2009 009bbrides des Autumn
Your guide to making your wedding an extra special day to remember
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Autumn Brides
Prepare for wedding bliss I
T’S one of the most memorable days of your life, so understandably you want everything to be perfect.
Whether you’re planning ahead or you’re getting married in the next few months, there’s plenty to think about, so we’ve compiled a selection of advice and information to ensure your day goes like a dream. From gorgeous flowing gowns to tiaras, shoes, hair styles and jewellery, there’s plenty to organise – and that’s just for the bride. There’s also bridesmaids’ dresses to consider; do you want them long, knee-length, simple or elaborate? Then there’s the groom, best man and usher’s suits to think about. Many people opt to have a little colour within the waistcoat and tie, to blend in with the colour scheme of the wedding shades. But check with your man first; he may not want a pink waistcoat, so see what suits him best and decide together. Don’t forget about the extras either, from wedding cars, cakes, the photographer, table decoration, flowers, catering and of course one of the main choices, the venue. There’s a lot to think about and get organised, but don’t get too stressed – remember it’s your big day, so do things
how you want. If you want something small with close friends and family, then you could spend more money on the honeymoon or even the quality of the wedding breakfast. If you fancy a big family celebration, then many people choose marquees. These can usually accommodate your guest list, and generally include a dance floor area plus tables for your wedding breakfast. Choosing the right photographer is a big decision, and you need to find a balance between the cost and quality of the images. You also need to make sure you can relax with the photographer so they can get the best shots of your day.
● Get planning now, put your best foot forward and you’ll have a day to remember forever
theprintstore uk www.eliteinvite.com
Thinking about your wedding cake, these days many people are choosing at least one sponge layer, although it’s completely up to you. Individual cup cakes are also popular, and can create a more fun and individual style. When choosing your wedding venue, don’t just consider the way it looks, also remember to check out its catering conditions and menu choices. Many places insist on you having a wedding breakfast, so before you go booking that stunning hall with picture perfect gardens, just check all the small print. Plan your wedding day down to the last detail and it’s sure to go without a hitch.
formerly sprinterprinter
the Invitation Specialists
73 Crosby Road North, Waterloo, Liverpool L22 4QD 0151 949 1042
With over 20 years of experience in design and print we offer a complete design service for all your needs to ensure your special day is a truly memorable one. We know your invitations help set the scene for the entire occasion, that’s why we constantly strive to make our invitations as unique as you are. We offer the widest choice of bespoke stationery from save the date cards, daytime and evening invitations, menus, reply cards, direction cards, table plans, order of service, serviettes & coasters, and more!
● This stunning dress by Benjamin Roberts, left, features a lace overlay and a fishtail shape to help create the illusion of curves. Right, this beautiful Waverley dress by Augusta Jones features a detachable black velvet sash and organza corsage
Dress to impress on your big day A
S little girls we’ve all indulged in a daydream or two about our perfect wedding dress, so it’s no surprise that when it comes to finding ‘the one’ brides-to-be are notoriously uncompromising.
The good news is that the 2009/10 bridal trends cater for all types of bride – the return of the big, romantic dress in lavish fabrics will delight those dreaming of a fairytale wedding; while brides looking for a slinkier style will love the latest figure-hugging gowns. Other key bridal trends this year include full, ruffled skirts, sure to make you look and feel every bit like a princess; one-shoulder dresses; beaded bodices; fishtail dresses which are great for accentuating curves; ruching; embellishment and short dresses, fabulous for petite brides or summer weddings. Timeless, elegant and with more than a little influence from Grecian styling, pleating is another of this year’s biggest trends. While those
● This ornate Kelly dress by Augusta Jones has a oneshoulder strap and flowers made from heavy organza preferring a more traditional style will love this year’s range of demure yet chic dresses, which feature simple detailing for an understated look.
Strapless gowns also continue to dominate many bridal houses’ 2009/10 collections, having been one of the most popular bridal styles of recent years. The latest collections also provide plenty of choice for brides who want to cover their shoulders, with ballerinaesque sheer wraps, feather shrugs and lace boleros great for those keen to cover up during a church ceremony. Equally, those having a winter wedding can accessorise with a beautiful tailored jacket, a faux-fur shrug or a ruffled jacket. When it comes to colour, brides can choose between classic whites, ivories, champagnes and creams. Alternatively, to give a contemporary twist to a traditional dress, why not incorporate a subtle flash of colour with a sash or a vintage-inspired brooch? With such a diverse array of trends to choose from, the latest bridal wear collections ensure every woman can find the dress of her dreams.
WEDDING SUIT HIRE Southport’s Suit Hire Specialist
Digital Print offers Our hand-finished full colour flexibility Metallic Foil Print for small quantities give a touch of class
Hand Crafted takes care of the smallest of details
Nationwide Measuring Service Open Late Night Thursdays Tie Making Service Wide Choice of Suits & Waistcoats Dinner Suit & Kilt Hire
OPEN DAY NEXT SATURDAY
The Grooms Room Mon 10-12 Wed 10-4 Thurs 5-8 Fri 10-4 Sat 10-4
Embossing gives a truly delicate elegance of its own
Ribbon enables you to colour match fabrics for a theme
Shapes offer a clear difference for style and flair
01704 553951
The Mews 15a off Liverpool Rd, Birkdale, Southport PR8 4AS FREE CUSTOMER CAR PARK VIA ALMA ROAD
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Autumn Brides
● Bridesmaids can look stunning, too
Pictures courtesy of, l-r: Mori Lee, Alfred Angelo, Kelsey Rose and Eternity Brides
Adding a splash of colour W
HILE the bride naturally takes centre stage on her big day, bridesmaids are still in the spotlight, contributing to the style and theme of the whole wedding. The bridesmaid’s dress should complement the bridal gown while adding a splash of colour, and this season we can look forward to really warm and rich autumnal shades of burnt orange, chocolate brown, emerald green, deep damson, navy blue and warm claret. Another surprising shade for 2009 has been grey, which looks great teamed with brighter shades of pink and yellow. And hot colours this season are silver and royal purple, with black reigning supreme.
In terms of style, bridesmaid’s fashion is mirroring the trends from the fashion runways with the vintage look. Shorter length skirts are back in vogue and monotone is a key look. With the current financial climate, bridesmaids are looking for outfits they can wear again and choosing dresses which can also be worn for the Christmas party or for special occasions. Brides wishing to save their pennies are trawling charity and second hand shops for bridesmaids’ gowns and teaming them with family heirlooms. As no two bridesmaids are the same, there are styles to suit all body shapes – from sleeveless, off the shoulder slip dresses to two-pieces with
jackets – ensuring they flatter all shapes and sizes. The tea-length dress features prominently in many couture collections, as well as strapless A-line and sheath dresses. But there are plenty of stylish sleeved options for those who don’t wish to bare their arms. Mix and match tops and skirts are rising in popularity, which allow the bride to have their attendants wear styles in the same fabrics and colours which are flattering to each person. Satin is still a firm favourite, as it shows off this season’s vibrant hues beautifully. And moving into spring 2010, strong shades of coffee, coral and lavender will be popular, with more girlie shades of pink and yellow for a more feminine feel.
Southport Bridal Gallery Couture Boutique 01704 512500
Liverpool Bridal Gallery is hosting a number of Designer Days, please call 0151 729 0800 to reserve your appointment: Hollywood Dreams - 7th November 2009
Chester Bridal Gallery 01244 340707
Lancashire Bridal Gallery 01772 814501
Maggie Sottero - 12th December 2009 Jenny Packham - 6th February 2010
Preston Bridal Gallery 01772 885712
Liverpool Bridal Gallery 0151 729 0800
Winner of the Best New Bridal Retailer 2009 www.thebridalgallerygroup.com
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Autumn Brides
Groomed to stylish perfection G
ROOMS, you’ve probably heard your fianceé telling you that she’s been planning her wedding since she was a wee girl, that she already knows how she wants the flowers in the venue and the food at the reception and the music for your first dance; even the exact style of her dress. Come on now grooms, you’ve got to take the initiative and show your betrothed that you’ve been thinking long and hard about this wedding too, that you know exactly how you want to look come the big day. Yeah, sure, you might not actually have a clue what to wear for the wedding, but there’s no need to tell her that. There’s still time to impress and build up those all important brownie points, so get looking now at different styles of jacket, colours of waistcoat, types of shirts and trousers. Are you going to rent or buy
your outfit? What accoutrements will you need to set the ensemble off, just right? You’ll want a rather snazzy watch; some very smart shoes; ● Dress to impress with top hat and tails gleaming Picture: Debenhams cufflinks; an eyegrabbing tie or your suit order in plenty of cool ruffle; maybe even a top time, especially if you and hat, who knows? Perhaps your best man are renting. you’ve got your heart set on a That way you can be sure kilt to show off your Celtic everything will be ready in heritage? time and you shouldn’t have Now is the time to start a problem with your size or visiting local wedding stockists style selection being to get an idea of the choices unavailable due to stock you have available to you. limitations. Try as many different suits Follow this advice and and stockists you can and make you’ll not only be scoring a full and informed choice maximum points from the about your outfit. bride, but you’ll be showing Bring someone with you to just how much thought and give you a second opinion too, effort you’re putting into the and always consider whether wedding. Plus, you can be you think your bride will like sure you’ll be looking your choice. fantastic on your big day. Also, make sure you place
Mother of all fashion
● Deep reds create elegant Autumn outfits Picture: Frank Usher
AS mother of the bride, make sure you stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons. All eyes may be on the bride but, as the mother of the bride you also want to turn heads, but in a good way. There is a fine line between wanting to make your own fashion statement and completely upstaging the bride, so make sure you get it right on the big day so that mother and daughter can both enjoy the memory of the occasion forever. No matter what your taste, style or budget, there is something for everyone so shop around and take your time getting your outfit just right. Don’t be tempted to go with anything too fashionable. You are best opting for a classic look that will stand the test of time – those wedding pictures are going to be around for a long time remember! And take into account comfort as well – it is a long day and you want to be at your best to give your daughter your complete and undivided attention so make sure you aren’t worrying about how uncomfortable your shoes are! Bear in mind the time of year as well. You might be buying your outfit on a
glorious sunny day but if the wedding is in the depths of winter you will need to make sure you are warm. And likewise, if it is a summer wedding, you should plan your outfit accordingly. For an autumn or winter wedding a smart suit is a better option and again, if you go for a classic and flattering style, your look will definitely stand the test of time. Feel free to go the whole hog with accessories to really glam it up and remember that a gorgeous hat will add that all-important finishing touch to your look.
● Elegance is key
Pictures: Phase
Eight and (centre) Jane Norman
Crosby & Waterloo’s Premier Function Suite La Barbacoa is THE Wedding Venue catering for up to 150 persons in the daytime and evening receptions Our air conditioned Blundell Room has its own private bar and is fitted with a superb sound and lighting system. With 25 years of experience we can offer the discerning customer a large range of food and drink packages 47-51 Mersey View • Waterloo • Liverpool • L22 6QA
0151 924 0445 www.labarbacoa.co.uk
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Autumn Brides
Great day on the cards
● Candy-stripe cakes or mini birdcages filled with jelly beans and decorated with butterflies and ribbons make pretty favours Picture courtesy: wwwfancynancy.info & Confetti.co.uk
Get set to personalise the reception ONLY a few short years ago, just those with cash to splash opted for a wedding theme, but now it seems everyone is getting in on the act and no self-respecting reception is complete without a personal touch or two. These days, to really wow your guests, your reception has got to be a lot more than just a nice venue and a set three course meal – it has got to reflect your personalities. Some of the best ideas are the simplest so why not recreate the beauty of the great outdoors with a nature theme? Consider incorporating butterflies, leaves, fresh fruit and flowers into your table decorations, opt for wedding stationery featuring a pretty floral print and be creative with your place settings – juicy green apples, for example, with a ribbon and hand-written name card pinned to the top would make
memorable but economical place settings. Set to be one of 2009/10’s biggest trends, for an eco-chic reception opt for a seasonal wedding breakfast menu, made with locally sourced ingredients. Other ways to have an eco-chic reception include choosing an organic wedding cake; replacing traditional place cards by writing guests’ names onto large leaves or small stones in a gold pen; having stationery printed on recycled card; arriving at the church by horse and carriage; and taking a mini honeymoon in the UK to reduce your carbon emissions. If an eco-chic wedding doesn’t appeal then other key reception trends for 2009/10 include sporty, monochrome, seaside and Grecian themes.
W
EDDING stationery might not be the first thing you think about when planing your nuptials but invitations are more important than you might first think.
Not only do they gives guests their first impression of your big day, they set the tone for the overall event, so it’s crucial to get it right and choose your wedding stationery carefully. In recent years, invitations have become increasingly personalised, with more and more soon-to-be wed couples choosing bespoke designs which reflect either their individual style or wedding theme. Gone are the days when couples chose from the same templated designs year in, year out. These days, couples have plenty of stationery options, with some of the trends for 2009/10 including invitations featuring personalised monograms, classic monochrome and uniquely shaped invites created by using modern laser cutting techniques. Embellishment is also extremely popular, with couples now able to adorn their invitations with everything from ribbons to sequins, crystals, pearls and
● Keep embellishment simple for an understated yet elegant look. Allure invitations Picture: www.madewithlovedesigns.co.uk
● Designed on luxury linen board, these pretty invitations feature handmade feather butterflies delicately placed and hand tied with a pretty organza ribbon bow
● Laser cut personalised wedding stationery featuring butterflies, from £40 Picture: Confetti.co.uk
dried or silk flowers. Invitations themed around nature are also huge this year. Consider incorporating butterflies, leaves, birds or flowers into your stationery design to achieve this effortlessly pretty, natural theme. When it comes to colour, try matching the colour of your invites with those used in your flowers and table decorations. Alternatively, you could tie your stationery in to the
Picture: www.madewithlovedesigns.co.uk
season of your wedding, using oranges and golden browns for an autumn ceremony, crisp whites and reds for winter wedding or pretty pastels for spring nuptials. Whichever stationery style you prefer it’s vital that your invitations reflect both your personality and the theme of your wedding.
● Vintage floral invites are perfect for a wedding Picture Francis Dee
M A K E - U P, H A I R & B E A U T Y AT. . .
glam n glitter • Bridal Hair and Make-up Package £75
Includes: Pre-trial, *hair and make-up on the day at the salon
• Mother-of-the-Bride and Bridesmaid packages £45 *hair & make-up on the day *Wash & Blow dry, curly or straight, styled up or down Make-up using Artdeco and Mac including false eyelashes Also offering complimentary sparkling drinks Appointments not always required – call for more details
141 St. Johns Road, Waterloo, Merseyside, L22 9QE 0151 928 0983
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Autumn Brides
Mane attraction ● Detailed
● Big day
Picture: Julia Nicholls
D
ream venue? Check. Stunning dress? Check. Gorgeous bridal hair style ready to wow your groom? Ermm..... perhaps not! But don't worry – you soon will.
An essential part of your overall style, its only natural that you want to look beautiful on your wedding day and whether you've got your heart set on an elegant chignon and be-jewelled slide or glamorous, tumbling curls, there are hundreds of wonderful hair styles to suit every bride. Start by thinking about the style of your dress and ceremony. Are you having a formal ceremony in a fairytale castle or is it a relaxed reception in a garden and marquee? How about accessories and headdresses? Are you planning on wearing a tiara and veil? If so, these factors will probably dictate
Picture: Reflections
what styles will be suitable and it's essential to think about hair styles that are able to incorporate this. Make sure that you find a hairdresser that you can trust and feel comfortable with as well. Once these basic requirements are fulfilled, you'll find that everything else will fall into place. We all know the power of a good hair day – it can boost your confidence, make you walk tall and feel beautiful. So, it stands to reason that, when it comes to your wedding day, you want your hair to be your crowning glory. The key is to keep hair and make-up simple but elegant. Try to choose a style that both flatters your face shape and has the staying power to last all day. If you’re keen to try out a new style, 2009 has a host of hair trends to help you be the mane attraction.
● Elegant
Top hair tips
● Embellishment is big so accessorise hair with ornate clips, bejewelled slides, a tiara or jewelled Alice band. ● For a relaxed, modern twist on an up-do curl the lower lengths of your hair and finish by pinning the top layers back to create a halfup, half-down style. ● Or to create volume in the crown then pin hair back leaving the sides smooth and a side fringe. ● Big, voluminous hair is a key look with tumbled curls ● Use an indulgently rich hair mask once a week to revitalise your tresses in the lead up to your big day. ● Ask your stylist for expert advice and always consider your face shape when choosing a hairstyle.
HAIR EXTENSIONS & BEAUTY ACCESSORIES Funky Flix is new to the area but already the talk of the town, and is bringing a touch of Hollywood glamour to Crosby. Family run, the shop based on St John’s Road, is a collaboration between three sisters, Danielle, Barbara and Kim, who are all chic ladies themselves and realised there was a gap in the market for somewhere selling funky accessories for going out. And so Funky Flix was born. Stocking a fantastic selection of goodies from human hair extensions, hair pieces and wigs to funky jewellery, false eye lashes, self-tanning products and make-up, the shop has literally everything you could possibly need to add that gorgeously glamourous finishing touch to your look, on your special day Funky Flix is literally crammed from floor to ceiling with beautiful things, which sparkle and shimmer and the shop is a real Aladdin’s Cave for anyone
• Hair Extensions, Wigs, Hairpieces • Tiara’s & Hair Accessories • Bridal, Prom & Occasion Wear
Picture: Julia Nicholls
whose style is seriously glamourous. Specialists in human hair extensions, Funky Flix is one of very few outlets stocking these musthave hair accessories and with this in mind, the shop offers a generous discount to any trade customers. Prices are highly competitive making it more affordable than ever to look absolutely stunning for your special day if you want to impress, you have certainly come to the right place. Watch this space for Funky Flix’s website which is due online shortly, so even if you don’t live locally, you’ll still be able to enjoy the Funky Flix experience and order products for yourself from the comfort of your own home. Pop into the shop today at 85 St John’s Road for a browse and a friendly chat with the girls or telephone 0151 284 3180 for more information.
• Fascinators • Costume Jewellery • Make-up, Cosmetics, False Tan • False Eyelashes
Individual Consultations for people suffering hair loss and medical conditions Late night appointments can be arranged
Open Monday to Saturday 9.30-5.30pm
85 St Johns Road, Waterloo L22 9QD • 0151 284 3180
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Mediamix Supplement ● Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Autumn Brides Watch the birdie! CHOOSING a wedding photographer is, like so many aspects of tailoring a wedding to your specific design, a matter of finding the best fit. And the best way to do this is to go out and meet your photographer face to face and see if you like them and get on with them. If you feel at ease with your photographer and they seem to like you too, then you can feel more assured that your wedding photographs will turn out well, with smiles galore and a true capture of the spirit of your wedding. Of course, image quality is a very important consideration, as is price. The memories contained within your wedding snaps will last a lifetime, and so their importance shouldn’t be knocked. However, you should find out exactly what you get for your money from a number of different photographers and draw some direct comparisons before you make a firm decision. The quality of the photographs is the next thing. All photographers should be capable of high quality results, but each will offer something slightly different in terms of style, technique and print options. Looking at their portfolio online is a good way to start, but will only give you an outline of how the finished photographs will appear. Ask to see examples of photographs taken at roughly the same time of year as you’re planning to get married, and also how the photographer deals with different weather conditions. If they can still produce a great wedding photo when it’s raining and/or the middle of winter, then you know you have a decent photographer on your hands! Then that’s one more thing sorted out before your wedding, and all that’s left for you to do is say “cheese” when the big day comes.
Keep it simple to look good
A
VOIDING any lastminute make-up disasters on your big day is essential.
There are so many amazing products on the market now that you’ll be able to have flawless skin for the day of your dreams. As with anything important, research is key. Ask at your local cosmetic counter what the latest trends are, and try to look as natural as possible. It is important to make sure you do a trial run first so you know what suits you, and then you can pucker up and concentrate on looking radiant. If you don’t have the confidence to apply your make-up yourself, there are plenty of experts on hand to ensure you look a million dollars. It’s best to have an idea of what your want prior to visiting your salon or makeup artist, so flick through magazines, go online and try to find a style and colour palette that suit your complexion. But how can you make sure that your make-up lasts all day? You don’t want to be running to the bathroom all the time to touch up your make-up, so invest in some long-lasting
● Keep your make-up simple on your big day make-up that is guaranteed to see you through your big day. From all-day foundation and crease-proof eye shadow to waterproof mascara (a must for any bride!) and long-lasting lipstick, there are loads of products out there which are specifically designed to last all day. But it’s not just your make-up which you’ll need to plan for the big day. Your health and well-being also need to be taken care of. Organising a wedding can be a stressful time, and you don’t want to walk down the aisle with bags under your
'
Touche
Ladieswear Exclusive collections for the Mother of the Bride/Groom and other special guests by top designers including Luis Civit, Michel Ambers, John Charles and Coterie, many with coordinating hats and fascinators Also see our stunning range of casual-wear and accessories.
eyes from all that worrying. So, take timeout to give yourself a pampering session. Think about having a relaxing massage to help you chill out, drink plenty of water and take regular exercise. Start visiting your local beauty salon for some primping and pampering well in advance of the wedding. Make sure you book yourself in for laser hair removal or a waxing session, try some false eyelashes so you can flutter your eyes at the groom, and maybe even think about teeth whitening to ensure a perfect smile. Whatever you decide, remember to plan ahead and don’t leave it until the last minute. Here are a few tips to get you started: One week to go: Book into your salon for the works. A typical session might include:
Legs, underarms and bikini line all need tackling. ● Pedicure – smooth feet look better in those delicate open-toed wedding shoes and on the beach. Plus, hardened skin actually makes it more ● Eyebrow shaping uncomfortable to walk, and ● Eyelash extensions you’ll be on your feet all ● One last facial – as with day, so a pedicure is a must. any detoxification process, ● Have your hair and spots can emerge, so don’t make-up dress rehearsal. have a facial too near to The day before: your big day. Have a massage, and ask your massage practitioner to focus on your tense face but not to use any essential oils that might create a breakout. Relax and enjoy. Get your manicure. This will give you time to sit and chill out, and there’s less chance of smudging it than on the big day, when you’re feeling frantic. Check your Pictures courtesy of Clarins eyebrows – do you need any last-minute ● Waxing – if you’re on the plucking? beach for a couple of weeks Don’t wear any make-up, for your honeymoon, longso you can let your skin lasting hair removal is a breathe. must.
The Scarisbrick Hotel
Bridal Fayre
Professional advice on hand from local wedding experts
Ideal Central Location Registered for Civil Wedding Ceremonies Catering from 20 up to 180 Top of the range Function suites First Class Food and Service Fully air-conditioned Suites Excellent value for money ‘Very Adaptable’ Wedding packages Four poster Honeymoon Suites included in the Wedding package Discounted bedrooms for family & friends
Thursday 8th October 6pm - 9pm Free Admission Free Prize Draw Complimentary Champagne Cocktails and Canapes to all our guests Fashion Show - 7pm
Touché Ladieswear, The Boskins, Church Road, Tarleton, Preston, PR4 6UP.
Bridal Wear • Photographers Florists Balloons • Cakes Cars • Stationary
Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm
LORDSTREETSOUTHPORT Telephone01704543000 Email: info@scarisbrickhotel.com www.scarisbrickhotel.com
Tel: 01772 814003
The Scarisbrick Hotel
For the best day of your life. Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa. Our picturesque setting is the breath-taking backdrop to your big day. Together with our professional wedding planners on hand, we ensure that every detail of your dream wedding is taken care of, giving you a lifetime of happy memories. From the red carpet arrival to the wedding breakfast and the ultimate reception, we can cater for any wedding, large or small.
To talk to one of our wedding planners, call 01704 875 699. Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa, Southport Old Road, Formby, Merseyside L37 0AB Visit www.formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk