23 minute read
PERFECTLY PERSONAL
We chose to have our ceremony at the Old Marylebone Town Hall. We loved the grand entrance and the incredibly friendly staff.
We gave our guests personalised face masks as wedding favours. We also sourced individually packaged confetti, which was particularly important because of COVID-19. I wore a Jonathan Simkhai tie-waist crepe jumpsuit with Nicholas Kirkwood ballerina shoes, while Jon looked dashing in a Prada suit. Unfortunately because of coronavirus restrictions, we weren’t able to have bridesmaids or groomsmen.
We were so excited and overwhelmed by all the love and effort made by our family and friends. We were also happy that our second wedding attempt of the year was successful!
It was amazing that everyone was able to make it – including my parents from Dubai and Jon’s parents and brother from Barcelona. We had lots of fantastic speeches, which made it so special. On the day, make sure you enjoy the moment and spend some time alone together to take it all in and appreciate it.
CLOSING CREDITS
Ceremony venue | www.adaytoremember.london/old-marylebone-town-hall Reception venue, catering and cake | www.orrery-restaurant.co.uk Photographer | www.terryliphotography.com Bride’s outfit | Jonathan Simkhai | www.net-a-porter.com Bride’s shoes | www.nicholaskirkwood.com Make-up | https://joyceconnormakeup.co.uk Menswear | www.prada.com Flowers | www.realflowers.co.uk Confetti | www.confettidirect.co.uk
BEST DAY EVER
Hannah Faulder rounds up the capital’s top entertainment acts
Planning a wedding is hard work – especially as not many people have experience of organising such a large-scale event. My husband and I found entertainment one of the toughest things to tick off the wedding to-do list; we felt the pressure of keeping all of our family and friends happy. If you feel the same, don’t worry! We’ve selected some of the best entertainment acts in London for you to check out. Remember, your guests are there to celebrate you as a couple – so choose what you love. If you’re enjoying yourself, everyone else will!
IT’S A CELEBRATION! Boujee Music promises that your wedding can be the oncein-a-lifetime celebration that you’ve always dreamed of! From showstopping live bands to intimate ceremony music, there are options for every moment. The musicians don’t just play – they perform, entertain and interact – so your guests won’t be able to stop themselves from getting involved! The company also love to personalise your music, fi lling the setlist with your favourite songs and learning your fi rst dance. They’ll even take care of all logistics and equipment so you can just relax and enjoy!
SING IT OUT London Community Gospel Choir has sung for royalty, prime ministers, celebrities and VIPs around the world, as well as performing with the likes of Madonna, The 1975 and Tom Jones – now it’s time for them to bring their world-class voices to your big day!
Kaylin Cain | London Community Gospel Choir https://lcgc.org.uk
CAPTURE IT There’s no denying that a photo booth or selfi e mirror will get your guests in the party spirit. Who doesn’t love a curly wig and novelty sunglasses? Best of all, the images make a great alternative guest book.
Check out… www.facebook.com/mirrormeuk
LITTLE ONES On the most special day of your life, The Little Wedding Creche can be there to provide a fun and safe environment for your youngest guests. During the ceremony, meal and speeches, little ones can get restless, which is where this professional childcare service comes in to ensure everyone has a great day.
Kimberley Bhagat | The Little Wedding Creche www.littleweddingcreche.co.uk
www.fi onakellyphotography.com
Tim Sentance | Boujee Music | https://boujeemusic.com
CLASSIC ROMANCE A string quartet is a classic big-day accompaniment – and we can see why. The music creates a perfectly serene atmosphere, and with many quartets now performing modern tunes in a classic style, you can put your own stamp on proceedings too.
HOLE IN ONE Are you a golf-lover? Then bring it to your big day with a weddingthemed crazy golf course. Perfect for a summer’s afternoon.
Check out… www.pureminigolf.co.uk
DANCE OFF! The first dance is something your guests will be looking forward to, so why not wow them with a rehearsed number? Whether you just want to look comfortable and coordinated or you want a full-scale flash mob, dance lessons can help you be the entertainment.
Check out… www.startthedance.co.uk
ONE-STOP SHOP Wondering how to make your wedding unforgettable? Choosing the right entertainment is the answer. Entertainment Nation provide only the highest quality performers to suit your theme and capture the spirit of your day. No matter what incredible London venue you choose, the company can offer an act to complement your vision. Expert entertainment advisors are on hand to begin the search for your dream performer.
Alice Winstone | Entertainment Nation www.entertainment-nation.co.uk
FURRY FRIENDS You want to make sure every member of the family is looked after, which is where a pet-chaperone service comes in, allowing your pet to play a part in the celebrations. Many companies will liaise with your venue and photographer to help you get family memories to treasure – while taking the pressure off you to look after your four-legged friend.
Check out… http://walkiesatweddings.co.uk
PICTURE IT Cartoonist Ollie Randall attends weddings, much like a photographer, and produces a sketchbook of quirky, detailed cartoons of you and your loved ones – providing you with a set of unique souvenirs of the big day.
Your bespoke chair cover and venue decoration hire.
07925 797 732 zioraenterprise@gmail.com www.facebook.com/chaircoversbyziora www.instagram.com/ziora_e
OYSTER & CAVIAR MEISTER
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We provide traditionally dressed mobile oyster shuckers to your party or event. We source the finest quality Oysters and mingle amongst your guest serving this food of Kings! Oyster Meister brings a unique flavour to your party that will not be forgotten soon !.... We provide traditionally dressed mobile oyster shuckers to your party or event. We source the finest quality Oysters and mingle amongst your guest serving this food of Kings! Oyster Meister We provide traditionally dressed mobile oyster shuckers and caviar girls to your party or event. We source the finest quality oysters and caviar and mingle amongst your guest serving these foods 07583 719107 0208 747 8981 brings a unique flavour to your party that will not be forgotten soon !.... of Kings! Oyster Meister brings a unique flavour to your party that will not be forgotten soon !.... www.oystermeister.com 07583 719107 0208 747 8981 www.oystermeister.com
Your search ends here
Blow your guests away by choosing from our ‘All Killer, No Filler’ roster of exclusive live bands & musicians!
Are you wading therough a sea of identical-sounding bands? Don’t worry, Boujee Music is here to help!
Live music personal to you
Make unforgettable memories with live performances of your special songs.
Every detail taken care of
Relax and enjoy your wedding day while we handle everything from sound & lighting to timings & logistics.
With Boujee Music, you’ll be counting down to an incredible wedding celebration... CLICK HERE to check availability now!
“THANK YOU SO MUCH for being so incredible at our wedding... everyone was dancing all night!” - Adam & Kierra, Jun 2018 @ Anne of Cleves Barn “If I did it all again, you’d be the first thing I’d book.” - Taner & Jey, Oct 2019 @ Braxted Park
BESPOKE TRAINERS
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER No wedding is complete without some premium entertainment, and Earcandy aim to provide the perfect acts to make your day even more special. Its award-winning live bands and DJs are all hand-picked from the music industry, promising to make an impression with their top performances. Having shared stages with the likes of Sir Elton John and Stevie Wonder, Earcandy acts cater for everyone’s tastes.
Ben Rogers | Earcandy Entertainment https://earcandylive.co.uk
LET IT SPARKLE No one is too grown up to have their face painted! Layer up the colour and glitter for that festival vibe, and don’t forget to let the kids have a go too.
SURPRISE, SURPRISE! A team of waiting staff bursting into song after serving your soup is going to leave a lasting impression! Soon, everyone will be joining in and getting in the party spirit.
Check out… www.thesingingwaitermasters.co.uk
SPARKS FLY Is there anything more romantic that standing with your loved one watching colourful fi reworks against the night sky? It will ensure you start married life with a bang.
Check out… www.theglitterbox.co.uk Check out… www.fi reworkscrazy.co.uk
FEELING LUCKY? Get the Vegas vibes by hiring a fun casino for your big day. Guaranteed to get your loved ones chatting, you can take a spin on roulette or try your hand at poker.
We are Chelsea’s hidden secret. Buckleigh suits,morning coats, evening tails and dinner suits are renowned for their top quality fabric. Formal Wear Hire | Bespoke Tailoring | Ladies and Gentlemens Alterations
T: 020 7730 0770 | www.buckleighoflondon.com | info@buckleighoflondon.com 83 Lower Sloane Street, Chelsea, London SW1W 8DA
Katherine Elizabeth Millinery, couture designer. Perfect for weddings, brides, mother of the bride or the racing seasons. Please contact katherine@katherineelizabethhats.com www.katherineelizabethmillinery.com PERFECT FOR FASHIONABLE BRIDAL SHOWERS BY THE MILLINERY HOUSE EVENTS, Please contact events@katherineelizabethhats.com www.millineryhouseevents.com
Creative couture Hat Making Events FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT 020 31729768 Katherine Elizabeth Millinery, couture designer. Perfect for weddings, brides, mother of the bride or the racing seasons. Please contact katherine@katherineelizabethhats.com www.katherineelizabethmillinery.com
For further wed-spiration and to keep up to date with the latest news and trends check out our County Wedding Magazines’ Facebook page
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
Oh and don’t forget...
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DRESSING THE BRIDAL PARTY TREND REPORT
Outfi t inspiration for your entire bridal party
You’re not the only one who wants to look their best for your big day. We’ve rounded up some top advice from London’s experts in dressing your bridesmaids, mums and men.
GORGEOUS GROOMSMEN
“Some trends remain similar to what we experienced before the pandemic, with timeless blue still the prevailing choice. The most popular option for the spring and summer is navy or sky blue with a contrasting grey waistcoat. The wedding party typically match the groom but without the waistcoat, so that the star of the show is easy to spot. Most grooms wish to re-wear the suit, therefore keeping the style fairly traditional. Those looking for a modern twist choose a doublebreasted jacket, peaked lapels, a rounded waistcoat or a cuff on the trousers. With customisations, the world is your oyster.” – Patrick Jungo, Edit Suits Co.
“When it comes to new colour trends, green is the most-requested shade. We believe this is because of the uncertainty and limitations on weddings; there are so many different tones that it can suit anything from a relaxed wedding in an olive hue, a rustic green tweed or a more formal dark shade.” – Patrick Jungo, Edit Suits Co.
“I’m seeing a lot of bright and daring choices for menswear. Traditionally, the choice would have been black, navy, grey or perhaps cream. However, I’m now seeing liberatingly bold choices, for example, a corduroy terracotta-coloured tux fi nished with a brown tweed waistcoat and gold pocket watch. Or how about a grey tweed suit with thin strands of mustard running through it, teamed with a deep green waistcoat and mustard accessories?” – Kelly Richardson, Kelly Richardson Styling
“Looking at the spring/summer catwalks, there was a defi nite trend towards brighter colours. I think we will see more adventurous wedding suits in 2021, with a penchant for bold colours and checks. We’ve found that even if men don’t want to go all-out in a head-to-toe bright shade, they might opt instead for a splash of colour in the lining of their suit, buttons or buttonholes.” – Jake Allen, King & Allen
“While wedding dates keep moving and guest numbers have to change, low-key dresses have become the go-to choice. Our Heidi and Lilly wrap dresses have been super-popular as they give a very relaxed look. When it comes to accessories, we love a statement earring, and with weddings being postponed until winter, don’t forget a cover-up to keep the chill off!” – Sinclair Sellars, Maids to Measure
www.krisp.co.uk
www.krisp.co.uk www.krisp.co.uk
“The choice for bridesmaids has improved drastically. Ten years ago, dresses were all angelic and sweet, but I’m now seeing more catwalk infl uences merged into typical bridesmaids’ styles for a new and improved look. High-shine satin dresses are on the rise as they offer a beautiful contrast against the bride’s dress, and they come in an array of colours, necklines and lengths. You have the option of a spaghetti strap all the way through to a V-neck batwing dress with a tie waist.” – Kelly Richardson, Kelly Richardson Styling
“It’s important for dresses to not only fi t in with the couple’s vision for the day, but also ensure that the bridesmaids are happy with what has been picked for them. Fortunately, there are plenty of great designers providing gorgeous gowns: Dessy, Watters, Allure Bridal, TH&TH and Two Birds to name a few. Trends we have seen in the last six months are satin fabrics, off-the-shoulder necklines and halterneck dresses alongside cooler tones and embellishment.” – Zara Wakefi eld, Confetti Bridesmaid
www.confettibridesmaid.com “We’ve spotted a number of new trends for your best girls: ❤ Elasticated backs. There’s a lot of talk around sustainability, and customers are looking for dresses that they can wear again. An elasticated back means you don’t have to worry about the fi t in a year’s time. ❤ Embellished necklines. We’ve seen an increase in demand for gowns with bold necklines, from diamantes and rhinestones to pearls. We believe there’s a link between lockdown and a desire to make a statement in a postpandemic world. It also means you don’t have to buy a necklace! ❤Multiway dresses. This style gives you so many options, from a sexy off-theshoulder look to a wide strap that covers a bra. Many people go for this look as it’s fl attering on all shapes and sizes. ❤ Occasion jumpsuits. With options including wide chiffon trousers and embellished busts, we think this style will be big. Especially post-lockdown when we have all learned to appreciate comfort!” – Katarzyna Mazur, KRISP
“We’re seeing a desire to go all-out and dress up to the max! Sequins, rich dupion silks and cheerful fl oral prints are popular requests at the moment, alongside green in all shades. Emerald silk and gold brocade styles are selling fast, which we think represent a feeling of renewal and celebration. The pandemic has allowed people the space to really think about where they buy from. As we make our occasionwear in London, it’s great to see a strong desire to support British brands.” – Katya Wildman, Bombshell HQ
MUM’S THE WORD
www.bombshellhq.com | Photography Stuart Cass
“I’m seeing a lot of beautifully adorned, embellished and decorated bodices for mothers-of-the-bride. While it’s common for mums to go for a sophisticated look with small accents, we’re now starting to see more romantic looks coming through. Contemporary dresses are measuring just above the knee as opposed to the typical midi or maxi length. Colour-wise, look out for candy fl oss and pastel tones, as seen on spring/ summer runways from brands such as Giambattista Valli and Dior.” – Kelly Richardson, Kelly Richardson Styling
https://lalagebeaumont.com www.joyceyoungcollections.co.uk
“We don’t tend to follow trends. We believe in elegant designs, beautiful fabrics and classic styles with a twist. We make our outfi ts to measure, therefore everything can be modifi ed to suit the individual. We fi nd soft colours such as duck-egg blue and oyster pink are popular, but we also offer stronger colours to suit a bright summery palette. The beauty of a bespoke outfi t is that not only does it fi t perfectly, but it also gives more choice of colour and detail than buying off-the-peg.” – Joyce Young, Joyce Young Design Studios
“For headwear, large side sweep styles suit a taller person, and hats on bands are very on-trend. We also love small ’50s-style hats, which complete a vintage look while remaining contemporary. We have our own in-house milliner who designs bespoke hats for clients.” – Joyce Young, Joyce Young Design Studios
https://lalagebeaumont.com
“At the moment we’re seeing lots of happy, joyful colours. Customers are wanting to make a statement and celebrate the opportunity to dress up! For smaller weddings, we’ve found that mums are going quite relaxed and practical, whereas those who are waiting until restrictions have lifted are going for all-out glam!” – Lalage Beaumont, Lalage Beaumont Ltd
GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR EXPERTS Patrick Jungo | Edit Suits Co. | www.editsuits.com Jake Allen | King & Allen | www.kingandallen.co.uk Kelly Richardson | Kelly Richardson Styling | www.kellyrichardsonstyling.com Katarzyna Mazur | KRISP | www.krisp.co.uk Sinclair Sellars | Maids to Measure | www.maidstomeasure.com Zara Wakefi eld | Confetti Bridesmaid | www.confettibridesmaid.com Katya Wildman | Bombshell HQ | www.bombshellhq.com Lalage Beaumont | Lalage Beaumont Ltd | https://lalagebeaumont.com Joyce Young | Joyce Young Design Studios | www.joyceyoungcollections.co.uk
REGIONAL SHOOTModernBaroque
This collaborative shoot artfully fuses contemporary design with a historic London venue
Images courtesy of Gyan Gurung Photography
Inspired by the beauty and ambience of Baroque still-life paintings, this collaborative shoot was the brainchild of London wedding planner and stylist Martha Tobyn of Anemone, Royal Museum’s Greenwich and Gyan Gurung Photography. Steeped in history, the 17th-century Queen’s House was the perfect backdrop, with its original features, modern interiors and contemporary art.
“I wanted it to feel like the curated set up for a painting,” Martha explains. “It’s an artistic moment that we’ve just stepped into: a strategically placed plinth, a considered drape of fabric, an urn spilling with fl owers.” Layers of texture combined with a palette full of rich colours and luxe details brought this design to life. The tablescape is a particularly magical unity of classical and contemporary design; wild fl oral arrangements, textured linens, antique brass vessels and rustic crockery are juxtaposed with shiny gold fl atware, delicate stationery and chic glassware.
“When it came to bridal looks we wanted to inspire the contemporary London bride,” Martha explains. “For the less traditional, Charlie Brear has designed the sexy and stylish gold dress. Of course, the modern Baroque bride wouldn’t be without her statement jewellery and accessories: giant pearls, shiny gold and a more-is-more attitude.”
CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS SHOOT
Venue | www.rmg.co.uk Photography | https://gyangurung.com Planner and stylist | www.anemone-style.com Bridalwear | www.charliebrear.com Accessories | www.peacockandpearl.co.uk Hair and make-up | www.rachaeljohnson.co.uk Flowers | www.bloomologie.co.uk Cakes | www.instagram.com/cakena_ldn Stationery | www.eracalligraphy.com Furniture and tableware | www.yahire.com Linens | www.88events.com Lighting | www.slx.co.uk Models | @tanjawiding
The new Desigual x Monsieur Christian Lacroix Forever collection has launched, a 10th-anniversary collaboration inspired by the colour purple and Mediterranean nature and lifestyle. From lilac lavenders to blue violets, dresses ideal for attending weddings this summer are made from ecofriendly fabrics and include this dress of the season, pictured. It’s a short ruffled style with lavender and violet-printed flowers and something blue touches.
To shop, visit www.desigual.com/en_GB www.instagram.com/desigual #DesigualxMonsieurChristianLacroix
https://youtu.be/HCsHNwz4R5g
Editor loves
These cream organza, blush French lace and pastel blue French silk lace detachable collars make a great addition to any bridal or bridesmaids’ look. They’re from the new accessory collection from luxury bridal footwear designer Diane Hassall. To shop the selection that starts from just £25, visit https://dianehassall.com www.instagram.com/di_hassall This 18-carat gold morganite diamond ring, £2,500, is from the first wedding collection called Love and Commitment by Annoushka jewellery. To shop, visit www.annoushka.com/uk www.instagram.com/annoushkajewellery
Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals the latest bridal news, FASHIONfocusbuys and launches
Second time around
Bridal shoe experts Rainbow Cub are helping brides-to-be put the love back into pre-loved with their Colour Studio service. The team can transform any pair of ivory Rainbow Club shoes into any colour, from neon brights to soft pastels. To find out more, visit www.rainbowclub.co.uk/colour
In other news for the brand, the new Rainbow Club x John Lewis & Partners Collection has recently launched featuring fashion-forward bridal shoes finished with chiffon bows, 3D floral detailing, oversized pearls and diamanté straps.
To shop, visit www.johnlewis.com www.instagram.com/johnlewis
EDITOR’S FAVOURITE
Bridesmaids will love the gorgeous gowns in the latest budget-friendly collection from KRISP. Vibrant colours include grown-up pastels, bold jewel tones and berry shades for year-round weddings. Styles include one-shoulder maxi dresses, Bardot-inspired off-the-shoulder looks and this flattering best-selling dress in rose pink, (pictured). There’s even a wide-leg chiffon jumpsuit, all with a price tag under £60.
To shop, visit www.krisp.co.uk www.instagram.com/krispclothing
The perfect marriage
The exclusive collaboration Marchesa for Pronovias has launched, a spectacular new collection of high-fashion bridalwear inspired by the beauty of Seville. Dresses feature Marchesa’s famous corset bodices, loved by celebrities, at more affordable price points in line with the Pronovias brand. Styles include this pretty Amaya dress in soft layered tulle with 3D appliqué florals.
To shop, visit www.pronovias.com www.instagram.com/pronovias #LoveConquersAll
SOMETHING OLD
The Loop has launched, a practical, affordable and sustainable option offering brides the opportunity to source a pre-loved wedding dress from a small selection of carefully chosen designer pieces. These items are picked from sample sections and archive collections belonging to a variety of global brands including Valentino (pictured) and British bridal brand Jenny Packham.
There’s also the option to tailor, personalise and customise items. Why not add embroidered initials, an embellished belt or feather trim?
To shop, visit https://the-loop.uk www.instagram.com/theloopbygg
