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WEDDING
536 Inspiring AUGUST • SEPTEMBER 2013 £4.99
no place like home hot honeymoons in the uK
LOOKS
for a chic big day that’s utterly wow
the big £££ issue it’s all about the money, money, money...
reaL or riP-oFF?
we investigate the cost in the quote
Amazing dresses Our pick of the new season’s styles
the SOUND OF SUMMeR the best tunes to get your party started
dont miss! your uLtimate PLanning guide
The enchanted
forest
Take inspiration from the great outdoors and work a little boho charm into your day Just when you think you’ve seen every interpretation of vintage, another with real wow factor comes along: “The team behind this shoot was inspired by the magical and the enchanting, and we wanted to capture those elements and combine it with vintage,” explains photographer Jenny Sun. embrace a wild setting and use the rustic-inspired details with confidence; incorporating plenty of moss, berries, vines and fruits into your décor. Blowsy bunches of ‘Paper’ and ‘easter’ daisies, ranunculus, dried lotus, succulents and olive branch foliage will create a beautifully natural vibe, while old wooden barrels make perfect table-tops for welcome drinks. Bring the indoors out – and take your décor to the next level – by adorning furnishings, such as chairs and ladders, with vines and foliage. All the while, luxe finishing touches such as silver cutlery and glass bowls contrast beautifully with the natural backdrop. Finally, no ethereal bridal style is complete without a headdress. A delicate floral circlet will give any bridal gown a lift, or try plaiting blooms into your hair for real petal pretty. W
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WEDDING style
Concept and styling: The Bridal Collective (www.thebridalcollective.com) Photography: Jenny Sun (www.jennysunblog.com) Flowers: Chanele Rose Flowers (www.chanelerose.com.au) Cake: Yummy Cupcakes & Cakes (www.yummycupcakes.com.au) Stationery: The Little Paper Pantry (www.littlepaperpantry.com) Bird’s nest: Bloom Design Studio (www.etsy.com/shop/BloomDesignStudio) Dresses: Celest Thoi (www.celestthoi.com) Hair and make-up: Amy Chan (www.amychan.net) Model: Monique Kathleen at Model Mayhem (www.modelmayhem.com/ moniquewright) Location: Belgenny Farm (www.belgennyfarm.com.au) www.weddingmagazine.co.uk
WeDDing
WoRDS: DAnieLLe WiLKinS
Contributors
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A vision in pink Kalen and Parks tied the knot in a stylish celebration with floral wow-factor
♼
KAlen & PArKs Kalen, 27, a boutique owner, and Parks, 31, owner of a sports chain, married with a ceremony and reception at Old Edwards Inn & Spa, North Carolina
The atmosphere... We wanted a sophisticated day with plenty of colour and a little bit of the countryside thrown in. The venue had a low-key vibe, it was the perfect blank canvas for experimenting with colour and draping, and could be totally transformed by our wedding planner, Calder Clark. She helped develop the entire look of the day with a plethora of pink hues to create a romantic and fun atmosphere. The showstopper had to be our hand-stenciled, lace-effect dancefloor. The look... After searching for a dress in New York, I found one which suited me perfectly. It was a lace Pronovias gown: pretty and feminine, without being too girlie. My www.weddingmagazine.co.uk
bridesmaids wore gorgeous silver-coloured dresses with necklaces from my boutique. The bouquets comprised peonies, garden roses and phalaenopsis orchids, amongst other blooms. Our floral designer mixed bold flowers with garden varieties for a soft look.
“The reception room was decorated with deep pink linen, corrugated zinc containers and gold chiavari chairs.� The details... Our ceremony featured 6,000 handmade paper flowers attached to the pleated fabric which draped across the ceiling. We had a cocktail party in the barn,
where four central bars were set against a stunning floral focal piece. Lounge furniture and walls of blooms in the fireplaces kept the feel both cosy and elegant. The reception room was decorated with deep pink linen, corrugated zinc containers and gold chiavari chairs. I wanted to create a feminine feel, but with a light-hearted ambience. My favourite moment... My most memorable moment was probably the quiet time Parks and I enjoyed after the ceremony where we could have our pictures taken and steal a few kisses. My tip for brides-to-be... Hire a planner, and relax! That way you can kick back and enjoy the ride. s
COMPILed bY: eMMA vINCe
Hydrangeas add impact to large floral displays.
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Hello, sunshine Julie and Dominic showed how a vibrant splash of colour can tie a big day together beautifully
♥
julie & Dominic Julie, 29, an assistant head teacher and Dominic, 29, a technical sales director, married at St James’ & St Paul’s Church in Marton with a reception at Sandhole Oak Barn, Cheshire The atmosphere... We wanted to create an upbeat vibe by including some retro details in our day. Our rustic barn venue was on a farm in the countryside and felt peaceful and spacious. Dom’s favourite colour is yellow so this was a running theme, which we complemented with hessian and lace elements. An old record player, VW Beetle car and my beehive hairstyle all added to the 1950s look.
The look... I was a bit of a nightmare bride when it came to choosing my dress. I changed my mind four times! I finally chose a fitted fishtail, which I accessoried with a pair of funky yellow heels and a mix of old, new, borrowed and blue jewellery. I wanted the bouquets to have a just-picked look; the colour was predominately yellow with small narcissi and ranunculus. My bridesmaids wore blue gowns from Nordstrom with delicate yellow pins in their hair. The boys wore suits hired from Moss Bros with bright yellow ties. The details... I wanted a mismatched style for our reception décor. I collected a selection of tins to use for the tablecentres, which proved to be a great talking point for guests. The tableplan, an old vintage record player, was my favourite feature. We ordered seven of our favourite songs in vinyl and
printed labels for each record to display the seating plan. The record sleeves were used as the table names. Each of our guests were given a miniature bottle of lemon schnapps, which added to our colour scheme and was something people could drink on the day.
“Dom’s favourite colour is yellow, which we complemented with hessian and lace elements.” My favourite moment... I loved entering the room for the breakfast; Dom and I high-fived everyone who lined the way! My tip for brides-to-be... Don’t settle for second best when it comes to suppliers. The easy options are very tempting but the stress, time and research invested into making it your perfect day is well worth it. W
Steal their Style Country blooms: Julie heard about The Traditional Flower Company on a blog, and met with the florist, Sam, on her farm to discuss the style of the wedding. “The company has a natural, rustic style and uses only seasonal flowers,” says Julie. “This was perfect for us because i didn’t want my flowers to look too flawless. The spring flowers included daffodils, tulips, ranunculus and salix caprea.” Bright balloons: Julie and dominic released 125 helium balloons as part of their day. On arrival, each guest wrote messages to the couple and attached them to the balloons. “They looked amazing against the clear blue sky and it was great fun,” says Julie. “We received emails from people who found the balloons – one got as far south as dorset!”
Hessian table runners will add a touch of rustic charm.
COMPiled By: eMMa ViNCe
Photographer: Claire Penn (www.clairepennphotography.com) Venue: Sandhole Oak Barn (www.sandholeoakbarn.co.uk) Florist: The Traditional Flower Company (www.traditionalflower.co.uk) Bride’s dress: Fairytales by Sherry (www.fairytalesbysherry.com) Bridesmaid dresses: Nordstrom (www.shop.nordstrom.com) Groomswear: Moss Bros (www.moss.co.uk)
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WEDDING receptions
Styling
your dream day From neon hues to luxe gold details, the experts who coined this season’s hottest looks show us how
CONTRIBUTORS Photography: Rosie Parsons at LoveLuxe Blog (www.loveluxeblog.com) Flowers: Frog Flowers (www.frogflowers.co.uk) Stationery: BerinMade (www.berinmade.com) Cakes, cookies and marshmallows: Cakes By Beth (www.cakesbybeth.co.uk) Location: goldney Hall, Bristol (www.bristol.ac.uk/goldney) 132
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WEDDING receptions
COLOUR POP Vicki DeBlasi and Michelle Kelly from Pocketful Of Dreams (www.pocketfulofdreams.co.uk)
Candy-stripe cake, £475 (serves 90), Sweetness
Create the look
‘Sally’ invitation, from £2.50, Project Pretty
American tumblers, £9.50 (set of four), Marks & Spencer
s
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Kitchen Craft charger plate, £5, House of Fraser
This shoot reflects everything we strive to be; artistic, vibrant and fun. We chose a base palette of hot pink, turquoise and gold with accents of deep purple and yellow, plus the addition of hessian to add texture. The chairs are an easy-to-steal design idea. We took some wool and yarn and looped it through the lattice at the back. Create a similar look with ribbon or ripped fabric. Like all good things, you can go too far with colour. With very bright hues, avoid trying to match everything in just one shade. instead build a palette with one focal colour which sits well with a series of coordinating shades. if hot pink is your thing, add red, blush pink or white for a coordinated look. We find inspiration by scouring markets, flicking through magazines and embarking on our own travelling adventures. We’re often sending each other pictures of shop window displays we love. Often a small idea will snowball and spark lots of new ones. it’s important to get away from the computer and everything that’s been done before. We love shops which showcase artisan designers. Visit online shops such as etsy, Made, Apartment Therapy, design Sponge and Bright Bazaar. Don’t think you have to match your style to your venue. Pastel-coloured paper pom-poms in an industrial venue will help to soften the space, while battered old furniture in an all-white contemporary gallery adds a sense of drama. Wedding 133
WEDDING lorem
gReAT
Simple
makes
venue dĂŠcor
FOR
Help save those precious pennies and get crafty with these diY reception ideas
Tip
: Continue the heart bunting trend on your Cake with a simple-butsweet paper Cake topper
Rough iced cake, ÂŁ245 (serves 65), Fancy nancy. Cake stand, cake slice and jam-jars, all stylist's own
000
Wedding
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WEDDING makes
Tip:
Words and styling: Cassie PryCe. PhotograPhy: lizzie orme (WWW.lizzieorme.Co.uk). for stoCkists, see Page 256
Put your own stamP on the design by using music sheet PaPer from your first dance song
great for
country
weddings
2
freeze-dried delphinium petals, £10.95 (one litre), and vintage postcard print, £4.50, both the Wedding of my dreams. floral roll wrap, £4, Caroline gardner
heart bunting
Confetti Cones
1 2
Cut your a4 card into 3cm-wide strips and fold each one in half. bend the two ends to meet in the middle and form a heart shape, securing with double-sided tape. Punch a hole through the centre join and both sides, then thread the twine through the holes and slide on as many of your creations as your heart desires!
3
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1
Cut your paper into 15cm squares and make a 1cm fold along two adjacent sides. Place a thin strip of double-sided tape along one fold and bend the paper together to join the two folds and create a cone shape. decorate your cone however you wish; ribbon, bows and stickers make for cute finishing touches.
2
Coloured card (x 2), Hobbycraft Baker's twine (1m), Peach Blossom Total for 10 hearts Price per heart
£0.50 £0.40 £0.90 £0.09
3
Patterned paper, from Hobbycraft £0.25 Large round brown Kraft stickers, (20), Pipii £1.75 Total for 10 cones Price per cone
£3.40 £0.34
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WEDDING budgets
Big-day costs: real or rip-off? From venue hire to vendors, we look at the real costs behind your wedding day
E
ver since he proposed you’ve been singing from the rooftops that you’re (cue loud speaker) getting married. But as you begin calling suppliers, you’re starting to wonder whether you should be saying the word ‘wedding’ a little quieter, or even at all. Could the nature of your event be a green light for prices to soar? “it’s common knowledge that as soon as you mention the word ‘wedding’, prices will go up,” says planner emma Zamani-Hawke of Hawke & Hughes (www.hawkeandhughes.com). “But what brides might not understand is that it’s usually for very good reason; suppliers tend to take more time over weddings to make sure everything’s spot on and personalised to the couple’s needs.” Here, we take a look at five significant big spends.
Big-day spend: Photography “Hiring a photographer for a wedding will prove more costly than usual, but they’re not pulling a fast one,” says professional snapper Bethan Jones of Haywood Jones Photography (www.haywoodjonesphotography.co.uk). There’s often a great deal more time spent in planning and postproduction: “Many people think of wedding photography as somebody arriving, taking pictures and then going home, but on the day i’ll shoot for between 10 and 12 hours and then spend the best part of a week editing the photos,” she says. “Between consulting with the couple, taking the pictures, travelling and editing, each wedding takes around two weeks of my time.” There are also overhead costs which photographers have to factor in, from the expense of camera lenses to equipment costs and insurance.
MAX YOUR BUDGET Find a local photographer whose work you love and save money on travel costs to meetings, venue visits and on the big day itself. if you are marrying out of season you might be able to agree a reduced rate. Similarly, less-experienced photographers may offer a good deal to build their portfolio but be wary that they are just starting out. enquire about package deals and ask if your photographer offers a gift list service where friends and family can contribute to the cost.
Big-day spend: Hair if you’re wondering why bridal hair costs more than your usual up-do at your local salon, it’s down to time and expertise: “A bride’s hair will involve working with other elements such as the accessories and veil,” says celebrity hairdresser Joseph Koniak. “if you are tempted to use a local salon or your regular hairdresser, check their portfolio as many salons will be equipped for hairstyling rather than hairdressing, and there is a difference. it takes years to develop the right skills.” Many high-end hairdressers will offer complimentary consultations and trials, as well as transport as part of their packages.
It’s common knowledge that as soon as you mention ‘wedding’, prices will go up, but usually for very good reason.
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MAX YOUR BUDGET if you have a big bridal party, ask about the possibility of group discounts. Look through magazines for hair inspiration; if there’s one time you’re likely to recreate Jennifer Aniston’s lush locks, this is it!
Big-day spend: Venue Your venue hire can account for up to half of your wedding budget – and yet the price can fluctuate depending on the day of the week, or time of the year. But what sets your day aside from a christening or birthday celebration? “Venue packages allow for extras, such as setting up the night before, accommodation for the bridal party and the extra cost of liaising with external vendors and suppliers,” says emma. “That doesn’t mean couples can’t shop around for a good deal. Because weddings tend to fall on weekends, you could save if you’re more flexible with the day,” she explains. “There are also some very www.weddingmagazine.co.uk
WEDDING budgets
good deals to be had for lastminute dates.” MAX YOUR BUDGET Venue packages can save you money, but check exactly what the package includes so you’re not suddenly hit with any hidden extras. ask if the venue offers a discount for using its preferred vendors.
Big-day spend: Flowers there might not be an obvious difference between the tablecentres you want for your www.weddingmagazine.co.uk
to get to know the couple and help them choose the flowers and arrangements to suit their day.” Your florist will also look after every detail, from design, planning and production, to delivery, set-up and clear down. “my customers aren’t just paying for the flowers, it’s the full bespoke service which ensures total trust and
confidence in everything looking perfect on the day,” she adds. MAX YOUR BUDGET The more flexible you can be with blooms, the bigger saving you can make. speak to your florist about using locally grown or seasonal varieties to cut down on costs.
Big-day spend: Entertainment A packed dancefloor is a sure sign of a great wedding, but dJs will charge more for a first dance gig. “When i do a corporate event, in comparison to a wedding there are definitely differences in price,” says dJ, barney grossman of Party events unlimited (www. partyeventsunlimited.co.uk). “for weddings, i spend around 20 hours preparing beforehand – organising meetings, writing personalised scripts and researching music. however, couples don’t necessarily see this extra work. the presentation at weddings has to be impeccable – for example, the equipment can’t be scuffed with trailing wires. If the equipment fails at a birthday party, it’s a disappointment but it’s not a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. If my equipment breaks at a wedding, it will have ruined someone’s special day. to stop this from happening i have two of everything and bring double the amount of equipment I would usually need.” MAX YOUR BUDGET get as much as you can for your money by allowing your dJ to be part of the whole reception. having somebody outside of the wedding party to introduce the cake cutting or first dance will help the evening flow smoothly.
Our verdict: suppliers will put extra care and attention into your big day – and rightly so. but that doesn’t mean there’s any harm in doing your research and tracking down a good deal during the planning process. W
Words: emma Vince. PhotograPhy almay; PhotograPhy by Vicki (WWW.PhotograPhybyVicki.co.uk/blog); one loVe PhotograPhy (WWW.oneloVePhotograPhy.com.au). floWers: chanele rose (WWW.chanelerose.com.au)
wedding and those at the corporate dinner across the corridor, so why will your bill be higher? florist charlie Quartley from the Flower Fairies (www.theflowerfairies.com) suggests it’s because you’re paying for a more tailored service. “the vast majority of my weddings are bespoke and i will individually design each arrangement to suit the needs of the couple,” she says. “it only takes basic floristry skills to create a domed bouquet of roses, but for a wedding i would take the time
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Super
naturaL Choose floating fabrics and long, lean shapes for bridal style that’s packed with country charm PhotograPhy: adrian green Styling: lizanne harris
Ivory silk dress, £4,500, Temperley London. Ivory flower headdress, £90, Katya Katya Shehurina. Bangle, £249, H.Samuel. GROOM: Tan lightweight wool suit, £650, printed cotton shirt, £95, and brown leather shoes, £295, all Marc Wallace. FLOWERGIRL: Chiffon dress, £75, Tulip & Nettle. Flower garland, £5, basket, £10, and ivory pumps, £20, all Monsoon
Grecian Gold Choose swathes of lightweight chiffon and draped silk for perfectly gorgeous Aphrodite-inspired style
PHoToGRAPHY: CONSTANTINOS TSILIACOS STYlING: LIzANNe hArrIS
Ivory chiffon dress with crystal beading, price on application, Mori lee. Ivory satin ribbon (used in hair), from a selection, John lewis. Bangle, ÂŁ15, Jon Richard. Sandals, ÂŁ75, Aspiga
The spiriT of
advenTure
Head east for a stylish escape to the Thai capital of Bangkok, where five-star hospitality meets laidback culture
i
t didn’t take long to discover that most of the delights of Bangkok couldn’t be found in a guidebook. Step out of the affluent, air-conditioned shopping areas boasting a wealth of designer boutiques and international eateries, and you’ll discover a wondrous feast for the senses: vendors lined along the cramped streets selling fresh fruit and stir-fried shrimp on sticks, colourful tuk-tuks honking loudly as they zoom in and out of the busy traffic and by night, a sea of twinkling lights make up the city skyline.
makes it an idyllic spot to reside after a day of sightseeing. Peaceful indeed, but each room has wonderful views over the bustling river traffic and city skyline, so you’re never too far from the buzz of the metropolis. To get an idea of the luxury you have in store, each room has super-rich décor naturally influenced by the Mandarin’s surroundings. Traditional Thai silks adorn the beds, and dark teak wood makes up the luxe furnishings. Take advantage of the plush extras including
URBAN GLAMOUR There’s a wealth of hotels to explore, but by far the coolest place to stay is the Mandarin Oriental. Beguiling and beautiful, its peaceful setting on the banks of the Chao Phraya river
silk bathrobes, huge walk-in showers and butler service on every floor. If you can wake yourself up early enough, open the curtains, stay in bed and watch as the sun rises over the sky-scraping buildings before you. If it’s good enough for the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Michael Jackson and more recently Jude Law and Kate Moss, it’s good enough for us. 216
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ALL IN GOOD TASTE One of the best things to savour is the Mandarin’s culinary offerings. Start your day on the terrace, absorb the riverside surroundings and pile your plate high with fresh fruit and pastries, while having your eggs cooked however you wish. Choose from a number of romantic dining locations in the evening, including Ciao, which serves classic Italian cuisine, Lord Jim’s for the best in seafood, or cross the river to Sala Rim Naam for a taste of traditional Thai food while being entertained by local dancers. If you’re feeling inspired by the creative cuisine, the Mandarin is home to Thailand’s oldest cookery school. Book yourselves into a class and learn how to create everything from stir-fries to soups, as your instructor skillfully demonstrates traditional Thai cooking methods for you to follow. it certainly doesn’t feel anything like school; just pure unadulterated fun. So much so, even wellknown celebrity chefs come here to learn from the best. Another gem is the blissful Oriental Spa. Located across the river, it can’t be described as anything other than a haven of tranquility, where experienced therapists deliver masterful massages and pioneering spa experiences to leave you feeling replenished. www.weddingmagazine.co.uk
WEDDING honeymoons
DO...
You’ll discover a wondrous feast for the senses; by night, a sea of twinkling lights make up the city skyline.
WORdS: dAnieLLe WiLKinS. PHOTOgRAPHY: geTTY iMAgeS; FOuR CORneRS iMAgeS
CITY SIZZLERS While a long-tailed boat down the river is one of the main ways to get around in Bangkok, the Mandarin is conveniently located near the city’s Skytrain, which will take you directly into the heart. Prepare yourself for a whole lot of hubbub as you bag yourself some quality threads from would-be designers on the street stalls, and be inspired by the colours and displays at the renowned Pak Khlong Talat flower market. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, the sheer size and beauty of this market makes it well worth exploring. An exhilarating 15-minute boat trip from the hotel will take you to all the must-visit landmarks, including the Temple of dawn, grand Palace and awe-inspiring Temple of the Reclining Buddha, one of the largest of its kind in the world. if you plan on getting your sightseeing fix during the day, the night markets are a must for avid shoppers wanting to squeeze in some retail therapy before or after dinner. You can’t go to Bangkok without succumbing to the merry madness of the city’s notorious nightlife district, Patpong, for hundreds of stalls selling everything from t-shirts and sunglasses to Thai trinkets. With all the commotion from the go-go bars that line these streets, it’s chaotic, but it adds a certain charm and liveliness you can’t help but get sucked into. For those feeling less brave, take a boat taxi from the hotel to Asiatique night market, a more contemporary shopping www.weddingmagazine.co.uk
Head to the spa (pictured left) for a meditative yoga session, a blissful and addictive way to start your mornings. Visit renowned entrepreneur Jim Thompson’s house in the city. during his stay in Bangkok, Thompson made the silk industry what it is today, and the house he built in 1959 is a fascinating insight into his life before he unexpectedly went missing in Malaysia in 1967. Chill out in the Mandarin Oriental Author’s Lounge, where you can enjoy a traditional Thai-inspired afternoon tea.
spot boasting a marvellous cacophony of stalls and boutiques. However you choose to end your stay, cocktails at the Sky Bar at Sirocco, the world’s highest open-air bar, is a must-do. Just a 10-minute walk from the Mandarin, the oval-shaped bar juts out over the edge of the city, with the most breathtaking panorama. enjoy the warm breeze as you absorb the cool atmosphere, made even more famous by hosting The Hangover II boys during filming in Bangkok. Whether you choose to soak up the energy of the city for the whole of your honeymoon, or retreat to a beach sanctuary of your choice in the south for the latter part of your stay, one thing’s for sure, the Thai capital is chic once again. W
BOOK... Four nights at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok in a Superior Room starts from £1,599 per person, based on two sharing. Price includes breakfast, return flights and transfers with Cleveland Collection (020 7843 3531, www.clevelandcollection.co.uk). For details about Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, visit www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok Wedding 217