SPOTLIGHT ON

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

THE CONNAUGHT HOTEL AND SPA, BOURNEMOUTH

01202 298 020 | www.theconnaught.co.uk

If you’re looking for toes-in-the-sand just-wed shots, this seaside venue is only a five-minute walk from the beach. Located on Bournemouth’s West Cliff, the four-star luxury boutique hotel is ideal if you’re planning a weekend-long celebration – and why wouldn’t you with everything you need right on the doorstep. There’s plenty of accommodation, not to mention a fully equipped gym and indulgent spa with an 18m swimming pool, free to use for anyone staying over. The town’s just a short stroll away too. The 19th-century building combines charm and character with modern luxury, from the contemporary reception area to the ‘London-look’ brasserie and intimate Gin Bar.

Licensed for ceremonies indoors and out, the hotel can host weddings with up to 130 guests and offers a range of attractive settings from the bright and modern Connaught Suite overlooking the terrace garden to the Franklyn Suite, a more neutral space; ideal for those looking to add their own personal stamp. The Courtyard Garden is a hidden gem; the perfect backdrop for outdoor ceremonies with up to 70 loved ones. Alternatively, Blake’s Restaurant, with its glistening chandeliers, is great for more intimate weddings.

THE KINGS ARMS, CHRISTCHURCH

01202 588 933 | www.harbourhotels.co.uk/kings-arms

If you can’t decide between traditional or contemporary style for your big day, this distinctive venue blends the old with the new to provide the best of both worlds. Set in the heart of Christchurch, the hotel enjoys fabulous views of Christchurch Castle, the town’s priory and Avon River.

Opposite the main building, the hotel has its own traditional bowling green and pavilion, which has been lovingly restored, into a beautiful New England style-wedding venue. A bright and airy space, the French doors open on to a private veranda, allowing the sunlight to fl ood in as you exchange vows watched by up to 96 guests. Afterwards, stroll across the lawns for a chilled drinks reception and enjoy some outdoor garden games.

For a private reception the Kings Priory Suite is ideal. With its own bar and dancefl oor there’s plenty of room for an evening reception with as many as 200 family and friends.

WE LOVE… that the venue hire also includes use of the private dining room for dinner the night before or post-wedding brunch for those that want to linger longer.

THE ITALIAN VILLA, POOLE

01202 030 727 | www.thevillacomptonacres.com

Marry here and you can be sure of a wealth of fabulous opportunities. Set within the renowned Compton Acres, you can enjoy free access to the 10 acres of manicured gardens on your big day. The multi award-winning venue provides a picture-perfect backdrop, beautifully designed over three fl oors complete with a balcony overlooking the breathtaking Italian Gardens; perfect for that Romeo and Juliet moment! You can say ‘I do’ with up to 180 guests in the sophisticated Verona Suite or for larger affairs, the magnifi cent Medici Suite can easily accommodate 180 loved ones. Leading directly out to the Italian Gardens you can host an al fresco drinks reception while the tables are being set for an elegant wedding breakfast. In the summer months you can also have your ceremony outside looking out across the ornamental pond to the sound of the birds and the water fountain.

For the evening celebration the Siena Suite provides the perfect place to party. Set up like an exclusive private members’ club it has a stage big enough for a live band or DJ, a dancefl oor and a comfy lounge for chilling out.

TIE THE KNOT AT THE RNLI

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Email: mail@lordbute.co.uk • www.lordbute.co.uk • 01425 278884 /Jfea8e mnfacf !M jor a �pd or w rur� at)�179 - 185 Lymington Road, Highcliffe, Dorset BH23 4JS *Prices correct at time of print. 12.2012 Email: mail@lordbute.co.uk • www.lordbute.co.uk • 01425 278884 179 - 185 Lymington Road, Highcliffe, Dorset BH23 4JS

*Prices correct at time of print. 12.2012

For a truly unique wedding why not experience our beautiful and contemporary waterfront setting. A wedding celebration at the home of the RNLI will make your special day even more memorable. As every pound spent goes towards saving lives at sea.

For more information contact our Wedding Coordinator on:

01202 663489 Email private_events@rnli.org.uk RNLl.org/college/weddings

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea.

Registered in England and Wales (209603) and

Scotland (SC037736).

Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic

of Ireland. (20003326) and the Bailwick of Jersey (14)

www.emmahurleyphotography.com REGIONAL VENUES

LORD BUTE, CHRISTCHURCH

01425 278 884 | www.lordbute.com

Framed under a canopy of trees, the Lord Bute is set within the original grounds of Highcliffe Castle. In keeping with the venue’s history the majestic 18th-century entrance lodges now form part of the venue’s grand exterior, providing wonderfully impressive bridal suites. Imposing white pillars and archways add to a great fi rst impression.

Step inside and discover boutique interiors ranging from the conservatory with its rustic arch windows to the dramatic Art Deco dining room boasting bold chandeliers. There’s 13 gorgeous bedrooms and suites for your wedding guests too and you can even have exclusive use of the whole place for a truly private wedding.

Nestled between the New Forest and the spectacular Dorset coast, sandy beaches and striking clifftops are only a stone’s throw away for spectacular album-worthy photos. The Garden Suite offers its own private landscaped garden, complete with palms and an elegant water feature.

Most ceremonies take place in the versatile and spacious main restaurant where receptions are also held. There’s room for up to 120 people, it can be adapted to suit the style of your celebration and if you want more space, a marquee can also be set up adjoining the restaurant. For intimate ‘I dos’, the Garden Suite is big enough for up to 25 guests inside or more using the outside space too. Further options for ceremonies include a romantic outdoor gazebo in the spacious outdoor courtyard.

WE LOVE… that it’s a bit of foodie heaven too. Renowned for its culinary excellence, with two AA Rosettes and a Michelin recommendation, there’s no pre-ordering required and you can work with the venue’s master chefs to create your own bespoke menu.

RNLI COLLEGE, POOLE

01202 662 261 | www.rnli.org/college

The RNLI College is a light bright modern venue with a fabulous waterfront setting on the edge of Poole Harbour overlooking Holes Bay. Licensed for ceremonies, there’s a choice of attractive rooms with bay views. The groundfl oor Waterfront Suite has direct access to the sea terrace right by the water’s edge; great for post-vows drinks. With the RNLI lifeboats moored on the pontoons it’s the perfect backdrop for standout photos. The suite can accommodate up to 200 ceremony guests, 150 for the wedding breakfast and an extra 50 for the evening celebration. For more intimate affairs, the Harbour View Suite provides a romantic setting and if you want to stay over, the venue has 60 harbour-view double bedrooms for guests plus there’s a complimentary wedding-night stay for the happy couple too.