Salcombe Harbour Hotel & Spa Wedding Magazine by Harbour Hotels

Weddings in the South DEVON EDITION

T H E O F F I C I A L W E D D I N G M A G A Z I N E O F S A L C O M B E H A R B O U R H O T E L & S PA

WELCOME / CONTENTS

WELCOME SHOWCASING OUR BEAUTIFUL NEWLY REFURBISHED SALCOMBE HARBOUR HOTEL & SPA AND PACKED FULL OF GREAT FEATURES, WE’RE DELIGHTED TO INTRODUCE OUR FIRST WEDDINGS IN THE SOUTH, DEVON EDITION. This first issue is full of fantastic ideas to help you plan your wedding day. Beautiful Blooms is the perfect feature to help you pick your wedding flowers and Finishing Touches is full of all those little details that make your wedding truly unique. In Salcombe we are blessed with a spectacular location overlooking the Estuary, along with our stunning new hotel – we’re sure you will instantly fall in love with both the venue and romantic town, from the moment you turn the first page… From picking up the perfect dress to where to honeymoon, your wedding will be a flawless day to remember. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’d love to give you a tour of our new hotel, Marine Room and stunning outdoor terraces; bringing to life what your day could be like at our Salcombe Harbour Hotel & Spa.

The Events Team

Salcombe Harbour Hotel & Spa T. 01548 845 081 E. elle.george@harbourhotels.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY KINDLY SUPPLIED BY: Bang Wallop Photography Explosures Wedding Photography Love Day Photography Norsworthy Weddings Zooming Feet Photography

30 46

CONTENTS SALCOMBE HARBOUR HOTEL & SPA Weddings in the South, Devon Edition, is produced by Harbour Hotels. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure that the content in this magazine is accurate, Harbour Hotels cannot accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of Harbour Hotels. Information is correct at time of going to press. Views expressed are not necessarily those of Harbour Hotels. Every effort has been made to trace the copyright holders of material used in this magazine. If any copyright holder has been overlooked, we will be happy to make any necessary arrangements. Harbour Hotels do not endorse any advertisements or opinions expressed within this magazine. Front Cover: Image courtesy of Kiss Photography

With the multi-million pound refurbishment now complete, the luxury hotel is set to become the region’s most desirable waterfront wedding venue

A TOWN TO FALL IN LOVE WITH

DRIFT AWAY INTO SEASIDE SERENITY 18

A picture is worth a thousand memories…

24 30

Have a fantastically floral celebration

A DRESS TO IMPRESS

Relax into your big day, as you make the most of our luxury new Harbour Spa…

LOVE THROUGH THE LENS

Catering to your wedding day wishes

BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS

Consider the little details for a perfect day

Tucked on the banks of a tranquil Devonshire estuary, Salcombe is the perfect escape all year round.

DELECTABLE DINING

FINISHING TOUCHES

HOME & AWAY

Picture your perfect honeymoon…

THE DIRECTORY

Your ‘little black book’ for the perfect day

It’s never too soon to start your search for ‘the one’

SAL C O M BE H ARB O UR H O T E L & SPA

Salcombe

HARBOUR HOTEL & SPA

WITH THE MULTI-MILLION POUND REFURBISHMENT OF SALCOMBE HARBOUR HOTEL & SPA NOW COMPLETE, THE LUXURY HOTEL IS SET TO BECOME THE REGION’S MOST DESIRABLE WATERFRONT WEDDING VENUE. TAKE YOUR VOWS IN OUR BEAUTIFUL MARINE ROOM, SIP CHAMPAGNE ON THE PRIVATE WEDDING TERRACE AND THEN HEAD DOWN TO THE WATER’S EDGE FOR YOUR BREATH-TAKING PHOTOS.

SAL C O M BE H ARB O UR H O T E L & SPA

hether you are looking for an aweinspiring venue for an intimate coastal wedding, or a superb backdrop for a grander affair, the versatility of the venue allows you to really make the day your own.

THE MARINE ROOM The magnificent Marine Room offers a setting like no other. Licenced to hold civil ceremonies for up to 120 guests, the stunning function room provides a breathtaking backdrop for you to take your vows against. The Marine Roomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s floor to ceiling windows open out onto a private outdoor wedding terrace, perfect for your Champagne reception. Evening events can

hold up to 150 guests; with a wooden dance floor, integrated sound system and private bar for your party to enjoy.

JUST THE TWO OF US For those that desire an intimate and personal ceremony, for up to six guests, the hotel offers a stunning setting with a suite on our top floor; boasting stunning panoramic views of the Estuary. If you wanted to keep it to 'just the two of us', we can have two members of our team act as witnesses. After you say 'I Do' you can then step directly onto your own private balcony for a glass of Champagne overlooking the glistening water below.

SAL C O M BE H ARB O UR H O T E L & SPA

THE HOTEL With rich fabrics, crisp linens and deeply comfortable beds, many with private balconies and stunning panoramic estuary views, the hotel’s 50 bedrooms are stylish, luxurious and impeccably furnished. Stay in complete luxury as husband and wife, as you surround yourselves with your family and friends, encouraging them to make the most of their visit with an extended stay and the chance to explore the stunning local area. The hotel’s new destination restaurant ‘The Jetty’ takes full advantage of its waterside location, with menus created by award winning Chef Patron Alex Aitken, who retained a Michelin star in the New Forest and Dorset for 14 years, and top local chefs delivering mouth-watering fresh and seasonal dishes.

LUXURY HARBOUR SPA Sunken into the cliff side, the new Harbour Spa is lavishly spread out over two floors. Featuring five treatment rooms, fitness suite, indoor pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam room, this is the perfect place to relax and unwind as you prepare for the biggest day of your life. Curl up in a private poolside cabana or indulge with an ESPA or Harbour Signature treatment.

SAL C O M BE H ARB O UR H O T E L & SPA

EXPLORE Miles of glorious beaches, acres of beautiful countryside and a thriving music and arts scene, the South Hams is a fantastic place to explore. With no shortage of things to do whilst staying in Salcombe, there are plenty of on the water activities, areas of interest, shops and more to explore. Encourage your guests to get out and enjoy the area, with an extended stay. Or, for those not flying away on honeymoon straight away, stay a little longer and soak up the delights of this stunning corner of Devon. For more information call us on 01548 844444 or email salcombe@harbourhotels.co.uk or visit us at www.salcombe-harbour-hotel.co.uk.

B R I DA L H A I R B Y C AT E R C OV E H A I R D R E S S I N G , S A L C O M B E

01548 843178 www.catercove.co.uk

Create Your Dream Wedding in Devon & Cornwall Inspire Hire Designer Furniture Hire, Decorative Hire & Event Styling

Eleanor Winsor Grime Email: elle@inspire-hire.co.uk Tel: 07977 574 597

www.inspire-hire.co.uk

SALCOMBE

A Town to

FALL IN LOVE WITH TUCKED ON THE BANKS OF A TRANQUIL DEVONSHIRE ESTUARY, SALCOMBE IS THE PERFECT ESCAPE ALL YEAR ROUND.

SALCOMBE

SALCOMBE IS A POPULAR DESTINATION THANKS TO ITS WATERSIDE LOCATION, WEST COUNTRY CHARM AND STUNNING NATURAL ENVIRONMENT.

his idyllic coastal town in the most southerly part of Devon is surrounded by picturesque villages, impressive coastal scenery, Blue Flag beaches, and all within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Explore the narrow winding streets of Salcombe, with its many chic boutiques, or head to the hills for a romantic coastal walk, equipped with a Jetty picnic. Not forgetting water-based activities like yachting, paddle-boarding, shipwreck diving and surfing...

Salcombe is famed for its sailing waters; if you love messing about on the water, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll love this town. With mild weather throughout the year, Salcombe is a popular destination thanks to its waterside location, West Country character and charm and stunning natural environment. A vibrant, busy little town that still manages to retain that unique Devon charm, Salcombeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history is intrinsically linked with the sea. Until about 100 years ago the people of Salcombe earned their living from the estuary and the

SALCOMBE

sea. Fishing, seafaring, boat and later shipbuilding were the main occupations, but smuggling and even piracy meant that settlements were not built at the water’s edge but further inland. Today, Salcombe is still a thriving harbour, but without the pirates. Head to Fore Street and explore its many boutiques and restaurants, serving the best in Devon produce, fresh fish and local meats. Devon is well known for its ale, and Salcombe pubs offer a good selection of locally made beer, as well as a friendly atmosphere in unique maritime surroundings. Whilst visiting, you and your guests can take advantage of this unique location. Why not arrange a boat trip for your party, or visit nearby attractions including Sharpham vineyard's ‘trek and taste’ tours or the South Devon Chilli Farm. Another unique activity to be enjoyed is the hotel’s ‘Catch it, Cook it, Eat it’ experience – as you join a local fisherman to hook your catch, retuning to join Chef for a master-class in how to prepare the perfect fishy feast. Popular for surfing and paddle-boarding too, the groom and his groomsmen might decide to take to the water the morning of the wedding, washing away any nerves and setting him up for the most important day of his life. This also provides a great photo opportunity and memories to last a lifetime.

SITTING PRETTY fabulous chair cover hire

Sitting Pretty are the South West’s premier chair cover specialists and proud provider of chair covers to HRH Queen Elizabeth & Prince Philip

• AWARD WINNING chair covers fit for a Queen

• SITTING PRETTY are the best in the west

e: info@sittingprettysouthwest.co.uk | t: 01752 210015 | m: 07736 945120

www.sittingprettysouthwest.co.uk

D E L E C TA B L E D I N I N G

DINING THE DEDICATED TEAM AT THE SALCOMBE HARBOUR HOTEL & SPA WILL WORK WITH YOU, TO ENSURE THAT YOUR FAVOURITE FLAVOURS ARE INCORPORATED INTO A BESPOKE MENU FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY

D E L E C TA B L E D I N I N G

ward winning Chef Patron Alex Aitken, creates delectable menus for Salcombe Harbour Hotel, working with the Head Chef to source the freshest ingredients, bursting with flavour; ‘We have a very simple food philosophy; keep it fresh, seasonal and local.’ Understanding that your wedding breakfast is no ordinary meal, Alex explains it’s a journey from inception to service:

“We work closely with each couple to create the perfect menu for their special day. Your wedding day is a journey over several months, we aim to make each step fun, building up to a glorious event.” Alex recommends that “your wedding breakfast should be a reflection of you as a couple, from ‘fizz ‘n’ chips’ to traditional threecourse breakfasts, the food should mirror your style and the tone of the day.”

At the Salcombe Harbour Hotel, you can be certain that your wedding breakfast will be delectably tailored to you and your day. The whole team are dedicated to delivering the wedding of your dreams. From discussing themes and décor, to the food and wine and pre decision tastings, we work closely with each couple to create a wonderful day.

COOL COCKTAILS With a spectacular backdrop and private wedding terrace, make the most of your drinks reception with bespoke cocktails and drinks to suit your day. Choose ingredients and create drinks to match your theme and the time of year; we would recommend elderflower in Champagne for spring, Mojitos for the summer months and White Russians in the winter.

BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS

Beautiful

BLOOMS

FRESH AND FRAGRANT, SYMBOLIC OF YOUTH, BEAUTY AND HAPPINESS, DRESS YOUR DAY BEAUTIFULLY WITH FANTASTIC FLOWERS THAT ACCENTUATE YOUR COLOUR PALETTE AND THEME.

hen it comes to wedding flowers, brides are baffled by the variety of beautiful blooms. But with a little help from a friendly florist, you are ensured breath-taking décor and fantastic photos. With such a wide variety available, we take a look at some options when considering the flowers for your big day… Match your flowers to your theme for perfectly pretty décor. Vintage is particularly popular at the moment, with dresses finished with lace, pastel colour palettes and hand finished decorations. Choose subtle ivories, soft textures and muted tones, accentuated by deep greens for eye-catching contrast. Coral roses and freesias are perfect for the bride’s bouquet, or lavender for something more unusual with a delicate colour and scent. Why not accessorise with leftover lace from your dress fitting, or soft white feathers that will catch in the breeze? For your coastal wedding with a seaside theme, blue flowers will instantly convey tranquil waters. Soft blue hydrangeas, nigella and cornflowers are all stunning for your arrangements. A striking alternative is to choose pretty white petals and arrange your flowers with blue ribbon around the stems or vase, reminiscent of pure white foam

atop crashing waves. Accessories such as shells and ropes are also fun and effective to incorporate into your coastal decor. If your idea of wedding day bliss is one surrounded by the simple beauty of a country garden colour palette, choose a selection of soft pinks, greens and creams. Great flowers for this theme are lillies, ammi majus, gerbera, alstroemeria and fragrant narcissi. Or if you dream in bold, bright colours, tulips are widely available, versatile and eyecatching. Why not make use of the exotic colours in statement stems such as bird of paradise flowers or orange anthurium? They are also perfect for a tropical theme. Remember, although brides are lucky that many flowers are now grown in greenhouses and available all year round, it is often wise to consider the seasons when choosing your flowers. Seasonal blooms will often look best and complement the time of year that you wed. Out of season stocks, although available, may be more expensive than their in-season counterparts. In spring, peonies, sweet peas, daffodils and freesias are in season and perfectly pretty. And, for a summer wedding, there is plenty of choice; from romantic roses in shades of white, pink and red, to blousy peonies and

BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS

joyful yellow sunflowers – design your day bursting with colour. Autumn offers warm shades of dahlia and aramanthus, which look fantastic against dark, forest greens. Then winter with its red amaryllis, berried ivy and fluffy pussy willow can offer some very striking displays. With such variety throughout the year, take inspiration from nature and consider seasonal blooms for your wedding day. Once you have chosen your colour palette of petals, don’t forget all the opportunities you have to show off your beautiful flowers. Of course you will carry a bouquet down the aisle, but will you choose a simple hand-tied bunch of your favourites, or a cascading bouquet with flowing flowers? Other options include teardrop designs, a basket of freshly cut stems, an arm bouquet or a simple, single stem accentuated by beads, diamante or ribbon. As you choose, consider your theme, the overall ‘look’ you wish to achieve and, perhaps most importantly, what will make you feel the most comfortable as you walk to meet your soon-to-be husband. Match your own bouquet to those of your bridesmaids and the bridal party, not forgetting the buttonholes. And then think about the flowers you would like at your wedding venue. A dramatic arch of flowers around the door that you enter through gives a stunning first impression for your friends and family (and your future husband if he turns around to look!). Many brides also choose big vases full of flowers, and smaller displays for the ends of pews or rows of chairs, which dresses

BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS

IF YOUR IDEA OF WEDDING DAY BLISS IS ONE SURROUNDED BY THE SIMPLE BEAUTY OF A COUNTRY GARDEN, CHOOSE A SELECTION OF SOFT PINKS, GREENS AND CREAMS. the room beautifully. Remember that your flowers can always be moved to the reception venue, so that you can make the very most of your perfectly designed displays. Table centres can be tailored to your exact wishes from elegant and tall vases to fish bowls with floating petals. Big displays make a grand statement, but remember that it will be difficult for your guests to talk through them. And make sure you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t block out the view of the top table, as all eyes will be on the blissful newlyweds! Flowers can be incorporated into every aspect of your day; with your hairstyle, wedding car, thank you bouquets and even adorning your cake. So make the most of your beautiful blooms for a fantastically floral celebration.

   

A DRESS TO IMPRESS

A Dress

TO IMPRESS FOR THEIR MAGICAL DAY, EVERY WOMAN FANTASISES ABOUT THAT BEAUTIFUL BRIDAL GOWN. WITH A SPECTACULAR RANGE OF DESIGNS AVAILABLE, AND EXQUISITE COLLECTIONS FROM FEATHER-SOFT CHIFFON TO PRETTY FRENCH LACE, IT’S NEVER TOO SOON TO START YOUR SEARCH FOR ‘THE ONE.’

A DRESS TO IMPRESS

s you begin to try on dresses – deciding which style suits you best, which shade of ivory complements your skin tone – don’t let too many opinions confuse you. Especially for your first fitting, take just one or two people whom you trust to be completely honest. Your mum, sister or a best friend is perfect for these early shopping trips, until you’re sure of exactly what you want. The Bridal Box, Torquay offers a relaxed boutique atmosphere ensuring you can have fun whilst choosing your dream wedding dress in an environment that befits the special occasion you are preparing for! With a large selection of bridesmaid dresses in the latest colours and trends and wedding dress sample sizes from 10 to 22 there is something for everyone! Established for nearly 15 years they can offer you free wedding planning help and advice, flexible payment plans, and late night openings. Not to mention an extensive selection of accessories that can be purchased both in store and online. So let curiosity get the better of you… Once you’ve found your dress, all your wedding planning starts to come together as you visualise how you will look on the day. Take a photo of your dress to hair consultations to help select a style that complements the neckline. And when you’ve bought your shoes and wedding underwear, make sure you wear them at dress fittings so that any alterations work perfectly with the rest of your wardrobe. Imagine the expression on your future husband’s face as he turns to see you walking down the aisle in one of these beautiful dresses…

The

Bridal Box

w w w. t h e br i d a l b o x . c o . u k

FINISHING TOUCHES

Finishing

TOUCHES YOU’VE SET THE DATE, BOOKED THE VENUE AND BOUGHT THE DRESS. BUT HAVE YOU CONSIDERED THE INTRICATE DETAILS THAT WILL MAKE YOUR WEDDING DAY PERFECTLY PERSONAL?

he finishing touches make a wedding extra special – a day that will stay in the memories of your guests long after the confetti settles. From the perfect chair covers that tie into your scheme, to chauffeured transport that makes you feel like royalty, you have limitless choices to create an utterly bespoke celebration. Have a look at these ideas for inspiration… ‘Save the date’ cards and invitations are the very first glimpse your guests will have of your magical

day. You want to make a great impression and stunning stationery can say just as much as the message it delivers. Co-ordinating invitations with orders of service, menus and thank you cards, evokes understated sophistication and allows you as a couple to communicate your style and personality throughout the day (and beyond!). Your wedding gown is the princess-dress from your dreams, so on your wedding day make sure you feel every inch the Cinderella-bride. Glow

FINISHING TOUCHES

from top-to-toe with pampered tresses adorned with a tiara, flowers or gleaming pearls. With your hair curled and perfectly pinned, your dress laced up and flower girls ready, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to travel in style to meet your soon-to-be husband. Choose transport that matches your theme and makes your day magical be that a sleek red and roaring Ferrari or classic and vintage Rolls-Royce. The wheels you choose have the power to turn heads and get your guests talking, so some couples choose something a little less conventional â&#x20AC;&#x201C; why not arrive in a vintage VW camper van? The perfect arrival for this relaxed coastal setting. If you really want to wow your guests when they enter your reception venue, chair covers add instant elegance and luxury, transforming the

humble chair from a practical place to sit, to an important part of your dĂŠcor. Use organza or taffeta sashes to transform the venue into your own wedding wonderland, incorporating your chosen colour into every aspect of the decoration. Once your guests have cleared their plates, the cutting of the cake is a photo album favourite, and the cake itself the grand finale of your wedding breakfast. Although classically elegant white-icing tiers are ever popular and beautiful; many couples opt for cupcakes or even cakepops to carry their personality and theme through. We are lucky to have a host of fantastic suppliers on our doorstep here in Salcombe, with all of the finishing touches to make your day truly original. Please see page 66 for our directory of suppliers.

FLOWERS FROM PENELOPE

From small gift bouquets to luxury wedding designs Main Road, Salcombe TQ8 8NA Tel: 01548 844213 Mobile: 07969 750229 Email: ladyp.uk@hotmail.co.uk

SEASIDE SERENITY

Drift away into

SEASIDE SERENITY

RELAX INTO YOUR BIG DAY, AS YOU MAKE THE MOST OF OUR LUXURY NEW HARBOUR SPA…

SEASIDE SERENITY

unken into the cliff side, the new Harbour Spa is lavishly spread over two floors. Featuring five treatment rooms, fitness suite, indoor pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and relaxing pebble room; curl up in a private poolside cabana, reflect in the swimming poolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s submerged seating, or indulge with a pre-wedding pampering ESPA or Harbour Signature treatment. The indoor swimming pool features five immersed seats, with a swimming jet for the more energetic. Climb out of the

pool and into your own private poolside cabana, complete with lighting and privacy curtains. Warm the senses with a number of heat experiences, including sauna and steam room and then disappear into the pebble room, as you let the environment and tranquillity of this coastal retreat take over, with upholstered beds and relaxing water rippling projections and sounds. Ideal for a girly getaway in the build up to your big day, we can create the perfect bespoke package; from twilight

evenings to all inclusive spa breaks, let our experienced spa team tailor an experience just for you. From Champagne Afternoon Tea and Spa treatments to cocktails and canapĂŠs served in The Jetty restaurant, we can offer a host of wonderful ideas. See opposite for a few of our unique packages and watch this space as we introduce a new make-up brand, with on the day preparation packages available at our luxury new hotel and spa.

PURE SERENITY

‘HERE COMES THE BRIDE’

£60pp

PREPARATION PACKAGE – £145pp

Your day will include:

• Pre wedding package – A maximum of 6 people.

• Spa access from 11am till 5pm

• Geleration manicure for the bride • File & Paint for all bridesmaids – Upgrade available to Geleration for an extra £10 ( Making saving of £10). • Eyebrow Shape

• Spa tour on arrival • Total indulgence signature treatment – 120 minutes of pure relaxation • Geleration on hands & feet – 1 hour treatment time

• Express ESPA Facial

• Complimentary slippers, gowns & towels throughout their spa day

• Spa Access

• £25 allowance within the Jetty restaurant

• Why not add a little zing to your package? • English Garden Cocktail & Jetty bites or Canapés – £12.00 per person

‘I COULDN’T HAVE DONE IT WITHOUT YOU’ PRESENT PACKAGE – £85pp Your day will include: • Spa access from 11am till 5pm. • Spa tour on arrival • Invigorating face & body glow treatment – 90 minutes of heaven

• Complimentary slippers, gowns & towels throughout your day • £25 allowance within the Jetty restaurant

Experience...

...a chic new hotel on the edge of Salcombe Estuary, complete with 50 luxury bedrooms, many with private balconies to enjoy the unrivalled views, cinema room, coastal retreat spa, new Jetty restaurant and wide outdoor terraces; all taking in the panoramic vista, overlooking one of the most dramatic

Salcombe Harbour Hotel & Spa For more details or to book please call 0844 858 Visit us online at www.salcombe-harbour-hotel.co.uk

9187

Christchurch | St Ives | Sidmouth | Salcombe

coastlines in the UK...

LOVE THROUGH THE LENS

Love through THE LENS A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND MEMORIES….

LOVE THROUGH THE LENS

our wedding album is a personal story book of your special day, one that you will treasure forevermore and share with generations to come. All that time spent carefully planning the perfect day and then it rushes by so quickly, ensure that you capture every magical moment – from trembling lips to lingering looks of love, with the following guide to creating an album to cherish.

THE ONE Choosing the right photographer for you is essential, and arguably the most important decision for your day; it’s their job to document every joyous moment, preserving memories for you and your loved ones. Booking your photographer is not something to rush into. Start by selecting the style, from the traditional to the more creative and increasingly popular reportage shots, do your research and find ‘the one’. Spend time reviewing their portfolios and make sure that you meet up with them too, it is important to feel comfortable with them. Referrals and testimonials can help to confirm your decision, along with awards and press use. Know your price limit upfront and make sure that you agree exactly what’s included within your package.

WE’RE ENGAGED Engagement photos not only provide you with a set of gorgeous pictures to celebrate your news and share with friends and family (great to use on save the dates too); but they help you to feel at ease in front of the camera; resulting in a picture perfect wedding day, as you feel comfortable and ooze confidence.

FIRST LOOK Capture and savour that special and powerful moment where you first lay eyes on each other, with a ‘first look’ photo session. An increasingly popular trend, modern couples are opting to set up a first look photo opportunity, ahead of the ceremony and away

LOVE THROUGH THE LENS

from the wedding party. Filled with significance and emotion, the first time you lock eyes with your loved one is a tender and intimate experience that can be best captured in private and with more time.

LOVED UP LOOKS You want your hair and make-up to be perfect, achieving a flawless look throughout the day, so make sure that you have a trial first and that you are completely content with the results. It can prove very useful if you take a camera along to your trial too, as some foundations are highly reflective and can appear white on film. Your make-up should last all day, so put it to the test ahead of your wedding; you don’t want to find out on the day that it has faded and you have not looked your bridal best on camera. Ensure that your make-up is waterproof too, and that you take some along for touch-ups on the day.

It’s worth noting that if you choose a high fashion look, this will date quickly – a timeless, natural look can often be a far better choice for your wedding day. Grooms pay attention too; it is advisable to carry a tissue or blotting cloth that can take away the shine, especially if it’s a hot day.

LOCATION When choosing your wedding venue, take into account the locations of where your wedding photography could take place. Consider both in and outdoor options, as you don’t want to pin all your hopes on the great outdoors. Consider lighting and ensure that your photographer visits the venue ahead of the Big Day. Consider props to complement the setting – from wellies in the water to a rowing boat on the Estuary, props are a great way to add some personality and create photos that are truly unique to your day.

CREATE A TIMELINE One of the most useful things you can do to help both the photographer and yourselves is to create a timeline of the day. Decide when and where the photos will take place and schedule in plenty of time, obviously things can change on the day but it is far less stressful to know in advance the running order of the day. A lessstressed bride is a happy bride. And a happy bride makes for great photos.

BRIGHT AND EARLY Always allow for last minute emergencies and start the day at least one hour ahead of schedule, if you run over, you won't be stressed, and your photos can start on time. If you finish earlier, well that just means more photos of a happy bride and groom!

DELEGATE To keep you stress-free and looking great in your pictures, get help. Have someone else take care of things for you, whether it's a coordinator, friend or maid of honor. All questions should be directed to that person. You should be able to just sit back, relax and enjoy your day.

RELAX AND HAVE FUN The best photos are those of a relaxed and happy bride and groom, so just relax and enjoy every second of your special day.

Beautiful memories to cherish for a lifetime

“we absolutely love the photos we’ve spent Saturday morning reminiscing and smiling our heads off! Thank you so much for capturing such happy times!”

Weddings by Scot Baston

07828 606184

www.weddings.devon.photography part of Zooming Feet Photography

H O M E & AWAY

HOME AWAY

ST IVES HARBOUR HOTEL & SPA

fter the excitement of your wedding day, why spend hours in airport departure lounges when Britain is blessed with some of the world’s best honeymoon havens? Offering all of the ingredients for a heavenly honeymoon in the UK, we pay a trip to St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa, Cornwall; overlooking the glistening views of Porthminster Beach. Wile away the days at this famous Cornish retreat, with its mild climate, unspoilt beaches and spectacular coastline. Sit back and relax before sea views, enjoy candlelit dinners and al fresco cocktails on the deck, followed by a blissful night’s sleep to the sound of gentle lapping waves. The hotel sits above Porthmisnter Beach, looking out across the iconic bay and harbour. The perfect place to soak up the views, hours can be spent in complete seaside serenity as you absorb this stunning scenery.

Dine at the hotel’s Terrace Bar & Restaurant, with daily landed seafood and fresh, local and seasonal menus. With an outdoor terrace and unbeatable views from the restaurant, what could be more romantic than dinner for two in this magical setting? The hotel’s luxury Harbour Spa is perfect for newlyweds, with walls of glass to drink in the views, an outdoor sun terrace, indoor pool, steam room, Jacuzzi, sauna and fitness suite – a world of tranquillity and calm awaits you. The hotel is ideally located for exploring St Ives, with its ancient fishing harbour and many boutiques, restaurants and cafes just a short stroll away. Spend afternoons meandering around the town’s maze of winding streets. St Ives is famed for its clear air and outstanding scenery, attracting world class artist for generations. Explore the vibrant local arts scene, which ranges from tiny independent galleries tucked within the cobbled streets,

to The Tate St Ives and Barbara Hepwoth Museum. All are within easy walking distance of the hotel and well worth a wander into town. While visiting, why not take advantage of the spectacular Cornish outdoors? Walk some of the South West Coast Path and take in the outstanding views, book a kayaking or paddle-boarding tour, or if you’re feeling really adventurous – give coasteering a try. There’s an activity for all tastes, right on the hotel’s doorstep. With so many options to tailor the perfect, romantic escape, this UK coastal retreat truly rivals the top honeymoon destinations from around the globe. Put your passport away and start dreaming of a relaxing break in beautiful St Ives.

WWW.STIVES-HARBOUR-HOTEL.CO.UK

H O M E & AWAY

SRI LANKA – INVITE TO PARADISE

he island nation of Sri Lanka is the undiscovered jewel of the Indian Ocean – a honeymooner’s paradise of secluded beaches caressed by azure waters, contrasting with mountainous tea plantations, lush forests and 8 UNESCO world heritage sites. The luxury holiday experts, Invite to Paradise, tailor bespoke holidays to Sri Lanka for your once-in-a-lifetime trip. Owners Reece and Claire lived there for three years and now specialise in designing one-off, luxurious romantic escapes. They explain why Sri Lanka is the perfect choice for your heavenly honeymoon… Your holiday begins when you touch down in Colombo and are greeted by your personal chauffeur, who will stay with you for the duration of your trip. He whisks you straight to your first hand-picked 4* or 5* hotel where your heart will instantly melt for Sri Lankan life. Throughout your trip, every hotel you stay at will be indulgent and unique, with an amazing variety of options all over the island. The staff are always friendly and the surroundings utterly exquisite; from bedroom views over tea hills touching the clouds or beach-front boutiques, to infinity pools stretching over mountainbordered lakes and wold-class dining, these locations offer a supreme hotel experience.

If you dream of complete relaxation after your wedding – a honeymoon set on deserted golden sands with warm seas and limitless cocktails – this island will not disappoint. Surrounded by sandy-beached coast, Sri Lanka is a sun-kissed, year-round destination with an average temperature of 30°C. When one part of the island is in monsoon season, the other is dry, so whenever you plan your romantic escape, you can be sure to find plenty of opportunities to bask on the beach.

After a few days of ultimate luxury on a sun-lounger, as per your pre-planned, bespoke itinerary, your chauffeur will take you to explore deeper and discover some of the exotic wildlife that calls this paradise home. The only place in the world where you can see the two largest creatures on the planet in the same day, the Sri Lankan east coast is home to the biggest animal that has ever roamed on Earth – the blue whale. And at the world famous Elephant Orphanage, set amongst towering mountains and

fringed with palm trees, you are invited to meet the gentle jungle giants as they plod to the river each day – the honeymoon experience of a lifetime. But these enormous animals are just the beginning of Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. Safaris through the forest are unparalleled, with the highest concentration of leopards anywhere in the world, sloth bears, peacocks and wild boar. You will also be sure to meet the local cheeky monkeys in the Cultural Triangle, they may even pay a visit to your hotel!

Your honeymoon in Sri Lanka is not complete without soaking up some of the culture from this fascinating corner of the world. The famous Cultural Triangle is home to ancient cities, with architectural ruins and historic temples. Sigiriya, a true wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site, dates back to prehistoric times. The mountain fortress summits as you climb ‘Lion Rock’ to reach the ruins of a fifth century royal palace, steeped in history with breathtaking views. Returning reluctantly from this tropical paradise, you will begin married life feeling

refreshed and energised. Small enough to travel around, yet offering the diversity of beach, forest, culture, wildlife and luxury, Sri Lanka is a true dream destination to celebrate your love on the trip of a lifetime.

WWW.INVITETOPARADISE.COM