Love Our Wedding - November/December 2022

www.martinthornburg.com

Ed’s letter

It’s that time of year when the hot water bottles are out, the big thick winter jumpers are on, and cosy nights in become the norm. Personally I love this time of year, and with many brides planning ahead for their 2023 weddings, it’s the perfect time to knuckle down with some planning, ideas, and of course, buying!

This issue we have lots of exciting things for you, including four stunning real weddings (from page 66), tons of dresses to fall in love with, for every season (page 19), and some lovely details to complete your day (from page 59). So wherever you are in the planning process, we’ve got you covered!

My favourite feature this issue gives an insight into the world of Hotpod Yoga – an innovative yoga practice taking the world by storm, in 37 degree heat! Great for both the body and mind, and ideal for releasing pre-wedding stresses (page 92). I’m a member myself, and highly recommend! We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we loved writing it for you.

JADE PEPPERELL Editor

My favourite picks this month!

1. This gold bracelet from Annie Haak is a steal for £58 2. I adore all the new dresses in the Romantica collection, but I think Palmer might just be my favourite!

3. Paradox make gorgeous bridal shoes like this, available at Debenhams for £65.

4. Splurge on this amazing brooch from Thomas Sabo, £298 5. This Freddie suit from Roco Clothing is just the cutest idea for your pageboy, from £50

ARLETTE A VERY SOPHISTICATED STYLE THAT OOZES CLASS AND GLAMOUR. WE LOVE THE LOW CUT SIDES

ALARA FEAST YOUR EYES ON THIS FIGUREHUGGING STYLE. TICKING ALL OUR BOXES!

ALARA IMAGINE YOUR PARTNER’S FACE WHEN THEY SEE YOU ENTER THE ROOM IN THIS BEAUTY. THERE WON’T BE A DRY EYE IN THE HOUSE!

ALYSON THIS GOWN IS THE PERFECT EXAMPLE OF HOW A DRESS CAN WOW WITHOUT BEING OVERLY DRAMATIC. CHIC SIMPLICITY

AMINA A FLOATY DESIGN THAT WOULD WORK REALLY WELL FOR A SUMMER WEDDING OR BIG DAY OVERSEAS

DIOR

YVES SAINT LAURENT MAKE A STATEMENT IN THIS JAW DROPPER, COMPLETE WITH A SPARKLY SKIRT AND OVERSIZED ROSE MOTIF

Exclusive competition WIN A DRESS

DESIGNED BY

Dando London gowns, designed by British designer Christine Dando, ensure modern brides look sophisticated & glamorous! Her collection features timeless Hollywood classics, embodies femininity & evokes feelings of confidence to all their brides. And now you could be a lucky winner of one of their designs!

TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning a designer wedding dress by Dando London, up to the value of £2000, head to the Dando London Instagram page for entry details.

@dandolondon. Competition closes 31st January 2023.

T&CS 1. The prize is a dress from the Dando London collection up to the value of £2000. 2. The winner must visit an approved & recommended Dando London stockist. Details will be provided to the winner. 3. This prize is strictly subject to availability & cannot be resold. 4. The prize is non-transferable & there is no cash alternative. 5. Prize does not include any accessories or alterations. 6. Prize does not include any travel expenses. 7. The winner must have a wedding date after 1.8.2023. 8. The winner must allow 6 months for delivery from date of ordering. 9. If a prize of less than £2000 is chosen, the winner will not receive the balance in cash or credit. 10. Employees & their families are not allowed to enter.

FLOWERBOMB

TWILLY

MISS DIOR

www.eandwcouture.co.uk BRONTE

www.eandwcouture.co.uk HARPER

www.specialday-ireland.com STYLE E23925

www.ronaldjoyce.com STYLE 69759-7454

FestiveFeasts!

Ready in 3 hours 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

SERVES 4

1 orange, halved 4kg whole ready-to-cook turkey 350ml frozen Slimming World Roasted Onion Gravy (available from Iceland) 400g spring greens, shredded

For the roots: 800g floury potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks 500g carrots, peeled and sliced into batons

800g parsnips, peeled and sliced into batons Low-calorie cooking spray

For the stuffing parcels: Pack of frozen Linda McCartney 6 Vegetarian Red Onion & Rosemary Sausages, defrosted

Preheat your oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4. Put the orange inside the turkey cavity, then roast for 2 hours, or until the juices run clear when the thickest part of the leg is pierced, or

a meat thermometer inserted into the same place reads 70°C or above. Remove from the oven, cover loosely with foil and leave to rest somewhere warm (it will stay hot for up to 2 hours).

For the roots, spread the veg in a large, non-stick baking tin in a single layer (or use 2 tins). Spray with low-calorie cooking spray, season and roast for 40 minutes, turning halfway. Remove from the oven. Lightly bash the potatoes using a spatula, then spray with a little low-calorie cooking spray. Cook for a further 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, break the sausages into a bowl and mash together using your hands. Divide the mixture into 12 portions, then roll each into a ball and set aside. Halve each bacon rasher lengthways to give you 12 long strips, then cut each strip in half again widthways so you have 24 shorter strips. Wrap 2 around each stuffing ball like ribbons around a present, then insert a sprig of rosemary into each ball of stuffing. Place on a non-stick baking tray and spray with low-calorie cooking spray. Once the veg have been cooking for an hour, add the stuffing to the oven below

©Slimming World 2022

‘Slimming World’ is a trademark of Miles-Bramwell Executive Services operating as Slimming World.

Images: Slimming World/Gareth Morgans, Nassima Rothaker, Danielle Wood

All recipes are taken from Slimming World’s collection. Recipes are based on Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan and the liberating concept of Free Food – food that is naturally lower in energy density (calories per gram) and most satiating, so you stay fuller for longer. To find out more about Slimming World and how to join, visit slimmingworld. co.uk or slimmingworld.ie, or call 0344 897 8000 or 01 656 9696.

the veg and cook everything for a further 25 minutes until the veg are golden and caramelised, and the bacon is cooked through and crisp.

Meanwhile, boil the sprouts for 2 minutes, then drain and leave to steam dry. Spray a large, non-stick frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and place over a medium-high heat. Add the sprouts and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly caramelised. Add the lemon juice and Parmesan, toss everything together and cook for a further 1-2 minutes until the sprouts are tender.

Heat the gravy according to the pack instructions and boil the spring greens for 2-3 minutes, then drain. Discard the turkey skin, then slice the turkey meat and divide between 4 plates along with the root veg, sprouts and stuffing balls. Add a twist of black pepper to the turkey, pour over the gravy and serve with the spring greens.

*Pregnant women, the elderly, babies and toddlers are advised to choose eggs showing the British Lion stamp if eating raw or partially cooked eggs.

GET INTO THE SPIRIT WITH THESE SUPER-FESTIVE BITES FROM SLIMMING WORLD

TURKEY WITH ROASTED ROOTS, STUFFING PARCELS & PARMESAN SPROUTS

POTATO CAKES WITH SMOKED SALMON

Ready in 45 minutes

INGREDIENTS

675g floury potatoes, peeled and chopped into similar-size pieces 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 15g fresh chives, chopped 120g fat-free natural fromage frais 2 level tbsp horseradish sauce

SERVES 4

Low-calorie cooking spray 300g smoked salmon slices 120g mix of rocket and spinach, to serve Lemon wedges, to serve

METHOD

SERVES 6

Put the potatoes in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until really tender. Drain well and mash. Gradually mix in the eggs with most of the chives and season well.

In a small bowl, mix together the fromage frais and horseradish. Cover with clingfilm and set aside.

Preheat your oven to its lowest setting. Spray a large, non-stick frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and place over a medium heat. Drop 6 spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the pan (using up half of the mixture and leaving space around each one) and press down with the back of a spoon to flatten. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown, turning halfway. Remove from the pan and keep warm in the oven. Repeat to make 12 potato cakes.

Arrange the potato cakes on 6 serving plates and divide over the horseradish sauce. Top with the salmon and remaining chives. Add a twist of black pepper and serve with the rocket and spinach, and lemon wedges for squeezing over.

Tip: You can make the potato cakes in advance. Once cooked, leave to cool, then cover and chill in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat in the oven at 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4 on a lined baking tray for 20 minutes, or until piping hot throughout

Ready in 40 minutes, plus cooling

INGREDIENTS

4 large eggs

50g granulated sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

100g self-raising flour

SERVES 8

4 level tbsp reduced-sugar raspberry jam

25g desiccated coconut

8 fresh raspberries, to decorate, plus extra to serve

Fat-free natural yogurt, to serve

METHOD

Preheat your oven to 190°C/fan 170°C/ gas 5 and line a 20 x 30cm cake tin with baking paper. In a mixing bowl, use an electric hand whisk to beat the eggs and sugar for 5-8 minutes until the mixture doubles in volume, is thick, light and foamy, and leaves a trail when you lift the whisk.

Add the vanilla extract, sift in the flour, then gently fold together. Pour the

mixture into the tin, and bake for 10-15 minutes until risen and shrinking away from the sides. Leave to cool completely in the tin.

Once cool, remove the sponge from the tin and carefully remove the paper. Spread the jam evenly over the sponge and sprinkle over the coconut. Cut into 8 equal pieces and top each with a raspberry. Serve with extra raspberries and a dollop of yogurt.

RASPBERRY & COCONUT SPONGE

www.rainbowclub.co.uk Lace heels, £110

www.debenhams.com Paradox shoes, £59

www.tedbaker.com Floral heels, £135

www.debenhams.com Paradox shoes, £65

www.monsoon.co.uk Bow heel shoes, £90

www.next.co.uk Brooch slingbacks, £49

www.deichmann.com Mary Jane heels, £24.99

www.tedbaker.com Bow detail shoes, £135

www.dunelondon.com Marriage shoes, £195

www.dunelondon.com Bluebell shoes, £195

HIGH STREET

www.dunelondon.com Dedicated shoes, £165

www.tkmaxx.com Feather stilettos, £24.99

Fashion your feet with these top-to-toe pretty wedding shoes...

www.seolgold.com Sapphire stud earrings, £24

www.homesense.co.uk Cake stand, £16.99

Regal THEME INSPIRATION

www.tkmaxx.com Crown decoration, £3.99

www.rococlothing.co.uk Pageboy suit, £50

Crown biscuit favour, £10.95

www.morilee.co.uk Style 30117_0154, £POA

www.breezefurnishings.com

www.cutterandsquidge.com

Lemon drizzle cake, £23.50

www.gettingpersonal.co.uk Metal sign, £28.99

www.cutterandsquidge.com Afternoon tea, £29.90 www.dunelondon.com

A MAGICAL BIG DAY

Yasmina & Chris

Bride Yasmina reveals all...

How did he propose?

It was Christmas Eve. Chris whisked me away to the South West of the UK, a lovely little place called Tiverton. We stayed in a cabin which had a gorgeous view of icy hills and roaming sheep. There was a hot tub on the grounds, which I was bobbing about wearing a red “Santa Baby’ swimsuit waiting for Chris to appear from the cabin kitchen. He appeared around the corner in a white snowman mankini (lol) and situated himself outside the hot tub and presented a small box. He opened it and looked at me. Me, not wanting to assume anything, said “that’s such a lovely ring,” to which he responded “do ya wanna marry me then?”

I was looking for! The boutique was filled with the most beautiful array of dresses, I’m a total sucker for anything that shines so I was fully sucked in straight away grabbing green and red dresses - forgetting why I was in the boutique in the first place! I had one of my bridesmaids with me, I really wasn’t expecting to buy a dress that day! If you don’t really look, it tends to find you I suppose.

And the accessories?

What dress did you wear and where did you buy it?

The Stella White dress from Nadine Merabi, purchased in a lovely boutique called Finique in Essex. Finula (the boutique owner) was so helpful and really understands fashion in a way that’s accessible. I had seen the dress online, and then I believe it wasn’t a wedding dress per se, but it had all the elements

I chose a pair of white satin 3 inch block heels from ASOS. To be honest, I won’t wear white heels again so they were perfect for the day. I had to actually bin them after the day because they were absolutely ruined with splashes of plonk and from trekking along the grass to get some epic sunset shots. My accessories came from independent designers on ETSY. Earrings and hair grip by Constance Handcrafted, and bracelet by 10 West Jewellery.

What did the groom wear?

An ASOS 3 piece suit. The groomsmen all wore the same and they looked super handsome I must say!

We can’t get enough of this elegant wedding!

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

Very calm, content and excited but not in a rushy way. Just excited to be his wife and to continue our amazing life together. I didn’t drink before the ceremony as I wanted to actually feel the emotions that were due to come - apart from one shot of 1942 tequila!

Who were your bridesmaids and where were their dresses from?

They were from many different designers. It was important to me that everyone felt comfortable and beautiful! Some of the places we bought from were White Fox Boutique and ASOS. A few friends had mentioned before the dread of having their dresses chosen for them. My gals (and guy) are all different shapes and sizes so it’s surely impossible to have them all wear the same thing? Food for thought!

What was your wedding theme?

The theme was Midnight Summer Dream, which a very good friend of ours, Sherry, suggested. It’s perfect for us, bold, rich and muted colours with a pop of metallic here and there. The caterers we used (Florentina - covering Norfolk) hooked us up with really fun suppliers so we had all different colour glasswear, napkins etc. The cake was sensational, matching the theme so perfectly! We went with

Wedding

VENDORS

date - 12/07/22

Venue - Barn Drift, Norfolk NR257TY

Photographer - Sammy Taylor @ sammytaylor.weddingphotography

Videographer - Libby Blunt @ libbybluntvideography

a wooden vibe for the tables and chairs, so to complement the theme. We didn’t actually have table cloths as they took from the natural wood and also we knew we’d have a few spillages to say the least! The after party was themed Studio 54 and that was suggested by my two bridesmaids Becca and Libby - awesome shout. It was a night to remember!

What was the highlight of your day?

That is SO hard to say. I think when the band were going for it and Chris and I were on shoulders surrounded by our unbelievably gorgeous crew of mates. It was special! Pandora’s Jukebox has to be one of the best live bands I have ever seen. We actually discovered them at another wedding years before, even before we were engaged. I think they were the first suppliers I contacted when we got engaged - they are THAT good! Along with the

opening of Studio 54! I think the sunrise and the sunset are still unrivalled sights that day, it was a full moon and it looked as if it was right in front of our faces!

What was your best buy?

I think my best buy was my wedding dress. Sounds like a standard answer BUT hear me out... I didn’t spend big bucks on it. Under £550. It was stretchy, so it didn’t need any alterations. The bottom was structured so it didn’t drag off the ground leaving me with a shadow of a dress the day after the wedding! My other on par buy was my Studio 54 dress designed by Claudia Pink, a Liverpool-based designed who is well known for her festival wear and crystal jewellery. This dress is a serious show stopper. I love to encourage purchases from independent designers like Claudia, the pieces are so special. I’ll keep that forever.

A STUNNING SOMERSET WEDDING

Joanna & Daniel

How did he propose?

Every year growing up, my family went camping in Cornwall and my favourite beach to visit was Watergate Bay near Newquay. We were due to go and visit my mum there on her holiday, but the day before I went to Plymouth with some friends to watch Six: The Musical and I had a bit to drink and then we missed the last connecting train home! Dan had to get his 11 year old son Archie out of bed to come and pick me up from Exeter station. The following day was quite cloudy and I was a little under the weather but we decided to head down to Watergate anyway. We sat on the beach with my mum for a while and then decided we would go back to the campsite and hope the weather would pick up for a beach walk later. Dan took some things up to the car (and to get the ring although I didn’t know this at the time!) and came back down saying the weather looked to be brightening and we should go for a walk. We did and at one point, Mum stopped us to take a photo and as she did so, Dan got down on one knee. My response was, “Shut up!”. He was quite emotional so managed to spit out, “You know I love you so much, will

you marry me?” and of course I said yes!

What dress did you wear and where did you buy it?

When I went dress shopping, I took a list with me of the ones I liked and the consultant pulled 3 from my list and then a wildcard one. I tried the 4 dresses on and fell in love with the wildcard: Bali. She fit me like a glove and made me feel beautiful! I walked out of the shop with her in a box.

And the accessories?

I wore some beautiful ear cuff earrings from Lovisa, a necklace from Claire’s Accessories, a watch that I’ve had for years, my grandmother’s bracelet and custom lace Alice in Wonderland shoes from Shoenique. I did change in to some white Converse trainers after the ceremony!

What did the groom wear?

Dan wore the Fellini Tailored suit from Slater Menswear. He went to the Bristol store. The groomsmen all wore the same suits with ties and pocket squares, brown shoes and belts. I bought Dan engraved cufflinks and a tie pin from Etsy seller

This sophisticated celebration in the South West is full of inspiration. Bride Joanna tells her story...

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

I was so nervous approaching the aisle. I didn’t want to fall down the uneven stone steps so I had a tight hold of my dad. Before walking down the aisle, I was worried about whether I should look at our guests or just look at Dan. When I got to the entrance of the Orangery, the choice was gone as my eyes fixated on Dan. I didn’t notice what was going on around me. I didn’t even see the beautiful flowers by Edwina’s Flowers that had been set up. I could see that Dan was feeling emotional so I just smiled ear to ear at him to try to put him at ease. I was so eager to get down the aisle to him!

Who were your bridesmaids and where were their dresses from?

My maid of honour was my best friend Charlie, then I had bridesmaids Laura and Steph, and Dan’s niece Paris. They all looked incredible in their dresses from TFNC London. The dress that Steph wore was actually her bridesmaid dress for Laura’s wedding, but due to Covid, Laura had a small ceremony without bridesmaids in the end so Paris wore my dress - these were my ‘something borrowed’! We couldn’t get two more dresses for Charlie

CustomGiftCoUk as well as a personalised pocket watch from Not On The Highstreet. One of the best men got them socks and hip flasks.

VENDORS

Wedding date: 18th August 2022

Venue: Hestercombe House and Gardens, Somerset Photographer: Capture The Moment

and Laura in the same colour so they were a slightly darker shade but I loved this.

What was your wedding theme?

The wedding didn’t start off having a theme as such. The venue is such a beautiful location that it doesn’t really need a theme. I do quite enjoy crafts though and I did think that macrame arches looked stunning so I decided to make my own! I figured that if it was a disaster, it wouldn’t matter and it just wouldn’t get used. It wasn’t a disaster and it looked beautiful at the end of the aisle (and hanging on our living room wall now!). This led to me making macrame collars for jars of flowers and bunting for the top table so we had slightly rustic looking centrepieces and due to our love of Harry Potter, we had some quotes around and the tables named after couples from the stories. I created the stationery on Canva and put them into Ikea frames.

What was the highlight of your day?

It is so hard to choose the highlight of the day! It was just incredible to marry my best friend. However, it was incredibly special that my youngest brother played piano for us before the ceremony, as I walked down the aisle and during moments of the ceremony as well as when we walked out. It was also magical to have my younger sister there as she lives in Australia and I got to meet my nephew for the first time this summer and have him at the wedding too.

What was your best buy?

We had bubbles instead of confetti and I can’t remember what they cost but they were pennies from Trago Mills! I love the photos of us walking through them. Also, I only decided on the day to wear a veil so I had only bought a cheap one and I actually am so glad I wore it; it made me feel super bridal and added an extra something to the photos!

LOVE COMMITTED IN LONDON

Tayler & Jayden

How did Jayden propose?

On our 6th year anniversary of being a couple, I told Tayler that we would go for drinks and a dinner in the City. Little did she know that I had booked a room at the Langham, which had a balcony overseeing the city. I had it organised with flowers and a photographer waiting for us. I had also secretly organised to get mine and Tayler’s parents in the city without them knowing it was for the engagement. We all had drinks to celebrate.

What dress did Tayler wear and where did she buy it?

My dress was custom made by Sam at Oglia-loro Couture in South Yarra Melbourne. I’ve always loved his designs and knew I wanted my gown specifically designed by him. There were many conversations with Sam in relation to style and fabric, given our ceremony was at St Patrick’s Cathedral, we felt it demanded grandeur. But given that we got married in March and it was likely to be hot, I didn’t want anything heavy that would weigh me down. In the end we chose a gown that was personalised to the day we wanted to

have. My dress was a combination of 2 tone Italian tulle, lined with a beautiful nude silk fabric. It was feather light, and beautifully designed. The inner corset was structured and cinched to emphasise my waistline and the tulle was carefully pleated to give a layered look with a dramatic split to give it a modern feel. We also kept in line with tradition of being a full skirt with a beautiful long train.

What was your theme?

We wanted a modern and luxe wedding. Everything was based around Gold, Black, White and pale pinks and we used a lot of modern furnishings. AMICA event hire provided the flowers, bridal table, chairs, cutlery and table settings that gave us this look and feel. We had a white elegant cake that was subtle in terms of decoration. It was a choc-marble mud cake draped with white fondant folds. We also had our fresh flowers placed on the cake. At the venue for our bridal table and table settings we had AMICA event hire. They were the most realistic synthetic flowers we had seen and it allowed us to get our colour palette exactly how we

A chic wedding with a dreamy dress!

This lovely couple answered our questions together...

wanted it to. Our bouquets, corsages and the men’s pins were from Station Place florist and they were simply blush white and pink roses and orchards for the bridal bouquet

How did you choose your table décor?

We wanted our guests to be able to see and speak with each other from across the table so we opted for raised flower centrepieces this also added a big wow factor when guests entered the venue. Then when it came to cutlery and crockery we wanted to amp up our colour palette with gold chrome cutlery and clear charger plates. This was the matched with our white and gold chrome chairs. We opted to have consistency from the bridal table to guest table and the entry decorations – gold chrome, blush pink florals and monochrome backgrounds.

What were your highlights from the day?

Seeing Tayler come down the aisle and realising that this was the big moment. The overwhelming feeling of seeing everybody we love in the same room. Walking in to see our reception decorated immaculately and our vision in real life. We also loved the big party towards the end of the night.

VENDORS

Wedding Invitations: www.giantinvitations.com.au

Dress: Oglia Loro Couture www.oglia-loro.com

Veil: Oglia Loro Couture

Make Up: Sabilla Sutarno makeup

Hair: Salon 21

Accessories: Stephanie Browne jewelry

Bridesmaids Dresses: Barianno www.bariano.com.au

Groom’s Suit: Formal Red

Groomsmen Suit: Formal Red www.formalred.com.au

Cake: Pastel & Bloomwww.pastelandbloom.com.au

Food: Metropolis Events - www.

metropolisevents.com.au

Flowers: AMICA Event Hirewww.amicaeventhire.com

Photographer: Yervant Photographywww.yervantphotography.com

Ceremony Venue: St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Reception Venue: Metropolis Events

Entertainment: Maya Vice + Tim the DJ Sax + Mike Snell

Celebrant: FR. Alex Chow

Transport: The Limo Company www.thelimocompany.com.au

Wedding Favours: Freixenet Rose

Any Other Vendors: Melbourne Chandelier Company

Any DIY décor elements?

We had the opportunity to style the whole venue completely from scratch so it was our vision but our suppliers made it all happen. The only DIY thing were our wedding favours, which we purchased individually and tied a greeting card to.

Any sentimental personal touches?

Our entry song was the theme to Friends because everybody knows it’s Tayler’s favourite show. The wedding date is right in the middle of our birthdays and it also happens to be the day we celebrate our uncle and grandfathers’ birthday on each side! The venue is directly below where I proposed to Tayler so it felt like full circle. A couple of years ago, Tayler’s grandfather passed on the same day and to our family, especially her Nanna, it felt like a nice way to remember and honour him.

Any tips that you can give to future brides?

Double and triple check all your appointments and conversations with suppliers – you’ll have a million things happening at once so just always check twice at least. Book your reception ASAP: With delays and reschedules it’s always going to be tough to get the venue you want on the day that you’d like. Don’t compromise on the things that will make your day. Finally, your bridesmaids and groomsmen will help you more than you think so be thankful.

What’s your saving tip?

Research, research, research! Always look at more than one supplier and find the best value for what you are getting. Some things you know you have to splurge for because it’s important for your day – don’t compromise on those things!

Olivia & Stanley AN AMAZING AUTUMNAL DAY

How did he propose?

The proposal took place on the 8th July 2020. The backdrop was the beautifully restored Georgian manor house, Heckfield Place, rewoven into 400 acres of luscious, secluded Hampshire countryside. This two-day break could not have begun any better, with a picturesque walk around the lake in the glorious sunshine followed by a grand meal in the restaurant. Stanley is literally the ‘Rain Man’ and I’m not referring to the Dustin Hoffman/Tom Cruise film (unless you can count cards, if so we’re off to Vegas baby!). He says that ‘the rain follows him wherever he goes’ and this was no exception. The proposal day arrived as did the torrential rain. Stanley had arranged a romantic picnic under a stone gazebo within the beautiful grounds. However, after several minutes of trudging across water drenched gravel to the location, Stanley abandoned this plan and sought assistance from the staff at the venue. They were brilliant and re-located us to our private greenhouse, which wasn’t even open to the public. The scene was perfect, and Stanley had pulled out all the stops, with my favourite sweet treats and champagne. As if by

magic the rain ended, the sun came out, and Stanley dropped to his knee asking me to make him the happiest man in the world. Of course, I said, ‘yes’ and this fairy tale proposal was sealed with the biggest spectrum of colour in a rainbow over us.

What dress did you wear and where did you buy it?

My wedding dress was by Dando London. I bought it from a boutique bridal shop located in Ketteringham Hall (Norfolk) called Adella.

What accessories did you wear and where were they from?

I wore classic ivory Manolo Blahnik heels, paired with pearl and silver drop earrings. For perfume I wore Maison Francis Kurkdjian Gentle Fluidity Gold.

What did the groom wear?

Stanley wore a full Tom Ford midnight blue tuxedo and Dior suit shoes. For his fragrance, he wore Tom ford Tobacco Vanille.

How did you feel walking down the aisle?

Right as the ceremony started, as the

We are feeling the love for this stunning wedding! Bride Olivia tells her story...

bridesmaids were walking down the aisle, I was hit with every emotion possible. Happy, excited, nervous, anxious, OMG I’M GETTING MARRIED! I waited until a certain point in mine and Stanley’s favourite Adele song “One and Only” and the doors opened. While I was walking down the aisle, all my attention was focused on getting to the end to Stanley. I can’t remember how the room looked or who was sitting where. It was a totally surreal moment. All I remember is seeing Stanley waiting for me at the other end of the room, it felt as if I floated. Once I was there and my husband was holding my hands I started to calm down and feel better. My advice would be don’t get too worked up about the moment. It’s over quickly and the best parts will come after. Whatever happens, good or bad, just go with it and keep going.

Who were your bridesmaids? And where were their dresses from?

I had 6 bridesmaids and they consisted of childhood friends and close cousins. They all wore a Dessy from The Dressing Room in Brentwood in the colour Cameo.

What was your wedding theme and how did you create it?

I did a lot of DIY for my wedding. I made my own welcome sign and table plan. And 106 menus all with personalised names and dried gyp. My theme was gold, white and foliage. My bridesmaid bouquets I made

VENDORS

Wedding date 17th October 2022

Venue - Horwood House

Photographer - Emily Little Photography

Videographer - Gaetano di Giacomo

myself from Dunelm. But the rest were all fresh flowers. I loved adding dried flowers into my designs.

What was your favourite part of your wedding day?

The minutes just after the ceremony where Stanley and I just had a little moment to ourselves. We toasted to the fact we just got married and had our whole lives ahead of us. We were excited to celebrate with our friends and family, and let’s face it... PARTY!!

What was your best buy?

The venue. I’ve never in my life experienced such organisation and dedication to a wedding from a venue’s part. Caroline and Vicky in particular are a credit to Horwood House and my wedding wouldn’t have gone as smoothly without them.

What’s your saving tip?

DIY! I did so much DIY’ing, which definitely saved me some money! I looked for local suppliers on Instagram, which helped also.

Your wedding stationery will be your guests’ very first glimpse of your overall wedding style. When you send your save the dates or wedding invitations guests will start to build up an image of your wedding day in their minds, piecing together the location, season and potential colour schemes based on your stationery suite.

While it is true that your own style and taste will be the biggest influence

on your choice of wedding stationery design, there are other concerns that will guide your selection. The venue, wedding date, budget, sustainability and ever-changing trends are all factors that are likely to impact your decision. So what paper pieces will be popular next year? Here, Becci Clubb, founder and designer of ABCD (abcdweddings.co.uk) shares her predictions for next year’s wedding stationery trends…

Bright and bold

Although tuxedos and suits are Rich jewel-like tones are set to be hitting the fashion scene in 2023 and key colours will filter into bridal trends, too. Traditional white wedding details will be injected with a splash of colour, from loud red tones to rich mustard yellows and elegant emerald greens. Stationery will take on vivid gemstone colours, in keeping with other wedding details like bright blooms, colourful cakes and bold bridesmaid gowns. Whether a floral stationery set, like the ABCD Alice Collection, featuring lots of bright colours or a simple design with just one or two bold colours, this trend is sure to make your invitations pop!

Sustainable selections

More and more, eco-conscious couples are looking for responsible suppliers that work sustainably. From stunning bridal gowns made from orange peel fibre (yes, you read that correctly!) by ethical bridal brand Rolling in Roses, to caterers designing their menus from their own homegrown, seasonal produce, a supplier not considering their environmental impact is quickly becoming a deal-breaker for couples. At ABCD, nature and our environment is our biggest source of inspiration and so we try to do all that we can to protect them. All of our designs are made to order, meaning we don’t hold or throw away any unsold stock. Our paper products are all FSC certified, which means they are supplied from carefully managed forests, while the inks we use are eco-solvent ensuring our stationery is suitable for convention recycling. Couples have the option to have their designs printed on recycled stocks or to have their designs created and sent to them digitally if they want to send e-invites.

Textured surface

This year we have seen a move towards textural, natural materials, letting them take centre stage in

wedding styling – think pampas grass bouquets, muslin napkins, bunny tails in rustic stoneware dotted along trestle tables – and this celebration of texture is set to stay. Invitations that are printed on textured card stocks can give a more luxurious finish and create interest for those opting for a neutral colour palette. Ramp it up with velvet ribbons, torn paper edges and embossed lettering for stationery that’s designed to be touched.

Luxe details

The trend for adding luxury detailing is set to stay for 2023. From tassels to silk ribbons and twine to wax seals, it seems the little details really do make all the difference for couples wanting to make an impression with their wedding stationery. This year ABCD have introduced wax seals, fine threads and vellum sleeves to their collections, which already include personalised tags, ribbons, twine and foiling. This trend also feeds into on-the-day styling. Think printed menus displayed along with napkins,

plate chargers and glassware to create elegant place settings, while table plans and oversized signs are finished with fresh flowers or foliage to match the overall wedding theme.

Translucent touch

Echoing barely-there fabrics in bridal wear, sheer and translucent stationery is set to be a trend for 2023. Following acrylic invitations that were a trend in 2022, couples are predicted to turn to vellum stationery details in the coming year. Vellum gives a similar visual effect as acrylic but is kinder to the environment and kinder to your wallet too. Whether used as the invitation itself or as a sleeve holding your invitation packs in one neat bundle, vellum adds a new dimension to traditional paper stationery design. The vellums we use at ABCD are made from wood fibres and are fully recyclable.

Paper personalisation

Personalisation will be a key trend for 2023 weddings as couples strive to make their wedding all about them.

WWW. ABCD-WEDDINGS.CO.UK

Following the Covid pandemic, it has become more important than ever for couples to celebrate their love in their own unique ways. In terms of stationery, this includes completely bespoke designs, unique logos or monograms, and using the couples’ initials on stickers, envelope seals and confetti sachets.

Cutting shapes

For 2023 save-the-dates, invitations and table numbers will be designed in varying shapes, from oval to diagonal. Stepping away from rectangular table numbers or menu cards gives a more modern edge to the wedding styling, and we think it works particularly well in chic, urban venues.

Extravagant envelopes

Rather than just being a way of transporting beautiful stationery to the right address, envelopes are becoming an important part of the stationery suite in their own right. Printed envelope liners that match the invitations are hugely popular at ABCD, along with personalised stickers to seal them. Decorative postage stamps, calligraphy lettering and wax seals also lend themselves to elaborate envelope design.

Purple power

Last year Pantone’s colour of the year was Very Peri and this periwinkle

shade will still be working its way into weddings and wedding stationery in the new year. The colour of the year for 2023 has been announced as, another purple shade, Digital Lavender. We are expecting to see colour schemes that include both tones, with lavender bridesmaid gowns paired with bold peri-hued bouquets. An injection of purples into your stationery designs will ensure your 2023 wedding is bang on trend.

Font focus

Clean fonts paired with swirling calligraphy text continue to reign for the coming year, working together to create a modern and romantic aesthetic. Cursive fonts give designs a

hand-written and personal feel, while sharp lettering ensures the important parts of the invitation are easily readable and concise.

The bottom line when it comes to selecting your wedding stationery? Choose a design that’s in keeping with your wedding theme, check that your products are manufactured in a sustainable way and make sure you are sending mail that you would be thrilled to receive. Fashionable stationery - signed, sealed, delivered!

Credit: Becci Clubb, ABCD (www.abcd-weddings.co.uk)

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• Planning special –2023 brides, we’ve got you! Venues, dresses, photography, decor, tips and advice

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Go with the flow!

RELAX, WORK OUT, AND FEEL THE HEAT ALL IN ONE WITH THIS INCREDIBLE YOGA PRACTICE. INSTRUCTOR, CRIS, TELLS US MORE...

What is Hotpod Yoga?

Hotpod Yoga was launched in 2013. It started with a simple mission: to reinvent yoga for the modern world and to create a supercharged approach to an ancient and powerful practice that could help take yoga out of its niche and into the lives of millions of people previously untouched by (or uninterested in) yoga.

How so?

By creating a yoga experience like no other – one that turned up the dials to new levels. Deeper, more effective, more immersive, more intense, more appealing. Embracing the future, while respecting the past, the Hotpod Yoga experience fuses innovative design and intricate detailing with high quality teaching and real personality.

How is Hotpod Yoga beneficial to its members?

The physical and mental benefits of yoga are innumerable. Aside from providing a challenging workout, it helps to balance the body and mind through physical exercises and controlled breathing. Introducing meditative practices helps us release stress and anxiety, promoting clarity of mind, better focus and increased energy and alertness. It’s about an allround greater sense of well being. The 37 degree heat makes the heart and lungs work a little harder – helping you burn more calories, and giving you a great cardio workout. Warmth also increases flexibility – easing joints and muscles and helping prevent injury. Finally… it’s just the perfect place to focus on, and nurture, you!

Why would HPY be a great option for brides-to-be?

Hotpod Yoga is not only a physical workout, which can help anyone wishing to tone up or lose weight before the big day, it’s also really great for the mind. You can truly relax and ease away any pre-wedding stresses during the class. Perfect for any brides feeling a little overwhelmed with the wedding planning.

Would this work as a hen activity?

Absolutely! It’s a great place to clear the mind and get some fitness in with your girls... Before the cocktails later!

Where can we sign up?

You can download the Hotpod Yoga app or visit www.hotpodyoga.com and select your location.

POSES TO TRY AT HOME!

“My favourite yoga pose is called Humble Warrior. Humble Warrior (also called Bound Warrior) is a standing yoga pose that combines a chest opener with a forward bend to expand the heart while drawing attention and focus inward.“

ALL ABOUT CRIS

Cris became a certified yoga instructor back in 2018, and opened her own pod in Taunton, Somerset, soon after.

Horwood House Hotel

Nestled in the rural tranquility of the Buckinghamshire countryside and built in 1911, the stunning Grade II listed Horwood House has over a century’s worth of memories and stories to tell. Fresh from a £6 million restoration, the property offers sumptuous interiors, expansive manicured gardens and lily pond, a tree-lined approach and beautiful historical features to offer a venue with the wow-factor.

The historic Manor is brimming with grand features including high ceilings, impressive stone fireplaces, chandeliers, and beautiful lead light

windows. Or, for a picturesque al fresco ceremony, a white arbor is situated within the historical gardens, offering a truly romantic oasis.

The ‘Blossom Package’ includes everything you’ll need on your big day, with the option to add your own ideas for a truly personal experience or why not add some extra special touches with the ‘Wisteria Package’, which includes a Manor Suite for the ultimate in honeymoon suite luxury! The dedicated weddings team is on hand to help plan your day to perfection, from the little touches to the big decisions. The neutral and spacious settings of the Eyre and Cook

Suites can be decorated to any chosen style, seating up to 190 guests for a wedding breakfast.

After dancing the night away, your guests can enjoy a wonderful night’s stay in one of the hotels stunning bedrooms or suites. The next morning, reflect on the day of celebrations with a hearty breakfast followed by a trip to the boutique H Spa. Also ideal for some pre big day pampering!

Wedding packages from MaySeptember 2023 start from £155 per person, and during January, February, March and November from only £120 per person. www.horwoodhouse.co.uk

Propress MINI The Handheld Steamer used, recommended, and stocked by Bridal Boutiques

Propress MINI The Handheld Steamer used, recommended, and stocked by Bridal Boutiques

Propress MINI used, recommended, and stocked by Bridal Boutiques

The simple way to ensure your wedding dress looks as flawless on your wedding day as it did when you fell in love with it in the shop. Then pop in your suitcase and take on your honeymoon.

Tel: 020 8417 0660 | Email: hello@propress.co.uk propress.co.uk

The simple way to ensure your wedding dress looks as flawless on your wedding day as it did when you fell in love with it in the shop. Then pop in your suitcase and take on your honeymoon. Always looking great - the Propress way.

The simple way to ensure your wedding dress looks as flawless on your wedding day as it did when you fell in love with it in the shop. Then pop in your suitcase and take on your honeymoon. Always looking great - the Propress way.

Tel: 020 8417 0660 | Email: hello@propress.co.uk propress.co.uk

Tel: 020 8417 0660 | Email: hello@propress.co.uk propress.co.uk