniellaMarinosPhotography www.instagram.com/daniellamarinosphotography

SUITED AND BOOTED

Meet the expert: Mark Slater is the suit buyer at Slater Menswear, a gentlemen’s outfitter offering a large selection of men’s wedding suits and accessories with a store on The Promenade in Cheltenham. We’re two grooms planning our same-sex wedding – please can you give us some advice on choosing suits that complement each other? Mark says: Suits come in all shapes, sizes, colours, patterns and shades. There’s plenty to consider when picking a style - and that’s before you decide what shirt or tie to wear with it! Colour theory is more than just a tool for artists. It can (and should) be used when putting together an outfit to create a winning combination. By using the colour wheel as a starting point, you can see which shades work well together and which ones should be avoided. Because you have three potential colours to play with — your shirt, tie and suit — you have the freedom to be creative. There are three main ways you can implement colour theory to help you mix and match your clothing:

MONOCHROMATIC This relates to a single colour throughout. Rather than picking and choosing shades, this approach makes use of a range of tones to differentiate between each article of clothing. This conservative combination is the easiest way to implement colour theory and creates a foolproof, harmonious look.

COMPLEMENTARY Complementary colour schemes are the most striking. They consist of those that sit opposite one another on the colour wheel, like blue and orange or red and green. These combinations provide contrast and appear more prominent. Take caution when choosing this approach because bold tones can be jarring when mixed. A good approach is to choose a single bold colour choice with more muted accent colours.

ANALOGOUS This option uses colours that sit adjacent to each other on the colour wheel. This offers more versatility yet must be used carefully to avoid being overwhelming. Experiment with strong traditional colour, for example, if you have a navy suit as your base colour, pair it with a skyblue shirt and a purple tie. This combo utilises analogous colour schemes in a way that creates a sophisticated, well-put-together finish. 01242 224 494 | www.slaters.co.uk www.facebook.com/Slatermenswear www.instagram.com/slatermenswear 53

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A CLICK AWAY FROM YOUR PERFECT DAY

CWM_WEDDING Get your mood-board in the mood with some picture-perfect inspiration

FASHION

SECOND SKIN The new Sakura bridal lingerie collection from Wacoal offers a variety of styles decorated with pale pink and lilac cherry blossom available in sizes 34B to 38E, www.wacoal-europe.com

The latest wedding lingerie and nightwear offering from Ann Summers includes pretty lace bras, thongs, robes and babydolls in sizes up to 38G, www.annsummers.com

Lovehoney’s latest Wild Anticipation collection boasts chic white and blush-pink bridal bodies, suspender sets and bras with matching briefs, www.lovehoney.co.uk

In good hands

Carry your big-day essentials in this stylish quilted leather tassel clutch, £298, www.anyahindmarch.com

EDITOR’S FAVOURITE

EDITOR’S PICK

These silk eye masks, £44 each, are a wedding night essential! To shop, visit www.gigiandolive.com

focus

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

Something new

Bespoke bridal brand Alonuko has launched the Freedom collection of ten dresses and one suit. The styles have been hand-crafted by founder and creative director Gbemi Okunlola and her team using top-quality materials such as silk Mikado and Japanese and Swarovski crystals. There’s a design to suit every personality, from a grand princess gown to a fitted fishtail shape, all inspired by the designer’s London upbringing and Nigerian heritage. To book an appointment, visit www.alonuko.co.uk

Little lovelies

Online children’s formalwear brand ROCO has collaborated with TV personality, radio DJ and model Vogue Williams on a hand-picked edit of traditional yet contemporary cotton and linen-mix pieces ideal for junior bridesmaids and pageboys. The stunning collection consists of 15 looks ranging from £35 to £60 for ages three months to 14 years, and hero items have been named after Vogue’s children with a pink Gigi one-piece and a charming Theodore two-piece. To shop, visit www.rococlothing.co.uk

In other news for pageboys, the new childrenswear range from Oliver Brown includes dapper black dinner jackets, trousers and grey waistcoats, www.oliverbrown.org.uk

How cool are these statement Love earrings from Abbott Lyon? They’re purse-friendly too at just £39, www.abbottlyon.com 55

Pandora has unveiled its first diamond collection, Pandora Brilliance, exclusive to the UK. It includes lab-created diamonds, all sustainably made, featuring 0.15-carat to one-carat stones set in 14-carat yellow and white gold, and sterling silver, with prices ranging from £250 to £1,290, https://uk.pandora.net/en The new jewellery edit from Australian bridal brand Grace Loves Lace provides the perfect finishing touch with nine styles available in gold vermeil and sterling silver with freshwater pearls. Choose from earrings, a necklace and an anklet, https://graceloveslace.com

Leo With Love has launched an engraving service with its new Signature Collection, an edit of silver pendants, £100, and bracelets, £90. Complimentary engraving on the back can be added with up to 20 characters, www.leowithlove.com The debut wedding collection from Lock & Co. Hatters has recently launched with hats, veils and headbands priced from £350. Lock & Co. Couture by Awon Golding includes this Jamie style, www.lockhatters.com

This personalised padlock necklace featuring a hand-stamped initial, from £76, is from the latest Jewellery for Two collection by Muru London. It’s a great gift idea for bridesmaids! www.murujewellery.com The first bridal collection from Merve Bayindir launches this November with showstopping pieces starting from £615. It includes this pretty Orchid style featuring handmade flowers, https://mervebayindir.com

New demi-fine jewellery brand Maevery offers chic, affordable and wearable earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings and charms as part of its collection with prices starting from £20, www.maevery.co.uk

Hand & Lock’s exclusive Bridal Embroidery Service customises veils with hand monogramming, https://handembroidery.com

THE ACCESSORY

edit

Shop something new from our round-up of the latest bridal launches These moon and star hair slides from the new Autumn/Winder collection from Hush will adorn any bridal hairdo, www.hush-uk.com The new Z for Accessorize Gold Vermeil Collection features a selection of necklaces and earrings decorated with semi-precious stones with affordable prices ranging from £20 to £50. These heart-shaped studs are a great choice for brides, www.accessorize.com/uk 56

Independent jewellery brand elleroo engraves silver, rose gold and 9-carat gold beads with words that represent special moments that can be worn on bracelets or necklaces. We love this silver box chain necklace, £65, www.elleroo.co.uk This 14-carat solid gold tiara-shaped diamond band, £550, is from the Wedding Ring collection by British jewellery brand Carrie Elizabeth. The custom-made style is available in yellow, white and rose gold and there’s the option to have it engraved complimentary, https://carrieelizabeth.co.uk

FASHION

Once upon a time Dress dreams come true with this edit of fairytale-inspired gowns

www.elbethgillis.com 57

www.berta.com

www.herveparis.com

Scan to view video

Savin London at www.mayandgracebridal.com 58

www.clairepettibone.com

FASHION

www.justinalexander.com/justin-alexander-signature 59

www.jlmcouture.com/Lazaro

www.jlmcouture.com/Tara-Keely

https://sassiholford.com 60

www.morilee.co.uk

www.charliebrear.com

FASHION

www.halfpennylondon.com

www.justinalexander.com/lillian-west

Marchesa for Pronovias, www.pronovias.com

www.rosaclara.es/en-gb

www.justinalexander.com/sincerity-bridal

https://graceloveslace.com 61

For further wed-spiration and to keep up to date with the latest news and trends check out our County Wedding Magazines’ Instagram, Facebook and Twitter pages

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FASHION

s p a r w

UNDER These showstopping gowns feature statement sleeves, perfect for winter weddings

Flora by https://clairepettibone.com 63

Heart’s desire by www.lynashworth.co.uk

Bridal suit by www.alonuko.co.uk

Style no 21-111 by www.berta.com Scan to view video

Daisy and Harper by www.elbethgillis.com

Onas by www.rosaclara.es/en-gb 64

Audrey by www.needleandthread.com

Amber by https://sassiholford.com

Hudson by www.justinalexander.com/ justin-alexander-signature

FASHION

Savannah jumpsuit by www.lolatara.com

Cheryl by www.morilee.com

Brigitte top by https://carmenllaguno.com

Vertou by https://herveparis.com

ROC by Marchesa for Pronovias, www.pronovias.com Scan to view video

Oliver dress and Degas skirt by www.halfpennylondon.com

www.alonuko.co.uk 65

#BROWGOALS

ANYONE FOR TEA?

Toner, often the forgotten skincare routine step, is actually hugely beneficial. It can help with breakouts, remove the last traces of make-up, eliminate excess oil, help balance the skin’s pH levels, soothe and refresh. So, check out the new Q+A Green Tea Daily Toner (£8). Ideal for everyone, especially those with stressed-out skin, it’s packed full of antioxidants that protect from environmental damage. One in particular, EGCG, can even rejuvenate dying skin cells to restore and repair skin. Green Tea itself is rich in vitamin E, a moisturising ingredient known to minimise signs of ageing, amongst myriad other benefits. Check out www.qandaskin.com

Look a-brow-zing on your big day with the help of Kevyn Aucoin True Feather Brow Duo. Your eyes are the window to the soul that your partner fell in love with so why not frame them with the perfect brow? This dualended make-up marker helps to shape and set for a flattering and natural look. At one end you’ll find a precision brush tip that allows you to create hair-like strokes and fill in sparse areas, while blending in seamlessly. At the other end is an invisible gel infused with mung bean and red clover extract, a formula that aids healthy hair growth while providing a flexible hold. Priced at £22 Kevyn Aucoin True Feather Brow Duo is available at www.spacenk.com

Beauty

Beauty editor Kelly Andrews shares her latest beauty must-haves for the bride to be

BUZZ ZEST FOR LIFE

In need of a wake-up call? Inspired by the revitalising energy of waterfalls on the southern hills of the Isle of Arran, ARRAN Sense of Scotland’s Glenashdale fragrance combines an invigorating blend of rasped lemons, grapefruit and vetiver to create a truly tropical experience. Kickstart your wedding morn with a refreshing shower using Glenashdale Bath & Shower Gel followed by the matching body lotion. Infused with essential oils, extracts of vitamin E, aloe vera and shea butter they’ll uplift, refresh and revitalise both skin and spirits. The Glenashdale Body Care Gift Set is £30 at https://arran.com

ONE ENCHANTED EVENING

The highly-anticipated new fragrance from Ghost, Orb of Night Eau de Parfum, is the perfect scent to transport you to a warm, romantic summer evening. It’s described as a woody floriential with top notes of mandarin, cherry almond and bergamot, with a heart of freesia, orange blossom, ylang ylang and jasmine. So, if you’re looking for your signature big-day fragrance head to Superdrug, Boots, The Fragrance Shop or The Perfume Shop and see if it’s the one. Ghost Orb of Night is available in three sizes: 30ml (£27), 50ml (£38) and 75ml (£48).

THAT’S A WRAP

The Copper Sure Rapid Dry Hair Wrap is the latest innovation from cult hair health brand AQUIS. Made from a naturally antimicrobial performance fabric it allows the hair to dry without force or heat and eliminates the frizz, damage and breakage caused by harsh terry towels. Hair is at its weakest when wet so protecting it from such harsh treatment means it’ll be smoother and stronger. What’s more, since it’s woven with copper, which boasts antimicrobial and antibacterial properties proven to repel bacteria the wrap stays fresher longer, and is great for travel. I absolutely love mine – it’s taken the stress out of washing my hair in more ways than one. Check out www.aquishair.co.uk where the AQUIS Copper Sure Rapid Dry Hair Wrap is priced at £30. 66

FOR YOUR EYES ONLY

With more than 2,300 five-star reviews to its name GLOSSYBOX Skincare’s Eye Boost Cream is a cult favourite. Designed to combat the look of tired eyes, this fragrance-free formula is packed with anti-inflammatory botanicals and absorbs effortlessly into the skin. Thanks to its elderflower extract infusion it also helps to reduce the appearance of dark circles. So if wedding planning has been keeping you up at night, why not try staving off the effects with this little beauty? Priced at £16, it’s available at www.glossybox.co.uk

BEAUTY NEWS

KISS ME QUICK

When you’re lost for words, let your lips do the talking with the newest member of Glow Hub’s core essentials range, pep talk_. The petrochemical-free formula is bursting with nourishing avocado, rosehip and almond oils, rich in vitamin E and B to softly plump lips while giving them a hit of hydration. Finished with a team of peptides to help smooth creases, define contours and boost fullness it leaves you with a beautiful pillowy pout. Totally kissable lips on your wedding day! pep talk_ Plump Peptide Rescue Balm is £8 at https://glowhub.com

SILKY SMOOTH

Silk is by far the best material to use in a cleansing routine as the natural amino acids leave skin noticeably radiant and delay the ageing process. Cotton is, in fact, abrasive on a cellular level so, cleansing with a flannel causes friction leading to fine lines. This Is Silk’s 100 per cent silk face cloths boast a weave that gently exfoliates, conditions and smooths skin, leaving it glowing. What’s more, they’ve been naturally dyed black to avoid unsightly make-up marks, which can blight their white counterparts even after a thorough wash. This Is Silk Cleansing Cloths in Noir are £21.99 for three at https://thisissilk.com

PERFECT PREP

Award-winning and cruelty-free make-up brand Milani Cosmetics has introduced the Rose Prep + Prime range to Boots and Beauty Bay. It’s all about nourishing and replenishing your skin for a radiant complexion and dewy glow. I’m a fan of the lip treatment products in particular, which were game-changers for me! The Rose Sugar Lip Scrub (£13.75) comes first in the pamper session, polishing dry and chapped areas for an ultra-soft and smooth pout. Follow with The Rose Butter Lip Mask (£13.75), which contains hyaluronic acid to plump and replenish moisture. Your lipstick will look perfect on the day and your bridal make-up artist will love you for doing all the prep for them! These little heroes are available at www.milanimakeup.co.uk

NATURAL BEAUTY

#LIFEPROOF

Clarins’ new everlasting foundation and concealer are the perfect duo for your complexion, combining the very best of the brand’s skincare expertise with make-up that boasts 24-hour wear with high coverage and a matte finish. The two products contain a special hold polymer using organic oat sugars, known for their ability to increase the adherence of colour pigments to the skin, meaning you’ll stay looking flawless from vows to dancefloor. The Everlasting Foundation is priced at £31 (30ml) and the Everlasting Concealer at £23 (15ml). Find out more at www.clarins.co.uk

Add some awardwinning colour to your bridal beauty kit with Pure Anada’s allnatural mineral makeup Dreamy Compact Palette. It features a carefully curated collection of a pressed highlighter and four eye colours in the brand’s most popular neutral shades, ideal for creating that naturally glowing big-day look. Pure Anada products are handcrafted in the Canadian prairies from fresh ingredients incorporating the goodness of nature into each one. The Dreamy Compact Palette is available exclusively in the UK for £29.95 at www.liveinthelight.co.uk 67

Huda Beauty Glow Obsessions Highlighter Palette £27, www.boots.com “For all those glamorous brides-to-be, this is the perfect product to define your features and achieve that gorgeous glow. The pocket-sized palettes come with four different shades to match any make-up style and I loved mixing them to create a bespoke hue. To achieve a luminous complexion, I applied to the high points of my face including my cheekbones, brow bone, cupids bow and bridge of my nose, and this buttery, powdered formula blended in beautifully. A big bonus for me was that you can add a small amount for a natural look or build up for a glam finish that looks great in photos.” — Olivia Gibson

GLOW UP!

Looking to achieve that oh-so stunning bridal glow for your wedding day? These products can help and team CWM have put them to the test Kevyn Aucoin Glass Glow Liquid Illuminator £26, www.spacenk.com “On turning to YouTube for help on how to use this product I found a tutorial video by Kevyn Aucoin’s fab director of artistry and education, Nick Lujan, and less than 10 minutes later, I was good to go! I put two of Nick’s suggested uses to the test and was impressed by both. Day one: layering Glass Glow on the cheekbones before foundation application, I received compliments on my luminous complexion! Day two: I mixed Glass Glow with my foundation and was wowed by the fresh even, natural-looking glow I achieved. Top tip? Don’t be deterred by the sparkle, the result is flawless.” — Kelly Andrews

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacianmide Dew Drops £31, www.cultbeauty.co.uk “As a bride-to-be, I know how important it is to look fabulous on your big day, so I was excited to try these drops designed to give you a fresh, dewy look. The product smells amazing, and a little pump goes a long way, so although it’s not the cheapest, it’ll take you a long time to go through it all. I used the drops every morning for a few days and noticed a difference right away. My skin felt softer and looked hydrated. I’m planning to use it on the morning of my wedding and would definitely recommend it.” — Melissa Barker 68

Sculpted by Aimee Second Skin Dewy Finish Foundation £24, www.sculptedbyaimee.com “Ideal for normal to dry skin this moisturising foundation has a gorgeously smooth texture that’s super-easy to blend resulting in an even finish. One pump is all that’s needed for a light application or for days when more coverage is in order a couple of pumps should do the trick. I loved the healthy glow and breathable feel it left me with. I was also thrilled to learn of its anti-ageing properties: music to my ears having hit 40 during lockdown!” — Kelly Andrews

Institut Esthederm Cellular Water Mist £18, www.naos-store.co.uk “I’ve never used a mist before but I’m very much a convert after this product. It’s fragrance free, which I preferred for face application, its light consistency settles and dries quickly, and I definitely felt refreshed after applying in the afternoon after a busy day at work! As it can be spritzed, prefoundation, after make-up or throughout the day, it really is a perfect big-day product for the bride and her bridal party.” — Danielle Harvey

Huda Beauty GloWish Multidew Skin Tint £32, www.cultbeauty.co.uk “This little beauty is a must in anyone’s make-up kit; the lightweight product blends like a dream. The sheer coverage formula was the perfect balance to even out my skin tone while leaving a natural-looking finish. I used the shade fair, applied it with a beauty blender and found that all my other beauty products layered beautifully over it. I was left with a glowy base and brightened complexion. I’d recommend this product for the summer and warmer weather!” — Olivia Gibson

EXPERT ADVICE

ALL MADE UP Meet the expert: Juliet Draper is a hair and make-up artist covering weddings in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire and throughout the Cotswolds. She’s also a TWIA South West Regional Finalist 2021. Please can you give me some new-season inspiration for my wedding hair and make-up?

n o i h s Fa beauty &

Q&A

Our experts reveal all

Juliet says: When it comes to big-day make-up, the focus will be on you all day with many photographs being taken so your makeup needs to last. Sometimes, pictures can give the illusion of making you appear washed out and pale so adding a touch more blusher, bronzer or a slightly stronger lipstick shade to your bridal make-up will help. Subtle smokey eye products will also add definition and provide a stunning finish. Choosing the right hairstyle for your wedding can be very daunting. There are so many different options to pick from including bohemian-inspired long locks, classic up dos and contemporary textured styles. The classic Hollywood wave is extremely fashionable and looks glamorous finished with a pearl and diamanté hair accessory. If the boho look is more you then why not wear a braided style decorated with gypsophila or wax flowers?

FROM VINTAGE TO BESPOKE Meet the expert: A Lover’s Thread is an alternative bridal brand sustainably transforming original vintage dresses with bespoke embellishment. County Wedding Magazine’s fashion editor and editor of Your Glos & Wilts Wedding, Claire Ridley, explains the benefits of picking a pre-loved gown. I’m considering purchasing a vintage wedding dress, can you help? Claire says: Founder and designer of A Lover’s Thread, Sophie Tyler, works closely with style-led brides to merge the history of a piece with the personal style of the bride and designer, refitting and redesigning vintage gowns and adding beaded and hand-embroidered details such as newly married names and initials, the wedding date or lyrics of the first dance. Sophie tells us, “Our seamstress works her magic ensuring that each dress fits like a glove. Simple changes such as rehemming a gown or bigger alterations like changing a skirt or neckline or resizing a dress are also possibilities. Synthetic elements can be swapped for sustainable, natural alternatives which is something that I did with my own wedding dress to give it a more luxe, organic feel.” Brides can book an appointment at the Hertfordshire-based studio, or virtually if they live further afield, where they’ll enjoy a collection preview and Sophie will select styles for them to try on. For those enjoying a virtual appointment, their favourite style will be posted out via the Try At Home service. Each piece in the collection is one-of-a-kind with Collection One featuring an eclectic mix of carefully curated dresses dating from the 1930s to the early 1990s picked from the fashion capitals of the world as well as those lovingly sourced in the UK.

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS A Lover’s Thread | www.aloversthread.com | www.instagram.com/aloversthread Juliet Draper Hair and Make-up Artist | https://julietdraper.co.uk | www.instagram.com/julietdraperhair 69

Be beautiful

BE YOU

Emolyne Ramlov, founder of the eponymous make-up brand, talks inclusivity and bringing a colour boost to your bridal beauty

Tim McBaj

It’s our first anniversary soon and there’s been so much to learn over that time. Covid made things difficult as we actually went into lockdown around two weeks before launch. But we’d worked so hard for two-and-a-half years and I didn’t want to delay. It was a risk, but luckily it went crazy. Black Lives Matter came along and as an inclusive brand headed up by a black woman there was a lot of interest in what we had to offer. Everything happens for a reason.

orn in Uganda and raised in Denmark Emolyne Ramlov discovered a passion for make-up upon entering her teenage years. Until the age of 13 when she moved to Europe she hadn’t been permitted to wear make-up, which in Africa was seen as a distraction from studying and an unwelcome beginning to a flirtation with the opposite sex. So, it was a complete culture shock for her as she sat alongside her new classmates to find them in full beat and looking glam. “I went home and said to my mum: ‘We need to talk!’ She took me shopping and I filled my basket with as much make-up as I could. I needed to catch up and I haven’t stopped since,” she tells us. County Wedding Magazines’ beauty editor, Kelly Andrews, met up with Emolyne to discover more about her journey from passionate teenager to creating her very own make-up brand. What was the inspiration behind Emolyne? As my love for make-up grew I visited plenty of big stores looking for products to suit my skin tone, but couldn’t find the right ones. They had two to three reds perhaps, but none that I 70

liked or were complementary. As I grew older I realised that this was a problem across a lot of different product ranges. There was no single brand offering a matching lipstick, liner and nail polish, so I thought: “Well, I’m just going to do this then!” I use a lot of reds and nudes myself, so it made sense to start there, making sure that no matter the skin tone someone would be able to get at least one of each. I created 15 reds and 15 nude shades and even then I wasn’t sure if I should stop! The range has five colours for light, five for medium and five for dark skin tones. It allows people to pick a different colour for different seasons, as our skin tone changes throughout the year. I also created a kit to save my customers time, meaning once they discover their perfect shade they can easily find the matching products. When it came to naming this huge range of shades I wanted to be able to tell a story while keeping the brand personal, so I immediately thought of Africa. It was a way of honouring my place of birth and bringing the whole story together. Plus, I knew I could never run out of names if I looked there for inspiration!

Tell us more about the ideas, ethics and beliefs the company is founded on. I wanted this brand to be for everyone, no matter their gender or race – if you’re into make-up this is the place for you. The selection is big enough that everyone can feel included, which was the key. How do we achieve that perfect marriage between skin tone and make-up shades? The easiest way for us was to put models on our website covering as many different skin tones as

BEAUTY INTERVIEW

we could. That way customers can see whose is the closest to their own and how each shade looks on her. Tell us about your own beauty regime. I keep it simple. I wash my face every morning and evening, as well as steaming to open the pores, which allows serums to absorb more effectively. I use serum everywhere – hands, face, neck. These are the areas that start to show signs of age once you reach 40, so it’s important to look after them. A dermatologist once told me to use serum on my dry hands, and up to then I’d always thought it was just for the face, but I’ve never looked back. Ole Henriksen’s Truth Serum is my favourite, and not just because he’s a fellow Dane! What are your make-up bag must-haves? Uganda, Casablanca and Abuja are my favourite Emolyne shades. But it’s like being asked about my favourite child – they’re all my babies! I mainly wear a nude during the day for meetings, and in the evening I prefer reds. I’m particularly into red oranges at the moment. I always carry a nail polish with me too – Cameroon is versatile and works for all skin tones. And tissues... a mum can’t work without a tissue! What’s your top wedding-day make-up look? I’d go for something light depending on hair colour and skin tone. Keep it simple, elegant

and clean to keep focus on the eyes. You want your new spouse to see you sparkle. For light skin tones I’d recommend Luxor, Eritrea or Ciaro. For medium tones Tanzania, Kampala or Uganda work beautifully. And for darker tones Nairobi, Asmara or Marrakech are all perfect. Begin by using your favourite moisturiser, I’m a fan of a thick formulation in the winter. That serves as a base for the foundation and concealer. Then, keep building the look until you’re happy. Don’t start too strong as it’s hard to take anything back once you’ve gone too far.

“Enjoy and play with colour. Rule your shade and don’t be afraid to try something you haven’t tried before, they’re there to be explored.” What advice would you offer a bride who might not be used to wearing make-up but who wants to step it up for the wedding? I’d tone it down, don’t use too much. A little colour makes the lips pop, and match that to the eyeshadow for an on trend monochromatic look. What’s the one make-up secret you wish everyone knew? Moisturise properly before you do anything else. That’ll give you that all-important glow and

sets your make-up for long-lasting perfection. It was essential to me that our lipsticks last so you don’t have to keep topping it up throughout the day and that’s particularly important for a bride. What’s your proudest achievement so far? Definitely having the brand recognised for inclusivity. I love to see people go on the website and realise just how much choice there is, and hearing them say they just don’t know which to choose. The other thing for me was being able to make the products vegan and cruelty-free. I wanted to educate people to care about what they put on their skin, so this makes me really happy. Is there anything you’d still like to achieve? So much! Every day we listen to our consumers and what they want. So, the next phase for Emolyne Cosmetics is incorporating more skin tones for them, as well as including more models they can identify with. I also want to grow the product categories while staying within the 15 reds and 15 nudes concept. Look out for our pop ups too. Our original plans for these had to be cancelled due to Covid, but I still want somewhere for people to experience the range in real life, so they’ll be coming soon.

Find your perfect match at www.emolyne.com 71

h s i t i r B BEST OF

From Royal Ascot to The Crown, there’s a lot to be inspired by when keeping your big-day look classically British

www.next.co.uk

Cashmere Scarf Light Grey, £145, https://heating-and-plumbing.com

GROOMS’ FASHION

Black Leather Belt ‘Nieto’, £55, www.pampeano.co.uk

Pocket Watch, £129, https://shop.westminster-abbey.org

Highland Pocket Square, £38, https://roryhutton.co.uk Classic Collar Marcella Bib Tuxedo Shirt, £59.95, www.ctshirts.com/uk Italian Luxury Twill Navy Jacket, £299.95, www.ctshirts.com/uk

Silk Face Mask Navy, £30, www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

Silver Fleur de Lys Cufflink, £89, https://shop.westminster-abbey.org

Fleur de Lys navy silk tie, £35, https://foxandchave.com

Ted Baker ‘Derby’, £100, www.shoeaholics.com 73

It ’s all about meee

KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF

For really special wedding gifts, The Sock Butler – sister company to Sockshop – provides a delivery of new socks every month straight to your door! The service offers a choice of one, two or three pairs per month and the opportunity to select from different categories e.g. Classic, Fashion, Sporty and Fun. Ideal for updating sock drawers, subscriptions gifts available include one month, six or 12. Brands include Glenmuir, Pringle, SockShop, WildFeet and Jeff Banks and all the socks in the subscription sock boxes are either cotton or bamboo-based for a luxury feel. For an extra special touch, there is an option to personalise your socks with embroidered initials – perfect for the big day and beyond! Check out https://thesockbutler.co.uk

Wedding planning, especially after the last year, can be a stressful experience and if you’re feeling overwhelmed check out this new series of books: Meee in a minute. Meee in a minute offers 60 ways to improve your life in 60 seconds with a collection of life hacks, advice, insights, science, stories, short exercises, quotes and more that can help you improve your life. The Family edition is a book bursting with useful tips and strategies to appreciate, engage with, enjoy, connect and reconnect with your family – essential for your wedding planning and marriage journey. Each book is £8 including delivery, visit: www.meeebooks.com

Grooms’ NEWS All the latest best buys and product launches

SCOTTISH FLARE

Isle of Harris Distillery has launched made to order jackets in collaboration with renowned Scottish designer Judy R Clark. Isle of Harris Distillery along with, Harris Tweed Hebrides, the Harris Tweed Authority and the islands’ education services, worked closely with schools across the island to challenge the children to design a new Isle of Harris Distillery tweed whilst learning more about the history of tweed cloth. The winner of the competition was 14-year-old Scott Murray from Sir E. Scott School in the Isle of Harris. Scott’s winning design was woven in consultation with Judy R Clark to create this unique special cloth. Each jacket is made using specially woven Isle of Harris Distillery Harris Tweed combined with luxurious teal velvet collars embroidered in with rose gold threads. The linings are inspired by the Hebridean seas finished with rose copper buttons and contrasting sea-blue buttonholes. Priced £660 (includes UK postage), visit https://harrisdistillery.com

FROM THE ART

SENTIMENTAL ACCESSORIES

Merci Maman has unveiled its new Men’s Collection! The new seven piece collection features four bracelets and three necklaces, popular favourites include the Personalised Dog Tag Necklace (£89), and the Unity Bracelet (£89). The collection also introduces new leather styles for the first time and seven new gem stones, including tiger’s eye and aquamarine. Each piece is available in 925 sterling silver or 18k gold plated, and can be complimentary hand-engraved with special names, dates or messages making the collection perfect for big-day gifting. Check out www.mercimamanboutique.com 74

Desenio helps you find the perfect gift for every groom’s party member; from the office and the home to personalised prints, find something for every personality. Perfect for weddings, personalising your print with names, dates and places offers that extra special touch. If you can’t find the words to explain how you feel, quotation art prints are a beautiful way to express love, gratitude, or humour towards those you love most. Alternatively, choose from sports or music icons, or if you’re not sure which prints would suit their taste best, or if you’re short on time with last-minute wedding planning, Desenio Gift Cards are a great choice! Check out https://desenio.co.uk

COMPETITION

WIN

A MINIMOON IN PROVENCE, FRANCE WORTH UP TO £1,500

rillon Le Brave is nestled within a village eponymous of the Vaucluse region, and offers guests the chance to explore the picture-perfect Provençal countryside, historical nearby towns, and is just a stone’s throw away from some of the most sought-after vineyards in France. The hotel boasts 34 newly refurbished rooms and suites, an inviting reception area, gorgeous public spaces and idyllic outdoor pool overlooking surrounding vineyards and countryside. The hotel has been exquisitely presented with the help of French designer and decorator Charles Zana. Since it’s reopening in May 2021, the hotel has introduced a number of new experiences, a new yoga retreat as well as a refreshed culinary offering from new head chef Adrien Brunet ‒ who will be presenting new menus with locally sourced delicacies. The Spa des Ecuries is positioned

PRIZE: County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Maisons Pariente to offer two nights at Crillon Le Brave, Provence. The prize includes breakfasts, an aperitif at the bar and an in-room VIP welcome.

under imposing arches of the former vaulted stone stables from the 18th century. With three treatment rooms, including one double, the spa combines gentle and effective approaches dedicated to enhancing overall wellbeing. Guests can take advantage of the holistic treatment techniques of Bamford which are completely tailored to each guest’s needs. Crillon le Brave encourages guests to switch off and enjoy the art of taking things slow: amble around the village, lounge by the pool, rejuvenate in the spa and indulge in exquisite food. For those looking to explore the region’s rich culture and enjoy a quiet French escape, this five-star hotel is the perfect destination for a postpandemic home away from home holiday and honeymoon. Visit www.crillonlebrave.com, email reservations@crillonlebrave.com or call + 33 4 90 65 61 61.

HOW TO ENTER: For your chance to win, simply answer the following question: What is the name of the new head chef? Enter online at yourgloswilts.wedding

Closing date 3rd December 2021, unless otherwise stated. Terms and Conditions apply. Please see our website for details. 75

News

HONEYMOON Idyllic destinations for when you can hop, skip and jump on to a plane again, along with some UK beauties for the ultimate staycation...

HOME SCOTTISH BORDERS

A stunning rural hideaway set in Minto in the Scottish Borders, Lilylaw, newly launched with Crabtree & Crabtree, provides the most idyllic location for a romantic honeymoon. It boasts spectacular views and staying guests also get unique access to Fatlips Castle, an iconic Pele tower situated on the estate at the top of Minto Crags. Located on a private track, this former gamekeeper’s cottage is in an undisturbed and completely serene spot, ideal for those looking to escape to the countryside. The charming period property has been fully renovated into a gorgeous, romantic one-bedroom bijoux bolthole comprising an open-plan bedroom and living area and feature roll top bath with woodland views. Based on a self-catering basis, seven nights in summer available through Crabtree & Crabtree is from £950. To book, visit www.crabtreeandcrabtree.com or call 01573 226 711.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

The Torridon invites newlyweds to reconnect during a minimoon experience in the Scottish Highlands. During the Winter Minimoon experience, newlyweds can enjoy the snowcapped landscapes and starry night skies of the Highlands, feasting on the best seasonal produce and rejoicing in two nights of rejuvenating sleep. Led by the Torridon Outdoors experts, a crisp full day guided walk along the munros and woodlands surrounding the hotel, is followed by drinks in front of the crackling fire and a private whisky tasting led by the dedicated team in The Torridon’s Whisky Bar. Couples can indulge in a four-course set menu crafted by head chef Paul Green. Set in the 1887 Restaurant it will pair dishes sourced from the region’s best winter ingredients and local game from The Torridon Estate with exquisite wines. Lovebirds can add a bespoke star-gazing experience to their minimoon package, and join astronomer Stephen Mackintosh for a three-course meal and an excursion across the Highlands, revealing a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Arcturus constellation. A Winter Minimoon complete with: two-night B&B in a Deluxe room, tasting menu, whisky tasting, full day guided walk, champagne, chocolates and flowers is £1,520. Add the Star-gazing Experience between Nov-Mar for an additional £530, including a three-course dinner with astronomer Stephen Mackintosh. Find out more about The Torridon at www.thetorridon.com or call on 01445 791 242.

CHANNEL ISLANDS

The Blonde Hedgehog, located in Alderney, is a collection of 18th-century buildings lovingly restored to be a petite boutique Georgian retreat. Renovated from a local pub and an elegant townhouse, it’s understated luxury at its best; the modern interior design complements the original Georgian features. With just a small number of rooms and suites, it’s intimate and sophisticated without losing any of its charm. Alderney is perfect for honeymooners looking for relaxation, romance and adventure; an island for exploring and seeing nature’s wonders, couples can experience sea kayaking, boat trips, rockpooling and fishing. It’s easily walked or cycled around in a day – definitely one of the best ways to see the entire island. Available through Fish&Pips from £230 per night on a B&B basis, visit www.fishandpips.co.uk or call 01306 264 005.

HONEYMOON NEWS

AWAY GREECE

Costa Navarino, the ultimate five-star sustainability-led travel destination in Messinia on the under-the-radar Peloponnese peninsula in Greece, is an idyllic location for honeymoons. Perched on the unspoiled and breathtaking coastline, overlooking the Ionian Sea, it provides newlyweds with the perfect romantic shorthaul destination post-vows. A sophisticated setting, surrounded by verdant land and a sparkling seascape, Messinia has quaint town halls, beautiful beaches and offers hilltop exploration. Costa Navarino is one of the few beachfront mixed-use developments in the Mediterranean and includes: luxury hotels, freehold residences, a world-famous Anazoe spa, 21 restaurants and bars, sports facilities and two signature golf courses ‒ meaning guests and newlyweds never have to leave! For more information visit www.costanavarino.com

MAJORCA

Perfect for pre- or post-wedding getaways, Es Racó d’Artà is a wellness retreat that’s recently joined the TemptingPlaces hotel label. A real gem in the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean, this new holistic retreat is located next to the historic town of Artà, on the eastern part of the island. Outstretched in the valley, its nearly 200 acres encompass an authentic 13th-century stone farmhouse, several buildings, almond, fig and olive trees, local fruit trees as well as 14 acres of grapevines. It’s here, within this peaceful environment, that this newly-opened property invites its guests to connect with nature and lift themselves beyond their well-being. Seamless swimming pools, jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, relaxation and meditation areas offer newlyweds a unique experience, where the notion of time and space disappears. Make sure to try a Watsu treatment, performed in the original treatment pool – this aquatic massage creates optimal conditions to enter a state of deep relaxation through the union of water and shiatsu, aiming to release the everyday tensions ‒ bliss! Visit www.temptingplaces.com

ITALY

AMERICA

Hotel Bel-Air, possibly one of the most romantic hotels in the world, has launched an outdoor dining experience, Bel-Air Under the Stars. Guests can cosy up beside their own private firepit while sipping wine, toasting marshmallows and tucking into Wolfgang Puck snacks. Many Hollywood love stories have played out at this iconic hotel in its 75-year history, and it’s easy to see why stars including Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly have fallen for its romantic allure. Set within the blissful Canyon landscape, and away from the LA noise, this private and elegant hotel is a haven in Bel-Air and renowned for its 12 acres of winding, tropical greenery surrounding the beloved Swan Lake, filled with flowers that bloom all year round and home to a 100-year-old sycamore tree. It has witnessed some of the most incredible, star-studded and wildly romantic weddings imaginable, all watched over with loving grace by its swans. What’s more, one of the hotel’s most famous guests, Grace Kelly, penned a number of love letters to her then partner Oleg Cassani during her time staying there while she was filming Country Girl. What better honeymoon destination truly epitomises love and romance? Rooms start from $695, visit www.dorchestercollection.com

Room Mate Hotels, the international hotel chain, has opened Hotel Room Mate Filippo and Gran Filippo Apartments in Rome. Located 500 metres from the emblematic Spanish Steps and a ten-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain, the hotel and the apartments are designed by interior designer Tomas Alía, who was inspired by the refined aesthetics of the 1940s. The hotel has 30 rooms divided into three categories: superior, deluxe and executive, its imposing façade stands out with elegant and subtle flat pilasters and striking lighting that creates a chandelier effect throughout the street acting as a magnet to passers-by. The lobby features a forest of sculptural, three-dimensional palm trees, complete with a dome supported by granite columns. The two interior courtyards - the two lungs of the building - are arranged with sienna- and celadon-colored lattices while the rest of the common areas are divided into a large meeting room with a library effect and the breakfast room, decorated with modulations in marble, gilded metals and geometric shapes. The rooms, several of which have terraces, have surprising decorations, all inspired by the refined, well-travelled and cultured aesthetics of the 1940s Check out https://room-matehotels.com/gb/ 77

Top five eco resorts... ...in Sri Lanka

Gal Oya Lodge

A unique eco lodge nestled in 20 acres of private jungle located adjacent to Gal Oya National Park. The design concept has been created in harmony with its surroundings and natural features, with an integrated effort to minimise impact on the natural environment, support the local community and to pro-actively engage in wildlife research and protection. Eco & Sustainability Credentials: Water is sourced from a deep bore well on the lodge’s land, zero plastic policy, wherever possible ingredients are sourced locally and organically, building supplies

Ulagalla

This hotel features a 150-year-old mansion at its centre with 20 private ecologically built villas spread across 58 acres of lush landscape. Two sparkling reservoirs, paddy fields and lily ponds surround the ancestral estate that was once of Anuradhapura nobility. Part of Uga Escapes, it has been awarded with the highly soughtafter Travelife Gold certification for its pioneering efforts to promote sustainability in tourism. Eco & Sustainability Credentials: Pioneering initiatives to minimise

were all local materials, guests are invited to sponsor and take part in re-planting of native species on land previously cleared for farming, and there is much more being done to help local employment and the community. Rates: Three nights at Gal Oya Lodge starts from £1,040 (double room, full-board basis including experiences). A 14-night bespoke itinerary starts from £6,995pp (price based on two adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half- and full-board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur. Excludes flights). environmental impact, improving the economic conditions of people living in and around the boutiques, protecting human rights and fair labour practices, safeguarding animal welfare and bio-diversity for future generations. Ulagalla has been expertly designed to be environmentally friendly and with a commitment to renewable energy. Rates: Three nights at Ulagalla starts from £1,810 (double room, B&B basis including experiences). A 14-night bespoke itinerary starts from £6,995pp (price based on two adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half- and full-board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur. Excludes flights).

HONEYMOONS

Santani Resort & Spa

Few resorts in the world can match Santani’s serene view on an undulating hillside to the north east of Kandy. Channeling the concept of intelligent luxury where nature is king and service is everything, you can truly escape the world here. Eco & Sustainability Credentials: Santani has been designed in such a way so that neither air-conditioning nor heating is required reducing energy consumption by about 70%. Most of the buildings are constructed on stilts that allows for natural thermal flow to cool the rooms and this structure also ensures there is minimal contact with the earth below. The whole spa is built underground which provides natural cooling too – almost 80% of the wood used for both structural elements and furniture is recycled. Rates: Three nights at Santani Resort & Spa starts from £2,660 (double room, half-board basis including wellness package and experiences). A 14-night bespoke itinerary starts from £6,995pp (price based on two adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half- and full-board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur. Excludes flights).

Kalundewa Retreat

An eco-retreat tucked away in a lush 100 acres in Dambulla drawing its beauty from the mystic Kalundewa Mountain range. The isolated farming community contribute to the hotel resulting in a handful of eco-friendly dwellings to minimise human impact on the intricate ecosystems that flourish in the forest, lakes and waterway. Eco & Sustainability Credentials: The retreat blends both agriculture and tourism, and contributes to the welfare of its neighbouring rural farming community. Its vision is to go 100% organic with all cultivation processes. Currently 100% of the electricity consumed is generated by solar panels. Irrigation is via restored waterways and windmill-pumped ground water, and the natural well feeds spring water into the main pool. Rates: Three nights at Kalundewa Retreat starts from £1,850 (double room, full-board basis including experiences). A 14-night bespoke itinerary starts from £6,995pp (price based on two adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half- and full-board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur. Excludes flights).

Leopard Trails

This bespoke, luxury, tented safari operates within the buffer zones of both Wilpattu and Yala National Parks with the aim of minimising its impact on the environment. Its existence is to showcase a true wilderness experience but prioritise above all else, the protection of nature. Eco & Sustainability Credentials: Leopard Trails works hand in hand with the local community with campsite staff and drivers handpicked from the local community; fruit, vegetables, meat, seafood and other provisions are sourced from local suppliers and, where possible, equipment is manufactured and maintained within the local area. The team actively discourage the use of plastic water bottles and only use reusable stainless steel thermos flasks. Many rangers are either qualified in eco matters or have been responsible for implementing award-winning ecotourism and sustainability initiatives. Rates: Three nights at Leopard Trails starts from £2,660 (double room, full board-basis including experiences). A 14-night bespoke itinerary starts from £6,995pp (price based on two adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half- and full-board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur. Excludes flights). All properties can be booked as part of a tailor-made holiday to Sri Lanka with Sri Lanka Bespoke: www.srilanka-bespoke.com 79

Love is in the air

County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey

can’t quite believe that my wedding is only 10 months away! The time is going by so fast, and it still feels like we have so much left to plan! As some of you may know, within the first few months of being engaged we’d booked our venue, photographer and caterer and were on the lookout for the rest of our suppliers. With the pandemic pushing most weddings back in to 2022, we found that a lot of companies we were interested in booking weren’t available. Not to be defeated, we carried on searching knowing it was best to get everything sorted as early as possible. My fiancé, Dave, and I are enjoying the process, but it can feel slightly overwhelming at times. With such a big family and many coming from abroad, we’ve found it difficult trying to keep everyone happy while also maintaining our original budget, but we’re still super excited to see what the day will look like.

FLORAL WONDERS I love flowers and fully believe they can transform any venue into a beautiful space, so choosing the perfect florist was really important to me. I wanted something to tie in with our blush and sage green colour scheme but also complement our barn venue. Despite working in the wedding industry for more than five years, I’m ashamed to admit my knowledge of flowers isn’t great, so I needed a supplier who would

be able to make suggestions and help us bring our vision to life. Whilst looking through social media, I happened to come across a stunning, oversized bouquet that was exactly what I wanted. I looked up the company and found they were based just five minutes from our wedding venue – I thought it was fate! The florist had a range of pre-made packages that suited our needs perfectly. We checked the company’s reviews online, confirmed availability for our day and discussed our needs. The team were fantastic and even suggested ways of helping us save money, which we really appreciated. We booked bouquets, buttonholes, pew ends, centrepieces and an arrangement for the top table, which we’re excited to see. As we were in lockdown at the time, we were unable to meet our florist in person, so when restrictions lifted slightly we travelled to meet them at a wedding fair. Being able to discuss our vision in person made us feel confident about our decision, and I’d definitely recommend meeting face-to-face if possible.

DRESSED TO IMPRESS After being engaged for a few months, I decided to give in to my mum’s nagging and go dress shopping. I’m short, curvy and very selfconscious, so I was dreading trying on gowns! We visited our local boutique, and since I had no idea of what style I wanted, I must admit I felt quite overwhelmed. I started with a fishtail, which I liked the look of, but it just didn’t feel like me; I also felt like I couldn’t sit down without bursting out of it! I quickly moved onto an A-line silhouette. The second gown I tried on was one I’d seen online and loved. It had three-quarterlength sleeves, a detailed bodice, a plunging neckline and lots of lace. On paper, this sounds like everything I didn’t want in a dress, but strangely enough, it turned out to be the one. I tried on a few different options afterwards (mainly for fun), but I found fault in all of them

and always came back to my dress. It needs some alterations as it’s slightly too big, but I purchased it there and then. I would share a picture with you all, but Dave reads this and is (annoyingly) traditional so is against seeing the dress before the big day! One thing I didn’t anticipate was how I would feel after purchasing it. I always thought I’d feel over the moon, but instead, I felt quite panicked. Not because I didn’t love the dress, but after years of writing about weddings, I felt so much pressure to have this overcome-withemotion moment when wearing the one for the first time, that I started to question if I’d made the right decision. I’ve since come to realise that everyone is different, and I absolutely adore my dress whether I cried or not. I’ve spoken to a few of my married friends, and some had similar experiences, which was reassuring to hear! My advice to any bride-to-be is to go with your gut, don’t panic about how you should be feeling or what you should be wearing, do what makes you happy! Make sure you check in next issue to hear all about our engagement shoot and my search for a hair and make-up artist.

Melissa. x

Here’s my moodboard to help give you heaps of inspiration.

BRIDE’S DIARY

We haven’t decided on a table plan yet, but we like the idea of names hanging from string surrounded by gorgeous flowers.

I love confetti pictures, and it’s something I really want our photographer to capture on the big day. We’re currently looking into eco-friendly options and trying to decide which colour to use.

Our photographer has suggested taking pictures of my dress in different parts of the venue, and I’m excited to see what he comes up with.

Seeing as this July it rained, a lot, we’ve purchased some white umbrellas just in case the weather turns bad for our July wedding next year.

How stunning is this flower arch?! I’d love to incorporate something like this into our day.

Our colour scheme is blush and sage green, so we’re going to incorporate both hues into our table decorations.

The chalkboard signage trend is here to stay! I, for one, adore it and am thinking of using one as our welcome sign.

To decorate our wedding chairs, we’re thinking of acquiring wooden bride and groom signs.

To keep the rings safe, we’re planning to buy an engraved box that we can keep for years to come. 81

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Your Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Wedding- October/November 2021 (Issue 29)

Articles inside

COMPETITION

HONEYMOON NEWS

TOP FIVE ECO RESORTS

FASHION Q&A

GLOW UP

THE ACCESSORY EDIT

FASHION FOCUS

A FAMILY AFFAIR

HOT TOPIC

CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES

LOVE AL FRESCO

SPOTLIGHT ON... CHELTENHAM

DREAM A LITTLE DREAM

NEARLYWED NEWS

EDITOR’S LETTER