Hot Brands Cool Places - The Wedding Issue 2015

HOT BRANDS COOL PLACES FASHION CULTURE LIFESTYLE

AUG 2015

The Wedding Issue

EDITOR’S LETTER In this month’s issue we are celebrating Weddings!

If you are looking for inspiration, here are some fabulous ideas for planning your special day.

We have features on the following: Choosing Beautiful Accessories for your Wedding Come on in - you are very welcome!

Choosing the Perfect Venue Beyond “I do” Living in Harmony.

We also have a round-up of beauty products selected especially for beautiful Brides!

We have a review of two delicious books: Pâtisserie - William and Suzue Curley From Venice to Istanbul - Rick Stein And finally, if you are looking for a location for your honeymoon we also have our special Honeymoon feature.

Enjoy!!! www.hotbrandscoolplaces.com Picture Credits: Front Cover image © Robert Leveritt for Fiona Cairns www.fionacairns.com Other images throughout the magazine supplied by the various companies, or publishers featured.

Please Note All information about products and services are supplied to us by the individual organizations, or agencies acting on their behalf. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that all information is accurate, it may be subject to change. Please check with individual organizations for the latest information about all events, products, or news items.

Inclusion in this magazine does not imply endorsement by Hot Brands Cool Places. Hot Brands Cool Places does not accept responsibility for the content of any external site.

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VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Van Cleef & Arpels’ solitaire rings collection gives pride of place to unique colored stones that meet the highest standards. The various models – in gold or platinum – are adorned with diamonds, sapphires, rubies or emeralds. The rings amply reflect the enchanted style of Van Cleef & Arpels. Timeless and creative, their forms are drawn from the themes of Nature, Couture, Imagination and the language of love. Stockist Details: Van Cleef & Arpels, 9 New Bond Street, 020 7493 0400 www.vancleefarpels.com

CHARLIE BREAR For the 2015 Bridal Collection, Charlie Brear continues to take inspiration from the most iconic decades of style, flawlessly combining them with her own contemporary aesthetic.

This season the beautifully cut silhouettes are complimented by the layering of soft tulles, chiffons and lace, with accents of exquisite hand-beading. www.charliebrear.com

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NICKI MACFARLANE Nicki Macfarlane is the UK’s leading designer of beautiful flower girl, bridesmaid and pageboy outfits. Nicki has designed many dresses for Royal and society weddings, including HRH The Duchess of Cambridge. All dresses are handmade in England, using the finest fabrics. www.nickimacfarlane.com

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HARRIET WILDE London based, Harriet Wilde designs exquisite designer wedding shoes, the bridal shoes are renowned for style and comfort. The collection of bridal shoes are crafted in ivory satin, metallics, soft kid suedes and lace with matching hand bags www.harrietwilde.com

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LE MU Le Mu is a UK brand specialising in occasionwear and accessories that will excite and delight little girls aged 2-9 years. Instilling natural confidence and style, a LeMu dress is a modern classic with sharp tailoring, comfort and elegance. www.le-mu.co.uk

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BY ELISE

By Elise is a brand synonymous with classic style. The designs are highly wearable, eyecatching and affordable. Each piece makes a statement whether worn day to day or for a special occasion. www.byelise.com

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LITTLE BEVAN Enchanting dresses for flower girls, super cute separates for pageboys, pretty dresses for teens & adults. Inspired by the luxury of vintage fashions, with a delicate touch and fresh appeal – a quintessential English look, produced in the heart of London – clothes to treasure for a memorable day. www.littlebevan.co.uk

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FEATURE

Choosing Beautiful Accessories for your Wedding 10

The dress is chosen, the venue booked, the invitations sent and then the fun begins.

Choosing accessories are those little touches that can really make your day very special.

Accessories can be chosen for the wedding party, or for the venue itself.

Themes/eras When you are planning your wedding it can sometimes feel that the theme has taken over. For your special day it is important to remember that it is your day, and if you want to mix it up you can!

Some of the most magical weddings are relaxed gatherings, with a mix and match approach, with natural flowers, mixed accessories and informal seating.

Whatever choice you make think about the comfort of your guests, however beautiful the table arrangements, is there enough space to sit down easily, will your guests know where to sit, if it is an informal setting, ensure that your family, or more elderly guests can find seats easily.

If you want to recreate an era as your overall theme, use it as a guide rather than an obsession to get every little detail right. So many brides lose sleep over colour schemes, props, and seating plans!

When you are thinking about dressing the tables, be creative, there are many options available to you, from formal and traditional to more informal arrangements.

Choosing Personal Accessories What we love about accessories is the opportunity to incorporate those important things that matter to the bride and groom.

You may be invited to wear a family heirloom, or an item that has particular sentimental importance to your family. It is also something that can be created especially for you, from the flowers to the jewellery for the bride and groom; it is something that should be carefully chosen.

Parents and grandparents can also be involved, for the groom it may be a watch that has been handed down through the generations, for the bride, an antique brooch that can be customized into a cuff, or a necklace that is beautiful in its simplicity.

You may choose to commission your own rings, or other pieces of jewellery with inscriptions that are very personal to you. Always think about lead times if you are commissioning any accessory.

Hair Accessories We asked Louise Sinclair, Founder of Bella Bridal Accessories http://www.bellabridalaccessories.co.uk what are the most popular trends in her accessory collection this season. “This season’s bridal hairstyle is very relaxed, understated, soft and free flowing, to complement this there has been a increase of interest in hair vines, sometimes also called brow bands which can wrap around the front of your head across the brow, or gently bend around the side of your head.

These can also be teamed with delicate sparkling, or pearl, hairpins, that can be strategically placed in any wedding hairstyle. We have also noticed a continued interest in vintage style pieces and jewellery. Some brides are choosing a more formal tiara for the wedding and changing the accessory to a more lighter piece for the evening.

When choosing an accessory as a bride it is always important to bear in mind the style of your dress, the shape of your face, the colour of your hair, and the hairstyle you are planning to use on the day.

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There is also the opportunity to buy matching pieces for your bridesmaids and flower girls that they can keep as a reminder of the day.�

Flowers Flowers are a wonderful part of any wedding, but the options and choices are so amazingly varied, from wonderful constructions that are sculptural in their creation to more natural hand tied bouquets. Again if flowers are an important part of the ceremony for you, think about the time of year when you are planning to get married and what may be available for your florist to include.

Don’t be limited just to flowers, there are many other choices for bouquets, table and church arrangements.

Consider also fragrances and the overall impact on your guests, sometimes less is more, particularly on table arrangements. Flowers can also be a delightful gift for your parents and in-laws and can be a longer reminder of a happy day.

Shoes Choosing shoes can sometimes be an afterthought, but there are some beautiful shoe designers who have created shoes that are a work of art almost as much as the dress itself. Always consider the importance of comfort throughout the day, and have different options available. Again think about the lead in times for bespoke or customized shoes.

Other Accessories On your special day you want to minimize the number of items that you are carrying, but for practical purposes have a pretty small bag that contains tissues, your phone, touch-up make-up and other personal essentials that you can give to your chief bridesmaid or mother to look after for you. This can be a beautiful vintage bag, or something handmade, or part of your something borrowed.

Images courtesy of Bella Bridal Accessories, Harriet Wilde and Sass & Belle

BELLA BRIDAL ACCESSORIES Add that extra special touch of glamour to your wedding day with Bella Bridal Accessories.

We have a wonderful selection of beautiful wedding accessories ranging from vintage style pieces to modern hair vines and so much more. We also have collections perfect for your bridal party such as bridesmaid dresses and party shoes for children. www.bellabridalaccessories.co.uk

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CAPTURE AND KEEP We always ‘capture the moment’ with our photographs...why not capture the moment on personalised engraved charms and keep the memory forever! Individually personalised jewellery - commemorate that Special Event in your life by personalising charms and making them individual to you. www.captureandkeep.co.uk

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REAL FLOWERS Bespoke florists specialising in hand tied arrangements filled with perfumed flowers and aromatic herbs. The Real Flower Company will create glorious arrangements unique to your style, venue and above all budget. Our professional florists will ensure beautiful scented flowers for the most memorable wedding day. www.realflowers.co.uk

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FIONA CAIRNS Fiona Cairns Ltd designs and creates luxury cakes. From celebration and bespoke wedding cakes to tea time treats, there is a cake for everyone. Classically designed with contemporary twists, each and every cake is lovingly hand-made and hand-decorated using only the best ingredients, ensuring that each one tastes as good as it looks. www.fionacairns.com

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ELLA JAMES Shop at http://www.ellajames.co.uk/ for pretty gifts and inspiration - a gorgeous selection of delightful wedding gifts or to dress the table for any wedding. www.ellajames.co.uk

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SASS & BELLE Add a special touch to your big day with Sass & Belle Wedding Collection. Pretty buntings, place cards, tealight holders, rose garlands, hanging hearts, birds and butterflies and even a gorgeous heart shape umbrella, will definitely set the mood for an amazing day! http://www.sassandbelle.co.uk/

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CHH DESIGN Caroline’s exclusive, limited edition designs are entirely hand painted hand have a vibrancy and exuberance that is unique. Each piece from her range in its luxurious gift box, make an original and stunning birthday or wedding present. www.chh-design.com

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GIFT ATELIER The Gift Atelier is an online gift boutique offering original and high-quality accessories and lifestyle gifts for ladies, gents and the home. All gifts are selected for their originality, making it the ideal site to find the perfect wedding gift. www.giftatelier.com

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LSA INTERNATIONAL Find a special gift to enhance the happy couple’s memorable moments with LSA International’s mouthblown glassware and high quality porcelain. Each product is originally designed and crafted from the finest materials, creating a distinctive wedding present they can treasure forever. www.lsa-international.com/

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LINLEY LINLEY is your go-to destination for wedding gifts and home accessories, with fresh, elegant hues and soft textures creating a contemporary style. For 30 years they have been creating exquisite furniture, accessories and interiors that are recognisable by the finest British design and craftsmanship. www.davidlinley.com

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TREASURE TROVE The Treasure Trove is the place to find shabby chic and vintage furniture with a unique style and Free UK Delivery! Lovingly hand painted and sourced by us ‌ why not see what treasures you can find? www.thetreasuretrove.co.uk

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UNIQUEWORKS Treat yourself to some beautiful Uniqueworks Handmade Furniture. Expertly crafted at our small workshops in Pembrokeshire, we use the most delightful hardwoods from British trees such as cherry, elm or oak. Our classic furniture looks and feels gorgeous and will last a lifetime. www.uniqueworks.co.uk

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ZIGGIZIGGI Ziggiziggi has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a brightly coloured accessory for your kitchen or bathroom, a funky gift or something more luxurious then look no further.

View our collections at: www.ziggiziggi.com

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FEATURE

Come on in - you are very welcome!

When you celebrate your wedding, it is one of the most special days of your life, with all your friends and family around you. It would be lovely to create a home with the same feeling of ambiance.

When you are planning the furniture for your home it is usually the result of you either living together and the furniture that you have already chosen together, or it will be the bringing together of two collections.

Having the ability to create inviting seating areas, investing in comfortable and flexible seating, or areas where you can feed people, often means that you need to think about the different rooms in your home and to be creative.

Commissioning a handmade dining table can be a wonderful way of creating an heirloom for the future.

When we interviewed Jake Humphries and Stephanie Smith, Founders of Uniqueworks Handmade Furniture, Stephanie commented, “When you choose something that’s been handmade, I think you really buy into something that has some integrity and has had a craftsperson’s time, skill and knowledge spent upon it. Handmade things have the little idiosyncrasies and ‘flaws’, if you like, which give that item character and appeal.

You can expect good quality and also a degree of individuality - often a piece is being made specifically for you and there’s a certain satisfaction from being involved as your furniture project take shape and then seeing it becoming part of your home.”

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You can also search out vintage furniture and upcycle to create your own unique designs. Going to auctions, or fairs can be exciting and open you up to new opportunities for upcycling.

There are also companies who specialise in creating beautiful one off unique designs.

Increasingly there is the opportunity to find artisans working in all kinds of natural products creating one-off designs that become a talking point, something unique to you and your home.

Ease of entertaining is one factor to consider, everyone has less time these days and so the ability to create meals quickly and easily is important in inviting people into your home.

One area that is always worth investing in is cutlery, china and glassware, as hosts you can create a welcoming experience through your dining table, if you have created delicious food wouldn’t it be wonderful to showcase it with the best laid table?

Equally having interesting kitchen accessories, that are colourful as well as functional, makes preparing the food more fun.

When you visit boutique hotels, or stay in luxury holiday homes, you often find that there are areas in the room, that have a special theme. Creating similar areas in your home, can also be another way of creating a welcoming and interesting look to your home. This may be related to a holiday, quotes that mean something for you, or special collections. Try to avoid a cluttered look, less is always more!

Having people to stay is another way of welcoming people, unfortunately for many, guest rooms can often become a dumping ground for sports equipment, clothes dryers, and other ephemera. Creating a welcoming guest room not only means that you can invite people to stay but it can also create a quiet space that either partner can use, particularly if you add a multipurpose small table and a comfortable chair.

When you are putting your wedding list together try and think about different gifts that can add to the welcoming feeling in your home.

Take a look in our Homes & Gardens Directory to see more examples of ways of creating a welcoming home. http://www.hotbrandscoolplaces.com/the-directory/homesand-gardens.html We also have a fabulous collection of companies in in our latest Homes issue: http://issuu.com/hotbrands/docs/hbcpapril2015 Images courtesy of Uniqueworks, Treasure Trove and Robert Welch.

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ROBERT WELCH Update your home with unique tableware, kitchen accessories and other homeware products – all designed at the Robert Welch Designs studio in the Cotswolds. http://www.robertwelch.com/

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GROHE GROHE is Europe’s largest and the world’s leading single-brand manufacturer and supplier of beautiful sanitary fittings. GROHE’s products offer the ultimate in luxurious styling, with mixers and showers that will suit any bathroom or kitchen, from modern to traditional. www.grohe.com/uk

LOAF Loaf’s gorgeous new Spring/Summer 2015 collection has arrived! Our range includes more than 40 new designs along with our first Little Loafers kids’ collection. With something for every room, our laid back and homey pieces include new sofas, beds, kitchen tables, lighting, rugs, storage and accessories. All of our designs are handmade and our beds and sofas are lovingly upholstered in Derbyshire with more than 80 fabrics by the likes of Designers Guild, Romo and Ian Mankin. Loaf stockist details: www.loaf.com / 0845 459 9937

GLAZEBROOK & CO. Glazebrook & Co. Classic Cutlery for modern living. Finest Stainless Steel designs with alternative dishwasher safe Cream and Black Handle Knives. A perfect wedding gift. For more information visit: www.glazebrook.com Email: sales@glazebrook.com or Tel: 020 7731 7135 Free Sample Service. Delivery Worldwide

HINTLESHAM HALL Beautiful grounds, surrounding a graceful 16th Century Grade 1 listed Country House Hotel.

A warm welcome from friendly efficient staff, showing you through to a sumptuous lounge with a roaring log fires during the winter months, papers to read while you relax on deep sofas with a Traditional Afternoon Tea awaiting you after a stroll in the grounds. www.hintleshamhall.com

BRUISYARD BARN Set in 700 acres, Bruisyard Hall & Barn is perfect for your wedding. With uninterrupted views of Suffolk countryside, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Accommodating both small intimate weddings from 20 people to larger group weddings up to 200 people. www.bruisyardhall.com

Choosing the Perfect Venue

FEATURE

Choosing the right venue for your wedding is one of the most critical parts of planning your wedding.

Today’s brides and grooms have so many choices, but the considerations remain much the same.

Who do we want to invite?

This is one of the most important first stages in any discussion about the venue, identifying the number of guests and where they will be travelling from always has to take priority in planning a wedding. In the early stages it may be difficult to have firm numbers of guests, but it is essential that you have a broad understanding of numbers and where the guests will be travelling from so that you can identify a venue that not only provides a romantic setting for you, but is convenient for the guests who you want to share your special day with you.

Where Other important considerations are the time it may take for your guests to reach the location; this can impact on both your choice of location and the timing of your wedding. Today most people lead very busy lives, however much they may love you, ease of travel to any wedding venue is an important consideration.

Geography also plays an important part, if the bride and groom are from different ends of the country this will have a major impact on the location. Although traditionally the bride may have got married in her local church, today’s brides have often moved away from home to go to university or for their career and so may choose to get married in their work location. If there is an opportunity to combine the wedding and reception in the same venue, or in the same vicinity this can make everyone’s life easier. Increasingly there are some wonderful venues that offer exclusive use of their premises for wedding parties. If you are considering marrying abroad, however romantic this may seem, there are real cost considerations for you and your guests.

When The timing of the wedding also will impact on the attendance, traditionally most people still opt for a Saturday wedding, but you can get married on other days of the week. The main consideration for your guests will be their ability to take time off if they are working, and for parents with school age children this can also present a problem. However during the school holidays this will be easier.

What do you want from a venue?

Above all you want excellent service, it is impossible to underestimate the feeling of relief from a bride and groom when they meet the organisers of a venue and feel that they are genuinely welcoming to the bridal party. If you feel welcomed when you first meet to discuss hiring the venue, and that people have time to listen to your requirements, if the organisers are experienced, and make helpful suggestions, the cost becomes less of an issue because you feel that the overall result will be worth the investment.

Always visit the venue and imagine you arriving on your special day, think about the wedding photographs, have a checklist of questions that covers all the practical aspects of your wedding ceremony/reception.

Here is a starter for 10, do personalise with your own questions: Is there a dedicated member of staff who is your main contact point?

Is there the opportunity for exclusive use of the venue for you and your guests?

What are the numbers of guests that can be accommodated either to stay, or for the reception?

What are the choices and cost of different menus, is there the opportunity to sample beforehand?

Is there a list of recommended suppliers?

Take time to examine the photo opportunities around the venue.

Is there an opportunity for the bride and groom to stay, or to get changed if leaving the venue?

Think about the transfer of guests from the wedding location if not at the venue, car parking / helipad.

If additional space is required, what else is available, marquees etc.?

Ensure that there is insurance cover/licences for wedding, music, bar etcand that everything is confirmed in writing.

If you are getting married abroad and are making arrangements remotely this is even more important.

Image courtesy of The Tythe Barn

THE TYTHE BARN The Tythe Barn, built back in the early 14th Century, provides the most amazing setting where you can create the wedding day of your dreams. With Jamie Oliver’s team as our in-house caterer, we are a small, friendly and dedicated team who are here to help you every step of the way. We listen, we sit down and talk and we are really passionate about getting it right - for you. Arrive with us in the morning and do the whole thing in one place, ceremony - indoor or outdoor, food - whatever you want and party - a civilised affair or a rave. The choice is yours. We’ve even created a unique and exciting place for the bride and groom to stay over...if you can’t bring yourselves to leave! http://www.thetythebarn.co.uk/

UFFORD PARK If you are looking for a wedding venue in East Anglia, look no further than Ufford Park Woodbridge, set in the heart of Suffolk’s most beautiful, peaceful countryside. It’s historic, 120-acre parkland setting offers endless beautiful, natural photo opportunities, elegant reception rooms and dedicated, friendly staff; Ufford Park Woodbridge has everything to make your wedding day dreams come true. We would be very pleased to offer all the facilities to make this a complete wedding venue in Suffolk, especially for you, any day of the week! http://www.uffordpark.co.uk/

NUMBER ONE DART MARINA Number One Dart Marina is an exquisite home in a breath-taking location by the River Dart in Dartmouth, Devon. A stunning combination of views, luxury and style, within a few steps of Dart Marina Hotel & Spa, see more at www.dartmarina.com/numberone

KESGRAVE HALL Step back, relax and indulge at milsoms Kesgrave Hall, a contemporary 4-star hotel with 23 fabulous bedrooms ranging from standard through to the ‘top grade’. Plenty of theatre can be found in the restaurant overlooked by the Engine Room, with head chef Stuart Oliver championing all that is great about Suffolk produce. www.kesgravehall.com

MAISON TALBOOTH Step back, relax and indulge at Maison Talbooth. Twelve individual bedrooms, day spa, outdoor pool (heated to a sizzling 85Ëšall year), hot tub, pool house and tennis court. Guests dine at the award winning Le Talbooth restaurant beside the river Stour, just a minute away by courtesy car. www.milsomhotels.com/maison

BOVEY CASTLE From the moment you arrive at Bovey Castle, you will instantly know that this is the venue for your wedding. As the only five-star hotel and country estate in the county, Bovey Castle is the unrivalled location for a Devon wedding and honeymoon in a Dartmoor setting. www.boveycastle.com

FEATURE

Beyond ‘I Do’ Living in Harmony

If every bride and groom were given a crystal ball would they take the next step of saying “I do?” Entering into a marriage is like any partnership inevitably there will be challenging moments, which will test the strength of any relationship. Traditionally in some cultures an elder in the community, a religious leader, or family member would sit with a young couple and share their wisdom, but where do you go today for advice?

In business there is increasing emphasis on the importance of engagement, making important connections with your customers and employees.

As part of this engagement process businesses are encouraged to think about leadership, teamwork, communications, sharing values, acting with integrity, being authentic, creating the right environment for working together, having fun. Successful and happy marriages are often the result of focusing on the same things. Who is the leader in your relationship? How do you make decisions? Do you play to each other’s strengths, and listen to each other’s viewpoint?

One of the most fundamental parts of any relationship is sharing the same values, it is impossible to over emphasise the importance of compassion, gentleness and caring. You are going to be sharing the most intimate moments in your life with this person and you want someone who will support and care for you.

Do you laugh together? Do you smile when you think of the times you have shared together? As part of the preparation for the wedding and into married life, don’t lose sight of the importance of enjoying each other’s company.

Are you both generous? Not just with money, but with your time and comments. Is this generosity coupled with a balanced view of finances? Sometimes being over generous can result in problems with personal finances. Spending time working out the very real costs of living together and your different contributions can help with the foundation of any relationship.

Do you have separate interests that you both respect? Having a varied and interesting life means that you are not relying on the other person to entertain you. Equally important is maintaining a network of friends and family, it is so easy to neglect others as you settle into married life.

How do you settle arguments? Do you respect each other’s opinions? How well do you know yourself - can you compromise - do you know how to come back from a disagreement? It’s so easy to become resentful, to bear grudges, but for the good of your relationship you need to work this out together.

It’s also important to retain your own sense of identity, and to continue to nurture your own development, in Mindfulness and Meditation, Joseph Emet quotes William Blake, “He whose face gives no light, shall never become a star” and then goes on to say, “Fortunately, many of us go around like fireflies in the night. We’ll recognize others’ light more easily if we are in touch with our own. Feel your light glow with each breath as embers do when we blow on them. Feel your light illuminating your corner of the world, making it brighter” This delightful little book is a great preparation for your future life together, and may it help you to brighten up your corner of your world on your wedding day, and beyond! http://www.amazon.co.uk/ or http://www.souvenirpress.co.uk/

Wedding Beauty Feature Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer For skin that’s beyond flawless and lasts all day, Clinique introduces NEW Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer. A 2-in-1 liquid foundation and concealer, promising full coverage without the weight. Every time.

Complexion perfection.

Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief is an updated formula that elevates performance to extend and prolong moisture for a full 24 hours while taking into account changes in temperature and humidity. http://www.clinique.co.uk/ Estée Lauder Sumptuous Waterproof Mascara The Bold Volume™ Waterproof formula provides all the benefits of original Sumptuous—weightless volume, lift and curl—plus advanced total waterproofing. Ultra light, lash-thickening fibres plump even the most sparse lashes. Lashes are soft and flexible, never brittle or spiky.

Lashes look beautiful in all wet conditions, from steamy humidity to a splash in the pool.

Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick Colour with the power to transform your lips, your look, your attitude.

Intensifies: Saturates lips with high-intensity colour—in one stroke. Lipsculpting statement shades for all skintones. http://www.esteelauder.co.uk/ M·A·C Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation Neither rain nor tears can budge this oil-free watertight product that actually repels moisture from the surface of the face. The formula blends seamlessly on the skin with medium to full weightless coverage and a natural satin finish.

M·A·C Mineralize Timecheck Lotion Infused with nourishing minerals and ingredients that fight against time, Mineralize Timecheck Lotion creates the optical illusion of blurred lines and wrinkles, while helping to shrink the look of pores.

M·A·C Strobe Cream The ultimate quick fix for the skin. Super-powered with potent botanicals; de-snoozes, de-stresses, moistens, freshens and boosts the look of dull, flat or tired-looking skin with a fully loaded vitamin zap and a mega dose of green tea. Brightens and clarifies with iridescent particles and antioxidants. Enhances the effects of light on all skin and in all lighting conditions from sunlight to spotlight. http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/

M·A·C Mineralize Skinfinish A luxurious, slow-baked, velvety soft, domed face powder with a radiant finish. Strategically buff on to add highlights to the high points of the face, or blend. A luxurious, slow-baked, velvety soft, domed face powder with a radiant finish. Features our 77-Mineral Complex and vitamin E. http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/ Crabtree & Evelyn Nail polish A splash of colour gives beautiful, healthy-looking hands a fabulous finishing touch. Our nail polish collection includes 19 gorgeous colours, from neutrals to lights and darks to brights.

They apply beautifully, dry fast, leaving you with a rich, eye-catching colour that lasts.

Crabtree & Evelyn Evelyn Rose Body Cream The ultimate in luxuriant pampering – this rich cream is perfect to smooth on after a shower or bath to lock in moisture. http://www.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk Korres Wild Rose 24 Hour Moisturising & Brightening Cream Wild Rose oil is a natural source of vitamin C which demonstrates significant repairing activity to fine lines and skin colour disorders.

Available to buy online from www.MarksandSpencer.com Korres Jasmine Lip Butter A buttery balm that melts on the lips and offers a shiny, tinted finish. A mixture of Shea Butter and Rice Wax offers deep hydration and softness.

Available to buy online from www.Debenhams.com Korres Japanese Rose Body Milk Moisturising body milk with an exceptional powdery texture. Rich in trace elements that awaken the epidermis, offering an energy boost.

Available to buy online from www.MarksandSpencer.com Korres Japanese Rose Shower Gel Creamy-foam shower gel with a long-lasting moisturising effect. Wheat proteins form a protective film on the skin, maintaining its natural moisture level.

Available to buy online from www.MarksandSpencer.com Elemis Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules Elemis Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules contain the highest concentration of Anti-Oxidant power to help repair the visible signs of ageing and counteract the damaging effects of everyday pollution. http://www.timetospa.co.uk/

Pâtisserie - William and Suzue Curley Synopsis: William and Suzue Curley lift the veil on the fascinating world of the Chef Pâtissier, proving once and for all that creating beautiful pâtisserie in the home kitchen is both achievable and hugely satisfying. Pâtisserie reflects award-winning chocolatier, William Curley’s passion for taking classic recipes and modernizing them with his own innovations.

Pâtisserie is an introduction to the most revered of culinary disciplines. For beginners and the more advanced alike, this is the essential masterclass in pâtisserie and is set to become a classic book on the subject. William and Suzue have always had a long-term ambition to bring pâtisserie to this country as an accessible, affordable yet uncompromising luxury. Their main focus is, of course, to arouse and surprise the taste buds. A pleasure that they hope they can, in some way, bring to everyone, through the recipes in this gorgeous book. http://www.quartoknows.com/books/9781909342217/Patisserie.html Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict This book is absolutely stunning, beautiful photography and mouth-watering recipes. Pâtisserie processes are broken down into a step-by-step guide complete with expert knowledge from this master pâtissier to produce flawless creations every time. A series of basic recipes – covering sponges, creams and custards, doughs, pastry and syrups – will provide a solid foundation in pâtisserie techniques for beginners as well as inspiration for aspiring creative pastry chefs.

A perfect gift for any newlywed couple. We loved it! Highly Recommended!

From Venice to Istanbul - Rick Stein Synopsis: From the mythical heart of Greece to the fruits of the Black Sea coast; from Croatian and Albanian flavours to the spices and aromas of Turkey and beyond – the cuisine of the Eastern Mediterranean is a vibrant melting pot brimming with character. Accompanying the major BBC Two series, Rick Stein: From Venice to Istanbul includes over 100 spectacular recipes discovered by Rick during his travels in the region.

The ultimate mezze spread of baba ghanoush, pide bread and keftedes.

Mouthwatering garlic shrimps with soft polenta. Heavenly Dalmatian fresh fig tart.Packed with stunning photography of the food and locations, and filled with Rick’s passion for fresh produce and authentic cooking, this is a stunning collection of inspiring recipes to evoke the magic of the Eastern Mediterranean at home. http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rick-Stein-Venice-Istanbul-ebook/dp/B010RO56HU/ ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1438869655&sr=1-1&keywords=rick+stein Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict Any Rick Stein travel cookery book always contains the essence of the journey and From Venice to Istanbul is another wonderful example of this.Delicious recipes,coupled with stunning photography makes this a delightful companion to the BBC Two series.

A perfect gift for a couple who like adventure in the kitchen!

Highly Recommended!

BOOKS

The Honeymoon Guide

Image courtesy of Carrier

After all the planning - escape from it all...

ABERCROMBIE & KENT VILLAS Abercrombie & Kent Villas offer a wide range of luxury villas throughout Europe, from French chateaux to Tuscan farmhouses. As well as beautiful properties, we can also help organise the finer things that make your holiday complete with everything from private chefs to local hosts to help you make the most of your honeymoon. www.abercrombiekent.co.uk

CARRIER At Carrier, we have more than 30 years of experience creating luxury holidays. Our holidays are personal, bespoke and tailor-made to the desires of each holidaymaker, and we leave no stone unturned and no detail overlooked, a perfect honeymoon choice. www.carrier.co.uk

ELEGANT ADDRESS PROPERTY GROUP Introducing the Elegant Address Luxury Property Group - a Luxury Property Consultancy providing specialist knowledge, unrivalled British bespoke service and a vast portfolio of hand-picked luxury villas, five star hotels, chalets and apartments for rental and sale within some of the world’s most glamorous, exotic and characteristic locations. http://elegant-addresslpg.com/

BAILEY ROBINSON Bailey Robinson are a British based luxury travel company providing tailor made holidays across hand-picked global locations. Our experts will create a holiday to match your requirements and help you choose the best location for your honeymoon. www.baileyrobinson.com

NEW ZEALAND IN DEPTH Founded by Paul Carberry in 2003, New Zealand in Depth specialise in creating tailormade holidays to New Zealand. Paul has spent more than a year of his life on the ground in New Zealand and offers a genuine personal service, taking the time to understand his clients, their interests and their needs. This is the only way to create a truly bespoke honeymoon experience. www.newzealandindepth.com

QUALITY VILLAS Quality Villas was established back in 1986 by Margaret Rees, the current owner, with a handful of villa properties. Today, with the same attention to detail and regard for only offering the best and most sumptuous properties, all enjoying a ‘wow’ factor of some sort, there are close to 500 villas in the portfolio. www.qualityvillas.com

INNTRAVEL Inntravel specialise in Slow holidays, which reveal the lesser-taken path and offer a truly individual holiday experience. From carefully crafted self-guided walking and cycling holidays, to inspiring winter snow holidays, uncover hidden corners and authentic local experiences along the way. www.inntravel.co.uk

EXCLUSIVE ESCAPES Exclusive Escapes provide you with wonderful villas and boutique hotels all exclusive to them. All their villas offer a ‘hotel-service’ with welcome hamper, daily maid cleaning and car hire. Its coastal programme includes top-of-the-range seafront townhouses and a host of brand new opportunities to explore south west Turkey including the introduction of a new region and the launch of a brand new hotel Alavya, and four brand new super chic coastal villas, and guided trekking on a new long-distance path-the Carian Trail. www.exclusiveescapes.co.uk/

EXPERIENCE TRAVEL GROUP Enriching the lives of the world’s most passionate travellers. Bespoke, luxury experienced based holidays in Asia. Experience is everything! www.experiencetravelgroup.com

HOT BRANDS COOL PLACES www.hotbrandscoolplaces.com