No Ordinary Wedding Venue
Welcome to... Contents 4
A spectacular setting
Step back in time through our sumptuous State Rooms
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Background image supplied by: www.davidlawsonstudios.co.uk
No Ordinary Wedding Venue
And so to bed Beautiful bedrooms in which to begin and end your day
The food of love Dine like royalty at Lumley Castle
Meet the team
Planning your big day can be a daunting task from picking caterers to choosing flowers, there are so many decisions to make that sometimes it’s hard to know where to start.
Our wedding experts are here to help
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Real life stories
Meet some of the couples who married at Lumley last year
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The finishing touches
Some little extras for your special day
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Gorgeous gowns
A stunning selection of dream dresses
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The final countdown
Our guide to planning your big day
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As pretty as a picture
Capturing memories to last a lifetime
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The best of the bunch
Say it with flowers on your wedding day
We have everything you could wish for at Lumley Castle Hotel, so please give us a call on 0191 389 1111 or email weddings@lumleycastle.com
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The icing on the cake
We look forward to seeing you,
Our guide to the sweetest centrepieces
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A royal wedding
Celebrate like royalty with our Elizabethan weddings
Here, at Lumley Castle Hotel, we will guide you through every step: helping you plan each little detail of your perfect wedding, right from your hen-do to your honeymoon. Our sweeping staircases and glittering chandeliers, along with the acres of beautiful parklands surrounding the castle, create a stunning backdrop for your special day. We also offer superb food and outstanding service, so you can relax and enjoy your wedding, knowing every aspect of your day is in the safest of hands. Whether you are opting for an intimate gathering or a large celebration, nothing is more important to us than making your wedding the best it can be.
Christine Gott General Manager Cover Image www.alan-mason.co.uk
PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING: Sue Riney-Smith, Riney Publishing Limited, Tel: 01325 304360 Email: sue.riney@btinternet.com EDITORIAL: Bernice Saltzer and Emma Walker, Sorted PR Ltd, Tel: 0191 2656111 Email: bernice@sortedpr.com LUMLEY CONTACT: Nola Collinson, Director of Sales. Tel: 0191 3891111 Email: nola.collinson@lumleycastle.com
Lumley Castle Hotel, Chester le Street, Co. Durham, DH3 4NX, Tel: 0191 3891111 Email: weddings@lumleycastle.com Web: www.lumleycastle.com The publishers cannot accept liability for mistakes or misprints or views expressed within advertising submissions: No Ordinary Wedding Venue Magazine 2015
4 Image: www.alan-mason.co.uk
A Spectacular Setting…
For 600 years Lumley Castle has towered majestically over the Durham countryside - so why not let it weave some of its medieval magic over your wedding…? With its turrets and towers, opulent four poster beds and glittering chandeliers, Lumley Castle could have been plucked from the pages of a fairy tale.
Over the following 20 years he strengthened his reputation on the battlefield, triumphing in various campaigns, such as the successful siege of Bamburgh Castle.
Surrounded by seven acres of soft Durham countryside and steeped in history it is, quite simply, the most perfect setting for a wedding.
The gallant and fearless knight was also at Edward IV’s side as they rode into battle against the late Queen Margaret’s armies and was often seen at court, where he was well-liked and respected.
Now part of the No Ordinary Hotels Group, this exquisite building is as popular with modern day knights and their ladies as it was when Sir Ralph Lumley built it back in 1389 and from whom it takes its name. Tragically, however, Sir Ralph - a brave and respected soldier - had little time to enjoy his new home as, in 1400, he and his son Thomas were imprisoned for their part in a plot to overthrow Henry IV and replace him with Richard II. They were stripped of their titles and then executed. That was not the only disaster to befall the family. Lady Lily Lumley, Sir Ralph’s wife, was murdered by local priests and her body dumped in the well, which you can still see today - and her ghost is said to walk the corridors of her former home. Following Sir Ralph’s execution, all the wealth and land belonging to the Lumley family was given to the Earl of Somerset who owned the Castle so beloved by Sir Ralph until his death in 1421. The Earl had no son to bequeath his inheritance to, so under Elizabethan law Lumley Castle and all its land was restored to its rightful owners - in this case Thomas, Sir Ralph’s grandson. Like his grandfather before him, Thomas proved to be a valiant and dashing soldier and played a prominent role in the War of the Roses. As a reward for his efforts he was appointed Constable of Scarborough Castle for life and in 1461 he was summoned by writ to Parliament, where his family peerage was restored.
After his death in 1485 he was succeeded by his son George and thus began 400 years of stability with the Lumley family playing an important role in court life and in the day-to-day lives of the people of Chester-le-Street well into the 1800s. Although little information remains about the family during this time, each generation left its imprint on the Castle, with alterations and differing decorative styles, which are still on display and are enjoyed by the thousands of visitors who dine, marry and stay at Lumley Castle ever year. And, whether you plan to exchange your vows at Lumley Castle or are simply choosing to hold your reception with us, our unequalled choice of rooms will ensure you get the right venue for your requirements. Seating from as many as 132 guests to as few as 12, they offer spectacular views over the grounds, endless versatility in terms of style and sufficient space to seat your friends and family in comfort. Perhaps the jewel in our crown is the magnificent Baron’s Hall at the heart of the castle. Rich and opulent with its stone flagged floor and impressive, carved fireplace, it is a superb choice for any couple seeking the “wow” factor. From the top table, on the dais, the bridal couple can see every single one of up to 110 guests - no nasty pillars or awkward corners
- and beyond them to the gardens, while the room’s portrait lined walls and rich red décor are perfectly suited to formal occasions. The Garter, too, is an excellent choice for couples planning a larger celebration with its elaborately draped curtains and pastel shaded timeless elegance providing a beautiful backdrop for up to 130. So, whether you picture yourself as a medieval maiden or a Georgian heroine straight from the pages of a Jane Austen novel, let Lumley Castle sprinkle a little fairy tale magic on the most special day of your life.
Majestic
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Luxu
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ury
And so to Bed…
Whether you wish to wake up at Lumley Castle on your wedding morning or enjoy your first night of married life in our exquisite bridal suite, we have rooms with a view… and so much more besides… Nothing prepares you for your special day so much as a good night’s sleep and what could be nicer than waking on the day of your wedding in a four poster bed, overlooking acres of parkland? Whether you stay within the castle itself or in one of the elegant courtyard rooms, discreetly tucked away in its shadow, you can be sure of 21st century comfort and luxury. Those rooms, or, rather bedchambers, within the castle itself, boast ornately carved, four-poster beds, soft lighting and deep carpets and are the last word in opulence. And, because every room is unique and those in the castle are many hundreds of years old, our designers had huge fun fitting them with modern requirements. So, if the bathroom isn’t immediately apparent, look again - perhaps it’s behind the bookcase or, like Narnia, through the back of the wardrobe! These charming and inspired touches all add to the magic of the castle. Of course, while waking at Lumley Castle is a dream start to a wedding day, there could, equally, be no nicer way to end it - and begin your married life - than in our bridal suite. Of all the jewels in Lumley Castle’s crown, the magnificent King James Suite is the biggest and most glittering of them all. At its heart is a 20ft high, canopied, Queen Anne bed, richly draped in black and ruby damask to complement the crimson and gold embossed wallpaper and brass and ivory light fittings. The suite also features a comfortable lounge area and, for the ultimate in relaxation, a jet bath - perfect for easing away the strains and stresses of the day or unwinding in before you head downstairs to greet your evening guests. Talking of guests, with 73 bedchambers to choose from, there really is no need for friends and family to depart once the day draws to a close. They can choose to stay in the castle itself or, perhaps, in one of our charming courtyard rooms, cleverly converted from the castle’s former stables and boasting every modern amenity. So, when it comes to spending your last night as a single person or your first night as a married one - or both - there really is nowhere as beautiful or as special as Lumley Castle Hotel.
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SUSAN’S ESTABLISHED 1964
BRIDALWEAR Mori Lee • Amanda Wyatt • Ellis Bridals • Benjamin Roberts
BRIDESMAIDS Mori Lee • Kelsey Rose • Alexia • Amanda Wyatt APPOINTMENTS NOT NECESSARY
Susans Bridal, 42 Hylton Road Millfield Sunderland SR4 7AA Tel: 0191 514 4564 Web: www.susansbridal.co.uk
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The Food of Love
At Lumley Castle Hotel we understand that the food at your wedding needs to be as perfect as the rest of your day. So, whether you choose a finger buffet or a formal wedding breakfast, we will ensure you dine like royalty… Food is at the heart of any wedding celebration and that is why we work with you to create a menu as unique and special as you are. Not only do we offer a wide range of canapés, buffet and banquet menus, but our chefs are also happy to create bespoke menus comprising dishes that hold special memories or are firm family favourites. And, whether we are catering for intimate gatherings or large scale celebrations, we ensure that each dish is prepared, cooked and presented to perfection…every time. Here is a sample selection of our dishes just to make your mouth water.
Sample Menu One
Sample Menu Two
To Start
To Start
(v) with rocket dressed in pesto Tomato and mozzarella salad tons, crou garlic e, lettuc gem Chicken caesar salad with little esan anchovy fillets and shaved parm
Salmon and goats cheese tart with tomato and basil salad Duck and pancetta terrine with crisp leaves, fig jam and brioche bun
Sorbet
Sorbet
berries Sloe gin sorbet with fresh black
Green apple and calvados sorbet
Soup / Intermediate
Soup / Intermediate
croutons Minestrone soup with garlic
Sweet potato and rosemary soup
Main
Main
roasted new potatoes, Poached breast of chicken with wine, mushroom tarragon seasonal vegetables and a white sauce
Cumberland sausage served on scallion mash potato, seasonal vegetables and a red onion and ale gravy and crispy fried onions
g roll with coconut rice and Oriental style vegetable sprin seasonal vegetables (v)
Roast loin of pork with sage and onion stuffing, roast potatoes seasonal vegetables and rich sage gravy
Sweets d brulée served with shortbrea e crèm la Classic vanil y sour cherr Strawberry bavois served with and amaretto sorbet
Banoffee pie served with toffee sauce and banana ice cream
Sweets
Lumley Castle signature warm sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce and clotted cream
Hot & Cold Fork Buffets lasagne | Fillet of salmon with Chicken tikka curry | Vegetable | Buttered new potato | rice ati Basm | cream n lemo chive, slaw, potato salad, pasta Cole | r platte meat cold of Selection salad leaf d salad, mixe £22.00 per person ard cream sauce | Fish pie Chicken in a honey and must | Vegetable curry | Chilli con topped with cheesy leek mash potatoes | Selection of cold meat carne | Basmati rice | Jacket , pasta salad, mixed leaf salad platter | Coleslaw, potato salad £26.00 per person
cottage pie | Chicken in a wild Beef bourguignon | Vegetable sauce | Oven roasted sea mushroom and tarragon cream soy sauce | Selection of cold bass with spring onions and sh | Smoked salmon and shellfi and continental meat platter salad, mixed leaf salad, platter | Tomato and red onion r and mint yoghurt salad coleslaw, pasta salad, cucumbe rice ati Basm | toes pota et Jack £28.00 per person
ding Cheesecake, Lumley Castles Savoury Wed fruits and assorted crackers eys, chutn with accompanied £175.00
0 (10 portions per platter) £75.0 fruits and assorted crackers accompanied with chutneys, Platters of assorted cheeses, sauce and wedges Shredded pork baps with apple | Bacon baps with wedges | Sausage baps with wedges on pers per wedges £13.00 Hot beef baps with Gravy and
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Providing Morning Wear, Slim Fit Lounge Suits, Highland Wear, Dinner Suits and more we can assist in ensuring the perfect suit complements the perfect gown Specialising in the Masterhand brand of suits, half the weight of traditional hire wear and beautifully cut to guarantee a perfect fit. Without doubt the pinnacle of men’s formal wear. Plus, order any suit with us and get a brand new pair of shoes for only £20.00 per person (RRP £35.00). Choose from Oxford style brogues in black or brown or more contemporary Gibson style slip on. Perfect to finish off the outfit.
Unit 2 Front Street Industrial Estate Shotton Colliery Durham DH6 2ND www.weddingdressdurham.co.uk
Meet the Team Name: Richard Chilver Job Title: Head Chef
Name: Claire Sanderson Job Title: Wedding Co-ordinator
What’s your favourite part of your job? Inventing and producing new dishes and keeping up with food trends
What’s your favourite part of your job? I love being a part of the couple’s special day and helping to make their ideas and requests reality. The final details meeting is one of my favourite parts as I like finding out about exactly how they envisage their big day.
What’s been your biggest wedding challenge? Every wedding has its own challenges, but one of the trickiest problems is when the speeches run on too long or photographers spend another hour taking pictures. Our challenge in the kitchen is to ensure that no matter what happens, the food is at its best, always. What’s the funniest thing that’s happened? A bride had a French croquembouche wedding cake - which is profiteroles built into a tower - and the whole thing just collapsed. I was asked to rescue it, which I did and not only did the bride think it looked better than before, but she was so happy that when it came to having her picture taken with it she asked for me to be in the picture with her - and not her new husband! How have you gone above and beyond the call of duty? In lots of ways - I do all the time. I’ve created bespoke traditional African menus, carried out first aid when people have fainted on hot days and fixed hundreds of wedding cakes. I’m happy to, though, because on my wedding day all I wanted was my amazing wife to have a perfect day and all I want at Lumley Castle is for all brides to have the same. So in my eyes nothing will ever be beyond the call of duty as I will always do everything I can to make their dreams come true
Name: Keith Stephenson Job Title: Events Manager/Wedding Co-ordinator What’s your favourite part of your job? I love everything about it, particularly the variety. However, I must confess that weddings are my favourite, as each one is different. I never lose sight of the fact that every single one is special. What’s been your biggest wedding challenge? We’ve had everything from ring-bearing owls and dogs, to wedding cars breaking down and brides arriving more than an hour late: that always makes the chef happy! We’ve never had a problem we haven’t been able to solve, though. What’s the funniest thing that’s happened? The funniest thing that has happened, was me going upstairs to meet the bride and groom, I missed the top step and fell flat on my face in front of them.
What’s been your biggest wedding challenge? For me every wedding is as challenging as the next as there is a lot of pressure to ensure that the day is as perfect as the couple imagined. It is important I am organised and that I capture every minor detail. What’s the funniest thing that’s happened? The most memorable moment was one Thursday morning when I walked into the courtyard to find the best man trying to clamber on to a large white horse. He was attempting to ride down to the bottom of the driveway and collect the bride but had clearly never ridden before. Needless to say, the horse wasn’t impressed. How have you gone above and beyond the call of duty? To ensure the wedding day goes as smoothly as possible, I find myself in a variety of situations, from strapping brides into their dresses to consoling them when things get too stressful.
Name: Alison Oakland Job Title: Events Supervisor What’s your favourite part of your job? I enjoy all aspects of my job, especially being part of such a happy event. What’s been your biggest wedding challenge? Every wedding is a challenge and unique, and I embrace each and every challenge as it comes along. I’ve had to cope with wedding dress alterations, cake disasters, and being in two places at once when brides and grooms are arriving at the same time. What’s the funniest thing that’s happened? I was standing at the front of the castle waiting for a bride and groom to arrive. Their horse and carriage pulled up and just as I gave them their champagne, the horse had a call of nature in front of me and the wedding party. Apparently this is lucky for the couple on their wedding day, but it certainly wasn’t for me. How have you gone above and beyond the call of duty? I would hope that I go above and beyond the call of duty for everyone’s wedding. Every wedding I have looked after has been different in its own special way.
Passionate Do you go above and beyond the call of duty? Going the extra mile is part of the job but I do have to think on my feet quite a lot. A cake once arrived after travelling half way across the country and, sadly, the bottom tier had collapsed, so I bought fresh white roses to hide the damage and turned a three tier cake into two tiers - I’m pleased to say the bride’s mother was delighted with the end result.
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“We are highly recommended by Lumley Castle Hotel to their Brides for our gorgeous collections and superb service”
2 0 Fr e d e r i c k S t r e e t , S u n d e r l a n d S R 1 1 LT • Te l : 0 1 9 1 5 6 4 2 2 2 7 www.encore-evenings.com Find us on Facebook @Encore-Evenings-and-Bride
Real Life Stories… The fun continued with an evening reception for about 80 guests before Lynn and factory supervisor Adam, 37, headed up to their sumptuous, tranquil bridal suite.
When our cover girl, chef Lynn Adams, set eyes on Lumley Castle she knew it offered all the ingredients for a breathtaking wedding… With its stunning grounds, opulent function rooms and beautiful bedrooms, four star Lumley Castle Hotel really is a fairy tale setting - and Lynn and groom Adam Houghton were determined to enjoy every single second of their wedding here in October 2014. Lynn, 30 and her two older bridesmaids checked in the night before the big day so they would waken in the morning refreshed and relaxed before the ceremony in the elegant Scarborough Suite. “It was the perfect start to the perfect day,” said Lynn. “And from the moment I opened my eyes every second was just magical.” Around 50 friends and family members watched as Lynn’s brother-in-law escorted her to Adam’s side - her Cathedral-length, lace trimmed veil flowing over her full tulle skirts - followed by her sister, two nieces and best friend in soft shades of sage green and rose pink. “After the ceremony we had a three course formal wedding breakfast in the Baron’s Hall,” said Lynn, from Hartlepool, “although I was so excited I could barely eat a thing.”
Image: Richard Rowell
Image: www.alan-mason.co.uk
And Lynn has this advice for brides-to-be considering Lumley Castle. “Don’t think twice. It is so unique and so special and the wedding team go out of their way to make everything perfect. Mine was a dream wedding and yours would be, too.”
We might be pushing our luck to suggest that the sun always shines on Lumley Castle - but it certainly blazed down on Sunderland couple Claire Rowell and David Purvis’ wedding in August 2014.
When banker Liam Burn slipped a ring on bride Helen Turnbull’s finger in the glittering setting of Lumley Castle’s Scarborough room, it really was a case of third time lucky.
“We’d been worried because the weather had been pretty bad the day before,” said 34-year-old exam officer Claire, “but it was just wonderful on our big day - in fact the whole wedding was perfect from start to finish.”
“Although Helen had stayed at the hotel the night before, my best man Peter and I were leaving from our homes,” said Liam, 31, “and he forgot the rings twice.
Claire and David, a 35-year-old sports development officer, opted for an intimate celebration with a ceremony in the Scarborough Room in front of just 16 friends and family members. “We then went into the Gilt Room for a three course seated wedding breakfast,” said Claire and then, in the evening, had cheese and wine.
“He left them at his house when he made his way to mine and had to go back to get them, then then we were actually on our way to the hotel when he realised he’d left them on my hall table.” Thankfully, once the pair - and the rings - arrived at Lumley Castle, 30-year-old financial adviser Helen and the couple’s 72 guests were none the wiser and enjoyed a beautiful and special day.
Perfect Good fortune continued to bless the couple when the wedding party went outside for their photographs. “The weather hadn’t been wonderful,” said Lynn, “but the moment we stepped outside the sun just blazed down on us.”
“We’d looked at several venues but Lumley Castle just had that ‘wow’ factor,” she added. “We wanted to spend the whole day in one place - and there really is no better place than Lumley.”
“After the ceremony, we had a formal wedding breakfast in the Garter Suite,” said Liam, “and, later, an evening disco for around 130 people. “I knew as soon as we saw Lumley Castle that it was the right venue for us. Not only does it look amazing but the staff were superb from the outset - we knew they had everything covered and we could just concentrate on enjoying the day.”
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The Finishing Touches At Lumley Castle Hotel we know it’s the little extras that make a celebration truly memorable …
Here come the girls Ladies wine tasting experience, price on request. Give your hen night a sophisticated twist with a three course dinner followed by wine tasting in one of the Castle’s private dining rooms.
Setting the scene Chair Bows, £1.60 per chair. Our shimmering organza chair bows come in a wide choice of colours and provide an elegant way of continuing your colour theme and dressing your room. Uplighters, £185. For the wow factor and instant glamour choose these fabulous uplighters,that cascade coloured lights around the room throughout your ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening disco.
Entertainment Traditional Scottish bagpiper, £165. Our traditional Scottish piper will greet you and your guests on arrival at Lumley and entertain you throughout the celebrations. Master of ceremonies, £165. Our medieval Master of Ceremonies will ensure your day runs smoothly by formally announcing each stage of the proceedings. Ladies of the Court, £255. Our Ladies of the Court will sing to you and your guests during your Drinks Reception. Court jester, £165. His juggling, jokes and limericks will entertain children and adults alike.
Image: www.philsmithphotography.co.uk
Visit from Santa Claus, £165. A winter wedding just wouldn’t be the same without a visit from Father Christmas. All children will receive a gift and photograph opportunity.
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Go
Food and drink
Gorgeous gifts
Chocolate fountain, £315. Our cascade chocolate fountain with accompaniments is the perfect sweet treat for you and your guests.
Lumley Castle teddy bear, £15. Our gorgeous teddy bears in their red, Lumley Castle jumpers, make a lovely gift or memento of your wedding day.
Lumley Castle teddy bear and presentation bottle of Champagne set. £50. This delightful set includes a bottle of House Champagne and a Lumley Castle teddy bear.
Champagne glass tower, £80. The Champagne glass tower is a simple, yet stunning, centre piece with unequalled wow factor. Fill it with Bucks Fizz or Champagne for a memorable drinks reception.
Engraved Champagne flutes. £40 This beautiful pair of Champagne flutes, engraved with the bride and groom’s names and wedding date, are available in Silverline or Platinum designs.
Drinks fountain, £80. This magnificent drinks fountain is the perfect display for an alcoholic fruit punch or a nonalcoholic cocktail for children and non-drinkers. Still beverages only.
Engraved cake knife and slice. £40. This elegant set, engraved with the bride and groom’s names and wedding date and available in two designs, can be used on the day for the cake cutting and then kept forever.
Candy stand/ cookie stand/ savoury stand, £165. Our traditional Lumley Castle cart can be filled with an endless array of colourful sweets and candies, delicious homemade cookies and cakes or savoury snacks.
Lumley Castle cake-in-a-jar favours. £3.95 each. These delightful, edible, wedding favours come in a range of flavours.
Mulled wine and sweet mince pies, £3.95 per person. These festive treats are a perfect addition to your winter wedding here at Lumley Castle. Serve with your evening buffet or while enjoying fireworks under the stars.
Lumley Castle chocolates, £10. A charming box of 12 assorted chocolate truffles - a lovely gift for bridesmaids or a prewedding treat just for you.
Lumley Castle unique cookie favours. £3.95 large, £2.95 small. Our bespoke shortbread or gingerbread cookies in a range of shapes make great favours and can also double as place cards with guests’ names piped in icing.
orgeous Flavoured hot chocolate or coffee, £3.50 per person. Warm up your guests with hot chocolates and coffees in flavours such as orange, mint and caramel - perfect with a slice of wedding cake. Savoury wedding cheese cake with crackers, chutneys and accompaniments, £175. This fabulous three or four tier cake is created from premier cheeses and decorated here at Lumley Castle - an excellent alternative to traditional wedding cake.
Mini alcoholic favours, from £3 each. Treat your guests to wedding favours with a twist; miniatures of their favourite tipples, including port, brandy, Baileys Irish Cream, Jägermeister and Courvoisier.
Presentation bottle of Champagne, £39.50 Pop the cork on a bottle of house Champagne and let the celebrations begin with a toast to the bride and groom. Presentation bottle of Champagne and Lumley Castle chocolates set. £50. Start - or end - your special day with this luxurious Champagne and chocolates set.
Lumley Castle fruit hamper. £20. Treat your guests - or the happy couple - to this hamper of seasonal fresh fruits, which can be placed in their bedroom on arrival. Lumley Castle cheese hamper. £35. Again, present this as a gift or surprise a guest or loved one by arranging for this hamper, filled with prestigious cheeses, to be delivered to their bedroom.
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Affordable Elegance Designer Wedding Dresses and Bridal Accessories in Sunderland. Since it opened in Sunderland, three years ago, Amore Brides has earned a reputation for affordable elegance. A supremely stylish boutique, it offers discerning brides, their bridesmaids, flower girls and matrons of honour, a choice of more than 100 beautiful gowns, from award-winning designers Mark Lesley, Maggie Sottero, Jasmine, Donna Salado and Sweetheart. Staff ensure every bride feels special, providing a professional and personal service, tailored to her specific needs - just one of the many reasons why Amore Brides reached finals of the English Wedding Awards.
We stock a wide range of bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, veils, head dresses, jewellery, shoes and accessories to suit differing styles and budgets.
Suite 3 | 11 Green Terrace | Sunderland T 0191 5108 838
W amoresunderland.co.uk
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Dresses to Dream of
Images supplied by: www.amoresunderland.co.uk
When you’re planning your big day all decisions pale in comparison to finding the prefect dress and, with so much choice on offer this year, finding your dream gown couldn’t be easier…
It’s a well-known fact that the all-important wedding dress is a vital part of almost every bride’s dream day. It is, without question, one of the most memorable outfits you will ever wear, so it’s important you get it right, with a shade, cut and style which flatter. So where do you start?
Whether the main body of the dress is satin or silk, choosing a dress with Venetian lace embellishment or a net overlay can help you add a bit of bling to your wedding gown while still giving you the classic look that so many brides dream of.
Fashions from across the decades are coming together this year with vintage glamour at the forefront of designers’ minds.
From neckline embellishment and embroidered cuffs to all over lace, you can go for as much detail as you like, transforming the plainest frock into a glittering gown or simply adding a few little touches to give your dress the ‘wow’ factor.
It’s all about adding that extra sparkle to your gown with some understated detail; from the lace embroidery of the twenties to halter necks of the fifties, there’s something to suit all tastes – meaning you have plenty of choice when finding a gown to flatter your figure.
Headbands and high necklines from the Roaring 20s are a perfect choice for more mature or conservative brides. This popular style of dress offers more modesty than the traditional sweetheart neckline and, with added detail and various accessories, will give you a grown-up and sophisticated look.
Sparkle Many brides are choosing a court or chapel train as a popular alternative to the full length cathedral train. Their circular shape and shorter length make them more manageable, while still giving the elegance associated with long, sweeping trains.
Extending from the waist, court trains are flattering for a variety of figures. Brides with an athletic figure can pair this cut with cap sleeves and flared skirts, whereas brides with a fuller figure can opt for a ball gown skirt and a boned bust.
One of the great things about being a bride, especially this year, is that there is such a vast selection of dresses to choose from. So, whether you pick a bespoke creation or a designer gown, you can look and feel like a princess on your big day: after all, it’s a day you’ll remember forever.
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A Perfect Fit…
Here are our top tips for making sure you are dressed to impress on your wedding day. 1. When choosing your dress try on as many different styles, lengths and shades or colours as you can. This is the only way to find out what works and what doesn’t. 2. Take with you someone whose opinion you value and who you know will give you an honest appraisal of each outfit. 3.
Take a pair of shoes with a similar heel height to the ones you will wear on the big day to enure the dress is the right length. Remember that a bride is on her feet for a long time and this is possibly not the right time for six inch heels.
4. Generally speaking, ivory or oyster are kinder to the complexion that brilliant white but, again, try them all to find a shade that works for you. 5. Don’t forget to look at accessories. A simple gown can be given the wow factor with a fabulous stole or headdress… 6. …And don’t forget to check out high street shops for accessories. The current 1920s trend means there are lots of evening gloves, jewelled headbands and slides and some fabulous jewellery to be had.
8. Dress to suit your shape, too. A good dress will flatter your good points and conceal imperfections. So, if you don’t like your upper arms, for example, consider three quarter length sleeves or a lace bolero. 9. Make sure you check the fitting of your dress in the run up to the big day as you may well lose weight and don’t forget to have a trial hair and make up run as well… 10. …Finally, don’t change your style too drastically. You still want to look like you.
Images supplied by: www.amoresunderland.co.uk
7. Try and be realistic when choosing your dress. A skin tight sheath dress might look great in pictures but can make kneeling, dancing and even just sitting, nigh on impossible.
Perfect
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ADVERT
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A Date to Remember
Detailed below is a time line to assist you with the planning of your special day. This time frame is Lumley Castle’s recommendation only
1 Year to 8 Months Once the venue, church or registrars have been booked: • Book the wedding cars • Book your photographer • Take out wedding insurance • Buy your wedding dress, shoes and accessories • Choose and design your wedding cake • Book your band/disco • Book your honeymoon
Wedding Fayres
6 Months
Planning your wedding day? Then why not come along to our wedding fayres? Not only will you be taken on a tour of our Grand State Rooms but more than 40 of the region’s leading wedding suppliers - from entertainers and florists to cake experts and bridal salons - will be on hand to advise and inspire you.
4 Months • Send out your invitations • Arrange your flowers with the florist • Order the favours • Buy any gifts for the bridesmaids, Best Man etc • Start making a seating plan based on acceptances • Pick up the wedding rings • Arrange a dress fitting
3 Months Your final details appointment with your Lumley Castle Wedding Co-Ordinator. At the meeting be prepared to discuss the following: • Approximate numbers of day and evening guests • Reception drinks selection • Canapés choice • The wedding breakfast • Beverage selection • Order of the day • Entertainment • Table plan and set up
Six weeks
Sunday 18th October 2015 Time to be confirmed.
• Start your table plan • Pick up the wedding dress • Have a hen/stag night
Wedding Showcases
1 Month • Organise a practice session with your hairdresser and beautician • The final balance of your Lumley Castle wedding bill is due
1 Week
Alternatively, why not visit one of our wedding showcases to see Lumley Castle Hotel in all its bridal glory and have a chat with our wedding team? Sunday 17th May 2015 From 1pm - 4pm - Admission free Wednesday 19th August 2015 From 5pm - 8pm - Admission free
• A final details meeting will be arranged with the Lumley Castle Operational Wedding Co-ordinator who will be looking after you on the day. • Your wedding co-ordinator will advise you of the appropriate date to deliver your wedding cake, decorations and favours • Bring along your table plan and pass it to your Wedding Co-ordinator
Detail At the meeting we will advise you of the procedures and time frames leading up to your wedding date
Bridal images: www.davidlawsonstudios.co.uk
• Arrange the hire of any formal wear • Choose and order your wedding rings • Order your invitations
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As Pretty as a Picture… When memories fade, pictures can bring the past instantly to life and nowhere lends itself to stunning shots quite as well as Lumley Castle.
With the rising popularity of smart phones taking photos is easier than ever - but just because anyone can take a picture, it doesn’t follow that those pictures will be worthy of pole position on your mantelpiece. While family snapshots provide great, informal images of the day, nothing can beat wedding photographs taken by a professional photographer. Many, particularly the best ones, can be booked up months in advance so start your search early. Begin by asking friends and family for recommendations and find out if your reception venue has a favourite photographer - they work with so many they are bound to be able to advise you. When you have a shortlist of three or four, make an appointment to see them. You need to ask how much experience of wedding photography they have - it is a specialism and a great portrait photographer, for example, may not be brilliant at weddings - and see examples of their work.
photographer has worked at your church or reception venue before. If so, they may know where to get the best shots and this could save a great deal of time on the day.
day, but now you can tackle the rest of the planning safe in the knowledge your efforts will be beautifully captured to look back on and enjoy for many years to come.
Once you have booked your photographer you and they need to be completely clear about your requirements.
Our top wedding photo tips
Clarify the exact cost and try and get a clear idea of how long the photo shoot will take. Many weddings have been spoilt because guests have been left hanging around in the reception venue for hours waiting for the bride and groom to arrive. Timing is also significant as your reception venue will expect you at a certain time and will have alerted the kitchen to your schedule. If you are significantly late arriving it could throw the whole reception into chaos. In years gone by it was traditional to purchase three albums of photographs, one for the bridal couple and a set each for their parents. However, technological advancements mean there is now a vast choice of mediums and finishes for photographs and you must make sure you discuss these with your photographer and ensure your final decisions are clearly written down.
Lumley Castle Hotel is one of the region’s most picturesque locations - and here’s why 1. With turrets and towers the castle is straight out of a fairytale… 2. …and don’t forget about its stunning grounds. Whether snow covered or in full summer bloom, there are seven acres in which to pose to your heart’s content. 3. Why not get some pre-ceremony shots of the wedding party getting ready in our ornate bedchambers? 4. Or make like a princess with a picture on our sweeping staircase?
Moment Explain the variety of shots you would want groups of family, perhaps, as well as more intimate shots of you and your betrothed - and ask if the
Once you and your photographer are in complete agreement you may not meet again until the big
5. With so much to choose from, it’s a good idea to pay us a pre-wedding visit with your photographer to plan your pictures in advance and ensure your special day runs seamlessly from start to finish. 6. Why not also consider a video of your day? This will add an extra special dimension to your memories.
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Image: www.fyzal.com
There’s an old saying that everyone’s an expert - and never has that been more true than with photography.
Mark
Lloyd
Come and see Mark at Mobeus Jewellers... 120 Park Rd, Hartlepool TS26 9HU
sales@marklloydjewellery.co.uk
Designer Jewellery Associate Fellow of the Institute of Professional Goldsmiths
WE ARE NOW OFFERING A UNIQUE WEDDING PACKAGE IF YOU SPEND A MINIMUM OF £1500 VINTAGE CHAMPAGNE, ROMANTIC MEAL FOR TWO
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OUR
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LET MARK TAKE YOU THROUGH DESIGN IDEAS AND SHARE HIS EXPERT KNOWLEDGE SKILLS TO CREATE A MASTERPIECE THAT YOU WILL TREASURE FOR LIFE
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The Best of the Bunch
Images: www.funkyflowercompany.co.uk
Whether you opt for a striking sheaf, a simple posy or an elaborate trailing bouquet, flowers have a beautiful role to play in your big day…
Not only do flowers add colour and texture to the bridal outfit but they can also soften the contours of reception venues and brighten gloomy corners. However, when choosing your flowers it is worth remembering that colours can make or break an occasion so they need to be chosen with care. Blues and violets will struggle to stand out in dimly lit areas while yellow can drain pale complexions and white flowers could make an off-white dress look positively grubby. So where do you start? Choose a colour you like and that you are happy to carry through to other areas of the wedding. Then take your cue from your own dress. If it is a stylish, contemporary creation with little in the way of frills or flounces, you might choose a similarly striking and modern bouquet. Long stems of hand-tied lilies look very effective and sophisticated or, for a dramatic statement, why not choose vividly coloured blooms? Don’t forget, too, that the shape of your bouquet can work wonders at accentuating your figure. If you want to look taller or slimmer then a trailing bouquet, which flows gently downwards will help create that optical illusion. Similarly, angular brides can draw the eye
outwards with an orb of blooms or widen their silhouette slightly with a sheaf of flowers carried loosely in the crook of the arm. In choosing her flowers, a bride also needs to take into account bouquets for bridesmaids, buttonholes for the groom and his attendants and displays for the church and reception venue. Fussy creations loaded with dyed carnations and gypsophilia have given way to statement arrangements which rely on the shape and colour of blooms such as tulips and roses, rather than variety and quantity. So, your groom may wear a buttonhole of a single exotic stem, echoing a colour of flower from your bouquet and, likewise, the bridesmaids may carry smaller, simpler versions of it. At the reception venue, flowers on each table are essential, with displays sized accordingly. So, you will need larger displays for the top table than you will for the others and you must remember to keep them fairly compact so they don’t trail in the food or poke guests in the eye. If all this sounds alarmingly confusing don’t forget your florist will be able to advise you on what is needed and how to provide it within your budget.
Our top tips Your flowers needn’t cost a fortune and here’s why… 1. Exotic blooms will inevitably be far more expensive than seasonal, home-grown varieties so it is wise - and far more effective - to use them sparingly. 2. Foliage such as fern and ivy are relatively cheap - they may even be growing in your garden - and always effective. 3. Why not hand pick flowers and arrange them in pretty, vintage china teacups or jugs for a charming, informal table arrangement, or float flower heads in bowls of water? 4. If another wedding is taking place the day before or after yours, perhaps you could share the cost of flowers? 5. Don’t forget that many of our wedding packages include flowers - ask our team for details.
Blooms
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Specialists in designing individual wedding and celebration cakes. With our collective culinary expertise and cake artistry, we can design your wedding cake to your exact wishes. From fantasy creations and traditional styles to contemporary chocolate sensations, we will design your dream wedding cake.
Unit A1 | Houghton Business Centre | Lake Road | Houghton-le-Spring | DH5 8BJ
0191 584 5623 / 0781 749 5457 www.kellyanns.co.uk
B
The Icing on the Cake
From traditional, tiered towers to cascades of profiteroles, anything goes when it comes to the confectionery centrepiece of your wedding reception. For decades, rich fruit cakes, wrapped in marzipan and elaborately decorated with iced lace and roses, have been the traditional wedding centrepiece - but now many couples are opting for something entirely different. Some are staying with a tiered cake replacing the brittle, royal icing with soft fondant and placing the tiers on curving, modern stands. Others are using sponge cakes instead of or as well as fruit to ensure all their guests’ tastes are catered for. Such is the trend for personalised, individually designed cakes that clever cake makers across the country are letting their imaginations run riot and continually experimenting with new techniques and ideas. With the clever use of flowers, both iced ones and fresh ones, edible glitter, sparklers and intricate icing techniques, a good cake maker should be able to turn even your most farfetched fantasy into reality.
There are very few rules to observe when choosing or designing your cake other than to ensure it is large enough and will hold its shape long enough for you to cut it.
Our top cake tips
Do be aware that sponge cakes are not as dense as fruit so may not be able to support a great number of tiers unless they are fairly heavily iced and that cakes covered in butter icing will not fare well if left to stand in a warm room for long.
1. Your cake should have wow factor. If you don’t like elaborate icing, perhaps think about adding fake tiers or using edible glitter to decorate it.
Cake makers chosen by recommendation are ideal but if you are considering an untried baker, then ask them to create a mini-version of your cake for you to try at home. That way you can be sure of the quality and get a feeling for how the real one will fare when it has been sitting, possibly in a sunny window, for the duration of the reception. Of course, the cake isn’t simply a frivolous, sugar-coated confection; it is a symbol - and the ancient tradition of cutting it re-enforces your union as man and wife.
Our chief pastry chef Jonathan Rambuyon has this advice:
2. Individual cupcakes are a great, modern way of serving wedding cake, but why not have a giant cupcake, too, so the bride and groom can carry out the symbolic cutting? 3. Why not decorate the cake in keeping with your colour theme? You can echo the colour in icing or fresh flowers. 4. Ask your baker if you can see - and taste examples of their work before you order. 5. If you’re opting for a rich fruit cake, remember to save the top tier for the christening party of your first child!
Images: www.kellyanns.co.uk
One particularly modern option channels the trend for cupcakes, by displaying numerous, individually decorated, small cakes on a large, tiered stand. Then, instead of offering guests a slice, each person gets a cupcake of their own.
Beautiful 29
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Wedding & Party Entertainments at Their Best!
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Call Paul, Jane or Charles leisurem@btconnect.com 01642 713010 /lmsentertainments @lmsents
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LMS Events & Entertainments est. 1988
Imagine the finale to your big day, the sky filled with colour & sparkle all beautifully choreographed to perfection to your own choice of music at no extra charge! We specialise in high impact, low noise wedding firework displays. Our other services include:Indoor, First Dance & Table Fireworks Indoor Sparklers Indoor & Outdoor Name Projection Confetti Cannons, Dry Ice & Snow Machines Con Dancing Water, Laser & Light Shows
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Creating Bridal Beauty for over 20 years. Bridal makeup • Airbrush makeup • Lash extensions • Nails w: www.perfectionnailandbeauty.co.uk t: 0191 5512924 • m: 07810 072364 Creating Bridal Beauty for over 20 years. Bridal makeup • Airbrush makeup • Lash extensions • Nails Hair available on request w: www.perfectionnailandbeauty.co.uk • t: 0191 5512924 • m: 07810 072364
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A Royal Wedding Step back in time to a Golden Age of opulence, with an Elizabethan style wedding, fit for royalty…
Lumley Castle: The perfect place for hen parties Ladies who like the finer things in life need look no further than four star Lumley Castle Hotel when it comes to planning their hen dos.
Murder Mystery Evenings It’s 1903 and Lumley Castle is the setting for a hideous crime. In the dead of night a murder was committed – and the villain remains at large. Ladies looking for a hen do with a twist are invited to help unravel the mystery of this horrible deed. Taking on the role of detective, you and your party will watch a re-enactment of the murder before looking for the hidden clues that will help you solve the crime. and, now, brides-to-be can celebrate their big day in true Tudor style with our sumptuous Elizabethan wedding banquets. This evening entertainment begins with welcome drinks in the dungeon and guardroom, followed by the banquet itself in our impressive Baron’s Hall, which can cater for up to 110 people during the day and 180 people in the evening. Here, you and your guests can indulge in an exquisite five-course meal - complete with goblets of wine and mead - while our Lords and Ladies of the Court entertain you with songs, sketches and sing-a-longs. After dinner the hotel Chamberlain will return you and your guests to the 21st century for your evening celebration. The Elizabethan era was an age famous for its grandeur, with lavish celebrations and regal banquets becoming part of day to day life for the Lords and Ladies of the court.
In the warmer months, you’ll be able to receive your guests on the terrace before entering the Guards Room and Baron’s bar to dance the night away.
Over the centuries, Lumley Castle has played host to some of England’s aristocratic elite
However, winter brides need not worry as they can host their guests in the transformed hotel dungeons, with music from our resident DJ to end their big day with a bang.
The evening begins with a reception drink and a three course dinner before you embark on your crime stopping mission. Then, after an evening of detective work, why not rest your head on the fluffy pillows in our individually designed bedrooms at a discounted event and accommodation rate?
Afternoon Tea and Ladies Wine Tasting Experience Fine dining with fine wine is the name of the game at Lumley Castle Hotel, where high-class hens can indulge in an exquisite three course evening meal. Then, after dinner, you and your friends will be invited to join us for wine tasting in one of our ornate private dining rooms to toast the occasion. Or, for a daytime treat, why not try our afternoon tea in the Library Bar or our renowned Black Knight Restaurant? We offer a range of packages, including afternoon tea with Pimms or Champagne - now that really is worth raising a glass to.
Sumptuous
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images: www.fyzal.com
Just Just the Just the Best! the Just Best! Best! the
www.newcastlestringquartet.co.uk
Best!
www.newcastlestringquartet.co.uk www.newcastlestringquartet.co.uk
Telephone:
&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.
0191Telephone: 285 4200 Telephone: 0191 0191285 285 4200 4200
Alan Mason photography www.newcastlestringquartet.co.uk
Telephone:
0191 285 4200
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. For further help and advice on how this talented musician can make your wedding or special occasion truly memorable, contact: Janet Bennett 13 Broxholm Road Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 5RL Tel: 0191 276 3019
www.janetbennett.co.uk
It’s your day . . . www.masonstudio.co.uk or tel
(01670) 783357
A.J.BridalWear The Old Fire Station, High Street, Newburn, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 58LN
‘Beautiful Gowns, Quality Service, Unique Experience’ T: 0191 2644 688 E: info@ajbridalwear.co.uk www.ajbridalwear.co.uk www.ajbridalwearboutique.co.uk