Your Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Wedding- August/September 2021 (Issue 28)

WIN!

A minimoon in Corfu worth £1,000

yourgloswilts.wedding

You glow, girl!

Beauty expert tips

Leading lady

Stylish mother-of-the-bride accessories

Romantic real weddings

We reveal where to wed £3.55 AUG/SEP 2021

MARRIAGE MATERIAL

SPOTLIGHT ON...

WEST WILTSHIRE

Taking centre stage Styled shoot special

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

Preserve your Family Heritage

From this...

To these...

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

CONTENTS

62

On the cover

REGULARS 6 EDITOR’S LETTER

A warm welcome from Claire

9 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions

15 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

56 HOT TOPIC

Angela Ward Brown captured our stunning cover image this issue at Fonthill Estate located in Salisbury, Wiltshire. 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 https://angelawardbrown.com to see more of Angela's work.

FEATURES

41 BRIGHT YOUNG THINGS

Local experts offer big-day advice

Fonthill Estate in Wiltshire offers three stunning venues for weddings. Stylist Rosie Barrett collaborated with photographer Angela Ward Brown, and a selection of local suppliers, to style this magical shoot

90 COMPETITION Win a minimoon in Corfu worth £1,000

45 FUN WITH FOLIAGE In the first of two shoots at exclusive-use wedding venue The Barn at Upcote in Gloucestershire, photographer Rob Tarren and Lyla Gibb from The Cotswold Wedding Company collaborated with an expert team of local suppliers to create this rustic-inspired look

50 A TWIST ON TRADITION Exclusive-use wedding venue Eastington Park in Gloucestershire was the magnificent backdrop for this elegant shoot styled with contemporary touches created by a team of talented local suppliers

21

53 THE SWEET SPOT We reveal some of the finest new designs for the wedding season

VENUES

59 ROCKS ON

Wedding venues in West Wiltshire

78 READY, SET, PLAN!

21 SUITE DREAMS

County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey

17 SPOTLIGHT ON...

Claire's go-to guide for big-day bling

We unveil some of the chicest hotels including a hot new opening in Cheltenham 3

60

84 FASHION & BEAUTY

REAL WEDDINGS

Your mum will love this season's selection of floral dresses, hats and accessories in muted prints

Kelly and Tim's wedding at Hyde House in Gloucestershire enjoyed a rose-gold colour theme

61 FASHION FOCUS

31 SURPRISE, SURPRISE!

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

Sarah and Andrew kept their nuptials quiet and invited guests to what they thought was an engagement party

60 LEADING LADY

62 ETHEREAL GIRL These whimsical wedding dresses are rather fitting for a relaxed, bohemian vibe

67 STAR OF THE SHOW Make an entrance in a glamorous dress adorned with sequins, beading and feathers

70 THE HEALTHY HAIR GUIDE Achieve the wedding tresses of your dreams with help from trichologist Anabel Kingsley bridal fashion news, buys and launches

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

75 FASHION & BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems

76 ALL GOOD THINGS We put 2021's trending beauty ingredients through their paces

4

24 MARRY ME!

36 MAKING A STATEMENT Helen and Shane's big day at Woodchester Mansion in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire enjoyed a classy gothic theme with ivory and black touches

90

GROOMS 81 GROOMS’ NEWS

Danielle Harvey shares all the latest best buys and product launches

82 GREEN WITH ENVY Here's to the perfect colour palette for this nature-inspired hue

HONEYMOONS 84 HONEYMOON NEWS

All the latest inspiration from the world of travel

86 BACK TO NATURE A once in a lifetime experience, a honeymoon safari adventure will certainly make memories and create the ultimate photo album!

89 THE DARLING BUDS OFMAY Hannah Faulder receives a true Yorkshire welcome at The Alice Hawthorn in Nun Monkton

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

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 Manager Ruth Swallow | 01376 538 568 karene@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 | subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 | accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James

Summer vibes T

his issue, there has been so much going on in the world and no, I’m not talking about the pandemic! Although on the topic of our Prime Minister Boris Johnson, he got married to his bride, Carrie Symonds, who rented her Christos Costarellos wedding dress - would you, or wouldn’t you, rent yours?

Singer Ariana Grande caused an Instagram frenzy recently when she married at her home, coining the term ‘ceremini’ that’s inspired our expert feature this issue.

We’ve got plenty of ideas for a staycation summer spent wedding planning now that restrictions have lifted.

Exclusive-use wedding venue Elmore Court, located in Gloucestershire, recently launched drone footage of a mock wedding while Fonthill Estate in Wiltshire provided three beautiful backdrops for our Bright young things shoot.

There’s also fun fashion including stylish pieces for mothers-of-the-bride, big-day beauty plus ideas for your dream honeymoon including magical safaris so enjoy the issue!

Claire x

Claire Ridley, Editor

It’s all in the details and Kelly and Tim’s wedding at Hyde House in Gloucestershire featured on page 24 was full of pretty finishing touches expertly photographed by Vita Vestra Photography.

@YourGlosWiltsWedding

I love the real wedding story of Sarah and Andrew on page 31 who surprised their guests by inviting them to what they thought was an engagement party. It was all caught on camera by photographer James Fear.

@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

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

Anyone who knows me well knows that pink is my favourite colour so I smiled wide when this pretty-in-pink carrot and walnut cake

by Maryanne Stefanovic at Cotswold Rustic Cakes based in Gloucester landed in my inbox. It’s decorated with pastel pink American buttercream, macarons and meringue kisses.

Turn to page 53 to see more delicious designs.

This stunning image of bride Helen Cox taken in the hallway of her chosen wedding venue Woodchester Mansion in Gloucestershire was taken by her new hubby, Shane. He is the talented wedding photographer behind www.captures.com.

Turn to page 36 to see their classy gothic-themed day in full with all official photographs taken by photographer Rob Golding.

EDITOR’S LETTER

The stunning Fonthill Estate in Wiltshire provided a versatile backdrop for our Bright young things shoot on page 41, photographed by Angela Ward Brown.

Exclusive-use wedding venue Elmore Court in Gloucestershire produced a mock wedding party that was filmed by a drone. Turn to page nine to read all about it.

xxxx

I love Wellington Barn located in the centre of the tiny village of Calstone, near Calne. All is revealed in our Spotlight on...West Wiltshire feature on page 17.

I love this dramatic staircase shot inside exclusive-use wedding venue Eastington Park in Gloucestershire. It was snapped by Khya Watts Photography and all is revealed on page 50.

The Barn at Upcote in Gloucestershire was decorated with fun foliage touches

by Lyla Gibb from The Cotswold Wedding Company and a team of talented local suppliers for our exclusive shoot on page 45. Photography Rob Tarren documented the day.

Here’s The Barn at Upcote again, this time styled with a mauve colour theme which is fast becoming the season’s hot new trend. Read all about it on page 50.

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Milbury M o rri s M i n o rs

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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.

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

W W W. FA R R A R - TA N N E R . C O . U K

YOUR ESSENTIALS

https://youtu.be/ogucco_ZEQQ

ELMORE COURT UNVEILS DRONE VIDEO Exclusive-use Gloucestershire wedding venue Elmore Court is now offering potential wedding couples a behind-the-scenes look at a mock wedding through ambitious drone footage.

The 150-second, one-shot video uses the first person view (FPV) drone skills of experienced pilot Andy Lawrence who is otherwise kept busy shooting car stunts for Top Gear and The Grand Tour. The footage takes viewers on a journey exploring the rural location, the main house and the Gillyflower ballroom, with the final shot taken in the grand ceremony hall.

To book, visit www.elmorecourt.com

d e w y l r a e N NEWS

The latest news from around both counties

TEWKESBURY PARK LAUNCH NEW OUTDOOR GARDEN TERRACE ROOMS Patrick Jones, general manager of Tewkesbury Park, is pleased to announce the completion of 17 Outdoor Garden Terrace Rooms with rates starting from £185 per night based on two people sharing including breakfast. Enjoying stunning views of the surrounding Gloucestershire countryside, they have been designed to meet the increasing requests for UK staycations offering more outdoor privacy providing the feeling of a hotel apartment within a five-star property. Sustainable oak screens have been installed at each one to achieve this while clever landscaping sees unusual plants and stylish bistro sets offering a Mediterranean vibe. As the weather cools, warm blankets and atmospheric lighting provide a cozy after-dark ambience.

A further four guest rooms located on the ground floor have been reconfigured and turned into Outdoor Garden Terrace Rooms. The bathrooms have undergone a complete overhaul with bold statement fittings complementing large mirrors which enhance the light and airy space. Stylish furniture, designer-led feature walls and soft furnishings provide a fresh country-style feel with a modern twist.

To book, visit www.tewkesburypark.co.uk and turn to page 21 to read more.

IVY LODGE AT CIRENCESTER PARK POLO CLUB REVEALS REFURBISHMENT AND NEW MENU Cirencester Park Polo Club has now appointed a resident full-time chef, Ethan Rodgers, previously from The Lucky Onion group, to turn the establishment into a popular eatery serving gourmet food. The menu offers polo-themed dishes including the chukka cheese burger and the bookmaker sandwich served with horsetard sauce. Ethan’s philosophy is to use fine locally sourced produce that’s cooked simply and served in a way that allows the food to speak for itself. One of the most popular dishes on the menu is steak frites, a dry-aged 6oz pave steak served with fries and béarnaise sauce. For vegetarians, the Bathurst Estate wild garlic Acquerello risotto made with fresh peas, mint, pesto and a free-range poached egg is a must-try.

The choice of starters inspired by countries around the world include Spanish gazpacho soup, Thai-fusion bang-bang chicken salad and the classic Greek caesar salad.

To book, call 01285 653 225 or visit www.cirencesterpolo.co.uk 9

THE GEORGE LAUNCHES NEW HOTEL CONCEPT The George is the first hotel within the design-led Cult Hotels collection and it’s located in Cheltenham. It occupies five Grade II listed Regency townhouses accommodating 46 bedrooms and all rooms feature comfortable beds, showers and super-fast WiFi. Combining signature style with the simplicity of self-service, The George offers a new way to stay with contactless check-in, a 24-hour pantry and drop-and-go check-out.

Owner Julian Dunkerton, who runs the hotel with his wife Jade, tells us, “The name Cult Hotels is a nod to my history and where it all began for

me, naturally Cheltenham is home to the flagship hotel – The George. As an entrepreneur, I identified a gap in the market to create a new hotel concept that is accessible, approachable and cool. Cult Hotels exists for the savvy traveller who values aesthetic and culture at a fair price.

My ambition with this venture is to continue to breathe new life into old buildings and bring a game-changing hotel concept to the marketplace.”

Room categories and rates start from £105. To book, visit www.culthotels.com/locations/the-george and turn to page 21 to read all about this hotel as a chic wedding venue.

EDITOR LOVES The Little Soap Company located in Broadway has launched their Eco Warrier shampoo bars, £4.50 each. They’re kind to the environment, as well as to hair with no sulphates, detergents and alcohol. They’re vegan-friendly, biodegradable and come packaged in a recyclable box making them ideal wedding favours. To shop, visit www.littlesoapcompany.co.uk

ELLENBOROUGH PARK LAUNCH OUTDOOR DINING CARRIAGES Ellenborough Park Hotel, a five-star, 15th-century Cotswold manor hotel located just outside Cheltenham on the doorstep of the world-famous Cheltenham Racecourse, has launched new al fresco dining carriages where guests can enjoy dinner outdoors. There’s also the Cedar Pavilion Tent and the Horse Box as alternative options and the menu is designed to appeal to a wide variety of tastes using fresh and seasonal ingredients with creative options for vegetarians and vegans. A quintessentially British afternoon tea is also served in the Great Hall.

To book, visit www.ellenboroughpark.com and turn to page 31 to see our exclusive real wedding that took place there.

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Weddings to a T PHOTOGRAPHY

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If you book before 30th September 2021

I am a professional photographer based in Salisbury and cover the South of England. I capture natural but refined moments in a relaxed and stylish way.

I love emotive, natural photography and want to give you something a little bit more. I was always the friend or family member with the camera that everyone relied on to document parties and outings.

Day to day I am an Occupational Therapist in a busy acute hospital, helping the elderly get back home and participate in what is meaningful to them. I feel so incredibly lucky to have found something else, at the other end of the spectrum, which allows me to get creative and express myself in a completely different way.

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!

www.sarahgrace-photography.co.uk Contact: sarah.falconer@hotmail.co.uk 07899 781 514

Call: 07753 271985 Email: weddingstoat1916@gmail.com

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CLASSIC, PREMIUM, DELUXE & B E S P O K E PA C K A G E S AVA I L A B L E Professional, natural documentary style photography to capture those special moments on your big day.

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Homemade, hand poured Soy Wax candles LOVE AND CARE IN EVERY SINGLE ONE SMALL TIN (4OZ) Black, Rose Gold, Gold or Silver with cotton wick BESPOKE FLORAL TIN (4OZ) Silver with a cotton wick GLASS JAR (6OZ) with either cotton wick or beautiful crackling wood wick

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YOUR ESSENTIALS LET’S ELOPE! Wiltshire-based wedding photographer Jade Holly recently collaborated with a talented team of suppliers including Chippenham-based florist Blooming Chic to create this romantic mountain elopement shoot.

THE DREAM TEAM Photographer | www.jadehollyphotography.com Flowers | 01249 248 317 | www.bloomingchic.co.uk Dress | https://matchimony.co.uk Veil | www.filigreebridal.co.uk Hair and make-up | 01903 235 959 http://katemitchellmakeupstudio.co.uk Shoes | https://wedding-converse.co.uk Jackets | https://niamhdesigns.com

WOKO WICKS CANDLES REVEALS WEDDING FAVOURS Gloucestershire-based WoKo Wicks Candles has recently launched some new wedding favours. Elegant silver and rose gold tins are decorated with the wedding date and name on each lid and come in a variety of scents for just £3.50 each. The lead time for wedding orders is two to three weeks and there’s a minimum order of 10 candles in tins. There are also quirky pyramid-shaped, vintage-style favours with tea lights inside priced at £2 per piece and these orders are available within one week.

To shop, visit www.etsy.com/uk/shop/wokowickscandles

WARNER LEISURE HOTELS LAUNCHES GIN FESTIVAL STAYCATIONS Warner Leisure Hotels has curated a series of events at all 14 of its UK-based properties, including Littlecote House Hotel on the border of Wiltshire and Berkshire, combining botanicals and live entertainment to give staycationers a gincredible getaway.

The Warner Festivals of Gin promises to bring together up to 30 gins at each of its indoor and outdoor festival bars. With old favourites such as Gordon’s Gin alongside artisan and craft gins such as Roku Gin from Japan and Brooklyn Gin from the USA, the team has scoured the globe to hand-pick the best on the market. Each carefully curated tipple will be accompanied by tasting guides packed with tons of ginformation, as well as vouchers and discounts throughout the festival.

Live music and comedy are also set to return at Warner, with daily performances. A huge variety of acts have been booked for the 25-event series, including Strictly Come Dancing favourites Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag, 80s icon Toyah Wilcox and stage and screen favourite Darren Day. Simon Thompson, managing director of Warner Leisure Hotels, said: “With the final phase of reopening eagerly anticipated, we’re really looking forward to letting the good times be-gin at our new festivals.” He continues, “There’s huge appetite for people to enjoy meaningful and relaxing experiences again, and with the continued uncertainty about international travel, we’re looking forward to giving our guests a fun-filled summer in the safety and luxury of our 14 resorts. We know that guests have missed a year of their lives and are determined to live 2021 to the full, which is why we’ve made a £3million investment into new spaces for guests to enjoy during our Festivals of Gin, as well as continuing to offer our usual leisure opportunities, such as archery and spa treatments.”

To find out more and to book, visit www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk

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We create beautifully cinematic wedding lms that elegantly capture the memory of your special day

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We love a love story Situated on it's own private lake, De Vere Cotswold Water Park creates an idyllic backdrop for your special day Our seven unique wedding spaces are fully licensed for civil ceremonies with a choice of suites for both grand and more intimate weddings. Dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows maximize the views of the lake making this a truly unique wedding venue.

Delicious wedding breakfasts curated by our Executive Chef, luxury overnight accommodation, and the expertise of our experienced wedding coordinators; we'll ensure every detail is considered to create an unforgettable day.

WATERPARK.WEDDINGS@DEVERE.COM +44 (0)1285 864000 DEVERE.COM/DEVERECOTSWOLDWATERPARK Romantic wedding venues across the UK. View all our destinations at devere.com/weddings

FREEBIES & OFFERS

BAKE OFF Project Cakery based near Cirencester is owned by Holly Elphick after she re-launched her mum’s business in 2020. It started life in 2016 as Claire’s Kitchen, set up by Claire Elphick, who successfully built a thriving company serving the local community and making her deliveries on a bike. She became well-known by her many loyal customers for her scrumptious bread, cakes and pastries. Sadly, Claire became ill and the bakery closed in 2019 when she lost her battle with cancer. Eager to keep her memory alive, Holly worked hard to grow the business again and over the past year, has changed and adapted it to incorporate the current restrictions and also to meet her clients’ needs.

Holly creates mouth-watering wedding and celebration cakes, specialising in buttercream commissions, and has recently taken the step to open a cake studio in South Cerney. Due to open from the beginning of August, this will be a location for her to bake from, but also to offer in-house wedding tasters and consultations, as well as expanding to offer new bespoke treats.

Your Glos & Wilts Wedding has teamed up with Holly to offer readers a 10% discount on her wedding cakes on orders over £200. To find out more and to take advantage of our exclusive offer, call 07511 881 495 quoting YGWW28 or visit www.projectcakery.co.uk. All details about the new studio can be found on social media: www.instagram.com/projectcakery www.facebook.com/projectcakery

Freebies & OFFERS Take advantage of these great giveaways

WIN A NIGHT IN A WEDDING SUITE WITH MERCURE HOTELS Whether you’re planning a wedding, celebrating an anniversary or simply need a night away, this staycation prize is a welcome getaway treat courtesy of Interstate Hotels & Resorts.

At one of the most sought-after Mercure wedding venues in the UK, the lucky winner and their guest will stay in the best room in the house, the Wedding Suite, with dinner and breakfast at the hotel of their choice.

The Mercure Leeds Parkway Hotel is one of the most desirable wedding venues Yorkshire has to offer, set in the picturesque Golden Acres Park with formal gardens and a picturesque gazebo for dreamy outdoor weddings. While, The Mercure Chester Abbots Well Hotel is a tranquil four-star hotel set amongst two acres of landscaped gardens with a backdrop of beautiful rolling Cheshire countryside and Welsh mountains providing an idyllic setting for any wedding. Or, why not check out Cotswold’s Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall Hotel for character and setting? This four-star Georgian country house boasts 12 acres of its own park and woodland providing the perfect Gloucestershire backdrop for a truly scenic wedding.

These are only three of the seven properties you can choose from; all of which offer a wide range of wedding packages to suit all styles and

budgets all year round.

One winner will receive a night’s stay with a guest in a Wedding Suite at the Mercure hotel of their choice (from the selection of hotels listed on the County Wedding Magazines website) including dinner and breakfast.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER VIA OUR WEBSITE. Closing date: 8th October 2021 unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions apply.

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WEDDING CAR

Hannah Bendall Design

Immaculate Rolls Royce Silver Spur available to hire

Offering Venue Dressing and Seasonal flowers grown in Gloucestershire in the glorious Forest of Dean. Hannah also offers a Bespoke millinery service.

-

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

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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

www.stevelewisphoto.co.uk info@stevelewisphoto.co.uk 07779134116

Hannah THE Mad Hatter T: 01594 844409 ~ M: 07818 083690 @hannahthemadhattercouture E: hannahbendall@outlook.com www.hannahthemadhatter.co.uk 07818083690 | www.hannahbendalldesigns.co.uk

@flowersat46 @marchhareevents hannahbendall@outlook.com

20 The Beeches, Shaw, Melksham, Wiltshire, SN12 8EP

Spotlight on...

REGIONAL VENUES

WEDDING VENUES IN WEST WILTSHIRE

FONTHILL ESTATE, FONTHILL BISHOP

there’s a separate entrance and private staircase for the bride or groom to enter.

The Main Hall can set up to 120 guests for the ceremony and the covered Loggia situated outside in the pretty courtyard is open on one side allowing guests to gather and watch. Up to 50 people can be seated undercover on hay bales or benches with the remainder standing or sitting outside in the courtyard. Drinks and canapés can also be enjoyed in the courtyard while the wedding breakfast is served inside the main hall. Those wishing to dine al fresco against the uninterrupted views can do this by hiring a marquee to erect on the lawn and these vistas make fantastic backdrops for photographs with the lake and Beckford Arch both being recognised beauty spots.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01747 820 246, www.fonthill.co.uk www.facebook.com/fonthillestate www.instagram.com/fonthillestate ♥ We love... that with no neighbours nearby, there are no curfew and noise restrictions. https://angelawardbrown.com

https://angelawardbrown.com

Bake Barn is a restored shooting lodge perched in a private, remote spot in the Wiltshire Downs on the 9,000-acre Fonthill Estate. It’s one of three venues for hire on-site that also includes Quarry Wood, a stunning woodland spot where a wedding under a stretch tent can be held (turn to page 45 to see ideas in our exclusive shoot). Deer Park Barn is the third venue on the estate that’s best suited to micro weddings.

The modest stone and tiled exterior of Bake Barn, along with the pitched central glass doors, gives it an old-fashioned village school feel and it’s sheltered by a stone perimeter wall creating a courtyard effect. Partly grass and partly gravel with a covered loggia area, it’s a self-contained blank canvas ideal for a rural and rustic-inspired real wedding.

The interior boasts exposed beams and rafters, repointed stone walls and a wooden floor. A large fireplace at one end provides a focal point and a photo backdrop when decorated for a wedding. Natural light streams through the middle of the building which features glass doors on both sides and upstairs above the main hall, the Beater’s Loft is a light and airy industrial-style space for those seeking something a little more contemporary. Ceremonies take place here for up to 80 loved ones and

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WELLINGTON BARN, CALNE Nestled in a private spot in the Wiltshire Downs sits Wellington Barn, a romantic exclusive-use venue marrying contemporary and rustic features.

The exclusive-use historic red-brick and wooden-clad structure features a tall oak-beam vaulted ceiling. It also benefits from a large south-facing terrace, an oak gazebo and far-reaching views stretching across the wildflower meadow.

Ceremonies take place in the Old Barn for up to 100 guests which are adjoined to the New Barn that can host up to 200 loved ones. The pretty outdoor gazebo is also licensed for up to 200 people.

The New Barn offers versatility for the wedding breakfast seating up to 160 guests at round tables and also for the reception holding up to 300 party-goers for an evening cocktail party.

Three luxury en-suite shepherd’s huts located in the grounds provide

first-night accommodation (included in the venue fee) and glamping in bell tents is available for guests from April until September. There’s also a new modern luxury eco-house situated half a mile from the venue in a private setting overlooking a lake that sleeps between eight to 10 wedding guests.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01249 400 014, www.wellingtonbarn.co.uk www.facebook.com/wellingtonbarn www.instagram.com/wellington_barn ♥ We love... the pretty three-acre wildflower meadow in bloom from May to August, an Insta-worthy backdrop for photos.

THE MANOR HOUSE, CHIPPENHAM The Manor House is a 14th-century luxury hotel and golf club located in the historic village of Castle Combe offering a spectacular setting on 365 acres for weddings, first-night stays and staycation honeymoons. There are 21 opulent, individually styled rooms and suites and 29 picturesque on-site cottages including a new private cottage located in Castle Combe. Baker’s Cottage has added a self-catering option to the hotel’s already impressive line-up of accommodation. It’s a two-bedroom, dog-friendly property with a garden terrace, kitchen and lounge. The double bedroom, twin bedroom and sofa bed available in the lounge sleep up to four adults, ideal for wedding guests.

The championship-standard, 18-hole golf course is one of the best in the South West. The hotel is also home to the Michelin-starred Bybrook restaurant that has retained its Michelin star for the fifth consecutive year.

18

While this is an adult-only environment, there are informal areas that welcome children throughout the property. There’s also al fresco dining to be enjoyed on the outdoor terraces and a dedicated gin bar.

The village is also home to a sister venue, The Castle Inn, a 12th-century pub offering a relaxed dining experience for couples and families.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01249 782 982 www.exclusive.co.uk/the-manor-house www.facebook.com/ExclusiveTheManorHouseGolf ♥ We love... the convenient location in Wiltshire close to Bath, Bristol and the M4.

1981

MOTOR MUSEUM www.atwellwilson.org.uk

Wedding Car Hire Weddings - Up-dos - Special Occasions Hair-styling - Makeup

Choose the perfect car for your wedding day. We have a range of vintage and modern cars to choose from... n Call Tony o 871 07751 270ore to find out

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weddingcars@atwellwilson.org.uk | atwellwilson.org.uk

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

Rob Tarren

ENJOY MORE. LOVE MORE. LAUGH MORE life@elmorecourt.com

|

www.elmorecourt.com

Gary Nunn

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John Barwood

Gary Nunn

01452 720293

Suite dreams

THEMED VENUES

We reveal some of the chicest hotels including a hot new opening in Cheltenham

THE RED LION HOTEL, SALISBURY, WILTSHIRE This 800-year-old, four-star hotel marries historic features with everything you would expect from a modern hotel. It’s the oldest purpose-built hotel in Europe that has been tastefully decorated in keeping with the age and character of the original property.

Accessed through impressive gates, the vine-draped courtyard provides a charming backdrop for big-day photographs with its lion statues and fountains. Being just a five-minute walk from Salisbury Cathedral, this iconic building provides another photo option.

Ceremonies take place in the Marlborough Suite, the largest of the function rooms and one of two which make up the Courtyard Suite. It commands its own access from the courtyard, making it very private, and it’s a bright room filled with natural daylight. It also features a private bar and dancefloor, perfect for the reception, and can seat up to 60 guests for the wedding breakfast.

Adjacent to the Marlborough Suite is the Wellington Suite designed to open to the Courtyard Suite creating a large banqueting area for an evening function of up to 120 guests with its own entrance, toilets, dancefloor and bar.

The Vine Restaurant is tastefully decorated in keeping with the charm and character of the older parts of the hotel. A sympathetic extension saw the addition of a stunning conservatory that can seat up to 80 guests for the wedding breakfast.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01722 323 334 https://the-redlion.co.uk www.facebook.com/RedLionHotelSalisbury www.instagram.com/redlionhotelsalisbury ♥ We love... that newlyweds get a complimentary stay in the luxurious Seamstress Suite or a choice of the elegant four-poster bedrooms.

Wedding party guests are also offered a discounted room rate.

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THE GEORGE, CHELTENHAM, GLOUCESTERSHIRE Owned and run by Jade & Julian Dunkerton, The Lucky Onion is a family of boutique hotels and elegant country pubs located in the heart of the Cotswolds. Ever-expanding, the portfolio of properties, each with its distinct character and personality, all share the brand’s ethos for great design, high-quality food and drink and exceptional service.

Boutique hotels No. 131 and No. 38 The Park are located in Cheltenham, as well as The George which is the newest flagship hotel in the Cult Hotels collection which offers design-led hotels in some of the UK’s best towns and cities. Its cool, savvy concept has breathed life into the historic setting and it’s home to 46 bedrooms, sweeping staircases, ornate coving and elegant panelling paired with bold colours,

GRAY MANOR HOTEL, CHOLDERTON, WILTSHIRE This quirky, family-run hotel and exclusive-use wedding venue sits on five acres of land with the exterior flanked by jasmine and clematis trailing the walls during summer. Inside, there are plenty of Instaworthy touches with its shabby chic styling. The comfortable bedrooms accommodate up to 60 wedding guests and there’s a designerinspired bridal suite decorated in black and gold.

Ceremonies take place in a choice of three spaces with a flexible seated banqueting area for the wedding breakfast for up to 180 guests. There’s a dancefloor and room for live musicians or a DJ, and couples can make use of the complimentary decorative touches offered such as chair sashes, centrepieces, flowers, table gems and napkins.

Outside is a photographer’s dream, with a magical secret garden 22

mismatched textures and industrial design.

While it’s not licensed for weddings, it’s the perfect pick for guest accommodation or a staycation honeymoon.

Ceremony licence? No Contact: 01242 650 675, www.culthotels.com/locations/the-george www.instagram.com/cult_hotels ♥ We love... sister properties The Wheatsheaf, The Tavern, The Hollow Bottom and The Crown Inn. Turn to page nine to read more.

propped with quirky pieces of furniture and atmospheric lighting, ideal for al fresco summer celebrations. There’s a Japanese pergola that acts as a wonderful backdrop for photos, as well as the pretty rose flower bed.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01980 629 542, www.graymanorhotel.co.uk www.facebook.com/graymanorhotel ♥ We love... the flexible wedding packages, free menu tasting sessions for couples who have booked a wedding at the venue and the exceptional customer service with couples and family members invited back for anniversaries and other special dates.

THEMED VENUES

TEWKESBURY PARK, GLOUCESTERSHIRE Tewkesbury Park is set in 165 acres of parkland commanding an enviable position overlooking the famous site of the 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury. It’s just five minutes from junction nine on the M5 on the doorstep of Tewkesbury and within easy reach of Cheltenham, Gloucester and Worcester.

In 2019, the family-owned hotel, golf course and spa completed an extensive four-year renovation costing £10 million. This saw the addition of nine luxury historic suites, two new spa rooms, two meeting rooms, an orangery, a cocktail lounge, a wood-fired pizza oven and an outdoor terrace. Recently, 17 new outdoor garden terrace rooms have also been added, turn to page nine to read more.

The Cotswolds Suite, an event suite with a glass façade, offers panoramic views and accommodates guests for the ceremony and

reception. It can be subdivided into three equal sections; The Broadway Suite adjacent to the golf putting green; The Burford Suite which is the middle room and The Bibury Suite built next to the exclusive-use Berkeley Lounge, bar and terrace. It’s fully air-conditioned and features a video wall.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01684 272 300, www.tewkesburypark.co.uk www.facebook.com/TewkesburyPark www.instagram.com/tewkesburypark ♥ We love... the main restaurant, Mint, offering informal dining with delicious dishes made using the highest-quality ingredients.

CHISELDON HOUSE HOTEL AND RESTAURANT, SWINDON, WILTSHIRE This wisteria-clad country manor house dating back to 1826 is nestled within three acres of pretty landscaped gardens in the Wiltshire countryside. The stone façade provides a beautiful backdrop for big-day photos and the interior is home to many traditional features including fireplaces, statement chandeliers and a stunning staircase.

Outdoor ceremonies take place under the thatched summerhouse located within the private secluded courtyard where up to 180 guests can gather. The picturesque courtyard and grounds are also a photographer’s dream, with Instaworthy touches at every turn including secluded wooded areas and pretty manicured gardens.

Alternatively, the indoor Borelli Suite overlooking the gardens seats

up to 60 guests for the ceremony and is flooded with natural daylight.

The reception can also be held here or there’s also the restaurant as another option.

Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01793 741 010, www.chiseldonhouse.com www.facebook.com/ChiseldonHouse www.instagram.com/chiseldonhouse ♥ We love... the exclusive-use wedding packages including one designed with micro weddings in mind.

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Marry me!

Kelly and Tim’s wedding at Hyde House in Gloucestershire enjoyed a rose-gold colour theme Images courtesy of Vita Vestra Photography

Kelly Taylor married Tim Howell on 28th March 2019 at Hyde House in Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire.

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REAL WEDDINGS

K

elly and Tim met via an online dating app in 2015. “It was a picture of him wearing an Exeter Chief headpiece after watching them play rugby that did it for me!” Kelly tells us. Tim adds, “It was Kelly’s dark hair and signature red lipstick that caught my eye.”

The couple became engaged during a surprise proposal in New York on Kelly’s 30th birthday. “We were so excited to visit the city ahead of Christmas but I had no idea that he was going to propose,” Kelly tells us. “My birthday fell on the last day of our trip and we had an evening ticket booked to visit the Empire State Building. We were on the top level when I turned around and saw Tim holding a ring box open with the most beautiful ring inside. How he managed to get it through security at the airport I’ll never know although I now know that he put it in his hold luggage - if it were me, I wouldn’t have let it out of my sight!”

SETTING THE SCENE “Growing up, I had always envisaged a barn wedding,” Kelly tells us. “I remember being about 18 years of age and looking at wedding barns all the time online. After we became engaged, I went to view Hyde House with my mum and sister, thinking that maybe we’d need to keep searching but as soon as we arrived, I had fallen in love there and then. The fact that the ceremony and

“I felt nervous most of the morning but also excited to see everyone and especially to see Kelly.” - Tim

25

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REAL WEDDINGS reception could be held there and that our guests could stay in the same place as us was so important.”

The couple styled their special day with a rose-gold colour theme and plenty of green foliage. “We made our marble table plan that was written with rose-gold calligraphy,” Kelly tells us. “We placed this on a wire background and added some foliage and it looked wonderful mounted on its stand. Our place names doubled up as our favours that our guests could take away with them - they were shards of glass edged with a rose-gold trim featuring the hand-written names in calligraphy.”

The couple’s order of the day was displayed on a rustic wooden pallet and also featured the matching calligraphy. “We kept the pallet and weather-proofed it and now it’s in our back garden as a reminder of our special day,” Kelly says. “Our table names were a nod to our trip to New York after a few of our favourite places including the Brooklyn Bridge and Times Square.”

The couple decorated the exposed beams in the barn with white drapes suspended above the top table and paper lanterns hanging at different heights. Their table centrepieces were elegant rose gold terrariums filled with foliage, cream roses, lilies and gypsophila which matched their other choice of flowers. “My bouquet consisted of cream and rose-gold coloured roses with foliage and gypsophila all tied together with a rose-gold ribbon,” Kelly tells us. “Our bridesmaids all held a smaller version of my bouquet and our mums both wore buttonholes created with a white rose, a lily and foliage. The groomsmen had the same with an added blue thistle to match their suits.”

On either side of the top table, the couple displayed two large lanterns that their florist filled with roses, lilies and foliage that cascaded down the front of the pillars that they were placed on. “They looked fantastic and made such a statement. On each pew end, we tied beautiful bunches of gypsophila with twine which coordinated all of the flowers together,” Kelly says.

The couple ordered a three-tiered naked vanilla sponge cake from Marks & Spencer. “I made a Mr and Mrs Howell cake topper and added gypsophila as decoration,” Kelly says. “We were told that it tasted lovely but Tim and I never got around to eating any!”

Kelly, Tim and their guests tucked into a three-course wedding breakfast created by the talented team at the venue. “In the evening, we fed our guests a hot buffet of burgers, pizza and chips,” Kelly says.

LOOKING THE PART Kelly wore a dress by the designer Mori Lee. “I never thought I’d choose this style,” she explains. “I had in my mind that I wanted an Audrey Hepburn-style dress with sleeves but I chose the opposite! It was style no 5608 - a sleeveless halterneck ballgown with a racer-style back and crystal beading on the bodice. My mum kindly bought my veil for me that had diamanté beads sewn along the edge and a diamanté hair comb.”

The couple’s groomsmen wore blue three-piece suits, cream ties and tan brogue shoes. “Tim wore the same teamed with a tweed waistcoat to look different to the others and added the pocket watch that I had presented him with as a wedding gift,” Kelly says. “It was engraved with a message and our wedding date.”

The couple’s bridesmaids all wore matching rose-gold knee-length dresses featuring a tulle skirt with a beaded bodice paired with strappy sandals.”

TIME TO ENTERTAIN During the evening, the couple hired a live band to entertain their guests.

“The dad of one of my bridesmaids played in the band,” Kelly tells us.

“When we were younger, us girls would go and watch him at gigs so it was always going to be my choice to have him playing at our wedding.

We also had a photo booth which everyone loved. The props were so much fun and provided everyone with a photo as a memory.”

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“I was too busy making sure that everything was in the correct place to feel nervous. It was only when I was in my dress walking down the stairs to meet the registrar that I felt the nerves kick in but I was so excited at the same time.” - Kelly

THE DREAM TEAM Photographer | 07498 259 730 | Vita Vestra Photography | www.vitavestraphotography.co.uk Videographer | Offbeat Films | 07502 416 911 | www.offbeatfilms.co.uk Venue | Hyde House | 01451 830 354 | https://hyde-house.uk Venue styling | Every Event Hire | 01452 372 419 | www.every-event-hire.co.uk Dress | Mori Lee at All About Eve | 01633 243 943 | www.allaboutevebridalwear.com Wedding shoes | Charlotte Mills | https://charlottemills.com Suits | Cayzers | 01633 258 877 | www.cayzersmenswear.co.uk Cake | M&S | www.marksandspencer.com Wedding stationery | Polkadot Paper | www.polkadotpaper.com Make-up & hair | Charlotte Tillyer Hair & Make up Artist | 07967 346 958 | www.charlottetillyer.co.uk Calligraphy | Emerald Paper Design | www.emeraldpaperdesign.com Flowers | Haze Lea Floral Design | 07598 835 544 | https://hazelea.co.uk Band | The Right Track | www.facebook.com/The-Right-Track-1946030932131231 28

THE

WARDROBE WALLED GARDEN WEDDINGS

A newly launched wedding and events venue in the heart of historic Salisbury.

A marquee will be positioned in the beautiful garden (your choice of style) and we can accommodate up to 150 guests. For smaller numbers a reduced sized marquee is available.

The Wardrobe is a secret hideaway located to the rear of the Rifleman’s Museum. It is situated in the tranquil setting of the cathedral close and the wonderful garden leads down to the banks of the river Avon. With the rolling countryside beyond, it is difficult to imagine a better location within the Salisbury city limits for any outdoor event, be it a wedding reception, celebration or garden party.

The on-site caterer is the award-winning Vanilla Catering & Events.

Vanilla’s key ethics are attention to customer service and the use of top quality local ingredients. These result in bright, modern food styles presented with attention to detail in an unfussy yet friendly manner. A bespoke menu is created for each client and a complimentary wedding planner is provided to run your special day.

An interesting fact: did you know why we are we called The Wardrobe?

The original building on the site was constructed in 1254. It was rebuilt in the 15th century and was used to store the robes of the Bishop of Salisbury; hence it was known as the “Bishop’s Wardrobe” or “The Wardrobe”!

The walled garden is totally enclosed and private covering over half an acre. It also has numerous specimen trees including one of the finest copper beach trees in Wiltshire.

The walled garden can be privately hired for your wedding, party or event.

www.wardrobeweddings.co.uk | @wardrobeweddings www.vanillacatering.co.uk | 01489 589 275 | sally@vanillacatering.co.uk

THE WARDROBE 58 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2EX

F ROM SMALL IN T IMAT E W E DDING S W ITH 10 G U E S T S TO GR AN D REC EPT IONS OF MOR E THAN 2 00 G U E S T S, THE RN B SINGER UK C AN C ATE R TO YOU R NE E D S. Whether you want to walk down the isle to Jagged Edge’s “Let’s Get Married” or party the night away to Montell Jordan’s “This Is How We Do It”, The RnB Singer UK is your man!

WWW.T HERNBS ING E RU K .C OM 07940 177253 | info@thernbsingeruk.com

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

REAL WEDDINGS

surprise!

SURPRISE,

Sarah and Andrew kept their nuptials quiet and invited guests to what they thought was an engagement party Images courtesy of James Fear Photography

S

arah and Andrew met at the Cheltenham races.

“Andrew is from London so he came back to Cheltenham for our first date a few weeks after we met and that date lasted for three days!” Sarah tells us. “We went on holiday together three weeks later and he pretty much moved in with me after that.”

The couple became engaged during a surprise proposal. “Andrew asked me to marry him on the 23rd of August 2019,” Sarah explains. “He created a treasure hunt around Cheltenham of all our favourite places and he was waiting for me at the Hotel du Vin & Bistro where we had enjoyed our first date - it was a wonderful surprise!”

Here, Sarah tells us all about their surprise ceremony at Ellenborough Park followed by a reception at The Daffodil.

Sarah Fardon married Andrew Thorndyke on 30th December 2019 in a ceremony at the Old Chapel at Ellenborough Park in Cheltenham, followed by a reception at The Daffodil.

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We surprised all of our guests – nobody knew they were attending a wedding, everyone thought that they were coming to our engagement party! The day guests were all given cards explaining everything.

Our evening gu ests were told th at we got mar ri dad gave a spee ed earlier that ch before Andre day. My w and I walke d down the stai outfits - the su rs in our pport from ever yone was amaz ing!

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te in Ellenborough Park country esta Andrew loves horse racing and gallops the and t poin the Cotswolds’ highest Cheltenham is nestled between theme. ian estr equ an ys us racecourse and enjo of Cheltenham’s world-famo Old the so n’t) did rew church (although And I wanted to get mar ried in a e. mis pro com ect hotel was the perf Chapel on the grounds of this

REAL WEDDINGS

We didn’t have a table plan at The Daffodil – we opted for food stalls serving dishes related to the different countries that we have visited together including a Caribbean option serving jerk chicken and rum punch, a Miami-themed food stall feeding guests burgers and cocktails and an Iceland-themed table offering hot dogs and Icelandic beers.

Alongside our sta tement wedding ca ke that was made by my best friend’s mum Julie , an other friend, Jennifer, made us a smaller cake to en joy after the ceremony and a ma caron tower which looked, and tasted, incredible!

nment t offered the ideal enviro The Daffodil restauran 1920s tucked away inside a to host a large party. It’s features many Art Deco period cinema and is home to ase. and a sweeping stairc

We also had a sw eet

ie table which all

of our guests loved !

a treat – ice sculpture that went down We had a large Vodka Luge gover kits! turns so our favours were han ever yone had a few too many

Our beautiful flowers featured white roses teamed with foliage. We also had roses, along with candles, dotted down either side of the aisle.

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I wore a stunning dress during the evening by the designer Suzanne Neville.

I also wore my grandmother’s diamond earrings, a pair of gold strappy sandals and my something blue was my garter!

Cheltenham so I chose I own Sarah Elizabeth Bridal Boutique in dress I wore during the day something from each of my designers. The was by the designer Caroline Castigliano.

My veil was by Britis h bridal designer Sassi Holford, and I kept wa during our December rm day in a bridal cape by Stephanie Allin.

“We both couldn’t stop smiling all day!” – Sarah and Andrew Andrew wore a black suit with a velvet jacket.

The groomsmen were dressed in traditional black tie looks with waistcoats.

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REAL WEDDINGS

by an We had an amazing singer perform some old favourites at Ellenborough Park followed the day of part important very a was music the Daffodil The at amazing eight-piece live band for us both and we all partied hard!

Our beautiful bridesmaids wore full-length one-shoulder dresses.

, rose-gold

THE DREAM TEAM Photographer, James Fear Photography, www.fearphotography.com | Ceremony venue, The Daffodil, 01242 700 055, https://thedaffodil.com Reception venue, Ellenborough Park, 01242 545 454, www.ellenboroughpark.com | Catering (champagne and canapés), Ellenborough Park, 01242 545 454, www.ellenboroughpark.com | Catering (food stalls), The Daffodil, 01242 700 055, https://thedaffodil.com | Dresses and accessories, Sarah Elizabeth Bridal Boutique, 01242 257 103, www.sarahelizabethbridal.co.uk | Make-up, Alexandra Sinclair Makeup Artist and Tan Specialist, 07811 525 845, www.facebook.com/AlexandraSinclairbeauty101 | Hair stylist, Hair By Jade, www.instagram.com/hair_by_jade Bridesmaids’ dresses, Vita Grace, 0333 400 0423, www.vitagrace.co.uk | Groom’s suit, Hugo Boss, www.hugoboss.com | Groomsmen’s suits, French Connection, www.frenchconnection.com | Smaller wedding cake and macaron tower, Jennifer Edwards Cakes, 07968 269 625, www.facebook.com/jenniferedwardscakes | Flowers, Stephanie Saunders Luxury Floral Design, 07854 624 982, www.stephaniesaundersflowers.co.uk | Stationery, Louise Rowles Design, 01453 889 527, https://louiserowlesdesigns.co.uk/index.html Entertainment, The RnB Singer UK, 07940 177 253, http://thernbsingeruk.com 35

statement

MAKING A

Helen and Shane’s big day at Woodchester Mansion in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire enjoyed a classy gothic theme with ivory and black touches Images courtesy of Rob Golding Photography

Helen and Shane Cox married at Woodchester Mansion in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire on 18th September 2020.

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H

elen and Shane met through a group of photographers and models. “We both shared the same passions for photography and music and enjoyed a similar sense of humour which were big attractions for each of us,” Helen says.

The couple became engaged during a surprise proposal on the 18th of May 2019 at Ely Cathedral in Cambridgeshire. “There was a science exhibition taking place there where a large sculpture of the moon was being featured,” Helen tells us. “I love the moon so Shane set his camera up so that we could get some cute couple shots beneath it. Then, out of the blue, he got down on one knee and proposed to me. It was a very elaborate surprise and so romantic – he had been planning it for months!”

MICRO WEDDING SPECIAL

SETTING THE SCENE The history of Woodchester Mansion, as well as its unique gothic beauty, attracted the couple. “The team are kindly letting us have venue hire there on our first anniversary this September, almost to the date that we got married there, so that we can have a mock vow renewal ceremony and a large evening reception,” Helen says. “We will invite all of the guests who weren’t able to make it to our actual wedding due to the restrictions in place at the time.”

Shane had to enter the ceremony room after the registrars.

“He took the opportunity to enter to his own choice of wedding music, a song from his favourite band Mötley Crüe called Kickstart My Heart,” Helen describes.

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LOOKING THE PART “My dress was champagne-coloured which I loved. I teamed it with a tiara, necklace and a bracelet which was a gift from Shane,” Helen tells us. “He looked like a rock star in his sharp black suit teamed with Converse trainers and his best man wore the same.”

The only pop of colour was in the red roses that Helen had in her bouquet and in the buttonholes and flowers that lined the aisle, plus those that were placed in the table decorations. “The red complimented the ruby stones in our wedding rings,” she tells us. “We purchased fresh flowers from our local supermarket and made all of the beautiful arrangements ourselves and I purchased paper flowers (and skull pins) to create the buttonholes with.”

Helen chose a pair of statement heels with spikes to accessorise her dress with. “They were amazing!” she tells us.

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www.captures.com

The mansion is nicknamed the Unfinished Gothic Masterpiece so the couple didn’t want to cover up any of its features with their décor. Their ivory and black colour theme with a classy gothic feel was very suited to the venue. “We wanted everything to be simple yet elegant with a touch of tradition incorporated into it,” Helen says. “We designed our invites and place names and our friend Emma Dooley made them for us. They featured a sketch of the mansion as well as a skull-shaped card that opened to reveal the details of the day.”

The couple’s cake was made by Helen’s cousin Chloe Griffiths.

“Everyone loved it!” Helen tells us. “The bottom tier was raspberry and white chocolate-flavoured, the middle tier was chocolate and fudge and the top tier was my favourite – toffee and caramel apple. Chloe created that flavour in a batch of cupcakes that she had made the previous year and I knew then that I had to have it in my wedding cake when the time came! Our cake topper featured two skeletons as a nod to our gothic theme.”

Another friend of the couple got involved in their wedding planning.

“My hair and make-up were done by my friend Claire Bacon,” Helen tells us. “She did a terrific job!”

MICRO WEDDING SPECIAL “Being able to get married during a worldwide pandemic was very emotional because it was hit-and-miss as to whether or not the wedding would go ahead. We had to limit our guest numbers but it meant we could have our special day on the date that we wanted it.” – Helen and Shane

“Stonehouse Court Hotel, where we stayed on our wedding night, was a lovely property and offered really good food.” – Helen and Shane

THE DREAM TEAM Photographer, Rob Golding Photography, https://instagram.com/g_o_l_d_i_n_g?utm_medium=copy_link | Venue, Woodchester Mansion, 01453 861 541, www.woodchestermansion.org.uk | Catering, Berry Blue Creative Food, 01453 790 669, http://berry-blue.co.uk Dress, Grand Jour Bridal Boutique, 01452 699 018, www.grandjour.co.uk | Bride’s accessories, Royal Collection Trust, 0845 330 2898, www.royalcollectionshop.co.uk | Suit, Slater Menswear, 01242 224 494, www.slaters.co.uk | Groom’s shoes, Converse, www.converse.com/uk Wedding rings, R.J. Spicer Goldsmith, 01242 574 871, www.rjspicer.com | Transport, Vintage Triumph Weddings, 01453 764 734, www.vintagetriumphcars.com | Entertainment, South West Discos, 01452 379 125, www.southwestdiscosdirect.com First-night accommodation, Stonehouse Court Hotel, 01453 794 950, www.stonehousecourt.co.uk

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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

Bright young things

REGIONAL INSPIRATION

Fonthill Estate in Wiltshire offers three stunning venues for weddings. Stylist Rosie Barrett collaborated with photographer Angela Ward Brown, and a selection of local suppliers, to style an indoor ceremony and sit-down wedding breakfast at Bake Barn, a restored shooting lodge. The tables were decorated with blue and white pottery brimming with blossom, white lilac, delphiniums and daisies alongside cornflower-blue water tumblers and fresh oranges that added a pop of colour. The bespoke stationery captured the essence of the shoot perfectly, featuring a hand-drawn impression of the barn.

The bride (dressed in a vintage gown) and groom travelled across the estate in a Jaguar XK120, stopping to pose by the lake in the bluebell woods before heading on to Quarry Wood, a clearing offering outdoor ceremony and dining options. Here, a 1920s-themed picnic scene was displayed under a stretch tent dressed with sofas, rugs and tables.

The final destination was Deer Park Barn for dinner at dusk in the courtyard boasting far-flung views of the surrounding parkland. This secluded micro celebration glowed under the romantic festoon lighting and by the sparklers and firepit.

Images courtesy of Angela Ward Brown

https://youtu.be/0b1fBYZf61Y

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REGIONAL INSPIRATION

THE DREAM TEAM Venue and planning, Bake Barn at Fonthill Estate, 01747 820 246, www.fonthill.co.uk | Photography, Angela Ward Brown, https://angelawardbrown.com | Concept and styling, Rosie B Design & Planning, 07970 057 408, www.rosiebarrett.co.uk Furniture, dp marquees, 01258 452 539, https://dpmarquees.co.uk | Stretch Tent, Q&R Events, 07823 557 073, www.qandrevents.co.uk Tableware, Fabulous Company, 07568 371 625, www.fabulouscompany.co.uk | Flowers, Milston Flower Barn, 07881 930 677, www.milstonflowerbarn.co.uk | Candles, Smith & The Magpie, 07312 112 792, https://smithandthemagpie.com | Stationery, Penelope Margot Design, 07872 590 749, www.penelopemargotdesign.co.uk | Cake, Lisa Notley Cake Design, 07818 201 074, https://lisanotleycakedesign.co.uk | Cake Table, Matthew Burt Studio, www.instagram.com/matthewburtstudio | Make-up artist, Amazing Face Bridal Hair & Makeup Dorset, 07919 130 222, www.facebook.com/Amazingfacedorset | Hair stylist, Natalie Forsbrey Hair, www.instagram.com/natalieforsbreyhair | Accessories, Victoria Fergusson Accessories, 07899 923 098, www.victoriafergusson.co.uk Dress and lace-cap veil, Tara Bradley Birt, Tara Bradley-Birt, www.instagram.com/tarabradleybirt | Vintage Gowns, A Lover’s Thread www.aloversthread.com | Shoes, Esska, https://esskashoes.com | Car, Modbox, www.modbox.co.uk | Models, @mitziwizzy @jtkeenan 43

07919 130222 http:instagram.com/amazing_facedorset/ www.amazing-face.co.uk

01525 633 994 | elli@currancalligraphy.com

W W W. C U R R A N C A L L I G R A P H Y . C O . U K

FRIENDLY AND PROFESSIONAL DORSET B ASED HAIRDRESSER WITH MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE 07747 037 330

NATALIEFORSBREYHAIR

NATALIE FORSBREY BESPOKE HAIR

REGIONAL INSPIRATION

Fun with foliage

In the first of two shoots at exclusive-use wedding venue The Barn at Upcote in Gloucestershire, photographer Rob Tarren and Lyla Gibb from The Cotswold Wedding Company collaborated with an expert team of local suppliers to create this rustic-inspired look perfect for an autumnal wedding. A bouquet brimming with foliage was mirrored in the table garland and statement chair back, and the festoon beam installations added a romantic touch Images courtesy of Rob Tarren Photography

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THE DREAM TEAM Photographer: Rob Tarren Photography, 07590 529 883, https://robtarren.co.uk Stylist: The Cotswold Wedding Company, 01242 374 303, www.cotswoldweddingco.com Venue: The Barn at Upcote, 01242 890 332, https://thebarnatupcote.co.uk Stationery: Bellapeach Creative, 07900 695 661, www.bellapeach.co.uk Cake: Donna Louise Cake Design, 07733 125 920, www.donnalouisecakedesign.co.uk Tableware: China Boy Hire, 01684 293 755, https://cbhire.co.uk Trestle tables and chairs: West Country Marquees, 01242 300 054, www.westcountrymarquees.co.uk Bridal gown and accessories: Posy & Pearl, 01285 656 994, www.posyandpearl.co.uk Hair and make-up: Face Perfect Hair & Make-up by Jodi, 07595 270 200, www.faceperfectbyjodi.co.uk Florist: Milston Flower Barn, 07881 930 677, www.milstonflowerbarn.co.uk Model: Camala 46

I N V ITE ‘HUGO’

TO YOUR WEDDING RECEPTION! Hugo is a gorgeous vintage HY van. We cook sweet and savoury crêpes, suiting all dietary/age requirements, and supply everything for your guests. All you need to do is choose the menu. As a premier food outlet, all our utensils and tableware are 100% recyclable. We can also supply hot beverages and liqueurs.

W W W.CAR O L IN E S L I T T L E K I T C H E N. O R G . U K 07919 440146

@carolineslittlekitchen

Carolines Little Kitchen

Amore Prosecco is one man’s dream to serve you one of the finest Italian Prosecco and Frizzante Sparkling Wine in a classic Italian style Paolo the Prosecco Van is an Innocenti Lambro, manufactured in Milan in 1963.

He has being lovingly restored into a mobile Prosecco and cocktail bar. Paolo is very cute and being 9ft long, 5ft wide, and under 6ft high, we can squeeze him into the smallest of places inside or out. He now resides in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside and is ready to travel near and far to serve you at your Wedding.

www.amoreprosecco.co.uk 07753 342 777 | johnormshaw@hotmail.co.uk

Or why not hire our very cool and unique Bubble Barrel Bar? Don’t be fooled by its size this baby packs a punch, serving up 160 drinks per 20L keg.

Muted mauve

This hot new shade is emerging for wedding season, softer than the ever-popular colour purple, which looks pretty incorporated into statement floral chandeliers and table centrepieces Images courtesy of Rob Tarren Photography

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REGIONAL INSPIRATION

THE DREAM TEAM

Photographer: Rob Tarren Photography, 07590 529 883, https://robtarren.co.uk Stylist: The Cotswold Wedding Company, 01242 374 303, www.cotswoldweddingco.com Venue: The Barn at Upcote, 01242 890 332, https://thebarnatupcote.co.uk Stationery: Bellapeach Creative, 07900 695 661, www.bellapeach.co.uk Cake: Donna Louise Cake Design, 07733 125 920, www.donnalouisecakedesign.co.uk Tableware: China Boy Hire, 01684 293 755 , https://cbhire.co.uk 49

A TWIST ON TRADITION

Exclusive-use wedding venue Eastington Park in Gloucestershire was the magnificent backdrop for this elegant shoot styled with contemporary touches created by a team of talented local suppliers Images courtesy of Khya Watts Photography

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REGIONAL INSPIRATION

THE DREAM TEAM Photography | Khya Watts Photography | 07951 465 000 | www.cotswoldwedding.co.uk Venue | Eastington Park Weddings & Events | 01453 827 926 | www.eastingtonpark.co.uk Florist | The Flower Shop | 01453 824 426 | www.theflowershopstonehouse.co.uk Hair stylist | Lauren Gosling Bridal Specialist | www.laurengoslinghair.com Make-up artist | Amy Rose Make Up | https://www.amyrosebridalmakeup.com Dress | The Cotswold Frock Shop | 01451 832 309 | https://thecotswoldfrockshop.co.uk Model | Sophie York | www.instagram.com/sophieyorkx 51

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

Follow us on Twitter: @CountyWeddings Follow us on Pinterest: County Weddings

CAKES DESIGNED AND MADE W I T H S K I L L A N D PASS I O N I’m a self taught Baker and decided to turn my love of baking from a hobby to a business. I have now served in the industry for 6 years. Creating bespoke cakes and cupcakes for all occasions, with love.

Facebook @LottieLovesCupcakes 07716843583 | amanda@lottielovescupcakes.co.uk

sweet THE

CAKES

SPOT

www.gettyimages.co.uk

We reveal some of the finest new designs best suited to small, bespoke celebrations

GLAMOROSE CAKES

FOND OF CAKES Georgina Patel is an accomplished Wiltshire-based cake designer and baker, and owner of Fond of Cakes. She creates beautiful, modern and delicious bespoke designs for weddings.

Flavours include lime and coconut, chocolate orange and mocha coffee. There’s also mouth-watering peaches and prosecco and Turkish delight. Her Golden Birds design is ideal for a micro wedding as is her New Dawn swan-inspired cake.

Her taller designs can be made with dummy tiers meaning couples can enjoy a larger cake for a smaller wedding without adding too many portions.

Book a consultation and tasting session for a fully refundable £25 if an order is made and sample five of Georgina’s flavours.

Or, have them delivered directly to your door with freshness guaranteed. All cakes are baked to order at her Salisbury premises and she uses only free-range eggs, ethically sourced from local farmers where possible.

This local business is owned and run by Jessie Dennis who opened her first cupcake boutique in Swindon, Wiltshire and last year, a franchise saw a second shop opening in Cirencester, Gloucestershire.

Each cake is handmade on-site and the mouth-watering selection of cupcake flavours, which make a great alternative to a larger wedding cake for micro weddings, include lemon meringue and salted caramel.

There are pizza brownies, perfect for the evening reception, and the team recently launched a new delivery service where customers can order online and have their cakes delivered directly to their door.

Another new addition is the beautiful celebration cakes for weddings.

Couples can choose from a single tier or two or three tiers and designs include drip cakes and those decorated with macarons or roses. Their layered cakes are also proving extremely popular, with layers of equal size placed on top of one another separated with filling. There’s also a cute Mr & Mrs cake topper available priced at just £5.

LET’S EAT CAKE: 07716 836 552, https://glamorosecakes.co.uk www.facebook.com/glamorosecakes

LET’S EAT CAKE: 07514 493 516, www.fondofcakes.co.uk www.facebook.com/FondOfCakes www.instagram.com/fondofcakesgp 53

www.instagram.com/thelittlestudiophotography

www.gettyimages.co.uk

PROJECT CAKERY Holly Elphick is the owner of Project Cakery (formerly Claire’s Kitchen) based in South Cerney near Cirencester. She took over her late mum’s business and is now a wedding and celebration cake designer, specialising in buttercream commissions. Read more about Holly’s story on page 15 and enjoy 10% off any order over £200 with our exclusive offer.

Holly was excited to reveal her new intimate buttercream wedding cake, mini croquembouche tower, wedding cookies and two-tiered, bohemian-style nature cake with a dummy tier (caught on camera by https://captureeverymoment.co.uk).

LET’S EAT CAKE: 07511 881 495, www.projectcakery.co.uk Instagram.com/projectcakery Facebook.com/projectcakery

COTSWOLD RUSTIC CAKES Maryanne Stefanovic runs this small bespoke cake business based in Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire specialising in floral buttercream wedding and occasion designs. Her carrot and walnut cake printed with an edible hummingbird design is topped with pink florals and meringue kisses and was caught on camera by Josie Cope from The Little Studio Photography (www.instagram.com/ thelittlestudiophotography) at Cotswolds-based wedding venue Sezincote (www.sezincote.co.uk) alongside her tiered wedding cake.

The top tier of this statement piece features carrot and orange flavours with cream cheese frosting while the bottom tier includes a zesty lemon with passionfruit curd, buttercream stencil and gold leaf.

Maryanne has also developed a raspberry and white chocolate cake perfect for an intimate wedding. The raspberry sponge is topped with layers of raspberry conserve and is decorated with white chocolate buttercream, chocolate pieces, foraged blossom, bright roses, macarons and meringue kisses. One of my favourites of hers has to be the carrot and walnut sponge decorated with layers of cream cheese frosting, walnuts, pink American buttercream, carnations and roses. Finally, she makes a mean chocolate mud cake with coconut and raspberry buttercream!

LET’S EAT CAKE: https://cotswoldrusticcake.wixsite.com/ cotswoldrusticcakes www.instagram.com/cotswoldrusticcakes

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Bespoke wedding cakes handmade by Isabel

Contact us at Isabel@isabelsbakehouse.com 07966 592 368 Visit us online at www.isabelsbakehouse.com

AD-RAINS - COACHES -

Weddings and special events

Georgina Patel

Wiltshire Cake Designer Captivating, modern and delicious bespoke cakes for all tastes

VINTAGE COACHES & MODERN COACHES

w w w. a d r a i n s c o a c h e s . c o m 01666 510874 enquiries@adrainscoaches.co.uk

www.fondofcakes.co.uk

E: fondofcakes@outlook.com | T: 07514493516

www.stuartdudleston.com

HOT TOPIC

Our experts answer your big-day questions

A SUSTAINABLE DAY

We want an exclusive-use Wiltshire wedding venue that offers a sustainable option for our eco-friendly wedding. Where can you suggest?

Meet the team: Joseph and Isabella Wookey own Chalk, an exclusiveuse barn wedding venue located near Rushall in Wiltshire.

The interiors inside Chalk Barn are stunning, offering an organic feel and a natural style, setting the perfect background reflecting the surroundings.

Simple yet sophisticated, it’s a wonderful backdrop to any event ranging from a rustic-inspired wedding to a contemporary celebration. The floor-to-ceiling windows frame views across the infinity lawn stretching for miles and the garden is landscaped to create spaces that allow guests to enjoy the natural Wiltshire wildlife.

Wildflowers in abundance encourage a variety of biodiversity to make the surroundings rich with life, whilst also providing alternative spaces for photos and food trucks. The venue is sustainable with the water, heating and electricity all produced on-site.

BEHIND THE LENS

We want to ensure fantastic wedding photographs – do you have any top tips?

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.

Daniella says: Whether it’s an intimate or lavish affair, couples need to feel comfortable with their choice of wedding photographer and there are some important things for them to consider. Firstly, request a video call if you can’t arrange to meet them in person at a wedding fair or their studio. This is important so that you can get to know their personality.

Have images ready to show them of how you envisage your day and point out what you like about different photographer’s work. Be clear about what you want but remember that the photographer is only as good as the surroundings and opportunities presented to them.

Always try to provide a must-have list of shots of family members.

When couples say they want the natural candid images, they usually also require the staged shots of their loved ones.

A timeline for the wedding day is crucial because a photographer works with this to see whether there will be enough time to get everything done in an unobtrusive way (bearing in mind the weather forecast). Most venues will provide a timeline of the day one month 56

Ceremonies take place outside under the arbour or in the main area of the barn offering far-flung views of the Pewsey Vale for up to 150 guests, while receptions take place on the infinity lawn or in the main barn.

Couples receive a complimentary menu tasting if they book a wedding at the barn. They also have the option to stay in The Hide on their wedding night which is secluded in woodland boasting views of the lake. The romantic hut features a king-size bed, free-standing copper bath, wood burner and a continental breakfast is provided.

Chalk | 01980 630 938 | www.atchalk.co.uk www.facebook.com/atchalk | www.instagram.com/at_chalk before the wedding so it’s worth asking for this.

If you’re shy and introverted in front of the camera then don’t worry – as long as you smile, a personable photographer will bring out your different characters through the pictures. It’s important to enquire when you’re likely to receive your images and in which format this will be, whether it’s an album or a USB stick. It’s also worth bearing in mind whether you want colour shots or black and white and maybe sepia choices too.

Daniella Marinos Photography | 07720 230 977 www.daniellamarinosphotography.com www.facebook.com/DaniellaMarinosPhotography www.instagram.com/daniellamarinosphotography

EXPERT ADVICE

CHURCH ON TIME

We want to arrive at our vintage-themed wedding in style. What can you suggest?

Meet the expert: George Hounslow is the owner of Weddings to a T, a small independent business offering a chauffeur-driven wedding hire service operating a beautiful black 1916 Ford Model T tourer.

George says: At Weddings to a T, we offer couples many accessories to decorate the vehicle with including ribbons and bows tailored to their choice of wedding theme. We’re based in Britford Lane, Salisbury and operate within a 25-mile radius of the city.

Weddings to a T | 07753 271 985 https://weddings-to-a-t.business.site

Meet the expert: Tony Cryer is the director of the wedding car business at the Atwell Wilson Motor Museum located in Calne. It’s the only motor museum in Wiltshire and offers vintage and modern classic car hire for weddings.

Tony says: We have 14 vehicles ranging from 1929 to 1984 models in our wedding car fleet, the oldest being a 1929 Model A Ford. We also have three American cars plus a 1954 Rolls Royce Silver Wraith in midnight blue with foldaway seats for eight passengers and a 1938 Daimler EL24 in dark maroon and black (both pictured). Standard prices range from £300 to £495 based on a 15-mile radius of the museum.

Atwell Wilson Motor Museum | 01249 813 119 https://atwellwilson.org.uk/index.html www.facebook.com/AtwellWilsonMotorMuseum

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

18 CA ST L E STR EET, C I R E N CE STE R , GLOS, GL 7 1 Q 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

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

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

Follow us on Twitter: @CountyWeddings Follow us on Pinterest: County Weddings

Rocks on

JEWELLERY AND ACCESSORIES

With wedding season officially back on, here’s my go-to guide for big-day bling

A

s well as editing this fabulous magazine, I’m also the fashion editor for all 19 of our County Wedding Magazines and one of the perks of the job is having bridal jewellery images landing in my inbox daily. Here, I’ve rounded up the best of the bling for the bridal party.

“Carrie Bradshaw eat your heart out! I’m a big Sex and the City fan and the television series returning to our screens this summer has inspired many jewellery designs. Think cute name necklaces and you get the idea - perfect for a chic city wedding. Simply add a pair of Manolos!” - Claire

“Muted metallics and rose gold are colours hot off the catwalk and make great keepsake pieces for mothersof-the-bride.” - Claire

“Add something blue into your special day with a sapphire or aquamarine.” – Claire “Pick a personalised piece for him, like stylish cufflinks, a watch or a pocket watch at Farrar & Tanner (www.farrar-tanner.co.uk)..” - Claire

“Grown-up pastels are the shades of the season for bridesmaids with sage-green and soft mauve semi-precious stones a fashionable choice.”

– Claire “It’s important that your bridesmaids wear the same jewellery and accessories to look coordinated in the photographs. Choose layered necklaces for festival-themed al fresco celebrations or sparkling cubic zirconia for the perfect party pick.” - Claire

“No one wears diamonds quite like a member of the royal family. So when it comes to choosing your wedding jewellery, look to Her Majesty the Queen, the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton and Diana, Princess of Wales for inspiration.” - Claire

“Don’t shy away from wearing pops of colour against an ivory wedding dress.” - Claire

“I love fashion inspired by the glamorous 1920s era and an Art Deco-themed wedding never goes out of style. Silver, gold and black pieces make a decadent statement.” - Claire

“In the words of the American recording artist Prince, diamonds and pearls marry together for a traditional wedding look.” - Claire

“When searching for the perfect bridesmaid gift, give your best girls something classy to wear on the day of your wedding and at future celebrations.” – Claire “Don’t forget about your hubby-to-be. There has been a 69% increase year-on-year in searches for male engagement ring designs. Check out Cheltenham-based jewellers Metal and Stone for inspiration and bespoke designs (https://metalandstone.co).” - Claire

SHOP THE LOOK www.abbottlyon.com | www.austenblake.com www.elinorcambray.com | www.louiseparry.co.uk https://taylorandhart.com

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Pink sapphire and diamond ring, £1395, https://kjj.rocks Sequinned hat with roses, £800, Merve Bayindir at www.net-a-porter.com

Blush beaded dress with flutter sleeves, £310, Adrianna Papell at www.johnlewis.com 18-carat gold-plated pendant with white zirconia, £99, https://sifjakobs.uk

Sleeveless jacket dress in green, blue and silver, £354, www.harleenkaur.us

Ruffle gown with roses, £895, www.needleandthread.com

Cherry blossom necklace, £105, www.tattydevine.com Dress with ruched bodice and diamanté detail, and matching jacket, £865, Condici at www.nigelraymentboutique.co.uk

LEADING LADY

Silver dress with ruffled tiered hem, £81.75, www.coastfashion.com

Your mum will love this season’s selection of floral dresses, hats and accessories in muted pastel shades Pink tulle hat with multi-coloured roses, made-to-order, https://racheltrevormorgan.com

18-carat gold earrings with Akoya pearls, £175 each, https://ateliervm.com

Satin sandals, £169, coloured in Fuchsia using the dyeable service, £30, https://sargassoandgrey.com

Green embellished maxi dress, £168, www.little-mistress.com.jpg 60

Vegan leather purses, £14.99 each (personalised with any initials for £3.99 extra), https://katieloxton.com

Grey georgette gown with handcrafted floral embroidery, £1299, www.oorvidesai.co.uk

FASHION

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

Say yes to the dress with Coast’s new bridesmaid collection. Your leading ladies will love the layers of lace, tulle and sequins adorning maxi dresses in soft summer shades of blush, sage-green and lilac while your mini-me will adore the cute pleated styles.

Sizes range from six to 26 (with the girl’s dresses available in three to 10 years). Prices start from just £20. To shop, visit www.coastfashion.com www.instagram.com/coastfashion

EDITOR’S PICK

Treat your best girls to this 18-carat, gold-plated signature name necklace, £71.10, www.abbottlyon.com

focus

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

Any occasion

Grace Loves Lace has launched Amitié, a new collection of occasionwear that bridesmaids and wedding guests will love. This hand-crafted range, made in Australia, includes six chic slip dresses in flattering midi and ankle lengths, and a two-piece set all made from eco satin created using 97% recycled materials. To shop, visit https://graceloveslace.com www.instagram.com/grace_loves_lace

What lies beneath

Editor’s favourite These crescent moon diamond studs, £250, and star diamond stud earrings, £290, are from the new Conscious Diamonds by Edge of Ember collection crafted using 100% recycled gold and lab-grown diamonds. To shop, visit https://edgeofember.com www.instagram.com/edgeofember

Boux Avenue has launched a new bridal collection of stunning lingerie styles and sultry nightwear. There’s also a selection of fun accessories including this cute ruffled Bride eye mask, £15. To shop, visit https://www.bouxavenue.com/bridal www.instagram.com/bouxavenue

In other news, Wonderbra has unveiled a solution-based bridal lingerie collection ensuring maximum comfort while offering a natural-looking lift. Bras adapt to the shape of the wedding dress and include an Ultimate Backless and Plunge silhouette. There’s also this romantic Ultimate Strapless style (available in sizes 32A to 38G, £43) with a matching shorty (available in small to extra-large sizes, £18). To shop, visit www.wonderbra.co.uk www.instagram.com/wonderbraofficial

BAG IT

BagButler offers an innovative way for mothers-of-the-bride and bridesmaids to update their big-day look without spending a fortune. They can rent a luxury designer bag for £55 per week, or an accessory, like this Chanel necklace, from £30 per week. There are more than 60 pieces available to rent from Dior, Louis Vuitton and Chanel, to name just a few, and there’s also a special Vintage Collection of jewellery. To shop, visit www.bagbutler.co.uk www.instagram.com/bagbutler.ldn 61

Ethereal girl

These whimsical wedding dresses are rather fitting for a relaxed, bohemian vibe

Madi Lane at www.noraevebridal.co.uk 62

FASHION

FASHION

www.monsoon.co.uk

www.loveshackfancy.com

www.thereformation.com

https://youtu.be/M_xgjSVvthU

https://clairepettibone.com

https://clairepettibone.com 63

www.davidsbridal.co.uk

https://graceloveslace.com

www.whistles.com

www.annageorgina.co.za

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtyKOQe0emc

www.lihihod.com 64

www.lihihod.com

Video courtesy of www.avichaiwechsler.com

FASHION

https://phillipalepley.com

www.badgleymischka.com

Ella Kate at www.noraevebridal.co.uk

https://youtu.be/oVSwf7xSSDM

www.justinalexander.com

www.justinalexander.com 65

www.halfpennylondon.com

www.lunanovias.com/en

www.bowendryden.co.uk

www.lynashworth.co.uk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xX3BMi5MUVo

www.justinalexander.com/lillian-west 66

www.justinalexander.com/lillian-west

FASHION

w o h s

STAR OF THE

Make an entrance in a glamorous gown teamed with statement accessories

https://graceloveslace.com 67

www.davidsbridal.co.uk

https://elyseebridal.com

https://lunanovias.com

www.lynashworth.co.uk

www.papertolace.co.uk

www.morilee.co.uk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_W56GehPw0

www.rikidalal.co.uk 68

www.rikidalal.co.uk

FASHION

https://vimeo.com/502764453

www.bowendryden.co.uk

www.rosaclara.com

Video courtesy of https://hushabyefilms.com

https://sassiholford.com

www.sophieetvoila.com/en

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKL3KiDclLs

www.justinalexander.com

www.justinalexander.com 69

hair guide

THE HEALTHY Achieve the wedding tresses of your dreams with help from trichologist Anabel Kingsley

A

nabel Kingsley, daughter of renowned trichologist Philip Kingsley, is a consultant trichologist and president of global brand Philip Kingsley with clinics in London and New York.

Inspired by her father from an early age, she has an immense passion for hair and scalp health. The depth of her knowledge in the field is practically endless, so who better to turn to for advice on getting your locks wedding-ready?

Here, Anabel gives us the benefit of her wisdom on everything from achieving the right length for that perfect up do, to nutrition and the impact of stress.

DRY HAIR PRONE TO BREAKAGE? Dry hair usually occurs as a result of too much heat-styling and bleaching, as well as UV, chlorinated and salt water exposure.

You should care for your scalp in a similar way to the skin on your face. I’d suggest shampooing daily if you can, but certainly don’t leave more than three days between washes.

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Daily toning of the scalp is also helpful. Apply a soothing, antimicrobial toner containing witch hazel or camphor after shampooing, conditioning and towel-drying hair. You could also benefit from gentle weekly exfoliation.

Exfoliating masks should be applied preshampoo and left on for around 20 minutes.

Good ingredients to look out for are aloe vera and betaine salicylate. Then, to moisturise dry

strands, work a pre-shampoo conditioner into your hair once a week, or twice if it’s particularly parched.

When you heat-style, hold the dryer at least 12 inches away to avoid placing excessive heat on the hair shaft. Then stop when it’s only just dry, as applying heat to already dry hair will remove moisture from within rather than the water sitting on top. Limit use of straighteners and tongs as much as possible, but when you find yourself reaching for them be sure to use a heat protective spray or serum such as Philip Kingsley’s Finishing Touch Polishing Serum and don’t go over the same areas repeatedly.

HELP, MY HAIR’S NOT GROWING! Take care of your scalp; it’s your hair’s support system. A healthy scalp promotes healthy hair

BEAUTY INTERVIEW growth. Following the aforementioned daily cleanse, tone and mask regime is a great first step on the road to luscious long locks.

Provided you’re not experiencing hair loss, but simply want to maximise your hair’s growth potential, eating well will certainly help. Hair isn’t an essential tissue – it’s the last part of you to receive nutrients, but the first to have them withheld. So, any nutritional deficiency can negatively impact your hair long before it affects your general health.

Eating at least a palm-sized portion of protein and a serving of complex carbohydrates at breakfast and lunch will help your strands to grow long and strong. It’s important never to skip breakfast. This is the most important meal of the day for your hair as it’s when energy levels to the follicles are at their lowest. A great example of a healthy-hair breakfast would be poached eggs with whole-wheat toast, quinoa porridge with berries and toasted almonds, or smoked salmon on a bagel.

Don’t be afraid to snack as the energy needed to form hair cells drops four hours after eating. I recommend reaching for a nutrientdense healthy snack such as crudité and hummus, fresh fruit or toast with almond butter.

Overall, make sure you eat a balanced diet – if you’re deficient in a certain vitamin or mineral it can affect your hair and it’s growth. Amino acids, omega 3, zinc, iron and vitamin B12 are all crucial. However, try to avoid mercury-rich fish, such as tuna and swordfish as high levels can affect the growth cycle. Likewise, if you suffer from dandruff, cut back on full-fat dairy products as this can trigger flaking and itching.

Finally, be gentle. Unlike your skin, your strands don’t regenerate if they’re damaged.

So, be careful when you style, brush, detangle, shampoo and towel dry.

WHAT PRODUCTS ARE BEST FOR ME? Like skincare, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to haircare. The integrity of a product and what

hair texture it will work for largely depends on the concentration and quality of the ingredients, which is well nigh impossible to ascertain from the labels. We have to trust the description given as a guide, but I’d recommend that as a rule of thumb you don’t choose a shampoo based on normal, oily or dry descriptions, as your normal won’t be someone else’s normal.

Instead, pick one that’s formulated based on hair texture.

The following should help steer you in the right direction: ❤ Afro Caribbean hair. Often prone to damage as weak points form along the hair shaft where curls occur, and is also highly porous. Choose a shampoo that intensively moisturises and gently cleanses at the same time. ❤ Coarse hair. More porous than medium or fine textures, it’s prone to moisture loss becoming dry and frizzy. Use a re-moisturising shampoo with anti-static ingredients. ❤ Medium texture. Tends to get slightly oily

at the roots and dry at the ends. Use a moisture-balancing shampoo to address both needs. ❤ Fine hair. With more oil glands on the scalp hair can become lank and easily weighed down. Use a cleansing yet gently bodybuilding shampoo rich in thickening proteins.

STRESS TEST Stress can really do a number on your hair, mainly because it’s bad for your health in general. When you’re feeling stressed, your brain doesn’t distinguish between the stress you might be under at work or from planning a wedding, and the kind you’d experience in a life-or-death situation. As such, the chemical reactions produced in your body are similar and result in a fight or flight response, triggering unwanted hair and scalp effects such as excessive daily hair fall and increased sebum production.

In terms of stress management techniques, it really depends on what works for you and your schedule. Some find Pilates and yoga classes helpful, while others prefer at-home meditation or using mindfulness apps a couple of times a day. Alternatively, you may find walking, swimming or reading relaxing.

Hair loss in itself is stressful and while it’s difficult to remain calm, I advise my clients to be patient, trust in the treatment and leave their worries with us at the clinic. Once a person steps through our doors, it’s our job to put them at ease and provide them with a comprehensive treatment plan. I also advise them not to Google! There’s so much mis-information online, and the internet can come up with some pretty scary and unhelpful things.

For further information on specific hair-related concerns and how a trichologist might be able to help you, check out www.philipkingsley.co.uk, where you can also find the full Philip Kingsley product range.

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SLEEP ON IT Dewtopia is Ole Henriksen’s most potent treatment yet. It works hard to deliver visible retexturising and replenishing results overnight, meaning you wake up to a significantly smoother, renewed and brighter complexion. Containing a 20 per cent acid blend of 10 per cent AHAs and 10 per cent PHAs, these exfoliating components are balanced with its replenishing ingredients of birch sap, cotton water and aloe juice, which soothe, soften and condition. You’ll also sleep easy knowing it’s clean, vegan and cruelty free. So, put uneven texture, dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles to bed!

Priced at £46, it’s available at www.boots.com

HAUTE COUTURE + BEAUTY

Introducing the new L’Oréal Paris X Elie Saab collaboration. The oh-so stylish bridal make-up collection is an invitation for women to embrace their individuality, amplify their femininity and own the power of grace. Master of style in the fashion world Elie Saab says, “My passion has always been to make women feel beautiful and make-up has the ability to highlight every woman’s natural beauty. As the finishing touch to a look or an accessible way into the world of couture, make-up allows every woman to experience a touch of Elie Saab magic every day.”

Built around a palette that’s perfect for achieving a natural bridal look, the range features an eyeshadow palette with nine highly pigmented hues (£15.99), Color Riche Lipstick in four exclusive shades (£9.99), glosses in 3 exclusive bold nude shades (£10.99) and a mascara (£12.99).

So, clear some space in your make-up bag and head over to www.lookfantastic.com or www.superdrug.com

IT’S CLAY TIME If you’ve tried traditional clay masks in the past you may have found them to be too drying for your skin type and difficult to rinse off. Step up Glow Recipe’s new Watermelon Glow Hyaluronic Clay Pore-Tight Facial (£36). This luxuriously indulgent treatment unclogs pores, exfoliates and smooths all skin types, even the most sensitive, and all in just five minutes with a no-tug wash-off. It’s clay reinvented!

Available at www.cultbeauty.co.uk

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Beauty

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

BUZZ

BYE BYE TO DRY

When you’re adorned in light, soft and smooth fabrics on your wedding day the last thing you want is to have that bubble popped by dry and rough feet tucked into those https://youtu.be/Vck_6T7VrZs Jimmy Choos you’ve been saving for. The Skin Republic Foot Peel offers the solution.

Rather satisfyingly gross, it will remove dead skin in seven to 10 days, thanks to its dual-layered booties infused with an exfoliating serum packed with plant extracts and alpha hydroxy acids. After wearing them for up to two hours, over the course of the next week to ten days, you’ll be able to see the peel working as dead skin cells, calluses and rough skin flake away to leave soft, soothed and hydrated tootsies. If you dare, click play to see how I got on with the peel.

For ultimate results, use twice a month for the first month and then as required. Priced at £9.99, its available at www.superdrug.com

COOLING ALL BLONDES

Fudge Professional Everyday Clean Blonde Damage Rewind is the newest addition to the brand’s cult toning range. A daily gradual toning and instant damage repair shampoo and conditioner, these products are designed to address the specific needs of all blondes. It’s great for those looking for a neutral tone as it enhances highlights and refreshes blonde hues with gentle cleansing and conditioning, while protecting and strengthening strands from within. So, don’t be afraid of over-toning your locks.

Think of this duo as a gradual tanner for your hair.

Fudge Professional is available to buy from hair salons nationwide or online at uk.fudgeprofessional.com where the two are priced at £23.80 if you buy as a bundle.

BEAUTY NEWS

ROSY GLOW

Some exciting newness from Pixi Beauty has hit the shelves recently and I’m nuts about the +Rose Glow-y Powder (£14) in particular. This silky soft, rose infused, https://youtu.be/EO3_TuWvc3E multi-use powder can be applied as a veil of blush or highlighter adding a touch of radiance and luminosity as it brightens the complexion. What’s more, the natural mineral formula contains ceremides to give time-release moisture to the skin.

Click play and check out the bridal look I’ve created using this beauty with the Flawless Beauty Primer, +C Under Eye Brightener, Endless Shade Stick in pink quartz and Endless Silky Eye Pen in black noir. All of which are available at https://pixibeauty.co.uk

THE CLEANSING EXPRESS

Following the award-winning success of its legendary cleanser, Eve Lom has created a new generation lightweight gel balm cleanser formulated to address the fast-paced lifestyle of the modern woman.

When massaged into wet skin, the easy-to-use formula gently transforms from a gel balm texture into a soothing milky cleanser that’s quick to rinse off and leaves skin blissfully soft. Fortified with a high dose of shea butter and nourishing grapeseed oil, it’s clinically proven to moisturise skin for up to 12 hours after use. Using Eve Lom’s signature blend of clove, eucalyptus, hops and chamomile oils, it dissolves impurities and all traces of make-up, including waterproof mascara, in an instant.

Check out www.evelom.co.uk

POLISH PERFECTION

Ok, has anyone else noticed how incessant use of hand sanitiser ruins a maincure? Annoying isn’t it? Apparently the alcohol they contain, which is designed to break down germs and bacteria, while protecting us from Covid, unfortunately does the same to nail varnish. Not only that, but it also dries out nails, which in turn causes polish to chip.

So, we were thrilled when we found out that the brilliant folk at Barry M have come up with a Sanitiser Proof Topcoat – genius! Stay safe and look fab.

A steal at £3.99 it’s available at www.barrym.com, Superdrug and Boots.

SILVER BULLET Adult acne is now the most common skin complaint amongst women, largely due to stress and a building intolerance to chemicals in cosmetic and skin care products. The most common way of treating acne breakouts is with an antibacterial wash, however what these do is wash away the good bacteria along with the bad – not great for the overall health and youthfulness of your skin.

Silver Serum from Skin Shop is a smart anti-bacterial skin treatment that contains the patented ingredient MicroSilver, which specifically seeks out and kills harmful bacteria while leaving the friendly stuff intact.

Bridal make-up artist Jo Crossley recommends the product to brides who may be prone to breakouts before their big day. She says, “It’s effective and great when you need results fast!”

Free from perfume, parabens MI and SLS, it costs £12.95 from www.clarol.co.uk

BE AT PEACE

Cult US brand, Peace Out Skincare has landed in the UK with a mission is to help you bring peace to your skin through effective and fun skincare solutions like the acne dots, pore strips and daily targeted routine solutions like the retinol eye stick.

I love the Peace Out Puffy Eyes. Ideal if lack of sleep from excitement the night before the big day has left peepers looking a little tired. Packed with brightening power players caffeine, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid they revitalise tired-looking eyes by helping to reduce the appearance of puffiness and dark circles in just 15 minutes.

Priced at £23 for 12 patches and available at www.boots.com

HAIR REPAIR

If damaged hair is cause for concern in the lead up to the big day, reset your locks with a deep hydration. Bored during lock down, I bleached the ends of my hair on a whim – as you do – and over time they have become brittle and dry. So, I gave On A Cloud Baobab Oil Masque, R+Co’s newest launch, a try.

The protein-rich, creamy formula renews damaged hair fibres bringing nourishment, strength and elasticity to your strands, while the baobab oil protein rebuilds bonds. Massage into wet hair after shampooing and leave for five to 10 minutes, depending on how damaged you feel your hair is, and rinse. I was pleased how the shine was restored once more and the ends were left feeling smoother and stronger.

The new On A Cloud range also includes the Baobab Oil Repair Shampoo, and Baobab Oil Repair Splash On Styler.

Priced at £40 the masque is available with the rest of the range at www.rebelbeautybrands.com 73

BEAUTY & HAIR

BY REBECCA Hair and make-up for Brides and their bridal parties.

If you want a reliable, professional person for your special day, then contact Rebecca with the information about your WEDDING DAY. Tel: 01452 616634 / 07951 212701 Email: becky-patt@blueyonder.co.uk

www.beautyandhairbyrebecca.com

Cruelty Free, Vegan Friendly Bridal & Event Hair Based in & around the Cotswolds, UK Whether you choose elegant and classic, boho chic or all out wild and wonderful, I’ll ensure that you look and feel fantastic on your special day, whatever your style. Recommending styles that suit your bridal parties needs and creating styles that you will love. Sustainability is really important at SAY YES so all of my products are Vegan & cruelty free, biodegradable and will be recycled where possible after use. Bespoke packages available.

www.sayyesbridalstylist.com

07872435713 | sayyesbridalstylist@gmail.com

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

Follow us on Facebook: County Wedding Magazines Follow us on Twitter: @CountyWeddings

Photography of Say Yes Bridal Stylist courtesy of https://gemmarandallphotography.co.uk

y t u a Be Q&A

EXPERT ADVICE

These talented hair and make-up artists reveal all about summer weddings

SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY Meet the expert: Katie Robotham is the owner of Say Yes Bridal Stylist, a cruelty free and vegan-friendly bridal and event hair styling service in and around the Cotswolds.

I want to make sustainable choices when it comes to my big-day beauty. Can you give me any tips for my bridal hairstyle and products?

Katie says: If sustainability is important to you, there are many bridal hair and make-up businesses who, like myself, have chosen to try and reduce their environmental impact. By making simple changes like using disposable and biodegradable towels, recyclable products including face masks and recycled packaging, it’s the small things that have a bigger impact.

Some great sustainable hair and beauty brands are vegan-friendly and cruelty free. My favourites are Colourwow sulphate-free, cruelty-free and gluten-free hair products that don’t contain phthalates and ensure no colour distorting. Maria Nila offers vegan hair care items and Tropic offer vegan-friendly make-up and skincare products.

Many styles that brides request require hair extensions. Whilst a lot of brands that offer these have been known for producing unethical products, there are some, like Cliphair, who ethically source and produce the finest quality hair, giving you peace of mind.

THE COMPLETE PACKAGE Meet the expert: Rebecca Pattenden is the creative force behind Beauty and Hair by Rebecca located in Hucclecote, Gloucestershire, offering a wide range of beauty and hair treatments.

I need some hair inspiration for my bridesmaids hair at my late-summer wedding. Can you help?

Rebecca says: I would personally recommend making sure that all of your bridesmaids have the same hairstyle that’s different from yours so that you stand out from them. Buns are very chic and versatile styles that can be worn smooth, messy or plaited and suit long or shoulder-length hair, perfect for bridesmaids.

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS Katie Robotham | Say Yes Bridal Stylist | 07872 435 713 | www.sayyesbridalstylist.com www.facebook.com/sayyesbridalstylist |www.instagram.com/sayyesbridalstylist Rebecca Pattenden | Beauty and Hair by Rebecca | 07951 212 701 | www.beautyandhairbyrebecca.com www.facebook.com/Beautyhairbyrebecca 75

Amor Sui Inner Glow 15 Body Oil £28, 100ml, www.amor-sui.co.uk A blend of 15 skin-transforming oils, this game-changer absorbs instantly and nourishes for 24 hours. I tried it out on my horribly dry hands and loved the gorgeous aroma, reminiscent of a spa treatment, along with how soothing the ingredients were. I particularly liked the spray application, which is great for use on the body, rather than the pump you usually find with oils.

– Kelly Andrews CBD Packed with antioxidan ts it fights dryness an d free radical dam age.

REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic £27, 250ml, www.renskincare.com

AZELAIC ACID Brightens skin tone and improves texture, as well as reducing blemishes and areas of uneven pigmentation.

This tonic, which is best used in place of your toner step, feels gentle enough on the skin to use daily, with just a little tingle. It may seem tame, but it’s a hard-hitting product with exfoliating and brightening properties. I could feel straight away that my skin felt stimulated and my complexion was left looking more even with a healthy glow. I can’t wait to see the results from prolonged use.

– Olivia Gibson

ALL GOOD THINGS

Embryolisse Cicalisse Restorative Skin Cream £8.99, www.feelunique.com

NIC ACID HYALURO to retain Helps skin se d n increa moisture a u ction, th s cell produ and fine lines reducing ing r a plump wrinkles fo t. e thing eff c and smoo

This restorative cream treats skin on the body or lips so I was eager to see the results. I’ll admit to being surprised by the warm, spiced and woody fragrance that met me when I opened the tube, and after just two applications, my lips had stopped cracking and felt silky smooth.

Emboldened by this success, I tried treating the dry sections on my face. The product soaked in straight away and left skin dewy after just five minutes. I’m pleased to report that I’ve found my new emergency moisturiser! Bonus – it’s cruelty free too.

– Beth Morton

Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser £31, 237ml, www.cultbeauty.co.uk

ODS SUPERFO ential trients, ess Rich in nu mins a s and vit fatty acid re c d in skin a when use y sl u aneo they simult l, turise, coo is o soothe, m t. c te pro repair and

I must admit, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from a cleanser containing kale, spinach and green tea, but it certainly sounded intriguing. It smells surprisingly gorgeous and feels wonderfully refreshing. The foaming texture left my skin super-clean, but hydrated without that tight dry feeling you sometimes get after cleansing.

Plus, with its barrage of power-ingredients I can’t help but feel that it must be doing wonders for my skin’s overall health!

– Olivia Gibson 76

We put 2021’s trending beauty ingredients through their paces O Green People Vita Min Fix AVOCAD ing sh 24-Hour Cream ri u o n Rich in erals in £21, 50ml, www.greenpeople.co.uk m d n a vitamins nce la a b re to it helps g This vegan moisturiser absorbs into vels leavin moisture le d e the skin beautifully and the scent skin plump . d e n of sandalwood and rose geranium e ft so and makes this cream smell like you’ve walked out of a spa. Green People prides itself on its eco credentials and uses 89 per cent organic certified ingredients - so you know no nasties will be going into your skin. Teamed with plenty of water I feel that this skincare product will do my skin so much good and help combat my fine lines.

– Rachel Westall SQUALAN E Reduces th e appearance of fine lines, sooth es and prevents irri tation, controls oil and more.

Bioderma Hydrabio Gel-Crème £15.50, 40ml, www.lookfantastic.com This light moisturiser is perfect for my sensitive skin. I loved the gel-like consistency, which absorbed quickly and left my skin feeling nourished and refreshed. I applied at night and in the morning as it makes for a great base before make-up due to its primer-like qualities.

A must for pre-wedding and on-the-day skincare routines.

– Danielle Harvey

VENUE DECOR MOBILE BAR DISCOS CATERING BALLOONS HEN PARTIES MAGIC MIRRORS CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT FLOWER WALL FUN FOODS GIANT GAMES FAVOURS WEDDING STATIONERY WEDDING GIFTS 07702 179293 BUTTERFLYOCCASIONS@OUTLOOK.COM WWW.BUTTERFLY-OCCASIONS.CO.UK

An experienced team, directed by award-winning florist Jo Hiorns, Simply Flowers help mark the important events in your life – celebrations of love and life, new beginnings or fond farewells – or simply because you want to make your loved ones smile.

These floral creations reflect the individuality of our clients and we create arrangements appropriate to you.

Jo will personally consult with you to understand your needs and provide flowers that fit perfectly

CALL: 07887 696350

EMAIL: jo@simplyflowers-florist.co.uk

VISIT: www.simplyflowers-florist.co.uk

Ready, set, plan!

County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey

H

Like most venues, ours has a list of caterers that we were asked to choose from for the wedding breakfast. We’re complete foodies and were excited to go through the menus and make a decision – even though the process did make me snack constantly and ruined my wedding diet. We needed to confirm a company without tasting anything due to lockdown restrictions, which the control freak in me found pretty stressful as we didn’t want to make the wrong decision. So before committing, we researched the companies, looked at reviews, compared prices, locations, COVID-19 policies and the menus until (finally) we had a winner. To keep things relaxed, we’ve decided on a barbecue instead of a traditional three-course meal and have booked a tasting for later in the year – hurrah!

through the images and decided on the style we liked (the fun part) and how much we wanted to spend (the not so fun part). We organised video chats with two of them, and Dave, who is very decisive, felt an instant connection with the photographer who was recommended to us by a friend. He was lovely and put us both at ease right away. I made a list of questions to ask him (colour-coded of course), and he answered each one effortlessly. He had great reviews online, and we felt really confident about booking him. We’ve organised a pre-wedding shoot later this year, which will hopefully make us feel more comfortable in front of the camera!

Next issue, hear all about our flowers and my hunt for the perfect dress. If you have any tips you’d like to share, I’d love to hear from you. Drop me an email at Melissab@kdmediapublishing.com

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

PRETTY AS A PICTURE

As some of you may know from last issue we’ve booked our gorgeous venue and were beginning to think about the best part, the food!

Due to 2020’s wedding wipeout and the increase of rescheduled weddings to an already busy summer wedding season, we started looking right away for our photographer before they were all booked. I’ve worked at County Wedding Magazines for almost five years, and during that time, I’ve seen hundreds of amazing weddings, which made finding the perfect supplier feel really daunting.

We started by looking through wedding magazines and Instagram and narrowed down our list to five potentials. We found that most photographers don’t generally include their pricing on their website, so we emailed all of them and asked for their brochures and price lists. Once they’d all responded, we looked

Melissa. x

ello to all my fellow nearlyweds-to-be!

My wedding is just over a year away, and as much as I hate to admit it, I’m officially a bridezilla! I’m obsessively organised at the best of times, but knowing we have a whole day to plan with all eyes on us has sent my OCD into overdrive. My fiancé, Dave, calls it ‘wedding brain’ and likes to tease me about my folders and schedules, but keeping everything neat is definitely helping reduce my anxiety. Obviously, I have ages until our big day, but I find myself dreaming about silly things, like the wrong flowers turning up, Dave forgetting his suit (a strong possibility) or my dress not fitting. Some of my friends tying the knot have admitted to being the same, so if you find yourself worrying about trivial details, don’t panic, you’re not alone!

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

BRIDE’S DIARY

I’m hoping to grow my hair longer for the big day, so I can have loose curls with a beautiful hair piece.

Our venue has a lavender field nearby, so we’re planning to have our pictures taken there.

We’re not sure if we’re going to have wedding favours, but if we do, we like the idea of something like this.

A room full of candles is a must!

For my wedding ring, I’ve decided to have a row I never wear make-up, so I’m planning to go for of diamonds that match my engagement ring. a very natural look.

Since we’re getting married in July, Dave is leaning towards a more casual, summery look.

No matter how hard I try, I can’t walk in heels, so I’m going to wear a pair of white trainers.

This popcorn set up is super cute. We’d love to do something similar but with sweets.

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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

GROOMS’ NEWS

Two’s company

The Perfume Shop has added two new fragrances to its ever-expanding offering. Armani Code EDP for Him is ideal for those that love oriental fragrances; with top notes of bergamot, lemon and mandarin, a heart of lavender and rosemary, and a base of cedarwood, tonka bean and vanilla. Priced £72(60ml), £92(110ml).

Montblanc Explorer is great for those that love woody scents; boasting top notes of Italian bergamot and pink pepper, a heart of marine accord and grey amber, and a base of patchouli and wood. Priced £52(60ml), £72(100ml).

Both available from www.theperfumeshop.com

LOVE AND FASHION UNITED

Malone Souliers is embracing love, inclusivity and hope with: To Futures – a new campaign celebrating its new range of shoes for brides, grooms, bridesmaids and male and female wedding guests. It focuses on playful pairings of its favourite wedding styles, worn by a series of reallife couples that embody the brand’s creative spirit and daring approach.

Groom styles are relaxed yet refined, boasting glossy patent leather and handpainted cognac. Not just for nearlywedsto-be but for the entire wedding party; for male guests, it’s all about fun, from characterful Cole and Alberto tasselled loafers to the intricately textured Evan woven-leather lace-ups. Check out www.malonesouliers.com

Grooms’ NEWS All the latest best buys and product launches

RATHER DISHY

FOLLOW THE FLOCK

David Watson collaborates with local Yorkshire artist Clare Lindley to create classic British design: Resting Sheep Pocket Square.

Clare who has spent her life drawing and exploring the woods and fields, creates her pictures from paper, in layers of colour with intricately hand-cut detail. Inspired by the countryside and wildlife that surrounds her, these sheep are keeping cool under the trees in early summer and makes for a rather eyecatching display on big-day attire.

Priced £45, from www.davidwatson.uk

FINISHING TOUCHES

The new Outback Mate Soap and Dish Set (£20) from Lush, is handmade by Granby Workshop in Liverpool and uses its cutting-edge method of creating a workable clay from materials that would otherwise go to landfill – this limited edition soap dish collection used 83.3% recycled materials! Visit https://uk.lush.com

Charles Tyrwhitt has introduced a personalisation service for the discerning suit shopper, enabling grooms and guests to experience a truly bespoke approach to big-day tailoring.

Whether it’s the flawless tailored fit of a Charles Tyrwhitt suit, jacket, tuxedo or shirt you can choose additional style elements from the lining to the lapel design – details that make it unique to you! Prices start from £79 for a custom shirt and £399 for a custom suit.

Visit www.ctshirts.com

Put your foot in it

The new George Chukka Boot – Blue, £145 from Percy Stride, is perfect for fashion-forward grooms, groomsmen and guests looking to create a stylish ensemble on the big day. Visit www.percystride.com 81

envy

GREEN WITH

Here’s the perfect colour palette for country chic nuptials

https://favourbrook.com 82

GROOMS’ FASHION Personalised Modern Vintage Leather Watch, £59.99, www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

Bordado Belts, £99, www.pampeano.co.uk Prince of Wales Check Tie, £69.99, www.farlows.co.uk

Heal&Toe Contrast Navy, £10, www.tomlane.co

Highland Pocket Square, £38, www.roryhutton.co.uk

Brackish bowties, £189.95, www.oxfordshirt.co.uk

Cardamom Velvet Cotton Chaucer Jacket, £790, https://favourbrook.com

Leather card holder, £24.95, www.engraversguild.co.uk

Electric Lagoon Face Mask, £12, https://thecuriousdepartment.com Paisley Navy Blue Cufflinks, £4.99, https://moochzilla.co.uk

The Bedingfeld II Navy, £195, www.fairfaxandfavor.com 83

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 SCOTLAND

Located in St Andrews overlooking the breathtaking Scottish coastline, Old Course Hotel Golf Resort & Spa has undergone a series of renovations including refurbished wedding venue spaces, the introduction of a penthouse, new guest rooms, as well as an additional destination restaurant and bar.

The luxury hotel will boast 175 rooms with the introduction of a third floor in the ‘Champions Wing’ and the addition of 31 new rooms, overlooking the Old Course. A penthouse will also be added to the fourth floor, which is the perfect honeymoon suite or can be enjoyed for a post-wedding minimoon romantic break. It will be the only suite with a private lift, balcony, outdoor seating and firepit, with spectacular views overlooking West Sands Beach and the golf course. Visit www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk

SURREY

Beaverbrook has debuted an array of irresistible new guest experiences that celebrate the best things in life, including the sensational Surrey Hills. Sitting proudly amid 470 emerald acres of meadows, woodland and gardens, Beaverbrook offers unique access to picture-postcard landscapes and hosts delightful discoveries for guests. A best-of-British summer is guaranteed, thanks to innovative balloon dining, vineyard tours, wine tastings, turbo e-bikes, Italy-inspired al fresco feasts, and self-driving jaunts in a classic car – what more can newlyweds need, luxury, romance and adventure!

Check out www.beaverbrook.co.uk

SUSSEX

Sussex-based Amberley Castle has just been named a Tripadvisor ‘2021 Travellers’ Choice Award Winner’ - making it a must for honeymoon staycations.

Positioning Amberley Castle in the top 10% of all hotels worldwide, the award is the result of reviews and ratings from travellers across the globe to identify the very best hotels on Tripadvisor.

General manager Piers Vowles comments, “It’s been a tough year in hospitality but winning this award is the cherry on the cake. Awards are always lovely to receive of course, but those voted for by our customers are our favourite, so we’re particularly pleased with this one!”

Amberley Castle is looking forward to a busy summer ahead, those keen to enjoy a break need to book in advance. Check out www.amberleycastle.co.uk

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YORKSHIRE

Grantley Hall has launched an exciting selection of themed staycation packages perfect for UK minimooners. Guaranteed to blow away the lockdown lethargy, the packages are themed around outdoor exploration, gardens, cycling and wellness.

Guests staying over the warmer months will also be able to enjoy Grantley Hall’s enhanced al fresco dining programme including, The Norton Courtyard and EightyEight Terrace plus the stylish new outdoor dining space – The Orchard: relax, indulge and celebrate your newly married status!

Rooms at Grantley Hall start from £450 per room, per night including breakfast. Check out www.grantleyhall.co.uk

HONEYMOON NEWS

AND AWAY...

SAINT-TROPEZ

Nineteenth-century Château de la Messardière is a majestic much-loved five-star palace hotel perched on a hilltop on the outskirts of Saint-Tropez. The property, with its trademark domed cupolas and turrets, has undergone extensive renovation over the last two years and is due to open July 2021.

Saint-Tropez’s largest hotel, it occupies 25 acres of glorious grounds overlooking the Côte d’Azur and Provençal countryside; highly acclaimed French architect and interior designer, Christophe Tollemer, over-sore the redesign incorporating the breathtaking views and magical Mediterranean light.

Rates start from €1,150 in a Classic Room based on a new inclusive rate concept. Check out https://airelles.com/fr/destination/chateau-de-la-messardiere-hotel

MARRAKECH

Royal Mansour Marrakech debuts three new wellness partnerships and multi-day wellness programmes incorporating three renowned skincare brands: Intraceuticals, Subtle Energies and Dr. Burgener Switzerland ‒ each known for their innovative techniques, sustainable practices and results-driven treatments. To enhance the hotel’s global wellness approach, it will also be launching personalised 3, 5, 7 or 14-day wellness programmes, merging natural treatments, nutrition therapy and the latest discoveries in Western medicine.

Available from 11,050MAD per night (approx £900 including breakfast and airport transfers). Check out www.royalmansour.com

ITALY

Lake Como’s prestigious Grand Hotel Tremezzo reopens with new restaurant and wellness offerings. The exciting new launches promise guests the epitome of lakeside luxury, from Como’s very first lakeside fish restaurant, Giacomo al Lago, and new wellness pakages focusing on the mind, body and soul.

Rooms available from approx €550 (£470) per night. Check out www.grandhoteltremezzo.com

IBIZA

7Pines Resort Ibiza is opening for the summer with a new educational and eco-friendly Kid’s Club, a new izakayastyle raw food concept at Pershing Yacht Terrace, new wellness packages and a villaexperience offering.

Rates at 7Pines Resort Ibiza start from approximately €300 (£260) per night. Visit www.7pines-ibiza.com 85

Back to nature

A once in a lifetime experience, a honeymoon safari adventure will certainly make memories and create the ultimate photo album!

Mara Nyika Camp, Kenya

This camp is super private and exclusive sleeping up to 14 guests sharing rooms; there are two newly opened family suites as well (children must be age eight and up).

The camp is tucked beside a small stream on the western side of the 50,000-acre Naboisho Conservancy in Kenya.

Tembo Plains Camp, Zimbabwe

Opening 1st July 2021, Tembo Plains Camp is in the private 130,000-hectare Sapi Reserve adjacent to the Zambezi River and wellknown Mana Pools Reserve.

Offering four guest tents, and one two-bedroom family unit, with a private guide for an exclusive private safari experience. The beautiful two-bedroomed family Tembo Suite consists of two tents with shared lounge, dining area and pool, fantastic for families (children age 12 and up), two couples or a couple looking to experience the ultimate private safari!

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Activities available include morning and night game drives, visiting a local Maasai Mara community and you can experience a hot air balloon ride across the Maasai Mara at an additional cost.

Nightly rates from £860 per night. Visit the website for more details https://greatplainsconservation.com/portfolio/mara-nyika Painted wild dogs, lions, leopards, buffalo and elephants are all common wildlife sightings in the Sapi Private Reserve. Activities include day and night wildlife-viewing drives, walking safaris, canoeing and boating.

Dereck and Beverly Joubert designed the camp themselves, paying homage to the very ancient Zimbawian culture and artefacts.

Nightly rates in the family unit starts from £2,280; a guest tent starts from £816 per person per night. Check out the following website for more information https://greatplainsconservation.com/portfolio/tembo-plains

HONEYMOONS

ol Donyo Lodge, Kenya

ol Donyo is located on the Maasai-owned Mbirikani Group Ranch, comprising of 275,000 acres of wilderness between Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks and bordering Chyulu Hills National Park. This stunningly beautiful area is incredibly diverse, and often has spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

This camp is very remote offering extreme privacy and a vast amount of activities to choose from: morning and evening game drives, mountain biking, bush breakfast and dinners, guided bushwalks, tracking, conservation and community out-reach programmes and sleep-out star-bed experiences. ol Donyo Lodge can accommodate up to 16 guests sharing and children are welcome from age five and up.

Nightly rates from £530 per night. Visit https://greatplainsconservation.com/portfolio/ol-donyo-lodge

Duba Plains Camp, Botswana

Duba Plains Camp is located in the centre of the Okavango Delta among a matrix of palm-dotted islands, flood plains and woodland on a 33,000-hectare private reserve boasting incredible game viewing.

The exclusive camp evokes classic African 1920s style and accommodates up to 10 guests sharing tented rooms (children must be age eight and up). Guests will enjoy their own plunge pool with verandah and shaded salah, indoor and outdoor showers and sweeping views of the surrounding floodplains and passing wildlife from the privacy of their own room. An interactive kitchen allows guests to relax around the bar area whilst the camp chefs whip up culinary delights in front of them. Activities available include morning and night game drives, swimming in the main camp pool and fishing, mekoro, canoeing and boating depending on water levels.

Nightly rates from £1,400 per night. For more details visit https://greatplainsconservation.com/portfolio/duba-plains

Selinda Camp, Botswana

Resting on the banks of the Selinda Spillway as it enters the Linyanti River, the new Selinda Camp is situated on a private 130,000-hectare Selinda reserve.

This pristine area is home to elephants, wild dogs and the famous Selinda Lion Pride recently featured in the National Geographic film Birth of a Pride by Dereck and Beverly Joubert, the cofounders of Great Plains.

Selinda Camp was completely refurbished in June 2019 and can accommodate up to six guests sharing three tented villas, including a family room where children aged eight and up are welcome. Each room has a private pool and in-room exercise equipment to assist in working off the sensational food and wine served at the camp’s fine dining show kitchen. Activities include: morning and evening game drives, guided walks, local culture visits and in-room spa and wellness treatments for an additional cost. Water-based activities are also available depending on the season.

Nightly rates from £1,400 per night. Check out the following website https://greatplainsconservation.com/portfolio/selinda-camp for more info.

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HONEYMOONS

fo May

Hannah Faulder receives a true Yorkshire welcome at The Alice Hawthorn in Nun Monkton rriving in Nun Monkton is like stepping back in time. Nestled between York and Harrogate, the village is home to a 20-acre green surrounded by picture-perfect cottages; at the centre is a twinkling pond, complete with dabbling ducks. Insects buzz merrily through the swaying grass and cows lazily graze among the buttercups. The huge maypole evokes that nostalgic country village feel.

This bucolic setting is the home of the Grade II-listed Alice Hawthorn. The pub has been expertly reimagined as a destination dining spot with luxury rooms while remaining true to its purpose at the heart of village life. We were told that the pub’s namesake was a famous racehorse owned by local man John Plummer, who unexpectedly received the horse in a will and named it after the local blacksmith’s daughter.

The building looks every bit the archetypal country pub, especially with its cosy, dogfriendly bar, and its serene setting means it couldn’t be more perfect for a chilled-out honeymoon or post-vow getaway. After a long few months of lockdown followed by grey and drizzly weather, my husband, Cal, and I were delighted to find that spring had finally sprung when we arrived at The Alice Hawthorn at the end of May.

STAY We checked into one of the four Pub Rooms, which boasted postcard-worthy villagegreen views. Quiet despite the hubbub of the restaurant, the room’s high ceilings and exposed beams create drama, while the comfort,

amenities and calming palette were homely. The room was decorated with exceptional taste; it’s a real skill to retain the character of a place like this while injecting a modern edge. I particularly enjoyed luxuriating in the freestanding bath tub before jumping into the enormous bed with its crisp white sheets.

A tour of the newly launched Garden Rooms to the rear of the pub showed that the impeccable style is carried throughout. With more than just a nod to its agricultural roots, the rooms are constructed from Douglas fir and finished inside and out with light-coloured timber. The result is an oasis of calm, with a feeling of space and an abundance of natural light.

EAT The restaurant has long been a foodie destination. Chef partner John Topham focuses his talents on creating incredible menus with seasonal produce and local ingredients. To me, food that reflects the locality and is at one with its setting is real luxury. The service is wonderful; attentive yet informal, the friendly staff add to the vibe. We particularly enjoyed chatting with the lovely Enzo, whom we ended up having a drink with while he told us stories of the pub’s heritage. For foodie couples, there’s a gorgeous barn-style private dining room, which would make the most wonderful big-day setting for up to 30 guests.

The Yorkshire asparagus starter with poached hen’s eggs and croquette potatoes just tasted of springtime, while my veggie option of harissa roast aubergine with tabbouleh and broadbean pesto had the most wonderful balance of flavours. My meat-eating husband had the special: stone bass with gnocchi and mussels, which he devoured. On the second night, he proclaimed the Whitby crab mayo with guacamole and sweetcorn ice cream the best

starter he’d ever eaten. In the morning, you must treat yourself to the breakfast. The crushed avocado and poached egg on sourdough is the ideal way to start your day.

Although we couldn’t take advantage of the hotel’s Pizza in the Gardens nights (they start in June, so for a future trip, perhaps?), we could just imagine being in the Mediterranean-style setting of the beer garden, toes-in-grass, with the smell of stone-baked pizza in the air and a jazz band creating the perfect summer-evening atmosphere.

EXPLORE If you can drag yourself away, there are plenty of great places to check out before retiring to the serenity of your room… ❤ The National Trust’s Beningbrough Hall is accessible via a ferryboat across the river from Nun Monkton. The Italianate hall is surrounded by beautiful formal gardens. ❤ There’s plenty of gorgeous countryside to explore on foot. We visited the village’s pretty church with its William Morrisdesigned stained-glass window, grabbed a sneak peak at the grand Priory and strolled down to the river. There’s even a handy book of walks in the rooms. ❤ Yorkshire Heart Vineyard is about a mile down the road. We couldn’t leave without a bottle of their rosé wine. ❤ Nearby Harrogate is a charming Victorian spa town with pretty gardens and boutique shops. A trip to the famous Bettys Tea Rooms is practically a legal obligation while here (that’s what I told my husband anyway). ❤ York is a huge draw with the city walls to explore, the huge Gothic cathedral, the Jorvik Viking Centre and the National Railway Museum. It’s a busy day, but retiring to The Alice Hawthorn’s beer garden for a well-earned pint makes it all worth it.

BOOK IT: Pub Rooms at The Alice Hawthorn start from £120 per night and Garden Rooms from £140 per night based on two adults sharing on a B&B basis. Visit www.thealicehawthorn.com 89

Images courtesy of www.jimpoyner.com

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WIN

A MINIMOON IN CORFU WORTH £1,000

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estled into the South-East corner of Corfu in Agios Ioannis Peristeron, this newly built adults-only property is situated adjacent to sister property MarBella Corfu Hotel. With the hotel name Nido deriving from Italian meaning ‘nest’, the hotel reflects this in its warm and intimate environment with a blend of Corfiot heritage and stylish comfort.

The property echoes Corfu’s natural charm, making guests feel at home during their stay.

The hotel boasts a range of individually designed 70 junior suites, deluxe suites and luxury villas all with stunning panoramic views across the glistening waters of the Ionian Sea. Every luxurious and elegant room is inspired by the natural environment, complemented by sleek design and modern amenities, with breathtaking scenery and sea views at every turn.

With adults in mind, guests will be able to wine and dine in true MarBellous style at MarBella Nido’s San Giovanni Restaurant and the Apaggio Gourmet á la carte restaurant, and indulge in a range of authentic Greek and Italian cuisine. For a more relaxed gourmet offering,

PRIZE: County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with MarBella Collection to offer readers the chance to win a three-night stay for two people in a Junior Suite at MarBella Nido on a half-board basis.

guests can head to the Aquavit Pool á la carte for a light al fresco meal with spectacular views of the crystal clear Ionian Sea and the mainland coast of Greece.

MarBella Hotels’ strong wellness focus encompasses a delightful menu of spa therapies and treatments, from aromatherapy massages to full body scrubs from French spa brand Cinq Mondes ‒ leaving guests feeling pampered, de-stressed and re-invigorated. In addition, the hotel group has been working hard to enhance their foodie offering with new gastronomic adventures including cooking classes, expert wine tastings and local ‘Dine Out’ evenings at nearby tavernas.

This luxury seafront hotel offers direct access to an immaculate and fully serviced beach with sunbeds and parasols, guests are also welcome to make use of the water sports available at the hotel.

Alternatively, relaxation can be a full time occupation, simply bask in the Greek sun under the shade of a sun parasol with a refreshing drink in hand from MarBella Nido’s Aquavit Pool Bar. Visit www.marbella.gr/marbella-nido

HOW TO ENTER: For your chance to win, simply answer the following question: Which crystal clear sea can be seen from the pool bar?

Enter online at yourgloswilts.wedding

Closing date 8th October unless otherwise stated. Terms and Conditions apply. Please see our website for details.

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CLEARWELL CASTLE

FOREST OF DEAN

info@clearwell-castle.co.uk

01594 832320

GLOUCESTERSHIRE clearwell-castle.co.uk