Love Our Wedding - March 2017

LOVEOURWEDDINGMAG.COM

ISSUE 21 • MARCH 2017

275 OF THE DREAMIEST DETAILS! FIND YOUR SHOES, JEWELLERY, DECOR & MORE INSIDE

Make a wish!

GREAT IDEAS FOR YOUR GIFT LIST

Real-life weddings

28 PAGES OF BEAUTIFUL & INSPIRING BIG DAYS WHAT KIND OF w BRIDE ARE YOU? TAKE OUR FUN QUIZ TO FIND OUT! P43

DRESS TO IMPRESS TAKE YOUR PICK FROM THE BEST BRIDAL DESIGNS

WIN DRESSES FOR YOU AND YO UR BRIDESMAIDS WORTH £3,000!

HOW TO CUT THE GUEST LIST + YOUR ULTIMATE W-DAY CHECKLIST

ELLIS BRIDALS

OUR COVER STAR TALKS ABOUT THEIR CHIC LONDON LABEL

ELLISBRIDALS.COM

RO M A N T I C A W W W. RO M ANT ICAO FD E V O N .C O .UK

OfficialMonCheriEurope

@moncherieurope

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Sonia

CONTACT US LOV E OUR

114

116

LOVE ME DO FIND SOME ROMANTIC DETAILS TO COMPLETE YOUR LOVED-UP THEME

MARCH 2017

CONTENTS INSIDE THIS ISSUE

53 WIN YOUR DREAM DRESS Your chance to win a breathtaking gown from Casablanca Bridal worth up to £2,000!

WINTER WONDERLAND GET SOME WINTRY INSPIRATION FROM THIS CHIC SHOOT

SALES EXECUTIVE Martha Cooke martha@loveourweddingmag.com Mobile: 07877 449122

ISSUE 21 • MARCH 2017

275 OF THE DREAMIEST DETAILS! FIND YOUR SHOES, JEWELLERY, DECOR & MORE INSIDE

Make a wish!

GREAT IDEAS FOR YOUR GIFT LIST

Real-life weddings

32 PAGES OF BEAUTIFUL & INSPIRING BIG DAYS WHAT KIND OF w BRIDE ARE YOU? TAKE OUR FUN QUIZ TO FIND OUT! P43

DRESS TO IMPRESS

SALES EXECUTIVE Pippa Florijn pippa@loveourweddingmag.com Mobile: 07725 539115

TAKE YOUR PICK FROM THE BEST BRIDAL DESIGNS

WIN DRESSES FOR YOU AND YOUR BRIDESMAIDS WORTH £3,000!

HOW TO CUT THE GUEST LIST + YOUR ULTIMATE W-DAY CHECKLIST

ELLIS BRIDALS

OUR COVER STARS TELL US ABOUT THE NEW COLLECTION

LOW21_Cover Ellis 2AA.indd 1

12/01/2017 15:59

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BEAUTIFUL BRIDAL BACKS GORGEOUS GOWNS FROM EVERY ANGLE

@LoveOurWedMag LoveOurWedding loveourweddingmag

104 SLIM AND SWEET Slimming World recipes for sweet-toothed brides

LoveOurWedMag

151

HOW TO CUT THE GUEST LIST TOP TIPS FOR KEEPING COSTS DOWN

159 HOW TO ENTERTAIN YOUR GUESTS Great ideas for all ages!

Love Our Wedding is published by: Meant To Be Media Ltd, 68a Oldham Road, Manchester M4 5EE. Tel: 0161 236 6712

EXCLUSIVE FEATURES

www.loveourweddingmag.com www.meanttobemedia.com

34 THE AMAZING BLUE BY ENZOANI COLLECTION 46 A CLOSER LOOK AT THE ALLURE BRIDALS COLLECTIONS 84 TOP PLUS-SIZE DESIGNS 172 THE BEST HONEYMOON GIFT IDEAS YEAR-ROUND

ONLINE EDITOR Sophie Grabham sophie@loveourweddingmag.com CONTRIBUTORS Izzy Hicks

89 WIN YOUR BRIDESMAID DRESSES WORTH £1,000 Four bridesmaid dresses up for grabs from June Peony

147 THE WEDDING CHECKLIST Tick off this essential list as you go

ART DIRECTOR Andy Allen andy@loveourweddingmag.com Mobile: 07855 587219

LOVEOURWEDDINGMAG.COM

76 GRACEFUL GODDESS An elegant shoot that proves all eyes are always on the bride

118 REAL-LIFE WEDDING SPECIAL 28 pages of inspirational big days

EDITOR Jade Pepperell jade@loveourweddingmag.com Mobile: 07885 397120

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WHAT KIND OF BRIDE ARE YOU? ARE YOU LAIDBACK OR A REAL BRIDEZILLA?!

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DREAMY DRESSES A STUNNING SELECTION OF WEDDING GOWNS FOR THIS YEAR’S BRIDES

Love Our Wedding magazine has a readership in excess of 20,000. The magazine is distributed every month throughout the UK to selected bridal boutiques, wedding venues and wedding fairs. Love Our Wedding is an official partner of the BBSA, The National Wedding Show, Brides Up North, The Wedding Affair, White Gallery and The UK Wedding Shows.

w w w. e n zoa n i .co m

www.morilee.co.uk 8101

www.modeca.com

Alexia

New 2018 Modeca collection coming soon to a bridal store near you

www.modeca.com

Beatrice

New 2018 Le Papillon by Modeca collection coming soon to a bridal store near you

Kenneth Kenneth Wi Winston nston The Ella Rosa Collection The Ella Rosa Collection E L L A R O S A B R I D A L . C O M E L L A R O S A B R I D A L . C O M

DRESS STYLE POPPY

DONNASALADO.COM

LOVE OUR WEDDING

1

Editor’s letter S

pring is finally upon us, and that can only mean one thing – lots of you are soon to be saying ‘I do’! To celebrate, we’ve put together this fabulous real wedding special, packed full of beautiful big days, as well as some great features to help you during every stage of the planning process...

This issue, you can find out how to cut the guest list without offending anyone (page 151), discover the best new ways to keep your guests entertained (page 159) and take our super-fun quiz to find out what kind of bride you are (page 43).

My top pick this month has to be our fabulous competitions, where you have the chance to win a beautiful bridal gown from Casablanca Bridal (page 53) as well as four pretty bridesmaid dresses from June Peony (page 89). You’ve got Jade Pepperell to be in it to win it, so pop over to loveourweddingmag.com to enter for Publishing Editor your chance to win big!

2 My favourite picks this month!

1. I love this save the date from Ivy Inks – simple and stylish 2. Mark Lesley’s new collection has lots of wowfactor dresses, but Style 7206 is my top pick 3. This triple strand bracelet by Rosie Willett is some dreamy arm candy for just £71 4. Who doesn’t love Jimmy Choo?! This glittery heel for £695 is absolutely stunning 5. The new Laurel Lime collection has landed, and it’s oh-so pretty! Here’s the gorgeous Juniper hairvine, £135

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5

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www.benjaminroberts.co.uk

RO M A N T I C A W W W. RO M ANT ICAO FD EVON. C O .UK

IVORY & CO MARTINA LIANA BELOVED BY CASABLANCA RONALD JOYCE

SO SASSI

ELBETH GILLIS

MODECA

JASMINE BRIDAL STELLA YORK KENNETH WINSTON

Beautiful 24 ♥ L OV E O U R W E D D I N G ♥ M A R C H 2 0 1 7

LOVE THE DRESS

VEROMIA ELLA ROSA

WENDY MAKIN ENGLISH ROSE

CATHERINE PARRY

PHIL COLLINS BRIDAL

PRONOVIAS RONALD JOYCE

JUSTIN ALEXANDER MORI LEE

Brides

We pick our favourite designs with the most intricate details to make you feel like a superstar!

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justinalexander.com

LOVE THE DRESS

CASABLANCA BRIDAL

DIANE LEGRAND MARK LESLEY

ALLURE BRIDALS

GRACE PHILIPS

DAISY BY ALEXIA

ELLA ROSA DAVID TUTERA FOR MON CHERI

AMARE COUTURE

ALEXIA DESIGNS

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BENJAMIN ROBERTS KELSEY ROSE

SPECIAL DAY HOUSE OF MOOSHKI

DAVID TUTERA FOR MON CHERI

ESSENSE OF AUSTRALIA

LOUISE BENTLEY CHLOE BRIDALS ENZOANI JUSTIN ALEXANDER

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M A R K L E S L E Y. CO . UK D R ESS ST Y LE 7202D

LOVE THE DRESS

ALLURE BRIDALS ETERNITY BRIDE

LQ DESIGNS BEAUTIFUL BY ENZOANI

CHANTICLEER

RONALD JOYCE

SOPHIA TOLLI

MORI LEE

NOVABELLA

SWEETHEART

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LOVE THE COLLECTION

BLUE BY ENZOANI Forget the colour, these spectacular wedding dresses could be your ‘something blue’!

JADA THIS OH-SO LUXURIOUS DESIGN IS SENDING OUR STYLE RADAR INTO OVERDRIVE! THE PERFECT CHOICE FOR A GRAND WEDDING THEME

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STYLE 1589 JADORIE YOUR GIRLS WILL OFF-THE-SHOULDERS LOOK PRETTY IN AREVERY TOP CHOICE THIS GORGEOUS REDTHIS RIGHT NOW, AND VIOLET LACYDRESS. NUMBER IS ONE WEOF LOVE THETHE BEST OPTIONS CAPPED SLEEVES OUT THERE FOR 2017

LOVE THE LABEL

JIN WE ADORE THE MERMAID SKIRT ON THIS FIT-AND-FLARE DRESS IN A GOLDEN HUE WITH LACE ADORNMENTS

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JOSETTA MODERN FAIRYTALE DRESSES DON’T COME MUCH MORE BEAUTIFUL THAN THIS INCREDIBLE GOWN

JANINE GET THE SILVER SCREEN SIREN LOOK IN THIS BODYSKIMMING GOWN WITH CRYSTALDETAILED STRAPS

JEMMA PEAR-SHAPED BRIDES, THIS DRESS IS PERFECT FOR YOU! WE LOVE THE SPARKLING WAIST AND SWEETHEART NECKLINE COMPLETED WITH THE FLOWING SKIRT

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LOVE THE LABEL

JURI OFFERING BRIDES SOPHISTICATION WITH JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF SEXY, THIS SPECTACULAR GOWN IS DIVINE

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F I ND YOUR

DREAM DRESS Use our handy tool to search through 1000’s of dresses online for all the bridal party, then click to find your nearest stockist!

www.findyourdreamdress.co.uk

b a d g l ey m i s c h k a . c om

LOVE THE LABEL

STYLE 19093

STYLE 12253

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH TELL US ABOUT ELLIS BRIDALS

Ellis Bridals is the creation of one very forward-thinking woman, Ada Ellis, who back in the 1900’s created bespoke fashion pieces for the society women of her day. When Ada met and subsequently married the love of her life, Sam, in 1910 she knew exactly what she wanted to wear and so made her own beautiful wedding dress. On her big day she was surrounded by some of the most stylish women in London and soon after she was flooded with requests for her bridal designs. The business blossomed, the couple became a family and their children grew up surrounded by their parents’ devotion to design. In turn, my son James and I have become the co-creators of the legacy that continues to charm and enchant brides globally. Ellis Bridals is now over 100 years old, a century of living heritage that continues to inform and refine the design process.

WHAT MAKES ELLIS GOWNS SO UNIQUE?

When you choose Ellis Bridals, you are taking home a dress

Ellis Bridals

We caught up with Creative Director, Regine Ellis, to find out more about this chic London-based label designed by an awardwinning team in the UK that knows exactly how to make you look and feel how you had always dreamed on your big day.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OUR BRIDES STARTING THEIR DRESS SEARCH?

Don’t be too narrow-minded.

We hear it time and time again that brides went into a STYLE 12254 store with

a particular style in mind and walked out with something completely different! Try on a few different shapes and styles, and let the store assistants objectively guide you in what looks best for your colouring and figure.You may be truly surprised by what dress you end up choosing!

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT NEXT FROM ELLIS BRIDALS?

trend for this coming season and have delicately applied it to thread colouring and used it in our custom floral embroideries and laces. The way it subtly shines in the light is really magical.

To see the latest collections from Ellis Bridals, visit ellisbridals.com.

STYLE 18036

We see the use of colour and metallic embroidery as a big

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What kind of bride-to-be are you?

Every bride plans her big day differently – take this fun quiz to find out what kind of bride you are!

4) Which part of the wedding planning are you dreading the most?

A) Family members asking why you’re not having a ‘proper’ wedding.

B) All the unnecessary details.

You could happily just elope or go to a registry office.

C) The seating plan and guest list. So many tough decisions!

5) What has your maid of honour organised for your hen party?

A) An awesome zombiehunting experience in an abandoned mental hospital.

B) Nothing huge – a meal out and a couple of drinks in your local cocktail bar.

PHY

week looking at Pinterest trying to work out which flowers to choose instead.

D) You wish you’d known sooner, but work with your florist to find a similar-looking A) You’re not having a bloom that’s in budget. bridal party, so she has no E) Pay extra to have the bridesmaids to match anyway! flowers flown in from abroad.

B) Say nothing.You really don’t This is your dream bouquet, mind enough to start a fight after all! over it.

C) Ask your fiancé and your 3) You’ve heard that bridesmaids whether you your fiancé’s best man should say something before has got a particularly making a decision. ‘lively’ speech planned.

D) Buy her a fascinator or What do you do? jacket as a gift – it’ll mean she’ll look like part of the A) You’re not worried – you group but won’t match the know that you and your maid bridesmaids exactly. of honour will get him back in E) Tell her that she needs to your joint speech! change her dress.

B) Decide to go with the flow and just cross your fingers that 2) Your florist calls to it won’t be too blue. tell you that your dream C) Worry about it for ages, wedding flowers won’t and eventually ask your fiancé be in season for your big to ask the best man to tone day. How do you react? it down.

D) You’re not too concerned, A) It’s fine, you’ll make paper but you gently remind the flowers out of comic books to best man that your elderly fill in the gaps. grandparents will be present!

B) You’re not that fussed E) Ask the best man to send about the flowers, so you tell the speech over to you so you her to surprise you on the day. can vet it.You don’t want to be C) Panic and spend the next embarrassed on your big day!

BELLE MOMENTI PHOTOGRA

1) Your future motherin-law has picked a gown that’s similar to the bridesmaid dresses.

What do you do?

D) Having to chase the RSVPs.You’re trying to be relaxed about the whole thing but it’s really starting to get on your nerves!

E) It being over! You only get to be a bride once, and you’re going to enjoy every minute of it.

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And you’ve asked her to keep the strippers away from nan!

E) You gave her a list of overseas villas to choose from so that you and the girls can jet off for the weekend.

PEPPERMINT LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY

C) You have no idea! You’ve completely delegated to her because you already have too much on your plate.

D) A spa day with the family, then a night out with the girls.

You have dressing gowns and matching t-shirts bought, too.

6) What’s your prewedding diet and exercise routine like?

A) You refuse to change anything about yourself for the wedding – except maybe getting a pre-wedding tattoo.

B) What on earth is a prewedding diet? Is that a thing?

C) You’ve tried Atkins, 5:2 and paleo, but you can’t seem to find a plan that works best for you. Now to try meal planning...

D) You’re eating a bit healthier and have signed up for the gym, but you’re not going to beat yourself up if you only lose a bit of weight.

E) You’ve hired a personal trainer to whip you into shape for the big day. There’s no point buying the dream dress if you’re not going to look perfect in it!

7) How did you find dress shopping?

A) You’re getting your dress made bespoke as you didn’t find anything unique enough.

B) Fine! You went to a local boutique with your fiancé and picked the fourth dress you tried on. No big deal.

C) You asked everyone’s opinions three times (including strangers in the shop!) and left without a dress because you needed time to think about it.

D) You had a great time with your bridesmaids, and visited three or four boutiques before finding ‘the one’.

E) You couldn’t choose between your two favourite designer gowns, so you bought both! It’s expected to have a costume change these days.

8) Which of these phrases are you mostly likely to be overheard saying?

A) As long as it’s not boring!

B) I don’t mind, whatever C) I’m not sure – what do you think?

D) This should work for everyone E) I just want it how I want it!

You’ve finished the test! Now see which letter you chose most often and see which type of bride you are, below!

THE ANSWERS Mostly As – you're a Non-Traditional Bride You've never been one of those girls who dreamt about a white wedding, and now your big day is here you're determined to do it your way. Forget wedding traditions – you're breaking every rule in the book, and having the time of your life doing it! Just remember that in your effort to have a unique, creative day that's different from everyone else, you can sometimes burn yourself out (or go over budget!).

Mostly Bs – you're a Laidback Bride You're so laidback you're practically horizontal! All you care about is getting married to your fiancé, and you don't see why people make such a huge fuss about wedding planning. That attitude is fantastic when it comes to keeping things in budget or having a relaxed wedding day, but don't get so chilled about everything that you forget to make decisions! Get all your ducks in a row when it comes to the formalities, and then you can have the wedding you like without running into issues on the day.

Mostly Cs – you're an Indecisive Bride Calm down, bride-to-be! You're putting so much pressure on your big day that you can't make any decisions! Take some time out from wedding 44 ♥ L OV E O U R W E D D I N G ♥ M A R C H 2 0 1 7

planning to remember that this is supposed to be a fun experience – have a spa day with your bridesmaids or have a dinner date with your fiancé where wedding talk is banned. Make a list of your top 5 priorities for the big day, and focus on putting your energy into those decisions. Everything else can be delegated or just isn't as important.

Mostly Ds – you're a Balanced Bride Congratulations! You're taking wedding planning in your stride, without letting it stress you out too much or take over your life.Your wedding is important to you, and know what you want for the big day, but you're happy to compromise when it comes to the little details. After all, the only thing that matters is you're marrying the love of your life!

Mostly Es – you're a Perfectionist Bride You've been dreaming of this day for a long time, and now it's here you want to make sure everything is picture-perfect, from the Instagram-worthy bridesmaid dresses to the crystal centrepieces you saw on Pinterest.

However, in your quest for perfection you can sometimes ruffle some feathers when things don't go your way! Relax a little – it's not worth ruining friendships over, and your focus should be on celebrating your love.

www.dianelegrand.eu

LOVE THE LABEL

STYLE 9401 STYLE 9404

STYLE 9408

THE SPRING 2017 COLLECTION

Allure Bridals Prepare to fall in love all over again with the brand new designs from this on-trend label

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e’d just about got to grips with the beauty of the Fall 2016 collection from Allure Bridals, and then they outdo themselves with the incredible Spring 2017 designs! Featuring the glamorous

lines and embellishments we’ve come to know and love from this sought-after label, the new dresses do not disappoint!

Here are some of our favourites in the collection, but you must check them all out now at allurebridals.com.

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STYLE 9416

SEE MORE BEAUTIFUL DRESSES FROM ALLURE BRIDALS AND FIND A STOCKIST NEAR YOU AT FINDYOURDREAMDRESS.CO.UK

STYLE 9411

LOVEOURWEDDINGMAG.COM

ISSUE 20 • FEBRUARY 2017

Real STYLE 9425

Brides

REAL WEDDINGS WITH THE WOW FACTOR

WHERE TO MARRY ABROAD & HONEYMOON IN EVERY SEASON READINGS & MUSIC IDEAS THE SOUNDTRACK TO YOUR DAY – SORTED!

ALLURE BRIDALS

w

TICKING ALL OUR TREND BOXES FOR 2017!

SHE’S IN FASHION! A BUMPER ISSUE OF THE BEST BRIDAL DRESSES

Curvy couture

PRETTY PLUS-SIZE STYLES FOR FULLER FIGURES

WIN PRIZES WORTH £10K!

DESIGNER DRESSES, DECOR, STATIONERY & MUCH MORE, P164

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30/12/2016 19:45

COVER STAR CUTIE! STYLE 9425 WAS THE STAR OF ISSUE 20’S COVER LAST MONTH

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“Exquisite details beyond luxury�

To become a stockist, please call 0121 778 6066 for more information

Birmingham 0121 778 6066

www.junepeonybridal.com

LOVE THE DRESS

REACH BRIDAL PERFECTION WITH

WIN!

CASABLANCA A fantastic opportunity to win your very own Casablanca Bridal gown worth up to £2,000!

H

ave you started searching for your perfect wedding dress?

Then you’ve most likely come across the amazing designs by Casablanca Bridal!

This amazing American label has collections to die for, offering elegant, romantic styles that will make you feel like a superstar. This month, we’ve teamed up with Casablanca Bridal to offer one lucky reader the chance to win one of their gorgeous dresses from the new collection, worth up to £2,000!

Read on to find out how to enter, and start searching for your favourite designs now at casablancabridal.com.

HOW TO ENTER Pop over to loveourweddingmag.com today to answer a simple question.

Competition closes 15th March 2017. Good luck!

T&Cs • Prize winner must be a genuine bride-to-be. Prize is strictly not for resale, is non transferable and subject to availability.

No cash or prize alternative. Minimum delivery time frame will be 30 days prior to wedding. Winner must be willing to travel to try on gowns at an authorised retailer. Delivery not included.

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P H I L C O L L I N S B R I DA L WWW. PHILCOLLINSBR I D AL .C O.U K

justinalexander.com

LOVE THE LABEL

FASHION FOCUS

Opulence

H

ave you recently got engaged? Don’t know where to start looking for your dream dress? Don’t worry!

If you want luxury without the hefty price tag, Opulence by Romantica is perfect for you. With a diverse range of gowns for all silhouettes, and featuring all the top trends from pretty backs to illusion necklines, this collection should top your wish list. See more at romanticaofdevon.co.uk.

DENMARK GO FOR A TRADITIONAL FAIRYTALE STYLE WITH THIS PRINCESS-CUT DRESS

DUBAI SIZZLE IN THIS CHAMPAGNECOLOURED DESIGN WITH SPLASHES OF SPARKLE

HAWAII WE LOVE THE LEAFY DETAILS ON THE ILLUSION HIGH NECKLINE – SO ELEGANT AND CLASSY

PALMA THIS SEXY FIT-AND-FLARE GOWN WITH A FRILLY MERMAID SKIRT IS HOT PROPERTY!

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W W W. S O P H I AT O L L I . C O . U K OfficialMonCheriEurope

@moncherieurope

MONTE

For more information contact Elizabeth Morton at uksales@wendymakin.co.uk or phone 07771 542042 www.wendymakin.com PREMIUM STOCKISTS Emma Louise Designs Sunningdale, Ascot 01344 882445 The Dressing Rooms Halesowen, Birmingham 0121 423 2777 Shade Bridal West Bridgford, Nottingham 0115 982 2820

JUSTIN ALEXANDER

MADISON JAMES

ENGLISH ROSE

PHIL COLLINS

RONALD JOYCE

LOVE THE DRESS

Back to the future...

MODECA

MODECA

CALLISTA

MARK LESLEY

KENNETH WINSTON

ALLURE WOMEN

SOPHIA TOLLI LADYBIRD

These dreamy new dresses reveal the hottest back details to look out for in 2017

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ELBETH GILLIS

IVORY & CO

CHANTICLEER

ENZOANI

CATHERINE PARRY

BLUE BY ENZOANI

SPECIAL DAY

BADGLEY MISCHKA

MORI LEE

ELLIS BRIDALS

LOVE THE DRESS

sinceritybridal.com

0208 368 1500 • www.englishrosebridal.co.uk

0208 368 1500 • www.whiterosebridal.com

www.ivoryandcobridal.co.uk www.ivoryandcotiaras.co.uk info@ivoryandcobridal.co.uk 01684 592030

LOVE THE LABEL

Flawless design, incredible silhouettes and the finest details await in this chic new collection

T

DONNA SALADO

aking a look at the hottest trends in bridal right now, the brand new Donna Salado collection ticks every single box!

Created right here in the UK by Donna, who also designs the beautiful dresses for Mark Lesley, homegrown wedding dresses have never looked better. In fact, we’d go as far to say that Donna’s latest collection has taken her designs up another level, offering a luxurious, couture feel without the hefty price tag. Take a look at all the stunning new gowns now at donnasalado.com and find a stockist near you!

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LOVE THE DRESS

F IND YOUR

DREAM DRESS

CHECK OUT THE BRAND NEW WEBSITE TODAY!

46-48 King St Cambridge CB1 1LN 01223 323 230 info@burrbridal.co.uk burrbridal.co.uk Stockists of • Mia Mia • Madison James • Annais Bridal • Sophia Tolli • Alan Hannah • La Sposa • Sottero & Midgley • Rosa Clara • Suzanne Neville KIM BURR

We caught up with the owners of Britain’s best bridal boutiques to discover their favourite designs

BURR BRIDAL Our dream dress...

That’s a hard call, but I will say the Madison James dress style MJ308. The beading on the gown is exquisite and I love the soft organza ruffles on the skirt.

We have this beautiful dress available in soft champagne and ivory. It’s certainly got the wow factor!

Our beautiful bridal shop, Burr Bridal, is situated in the historic city of Cambridge. We welcome brides to view our stunning collections of wedding dresses sourced from all over the world from leading designers, and arguably among the best in Cambridge, Essex and Hertfordshire.

STYLE MJ308 BY MADISON JAMES

CATHERINE BLADE

Goose Hill House Ashford Hill Road Headley RG19 8AT

01635 268 963 catherine@bladesbridal.co.uk bladesbridal.co.uk Stockists of • Catherine Blades Couture

BLADES BRIDAL Our luxurious Blades Bridal studio is set in the beautiful tranquil countryside, on the Hampshire Berkshire border.

Catherine will transform your ideas into reality, working with you to create exclusive handcrafted bespoke wedding gowns, that are unique to you, made using the finest materials.

Our dream dress...

I love to add a touch of colour to my Catherine Blades Couture designs. One of my favourites is the tiffany green ballgown dress, with Indian silver beaded embroidery and a distinctive bow, allowing you to be true to your authentic self.

BESPOKE DESIGN BY CATHERINE BLADES COUTURE

SANDY SINGLETON & SIAN SMYTHE

14 Riverside Place Taunton Somerset TA1 1JH

01823 322 463 enquiries@champagneandstrawberries.co.uk champagneandstrawberries.co.uk Stockists of • Maggie Sottero • Romantica • Mori Lee • Veromia

CHAMPAGNE & STRAWBERRIES We’re a friendly and welcoming family-run bridal boutique in the heart of Somerset. With over 100 gowns in stock in sizes to try from a UK8-28, we are sure you will find the dress of your dreams here. We also stock bridesmaid gowns, prom wear, flowergirl dresses, mens wear and accessories.

Our dream dress...

We would have to choose Andraea by Maggie Sottero. This lightweight, stunning gown has 1920’s-inspired beaded detail across the bodice and cascading onto the slim A-line skirt. Brides can try this beautiful dress on in store, available in a delicate light gold.

ANDRAEA BY MAGGIE SOTTERO

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LOVE THE DRESS

TRACEY HALES & AMY WATTS

6 Piccadilly Buildings Sheep Street Kettering Northamptonshire NN16 0AN

01536 601930 sales@iconbridal.co.uk iconbridal.co.uk Stockists of • Ronald Joyce • Modeca • Watters • House of Mooshki • Paloma Blanca • Maids to Measure

ICON BRIDAL Located in Kettering, Northamptonshire, we pride ourselves on providing a personal, fun and friendly service from the minute you enter our shop to your wedding day. We welcome you and your party to relax in our private dressing rooms and enjoy the experience of finding your dream dress.

Our dream dress...

Our favourite dress in store at the moment is Elise by Watters. She brings something different in terms of the design and lace detail. Brides have fallen in love with her for her shape and bold design, allowing you to make a beautiful statement in the most elegant way.

ELISE BY WATTERS

31 High Street, Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire NG21 9QR ANGELA ROBSON

01623 371174 info@iconicbride.co.uk iconicbride.co.uk

Stockists of • Sophia Tolli • Watters Wtoo • Catherine Parry • Nicola Anne

ICONIC BRIDE Iconic Bride sits within the historic village of Edwinstowe, in the heart of Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire. We believe that all brides are unique and individual. We provide our brides with an eclectic mix of carefully handpicked dresses from some of the best known brands in bridalwear.

Our dream dress...

I really love the stunning Agnessa gown by Watters Wtoo. Available in the gorgeous Amaranth colour, this dress oozes romance with its floaty lightweight overlay and beautiful floral waist detail. This dress would be a great choice for a summer or destination wedding. Our brides love her!

AGNESSA BY WATTERS WTOO

38 Forest Lane Head Harrogate North Yorkshire HG2 7TF

THE HARROGATE WEDDING LOUNGE

Established in April 2009, the Harrogate Wedding Lounge HAYLEY HOYLE is a luxury bridal shopping 01423 888242 experience in beautiful info@theharrogateweddinglounge.com surroundings with customer theharrogateweddinglounge.com service and attention to detail Stockists of that is second to none. Stocking • Maggie Sottero • Justin Alexander some of the world’s leading • Justin Alexander Signature • Enzoani designers, our gowns cover a • Blue by Enzoani • Raimon Bundó diverse spectrum of bridal styling.

BEXLEY BY SOTTERO & MIDGLEY

F I ND YOUR

DREAM DRESS

• Sottero & Midgley

Find Your Dream Dress is a brilliant tool to help brides find their dream bridal gown depending on their preferred tastes – from length and material to necklines and price. When you’ve found your dream dress, we then filter through 2,200 bridal boutiques in the UK & Ireland to find your nearest stockist! As well as

Our dream dress...

The dress that has us swooning at the moment is Bexley by Sottero & Midgley. We just love the cutting-edge look of the geometric lace, featuring soft opal beading for a boho-style.

Bexley also has on-trend spaghetti straps and a showstopping illusion halter back.

featuring the top bridal designers in the world, you’ll also find designs for the mother of the bride, bridesmaids and guests, too, as well as a great selection of shoes and accessories.

The all-new website is live now, so make sure you visit findyourdreamdress.co.uk and find your dream designs for you and all the bridal party!

SUZANNE NEVILLE

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lillianwest.com

LOVE THE LABEL

WHERE TO SHOP FOR

KENNETH WINSTON

3

1 2

5

Looking for a Kenneth Winston stockist near you?

Use our guide to find some of the best in the UK

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7

9 10 20 14

18 19

12 17 15 8 16 11 13

21 22

SCOTLAND 1. The Wedding Store (Motherwell) 2. To Be Wed (Bathgate) 3. Wedding Daze (Nairn) NORTH ENGLAND 4. Bridal Apparel (Rawdon, Leeds) 5. Darcy Weddings (Newcastle upon Tyne) 6. Miranda Marie (Yarm, North Yorkshire) WALES 7. Charlotte Alexander (Cwmbran, Wales)

MIDLANDS 8. Bride By Design (Warminster, Wiltshire) 9. Designs on You (Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham) 10. Georgina’s Bridal Boutique (Stourbridge, West Midlands) SOUTH ENGLAND 11. Amorae (Ongar, Essex) 12. Aurabelle LTD (Newport Pagnell, Bedford) 13. Catherine Francis (Arundal, West Sussex) 14. Elderberry Brides (Basingstoke, Hampshire)

15. The Bridal Shop Ltd (Romford, Essex) 16. The Bride Shop (Crawley, West Sussex) 17. The Tailors Cat (Cambridge) SOUTH WEST 18. A Class Brides (Brislington, Bristol) 19. Isobel’s Bride & Groom (Poole, Dorset)

20. Linda Gray Bridalwear (Gloucester) 21. Prudence Gowns (Keyham, Plymouth) 22. The Bridal Box (Torquay, Devon)

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0208 368 1500 • www.whiterosebridal.com

LOVE THE LABEL

STYLE BP004

STYLE AC009

PLUS-SIZE PRETTY FROM

Angel Curves

STYLE AC002

Feel every inch beautiful in a gorgeous gown from this wow-factor plus-size collection

W

hen this gorgeous collection came through, we couldn’t wait to share it with you! These dresses come in a wide range of plus-sizes for brides with fuller figures.

Each completely different to the next, this diverse collection will appeal to every bride and be sure to make you feel your most fabulous on the big day.

We love Style AC009 (top left) with its intricate sparkly details.

Visit angelbbride.co.uk today.

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LOVE THE DRESS

Graceful goddess We were sent this beautiful fashion shoot by the talented Ayeh Khalatbari, and what a beauty it is! Featuring an elegant Elbeth Gillis gown and incredible scenery, this shoot proves in its simplicity that the bride always steals the show. No matter how many details, glitz and glamour you add to your day, ultimately all eyes will be on you, so choose a dress that will wow the crowd!

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PHOTOGRAPHER Ayeh Khalatbari Photography ART DIRECTOR Paula Einhorn FLOWERS Blomlief DRESS Elbeth Gillis MAKE-UP Mariaan Louw MODELS Helena Zaayman (Full Circle Models) and Blair Taberer

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L OVE T H E L A B E L

FASHION FOCUS

Elbeth Gillis Elbeth Gillis is one of South Africa’s super star designers, with a reputation built over 20 years. Her gowns are pure luxury (she sources only the best fabrics), and offer a beautiful balance between sophisticated femininity and timeless elegance. Elbeth designed two collections for 2017 – Luxury (four below) is comprised of elegant gowns while Milk and Honey (four above) offers mix-and-match separates. Find your nearest stockist and prepare to fall in love now at elbethgillis.com.

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LOVE THE LABEL

CLARA VERONA

WHY BRIDES LOVE

House of Mooshki Vintage styling has never looked so good, thanks to this lovely label!

L

ooking for fun, elegant designs with a vintage edge? The masters of exactly that are House of Mooshki. Their exciting range of dresses offers something a little more alternative than a traditional gown. With many ESTHER

tea-length styles in the latest collection as well as cute details like polka dots, bows and belts, you can fulfil all your retro needs here! Our pick is Esther (left), with her pretty polka sleeves and tulle skirt. See more at houseofmooshki.com.

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VIVIENNE

ROSIE

WILLOW

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L OVE T H E L A B E L

FASHION FOCUS

White Rose Graceful

Graceful by name, graceful by nature – this exceptional plus-size collection proves that no matter what your size, you can look and feel the most elegant you ever have on your special day. We adore the silhouettes on each design, and the variety of materials used, too. Whether you want strapless or high neck, lightweight or heavy, you’ll find your perfect gown at whiterosebridal.com.

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CALLISTA For Brides with Curves

callistabride.com

LOVE OUR WEDDING

Read every issue for FREE at LOVEOURWEDDINGMAG.COM

Never miss an issue, sign up for your free monthly copy COM

INGMAG.COM

LOVEOURWEDDINGMAG.

LOVEOURWEDD

LOVEOURWEDDINGMAG.COM

2017 ISSUE 20 • FEBRUARY

Real

Y 2017 ISSUE 19 • JANUAR

BEAUTIFUL REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Seasonales dress

MODECA

New ways to save

MORE HOW TO GET SPEND STYLE FOR LESS

Chic sequins

ALLURE BRIDALS

IDEAS FASHION & GIFT GIRLS FOR YOUR BEST 27/11/2016

PRETTY PLUS-SIZE STYLES FOR FULLER FIGURES

w

TICKING ALL OUR TREND BOXES FOR 2017!

WIN PRIZES WORTH £10K!

DESIGNER DRESSES, DECOR, MORE, P164 STATIONERY & MUCH

275 OF THE DREAMIEST DETAILS! FIND YOUR SHOES, JEWELLERY, DECOR & MORE INSIDE

Make a wish!

GREAT IDEAS FOR YOUR GIFT LIST

Real-life weddings

32 PAGES OF BEAUTIFUL & INSPIRING BIG DAYS WHAT KIND OFw BRIDE ARE YOU? TAKE OUR FUN QUIZ TO FIND OUT! P43

DRESS TO IMPRESS

TAKE YOUR PICK FROM THE BEST BRIDAL DESIGNS

WIN DRESSES FOR YOU AND YOUR BRIDESMAIDS WORTH £3,000!

HOW TO CUT THE GUEST LIST + YOUR ULTIMATE W-DAY CHECKLIST

ELLIS BRIDALS

OUR COVER STARS TELL US ABOUT THE NEW COLLECTION

29/12/2016 11:27

17:01 LOW20_Cover Allure

1

A BUMPER ISSUE OF THE BEST BRIDAL DRESSES

Curvy couture

READINGS & MUSIC IDEAS THE SOUNDTRACK TO YOUR DAY – SORTED!

LOVE YOUR BRIDESMAIDS

A NIGHT TO !

REMEMBER S FUN HEN PARTIE P155 FOR ALL AGES, Modeca 3aa.indd

WHERE TO MARRY ABROAD IN & HONEYMOON EVERY SEASON

WHY THIS LABEL NE’S IS ON EVERYO 2017 WISH LIST FOR

TREND TAP INTO THIS FOR A GLAM THEME

• STATIONERY ES • DECOR • SHO & • JEWELLERY MUCH MORE!

LOW19_Cover

Brides

REAL WEDDINGS WITH THE WOW FACTOR

S GORGEOUS GOWN OF YEAR FOR EVERY TIME

AL OH-SO ORIGIN D BIG DAYS PACKE STEAL WITH IDEAS TO

ISSUE 21 • MARCH 2017

SHE’S IN FASHION!

3aa.indd 1

LOW21_Cover Ellis 2AA.indd 1

12/01/2017 15:59

• More planning ideas • More inspiration • More competitions • More real weddings

Follow us on social media, too!

LoveOurWedding

LoveOurWedMag

LoveOurWeddingMag

LoveOurWedMag

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www.lisadonetti.com

www.novabella.eu

BEAUTIFUL BRIDESMAID DRESSES FROM

WIN!

JUNE PEONY Here’s your chance to snap up four bridesmaid dresses for your favourite ladies, worth £1,000!

W

ant to treat your girls to an extra special dress for your big day? Then you must enter this amazing competition from June Peony to win up to four bridesmaid dresses, in a prize worth £1,000!

June Peony’s range of bridesmaid and occasion wear will have you and your girls swooning, thanks to the amazing design and beautiful embellishments. These dresses are guaranteed to make your bridesmaids feel extra special, and add a glamorous gloss to your big day theme. With up

to four dresses up for grabs in a range of over 100 colours, your girls can choose the same design or mix and match for an on-trend bridal party style.

We love this blue number (left), flashing just a hint of flesh with the illusion waist. Stunning! See more at junepeony.com now and read on to enter.

HOW TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning this prize, pop over to loveourweddingmag.com today to answer a simple question. Competition closes 15th March 2017.

T&Cs • Prize winner must be a genuine bride-to-be. Prize is strictly not for resale, is non transferable and subject to availability. No cash or prize alternative. Alterations and delivery not included. Prize value cannot exceed £1,000. The four bridesmaid dresses can be chosen from the current or upcoming collection, with no bespoke service.

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SPECIALDAY www.specialday-ireland.com

SPECIALDAY www.specialday-ireland.com

www.lqdesigns.eu

LOVE THE LABEL

FASHION FOCUS

P

Special Day

icking bridesmaid dresses isn’t easy – with so many different shapes and sizes, some styles suiting some but not others – it can be a bit of a minefield! Luckily, Special Day are on hand to provide a vast variety of designs for your bridesmaids, with modern dresses they’ll be more than happy to wear not only on the big day, but long after, too! Here are some of our favourites, but see them all at specialday-ireland.com.

STYLE D16 505 GET A RETRO EDGE IN THIS TEA-LENGTH STYLE WITH A LACY HIGH NECK

STYLE D17 206 LET OUT YOUR INNER GRECIAN GODDESS IN THIS LIGHTWEIGHT ONE SHOULDER DESIGN

STYLE D17 213 THIS FLOATY GOWN IS PEACHY PERFECTION! A GREAT CHOICE FOR A SUMMER CELEBRATION

STYLE D17 208 HIGH-LOW SKIRTS ARE A BIG TREND RIGHT NOW AND WE LOVE THIS PRETTY EXAMPLE

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Online boutique Olivier Laudus offers a wide range of beautifully wrapped jewellery and hair accessories at affordable prices.

Our jewellery is suitable for any occasion including weddings.

25% OFF

020 8004 9988

WWW.OLIVIERLAUDUS.COM

YOUR ORDER USING CODE: SALE25

LOVE THE BRIDESMAIDS

PRONOVIAS

MORI LEE SPECIAL DAY

MORI LEE

ALEXIA DESIGNS

LONG ALEXIA DESIGNS

DESSY

DESSY PRONOVIAS

ALLURE BRIDALS

Great lengths!

Short, tea and full-length gowns to suit your bridal party style

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LLO OVVEE TTH HEE SBHRO ID EE SSMAIDS

SHORT ALLURE BRIDALS

MORI LEE CHRISTINA WU

KENNETH WINSTON

KELSEY ROSE

CHRISTINA WU KELSEY ROSE

LINZI JAY

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WTOO BY WATTERS

ALLURE BRIDALS

Find our gorgeous range of accessories online at linzijay.com

LOVE THE BRIDESMAIDS

TEA MARK LESLEY RONALD JOYCE

MARK LESLEY TRUE BRIDE EBONYROSE DESIGNS

DESSY SPECIAL DAY

SPECIAL DAY

ANGEL B

LINZI JAY

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Headpieces & Jewellery Designed and Handmade in the UK

ariannatiaras.com

L OVE T H E L A B E L

FASHION FOCUS

Christina Wu Thankfully, gone are the days of heavy, unflattering bridesmaid dresses, nowadays bridesmaids reflect the trends on the fashion catwalks, making your girls almost as glamorous as you on the big day! With chic sequins, lovely lace and body-skimming lines, Christina Wu offers the perfect example of on-trend bridesmaids with the fabulous Celebration collection. Available nationwide in a range of sizes and colours, all brides should head over to christinawu.co.uk today!

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10 1

9

2

TOP TREND ALERT!

8

Mother of the bride

3

Mums have never looked more glamorous thanks to these gorgeous new designs!

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1. RONALD JOYCE 2. DRESS CODE BY VEROMIA 3. JASMINE COLLECTION 4. RONALD JOYCE 5. DRESSED UP VEROMIA 6. JASMINE COLLECTION 7. RONALD JOYCE 8. JOHN CHARLES 9. GINA BACCONI 10. JOHN CHARLES

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4

BRIDES THAT ARE...

Sweet-toothed Do you crave sweet treats? Don’t worry – you don’t have to give them up with Slimming World!

ALL RECIPES ARE TAKEN FROM SLIMMING WORLD’S COLLECTION.TO DISCOVER MORE RECIPE INSPIRATION, OR TO FIND YOUR NEAREST GROUP, VISIT SLIMMINGWORLD.CO.UK OR CALL 0344 897 8000.

IMAGE CREDITS: SLIMMING WORLD/GARETH MORGANS, ADRIAN LAWRENCE

PISTACHIO, FIG AND LEMON BISCOTTI MAKES 24 READY IN 1 HOUR 10 MINUTES, PLUS COOLING INGREDIENTS 50g shelled pistachio nuts 200g plain flour, 1 tsp reserved for dusting ½ tsp baking powder 2 tbsp sweetener granules 50g dried figs, chopped into small pieces 2 medium eggs, plus 1 yolk Finely grated zest of 1 large unwaxed lemon ½ tsp vanilla extract Salt 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/ fan 160°C/gas 4 and line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper.

Spread out the pistachio nuts on the baking tray and roast for 5 minutes. Remove and leave to cool.

2. Sift the flour, baking powder and a pinch of salt into a mixing bowl and stir in the sweetener, figs and pistachio nuts. In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs and egg yolk with the lemon zest and 104 ♥ L OV E O U R W E D D I N G ♥ M A R C H 2 0 1 7

vanilla extract. Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and stir in the egg mixture to make a soft dough. Knead briefly on a lightly floured work surface until smooth. Line your baking tray with more non-stick baking paper.

3. Divide the dough in half and roll each piece into an 18cm long sausage. Lay them 10cm apart on the prepared baking tray and flatten slightly with your hand.

Bake for 25 minutes until lightly golden and a skewer, inserted into the centre, comes away clean.

Set aside to cool for 10 minutes.

Reduce the oven temperature to 150°C/Fan 130°C/Gas 2. Using a serrated knife, cut each log slightly on the diagonal into 12 x 1cm-thick slices. Place sideby-side, cut-face down, on the baking tray and bake for another 20 minutes, turning them halfway, until they feel slightly firm and dry when pressed. Transfer to a rack and leave them to go cool – they will get harder as they go cold. Store in an airtight tin.

RHUBARB CRUMBLES SERVES 4 READY IN 30 MINUTES

CHOCOLATE LOG SERVES 10 READY IN 45 MINUTES INGREDIENTS 5 large eggs 2 tbsp sweetener granules 50g caster sugar, plus 1 tsp reserved for sprinkling 1 tsp vanilla extract 60g plain flour 40g cocoa powder 1 level tsp icing sugar, to dust

ELIZABETH STUART

with 4 tablespoons of water and the sweetener. Bake for 10 minutes then remove from INGREDIENTS the oven. Meanwhile, make the 10 rhubarb sticks, trimmed and crumble topping. Put the biscuits cut into 7cm pieces in a sealable food bag with the 6 tbsp sweetener oats, ginger and 1 teaspoon of 3 reduced fat digestive biscuits cinnamon and roughly crush 1 level tbsp plain porridge oats with a rolling pin. Sprinkle the ¼ tsp ground ginger remaining cinnamon over the 2 tsp ground cinnamon rhubarb, stir well and divide Fat-free natural fromage frais, between four ramekins or small sweetened to taste, to serve pie dishes. Sprinkle the crumble on top and bake for 20 minutes 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/Fan or until nicely browned. Serve hot 180°C/Gas 6. Put the rhubarb with dollops of fat-free natural on a baking tray and sprinkle fromage frais.

evenly, making sure it goes into the corners of the tin. Bake for 10 minutes until firm and springy to the touch. Remove from the oven. Place a clean sheet of nonstick baking paper on to your work surface and sprinkle with the remaining caster sugar. Turn the sponge out on to the sugardusted paper and peel off and discard the old baking paper.

For the filling: 100g plain quark 125g fat-free raspberry yogurt 300g raspberries

3. Starting with one long edge, roll up the sponge together with the paper and leave it to go cold.

To make the filling, beat the quark and raspberry yogurt together 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/Fan until smooth. Carefully unroll the 160°C/Gas 4 and line a Swiss roll sponge and spread the yogurt tin (around 31cm x 21cm) with mixture over it. Roughly crush non-stick baking paper. Using an half the raspberries with a fork electric hand whisk, whisk the and spread over the yogurt. Roll eggs, sweetener, 50g caster sugar up the sponge once more, this and vanilla extract together in time without the paper. Carefully a bowl for 4 minutes until light lift the log on to a serving board and fluffy. Sift over the flour and and decorate with the remaining cocoa powder and gently fold in. raspberries. Sprinkle with the icing sugar (like we did for our 2. Spoon the mixture into the picture!) and serve straight away prepared tin and spread it out for the best results.

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Get the low down!

PINK BY PARADOX

NOT A BIG FAN OF THE HIGH HEELS? DON’T WORRY – YOUR FEET CAN LOOK JUST AS PRETTY IN SOME SUPER-COMFY KITTEN HEELS OR FLATS. HERE ARE OUR TOP PICKS...

TED BAKER CHARLOTTE MILLS

ARUNA SETH

RAINBOW CLUB

PINK BY PARADOX JIMMY CHOO

RAINBOW CLUB PINK BY PARADOX

LOVE ART WEAR ART HARRIET WILDE

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LOVE THE DETAILS

EMMY LONDON CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN RACHEL SIMPSON

JIMMY CHOO

Magical metallics

HARRIET WILDE

Glitter, shimmer and metallic tones are everywhere right now, and we love it!

CHARLOTTE MILLS CHARLOTTE MILLS

JIMMY CHOO

LOVE ART WEAR ART PINK BY PARADOX

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Wlovedho evernotlovedat firstthatsight A S

I can be your

YO U

L I K E

I T

SOMETHING BLUE

Take a look at the sole of your shoe!

There you will find a tiny token of good luck for your magical day and a true mark of Rainbow Club authenticity.

rainbowclub.co.uk

LOVE THE DETAILS

ALAN HANNAH, £40

YARWOOD-WHITE, £45 LOVE SUSIE, £24.95

XXXXXXXXX

Off the cuff

DEBBIE CARLISLE, £185

Find your perfect arm candy from these pretty pieces ALAN HANNAH, £35

ROSIE WILLETT, FROM £71 SUSIE WARNER, £85

JULIEANN BIRD, £32.50

IVORY & CO, £70 YARWOOD-WHITE, £100

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DESIGNED TO SPARKLE, £30

LAUREL LIME, £75

SUSIE WARNER, £130

IVORY & CO, £POA

DESIGNED TO SPARKLE, £35

SUSIE WARNER, £115

SUSIE WARNER, £150

DESIGNED TO SPARKLE, £30

OLIVIER LAUDUS, £39.99

FREYA ROSE, £145

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EXQUISITE INDIVIDUALLY HANDCRAFTED BRIDAL TIARAS, WEDDING JEWELLERY & WEDDING ACCESSORIES VIEW OUR COLLECTIONS!

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LOVE THE DETAILS

TREE OF HEARTS

WITH LOVE WEDDING STATIONERY BELO PAPERIE

IT’S BOWADE

THE LITTLE STATIONERY HOUSE

XXXXXXXXXX, £XX

SWOON AT THE MOON

IVY INKS

LUCY LEDGER WITH LOVE WEDDING STATIONERY

Save the date!

Send these beauties to your guests to secure your special date LUCY LEDGER

BORROWED & BLUE

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Love letters

Jewelled crown

MARIAELENAHEADPIECES.COM Every queen deserves a beautiful crown, and this one is magnificent! £POA

Anabel flats

CHARLOTTEMILLSBRIDAL.CO.UK How adorable are these little pumps with a heart? So cute! From £150

Crystal bracelet

DESIGNEDTOSPARKLE.CO.UK This Carys bridesmaid bracelet is the perfect gift for your girls. £25

WEDDINGMALL.CO.UK These subtly lit letters will look great on the top table. £57

Lovebird necklace

THEME YOUR DAY

SUSIEWARNER.COM This Cosmos Lovebird necklace would finish off a low V-neck perfectly. £220

LOVE ME DO Show your love for each other with a romantic big-day theme

Calming candles PARKSCANDLES.COM These aromatherapy candles will help you unwind with your fiancé. £POA

Bird belt

EMMYLONDON.COM This pretty belt will add elegance to a simple dress. £395

Nina heart clutch LOVEARTWEARART.CO.UK Put your lip gloss and phone in this dainty little purse. £110

Red shoes

RAINBOWCLUB.CO.UK Finish your look with these red Samantha heels. From £85

Gold balloons

BUBBLEGUMBALLOONS.CO.UK These gold star and moon balloons will add romance. £POA

Romantic gifts

BUY-OUR-HONEYMOON.COM Instead of traditional gifts, have romantic honeymoon excursions on your list. £POA

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Millie gown

ALANHANNAH.CO.UK This off-the-shoulder dress is bang on trend. £POA

LOVE THE DETAILS

Rose petals

SHROPSHIREPETALS.COM Red rose petals are the ultimate romantic detail! £15.95 per litre

Gina bodysuit

ENDERLEGARD.COM Pull your figure in at all the right places in this ultra-feminine bodysuit. £POA

Valentine cake

CAKEMAISON.CO.UK What better centrepiece for a wedding than a heart-embellished cake? £POA

Romantic gown

MARKLESLEY.CO.UK This stunning dress, Style 7168, features a heart-shaped keyhole back. Just, wow! £POA

Cream table plan

THEWEDDINGOFMYDREAMS.CO.UK Seat your guests with this cute heart table plan. £25

Red velvet dress

WILDANDGORGEOUS.CO.UK This gorgeous velvet dress is called Happy!

Perfect for your mini maids. £115

Gold birdcage

WEDDINGMALL.CO.UK Fill this decadent cage with roses for a romantic table centre. £11.65

Love is sweet

THEWEDDINGOFMYDREAMS.CO.UK This chalkboard style print is perfect for your sweetie table. £19

Bridesmaid dress

ROMANTICAOFDEVON.CO.UK Dress your girls in this chic Jodie design in red lace. £POA

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LOVE THE DETAILS

THEME YOUR DAY

Winter wonderland Are you dreaming of a wintry wedding in the snow? As dreamy as they are, you can’t always guarantee the weather will play ball. This amazing shoot shows you how to create a winter feel regardless of the weather,

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from the Christmas tree and geode stationery to the crystal decor and snow machine! We really love the big ‘Me & You’ letters and heart from The Prop Factory – the perfect way to add drama to your dancefloor.

VENUE Deer Park Hot, deerpark.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHER Liberty Pearl Photography, libertypearlphotography.com STYLING Liberty Pearl Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Richard James Edward Dickinson WEDDING DRESSES Ellis Bridals, ellisbridals.com EVENING DRESS Phase Eight GROOMS Hawkes Exeter, jonathanhawkes.co.uk BEAUTY/MAKE-UP Genevieve Satha Makeup, genevievesatha.co.uk HAIR devonweddinghair.co.uk STATIONERY Hip Hip Hooray, hiphiphooray.com SHOES Emmy London, emmylondon.com CAKE Edible Essence, edibleessencecakeart.com FLORIST Bloom and Flourish, bloomandflourish.co.uk HAIR ACCESSORIES The Lucky Sixpence, theluckysixpence.co.uk PROPS The Prop Factory, propfactory.co.uk CRYSTALS Phoenix Wings Crystals, phoenix-wings.co.uk SNOW MACHINE Pro Sound And Light, prosoundandlight.co.uk M A R C H 2 0 1 7 ♥ L OV E O U R W E D D I N G ♥ 117

LOVE OUR WEDDING

A SENSATIONAL SOUTH AFRICAN WEDDING

SI MONE & HAGEN This romantic wedding in a beautiful location takes our breath away!

Simone tells her story...

How did Hagen propose?

“It really was a fairytale proposal, which took me by complete surprise! We went on holiday to Europe and stopped in Italy, at a beautiful lake side town called Garda. One evening we went on a romantic bike ride and stopped for a break with a bottle of Prosecco, our legs dangling in the lake and O sole mio playing in the distance. He then popped the question! I thought I 118 ♥ L OV E O U R W E D D I N G ♥ M A R C H 2 0 1 7

was dreaming! It was really indecisive at the best of special and so cute.” times, but when I fitted the original dress, my mom and best friend convinced “My dress was made me this was the one and I

by Elbeth Gillis. It was absolutely loved it!” based on a dress in her showroom with some personal tweaks. I had so “I wanted my accessories many different ideas in to be understated, my head and am really especially since the bodice

What dress did you wear?

And the accessories?

of my dress was detailed.

I wore flowers in my hair and simple rose gold earrings from La Visa.”

What did Hagen wear?

“He drove me mad, going from shop to shop to fit suits (he is worse than I am!), but eventually ended up buying a slim

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THE DETAILS Date: 5th December 2015 Venue: MolenVliet Oosthuizen Family Vineyards, Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa Photographer: Andre van Niekerk from Vivid Blue Simone’s dress: Elbeth Gillis Hagen’s attire: Topshop Accessories: La Visa

fit navy blue suit from Topshop.”

How did you feel when you first saw him?

“I don’t think I have ever felt so nervous, anxious and stressed in my life.

I woke up with a blood shot eye from my lash

extensions and it was all very overwhelming, but when I saw Hagen and the look in his eyes, I felt like the luckiest girl in the world about to marry the love of my life.”

What was your theme?

“Modern but romantic

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and the colour scheme was white and gold with touches of blush.

Everything was very modern and clean but also soft with the beautiful flowers and lots of candles. The hints of gold were added through the cutlery, gold rimmed

glassware, stationery and the dancefloor.”

What was the highlight of your day?

“I loved our intimate ceremony. The pastor said a few words in German for my German family, which was so special.”

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LOVE OUR WEDDING

A CLASSIC BLACK TIE WEDDING THEME

DAVINA & CHRIS This traditional wedding in a mansion ticks all our style boxes! Davina reveals more...

How did Chris propose?

me to look out and put “Chris proposed on my hands out wide for holiday in Florence, a photo. I did, and after Italy. When we arrived waiting some time for at our hotel, we had this a ‘click’, he told me my beautiful view of the city left hand looked bare. I from our window. He told turned and he was on 122 ♥ L OV E O U R W E D D I N G ♥ M A R C H 2 0 1 7

one knee. I didn’t cry. I was too shocked!”

What dress did you wear?

“I wore a Pronovias gown called Balar, bought from our local wedding shop in Brentwood called Matchmaker. They were brilliant. Personal, warm and friendly. They knew that being a petite bride,

I needed something fitted, not too fussy and simple. I loved it!”

And the accessories?

“I had a simple faux silk cathedral veil from Richard Designs. To make it special, I teamed it with a vintage style hair piece I fell in love with from Liberty in Love.”

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THE DETAILS Date: 13th August 2016 Venue: Luton Hoo Hotel, Bedfordshire Photographer: Belle Momenti Davina’s dress: Pronovias Chris’ attire: Hugo Boss Bridesmaid dresses: Dessy Accessories: Richard Designs & Liberty in Love

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What did Chris wear?

“Chris wore a custom fit Hugo Boss tuxedo with a velvet waistcoat and Hugo Boss shoes. His groomsmen wore classic tuxedos from Anthony Formal Wear in Billericay.”

How did you feel when you saw him up the aisle?

“I felt unbelievably happy and moved to see him emotional. I spent months worrying that I would be too sad myself

as my dad had passed away a year before.

However, when I got to the moment, I never felt happiness like it.”

Matchmaker. I couldn’t resist the dove grey and the Grecian style!”

What was your theme?

“We stuck to classic, neutral colours as our theme: black, ivory, grey and gold. We centred “My bridesmaids were my it around the idea of a oldest and closest friends classic tuxedo. Our first from school – Sasha and dance – When I Fall in Danielle. At school, we Love by Nat King Cole were thick as thieves!

– summarised the old They wore Dessy dresses, school, simple, classy feel also ordered from we wanted.”

Who were your bridesmaids and what dresses did they wear?

What was the highlight of your day?

“The speeches. I hadn’t cried all day because I was on a high, but when Chris spoke about my dad, and so well, I felt unbelievably touched and in awe. I’ve never heard a speech like it.

He managed to move everyone in the room to tears and laughter so comfortably and with ease. All the speeches were fantastic.”

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LOVE OUR WEDDING

A WONDERFUL WINTER WEDDING

FA RR A H & PAUL A warm, cosy wedding in winter with red and golden hues. Bride Farrah reveals all...

How did Paul propose?

“We were hiking in the Drakensberg mountains in South Africa where I am originally from. Paul suddenly stopped at a kissing gate and turned

around holding out the most beautiful ring I had ever seen.”

What dress did you wear?

“I only had to go to two bridal shops

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before finding the one!

I had tried on a lot of lace at Bell’amore in Bexleyheath, Kent, but then when I put the Ronald Joyce dress on it was like I lit up. The satin was beautiful with just the right amount of embellishment at the hip and neck. It made me feel truly beautiful.”

And the accessories?

“I wanted my hair up to show off the neckline of the dress. I wore a hair clip from Debenhams, which was just the right size, giving a little sparkle. My veil was made by bridesmaid and best friend – wedding dress designer, Phoebe Stockman. She had put small crystals on the veil that caught the light perfectly. I had my mother’s antique watch as my something borrowed, my earrings were my own, and my shoes were from Dune.”

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THE DETAILS Date: 28th November 2015 Venue: Compton Verney, Warwick Photographer: Alex Bradbury Farrah’s dress: Ronald Joyce Paul’s attire: Moss Bros Bridesmaid dresses: Quiz Accessories: Debenhams Shoes: Dune

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What did Paul wear?

“Paul wanted a traditional look and so decided on a morning suit from Moss Bros. When looking at the colours we decided on gold and red to add warmth on the cold winter’s day.”

fear of welling up. I had both Mum and Dad walking me down the aisle so I drew on their strength and looked up. He slowly smiled at me and I felt a calm. He looked so handsome.”

Who were your How did you feel when bridesmaids and what you saw him up the aisle? dresses did they wear?

“As I walked through the door, I remember thinking that I didn’t want to look at him for

Phoebe and Carolann. I also had Paul’s niece Ellie as our flowergirl. Their gold sequin dresses were from Quiz as I wanted to reflect the warm candlelight in the room.”

What was your theme?

“The theme was a glamorous winter wedding with gold and “When I was thinking red. We asked the guests about bridesmaids, it was to come in black tie to an easy decision! I wanted add to the glamour, and my two best friends – I wanted lots of candles

and warm reflections in the main room to give a cosy warm feeling.”

What was your best buy?

“I wanted the bridesmaids to wear beautiful evening dresses, but they also needed to be warm! We searched for something that would complement the dresses and keep the look sophisticated. We found the fur wraps from Coast, and they were on a special offer!”

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LOVE OUR WEDDING

A DREAMY WEDDING OVERSEAS

KERRY & LEE A super-colourful day in the glorious Santorini sunshine! Kerry tells us more...

How did Lee propose?

the whole of Dubai and the palm.”

“Lee proposed to me in Dubai the previous year.

We were at the top the Burj al Arab (the famous “I wore a Sottero & hotel shaped like a sail) Midgley gown. It was and we were overlooking perfect for an overseas

What dress did you wear?

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wedding as it had no back and was fairly slimline. I purchased a wedding dress box from The Empty Box company.

These boxes fit your airline cabin baggage allowance measurements meaning you can carry your dress as hand luggage and not worry about checking it in! I put

my shoes and other small things I needed for the day in there, too.”

And the accessories?

“I wore a Jenny Packham headpiece and Stuart Weitzman shoes, which were a gift from Lee. I decided against a veil as my dress had such a beautiful back feature.”

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THE DETAILS Date: 6th June 2015 Venue: Ceremony at The Santo Winery followed by the reception at the Santorini Princess, Santorini, Greece Photographer: Mark Pugh markpugh.com Kerry’s dress: Sottero & Midgley Lee’s attire: Zara Bridesmaid dresses: Dessy Accessories: Jenny Packham Shoes: Stuart Weitzman

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What did Lee wear?

“Lee and his best man wore cream suits from Zara with no ties. They also had shoes and belts from Russell & Bromley”

decorated and I just wanted to be there with them all! All my bridesmaids went first and then my younger brother walked me down the aisle.”

How did you feel when you saw him up the aisle? Who were your bridesmaids and what “I was so excited to get dresses did they wear? to the venue! Lee called me when he and the rest of the guests arrived at the winery. He told me the venue looked absolutely amazing

“I had nine bridesmaids!

Our sisters, nieces and my best friends. They all had dresses from Dessy, although I chose a

different style of dress for each of them. I also chose two colours that matched our colour scheme of nude and coral, then the girls all chose their own gold shoes and accessories.

I wanted them to be relaxed and feel comfortable as well as all look individual.”

What was your theme?

“I chose the colour scheme by looking

at other destination weddings on Pinterest.

I love the two colours anyway and then based most of our other decor on the colours.”

What was the highlight of your day?

“Obviously walking down the aisle to meet Lee, but arriving together at the Santorini Princess to be greeted by all our friends and family for our special day was amazing.”

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LOVE OUR WEDDING

A CHIC WEDDING IN THE COUNTRY

MEG A N & CHRIS A lovely proposal followed by a beautiful wedding. Megan shares all the details...

How did Chris propose?

“Chris surprised me with a holiday to Italy’s south coast. On the third evening there he told me to get dressed up as we were eating at a Michelinstar restaurant at a local yachting club. At this point he’d been very secretive and I was wondering what was going on. We had an amazing meal and then returned to our hotel.

When we entered the room there was a trail of 134 ♥ L OV E O U R W E D D I N G ♥ M A R C H 2 0 1 7

handmade paper origami hearts in different colours.

I followed the trail and each heart had a different reason as to why he loved me. They led into the bedroom where a ring box was waiting. He also had the concierge fill the room with flowers and a bottle of champagne whilst we

were at dinner. I opened the box and to my surprise there was a paper origami ring in there. I turned around and Chris was on one knee with the real ring in his hand, and then he popped the question!”

What dress did you wear?

“After trying on so many

dresses and visiting so many shops, I finally found my dress. It was from a lovely little wedding shop in Bath called Luxquisite and designed

by Pronovias. From the second I tried it on I just knew that was the dress that would take Chris’ breath away.”

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THE DETAILS Date: 16th October 2016 Venue: Orchardleigh House, Frome Photographer: Emma-Jane Photography Megan’s dress: Pronovias Chris’ attire: Slaters Bridesmaid dresses: For Her & For Him Accessories: Swarovski Flowergirl dresses: Monsoon Decorations: Little Robin’s Cottage

And the accessories?

white shirt, an ivory tie “I wore a Swarovski head and pocket square bought piece and bracelet, and my from Slaters. He also wore veil was from Luxquisite. dark brown shoes.”

They accessorised the dress perfectly.”

What did Chris wear?

“A royal blue three-piece Santonelli suit with a

Who were your bridesmaids and what dresses did they wear?

“I had ten bridesmaids and two flowergirls! Their

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dresses were bought from For Her & For Him. The flowergirls’ dresses were from Monsoon.”

What was your theme?

“Shabby chic/tea party.

We achieved this by using the services of an amazing decorator called Jane of

Little Robin’s Cottage from Derbyshire.”

What was the highlight of your day?

“The ceremony and marrying the man of my dreams had to be the highlight. The whole day was perfect!”

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LOVE OUR WEDDING

A PERFECT PURPLE CELEBRATION!

A MY & RYA N These childhood sweethearts tied the knot in style. Amy tells her lovely story...

a bunch of roses! After paying he suggested we take a walk up the hill towards the windmill. He had hidden the picnic the car and he wouldn’t basket and flowers along “On 31st July 2015 Ryan let me pay, so he went to the track so we found took me out to dinner get it. Little did I know them whilst walking. We at a pub in Turville, that this was the start stopped halfway up the Buckinghamshire. When of the surprise! He had hill and sat overlooking it came to paying he said actually gone out to the village and had he had left his wallet in hide a picnic basket and the prosecco and

How did Ryan propose?

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strawberries and cream.

As I poured another drink, I turned around and he was on one knee, asking me to be his wife!”

What dress did you wear?

“I wore Tatiana by Sassi Holford, bought from Brides of Winchester. To make it more personal, the wedding date was

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THE DETAILS Date: 14th September 2016 Venue: Clock Barn, Tufton, Hampshire Photographer: Lisa & Ady at Lilybean Photography Amy’s dress: Sassi Holford Ryan’s attire: Moss Bros Bridesmaid dresses: Debenhams Accessories: White Designs & Accessorize Shoes: Rainbow Club

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stitched in blue onto a ribbon and attached carefully to the dress as my something blue.”

And the accessories?

“The dress was quite simple, so I accessorised it with a beaded belt by White Designs. My shoes were by Rainbow Club.

I wore white gold and diamond earrings with a matching necklace from Goldsmiths and hairgrips from Accessorize.”

What did Ryan wear?

“Ryan’s suit was from Moss Bros and he chose the Tailor Me option so he could personalise it. His shoes were by Loake with some colourful socks from Happy Socks!”

How did you feel when you saw him up the aisle?

“Having known Ryan since secondary school, it was really strange walking towards him knowing that he was

about to become my husband. I was so nervous, but as soon as I saw him I just wanted to run and grab him!”

Who were your bridesmaids and what dresses did they wear?

“My best friend, Laura, was my maid of honour.

Ryan’s sister, Charity, was my bridesmaid. They both wore deep purple dresses from Debenhams and sandals from Next.”

What was your theme?

“Everything was purple!

The flowers, dresses, candles, ties and cravats for the men. I have always loved the colour.”

What was the highlight of your day?

“Our baby boy waking up as we were about to say our vows! Although he won’t remember it, our guests witnessed it and our photographers caught a beautiful photo.”

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LOVE OUR WEDDING

A BREATHTAKING WEDDING IN SCOTLAND

RUTH & DAVID We’re totally smitten with this wow-factor wedding! Real bride Ruth shares the details...

How did David propose?

“On holiday in Parga, Greece. We had just polished off our welcome drink at the hotel bar and he popped the question just as we were unpacking in our room. He later told me he’d been freaking out ever since he mistakenly thought he had set off the security scanners at Manchester airport with the beautiful engagement ring in his wallet, but it was actually his Ipad!”

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What dress did you wear? And the accessories?

“Alix by Ronald Joyce. I instantly fell in love when I spotted it on a rail at The National Wedding Show in Manchester! My mother kindly bought it there and then for me because it was in the new collection and wouldn’t have been ready in time if I’d left it later!”

“My beautiful bridesmaids surprised me with gorgeous diamond studs from Rox on our wedding morning, and I felt honoured when Dave’s mum asked if I would mind wearing her mother’s gorgeous antique Australian opal ring. My

champagne-coloured shoes were from Dune.

And my two-tier antique white cathedral veil was from Because I love You Bridal in Farnworth.”

What did David wear?

“He went for a black slimfit suit from Hugo Boss, with a white shirt and

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THE DETAILS Date: 10th September 2016 Venue: A ceremony at Dunkeld Cathedral followed by the reception at Dunkeld House Hotel, Scotland Photographer: Craig & Eva Sanders Photography Ruth’s dress: Ronald Joyce David’s attire: Hugo Boss Bridesmaid dresses: Chi Chi London & Monsoon Flowergirl dresses: Monsoon Accessories: Rox Shoes: Dune

black dickie bow. Very James Bond – he looked so handsome!”

Who were your bridesmaids and what dresses did they wear?

“My two sisters and five of my best friends. They looked stunning in the

powder blue maxi dresses from Chi Chi London. I also had my 11-year-old second cousin as a junior bridesmaid. I got her dress from Monsoon. Dave’s adorable seven-year-old niece was our flowergirl, who also wore a dress from Monsoon.”

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What was your theme?

“It was a mix of everything – classic with a touch of glitz and vintage. We knew that we didn’t want to go too mad on props, after all, our wedding was about us celebrating with our closest family and friends.

The stunning natural

surroundings meant it didn’t take much for us to create the perfect day.”

What was the highlight of your day?

“Marrying my soulmate and being surrounded by our family and friends. I don’t think I stopped smiling!”

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STEVEN ROONEY PHOTOGRAPHY

LOVE THE PLANNING

KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH THE

Wedding Checklist Ensure you tick all the boxes before the big day with our ultimate planning guide

NEWLY ENGAGED Choose the bridesmaids Set a budget and best men Select an ideal wedding date Buy wedding insurance and book appointments at 9-12 MONTHS TO GO wedding venues Discuss the guest list to give Book dress appointments you a rough idea of numbers Order your gown with at Buy a wedding notebook/ least 9 months to go planner Give notice of your Set up a spreadsheet for all engagement at your local your wedding costs registry office

Finalise the guest list Send out save the dates Book the caterer Book the photographer Book the florist Book the DJ or band Book the hairstylist Book the make-up artist Arrange wedding transport Order bridesmaid dresses and groomswear

4-6 MONTHS TO GO Send out the invitations Register for a gift list Start preparing the wedding stationery (table plan, table numbers, order of service etc but do not print yet) Choose the music and readings for your ceremony Finalise the timings of your day

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LOVE THE PLANNING

BH13 PHOTOGRAPHY

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wedding as you will need these to prepare for the wedding Try to enjoy yourself and relax – this once-in-alifetime experience is all coming together for the biggest day of your life Consider booking a mini spa break/massage with your mum and bridesmaids to calm any nerves you’ll have!

BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS ALWAYS CHECK WHAT FLOWERS ARE IN SEASON WHEN YOU ARE GETTING MARRIED

Y E PHOTOGRAPH

Finalise the table plan and get it printed Have one last dress fitting to ensure the perfect fit Give your bridesmaids and the groomsmen a delegation list for on-the-day jobs Get your nails done and book the spray tan/start self tanning if you plan on doing it!

Book at least two days off work before the

PEPPERMINT LOV

Have your hair and make-up Chase up any late RSVPs trials with your bridesmaids Check the table plan and Investigate local upgrade any evening guests if accommodation for guests if day guests have pulled out your venue can’t provide this Touch base with all booked Liaise with the local registrar suppliers and meet with for civil ceremonies each of them to finalise regarding timings and vows details for your day Pay for the registrar (civil Go on the hen party ceremonies) Investigate honeymoon Reading of Banns (religious options (book if you have ceremonies) the money, or just research if Order the wedding cake you plan to spend wedding Buy your wedding shoes gift money on this) Buy your wedding Book where you’ll accessories be staying the first Order wedding decorations night after the wedding if and favours etc not on honeymoon Start any DIY decoration projects 2 WEEKS TO GO Book the hen party Prepare yourself for last-minute issues, 1-3 MONTHS TO GO and try not to Have your dress fitting and let them stress you book any essential alterations out – it’s inevitable!

affordable centrepieces, decor and inspiration online

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T: 01926 645T:T: 521 01926 645 521 01926 645 521 01926 645 521 E:T: E: events@comptonverney.org.uk E:events@comptonverney.org.uk events@comptonverney.org.uk E: events@comptonverney.org.uk www.comptonverney.org.uk www.comptonverney.org.uk www.comptonverney.org.uk www.comptonverney.org.uk

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LOVE THE PLANNING

LIFE PHOTOGRAPHIC

TOP TIPS FOR

T

MAKING THE CUT!

Choosing who will attend the big day is one of the biggest planning headaches! Keep costs and tempers to a minimum with our top tips

he guest list is often one of a bride’s most dreaded wedmin tasks, as the number of guests you have for your big day can make or break the budget. If you have too many names on your list but are struggling to cut numbers, don’t despair – here’s our stress-free

guide to streamlining your guest list, without offending anyone... (hopefully!).

and assign each guest a letter.

‘A’ means that you absolutely cannot imagine your wedding without that person there, ‘B’ LEARN TO PRIORITISE means that they won’t make First off, sit down with your or break the day, but that you’ll fiancé and make a list of miss them if they’re not able everyone you would potentially to attend, and ‘C’ means that want to invite to the wedding they’ll add to the fun of the – regardless of venue size or day if they can attend, but you budget. Then, go down the list probably won’t miss them if

they can’t. Everyone on your A-list should automatically get an invite – that’s a no-brainer!

Your B-list should also receive invitations, but that’s the list you should start looking at if you need to start to make cuts before the invites go out due to budget or venue restrictions.Your C-list won’t receive invitations until you’ve

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LOVE THE PLANNING

DON’T INVITE OUT OF GUILT! It can be tough, but try to not invite people purely because you were invited to their wedding, or because they’re old friends that you haven’t seen for years. Every wedding and couple is different, and you may not have the budget to accommodate people out of a sense of obligation.

“This is your special day and if you wouldn’t have considered inviting them previously, then think twice against doing it just because you feel obliged,” says Cat. “Every couple’s situation is different and most will fully understand. If you feel you really should return the favour, there’s always an evening invitation to consider.”

The same goes for inviting work colleagues or your boss – only do it if you’re genuinely friends outside of work! If you’re close to a few work friends but can’t invite everyone, do ask your lucky recipients to keep it on the down-low at work to avoid hurt feelings.

EMMA-JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

sent your A and B-lists and have started to receive RSVPs. Have invitations ready to go so that you can start to work through this list straight away.

The best bit about this system?

Your guests never know what list they are on!

“Remember that the number of regrets is proportional to the size of the wedding,” says wedding planner Cat D. “If you are planning a larger wedding with 200+ guests, expect approximately 20% to regretfully decline, whereas an intimate wedding with around 50 close family and friends normally sees a much lower number of people who attend.”

MAKE THE OCCASION ADULTS-ONLY It can sometimes cause controversy, but more and more couples are excluding children from the guest list.

“With child-free weddings, you want to ensure you are clear on the invitations without being too direct, as this can be a sensitive point for many

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JIM POYNER PHOTOGRAPHY

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venue Unique and historic venue Unique and historic venue

Unique and historic venue

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@CV_Hire

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@CV_Hire

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Registered charity no.

Registered charity no.1032478 1032478 Registered charity no. 1032478

West Midlands, so you know you’re in safe hands.

West Midlands, so you know you’re in safe hands.

A way to give back at your wedding By choosing our wedding favours, or collecting donations on your big day, you can help to give more children a safe and happy childhood.

“My late father always asked for money to go to the NSPCC instead of gifts, and as he isn’t here to be at my wedding, I want to do this for him. Taking care of children is very important to us both and I think this will be a lovely wedding favour for our guests.” – Victoria

Find out more and get in touch: nspcc.org.uk/celebrate celebrate@nspcc.org.uk 020 3772 9725

@NSPCC 2016. Registered charity England and Wales 216401 and Scotland SC037717.

Celebrate and Give

families,” Cat explains. “A good idea is to address the invitation only with the names of those invited, as well as on the RSVP. Phrases such as ‘we’d really like everyone to be able to let their hair down, so we politely request that no children attend’ are also worth considering.You will probably find your guests will respond positively and arrive ready to party!”

Children can add a lot of fun to a wedding, but they can also cause disruption, and you

might find that many parents will enjoy having a night off being ‘mum and dad’ for the night. Speak to the couples it affects before you send the invites out to prepare them in advance, so they don’t get an unexpected shock.

EY JAKE MORL

EMILY HASELL PHOTOGRAPHY

ENCHANTING WOOD

LOVE THE PLANNING

of money you have to spend on other important elements of the day. Unless you have an unlimited budget (and most brides don’t!), you’ll have to learn to balance these two.

“I always recommend my couples make a list REMEMBER THAT of which things are most IT’S ABOUT BALANCE important to them and then The reason that cutting the use this as a starting point to guest list can be so difficult is decide numbers,” says Cat. that you want to invite as many “Remember that it’s about of your loved ones as possible, quality not quantity.You but doing so limits the amount don’t want to over-extend

your finances for the sake of numbers. If I were to choose between an incredible photographer that ‘gets you’ and produces photos you will never tire of looking at versus 10 additional guests… well, there’s only one winner!”

Thanks to the wonderful Cat D for her top tips. Visit lovecatd.com to book her expert planning services for your big day.

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BIG-DAY INSPIRATION

BEAUTIFUL VENUES WEDDINGS ARE AVAILABLE AT EACH VENUE 7 DAYS A WEEK

We take a look at two stunning places to say ‘I do’ and the packages on offer, courtesy of countryhouseweddings.co.uk

GOSFIELD HALL QUICK FACTS FORMER PALACE 120 FOOT LONG AISLE THE ROCOCCO ACCOMMODATION FOR 67 GUESTS COTTAGE FOR NIGHT BEFORE

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CAPACITY GOSFIELD HALL 116 DAY/CEREMONY 250 FOR THE EVENING/RECEPTION

PACKAGE PRICES STARTING AT £5,500 FOR EACH VENUE

CAPACITY LEEZ PRIORY 100 DAY/CEREMONY 250 FOR THE EVENING/RECEPTION

LEEZ PRIORY QUICK FACTS SEVEN LICENSED CEREMONY OPTIONS

Both venues offer the following:

THE TOWER ACCOMMODATION FOR 34 GUESTS COTTAGE FOR NIGHT BEFORE 40 ACRES OF GROUNDS

• Exclusive use • Exclusively weddings • In and outdoor ceremony options

WHAT’S INCLUDED WITHIN THE PRICE • A choice of cocktails and classic welcome drinks (60 glasses) • Delicious canapes to accompany your welcome drinks • Delectable three-course wedding breakfast with tea, coffee and handmade petit fours • Chair covers with your choice of sash for ceremony and wedding breakfast • House wine to accompany your meal (30 bottles) • Exquisite sparkling wine for the speeches (60 glasses) • Late evening buffet served during your evening reception

• Full exclusive use of your very own country house from midday • House floral decorations throughout the venue • Full bar facilities including staff • All non-consumables including furnishings, linen and decorations • DJ and disco playing until midnight • Your own dedicated Personal Wedding Manager to help you plan and oversee your special day

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alzheimers.org.uk/weddings

‘It was our way of making our friend Pat involved, even though she couldn’t be there. Seeing everybody wearing Alzheimer’s Society pin badges made us think of Pat everywhere we looked.’

Rebecca and Leigh

The perfect gift for the perfect day Your wedding day will create wonderful memories to last a lifetime. If someone you love can’t be there because of dementia, you can still make them part of your celebration.

Honour them in a really special way by supporting Alzheimer’s Society. You can invite your guests to make a donation to us rather than give you a gift, organise a collection on the day, or order our unique wedding favours.

As you enjoy your big day, your generosity will help us defeat dementia - the best wedding gift of all.

To find out more visit alzheimers.org.uk/weddings or call us on 0330 333 0804

Photo of Rebecca and Leigh © TDH Media Alzheimer’s Society operates in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Registered charity number 296645.

LUKE HOLROYD PHOTOGRAPHY

Let me entertain you!

Here are our suggestions on how to plan a seriously fun day for everyone...

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Take advantage of your wedding season by planning some appropriately themed activities. If it’s autumn, why not try apple bobbing or toasting marshmallows by a bonfire? If it’s nearing Christmas, let guests decorate their own tree ornaments or make wreaths. Spring wedding guests could go on an Easter egg hunt or make flower crowns, while Summer

weddings are just crying out for ice cream sundae stations and festival-style face painting.

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Village fete and carnival theme weddings are guaranteed to keep guests entertained, and you can do as much or as little as you like depending on the space and budget available. Start small with lawn games like giant Jenga, chess and Connect 4, or

go for more of a village fete feel with stands like hooka-duck, whack-the-rat and a coconut shy. For a full-on funfair wedding, you can hire actual rides such as carousels, dodgems and waltzers – just make sure to check with your venue first!

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We all love good food and drink at a wedding, so why not have your catering

double up as entertainment with some fun food stations?

Build-your-own bars are super popular at US weddings, and the trend is making its way over here, too. Try buildyour-own tacos, pimp your prosecco or a Belgian waffle bar. If booze is more your bag, hire a quirky mobile bar to serve your guests from a vintage horsebox, doubledecker bus or camper van.

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EMMA-JANE PHOTOGRAPHY IKONWORKS PHOTOGRAPHY

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For a stylish black tie wedding (or one with a fun Vegas theme), why not hire some casino games for your guests to enjoy during the reception? It’ll give your day a real James Bond feel, especially if you set up a cocktail bar in the same room.You can even add personalised touches such as casino chips or ‘fun money’ with your photo or initials on, and unlike a real casino, your guests won’t lose any real money!

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RITVA WESTENIUS

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Entertainment doesn’t have to be a huge deal that blows the budget – simply providing some fun table games can keep guests happy for hours! Put disposable cameras on the table and give them a ‘photo scavenger hunt’ list with photo suggestions such as a group table photo, the bride and groom kissing and the best dancer in action.

Other on-paper ideas include wedding mad libs, trivia cards, and asking your guests to suggest date night ideas or their best marriage advice.

A creative idea for entertainment is to hire an artist to create portraits of your guests! Whether it’s a caricaturist (always good for comedy value), or a vintagestyle silhouette cutter, this entertainment also doubles up as a clever favour as guests can take their portrait home as a keepsake of your big day.

You could also hire a live event painter to create a watercolour or oil portrait of your wedding day as it unfolds, which makes for a perfect newlywed present to your other half.

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An oldie but a goodie, the wedding photo booth is still going strong for good

Old Thorns Manor Hotel

2017 Wedding Fayres Sunday 8th January

Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth

Sunday 15th January

The Solent Hotel & Spa, Whiteley

Sunday 29th January

New Place, Shirrell Heath

Sunday 5th February

Chilworth Manor Hotel, Southampton

Sunday 12th February

Portsmouth Guildhall

Sunday 19th February

Old Thorns Manor Hotel, Liphook

Sunday 5th March

Portsmouth Marriott Hotel

Sunday 12th March

Lainston House Hotel, Winchester

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Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton

Sunday 2nd April

Stansted House, Rowlands Castle

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Royal Marines Museum, Southsea

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Hilton at Ageas Bowl, Southampton

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Goodwood Racecourse, Chichester

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The Langstone Hotel, Hayling Island

Spinnaker Tower

Lainston House Hotel

The Solent Hotel & Spa

The Grand, Brighton

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Manor Chilworth Manorl

Coldeast Mansion, Sarisbury Green

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The Solent Hotel & Spa, Whiteley

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Old Thorns Manor Hotel, Liphook

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Portsmouth Guildhall

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Hilton at Ageas Bowl, Southampton

Sunday 8th October

Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton

Sunday 15th October

Lainston House Hotel, Winchester

Sunday 22nd October

Chilworth Manor Hotel, Southampton

Sunday 29th October

New Place, Shirrell Heath

Sunday 5th November

New Place

The Langstone Hotel

The Langstone Hotel, Hayling Island

= NEW VENUE 2017

More dates being added all the time. See website for up-to-date list.

Stansted House

01329 227437

01329 227437

www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk

www.theweddingplans.co.uk

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Who says your entertainment has to be in one place? Trips or rides for guests can be great fun if you have the space to do it. If your venue looks incredible from above, hire a hot air balloon that guests can go up in, or a vintage-style car that can take guests on short drives around the venue. If you’re on the beach, remind guests of their childhood with fun donkey rides, or boat rides if your venue is waterside.

suddenly create a scene and stun your guests with a surprise musical performance.

It’ll leave everyone talking and is a great way to kick off the party mood.

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End the night with a bang with an epic fireworks display! It’ll really Flash mobs and dance help to round off the night troupes are always fun at (there’s nothing worse than a wedding, but why not get a reception that just tails off), all your guests involved with and will make for an incredible a dance instructor at your set of photos.You can even reception? They can teach hand out sparklers to your everyone the steps to an guests so that you and your easy, fun group dance so that new husband can make a everyone can join in with your picture-perfect exit with a entertainment – and you’ll get sparkler send-off. Just make great photos out of it, too! sure to check with your venue This is a particularly nice before planning any fireworks idea if you and your fiancé or sparklers as some have are into dance, or there are strict rules and restrictions. traditional dances from your cultural background.

One of the easiest ways to Want to surprise organise amazing wedding your guests? Try a entertainment is to book a singing waiters act! These venue that already comes professionally-trained singers with it! If you’re tying the will quietly pose as waiters knot in a venue with historic during your meal, only to significance, many of them will

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BH13 PHOTOGRAPHY

If your venue has sound restrictions such as needing the music cut by midnight (or even 10pm), then a silent disco could be your perfect solution!

Instead of blasting music from a sound system, you can give your guests wireless headphones that play up to three different channels of music for them to dance and sing along to. Not only will everyone have something for their musical tastes (no more choosing between drum and bass floorfillers and golden oldies!), but it also means that everyone not on the dancefloor will be able to chat and relax without shouting over music. Win-win!

PICKATURE PHOTOGRAPHY

reason – they’re great fun!

Whether you hire a booth or make your own, you can add your own little twists to make it personal to your wedding, such as adding themed props or picking specific fancy dress (i.e. 1920s accessories for a Great Gatsby-style wedding).

Another option is hiring a video booth, where your guests can leave you messages in a video guest book, or a super fun slo-mo booth that’ll make for a hilarious wedding video to watch back!

put on tours for guests to show them the sights. Marrying on a farm? Your venue may be able to provide a petting zoo for your guests to enjoy (particularly the young ones!).

Some venues even come with unique elements like vintage carousels or aquariums.

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Want a low-key entertainment idea that doubles as an icebreaker? Put your favourite board games on each of your reception tables! Not only will these get everyone around the table talking and laughing, but they can also be incorporated into your table centrepieces for a cute and colourful table display. Plus, you get to keep the games afterwards as keepsakes from your big day!

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The key to keeping a wedding reception flowing is to have a mix of different spaces, so if space and budget permits, consider setting up a cosy corner or lounge for your guests to relax in. It’ll give them some seating options that aren’t at the reception tables, and will be ideal for more intimate chats or downtime from other entertainment options – something that will be really appreciated by elderly guests.

The best thing is, it can be as elegant or laidback as you prefer. For an outdoor festival wedding, place hay bales around a campfire with warm blankets, or for a vintage-style wedding, hire some elegant sofas with pretty throw pillows. It’s an extra touch that your guests will love, trust us!

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LUKE HOLROYD PHOTOGRAPHY

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How to... With

A

PEPPERMINT LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY

side from hiring a great magician, giant garden games, a string quartet or a caricaturist to entertain guests during your wedding reception, consider hiring something edible. Wedding guests of any age love the idea of eating a treat, especially if it’s presented in a fun and unusual way. Be inspired by these 5 ideas, available to hire or create at every Bijou Wedding Venue.

PIMP YOUR PROSECCO STAND Get your guests involved by having them add edible touches to their glass of post-wedding ceremony Prosecco. This idea works perfectly inside or out, at any time of year.

ICE CREAM TRIKE If you’re having a summer wedding then hiring an ice cream trike is a must. Choose from a selection of delicious flavours and be sure to have your photographer capture images of you with your wedding party enjoying the taste of sweet ice cream after your nuptials.

PEPPERMINT LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY

CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN Allow your guests to indulge at your evening reception by dipping into a luxurious chocolate fountain. Opt for milk, dark or white chocolate and don’t forget to order a variety of fresh fruit and marshmallows so that there’s something for everyone.

EMMA-JANE PHOTOG

Location, location!

POPCORN MACHINE InWow termsyour of finding theguests perfect evening by offering them a box of freshly venue, couples are expanding popped popcorn, made in front of their eyes via a retro their horizons and machine. continually popcorn making If you’re opting for a vintage wedding seeking to theme look outside or youthe simply love the idea of offering your guests something unique box.

Industrial spaces with on your evening buffet, hiring a popcorn machine could and be a perfect idea! creative lighting solutions bohemian romance on the Bijou Wedding Venues have a wealth of experience when it beach are the kind of weddings comes to throwing amazing weddings at their exclusive use that are starting to my venues, all located fill within 30-90 minutes of London. Visit bijouweddingvenues.co.uk or call 0345 130 9966 to book your perfect day with Bijou!

BABB PHOTOGRAPHY

RAPHY

SWEETIE CART Bring out the inner child in your wedding guests by hiring a vintage-style sweetie cart. Why not personalise the cart by ordering monogrammed sweet bags? Or consider offering sweets instead of individual favours to save on your budget.

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DELICIOUS DISHES ONE OF THE MOST NOTABLE THINGS ABOUT JESMOND DENE IS THE INCREDIBLE MENU. FINE DINING AT ITS BEST!

LOVE OUR WEDDING REVIEWS...

Jesmond Dene We visited this beautiful venue in Newcastle for a blissful break

WHAT IS THE JESMOND DENE LIKE?

The Grade ll-Listed Jesmond Dene House steeped in rich history, has plenty of quirky corners and most definitely has personality in abundance.

Newcastle’s only independentlyowned boutique hotel overlooks a wooded valley, offering a country feel yet only a 5-10 minute drive from the city centre. Inside is a joy to behold with wood panelling, polished floorboards and lavish inglenook fireplaces in each of the lounge areas including the cocktail bar, which have all been skillfully combined with boutique style furniture, velvet sofas and deep rich colours. Modern art and various wire sculptures give the feel of a peaceful, distinctive country house. Alongside the hotel, there’s the magnificent, wilder garden of Jesmond Dene.

A wooded valley of native and exotic trees, criss-crossed

with paths and dotted with waterfalls and rustic bridges, the Dene most certainly offers and delivers the most romantic walks no matter the season and we thoroughly enjoyed our brisk walk prior to breakfast.

CAN YOU GET MARRIED THERE?

Yes you can! Jesmond Dene has a licence to hold civil ceremonies so you can marry and celebrate there. They offer WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE? both grand rooms and intimate Jesmond Dene House boasts spaces, so you can be as lowa three AA rosette restaurant key or as flamboyant as you that epitomises fine dining, like here. providing honest flavours, locally-sourced produce and To book your big day plenty of attention to detail. at Jesmond Dene, visit All of our meals were tasty, but jesmonddenehouse.co.uk. the ‘pièce de résistance’ was saved until last. Entitled Dark Chocolate Sphere, we were presented each with a simple chocolate sphere, which then almost majestically had warm chocolate sauce drizzled over the top melting the sphere revealing the salted caramel, peanuts and delicious caramel ice cream that awaited inside.

Truly delightful!

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The Indie Wedding Fair Sheffield

TM

Sunday 30th April, 11- 4

PHOTO BY HELENA MARIE

92 Burton Road, S38DA www.indieweddingfair.co.uk

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GIFT LIST The geniuses at The Wedding Shop share modern vs vintage gift list ideas 1. Stelton copper jug, £119 2. Georg Jensen bloom bowl, £120 3. Alessi cocktail set, £160 4. Joseph Joseph chopping board set, £75 5. GoPro Action Camcord, £409 6. Sonos wireless speakers, £169 7. KitchenAid Nespresso coffee machine, £300 8. Stelton vase, £60 9. Newgate clock, £140 10. Pooky lamp, £145

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GIFT LIST 1. Vintage Playing Cards ‘All You Need Is Love’ artwork, £99 2. Tweedmill throw, £55 3. Canvas Home tinware mug, £7 4. Nkuku lanterns, £49.95 5. Iittala glass cake stand, £49 6. Garden Trading picnic basket, £42 7. Addison Ross mother of pearl photo frame, £36.25 8. KitchenAid artisan food mixer, £449 9. Le Creuset set of 6 egg cups, £45 10. Le Creuset tea making set, £120

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See our website: www.sinfoniawedding.com Enter the code: LOW0012 on your request to get a special present

S Sinfonia Wedding Events & Special Weddings

Destination weddings in Italy offer much more than just a wedding! At Sinfonia Weddings we will help you create your perfect day, discovering beautiful venues together, from a Roman Temple in Sicily to a vineyard on the sea, or a Medieval Castle hidden behind the hills.

See you in Italy soon! email: barbara@sinfoniawedding.com www.sinfoniawedding.com

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SUMMER VS WINTER BREAKS

Honeymoon wish list ideas

Buy Our Honeymoon share top ideas for your summer/winter trip!

GIFT THE GIFT OF AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE FOR NEWLYWEDS...

A honeymoon gift list is the perfect way to turn your wedding gifts into the honeymoon of your dreams. If you don’t need the traditional department store stuff for your home, Buy Our Honeymoon’s service lets you instead create a unique gift list of activities, experiences and contributions towards making your honeymoon happen.

Thousands of couples have used their service to help fund honeymoons all over the world, all year round. Here are some of their favourite real wedding gifts for winter and summer honeymoons…

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WINTER

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BANFF HOT SPRINGS

Let your wedding guests treat you to an afternoon of relaxation at the natural hot springs near Banff in the Canadian Rockies.

Watch snow falling on the mountains as the waters soothe away all your cares.

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A FEW APRÈSSKI GLUVINES OVERLOOKING THE MATTERHORN

What would be the point of skiing without the après-ski?

Warm, mulled wine by the fireside in a cabin among the misty peaks – cosy romance!

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HELI HIKE AT THE FRANZ JOSEPH GLACIER

New Zealand is famous for its spectacular landscape, and the Franz Joseph Glacier is one of the most impressive sights of all. Take a panoramic helicopter flight over the dramatic terrain and then explore ice caves with a professional guide.

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KAKSLAUTTANEN ARCTIC RESORT IN FINLAND

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For a truly unforgettable winter honeymoon experience, why not stay in a glass roofed igloo? Take husky or reindeer sleigh rides across the perfect frozen landscape, chasing the Northern Lights.

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THE RADIO CITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

New York in winter is magical, and for 75 years, Radio City has played host to the most legendary Christmas show in town.

Seeing the Rockettes’ eye-high kicking is worth the ticket price alone!

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SUMMER the lake. Enjoy dinner, dancing, and live entertainment, followed by a front row seat to the Lights on the Lake Croatia’s breathtaking natural fireworks celebration! beauty makes it perfect for a summer honeymoon, and GO TO A MUSIC the seven waterfalls of the FESTIVAL Krka National Park make it Glastonbury, Coachella or one of the most spectacular Burning Man. A fabulous mini experiences of them all. honeymoon at one of the best parties on earth – as a gift from FIREWORKS your guests!

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KRKA NATIONAL PARK AND WATERFALLS

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CRUISE ON LAKE TAHOE

Fourth of July party on the Tahoe Queen, anchored on

sunflowers in Tuscany bloom in July. Why not let your wedding guests buy you a romantic honeymoon picnic?

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IT’S ALWAYS SUMMER SOMEWHERE!

The ideal time to enjoy jet 8 skiing in the Seychelles or to lounge in a hammock in the 2 Maldives is between November and April – so even when it’s winter in the UK, there are ROMANTIC EUROPE warm crystal waters and The lavender fields in white sand beaches waiting Provence and the rolling hills of for you there!

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FIND OUT MORE To find out more about Buy Our Honeymoon’s wedding gift list service, check out buy-our-honeymoon.com or call 0345 224 0189.

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ELLA ROSA

JOHN CHARLES

CATHERINE PARRY

FREYA ROSE

Old Thorns Manor Hotel, Liphook.

26TH FEBRUARY

Tracy Park Hotel, Wick, nr Bath. pmnweddingfayres.co.uk THE NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW

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London Olympia, London.

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The Royal Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa. vintagechicweddingfair.co.uk

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Talbot Hotel, Malton. theweddingaffair.co.uk

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Carlton Towers, Goole.

Marriott Portsmouth, Harbour Gate Business Park, Southampton Road, Portsmouth.

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Swinton Park, Masham. theweddingaffair.co.uk

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Try, buy, book and hire from over 500 wedding specialists

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Classic bridal and wedding jewellery with a modern twist, handmade for your special day.

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Luxurious wines for your special day

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0161 905 3542

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LOVE OUR WEDDING

Fashion Special • Feast your eyes on the best new bridal collections for summer • The best wedding hair ideas for you and your maids • Venue inspiration from all over the UK

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• Little finishing touches that will make a HUGE difference to your day (and don’t cost a lot!)

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