Confeti Summer 2011

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CONFETI SUMMER 2011

Dream Dresses From

Vera Wang Jewel of the Med

Go Retro

With Our Vintage Accessory Guide

Mallorca

EXCLUSIVE

Royal Wedding

INSIDERS’ GUIDE

Wedding

Entertainment Ideas

Exclusive Interview with

the leading name in red-carpet couture

Elie Saab

CONFETI: Spain and Gibraltar’s dedicated wedding magazine


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WWW.SANPATRICK.COM FULL COLLECTIONS AND LIST OF DEALERS AVAILABLE IN OUR WEBSITE

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EDITOR’S LETTER

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Something Old, Something New

ONFETI loves...

Renowned stylist Charlie Brear has brought together her years of experience in the fashion industry to create The Vintage Wedding Dress Company. Showcasing her customers a unique and enviable collection of wedding dresses and accessories, you would struggle to find yourself in more capable hands for the biggest fashion photo op of your life! thevintageweddingdresscompany.com

Posh Graffiti at Reviva

Spell out your romance with these stylish LOVE letters. Reviva is now a stockist of these gorgeous Posh Graffiti letters and hearts by Emma Readnett Bayley. If you have a special word or your initials, Reviva can take orders. Tel. +34 618 021 172 reviva-weddings.com

The Blushing Bride

Woven like the Lady Dior Avenue clutch, this powder brings a new sparkle to the eyes and flatters the complexion with its amazingly natural-looking summer radiance. Dior Nude Glow Healthy Glow Summer Powder. Dior.com

Short & Sweet

2011 has seen a surge of brides changing into shorter dresses in the evening, making it a lot easier to dance the night away. We love this cute, little number by Marchesa www.marchesa.com.

Country Chic

Add a touch of nature to the big day with these ever so cute miniature wooden birdhouses that we spotted at the National Wedding Show. From £3.34 weddingstar.com

A Stroke of Genius

The talented Fiona Dodson of Sweet Things by Fi is captured here hard at work putting the finishing touches to a stunning, contemporary, ivory and bronze, four-tier, damask style wedding cake, which is hand-painted in edible bronze lustre. Tel +34 697 228 088 sweetthingsbyfi.com

The Best of McQueen 2

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Unveiled

Toni Federici believes that while a wedding dress may make a woman feel beautiful, the right veil and headpiece truly make her a bride. Her high-profile designs have received notoriety, appearing on celebrities such as singer Carrie Underwood and actress Alicia Silverstone. brownsfashion.com

Knuckle-duster lace-covered satin clutch, €1,501

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Resin leaf silk-satin peeptoe pumps, €1,050

Embroidered duchess-satin gown, €9,395 Stockist - net-a-porter.com

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ONFETI loves... Think Pink

We are loving the burlesque wedding theme that has gone from strength to strength this year. This gorgeous cake aptly named Oh là là, would be a definite highlight. The three or four-tier cake can be flavoured to your requirements (chocolate, vanilla, pink lady, etc). Price: €5.50 euros per serving. Tel. +34 693 379 397 cakecouturemarbella.com

A Touch of Sparkle

Check out these adorably dreamy place settings! The fantastically sparkly, glass place card holders are perfect for adding a glamorous touch to your table. Each glass gem is hand cut and faceted like a brilliant diamond. talkingtables.co.uk

Go With the Flo

How cute is the inspiration behind accessory brand Flo & Percy? Florence and Percy were married for 80 years and held the record for the longest marriage in the world. May the Flo & Percy piece you purchase bring you the same luck, health and happiness that they shared. floandpercy.com

Making a Statement Best Foot Forward

These sexy and flattering peep toe shoes, offer a chic and sophisticated look. We love the handmade flowers made from beautiful duchess silk. Freya Rose shoes are typically small for their size and we recommend taking the next half-size up from your normal size. £290.00 freyarose.co.uk

Snap This

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After taking the UK by storm, it has finally made its way to Spanish shores. Without doubt the most fun way to capture your guests having an awesome time in the Spanish sunshine is with the fun PhotoBooth. Your guests can take as many pictures as they like to share on Facebook. Better still, supply some fancy dress items and let the hilarious images commence. The popular photobooth service is available for 2011 and 2012 weddings from jeremystandley.com

Follow the lead of Best Actress winner Natalie Portman by opting for statement earrings and a simple up do at the Screen Actors Guild Awards. Thumbs up for the yellow diamond drop earrings by Tiffany & Co. tiffany.com

Whispering Sweet Nothings

Whether you opt for cupcakes, mini cakes or even macaroons, stack them up on this decadent 1960s Ice Queen silver, ornate cake stand, for a touch of glamour at your dessert table. £35 itsvintagedarling.com


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Photo courtesy of Ellis Bridals

Fashion

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WHITE Hot See the latest collections straight from the runway

M aggie S ottero Maggie Sottero is one of the most recognised and sought after bridal gown manufacturers in the world. The 2011 collection is chic, sophisticated, well-cut and minimally adorned with billowing skirts caught up in soft folds of tulle and organza. Chiffon is the epitome of romance in her gowns, where feminine, floral accents abound, cascading across oneshouldered designs. At Maggie Sottero timeless traditions partner drama and diversity. Images Courtesy of The National Wedding Show 14 CONFETI

maggiesottero.com


S tewart Parvin Inspiration for the latest Stewart Parvin collection came from a by-gone era of charm. He featured embellishment, draping and fabulous new fabrics whilst staying true to the fit and structure, for which he is famous. Influenced by 1950s couture fashion and the timeless elegance of Grace Kelly, Parvin’s chic, wearable collection is sophistication at its finest. stewartparvin.com Stewart Parvin @ White Gallery London (whitegallery.com) CONFETI 15


B lue by E nzoani The 2011 collection from this renowned LA fashion designer boasts his trademark attention to detail and gorgeous cuts. Blue by Enzoani is a chic and sophisticated collection that proves less really is more. Subtle embellishment and sumptuous, flowing fabric make these dresses the perfect choice for brides wanting something extra special.

benjaminroberts.co.uk Images Courtesy of The National Wedding Show 16 CONFETI


V era W ang The Fall 2011 collection emphasised extreme volume and languid draping, with each gown looking more ethereal than the next. Hand-draped pleating along the necklines, Chantilly lace, blossom skirts, horsehair trims and wispy organza all graced the runway. Vera Wang wedding dresses are produced only from the world’s most exquisite fabrics for brides who appreciate couture.

verawang.com

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Bejewelled

By Caisie Dilks

T

he royal wedding has inspired us all, and millions of brides are putting the finishing touches to their summer weddings. Undoubtedly, the most important part of the wedding is the dress, but of course, all those special accessories that make the bride look like a princess are also crucial to the final look. While bridal trends tend to stay relatively classic and timeless, there are certain trends that can take centre stage in transforming your look from pretty to perfection. 2011 bridal trends are elegant and glamourous, reflecting the royal nuptials and high fashion, and there is no better way to achieve this elegant ideal than with stunning accessories. Generally, oversized statement jewellery has taken a step back behind smaller, more precious pieces. It’s not about too much bling and loading up on diamonds, but more about selecting significant and thoughtful pieces. “Something old” takes a new meaning in 2011,

The Georgina headband: £160 floandpercy.com 18 CONFETI

and wearing vintage jewellery or vintage-inspired pieces is a beautiful way to decorate your ensemble. For example, wearing a pendant or brooch that belonged to his grandmother assists in the “something old”, while adding a whole new level of meaning to accessorising. Hair jewellery, such as clips, combs and tiaras, is another key piece of bridal jewellery this year. It can transform a simple chignon into an elegant bridal hairstyle, and can turn a casual ponytail into a weddingworthy look. There are simple rules on where to begin and how to choose your jewellery, and the age-old rule is to use your engagement ring as your guide. Vintage jewellery is excellent because it provides a great deal of variety, while always maintaining an element of preciousness. Not only that, but vintage jewellery can help add your own unique style to your wedding day, with one-of-a-kind pieces allowing you to be original.


1950s Bridal Flower Necklace, £65 Ebuni

Aurelie Bidermann Vintage silver-dipped lace cuff Net-a-porter

Edwardian hair pin, £18 Chez Bec

Nahla mini comb, £42.99 Olivier Laudus

Vintage engagement ring, from £3250 Boodles

Vintage starlet head band, £68 Glitzy Secrets

The Hepburn earrings, £55 Emma Hadley

Vintage bridal brooch in silver filigree, £35 Beady Eyes Designs CONFETI 19


Fairytale Duchesse / bespoke fully ÂŁ7,345

Aisle Style Any modern bride who wants to stay ahead of the trends will love these stunning shapes with beautiful detailing, soft layers and ruffles, modelled by the beautiful Kirsty Gallacher.

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Rapture Stretch crepe / beaded £2,790 Unbeaded £2,390 CONFETI 21


Adore Taffeta £2,740 22 CONFETI


Eternity Satin / Lace ÂŁ2,890 CONFETI 23


Sweetheart Duchesse Satin ONLY £2,790 24 CONFETI


Enchanting Taffeta ÂŁ2,390 CONFETI 25


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Stockist: www.suzanneneville.com

Forever Crepe/Georgette ÂŁ2,690


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December Advert

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individual, unique... just like you wedding apparel • accessories • planning

fionasantamaria wedding apparel by appointment only . . . 636865154 fisantamaria.com birnas wedding dress , veil and tiara created by fi santamaria


Make Your H2B Swoon

Justin Alexander creates affordable, couture bridal gowns that have an accent of glamour, drama and luxury. Justin Alexander’s international design team pays close attention to detail; and the results are sophisticated, elegant bridal gowns. justinalexanderbridal.com

Bold & Beautiful

Peter Langner is an internationally renowned designer who prides himself on his impeccable cut, beautiful fabric and a love of detail. In 1991, he opened his own atelier in Rome where he remains today. brownsfashion.com

Create Maximum Impact Bruce Oldfield, one of the world’s leading fashion designers, has done it again with the sumptuous “Gloria”. This ultra-feminine design is the ultimate bridesmaid’s dress. Team with silver sling backs and chandelier earrings. bruceoldfield.com

It’s all in the Name

The perfect bridesmaid thank you gift, especially if you have been a bit of a Bridezilla. Made popular by Sex and the City, this 18ct gold-plated sterling silver necklace makes a unique and personal present. jewellerypersonalised.co.uk

The White Zone Our fashion team’s pick of what’s hot for brides and their maids

A Feminine Silhouette

Bridal underwear is as important as the gown itself when you are getting married. It is vital that you look and feel beautiful on your special day, all day. We love this Chantelle’s Eternalle Milk collection. Basque €160, Briefs €39 brownthomas.com

Love It, Buy It!

If tiaras are not your thing, why not try a bridal fascinator? This white flower version from Accessorize is bang on trend without breaking the bank. €47 accessorize.com

Shoes That SPARKLE Miu Miu gold peep toe. €395 brownthomas.com

Gucci crystal embellished sandals. €895 net-a-porter.com

Swarovski crystal shoe. £263 perditasweddingshoes.co.uk

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Theme your day Bottega Veneta Knot intrecciato satin clutch, €800 net-a-porter.com

Deep blue synthetic tanzanite ring, £160 dominicwalmsley.com

Bouquet of ivory vendela roses and avila freesia, €75 reviva-weddings.com

Seaside allure ring pillow £30.22 weddingstar.com

Floral fantasy wedding invitation, p.o.r ananyacards.com

Asymmetric rose detail ruched dress, £49.99 tkmaxx.com

Something Borrowed, Something...

nigelrayment.co.uk

Blue earrings, £32.99 olivierlaudus.com

Blue

A versatile choice of colour for your wedding theme that gives a feeling of elegance, extravagance and, most importantly, an air of calm.

Antigua fascinator £79.99 jacques-vert.co.uk Silver rose tiara comb, highlighted with tanzanite blue Swarovski crystals, €80 fisantamaria.com 30 CONFETI

Bespoke Cupcakes, 693 379 397 cakecouturemarbella.com

Vintage flower print favour box, £0.40 andallthingsnice.net

Navy satin platform bow shoes, £39.99 perditasweddingshoes.co.uk

Three tier sponge cake with fresh roses and royal icing detail, €295 (not including flowers) deliciouscakesandtreats.com



Our Bride & Joy The whole world watched with bated breath, as Catherine Middleton stepped out of the car and we finally got to see “The Dress”. With comparisons to the late Grace Kelly, she looked every inch the Princess. In this exclusive feature, Confeti has managed to hunt down “Team Kate”, to find out about the inspirations behind her look

The dress

Sarah Burton, Creative Director at Alexander McQueen, made the following comments regarding her role as designer of Catherine Middleton’s wedding dress:

“ It has been the experience of “ The last few months have been a lifetime to work with Catherine Middleton to create her wedding dress, and I have enjoyed every moment of it. It was such an incredible honour to be asked, and I am so proud of what we and the Alexander McQueen team have created. I am delighted that the dress represents the best of British craftsmanship. Alexander McQueen’s designs are all about bringing contrasts together to create startling and beautiful clothes, and I hope that by marrying traditional fabrics and lacework, with a modern structure and design we have created a beautiful dress for Catherine on her wedding day.”

very exciting and an incredible experience for my team and I as we have worked closely with Catherine to create this dress under conditions of the strictest secrecy. Understandably, Catherine has been very keen to keep the details of her dress a secret, which is every bride’s prerogative, and we gave an undertaking to keep our role confidential until the day of the wedding.”

“ Catherine looked absolutely stun-

ning today, and the team at Alexander McQueen are very proud of what we have created. The dress was just one component of a spectacular day, and I do not think it is appropriate to comment any further beyond saying that I am personally very grateful and honoured to have been given the opportunity to work on this project, and I wish TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge every good wish for the future.”

The Hair Richard Ward was one of the hairstylists behind the Demi-Chignon style created for HRH Catherine’s wedding.

“ James Pryce and I created

the demi-chignon – a classic half up-half down style. We personally named the style for Kate’s day. Kate briefed us that the total look was to be “romantic” and so we created three mood boards with varying looks. She selected two or three looks and we worked together to perfect the style she wore on the day. Although we had no idea what the dress looked like until the very day,

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Kate shared with us the style of the neck line and this enabled us to create a look that complemented the dress on the day. The hair was swept away from the face to complement her features and pinned back. The tiara and veil were very much the focal point of the hairstyle. Her chestnut, long hair was styled in soft waves and curls, and positioned behind the shoulders to allow the detail of the dress to be shown. ”

The Jewellery

Kate’s earrings were diamond set, stylised oak leaves with a pear-shaped diamond set drop and a pavé set diamond acorn suspended in the centre. Inspiration for the design comes from the family’s new coat of arms, which includes acorns and oak leaves, and the earrings were made to echo the tiara. The earrings were commissioned by Miss Middleton’s parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, and have been given to their daughter as a wedding present.

“ Robinson Pelham is greatly hon-

oured to have been asked to design and make the jewels for the Middleton family, and is delighted to be part of such an exciting and historic occasion. All of us at Robinson Pelham wish Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge all the happiness for their future lives together.”


The Bridemaids The four bridesmaids, Lady Louise Windsor, The Hon. Margarita Armstrong Jones, Grace Van Cutsem and Eliza Lopes followed Catherine up the aisle of Westminster Abbey wearing ballerina length, box pleated, full dresses made of ivory silk satin gazar, layered over organza, wild silk and generous petticoats. The edges were hand finished with an English lace trim. A wild silk, gold sash was tied in a sumptuous bow at the back while beautiful pleated, lace trimmed puff sleeves completed the look.

“ I am thrilled and honoured to have

been asked to design the bridesmaids’ dresses for the Royal Wedding. ” said Nicki Macfarlane.

“ I hope the children enjoyed wearing the

dresses as much as I have enjoyed making them. I couldn’t be more proud to have been part of this wonderful day.”

Y

ou can forget all the other bridal trends for 2011. There will only be one trend – Catherine Middleton. With this in mind we asked some of the UK’s leading names in the world of fashion and beauty to tell us what they thought of her choices and how we can recreate this look.

The Gown Suzanne Neville

“ It was a magnificent gown – truly

fitting for a future Queen. Kate Middleton’s choice of gown had a real Grace Kelly, Princess Bride feel to it. She chose a classical style, which suits her look and personality perfectly. The simple corseted bodice showed off her beautiful, slender figure and the intricate, delicate lace gave it an air of regal elegance. The dress really captured the essence of Britishness, created using historic crafts and the finest British fabrics. I love the fact it incorporated traditional, embroidered

lace, which was hand embroidered in Hampton Court Palace. Hopefully this will help resurrect the once flourishing British lace and embroidery industry. Whilst this gown will provide a huge amount of inspiration for a generation of brides, the design is something which is already a

popular choice. The gown is very similar to one of the styles already designed in my new Nostalgia collection, due to launch at the end of May at the Tower of London. The Classical gown from my current collection has a similar feel, using beautiful, luxurious lace over a simple, beautifully fitted corset. ”

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“ I think Kate’s dress was beauti-

Justin Alexander Creative director - Tony Mentel

ful and perfect for the occasion. The skirt had the perfect amount of volume and moved so well, and the bodice and sleeves fitted to perfection, without a single wrinkle and truly sculpted her waist. I like the traditional feel of the gown, which was timeless and elegant, combined with the modern clean lines. The dress will never date and will stand the test of time. ”

Sassi Holford At the beginning of the year Sassi designed a new collection of gowns, which debuted at the Designer Wedding Show in February. One design in particular “Grace”, represented the style of gown Sassi envisaged Kate Middleton would choose. Since the wedding, this gown has attracted an enormous amount of attention because of the striking similarities that underline Sassi’s royal credentials, having designed Autumn Phillips’ wedding gown.

“ Never before has a wedding gown

John Rocha

“ I think Sarah Burton did an

amazing job. Kate Middleton was truly radiant in a beautiful, ivory silk and lace dress worn with a delicate, silk tulle veil of embroidered flowers. The whole wedding party looked fantastic, the bridesmaid and the flower girls. It was a wonderful celebration ”

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design been so anticipated and the overall vision did not disappoint – it was simply breath-taking. The bodice had to have structure and was very flattering but the addition of panniers to exaggerate the hips was a very clever touch to accentuate her waist. The beautiful, full length, lace sleeves brought a really vintage-glamour feel to the design as did the exquisitely embroidered skirt. Whilst the train was shorter than some previous royal weddings, I think the box pleats really emphasised Catherine’s own style: classic, demure and gorgeous. She looked truly stunning.”

Ben deLisi “

Kate looked exquisite. Her look was very glamorous, yet elegant and polished. The dress was beautiful and didn’t lose her own individual style, while the skirt and train were the perfect length for the venue.”


“ Katherine’s dress was the epit-

ome of English elegance. Kate chose the ideal dress shape for her figure and looked at once both modern and timeless. The beautiful lace was perfect for the design and the occasion. The stunning, long train was the perfect choice for the Abbey but was cut in a way which was not at all overwhelming or fussy. A perfect choice. ”

The Make-up

Alan Hannah Creative director - Marguerite

Bobbi Brown

Every woman should feel like royalty on her big day. Here’s how to create a royal-worthy wedding look courtesy of Bobbi:

1 2 3 4 5

Start with clean, fresh skin. Even out skin tone with corrector, concealer and foundation. Sweep Ivory Eye Shadow all over the lid. Apply Rockstar Metallic Eye Shadow on the lower lid. Blend Slate Eye Shadow into the crease.

6 7 8 9

Brush on two coats of Black No Smudge Mascara. Smile and sweep Pale Pink Blush on the apples of the cheeks. Dust Pink Quartz Shimmer Brick high on the cheekbones. Apply Sandwash Pink Lip Colour on lips, followed by Crystal Gloss.

Line upper and lower lash lines with Black Ink Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner, making sure that the top line is thicker than the bottom.

“ Catherine looked absolutely stunning. I wouldn’t have changed a thing about her make-up. She looked beautiful, fresh and most importantly, happy. ”

The Jewellery

Olivier Laudus

Creative director - Sangeeta

“ We thought Catherine Mid-

dleton looked every inch the perfect princess and we think she got her look absolutely right! The Cartier Halo tiara, her ‘something borrowed’ (from her grandmother-in-law, the Queen) complemented her dress beautifully with its pear-shaped detailing and framed Catherine’s pretty face perfectly. We were pleased

to see she chose drop earrings, as they added some length and it was lovely to see how they held a personal significance for her with the little acorns in the centre to echo her new family crest. To recreate Catherine, now the Duchess of Cambridge’s iconic look, choose a tiara shape that fits well with the curve of your head using height if you want to elongate your face shape and keeping it low if you have an oval face like she does. Teardrop or pear-shaped earrings with crystal or pearls add a lovely

softness to the overall look and keep it elegant. Here are some pieces from our collection to help you create your own princess-styled look on your wedding day. ”

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Striking bridal design at

White Gallery London L

eading fashion capital, London plays host to White Gallery London, May 22-24 2011, where the world’s most exclusive press and wedding wear retailers will have the opportunity to see the very best in bridal design at the three-day event. We are proud to announce that Confeti Magazine is an official media partner at this prestigious event.

Since its launch in 2010, White Gallery London has attracted the finest names in British bridal design and leading collections from the top international fashion houses. Enticing visitors and media from across the globe to what has been acknowledged as

Ugo Zaldi Amanda Wakeley Sposa will preview her new 2012 collection, presenting a supremely luxurious range of dresses that are injected with fresh new shapes and contemporary fabrics. Amanda Wakeley Sposa designs celebrate brides who are timelessly chic and utterly modern. Contrasting the drama of crisp double satin and silk mikado through to soft, silk georgettes, tulles and jerseys, the collection caters to all types 36 CONFETI

one of the key events in the bridal buying calendar for top-end retailers, White Gallery London now moves into its second season. Over 40 top designers will unveil their 2012 bridal collections, including Alan Hannah, Amanda Wakeley, Anoushka G, Blue Bridalwear, Claire Pettibone, Cymbeline, David Fielden, Gemy Couture Bridal, Hollywood Dreams, Ian Stuart, Jesus Peiro, Johanna Hehir, Lea-Ann Belter, Lyn Ashworth, Lusan Mandongus, MKarin, Matthew Williamson, MyLady, Olivia Couture, Pepe Botella, Polly Edwards, Ritva Westenius, Sassi Holford, Stephanie Allin, Stewart Parvin and Ugo Zaldi.

Ian Stuart of weddings whether they are set in a cathedral or on a beach at sunset. Embellishment, folds and drapes complement the silhouette. An emphasis on enhancing the body comes from clever draping and contoured panelling. Shapes are defined but not confined, always with a luxurious use of fabric, perfection of cut and attention to craftsmanship.

Stephanie Browne

Sassi Holford David Fielden is widely regarded as one of the most creative bridal designers on the international stage, and his gowns have been chosen by celebrities including Julia Roberts, Kate Moss and Kelly Osbourne, to name a few. David creates the feminine, classical yet playful dresses that fashion-aware women crave. David Fielden will be showcasing both his bridal and eveningwear collection. Expect to see signature gowns that

are structured yet soft, romantic and floaty in slinky satins. Cutout work and soft, fuller skirts with embellished bodices will be key features. Gemy Couture designer Gemy Maalouf takes the values of modern women who are extremely driven and ambitious, and translates them into contemporary fashionable wedding dresses. The collection debuts distinct styles with


David Fielden

Gemy Couture Bridal

modern silhouettes, gorgeous fabrics, top-of-the-line fit and finish, soft embellishments and crystal beadings. The beautifully designed gowns are focusing on bringing style and luxury through the use of different fabrics such as lace, silk, chiffon, silk organza, silk georgette, silk satin and special embroidery. Cutting-edge, multi-award winning designer Ian Stuart will present his new collection at White Gallery London. Inspired by leading ladies of iconic musicals, the collection epitomises the unique, dramatic style that Ian Stuart is renowned for. A variety of silhouettes and shapes will be shown in fabrics such as silk taffeta, silk tulle and silk organza with unique embroidery and decoration. “Guests at White Gallery London can expect an emotional catwalk show that celebrates the true romanticism of the bridal gown.” Jesus Peiro’s 2012 collection is inspired by The Orient Express and a journey from the East to the West. Expect to see different silhouettes including big skirts with ruffles of tulles and gauzes, A-lines shapes with high waists to enhance the figure, to pencilslim lines with minimal draping and fitted sleeves. Halter necks and embroidered belts add definition, but it is the detail that creates the real personality – scissor cuts, zigzag finishing and the partial overlapping of fabric that is synonymous with the Jesus Peiro signature style. The colour palette is highly specialised with luminous tints over clear, camellia-white. Jesus Peiro comments, “White Gallery is a growing and very important fair because it focuses on a high

Lusan Mandongus

Jesus Peiro

quality product in a suitable setting. I am sure that it will continue to grow in importance internationally.” Lea-Ann Belter has been committed to elegant simplicity in design since the beginning. Sophisticated lines and understated details distinguish her gowns from the ordinary. LeaAnn Belter is quality conscious and oversees the workmanship herself. Expect to see handsewn pearls, Austrian crystals and soft, delicate embroidery for seductive elegance. Beautiful silk brocades and softly coloured dupioni silks, designed by Belter herself, dominate the collection. Lusan Mandongus is a name synonymous with classical elegance. The designer has been creating gorgeous bridal gowns since 1991 with a passion to design every girl’s dream for her wedding day. Catering especially for women with an appreciation of high-fashion style and couture-esque finish, the designs reflect the romance of the day and the feminine spirit of the bride. After the success that MKarin has received from bridal buyers all over the world, her new collections will be unveiled at White Gallery London, confirming her position on the bridal market today. Her creations will branch into three different segments: Maria Karin Couture – extremely detailed designs for sophisticated, trendy brides; Maria Karin – romantic chic with precious laces, sumptuous silks, embroidered with pearls and Swarovski crystals; and Patrizia Ferrera – focuses on young,

Penrose dynamic brides who are more price-sensitive. Matthew Williamson will launch his first bridal collection, which will be showcased in a glamorous catwalk show. The inspiration for this range comes from the designer’s previous ready to wear lines, which translate beautifully into bridal wear. Expect to see long and short corset column gowns that create lean, structured silhouettes and are softened with artfully

draped overlays of soft, ivory tulle. Jewel-embedded mink and rabbit fur cropped shrugs have been designed to complement the stunning look and add a real sense of luxury. Sassi Holford has returned to the 1940s with fabrics that are unashamedly romantic and very much about luxurious textures, such as slipper satin, vintage lace and silk georgette. Dramatic skirt shapes are also CONFETI 37


Stewart Parvin

Pepe Botella

MKarin

Lea-Ann Belter

MKC201203

very important to emphasise the beauty of the female figure. Holford states, “The creativity of British bridal design has long needed the right platform to be recognised internationally. White Gallery London delivers the time and the place for this to happen.” Stewart Parvin’s bridal collection features fantastic, corseted structure, clean silhouettes and the best quality fabrics. All Stewart Parvin gowns are created in England by a team of bridal specialists, ensuring the highest quality of construction and fit. The collection encapsulates Stewart’s aesthetic, which is understated, modern and chic. Stewart comments, “The 2012 collection is a sumptuous selection of covetable gown, princess line skirts, and waist-cinching ruching to ensure the perfect silhouette for the modern bride. Also on the catwalk this year will be dramatic fishtail silhouettes in sequined lace and tulle.” Always glamorous and always contemporary, the collection from royal couturier Stewart Parvin was inspired by Café Society from the glamour of Boulevard de Paris in the late 60s to the late 70s with the disco chic of Studio 54.

Amanda Wakeley Sposa

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Ugo Zaldi’s 2012 collection incorporates five themes: Hollywood Glamour, Romance, Bohemian Chic, Haute Couture and Rock ‘n’ Roll. Dresses are constructed entirely from silk using floaty mousseline, draped crepe, French lace and slinky silk satin with embellishments of Swarovski crystals and pearls. Ugo Zaldi’s untraditional approach to bridal wear makes his dresses perfect for city, beach or church weddings.

Babe, Halo & Co, Harriet Wilde, Ivory & Co, Katzi Jewellery, Penrose, Polly Edwards, Rachel Simpson Shoes, Stephanie Brown Australia and Vivien Sheriff Millinery are some of the fine accessories designer labels exhibiting at White Gallery London 2011 – some of them will produce a limited capsule collection for this event’s select audience. Penrose is the first Italian lingerie designer to produce a collection dedicated exclusively to brides. The iinvisible and soft bodysuits, corsetry, bras, slips, hosiery and sets, made of precious fabrics and styled by exquisite tailoring in sophisticated white and ivory colours take wedding lingerie to a new level. A combination of classic and modern styles co-exists in unique collections of fashionable undergarments that are created to ensure each bride embraces a young and modern look for their wedding day. Penrose will also be previewing its bridal footwear collection featuring a selection of luxurious silk and satin creations.

With over 20 years’ experience in creating some of the world’s most exquisite couture bridal jewellery, Stephanie Browne has a reputation for unsurpassed craftsmanship and creativity. She will present a range of elegant couture jewellery from her signature line, including stunning necklace and earrings sets with delicate bracelets and brooches to match. Stephanie Browne will also present bejewelled fascinators and tiaras; the collection extends to the most intricate detailing on divinely styled hair combs and slides. For men, there are beautiful cuff links and buckles. Highlights of the range include head-turning feather hair accessories and bejewelled headbands, with each design reflecting originality and beauty. Every piece is guaranteed to become a treasured possession. This year, White Gallery London will introduce a small group of talented, young UK designers who the organisers and existing exhibitors believe, are poised for critical and commercial acclaim, they include: Elizabeth Stuart, Terry Fox, Tobi Hannah, Sanyukta Shrestha, Sarah Janks and The Vintage Wedding Dress Company.

WHITE GALLERY LONDON 2011 FASHION SHOWS Sponsored by Condé Nast Brides, the shows will take place during May 22 and 23. There will be invitation-only catwalk shows from: Alan Hannah, Ian Stuart, Matthew Williamson, Stephanie Allin and Stewart Parvin. White Gallery London will also stage the Designers’ Preview Show 2011 featuring key pieces from the collections of Blue Bridalwear, Hollywood Dreams, Johanna Hehir, Lea-Ann Belter, Lusan Mandongus, MKarin and Sharon Bowen as well as the New Talents Preview Show. For more information on attending or exhibiting please visit: whitegallery.com



SeNcoOnNdE TO K

nown as one of the most influential and highly-regarded designers of our time, Elie Saab´s luxurious evening looks and opulent wedding gowns are favoured by princesses and Hollywood stars alike. The Lebanese couturier talks exclusively to Nicola McGeorge about his secret love of minimalism, his inspirations and, of course, Halle Berry and

THAT dress.

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I became a designer because… I was born with this passion for creating and making dresses. I was always surrounded by beautiful women, from my sisters to my neighbours, so the desire to dress them and make them look elegant and stylish was my constant inspiration. My passion then developed into a career and I continued with the custom-making of high-end dresses, which I love doing.

I specialise in… Haute couture. That said, I design a wedding dress for each of my haute couture collections, which always closes a season’s show. Designing haute couture bridal gowns gives me great pleasure, as they are worn on the most special occasion of a woman’s life. I enjoy sharing the joy and satisfaction of my client, and helping her make her dream come true.

I am best known for… Dresses which are feminine, refined and elegant.

I am very proud to… Have been invited by the Chambre Syndicale, the governing body of the French fashion industry, to show my haute couture and ready-to-wear collections in Paris – the capital of haute couture. However, we still have many things to accomplish with the Elie Saab brand, which is constantly developing.

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I am inspired by… Women in general, regardless of their age, shape or size.

The haute couture Spring / Summer 2011 collection was… Designed for a woman of both character and fragility in mind. A woman who shines – and asserts herself. It featured delicately embroidered lace, organza, chiffon and tulle, in colours such as tea-rose pink, mauve, raspberry, aniseed green and stone. I sharpened the silhouette by designing a defined waist, belted with grosgrain ribbon, and high-cut necklines. I wanted to create a new aesthetic that underscored a regal demeanour, whilst also remaining carefree.

My future ambitions are… Launching our first fragrance in July with Beauté Prestige International, which is directly inspired by the haute couture division of the brand. Our strategy is to expand the diversity of the products we offer by developing new lines that will allow us to reach a larger audience of women than our existing customers. Our focus is to continue our expansion into international markets in the years to come. By the end of 2015, hopefully, we will have a store in Asia (Beijing or Shanghai) one or two in the States (Los Angeles and New York) and one in Moscow. And we will have launched another fragrance.

My average day entails… Mostly working on the next collection. I meet regularly with the teams in my design studio and atelier, to check the progress of our ready-to-wear and accessories collections. I also try to take some time to study new projects and developments.

There are many trends for 2011 but… I always say that the key to being chic is to avoid a head-to-toe designer look. A dress should reflect a woman’s mood and personality. You can always tell if a woman is confident about her dress by the way she wears it. The only advice I could give is not to go too far with the sophistication. Sometimes less is more.

I have enjoyed dressing… All of the many talented and wonderful actresses who have worn Elie Saab.

I love to dress… All women who are eager to wear my clothes and believe in my style – it gives me great satisfaction.

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“I love to dress all women w ho are ea ger to wear m y clothes and believe in my style” CONFETI 43


It would surprise people that… I am a minimalist at heart. This is well reflected in the design of my homes and boutiques worldwide, which are very simple and almost spartan in terms of decoration; they were all designed by the same architect, who has a similar aesthetic to mine. I am passionate about architecture and interior design. My personal trademark style is a fusion of simplicity, luxury and modernism.

The Paris flagship store… Covers 1000m², in the most prestigious shopping area of the capital – the eighth arrondissement. It is a showcase for the ready-to-wear and accessories collections, and also houses the haute couture salons. The interior reflects the styles of the three other Elie Saab boutiques in London, Beirut and Dubai. There is a lot of travertine – a lightly-marbled, porous limestone that dresses the walls – and brown leather and wood furniture.

When Halle Berry accepted 2002’s best actress Oscar in an Elie Saab burgundy tulle and taffeta gown that… Was not the first time that Halle Berry, amongst other Hollywood stars, had worn one of my designs, but it was certainly huge exposure for the brand and created a lot of publicity for Elie Saab. Clients, stylists and celebrities from all over the world wanted to find out more about us and have access to our red carpet gowns.

The “ideal” wedding dress… Is the one that reflects most accurately the character of the bride wearing it.

A bride would get from an Elie Saab haute couture wedding dress… A unique silhouette, designed exclusively for her, which no other bride in the world would have. The dress would be the height of femininity, refinement, elegance and grace.

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Photography and Styling: Rossella Vanon // Model: Tiphaine Siovel // Make-up: Erika Wilson

Beauty

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Hairstylist ERROL DOUGLAS MBE is among the crème de la crème of the hairdressing industry and a favourite of clients and industry peers alike. His extensive list of clients includes Naomi Campbell, Diana Ross and Uma Thurman – to name a few.

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o get your hair in tip top condition you need to feed and nourish it, have regular trims and try to avoid any chemical treatments; even if you do this by leaving bigger gaps in between colouring or treatments. If you feel your hair is not growing fast enough, don’t panic, there are many quick fixes you can do for your big day. You can get extensions just for the day or for the week. These do not have to cost the earth – you could try a weft, glue on or clip on. Prices vary from £25 - £2500!

BEACHY WAVES FOR YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING

I’m a massive fan of the whole Matrix range, and you can use it to create some fantastic looks. One of my favourites at the moment is beachy waves for long hair. Try applying Matrix Design Pulse Loosely Defined Tex48 CONFETI

GROWING YOUR HAIR

ture Crème through the length of your hair while damp and then plaiting it over night.

FIGHT THE FRIZZ

So many people have asked about dry hair recently – I keep being asked for “a good cut for flat, flyaway hair”. The simple answer is that there isn’t one. It’s a total myth that flyaway hair can be tamed by a cut, it’s all to do with static and ions in the air. If you invest in a keratin permanent blow-dry every so often, use products with tons of moisture, and go easy on the heated appliances, you’ll bring your hair back down to earth.

CURLS THAT LAST

When styling your hair, make sure it’s not newly washed; it should be at least a day old so it has a bit of “grit” to it. This will help the styles stay in place.

The size of the curl you go for will depend on the length of your hair and what curl/look you are going for. Generally, I would say with long hair you would go for larger curls, but it depends on what type of curl you are hoping to acheive (loose, tight, dropped out etc). Start by using a heat protector spray all over the hair; Matrix Vavoom Gold Heat is perfect. Then work round the hair with spiral tongs; start at the front and sides, working round to the back. To use the tong, wrap sections of hair around the hot appliance, hold it in place for five-six seconds and then let the hair go. To reinforce the curl, follow this by putting the sections of hair into Carmen rollers and leave to set for 30 minutes – this will cement the curl. Spritz hair with Matrix Vavoom for ultra hold when rollers are in, and again when the curlers have been removed. This will create a catwalk look to last.



Celebrity make-up artist ARIANE POOLE’s clients include Penelope Cruz and Kelly Brook…

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT FOUNDATION

MATURE SKIN: A hydrating foundation or one with light-reflecting properties is best for mature skin. Look for products with a semi-matte or dewy finish that are not too heavy. Anything opaque or matte can be very ageing. A liquid mineral foundation would look fantastic. You could try a line-filling and skin-smoothing primer under your foundation to help boost your complexion.

Different coverage and finishes SHEER: This is a barely-there look and it is great for young and near-perfect skin. LIGHT: This provides a bit more cover and is perfect for someone who just wants to even out their complexion. It’s good for dry, combination or mature skin. MEDIUM: Moderate cover for a slightly less than perfect complexion. This is good for all skin types. OPAQUE: Gives maximum cover for skin that is really damaged by scars, broken veins and birth marks. Suits most skin types apart from mature and very dry.

Next choose the type of finish you would like

C

hoosing the right foundation is no easy task. Get it right and you’ll look fantastic, get it wrong and none of your make-up (however well done) will look right. There are so many different products out there, so before you head to the beauty counter, take the following steps:

Ask yourself, “What type of skin do I have?”

Photo by Debenhams

DRY SKIN: Your skin would benefit from using a moisturising foundation or a liquid one that has a dewy, lightreflective finish. Avoid any liquid to powder foundations.

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COMBINATION SKIN: You can use any type of foundation; just choose it depending on the type of look you want. PROBLEM OR OILY SKIN: Problem skin benefits from an oil-free foundation, a cream to powder foundation (some of the new ones are oil-free) or a matte mineral powder. Avoid any creamy, moisturising or lightreflective products. Also try an oil absorbing primer.

SHINY is best only on youthful flawless skin. DEWY/MOIST is suitable for all skin types other than problem or oily. DEMI-MATTE is great for all skin types. MATTE is best for problem, oily and combination skin.

At the Counter Having chosen the appropriate foundation, based on your skin type and your preferred finish and coverage, you are now ready to find the perfect colour. To do this, apply a stripe of foundation on your chin, not on the back of your hand - the colour is never the same. Leave it to settle for a couple of minutes to see if the colour changes when the foundation reacts with your skin’s natural oils. Now check it in natural daylight, this is the only true light. The foundation colour that you don’t see is the right one. Don’t be tempted to alter your skin colour with foundation, it will just look false and like a mask. You may find that you have to mix two foundations together to get the perfect shade for you; don’t worry make-up artists do this all the time.


For you…

the star of the day, the bride…

Let us design the bouquet you always dreamt of! Flor Valentin your florist on the coast.

Centro Idea Ctra. de Mijas km 3,6 29650 Mijas Malaga, España Web: www.florvalentin.es / Email: janne@florvalentin.es Photo: Jeremy Standley

Tel: +34 951 311 086 / Mobile: +34 669 061 234



Interview by Natasha Johnson

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elebrities know all too well what it is like to be under the spotlight and constantly in the public eye. With so much attention, it is no wonder that many A-listers have been known to turn to cosmetic surgery to iron out those blemishes and imperfections that the media loves to point out. The same perhaps could

be said for brides (and grooms) to-be, whose wedding day will thrust them into the most intense spotlight they will probably ever be under in their lives. There is nothing like a slow walk down the aisle, dozens of camera flashes, and a svelte wedding dress to highlight the imperfections that you would rather go unnoticed.

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Run-of-the-mill solutions like prewedding diets or detoxes and intensive gym sessions before the big day seem to be a thing of the past for some. It now seems that more and more women (and men) are taking it one step further and going down the cosmetic surgery route. Unlike dieting and gym workouts, there is the added incentive that a little nip and a tuck can last you well beyond your wedding day. Dr. Kai Kaye is one man who has seen this trend rise before his very eyes. As one of Marbella’s leading cosmetic surgeons, he has been responsible for helping brides create their dream wedding-day look. Confeti finds out how…

“M

y typical day at work means I start at the clinic between 9.00 am and 10.00 am, depending on the day. I mainly have one operation in the morning, then clinical work, check-ups and pre- or post-op consultations until 2.30pm to 3.00pm. After a quick, but much needed lunch, I start again around 4pm, either with the second operation of the day or clinical work. The clinic closes at 7.30pm to the public, but most days I stay on to do one to two hours of paperwork. The days are quite long, but it is a rewarding profession, which I would not swap for any other. Working in today’s cosmetic surgery industry means we always strive to stay up-to-date with the lat-

est techniques. I go to many international meetings and congresses during the course of the year, so I can ensure that my patients can enjoy the best treatments available. New treatments at the moment include: the wide field of fat transfer to enhance volume in the face or the body, minimal scar procedures and new tissue glues for a better and quicker healing. Having cosmetic surgery for your big day is a steadily growing phenomenon. More and more people are interested and really looking into various procedures to enhance their look. Cosmetic surgery can correct imperfections or asymmetries that makeup cannot cover. It can also work on the general appearance of the body, giving the bride a body-contour, which allows for a wider choice of dresses to enhance her body, not hide it. A pre-wedding consultation with a plastic and aesthetic surgeon is increasingly becoming something that brides-to-be do with the same normality as they talk to their hair stylist and makeup artists. Cosmetic surgery has become more and more accessible nowadays. It is definitely no longer a domain for rich women only. Most brides-to-be want minimal or non-invasive procedures such as Botox-treatments for expression lines, Hyaluronic acid to treat deeper wrinkles or to give more volume to the lips and light peelings

THE TRANSFORMATIONS

Before & After

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for skin irregularities. Also, many want liposculpturing to enhance their silhouette for a gorgeous wedding dress or blepharoplasty (an eye-lid lift) to enhance the shape of the eyes. Most clients often come in two to three months before their wedding and want to know what they can do to look their best on their wedding day. Timing for a wedding-related procedure is essential. If the treatment is surgical, it should be carried out at least three months before the wedding to make sure that the healing process does not interfere with the preparations or rehearsals, and that the final result is visible. In the case of minimal invasive treatments such as Botox or facial wrinkle treatments with hyaluronic acid, they require a minimum of 10-14 days beforehand, so that any eventual swelling or bruising will have gone. One of my most successful prewedding procedures was correcting a big asymmetry of a bride-to-be’s upper eye-lids, which she had since birth. Afterwards she sent me photos from her wedding day with close-up shots of a pair of beautiful eyes, full of happiness. Every day has different highlights, but what makes me most happy is giving my patient back a beauty and a self-confidence that they somehow lost. For example, reconstructing a breast after cancer, correcting facial scars after an accident or in general when a patient enjoys looking at him or herself again.

My top tips for bridal cosmetic surgery are firstly, to stay natural, don’t overdo it, just enhance your own beauty to the point that it shines on your great day. Secondly, take enough time beforehand to see the doctor and don’t rush the treatment. In general, anybody who wants to undergo this kind of treatment must feel total confidence within themselves and also with their treating doctor. Never do anything because you feel under pressure or feel obliged to fit a certain pattern. I would advise against surgery when it simply is not needed. Or in some cases where there is not enough time to ensure a complete healing or disappearance of bruising before the big day. If I had to describe myself in a few words, I would say I am artistic, happy and a perfectionist.

OCEAN CLINIC Av. Ramon y Cajal, 7 - 29600 Marbella +34 951 775 518 +34 670 770 455 oceanclinic.net

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Stockist www.mytuxedo.co.uk

Groom

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Suited & Booted Give formal wedding attire a fashionable edge with these fresh, stylish looks CONFETI 59


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Stockist: debenhams.com All suits: Jeff Banks Morning Tailcoat Package (Includes Waistcoat, Shirt, Cravat and Hankie - Black or Grey). Package price £110 (138€).

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Giles Brown, who let’s face it, is every mother’s dream, offers some sage advice if you’re about to get married to the MOB!

Mommie Dearest S

o, you’ve finally found your soulmate and you´re excitedly planning your future years of wedded bliss together. But before you get too carried away with your visions of the perfect wedding day, there is one rather large and important black cloud lurking on the horizon – your future mother-in-law or motherof-the-bride (MOB for short). And some of them can be so MOBbed up that they make the Sopranos look like the Brady Bunch. Of course, your future spouse isn’t perfect – despite what she may tell you - and neither is her mother. Some future mother-in-laws are helpful, supportive and welcoming during the wedding-planning process. Others are MOBzillas who make unreasonable demands, express disapproval, or simply refuse to help. So here are some tips to help deal with a difficult future mother-in-law before the wedding. Your future wife is bringing many wonderful things into your life, but there is the distinct prospect that her mother isn’t one of them. If you think that your future mother-in-law is going to be difficult, and is likely to be problematic throughout your marriage as well, you’re going to have to be a big boy and deal with it. Whatever you do, don’t let her spoil your big day.

Make sure your beloved takes a hefty share of the responsibility of dealing with her mother. After all she’s not your parent, so your share of the headaches should be reduced. A great idea for nipping any trouble in the bud might be to sit down with your future spouse and your mother-in-law, perhaps over a nice lunch, and calmly discuss what it is she wants. If she feels like you’re listening, she may start being more reasonable. If, however, she starts

... w’s coming to stay -la in rhe ot m e th when s.” “I can always tell selves on the trap em th w ro th e ic m the Les Dawson

bitching about the restaurant, table settings and service, you are in for a long, long ride, my friend. It’s always a good idea to agree to some of the MOBster’s wishes. If she demands you invite 50 last-minute guests, tell her that’s impossible, but that you can try to accommodate 15 or 20. This may calm her down a bit, but don’t allow yourself to be trampled underfoot.

did most of the wedding planning, and thus got to have her own dreams realised. She may just be feeling left out and hungry for attention, so let her have some input. Explain to her that you’d like her to help support her daughter so there are a variety of tasks that she could help with. These include: helping the bride choose her wedding dress and other wedding attire, looking for wedding and reception locations (especially if the wedding is taking place in your home town and not theirs), drawing up the guest list for her side of the family, and closer to the date of the wedding, calling any of the guests who are late in RSVPing. It won’t hurt to be enthusiastic about what an important role she will be playing on your big day as well. She’ll be acting as hostess at the wedding and reception, making sure that the guests are comfortable, standing in the receiving line, sitting at the top table, and making sure the bride has greeted all her guests. So you want to be sure that she will be doing all of that with unbridled enthusiasm, not muttering about the fact that her little princess would have been far better off with the investment banker that she used to date years before.

An even better idea is to get her involved in wedding-planning tasks. Traditionally the MOBster

It might also be a good idea to have a Camp David style summit. If they haven’t already met,

“My wife said: ‘Can my mother come down for the weekend?’ So I said: ‘Why?’ and she said: ‘Well, she’s been up on the roof two weeks already.’” Bob Monkhouse

get both sets of parents together to meet. This will give both mums the chance to discuss what they will be wearing at the ceremony, and avoid the potential of clashing or identical outfits – which would be disastrous for all concerned. And if you are having trouble with the MOBster, have a word with your own mum. Get her to befriend your future mother-in-law and keep her busy and happy. Although it might seem a little bit sickly, if you are lucky and Mother’s Day occurs during the wedding planning, give your future mother-in-law a lovely card, gift and some attention. It may well save you tons of aggravation later.

Give her a chance. You prob-

ably don’t know your future mother-in-law well yet and hopefully she’s not as bad as you think. She’s your partner’s mum, so it’s worth your time to give her the benefit of the doubt before judging her harshly. And whatever happens, she can’t be as bad as the mother-in-law of a friend of mine, who had a “bit of a turn” at the wedding disco and ended up running off with one of the ushers…

“My mother-in-law said: ‘one day I will dance on your grave’. I said ‘I hope you do, I’m planning to be buried at sea.’” Les Dawson CONFETI 65



pierrerichardsonphotography.com.

Location, Location

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Every room

TELLS A DIFFERENT STORY By Nicola McGeorge

Owenfarrellphotography.com

Enjoy old charm in perfect condition with Granada’s best kept secret, the Cortijo del Marqués experience the beauty of Andalusia. The exact age of the Cortijo del Marqués remains unknown. However, we know that before the Marquis of Mondéjar converted the main building into his manor house, it was a convent. The 4,000-hectare estate was planted with olive trees, the traditional crop of the area. More than 30 peasant families lived in the estate’s buildings and – like in any other small village – it had a miller, a blacksmith, a teacher and a shepherd.

I

t was love at first sight when Andy and I rounded the corner and caught our first glimpse of the Cortijo del Marqués. This charming, carefully restored, Andalusian manor house set in olive groves is a 20-minute drive from Granada and the world famous Alhambra Palace. There are not many places that I have visited, that can claim to be the perfect wedding, honeymoon and holiday venue while also being a wonderful family home. Yet, this delightful venue is all of the above rolled into one. 68 CONFETI

The drive up to the hotel was an experience in itself. After having a fight with the neighbour’s stroppy goose, which refused to let us drive any further, we then had to dodge chickens, before being greeted by another neighbour’s enormous dog. Arriving with a big grin on my face, Andy muttered, “Well, you wanted nature.” If you are searching for a special place to unwind then look no further. With its large patios, olive groves, and wheat and sunflower fields – you can truly

In 1878, the chapel was built, which together with the fortified tower are the most recent additions to the Cortijo. The peasant families living at the Cortijo del Marqués, as well as those of nearby farms, who also worked for the Marquis, used to attend Sunday mass at the chapel. The restoration work on the Cortijo buildings began in 2002. The main aim was to preserve all the original elements and materials of the Cortijo del Marques. Unusual architectural elements were used to decorate the rooms: Roman columns, olive oil cisterns, pigeon niches and wooden mangers.

Every bedroom invites you to experience a little piece of history. My favourite guest room was the El Granero (The Granary), an amazing 80m2 suite in the former granary of the Cortijo with a five-metre high, original wooden ceiling and stone walls. Other special features were a four-poster bed, a beautiful sitting area and an enormous tiled bathtub. Andy preferred Los Aljibes (The Cisterns), a spacious 108m2 suite comprising a large main room with fireplace, four Roman columns and a spectacular bath built around gigantic olive oil cisterns. If this wasn’t enough to take your breath away, we were then taken through a tiny wooden door, like something out of Alice in Wonderland, and we popped out into the exquisite chapel. I have to admit I was actually moved to tears. It was so overwhelmingly beautiful, it left me speechless. As this doesn’t happen a lot, Andy had to check that I was still breathing. With its 111m2 floor space, it is a beautiful setting for weddings, concerts, dance performances and other social events. Having been restored to


Owenfarrellphotography.com

its former glory when it was built in 1878, the altar laterals still show the ancient family coats of arms of the blue-blooded former owners. I couldn’t imagine a more perfect setting to get married in. Although the Cortijo is out of this world, what sets it apart is the welcoming family who own it. You couldn’t ask for better hosts. “Just like you, it was love at first

sight,” explained Silvia. “My husband Eilko and I were looking for a weekend house near Madrid when we somehow stumbled upon the Cortijo del Marqués in Granada. The time was right as we had been looking for a way out of the rat race for a while.” Silvia is a former Austrian diplomat and marketing professional, whereas Dutch born Eilko was trading the financial markets dur-

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ing his banking career. Between them they speak Spanish, English, German, Dutch and French enabling them to cater for many different nationalities. Eilko and Silvia have two beautiful sons, Pedro (4) and Mateo (2), both born in Madrid. Now they run the Cortijo del Marqués as a small-scale exclusive country hotel, offering guests a unique, relaxing experience. This is complemented by offering high-quality food based largely on local recipes, as well as an outstanding wine and drinks list. And, boy does Eilko know his wines. To impress Andy’s palette is no easy task, however, even he thoroughly enjoyed the wines that Eilko served. The food and service were superb. The couple are adamant about sourcing local products. 70 CONFETI

Even though I have lived in Spain for over seven years, I hadn’t tried many of the dishes on the menu and they were all delicious. Nothing beats home cooking. The big question is: would I have my wedding there? It is hard to imagine more romantic surroundings than the Cortijo del Marques. Moreover, when you make a reservation for your wedding, the couple guarantee exclusivity. All the banqueting halls and patios are multi-purpose, including the chapel. In the summer, there are two patios where the wedding reception and/or banquet can be held: the central cobbled patio with orange trees and fountain, or the front patio which has stunning views of the main facade of the Cortijo manor house and its impressive chapel. During the cooler months,

there are two indoor spaces available. The actual wedding ceremony can be held in the chapel or in any other location to your choice. In short, the Cortijo del Marqués is open for you to use your imagination in order to make your wedding a celebration to remember. I have always dreamt of having my wedding by the sea, however, after spending time at the Cortijo this notion has been firmly dismissed, as now I wouldn’t want to get married anywhere else!

Cortijo del Marqués Camino del Marqués s/n 18220 Albolote, Granada Tel: +34 958 34 00 77 +34 678 334 884 administracion@cortijodelmarques.com cortijodelmarques.com


Marbella & Mallorca Weddings

The Wedding Experts in Spain The Sunshine Weddings team are located in Marbella and Mallorca throughout the year and are very proud of almost a decades involvement in Spanish weddings.

Sunshine Weddings Spain specialise in introducing Brides and Grooms to unique and amazing settings that can transform your dream wedding in to reality. With a host of new venues available for 2012 weddings including the Royal Hacienda set in 25

acres of private grounds and includes exclusive 5* accommodation for 26 guests. This prestigious location close to Marbella boasts the most stunning views to enjoy your ceremony, cocktails, dinner and dancing under the Mediterranean stars.

To become a step closer to your dream Spanish wedding call Scott Gibbons on

weddings@SunshineWeddingsSpain.com

0208 7314353 (UK) / 679743986 (Spain)

www.SunshineWeddingsSpain.com


CONFETI in

Mallorca

Isla Bonita

The latest wedding news from the Balearic island of Mallorca

S

unshine Weddings Spain has been involved in hundreds of weddings in Andalucía in recent years, and now the Sunshine team has expanded to the beautiful island of Mallorca in the Balearics. With offices in London and Marbella, the company has been assisting brides and grooms for almost a decade. We asked Scott Gibbons of Sunshine Weddings the reason for opening in Mallorca. “Primarily, our focus is to locate the perfect venue for every bride and groom we meet. Having not visited Mallorca since I arrived in Marbella in 1999, I was curious about offering an alternative choice of venue from southern Spain. So I travelled along the Spanish costa and then visited Mallorca. I was amazed by the natural beauty of the island and some of the secluded locations of venues with spectacular views of both the mountains and sea. We looked at how easy it would be to travel to Mallorca and the

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cost implications compared to Malaga, which is one of the most frequented and low cost routes throughout Europe. I did not realise the volume of flights into Mallorca or the popularity for passengers from northern Europe, and the UK in particular. With the wide selection of venues available, and the low cost in reaching the island, we decided to approach hoteliers who are happy to accommodate large groups looking to celebrate their wedding on the island.” Sunshine Weddings generally assists in locating the ceremony and reception venue(s) as well as offering a full planning service with co-ordination throughout the wedding day. They are flexible and can be involved as little or as much as the bride and groom require.

yachts were instantly available to find.

Scott’s most recent enquiry was to source a luxury yacht and an English speaking minister to bless the couple out at sea. With its new office over-looking the marina in Palma, which is superbly managed by Tor CooperEvans, the options of luxury

For more information about Mallorca or Marbella weddings please contact: Scott Gibbons at: weddings@SunshineWeddingsSpain.com or visit SunshineWeddingsSpain.com

During 2011, Sunshine Weddings Spain are assisting with Catholic, Jewish and blessing ceremonies for brides and grooms residing in America, Germany, Holland, Ireland and the UK in Mallorca.

Photos by David Toms


Capturing

Unforgettable Moments

The best, spontaneous reportagestyle photographs for trend-conscious people

Y

our wedding will be one of the most significant events in your life. If you want to preserve those wonderful memories, then you really need to make sure that you find a talented photographer who you connect with. Sandra Mañas is a passionate and enthusiastic photographer who captures your wedding day in a modern, fresh and stylish way. Specialising in spontaneous, relaxed reportage style photography she expertly blends genuine emotions with contemporary and fashionable portraiture, while also focusing on good lighting which she is blessed with in Mallorca.

“My intention is to capture the emotions of the day with glamour and in an unobtrusive way so that the couple can enjoy their day to the full,” she explains. “I am very fortunate to have a job that I love. Photographing weddings is my passion and I get to be surrounded by happy people. I absolutely LOVE getting real I just w smiles, real tears, real emotions. an so muc ted to thank My intention is not just to get h for th you eb job you pictures of how you look, but in did an eautiful d just st unnin the book is getting pictures of WHO YOU g. You talent r is are! The resulting images are outsta truly n d in unique, genuine and beautiful g, th for ma king o ank you photographs that you will ur day so perf look ect. treasure forever.” Testimony

Natali e & Pau l (Lon don)

Sandra Mañas Boutique Photography +34 656 903 498 sandra@sandramanas.com sandramanas.com

* A member of the International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP) and the UK Society of Wedding & Portrait Photographers (SWPP) CONFETI 73



CONFETI in

Gib

Love on the Rock The latest wedding news from Gibraltar

Weddings in Gibraltar: fun, creative and hassle free!

“W

e are very excited about our brand new service for 2011,” explains Jeanette Obytz, director of Med Weddings. “Now you can create your own individual wedding from our online shop, mix and match products and services to your heart’s desire, or you might prefer to purchase one of our tried and tested wedding packages.” You’ll feel like a kid in an online candy shop when you visit medweddingsexpress.com. It is innovative, unique and it certainly makes planning your day a lot easier. It is certainly the first “one-stop, online wedding shop” in Gibraltar. It is the only place you can book, pick and choose your entire wedding from location to table napkins by adding to a shopping basket and simply pay for it all online. “I have collated all the services I have at my disposal and put the most popular on an online shop.” Jeanette adds. “I can only really do this because of the reputation Medweddings has and my superbly reliable suppliers. Unlike a normal shop where you browse things by desire, I have tried to get couples to think about things in a particular order.

For example, choosing the date of your wedding is important, because depending on the date not all wedding venues are available in Gibraltar. It is no fun to plan your whole day to find out that the tropical gardens are closed.” “I am also pleased to be able to offer very competitive prices, due to the fact that I get very good rates from the hotels and companies that I use. I am offering the same prices as if you went direct and in some cases even cheaper.” With the Medweddings Express business Jeanette wanted to offer the fantastic quality and dependability of her suppliers to this new emerging clientele, who don’t need the full wedding planner service, but still demand the high standards of a wellprepared event. “It has taken a lot of work to get everything to where it is now,” she admits. “Sometimes I wonder if I had known how much time setting up an online shop would take, I might have thought twice about it. But now it is ready I am very excited, and so far the feedback from clients has been very positive.”

For more information Tel +34 679 851 204 or +350 58008355 info@medweddings.com medweddings.com medweddingsexpress.com

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CONFETI in

Gib

Blooming

Gorgeous of local businesses. Gibral-Flora aims to please, which generates other orders to cater for birthdays, births, thank you gifts, anniversaries and more.

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ibral-Flora’s floristry/ wedding department has been around since 1986 and over the years has proudly served a very distinguished list of famous people including: The King of Morocco on various occasions, Elton John and Princess Anne, just to name a few. Gibral-Flora is a family run business and they pride themselves in everything they do. All of their customers are special in their own way, be it a small or huge order. Corporate business is an important bulk of the business; they cater for 95 percent of all gaming companies on The Rock, 75 percent of local hotels, 97 percent of the Cruise industry, 80 percent of banks and 71 percent 76 CONFETI

On June 16 this year GibralFlora will be holding its second Bridal Fayre at the Mons Calpe Suite cable car station. The first Fayre was attended by over 300 people, making it a huge success. With promising sales, they aim to reach this target again. All monies raised will be donated to two local charities. On the night you can expect a fashion show with the Gibralflora brides displaying exquisite bridal work created by its fourstrong team of florists, and a mini, bridal fashion show. We asked Gavin, the director of Gibral-Flora, for his floral trend predictions. “The Duchess of Cambridge has set the trend for flowers for 2011 and 2012,” he replied. “A simple, wired, Victorian style bridal bouquet containing British grown Lily of the Valley, Hyacinths, Sweet William and Myrtle,

creates a soft, simple everyday bride-to-be bouquet. For the more daring bride, Hyacinths come in tones of pinks, purples, and yellows for colour-themed weddings. Simplicity is the name of the game. This can be achieved with tons of white and cream, in a variety of different, soft, countrylooking flowers, with gentle foliage and topped with organza material to finish off an already tried and tested bridal bouquet.” Even if you are getting married further along the Costa Del Sol, Gibral-Flora can also cater for all your flower needs, so check them out on gibral-flora.gi or follow them on Facebook on facebook.com/gibralflora

Let’s Rock This Show The Confeti team is pleased to announce that we will be present at the Bridal Fayre in Gibraltar on the June 16 2011. Situated at the Top Station, Mons Calpe Suite, the show will open at 7.30 pm. Come and visit our stand where our team will be on hand for advice and recommendations. Tickets cost £8 each – tea, coffee and wedding cake will be served free of charge on the night. All the proceeds of the sale of the tickets, and the raffle being held on the night, will be donated to charity. Tickets can be purchased from Gibralflora Waterport, Roca Graphics Tuckeys Lane and MH Blands Cloister Building. We look forward to seeing you there.


Take a closer look...

A vibrant destination that combines the spirit of the Mediterranean with British Tradition.

For information: GIBRALTAR TOURIST BOARD UK: +44(0)20 7836 0777 info@gibraltar.gov.uk

For information: GIBRALTAR TOURIST BOARD UK: +44(0)20 7836 0777 info@gibraltar.gov.uk


Real Weddings

TOP OF THE ROCK

Interview by Natasha Johnson

Looking back at Harriette and Dimitri’s wedding from the top of the famous rock of Gibraltar.

Our vision… Having been living in La Linea, Spain since 2006, we have really made a home for ourselves here. As my husband Dimitri is French, and my family is from all across the UK, we had a lot of choice as to where we could hold the wedding. In the end, we thought nearby Gibraltar would be the best option, as we could show all of our family where we lived and they could also make a holiday of it, if they wanted to. We wanted to hold the ceremony and the reception in the same place, so we didn’t have to worry about changing venues halfway through the day. When we found out that you could do both at the Mons Calpe Suite and saw where it was located, everything clicked together. The view from the suite is amazing; it really showcases Gibraltar and the surrounding areas, and we knew it would make our wedding all the more memorable. We also loved the fact our guests would have to take a cable-car up to the rock to get to the suite, enabling them to enjoy the fantastic sights. We decided to have our wedding in July, as it is one of the nicest months, weather wise. I was also pregnant at the time, so I didn’t want to be too large and uncomfortable on the day! The weather, it turned out, was misty all day because of the Levante winds, but it cleared by sunset so there was a gorgeous night-time view.

Our style… We wanted a nice summery feel for the day; relaxed and not too formal. Our colours of choice were lilac and silver, with butterflies being the predominant theme. Every one of the tiny confetti butterflies, were made at home in the days before. The name cards were also butterflies, which we put on the glasses, and the table names were named after butterflies. We pretty much made every decoration for the wedding by hand, bar the name cards, as it made it even more personal and also saved money in the long run. As for our wedding attire, my husband wore a light grey suit with a lilac tie to match the colour theme. We left the two best men to buy their own suits together, however we did pick out lilac ties for them. With my dress, it was a bit of a last-minute panic. I had already bought a dress a year or so before, but I was way too big to fit into it so about two months before the wedding I ordered a new wedding dress on the internet and took it into a seamstress to have it fitted around my bump.

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The finishing touches…

Our treasured moment…

Something that I really loved was my wedding cake – a tower of cupcakes with purple, pink and white icing, decorated with butterflies. We opted for one main, small cake on top with our initials on it. My mum and little sister made the cakes over the week before the wedding and they were just amazing; we were eating them for days afterwards.

The ride up to the venue was brilliant, as it was just my closest friends, sisters and I in the cable car. Then, during the ceremony, my son Eliott (now five months old) started kicking, which made me get a bit emotional. The speeches were fantastic, my dad and best friend made everyone laugh and cry! The two best men did a fantastic speech in French and English, and also showed a film they’d made about my husband, which everyone wanted a copy of. One of the best moments though has to be when my husband and I shared our first dance at sunset. We had a fantastic view over the bay with the sun setting behind us. It was so gorgeous!

I also loved the wedding favours – sugared almonds, which were kept simple and traditional, but given a personal touch by my mother-in-law. She made the bags and decorations for them, which made them perfect. I will also never forget being on top of the rock surrounded by Barbary apes, which was a pretty awesome novelty. I don’t think any of my family has been to a wedding with apes sat on the roof of the building!

Harriette & Dimitri’s address book VENUE Mons Calpe Suite, Gibraltar www.monscalpesuite.com PHOTOGRAPHER Gibraltar Weddings www.gibraltarweddings.net HAIR Lauren, Classic Cuts (+350) 77774 MAKE UP My friend, Lucinda Kalinski FLORIST Gibral Flora www.gibral-flora.gi CAKE My mum, Julia DRESS Littlewoods online

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Photo by Gary Tapp @ yourweddingmoments.com

Photo by jeremystandley.com Styling by reviva-weddings.com

Photo by pierrerichardsonphotography.com.

Photo by jeremystandley.com Styling by reviva-weddings.com

Details

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10trends

for Flowers Top Florist Janne Valentin reveals the must-have floral trends for 2011

1 2 3 4 5

The colours this season are an eclectic mix of pastels and deep, rich colours. Warm tones of peach and apricot fused with dark pinks and purples in bridal bouquets make the flowers stand out against the dress. Bouquets are more rustic now. Having the stems showing at the base of the bouquet will give you that “just gathered from the garden” look, which is perfect for outdoor or natural beach weddings. DIY is huge this year. Personalisation of your décor reflects who you are as a couple. Include personal touches to your wedding to create an intimate, bespoke feel. Having your wedding abroad normally means a more family and close friends orientated guest list, so add your grandmother’s brooch to your bouquet and old photographs as part of your table decorations. Recycling is key for 2011. In this post recession era, move flowers from the wedding ceremony to the reception – delegate someone well in advance of the big day to do this.

TOP

TIP

It’s alwa ys g to m ood eet t befo he b re t r he w ide ding ed. Th a if s he w t way, ants long bouq a uet, can it be t ai her heig lored to ht.

82 CONFETI


TOP T IP Love qu o

tes or messag es to m embers of t h e b r id al p a r t y in the for m of rust ic t a g s attached t o in d iv id ual t a b le d e c o r a t io ns g iv e a sense o f in v o lv e m e nt and conn e c t io n to the b r id e for gue sts.

6 7 8 9 10

Family heirlooms add an individual feel to your flower decorations. For smaller weddings, having accessories with a history behind them make the whole affair more romantic. Rustic floral arrangements and accessories are making a huge comeback. It is becoming increasingly popular for the flowers in the bouquet to differ than those in the other decorations. This way the bride feels even more special. Floral halos are a big trend for younger bridesmaids. They will make them feel like princesses as they walk down the aisle. It’s not only the bridal party that can have personality when it comes to flowers. Individual buttonholes for the groom and ushers create a distinctive and unique look.

FLOR VALENTIN A little universe of plants, flowers and beautiful dÊcor, Flor Valentin opened in March 2007. Danish owner Janne Valentin Lassen and her partner Anna Sofia Fritzell, who is Swedish, are inspired by the latest trends from England, Denmark, Germany and Holland. The style at Flor Valentin is rustic, raw and feminine with a twist of old French bohème, and its innovative creative team ensure bespoke service for each individual brideto-be. CONFETI 83


THE AUTUMN NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW 2011 Earls Court, London 30 September - 2 October Birmingham NEC 7 - 9 October

W

The Ultimate Bride Guide

eddings were definitely on the minds of the British brides to be this spring, as almost 25,000 consumers flocked to London Olympia and Birmingham NEC to be part of one of top attractions the wedding industry has to offer. The shows attracted some of the biggest names in the bridal market, including John Lewis, House of Fraser, Next, Debenhams, and, of course, our very own Confeti magazine. Our stand at the London show was constantly busy, with our entire supply of Magazines being snapped up in record time. The team was on hand to offer recommendations and assist couples with filling out information request forms. We were then able to pass these on to our happy advertisers. Due to the amount of interest the Balearics, we are adding a regular Mallorca section to our magazine. We were also delighted to have many enquiries from multi-national couples from as far away as China, America and the Carib-

Naomi Neoh 84 84 CONFETI

This spring, wedding fever swept the country at the UK’s best-loved wedding event, The National Wedding Show

bean. Spain really is the place to get married. As for the rest of the show, 250 exhibitors were out in force, representing all the key sectors of the wedding industry, ready to offer visitors advice and elite services. With bridal wear, cakes, venues, wedding favours, stationery and flowers as well as more unusual ideas such as Shoot-itYourself and My OK! Wedding. The highlight had to be the stunning new-look catwalk show. Showcasing six shows a day to meet the demand of the visitors, collections included Suzanne Neville, Ian Stuart, Jenny Packham, Justin Alexander, Ronald Joyce, Benjamin Roberts, Amanda Wakeley, Pronovias, Augusta Jones Couture, Ellie Sanderson, Maggie Sottero,

Jonathan James Couture, Aire Barceolna by Rosa Clara and Jacques Vert. Many brides in the audience subsequently dashed over to visit the corresponding stands in the boutique and designer areas.

Elizabeth Marsh

How to look good Show


As popular as ever, and now on its own dedicated stage area, The How to Look Good Show, was hosted by TV’s style guru Caryn Franklin (The Clothes Show, GMTV and This Morning) together with her expert team of celebrity style experts. Performing live make-overs and working their magic on eager brides, grooms and mothers of the bride who were selected at random from the audience.

Anna Tyler Cakes The London show attracted an infamous name in the wedding industry: Vera Wang. The Wedding Shop at Selfridges hosted an exclusive sample sale of stunning, highly-sought after Vera Wang bridal gowns. Amy Hourican of The Wedding Shop Selfridges said, “We have had a great day seeing many bridesto-be who are buying dresses at a high price point. We have met a very pleasant clientele at the show.” House of Fraser’s personal shopping manager, Diane McCarthy raved, “It has been amazing, we have been so busy, our Biba dresses have gone brilliantly. We will definitely be back at the next show!”

Crumbs Cupcakes The guys were not forgotten, as the show boasted a stunning array of groomswear, retailers and designers included Moss Bros, Hugh Harris, Cad & the Dandy, Room Ten, Slaters and Peter Posh. Following last year’s launch of the VIP ticket, it appears that every bride likes to be treated like a celebrity, as sales of the tickets exceeded that of last year. VIP ticket holders beat the crowds by taking advantage of the fast-track entrance into the show, enjoying reserved seating at the fabulous catwalk show, live features and a complimentary glass of Freixenet cava plus a VIP goody bag full of treats in the exclusive VIP lounge.

Both shows received a visit from pop princess, Beverley Knight, who is currently planning her big day. She loved it so much that she attended the London leg with her fiancé and the Birmingham show, in her hometown, with her Mum. Browsing dresses, wedding favours, accessories and photographers, she said, “The National Wedding Show is fantastic, I have got so many ideas for our wedding and have lots to go away and think about. The catwalk was stunning, I have met so many wonderful companies and people; the day has been so inspirational.”

Overall, the National Wedding Show was a great success for exhibitors and organisers alike. Ashley Roberts, Event Director commented, “We have made a big investment in the show’s features this year, to enhance the experience for the visitor and to increase opportunities and exposure for our exhibitors. By redesigning the catwalk and increasing the show times, we aimed to add a fresh, fashion focus to the show. We strive to please both our exhibitors and visitors and make the National Wedding Show a great event to be a part of for years to come.” The autumn 2011 National Wedding Show dates are 30 September - 2 October at Earls Court, London and 7 - 9 October NEC, Birmingham. nationalweddingshow.co.uk

The show saw a strong attendance from more than 130 key members of the media. From the bridal press, national newspapers, news channels, and magazines to online and TV production companies, they all wanted content for their publications or shows from the UK’s most influential event in the market.

The Confeti Team and accessory designer Olivier Laudus

Linda Cottee

Suzanne Neville CONFETI 85


LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU I

t is said that music can make or break an event, and nowhere is this truer than at a wedding. One of the benchmarks of a successful wedding celebration, is what the guests are talking about months after the event, and along with the food and the venue, entertainment is usually top of the list. In terms of planning, the best way to design and budget for your evening´s entertainment is to break it down into sections:

Ceremony music Are you at an outdoor or indoor venue? If you are in a large outdoor space, music will need to be appropriately amplified, whether it is live or recorded. If in a church, check with the parish priest whether he will allow certain instruments and styles. Also confirm your music choices with the priest conducting the ceremony, as some will insist on strictly religious or classical pieces. If you are playing some favourite songs on an iPod or sound system, make sure you have assigned someone to start and stop the music and that they 86 86 CONFETI

are well aware of the order of service. This can be your planner or a trustworthy member of the wedding party.

Cocktail music The most important thing to remember about this part of the evening is that the cocktail music should contribute to the ambience, rather than overwhelm it. At this stage, guests want to mingle and chat; they don´t want their voices to be drowned out by loud noise. Popular choices for the drinks reception include a Spanish guitarist, jazz groups or music on a CD/iPod such as Café del Mar or Gipsy Kings. All contribute to the atmosphere without being intrusive.

During the meal People often forget that it is vital to have some kind of background music during the reception meal. Similar to the cocktail, it is best to choose something either live or recorded, that will be subtle but atmosphereenhancing.

After the meal This is where the big decisions need to be made. There tends to be a natural lull at weddings when the meal is over, speeches have been made and the cake has been cut. Guests need to be encouraged to get off their seats and this is usually down to the entertainment. A good combination is a live band followed by a DJ. On the coast there is a huge selection of excellent soloists, duos, small and large groups with styles ranging from swing and Frank Sinatra to 70s, modern, funk, soul and a combination of all of the above. It is vital to ask for samples of their music and wherever possible, try to arrange to see live bands in action before the wedding. DJs can also make or break a wedding, and it is important to meet your DJ beforehand to discuss playlists and their hosting style. Remember to find out clear finishing times with the venue which should be discussed with the musicians or DJ, so that they can finish the event cleanly and on a high. Most entertainers are aware that weddings can be become delayed and should not

Photo by David Toms stipulate strict starting times. It is also a good idea to offer them some kind of refreshments during the night. Of course, entertainment isn’t just about music, there are many alternative options that can really get the party going such as singing waiters, magicians, clowns, fire eaters, belly dancers, snake charmers, cigar rollers, mini-casinos, vodka luges, flamenco shows; the list goes on. Your imagination and your budget are your only limits! As with most wedding suppliers, personal recommendations are key, and couples should always use forums and their wedding planners to get the best advice possible for such an important part of their big day. Heather Sadtler is the Director of Fiestasol Weddings & Catering +34 657 214 831 info@fiestasol.com fiestasol.com


Photo by David Toms CONFETI 87


The High Note Amanda Rosa is a classically trained vocalist of the highest standard, and is in huge demand for wedding ceremonies, receptions, corporate events and private functions across Spain and Europe. Trained at Trinity College of Music in London, she has performed in many professional shows throughout the UK. She has been established as a popular performer here in Spain for nearly 16 years. The quality of Amanda`s voice is absolutely stunning, and together with her pleasant nature and vast experience in all types of music, you are sure to have an occasion that is second to none. She performs with her own professional sound equipment and is also happy to work with live musicians if requested. With

a vast repertoire she can offer many different styles of music such as: classical arias, sacred hymns, popular love songs, West End/Broadway showstoppers and all those popular dance hits from 1950s through to the hits of today. She is also willing to learn new songs, despite already having an extensive repertoire. If you need help deciding what type of music would suit your occasion, Amanda will be delighted to assist you. Whatever you are planning for, Amanda is always dedicated to ensuring your special day will be nothing but perfect! To listen to Amanda’s angelic voice and for more information, take a peek at her website: + 34 600 286 790 amanda-rosa.com

Photo by David Toms

Disco Inferno Whatever the occasion, choosing the right mobile disco and DJ is paramount. A professional DJ is one of the most important ingredients in making your special event a fantastic success, and Laurie Scott guarantees to help make your celebration one to remember. Laurie Scott is a Professional International Mobile Disc Jockey who works along the coast from Gibraltar to Nerja as well as further inland; however, he is willing to travel further afield if required. Providing a personal, flexible and reliable service is Laurie´s philosophy and his aim is to give you precisely what you require at an affordable price. His job is to provide you with a lasting memory of your event, whether it is a wedding, birthday, anniversary, corporate function, private party, karaoke evening or any other type of celebration.

+34 952 592 133 weddingdjspain.com 88 88 CONFETI

Did someone say Karaoke? “With the popularity of TV shows such as Pop Idol and The X Factor, anyone and everyone can have “stars in their eyes”. As the karaoke host, it is my job to bring out the ‘inner diva’ in all the singers taking part,” explains Laurie. “My karaoke parties have something for everyone; for the young and the old. They give you the chance to revisit memories and sing songs from the past to the present day, covering all styles from Sinatra and Andy Williams to Shakira and Robbie Williams. I can provide a karaoke party on its own or combine a karaoke party with a disco – the choice is yours. I am always happy to discuss the music with you, it’s your event, and you can choose the music you want. Or if you prefer, I am happy to choose and play the music that I know will work. After all we both want the same thing, a full dance floor and a great party atmosphere.”



Give your wedding the X Factor

You’ve got the dress, organised the venue, and sorted the food, but what about booking the right entertainment with which to end your perfect day? Choosing the right entertainment can be a headache, what with elderly aunts and young cousins to please. British X Factor stars have a wealth of experience in performing at weddings and pleasing crowds, including Austin Drage who was one of the ten finalists in series 5.

The 24 year old - who is an accomplished pianist, guitarist and drummer - is familiar with Southern Spain, having performed at the prestigious Butterfly Ball in Hotel Puente Romano in Marbella. He has also supported acts including Rod Stewart, Elton John and most recently Robbie Williams. Austin has a large repertoire covering soul, motown, funk and popular covers, making him ideal for most wedding parties. X Factor finalist Laura White also has the ability to wow the

THE SOUND OF MUSIC MUSIBODAS are classical music services for weddings and events on the Costa del Sol. With more than 10 years of experience supplying entertainment for wedding ceremonies 90 90 CONFETI

crowds at any wedding reception, after being labelled “world class” by Louis Walsh. The singer was the only contestant to receive a standing ovation during the first live show of series 5.

BACK TO BLACK Pete Black’s polished performance, both on keyboards and vocals will add a touch of class to your wedding day. Since relo-

cating to the Costa del Sol seven years ago, Pete has become a popular choice for wedding entertainment along the coast. Having worked all over the world for top leisure and hospitality companies that include Hilton, Marriott, Haven and Warner, he has the experience to deliver an elegant show perfectly tailored for the happy couple and their guests. With a varied repertoire to suit everyone, including romance, swing and a great dance set to keep the floor busy all night, Pete is the ideal choice for entertainment on your very special day. Pete Black – The preferred choice for wedding entertainment on the Costa. +34 697 128 646 / +34 619 560 026 peteblackmedia.webs.com

The 23 year old says she particularly likes performing at weddings because “it’s always such a beautiful event.” Laura’s style is soul and pop, although she says that R&B is also a big influence on her music. She has links with Southern Spain having performed at weddings, as well as an annual film awards ceremony in Marbella last summer. Many couples planning their big day want ‘their’ song as the first dance, and experienced artists are usually willing to tailor their act to suit. Even if it means learning that ‘special’ song for your big day to give it the ‘X Factor’. For more information about booking Austin Drage, Laura White or any other X Factor performers contact Scarlett Entertainment at: scarlettentertainment.com

and receptions, they are one of the leading companies in the wedding sector. Offering you a refined, live, classical music selection, they take care of every single detail of the musical organisation at your event. Having an extensive and varied repertoire they can create that elegant moment you are looking for. Musibodas are available for all kinds of social events: Weddings, Parties, Concerts... making your celebration an unforgettable event. +34 660 75 32 46 classicalmusicweddings.weebly.com

FIZZY FUN

Want a different form of entertainment at your wedding? Longing to impress your guests and make sure that your day is one that everyone remembers? Then why not take a leaf out of Napoleon’s book and saber some champagne bottles. The staff at Nermans has been sabering champagne bottles for over a year now, and even boast the World Record for 32 bottles sabered in a minute,

AMAZING

GRACE

With a voice that can reduce you to tears, singer Laura Elen is a must for your wedding, whether she performs at the church or at your venue. An international Welsh singer, she won the Costa del Sol singer of the year in 2006, beating more than 500 entrants to the competition. Specialising in weddings, you wouldn’t expect such a strong, beautiful voice to come from

set by Julio Chang, a member of Team NR. Guests who attempt this unique act of opening a bottle of champagne with a sword will be awarded with an official certificate; this really will add the wow factor to your special day. For further enquiries or bookings, contact Joakim Nerman. +34 952 815 398/607 942 167 nermans.com Laura. She can bring the emotion to your special day with songs such as Ave Maria, Fields of Gold and Amazing Grace. However, if you want your wedding evening to go off with a bang, Laura can tailor her songs to suit your wedding party style. Part of the package includes the sound system and light show to make your party a day or night to remember. Laura can be booked for UK, Irish and Spanish weddings, private villa parties, and corporate events. + 34 661 36 60 99 lauraelen.com



Stephen Lloyd-Morgan

The Perfect Pitch “

Photos by David Toms show-stopping hits from musical theatre, opera and crossover pieces sung in English, Spanish and Italian. He is now in great demand throughout Europe. Confeti has been lucky enough to slow him down, just long enough to ask him a few needto-know questions:

D

escribed as, “the latest singing sensation to sweep the coast”; now with ever increasing popularity and critical acclaim, Stephen Lloyd-Morgan has recently been hailed as, “One of the finest discoveries the Costa has ever seen” and, “is without doubt, the best tenor on the coast”. From large-scale concerts, charity events, weddings or the more intimate after-dinner performance, Steve never fails to enthral an audience with his powerful voice and energetic show. He has an extensive repertoire of 92 92 CONFETI

Hello again Stephen, thank you so much for finding the time to speak with us. So much has happened for you in the last couple of years; we’d love to know how you’re coping with your great success and increasingly busy schedule?

Hi, yes, the last couple of years here in Marbella have been very exciting for me. Singing is something that I adore and to achieve such a degree of success as a performer is wonderful. There is no better feeling than to get up on stage, put your heart and soul into a performance and to be rewarded and overwhelmed by the audience’s response. There is just nothing better! Busy is an understatement; I also have to find the time to record some album tracks and a radio series within the next month!

That sounds very exciting! In September 2010, you received an invitation to be a part of The Golden Book of the 100 of Marbella, congratulations! How does it feel to know your talent has been so widely recognised and celebrated?

I was really honoured to be included as one of the 100 people who contributed most towards the growth and development of Marbella. To be classed as an ambassador for the town for my performing and charity work was amazing. It was totally unexpected and it feels like I have been accepted and embraced by everyone in Marbella. I have also been very fortunate to have met some fantastic personalities in the process.

You are still finding plenty of time for charity work, and it is easy to see this does not go unnoticed. The 2010 “Help Haiti Campaign” was even congratulated by Her Majesty the Queen, who sent you her best wishes! It must be heart-warming to see that all your efforts and generosity reaches such a high level of appreciation?

If I am asked to do a charity event I rarely say no; all I am doing is providing my voice for a few songs. I am very proud of the fundraising that took place in the wake of the Haiti earthquake, especially the charity single ‘The Prayer for Haiti´. Although the main organising force behind all its success was my manager Nick Holland. My focus tends to be on causes very close to my heart, especially supporting cancer charities, which is very important to me. In September, we are staging two large concerts in my hometown of Treorchy, in aid of the cancer charity Tenovus. This is in memory of my Dad who we lost to cancer just last November. I would also like to get more involved with Diabetic Research, having been a diabetic myself for 27 years.

Last June, you performed for the first time in Spain with a live orchestra at The Butterfly Ball in Marbella. Your performance was described as “world class”. How was this experience for you?

Having performed in musical theatre and operas both in the UK and Ireland, I am really no


Photo by Kevin Horn

Photo by Johnny Gates stranger to working with live musicians; it is always something special though. What is unusual was performing with an orchestra in Marbella, a truly unique experience! I will be working with several other orchestras this year.

Being recently signed to one of the UK’s top agents must be very exciting for you?

During my time in Spain the focus has been on developing my career here rather than in the UK, so there was no real need for the representation I had previously. I am never one to stand still for long and my career is continually opening up new opportunities for me; I am now signed with several top agencies in Europe, covering musical theatre and acting through to performance and corporate work. My main UK agent is Gareth Richards of Keddie Scott Associates Ltd., one of the most reputable and successful firms in the UK and Internationally.

You are now very much an international artist, performing all over Europe. Do you have a favourite destination, other than the Costa del Sol?

I love Spain; I particularly like Barcelona. Last year, I sang at the magnificent Museu Nacional D´Art de Catalunya (The National Museum of Art) hired by Hitachi Worldwide for a private performance.

Despite being internationally acclaimed, and in great demand, you still find enough time to return to the Costa del Sol and perform (fortunately for us!). Are there any particular performances scheduled here on the coast that we can put in our diaries?

With so much going on, who would you say have been the most influential and inspiring individuals for you in the past few years?

In terms of me embarking on any sort of singing career, it has to be my Dad who had the most influence and who I have to really thank. He sang from a very early age, and as a teenager was in a band called The Zendars that supported The Who.

Confeti is very happy to hear that you are available for wedding performances. How is performing on a person’s most special day different to your usual performances?

Although I am based here, I now rarely get the opportunity to perform here; however, I will be at the Arte Marbella Festival on June 25 with the wonderful soprano Julie-Anne Hunter. I am particularly looking forward to the second Children for Peace Gala at Hotel Villa Padierna on June 4. I will be accompanied on stage by lead dancers from The New York City Ballet while singing an amazing piece “Sometimes I Dream”; I think this will be something very special. I am also very excited to have been invited to sing at Antonio Banderas and Eva Longoria´s second Starlite Charity Gala on August 6, also at Hotel Villa Padierna.

Photo by Kevin Horn

I usually perform at the ceremony itself. I am there to add to the couple’s day not to be the focus of it. I have sung at quite a number of weddings and enjoy them immensely. I always take the time to meet the couple beforehand and go through their song choices; it is important that they get what they want on their big day.

Photo Venue, courtesy of Hotel Puente Romano Marbella

For more information contact: Nick Holland Management & Promotion for Stephen Lloyd-Morgan nick@slmlive.com slmlive.com CONFETI 93


I WANT ONE Set up a gift list with a difference for wedding presents you’ll cherish forever

ETERNAL CALLA VASE

From Italian design company VG New Trend – a stunning glass vase with calla lilies and water illusion.

BUBBLES

From Italian design company Bosa – this fun candlestick holder comes in either a whiteglazed finish with a gold or silver ball, or precious metal in silver with a white ball.

RANUNCULUS HALF-SPHERE From Italian design company VG New Trend – hand-crafted faux flowers in purple or white with transparent and coloured glass vase.

NADNEDA From Italian design company Bosa – comes in a variety of colours and can be used as a fruit bowl or flower vase

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DAVID MARSHALL

JETA LAMP

Original aluminium antler fruit bowl by renowned sculptor David Marshall. Silk flowers by Orbis Flor.

From Italian design company VG New Trend – colourful lights suitable for outdoors as well as indoors.

All products available from Patricia Darch Interior Design & Projects Avda. Del Mar 26 Torreguadiaro (Sotogrande) Opening hours: 9:00-14:00 and 16:00-19:00 Tel: +34 956 615350 InteriorsInSpain.com

INFORMESCENZA From Italian design company Bosa – a pretty and original white-glazed fruit bowl.

CLARET BY MISSONI HOME Beautiful and colourful dinner service for fine dining

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LET’S PARTY!

You only have one chance to plan the best hen party of your life – the Confeti team can help you get it right with all the latest and most fun ideas for your last night of freedom.

your Mojitos from your ManSHAKE IT, Know hattans? Well, how about learning

SHAKE

IT BABY

HEN PECKED SWEET TOOTH What better way to spend an afternoon than making delicious cupcakes to take home? Fiona Dodson of Sweet Things by Fi will show you the tricks of the trade on how to decorate a cupcake in style. Create your own masterpieces with gorgeous, edible decorations in an exclusive session just for you and your friends to enjoy together. +34 666 584 132 sweetthingsbyfi.com

n dos often TOP TIP He o er people wh bring togeth et before. have never m h the party wit Always start now-you a getting-to-k session.

how to make them so you can impress your friends when they next come round for dinner? A cocktail lesson at the uber-trendy La Sala is the perfect way to start off your hen weekend. Learn the history of cocktails, how to free pour, how to make classic cocktails and how the equipment all works. Finish off with a cool competition where you and your friends create and name your own cocktail. And the best part? Sampling of course. Tel. +34 952 281 4145 lasalabanus.com

OASIS DEL MAR At Puro Beach DJs spin relaxing tunes from early afternoon until late night, while guests worship the sun, have a salad by the sea or lounge in the shade of the comfy interiors that are filled with inviting low sofas and cushions. A “Sunset Ceremony” kicks off the evening in the exotic party setting that is complete with music, food and drinks. The perfect hen night venue. +34 952 80 00 15 purobeach.com

FUN IN THE SUN Sunset Beach Club is the perfect base for a girlie getaway that’s as fun- filled, action-packed or laidback as you wish! Just 20 minutes from Malaga airport, the 4-star hotel is located by the beach in Benalmadena. All of the apartments are one bedroom, with complete kitchen, bathroom and terrace – ideal for up to three sharing. The most popular time of year for girlie getaways is November to March when their great value,

three-night packages start from just 59€ per person including breakfast. Spring and autumn are also available at a supplement. We are also pleased to offer any of these additional services: • Special hen party three-course menu from just 20€ per person including sangria, personalised menus and table decorations • Spa and shopping excursions • Cheerleading and salsa dancing classes

• Limousine hire • Professional photography sessions • Local bar, restaurant and nightclub reservations • Designated onsite organiser to help you plan your trip and any activities For more information contact Melissa at: m.palmer@sunsetbeachclub.com sunsetbeachclub.com

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LET’S PARTY!

Go down in a blaze of glory with Confeti’s top ideas for the ultimate bachelor party.

DAY TRIPPERS Kite surfing is probably the coolest and most demanding water sport about at the moment. You can pretty much guarantee that no-one in your stag party has tried this before, so there will be no pros putting you to shame. Tarifa, which is situated at the southern-most tip of Spain, is world famous for its year-round winds and excellent conditions for kite surfing or wind surfing. kiteschooltarifa.net

is whose e n o e m te so oom. Nomina r the gr P e I t f T a P g gets in TO or look sure he f e e l k a b i s m pens, respon ery hat hap ave a v h w l r l i e t w t No ma or you e piece n o n i back! home on your a l l i z e rid angry b

G N I R E G STAG D A O R B A

THE AFTER

PARTY

THE ULTIMATE INDULGENCE “The Champagne Spray Party” is hosted at the luxurious Ocean Club on the last Sunday of every month during the summer season. This legendary venue boasts some of the world’s largest champagne sprays. If you love partying all day long with a glamorous crowd, this is one unforgettable experience! +34 952 908 137 oceanclub.es

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Those in the know head to Tribeca 12, a trendy lounge bar club in Marbella next to Olivia Valere. The owners are a group of young friends who wanted to create a place that they themselves would like to party at. When most clubs are winding down, Tribeca is just getting started. +34 657 277 713

ON TOP OF THE WORLD

Located in one of the most sought after positions in the port, and attended by Marbella’s finest and most glamorous clubbers, the Pangea experience will not disappoint the stag or his followers. After the sun sets the venue evolves into a utopian clubbing experience like no other. With its luxurious roof terrace, breath-taking panoramic views, buzzing music area and regular DJs from the famous Sintillate, Pangea Marbella is a MUST! +34 952 908 336 pangea-club.com


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Bridal Buzz Look no further to discover the latest news, hottest trends and leading wedding companies in Spain.

Photo by David Toms son who will know all your requirements and will be there on the day to make sure everything goes like clockwork.

If it’s good enough for the

H

First Lady....

otel Villa Padierna combines the best of spa, golf and Mediterranean cuisine offering the perfect combination for an unforgettable wedding experience with a regal and elegant ambience. Located 10 minutes from Puerto Banús, this exclusive resort offers outstanding choices for any private function. A grand ballroom of 670 square metres, various terraces, a Roman amphitheatre and a charming wedding chapel are the perfect ingredients to create your dream wedding. It also provides experienced wedding planners who assist couples with every detail involved in the planning of this unique and personal event. The hotel will adapt its facilities and wedding concepts for their brides and grooms. However, any wedding has to be unique and unforgettable. For example, a typical Indian wedding would require Indian musicians during the ceremony in the outdoor amphithea102 102 CONFETI

tre, beautiful dresses and exquisite Indian dishes. The multi-use structure of the ballrooms means they can easily be transformed from a formal gala dinner to a big party, with dances between each service, live concerts and dance floors. The Hotel Villa Padierna celebrates more than 20 exceptional weddings per year, for people of many nationalities and religions from Catholics and Protestants to Hindus and Muslims. It also offers the opportunity to celebrate weddings with a large number of guests, as they welcome up to 400 people.

The hotel provides a team of highly-trained professionals with over fifteen years of total combined experience to ensure the success of your event. When booking your wedding you will be assigned your own personal Wedding Coordinator, who will take care of all your needs from the first day you meet to the wedding day. This way you only have to deal with one per-

The hotel also offers special Thermae Spa wedding packages so the bride is immaculate on her special day.

Hotel Villa Padierna features a Bride’s Journey of Beauty Roman amphitheatre with a capac- This journey lasts around six hours. ity of 400 people, the only one of its Enjoy the delicious tradition of kind in the region. being pampered and get ready for the most important day of your life. A charming, small wedding chapel is also available onsite for intimate The Bride’s Journey of Beauty weddings. includes: When celebrating at Hotel Villa Padierna, couples receive: • Honeymoon suite for the wedding night with breakfast in the restaurant and late check out • A one-off menu tasting for two or four people (based on wedding size) at the hotel’s restaurant, with special rates for additional guests • Seating arrangements • Menu cards for all wedding guests • Special accommodation rates for wedding guests

• Champagne and strawberries with chocolate upon arrival • Relaxing Salt and Oil Full Body Exfoliation • Aromatic & Relaxing Body Massage • Thermae Spa Lunch • Skin Brightener Facial • Holistic Hand and Nail treatment with hot stones (Deluxe Manicure) Camino de Brijan 29679 Estepona España Teléfono: +34 952 88 9150 hotelvillapadierna.com

Photo by David Toms


Wedding Whispers

Where dreams come true

At the fabulous El Oceano Beach Hotel there is no such thing as a typical wedding!

T

he newly-revamped El Oceano Beach Hotel is one of the most popular wedding venues on the coast. With its dazzling beachfront location, a more stunning setting is hard to imagine. An oasis of laid-back luxury, the privately owned and operated hotel always puts guest comfort and satisfaction first. What makes El Oceano even more special is the fact that its dedicated, professional team can take care of every part of your wedding all in one place. There are 40 beautifully appointed rooms, which are predominantly ocean-front mini-suites, all offering amazing views. All wedding guests will receive a discount on the standard room rates. jeremystandley.com

The decadent boutique spa can cater for of all your hair and beauty needs. If you need a massage to calm those pre-wedding jitters or maybe a facial to give you that bridal glow, you will find the finest therapists on hand to offer advice and a wide range of treatments.

Photos by David Toms

From lavish, sun-soaked weddings on the “famous” Water Front Terrace to intimate blessings in the hotel’s beautiful gardens, the wedding party can enjoy an elegant reception with fabulous cuisine from the world-class kitchen, in mesmerising and relaxed surroundings. Why not have your wedding banquet served on the Oceano Veranda, a glass-enclosed dining room seemingly “suspended” over the ocean? You can opt for three, four or even five courses of exquisite cuisine, which is impeccably presented and sure to impress your guests. Each wedding at El Oceano is both unique and special; therefore a one-to-one consultation is essential in order to give your day that personal touch. A wedding at El Oceano will undeniably create unforgettable memories for you and your guests.

El Oceano Beach Hotel, Miraflores Playa, Costa del Sol, Spain Reservations & Bookings T: +34 952 587 550 oceanohotel.com info@oceanohotel.com CONFETI 103


Wedding Whispers

Celebrate at

Holiday World H

oliday World Resort is located in one of the most privileged spots on the Mediterranean coast, between the towns of BenalmĂĄdena and Fuengirola, in the heart of the Costa del Sol. Confeti would like to introduce you to Holiday World, the ideal place to start your new life together. The exclusiveness of its venues, as well as the bespoke service makes Holiday World a unique place to celebrate your important day. The bride and groom can place all their trust in the specialised team, while also taking advantage of the personalised service from the dedicated wedding co-ordinator. Just tell them your dreams and watch them come true. Holiday World offers a one-of-akind setting with large terraces and beautiful gardens. You can choose from a range of remarkable spaces for the civil ceremony, cocktail reception and wedding banquet. 104 104 CONFETI

The Beach Club is the most popular option during summer time, as it offers the possibility to organise your wedding reception outdoors, where you can enjoy spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea.

you can opt for a civil ceremony with views over the sea, a cocktail in a Polynesian-themed corner or a wedding reception for more than 300 people in the state-of-the-art wedding room.

The Hotel Boutique Hydros Spa & Wellness is a charming hotel built to stimulate your senses. Sight, hearing, smell, touch and taste are all taken into account during your stay. The terrace of this hotel is a beautiful location to celebrate your civil ceremony. You can then have a cocktail reception before making your way to the Mar y Tierra restaurant. Here, your guests can enjoy views over the bay of Fuengirola and Benalmadena while sampling the most exclusive meals personally prepared with refinement and love by the hotel’s talented chefs.

The team have a single goal: to make each event or wedding a romantic, original and exclusive happening, so that all the guests and the newlyweds will leave with the best memories.

The Hotel Holiday Polynesia, boasting a majestic lake, exotic tropical gardens and sea views, is an innovative venue that welcomes you with the most impressive reception area in the complex. Here,

More information at: holidayworld.es


Wedding Whispers

Style

PAMPERING IN

B

ridal beauty services and relaxing pre-wedding accommodation on the Costa del Sol.

be saved if the bride is allowed time before the big day to relax away from all the hustle and bustle of preparations.

We all know the stresses and strains of preparing and planning for a wedding. However, this is increased tenfold when you choose to have your wedding abroad. In most cases the whole bridal party and guests are all residing in the same venue, so instead of relaxing before her big day, the bride can often be found looking after her guests, the groom and both families.

Bridal hair and beauty is my passion, creating a perfect radiant bride with all the finishing touches just fills me with pride. Our beauty services include, massage, facials, spray tan, manicure, pedicure, bridal hair and make-up.

During the years in our successful London salon (Sweeney Todd), which was frequented by many household names, Brett, my husband played an important part At Confeti we feel that something managing the busy beauty treatwhich should never be forgotten ment rooms, while I worked and is the pre-pampering for the star supervised the hairdressing side. of the day – the bride. She needs We have extensive knowledge of to be kept calm and relaxed, while the catering and hotel industry too, she prepares for this new chapter which increases our ability to create in her life, away from all the chaos the perfect ambience where reof the wedding day preparations. laxed, glowing brides are prepared. I really don’t think there is any other This is why we highly recommend, profession that could give me more Villa Blanca, a tranquil haven where pleasure.” you and your closest friends can be pampered the day before and, This “chic” retreat has it all. There of course, the morning of the wed- are four double bedrooms; three ding itself. Here you can get ready are en-suite with sea views, one in a relaxed, beautiful environment, single room and an ultra-modern, surrounded by only your closest two bedroom, two bathroom selffriends. Owner and hair technician contained apartment within the villa Barbara explains the idea behind gardens. There is even the option the concept, “I remember my own wedding. The stress of wanting one of the most important days of my life to be just perfect almost led me to call the whole thing off, and from what I have seen over the years of tending to brides I think that sentiment is more common than we’d like to admit. I sincerely believe that so much more time and effort can

to rent the whole premises for a maximum capacity of 14 guests. You can enjoy extensive terraces overlooking tropical gardens and a heated salt water pool, which is the perfect place to relax with a Martini cocktail or two in the night before, and then wake up to a champagne breakfast. What better way to calm those pre-wedding nerves? Ah yes, we mustn’t forget the Villa Blanca cuisine. This is all Brett’s department – being something of a wizard in the kitchen. He will carefully prepare the cuisine catering to your dietary desires, whatever your gastronomic requirements.

exclusive destinations of Marbella and Puerto Banús are only a 15-minute drive away. Remember your day, should be done your way and this is what Villa Blanca does best. For more information please contact M: +34 655 645 277 T. +34 951 978 017 bridalbeautyvillablanca.com

Each group of guests has different needs; therefore the couple will do their utmost to be flexible with their accommodation facilities. Whether it’s just the bride or the entire bridal party. Whether the stay is for the day and night prior to the wedding, a long weekend or even the entire week; the length of your stay is entirely up to you. Even if you only want your hair and make-up doing on the actual day, Villa Blanca is still at your service. The Villa is ideally situated a short walk from all the essential amenities: beach, shops, restaurants, bars, tennis and golf course. The

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Wedding Whispers Glamour

GO FOR

Ocean Club can now offer its services and premises for exclusive hire for weddings. Hailed as one of Europe’s largest beachside venues Ocean Club is set in luxurious surroundings located on the front line of the beach in the heart of Puerto Banús. The undisputed jewel, and the focus of the venue, is the swimming pool, which is recognised as one of the largest in Europe! Ocean Club combines outstanding quality with award-winning service that is achieved through its dynamic and highly-qualified team of around 100 young, multi-national service professionals.

The restaurant is the key to the success of Ocean Club Marbella and this season its Belgian Michelin star chef offers a creative menu based on classic French cuisine fused with Mediterranean flavours. Also on offer are dishes from the traditional Asian kitchen and a careful selection of homemade desserts, which complete the gastronomic experience. Ocean Club is the ideal location for making the most out of the sun, sea and sand. It is also a perfect location for pre or post-wedding parties, as it can be hired exclusively in the evening. For a wedding event that everyone will remember look no further than Ocean Club. +34 952 908 137 oceanclub.es

MEMORABLE

& Unique

With more than 30 years’ experience of providing wedding services both in the UK and Spain, Garry Waite and his team at El Rincón de Gvadalpin will ensure that every detail of your wedding day is perfect. The restaurant is situated in the five star Gran Hotel Gvadalpin Banús on the beach and close to the famous Puerto Banús, Marbella, Spain. From helping you to select the right food for the occasion to supplying everything from luxury suites and hotel rooms, to flowers, wedding cakes, photographers, videos, musicians and even your own Master of Ceremonies, you can rely on the experienced team at El Rincón to step up to the mark.

The restaurant can hold small wedding receptions from an intimate table for 12 to a room full of 50. For larger parties the whole restaurant can cater for up to 100. The hotel itself boasts a beautiful, purpose built banqueting suite to hold over 200. The choice of menus and price is yours. From a simple sit down menu to a lavish buffet or a grand gastronomic extravaganza, they will help and guide you make the right choices to fit your budget.

Floral

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Be it a simple wedding breakfast, an extravagant wedding breakfast (€35 - €80), a wedding lunch (€35 – €65) or the chef’s seven course tasting menu (€70 +), you can rest assured that not only will the memories of a perfect day remain with you forever, but also the value and quality of the food and wine enjoyed by you and your guests. For any further information or questions you may have, do not hesitate to contact Garry Waite, personally, on +34 629 273 765 rinconguadalpin.com

DELIGHT

With 30 years’ experience in floristry, James Bailie has designed floral displays all over Ireland, the UK and here on the Costa del Sol. With past clients including pop stars and royalty, James’ attention to detail ensures brides the perfect special day. He sees the trends for 2011 as rustic chic, with arrangements having a “back to real floristry” feel, meaning elegant yet simple pieces. Bouquets are more popularly wired rather than hand-tied together this year, reaffirming James’ concept that less is more. He sees the bride’s bouquet as a piece of jewellery that should

complement the dress rather than overpower it. Regarding table arrangements, small and simple is the key. The wedding day brings family and friends together to celebrate the love of two people, and James’ arrangements reflect this; he wants to create romance and to make dreams reality. And through private consultations and simple, bespoke, floral designs, he makes sure the day is all about you. +34 677 184 639 +353 868 519 745 jamesbailie.net


Catering

For Your Every Need From your initial meeting, the Terra Sana team provides a personal and bespoke service. They will design the menus closely with the couple and help with all sorts of arrangements that other caterers on the coast can’t help with (from lighting, flowers and venue hire, to entertainment, gifts and guest accommodation). This holistic service, which offers so much more than providing mouth-watering menus, has made Terra Sana’s name as the leading caterer in Marbella. There is no wedding too large and no request too small for the resourceful and energetic Terra Sana wedding team. They have an enviable list

of venues from private villas in Marbella, manor houses in Tarifa with stunning views to Africa, beach bars in Estepona, you will be spoilt for choice! No matter what the budget, style or size, Terra Sana wedding caterers can help make the day everything that the couple dreams of and more, by adding a little bit of that indefinable Terra Sana magic. If you want help creating your dream wedding in the sun, or you want information about the different types of catering Terra Sana offer, call Toni Foran on: +34 639 626 096 or visit: terrasanacateringmarbella.com

The Show Must Go On Luxury Lifestyle Shows and Wedding Fairs, source only the most elite of exhibitors, venues, people and places to bring a great new season of Luxury Lifestyle Shows to the Costa del Sol. They have created a series of exciting events designed to attract aspiring families looking for the “very best” products and services, alongside value for money, with the latest innovation, ideas, attractions and interests. From a local Spanish Wedding Fair, to the latest fashions from around the world, the Luxury Lifestyle Show has something for

everyone: stylish home wares, cars, travel and accommodation, to insurance, financing and life coaching, the latest beauty products and treatments, plus gifts, jewellery and more! Entertainment throughout the weekend and a fun lively atmosphere will ensure a great day out for all the family. The team at Confeti will be on hand to answer any wedding or eventrelated questions. For more information please go to luxury.vpweb.co.uk For show dates see page 64

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DIRECTORY

Cakes Cakes Couture: +34 693 379 397; cakecouturemarbella.com Delicious Cakes and Treats: +34 666 584 132; deliciouscakesandtreats.com

Sabering: +34 952 815 398, +34 607 942 167; nermans.com Scarlett Entertainment: +44 1626 356 348; scarlettentertainment.com Stephen Lloyd-Morgan: slmlive.com

Sweet Things by Fi: +34 697 228 088; sweetthingsbyfi.com

Fashion & Accessories Browns: brownsfashion.com

Catering Terra Sana: +34 639 626 096; terrasanacateringmarbella.com

Net-A-Porter: net-a-porter.com

FiestaSol: +34 952 898 746; fiestasol.com Entertainment Amanda Rosa: + 34 660 286 790; amanda-rosa.com DJ Laurie Scott: +34 952 592 133; weddingdjspain.com Laura Elen +34 661 36 60 99; lauraelen.com Musibodas: +34 660 75 32 46; classicalmusicweddings.weebly.com Pete Black: +34 697 128 646; peteblackmedia.webs.com

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Hair & Beauty Halo Marbella: +34 952 865 796; halosalons.com Princess-bride: +34 691 061 484; princess-bride.co.uk

Wedding Dress Emporiums Fi Santamaria Couture Bridalwear & Accessories: +34 636 865 154; fisantamaria.com

Reflections: +34 902 325 324; reflectionsmarbella.com

Pronovias: pronovias.com

Villa Blanca: +34 655 645 277, +34 951 978 017; bridalbeautyvillablanca.com

Ian Stuart: ianstuartbrides.com

Vera Wang: verawangonweddings.com Wedding Lists Patricia Darch Interiors: +34 956 615 350; interiorsinspain.com

Olivier Laudus London:+44 208 374 1239; olivierlaudus.com

Photography Anna Gazda: +34 633 654 476; limelight.pl

Florists James Bailie: +34 677 184 639, +353 868 519 745; jamesbailie.net

David Toms: +34 690 656 120; davidtoms-weddings.com

Wedding Planners Alhambra Weddings: +34 958 592 680; alhambraweddings.com

Flor Valentin: +34 669 061 234; florvalentin.es

Gary Tapp - Your Wedding Moments: +34 600 545 032; yourweddingmoments.com

Celebrations in Spain: +34 952 535 688; celebrationsinspain.com

Gibral Flora: +350 200 42655; gibral-flora.gi

Jeremy Standley: +34 607 717 565; jeremystandley.com

Med Weddings:+34 679 851 204, +350 5800 8355; www.medweddings.com

General Humanist Wedding Celebrant: malagaminister.com

Julia Matinez: +34 675 835 834, +44 (0)7769315251; shootthebride.eu

Reviva Weddings: +34 951 271 220; reviva-weddings.com

Owen Farrell Photography: Spain +34 670 664 341, Ireland +353 872682832; owenfarrellphotography.com

Spanish Dream Weddings: +34 951 317 367; spanishdreamweddings.com

Sandra Ma単as Boutique Photography: +34 656 903 498; sandramanas.com

Sunshine Weddings Spain: +34 679 743 986, +44 (0) 208 731 4353; sunshineweddingsspain.com

Ocean Clinic: +34 951 775 518; oceanclinic.net


Ugo Zaldi

DATES FOR YOUR

Diary

The White Gallery London Photo by Jeremy Standley Wedding Shows Luxury Lifestyle Shows:+34 662 597 288; luxury.vpweb.co.uk Perfect Wedding And Events Expo +34 699 186 127

Ocean Club: +34 952 908 137; oceanclub.es Puro Beach: +34 972 897 871; purobeach.com

White Gallery London whitegallery.com

Small World CafĂŠ: +34 952 771 046; smallworldcafe.com

Venues Beach House: +34 952 839 458; marbellabeachhouse.com

Sunset Beach Club Hotel: +34 952 579 400; sunsetbeachclub.com

Buddha Beach: +34 952 813 882; buddhabeachbanus.com

Tamisa Golf Hotel: +34 952 585 988; hoteltamisagolf.com

Cortjo Del Marques: +34 958 340 077, +34 678 334 884; cortijodelmarques.com

The Rock Hotel: +350 200 73000; rockhotelgibraltar.com

El Oceano Beach Hotel: +34 952 587 550; oceanohotel.com El Rincon de Gvadalpin Restaurant: +34 629 273 765; rinconguadalpin.com Holiday World Resort: +34 952 579 757; holidayworld.es Finca CortesĂ­n: fincacortesin.com Mons Calpe Suite: +350 200 79478; monscalpesuite.com

Tribeca 12: +34 657 277 713 Villa Blanca: +34 655 645 277, +34 951 978 017; bridalbeautyvillablanca.com TikiTano: +34 952 798 449; tikitano.com Villa Del Mar: +34 952 822 211; marbellaclub.com Villa Padierna: +34 952 88 9150; hotelvillapadierna.com

22-24 May 2011, Battersea Park, Chelsea, London4-6 March Following the success of last year, the very finest international bridal wear designers will come together to stage what is now the most prestigious and glamorous event in the bridal events calendar. White Gallery London will be staged at Battersea Evolution, a thoroughly-contemporary purpose-built environment that offers striking space solutions for design-led exhibitions.

Bridal Fayre 16 June 2011, Mons Calpe Suite cable car station, Gibraltar. Leading wedding-related companies from Gibraltar and Spain will be showcasing their latest services and products. All money raised will be donated to two local charities.

Luxury Lifestyle Shows 25-26 June 2011, Valparaiso, Mijas Pueblo 28 - 20 July 2011, Cala Mijas Hotel, La Cala de Mijas 27 - 28 August 2011, Puente Romano Hotel, Marbella The ultimate in opulent living can be found at the Luxury Lifestyle Shows. Whether you are planning your wedding, birthday, anniversary or a special occasion, you will be able to find everything you need all under one roof. CONFETI 109


Congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Love from theConfeti Team

110 110 CONFETI



22-24 May 2011 Battersea Park LONDON shOwcasiNg the fiNest iN BriDaL DesigN aLaN haNNah aMaNDa wakeLey aNOushka g BaBe BLue BriDaLwear cLaire PettiBONe cyMBeLiNe DaviD fieLDeN geMy cOuture haLO & cO harriet wiLDe hOLLywOOD DreaMs iaN stuart ivOry & cO Jesus PeirO JOhaNNa hehir katzi JeweLLery Lea-aNN BeLter LusaN MaNDONgus LyN ashwOrth Matthew wiLLiaMsON MkariN My LaDy OLivia cOuture PeNrOse PePe BOteLLa POLLy eDwarDs racheL siMPsON ritva westeNius sassi hOLfOrD stePhaNie aLLiN stePhaNie BrOwNe stewart ParviN ugO zaLDi vivieN sheriff MiLLiNery…

whitegallery.com 112 CONFETI

image by Jesus Peiro

100% exquisite bridal design


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