Spring/Summer 2013 FREE www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
LOCAL VENUES BRIDAL FASHION REAL WEDDINGS VENUE DECOR STATIONERY FLOWERS CAKES + MUCH MORE
POPPY
BRIDAL SPECIALIST
s are made m a e r d e r e h W
18 Duke Street, Darlington, Co. Durham DL3 7AA Telephone 01325 487372 Email info@poppybridal.co.uk www.poppybridal.co.uk Ian Stuart • Amanda Wakeley • Jenny Packham • Maggie Sottero • Pronovias • Enzoani facebook.com/poppybridal
twitter.com/#!/BridesatPoppy
pinterest.com/poppybridal
feature
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
feature
be CHIC.
Our philosophy is simple.
Whatever we need to do to make you feel incredibly fabulously hopelessly wonderfully fantastically in love with your wedding day hair, we will. Working with you from the very beginning of the arrangements, and importantly, with your dress designer to maximise the complete ‘look’, we can then make prewedding trials, with preparations and treatments leading up to delivering your hair in the very best condition to look and feel sensational. Exclusive 'in-salon' services are available on the day and will be tailored to provide all your requirements. INTRODUCING THE BE PREMIÈRE HAIR ‘RETINUE’ SERVICE.™
Your own BE PREMIÈRE HAIR Wedding co-ordinator understands chapter and verse exactly how important attention to detail in pre-wedding preparations really are. This is one chic RED CARPET day you'll never forget.
HAIR
PREMIÈRE
RED CARPET. CATWALK. YOU. 29 Blackwellgate, Darlington DL1 5HG
T: 01325 48 33 33 enquiries@bepremierehair.co.uk www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
www.bepremierehair.co.uk
BE PREMIÈRE HAIR™ IS A TRADE MARK OF BE PREMIÈRE LIMITED ©2013
This is extreme luxury. Providing personal attendants at your home or hotel throughout the day, evening or whole weekend if you desire, this can include not only the Bride, but her formal attendants and family as well as services for The Groom.
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Darlington Weddings
CONTENTS 8 17 24
Get the Cover Look Recerate the style of our front covers!
Fashion & Style En Vogue is set to have a stellar 2013.
27 Spring & Summer Julia Braime from Brides Up North gives us her
Spring/Summer trends for 2013.
30 A Fusion of Style We catch up with world class designer, Ian Stuart to discuss
definitely want in your little black wedding book!
be. Find out more about one of the best in the business, Stan Seaton Photography.
from Ian Stuart, Enzoani and Jenny Packham.
48 Private & Confidential A bridal boudoir shoot is the perfect gift for your husband to
In the Limelight DW chats to the two Sarah’s from Limelight Photo Booth Hire to find out how they’ve found the last 12 months.
36 Mirror, Mirror On the wall... Our gorgeous feature shoot featuring gowns
Jacobean Decadence Redworth Hall Hotel the perfect 18th century wedding venue.
112 Party Planners to the Stars We catch up with Hilary Dunne from Wildchilds, a lady you
his 2013 collection.
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a hassle free ‘I do’?
106 108
123 125 133 136 143
Page 1
102 2013? Lucky for Some... How can Bannatyne Hotel make 2013 the year that you say
The North East’s best kept dress design secret, Phil Woodhead
6 Page 13
The Secret Diary of a Boothologist Boothalicious celebrate their first 9 months in business!
Cakes Flowers Stationery Getting Married Abroad Make Up By Jo returns with brilliant tips for brides planning a destination wedding.
53 Real Weddings Real brides tell us how they did it and give you the info you
153 Top Men’s Wedding Beauty Products Maxine Weems, from Body Shop, Darlington, gives us the top
need to steal their style!
74 Calling All Fashionistas Fyzal, from Fyal Photogaphy, talks to us about pre and post
men’s wedding products.
wedding shoots.
83 92
A Breath of Fresh Air
155 156
DW speaks to GASP, Darlington’s funkiest photographers!
Enjoy a Royal Wedding Auckland Castle is undergoing a huge refurbishment and
161 Competitions Win everything from your wedding cake to venue decor, with
opening to brides in 2013.
98 Fit for a King The Mercure Kings Head re-opens after fire devastated
Camping it Up We Ditch the limo and make a statement with Lovedubcars!
Get Me to the Church On Time We speak to Neal, owener of Classic Wedding Cars, about his fleet of vintage vehicles.
our competition prizes totalling over £1300!
162 Wedding Fayres This season’s must visit events.
the building 4 years ago.
Page 36 Page 92
Page 53
Page 30
Page
83
7
Get the
COVER LOOK
ANNA Dress: Blue by Enzoani "Elkedra" Headdress: Jenny Packham "Valentine Comb" Earrings: Jenny Packham "Tesoro I"
Kate Moss Lasting Finish Matt lipstick in 101
KATHERINE Dress: Enzoani "Dakota" in Gunmetal Necklace: Jenny Packham "Cadeaux" Ring: Peter Lang
Daniel Sandler Velvet Waterproof eyeliner in Black Ariane Poole Superwear Gel Eyeliner in Sienna
The Team
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Estee Lauder Double Wear Light in 03
Dresses & Accessories: Poppy Bridal www.poppybridal.co.uk Photography: Stan Seaton Photography www.stanseatonphotography.co.uk Stylist: Peta Clarke Make-up: Make Up by Jo www.makeupbyjo.co.uk Hair: Contemporary Hair Darlington www.contemporarysalons.co.uk Flowers: Eliza Blooms www.elizablooms.co.uk Venue: Middleton Lodge www.middletonlodge.co.uk Models: Anna Miller & Katherine Lees
editor’s letter
EDITOR’S LETTER It has been a whirlwind 6 months… With the launch of the ‘new-look’ Darlington Weddings Magazine in September 2012, the introduction of new wedding fayre venues to our yearly programme and welcoming new members of our team to the fold, 2013 is shaping up to be a cracking year at DW headquarters! .
Editor
And so, Issue 4’s arrival, after much hard work and dedication, comes with a promise to provoke, motivate and inspire your big day plans. We present to you 5 real weddings from the region with couples who have recently tied the knot, and we’ve also scoured the area for new trends breaking their way through for 2013/14. Julia Braime from Brides Up North returns to give us her Spring & Summer celebration tips and we speak with 2 local venues that will be re-opening their doors to brides after large refurbishments.
jade@darlingtonweddings.co.uk
Also, check out our amazing photo shoot from the fabulous Middleton Lodge on page 36, styled by Peta Clarke and expertly captured by Stan Seaton. The shoot features classic and controversial dresses from designers like Enzoani, Jenny Packham, and one of my personal favourites, Ian Stuart! Speaking of Ian Stuart, we have an interview with the man himself on page 30.
contact@damiankidd.co.uk
Our ‘DW’ weddings fayres launch this spring season on the 17th February at Redworth Hall Hotel, followed by Bannatyne Hotel on February 24th and finally, Hall Garth Hotel on March 3rd. Make sure you pre-register for your goodie bag at www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk and we look forward to seeing you there!
Jo Leversuch, Make-up By Jo
Victoria Rowland victoria@darlingtonweddings.co.uk Feature Writers / Editorial Jade Turnbull Jaime Hume info@darlingtonweddings.co.uk Linda Britton linda@lakeywells.co.uk Design Damian Kidd www.damiankidd.co.uk
Sales, Editorial & Social Media Karen Everson karen@darlingtonweddings.co.uk Contributors Julia Braime, Brides Up North Maxine Weems, Body Shop Peta Clarke, Poppy Bridal Jane Miller, Stan Seaton Photography Sarah Brogden, Clarins
Vicky
Published by Craig Maddison craig@darlingtonweddings.co.uk
Editor victoria@darlingtonweddings.co.uk
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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7 Page
Darlington Weddings is a free magazine that is available to provide inspiration to Brides-tobe in and around Darlington. Please note that the views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure that the content of this magazine is correct, however, we cannot be held responsible for any mistakes or errors it may contain.
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BRAMWELLS Jewellers of Distinction Since 1867
23 Post House Wynd
28 High Street
Darlington, DL3 7LP Tel: 01325 464 175
Durham, DK1 3UJ Tel: 0191 384 5793
Official Stockist
LONDON
www.bramwellsjewellers.co.uk
Choosing your wedding rings is not a decision to be taken lightly... We at Bramwells have been helping couples to choose the perfect rings for over a century. Visit us soon to browse our wide range of fine jewellery.
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news
N
Becky Mitchell Photography
Rudby Hall
orth Yorkshire has recently welcomed Rudby Hall as it's newest exclusive luxury wedding venue and country house hotel. Located on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, formerly a private residence and also a royal residence, Rudby Hall will be available for bookings from 2014 onwards. The venue features individually designed suites and a bespoke service, which includes personalised menus to suit your tastes. Furthermore, the venue promises that "everything will be taken care of so that you can relax and enjoy your special day as you celebrate with your guests at this luxurious venue of distinction".
To find out more contact Wendy on 01642 701839, or visit www.rudbyhall.com
NEW COMPANY HOLDS THE KEY TO YOUR SUCCESSFUL EVENT
I
ntroducing Truly Madly Heavenly Events, a brand new Darlington based events management company established by Karen Walker from Definition Event Solutions and Mandy Welland-Taylor from Bonbonniere and Wells. They have joined together to specialise in the planning and management of themed events. They plan to hold their first 'Wedding Exchange' at Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel, Sunday 3rd March 2013, 11am-4pm. www.trulymadlyheavenly.co.uk 13
news
NEW EVENT LOCATION FOR DW Following on from successful events in 2012, Darlington Weddings is partnering with another local venue, Walworth Castle, to host their Autumn Wedding fayre this year. Walworth Castle is a 16th century mansion house set in 18 acres of lawns and woodland, with 32 individually themed bedrooms including 4 posters and 4 poster suites, some of which incorporate double jacuzzi baths. The Walworth Castle wedding fayre will take place on Sunday October 6th. Check www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk for future updates about this and other events. Darlington Weddings will also return to Redworth Hall to host their Autumn wedding fayre on September 22nd and Bannatyne Hotel on October 13th. Contact Vicky for more info victoria@darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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QWEST
Q
west arrived on the wedding scene exactly one year ago with an idea to transform the North East wedding industry. Qwest assesses wedding industry professionals on business practice. If a business meets the set Qwest standard and passes the examination they become Qwest approved. Approved certified businesses can be found on the Qwest website which couples planning their big day can access for free. In the past twelve months Qwest founders Claire and Louise have worked tirelessly to monitor and maintain consistent high standards within the wedding industry, whilst always striving for perfection through improvement and development. To take full advantage of Qwest’s free services and to find out more about the benefits of being Qwest approved visit www.qwestuk.co.uk or get in touch at info@qwestuk.co.uk
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
coming soon to iPad
Coming soon to the iPad and other devices. From Spring 2013 you will be able to download the latest issues of DW magazine, and enjoy a full interactive reading experience for free.
WWW.DARLINGTONWEDDINGS.CO.UK 15
Ava Rose Hamilton BRIDAL COUTURE | DURHAM CITY
With over 20 years of experience in bridal couture, award winning Ava Rose Hamilton are renowned for their selection of beautiful gowns and excellent service. ENZOANI | ELLIS BRIDALS | BENJAMIN ROBERTS | BLUE BY ENZOANI | ANOUSHKA G
www.avarosehamilton.co.uk 23 Elvet Bridge | Durham City | County Durham | DH1 3AA | tel: 0191 383 11 88
FASHION & STYLE
Ava Rose Hamilton, an award winning bridal boutique based in Durham, is hosting a number of designer weekends throughout 2013. Book an appointment for one of the dates below to see the brand new 2014 collections from each designer and pick up some exclusive discounts whilst you're there! Enzoani Designer Weekend - 16th & 17th Mar | Blue by Enzoani Designer Weekend - 8th & 9th Jun Ellis Bridals Designer Weekend - 3rd & 4th Aug | Benjamin Roberts Designer Weekend - 12th & 13th Oct
Contact the boutique on 0191 383 11 88 for more info.
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style
Illusion necklines www.poppybridal.co.uk
Typical English Bespoke Bridal Inspiration Book www.facebook.com/TypicallyEnglish
Jenny Packham ‘Blaire’ www.poppybridal.co.uk
Essie nail polish ‘Allure’ www.essie.com
Maggie Sottero Dress ‘Windsor’ www.poppybridal.co.uk
Cotton & Crumbs Rose Cake www.cottonandcrumbs.co.uk
Harriet Wilde shoes www.harrietwilde.com
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l o r t n o C c i s s a l C For perfectly classic inspiration try soft colour ways that tone well together; the idea of “less is more” on table and room decorations and keep beautiful simple lines in your choice of wedding dress design. The Ballgown silhouette and fishtails are key looks to watch out for this season and sheer illusion necklines are the perfect way to achieve demure appearance for that special day. By Peta Clarke
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
queen
Unconventional
Jenny Packham statement necklace www.jennypackham.com
Take a walk on the wild side... If you want to be more daring this season then never fear to try “something a little bit different”. Tear yourself away from the much loved French manicure with deep coloured nails, don’t be afraid to go for darker eyes and nude lips. And for the very brave, how about ruffles and luxurious textures on a coloured wedding dress? By Peta Clarke
Enzoani dresses www.poppybridal.co.uk
Ian Stewart ‘Bombshell’ www.poppybridal.co.uk
Nude Louboutins www.net-a-porter.com
Snapshots for guest and keepsakes; ‘Polaroid z340 Instant Digital Camera’ www.polaroid.co.uk
Online inspiration boards that can be seen by friends www.pinterest.com
style
bridesmaids
Accessorize Bloom Wow Collar Monsoon Accessorize
Paris Side Tiara By Gina
Children play an important role in most of today’s wedding ceremonies. Style your little bridesmaids pretty with these ivory and pastel gowns, with a touch of sparkle to make them feel extra special on the big day! By Vicky Rowland
Bow of Elegance Brooch Glitzy Secrets
Paul Costelloe Embroidered Lace Dress Dunnes Stores
Dress ‘Dessy’ www.dessy.com
Headwear What Katy Did Next
Hair Comb Glitzy Secrets Paul Costelloe Beaded Flower Bag Dunnes Stores
Sparkling Crystal Bangles What’s About Town Headwear What Katy Did Next
Daisy Perfume Marc Jacobs Angel Bracelet By Gina Accessorize Scatter Crystal Clutch Monsoon Accessorize
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www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
feature sweetheart strapless dress with a lace jacket included (8641) Designer: Justin Alexander P.O.A
Miranda Marie Bridal Boutique Tel: 01642 913551 www.mirandamarie.com
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www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
Ava Rose Hamilton Bridal Couture Tel: 0191 383 11 88 www.avarosehamilton.co.uk
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www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
en
feature
VOGUE
The North East’s fashion industry’s best kept design secret is about to go stellar as Phil Woodhead launches his new label. He talks exclusively to DW and tells us why making wedding dresses will always be his first love..... Words - Linda Britton Photography - David Hill Photography
L
ocal fashion cognoscenti can spot a Phil Woodhead design at 50 paces. Think glamour, think style, think beautifully cut, Phil has been the wedding dress designer of choice for those in the know for the last few years. But although the design and tailoring may be couture, the price tag is definitely high street. This is a designer who is driven by his desire to make women look beautiful, not making loads of money. However, that may soon be about to change. Move over Giles Deacon, there’s a new North East name making waves in fashion circles. Even though Phil has only just started his own fashion label Buckley, he is already being courted by some national retail names and other designers for potential collaboration and is working on his day wear collection which will be Victoria Beckham meets Chanel with the chutzpah of Vivienne Westwood. However, it’s the wedding dresses that are the main love of Phil’s life. Gorgeous, bespoke, handmade
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
creations that make every bride a princess. Meeting Phil in person at his Middlesbrough studio, he is warm and friendly and immediately puts you at your ease. With a ready laugh and a sincere wish to please, it’s clear why so many brides rave about him. With a Vogue Magazine collection to rival Anna Wintour’s, his knowledge and passion for the history of fashion design informs all of his work. The key, he says, to creating a fabulous dress, is to get to know the bride and really understand her personality. “The consultation, in many ways, is the most important element,” he explains. “We talk ideas, design, body shape, fabric and then I do some sketches. Often brides start talking to me about their dress a year in advance so we have plenty of time to really create something special for her.” This year is likely to be a busy year for Mr Woodhead. So if you want a top designer making your dress he’s your man, but you might be best advised to snap him up while you can. 25
brides UP NORTH
brides up north
SPRING & SUMMER
CELEBRATIONS
Julia Braime, editor of www.bridesupnorth.co.uk explains why, despite our dodgy weather, a Spring or Summer celebration is still on her style forecast for 2013.
Katy Lunsford Photography
Grand Wedding Exhibition Join Brides Up North for their double whammy of Grand Wedding Exhibitions this season at Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield on Sunday 24th February 2013, 12pm – 4pm and at Ramside Hall Hotel, Durham on Sunday 17th March 2013, 12pm – 4pm. The events are both FREE ENTRY, with two professional fashion shows. With 80 – 100 exhibitors at each, these are the largest and most exciting free events in the North East. Visit www.bridesupnorth. co.uk to pre-register for your VIP Bride To Be goody bag and speedy entry.
brides up north
Sarah Gawler Photography
I
t used to be the case that every weekend during the months of May, June and July played host to a Saturday wedding, but in recent years the Summer wedding has become less of a must have on bridal wish lists. It could be the fact that a proper English Summer is about as guaranteed as a lottery win, or that savvy spenders are responding to lower prices in what was traditionally the off-season, but more and more couples are choosing to say I do in the Autumn and Winter months instead. It could be that they are on to something - after all, didn’t we see a scorching March and a clear skied November last year? However, I would urge you not to write off a Spring or Summer celebration just yet. A Summer wedding offers so many pretty styling options, and even if the weather is a little unreliable, your wedding really needn’t be a wash out!
Katy Lunsford Photography Damian Hall Photography
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www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
brides up north
Summer Styling
Background Image - Greyeye Photography
Lighter skies and longer days can carry off a real variety of colour palettes and prints, from the bright and vibrant shades of India to the palest pastel pinks and blues of an English country garden. Choose your favourite colour combinations and use these as the basis of your overall look. I love the elegant emerald greens that look set to be a trend for 2013: think a tented lawn in the shadow of a stately home on a balmy day, very “Keira Knightly in Atonement”, and you’re on the right lines.
Stephanie Oakes Photography
Get Fresh You’ll be happy to find most of your favourite blooms in season during the Summer months so if flowers are your thing, there’s no better time to make a statement. There is nothing more vibrant and significant of new beginnings than a freshly cut bunch of yellow daffodils or if you fancy something more exotic, try exotic cherry blossoms in long vases. Later in the year use beautiful blousy peonies to add romance.
Bring The Outside In
Plan B No matter how many times you check the forecast, no one knows exactly how British Summertime is going to go, so I’d advise against a totally weather dependent celebration. Contingency is key. If you plan to be outdoors, have some easily erectable gazebos on standby. Colour coordinated umbrellas also make for some great photographs – look on the sunny side!
i
Damian Hall Photography
When choosing a venue for your Spring or Summer wedding, consider lighting carefully. No one wants to leave a sunny drinks reception on the lawn to dine in a dark and heavy panelled ballroom. Look for venues with floor to ceiling windows, large conservatory spaces or pale and cooling decorating schemes. You might even consider sitting down under canvas instead – today’s marquees and tepee options are designed to cope with all weathers.
Brides Up North is one of the top bridal blogs in the UK and the only wedding blog especially for brides in the North. Visit www.bridesupnorth.co.uk for a double daily dose of real and celebrity weddings, bridal fashion features, supplier showcases, giveaways, discounts and more!
A FUSION
OF STYLE
Ian Stuart ‘Florina’
interview
W
ith a career in the bridalwear industry spanning over a decade, Ian Stuart has garnered an enviable reputation in bridal couture for his diversity in styles, shapes and colours, while never losing that all-important display of sheer luxury in his designs. Since launching his brand in London, Ian Stuart has been awarded UK Bridal Designer of the Year an incredible five times, and has attracted worldwide attention for his daring, dramatic pieces. From theatrical and intricate full length gowns, to short and sweet prom-style frocks, Ian truly offers something for every bride, as his ever expanding collection continues to showcase his innovative approach to bridal design. Following a recent inspirational trip to Brussels, Ian reflected the rippled, fondant textures displayed by couture chocolatiers in his draped fabrics, incorporating a sugary, pastel colour palette. Here, he talks to Darlington Weddings about his 2013 collection, where a range of eras from the classic Edwardian and Jacobean to the iconic 50’s and 60’s, are depicted and adapted for the modern bride.
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interview Where do you draw your main inspiration from? I have always been inspired by couture designers such as Christian Dior, Givenchy and Oscar De La Renta. I am also inspired by music, people and travel. How quickly do styles change? Is there a distinct new look each season, as with the high street, or do bridal styles evolve differently? We introduce new looks each season, picking up on trends and colours that have been popular in high fashion, however, bridal fashion also takes inspiration from history as well as looking to the future. Is there an iconic wedding dress that you wish you had designed? I loved the 1960s dress worn by Priscilla when she married Elvis. It’s so "Vegas" and fun! What can we expect from the Ian Stuart 2013 collection? Do you have a favourite piece? My latest collection is a fusion of my two greatest passions: innovative design and historical influence. I have strived to create a collection that is distinctive, cutting edge and unmistakably Ian Stuart. I have studied the finer details of costume and reinterpreted them in a modern way. Inspired by methods of great couturiers past and present, I've spent time exploring inventive pattern cutting, creating stunning shapes and silhouettes that will excite the next generation of fashion conscious brides. The new Supernova collection includes pieces which are based on various periods in time and I have designed dresses that can be worn at a range of wedding venues, from the intimacy of a sun kissed beach 32
to the drama of a country castle. My favorite dress in the collection is called Florina. It is made in blush silk satin, with an asymmetric pleated bodice and covered with hand made roses. This dress epitomizes the Ian Stuart style. What advice would you give to women who are trying on bridalwear for the first time? I would advise any bride to make a scrap book of the styles she likes, and then try on styles of each shape, ball-gown, fishtail, and A-line. This way you can start to eliminate the shapes that don't work for you and concentrate on trying on more in the shapes that do. Don't take too many people with you to try on dresses, as too many opinions will only make you confused. What is your own idea of the perfect wedding day? Planning is everything. As long as there is a planned schedule of events, it will go smoothly. Make sure you set aside little moments during the day, so you can catch your breath, enjoy and savour the moment! Finally, you've won many awards, including Outstanding Contribution to the Industry and UK Bridal Designer of the Year, but what is your proudest achievement to date? My proudest achievement to date was actually setting up the business and creating my own independent collection. It was a very scary time and for any designer who launches a collection, there are going to be hurdles and bumps along the way. I have always tried to stick to our handwriting and make sure that our look has its own identity. Next year is our 10th anniversary and we are looking forward to the next 10 years!
“MY LATEST COLLECTION IS A FUSION OF MY TWO GREATEST PASSIONS, INNOVATIVE DESIGN, AND HISTORICAL INFLUENCE”
Ian Stuart ‘Monsoon’
H
ave you ever asked yourself what type of Bride you want to be? Are you perfectly Classic, and favour the more traditional simplicity in structure and style or are you more Unconventional, pushing the boundaries and testing the limits? There is a focus on colours this season where soft blush tones and compelling ivories contrast fiercely with the daring black, adding drama and elegance to every silhouette. Ian Stuart, Jenny Packham and Enzoani have allured us with their latest Bridal Collections, where beautiful feminine lines and softly contoured layers create a second skin in a world where nothing is as it seems.
Concept & Styling: Peta Clarke lostalice@hotmail.co.uk Dresses & Accessories: Poppy Bridal www.poppybridal.co.uk Photography: Stan Seaton Photography www.stanseatonphotography.co.uk Make-up: Make Up by Jo www.makeupbyjo.co.uk Hair: Contemporary Hair Darlington www.contemporarysalons.co.uk Flowers: Eliza Blooms www.elizablooms.co.uk Venue: Middleton Lodge www.middletonlodge.co.uk
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Models: Anna Miller & Katherine Lees
Katherine Dress: Enzoani "Dakota" Headdress: Jenny Packham "Stellina II" in Gunmetal Ring: Peter Lang Anna Dressing gown: models own Headdress: Jenny Packham "Jewel IV" Earrings: Jenny Packham "Atara II" Mannequin 1 Dress: Ian Stuart "Serenade" Mannequin 2 Dress: Ian Stuart "South Pacific" Mannequin 3 Dress: Ian Stuart "Florina"
MIRROR MIRROR... ...ON THE WALL, WHO IS THE FAIREST OF THEM ALL?
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Left Dress: Enzoani "Dakota" in Gunmetal Headdress: Jenny Packham Ring: Peter Lang Mannequins Dresses: Ian Stuart
Left Dress: Ian Stuart "Tivoli" Headdress: Jenny Packham "Jewel IV" Veil: Richard Designs
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Right Necklace: Peter Lang Ring: Peter Lang
Left Dress: Blue by Enzoani “Elkedra” Headdress: Jenny Packham “Valentine Comb” Earrings: Jenny Packham “Tesoro I” Right Necklace: Jenny Packham "Cadeaux" in Rose gold/Jet Ring: Peter Lang
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Left Dress: Ian Stuart “Flowerbomb” Veil: Richard Designs Right Dress: Jenny Packham "Silverbell" Earrings: Jenny Packham "Lula I"
Left Dress: Ian Stuart “Glitterati” Necklace: Jenny Packham “Cadeaux” in Antique Shoes: Harriet Wilde “Marina closed Sakura” Right Dress: Jenny Packham "Ruby" Earrings: Jenny Packham "Lula I"
Left Dress: Jenny Packham “Mimosa” Earrings: Jenny Packham “ Tesoro I” Right Dress: Jenny Packham "Muscari"
45
Left Dress: Enzoani “Gali” Necklace: Jenny Packham “Acacia” in Noir Dress on floor: Ian Stuart “Frangellico” Right Dress: Jenny Packham "Esme" Headdress: Jenny Packham "Stellina IV" in Gunmetal Shoes: Harriet Wilde "Gardenia"
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SENSUAL & FEMININE
TO PRIVATE
& CONFIDENTIAL WEDDING BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY
Want to get that extra something special for your groom? The latest trend to hit these shores is the bridal boudoirshoot and no one does it with as much style as iconic fashion and bridal photographers Stan Seaton Photography.
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n terms of sophisticated glamour, their images are truly breathtaking and works of art in their own right. Think Marilyn Monroe or Dita Von Teese and you looking and feeling the most fabulous you have ever looked in your life. The photo shoot itself is held in a luxe, boutique hotel with professional hair and make up artists on hand to make you look like the goddess you are and plenty of props to have fun with and accessorise your photos. Lunch and a glass of bubbly is on the menu as well and brides to be can bring a friend to enjoy the day with them. Jane and Stan, the team behind Stan Seaton Photography, believe the key to the most fabulous, flattering photos is to put brides at ease. “We love doing wedding bridal boudoirs as they’re always a lot of fun and we get a lot of enjoyment from seeing the brides get a chance to relax and be pampered and really focus on themselves for once,” says Jane. “All of our ladies go away feeling better about themselves and feeling more confident which is lovely to see and when they see the photos they are blown away by how beautiful they look.”
For more information take a look at some of Stan Seaton’s boudoir images at www.visualsecrets.co.uk or give Jane a call on 01325 382 555.
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www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
QUARTER PAGE 68 X 99 mm (no bleed needed)
HALF PAGE 140 X 99 mm
(no bleed needed)
VINTAGE WEDDING POSTBOX
This beautiful, handmade fibreglass replica of a 1940s post box is the perfect place to keep all your gift cards and vouchers safe while you and your guests enjoy your special day.
WEDDINGPOSTBOX.NET
REAL WEDDINGS
ALEXANDRA &TIM 26 May 2012 th
Stan Seaton Photography
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THE PROPOSAL We met across a crowded kitchen at the London PR agency for whom we both worked in 2008. We were together for three years before Tim proposed, whilst staying in a holiday cottage in the Alsace region of France. On the third day of the holiday (a Monday), the plan was to propose at the end of a nice meal outside, watching the sun go down over the valley below. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a bank holiday and every shop was closed, so instead of the sumptuous banquet I’d envisaged we ended up with scrambled egg on toast. I more or less decided to postpone for another day, but we followed up dinner with a bottle of something fizzy and a short (ok, long) soak in the hot tub that came with the cottage. I realised that the chance had presented itself, so I snuck upstairs, hid the ring in a towel and popped the question, right there in the hot tub. THE DRESS Choosing the dress was very easy. I wanted something that was classic, modest and original. When I went to see Helena at Heavenly Vintage Brides she was so lovely and gave us all a cup of tea and could tell us so much about every dress she had. It felt so personal and it was just right to go with her advice, rather than a brand/ name in a boutique shop. THE CEREMONY We were very lucky to marry at Brinkburn Priory. It is a magnificent, secluded venue which I visited quite a lot from a young age. It’s down a narrow track, next to the river and hidden by the trees. We had wonderful weather which just added to the venue’s impact. 54
THE DETAILS. Date: 26th May 2012 Ceremony: Brinkburn Priory, Longframlington, Northumberland Reception: Marquee wedding, Alnmouth Dress: Vintage 1940s, Heavenly Vintage Brides Suits: Morning suit - Cad & the Dandy, London, Waistcoat - Michael George, Huddersfield Photographer: Stan Seaton Photography Cake supplier: Fruit cake, Mother of the Bride Florist: Bels flowers, Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hair/Makeup stylists: Jo Stringer, Bracknell Cars: Northumberland Wedding Cars
THE RECEPTION We wanted to have a very down to earth and relaxed wedding reception, so having a simple marquee where we could add our own flourishes to the reception was essential. We had a marquee venue overlooking the estuary in Alnmouth. In the evening the sea fret came in and it was just breathtaking. We are lucky to have very kind and talented friends and family. We made our own Save The Date cards. Al’s Mum made the cake. Our friend Annahita made our Order of Service. Tim’s brother did our disco. Another friend (a goldsmith) made our wedding rings. One of our bridesmaids made chutney for the after dinner cheese. Our friend Abigail provided some of the very excellent “Sheep’s Nose” cider that she brews on her farm for the reception. The list goes on and we are very grateful! THE HONEYMOON We spent two weeks travelling up the west coast of California, from Los Angeles to San Francisco. 55
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
real weddings
CLAIRE ANDREW 31st August2012
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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THE DETAILS. Date: 31st August 2012 Wedding Venue: St. Peter’s church, Croft-on-Tees Reception Venue: Rockliffe Hall, Hurworth Dress: Sassi Holford, London Photographer: Dirk van der Werff Cake: Annette McManus, Durham Florist: Country Style, Durham Hair: Browns, Framwellgate Moor Cars: Brooklands wedding cars, Lanchester
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interview
THE PROPOSAL We met at work in London and we were together a few years before getting married. Andrew proposed over some champagne at a nice restaurant in London. THE DRESS I knew it had to be lace but I still ended up dragging my mum and bridesmaids round lots of different shops before making a final decision! I looked at big dresses as well but decided that I felt more stylish in a fitted dress and I loved the way that it had a separate jacket which I took off in the evening when the dancing really got going! I wasn’t going to get a veil but when I tried on the cathedral length lacy one in the shop it just made the outfit and I had to have it! SUITS Andy, the best man and two of the ushers wore their own kilts with grey jackets. My dad and brother declined the kilt option and wore grey suits with cream waistcoats. THE VENUE Rockliffe Hall - We wanted somewhere stylish with good food and plenty of rooms as the majority of our guests were travelling from Scotland or London. www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
THE FLOWERS I had a bouquet of white roses (for Yorkshire, where I was born) and thistles (for Scotland, where Andy is from) mixed with white lisianthus and baby blue. The bridesmaids had smaller bouquets with the same flowers. For the centrepieces, I bought a mixture of cream jugs and birdcages and the florist arranged the same flowers in these. THE CEREMONY The ceremony was at Croft Church, which is a lovely old church on the banks of the Tees just down the road from Rockliffe Hall. We had readings from Andy’s sister, my godmother and Andy’s goddaughter and my brother played the guitar while we signed the register. THE RECEPTION We had canapés on arrival which were mini Yorkshire puddings with roast beef, tomato and parmesan tarts, fish cakes and prawns with sweet chilli sauce. The wedding breakfast was a ham hock starter followed by chicken with asparagus and a dessert of blueberry crème brulee. We also had an evening buffet which was tray served and included mini fish and chip cones which were a real hit and pork and apple stotties. We were really impressed with the food at Rockliffe – there was a really good choice and we had our own menu advisor who was very helpful. 59
Get blown away with beautiful photography for your wedding day Wedding photographer Claire Burns combines outstanding creativity with a calm, warm personality for a level of service that will exceed your highest expectations. Claire works with you to create a mood and style that’s as unique as you are, enhancing your best features and capturing your true personality, creating beautiful images to enjoy for a lifetime. If you’d like to discuss your wedding please get in touch with us:
t 01325 482 985 e studio@burnsrowattphotography.com /burnsrowatt
@ClaireBurnsBRP
www.burnsrowattphotography.com
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VICTORIA 20 October 2012 &PRAVEEN th
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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THE DETAILS. Ceremony: St Bartholomew’s Church, Kirkwhelpington Reception: Linden Hall Hotel, Longhorsley Dress: Yap Bridal, Newcastle. Designed by Leann Belter Suits: Slaters Menswear, Newcastle Photographer: Burns Rowatt Photography, Darlington Cake supplier: The Master Cakesmith, Northumberland Florist: Katherine’s Florists, Gosforth Makeup stylists: Make Up by Jo, Darlington Cars: ATW Cars, Washington Venue Decor: Dandy Events, Newcastle Entertainment: Hip-operation Band, Morpeth
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THE PROPOSAL Prav and I met at work at our first job together and for me it was love at first sight. 8 years later and still together I kept wondering if? Especially when for our anniversary I didn’t get a card. 3 days later he called me upstairs. He was dressed in a suit and told me he was trying it on for a conference and did he look ok. He then gave me my anniversary card. When I opened it it said “Happy Anniversary to My Wife” and I thought oh he’s just picked any old card off the shelf. When I opened it, he had replaced the inside with a poem he’d written ending in the words will you marry me. I looked up and he was on one knee with the ring. I was speechless which doesn’t happen too often.
THE DRESSES I had been in one shop prior to Yap Bridal and although it was nothing like I described or what I thought I wanted, I fell in love with it and that was that. I had my 3 best friends from university as my bridesmaids and they were brilliant their dresses were from www.maidstomeasure.com. THE CEREMONY We got married in church in my mums parish. Our vicar had buried my father when he died so it felt right to have it with her where I grew up. During the ceremony we lit a candle to remember my dad so I felt in some way he was with us on the day.
THE RECEPTION We wanted to get married as soon as possible but I must say we found many venues restrictive in terms of numbers or catering and so it took a while to get a venue booked. Once we found Linden Hall they were brilliant and turned what was becoming quite a stressful experience into a more relaxed one. They honestly couldn’t have done any more for us. THE HONEYMOON Our honeymoon was a week in Universal Orlando and Disneyworld for Prav and a week to chill in St Lucia for me we had an amazing time. I have to say wedding preparations were a lot more stressful than I had thought they would be in my head! However on the day none of that mattered and getting married was what it’s all about, although this is cheesy our wedding was truly the happiest day of my life.
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real weddings
RUTH &DAVID 21 April 2012 st
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THE DETAILS. Date: 21st April 2012 Photographer: Simon Hudspeth Photography Venue: Seaham Hall Dress: Wedding Essentials, Newcastle Suits: Mia Sposa, Newcastle Cake: Cupcake & Co, South Shields Florist: Japonica Flowers, North Shields Hair: Hooker & Young, Seaham Hall Makeup: Serenity Spa, Seaham Hall
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THE PROPOSAL We met at the University of Stirling where we were both studying. I moved to Newcastle after University (after a brief attempt at the old ‘longdistance relationship’!) and we had been together almost 8 years when he proposed. We got engaged on the day of the Royal Wedding in 2011. There was no big ‘popping of the question’, I mentioned that I might put the TV on to see Kate’s dress and he said ‘Shall we get married?’ I thought he was joking so I believe my exact response was ‘Aye, go on then!’. Then I realised he was serious when he suggested we go out and buy a ring! THE DRESS I knew I didn’t want strapless or a big skirt so when I started looking I was met with a lot of blank expressions from sales assistants. There’s not much to choose from if those two aren’t your criteria! It was my sister who picked mine out of a rack and suggested I try it. It was the first one I tried on in that store and I knew it was ‘me’ when I saw myself in the mirror, and saw my Mum and sister’s reaction to it. THE VENUE We had a lot of family who were travelling to attend so we wanted
somewhere we could kind of take over and that had other accommodation nearby. We also wanted everyone to make a weekend of it, lots of people came up the day before so we had a big dinner that evening and lots of guests also stayed and used the Spa the day after the wedding. Seaham Hall had everything we needed and it was a bit of luxury for us all as well. THE BUDGET We were very lucky that both our parents helped with our wedding costs, but I did make a lot myself to save money. Myself and my sister made all the paper flowers that were used as decoration and in my bouquet and me and my many helpers also did the favours, place names and table numbers. I also had some brilliant suppliers that took my budget very seriously and were honest and creative about what could be done within those limits. THE HONEYMOON We spent the week after the wedding in the Lake District Love Shack Hideaway in Cunsey, Cumbria. Remote, peaceful and beautiful, just perfect to relax and unwind. We’re hoping to go back for our first anniversary. 67
weddings@lumleycastle.com
YOUR PERFECT FAIRYTALE WEDDING For more than 600 years the magnificent spectacle of Lumley Castle has dominated the County Durham landscape. Set within nine acres of parkland overlooking the River Wear, Lumley Castle Hotel is the perfect fairytale setting for
your Wedding Day. An exciting blend of heritage and splendour, superb food and outstanding service will make your special day one to cherish and remember forever.
WEDDING FAYRES Sunday 17th March & 20th October 2013 1.00pm - 4.00pm Admission £1.00 per person Meet with over 40 of the region’s leading Wedding industry suppliers, who will help you plan a truly memorable celebration.
FANTASTIC WEDDING PROMOTIONS... • £2000.00 Wedding Package for 40 guests • All Inclusive Package - £46.00/£48.00pp
Selected dates in January - March 2013/14 Based on 65 daytime guests accompanied by £12.50/£13.00 per person evening buffet for 100 guests.
JOIN US... facebook.com/lumleycastle FOLLOW US... twitter.com/lumleycastleltd
real weddings
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RACHEL MATTHEW 26 August 2012
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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THE DETAILS. Date: 26th August 2012 Venue: Lumley Castle Hotel Dress: Tonia Ann Bridal, Washington, by Forever Yours Suits: Greenwoods Photographer: Diamond Wedding Photography,
Hartlepool Cake supplier: Katie Mae's, North Shields Florist: Joan’s Flower Shop, Stanley Hair: Dena Ackerman Make-up: Vicki Jackson Cars: Brooklands Wedding Cars, Lanchester
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real weddings THE PROPOSAL Matt and I became friends after I tried to buy his kayak back in 2002 (Long story!). After meeting up at Matt’s house a few months later and watching the film ‘Saving Private Ryan’ we official started dating! Matt proposed on one knee at Druridge Bay in Northumberland in April, 2011. THE DRESS My dress wasn’t what I originally wanted when I started looking. From browsing online I liked some styles with elements of purple and I didn’t want too much sparkle on the dress. I eventually chose a dress that was recommended by the shop assistant at Tonia Ann Bridal. When I had it on I just knew it was the one! I suited the style, and it was the type of dress I could comfortably wear all day. THE CEREMONY During the ceremony we tried to personalise it the most we could, we opted for a candle ceremony, where 3 candles are used. Both our mums lit an outer candle each and later in the ceremony Rachel and Matt used those candles to light a central one and this symbolized the joining of a family.
THE VENUE We booked Lumley Castle as it is beautiful, historic and grand, yet with a sense of intimacy. Nothing was too much trouble for the staff at Lumley and all special requests were catered for, including getting real ale of our choice, having meal choices for guests and allowing a friend to fly his birds of prey in the grounds. It didn’t matter which member of staff we dealt with, they were all helpful and kind. THE RECEPTION We both wanted our wedding to be unique and clearly personal with elements of who were as people evident. Some of the ways in which we did this include Matt providing real ale at the venue (which isn’t normally available), a lego cake topper (with the groom riding his mountain bike), a choice of menus, which we sent out with the invites. We felt that by offering guests a choice they could personalise and enjoy their meals more.
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t’s time we introduced you to the work of Dawn and Fyzal Kirk, a duo at the cutting edge of high end, lifestyle wedding photography. If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it feels like to be a top model on a magazine shoot, then these are the photographers for you. With a background in fashion, Fyzal worked as a booker for a model agency, their work has an editorial feel which can be seen in the art direction, the specialist lighting, the poses and the sheer stylishness of the final edited pictures. One of the first to introduce the Trash the Dress concept and pre wedding shoots to the North East, this duo are constantly reinterpreting the line between art and photography, producing truly original and breathtaking images in a reportage style. “Our clients tend to be mid twenties to mid thirties and with a real vision of how they want their wedding to look,” says Fyzal. “With our pre and post wedding shoots, we discuss with the couple which way we are going to direct it, extreme or luxe, or fashion, for example, and then we work out the location, the specialist lighting, the poses and the styling, exactly as you would do on a top fashion shoot.” At the moment, the couple report, engagement shoots are really popular, with couples choosing a special location for their photography.
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“On their wedding day the couple have a lot of time constraints but on a pre or post wedding shoot, they can be far more experimental and relaxed and really enjoy the experience,” he explains. “This means the end result is a series of photographs which are very personal and meaningful to them and often very different to their wedding day photographs.”
For more information take a look at www.fyzal.com or call Dawn or Fyzal on 0191 377 3883
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WE DDING P HO T O GRAPHY
W WW. RICHARD L E NG. CO M +44( 0)7813 910 123 / 01642 605 657 / ric hard@rich a rdlen g . com
PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY
W WW. RICHARD L E NG.CO M
+44( 0)7813 910 123 / 01642 605 657 / ric hard@ rich a rdlen g . com
www.gaspphotography.co.uk | 07815 200216 | info@gaspphotography.co.uk
interview
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR Darlington's funkiest photographers, GASP, named their brand after the effect they wanted their photography to have. DW visits their studio to learn more... www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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“THE UNIQUESTYLE OF GASP’S WORK REALLY MADE THEM STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD.”
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t's safe to say that the GASP team have caused a bit of a stir on the Darlington wedding scene. Unique, creative, full of personality, their photography does what it says on the tin. It makes you gasp, then say wow, then say wow again. The walls of their uber stylish studio in Blackwellgate Arcade show a collection of beautiful photography that is eclectic yet definitively GASP. From the beautiful colourisation,
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unusual pose, or striking use of light, they demonstrate an artist's sensibility that gives the photography real visual impact and warmth. And their wedding photography manages to be both beautiful but full of personality. Funky but still keeping to the classic principles of wedding photography, these shots capture the bride and groom in a contemporary style. Chatting to founder and photographer Jade Angus in her airy studio,
you soon realise that her work is informed by her interest in people and what makes them tick. Her work may be funkily fabulous but she isn't 'too cool for school'. Both her and partner Nicky Hugill get huge enjoyment from working with people of all ages and creating amazing photography based around their personalities. "Some people say 'oh we're too boring' for you to work with, but that's not true, everyone has got something
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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about them and it's up to us to bring that out in the photography and come up with something special for them," she explains. One of GASP's favourite parts of the wedding photography is the pre or post wedding shoot. The pre wedding shoot can be free as part of the wedding package or purchased separately. It can even be held after the wedding and the bride can wear her dress and be photographed on the beach or somewhere special and
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
meaningful for the couple. "You can be a lot more imaginative and creative with a pre or post wedding shoot," says Jade. "We love doing a shoot with a couple before the wedding because they're relaxed and we can really get to know them and their personalities and this all helps when we are taking their photos on the big day." Personality is key to the GASP experience. Individual, unique, eclectic, they tell people’s stories
through their use of colour and light and the poses they get their subjects to adopt. And, like a breath of fresh air, their vibrant, warm and stunning photography is guaranteed to leave everyone speechless for all the right reasons. To take a look at the GASP portfolio check out www.gaspphotography. co.uk or call Jade or Nicky on 07815 200216 or email info@gaspphotography.co.uk
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Your wedding professionally photographed for only ÂŁ795 includes disk, preview book and album
01325 378 999 dw@timstewart.co.uk www.timstewart.co.uk
BLACKWELL GRANGE HOTEL DARLINGTON From the moment you turn into the long winding driveway and catch your first glimpse of the Georgian façade you know you are somewhere very special. Set in 9 acres of glorious countryside the hotels grounds are perfect for those all important photographs. Inside too, the splendor of the original sweeping staircase and fireplaces are truly breathtaking and a perfect backdrop to celebrating your special day.
New 2013 Packages: Gold Wedding Package • Complimentary function room hire, wedding breakfast and evening • Bucks Fizz upon arrival • 3-course wedding breakfast with tea/coffee & chocolate mints • Glass of house wine per person during the meal • Glass of sparkling wine for the toast • 5-item evening finger buffet • Half-price meal for children aged 3-12, children under 3 years old eat free • Bridal Suite for the wedding night with full English Breakfast • Dedicated Event Manager • Cake stand & knife • Red Carpet • Menu cards • White linen tablecloths & napkins • Appointed wedding co-ordinator Total Cost: £2500 – based on 40 guests daytime, 80 guests evening
Silver Wedding Package • Complimentary function room hire, wedding breakfast & evening • Bucks Fizz on arrival • Chefs choice canapés for your guests • 2 course fork buffet with salads • Bridal Suite for the wedding night with full English Breakfast • Cake stand & knife • Red Carpet • White linen table cloths • Evening Disco entertainment • Dedicated Event Manager • Appointed Wedding Co-ordinator Total Cost: £1995 – based on 80 guests Please ask about or Platinum package – £3500 for 60 day time and 100 evening guests Or our party package – £1995 for 100 evening guests
Please contact our Wedding Coordinator Telephone: 01325 509904/06 • Email: weddings.blackwell@forestdale.com
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www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
VENUES
Find out more at www.middletonlodge.co.uk
Stan Seaton Photography
Set in 250 acres of private parkland overlooking the rolling Yorkshire countryside, Middleton Lodge has created the perfect setting for a traditional country wedding party - with a slightly modern twist. Exclusive hire lets you and your guests relax and treat the Lodge as your own country mansion for the duration of your stay.
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What makes our venue different and unique?
For more information visit www.aucklandcastleweddings.co.uk
You. Put quite simply, everyone is different and so are their dreams. We are dedicated to making each of our weddings an entirely bespoke event, delivering the wedding of your dreams in what is undeniably one of the most beautiful and romantic venues in the North East of England. Whether it is a wedding in our amazing chapel or a
civil ceremony in one of our beautiful state rooms, our passionate team can offer a wedding like no other. We work with a team of handpicked and trusted suppliers who share our passion for excellence and who know and love Auckland Castle the way that we do. We are holding an exclusive launch event on February 22nd 2013 to showcase Auckland Castle Weddings.
Visit www.aucklandcastleweddings.co.uk to reserve your place.
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When Auckland Castle opens its’ doors for a special wedding launch preview on the 22nd of February, the response is likely to be similar to the coveted golden tickets for Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. For those lucky enough to attend the event, a complete guided tour of the luxurious new wedding venue is on offer with numbers limited to ensure that every couple gets the time they need to properly explore. And the castle is unlikely to disappoint visitors, it will be dressed for maximum ‘wow factor’ wedding inspiration and will feature some of the venue’s appointed suppliers. “It can be difficult for some people to visualise how a colour will work in a certain room or how a centrepiece of flowers might appear so the wedding reception areas will be dressed so that our guests can really imagine how they could look for their own wedding,” explains General Manager Rebecca Coates. With it’s fairy tale beauty, rich history and immaculate grounds, Auckland Castle offers a unique and beautiful setting for a couple’s special day. However, what truly sets it apart is the surprisingly cosy atmosphere of the venue itself, despite the imposing interiors, and the friendliness and ‘can do’ attitude of the wedding team who want you to love and enjoy the castle as much as they do.
Words - Linda Britton Photography - Burns Rowatt Photography
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enjoy a
ROYAL WEDDING Rebecca Coates landed her ideal job when she became General Manager of her beloved Auckland Castle. On the eve of the venue’s prestigious wedding launch, she tells us how she can’t wait to make other people’s dreams come true…
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“Everybody here is incredibly passionate about what we do and feels it’s a real privilege to be involved in a couple’s special day,” says Rebecca. “Every wedding is bespoke so we spend a long time with our clients helping them work out what would make their dream wedding. For this reason we only have one wedding a day because we want the bride and groom to feel truly special and have our undivided attention.” The choice of rooms available for wedding parties is impressive and the locations can be used in many different ways from a pre wedding boys’ lunch with falconry to a private reception or even a picnic on the castle lawns for the children. St Peter’s Chapel is awe inspiring yet intimate and is the largest private chapel in Europe, seating 100 comfortably. The Throne Room makes the ideal wedding breakfast venue and is designed to impress with its’ portraits of bishops lining the walls. Adjoining this, the King Charles Room with its’ beautiful oriel window overlooking the gardens, is ideal for a private dinner party on the eve of the wedding. And from here guests can wander next door with a glass of champagne and enjoy a 94
“It’s an amazing venue and opening it up for weddings marks a new chapter in the castle’s history,” private viewing of the world famous Zubarans art collection, a feature few other wedding venues could compete with. “It’s an amazing venue and opening it up for weddings marks a new chapter in the castle’s history,” says Rebecca. “The really wonderful thing is that the couples who choose to have their special day here then become part of that history. It would be lovely to think of them coming back to visit the castle years later and their children playing in the grounds or having a special meal here to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary.” www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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Simply Bows and Chair Covers manufacture high quality chair covers and accessories for you to hire, for your special event. We are a professional team of event and wedding specialists with over 20 years experience in the industry, working on many weddings and high profile corporate gatherings in some of the most prestigious venues in the UK.
Whatever your event we've got it covered
www.simplybowsandchaircovers.co.uk enquiries@simplybowsandchaircovers.co.uk Head office Call: 07595 549 623
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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t may have too many rooms to be called boutique, but in style terms, the Mercure Darlington Kings Head Hotel has all the extra little touches to create a really special boutique experience. From the fabulous 1920’s style Carriages Cocktail Bar, where you can enjoy a blackberry martini made with locally sourced blackberry jam with the girls, to the rooms with oozingly comfortable Hypnos beds, huge flatscreen LCD TVs, beauty products, mini bar and even your own expresso machine. This is London Boutique Hotel offerings at Darlington prices. Decor is contemporary with a host of striking venue spaces within the hotel, ideal for small, intimate parties up to weddings with 300 guests. The stunning Kings ballroom with its wooden floor and soft blue walls has a lovely 1920s feel, ideal for this year’s 20s trend, and can be partioned for smaller parties. It even has its own private reception area for pre dinner drinks. The Cocktail bar and lounge lends itself to drinks and canapes while the elegant Pullman lounge is suited to mid sized parties, seating 40 including a top table for the wedding 98
FIT FOR A KING
Four years ago fire devastated the Kings Head Hotel, a hotel with fine iconic architecture but little else to recommend it. Now under new ownership, it rises again like the phoenix from the flames. DW pays a visit... Words - Linda Britton Photography - Burns Rowatt Photography
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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breakfast with room to spare, with stylish decor for a wow factor. The team behind the Mercure Kings Head Hotel has been selected by James Grant, the Hotel Sales Manager, who has a luxury country house hotel background including time organising weddings at Wynyard. The emphasis is on service and high end touches without the price tag. “We only have one wedding a day and we make it as personal and special as possible for the couple,” he explains. “And we pride ourselves on affordability. We find out what’s important to the couple, what helps make it a stylish wedding for them and we break down the package to ensure that they get all the little touches but at a really affordable price.” The hotel has also applied for a civil ceremonies licence and is expecting to be a popular venue for couples who want the accessibility of a town centre location for all of their guests. Part of the wedding package also includes the honeymoon suite which is luxuriously furnished in a classic contemporary style and which overlooks the rooftops of the town, giving it a ‘Manhattan apartment’ style feel. But all the main bedrooms at the hotel are stylish, well appointed and neutral in tone, sure to please even the most demanding of guests. Offering urban chic with high end style and low end pricing, the new look Mercure Kings Head Hotel is truly set to make its mark on the Darlington Weddings scene, a successfully reborn hotel rising from the ashes.
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Brompton Northallerton North Yorkshire, DL6 2RL
01609 771040
villageinnbrompton@hotmail.co.uk
Get Married for ÂŁ1995 in 2013 includes: arrival drink, 3 course meal, glass of wine, toast, evening buffet and disco for 50 guests.
Evening Wedding Reception Buffet & Disco only ÂŁ11 per person
You can get married here as well now...
Yummy Menu - Cosy Atmosphere... @ The Village Inn www.villageinnnorthallerton.co.uk
Something old SOMETHING NEW You’ve dreamt of this day since you were a little girl, and won’t settle for anything less than perfection. The newly reopened Croft Hotel, situated in the historic and picturesque village of Croft On Tees, can literally be your own piece of your fairytale, and offers to be both your something old and new on the big day. Under the new ownership of Horton Grange Country House Hotel, considered one of the region's finest wedding venues, you can be assured that your special day will be nothing less than a realisation of your lifelong dream. The expertise of the fully trained and experienced staff has been transferred to The Croft Hotel, ensuring that this new venue will be as equally well regarded. Boasting a newly refurbished, purpose built function suite which has been specifically designed for weddings, the Croft Hotel is the perfect place to hold your celebration. The beauty and allure of the hotel is enhanced by an outdoor terrace over-
looking the North Yorkshire countryside, to provide an elegant and tranquil backdrop. Originally built in 1835, the Croft Hotel is filled with unique charm and surrounded by breathtaking views of the River Tees, the North Yorkshire countryside and is situated directly opposite St Peter's Church and the picturesque Croft Bridge. With flexible facilities capable of coping with small and large weddings alike, the function suite is suitable for up to 180 guests at the wedding breakfast, and 250 guests for the evening celebrations. A meticulously crafted menu will be created by the Croft Hotel’s superb
team of chefs, in order to meet your exact specifications ensuring your special day, truly is yours. It is the aim of the staff at The Croft Hotel to make sure that every aspect of your celebration reflects the tastes and individuality of you and your partner. To discuss The Croft Hotel’s wedding packages please speak to one of the events team by calling 01325 720 319. For more information, a tour of the hotel or to find out more about the services on offer, The Croft Hotel can be found at Croft-on-Tees, Darlington DL2 2ST. Alternatively, to download 2013’s wedding brochure please visit the website: www.crofthotel.net or contact info@crofthotel.net.
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2013? LUCKY FOR SOME...
Full of excitement following a surprise Christmas proposal, or finally ready to say your vows after a long, romantic engagement? Perhaps you think you’ve left it too late to set your date in 2013. Here, Bannatyne Hotel’s Events Manager, Jade Turnbull tells us it can be done, just leave it with her... Words - Jade Turnbull
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f the media, and not to mention your friends and family, were to be believed, planning a wedding is time-consuming, stressful, and seemingly never-ending. Catering, wine, stationery and finding accommodation for those guests having to travel can be a headache, particularly when everyone on the guest list has their own ideas as to how the day should run. What should be the most exciting event in your life to plan, can become a daunting task when it’s something you’ve never been involved with 102
before, and one of the first things most couples I meet often say is: “We have no idea where to start”. This feeling is common, and completely understandable. Yet the answer couldn’t be simpler – start with a list of everything you want, and I will pull all the strings I can to make it happen. After five years as Events Manager at Bannatyne Hotel, and with ten years’ experience in total within the business, there aren’t many requests that could shock me, or lead me to believe they cannot be fulfilled.
Whether you’re looking for an owl to fly down the aisle bearing wedding rings, a giant teepee within which to hold your reception, or the best bands and tribute acts in the business to keep your guests dancing until the early hours, I have the contacts to make these things happen with ease. Forget a two year planning process – if you want to have your wedding in 2013, both myself and the hotel’s dedicated wedding team will relieve you of any stress, and can make it happen in a matter of weeks, not months. www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
GASP Photography
Camera A
Stan Seaton Photography
Camera A
Whether you’re hoping to hold your entire day with us, from ceremony, to wedding breakfast, to evening festivities, or just one of these elements of the wedding celebration, we will ensure your day is exactly as you envisaged it, taking care to note even the tiniest of details. Our fabulous, boutique-style venue creates a stunning backdrop for any style of wedding, whether it be a classic English country garden-style affair, taking inspiration from the hotel’s quaint original features; or an alternative theme such as Halloween, www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
Bollywood or Casino, using the newly-refurbished, modern and elegant Wilbur Suite as the perfect blank canvas. Props, backdrops and lighting will all be sourced and adapted to suit your needs, giving your day a personality to suit your own. If your ceremony is to take place in church, we can help arrange transport to the hotel; alternatively, if your ceremony is going to take place within the intimate surroundings of Maxine’s Restaurant within the hotel, we can arrange accommodation for the entire bridal party
the night before, with relaxing spa treatments at the Bannatyne Spa. And for the day itself, why agonise over the menu, trying to choose one menu to suit every guest, when our chefs are happy for you to give everyone a choice of meals, ensuring those with a more refined palate can enjoy something a little special, while guests who prefer a comforting, traditional meal can rest assured, they will experience the best roast beef or sticky toffee pudding in the business! Our extensive wine list can be specifically matched to each and every 103
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Stan Seaton Photography
Stan Seaton Photography
course if you wish, and the more unusual wines and beers, that you may not find on our list, will be sourced by the hotel’s enthusiastic food and beverage team. Wondering how to keep your younger guests entertained, during what can be a long day for little ones? Childcare can be arranged, where children are treated to treasure hunts, balloon modelling and circus tricks, courtesy of trusted local companies that will provide caring staff to ensure kids have a day to remember, while their parents let their hair down and celebrate without worry. All of those special finishing touches, including chair covers, flowers and stationery, will be taken care of by myself and my team too – freeing up more time for you to perfect your dance moves for the evening reception, where our tried and tested DJs and bands will keep the dance floor full all night. I will even pre-arrange playlists, if you want to ensure The Birdie Song or Agadoo don’t make any unwelcome appearances... Finally, as the clock strikes 1am, your guests are welcome to continue the festivities at our residents’ bar, meaning you can continue chatting over a glass of champagne or three until breakfast time, if the mood takes you. And for those who are exhausted after eating, drinking and being merry, they can retire to one of the hotel’s 60 well appointed rooms, taking advantage of discounted rates especially for the wedding party. So without any major sporting or royal events getting in the way of a 2013 wedding, and with selected dates still available at Bannatyne Hotel Darlington, make this the year that you say a hassle-free “I do”.
Best Western Hardwick Hall Hotel
Wedding Packages 2013 £2,800.00 Based on 40 guests daytime and 60 guests evening £3900.00 Based on 60 guests daytime and 100 guests evening £5100.00 Based on 80 guests daytime and 120 guests evening All of the Above Packages include the following: • • • • • • •
Dedicated Wedding Co- ordinator Red Carpet Welcome Toast Master for your special day Choice of Ivory or White Table Linen Matching Chair Covers with your choice of Organza for the day reception Lily Vase or Fish Bowl with mirror and tea lights for each table Personalised Menus and Table Plan
• • • • • • •
Use of Cake Knife and Stand Chosen Function Suite for both day and evening reception Reception drink on arrival Three Course Wedding Breakfast Glass of Red or White Wine with the meal Glass of Sparkling Wine for the toast Evening Buffet and Disco
*All of the above packages as subject to availability and may only be available on certain dates throughout the year. *The above packages as also only applicable to new bookings. *Civil ceremony room hire applies.
BEST WESTERN
Enquiries: 01740 620253 HARDWICK E: events@hardwickhallhotel.co.uk www.hardwickhallhotel.co.uk HOTEL Best Western Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield, County Durham, TS21 2EH
HALL
WeFirst dding Op en Eveni ngs Thursday of
January 5th for every month February 2nd wedding open March 1st evening 6pm -8pm
Jacobean DECADENCE Redworth Hall Hotel is a breathtaking 18th Century, Jacobean country house hotel with sweeping driveway, summer house and Knott Garden. A truly romantic, picturesque setting to celebrate your special day. Words - Jaime Hume
H
eading up the sweeping driveway of Redworth Hall it is difficult not to be momentarily transported back in time to the days when this fabulous Jacobean manor house was merely a family home. The stunning grounds, picture perfect gardens, and beautiful building itself offer a welcome so warm that you just know to expect something amazing as soon as you set foot through the doors. The lavish interior at Redworth is decorated with decadence and adorned with sumptuous furniture, which gives a feeling of cosiness and belonging that belies the sheer size of www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
the place. With four function suites to choose from, Redworth Hall really do cater for events of every size. The largest room is the Surtees Suite, which can hold up to between 240 300 people. The room is flooded with natural light that pours in through the immense windows running the full length of one wall. The equally beautiful Prince Bishop Suite serves wedding breakfasts to up to 180 people. With sash windows, each divinely decorated with rich, flowing fabrics this is the room to deliver the wow factor. The Great Hall is slightly smaller in size but equally as impactful and un-
doubtedly the most popular wedding suite, playing host to functions with between 70 – 100 guests. Soaked in the history of the building, the polished wood floors, oak panelling and grand stone fireplaces announce elegance. For views across the sophisticated courtyard, the Kelvington Suite is the perfect choice, allowing the happy couple to welcome up to 40 guests and giving and extra lounge area for a more spacious feel. With fine dining, health, beauty and stylish bedrooms, Redworth Hall excel in creating everlasting, happy memories to mark your occasion. 107
interview
IN THE
LIMELIGHT
Recently we caught up with the girls behind Limelight Photo Booth Hire, one of the region’s leading hire companies to see how they have found the last year.
Hello Sarah and Sarah, it’s been 12 months since we last interviewed you, and it looks like business is booming. What’s the secret to your success? Sarah W: 2012 has been a fantastic year for us; we have met so many wonderful people both clients and suppliers! The booths have kept us very busy. I believe it’s a combination of our lively team, our booths look fantastic and the photos produced are really high quality that sets us apart. Sarah A: It’s been a great year! I think it’s our passion and dedication to ensure the bride and groom have a fantastic photo booth experience. We pride ourselves on the one to one care and aftercare that we provide. Your photo booths have always looked great; we see you now offer a lot more of a personal touch; tell us more... Sarah W: It basically allows the couple to put their personal likes and tastes into their booth; we now offer customized backdrops which 108
really enhance the images and make the photos stand out. The backdrops come in an array of different colours and prints and we add ribbons, paper fans, bunting (the list is endless) to brighten up the background this coupled with our fantastic range of props makes for an awesome image. The outside of our booths are also interchangeable meaning the bride and groom can select one of six designs available. Sarah A: We understand every bride and groom want to make their event one to remember and unique to them. Offering this personal touch is something we can relate to and we think enhances their booth experience. The prints can be personalised too with room for ‘The Wedding of Karen and Jimmy 29.12.12’ as an example. What do you think makes The Photo Booth Experience a must have at weddings at the moment? Sarah W: The entertainment factor, what could be more fun than dressing
up and acting silly with your friends and family behind a closed curtain? The booth experience takes you back to ‘the good old days’ of cramming inside a booth in private and then waiting for your photos to print with an added new twist ours are luxurious enough to fit in any wedding and perfectly lit to create quality photos. The photos print out in just 30 seconds and are high definition. Sarah A: Over the last 10 years the wedding industry has changed dramatically, every bride wants to provide the best entertainment for their nearest and dearest. The photo booth is a perfect complement to any event, enabling guests to laugh and enjoy having their images taken. Personally I think the best part is the guestbook; filled with loving messages and unique everlasting images. What makes people come to Limelight Hire? Sarah A: When people are searching for a Photo Booth company they don’t www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
interview have to look too far to see the service we have provided in the past, which I do feel speaks volumes. Our website and Facebook page are updated constantly with galleries and testimonials. If I am looking for a service or product I like to know what people have said about them to know what I’m getting is high quality. Your team has recently expanded! What does it take to become a Limelight Booth Attendant? Sarah W: A sense of humour is imperative, the ability to cope with the late nights whilst interacting with the guests so they get the most from the booth is very important. Creativity is also key when creating backdrops and putting together guest books. In general being a fun, friendly and approachable person works really well! Sarah A: We send two attendants with each hire, one to create the guestbook and the other ensures all the options such as video messaging, colour or black and white images can be selected easily. It’s important our attendants are well trained and knowledgeable in our service to maintain standards. Where do you think you will be in 12 months time? Sarah W: Retired in a villa in Spain. (laughs) Sarah A: We are looking to train up more attendants so we can focus on other ideas that we can provide the industry. I am so proud of what we have achieved and am very excited at upcoming projects. Sarah W: As long as we are still doing what we do best I will be very happy. The team will be raring to go come March 2013 ready to meet our wonderful bride, grooms and brides! 109
• the guest book • unlimited double pr ints • a huge dress up bo x • to add some fun • a disc of the photos • facebook upload • two friendly attend ants to ensure the hire ru ns smoothly
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PARTY PLANNERS
TO THE STARS With an array of props, decorations and events staff to ensure every wedding whim is catered to, Hilary Dunne, owner of Wildchilds Events, is the must-have contact for every bride-to-be.
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s the old cliché goes, Wildchilds began life as a small business ran from a spare bedroom in Hilary’s home. After working as a Marketing & Events Manager for a number of years, running events from regional awards dinners to national exhibitions, Hilary knew that her expertise would be put to good use in the wedding and events industry, supplying staff, equipment and designing entire themes for celebrations, corporate functions and public events. With a client base eventually covering the whole of the North East, Hilary’s enviable contact list and intimate venue knowledge meant the business grew fast, and nine years on, Wildchilds now occupies a 5,000 112
square-foot warehouse, a treasure trove of everything a bride could need to adorn her chosen venue. In 2013, Hilary’s Venue Stylists, and Prop & Design Team, will have the opportunity to showcase their skills from a brand new showroom, allowing clients to see the full range of centrepieces, themes and added extras available to them, whilst sampling the fantastic service provided by the company. “It’s about giving great customer service”, says Hilary. “As well as being able to produce innovative ideas that inspire your clients, and delivering what you say you will. “Weddings are magical! We love to play a part in making a couple’s day so extra special.” The team’s growing reputation
has led to a number of high profile bookings, however Hilary prides herself on discretion, and isn’t about to reveal the secrets of the stars. “We are extremely proud to say our little black book includes celebrities from sport to politics, business to music. But sorry, we never kiss and tell!” Nevertheless, such fabulous bookings have left a lasting impression and provided Hilary with her favourite theme to date. “It has to be the Winter Wonderland Wedding we did for a high profile client. The ceremony room was lined with white lit trees, and the bride arrived through a Narnia-inspired entrance. Ice sculptures and a magnificent ice bar made for a fabulous centrepiece, and that was just for starters.” As ideas and styles change for every www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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“Wildchilds were fantastic and created two completely different, but equally memorable parties.” Dragons’ Den star, Duncan Bannatyne
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
couple’s special day, Wildchilds has adapted in line with the demand of its customers over the years, remaining at the forefront of event suppliers. “When the business first began, chair covers, for instance were only ever a consideration of maybe 2% of clients. Now they are a must-have for around 98% of couples. “There will always be family and special events, and the requirements become more elaborate. With the Internet, we can source products quickly, and using our in-house team we can customise and develop themes to meet our clients’ needs.” It is the idea of tailoring the decor to suit a bride and groom’s personalities that appeals to most, as the competition for that little ‘added extra’, that no other wedding has seen before, increases. “The introduction of variations in linen is so exciting; sashes, wraps, hoods and overlays for treatments of chairs and tables; ceiling drapes and backdrops really frame a room; and the wonderful centre piece options ensure you can truly personalise your big day. Topping everything off with unusual room lighting and great finishing touches, allows the bride and groom to really get involved in the finished looked of their wedding reception. We see our job as helping our clients tie in their scheme to ensure their perfect effect is created.” Hilary’s endless quest for exciting new ideas, and her constant research into wedding trends, means 2013 is going to be another incredibly busy year for Wildchilds Events.
For more information, visit
www.wildchilds.co.uk or call 01325 730 702
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10% OFF
*offer available for a limited time only
YOUR PERFECT DAY Venue Styling Event Management Prop Hire
The complete venue styling, event management and prop hire service.
CALL US 01325 730702 VISIT WILDCHILDS.CO.UK
WEDDINGS CORPORATE OCCASIONS
Wildchilds Limited Unit 21 Nestfield Industrial Estate Darlington DL1 2NW
Sizzlin Sarah's EV ENT
ORGANISE R S
We d d i ng Pa ck ages av ai l abl e, we c over a l l Nor t h Yor ksh i re & Nor t h E ast B a l lo on D e c or at ion for a l l o c c asions | C hai r C overs & S ashes | Table r unners St ar l ig ht b ack d rops & t able sk i r t s | Bi rdc ages | Postb oxes | Mi r ror B as es Ost r ich Plu mes | C and le abr as | Mar t i ni Vas es | Fish B ow ls | Wishi ng Tre es C andy C ar t | C andy Swe e t Tre es | Fanc y Dress & Par t y Ac c ess or ies We dd ing Favou rs | Fac e Pai nt i ng & Gl itter Tatto o 's We ddi ng Pl anner av ai l able by app oi nt ment . w w w. n o r t h y o r k s h i r e e v e n t p l a n n i n g . c o . u k F a c e b o o k : s i z z l i n s a r a h’s E v e n t - O r g a n i s e r s 2 7 S H U T E R OA D C AT T E R I C K G A R R I S O N D L 9 4 A F TEL: 01748 836683 MOBILE: 07816371161
r e f f i D , d is gne
De
Design e Differe d, nt, Decor
The T im based eless Tab le in Du rham
quirky
beautiful
The Timeless Ta ble based in Durh am, known as the ho me of North East Vintage Wedding and Event Hire. A bespoke service providing unique ceremony and ve nue dressing, ele gant chair covers and elaborate table ce ntres, with a quirky and individual edge.
r o c e D , t n e r e f f i D vintage
bespoke
chair
covers
Office: 01913882387 | Mobile: 07960243534 myevent@thetimelesstable.co.uk | www.thetimelesstable.co.uk
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g n i r a D
TO BE DIFFERENT
Daring to be different may be a challenge for some, but for Donna Hartley-Redfearn, owner of Timeless Table, it’s an everyday occurence in her constant search for uniqueness.
T
imeless table is a distinctive kind of company, created to fill a gap in a niche market that no-one else had managed to capture. Their strength developing a couple’s thoughts and ideas into a theme, then sourcing expertly designed items to bring their wedding to life . Having already captivated the high-end market with her hugely successful business, North East Wedding Planners, Donna was no stranger to the wedding industry, yet along with her team of professionals she often found it difficult to source ‘things’ to fit her clients exact styling . As a consummate professional who always delivers, she became accustomed to travelling far and wide, visiting all manner of weird and wonderful craft fayres, art shows, home exhibitions and the like in a bid to find décor with a difference. Once used, each decadently different artefact or accessory becomes part of the stock at the Timeless Table, to be adored and loved by future couples. Donna undoubtedly has the ability
to make each and every client feel like their special day is the only wedding in the world. She tells us, “I adore taking the time to chat to people and draw my inspiration from discovering what they’re about as individuals as well as a couple, what they’re passionate about, the aspirations they have and their hopes for the future. It’s this knowledge and our truly bespoke approach that enables us to create a theme that exceeds every dream they ever had about their big day.” For a bespoke service providing unique ceremony and venue dressing, elegant chair covers and elaborate table centres, with a quirky and individual edge, contact Donna and the team here: www.thetimelesstable.co.uk 117
SPECIALISTS IN WEDDING AND EVENT DECOR
STYLISH CHAIR COVERS AND BOWS | CONTEMPORARY CENTREPIECES ELEGANT CANDELABRAS | OSTRICH FEATHER DISPLAYS TOP OF THE RANGE STARLIGHT BACKDROPS | VENUE STYLING & MORE THE FIRST CLASS WEDDING COMPANY are specialists in venue decoration for weddings and events. We provide a friendly, professional service to help you create a look to suit your own individual style and personality. Our chair covers come in a number of sizes, colours and styles to ensure a perfect fit and we have a range of elegant centrepieces and accessories to complement your theme. Choose us to help you achieve the first class setting for your special occasion.
Contact Angela on Mob: 07790 906316 Tel: 01642 750752 Email: info@firstclassweddingco.com Web: www.firstclassweddingco.com
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A ONE-STOP
WEDDING
SHOP
Every traditional wedding requires the same staple items: a church, registry office or licensed venue; food and drink for the reception; and some form of entertainment. But it’s the little extras that will make your nuptials truly unique, yet with an overwhelming choice of adornments on the market, it’s hard to know how to pull a theme together without clashing colours, fabrics and styles.
T
hat’s where The First Class Wedding Company steps in. Owner Angela started the business as a chair cover supplier in 2008, and since 2011 has been a supplier of all things decor-related. “As well as chair covers, we have a range of fantastic centrepieces”, says Angela. “Ostrich feather displays, elegant candelabras, and contemporary glass vases. We can also provide full room draping, fibreoptic starlight backdrops and mood lighting.” With contacts in London and the USA, ensuring The First Class Wedding Company always stays one step ahead of the competition, Angela is already excited for the new trends filtering through from overseas.
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
“Lace is still going to be popular in 2013, with lace sashes to give a 1920s vintage feel, along with lots of pearls and gold décor influenced by programmes such as Downton Abbey. Bird designs are very trendy, and this will influence wedding decorations with lovebird accessories, bird cages and feathers. Pastel shades, particularly dusky pinks, ivory, pale silver and mint green are emerging as fashionable for weddings this year. And wish trees, used instead of guest books or as table centrepieces, are going to be really popular.” For further inspiration, visit www. firstclassweddingco.com to see the full range of decorations and accessories. 119
Spring Wedding Fayres experience these exciting new Wedding Exchange events brought to you by Truly Madly Heavenly Events.....
Events. Weddings. Corporate.
SUN 3rd March 2013 The Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel An Art Deco inspired event at this prime Town Centre hotel Free Entry - 11am - 4pm
SUN 10th March 2013 Hurworth Grange Manor House An Edwardian inspired event at this magnificent historic venue Free Entry - 11 am - 3pm
SUN 21st april 2013 Aston Hotel nr Darlington A modern venue with a stylish contemporary twist Free Entry - 11 am - 3pm Vision Pre-register to receive your bridal vision bag: Bag Mercure: http://kingshotelweddingfayre.eventbrite.co.uk Hurworth: http://hurworthgrangeweddingfayre.eventbrite.co.uk Aston: http://astonhotelweddingfayre.eventbrite.co.uk Visit our web site for more details. www.trulymadlyheavenly.co.uk
THE FINAL
flourish For many, it’s the final flourishes and finishing touches that make each wedding so memorable. With so many little extras to choose from these days it’s no surprise that bridesto-be become befuddled with the range of choices out there and are calling upon expert advice to guide them through the staggering array of options available. Enter the team of professionals at party on delights, who pride themselves on delivering tailormade packages to each and every customer. For Lucy Exelby, who
Suppliers of:
Chair Covers & Sashes Starlight Backdrop Table Skirts Tailored Centrepieces Professional Balloon Displays Victorian Candy Cart Original Cast Iron Royal Mail Post Box Plus much much more... Contact Lucy on:
07725 144791 www.partyondirect.co.uk lucy@partyondirect.co.uk find us on facebook
owns this occasions company, their ethos is easy to explain, “Individuality is the key, which is why we love nothing more than spending time with our customers. By meeting everyone personally, we can work with them to provide all manner of extras, from fancy balloons to fish bowls, chair sashes to centrepieces. There’s something within our range to suit everyone. ” The extensive collections available at party on direct cater to each and every budget; for more information visit www.partyondirect.co.uk
Vintage Photo Booth Studio
smile@
boothal
icious.c
o.uk
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The Secret Diary of a
Boothologist Just eight months and a bit into this tashtastic journey, we find ourselves revelling in the memories of our mischief. Our photo booth studio has been the catalyst of our prop addiction both in front and behind the camera.
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st May 2012 - OMG! We’re officially Boothalicious! Our brand new baby was born today, if you look up super-excited in the dictionary there’ll be a picture of us, head through a frame looking proud as punch with ourselves!
7
th July 2012 - Eeeeekkkk! Baptism of fire today – it was our first wedding and it was at Wynyard flippin’ Hall – nervous doesn’t even come close. What a buzz! The guests were awesome and everything went like clockwork. It’s going to feel a bit strange calling this dressy-up fun-fest 'work'!
31
st October 2012 - Is this year going to get any more surreal?! Such is the demand for our Boothaliciousness we’re getting even bigger, which can only mean one thing – new Boothologists. Welcome aboard the crazy train Dan & Nat!
3
rd November 2012 - What’s more fun than just having Sooty in the prop chest? Oh, yeah, we have Sweep – and he really squeaks!
7
th November 2012 - Holy moustache…..we’ve been nominated in The Wedding Industry Awards and are on the Regional shortlist for ‘Best Entertainment’ and are NATIONAL, yes, N-A-T-I-O-NA-L finalists for ‘Best Newcomer.’ Bit lost for words really, so just going to keep dancing around the room and squealing.
1
st December 2012 - Today is a very sad day. Our much loved diamante sunstaches, all the way from Florida, U-S-A have departed this world for prop heaven. Sniff. We really must stop getting so attached to our props….whimper.
31
st December 2012 - What a tashtastic first 8 months... 2013 couldn't possibly bring bigger and better things... could it?!
... to be continued
Girls grab your lipstick and boys comb your tash for a proptastic experience of pure silliness and lasting memories.
www.boothalicious.co.uk or 07974 153334
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
CAKES
For more of Maxine’s work, check out www.prettyliciouzcakes.co.uk
Burns Rowatt Photography
We love this beautiful 4 tier vintage inspired cake with pretty pastel flowers and pearls, from Maxine at Prettyliciouz Cakes.
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Creative
CAKES Dreamworld Cakes
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Dreamworld Cakes Photographs: Rachel Rose Photography
Prettyliciouz Cakes
Dreamworld Cakes
Burnett 4 Cakes
Cakealicious
Prettyliciouz Cakes
Dreamworld Cakes
Sadie May Cakes
Sadie May cakes
Burnett 4 Cakes
Cakealicious
Burnett 4 Cakes
Prettyliciouz Cakes
Gold award winner Bernadett Szucs, and regional winner of the 2012 Wedding Industry Awards Best Wedding Cake Designer, specialises in creating beautiful, contemporary, elegant and classic wedding and celebration cakes for all occasions. Please contact us to arrange a visit to our studio where you can see the designs in real life, sample our delicious cakes and discuss any queries that you may have.
Phone: 07794945202 Email: info@dreamworldcakes.co.uk
www.dreamworldcakes.co.uk Image Š KG Photography
Cakealicious - Celebration Cakes by Julia Rowlson -
Delicious & Stunning Wedding Cakes
01325 327006 | julia@cakealicious.org.uk | www.cakealicious.org.uk
Our wide range of wedding, celebration cakes and prices can be viewed on the Burnett 4 Cakes website at
www.burnett4cakes.co.uk Chris Burnett is a Highly qualified Patisserie Chef with many years of experience in the catering industry.
Find us on Facebook
50 The Grange | Tanfield Lea | Stanley | Co. Durham | DH9 9UT Tel: 01207 2820 98 Mobile: 07990 6000 44 Email: enquiries@burnett4cakes.co.uk
passion & care www.wildwillowflorists.co.uk t: 01642 676 629 m: 07546 805 702 e: wildwillowflorists@gmail.com 10 Castlegate Shopping Centre, High St, Stockton, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 1AR Wild Willow Flower Shop is a fresh business where we create artistic arrangements using the finest fresh seasonal flowers and foliages. Our flowers are chosen to capture the spirit of the season and to express the right sentiment. Our friendly and reliable service includes same day delivery to Teeside, Darlington & beyond.
FLOWERS
Visit the new store on Duke Street, Darlington or online at www.elizablooms.co.uk
Stan Seaton Photography
Looking for something a little bit different for your big day? Eliza Blooms offers unusual flowers, always beautifully designed with care and attention, whatever the occasion.
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flowers
Briar House Flowers
Stan Seaton Photography
R&R Mills Floral Design
Briar House Flowers
The Weddings & Events Company
Stan Seaton Photography
The Weddings & Events Company
The Weddings & Events Company
Elm Ridge Flowers
Briar House Flowers
The Weddings & Events Company
Elm Ridge Flowers
The Weddings & Events Company
135 Adam Prest
Adam Prest
Stan Seaton Photography
stationery
Hope You can Make It
Little Cherub Design
The Wedding Invitation Company
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Noble Fine Art
Coo Chi Coo
Indie Wedding By Jen
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
stationery
The Wooden Lady Bird Company
Indie Wedding By Jen
Silver Birch Designs
The Wooden Lady Bird Company
Coo Chi Coo
Hope You can Make It
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
Silver Birch Designs
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Special Weddings deserve
special invitations THE
WEDDING INVITATION COMPANY
Cards | Scrolls | Favour Boxes Envelopes | Invitations | Table Plans Traditional | Wedding Post Boxes and much more...
Tel: 01325 481009 | Email: lindama@hotmail.co.uk | www.theweddinginvitationcompany.co.uk www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
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Truly Bespoke The humble invitation requests the pleasure of another person’s company, which is why for many brides the design is of the utmost importance. After all, it creates a lasting first impression and a tempting teaser of the big day itself. Indulging her own creative flair, Alli Mackinnon set up Ruby Shoes just a year ago, and her inspirational invitations have already led her to be nominated as ‘best newcomer’ in the North of England wedding awards,
a huge accolade for a fledgling business. Asked what she does that sets herself apart from others, Alli told us, “I simply strive to give brides exactly what they want. My designs are individual to each couple and are created with budget, theme and style in mind.” With a DIY range in the pipeline for brides who want to make their own invitations, but need inspiring ideas, Ruby Shoes is sure to be on everyone’s stationery radar in 2013.
Stationery that says something special Save the dates, invitations and more, designed just for you. hello@rubyshoeswedding.co.uk www.rubyshoeswedding.co.uk www.facebook.com/rubyshoeswedding Proud to be a finalist in the North of England Wedding Awards 2012 - thanks to my lovely brides !
Getting Married? Let us help you plan for your big day See our website for full details of our wedding packages, suitable for the whole wedding party! • • • • •
Skin Rejuvenation Thread Vein Removal Laser Hair Removal Botox and Fillers Microdermabrasion
Blacketts Skin & Laser Clinic, is an aesthetic clinic run by fully qualified GP’s and we offer free no obligation consultations.
www.blackettskinandlaserclinic.co.uk e: info@bslc.co.uk | t: 01325 347267 Bondgate, Darlington, DL3 7JR Blacketts Skin & Laser Clinic
@BlackettsLaser
BEAUTY
Perfect for your wedding day, a lipstick that offers more than just colour - the first age defying lipstick from Clarins. Fifteen shades of lip nourishing, luminous colour with a delicious liquorice scent and flavour. Rouge Eclat Satin Finish Lipstick, available now from House of Fraser (Binns), Darlington 141
Make-up by Jo Professional Make-up Artist * Specialist Bridal Make-up * Fashion Shoots * Editorial * Make-up Lessons
M: 07815 835 211 E: jo@makeupbyjo.co.uk
www.makeupbyjo.co.uk JoLeversuch
Make up by Jo
make-up tips and hints
GETTING MARRIED ABROAD?
TOP TIP
Drink plenty of water leading up to your wedding day. If you opt to sunbathe make sure you use a high SPF suncream to protect your skin.
nts Make-up Tips and Hi
Congratulations if you are getting married abroad. If you are applying your own make-up on your wedding day it is essential that you purchase make-up to take with you that will not only look flawless but will also stay on during your wedding in the hot weather.
Primer: IMER An oil free primer PR
to help with the excess oil in the skin before applying your foundation. Ariane Poole Ultimate Anti-Shine Primer. FOU NDATION Use foundations Foundation: that are lighter in texture, oil free and silicone based which are suitable for hot weather. If your skin is flawless you can also use oil free tinted moisturizer. Estee Lauder Double Wear Light Foundation. ES Waterproof mascara, EY Eyes: eyeliner and stay put Estee Lauder Double eyeshadows come in various Wear Light Foundation shades. Bobby Brown Long Wear Gel Eyeliner and Long Wear Cream Eyeshadow.
Bobby Brown Long Wear Gel Eyeliner & Long Wear Cream Eyeshadow
CH EEKS Cheeks:
Silicone based waterproof liquid blusher in fabulous shades to choose from. Daniel Sandler Watercolour Blush. PS Change from your winter LI Lips: matt rich lipsticks to a lighter version of lipglosses or lipstains. Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturising Lip Colour Balm. Final preparations: FINAL PREPAR
Daniel Sandler Watercolour Blush
ATIONS
Take some Tatcha Blotting Paper Sheets to blot away any shine without disturbing the make-up.
Tatcha Blotting Paper Sheets
Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturising Lip Colour Balm
If you would like further advice or to book me in for a one to one private make-up lesson. Please contact me on www.makeupbyjo.co.uk 143
make-up
KAYLEIGH DENHAM
PROFESSIONAL MAKE-UP ARTIST www.kayleighdenham.com m: 07834 829077
e: kayleigh_denham@hotmail.co.uk
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A PROFESSIONAL
OPINION
Whoever said beauty was in the eye of the beholder was telling lies. Beauty is undoubtedly at its best when left firmly in the hands of the professionals.
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ith over 20 years in the industry, wedding make-up and beauty specialist Paula Pace has picked up more than her fair share of trade secrets and she’s keen to share one such tit-bit, “Airbushing isn’t just for models in magazines!” she says with an all-knowing smile. It turns out to be one of the long-lasting make-up techniques that Paula has perfected and one which is popular with brides,
giving them a stunning look that also encourages the ultimate beauty essential, ‘confidence.’ Paula gives careful consideration to each bride’s theme, colour and personal style during an initial consultation and trial. Options such as spray tanning, nail art and luscious lashes are also discussed, ensuring even the most make-up shy bride can feel at ease with her own beauty on her big day.
Paula Pace perfection nail & beauty _ airbrush Make-up _ artistic & Bio Sculpture Nails _ Pre wedding pamper parties _ Spray Tans _ Brow Perfection _ eyelash extensions _ Vintage hair styling Fully mobile service covering the North east. (travel costs may apply)
www.perfectionnailandbeauty.co.uk www.simonewhitehead.co.uk E: mail@perfectionnailandbeauty.com T: 07810072364 www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
20 years make-up and hair experience
bespoke handmade head pieces & jewellery Bespoke headpieces and jewellery made to match any style, these are unique one off pieces. We also source accessories for brides, lace vintage gloves, bags and stoles.
t: 07790658201 e: jo.diamond@hotmail.co.uk www.elscabridalaccessoresandjewellery.co.uk
FOR MEN MACA ROOT SHAVE CREAM 200ml This bestselling shaving cream softens bristles and improves razor glide for a close, comfortable shave. Contains Peruvian maca root.
men’s products
TOP MEN’S WEDDING BEAUTY PRODUCTS from Maxine Weems in house make-up expert at The Body Shop, Darlington.
WOODEN SHAVING BRUSH A wooden shaving brush that enhances the foamy lather of your shaving cream and feels soft on your skin.
FOR MEN MACA ROOT SHAVE CREAM 125ml A rich cream to perfectly prepare the skin for a close and comfortable shave, whilst conditioning and moisturising skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. Suitable for all skin types.
FOR MEN MACA ROOT FACE SCRUB This daily-use facial scrub gently exfoliates and prepares skin for shaving. Contains Peruvian maca root.
FOR MEN MACA ROOT FACE WASH This foaming facial wash effectively cleanses skin without over-drying.
KISTNA HAIR & BODY WASH This head-to-toe body wash for men has a fresh green scent. It leaves skin and hair clean and fresh.
KISTNA EAU DE TOILETTE This eau de toilette for men combines fresh citrus top notes of grapefruit and lemon with a herbal heart and base notes of cedarwood and vanilla.
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
FOR MEN MACA ROOT ENERGETIC FACE PROTECTOR This energising daily moisturiser with SPF 15 hydrates and protects skin. Contains Peruvian maca root.
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Lovedubcars Specialist in VW Weddings
Three stunning VW buses, two classic cabriolet beetles plus a modern bug.
www.lovedubcars.co.uk www.lovedubcars.co.uk
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camping it up
Va Va Voom, ditch the limo and make a style statement courtesy of the Lovedubcars team. We meet them to find out why it’s a family affair…
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f your wedding is going to be all about style and personality, then you might want to take a look at the rather fabulous Lovedubcars, a VW wedding car specialist based in Middleton St George. Their reputation is such that, after just a few short years, Rachel and James Calvert’s initial investment in a VW Camper Van has blossomed into their current VW family, six VW vehicles, three classic VW buses, two Classic Karmann beetle cabriolet and one modern beetle cabriolet, all dressed to impress in VW white. And family it very much is, with their first camper van being www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
christened Tilly, their favourite girl’s name. And soon it wasn’t long before Tilly was joined by Alice, Mr Bennett, Digby, Chaz and Julio. The fact that all the vehicles have their own names and story gives you an insight into James and Rachel’s approach to business. Warm and personable, James describes working with brides and grooms on their big day as ‘joyful’ and it’s clear all the team at Lovedubcars enjoy the day nearly as much as the bride and groom. “We don’t do the whole ‘middle aged man in a grey suit chauffeur thing’, says James. “Our drivers are usually female, wearing a nice dress
and are always on hand to help with the bride’s dress or veil and make sure all the bridesmaids look lovely and are relaxed and enjoying themselves.” The key, he says, is finding the right people to be part of the Lovedubcars team. “We look for very special people to work with us,” he explains. “They have to love VWs and they have to see being part of someone’s special day as a real privilege, because it really is. We love every moment of what we do.” For more information contact James or Rachel on 07975 968 457 or email lovedubcars@googlemail. com. Check out the VW family at www.lovedubcars.com 155
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GET ME TO THE CHURCH ON TIME!
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ith the demand for vintage weddings showing no signs of slowing down, Classic Wedding Cars and Limousines are the obvious choice for wedding transport. The nerve-wracking journey from home to church, or your venue of choice, should be one that reflects the luxury and style of your day. So whether your theme is modern and slick, or vintage and girly, Classic Wedding Cars provide beautiful and comfortable vehicles to make it a truly memorable trip. Covering an area from Morpeth
to Scarborough, encompassing the Dales to the Coast, Classic Wedding Cars can offer transport for just the Bride and Groom themselves, as well as additional cars for family and friends, to ensure the whole bridal party can travel in style, too. With a combined experience of over 80 years in the industry, the uniformed chauffeurs will personalise each couple’s car of choice with a coloured ribbon to match their theme, as well as discussing each Bride and Groom’s preferred route to the reception, meaning landmarks
and beauty spots significant to the couple, can be visited en route. Owner Neal Huitson says: “Currently, the most popular cars are the Beauford Grand Tourers and Daimler Limousines, closely followed by the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow and Bentley Mulsanne, and the Vintage Rolls-Royce Light Vl and Bentley MKVl cars. “We are already expanding in 2013, having bought another two cars in the first week of the New Year, and other purchases are on the way, including larger seated cars for guests.”
Classic Wedding Cars
Classic Wedding Cars offer a range of bridal wedding cars and vintage wedding cars in County Durham and North East
You can call us on: 01740 620 147 or 07721 771 113 www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
www.classic-wedding-cars.co.uk
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JONNY ROSS MUSIC
WEDDING BAND, ACOUSTIC ENTERTAINMENT AND WEDDING DJ
WWW.JONNYROSSMUSIC.COM | ENQUIRIES@JONNYROSSMUSIC.COM 0113 243 6832 | @JONNYROSSMUSIC1
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
R&R MILLS Floral Design
Beautiful Flowers Arranged Thoughtfully and with Care. tel: 01325 482 906 email: rachel@rmillsfloraldesign.co.uk www.rmillsfloraldesign.co.uk
Infinity Chair Covers
"CHAIR COVERS & BESPOKE WEDDING DECORATION" t: 07853 318 493 infinitychaircovers@hotmail.co.uk
www.infinitychaircovers.co.uk
Here at The Spa Hotel we pull out all the stops to make sure you get your perfect day. Flexibility is key so just let us know if you have a specific idea in mind that's not detailed in our package and we'll bend over backwards to make it happen. Find us on Facebook at “The Spa Hotel Saltburn” or contact Cathy on 01287 622544
BLACKWELL GRANGE HOTEL
WIN
S! I H T L AL
competitions
Win up to 50 chair covers, 5 centrepieces, starlight backdrop & matching starlight top table skirt from Beckwith Events
WIN a fabulous 2 hour standard photo booth package to wow your guests, from Boothalicious
Win a 3 Tier wedding cake from Prettyliciouz
£350
£250
£300
Win a £100.00 Voucher from Euphoria Boutique
Win an overnight Bed & Breakfast stay for two at Redworth Hall Hotel
£110
£100
worth
£1346.00
Win a Shrinking violet inch loss body wrap & a 30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage from Pampered Soul
£76 Win an overnight vintage wedding post box hire by Weddingpostbox.net
£40 Win bespoke wedding invites for 60 guests by Hope You Can Make It
Win a set of 3 Bespoke standing decorations by Joey & Annie at Home
£75
£45
www.darlingtonweddings.co.uk
To enter these fabulous competitions, simply visit www. darlingtonweddings.co.uk/ competitions and follow the instructions. Terms & Conditions apply and the closing date for the competitions is August 30th 2013. 161
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etc
Wedding
Picture courtesy of David Lawson Photography
SHOWS
Sunday, March 3
ROCK L I F F E H A L L Sunday, March 24
Free event. Must pre-book your ticket online www.etcnortheast.co.uk Or for further information telephone 0780 3505 720
BANNATYNE HOTEL
AND
BAR & RESTAURANT DA R L I N G TO N
Something to celebrate?
Whether you have enjoyed a long engagement, or an exciting Christmas proposal, you may think there is no time to plan your dream day in 2013!
This is where we step in – our dedicated wedding team is on hand to ensure every part of the planning process is taken care of. From catering, to accommodation, to table decorations, every last detail will be planned to perfection. This stunning Grade II listed town house with character, style and warmth from the moment you step through the front door, can be yours exclusively for your special day. From ceremony, to reception, to evening festivities, Bannatyne Hotel Darlington is the perfect backdrop for anything from intimate gatherings, to large celebrations.
For more information please contact:
01325 365858
Southend Avenue | Darlington | County Durham | DL3 7HZ Telephone: 01325 365858 | Fax: 01325 487111 Minimum of 60 Guests and on the above dates only. events.darlingtonhotel@bannatyne.co.uk | www.bannatyne.co.uk