National Weddings Magazine Summer 2017

National

WEDDINGS magazine SUMMER 2017 NWMAG.CO.UK

ASK THE EXPERTS

Win

A Gift from The Groom Say thank you personally

SEE INSIDE FOR OUR COMPETITIONS

Fall in love with

Honeymoon Essentials

Fiji

REAL LIFE WEDDING

Travel must-haves

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REGIONAL GUIDE

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

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Feat ures

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CONTENTS

16

WIN WIN WIN

GIFT FROM THE GROOM

6

4

WILL YOU BE MY?

REAL LIFE WEDDING

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11 18 20 30 40 47 49 56 62 74 89 92

FASHION & JEWELLERY WEDDING SERVICES DATES FOR YOUR DIARY VENUES MIDLAND BRIDE WELSH BRIDE EAST OF ENGLAND BRIDE LONDON BRIDE SOUTHERN BRIDE NORTHERN BRIDE SCOTTISH BRIDE DESTINATION WEDDINGS

FRONT COVER

FALL IN LOVE WITH FIJI

FRONT COVER IMAGE COURTESY OF CAROLINE CASTIGLIANO wwwcarolinecastigliano.com Dress style: Eternal Love

CONTACT US...

T's & C's

www.shop-4.co.uk

www.nwmag.co.uk National Weddings Magazine

Shop-4

@natweddingsmag

@shop-4

Denise Russell

Editor@nwmag.co.uk

Reproduction of any written material, advertisement or illustration in this publication in any form is expressly forbidden, unless the prior consent of the editor has been given in writing.

Neither Black Cat Publishing Limited or Alicat Design accept liability for loss or damage to photographs or any other material submitted to the magazine. All product/service details are correct at time of printing and we will accept no liability for any incorrect content within the magazine.

Black Cat Publishing Limited & National Weddings Magazine will not be held responsible or liable for a company’s product or service.

Should you receive an unacceptable service or you are unhappy with any product purchased from a company advertising in National Weddings Magazine then any complaint must be taken up with the offending company and not with Black Cat Publishing Ltd or National Weddings Magazine.

T: 01455 556957 | E: info@nwmag.co.uk | The Studio, 14A Spring Close, Lutterworth LE17 4DD www.nwmag.co.uk 3

He's popped the question...

Now you pop yours...

With these fabulous cards and countdown plaques & tote bags

Cards £1.50 each Countdown Plaques £5 each

'Days until we are Mr & Mrs'

COTTON CANVAS TOTE BAGS £3

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Countdown Plaques £8 each

GET PERSONAL

For Your Big Day

Fabulous gift ideas for you and your wedding party

HEN PARTY GIFTS

Personalised guest book frame £19.99

Drop Top Frame £23

GREAT GUEST BOOK IDEAS

Mr & Mrs personalised guest book £19.99 Great personalised ideas for your hen do, cocktail glass £14.99, tote bag £9.99 & velour slippers £8.99, perfect for a spa weekend.

Build A Memory Building blocks guest

Classic personalised

A TREAT FOR THE NEW MR & MRS...

guest book £19.99

Personalised mugs

book £18

£15.99

KEEP THE CHILDREN ENTERTAINED ON THE DAY Personalised Boys & Girls colouring books £8.99 each Personalised Wedding activity book £14.99 with personalised stickers throughout the book.

Pack of 12 personalised colouring pencils £7.99

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REAL LIFE Wedding Maddi & Jack 11th July 2015 Eynsham Hall THE PROPOSAL Jack proposed to me on December 23rd 2013 during a dog walk at the top of Wittenham Clumps in Oxfordshire. It's always been my favourite place as it reminds me of walks with my late grand parents. The proposal was a complete shock to me. It was pouring with rain and blowing a gale so there was nobody else around. Jack had a rugby injury at the time so when he got down on one knee I

Venue: Eynsham Hall

thought that he was stretching his leg and

www.eynshamhall.com

asked if he was ok!

Photographer: Rebecca Fulton

My dress was a Kenneth Winston gown from Love Bridal in London. My shoes were Roland Cartier. As a surprise Jack had arranged for our French Bulldog Frank to be with us.

Our theme was vintage/ shabby chic so we chose to go with pastel colours. One of my best friends from University made the cake.

The Sculpture Gallery

COMPETITION TIME...

For your chance to win a £100 voucher to spend at shop-4 answer the following question: Go to www.shop-4.co.uk and tell us what is coming soon.

PLEASE EMAIL YOUR ANSWERS TO

editor@nwmag.co.uk Terms & Conditions Prize consists of one voucher to the value of £100 to be spent at www.shop-4.co.uk. Plus 3 runners up will receive a 20% discount to spend at shop-4. Winners must be over 18 years of age. No cash alternative will be given. Multiple entries will not be counted.

The Sculpture Gallery

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WIN WIN WIN

WIN

A luxury 1-night stay at The Woburn Hotel Prize Includes • 1 night luxury stay at The Woburn Hotel • A bottle of Champagne upon arrival • A 3-course dinner at Olivier’s, the 2 AArosette restaurant located in the hotel.

• A full English breakfast • Tickets to visit Woburn Abbey and Gardens • Tickets to visit Woburn Safari Park

Set in the beautiful grounds of Woburn Abbey, The Sculpture Gallery, constructed

the terrace and rose garden also provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding

by Henry Holland during 1789 and

photographs.

1790 for the fifth Duke of Bedford as an

The AA 4-star Woburn Hotel stands

orangery, is one of the most majestic and beautiful settings imaginable for your wedding ceremony and reception, with exclusivity guaranteed.

Located just outside the Georgian village of Woburn in Bedfordshire, The Sculpture Gallery is less than an hour from London,

at the gateway to the historic Woburn Abbey Estate, home to the 15th Duke and Duchess of Bedford in the heart of Bedfordshire. The hotel provides a modern twist on a classic country house with 48 contemporary en-suite bedrooms and seven cottage suites, all inspired by the

Birmingham, Oxford and Cambridge, with

Estate and the historical figures linked to it.

easy access from Junction 13 of the M1.

As the hotel is an ideal spot to enjoy an

Both The Sculpture Gallery itself and the

indulgent leisure break and the perfect

adjoining Lantern Room are licensed for civil ceremonies and can host wedding receptions for seated parties of up to 250 guests. With its own private gardens overlooking the Camellia Lake, The Sculpture Gallery offers an elegant setting for your wedding day celebrations, whilst

base from which to explore The Woburn Estate, guests can enjoy concessionary rates to visit Woburn Abbey and Gardens, Woburn Safari Park or play a round of golf at Woburn Golf Club with its three championship courses.*

w w w .n w m a g .c o .u k

ENTER ONLINE AT:

& CLICK ON THE COMPETITIONS PAGE

Terms & Conditions Prize is based on two sharing a suite, valid from 31st March - l December 2017, excluding special event weekends and subject to availability. Entry to Woburn Abbey and Gardens is subject to opening times. (Visit woburnabbey.co.uk for 2017 information). Travel is not included. There is no cash alternative. *Woburn Golf Club requires a handicap certificate of 24 or less for men and 36 or less for women to play on one of its three championship courses. Woburn Golf Club rules and etiquette will apply. Winner must be over 18 years of age. Multiple entries will not be counted.

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ASK THE Experts

My wedding theme is very unusual, choosing my venue I need to keep this in mind. How do venues accommodate certain themes?

Do venues provide décor to suit themes?

At Wyboston Lakes we pride ourselves on providing not only a great location but a beautiful Bedfordshire wedding venue with a team of passionate and caring people dedicated to bringing your dream day to life.

That includes working with our couples to help bring their themes to life.

One of the best bits about our 3 wedding venues is that they offer a blank canvas in regards to décor so you can really make the space your own.

A great example was a wedding back in 2015 when we had a couple who transformed our Executive Centre for their ‘Besides the Seaside’ theme.

The rooms used for the ceremony and wedding breakfast were decorated with beautiful nautical themed bunting whilst seashells, blue tea lights and fresh wildflowers were used to create striking centrepieces and place cards were replaced by personalised sticks of rock.

The lounge was a harbour to a sailing yacht with deck chairs, paddling pool and sand pit in the courtyard for those wanting to build castles!

Will an artist perform a selection of songs of our choice?

Absolutely, yes. The most common answer you will get from an Alive Network band is “If we know it, we’ll play it for you!” If they don’t know your request, most artists will offer to learn a song or two for you – some as part of their fee, others for a small extra charge to cover rehearsal time. However there is one caveat… If they feel they can’t deliver a faithful performance of the track, they may decline – especially if it’s for the all-important first dance! If there’s a special song you know you want, always check with your agent or with the artist as early as possible, so the band have time to learn and rehearse it before performing it for you.

Help I don't know where to start with my table plan?

placed blue mason jars and hurricane lanterns with seashells and some rustic netting to complete a final effect that Poseidon would have been proud of.

As with most venues, it’s not possible to keep a supply of themed décor items as requirements can vary so much. On the run up to your special day we can store any items you need for your special day, then on your wedding day, our operational team are on hand to help set up the venue ready for your special day.

As part of our wedding packages we offer chair covers and we have a wide selection of sash colours so you are guaranteed to find one to match your theme.

For more information, please contact: Debbie Travers Celebrations & Events Manager, Wyboston Lakes 01480 223009 | www.wybostonlakes.co.uk

In terms of a set list, you should let the artist know anything you definitely do or don’t want. That way, they won’t feel tied to a list of songs when they know something else would fill the dancefloor better and keep it bouncing! These guys are the professionals and do this week in, week out. You can trust that they know what they’re doing and so you don’t need to be too rigid in your selections!

For more information, please contact Alive Network Entertainment Agency on T: 0845 108 5500 www.AliveNetwork.com

details are correct before going to print. RickyDicky

Check and check again if you have to, but ensure all always email across proofs to clients to ensure they are happy with everything, but remember that constant

least two weeks for this. RickyDicky print their seating

changes to the text will eat into your print time frame.

plans between one-to-two weeks prior to the big day

4. Design according to numbers.

delivery location), however design time needs to be booked in advance so it’s important for couples to also bear this in mind.

Sometimes you will have to make changes based on the number of people you have at your event. Though it’s always more visually pleasing to have names printed below table numbers or names, this is really

2. Think carefully about how you group people.

only practical for lower numbers. If for example you’re

very first time then think about your tables carefully

printed in alphabetical order to ensure people find their

It may sound obvious, but if you’re doing this for the

having over 500 guests you will need to have names

and how you’re grouping people. You might want to

seats quickly.

start off by age, relation, dietary requirements and

5. Think about the overall theme.

then go from there. It’s also important once you have your set groups that you send the information to the designer in a clear and concise manner, in numerical order leaving no room for error. At Carriages, we provide a full template (as part of our confirmation pack) for couples who have booked our Virtual or Diamond service. For further details click here.

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underwater feel. Around the bar area, the bride had

least four weeks prior to your wedding date, if not

to allow for any last minute changes (depending on

& RickyDicky Cards

from fish balloons and blue cellophane to create an

3. Make sure all information provided is correct.

You need to ensure all RSVPs have been returned at

tables is both hard and time consuming so allow at

blog.carriagesevents.co.uk/perfect-seating-plan

the dancefloor area along with arrangements made

1. Make sure you have all your guests’ names.

then you need to chase. Grouping people together on

Courtesy of Carriages, Weddings & Events Blog

For the evening blue uplighters were used around

We cannot stress the importance of having ‘matching’ stationery items. We say matching loosely as not everything has to be the exact same, but it should be within keeping of your theme. The best way to ensure it all looks good is to purchase it from one provider. All items should compliment each other.

FASHION & Jewellery

Mia Sposa Central London At Mia Sposa Central London we believe that every wedding is a special and unique occasion.

Our team of passionate & specialist advisers (Bridal & Menswear) will listen to you & help you to create your own unique and magical day. Mia Sposa offer a unique and enjoyable shopping experience from the initial one-to-one consultation appointment to making sure your outfit fits as it should be on your wedding day. www.miasposa-centrallondon.co.uk

Made to order bridal and occasion wear

Caroline Castigliano launches 2018 Collection Celebrating Romance

Filiz Derby dresses are vintage inspired, with an

Caroline Castigliano, the leader of luxury understated bridal wear launches

elegant, sophisticated and feminine style. The dresses

her latest stunning collection of gowns at The White Gallery. The understated, effortlessly glamorous style for which Caroline Castigliano is renowned, continues in the Celebrating Romance collection which was launched in May. The multi-faceted collection features timeless designs with ultra feminine twists, elevated textures and highly luxurious accents. There is a light airy feel throughout the collection, with a range of silhouettes from A-line, to circle skirts and fishtails, all creating beautiful movement and a powerful but understated vision. Stretch crepe, satin faced organza and unusual textured silks are key alongside intricate laces, from beaded to Guipure and soft Chantilly. The collection comes in a colour palette of ivory with soft water colours and hints of nude foundations.

provide comfort and beauty for brides and are made with fitted bodices in style and finished with a train or straight skirt. Hand finished trimmings are used around skirt hems, neck lines and sleeves.

The dress style shown is The Greta dress, made from heavy silk satin. The bodice of the skirt is fitted and overlaid with beautiful French Lace with a key hole neckline detail. The dress has pretty short sleeves with scallop trimming finish. The back of the dress has a zip fastening and nice train to complete a romantic look. For more information visit www.filizdarby.co.uk

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BRIDAL WEAR & JEWELLERY

www. nwm a g. co. u k Online Directory | Competitions | Shows & Fairs | Beauty Tips

Themes | Real Life Weddings | Hen & Stag Ideas | Online Shop

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GIFT

From the Groom BEST MAN FOR THE JOB

SAY THANK YOU PERSONALLY

New research from menswear retailer Jacamo, reveals that being a best man is equivalent to a full time job for Brits – with the average man spending on average 38 hours preparing for the big day - based on the national average wage of a professional, should they be being paid, this would equate to £303.57! Here's how they spend their time in preparation for the wedding: Cards £1.50 each

#1

www.shop-4.co.uk

Organising the stag party: 18 hours

#2

Attending suit fittings: 6 hours

#3

Preparing the Best Man's speech:

5 hours

Providing words of

#4

wisdom and reassurance to the

#5

groom: 3

Cufflinks £19.99 www.shop-4.co.uk

hours

Last minute organisational jobs: 2 hours

Hip Flask £19.99 www.shop-4.co.uk

Mug £9.99 www.shop-4.co.uk

With over nine year’s expertise in menswear fit and fashion, Jacamo, part of the N Brown Group, caters for 500,000 customers. They refuse to adopt a ‘one size fits all’ approach, instead focusing on clothes that fit and flatter, making shopping for fashion easy and enjoyable regardless of size or shape. Jacamo has collections in an extensive size range with clothing from S to 5XL and shoes from three to 16. www. jacamo.co.uk

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Wooden Wine Box £16.99 (not including wine) www.shop-4.co.uk

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WEDDING News

Imagine DIY

Imagine DIY are one of the top UK suppliers of DIY Wedding Stationery. We were very excited to find that they have just launched

Alive Network

a beautiful range of blank glitter invitation pockets. The glitter pockets are a perfect way to add a glamorous and sophisticated touch of sparkle to your day. Available in DL or Square sizes and in a choice of Gold, Silver or Rose Gold, they can be used on their own or embellished to your hearts content. Imagine DIY’s website is bursting with many more inspirational ideas and beautiful products to help you create your special day. Check out www.imaginediy.co.uk

Le Maitre Events Le Maitre Events can help add that extra special something to your day’s celebrations. Frame those magic moments with an extra wow factor. We provide pyrotechnics, table ice fountains, smoke, haze, flames, confetti, glitter or streamers. Ideal for arrival, cake cutting, toasts, first dance, dance floor, entrances and driveways. Tel: 020 8646 2222 events@lemaitreltd.com

Alive Network believe that live entertainment can transform your wedding into something unique and extraordinary, creating memories that will last you, your family and your friends a lifetime. Discover the definitive collection of hand-picked wedding bands and entertainers at AliveNetwork.com

Honeymoon Hot Air Balloon Ride

Newlyweds Deborah and Steve from Kent enjoyed a magical honeymoon balloon ride.

The couple flew in Scotland with Virgin Balloon Flights, enjoying breath-taking views over stunning countryside, topped off with Champagne on landing.

A balloon ride is the perfect addition to your wedding gift list.

Visit virginballoonflights.co.uk/ nationalweddingsmagazine or call 01952 212570.

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Wedding bells ringing, glasses bubbling The days are getting warmer, flowers are blossoming, and couples are planning their weddings.

Loire sparkling wine house, Bouvet Ladubay, are offering two premium quality Loire sparkling wines, Bouvet Saumur Brut NV and Bouvet Saumur Rosé Brut NV, at Majestic. They are summery, reasonably priced and a charming choice for wedding receptions. The sparkling wines are rich in colour, fruity, elegant and aromatic in profile; the Rosé Brut has a long=lasting aroma of raspberries, strawberries and herbs. They can easily be paired with salmon, cheese and pork.

Bouvet Ladubay, founded in 1851 and based in Saumur in the Loire Valley (France), prides itself in producing wines, which are of excellent quality – the fruit of five generations of family savoir-faire.

In the UK, its wines are listed in Majestic and Justerini & Brooks amongst others. The company produces a range of Loire sparkling wines including Saumur Brut, Crémant de Loire white and rosé, and special cuvées like the award winning Bouvet Trésor Saumur Brut Vintage aged in oak barrels or the Bouvet Island Antarctic Rich. For more information visit www.bouvet-ladubay.com

QHotels launches Wedding Photo Awards 2017 QHotels has launched its annual search for the UK’s best wedding photos, as the second Wedding Photo Awards opens for entries on Facebook and Instagram.

After receiving over 2,500 entries and votes in the first Wedding Photo Awards last year, QHotels is now calling for entries to the 2017 competition, which will celebrate the memorable moments captured at weddings, from the funny to the romantic.

Anyone in the UK can submit a photo - whether an experienced photographer or a guest at a wedding - by posting it on QHotels’ Facebook or Instagram page using the hashtag #WeddingPhotoAwards, along with the name of the category they wish to enter.

The winner of each category will receive a one-night break for two with dinner at one of QHotels’ 26 four-star hotels.

The 2017 Wedding Photo Award categories are: • Best ‘first look’ photo • Funniest wedding photo • Best ‘perfect kiss’ photo

Entries will close on 3rd July when QHotels’ expert wedding panel will announce the shortlist for each category, before going to a public vote on social media to decide the winner.

QHotels’ Director of Marketing, Claire Rowland, launched the awards, saying: “We were overwhelmed by the response to the Wedding Photo Awards last year, with a fantastic range of entries, from photo-bombed selfies to comically-staged group shots and black and white imagery.

“This year we’re expecting to see brides and grooms-tobe get even more creative due to the influence of social media channels such as Instagram and Pinterest, which they turn to for wedding photography inspiration. We hope to see more wonderful and unique photography choices in the 2017 awards.”

For more information about QHotels’ Wedding Photo Awards and how to enter, please visit: QHotels.co.uk/ weddings/WeddingPhotoAwards, Facebook.com/ QHotels or @QHotelsgroup on Instagram.

• Best ‘first dance’ photo • Best ‘themed wedding’ photo

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DATES FOR

Your Diary

Wedding Shows & Fairs are the perfect place to start planning your big day. From your wedding stationery to your venue and of course your dress you will find lots to inspire you. We have listed below this seasons must see wedding fairs and shows. For more details on individual shows please visit the organiser's website, where they will have times and entry fees to all the shows.

June

August

July

4th

2nd

The Wedding Experience Ashford International Hotel

The Wedding Experience Hilton Hotel, Maidstone

CJ Wedding Fayres Merthyr Tydfil Football Club, Merthyr The Manor, Crickhowell

PMN Wedding Fayres Coldeast Mansion

PMN Wedding Fayres The Langstone Hotel, Hayling Island

Central Exhibitions Milton Keynes Wedding Show, DoubleTree by Hilton

8th

3rd

Perfect Brides Nailcote Hall Hotel

Perfect Brides Brandon Hall, Coventry

11th

16th

CJ Wedding Fayres Coldra Court Hotel by Celtic Manor, Newport

PMN Wedding Fayres Three Choirs Vineyard Botley Hampshire

PMN Wedding Fayres The Grand, Brighton

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CJ Wedding Fayres The Manor Crickhowell, Wedding Fayre/Summer Party

20th CJ Wedding Fayres St Mellons Golf Club, St Mellons, Cardiff CJ Wedding Fayres Mercure Hotel, Swansea

rd

18th

6th

CJ Wedding Fayres St Mellons Hotel and Spa, Cardiff

CJ Wedding Fayres, Holiday Inn, Newport Parc y Scarlets, Llanelli

28th The Wedding Experience Hilton Hotel, Maidstone

September 3rd The Wedding Experience The Coniston Hotel, Sittingbourne Berkshire Wedding Fairs Crowne Plaza Reading, Berkshire

3rd CJ Wedding Fayres Maes Manor Country Hotel, Blackwood CJ Wedding Fayres Village Hotel, Cardiff CJ Wedding Fayres Llangoed Hall, Brecon

10th Captivating Events The Middlesex & Buckinghamshire Wedding Show, Bucks Perfect Brides Ansty Hall Hotel Perfect Brides Nailcote Hall Hotel The Wedding Experience St George's Centre, Chatham PMN Wedding Fayres The Solent Hotel & Spa CJ Wedding Fayres Towers Hotel and Spa, Swansea CJ Wedding Fayres Coldra Court Hotel by Celtic Manor, Newport CJ Wedding Fayres Holiday Inn, Cardiff North, Tongwynlais

Captivating Events The Donnington Grove Newbury Wedding Show, Newbury

For more details and links to all the wedding show organisers please visit: www.nwmag.co.uk

www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk t: 0844 874 0486

www.cjweddingfayres.co.uk info@cjweddingfayres.co.uk t: 01443 410565

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www.berkshireweddingfairs.co.uk info@berkshireweddingfairs.co.uk m: 07708 249 440 | m: 07990 711 444 All shows free admission Open from 11am – 3pm

www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk info@pmnweddingfayres.co.uk t: 01329 227437 m: 07816 911310

www.captivatingevents.co.uk gill@captivatingevents.co.uk m: 07825 156716

THE Best Fayres in THE Best Venues! www.theweddingfayre.net Facebook/theweddingfayre t: 01787 269030

www.wedding-experience.co.uk

www.perfectbrides.co.uk info@perfectbrides.co.uk m: 07912 435570

.uk

eddingshow.co

www.nationalw

Berkshire Wedding Fairs The Hampshire Court Hotel, Chineham THE Wedding Fayre...!

Trinity Park, Ipswich, Suffolk

17

&18

th

County Brides Love Wedding Show, Newcastle Mercury Events ExCeL Wedding Fair, London

17

th

Captivating Events The Buckinghamshire Wedding Show, The Pinewood Hotel, Bucks THE Wedding Fayre...!

The Pinewood Hotel, Bucks Perfect Brides Brandon Hall, Coventry PMN Wedding Fayres Old Thorns Manor Hotel Liphook Hampshire Berkshire Wedding Fairs Trunkwell House Hotel, Reading Cupids Wedding Show Spalding, Lincolnshire Berkshire Wedding Fairs Trunkwell House Hotel, Reading Little White Books Great Northern Wedding Show, Bolton CJ Wedding Fayres Cottrell Park, St Nicholas

.uk

gshow.co

nalweddin

www.natio

22nd - 24th

10th

th

www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk

The National Wedding Show Olympia, London

23rd & 24th North West Wedding Fair EventCity, Manchester

24th CJ Wedding Fayres Copthorne Hotel, Cardiff CJ Wedding Fayres Glyn Clydach, Neath Berkshire Wedding Fairs Cantley House Hotel, Wokingham, Berkshire PMN Wedding Fayres Portsmouth Guildhall World Bridal Events Yorkshire World Bridal Event, Regency Hall, Bradford The Wedding Experience Royal Wells Hotel, Tunbridge Wells Central Exhibitions Aylesbury Wedding Show, Aylesbury Gateway THE Wedding Fayre...!

The MacDonald Compleat Angler Hotel, Marlow, Bucks Perfect Brides Welcombe Hotel, Stratford Captivating Events The Macdonald Compleat Angler Wedding Show, Bucks Mercury Events ExCeL Wedding Fair, London The Wedding Show Archant Bride, Dunston Hall, Norwich

www.berk

shirewed

com

ingfairs.

mwedd

ww.drea co.ukw

dingfairs.

www.wedding-experience.co.uk

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WEDDING SERVICES

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WEDDING SERVICES

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VENUE Guide

Altonwood Group - The ideal setting for your special day Three contemporary venues offer private bar and lounge areas, wooden sprung dance floors, air conditioning, open fireplaces and balconies with panoramic views across our beautiful courses, their lakes and fountains. With a reputation for excellent cuisine and first class service and with access to endless photo opportunities, Altonwood venues provide the perfect setting for your special day. www.altonwoodgroup.co.uk

The Isla Gladstone

The Isla Gladstone Conservatory is a breath taking venue placed at the heart of the recently restored Stanley Park. Winter, spring, summer or autumn, midday through to midnight, this enchanting space provides the perfect setting for your dream wedding. Our dedicated and award-winning Events Team are on hand to expertly guide you through your wedding planning journey. www.theislagladstone.co.uk

Paradise Wildlife Park Have your wedding in Paradise against the breath-taking backdrop of our amazing wildlife park. Why not say your vows in the open air of our Secret Garden or on the animal park overlooking our Tigers. Your ceremony will be both magical and memorable. We will create a special day tailored to you.

What better place to entertain your guest than a fully-fledged well renowned zoo? On the day, you and your loved ones will be able to explore our entire complex with over 400 animals including; tigers, lions, snow leopards, alligators, penguins, wolves, gibbons, meerkats and many more. For further information, prices and availability please contact us: T: 07775 806085 E: rachael@pwpark.com

The Sculpture Gallery, Woburn Abbey Set in the beautiful grounds of Woburn Abbey, The Sculpture Gallery, constructed during 1789 and 1790 for the fifth Duke of Bedford with its own private rose garden and lake is one of the most majestic and elegant settings imaginable for wedding ceremonies and receptions up to 250 guests with exclusive use of the venue. The Sculpture Gallery provides the perfect backdrop to create those all-important special memories. sales@woburn.co.uk 01525 292172 www.woburnweddings.com

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YOUR WEDDING With Milsom Hotels

Le Talbooth restaurant in Dedham is one of the leading wedding venues in East Anglia, offering a fabulous location on the banks of the river Stour in Dedham. The event team have a wealth of experience when it comes to helping you plan your perfect wedding, allowing the bridal party to relax and enjoy their day.

Le Talbooth can offer three different options - the Weavers Room for the smaller more intimate wedding, the River Room which is adjacent to the river while the Marquee on the upper terrace can accommodate larger parties and is perfect for a summer wedding.

To complete the Dedham picture, Maison Talbooth a country house hotel is just a minute away by courtesy car from the restaurant holds a civil wedding license for up to 50 guests. The hotel has 12 superb bedrooms, a day spa, outdoor pool and pool house as well as specialising in house parties allowing couples to take over the whole hotel for a day or two.

These three venues are very different in style and character but they all offer the very best in food, service and hospitality making a wedding day to be treasured and remembered.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit www.milsomhotels.com Maison Talbooth

Maison Talbooth, Stratford Rd, Dedham, Colchester CO7 6HN Milsoms Hotel and Restaurant

Over the border in Suffolk; The Hangar at Milsoms Kesgrave Hall is a truly

Kesgrave Hall Hotel

walls, accented with fabulous mood lighting and star cloth ceiling, The Hangar has

Stratford Road Dedham, Colchester CO7 6HW

spectacular and stylish setting for your wedding day. With elegant silk decor draped

Hall Road, Kesgrave, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP5 2PU

a total capacity for up to 300 wedding guests and also holds a civil wedding licence,

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so there’s no need to go elsewhere for your ceremony.

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VENUES

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REGIONAL GUIDE

Midlands, Wales & East of England Keylight Photography Jack Ford & Rachel Hughes tied the knot at St Mary's Church and Curradine Barns in Shrawley, Worcestershire on the 22nd October 2016 in lovely autumn weather and a surprising amount of sun for that time of year. Their Reception at the Barns was a traditional / vintage theme. Taken by Jonathon Dow LMPA DipPP Master Photographer and owner of Keylight Photography. Jonathon has covered well over 1200 Weddings since 1997 and celebrates his 20-Year anniversary of the first one on the 17th May 2017. www.keylightphotography.co.uk | Tamworth, Warwickshire

BeWILDerwood BeWILDerwood is a wild and imaginative adventure park in the heart of Norfolk. With magical treehouses and a hint of intriguing characters, Bewilderwood is a wonderful, mystical land of brave, adventurous creatures who you may never see anywhere else in our world. Created from the setting for the

walks. However, if you think this park is just for kids then think again. I visited BeWILDerwood with my Husband, our friends and 3 kids. We travelled across the Scaaaaaary Lake, past the Boggle Village, over the Broken Bride and across the Sky Maze….. take it from me, it was so much fun

book, 'A Boggle at BeWILDerwood' by local

for both the adults and the kids alike.

children's author Tom Blofeld, Parents are

This award-winning outdoor adventure

encouraged to play alongside their children, which makes for a fabulous and brilliantly exciting day out for the whole family.

A forest of family fun and outdoor adventure, visitors can enjoy treehouses, zip wires, jungle bridges, Crocklebogs, Twiggles and

centre welcomed its first Hen party in June.

If it’s a family ‘STEN’, Hen or Stag weekend your looking for then Bewilderwood is a must as every member of the bridal party will find themselves indulging in some fun. www.bewilderwood.co.uk | Hoveton, Norfolk

Boggles, storytelling, boat trips and marsh

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THE MIDLANDS

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SOUTH WALES

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A HEN PARTY To remember!

Hen and Stag nights may fill some people with abject dread, envisioning a night of clichéd debauchery and bad decisions.

For those who would rather marvel over the chiselled physique of a Grecian torso than carouse the city streets, wielding willy whistles, THATMuse’s bespoke museum treasure hunts promise an outing of informed

themselves with the treasures from their clue list. Treasure hunters can book the ‘Love Hunt’, or the 'Lady Hunt' and both will be filled with curious artefacts and amorous tales (of varying degrees of naughtiness!) Both hunts can also be customised: THATMuse can include include embarrassing questions about the questionable past antics of the bride or

silliness.

groom within the clue text.

Personalised hunts take place at the British

For more information visit www.thatmuse.com

Museum in London or, for festivities further afield, at the Louvre in Paris. The fun-filled hunts bring a healthy dose of competitive energy to any party plans. As revellers explore the museum, they scout out and photograph

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REGIONAL GUIDE

London & Southern Counties

Weddings at the Lansdowne Club Located in the heart of Mayfair, the Lansdowne Club is situated in the original Lansdowne House, designed by Robert Adam in 1762. With its unique combination of eighteenth century and Art Deco architecture, the Lansdowne Club offers you the perfect setting for an unforgettable wedding day, the memory of which will stay with you and your guests forever. www.lansdowneclub.com | Mayfair, London

Breathtakingly different…….

Exclusively yours Bradbourne House is a breathtakingly beautiful venue, available for Weddings and Private Events. A venue with charm and elegance, exquisite cuisine, true quality of service and attention to detail. Our stunning wedding venue in Kent is set in 20 acres of beautiful parkland complete with a lake, waterfalls and ancient trees, a perfect backdrop for photographs. The Grade I listed house was originally built in Tudor times, a historic venue for a day of elegance and splendor. To discover more please call 01732 897436 or visit our website www.bradbournehouseweddings.co.uk | East Malling, Kent.

Stunning Bridal Corsetry Visit our beautiful Bridal Suite situated in our award nominated store & on our website. We

ONE WHITEHALL PLACE

stock a wide range of stunning bridal corsetry, lingerie & accessories. We also stock all you'll

An elegant Grade 1 Listed wedding venue, beautifully positioned on the

need to ensure a memorable wedding night or honeymoon! We fit & style your look perfectly to your needs, with accessories & even hair & makeup in our Parisian inspired in-store beauty salon. What could make your day any more perfect? www.vibezadultboutique.co.uk | Aylesford, Kent

Victoria Embankment and boasting stunning views over the River Thames and London Eye. We have delicately devised a selection of wedding packages, we’re very happy to personalise these to your preferred taste. It will be our pleasure to meet with you to show you our Venue personally and discuss in greater details your plans and ideas for your Special Day. Tel 0207 451 9386 www.onewhitehallplace.com | Whitehall Court, London

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Eynsham Hall Eynsham Hall is a stunning wedding venue with oak panelled walls, large arched windows to view the romantic gardens and an elegant Jacobean staircase. Rooms are individually styled, providing a whimsical blend of elegant period features with a twist of modernity. The hotel Brasserie serves some exquisite seasonal British dishes. www.eynshamhall.com | Witney, Oxfordshire

Watford Colosseum

Whether it’s an intimate gathering of family and friends with canapes and champagne in the beautiful art-deco Forum or a formal dinner in the flexible space of the auditorium - we will create a once in a lifetime experience for you. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk | Watford

Meon Valley Marriott Hotel & Country Club At Meon Valley Marriott Hotel & Country Club we’ll ensure your wedding is just how you dream it will be. Throughout your celebrations our wedding team will be at your side, making sure your day is magical. From your ‘I do’, to your first dance, our attentive team of hosts will ensure your day is as individual and as special as you. www.MarriottWeddings.co.uk/MeonValley | Shedfield, Southampton

Joe's Bows Want something exciting or unique to wow the guests at your wedding? Or have an interesting and exciting activity for your guests? Want owls to be your ring bearers? Or maybe have your pictures with our wonderful birds? We can bring our range of Hawks, Owls, Buzzards and Kestrels to your big day!

Our wonderful Falconry Experience is a hand on, fun and enjoyable for all ages. We can offer a display whilst your guests are enjoying pre-dinner drinks or during the photographs to keep your guests entertained. They can also be a part of your photos for those magical memories of your big day! www.joesbows.co.uk | Faversham, Kent

WURZELL WEDDINGS VENUE....

Wurzell Weddings, a spectacularly, stunning location in the South Hams, on the peninsula of the River Yealm. A field venue, with plenty of open space and Moor to Sea views, you can create the day of your dreams with this blank canvas, we can help with everything for your day. www.wurzellweddings.co.uk | Devon

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REGIONAL GUIDE

Scotland & The North

Belles of Harrogate ‘Laughter is the brightest where the food is the best’ Leeds based Juste Nous Catering have over a decade and a half years’ worth of experience under their belt and have been providing catering services to any given location and celebration across the North for over 23 years. With a strong team of passionate and talented individuals this is what they do, and they do it well.

The Perfect Venue For Your Perfect Day

From the first meeting through to the final dance, they have every logistic covered. They can provide, Linen, BBQ’s, Chocolate Fountains, A Horse Box Bar and even Dry Ice Decorations if this is what you require. Get in touch and let them take the reign’s.. www.justenous.co.uk | Leeds

With a variety of decadent function suites, magnificent grounds and spa facilities and an expert wedding team, we will ensure that every detail of the best day of your life runs smoothly and your dream wedding becomes a reality. www.athollpalace.com | Perthshire, Scotland

Hartford Golf Club SCOTTISH WEDDING CEREMONY

Scotland is a fantastic place to get married. You have complete flexibility and choice about where and when and how to be legally married - what type of wedding

Hartford Golf Club is set in the heart of Cheshire. Contemporary and Stylish it makes the perfect setting for your wedding day and with the stunning golf course as a backdrop for photographs your day can be as unique as you are.

With an excellent and friendly Wedding and Catering team, you are

ceremony to have and which amazing location to select. Jane Patmore and Angie

guaranteed to get the best service possible.

Alexandra are celebrants holding legal ceremonies which are completely personalised

Hartford Golf Course truly does offer a gem of a venue for your BIG DAY.

and which can be non-religious or religious. They will guide you through the process and work with you to create a wonderful ceremony. www.gettingmarriedinscotland.org | Scotland

Contact us for more details 01606 871162 weddings@hartfordgolf.co.uk www.hartfordgolf.co.uk | Northwich, Cheshire

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ALNWICK CASTLE Launches new venue Friars Well, an exquisite, private country house located in idyllic Hulne Park near Alnwick, Northumberland, has opened its doors for the first time as a very special, new wedding venue.

This magical house and its grounds within Alnwick Castle Estate will now be added to 13th century Hulne Abbey and majestic Alnwick Castle itself as a unique and distinctive marriage location. All three of these idyllic wedding venues hold marriage licences and couples can mix their celebrations between all three locations if they wish.

For more information visit https://www.alnwickcastle. com/events/weddings and scroll down to Friars Well or call Fiona on 01665 511086

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DESTINATION WEDDINGS Fall in love with Fiji Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, the perfect backdrop to your wedding, shouting about your love once more with a vow renewal, or simply a honeymoon to make you swoon, it’s easy to fall in love with the islands of Fiji.

Set in the South Pacific and blessed with approximately 333 beautiful islands, of which only a handful are inhabited, Fiji is most certainly going to cast a love spell on your heart. With white sandy beaches, tropical sunsets and deep azure oceans to gaze out across, Fiji provides an idyllic atmosphere to reconnect with the one you love and switch off from the world.

The perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway, Fiji appeals greatly to couples looking to exchange vows or embark on their honeymoon. From being serenaded on arrival by a traditional Fijian band and conch shell blowers, award winning spa treatments and candlelit dinners on the shores edge, Fijians are masters at

“Fiji is the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway, whether you’re looking to exchange or renew your vows or simply get some much needed quality alone time. From being serenaded on arrival by a traditional Fijian band and conch shell blowers, award winning spa treatments and candlelit dinners on the beach, Fijians are masters at adding a sprinkling of magic to your vacation.

“What’s more, for those keen on some adventure there’s an endless array of activities to choose from – such as surfing the world famous Cloud Break, trekking the wilderness or embarking on a rugged off road adventure – ensuring you’ll have fun whatever pace you enjoy.”

adding a sprinkling of magic to your vacation.

Jane West from Tourism Fiji says:

Tokoriki Island Resort For those looking for a little luxury, Tokoriki Island Resort is the ideal romantic hideaway for a holiday of relaxation. An adult’s only resort and situated in the Mamanuca group of Fijian islands, Tokoriki has been named the #1 hotel in Fiji for romance in the 2017 Trip Advisor Awards. What better place to celebrate your love, or even pop the question?

A boutique resort consisting of 12 beachfront bures, 14 beachfront pool bures and 10 sunset pool villas, Tokoriki offers packages for weddings, honeymoons and soon-to-be-newlyweds can choose a relaxed barefoot beach wedding, or a traditional ceremony at the onsite chapel.

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The Intercontinental For soon-to-be-married couples pursuing a traditional chapel wedding, the Intercontinental in Natadola offers guests who were unable to join the opportunity to still be a part of the couple’s special day, via a live webcam.

Perfect for those with large families.

Viwa Island Resort If you’re looking for romance on a budget, the Viwa Island Resort is a small boutique resort, located in the Yasawa Island Group. Offering just 11 bures at affordable prices, guests are surrounded by a colourful coral reef teeming with life and the sound of singing tropical birds is the perfect spot for every love bird to hide away for a spot of intimacy and indulgence. The resort not only offers a Bula Bar and fine dining, using fresh ingredients daily from the resort garden, but for those looking in need of adventure, the Viwa Island also offers diving and game fishing excursions.

Tropica Island Resort Nestled into Na Toba o Lakalaka, a private sheltered bay on the beautiful island of Malolo lies the four star retreat of Tropica Island Resort. A unique tropical oasis that embraces romance, Tropica Island Resort is surrounded by palm-tree lined beaches. The connoisseur of romance, guests can choose from a beachfront suite, bure or resort room to unwind in before they head to the onsite spa for a couples massage, or after spending the day in the sunshine in a hammock under a swaying coconut tree.

More information & Special offers For those on their honeymoon and staying for a minimum of four nights, newlyweds will receive a complimentary spa treatment per person, a bottle of sparkling wine and his and hers Tropica sulu (sarong).

Fiji also has plenty to offer those seeking a post-wedding thrill. Several wedding packages in Fiji include day-trips and excursions such as diving at Dolphin Bay and jet boating adventures.

Now easier than ever to reach, Fiji Airways provides flights from Singapore and San Francisco to Fiji. Fiji Airways also connects with flights from Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii and Los Angeles, so holidaymakers from the UK will need to change at one of these destinations. Korean Air also offers some fantastic rates via Dubai, Sydney, and LA. For more information on Fiji please visit www.fiji.travel

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Brides In France Here at Brides in France we worked with some of our top wedding suppliers to create an exclusive styled shoot. Our aim was to capture luxury high end, eco–friendly, same sex and interracial weddings to offer a different example of some weddings today.

We collaborated with some of London’s high end Lux designers using eco sustainable materials and used different dresses and tom boy looks for same sex couples, interracial couples and your classic beach boho look.

Alexandria Hall one of our top London based photographers kindly flew in for this shoot bringing with her these seasons’ latest designs from SANYUKTA www.sanyuktashrestha.com who specialises in ethical bespoke designs.

Eco bespoke designer LUCY TAMMAN from www.tamman.co.uk

This photoshoot was something I’ve been wanting to capture for so long, integrating subjects that were passionate to me, like the ability to elope and not worry about the Our shoot was taken at the renowned eco-friendly exquisite Villa La Tosca in South West France set in one of the most organic surroundings and breath- taking picturesque beaches in Arcachon, just South of Bordeaux.

On a warm Octobers day we were joined by International Hair and Make-up Team www.emmalouisehairstylist.com and www.clairejonesmakeupartist.com Superb autumn flower bouquets by Lisa Gatenby of www.frenchflowerstyle.com Hair accessories by www.romeoandjoolz.co.uk Added extras from www.victoriafergusson.co.uk with her beautiful new range of handcrafted accessories.

Plus a vintage elegant touch from Catherine Deane at www.catherinedeane.co.uk We also showcased some stunning honeymoon Lingerie from Pompadour Couture Lingerie www.pompadourlingerie.co.uk Models: Marielle Vanoverfeld, Levi Jones, Megan Convery and Kelly Millard www.bridesinfrance.com www.samesexweddingsinfrance.com

confinements of what is expected in the wedding industry for a bride and groom now, how simple yet utterly romantic this idea of eloping could be and is for so many. This is what drove me to want to showcase how a marriage can be just about you two. I also learned that elopement was really popular for many interracial & same sex couples but I'd never really seen much of it in the wedding industry, so I wanted to highlight this too. Lastly, wearing something on that special day that didn't make you wonder how it was made and at what cost to people, animals and the planet. Was it possible to wear something luxurious and beautiful yet still be sustainable and organic?

Then Emma told me about a wonderful new venue that she had found that was Eco, and everything fell into place beautifully - especially as by this point, I had discovered some exceptional women wedding designers who were championing sustainable, organic, luxurious wedding dresses, accessory designers who made things ethically by hand or up cycled, and also designers who catered for us tomboys who love beautifully tailored pieces and simplicity rather than tulle and sequins or lace. I hope you like the photos as much as we enjoyed taking them.

Alexandria Hall Wedding Photography www.weddingphotography-ah.com Brides in France Director Emma Willett

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DESTINATION WEDDINGS

Fall in love with The Islands Of The Bahamas Fall in love with The Islands Of The Bahamas. With 16 main islands to choose from and hundreds more islands, islets and cays, there’s no shortage of special locations for your wedding and honeymoon.

Wander hand in hand along miles of pink sandy beach on one of the Out Islands, like Eleuthera, before retreating to an exquisite waterside cottage. For more glamour check into one of the luxurious resorts on

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the capital Nassau, nearby Paradise Island or Grand Bahama Island. With some of the world’s most glamorous casinos, restaurants and spas, you can live the high life by the beach.

See bahamas.co.uk/weddinghoneymoonpackages for wedding and honeymoon ideas and planning suggestions.

Romantic Blessings on the Costa del Sol, Spain The Wedding team at the 4* Sunset Beach Club are here to help organize every detail of your wedding, and make sure that everything runs smoothly on your Special Day. Their complete Wedding Packages start from just 5,500€ (approx. £4,800) for 40 persons, and include the ceremony itself, bridal flowers, hair & make-up, welcome reception with canapés, photographer, 3 course dinner with free-flowing wine, Spanish wedding cake, DJ, cava for the speeches, and everything in between! To find out more or for a tailor-made quote, visit the Wedding pages of their website www.sunsetbeachclub.com or email weddings@sunsetbeachclub.com

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HONEYMOON Essentials

OLIVIA OMBRE CATEYE SUNGLASSES £12 ACCESSORIZE

TORTOISESHELL CATEYE SUNGLASSES £12.99 TKMAXX CATEYE SUNGLASSES £12 NEXT FLAMINGO USB CHARGER £9.95 DOTCOMGIFTSHOP THE ALTERNATIVE BEACH TOWEL £55 AMARA LUGGAGE STRAPS £2 TIGER STORES WATERPROOF PHONE CASE £2 TIGER STORES HIS & HERS LUGGAGE TAGS £14.99 GETTINGPERSONAL

RAFIA BAG £22.99 BON PRIX

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BEACH BAG £39.50 MARKS & SPENCER

BEACH BAG £30 VERY

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