Trend Weddings 2016/17

Bridal Boutique Create your own signature wedding style

Blessed Out Bride BRIDAL BOOTCAMP Say yes to less stress!

Get some pre-wedding rest & relaxation

ACCOMMODATION FOOD & DRINK CORPORATE & ENTERTAINING WEDDINGS

A Georgian mansion set in 11 acres of entirely secluded parkland in the heart of Royal Deeside, Raemoir is thoroughly impressive and is one of Scotland’s finest wedding locations.

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AVAILABLE ON WEEKDAY WEDDINGS

4 | WELCOME

Welcome to the 2016 edition of Trend Weddings, your essential local wedding guide.

Here at Trend we’ve been learning the secrets of a zen-like wedding and how to be a blessed out bride. Organising a wedding can be a stressful affair, especially if event planning isn’t your forte. To turn those wedding woes into wedding glows, discover how to be an uber-organised bride in Wedding Forget Me Nots, and check out our tips for staying cool, calm and matrimonially collected in Bridal Bootcamp. If you need a little help in creating your perfect day, wedding planner guru, Heather Angell, is on hand to help bring your dream wedding to life.

EMMA LEIPER FINLAYSON is a fundraiser by day and a writer by night, Emma has a particular passion for writing, speaking and thinking about Italy, and has her own blog dedicated to all things Venice.

This year our fashion muse comes in the form of Stephanie Allin’s Italianinspired bridal couture, and we venture to South Africa for the ultimate adventure honeymoon before coming closer to home to the beautiful Ballogie Estate as our feature wedding venue.

So, follow our lead, put your feet up and relax, and read on for all the best tips, info and advice for planning your perfectly stylish and serene wedding day.

DIRECTOR GILL BUYERS gill@trendmagazine.co.uk EDITOR EMMA LEIPER FINLYASON emma.leiperfinlayson@gmail.com PUBLISHED BY

SALES & MARKETING CLARE FINDLAY clare@trendmagazine.co.uk

TREND PRODUCTIONS LTD.

DESIGN RYAN SWINNEY ryan@trendmagazine.co.uk

192 Holburn Street, Aberdeen AB10 6DA

ADMINISTRATION JILL WALKER jwalker@trendmagazine.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1224 596223 info@trendmagazine.co.uk

GUEST CONTRIBUTORS Newsline Media, Jan Leatham & Purdey Lines

www.trendmagazine.co.uk

PRINT Stephens & George Print Group

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Prices are correct at time of going to press, but may be subject to change.

Trend cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions by contributors in the magazine may not represent the views of the publisher. Trend Productions Ltd takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers in this publication. T&Cs apply to all competitions and offers.

DONNA MURRAY

Donna is a photographer from Aberdeen. She graduated from Napier university with a BA Hons in photography and film in 2006. She then ventured into press photography, gaining national recognition for her style. Her love of travel and photography takes her around the world, winning SWPP travel photographer of year in 2011, and most recently exhibiting her series of maternal health images in Malawi.

contents

10 HAIR & BEAUTY

24

10 Stunning styles for your big day from Rebecca Carr

INSPIRATION

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24 Back to Nature, our guide to fabulous florals 30 Nuptially Correct: Giving Good Manners 31 Top Wedding Ring tips from Finnies The Jeweller 36 Mind & Body Wedding Beauty 38 The Dutiful Bridesmaid

FASHION 14 Must have accessories for the blushing Bride 18 Stately Splendour, stunning bridal-wear from two of Aberdeen's finest 28 @hamishmunro provides the finishing touches 31 Hatted Fashionista with Beau Hat Hire 32 Discover your Signature Bridal Style 46 Italian inspired wedding gowns with Stephanie Allin Couture

16 VENUES 16 Fairytale castles and elegant country houses from The National Trust for Scotland 26 Bespoke weddings at Ballogie House

34 PLANNING 34 Wedding Forget Me Nots 40 Safari so good: The essential South African honeymoon 43 Delicious catering tips 44 Plan the perfect wedding with Heather Angel

42 THE COLLECTION 42 The Ultimate wedding directory

ADVERTISEMENTS

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The Idea Factory, 20 Mearns Street, Aberdeen AB11 5AT 07739 166876 | info@donnamurrayphotography.com | www.donnamurrayphotography.com

ADVERTISEMENTS

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10 | BEAUTY ADVERTISEMENTS

Hair trials are part and parcel of a bride's wedding prep repertoire, but it's often an element pushed down the bridal list of things to do which can be bad news for your hair.

To ensure your tresses are trussed for wedding success, Rebecca of Rebecca Carr Hair Salon, advises to invest in some loving locks TLC.

appointments so you can get a hair regime that's suited to create as much shine for that perfect photo wedding look.'

'Hair preparation is key to getting your hair runway ready for

It's also important to think ahead to how you want to style your wedding hair. Whether you're thinking of a romantic bun, hippy

your big day. Book yourself in for some pre-wedding hair care

waves or glam curls, preparing your hair and its colour will

BEAUTY

ensure you showcase your look to its best potential on the big day.

For brunettes, it can be harder to see the detail in an up do, but with the help of one of L'OrĂŠal's colouring techniques you'll be able to marry your wedding hair style and colour. Go continental with the French polish-contouring procedure which layers brown on top of brown with a whisper and not a shout. For brunettes who like a bit of variety, the Tricolour chic method gives bespoke blending of three brunette

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shades. Or stay French with Brunette a Porter, colour inspiration from the undone nonchalance of the photo ready Parisian front row.

For brides who prefer sunkissed shades, L'OrĂŠal have a number of amonia free colour to help you find the perfect blonde for you and your style.

To complete your runway ready look, Rebecca can come to your home or venue to style your hair whilst you enjoy a glass of fizz and get ready for your big day.

And with her pop up wedding bar available for you and your guests throughout the day you'll be sure to keep your hair looking fabulously fresh all day long for that truly photo ready finish.

Stockists of Enzoani Justin Alexander Morilee Nicole Ronald Joyce True Bride Dessy Bridal Suite for exclusive use of bride ensuring total privacy.

Big day, big smile At Fergus & Glover, we can help you have the perfect smile on your perfect day. From dental implants and cosmetic dentistry through to a full range of advanced facial treatments, we have the expertise to put more white into your white wedding.

Call us on 01224 644876 to discuss your free cosmetic consultation. We’d love to see you smiling in your wedding photographs.

14 | FASHION

Miranda Templeton Tiara, Perfect Bridal Rooms

The words beautiful, elegant and perfect all describe how you dream to look on your wedding day. From your sparkling headpiece to your poised satin shoes, perhaps you’ll fall in love with these breath-taking designs.

WORDS BY PURDEY LINES

FASHION

GET THE

LOOK 01 | Embellished Crystal Leaf Headband, Ivory Grace 02 | Patent Clutch, Lipsy 03 | On To Point Heel, Office 04 | Rosie for Autograph Lingerie, Marks & Spencer 05 | Kitley White, Perfect Bridal Rooms 06 | Grey Suedette Heel, New Look 07 | Rosie for Autograph Lingerie, Marks & Spencer 08 | Gold Diamante Sideband, Ivory Grace 09 | Rainbow Club 'Diane' - Shimmer Envelope Handbag, Brides Delight 10 | Diamante Pearl Tiara, Ivory Grace

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16 | ADVERTORIAL

YO U ’ R E P E R F E C T

Venue Awaits The National Trust for Scotland’s fairytale castles and elegant country houses can be yours for the day. With nine locations in the North-east, the only difficulty will be deciding which one to choose!

One of the Trust’s most picturesque venues is Crathes Castle near Banchory, in the heart of Royal Deeside. Exchange your vows outside in the Golden Garden or in the castle’s Great Hall with views over the walled garden. Afterwards, sip champagne as you enjoy a game of croquet or tour of the castle before being piped to dinner in the newly refurbished Horsemill.

Further north, Fyvie Castle near Turriff is a romantic vision of towers and turrets set in beautiful parkland with its own private loch. The castle’s interconnecting Drawing Room and Gallery provide a magical setting for ceremonies and receptions. From the castle, a short stroll leads to the Racquets Court: a glassroofed pavilion with a sprung dance floor - perfect for evening receptions and ceilidhs.

For more information on National Trust for Scotland venues please visit www.nts.org.uk/weddings

OUR THANKS...

Model: Hayley Charles

Photographer: Donna Murray donnamurrayphotography.com

Make Up: Rae Mathieson raemathieson.com

Styling: HJC Styling hjcstyling.com

Hair: Michelle Reid Flowers: Kim Dalglish Florist Location: Raemoir House Hotel

Stockists: Avorio, Ivory Grace & New Look.

FASHION

Ian Stuart Dress, Avorio

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20 | FASHION

Pronovias Dress, Avorio

FASHION

Maggie Sottero Dress, Pronovias Veil, both Avorio

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22 | FASHION

Stephanie Allin Couture Symphony Bodice, Stephanie Allin Couture Snow Flake Shrug Stephanie Allin Couture Midi Skirt, all Ivory Grace Shoes, New Look

FASHION

On The Cover: Maggie Sottero Dress, Pronovias Veil, both Avorio

Face | Matchmaster, Strobe Creme, Studio Concealer, Gingerley, Skin Finish 'Soft & Gentle', Pro Powder 'Sculpt'.

Eyes & Brows | Warm Neutrals Palette, Eye Pencil 'Smoulder’ & ‘Coffee’, Sculpt Mascara, Eyebrow ‘Spiked' Lips | Lipstick ‘Velvet Teddy'.

Stephanie Allin Couture Dress, Stephanie Allin Couture Tulle Skirt, both Ivory Grace

All MAC cosmetics.

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24 | FLOWERS

WORDS BY JAN LEATHAM

This year’s florals have definitely seen a turn towards the natural look. Bridal bouquets are moving away from the tightly structured, colour co-ordinated posy and veering towards a more organic, seasonal feel. Think foraged branches and blowsy heritage blooms, interspersed with seedheads and fruit stems, tied with twine and trailing ribbons.

Colours are staying antique blush, peach and rose, but frequently

combined with jewel colours for impact, or coffee shades for extra layers. Table centres are no longer towering and identical, again the feeling is much more natural with groups of antique vases, posies and candles to echo the heritage vibe.

Kim Dalglish is an expert florist with a keen eye for current trends, why not book a workshop with your hens and learn how to tie your own bouquet! www.kimdalglish.com

26 | VENUE ADVERTISEMENTS

Nestled in the heart of the lusciously green and stunning landscape of Royal Deeside, the idyllic Ballogie House has long been a sought after venue for those tying the knot.

A luxurious haven for couples who yearn for an exclusive family wedding, Ballogie House is currently undergoing a lavish make over to turn the already beautiful house into a truly distinctive wedding venue.

The newly built Orangery will allow for small intimate weddings, whilst larger wedding parties

can take advantage of the specially built marquee set amongst the extensive gardens, with stunning views across the open parkland.

Guests will enjoy light and bright public rooms with high-quality luxurious furnishings, including

Wedding parties have the exclusive use of Ballogie House, allowing the celebrations to start the day before the special occasion and to continue long after the happy couple have walked down the aisle;

seven opulently decorated en suite bedrooms to give guests the most comfortable and sumptuous of experiences, in this private and inviting location.

giving family and guests the opportunity to relax, unwind and enjoy the leisure facilities and outdoor pursuits available on the estate.

VENUE

Wedding parties have the exclusive use of Ballogie House, allowing the celebrations to start the day before the special occasion and to continue long after the happy couple have walked down the aisle…

'At Ballogie you have the space and the flexibility to have your wedding exactly as you want it' says Lewis Gray Property Manager of the Estate. 'We will listen to our guests and help them tailor their wedding to their needs. Whether it’s a traditional wedding or a day filled with the bride and groom’s own distinctive requests, we can help create the perfect wedding memories'. For Lewis the goal is ensuring that guests have the most amazing experience.

With a team dedicated to helping with the organisation of the big day including recommending

and booking suppliers, as well as overseeing the smooth running of the wedding day itself, couples can be certain of being in safe hands when saying their ‘I do’s’ at Ballogie House, it really is a truly special place.

Ballogie House, on Ballogie Estate is now accepting bookings for wedding parties from spring 2017 onwards. www.ballogie-estate.co.uk

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28 | ADVERTORIAL ADVERTISEMENTS

erving the fashion needs of Aberdeen and beyond for over 35 years, @hamishmunro is a well-loved award winning independent boutique in the centre of Aberdeen’s West End. With an unrivalled collection of ladies’ footwear, clothing, handbags, jewellery and gifts, looking fabulous is covered with fashionable ease.

help with those finishing touches. Choose from their stunning array of unique and elegant jewellery to give you that sparkle factor, or wrap up in style with one of their chic scarves.

If you want to step out in a show-stopping daring heel or in a classic comfortable style, @hamishmunro has the shoe for you. Footwear is available in sizes 2 - 8 and comes in a variety of heel heights. The boutique is particularly proud to offer a complimentary stretching service on all their footwear to ensure comfort and the perfect fit. And don’t forget to protect your shoes with a pair of ‘Clean Heels’, clear heel protectors that stop your heels sinking into grass - perfect for posing for wedding photos or a day at the races.

Whatever your occasion, whatever your needs, you’ll be sure to look fabulous with @hamishmunro.

There is something for everyone in store, with their extensive range of womenswear boasting key brands including Oui, Dori Premiere, and Part Two, and sizes ranging from 8 - 16. So if you’re looking for a stylish outfit for a special occasion, @hamishmunro has something to make you look and feel amazing.

No outfit would be complete without some essential accessories to complete your occasion look and

The store’s collection of clutch bags is particularly special, featuring on-edge fashion and classic styles, including the Peter Kaiser brand, famous for their on trend yet unique, timeless pieces that use only the

19-25 Thistle St, Aberdeen AB10 1UY

@hamishmunro’s knowledgeable staff is on hand to

finest of leather, softest suede, and exceptional fabrics.

Tel: 01224 641388 www.something-for-me.co.uk

30 | GIFT LIST

Negotiating the Matrimonial Minefield of Wedding Gifts Kettles, toasters, and chinaware - when our parents got married it was the norm to gift household items to help the bride and groom build their new home together. But times have changed. The majority of modern grooms don’t carry their brides over the threshold of a home they’ve never shared before. Out of the ashes of premarital cohabitation has arisen a new culture of giving, and with it, a whole new way of requesting wedding gifts.

or a whimsically polite poem asking for gifts of money towards a honeymoon.

The Art of Asking When an invitation pops through your door you’re likely to find one of two things with your invite details of a specific gift list from a high street store,

It can, however, put undue pressure on guests if they can’t afford any of the items on the list (or similarly don’t want to gift any of the items on the list), and that’s where the merit of asking for a nice and simple

Whilst some people find the asking of specific gifts a little uncomfortable, there is merit in being so upfront.

It gives guests a pointer in what to buy and they’ll be safe in the knowledge that their gift is wanted and won’t be left gathering dust on a shelf somewhere after the wedding.

WORDS BY EMMA LEIPER FINLAYSON

sum of money can come in handy. People give what they can afford and the couple can buy something they actually need or want.

In for a Penny, in for a Pound If asking for specific gifts still causes you consternation, do what makes you feel comfortable, even if that means not asking for anything and letting your family and friends decide what they would like to give you.

In years to come it won’t be their wedding gifts you’ll remember, but their sharing of your big day. In the slightly amended words of medieval historian, Thomas á Kempis, ‘a wise bride values not so much the gift of the giver, as the love of the giver.’

ADVERTORIAL

It may once have been old hat to adorn your locks with a pretty bonnet when dressing for a wedding, but today you’ll be well on trend with a seriously stylish hat from Beau Hat Hire.

With a collection spanning aweinspiring disc hats, funky fascinators and vintage veils, there is a hat for all tastes at this premier ladies hat hire company. Whether you’re looking for dinky bows, or fully fledged feathers, or sassy hot pinks or monochrome blacks, you’ll be sure to find a style that complements whatever your outfit and whatever the occasion.

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The beauty of hiring means that you’ll never have to wear the same style twice and you can be a hatted fashionista without having to buy a new hat for every wedding. You’ll be the epitome of sophistication without the cost and the loss of wardrobe space!

So, whether you’re heading to a wedding or dressing up for a day at the races, you’ll certainly be winning in the style stakes with an on-edge hat from Beau Hat Hire.

Tel: 07540 418990 www.beauhathire.com With a million and one things

The next step is choosing the shape

that can be stressful when making preparations for your wedding, here at Finnies we are dedicated to ensuring that choosing the perfect wedding ring isn’t one of them. With over 55 years’ experience helping couples get ready for their big day, the team at Finnies are well placed to help you find that perfect ring.

with options including bands of varying widths, either set with diamonds or without. Alternatively our in house jewellers can tailor something that fits perfectly with your engagement ring. With complimentary engraving on all wedding rings purchased from Finnies your special purchase will be truly unique.

A good place to start is choosing the metal for your wedding ring; platinum remains a popular choice for both men and women due to its hypoallergenic qualities and durability but there are many alternatives including white, yellow or rose gold and also palladium.

We look forward to welcoming you into our George Street store where you can view our extensive collection and seek our expert advice. www.finniesjewellers.co.uk

32 | STYLING

Vintage, Princess, Ballgown, or Lace What’s your Signature Style?

tarting your search for your perfect wedding gown is one of the most exciting aspects of getting married. It can also be the most intimidating. With so much choice and so many designs, where do you even start?

The popularity of wedding reality shows has not done much to help project an accurate representation of wedding dress shopping. They all show elated brides finding ‘the dress of all dresses’, of having that ‘feeling’ that a particular dress is the one. Almost always, the mother is weeping tears of joy at just how magical and stunning the bride looks.

Of course, all brides want to look amazing on their big day, but don’t put too many expectations on your dress shopping experience, and don’t assume your heart will know when it’s right - use your head too.

Signature Silhouette To make your shopping experience as enjoyable and stress free as possible, consider what your signature style is. Are you a glamour puss who’s drawn to sexy glam wedding dresses with plunging necklines and exposed backs? Or are you vintage-inspired and like floaty 1940s lace and button up back dresses?

Perhaps you’re a classic princess and love all things sparkling and puffy. There are hundreds of styles out

WORDS BY EMMA LEIPER FINLAYSON

there, so do your homework first to give you at least some direction when you walk in to a bridal store.

Outside the Wedding Box But don’t forget to try on dresses that aren’t your usual style. How a dress looks on a hanger compared to how it looks on your body can be completely different. Be daring and try something new. You’ll never know what might make you look and feel gorgeous. You could think you were a strapless, sweetheart neckline kind of bride, but end up falling in love with a Carrie Bradshaw-esque fashionista gown with bird feathers as your headpiece!

STYLING

With so much choice and so many designs, where do you even start?

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34 | ORGANISATION

ORGANISATION

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Getting married isn’t something you do every day and with so many things to organise, it can be easy for the little but essential things to fall through the cracks in between organising the exciting things like the dress!

Make Like Postman Pat Size doesn’t always matter but in the case of wedding invites it certainly does! Make sure you’ve got the right amount of postage for the size of your

photos - outside, it would be wise to have a plan for if the rain puts in an appearance.

invitations or they could end up at the Post Office rather than your guests’ door step.

Flowers being delivered when your hair is getting done? Need to get your clothes from your bridal room to your honeymoon suite whilst you’re enjoying the first throes of wedded bliss? Delegate collection and delivery jobs to your nearest and dearest.

Passport Control If you’re planning on taking your husband’s name and want to use your honeymoon as your first joint-name venture, remember and apply for your new passport well in advance to ensure it arrives back in time.

Rainy Day Contingency The British weather likes to keep us guessing and if you’re planning on having your wedding - or your

Delivery Duties

A Little Bag of Tricks It’s amazing the little essential items you and your bridesmaids will need on the big day - pack an emergency kit that includes safety pins, tweezers, talcum powder, hair pins, nail files, plasters (for those new wedding shoes!), and some Bach Remedy Rescue to calm those nerves!

WORDS BY EMMA LEIPER FINLAYSON

Licence to Wed If all else fails and you forget all the above, just make sure you don’t forget your marriage licence so your nuptials can go ahead!

Don’t sweat it The day’s arrived and you’re having last minute detail anxiety. Try and relax - you’ve done all you can and all that matters now is that marrying the love of your life!

Need a little help in organising your wedding to make sure you don’t forget the small stuff? Turn to page 44 for why a wedding planner might just be what you need!

36 | HEALTH ADVERTISEMENTS & BEAUTY

With over 70% of brides embarking on a weight loss regime ahead of their big day, fitness boot camps and personal trainers are doing a roaring trade with body conscious brides. But with so much focus on looking good, it can be easy to forget to work on feeling good too.

WORDS BY EMMA LEIPER FINLAYSON

Weddings can be stressful affairs and enough to cause a bridal headache. So whilst you’re working up a sweat to get your body in tip top shape, take some time to get your mind ready too, so you’ll be beautiful inside and out when you walk down the aisle.

Do the Downward Dog Even if you can’t touch your toes, try some yoga.

Yoga has a multitude of emotional healing attributes, including relieving stress and encouraging mindfulness and calm.

Shrink the Stress The fat busting Shrinking Violet Body Wrap allows you to lie back and unwind, all while helping to remove pesky pounds. And with many treatments coming with a facial, you’ll also leave with a healthy glow.

Have a Massage There are multiple physical benefits from having a massage including relieving muscular tension, but most importantly they can help reduce anxiety and help perk up your spirits

Take a Time Out Stop, sit, and enjoy a peaceful few hours of doing nothing. Forget about all the tasks that need done, just relax and enjoy the moment, preferably with a glass of wine, and revel in the excitement that

when feeling low.

you’re getting married soon.

Expect the Unexpected Expect there will be stressful moments and that things will crop up. By expecting it you’ll be better prepared and equipped to deal with it.

Get Perspective If the stress levels are mounting, go on a date night with your beloved and get some perspective on why you’re organising the wedding in the first place

HEALTH & BEAUTY

...take some time to get your mind ready too, so you’ll be beautiful inside and out when you walk down the aisle.

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38 | WEDDING PARTY

From fluffing the bride’s train and holding her flowers, to organising elaborate hen parties and attending numerous dress fittings, the role of a bridesmaid is not for the faint hearted.

WORDS BY EMMA LEIPER FINLAYSON

WEDDING PARTY

time honoured tradition dating back to the Roman Age, the original role of the bridesmaid was to protect virginal brides from potential kidnappers and, perhaps more ominously, vengeful spirits.

Whilst today’s maids have less constabulary duties, they can bear the burden of bridal expectations that can push even the closest of brides and maids apart during the nuptial arrangements.

Great Expectations The honour of being a bridesmaid is a wonderful feeling and is, for the most part, a rewarding experience, but there’s nothing like a wedding to bring out the bridezilla in the best of us. Many a maid can find herself gritting her teeth as her bridezilla bestie commands yet another task of her on top of an already timeconsuming list of jobs.

And on the wedding day itself, it’s not all sitting around in hair curlers

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drinking prosecco and getting your make up done. You’ll more likely find yourself running around making sure the groom doesn’t see the bride before the ceremony, gathering wayward guests for photos, and helping the bride to the toilet when her gown proves too restrictive to go herself.

It’s tough work, but some maids have to do it.

Bridal Prerogative If you’re a bride about to make that all important bridesmaid ask, think carefully about what you’ll expect your bridesmaids to help with, and be upfront with them about it so there are no last minute surprises - and potential bridal fallouts!

Prospective bridesmaids would likewise do well to be upfront about their own limitations of what they can or are willing to do. Wrestling with a bridal gown in a toilet may well be all in a wedding day’s work for some bridesmaids, but make sure you’re up for the task before saying yes to the bridesmaid dress!

40 | TRAVEL ADVERTISEMENTS

Luxurious, exotic, and adventurous A Honeymoon in the Western Cape has it all WORDS BY EMMA LEIPER FINLAYSON

ith its mountainous ranges and sandy beaches stretching from coast to coast, the Western Cape’s Garden Route is famous for its vast natural beauty and its vibrant and cosmopolitan towns. The first, and perhaps most important, port of call on the Garden Route is Cape Town. Its lively Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a place to do some serious shopping or to relax and take in the majestic views of the ocean and mountains with a glass of wine at one its many bars.

aboard a hair-raising cable car. Named so because of its flat summit, visitors can explore the mountain, say hello to the indigenous animals, enjoy some fine dining at high altitude and, for the strong of heart, abseil down the mountain.

If you like your wine served with a little

Venture off the coast to the university town of Stellenbosch. Nestled between the mountains, Stellenbosch has a strong Dutch history still visible today in the town’s architecture. The town boasts beautiful boutique bars and, for the culture buffs, a wealth of art galleries. It is most well known for its wine and surrounding vineyards. All are unique in their own way, but all serenely beautiful and

adventure, head to the top of Table Mountain

with luscious wine for the tasting.

A seven hour drive will take you to Plettenberg Bay, a wonderful little beach village famed for its paragliding, kayaking and whale watching experiences. If that all sounds like a little too much activity for you, relax on the terrace with a cocktail or take a coffee at the beach cafe.

No trip to South Africa is complete without a safari showcasing the landscape and taking you up close and personal to the animals that South Africa is famous for. It’s an unforgettable experience and an incredible way to end your time in the Western Cape.

TRAVEL

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...take in the majestic views of the ocean and mountains with a glass of wine at one its many bars.

• BLUSH BRIDAL 42 Frithside Street, Fraserburgh T: 01346 516851 www.blushbridal.scot

• MICHELLE REID HAIRDRESSING Based at Donna Frost Hair, 14 Correction Wynd, Aberdeen T: 01224 640222 E: mlrhairdressing@hotmail.co.uk

• FAIRYTALE EVENTS 70 Ardarroch Road, Aberdeen T: 01224 639937 www.fairytale-events.eu

• IVORY GRACE 364 Great Western Road, Aberdeen T: 01224 469964 www.ivorygrace.co.uk

• REBECCA CARR HAIR SALON Unit 1, Midmill Parade, Kintore T: 01467 632865 www.rebeccacarrhairsalon.co.uk

• YOUR PLANNING ANGEL 10 Lansdown Road, Swindon T: 01793 320652 www.yourplanningangel.co.uk

• FERGUS & GLOVER 160 Union Street, Aberdeen T: 01224 644876 www.fergusandglover.co.uk

• BEAU HAT HIRE 23 Carnie Drive, Elrick T: 07540 418990 www.beauhathire.com

• EXECUTIVE CHAUFFEUR SERVICES T: 07926 001 044 info@chauffeursaberdeen.co.uk www.chauffeursaberdeen.co.uk

• CELEBRATION CAKE SHOP 137 Crown Street, Aberdeen T: 01224 595566 www.celebrationcakeshop.com

• FINNIES THE JEWELLERS 219-223 George Street, Aberdeen T: 01224 636632 www.finniesjewellers.co.uk

• BALLOGIE HOUSE Ballogie Estate Office, Ballogie T: 01339 886497 www.ballogie-estate.co.uk

• ENCHANTING MERCHANT CO. T: 07715 942000 E: info@theenchantingmerchantco.com www.theenchantingmerchantco.com

• LAVA JEWELLERY 265 N Deeside Road, Peterculter T: 01224 735000 www.lavajewellery.co.uk

• BEACH BALLROOM Beach Promenade, Aberdeen T: 01224 647647 www.beachballroom.com

• LINDA'S BAKING WITHOUT 137 Crown Street, Aberdeen T: 01224 595566 Linda’s Baking Without

• MCCALLS JEWELLERS 11 Bridge Street, Aberdeen T: 01224 405303 www.mccallsjewellers.co.uk

• RAEMOIR HOUSE HOTEL Banchory, Aberdeenshire T: 01330 824884 www.raemoir.com

• I-CANDY HAIR & BEAUTY 93 Charleston Road North, Cove T: 01224 875175

• CATHERINES OF PARTICK 106-114 Dumbarton Road, Glasgow T: 0141 339 1351 www.catherinesofpartick.co.uk

• TORNACOILLE HOTEL Inchmarlo Road, Banchory T: 01330 822242 www.tornacoille.com

• DEFINITION SKIN & LASER CLINIC 19a Chattan Place, Aberdeen T: 01224 433111 www.definitionclinic.co.uk

• @HAMISHMUNRO 19 - 25 Thistle Street, Aberdeen T: 01224 641388 www.something-for-me.co.uk

• FLEXISTORE Barclyhill Place, Portlethen T: 01224 870000 www.flexistore.co.uk

• LAUREN ALEXANDRA MAKEUP 22 Simpson Street, Insch T: 07502 265531 www.laurenalexandramua.com

• DONNA MURRAY PHOTOGRAPHY The Idea Factory, 20 Mearns Street, Aberdeen T: 01224 660200 www.donnamurrayphotography.com

• THE NATIONAL TRUST FOR SCOTLAND Hermiston Quay, 5 Cultins Road, Edinburgh T: 0131 458 0200 www.nts.org.uk/weddings

WORDS BY PURDEY LINES

ADVERTISEMENTS CATERING

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Catering for a Delicious Wedding As you are choosing each detail of your wedding day, your menu must also be perfect and incorporate your vision. When looking at menu details incorporate what is in season and can be sourced locally as much as possible. As you work with your caterers to create your unique theme they will be able to advise you so that the locally sourced ingredients complement the exquisite experience of your special day.

Another point to consider when celebrating on your wedding day with family and friends, is the alcohol served is just as important as the food. Why not try a new catering trend for 2017, which is the infusion of alcohol and local botanicals within wedding cuisine.

When looking at menu details incorporate what is in season and can be sourced locally as much as possible.

Based in picturesque rural Aberdeenshire, as a small family-run business, Country Flavours is renowned for its tailored and tasty wedding fare. With pride in their personal and high-quality service, they have shared with us some great ideas to make choosing your menu even more enjoyable. www.countryflavoursofalford.co.uk

Inset Top: Deeside Smoked Salmon Bilinis Inset Bottom: Handmade Pate and Petite Oatcake, Prawn Marie Rose Glass, Chinese spoon casing pearls of Galia melon with pink champagne sorbet. Both images Š Deeside Photographics. Main Image: Smoked Deeside Salmon on a bed of lemon balm salad leaves, fresh capers and vinaigrette. Š Janie Barclay Photography

44 | PLANNING

WORDS BY EMMA LEIPER FINLAYSON

Helping couples turn their dreams for their perfect wedding into a reality is what inspired events planner, Heather Angell, to set up Your Planning Angel in February 2015.

'I didn’t have a wedding planner for my own big day’, explains Heather, ‘and it was a stressful affair from the very start, not knowing what I really wanted and what to book. The worst part was on my actual wedding day where I had to spend a lot of time advising the venue on last minute details instead of enjoying my special day. I wish I’d had a planner to help guide me through the whole process to alleviate the stress and the worry caused.’

Since establishing Your Planning Angel, Heather’s been using her keen eye for detail and her panache for creativity to develop a winning wedding formula for couples around the UK, helping them to lose the stress but not their style during the wedding planning process.

For Heather, the key to unlocking a couple’s vision of their ultimate wedding is to encourage them to think big. ‘Budgets, seasons, locations and logistics all play a big role in your wedding’, she says, ‘but I always ask my clients to describe to me what their dream wedding

would look like if none of those things were to hold them back. From thereon I can prioritise where the budget should be spent to create their perfect day.’

For the novice wedding planning bride and groom, it’s fair to say that a complimentary consultation with Heather could save a lot of money - and heartache.

And for those in the planning stages of their own wedding, what top tips would Heather give? ‘Be organised! Keep all of your suppliers’ details and the service that they’re providing on a spreadsheet.’ And most importantly? ‘Once you’ve booked your flowers, avoid Pinterest - you’ll only start second guessing your choice!’

PLANNING

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46 | DESIGNER

Stephanie Allin has been making brides feel exquisitely beautiful for over 25 years with her fashion forward designer gowns.

Innovative and creative, designer Stephanie has never shied away from experimenting with shapes, styles and colours, and

Awash with exquisite lace, sequins and bead detail throughout, the collection is at once contemporary and classic. Soft metallic

the fusion of trend and traditionalism has set the designer apart as a trendsetter in bridal fashion.

tones and muted shades contrast with soft tulles and floaty chiffons, whilst the show-stopping gowns with their long sleeves, high necks and separates complete the continental collection.

At Stephanie Allin Couture, every dress is specially designed and handmade in the UK, giving the brand a unique flexibility.

With two shops of her own, one in London and one in Wales, Stephanie spends a great deal of time with her brides allowing her to fully understand what a modern bride is looking for.

Drawing from her wealth of experience and dedication to excellence, Stephanie prides herself on using only the finest of fabrics specially sourced from France and Italy to create original designs with figure enhancing corsetry and impeccable fit.

It is with this passion for the highest of quality and the quest for the best of modern style comes Stephanie’s 2017 Bellissimo collection. Inspired by luxe glamour and sophistication with an Italian edge, the collection embodies the beauty, romance and allure of Italy.

By wearing a Stephanie Allin dress, a bride will be sure to add a certain ‘je nais sais quoi’ to her special day, and will be confident that when she walks down the aisle she’ll be drenched in the vigour of Italian sunshine, glamour and romance. For Stephanie, there’s no better feeling than knowing she’s helped create that magical moment. ‘I really do have the best job in the world,’ she says.

Stephanie Allin Couture is stocked at Ivory Grace bridal boutique, Aberdeen.

www.ivorygrace.co.uk www.stephanieallin.net

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