BOLD & BEAUTIFUL, P41
Add a pop of colour to your reception
PRETTY PATTERNS, P32 Mix and match your maids with Dessy
CRAIG Y NOS, P72
GLAMOUR V UNDERSTATED, P10
Which will you choose?
FESTIVE FEASTS, 36 Winter warmers from Slimming World
www.casablancabridal.com
The New Year is in full swing, and despite the cold, wet weather, nothing is dampening our spirits as a fresh year of wedding planning commences. We will be with you every step of the way, and this issue is a great place to start for inspiration!
This issue we’ve got some lovely music and reading ideas for your ceremony (page 68), four incredible real wedding stories filled with loads of ideas to steal for your big day (page 44), and a really cool bold and beautiful theme to inspire you with loads of bargains (page 40).
My favourite feature this issue has to be the Dessy bridesmaid feature (page 32). I am OBSESSED with the new pattern trend, especially when mix and matched. Whether you go for bold prints of pretty pastels, I just think it looks amazing in your photos. Need any help with your big-day planning? Drop us a line and we will help at jade@meanttobemedia.com. Happy reading!
My favourite picks this month!
1. This Sevilla gown from Blue by Enzoani is just stunning! A classic gown that will never be out of fashion. 2. Dessy have wowed with their latest collections, mixing and matching patterns for your girls. 3. This bold disco cake is a real centrepiece for your reception (and delicious, too!). 4. This baby blue set from Boux Avenue is the perfect way to cover your ‘something blue’ on the big day. 5. I love these bright pink shoes from River Island to add a pop of colour.
www.martinthornburg.com
www.casablancabridal.com
www.leinstudio.com
www.enzoani.com
www.enzoani.com
www.dandolondon.com
FLORIANNE
THE ASYMMETRICAL FOLDS
ALONG THE BODICE OF THIS GOWN CREATE THE MOST GORGEOUS, FLATTERING SILHOUETTE
FARRAH CONTEMPORARY BRIDES WILL LOVE THE SUBTLY SEXY EDGE TO THIS FIT AND FLARE DRESS
FIROUZE AN ELEGANT CHOICE FOR ANY BRIDE CHOOSING TO WED IN THE SPRING/SUMMER MONTHS
FRANZ WE CAN’T GET OVER THE DELICATE EMBELLISHMENTS ADORNING THIS DRESS. JUST LOOK AT THAT TRAIN!
FILIPPA
WOW YOUR GUESTS BY ROCKING UP THE AISLE IN A PRETTY PINK SHADE FIA THIS DRESS MAKE US INSTANTLY THINK OF BEACHY WEDDINGS OVERSEAS. JUST BEAUTIFUL!
Back in the day, bridesmaid dresses were generally satin, unflattering shapes in block colours. Thankfully, nowadays there are a lot more options for your best girls, and they come in an array of styles, colours, fabrics and lengths. But our favourite trend has to be mix and matching your
bridesmaids, with them wearing different styles in the same colour, or different colours in matching styles. But the latest trend is to mix and match with patterns, and the masters of this are Dessy. Just take a look at the incredible options they offer in their latest collection. See them all now at www.dessy.com.
y
Ready in 1 hour 10 minutes
INGREDIENTS
SERVES 4
1kg floury potatoes, cut into chunks
Low-calorie cooking spray
4 skinless and boneless chicken breasts
4 x 20g mini Yorkshire puddings
4 level tsp gravy granules
Boiled or steamed veg, to serve
For the stuffing balls:
1 tbsp chopped fresh sage or parsley
1 small egg, beaten
Grated zest of ½ unwaxed lemon
100g lean pork mince (5% fat or less)
20g stale wholemeal bread, whizzed into crumbs in your food processor
METHOD
Heat up your oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6. Parboil the potatoes in a saucepan of boiling water for 10 minutes.
While the potatoes are cooking, make the stuffing balls. Put the herbs, egg, lemon zest, pork and breadcrumbs in a bowl, season lightly and mix to combine. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each one into a ball. Put them in a non-stick roasting tin and spray with low-calorie cooking spray. Drain the potatoes and return to the pan, shaking it to roughen up the edges. Tip them into another non-stick roasting tin, spray with low-calorie cooking spray and toss well. Roast on the top shelf of
the oven for 35-40 minutes or until done to your liking.
Once the potatoes are in the oven, put the tin with the stuffing balls on the shelf below them and cook for 10 minutes.
Season the chicken breasts and spray with low-calorie cooking spray, then sit them alongside the stuffing balls in the tin and roast for another 20 minutes.
When the 20 minutes is up, add the Yorkshire puddings to the oven and cook everything for another 5-7 minutes, or until it’s all cooked through. While that’s happening, boil or steam some veg. Make up the gravy granules according to the pack instructions. Slice the chicken breasts and divide everything between 4 plates to serve.
All recipes are taken from Slimming World’s collection. Join your local Slimming World group or sign up online for even more recipes, guidance and support. To find your nearest group, visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk or call 0344 897 8000.
‘Slimming World’ is a registered trademark of Miles-Bramwell Executive Services, trading as Slimming World.
Images: Slimming World/Lara Holmes, Gareth Morgans
Ready in 4 hours 15 minutes SERVES 4
INGREDIENTS
500g lean beef mince (5% fat or less)
2 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp ground coriander
4 level tbsp plain flour
3 celery sticks, sliced
1 large leek, sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 large red peppers, deseeded and cut into large chunks
1 red chilli, thinly sliced (and deseeded for a milder chilli)
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
400g can chopped tomatoes
350ml boiling beef stock
2 tbsp Bovril paste
400g can black beans, drained and rinsed
Fresh coriander sprigs, to serve
Boiled wholegrain rice, to serve
Boiled or steamed vegetables, to serve
METHOD
Put the beef in your slow cooker, season lightly and toss with the spices and flour. Add the celery, leek, onion, red peppers, chilli and garlic and toss well, breaking up the beef.
Tip in the chopped tomatoes, stock, Bovril and black beans and stir well. Cover, set the slow cooker to high and cook for 4 hours.
Ladle into wide bowls and scatter over the coriander sprigs. Serve with the rice and veg of your choice.
Don’t have an air fryer?
Put all the ingredients in a large non-stick saucepan or casserole pan and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 1 hour 15 minutes, stirring occasionally and topping up with extra stock if needed.
Ready in 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS
250g dried medium egg noodles
Low-calorie cooking spray
1 red onion, finely sliced
3 peppers (mixed colours), deseeded and finely sliced
1 bunch of spring onions, whites separated, greens finely sliced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
5cm-piece fresh root ginger, peeled and finely grated
4 tbsp reduced-salt soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
4 skinless and boneless salmon fillets, chopped into bite-size pieces
Cook the noodles following the pack instructions. Drain and rinse under warm then cold water to wash off the starch. Set aside.
While the noodles are cooking, spray a large wok or frying pan with the low-calorie cooking spray and put over a medium-high heat. Fry the onion, peppers and spring onion whites for 4-5 minutes until softening and a little coloured.
Add the garlic and ginger, and fry for 2 minutes. Add the soy sauce, vinegar and salmon. Fry everything for 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through, being careful not to break up the salmon too much.
Add the noodles and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they’re piping hot. Scatter with the spring onion greens and serve.
www.oliverbonas.com
Multicolour candles, £8
www.annabeljames.co.uk Pink candlestick, £13.95
www.swarovski.com Emerald earrings, £49
www.punkcake.rocks Bright disco ball cake, £480
www.talkingtables.co.uk
www.nailsinc.com
www.riverisland.com
www.next.co.uk
www.sarahsflowers.co.uk
www.gingerray.co.uk
www.talkingtables.co.uk
Coloured stripe glasses, £40
www.gingerray.co.uk
£32.99
www.gingerray.co.uk Paper flowers, £8.99
www.gingerray.co.uk
www.karenmillen.com
embellished dress, £499
This stunning Somerset wedding ticks all our boxes! Bride Megan tells all...
How did he propose?
After 9 years together, we booked a trip to New York. This had been cancelled in 2021, due to Covid. We made it there in April 2022 and I well and truly had no idea! With hindsight, all the signs were there. He even pulled over on the hard shoulder on the way to Heathrow to ‘check the passports’. He’d booked a surprise viewing gallery at the newly-opened Summit building at sunset and after finding a beautifully quiet window box to watch the sunset in, he got down on one knee! It was absolutely perfect. I couldn’t stop nervous laughing and smiling!
What dress did you wear and where did you buy it?
I originally went to Find A Dress, Chippenham, as they stocked an Eva Lendel dress I’d seen online. Although it was stunning, I knew it wasn’t quite ‘the one’. With the amazing Nicola’s help, in the end I customised and chose parts of two of her designs to create my own unique combination. I fell in love with the structure of the Robin dress, but still loved the drama of the Jess overskirt, and when I tried these two separates together, it was perfection. I paired with a cathedral-length pearl veil and loved how classic it was with a modern feel.
And the accessories?
The veil I bought from the bridal shop where I bought my dress. For jewellery I bought some pearl drop earrings from Liberty in Love; a pearl and crystal headband from an Etsy boutique, and my lovely bridesmaids bought me a pearl necklace from Lace and Favour. I hadn’t planned on wearing a bracelet but my husband surprised me on my wedding morning with a beautiful tennis bracelet from Carat London, and I was spoilt further by the bridesmaids with a personalised wedding date bangle from Abbot Lyon. It all came together perfectly!
What did the groom wear?
He knew he wanted to go for black tie so he went classic with a 3-piece black tuxedo suit from Hugo Boss. He also wore a Hugo boss shirt and a crochet detail bow tie. He paired with a silver pocket watch and patent shoes from an independent suit shop (where we bought the groomsmen suits). He looked so smart!
How did you feel when you saw him up the aisle?
I was very relaxed all morning, but when it was time to walk down the aisle, I suddenly felt super nervous! As soon as I saw his face, all the nerves went and I was just so overwhelmingly happy and excited. I
couldn’t believe it was finally our time. I felt so lucky to be marrying him! It really is the best feeling when you finally stand hand in hand, knowing all the planning has paid off and you get to enjoy your special day together.
Who were your bridesmaids and where were their dresses from?
I was very lucky to have the best team around me! I had my maid of honour, Jordan, and 4 bridesmaids: Hollie, Gemma, Katy and Shannon. They were absolutely incredible and did all they could to look after me, from start to finish! The girls all looked beautiful. They wore the olive green Pretty Lavish satin dresses in a mix of two styles (Keisha and Amelia). I let them choose which they felt most comfortable in and they all had matching earrings, bags and shoes from Boohoo.
What was your wedding theme and how did you create it?
I absolutely love the ‘Modern Classic’ wedding theme. We loved the idea of monochrome details with touches of green and white to tie in myself and the bridesmaids from the get go. The boys were all in black tie and the girls dressed timelessly so I made sure (with the help of my amazing stylist and florist) that the florals were white roses and green eucalyptus to complement this and the table details were black and silver also. Our floral arch tied this all together. We added personal touches with our wedding logo on to all of
Date: 1st August 2024
Venue: Quantock Lakes, Somerset
Photographer: Kelly Weech, www.kellyweechphotography.com
our signage (which matched our invites) and added this to our glass toppers, too. It really is magical seeing it all come together on the day!
What was the highlight of your day?
There are too many to pick! A stand out moment for me was the singing waiters. At this point in the day, speeches were over and I no longer felt nervous. I was on cloud nine! The energy in the room was absolutely electric and my cheeks ached from smiling as we looked at our favourite people dancing and singing at the top of their lungs. We finished with the whole room linked arm in arm singing New York by Frank Sinatra as a special touch to tie in our engagement.
What was your best buy?
My shoes were perfect with the dress but were already hurting by dinner time. I knew I still had plenty of dancing to go and I didn’t want to be suffering in the slightest, so I bought a second pair of ‘dancing shoes’. At 5pm I was ready to slip on my comfy block heel. I’m so glad I bought a back up as I didn’t think about my feet after this!
vibe in the Cotswolds.
How did he propose?
Brad proposed in the Cotswolds in 2020. He was planning to propose in Italy before the pandemic happened. We reserved a puppy at the start of 2020, he was born in April and was ready to come home with us in May. So we discussed about having a long weekend in Italy together before he arrived, a “puppymoon” if you will. This is when Brad planned to propose. He spoke to our friends and family and our nearest and dearest were going to fly out and surprise us for a big family meal. Of course, the pandemic hit and that didn’t happen. On my birthday in August that year, we planned a trip to the Cotswolds, with our new puppy; Finn. Brad proposed over a picnic, on a gloriously sunny day in the Italian garden at the Manor Hotel in Castle Combe, with our little Finn in tow. Our friends and family joined us at the end of the week to celebrate. It was perfect.
What dress did you wear and where did you buy it?
I wore a dress called Rosewood by Suzanne Neville. I always really struggled with the idea of picking a dress. I thought I would be a nightmare and not deem anything good enough. I always wanted something very simple. I wanted to wear a dress and not the dress wear me. I tried on a few different dresses at other shops before going to
Suzanne Neville and started to convince myself that maybe simple wasn’t the way to go as nothing I tried felt special enough. And then I tried on Rosewood and it was just everything I wanted, even though I wasn’t exactly sure what that was. Whilst the dress offered the simplicity I was after, the design and structure of the dress was anything but. The detail and fit was perfect.
What did the groom wear?
He wore a black tux from Moss Bros. He always wanted to get married in a black tux, so the colour scheme and style was never a question.
How did you feel when you saw him up the aisle?
When I walked down the aisle I saw all my guests’ faces. I looked at each and every one of them, smiling in a way that said “hi”. I took in the live music, the smell, the flower wheel hanging above us. I was very present in the moment, and seeing it all come to life. But I was also very overwhelmed by how it looked, the fact everyone was there. And then when I saw Brad it was comfort, it was safety, is was kind of funny in ways, like, “Check us out, this is our wedding!” He looked very handsome and very emotional.
Who were your bridesmaids and where were their dresses from?
My bridesmaids were my sister and best friends. I picked black satin gowns to tie in with Brad and the groomsmen’s black tux. I wanted each of my bridesmaids to feel super comfortable and themselves so I set a budget (material and colour) and asked them to find their own dresses. I said, “Buy the dress that you would want to wear if you were going to a black tie event.” And that’s what they did. And then we had a fun night in, I cooked dinner, we had wine and they all tried on their dresses. Very stress-free for me and my bridesmaids were happy because they all got to wear styles that suited them. The same rule applied for shoes/ accessories/hair. I had no desire for them to look the same.
What was your wedding theme and how did you create it?
I always liked the idea of getting married in Italy, and Brad was originally going to propose in Italy. The reason we didn’t do it was because it was more important for us to have all of our loved ones with us than limiting numbers, excluding people that didn’t like flying, etc. But we wanted to create that romantic, rustic “Tuscan” vibe. We narrowed our search to the Cotswolds because that was where we got engaged and we liked the idea of going back there and it still being a destination wedding. We found Cripps Barn online and it gave us all the feels through the screen.
Date 31st May 2024
Photographer @kellyweechphotography
Videographer @kylefortefilms
Venue @crippsbarn @crippsandco
Makeup @byhanloumad
Stationary @trixcreative
Dress @suzanneneville
Hair @charliebabbhair
Band @allthingsniceentertainment
Flowers @go_wild_flowers
Special appearances @ramsaylookalike
When we visited the venue, we knew instantly that it was the one. We wanted to create the party and wedding we would like to attend. So, planned our day as if we were guests and not the bride and groom. We walked through each part of the day thinking about what a guest who isn’t in the wedding party would be doing. What would they be drinking, eating, listening to, watching, etc. A big part of our budget went on guest entertainment - live music ALL DAY, plus a surprise appearance from a Gordon Ramsey lookalike handing out canapes and serving dinner, and a pop up
Aperol Spritz bar in the evening.
What was the highlight of your day?
This is really hard and I have a few. But one moment that stands out is one that took me by surprise and that was our entrance to dinner as Mr and Mrs. We picked the song we wanted to walk into very early on, almost instantly. It was Good Night by John Legend. It was one moment that we didn’t think too much about because we didn’t have to, we knew what we wanted, there wasn’t much time spent talking about it, we made the decision and moved on to other things. When that moment arrived on the day I remember being so taken aback with emotion by the energy and electricity in the room and seeing this vision come to life, that it took my breath away, quite literally, and I will never forget the feeling of seeing all of our loved ones looking at us, up singing, dancing, clapping and waving their napkins in the air. It was a moment I will truly never forget.
What was your best buy?
The best money we spent was on booking live musicians
All Things Nice who performed all day from the drinks reception, through dinner, into the cocktail hour and evening. Also Amici String Quartet who welcomed our guests and played throughout the ceremony. They created the atmosphere and energy we wanted to capture throughout our day.
How did he propose?
On the 10th June 2022 on a cliff edge in Portugal. As he got down on one knee he said ‘whilst we are here, will you marry me?’ with a beautiful sunset in front of us. We went for a beach walk, which came with the most amazing surprise, followed by a seafood dinner by the sea.
What dress did you wear and where did you buy it?
Viva Bride, Maddox in Ivory. I chose to alter this dress by adding draped sleeves that matched my veil and cut out two layers of netting to match the silhouette I wanted to create.
And the accessories?
A veil to match my draped sleeves and a necklace from my grandad who sadly passed a couple of years ago.
The three stone sapphire necklace was also my something old, new, borrowed
and blue as it was given to me by my nan for the day.
What did the groom wear?
A three-piece grey suit and a sage green tie to match our lovely bridesmaids. He matched the groomsmen with their waistcoat, trousers and brown shoes.
How did you feel when you saw him up the aisle?
I felt so emotional. I couldn’t believe it was my day to marry the most amazing person I have ever met in my whole life.
Who were your bridesmaids and where were their dresses from?
Zoe Tough, Kerry Thorne, Cynthia Foden, Kate Branfield and Eva Collom. Their dresses were from Oasis, two different styles in satin sage green. One halterneck and one shoulder.
What was your wedding theme and how did you create it?
Elegant farmhouse. I wanted to take the venue surroundings and bring them through to the interiors with a mix of greens and hints of peach for summertime. It was important for me to show off the space and detail it with floral garlands and hessian to keep that touch of farmhouse on the tables. With there being an open garden space out the back of the venue, I wanted to pull that through into the barn itself with flowers down the aisle as though you were walking through a meadow. I loved the combination of flowers and wood to make it really natural. I also wanted to really put our own personal stamp on the details our guests would see throughout the day. We had R&D drink tags for everyone’s welcome drinks and personalised napkins for the little details. My sister-in-law did a lot of personalising for us; our welcome sign, table numbers, glasses and bridesmaid hangers. I used Pinterest and Instagram for a lot of inspiration, and it all came together beautifully on the day.
What was the highlight of your day?
The ceremony and the speeches. The feeling of walking down the aisle to marry your best friend was a moment I’ll cherish forever. My Mum, Sister, Mother-in-law, Husband and Husband’s best friend had the most beautiful words to say about us and our life together. I have never felt so
Date 31st August 2024
Photographer Bronwyn Ayre Photography
Videographer Frames Productions
Venue The White Barn, South Petherton
loved and appreciated in my life, so I will hold on to all of their words forever.
What was your best buy?
I’m really pleased with some small charms for my wedding bouquet made with images of my grandad and aunty who both have sadly passed. They were still there with us. I loved our ‘The Forsyth’s’ Neon sign we asked for as a gift from my sister. This made our backdrop for all guest photos. It’s something we can now keep with us and put up in our home as a constant reminder of the day. I was really pleased with the hair and make up team I had with me on the day and couldn’t have asked for a better experience. My beautiful hairdressers, Kerry Thorne from KGHD, Cassie Rhodes from Enza’s and Make Up Artist Megan Bonita. We all looked so beautiful on the day down to their hard work.
Buy all of the little details over time so you don’t feel overwhelmed. Don’t be afraid to challenge prices when you are first presented with them. Also, the POV app for disposable pictures was a great choice. It was so fun to look through everyone’s photos the next day! Finally, ask for help from friends and family who can help with making your vision a reality.
This couple said ‘I do’ in beautiful Stockholm. Bride Tara tells her story...
How did he propose?
Marcus surprised me during a holiday in Mallorca with a picnic atop a cliff overlooking the ocean. We were by a beautiful white lighthouse, and the moment was simply perfect – intimate, breathtaking, and unforgettable.
What dress did you wear and where did you buy it?
I wore a stunning wedding dress, veil, and tiara, all from Milagro in Stockholm, Sweden.
And the accessories?
For the wedding ceremony, I wore a diamond set gifted by my mother, which perfectly complemented the shape of my dress. For the evening’s fire-themed party, I switched to bold jewellery by Swedish designer Caroline Svedbom to match the mood.
What did the groom wear?
Marcus wore a tailored suit from Rose and Born, and I must say, he looked absolutely dashing!
How did you feel when you saw him up the aisle?
It was the only moment of the day where I felt nervous, but also completely at peace. Time seemed to stop, and although we were surrounded by 100 guests, it felt like it was just the two of us, the birds, and the forest.
Who were your bridesmaids and where were their dresses from?
My bridesmaids were my three closest friends: Deziree Bergström, Frida Emilsson, and Vanessa Åkerman. They wore custommade dresses in a beautiful moss green to reflect our Four Elements theme.
What was your theme and how did you create it?
Our theme was the Four Elements: Earth, Wind, Water, and Fire. It evolved naturally once we decided to host our wedding in nature. The theme represented us and the life we want to build – deeply connected to each other and to nature. We wove the elements into every detail of the day, from our two ceremonies to the decor and even the after-party. Having a theme created a magical energy that made both the planning and the celebration unforgettable for us and our guests.
What was the highlight of your day?
Our wedding dinner was extraordinary. The room overflowed with love as we listened to heartfelt speeches from our friends, celebrating our relationship and the journey we’ve been on. I laughed and cried for hours – it was an emotional rollercoaster in the best way. Another highlight was making our own wedding cake. It was playful, unexpected, and one of the most fun things I’ve done in years!
What was your best buy?
My bright red after-party dress by Violante Nessi was a showstopper – it brought the fire to our Fire Party! Also, the perfumes from Sniph we gifted to all our guests were an incredible touch. The wedding smelled amazing, and the memory is forever ingrained in our senses.
Date 21st September 2024
Venue Stockholm Archipelago
Photographer Jolanta Birkhane
@jolantabirkhanestudio
We might not be the best to ask since we went over budget – but it was worth every penny! If anything, our tip is to prioritise what truly matters to you and let go of anything that doesn’t add meaning to your day.
When the one whose hand you’re holding Is the one who holds your heart. When the one whose eyes you gaze into Gives your hopes and dreams their start, When the one you think of first and last Is the one who holds you tight, And the things you plan together Make the whole world seem just right, When the one whom you believe in puts their faith and trust in you, You’ve found the one and only love You’ll share your whole life through.
Ensure there’s not a dry eye in the house with these brilliant reading ideas and wedding music options...
By Anne Bradstreet
If ever two were one, then surely we.
If ever man were lov’d by wife, then thee.
If ever wife was happy in a man, Compare with me, ye women, if you can.
I prize thy love more than whole Mines of gold
Or all the riches that the East doth hold.
My love is such that Rivers cannot quench, Nor ought but love from thee give recompense.
Thy love is such I can no way repay.
The heavens reward thee manifold, I pray.
Then while we live, in love let’s so persevere
That when we live no more, we may live ever.
Bridal Chorus
R. Wagner
Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, 18th Variation
S. Rachmaninoff
Butterfly Waltz
Brian Crain
Air
George F. Handel
Salut d’amour
Edward Elgar
Canon in D Major for strings
Johann Pachelbel
Spring (from The Four Seasons)
Antonio Vivaldi
The Prince of Denmark’s March
Jeremiah Clarke
Wedding March (from The Marriage of Figaro)
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
All You Need Is Love
The Beatles
Here Comes The Sun
The Beatles
Marry Me Train
Hoppipolla
Sigur Ros
No Surprises
Radiohead
At Last
Etta James
I’m Yours (Jason Mraz)
Vitamin String Quartet
by Catherine Smith
The band has been booked, the cake has been made, the photographer’s chosen, all bills have been paid. The guests are decided, the menu too; Something borrowed? Check! Ditto old and blue.
The stationery’s been ordered, along with the flowers, favours are done after fiddling for hours. The stag do’s a blur, same goes for the Henwon’t be drinking that much in one sitting again!
The dress has been picked, accessories bought; there’s nothing to schedule, no more to sort.
After endless to-do lists for over a year, it’s time to relax; the big day is here!
Sitting here with my girls as our hair gets done, I can’t help feeling lucky to have found ‘the One’Just think, by lunchtime I’ll be his new wife! Roll on the wedding, and our new married life!
Use Somebody (Kings of Leon)
Vitamin String Quartet
A Thousand Years
The Piano Guys
The focus on your wedding ceremony is very important, as the words and rings you exchange will bind you both as a couple forever. Here are 5 ways to make your ceremony extra special.
Decorate the aisle
Amazed
Lonestar
As Time Goes By
Dooley Wilson
A Thousand Years
Christina Perri
At Last
Etta James
Better Together
Jack Johnson
Can’t Take My Eyes
Off of You
Frankie Valli
Come Rain or Come Shine
Ray Charles
Crazy Love
Van Morrison
Everything
Michael Bublé
First Day of My Life
Bright Eyes
Fly Me to the Moon
Frank Sinatra
Let’s Stay Together
Al Green
L-O-V-E
Nat King Cole
Lucky
Colbie Caillat and Jason Mraz
Make You Feel My Love
Adele
Our Love Is Here To Stay
Billie Holiday
Stand By Me
Ben E. King
The Luckiest
Ben Folds
Always Be Right There
Bryan Adams
Wild Horses
The Rolling Stones
You Are the Best Thing
Ray LaMontagne
Your Song
Elton John
Whether you choose to get married indoors or out, there’s certainly opportunity to decorate the aisle you walk down. If you plan on getting super creative, double check that your wedding venue allows it before you splash the cash.
Personalise your vows
There’s nothing more romantic than couples who write personal vows to one another. Check with your church or registry office what is and isn’t allowed.
Choose appropriate readings
Some couples like to stick to tradition when it comes to readings, whereas others choose readings that have a personal meaning to them both. Spend time doing research and ensure you choose the right people to perform them.
Pick the perfect exit song
You’ll remember the song you exit the aisle to forever, so choose something romantic, personal and memorable to you both. You could even have your DJ play it during your evening reception as a reminder of your nuptials earlier in the day.
Choose a great photographer
Once your wedding is over you’ll want to look back and remember as much of the day as you can; a great wedding photographer can help you achieve this. Ensure your photographer captures the most memorable parts of your wedding ceremony, including your bridal entrance, your vows and your first kiss as a married couple, of course!
Recently engaged and living in South Wales? You have to check out this award-winning wedding venue...
Calling all brides in Wales! Dreaming of a castle wedding? Meet Craig Y Nos Castle – South Wales’ most romantic wedding venue.
Every girl dreams of a fairytale wedding at a castle, and now you can make your dream come true at this new wedding venue at the heart of the Brecon Beacon mountains. Starting in the 1840s, a gothic castle was built as a home for the world-renowned opera singer
Adelina Patti, featuring a private theatre where she once performed for guests from across the globe. Fast forward to today, the Craig Y Nos team has lovingly restored the castle, transforming this historic treasure into Wales’ most romantic wedding venue.
At Craig Y Nos you get exclusive use of the stunning castle, including its incredible Grade I listed theatre for your ceremony. The castle boasts breathtaking countryside views, luxury onsite accommodation, an
amazing in-house catering team and a wedding planner rated number one in the country.
Here are just a couple of comments from couples who have said “I do” here:
“Stunning venue for a fairytale wedding. The castle was an absolutely beautiful place to get married. The outside part of the grounds was also so, so beautiful.”
“The team were extremely helpful with organising and took a huge burden off in terms of making sure nothing was forgotten. It couldn’t have been a more perfect day and we are so grateful. Thank you!”
Are you ready to start planning your romantic castle wedding? Complete the experience with Craig Y Nos Castle’s discounted all-inclusive wedding packages for a seamless planning journey and the wedding of your dreams at www.craigynoscastle.com.
The ultimate romantic escape for proposals and minimoons in the heart of
Nestled in the heart of London’s vibrant East End, Hyatt Place
London City East is a modern oasis that offers an unforgettable setting for couples seeking romance. Whether you’re planning a breathtaking wedding proposal, a romantic mini break, or
an intimate mini-moon, this hotel provides the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories.
The crown jewel of Hyatt Place
London City East is its stunning PocketSquare Sky Bar & Terrace. This rooftop haven offers panoramic
views of London’s iconic skyline, including the Gherkin, the Shard, and Canary Wharf. As the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle, it becomes an enchanting spot to pop the question. Imagine toasting your engagement with bespoke cocktails while taking in the sweeping vistas –it’s an experience that will leave your
partner speechless.
For couples seeking a romantic getaway, Hyatt Place excels in creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.
The hotel’s thoughtfully designed rooms feature plush bedding, floorto-ceiling windows, and stylish decor that blends contemporary luxury with comfort. Select rooms even boast private terraces, perfect for a quiet breakfast or evening drink together.
The hotel’s culinary offerings cater perfectly to couples. The Zoom Restaurant serves delectable European dishes with a modern twist, while the Bar at Zoom offers craft cocktails in a chic, relaxed setting. And for those wanting to unwind,
the hotel’s peaceful ambiance and impeccable service ensure every moment feels indulgent.
The hotel’s location in Whitechapel is ideal for exploring the cultural and historical treasures of East London. Just a short stroll away is the bustling Brick Lane, known for its vibrant street art, eclectic boutiques, and famous curry houses. For couples who love history, the Tower of London and St. Katharine Docks are within easy reach, offering a mix of intrigue and charm.
Beyond its stunning location and rooftop magic, Hyatt Place offers curated experiences designed for
romance. Whether it’s a private dinner overlooking the city, personalised welcome treats, or concierge support to plan a surprise outing, the hotel goes above and beyond to make couples feel special.
Hyatt Place London City East is more than a stay; it’s a romantic experience that captures the spirit of London. Perfect for proposals, mini-moons, or just rekindling the spark, this stylish retreat ensures every moment is unforgettable.
Pop in to look at this incredible venue today at 45 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1DU and to book, simply call 020 8159 1234 or visit their website at www.hyatt.com.
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