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A stunning range of elegant bridal gowns & bridesmaid dresses FOR ALL YOUR BRIDAL DREAMS... Unit 5 Bowker House, Lee Mill, Devon PL21 9EF 01752 656964 info@bellabellabridal.co.uk www.bellabellabridal.co.uk
Editor’s Note
T
he days are longer, the sun is shining and wedding season is in full swing - that’s right, it’s summer time! The year is already half way complete, I hope you’re enjoying every last free minute of it!
ON THE COVER
With care and delight we have filled these pages with fun tips and visual delights to help you along the path towards your big day. We have an array of local businesses who are each available to lend a guiding hand. Photography: Louise Vissen www.louisevissen.com Styling: Rosanne Forrest Gover Model: Abigail Ruth Read Hair: Jessica Taylor of Arena Creative Hair Make-up: Aline Kaloudi Dress: The Wedding Company
Image sourced from Debenhams at www.prshots.com
Distributed bi-monthly to thousands of couples planning their BIG day, all of whom are looking for services like YOURS!
Especially for this issue, the lovely and talented photographer Louise Vissen has captured some amazing fashion shots to inspire you for your special day. Instead of playing it safe, we went for bold make-up and funky hair to add a ‘different and unique’ element to the wedding look. Congratulations to our lucky competition winner from issue 2. Once again we have another exciting prize up for grabs, the wonderful duo at Precious Pops are offering the hire of their brand new, vintage ice cream trike. Wouldn’t it be lovely, to provide your guests with a refreshing, tasty treat? You have to be in it to win it so turn to page 21 now! I’d also like to say a huge thank you to all our readers for your lovely feedback and support! We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time...
nsey LyEditor
&
Always Forever Plymouth’s guide to weddings
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Call Lisa for a friendly, informal chat T: 01752 223290 M: 07730 225445 W: www.lisarichards-photography.co.uk 3
‘Biba’ Ebony Rose Bridesmaid dresses available from Bella Bella Bridal, Lee Mill, Devon
Cont
SE PLEA N IO MENT OREVER S&F Y A W N AL WHE NG ONDI RESP VERTS! D TO A
tents 12
Blooming Beautiful
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THE Speech
22 24 26
Real Weddings
28
The Wedding Wishing Well Foundation
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Local Events
Buy, Wed, Sell Win! Vintage Ice Cream Trike Hire
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T: 01752 242978 M: 07533 808034 E: lynsey@alwaysandforevermag.co.uk
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Maid In Heaven Children Welcome!
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Always & Forever Magazine MackMedia Design and Print
Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publisher. We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that MackMedia Design and Print accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions in this publication. All opinions expressed in Always & Forever - Plymouth’s guide to weddings are that of the individual contributor and are not always shared by the publication.
DIRECTOR AND EDITOR Lynsey Mackie FEATURES EDITOR Helen Grant WRITERS Lynsey Mackie Helen Grant Sophie Belcher (work experience) GRAPHIC DESIGNER Lynsey Mackie BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR Maxine Amelie DISTRIBUTOR Jean Mackie COMPETITION PRIZES With thanks to Precious Pops WELL DONE TO LAST ISSUES COMPETITION WINNER: K Murphy who has won a gourmet break for two at St Mellion International Resort
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: Photographer - Louise Vissen Styling - Rosanne Forrest Gover Model - Abigail Ruth Read Makeup - Aline Kaloudi Hair - Jessica Taylor of Arena Creative Hair Dress - Courtesy of The Wedding Company, Plympton
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: Photographer - Louise Vissen Styling - Rosanne Forrest Gover Model - Abigail Ruth Read Makeup - Aline Kaloudi Hair - Jessica Taylor of Arena Creative Hair Dress - Courtesy of The Wedding Company, Plympton
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: Photographer - Louise Vissen Styling - Rosanne Forrest Gover Model - Amy Jane Eaton Makeup - Aline Kaloudi Hair - Jessica Taylor of Arena Creative Hair Dress - Courtesy of The Wedding Company, Plympton
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: Photographer - Louise Vissen Styling - Rosanne Forrest Gover Model - Amy Jane Eaton Makeup - Aline Kaloudi Hair - Jessica Taylor of Arena Creative Hair Dress - Courtesy of The Wedding Company, Plympton
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A relaxed bride is a radiant bride
The Blue Room Weddings can be stressful no matter how many friends and family you have helping you get ready for your big day. If you’re in need of some serious pre-wedding pampering, a massage is the perfect answer. An opportunity to unwind from the wedding day preparations and take the time to revive your body and mind.
Indian Head Massage
Indian Head Massage is so much more than just a relaxing neck, shoulder and head massage. It will leave you feeling at peace with the out k Chec world and our very completely special offer detached on page from daily 21! stresses.
Aromatherapy Massage
Essential oils exert a subtle influence on the mind, combined with massage they offer a holistic, gentle and natural way of achieving emotional and physical balance in your life.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot Stone Massage is the Rolls Royce of massage and is a truly unique and profoundly healing experience offering deep emotional and physical release.
Visit: www.theblueroomeft.com • 01752 217381 support@theblueroomeft.com • 42 Alcester Street, Plymouth PL2 1EG • Like us on
Unwind your mind at The Blue Room...
Y
ou can be sure of a very warm welcome and complete confidentiality in a safe and relaxing environment. We are committed to offering the best possible service and use pure, paraben and synthetic free Vegan Friendly Products. Not only do The Blue room offer a range of holistic and complimentary therapies, spray or manual tanning is also available. Every bride wants to look and feel amazing on her wedding day, whether you’re after a warm, healthy glow or a deep, rich tan that would rival ten days in the sun, we can help you achieve exactly the look you desire. Contact Fiona Crane today to book a free consultation to discuss your needs. Telephone: 01752 217381
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A L H LA A IR SP D E R C ES TS SI O N F G
Fiona Crane of The Blue Room
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing or invigorating massage, healing and balancing Reiki or a gentle and effective way of managing anxiety, you will find a treatment to fulfill your needs at The Blue Room.
a Be tifully e d au bri be zed Blue n e ng bro h Th anni wit om t ice! Ro serv
11
Flowers
g n i m o o l
B
Words by Helen Grant
DIY Queen of hearts place cards
BEAUTIFUL
What’s a wedding without flowers? Kick off your quest for beautiful blooms with our tips and trends.
Dartmoor Flowers www.dartmoorflowers.co.uk
O
ne of the best things about planning a wedding is putting your stamp on the day, and that includes your flowers. But with shops bursting with seasonal blooms and a seemingly endless choice of combinations and scents, from sweet lily of the valley to spicy chrysanthemum, where do you start? It’s easy to drown in a sea of choices. Essential flowers to consider are the bride’s bouquet (the most spectacular of the day!) groom’s and groomsmens’ buttonholes (lily of the valley is a good choice), bridesmaids’ posies (traditionally a smaller version of the bride’s flowers), corsages for mother-of-the-bride, mother-of-the-groom and other special relatives
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Dartmoor Flowers www.dartmoorflowers.co.uk
(roses, orchids, camellias and gardenias in white or cream are popular), table centerpieces, thank-you bouquets, ceremony and reception decoration. If you’re marrying in church, flowers secured to pew ends, on the altar, steps and windowsills ooze creative flair, and archway garlands look fabulously feminine. For flower girls, consider flower or petal filled baskets sprayed white or pastel, a piece of ribbon tied around the flower girl’s wrist with a spray of flowers attached, or a floral bracelet.
You could ask your flower girl or youngest bridesmaid to scatter petals down the aisle, providing it’s okay with the venue. A carpet of fresh petals provides a romantic touch for an outdoor wedding too. Cut pictures from magazines and books of flowers that you like, to show your florist. Borrow gardening books from the library and note the names of flowers that catch your eye. Take a trip to your garden centre or botanical garden to get a feel for how flowers appear in reality. Learning the meanings of flowers may help you decide too. Google ‘flower meanings’ on the Internet for inspiration. If modern is your thing, most florists rent out glassware for table arrangements, freestanding trees and floral structures coordinated to your theme. Consider an eyecatching bouquet made of steel grass with flowers wired and glued on, or one or two luxury orchids or calla lilies for your focal point, mixed with seasonal flowers, sourced locally for quality.
Consider your height and dress style. As a rule, if the bodice is detailed, keep your bouquet simple and hand-tied to avoid it overshadowing your dress. Opt for a clustered posy or a trailing bouquet carried over one arm. A long train worn by a tall bride looks lovely with a trailing shower bouquet. For smaller brides, an elegant teardrop bouquet will add height. Large flowers such as roses or peonies can be loosely arranged with foliage and tied with ribbon. Dartmoor Flowers www.dartmoorflowers.co.uk
You don’t need many lilies to make a ‘wow’ statement. An elegant line bouquet or a small posy, hand-tied with ribbon, is a pretty choice to coordinate with a slim-fitting gown. Gerberas are fun and contemporary too, available in a variety of colours.
Dartmoor Flowers www.dartmoorflowers.co.uk
White is traditionally a popular colour for bridal bouquets, but pastels and rich, vibrant colours work too. Choose snow-white flowers (rose, sweet pea, camellia, narcissus, gardenia, orchid, lily of the valley, jasmine and gypsophila to name a few) with a dusting of sparkle and diamante detail for dazzling effect. Wide, satin ribbon provides a rich, luxurious finishing touch. 13
Flowers Shades of blue are a sophisticated summer choice. Hydrangeas, freesias and roses in creamy whites and pale blues make delightful bouquets, posies and hair bands for flower girls. For sheer prettiness, indulge in a palette of pastels, with muted shades of pink, blue, cream and peach, or a rose-tinted, lemon, lavender or pale green and white bouquet. Sweet peas, carnations, tulips, lavender, lilac, iris, delphinium and hydrangea are pretty choices.
Red is incredibly passionate, don’t you think? From deep red to raspberry and blush pink, it’s the colour of romance, renowned for bringing luck in some countries. Personalise your bouquet by adding a piece of jewellery such as a string of pearls or a crystal brooch, butterflies or diamanté initials, especially poignant if the jewellery has sentimental value. Organza ribbon can be used to create bows and streamers. For a special touch, include a single flower that reminds you of your childhood.
Dartmoor Flowers www.dartmoorflowers.co.uk
Exotic flowers in juicy shades with tropical foliage add a playful touch. Be bold with bird of paradise bursts of yellow (daffodil, sunflower, tulip) and green with a twist of hot pink.
By Deborah Morris
Exquisite wedding flowers individually designed to compliment you, your personality and your memorable day 01822 859081 info@dartmoorflowers.co.uk www.dartmoorflowers.co.uk 14
Tempt your tastebuds There are many things that mark a sweet event such as your wedding, but nothing beats the way an eye-catching wedding cake fills the hearts (and tummies) of your guests!
F
ive years ago, Cassie of Cassies Crafty Cakes decided to spread her culinary wings and share her love of baking with the people of Plymouth. Using the finest, locally sourced ingredients, Cassie prides herself on following traditional methods to produce her top notch, delicacy delights!
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Exceed all your expectations with a bespoke wedding cake lovingly crafted by Cassie!
Whether you’re after an extravagant wedding cake, a novelty birthday cake or even a batch of scrumptious sparkly cupcakes, Cassie is your girl! Just drop her an email to cassiescraftycakes@gmail.com or call 07885 667692 to discuss ideas for your tempting treat.
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17
THE
Speech
The ceremony is over, the reception is in full swing and now it’s time for the eagerly anticipated speeches.
Speeches
T
raditionally it’s the father of the bride, the best man and the groom that make speeches. Nowadays however it’s not uncommon for the chief bridesmaid or even the bride herself to say some words. The idea of public speaking is something that strikes fear into many people, so with a room full of guests and the happy couple looking on, where do you begin? Here are some top tips for speech writing to make sure that your speech is as brilliantly delivered as it is memorable. 18
Draft and draft again. It may seem obvious, but the best place to start is to write your speech down. Decide what kind of speech you want to create. Short and sweet, touching, or filled with humorous anecdotes about the couple, this will give you a goal and make the speech a little easier to write. It will never be perfect and wedding ready the very first time, but writing it down in advance of the wedding will allow you to refine it. Find someone to read it who will give you their honest opinion and give some suggestions. If it’s written in plenty of time you will have time to redraft and make it absolutely prefect. Redrafting will also allow you to learn the speech to some extent. While you don’t want to sound scripted, it’s best to know the speech well so that it sounds effortless on the day.
Funny anecdotes can be a fantastic, but do remember this is one of the biggest days in the couples lives so don’t include anything overly embarrassing or humiliating. If you’re the best man steer clear of any tales of the grooms past relationships, you may find it hilarious but the bride most likely won’t appreciate it! Try to speak about the couple as a couple. it would be easy, especially if you are the grooms best friend, to end up spending the entire speech waxing lyrical about your friendship rather than reflecting on the relationship between the groom and his new wife. The wedding day is primarily about the couple cementing their relationship, keep this in mind. Be original. Speech writing is a hugely personal thing. It’s much better to speak from the heart, with true emotion than to regurgitate passages found on the internet.You are delivering the speech to a room full of people, many of whom you will probably know. It’s natural to be nervous but you are among friends and family, don’t be afraid to be yourself. Consider the length of your speech. Short, sweet and meaningful can be fabulous and it’s always good to leave the room wanting more, however, keep in mind that a very lengthy speech can leave people checking their watches and wondering where the bar might be. Try to keep it below ten minutes maximum, remember that it’s a speech, not a presentation. Consider photos or small props, this will make the speech a little more visually interesting and make it memorable. Finally, remember that there is no solid rules for speech writing. It’s a personal thing and there really is no right or wrong, only guidance and advice. Be yourself, celebrate the relationship of the couple, and try and enjoy your little moment in the limelight!
Buy and Sell
BUY WED SELL A free-ad page for brides to save and make money! Buy and sell brand new, gently used, never used, over-ordered, changed-your-mind wedding stuff!
Stunning Monsoon Wedding Dress Cream, off the shoulder Size: small Excellent condition Comes with original dress cover £100 ono. Please call T: 07810 641635
Beautiful Ivory Wedding Dress
From the Bridal Emporium, Exeter Size: 10 Worn once Lovely detailing to waist £400 ono. Please call T: 07947 592244 If you would like to list your good condition items in Always & Forever* please email: lynsey@alwaysandforevermag.co.uk Include a high res photo, a short description and your contact details. *Goods will be listed in the next issue of the magazine & on Facebook
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this Christmas and New Year at the Holiday Inn Plymouth, we are sure to help you to create memories you will treasure forever.
To see the full selection of our festive events, please visit: www.qmhchristmas.com T: 01752 639988 E: christmas.hiplymouth@qmh-hotels.com www.facebook.com/HolidayInnPlymouth
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with 3 flavours of ice cream on your wedding day! Serving up to 100 guests for two and a half hours. Dates between Sept 2013 - Dec 2015. For your chance to win: Simply ‘like’ Always & Forever on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AlwaysandForevermag and subscribe to the magazine here: www.mackmediadesign.com/always-forever-magazine/request-copy all subscribers old and new will be entered into the draw. CARTS CANDY
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Looking for a unique and fun way of giving wedding favours?
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Real Weddings
Amy &
GEORGE
HOW THEY MET Amy and George instantly clicked five years ago. They met whilst George was working and Amy was on a girls night out. HOW HE PROPOSED The couple talked about getting married for weeks then one night after a lovely day out George asked Amy to become his wife. MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS Amy will never forget walking down the aisle and seeing George, the first thing he said was how beautiful she was. Also, their adorable baby daughter passing them the rings with the help of their best man. 22
MARRIAGE DATE 27th april 2013 WEDDING Moorland Gardens Hotel NUMBER OF ATTENDANTS Best Man, 2 Page Boys, 4 Bridesmaids, 1 Maid of Honor GOWN AND SUITS Ivory Tower FLOWERS H Watts HAIR Pin Ups hair MAKE UP Flawless Beauty PHOTOS AND DJ Chameleon Roadshow CHAIR COVERS Rose Mays TABLE DECORATION Affinity Wonders WEDDING CAKE Brides Mum
FUNNIEST MOMENT They still have a little giggle about the brilliant magician (David Andrews Magic) playing a trick on their best man in front of all of the guests. FIRST DANCE The couple’s first dance was ‘Amazed’ by Lonestar, then straight after so all of their guests could get up and dance they had Ronan Keating ‘When you say nothing at all’. HONEYMOON Soon after their special day, the newly weds stayed at a fantastic little place called Rudge near Bath. They stayed in a beautiful, converted, country barn, which was a lovely, romantic, relaxing retreat.
FINALIST 2013
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Get in touch today to book your appointment!
www.faithfuldesigns.co.uk 23
Bridesmaids
Maidin Heaven Words by Sophie Belcher
The nuptials are months away, the wedding still in its planning stages and you’ve been asked to be part of one of the biggest days of the bride’s life, as her bridesmaid. Here are some top tips to help your maidly duties to run smoothly...
D
on’t be afraid to share your opinion. The bride has chosen you out of everybody she knows to be her bridesmaid because it’s your opinion that she values. While ultimately the bride’s vision is paramount, you should be able to offer your own advice and support to the proceedings. Answering her queries with ‘what do you want us to have?’ are helpful at times but don’t forget that if she is asking the question it’s probably because she’s genuinely undecided. For example, the colour of the dresses may be chosen in line with her colour scheme, but she may not be entirely set upon a certain style or design. Go in with some ideas of your own, things that will suit you and the other bridesmaids equally, it’s always better to have options! Be flexible. Being a bridesmaid is fun but it can also be time consuming and expensive. Try to be as flexible as possible, but at the same time, don’t commit to anything that you may not be able to deliver. If the dresses are too expensive for your budget, don’t be afraid to tell the bride, it’s better to be honest than to be left out of pocket with a dress you’ll most likely never wear again. Suggest similar but cheaper options, the other bridesmaids will probably thank you for it.
DIVINE Wedding & Party Planner
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For a no obligation quote call Emma Andrews 07718 253949
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Transform your venue with elegant chair covers with organza, satin or taffeta bows to match your chosen colour scheme from only £1 ........................................................... Chocolate fountain packages from £195-£295 ........................................................... Profiterole tower, great for puddings after your wedding breakfast or evening buffet from £150 sweetie buffet packages from £50-£200 ........................................................... Venue decor including centrepiece and topiary tree packages. Call for more information!
Bridesmaids Be creative with your hen party ideas. As a bridesmaid, the task often falls to you to plan the hen party. L plates and novelty straws are the norm but this isn’t for everyone. Consider the bride’s personality and plan accordingly. Consider maybe a themed dance class followed by cocktails and a meal. For brides with a sense of adventure consider paintballing or quad biking or maybe for those not so interested in adrenaline fuelled excursions consider group spa treatments or a weekend away. It needs to be something that will be a fun and memorable send off from the single life but keep in mind that it also needs to be something that a variety of hen party guests will enjoy. Consider making a ‘Wedding Emergency Kit’. This can either be a lovely gift for the bride or just a handy little kit to take to the wedding yourself. You never know what could occur. Consider a printed tote bag with the brides married name on it. These can be purchased for minimal cost online. Fill the bag with handy items such as hairgrips for unruly up-dos, safety pins for any last minute dress emergencies and maybe even a miniature bottle of your bride’s favourite tipple for that last minute bit of Dutch courage. There is an abundance of quirky bridal gifts online that could be added for that personal touch. A dress hanger with the brides married name on it for example could be a special and handy keepsake.
Finally, the biggest tip of all? Just enjoy it! It’s not every day that you get to be pampered and have a beautiful dress waiting in the wings! Being a Bridesmaid is an honour and you will end up having very special memories to treasure for years to come!
IMAGE: www.monsoon.co.uk
The smallest mishap on the morning of the wedding can seem like an absolute disaster to a nervous bride but a kit like this could mean the difference between total bridal meltdown and a smooth running morning.
IMAGE: www.monsoon.co.uk
Childcare
Children welcome! Children can be a LOT of fun at weddings (especially busting their cute little moves on the dancefloor!) but long periods of sitting still and being quiet can be very difficult for young children with short attention spans. Boredom kicks in, they may become restless, hungry and overtired which can lead to tantrums, tears and frazzled parents.
T
here is no doubt that children can take the focus away from the bride - so many of us missed “The Kiss” at William and Kate’s royal wedding as we were so transfixed by the grumpy looking bridesmaid on the balcony with them. If you are having a lot of young children at your wedding, you might want to consider hiring crèche facilities run by qualified nannies who can supervise throughout the whole or specific parts of the day.
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How do crèches work? Venues are very sympathetic to the plight of brides who feel obliged to invite young children but don’t want them to be running around during the meal, chatting through the speeches or getting over-tired in the evening. They are usually very happy to supply a room close to the main festivities which can be set up as a ‘chill out zone’. Depending on the age of the children creche staff will be quipped with anything from soft toys, books and beanbags to computer consoles and DVDs. All creche staff should be CRB checked and the creche company should be fully insured. For peace of mind and happy children, contact Dartmoor Childcare on 07870 306987.
Everything under one roof!
M
You have a dress to dazzle, a cake to devour and the wedding venue of your dreams. It’s now time to turn you attention to the all important finishing touches. Affinity Wonders are here to help!
ake your wedding wishes come true with Affinity Wonders, the Plympton based celebration shop.
Trading since 2007, the team have the expertise to capture and deliver your wedding day vision, from transforming your entire venue or just helping with last minute details, leaving you with time to enjoy the magical months before your big day. Everything at Affinity Wonders is competitively priced, ensuring that you won’t turn into a broke bridezilla! For example, stunning centrepieces start from only £5.00! Affinity Wonders is also home to the wonderful Rose Mays who is on hand to supply you with quality chair covers and vibrant sashes which will add a touch of class to your chosen venue.
Affinity Wonders hire wishing wells and Royal Mail post boxes and sell favours, helium balloons, cufflinks, disposable cameras, stationery and more. This delightful shop is a must visit for any couple organising a wedding, everything you desire is under one roof, saving your time, energy and stress levels! So, for advice and inspiration to help plan your special day, whatever your theme or budget pop along to Affinity Wonders: 17 St Maurice Road PL7 1NR or visit: www.affinitywonders.co.uk for more information.
YOUR ONE STOP CELEBRATION SHOP!
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Naomi Thomas, founder of The Wedding Wishing Well Foundation, chats to Editor Lynsey Mackie at Always & Forever about the inspirational organisation helping to give people with terminal illnesses and life limiting conditions, the wedding day of their dreams...
‘Where it all began’
A
t thirty years old Naomi is a happily married, mum of one and settled in the beautiful Somerset town of Wellington, with her new husband, Graham. However, one thing you wouldn’t know about Naomi if you saw her in the street is that she is living with Secondary Breast Cancer, a disease which has transformed her life and the lives of others, in so many ways. In 2005 Naomi began working as a self employed Wedding Planner across the county of Devon. Life was going swimmingly, it seemed. But after only four years pursuing her dream career and only three months with her fiancé Graham, Naomi’s world was turned upside down as she was given the devastating news that she had Breast Cancer. She was only 26. Naomi admitted it was a diagnosis that she never thought she would hear. ‘It was terrifying,” she says. “Your world just falls apart, especially thinking of my loved ones.’ Detailing her involvement with Bosom Buddies UK, an organisation which educates and advises on all aspects of breast health in schools, Naomi describes how it is essential that younger women (and men) check their breasts at least once a month. ‘Young people need to be taught from an early age, the importance of knowing what
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Weddin The g Wish Founda ing Well tion ‘Here c omes th e Bride ’
is ‘normal’ for their breasts, knowing what to look and feel for, and actually checking for lumps and changes. If they do discover anything they must report any changes to their GP’s without delay’ says Naomi. ‘The cancer rollercoaster’ After a gruelling series of treatments including an operation, chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy, Naomi had hoped she had beaten the disease and looked to the future with Graham. In 2010, Naomi discovered she was pregnant. She explained how she felt very lucky to be carrying a baby, especially knowing chemotherapy can more often than not affect fertility in women. Unfortunately, this excitement soon turned to devastation as only six days after her newborn son, Devon, came into the world Naomi was rushed back into hospital with a serious MRSA infection. It was during this time that doctors delivered that the cancer had spread and that her back had broken in three places due to her bones being eaten away by cancer. Despite everything, Naomi soon had come to terms with the fact she had incurable Secondary Breast Cancer. Defiantly, Naomi bravely endured further treatment, only for surgeons to decide against operating on the tumour on her spine for various reasons.
Worthy Causes Having had to cancel their wedding day due to the financial impact cancer has on people going through it, Naomi decided to arrange a charity event in the town she grew up in, Sidmouth, Devon to lift her spirits. Naomi’s extraordinary story soon caught the attention of local Wedding Planner Sam Williams. Unknown to Naomi, this event was to signal the first step towards her becoming the beaming Mrs Thomas, as she is today. Through the enormous generosity of Sam, the local community and from complete strangers, a dream wedding was arranged with donations from wedding suppliers on 6th June 2012, Naomi and Graham eventually tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony at St Audries Park, Somerset. Naomi admits, ‘It was a stunning day; one to cherish for ever. I loved feeling special for the day and getting the chance to marry the man who has supported me through so much. As I have always proclaimed, I am eternally grateful to everyone who made the day possible; it really was a real group effort.’ Determined to put her experiences to positive use, Naomi set about ways to help others enjoy the wedding day of their dreams. So, in early 2012, with this passion and determination, The Wedding Wishing Well Foundation was born. However, as with any new venture, there are always challenges, as Naomi has found out: ‘One major challenge has been receiving the applications and the dealing with the range of emotions it stirs up. It is exciting to think we can help people have a fantastic wedding day but at the same time, it is difficult to think about the limited time couples will enjoy as husband and wife.’ ‘Behind this upset, however,’ says Naomi ‘lays a desire to focus on the positive side of things in life.
If The Wedding Wishing Well Foundation is able to help, in any way, make the couple feel complete, just as Graham and I did on our wedding day, I will be one happy lady!’ ‘Looking forward to the future’ Although Naomi now has to consume a concoction of hormonal drugs to force her into premature menopause and prolong her life as long as possible, she explains that her plans for the future of The Wedding Wishing Well Foundation are simple. Naomi said she wants ‘to spread the word about the project, continue raising funds and awareness, in turn helping more and more people in the same position as me’. How can you help this worthy cause? If you are a supplier, individual or business and can offer your services for free or at a reduced rate, The Wedding Wishing Well Foundation would love to hear from you. Whatever your niche or specialism, with your help you will be supporting this inspirational organisation. Any wedding products, services or support are always welcome and the foundation continually searches for enthusiastic people to generate vital funds too; through donation, sponsorship or fundraising. When such fabulous projects support people and their loved ones through some of the most challenging of times in their lives, there is nothing more rewarding than giving something back and putting a smile on everyone’s faces. For more information contact Dee Halifax. Please email: Cornwallteam@weddingwishingwell.org.uk Or call: 07532 443 269 www.weddingwishingwellfoundation.org
Local Events THE PLYMOUTH WEDDING SHOW
Holiday Inn Plymouth Sunday 8 September • 11am-3:30pm Entry free • Free goody bag VIP tours available • Fashion show at 1pm For more information visit: www.captivatingevents.co.uk
AUTUMN WEDDING FAYRE
Exeter Castle, Exeter, Devon Sunday 29 September • 11am-3.00pm Entry free • Free goody bag For more information visit: www.weddingsbyclaire.co.uk
ELFORDLEIGH WEDDING FAYRE
Hosted by Affinity Wonders Sunday 13 October • 11am-3.00pm Entry free • Over 30 local wedding businesses under one roof For more information email: affinityweddingwonders@yahoo.co.uk
BUCKERELL LODGE HOTEL
Exeter, Devon Sunday 3 November • 11am-3.00pm Entry free • Free goody bag For more information visit: www.weddingsbyclaire.co.uk
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