Your West Midlands Wedding - Dec/Jan 2023/24 (Issue 89) by County Wedding Magazines

WEST MIDLANDS

All eyes ON YOU

Expert beauty advice

Trend

ALERT!

WEDDING

WIN! A honeymoon in Rhodes

Dreamy

ROMANCE Stunning real weddings

A touch of frost

Tie the knot in a winter wonderland

DEC 23/JAN 24

The latest wedding dress styles

£3.55

Your perfect day —

A T

S T O C K T O N

H O U S E

—

Nestled in the beauty of Shropshire’s rolling countryside, the Apley Estate proudly presents Stockton house, our stunning 18th century grade II listed venue. With it’s stylish Georgian design, walled garden dining room, elegant bar and spacious terrace, it has been lovingly restored with guest comfort in mind.

WHAT’S INCLUDED • Exclusive use of the whole house and grounds including seven luxurious bedrooms • A breath-taking wedding suite • Civil ceremony facilities for both indoor and outdoor weddings

• Full use of our walled garden dining room • A complimentary menu tasting with your own personal chef

S T O C K T O N

• Crockery, cutlery, tableware and glassware

• Breakfast the next day for the happy couple

enquiries@stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk H O U S E

• Tables, chairs and linen laid to your chosen wedding breakfast floor plan

• A dedicated wedding planner

01952 730894

N O R T O N

S H I F N A L

stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk S H R O P S H I R E

T F 1 1

9 E F

stockton_house

www.danfoley.co.uk

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2023/2024

CONTENTS

REGULARS 6 EDITOR’S LETTER

What to look out for in this issue

9 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on the latest from around the West Midlands

13 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

53 HOT TOPIC Our experts answer your questions

93 COMPETITION Win a mini-moon in Rhodes worth £1,300

VENUES

15 SPOTLIGHT ON HEREFORDSHIRE, WORCESTERSHIRE & SHROPSHIRE Discover some of the best venues in the area

19 WALKING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND Tie the knot in a gorgeous venue perfect for a festive celebration

On the cover...

This issue’s cover is sponsored by Alveston Manor (www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/alveston-manor). It’s from Rebecca and Bradley’s June 2023 wedding, which was captured by Emily Jayne Weddings (www.emilyjayneweddings.co.uk). To see more from their wedding, turn to page 25.

FEATURES 43 PLANNING SOS

How to create your dream wedding

49 AS PRETTY AS A FLOWER A group of local suppliers worked together to create a soft, floral theme for this styled shoot at Church Farm Anslow

55 INTIMATE ROMANCE A team of talented suppliers worked together to create this beautiful styled shoot at the Anglican Chapel

65 ALL EYES ON YOU Tips to ensure you look your best on the big day

www.emilyjayneweddings.co.uk

www.artisanxphotography.co.uk

REAL WEDDINGS 25 ONCE UPON A TIME

Rebecca knew instantly that Bradley was her prince charming

FASHION & BEAUTY

58 FASHION FOCUS

30 PERFECT PITCH Me’sha and Darren met when he auditioned to be the drummer in her band

37 WE BELONG TOGETHER Lauren and Jon incorporated their love of sage and champagne into their big-day styling at Royle Forest Weddings

The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches

GROOMS

59 IN VOGUE

The latest best buys and product launches

These model looks showcase the hottest bridal trends for 2024, with delicate details, texture takeovers and playful shorter styles

83 MANE ATTRACTION

70 PARTY PIECES

82 GROOMS’ NEWS

Influencer Eyal Booker and his brother Ariel reveal their top hair care tips for grooms-to-be

Dazzle at a Christmas or winter wedding in stunning silver and crystal accessories

84 DRESSED TO KILL

71 A TOUCH OF COLOUR

Winter isn’t about wearing a white wedding dress, pick a fruit-pastel inspired shade or something a little bolder

Channel your inner James Bond with these black-tie options for the groom-to-be

74 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with the latest must-haves

76 BEAUTY QUEEN

78 WELL GROUNDED If wedding planning stress is getting the better of you, take this time-out with Ground Wellbeing’s Peigin Crowley

80 FASHION & BEAUTY Q&A Local professionals solve your problems 4

www.adam-tranter.com

We chat to Hannah Martin about her new book, Makeup, and all things bridal beauty

HONEYMOONS 86 HONEYMOON NEWS

Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials

88 THE ITALIAN DREAM Discover the delights of Sardinia with a stay at the impressive Forte Village

90 AN ICONIC ISLAND A honeymooners’ paradise, Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Montego Bay have it all

92 WHAT A TREAT! The stylish Retreat at Elcot Park is country-house comfort at its best

HARVEY NICHOLS, 65 WHARFSIDE ST, MAILBOX, BIRMINGHAM B1 1RE INFO@THEWEDDING-CLUB.CO.UK 0121 440 8276 @TheWedding_Club theweddingclubofficial

theweddingclubuk

WWW.THEWEDDING-CLUB.CO.UK theweddingclub theweddingclubofficial theweddingclubofficial theweddingclubofficial

ADVERTISING Account Manager Kirsty Brindley | 01376 538 490 kirsty.brindley@county.wedding

EDITORIAL Senior Editor Melissa Cullen | 01376 535 611 melissa.cullen@county.wedding

Festive cheer J

ust like that, it’s the end of another year. I don’t know about you, but the older I get, the quicker time seems to fly by. It seems like only yesterday that I was writing about my upcoming wedding, and here we are over a year later. If you’ve recently become engaged and the wedding feels like it’s forever away, trust me, it will be here before you know it. The best piece of advice I can offer is to enjoy the planning process and celebrate the small things. If you’ve said yes to the dress or booked that special venue that you’ve had your eye on, take the time to celebrate – go out on a date, treat yourselves, and make a scrapbook of those key moments. Once the wedding is over, you’ll love having those memories to look back on. It’s been wonderful seeing the wedding industry flourish again this year. I’ve loved seeing your nuptials, businesses beginning to return to normal, and new companies opening their doors, so to celebrate and end the year with a bang, we’ve gone all out with an issue full of must-see venues, photography and wedding dresses.

Read all about the latest openings and honeymoon destinations for couples post-vows.

Happy planning! DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding

Melissa x

WIN

Melissa Cullen, Senior Editor

We know how stressful planning a wedding can be, so to help, we’ve asked local experts for their advice.

Check out the hottest bridal trends for 2024, with delicate details, texture takeovers, and playful shorter styles.

A romantic break in Rhodes, Greece, worth £1,300.

@CountyWeddingMagazines @CountyWeddings

www.gracedovephotography.com

@countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com

Your West Midlands Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Events & Publishing Ltd. 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 West Midlands Wedding is published six times a year. ISSN 1759-4723

MEDIA

EVENTS &

PUBLISHING

VENTS

PUBLISHING

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

With trends constantly changing and the added pressure of looking your best, we understand how overwhelming the wedding planning process can be. To help make things a bit easier, we’ve asked suppliers for their top beauty tips.

www.adam-tranter.com

Lauren and Jon met on a train in 2013 and spoke for a few months before the relationship fizzled out. They met again three years later at a train station, went for drinks, and the rest is history.

www.artisanxphotography.co.uk

Me’sha and Darren are both musicians who met when she was performing her original music at Shepherds Bush Cricket Club. Years later, Darren proposed on New Year’s Eve while they were watching TV and welcoming in the New Year.

www.emilyjayneweddings.co.uk

A team of local suppliers created a soft, floral theme for this styled shoot to highlight the natural charm of a tipi while adding an element of romance and elegance.

The Grade II-listed Anglican Chapel was built in 1847 using Hartshill stone in a Norman style. The chapel has undergone extensive restoration and is now beautifully equipped with underfloor heating, bronze casement double glazing, and all the facilities to accommodate a range of events, meetings, and ceremonies. To highlight its beauty, a team of local suppliers worked together to create this beautiful styled shoot.

www.gabrielasphotographyandfilm.com

EDITOR’S LETTER

www.danfoley.co.uk

55 www.ambermariephotography.co.uk

Looking for the perfect venue for your wedding? Check out our Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire venues feature for heaps of inspiration.

Rebecca and Bradley met in March 2020, but after five dates, lockdown hit, and they spent the next few months talking via FaceTime, and at that point, they knew they were meant to be. 7

Images: Monkeymole Photography, monkeymole.co.uk

Hidden away in the heart of England, with a harmonious balance of Country House grandeur and modern twists, Alrewas Hayes is the idyllic setting to say ‘I do’.

Burton-on-Trent DE13 7DL info@alrewashayes.com 01283 791625

w w w . a L r e w a s h ay e s . c o m

Bridal Hair & Makeup Pampering Spa Day Proms & Events Hair and Makeup Parties Corporate Wellbeing Events Pamper Experiences for Two Luxury Hair & Beauty Treatments Nail Art / Henna

LUXURIOUS PAMPERING, ANYWHERE

A mobile salon that brings the ultimate beauty experience to your door for all occasions, from bridal preparation to birthday celebrations.

Complete with festoon lighting, wisteria trees and chandeliers, The Lakeside sets a perfect scene for your Wedding Breakfast, before transforming into a star-lit space ready to party the night away.

Transform any gathering into a luxurious spa experience with The Pamper Lounge’s premium pampering sessions. Indulge in an afternoon of relaxation and fun with friends and loved ones to feel rejuvenated and invigorated.

Book a treatment: www.pamper-lounge.com

0800 772 0028

Find us on:

hello@pamper-lounge.com

LOCAL NEWS

DATE FOR THE DIARY

www.boyntonweddingphotography.co.uk

Alrewas Hayes, a stunning wedding venue in Staffordshire, is hosting an open day on Sunday 21st January 2024. The historic country estate will be opening its doors for couples to see the elegantly dressed wedding spaces and meet the friendly and knowledgeable wedding and events team. Enjoy a glass of fizz upon arrival and talk all things wedding with a handpicked selection of talented suppliers. With full access to the venue and grounds, you can take a tour and begin picturing your dream wedding day. Doors open from 1pm to 4pm and entry is free of charge. Please register at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/alrewas-hayes-open-day-january2024-tickets-746006093307 to get your allotted time slot. If you’re hosting your wedding at Alrewas Hayes and would like to come back and visit the venue that captured your heart, the team has allocated the time slot of 12pm-1pm for you. If you would like to attend, please email planners@alrewashayes.com. To find out more about Alrewas Hayes, visit www.alrewashayes.com

d e w y l r NeaNEWS

All the latest from around the West Midlands

NEW AND IMPROVED Often described as one of Worcestershire’s best-kept secrets, Hagley Hall has recently partnered with Fews, an awardwinning marquee company, to launch its new breathtaking structure for Summer 2024 and 2025 called The Orangery. Set within 350 acres of breathtaking parkland, the Hall itself dates back to the 18th century and is considered to be one of the last great Palladian mansion houses, steeped in history and supreme architecture. Home to the Lyttelton family for more than 250 years, the opulent stately home is available for exclusive use and offers panoramic views of the enchanting estate, including St. John’s Church and Deer Park, which are situated within the grounds. Hosting your wedding at Hagley Hall guarantees undivided attention and service from the entire team. Between them, they have more than 40 years of experience in organising and managing events, so you can relax in the knowledge that you will always have a safe pair of hands to guide you throughout your wedding journey. Hagley Hall has a dedicated catering team that is passionate about creating fantastic food and bespoke menus to suit every guest. They use local, high-quality, seasonal produce, and many of the ingredients are home-grown and sourced from the estate. Discover more at www.hagleyhall.com

BEAUTY QUEEN Townhouse, one of the UK’s leading luxury nail care brands, has launched a new store in Birmingham. Nestled in the heart of the city, just across the road from Hotel du Vin and a 30-second walk from Cathedral Square, Townhouse Birmingham is set to become a go-to nail care destination for flawless nails. To celebrate the opening, the salon hosted a launch party with drinks, delicious canapés, handcrafted personalised bracelets and gift bags. For more information, visit www.staging.townhouse.co.uk 9

A HISTORIC SETTING

www.instagram.com/charlotteashleyphotography

NEW VENUE ALERT! Plans to transform a former antiques centre into an exciting new luxury wedding venue in the West Midlands have been unveiled by property consultants Burley Browne. Blackbrook Barns, prominently located between Lichfield and Sutton Coldfield, is set to be re-imagined by its new owners as a high-class wedding venue set within beautiful rural surroundings against the backdrop of a Grade-II-listed hall and outbuildings. The venue will be able to accommodate wedding ceremonies and all the subsequent celebrations. The development will also boast eight retail units, which are ideally suited to retailers and businesses associated with the wedding and wider hospitality sectors. David Hemming, the joint managing director of Burley Browne, said: “The redevelopment of Blackbrook Barns offers some really exciting opportunities for retailers operating in the weddings sector. Our client will transform the current site into a fantastic new luxury wedding venue that will be surrounded by high-quality shops. It will provide couples getting married in the region with superb new facilities in an extremely convenient location.” Check out www.burleybrowne.co.uk for more information.

Weston Hall is a magnificent Grade II* listed building nestled in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside. Encompassing four large pitched roofs, a striking exterior, and a mixture of modern and Elizabethan features, the venue has several beautiful wedding spaces to choose from. The Shrewsbury Suite’s impressive countryside views and original mullioned windows allow for a magical backdrop for an enchanting ceremony of up to 110 guests. On the other hand, the Westminster Suite provides elegance and charm with its oak beams and stone fireplaces. Boasting a private bar and custom-made dancefloor, The Westminster Suite is the ideal setting for up to 150 loved ones to enjoy the celebrations. Weston Hall is hosting an open day on 13th and 14th January, 2024, from 11am to 4pm. This is the perfect chance to see the venue for yourself and meet the wonderful team. To find out more about the venue, visit www.weston-hall.co.uk or call 01889 271 082.

AWARD-WINNING

www.eloiseandmitch.com

DRINK IT ALL IN Couples looking for something special for their guests will love Warwickshire Gin Company’s miniature spirits, which make the perfect table favours. Great conversation starters, the inspiration behind the award-winning distillery’s collection comes from a desire to capture a moment in history, develop flavours to fully represent the county’s own unique story, and bring the range of hand-crafted flavours to life. The new special-edition rums are among those also now available in 5-cl servings, with the added option of rope-handled gift bags and tonics or even handmade chocolates infused with their own gin or rum. The rum collection is inspired by Warwickshire’s own legendary boxing champion, Randolph Turpin, who earned himself the nickname Leamington Licker. The distillery also offers visitor experiences, including gin tastings, cocktails at the distillery, afternoon gin and tea, and a range of build-your-own branded gift bundles. Visit www.warwickshiregincompany.co.uk for more information.

Stockton House, situated in the beautiful Shropshire countryside, received the accolade of ‘Best Venue (Other) in the West Midlands’ at the Wedding Industry Awards, an evening that celebrates suppliers across the wedding industry. Stockton House and the dedicated team will now go on to compete in the national finals, which take place in London in January 2024. Owned and run by the estate, the Georgian Grade II-listed venue opened its doors in August 2022 and has had a successful first year. There are two other tenant businesses on the Apley Estate, Brides View at Astol and Emmie Hair, based in the Estates Farm Shop courtyard, who have also been nominated as regional finalists. Venue manager Amy Applegarth commented: “We are absolutely thrilled to be announced as regional winners at The Wedding Industry Awards. We only opened our doors in August 2022, and to win such a huge accolade like this is amazing. We are striving to offer our couples a wedding weekend experience with very few limitations. I believe our personal and dedicated approach is what sets us apart while always providing a warm welcome. We’re now looking forward to showcasing our venue at the National Finals in January.” Head over to www.stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk for more information.

Enigma studios brings you the ﬁrst of its kind, a mobile tattoo studio for your wedding reception!

The couple and guests can choose tattoos and take home the most unique wedding favour - A permanent memory of the special day! For a free quote contact us today! 01242 805786 hello@enigmatattoopiercing.co.uk www.enigmatattoopiercing.co.uk @enigma.studios.ltd

Say ‘I do’ to wedding insurance

Financial protection for weddings up to £50,000 Cancellation and rearrangement Financial failure of wedding services suppliers £2m personal liability included as standard Additional cover for Public Liability, Covid-19, overseas Weddings, Marquee and more

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£43.99 one-off payment

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We can create a spectacular displays to your requirements for amazing ﬁreworks to celebrate your big day

Capturing Moments That Matter

shinephotography.co.uk /ShinePhotographyStaffs /ShinePhotographyStaffs

james@shinephotography.co.uk

LOW NOISE FIREWORKS TRADITIONAL FIREWORKS PYROMUSICAL DISPLAYS AND MORE...

EFFORTLESSLY STYLED UNFORGETTABLE WEDDINGS Are you planning the wedding of your dreams but feeling overwhelmed by the endless to-do list? Let our experienced wedding event styling team help you bring your vision to life. With eight years of expertise in creating unforgettable weddings, we’ll take care of every detail to ensure your special day is nothing short of perfect. From selecting the finest décor to executing flawless design, we’ve got you covered. Sit back, relax and enjoy every minute of your wedding day while we handle the event décor.

Call: 0800 118 2921 or email: enquiries@ﬁreworkdisplay.co.uk

www.ﬁreworkdisplay.co.uk

Contact us to make your wedding vision a reality. www.kara-mia.com hello@kara-mia.com 07854 116116 Kara-Mia Venue Styling @karamiavenuestyling

Freebies & OFFERS FREEBIES & OFFERS

Take advantage of these gorgeous giveaways and fab offers

www.everybodysmilephotography.co.uk

WIN A PRIVATE PARTY BUS WORTH £1,000

That Gin Company, based in Warwick, is offering one lucky reader a private bus cocktail tour worth up to £1,000 – perfect for hen and stag parties or as a unique way to transfer your guests to the wedding reception. The Cocktail Tours are the latest acquisition of That Gin Company, which also owns That Gin & Cocktail Bar in Warwick. The converted double-decker Cocktail Tours Bus can host up to 50 guests and features state-of-the-art LED lighting, a sound system, a DJ booth, as well as a bar stocked with a wide range of alcoholic drinks, including cocktails and mocktails, spirits, beers, wine, and fizz. Guests can choose from That Gin Company’s huge range of made-to-order cocktails and gin recipes, as well as their signature favourites. The winner will have a choice of two packages, each worth £1,000. The first package offers exclusive use of the bus for one hour and includes two premium drinks per guest, with a paid bar option after the first hour. Based on a party size of 50 guests at £19.95 per person. The second package is based on a party size of 25 guests at £39.95 per person. You will receive exclusive use of the Cocktail Tours Bus for two hours, including a drive of up to 30 miles and three premium drinks per guest. To be in with a chance to win this fantastic prize, enter at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/giveaways. Terms and conditions apply; please visit our website for details. For more information about The Cocktail Tours, visit www.thatgincompany.co.uk

WIN TWO STRIKING ACCURIST WATCHES WORTH UP TO £538!

County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with British heritage watch brand Accurist to offer readers the chance to win this ultimate prize package for nearlyweds. Brides-to-be have the choice of a stunning set from Accurist and Sarah Alexander collaboration (www.accurist.com/accurist-x-sarah-alexander). Priced from £209 to £289. This curation of nine unique giftsets, combines Sarah Alexander jewellery with Accurists best-selling, vintage-inspired Rectangle and Jewellery collections. All gift sets have been hand curated to showcase a coordinated look, featuring bangles, bracelets, earrings and necklaces with a wide variety of unique gemstones such as Rose Quartz, Mother of Pearl and Blue Kyanite − winners will be hard-pressed to choose! Grooms-to-be have the tough choice of selecting a dashing watch from one of Accurists men’s collection (www.accurist.com/mens-watches). Priced from £119 to £249. Whether you go for a 1950s-inspired ‘Classic’ collection or the bold design of its ‘70s bestseller ‘Origin’ collection, all of Accurists’ collections have taken inspiration from 77 years of British watchmaking. Each watch comes with quick-release interchangeable straps, a five-year extended warranty and unique features in each collection. What’s more, whether you require the above two sets, or two brides or grooms, both come presented in Accurists watch roll gift packaging and can be personalised with engraving on the case back − perfect for the happy day. Check out www.accurist.com Enter online via the website www.yourwestmidlands.wedding by 31st January, 2024. Terms and conditions apply. 13

Wedding Cookies, Individual Cakes & Dessert Tables

@thesugarpeony www.thesugarpeony.com

Image: Stu Ganderton

Custom Wedding Cake Designer

Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings with its 19 acres of grounds, historic buildings and views over the Worcestershire countryside, is truly a beautiful, unique and romantic setting for your wedding. Say ‘I do’ in the majestic New Guesten Hall with its beautifully detailed medieval roof which was originally part of Worcester Cathedral.

Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B60 4JR

T: 01527 831 363 E: bookings@avoncroft.org.uk www.avoncroft.org.uk

LOCAL VENUES

www.dcphotographic.co.uk

Spotlight on...

Venues in Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire THE FIRS WEDDING & EVENTS, B60 4AR

Celebrate in style Weddings take place in the three big hat Nordic tipis, which are situated

We love... All weddings come with a full planning service, which includes on-site meetings, supplier contacts, a timetable and layout for the day, morning set-up, and on-the-day coordination to help make sure everything runs smoothly.

www.alinaswiatek.co.uk

The Firs Wedding & Events is nestled within 22 acres of picturesque Worcestershire countryside and is surrounded by secluded and intimate barns, delightful gardens and far-reaching views. Beautifully refurbished and stylishly appointed, the Grade II-listed Georgian farmhouse boasts a secluded Honeymoon Cottage and a luxury two-bedroom cottage with views of the lake. There’s also glamping bell tents and on-site camping, which can be added as an option for your guests with a second-day extension if you’re looking for a weekend-long celebration.

opposite a small lake with a stunning fountain. Your big day can be booked on an exclusive use basis from April through to September. The space seats around 150 friends and family, depending on the configuration. These tipis are a blank canvas for you to dress to your desired taste for your special day. The tipi includes fairylights, up-lighters, seating and tables, a dancefloor, disco ball, sound system, a cake table, a firepit, an on-site bar, overnight parking, and much more.

www.dcphotographic.co.uk

07866 473 332 | www.thefirsweddingsandevents.co.uk

www.ambermariephotography.co.uk

www.fanaticcreative.com

BROMWICH PARK FARM WEDDINGS, SY11 4JQ 07808 297 161 | www.bromwichpark.com Bromwich Park Farm Weddings is a former dairy farm situated in the heart of the Shropshire countryside. Made up of traditional single-story red brick farm buildings adorned with climbing ivy and vines, the property has a paved courtyard reception area next to the large 1930s-style farmhouse. Surrounded by open green fields, including a camping field and glamping orchard, the venue feels like a peaceful oasis but is only 10 minutes from Oswestry Town.

Promise Knoll in front of the farm and inside the Ceremony Stables. Receptions take place in The Cow Barn, a large rustic brick barn with rich red walls, quirky wood panelling, raw iron beams, and a bar made from chunky oak bookcases. This area can accommodate up to 250 of your friends and family. Late-night dancing happens in the Milking Parlour, a bohemian, festival-style lounge decorated with an eclectic selection of original farm fittings, old furniture, lamps, and fairylights.

www.roostain.com

www.danround.com

We love... The Granary Cottage, at the heart of the farm, is available on the night of the wedding.

Celebrate in style The venue is licensed for ceremonies outside in the courtyard, on the

SAFARI VENUES, DY12 1LF 01299 406 460 | www.safarivenues.co.uk Safari Venues is situated within the grounds of West Midland Safari Park and is home to three gorgeous wedding venues. Couples can expect a grand and special setting with a team that is passionate about making celebrations unforgettable. Celebrate in style Set within the scenic grounds, Spring Grove House is a Georgian manor that has built its well-deserved reputation on impeccable service, luxury menu selections, and attention to detail. For large wedding celebrations, Treetops Pavilion is big and bold. Its vast proportions and capacity make it one of the largest entertainment 16

facilities in the county, perfect for civil ceremonies, wedding breakfasts, and evening receptions. Nestled beneath Spring Grove House is Cellarz, an intimate, brick-vaulted venue with an impressive atmosphere. Rich in character with a current and contemporary style, Cellarz has its own chic bar area, a dancefloor, and cosy alcoves, which can be hired as part of Spring Grove House or separately. We love... Safari Venues offers bespoke wedding packages and the opportunity to work directly with the on-site chefs to create your dream menu.

LOCAL VENUES

KARMA SALFORD HALL, WR11 8UT

the tower, where it remains today.

01386 871 300 | www.karmagroup.com Celebrate in style There are several spaces available for weddings, including the Walled Garden, which can accommodate 100 of your loved ones for the service, and the Tudor Court Lawn, which has room for 60. Large receptions are held in the marquee, which can hold 100 of your friends and family. Intimate celebrations take place in either the Tempest Restaurant, which can hold 40 of your nearest and dearest, or the Palm Court Conservatory, with space for 16. We love... Couples will have access to the bridal suite on the night of the wedding and receive a complimentary menu tasting.

www.robandsarahgillespie.co.uk

www.nickbrightman.com

Karma Salford Hall is a Grade I listed manor house that has retained its Tudor charm, boasting stained-glass windows, a bell tower, and engraving into Cotswold stone. Set in manicured gardens and nestled amid rolling hills and farmland, the property has a quintessentially English feel, with new and period furnishings creating a traditional yet contemporary setting. Once the guest home for the monks of Evesham Abbey and later owned by King Henry VIII, the building is steeped in history and old-world charm with grand fireplaces, wood panelling, and oil paintings. When Charles Stanford married Elenor Alderford, he marked the occasion by gifting her a bell that hung in the belfry for four centuries before it was stolen in the 1980s. It later turned up being offered at auction. The owners of the hall at that time bought it back and returned it to

AVONCROFT MUSEUM OF HISTORIC BUILDINGS, B60 4JR 01527 831 363 | https://avoncroft.org.uk Situated in the picturesque Worcestershire countryside, Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings is surrounded by character-filled grounds and stunning wedding spaces perfect for tying the knot. Celebrate in style New Guesten Hall is a large and flexible space located near the museum’s entrance. Boasting a 14th-century roof that was originally part of Worcester Cathedral’s reception hall, the space has beautifully detailed Medieval carpentry and room for 120 guests for the ceremony

and wedding breakfast. It can be expanded to accommodate an extra 60 loved ones for the evening reception. Surrounding New Guesten Hall is a manicured lawn lined with trees and historical buildings, which is the ideal area for couples wanting to mingle and entertain their guests. The 19 acres of grounds provide a stunning backdrop for wedding photographs, with the Windmill, Threshing Barn, and Telephone Kiosk collections being favourites with couples. We love... The Bromsgrove Society of Model Engineers Railway is available to hire, which adds a quirky element to your big-day pictures. 17

Suited and Booted BESPOKE WEDDING SERVICE FOR MEN

AFFORDABLE 3-PIECE SUITS FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY

To book an appointment call

07429 570 655 or email info@carteresquire.co.uk

Visit us: 71 High Street, Bromsgrove B61 8AQ

www.carteresquire.co.uk Carter Esquire YourWestMidsWedMag DEC22 195x141 STG3 AW.indd 1

24/11/2022 19:53

HANDCRAFTED PIZZAS, HASSLE-FREE SERVICE & picture-perfect moments Experience the ultimate blend of rustic charm and contemporary flavours with our mobile pizzeria from our handconverted horse trailer - as seen on TV. Let us elevate your wedding with a fusion of vintage allure and exceptional taste. Secure your date with us now and let the festivities begin.

“Served amazing pizzas to our wedding guests without any drama and left no mess” “From start to finish, the lads were fab” “The most delicious pizzas” “The team were incredible and nothing was too much trouble”

www.dirtydonkeyltd.co.uk bookings@dirtydonkeyltd.co.uk +44 (0)7399 401648

Walking in a winter wonderland

WINTER WONDERLAND VENUES

Tie the knot in a venue perfect for a festive celebration

HAGLEY HALL, DY9 9LG 01562 887 290 | www.hagleyhall.com Often described as one of Worcestershire’s best-kept secrets, Hagley Hall dates back to the 18th century and is one of the last great Palladian mansion houses. Steeped in history and architecture, the property has been home to the Lyttelton family for over 250 years and is available for private hire. The opulent stately home is nestled within 350 acres of landscaped parkland and offers impressive views of the estate.

We love... Hagley Hall has a dedicated head chef and catering team that are passionate about creating fantastic food and bespoke menus to suit every guest. They use local, seasonal produce, and many of the ingredients are home-grown and sourced from the estate.

THE TELFORD HOTEL, SPA & GOLF RESORT, TF7 4DT

The QHotels Collection

Celebrate in style New for 2024 and 2025 is The Orangery, which can hold up to 450 guests. The Orangery will be situated within the landscaped grounds, offering panoramic views of the Hall, St. John’s Church, and Deer Park. For larger occasions of up to 1,000 guests, there is a choice of two marquee sites, or for smaller parties of up to 120 loved ones, the grand and exquisite State Rooms are perfect for your celebrations.

relaxing 17th-century lounge.

01952 429 977 | www.telfordhotelgolfresort.co.uk The Telford Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort is nestled within 170-acres of picturesque grounds in Shropshire. The hotel has plenty of places to capture those all-important photographs, including the manicured Darby Lawn, the meticulously kept 18-hole golf course, and the dramatic Ironbridge Gorge. For a truly timeless experience, you can book exclusive use of Darby House. The one-time residence of Abraham Darby, designer of Ironbridge, offers a slice of authenticity in the heart of the Shropshire countryside. Home to seven bedrooms filled with period features and a

Celebrate in style The contemporary wedding venue fits up to 200 of your friends and family. The team will work with you to ensure the space fits your needs; for example, you could swap neutral tones for a bespoke palette for the chair covers, table covers, and bows at no extra cost. We love... With food and drink served by an experienced team and over 100 inviting rooms, The Telford Hotel supplies all the facilities you need to entertain your loved ones and give them a warm bed for the night. 19

www.lauramayphotography.co.uk

www.laurenjuliette.com

STOCKTON HOUSE, TF11 9EF

ceremonies and can host your wedding breakfast and evening party. The building has four and a half-metre-high walls and, to your guests, looks like a secret garden. When you open the grand, double doors, you will be transported into a large open space with a double curved ceiling, chandeliers, and open windows to the gardens and grounds at the back of the house. Exchange your vows outside underneath the tree canopy in The Victorian Turning House. Your guests will take their seats on the lawn and watch you say your vows, surrounded by striking views.

01952 730 894 | www.stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk Stockton House is a beautiful Grade II* listed building nestled in 8,500 acres of Shropshire countryside on the Apley Estate. Stockton has been newly renovated, transforming what once was a family home into a boutique wedding venue. The 18th-century building is full of history, and during the renovation, the team wanted to preserve the original features and architecture the house has to offer and pay homage to the history and heritage this amazing house has.

The QHotels Collection

We love... The intimate vaulted cellar is available for you and your wedding party during your stay. The team can host an exclusive tasting where you will select champagne and wines. Served alongside delicious canapés or cheese board selections, this tasting experience can be a magical addition to the night before your wedding day or before you retire to one of the seven luxuriously designed bedrooms in the main house.

Celebrate in style St. Chad’s Church is an 11th-century church, just a short walk from Stockton House. With stunning architecture and historic features, St. Chads is perfect for religious ceremonies or blessings. The Walled Garden Dining Room is a purpose-built 100-seater secret dining space. This incredible open-plan room is licensed for civil

STRATFORD MANOR HOTEL, CV37 0PY 01789 731 173 | www.stratfordmanor.co.uk Stratford Manor Hotel is a spacious 104-bedroom venue with newly refurbished rooms in the peaceful Warwickshire countryside. The modern retreat in the heart of Shakespeare Country is just three miles from Stratford-upon-Avon and boasts modern surroundings, extensive facilities, and an expert team who care passionately about planning your occasion perfectly from start to finish. The contemporary design and facilities at the Stratford Manor Hotel make it a fantastic place for unforgettable celebrations. From romantic and intimate to large and contemporary, the hotel has three rooms for you to choose from. Celebrate in style The largest event space, The Stratford Suite, has an adjacent bar, high 20

ceilings, and large windows. The suite can hold up to 250 of your guests for a banquet or 220 with a dancefloor and disco. Doors lead out onto a terrace area, providing the perfect setting for reception drinks and canapés or, if the weather permits, a delicious barbecue. Salmon & Avon is ideal for more intimate celebrations or can be used as one larger room for up to 70 of your loved ones. The Leamington has a maximum capacity of 100 friends and family, an abundance of natural daylight, and an adjacent bar. We love... At the Stratford Manor Hotel, a dedicated team of chefs will create a mouth-watering selection of food for you and your guests. From delicious canapés to sumptuous dining, they combine contemporary cuisine with familiar home comforts. All dishes are made with the best possible ingredients and tailored to your requirements.

YOUR SPECIAL DAY Let us set the scene for your wedding at Ettington Park, a magnificent Neo-Gothic mansion surrounded by 40 acres of stunning parkland, with the River Stour meandering its way through the estate. Blend this with our unique contemporary style, modern British food and impeccable service, and you have the ultimate venue for your special day. Whether you are planning a classic wedding or something a little different, we will help tailor a unique wedding day that celebrates you. For wedding showcase dates throughout the year along with packages and exclusive use options, please visit our website. 01789 450123 handpickedhotels.co.uk

ETTINGTON PARK

HOTEL STRATFORD-UPON-AVON, WARWICKSHIRE

YO U R

perfect

VENUE IS WA I T I N G J U S T

for you

Considered Worcestershire’s best kept secret is our 18th century Palladian mansion, set in 350 acres of spectacular landscaped parkland, in which we are an exclusive and luxurious wedding venue. We would be honoured to host your upcoming ceremony, reception and party and work with you to bring your inspiration to life at Hagley Hall. Our highly experienced and dedicated team would love to meet and discuss your special day. We can host any size of occasion either within our opulent State Rooms or outdoors in our beautiful grounds, within a marquee or tipi structure. To book an appointment to view or to receive a copy of our wedding brochure:

T: 01562 887290 | E: weddings@hagleyhall.com | www.hagleyhall.com |

New for Summer 2024 and 2025 The Orangery at Hagley Hall Panoramic views for up to 450 guests

D Y HEened L S T BI op EN UR nue C F e 3 RE RE ew v 202 Y d n une LL ran in J

FU is b Th

VENUE FOR HIRE

ROOMS CATERING UP TO 300 GUESTS No matter the occasion - be it wedding, birthday, baby shower, work party or any other special event, our versatile venue located in Sandwell has everything you need to ensure an unforgettable experience.

2 rooms available for hire Full functioning bar in both rooms Packages or dry hire available Car park spaces available Newly renovated space Perfect for private or corporate events Competitive pricing

Your event! Our expertise!

Our dedicated team customises every detail of your event, from planning to execution, surpassing your expectations and turning your visions into reality. To see more of our events space follow us on Instagram. Contact us via 07888 369 241 or info@luxorevents.co.uk

luxorevents.co.uk LUXOR EVENTS VENUE

07888 369 241

@luxorevents.uk

152 REDDAL HILL ROAD

CRADLEY HEATH

B64 5JJ

Weddings AT

L IC H F I E L D

G U I L DHA L L

The two largest rooms are licensed for Wedding Ceremonies and ideal for receptions too. There are also two smaller rooms available for hire, all of which are fully accessible.

The magnificent main hall is oak-panelled with a high beamed roof and large stained-glass window. The Guildhall has seen considerable improvement over the past few years including major renovations of the main hall so the venue now boasts excellent, modern facilities.

Close to local transport links and car parks the venue is hired at an hourly rate leaving you free to make your own arrangements for caterers etc so you can tailor make your own package. The maximum capacity in the Main Guildhall is 130.

Photography: R Yardley

Lichfield Guildhall is located in the heart of the historic City of Lichfield, Staffordshire. This wonderful Grade II listed building is over 600 years old and steeped in history.

For further details please email: helen.winter@lichfield.gov.uk or tel: 01543 309850 / 01543 250011 BORE STREET

LICHFIELD

S TA F F O R D SH I R E

WS13 6LX

www.lichfield.gov.uk

CHEYLESMORE MANOR HOUSE, CV1 2ND 02476 833 141 | www.ceremoniesinsidecoventry.co.uk/ cheylesmoremanorceremonysuite Cheylesmore Manor House is the remnant of a Medieval royal palace in Coventry city centre. The magnificent timber building is a key piece of Coventry’s rich and important heritage. Previously the only unfortified royal palace outside of London, Cheylesmore Manor House is now used as a ceremony venue. The manor is believed to have been built for the Earl of Arundel in 1237. By 1320, it had passed to Queen Isabella, wife of Edward II, along with the lavish Cheylesmore Park that surrounded it. Her grandson Edward, the Black Prince, took possession of it after her. The building we know today is, in fact, only the gatehouse and parts of two cross wings of the original manor house. Celebrate in style The property houses three ceremony rooms: the Queen Isabella Room, the Black Prince Room, and the Library Room. The Black Prince Room retains

THE BELFRY HOTEL & RESORT, B76 9PR

www.ajtimages.co.uk

WINTER WONDERLAND VENUES

a wealth of original features, including a magnificent vaulted beamed ceiling with an impressive stone fireplace, and is furnished to a high standard with Medieval chandeliers. Once the ceremony is over, your guests will exit from the room via a winding staircase down to a huge oak door leading into a large stone-flagged courtyard, where a section of the city wall still remains. A small wooden bridge within the courtyard provides delightful opportunities for photographs and memories of the special day. This is the largest of the manor’s ceremony rooms, accommodating 50 people. The Queen Isabella Room, with its beautiful beams, is tastefully furnished to a high standard. The room accommodates up to 20 people, including the two of you and your witnesses, with direct access into the room from the archway outside. Alternatively, the Library Room can hold up to 10 people, including you and your witnesses. The room is on the ground floor of the manor house, making it accessible for wheelchair users. We love... The venue’s rich history and stunning ceremony spaces.

The Belfry Hotel & Resort is situated within 550 acres of rolling countryside on the outskirts of Sutton Coldfield. There are plenty of outdoor spaces to explore, including three world-famous golf courses, a terrace, lakes, majestic fairways, and water features that look fabulous in photographs. The manor house, the oldest part of the building, has heaps of character and charm. While the lobby, with its imposing fireplace, is flooded with natural light and leads to the elegant Brabazon Bar, which has a magnificent oval central bar, plush seating, and a glass canopy. Home to 319 bedrooms and suites, the hotel oozes style and elegance by combining luxury and grandeur with a contemporary design while also retaining its charm and heritage.

that open onto the courtyard, the room can hold up to 310 loved ones for the vows. The Wishaw Suite overlooks the famous 10th hole of the Brabazon Golf Course and has high ceilings, lots of natural light, a private bar, and a maximum capacity of 200 nearest and dearest for the service. Alternatively, the Lichfield Suite is a versatile room featuring lounge areas and an adjoining room with a dedicated bar. It extends onto the Lichfield Lawn, where 160 people can make the most of the summer weather and watch you say ‘I do’. The Sutton Suite leads onto an outdoor patio and has its own bar facility, wood-panelled walls, and space for 120 of your friends and family for the ceremony. Featuring panoramic views, The Ryder Room boasts a seating and bar area, a spiral staircase, floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings, and room for 100 guests for the service.

Celebrate in style The Woodland Suite is an exclusively contained space with room for 410 of your friends and family for the ceremony. Situated on the ground floor in the heart of the resort is the Warwick Suite. Boasting a dedicated bar facility, glittering chandeliers, and doors

We love... When booking The Belfry Hotel & Resort, you will receive a menu tasting, a personalised cake knife gift set, one-night accommodation in the Signature Suite, a bottle of champagne on arrival, and an anniversary dinner.

01675 238 600 | www.thebelfry.com

A beautiful manor house set in stunning grounds, Alveston Manor Hotel & Spa in Stratford-upon-Avon offers luxury, elegance and a real sense of history. With 16th Century origins, the hotel has retained many original features such as oak panelling, stained glass windows and an Elizabethan staircase. Licensed for wedding ceremonies of up to 120 guests, Alveston Manor Hotel & Spa makes the perfect setting for your special day. To book an appointment or for more info, scan the QR code Alveston Manor Hotel & Spa, Clopton Bridge, Stratford upon Avon, CV37 7HP • 01789 205 478 macdonaldhotels.co.uk/alveston-manor Find us on:

Once upon

REAL WEDDINGS

A TIME

Rebecca knew instantly that Bradley was her prince charming Images courtesy of Emily Jayne Weddings

ebecca and Bradley met in March 2020 and had an instant connection. “After five dates, lockdown hit,” says Rebecca. “We spent three months talking via FaceTime, and at that point, we knew if we could get through lockdown, we could get through anything. Straight after the restrictions eased, we went house hunting and nine months later, we finally managed to move in together! “In October 2021, we went to Kos, Greece, for a holiday, and Bradley turned to me and told me he had a gift for me,” continues Rebecca. “He looked into my eyes, got down on one knee, and asked me, while trying to hold back the tears, if I would marry him. I obviously said yes. I couldn’t believe it; my dream had finally come true.” Read on to see some of Rebecca’s favourite moments from their big day... 25

We loved how Alveston Manor looked, and the main room where we got married was stunning. The décor throughout was wonderful, especially the stained-glass windows and beams.

Our cake was a beautiful white design from Compton and Kennedy. It had petals falling down in various colours and white Mickey Mouse silhouettes.

Our tables tied in with our fairytale theme and showed my love of Disney.

To decorate the space, we chose light-up ceiling drapes and a dancefloor. 26

For our favours, we gave our guests pieces of rock that said, ‘just married’.

REAL WEDDINGS

The bridesmaids chose different-coloured dresses that matched our theme. We had a lovely moment during our vows where the registrar paused, and Bradley said ‘I do’ faster than he should have, and we all laughed because it was a very sweet moment, proving how much he wanted to say it.

I wore a princess-style Rachel Allan dress and accessorised with a veil and tiara. Bradley chose a lovely grey suit that matched the groomsmen.

All of the speeches were beautiful, but we had a lovely surprise from my brother, who gave a speech that we did not know about.

To keep our guests entertained, we had an amazing DJ, and our friend handed out candy floss while the room was being changed over.

For our honeymoon, we went to Los Angeles and Las Vegas. It was amazing! We visited Disney for four days, which was a lovely way to end all the wedding hype. 27

REBECCA AND BRADLEY’S CONTACTS Venue, catering and DJ, Alveston Manor, www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/alveston-manor | Photographer, Emily Jayne Weddings, www.emilyjayneweddings.co.uk | Videographer, Swift Wedding Films, www.swiftweddingfilms.co.uk | Bride’s dress, accessories and alterations, The Dressing Rooms Bridal, www.tdr-bridal.co.uk | Groom’s suit and accessories, Slater Menswear, www.slaters.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Infinity Dress, www.infinitydress.co.uk | Mums’ outfits, The Continental Collection, www.continentalcollection.co.uk | Hair stylist, Hairdressing by Amelia, www.facebook.com/ahhairdressing | Make-up artist, Amy Louise Beauty Makeup and Hair Artist, www.amylouisebeauty.com | Cake, Compton and Kennedy, www.comptonandkennedy.co.uk | Stationery, Tilly Fudge, www.tillyfudge.co.uk 28

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pitch

PERFECT Me’sha and Darren met when he auditioned to be the drummer in her band Images courtesy of Artisan X Photography

REAL WEDDINGS

e’sha and Darren are musicians who met when she was performing her original music at Shepherds Bush Cricket Club. “He’s a drummer, educator, and two-time all-natural bodybuilding champion; I’m a singer, actor, and vocal coach,” says Me’sha. “I had a habit of firing drummers from my band, so when I first set eyes on Darren, I thought, ‘Oh no! He’s really handsome!’ Annoyingly, he’d been really attentive when learning my music, brought his own drumkit to the gig, knew all the lyrics to my songs, and was really good with children. We were also both members of the faculty at a specialist music school in London, so not long after that, we started dating, and I didn’t have to fire him from my band!” Darren proposed on New Year’s Eve in 2021. “We’d been watching Alicia Keys perform on TV,” shares the bride. “He left the room, came back, got down on one knee, and proposed to me next to the sofa. Sadly, I don’t remember any of his proposal, because as soon as I heard him say my name and I saw the ring in the box, it was like I was suddenly underwater. I do, however, remember our hug afterwards and the look of relief on his face when I said yes.”

SETTING THE SCENE “We knew we didn’t want a venue that was too modern, as we prefer buildings with a bit of history to them, and it had to have greenery and wildlife surrounding it as Darren’s a big nature lover,” explains Me’sha. “We did a lot of research online but couldn’t start viewing venues until September as many hadn’t reopened due to the pandemic restrictions. We came across Stockton House at The National Wedding Show in Birmingham. Upon meeting Marc, the former owner, we were immediately drawn to his warmth, genuinely caring nature, and passion for making couples feel special on their wedding day. We could only view artists’ impressions of the venue, as the building was basically uninhabitable and the secret walled garden dining room didn’t actually exist. We visited in early November, and the grounds were absolutely stunning. As soon as we saw the sheep and pheasants roaming around as we made our way up the driveway, we knew it was the place for us. We toured the house with Marc and decided to take a leap of faith, putting down a deposit in order to secure our wedding date. We were one of the first couples to sign up to get married at Stockton House, and we visited the venue on several occasions during the build-up to our wedding to see how the refurb was going. We went from wearing hard hats for safety to seeing the secret walled garden spring to life from a muddy patch to the beautiful venue that it is today. We even took the opportunity to film a couple of music videos in several rooms pre- and post-refurb, which have become great memories for us.” The happy couple incorporated lots of beautiful colours into their day. “I’m a colourful person and used to have blue hair, so I knew I wanted bright florals for our special day,” recalls the bride. “Our florists from Big Little Things really thought about our story and incorporated bachelor buttons, also known as drumsticks, into our arrangements, which was a nice touch. We are quite handy DIY people; we refurbished our 1950s house from top to bottom, knocking down and building walls, upcycling furniture, and bringing our once-overgrown garden back to life, so we always knew we wanted to make some of the decorations. Origami immediately came to mind, so we bought paper online and started making hearts, cranes, and butterflies. They were used as decorations on either side of the aisle. On the wedding breakfast tables, each person had a heart along with their name laser cut in natural wood and a favour bag filled with love hearts, chocolates, and drumsticks, of course! Darren also built two easels that held our welcome mirror and a photo collage that we had printed online.” As musicians, it was important for the couple to have a few nods to their profession throughout their décor. “Our seating plans were attached to one of Darren’s crash cymbals inside the drawing room, and the card box was a floor tom with a slit cut out of the top head so that cards 31

Your perfect day —

A T

S T O C K T O N

H O U S E

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• Full use of our walled garden dining room • A complimentary menu tasting with your own personal chef

S T O C K T O N

• Crockery, cutlery, tableware and glassware

• Breakfast the next day for the happy couple

enquiries@stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk H O U S E

• Tables, chairs and linen laid to your chosen wedding breakfast floor plan

• A dedicated wedding planner

01952 730894

N O R T O N

S H I F N A L

stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk S H R O P S H I R E

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REAL WEDDINGS could be posted through it,” reveals Me’sha. “We also brought my personal PA so that we could use it to play our specially compiled playlist during the wedding breakfast and to amplify the voices of those making speeches. “Our cake was baked by the lovely Aty from Imperial Cake in Wolverhampton,” adds Me’sha. “We opted for a classic Victoria sponge with strawberry jam. Aty was recommended by my mum’s hairdresser, and I’m so glad we were able to book her, as she was just a joy to work with and had truly beautiful ideas for our cake. I sent her ideas of a few designs that I liked along with the flower inspiration that I’d sent to our florists. Aty also asked for a picture of my dress so that she could get inspiration, and, amazingly, she had a stencil commissioned in the States that encompassed the beading on my dress. She used the stencil on the bottom tier, and it was absolutely stunning. We opted for real flowers rather than silk or flowers made using icing, and they beautifully mirrored those in our floral displays. It looked perfect with our initials stencilled onto the top tier in gold dust, and it was delicious.”

DRESSED TO IMPRESS “My dress was one of the easiest parts of the planning process,” says Me’sha. “I’d been watching Say Yes to the Dress for years, so I knew which silhouette I wanted. I’m used to wearing sparkly gowns on stage, so I needed something that would make me feel like a bride and not like I was there to entertain. I scoured the internet, and as soon as I saw my dress, I knew it was the one. I could only find two shops in the country that stocked the dress, so I made an appointment at Tiffany Jordan, which was just over an hour from home. It was the first dress I tried on, and it was a done deal. I tried on another eight just because, but I knew immediately. I bought my veil and hoop from the same shop, and I was done. “Darren had a very clear idea of what he wanted: a blue suit and brown shoes with a contrasting waistcoat,” continues the bride. “He drew his inspiration from online photos of celebrities such as Tom Cruise and David Beckham. He went to London one day and found everything he wanted at Hawes & Curtis and Jones Bootmaker. He looked very handsome and chose brilliantly!”

MEMORABLE MOMENTS “I remember every single moment of the day,” explains Me’sha. “It was so nice to be up in the bridal suite getting ready and to hear our guests arriving, being greeted by staff and enjoying themselves immediately. I saw Darren arrive in the car park, and he was so smiley; it was a joy! I wasn’t nervous at all. It just felt right, as we’re meant to be. The original plan was to hold the ceremony in front of the Victorian turning house in the garden at Stockton House, but the weather was very changeable, so we held it inside. It turned out brilliantly, and we weren’t disappointed, as the florists did a wonderful job repurposing the flowers, which should’ve sat on the apex of the turning house onto the ceremonial arch inside. “My parents gave a speech, led by my mum as my dad was too shy,” adds Me’sha. “When they were at the microphone, despite my mum announcing that it was nothing of the sort, it was like a comedy double act. They were so funny, and it’s a part of the day that guests are still talking about now. Darren’s speech was so sweet and heartfelt. Andy, the best man, was a rock to us throughout the entire planning process, and his speech was so well researched, beautifully thought through, touching, and peaked perfectly. I’m not really a crier, but he got me that day. Everyone we love was there either physically or in spirit, and we raised a glass to absent family and friends during Darren’s speech.” Me’sha and Darren were over the moon with the food. “Tom, 33

the chef, is a genius and was so accommodating when it came to my long list of allergies and intolerances, and the staff couldn’t have been better,” shares the bride. “We were made to feel so special, and there was no rush to leave the next day. The day was perfect, and there isn’t one single thing I’d go back and change. We had such a wonderful day with our photographer, Chris, and videographer, Daiga, who are both geniuses. It’s such a fantastic feeling to be husband and wife, and we’re already planning our first anniversary party!”

ME’SHA AND DARREN’S CONTACTS Venue, Stockton House, www.stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk | Photographer, Artisan X Photography, www.artisanxphotography.co.uk Videographer, No Ordinary Films, www.noordinaryfilms.co.uk | Bride’s dress, Tiffany Jordan, www.tiffanyjordan.co.uk | Bride’s shoes, Kurt Geiger, www.kurtgeiger.com | Bride’s veil, Linzi Jay, www.linzijay.com | Bride’s head dress, Rachel Chaprunne, www.rachelchaprunne.co.uk Groom’s suit, Hawes & Curtis, www.hawesandcurtis.co.uk | Groom’s shoes, Jones Bootmaker, www.jonesbootmaker.com | Rings, SP Green & Co, www.spgreen.com | Flowers, Big Little Things, www.biglittlethings.co.uk | Seating plan, table names and menus, Papier, www.papier.com | Balloons, Party On Balloons, www.partyonballoons.co.uk | Confetti, Your Confetti, www.yourconfetti.com | Cake, Imperial Cake, www.imperialcake.co.uk | Magician, The Mystery Guest, www.stephenseabourne.com | DJ, Midlands Pro DJ, www.midlandsprodj.com 34

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5 star reviews

because we are foodies

W E O N LY C O O K W I T H P R E M I U M I N G R E D I E N T S

B R I DA L G R A Z I N G B R E A K FA S T � CANAPÉS � S W E E T TA B L E S � B E S P O K E G R A Z I N G TA B L E S

Westwoods Kitchen is a family run business headed up by chef Lee Westwood. Westwoods Kitchen is based perfectly to cater for all of the the Midlands and beyond. 07361 812807

westwoodskitchen@outlook.com

B E S P O K E W E D D I N G B R E A K FA S T � GRAZING CUPS � BUFFETS

Westwoods Kitchen is built on Lee’s principles and uses only local suppliers who provide the finest and freshest ingredients and the best welfare possible. Westwoods Kitchen cater for most dietary requirements which means everyone is catered for. All food is freshly prepared and cooked fresh on the day of service. Westwoods magnificent platters are not only a mouth-watering feast but also a visual delight, and one your guests certainly won’t forget!

www.westwoodskitchen.com

@Westwoods_kitchen

@Westwoods kitchen

Wedding | Street Food | Private Dining | Events | Corporate bigmouthscatering@gmail.com 07712 353733 www.bigmouthscatering.co.uk @bigmouths.catering

I like to have some fun when it comes to couple and group shots to help capture natural smiles and so you can enjoy the moment.

www.georginamaiphotography.co.uk georginamaiphotography info@georginamaiphotography.co.uk 07912 112777

We belong together REAL WEDDINGS

Lauren and Jon incorporated their love of sage and champagne into their big-day styling Images courtesy of Adam Tranter Weddings

auren and Jon met on a train in 2013. “I couldn’t read the sign, so I decided to ask Jon for help,” says Lauren. “We hit it off and spoke for a few months before things fizzled out. By chance, we met again three years later at a station. We went for drinks, and the rest is history.” Jon popped the question during a trip to Sorrento, Italy, in July 2022. “We went out for dinner, and Jon organised an amazing table on the balcony,” shares the bride. “The pianist was playing Etta James’ At Last when Jon got down on one knee as the sun began to set. It was a complete surprise, and I had no idea!” Read on to see some of Lauren’s favourite moments from their big day... 37

We loved how unique Royle Forest Weddings was. We knew it was our dream venue from the moment we got there. Fraser and Emma were absolutely amazing, and we were drawn to their passion right away. We couldn’t have been happier with our decision.

pizza, grazing boards, For our food, we provided our guests with loaded fries and crêpes.

To decorate the tables, we used flowers and gold cutlery. 38

and the largest champagne wall We decorated the space with a crisp wall we’d ever seen!

Our cake was three-tiers and decorated with lemons and figures of us drinking champagne.

Our transpor t was a beautiful car decorated with ribbons.

REAL WEDDINGS

Jon wore a navy tweed suit from Dapper Dan. I chose a white lace dress with a long veil, pearls and Jimmy Choo shoes.

My bridesmaids opted for sage green dresses from ASOS and UK Flower

ially Jon’s dad’s speech, which was All of the speeches were amazing, espec friends and family in one place; it so special. We loved having all of our d for. was the best feeling we could have aske

Girl Boutique.

We loved every second of our day and would love to do it again.

We had a live band called The Foster Brot hers perform, who were amazing. They got the whole crowd goin g, and Jon even sang a song! Being surrounded by our friends on the dancefloor and singing to Oasis was a wonderful moment.

LAUREN AND JON’S CONTACTS Venue, Royle Forest Weddings, www.royleforestweddings.co.uk | Photographer, Adam Tranter Weddings, www.adam-tranter.com | Bride’s dress, WED2B, www.wed2b.com | Groom’s suit, Dapper Dan, www.dapperdansuithire.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, ASOS, www.asos.com and UK Flower Girl Boutique, https://ukflowergirlboutique.com | Hair and make-up artist, Heather Victoria Hair and Make up, www.facebook.com/hvhairandmakeup | Cake, Kates Creative Cakes, www.facebook.com/katesyummycakes | Pizza, Pizzeria Bufala Ltd, www.pizzeriabufala.com | Grazing boards, Graze with Roots, www.grazewithrootscatering.co.uk | Loaded fries, Bigmouths Catering, www.bigmouthscatering.co.uk | Crêpes, The Old Manor House Bakery, www.theoldmanorhousebakery.co.uk | Venue styling, Loveday Creations, www.lovedaycreations.com | Entertainment, The Foster Brothers, www.thefosterbrothers.co.uk 40

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Weddings at Tamworth Castle

Fairy tales really do come true at Tamworth Castle. Set in the beautiful Castle Grounds and with almost one thousand years of history, our castle is the most unique and perfect setting for your special day.

Tel: 01827 709551 Email: castleweddings@tamworth.gov.uk Holloway, Tamworth, Staffordshire. B79 7NA

Receptions at Tamworth Assembly Rooms

Tel: 01827 709551

Email: TARhire@tamworth.gov.uk

Corporation Street, Tamworth, Staffordshire. B79 7DN

Corporation Street Tamworth Staffordshire B79 7DN

Exclusive joint packages available. After your wedding ceremony, why not continue your wedding day at the nearby Assembly Rooms.

The newly refurbished Tamworth Assembly Rooms provides a stunning and versatile space for the perfect wedding reception.

Which honeymooner are you? For most newlyweds this is a trip of a lifetime. No matter how many holidays you will take in the future your honeymoon is an experience like no other. It sets the tone for adventure, memories and exploration. No longer is a honeymoon just about the hotel but about the experiences your destination can offer. Should that be a yoga retreat, a cooking class with a local, a private wine yard tour with wine tasting, a trek to view gorillas or maybe just a secluded island. The sunseeker

The Island life

Are you looking to honeymoon during our summer holidays? Do you want to just relax after a short flight. Then Greece is the destination for you. Check out the Ikos hotels, with locations such as Corfu, Kos and Halkidiki, Ikos has the best rated all-inclusive hotels in Europe. Join a sommelier to pair your food & wine, maybe take a Tesla out for the day to explore or why not have a dine out experience at a local restaurant all part of your all-inclusive inclusion.

The Maldives is the most popular honeymoon destination, but how about mixing it up? Split the stay and experience multiple different islands on one trip. We recommend Baros, this resort has a unique feature, you can literally dine anywhere. On the beach, on a sandbank, on a piano deck perched over the lagoon, or n the lush foliage. After 7 days we head to the next resort. This time we are at Ozen. You will wake up to decadent champagne breakfasts, you can dine six meters under the Indian ocean, the famous underwater restaurant.

The luxury lover Are you someone that just loves to over indulge when you travel? Embark on the ultimate Caribbean getaway on the island paradise of Isla Mujeres. Stay in ultra-luxury suites steps away from turquoise waters, world-renowned beaches, and snorkelling along the world’s second-largest coral reef. An exclusive resort boat will transport you to this hidden world of tropical beauty, where you’ll find Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets built gracefully into the natural landscape of the island’s southern side.

The wildlife wonderer Who doesn’t love to combine a tour of the wild. Sri Lanka is a top feature for us. This island has so much to offer from climbing the 600ft Sigiriya rock, heading up the hills to stay and experience a tea plantation. Here you will find the world’s densest population of leopards as well as other wildlife including elephants, sloth bears, jackals and much more. Your stay here is at the ultra-luxurious and ultra-inclusive Uga Chena Huts a unique property that combines local influences with the traditional décor of an African safari lodge.

The endless romantics

The cruise pirates

Are you more cultural? Do you like to visit more than one destination? Then Italy could be a great destination for you. Open all year round, with daily flights from the UK you could even do this as a mini-moon. We recommend 3 nights in Verona followed by a train journey to spend a further 3 nights in Venice. A perfect way to soak up the ultimate in romance. You can visit the famous balcony of Romeo and Juliet then take a gondola ride on the grand canal in Venice.

I bet cruise hasn’t even crossed your mind. But this is the ultimate way to see multiple destinations, unpack once, experience culinary like no other, great entertainment, and tick off a few bucket list excursions. Cruise ships are becoming the destinations in themselves. Take Explora Journeys, this cruise line is all about wellbeing and a state of mind. The ship itself is ultra-modern, luxurious and has Moet champagne on tap. Fast becoming the new way to honeymoon.

So, which one are you? We have two boutique travel agent stores. Our flag ship in Worcester and the sister store in Malvern. Are you planning your honeymoon? Is it all becoming stressful? Are you losing sight of what is important to you and what possibilities there are? We are not a typical travel agent. The team of experts will listen and curate the perfect itinerary to match your requirements and budgets.

Make an appointment with one of our in store experts Worcester: 12 Mealcheapen street, Worcester, WR1 2DH - Call 01905 675015 Malvern: 16 Worcester road, Malvern, WR14 4QW – Call 01684 214848 www.arrangemyescape.com | Don’t forget we have a gift service available for you!

Planning SOS

PLANNING SOS

How to create your dream wedding

ere at Your West Midlands Wedding, we understand how overwhelming organising your nuptials can be. To help, we’ve spoken to local experts and asked for their tips on choosing the perfect suppliers and what you should be aware of before booking.

www.gracedovephotography.com

FINDING YOUR DREAM FLORIST

The first piece of advice I can offer is don’t go for the cheapest quote; it’ll probably be the worst quality! Instead, tell your florist your budget and let them design what will be most impactful and in keeping with your wish list and budget. Be open to which flowers and colours you want included. Your florist is a professional; trust them with your colour scheme and style guidance,

last-minute stress. Before travelling, ensure you have all the necessary documents, like passports and visas. Also, consider flight times for a smooth journey. If you need some advice when planning your honeymoon, consider hiring a company to help. For example, here at Arrange My Escape, we have a vast network of trusted honeymoon suppliers, meaning we know which supplier can perfectly match your requirements. Our extensive supplier network means we give our clients the best value for money without compromising on quality. Share your dream honeymoon wish list, and we’ll take care of all the arrangements, so you can sit back and enjoy your stress-free trip of a lifetime. Jennifer Lynch www.arrangemyescape.com

www.gracedovephotography.com

HOW TO PLAN YOUR HONEYMOON

Couples are naturally drawn to destinations that exude romance and tranquillity, making sandy beaches an obvious choice. Two standout locations for honeymoons are Mauritius and the Maldives, renowned for their secluded beaches adorned with white sand, gentle waves, and breathtaking sunsets. However, the appeal of honeymoon destinations extends beyond the allure of sandy beaches alone. Other popular destinations are those showcasing stunning natural landscapes and offering a plethora of activities to enjoy. From hiking through lush rainforests and dramatic coastal cliffs in Antigua to an animal-lovers dream tour of Madagascar, couples can truly be emersed in a country’s unique vibrancy and culture. Choose a destination that excites both of you and matches your interests. Start planning early to have a wide range of options and the best prices for your budget. Booking in advance can also save you from

and they will create something amazing. We are experts when it comes to picking colours! Don’t sleep on sorting your big suppliers, as these get booked up well in advance. For example, I’m almost fully booked for weekends in 2024! Megan Luck www.muckhomenfloral.com 43

www.shinephotography.co.uk

CHOOSING A PHOTOGRAPHER

Pick a photographer whose work you love and whose images speak to you both as a couple. After all, the photos will be around long after the party is over. Have a good chat with your potential photographer; you’re going to be spending a lot of time with them on your special day, so it’s important that you get along with each other.

Ask to see a full gallery before booking. Everyone puts their best work on their website, whereas a full gallery will give you a true feel for how they will capture your day. James Whittaker www.shinephotography.co.uk

www.andrewab.wedding

FINDING THE RIGHT CELEBRANT

Selecting the right celebrant is a crucial decision when planning a wedding, commitment ceremony, or vow renewal. A celebrant will play a pivotal role in making your special day unique and memorable. Here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect celebrant to ensure your celebration is everything you’ve dreamed of: Determine your needs: Before you start your search, it’s essential to understand your specific needs and expectations. Consider the type of event you’re having, the style you envision, and any cultural or religious elements you want to incorporate. Do you want to include a unity ceremony? Do they have any additional services to offer, such as acting as your master of ceremonies? Knowing your requirements will help you narrow down your options. Research and recommendations: Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or event planners. Create a shortlist of potential celebrants based on these recommendations. Interview prospective celebrants: Set up interviews or meetings with your shortlisted celebrants. This is your chance to get to know them better and assess their personality, style, and experience. Ask questions about their approach, previous ceremonies, and their ability to customise the ceremony to your preferences. Personality and compatibility: It’s important to choose a celebrant whose personality fits well with yours. They will be playing a significant role in your special day, and you want someone who is warm, empathetic, and easy to work with. A good celebrant should be a good listener and be able to connect with you on a personal level. Customisation and personalisation: What’s their own personal style? Does it suit yours? A great celebrant should be able to create a ceremony that reflects your values, beliefs, tastes, themes, venue, and story. Discuss your ideas and expectations, and ensure the celebrant is willing and able to tailor the ceremony to your preferences. Communication and responsiveness: Reliable communication is essential when planning any event. Ensure that your celebrant is responsive to your enquiries and is willing to work closely with you throughout the planning process. This can make a significant difference in the overall experience. Pricing and contracts: Discuss the celebrant’s fees and any additional costs. Make sure you understand what’s included in the package, such as rehearsal time and travel expenses. It’s also important

to have a signed contract that outlines all the details to avoid any misunderstandings. Reviews and references: Ask for references from past clients to get a better sense of their performance and professionalism. Reading reviews and testimonials can provide insight into the celebrant’s reputation and the experiences of others. Gut feeling: Ultimately, trust your instincts. After considering all the practical aspects, go with the celebrant who makes you feel most comfortable and confident. Your intuition can be a powerful guide in making the right choice. Take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts to find the celebrant who’s the perfect fit for your event. Louise Goode www.louisegoodecelebrant.co.uk

E pr Sal xtr ad ese e d a £ ve nt res 50 rt at se o un io s f a til n o up ll 1.4 f th on .2 is 4

by Wedding Belles of Four Oaks

Discover the perfect choice for affordability and sustainability without compromising on style and luxury with off-the-peg wedding dresses. At The Bridal Outlet, we offer a wide selection of modern and to-date designer sample dresses that allow brides to look stunning while reducing their carbon footprint and supporting sustainable fashion practices. Over 90% of our gowns are all under £1,000 with designer dresses from Milla Nova, Essense of Australia, Martina Liana, Evie Young and Maggie Sottero to name a few...

95 1 BELWELL LANE

95 £6

£6

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0121 8208232

SUTTON COLDFIELD

thebridaloutlet_wb4ok B74 4AA

Weddings at Bennetts Willow Barn

Here at Bennetts Willow Barn we offer our couples the chance to have a fun and relaxed wedding celebration, with as much or as little formality and tradition as you feel suits you. We really are a wedding venue with a difference, and you won’t find another one like us! Celebrate the first day of your new lives together with an epic wedding celebration that you and your guests will remember forever. Eat, drink and be merry in the romantic, rustic charm of our unique and spectacular yurt marquee. Play games and enjoy Pimms and Prosecco in the surrounding grounds, and after dusk toast marshmallows around the fire pit. Then dance the night away in our enchanted fairy light-filled rustic party barn.

Manor Farm, Malvern Road, Lower Wick, Worcester WR2 4BS | www.bennettswillowbarn.co.uk | hello@bennettswillowbarn.co.uk

HOW A CELEBRANT CAN HELP PERSONALISE YOUR DAY

www.leanne.photography

When you plan your wedding, you want to make sure that your day is filled with lots of fun and laughter. Your ceremony is probably the most important part of your day and should be memorable and magical for you and your loved ones. Make sure that your ceremony is considered one of the top priorities when planning your wedding. Remember, a celebrant can perform your ceremony anywhere you want; it doesn’t need to be in a licensed venue. Keep in mind that a celebrant-led ceremony is not a legal ceremony, so you will have to book a registry office separately to do the legal bit.

FINDING THE PERFECT VENUE STYLIST

Selecting a wedding stylist is a big decision, so to help, I’ve put together some practical tips to help you choose the perfect supplier: Start early: Begin your search for a wedding stylist as soon as possible. Many stylists get booked well in advance, especially in peak wedding season, so don’t procrastinate. Define your style: Before you begin your search, think about the style you want for your wedding. Create a moodboard or gather inspiration to help you convey your vision to the stylist. Research and recommendations: Ask friends who’ve recently tied the knot for recommendations or do some online research. Read reviews and check out their social media to get a sense of the stylist’s work. Flexibility: Understand that wedding plans can change. Choose a stylist who can adapt to new circumstances. Interview multiple stylists: Don’t settle for the first stylist you find.

www.josephkinerman.co.uk

To add a personal touch, you can include your close family and friends in symbolic rituals such as handfasting, ring warming, or a sand ceremony. Remember, there are no rules or restrictions with a celebrant-led ceremony. You can make the day however you want, and choosing the right celebrant will help guide you and create a unique and personal ceremony tailored to your day. Julie Hatch www.treasuredwordscelebrant.com

www.leanne.photography

www.instagram.com/anthonyhallphotography

PLANNING SOS

Talk to a few and see who you click with. It’s important to make sure their personality and communication style match yours. Budget wisely: Determine a budget for your styling needs. Be clear about what you can afford, and discuss this with potential stylists. A good stylist can help you get the most out of your budget. Collaboration and communication: Effective communication is essential. Find a stylist who is open to your ideas and can work closely with you to create the look you want. Trust your instincts: Trust your gut. If you feel comfortable and confident in a stylist’s abilities, it’s a sign that they’re the right fit for your special day. Kara Owen www.kara-mia.com 47

STYLED SHOOT

As pretty as A FLOWER

A group of local suppliers worked together to create this floral styled shoot at Church Farm Anslow Images courtesy of Gabriela’s Photography & Film

team of local suppliers worked together to highlight the natural charm of a tipi while adding an element of romance and elegance. “A tipi offers an intimate setting for celebrating your special day while embracing nature and the great outdoors,” says Beth Clayton from Sami Tipi. “The strong floral elements created a contrast against the rustic backdrop of the tipi and kept in line with the luxurious theme. The choice of pale pinks and oranges infused warmth and vibrancy into the setting, while the lemon-coloured napkins added a

refreshing pop of brightness. Pale pink table linen served as a gentle base for the overall design, contrasting with the white chiffon chair drapes to enhance the soft and romantic atmosphere. Incorporating gold accents added a sense of opulence and luxury to the setup, and the gold cutlery, tea light holders, and gold-rimmed charger plates and glasses created an elegant aesthetic. The unexpected pop of colour added energy and excitement to the design, aligning well with the summer theme.”

STYLED SHOOT

CONTRIBUTORS TO THE SHOOT Venue, Church Farm Anslow, www.churchfarmanslow.co.uk | Tipi and planning, Sami Tipi, www.samitipi.co.uk | Photographer, Gabriela’s Photography & Film, www.gabrielasphotographyandfilm.com | Dresses, Alice Rose Bridal, www.alicerosebridal.com | Accessories, Bish Bosh Becca, www.bishboshbecca.co.uk | Suits, Brigdens Ltd, www.brigdens.com | Hair and make-up artist, Nicola Whitfield MUA, www.mua-nicky.co.uk Venue styling, Rustic Lily Weddings, www.rusticlilyweddings.com | Cake, The Old Manor House Bakery, www.theoldmanorhousebakery.co.uk Desserts, Westwoods Kitchen, www.westwoodskitchen.com | Flowers, Sophie O’Keeffe Floral Design, www.sophieokeeffe.co.uk Stationery, Ellis Tate Bespoke Wedding Stationery, www.ellistate.com | Outdoor games, Emma Lane Designs, www.emmalanedesigns.co.uk Children’s soft play area, Tumble Tribe Softplay Hire, www.facebook.com/tumbletribesoftplayhire | Models, Yvonne Lea and Daniel Lee 51

Weddings

Over 20 years experience Experts in bespoke wedding floral design to suit you , with lots of experience in many types of wedding flowers, we can work with you to create the florals of your dreams for your wedding day. Isabel offers a bespoke design service for larger budgets or many seasonal packages for the smaller budget. Book today for a complimentary consultation.

AUTHENTIC WEDDING PHOTOGR APHY Friendly and relaxed husband-wife team. Capturing real moments and real emotions with no fake smiles or awkward posing.

www.bluebellphotostudio.co.uk | 07449 966001 @bluebell_photostudio

@bluebellphotos

We cover all midlands region wedding venues from castles, to barns to hotels to teepees in ﬁelds, throughout Warwickshire/ Coventry/westmidlands/Staﬀordshire/Cotswolds including Warwick castle, Swallows Nest Barn, Myths Barn, Hampton Manor, Walton Hall Hotel, Ettington Park, Dodford Manor, The Welcome Hotel, The Manor Hotel - Meriden, The Windmill Village, The Mill Barns, Hyde House, and Blackwell Grange.

07980 776824 Balsall Common - CV77AA WWW.ISABELSFLOWERSTUDIO.COM

Cornwall, a county of beauty and magic; a place of wedding dreams. My Cornwall Wedding: Officially Yours - the only source of bespoke, legal, celebrant-led civil weddings in Cornwall.

www.cornwall.gov.uk/weddings | 0300 1234 181 | @MyCornwallWedding Image Credit: Thomas Frost Photography

HOT TOPIC:

EXPERT ADVICE

wedding worries Our experts solve your problems

HELLO PETAL

I’m thinking of having my wedding flowers preserved. Are there any flowers I should avoid, and how long after the wedding should I send them to the artist? Waxy flowers like orchids and lilies can be tricky to preserve as they quite often lose colour. If this happens, they can be colour corrected, so they don’t need to be completely avoided, just don’t have an entire bouquet of them – mix it up a bit! Texture and colour are everything when it comes to floral preservation, so keep this in mind when planning your wedding flowers with your florist. It’s best to send your blooms to your preservation artist within two to three days after the wedding. Depending on where your preservationist is based in relation to you, you can either drop them off in person or post them. You should be provided with instructions on how best to package and ship your flowers, and some suppliers will also send you tips on keeping your bouquet looking amazing on your wedding day. Ronni Jones www.suspendedpetals.co.uk

RING-A-DING-DING My hubby-to-be and I recently got engaged; how can we take an Instagramworthy engagement photo? With engagement announcements showing up all over social media, couples may be feeling the pressure to take that perfect engagement ring photo to share with family and friends. Sharing the news via social media is a quick and easy way of telling your loved ones the news without having to individually call everyone, which can be overwhelming and time-consuming. With couples feeling on cloud nine after getting engaged, it’s tempting to grab hold of the phone, put the flash on, and take a quick photo to send around. However, using artificial light can lead to blurred, unnatural images that won’t capture the beautiful characteristics of the engagement ring while also making the ring look flat. Instead, opt for diffused natural light to help you produce a great-looking photo. A mixture of hard and soft light can also be extremely beneficial to show off the gorgeous diamond. Backgrounds can pose a challenge, as you might find yourself in a breathtaking setting that you want to feature in your photo, or you could be facing a plain, ordinary wall. Both can serve as suitable backgrounds, but it’s essential to ensure they don’t overshadow the main attraction: the ring. You can’t go wrong with a minimal background, because anything too busy will take the importance off the main part of the image. I would personally always use a slightly darker background to make the hand and ring pop. It’s also important to choose a background that reminds you of where the engagement took place, so you can look back on the picture and feel everything you felt on that special day. Tom Bennett and Karolina Bajda www.instagram.com/_tbennett and www.instagram.com/karolinabajda 53

Cheylesmore Manor House, Coventry

Images courtesy of rwpweddingphotography.com

Coventry is an historic city with a rich and diverse history, situated in the heart of the country. It is known for its medieval Coventry Cathedral which was left in ruins after WWII bombing and home to an unfortified Manor House, previously the only unfortified royal palace outside of London, Cheylesmore Manor is now used as a stunning ceremony venue. The remnants of a medieval royal palace, the gatehouse of Cheylesmore Manor, is at the heart of the city on New Union Street. The magnificent timber building is a key piece of Coventry’s rich and important heritage.

The manor is believed to have been built for the Earl of Arundel in 1237. By 1320 it had passed to Queen Isabella, wife of Edward II, along with the lavish Cheylesmore Park that surrounded it. Her grandson Edward, the Black Prince, took possession of it after her. The building we know today is, in fact, only the gatehouse and parts of two cross wings to the original manor house. The Manor House houses three beautiful ceremony rooms: The Queen Isabella Room, The Black Prince Room and the Library Room.

With bespoke ceremony co-ordinators on hand to guide you through every step of the way, helpful Register Office teams and even easy to manage personalised stationery packages, Coventry can’t wait to welcome you for your ceremony, from weddings to naming days, commitment celebrations and civil partnerships - we can host it all.

www.ceremoniesinsidecoventry.co.uk

Intimate ROMANCE

STYLED SHOOT

A team of talented suppliers worked together to create this beautiful styled shoot at the Anglican Chapel Images courtesy of Dan Foley Photography

he Grade II-listed Anglican Chapel was built in 1847 using Hartshill stone in a Norman style. The chapel has undergone extensive restoration and is now equipped with underfloor heating, bronze casement double glazing, and all the facilities to accommodate a range of events, meetings, and ceremonies. Claire Healy, the ceremonies manager for Coventry Registration District, tells us more: “In the mid-Victorian era, as city centre churchyards became overcrowded, carefully designed and landscaped cemeteries on the outskirts of cities became increasingly popular. As well as being natural environments often full of exotic trees and plants, many also displayed beautiful architecture designed by renowned architects of the day. London Road Cemetery is no exception; it was designed by Sir Joseph Paxton, an architect, gardener, and Member of Parliament for Coventry who notably designed Crystal Palace in London. “Having recently been restored to a high level with a new licence for marriages, a team of suppliers worked together to bring the venue back to life after it had been unused for a long time, showcasing its potential for couples looking to tie the knot.”

STYLED SHOOT

Scan to view video

www.catchlight-studio.co.uk

THE DREAM TEAM

Venue, Anglican Chapel, www.historiccoventrytrust.org.uk/venue-hire/anglican-chapel | Photographer, Dan Foley Photography, www.danfoley.co.uk | Videographer, Catchlight Studios, www.catchlight-studio.co.uk | Dress, The Bridal Gallery, www.bridalgallerycoventry.co.uk Suit, Nigel James Dresswear, www.nigeljames.co.uk | Hair stylist, Hair by Paris, www.facebook.com/hairbyparisd | Make-up artist, Mili Fox Make-up Artist, www.milifoxmakeupartist.co.uk | Flowers, Isabel’s Flower Studio, www.isabelsflowerstudio.com | Venue styling, Picture Perfect By Emily, www.pictureperfectbyemily.co.uk 57

Neck candy

www.ratherlovelyfilms.co.uk

This 100% silk scarf with a champagne print is perfect for the party season with prices from £45. To shop,visit www.corinnealexander.co.uk

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Mothers-of-the-bride will love this 100% silk scarf, £89, that’s fit for royalty! To shop, visit https://hortonsengland.co.uk

CHARLOTTE MILLS LAUNCHES NEW-LOOK WEBSITE AND BRANDING Bridal shoe designer Charlotte Mills is excited to announce her updated branding and new website which includes an interactive size guide created to ensure the perfect fit. This follows in the footsteps of her first bridal occasion dress collection consisting of five sassy styles with more to be unveiled in the new year. Whether shopping in-store or online, designer Charlotte wants every bride to have a magical experience. The eco-friendly packaging has been refreshed to include a hand-written note from the designer herself. To find out more and to shop, visit https://charlottemills.com

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

Creative direction, shoes and dress, https://charlottemills.com; Photography, www.emmyshoots.com; Flowers, www.foxflora.co.uk; Venue, Howsham Hall, www.dine.co.uk/venues/howsham-hall/ weddings; Model, www.instagram.com/alannah_victor

Green hues

Shades of green are trending for winter weddings and this full-length forest green multiway gown is a must-have for bridesmaids, £65, www3.next.co.uk

EDITOR LOVES As a yoga fan, I love wearing my cobalt-blue eye jewellery so this solid gold Aura bracelet, £495 has been added to my wish list! To shop, visit www.astleyclarke.com

PERFECT FIT Boosted, the inclusive and supportive breast tape and accessory brand that offers four signature colours to match every skin tone has just launched a white tape, especially for wedding dresses and outfits. To shop, visit https://boostedtape.com

Stepping out in style Club L London has recently unveiled a glamorous new shoe collection perfect for brides, mothers-of-the-bride and bridesmaids. The Stepping Out collection includes stilettos, on-trend platforms and even boots in bold colourways, from scarlet red and hot pink to black, navy and metallics. Embellished details include ankle straps, feathered pom poms and oversized brooches. To shop, visit https://clubllondon.com 58

focus

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend Pandora has recently launched a lab-grown diamond collection of more than 50 dazzling designs, all hand-crafted from 100% recycled silver and gold and created using 100% renewable energy. Designs include pendants featuring romantic hearts, stars and horseshoes plus bezel-set trilogy bracelets, necklaces and rings (pictured). Carat sizes range from 0.15 to 1.75 carats, with prices starting from just £225, https://uk.pandora.net/en

SOMETHING BLUE This blue ruffle gown, £110, is perfect for bridesmaids and guests this season, www.forevernewclothing.com/uk/new-in

FASHION

IN VOGUE

These model looks showcase the hottest bridal trends for 2024, with delicate details, texture takeovers and playful shorter styles

Clean lines by www.kellyfaetanini.com 59

Beautiful ballgowns by www.madelinegardnernewyork.com/en

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Corsetry by www.thereformation.com 60

Short and sassy by https://charlottemills.com

Frivolous frills by www.sophiatolli.com at Bridal Week Harrogate

FASHION

A short jumpsuit by www.rosaclara.es/en

Long sleeves by www.savannahmiller.com

Bridal coats by Marchesa for www.pronovias.com/gb 61

Strappy styles by www.alexandragrecco.com

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Thigh-high splits by www.airebarcelona.com/en-gb 62

Detachable sleeves by www.andreahawkes.co.uk

FASHION

Button-down back by https://graceloveslace.co.uk

Bespoke bridal pet accessories by www.hermionedepaula.com

Liquid satin that will never date by www.katherinetash.com 63

Gieves & Hawkes, The Mailbox, Unit 46, Wharfside Street, Birmingham B1 1RE

0121 399 0221 birmingham@gievesandhawkes.com www.gievesandhawkes.com

All eyes ON YOU

LOOKING YOUR BEST

Tips to ensure you look your best on the big day

ith trends constantly changing and the added pressure of looking your best, we understand how overwhelming the wedding planning process can be. To help make things a bit easier, we’ve rounded up some of the region’s top suppliers and asked for their tips and trend predictions for 2024…

STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD

Every year, the wedding dress industry blows my mind a little bit more with its creativity and flair for the dramatic, and 2024 is set to be no different. Blush dresses have been around for a while, but this season we will be seeing even more of them, as well as other pastel colours. There will also be more florals available. We have a beautiful gown coming in that is actually a floral twopiece; it’s absolutely stunning and perfect for a bride who’s looking for something whimsical or a bit different. Two pieces are definitely going to be big! Bows are also going to be on-trend, both small and big. Small versions will be adorning head dresses and veils, and bigger bows will act as key features in dress backs, but we’re also expecting to see some worked into

capes too. Watch this space! Black dresses are back with a bang. Last year, we saw more brides daring to be bold with a black ballgown. This season, the silhouette will change to be more fitted; think sleek, elegant, dramatic, timeless gowns. Combine that with a detachable overskirt, and brides will be wowing all over the world. Next year is going to be an exciting one, perhaps the most exciting one yet, and we actively encourage our brides to be different and customise their gowns to make them as unique as you. Jennifer Jamieson www.avamaybridal.com 65

www.nelliephotography.co.uk

BRIDAL BEAUTY

Here are some of my 2024 make-up trend predictions: Natural and glowing: The barely-there look aims to create a fresh and natural look. Think about enhancing your features without making them appear too heavy. In the lead-up to your wedding, look after your skin by using the appropriate skincare products and drinking enough water. This is a must to help you achieve natural glowy skin. Some of my favourite products to help create this look are Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre Multi-Purpose Moisturise, the ultimate moisturising primer to use before you apply your foundation. It helps smooth and plump your skin and give it added illumination. Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Flawless Filter is a very versatile product that can be used by itself for an added glow or under your foundation. For even more glow, you can add a small amount to the top of your cheekbones after applying your foundation. Dior Backstage Glow Face Palette in 001 is perfect for highlighting your cheeks, adding a highlight to the inner corner of the eyes, or as an eyeshadow. Benetint Lip Stain & Liquid Blush Tint is the OG of tints. Although in the bottle it may look very bright, when applied and patted into your lips, it gives a beautiful natural flush tone with great staying power. Expensive luxe: Think red carpet glam. Polished, healthy-looking skin that’s not too heavy. Usually paired with a flush of colour on the cheeks and soft matte tones on the eyes, with no harsh lines as the liner is smudged right by the lashes with individual lashes added to elongate the eyes. Finished with a neutral lipstick and naturally defined lips using an ever so slightly darker liner. Products to create to help create this look are Dior Rosy Glow Blush in Rosewood. All the shades are beautiful, but Rosewood in particular has a luxurious-looking tone to it. Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette is a great palette with all the neutral matte tones you’ll ever need. 66

Charlotte Tilbury’s Lipstick in Runway Royalty is a nude peach tone with a fresh, dewy satin look. Soft smoky eyes: Smoky eyes is a classic trend that will remain at the forefront in 2024. Neutral tones can work well, as you can add drama in a more natural way. If you’re feeling like you’d like to be a bit bolder, you can try adding a touch of shimmer and sparkle. To elevate the look further, either add individual lashes or a strip lash. Create this look with Tom Ford Eye Color Quad in Nude Dip, a beautiful, cooler-toned eyeshadow palette that blends like a dream. Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow in Kitten Karma will add sparkle to your look. Use it along the lash line over the top of an eye liner for just a tiny bit of sparkle, or apply it all over the lid for a full glitter effect. Sweed The Signature No Lash Lash can be applied where needed and built up to create a fuller flutter. Retro glam/statement lip: Statement lips are making a comeback, with deep red and berry tones being popular. The vintage style was huge within the industry around 10 years ago, but as of 2024, parts of the retro glam vibe are returning. Focus on the bold matte lips with added eyeliner. Think Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. Hero products to create this look are Mac Lip Conditioner, the best product to prep and prime your lips ahead of lipstick application. It helps to banish dryness and moisturise your lips. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Love Liberty is a beautiful, bold berry red shade that is an easily wearable matte lipstick. Mac Lipstick in Ruby Woo is my go-to matte red lipstick. Perfectly blue-toned red for helping whiten the look of your teeth as well as adding a pop of colour. Chloe McCall www.chloemccall.com

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Congratulations!

You have found your forever person, now it’s time to fall in love with your dream dress. Based in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham our beautiful award winning boutique has 300+ dresses AND 3 gorgeous luxury bridal suites offering our brides the ultimate wedding dress shopping experience. Here at Wedding Belles we are all about creating memories that will last a lifetime.... Get your #bridetribe together & enjoy a choice of bridal experiences Including our popular Belles, Bubbles & Confetti appointments that will make shopping for your wedding dress truly a day to remember. We can’t wait to meet you and hear all about your exciting wedding plans!

Love Claire, Mel & the WB team

0121 3234033

www.weddingbellesbridal.co.uk

Weddingbelles_4oaks

7 2 WA L S A L L R O A D , F O U R O A K S , S U T T O N C O L D F I E L D , W E S T M I D L A N D S , B 7 4 4 Q Y

Helen Barley Harpist and Singer

01384 877572 07711 128572 helenharp@mac.com www.helenbarley.co.uk Helen Harp

With many designs to choose from, it’s easy to theme your wedding day online and over the phone at Bunji. We offer foil-stamped invitations, UV-printed invitations, screen-printed invitations and letterpress invitations. To meet our customer’s requests, we are constantly updating our product line, which now includes acrylic invitations, vellum paper invitations, wedding signs and speciality paper in various colours.

01926 283222 ▪ info@bunji.co.uk ▪ UNIT 8/9 RIGBY CLOSE

www.bunji.online ▪

BunjiWedding ▪

H E AT H COT E I N D U S T R I A L E S TAT E

WARWICK

bunji_wedding CV34 6TH

LOOKING YOUR BEST

LOVELY IN LACE

brides-to-be structure and a gorgeous shape. Lastly, nude and ivory-coloured dresses are going to be popular in 2024. The team at Heavenly Wedding Belles www.heavenlyweddingbelles.co.uk

www.dearestlove.co.uk

Here at Heavenly Wedding Belles, we have noticed three main trends that will appearing in 2024 wedding dresses. The first is 3D lace and appliqué. This beautiful embellishment appeared more and more throughout 2023, and we see this continuing next year. Illusion and boned bodices are also on-trend; this design gives

THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT

Here at TDR Bridal Birmingham, we’ve responded to the requests of numerous lovely brides by adding a fresh collection to our boutique: charming and playful short dresses. These dresses have gained popularity and were inspired by Sophie Habboo’s custom Vivienne Westwood gown. Many of our brides expressed a desire to follow this trend, which prompted us to invest in this exquisite collection. Opting for a second look has always been a fantastic way to transition from your ceremony to your evening celebration, whether it involves

additional overshirts or a change in accessories. However, with these affordable short dresses, you can create the perfect outfit. Whether you’re in search of a second dress for a quick change or attire for your engagement party or elopement, these dresses are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Our collection offers a range of designs and styles to cater to your unique taste and fashion sense. The team at TDR Bridal Birmingham www.tdr-bridal.co.uk 69

9-carat white gold diamond necklace, £375, www.ernestjones.co.uk Sterling silver and white zirconia earrings, £215, https://sifjakobs.uk

Pearl hoop earrings, £90, https://graceloveslace.co.uk

Sterling silver initial necklace, £79, https://chlobo.co.uk

Party

14-carat white gold coronet ring, £840, www.dowerandhall.com

PIECES

Satin jewelled bag, £36, www3.next.co.uk

Dazzle at a Christmas or winter wedding in stunning silver and crystal accessories Silver and white topaz bracelet, £170, https://vbylauravann.com

Sterling silver personalised bracelet, £59, www.mercimamanboutique.com/en

Hollywood earrings, £145, https://victoriapercival.com Aphrodite halo headband, £1200, https://victoriapercival.com

Aurora halo headband, £425, https://victoriapercival.com

Silver mirror headband, £34, www.busbyandfox.com 70

Crystal and velvet hair bow, £24, www.braidandbow.com

Great gift idea

Silver-plated bracelet, £17.99, https://jomajewellery.com

FASHION

A touch

OF COLOUR Winter isn’t about wearing a white wedding dress, pick a fruit-pastel inspired shade or something a little bolder

Accessorize with a coloured veil, www.reemacra.com 71

Pick pretty pastel-coloured floral prints, https://clairepettibone.com

Something blue is always in fashion, https://inesdisanto.com

Bright and beautiful, https://madilane.com at Bridal Week Harrogate

Add a hint of pink with a cute bridal belt, www.alexandragrecco.com

Be beautiful in blush, https://uk.dessy.com

Choose a bold scarlet floral print, www.thereformation.com

FASHION

Peachy pink, http://foxbridal.com.au at Bridal Week Harrogate

Going for green, www.hermionedepaula.com

Add a pop of colour with lilac touches, www.madelinegardnernewyork.com/en

A champagne-coloured underlay adds a subtle touch of colour, www.eseazenabor.com

Ombre shades of peach are the new grey, www.kellyfaetanini.com

Soft pink hues are perfect for the day and the dancefloor, Marchesa by www.pronovias.com/gb 73

A PRESSING PROBLEM

If you’re a beauty blender lover you’ll already know that cleaning them can be a challenge. However, most are made from non-biodegradable materials, so it’s sustainably important to persevere. Not only that, brace yourselves, Stylpro recently discovered that 34 per cent of make-up tools contained more bacteria than the average toilet brush! Thankfully Stylpro has a solution to this grim problem, and it’s gone TikTok viral. The Squeeze Makeup Sponge Cleaner deep cleans your sponges in one minute, squeezing and spinning them until they sparkle. The kit includes everything you need to tackle the dirty work. £39.99, www.stylpro.co.uk

SOFT AND SUBTLE

The whole editorial team has fallen in love with GloWISH’s latest launch, Super Jelly Lip Balm. Infused with ingredients that leave lips glowing and healthy-looking, the lip jellies don’t just feel good on the lips, they truly care for them. We all know superfoods do wonders for our health and nourish the body from the inside out, which is why each jelly contains either blueberry, goji berry seed, matcha tea or coconut/MCT oils, which work together to provide hydration and give an antioxidant boost to help soften and smooth. We all adore the subtle flush of colour and gorgeous glow they leave behind. £18, www.sephora.co.uk

Beauty BUZZ

Get the look with the latest must-haves

NEW SEASON, NEW YOU

HAZY DAYS

Mystical Dream is a mesmerising new fragrance from Ghost reminiscent of a picture-perfect tropical sunset, which made me think it would be right up a honeymooner’s street! Opening with bursts of blackcurrants and sweet orange, the aroma is heightened by black pepper, before bringing you to its heart of jasmine and orange flower. With base notes of patchouli and vanilla, it’ll leave you feeling enveloped in a fruity and floral blanket. Belonging to the floral, amber, fruity fragrance family it boasts a warm, luxurious energy. £29, 30ml, www.theperfumeshop.com 74

Get the winter look with the latest additions to Barry M’s Chisel Cheeks family, the Cream & Powder Contour Duo (£9.99). Super-easy to use, simply blend the cream contour shades across the hollow parts of your face to sculpt, and add definition with the powder contour shade. For even more control, use the new Precision Contour Stick (£6.99) to create definition under the cheekbones, temple and nose. Then, use the highlight shade to bring some brightness to the cheeks, forehead and chin for that perfectly sculpted look. You can shop the Chisel Cheeks range at https://barrym.com

SECRET SKINCARE WEAPON

Social media influencer Lucy Edwards stunned on her big day recently, and her make-up artist Kirsty Martin (www.instagram.com/kirstyemartinmua) revealed her skin-prep secret: iconic A-list favourite Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre Nourishing Moisturiser, which you can pick up at Boots for just £13. A tube of this popular crème is bought every 13 seconds and leaves skin plump, feeling smooth, supple and toned; all thanks to a simple formula made with rich, natural ingredients. This multi-tasking moisturiser can even be used as a primer by day and cleanser by night.

SPELLBINDING

Nail guru Leighton Denny MBE has once again taken the beauty world by storm with the launch of his new, breathtaking Leighton Denny Super Wings Polish. As the latest, addition in the best-selling Wings Collection this beauty is totally mesmerising, adding a touch of enchantment to your fingertips. I love the idea of applying it as a top coat over your classic bridal French manicure to give it a gorgeous multidimensional rainbow effect, or wear over a darker base colour to create your own shade. £12.50, www.leightondenny.com

NATURE’S AROMA

Chandrika Thomas London is a distinguished luxury perfume brand renowned for its fragrances derived from the highest quality botanical ingredients. Each one is the epitome of pure opulence and elegance, taking you on a journey of sensory indulgence, the perfect candidates for your signature wedding day scent. What’s more, when you order a 100ml (£158) or 50ml (£99) perfume, you receive a complimentary 15ml gift, allowing you to explore the range further. Divine scents include Allure Rose Blossom Oud; Grapefruit, Lavender and Sage; Early Grey and Jasmine; Thyme, Mandarin and Fig; and so many more. Check out www.chandrikathomas.co.uk

RADIANT BRIDE

Following Ekin-Su’s huge success surrounding her edit with BPerfect Cosmetics, Ekin and her team are back with a new product – the BPerfect X EkinSu Radiant Blush. Both a shimmer blush and highlight combined into a lightweight, buildable formula, with light-reflecting golden pigments, it’s infused with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and camellia oil, meaning it melts onto the skin for a sunkissed flush of colour. The vegan and cruelty-free formula can be used on the cheeks, temples, forehead and bridge of the nose for a radiant glow, and is suitable for all skin tones. £16.95, www.bperfectcosmetics.com

TURN UP THE GLOW

You may know MAC Cosmetics for its matte formula foundations, but now it’s time to turn up the glow! The brand’s new serumpowered foundation fuses the science of skincare with the power of make-up. A medium buildable texture, it offers smoothing coverage and evens out skin tone without masking, providing 24hour hydration with lasting radiance. Its 88 per cent serum-based formula combines 33 skincare ingredients, including a 10 per cent hyaluronic acid solution. Available in 56 shades, you’re bound to find your perfect match. £39, www.maccosmetics.co.uk

BEAUTY NEWS

FOREST FEELS

British fragrance maker Molton Brown has introduced its newest scent, Wild Mint & Lavandin – a fresh aromatic collection. Its creator senior perfumer Nathalie Koobus says, “I wanted to capture the forest walks in my home of Provence, where nature’s invigorating air of verdant herbaceous shrub is edged by purple fields of lavandin.” Instantly stimulating yet soothing, the gorgeous new collection includes an Eau de Parfum (£120, 100ml or £16, 7.5ml), an Eau de Toilette (£85, 100ml), and a Bath & Shower Gel (£25, 300ml). Check out www.moltonbrown.co.uk

BACK TO LIFE

Sand & Sky Tasmanian Spring Water Splash Serum is a powerful combination of Tasmanian spring water and sea kelp, providing your skin with an ultrahydrating formula to leave it smooth and radiant. Enriched with essential minerals and a hyaluronic acid complex, it keeps your skin plump and soft, while protecting against inflammation and strengthening your skin barrier. Blended with fermented sea kelp your once dull and lifeless skin is restored to health and youth. £39, www.facethefuture.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY FLAWLESS

Institut Esthederm Intensive Propolis+ Purifying Cleansing Gel with amino acids is an ideal solution for skin with blemishes and wrinkles as it targets both. This luxurious gel will gently, but efficiently cleanse the skin, helping to minimise imperfections, while providing soothing and long-lasting hydration. It’s been formulated with exclusive technologies and patented active ingredients. £30, www.lookfantastic.com 75

Beauty queen

We chat to Hannah Martin about her new book, Makeup, and all things bridal beauty

annah Martin is a world-class make-up artist to the stars and one of the most respected professionals in the industry. With 15 years experience, she works her magic everywhere from catwalks to masterclasses, as well as creating looks for industry giants such as L’Oréal Paris, Clé de Peau Beauté and SpaceNK. In February 2020, she joined Channel 5’s revamped 10 Years Younger in 10 Days as its resident beauty expert, where her life-changing makeovers were an instant hit with audiences. A YouTube sensation with more than four million views, Vogue hailed her the queen of radiant skin and smoky eye tutorials while her social channels are a treasure trove of easy make-up tips and tutorials for novices and seasoned professionals alike. Now, Hannah shares her expertise in a new must-have book: Makeup. CWM beauty editor Kelly Andrews caught up with her at the time of its launch to tap into her wealth of knowledge on bridal beauty and skin prep know-how. Congratulations on the launch of your book. What can you tell us about it? Thank you! I’ve always been passionate about helping people do their make-up and understand how products work and how to master different application techniques so it was the logical next step to put everything I’ve learnt over the last 20 years onto paper, creating a resource people can either read from cover to cover or dip in and out of as and when they want to. I hope the result is an easy-to-read guide for those interested in make-up.

Some of the work you’re most famous for is creating flawless bridal make-up for Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice. Are there any elements of these royal looks that our brides could apply to their own for the big day? I want to help all my brides achieve a beautiful make-up look that will last all day and make them feel amazing. I’ve mainly worked on the basis that bridal make-up should be timeless and not dated by trends. I suppose the looks I’m best known for are more on the natural side but I have a little secret: natural make-up doesn’t mean minimal, it’s just make-up that allows a person’s natural beauty to shine through. It means a sheer base so you can see your skin, eye make-up that frames without overwhelming, and lip and cheek colours that enhance the tones naturally present in the skin. Brides need their make-up to last all day. How can they make sure it doesn’t slide of their faces by the speeches? It starts at skin care. I love rich plumping moisturisers but on a wedding day it’s advisable to use light layers of water-based hydration so your skin is moisturised but not slippery, meaning products have a better grip. Light layers of concealer and foundation worked in well lasts significantly better than thick layers, and setting powder is essential. I know a lot of brides don’t like to use powder but a little under the eyes, around the nose and chin will lock the base in place before you finish with a spritz of a setting spray. Powder applied with a brush will set lightly, powder applied with a sponge or puff will set even more effectively. Just be sure to use a setting spray that’s made for longevity and not for rehydration because you could inadvertently be adding more moisture, which won’t help it to stay put. 76

There’s an emerging trend for brides to switch up their attire from daytime to evening bash. Can this be applied to make-up too and how can they transform to a party look quickly and easily? I love this trend but I do remind brides that it’s the one day to be as present as possible and not spend all day in the make-up chair, so I like to suggest quick and easy tweaks. The easiest after a quick base touch up is to add a bold lip. A bright red is so fun for brides who like the idea of the impact but don’t want to wear red all day or for the all important first kiss. My other go-to is a smoky eye. The addition of a darker shadow all over the lid and up through the crease with a sparkle shadow pressed on top makes for the most beautiful soft, smoky eye that shouldn’t take longer than about half an hour. I usually do this while the hair stylist redoes the hair.

INTERVIEW

How can our readers ensure their skin is in tip top shape providing the perfect canvas for their W-day make-up artist? The best thing you can do is drink water! Yes cleansing and exfoliating are extremely important but being really well hydrated from the inside out can make a whole world of difference to the skin. I also advise my brides to go easy on the sugar intake in the week leading up to the wedding and to avoid excessively salty food the night before, as this can result in puffiness and water retention on the big day. What I strenuously suggest brides don’t do is try facials or treatments before the wedding that they’ve never tried before. So many times I’ve been confronted with brides who have either had a reaction or their skin has broken out as a result of a treatment they’ve not had before. If you’re in the habit of having facials then by all means continue but don’t have one, or indeed any other new treatment right before the wedding, if you’ve never done so before, as they could have a negative impact on your skin. In your new book you talk about the tools needed for the job. Is there a set of basics that we should all have in our make-up bags? Tools are key when it comes to make-up application. I’m an avid believer in using your fingers if you’re happy to do so but if not then decent brushes make all the difference. It’s a bit like cooking: chopping an onion with a bent, blunt knife is a real challenge but like slicing butter if you have a good quality kitchen knife. The same goes for make-up brushes. As a make-up artist I own hundreds but not everyone needs that many. A base brush for all cream and liquid products (like skincare, foundation, cream bronzer, cream blush); a powder brush (for powder, blusher and bronzer); an angled brush (for eyeliner and eyebrows); and a classic eyeshadow brush are the key essentials along with a decent eyelash curler. A smoky eye is one of your trademarks. How can this be adapted to suit a bridal look? When I create a smoky eye for a bride I tend to keep the shades I use a little softer than I would for a red carpet moment just to ensure the eyes aren’t lost in too much darkness. I’m obsessed with soft bronze shadows all over the lid with dark brown kohl smudged along the lash line and a few lashes added for a little extra lash density. If bronze isn’t your tone then any muted shade like grey, heather, mink, mocha, mushroom are all gorgeous for a soft smoky eye.

What is it that makes you so passionate about make-up and skincare? I’ve always loved the creativity and art of make-up. I never tire of trying new products and experimenting with trends but as I’ve gotten older I’ve realised that actually what I love most about my job is helping other people feel good about themselves. I’ve had the privilege of seeing complete transformations with clients over the years, there’s something so magical about lavishing someone with your time, care, attention and artistry and seeing someone morph from shy, reserved and lacking in energy to beaming with confidence thanks to liking what they see in the mirror. I can assure you the make-up itself is only partly responsible for the transformation, it’s more about the personal connection made between artist and client. What’s been your career highlight so far? I’ve been lucky enough to have many but one of my greatest accomplishments is my book, Makeup. I’m not an academic and writing has never come easy. In fact I gave up on my dissertation at university because it was all together too much for me, and I ended up getting a diploma instead of a degree. So, to think almost 20 years later I managed to get my words out and actually wrote a book, a book that was number two in the Sunday Times best-seller list no less, is extraordinary to me. What’s next for you? Now that’s a question! I absolutely love what I do and I feel extremely grateful that that’s the case. I loved my time on 10 Years Younger so would always be open to another opportunity in TV but I’ve also loved working with brands on various product development moments and collaborations so I hope to do more of the same. I’d love my own brand one day but the market is so oversaturated at the moment so it won’t be any time soon. Makeup by Hannah Martin is published by HQ, Harper Collins. Available in hardback, £22, and in eBook and audio formats. You can follow Hannah on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ hannahmartinmakeup, and on YouTube at www.youtube.com/BBProHannahMartin

The lips are going to get a lot of attention on the big day! So, what do you suggest to make them perfectly kissable with colour that has staying power? A gentle scrub is imperative the evening before the wedding or at least three hours prior (to allow for any redness to subside). A simple sugar scrub will gently exfoliate the lips so they feel soft and smooth allowing lip balm to absorb efficiently. More importantly lip products will sit seamlessly without any visible cracks or flakes. Be sure to apply balm first thing in the morning as part of your cleansing routine to start the hydration process then again at the very start of your make-up application to make sure the lips are as soft as they can be. Blot away any excess before lipstick is applied. I prefer to line the lips first with long-wearing liners, then fill in with a long-wear liquid lipstick – I find sheer layers best for both comfort and wear. Then, for a soft finish, I press on a creamy lipstick and a tiny bit of gloss so the lips look full and plump. The liquid lipstick underneath acts as an insurance and the colour lasts for hours. A touch-up kit is essential and I always suggest my brides remove all remnants of lip colour, apply some balm, blot, then reapply for the freshest look. 77

Well grounded If wedding planning stress is getting the better of you, take this time-out with Ground Wellbeing’s Peigin Crowley

n award-winning spa consultant Peigin Crowley has spent more than 20 years crafting distinctive and transformative wellness products and treats for fivestar luxury properties. But in 2020, her attention shifted to the home. Experiencing the devastating impacts of stress, burnout, loss of identity and disconnection from the natural world, she embarked on a quest to create products and at-home rituals that could easily be incorporated into a daily self-care routine. Today her brand, Ground Wellbeing, continues to grow, focusing on craft and quality over quantity, sustainable business practices and the promotion of accessible and intuitive self-care for all. Committed to the power of touch, the brand’s rituals are created by Peigin to deliver carefully developed massage treatments through her years of work as an aromatherapist, where she gained a deeper sense of empathy, compassion and understanding. She is also dedicated to addressing women’s health issues. Here, Peigin tells us how to tackle wedding planning stress and build an effective self-care routine amidst a hectic schedule.

sure you’re both on the same page. Always remember the why – remind yourselves why you’re getting married in the first place. Focus on the love and commitment you share rather than getting lost in the details of the event.

TIME TO RECONNECT I think it’s really important to understand how we wake into the day, and how we go to sleep at night. Our first 10-15 minutes of the morning as we wake up into the day are crucial in terms of our attitude, intention and breathwork, as well as just being kind to ourselves. Likewise, at the end of the day, using aromatherapy products to help you slow down, helps invite sleep and gives you a moment to reconnect with yourself. So, those would be the two most important times of the day to remember to look after yourself, then you can build your self-care routine from there. When we’re busy, we can tend to forget to look after ourselves. We need to recognise the importance of self-care and make it a nonnegotiable part of our daily or weekly schedules. Understand that taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity.

BETTER TOGETHER The first thing to say is that it’s natural to be overwhelmed and stressed in the run up to your wedding. It’s a really important day and you want all your friends and family to enjoy it. Acknowledge these feelings with each other and book out time each week to go on a walk or do something together. Take some time out where you don’t speak about the wedding at all! Do something else to take your minds off it, relax and focus on each other. Prioritise self-care routines individually and as a couple: go for a massage, have a treatment together, or just relax and de-stress. Even just running each other a bath and making sure you acknowledge the stress and really looking after each other is helpful. Communication is key, so voice concerns with one another and make

WHY NOT TRY... Ground Wellbeing Talamh Balancing Body Oil Increase mindfulness and help manage stress with this non-greasy, skin-softening blend of botanical oils. Infused with balancing extracts of frankincense and geranium bourbon, this thoughtful formula provides clarity and mental fortitude to steady the mind, paired with sweet orange to ignite the senses. Use whenever you need to instantly nourish skin and restore balance. It can also be applied to pulse points during the day or used to support breathwork. Ground Wellbeing Beo Focus Spray Made using 100 per cent natural essential oils, sage and cedarwood boost concentration and memory to create an ideal environment for productivity and focus. Spritz on upholstery or clothing (not your wedding dress just in case) to add energy and focus to your day. Find these products at more at www.groundwellbeing.com

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE Macdonald Ansty Hall Hotel is set amongst 8 acres of private grounds, featuring magnificent views of the surrounding Warwickshire countryside - a magical setting for your wedding celebrations. Our Award winning venue also offers luxurious accommodation in the very heart of Shakespeare Country, which will prove a spectacularly luxurious base for your wedding party. Our suites can comfortably seat up to 120 wedding guests, with the capability of housing up to 150 people for your evening reception. Our function rooms feature stunning views of our beautiful landscaped gardens, providing you with the most romantic of venues in the charming Warwickshire countryside. Our staff will gladly assist you during your journey, every step of the way - our dedicated wedding planner will help you with all aspects of wedding planning and the chefs at Macdonald Ansty Hall Hotel will cater to your every need. Plus, we also offer exclusivity of the entire venue which can be tailor-made with a bespoke package.

Find your dream venue at www.anstyhall.com or call 02476 612 222 Ansty Hall, Main Road, Ansty, Warwickshire. CV7 9HZ

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? The winter weather can be harsh on the skin, so the best thing to do is get yourself into a good skincare regime. This doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. The most important thing is to keep moisturised, as the cold weather can really dry your skin out. Keep a travel-size moisturiser with you at work, and if you feel your skin getting tight, then reapply it on your break. Cleanse your skin twice a day and use a serum afterwards, one with hyaluronic acid in it, to help keep your skin hydrated. Try to use a separate day and night moisturiser, as nighttime moisturisers are generally a little richer. Once or twice a week, use a scrub. This will help to remove any excess dry skin, keeping it smooth and ready for make-up application. Why not pamper yourself occasionally with a face mask? I personally love an overnight moisturising one, as you wake up feeling so fresh. Once you find a routine that works for you, stick with it! Don’t try anything different too close to your wedding day in case it doesn’t work for you. Emily Rogers www.instagram.com/emily.adele.makeup.artist

Dehydration, or what some people may refer to as make-up going ‘cakey’, is a skincare issue. No matter what make-up you put over the top of dehydrated skin, it will still look dehydrated. Think of an uneven surface. When you paint over the top of it, you’ll still be able to see the uneven surface underneath. However, if you paint over a smooth surface, the paint will go on flawlessly. The same goes for your skin! Correcting dehydrated skin is easier than you may think. Add a scrub to your skincare routine to buff away any pesky dead skin cells two to three times a week in the months leading up to your wedding. Cleanse twice a day with a cleansing balm, moisturise day and night, use an eye cream, a serum, and daily SPF (yes, even when it’s cloudy) will be a game changer to how make-up sits on your face. Lastly, make sure you increase your water intake. This will revitalise dull and dehydrated skin to create a smooth base, perfect for your wedding make-up. By working with your make-up artist and doing the above as homework, you will be able to create the perfect base for your wedding day that will last. www.thevedrines.com

Q&A

BRIDAL BEAUTY I have dehydrated skin, and I’m worried my make-up will stick to the dry patches. What do you suggest?

Ruth Starkie www.facebook.com/ruthstarkiemua www.katiealexandraphotography.co.uk

ty u a e B & n o i h s a F

WHERE THE WIND BLOWS

www.antoniagracephotography.co.uk

I’m worried about the weather ruining my hair at our December wedding. Do you have ideas or styles I should go for to ensure it looks great all day?

This is a concern that lots of brides share. Unfortunately, the weather is one big factor that we can’t control, even for summer weddings. My immediate thought would be to opt for an up do. With this style, the hair will be pinned up in position and should stay in place even if it gets drizzled on. In terms of the type of up do, you have a couple of options. Either opt for a sleek classic bun, which would keep all your hair tucked away, or go for a messy boho-style up do, which, if it gets hit by the weather, can add to the texture of the style, particularly if your hair is naturally curly or wavy. Charlotte Lewis www.thatnaturalbridevibe.com

EXPERT ADVICE

SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A DIAMOND What jewellery will be popular for weddings in 2024? In terms of engagement and wedding rings, I’ve seen clients becoming more playful and bold in their choice of jewellery, so I expect to see a rise in chunky creations in 2024 and perhaps more gemstone set designs. Our signature Art Deco style is seeing a real revival at the moment, so I imagine step-cut stones like emerald cuts and asscher cuts will also gain in popularity. Our pearl earrings continue to be the go-to choice for brides, as do our tennis bracelets, as they’re perfect for the big day and beyond. While we’re seeing a rise in confident designs, our clients are still keen to have an element of longevity. Timelessness, of course, will forever be in style. Laura Vann www.vbylauravann.com

A TOUCH OF GLAMOUR I’d like to give my bridal look a touch of glamour. What would you suggest for a winter wedding? For me, glamour means lavish looks with a hint of playfulness. A lot lies in the finer details, such as considering how your complexion will reflect in the lower light and how your silhouette will form as the golden hour approaches and the natural light fades away. As strobe lighting and disco balls take daylights place, your makeup must hold up while your hair takes centre stage. Flyaways will be visible in the contrast of light and dark. While this is fitting for a relaxed, bohemian ceremony, you may think about a hairstyle that provides more hold or incorporates more gloss. Opt for some sparkly hair jewellery. This will look beautiful and become a focal point after your veil is removed. Consider the quality of your piece and how consistent it is with your theme. Your make-up will be most impactful where you can incorporate darker accents. This doesn’t mean you have to opt for a full smokey eye. For example, try some cluster lashes to frame and accentuate your eye shape; experiment with some tight liner to thicken the lash line; choose a deeper tone of blush; define your brows; and be bold when choosing a lip shade, always lining first for the perfect pout. Glamour quite literally means ‘a magic spell’ and winter provides the perfect backdrop for you to have your guests and spouse spellbound.

What wedding dress styles and colours would you suggest for a winter wedding?

Naomi Scott-Milton www.naomikymberleybridal.co.uk

The team at June Peony Bridal Couture www.junepeonybridal.co.uk

WINTER BLUES

When choosing a style for a winter wedding, it’s a good idea to keep it seasonal; go for something a bit more covered-up instead of a sheer design. High necks and long sleeves with tulle and lace appliqué are on trend at the moment, or you could go for a heavier fabric such as Mikado or duchess satin with a wide off-the-shoulder neckline. If your preference is something a bit lighter and less covered up, team it with a faux fur or feather shrug, giving it a winter wonderland feel. We think ivory will still be the mainstream colour for most winter weddings in the coming two years, but if you want to add a pop of colour, think forest green, champagne gold, and deep red for a warm, rich look.

Alessandro Gasparini is a new luxury men’s footwear brand. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant culture, arts, and laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle, Alessandro Gasparini’s creations embody the essence of Italian craftsmanship. Collaborating with artisans from the north of Italy, known for their skill in creating fine leather goods, Alessandro Gasparini has crafted a collection that is both simple and sophisticated, suitable for any occasion. Alessandro tells us: “At Alessandro Gasparini, we prioritise craftsmanship, quality, timeless style, and understated elegance. Each pair of shoes reflects our dedication to preserving the legacy of Italian craftsmanship while embracing individuality and inherent refinement.” Discover more at www.alessandrogasparini.com

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

Tateossian has released two new cufflink sets. The Ammonite Cufflinks are available in two limited edition styles. The first combines white mother of pearl and 18k rose gold-plated silver, and the second features a vibrant multi-coloured design paired with rhodiumplated silver. The second new set, the Halo Cufflinks, are presented in two variations, each featuring a distinct coloured stone. Prices range from £215 to £850. To find out more, visit www.tateossian.com KINRADEN, a Danish fine jewellery brand, has seen a significant increase in the demand for men’s luxury jewellery. The brand offers ethically handmade unisex gold and silver earrings, bracelets, cufflinks, and rings. To help keep up with the demand, the brand has increased its retail footprint and has begun stocking its products in stores in Germany, Seattle and China. Visit www.kinraden.com to find out more.

Luxury watch brand Citizen has revealed a new design. Nicknamed Tsuyosa by its Japanese fans, the new automatic watch is affordably priced at £299. Delivered in a versatile 40mm case, the sophisticated stainless steel watch has a seamlessly integrated matching bracelet which makes a strong impression. Underneath an anti-reflective sapphire crystal, the timepiece has a sunray green dial, a date window and silver details, which add to its classic aesthetic. Powered by an automatic movement and offering up to 50 metres of water resistance, the refined timepiece is perfect for special occasions and everyday wear. Head over to www.citizenwatch.co.uk for more information.

Chatham has unveiled its Winter 2023 footwear collection. Inspired by Chatham’s love for the great outdoors, the new collection has been designed with the brand’s nautical roots and country lifestyle in mind. Marrying traditional craftsmanship with the finest materials and attention to detail, the latest range offers the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and Chatham’s signature style. Phillip Marsh, Chatham’s managing director, said: “We are delighted to present our new premium footwear collection for the upcoming season. Embracing autumnal trends and our commitment to the highest quality, comfort, and timeless designs, the Chatham team has meticulously handcrafted each stunning style in our new men’s and women’s Winter 2023 collection.” Find out more at www.chatham.co.uk Strictly star Neil Jones has joined male beauty brand Shakeup as its first ambassador. Shakeup was founded in 2020 by twin brothers Jake Xu and Jake Carnell-Xu. They were inspired by the massive rise in men’s beauty in Asia and the K-pop market. With more men than ever branching out with their beauty routines, the duo created Shakeup to provide affordable, innovative, and solution-driven skincare and cosmetic products and are on a mission to normalise men wearing make-up. Together, Shakeup and Neil have launched the new Age Def-Eye Instant Lifting Eye Cream. Combining caffeine, squalane, shea butter, and two revolutionary trademarked ingredients, it instantly tightens, refreshes, and revives tired-looking eyes, dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet. Neil adds: “I’m really excited to be teaming up with Shakeup. Daily demands and hectic schedules can take their toll on my skin, but looking after it properly is crucial, especially in my line of work. I love Shakeup’s products; they give great results with minimal effort and are great value. A winning combination!” Check out www.shakeupcosmetics.com for more information.

INTERVIEW

Mane ATTRACTION

Influencer Eyal Booker and his brother Ariel reveal their hair care tips for grooms-to-be

odel, TV personality, and influencer Eyal Booker and his brother Ariel Booker have launched Wavy, the Everyday Curl Crème for men. Designed to maintain and enhance curls for all hair types, the everyday cream uses high-quality ingredients and lasts for up to 30 days when used daily. Our grooms’ editor, Melissa Cullen, chatted with Eyal and Ariel to discuss male hair care and the next era of men’s grooming. What do you suggest for grooms-to-be who are conscious about looking after their hair in the run-up to the big day? Don’t do anything drastic or try a new barber or hairdresser; the key is to get your haircut a week or two before the wedding so that if anything goes wrong, there is still enough time for your hair to grow back to your preferred look. It’s important to communicate with your hairdresser about what it is you’re looking for, and then you can go in for a slight touch-up a couple days before the wedding.

People are becoming more conscious of their impact on the environment; how can we choose products that are environmentally friendly but still good for our hair? Always look for brands that are making a conscious effort to be more sustainable. Looking at their packaging is crucial; find a brand that uses sustainable packaging and works towards an eco-friendly future. Most brands are making a conscious effort to be more sustainable and typically mention this on their websites.

How do you recommend styling my hair for the big day? The big day is all about you looking and feeling your best. Go with whatever makes you feel most confident. Our recommendation is to go for a timeless style; your pictures are going to last a lifetime and will remind you of one of the best days of your life, so it’s important that you choose a style that you’re happy with.

What do you consider to be the biggest development in men’s hair in the past five years, and what do you think will be the next big trend? We think it’s within the formulations that are being used. In the past couple of years, consumers have trusted brands, and they weren’t asking any questions. More recently, men have become more aware of the good and bad ingredients and, as such, are looking for them in the products they use. If a brand is quiet about their formulation and/or what they’re putting in their products, the likelihood is that their ingredients are probably not the best for your hair. One in four men in their 30s experiences male pattern baldness. What tips or advice can you give to help men look after their hair and delay this onset? We have noticed that a lot of this comes down to the lifestyle that men have. It’s crucial to make sure that your body is getting the vitamins and nutrients it needs, as this impacts how the body reacts to hair growth. We suggest that males experiencing baldness try taking supplements that strengthen their hair and help it grow back to its potential. This will slow down the balding

process and give men a chance to keep their hair looking its best and, most importantly, feeling its best.

For more information about Wavy, visit www.feelwavy.com 83

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DRESSED Channel your inner James Bond with these black-tie options for the groom-to-be

Velvet Blazer, £99 Shirt & Bow Tie, £40 Tuxedo Trousers, £49 www.marksandspencer.com 84

GROOMS’ FASHION Vintage Italian White Gold Cufflinks, www.susannahlovis.com

Black Duchesse Satin Silk Bow Tie, £65, www.favourbrook.com Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Signature Band Ring, £350, www.tateossian.com

Black Hampton Shawl Lapel Wool Dinner Jacket, £790, www.favourbrook.com Men’s Black Leather Shoes, £39.99, www.tkmaxx.com

‘Deep Black’ Urushi Lacquer – Presage Craftsmanship Series, £1,500, www.seikoboutique.co.uk

Long Sleeve Slim Fit Poplin Shirt, £70, www.lyleandscott.com Burton Men’s Essential Tailored Waistcoat, £50.25, www.lovethesales.com

Pantherella Tailored Socks – Baffin, £37.50, www.pantherella.com

Classic Dan Leather Loafer, £210, www.sebago.co.uk

Black Velvet Cotton Single Breasted 4 Button Piped Waistcoat, £210, www.favourbrook.com

Performance Modern Fit Tuxedo Trousers, £158, www.reiss.com

Signature Octo Cufflinks in Rhodium Plated Silver, £379, www.tateossian.com 85

s w e N

HONEYMOON Travel editor Melissa Cullen reveals new openings and honeymoon essentials

BOTSWANA

SEYCHELLES

Hilton’s signature hotel brand is set to open its first resort in the Seychelles. Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island lies just over 130 kilometres south of Mahé on a pristine atoll fringed by palm forests and protected by its own lagoon and coral reef. Much of Platte Island’s surrounding scenery remains untouched, meaning guests are likely to see native Hawksbill turtles, eagle rays, manta rays, and whale sharks. The resort will be home to 50 seafront villas, all equipped with private pools and personal concierges. For more information, visit www.hilton.com/en/brands/waldorf-astoria

Sitatunga Private Island is a new water-based safari camp in the upper reaches of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Built on a raised, wrap-around private deck, Sitatunga Private Island can accommodate four adults in two private suites. Constructed almost entirely of recycled materials, the camp offers couples a ‘slow safari’ that is as sustainable as it is luxurious. The suites come complete with an indoor lounge, bathrooms with baths and separate showers, a deck with outdoor lounging and seating areas, as well as a private pool with views over the lagoon. Dereck Joubert, the CEO of Great Plains, tells us: “Sitatunga Private Island is unlike any other Great Plains property, pushing the ecodesign boundary in a remote region in Botswana whilst also offering the highest level of hospitality and accommodation. It is also one of the few locations in the world where one can still see sitatunga, the rare aquatic antelope. Head out on a boat to view elephants, crocodiles, and hippos all day, every day.” Discover more about Sitatunga Private Island and its offerings at www.greatplainsconservation.com/safari/sitatunga-private-island

MYKONOS

Known for its blend of Cycladic charm and cosmopolitan energy, Mykonos entices couples with its turquoise waters and lively nightlife. Conveniently located just a short drive from archaeological sites, Once in Mykonos is a luxury hotel with harbour restaurants close by where couples can sample fresh Mediterranean cuisine and relax on whitesand beaches. Private cruises take guests around the island’s picturesque bays and hidden coves, as well as tours of neighbouring islands, Delos and Rhenia. The hotel can also arrange private sea excursions and scuba diving to see Greece’s diverse marine life and traces of the Greek and Roman empire’s ancient ruins underwater. For those looking to relax at the hotel, Once in Mykonos offers a host of new wellness and spa activities, from relaxing sunset yoga sessions with qualified trainers to holistic rituals encompassing the latest technology. Head over to www.onceinmykonos.com for more information. 86

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Margaritaville Beach Resort Cap Cana has been named the ‘Dominican Republic’s Leading Resort for 2023’ by the esteemed World Travel Awards. Situated on picturesque beaches, the resort is an all-inclusive destination featuring 516 rooms and 228 suites across 13 different room categories. Daniel Cazarin, the general manager of Margaritaville Beach Resort Cap Cana, said: “We are honoured and humbled by this incredible recognition. Our sincere gratitude goes out to our team members and industry partners, whose unwavering support and best-in-class service have made this accomplishment possible. We look forward to continuing to provide unforgettable experiences at Margaritaville Beach Resort Cap Cana.” Visit www.karismahotels.com/margaritaville-island-reserve-resorts to find out more.

HONEYMOON NEWS

BORDEAUX, FRANCE

Getty Images

Château Troplong Mondot, a wine estate and boutique hotel in Bordeaux, is celebrating 30 years of insecticide and herbicide-free cultivation. It has also transitioned to being fully ploughed by its 12 resident horses that roam the vineyard between March and November. The Château’s luxury restaurant, Les Belles Perdrix, boasts seasonal menus that capitalise on the best picks from the garden and local suppliers. The restaurant has quickly become one of the most sought-after tables in the area and has been awarded both a Michelin Star and a Green Star in recognition of its sustainable methods. The owner’s compassion for the land is evident from the fascinating winemaking process through to the thoughtfully designed ecolo-chic rooms. To find out more, visit www.troplong-mondot.com

NORWAY

Travel specialist Pelorus has announced a new culinary journey through Norway in partnership with 62Nord and SKANDL. Couples will have the opportunity to explore the very best of Norway’s landscape through exciting hands-on masterclasses led by chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants, sourcing the freshest of ingredients from in and around the stunning fjord. Guests will also try their hand at Nordic fishing, foraging, and food preparation techniques, including open-flame cooking, before resting their heads at one of 62Nord’s properties. James Hagen, the founder and owner of SKANDL, comments: “The Nordics are synonymous with rugged nature, adventure, and pristine seasonal produce. The region has also given birth to what has become a culinary phenomenon with the new Nordic food movement. We hope that our guests will not only enjoy true Nordic hospitality, incredible cooking, and wild adventures, but will also have an experience that enriches their connection with food for years to come.” The itinerary can be booked from March to November 2024. To see the full list of activities, head over to www.pelorusx.com/taste-for-adventure

FRENCH ALPS, FRANCE

Hôtel Le Coucou will reopen this December with an array of enhancements. From a new French-style bistro to upgraded chalet experiences, collaborations, and special holiday events, Le Coucou promises a truly unforgettable winter getaway in the heart of the French Alps. To elevate the private chalet experience, Le Coucou will pamper guests with new beauty products and provide the opportunity to attend a master class with AIME founder Mathilde Lacombe, gaining insights into her skincare philosophy and products. There are a wide range of activities beyond skiing and snowboarding, from snowshoe hiking and snowmobile adventures to dog or pony sledding, hot-air balloon rides, paragliding, and even snow yoga. Visit www.lecoucoumeribel.com for more information.

ST LUCIA

Jade Mountain has announced a partnership with luxury suncare brand Saltee. The partnership will give guests the opportunity to try Saltee products, protect themselves from the radiant sun, and discover more about their skin’s health and what can be done to protect it in different situations. Eleanor Allum, the head of partnerships and sales at Saltee, explains: “We are thrilled to be adding to the guests’ experience at Jade Mountain by surprising and delighting them with meaningful yet relevant SPF gifts on arrival. Forged on sustainable principles and being the most ocean-friendly sun care range, the synergy between the two partners couldn’t be more aligned.” Check out www.jademountain.com and www.saltee.co.uk for more information. 87

The Italian dream

Louise Prance enjoys her inaugural visit to Italy, discovering the delights of Sardinia with a stay at the impressive Forte Village

or many, when you think ‘honeymoon’ you think white sands, clear seas, sunshine and an abundance of rest and relaxation. But, if you’re anything like me, sometimes you need a little bit more – enter Forte Village, Sardinia. A self-confessed travel addict with eternal wanderlust, I’m ashamed to say that my recent visit to Sardinia was my virgin voyage to Italy. And what an error or judgement that was. Just a hop, skip and a very short two-hour flight from the UK it was clear from touch down that Sardinia lived up to the Italian dream stereotype and then some.

on offer. For me, the focus on health and fitness was an instant draw, there are, wait for it, a whopping 11 pools, a gym, tennis club – the resort offers exciting events such as lessons with tennis legends – football pitches, boxing arena and climbing wall – which induced a severe bout of FOMO from my climbing-obsessed partner back in the UK. If that’s not enough, there’s a plethora of fitness classes available in the ‘FIT-ZONE’ including the likes of HIIT and yoga.

RESPLENDENT IN ITS BEAUTY

The focus on fun doesn’t stop at the exercise offerings, with there being something for all the family. Heading off on a Familymoon? The kids club feels like a separate resort in itself with its own swimming pool, Mario’s Village and, my personal favourite, life-sized Barbie Dreamhouse. Fancy some family activities to enjoy together? The on-site Go Karting and Bowling tick that box nicely.

Those looking for the aforementioned honeymoon vision of sun, sea and sand would be hard pushed to beat this beautiful destination. Giving off Greek island vibes, Sardinia is resplendent in its beauty, with the softest white beaches, dream-like crystal clear oceans, and an impressive history – there are Roman ruins at archaeological site Nora and a network of underground grottos some 530 million years old at the Caves of Is Zuddas, to explore. And of course, there’s the food. With Italy known for its cuisine, Sardinia didn’t disappoint, and neither did the culinary offerings at Forte Village – a resort set in a whopping 50 acres in the South of Sardinia.

FITNESS FIRST While of course exploring the island is a must-do recommendation, when you stay at Forte Village, you really won’t feel like you’ve missed out if you decide to stay put. Village by name, village by nature, the resort emulates a quintessential small Italian town, with residents getting around either by foot or on the quaint bikes provided, where the 21 restaurants (with three boasting Michelin stars) being just the beginning of what’s

A FOCUS ON FUN

HONEYMOON

own space, being just a stone’s throw from the white sandy beach and breakfast restaurant.

LOOKING FOR MORE?

Back to newlywed life, Forte Village’s spa is its shining glory. Loved by the Italian National Football Team, the Thalassotherapy Circuit was perhaps one of the most memorable spa experiences I’ve ever had. Offering six Thalasso pools, the circuit is designed to follow a pre-designed route to generate optimum health benefits. My personal favourite? Pool number one was a magnesium-heavy sea oil pool heated to a balmy 38c. Wearing an inflatable neck pillow you’re encouraged to simply float in the water, which is effortless thanks to the high salinity. I challenge anyone to leave the pool after the recommended 20 minutes feeling anything other than heavenly. The further five pools offer similar blissful experiences, which were only surpassed by the spa treatment I received after. The treatment rooms are set amongst the trees in a private tropical garden, with floor-to-ceiling (one-way) windows providing an awe-inspiring setting. My full body mud treatment left me feeling rejuvenated and relaxed, ready to take on another day in paradise.

For me, a getaway is not complete without a water-based excursion, and Sardinia offers ocean activities galore. However, always up for trying something new, I jumped at the chance to be taken out on a Jeep safari up the Monte Santo di Pula. Led by a knowledgeable guide, we bumped our way to the top of the mountain to take in some wow-factor views. We were then met by local Shephard Roberto, who did a demonstration under the forest canopy of how his family continue to make pecorino the traditional way. Coupled with some delicious red wine and authentic Italian fare, it was a memorable experience. It’s safe to say that Italy didn’t disappoint, with the Sardinian town of Cagliari being a wonderful final destination to explore. And while it may have been my first venture to the country, it certainly won’t be my last. Intoxicated by the setting, people, food and culture, Sardinia, and Forte Village, is a destination that should rank highly on your honeymoon shortlist.

DOWN TIME The endless fitness, spa, food and activity choices aren’t the only things you’ll no doubt have the pleasure of deciding upon at Forte Village, with the accommodation options as wonderfully expansive as the rest of the resort offerings. There are a selection of hotels, suites and bungalows dotted around, each with their own restaurant and pool. The decision between beach front, private garden, terrace, or balcony is where the difficulty will end, with each choice being as decadent as the next. My private garden bungalow was the perfect place to relax in my

BOOK IT! Forte Village S.S. 195 Km.39.600 (09050) Pula Cagliari, Sardegna T: +44 (0)709218818 @fortevillage

An iconic ISLAND

A honeymooners’ paradise, Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Montego Bay have it all

et yourself be carried away by the relaxed Jamaican atmosphere wherever you are; whether you’re enjoying a swim in the warm waters of the Caribbean, sipping on a piña colada in a crystal-clear pool, or on an outing exploring breathtaking mountains and blue lagoons — get ready to enter a state of absolute bliss. Together with Dominican Republic, Haiti, Puerto Rico and Cuba, Jamaica is one of the five countries that form the Greater Antilles archipelago in the Caribbean Sea. An island overflowing with colour and energy, this unique and diverse country has a pace and power, a passion and beauty that make it an unforgettable honeymoon destination. Along with its many natural wonders, the heart of Jamaica is its people and when visiting this ultra-hospitable country, you’ll encounter friendly, joyful faces and a vibrant energy familiar across the planet.

DON’T WORRY, BE HAPPY YOU’RE IN PARADISE Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts presents itself in Lucea Montego Bay, on the northwest coast of the country, with a 9.5-hectare resort comprising Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa. The Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa is a refined five-star hotel with access to four dream beaches, as well as a large wellness area and several family and adult-only pools. It boasts eight extraordinary à la carte restaurants complementing the wide range of bars in the lively area in which it’s located.

Across the other side of the resort is the Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa; located on a stunning Jamaican beach, positioned between two of the island’s most popular cities just a few minutes from the hotel. Its exceptional five-star service and beautiful tropical environment make it perfect for a Caribbean vacation. Both hotels comprise a total of 1,054 rooms of varying categories and with different features from Superior Junior Suites with private pools and ocean views to Junior Suites with garden views; and, for the ultimate accommodation perfect for honeymooners, the adults-only Romance Villas overlook the tropical surroundings with views of the ocean and boast king size bed, hydromassage tub, private entrance, walk-in closet, and furnished balcony with outdoor shower.

MUCH-NEEDED YOU TIME For the ultimate in post-wedding relaxation, the resort offers the luxurious Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness centre. Couples can relax to the sound of reggae on its comfy Balinese beds or try its hydrotherapy area with steam bath, hot and cold water hydromassage tubs, dry sauna, Turkish bath, foot bath, water slides, swimming pool, and relaxation area. While you’re there, you can also indulge in exclusive spa treatments, massages and beauty treatments in the salon. Should you want a work out on your honeymoon – no judgement here – the resort’s gym boasts modern, extensive facilities, locker rooms, and one of the largest swimming pools in the Caribbean. When dining at the resort, guests can choose from 11 restaurants and 90

HONEYMOONS

15 themed bars including swim-up and beach bars. Awaken your taste buds with gourmet cuisine or explore world flavours with its specialist Japanse offering; perhaps steak is your go-to so check out El Dorado steak house or keep it local with Jamaican restaurant Xaymaica. For entertainment, guests can enjoy various options for all ages: relax in four swimming pools including a special pool for children, there’s direct access to the beach with water sports and activities on offer, and there are countless excursions to the main tourist attractions. The hotels boast programs filled with activities and games for the entire family; with the help of professionals POP Entertainment the little ones will be in safe hands; there are live shows during the day and at night, including the participation of the Pop Gang, which is sure to surprise young guests.

SEE & DO CHUKKA ADVENTURES Saddle up and get acquainted with your new hoofed friend for a unique and unforgettable horse-riding adventure. Or ride up mountain terrain with spectacular ocean vistas on an ATV. Journey through Jamaica’s back-country and pass through farmlands. At the seashore, try swimming on horseback, then power snorkel on an exciting catamaran cruise where undersea creatures will greet you with a glowing bright smile. Locations in Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, and Falmouth.

DOLPHIN COVE Dolphin Cove is Jamaica’s number one attraction, offering fun for all ages. Dolphins, sharks, stingrays, glass-bottom boats, pirates, and parrots are just some of the many things you can see and experience here. It has two locations in Jamaica – Ocho Rios and Montego Bay – where you can watch and interact with dolphins and many other beautiful animals. RAFTING ON THE MARTHA BRAE Board one of the bamboo rafts at Rafting on the Martha Brae and gently float down a five-kilometer (three-mile) calm stretch of river just a few miles inland from the historic town of Falmouth. The trip lasts just over an hour and each raft accommodates two adults and up to two small children, with passengers sitting on a throne adorned with colorful flowers. The experience has attracted a number of famous figures over the years, including Queen Elizabeth II, Spike Lee, Kenny Rodgers, Johnny Cash, and Usain Bolt.

IN THE KNOW 1. Jerk meat is a delicious Jamaican national dish with Spanish influences. 2. The photogenic, azure-colored Blue Hole natural swimming pool is fed by beautiful waterfalls. 3. Rick’s Cafe is one of the most vibrant spots to enjoy the sunset on the island. 4. You’ll feel like you’ve arrived in paradise when you lay eyes on the beautiful beach at Frenchman’s Cove. 5. If you like reggae music, you can’t miss Kingston Dub Club on Sundays. CONTACT Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa +876 619 0000 Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa +876 619 0000 www.palladiumhotelgroup.com/en 91

Rachel Westall experiences the stylish Retreat at Elcot Park - country-house comfort at its best

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wine list will ensure you’re well refreshed. As I visited on a Sunday, Yu, the Retreat’s pan-Asian restaurant wasn’t open, but I’ll definitely be back to experience the Japanese fine dining establishment with a reputation not to be ignored! I finished my stay with a full body ‘Made for You’ massage at the Signet Spa. My therapist was able to locate and relax my pressure points leaving me recharged and well cared for. Utter bliss.

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tep into luxury at The Retreat, Elcot Park. Since its grand opening in June 2022 it has won many accolades including Britain’s Best Hotel by The Times and the Sunday Times, topping their list of the Top 100 Places to Stay in the UK. So, it was only right for us to check it out for our couples. Located between Newbury and Hungerford, this 18th-century country house hotel & spa is the perfect spot to unwind pre- or post-wedding whether you want a cocktail aside the heated outdoor swimming pool; or are ready to don your hiking boots and clear your mind on the close-by North Wessex Downs. You’re so warmly welcomed as soon as you enter the lobby lounge. Waiting at the reception desk was a lovely couple sipping a glass of wine checking in – yes you get a glass of the good stuff on arrival - and who was at their feet but two four-legged friends. Living the life of Riley, these pampered pooches were also looking forward to their stay in one of the several dog-friendly rooms. They even get a doggie welcome pack on arrival! With a crisp rosé in hand, I check into the Sutton Suite. An interior designer’s dream, sunlight pours into the room which overlooks the surrounding countryside. It’s warm and inviting with whimsy wallpaper, mix-match plush textiles and the prime centrepiece, the stunning copper roll top bath, is just waiting to be enjoyed. With a private mini bar, as well as raiding rights to the pantry (yes, there’s a pantry where you can help yourselves to snacks and drinks!), you’re guaranteed to switch off, unwind and feel truly spoilt. When it comes to food and drink, 1772 Brasserie offers a fine choice of contemporary dishes for all tastes. I chose crispy chilli squid followed by Berkshire lamb rump, cooked to perfection. The impressive cocktail and

BOOK IT! The Retreat at Elcot Park, Newbury, West Berkshire, RG20 8NJ www.retreatelcotpark.com 01635 800 520 reservations@retreatelcotpark.com

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WHAT A TREAT!

COMPETITION

WIN

A MINIMOON TO RHODES WORTH £1,700

estled just a short-haul flight away from London, Lindos Grand Resort & Spa offers couples an enchanting haven near the captivating Lindos old town, away from daily life’s hustle and bustle. With 189 elegant rooms, including options for private swim-up infinity pools and sweeping sea views, this remarkable resort sets the stage for a luxurious and romantic getaway. Situated at the foot of the majestic Acropolis, Lindos beautifully blends traditional charm with modern allure. Winding lanes, whitewashed houses, Byzantine churches, and charming donkey rides create an enchanting backdrop for an unforgettable escape. At Lindos Grand Resort & Spa, relaxation and rejuvenation are paramount. The Evridiki spa pampers couples with rejuvenating treatments, while yoga sessions promote inner balance. The inviting pool area provides a serene oasis, and as the sun sets, couples can savour expertly crafted cocktails at the Blanc de Blancs Lounge or unwind in the laid-back elegance of the Atmos Sky Lounge. Culinary delights await with a diverse range of fine-dining experiences. From Mediterranean cuisine at Thalatta Fine Dining Restaurant to island-inspired dishes at Agistri Greek Fish Restaurant, each meal is a celebration of flavours. Italian cuisine lovers will find satisfaction

at La Cucina, offering homemade pastas and thin-crust pizzas, while those seeking an exotic adventure can explore Takara Asian Restaurant or Yume Mou for Asian and Japanese delights. Win the Ultimate Romantic Getaway! Lindos Grand Resort & Spa invites couples to embark on an extraordinary romantic experience. The prize includes: •A three-night stay in a Deluxe Junior Suite Sea View on a half-board basis •Enriched Buffet Breakfast & Dinner at the Main Restaurant •A welcome drink upon arrival •Welcome amenities in your room •Complimentary Spa access •Complimentary Wi-Fi access in all rooms and public areas Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to create lasting memories in a truly romantic setting. Enter now for a chance to win this unforgettable experience at Lindos Grand Resort & Spa! Enter via our website www.yourwestmidlands.wedding. Terms and Conditions apply. Competition closing date. 31st January 2024.

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