NEARLYWED NEWS

Model Jess Robinson of www.modelmakeovers.co.uk

EDITOR LOVES…

This beauty gets our vote for an ultra fun and flirty bridal look. Available at Dorset’s exclusive Sarah Jane Bridal boutique, Sadie (Style Y12244) is a wonderfully dreamy tiered ballgown from Sophia Tolli’s latest collection. Made in soft organza and satin, it’s super lightweight, perfect for any time of year. Visit www.facebook.com/sarahjanebridalboutique

BIGGER AND BETTER

David Mellor Family Jewellers has turned the page on a new chapter in its long history. The independent family business has relocated to a new store in the Swan Centre, Eastleigh, three times bigger than its previous one. Great for couples on the hunt for their wedding jewellery, the business has already seen an increase in footfall. With three stores in Hampshire, as well as an on-site jewellery workshop specialising in repairs, design and manufacture, the company has channelled its modern and approachable ethos into the move. Amy Mellor explains, “We took the decision to relocate into larger premises as we had outgrown our previous space and felt a much more prominent location would be the best reflection of the way our business is moving forward. Since we opened at the beginning of February, we are already noticing an increase in customers, many of whom are brand-new faces which is lovely to see after nearly 40 years in the town!” The workshop has also been moved to the new premises. “From first-class customer service, to offering complimentary manicure vouchers with engagement ring purchases, we strive to provide something a little different for our customers,” adds Amy. Visit www.davidmellorjewellers.co.uk and flip to page 13 for an exclusive reader offer on their wedding bands, engagement and eternity rings. Love is in the air at Macdonald Hotels! Events experts from the leading hotel group recorded a 40 per cent increase in wedding enquiries in the first few weeks of 2022. Compared to the same period last year, it signals growing confidence that the wedding sector is once again booming. Katrina Dunlop, weddings marketing manager for Macdonald Hotels, says, “It is wonderful to see more couples starting to once again consider making that life-changing walk down the aisle. Between Christmas and Valentine’s Day has always been a popular time to get engaged, but when compared to the same period last year it is clear Nearlywed that we are moving towards prepandemic levels of enquiries.” Check out www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/elmers-court NEWS All the latest from around the region

www.charlottekimberleywise.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY

Be inspired by a showcase of hand-picked suppliers and fall in love with Hampshire’s stunning Stansted Park (www.stanstedpark.co.uk). The country house venue is hosting a wedding showcase on Sunday, 3rd April from 11am to 3pm, providing a one-stop-shop for everything from the Champagne and canapés, to flowers, photographers and more. The perfect opportunity to view the venue, the house will be dressed for a wedding. The music room will be partly set out for a ceremony and the drawing room styled for a formal wedding breakfast, with musicians playing inside and out to add to the atmosphere so you can picture your day there. with mobile catering units and wedding cars parked outside. Entry is free but to secure your place, tickets need to be booked visit www.stanstedpark.co.uk/wedding-showcase

FUN AND GLAMOUR

Shopping for your dream dress just got even better! Bournemouth bridal boutique Chameleon Bride has had a makeover and now not only has a chic new coastal look, but a whole lot of other goodies too. The boutique has been completely rebranded and as well as fabulous new luxe appeal, it now has its own bar to add to the experience!

Owner Anneliese Ward has been at the helm for the past six years and has transformed the business into a destination hotspot for bridesto-be. First opened as a women’s clothes shop 38 years ago, since Anneliese took over in October 2016, she has introduced a whole raft of improvements and now has three bridal fitting rooms, including a VIP one, and a mother-of-the-bride shop which was launched last April. “We also have a brand new bar for customers, serving gin, bubbly and even refreshing slushies during the warmer months,” adds Anneliese. If that’s not tempting enough, there’s popcorn and sweet treats too with their ‘Bubbles and Bon Bon’ appointments!

Visit www.chameleonbride.co.uk to find out more.

GET CONNECTED

Here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we’re literally never satisfied when it comes to providing you with wedspiration. With this in mind, we’ve created our very own YouTube channel, just for you. Discover everything from venue tours to dream dresses, catch up on beauty reviews and how-tos from our beauty editor and peek behind the scenes of styled shoots. You can even be a fly on the wall at some lovely real weddings! We’re adding more content all the time, so why not hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a thing? Simply head to YouTube and search County Wedding Magazines. LET THE FUN B-GIN

Add a local flavour to the big-day drinks menu with Mermaid Pink Gin. Infused with the fresh flavour of Isle of Wight strawberries, the award-winning tipple creates an aromatic and refreshing drink – great for a gin bar or fabulous cocktail. Try this for a tempting tipple to impress your guests:

Mermaid Pink Gin Bitter French 25ml Mermaid Pink Gin | 10ml Campari | 12.5ml lemon juice | 12.5ml sugar syrup | Champagne

Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake and strain into a chilled flute. Top with champagne and garnish with a twist of grapefruit.

CONGRATULATIONS!

A big Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding high five to Dorsetbased Mobile BBQ & Catering. Specialists in providing a range of top quality food for weddings and events, the company has been recognised in the Corporate Livewire South England Prestige Awards 2021/2022. The awards honour small and medium-sized businesses proven to be the best in their field. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the company, which was founded in 1992. Thrilled owner Sayed Soliman says, “I was nominated by a guest from a function I catered for so I had no idea about the award.” Check out www.mobilebbq.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY THAT’S ALL ABOUT YOU www.emilysandovalphotography.com

07807 462 804 • hello@emilysandovalphotography.com •

EXAMPLE PRICES FOR HIRE

Black Herringbone Tailcoat Grey and Black Stripe Trousers Choice of Waistcoat ..... £79.50

Navy Blue Tweed 2 Piece ..... £89.50 3 Piece ..... £99.50

Mohair Suit (range of colours) 2 Piece Suit ..... £89.50 3 Piece Suit ..... £99.50

Black Tie Suit ..... £77.50

Discover our full guide: www.hectorsclothing.com/pages/hire

HECTOR’S is a traditional gentleman’s outfitters with a modern flourish. A shop helping gents keep up their appearance in stylish kit. POP | INDIE | MOTOWN | ROCK

AWARD WINNING LIVE BAND FOR WEDDINGS & EVENTS

Playing your favourite Pop, Indie, Rock and Motown classics from 50’s to today.

Rated number 1 South East Wedding Band by Book Entertainment, 2020. WWW.BIGTOWNBOPPERS.CO.UK

bigtownboppers@gmail.com | 07969 573 523 Facebook @TheBigTownBoppers

SAY ‘I DO’ AT

MACDONALD ELMERS COURT HOTEL & RESORT Set within 23 acres of beautiful grounds, the 19th century Manor House has retained all of its original character and features. Understated elegance and a picture perfect background ensure a truly magical wedding day.