The Wedding Guide Spring/Summer 2012 - Covering Merseyside, Cheshire, Shropshire & North Wales by Gillian Lane

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Congratulations How exciting, you’re engaged! Congratulations from all the team at The Wedding Guide and welcome to this latest edition which is packed with lots of advice, articles, fabulous recommended suppliers, real wedding features and pages of pretty things to inspire you! The Wedding Guide is designed to help you ﬁnd everything you need to plan your dream wedding. Our recommended suppliers will assist you every step of the way, making sure your special day is one you’ll cherish forever. Don’t forget to check out our handy Wedding Fayre Diary which you’ll ﬁnd from page 136 – great for planning your weekends around!

Gillian x

Gillian Lane, Editor & Publisher

Image courtesy of fotografy

What is this? This is a QR Code, a new type of barcode but with the ability to contain a lot more information. Apps are available on smartphones and the iPhone to enable you to read what a QR Code says - just point your phone’s camera at the Code and it will display the information on screen.

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The Wedding Guide Spring/Summer 2012 Published and distributed by Stoneycroft Publishing Limited Reg. Ofﬁce: 255 Poulton Road, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 4BT Telephone: 0151 638 3008 Email: gillian@theweddingguideuk.com Web: www.theweddingguideuk.com Design & Production: Neil Rees for Sunrisedp Account Manager: Hannah Lomas Administration: Beth Keating Front cover image: Crash Taylor www.crashtaylor.com © 2012 Bridal Media Limited. No material including images, text and design work, contained in The Wedding Guide may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of Bridal Media Limited.

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In this edition... 10-24

A-Z of Wedding Suppliers

Arranging the ceremony

Civil or Church

Helping with your arrangements 42 88 78-79 92 112 56 104 128 120 122

Attendants' Duties Cars and Carriages Finishing Touches Flowers Photography Speeches Stationery Timetable Videography Rings

110

His 52

The Groom

Hers 46 28 36

Hair Dressing for Your Big Day Fashion Pages

The Reception Choosing the Venue Music and Entertainment The Cake Venue Decoration Wedding Fayre Guide Real Weddings

60 106 96 76 136 50, 86 & 110 ...plus lots more!

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ACCESSORIES Beau Bridal by Beaudelia see p83 07976 214409 Email: beaubridal@hotmail.co.uk www.beaubridal.co.uk Boda Bridal see p41 29 Watergate Row, CHESTER CH1 2LE 01244 344 388 Email: wendy@bodabridal.co.uk www.bodabridal.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

BALLOONS Something to Celebrate 62 Seaview Road, Wallasey WIRRAL CH45 4LB 0151 630 5554 Email: STCenquiry@aol.com www.something-to-celebrate.net 10 www.theweddingguideuk.com

The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

BAR SERVICES Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com The Complete Group see p75 Unit 4, Willow Court, West Quay Road, Warrington CHESHIRE WA2 8UF 01925 417425 Email: sales@thecompletegroup.org.uk www.thecompletegroup.org.uk The Mobile Bar see p125 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton CHESTER CH4 0RD 01244 539626 / 07710 373442 Email: info@the-mobile-bar.co.uk www.the-mobile-bar.co.uk

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The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

BEAUTY – HAIR & MAKE-UP Kate O’Malley - Freelance Make-Up Artist see p83 07973 290432 Email: kateomalley75@hotmail.com www.kateomalleymakeup.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

BRIDAL DRESS DESIGNERS Amanda Designs 30 Manorwood Drive, Foxs Meadow, Whiston MERSEYSIDE L35 3UH www.amanda-designs.co.uk Anna May Couture see p31 Upstairs at 152 Banks Road, West Kirby, WIRRAL CH48 0QB 0151 625 1022 Email: help@annamay.co.uk www.annamay.co.uk Opulence Bridalwear see p26, 27&35 Upper Floors, 19-25 The Crescent West Kirby, WIRRAL CH48 4HW 0151 625 9933 Email: mail@opulencebride.co.uk www.opulencebride.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

BRIDAL FAVOURS (BOMBONIERE) Boda Bridal see p41 29 Watergate Row CHESTER CH1 2LE 01244 344 388 Email: wendy@bodabridal.co.uk www.bodabridal.co.uk

Funky Sunflower Events see p81 Covering the North West 07850 054793 / 07914 806410 Email: sarah@funkysunﬂower.com Rebecca@funkysunﬂower.com www.elegantlyfunky.co.uk Sweet Celebration see p103 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton CHESTER CH4 0RD 07973 529464 / 01244 539626 Email: info@sweetcelebration.co.uk www.sweetcelebration.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk Wirral Hospice St John’s see p102 Mount Road, Higher Bebington WIRRAL CH63 6JE 0151 334 0348 Email: barbaraw@stjohnshospice.org www.wirralhospice.org

BRIDAL WEAR Always & Forever Bridal Boutique 80-84 Greenﬁeld Road, St Helens MERSEYSIDE WA10 6SH www.alwaysandforeverbridalboutique.com Amber Bridal 16 Well Street, Ruthin NORTH WALES LL15 1AH 01824 709580 www.amberbridal.co.uk Anna May Couture see p31 Upstairs at 152 Banks Road, West Kirby, WIRRAL CH48 0QB 0151 625 1022 email: help@annamay.co.uk www.annamay.co.uk Belles Bridal Boutique 58 Hope Street LIVERPOOL L1 9BZ 0151 708 1996 Email: geraldine@bellesbridalboutique.co.uk www.bellesbridalboutique.co.uk Bellissima Brides see p41 Brimstage Hall, Brimstage Lane Brimstage, WIRRAL CH63 6JA 0151 342 4440 Email: laura@bellissima-brides.co.uk www.bellissima-brides.co.uk www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Berketex Bride 63 Houghton Street LIVERPOOL L1 1LT 0151 709 2025 www.bbride.co.uk Berketex Bride 116 Foregate Street CHESTER CH1 1HB 01244 321989 www.bbride.co.uk Bespoke Brides Ltd Whitegates, Coalpit Lane Mollington, CHESTER CH1 6LJ 0800 619 9348 / 07973 680741 www.bespokebrides.co.uk Boda Bridal see p41 29 Watergate Row, CHESTER CH1 2LE 01244 344 388 Email: wendy@bodabridal.co.uk www.bodabridal.co.uk Boutique Brides 158 College Road, Crosby LIVERPOOL L23 3DP 0151 287 2475 www.boutiquebrides.com Bows & Bells at Hancock and Wood 25 Bridge Street, Warrington CHESHIRE WA1 2EZ 01925 245606 www.bowsandbells.com/warrington Brides by Tina Louise 60 Telegraph Road, Heswall WIRRAL CH60 0AG 0151 342 8099 www.bridesbytinalouise.co.uk Bridesworld 85 Poulton Road, Wallasey MERSEYSIDE CH44 9DE 0151 638 1337 www.bridesworldwallasey.com Bridesworld 238-240 County Road LIVERPOOL L4 5PJ 0151 525 7142 www.bridesworldliverpool.com Cambric Gowns 43 High Street, Mold, Flintshire NORTH WALES CH7 1BQ 01352 753010 www.cambricgowns.com 12 www.theweddingguideuk.com

Cameo Brides The Hayloft Studio, The Plassey, Eyton Wrexham, NORTH WALES LL13 0SP 01978 781160 www.cameo-brides.com Candystripe Couture 723 Knutsford Road, Warrington CHESHIRE WA4 1JY 01925 631565 www.candystripecouture.co.uk Cherish the Bride see p31 152 Banks Road, West Kirby WIRRAL CH48 0RB 0151 625 0505 Email: help@cherishthebride.co.uk www.cherishthebride.co.uk Cherry Blossoms Boutique Petticoat Lane Building 102 Bold Street, First Floor LIVERPOOL L1 4HY 0151 707 0871 www.cherryblossomsboutique.net Cheshire Brides of Frodsham Pollard Building, 1A Church Street, Frodsham CHESHIRE WA6 7DW 01928 739796 www.cheshirebrides.co.uk Cloud 9 see p77 The Wedding House 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 708 8833 www.cloud9brides.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk Corniche Brides 528 Stanley Road LIVERPOOL L20 5DW 0151 933 5727 www.cornichebrides.co.uk Couture Room Bridal Wear Ltd 60 Mill Lane, West Derby LIVERPOOL L12 7JB 0151 281 4066 www.coutureroom.co.uk Elegance see p33 11 Village Road, Bebington WIRRAL CH63 8PP 0151 609 1161 Email: enquiries@elegance-of-wirral.co.uk www.elegance-of-wirral.co.uk

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Emma Bridalwear 497 Prescot Road, Old Swan LIVERPOOL L13 3BU Tel: 0151 228 7807 Firstlady Ltd 37 Rhosddu Road, Wrexham NORTH WALES LL11 2NS 01978 365006 www.firstladybridal.co.uk Glitz, Ritz & Tiaras 50-52 Wayfarers Arcade, Lord Street SOUTHPORT PR8 1NT 01704 500155 www.glitzritztiaras.net Gwens Wedding Specialists 3 St Mary’s Precinct, Chirk, Wrexham NORTH WALES LL14 5HX 01691 778727 www.gwensbridalwear.co.uk Limited Editions at Opulence see p35 Upper Floors, 19-25 The Crescent West Kirby, WIRRAL CH48 4HL 0151 625 9933 Email: info@limitededitionsatopulence.co.uk www.limitededitionsatopulence.co.uk Lucy Briars 7 Bold Street SOUTHPORT PR9 0DD 01704 542176 www.lucy-briars.co.uk Natalie Ann Brides 17 Childwall Parade, Huyton LIVERPOOL L14 6TT 0151 482 1158 www.natalieannbrides.com Opulence Bridalwear see p26, 27 & 35 Upper Floors, 19-25 The Crescent West Kirby, WIRRAL CH48 4HW 0151 625 9933 Email: mail@opulencebride.co.uk www.opulencebride.co.uk Princess Gowns 247 Rake Lane, Wallasey MERSEYSIDE CH45 5DJ Tel: 0151 639 2299 www.princessgowns.co.uk Shimmering Reflections 12 Brook Street, Neston WIRRAL CH64 9XL 0151 336 7674 / 07900 541728 Email: shimmeringreflections@hotmail.co.uk www.shimmeringreflections.org

Special Daze Bridal & Men’s Formal Wear 46 Albert Road, Widnes CHESHIRE WA8 6JT 0151 420 2798 www.specialdaze.com The Bridal Lounge 145 Linacre Road, Bootle LIVERPOOL L21 8JP 0151 922 4444 www.thebridallounge.co.uk The Bridal Path 222 Childwall Road LIVERPOOL L15 6UY 0151 722 0006 www.bridalpath.info The Bridal Room 24 Birkenhead Road, Hoylake WIRRAL 0151 633 2007 www.thebridalroomhoylake.com The Brides Room of Birkdale 15 Liverpool Road, Birkdale SOUTHPORT PR8 4AR 01704 550991 www.bridesroomofbirkdale.co.uk The Wedding Shop (Cheshire) Ltd 38 London Road, Alderley Edge CHESHIRE SK9 7DZ 01625 584674 www.the-wedding-shop.co.uk Tiffany Couture 122 Mill Lane, Wallasey WIRRAL CH44 3BL 0151 691 1143 www.tiffanycouturewallasey.co.uk Tilly Anna’s Bridal Wear see p33 Unit 3, Top Farm Barn Studios, High Street, Farndon CHESHIRE CH3 6PT 01829 270274 Email: enquiries@tilly-annas.co.uk www.tillyannascheshire.co.uk Wedding Belles Bridal Boutique 23a High Street, Frodsham CHESHIRE WA6 7AH 01928 735688 www.frodshamweddingbelles.co.uk Wife to Be Bridal Boutique 136a Greenway Road, Runcorn CHESHIRE WA7 5BS 01928 563994 www.wifetobe.co.uk www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Winsford Bridal Studio The Coach House 80a Wharton Road, Winsford CHESHIRE CW7 3AE 01606 551967 www.winsfordbridalstudio.co.uk Zyra Bridal Wear 43 Delamere Street, Winsford CHESHIRE CW7 2LX 01606 868009 www.zyrabridalwear.co.uk

BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Anna May Couture see p31 Upstairs at 152 Banks Road, West Kirby WIRRAL CH48 0QB 0151 625 1022 Email: help@annamay.co.uk www.annamay.co.uk Bellissima Brides see p41 Brimstage Hall, Brimstage Lane Brimstage WIRRAL CH63 6JA 0151 342 4440 Email: laura@bellissima-brides.co.uk www.bellissima-brides.co.uk Boda Bridal see p41 29 Watergate Row, CHESTER CH1 2LE 01244 344 388 Email: wendy@bodabridal.co.uk www.bodabridal.co.uk Cherish the Bride see p31 152 Banks Road, West Kirby WIRRAL CH48 0RB 0151 625 0505 Email: help@cherishthebride.co.uk www.cherishthebride.co.uk Cloud 9 see p77 The Wedding House 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 708 8833 www.cloud9brides.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk Elegance see p33 11 Village Road, Bebington WIRRAL CH63 8PP 0151 609 1161 Email: enquiries@elegance-of-wirral.co.uk www.elegance-of-wirral.co.uk 14 www.theweddingguideuk.com

Opulence Bridalwear see p26, 27 & 35 Upper Floors, 19-25 The Crescent West Kirby WIRRAL CH48 4HW 0151 625 9933 Email: mail@opulencebride.co.uk www.opulencecouture.com Tilly Anna’s Bridal Wear see p33 Unit 3, Top Farm Barn Studios High Street, Farndon CHESHIRE CH3 6PT 01829 270274 Email: enquiries@tilly-annas.co.uk www.tillyannascheshire.co.uk

CAKES Arty-Cakes see p97 Kenyon House, Mold Road RUTHIN LL15 1SL 01824 704299 / 07876 682665 Email: annie@arty-cakes.co.uk www.arty-cakes.co.uk Jennifer O’Neill Cakes see p101 The Turret, Thornton Hough WIRRAL CH63 1JL 0151 336 6220 Email: info@jenniferoneillcakes.co.uk www.jenniferoneillcakes.co.uk Pipedreams Cake Design see p101 99-101 Banks Road, West Kirby WIRRAL CH48 0RB 0151 625 2659 Email: help@pdcd.co.uk www.pdcd.co.uk The Cake Shop Liverpool Ltd see p100 Unit 13b, Central Shopping Centre Ranelagh Street, LIVERPOOL L1 1QT 0151 709 6074 www.cakeshopliverpool.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

CARS & CARRIAGES Anniversary Cars see p83 01244 880302 / 07791 396244 Email: enquiries@anniversarycars.co.uk www.anniversarycars.co.uk

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Ashcroft Carriages see p91 Covering the North West 07748 127727 Email: info@ashcroftcarriages.co.uk www.ashcroftcarriages.co.uk Beetles About Covering Wirral, Merseyside, Cheshire & North Wales 07585 268613 Email: info@beetlesabout.co.uk www.beetlesabout.co.uk Belles and Beaus see p90 07821 683621 Email: brianjhaslam@live.co.uk www.bellesandbeaus.co.uk Best Wed Cars see p90 07821 683621 Email: brianjhaslam@live.co.uk Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com Caremore Cars see p89 Unit 8 & 9 Brindley Road, ST HELENS WA9 4HY 01744 818516 Email: caremoret@btconnect.com www.caremorecars.co.uk Rosewood Farm Carriage Company see p91 Cronton,CHESHIRE WA8 4NT 07757 297841 Email: rfcc@hotmail.co.uk www.rosewoodfarmcarriageco.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

CASINOS Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com Fun Casino Royale see p109 Covering the North West 07795 111678 Email: natalie_simpson@msn.com www.funcasino-royale.co.uk

Manhattan Casino Nights see p109 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton CHESTER CH4 0RD 01244 539626 / 07710 373442 Email: mail@manhattancasinonights.co.uk www.manhattancasinonights.co.uk Sapphire Casinos see p83 07984 411 111 / 07984 411 114 Email: FunCasinoHire@me.com www.sapphirefuncasino.co.uk The Complete Group see p75 Unit 4, Willow Court West Quay Road, Warrington CHESHIRE WA2 8UF 01925 417425 email: sales@thecompletegroup.org.uk www.thecompletegroup.org.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

CHAIR COVERS Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com Funky Sunflower Events see p81 Covering the North West 07850 054793 / 07914 806410 Email: sarah@funkysunflower.com rebecca@funkysunflower.com www.funkysunflower.com Heartwood Occasions see p83 The Place Apart, Mollington Banastre Hotel, Parkgate Road, CHESTER CH1 6NN 07581 583351 Email: heartwoodweddings@live.co.uk www.heartwoodoccasions.co.uk Lavender Blue see p95 Church House Farm, Four Crosses NR OSWESTRY SY22 6QZ 01691 839283 / 07787 534169 Email: aileen@lavenderblueevents.co.uk www.lavenderblueevents.co.uk www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Stephanotis Weddings see p85 McKennaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Building, Dock Road WIRRAL CH41 1DQ 07809 606972 email: info@stephanotis-weddings.co.uk www.stephanotis-weddings.co.uk The Complete Group see p75 Unit 4, Willow Court West Quay Road, Warrington CHESHIRE WA2 8UF 01925 417425 email: sales@thecompletegroup.org.uk www.thecompletegroup.org.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

CHOCOLATE FOUNTAINS Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com The Complete Group see p75 Unit 4, Willow Court West Quay Road, Warrington CHESHIRE WA2 8UF 01925 417425 email: sales@thecompletegroup.org.uk www.thecompletegroup.org.uk The Mobile Bar see p125 Cheshire and North West 01244 539626 / 07710 373442 Email: info@the-mobile-bar.co.uk www.the-mobile-bar.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

DIGITAL CAMERA AND CAMCORDER HIRE Unique Celebrations see p121 Based in Neston, Wirral 07815 848 886 Email: uniquecelebrationsnw@gmail.com 16 www.theweddingguideuk.com

DISCOS Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com DJ Paul Manville Covering the North West 07917 670465 / 0151 222 4830 Email: paulmanville@hotmail.com www.djpaulmanville.com Kev Day Roadshow 8 Park Avenue, Hawarden, Deeside, FLINT CH5 3HZ 01244 535419 / 07903 453111 Email: djkevday@aol.com www.kevdayroadshow.co.uk Manhattan Casino Nights see p109 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton CHESTER CH4 0RD 01244 539626 / 07710 373442 Email: mail@manhattancasinonights.co.uk www.manhattancasinonights.co.uk Matt Johnson see p3 Wedding Singer 0845 689 0741 Email: info@ukweddingsinger.com www.UkWeddingSinger.com The Complete Group see p75 Unit 4, Willow Court West Quay Road, Warrington CHESHIRE WA2 8UF 01925 417425 email: sales@thecompletegroup.org.uk www.thecompletegroup.org.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

EXHIBITIONS/WEDDING FAYRES Bliss Wedding Shows see p25 & p135 Celebration Wedding Fayres see p134 Confetti Wedding Show see p142 Exhibition Diary see p136-140 Flaunt Wedding Events see p134 & 141 Funky Sunflower Events see p143 KeeDays see p143

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Precious Moments Bridal Fayres see p140 UK Wedding Shows see p133 WeddingLink see p144

FLOWERS Belles Fleurs Florist 9 Oak Street, Llangollen DENBIGHSHIRE LL20 8NR 01978 861100 www.bellesfleursflorist.co.uk Crystal Flowers see p94 Covering Merseyside, Cheshire And surrounding areas 0151 678 6981 07982 676721 / 07973 753454 Email: info@crystal-flowers.co.uk www.crystal-flowers.co.uk Flori Couture see p95 Covering the North West 07764 767901 Email: info@floricouture.co.uk www.floricouture.co.uk

GIFT REGISTRY/ WEDDING GIFTS Debenhams see inside front cover Unit 15, 42 Lord Street LIVERPOOL L2 1TA 08445 616161 www.debenhams.com/weddings Sweet Celebration see p103 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton CHESTER CH4 0RD 07973 529464 / 01244 539626 Email: info@sweetcelebration.co.uk www.sweetcelebration.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

HEN NIGHTS

Gordale Nurseries Ltd see p93 Chester High Road, Burton South Wirral, CHESHIRE CH64 8TF 0151 336 2116 www.gordale.co.uk

I Need Pampering see p124 129 -131 Ducie House, Ducie Street MANCHESTER M1 2JW 0845 190 1895 Email: info@ineedpampering.com www.ineedpampering.com

Lavender Blue see p95 Church House Farm, Four Crosses NR OSWESTRY SY22 6QZ 01691 839283 / 07787 534169 Email: aileen@lavenderblueevents.co.uk www.lavenderblueevents.co.uk

Lion Quays Waterside Resort see inside back cover Moreton, Oswestry SHROPSHIRE SY11 3EN 01691 684300 Email: weddings@lionquays.com www.lionquays.com

Pure Floral Design see p83 07880 982440 Email: donna@pureﬂoraldesign.com www.pureﬂoraldesign.com

Radisson Blu Hotel, Liverpool 107 Old Hall Street LIVERPOOL L3 9BD Tel: 0151 966 1500 Email: events.liverpool@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.co.uk/hotel-liverpool

The Complete Group see p75 Unit 4, Willow Court West Quay Road, Warrington CHESHIRE WA2 8UF 01925 417425 email: sales@thecompletegroup.org.uk www.thecompletegroup.org.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

The Mobile Bar see p125 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton CHESTER CH4 0RD 01244 539626 / 07710 373442 Email: info@the-mobile-bar.co.uk www.the-mobile-bar.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddingguideuk.com

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HONEYMOONS/ WEDDINGS ABROAD The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk Travel Bureau 69 High Street, Gosforth Newcastle Upon Tyne NE3 4AT 0191 272 6020 dawn@travelb.co.uk www.travelbureaugosforth.com

JEWELLERY Kruger Jewellers see p123 34 Seaview Road, Wallasey MERSEYSIDE CH45 4LA Tel: 0151 639 4431 Email: info@krugerjewellers.com www.krugerjewellers.com The Ring Workshop Ltd see p7 4 Smithﬁeld Street, Oswestry SHROPSHIRE SY11 2EG 01691 238297 Email: enquiries@ringworkshop.co.uk www.ringworkshop.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

LICENSED VENUES

Hilton Liverpool see p67 3 Thomas Steers Way LIVERPOOL L1 8LW 0151 708 4225 Email: Claire.cowley@hilton.com www.hiltonliverpool.co.uk Holiday Inn Ellesmere Port see p69 Lower Mersey Street Ellesmere Port, CHESHIRE CH65 2AL 0151 356 8111 Email: enquiries@hiellesmereport.com www.hiellesmereport.com Holiday Inn Liverpool City Centre see p69 Lime Street, LIVERPOOL L1 1NQ 0151 709 7090 Email: enquiries@hiliverpool.com www.hiliverpool.com Jurys Inn Liverpool Hotel see p71 31 Keel Wharf, LIVERPOOL L3 4FN 0151 244 3833 Email: jurysinnliverpool@jurysinn.com www.jurysinns.com/liverpoolhotels Lion Quays Waterside Resort see inside back cover Moreton, Oswestry SHROPSHIRE SY11 3EN 01691 684300 Email: weddings@lionquays.com www.lionquays.com Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa see p63 Parkgate Road, Ledsham CHESTER CH66 9PB 0151 347 4000 Email: Weddings.craxton@macdonald-hotels.co.uk www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk Plas Isaf Country Farmhouse and Barn see p1 Corwen, DENBIGHSHIRE LL21 0EW 01490 412486 / 07891 501833 email: enquiries@plas-isaf.co.uk www.plas-isaf.co.uk

Bron Eifion Country House Hotel see p5 Criccieth, Gwynedd NORTH WALES LL52 0SA 01766 522385 Email: enquiries@broneiﬁon.co.uk www.broneiﬁon.co.uk

Radisson Blu Hotel, Liverpool 107 Old Hall Street LIVERPOOL L3 9BD Tel: 0151 966 1500 Email: events.liverpool@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.co.uk/hotel-liverpool

Floral Pavilion Theatre see p61 Marine Promenade, New Brighton WIRRAL CH45 2JS 0151 606 2983 or 0151 606 2992 Email: jamescamden@wirral.gov.uk www.ﬂoralpavilion.com

Stobart Stadium Halton see p69 Lowerhouse Lane, Widnes CHESHIRE WA8 7DZ 0151 510 6000 Email: stadium@halton.gov.uk www.stobartstadiumhalton.org.uk

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The Grove House Hotel & Restaurant see p65 Grove Road, Wallasey WIRRAL CH45 3HF 0151 639 3947 Email: reception@thegrovehouse.co.uk www.thegrovehouse.co.uk Vale Royal Abbey see p71 Whitegate, Northwich CHESHIRE CW8 2BA 01606 301291 Email: enquiries@vra.co.uk www.vra.co.uk West Tower Country House Hotel see p66 Mill Lane, Aughton LANCASHIRE L39 7HJ 01695 423328 Email: info@westtower.com www.westtower.com

MAGICIANS Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com The Complete Group see p75 Unit 4, Willow Court, West Quay Road, Warrington, CHESHIRE WA2 8UF 01925 417425 Email: sales@thecompletegroup.org.uk www.thecompletegroup.org.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

MARQUEE HIRE

The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

MENSWEAR Attire Menswear see p55 73 Mill Lane, Wallasey WIRRAL CH44 5UB 0151 200 7000 email: info@attiremenswear.co.uk www.attiremenswear.co.uk Attire Menswear see p55 184 Longmoor Lane, Aintree LIVERPOOL L9 0EL 0151 476 7000 email: info@attiremenswear.co.uk www.attiremenswear.co.uk Groom see p57 1-4 The Courtyard, Horsemarket Street WARRINGTON WA1 1XL 01925 658889 Email: warrington@groomhire.co.uk www.groomhire.co.uk Groom see p57 90 Water Lane, Wilmslow CHESHIRE SK9 5BB 01625 419777 Email: wilmslow@groomhire.co.uk www.groomhire.co.uk Groom see p57 The Wedding House 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 707 9515 Email: liverpool@groomhire.co.uk www.groomhire.co.uk

Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com

Groom see p57 126 Northgate Street CHESTER CH1 2HT 01244 401977 Email: chester@groomhire.co.uk www.groomhire.co.uk

The Complete Group see p75 Unit 4, Willow Court, West Quay Road, Warrington CHESHIRE WA2 8UF 01925 417425 Email: sales@thecompletegroup.org.uk www.thecompletegroup.org.uk

Groom see p57 Albert Square 37 Princess Street MANCHESTER M2 4FN 0161 236 9959 Email: Manchester@groomhire.co.uk www.groomhire.co.uk www.theweddingguideuk.com

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MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com DJ Paul Manville Covering the North West 07917 670465 / 0151 222 4830 Email: paulmanville@hotmail.com www.djpaulmanville.com Kev Day Roadshow 8 Park Avenue, Hawarden, Deeside, FLINT CH5 3HZ 01244 535419 / 07903 453111 Email: djkevday@aol.com www.kevdayroadshow.co.uk Matt Johnson see p3 Wedding Singer 0845 689 0741 Email: info@ukweddingsinger.com www.UkWeddingSinger.com Manhattan Casino Nights see p109 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton CHESTER CH4 0RD 01244 539626 / 07710 373442 Email: mail@manhattancasinonights.co.uk www.manhattancasinonights.co.uk Premier Paparazzi see p107 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton CHESTER CH4 0RD 01244 539626 / 07710 373442 Email: info@premierpaparazzi.co.uk www.premierpaparazzi.co.uk The Complete Group see p75 Unit 4, Willow Court West Quay Road, Warrington CHESHIRE WA2 8UF 01925 417425 Email: sales@thecompletegroup.org.uk www.thecompletegroup.org.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

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OUTSIDE CATERING Feast Al Fresco see p72-73 9 Rock Park, Rock Ferry WIRRAL CH42 1PJ 07940 894120 Email: info@feastalfresco.co.uk www.feastalfresco.co.uk The Mobile Bar see p125 Cheshire and North West 01244 539626 / 07710 373442 Email: info@the-mobile-bar.co.uk www.the-mobile-bar.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHERS Cetra Photography see p115 Cetra Gallery and Studio 50 Pensby Road, Heswall WIRRAL CH60 7RE 0151 342 7777 Email: verity@cetra.co.uk or richard@cetra.co.uk www.cetra.co.uk DJA Photographic 2b Crosender Road, Crosby LIVERPOOL L23 3BB 0151 281 4171 / 07932 035904 Email: djalison@hotmail.co.uk www.djaphotographic.co.uk Ezee Wedding Photos see p119 8A Grange Road, CHESTER CH2 2AN 07989 473208 www.ezeeweddingphotos.com fotografy by J. Cardoso see p117 36 Graylands Road, Port Sunlight WIRRAL CH62 4SB 0151 645 9829 / 07738 365040 Email: info@fotografy.co.uk www.fotografy.co.uk Gary Hill Photography 31 Slatey Road, Oxton WIRRAL CH43 4UE 07729 476322 Email: info@garyhillphoto.com www.garyhillphoto.com

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Jeff Langhorne Photography see p113 07970 866134 Email: enquiries@jefﬂanghornephotography.com www.jefﬂanghorneweddings.com Jim Whitham Photography 01204 576 366 / 07818 045390 Email: info@jimwhithamphotography.com www.jimwhithamphotography.com Keyhole Studios Photography & Videography FACT, 3rd Floor, 88 Wood Street, LIVERPOOL L1 4DQ 0151 708 7077 / 07921 366394 Email@ info@keyholestudios.co.uk www.keyholestudios.com Premier Paparazzi see p107 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton CHESTER CH4 0RD 01244 539626 / 07710 373442 Email: info@premierpaparazzi.co.uk www.premierpaparazzi.co.uk Trev Wilson Photography see p115 07525 354309 Email: info@trevwilsonphotography.com www.trevwilsonphotography.com The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

RECEPTION VENUES

ATHENA’S Greek Restaurant 47-49 Market Street, Hoylake WIRRAL CH47 2BQ 0151 632 0400 Email: ATHENASHOYLAKE@aol.com www.ATHENASHOYLAKE.com

Plas Isaf Country Farmhouse and Barn see p1 Corwen, DENBIGHSHIRE LL21 0EW 01490 412486 / 07891 501833 Email: enquiries@plas-isaf.co.uk www.plas-isaf.co.uk

Bron Eifion Country House Hotel see p5 Criccieth, Gwynedd NORTH WALES LL52 0SA 01766 522385 Email: enquiries@broneiﬁon.co.uk www.broneiﬁon.co.uk

Radisson Blu Hotel, Liverpool 107 Old Hall Street , LIVERPOOL L3 9BD Tel: 0151 966 1500 Email: events.liverpool@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.co.uk/hotel-liverpool

Floral Pavilion Theatre see p61 Marine Promenade, New Brighton WIRRAL CH45 2JS 0151 606 2983 or 0151 606 2992 Email: jamescamden@wirral.gov.uk www.ﬂoralpavilion.com

Stobart Stadium Halton see p69 Lowerhouse Lane, Widnes CHESHIRE WA8 7DZ 0151 510 6000 Email: stadium@halton.gov.uk www.stobartstadiumhalton.org.uk

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RESTAURANTS ATHENA’S Greek Restaurant 47-49 Market Street, Hoylake WIRRAL CH47 2BQ 0151 632 0400 Email: ATHENASHOYLAKE@aol.com www.ATHENASHOYLAKE.com

STATIONERY & INVITATIONS Boda Bridal see p41 29 Watergate Row, CHESTER CH1 2LE 01244 344388 Email: wendy@bodabridal.co.uk www.bodabridal.co.uk Heartwood Occasions see p83 The Place Apart, Mollington Banastre Hotel, Parkgate Road, CHESTER CH1 6NN 07581 583351 Email: heartwoodweddings@live.co.uk www.heartwoodoccasions.co.uk

The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place, LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

SWEET TABLES Sweet Celebration see p103 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton, CHESTER CH4 0RD 07973 529464 / 01244 539626 Email: info@sweetcelebration.co.uk www.sweetcelebration.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place, LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

TEETH WHITENING/ COSMETIC DENTISTRY Chester Smiles see p49 5 Overleigh Road, Handbridge, CHESTER CH4 7HL 01244 677612 Email: info@chestersmiles.com www.chestersmiles.com The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place, LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

TOASTMASTERS The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place, LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

VENUE DECORATION

Precious Moments see p105 First Floor, 152 Banks Road, West Kirby, WIRRAL CH48 0QB 0151 625 2562 Email: help@precious-moments.co.uk www.precious-moments.co.uk

Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com

Sweet Celebration see p103 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton CHESTER CH4 0RD 07973 529464 / 01244 539626 Email: info@sweetcelebration.co.uk www.sweetcelebration.co.uk

Funky Sunflower Events see p81 Covering the North West 07850 054793 / 07914 806410 Email: sarah@funkysunflower.com rebecca@funkysunflower.com www.funkysunflower.com

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Heartwood Occasions see p83 The Place Apart, Mollington Banastre Hotel, Parkgate Road, CHESTER CH1 6NN 07581 583351 Email: heartwoodweddings@live.co.uk www.heartwoodoccasions.co.uk

VIDEOGRAPHY Aaron Rose Wedding Films 0151 286 8383 / 07838 261816 Email: info@aaronrose.co.uk www.aaronroseweddingvideo.co.uk

Something to Celebrate 62 Seaview Road, Wallasey, WIRRAL CH45 4LB 0151 630 5554 Email: STCenquiry@aol.com www.something-to-celebrate.net

Keyhole Studios Photography & Videography FACT, 3rd Floor, 88 Wood Street, LIVERPOOL L1 4DQ 0151 708 7077 / 07921 366394 Email@ info@keyholestudios.co.uk www.keyholestudios.com

Stephanotis Weddings see p85 McKenna’s Building, Dock Road, WIRRAL CH41 1DQ 07809 606972 Email: info@stephanotis-weddings.co.uk www.stephanotis-weddings.co.uk

The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

Sweet Celebration see p103 19 Brookes Avenue, Broughton, CHESTER CH4 0RD 07973 529464 / 01244 539626 Email: info@sweetcelebration.co.uk www.sweetcelebration.co.uk The Complete Group see p75 Unit 4, Willow Court, West Quay Road, Warrington CHESHIRE WA2 8UF 01925 417425 Email: sales@thecompletegroup.org.uk www.thecompletegroup.org.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place, LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

VIDEO KIOSKS/PHOTO BOOTHS Cetra Photobooth see p115 50 Pensby Road, Heswall, WIRRAL CH60 7RE 0151 342 7777 Email: verity@cetra.co.uk or richard@cetra.co.uk www.cetra.co.uk Koodos Wedding Memories see p121 05603 445640 / 07960 639274 Email: info@koodosweddingmemories.co.uk www.koodosweddingmemories.co.uk

WEBSITES/APPS Boda Wedding Moodboard Creator App see p84 29 Watergate Row CHESTER CH1 2LE Email: wendy@weddingmoodboard.co.uk www.weddingmoodboard.co.uk My Wedding Finder/The Venue Finder see outside back cover 08452 601106 Email: info@thevenuefinder.co.uk www.myweddingfinder.co.uk Wedding UK APP see p24 Oakfield House, 31 Main Street East Kilbride, G74 4JU Tel: 0844 504 3701 Email: info@myweddingapp.co.uk www.myweddingapp.co.uk

WEDDING CO-ORDINATORS Big Event Group see p85 Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire 08452 601106 Email: info@bigentertainments.com www.bigeventgroup.com Bliss Weddings 07891 175456 Email: katie@blissweddingsuk.com www.blissweddingsuk.com www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Funky Sunflower Events see p81 Covering the North West 07850 054793 / 07914 806410 Email: sarah@funkysunflower.com rebecca@funkysunflower.com www.funkysunflower.com The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

WEDDING THRONES Stephanotis Weddings see p85 McKenna’s Building, Dock Road WIRRAL CH41 1DQ 07809 606972 Email: info@stephanotis-weddings.co.uk www.stephanotis-weddings.co.uk The Wedding House see p77 3-4 Great George Place LIVERPOOL L1 7AG 0151 709 8283 Email: enquiries@theweddinghouse.co.uk www.theweddinghouse.co.uk

If you are a supplier and would like to be listed as a Recommended Supplier please contact The Wedding Guide team on 0151 638 3008, or email gillian@theweddingguideuk.com.

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The Dress Once the initial excitement of your engagement is over, one of the ﬁrst things you will probably picture when dreaming of your big day is your wedding dress. Your dress is one of the most important wedding items that you will purchase and on the day all eyes will be on you and your gown. Make sure you take enough time to choose one that really suits you and gives you Looking that perfect shape so you look and feel great on your wedding wonderful on your special day. day mea ns being ra Images courtesy of www.maggiesottero.com relaxed a diant and n look and d how you feel in yo ur dress is a k e y element to this.

Remember that you will be standing, walking and dancing throughout the day and evening so your dress should not only look fabulous but should also feel comfortable. With so many choices for your dress, it can be an overwhelming task but remember that shopping for the dress of your dreams should be fun, easy and painless! Before you start, think about what type of dress you are looking for. Wedding dresses are made in several different silhouettes such as the ball gown, empire line, fishtail and ballerina style to name a few. It is important that you know which type of gown will flatter your figure the best. Look at your body shape and be honest with yourself. Consider the features you want to show off and those you want to hide. Here is a rundown of the different wedding dress silhouettes available. 28 www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Avoid halter-necks if you are pear shaped as it really will make your bottom look bigger!

Ball Gowns – One of the most traditional shapes of wedding dress which gives the princess look. The ball gown has a fitted waist with a full, puffed out and layered skirt. This style of dress is best suited to slim brides as it adds curves. For those with a pear shape look, the skirt does wonders to flatter the waist line. It is not ideal for petite women as the fullness of the skirt can be overwhelming to the small frame. A-lines – Usually have a fitted bodice with a skirt that flares gently from the waist to form an "A" shape. They are a terrific choice for someone who would like to hide lower body flaws, but avoid adding too much fussy detailing to your skirt as this will make you look bottom heavy. For those with a slim torso and tiny waist, choose a bodice with detailing on the bust to give more of an even proportion. Ballerina Wedding Dress – The full skirt of the Ballerina dress will give a bride with slim hips and a full bust that fairytale, romantic look. Avoid this style if you are petite as you may look like you are disappearing into this style of dress. The full skirt also makes wide hips appear much bigger. Asymmetrical Wedding Dress – A particularly striking and unusual looking style, the asymmetric design can show off beautiful and toned shoulders to their best and gives that extra help in obtaining that ‘nipped in waist’ look. The asymmetrical dress will divert attention from bigger bottoms to your upper body and if the wearer is on the curvy side the full skirt will balance their shape. To help hide those fuller hips this style of dress can be a godsend. This asymmetric strap design will distract from square shoulders and give them that softer look.

Dress styles left to right: Asymmetrical, Ballgown, Mermaid/Fishtail, and Sheath

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Dress styles clockwise from far left: A Line, Ballerina, Empress, Halter Neck, and Column

This ial ry spec e is a v when fe li r you e to try c time in n he cha e gowns t t e g you quisit any ex ill be on as m ant to. You w so w n u io t o tten as y tre of a le the cen joy the who n relax, e ce and most n experie ave fun! of all, h

Sheath Dresses – This style suits those who are slim, have narrow hips and a balanced figure. This gown will not hide any flaws so if you think your thighs or bottom are too big, this is not the dress for you. Whilst there are some stunning dresses available in this style, you don't want to risk being uncomfortable or self conscious on your wedding day so choose wisely. Empire Waist Gowns – This style of dress is usually straighter than the A-lines without being too figure hugging. The waistline starts just underneath the bust with a seam which falls away to the floor, giving the wearer that ultimate romantic poise. For those with smaller breasts this gown works wonders while the long ‘A’ line gives the more petite bride the appearance of added height. Another advantage of this style of dress is it helps to conceal wide hips. Empire waist gowns are usually made of light, flowing fabric. They are also excellent for pregnant brides, because they provide extra room in the waist, making them a comfortable choice. 30 www.theweddingguideuk.com

Column Wedding Dress – This sleek modern line is very straight and seamed on the waistline. It can be quite figure-hugging and would suit the slim and/or taller bride. It can also be suited to the petite bride because of the unbroken line. Because of the streamlined appearance this style of dress can also be worn well by pregnant brides. This style of dress should be avoided if you have fuller hips as they will be emphasised more. Mermaid Line or Fishtail Gowns – this style is figure hugging, shaping the waist and hips before nipping in at the knees. The mermaid or fishtail comes from the material at the back of the dress that begins at the top of your thighs before flaring out and opening up into the fan shape once it reaches the floor. This dress gives the ultimate sexy look and accentuates a curvaceous, all in-proportion figure. This dress is not suited to a protruding stomach or big hips. Halter Neck Wedding Dress – Athletic shapes can look great in halter-necks and will give added height to the petite shape. If you are curvy with a big bust this style of dress will make you look top heavy and can emphasise your hips. Avoid halternecks if you are pear shaped as it really will make your bottom look bigger. ♥

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Wedding Veils History of the Veil

Veils have been worn at weddings throughout history. Romans wore them to ward off evil spirits, and in the 19th century they symbolised purity and virginity. Now, veils are still an integral part of wedding dress, with most brides choosing to wear a veil for all or part of their day. Many brides now do not cover their face with the blusher, although some still do, in keeping with tradition. Current Trends

Modern-day brides are always looking for something a little different. There are so many different options for brides, with our new collection including face veils, shorter styles, long bustle veils and side combed veils. The predominant trend currently is for an abundance of lace. Our Victorian Inspired collection uses many different laces, sometimes mixed, to create a pretty and delicate effect. The veils of the Victorian period were lacy and often quite heavy in appearance, with varieties of lace such as Tambour, Needlepoint and Valenciennes embellishing centre-back and edges. Almost all examples were floor length and two tiers. Many had gathered volume detail at the comb and Victoria’s example incorporated a floral, circlet headdress of Orange blossoms. This has heavily influenced current veil trends, and after a brief decline, we are seeing more and more brides requesting longer, fuller veils. ♥ Designs by Richard Designs www.richard-designs.com 32 www.theweddingguideuk.com

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All that glitters Depending on your hairstyle and choice of wedding dress, a tiara or hair accessory can turn you into a sophisticated bride or a fairytale princess. Tiaras or bridal hair accessories can complete your whole wedding look, whether you are after a pearl and diamond vintage look, a stunning ďŹ&#x201A;oral headpiece for maximum impact or a simple, elegant headband, the options are endless. The type of headpiece that you choose will 34 www.theweddingguideuk.com

depend on your personal style and budget. You may wish to go for a unique handmade piece which can be designed to match your wedding dress. Or you could browse the readily available pieces in bridal shops or online where you will be totally spoiled for choice! Remember however that you will need to try the pieces on to make sure the one you choose really suits you, will compliment the hairstyle that you have chosen and works well with a veil if you are wearing one. With all the options available, traditionally shaped wire or metal tiaras, decorative hair combs or slides, fascinators and encrusted headbands, you really will be able to add that extra sparkle and glamour on your special day. â&#x2122;Ľ

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Brides Be inspired with our Bridal Fashion pages. From simple sophistication to richly embellished silhouettes, these gowns give an elegant and feminine look. â&#x2122;Ľ Gowns by Impression Bridal www.impressionbridal.co.uk

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Stunning Shoes & Luxurious Lingerie • If you have a simple, ﬁtted dress don’t choose fussy lingerie with lots of detail. • If you lose or gain weight, then the chances are this will affect your bra size, so do get measured regularly. • If your dress is backless or strapless, there is a great selection of bras now with multi-way options or designs suited to these styles. • You will want to feel glamorous and sexy on your wedding day but if your style of dress won’t allow suspenders and frilly briefs, then line up some glamorous, sexy lingerie for the wedding night! • Once you have lined up your wedding day lingerie, why not invest in some cheeky lingerie pieces for your honeymoon to surprise him!

Lingerie Your lingerie choice should, as with your shoes, be comfortable but it should also work perfectly with your dress choice. Choose something that will flatter your figure and complete your look. Top tips when choosing your lingerie: • Get yourself properly fitted to make sure you are wearing the correct bra size. • Consider the colour of your dress and choose your underwear to compliment this. 38 www.theweddingguideuk.com

Choosing your wedding shoes There are several things you'll need to take into consideration before you buy your wedding shoes. Of course you want your shoes to be really special but one of the most important things is comfort as you’ll be on your feet for the majority of the day. There are lots of different styles of wedding shoes to choose from. From white trainers to beautiful designer Jimmy Choo shoes but before you say “I Do” to a pair of wedding shoes, take note of the following tips: • Don't sacrifice comfort for style. You will be on your feet from the moment you get dressed until your last dance – it will be a long day. • Your feet are at their largest at the end of the day. This is a good time to shop for shoes to ensure a good fit. • Choose a heel height that you are used to • Take your shoes to your wedding dress fitting so your hemline will be just the right length. • Break your shoes in by wearing them around the house before the wedding. • To make sure your shoes aren’t too slippery, gently rub the soles with a piece of sandpaper to help provide traction. • Just in case, don’t forget to put plasters in your wedding emergency kit!

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Step out in

STYLE Shoes by Emmy Shoes www.emmyshoes.co.uk

We is love th g n stunni l! detai

Elizabeth – £445

Francesca – £695

Sorrell – £525

Add gentl colou e r delicawith t pinks e

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Heavenly Headwear Why not add a bit of vintage glamour to your look with fabulous bridal hair accessories. Whether you choose a headdress, comb or simple clips, there are hundreds of beautiful styles and one bound to suit you. We’ve picked some of our favourites to inspire you. Cinderellas Dream Barrette - £38 www.ebuni.com

Belinda Large Hair Flower on Comb - £24 www.the-little-things-in-life.co.uk

Pearl Vintage Rose comb - £180 www.emmyshoes.co.uk

Kalina Headdress with Pearls - £115 www.katherineswaine.co.uk

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Your ‘attendants’ Chief Bridesmaid/Maid of Honour When considering who to choose to be your Chief Bridesmaid remember that you will need somebody you can rely on, who will be your rock and a shoulder to cry on in times of stress but also someone you trust to be completely honest and a good organiser (for hen night purposes!). Whether you choose your sister or a close friend, their role will start long before the wedding day and some of the duties involve: • Helping the Bride choose her dress. • Organise the hen party. • Organise an Emergency Kit for on the day (nail ﬁle, safety pins, needle & thread etc). • Attend the wedding rehearsal. • Help the Bride dress on the day and arrange the veil and train before the Bride heads off down the aisle. • Take the bouquet from the Bride during the service. • Be available for anything the Bride might need you for!

What about the Best Man? It is always an honour to be asked to be a Best Man and the role can vary depending on how much help the Groom needs. There are however certain traditional duties that should fall to the Best Man and they are: • Organise the stag party (but make sure nothing terrible happens to the Groom!) • Attend the wedding rehearsal. • Travel with the Groom to the ceremony, keep him calm and make sure he’s on time. • Take very good care of the wedding rings until they are required by the vicar/registrar. • Escort the Chief Bridesmaid down the aisle after the wedding ceremony. • The Big One – The Best Man’s Speech! 42 www.theweddingguideuk.com

}

Their role will start long before the wedding day

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Beautiful Bridesmaids

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Mums want to look fabulous too! As the mother of the bride or bridegroom, you have a long and exciting day ahead of you. Whilst the bride is the centre of attention, the role of the Mums is very important too and all eyes will be on you as well – just look at the press coverage Kate Middleton’s Mum got!

But what better excuse is there for buying a fabulous new outfit? Before you start looking for your outfit, take some time to discuss with the bride suitable colour schemes. You are part of the bridal party and it can be nice for the photographs if you all tone in with the general colour theme of the day. The choice of styles for mothers is very varied - you may decide on the subtle sophistication of a smart tailored suit or the sheer elegance of a soft flowing dress. Hats, shoes and handbags should all be chosen to complement your outfit, and work in harmony with it, along with any jewellery you choose to wear. There are a wide range of boutique shops which specialise in dressing the mother of the bride so it is well worth visiting them as they will provide invaluable help and advice. ♥

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Rem it is be ember, the st tter to we ar yle rather that suits y t h a n think what ou ot yo to we hers expect u ar, as y you ou far mo re com will feel fort and re laxed able the da on y

Images courtesy of John Charles of London www.johncharles.co.uk

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This page: ‘Darcy’. Stockist: Rosie Willet Designs www.rosiewillettdesigns.co.uk. Price: £181 Opposite page, bottom left: ‘Art Deco Fan Comb’. Stockist: Emmy Shoes www.emmyshoes.co.uk Price: £130 Opposite page, top right: ‘Pearl and Crystal Vintage Rose Sweep’. Stockist: Emmy Shoes www.emmyshoes.co.uk Price: £215 Opposite page, bottom right: ‘Bridal Hair Clip – Peony’. Stockist: VictoriaCouture www.etsy.com/shop/VictoriaCouture Price: £8.65

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A detailed s adds headdres short to a glamour a slight cut with subtle wave and volume

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GOOD

HAIR

DAY We’ve picked out some gorgeous yet simple ways to look like a real wedding belle on your big day.

Why ra t no opt fo d a o n low upd e add som a it w h glamour b? hair com

For ho a more bo e os lo a look try h it w braid cascading curls

Why not t ry simp le sw a eepin up g comp do and leme nt t style with he a ﬂora l clip ?

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Dazzling Smiles You may have the beautiful dress and the expensive jewellery but the best thing you can wear on your wedding day is your smile. We would all like to have perfect teeth or at least a beautiful smile especially on your big day. Unfortunately, many of us are cursed with broken, crooked or discoloured teeth. However, with recent developments in cosmetic dentistry, even the most unattractive of smiles can be given a complete makeover. Your wedding photographs should show your happiness for a lifetime and as you start planning your wedding it might be just the right time to consider cosmetic dentistry. From a few fillings to a full smile makeover, the possibilities are endless. A great Cosmetic Dentist will be able to offer you a variety of treatments that will suit your needs, including: Dental implants – if you have any missing teeth and want a replacement that looks and feels natural. Dental veneers – to correct crooked, misshapen, discoloured or chipped teeth. Dental crowns – which cover and encase the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape, size and colour. Invisible braces – to straighten misaligned and crooked teeth. Typically this will take between 6 months and a year and will require regular visits. One treatment that is growing in popularity these days is teeth whitening. Now you can brighten your smile with laser whitening treatments that can lighten discoloured teeth caused by tea coffee, smoking, medication, or ageing. You'll notice the difference immediately... and so will everyone else. In addition to laser whitening there are treatments that you can perform in the comfort of your own home. Custom fitted whitening trays with a professional whitening gel enable you to continue your whitening treatment at home. The combination of the laser and home whitening can give you a dazzling new confident white smile for not only your wedding day, but for years to come. More and more people are opting for some form of cosmetic dentistry because they realise how valuable it is to have a perfect smile. An amazing smile definitely adds to the confidence of a person and there is nothing more stunning than a beautiful, confident bride in a beautiful dress with a beautiful smile. Remember, Cosmetic Dentistry is no longer just for celebrities. You can be the star on your wedding day! ♥ 48 www.theweddingguideuk.com

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H GEMMA & GRA

Weddings Photography by Trev Wilson Photography www.trevwilsonphotography.com

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Gemma and Graham have known each other from their school days and shared a number of mutual friends when they were growing up but their romance started to blossom thanks to a famous friendship website. The couple were engaged on 23rd July 2010 on holiday in Mexico. Gemma says “We revisited a Thai restaurant that we love on the lagoon, this is where Graham first told me he loved me three years earlier- it was all very romantic.” Their wedding took place at 1.30pm on 16th September 2011 at St Nicholas Church, Wallasey Village, Wirral. “It was forecast to rain all week and was threatening to pour down all morning but luckily it held off until after the ceremony and the sun came out later on in the day”. The reception was held at the historic Leasowe Castle, Wirral. The couple chose the venue due to the location to the church and the good wedding package available for their 109 day guests! The original colour theme for the day was Royal Blue - picked by the groom, for his other love, Everton! Gemma says “I couldn't find bridesmaid dresses I liked in this colour, so we settled on Cornflower Blue.” Gemma wore a Madeline Gardner ivory taffeta dress. “I wore a side tiara of pearls and crystals and a full length swarovski crystal veil.”

Memorable Moments: “On the morning of the wedding, Graham's two best men arrived at the hairdressers with a huge bouquet of flowers, a box which contained a pair of diamond earrings, and a scroll with a poem written by Graham. It had everyone in the salon in tears!” “Also for our first dance, Graham had surprised me by doing a professional recording of 'Your Song'. I didn't even know it was Graham singing until half way through the song- that was a real tearjerker for everyone!” Honeymoon: “San Francisco and Oahu, Hawaii.” Gemma’s Top Tip: “Don't moan at your future husband and say he hasn't done anything for the wedding- that came back to bite me! Just take it all in, the day goes so fast. Oh and don't do what I did and open the champagne too early!” ♥ Dress and Tiara: Cherish the Bride (see p31) Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Mori Lee, Madeline Gardner - bought from America Flowergirls’ Dresses: Bhs Menswear: Attire, Mill Lane, Wallasey (see p55) Hair and Makeup: Artistica, Wallasey Flowers: Alright Petal Photography: Trev Wilson Photography (see p115) Videographer: Action Wedding Videos Music and Entertainment: Gray Whitfield Wedding Singer Transport: Wedding Cars - Heritage Motors

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Groomed 5

This page:

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1. John Lewis Men Puppytooth Suit Jacket £150, Trousers £80 2. Dior Homme Intense Eau de Parfum £47 - £65.50 3. John Lewis Men Rectangle Cufﬂinks Black/Metallic £20 4. Seiko SKP381P1 Men's Black Round Dial Watch £225 5. Ted Baker Greco Slim Derby Shoes £100 6. Ted Baker Socks Gift Box, Pack of 3 £25 All items available from John Lewis www.johnlewis.com

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1 3 This page: 1. John Lewis Men Marcello Double Cuff Dress Shirt, White £40 2. John Lewis Men Milled Prince of Wales Suit, Charcoal Jacket £150; Trousers £80 3. Elemis Grooming On-The-Go Men's Travel Trio £22 All items available from John Lewis www.johnlewis.com

Top tips for a gorgeous groom It is very important that the outfit chosen by the groom echoes the style or colours of the bridal party. Once the bride has decided on her colour theme, it is time for the groom to decide on his attire. There are lots of different possibilities when it comes to choosing your formalwear, from tailored lounge suits to a traditional morning suit, the classic Prince Edward or the timeless frock coat. Whatever style you decide on, make sure you feel comfortable in it. The traditional morning suit is a formal jacket with long tails in black, navy, grey or brown, teamed with pin striped trousers in the same or complimentary colours. A traditional cravat can look most effective, although some men prefer a traditional formal tie to complete the look. A modern day suit can look sharp and sophisticated and is ideal for a register ofﬁce wedding or for those grooms who prefer a more informal option. Lightweight summer lounge suits, worn with an open neck shirt, offer a

comfortable choice for overseas weddings in hot climates. For a modern classic, consider the Prince Edward, a three quarter length jacket with contemporary styling and available in a wider range of colours than the morning suit.

Top tips when it comes to choosing your formal wear: • Specialist companies offer good advice: listen to what they say • Take time to visit them in person • Start to rule in or out certain suit styles, find what you feel comfortable in • Book as early as possible to avoid disappointment, aim for at least three months before the wedding • For those finishing touches, wear a double cuff sleeve with cufflinks and ensure your shoes are shiny. www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Jobs for the boys There are a number of ways you can help your bride in the run up to your wedding, especially with some of the planning. Use this timetable to see what you could be doing, and when!

6 - 12 Months Before

q Decide on a budget, and how you are going to

divide your ﬁnancial obligations q Make appointment with clergyman/registrars q Choose your best man and ushers q Plan your honeymoon (check passports, visas,

insurance etc) q Reserve cars or arrange other transportation for

members of the wedding party

3 - 6 Months Before q q q q

Select formalwear Make reservations for honeymoon Check immunisations are up to date Arrange with your ﬁanceé to give Notice of Marriage

2 Months q q q q q q

Buy wedding rings Select gifts for your bride and attendants Check all legal, medical and church documents Conﬁrm honeymoon details and reservations Order foreign currency/travellers cheques Plan stag night

1 Month q Start preparing your speech

2 Weeks q Book haircut

1 Week q Conﬁrm time and place of wedding rehearsal

with attendants q Give ﬁnal wedding guest count to caterers q Pick up wedding rings q Any fees payable on the day should be given to

the best man to deal with q Pack for honeymoon

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Speech! For those who have to make a speech on the big day (traditionally the Father of the Bride, The Best Man and The Groom), it can be a very worrying time. Will people laugh in the right places? Will I be able to get my words out? Will everyone enjoy it? If you don’t take things too seriously and speak from the heart you will be on the right track. Here are a few basic hints and tips to help you on your way... • Remember that your audience understands that the speeches are a big deal, they are warmed to the happiness of the occasion and are on your side. • Try and keep your speech short, if you go on for too long you are likely to lose people. • If you don’t feel conﬁdent memorising the speech, you could use prompt cards. Try to look around the room and engage with people rather than just looking down at the cards. • Consider the range of people in your audience as you don’t want to offend Auntie Mary! Keep it light and funny without being rude, crude or sarcastic. • Try and use a funny memory as your opening line to get a laugh – this will help relax you into the rest of the speech and grabs the attention of the guests. • Remember the correct wedding speech etiquette and don’t forget to thank the right people for all their help. • Finally, don’t panic. If the worst happens and you forget the words just start speaking from the heart and your audience will be applauding for more!

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Location! Location! Religious Church of England There is a lot more ﬂexibility than previously for those couples who wish to have a religious ceremony. You can choose any church outside your parish that either you, your parents, or your grandparents have a connection with. Instead of going to the Superintendent Registrar before the ceremony, banns (a notice of the proposed marriage) can be read in the parish church of both of the partners or in the church where it has been agreed the marriage can take place. Banns must be read on three Sundays before the ceremony. www.churchofengland.org

Roman Catholic Arrangements for a wedding in a Catholic Church are always made through the priest in the parish in which you are living. Three months notice must be given to the priest. Both you and your groom must be free to marry, and one of you must have been baptised a Catholic in order to marry in a Catholic church. You will also need to visit your local superintendent registrar at your local council ofﬁce to give notice of your intention to marry, and obtain your licence.www.catholicchurch.org.uk

Civil ceremonies can take place at any approved venue, which can include hotels, stately homes and castles! 58 www.theweddingguideuk.com

Jewish Weddings

Choos the pe ing rfe venue ct for yo cerem ur ony

Jewish weddings fulﬁl both a religious and civil purpose, but you will still need two applications - one for your local register ofﬁce and one for the religious authority under which the ceremony will take place. Marriages can take place in any synagogue, private house or other place as long as you and your partner are Jewish and the ceremony is held under the auspices of a synagogue. The marriage must be registered by the Secretary of the husband’s synagogue. www.jmc-uk.org

Other Denominations In all other religions, religious marriage ceremonies can take place but you must ﬁrst give notice to the Superintendent Registrar, at your local Register Ofﬁce. They will know whether the building in which the ceremony is to take place has been registered. If the building has not

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been registered, you can still have a religious ceremony, but you will also need to have a separate civil ceremony for the marriage to be valid under United Kingdom Law. If the building is registered, an authorised person must be present at the ceremony to register the marriage. They will give you a marriage certiﬁcate on receipt of the fee. If there is no authorised person, the attendance of a Registrar is necessary and this should be arranged with the Superintendent Registrar. www.adviceguide.org.uk

Civil Register Office In order to marry in a register office, both you and your partner must give notice in person to the superintendent registrar at your local council office. They will then issue you with a certificate of common notice. You will need this certificate to make a booking with the register office to get the date you want. Weddings can be booked no more than 12 months in advance.

Approved Premises Civil ceremonies can take place at any venue that has been approved for the purpose. The venue must be regularly open to the public, and open-air premises will usually need a permanently built structure in order to be approved. Visit www.direct.gov.uk to search for an approved premise in the area you wish to marry. You will need to give notice of your intention to marry to your local superintendent registrar, and contact the local register ofﬁce

closest to the venue you have chosen to book a registrar to conduct the ceremony. www.direct.gov.uk

Overseas Overseas Weddings Weddings abroad are recognised as legal as long as they do not contravene UK laws. You should contact the country's embassy or consulate for advice to make sure you have the right documents and ﬁnd out when you will need to provide them. A number of countries require a minimum residency period of between one and seven days before you are free to marry there. It can often be easier to have a civil ceremony in the UK followed by a blessing abroad due to the complications sometimes involved in marrying in a different country. www.fco.gov.uk

Legal Advice • You and your partner must both be at least 16 years of age. (In England and Wales, if either of you is under 18 you will need to have permission from your parents or guardian). • You must both be eligible to marry. • You must not be closely related. • The marriage must take place in legally approved premises. • The marriage must take place in front of an authorised person. • The ceremony must take place between 8am and 6pm. • Two witnesses must be present.

www.adviceguide.org.uk

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Choosing your reception venue You may already have a dream wedding location in mind or you may be starting with a blank page. Either way, choosing your wedding venue is one of the ďŹ rst and most important decisions you will make.

The choices a re endless a n d w here you choos e to hold your reception wedding w to dictate ill help you and them the style eo whole da f the y

endless There are likely to be two parts to your wedding and where to organise, the wedding ceremony and the you choose wedding reception. You may have your heart set will help you to on a traditional Church ceremony which is still a dictate the style favourite choice for couples. If this is the case and theme of your wedding. then the reception should be planned around the The venue must be able to accommodate the Church location. You will need to consider ease of number of guests you transport for your are inviting so you guests from the Properly planned, your should have a good idea ceremony to the reception will become one of numbers before you reception venue. The of the most joyous parties start looking around. second option is a civil you will ever host Importantly the cost of wedding where your the venue must suit your ceremony and budget. Castles, country houses and stately homes reception will be held at a licensed venue. are among the locations many dream of for their When you have decided on a Church or Civil big day but consider your budget carefully. Ceremony there are certain factors to consider. Properly planned, your wedding reception will Firstly, the venue must look and feel right to you. become one of the most joyous parties you will You may have a particular style of venue in mind ever host, so remember to savour every minute for example, a Castle, a Manor House or and enjoy it! â&#x2122;Ľ somewhere dramatic or chic. The choices are 60 www.theweddingguideuk.com

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A UNIQUE VENUE FOR YOUR MARRIAGE CELEBRATION The Floral Pavilion Theatre and Conference Centre provides the perfect setting for your special day. The striking architecture of this contemporary building combines with its beautiful surroundings to create a dramatic and elegant backdrop. A unique location to create lasting memories.

r In house catering & private bar r Licensed to perform Civil Marriage Ceremonies

r Catering for all requirements from an

intimate Civil Ceremony to a large high quality reception

r Terrace overlooking Mersey estuary For more information contact: Jim 0151 606 2983 or Tom 0151 606 2992 jamescamden@wirral.gov.uk or tomforth@wirral.gov.uk www.floralpavilion.com Floral Pavilion, Marine Promenade, New Brighton, Wirral, CH45 2JS. VAT Reg. No. 165565540

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Your Civil Ceremony It is now possible to get married in any Register Office or Approved Premises in England or Wales. Any marriage taking place anywhere other than the Church of England, requires both of you to attend personally at the district register office where you live. If you live in separate districts, you must attend the office of each district. This is called 'giving notice of intention to marry'.

Giving notice of intention to marry: • You must both have lived a minimum of 7 days in a Registration district in England or Wales immediately before giving notice at that office. • You can give the notice a maximum of 12 months in advance of your marriage date. • Both of you must attend to give a notice and this should be done by making an appointment to attend at the same time. • Recent legislation has abolished the Superintendent Registrars Licence which had previously allowed a marriage to take place three days after signing a notice, so make sure you enquire in good time.

Documents you will need: • A current valid passport (or where appropriate, a Home Office Travel Document, a standard acknowledgment letter, or a National Identity Card). • If you cannot provide this then a birth certificate and another document with your full name such as a cheque book, cheque guarantee card, utility bill or driving licence and a document to confirm your current address such as utility bill or driving licence. • For people who have been married or entered into a civil partnership before; decree absolute, death certificate or dissolution of civil partnership. • For people who have legally changed their name; documentary evidence in the form of a deed poll or declaration. • All documents should be certified or sealed 62 www.theweddingguideuk.com

photocopies are not acceptable. Civil Marriages can take place in Approved Premises licenced by the appropriate local authority. It is therefore possible to have your marriage ceremony and wedding reception in the same building, many of which are available on any day of the week, including Sundays and Bank Holidays. There are now thousands of Approved Premises in England and Wales. The conditions of the premises licence are regulated by local authorities and it is necessary for Registrars to be in attendance at the venue for the ceremony. There will be two registration staff present at your wedding, one to conduct the ceremony and one to register the event in the marriage register. You should discuss the form and content of your ceremony with the Register Office, as you can choose to personalise your ceremony with the addition of your choice of readings, or your own vows. Immediately before the wedding, The Registrar has a legal requirement to see you both privately (and individually if you prefer) to confirm the details to be entered into the marriage register. Remember to ask The Registrar about taking photographs and videos during the ceremony itself, and don't leave this detail until the actual day. ♥

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Wines&Spirits Most reception venues should offer an extensive wine list for you to choose from to suit any budget. However if your venue’s wines are very expensive or if you just don’t like them then bringing in your own wine could be the answer.

Off licences or wine merchants can provide wines, beers and spirits, plus portable bars, glasses and staff. Most specialists will also provide the correct coolers and gases for draught beer, and many will offer a sale or return facility, although you may be better off negotiating a good deal on the wine and then having plenty left over to look forward to after the wedding.

What to offer your guests There are three main drinks served at a wedding: the ﬁrst reception drink, which is often something bubbly and usually served with small canapés before the wedding breakfast; the drink used to toast the happy couple during the speeches, which is usually Champagne; and the wines, both red and white, to accompany the wedding breakfast. Don’t forget you’ll need to provide soft drinks for children, drivers and non-drinkers too, and after the wedding breakfast there is usually a bar for guests to enjoy, while they dance the night away. When ordering, allow at least half a bottle of wine per person to give you an idea of the number of cases you will need.

Reception drinks If you want to impress, serve your guests Champagne or Champagne cocktails. For something a little more unusual how about a Bellini or a Mimosa? Pink Champagne is a pretty option and perfectly ties in with a pink colour scheme; the very regal sounding Kir Royale always looks super stylish and provides the ideal alcoholic accessory to a wedding with a red colour scheme. A warm mulled wine is the perfect answer to a winter wedding, or you could get really creative and design your own colour 64 www.theweddingguideuk.com

scheme matching cocktails. You should expect each guest to have one to two drinks before the wedding breakfast.

For the Toast When it comes to the all important toasting of the bride and groom, producing a true bottle of Champagne will certainly leave a lasting impression on your guests. There are different styles of Champagne: ranging from Brut, which is very dry, to Demi Sec, which has a sweeter taste, and vintage labels, made from grapes of one speciﬁc year. To earn the right to have the word Champagne on the bottle, however, it must be entirely produced from the Champagne region of Northern France. There are other options of course, and many sparkling wines are an excellent alternative which may also be easier on your budget.

Bar options There’s nothing like a free bar at a wedding but if your family or friends are heavy drinkers then some guests may take advantage. Limiting drinks, or the money placed behind the bar, can help. A compromise here is to let guests know there will be a free bar for the ﬁrst two hours and then a pay bar after that. If you can afford it a free bar is the way to go, but if the budget is tight it’s ﬁne to have a pay bar, as long as you let your guests know in advance. If you’re holding your reception in a local village or church hall then you could consider hiring a mobile bar. Screen printed, personalised bottles of wine, or a selection of minatures can also provide a fashionable gift for your guests, and absent friends and family. ♥

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The Package... • A Three Course Wedding Breakfast based on a set menu (A,B or C), with Coffee. • Bucks Fizz or Wine on arrival and during your meal • French sparkling wine for your toast. • Flowers for your tables • Table linen and cloth napkins • Evening buffet. • Disco & Dance Floor • Cake Stand

• Red, rose or white wine on arrival • Red, rose or white wine during your meal. • French sparkling wine for your toast. • Flowers for your tables • Cake Stand

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How your day should flow The Ceremony

The Reception

• The ceremony should start with the processional (entrance of the bride), the introduction, the marriage and optional readings. This is followed by the signing of the register, and the service ends with the recessional (exit of the couple). • At a religious ceremony, the introduction would be followed by a hymn, and prayers and a blessing would follow the marriage. • If your ceremony includes any hymns or songs it is usual to provide an order-of-service so that your guests can join in with the singing. • While the order of the ceremony is similar for both religious and civil ceremonies, you need to remember that no religious references are allowed at a civil ceremony. Check the words and lyrics of your chosen readings and music carefully, before submitting them to your registrar for their approval.

• On arrival, ushers should show guests where to park before directing them into the venue. • Friends and family should be welcomed, either with a traditional receiving line or by circulating the room. • It is normal to serve canapés while friends and family are gathered for the formal photographs. • Photographs are followed by the Wedding Breakfast. Speeches are increasingly taking place before the meal, allowing nervous speakers to get them out of the way and leaving them free to enjoy the meal. • After-dinner speeches are usually followed by the cutting of the cake, which can then be served with the coffee and mints. • The evening reception usually begins with your ﬁrst dance. • It is traditional for guests to stay until the bride and groom leave.

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Civil Partnerships • Duty to provide reasonable maintenance for your civil partner and any children of the family • Ability to apply for parental responsibility for your civil partner’s child • Protection from domestic violence • Recognition for immigration and nationality purposes

Following the Civil Partnership Act of 2004, same sex couples can now make a formal, legally recognised commitment to each other by entering into a Civil Partnership. Civil partners will have equal treatment in a wide range of legal matters like married couples, including: • • • •

Tax, including inheritance tax Employment benefits Most state and occupational pension benefits; Income related benefits, tax credits and child support

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In a similar way to traditional marriages, a couple must give notice of a proposed civil partnership to the local register office, even if they intend to register elsewhere. They can only do this once they have lived in the area for at least seven days. Each of them must give this notice in person. The notice must include where the couple wish the civil partnership registration to take place. Once notices have been given, the register office must keep information relating to the notices on public display for 15 days. This should be in both the area in which the registration is to take place and in the area in which both partners live. The registration cannot proceed until the 15day waiting period has passed for each of the notices. This is to allow any person to make an objection in a similar way to a marriage. Once the 15-day waiting period has expired, if there are no objections to the registration of the civil partnership and no legal reasons why it cannot go ahead, the register office must provide the couple with a legal document called a civil partnership schedule. The couple will need this in order to register a civil partnership. A civil partnership must be registered within 12 months of the first notice being recorded. If registration is not done within this time limit, they cannot register without starting the process again. Two people are regarded as having registered a civil partnership once each of them has signed the schedule or licence in front of two witnesses and the civil partnership registrar. The witnesses and registrar must also sign the document. A Civil Partnership Ceremony is similar to a traditional civil wedding, with opportunities for music and readings that are secular in nature. ♥ For further info visit www.civilpartnerships.org.uk.

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A Feast fit for a

Marianne and John wanted to organise a wedding that was a bit different and one that was personal to them. After the ceremony at Ashbourne Town Hall, welcomed in by the town crier, the main celebrations took place at the foothills of the Peak District in a marquee they had set up in a farmer’s field. In doing this it meant that they could add the their own personal touches to the event. With relatives and friends staying in local cottages, guesthouses and campsites they created a British countryside theme, with anything from farmer Giles to Lord and Lady of the Manor. 72 www.theweddingguideuk.com

The groom and ushers were decked out in tweed breeks, the bridesmaids in a rainbow of 1950s inspired prom dresses and guests were invited to bring their wellies (just in case!). The traditional marquee was decorated with homemade bunting, a traditional English telephone box and a red post box, a fancy dress corner and plenty of moustaches creating the atmosphere of a country fete. The fabulous food was provided by outside caterers . A selection of four different types of canapés was served during welcome drinks by the friendly staff and pink champagne was served to help to set the mood. Music for the afternoon was provided by Ashbourne Town Brass Band. Marianne and John opted for a traditionally spit roasted hog and lamb, with a vegetarian option, for their wedding breakfast but they could also have chosen from ‘s wide menu of hot and cold meals. Freshly prepared Mediterranean salads were served with the roast lamb or hog, which was followed by a selection of homemade desserts, banofﬁ pie, dreamy chocolate cake and honey and pistachio

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Wedding cheesecake made by ’s owner – Tricia. The caterers dealt with everything from serving meals, desserts to staffing and running the bar, to the teas and coffees served at the end of the meal. They brought everything with them and left no mess behind. “Having outside caterers for our wedding meant that we were able to create the personalised event that we wanted, rather than working within the confines of selected venue caterers and doing ‘the usual thing’. were happy to work with our ideas and fit in everything that we wanted, they provided fresh, supreme quality food with first class service for our guests and we couldn’t recommend them highly enough.” “On your big day, everything should go smoothly and with we had one less thing to worry about, they were professional, attentive and they brought personality to the event.”

After the afternoon festivities and meal, the evening entertainment was provided by a selection of DJs and the party continued right into the night with lots of fancy dress, many more smiles and heaps of dancing. ♥

07940894120, info@feastalfresco.co.uk www.feastalfresco.co.uk www.theweddingguideuk.com

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MAGICAL For a completely different reception venue, have you thought about choosing a marquee? For many couples, a marquee offers the only option of spending their Wedding Day where they feel most comfortable. A marquee structure can provide the space to entertain sometimes literally hundreds of guests for a one-off, never to be forgotten event. By choosing a marquee couples can gain considerable control over their wedding, ensuring all the details are those they have chosen, not those that have been chosen for them.

A traditional marquee Traditional marquees can be used to create the perfect venue for your needs. Choose from reception porches, chill out areas, annexe for bands, bars and discos, marquees for the reception meal, marquees just for dancing, marquees for younger guests, catering marquees, and walkways to toilets to truly personalise your reception. For a more “rural” effect traditional marquees can be left unlined and uncarpeted. But, for that sophisticated feeling, linings, swags and new carpets will give a stunning effect. Add to that specialist lighting, a range of furniture and many other accessories……you will be delighted with the special venue created for your special day.

Kata tents and tipis Based on designs developed by the Sami people

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of Lapland the Kata tent and tipis have developed into the must have venue for any event. The tents are really flexible and can cater for just about any size and type of event: they can be used alone or joined together, with their sides raised or lowered to create just the right space. White drapes, colour coordinated interior and mood lighting mixed with carefully arranged and chosen furniture will help you create your perfect wedding venue. Kata tents and tipis can be used to provide the perfect venue for a stunning winter wedding as the tents are designed to be warm and cosy in cold weather. You can also request finishing touches that will make sure you stay totally snug an open wood-burning fire, real reindeer hides to sit on, and of course plenty of heaters.

Wedding yurts Wedding yurts have been designed to host intimate wedding receptions and are the perfect alternative to a traditional marquee. The yurts are hand~crafted out of sweet chestnut wood, covered in cream canvas and can really enhance any special event. The yurts are wonderfully versatile and can be erected inside or outdoors, in a ﬁeld, a garden or your chosen wedding venue. Choose from a treasure chest of sumptuous decorations and sparkling lights to help create the perfect ambiance for your ceremony, reception or party. The yurts are a beautiful blank canvas for you to create whatever your heart desires. ♥

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Vintage Having a completely Vintage Wedding is a very popular choice for many of today’s brides. Taking inspiration from ‘something old’ whether it be an Edwardian lace wedding gown or a stunning piece of Art Deco jewellery can bring a timeless elegance to your wedding. There are many different aspects to consider when it comes to your vintage wedding such as the use of vintage lace and pearls and incorporating the faded antique colours of pale greens, soft creams, dusty pinks, antique golds and muted mochas in your ﬂowers, cakes, stationery and bridesmaids dresses. Vintage can mean anything from traditional Hollywood glamour, the Art Deco period, Victoriana or Edwardian elegance to the roaring forties.

See over the page for

Vintage Finishing Touches

If you love the timeless twenties then an Art Deco wedding could be the one for you. Silver candelabras draped in strings of pearls would provide the perfect table centrepieces. Other ideas would be to include ostrich or marabou feathers in your bouquets, use the art work of the period on your stationery, use martini glasses for your favours and have an elegant cocktail drinks reception to the music of the period provided by a Swing band. 76 www.theweddingguideuk.com

You might decide that Edwardian elegance is more for you. A lace wedding dress could be accompanied by a hand-tied seasonal flower bouquet with antique lace used to tie the stems. Centrepieces could be created from antique gilded bird cages filled with dusky pink and sage green flowers and your wedding cake could be decorated with fresh flowers and antique lace. Whatever you decide, don't forget about those all

important finishing touches. Vintage cars are very easy to find, and there are some photographers who specialise in vintage photography. There are also a number of other companies who specialise in vintage weddings, from providing vintage china for your reception to period clothing for your guests. You could also speak to local theatre companies as they might be able to provide you with a number of props such as gramophones or antique luggage to help you really set the scene!

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The Wedding House is based in the iconic gothic building, next to the imposing Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. We are home to over 30 companies, that are all here to help make your day as special as you. Step through the doors of the beautiful listed building ERH ]SY [MPP Â˝RH JSYV ÂžSSVW of specialist suppliers, with one thing in mind, to create the perfect day for you.

The Wedding House, 3-4 Great George Place, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 7AG. Tel: 0151 709 8283 www.theweddinghouse.co.uk Open 7 days a week with FREE PARKING

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Vintage UCHES O T G IN H IS IN F

£1.95 pp HIRE

£7.00 HIRE

£20

£65

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£4.50

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£38

£1.95 pp HIRE

£6 £4.00 HIRE

£5.00 HIRE

Stockists

Vintage & Cake www.vintageandcake.co.uk Velvet www.velvetstore.co.uk

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HOW TO GIVE YOUR RECEPTION

The Wow Factor When you visit a potential wedding venue there may be certain aspects that you absolutely love and some that you don’t love quite so much! If you are concerned about the decor then there is no need to worry, there are companies that can provide you with services that can transform a typical function room into a breathtaking vision that you and your guests will never forget.

If you are after a dreamy, romantic atmosphere why not go for swags of tulle, clusters of white balloons and twinkling fairy lights. You can create a sophisticated, timeless look by using the same items but add in sumptuous floral arrangements and candles. Whatever look you want to create, there will be someone who can create it for you. But be mindful of the canvas you are working with. If your venue is a historic building then you don’t want to cover beautiful plush walls with 12 ft banners. So don’t fight against what you have to work with but consider your surroundings carefully and work with them. You should also consider the lighting of the room. Subtle Lighting defines the mood of a space, it can create warmth, intimacy, romance and style. Tables at your reception can be brought to life with the addition of simple tea lights or tall candles mixed in with your floral arrangements. Up-lighting around a marquee or room will allow you to take control of the lighting, even during the day, transforming the atmosphere of your venue. You could even choose to match the colour of the lights to the overall colour scheme of your day. Specialist lighting can have a huge impact on your first dance, creating a truly romantic feel to capture on video. Lighting can also be used to 80 www.theweddingguideuk.com

create a simple "chill out" area where people can relax and unwind away from the disco. For even more ideas, speak to a lighting designer or your wedding planner. Be careful not to clutter the venue with too much decoration, less is usually more! A good venue decorator and lighting specialist will help and guide you make the right choices to create a stunning look so that when your guests arrive, they think WOW. ♥

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MAKING LIFE EASIER WITH A

Wedding Co-ordinator The average bride spends 250 hours planning her dream wedding, the equivalent of six weeks full time work, trying to put together the most magical and memorable day of her life. There is real skill involved in turning that fantasy into reality and an experienced wedding co-ordinator will be able to help you realise your dreams, whether on a small or grand scale, traditional or contemporary, in a city or countryside setting. A wedding co-ordinator can save you valuable time searching for the right venue or supplier. They can reduce stress, save you money and help provide professional event co-ordination on the day. Some of the key elements of what a wedding co-ordinator can do for you are: • Help you set a realistic budget and stick to it! • Help you find a venue and secure the booking; • Deal with the suppliers including the florist, caterers, photographers, entertainment etc.; • Develop a schedule and work plan and ensure you keep track of progress; • Send out invitations for you and collate the replies; • Advise on wedding etiquette and help diffuse stressful situations, such as dealing with seating plans without offending relatives; • Deal with the hire of any outfits and ensure they are returned on time; • Advise on any new trends, suggesting creative ways to make your wedding unique; • Manage the invoices from suppliers and advise you of the final costs; • Negotiate preferential rates with suppliers; • Keep you fully informed throughout the whole process; • Supervise the wedding day to ensure everything runs to the timetable and manage the bridal party and ushers, reminding them of their responsibilities. 82 www.theweddingguideuk.com

Save valuable time and minimise stress with a Wedding Co-ordinator

An increasingly popular choice for those brides who have planned their own wedding day is to hire an 'on-the-day' co-ordinator who can take care of the day behind the scenes. They can help with common concerns such as: • What happens on the big day? • Do I have to keep my mobile phone close by in case of an emergency? • What do I do if there are any late minute emergencies, such as the ﬂorist hasn't turned up or the venue has been dressed incorrectly? An 'on-the-day' co-ordinator can solve any problems quickly and quietly to ensure everything runs smoothly in exactly the way you want, leaving you free to enjoy your special day. ♥

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SITTING PRETTY ON YOUR WEDDING DAY Chair covers are a fabulous way to transform a room from drab to dreamy and create a welcoming ambience for guests. These days, chair covers are becoming ever more popular and are now seen as a wedding day must-have. Covers are usually provided by independent venue dressers or specialist chair cover companies or the ceremony/reception venue. It is an idea to choose a company who is familiar with the venue, as this will ensure that they are aware of the style and shape of the chairs. Most chair cover companies will arrive in good time to help dress the venue and usually arrange with the hotel to pick them up the next day – one little less worry. Some companies do offer chair covers online, however theses will be delivered to your home and it will be your responsibility to dress the chairs on the day. As you won’t be doing this yourself it will be up to the venue staff to dress the chairs. However, venues may charge extra for this service, so it is advisable to hire instead of buy. ♥

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PAUL & KATE

Weddings Photography by Cetra Photography www.cetra.co.uk

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Kate first shared a kiss with Paul at the tender age of 11 when even then she thought it was love at first sight. They were then reunited many years later at a friend’s 18th birthday party and have remained together ever since. Kate says “I think we always knew we were soul mates and were always meant to be together”. On Christmas day morning in 2009 Kate had the most amazing surprise. “I had opened all my presents and then Paul presented me with a large box full of red rose petals and inside was a small ring box. Paul got down on one knee and recited a poem of our days together, the final line being… would I be his fiancée? Of course the answer was yes. It was the most amazing moment…. worth the wait!” The wedding took place at 1pm on 31st July 2011. Both the ceremony and reception took place at Hillbark Hotel. Kate says “As soon as we first set eyes on Hillbark Hotel we knew this was the venue where we wanted to get married. It blew us away, from the magnificent building and its beautiful surroundings, to the wonderful gallery walk were I would make my entrance. It was also the friendliness and attentiveness of all the staff we encountered that sealed the deal”. Kate wore a beautiful one piece Trudy Lee ivory satin gown. The sweetheart bodice was heavily embellished with embroidery and crystals and the V-shaped waistline gave way to the full skirt, decorated to match the bodice. The finishing touch was the long train with detailed carriage back.

Memorable Moments: “ Having all of our family and friends sharing the most special and amazing day was extremely overwhelming for us both. One of our favourite moments was towards the end of the night when our photographers sneakily tricked us into the centre of the lawn for more photographs… or so we thought. With all our guests behind us on the lawn the most spectacular ﬁrework display began which took our breath away. I don’t think either of us will ever forget that moment.” Honeymoon: “Le Blanc Spa, Cancun, Mexico, the most amazing spa hotel.” A Note From Kate: “Just savour every moment, it goes by so quickly so enjoy every second. A more practical piece of advice is to ensure you choose a reliable photographer and videographer so you can relive the day over and over again!.”. ♥ Dress: The Bridal Room, Hoylake Bridesmaids’ dresses: Linda Simons (Dressmaker) Menswear: Attire Menswear, Wallasey (see p55) Hair: Lynsey at Artistica, Wallasey Make-up: Michelle Louise Wild at Euphoria Spa, Wallasey Flowers: Carole’s Classic Florist Invitations: Inviting Wedding Invitations Photographer: Cetra Photography (see p115) Videographer: Action Wedding Videos Music and Entertainment: Marc Kenny Wedding Rings: Luke Rose Jewellery Venue Decoration: Heartwood Occasions (see p83)

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Your carriage awaits

Wedding cars have been getting brides to the church in style for years. It’s one aspect that usually stays true to tradition, with brides opting for vintage or classical cars such as a Rolls Royce, Daimler, Bentley or Limousine for transport. However, for the more adventurous bride there are other alternatives that are sure to make an impression as you pull up to the church. Other options include: Horse drawn carriage, VW Vans, Mustangs, Lamborghinis and even Beetles or Minis.

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The Car It is important to book your transport about 6 months ahead and visit car companies that are local so that they are familiar with the route and have a good idea of trafﬁc conditions. Cars usually have white ribbons running along the front but these can be changed to match the theme of the day if you wish. The price usually includes a complementary bottle of champagne; however there may be extras, such as requested music, for an extra charge. You also need to know how many cars you will need: Which car will take you, which car will take the bridesmaids. As the bridesmaids usually arrive before the bride it is advisable to have separate cars that leave at different times.

The Carriage If you really want to go for the Wow factor on your wedding day, then a horse drawn carriage is for you. The carriages themselves can range from the classic Landau to fairytale replicas. Again, it is very important to visit the carriage company well in advance so you can view the carriages and decide what you want for the day. You must remember that the horses will have to stand still for long periods of time and trafﬁc on the road can prove stressful for them so choose a reputable company that has good experience with horses. Finally, don’t forget that horses move much slower than cars, so make sure you leave enough time to get to the church and that the roads are suitable for the ride. ♥

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Marvellous An artistic ﬂorist will be able to suggest a range of stunning designs for your wedding bouquet and ﬂoral arrangements that complement your dress, the theme of your wedding and the ceremony venue.

Make sure you are prepared for your consultation. Try to take with you samples of the fabric that will make up your dress, and colour swatches for your gown, the bridesmaids’ dresses and groom's formalwear, as the ﬂorist will need this information to help them prepare ideas of beautiful arrangements for you. The traditional colours for a bridal bouquet are ivory and white, but don't be afraid to add a hint of colour for that element of understated sophistication. The groom's buttonhole should be worn on his left lapel, and should echo the bride's bouquet. This is to celebrate the tradition of a Knight wearing his Lady's colours to display his love.

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The ushers and groomsmen should wear a slightly different flower on their lapel, but it should also feature in the main bouquet. Bridesmaids’ flowers will also differ from your bouquet, but should still coordinate with the general floral theme, as should corsages for the mothers and buttonholes for the fathers. Flowers could be selected for personal reasons, or because of what they traditionally represent, i.e. Lilies represent majesty, roses symbolise love, freesias symbolise purity, and baby's breath represents innocence. Silk flowers are becoming more popular too, enabling you to choose exquisite imitators that will last a lifetime. Buying flowers in season can save you money, so pick flowers according to the time of year and be ecofriendly too! It is always a good idea to request that your florist give you an itemised bill in advance, and make sure that you in turn supply the florist with the names, addresses, and times for delivery of your bouquet, buttonholes, corsages and floral arrangements. You'll need a number of other floral pieces for your wedding, including displays for the altar, centrepieces for reception tables, sprays for candelabra, corsages for those who assist with various reception duties, and floral "tokens" for special guests. Ask your florist for guidance. Their artistry, knowledge of wedding protocol and ability to listen to your needs will ensure that you'll get good value for your money, and have the perfect floral accents to enhance your wedding day. ♥

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Discover the difference Gordale can make to your wedding day.

s you would expect, at Gordale we know a thing or two about flowers. So it stands to reason that we’d know a thing or two about which varieties would complement your special day perfectly. Our Floristry Department has the expertise and know-how to create the perfect bouquet, corsage or button holes, as well as the creativity to amaze your guests with a fully dressed church and reception venue - setting that all-important tone that’s right for you, the season and the big day. And because we have a unique and varied range of gifts, you’ll find the ideal ‘thank you’ for your Bridesmaids, Ushers – and even the Best Man. For full details and to arrange a visit, simply log on to our website, or call on 0151 336 2116 and ask for the Floristry Department. A bouquet so perfect, everyone will want to catch it. Gordale - more than just a garden centre

Gordale

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FOR BEAUTIFUL HOMES AND GARDENS

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What questions should I be asking... ... the Florist? q q q q q q q q q q

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Can I see examples of your work? Are you the recommended florist of my venue/any other venues? How many weddings will you be doing on the same day as mine? Will the florist I have consulted be the person who actually does the flowers on the day? What seasonal flowers could you recommend for the time of year I am getting married in? Is there a maximum distance you will travel to arrange the flowers in the venue? Do you charge for any breakages? How long do you need to set up? Can your services be adapted to suit my budget? Does the cost include any additional charges and VAT?

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Yummy Scrummy

Cakes

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Nowadays your wedding cake can be any style, shape, flavour and colour you want

Wedding cakes have been a staple of a traditional British wedding since the Tudors’ first creation measuring a whopping 30” x 16”. However it wasn’t until the Victorian era that tiers where first introduced that mirror the cakes we recognise today. It is thought that a London baker took inspiration from the aptly named St Bride’s Church spire to design Queen Victoria’s wedding cake. This started a trend among the Royals who where then challenged to make bigger and better cakes every time. Traditionally, fruit cake is preferred for weddings. However nowadays wedding cakes can be any style, shape, flavour and colour you want; from lemon, vanilla sponge, chocolate, fruit or carrot cake, designs and styles can be unique and add a little extra Wow factor to the day. Some brides are even opting for hundreds of cupcakes, meringues, profiteroles in a stack or even going against all tradition and choosing a chocolate fountain. You should visit a cake designer at least 6 months before your wedding so you are aware of the choices on offer and you can gain an idea of how you want your cake to look. Most cake designers will require some details such as the number of guests, the colour of the bride’s and bridesmaids’ dresses and the colour of the flowers. On the day the cake will be delivered and set up by the confectioner, but do check if this service is included in the price. The cake’s first cut should be made by the bride and groom as this signifies their shared future together. Some couples tend to save the top tier of a rich fruit cake until the christening of their first child. Whatever you decide to go for, choosing the cake will be lots of fun! ♥ 96 www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Inspiration 1

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Pictured: Cakes 1–3 by The Cake Shop, Liverpool (p100), cakes 4, 6 and 7 by Pipedreams (p101), cake 5 by Arty Cakes (p97), and cakes 8 and 9 (over the page) by Jennifer O’Neill Cakes (p101). www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Inspiration 8

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How sweetit is... Why not wow your guests with the latest trend in Candy Buffets or Pick ‘n’ Mix display stands.

Packed full of delicious sweeties, they not only add fun and colour to the wedding reception but are a wonderful way to take people back to their childhood days and are a fantastic talking point. A gorgeous spread of candy will be set up at the reception where guests can browse and indulge their sweet tooths. The sweets can be displayed in elegant glass jars and can be used as part of the dessert or set out as a "make your own" party favour table with decorative bags that guests can take home with them. The candy buffet can also provide a centre piece for the tables and can be a vibrant part of the reception's decor. Choose colours and types of sweeties that compliment the theme of your

wedding as the candy buffet should always match the wedding as a whole, not stand out on its own. Designing your candy buffet can be a fun and exciting part of your wedding preparations – so enjoy! ♥

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Your stationery can be the ﬁrst indication of the theme of your wedding

Announce your wedding in style Your wedding stationery will give your guests the ﬁrst hint of the style and colour theme of your wedding. You may be looking for something quite simple and contemporary, elegant and romantic or elaborate and bold – whatever you decide to go for, you won’t be disappointed with the choice available. So what items are you likely to need? Save the Date Cards – to make sure all your family and friends keep their diary free on the chosen day. Invitations – Remember that you will only need one per family but it’s always wise to order a few extra just in case. Reply Cards – these can be included with your invitations to encourage a prompt response from your guests. Order of Service – Usually you would give one to each guest at a church wedding but when thinking of numbers consider friends coming to watch who may not be invited to the day time. 104 www.theweddingguideuk.com

Table Plan/Place Cards/Menus – can all be designed to match the colour and theme of your wedding and add that bit of luxury and formality to the event. Favours For Your Guests – Bomboniere or wedding favours have traditionally been given to wedding guests for many years. Way back in history bomboniere were small trinket boxes containing sugar cubes or delicate confections which symbolised wealth of the family. Years later the sugar cubes were replaced with 5 almonds which symbolised fertility, wealth, longevity, health and happiness. Today, the choice for wedding favours is endless from petite boxes of chocolates to alcoholic miniatures. Becoming more popular are charity favours where you can donate money to a favourite charity on behalf of your guests. ♥

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Getting onit the right night NT ENTERTAINME

When you start considering what type of music and entertainment you would like at your wedding, you will realise that the choice is endless. Should you go for a DJ, a live singer, a band or a combination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whatever you decide make sure they are going to hit the right note to ensure you have the party of a lifetime.

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Popular DJs, bands and singers get booked well in advance

Arranging your wedding music really should be high priority as popular DJs, bands and singers get booked up well in advance. Ideally you should hear the DJ, singer or band before you book them to make sure they will create the right atmosphere for you and your guests. Your DJ or band should discuss with you what type of music you would like for your ďŹ rst dance and a good DJ or bandleader will gather all the guests together to make it a very special time.

For some fun and magic why not hire a Magician? Close-up magic can provide the perfect ice breaker for a wedding reception. A good magician will mingle with your guests performing a range of miracles in front of their eyes. They will move from group to group engaging guests with their magic and leave them with something shared to talk about, even if they have just met. An experienced wedding magician will know how to approach different groups or single guests, when to entertain a table, and how to work with the serving staff to help you achieve your perfect day. The magician will entertain your guests when they are 106 www.theweddingguideuk.com

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left alone while you are busy with the photographer. He can provide a show for each table during the wedding breakfast, entertain on a larger scale while your reception room is being transformed from day to evening, or engage your evening guests on their arrival. Speak to your wedding magician about how long you would like them to stay, some will offer entertainment for a couple of hours, while others will be more ﬂexible and offer a range of different packages designed to best suit your plans.

Why not end the evening with a magnificent fireworks display? Fireworks are becoming an increasingly popular and spectacular finale to the day's events. When deciding whether you wish to pursue this unique spectacle, there are some basic rules to follow. The venue must of course be of a suitable size, and the owner will need to give their permission. The larger the display, the larger the display area

required, and a site visit with the company is essential. There are many alternative displays available, ranging from just a firework drawing to a full display and, ideally your firework company should be offering many variables and clearly setting out all the costs involved. Pictures in fireworks can be designed and personalised to the bride and groom, these can be visually stunning, last for about a minute and are a novel way to end the main show. If the noise due to large explosions is an issue, speak to the company as they should be able to offer a reduced noise display that is still colourful and spectacular. Firework displays should provide good value for money. Ask your chosen firework company to show you references from previous clients, meet with them to discuss your requirements and ask for a quote. You should also ask them to provide a copy of their insurance documents Finally, do inform your photographer/ videographer in advance about the display so they can be prepared to capture the spectacle. If they require any specialist knowledge on the filming of fireworks, the firework company should be able to assist. ♥

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Casino Glamour }

...a little harmless gambling at your own personal casino

Have you considered adding a touch of Vegas style glamour and excitement to your wedding reception? Your guests would have a truly memorable evening with a little harmless gambling at your own personal casino. Whether it be the excitement of waiting for the Roulette ball to land or the anticipation of the next card to be drawn in a game of Blackjack, your guests will be enjoying themselves in no time! Casino entertainment is great fun for all who will be attending your reception. It can work as a great ice-breaker at the start of the night and makes a great talking point for the rest of the evening. 108 www.theweddingguideuk.com

There are many companies who specialise in providing this kind of entertainment. They will tailor the casino experience to your needs, providing fully staffed casino tables, an experienced croupier to manage the proceedings and all the chips you and your guests will need. When it comes to adding a little more excitement to the night's proceedings, why not introduce a competition to see who can end the night with the most chips! Or, for something a little different, ask your guests to "purchase" their chips by making a donation to a charity of your choice. One ďŹ nal thing to remember - make sure you get the chance to have a gamble yourselves during the night! â&#x2122;Ľ

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LIN & BRADLE

Weddings

Photography by Jeff Langhorne Photography www.jefďŹ&#x201A;anghorneweddings.com

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Lin and Bradley first met on a night out in Liverpool city centre in March 2001. Brad proposed to Lin whilst they were on holiday in Jamaica in June 2010. Lin says “We had been out on a catamaran with our family to visit Dunns Falls and when we arrived back at our hotel we got ready for dinner. Brad led me down to the beach at sunset where he proposed. Of course I said yes! Lin and Brad got married at 1pm on 10th September 2011 in St Paul’s Church, West Derby, Liverpool. The reception was held at Liverpool Town Hall. Lin says “the moment we entered this venue we knew it was the one, it has the ultimate Wow factor. The building oozes class, sophistication, character and was the perfect venue for a wedding. The inside of the building speaks for itself and we just knew that combined with the right photographer our photographs would be unreal, which they were Lin and Brad had a sweet theme for their favours and table names, very apt as they own a traditional Sweet Shop in Widnes town centre. Lin’s dress was Madrid by Amanda Wyatt, a beautiful strapless dress in Ivory with a fitted boned bodice to the hip with beautiful embroidery and a ruffled skirt. “The dress was very Spanish looking which meant that a simple classic hairstyle would match perfectly.

Memorable Moments: “When I stepped into the church with my Dad on my arm and I peaked through the glass of the door, just at that moment Brad turned around and caught my eye – a moment I will never forget.” Where did you go on your honeymoon? “We wanted a combined City and Beach holiday so we spent four days in Hong Kong and then travelled to Koh Samui in Thailand to relax for ten days. It was just perfect.” A note from Lin: “Enjoy every second of the day. It is so important to keep calm and not get stressed out about the little things. Also make sure you get the right photographer. We were very lucky to have Jeff Langhorne who had great ideas, made us feel comfortable all day and most of all produced fantastic photographs!” ♥ Dress: The Bridal Room, Hoylake, Menswear: Groom (see p57) Make-up: Red Carpet Make Up Hair: Layla Hamood Flowers: Fleur Cake: Julies Cakes Invitations: Stephen Woods Graphic Designer Photographer: Jeff Langhorne Photography (see p113) Music & Entertainment: Manhattan Wedding Cars: Caremore Cars (see p89) Wedding Rings: Wongs Venue Decoration: The Sweet Jar and Events HQ

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Photographs

forever to last

Choosing the right wedding photographer can seem daunting. There are a few key things to look out for that will help you make the right choice. You need to feel personally comfortable with your wedding photographer – they’ll be capturing your emotions and working closely with your family and friends on your special day. Some wedding photographers favour a traditional approach with others offering more contemporary images. Some photographers will be able to provide you with a combination of styles. Make sure you see examples of their relevant work to get a good feel whether they are the right choice for you. It’s important that you understand exactly what you’ll be getting from your photographer. Although many now offer straight-forward packages do not be afraid to clarify exactly what your photographer will do on the day itself and provide you with after the event. Do check you know what’s included in the price and what will cost extra. It’s worth arranging your photographer early in your planning as good photographers often get booked well in advance. To form an idea of the types of photographs you want captured take a look at as many examples as you can. Discuss this with your photographer and any friends who have recently got married. Often friends or relatives who are keen amateurs offer their services for free. Whilst it may be tempting to take them up for reasons of politeness or economy, you do not want to take risks with your precious photographs! If you want to guarantee high quality wedding photographs then you’re probably best to leave the task to the professionals. To avoid causing offence to Uncle Bob, maybe you could offer him the important role of capturing candid images of the guests through the day? ♥ 112 www.theweddingguideuk.com

Images courtesy of fotografy

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Boudoir originally comes from the French word “Bouder” meaning “to pout or sulk”. It is also used to describe a lady’s bedroom, dressing room or private sitting room which can lead to thoughts of beautiful and elegant things. Boudoir photography involves tasteful, artistic images, in various stages of boudoir attire.

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It is through Boudoir photography that a woman is made to feel good about her body and to feel conﬁdent about her appearance. Whilst paintings capture the beauty of a woman according to how the artist sees her, photography captures the woman as she is. There are so many different genres of boudoir photography ranging from vintage, burlesque, pinup and bridal boudoir. A good Boudoir photographer will work on producing intimate images that are beautifully lit, showing elegance and classic sophistication. Take time out to discover the world of Boudoir photography, where you will have fun in relaxed and comfortable surroundings, whilst producing a portfolio of images that make you look gorgeous, seductive, radiant and empowered. Boudoir shoots are a special and unique experience and an album of your shots would make a perfect present for your Groom on your wedding day – we are pretty sure he’d love it! ♥

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questions should I be asking...

What Rule Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t #1: afraid be to ask!

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...the Photographer? q q q q q q q q q q q q q q

Can I see examples of your work? Do you use digital cameras or shoot on ďŹ lm? What style of photography do you specialise in? How many pictures will you take? Will you visit the venue before the day? How long will you stay for? Should I pay for meals and travel expenses? Who will edit the photographs? Will you retain the copyright of the images? Is someone available to take your place if you are ill? When will I receive my photographs? How can my family and friends view and order photos? Can your services be adapted to suit my budget? Does the cost include any additional charges and VAT?

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! l a n o i t i d It’s tra een kept itions have b Wedding trad with the generations alive through happiness ey will bring belief that th d to the bride an and good luck together. eir future life groom and th

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The Bouquet

her bouquet bride throws e th , ly al on Traditi d whoever er her head an ov ds ar w ck ba t married. the next to ge catches it is the groom ie me countr s so in y, rl ila m Si and throws it brides garter the removes the males. Again to the single ad . he ry s ar hi m er ov xt to hes it is the ne one who catc

Buttonholes

s ould wear hi es a Knight w tim l is va Th . ie ve ed lo M s In l of hi s as a symbo a lady's colour t tradition of en es pr e th to d s hi ve ol es ev ch s ha at mat g a ﬂower th d an ve lo groom wearin s hi t to declare bride's bouque . ♥ ity un represent

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Capture the laughter

Wedding videos and DVD productions are an excellent way of capturing your special day. Many couples will rank wedding videography much lower on their lists than other wedding day essentials however, failing to ďŹ nd the cash to fund one may be a decision you regret later. Modern wedding videos have moved on from being basic documentaries of weddings. Cameras, production software and the creativity of 120 www.theweddingguideuk.com

videographers are continually improving meaning you now have many more options when it comes to capturing your wedding day. Video guestbook kiosks or booths are becoming more and more popular too, as guests can take pictures and record individual messages to fully capture the ambience of the day in a fun and unique way. So if you want to make sure the sights and sounds of your wedding day are just how you remembered, get it captured on video.... â&#x2122;Ľ

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The Circle of Love Your wedding ring is a public symbol of your everlasting love and commitment to each other, yet many couples will leave buying them until the very last minute. Start thinking about your wedding rings as soon as you start your planning as there are a few points to consider. Remember, they will be worn for the rest of your lives together.

Choosing the style, metal and colour Your style of wedding ring should reﬂect your own personal style; it should also compliment your engagement ring and can also be chosen to match your groom's ring if you wish. Wedding rings come in a variety of metals, colours and styles. When choosing rings it’s best to go for a colour or style you’re not likely to get bored with, so it’s best not to follow high fashion. Consider your personality and your engagement ring style – if your engagement ring is classic, vintage, unusual or even bespoke, then your wedding ring will probably need to match. The Ancient Egyptian belief is that a circular ring was a sign of undying, never ending love, a love without a beginning or an end. Whatever you and your groom choose, it’s nice to have rings that match in some way, either in their metal or pattern.

Make sure it ﬁts!

If you are buying your wedding rings from a jewellers then they will measure your fingers instore to size the rings. If you choose to buy your rings online, many companies will now send out a ring measurer before you place your order so you can be sure to order the correct size. When measuring, it’s worth remembering that your fingers will swell up in the heat, shrink in the cold and get bigger as the day goes on. Most jewellers recommend measuring in the afternoon when you are warm for a snug fit and then re-measuring again in the morning when you are cool to ensure the ring size is perfect. Achieving the correct fit is vital, as nothing else you own will compete with the number of hours you will wear your wedding ring. ♥

Choosing your rings It’s best to decide on a design at least two to three months before the big day, although you will need to allow longer for a bespoke design. This should give you plenty of time for choosing, measuring, sizing and resizing if need be. Agree on your budget and then spend some time looking at what is available. Specialist wedding ring makers allow you to design your own rings and have them made – the ultimate in wearing your own individual style. A specialist ring designer and maker will be able to translate your style requirements into a unique wedding ring or rings just for you. An alternative could be personalising your rings with an engraving of the date of your wedding or a personal message. Images courtesy of www.ringworkshop.co.uk

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Your Hen & Stag Checklist It is becoming increasingly popular for the last night of freedom to last a weekend, or even longer so make sure you discuss with the chief bridesmaid or best man what type of party you really want. • Draw up list of people to invite. • Select a town/venue that's easily accessible to everyone. • Decide on what kind of event you think would be best for the people involved. • Set the itinerary and make inquiries and provisional bookings. • Don’t go too over the top. You might like the idea of a week in Barcelona, but not everyone will want to spend that amount of time or money. If you want to do something big, stick to close friends only. • Create and send out invites. • Give out your email address and mobile number to all the guests and be available to answer queries about directions, accommodation, etc.

• Pre-book everything you can and To m conﬁrm in writing every ake or by email, accor thing go d especially for be su ing to pla n re yo accommodation, u’ve g , a p o l t an w and reconﬁrm the sticki orth day before. ng to • Make sure everyone knows exactly where you're meeting eg which bar of the hotel, which entrance of the station? Give a contact number for last-minute changes. • Make sure everyone knows roughly how much the do will cost, and whether they'll be helping to cover the bride's/groom's costs. Let everyone know how and when payment is to be made. • Have a fall-back meeting place for late arrivals or people who get lost. • Think ahead about how everyone will be getting home. Do you need to arrange transport, book taxis, or send younger members of the party home earlier? ♥

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Don’t panic! There may be a huge amount to do in the run up to your big day, but our handy checklist is designed to help you through the next twelve months.

12 months before:

q q q q q q q q q q q q q

WEDDING PLA

Choose a wedding date Decide on a budget Make a list of guests and decide on numbers Book your Church/Ceremony location Book your reception venue/caterers Send out “Save The Date” cards Choose your Bridesmaids, Ushers and Best Man Start looking for The Dress! Choose and book your photographer Choose and book your videographer Take out insurance cover Start thinking about the Honeymoon Conﬁrm bookings in writing

NNER

8 months before:

q q q q q q q

Choose bridesmaids’ dresses Choose the music, hymns and readings for the ceremony Order wedding stationery Book entertainment Choose and order your wedding cake Make an appointment with your chosen ﬂorist Select a Toastmaster

6 months before:

q q q q q

Give Notice of Marriage Purchase or hire menswear Order venue decoration/chair covers Select your wedding rings Book a make-up artist/hairdresser and arrange a trial

4 months before:

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q Send out your wedding invitations q Check your passport expiry date q Check if you will need visas or vaccinations for your honeymoon destination q Choose attendants’ gifts q Buy shoes, lingerie and accessories q Choose a Gift List q Order favours q Start thinking about a seating plan q Book your wedding night accommodation q Attend initial fitting for your wedding dress q Make arrangements for Hen and Stag parties q Arrange fittings for the menswear q Buy a going away outfit and honeymoon clothes q Organise a rehearsal and let relevant people know

Images courtesy of Jakt Photography

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1 month before:

q q q q

Arrange a final fitting of your wedding dress Call guests who have not responded to your invitation Buy a wedding gift for each other Arrange for a final fitting for your bridesmaids, ushers and best man and arrange when to collect the outfits q Confirm timings with the venue and all relevant suppliers q Finalise the seating plan q Enjoy your hen and stag parties! 2 Weeks Before:

q Make a note of wedding gifts as they arrive q Conﬁrm the date and time of the rehearsal to the relevant people q Arrange to change your name if appropriate q Speak to all your suppliers to conﬁrm details 1 week before:

q Arrange to collect your wedding dress, bridesmaids’ dresses and the menswear q Arrange for your order of service to be given to the minister q Pack for your honeymoon q Have all your beauty treatments q Book the groom a hair cut q Organise an emergency kit for on the day q Drink plenty of water and have some early nights Relax and enjoy this time – all your hard work is about to come to fruition!

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WEDDING PLA

NNER

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YOUR GUIDE TO

Wedding Insurance THE LEGAL ST

UFF

OK, so Wedding Insurance probably wasn’t one of the first things to go through your mind when you got engaged, and some of you reading this may still be wondering exactly what it covers... That’s an easy one. It offers you financial protection against some of the things that could go wrong in the run up to your big day, including: • Cancellation and Rearrangement – due to bad weather, illness of a key family member, redundancy or armed force posting. • Supplier Failure – caterers, florists, tailors etc... • Loss or Damage – wedding attire, rings, cake, gifts etc. Best of all, with cover from Weddingplan starting at just £18.49, Wedding Insurance doesn’t break the bank. So your much needed peace of mind could end up costing less than a bottle of cheap fizz... but won’t give you a headache! 132 www.theweddingguideuk.com

How much cover do you need? That all depends on how much you intend to spend. Think about how much it costs (and the deposits you’ve paid) for things like the venue, caterers, entertainment, wedding cars, photographer, wedding dress, suits and flowers. And then imagine all the things that could go wrong! Before you panic, just keep reading … With Weddingplan, you can choose from 9 levels of cover, protecting up to £50,000 of cancellation costs, both for weddings held here in the UK or further afield. This cover ensures you’re also protected for a variety of other eventualities, such as supplier failure and loss or damage to key wedding items. This means that you can claim back losses, even if you are not forced to cancel the big day. You also have the ability to add optional extras such as marquee cover, ceremonial sword cover or extended public liability cover for the whole wedding party (some venues require this level of public liability protection, so it is worth checking). Take time to make sure your chosen cover fits your needs, and remember… the cheapest isn’t always the best.

When should you take out wedding insurance? Now! We recommend that you take out insurance as early as possible, ideally as soon as you have set the date and decided on your venue. Although we cover deposits already paid, you will not be covered against any losses that have happened before you take out insurance.

By now you should understand more about Wedding Insurance, so explore our 9 levels of cover by visiting: www.weddingplaninsurance.co.uk Weddingplan wedding insurance is a trading name of UK General Insurance Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered in England and Wales Company No. 4506493. Registered Ofﬁce: Cast House, Old Mill Business Park, Gibraltar Island Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1RJ. ♥

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EventCity MANCHESTER

10th - 11th March 2012 ADMISSION £8 ON THE DOOR

BOOKED TICKETS ONLY £7 ADVANCED A

St. George’s Hall LIVERPOOL

22nd - 23rd September 2012 ADMISSION £8 ON THE DOOR

BOOKED TICKETS ONLY £7 ADVANCED A

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Image courtesy of Crash Taylor

Wedding Fayre Diary Sunday 8th January 2012 Floral Pavilion Theatre Marine Promenade, New Brighton, Wirral, CH45 2JS Time: 12 - 4pm % 0151 625 2918

Sunday 15th January 2012 Thornton Hall Hotel Neston Road, Thornton Hough, Wirral, CH63 1JF Time: 11am- 3pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289

Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th January 2012 The Liverpool Wedding Show The Grand Marquee, Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 4AN Time: 10am – 5pm % Rachel on 0151 227 9179

Sunday 15th January 2012 Ramada Encore Warrington Aston Avenue, Warrington, WA3 6ZN Time: 12 - 4pm % KeeDays on 07738 058 656

Sunday 15th January 2012 The Fir Grove Hotel Knutsford Old Road, Warrington, Cheshire, WA4 2LD Time: 12 - 4pm % Flaunt Events on 01244 539117 Sunday 15th January 2012 The Grange Country Club Liverpool Road, Thornton Hough,Wirral, CH64 7TW Time: 12 - 4pm % 0151 625 2918 136 www.theweddingguideuk.com

Sunday 15th January 2012 The Lowry Hotel, Manchester 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf, Manchester M3 5LH Time: 12 – 4pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289 Sunday 15th January 2012 Quarry Bank Mill Styal, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 4LA Time: 11:30am-3:30pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289

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Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd January 2012 Gordale Nursery & Garden Centre Chester High Road, Burton, South Wirral, CH64 8TF Time: 11am-4pm % Joanne on 0151 336 2116 Sunday 22nd January 2012 Shrigly Hall Shrigley Park, Pott Shrigley, Nr. Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK10 5SB Time: 11am - 3pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289 Sunday 22nd January 2012 Haslington Hall Holmshaw Lane, Haslington, CW1 5TJ Time: 11am - 3pm % KeeDays on 07738 058 656 Sunday 22nd January 2012 Cranage Hall Byley Lane, Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, CW4 8EW Time: 11:30am - 4pm % KeeDays on 07738 058 656 Sunday 22nd January 2012 The Imperial Hotel Llandudno, Conwy, North Wales, LL30 1AP Time: 11am – 4pm % Celebration Wedding Fayres on 07725 257460 Sunday 22nd January 2012 Wrenbury Hall Wrenbury, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8EJ Time: 11am - 3pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289

Sunday 29th January 2012 Holiday Inn Ellesmere Port Waterways, Lower Mersey Street, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, CH65 2AL Time: 11am-4pm % Leanne Deponeo on 0151 356 8111 Sunday 5th February 2012 Craxton Wood Hotel 1 Parkgate Road, Ledsham, Cheshire, CH66 9PB Time: 11am – 3pm % Flaunt Events on 01244 539117 Sunday 5th February 2012 Ness Gardens Ness Botanic Gardens, Ness, Neston, South Wirral, CH64 4AY. Time: 12pm – 4pm % Flaunt Events on 01244 539117 Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th February 2012 The Manchester Bridal Show @ The Triangle Shopping Centre 37 Hanging Ditch, Manchester, G reater Manchester, M4 3TR Time: Saturday 9am – 6pm and Sunday 11am – 5pm % Rachel on 0151 227 9179 Sunday 12th February 2012 Brook Meadow Hotel Heath Lane, Childer Thornton, South Wirral, CH66 7NS Time: 12 - 4pm % 0151 625 2918

Sunday 22nd January 2012 Willington Hall Willington, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0NB Time: 11am – 3pm Contact: Flaunt Events on 01244 539117

Sunday 12th February 2012 Ramada Encore Haydock Galway Crescent, Piele Road, Haydock, WA11 0GR Time: 12 - 4pm % KeeDays on 07738 058 656

Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th January 2012 Ruthin Castle Hotel Ruthin, Denbighshire, North Wales, LL15 2NU Time: 10am – 4pm % Russell on 01824 702664

Sunday 12th February 2012 Ramada Plaza Wrexham Ellice Way, Wrexham, LL13 7YH Time: 11am – 3pm % Flaunt Events on 01244 539117

Sunday 29th January 2012 Lauries Centre Wedding Fayre 142 Claughton Road, Birkenhead, Merseyside, CH41 6EY Time: 11am – 4pm % Funky Sunflower Events on 07914 806410

Sunday 19th February 2012 Chester Racecourse Wedding Show The Racecourse, Chester, CH1 2LY Time: 10am – 4pm % Flaunt Events on 01244 539117 www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Sunday 19th February 2012 The Widnes Wedding Show at The Best Western Everglades Park Hotel Derby Road, Widnes, Cheshire, WA8 3UJ Time: 11am - 4pm % 0151 495 5500 Sunday 19th February 2012 Hilton Hotel Liverpool 3 Thomas Steers Way, Liverpool, L1 8LW Time: 11am - 4pm % Rachel on 0151 227 9179 Sunday 19th February 2012 Ramada Encore Wedding Fayre Ramada Encore Crewe, Crewe Business Park, Electra Way, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 6XB Time: 11am - 4pm % Keedays on 07738 058 656 Sunday 19th February 2012 Hulme Hall Wedding Fayre Bolton Road, Port Sunlight, Wirral, CH62 5DH Time: 11am – 4pm % Funky Sunflower Events on 07914 806410 Sunday 19th February 2012 Lion Quays Waterside Resort Moreton, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 3EN Time: 11am – 3pm % 01691 684300 Sunday 19th February 2012 Crewe Hall Wedding Fayre Weston Rd, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6UZ Time: 11:30 - 4pm £1 Admission % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289

Sunday 26th February 2012 Success Factory Wedding Fayre Harthill Road, Burwardsley, Cheshire, CH3 9NU Time: 11am – 4pm % Funky Sunflower Events on 07914 806410 Sunday 26th February 2012 Carden Park Hotel Chester, Cheshire, CH3 9DQ Time: 11am - 4pm % Rachel on 0151 227 9179 Sunday 26th February 2012 Crowne Plaza Liverpool St Nicholas Place, Princes Dock, Pier Head, Liverpool, L3 1QW Time: 12 - 4pm % Rachel on 0151 227 9179 Sunday 26th February 2012 The Palace Hotel Manchester Oxford Street, Manchester, M60 7HA Time: 11am – 4pm % Rachel on 0151 227 9179 Sunday 26th February 2012 Crabwall Manor Parkgate Road, Chester Time: 12 - 4pm % Flaunt Events on 01244 539117 Sunday 26th February 2012 Mollington Banastre Hotel Parkgate Road, Chester, CH1 6NN Time: 11am – 3pm % Flaunt Events on 01244 539117

Sunday 19th February 2012 Holiday Inn Haydock Lodge Lane, Newton Le Willows, Haydock, WA12 0JG Time: 12 – 4pm % Suzanne or Karen on 01942 868330

Sunday 26th February 2012 Walton Hall Wedding Fayre Walton Lea Road, Higher Walton, Warrington, WA44 6SN Time: 10am-4pm % Manuela’s Designer Florist on 01928 730006

Sunday 26th February 2012 Devonshire House Hotel 293-297 Edge Lane, Fairfield, Liverpool, L7 9LD Time: 12:30 – 4pm % UK Wedding Shows on 01704 882 050

Monday 27th February 2012 Stobart Stadium Wedding Evening Lowerhouse Lane, Widnes, Cheshire, WA8 7DZ Time: 6pm – 9pm % 0151 510 6000

Sunday 26th February 2012 Best Western Forest Hills Hotel Open Day Overton Hill, Frodsham, Cheshire, WA6 6HH Time: 12 – 3pm % 01928 735255

Saturday 3rd March 2012 Bron Eifion Country House Hotel Criccieth, Gwynedd, LL52 0SA Time: 12 – 4pm % Mary on 01766 522385

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Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th March 2012 ECHO Confetti Wedding Show The Capital, Old Hall Street, Liverpool Time: TBC % 0151 472 2570

Sunday 11th March 2012 The Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa Wrexham Road, Pulford, Chester, CH4 9DG Time: 12 - 4pm % Flaunt Events on 01244 539117

Sunday 4th March 2012 Capesthorne Hall Wedding Fayre Siddington, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 9JY Time: 12 - 4pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289

Sunday 11th March 2012 Aintree Racecourse Ormskirk Road, Aintree, Liverpool, L9 5AS Time: 11am – 4pm % Rachel on 0151 227 9179

Sunday 4th March 2012 Belle Epoque Wedding Fayre King Street, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6DT Time: 1pm - 5pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289

Sunday 11th March 2012 St Helens Rugby Football Club Stadium Peasley Cross Lane, St Helens, WA9 3AL Time: 12 – 4pm % Rachel on 0151 227 9179

Sunday 4th March 2012 Inglewood Manor Badgers Rake Lane, Ledsham, South Wirral, Cheshire, CH66 8PF Time: 12 – 4pm % 0151 339 5105

Sunday 11th March 2012 Manchester Airport Marriot Hotel Wedding Fayre Hale Road, Hale Barns, Altrincham, WA15 8XW Time: 11 - 3pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289

Sunday 4th March 2012 Doubletree by Hilton Chester Warrington Road, Hoole, Chester CH2 3PD Time: 11am – 4pm % Rachel on 0151 227 9179 Sunday 4th March 2012 The Kinmel Manor Hotel St. Georges Road, Abergele, Conwy, LL22 9AS Time: 11am - 4pm % Celebration Wedding Fayres on 07725 257460

Sunday 11th March 2012 Eaves Hall Eaves Hall Lane, West Bradford, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 3JG Time: 12 – 4pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289 Sunday 18th March 2012 Faenol Fawr Country House Hotel Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire, North Wales, LL18 5UN Time: 11am – 4pm % Funky Sunflower Events on 07914 806410

Sunday 4th March 2012 Northwich Memorial Hall Wedding Fayre Chesterway, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 5QJ Time: 10:30am - 3pm % KeeDays on 07738 058 656

Sunday 25th March 2012 Hard Days Night Hotel Central Buildings, North John Street, Liverpool, L2 6RR Time: 12 - 4pm % Bliss Wedding Shows on 0151 227 9179

Sunday 4th March 2012 The Quay Hotel & Spa Deganwy Quay, Conwy, LL31 9DJ Time: 11am - 4pm % Funky Sunflower Events on 07914 806410

Sunday 25th March 2012 Mottram Hall Wilmslow Road, Mottram St Andrew, Cheshire, SK10 4QT. Time: 12 - 4pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289

Sunday 4th March 2012 Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel Golf & Spa Wedding Fayre Tarporley Road, Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 4JH Time: 11am – 3pm % Flaunt Events on 01244 539117

Sunday 25th March 2012 Vale Royal Abbey Whitegate, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 2BS Time: 11am – 3pm % KeeDays on 07738 058 656 www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Sunday 25th March 2012 Croxteth Hall & Country Park Croxteth Hall Lane, Liverpool, L12 0HB Time: 11am – 4pm % Rachel on 0151 227 9179 Sunday 25th March 2012 Combermere Abbey Combermere, Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 4AJ Time: 11am- 3pm % Wedding Link on 0161 925 4289 Sunday 15th April 2012 aBode Chester Grosvenor Road, Chester, CH1 2DJ Time: 12 – 4pm % Keedays on 07738 058 656 Sunday 22nd April 2012 Nantwich Civic Hall Wedding Fayre Market St, Nantwich, Cheshire East CW5 5DG Time: 10:30am - 3pm % KeeDays on 07738 058 656 Sunday 13th May 2012 Best Western Forest Hills Hotel Open Day Overton Hill, Frodsham, Cheshire, WA6 6HH Time: 12 – 3pm % 01928 735255 Thursday 7th June 2012 Lion Quays Waterside Resort Moreton, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 3EN Time: 6pm – 9pm % Flaunt Events on 01244 539117 Sunday 17th June 2012 Craxton Wood Hotel 1 Parkgate Road, Ledsham, Cheshire, CH66 9PB Time: 11am – 3pm Contact: Flaunt Events on 01244 539117

This diary is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of going to print. Please check local advertising or contact the named organiser for confirmation before travelling. For details on how to include your event in The Wedding Guide’s Diary please contact Gillian Lane on 0151 638 3008 or email gillian@theweddingguideuk.com 140 www.theweddingguideuk.com

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Wedding Fayres Fayres a funky sunflower events

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Sunday 15th January 2012 Ramada Encore Warrington Sunday 22nd January 2012 Cranage Hall Sunday 22nd January 2012 Haslington Hall Sunday 12th February 2012 Ramada Encore Haydock Sunday 19th February 2012 Ramada Encore Crewe Sunday 26th February 2012 Ramada Encore Barnsley Sunday 4th March 2012 Northwich Memorial Hall Sunday 25th March 2012 Vale Royal Abbey Sunday 15th April 2012 aBode Chester Sunday 22nd April 2012 Nantwich Civic Hall Sunday 14th October Hartford Golf Club Free Admission to all our Wedding Fayres Enter a free prize draw to win fabulous prizes

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