Your Surrey Wedding- December 2021/January 2022 (Issue 92)

WIN!

A break for eight guests at Whitley Hall, Yorkshire

www.yoursurrey.wedding

Dress up

Colourful dresses

WE EXPLORE

Guildford & Woking

A theme come true

DEC 2021/JAN 2022

£3.55

How to style your venue

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

Your Dream Island Wedding

R AV E N S AIT, P ORTS MOUTH ROA D, KI NGSTON U PON THA M ES, SU RREY, K T 6 4H N 0208 339 6960 | www.ravensait.co.uk

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021/2022

CONTENTS

69

Cover look

This issue’s cover is from Emily and Matt’s wedding on page 42. It was photographed by Fringe Photography (www.fringe-photography.com) at Lythe Hill Hotel (www.lythehill.co.uk).

REGULARS

FEATURES

What to look out for in this issue

We interview local florists

6 EDITOR’S LETTER

55 DARLING BUDS

9 NEARLYWED NEWS

66 MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Catch up on the latest from around Surrey

County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey

13 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

69 A THEME COME TRUE The latest styling trends

63 HOT TOPIC Our experts answer your questions

92 COMPETITION

www.roberthooper.co.uk

Win a fun-filled sleepover for eight guests at Whitley Hall in Yorkshire

VENUES

19 SPOTLIGHT ON GUILDFORD & WOKING Discover some of the best venues in the area

27 WALKING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND Tie the knot in a magical venue

27

3

REAL WEDDINGS 37 ELEGANT ROMANCE

www.copland-cale.com

37

49

Sarah and Liam tied the knot at Brooklands Hotel

74 FASHION FOCUS

49 THE GREAT OUTDOORS Holly and Toby tied the knot in 2020 in a small ceremony and celebrated with their friends and family this year

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

HONEYMOONS

75 DRESS UP

UK special

Trousers, statement sleeves, sleek A-line silhouettes and voluminous skirts are just some of the styles that brides will be wearing in 2022

GROOMS

96 HONEYMOON NEWS

93 GROOMS’ NEWS All the latest news and product launches

81 NOT ALL WHITE These pastel and champagne gowns prove that you don’t have to wear white

84 PARTY DRESSING We chat to model, television presenter and radio DJ Vogue Williams about her latest venue Vogue X Roco

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

88 FROM THE INSIDE OUT We caught up with owner and founder of Simone Thomas Wellness, Simone herself, to discover how taking care of yourself from the inside out is the ultimate path to wedding wellness

90 BEAUTY Q&A Local professionals solve your problems 4

94 CHECK PLEASE! Look dashing in this on trend print

42

www.photobart.uk

FASHION & BEAUTY

Emily and Matt celebrated their love with a romantic wedding at Lythe Hill Hotel

www.fringe-photography.com

75

42 FLORAL WONDERS

Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley ADVERTISING Sales & Events Director Sarah Ellis | 01376 538 490 sarahe@county.wedding Account Manager Anita Bridge | 01376 538 565 anitab@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James

C

an you believe it’s that time of year again? After everything we’ve all been through in the last two years, I think we all deserve to relax and what better time than Christmas/New Year? This festive season feels strange to me as it’s my last as a Miss.

I’m getting married in July 2022, and the countdown is officially on. Everything is booked and I’m starting to get excited and nervous about the idea of walking down the aisle. I love writing about your weddings and sharing your stories with our wonderful region, and it’s given me some great ideas for my own big day and is helping keep my nerves in check!

The December/January issue has always been my favourite, and we’ve gone all out to create an issue full of inspirational weddings, venue styling ideas, the latest flowers and gorgeous venues.

If you’d like to be featured inside the magazine, email me at melissab@kdmediapublishing.com or get in touch via our website www.yoursurrey.wedding/get-involved-real-wedding Merry Christmas and happy New Year!

75 Trends come and go quickly, so to help, we’ve rounded up the latest fashionable dresses.

42

www.fringe-photography.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

www.chrisblackledgephotography.co.uk

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

All I want for Christmas is you

Melissa x

Melissa Barker, Editor

81

Looking for something different for your big day? Be inspired by these striking wedding dresses.

@CountyWeddingMagazines @CountyWeddingMagazines @CountyWeddings @CountyWeddings @cwm_wedding @cwm_wedding

We love Emily’s gorgeous Madi Lane Bridal dress. Read all about her wedding to Matt in our real wedding section.

Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com Your Surrey 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 Surrey 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 Surrey Wedding, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. ISSN 1751-7095

EVENTS & PUBLISHING

6

92

Win a fun-filled sleepover for eight guests at Whitley Hall in Yorkshire.

Find the perfect wedding venue in Guildford or Woking.

EDITOR’S LETTER

www.photobart.uk

19

49 I love Holly and Toby’s English garden theme. Read all about their day in our real wedding section.

We’ve interviewed local florists to find out more about their businesses.

www.hayleybray.com

55

27

66

The latest hair and make-up ideas.

Find out all about my wedding planning journey.

www.chrisblackledgephotography.co.uk

Check out these winter wonderland venues.

90

7

BRIDAL INT LONDON - MELBOURNE

WWW.ALWAYSANDFOREVERBRIDAL.CO.UK

122 Hanworth Rd, Hounslow Middlesex TW3 1UG

T: 0208 570 4701

E: aandforever@yahoo.co.uk LIKE US ON FACEBOOK AT ALWAYS AND FOREVER BRIDAL

YOUR ESSENTIALS

WEDDING SHOWCASE ALERT!

Lythe Hill Hotel & Spa in Haslemere is hosting a wedding showcase on 27th February, 2022. The 16th-century Tudor house will have a variety of supplies exhibiting from across Surrey. You will be able to get a first-hand taste of all the wedding spaces and meet the dedicated team who will help you plan your perfect day. There will be food and wine tastings, and the first 50 entrants will receive a goody bag.

The show is taking place between 11am and 4pm.

This award-winning property is a hidden gem resting on the borders of Surrey, Hampshire and West Sussex that perfectly combines old-world charm with modern elegance to create an idyllic setting to tie the knot.

Head over to www.lythehill.co.uk for more information.

Nearlywed NEWS

www.roberthooper.co.uk

All the latest from around Surrey

CALM AND COLLECTED

A SPECIAL DISCOUNT

Dorking-based wedding venue, Denbies Wine Estate Limited is offering two special packages on all remaining dates between January and June 2022. The Standard Package is £80 per person for a minimum of 70 guests, and the Gallery Package is £95pp for between 30 and 60 loved ones.

Both packages include sparkling wine on arrival, a three-course meal, half-a-bottle of wine per person and use of the venue. Terms and conditions apply.

Denbies Wine Estate Limited is home to 17 en-suite bedrooms, a must-see restaurant and a magnificent pavilion centrepiece that provides a striking backdrop for photographs and musical entertainment. Perfectly situated within 265 acres of vineyards with breathtaking views of the Surrey Hills, the property is ideal for rustic-themed weddings.

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

Local jewellers, The Silver Sprite has launched a new collection of healing crystals. From clusters of citrines to large labradorites, there is a crystal to suit every need, mood and budget. The tumbled stones start at £3 and would make wonderful favours for wedding guests or as gifts for that special someone who have gone above and beyond.

The Silver Sprite also offer a range of earrings, necklaces, wristwear, pendants and rings that are perfect for the big day.

Check out www.thesilversprite.co.uk to see more.

9

CONGRATULATIONS!

Pennyhill Park in Bagshot, part of the Exclusive Collection, is the first hotel group in the UK to have been awarded certification as a B Corp (www.bcorporation.uk). The certification addresses the entirety of a venue’s operations and covers five key areas of governance, workers, community, environment and customers. Pennyhill Park is now part of a community of 4,000 businesses globally that have been certified as B Corps.

Danny Pecorelli, the managing director of Exclusive Collection, tells us: “It’s been a long but rewarding process to achieve B Corp certification, and we’ve learned so much and have so much still to do.

We are now embarking on a new chapter for the Collection where we will build on the good that we’ve been doing for the last 40 years and look at how we can do better. B Corp is a community that we’re very proud to be associated with, and we too will play our part in helping to educate and spread the word that success in business is as much about people and the planet as it is about profit.”

Discover more at www.exclusive.co.uk/pennyhill-park

NEW WEDDING VENUE

PICTURE PERFECT

Eray Kaya from irockvisuals, a photographer based in Sutton, is offering 20 per cent of his services if you book by 31st January, 2022. Available for micro-weddings, large celebrations and portfolio sessions, Eray can tailor packages to suit your big day. From full-day packages covering bridal preparation until the first dance to partial day coverage for those with small celebrations, irockvisuals has something to suit everyone. Eray also offers one-hour engagement shoots at a location of your choice, so you can get to know him before the big day and capture some beautiful photographs.

“I’ve shot in some stunning places, documenting all sorts of people at different occasions,” says Eray. “I’ll travel to wherever you want me to go, and I’m happy to discuss all your specific photo requests with you. I will always tailor a package to suit your needs.”

For more information, visit www.irockvisuals.com

www.irockvisuals.com

Set in tranquil and well-maintained grounds, the recently launched Storyboard at Shepperton provides plenty of photo opportunities within the wedding suites and meadows. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand extravaganza, with a theme that’s vibrant or more traditional, the flexible spaces, catering from 12 to 250 guests, can be tailored to your needs.

With a private entrance to the reception, a wedding bar and access to a scenic terrace, Storyboard is a gorgeous property. Choose one of its packages or build your own. The experienced team will ensure that every detail is taken care of, leaving you free to cherish every moment.

Get a good night’s sleep in a contemporary room at the coupled hotel, Holiday Inn London Shepperton. Couples will receive a complimentary executive bedroom and preferential rates for guests, access to the pool and a hearty breakfast in the morning. The spa treatment rooms offer a range of relaxing experiences and are available as an extra addition.

Visit www.storyboardatshepperton.com for more information.

A SPECIAL DAY

Elegantly set beside the 4,800 acres of Windsor’s Great Park, Fairmont Windsor Park is a new countryside wedding venue designed to reflect the site’s heritage. The grand opening will be on 1st January, 2022, offering UK staycationers access to a new destination for the season ahead. This elegant countryside retreat boasts more than 200 stylish rooms and lavish suites, a state-of-the-art spa with 18 treatment rooms, a six-person hammam, a cryotherapy chamber, a 20m indoor pool, a Himalayan salt room, a courtyard hydrotherapy vitality pool and a Japanese Ashiyu foot ritual bath.

“We wanted to create a sanctuary for those who wish to escape the stresses of modern-day life and provide an intimate space for families, friends and couples alike to reconnect after another challenging year,” says Surinder Arora, the founder and chairman of the Arora Group. “We can’t wait to welcome guests both from the UK and overseas who are looking forward to travelling again and enjoying luxury hospitality.”

Visit www.fairmont-windsorpark.com for more details.

10

Wedding Shows in Surrey JANUARY 2022 SHOWS Epsom Downs Racecourse Sunday 16th January

Kempton Park Racecourse Sunday 23rd January

OPEN 11AM - 4PM • FREE ENTRANCE • FREE PARKING

Join us at some of the best wedding shows in Surrey. Find local wedding suppliers to help you plan your special day!

For more information or to register your attendance visit our website www.celebratedaffairs.co.uk

w w w. helen-noble. co.uk 07787 530720 helen@helen-noble.co.uk @celebrantofsurrey

YES, YOU CAN DESIGN YOUR CEREMONY,

your words and your vows!

Having a Celebrant led wedding with Helen Noble, Celebrant of Surrey gives you the freedom in how you say ‘I DO!’.

Get in contact today and together we will tailor-make your ceremony. I’ll be with you all the way from concept to ‘I DO’. Feel empowered and inspired that you will own your ceremony, and it will be, like you, one of a kind.

Call me or head to my website, I’m so excited to meet you, let’s get creating and styling your ceremony.

OPEN

for bo o 2022 king 2023 2021 filling up fa Nove mber st only

THE FRESHEST SHOW BAND ON THE SCENE Combining some of the UK’s best musical talent with high energy performances and unique guest interaction.

The Rockets know how to put on a party! From acoustic duos to our 12 piece party band we’ll make sure your wedding is the party of the year! www.therocketscollective.com info@therockeetscollective.com Instagram @therocketscollective | YouTube @therocketscollective

FREEBIES & OFFERS

Scan to view video

www.lucydavenport.co.uk

DANCE TO THE MUSIC

Freebies & OFFERS Take advantage of these gorgeous giveaways and fab offers

TheRocketsCollective, a band in Surrey, is offering our readers an exclusive offer. Brides and grooms who book the five-piece band (or larger) will receive a free jazz duo for your reception.

The band combine some of the UK’s best musical talent with high energy performances to create a must-see show. Whether it’s twisting and jiving to a 50’s Rock ‘n’ Roll classic or moving to a current chart hit, there will be something for everyone.

“Our only concern is that you and your guests have a night to remember,” says director Tom Wyman.

“Producing some of the best music you’ll hear is second nature to us, but it’s the high energy performance and guest interaction that sets us apart from other show bands. We offer bespoke entertainment packages commended for their flexibility - which allow us to tailor what we do to your event. Our events co-ordinator will work with you to devise a set list tailored to your requirements from our extensive repertoire. The members of TheRocketsCollective have a wealth of experience across a wide range of areas in the music industry including party/show bands, orchestra and theatre work, session work, cruise ships, original music and more.”

To claim this fab offer, email the team at info@therocketscollective.com and quote Your Surrey Wedding. Valid on bookings made in 2022.

For more information about TheRocketsCollective, visit www.therocketscollective.com

WIN A LUXURY HAMPER WORTH £115!

Luxury gifting company hampers.com is bringing joy to all occasions. Each of its gift hampers is lovingly curated and handpacked in Oxfordshire, with perfectly paired food and drink from carefully selected makers and producers.

The team at hampers.com is giving County Wedding Magazines readers the chance to win a Luxury Food & Wine Basket worth £115.

The beautiful wicker basket is packed full of tasty snacks and moreish treats for nearlyweds to share together. The stars of the show are an excellent bottle of Prosecco, and a full-bodied Argentinian Malbec from the Gauchezco Estate, paired with award-winning cheese, hand-baked biscuits, and luxury Belgian chocolates.

For your chance to win enter via our website, and for more details about hampers.com and it’s range of delecatble gifts for the wedding day and beyond visit www.hampers.com

ENTER ONLINE AT WWW.YOURSURREY.WEDDING Closing date is 4th February, 2022, unless otherwise stated.

13

SPRING 2022

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

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.

BERKS, BUCKS & OXON

RACKLEY’S CHILTERN HILLS

Marlow Road, Cadmore End, Bucks, HP14 3PP

SUN 13 MARCH

ESSEX

LONDON

BRAXTED PARK

MORDEN HALL

SUN 16 JANUARY

SUN 3 APRIL

Great Braxted, Witham, CM8 3EN

Morden Hall Road, SM4 5JD

Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration.cfm

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA /CountyWeddingEvents

@ CountyWedEvent

@ countyweddingevents

KENT

SUSSEX

WEST HEATH

SELDEN BARNS

SUN 13 MARCH

SUN 13 MARCH

Ashgrove Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 1SR

Selden Lane, Patching, Worthing, BN13 3UL

HYTHE IMPERIAL HOTEL & SPA

CASTLE GORING

SUN 6 MARCH

SUN 10 APRIL

Princes Parade, Hythe, CT21 6AE

Arundel Road, Worthing, BN13 3UN

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.

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...

Sponsored by

WEMBLEY STADIUM

MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD

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

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

ASCOT RACECOURSE

THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE

High Street, Berkshire, SL5 7JX SUNDAY 24 APRIL 2022 | 11AM - 3:30PM

Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, CM15 9NN 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

C E L E B R AT E YO U R D AY AT

Kingswood Golf & Country Club As you enter through the impressive Kingswood Estate you arrive at Kingswood Golf & Country Club. Stunning grounds & beautiful interiors nestled in the Surrey Hills with world class food & exceptional service.

Kingswood Golf & Country Club • Sandy Lane | Kingswood | Tadworth | Surrey | KT20 6NE

01737 832188 • weddings@kingswood-golf.co.uk • www.kingswood-golf.co.uk

Photography by: funkyphotographers.co.uk

OAT L A N DS PA R K H OTE L , WE Y B R I D G E A ROYAL J EW E L I N THE HE A RT O F SU R R E Y ’S C R OW N

A MA RRIAGE OF STYLE AND HISTO RY A stunning 144 bedroom country house hotel in Surrey, located on the site of the historic Oatlands Palace - one of King Henry VIII’s favourite homes and the scene of his marriage to Catherine Howard.

Follow in the footsteps of Kings and Queens as this pictureperfect venue for a fairytale wedding amidst colourful gardens and beautiful views of the Broadwater lake.

OATLANDS DRIVE, WEYBRIDGE, SURREY KT13 9HB 01932 847242 | weddings@oatlandsparkhotel.com

www.oatlandsparkhotel.com

REGIONAL VENUES

Spotlight on...

GUILDFORD & WOKING THE TALBOT, GU23 6BB Located just 30 minutes from Central London, The Talbot is a 500-yearold property conveniently located between Heathrow and Gatwick.

The venue has on-site parking facilities, 43 modern bedrooms, a restaurant, a cosy bar, distinctive period features and an impressive archway that leads to a courtyard.

Alternatively, the versatile Wisley Suite is a self-contained area with high ceilings, chandeliers and space for 100 day guests and 80 for a sit-down meal.

The 15th-century Surrey Barns is also available. Boasting original beams, heaps of character and a romantic atmosphere, the room can be used separately or in conjunction with the Wisley Suite for up to 150 nearest and dearest. The barn has a new wooden bar with poser tables and a separate dining area.

Celebrate in style

We love...

Intimate nuptials take place in Emma’s Room, The Garden Room or the Victory Suite.

The happy couple will receive a complimentary bridal suite on the night of the wedding, a room for their first anniversary and a menu tasting.

01483 225 188 | www.thetalbotripley.com

19

BARNETT HILL, GU5 0RF 01483 893 361 | www.barnetthillhotel.co.uk Barnett Hill is a refurbished Grade II listed mansion surrounded by 26 acres of peaceful countryside and landscaped gardens. This historic building was built in 1905 by Frank Cook, the grandson of the travel agent Thomas Cook.

Celebrate in style

The Oak Room boasts contemporary chandeliers and a gorgeous décor throughout, with room for 80 loved ones for the service.

Receptions take place in the Garden Suite. This newly refurbished space has lots of natural light, a feature fireplace and can accommodate 80 nearest and dearest for the wedding breakfast and 120 for the evening celebration.

There are several areas where couples can say ‘I do’. The spacious Drawing Room has wood-panelling, an original fireplace, direct access to the terrace and space for 70 friends and family for the ceremony.

We love...

GORSE HILL, GU22 0QF

Celebrate in style

01483 747 444 | www.gorsehillsurrey.com

There are four civil ceremony rooms available, each beautifully decorated with plenty of space to entertain. The Boardroom, stylish Restaurant, classic Lounge and Hook Heath Suite are all available with capacities from two to 150 guests.

Receptions are held in the Restaurant, which has enough space to seat 90 loved ones or in the Hook Heath Suite with up to 150 friends and family.

Gorse Hill is an Edwardian mansion house situated in Hook Heath.

Surrounded by 17 acres of glorious countryside, with a garden suite and stone terrace, there are plenty of places to explore and take photographs.

Retaining much of its original Edwardian design, the property has a neutral colour scheme throughout and a modern décor with traditional elements. There’s also a range of wedding spaces available, a comfortable bar, an intimate restaurant and 67 en-suite bedrooms.

The venue offers a menu tasting and preferential accommodation rates for the night of the wedding.

We love...

Lovebirds will have complimentary use of the honeymoon suite and a menu tasting session.

20

•

LICENSED FOR CEREMONIES UP TO 100 •

EVENING RECEPTION UP TO 150 • •

43 BEDROOMS P R I VAT E G A R D E N

Midweek Wedding Package FOR 50 GUESTS £3450

The Talbot, High Street, Ripley, GU23 6BB /TalbotRipley @TalbotRipley T: 01483 225 188 E: weddings@thetalbotripley.com W: www.thetalbotripley.com

WEYBOURNE HOUSE St Catherine’s

The best kept secret in Guildford Exclusive use for your wedding Unique riverrside access Temple for Civil Ceremonies Packages available for 40 - 120 guests from £5,000 Call our main line:

01483 568 768 Email: weddings@weybournehouse.co.uk or visit our website: www.weybournehouse.co.uk

Kings Arms Hotel Whether you are looking to book rooms for your guests to stay at for your wedding or the bridal party wants to get ready and stay with us on such a memorable occasion.

We can also book areas within the food and beverage areas for you to celebrate a wedding breakfast, drinks party prior to the wedding or a small intimate dinner for you and your guests. We will create a menu and drinks offer to suit your requirements and make it a wonderful wedding for you.

Make an Enquiry 2 Lion Gate, Hampton Ct Rd, Molesey, East Molesy, KT8 9DD t: +44 (0)20 8016 630 e: enquiries@kingsarmshamptoncourt.com w: www.kingsarmshamptoncourt.com

REGIONAL VENUES

WEYBOURNE HOUSE, GU2 4DR

Celebrate in style

01483 568 768 | www.weybournehouse.co.uk

With the river close by, newlyweds can arrive in style by embarking at Guildford Boat House and slowly meandering up the river, enjoying a glass of wine before arriving at Weybourne House. From the moment they step on dry land, the team will treat them like a VIP with a red carpet and every detail planned to perfection.

Weybourne House is located at St Catherines, a quiet corner of Guildford, and boasts panoramic views over the Water Meadow and the River Wey. Guildford town centre and the mainline train station is just a short walk away, perfect for couples wanting to explore the area.

Constructed in 2005, the property has landscaped gardens, a riverside setting, a restaurant, wheelchair access and a large car park.

We love...

The wow-factor transport options available.

WOODHAVEN SPACE, GU21 4HY 07802 256 523 | www.woodhaven.space Woodhaven Space, a new wedding venue in Horsell, was designed and developed as an eco-friendly home as a blueprint for 21st-century living.

Founder Nicky Yates and her family have several allergies which was a driving influence for making Woodhaven a ‘healthy building’. As well as being the home for Nicky’s family, the space is also used for wellbeing events, hen parties and weddings. The property is an exclusive use, peaceful and private space. Based in the heart of Surrey, just 25 minutes from London, it’s perfectly located to capture idyllic photographs.

Celebrate in style There are several packages available to make the day as memorable

as possible, but the team can create a bespoke package if needed.

Couples will have exclusive use of the seven rooms available, three on the subterranean level and four on the ground floor, including the dining/ board room and the drawing room, which can be combined into one space for large celebrations. There is a 4K screen and ceiling audio which can be used to incorporate guests who are unable to attend in person.

Each room also has a TV that can be used to display images or messages to guests.

We love...

The property is ideal for hen and stag parties as well as pre-wedding getaways.

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WEDDINGS | EVENTS | MEDIA LOCATION We help you put on unforgettable events in one of England’s grand historic estates Marquee weddings set in stunning Italianate inspired gardens 2022 Sold Out – 2023/24 Spaces Available o l d r e c t o r y e s t a t e . c o m info@oldrectoryestate.com 01883 743388 – 07770 833902

The Boleyn Hotel opposite the River Thames dates back to the 16th century and is the perfect venue for your magical day. The hotel’s flexible and spacious facilities enable us to host weddings and parties catering up to 250 guests in our newly refurbished Pearl Suite. One of our experienced event managers will work together with you to ensure that your wedding day is planned to perfection, stress-free and unforgettable.

Our newly refurbished executive rooms are individually designed with a unique combination of colours and materials.

Rooms are fully air conditioned, have comfortable large beds for a great nights sleep, flat screen TV’s and grohe power showers.

01784 455930 | www.boleynhotel.com | stay@boleynhotel.com The Boleyn Hotel, 29 The Hythe, Staines, Middx, TW18 3JD

HAMPTON COURT PALACE

WEDDINGS VENUE HIRE FROM £3,000 + VAT HRP.ORG.UK/WEDDINGS

@HRP_EVENTS

your

PERFECT

year-round wedding venue in the heart of the Surrey Hills

denbies.co.uk

weddings@denbiesvineyard.co.uk

01306 734663

WEDDING SHOWCASE

2 3 RD J A N UA R Y 2 0 2 2

W E D D I N G S H O WC A S E S U N DAY 2 3 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 2 R E G I S T E R F O R F R E E O N O U R W E B S I T E

Stanhill Court is a magnificent country manor house, built in 1881 and surrounded by 35 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens and woodland. A stunning venue with idyllic views overlooking the Surrey Hills creating a romantic and picturesque setting.

01293 862 166 weddings@stanhillcourthotel.co.uk

www.stanhillcourthotel.co.uk

winter wonderland WALKING IN A

THEMED VENUES

Tie the knot in a magical venue

LYTHE HILL HOTEL & SPA, GU27 3BQ

meal and 250 in the evening.

Alternatively, the Hampton Suite boasts high ceilings, exposed bricks, a neutral décor and space for 80 loved ones.

The Old Room is ideal for intimate nuptials, with oak-panelled walls, a decorative fireplace and room for 30 nearest and dearest.

Outdoor weddings are held in the gazebo or in the beautiful meadow.

01428 744 815 | www.lythehill.co.uk Lythe Hill Hotel & Spa was originally a 16th-century Tudor house that perfectly combines old-world charm with modern elegance. The awardwinning property has plenty of places for couples to explore and take photographs, including the 22 acres of rural countryside. This hidden gem rests on the borders of Surrey, Hampshire and West Sussex and is easily accessible from main roads.

We love...

When booking, couples will be enrolled in the venue’s Tie The Knot membership, which provides them with access to the spa and health club in the lead up to the big day. There are also passes for friends along with discounts for Lythe Hill Hotel & Spa’s restaurant. The venue is also offering a range of winter wedding packages, available from November to March, that are purposely built for the colder months.

www.roberthooper.co.uk

www.emmarussellphotography.co.uk

Celebrate in style There are several wedding spaces available at Lythe Hill Hotel & Spa. The largest is the Ivory Suite, a grand space with an impressive sky-view lantern roof, exposed beams and room for 150 friends and family for the

DENBIES WINE ESTATE LIMITED, RH5 6AA 01306 734 663 | www.denbies.co.uk Denbies Wine Estate Limited is home to 17 en-suite bedrooms, a must-see restaurant and a magnificent pavilion centrepiece that provides a striking backdrop for photographs and musical entertainment. Perfectly situated within 265 acres of vineyards with breathtaking views of the Surrey Hills, the property is ideal for rustic-themed weddings.

Celebrate in style The largest room, the Denbies Suite, can accommodate 180 friends and

family. Alternatively, intimate nuptials of up to 50 loved ones can take place in the Ranmore Suite.

The Garden Room, which overlooks the Cloisters Courtyard, can hold 150 nearest and dearest, and the Vineyard Hotel can accommodate 30 guests and outdoor services for 150.

Evening celebrations take place in either the Conservatory, Gallery Restaurant or Vineyard Restaurant.

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Lovebirds will be offered a complimentary menu tasting and an overnight stay at Denbies Vineyard Hotel.

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www.murrayclarke.co.uk

www.murrayclarke.co.uk

HARTSFIELD MANOR, RH3 7AA Boasting far-reaching views of the Surrey Hills is luxury wedding venue, Hartsfield Manor. Perfectly situated within 16 acres of grounds and countryside, the property has heaps of Victorian character and charm, including a historic arched door, a staircase, chandeliers and a feature fireplace.

views and space for 40 friends and family.

Hartsfield Manor’s Lounge is ideal for large weddings. Offering an abundance of natural daylight through the grand bay windows, the space has high ceilings, a piano and room for 90 loved ones during the day. This space is then transformed for the evening reception to hold up to 180 guests. There’s also the option for a buffet to be served in the adjoining small lounge to give nearest and dearest an area to chat away from the dancefloor.

Celebrate in style Couples planning a small celebration will love the Brockham Suite, which comes complete with a fireplace, a private terrace, stunning

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The happy couple will receive a complimentary menu tasting, a bridal suite and changing room.

www.sarahannwright.com

01737 845 300 | www.hartsfieldmanor.co.uk

RICHMOND HILL HOTEL, TW10 6RW 02089 402 247 | www.richmondhill-hotel.co.uk Richmond Hill Hotel is made up of a row of Georgian townhouses that were built in 1726 and resided in by local dignitaries. The venue would make a gorgeous backdrop for any wedding with surrounding views of Richmond Park and the Thames Valley. Although the property doesn’t have its own grounds, it’s located on top of Richmond Hill and is just steps away from the National Natural Reserve with free-roaming deer and plantations. This historical park was once the hunting ground of King Henry VIII and his predecessors.

Celebrate in style The Richmond Room is a modern space in the heart of the hotel with a raised private bar area, sun terrace and room for 110 loved ones. This 28

space offers the perfect blend of 18th-century charm, contemporary touches and stylish elegance.

Decorated in a Georgian style, the Ballroom is ideal for large weddings of up to 180 guests and boasts high ceilings, lots of natural light and large dash windows.

Located on the ground floor, the Queens Room has a charming décor with lots of character and can accommodate 40 friends and family.

We love...

Lovebirds who book their wedding at the Richmond Hill Hotel will receive a complimentary menu tasting, a Georgian deluxe room and discounted rates for guests.

THE RICHMOND HILL EXPERIENCE

Wedding photography: Sarah Ann Wright

• ESTABLISHED IN 1726 • GEORGIAN CHARM WITH MODERN COMFORTS • HOME TO 144 ON THE HILL RESTAURANT AND BAR

Contact us by phone or email to book your personalised show round and come and experience it all now. Quote ‘Your Surrey Wedding’ and you’ll enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbles in the bar to toast your engagement.

Or, visit richmondhill.co.uk/weddings to explore more.

E: weddings@richmondhill.co.uk

RHH_SurreyWedding_210x297[3mbld]_V3.indd 1

T: 020 8940 2247

WWW.RICHMONDHILL.CO.UK

17/03/2021 20:42

YOUR PERFECT INTIMATE WEDDING. Overlooking the River Thames, The Petersham is the perfect setting for an intimate wedding. Experience Victorian splendour, fantastic food and exceptional service, leaving you to enjoy the most magical of days. www.petershamhotel.co.uk/weddings | 020 8939 1066 | weddings@petershamhotel.co.uk Nightingale Lane, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 6UZ

www.paulplacitelliphotography.com

www.paulplacitelliphotography.com

THEMED VENUES

STANHILL COURT, RH6 0EP 01293 862 166 | www.stanhillcourthotel.co.uk Located within 35 acres of glorious gardens and woodland is Stanhill Court. Originally a Victorian country manor house, the property is now a quintessentially English hotel that’s perfect for weddings. The new owner’s enthusiasm and passion for this historic building have led to a complete refurbishment with plenty of outdoor space, including an Amphitheatre and room to land a helicopter. The traditional yet contemporary interior, cabin-style bar, bright Orangery and bedrooms would make the perfect backdrop for any wedding.

Celebrate in style Weddings for 240 people take place outside in the Amphitheatre.

Situated in the heart of the venue, the Charlwood Suite can hold

240 guests and has moving partitions that can make the space smaller if needed.

Following the refurbishment, the Orangery has been given a new lease of life with a modern décor and can now accommodate 180 loved ones.

Overlooking the stunning gardens and terrace, The Lloyds Room has a traditional décor with contemporary twists, wood panelling, an original fireplace and space for 50 nearest and dearest.

We love...

W-day couples will receive a complimentary bridal suite with a group breakfast the following morning, a menu tasting and a firstanniversary stay.

THE PETERSHAM HOTEL, TW10 6UZ 02089 391 066 | www.petershamhotel.co.uk Boasting Victorian splendour, a romantic restaurant and impressive views of the River Thames is The Petersham Hotel. Couples who book the venue will receive the help of the dedicated wedding team, who will ensure every detail is planned to perfection.

Celebrate in style The River Room boasts beautiful views of the River Thames and Petersham Meadows, a private terrace and space for 30 friends and family.

The wedding breakfast will take place in the light and airy Terrace Room with up to 30 nearest and dearest.

Extend the celebrations into the evening and dance the night away with up to 55 loved ones in the working wine cellars, which are transformed into a disco with lights, a dancefloor and a bar.

We love...

The happy couple will receive a free menu tasting and an overnight stay.

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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 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

WEMBLEY STADIUM, 20

A date for your diary...

TH

FEBRUARY, 2022

MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD, 20TH MARCH, 2022

ASCOT RACECOURSE, 24TH APRIL, 2022

THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE, DATE TO BE RELEASED

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

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

SPONSORED BY

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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

Hosted at

A date for your diary...

20 March, 2022, 11.00AM - 3.30PM th

Hosted at Mercedes-Benz World Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0SL Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration Follow us on

/CountyWeddingEvents

@CountyWedEvent

@countyweddingevents

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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

THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE, ESSEX • 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 fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of

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

/CountyWeddingEvents

@CountyWedEvent

@countyweddingevents

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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

SUNDAY 20TH FEBRUARY 2022, 11AM TO 4PM WEMBLEY STADIUM, LONDON • 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

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

/CountyWeddingEvents

@CountyWedEvent

@countyweddingevents

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 24 th April 2022 | 11am to 3.30pm Hosted at Ascot Racecourse, High Street Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7JX Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration Follow us on

/CountyWeddingEvents

@CountyWedEvent

@countyweddingevents

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Elegant

REAL WEDDINGS

ROMANCE Sarah and Liam tied the knot at Brooklands Hotel Images courtesy of Copland-Cale Photography

S

arah and Liam met at work. “We work with children with special needs and challenging behaviours,” says Sarah.

“I loved Liam’s humour and his ability to make me laugh. I always wanted a relationship built on laughter with someone who can see the funny side of life.”

Liam proposed at a ball. “I thought he was joking as I was a bit drunk,” laughs the bride. “We then fell pregnant with our son, Tyler, so all wedding talk was put on hold. Then on Christmas Day in 2018, Liam surprised me by proposing again with a new ring in our home with our son.”

Here the bride shares some of her favourite moments from their big day...

37 37

Liam booked us a spa night at Brooklands Hotel for my 30th birthday, and I fell in love with the hotel. It’s a beautiful place that offers luxury and comfort. The staff were so friendly and went above and beyond for us.

Brooklands Hotel provided our table plan, place names and catering.

Due to COVID-19, this was our third wedding attempt, so we had longer to plan the little details. I didn’t want the day to be over the top, as it’s not who we are, but to still have a bit of sparkle. I don’t have any family, so my closest friends stepped in to support me and help where needed with the little touches.

We hired Loving Moments Events to create our centrepieces.

Our close friend Jessica made our big-day cake.

Our flowers were from Florals Forever, which we found on Etsy.

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REAL WEDDINGS

Liam wore a navy three-piece suit with a rose gold tie and pocket square from Moss Bros.

I had my best friend Laurence as my man-of-honour, and he dressed to match the groomsmen. My three bridesmaids chose rose gold mid-length dresses which had sequinned bodices and chiffon skirts from Next.

We hired a DJ from Kool Kats Entertainment who we had used for my 30th birthday. They were amazing and really know how to get everyone up and dancing. They took requests and always made sure our guests were having a good time.

Finding my dress was the most daunting part of the wedding. Two of my close friends booked me into a store in Morden, and they made me feel amazing. The dress wasn’t something I originally would have chosen as I’m self-conscious of my arms, however, I tried it on, and well after a lot of tears, I had my dress.

Saying ‘I do’ after such a long time felt like such a big achievement.

I felt panicked on the morning of the wedding. I was so scared to walk down the aisle, but my nine-year-old son stepped in and dragged me through the doors. Liam was so calm until he saw us walking down the aisle, and then he became emotional.

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Nicole from the events team at Brooklands Hotel was phenomenal at her job! She took the stress away and always went the extra mile.

I struggled in the run up to the wedding as my dad is no longer around. However, my two best friends, Laurence and Lizzie, made sure I would have him there in some sense.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions and work, we haven’t been able to have our honeymoon yet, but we’re planning to go to Bali in April.

The best men, James and Ben, think they’re a comedy duo, and when they asked everyone to toast us, they actually got people to wait and pulled toast out of their pockets! They looked so serious, and it made our guests chuckle.

SARAH AND LIAM’S CONTACTS Venue and catering, Brooklands Hotel, www.brooklandshotelsurrey.com | Photographer, Copland-Cale Photography, www.copland-cale.com Bride’s dress and accessories, Bridal 88, www.instagram.com/bridal88surrey | Groom’s suit, Moss Bros, www.moss.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Next, www.next.co.uk | Make-up artist, Charlene Hilden Makeup, www.instagram.com/charlenehildenmakeup | Flowers, Florals Forever, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/floralsforeveruk | Stationery, Zazzle, www.zazzle.co.uk | Wedding planner, Loving Moments Events, www.lovingmomentsevents.co.uk | Entertainment, Kool Kats Entertainment, www.koolkatsentertainment.co.uk 40

Loving Moments

Creating lasting memories is at the heart of Loving Moments Events. We not only plan and execute the décor for your special event, we also work closely with you to create a theme whilst incorporating your style, wants and needs for your day.

Your wedding or event should reflect you and your loved one perfectly. We take the time to get to really know you and to help you with your ideas.

www.lovingmomentsevents.co.uk 07985594036 | info@lovingmomentsevents.co.uk

Book your 2022 wedding for £2,022* or Enjoy £1,750 off* your honeymoon in 2022 *Terms and Conditions apply

When it comes to hosting your special day at Brooklands Hotel, the possibilities are endless. Call our Wedding Team on 01932 335720 to make your dreams a reality www.brooklandshotelsurrey.com

Emily and Matt celebrated their love with a romantic wedding at Lythe Hill Hotel Images courtesy of Fringe Photography

wonders Floral

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REAL WEDDINGS

E

mily and Matt met at university. “The first time we spoke was in the library,” says Emily. “We were introduced by mutual friends and chatted a little. When I got home, he sent me a Facebook message telling me he thought I was really beautiful. Turns out, he didn’t think I’d respond, but we started dating and have been together ever since.”

Matt proposed to Emily in August 2019. “Matt had wanted to propose the year before when we were travelling, but the timing just wasn’t right,” shares the bride. “My friend and I were out with our horses in the Surrey countryside when Matt walked onto the track and led me over to a picnic rug and popped the question. Although we had been talking about getting engaged, it was a huge surprise.”

SETTING THE SCENE “I really wanted an outdoor wedding, and the space at Lythe Hill Hotel was exactly what we were looking for,” explains Emily. “In terms of the indoor space, we loved the reception room, particularly the glass ceiling. We also liked the fact it was a hotel so we could have our guests stay there with us.”

For their favours, the couple gave their guests personalised love hearts with rustic labels.

“In the centre of each table was a log slice, tea lights, mini-easels with our table names on and vases filled with the bridesmaids’ flowers,” the bride adds. “The bridal party made the posies the night before the wedding using gypsophila. Fuchsia Blooms Florist & Cake Atalier provided my bouquet, and it was exactly what I dreamed of with lots of eucalyptus mixed with white flowers and thistles. On the morning of the wedding, we had to decide whether we wanted the outdoor gazebo decorated for an outdoor ceremony or a moon gate for an indoor ceremony. We were desperate for an outdoor service, but the weather was unpredictable, so we settled on having an indoor service. However, after deciding this, my mum actually paid for the outdoor decorations to be done as well. It provided stunning photo opportunities, and we’re so grateful to our florist for doing both for us.”

Emily and Matt hired Just As Delicious to create their big-day bake.

“We wanted a vegan wedding, and this extended to the cake, which was supposed to be a semi-naked design with three different tiers,” recalls Emily.

“Unfortunately, when transporting our cake on the morning of the wedding, our cake maker had a car accident! Luckily she was fine, but the bottom tier was too damaged to be used! The other two tiers were still absolutely delicious, as commented on by so many guests, and we even took the damaged tier home to eat. Our cake topper was amazing too. As our surname is Lamb, we ordered a bride and groom pair of sheep from Etsy.”

“We named our tables after different locations we’d visited together,” says the bride. “For the rest of the décor, we kept it quite simple. I created a mirror sign and an order-of-the-day palette with photos of us on.”

DRESSED TO IMPRESS “My dress was called Elora by Madi Lane Bridal,” shares Emily. “I had seen the dress years ago on Pinterest and fell in love. I loved the offthe-shoulder sleeves, the fact that the straps were detachable, the floral pattern and the low back. Madi Lane Bridal is an Australian designer, and there aren’t a huge number of stores that stock them here in the UK, but luckily I found The Farnham Boutique, which was close by. I tried on a few other gowns, but my heart was set on Elora, and I knew it was the one.

I accessorised with statement earrings and a white floral hairpiece from Victoria Harper Bridal Accessories.”

Matt and the groomsmen chose navy suits with brown shoes from Moss Bros. “The groomsmen had dark green ties, but Matt went for a lighter shade to stand out,” adds the bride. “The bridesmaids wore an assortment of green dresses from Chobham Bride. I asked the girls to choose the style they wanted, so we had a variety of different looks and colours.”

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The Phoenix String Quartet phoenixstringquartet.co.uk 07973 626343 nicklevy@blueyonder.co.uk

Beautiful ceremonies written especially for you

Very experienced professional string quartet specialising in providing music for wedding ceremonies, wedding receptions, private parties and anniversaries.

Rich Page

www.rdceremonies.org.uk rebecca@rdceremonies.co.uk | 07790387412

We can also arrange music for your wedding ceremony.

Cecily Beer H A R P I S T For that extra touch of class

Add timeless elegance to your wedding by booking Cecily, the Resident Harpist of the Waldorf Hotel, Covent Garden. Based in Camberley, Surrey, Cecily will travel up to 100 miles to play for your special day. Her repertoire spans classical, 50’s to current pop, musical theatre, jazz, folk and even Bollywood.

Past high profile clients Cecily has played for include Her Majesty The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh; Prince Charles’ 60th Birthday; Time Out Magazine; and Ronnie Wood of The Rolling Stones. Popular parts of the wedding for the harp to feature are the ceremony, drinks reception or the wedding breakfast.

Scan to view video

Watch Cecily in action CONTACT

Contact Cecily on info@cecilybeer.co.uk or visit the website and fill out the online contact form

W W W.C E C I LYB E E R .CO. U K @cecilyharpist

cecily.harpist

REAL WEDDINGS

TIME TO CELEBRATE “We hired a live band called The Kicks who were incredible,” explains Emily. “They played a variety of songs which we all knew. There was a large group of us dancing and singing all night. They were also great at taking requests when the DJ was performing between sets.”

MEMORABLE MOMENTS “I was incredibly nervous and overwhelmed getting ready, but once the ceremony started and I was with Matt, I felt so relaxed,” recalls the bride. “I had an incredible day and enjoyed every minute. The evening celebration was amazing. Dancing and singing with our friends and family was so special. After a year of COVID-19 restrictions, it was so nice to be able to have a proper celebration and see people who we hadn’t for so long.”

The couple had a day full of fun and loving moments. “During the ceremony, there were quite a few bits which made us laugh,” explains Emily. “In particular, my full name, including both middle names, is very long and a bit of a mouthful, so every time we said it, we couldn’t help but laugh. On the morning of the wedding, I asked one of the groomsmen to come to the room where I was getting ready. I gave him a box which I had prepared for Matt and asked him to give it to him before the wedding. After the ceremony, I saw that Matt didn’t have the watch I had bought him on, which was in the box given to the groomsman.

Turns out he had completely forgotten to give him it, which I found hilarious.”

“Fringe Photography were absolutely fantastic,” says the bride. “They made us laugh, and never once did we feel awkward. Fuchsia Blooms Florist & Cake Atalier, was also wonderful for decorating both the indoor and outdoor spaces for our ceremony and being so flexible. The staff at Lythe Hill Hotel were so amazing and made sure the day ran smoothly, and if anything went wrong, we didn’t know about it.”

MEMORABLE MOMENTS “We haven’t been on a proper honeymoon due to COVID-19, but we did manage to go on a minimoon to Cornwall and then to the Cotswold with some friends,” shares Emily. “We felt it was really necessary to go away for a few days and spent some time with our loved ones as well.”

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EMILY AND MATT’S CONTACTS Venue, Lythe Hill Hotel, www.lythehill.co.uk | Photographer, Fringe Photography, www.fringe-photography.com | Bride’s dress, The Farnham Boutique, www.thefarnhamboutique.com | Bride’s hair pieces, Victoria Harper Bridal Accessories, www.victoriaharper.co.uk | Groom’s suit, Moss Bros, www.moss.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Chobham Bride, www.chobhambride.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ hair stylist, Rosie Hart Hair & Makeup, www.rosiehartstylist.com | Bridesmaids’ make-up artist, Zoe Sharman Hair & Makeup, www.zoesharmanmakeup.co.uk | Bride and mother-ofthe-bride’s hair and make-up, Jennifer Hawkins Hair and Makeup Artist, www.jenhawkins.co.uk | Cake, Just As Delicious, www.justasdelicious.com Flowers, Fuchsia Blooms Florist & Cake Atalier, www.fuchsiabloomsflorist.com | Entertainment, The Kicks, www.kicksband.co.uk | Photo booth, Outside and Instant Photography, www.outsideandinstant.com 46

At Lythe Hill

Packages available from £7,495 ...

Join us for our

WEDDING SHOWCASE Sunday 27th February 2022 | 11am - 4pm Meet with recommended Lythe Hill wedding suppliers and the Lythe Hill Weddings Team.

Food and wine tastings from 12pm • Free Entry

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LY THE HILL

W W W. L Y T H E H I L L . C O . U K |

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E V E N T S @ LY T H E H I L L .C O M |

SURREY

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GU27 3BQ

main image: www.photographybypaloma.co.uk accessories: www.dapperandsuave.uk with thanks to our customers for the use of their “real weddings” images

COMPLETE PLANNING | PARTIAL PLANNING | ON THE DAY MANAGEMENT

Our goal is simple, planning bespoke weddings, individually crafted to be as unique as you are! Get in touch today for a consultation to see how we can bring your dream day to life, take the pressure off and allow you to soak up the happiness of your special day!

WWW.TAYLOR-MADEWEDDINGS.CO.UK taylor@taylor-madeweddings.co.uk | 07944720126 taylormadeweddingplanning | taylormadeweddings

The great outdoors REAL WEDDINGS

Holly and Toby tied the knot in 2020 in a small ceremony and celebrated with a large celebration this year with their friends and family Images courtesy of Photo Bart

H

olly and Toby met at university. “We went to a bonfire parade with mutual friends,” says Holly. “We ended up spending the evening together when we lost the rest of our group.

We dated through university and got engaged during a weekend with my family. It took until Sunday evening for Toby to get round to popping the question; not because he was worried about the answer, but because he was nervous of asking my dad!

Fortunately, we both said yes. Toby proposed with a Haribo ring, and we went to a jeweller a few weeks later to get the real one. The best bit was phoning our friends and family to tell them the news.”

The happy couple tied the knot in 2020 in Bradford. “It was a truly special day celebrating the union of two families,” shares the bride. “The only people who could attend due to COVID-19 restrictions were the registrar and Toby’s brother. We had a church service then a picnic in the park allowing social bubbles to come and take away a slice of cake.

Although, not at all what we’d planned, it allowed us to spend time together on our wedding day, and we would recommend a micro-wedding to everyone.

However, we did want to celebrate properly with our friends, so we had our big wedding celebration this year.”

Here she shares some of her favourite moments from their big day...

49

ch in Woking on recommendation from Toby and I chose the beautiful St John’s Chur every Sunday. Glynn, the vicar, did med our pastor and couldn’t have been more welco ining the meaning of marriage. expla a wonderful job of leading the service and

Our original plan was to order rusti c tables but after normal trestle table some confusion, we s! Fortunately, we ’d ordered were able to order Alexander Hire. T last minute tableclo he runners were H ths from +M cloths that To by’s mum adjusted tables, and the ca to fit the ndlesticks were al l from charity shop s.

lour an explosion of co the day. We chose of rt pa erine ite ng ur Ta vo d fa ke my day, we as T he flowers were our first wedding to ge the ma t ho ns a ai ag As g ents. re stunnin and fun ar rangem it. T he flowers we on in le. sp bt eir su th g t in pu th to go for some and Green Florist so glad we didn’t ’re we one d to an in es, ed in ess dr d them comb blue bridesmaids’ rent years and ha ffe di e th . m me fro co ts to uque years We dried both bo so they’ll last for he Secret Garden, ar rangement by T 50

We have a lot of friends in the South East, particularly around Guildford, which helped us decide on a location. Reception venue s were quickly ruled out due to capacity issues, and after looking around a few spaces, we realised we wanted the flexibility of a marquee. We were extrem ely fortunate and forever grateful to our friends who lent us their garden for the day, and after a bit of searching, we stumbled upon Four Seasons Marquees. Ther e are a million things to consider with marquees, but Ross and Guy did a marv ellous job of knowing what would be needed and adjusting our requests in the weeks before the wedding.

We loved organising the table plan. The chalkboard was pre-loved, and we used leftover origami paper to create the colourful strips of paper for the names. Attaching names with craft pegs worked well as it meant last-minute adjustments could easily be made.

We both love food and spend a good deal of time cooking or eating, so choosing a caterer was one of the decisions we want ed to get right. We settled on the idea of tagine as it’s a dish we both love and want ed to share with our friends. We envisioned an infor mal meal with everyone serving themselves.

REAL WEDDINGS

I try to avoid fast fashion, so it was important to me to be as sustainable as possible. I was unable to find any boutiques that offered dres ses to rent but found the website Stillwhite, which allows brides to sell their gow ns afte r the big day. I chose 6758 by Stella York. I knew I wanted a fabulous bac k and hea rd of Naomi Skull Sews through a friend.

Naomi added all the lace app liqué and panels to give the design a personal twist.

Toby hired suits from Moss Bros.

We felt surprisingly chilled on

the mor ning of the wedding.

We were already mar ried, so the legal bit was done, and we were just there to celebrate.

tely couldn’t find esses but unfortuna dr ’ ds ai esm id br d pre-loved es of pastel blue in I had hoped to fin wore different shad ls gir he T es. on ing! dered new y all looked stunn anything, so we or JJ’s House. T he m fro le sty ap wr a

We absolutely love dancing. At other weddings, we’re the first on the dancefloor and the last to leave. Having a band who had an infectious energy was very important to us, and we spent a long time trying to find the perfect entertainment. We’re so glad that Sunny Roots were available!

We out for guests to play. a range of lawn games re we re s. the ph és, gra ap oto can ph During the g our family croquet going on durin of n sio ver e rac ay rel could see a 51

we used it to come we had a lot of free time, so During the summer of 2020, g one as our first ces. We had joked about usin up with Tik Tok-inspired dan our friends and g it. It was so fun to see all of dance, and we ended up doin ce. erent to a traditional slow dan family enjoying something diff

I forgot my veil on the morning of the wedd ing, and neither of us noticed until the next day! One of our friends had an outfit mishap during the service and miraculously managed to find a dress in a local shop in the village and made it back in time for a cup of tea.

For our honeymoon, we stayed in a yurt in Wiltshire for a night and then had a few days in the Cotswolds. We specifically didn’t want to go anywhere exotic as the treat was spending time together as a couple, playing Monopoly, reading and drinking gin.

The best part of the day was being able to mingle with people we hadn’t seen due to the pandemic.

HOLLY AND TOBY’S CONTACTS Ceremony venue, St John’s Church, www.stjohnswoking.org.uk | Reception marquee, Four Seasons Marquees, www.fourseasonsmarquees.co.uk Photographer, Photo Bart, www.photobart.uk | Bride’s dress, Stillwhite, www.stillwhite.com | Dress alterations, Naomi Skull Sews, www.naomiskullsews.co.uk | Jewellery, Essential Jewellers Guildford, www.facebook.com/essentialguildford | Groom’s suit, Moss Bros, www.moss.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, JJ’s House, www.jjshouse.com | Hair stylist, Harringtons of Guildford, www.harringtonsofguildford.co.uk Make-up artist, Makeup by Jenny Ojo, www.facebook.com/jennyojomua | Flowers, Tangerine and Green Florist, www.tangerineandgreenflorist.co.uk | Flower preservation, The Secret Garden, www.secretgardenguildford.co.uk | Stationery, Printed.com, www.printed.com | Band, Sunny Roots, www.entertainment-nation.co.uk | Catering, Delightful Dining, www.delightfuldining.co.uk | Tablecloths, Alexander Hire, www.alexanderhire.co.uk 52

Personalised Wedding Gifts Memorable presents for bride and groom

Come and meet me at your local Wedding Fair!

OLD THORNS MANOR RICHMOND HILL HOTEL W O O D L A N D S PA R K H O T E L @FLORALALCHEMYSURREY |

20th February 10th April 10th July @ F L O R A L PA U L A

www.floralalchemy.co.uk

W W W. FA R R A R - TA N N E R . C O . U K

House

OF

Flowers

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S O N YO U R E N G AG E M E N T !

You deserve to enjoy this celebratory time & not feel overwhelmed by planning your wedding.

Thats where we can help. We have a range of expertly designed wedding services to cater to all your individual wedding day wishes.

For your big day our highly experienced florists will ensure we create the look, style you’ve always dreamed of. As wedding specialists we are accustomed in dealing with with different clients so whether you require lush bespoke style or simple elegant flowers, we will recognize those needs and do our utmost to create that for you, and make your day truly special.

H O U S E O F F L O W E R S S U R R E Y. C O M

houseofflowerssurrey@hotmail.co.uk | 01932 566764

DARLING We interview local florists

F

buds

FLOWERS

lowers are one of the most important parts of any wedding, so finding the right supplier is essential. To help you make the right choice, we’ve interviewed three Surrey-based florists.

Meet Sharon Monk from Longacres Garden Centre 01276 476 778 | www.longacres.co.uk

Tell us about your company? Longacres has the largest cut flower shop in the South-East, and we deliver hundreds of amazing wedding packages every year.

What should couples expect when booking your services? Our dedicated team of enthusiastic florists have decades of experience with an amazing eye for detail. We supply an exclusive personal florist who will be with you every step of the way, working with your tastes and providing that personal touch. We can manage every event from a small intimate venue to large hotels and outdoor properties. Every wedding is different, so we can create flowers in any colour, style or theme such as romantic, country garden, modern chic, classic elegance or something a little quirkier.

www.gmgcreative.co.uk

Do you have any top tips for couples looking for a florist? Talk to your florist about your specific needs to see if they can create a distinctive look that suits your big day.

www.gmgcreative.co.uk

What’s your favourite part of the job? We are devoted to making your wedding dreams come true. You are not simply customers but rather a couple choosing Longacres to be part of your special day. To start your journey, please book an appointment with one of our wedding florists at one of the Longacres stores.

www.gmgcreative.co.uk

What services do you offer? We can deliver your flowers and (if desired) dress your venue to ensure you get the wow factor you and your guests are expecting. In addition, we are very excited to offer our enhanced range of hire items, from vases and lanterns to big items such as moon arches and our beautiful new blossom trees.

55

Meet Annabel Grange from Butterflies & Bows

you change your colour scheme or choice of vases/décor, I’m happy to adjust your booking to meet your requirements. I try to be as flexible as possible.

07717 527 923 | www.butterfliesandbows.co.uk Tell us about your background – how did you become a florist?

I started at night school while I was working in electronics. I’d always loved my garden and saw a course being advertised, so I thought why not? The electronics company I was working for was taken over a couple of years later, so I decided to go full time and start up my own flowers company. I have an excellent background in advertising, accounts, purchasing and sales, which is essential when owning a business.

What should couples expect when booking your services? I meet my couples for a one-on-one consultation and go through every detail of their day, especially colours using my hug portfolio, which gives the bride and groom a feel of what the finished product will look like.

I provide a personal service, and unlike some other shops, I only do one or two weddings per day. I also deliver and set up, and collect any loaned items the next day, so you don’t have to worry. In addition, if

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What’s your favourite arrangement that you’ve made and why?

I don’t have a favourite – there are way too many! I enjoy making a variety of designs and styles – I also enjoy being given free rein to create a particularly unusual design.

How long before the wedding should couples book? I take bookings 18 months before the wedding as slots get reserved very quickly.

What’s your favourite part of the job? I love walking into a blank venue and creating a real wow factor with the flowers and décor. When the couple walk in and love it, it’s an amazing feeling.

Do you have any top tips for couples looking for a florist? Ask to see their portfolio, recommendations, and thank you letters. Don’t let one bad review on a social platform put you off – there may be a story behind it. Talk to the florist, preferably face to face, to see if you click and make sure they understand what you’re looking for.

6 6 Hi g h St reet, D or k ing , Surre y R H4 1AY 0 1 3 0 6 8 8 3 5 1 1 | fbe@ btconnect .co m

www.flowersbyel aine.co.uk

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE | QUICK RESPONSE | TO SUIT ALL BUDGETS

CATHEY’S FLOWERS

I can design/make any theme and match any colour that you choose and use only the best qualityflowers. Please enquire anytime with your requests.

07703 595 384 | CATHEYSFLOWERS@LIVE.COM | CATHEYSFLOWERS.COM

Fiona's photography is her art and she would love to share this with you. Creating amazing images that

you will cherish for generations. She prides herself on offering the best service she can, making clients feel

totally at ease in front of the camera a n d getting the

best out of their personalities. The passion she has for

her work has been awarded through out the industry, but more importantly her clients LOVE their photos -

th is means more to herthan anything!

Fiona's packages start at £2500, which includes a full

days photography from bridal preparations through to the first dance, plus a beautifully crafted, 20 page ltailan wed ding album.

Special Offer for 2021/22 clients contact for details

Fiona lngvars son F B IPP FSWPP Fiona Elizabeth Photography TEL: 079 61 578 100

EMAi L: fiona@fionaelizabethphotograp hy.com WEB: www. fionaelizabethphotography.com INSTAGRAM: @fiona_elizabeth_photography FACEBOOK: Fiona Elizabeth Photography

The Reception Hall

The Ceremony Hall

Outside Terrace and Garden

The Wedding venue for Godalming, Surrey Clock Barn Hall is a modern venue set in the heart of a working farm and estate just outside Godalming, Surrey. A truly romantic setting, surrounded by stable yards, barns, fields and horses.

Clock Barn Hall consists of two halls, one of which is primarily used for Civil ceremonies and is licensed for up to 100 guests. The other hall is an elegant reception hall for wedding breakfasts and parties.

The reception hall can seat up to 100 guests, with the option of extending to 170 guests for larger receptions. Both halls boast modern lighting and air conditioning (perfect for those hot summer days). The venue also has a bride’s room, a family room, and ample free parking.

Run by husband and wife team Kevin and Isabel Mason, based at Clock Barn Farm in Godalming. They diversified into weddings in 2007 and it has since proved to be very popular. It is in an ideal location with easy access to the A3 and 2 miles from Godalming Town Centre. There are numerous advantages for booking with this venue. To find out more please see their website: www.clockbarnhall.co.uk info@clockbarnhall.co.uk

FLOWERS

Tell us about your company? We are proud to be the appointed florist for Wotton House, Denbies Wine Estate and The Burford Bridge. We work closely with their wedding teams and recommended suppliers to ensure that your wedding day is the day of your dreams. We are also a recommended florist for Hartsfield Manor and Guildford Manor Hotel & Spa, as well as working at other local hotels, churches and venues.

What should couples expect when booking your services?

Wedding flowers are a huge part of your day, and our team of friendly and highly experienced florists will provide a professional and personal service to help you choose the perfect blooms. From a small intimate affair to a large formal occasion, from bouquets and buttonholes to church and venue decorations, we will ensure that your flowers enhance your day. We also have a large selection of items available to hire, including vases, candelabra, artificial blossom trees and bay trees.

How long before the wedding should couples book? We recommend that you book your consultation around six months to a year before your wedding, as we do get booked up quickly. If you come and see us at the same time of year as your wedding, it may give you a chance to see what seasonal flowers are around at the time. Contact us in advance to book your consultation as we have a lot of couples to meet, and obviously, Saturday appointments are most popular and get filled quickly!

We offer appointments for weekday and Saturday afternoons, so, if possible, try and have a few possible dates in mind when you get in touch with us. Feel free to email us any of your ideas before your consultation, for example, photos, colour samples, dresses, pictures of the wedding

Do you have any top tips for couples looking for a florist? Most couples have a budget for their wedding flowers, so prioritise which flowers are most important to you for the day. We recommend focusing on the flowers that will be most photographed, so we would advise not to scrimp on your bridal bouquet.

When working with a budget, there are often ways to reuse flowers throughout the day, and we can discuss different ideas with you. Large arrangements can be moved to different areas, and there may be an option for using flowers from your ceremony as your table centrepieces afterwards. If you have a lot of bridesmaids, a great idea is to have vases on the top table to display their bouquets in to save spending on other flowers.

Don’t worry if your knowledge of flowers isn’t great, we are here to guide you through the process and make choosing your blooms one of the highlights of the planning process!

www.sobellephotography.com

01306 883 511 | www.flowersbyelaine.co.uk

venue etc. This will help give us a head start to build a picture of the day you want to create before we meet you.

Try to limit the number of people you bring to your meeting with us. Not only do we have limited space, but often, having too many friends/family with you may lead to too many distractions and different opinions. We want your appointment to be stress-free and an enjoyable part of your wedding preparations!

After your consultation, we will put an estimate together and email it to you. We aim to get this to you as soon as we can, but it can take up to a couple of weeks during particularly busy times. When booking with us, we take a deposit of £100 to hold the date and then require the balance to be settled two weeks before your wedding.

Once booked, we will stay in touch via email and phone, and any alterations can be made to your estimate. You may want to book another appointment to come and meet with us again to have a final catch up and confirm all the details. We would like your order confirmed two weeks before so we can plan our flower list and place our order with suppliers.

www.hayleybray.com

Meet Elaine Davis from Flowers by Elaine

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BESPOK E S E RV I CE , IN SA LON OR ON LO CATI O N Hair styling, Cuts & Colouring, Extensions and Clip ins, Hair Up Friendly helpful staff who will help ease your big day 205 KINGSTON ROAD EWELL , SURREY, KT19 0AB 22 ST MARTINS WALK DORKING RH41UT Ewell: 0208 3931515 Dorking: 01306 743665 info@uhsalons.co.uk www.uhsalons.co.uk

Your Wedding Day Your dream wedding with amazing views of quintessentially English countryside is offered at Burrows Lea Country House.

Nestled in some of Surrey’s most idyllic countryside, making it the perfect venue for a beautiful English country wedding.

Having your wedding at Burrows Lea means you can have both your ceremony and reception in one location. Our in-house chapel is fully licenced to hold wedding ceremonies, offering couples the chance to tailor a service that suits them. It is non-denominational, so we can cater for all beliefs and expectations. Our on-site registrar will work with you to create your perfect ceremony.

A wonderful sweeping driveway leads you up to the entrance of Burrows Lea, an imposing manor house set on a hillside overlooking the stunning views of the countryside. From the fabulous formal rose garden to the wooded hollow and tree-lined walkways, the gardens are immaculately kept. During April and May be enchanted by the spectacular bluebell woodland, which is magical.

Burrows Lea provides everything you would ever need or want for a picture-perfect English country wedding. Let our passionate and approachable team, who have an abundance of experience in ensuring that every detail is taken care of, help you make this a most memorable day.

For more information call 01483 205620 or email enquiries@burrowslea.org.uk

Irock visuals Photography business based in Surrey, I love to capture that natural moment - part of which makes a photo so special. I am flexible to my customers’ needs and will discuss any project with you to make sure I achieve your desired specification. I really enjoy being able to record that ‘unique’ shot and turning your moments into cherished memories.

Qualified and Insured.

Happy to travel to wherever you need me.

07876 253 562 eray@irockvisuals.com

www.irockvisuals.com /eraykayaphotography

/irockvisual

EXPERT ADVICE

HOT TOPIC: WEDDING WORRIES Our experts solve your problems

www.irockvisuals.com

LET THEM EAT CAKE!

LIGHT ON A DARK DAY

I’m worried about it being too dark at our wedding to take photographs. How can we capture creative night time shots?

Don’t let the longer and darker nights deter you from booking an autumn or winter wedding. It’s very popular for venues to host twilight nuptials during these months, which cater specifically for these types of celebrations.

Your photographer should discuss the types of shots they will be able to capture during the darker months. Always check out their website or portfolio for evidence of their artistry before booking.

I always try to make my shots different and creative. Night time shots make for fantastic shadows with an element of romance about them. I use extra lighting to create a glow effect and try and take advantage of any twinkly lights. Capturing worthy shots does come with experience, so make sure your photographer is up to the challenge.

Eray Kaya | Photographer www.irockvisuals.com

What cake design and flavours would you suggest for a winter wedding?

There are so many options available that are perfect for winter weddings. You could opt for a semi-naked design adorned with deep red flowers, pine cones, holly, ivy leaves and foliage or go for sugar versions instead, which you can keep after the big day.

Think of the kind of icing you want on your wedding cake and if you want texture applied, whether it be appliqué, stencilling or edible lace.

Deep reds, purples and various shades of blues, greens and whites would be a great way of incorporating the time of year.

For the flavours, how about cinnamon, mixed spice, nutmeg and clove?

Just thinking of these spices will give your guests a warm wintry feeling.

Snowflakes and an iced white snow effect would also look great.

Shenaz Lake-Thomas | Cake expert www.ltcakes.co.uk

ARRIVE IN STYLE

How do we find the perfect transport company for our upcoming wedding?

The budget for your wedding car is an important factor when deciding which type of vehicle and company to go for. Prices differ depending on whether you’re looking at classic, vintage, luxury or prestigious options. Some companies may impose a flat day rate, and others may charge based on the time and journeys required. Always check what’s included, such as drinks, multiple pick-ups and photo stops. Some suppliers may include this as standard, and others may add these on as premium options.

Wedding dresses came in all shapes and sizes, so keep in mind that long trains and full skirts can take up lots of room in the back of the car. For dresses with excess material, you will need to consider a more spacious option with plenty of room in the back to accommodate your dress.

Work with a company you feel comfortable with, and that makes you feel relaxed and stress-free. Always check what’s included in their service so your expectations will be met on the day and check reviews where possible. Ask if you can view the vehicle before you book, as this is a great way to ensure it’s to your liking – not only in the way it looks but also in whether it will be suitably sized and comfortable.

It’s good to have in mind a couple of options just in case your first choice doesn’t fall within your budget or is not available for your wedding date. With all of this in mind, it’s worth shopping around to find a car that matches your preferences and budget.

Amanda Fleming | Transport specialist www.k1classiccarhire.com 63 

DANCE WITH ME

Do you have any ideas of how we incorporate our Christmas theme into our first dance?

Christmas is a wonderful time of the year for a wedding as everyone is in the mood to celebrate in style. Here are a few things that will help add some extra sparkle to your first dance: Christmas tunes are a great place to start for your first dance song.

They are catchy, festive and can be slow, fast, cute, smooth, sexy and suit whatever style of dance you’re looking for. Some wonderful song choices include Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas is You and Frank Sinatra’s White Christmas. One of our favourites is Michael Bublé’s Santa Baby. Any of these would be a perfect music choice for your first dance.

Think about what the second song will be. This song is THE song to get everyone up and onto the dancefloor with you. At this time of year, the choice is huge, and we all know that the floor fills up with songs such as Slade’s Merry Christmas Everybody and Brenda Lee’s Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.

If you’re having a band or DJ playing at your wedding, you could ask if they could add a Christmas sound to your first dance song or

wedding dance playlist. The sound of bells or a carol rift would be a fantastic way to add some festive cheer.

Some dance moves are perfect for this time of year, such as the Sparkly Star, where the couple can create a star shape with their bodies, the Christmas Cuddle, a spin towards each other and sway and the Merry Mistletoe where a cheeky kiss can be added into the dance routine that yes, as you might have guessed, happens under a bit of mistletoe. It’s so romantic and a great photo opportunity! However, you choose to commemorate your wedding, be sure to celebrate with a festive first dance!

Lorraine Ansell | Dance teacher www.firstdancestudios.co.uk

www.denisewinterphotography.co.uk

BOOGIE ALL NIGHT LONG

HOLD ME CLOSE

My wife-to-be and I are having a December wedding and are worried the weather might ruin our photographs. How can we capture stunning pictures whatever the weather?

I can completely understand your concerns, but try not to worry too much. Winter weddings can be fabulous! Think of a dusting of snow, glistening frost on the trees, atmospheric fog and beautiful golden hours, which happen far earlier in the winter and look even more beautiful when you’re tightly wrapped up in your partner’s arms.

Even rain, as long as it’s not torrential, can be romantic when snuggled under umbrellas. The other plus point is most wedding venues have their Christmas decorations out by the end of November, so you’ll have the twinkle of fairylights or candlelight glistening in the background.

Lots of photographers also carry off-camera lighting that can be used to create magical outside evening scenes. If you’re worried, chat through your concerns with your supplier, I’m sure they’ll be able to share their experiences and some ideas from previous weddings.

Denise Winter | Photographer www.denisewinterphotography.co.uk 64

We’re looking for a fun band for our upcoming wedding. What questions should we ask before booking to ensure they’re the perfect supplier for us?

Choosing the right band for your wedding can make or break the day. Here are our top tips for booking the perfect supplier for your big day: Set amount and length – The standard set length in the industry is 2x60 minutes but watch out as some will only provide 2x45 minute sets. Ask about flexibility on set length, as 2x60 min could also be 3x40min, whatever works best for your evening.

Repertoire – Make sure that the band you book has a repertoire that suits your tastes.

How flexible is the setlist? Do they pre-arrange requests? Can the first dance be played live?

In between sets – What happens when they aren’t playing? For example, we provide a Spotify playlist that can be upgraded to a full DJ package in between and after the band is finished.

Promo videos/live footage – Make sure you’re getting the same performers you’ve seen in the promo videos! Illness can’t be helped, but it’s important that you get the same supplier you’ve booked. Also, have a look at the live footage of the group. This will give you an idea of what to expect, how they keep their energy up etc.

Optional extras – Will you have live music during your ceremony? Some background music during your drinks reception? Can you add musicians to your band or take away members to suit the budget?

Public Liability Insurance – Check your company has PLI, as it would be a real shame for your venue to ask to see the certificate and the group not being able to provide one and be unable to play at your event.

Some other things to think about are lighting, sound limiters, fuel and accommodation costs (location dependant), deposits and payment arrangements.

Make sure your supplier is flexible and can mould itself to your big day. Don’t be afraid to ask them for advice on evening timings and other parts of your celebration. Overall the most important thing is that you and your guests have fun, so take some time to pick a group that will have you dancing the night away!

Tom Wyman Band leader and director www.therocketscollective.com

Lake Thomas Exquisite bespoke cakes & sweets tailored to your requirements.

0208 942 8782 07774 483 219 sales@ltcakes.co.uk www.ltcakes.co.uk

K1 Classic Car Hire is a new family run business based in the village of Lightwater, Surrey.

We pride ourselves on offering a very personal Chauffeur driven service for weddings around Surrey & the surrounding Hampshire areas. We will ensure we add to the wonderful experience of your special day.

ENQUIRIES WELCOMED Please visit our website or contact us via the below.

07889 557 222 | K1CLASSICCARHIRE@GMAIL.COM K1CLASSICCARHIRE.COM | INSTAGRAM @K1CLASSICCARHIRE

www.chrisblackledgephotography.co.uk

Memorable moments

County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey

READY, SET, POSE!

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www.chrisblackledg ephotography.co.uk

Dave and I were unsure if we wanted to book a pre-wedding shoot as we don’t like our picture being taken and can be quite awkward in front of the camera. I spoke to a few of our married friends and they all recommended booking a shoot, so we decided to go for it. As we got engaged during the last lockdown, we had only met our photographer once over Skype, so we felt the shoot would also be a good way of getting to know him better ready for our big day.

We’d arranged to meet on a beach in Kent, and as I’m sure you can tell from the pictures, it was extremely blustery and cold, so much so we were convinced we would appear blue

in the final shots! Although it wasn’t the perfect weather conditions, the combination of our windswept appearence – my hair must have looked like Medusa – onlookers and relaxed nature of our photographer made the shoot fun!

I was very nervous beforehand, changing my outfit 10 times much to Dave’s annoyance, but once we were there we both felt at ease and had a great time. If you’re debating booking a shoot, I’d highly recommend it.

ACCESSORISE AND SHINE Wedding planning has been pretty straightforward overall, but when it came to choosing my accessories, I felt very overwhelmed. I wouldn’t describe myself as particularly girly, but I wanted something that would make me look beautiful on the day without being overpowering. After hours of shopping, I surprised myself by discovering I have a hidden love for pearls, so when I came across a pearl and floral hair clip, I just knew that I had to have it! I’m planning to finish my look with a pair of pearl earrings and a pendant necklace.

My shoes have also been difficult. I’m 5ft 2ins and Dave is more than 6ft tall, so I was debating whether to wear heels to make the height difference less apparent. All the heels that I loved were really expensive and I was beginning to have nightmares about falling over as I walked down the aisle – I’m not the most gracious person even in flats! So, after looking at countless websites and going into what feels like every shoe shop in Essex, I finally decided to embrace my height and purchased a pair of glittery trainers with satin laces from Kate Spade. Although different to what I had orginally envisaged, I think the look suits my dress and it’s made me feel more relaxed knowing I won’t be going to A&E on the big day.

Lastly, Dave and I went ring shopping – a traditonal wedding element we still wanted

for our nuptials. When we arrived at the jewellers, which was the same branch that Dave purchased my engagement ring from, I was pleasantly surprised to learn they had a matching wedding ring that I, of course, had to have. Luckily we are months ahead of our wedding, however we were made aware that some ring designs can take up to four months to arrive in the store – take note readers that are planning last-minute ‘I dos’!

Dave never wears jewellery, so he was unsure of what style he wanted and all of the different types of metal and cuts were quite overwhelming for him. After doing some research and asking our friends for their opinions, he decided on a plain platinum band that looks great.

Make sure you check out the next issue where I’ll be discussing our search for the perfect entertainment.

Melissa. x

.co.uk dgephotography

his year has flown by, can you believe it’s nearly Christmas? It’s starting to dawn on me that this is my last as a Miss – eek – and July will creep around quickly so the countdown is officially on! My fiancé, Dave, and I have booked most of our suppliers including the venue, photographer and florist and I’ve even found my dress – but there’s still plenty to do!

We’re getting really excited as the day draws closer, and the more I write about all of your beautiful weddings, the more real it seems that we will have our very own wedding day. In this issue, read all about our pre-wedding shoot and my search for the perfect accessories.

www.chrisblackle

T

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

BRIDE’S DIARY

We’ve ordered wooden cutouts of our guests’ names to be used as place names. They look really cute and double up as favours.

Originally, we didn’t want light-up letters, but after seeing a set-up at one of our venue’s wedding shows, we loved the look and have hired them.

Dave and I have purchased an oak direction sign that will greet our guests as they enter our venue.

Although I was against the idea of wearing a veil, I tried one on with my dress and fell in love.

We came across a local company that creates personalised cake toppers, so we’ve decided to order one with figures of us and our cat.

Our venue offers guests a choice of ribbons when they enter the venue, pink if they want people to keep their distance, green if they’re comfortable to shake hands and blue if they are happy to hug. I think it’s a great way of making sure that everyone feels happy and safe on the day.

We’re planning to buy personalised cufflinks for Dave and his best man.

I love this buttonhole wrapped in twine and am going to ask our florist if she can do the same.

For our tables, we’re purchased concrete planters that are shaped like characters from our favourite films and tv shows to add a personal touch to the day.

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07920838542 fredericajoymakeup@hotmail.com

FACES BY FREDDY MAKEUP ARTIST & STYLIST FREDERICA JOY HAYNES

www.rogerbrownphotography.com

@facesbyfreddy www.facesbyfreddy.co.uk

come true VENUE STYLING

A THEME The latest styling trends

W

ith everything that’s been going on in the last year, you may have found it difficult to keep up with the latest styling trends, so to help you plan the perfect celebration, we’ve asked local suppliers to send in some of their top tips and trend predictions.

“As more people have taken time out over the last couple of years and enjoyed the outdoors, nature will play a big role in 2022 weddings.

Earthy tones look set to become an increasingly popular colour palette paired with rich tones inspired by those found in nature.”

– Lucy Wells from Lucy Wells Weddings and Events.

www.lauradownham.co.uk and www.lucywells.co.uk

“Are you one of the lucky ones getting to celebrate your love at Christmas?

Festive weddings are becoming more popular, and there are lots of ways you can make your day extra magical through your décor. Try using wreaths at the venue entrance to create a warm welcome!”

– Tutu Ojo from Prime Violet Events.

www.primevioletevents.com

“Incorporate the festive season by decorating your venue with holly, pinecones and Christmas-inspired greenery.” – Tutu from Prime Violet Events.

www.primevioletevents.com

www.butterfliesandbows.co.uk

“The rustic look is popular at the moment. If you want to create the wow factor, opt for wonderful cascading bouquets full of beautiful roses, orchids and soft flowing greenery with the addition of diamantés and crystals. Use these after the ceremony on the top table and cake tables.” – Annabel Grange from Butterflies and Bows.

www.butterfliesandbows.co.uk

“Create centrepieces using tall glass vases, martini vases or even candelabra.

Alternatively, you could use rustic jam jars or jugs, displays using garlands and large blooms such as roses, hydrangeas, gladiolus, alliums and anthuriums to give a real wow factor.” – Annabel from Butterflies and Bows.

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www.butterfliesandbows.co.uk

www.primevioletevents.com

“Don’t forget about the food and drink.

Eggnog, peppermint and cranberry are perfect for festive weddings, and you could even have your canapés shaped like bows and trees.” – Tutu from Prime Violet Events.

“Use an arch for the ceremony or behind the top table decorated with flowers and greenery. I would also use short square mirror vases set with large roses, hydrangeas and freesias or a bubbly garland brimming with seasonal flowers for the top table.” – Annabel from Butterflies and Bows.

“Faux florals and dried flowers, as well as locally sourced food, will continue to be a big feature in many weddings next year.” – Lucy from Lucy Wells Weddings and Events.

www.butterfliesandbows.co.uk

www.lauradownham.co.uk and www.lucywells.co.uk

www.primevioletevents.com

“Christmas stockings could also double up as place cards and wedding favours.”

– Tutu from Prime Violet Events.

“Drapes and swags of soft voile will soften the look of bare windows or wedding gazebos and can be dressed in flowers, greenery or organza.” – Annabel from Butterflies and Bows.

“In light of the current world situations, we have started to see a focus on sustainability in weddings that I feel will continue to grow in prominence in 2022. Many couples will approach their wedding with a more conscious focus on sustainability making use of locally sourced produce and recyclable materials.” – Lucy from Lucy Wells Weddings and Events.

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VENUE STYLING

“Create a photo opp area with a sparkling backdrop and seasonal props.” – Tutu from Prime Violet Events.

“We will see couples creating laidback luxury on their own doorstep combining elegance and beauty with the comforts of familiar surroundings; perhaps still preferring to keep guest numbers smaller for a more intimate wedding celebration.” – Lucy from Lucy Wells Weddings and Events.

“Did you know that hosting an event around Christmas can mean you spend less on décor, especially if your venue is known to style it out for the season? It’s always helpful to know what decorations they will be using, how they’ll look, and where they’ll be, so they don’t clash with your overall theme and vision of the day. Similarly, don’t assume your venue will have any decorations because some may leave it as a blank canvas for you to kit out, so it’s always good to doublecheck.” – Tutu from Prime Violet Events.

www.primevioletevents.com

www.primevioletevents.com

“As options for nuptials continue to grow, we may also see an increase in weddings at home and garden weddings.” – Lucy from Lucy Wells Weddings and Events.

“Fresh flower garlands or greenery decorated with fairylights on beams, fireplaces, entrance doors, posts or bannisters with the modern twist of uplighters or spotlights added around the room are very on-trend.” – Annabel from Butterflies and Bows.

www.butterfliesandbows.co.uk

www.butterfliesandbows.co.uk

www.paulplacitelliphotography.com and www.lucywells.co.uk

“Chair décor with lacy vertical drops or hoods rather than covers are popular.” – Annabel from Butterflies and Bows.

CONTACT THE EXPERTS

Butterflies and Bows | www.butterfliesandbows.co.uk Prime Violet Events | www.primevioletevents.com Lucy Wells Weddings and Events | www.lucywells.co.uk 73

SUSTAINABLY CHIC

Grace Loves Lace has unveiled its first eco wedding gown called Lumi retailing at £2,200.

It’s constructed from 96% recycled materials and has been ethically handcrafted in the brand’s Australian studio.

Founder and creative director, Megan Ziems, tells us, “We were inspired to take materials that would have been otherwise discarded and use modern technology to create a beautiful wedding gown that holds so much meaning.”

She continues, “The way the dress hugs and supports the body is flawless. The cup shape and wide straps are perfect for small and large busts, the split on the thigh is elongating, the pearlescent threading is visually flattering and the sheer lace panel on the lower back adds drama.”

Launching alongside the gown is the Lumi veil retailing at £390 and crafted from 100% recycled tulle and lace.

To shop, visit www.graceloveslace.com

EDITOR LOVES

Thank your best girls with this cute lolly necklace, £35, www.tattydevine.com

Best-dressed brides

Elbeth Gillis has launched her new collection, Curve. The first capsule collection of 2022 includes five dresses ranging from simple structures with crisp, clean lines to romantic, lavish lace. The gowns feature statement sleeves, beautiful bows and overskirts. To shop, visit www.elbethgillis.com

focus

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

Something new

Vera Wang Bride and Pronovias Group have joined forces to launch their first collection, Vera Wang Bride. The 60 dresses blend artisanal details with luxury textures using premium fabrics and hand-crafted finishes on exaggerated volumes and new silhouettes. Vera Wang says, “I intended to make sure that certain Vera Wang design codes were identifiable in Vera Wang Bride.” She continues, “Through my designs, I want to express respect – respect for the design process. Respect for quality. Respect for imagination and individuality.

But most of all respect for women.”

Standout designs include this Carole style and the wedding gowns will be available in a wide variety of sizes at affordable price points. Sustainable options using eco fabrics and trims also form part of the collection.

To shop, visit www.pronovias.com

Scan to view video

One dress, multiple looks

The RULABELLE multiway collection for bridesmaids has added special-edition styles and a new Ethereal Tulle collection to its range. The versatile collection allows the wearer to express their individuality, personality and sense of style, whatever their shape or silhouette.

To shop, visit www.rulabelle.com

Baby steps

British baby clothing brand Magnet Mouse has designed cute baby grows with magnetic fastenings and ruffle trims perfect for weddings.

Prices start from £24.95, https://magnetmouse.co.uk

TWINKLE TOES

These Cinderella-inspired crystal court shoes called Lovebird, £119, will take you to the ball! Carvela at www.shoeaholics.com

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EAR CANDY

This jewellery advent calendar is a fun way to countdown to a Christmas wedding! Priced at £250, it includes 12 of the brand’s best-selling earring and ear cuff designs crafted from sustainable recycled sterling silver and gold-plated recycled sterling silver. To shop, visit www.screampretty.com

FASHION

Dress up Trousers, statement sleeves, sleek A-line silhouettes and voluminous skirts are just some of the styles that brides will be wearing in 2022

Scan to view video

1970s-inspired trousers and statement sleeves at www.catrionagarforth.com 75

Fantasy free-falling skirt at Vera Wang Bride, www.pronovias.com

Pearly queen-inspired accents at www.christopherkane.com

Knee-length slip dress at https://carmenllaguno.com/collections/bridal

Decadent beading at Madeline Gardner, https://uk.morilee.com/browse/ madeline-gardner

Bustier bodices and visible corsetry at https://uk.morilee.com

Statement necklines at www.pronovias.com

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FASHION

Red carpet-inspired illusion necklines at Allison Webb at JLM Couture, www.jlmcouture.com/designer/allison-webb 77

Chic separates at www.thereformation.com 78

FASHION

Off-the-shoulder style at www.rosaclara.es/en-gb

Dramatic ballgowns at Lillian West, www.justinalexander.com/lillian-west

Minimalist column dresses at www.justinalexander.com

Clean lines at Sincerity, www.justinalexander.com/sincerity-bridal

Short and sweet at Adore, www.justinalexander.com

Cascading tiers at https://costarellos.com 79

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FASHION

e t i wh

NOT ALL These pastel and champagne gowns prove that you don’t have to wear white

Skye dress by https://katefearnley.com 81

Florence dress by www.olwenbourke.com

Style no 66195 by www.justinalexander.com/lillian-west

Pearl rose dress by www.needleandthread.com 82

Cleopatra dress by www.madelinegardnernewyork.com/en

Karlu dress by www.pronovias.com

Style no 21-79 by www.berta.com

Amalia dress

by https://costarellos.com

Toledo dress by www.temperleylondon.com

FASHION

Renae look by www.watters.com/willowby

Waverly dress by www.watters.com/willowby

Fable dress by www.watters.com/willowby

Scan to view video

Rosabel dress by www.watters.com/wtoo/wtoo-brides

Hyacinth dress with orchid-print bell sleeves and orchid skirt, www.halfpennylondon.com 83

DRESSING

We chat to model, television presenter and radio DJ Vogue Williams about her latest venture, Vogue x ROCO, a recently launched collaboration with online children’s formalwear brand ROCO which is her first collection

V

ogue is best known for her presenting roles across mainstream broadcast platforms such as Channel 4’s Steph’s Packed Lunch and Global Player podcast Spencer & Vogue as well as the newly released My Therapist Ghosted Me. Over the past year, Vogue has also landed a weekend show on Heart radio and has previously fronted her popular reality shows on Channel 4 - Spencer, Vogue and Baby Too and Spencer, Vogue and Wedding Two with husband, Spencer Matthews.

Regularly showcasing candid family life to her 855k Instagram followers, Vogue is mum to Theodore and Gigi, both of whom inspired the collection with this British brand and have hero items named after them.

How would you summarise your ROCO edit?

This hand-picked edit of high-quality pieces has been two years in the making. I wanted the 15 stylish looks to be affordable, comfortable and easy for children to wear, so the collection offers a contemporary twist on classic styles for party dressing with trend-led silhouettes available in ice-cream pastel hues offering the perfect fit, designed to make special occasions unforgettable.

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Who is the collection for?

It’s aimed at little ones aged from three months to 14 years. There are cute cotton-mix and linen-style blend dresses, two-piece outfits and suits ideal for celebrations, parties and dressing flowergirls, junior bridesmaids and pageboys at weddings.

How did you find the design process? Did you have a favourite part?

I loved working with Laura (Latif, creative director of ROCO) and the team. I’ve always wanted to create my own children’s wear line so to see the pieces evolve from the initial design meeting is so exciting. I immersed myself

Ewan waistcoat and trouser suit, £50.

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

Molly pink dress, £55.

in the creative process from start to finish, from designing the items to deciding on the colour palettes and finer details.

The team were so easy to work with and it has been so much fun – a dream come true!

If you had to choose, what’s your favourite piece from the collection?

I love them all! The Margaux pink skirt and white top combination with a statement bow at the back looks so pretty.

It’s your little girl’s birthday party, what ROCO dress would you choose and why?

I named the pink ruffle-neck Gigi babygrow after my daughter so it would have to be this!

To shop, visit www.roco.co.uk You’ve got a summer wedding coming up, which ROCO outfit for a boy would you suggest and why?

The Theodore blue-check dungarees are so smart teamed with a short-sleeved shirt! I named them after my son.

Gigi babygrow, £35.

Theodore two-piece, £55.

Let’s shop, www.roco.co.uk www.instagram.com/rococlothing www.facebook.com/rococlothing www.twitter.com/rococlothing 85

LUXE LIPS

If you’re looking for a dramatic shade of lippy to make an impact as you walk down the aisle, check out the four new shades from Victoria Beckham Beauty’s Posh Lipstick collection. Fire is a blazing red orange, Jump is a mid-tone cool rose, Spark is a mid-tone warm rose and Twist is a light neutral pink. Each one is inspired by and named in reference to one of Victoria’s personal memories.

These lipsticks offer pure luxury with rich colour, deep moisture, soft shine and sophisticated design, all in a supremely clean, vegan formula – everything the 2020s bride needs.

You’ll find them at www.victoriabeckhambeauty.com, for £34 each.

PERFECT POUT

Recently launched into the UK, the Agave+ collection is BITE’s best-selling range and has gained cult-status in the U.S. Its Weekly Lip Scrub (£22) and Nightime Lip Therapy (£23) provide a luxury experience for your pout, giving lips the TLC they deserve. After all, beauty prep for your big day is about giving your make-up artist the very best canvas to work with and lip treatment is an important part of that. So, renew, replenish and hydrate to the max with this caring, clean, vegan product.

Find it at www.feelunique.co.uk and www.boots.com

Beauty

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

LIGHT AND SHADE

A new addition to the Lush range of perfumes, Shade offers a burst of warmth with comforting sandalwood.

A fragrance with a conscience, each essential oil has its own story to tell including sandalwood from West Timor, which is extracted from protected and sustainable trees. It’s also made using a new source of olibanum oil from the Dayaxa region in Somaliland. It has full traceability down to the harvester level, with every step of the process being mapped on blockchain. In fact, Lush is working with its supplier to kickstart a project to train local women in small-scale olibanum oil distillation, a first in the community.

Find it online at www.lush.com, where it’s priced at £25 for 30ml.

FEEL FLAWLESS

Speak to any wedding make-up artist and they’ll most likely tell you that primer is a must, which is why I wanted to share with you my latest discovery: Super Facialist Skin Perfecting Primer (£17). This little beauty creates a flawless-looking complexion using trusted skincare ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, and colour-correcting pigments. It cleverly blurs imperfections by counteracting the three most common concerns of redness, sallowness and dullness, while simultaneously working to bring back skin’s natural radiance.

Find out more at www.superfacialist.co.uk 86

BUZZ

BACK TO ITS ROOTS

Molton Brown was born in the 1970s as a hair salon based in the heart of London’s shopping district on South Molton Street, which was frequented by the Rolling Stones and many other icons of the day. Creators Caroline Bernstein and her husband would hand mix all formulations in the basement, with conscious care for the environment at the forefront of the brand’s values even then.

Now, on the brand’s 50th anniversary it has re-introduced hair care to its range. The collection contains four tailored collections, each with a botanical at the core of its formulation: balancing, volumising, hydrating and repairing. This approach means you can strategically build a healthy-hair routine into your big-day prep depending on the needs of your locks.

Check out www.moltonbrown.co.uk

BEAUTY NEWS

SUPER SKIN

Skin Republic has launched an exciting range of new 30ml serums hailed as a more sustainable way to mask. Its award-winning serum-drenched sheet mask range is renowned for high quality on-trend ingredients, so the brand was keen to continue innovating to deliver more environmentally-conscious results.

The three superheroes are packed full of high concentration actives – Hyaluronic Acid 1% + Niacinamide Serum, Vitamin C 6% + Alpha Arbutin Serum, and Retinoid Complex 1% + Squalene 15% Serum. Each one has been scientifically formulated to target three primary skin concerns: dryness, pigmentation and ageing.

Priced at £14.99 each, they’re available at www.theskinrepublic.co.uk

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON

At times life can leave us all busy, stressed and unable to switch off, which is where the new 5 Minute Acupressure Foot Mat from 100 per cent natural aromatherapy lifestyle brand Scentered can help. Our feet have 26 bones, 100 ligaments, 20 muscles and a very complex network of nerves and blood supply. But they’re often overlooked, despite being the powerhouse of wellbeing for our bodies. So, this innovative offering can help you to relax, release tension and bring calm to your day through it’s five-minute therapeutic experience. Equally, if you often find yourself in need of a morning boost, it can be used alongside a supportive aromatherapy balm, allowing you to unblock trapped energy.

Priced at £35 the set is lightweight, washable, portable and super-easy to store. It also comes complete with a choice of one of Scentered’s best-selling aromatherapy blends. Find it at https://scentered.com

EDITOR LOVES

In my humble opinion Kristin Ess The One Signature Shampoo and The One Signature Conditioner are nothing short of miraculous! I won’t lie, my hair was in an embarrassing state when I decided to give these a go. I’d been swimming three days on the bounce – down water slides, through rapids, the works! My locks were a huge matted, straw-like mess. But with just one application the shampoo lathered like a dream and after leaving the conditioner in for the recommended three minutes, even wet my hair started to feel less knotty.

I usually dread having to drag the brush through my hair after I’ve washed it, but in no time flat it was knot-free, smooth and ready to dry. Shiny, soft and looking their best, the state of my locks pre-Kristin Ess were a distant memory. This is definitely my new favourite hair routine and at £8 each they won’t break the bank. My advice? Head over to www.boots.com and pop them in your basket immediately!

NATURE’S HARVEST

When Estée Lauder created Youth-Dew bath oil in 1953, she revolutionised the fragrance industry and 75 years later, the brand is carrying on her legacy with the introduction of a new luxury fragrance collection. Each of the eight scents is inspired by nature’s most breathtaking moments such as the radiance of a sunset and the mystery of a moonlit flower. What’s more, Estée Lauder’s new ScentCapture Fragrance Extender technology is specially formulated to allow each perfume to last up to 12 hours after a single application – that should get you from vows to dancefloor no problem.

The new Luxury Fragrance Collection (£130 100ml, £68 40ml) is available at Estée Lauder counters nationwide and at www.esteelauder.co.uk

THE EYES HAVE IT

READY OR KNOT

The Detangling Mist is the newest product in The Hair Boss’ award-winning range. The brand, founded by Lisa Shepherd, former British Hairdresser of the Year, simplifies hair care into a four-step routine, and this newbie fits tidily into part three. With life getting busier by the second, this is the quick, on-the-go answer to dry, unruly hair.

Targeted to fix frizzy and damaged locks, it’s designed to smooth and strengthen, while protecting your hair and preventing breakage. Lisa says, “In between washes, The Detangling Mist will soften the hair, taming any unruly knots and re-adding the shine that it’s lost since the last wash.”

Priced at £8.99, it’s available at https://thehairboss.co.uk

They say the eyes are the window to the soul, so they’re for sure a feature to make the most of on the big day. For those looking for longer lashes and full brows, The B Collection has launched its Lash & Brow Serum (£8.99). This all-natural, vegan, cruelty-free product nourishes and stimulates growth in these two key areas for eyes that’ll pop as you say “I do.”

Use every night before bed following your usual skincare routine and wash off in the morning – super-easy. You can also use it during the day to set your brows in place.

We love anything with a dual purpose!

Find it at https://thebcollection.co.uk 87

From the INSIDE OUT

We caught up with owner and founder of Simone Thomas Wellness, Simone herself, to discover how taking care of yourself from the inside out is the ultimate path to wedding wellness

T

he impact stress and anxiety can have on our bodies should never be underestimated.

So, the pandemic has a lot to answer for, even outside of Covid itself. If you’re finding that months of lockdown and wedding-related stress have taken their toll, you’re certainly not alone.

Sadly, anxiety-induced skin concerns and even hair loss can quickly leave you feeling pretty far from your big-day best.

Enter award-winning authority on hair health and wellness Simone Thomas, who’s spent her career sharing her expertise in nutrition, hairloss and bio-energetics. Alongside hair salons and hair-loss clinics, which boast an elite global clientele that includes royalty, celebrities and CEOs; she’s also the founder of Simone Thomas Wellness. We asked Simone for her help in guiding you back onto the path of wedding wellness.

Based on your experience, what challenges are nearlyweds facing in the aftermath of the pandemic?

2020 had a huge affect on the wedding industry with 64 per cent of big days being cancelled or postponed, which means stress levels for everyone involved are now at an alltime high. A wedding is an important day that couples have invested a lot of time and money in, it’s something they’ve dreamed of. So, this is all having a negative impact on how we feel and how we sleep, with our skin and hair responding to that. A bad hair or skin day isn’t great at any time, let alone when the camera is constantly on you and you want to feel your best.

What the last year has taught us though is

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WELLNESS INTERVIEW to start working on yourself? You don’t have to go all out, but you might start looking at a nutrition plan, exercising or having hydra facials. However, I fully recognise there may be financial restraints, so this might not always be possible. In which case, I’d say three months is optimal, but the minimum is six weeks in advance. This way there’s time to flush out any nasties and create balance allowing the body to become stronger and progress. Many tell me they start to see a difference within two weeks. how to take a step back and invest in ourselves, as we often don’t listen to what our bodies need. At Simone Thomas Wellness, we’ve seen a huge increase in clients asking for advice on nutrition and bioenergetics, as well as hair loss.

There’s also been a rise in skin conditions like psoriasis, acne, dermatitis of the scalp, eczema, telogen effluvium and alopecia areata, which is commonly linked to stress and hormones.

In fact, stress has a huge knock on effect on our hormones as women. But men too are experiencing skin complaints and suffering hair loss. So, people preparing for their big days have really been struggling during lockdown.

How can we turn this around – where do we start?

What I always say is that everything starts in the gut. If you look after that, the body will look after you. I call it The Mothership. Poor gut health is the start of disease and can be linked to degenerative disorders, so it really should be the number one priority if you’re looking to feel the best version of yourself.

Everyday Wellness, part of the Simone Thomas Wellness range, is a super-strength probiotic supplement containing six types of probiotics to improve gut health by introducing both good and bad bacteria, vital on a day-today basis. When I say “bad bacteria” people often ask me, why anyone would want that, but the body needs diversity to become stronger.

These supplements also help to reduce the inflammation that occurs naturally in a body.

Food can be a trigger, as can poor sleep patterns, stress, and the environment. Here, we’re focusing on removing any nasties so they don’t get absorbed into the cells.

What advice would you give to those looking to achieve that natural-looking bridal glow without a face full of make-up?

Skin Quencher is great for anyone wanting to feel youthful or who’s keen to avoid wearing lots for make-up. It’ll work from the inside out to give you that ultimate bridal glow.

I’m also a huge fan of facials, but it’s more about what we put into our body rather than what we put on top of it. You have to work on yourself internally for the outside to glow. Yes, skincare products are going to have an effect, but if the inside isn’t right, it won’t be long term.

Biotin Brilliance too helps with mild skin irritation caused by stress. You may already have heard about biotins, they’re a B vitamin and have been talked about for a number of years as being vital for healthy skin, hair and nails.

What can you suggest for brides, and bridesmaids, looking to grow their hair for a wedding?

Our Ginkgo Biloba B+ plan contains folic acid with essential B vitamins and biotin, but if you don’t suffer from tiredness, then the biotin haircare plan is great for maintenance.

Alternatively, if you have no specific worries about hair loss, but want to feel the best version of yourself, taking no chances with stress, Skin Quencher is great too. These plans are also great for grooms concerned about hair loss.

What are the benefits of a haircare plan versus a single supplement?

I formulated the plans because I learnt from experience that most people’s concept of what’s healthy actually isn’t. Most of us will happily invest in skincare and clothes, but not in how we feel internally. I think of the plans as a three-step process, much like a garden. To grow beautiful flowers, you need sunlight, amazing soil, and water. So, the probiotics are the ultimate go to, but there’s no point if you’re a fan of microwave meals or Macdonald’s. Unless you cook from scratch, you’re throwing away the goodness you’re putting into the body with the probiotics.

Pairing them with Super Greens and Ginkgo Biloba B+ or Biotin Brilliance is then all about preparing the gut, balancing the body and removing toxins, as well as making sure you create the best environment for vitamin and mineral absorption.

The most important step though is water: filtered versus tap, glass bottle versus plastic.

Purely because of what can be absorbed through plastic as well as unfortunately what’s in mainstream water that comes through the tap.

Tell us a bit about the company’s ethos.

Supplements are a big industry, but they’ve often received bad press because the products simply don’t do what they claim to. So, these are all things we’ve addressed across everything we do from the ingredients to manufacturing. We make sure that every process has full certification, including soil association and vegan accreditation. We’ve worked hard to ensure our products are vegan and our marine collagen is protected and sourced ethically.

Everything is sustainable as much as possible.

When our bottles are finished with they get made into tiles and flooring, and the packaging too is eco-friendly. Even the energy used in my office is renewable. We’re proud of the fact that recently we were responsible for 25 trees being planted in the rainforest due to our renewable energy contract.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Simone’s book, Healthy Hair Happy Body, contains her comprehensive and motivational plan to transform wellbeing from the inside out. In each chapter she introduces concepts that provide insight into how the body functions, and what really makes a difference to achieving optimum health, sharing how tiny adjustments over time can lead to better results. It’s available at www.amazon.co.uk, priced at £15, with £1 going to Motor Neurone Disease Association.

The Biotin Haircare Plan, £70; The Ginkgo Haircare Plan, £70; and SkinQuencher, £35

by Simone Thomas Wellness, are all available at https://simonethomaswellness.com

When would be the ideal time to start taking supplements in order to feel wedding-ready?

To me there’s never a day too early! Most couples will start planning a year to two years in advance, so why not use the same timeline 89

Beauty

Q&A

Local experts offer advice on how to look your big-day best

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

I have an outdoor job, and my skin really suffers in the winter. How can I repair the ravages of the cold and wind in time for my spring wedding?

Skin gets dry in the winter because it’s more likely to lose moisture in the cold air. The environment zaps moisture from the skin, leaving it flaky, sensitive and it can be tight and itchy as well.

The elements interfere with the skin’s tolerance and upset its hydrophilic film. Reinforce its natural deferences by visiting a skincare clinic for facials to replenish moisture, vitamins and antioxidants.

A good home remedy would be a nourishing sheet mask once a week in between any facials.

Invest in a rich night oil to use under your face creams. My alltime favourite is Clarins Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil. It sinks in beautifully, smells heavingly and doesn’t leave any oily residue.

Amy Lacey Hair and make-up artist www.amylacey.co.uk

ICE QUEEN

How can I incorporate our winter theme into my hair and make-up?

Two options spring to mind. Use russet, gold and deep red on your eyes and lips finished with a red velvet cape.

Alternatively, for a complete contrast, you could opt for ice whites and blues. Frosty hues on your eyes topped with a white velvet cape is a fun way to create a snowy princess-inspired look.

Linda Leonard Hair and make-up artist www.lindaleonardhairandmakeup.uk 90

BRIDAL BY

Beckah

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WIN

A FUN-FILLED SLEEPOVER FOR EIGHT GUESTS AT WHITLEY HALL, YORKSHIRE

W

hitley Hall Hotel may be among the North’s most historic and beautiful wedding venue hotels. This stunning Yorkshire stone mansion, where peacocks stroll in the grounds, boasts both Tudor and 18th-century origins – it’s rumoured that Mary, Queen of Scots was once a house guest in the West Wing! The two four-poster suites are particularly delightful for a romantic stay but each of the 32 rooms are superbly designed to complement the hotel’s rich and important history.

With its new purpose-built Whitley Suite, offering state-of-the-art facilities, including a heated outdoor terrace, (capacity 110/160 guests), along with the original Parker Suite (capacity 110/175), Whitley Hall is perhaps one of the largest venues in the region. Its new exclusive ‘Secret Garden Folly’ is a real showstopper where you can exchange vows with a natural backdrop, or simply use this space for an outdoor drinks reception which can be spectacular come dusk and into the evening.

There’s also the option to take over the whole hotel as an exclusiveuse venue (capacity 400) and there are semi-exclusive use options also available.

Attention to detail, combined with a warm Yorkshire welcome, make a stay at this four-star hotel a real pleasure. The restaurant serves an array of mouth-watering dishes prepared with the very finest local produce. The hotel, which is close to the motorway yet benefits from the most tranquil rural setting, can be used as a handy base to explore the stunning Chatsworth House estate and its surrounding towns and villages 92

in the Peak District such as Bakewell, Eyam and Buxton; Sheffield and the shopping centre at Meadowhall are also popular attractions.

Visit www.whitleyhall.com | www.instagram.com/whitleyhallhotel

PRIZE: Our lucky prize winner will enjoy a luxurious overnight with a group of close friends and family at this historic country house hotel. Indulge in a mini dessert selection with tea or coffee upon arrival, a chilled bottle of Prosecco is in each room, plus ‘pamper hampers’, robes and slippers to make the most of a fun and relaxing stay, which also includes threecourse dinner in the evening in the hotel restaurant and full traditional English breakfast the following morning. Early check in (2pm) and late check out (11am) make for a more leisurely stay.

HOW TO ENTER: For your chance to win, simply answer the following question: What is the name of the new purpose-built wedding suite?

Enter online at yoursurrey.wedding Closing date 4th February 2022, unless otherwise stated.

Terms and Conditions apply. Please see our website for details.

A nose for it

GROOMS’ NEWS

A citrus, marine, woody fragrance grooms wearing this can expect top notes of Italian bergamot and pink pepper, hearty notes of marine accord and grey amber and base notes of patchouli and wood.

Montblanc Explorer Ultra Blue is priced: £32.50 (30ml), £51.50 (60ml), £71.50 (100ml) check out www.johnlewis.com

COLOUR SWATCH

Timex Watches are pleased to introduce three new colourways to its muchloved Q Timex Reissue Series. A natural evolution of the Q Timex the new launches add a pop of colour to the iconic 1979 original. Available to buy now for £159 at www.timex.co.uk

Grooms’ NEWS All the latest news and product launches

SUIT UP

Savile Row has a great selection of new suits for the expected bumper wedding season post-lockdowns. With a range to match all budgets, whether you’re the groom or a groomsman, here at CWM HQ we particularly love this on-trend Grey Navy Check Wool Suit (£349) that’s been made from 100% wool and can be paired with a white shirt and black Derby shoes. Check out: https://savilerowco.com/wedding

TOP 5 UNDER £50

Gifting and accessory specialists Farrar & Tanner (www.farrar-tanner.co.uk) has curated a list of gift ideas containing a combination of personalised, practical and fun products which all encompass an element of luxury for your wedding day.

BARBOUR TARTAN HANDKERCHIEF BOX SET, £30

KITCHEN CRAFT ACACIA WOOD MAGNETIC KNIFE RACK, £30

These three organic cotton handkerchiefs, woven in Barbour’s classic tartan, will add a stylish country-chic touch to your attire.

The rack has multiple purposes including freeing up space in drawers and serving as a design element. This would make a wonderful present for someone with culinary interest.

SEASONAL OFFERING

Celtic & Co has launched a whole host of new season products perfect for grooms.

Featuring a billfold construction, its new wallet is crafted in soft leather embossed with a crocodile motif to match other accessories in the collection. It has a full-length zipped compartment and 11 card slots, a clear ID window, a note pocket and a coin pocket with a secure popper closure.

Complete with cotton lining, this compact accessory will keep your cards and cash in fine order for the big day, honeymoon and beyond. Priced, £34, check out www.celticandco.com

BARBOUR AYDON MANICURE KIT, £35 This manicure kit is an absolute staple in any man’s washbag; inside the leather and tartan case, you will find five tools – nail clippers, scissors, tweezers, cuticle pushers and file – personalisation is also available.

VICTORINOX EXECUTIVE MANOPOULOS WALNUT WOOD 81 WALNUT WOOD BACKGAMMON SWISS ARMY KNIFE, £40 SET, £49 Combining luxury with practicality, the Evowood has five essential everyday tools including a stainless-steel blade and serrated scissors.

The board itself is compact for travelling on honeymoon with thick, high walls and side racks to ensure all pieces are safe ‒ personalisation is available.

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! e s a ple

CHECK

Look dashing in this on trend print

www.charlestyrwhitt.com 94

GROOMS’ FASHION

£290, trousers, https://favourbrook.com

£69.99, www.farlows.co.uk

£140, www.tmlewin.co.uk

£69.95, www.schoffelcountry.com

£poa, www.next.co.uk

£299.95, www.schoffelcountry.com

£660, https://harrisdistillery.com

£17.99, www.shoezone.com

£349, https://savilerowco.com 95

s w e N

HONEYMOON NORTH YORKSHIRE

Hornington Manor, a North Yorkshire wedding venue, has welcomed eight themed shepherd ‒ perfect for newlyweds looking for a private retreat.

Each hut takes inspiration from Yorkshire and beyond, with themes ranging from Arabia to the 1940s they offer complete escapism as well as a luxury kingsize Harrison Spinks bed, television, kitchenette, wifi, an en suite with shower and breathtaking views to boot!

The Amy Johnson hut is an ode to one of Yorkshire’s finest female pilots, reflecting Johnson’s love of 1930s fashion, flying and adventure. To view the rest of the huts and to book your stay visit www.horningtonmanor.co.uk

CUMBRIA

Gisland Hall Hotel, Cumbria, is having a five-star renovation enhancing it’s three-star offering. Providing the perfect base for outdoorsy types – in the year of the Great British staycation – explore the area by car, on foot or by bike. It’s close to UNESCO World Heritage sites along Hadrian’s Wall, Carlisle, Gretna, Hexham and Newcastle.

The property sits proudly in 140 acres and in Spring 2022, it will offer luxury suites and family rooms with patios ideal for those with pets! There’ll be an array of guest experiences, amenities, event spaces and luxury Spa facilities, making it the ideal retreat for couples, groups of friends and family gatherings.

In the meantime, the hotel in its existing incarnation is available for affordable staycations at only £80pp (based on two sharing) for three-course dinner, bed and breakfast. Check out www.gilslandhall.com

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UK SPECIAL

NORTHERN IRELAND

Galgorm Resort & Spa, the multi award-winning spa resort in Ballymena, is an ideal minimoon location. At the resort, you will experience complete post-wedding relaxation and luxury with an indulgent choice of dining options in three on-site restaurants. What’s more there’s a gin bar with more than 400 gins, a Thermal Village Spa and Serenity Garden (which is the first of it’s kind in Ireland).

From its enviable corner location within the original manor house, couples will be in awe of Suite 1857. It offers unrivalled views of the cascading waters of the River Maine complete with Juliet balcony. With a truly romantic design: a muted palette of brocade wall coverings, antique lighting, French baroque furniture and solid oak floors and roof beams, it’s a sight to behold ‒ a traditional freestanding bath with claw feet and separate shower complete the space.

Here are two new offers for a minimooners: a two-night dining retreat from £520 and a two-night spa retreat from £700 for two! Check out www.galgorm.com

HONEYMOON NEWS

LAKE DISTRICT

A chic country house hotel in the picture-perfect village of Grasmere, Victorian House Hotel is launching a Stargazer Experience for the perfect finishing touch to romantic post-wedding minimoons. The Stargazer Experience costs £15pp and includes a backpack and waterproof rug to borrow, a map to the viewing spot, homemade sausage rolls, a generous tipple of Whiskey Mac, a Red Torch specifically designed with map reading and stargazing in mind so guests can flick between the map and the night sky with ease, plus binoculars and a star guide.

Couples can choose from Stargazer Rooms complete with telescopes, star maps, dreamy beds, good coffee, organic teas and generous Land & Water toiletries; there’s also a luxurious Shepherds Hut for two on the riverbank.

Available all year round ‒ but stargazing in the Lakes is particularly good in the autumn and winter ‒ an overnight stay costs from £123 per room per night including breakfast. Visit www.victorianhousehotel.co.uk

LONDON

https://andrewbeasley.co.uk

CO.ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND

For discerning travellers planning a romantic getaway, the newly opened The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat is idyllic. Oozing character, it offers sumptuous yet comfortable accommodation, fine dining, a stylish bar and a moodenhancing outdoor spa.

The Rabbit is a fusion of modern living with country life comprising 33 bedrooms in four different stylish room types with scandi-inspired, retro design. Each boasts seriously comfy beds, a Nespresso machine, Dyson hairdryer and a Marshall amp, not to mention fluffy robes and flip flops for a trip to the spa: The Relaxation Burrow. The latter has been carefully created for optimum zen comprising Swedish sauna, aroma steam room, salt chamber, outdoor Roman baths, loungers and cabanas – there’s also a man-made beach and lake bar!

The offers at The Rabbit Hotel include the ‘Hop to It’ break from £180 per night based on two people sharing including access to The Relaxation Burrow, bottle of bubbles in your room and breakfast the following morning Check out www.rabbithotel.com

Boutique hotel, The Londoner, has officially opened its doors in the heart of London’s iconic Leicester Square. With a staggering 350 guest rooms spread across 16 storeys and a subterranean series of spaces, it will certainly leave guests amazed. Designed in collaboration with world-renowned architectural designers Yabu Pushelberg, the luxury urban resort features a range of rooms, suites, penthouses, two private screening rooms, an entire floor dedicated to wellness, expansive ballroom, private art gallery and to top it off a mix of several concept eateries. This includes its signature Mediterranean restaurant, Whitcomb’s, plus a contemporary Japanese lounge bar with a rooftop terrace and its neighbourhood bar, Joshua’s Tavern – minimooners would never have to leave for the ultimate staycation!

Whilst super in scale, its boutique approach and commitment to hospitality offers the highest levels of luxury with an experience designed to make every guest feel at home. Check out www.thelondoner.com

SURREY

Crockers Henley, based in Henley-on-Thames, is celebrating a year in businesses, although it’s been a year like no other! Only an hour from London, Crockers Henley presents understated luxury at its finest and provides the ultimate staycation destination. Housed in a Grade II listed building, it’s home to seven elegantly designed, contemporary bedrooms complete with rolltop baths, four-poster beds and restored heritage Georgian features.

A delight for foodies and those with a discerning palate, The Grill, overseen by Tom Westerland, is a hive of activity offering a casual dining affair including the famed chateaubriand and Tom’s take on English classics. Meanwhile, the two 16-seat Chef’s Tables each present an immersive dining experience over ten courses. The Thames Table, overseen by talented young chef Alex Payne, celebrates the best of modern British dining whilst The Gardiner’s, with Iain Dixon at the helm, shines light on delicate and complex pan-Asian flavours.

Starting from £400, inclusive of dinner at one of the Chef’s Tables, overnight stay and three-course breakfast, based on two sharing. Check out https://henley.crockersuk.com 97

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022 ON SALE: 4th February, 2022

Your Surrey Wedding is just one of our many County Wedding titles − find out more on our website www.yoursurrey.wedding We love featuring local couples and companies. If you want to get in touch email editor@county.wedding for your chance to grace the pages of next issue

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Not just Travell (Agency) Ltd is a division (or trading name) of Hays Travel Ltd. 25 Vine Place, Sunderland. Company Reg 1990682.

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A LONDON WEDDING VENUE LIKE NO OTHER

Situated within 125 acres of National Trust parkland this 18th-century country house offered on an exclusive use basis.

Leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind you and step into a world of tranquillity and natural beauty.

Morden Hall exudes elegance, charm and sophistication, making this a truly spectacular place to celebrate.

With intimate ceremony rooms where your loved ones can watch you take your vows, a dining room flooded with natural light and landscaped gardens for you to take in your idyllic surroundings, Morden Hall offers everything you could wish for and more for your special day.

Morden Hall is situated in Morden, South London with its own tube station (Morden) just a 5-minute walk away and is the end of the Northern line. It is also just 10 minutes from the A3 connecting you to Surrey and close-by to places such as Wimbledon and Richmond

0208 1020553 | weddings@mordenhall.com | www.mordenhall.com | 21 MORDEN HALL ROAD

LONDON

@mordenhallweddings

SM4 5JD