Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - Issue 94 September/October 2022

6

Olivia Gibson shares her top picks from this issue

9

Catch up on news from around the counties

13

Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

75 HOT TOPIC

Local experts offer stellar advice on wedding dilemmas

91

Win a minimoon in the Algarve worth £1,000

15 LOCAL

Fall in love with these stunning properties in Winchester east Hampshire

21 THE

Standout for weddings with a difference

On the cover

This cover’s image is taken from the regional shoot on page 49, which was captured by the talented https://dombrenton.com.

FEATURES

45 GO FOR GOLD

Be inspired by this modern shoot, which features a spring colour palette and luxurious styling

49 OH-SO ELEGANT

The Mansion at Coldeast provided the perfect backdrop to this styled shoot

55 TIMELESS LOVE

Talented suppliers came together to create this classic and elegant shoot at the Dorset Museum

59 LOOKING YOUR BEST

Be inspired by the latest fashion trends and styles

81 THE A TEAM

Your A to Z guide to hen and stag dos

86 OUR HAPPILY EVER AFTER County Wedding Magazines’ senior editor Melissa Cullen shares her wedding planning journey

Autumnal vibes

Hello lovely readers and welcome to another issue of Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding

If you’re new here, you’ve come to the right place as we cover everything from bridal boutiques, stunning venues, beauty news, photographers, florists and more!

You’ll discover the latest trends, talented experts and plenty of showstopping inspiration.

For those at the end of their planning journey, we have top tips and advice to ensure your day runs smoothly and the perfect last-minute touches to create wow-factor events.

Weddings are such joyful occasions, and there’s nothing more special than marrying your soulmate. For those that have been reading the last few issues, you’ll know that my best friend tied the knot in July and what an incredible day it was. As a bridesmaid, it has been such a special experience helping a dear friend plan such an important event. Watching everything come together on the day was very emotional. I’ll never forget that moment when I watched the bride make her grand entrance – I had to fight back the tears as I couldn’t ruin my make-up! The ceremony was beautiful, with many heartwarming words shared. Overall, we had a fantastic day with plenty of pampering, memorable moments, excellent food and great entertainment. I spent the entire evening living it up on the dancefloor – you should see the videos!

Planning a wedding might seem like a scary or overwhelming experience, but we’re here to guide you through the whole process from the moment you get engaged to the honeymoon. Make sure to flick to our real wedding features and read all about local weddings; here, you’ll find plenty of inspiration. That’s all from me; now sit back, relax and celebrate anything and everything wedding.

If you’re searching for the one, check out this stunning dress with a square neckline, exposed bodice boning and a double sculpted caged train.

Psst, save 10 per cent off wedding hair and make-up services with Bex Elizabeth.

WEDDING FAIR

Situated in Dorchester, Dorset Museum is hosting a wedding fair this autumn, and the team is excited to welcome nearlyweds.

The event takes place on Sunday 2nd October 2022 between 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, which is perfect timing as the venue is now open for bookings in 2023. Here lovebirds will be able to meet more than 25 talented suppliers from around Hampshire and Dorset for free. From venue stylists, photographers and entertainers to florists, bridal boutiques and caterers, the fair will help lovebirds plan all aspects of theirUponday.arrival,

guests will be greeted with some fizz and a goody bag full of helpful planning tools. One lucky pair will win 50 per cent off a full-day venue hire in the Museum’s Victorian Hall.

The Dorset Museum offers the perfect setting for memorable weddings with a range of function spaces suitable for all types of weddings and budgets. The committed events team is experienced in hosting memorable weddings and is there to help assist lovebirds.

Check out: www.dorsetmuseum.org

A DREAMY SETTING

After more than two years of renovations, Abbots Court Rural Retreat & Wedding Venue is now open for weddings.

Situated in Blandford Forum, the property has received its civil ceremony license and can now host 30 nuptials per year.

The renovations saw the Victorian Stables completely transformed into a magical setting and can now host 80 guests. A new wedding pavilion has been created in the restored Walled Garden, and now creates a romantic atmosphere surrounded by nature.

Guests can retreat to the six new glamping pods after celebrations have ended. Each one is fully equipped with electricity, and guests can enjoy the campfire in the evenings. The director at Abbots Court, Simon Brooks, is excited to welcome nearlyweds to the venue. He says, “After two years of renovations, we could not be happier with the final result. We are delighted to be able to accommodate wedding parties of 80 to 120 people to enjoy a private slice of Dorset’s stunning countryside within Abbots’ idyllic and sprawling grounds.”

Check out: www.abbots-court.co.uk

PLANNING SOS

Tasha Mae can help coordinate weddings at any venue and is excited to announce she’s the new wedding coordinator for the brand new DIY wedding and events venue, Palais des Vaches in Exbury.

When organising DIY wedding, generally speaking, it tends to be in venues without an on-site coordinator, such as art galleries, barns, marquees, village halls or even in gardens. Nevertheless, Tasha Mae Wedding Co-ordinator can step in to help couples coordinate their special day. They won’t have to worry that everyone and everything is in the right place at the right time, meaning they won’t be handing out jobs to friends and family.

Along the wedding planning journey, Tasha can help suggest ideas and recommend suppliers. Working together with couples to create their tailored time plan, the award-winning company offers professional and experienced wedding coordination to ensure their big day runs smoothly. From serving drinks and canapés, directing guests, prompting timings, meeting suppliers and even clearing up along the way, nothing is too much trouble for the team.

Check out:

TIME TO CELEBRATE

Located in Romsey, The Palmerston Rooms B&B are now offering wedding receptions.

For those looking for a historic setting, couples can hire the light and airy downstairs dinning area for 20 to 30 people and can use the marquee in the courtyard garden if needed. Guests won’t have to worry about travelling home as the Grade II listed venue has eight individually refurbished bedrooms.

Owners Graham and Kay Choules has worked hard to bring the stunning spaces to life. Graham says, “Kay and I really enjoy welcoming groups into the house for a special get together and offering them great hospitality. So far those that have had lunch or dinner here have gone away having had a really special time.”

Graham has been in the hospitality industry as a chef for a long time and offers an selection of dishes. He adds, “I enjoy producing food using as many seasonal and local ingredients as Checkpossible.”out: www.thepalmerstonrooms.com

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

BEST DRESSED GIRLS

British designer Dawn Clarke has released a new collection of silk celebration dresses that will make any little girl feel like a princess.

Owner Dawn Clarke specialises in UK-made luxury, ethical children’s garments for special occasions. Her first collection with a small Somerset manufacturer is perfect for flowergirls. She says, “These dresses are some of my favourite designs with lots of gathering and layers of petticoats to create a classic shape. The pieces are made with the finest silk and feature some beautiful extra details.”

The dresses are available in daffodil yellow, navy blue and natural white. Silk sashes in other colours can be added, and alternative dress shades are available for bespoke orders.

Dawn sketches her ideas and creates the pattern draft to technical specifications for manufacturing at her Hampshire studio. She uses British suppliers wherever possible and only manufactures in the UK.

A stand-out embellishment is an embroidered privacy panel behind the zip that proudly declares ‘made in England’. The dresses are lined with habotai silk and feature pretty piping, hidden pockets and petticoats trimmed with British lace. Suitable for children aged two to six, the dresses can be dry-cleaned.

Check out: www.dawnclarkedesigns.co.uk

Based in Dorset, Clover & Fern offers wedding planning, coordination and styling services. The team specialises in creating stylish, relaxed and sophisticated weddings for wildly in love couples. Here at YHDW HQ, we caught up with owner Phoebe Taylor to discover more about the company.

What does the company offer nearlyweds?

Phoebe says,“The on-the-day coordination package is perfect for that final month of planning, as that’s when we take over all communications with suppliers to help bring couples’ visions to life and leave them feeling relaxed in the run-up to their wedding. A coordinator doesn’t just oversee the running of your day; they are a friend, an advisor, a sounding board, a problem solver, a candle lighter, a buttonhole fixer and a prosecco pourer – the list goes on! Our packages are tailored to weddings, so a free consultation is offered to help us understand each pair’s vision for their day.

When did the company begin?

“I started Clover & Fern in 2021 after years of working for venues as a wedding coordinator. I started the company because I wanted to channel my creativity and love for all things weddings! Being a planner and coordinator means I get the chance to be involved with every aspect of a wedding day and I love to see it all come together.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

“My favourite part of the job would have to be when I see my couples walk down the aisle to be married. It’s such a beautiful moment, and all that matters is that two people are coming together to celebrate their love for each other. It’s so amazing to see, and I’m always grateful to witness

Checkit.”out:

www.cloverandfern.co.uk

www.danielleveitch.com

Rhinefield House oozes period charm and character features. Its historic Grand Hall, contemporary Hurst Castle and acres of manicured lawns and outdoor space provide plenty of options for the ultimate fairytale wedding with grandeur, and modernity wedding showcase dates throughout the year with and exclusive use options, visit our website. 622922

Exclusive use venue with onsite accommodation. incredible 16th Century Purbeck stone barn can seat 130 with capacity of to 180 in the evening, use stunning grounds for a more intimate setting.

A

LOOKING YOUR BEST

Based in Dorset, Bex Elizabeth provides bespoke bridal hair and make-up services across the south coast. Owner Rebecca Lewis offers relaxed and memorable mornings for brides while creating the most beautiful looks. Rebecca loves to achieve romantic, textured styles and glowing skin by enhancing natural features to ensure clients look and feel beautiful.

We’ve teamed up with the company to offer readers 10 per cent off all wedding services when they quote Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding before the 1st of November 2022. Please note, this offer doesn’t include travel costs.

Rebecca loves building friendships with all her brides from their initial enquiry through to their wedding day. She says. “I’m fortunate to meet such lovely people. It’s the best feeling when my clients are all ready and I get to see their smiley, sometimes nervous faces before they walk out the door.”

FreebiesOFFERS

Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

ACCESSORISE AND SHINE

Award-winning Danish brand Sif Jakobs Jewellery is renowned for creating modern, luxurious designs with an affordable price tag. The jewellery is made of rhodium, 18k rose gold or yellow gold plated 925 sterling silver, featuring high-quality zirconia stones that create a sophisticated and dramatic expression often featured in Sif Jakobs’ collections.

County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Sif Jakobs Jewellery to give readers the chance to win this necklace and earring set worth £158 from the coveted Belluno collection. Made with 925 sterling silver and the highest quality cubic zirconia, all jewellery is handcrafted and carefully inspected to ensure perfection.

Visit https://sifjakobs.com

Visit www.bexelizabeth.com or email bexelizabeth@hotmail.com for more information.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER ONLINE AT WWW.YOURHAMPSHIRE.WEDDING Closing date 30th November, 2022, unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions apply.

Nestled in the heart of Winchester, Chesil House offers exclusive use, panoramic views of the secluded gardens and stunning river scene.

With the perfect blend of historic and modern features Chesil House is an enchanting setting for both your ceremony and wedding reception.

The River View Room with its bi-fold doors leading to a spacious deck offers uninterrupted river views, and an alfresco feel for your wedding.

GOING local

Fall in

CHAWTON 541 010

For those on the hunt for a romantic wedding setting, this historic venue ticks all the boxes. The grand Elizabethan manor house is set in an idyllic location with uninterrupted and spectacular parkland views. Once owned by Jane Austen’s brother Edward Austen Knight, Chawton House boasts a wealth of standout features, including panelled rooms, elegant staircases, fabulous aspects, and stunning grounds.

Couples can host intimate and romantic ceremonies in the Oak Room or for grander weddings, say “I do” in the Great Hall with up to 70 loved ones before enjoying drinks receptions in the Old Kitchen and Courtyard. Situated in the parkland surrounding Chawton House, the 18th-century Dyers Barn can accommodate 100 people and provides a beautiful rustic setting for both ceremonies and receptions.

We love…

With 275 acres of grounds, beautiful terraces and a Walled Garden, there’s a wealth of fabulous photo opportunities both inside and out.

01962 820

Nestled in the heart of Winchester, Chesil House is a must-see hidden gem. Set on the banks of the River Itchen, the stunning 19th-century venue provides an idyllic setting for magical weddings. With secluded gardens, stunning riverside views and beautiful rooms, it offers a wealth of enchanting spaces for special events. Enjoy exclusive use of the intimate venue, which is licensed for both ceremonies and receptions with family and friends. Memorable views of the river and garden from every window offer a stunning backdrop throughout the day

and with bi-fold doors leading to a spacious decking area, lovebirds can enjoy wedding breakfasts with an al fresco feel. The Walled Garden, with its sweeping lawns, colourful landscape borders and private bridge, provides a host of standout photo opportunities and a great location for drinks receptions. With bespoke packages tailored specifically to suit different couples, the award-winning resident caterers can create a little bit of foodie heaven.

We love… The stunning views from the deck overlooking the fast-flowing tributary and private garden.

THE

01730 828111 www.angel-hotel.co.uk

Nestled in the picturesque South Downs near the Meon Valley, The Angel Hotel is definitely one of Hampshire’s rediscovered gems when it comes to hotels.

The landscaped Oak Garden offers the ideal photographic setting with different backdrops to discover. The helpful team will be on hand to ensure couples have memorable events, especially the wedding coordinator who has plenty of experience.

The venue has a weekend planned to celebrate the relaunch of the property with a wedding showcase on the 24th and 25th of September 2022. Here the team will proudly showcase The Nicholson Suite, an air-conditioned space that will accommodate weddings of up to 120

people. With a private entrance, bespoke bar and feature glass atrium – the space has everything needed. Added to the existing barn-style room, the suite will most certainly make its mark on the Hampshire’s wedding and event industry.

Looking forward to next year and 2024, the team are planning to host marquee weddings with up to 150 people in the secluded Rear Oak Garden.

We love…

With 36 high-quality bedrooms and a luxurious bridal suite, guests can rest their heads after dancing the night away.

The Angel Hotel is nestled in the picturesque South Downs near the Meon Valley and is definitely one of Hampshire’s rediscovered gems when it comes to Hotels.

With its 36 Quality Bedrooms and a Luxury Bridal Suite, ease of access and multiple car parking spaces plus a spacious Restaurant, it’s long been a popular place locally for those who are in the know.

We have a very exciting relaunch weekend planned with a Wedding Showcase taking place on the 24th & 25th September 2022, which will be advertised extensively on our Website & Social Media.

We will at that time be proudly showcasing our fabulous new Function Facility; The Nicholson Suite. An Air Conditioned Venue Space that will accommodate Weddings of up to 120 people with its own private entrance, bespoke bar and feature glass atrium. Added on to our existing Barn Styled Room this will most certainly make its mark on Hampshire’s Wedding & Event Industry.

Our landscaped Oak Garden offers you the ideal photo opportunity and finally as your Wedding draws to a close, then our sumptuous Luxury Bridal Suite will be available for you to complete your day.

We are also be planning to host Marquee Weddings for 150 plus in 2023 & 2024 in our secluded Rear Oak Garden. Be sure to visit our website at www.angel-hotel.co.uk to register for future updates, express your interest in attending the Wedding Showcase, view the Walkthrough Videos and Download our Wedding Brochure.

GOSPORT ROAD, PRIVETT, ALTON, HAMPSHIRE, GU34 3NN Telephone: 01730 828111 | Email: events@angel-hotel.co.uk | Website www.angel-hotel.co.uk

Also check out...

STANSTED PARK

Set in more than 1,000 acres in the South Downs National Park, with far-reaching views across open countryside and ancient woodland, this former home of the Earls of Bessborough is ideal for those wanting a distinctive backdrop for their big day.

Check out: www.stanstedpark.co.uk

WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL

Set in the heart of the historic city, Winchester Cathedral is renowned as one of the finest Medieval cathedrals in Europe. A jewel in the city’s crown, countless couples have posed for just-wed shots in front of the famous landmark.

Check www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/venue-hire/weddingsout:

AVINGTON PARK

Through the wrought iron gateway and down the long avenue of lime trees, couples will discover the historic Avington Park. Beautiful inside and out, with two conservatories flanking a pillared orangery, the venue dates back to the 10th-century and has a wonderfully grand feel to the interior.

Check out: www.avingtonpark.co.uk

OLD THORNS

Originally a farmhouse, this versatile venue has been transformed over the last two decades into one of the region’s wedding hotspots. We’re talking ten different spaces licensed for ceremonies, panoramic countryside views, a spa, health club, bars and restaurants, bags of accommodation and not to mention an 18-hole championship golf course!

Check out: www.oldthorns.com

THE BOXOutside

Standout venues for a big day with a difference

PALAIS DES VACHES

02380 243 102 | www.palaisdesvaches.co.uk

Situated deep in the countryside, Palais des Vaches is a renovated art gallery that provides the ideal setting for weddings and events. The property is surrounded by rolling fields with views over Beaulieu River and the Solent to the Isle of Wight.

Couples can have blessings and memorable receptions surrounded by loved ones. The Cow Palace can accommodate around 120 people and features high ceilings, 100-year-old beams and magnificent artwork. Alternatively, the Goat Pen has been lovingly restored to create the perfect space for around 50 loved ones and overlooks the beautiful landscape. For smaller celebrations, The Monkey Room is perfect with comfortable sofas and chairs.

For outdoor weddings, the courtyard is a statement in itself with gorgeous trees, handmade tables, carved-wooden gates, parasols and sculptures – there’s even space to accommodate food vans and mobile bars in the evenings.

Or why not opt for the north facing lawn, which is ideal for marquee or outdoor ceremonies? It provides the perfect location for outdoor games or play areas to keep guests entertained. Lastly, the Butterfly Meadow is a picture-perfect spot with breathtaking views. Please note, no structures or food are allowed in this area and access is limited in the evenings. Palais des Vaches is offered exclusively to couples over a four-day day hire, which means couples can relax knowing they’ll have a stress-free wedding.

DORSET MUSEUM

01305 262735

The Dorset Museum is an iconic wedding venue located in the heart of Dorchester’s town centre.

The original building was designed in 1883 by G. R. Crickmay and showcases many Victorian features.

Home of 250 million years of Dorset’s history, couples can get married in one of the unique spaces. Offering exclusive hire of the wonderful areas and facilities, the team can create the perfect setting tailored directly to any needs.

Exchange vows in The Dorset Story Space with 24 guests who will love the classic wooden panelling from Tyneham House. Or hold intimate ceremonies in the stunning library surrounded by more than 30,000 books on Dorset’s history. With its Victorian oriel window, the bright space creates the perfect setting for 10 people.

At the heart of the museum is the magnificent Victorian Hall, which can accommodate 120 loved ones and was designed in 1884 – it’s perfect for larger ceremonies and receptions. The Roman mosaic flooring and stained-glass rose windows plus neo-Gothic architecture will help make all weddings memorable.

THE GURKHA MUSEUM

01962 842 832 www.thegurkhamuseum.co.uk

Located in the historic Peninsula Barracks in the heart of Winchester, The Gallery is a magnificent function room within The Gurkha Museum. The building was chosen more than 400 years ago by King Charles II as the site of a palace, designed in the manner of Versailles to overlook WinchesterModelledCathedral.originally on an Indian Army Mess, The Gallery can host 60

seated or 100 standing guests for intimate receptions. The space houses valuable picture, silver, medal and badge collections, which is an integral part of the display area.

The function room is furnished to the highest standards and includes a private bar area, main dining sapce and kitchen where the property’s exclusive caterer provides sumptuous and authentic Nepalese curry buffets.

To keep guests occupied, loved ones are free to roam the museum during the day.

TAKE YOUR Wedding Day NEW HEIGHTS

To 02392 Tower, Gunwharf

The Tuscan style Beaulieu River to the of Wight

God’s House Tower (GHT) is a stunning multi-purpose arts and heritage venue in the heart of Southampton’s historic and beautifully-preserved Old Town.

We have a number of unique spaces housed in this iconic 700-year-old Grade 1 Listed Monument, which are ideal for intimate wedding receptions and larger parties, and available to hire individually or in combination to create a bespoke and truly special occasion in memorable surroundings.

With panoramic views across Southampton Water, iconic exterior and fascinating interior that seamlessly blends the ancient and the modern, an occasion at GHT is unlike any other.

God’s House Tower, Town Quay Road, Southampton, SO14 2NY

Located in Portsmouth, Spinnaker Tower is the perfect setting for exquisite ceremonies and exclusive receptions.

The stunning views of the south coast create an idyllic backdrop for romantic weddings and photographs.

Located at 105 metres, View Deck 2 offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching up to 23 miles. The unique space can hold up to 70 guests for intimate ceremonies at 5.15 pm, where happy couples can exchange vows in front of the most stunning views.

Wedding breakfasts take place on View Deck 1, which features a glass

floor where 70 guests can indulge in the luxury of dining 100 metres in the sky, surrounded by sparkling night-time views or spectacular sunsets. The caterers are happy to devise a bespoke menu in consultation with their head chef tailored to specific requirements.

Evening guests are invited to join couples in the Spinnaker Kitchen & Bar from 9.30 pm where they can enjoy music and dancing. They too can share the whole Spinnaker Tower experience as the View Decks stay open until 11 pm. The space can accommodate 200 people, who will love the wide areas, outside terrace and bar space.

For those not having a sit-down meal, View Deck 1 is another option for receptions. HOUSE TOWER

God’s House Tower is a stunning multi-purpose venue at the southeastern entrance to Southampton’s historic and beautifully preserved Old Town. After an extensive and sensitive refurbishment, the tower is now thriving in its present-day incarnation as a cutting-edge arts, heritage and events venue.

The iconic 700-year-old Grade I listed monument houses numerous intimate and grand spaces for weddings. The areas are available to hire individually or in combination to create bespoke and truly special occasions in memorable surroundings.

A self-contained and flexible space, the Crawford Room is the perfect location for celebrant-led ceremonies and drinks receptions. The room is

the oldest corner of the building and features an ancient wooden beamed roof, and dramatic views overlooking the Old Town. For larger events, the Main Gallery is the biggest wedding space and is ideally suited for receptions. Or why not opt for The Tower Roof, which provides panoramic views across the Port of Southampton?

Alternatively, The Cafe & Bar is a flexible space perfect for drinks receptions and parties. With its blend of historic and modern architectural design, it comes with a fully stocked bar.

Lastly, the courtyard is a shaded outside space available to hire in combination with any other part of the building. Tucked away on Lower Canal walk, it comes with or without outdoor tables and chairs with options for a pop-up bar to serve drinks directly from the courtyard.

After dark, the structure is lit to create an awe-inspiring presence –creating the perfect backdrop for photographs.

A dreamy day

Elisha and Adam had an Italian wedding with a grey and gold colour scheme

Images courtesy of Jack Aldridge Photography

Elisha and Adam met through mutual friends at school and have been a couple ever since. No matter how much time they spent together, they always managed to make each other laugh and have made so many amazing memories over theAdamyears.proposed on Christmas day after hiding a ring in a cracker to surprise Elisha – of course she said ‘yes’. The pair set the wedding for July 25th 2021, and created a memorable day surrounded by loved ones.

SETTING THE SCENE

When it came to finding the perfect setting for their special day, the couple fell in love with The Italian Villa in Poole. It was the beautiful gardens that first caught their attention and the venue’s stunning décor, especially in the Medici Suite where ceremonies take place. With beautiful arches, pillars and floorlength windows overlooking the gardens, the pair knew it was perfect location for their vows.

To decorate the fabulous spaces, the couple hired The House of Styling and the team captured the pair’s vision perfectly. A stunning foliage arch was placed at the top of the aisle, which created a beautiful backdrop for the “I dos”. Candles, terrariums, trees and hanging tea lights added a magical atmosphere to the ceremony space and set the tone for the rest of the day.

The reception space was already decorated with fairylights, so the couple added hanging wisteria and lanterns above the dancefloor. The trestle tables were decorated with foliage, white flowers in small pots, candles, tea lights, terrariums, floating candles, gold pineapples and grey napkins.

The groom wanted to incorporate some of his favourite films into the table plan, so each table had a Marvel symbol paired with a movie quote.

For favours, each guest was given a mini bottle with spirit inside, which doubled up as place names. To add some extra fun, everyone also had a scratch card.

The pair wanted rustic and natural looking blooms, so they opted for wildflowers, green foliage, olive vines and peonies –the bridesmaids had smaller versions.

As the wedding took place during the end of the pandemic, the bride created personalised tissues and hand sanitisers that could clip onto bags – this was very popular with loved ones.

The pair served beer and prosecco during the drinks reception – their favourite beverages. As the venue was set within botanical gardens, guests had access to look around the beautiful spaces during this time.

To keep guests from going hungry, a barbecue was served with five different meat and vegetarian options. For dessert, loved ones enjoyed beautifully presented white chocolate, raspberry and honeycomb domes. There was a snack buffet in the evening with mini fish and chip cones, burgers, bacon rolls and cheese toasties.

A huge hit with guests was the snack bar with pick ‘n’ mix sweets, personalised cookies, crisps, pretzels, popcorn and the wedding cake which featured raspberry, white chocolate, butterscotch and lemon flavours.

LOOKING THE PART

While searching for the perfect gown, the bride fell in love with a mermaid-style dress by Justin Alexander. To finish off her look, she wore a matching pearl cathedral-length veil and a custommade flower crown. She says, “I felt so excited once I was all ready as I look exactly how I’d envisioned”

Adam wanted to stand out from the groomsmen and wore a custom blue pinstripe suit with a grey checked waistcoat and brown shoes from Moss Bros. The others wore navy blue three-piece suits.

The bridesmaids wore grey multiway dresses while the flowergirl wore a white dress with flower petals to match the bride’s gown.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

The pair hired a DJ and steel drum combo to keep guests entertained in the evening, which was a huge hit with their loved ones. Guests said they’d never experienced anything like it before, they thought it was really different! People were on the dancefloor all night having such a lovely time together.

The day was such a whirlwind for the couple, but they mainly just felt so happy to be getting married surrounded by loved ones after Covid restrictions stopped people from seeing each other. “The day was more than we’d hoped and imagined – the ceremony really stood out to us the most”, says the bride. She adds, “A funny moment from the day was when one of the groomsmen split his trousers from front to back on the dancefloor.”

Adam thought that before the ceremony, him and Elisha were doing a first look. She says, “I convinced him that our photographer Jack wanted to try something different, and we dressed the best man in a dress and veil – we got some great photos and

Anothervideos!memorable moment from the day was when the groom’s brother did the most incredible speech that was so lovely and funny.

The couple’s suppliers really did make their day extra special and one to remember, especially Kirsty and Laura at The House of Styling. The bride says, “Not only did they completely nail our dream day, but they were so incredible throughout the planning process. They would check in during the lockdowns, were so good when we had to change our date and nothing was ever too much trouble.” She adds, “Our photographer was also amazing and made us both feel comfortable. It felt as though he was one of our friends, which we felt was important when we booked him as we would be spending nearly the whole day together.” The venue’s wedding coordinator was just the best and made sure everything ran smoothly on the day, Drew was so helpful and friendly to everyone.

HONEYMOON

As Covid restrictions had only just started to relax, the couple decided to go on a minimoon to Bath in a lovely boutique hotel. They have booked a tour of Italy for their honeymoon, which will start off in Sorrento and Capri, before travelling to Florence and Rome for two weeks.

The Port  House , Marina Keep , Port Solent PO6 4TH  has just finished a major refurbishment which has seen  the venue transformed into a beautiful waterside venue with contemporary furnishing and delicious bespoke Hampshire  food and produce , the on site caterers are vanilla catering and 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. They are members of county food group Hampshire Fare and are thus committed to using as much locally sourced produce for their menus as possible. www.hampshirefare.co.uk

On booking your wedding at the Port House you are appointed with a wedding planner who will advise on everything from timings to table plans. This is a complimentary service supplied to all couples There is a fully licensed bar on site which has been manufactured from reclaimed railway sleepers making it a wonderful focal point at  the venue. Parking is complimentary and plentiful.

The Port House is licensed for civil ceremonies and can be hired for exclusive use for you wedding day. In its flexible, purpose designed space, it is capable of accommodating small numbers for intimate private fine-dining through to weddings for 180 guests. www.vanillacatering.co.uk02392385389| 01489589275

GLAMOUR Country

Josh and Sammy’s white and champagne colour scheme was the perfect option for their showstopping wedding at Sopley Mill

Images courtesy of Aurelia Allen Photography

Josh and Sammy both lived in the same block of flats when they first met. After getting to know each other better, they discovered their shared sense of humour and similar personalities. After months of being good friends, the pair slowly fell in love and started dating.

During a family camping trip to Cornwall back in 2019, Josh proposed to Sammy after asking her daughter’s permission weeks before. Sammy comments, “We were down by the river on rowing boats in the most beautiful setting. With my family around me, who were all in on it, he got down on one knee and popped the question.” She adds, “I was completely shocked and took a long time to say ‘yes’ because I had to keep pinching myself.”

Here Sammy shares details about their special day...

I wanted to use as many white and beige tones as possible, so I asked my stylist to use pampas grass, white candles and a floral archway.

I was super relaxed in the morning and excited once I arrived at the ceremony.

Seeing Josh cry so much when our daughter walked down the aisle and again for me was a moment that stood out – I’ve never seen so many tears!

My brother flew over from Australia and sang during the ceremony, which was so special as the pandemic meant he would have missed our original wedding date due to travel restrictions at the time.

We wanted our theme to be country glamour, so we had many brass accessories, gold lanterns and huge pampas centrepieces. I kept the place names and menus simple with calligraphy writing and gold wax melts.

Josh picked Sopley Mill for our venue, and I loved how we could style the spaces to match our theme and colour scheme.

My venue stylist added a gold sequin backdrop with a neon sign to add a touch of glamour to our photos.

I picked orchid flowers for my bouquet because I wanted something messy yet glamorous – I loved how simple yet showstopping they looked.

We had a barbecue for our wedding breakfast as we wanted something light and delicious – everyone said the food was fantastic.

We had a beautiful wedding cake, which looked stunning. We had lemon, elderflower, white chocolate, raspberry and salted caramel flavours.

I wore a stunning sheer and lace bodice dress that was perfect for my figure. I paired the gown with a cathedral-length veil and a stunning

We used old acrylic stands for our table numbers, and the seating plan was on a huge antique mirror.

Josh wore a beige suit, brown waistcoat, a bow tie and a gold bumble bee pin given to him by his mum the night before the wedding to symbolise family.

We thoroughly planned the evening playlist with our DJ, so everyone would be up dancing all night.

I felt a million dollars on the day! My vision came to life and I just felt so beautiful – I did a little cry too!

SAMMY AND JOSH’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK

We visited the Dominican Republic for our honeymoon. We both planned the twoweek trip and absolutely love it – especially snorkelling, the unlimited cocktails and the private swimming pool.

Venue, www.sopleymill.co.uk | Photographer, www.aureliaallenphotography.com | Bride’s dress, www.wed2b.com | Hair, www.chloemollyhair.co.uk | Make-up, www.instagram.com/michaelaselenemakeup | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Oasis | Groom’s suit, Moss Bros. | Cake, www.fanciecake.co.uk | Flowers, www.simplyflower.co.uk | Entertainment, www.weperform.co.uk | Catering, www.signaturecateringco.co.uk | Venue styling, www.effortlesselegancebyhollylouise.co.uk | Hampshire registrars, www.hants.gov.uk/registration | Singer, www.instagram.com/danielrnixon | Videographer, www.jackaldridgephotography.co.uk

The bridesmaids looked beautiful in champagne off-the-shoulder dresses, which matched the red carpet vibe I was looking for.

Wedding and Event Venue Decoration a truly unique wedding in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SC037736). number CHY 2678 in the Republic of (20003326)

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Rachael and Charlie first met on Tinder, where they got on well and discovered their shared interests. After going on a few dates, the pair started dating and the rest is history!

Charlie proposed just weeks after the birth of their second daughter. “It was a normal Saturday evening at home with the girls when Charlie asked if I would like to have the same surname as our children”, says Rachael. She adds, “We celebrated with a bottle of champagne while I admired the beautiful teardrop halo ring. I had fallen in love with the ring while at a family wedding in York; Charlie went back to the shop to purchase it and hid the ring with various members of ourHerefamilies.”Rachael shares details about their special day...

Rachael and Charlie tied the knot at Oakley Hall Hotel in Basingstoke Images courtesy of HS Photography

Oakley Hall Hotel was the whole package with beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, including the ceremony and reception areas.

Each table had a champagne bottle surrounded by a beautiful wreath of flowers from our florist.

We wrote letters to each table to help everyone get to know each other better. Each guest or couple had a paragraph to read out loud to their table about how we met them.

I picked an Enzoani dress with a detachable skirt as I loved the idea of having two styles in one. The skirt was perfect for the ceremony and photographs before I took it off in the evening.

We had heart-shaped mint favours, which said ‘mint to be’. cake reflected our

The bridesmaids wore dark purple gowns while the flowergirls wore sparkly dresses in blush.

Oakley Hall provided us with outside games such as croquet and cricket, where competitive matches occurred between family and friends.

The groom wore a dark blue checked suit from Marc Darcy, while the groomsmen wore light blue suits with dark purple ties to match the bridesmaids.

I wore a long veil, a beautiful hairpiece and pearl jewellery to accessorise my look.

We had a photo booth, sweet cart and a flower wall for our guests to use as a backdrop to photographs.

I felt nervous in the weeks leading up to the wedding as I wanted everything to be perfect. On the day, I loved all the morning preparations and felt calm, relaxed and excited. Charlie says I looked gorgeous walking down the aisle.

The groom felt nervous in the morning but relaxed after the ‘I dos’.

RACHAEL AND CHARLIE’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK

Venue, www.oakleyhall-park.com

| Photographer, www.hsphotography.co.uk |

Bride’s dress and veil, www.littlelondonbrides.co.uk Bride’s accessories, www.thebobbypin.co.uk | Hair and make-up, www.styledbysadie.co.uk | Bridesmaids and flowergirls’ dresses, www.wed2b.com | Groom’s suit, www.marcdarcy.co.uk | Cake, www.instagram.com/the.southern.dumpling | Flowers, www.heapyandhooper.co.uk | Stationery, www.instagram.com/littleweddinggems | Entertainment, www.moonrakerdisco.co.uk Wedding dress alterations, www.nortiershallow.com | Flower wall, sweet cart and love letters, www.facebook.com/eventextrashire Photobooth, Absolute Entertainment Hants 01256 324 858

Hand crafted flowers, wire work and jewellery incorporating Swarovski El ments, Semi Precious stones, beads and various cords.

For more information please contact Lucy White

Hand crafted flowers, wire work and jewellery incorporating Swarovski Elements, Semi Precious stones, beads and various cords.

Hand crafted flowers, wire work and jewellery incorporating Swarovski Elements, Semi Precious stones, beads and various

T: 07974 856 225

E: lucy@3cjewellery.co.uk

W: www.3cjewellery.co.uk

Hand crafted flowers, wire work and

For more information please contact Lucy White 07974 856 225

For more information please contact Lucy White

Facebook: 3 C Jewellery

T: 07974 856 225

E: lucy@3cjewellery.co.uk W: www.3cjewellery.co.uk3CJewellery

E: lucy@3cjewellery.co.uk

W: www.3cjewellery.co.uk

Facebook: 3 C Jewellery

Hand crafted flowers, wire work and jewellery incorporating Swarovski Elements, Semi Precious stones, beads and various cords.

Hand crafted flowers, wire work and jewellery incorporating Swarovski Elements, Semi Precious stones, beads and various cords.

For more information please contact Lucy White

For more information please contact Lucy White

For more information please contact Lucy White

T: 077974 856 225

T: 07974 856 225

E: lucy@3cjewellery.co.uk

T: 07974 856 225

E: lucy@3cjewellery.co.uk

W: www.3cjewellery.co.uk

E: lucy@3cjewellery.co.uk

W: www.3cjewellery.co.uk

Facebook: 3 C Jewellery

W: www.3cjewellery.co.uk

Facebook: 3 C Jewellery

Facebook: 3 C Jewellery

Be inspired by this modern shoot, which features a spring colour palette and luxurious styling Images courtesy of Yana Nova Photography

Surrounded by beautiful trees and gardens in south Hampshire, Wintershill Hall provided the perfect backdrop to this styled shoot. The environmentally sustainable estate, which promotes diverse wildlife schemes, allowed the team to create the perfect shoot to inspireShootnearlyweds.coordinator

Rowenna Ayling at Makeup by Rowenna wanted to create something different when it came to the colour scheme and took inspiration from spring – her favourite season. She says. “We combined colours to give a fresh, modern and minimalistic take on the golden-glam look. The golden elements created a classic look by using and embracing some untraditional wedding items such as the embroidered leather jackets and gold hairpiece.”

After creating a mood board that captured and expressed the essence of spring, Rowenna contacted likeminded and talented suppliers to bring her vision to life. She says, “We all shared our ideas and thoughts in the lead-up to the day, which I believe helped create and capture such beautiful results.”

The Mansion at Coldeast provided the perfect backdrop to this styled shoot

Images courtesy of Dom Brenton Photography

Situated between Southampton and Fareham, The Mansion at Coldeast is a new venue that provided the perfect location to this traditional English-styled shoot. A team of suppliers came together to showcase the stunning spaces to potential couples while showcasing their talentedInfluencedwork.by contemporary royalty, the shoot’s overall look is one of understated elegance. All the floral arrangements featured white blooms and green foliage, which was accompanied by crisp white table linen and wedding stationery handwritten by a professional calligrapher.

The venue provided a beautiful setting with plenty of natural lighting, which showcased the Mikado satin dress Duchy by British bridal couture designer Lyn Ashworth England.

The models posed with a cream Bentley Continental Flying Spur Limousine, which looked fantastic in

Located in the heart of Dorchester, the Dorset Museum gained a wedding license in September 2021, and has been hosting weddings ever since. To bring the iconic spaces to life, the wedding team and a group of suppliers got together to create this showstopping shoot.

Influenced by the Victorian Hall’s neoGothic architecture and the historic stories shared around the property, the shoot was kept minimal and classic to let the venue speak for

Talented suppliers came together to create this classic and elegant shoot at the Dorset Museum

Images courtesy of PhotosbyJim

Rhinefield

Old

DRESSED TO impress

Be inspired by the latest fashion trends and styles

Finding your dream wedding dress is an exciting experience that should be fun, enjoyable and memorable. Looking for inspiration online is a great way to find styles and features you like, but always keep an open mind when dress shopping. Here at YHDW HQ, we find that many brides go into their appointment with a dress in mind but come out this something completely different. To help inspire you, we’ve asked top boutiques from around the counties to showcase trending gowns that are sure to get heads turning.

STATEMENT SLEEVES

Dress: Samanta by Eva Lendel

Description: The best thing about this gown is the detachable sleeves, so you can remove them in the evening for a different look and to gain full movement of your arms when dancing the night away.

Available at: www.chameleonbride.co.uk

Dress: Sonia by Pronovias

Description: This stunning Mikado dress has statement sleeves and a modern leg slit that allows you to show off those shoes. The gown is a twist on the classic full A-line skirt with the drama of puff full-length sleeves, which can be removed for the dancefloor.

Available at: www.anyabridal.co.uk

Dress: Leona by Romantica of Devon

Description: This stunning and romantic wedding dress showcases a lace detailed coldshoulder sleeve with hand-beaded spaghetti straps, buttons and a zip back.

Available at: www.wedding-time.com

Dress: Mango

Description: This a cool boho fit-and-flare gown in a crepe fabric is stunning with Spanish lace sleeves and a low cut back. Design your own sleeve length with this gown, keep the drama or remove it completely!

Available at: www.bleubridalgowns.co.uk

Dress: Eloise by Ellis Bridals

Description: This stunning gown features on-trend blouson organza sleeves, stunning buttoned cuffs creating a statement silhouette, keyhole back and buttons down the train.

Available at: www.instagram.com/sarah_jane_bridal

DRAMATIC BACKS

Dress: Celestina by Sophia Tolli Australia

Description: Dreamy yet dramatic, this breathtaking crepe wedding dress is unlike no other with a combination of Chantilly lace and floral lace appliqués. Gorgeous double beaded spaghetti straps, lace artfully placed to contour every curve and a laser cut petal-shaped train really adds the wow factor.

Available at: www.instagram.com/sarah_jane_bridal

Dress: Piper by Victoria Jane

Description: This beautiful fit-and-flare dress features lace, a lace illusion train and a stunning open back framed with floral appliqués and beading to complete the feminine style.

Available at: www.anyabridal.co.uk

Dress: 7118 by Stella York

Description: This fit-and-flare wedding dress is sleek and sexy. The lace finishes off the look by creating scalloped edging along the train with classic covered buttons cascading down the back for a chic and modern style.

Available at: www.wedding-time.com

Dress: Bow

Description: This romantic strapless A-line gown is covered with pretty flower lace and features a delicate tulle bow designed back. Choose a large or small bow or none at all –whatever works with your vision.

Available at: www.bleubridalgowns.co.uk

Dress: Perla by Eva Lendel

Description: Dare to bare in this dramatically low back dress covered in on-trend pearls. Emphasise the low back by using tulle wings rather than a more traditional veil, which would cover this statement feature.

Available at: www.chameleonbride.co.uk

Dress: Sibylla by Elysee

Description: This gown features an on-trend square neckline with exposed bodice boning and a double sculpted caged train.

Available at: www.chameleonbride.co.uk

FABULOUS

Dress: 7548 by Stella York

Description: This luxurious ballgown’s beaded spaghetti straps and sweetheart neckline give a glamorous look. The beaded lace bodice sparkles with every sequin and is complemented by a full tulle skirt.

Available at: www.wedding-time.com

Dress: Indiana by Sophia Tolli Australia

Description: This off-the-shoulder mermaid style features a sweetheart bodice embellished with delicate sequinned lace appliqués. The silhouette is crafted from cascading layers of glitter and misty tulle continued to the back to create a train.

Available at: www.instagram.com/sarah_jane_bridal

Dress: Harper

Description: This ivory Mikado gown has the wow factor with fabulous detailing from the bodice to the end of the train. The cut away side panels and an illusion low lace back is perfect for a bride who wants to create an impact on her wedding day.

Available at: www.bleubridalgowns.co.uk

LOCAL BOUTIQUES

Chameleon | www.chameleonbride.co.uk Anya Bridal Couture| www.anyabridal.co.uk

Dress: 7479 by Stella York

Description: Sequins, beading and luxurious lace strike a stunning balance in this fit-and-flare silhouette. The plunging neckline and delicate spaghetti straps highlight the décolletage area, while the low back detail and fabric buttons flatter the figure.

Available at: www.anyabridal.co.uk

Sarah Jane Bridal | www.instagram.com/sarah_jane_bridal

Wedding Time | www.wedding-time.com Bleu Bridal Gowns Ltd | www.bleubridalgowns.co.uk

SAY IT WORDSWITH your best girls with

Shine bright like a diamond

These 14-carat white gold pavé hoop earrings, £404, are made with sustainably grown diamonds and form part of the recent collection from jewellers Vrai, https://uk.vrai.com

ALL DRESSED UP

Grace Loves Lace has recently unveiled the second part of their Amavi occasionwear collection featuring classic bias-cut slip dresses made from 95% recycled satin. The earthy colour palette consists of dusky pink and moss green styles, https://graceloveslace.co.uk

FASHION focus

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

NECK CANDY

Take a stride

Put your best bridal foot forward in these Leah sandals, £525, personalised with ‘Wifey for Lifey’ on the www.sophiawebster.comsole,

THANKS, MUM!

Thank the leading lady in your life with this Italian leather trinket box, £110, www noblemacmillan.com

Editor’s pick

LITTLE LOVLIES

Roco Clothing has just launched a new sustainable collection of dresses that includes a junior flowergirl and teen selection for those fashion-yet-planet-conscious teenagers. This Tinker Bell-style tulle dress, £49, features a semi-sheer pleated bodice and floaty layered cap sleeves, www.rococlothing.co.uk

UK-based online jewellery store Primrose Hill Jewellery has unveiled its wedding collection that includes an enchanting range of earrings, bracelets, necklaces and sets, like these little gems from www.primrosehilljewellery.com/wedding-jewelleryDiamonfire,

EDITOR LOVES

Eternal flame

The perfect pick for newlyweds, check out the L’Essenziale 18-carat gold bracelet that’s invisibly welded to the wrist (with no clasp) to form an eternal strand from jeweller Atelier VM at www.ateliervm.com/eu/enLiberty, to view video

This 14-carat rose gold Kensington bracelet features a ruby root, a symbol of good https://tateossian.comfortune,

Editor’s favourite

Touch up your wedding dress on the go with this cute pink handheld steamer, £120, https://steamery.co.uk

This handmade sterling silver spinner pendant necklace, £88, can be customised with a message on the front and back, the perfect gift for the morning of the wedding, www.wildfawnjewellery.com

HEAD turners

LOVELY LASHES

Let your eyes do the talking on your wedding day with the new range of seamless lashes from Eyelash Emporium. The perfect addition to that popular natural, soft glam bridal make-up look, the SEAMLash collection is designed to be applied underneath the natural lash line to create a bandless finish that lasts up to 24 hours.

Prices start from £12.95 and they’re available in two gorgeous designs: Winged & Wispy, and Full & Fluttery.

Check out www.eyelashemporium.com

BRIDE & TESTED

As you’ll know if you’ve been following her Bride’s Dairy features, our own CWM bride, Melissa Barker (now Cullen), tied the knot this summer. When her make-up artist advised at her trial that she begin a skincare regime and invest in a moisturiser, exfoliator and eye cream, we leapt into action to find the best products for her. Here, Melissa shares her skincare journey to W-day…

Glossybox Skincare Exfoliating Clay Scrub £13, www.glossybox.co.uk100ml,

I wasn’t really sure what to expect from this exfoliating scrub, but after just one use, my skin felt smoother and healthier. Unlike many other exfoliators I’ve tried, this wasn’t too harsh on my skin, but still did a great job of cleaning my pores. After six weeks of use, I still have over half of the 100ml bottle left, so it’s great value for money, and I’d recommend it to anyone.

Ameliorate Replenishing Facial £24,Cream75ml, www.ameliorate.com

I was a little apprehensive about trying this face cream, as more often than not, new products make my skin break out. I was pleasantly surprised that after just one use, my skin felt hydrated and smooth and best of all, it didn’t cause any unwanted reactions. I’ve been using this twice a day for six weeks, and I’ve definitely seen a smoother and softer result.

Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus + Eye £83, www.lookfantastic.com15ml,

This cream is designed to reduce the look of dark spots and smooth the appearance of lines, wrinkles and uneven texture underneath your eyes. I’m 27 and like to think I don’t have too many wrinkles yet, but I do have dark circles, so I was interested to see whether this cream would help. After six weeks of use, it had decreased the puffiness around my eyes and has made the dark circles less noticeable. It’s left my skin feeling soft and hydrated, and a little goes a long way.

BUZZBeauty

Beauty editor Kelly Andrews brings you the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be

JUST CHILL

When Patchology’s Rosé Sheet Masks landed on my desk in the middle of the summer heatwave I couldn’t wait to get home and chill. Literally that is, as the pack states “served chilled,” so I popped them in the fridge post haste. I’d been suffering with very dry skin, which had me in a panic about Melissa’s impending wedding day and how it would affect the look of my make-up – one more reason to take this mask out for a spin as it’s packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid. Even the pack adorned with champagne glasses looks wedding ready!

So, I smoothed one of these chilled sheets masks onto my hot and bothered face and settled myself on the patio with a glass of wine and a book. Let me tell you, after a scorching day, this was heaven. It calmed my angry skin right down, but not only that, the dry patches were much improved after massaging the remaining serum into my skin. In fact, my make-up artist wasn’t sure what I was worried about when I shared my dry skin woes on the big day, and my foundation went on a dream. Thanks Patchology! £28 for four masks, https://patchology.co.uk

THINK PINK

Premium Spanish spa brand Germaine de Capuccinni will be ditching the usual grey bottle of its hero product, Timexpert SRNS Repair Night Progress Serum, in favour of a pink version in honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.

The brand’s most technologically advanced booster serum for youthful, rejuvenated skin is packed with no less than 22 active ingredients. Having evolved over the years, its new formula includes an innovative ingredient that increases the power of absorption by eight, making the serum penetrate deeper for fast, effective results. At night, while your skin is more receptive, it repairs damage and re-activates cellular regeneration. During the day it protects skin against environmental factors and external aggressors. £127.50, https://germaine-de-capuccini.co.uk

RAISING THE BAR

Far from an ordinary bar of soap, le savon lune from silver-based brand ARgENTUM is an ingenious cleanser in solid form, making it perfect for popping into your suitcase as you head off on honeymoon.

Any water content in the product is replaced with the brand’s patented fusion of silver hydrosol and DNA HP, and targets blemishes while leaving skin clean, cushioned and visibly healthier. Great for men or women, the formulation is also enhanced by bentonite, a colloidal clay composed of aged volcanic ash, traditionally used for its healing effect. Combined with other winning ingredients, this ensures a purifying action without dehydrating or irritating your skin, keeping it in check without upsetting its natural balance. £80, www.argentumapothecary.com

SILKY SMOOTH

According to experts, keratosis pilaris or strawberry legs is something that’s present in 80 per cent of adolescents and 40 per cent of adults and is aggravated by heat and sun exposure. At last count #strawberrylegs peaked at 144.9 million views, but is still growing. Enter Luna Daily’s Everything Oil, this skincare saviour is clinically proven to visibly reduce ingrown hairs, scars, stretch marks, dark spots, redness and bumps for smooth, soft skin. Plus, this lightweight and deeply moisturising, multi-tasking oil is gentle enough to use anywhere on your body. £18, https://luna-daily.com

AU NATUREL

If you prefer to de-fuzz at home, check out Parissa’s 100 per cent natural cruelty-free and leaping-bunny-certified wax range. The products and their packaging are all made from sustainable, ethically-sourced, natural materials, so if you care as much about the environment as you do about what you put on your skin, give them a go. Say “no” to synthetic waxes!

There are a wide range of options available depending on your experience and hair type. I tried Parissa Legs & Body Warm Wax (£13). Just pop it in the microwave to warm it up and you’re off! Everything you need is included from spatulas to strips. I decided to wax one leg and shave the other for comparison. There’s a slight chance I over heated the product as my waxed leg was livid with me afterwards. However, the redness had all gone down by the morning and I was left with a silky-smooth result versus the shaved leg, which was dry and still a bit rough. The waxed leg was good to go beyond the spray tan too, so I didn’t need to risk any damage, and lasted past Melissa’s wedding and well into the following week before I needed to take further action. My advice would be to start with the wax strips if you’re not used to waxing at home or have sensitive skin, but I was super-pleased with the results.

Check out https://parissa.com

TIME TO SHINE

The days of using a wealth of products on your hair are over with TAOH, as the brand makes taking care of your locks a doddle with its line of key products with all-in-one solutions to help you achieve the glossiest, most luxe-looking and healthy tresses no matter the type or condition.

The Hydrate Shampoo (£17) and Conditioner (£18) are now a mainstay in my shower and are infused with organic plant oils that have breathed new life into my hair. By far my favourite product in the range though is the TAOH Oil (£20). Argan, macadamia and kukui oils help to restore the life and shine of locks, while promoting scalp health to encourage growth and vitality. It also prevents split ends, calms frizz and detangles. I used it after washing my hair the morning of Melissa’s wedding and received multiple compliments throughout the day about how shiny it

Checklooked!outhttps://taoh.co.uk

WEDDING-READY SKIN

We all know stress can play havoc with our skin and let’s face it, planning a wedding can be trying. Peace Out skincare has a range of solution-based products to ensure your complexion is picture-perfect on your big day.

It all starts with the prep and so it’s time to bring your A-game… vitamin A that is! Peace Out’s Retinol Face Stick (£28) and Retinol Eye Stick (£25) offer an encapsulated retinol blend that softens the look of wrinkles and texture without any of the harsh side effects. In addition, the fruit enzyme complex combines papaya and pumpkin to target pores and reveal brighter, smoother-looking skin. Start using three-months prior to the nuptials to ensure you’re wedding ready.

Check out www.cultbeauty.co.uk

THE mane EVENT

Nicole Petty, haircare expert for Milk + Blush, shares 2022’s most popular wedding hair trends and how to achieve them

▲ FLIPPY BOB

We often think of long hair being the height of romance, but shorter wedding hair is having a moment in 2022. Many have taken inspiration from Kourtney Kardashian's latest look and have adopted her flippy bob for their big days.

To get the look, use a hair mousse for plenty of volume. Then, with a round brush, blow dry the ends upwards to create the flick. Follow with the cool setting to help your locks stay in place and finish by spritzing with hairspray.

▲ MESSY BUN

Although, achieving the perfect messy bun can feel like an impossible task TikTok has the answer with a viral hack that’s seen more than six millionSectionviews…your hair into two ponytails and twist into rope braids. Next, tie the ends of the hair back into the pony to create two loops. Finally, thread one loop through the other to create the bun and secure in place with bobby pins. To elevate the look into the bridal realm, pull out some face-framing tendrils and loosely curl them for the ultimate romantic up do.

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▲ HOLLYWOOD WAVES

Nothing exudes glamour like Hollywood waves, a firm favourite among brides. Jennifer Lopez showed just how stunning the style can be at her recent wedding to Ben Affleck, styling her hair in loose curls, with the top layer pulled back into a subtle bouffant.

To recreate the look, use a oneinch curling iron to curl the tresses in layers from the bottom up, holding the curling iron horizontally and rolling the hair downwards as though you’re using rollers. Finish by gently combing through and positioning the hair to create continuous waves before holding the still-hot curling iron against where they dip and clip them in place to cool and set.

▲ HALF-UP, HALF-DOWN

Romantic, versatile and effortlessly elegant this has been one of the most popular styles for brides to wear this year.

Almost anyone can wear a half-up, half-down do, but for those with fine hair, consider investing in some extensions for more body. Focus on creating some height at the crown with some volumising spray and backcombing.

For clip-in hair extensions to boost your look, check out www.milkandblush.com

Melinda offers Free Consultations at her home based Makeover Studio in Hedge End or via zoom and travels within Hampshire to your venue on the day to help get you ready.

Melinda also offers select Beauty Treatments to help you prepare for the ‘big day’ and has a Wellbeing side to her business too, teaching ladies how to use essential oils for better sleep, emotional support and anxious feelings and many other issues.

Q&A Fashion and beauty

Look your big-day best with help from the professionals

We’reGLOW-UPhaving a garden-themed wedding, and I’d love to appear fresh-faced and dewy. How do I achieve this?

Dewy skin is created using a mixture of hydrating skincare and make-up products. It’s impossible to achieve that dewy look without prepping your skin first, so you’ll have to exfoliate regularly and remove all the dead skin cells to avoid dry patches and dull skin.

Since the dewy look is about having hydrated and supple skin, here are a few tips to follow...

❤ Make sure to moisturise and use a regular serum.

❤ Your foundation mixed with the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter is a must for that perfect glass-like glow!

❤ Apply cream blusher on the apples of your cheeks.

❤ Apply a highlighter in the areas that get kissed by the sun, including the forehead, cheekbones, nose, chin and Cupid’s bow.

❤ Lipstick and gloss should be lightly applied with one to two tones similar to your natural lip colour.

Caroline Swaffield  Amazing Face Bridal Makeup and Hair www.amazing-face.co.uk

ALL ABOUT THAT BASE

I find my make-up smudges during the day. How do I ensure it stays in place on my wedding day?

You can do a few things to help your make-up last throughout your special day while avoiding smudging, which is usually caused by not setting your foundation correctly or using the wrong skincare products.

Start with the correct moisturiser for your skin type. For those with oily skin, avoid any products with a lot of oil and opt for an oil mattifier. The next product that can help is a primer; apply this all over your face and use a separate eye primer if necessary.

Use a foundation that suits your skin type and the coverage you require. Then apply a small amount of translucent setting powder with a small brush around the eye area before switching to a bigger brush to set the rest of your face - this will stop your foundation from smudging or transferring.

Once you have applied the rest of your make-up, use a setting spray to seal the products in place to help everything last throughout the day. For extra help, apply setting spray after blending out your foundation as well.

Melinda Hollis | Makeovers by www.makeoversbymelinda.co.ukMelinda

FINDING THE ONE

I have a plus-size figure and am looking for my dream wedding dress. What styles would best suit my body shape?

Traditionally for plus-size figures, you would be guided to an A-line shape as this nips you in at the waist and skims over the hips – this is a great place to start, but don’t let your dress journey end there.

We have taken plus-size shopping to the next level by ensuring we have an extensive range of on-trend structured dresses in all styles to ensure your curves are embraced and look fantastic. Try on all styles from fitted dresses to the ballgown style and anything in-between. Your size should not determine what styles you’re restricted to; we have helped many plus-size brides rock their dream dresses. With guidance from experienced bridal stylists, you’ll quickly find the right style for you.

Do your homework on some bridal boutiques before visiting to ensure the shop oozes body positivity and has a large enough range of gowns in plus sizes to try on. Many shops only have a few token plus-size dresses, so consider travelling a bit further to find a shop with a large selection.

Michelle Savoy | Olivia George Bridal | www.olivia-george.co.uk

HOT TOPIC

Local experts offer stellar advice on wedding dilemmas

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

We’re having a relaxed and informal wedding and, as we’re both real foodies, we would love to wow our guests with a tasty menu. What do you suggest?

Even if you’re having a relaxed and informal wedding, you can still wow your guest with a tasty menu. For a relaxing start to the day, opt for canapés as a roving grazing starter and skip the traditional plated options – just make sure to have extra choices for guests. Mini-charcuterie cones are the way to go, just add olives plus bocconcini and you’re good to go!

Sharing-style food makes for a very relaxed main course. So,

something like a rump of lamb with a kale salsa verde complemented with bowls of vibrant salads on each table for all to share will always be a winner. Add a few dips and handmade bread – you can’t go wrong.

For the dessert, a selection of cute colourful mini pots means your guest can mix and match anything from a lemon posset to a lime and ginger cheesecake. Either set up a dessert station or place them on boards on the tables.

Sally Pickles | Vanilla Catering & Events https://vanillacatering.co.uk

SHOWSTOPPING PHOTOS

Many photographers offer an engagement shoot, but we’re camera shy and don’t know if it’s for us. What are the benefits?

If you’re camera shy, an engagement shoot is an absolute must! The shoot will allow you to work with your photographer in advance to understand how they work and what will happen on the day.

When you see the beautiful pictures captured at this stage of your story, you’ll relax knowing you’re in good hands and can enjoy the special day without a worry.

A shoot is also valuable to your photographer as they’ll learn your

habits, like blinking or freezing up when you see a camera. They’ll be able to adapt their work accordingly to ensure they capture you in the best way possible.

An engagement shoot encourages you to think about your dream photos and allows you to try some poses out. Some photos will work better than you expected, but others not so well. Knowing that beforehand means you can spend your time on the day creating a truly spectacular album that you’ll treasure forever!

Simon Blake | South Coast Pictures www.scpweddingphotography.co.uk Ltd

but I’m struggling with what to look for in jewellery. Have you got any ideas?

So much of your big day is single-use items, but there’s one thing you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life – your wedding ring.

For those who want to be conscious of their environmental impact, a ring made out of recycled gold and diamonds is the best way to enjoy a wedding band. At Jeremy France Jewellers, we can melt down your family gold in our on-site workshop and remodel it into your desired modern design. We can also set any family stones into the ring if you want that extra sparkle; this can be a lovely way to commemorate family heritage and remember loved ones who can’t be there on the day. If you don’t have family gold, we can supply the amount required from our pre-owned stock. We also work with British manufacturers who use a high percentage of refined recycled gold in their wedding bands if you prefer something new.

All these options can help to reduce your carbon footprint while ensuring you don’t compromise for your big day.  Harriet France | Jeremy France www.jeremyfrancejewellers.co.ukJewellers

A TOUCH OF CLASS

We’re considering booking a toastmaster, what should we expect from them on the day?  Weddings are such joyful occasions but can sometimes come with enormous pressure. Few couples can learn from experience, so there’s only one chance to get everything right. That’s where a toastmaster comes in the help relieve any pressure while being professional and ensuring everything goes to plan. With the gift of seeing potential problems before they arise, a toastmaster’s skill will prove invaluable at any wedding.  No one wants to answer questions about the timings or seating arrangements, so leave this to the supplier who will act as a point of contact between companies. There’s nothing more stressful than having to direct guests on the big day or obtaining theirToastmastersattention.  will make announcements when it’s time for wedding breakfasts, the speeches, cutting the cake and the first dance – no one will miss a thing.  Peter York Peter York www.facebook.com/Peter-York-Toastmaster-859614007478475Toastmaster

PLANNING SOS

What advice can you share when it comes to planning our wedding? Planning a dream wedding is exciting but can sometimes feel overwhelming. We have three key pieces of advice to help...

❤ Pick two or three parts of the day that mean the most to you as a couple and prioritise these things in your budget and planning; for example, this could be the catering, photography, entertainment, rings or the dress.

❤ Trust your wedding suppliers as the teams are experts in their field – remember you chose them for a reason.

❤ Always keep focused that your dream wedding day is the start of your marriage; never lose sight of that.

Catherine Lavin | Kingston Country Courtyard | www.kingstoncountrycourtyard.com76http://kimberleygarrod.co.uk

A THEME COME TRUE

We’re having a rustic-themed wedding in a gorgeous barn. Do you have any ideas of how we can style it?

A barn wedding venue is the perfect setting for an effortlessly romantic and rustic wedding. Living trees and other potted greenery can transform the space into something magical.

With the high ceilings, rustic wooden beams and lots of space to fill, we would add to the relaxed and rustic vibe by providing tall leafy trees reaching high into the ceiling. Silver birch, eucalyptus and olive trees work particularly well, especially when covered with twinkly fairylights to add that extra sparkle.

We suggest an evergreen star jasmine arch for the perfect backdrop to the vows and the luscious scented piece behind your top table. In full bloom from the end of June to early September, if the weather is kind to us, the stunning scent is so evocative and will remind you of your wedding day for years to come.

To finish the leafy look, mini olive and citrus trees plus leafy ferns work perfectly when used as tabletop décor or to add a spot of greenery to any area.

Debbie

MEET THE ENTERTAINERS

We’re thinking of booking our entertainment, but we’re a bit worried about booking someone online that we’ve never met. Do you have any suggestions?

Booking someone online seems to be getting more popular, but it’s important to think back to how we used to book suppliers and services. We most likely met and spoke to the team, experienced their services and trusted them before hiring the company.

The difference now is we can do most of this without meeting the supplier face to face, but it’s important to do your research and a phone or zoom call is a must. Find out why they’re the best, what makes them stand out and what others say about them. One of the best ways of engaging suppliers is going to wedding fayres to meet the teams in person and get recommendations.

Another top tip is to ensure that suppliers are active on social media. There might be a reason if they haven’t posted in months, most likely nobody is booking them.

CAPTURING MEMORIES

Our big day is fast approaching and we’re thinking of booking a videographer, but we’re not sure what to look for. Do you have any tips?

A wedding videographer will be your closest ally in making those memories as special as the wedding itself. They’ll know how to capture all the beauty and the happiness of the day in their videos.

We live in a world where video creation seems as easy as pulling out your phone and pressing the red button. The pandemic put a lot of people in the position of reconsidering their career paths. Many thought photography and videography would be easy to pocket some dosh fast. Some of them genuinely discovered their real talent, but more had to fake it or turn it into a scam.

Contact professionals on well-established marketplaces or trade magazines such as this one. Once you find something you like, search the internet for more information about the company. A well-designed website is the first place to go. Check samples of the team’s work and their credentials on social media.

Remember that good quality videography does not come cheap; it usually entails expensive cameras and filming gear like extra lighting, a mobile sound recording unit and sometimes a drone handled by a CAAcertified drone pilot.

Don’t just quantify their work by the number of hours spent on-site by the team once the filming is done. They’ll spend hours reviewing footage on all the cameras, re-watching the footage, selecting the most suitable clips and putting everything together. They’ll make adjustments, enhance the colours scene by scene and synchronise music before the video is finally ready to be rendered.

Julie

Dan Profir | Another Amazing Wedding Video

The A team

BThe ultimate A to Z guide to hen and stag dos

AIS FOR AFTERNOON TEA

Feel like royalty and indulge on a classic afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, cakes and plenty of tea.

IS FOR ESCAPE ROOM

An escape room is a perfect option for those who love solving mysteries. Put your brain to the test with this thrilling activity to solve puzzles and beat the clock – it’s ideal for all ages.

IS FOR BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH

Celebrate in style with endless drinks plus some tasty food while catching up with your nearest and dearest.

CIS FOR CRAFTS

My Scented Home is a Dorset business that creates handmade home décor and gifts from dried flowers and fruit. Why not create some items for your wedding at the company’s beautiful Corfe Castle workshop and have lunch or afternoon tea as well? Create wreaths, garlands, floral crowns or bouquets to match any colour scheme and budget.

Check out: www.myscentedhome.co.uk/dried-flower-workshops

DIS FOR DANCING

For those searching for a super fun activity, why not participate in a dance class with All Steps First Dance? You can learn a fun routine to your favourite song or artist in any location, such as the hotel where you’re staying or a local studio which the team can organise. There are no limits on numbers and the company charges per group rather than per person, so it’s a cost-effective activity! Popular dance themes are Spice Girls, Beyoncé, Backstreet Boys and Britney Spears.

Check out: www.allstepsfirstdance.co.uk

IS FOR FRIENDLY COMPETITION

No matter what you pick to do on your hen or stag do, add some extra fun with some friendly competition. Why not play bridal bingo, Mr & Mrs quiz, how well you know the bride/groom and more.

IIS FOR IDEAS

When planning the perfect hen or stag do, search for inspiration on social media and online.

There are so many options out there and the process can be overwhelming, but these platforms are great tools to help find all types of ideas.

KIS FOR KARAOKE

Sing your heart out and make everlasting memories with friends and family with a good old karaoke session. With guaranteed laughs, sing your favourite tunes and party the night away.

IS FOR GOLF Ready for a challenge?andphysicalmental

Go for a round of golf and swing into action –pun intended.

HIS FOR HANGOVER KIT

If you’ve planned an evening of drinking, why not provide your loved ones with fun hangover kits? Include paracetamol, water, mints, make-up wipes, plasters, hairbands and lip balm –they'll thank you later!

JIS FOR JEWELLERY MAKING

Why not create something extra special that you can treasure for years? Jewellery making is an excellent activity if you love being creative and is a fun way to break the ice between guests. Learn new techniques, test your skills and let your imagination run

LIS FOR LASER SHOOTING

Get ready to go into battle with laser shooting, a fun experience that’s great for large groups. For those feeling extra brave, why not opt for paintballing?

NIS FOR NAILS

Before the special day, get all your best girls together to get your nails done. This fun activity will not only be a lovely memory but will ensure your hands and feet look their best for the big day.

IS FOR PAMPER PARTIES

IS FOR MURDER MYSTERY

MTuck into a delicious meal while trying to solve a murder mystery. Expect a fun-packed night with live actors, props and drinks – have you got what it takes to solve the mystery?

If you’re looking for a relaxing experience to kick start or wind down your hen do, check out Christiana's Hair and Beauty Limited. The company offers the ultimate pampering party, which starts with a complimentary facial session where each guest will receive a skin analysis. The team will then guide guests through a self-applied full facial with products specific to each person’s skin type using luxury spa products. These sessions are recommended for four to 10 guests. For £15 per person, guests will also receive a mini massage treatment, which can be upgraded at an extra cost.

The fully mobile company can come to your home or travel to any location such as a glamping site, holiday home or hotel. Check out: www.christianas.co.uk

Owild.

IS FOR ORGANISED

When planning a hen or stag do, make sure to be organised before the day to relax and fully enjoy the experience. Have you thought about transport, planned your outfit, arranged who’s bringing what and the timings on the day?

QIS FOR QUAD BIKES

For all the thrill seekers, get ready to indulge in some quad biking for a real taste of adventure. Test your skills and see who will come out on top.

Bridal Designers

Essence of Australia - Madi Lane - Enzoani Blue - Maggie Sottero - Eva Lendel - Morilee Chameleon Bride: 904 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth BH7 6DL

Mother of the Brude

Designers: Veni Infantino - John Charles - Fely Campo - Irresistible - Condici Chameleon Mother of the Bride: 908 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth BH7 6DL

RIS FOR RETREAT

Why not book a weekend yoga retreat with your nearest and withbecomingyourwhileyourmemoriestimeTakedearest?sometomakewithlovedonesclearingmindandoneyourbody.

UIS FOR UP AND AWAY

For those looking to tick something off their bucket list, why not go on an adventure in a hot air balloon and discover sunning views?

TIS FOR T-SHIRTS

For you and the tribe, why not wear totreasurefunnywillt-shirts?matchingEveryonethenhaveamemorytoforyearscome.

IS FOR YACHT

YBring your family and friends together with Raggy&Boo’s Solent Yachting Weekend. Up to seven people can spend two nights on a Bavaria 38 Sailing boat with a private skipper, a luxury food hamper, use of shower facilities in the marinas and more.

The first night will be in the harbour at Lymington so you can enjoy the pubs, bars and restaurants of the buzzing Georgian town. The following day your skipper will take you on your next adventure. Why not drop anchor for a swim in the ocean, some fishing or a private picnic on a secluded beach – the choice is yours. Next, you’ll moor in Cowes marina, where you can freshen up and enjoy your night in the town. On the second morning, you will sail back towards Lymington to complete your adventure.

Check out: www.raggyandboo.com

IS FOR SPA

SLet’s face it, planning a wedding can be a stressful task. So, take some time to switch off from the world and visit a spa for the ultimate relaxation session. Why not enjoy some treatments as well?

VIS FOR VEIL

For brides-to-be, wear a fun veil and sash on the day to celebrate in

IS FOR WINE TASTING

Some couples worry about mixing family and friends, so break the ice with a wine-tasting experience. This popular activity is an excellent way for people to try different wines and expand their knowledge about different flavours, smells and how it’s made.

XIS FOR X MARKS THE SPOT

Who’s ready for some competition? Create some fun riddles, clues and codes before sending your party on a treasure or scavenger hunt.

IS FOR ZOOM

If gonotracing,guests'dayunforgettablefast,arecouplesafterathrilling,thatwillgetheartwhytrysomekarting?

Our happily ever after

County Wedding Magazines’ senior editor Melissa Cullen shares her wedding planning journey Images courtesy of www.chrisblackledgephotography.co.uk

My husband (it still feels weird saying that) and I were engaged for 18 months before we finally tied the knot. Planning our wedding during a global pandemic wasn’t something I ever imagined happening, but thankfully, despite the ups and downs, we managed to have our

special day. I know it’s cliché to say, but we really did have the perfect day, and we wouldn’t have changed a thing. Now that I’m finally Mrs Cullen, I thought I’d take the time to share with you some tips that I learnt from planning our big day...

We chose a rustic property that looked gorgeous all year round. Ourwedding coordinator, Eloise, took care of all the details and madesure everything ran seamlessly. We arranged a last minute meetingwith her to run through the plan for the day, which we found was agreat help and meant we knew exactly what to expect. I recommendbooking a venue with a dedicated wedding coordinator or hiring anexternal company, so that you can relax and enjoy yourself withouthaving to worry.

Flowers can transform any venue into a beautiful space, so choosing the perfect florist was really important to us. If like me, you’re awful with flower names, I’d suggest going for a ready-made package. I told our florist what I liked and left the rest to her - a decision that saved me hours of stress! One thing I didn’t consider was just how many flowers we would need to take home the next day. We gave our friends and family some of the centrepieces as gifts, which they loved, and it meant we didn’t have to take them all home with us - win, win!

I didn’t anticipate how I would feel after purchasing my dress. I felt so much pressure to have this overcome-with-emotion moment when wearing it, that I started to question if I’d made the right decision. My poor bridesmaids had to deal with so many meltdowns about it, but now that the day has been and gone, I can say that the dress was perfect for me. If you start to panic that you’ve made the wrong choice, think about how you felt when you first tried it on and cling to that feeling. I had several photos of myself in the dress that I would obsess over and criticise, and if I could go back in time, I would delete those photos so I wouldn’t waste time worrying. On the day, with your hair and make-up done, you’ll feel amazing, and all those doubts will drift away. Go with your gut, don’t panic about how you should be feeling or what you should be wearing, and do what makes you happy!

Dave and I met our andamazingfriend’swhilephotographerhewasworkingatawedding.Hehasanstylethatwebothloved,wefoundhimreallyeasytobearound.Oneofthebestthingswedidintherun-uptotheweddingwasbookapre-weddingshoot.Wewerebothquitenervousinfrontofthecamera,andthisputusateaseandmeantthatwhenwegottothebigday,webothfeltrelaxedhavingourpicturetaken.

As some of you may remember, make-up is not my forte, and I’m embarrassed to tell you that I can’t tell the difference between highlighter, foundation and concealer! I booked a trial with my hair and make-up artist a few weeks before the wedding. If you’re worried about how you’ll look on the day or want to try different styles, I would definitely recommend doing this. I’m so glad I did, and it meant that I felt relaxed knowing that my suppliers had everything under control on the day.

One thing that we learnt after the wedding is that everyone loves cake! We purchased 50 cake boxes as we’ve both been to weddings where it gets left at the end of the night, so we thought that would be more than enough. However, those 50 went within an hour, and we had guests asking for additional pieces, so I would definitely provide more boxes than you need.

Surround yourself with people that you trust and love. My bridesmaids were amazing in the run-up to the wedding and on the day itself. They spoiled me with two hen dos, which were fabulous, a wedding-themed advent calendar full of fun and thoughtful gifts and endless support and love throughout the planning process. Trust me when I say that you will feel calmer on the wedding morning if you’re surrounded by your best friends. They made sure I looked and felt perfect, and I don’t think I could have done it without them.

Dave and I knew we wanted a band for our evening reception thatwould get everyone up and dancing. We booked an amazing trio wholearnt our first dance song and incorporated some of our favouritetunes into their set list. We were a bit worried that people would getbored or restless throughout the day, but all of our guests were quitecontent chatting during the drinks reception, and I’m quite glad wekept things scaled back as it allowed us to catch up with friends andfamily who we hadn’t seen in a long time due to the pandemic.

Our ceremony was performed by a registrar, who we didn’t meet untilthe morning of the wedding. Originally, this made me feel anxious butthe whole process went smoothly, and the ladies conducting our servicewere calming and reassuring. We incorporated promises to each otherin our vows that we felt represented us as a couple. For those of youabout to tie the knot, try and forget about all of the small things, asthere’s nothing more special than looking into your partner’s eyes andtelling them how much you love them in front of your loved ones.

Talk to your friends and family and see if they’d like to have an active role in your day. Our mums were really pleased that we asked them to be our witnesses, and it was a lovely way of including them in the ceremony. My beloved bridesmaid, Kelly, also sang a song accompanied by Dave on the guitar during the wedding breakfast. It was really touching and one of my favourite moments from the day.

Weddings from only £4,999

Sandford Springs is located in the beautiful Hampshire countryside between Newbury & Basingstoke, offering the perfect setting for your wedding day. The scene is set from the moment you drive down the tree lined driveway to the magnificent clubhouse.

With its elegant interior and landscaped grounds, it provides a winning combination and a romantic setting for a memorable occasion.

T. 01635 296800 | E. info@sandfordsprings.co.uk

Sandford Springs Hotel & Golf Club Kingsclere, Hampshire

Kilian Hennessy, the founder of luxury company Kilian, has been developing his own cologne for years. The result, Kologne, Shield of Protection, is a new scent that’s perfect for the groom-to-be.

Kologne, Shield of Protection is a splash of freshness, made with luminous citrus notes, green mandarin, bitter orange, mint, rosemary, neroli, cedarwood, cashmere and an accord of green vegetal notes.

To find out more, visit www.bykilian.co.uk

AVI-8 Watches have introduced the new Hawker Hurricane Clowes Automatic. Inspired by the RAF’s No. 1 Squadron and the courageous Arthur “Tay” Clowes, The Hawker Hurricane Clowes Automatic has been designed as a commanding and pronounced watch to honour their incredible accomplishments during WWII.

As a tribute to Clowes and the Squadron he flew for, his aircraft code is stamped into the piece along with a second hand counter-balance created in the form of the Hawker Hurricane.

Available to buy from www.avi-8.co.uk

Rotary Watches has launched

The Henley Timepiece Collection. Powerfully built in stainless steel and sapphire glass, each timepiece is water resistant up to 100m and contains a Miyota quartz-powered chronograph movement and date function.

This new season of Henley products also includes a trio of stylish ladies timepieces. Like their men’s counterparts, each of these watches is made with stainless steel and sapphire glass, as well as a luminescent hand for optimalDiscoverreading.more about the collection at www.rotarywatches.com

Grooms editor Melissa Cullen reveals the latest best buys and product launches Grooms’

British independent designer, The Camden Watch Company has announced its move into jewellery. The new Memento Mori 925 sterling silver unisex ring is adorned with the company’s Memento Mori design.

Memento Mori translates as: ‘Remember you must die’, a recurring theme in Victorian jewellery and art. Contrary to how that may sound, Memento Moris was intended as a celebration of life, to remind us that life is short and every second counts.

Anneke Short, designer and co-founder of The Camden Watch Company, said: “While watch design has always been a passion, I originally studied jewellery making and decided it was time to pursue this. While I love all the products we make, the Memento Mori seemed most natural, especially with its link to the Victorian era who had a fascination with collecting Memento Mori keepsakes.”

Head over to www.camdenwatchcompany.com to find out more.

Mr Porter sells must-have luxury fashion from more than 500 of the world’s most sought-after brands. The company are on a mission to provide men with everything they need to look and feel their best.

To help, Danish brand James Ay is now being stocked by Mr Porter. The company is an ode to the modern inventor of sunglasses, James Ayscough. In a vein similarly daring to the pioneer, its biodegradable frames are fully plantbased - made from Mazzucchelli M49 acetate – and range from edgy to classicCheckdesigns.outwww.mrporter.com for more information.

Wintershill is a charming Victorian Hall situated in the heart of the Hampshire countryside. With a variety of locations within the gardens and grounds to choose from for dry hire, our family run venue can provide the perfect spot for any event.

Having Southampton airport and train station, as well as Winchester train station, all within a 20 minute drive makes it an easily accessible venue for the south east as well as the rest of the UK. Please do get in touch to discuss your event and we hope to welcome you very soon.

WIN A MINIMOON IN THE ALGARVE WORTH £1,000

Celebrating its 50 year anniversary throughout 2022, the Algarve’s Quinta do Lago Resort has been providing, since its inception, topof-the-range residential offerings, world-class sport, wellness and lifestyle facilities and five-star cuisine, all whilst maintaining a virtually untouched region of natural beauty.

The resort’s founder, Andre Jordan had a vision to create a destination inspired by nature, reflected in the resort’s ample natural spaces and green areas. From Jordan’s first impression of the landscape to its worldrenowned status today, the success of Quinta do Lago is found in its simplicity and unwavering vision of excellence.

Having been at the forefront of international golf, hosting eight Portuguese Opens as well as numerous other international tournaments, its home to three world-class golf courses and boasts a wealth of cuttingedge practice facilities.

As well as improving sustainability on its championship courses, Quinta do Lago is adopting an enhanced approach to conservation across other business sectors of the resort including at its world-class sports hub The Campus, The Magnolia Hotel, its 13 bars and restaurants and general resort services. The resort created its own farm last year, Q Farm, to provide its restaurants with homegrown organic produce and has now announced a series of further measures to help foster nature, including organising and participating in beach clean ups, placing information boards on the golf courses and nearby nature trails advising people of the wildlife living nearby and supporting the local community to learn about sustainable choices.

The aforementioned The Magnolia Hotel is a truly unique boutique hotel bringing a taste of Palm Springs to the Algarve. Offering an unbeatable location just moments away from Quinta do Lago, it provides an idyllic base to sample world class golf, shopping, beach, nightlife and

the new elite sports performance centre, The Campus.

Playing host to 74 rooms, three suites and seven one-of-a-kind cottages The Magnolia Hotel boasts a heated outdoor pool, colourful in-house restaurant, cinema, gymnasium and spa – what more could you desire for the perfect post-wedding Mediterranean getaway!

FOR MORE INFORMATION Quinta do Lago, call + 351 289 390 700 or visit: Thewww.quintadolago.comMagnoliaHotel,call +351 289 005 300 or visit www.themagnoliahotelqdl.com

THE PRIZE

Quinta do Lago is offering two nights at the beautiful  The Magnolia Hotel on a B&B basis, including a dinner at Casa do Lago,  the elegant restaurant boasts fresh fish, seafood and seasonal ingredients to make tasty dishes, all with a lovely lakeside view. The resort is also offering an experience at The Campus, the resorts elite performance facility with activities such as, tennis, padel, gym classes and a lovely spa facilities to relax in after a day of activities.

HOW TO ENTER

For your chance to win, answer the following question:

Q: What is the name of the resort’s elite sports performance centre?

Head over to our website www.yourhampshiredorset.wedding to enter. Closing date is 9th December, 2022. T&Cs apply. Good luck!

HONEYMOONNews

HotelITALYdeLen

opened at the end of 2021 after a total renovation of the former Hotel Impero, located in the centre of Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. The sustainble project was designed by the Gris+Dainese studio in Venice and offers a contemporary experience.

Open year-round, the property has 22 rooms, a spa on the top floor overlooking the mountains and valley, as well as a restaurant and a bar.

During the warmer seasons, Cortina d’Ampezzo offers more than 850 climbing routes for hiking and trekking, as well as restaurants and mountain refuges. Cortina is also famous for its via ferratas, equipped with metal cables, walkways, suspension bridges and stairs. Additionally, there are 16 routes for mountain bike enthusiasts, numerous options for E-bikes and 700km of cycle paths for road bikes that take you through breathtaking landscapes. To find out more, visit

Villas are only a few minutes drive from the island’s capital town and port. Part of a fourvilla complex, each villa can be rented out separately with up to four guests each or as a whole to accommodate large groups of family and friends with a shared swimming pool and outdoor living areas.

Each villa is a three-storey home thoughtfully designed to offer a comfortable stay featuring open-plan spaces and large floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping views of the Pigadia Bay. The main floor features a cosy living room overlooking the surrounding gardens and sea, and the mezzanine level includes an en suite king-size bedroom and a separate bathtub. A fully-equipped kitchen and dining area as well as an en suite double bedroom can be found on the lower level.

Karpathos is a remote paradis with picturesque landscapes perfect for rock climbing, hiking, biking, scuba diving and windsurfing. Find out more at www.thegreekvillas.com

RHODES, GREECE

Located on the Medieval Greek island of Rhodes and surrounded by endless views of the Aegean Coast stands The Ixian Grand & All Suites. This season, the property invites couples to enjoy all-inclusive spa and wellness experiences in collaboration with the award-winning wellness brand, Aegeo Spa. Those looking for ultimate relaxation can book a Cretan couple’s massage in a private and secluded room with warm essential oils. The retreat also offers revitalising treatments such as an 80-minute full body massage, mini facials, bronzing therapies and body masks.

The Ixian Grand & All Suites is home to six stylish restaurants and bars and 348 beautiful rooms decorated in calming neutral shades, exuding sophistication and elegance. Each space has been designed with ultimate rest and relaxation in mind. Deluxe Rooms are available with spa tubs and views of the sea and gardens, while the Grand Suites are accompanied by private or shared pools with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea.

To book, visit www.theixiangrand.gr

Travel editor Melissa Cullen reveals new openings and honeymoon essentials

QuintaPORTUGALdoLagoiscelebrating its 50th birthday. During that time, it has provided top-of-therange residential offerings, world-class sport, wellness and lifestyle facilities and five-star cuisine, all whilst maintaining a virtually untouched region of natural beauty.

As well as improving sustainability on its three 18-hole championship courses, Quinta do Lago is adopting an enhanced approach to conservation across the resort, including its world-class sports hub, The Magnolia Hotel, its 13 bars and restaurants and general resort

Seanservices.Moriarty, the CEO of Quinta do Lago, comments: “The history of Quinta do Lago lives on in every corner of the resort today; a legacy of lifestyle firmly rooted in health, family and connection to nature. As an award-winning, world-renowned destination for luxury lifestyle, we are proud to be a place of constant inspiration, where the quality of life is measured by outdoor lifestyle and treasured family moments, and with a commitment to nature, our sustainable approach protects the environment and secures the future for generations to come.”

The resort will be celebrating its 50th birthday with a variety of events over the comingDiscovermonths.more at www.quintadolago.com

TheTURKEYStayBoulevard

Nisantasi, Istanbul’s hottest new hotel for 2022, is now open for bookings. This beautifully-designed 82-room property in the heart of the city’s refined fashion and cultural district joins The Stay’s established collection of luxurious properties.

In keeping with the rest of the collection, The Stay Boulevard Nisantasi offers guests a blend of heritage, arts, culture and stellar design. Acclaimed Turkish architect Mahmut Anlar has created a hip hideaway with rooms and suites with walk-in closets, grand marble bathrooms and kitchenettes. Many of them connect for extended stays or large groups, and The Stay Boulevard Suite includes a terrace perfect for sipping drinks as the sun sets.

After a day visiting the historical sights and contemporary museums, guests will love retreating to the spa and wellness floor for a dip in the indoor pool, a Pilates session or an authentic Turkish hammam.

The location boasts designer boutiques from Louis Vuitton to Chanel, and Hermes, as well as local designers such as Begum Khan.

Head over to www.thestay.com.tr for more information.

ST. WindjammerLUCIALanding

Villa Beach Resort, St Lucia, has announced a new wellness program. Known for its Mediterranean-style offerings, Windjammer Landing boasts guest rooms and villas with waterfront views overlooking Labrolette Bay and the Caribbean Sea. The wellness program includes Hummingbird Yoga, Detox, Immunity and Weight Loss Retreats, Complete Serenity Packages and Sunset Beach

“SincePicnics.thestart of the pandemic, our guests have become more health-conscious and wellness-oriented, which has inspired us to reflect on how we deliver a meaningful practice,” said Alex Danila, the director of spa and wellness. “We’re using our idyllic setup to inspire travellers from all around the world to practice meaningful wellness through these programs, so they’ll leave our slice of heaven feeling fully rejuvenated.”

Visit www.windjammer-landing.com for more information.

VirginSWITZERLANDLimitedEditionhascreated

the perfect getaway for those wanting a summer holiday in the mountains. The Lodge, Sir Richard Branson’s famed mountain retreat, is situated in the heart of Verbier, just five-minutes from the village centre. Comprising of nine bedrooms and suites, sleeping up to 18 adults, The Lodge boasts a traditionally-made bunkroom, equipped with a TV, PlayStation, and beanbags, making it the ideal bedroom and hangout for up to six children.

Guests can spend their days hiking and biking through the mountains, discovering more of the local area, or putting their feet up with a good book by the pool. Verbier has something for everyone, including cable cars that reach the summit of Mont Fort, stunning golf ranges, family horse treks, boutiques and designer shops.

Check out www.virginlimitededition.com/en/the-lodge for more information.

The ultimate

Olivia Gibson discovers why Dubrovnik is the perfect honeymoon destination

After what felt like an eternity of not being able to travel due to restrictions, I was so excited to visit the Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel – especially after seeing images of the stunning property online. For the first time in three years, I packed my bags and headed to theDubrovnikairport!

is a wonderful place to visit, evident even from thousands of feet up in the air. The crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches and picturesque landscapes create the perfect backdrop for honeymoons –no wonder it’s known as the Pearl of the Adriatic. After a short flight, we touched down and the real adventure began!

THE PERFECT SETTING

With a beachfront location and a showstopping backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, the five-star hotel offers some of the best views in Dubrovnik. From the moment I arrived, the staff were so welcoming and accommodating –nothing was too much trouble.

With 292 luxurious rooms, I couldn’t wait to see where I would spend the next few nights and wasn’t disappointed when I entered the spacious deluxe double room. The air-conditioned space featured double sinks, a waterfall shower, bath, seating area and a queen-sized bed. My favourite part of the room was the balcony, where I spent most of my time soaking up the sun on the loungers.

The hotel has everything needed for memorable holidays from restaurants, bars, pools, a spa area and a gym – there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The well-maintained facilities were excellent, and I especially loved the outdoor pool area surrounded by sun loungers – the perfect location to relax your senses.

The beach was located only a few meters from the property and was a wonderful place to relax. With a peaceful atmosphere, crystal-clear waters and the sound of crashing waves, what better location to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life?

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD

As a massive food lover, I couldn’t wait to try some local delicacies. The hotel is home to three restaurants; each offering something different to cater for all tastes.

When we first arrived at the hotel, we had a welcoming meal in the Momenti Restaurant. Here I enjoyed a prawn and beetroot starter, sea bass with potatoes and asparagus for main and a tasty chocolate cake

for dessert. The food was divine, especially the fluffy and dreamy potatoes!

Each morning I was greeted with a delicious sea of food, from cereals, pastries, granola and fresh fruit to a selection of hot food, including sausages, omelettes, bacon and hash browns. The buffet restaurant was superb, with a laid-back atmosphere and a variety of food on offer. Every night the chefs used fresh ingredients to create a fantastic selection of Mediterranean and international specialities that even the fussiest eaters would enjoy. A highlight of my trip was sitting outside on the terrace during dinner, it had a romantic atmosphere and was the perfect location to watch the sun set. For those chilly evenings, guests can sit indoors while enjoying the stunning views thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. One of my favourite meals from the restaurant was a spaghetti dish - the flavours were unbelievable and I wish I knew the recipe!

For more of a relaxed meal, the Miramare is a beachfront restaurant that offers panoramic views and a wide range of food. It was here where I enjoyed a chicken BLT, the best sandwich I’d ever eaten, and sipped on someWecocktails. hadafarewell

meal at the Momenti Restaurant on our last night at the hotel’s sister property – Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel. After a short walk, we arrived at the sophisticated space and enjoyed a goose liver pâté with puff pastry pears, followed by scallops and a hazelnut and chocolate cake to finish. Croatia is well known for its wine, so of course I had to try a few glasses.  destination

I couldn’t fault the service, the staff were always very attentive, friendly and professional. My glass was never empty, and I felt thoroughly looked after.

TIME TO EXPLORE

What better way to explore Dubrovnik than on an electric tuktuk? The tour started at the portside market in Gruz Harbour where we got a chance to see the local area and fishermen. We had so much fun whizzing around the streets and enjoying the incredible views, especially from the Franjo Tuđman Bridge. I loved visiting the top of Srđ Mountain and seeing the beautiful islands off the coast. The guides were excellent and they shared so much history and knowledge.

The hotel is only a few minutes from the charming Old Town, which is enclosed by Medieval walls, and is a must-visit destination. Game of Thrones fans would recognise the spaces from the much-loved show as the town was a filming destination for some very iconic scenes.

In the Old Town you’ll find cobbled streets, bars, shops and restaurants, alongside many awe-inspiring historical features and architecture. The town has survived chronicled events, such as the 17th-century earthquake and The Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s.

REST AND RELAX

Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel is home to the Balance Mediterranean Spa by Valamar. Here we truly indulged in the facilities and treatment menu. I had a 35-minute de-stress massage which I was nervous about at first, as I’d never had a massage before, but the team were fantastic and put my mind at ease. My body felt amazing and I will be getting another one soon! I walked out of the room completely at peace and headed straight to the waterbeds in the relaxation room. There are many other treatments guests can book too including facials, pedicures, manicures, body treatments and more.

The facilities in the spa were great with a steam room and saunas, indoor pool and, for ladies-only, The Afrodita Spa.

Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel is perfect for those on a budget who still want to enjoy pure luxury. This four-spa hotel has many stylish rooms, a refurbished lobby and pool area.

FUN IN THE SUN

I highly recommend visiting the Coral Beach Club Dubrovnik for those staying in either hotel. With beach activities, excellent dining, entertainment, bars and spa elements, this popular space is not one to miss! The food here was fantastic and it’s the ideal space to spend a few hours relaxing with a cocktail in hand.

THE FINAL VERDICT

I couldn’t fault my stay at the Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel. If you’re searching for the perfect honeymoon destination, look no further. The hotel provides the most romantic setting to relax and enjoy quality time with loved ones.

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FROM MADRIDWith love

Editor Claire Ridley spent Easter in Spain’s vibrant capital city

From the moment I arrived in Madrid, a two-and-a-half hour flight from London, I was greeted by a myriad of narrow streets and large squares filled with landmarks to fill my Insta feed at every turn, from the iconic Royal Palace of Madrid and Plaza Mayor to the eclectic mix of boutiques, tapas restaurants and bars. This extended bank holiday is a great time to visit when the weather has warmed up (average temperature 67 degrees) but the heat of the summer hasn’t yet descended on the city.

A WARM WELCOME

Nestled in the heart of this largest city in Spain, tucked away on Calle de Echegaray, sits the five-star Gran Hotel Inglés, Madrid’s oldest hotel having opened its doors for the first time in 1886. Located a 25-minute drive from the airport, I was excited to visit this boutique property, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, that oozes the glamour of bygone times from the moment you step into the decadent 1920s-inspired lobby with its feature bar, mirrored walls and Art Deco touches.

into a delicious menu of pastries, cold meats and cheese, eggs benedict and a selection of miniature desserts washed down with a Cosmopolitan cocktail, all while enjoying live music from talented singer, songwriter and guitarist Gigi (www.instagram.com/gigimcfarlane).McFarlane

with a choice of L’Occitane bath products. A highlight was the balcony providing outside space in the city –stepping on to it and admiring the view, I felt like I was in a movie.

DINE IN STYLE

Restaurant Casa Lobo in the hotel is well-known on the Madrid dining scene, with its open-plan kitchen serving traditional dishes. A highlight for me was the Show Brunch, priced at 45 euros per person and served every Sunday in the lobby, where I tucked

TAKE A DIP

A fun way of giving my body a little TLC after a day spent sightseeing was a visit to the dedicated spa facility and wellness area where I reserved the jacuzzi and had exclusive use of the entire spa. Tempting treatments on the extensive spa menu that uses Sisley products include an aromatic Californian massage.

WHAT TO SEE

A visit to the tourist hotspot Sol-Gran Via is a must, where adjoining streets blend culture and history with theatres, restaurants and shops. El Retiro Park provides a green oasis in the heart of the city, the perfect spot for a picnic with its pretty Rosaleda Rose Garden and a large artificial lake where rowing boats can be rented.

DO NOT DISTURB

The hotel boasts 48 luxurious rooms and suites, from the spacious Deluxe and Grand Deluxe Rooms to the Echegaray Suite (bearing the same name as the street outside) which was my home-from-home for three nights. This stylish space sleeps up to four people in two large suites interconnected by a hallway (perfect if you’re enjoying a family-moon). There are two king-size beds with a pillow menu that guaranteed my beauty sleep, two fully equipped bathrooms with waterfall showers and a freestanding vintage-inspired bathtub

Last but certainly not least, the La Latina neighbourhood situated in the heart of Madrid, dating back to the Middle Ages, is home to the famous El Rastro Flea Market which was top of my list to discover. Allow some time in this bustling area that offers a romantic mix of old meets new. Viva España! IT: Rates at from approx £325 per room per night on a bed and breakfast

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