Your Herts and Beds Wedding - October/November 2021 (Issue 88)

www.yourhertsbeds.wedding

WIN!

A minimoon in France worth up to £1,500

Floral

FANTASY

Discover big-day blooms

Truly ROMANTIC Heartwarming love stories

KEEP IT LOCAL

Wed in north Bedfordshire

Time to celebrate

OCT/NOV 2021

£3.55

A helpful guide to wedding entertainment

HONEYMOONS, BEAUTY, GROOMS, EXPERT ADVICE, FREEBIES AND MORE...

LUXURY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY & FILM

Capturing the Natural, Fun & Real Moments

No Cheese, No Awkward Posing You can trust our experience, flexibility, friendliness, and quirky sense of humour to ensure your day is a hit! When you read the reviews on our website, you'll see that all of our couples have said how much they felt at ease with us! So whether you're uncomfortable in front of a camera or an Instagram Pro, let's chat. We'd love to listen to your plans and give advice based on our experience, discuss how you feel about being photographed, and then you can see for yourself if we're the perfect match for you!

CONTACT US: 0800 852 7741 steve@hertsphotography.co.uk www.hertsphotography.co.uk

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

CONTENTS

43

REGULARS 6 EDITOR’S LETTER

Olivia Gibson shares her top picks from this issue

9 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions

11 FREEBIES & OFFERS

On the cover

This issue’s cover is taken from the styled shoot on page 47, which was captured by the talented Caroline Opacic Photography. Check out the company: https://carolineopacicphotography.com

FEATURES 37 BRIDAL BEAUTY

Fall in love with this ethereal-styled shoot at Eggington House

43 PRETTY IN PINK

Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

Be inspired by this beautiful shoot at Gaddesden Estate

73 HOT TOPIC

47 THE CHANGING OF SEASONS

Local experts offer stellar advice on wedding dilemmas

84 COMPETITION

This romantic shoot at Coltsfoot Country Retreat is full of autumnal inspiration

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

51 PICK OF THE BUNCH

VENUES

78 LOVE IS IN THE AIR

16 GOING LOCAL

Discover beautiful blooms to transform your wedding day

Tie the knot in north Bedfordshire

County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey

21 SLAM DUNK

81 BLAME IT ON THE BOOGIE

Discover top sporting venues from around the regions

21

Your A-to-Z guide to wedding entertainment

3

24

56 FASHION & BEAUTY 55 FASHION FOCUS

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

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

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

REAL WEDDINGS

GROOMS

Kylie and Billy had a beautiful wedding with homely, traditional and romantic touches

76 BEST OF BRITISH

All the latest best buys and product launches

24 RUSTIC ROMANCE

31 TRUE LOVE Anthony and Kathryn’s didn’t let Covid-19 ruin their wedding day

64 THE ACCESSORY EDIT

55

Shop something new from our roundup of the latest bridal launches

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

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

HONEYMOONS 86 HONEYMOON NEWS

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

88 TOP FIVE ECO RESORTS from Sri Lanka

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

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

71 FASHION AND BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems

66 4

75 GROOMS’ NEWS

86

For That Special Occasion CELEBRATING 45 YEARS IN ROYSTON

M OTHER OF THE B RIDE S PECIALIST

CONDICI JOHN CHARLES ISPIRATO LIZABELLA ANN BALON LUIS CIVIT GINA BACCONI LEWIS HENRY VENI INFANTINO Sizes 6-26 Free Alteration Service Matching Hats and Fascinators Shoes & Bags available Lingerie from Fantasie, Charnos, Lepel, After Eden, Royce, and Triumph Cup sizes AA-H

Whether you are just looking for invitations, a full wedding package or somewhere in-between.

We would love to work with you to make your special day, extra special.

SAVE-THE-DATES • INVITATIONS & RSVPS • CEREMONY PROGRAM/ORDER OF SERVICE • MENUS • SEATING PLAN • PLACEMENT CARDS • WELCOME SIGN • WEBSITE DESIGN • THANK-YOU CARDS •

+44 (0) 7562 410 715 contact@arcticleaf.co.uk www.arcticleaf.co.uk

John Street, Royston SG8 9BE

Tel: 01763 244073 www.creamfashions.com info@creamfashions.com

T E W I N H I L L FA R M , T E W I N H I L L , T E W I N , H E R T S , A L 6 0 L L

Hill Brothers EVENTS & VENUE T E W I N H I L L FA R M A real hidden gem, nestled within the stunning Hertfordshire countryside is a traditional 3 pole marquee set within the grounds of a farm for a truly unique wedding. We are a family run business and take great pride in our marquee and venue. You will have exclusive use to ensure that every detail is perfect for your special day.

07968 017589 | hillbrothersevents@yahoo.com F A C E B O O K Hill Brothers Event & Venue Hire | I N S T A G R A M hillbrotherseventvenue

Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley ADVERTISING Sales & Events Director Sarah Ellis | 01376 538 490 sarahe@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James

H

ello lovely readers and welcome to another issue of Your Herts and Beds Wedding. Autumn is such a beautiful time of year to exchange vows and Christmas is just around the corner – sorry, I couldn’t help but slip that in there!

As we look back on the last 18 months, it has been an emotional roller coastal for us all with the lockdowns, restrictions and uncertainties. But I’ve never been prouder of the wedding industry who has worked hard to support couples and help them plan the perfect day, while meeting various guidelines in place.

With the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, whoops and cheers, there’s a fantastic buzz in the world of weddings and I’m over-the-moon to see so many special events taking place with lots of celebrations – I’ve missed seeing everyone up on the dancefloor dancing the night away!

Planning a wedding is such an exciting experience and if I could share one piece of advice, it would be to get organised from the get-go. Make a list of everything that’s important to you both and highlight any priorities. It’s always good to have an idea of what you want on your big day, but I recommend not just focusing on one style and ruling everything else out.

Start the planning process with an open mind and discover new elements and exciting ideas that could work well for your day.

If you’re on the hunt for local suppliers, you’re in luck because we’ve searched high and low to find trustworthy companies. In this wonderful issue, you’ll find stellar advice, top tips and inspiration to help you plan the perfect day. From beauty experts, stunning venues, florists, cake bakers and more – we’ve got you covered!

56

We all deserve to feel like royalty on our special day, so make sure to flick to our fairytale-fashion feature and discover showstopping gowns.

43

www.whitneylloydphotography.com

DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding Graphic Designers | Sarah Hill Stephanie Hodder | Vicky O’Connor Production Assistant | Lorna Butcher Digital Marketing Coordinator Katie Laley

Love on top

www.elbethgillis.com

EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 Olivia Gibson | Editor oliviag@county.wedding Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor, Grooms Editor and Travel Editor Kelly Andrews | Senior Editor and Beauty Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor

Olivia x Olivia Gibson, Editor

@CountyWeddingMagazines

This luxurious shoot is bursting full of spring and summer inspiration!

@CountyWeddings

84

@cwm_wedding Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com Your Herts & Beds Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Your Herts & Beds Wedding is published six times a year. Subscription rates are £18.20 per annum (incl. p+p). Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing and sent to Your Herts & Beds Wedding, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. ISSN 1753-0911

MEDIA

EVENTS &

PUBLISHING

VENTS

PUBLISHING

PUBLISHING

6

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

It’s time to get excited because you could win a minimoon in France worth up to £1,500!

71

https://nikkismoments.com

www.bradgommonphotography.co.uk

EDITOR’S LETTER

11

Look your big-day best with help from local fashion and beauty experts who share their top advice.

Psst, discover how to receive a free engagement shoot.

9

81 Have a memorable wedding with help from our A-to-Z entertainment guide where you’ll find plenty of inspiration.

Keep up-to-date with all the latest happenings from around the regions.

47

Check out stunning wedding locations in our North Bedfordshire Venues feature – your dream property could only be a few pages away.

www.carolineopacicphotography.com

16

I’m in love with this autumnal-styled shoot, the colour scheme and rustic décor are perfect for the time of year.

7

MULTI AWA RD WINNING W E D D I NG HAIRST YLIST

@angelswithdirtyfaces

Hi my names Kim and I am an independent florist who works from home in my studio on our farm near Welwyn Hertfordshire. I love the journey from start to finish, from initial consultation with my clients, getting to know them and keeping in close contact through there journey up until the day and creating a vision, designing beautiful bespoke flowers for there special day.

07736 700391

www.bloomingorgeousherts.co.uk

@angelswithdirtyfaces

For romantic, elegant timeless hairstyles, please get in touch @kimsandfordhairdressing | kimsandfordhairdressing.co.uk

Eames Photography

Photography 34

@angelswithdirtyfaces

@angelswithdirtyfaces

@ bloom _in _gorgeous bloom in gorgeous flowers by Kim

The Farmhouse at Redcoats is a grade II listed Wedding Barn that boasts 27 chic bedrooms, 140 seated capacity, quirky features, stylish design, award-winning food and landscaped gardens.

The Farmhouse at Redcoats, Redcoats Green, Nr. Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG4 7JR www.farmhouseatredcoats.co.uk | 01438 729 500 | events@farmhouseatredcoats.co.uk | @farmhouseatredcoats 2AA rosette restaurant | 4AA rosette accomodation

YOUR ESSENTIALS Ware Priory is a beautiful Grade I listed building steeped in history, with some of the architecture dating back to Medieval times. Beautifully complemented by modern décor, there are many different spaces on offer to couples looking for a wedding venue.

The team is thrilled that weddings are back in full swing after Covid-19 restrictions have lifted and many lovely weddings have taken place over the last few months. Couples are delighted with the interior refurbishments that have taken place at the property.

The sales and marketing manager at Ware Priory, Kerry Mavris, has also announced the venue’s new catering partners. She says, “We are also delighted to have started working alongside Gusto Catering, Premier Crew Hospitality and The London Kitchen.

Each partner brings with them a wealth of experience in event catering, a love of food, exceptional service and the willingness to please their guests.” She adds, “We’re excited to be able to offer an extended range of menus and cuisines to our couples with a choice of caterer to suit their individual needs. Whilst all three partners have an array of menus; the companies are also able to offer a bespoke service to make each celebration extra special.”

Discover more: www.warepriory.co.uk

www.newpixels.co.uk

ONE FINE DAY

d e w y l r a e N NEWS All the latest from around the regions

PICTURE THE SCENE

Nestled within the stunning Hertfordshire countryside, Hill Brothers Event & Venue is a family-run marquee venue, which offers the perfect spaces for weddings. The experience team is currently offering couples £500 off bookings for 2022 weddings when lovebirds quote Hertswedding22 before the 30th September 2021.

The traditional three-pole marquee is a hidden gem set within the grounds of a farm and couples can enjoy exclusive use of the space.

Claire Hill is the company’s director and she says, “We only offer a limited amount of dates each year for weddings because we want to guarantee that all preparations are as stress-free as possible.” She continues. “We encourage our couples to start the preparations at our venue a week before the special day and we will be on hand to assist.”

Discover more about the venue: www.facebook.com/HIllbrothersevents

Fashion-forward

Situated in the beautiful town of Royston, Chimney Formal Menswear has bounced back from the impact of Covid-19 and is now celebrating its five-year anniversary. The company has endured a difficult time throughout the pandemic like most retailers, but the team is now looking forward while focusing on their next chapter of what has been a major success story since its launch in 2016.

The shop was built beside the original 13.5 metre-high chimney that once provided the draught for the local ironworks’ furnace and has been a labour of love for owner Sharon Cousans. She says, “Given everything that we’ve been through over the past 18 months, to reach the five-year mark is extremely satisfying. There were points during lockdown where it looked a long way off – particularly with the wedding industry being so badly hit – but we stuck it out and are now seeing things really starting to pick up again.” She adds, “We’re fortunate to have a tremendously loyal customer base who value the things that matter most to us – high-quality menswear at affordable prices, coupled with exceptional service.”

Discover more: www.chimneymenswear.co.uk/index.php 9

SAY YES TO THE DRESS

https://lisajane-photography.com

For style-led and conscious brides searching for the one, A Lover’s Thread specialises in transforming vintage-wedding dresses from fashion destinations all over the world. The Hitchin-based business offers refit, redesign and bespoke embellishment packages to modify any vintage style into a designfocused, contemporary and personal piece.

The company has launched The Mini Embellishment Package aimed at the modern post-lockdown bride-to-be to celebrate the return of weddings after the Covid-19 pandemic. This will include the same details as the company’s other bespoke packages, but at a fraction of the cost and less than half the turnaround time. The service will showcase founder and head designer Sophie Tyler’s signature hand embroidery and romantic-beading style in a new way that reflects how weddings are evolving.

The package includes up to 30 hours of hand beading and embroidery services, which can be added to any of the company’s wedding dresses, a family heirloom, or another vintage gown.

A Lover’s Thread is currently offering £147 off this new service when brides purchase one of their gowns before the 30th November, 2021, and quote ‘#MINIALT’ when booking an appointment or at checkout.

Customers can also show a digital copy of the October/November issue of Your Herts and Beds Wedding during an appointment to receive this discount. Please note T&C’s apply.

Check out:www.aloversthread.com

Looking your best

For brides looking for an experienced make-up artist and hairstylist, look no further than Make-up Artistry London. Head artist and founder, Michelle Perkins, has been in the industry for more than a decade and hand-selected each team member to create the flourishing-freelance business it is today.

The team offers a professional approach and will make brides-to-be feel extra special on their wedding day. Michelle says, “Being part of a wedding morning is such a privilege and we never take it for granted – the magic when everything comes together is just so special!” She continues, “Having a team of hair and make-up artists that you trust and get along with is just as important as the finished look.”

The company is currently offering 10 per cent off all wedding hair and make-up services when couples quote Your Herts & Beds Wedding before the 31st December, 2021.

Check out: www.makeupartistrylondon.com

Light the way

Located in Bedfordshire, Chic & Raw provides luxury, sustainable and natural products for customers to enjoy. The company’s owner, Binanti Cuzner, worked with her husband Darren to create the business to showcase how beauty and harmony can be combined to create the perfect products and environment.

The team have just announced their new Crystal Chakra Candle range, which includes crystals and gems to enhance the experience. Crystals are known for their beneficial energies and many people believe they can cleanse and balance chakras. The products make the perfect gift for the bridal party and creates the perfect home accessory – it’s even perfect for stressed brides who need an emotional detox.

The rose-gold candles contain either crystals or gems matched with fragrances from French perfumers to de-stress customers. Each candle is made from an organic soybean wax, is non-toxic and paraffin-free.

Binanti says, “I wanted to create a sense of joy and harmony with these candles and I think we might have achieved it. Our customers have been wonderful and they tell us how relaxing and beautiful they find these products. We’re adding new candles to the range soon to give our customers more choice and variety. Self-care is essential and the moment there is an increasing interest in meditation.”

Check out: www.chicandraw.co.uk 10

ACCESSORISE AND SHINE

After a busy year designing all things fabulous – including engagement rings, wedding rings, bridal sets and remodelled items – the team at Heulwen Lewis Bespoke knew it was the perfect time to move premises to the new store in Harpenden.

Situated in the beautiful grounds of Thrales End Farm at West Stable, couples will be able to see the owner, Sarah Heulwen Lewis, at work designing their wedding rings and creating the products on the jewellery bench.

All consultations are on an appointment basis only and also can be held via Zoom, WhatsApp or Skype if meeting in person isn’t a possibility. The company can also travel to an address that’s convenient for couples within reason.

To celebrate the new move, Heulwen Lewis Bespoke will also be offering 10 per cent off all wedding bands in October and November when nearlyweds quote HB10% when enquiring about wedding jewellery.

Check out: www.heulwenlewisbespoke.com

FREEBIES & OFFERS

CAPTURING MEMORIES

Freebies & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

For couples looking for a talented wedding photographer to capture their day, look no further than Brad Gommon Photography. The experienced company delivers beautiful photography at an affordable price while ensuring all clients are happy and comfortable in front of the camera.

Owner Brad Gommon blends into the background as much as possible on the day and captures relaxed, natural and documentary-style images. He says, “I understand that no two couples are the same, the day is special to you both and the images need to reflect this. It really is a privilege to photograph so many different and wonderful weddings!”

The business is currently offering a free engagement shoot worth £250 for every wedding booked for 2022 when couples quote Your Herts and Beds Wedding by March 31st 2022.

To view the company’s portfolio and discover the packages available, contact Brad Gommon on bradgommonphotography@gmail.com.

Check out: www.bradgommonphotography.co.uk

WIN A BUNDLE OF YANKEE CANDLE® FRAGRANCES WORTH NEARLY £140!

Scented candles have the power to change the atmosphere in any room, creating a warm, cosy and calming feel at the flick of a match.

Yankee Candle®, the leader in home fragrance known and beloved by fans worldwide, is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a bundle of Original Jar Candles in a selection of favourite fragrances. Including the sophisticated Wedding Day, the sparkling All Is Bright and the enchanting Cherry Blossom in the Original Large Jars, alongside the romantic Fresh Cut Roses, the refreshing Midnight Jasmine and the charming Blush Bouquet in the Original Medium Jars, the bundle is a scented candle lover’s dream.

Yankee Candle® has been sharing its passion for fragrance with the world since 1969. It is important that every fragrance launched is true-to-life and realistic to the experience that inspired it, whether that be a flower, food, fruit or place. Made by master chandlers, each candle developed is a complex system of custom blend wax, a unique wick and carefully crafted fragrance. Master perfumers develop Yankee Candle® fragrances for consistent and satisfying performance across all products.

Every fragrance is rigorously screened, reviewed and tested by the highly experienced team of fragrance experts to achieve a strong scent and

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

Check out www.yankeecandle.co.uk

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

11

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to kickstarting our Autumn wedding show season. From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues, to our larger Signature Wedding Shows home to more than 100 exhibitors each, we can’t wait to welcome back our couples and help plan their wedding days.

Here’s what to expect when attending one of our events...

Whether you’re joyous that restrictions have passed, or are still a little hesitant, couples can rest assured our venues are continuing to maintain some of the government guidelines and measures to ensure everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy the day: • • • • • •

Attendees will need to pre-register to attend events There will be allocated time slots for visitors All venues will also have enhanced cleaning procedures, with hand washing and sanitising facilities still available Spaces between exhibition booths will be maintained to ease congestion Optional face masks Anyone with symptoms must refrain from visiting

Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof.

On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés, and attending our exhibitions is free!

For more information on our any of our exhibitions visit County Wedding Events’ website.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our events.

Sarah

X

Sarah Ellis, Sales and Events Director County Wedding Events.

Psst! Our pre-registered Signature Wedding Show visitors will have the chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of Spabreaks.com

THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE, 24

A date for your diary...

TH

OCTOBER, 2021

WEMBLEY STADIUM, 20TH FEBRUARY, 2022

MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD, 20TH MARCH, 2022

ASCOT RACECOURSE, DATE TO BE RELEASED

Pre-register for all of our events at www.countyweddingevents.com

2021 WEDDING SHOWS ALL EVENTS 11AM - 3PM unless otherwise stated

ESSEX

At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area.

All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day.

BRAXTED PARK

EAST ANGLIA

Great Braxted, Witham, CM8 3EN

SUN 17 OCT

BRESSINGHAM HALL & HIGH BARN

MARKSHALL ESTATE

SUN 7 NOV

SUN 7 NOV

Norfolk, IP22 2AA

Coggeshall, CO6 1TG

Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration.cfm

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA /CountyWeddingEvents

@CountyWedEvent

@countyweddingevents

SURREY

KENT

GUILDFORD MANOR HOTEL & SPA Newlands Corner, Guildford, GU4 8SE

SUN 7 NOV

SUSSEX WEST HEATH

Ashgrove Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 1SR

SUN 24 OCT

SELDEN BARNS

Selden Lane, Patching, Worthing, BN13 3UL

SUN 3 OCT HYTHE IMPERIAL HOTEL & SPA Princes Parade, Hythe, CT21 6AE

SUN 31 OCT

WORK WITH US As part of KD Events and Publishing Ltd, County Wedding Events (CWE) is ideally placed to offer you a wealth of experience organising events in the wedding industry. If you would like more information about either holding a wedding show at your venue or exhibiting at any of our shows, please contact us at info@countyweddingevents.com, call 01376 514000 or visit countyweddingevents.com.

GREENTREES ESTATE

High Street, Haywards Heath, RH17 6JZ

SUN 10 OCT

Signature WEDDING SHOWS • Free entry • First 100 couples receive a free wedding journal keepsake • Goody bag for each couple • Up to 200 stands • Bridal fashion shows • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Demonstration areas • Competitions • Entertainment • Refreshments • And more...

THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE

WEMBLEY STADIUM

Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, CM15 9NN SUNDAY 24 OCTOBER | 11AM - 3:30PM

London, HA9 0WS SUNDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2022 | 11AM - 4PM

Sponsored by

MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD

ASCOT RACECOURSE

Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL SUNDAY 20 MARCH 2022 | 11AM - 3:30PM

High Street, Berkshire, SL5 7JX DATE TO BE RELEASED SOON

Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of

Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration.cfm

Tony Crofts

GOING

local

Where to say “I do” in north Bedfordshire THE FOREST CENTRE 01234 767 037 | www.marstonvale.org

www.pho2u.co.uk

Set within the award-winning beauty of the Millennium Country Park, The Forest Centre is surrounded by a mixture of a magnificent open woodland area, grass meadows and lakes. The venue is the perfect idyllic setting for celebrations with peaceful wildlife and a flower garden complete with charming wooden arbours and walkways. Ideally located for guests traveling in, the Forest Centre offers ample parking and is easily accessible from the M1 and A1.

The venue’s team know that all couples are different; that’s why the wedding spaces have been designed with neutral décor to match any colour scheme or theme. With many ceremony and reception spaces available, The Forest Centre is the perfect wedding property. Exchange vows in The Rectory, a light and spacious ceremony room that can seat up to 80 guests and overlooks the nature reserve entrance. Decorated in neutral tones with an exposed-brick wall and wooden accents, the area is versatile and welcoming for guests.

The largest ceremony space, The Grange, can seat up to 100 guests for ceremonies and offer views across the wildlife pond and grass meadow.

Both of these spaces include decorations for the registrar’s table and any pedestal flowers. With neutral décor and double doors that open up into a large open space, The Grange is the ideal choice for ceremonies that can accommodate all friends and family.

16

The Marquee Reception can host 80 to 150 loved ones on a private meadow behind the Forest Centre, with views over our lake and surrounding woodland. Decorated in ivory-pleated linings with a choice of coloured swags, the marquee comes complete with a carpeted seating area, a wooden dancefloor, chandeliers, complementary up-lighters, chairs and round tables, a bar and cake table.

Alternatively, The Grange is the ideal area for wedding breakfasts with 60 people and it comes with white linen, chair covers and bows to suit different wedding themes. Leading to a partially covered private terrace with seating for guests, the suite also offers access to a private lawn for photographs.

The Lakeside Room is an excellent location for evening receptions, so get the party started and celebrate with 220 guests. The space comes with a licensed bar and space for a DJ or live band. With a high-vaulted ceiling, festoon lighting and room for a dancefloor, the location offers plenty of space for friends and family to get together and enjoy the day.

All weddings at the Forest Centre helps fund the Forest of Marston Vale, supporting the venue’s vision to create new woodlands and wild spaces across 61 square miles in Bedfordshire. As a special gift, the team will dedicate a tree in the forest to each couple to mark the importance of their marriage.

LOCAL VENUES

TURVEY HOUSE 07747 046 398 | www.turveyhouse.co.uk Situated in 150 acres of stunning parkland, Turvey House is a magnificent Grade I listed county house built-in 1794. As guests enter the long-sweeping driveway, they’ll be blown away by the building and the beautiful gardens. The venue knows that no two weddings are the same, which is why the team is very flexible and allows couples to take over the grounds with few limitations. With the magnificent house as a backdrop, views of the River Great Ouse, and exclusive use of the saces, couples are sure to create their dream day.

Turvey House doesn’t have a ceremony space, but lovebirds can have a celebrant-led wedding anywhere on the grounds and continue the celebrations in a traditional-country marquee, a tipi tent or a stretch marquee.

The beautiful-walled garden is the perfect place for wedding photography as well as the terrace at the front of the house, which offers uninterrupted views.

Nestled in the magical woodlands, the beautiful River Cottage is new from 2021, and includes three bedrooms, a sitting room with a wood burner and fully-refurbished spaces.

Check out...

GREAT DENHAM COMMUNITY HALL

EASTFIELDS FARM BARNS 01234 708 930 | www.eastfieldsfarmbarns.co.uk

01234 345 383 | www.greatdenhamcommunityhall.co.uk Great Denham Community Hall provides a fresh and bright canvas to match any colour scheme or wedding theme. The Saxon Hall boasts an in-built stage area that’s perfect for a top table or seating area, whilst the Wessex Hall has floor-to-ceiling mirrors across the main wall to enhance the charm.

Surrounded by beautiful views of the Bedfordshire countryside, Eastfields Farm Barns is a beautiful Georgian barn that creates the perfect environment and atmosphere for celebrations with family and friends. The venue boasts high ceilings, beams and barn doors, which allow plenty of light to shine through onto the stage – making it perfect for a live band.

THE AUCTION HOUSE

THE BARNS HOTEL

01582 732 655 | https://theauctionhouse.uk.com

01234 270 044 | www.barnshotelbedford.co.uk

If couples are searching for a stylish and contemporary wedding venue, then The Auction House is perfect! Ideal for large or intimate ceremonies and receptions, the team will help every step of the way to make sure all requirements are met.

The Barns Hotel is situated in a beautiful location with views over the River Great Ouse and boasting three-and-a-half acres of landscaped gardens. A private mooring allows couples to arrive by boat, making an unforgettable entrance.

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

One of the largest wedding shows to be held in the South of England • Free entry • Win a luxury honeymoon • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Bridal fashion shows • Entertainment • Refreshments • Covid-19 secure

Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of

A date for your diary...

Sunday 20th February 2022, 11AM - 4PM Hosted at Wembley Stadium London

Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration.cfm Follow us on:

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LOCAL VENUES

WOODLAND MANOR HOTEL & RESTAURANT 01234 363 281 | www.woodlandmanorhotel.co.uk Located in four acres, The Woodland Manor House is perfectly set in the centre of woodlands and gardens, which can be seen from almost every window. Arrive in style with the venue’s helipads at the rear of the property and wow guests.

The historic property dates back to the 1800s and features large-bay windows, a grand-entrance doorway proudly displaying the Fitzpatrick family crest and a climbing shrubbery that creates the perfect backdrop for photos. The original house has been extended by adding extra on-site accommodation for guests, so loved ones won’t have to worry about traveling home.

The venue has many beautiful function rooms with traditional-high ceilings and original fireplaces, coupled with modern touches. The main reception area greets guests with the Grand Staircase framing an original-stained glass window, a stunning fireplace and a panelledreception room.

Say “I do” in the venue’s largest room, the Autograph Suite, which leads straight out onto the garden terrace and makes a beautiful backdrop for ceremonies. The room also has a full-length bay window, a marble fireplace and can also be used for receptions with 119 people. Or, why not exchange vows in the Library or the Conservatory surrounded by 30 people? These spaces are an excellent option for

Also check out...

MORETEYNE MANOR

01234 767 003 | www.moreteynemanor.co.uk

Moreteyne Manor is a 16th-century Tudor manor house packed full of history and charm. The family-owned venue has the perfect spaces available for receptions including the restaurant, two private suites and a marquee.

TRE FRATELLI

intimate nuptials and can be hired for extra reception space in the evenings. For more grand affairs, couples can hire a marquee to use in the garden area. The manor house also has a bar and restaurant for couples to use if the venue is hired exclusively.

After dancing the night away, guests can retreat to any 34 on-site bedrooms, including a stunning bridal suite, a small cottage on the grounds with three rooms and a classic four-poster bed suite.

A dedicated wedding coordinator is on hand throughout the wedding journey to help couples create their dream day.

Psssst!

The venue has an on-site spa, The Retreat, which is perfect for hen parties and couples looking to have a relaxing break from wedding planning.

BEDFORD SCHOOL 01234 362 204 | www.bedfordschool.org.uk Bedford School offers a truly magnificent-setting steeped in history and tradition for weddings. Located within 50 acres, the immaculately tree-lined grounds – with shrubs and borders – provide a glorious backdrop for photographs. The Great Hall is located on the first-floor of the main school building that can seat up to 500 loved ones for ceremonies and banquets.

THE BEDFORD SWAN HOTEL 01234 346 565 | https://bedfordswanhotel.co.uk

01234 855 550 | https://trefratellis.co.uk From intimate to large receptions, Tre Fratelli is a family-run business that ensures every aspect of the day is perfect. The venue works with many trusted suppliers and sources good-quality food to create the best experience possible.

Nestled on the embankment of the River Great Ouse, The Bedford Swan Hotel offers the perfect space for fairytale weddings. Built in 1794, the venue’s full of character with a mix of 18th-century architecture and contemporary designs – making it ideal for ceremonies or receptions.

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Get in touch! karolina@kayzieba.co.uk @kayziebaweddings www.kayziebaweddings.co.uk

“...she is like a silent ninja with her camera... ”

ave

Kim & D

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

ONE OF THE LARGEST WEDDING SHOWS TO BE HELD IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND

SPONSORED BY

20 TH MARCH, 2022, 11.00AM - 3.30PM MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD, SURREY •

Free entry

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Win a luxury

wedding specialists

honeymoon

including venues

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Huge number of

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Covid-19 secure

Hosted at

Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of Hosted at Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0SL

Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration.cfm Follow us on

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SPORTING VENUES

Slam Dunk Discover top sporting venues from around the regions

LITTLE HAY GOLF COMPLEX 01442 952 444 | www.littlehaygolf.co.uk Situated amidst a stunning 160-acre golf course with beautiful views over the Bulbourne Valley, Little Hay Golf Complex is a modern building that’s perfect for weddings.

A wide pathway through the landscaped gardens leads to the main building, the front of which is predominantly glass and wood. Ceremonies occur in the Par 3 suite, which overlooks the terrace and golf course and can accommodate 60 seated people. This space is then transferred into a reception area with the addition of the main clubhouse to increase the capacity to 130 people. Guests are always commenting on how light and airy the suite is!

Outside the clubhouse is a terrace overlooking the 9th and 18th holes and a short buggy ride will take couples across the course to the ‘kissing bench’ – a fabulous spot and backdrop for photographs.

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CHESFIELD DOWNS 01462 482 929 | www.chesfielddownsgolf.co.uk

www.parkwinphotography.co.uk

www.parkwinphotography.co.uk

Located in Hertfordshire, Chesfield Downs Golf & Country Club is surrounded by breathtaking views and plenty of green spaces. The stunning scenery, beautiful lakes and magical woodland area all create the perfect photographic backdrop to weddings.

The rustic spaces are all well maintained by the venue’s hardworking and talented team who help couples create the perfect day. Ceremonies and receptions take place in the Conservatory or the Gallery, which can accommodate 120 guests. The wooden conservatory has a big dancefloor and a private bar, which is ideal for evening celebrations.

A complimentary tasting session is offered to nearlyweds who book the venue for their wedding day.

METROPOLITAN BUSHEY 01923 243 947 | www.metropolitanbushey.co.uk Located near Watford in the leafy county of Hertfordshire, Metropolitan Bushey Events & Sports Venue is a purpose-built wedding property set among 36 acres of well-maintained sports fields. The venue offers lovely views and creates a stunning backdrop for those all-important photos, especially with the changing colours of spring, autumn and winter.

Metropolitan Bushey’s function rooms have lots of natural light and provide a blank canvas to be decorated to match different colour schemes and wedding themes. The Ballroom is the largest space that’s perfect for ceremonies and receptions with a capacity of 300 people 22

for reception drinks and 250 in the evening. Here, loved ones can enjoy the dedicated bar area and dancefloor, plus there’s space for extra entertainment.

Another reception option is The Glindon Room, which accommodates up to 90 seated people. It features a small stage, a fully-stocked bar and a private outdoor patio overlooking the gardens.

Alternatively, The Aldenham Room can cater for 100 seated guests and has a fully stocked bar, DJ facilities, an outdoor balcony, a dancefloor with disco lighting available and booths for groups to sit and relax.

Couples who book the property will meet the experienced wedding team, including the wedding coordinator, the chefs, and the entertainment team who will help lovebirds create the perfect day while meeting their exact requirements.

SPORTING VENUES

BRICKENDON GRANGE GOLF CLUB 01992 511 258 | www.bggc.org.uk Located within the rolling Hertfordshire Countryside in 160 acres of natural parkland, Brickendon Grange Golf Club is the perfect venue for wedding receptions. As couples enter the picturesque driveway, they’ll be blown away by the scenery and the magnificent 19th-century manor house. The exceptional chefs and hard-working staff will ensure that all weddings are perfect.

The venue doesn’t currently have a ceremony licence, but there are two beautiful village churches and a registry office nearby. Receptions occur in the magnificent and new extended Grange Suite, which is fully selfcontained with a bar, bathroom facilities, dancefloor and private terrace.

This space can cater for 132 guests for wedding breakfasts or 200 for a buffet-style meals. Couples love the private terrace boasting 180-degree views, which provide the perfect backdrop for all-important wedding photos. For more intimate nuptials, the beautiful Oak Room is perfect for 30 loved ones.

When couples book one of the venue’s wedding packages, the team will offer them a free-food tasting session to try some delicious dishes and help from a dedicated wedding planner to bring dream weddings to life.

Also check out...

DYRHAM PARK COUNTRY CLUB

02084 403 361 | www.dyrhampark.com

LUTON HOO HOTEL, GOLF & SPA 01582 734 437 | www.lutonhoo.co.uk

Set in a magnificent estate of 200 acres and 18-hole parkland golf course, Dyrham Park Country Club boasts outstanding views across the Hertfordshire countryside and is ranked among the oldest and one of the most beautiful Hertfordshire wedding venues. The lawns, flowers, lakes and magnificent trees turn dream wedding photos into a reality.

THE GROVE 01923 807 807 | www.thegrove.co.uk

Stretching over 1,000 acres, the Luton Hoo estate boasts formal gardens designed by Capability Brown, glorious parkland, meadows, woodlands, lakes, rivers and nature trails – truly picture perfect! Beyond the magnificent façade of the 18th-century mansion house, the historic influences continue in the Grade II listed Country Club.

SHENDISH MANOR HOTEL & GOLF COURSE 01442 232 220 | www.shendish-manor.com

Steeped in history, The Grove offers 300 acres of stunning Hertfordshire countryside ready for guests to explore. Originally the rural seat for the Earls of Clarendon, the hotel’s exterior is nothing short of grand and the Formal Gardens make the perfect backdrop for photos, complete with an ornamental canal, bright flowers and views over the golf course.

Situated in 160 acres of parkland, Shendish Manor Hotel & Golf Course is the perfect blend of elegance and modern design. With stunning high-ceilings complete with chandeliers and antique fireplaces, the spaces available will wow any guests.

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romance RUSTIC

Kylie and Billy had a beautiful wedding with homely, traditional and romantic touches Images courtesy Rafe Abrook Photography

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REAL WEDDINGS

K

ylie first met Billy during a night out in London, where they were introduced through mutual friends. She was attracted to his eyes, charm and humour, while he thought that Kylie was the most beautiful girl in the club. She says, “People talk about that special spark, but I honestly remember a moment during the night when sparks flew – we both had met our match.”

Billy proposed on Christmas day after the pair and their son had finished opening presents. She says, “Billy and Leo disappeared upstairs together, which I didn’t think much of at the time. I stopped in my tracks when my little boy came running towards me with a box and Billy was standing behind him with a smile.” She continues. “I cried as I opened it and saw Billy down on one knee, the rest was a blur really and I couldn’t even say ‘yes’ because I was crying so much! It was simple, sentimental and cosy – just how we like things.”

SETTING THE SCENE The couple’s main goal was to stay calm during the day and not to let other peoples’ opinions get in the way of their perfect wedding. As wedding plans were well underway, the Covid-19 pandemic hit the UK and caused them both to change the venue and date to work with the restrictions in place. The bride says, “Even though we changed our plans a couple of times, we ended up having the wedding of our dreams. The pandemic forced us to have a slightly more stripped back version of the day that suited us both really well. If it wasn’t for the restrictions, we could have ended up having a wedding that really wouldn’t have been us.”

The wedding took place on the 26th June 2021, which worked out well because some of the restrictions started to lift and allowed them to have even more guests on the day. The bride travelled to the venue in a 1962 MkII Jaguar in white, which looked beautiful in photographs.

The ceremony took place at St Peter’s Church, in the couple’s home town. Here, many of Kylie’s family had tied the knot and it’s where her brothers and herself were christened. Her grandma also used to be the church florist and her uncles were choir boys.

The atmosphere on the day was magical, with so many loved ones in one place, ready to be part of a celebration of love again after such a long time.

The Loft St. Albans is a 600-year-old building that provided the perfect reception space with open beams, soft lighting and rustic touches.

The naked-style cake looked beautiful and was a massive hit with guests and included lemon, vanilla and red velvet flavours. Fresh flowers and foliage finished off the design beautifully and the cake sat on a wooden stand.

The day before the wedding, the couple started to panic as they’d realised that no one had been arranged to decorate the venue and they decided to call the cake supplier Kate for help. Kylie says, “She answered my desperate phone call and saved the day! Kate decorated the venue perfectly and we were blown away with how beautiful everything looked.”

The horseshoe-styled table sat 60 people and featured different bottles and vases to decorate the space. Fresh and contemporary British cuisine was served to guests, which tasted delicious.

Each place name was handwritten and each guest was given sweets in a little cone-shaped bag for the favours. For those with a sweet tooth, they could tuck into the pick ‘n’ mix station.

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The flowers were inspired by the English countryside and had lots of foliage. The bride says, “I wanted the blooms to look like I had picked them up from a garden.” The florist is friends with Kylie and Billy and really captured the look perfectly.

LOOKING THE PART After trying on a few dresses, the bride fell in love with a Stella York ivory dress from Pure Couture that featured spaghetti straps and a princess style. She added a veil created by the boutique’s seamstress and earrings from Victoria Percival to achieve the desired bohemian vibe. After looking in the mirror for the first time, the bride felt overwhelmed but so beautiful and fully herself.

The groom looked dashing in a brown/beige suit from ASOS that he had tailored professionally and finished off the look with a sage-green tie and a dark-brown waistcoat from Moss Bros. He stood out from the rest of the groomsmen, who were all in navy suits and brown ties.

The bridesmaid all wore different gowns in taupe from JJ’s House.

Kylie says, “I got the girls to choose their own style of dress as I wanted them to feel happy and comfortable on the day.”

TIME TO CELEBRATE The couple booked a DJ last minute to keep guests entertained as soon as the Government announced that weddings could go ahead. Kylie says, “Everyone was in high spirits as for some, it was their first time out for a long time. The party was so electric, and we have friends commenting on how much fun our wedding was every day – it warms our hearts.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS Billy was very nervous before the wedding as he isn’t great with public speaking or being in the limelight, but he ended up surprising himself with his confidence. His speech had everyone roaring with laughter and Kylie was in awe that he faced his biggest fear! She, on the other hand, wasn’t nervous until just before she walked down the aisle. It didn’t help that she had kept everyone in the church waiting and was late to the ceremony. She says, “As myself and the bridesmaids are hairstylists and make-up artists, we created our looks on the day, which is great but set us back a lot.”

The bride loved planning the wedding with her mum, who’s been an incredible support throughout the whole experience. Kylie says, “I couldn’t have done it without her!”

HONEYMOON The couple set off to the beautiful Sopwell House for two nights to reminisce the day and celebrate the wedding. They’re currently planning a trip to Hawaii next year for their main honeymoon and can’t wait to discover the beautiful island.

“Our top tip for others would be to trust the process and enjoy every minute of the day. Don’t try to please others before yourself.” – Kylie

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Hayley Pomfrett

Loftserves serves the Loft thebest best British produce, ofofBritish produce, cooked simply cooked simply butwith with imagination. imagination. but

With a huge repertoire of music from well-known classics through to modern pop hits, she will work with you to find your perfect selection of favourite songs for your ceremony, drinks reception, wedding breakfast, or all three!

Your ideal destination for Wedding Reception Lunch or Dinner and listed in the Good Food Guide 2019 and 2020 ‘We deliver accomplished modern British food – clean flavours and creative dishes driven by seasonal produce of impeccable pedigree sum up the approach.‘

Described as the “cream of violinists”, Hayley has toured the world with Adele, Michael Bublé, Rod Stewart and many more.

w w w.hay ley po mfret t .c o m Tel: 07740 307542 Email: info@hayleypomfrett.com @hayleypomfrett @hayley_violinist

Amy Woodham Photography is a place for people who love life, who laugh out loud and hug tight.

01727865568 | info@loftstalbans.com | www.loftstalbans.com

07376259661 amy@amywoodhamphotography.com www.amywoodhamphotography.com amywoodham_photography amy woodham photography

Stunning tents for stunning weddings!

Step away from the traditional marquee with Alternative Stretch Tents. Based in Hertfordshire providing Stretch Tents up and down the country.

WE LOVE STRETCH TENTS! Years of experience, passion and enthusiasm to get what you want from your event.

t: 01920 830256 e: info@alternative-stretch.co.uk w: www.alternative-stretch-tents.co.uk

@alternative_stretch_tents

David

J Pearson Professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies Fellow of the Guild of Professional Toastmasters Expert planning support and the final touch of distinction for your occasion

www.dptoastmaster.co.uk Tel: 020 8863 7291 Mobile: 07738 991 685 Email: david@dptoastmaster.co.uk

178 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8BL 01234 855537 | info@katejosephbridal.co.uk www.katejosephbridal.co.uk

REAL WEDDINGS

KYLIE AND BILLY’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK

Venue, www.loftstalbans.com | Photographer, www.rafeabrook.co.uk | Bride’s dress, www.purecouture.co.uk Bride’s accessories, www.victoriapercival.com | Hair, www.instagram.com/hairbykylie__ | Make-up, www.eleanorcolemakeup.com Bridesmaids’ dresses, www.jjshouse.co.uk | Groom’s suit, www.asos.com | Cake, www.facebook.com/katescakes85 Flowers, www.facebook.com/carlysparksfloraldesign | Entertainment, www.djrymo.com/home-mobile.html Cake stand, www.mhwoodland.co.uk 29

Putterridge Bury_FPA_YHBW70.indd 1

03/09/2018 16:01

TRUE

love

REAL WEDDINGS

Anthony and Kathryn didn’t let Covid-19 ruin their wedding day Images courtesy of Becky Kerr Photography

A

fter Kathryn’s marriage came to an end, she decided to give online dating a go to try and find her perfect match. After five years of being unsuccessful, she started to lose hope until she found a needle in a haystack. She says, “My online subscription on Match was coming to an end and boom, a message from Anthony appeared. He was so easy to message, and we decided to meet at The Flying Fox in Clophill the following day.” She continues, “I felt like I had known him for years and the conversation flowed all night – I didn’t want to go home!”

The couple spent the next two months making a deeper connection before they met each other’s children and two months later, they bought their first home together.

Anthony proposed at the pairs favourite bar called The Hide back in 2020. Kathryn comments, “It was just amazing, and I wasn’t expecting it at all! People came over to congratulate us and we had champagne to celebrate.”

Here Kathryn shares details about their special day…

31 

Office and had our We exchanged vows at St Albans Registry thill.

Amp in Hart te Whi reception at The

d we loved the

rs an s created our flowe Emi Floral Design lier. de an ch l ra hanging-flo

We instantly fell in love with The White Hart after our pho tographer, Becky Ker r Photography, shared photos of the stunning venue online. Th e property’s manager Bar ry was amazing!

As everything was falling into place, lockdown hit and we ended up changing the date to 21st May, 2021.

We managed to have our first dance inside and then had another one outside while a jazz singer performed.

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REAL WEDDINGS

A big bonus about the venue is that we can go back every year on our anniversary to celebrate.

Anthony looked amazing in a

s shopping with my a gown and decided to go dres I had only eight weeks to find and found a gown on, p, The Dress House in Lut Aunty. We visited a lovely sho ror thinking, ‘I mir I remember just staring in the called Baronia by La Sposa. ul’. e beautif don’t think I have ever felt mor

Hugo Boss suit.

se we kept worr ying about The lead up to the wedding was difficult becau But everything went to plan Covid and if the day could take place or not. in the end and was perfect.

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Our photograph Becky snapped away in the background while capturing the most beautiful shots.

sur rounded by was amazing to be in a room The day was so intimate, it rt. apa g bein e loved ones after such a long tim

I want to say a special thank you to Shona Claire Beauty for coming out and doing my make-up. She took a picture of me on her phone and I looked like my mum, who sadly passed away nine years ago.

The venue’s food was outstanding and everyone commented about how tasty it was.

ANTHONY AND KATHRYN’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK Venue and catering, www.thewhitehartampthill.co.uk | Photographer, www.beckykerrphotography.co.uk Dress, www.thedress.house | Flowers, www.emifloraldesigns.com | Make-up, https://shonaclairebeauty.co.uk 34

Down Hall HOTEL

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S PA

|

E S TAT E

Voted best wedding venue in Essex in the prestigious wedding awards catagory A wonderful array of rooms and suites perfect for the most intiamte of ceremonies, to the luxury wedding breakfasts and stunning receptions.

All set in 110 acres of beautiful woodland.

Down Hall dates back to 1322 and is saturated in history, reflected in grandeur, elegance and character of the property. More recently, an extensive refurbishment of our wedding facilities has provided a contemporary overhaul of our suites, combining the beautiful historic touches of the building with some unexpected modern touches, appealing to many tastes and themes.

Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Essex, CM22 7AS | 01279 731441 | weddings@downhall.co.uk | www.downhall.co.uk

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

Enquire, book or buy

www.aloversthread.com

Get social with ALT

instagram.com/aloversthread

One of the largest wedding shows to be held in the South of England • Free entry • Win a luxury honeymoon • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Bridal fashion shows • Entertainment • Refreshments • Covid-19 secure

Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SUNDAY 24 OCTOBER | 11AM - 3:30PM Hosted at The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, Essex CM15 9NN Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration.cfm Follow us on

/CountyWeddingEvents

@CountyWedEvent

@countyweddingevents

REGIONAL SHOOT

BRIDAL

beauty

Fall in love with this ethereal-styled shoot at Eggington House

Images courtesy of Richard Puncheon Photography

S

ituated in Bedfordshire, Eggington House is a beautiful venue that provided the perfect backdrop to this styled shoot. With help from other local suppliers, shoot coordinator Caroline Versallion at Caroline Versallion Designs created a romantic style with warm tones and plenty of florals.

She says, “I primarily wanted to connect with other local suppliers and showcase my work while bringing to life my dress designs. Each gown featured a different silhouette and style from a strapless diamante and pearl-embellished

mermaid style, an boho illusion lace/tulle dress in blush, a vintage-style tea-length dress and a satin ball gown with tulle overlay.”

After the Covid-19 restrictions were lifted, the team were happy to participate on the day while refreshing their portfolios and social media feeds with some new work.

Caroline comments, “During the lockdowns, we’d all been considering new techniques within our respective trades and were keen to try them out.”

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REGIONAL SHOOT

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THE DREAM TEAM Venue, https://eggingtonhouse.com | Photographer, www.richardpuncheonphotography.com | Dresses, www.carolineversallion.com Accessories, www.love2sparkle.co.uk | Hair, www.danicazurawel.com | Make-up, https://www.facebook.com/mirandamgmakeup Flowers, www.bitsandbuds.co.uk | Model, Jo Ann Williams, Tallulah Nunn

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saffron-caterers.co.uk 07956 326910 Saffron Caterers has a wealth of experience when it comes to providing the very best in wedding catering to make your day truly special.

Miranda MG Makeup

Whether you are planning a formal country marquee wedding or relaxed garden party for your family and friends, we have a dedicated team of chefs and event professionals who are passionate about delivering exceptional food and creating a truly memorable day for you and your guests.

PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTIST Over 15 years experience working in fashion, editorials, TV & Film & Bridal makeup

07957609213 | mirandammis@gmail.com |

BRAD GOMMON PHOTOGRAPHY 07533 447789 | www.bradgommonphotography.co.uk | 20% OFF ALL REMAINING 2021 DATES

mirandamgmakeup

Family friendly self catering at Fuller’s Hill Cottages on a family run farm in South Cambridgeshire. Featuring 7 unique cottages with hot tubs and pretty gardens which can sleep individual families or larger gatherings and social bubbles! For a love of the outdoors, local attractions, dog friendly, a new sundown spot to watch the beautiful sunsets, and a play area, choose us for your next staycation! Wedding receptions including Tee-pees, with beautiful sunsets, marquee in the courtyard garden, bandstand on the airfield, with a helpful hand along the way... Please get in touch for further information.

GET IN TOUCH Please call Kirstie on 07544 208959 Email bookings@fullershillcottages.co.uk www.fullershillcottages.co.uk @fullershillcottages

Fullers Hill Cottages Official

Elegant, contemporary cake designs showcasing beautifully hand-crafted, realistic sugar flowers or fresh flowers. Using only the finest ingredients, your dream cake will taste delicious, look amazing and be beautifully styled for your special day. Perfect for those all-important photographic memories.

Please get in touch to book your wedding cake discovery call!

www.angelajanecakedesign.co.uk | info@angelajanecakedesign.co.uk | 07939 554 242

@fullershill

Pretty in pink REGIONAL SHOOT

Be inspired by this beautiful shoot at Gaddesden Estate

www.whitneylloydphotography.com

Images courtesy of Sharon Champion Photography and Whitney Lloyd Photography

P

hotographers Sharon Champion and Whitney Lloyd worked together to create this beautiful shoot at the Gaddesden Estate. With help from local suppliers, they created a luxurious and romantic style using a pink colour scheme.

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44 The images of this page are courtesy of https://sharonchampionphotography.mypixieset.com

The images on this page are courtesy of www.whitneylloydphotography.com

REGIONAL SHOOT

THE DREAM TEAM Venue, www.gaddesdenestate.co.uk | Shoot coordinators and photographers, https://sharonchampionphotography.mypixieset.com and www.whitneylloydphotography.com | Dress, https://morgandaviesbridal.co.uk/hitchin-boutique | Accessories, www.pswithlove.co.uk | Hair and make-up, www.facebook.com/jodieelleanormakeup | Suit, https://hrhholmes.co.uk | Cake, www.instagram.com/tabi.cakes | Flowers, https://graceandviolet.com | Stationery, www.whiteorchidpd.com | Bespoke wedding rings, https://bwr-london.co.uk | Styling, http://theluxedesignco.com | Videography, https://charlymaephotography.com | Models, www.instagram.com/charlotteanthony_ 45

of seasons

THE CHANGING

REGIONAL SHOOT

This romantic shoot at Coltsfoot Country Retreat is full of autumnal inspiration Images courtesy of Caroline Opacic Photography

S

ituated in Knebworth, Coltsfoot Country Retreat provided the perfect backdrop to this autumnal-styled day. Shoot coordinator Michelle Perkins at Make-up Artistry London pulled together a team of talented suppliers to bring her vision to life. She says, “I wanted to capture the stunning Hertfordshire venue in the height of autumn because it’s a popular time of year to get married. We created a modern style with a romantic and rustic theme while showcasing an autumnal palette of rich orange and berry accents with greens, blush and ivory shades.”

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REGIONAL SHOOT

THE DREAM TEAM Shoot coordinator and make-up, www.makeupartistrylondon.com | Hair, www.facebook.com/Lucaseyhair | Venue and alpacas, www.coltsfoot.com Photographer, www.carolineopacicphotography.com | Dresses, www.birdcagebridal.com | Suits, www.asos.com | Flowers, www.two-girls-and-some-flowers.co.uk | Styling, www.rocktheday.co.uk | Models, www.instagram.com/lauraels_ and www.instagram.com/rcletlow 49

Viva Creative Flower Company Our life long love affair with flowers is the inspiration and driving force behind our exquisite Wedding Florals, uniquely designed for you... working with you... to create the wedding florals of your dreams.

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@magicgardenflorist

Making your special day magical with perfect wedding flowers 2 The Arcade, Bedford MK40 1NS Monday - Saturday 9:30 - 5:30pm

07410 551628 | info@magicgarden.florist 01234 353444www.magicgarden.florist 2 The Arcade info@magicgarden.florist@magicgardenflorist Bedford MK40 1NS www.magicgarden.florist

Monday - Saturday 9:30am - 5:30pm

@magicgardenflorist

Pick of the bunch

FLOWERS

Discover beautiful blooms to transform your wedding day

F

https://bitsandbuds.co.uk

www.sarahjscottphotography.com

D reaemts bouqu

https://bitsandbuds.co.uk

www.woburnweddingflowers.com www.andysiddersphotography.co.uk

http://markfraserphotography.co.uk

https://sarahannweddings.com

inding the perfect flowers can become a difficult task with so many different floral options available for weddings. Here at Your Herts and Beds Wedding, we’ve gathered talented suppliers and plenty of inspiration to make the process more manageable. From bouquets, floral backdrops and venue décor – we’ve got you covered. Now sit back, relax and enjoy these stunning blooms!

www.woburnweddingflowers.com

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https://sarahannweddings.com

Beautiful backdrops

https://bitsandbuds.co.uk

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www.instagram.com/thistle_and_moss

www.instagram.com/thistle_and_moss

https://bitsandbuds.co.uk

https://bitsandbuds.co.uk

www.instagram.com/sarah_j_scottphotography

www.bradgommonphotography.co.uk

FLOWERS

Floral décor

https://bitsandbuds.co.uk

www.woburnweddingflowers.com

www.woburnweddingflowers.com

DISCOVER THE FLORISTS INVOLVED www.instagram.com/thistle_and_moss

Lesley Symonds | Woburn Wedding Flowers | www.woburnweddingflowers.com Lucy Moss | Thistle & Moss | www.instagram.com/thistle_and_moss Helen Suich | Bits and Buds | https://bitsandbuds.co.uk

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Weddings Ceremonies & Evening Receptions

In the heart of rural Bedfordshire

Spacious Wedding Suite Wedding Garden for Outdoor Photographs Wedding Ceremony Licence Dedicated Wedding Team Free Parking for Guests Treat our space like a blank canvas and make it your own We don’t have set packages or insist you use particular suppliers The Rufus Centre, Steppingley Road, Flitwick, MK45 1AH Tel: 01525 631905 Email: events@therufuscentre.co.uk www.therufuscentre.co.uk

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

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

Oh and don’t forget...

Follow us on Instagram: @cwm_wedding County Wedding Magazines

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

FASHION

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

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

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

In good hands

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

EDITOR’S FAVOURITE

EDITOR’S PICK

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

focus

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

Something new

Bespoke bridal brand Alonuko has launched the Freedom collection of ten dresses and one suit.

The styles have been hand-crafted by founder and creative director Gbemi Okunlola and her team using top-quality materials such as silk Mikado and Japanese and Swarovski crystals.

There’s a design to suit every personality, from a grand princess gown to a fitted fishtail shape, all inspired by the designer’s London upbringing and Nigerian heritage.

To book an appointment, visit www.alonuko.co.uk

Little lovelies

Online children’s formalwear brand ROCO has collaborated with TV personality, radio DJ and model Vogue Williams on a hand-picked edit of traditional yet contemporary cotton and linen-mix pieces ideal for junior bridesmaids and pageboys.

The stunning collection consists of 15 looks ranging from £35 to £60 for ages three months to 14 years, and hero items have been named after Vogue’s children with a pink Gigi one-piece and a charming Theodore two-piece.

To shop, visit www.rococlothing.co.uk

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

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

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

www.elbethgillis.com 56

FASHION

www.berta.com

www.herveparis.com

Scan to view video

Savin London at www.mayandgracebridal.com

www.clairepettibone.com 57

www.justinalexander.com/justin-alexander-signature 58

FASHION

www.jlmcouture.com/Lazaro

www.jlmcouture.com/Tara-Keely

https://sassiholford.com

www.morilee.co.uk

www.charliebrear.com 59

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www.halfpennylondon.com

www.justinalexander.com/lillian-west

Marchesa for Pronovias, www.pronovias.com

www.rosaclara.es/en-gb

www.justinalexander.com/sincerity-bridal

https://graceloveslace.com

FASHION

s p a r w

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

Flora by https://clairepettibone.com 61

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

Bridal suit by www.alonuko.co.uk

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

Daisy and Harper by www.elbethgillis.com

Onas by www.rosaclara.es/en-gb 62

Audrey by www.needleandthread.com

Amber by https://sassiholford.com

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

FASHION

Savannah jumpsuit by www.lolatara.com

Cheryl by www.morilee.com

Brigitte top by https://carmenllaguno.com

Vertou by https://herveparis.com

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

Oliver dress and Degas skirt by www.halfpennylondon.com

www.alonuko.co.uk 63

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

Leo With Love has launched an engraving service with its new Signature Collection, an edit of silver pendants, £100, and bracelets, £90.

Complimentary engraving on the back can be added with up to 20 characters, www.leowithlove.com The debut wedding collection from Lock & Co. Hatters has recently launched with hats, veils and headbands priced from £350. Lock & Co. Couture by Awon Golding includes this Jamie style, www.lockhatters.com

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

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

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

THE ACCESSORY

edit

Shop something new from our round-up of the latest bridal launches These moon and star hair slides from the new Autumn/Winder collection from Hush will adorn any bridal hairdo, www.hush-uk.com The new Z for Accessorize Gold Vermeil Collection features a selection of necklaces and earrings decorated with semi-precious stones with affordable prices ranging from £20 to £50. These heart-shaped studs are a great choice for brides, www.accessorize.com/uk 64

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

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

ONE OF THE LARGEST WEDDING SHOWS TO BE HELD IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND

DATE TO BE RELEASED VERY SOON ASCOT RACECOURSE, BERKSHIRE • Free entry

• Bridal fashion shows

• Win a luxury honeymoon

• Entertainment

• Huge number of wedding

specialists including venues

• Refreshments • Covid-19 secure

Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of Hosted at Ascot Racecourse, High Street Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7JX

Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration.cfm Follow us on

/CountyWeddingEvents

@CountyWedEvent

@countyweddingevents

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

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

Oh and don’t forget...

Follow us on Instagram: @cwm_wedding

@CountyWeddings

Follow us on Facebook: County Wedding Magazines Follow us on Pinterest: County Weddings

#BROWGOALS

ANYONE FOR TEA?

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

Check out www.qandaskin.com

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

Priced at £22 Kevyn Aucoin True Feather Brow Duo is available at www.spacenk.com

Beauty

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

BUZZ ZEST FOR LIFE

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

The Glenashdale Body Care Gift Set is £30 at https://arran.com

ONE ENCHANTED EVENING

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

THAT’S A WRAP

The Copper Sure Rapid Dry Hair Wrap is the latest innovation from cult hair health brand AQUIS. Made from a naturally antimicrobial performance fabric it allows the hair to dry without force or heat and eliminates the frizz, damage and breakage caused by harsh terry towels. Hair is at its weakest when wet so protecting it from such harsh treatment means it’ll be smoother and stronger. What’s more, since it’s woven with copper, which boasts antimicrobial and antibacterial properties proven to repel bacteria the wrap stays fresher longer, and is great for travel.

I absolutely love mine – it’s taken the stress out of washing my hair in more ways than one. Check out www.aquishair.co.uk where the AQUIS Copper Sure Rapid Dry Hair Wrap is priced at £30.

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FOR YOUR EYES ONLY

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

Priced at £16, it’s available at www.glossybox.co.uk

BEAUTY NEWS

KISS ME QUICK

When you’re lost for words, let your lips do the talking with the newest member of Glow Hub’s core essentials range, pep talk_. The petrochemical-free formula is bursting with nourishing avocado, rosehip and almond oils, rich in vitamin E and B to softly plump lips while giving them a hit of hydration. Finished with a team of peptides to help smooth creases, define contours and boost fullness it leaves you with a beautiful pillowy pout.

Totally kissable lips on your wedding day! pep talk_ Plump Peptide Rescue Balm is £8 at https://glowhub.com

SILKY SMOOTH

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

This Is Silk Cleansing Cloths in Noir are £21.99 for three at https://thisissilk.com

PERFECT PREP

Award-winning and cruelty-free make-up brand Milani Cosmetics has introduced the Rose Prep + Prime range to Boots and Beauty Bay. It’s all about nourishing and replenishing your skin for a radiant complexion and dewy glow.

I’m a fan of the lip treatment products in particular, which were game-changers for me! The Rose Sugar Lip Scrub (£13.75) comes first in the pamper session, polishing dry and chapped areas for an ultra-soft and smooth pout. Follow with The Rose Butter Lip Mask (£13.75), which contains hyaluronic acid to plump and replenish moisture. Your lipstick will look perfect on the day and your bridal make-up artist will love you for doing all the prep for them!

These little heroes are available at www.milanimakeup.co.uk

NATURAL BEAUTY

#LIFEPROOF

Clarins’ new everlasting foundation and concealer are the perfect duo for your complexion, combining the very best of the brand’s skincare expertise with make-up that boasts 24-hour wear with high coverage and a matte finish. The two products contain a special hold polymer using organic oat sugars, known for their ability to increase the adherence of colour pigments to the skin, meaning you’ll stay looking flawless from vows to dancefloor.

The Everlasting Foundation is priced at £31 (30ml) and the Everlasting Concealer at £23 (15ml). Find out more at www.clarins.co.uk

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

The Dreamy Compact Palette is available exclusively in the UK for £29.95 at www.liveinthelight.co.uk 67

Be beautiful

BE YOU

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

Tim McBaj

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

B

orn in Uganda and raised in Denmark Emolyne Ramlov discovered a passion for make-up upon entering her teenage years. Until the age of 13 when she moved to Europe she hadn’t been permitted to wear make-up, which in Africa was seen as a distraction from studying and an unwelcome beginning to a flirtation with the opposite sex. So, it was a complete culture shock for her as she sat alongside her new classmates to find them in full beat and looking glam. “I went home and said to my mum: ‘We need to talk!’ She took me shopping and I filled my basket with as much make-up as I could.

I needed to catch up and I haven’t stopped since,” she tells us.

County Wedding Magazines’ beauty editor, Kelly Andrews, met up with Emolyne to discover more about her journey from passionate teenager to creating her very own make-up brand.

What was the inspiration behind Emolyne?

As my love for make-up grew I visited plenty of big stores looking for products to suit my skin tone, but couldn’t find the right ones. They had two to three reds perhaps, but none that I 68

liked or were complementary. As I grew older I realised that this was a problem across a lot of different product ranges. There was no single brand offering a matching lipstick, liner and nail polish, so I thought: “Well, I’m just going to do this then!”

I use a lot of reds and nudes myself, so it made sense to start there, making sure that no matter the skin tone someone would be able to get at least one of each. I created 15 reds and 15 nude shades and even then I wasn’t sure if I should stop! The range has five colours for light, five for medium and five for dark skin tones. It allows people to pick a different colour for different seasons, as our skin tone changes throughout the year. I also created a kit to save my customers time, meaning once they discover their perfect shade they can easily find the matching products.

When it came to naming this huge range of shades I wanted to be able to tell a story while keeping the brand personal, so I immediately thought of Africa. It was a way of honouring my place of birth and bringing the whole story together. Plus, I knew I could never run out of names if I looked there for inspiration!

Tell us more about the ideas, ethics and beliefs the company is founded on.

I wanted this brand to be for everyone, no matter their gender or race – if you’re into make-up this is the place for you. The selection is big enough that everyone can feel included, which was the key.

How do we achieve that perfect marriage between skin tone and make-up shades?

The easiest way for us was to put models on our website covering as many different skin tones as

BEAUTY INTERVIEW

we could. That way customers can see whose is the closest to their own and how each shade looks on her.

Tell us about your own beauty regime.

I keep it simple. I wash my face every morning and evening, as well as steaming to open the pores, which allows serums to absorb more effectively. I use serum everywhere – hands, face, neck. These are the areas that start to show signs of age once you reach 40, so it’s important to look after them. A dermatologist once told me to use serum on my dry hands, and up to then I’d always thought it was just for the face, but I’ve never looked back. Ole Henriksen’s Truth Serum is my favourite, and not just because he’s a fellow Dane!

What are your make-up bag must-haves?

Uganda, Casablanca and Abuja are my favourite Emolyne shades. But it’s like being asked about my favourite child – they’re all my babies! I mainly wear a nude during the day for meetings, and in the evening I prefer reds.

I’m particularly into red oranges at the moment.

I always carry a nail polish with me too – Cameroon is versatile and works for all skin tones. And tissues... a mum can’t work without a tissue!

What’s your top wedding-day make-up look?

I’d go for something light depending on hair colour and skin tone. Keep it simple, elegant

and clean to keep focus on the eyes. You want your new spouse to see you sparkle. For light skin tones I’d recommend Luxor, Eritrea or Ciaro. For medium tones Tanzania, Kampala or Uganda work beautifully. And for darker tones Nairobi, Asmara or Marrakech are all perfect.

Begin by using your favourite moisturiser, I’m a fan of a thick formulation in the winter.

That serves as a base for the foundation and concealer. Then, keep building the look until you’re happy. Don’t start too strong as it’s hard to take anything back once you’ve gone too far.

“Enjoy and play with colour.

Rule your shade and don’t be afraid to try something you haven’t tried before, they’re there to be explored.”

What advice would you offer a bride who might not be used to wearing make-up but who wants to step it up for the wedding?

I’d tone it down, don’t use too much. A little colour makes the lips pop, and match that to the eyeshadow for an on trend monochromatic look.

What’s the one make-up secret you wish everyone knew?

Moisturise properly before you do anything else. That’ll give you that all-important glow and

sets your make-up for long-lasting perfection. It was essential to me that our lipsticks last so you don’t have to keep topping it up throughout the day and that’s particularly important for a bride.

What’s your proudest achievement so far?

Definitely having the brand recognised for inclusivity. I love to see people go on the website and realise just how much choice there is, and hearing them say they just don’t know which to choose.

The other thing for me was being able to make the products vegan and cruelty-free. I wanted to educate people to care about what they put on their skin, so this makes me really happy.

Is there anything you’d still like to achieve?

So much! Every day we listen to our consumers and what they want. So, the next phase for Emolyne Cosmetics is incorporating more skin tones for them, as well as including more models they can identify with. I also want to grow the product categories while staying within the 15 reds and 15 nudes concept.

Look out for our pop ups too. Our original plans for these had to be cancelled due to Covid, but I still want somewhere for people to experience the range in real life, so they’ll be coming soon.

Find your perfect match at www.emolyne.com 69

Huda Beauty Glow Obsessions Highlighter Palette £27, www.boots.com “For all those glamorous brides-to-be, this is the perfect product to define your features and achieve that gorgeous glow.

The pocket-sized palettes come with four different shades to match any make-up style and I loved mixing them to create a bespoke hue. To achieve a luminous complexion, I applied to the high points of my face including my cheekbones, brow bone, cupids bow and bridge of my nose, and this buttery, powdered formula blended in beautifully. A big bonus for me was that you can add a small amount for a natural look or build up for a glam finish that looks great in photos.” — Olivia Gibson

GLOW UP!

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

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacianmide Dew Drops £31, www.cultbeauty.co.uk “As a bride-to-be, I know how important it is to look fabulous on your big day, so I was excited to try these drops designed to give you a fresh, dewy look. The product smells amazing, and a little pump goes a long way, so although it’s not the cheapest, it’ll take you a long time to go through it all. I used the drops every morning for a few days and noticed a difference right away. My skin felt softer and looked hydrated. I’m planning to use it on the morning of my wedding and would definitely recommend it.” — Melissa Barker 70

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

— Kelly Andrews

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

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

I’d recommend this product for the summer and warmer weather!” — Olivia Gibson

https://nikkismoments.com

ASK THE EXPERTS

Fashion & beauty

Q&A

Our experts give their advice to help you look your big-day best LOVELY LOCKS

Please can you share some hairstyle inspiration for my bridesmaids and me for my winter wedding? We all have long locks.

First things first, decide how you’d like to wear your hair and then you can find a style for the bridesmaids that matches you looks. There are a few things to consider, such as the unpredictable weather. The cold, rain or even sleet can be a nightmare for long and loose hair because it can cause curls to drop or it might make your hair frizzy.

Winter weddings call for a shawl or a fur stole and if you’re considering a cover-up, make sure your hair won’t rub against the material because you need to move comfortably and confidently all day.

ACCESSORISE AND SHINE I’m trying to find the perfect pieces to finish my wedding look; what style of jewellery is currently on-trend?

You can’t go wrong with a classicdiamond pendant; a single-sparkling diamond will ensure you truly shine on your wedding day. This can not only finish off your wedding attire, but it can also be worn after the day and treasured forever.

Alternatively, a single-pearl pendant is perfect for a more avant-garde look and works perfectly with pearl earrings for something truly elegant.

If you want something blue, a sapphire and diamond are the perfect combination, whether as a simple pendant, an earring set or an elaborate necklece to make a statement.

Lizzie McAuley Baker Brothers Diamonds www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

If you’re opting for floral accessories for the perfect finishing touch, make sure you pick flowers that can survive the cold and won’t wilt against the heat of your head. Snowdrops or ivy and berries are great for a festive feel. For the bridesmaids, pick something to suit each member individually, like a side-messy bun, a romantic-undone braid or a ponytail. Rarely one style will suit everyone, but you can then tie the looks together with the accessories.

I’d recommend you pick a soft and romantic updo, which is not only on trend this year, but will withstand the weather and look effortless.

Kim Sandford | Kim Sandford Hairdressing www.kimsandfordhairdressing.co.uk

BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE I’m looking for a stylish suit to wear at my upcoming wedding. I’d love something that ties in with our winter theme without being over the top. Do you have any suggestions?

There are no rules when it comes to finding a wedding look. For us at Chimney Formal Menswear, personality comes first when it comes to creating your bespoke look. Mix and match styles work really well; blending various patterns, textures and colours derived from different inspirations are great ways to merge character with any theme.

I’d suggest integrating deeper colours such as scarlet, burnt orange, dark green, navy and purple shades for a winter wedding. This can be done delicately through accessories or boldly with a waistcoat or jacket. Adding a pop of colour through a pocket square or cravat can be a great way to anchor your look together nicely.

Layering textures in your outfit not only works well for the colder months, but it adds a rustic yet refined elegance to the look – think tweed, plaid and heavier wools. Don’t be afraid to incorporate multiple patterns to the look, such as check, tartan and florals.

You can also add a wintry touch through a festive buttonhole.

Sharon Cousans | Chimney Formal Menswear www.chimneymenswear.co.uk/index.php 71

www.dearestlove.co.uk

https://lisajane-photography.com

LOVE IS IN THE HAIR I’ve seen some gorgeous pictures of messy buns and textured up dos, but I have straight hair in a long-bob style. Can I still get this look?

Textured up dos and messy buns are achievable for your hair type if you use the right products, prep the look and add additional hair for thickness and volume. To achieve the fullness of a messy bun, extra hair and padding are pretty much a must. Sometimes brides are not overly keen on this idea on their wedding day because they’re worried it will be noticeable. But as long as the colour match is good, it can be you and your hairstylist’s little secret!

As with any look, it’s essential to have a hair trial to get a feel of the stylist and plan the perfect look. Some hair types need more prep work than others to create ruffled and wavy hair, which you need as the base to build a gorgeous up do. It’s also important to remember when you’re looking for inspiration to pick photos of people with similar hair colour as texture shows up better in blonde or multi-tonal hair, and the same style on darker hair will look different.

Bernie Dickens | Hair by Bernie Dickens www.instagram.com/berniedickenshair

SHOWSTOPPING GOWNS I’ve bought a dress with no embellishments and now I’m worried it’s too plain for our vintage-style wedding. How can I add the wow factor?

I love a vintage-style dress that has no embellishments because it provides the ultimate-blank canvas and allows us to get creative. There are endless ways you can add your style to a bridal look to achieve the wow factor you’re after.

Work directly onto the dress itself while adding embellishments such as beading, pearls, sparkles, colour and even hand-embroidered touches. You can add a special touch by weaving in personal notes, including your names, wedding date, lyrics or symbols of your love story. Make sure to add anything that means something special to you, whether romantic, quirky or out there – it’s all about letting your personality shine through.

Or, why not opt for a two-in-one look by choosing an additional piece to add to the dress, such as a hand-embroidered silk ribbon, an embellished or embroidered veil, bridal cape, overdress or skirt that can give that wow factor during the ceremony. These added extras can then be whipped off in the evening.

Sophie Tyler | A Lover’s Thread | www.aloversthread.com 72

HOT

EXPERT ADVICE

TOPIC Top advice for the perfect wedding

A DAY TO REMEMBER

https://emilyrosephotography.co.uk

We’ve just started planning our festival-themed wedding for next summer, but we’re not sure where to start. How we can make our vision come to life?

First things first, think about what you want the wedding to look and feel like on the day.

Take the time to write down ideas and create a moodboard with different venues, props, outfits, entertainment, décor and catering options to bring the theme to life. This will help you understand what’s most important to you both and help you stick to a budget.

The next stage is to find the perfect venue and get that booked. Finding the right location is a major factor when creating your dream-wedding look, so make sure to visit lots of properties with the moodboard to show venues what you have in mind.

It’s then time to find other vendors, booking a stylist like myself for the day is a big must and it’s important to find a company that’s created events that you love the look of. Book the supplier right at the beginning of your planning journey because the team will work hard to not only save you time, but sometimes save you money.

Tichea Brade | Carmela Wedding & Events www.carmelaweddings.co.uk

BLOOMING MARVELLOUS I’m so excited about our winter wedding, but I hate the thought of parting with my flowers. Is there anything you can suggest to help?

Resin preservation is the perfect way to save your beautiful-wedding flowers and turn them into keepsakes to treasure for years to come. Resin has a crystal clear and glass-like finish, which offers endless possibilities when it comes to preserving florals.

The process involves drying the blooms in a special way that retains their original shape and vibrancy; it’s then preserved inside resin and deep-casting moulds.

Customers can choose from various shapes and sizes when it comes to moulds; this includes hearts, blocks, arches, tea light holders, letters, numbers and more.

I work very closely with my clients from the moment they book my service to ensure they receive the best possible outcome. The result is your very own piece of art, which allows you to remember the special day for years to come!

Samantha Oakes | SO Resin Ltd www.soresin.com

THE GREAT OUTDOORS My fiancé and I have just started looking for our dream wedding venue, and we’d like to get married outside. What should we keep in mind before booking a property?

Take in the full surroundings of the area for your day and imagine how you’d like your wedding photos to be. A wedding is so much more than just a marquee or tipi, and you’ll want people to remember the day for years to come.

Think about how the venue will fit your theme and how you can put your own stamp on the spaces – you don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve a dream day. Take into consideration things that have stood out at other weddings or features that have put you off specific venues. Here are a few things to keep in mind... ❤ Will there be ample car parking that’s free of charge? ❤ Do you have to use certain suppliers? ❤ Does the venue have a blank canvas to achieve everything you have in mind?

Claire Hill | Hill Brothers Events www.facebook.com/HIllbrothersevents 73

Personalised Wedding Gifts Memorable presents for bride and groom

WEDDING HAIR SPECIALIST WITH 28 YEARS EXPERIENCE

berniecarr2002@gmail.com 07729 375512 Instagram & Facebook @berniedickenshair W W W. FA R R A R - TA N N E R . C O . U K

Photography by @sarah_j_scottphotography

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GROOMS’ NEWS

It ’s all about meee

KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF

For really special wedding gifts, The Sock Butler – sister company to Sockshop – provides a delivery of new socks every month straight to your door! The service offers a choice of one, two or three pairs per month and the opportunity to select from different categories e.g. Classic, Fashion, Sporty and Fun. Ideal for updating sock drawers, subscriptions gifts available include one month, six or 12.

Brands include Glenmuir, Pringle, SockShop, WildFeet and Jeff Banks and all the socks in the subscription sock boxes are either cotton or bamboo-based for a luxury feel. For an extra special touch, there is an option to personalise your socks with embroidered initials – perfect for the big day and beyond!

Check out https://thesockbutler.co.uk

Wedding planning, especially after the last year, can be a stressful experience and if you’re feeling overwhelmed check out this new series of books: Meee in a minute.

Meee in a minute offers 60 ways to improve your life in 60 seconds with a collection of life hacks, advice, insights, science, stories, short exercises, quotes and more that can help you improve your life.

The Family edition is a book bursting with useful tips and strategies to appreciate, engage with, enjoy, connect and reconnect with your family – essential for your wedding planning and marriage journey.

Each book is £8 including delivery, visit: www.meeebooks.com

Grooms’ NEWS All the latest best buys and product launches

SCOTTISH FLARE

Isle of Harris Distillery has launched made to order jackets in collaboration with renowned Scottish designer Judy R Clark.

Isle of Harris Distillery along with, Harris Tweed Hebrides, the Harris Tweed Authority and the islands’ education services, worked closely with schools across the island to challenge the children to design a new Isle of Harris Distillery tweed whilst learning more about the history of tweed cloth. The winner of the competition was 14-year-old Scott Murray from Sir E. Scott School in the Isle of Harris. Scott’s winning design was woven in consultation with Judy R Clark to create this unique special cloth.

Each jacket is made using specially woven Isle of Harris Distillery Harris Tweed combined with luxurious teal velvet collars embroidered in with rose gold threads. The linings are inspired by the Hebridean seas finished with rose copper buttons and contrasting sea-blue buttonholes.

Priced £660 (includes UK postage), visit https://harrisdistillery.com

FROM THE ART

SENTIMENTAL ACCESSORIES

Merci Maman has unveiled its new Men’s Collection! The new seven piece collection features four bracelets and three necklaces, popular favourites include the Personalised Dog Tag Necklace (£89), and the Unity Bracelet (£89).

The collection also introduces new leather styles for the first time and seven new gem stones, including tiger’s eye and aquamarine.

Each piece is available in 925 sterling silver or 18k gold plated, and can be complimentary hand-engraved with special names, dates or messages making the collection perfect for big-day gifting.

Check out www.mercimamanboutique.com

Desenio helps you find the perfect gift for every groom’s party member; from the office and the home to personalised prints, find something for every personality. Perfect for weddings, personalising your print with names, dates and places offers that extra special touch.

If you can’t find the words to explain how you feel, quotation art prints are a beautiful way to express love, gratitude, or humour towards those you love most. Alternatively, choose from sports or music icons, or if you’re not sure which prints would suit their taste best, or if you’re short on time with last-minute wedding planning, Desenio Gift Cards are a great choice!

Check out https://desenio.co.uk 75

h s i t i r B BEST OF

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

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www.next.co.uk

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

GROOMS’ FASHION

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ted Baker ‘Derby’, £100, www.shoeaholics.com 77

Love is in the air

County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey

I

can’t quite believe that my wedding is only 10 months away! The time is going by so fast, and it still feels like we have so much left to plan!

As some of you may know, within the first few months of being engaged we’d booked our venue, photographer and caterer and were on the lookout for the rest of our suppliers.

With the pandemic pushing most weddings back in to 2022, we found that a lot of companies we were interested in booking weren’t available. Not to be defeated, we carried on searching knowing it was best to get everything sorted as early as possible.

My fiancé, Dave, and I are enjoying the process, but it can feel slightly overwhelming at times. With such a big family and many coming from abroad, we’ve found it difficult trying to keep everyone happy while also maintaining our original budget, but we’re still super excited to see what the day will look like.

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

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be able to make suggestions and help us bring our vision to life.

Whilst looking through social media, I happened to come across a stunning, oversized bouquet that was exactly what I wanted. I looked up the company and found they were based just five minutes from our wedding venue – I thought it was fate! The florist had a range of pre-made packages that suited our needs perfectly. We checked the company’s reviews online, confirmed availability for our day and discussed our needs. The team were fantastic and even suggested ways of helping us save money, which we really appreciated.

We booked bouquets, buttonholes, pew ends, centrepieces and an arrangement for the top table, which we’re excited to see. As we were in lockdown at the time, we were unable to meet our florist in person, so when restrictions lifted slightly we travelled to meet them at a wedding fair. Being able to discuss our vision in person made us feel confident about our decision, and I’d definitely recommend meeting face-to-face if possible.

DRESSED TO IMPRESS After being engaged for a few months, I decided to give in to my mum’s nagging and go dress shopping. I’m short, curvy and very selfconscious, so I was dreading trying on gowns!

We visited our local boutique, and since I had no idea of what style I wanted, I must admit I felt quite overwhelmed. I started with a fishtail, which I liked the look of, but it just didn’t feel like me; I also felt like I couldn’t sit down without bursting out of it! I quickly moved onto an A-line silhouette. The second gown I tried on was one I’d seen online and loved. It had three-quarterlength sleeves, a detailed bodice, a plunging neckline and lots of lace. On paper, this sounds like everything I didn’t want in a dress, but strangely enough, it turned out to be the one.

I tried on a few different options afterwards (mainly for fun), but I found fault in all of them

and always came back to my dress. It needs some alterations as it’s slightly too big, but I purchased it there and then. I would share a picture with you all, but Dave reads this and is (annoyingly) traditional so is against seeing the dress before the big day!

One thing I didn’t anticipate was how I would feel after purchasing it. I always thought I’d feel over the moon, but instead, I felt quite panicked. Not because I didn’t love the dress, but after years of writing about weddings, I felt so much pressure to have this overcome-withemotion moment when wearing the one for the first time, that I started to question if I’d made the right decision. I’ve since come to realise that everyone is different, and I absolutely adore my dress whether I cried or not. I’ve spoken to a few of my married friends, and some had similar experiences, which was reassuring to hear! My advice to any bride-to-be is to go with your gut, don’t panic about how you should be feeling or what you should be wearing, do what makes you happy!

Make sure you check in next issue to hear all about our engagement shoot and my search for a hair and make-up artist.

Melissa. x

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

BRIDE’S DIARY

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

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

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

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

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

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

The chalkboard signage trend is here to stay!

I, for one, adore it and am thinking of using one as our welcome sign.

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

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

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A CLICK AWAY FROM YOUR PERFECT DAY

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

ENTERTAINMENT

Blame it on the boogie

A B

Your A-to-Z guide to wedding entertainment

B IS FOR BALLROOM DANCING For a first dance with a difference, book yourselves some lessons and perform a choreographed routine to surprise your guests.

A IS FOR ANIMALS Calling all animal lovers! Make your wedding memorable by having animals throughout the day – doves, alpacas, rabbits and horses are great options!

C

D

E

D IS FOR DJ We recommend meeting with your DJ prior to the big day, whether that be face-to-face or virtually.

They’ll need to understand your musical tastes and your guest list to get a feel for the floor-fillers needed. Why not send out a request form with your RSVPs to guarantee a popular playlist?

We suggest, www.wonderland-events.co.uk

F

C IS FOR CARICATURIST Capture some hilarious drawings of your guests with a caricaturist, a perfect way to break the ice and create the perfect memento.

E IS FOR EXTRAS Whether it be a basket of blankets so guests can chill out and chat in your venue’s gardens when the sun goes down, or a box of flip flops to soothe those dancing feet, your loved ones will appreciate any added extras to keep them comfortable.

F IS FOR FIREWORKS End the night with a bang with a spectacular firework display! What could be more romantic than watching the sky sparkle and light up with loved ones?

We suggest, www.alchemyweddingfireworks.co.uk

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GJ

G IS FOR GLITTER BAR You can never go wrong with a dab of sparkle. Add a festival-vibe to your celebrations with a glitter bar for blinged-up beards and glistening cheekbones.

I K L

J IS FOR JAZZ Set a stylish atmosphere and hire a jazz company to play some romantic songs throughout the day.

We suggest, www.annelisemolloy.com

I IS FOR INFLATABLES Bring out your inner child with some inflatables! You and your guests are guaranteed to have fun and just think of the exciting and crazy photos that will be captured.

L IS FOR LITTLE ONES Keep your mini guests occupied all day with a craft table, or enlist the help of a professional wedding creche company to ensure they’re all safe and having a whale of a time with a whole parade of super-fun activities.

N

K IS FOR KARAOKE Capture some brilliant moments in the evening with some karaoke – the perfect way to get guests mingling after a few drinks.

N IS FOR NOSTALGIA Make the most of your venue’s grounds and lay out some vintage garden games such as croquet, giant Jenga and hoopla. Your guests will have so much fun while they wait for the wedding breakfast, they’ll barely notice their tummies rumble.

O

O IS FOR OUTDOOR GAMES Connect4, hook-a-duck and crazy golf are all classic outdoor games that kids and adults alike will enjoy on the big day.

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H

H IS FOR HARP Harp music at a wedding is the ultimate romantic touch that offers relaxing background music.

M

M IS FOR MAGICIAN There’s a reason why magic has been popular throughout the years, magicians can capture audiences of all ages and create astonishing shows that will be a talking point long after the dancefloor has cleared.

P

P IS FOR PHOTO BOOTH Photo booths with props are a fantastic way to capture fun and goofy photos of all your guests. Not only do the images create a hilarious guest book to treasure for years to come, but loved ones can keep the images as a reminder of the day.

We suggest, https://enchantedmagicmirror.co.uk

S Q R T Q IS FOR QUIZ Add some fun table quizzes to create some friendly competition between guests – the perfect ice-breaker.

U

T IS FOR TRIBUTE BAND If you both have a favourite band, why not have a tribute band play on the day? Celebrate to your favourite songs while dancing the night away.

U IS FOR UNIQUE Personalise your day by filling it with what you love. Fans of RuPaul’s Drag Race? Why not hire a drag performer to make a surprise appearance.

If you love to sing, prepare a super-romantic surprise performance for your new husband or wife. Perhaps, you’re a member of a choir – can you organise for them to sing at your ceremony?

All images courtesy of www.gettyimages.co.uk

S IS FOR STRINGS Nothing creates a more romantic atmosphere during the day quite like a violin, cello or a bass – these are the perfect additions to ceremonies and receptions.

We suggest, www.hayleypomfrett.com

R IS FOR ROOTS Embrace your heritage with a traditional dance routine or musical act.

W

X V V IS FOR VIDEOS Make your day personal and share some home videos with friends and family. What could be a better way to highlight your journey together?

ENTERTAINMENT

W IS FOR WAITERS Bring spontaneity and excitement to the wedding with singing waiters – the ultimate surprise that will shock guests and create a fun, light-hearted atmosphere.

X IS FOR X-PERTS Ok, we cheated here! But in all seriousness, your professional entertainers are experts in their field. Be sure to tap into their wealth of knowledge and experience with a pre-wedding meeting. Nobody knows how to fill a dancefloor like they do.

We suggest, https://toptierbrass.com

Y

Y IS FOR YAKETY-YAK If your guest list is filled with folk who haven’t seen each other for years, sometimes less is more. They’ll love time to catch up, so consider periods of downtime or chill-out zones away from all the action.

Z

Z IS FOR ZZZ Time for bed, but no need to let the evening fizzle out. Be sent off in style with a sparkler guard of honour as you bid farewell.

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WIN

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

C

rillon Le Brave is nestled within a village eponymous of the Vaucluse region, and offers guests the chance to explore the picture-perfect Provençal countryside, historical nearby towns, and is just a stone’s throw away from some of the most sought-after vineyards in France.

The hotel boasts 34 newly refurbished rooms and suites, an inviting reception area, gorgeous public spaces and idyllic outdoor pool overlooking surrounding vineyards and countryside. The hotel has been exquisitely presented with the help of French designer and decorator Charles Zana.

Since it’s reopening in May 2021, the hotel has introduced a number of new experiences, a new yoga retreat as well as a refreshed culinary offering from new head chef Adrien Brunet ‒ who will be presenting new menus with locally sourced delicacies. The Spa des Ecuries is positioned

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

under imposing arches of the former vaulted stone stables from the 18th century. With three treatment rooms, including one double, the spa combines gentle and effective approaches dedicated to enhancing overall wellbeing. Guests can take advantage of the holistic treatment techniques of Bamford which are completely tailored to each guest’s needs.

Crillon le Brave encourages guests to switch off and enjoy the art of taking things slow: amble around the village, lounge by the pool, rejuvenate in the spa and indulge in exquisite food.

For those looking to explore the region’s rich culture and enjoy a quiet French escape, this five-star hotel is the perfect destination for a postpandemic home away from home holiday and honeymoon.

Visit www.crillonlebrave.com, email reservations@crillonlebrave.com or call + 33 4 90 65 61 61.

HOW TO ENTER: For your chance to win, simply answer the following question: What is the name of the new head chef?

Enter online at yourhertsbeds.wedding

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

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

@cwm_wedding

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County Wedding Magazines

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

News

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

HOME SCOTTISH BORDERS

A stunning rural hideaway set in Minto in the Scottish Borders, Lilylaw, newly launched with Crabtree & Crabtree, provides the most idyllic location for a romantic honeymoon. It boasts spectacular views and staying guests also get unique access to Fatlips Castle, an iconic Pele tower situated on the estate at the top of Minto Crags.

Located on a private track, this former gamekeeper’s cottage is in an undisturbed and completely serene spot, ideal for those looking to escape to the countryside.

The charming period property has been fully renovated into a gorgeous, romantic one-bedroom bijoux bolthole comprising an open-plan bedroom and living area and feature roll top bath with woodland views.

Based on a self-catering basis, seven nights in summer available through Crabtree & Crabtree is from £950. To book, visit www.crabtreeandcrabtree.com or call 01573 226 711.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

The Torridon invites newlyweds to reconnect during a minimoon experience in the Scottish Highlands.

During the Winter Minimoon experience, newlyweds can enjoy the snowcapped landscapes and starry night skies of the Highlands, feasting on the best seasonal produce and rejoicing in two nights of rejuvenating sleep.

Led by the Torridon Outdoors experts, a crisp full day guided walk along the munros and woodlands surrounding the hotel, is followed by drinks in front of the crackling fire and a private whisky tasting led by the dedicated team in The Torridon’s Whisky Bar. Couples can indulge in a four-course set menu crafted by head chef Paul Green. Set in the 1887 Restaurant it will pair dishes sourced from the region’s best winter ingredients and local game from The Torridon Estate with exquisite wines.

Lovebirds can add a bespoke star-gazing experience to their minimoon package, and join astronomer Stephen Mackintosh for a three-course meal and an excursion across the Highlands, revealing a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Arcturus constellation.

A Winter Minimoon complete with: two-night B&B in a Deluxe room, tasting menu, whisky tasting, full day guided walk, champagne, chocolates and flowers is £1,520. Add the Star-gazing Experience between Nov-Mar for an additional £530, including a three-course dinner with astronomer Stephen Mackintosh.

Find out more about The Torridon at www.thetorridon.com or call on 01445 791 242.

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CHANNEL ISLANDS

The Blonde Hedgehog, located in Alderney, is a collection of 18th-century buildings lovingly restored to be a petite boutique Georgian retreat.

Renovated from a local pub and an elegant townhouse, it’s understated luxury at its best; the modern interior design complements the original Georgian features. With just a small number of rooms and suites, it’s intimate and sophisticated without losing any of its charm.

Alderney is perfect for honeymooners looking for relaxation, romance and adventure; an island for exploring and seeing nature’s wonders, couples can experience sea kayaking, boat trips, rockpooling and fishing. It’s easily walked or cycled around in a day – definitely one of the best ways to see the entire island.

Available through Fish&Pips from £230 per night on a B&B basis, visit www.fishandpips.co.uk or call 01306 264 005.

HONEYMOON NEWS

AWAY GREECE

Costa Navarino, the ultimate five-star sustainability-led travel destination in Messinia on the under-the-radar Peloponnese peninsula in Greece, is an idyllic location for honeymoons. Perched on the unspoiled and breathtaking coastline, overlooking the Ionian Sea, it provides newlyweds with the perfect romantic shorthaul destination post-vows.

A sophisticated setting, surrounded by verdant land and a sparkling seascape, Messinia has quaint town halls, beautiful beaches and offers hilltop exploration.

Costa Navarino is one of the few beachfront mixed-use developments in the Mediterranean and includes: luxury hotels, freehold residences, a world-famous Anazoe spa, 21 restaurants and bars, sports facilities and two signature golf courses ‒ meaning guests and newlyweds never have to leave!

For more information visit www.costanavarino.com

MAJORCA

Perfect for pre- or post-wedding getaways, Es Racó d’Artà is a wellness retreat that’s recently joined the TemptingPlaces hotel label. A real gem in the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean, this new holistic retreat is located next to the historic town of Artà, on the eastern part of the island. Outstretched in the valley, its nearly 200 acres encompass an authentic 13th-century stone farmhouse, several buildings, almond, fig and olive trees, local fruit trees as well as 14 acres of grapevines.

It’s here, within this peaceful environment, that this newly-opened property invites its guests to connect with nature and lift themselves beyond their well-being.

Seamless swimming pools, jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, relaxation and meditation areas offer newlyweds a unique experience, where the notion of time and space disappears.

Make sure to try a Watsu treatment, performed in the original treatment pool – this aquatic massage creates optimal conditions to enter a state of deep relaxation through the union of water and shiatsu, aiming to release the everyday tensions ‒ bliss!

Visit www.temptingplaces.com

ITALY

AMERICA

Hotel Bel-Air, possibly one of the most romantic hotels in the world, has launched an outdoor dining experience, Bel-Air Under the Stars. Guests can cosy up beside their own private firepit while sipping wine, toasting marshmallows and tucking into Wolfgang Puck snacks.

Many Hollywood love stories have played out at this iconic hotel in its 75-year history, and it’s easy to see why stars including Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly have fallen for its romantic allure. Set within the blissful Canyon landscape, and away from the LA noise, this private and elegant hotel is a haven in Bel-Air and renowned for its 12 acres of winding, tropical greenery surrounding the beloved Swan Lake, filled with flowers that bloom all year round and home to a 100-year-old sycamore tree. It has witnessed some of the most incredible, star-studded and wildly romantic weddings imaginable, all watched over with loving grace by its swans. What’s more, one of the hotel’s most famous guests, Grace Kelly, penned a number of love letters to her then partner Oleg Cassani during her time staying there while she was filming Country Girl. What better honeymoon destination truly epitomises love and romance?

Rooms start from $695, visit www.dorchestercollection.com

Room Mate Hotels, the international hotel chain, has opened Hotel Room Mate Filippo and Gran Filippo Apartments in Rome.

Located 500 metres from the emblematic Spanish Steps and a ten-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain, the hotel and the apartments are designed by interior designer Tomas Alía, who was inspired by the refined aesthetics of the 1940s.

The hotel has 30 rooms divided into three categories: superior, deluxe and executive, its imposing façade stands out with elegant and subtle flat pilasters and striking lighting that creates a chandelier effect throughout the street acting as a magnet to passers-by.

The lobby features a forest of sculptural, three-dimensional palm trees, complete with a dome supported by granite columns. The two interior courtyards - the two lungs of the building - are arranged with sienna- and celadon-colored lattices while the rest of the common areas are divided into a large meeting room with a library effect and the breakfast room, decorated with modulations in marble, gilded metals and geometric shapes.

The rooms, several of which have terraces, have surprising decorations, all inspired by the refined, well-travelled and cultured aesthetics of the 1940s Check out https://room-matehotels.com/gb/ 87

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

Gal Oya Lodge

A unique eco lodge nestled in 20 acres of private jungle located adjacent to Gal Oya National Park. The design concept has been created in harmony with its surroundings and natural features, with an integrated effort to minimise impact on the natural environment, support the local community and to pro-actively engage in wildlife research and protection.

Eco & Sustainability Credentials: Water is sourced from a deep bore well on the lodge’s land, zero plastic policy, wherever possible ingredients are sourced locally and organically, building supplies

Ulagalla

This hotel features a 150-year-old mansion at its centre with 20 private ecologically built villas spread across 58 acres of lush landscape. Two sparkling reservoirs, paddy fields and lily ponds surround the ancestral estate that was once of Anuradhapura nobility.

Part of Uga Escapes, it has been awarded with the highly soughtafter Travelife Gold certification for its pioneering efforts to promote sustainability in tourism.

Eco & Sustainability Credentials: Pioneering initiatives to minimise

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were all local materials, guests are invited to sponsor and take part in re-planting of native species on land previously cleared for farming, and there is much more being done to help local employment and the community.

Rates: Three nights at Gal Oya Lodge starts from £1,040 (double room, full-board basis including experiences). A 14-night bespoke itinerary starts from £6,995pp (price based on two adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half- and full-board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur. Excludes flights). environmental impact, improving the economic conditions of people living in and around the boutiques, protecting human rights and fair labour practices, safeguarding animal welfare and bio-diversity for future generations. Ulagalla has been expertly designed to be environmentally friendly and with a commitment to renewable energy.

Rates: Three nights at Ulagalla starts from £1,810 (double room, B&B basis including experiences). A 14-night bespoke itinerary starts from £6,995pp (price based on two adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half- and full-board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur. Excludes flights).

HONEYMOONS

Santani Resort & Spa

Few resorts in the world can match Santani’s serene view on an undulating hillside to the north east of Kandy. Channeling the concept of intelligent luxury where nature is king and service is everything, you can truly escape the world here.

Eco & Sustainability Credentials: Santani has been designed in such a way so that neither air-conditioning nor heating is required reducing energy consumption by about 70%. Most of the buildings are constructed on stilts that allows for natural thermal flow to cool the rooms and this structure also ensures there is minimal contact with the earth below. The whole spa is built underground which provides natural cooling too – almost 80% of the wood used for both structural elements and furniture is recycled.

Rates: Three nights at Santani Resort & Spa starts from £2,660 (double room, half-board basis including wellness package and experiences). A 14-night bespoke itinerary starts from £6,995pp (price based on two adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half- and full-board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur. Excludes flights).

Kalundewa Retreat

An eco-retreat tucked away in a lush 100 acres in Dambulla drawing its beauty from the mystic Kalundewa Mountain range. The isolated farming community contribute to the hotel resulting in a handful of eco-friendly dwellings to minimise human impact on the intricate ecosystems that flourish in the forest, lakes and waterway.

Eco & Sustainability Credentials: The retreat blends both agriculture and tourism, and contributes to the welfare of its neighbouring rural farming community. Its vision is to go 100% organic with all cultivation processes. Currently 100% of the electricity consumed is generated by solar panels. Irrigation is via restored waterways and windmill-pumped ground water, and the natural well feeds spring water into the main pool.

Rates: Three nights at Kalundewa Retreat starts from £1,850 (double room, full-board basis including experiences). A 14-night bespoke itinerary starts from £6,995pp (price based on two adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half- and full-board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur.

Excludes flights).

Leopard Trails

This bespoke, luxury, tented safari operates within the buffer zones of both Wilpattu and Yala National Parks with the aim of minimising its impact on the environment. Its existence is to showcase a true wilderness experience but prioritise above all else, the protection of nature.

Eco & Sustainability Credentials: Leopard Trails works hand in hand with the local community with campsite staff and drivers handpicked from the local community; fruit, vegetables, meat, seafood and other provisions are sourced from local suppliers and, where possible, equipment is manufactured and maintained within the local area. The team actively discourage the use of plastic water bottles and only use reusable stainless steel thermos flasks. Many rangers are either qualified in eco matters or have been responsible for implementing award-winning ecotourism and sustainability initiatives.

Rates: Three nights at Leopard Trails starts from £2,660 (double room, full board-basis including experiences). A 14-night bespoke itinerary starts from £6,995pp (price based on two adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half- and full-board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur.

Excludes flights).

All properties can be booked as part of a tailor-made holiday to Sri Lanka with Sri Lanka Bespoke: www.srilanka-bespoke.com 89

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