Wint er 20 17
WEST
weddings
FREE COVERING BATH, BRISTOL, GLOUCESTERSHIRE, SOMERSET & WILTSHIRE
Country CHIC Aldwick Court Farm and Vineyard has it
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Find your dancing shoes
Go green on the big day
Festive sparkles
Save the air fare and go local
All the beauty treats you need at winter
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PAGE 10 & 11
PAGE 18 & 19
A.Y. Dance can help perfect your dance
VENUES • BRIDAL GOWNS • HEN PARTIES • DECORATION • BEAUTY • HAIRSTYLES • AND MORE
� Experience perfection �
Country House Weddings Exclusively Weddings, Exclusively Yours
Gloucestershire
Clearwell Castle 01594 832320
Somerset
Essex
01984 633633
01245 362555
St Audries Park
Leez Priory
Essex
Gosfield Hall 01787 472914
Award-winning venues • Exclusive use • Luxury accommodation Exquisite food • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies & Civil Partnerships
www.countryhouseweddings.co.uk
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Contents
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13
Aldwick Court Farm & Vineyard Christmas proposals A.Y. Dance Hen party tips Where to party in Bristol Suave Owl Go green Let them eat cake Ellie Rose Bridal gowns
14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 24 26
Make up tips A magical location Hair tips Up dos for ‘I do’ Beautify yourself Groom accessories Grooming for grooms Stick to a budget Venues directory Budget planner
Photo: Daniel Sprackman Photography
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Aldwick Court Farm & Vineyard invites you to look round its spectacular grounds
EDITOR Rachael Moon rachael.moon@ trinitymirror.com
DESIGNER
Jill Rowbotham jill.rowbotham@ trinitymirror.com
ADVERTISING SALES Jacqui Lewis 0117 934 3136 jacqui.lewis@ localworld.co.uk
West Weddings is published by the Bristol Post. Copyright of editorial contents held by Trinity Mirror. Reproduction in part or in whole is forbidden save with the express permission of the publishers. It is not our intention to print any matter that discriminates on the grounds of race, sex, sexuality or disability. Advertisements are accepted according to our terms and conditions.
INTRODUCTION SO YOU’VE a new, sparkly ring on your finger and suddenly you’ve been catapulted into the weird and wonderful world of wedding planning. But where to start? Planning a wedding can seem a little
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overwhelming at first, but there’s no need to worry. Over these pages we’ve got everything you need to plan your dream wedding, from dresses to your first adventure as a married couple. There’s even a very handy checklist on
page 26, starting at one year prior to the big day, to keep everything (including you) in check and on schedule. Then all you need to worry about is how you’ll strut down the aisle and practising your first dance together. Enjoy!
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BRISTOL HEN PARTIES Find something for everyone near you
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LOCATION
Make your wedding magical with the right location
GOOD HAIR DAY No matter what your bridal ‘do, get your hair in tip top shape with these tips
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PROMOTION
DON'T BE SHEEPISH At Aldwick Court Farm & Vineyard you’ll find all you need at your engagement-ringed fingertips... ON Sunday January 14, 2018, Aldwick Court Farm & Vineyard will welcome newly engaged couples planning their wedding day to look around its beautiful, well-appointed venue.
Make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to meet the Aldwick team and soak in the atmosphere of the rustic farm buildings, all set in secluded, sweeping gardens with countryside views. Admission is free and the expert team – who strive to ensure your big day is a five-star success – will be on-hand to talk you through their services and your specific requirements. View the Old Barn, which is licensed for civil
ceremonies, and will be dressed for a wedding ceremony. You can also sample delicious canapés prepared by Taste Buds, Aldwick’s in-house caterers, and explore your menu options with them. And, to complement the food, you will get the chance to sample Aldwick vineyard’s wine. Because really, why marry at a vineyard if not to serve your guests the award-winning, estate-produced wine? Meet Aldwick’s recommended suppliers, including florists, photographers, wedding cake designers, entertainers, resident DJ, local hoteliers and B&B hosts. Open from 11am to 3pm. Photos: Daniel Sprackman Photography.
Call us on 01454 260207
for 201� packages
Let us make your dreams a reality at Mercure Bristol North The Grange
ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE £3999 based on 50 day and 80 evening guests
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beautiful al wedding venue with Eastwood Park is an ide se r, t within a on and unique characte views, secluded locati e 200 acre country estat 12 ��� ld, �loucestershire, �� Eastwood Park, �al�e raphy �top right� Photog hy �ristol �top left�, ��
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01454 260207 weddings@eastwoodpark.co.uk www.eastwoodpark.co.uk
• Experienced wedding planner to help you plan • Champagne afternoon tea for 2 • Free menu tasting for the happy couple • Grand red carpet arrival • Chair covers and a choice of coloured sash • Wedding host as your main contact on the day • Arrival Buck's Fizz
• 3-course wedding breakfast • Glass of wine with the meal • Sparking wine to toast • Evening buffet with selection of sandwiches and 5 extra items • Overnight accommodation in the Bridal Suite for the happy couple • Anniversary meal to celebrate your 1st year of marriage
Available January - April 2018 and selected other dates in 2018 Call 01454 777 333 or email 063cs@jupiterhotels.co.uk for more information
MERCURE BRISTOL NORTH THE GRANGE | 1 OLD GLOUCESTER ROAD | NORTHWOODS | WINTERBOURNE | BRISTOL | BS36 1RP | www.mercure.com
WEST WEDDINGS | PAGE 5
FESTIVE FEELINGS CHRISTMAS Eve might be the most popular time for proposals, but you’ll still need to buy a Christmas present...
A survey of 10,000 people, conducted by event organisers ChilliSauce, shows that 31 per cent of people think that Christmas Eve is the most romantic day of the year to propose, followed by News Year’s Eve, which is preferred by 19 per cent. These figures chime with the surge in match-making businesses experienced in the months leading up to the holiday season. Psychologist and global director of elite match-making agency Berkeley International, Mairead Molloy, explains why Christmas is an important time in the dating calendar: “There is no escaping the fact that Christmas is one of the most romantic times of the year. When the temperature begins to drop into the minuses there is nothing better than spending a night in the company of someone you love. You can’t ignore that
the festive season is special. “As well as more people becoming engaged, a Facebook study revealed more new relationships appear between November and March. December 24 sees 28 per cent more new relationships than break-ups whereas December 25 sees an increase to 34 per cent.” Mairead added: “What’s fascinating is that all these figures chime with our match-making enquiries pre- and postChristmas. We see member applications rise by 55 per cent in December compared to a typical month. We then see a further rise of 65 per cent in January, which is our busiest time. A relationship should be a carefully thought-out decision. If you’re looking for something long-term then step away from the dating apps and don’t rush. “You should take time to get to know someone. You won’t be able to know someone’s true personality with a seasonal fling. If Christmas is traditional, then why not dating?”
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PROMOTION
PUT on your dancing shoes WITH all eyes on you on your big day, the last thing you want is to fall out of step. Amy Young, from A.Y. Dance, can help with that... As a professional dancer, teacher and choreographer, Amy is adept at all aspects and styles of dance, and she has performed with many different dance companies across the UK and overseas. At the age of just 18, Amy earned a Dance and Drama Award to attend the SLP College of Performing Arts in Leeds. After working hard for three years she achieved a Trinity National Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre with Distinction. As well as performing, Amy is currently teaching in dance schools, primary and secondary schools, as well as holding private dance classes. Let Amy and her team of professional dancers and choreographers from A.Y. Dance help you achieve the wedding of your dreams.
FIRST WEDDING DANCE TUITION
The first wedding dance is, for many couples, a dreaded part of the wedding day. Why not surprise your guests and learn a professionally choreographed routine to perform on your big day? You can also arrange for a group of
guests, bridesmaids, or ushers to learn a routine to a theme or song of your choice. Grab your dancing shoes and let A.Y. Dance provide your party with the latest moves and grooves.
CHILDREN’S WEDDING DANCE
Add some ‘awh’ factor to your wedding and entertain the little ones all in one with a children’s wedding dance. One of the A.Y. Dance team can come along to your reception venue and teach the children a themed dance, which they can then perform to you and your guests.
THEMED DANCE HEN PARTIES
And dancing doesn’t have to be reserved for your wedding. Why not try something different during your hen weekend and add in a themed dance party? A.Y. Dance creates fun routines taught to your group for an enjoyable and memorable experience. After warming-up with a party game, a simple fun routine is taught to the theme of your choice. Popular themes can be found amyyoung.co.uk All the hens then go home with a party bag containing a personalised shot glass, engraved with the bride’s name and the date of the hen party.
EVENT ENTERTAINMENT
A.Y. Dance can provide a professional dance team to perform at your event. Dance routines are choreographed to suit your celebration – this could be evening wedding entertainment, birthday parties, or corporate events. Get in touch with Amy Young if you would like to add that extra something to entertain your guests.
A.Y. Dance is offering a 10 per cent discount for any of its services booked before the end of February 2018. Just visit amyyoung. co.uk, fill in the contact form with details of your event, and mention West Weddings. For more information visit amyyoung. co.uk or get in touch on 07834 764719, info@amyyoung.co.uk, or Facebook.com/A.YDanceParties
AMY YOUNG AND HER TEAM OF PROFESSIONAL DANCERS & CHOREOGRAPHERS PROVIDE A RANGE OF SERVICES:
THEMED DANCE HEN PARTIES: You are taught a simple fun routine to the theme of your choice, and as a momento each hen receives a shot glass engraved with the brides name and party date FIRST WEDDING DANCE TUITION: Surprise your guests! Learn a choreographed dance routine to perform on your big day CHILDRENS WEDDING DANCE: Entertain the younger members of your wedding guests and teach the children a themed dance they can then perform to you and your guests EVENT ENTERTAINMENT: A professional dance team to perform at your wedding
10% DISCOUNT
FOR ANY SERVICES BOOKED BEFORE END FEBRUARY 2018
visit www.amyyoung.co.uk - fill in the contact form with details of your event and mention ‘West Wedding Magazine’ For further details please contact Amy on 07834 764719 / info@amyyoung.co.uk check out Facebook for 5-star reviews @A.YDanceParties www.amyyoung.co.uk
WEST WEDDINGS | PAGE 7
7 HEN PARTY IDEAS THAT WON’T GET YOU IN TROUBLE BOOZY nights out and butlers in the buff aren’t for everyone. If you’re stuck for ideas to entertain your closest girls, why not try one of these?
TAKE IT TO THE TREETOPS
There are dozens of companies across the UK that are taking advantage of our nation’s beautiful woodlands. Leap from platforms tucked up in the treetops and zipwire your way down again – adrenaline junkies will love this.
GO POTTY
making class, and feel smug that you and your girls made your meal from scratch (even if the quality is questionable). It’s usually best to leave it to the professionals… but this way is much more fun.
GET ACTIVE
White water rafting, quad biking, surfing, horse riding, hiking… the list of grouporientated activities goes on and on, and these are perfect ideas for outdoors-y types.
HEAD TO MEMORY LANE
Rustic plates and hand-crafted plant pots are all the rage right now, so it’s the perfect time to gather your hens and try out a pottery class. Just watch your maid of honour doesn’t get stuck in to a Ghoststyle moment with the teacher.
Sometimes nostalgia is all you need. If you’ve known most of your bridal party since you were toddlers, why not gather for a sleepover? Ask everyone to bring a photo album and an armful of embarrassing stories and spend the night giggling over a few bottles of red.
BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH
WALKING/SEGWAY TOUR
Afternoon tea too tame? Try a bottomless brunch. Gather your girlfriends and spend a morning drinking mimosas and eating eggs Benedict to your heart’s content.
DO IT YOURSELF
Try out a cookery class or a cocktail
If you’re using your hen party as an opportunity to visit a new city, it can be a logistical nightmare to shepherd your girls across the unfamiliar landscape. Most cities have free walking tours, or you could find a Segway tour, which are a great way to see the sights.
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Where to go when the Hens take Bristol You’ve gathered together your hens and narrowed down the Grandmother-friendly options, now where to go that’s nearby? THE West Country has always been a great home for hen parties – in fact it’s the fourth biggest destination in the country for prenuptial parties. And the activities seem to be evolving each year... From themed assault courses to naughty art classes, we sum up the best and most popular hen party activities in Bristol.
West Country Games
From the cider run to the mangold dangling, this is the West Country themed version of It’s A Knockout. Often donned in fancy dress, this is a hugely popular option as a daytime activity and was the number one selling hen do activity of 2017 in Bristol. The West Country Games is also expanding to becoming a team-building activity for offices, so be prepared to take on your boss while wearing a cow onesie.
Hell In A Cell Escape Rooms
Not for the faint of heart, this is escape rooms with a horror angle. Proving largely popular around Halloween, you will be placed in an underground prison cell alongside some truly horrific characters as you plot how to escape the dungeons. You will be given between one and one-and-a-half hours to crack all the codes, find all the hidden secrets and work on a safe route out.
Nude Life Drawing supplies and model are provided, all you A great bonding experience with a cheeky angle, get all the girls together and attempt to draw the full monty male form. It doesn’t matter whether you’re new to art or the re-born Van Gogh, the instructor will give you fun challenges throughout to keep the group laughing. All art
need is a smile.
Go Ape
If the thought of climbing high trees and crossing rope bridges doesn’t make you weak at the knees then this might be the activity for you. Located in the Forest of Dean, it won’t just involve walking through tree tops, you will also get the chance to zip wire and have a go on the Tarzan swing. This is an intense way to start a hen weekend, but the drinks afterwards will taste so much sweeter.
Afternoon Tea
A much calmer activity than the likes of Go Ape and Hell In A Cell, this activity will offer you a chance to chat to everyone involved in the hen do, while sipping on some tea and cracking into a freshly baked scone. Open from as early as 9am, this is normally a popular option to start the hen weekend as a ice breaker and can make a nice meet
up point for everyone involved.
Gin Tasting
2016 was known as the year of gin in the alcohol industry, as the drink grew hugely in popularity in the UK – with Brits spending more than a billion pounds on this tasty drink. Well this only continued in 2017 and it is showing no signs of slowing down for 2018. Gin tasting was introduced as a hen do activity in the early months of the year and it has already grown to become one of the top sellers in Bristol. This is your chance to learn some bartending tricks from the experts, all while adding some new gin discoveries to your drinking palette.
Dirty Dancing Experience
The movie celebrated its 30-year anniversary this year, but its appeal has certainly endured. Who doesn’t still dream of being lifted into the air by Patrick Swayze? Time might have moved on, but the dance moves are still a cult classic and this is a great way to learn a dance set before heading out in the evening – so you can all dance in unison. However, if Dirty Dancing really isn’t your scene, there are other options. You might also want to check out Bollywood or Burlesque dancing in Bristol.
WEST WEDDINGS | PAGE 9
PROMOTION
Time to Suit up Don’t settle for bland and generic on your wedding day, head to Suave Owl SUAVE Owl is a family-run, independent clothing retailer that provides style and quality for today’s gentleman.
The brand new store, which was established in September 2017 by Anthony Harvey and Jessica Smith, works on the principle that every man should be able to access clothing and accessories that make him look and feel his best. Speaking about the concept, Jessica – who is marrying Anthony later this year – said: “Tony is bigger than the sizes stocked in almost all shops. To make things more tricky he also was looking for something a little different, and Peaky Blinders-inspired. “After searching around the local area and scouring the internet Tony had to travel up north to get what he was after. We realised that other people across our area would be experiencing the same difficulties and so our venture began. “The name Suave Owl arose from a mix of us wanting to present a masculine sense of style and sophistication, and our son’s word of the week.“ Suave Owl flies away from the bland and generic to offer sophistication with
personality. From every day to wedding day, it has something for you – a modern twist on a classic style. The team aims to provide a personal service, whether you’re visiting the store in Keynsham, Bristol, or shopping on the soon-to-be-launched website. Suave Owl, 30 Temple Street, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 1EH For more information call 0117 9860341, email, suaveowl@outlook. com, or find them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
SUAVE OWL Is a family run, independent clothing retailer providing style and quality for today’s gentleman. Clothing and accessories to make him look and feel his best. From every day to wedding day, we have something for you. Designers include Marc Darcy, Cavani, Guide London, Paolo Vandini, RemusUomo, Knightsbridge London Suits, shoes, accessories, shirts with jeans, chinos & knitwear to come. Suits available from toddler to oversize. CUSTOMER REVIEWS: "I had compliments on the suit all day" "At last... somewhere that fills the need of the larger gentleman” “Fantastic!!” "Can’t believe the quality for the price" "Top notch"
Groom goes FREE with 5+ groomsmen! (3 piece purchases)
We aim to provide a personal service to our valued customers whether you are visiting our store in Keynsham, Bristol or shopping online via our SOON TO BE LAUNCHED website. Gift vouchers available.
30 Temple Street, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 1EH Tel. 0117 9860341 / Email: suaveowl@outlook.com
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GO GREEN FOR YOUR WEDDING
For the eco-conscious, don’t be tempted by a cheap wedding abroad. Planning a wedding in your local area is the best way to make it as green as possible THE lure of a cheap wedding abroad is often an appealing option for many couples as they start planning their big day. The average UK wedding is now said to cost more than £25,000, while the average cost of a wedding abroad is more like £7,000. But it’s not just the financial costs that are being taken into account when budgeting for the big day. As we become more eco-conscious as a society many couples are looking at the carbon cost of their weddings. With the average wedding costing between 14-62 tonnes of carbon they have traditionally been a huge contributor to carbon emissions. It can
be difficult to visualise or make sense of tonnes of carbon but to help you put it in perspective the average carbon footprint of one person for one year is 14 tonnes. The biggest contributor to the carbon footprint of any wedding will always come down to transport so thinking about the location of your wedding is key to reducing your wedding’s carbon footprint. Kate and Will’s wedding racked up a royal carbon footprint of 6,765 tonnes in flights alone thanks to nearly 2,000 international figures travelling to the UK for the occasion. Eco-venue, The Green House, in collaboration with Count on Me – a Dorset-based organisation committed to cutting carbon – to work out the carbon footprint of different wedding
destinations. All these calculations were based on 150 guests (slightly less than Kate and Will’s) staying for seven nights in the same size hotel with the same amount of CO2 emissions.
SRI LANKA – 573 TONNES
Sri Lanka is a wedding destination hotspot but unless you’re from Sri Lanka this option is going to turn your carbon footprint into a carbon stomp thanks to the long-haul flights.
ITALY – 135 TONNES The most romantic country in the world may seem like the perfect wedding destination but it works out to be the equivalent of nine years’ worth of your
Celebrate your wedding in luxury and opulence at this 500-year-old castle, once enjoyed by King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. Offering intimate packages from £4,000, to exclusive use of the whole hotel; Thornbury Castle is the perfect location for your unique wedding. Civil ceremony licenses in �ve di��erent areas 2� uni�ue bedchambers, most �eaturing �replaces, tapestries and �our poster beds �ward winning cuisine �rom our �� �estaurant Tudor gardens, vineyard and on-site helipad �ption to hire a mar�uee �or larger weddings Please contact our dedicated Wedding Coordinator to arrange a personal viewing and to organise your bespoke package.
Call 01454 281182 | www.thornburycastle.co.uk Email events@thornburycastle.co.uk
WEST WEDDINGS | PAGE 11
UK - 7 TONNES
A wedding on home turf dramatically cuts the carbon cost to just six months’ worth of carbon emissions. This is based on zero flights being taken and only 10 people staying at a hotel with the addition of car journeys. If spending six months’ worth of carbon on one day is still not sitting well on your green conscious there is another option, you can choose a ‘green’ wedding. A green wedding doesn’t need to compromise on luxury, style or quality and as they increase in popularity, more and more options are now available.
TIPS:
Choose a carbon-friendly wedding venue such as The Green House Hotel in Dorset. The Green House is entirely selfsufficient and carbon neutral generating its own electricity on site and producing energy from solar panels. This brings your carbon footprint down drastically as
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you’re not using fossil fuels to heat or run your wedding venue. Recycle 100 per cent of your waste or choose a venue that can do this for you. The average wedding can generate up to half a tonne of rubbish so recycling this will make a huge difference to your wedding’s impact on the environment. Food air miles are as big a deal as human air miles. If you’re eating steak from Argentina and drinking wine from New Zealand, your carbon footprint won’t thank you for it. Try and keep your food as local as possible and if you want to go the extra non-carbon mile opt for organic or even vegan menus. Flower air miles are the same – around 90 per cent of cut flowers are imported into the UK – if you can source these locally and even better, if they are organic blooms, then you’ll lessen your impact on the environment. Start as you mean to go on with recycled invites, making a conscious consumer decision on these will lower your carbon footprint and set the tone for your green wedding.
IF YOU’RE EATING STEAK FROM ARGENTINA AND DRINKING WINE FROM NEW ZEALAND, YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT WON’T THANK YOU FOR IT
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own personal carbon footprint (thinking about nine years’ worth of car journeys, holidays, fuel bills and waste hurts our brains).
Join us for our 2018 Wedding Weekend 3rd & 4th March 22nd & 23rd September 9am - 4pm on all dates Free admission Interactive workshops hosted by preferred suppliers rooms set - bedroom showarounds available Alternatively, why not book a Champagne Showaround! Our wedding Specialist is available until 7.30pm every Thursday - Saturday.
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CONFECTION PERFECTION
But what do wedding cakes look like in 2018?
OMBRE CAKES
Not just for hair, the ombre trend is one that is here to stay. Pick your colour scheme and run with it. These multi-tier cakes start off rich and vibrant and fade up, layer by layer, to a gorgeous pastel hue.
LACE CAKES
A step back towards tradition, these neutral cakes are adorned with intricate white lace fondant appliques. They’re understatedly luxurious and are a great choice for a glamorous ‘do.
RUSTIC CAKES
Take a simple ivory cake with buttercream icing, place it atop a (thoroughly cleaned) wooden log, and adorn it with fresh flowers and leaves.
Et voila, you have yourself one whimsical wedding cake. Just remember to take the flowers off before you serve it up.
NAKED CAKES
These cakes leave nothing to the imagination, so you’ll want a baker who knows their stuff. Devoid of fussy frosting, these masterpieces expose every layer of your bake. Opt for naturally colourful fillings – seasonal fruits in your sponge and rich fillings in-between.
…NOT CAKE CAKES
If you don’t have a sweet tooth, you’re a) in the vast minority, but b) going to love the idea of a cheese cake. Tiers of
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IN THE HEIGHT OF SUMMER, HIRING AN ICE CREAM TRUCK IS ALSO A GREAT IDEA
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THE vows are done, the confetti’s been thrown, you’ve survived the speeches, and the first dance has been danced. Before you all hit the bar too hard, there’s one thing left to take care of – cutting the cake.
cheddar, Wensleydale, Brie, and Stilton, topped with grapes and surrounded by crackers. In the height of summer, hiring an ice cream truck is also a great idea. It will cool your guests down but also gives them the chance to make their own choices. One of the more popular options is a pic’n’mix table, where guests can regress to their younger years and fill up a paper bag with foam shrimps, flying saucers, and dolly mix. We also love doughnut walls, which are, yeah, walls made of doughnuts. It looks a bit like the weights rack in a gym when it’s assembled, but you can mix and match frostings to make patterns or even spell out your initials.
PROMOTION
WEST WEDDINGS | PAGE 13
WEDDING GOWNS:
ELLIE ROSE TO celebrate its first birthday, Ellie Rose Bridal will be launching its new collection – Tara Keely by Lazaro – and offering an incredible 10 per cent off trunk show orders.
On November 25 and 26, Ellie Rose Bridal will host the Tara Keely Trunk Show. Stop by to view these gorgeous designs in person and to bag yourself the exclusive discount. The full collection will be unveiled next year, so this is the perfect chance for a sneak-peek of the dresses... Ellie Rose Bridal 7 Margaret’s Buildings Bath, BA1 2LP 01225 443 988 info@ellierosebridal.co.uk ellierosebridal.co.uk
Clockwise from main: 2704 131, 2761 0143, 2751 0035, 2757 0016,
PAGE 14 | WEST WEDDINGS
Make up tips FROM THE EXPERT Celebrity make up artist Carly Hobbs on the best bridal beauty looks
A STRONG red lip and vintage eye flick, or an on-trend contour effect? A brave pop of colour on the 'lids or a natural nude glow? Do-it-yourself at home or fork out for a professional's touch?
We spoke to Carly Hobbs, celebrity make up artist and author of Supermodel Tips, to get some essential guidance for brides-to-be, whatever you've got in store for your face. “The key bridal trend at the moment is fresh, natural skin with a dewy finish, flirty lashes, defined eyes and a nude lip,” she said. However, it's important not to be steered too firmly by what you're seeing all over Pinterest. “Trends are important but what is more so is going for a look that suits you. I think all brides should aim to look like the prettiest versions of themselves; if you're not a smoky eye regular, the big day is not the time to try it. However if you always rock a statement lip, it would feel and look strange not to rock it.
“Brides always show me celebrity inspiration pics but I also ask to see images from their own Facebook or Instagram - the pictures they put out there that they love. I think that is the best starting point.” A common mistake with wedding make up is to panic about the amount of time it has to last for, and pile on twice as much as you normally would. Carly said: “Less is more, think careful layers of the right products. These stay in place all day and let the skin breathe. Cakey, thick make-up will look awful in pics and can make the bride feel uncomfortable and unsure on the biggest day of her life.” Carly's advice if you're doing your own make up begins with the base. “You need a four-step approach to your base. First use a fixing spray to give all your make-up something to hold on to, then a primer to even out skin tone, and finally a beautiful foundation. Add each product with a stiff brush, then buff in with a fluffier one. Use a little product then only add more where needed - you'll be surprised how far it
goes when you use brushes. Finally, tap concealer into place. “Finally you need to pick out colours for eyes, cheeks, contour, highlights and lips - opt for rose golds, bronzes, browns and shimmery coppers, so flattering for all skin tones. “For all these areas opt for a cream based product first and then finish with a powder to set it all in place. Once you're happy with everything, dust over a translucent powder to seal the deal.” No matter how good you are with your primer, there's no guarantee that everything will stay in place all day. “When it comes to touch ups, ensure
that one bridesmaid packs a bag with these items inside: cotton buds to swipe away any tear smudges and to buff out eyeshadow; concealer; face mist; lipstick and cheek two-in-one; powder; deodorant, and perfume.” Finally, if you really can't afford a quality make up artist, you're better off learning to do your own than risk an inexperienced hand. You know your face better than anyone else, after all. Carly's top tip? “You can pop to your favourite makeup counter for help, advice and to learn new tricks. Bobbi Brown, Benefit and Charlotte Tilbury offer fab services specifically designed for brides, with costs redeemable against purchases.”
WEST WEDDINGS | PAGE 15
Location, location ARLETA and Ashley met on the dating site eHarmony in 2012 and five years later, in September 2017, they were married under the stars of the Planetarium. Here, she explains why...
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THAT VENUE?
We chose the Bristol Planetarium because we wanted a ceremony that offered something different, something quite quirky rather than traditional. What made it even better was the team – they were so great, I can’t praise them enough. Nothing was too much trouble. Kate Humphrey was the lead and she went above and beyond to make sure that the whole day ran smoothly, we didn’t have to worry about a single thing! They let us design a bespoke ceremony, such as the colour of the changing lights. And we had personal photos displayed as
the guests entered, along with music of our choice.
WHAT MADE IT UNIQUE?
The Planetarium is a dome, with theatrestyle seats for the guests. Just before I walked up the aisle we had the night sky projected on the ceiling. Then, later on, there was an incredible space show for everyone to watch – with the solar system and planets. We were looking for something more relaxed, as we’re not that formal. When we first visited and the team showed me what they could do – I cried. I knew then that it was the place we were going to get married in.
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVOURITE MOMENT?
It’s really hard to pick just one. But it had to be the moment I walked down the aisle and saw Ashley for the first time – that was the best.
Sometimes it's all about the venue. For Bristol residents Arleta Andreasik-Paton, 31, and Ashley Paton, 29, the Bristol Planetarium ensured their recent wedding ceremony was out of this world.
PAGE 16 | WEST WEDDINGS
MAKE YOUR BIG DAY A GOOD HAIR DAY
Joe Hemmings heads up the award-winning Bloggs Salons in Bristol. We asked him to share his expert tips to ensure your wedding day is a good hair day…
The most beautiful hair is healthy hair, and you can start to plan your bridal look as soon as you’ve got a ring on your finger.
Your stylist can plan out a schedule of appointments right up to your wedding day to incorporate trims, treatments (to get hair in great condition), and colour so that your hair is exactly how you want it on the day. If you’re thinking about doing something different, it’s better to try it earlier. For example, if you think you want to have long hair, your hairdresser can tell you if realistically it’ll grow to the length you want by your wedding date. You might want to try extensions, but this is definitely something to do sooner rather than later in case you decide you preferred your hair shorter – this is the last thing you want to be experimenting with right before the big day!
no saving the hair and you’ll lose more length this way, or risk ends that look dry and flyaway. Always have a hair trial if you’re using a hairdresser. You can help to communicate your vision by bringing photos of styles you like, such as any accessories or veil
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to get some bespoke advice. In terms of styles, the classics will always be around. Hair trends can really date your wedding pictures as the years go on, so most brides opt for something timeless. Chignons, half up and curls will always be bridal favourites but flower
ADDING HAIR PIECES OR WEFTS CAN HELP PAD OUT YOUR HAIR IF YOU FEEL IT NEEDS TO BE FULLER, BUT THIS IS SOMETHING YOU NEED TO HAVE TRIED BEFORE HAND.
Don’t be tempted to skimp on trims either you might like to wear, a photo of your dress – the neckline can make a difference – once split ends start to form there’s to hair, for example, a high neckline can look better with hair up, while strapless can look better with a few curls or something around the shoulders. Arrive for your trial with clean, dry hair. This gives the stylist more time to play around with different styles. Book a hair trial for the same day as your dress fitting if possible, as you’ll have a clearer idea of how it’s all going to look on the day. Take photos once your hair is finished, that way you and the stylist have a record of what was done. If anything doesn’t work it’s then easier to identify. On the day, prepping hair properly is so important. Using the right product from wet hair right through to finish will have a massive impact on how long your hair is going to last. For example, prepping the hair with something like L’Oreal Pli, saturating each section and blow drying it into the hair will ensure your hair will last longer than applying a can of hairspray at the end. It’s worth noting that some hairsprays and mousses can contain a lot of alcohol which dries the hair out. Adding hair pieces or wefts can help pad out your hair if you feel it needs to be fuller, but this is something you need to have tried before hand. Even if you’re doing your own wedding hair, it’s worth booking a consultation at a salon
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WEDDINGS are so exciting, but they can come with so much pressure can’t they?! With Instagram and Pinterest showing us perfection in all forms, from the cake to the venue, brides can feel they need to pull out all the stops when it comes to bridal hair. In fact, the best bridal hair isn’t too far away from how you wear your hair every day. Think about it, if your partner has never seen you with you hair up or down, your wedding day is probably not the best day to try it. You still want to look like you...
crowns are growing in popularity thanks to festival-themed weddings, and they look really beautiful. Headbands are another great accessory, really simple and effective and easier than wearing a veil, though of course the veil will always be the classic wedding hair accessory. The most important thing is to enjoy every minute of your wedding, and your hair shouldn’t give you anything to worry about if you plan ahead, get your hair into great condition and stick to your chosen look on the day.
WEDDING HAIR CHECKLIST:
• Think about your dress neckline. • Is the venue mostly outside or in – temperature and weather may affect which style will work best. • How do you wear your hair on a daily basis – you still want to look like you. • Where will you have your hair done on the day – at a salon or at home/your venue? • Book your chosen stylist in advance, and think about the wedding party, will you have your hair done together? Bloggs Salons, 288 Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8PD. Plaza unit, Millennium Promenade, Bristol, BS1 5SY. Call 0117 924 4006 or visit bloggssalons.com
WEST WEDDINGS | PAGE 17
Hair dos for I do ARE you a boho bride wanting a textured style you can tuck Gypsophila into? Or are you going for all-out glam, with glossy bouncing tresses?
KNOTTED CHIGNON
Whichever bride you are, you’re sure to love these looks, created by Regis. Creative director Kieron Fowles talks us through the how-tos.
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HOLLYWOOD WAVE STEP 1: Start by applying Sebastian Shaper Zero Gravity (£16.50, ShopRegis. com) to wet hair to create a solid foundation and shine before blow drying.
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STEP 1: Start by applying label.m Create Volume Mousse (£12.95, ShopRegis.com) to wet hair to create a solid foundation and shine before blow drying STEP 4: Repeat the process, working from the front to the back of the head, tonging four inch sections toward the face and securing with pins
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STEP 2: Use a ghd Curve Creative Curl Wand (£120, ShopRegis.com) to tong through the hair before brushing out with a paddle brush to create texture.
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STEP 5: Split the hair into two sections, then cross one over the other and bring underneath to create a knot.
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STEP 2: Create a deep side parting in line with the inside corner of the eyebrow and clip hair in place STEP 5: Repeat the process on the reverse side of the hair, working from the front to the back
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STEP 3: Take a diagonal section from the front of the head around an inch from the hairline then, using a ghd Curve Creative Curl Wand (£120, ShopRegis.com), wrap the hair around the barrel of the tong towards the face, hold for 5-8 seconds and release, securing the curl with a clip
STEP 6: Remove the clips from the hair and spritz label.m Complete Shine Mist (£13.50, ShopRegis.com) through the hair before brushing out with a paddle brush
STEP 3: Create an irregular side parting in the hair.
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STEP 4: Pull the hair away from the face, using fingers to create texture and leaving softer strands to fall around the face.
STEP 6: Repeat the step, adding a second knot and secure with elastic.
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STEP 7: Take the knot and roll the hair under, pinning into place to create a chignon.
PAGE 18
‘Tis the season to pamper yourself GLOSS FINISHING SPRAY
You’ve had your makeup done, and your bridal hair twisted and turned into your desired style. Now all that’s left is to give it a quick spray with this gloss finishing spray to stay glam all day long... £3.50 Sainsbury’s stores
DRY OIL BODY POLISH
Joan Collins certainly knows her beauty. And her new collection promises the kind of soft, smooth skin you need to squeeze into your wedding dress. Use this polish to rejuvenate and add a youthful glow on the big day. £18 joancollinsbeauty.com
DEFENSIL RESCUE SERUM
Don’t let dry and chapped hands ruin that special moment when your wedding ring is carefully placed on your finger. To keep them soft and looking smooth, use a moisturising balm such as Defensil Rescue Serum. £9.95 skinshop.co.uk
MALKI DEAD SEA BATH SALTS
SMOOTHING HAIR TREATMENT OIL With all eyes on you and countless photos, you’ll want to banish those winter split ends. In the run up to your big day, restore some moisture with Natural World’s Smoothing Therapy Hair Treatment Oil. £2.95 Amazon, Natural World
Tensions are bound to be running high in the week before the wedding, what with catering decisions and floral arrangements. Relax in the tub with these aromatherapy bath salts with frankincense oil and rose petals. £6.85 boots.com
ESSIE HOLIDAY COLLECTION
With a whole host of colour options to choose from, you’re guaranteed festive nails on your big day. And the gel-style polish is sure to stay put no matter how many guests you greet. Stay seasonally on trend with the Essie Holiday Collection £9.99 each boots.com
PAGE 19
With the temperatures dropping it’s even harder to keep your skin soft and hair glossy ahead of your big day. Check out these products to give yourself a bit of festive sparkle... SKIMONO SHEET MASKS These sheet masks, with natural ingredients, are super hydrating and perfect for winter. They fit like a second skin and transport nutrients within the serums deeper into the skin, improving the complexion and resulting in skin that is visibly fresher, smoother and delicate. £14.99 each skimono.myshopify.com
NIVEA IRRESISTIBLY SMOOTH
HYALURONIC COMPLEX
These supplements are ideal to take in the run up to a wedding due to the potent anti-ageing ingredients – ensuring perfect skin on the big day. They’re also super hydrating and nourish from the inside-out. £30 for 60 capsules Harvey Nichols
SEBAMED BALM
For soft, well-groomed hands and nails, try sebamed Hand and Nail Balm. The highly effective moisturiser provides silky soft skin, prevents irritation and supports the regeneration of rough skin. £5.29 sebamed.co.uk
Nivea has revamped its Body Essentials range with an intensive new Deep Moisture Serum, which actively soothes, softens and moisturises skin. Hydration is locked in for 48 hours, leaving your skin feeling soft, supple and well-cared for. (Available January 2018) £5.99 boots.com
BLOOM & GLOW
Make sure your skin is in tip-top condition before you start applying that wedding day makeup. In this face oil, chia seed and sea buckthorn are blended together to deliver high levels of essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants, which together improve skin’s elasticity, calm inflammation and restore radiance. £20.50 angelalangford.com
SKIN DOCTORS
Pure Vitamin A (Retinol) is the youth-boosting ingredient in Skin Doctors Potent Vit. A Night Ampoules. Microsponge slow-release technology will gently transport the retinol deep into the skin while you sleep. With nightly use, you should soon be waking up with a visibly brighter, smoother complexion. £39.99 skindoctors.co.uk
PAGE 20 | WEST WEDDINGS
finishing touches The devil is in the details: grooms, choose your accessories wisely
PAUL SMITH RAYMOND BLACK GLOSSED LEATHER LOAFERS
S.T. DUPONT PALLADIUMPLATED BAR CUFFLINKS £159.00 Harvey Nichols
£245.00 Harvey Nichols
UNKNOWN WATCHES - THE DANDY GOLD TONE WATCH £85.00 Harvey Nichols
BROWN LEATHER AND STAINLESS STEEL MEN’S BRACELET £55 beaverbrooks.co.uk
TOLD & CO TC19 WATCH £160 toldandco.com
MAGNANNI TOECAP OXFORD SHOES £250 Selfridges
CARBON FIBRE CUFFLINKS £40 beaverbrooks.co.uk
TATEOSSIAN STERLING SILVER WOVEN BANGLE
ETON TWOTONE FLORALJACQUARD SILK TIE £75.00 Harvey Nichols
£245 Selfridges
SWEENEY TATTOO
Oliver Sweeney’s Sweeney Tattoo personalisation service allows you to complete any tan leather shoe or belt with a design of exactly your choice. Using a real tattoo gun and ink, the service is extremely popular with groomsmen looking to celebrate their big day. Initials and dates being some of the best choices for the groom and best man.
ETON NAVY POLKA-DOT SILK POCKET SQUARE £40.00 Harvey Nichols
POLO RALPH LAUREN REVERSIBLE LEATHER BELT £59 Selfridges
WEST WEDDINGS | PAGE 21
Grooming tips for
grooms
Facial fuzz experts The Bluebeards Revenge give us five tips for your wedding day shave
THE day of a wedding is just as nerve-racking and stressful for the groom as it is for the bride; there are the pre-wedding jitters to contend with, followed by hours of meeting and greeting guests without embarrassing yourself or telling inappropriate stories. If you make it through this, then there’s eating without slopping soup all over your shirt, the first dance, and acting relatively sober in front of the in-laws – it’s difficult! While The Bluebeards Revenge can’t help you with your table manners or dancing feet, they can help to eliminate one potentially stressful encounter – an uneven shave. Looking your best come wedding day is a necessity; the photos, the constant attention, and the better half’s expectations all have to be considered. So, here are five simple tips that will remove any chance of you suffering from a bristly jawline.
SHAVE THE TRADITIONAL WAY:
Supermarket shaving solutions in a tin and cartridge razors might be less time consuming, but you’re guaranteed a better shave if you’re brave enough to venture down the more traditional path. The Bluebeards Revenge’s classic shaving cream features a revolutionary ingredient called Decelerine, which is designed to slow down the regrowth of beard hair while simultaneously nourishing and moisturising the skin. Combine this with a shaving brush when lathering and you can expect a seriously close, comfortable shave. A shaving brush helps to remove deep dirt by exfoliating the skin, whilst also lifting the hairs to allow for a closer pass with your razor. It’s also worth considering swapping to a doubleedged safety razor instead of a Mach 3. Although safety razors can look a little intimidating, they are in fact very easy to
handle. These razors fit a double-edged razor blade that’s much cheaper to replace than a cartridge, meaning you’ll save money too! They do require a little more respect though, which will slow your shave down and result in a cleaner, closer shave with less nicks and cuts.
USE A FRESH RAZOR BLADE:
For the ultimate close shave before your wedding day, make sure to use a shiny new razor blade. Blades usually last between four and five shaves, but with each pass they start to lose their edge. To maintain the sharpness of your blade for longer, make sure to rinse the blade regularly during your shave, dry it thoroughly afterwards, and store it in a dry place.
INCLUDE A SECOND PASS:
For some men, shaving with just one pass in the morning is not enough, so take the time to apply a second lather to your chops. The second pass will feel much smoother and push stubborn stubble back for longer. During the second pass, pay close attention to problem areas such as the neck that are often difficult to get a really close finish on. Make sure you still follow the grain to avoid razor rash too.
USE A POST-SHAVE BALM:
Possibly one of the most important steps in preventing an ugly, irritating shave comes after you put down your razor. Make sure you apply a generous layer of post-shave balm to your face; you’ve just dragged a sharp blade across your skin, it is inevitably going to be feeling a little sore. A high-quality post-shave balm will help to soothe, rehydrate, and remove impurities from deep inside the skin’s pores leaving your face with a radiant glow when it comes to cutting the cake.
MOISTURISE:
Moisturising is now a perfectly acceptable grooming routine for men. It should be applied to the face in small dabs before being rubbed in to the skin. Avoid rubbing moisturiser to the edges of your face too, as this can lead to greasy build-ups along the hairline. Regularly moisturising will keep your skin supple and free of imperfections. And there you have it. Now you can enjoy your wedding day safe in the knowledge that your shaven face looks impeccable.
PAGE 22 | WEST WEDDINGS
FOR RICHER, FOR POORER,
IN SICKNESS AND IN WEALTH We look at ten top tips to help your wedding budget go further
To help keep track of your spending from the start, it’s worth trying out a money management app like Moneyhub. Through one log-in, you can see a continuously up-to-date balance of your debit card, credit cards and savings all in one place. You can create transaction categories for your wedding spending, such as ‘venue hire’ and ‘flowers’, allowing you to work out if you really can afford those seat covers or not. Moneyhub, a money management app, has the following advice around how couples can make their budget go
DOUBLE TROUBLE
further:
NEGOTIATE
Don’t be afraid to haggle with suppliers on quotes. If you’re in the fortunate position to do so, offer to pay the lion’s share of a large payment upfront in return for a reduction on the overall price.
BUY SOME TIME
Never feel forced to commit to something on the spot by persuasive
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If your partner is also spending from the same pot, make sure they always have a clear view on your current balance. You can’t spend the same money twice!
CREATE A STASH FOR WPBS (WEDDING PLANNING BOMBSHELLS)
“How much?” Set aside five per cent of your budget for when unexpected
IF YOUR PARTNER IS ALSO SPENDING FROM THE SAME POT, MAKE SURE THEY ALWAYS HAVE A CLEAR VIEW ON YOUR CURRENT BALANCE. YOU CAN’T SPEND THE SAME MONEY TWICE!
sales people. Can you get the same product at a better price elsewhere?
MAKE FRIENDS WITH YOUR FINANCES
Dedicate ten minutes every week to your finances to ensure everything has been accounted for, particularly if cash payments are made.
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APART from the bride, the other big ‘b’ word when it comes to planning your wedding is ‘budget’. You can’t avoid it whether you’re having a small or a large do, at home or abroad. From the day you say ‘yes’, you’re suddenly dealing with deposits, installments, down payments and transfers flying out from your savings, current account, joint account and credit cards. No wonder so many wedding budgets spiral out of control.
payment bombshells land.
CASH IN ON YOUR TALENTS
There’s a YouTube tutorial on everything now so if you have creative family and friends who don’t mind helping, why not make your bouquet, buttonholes and wedding cake? Remember though, practice makes perfect.
DON’T SCRIMP ON YOUR MEMORIES
If you have a photographer friend you trust to take your pictures, excellent. But otherwise it’s worth paying for a photographer whose style you like and has the testimonials to warrant their price.
THE FOOD OF LOVE
Don’t feel pressurised to follow tradition with an expensive three course wedding breakfast. Love Asian food? Have it on your wedding day! It will likely work out cheaper for your venue to cook a tasty curry too.
BYOB
Can you source your own booze? Bulk buying your bubbles will help balance out corkage costs. Supermarket promotions may vary online and in-store, so keep an eye on both.
AFTER THE WEDDING
The spending doesn’t stop immediately but you can pace yourself. Changing your passport name costs £72.50, however wait until it needs renewing before doing this. Just remember to book airline flights under the same name as your passport or you might not be able to fly.
WEST WEDDINGS | PAGE 23
BUDGET FOR THE BIG DAY Many of us will attend a wedding this summer but you could find yourself saying, “I do” to a big bill
For many guests, the outgoings can start way before the big day itself, with the typical cost of attending a stag or a hen do coming to £58, according to a survey from American Express. Choosing the perfect gift for the happy couple costs £102 on average. A new outfit will come to £75, while topping it off with hair and beauty treatments costs another £28. Guests typically spend £94 travelling to a wedding and £74 on a hotel, while a further £48 is spent on average toasting the bride and groom. This brings the total cost for a wedding guest to £479 on average, according to the findings. If you're lucky enough to be asked to be a bridesmaid, you can expect to spend £1,267, while an usher can expect to pay £1,127. In a bid to fund the cost of attending a wedding, 44 per cent of guests plan to dip into their monthly salary, 26 per cent will use their savings, while a further 22 per cent expect to put their wedding costs on a credit card. So if you're planning to attend
a wedding this summer, how can you keep the costs down and enjoy the big day without worrying about how it will affect your bank balance?
Here are some tips:
• Personal touch. If your gift budget is limited, consider giving a present that has a personal touch. Video compilations or framed photo montages can be very meaningful. If you're creative, offer to make or design the wedding stationery for the happy couple as your gift to them. • Plan ahead. When gift lists are sent to guests, ensure you're one of the earlier purchasers. For those using registers, getting in early can mean picking and choosing reasonable gifts that suit your budget, as opposed to being left at the end of the queue with only the higher budget items to choose from.
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• Don't forget points make presents - check how many rewards points you have on your credit, charge or store card. You may have enough to get a wedding gift with your points, which means you can give a gift without spending a penny. • Get renting. It's always fun to have something new to wear for a wedding, but this can get expensive. Consider hiring a dress or suit for the weekend. Plenty of companies now offer designer dresses and suits that can be rented at a fraction of the price. • Use your tech. If you only need a ride from the station to the reception, consider using taxi apps instead of hiring a car. Don't forget to cut costs by car sharing with other wedding guests. • If you do spend, do it wisely. Take advantage of vouchers and discounts.
CONSIDER HIRING A DRESS OR SUIT FOR THE WEEKEND. PLENTY OF COMPANIES NOW OFFER DESIGNER DRESSES AND SUITS THAT CAN BE RENTED AT A FRACTION OF THE PRICE.
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THE cost of the big day can soon add up. Guests can expect to pay nearly £500, while bridesmaids and ushers can find themselves spending more than £1,000, according to research amongst 2,000 people.
PAGE 24 | WEST WEDDINGS VENUES
ALDWICK COURT FARM & VINEYARD Aldwick Court Farm, Redhill, Bristol, BS40 5RF T: 01934 864 404 E: info@aldwickcourtfarm.co.uk W: www.aldwickcourtfarm.co.uk CAPACITY: Exclusive use of the venue means we are able to accommodate up to 150 guests for a civil ceremony and wedding breakfast. Evening Receptions can be held for a maximum of 220 guests. FACILITIES: An exquisite English vineyard, overlooked by the Mendip Hills and set amidst beautiful countryside, Aldwick Court Farm & Vineyard is a charming wedding venue in the heart of rural North Somerset. Home to Aldwick Wines, the venue, in all its splendour, is exclusive and secluded, boasting two beautiful stone barns licensed for Civil Marriage Ceremonies. A delightful and alluring setting, it is as stunning inside as it is outside, with the New Barn offering
Aztec West, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4TS T: 01454 201090 E: laurenmanning@ aztechotelbristol.co.uk W: www.aztechotelbristol.com CAPACITY: The venue is capable of holding up to 150 guests for your wedding breakfast and 250 guests for an evening reception.
Photo: Daniel Sprackman Photography exposed timber beams, an oak-floored reception area, atmospheric brickedwalled bar and panoramic views of the countryside. With Aldwick’s dedicated team always on hand to extend attentive, friendly support, couples can rest assured that their big day will exceed expectations.
BRISTOL HARBOUR HOTEL & SPA Photo: Andrew Limb Photography
49-55 Corn St, Bristol, BS1 1HT T: 0117 203 4445 E: bristol.events@harbourhotels. co.uk W: www.harbourhotels.co.uk CAPACITY: The venue can host a wedding breakfast of up to 300, ceremony style up to 350, and an
evening reception for up to 400 guests. FACILITIES: There is nowhere more romantic to tie the knot than our beautiful Bristol Harbour Hotel. Set in the heart of the city and rich in history, two of Bristol’s architecturally stunning former banks have been transformed into a luxury new hotel. With exceptionally restored interiors, offering an abundance of character, our hotel offers the perfect setting for you to take your vows. Boasting a striking grand banking hall, the hotel features one of Bristol’s most impressive events spaces – complete with remarkable historical detail and a magnificent sky light. Seating up to 300 guests, the stunning Sansovino room will provide a spectacular backdrop and space to host your wedding in the city of Bristol. Whichever wedding package you choose, we promise to make your special day an unforgettable one for you and your guests.
EASTWOOD PARK COUNTRY HOUSE
Falfield, Gloucestershire, GL12 8DA T: 01454 262805 E: weddings@eastwoodpark.co.uk W: www.eastwoodpark.co.uk CAPACITY: Wedding breakfast of 110,
AZTEC HOTEL & SPA
with receptions of 180 (more with a marquee). FACILITIES: Magnificent country house within 200-acre private estate with valley views and 69 bedrooms. Licensed for civil weddings and partnerships. Available exclusively.
FACILITIES: At the Aztec Hotel & Spa, we’re proud of our four-star approach to everything we do and we’re confident you won’t find a warmer reception anywhere in the south west. Whether you’re planning a large formal wedding, something a little more intimate, or are having a wedding celebration party, we have uniquely-tailored spaces to suit all needs. With an individual approach to every wedding, award-winning dining, bespoke packages and a dedicated team, you can be sure your day will be everything you dreamed of.
THE GABLES HOTEL
Bristol Road, Falfield, Gloucestershire GL12 8DL T: 01454 260502 E: weddings@thegablesbristol. co.uk W: www.thegablesbristol.co.uk CAPACITY: Up to 150 guests for ceremonies and receptions, up to 200 guests for evening receptions.
FACILITIES: Set in a rural location and convenient for local churches, The Gables offers a delightful setting for wedding receptions, civil ceremonies and partnerships. As a privately owned hotel we offer friendly and flexible service and we will tailor-make your wedding to ensure your perfect day – so you can relax and enjoy the company of your guests while we take care of the rest.
TYTHE BARN AT PRISTON MILL
Priston Mill, Bath, BA2 9EQ T: 01225 423894 E: info@pristonmill.co.uk W: www.pristonmill.co.uk CAPACITY: The venue is capable of hosting ceremonies and receptions for up to 150 guests and 200 guests in the evening.
FACILITIES: The stone-walled 18th century Tythe Barn has a high vaulted roof with exposed timbers and is perfect for wedding ceremonies and receptions. To one side of the barn there is a bar, well-stocked with local brews, and on the mezzanine a comfy seating area. Use the adjoining lounge, with its wood burner, for reception drinks and relaxing in.
WEST WEDDINGS VENUES | PAGE 25
OWLPEN MANOR
Owlpen Manor, near Dursley, Gloucestershire, GL11 5BZ T: 01453 860 261 E: sales@owlpen.com W: www.owlpen.com CAPACITY: The venue hosts wedding breakfasts for 30 to 180 guests, and receptions for up to 250 people. Accommodation for 40 people on the estate.
TRACY PARK
FACILITIES: Set in a private valley, the medieval manor house at Owlpen is described as one of the jewels of the Cotswolds. We offer weddings in our oak-framed Cyder House restaurant and in the landscaped gardens, as well as civil ceremonies in the manor house. The 200-acre estate also has nine beautiful holiday cottages sleeping up to 40, allowing you to enjoy exclusive use of the estate throughout your stay.
BOWOOD HOTEL
Bath Road, Wick, BS30 5RN T: 01179371800 E: weddings@tracypark.co.uk W: www.tracypark.co.uk CAPACITY: With several rooms licensed to hold civil ceremonies, we can offer ceremonies for between two and 100 guests and are able to cater for up to 160 guests in the evening. FACILITIES: Set in 240 acres of mature
parkland, Tracy Park is one of the most beautiful wedding venues in the Bath and Bristol area. This 17th century Jacobean Manor House boasts a magnificent façade, which makes for a stunning backdrop for your wedding photographs. The venue also has 42 recently refurbished en-suite bedrooms – offering the perfect accommodation for you and all your guests for the duration of your special day.
WATERMILL AT PRISTON MILL CAPACITY: The Kerry Suite at the Bowood Hotel, in Wiltshire, can hold up to 120 guests for a ceremony and 160 for a wedding breakfast, but the space is extremely versatile and can be arranged to accommodate smaller weddings too. FACILITIES: Set in the beautiful 2,000acre Bowood estate, in the heart of the Wiltshire countryside yet just minutes from the rest of civilisation, Bowood Hotel offers the complete package as a wedding venue – from the ceremony itself to the evening reception for up to 250 guests. And since it’s also a boutique hotel, it offers the most gorgeous accommodation for you and your guests to stay in.
Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 9PQ T: 01249 822228 E: weddings@bowood.org W: www.bowood.org/weddings
And if you’re looking for a little extra, there is also a gorgeous spa to indulge in before the wedding, and an exclusive four-bedroom lodge – called the Queenwood lodge – that’s ideal for the bride and bridesmaids to stay in the night before.
THE KINGSCOTE BARN
Priston Mill, Bath, BA2 9EQ T: 01225 423894 E: info@pristonmill.co.uk W: www.pristonmill.co.uk CAPACITY: The venue holds ceremonies and receptions for up to 90 guests and 130 in the evening. FACILITIES: The picturesque gardens of the Watermill make a beautiful setting
for drinks receptions and outdoor ceremonies. Inside there’s a rustic charm with themed lighting, hessian hangings and an old iron waterwheel rumbling in the background – as it has done for centuries. You’ll also find cosy contemporary furnishings, a snug yet smart bar and a large airy room with wooden beams and stone arches that’s perfect for indoor ceremonies and receptions.
DO PEOPLE KNOW YOU’RE A LICENSED VENUE? WEST
to advertise your venue in the next issue of
Binley Farm, Kingscote, Tetbury, GL8 8YE T: 01453 861161 E: info@kingscotebarn.co.uk W: www.kingscotebarn.co.uk CAPACITY: Ceremonies and receptions
for up to 150 guests, 200 in the evening. FACILITIES: This Cotswold stone barn has been fully restored, nestled in a valley. The neutral décor allows you to add your own style. Exposed beams and soft lighting add to the romantic ambiance. On-site accommodation.
weddings
call Jacqui Lewis on
0117 934 3136
PAGE 26 | WEST WEDDINGS
The essential wedding guide
Use this page to plan your budget and organise the big day - without the stress of last-minute panics 1 YEAR TO GO Decide on the date Set your budget Make an appointment to see the minister if you are marrying in a church, or the registrar if you’re having a civil marriage Make a list of the guests Book the florist and the photographer Book the wedding reception and transport Start looking for your dress Decide on the best man, bridesmaids and the ushers Confirm all bookings in writing
6 MONTHS TO GO Order the wedding stationery Send out the invitations Arrange the first fitting for your wedding dress Pick the bride’s wedding shoes and accessories Choose outfits for the groom, best man, bridesmaids, fathers, mothers and ushers Organise rings for the bride and groom Look for a band or DJ to play at the reception Take out wedding insurance Book the honeymoon and check your passports Consult your hairdresser about the day
3 MONTHS TO GO
Decide on your wedding list and circulate to guests Order the cake Confirm ceremony details with the registrar or minister Buy gifts for the best man, ushers and bridesmaids Discuss seating plan with the caterer
If your honeymoon is abroad, arrange necessary vaccinations Plan your hen and stag parties If required, notify your bank, building society and relevant authorities of the date that your name will change
1 MONTH TO GO Arrange for a final fitting of your wedding dress Confirm the arrangements in writing with the reception venue, caterer, florist, photographer, transport provider and others Confirm the honeymoon arrangements Have hen and stag nights Finalise the reception seating plan with the caterer Anyone speaking at the wedding should write, time and practise their speeches
1 WEEK TO GO Arrange a wedding rehearsal Collect your dress Wear your wedding shoes around the house to break them in Complete your final beauty preparations Pack for your honeymoon Think through the logistics of the day so everyone is clear what is happening
ON THE DAY Have a relaxing bath or shower Eat breakfast Bridesmaids and page boys arrive The photographer arrives Hair and make-up Bride and bridesmaids get dressed Wedding transport arrives Relax and enjoy the day!
BUDGET PLANNER
Keep tabs on what you’ve spent, what you will need and how much money is left in the piggy bank with this handy guide. PLANNER
Engagement ring Wedding ring (hers) Wedding ring (his) Dress Shoes Veil Lingerie Hair accessories Jewellery Hair trial and on the day Make-up trial and on the day Cosmetics Groom’s suit Groom’s shoes Attendants’ outfits Ceremony fees Flowers Reception venue Catering Drink Cake Entertainment Photography/video Transport Stationery Favours/attendants’ gifts First night hotel Honeymoon Going away outfit Honeymoon wardrobe Insurance Other
TOTAL
ESTIMATED
ACTUAL
Get yourself noticed by the Bride-to-be!
Call Jacqui Lewis on
0117 934 3136
to advertise in the next issue of West Weddings magazine
get yourself noticed FP.indd 1
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G E T M AR R I E D I N C L I F TO N
FR OM £3500
R E S TA U R A N T & B A R
T HE CLIFTO N WEDDING PACKAGE H OST YOUR C EREM ONY & W ED D I NG B REA K F A S T I N T H E L A V I S H SETTING AT NO. 4 FOL L OW ED B Y A F O O T - S T O MP I N G EVENI NG P ART Y AT RACK S
S E E W E B S I T E F O R P A C K A G E D ET A I LS N O 4 C LI F T O N V I LLA G E .CO .UK (Based on 40 day guests and 100 evening)