WELCOME
… and congratulations on your engagement.
You’re now about to embark on one of the most exciting adventures of all; marriage – and where better to exchange your vows and celebrate with family and friends than magnificent Lumley Castle. Our fairy tale venue has everything you need to create the wedding of your dreams, from staircases just made for brides to sweep down, to elegant rooms which glitter with the light of dazzling chandeliers. From stunning grounds – the perfect backdrop to your wedding photos - to sumptuous bedrooms where you can kick off your heels and relive every moment of your special day. At Lumley Castle we believe that every wedding should be wonderful, special and unique, so please call us on 0191 389 1111 or email weddings@lumleycastle.com We look forward to meeting you. Ed Stephenson Director of Operations
Publisher & Advertising
Sue Riney-Smith, Riney Publishing Limited Tel: 01325 304360 Email: sue@rineypublishing.co.uk
Editorial
Bronia McGregor and Emma Walker. (Sorted PR).
CONTENTS
4-5 Making history
6-7 A place to dream
The rich history of our castle A fantastic place to spend your first night as a married couple
9 Serving up a private feast
Wine and dine in style
10-11 Adding a special touch
All the little details to truly personalise your big day
15 Meet the team
The people who will help you create your dream wedding
16-19 Dress to impress
Feel like a princess on your special day
21 Picture perfect
23 Let them eat cake
25 Real life weddings
27 Blooming lovely
Secure the perfect photos for your wedding album For the sweetest of wedding centrepieces Meet our real life wedding couple Choose the perfect petals to complement the day
28-29 Your Fairy Godmother
Browse our extensive wedding packages
30 Lift the curse from Lily
With a game to set pulses racing
Lumley Contact
Front cover image supplied courtesy of Fyzal Photography www.fyzal.com
Email: lauren.colledge@lumleycastle.com
The publishers cannot accept liability for mistakes or misprints or views expressed within advertising submissions.
Lauren Colledge, Sales Manager Tel: 0191 389 1111 Lumley Castle Hotel, Chester le Street, Co. Durham, DH3 4NX, Email: weddings@lumleycastle.com Web: www.lumleycastle.com
www.lumleycastle.com
3
MAKING HISTORY
L Image supplied by www.chriswrightphotography.co.uk
umley Castle is a stunning venue which is not only popular for its regal quality and picturesque setting but also its rich history, which spans more than 600 years…
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Nestled in the County Durham landscape in nine acres of woodland and overlooking the River Wear, the building provides a picture-perfect backdrop whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or an extravagant do. The halls of the castle hold many stories and tales of the people who have passed through the property over the centuries, making it the ideal place for you to add your own piece of history into Lumley Castle should you choose it as the location to tie the knot.
www.lumleycastle.com
The castle takes its name from its original owner in the fourteenth century, Sir Ralph Lumley. A respected nobleman and courageous soldier, Ralph Lumley was well-known for his involvement in several key battles, playing a prominent role in the defence of Berwick-upon-Tweed and leading the attack at the Battle of Otterburn in 1388. However, it was at this battle that he was captured by the Scots and imprisoned for a year until his release in 1389. After this, Ralph Lumley petitioned the Bishop of
Durham for permission to convert
his family’s manor house and create the building we know as Lumley Castle today.
Ralph Lumley’s success was
short lived as he found himself
incarcerated once more in 1400
with his son Thomas, for their role
in the Epiphany Uprising - the plot to overthrow Henry IV and restore Richard II.
As a result of this they were
both stripped of their titles and
executed, at which time Lumley
Castle was forfeited to the Earl of Somerset.
Tragically, Ralph Lumley’s wife –
Lady Lily Lumley – also met an ill-
fated end when she was murdered by local priests for rejecting the Catholic faith.
The castle remained under the Earl’s ownership until his death in 1421 but as a result of the Earl leaving behind no heirs, the castle was returned to the Lumley family by Elizabethan law and ownership was restored to Ralph’s grandson, Thomas. Following in his grandfather’s footsteps, Thomas Lumley proved himself to be a gallant and noble soldier on the battlefield, playing important roles in key battles such as the War of the Roses and the successful siege of Bamburgh Castle. Seeming to have shaken off his family’s bad luck, Thomas found himself appointed Constable of Scarborough Castle for life in 1461 - the same year his family’s peerage was restored. Having spent many years fighting valiant battles, Thomas Lumley lived until 1485 at which point his son, George, succeeded him and there began 400 years of stability at Lumley. The family continued to play a prominent role in court and society, influencing the people
of Chester-leStreet well into the nineteenth century. All who spent time living in the property put their own modifications and decor into Lumley Castle, much of which can still be seen and admired in the unique venue today. A truly charming setting for your marriage ceremony or wedding reception, the majestic turrets, decadent rooms and regal decor will ensure that you and your guests experience a very special day you will never forget. No matter if the decision is to hold an intimate ceremony for selected loved ones or an extravagant celebration for many, Lumley Castle will provide the perfect backdrop for you and your partner to begin the first day of the rest of your lives. And with an expert team of wedding coordinators standing by, you can rest assured that your every need will be taken care of and all measures will be taken to
ensure that we are able to deliver on every aspect of your big day. So whether the guest list is as large at 150 or as few as 2, when it comes to transforming our selection of rooms into the setting you have always dreamed of, the options are endless. From the ornate four poster bed you wake up in, to the glittering chandelier overhead as you exchange your vows and the fireworks exploding over the elegant silhouette of the building, Lumley Castle will provide you and your guests with a magical day you will remember forever.
Bottom image supplied by www.fyzal.com
Her body was then thrown down a well at Lumley Castle, which still stands on the grounds to this day. It is thought that her ghost still haunts the halls of her former home.
www.lumleycastle.com
5
A PLACE TO
Image supplied by www.alangibsonphotography.co.uk
DREAM...
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hether you want to rise at Lumley Castle on the morning of your wedding, or want to spend your first night of married life in our opulent bridal suite, we have it all here – and more besides‌
www.lumleycastle.com
Image supplied by www.chriswrightphotography.co.uk
THERE’S nothing quite like a good night’s sleep, and whether you wish to wake up in style on your wedding morning, or enjoy your first night of married life in exquisite elegance, you’ll find it all at Lumley Castle. With 73 unique and individual bedrooms – some even featuring our signature secret bathrooms – you’ll discover that practical meets the unusual as the past meets the present.
Thanks to the unique nature of Lumley Castle, we offer a selection of rooms quite unlike any you will find anywhere else, and many offer stunning views across the estate and beyond. Rooms inside the main castle are packed with surprises. All uniquely designed, many feature ornately carved four-poster beds and some feature other little surprises. Bathrooms are often hidden behind wardrobe doors or bookcases, adding a touch of fun and magic to your stay, and guaranteeing a night you will remember for many years to come. At Lumley, we offer everything you need for the perfect night, be that
your final one spent as a singleton, or the start to your married life.
offer stylish accommodation with modern amenities.
Our bridal suite, the magnificent King James Suite, is perhaps the jewel in our crown and offers an experience like no other.
The decor perfectly complements Lumley Castle’s mix of ancient history and modern luxury, with all rooms enjoying flat screen TVs and complimentary internet access, along with snug, comfortable beds to guarantee you and your guests the perfect night’s sleep.
Formerly the castle’s chapel, it boasts a 20ft high four-poster Queen Anne bed, draped in ruby damask which beautifully complements the brass and ivory light fittings. It also features its own reception room and lounge area, a jet bath and full en-suite facilities along with unrivalled views across the surrounding parkland, and is a firm favourite among honeymooners and those seeking a truly romantic, relaxing escape. Away from the main castle keep are the charming courtyard rooms. These have been expertly converted from what was once the castle’s stable block, and now
With such a choice of rooms available, Lumley offers the perfect getaway for your guests too, giving them the option of partying the night away and then retiring to a comfortable and luxurious bed in a room unlike any they’ve probably seen before. So, whether you’re looking for a place to spend your final night before you say ‘I do’, the first of your married life together – or both – you can be assured you will find everything you could possibly desire here at Lumley Castle.
Image supplied by www.alangibsonphotography.co.uk
Whether you decide to stay in the castle itself, or opt for one of its elegant courtyard rooms that lie discreetly tucked away in its shadow, you can be assured of comfort, luxury and an experience you will never forget.
www.lumleycastle.com
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W
ant to entertain your guests in your own private dining room? Fear not, we have it covered…
WHEN it comes to dining, there’s nothing quite like taking your place in your own private dining room to enjoy a lavish feast with your special guests.
We Cook, You Carve is our unique private dining option, where you can enjoy a succulent roast of your choice in the comfort of your own private dining room.
And as hosting dinner the night before your wedding is becoming more and more popular, here at Lumley we pull out all the stops to make your event almost as memorable as the big day itself.
Give your guests the perfect start to the night with a welcome drink on arrival, before you enjoy an antipasto sharing board with fresh bread.
We have two smaller dining rooms for those who want to host a special party or event in the privacy of their own exclusive space.
Then it’s on to a roast of your choice with all of the trimmings. This is served on a carving board ready for
Our succulent roasts are served with a selection of traditional accompaniments, including Yorkshire Pudding, seasonal vegetables, roast potatoes and gravy, all of which are delivered to your dining room for guests to serve themselves. Private carveries are available for groups of more than six adults. We aim to deliver a dining experience which is like no other, and because we know no two guests are the same, we aim to cater for all needs.
Main image supplied by www.chriswrightphotography.co.uk
SERVING UP A PRIVATE FEAST…
the host to carve at the table – and we even provide chef’s hat and apron for the full effect.
Whatever your event, whatever you require, here at Lumley Castle we know we can offer a unique experience which you and your guests will never forget.
And because it’s Lumley, you can rest assured you’ll enjoy a unique room with exciting features, certain to impress all of your guests. The Gilt is the larger of the two, offering fine dining for up to 20 people in a stunning, candlelit room while The Sceptre offers very similar surroundings for up to 12 guests. We know that not everyone wants the same thing, which is why we also offer our exciting private carvery option.
www.lumleycastle.com
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ADDING A SPECIAL TOUCH
Y
our big day is all about you and your partner and here at Lumley we offer a selection of wedding enhancements to help you add that personal touch to your special day. Savoury cheese cake £250
A four tier cheese cake made using the highest quality cheese and served with a range of crackers and chutney.
Doughnut wall (based on 80 people) £165 Make your wedding stand out and treat your guests to a wall of iced doughnuts.
Traditional Scottish bagpiper £165 Let the majestic and soulful sound of the pipes be the background music to your wedding in the beautiful surroundings of Lumley Castle Hotel.
Master of ceremonies £175
Our medieval master of ceremonies will make announcements to your guests throughout your drinks reception and wedding breakfast.
Court jester £165
Chocolate fountain £250 Make your wedding day extra special with this ultimate indulgence. Our cascade chocolate fountain, with accompaniments, is the perfect treat for you and your guests.
Ladies of the Court £265 Our Ladies of the Court will sing to you and your guests during your drinks reception.
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Our court jester will entertain both children and adult guests alike with juggling, jokes, limericks and much more on your wedding day.
Cookie cart/savoury cart/candy cart From £150* (*for info only – all are priced differently)
Our charming Lumley Castle cart is an eye catching feature that can be filled with an array of appetising treats. Opt for colourful sweets and candies, delicious homemade cookies and cakes or tasty savoury snacks for a fun display.
Visit from Santa Claus £165 Treat the children at your wedding to a special visit from the main man himself; Father Christmas. This opportunity is not to be missed and makes your Christmas wedding complete and unique. This includes a selection box as a gift for up to 10 children.
Champagne glass tower £50.00
The Champagne glass tower is a simple yet stunning centrepiece that is sure to wow your guests; perfect when filled with a reception drink such as Bucks Fizz or Champagne.
Lumley Castle teddy bear £25
Order one of our adorable teddy bears, each wearing a green Lumley Castle jumper, to keep as a memento of your wedding here with us.
Mini alcoholic favours £POA
We have an extensive range of mini bottles of alcoholic beverages, which are guaranteed to be well received as wedding favours for your guests.
Authentic post box £35 Drinks fountain For an impressive twist on the
This beautiful Victorian post box is ideal for holding all those lovely wedding cards.
Photo booth £395 Our photo booth comes with an array of costumes and accessories to create a fun memento from your day that your guests can take away with them. Lumley Castle Wall of Frame £25
Hire Lumley Castle’s gilt frame so your wedding guests can take framed photos as an alternative to a ‘selfie’. This is guaranteed to provide them with hours of fun.
Three tier wedding cake
from £495
Hen & stag packages POA Centrepieces from £15
classic wedding reception drink,
this magnificent drinks fountain is
a great way of serving an alcoholic fruit punch or, perhaps, a non-
alcoholic cocktail for children and non-drinkers. Choice of three cocktails starting from £4.95
per head. (Still beverages only, minimum of 40 people).
Pimp your prosecco £125 Selection of fresh fruit and flavoured
cordials to complement your reception drinks.
Engraved Champagne flutes £49
Order a beautiful pair of
Champagne flutes engraved with the wedding couple’s names and
wedding date. Alternatively, these
make a lovely personalised gift for your guests or wedding party.
Engraved cake knife £45 Engraved cake knife and slice £49 Order our beautiful cake knife and slice, engraved with the wedding
couple’s names and wedding date. Use this on the wedding day for
the cutting of the cake and take it
home afterwards as a memento of your day.
Chair bows £1.75
Theme your ceremony and/or wedding breakfast with organza bows tied elegantly around chairs. With an array of colours, the chair bows make a beautiful adornment to your wedding.
Chiavari chairs £3.75
A wooden chair of Ligurian design, these simple yet elegant Chiavari chairs fit most wedding themes and will add a touch of luxury to your reception or ceremony.
ENTERTAINMENT ENHANCEMENT Uplighters £225
Theme your wedding reception at Lumley Castle with these fabulous coloured uplighters that cascade coloured lights around the room throughout your ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening disco.
LED dancefloor Acrylic white £550
LED backdrop curtain (Behind top table) £275
Barn owl ring bearer £395 Our barn owl ring bearers deliver your wedding rings in the most romantic and spectacular way possible, in a unique service, which can also make the perfect gift for the happy couple on their special day.
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&Singer
Harpist J A N E T
B E N N E T T
A striking gold harp and beautiful voice can give an unusual and magical touch of class to your civil wedding, civil partnership, church wedding, reception, conference or special occasion. Janet Bennett is the official harpist and singer to the Lord Mayor of Newcastle upon Tyne and is presently delighting audiences world wide with her music and songs. These can be used as part of a wedding ceremony or as background music during the drinks or meal.
CARRIAGES FOR ALL OCCASIONS Climb aboard our horse-drawn carriage to transform your occasion into something really special. As owners of the North-East premier horse-drawn carriage service, we guarantee to enhance your day.
For further help and advice on how this talented musician can make your wedding or special occasion truly memorable, contact:
Make your Wedding truly spectacular
Janet Bennett 13 Broxholm Road Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 5RL Tel: 0191 276 3019
Contact John Stephenson Kyo Laws Farm | New Kyo | Durham | DH9 7JL Tel: 01207 231391 Mobile: 07712 773376 Email: northeastcarriagecompany@hotmail.com www.horsedrawncarriageuk.co.uk Facebook search North East Carriage Company Ltd
www.janetbennett.co.uk
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Party Poppers Est 2003
WEDDING AND EVENT SPECIALIST
PROFESSIONAL BALLOON DECORATOR
WELCOME TO PARTY POPPERS Whatever the occasion, whatever your budget, we can transform your venue with our excellent range of beautiful event decorations.
From our beautiful star lit backdrops, love letters & balloons, to our stunning illuminated centre pieces, chair covers & bows whatever your chosen colour or theme we pride ourselves on making your special day truly memorable with our unique & personal service that is tailored to you creating memories that will last forever.
PLEASE CONTACT MEL, WHO WILL BE DELIGHTED TO ASSIST YOU FURTHER
114 Front Street, Chester-Le-Street, DH3 3BA
Tel: 0191 387 5447 Mobile: 0787 659 2546 E: party.poppers.2014@gmail.com
Find us on facebook:
melaniepartypoppers
EnTERTAInmEnT
WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT
(SPECIALISTS)
(ALL MUSIC TASTES CATERED F OR) DISCO/DJ SERVICES CEREMONY MUSIC PA SYSTEMS LED UPLIGHTING LED DANCE FLOOR PHOTOGRAPH PROJECTION FRIENDLY, PERSONAL & RELIABLE SERVICE SO YOU CAN HAVE HAVE THE PERFECT END TO YOUR SPECIAL DAY
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www.lumleycastle.com
MEET THE TEAM Name:
Name:
Job title: Sales Manager
Job title: Head Chef
LAUREN COLLEDGE What’s your favourite part of your job: The busyness, the buzz, the challenges. Every day is different, and I love the flexibility and opportunities working in such a unique venue offers.
What’s been your biggest wedding challenge: Chasing a bride down the street in the middle of Manchester Piccadilly and convincing her to walk down the aisle. Nerves got the better of her but I’m delighted to say they’re still happily married five years on. What’s the funniest thing that’s happened: I once ran a wedding at a venue in Newcastle and the couple brought their dog as ring bearer. He got overwhelmed by the crowds and started going mental running around barking aggressively at everyone. The guests got so freaked out they all vacated the room and locked the poor dog inside. It wasn’t too funny at the time but we laughed afterwards.
How have you gone above and beyond the call of duty: I once had a hair and make-up artist who didn’t show up on the day. After a quick trip to Boots I came back equipped with a full bag of essentials and stayed in the bridal suite painting nails and curling hair while one of the bridesmaids did make-up. Name:
ALISON OAKLAND
Job title: Assistant Food & Beverage Manager What’s your favourite part of your job: The overall challenge. Every day is different. Overseeing four departments keeps me busy, and it certainly never gets boring.
What’s been your biggest wedding challenge: Every wedding is a challenge, big or small, with each wedding unique in some way. You are looking after couples who have dreamt of this special day for a long time: it’s in your hands. Knowing that is a challenge in itself to get it right, meet their expectations and fulfil their dream day. What’s the funniest thing that’s happened: I’d say there have been a few (some that definitely can’t be published!). I’ve had the wedding singers ‘pretend’ to fight in the middle of the meal, to the point where the guests, including the mother of the bride, were jumping out of their seats to intervene thinking it was real...slightly scary but so funny.
How have you gone above and beyond the call of duty: I’ve had wedding dress disasters and wedding cakes collapsing - situations which you think can’t possibly be saved but, actually, they generally can with a bit of ingenuity and with everyone pulling together. It’s part of the job on a daily basis to make sure you go above and beyond to ensure everyone experiences an unforgettable occasion.
CHRIS DELANEY What’s your favourite part of your job: Working with excellent local, seasonal produce and educating people on the resources we have at hand in the surrounding counties.
What’s been your biggest wedding challenge: Every wedding has its own challenges when you’re pathologically obsessed with pleasing people and going that little bit further, but I guess catering for a 100+ wedding that was completely gluten and dairy free probably was the most challenging.
What’s the funniest thing that’s happened: Doing the wedding for the son of a very high-profile sportsman with a completely different menu than the one they’d chosen. It wasn’t that funny at the time, but I can smile about it now. How have you gone above and beyond the call of duty: I worked in total agony with a fractured forearm for four weeks. Name:
EMMA HARRISON
Job title: Wedding & Events Sales Coordinator What’s your favourite part of your job: I love meeting new people and hearing all about their wedding plans. It is not a cliché to say that every wedding truly is different and I am always so interested in the fantastic ideas people come up with for their wedding. What’s been your biggest wedding challenge: A lot of couples overlook the importance of the little extras, a wedding day can be a long day and it really is important to entertain your guests. A candy cart or canape can really make a difference to your drinks reception and relax guests whilst the happy couple are getting their beautiful photos. A photo booth on an evening is such an entertaining factor and a great way to get some snaps once your photographer has gone home! What’s the funniest thing that’s happened: A couple told me all about their plans for their very young son to drive down the aisle in his toy car. After the big day I heard all about how it took him ages as he kept knocking into the chairs and decorations but it was an unforgettable highlight from the day. How have you gone above and beyond the call of duty: One couple had made arrangements directly with a band and they cancelled very close to their wedding day. The couple were very distressed as to them this really was an important part of their day. I contacted as many bands as I knew and, due to great relationships with suppliers, I was able to find them a replacement and the couple were delighted.
www.lumleycastle.com
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DRESS TO
IMPRESS
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www.lumleycastle.com
Dress available from Lanchester Bridal www.lanchesterbridal.co.uk
Lanchester Bridal
Where your every dream comes true
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ituated in a beautiful village, close to the city of Durham, Lanchester Bridal offers you a complete wedding experience under one roof. We stock amazing designers including: Enzoani, Justin Alexander, Wtoo, True Bride and Emma Bridals. Our gowns are available in sizes 6-30+ with a price range up to ÂŁ1800.00
We are open Monday, Tuesday & Friday
11am-5pm
Wednesday/Sunday closed Thursday 1pm-7pm Saturday 10am-4pm Please note: By appointment only. Outside of the above hours, appointments can be made by prior arrangement.
Phone: 01207 437241 Mobile: 07783 689371
The Old Bank, 13 Front Street, Lanchester DH7 0LA
www.lanchesterbridal.co.uk
I
t may well be the most expensive piece of clothing you’ll ever buy and yet it’s highly likely you’ve never tried a bridal gown on before, so here are our tips for getting it right.
With so many styles and embellishments to choose from, finding your perfect dress can seem like a daunting task if you don’t know where to start – but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Many women go into bridal boutiques with a solid idea of the dress they are looking for, only to fall in love with a dress that is the complete opposite of what they envisioned. It’s important to remember that almost any dress can look beautiful on a hanger, but it isn’t until you’ve tried several styles on that you can start to properly narrow down what works best for your body and the theme of your wedding. Whether you’ve been dreaming of a voluptuous skirt with a long train or a shapely, fitted gown, there are a lot of other elements to consider. Every bride wants to feel beautiful on their wedding day and the wedding dress is a big part of that, but it’s also important to factor practicality into your decision.
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skirt of your gown will look as you walk down the aisle, for the most part it’s the bodice that everyone will be looking at. While strapless dresses with sweetheart necklines are still very popular, more and more brides are now gearing towards dresses with sleeves or a high-neck insert. Delicate sleeves of lace can add an extra element of intricacy to your gown, whether you opt for a full sleeve or off the shoulder. A high neck insert can also add detail to the back of your dress which is the perfect way to achieve the ‘wow’ factor to dazzle your guests. The most important thing to remember when shopping for your wedding dress is to make the most of the process and keep an open mind. Whether it takes trying on five dresses or fifty, you’ll know when you’ve found the one.
If you’ve been looking forward to hitting the dance floor at the evening do with your friends and family, then you may want to reconsider that monarch train you’ve been eyeing up in the bridal magazines and opt for a shorter chapel train instead. Mermaid cuts work well to create an hourglass shape which will flatter your curves, whereas a larger skirt and a fitted bodice creates a very feminine look – after all there’s a reason it’s called the princess cut. And it’ll be in the photographs you’ll be showing your relatives for years to come so you want to try and pick a dress that you will still love ten years down the line.
This doesn’t mean you have to choose a plain or simple dress however, as there are ways to incorporate both modern and traditional elements into a dress in order to make the style appear timeless. Embellishments are very popular this year and choosing a dress with a layer of lace over the skirt or detail in the bodice adds a textured element which can give it a vintage, tailored appearance. And while you may be paying a lot of attention to how you imagine the
All dresses available from Lanchester Bridal - www.lanchesterbridal.co.uk
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info@inspireanimage.co.uk or 0773 604 2640 www.inspireanimage.co.uk www.facebook.com/inspiredweddingphotography
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PICTURE PERFECT t marks the start of the rest of your life together, so making sure you find the right photographer to capture the special moments from your big day is essential.
Unlike cake or flowers, you can’t sample your wedding photographs before they are taken, so it’s important to do your research to make sure you have the picture perfect day of your dreams. Wedding photographers are in hot demand and you may find the popular ones are often booked up many months in advance.
Luckily, in the age of digital and social media, it’s never been easier to check out a photographer’s work without even having to contact them. Make sure you browse a photographer’s website or Instagram page to see examples of their images and when you find a few that you like, it’s time to set up appointments to meet them in person. Ask to see an example of a wedding album they have created before so that you can be confident they can provide the photographs you want to remember the big day – after all, you’ll be looking back on these for years to come. As well as print photography, another option for immortalising your special day is to enlist the help of a videographer. Videography packages are becoming increasingly popular, with more people than ever opting
to have a professional film made so that they can relive the highlights of their day whenever they please and share it with people outside of the guest list. When it gets nearer the wedding it is a good idea to meet with your photographer at Lumley Castle to run through the day so you can make sure that the pictures they will be taking are the ones you will be happy to display on your mantelpiece. Lumley Castle provides a stunning backdrop for photographs, whether you’re looking for a picture perfect pose on the staircase, candid shots while you’re getting ready in one of our exquisite rooms or a group picture making the most of the idyllic setting that surrounds the property. With this in mind, it is worth asking your photographer if they have worked a wedding at Lumley before as their expertise may save you a
lot of planning if they already have an idea of which locations make the best photos. And don’t forget to check roughly how much time your photographer will need so that it doesn’t interfere with the rest of the day’s schedule. After all, you don’t want to leave your guests waiting around for an hour with nothing to do or cause chaos at the reception by showing up later than expected and delaying the meal. Whether you choose to stick with print photography or add videography into your wedding, the last decision is considering what medium you want to receive the final product in. Traditionally wedding photographs were delivered in a wedding album, however many studios now offer the opportunity to receive your images or video on a memory stick or DVD. Make sure all of these details have been covered with your photographer before the big day and that your final decision is clearly written down. You may not see your photographer again until the wedding, but you can be safe in the knowledge that your day can run smoothly as all of the planning has been thoroughly taken care of.
Top image supplied by www.fyzal.com
This means it’s never too early to start looking to help you avoid falling in love with someone’s work, only to find that they’re unavailable for the date of your wedding.
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burnett4cakes
Chris Burnett, Professional Pastry Chef Quality combined with skill, style and expertise
Established since 2005 by husband and wife team, Chris & Vicki. For more information, including prices, please get in touch or visit us online. 50 The Grange | Tanfield Lea | Stanley | Co. Durham | DH9 9UT Tel: 01207 2820 98 | M: 07990 6000 44 E: enquiries@ burnett4cakes.co.uk | www.burnett4cakes.co.uk
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@burnett4cakes
Burnett4Cakes
F
LET THEM EAT CAKE
rom classic white to splashes of colour, from traditional fruitcake to decadent red velvet, there is no right answer when it comes to choosing your wedding cake.
Anything goes so if you’re a stickler for tradition or you want to create something individual and highly personal, there’s plenty of scope for creating the cake of your dreams. Even if you choose to keep it white and traditional, you might think about decorating it with soft white fondant and buttercream instead of stiff royal icing to allow for a greater choice in flavours and a more textured finish.
When it comes to adding colour,
there are countless ways to inject a personal touch into the cake,
whether you decide to go all out
and have an eccentrically coloured cake or choose a subtle tint to nod to the wedding’s colour scheme. And while fruit cake is both
tasty and reliable when it comes to holding the structure of an
elaborately tiered cake, more and more people are leaning towards sponge for greater freedom with flavours.
Popular choices now include
chocolate, vanilla, red velvet or
maybe even all three in different
tiers - with even more choice when it comes to filling.
Or if a tiered cake isn’t up your street, why not choose a pyramid of smaller desserts? Anything from profiteroles to doughnuts and cupcakes can be decorated to make a stunning display to impress your guests the same way a traditional cake would, especially when they each get a mini dessert of their own to take home. But no matter what ideas you have for your cake, remember that it is your special day and therefore it is a better idea to choose something you are happy with as opposed to trying to find a cake that will please everyone else.
Images supplied by www.burnett4cakes.co.uk
Although traditionally a wedding cake was a three-tiered creation of fruit cake, royal icing and marzipan, times are changing and couples now have more freedom than ever when it comes to making that all-important choice.
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Established 1988 Over the years we have built up a reputation for our reliability and quality. We now have a fleet of cars to be proud of and have a unique range of vintage style and classic cars from the 1930’s to 1960’s which include: 1962 VW Split Screen Camper, Beauford Tourer Convertibles, Badsworth Laudaulette, Bramwith Laudalette Limousine, Regent Convertible, Beetle Convertible and 7 seat Vanden Plas Limousines. We are now one of the longest established wedding car hire companies in the North East. All cars are chauffer driven and are owned by our company and are available for viewing prior to booking.
www.abweddingcars.com Email: enquiries@abweddingcars.com | Tel: 0191 264 2577 | Mob: 07831 556 520
Share your photos!! Picture Wizard allows your guests to upload photos taken on their mobile phones and display them instantly on our stylish 55” digital picture frame for everyone to enjoy. They can also post a message and collect a print from the Print Station. After the event you’ll receive a copy of every image that was uploaded - A fantastic way for you to collect all the images that would normally go home with the guests. Preload a selection of images to act as an ice breaker and get the guests talking on arrival, add props to create a virtual photo booth, add a personal message to the screen and prints. Book Picture Wizard on it’s own or with one of our fabulous photo booths to make your occasion one to remember.
Call 07870 609104 for more information or visit www.picwizard.co.uk or www.theguestbooth.co.uk 55” Not Big Enough?
Hire our 2m x 2.6m screen instead.
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REAL LIFE
WEDDINGS A
Rebecca and Gerard
s the world prepared for Harry and Meghan’s Windsor Castle wedding –at Lumley Castle an equally special couple was preparing to say “I do.”
For a truly fairy tale wedding, nothing beats a castle – as Meghan Markle and Darlington bride Rebecca Muzzioli both discovered. Just 24 hours before the Suits star wed our own Prince Harry, Rebecca awoke amid the opulence of Lumley Castle – the setting for her own wedding to groom Gerard Martin. When I threw back the curtains, the parkland was laid out before me, the sky was blue and the sun was shining,” said Rebecca. “It was the perfect start to a perfect day.”
“It’s straight out of the pages of a story book and I was so set on it that we didn’t even look at any other venue.”
“It’s medieval, it’s beautiful and it’s every young girl’s dream; a magical castle.” And the 34-year-old bride looked every inch the fairy tale princess in a mermaid-style figure skimming gown with lace appliqué climbing up from the bodice and scattered over sheer gauze sleeves to create an intricate and quintessentially feminine look. Holding a loosely tied, artfully arranged bouquet of champagne roses intertwined with foliage, Rebecca, her six bridesmaids – all family and friends in one-shouldered wine-coloured gowns – and a flower girl, entered Lumley’s exquisite Scarbrough Suite for the ceremony.
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Waiting for them were around 60 guests and, of course, Gerard, with no fewer than three best men and his seven-year-old son Ashton taking the proud role of page boy. After the ceremony the wedding party headed for the grandeur of The Baron’s Hall for a traditional wedding breakfast followed by dancing until late into the night. “We must have had around 130 guests for the evening reception and a live band,” said Rebecca, “and it was brilliant. Nothing was too much trouble for the team at Lumley.”
“The whole process, from
booking the wedding right through to the point when
we left to head off to Mexico on our honeymoon was just wonderful.”
“I had very high expectations of Lumley Castle – it was all I’d ever wished for in a wedding venue – and it could not have been more perfect.”
Images supplied by www.fyzal.com
Rebecca and Gerard, both train drivers, got engaged on holiday in Dubai, exactly two years earlier, in 2016, and “I knew from the very start that I wanted to marry at Lumley Castle,” said Rebecca.
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ld.co.uk by www.peonyandgo
BLOOMING
Small image supplied
LOVELY W
Whether you want your flowers to command your guests’ attention or subtly complement the setting, there are many factors to consider when it comes to planning the floral element of your wedding. Flowers can make or break a wedding, so consulting with an experienced florist is imperative to make sure your floral arrangements wow your guests rather than clash with your colour scheme. A ballpark figure of how much you are looking to spend will not only stop you overspending but also means you can work with your florist to find creative ways to achieve your desired effect, whatever your budget.
Large, exotic flowers will be more expensive than something seasonal but if you have your heart set on a particular bloom, your florist may be able to find a way to create your dream bouquet without breaking the bank. Using a few bigger, statement flowers among complementary smaller ones will create the desired impact without taking a big chunk of your budget. And although the bridal bouquet may be one of your top priorities, there are several other floral elements usually incorporated into a wedding for you to consider.
The bridesmaids’ bouquets, petals for the flower girl and a fresh pop of colour in the groomsmen’s button holes can all work to complement the overall colour scheme and make the wedding party look cohesive. And, should your budget allow, adding a floral element to the table centrepieces is an easy way to tie the room together. Popular centrepieces include birdcages, glass jars and even china tea cups, all of which can be accessorised with flowers to create a stunning display for your guests.
Main image supplied by www.alangibsonphotography.co.uk
hen it comes to flowers, choosing the bridal bouquet can be just as important a decision as picking the wedding dress.
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YOUR FAIRY GODMOTHER
We all have a story of how we met. But what of the next amazing chapter? et us our wand At wave Lumley wemagic believe yourover storyyour is about to get a whole lot more exciting. special day with a range of specially We’re thinking fairytale castle, one joyous melting pot of friends and loved ones designed bridal packages. and a night like your love that never ends.
L
Elegance from
£55
from
£75
per person
per person
Majestic
Fairytale
per person
per person
from
£95
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Radiance
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from
£125
Elegance Celebrate And Gather With Loved Ones
The Elegance package is for those who want an intimate gathering for family and friends or just want to keep it simple. No fuss, just a beautiful space to celebrate and gather with loved ones. Here’s how it looks from £55.00 per person Dedicated wedding coordinator
Three course wedding breakfast
Sparkling Reception drink
Table linen and napkins
Use of Candelabra centrepieces
Use of cake stand and knife
Radiance Your Chance To Shine And Be Adorned
The Radiance package is perfect for those couples who want to celebrate in real style, but still crave the simplicity of a good party in sumptuous surroundings with fabulous food and the best of friends. Here’s how it looks from £75.00 per person
Dedicated wedding coordinator
Top table flower arrangement
Menu cards and table plan
Three course wedding breakfast
White chair covers
Use of cake stand and knife
Sparkling Reception drink
Table linen and napkins
Overnight stay for the wedding couple
Sparkling Toast drink
Use of Candelabra centrepieces
Full English breakfast
Majestic Everything Your Heart Could Desire
Our most popular package with a truly special offering. We’ve covered absolutely everything your heart could desire, with a glorious selection of enhancements, generous amounts of fizz and glitz in the most breath-taking of spaces. Majestic is how you’ll feel.. Here’s how it looks from £95.00 per person
Dedicated wedding coordinator
Top table flower arrangement
Private bar
White chair covers
Three course wedding breakfast
Table linen and napkins
Sparkling Reception drink
Use of Candelabra centrepieces
Wine with the meal
Overnight stay for the wedding couple
Sparkling Toast drink
Member of the team as master of ceremony Menu cards and table plan Light hot buffet Use of cake stand and knife
Fairytale Make Your Dreams Come True
All you ever dreamed of – The Fairytale wedding. The castle, all the enhancements necessary to make your dreams come true and more besides. Sit back, relax and take in the moment. The story of how you met is special, now it needs a fairytale ending. It can really happen. Here’s how it looks from £125.00 per person Dedicated wedding coordinator
Table linen and napkins
Thank you bouquets x 2
Private bar
Use of Candelabra centrepieces
3 tier savoury cheesecake
Canapes (3 items)
Menu cards and table plan
Photo booth - 3 hour hire
Three course wedding breakfast
Use of cake stand and knife
DJ and disco
Sparkling Reception drink
Member of the team as master of ceremony
Overnight stay for wedding couple
Wine with the meal Sparkling Toast drink Top table flower arrangement White chair covers & bows in chosen colour
Wedding post box Hot and cold wedding buffet
Full English breakfast Dinner on your first year anniversary
Overnight Courtyard room stay the night prior
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N
LIFT THE CURSE FROM LILY
o wedding celebration is complete without something old and something new – and at Lumley Castle we can provide both.
Because, earlier this year, our 630-year-old castle unveiled something very new indeed – the first escape room in the UK to be housed at a historic site. If you’ve never tried an escape room before, they are the perfect hen or stag party entertainment – or an ideal way for wedding guests to mix and mingle. And ours is a thrilling game which invites players to work as a problemsolving team to reveal the tragic story of the Castle’s most famous ghost. Legend has it that, in the 14th century, Lady Lily of Lumley was cast down a well by Catholic priests for renouncing her faith and her ghost has since been frequently spotted by staff and visitors to the castle. Now, the escape room, in our former beer cellar, gives players the chance to unlock the mystery by solving a series of clues and puzzles – but they only have an hour in which to lift the curse surrounding Lily and solve the challenge. The new attraction has been developed by Escape Rooms Durham and director Sam Lupton said that the combination of romance and tragedy surrounding Lily of Lumley provided a rich creative theme for his team to work with. “Not only do you have this amazing story, but Lumley Castle is an exceptional building,” he said.
“Obviously, we couldn’t tamper with the structure as it’s such an important site but suffice to say the layout of the old beer cellar gave us lots of scope for a really exciting game.” One of the first to try out the new escape room was our very own manager, Ed Stephenson, who said: “It was absolutely brilliant. “ “Such thought and imagination have gone into creating the clues and you and your team members just get so caught up in trying to solve the puzzles that the time flies by.”
The escape room experience is open to residents and nonresidents alike with the option to add an overnight stay, afternoon tea package, or dinner in the hotel’s highly acclaimed Black Knight restaurant at the time of booking. And although the story centres around the legend of Lily of Lumley, the experience is family friendly, designed to be played in teams of up to six and suitable for anyone over the age of ten.
“We completed it – but only by the skin of our teeth. It was great fun and I can see this appealing to everyone, from families staying at the hotel, to groups of friends or even work colleagues looking for something unusual to do and experience.”
For more information call 0191 389 1111 or visit www.lumleycastle.com. Escape room bookings can be made at www.escapedurham.co.uk
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Our Wedding Services
SPECTRUM
F REWORKS AND SPECIAL EFFECTS
Celebrate in style with a spectacular wedding firework display Unique and innovative wedding firework Firework displays and Displays special effects starting from just for that “once in a lifetime” experience on your wedding day.
£795
Wedding Firework Displays Musical Fireworks Displays First Dance & Table Top Pyrotechnics Dry Ice and Confetti Cannons Name in Lights Projection Flame Effects
Professional affordable services. Recommended at many venues countrywide. High quality fireworks and special effects. Fully trained and qualified BPA firers.
www.spectrumfireworks.co.uk T: 0191 328 0505 E: info@spectrumfireworks.co.uk Unit 41i, Lindisfarne Court, Bede Trading Estate Jarrow, Tyne and Wear, NE32 3HG www.lumleycastle.com 31 fb.com/spectrumfireworks
@spectrumfirewks
Lumley Castle Hotel, Chester le Street, Co. Durham, DH3 4NX, Tel: 0191 389 1111 | Email: weddings@lumleycastle.com | Web: www.lumleycastle.com