West Weddings Winter 2012 by West Weddings

FREE COVERING BATH, BRISTOL, GLOUCESTERSHIRE & SOMERSET Winter 2012/13

www.west-weddings.co.uk

SHOULD

THE WOMAN PROPOSE?

Food for thought: CLEVER ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL CAKES

GORGEOUS GOWNS

IAN STUART PRIVATE LABEL by G ESSENSE

From

Russia with

AN INSIDERS GUIDE to getting the best

from your wedding photography

20% OFF AT KOO-TURE.COM

Love

11/6/2012 10:51:32 AM

Anne Harding

Bristol’s only Bridal Specialist that offers you the option to hire, design or buy your designer wedding gown. Ask us for more information on our exclusive hire options and our interest free monthly payment plans. View our range of bridesmaids dresses and don’t forget our mens formal hire, offering the best service and styles for miles! Find us on facebook

(Anne Harding Bristol)

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK FOR EXCLUSIVE PROMOTIONS AND DISCOUNT CODES

DESIGNER SAMPLE SALE EVENT INSTORE NOW

– Amazing Gowns from as little as £300 – Including Sincerity Bridal, Justin Alexander and Essense Gowns

Call now to book an appointment during NOVEMBER

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Weddings

One of the largest showrooms in Bristol, with an endless choice on waistcoats, cravats and designer suits new for 2013 If you are looking for the very best of service and the highest of standards â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you need look no further! View our huge range of formal hire, from the traditional to the contemporary - look no further.

90-92 Shirehampton Road, Stoke Bishop, Bristol Tel. 0117 9683074 â&#x20AC;˘ www.anneharding.com

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THE TEAM CONTRIBUTORS Acting Editor: Hannah Chapman, Writers: Annie Campbell, Richard Duerden, Lewis Parker, Rebecca Oliver, Mike Gartside, Kate Hacker, Charlotte Le Lohé, Sophie Shorland, Sharon Diamond, Rachel Barnett, and Carla Yorukoglu.Design: Sarah Malone, Sarah Clark and Cath Evans Commercial Director: Becky Davis ADVERTISING To advertise in future editions of West Weddings contact: Jacqui Lewis T: 0117 934 3136 E: j.lewis@bepp.co.uk EDITORIAL To contribute to future editions of West Weddings contact: Helen Dorritt T: 0117 934 3742 E: westweddings@venue.co.uk DISTRIBUTION To have a regular free delivery of the magazine to your business contact: Simon Butler T: 0117 934 3741 E: S.Butler@bepp.co.uk PUBLISHER West Weddings Magazine is published by Venue at Bristol News and Media, 4th Floor, BN&M, Temple Way, Bristol BS99 7HD Telephone: 0117 942 8491

Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ westweddings and check out our blog at www. westweddings.blogspot. com. FREE COVERING BATH, BRISTOL, GLOUCESTERSHIRE & SOMERSET Winter 2012/13

www.west-weddings.co.uk

SHOULD

THE WOMAN PROPOSE?

Food for thought: CLEVER ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL CAKES

GORGEOUS GOWNS

IAN STUART PRIVATE LABEL by G ESSENSE

From

Russia with

AN INSIDERS GUIIDE to getting the best

Welcome to West Weddings Winter 2012

ell, it’s official. After a soggy summer and a relatively miserable autumn, winter is fast upon us, and with editor Helen exploring warmer climes, it’s down to me to bring you some wedding inspiration. But it’s not all sad news. Instead we’re thinking of festive fires, warm drinks and evenings spent at home catching up on neglected ‘summer reads’. One of the things I love most about winter is that it’s a season of change. People are wrapped up warmer, the trees are barer and, thanks to frost and fairy lights, everything glitters. This edition draws inspiration from Russia as we transform the stunning Ston Easton Park into a romantic hideaway fit for Anna Karenina herself. With statement dresses, show-stopping accessories and immaculate styling, our shoot is bound to inspire you. And it doesn’t stop there: from millinery to men’s wear, we’ve got bag-loads of ideas. We’re looking at ways to keep your nerves in check on the run-up to your big day, learning about wedding photography with advice from the pros, and there’s food for thought for brides with allergies. Let us know what you think at westweddings@venue.co.uk or by tweeting us @westweddings. All you need to do now is grab a blanket, and enjoy.

from your wedding photography

20% OFF AT KOO-TURE.COM

Love

Hannah K Chapman, Acting Editor

11/2/2012 1:18:31 PM

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Winter2012 _Contents.indd 4

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contents WINTER 2012

REGULARS 6 Wedding news Winter flowers inspiration 8 News feature A round up of the region’s wedding fairs 12 Ask the experts Your questions answered 20 Real weddings Four couples share their big day, including Jennie and Shaun’s family affair 46 Online Our presence on the web 47 Budget and countdown Keep track of those facts and figures 84 Photo gallery Fantastic photography from the best in the West 88 Directory Lots of local contacts 90 Last word Should women propose?

FASHION 18 Autumn style Ways to use this season’s hues and textures 16 Get 20% off at Koo-Ture.com 29 Gowns Top supplies including Maggie Sottero, Ian Stuart and White One 42 2-1 dresses Anne Harding shows of this latest trend 44 Menswear Highland fashion

49 Cover shoot Ston Easton Park is the perfect backdrop for our winter wedding

BE INSPIRED 59 Photo masterclass Get the most from your photographer 60 In and out What’s up and what’s down with our wedding wasp 64 Beauty bible The latest products for bridal beauty

VENUES 72 You need answers What to ask your venue before you book!

COMPETITION 17 WIN a wedding dress At Special Day and Appletons

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news

NewsFlowers

CREATIVITY PLANNING COLOUR

WINTER BLOOMS

Annie Campbell takes a look at which blossoms are best for a wintery wedding.

arrying flowers is one of our most enduring wedding traditions, and with hundreds of beautiful arrangements now available, from the simple and traditional to the ostentatious and sublime, no bride needs to go without some budding blooms on her special day. With winter on the way, many brides choosing to marry at this time of year might like their bouquets to tip their petals to the season. Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to carry bare branches down the aisle, as almost all florists will stock seasonal flowers that not only look stunning, but also cost less than their unseasonal counterparts. Star-like cymbidium orchids are in season at this time of year, and enable brides to add a touch of colour to their winter bouquets. Or, if those aren’t for you, early spring blossoms such as tulips and anemones make beautiful bridal flowers and hold up well in slightly cooler weather. Colour is perhaps one of the most important aspects of a bride’s bouquet, and winter brings with it many options for your flower colour pallet. A bunch of deep red roses will ooze tradition and look stunning against a crisp white gown, or if it’s a touch of Christmastide you’re after, bunches of amaryllis or elegantly trailing ivy will embody the spirit of the season. Winter is also the perfect time of year for brides to include ‘something blue’ in their bouquet. Icy blues add a touch of seasonal 64 West frost to aWeddings winter ceremony and deep, rich hues look

beautiful against trailing cream lace. And whilst white Christmases might be uncommon in Britain, a white wedding is well within your grasp! The curling blooms of white calla lilies look stunning in bridal bouquets, and unlike some more sensitive petals they like a chillier climate. Tina, of Tiger Lily Flowers in Bristol, says: “Inclusion of willow, feathers and sparkles is always good to add to the winter wonderland theme too.” Tiger Lily Flowers have supplied beautiful bouquets and stunning flower arrangements for hundreds of weddings across the South West (as well as a few far further afield). They offer help and advice for all their brides and grooms to be. On their website they say: “We realise that each and every bride is different and deserves to have something uniquely individual and as special as they are.” This personal service is a key part of Tiger Lily’s ethos, and to make sure every bride gets what she is looking for they offer free, noobligation bridal consultations, where they will get to know you, listen to your ideas and happily offer a few of their own. If you’re looking for a touch of tradition or something a little more quirky and individual, the florists at Tiger Lily will do their best to cater to your own specific wants and needs. So whether it’s a sprinkling of snowy petals, a bunch of romantic roses, or a bouquet of surprisingly bright blooms you want for your winter wedding, there’s a flower and florist out there to help you!

CONTACT TIGER LILY FLOWERS 3 CHELFORD GROVE, PATCHWAY, BRISTOL BS34 6DD T: 01454 856737 W: WWW.TIGERLILYFLOWERS.CO.UK

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Spring into SummerWeddings DoubleTree by Hilton Cadbury House

From as little as £2499 for up to 40 guests • Room Hire for Afternoon and Evening Reception • Private Bar • Reception Drink on arrival (Bucks Fizz, mulled wine or Sparkling Wine) • Coffee and Chocolates • Glass of Sparkling Wine for the toast • Decorated tables to include White Linen Table cloths and Napkins, Confetti Sprinkles, T-Lite Candles in Bristol Blue Glass, Fresh Floral arrangments, Helium Balloons, Wedding Cake stand & knife • Disco for Evening Party • Evening Finger Buffet • Complimentary overnight accommodation with breakfast for the happy couple in a luxury suite • Commitment and Civil ceremonies - £250 (additional registrar charges apply)

March £4999 April £4999 May £5499 Up to 80 Guests for afternoon and evening in the Great Room or Drawing Room March/April/May £3500 Up to 40 Guests for afternoon and up to 80 for evening in the Master Room * Offers subject to availability for new bookings only All prices fully incusive of VAT Commitment and Civil ceremonies - £250 (additional registrar charges apply)

Few last remaining dates. December £3999 January £4499 February £4999 Up to 80 guests for afternoon and evening in the Great Room or Drawing Room

December £2499 January £2999 February £3500 April £3500 May £3500 Up to 40 guests for afternoon and up to 80 evening in the Master Room

Please call Sarah or Leigh on 01934 837248 quoting SSS for available dates and further information p7.indd 1

11/2/2012 2:29:33 PM

NewsWeddingVenues

OLD DOWN MANOR Although it’s a stag and not a reindeer standing proudly in the grounds of Old Down Manor, you cannot deny the festive appeal of this country house. With eight bedrooms, a swimming pool, a bar, and enough sofas to seat an army, you hardly need to go outside, but not to would be a real shame as Old Down Manor’s grounds include beautiful landscaped garden and stunning views of the area.

WINTER WONDERLANDS

OLD DOWN MANOR FOXHOLES LANE, TOCKINGTON, BRISTOL, BS32 4PG T: 01454 414081 E: INFO@ OLDDOWNMANOR.CO.UK W: WWW.OLDDOWNMANOR.CO.UK

Hannah Chapman rounds up some stunning South West venues that are ideal for winter weddings.

THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM

INGLESIDE HOUSE

Standing between Bath’s Great Pulteney Street and Sydney Gardens, the Holburne Museum only opened for weddings this year, but we know it’s going to be a very popular venue. Surround yourself with the beautiful collection, first started by Sir Thomas William Holburne and bequeathed to the people of Bath by his sister in 1882. Guests can enjoy a wedding breakfast surrounded by gorgeous works of art in the Holburne Picture Gallery, or a drinks reception in the elegant ballroom. THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM GREAT PULTENEY ST, BATH, BA2 4DB T: 01225 388569 E: HOLBURNE@BATH.AC.UK W: WWW.HOLBURNE.ORG

With its oak floors and gorgeous fireplaces, Ingleside House would be an excellent venue for a winter wedding. With five function rooms to choose from, the property is able to cater for weddings of from 20 to 200 guests. The Barn Theatre can be dressed to look like a marquee, an added bonus for brides wanting some summer style in the winter months.

The Holburne Museum

INGLESIDE HOUSE 5 BEECHES RD, CIRENCESTER, GL7 1BN T: 01285 648 230 E: INFO@INGLESIDECIRENCESTER. COM W: WWW.INGLESIDECIRENCESTER. COM

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WeddingVenuesNews

STON EASTON PARK Ston Easton Park was the location for our wonderful ‘Anna Karenina’-inspired shoot, and this gorgeous property in the heart of Somerset could be the setting for your own wedding day. With extravagant four-poster beds, a well-stocked library, Regency dining room and picturesque views of the River Norr, Ston Easton can provide a fabulous setting for your wedding, both inside and out. STON EASTON PARK NR BATH, SOMERSET, BA3 4DF T: 01761 241631 E: INFO@STONEASTON. CO.UK W: WWW.STONEASTON.CO.UK

BRUNEL’S SS GREAT BRITAIN For a watery winter wedding, why not consider the charming ss Great Britain? Your guests will delight at the opportunity to rummage around this historic ship, and the Saloon is the ideal location for your wedding reception with its luxurious marble pillars and antique decor. And if it’s warmth you’re after, then the dry dock is just for you: with air as dry as the Arizona desert, it’s the warmest place you can be in the South West this winter. BRUNEL’S SS GREAT BRITAIN GREAT WESTERN DOCKYARD, BRISTOL, BS1 6TY T: 0117 926 0680 W: WWW.SSGREATBRITAIN.ORG

GOLDBRICK HOUSE For those wanting a wedding in the heart of Bristol, Goldbrick House not only boasts a central location, its cosy interior will fight back the gloom of these colder months. With two restaurants and a selection of smaller rooms and bars, Goldbrick House is able to cater for most wedding parties, so whether you’re hosting an intimate celebration for 25 or an extravagant reception for 200, there’s a space for everyone. Goldbrick House also offers exclusive use of the House on Sundays and bank holidays. GOLDBRICK HOUSE 69 PARK ST, WEST END, BRISTOL, BS1 5PB T: 0117 945 1950 W: WWW. GOLDBRICKHOUSE.CO.UK

MERCURE BRISTOL NORTH THE GRANGE This four-star hotel, set in 18 acres of gardens, is close enough to Bristol to be convenient for your guests but has all the elegance of a country wedding. Able to serve 150 guests for a banquet, Mercure Bristol North The Grange is ideal for larger wedding parties who do not want to forgo feeding their guests. The Conservatory Bar and Lounge can seat up to 70 for civil ceremonies. MERCURE BRISTOL NORTH THE GRANGE OLD GLOUCESTER RD, NORTHWOODS, WINTERBOURNE, BS36 1RP T: 0844 815 9063 E: 063RS@JUPITERHOTELS.CO.UK WEST WEDDINGS 9

Winter2012 _NewsVenues.indd 9

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Bridal Wedding Fayres at some of the Finest Venues in The Cotswolds Dates For Your Diary ..... ALWAYS * FREE ADMISSION* & * FREE GOODIE BAG* Arrival Drink upon Registration 11am - 3pm

Many Wedding Fayre Specials on the Day Exhibiting Everything from the Necessity to the Unique ..... The Only Limit is Your Imagination ! Sunday, 11th November 2012 The Cross Hands Hotel Old Sodbury, Bristol Sunday, 13th January 2013 The Cheltenham Regency Hotel# Staverton, Cheltenham Thursday, 24th January 2013 4pm - 8pm Open Evening The Hallmark Hotel Gloucester Robinswood Hill, Matson Sunday, 3rd February 2013 Hatherley Manor Hotel Down Hatherley Lane Sunday, 24th February 2013 The Hallmark Hotel Gloucester Robinswood Hill, Matson

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OUR FORTHCOMING WEDDING FAYRES SUNDAY 20TH JANUARY 2013

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The Bristol Golf Club, Almondsbury 11am - 3pm FREE admission & complimentary glass of bubbly Guild line 01225 481840 Please visit our website for more details www.theuniqueweddingguild.co.uk

11/2/2012 12:39:25 PM

News

Happy birthday BRIDEZILLAS B

ridezillas is one year old this month and owner Amanda Davis-Harrison says it has been an amazing first year. “I believed strongly, based on my own experience of getting married, that there was a real need for a specialist bridal accessories boutique to help bridesto-be find the perfect accessories to complement their dress. After months of planning and preparation we opened our doors in Keynsham last November with the aim of providing a brilliant experience to brides. We have a wide range of accessories to suit all budgets including our own range Abigail Grace, made by myself and featuring vintage side tiaras. “The response has been fantastic – customers have been full of praise for the shop, our wide product range and our service. With a great position on the bustling Keynsham High Street, opposite St John’s Church where I was married, we are perfectly placed to serve the brides of Bristol and Bath and have had customers from Taunton, Cheltenham, London and South Wales. “We are passionate about what we do and have spent our first year building a reputation and we are

Find amazing accessories at bridezillas.

looking forward to building on that in year two. We do wedding gifts, shabby chic wares as well as bridal accessories. We are expanding into selling wedding favours, birdcage hire and wedding brolly hire. If you haven’t already visited us, come and see us at 18 High Street, Keynsham or browse and buy online at www.bridezillas.biz” 12. To celebrate the shop’s one year anniversary, Bridezillas are offering a 20% discount throughout November on all items in the boutique (except for shoes and weddington boots). West Weddings readers can take advantage of this offer online by using code WWZIL20 from 1-30 November 2012.

BRIDEZILLAS 18 HIGH STREET, KEYNSHAM, BS31 1DQ T: 0117 904 3039 W: WWW.BRIDEZILLAS.BIZ

You deserve to look as special as we believe you are!

A BRIDAL ACCESSORY BOUTIQUE WITH A DIFFERENCE IMAGINE A VINTAGE / SHABBY CHIC STYLE BOUTIQUE THAT OFFERS A BEAUTIFUL RANGE OF BRIDAL ACCESSORIES, WITH WELL KNOWN BRANDS AND BESPOKE DESIGNS. OUR LITTLE EMPORIUM IS HERE TO GIVE YOU JUST THAT, WITH FRIENDLY EXPERTISE SERVICE WE ARE SURE TO FIND THE RIGHT SPARKLE FOR YOU. WE SELL EVERYTHING BUT THE DRESS, INCLUDING GIFTS. CONTACT US ABOUT OUR VIP WEDDING WEDNESDAY APPOINTMENTS

WWW.BRIDEZILLAS.BIZ VISIT THE BOUTIQUE BRIDEZILLAS LTD, 18 HIGH STREET, KEYNSHAM, BRISTOL BS31 1DQ TELEPHONE : 0117 9043039 EMAIL: amanda@bridezillas.biz WEST WEDDINGS 11

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SUGAR FLOWERS,WEDDING FAIRS, PERFECT HEADTOTOE

you need to ask the experts... Winter is coming but these useful tips from our industry experts will leave you stress free.

Sugar Flowers I would love to have sugar flowers on my wedding cake, what are the options? Mary Pym, Gloucester

Wedding Contacts

Perfect Image

I’ve recently started organising my wedding but I’m confused. There are so many suppliers, I’d like to meet them face to face but it would take too long. Any suggestions?

How do I make sure that my hair and nails look perfect on my big day? Lily McHugh, Somerset

Sarah Lewis, Bath

Anne Gliddon of Pretty Amazing Cakes says:

Ali Cook of Bristol Vintage says:

Sugar flowers can be made to resemble your bouquet in colours toned to complement

Wedding Fairs are the perfect answer – the exhibitors are there to meet

FFI: WWW.PRETTYAMAZINGCAKES.CO.UK

FFI: WWW.BRISTOLVINTAGE.CO.UK

your scheme. They can look very realistic and pretty when entwined with pearls or diamante, perhaps with a lustred shimmery finish. It is helpful to give your cake maker a colour swatch to assist with matching. If you want your sugar flowers to be a lasting reminder of your wedding day, hand-wired keepsake sprays can be made; these are held within a small tube to protect your cake from the wired stems; the petals are fragile so should be handled carefully when removing. Sugar flowers look beautiful displayed in a glass cloche or cabinet, and if kept dry and dust free, can last for years. The beauty of sugar flowers is they will not wilt if the cake has to remain uncut for some time and they transform the plainest cake into a stunning centrepiece.

you, show you their wares and services, and chat to you about what you want for your big day. A good fair should have a wide variety of exhibitors, offering a range of services, and you might even find the right suppliers for every aspect of your wedding under one roof! I’d suggest finding local fairs in wedding magazines and on the web, take a look at the fair’s website and exhibitor list to see if they appeal to you. The Bristol Vintage Wedding Fair has fabulous dresses, accessories, photographers, cakes, flowers, music, stationery, favours, vintage crockery and lots of individual, local businesses to help make your wedding day really special, and it’s held in a gorgeous venue – Clifton Pavilion, Bristol Zoo Gardens. See

Glen Holmes of Hush Hairdressing says: The secret to wedding day beauty is to start preparing early. Six months

before, you need to start discussing hair and make-up styles. Three months beforehand you should have your hair trimmed and trial your wedding style. Two months before, schedule your nail and make-up sessions – and if you’re colouring your hair, do it now. With one month to go, have a trial hair and make-up session, drink at least six glasses of water a day; buy and test skin, hair and make-up products for use on the day. Two weeks before, you should have a facial, have your hair cut or trimmed and have any hair colour or highlights touched up. Have your eyebrows shaped and check when you should wash or deep condition your hair with a week/ten days to go. On the day before, have a manicure and pedicure and apply extra moisturiser.

FFI: WWW.HUSHHAIRBRISTOL.CO.UK 12 WEST WEDDINGS

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11/6/2012 11:05:53 AM

LoveActuallyweddings

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Wedding Fayres (11.30am - 4pm, unless specified)

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427 Gloucester Road Bristol BS7 8TZ T: 07931 859986 W: theweddingworksbristol.co.uk E: studio@theweddingworksbristol.co.uk

Open Tues – Thurs 10am – 5pm Fri 10am - 3pm Sat by appointment only Sun & Mon Closed

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News

SWEET TREATS When I hear the words wedding favours, writes Lewis Parker, one of the first things that comes to mind are those awful sugared almonds that are always given, nevredundant and imperer eaten. These alsonal gift. But ditching mond ‘treats’ were sugared almonds doesn’t introduced during necessarily mean ditchthe 13th century ing taste – or, as we as an alternative should say, favours of to a bonbonniere, the edible variety. which was a small Anne Gliddon, the box made of either creative talent behind porcelain or crysBristol’s Pretty Amazing Beehive Brides and tal, filled with sugar Cakes, has a variety of Chocolate Delores cubes. These were mouthwatering Cookie creation at Bristol Vintage Wedding Fair. Favours. Influenced by to represent wealth, as sugar was not available to the masses: it was revered romance and elegance, as an expensive commodity with medical Anne gives favours a vintage spin with benefits. The sugared almonds were to these delicate hand-crafted treats. From signify well wishes to the bridegroom, iced birdcages and wedding dresses, with and in modern weddings five are given flavours such as very vanilla and tangy to represent health, happiness, longevity, orange, these tasty gifts are sure to go fertility and wealth. down well with guests. Sweet almond However, times are changing and people cookies are also available for couples are moving away from the traditional who want to stay with tradition but want and experimenting with more personal a modern twist. The cookies range from favours. I was once presented with a mix £1.50 to £2.50, depending on the designs CD featuring the favourite songs of the of the favour. newlyweds. On paper this is an original PRETTY AMAZING CAKES T: 0117 9243036 or and quirky favour, but one that could 07791 208 754 prove expensive and, unless your guests W: PRETTYAMAZINGCAKES@GMAIL.COM share a similar taste in music, a slightly

A little bird told us... The South West is full of creative businesses, especially in the wedding industry. A lot of those businesses are run from home, by amazing individuals, but running a business is hard work and can be isolating at times. If you’re in the wedding industry, then a ‘tweet up’ is a great way of meeting those you may normally only talk to on Twitter or Facebook. Over a glass of bubbly, delicious canapés, music and a business card draw, tweet ups are held at Goldbrick House in Bristol and have grown in popularity since starting over a year ago. Run by Kirsten, aka The Little Wedding Helper, they give anyone in the industry a chance to meet others and have a great night out. For more details email hello@littleweddinghelper.co.uk and check out the Facebook page ‘The Little Wedding Tweet Ups’.

Hollywood glamour from

HERMIONE HARBUTT Award-winning British accessories designer Hermione Harbutt has recently opened her beautiful new showroom at 13 The Clifton Arcade, in the heart of Clifton Village, Bristol. Hermione Harbutt is renowned for creating exquisite bridal headdresses and jewellery of heirloom quality. As the designer to celebrities and guests of the Royal Wedding, Hermione Harbutt pieces are the epitome of luxury and quality for the discerning woman. The new Red Carpet Collection features a wide range of colours and designs. As with the bridal collections, inspiration was taken from bygone eras and applied to current

colour trends to create modern pieces with a vintage feel. Large deco roses silhouetted against the hair, concentric circles of delicate beading and bright turquoise framed with gold and lapis are just a few of the styles of pieces available. Now settled into the new showroom, a visit to Hermione Harbutt is a must for Bristol and Bath ladies searching for special occasion and bridal accessories with the wow factor. HERMIONE HARBUTT 13 THE CLIFTON ARCADE, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 4AA W: WWW.HERMIONEHARBUTT.COM

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News

A year of With the Olympics a mere memory, local businesses are going for gold and celebrating their first anniversaries. Organic hair salon HUSH Hairdressing celebrated in style with a party for clients and friends at its salon on Baldwin Street. You may recognise their creative works from the last three West Weddings shoots. We love to work with the team, who really bring our creative vision to life through careful research of period hairstyles and their knowledge of the latest trends and technologies. As an organic and mineral-based salon, HUSH uses only natural, plant-based products, combining a modern, caring approach with the latest skills and organic technology, which is proving popular with ladies and gents in Bristol and beyond. The salon is open from 9.30am-7.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am-5pm on Saturday. For further information on HUSH Hairdressing, please visit www.hushhairbristol.co.uk HUSH HAIRDRESSING 27-29 BALDWIN STREET, BRISTOL T: 0117 930 0350 W: WWW.HUSHHAIRBRISTOL.CO.UK

SLATE EXPECTATIONS Newlyweds Kate and Justin were so inspired by their use of slate in their own wedding that they’ve set up shop with The Slate Boutique. “As Justin is and always has been a roofer, we decided to incorporate slate into our wedding,” says Kate. “We made our own huge slate arrow at the end of the lane that said ‘Kate and Justin’s Big Day’, and used arched slates in their raw form to make our own ‘slogan slates’. One said ‘Love is in the air……’ and the other said ‘Better late than never’, as it was a standing joke amongst our friends that Justin took so long to propose! We also served the canapés on slate, which looked fab!” They now offer a range of products including various sized hanging hearts with beautiful ribbon, memo boards for the kitchen or garden, coasters, plant markers and tableware in the usual dark slate, but also

in the more rustic, country-feel reclaimed Cornish slate. Their wedding offerings include little heart favours that double up as the name place and allow the guests to take something home as a memento of the day. These hearts also look amazing tied to the chairs for the wedding party or just hung around the room for decoration. The signs and arrows are personalised, depending on the venue and bride and groom, and can add a fun element to the decoration, and the circular, square or heart-shaped table centrepieces provide a depth of colour to the table and really stand out. You can read all about read all about Kate and Justin’s own gorgeous day on our Real Wedding pages. THE SLATE BOUTIQUE T 07800 895184 W: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/THESLATEBOUTIQUE & WWW.TWITTER.COM/SLATEBOUTIQUE

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News

READER OFFER

20%

OFF

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reat yourself to some red carpet glamour with Koo-Ture.com and rest assured that all eyes will be on you, whether it’s floor-length jewel tones or a knee-high coral number. Dare to be noticed this festive season! We have teamed up with KooTure.com to offer West Weddings readers a stunning 20% off the entire range, simply by entering code WEST20 at the checkout. Whether you’re a bride looking to dress your bridesmaids or a wedding guest looking for that perfect outfit, you’re sure to find what you want at Koo-Ture.com

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11/2/2012 10:51:08 AM

COMPETITION

WIN A

wedding DRESS

Special Day and Appletons is giving away a wedding dress worth up to £1,000 to one lucky bride!

inning the competition, our blushing bride will be invited to an appointment with Special Day and Appletons’ first lady, Jackie Sweeting, to try on a selection of the shop’s beautiful dresses. The winner can choose any dress up to the value of £1,000 – although you can make up the value if you fall in love with a dress that costs a little more! Special Day and Appletons is based in Keynsham and offers a fabulous selection of gowns by designers such as Sottero and Midgeley, Ellis Bridal, Bonny Bridal, Bonny Unforgettable, Impression Bridal, Mark Lesley, Lou Lou and Opulence by Natalie M. Special Day has a wonderful reputation for warm hospitality, helpfulness and professionalism, and you can guarantee that you’ll walk away with the dress of your dreams.

HOW TO WIN

WIN YOUR DRESS ENTRY PANEL

To be in with a chance of winning a wedding dress up to the value of £1,000, follow these simple steps:

Bride’s name:................................................................................................................

• Answer the following question: Where is Special Day and Appletons based?

Address:........................................................................................................................

• Fill in your details and the competition answer on the entry panel and send by post to: Win The Frills, Bristol News & Media, Temple Way, Bristol BS99 7HD. Alternatively, you can enter online at www.west-weddings.co.uk or by emailing your answer plus details to b.davis@venue.co.uk please mark your subject Competition Entry. • All entries must be received by FRIDAY 1ST FEBRUARY 2013. The prize winner will be notified by FRIDAY 1ST MARCH 2013

Answer:.........................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................Postcode: .......................... Email address: . ............................................................................................................ Telephone no: ............................................................................................................. Wedding date: ............................................................................................................. Terms and conditions apply. Please see page 89 for full terms and conditions or visit www.west-weddings.co.uk/competitionrules. The prize provider ONLY may contact entrants with offers or discounts. Please tick here if you do not wish to be contacted ❏

WEST WEDDINGS 17

Winter2012 _Competition_dress.indd 17

11/2/2012 2:38:20 PM

WinterStyle

The Wonder of

WINTER With the new season approaching, vintage and dramatic touches look fabulous in a white, winter wedding. Carla Yorukoglu explores how you can take advantage of a potentially frosty affair.

s the crisp autumn air transforms into a colder, frosty winter landscape, this season’s weddings are often the most beautiful. Whilst a snowy backdrop is not a guarantee, this doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate such features into your wedding. Embrace the fresh, albeit, changing climate and take inspiration from this wonderful time of the year.

THINK ABOUT YOUR SURROUNDINGS and decide whether you want to be a little more covered up than a strapless summer design permits. Winter is often an incredibly cold time of the year and a dress with sleeves will not look out of place. The Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress is a firm favourite with brides to be as she showed that long sleeves are not only practical but also stunning. Be inspired by a ‘White Christmas’ classic Hollywood wedding and add vintage touches to your dress - you will walk down the aisle with style and sophistication.

CONTINUE THE VINTAGE THEME and experiment with different fabrics and textures. Designers such as Carolina Herrera have launched their winter collections, incorporating the classic white or ivory dress with clean silhouettes and feminine necklines. Look no further than lace which can be used in smaller details, such as on the waistband, or all over to create a more full on effect. Vera Wang has fused her winter designs with dramatic, gothic tones and more workable caramel hints. Winter does not necessarily mean white, so experiment with colour and make a statement.

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11/1/2012 5:04:01 PM

WinterStyle

WHILE SPRING AND SUMMER offer more delicate, lighter palettes such as blush and shades of green, pops of red and emerald will complement the winter landscape. If you are feeling brave, add a flash of red lipstick to create a statement. Or if you want to be a little more subtle why not add nuances of gold into your make up with rich, warm shadows. Don’t forget that Christmas is just around the corner so extend this palette into the table designs and invitations.

NOTHING SAYS WINTER MORE THAN VELVET. Don’t be afraid of the heaviness of this material, as it exudes luxury and will add fairytale elements to the whole event. If you don’t like the idea of a complete velvet design, this sensuous fabric will look fantastic around your shoulders working into a sweetheart neckline. Finish this off with delicate gloves, completing the princess effect.

PIC CREDIT: ELEGANTIMPRESSIONS.WORDPRESS.COM

FLOWERS ARE OFTEN THE CAUSE OF MUCH PANIC FOR A BRIDE PLANNING HER WEDDING. Red roses are timeless and will help you capture that vintage glamour in your wedding photos. There are also plenty of decadent winter blossoms for you to choose from, with anemones and cymbidium orchids promising to provide that burst of colour. Adding white snowberries, feathers, or a few Dusty Miller leaves will bring the flowers alive, bringing season appeal.

WINTER FOOD IS OFTEN SYNONYMOUS WITH COMFORT but this doesn’t mean that your guests have to face a heavy and stodgy affair. Spices such as cinnamon and ginger can transform a wedding meal into a sumptuous occasion. While champagne can add a touch of class, mulled wine is perfect for creating a warm and aromatic atmosphere. Continue this indulgent theme with your wedding cake. Fruit cakes are in abundance during the winter period and are a fail-safe way of keeping your guests happy, but a tiered cake will allow you to put your own touches to the creation, so think about layering a mixture of tastes and textures. The comfort of sticky toffee puddings and treacle sponges can be transformed into elegant wedding cakes, and with hints of caramel and treacle, the sponge will look gorgeous with an ivory icing. Some wedding cakes are like pieces of art so be creative and add those personalised touches with glitter and dusts.

PIC CREDIT: POSIESANDPIPPA.WORDPRESS.COM

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11/6/2012 11:13:21 AM

Realweddings

All ABOARD

Kate Hacker talks to Jon Gill and Sarah Richards-Gill about their nautical nuptials.

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Realweddings Realweddings

FULL STEAM AHEAD Sarah and Jon tied the knot on Bristol’s iconic ss Great Britain

armth, intimacy and family ties met world-travelling, jet-setting adventure in the story of Jon and Sarah’s romance. These Portishead natives and long-time school friends were married in May after nearly a decade together. The road to marriage started out in a Mustang convertible, on a 200 mile drive from Fort Lauderdale to Key West, Florida for Sarah’s 30th birthday. Sarah’s birthday came and went with no sign of a proposal, which left her a bit disappointed – but not for long. A few nights into the trip, the couple found themselves in a picturesque hotel in Islamorada. That evening, standing at the end of a jetty with the sun setting behind them, Jon proposed. A happy and tearful Sarah said yes. The venue for the day, the ss Great Britain, played the backdrop for both the ceremony and reception. “The ship has so much history and lends itself really well to the occasion,” explains Sarah. “We both have maritime connections as well – Jon is a keen sailor and I have ancestors who used to work on pilot cutters in Pill. We love being by the sea so it was an easy choice for us.” Sarah and Jon’s wedding was filled with personal touches, including the vintage 1953 Sunbeam Alpine Roadster that Sarah’s father restored just in time to drive her to the ss Great Britain in style. “It’s been a real labour of love and it is absolutely stunning,” says Sarah. “I wouldn’t have wanted anything else!” For their colour scheme, the couple kept it classy. “We wanted to go for something traditional with a twist so we chose a black and ivory colour scheme,” explains Sarah. “It also tied in nicely with the hull of the ship and hopefully it will be timeless!” Carrying on the colour scheme, the couple chose simple and sweet-smelling bouquets handtied with black ribbon, a combination of ivory roses, wax flower, sea holly, freesia, eucalyptus and rosemary, all provided by Lloyds Flowers, Bristol. The venue was simply adorned with ivy and ivory roses wrapped around two of the pillars on the promenade deck of the ship, and a floral table display. Jon and Sarah’s love of cheese inspired them to have a black and white wax covered cheese cake –but not the cheesecake you’d expect – an actual cake made of cheese! “We both love cheese so it made sense to have a cake made of wheels

DETAILS Venue ss Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Road, Bristol BS1 6TY T: 0117 926 0680 W: www.ssgreatbritain.org Photography Photodabek T: 0117 350 1032 W: www.photodabek.co.uk Wedding dress Ellis, style number 11219 W: www.ellisbridals.co.uk Flowers Lloyds Flowers, Bristol T: 0117 973 1155 Cake The Cheese Shed, Devon T: 07703 965595 W: www.thecheeseshed.com Entertainment Harry Brown’s (Shantymen) T: 01458 274407 W: www.harrybrowns.org.uk Claire Dibble (Harp) T: 0117 974 5275 W: www. clairedibble.co.uk Gary Grace (Band) W: www.garygrace.co.uk Hair & makeup Jean Mays T: 01275 843180 Men’s suits Moss Bros W: www.mossbros.co.uk Lady in waiting dress LK Bennett T: 0117 929 9125 W: www.lkbennett.com of cheese for our ‘cake’,” explains Jon. Sarah discovered The Cheese Shed in Devon which sold mail order cheese wedding cakes. Paired with some chutney on the day, courtesy of Sarah’s sister, Victoria, the cake was a huge success. Martin from Photodabek and his assistant Simon were the photographers of the day, chosen because they had photographed in the low-light venue previously and could be trusted with the challenge. “[Martin] is really creative with his shots and we were really keen on a reportage style of photography to capture people enjoying the day unawares,” Jon says. For the pièce de résistance, Sarah’s dress, she made up her mind quickly. “I only tried on three dresses before I decided on a style by Ellis,” says Sarah. “I didn’t have any pre-conceived ideas as to what I wanted but the dress I chose was quite classic – not a lot of detail – the dress spoke for itself and the black bow set it off perfectly.” Sarah asked a friend, Fiona, to be her ‘lady

in waiting’ in order to let her two sisters enjoy the wedding as guests, and she asked Lily, the daughter of a friend, to be her flower girl. Fiona wore a simple black pencil dress from LK Bennett, and Lily wore a Monsoon dress altered by Jon’s mum Margaret. Jon and his two best men, his brother Chris and old friend Steve, wore matching tails from Moss suit hire on Park Street. “The outfits really tied in with the ship and we all looked quite dapper!” Jon said. The couple have very happy memories of their wedding and epic honeymoon - “it was certainly the most perfect day that we could ever have wished for. All our friends and family helped make it. WEST WEDDINGS 21

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12/5/2012 10:49:36 AM

At County Marquees we don’t just provide marquees... ...we help you to create the perfect atmosphere for your event

EXPERIENCE • CARE • CHOICE

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www.countymarquees.co.uk info@countymarquees.co.uk 0800 0191933 or 01275 372237

11/1/2012 4:56:58 PM

Realweddings

Afamily

AFFAIR

Jennie Meredith and Shaun Gardner wanted to ensure that their wedding day was in the true spirit of marriage and a shared family experience. Sophie Shorland finds out how.

ntroduced by mutual friends at university, Jennie was first drawn by Shaun’s “lovely eyes and a personality to match.” Unfortunately so much so in fact that it nearly led to disaster on their first date! “I was so distracted I walked off leaving my bag behind at the table where we had been having a drink,” recalls Jennie. “Thankfully it was still there when we went back for it!” Shaun was equally impressed, and four years into their relationship he presented Jennie with his grandmother’s engagement ring. Jennie had been hoping for a “slightly more atmospheric” setting than her living room but thankfully she said yes despite the location! On 3rd September the couple arrived at Jennie’s local parish church in a traditional horse and carriage, a perfect match for the 700 year-old church of St Mary the Virgin in Swainswick, nestled in the picturesque countryside just outside of Bath. Throughout the carriage ride Jennie “had to keep pinching myself… I couldn’t enjoy it enough,” while the gorgeous white roses lining the pews ➻ WEST WEDDINGS 23

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Realweddings

IN THE COUNTRY Jennie and Shaun shared a perfect day on the family farm.

“bedecked the church beautifully and really did make me feel I was living my fairy tale.” The church was particularly special for the couple as Jennie’s parents had tied the knot in the same place 30 years before, and throughout her life Jennie had “sat in those very pews daydreaming about my big day as a princess in a beautiful gown.” The reception venue was an important decision for the couple, with Jennie stating that “I wanted the venue to be somewhere really special and meaningful, not just somewhere that was within an hour’s drive of the church and still available. Thankfully it didn’t take us long to realise that the only place for the reception was on my parents’ farm where I was born and bred.” They welcomed family and friends into a marquee set up in a field on the farm with “a Pimms reception and a beautiful buffet spread of light summery dishes.” Shaun recollects that amazingly “everything had gone to plan, even though we were up till the early hours of the morning before preparing the marquee and rushing round to Asda at midnight just to get table cloths!” Like the church and the reception venue, the wedding dress soon became a family matter. Initially for Jennie, “the dress was the thing which caused me the most heartache - my dream dress was a designer one gracing the pages of all the wedding magazines and was completely out of reach financially. I halfheartedly searched for alternative dresses but of course nothing compared.” As the days ticked by, Jennie began to worry that she was running out of time. But then one day, after another fruitless trawl on the internet, she decided that she would try her mum’s dress on. Bingo! “I loved my mum’s dress,” recalls Jennie. “It was elegantly plain, a timeless lace dress and it had sentimental value. I knew, though, that if I were to wear it I would have to see if it could be let out a bit. Thankfully I found a wonderful dress maker who was able to let out the dress a couple of millimetres and replace the yellowed underskirt with a bright white one, all at the very last minute.” The dress was finally ready by “a cat’s whisker”! Even the cake was influenced by Shaun and Jennie’s family and friends; “Shaun’s granny made us a beautiful heart shaped wedding cake, iced in white fondant and beautifully edged with white chocolate cigarillos.” The couple also invited all the guests to bake a cupcake and decorate it to create a central feature in the marquee. For Shaun the “best part of the day was turning

to my left and seeing my fiancée stood next to me in her stunning dress and thinking ‘I can’t believe she’s mine.’ She looked absolutely stunning, and took my breath away. I was under strict instruction from the vicar that I didn’t turn around until she was stood next to me at the altar, and the wait while she walked down the aisle seemed like it lasted for ever, but it was worth every second to see her standing there next to me.” For Jennie, “It was the best and shortest day of my life,” and Shaun agrees. “There is nothing I would change, other than the chance to be able to stop time and make that moment last forever - in my mind it always will.” A truly memorable day, surrounded by friends and family – the perfect wedding.

DETAILS Wedding venue St Mary the Virgin Church, Innox Lane, Upper Swainswick, Bath BA1 8DB Photography Chris Norris W: www. chrisnorrisphotography.co.uk Bride’s dress alterations Ivory Spice T: 0117 961 3511 W: www.ivoryspice.co.uk Groom’s outfit John Lewis W: www.johnlewis. com Flowers Passion Flower, Manor Barns, Innox Lane, Upper Swainswick, Bath BA1 8DB T: 01225 859994 W: www.flowersbypassion.com Transport Bramble Farm Carriage Hire, Axe and Cleaver Lane, North Bradley, Wiltshire BA14 0SZ T: 01225 767139 W: www. carriagesformarriages.com

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11/1/2012 5:21:52 PM

BRISTOL | CARDIFF | SWANSEA | MUMBLES

Bristol & West major stockist of Maggie Sottero Pronovias Ian Stuart Justin Alexander Mark Lesley Intuzuri 47 Queens Road The Triangle, Clifton Bristol, BS8 4RN 0117 9349426

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11/2/2012 10:21:07 AM

Realweddings

CREDIT: ALL IMAGES MARK SIMMONS

Purple

HAZE Mike and Cath Gartside combined a traditional setting with unalloyed family fun at their Mansion House wedding. Mike writes . . .

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11/1/2012 5:23:23 PM

Realweddings BALMY DAY Cath and Mike enjoyed an outdoorwedding at The Mansion House.

ath had it about right when she said that planning a wedding can play havoc with your marriage. There are few more rigorous stress tests for any couple than the protracted wrangling that wedding organisation involves. No matter how dewy-eyed you are about each other, decisions on a date, venue, the dress, the food, the wine and, crucially, how many family and friends to invite, all feed into an emotional melting pot of expectations versus practicality. Neither of us are churchy people and, for us, the wedding was an opportunity to bring our two families together and show our commitment publicly. We searched the villages around Bristol for a hall to meet our limited budget, but the logistics of this option made it impractical. It was then that a work colleague tipped us off about The Mansion House in Clifton, a wonderful, old, council-owned building which offered very reasonable wedding rates. It was stately yet homely and had a beautiful arbour in the walled garden opposite the grand entrance. Behind the house was an expansive lawn where the whole group (just under 100 of us) could be photographed while children could play hide and seek, giant Jenga or croquet. Accordingly, our friends Marc and Lizzie French designed an elegant invitation for us in the loose theme of the day, purple. Several months and thousands of decisions later, I was standing in front of that grand porch, pacing up and down nervously in my grey mohair tails, tweaking table settings, checking the CD player and fielding the (at the time) unamusing quips from my best man Dave about the possible contents of his speech. But we were lucky. It was a glorious July Saturday amid a notoriously rainy summer. Although Plan B had been the Mansion House’s ample drawing room, we were able to use the arbour. As the ushers, my 15-year-old son Jack and nephew Tim, welcomed the guests, it was almost a relief when the registrar called me into the conservatory for the pre-ceremony interview (confirming your name and address is remarkably hard when a small family of frogs is leaping around in your thorax). Cometh the hour, our guests assembled in front of the arbour and the registrar announced the bridal party were approaching. My first glimpse of Cath was at the ceremony table. She looked utterly gorgeous, a vision in chiffon, and we whispered tender hellos in front of the registrar. As the ceremony flew by, we were both self-conscious yet proud. The ‘I Will’ moment was accompanied by a little gulp, while Dave performed his ring duties admirably (again, harder than you might think). Cue the “registry signing” photo opportunity. At this point newly-weds really experience what it must be like to be famous. Our photographer Mark Simmons treated us like

DETAILS Venue The Mansion House, Clifton Down, Bristol, BS8 3LJ T: 0117 903 1456 W: www. mansionhousebristol.co.uk

supermodels, clicking away from a hundred angles at once, cajoling the best angles and expressions from us. Throughout the day, he danced around the guests, catching priceless moments with children, friends and relatives of all generations. He perfectly captured Joe, our two-year-old, dressed in matching tails, who had rather let us down by sleeping soundly throughout the ceremony, but woke up in time for the photos, slightly bewildered and not completely sure who we were. The bridesmaids, Cath’s best friend Jo, her niece Katie and my daughter Caitlin, looked lovely in their mauve dresses, the focal point in our purple theme. Leaving the ceremony we passed the metallic blue classic Jaguar provided by Emma and Andrew at AJE Classics. It was my first glimpse of the splendid carriage that had delivered my bride so graciously to the door. Andrew had looked after Cath and her stepfather Ken with unhurried composure in those nervous minutes beforehand. Likewise, wedding outfitter Anne Harding had been splendid helping Cath choose the dress of her dreams, while Lee in the company’s grooms’ section had allowed us to suit and boot the male party without breaking the bank. The rest of the day was a happy blur, orchestrated wonderfully by our caterer, Fosters, who had been so helpful and attentive throughout the planning stage. They provided the cake, advised us on the order of the day and nagged us gently when we overran the schedule. Needless to say, the food was utterly delicious. Purple lavender bags and bunting, handsewn lovingly by Cath’s mum Ruth, finished the look, while Chris Morison’s bouquets and central table arrangement were enchanting.

Gown and Grooms’ Party Anne Harding, 9092 Shirehampton Road, Stoke Bishop, Bristol T: 0117 968 3074 W: www.anneharding.com Photography Mark Simmons T: 07778 063699 W: www.marksimmonsphotography.co.uk Car: AJE Classics T: 0117 956 3602 / W: www. ajeclassics.co.uk Catering Fosters W: www.fostersevents.co.uk Flowers Chris Morison T: 0117 950 6321 Design French Creative T: 07806 637587 W: www.french-creative.com Wishing Tree Inspiral Parties W: www. inspiralparties.com Band Gee Baby I Love You W: www.geebaby. co.uk Rickshaw Pedal Walla T: 0117 230 5080 W: www.pedalwalla.com

Everything was going to plan and Dave’s speech, far from the threatened extended blackmail note, was in fact really touching. Our band, Gee Baby I Love You, were simply fantastic – singer John Orme dragged Cath and I in front of the microphone to duet a perplexed version of ‘My Girl’, engaging friends and family in an animated conga at the end. Intent on a grand exit, we danced out to a waiting rickshaw, a low-tech but wonderfully romantic departure provided by Rick at Pedal Walla, enjoying a balmy summer evening as we reflected on a truly wonderful day. WEST WEDDINGS 27

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11/6/2012 11:27:50 AM

Realweddings

A relaxed and stylish

OCCASION Rebecca Oliver finds out more about Kate and Justin Sageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simple spring wedding at Wick Farm Barn.

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11/1/2012 5:26:08 PM

Realweddings

FAMILY AFFAIR Kate and Justins’ children Jago and Maisie were a big part of the day

chance encounter sparked off this couple’s romance. The pair bumped into each other in a bar in Bristol and hit it off straight away. Kate remembers: “Justin’s friends kept asking how we knew each other as it seemed as if we’d been friends for years!” Despite their instant connection, the first few dates were a little unusual. A speeding ticket, a bottle of wine and a lost wallet kept things lively. Justin found his wallet in his ski boot two weeks later. The rest, as they say, is history. The pair were away in London celebrating eight years together when Justin popped the question. After a rugby match, Kate and Justin headed for dinner at a jazz club. ‘Their’ song began to play and Kate said ‘yes’. After some deliberation, Kate and Justin fixed their date as the first of April 2012. They were no fools though, a day in the Easter holidays meant friends who teach and friends with families could join in with the celebrations. Kate made good use of the Easter idea, with baskets of mini-eggs as favours, and taking colour inspiration from them too! Their big day took place exclusively at Wick Barn Farm in Farleigh Hungerford, Bath. The couple had wanted a laidback and unassuming venue. Justin explains: “Wick Farm was the second venue we looked at and we both fell in love with it instantly. It ticked all of the boxes and more – a beautiful blank canvas.” The farm has two renovated barns and is surrounded by countryside so boasts some incredible views. It was the perfect no-fuss venue, a lovely setting with enough space inside and out. Kate found her stunning gown in The Mews Bridal Boutique at Clifton. She has nothing but praise for Gail and her team there: “They are so lovely and unpushy, and really make the experience of choosing and buying ‘the dress’ the best it can be. I had so many comments about the dress and felt it was the best style for me, and my shape.” The fitted taffeta dress had delicate lace sleeves and scalloped edging, just the thing for a more relaxed but very stylish ceremony. Justin was dapper in a black three-piece suit by Ted Baker, worn with a charcoal tie. Kate’s bridesmaids, her three best friends, wore chic lace dresses from French Connection in a muted oyster tone. Florist Maria Willcox at Sorori Design transformed the barn with gorgeous spring arrangements in sugary, pastel hues. Although the bridesmaids’ dresses weren’t finalised until a month

before the wedding, and Kate wasn’t sure what she wanted in terms of flowers, Maria worked wonders with the mini-egg theme. “The flowers were stunning, just the look and feel I’d described and so beautifully done. Rustic and simple with splashes of mini-egg colours,” says Kate. Vicki Bunn was the photographer for the day, producing some fantastic shots. She made the couple and their children feel at ease with a prewedding photo shoot beforehand. Kate and Justin really appreciated the time Vicki spent getting to know them. Kate describes Vicki as “lovely, really approachable” and says that on the day “she just mingled and took pictures without anyone noticing for ages!” On the day the happy couple were blessed with sunshine, no April showers. A flawless blue sky meant plenty of time for photographs outdoors, and a much more relaxed day. The trees were blossoming, and Kate thought the brilliant weather provided “an outdoor garden party feel”. Fun little details made their wedding unique: a red post box for cards and cake pops for dessert. Instead of a guest book, there was a wishing tree with luggage tags for guests to write messages on, and daughter Maisie drew a picture for the invitations. Groom Justin is a roofer so the couple incorporated slate into their wedding too, with arrow signs and fun slogan slates. Perfect personal touches. The couple had envisaged a day of “friends, family, love, laughter, food and fun”, and that’s exactly what they got. Kate and Justin’s children Jago and Maisie took on the roles of page boy and flower girl. A highlight for both bride and groom was their five-year-old daughter’s reading. Kate explains: “Maisie read a poem in the ceremony. She read it so, so well. It made nearly everyone cry and made us exceptionally proud parents.” It meant a lot to only child Kate that her father was able to give her away. “I’d dreamt of that moment for so long and couldn’t wait as I knew he’d be so proud,” says the bride. Family was important for this couple’s wedding. “It was faultless, the proudest day of my life,” says Justin. “What our little family created and achieved was way beyond my expectations.”

DETAILS Reception venue Wick Barn Farm, Farleigh Hungerford, Bath Photography Vicki Bunn: www.vickibunn.com Bride’s dress The Mews Bridal Boutique, Clifton, Bristol: www.themewsclifton.co.uk Groom’s outfit Suit and shoes by Ted Baker Flowers Maria Willcox at Sorori Design: www. sororidesign.co.uk Catering Strawberry Fields Catering: www. strawberryfieldcatering.co.uk

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11/1/2012 5:26:52 PM

Chepstow Showroom

28 High Street Chepstow NP16 5LJ Tel 01291 629 338 chepstow@allaboutevebridalwear.com

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11/2/2012 12:40:35 PM

Newport showroom

3 Clytha Park Road Newport NP20 4NZ Tel 01633 243 943 newport@allaboutevebridalwear.com www.allaboutevebridalwear.com

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11/2/2012 12:40:55 PM

~ Extensive range of stunning Bridal gowns ~ Bridesmaids dresses in 60 colours ~ Mother of the Bride outfits & headwear ~ Designers include Allure, Alfred Angelo & White One by Pronovias ~ Veils, shoes, jewellery & more ~ Affordable, quality, design

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67 Sandy Park Rd Brislington Bristol BS4 3PQ

11/6/2012 12:21:44 PM

2-1 DRESSES TIMELESS GRACE SARTORIAL STYLE INSPIRATION

gowns GownInspiration

CADILLAC

Sartorial STYLE Allison Jayne Bridal celebrates its Clifton location’s first birthday. Its fourth and newest store marks Allison Jayne Bridal’s 40th anniversary in business and continues to provide the finest levels of customer service. Its extremely knowledgeable bridal consultants will guide you through collections from award winning designers which include Maggie Sottero, Ian Stuart, Justin Alexander and Pronovias. Allison Jayne has also launched its new website for 2013, where you can view a small selection of its collections available in store online. It also features an accessories and bridesmaids section which will help you in coordinating your wedding theme. ALLISON JAYNE BRIDAL 47 QUEENS RD, THE TRIANGLE, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 1QQ T: 0117 934 9426 E: INFO@ALLISONJAYNE.COM W: WWW.ALLISONJAYNE.COM

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11/2/2012 12:13:25 PM

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11/6/2012 11:35:22 AM

10th February 2013

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69 High Street, Midsomer NortonBath, Somerset BA3 2QD Tel/Fax: 01761 416699 • www.solitairebrides.co.uk

Special Day & Appletons 12 High Street, Keynsham BS31 1DQ | 0117 9860303 / 9863582

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GownInspiration

Top of the CLASS

Show-stopping gowns are all in a day’s work for the staff at A Class Brides. Not only did they supply the gorgeous collection of gowns for our shoot at Ston Easton Park, they’re also sharing these pretty dresses by True Bride and Private Label by G. All of these dresses feature glittering detail, hints of lace and feminine fishtail skirts, ensuring you look sophisticated and stylish on your big day. A CLASS BRIDES 67 SANDY PARK RD, BRISLINGTON, BRISTOL, BS4 3PQ T: 0117 919 3007 E: ENQUIRIES@ACLASSBRIDES.CO.UK W: WWW.ACLASSBRIDES.CO.UK

TRUE BRIDE, STYLE W976

LABEL by G, STYLE 1437

LABEL by G, STYLE 1467

LABEL by G, STYLE 1484

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GownInspiration

ANNABEL

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GownInspiration

FLORA

SCARLET

Patience

REWARDED For brides hoping to find their perfect dress it can often be a waiting game, but they needn’t worry with shops like Solitaire Brides on their doorstep. Located in the heart of Somerset, Solitaire is conveniently placed for South West brides. Owner Lucy Carter has a background in dance and modelling, so it’s no surprise that the dresses she supplies have an elegant Hollywood air. Whether it’s classic lines, delicate capped sleeves or frothing layers of tulle, Solitaire Brides is sure to have the dress for you.

HAYLEY

SOLITAIRE BRIDES 69 HIGH ST, MIDSOMER NORTON, RADSTOCK, BA3 2DQ T: 01761 416699 E: LUCY.SOLITAIRE@TISCALI.CO.UK W: WWW.SOLITAIREBRIDES.CO.UK WEST WEDDINGS 39

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GownInspiration

URBINA

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GownInspiration

UGENA

Timeless GRACE

From embellished gowns with full skirts, long trains and belted waists to art deco beadwork, All About Eve has picked the prettiest fashions from bridal history so that you can look your best in a style that flatters. With designs from the likes of Justin Alexander, Sottero & Midgley and Ronald Joyce, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be hard pressed to pick just one. ALL ABOUT EVE 28 HIGH ST, CHEPSTOW, MONMOUTHSHIRE, NP16 5LJ T: 01291 629338 3 CLYTHA PARK ROAD, NEWPORT. NP20 4NZ T: 01633 243943 W: WWW.ALLABOUTEVEBRIDALWEAR.COM

JUSTIN ALEXANDER

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GownInspiration

It takes

TWO

Hannah Chapman speaks to Kerri Foster to find out why two dresses could be better than one.

hen Kate Middleton married her Prince Charming the wedding world stood still. Everybody wanted to see what she was wearing and the stunning Alexander McQueen gown, designed by Sarah Burton, did not fail to impress. But what impressed us even more was style savvy Kate’s decision to switch up her look from pleated lace to white satin with silver diamante at the waist, another Sarah Burton creation. Not only was the second dress another chance to showcase great British design, it was dancefloorfriendly too! Kerri Foster, owner of Annie Harding, says: “More and more brides have expressed their desire to wear two or more wedding dresses on their big day. This dilemma is making it difficult to decide on the dream gown. This is probably due to the huge amount of choice presented to brides.” It’s no wonder that brides are overwhelmed, with so many designers creating gowns to die for and with almost every taste being catered for. Gone is the idea that there is one perfect dress out there; instead brides are falling head over heels with one, two, even three dresses. And while Kate enjoyed the dancefloorfriendly option, for those brides not marrying a prince, it can be a little un-friendly for your wallet. “Although dresses vary in price, switching up your outfit from church to the reception can be very costly if it means buying two different gowns.” But it’s not all doom and gloom thanks to a clever collection by one of Anne Harding’s popular stockists, Essense, and their sister collection Martina Liana. “If you are a bride struggling with this problem, don’t worry, this is where the brilliance of two-in-one dresses comes in!” says Kerri. “They are popping up this season, from bridal runways, to wedding magazines, and in store right now at Anne Harding Weddings. These dresses provide two huge benefits: They spice up your bridal look without a tricky wardrobe change, and allow you to own two styles for the price of one.” Wearing a two-in-one dress gives you the option of going from long to short, changing the fabric of the dress, or adding extra layers if the evening is going to be chilly. “Accomplish your dream in an economical way and rest assured that the ‘wow factor’ of a two-in-one dress will be something everyone will be talking about on your wedding day!”

CONTACTS ANNE HARDING 90-92 SHIREHAMPTON ROAD, STOKE BISHOP, BRISTOL BS9 2DR T: 0117 968 3074 W: WWW.ANNEHARDING.COM

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grooms Grooms

CELEBRATION HOT TRENDS INSPIRATION

HERE A FEW OTHER THINGS YOU CAN DO TO MINIMISE WORRIES…

A CASE OF THE

WEDDING DAY SHAKES

Sophie Shorland provides her tips for nervous grooms.

or every groom there are a host of things to worry about as the big day approaches: will your bride avoid a meltdown when she finds her veil doesn’t match her shoes? Will you get through your vows without embarrassing fumbling? Will the two families manage to avoid killing each other? Oh, and of course there’s always the looming fear that the love of your life could go all ‘Runaway Bride’ and leave you stranded at the altar looking awkward in a tux. Some wedding day nerves are almost inevitable for every groom (even Prince William, who admitted to his knees knocking together at a rehearsal dinner last year). But for some it gets so bad that they suffer from insomnia, panic attacks, migraines and even

heart palpitations weeks before the wedding. There are, though, ways to ease fraught nerves, and everything from hypnotherapy to visualisation techniques come recommended to calm the anxious groom. However wacky they may sound, many of these techniques do undoubtedly help relieve tension on the big day; meditation is perhaps the most accessible way for many grooms to calm their nerves. Kumuda, who leads meditation at the Bristol Buddhist Centre, says that the effects “can be very immediate… depending on how traumatic their anxiety is”. On the day he suggests trying “deep breathing”, and to “relax, and notice that you’ve got a body”. If it gets too much, “maybe even go for a walk” and “stare at the blue sky if you’re a visual person”.

BREATHE CORRECTLY Breathe into your diaphragm, inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth, take longer to exhale than to inhale, and work on slowing the whole process down. Just focusing on breathing can take your mind off your worries and get you standing straight at the altar without fainting or running away. It is actually possible to buy gadgets that monitor your breathing and ensure your breaths are deep enough if you’re gadget-fixated, but the average groom is (probably) capable of monitoring his own breathing. CHOOSE YOUR BEST MAN WISELY Not just as someone who will plan a great stag night, but someone who can give you moral support on the day, take some the pressure off and give you a decent pep talk when it all gets too much and you start hyperventilating in a corner. LAUGH For centuries it’s been described as the best medicine, and a good laugh can relax your muscles for up to 45 minutes after. Kumuda emphasises the importance of others in the wedding party to calm you down. “Find the most chilled-out person you know and get them to make you laugh.” Hole up with them and avoid the people you know will contribute to your anxiety. DON’T RELY ON ALCOHOL TO SOLVE ALL OF YOUR PROBLEMS It may take the edge off, and some inebriation is expected, but you will probably want to remember at least part of the day. Being sick all over the maid of honour’s shoes also isn’t likely to go down well with any members of the wedding party. EAT A DECENT BREAKFAST AND DRINK PLENTY OF WATER This can help you relax and avoid a headache. Try not to smoke too much or drink too much coffee, as these can actually raise your stress levels, however much you may enjoy them at the time. TALK to your bride to be, your brother, your best man; sometimes you just need to let off some steam. Even writing down all the stuff that’s going on in your head can be cathartic. FACE THE FEAR Is there anything specific that’s making you feel like running for the hills? The first dance and your two left feet perhaps? Sort it out: book some dance lessons, get some training in public speaking or even practise your vows on tape. And, most importantly, remember that it’s just one day. It will probably pass far more quickly than you expect, and of course there are bound to be a few hiccups, but hopefully you can look back and laugh at them. Remember that all of your family and friends are there to support and celebrate with you. Enjoy it!. WEST WEDDINGS 43

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Grooms

Your Local outfitters will advise you on a range of looks from formal to suave.

FULLY Whether you’re Scottish or not, a kilt makes for a great wedding outfit, says Richard Duerden.

y first kilt came with two things: a great sense of pride and the stern admonishment from my mother that I wasn’t allowed to grow. Ever. It was a present for my 18th birthday and came not long after she had shelled out for my first tuxedo. I’d worn that to the school dance, and although smart, it didn’t sit right with me. One, it didn’t matter whether your tux was from the upper or more affordable end of the rack, the differences were imperceptible to us. Two, those wearing kilts to said event made more of an impression. The girls were fascinated; the teachers were impressed; the bar staff were friendlier. A kilt was the way to go. The kilt today is a long way from where it started, when it was known as a great kilt or belted plaid, and resembled something more like a toga. In the 1700s it slowly reduced into the small or walking kilt. With the addition of pleats instead of folds near the end of the century, it became what we know as the modern kilt. Pleats were a huge advantage, making it quicker to put on and easier to wear. Its cause was also helped by King George IV, who wore some spectacular versions on his visits to Scotland, and Queen Victoria, whose men were frequently dressed in kilts. In the South West, there are many companies that will provide Cornish tartan and kilt hire, but

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Grooms

These smart kilts from Slaters are available for hire and purchase

there are an equal number offering good Scottish kilt hire as well, such as Frocksandtails.co.uk and the ever reliable Moss Bros, who also offer tartan trews (trousers) for the not so brave. Frocksandtails offer hire at £90, while to buy from the same company costs around £1,000. It is often a nice idea to hire the kilt and major items, but buy the smaller items yourself so as to keep mementos of the day. Truly You Bridal, based in Thornbury, have kilts available for hire. Owner Lynne Lovell says: “Kilts offer a customary alternative to morning dress. Bringing traditional dress into the wedding theme not only allows the groom to honour their heritage but provides wonderful memories for life.” There are two ways to buy a whole kilt. If you’re in a hurry, then the big kilt shops like those along Canongate and

South Bridge in Edinburgh will do a great job (as will many shops in the South West): they have ready-made kilts in a variety of tartans that will fit you very well. If, however, you have the time, then I would recommend letting a company make one for you. Hand-woven cloth means that the kilt itself will fit you perfectly and be to your exact specification. It will also be precisely the tartan you want, avoiding any classic/historic/modern confusion (each clan has about five styles of tartan, each of which looks very different). The rest of the kilt attire will normally have a more off-the-shelf feel, but you’ll have a dizzying amount of choice. The six cornerstones of the kilt each come in a wide array of styles: THE JACKET Do you go for the classic Bonnie Prince Charlie jacket with its waistcoat, braided epaulettes and buttons everywhere? Or do you want something more traditional? A rich brown tweed jacket looks smart, whilst some prefer a simple grey jacket for a wedding, rather than black. THE SPORRAN Fur, faux or real, is always a good option, and is normally showy, with a more embellished clasp. The modern alternative is leather, with more compact asymmetric designs. Some more modern kilts come with pockets, but they are too casual for wedding attire. A sporran is much more appropriate. If nothing else, it will help to keep your dignity in windier conditions! The Sgian-Dubh A small dagger, worn in the sock, is now purely decorative. It may seem a little aggressive, but was originally a show of trust. One would remove the hidden weapon from the armpit

at the door, and instead wear it openly in the sock! Whilst it looks splendid and is legal under British law (when worn with national dress), wearing a knife in your sock may not be to everyone’s taste. THE KILT-PIN Unfortunately, the story that this originated in Queen Victoria’s brooch being used to pin down a soldier’s unruly kilt in a strong breeze is a myth – but it’s a good story to keep in your back sporran for parties! Nowadays most will be made from pewter, in designs of swords and thistles. SOCKS Comfortable, knee-high, cable-knit and held up with garters that match the tartan on your kilt, they are one of the only things which’ll make your legs look wonderful. It is almost impossible for a man’s legs to look bad in a kilt! BROGUES These are really dependent on the rest of the outfit, with brown more popular than the traditional black. If you’ve gone for a more modern suit jacket, then brown brogues will make sure you really stand out. It is, however, the established black ghillie brogues that will always be my favourites. As with most dress nowadays, kilts are taking a turn for the casual, with terms like sports-kilt and utilikilt creeping into the vernacular. I’m a supporter of the traditional, but begrudgingly admit that many of the newer styles are not without merit. The younger generations are proving that smart-casual can be done in a kilt, and just as pleats made kilts easier to wear, this experimentation is making the prospect less scary to many people. There is also something about the physical feeling of wearing a kilt that seems very Scottish, and very manly. With the breeze swirling around your legs, the coarse nature of the fabrics, you’re aware of how this outfit is connected to the countryside of the Scottish highlands. It feels very natural. No matter how much any man denies it, the first time he wears a kilt he’ll have a little ‘Braveheart’ moment. The kilt itself squeezes you upwards; you’re forced to stand straight; you feel that, for once, you look barrel-chested rather than keg-bellied. You look in the mirror and you’re impressed.

CONTACT TRULY YOU BRIDAL 15-17 ST MARY STREET , ST MARY SHOPPING CENTRE, THORNBURY, BRISTOL, BS35 2AB E LLOVELL@TRULYYOUBRIDAL.CO.UK T 01454 801 358 W WWW.TRULYYOUBRIDAL.CO.UK MARC WALLACE 8 EDGAR BUILDINGS, GEORGE STREET, BATH, BA1 2EE T 01225 466 155 W WWW.MARCWALLACE.COM FROCKS AND TAILS 39A COTHAM HILL, BRISTOL, BS6 6JY T 0117 9737461 W WWW.FROCKSANDTAILS.CO.UK

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ONLINE www.west-weddings.co.uk

For that little bit extra... You can now get even more from West Weddings by visiting our enhanced new look website. Finding what you need for your special day couldn’t be easier - with our online directory and easy to navigate sections. Check it out today!

VIEW IT ONLINE If you are loathe to lend your copy to friends and family, just point them in the direction of our website - not only can they view the latest edition online, but they can browse through our old copies, which means nobody has to miss out!

COMPETITIONS Entering our fantastic competition online is a piece of cake! Simply log on to www.westweddings.co.uk and click the competitions link to take you to the great free prize draw. You can enter with just a click of a button. This issue we have a dress worth £1,000 to win, from Special Day and Appletons.

PLANNING planning your day Need adviceDAY on where to start? If our handy YOUR

countdown and budget planner wasn’t enough, you can grab more helpful hints and ideas on speech planning, invitation etiquette, seating plans and much more.

46 west weddings

STOCKISTS If you’re ever in doubt of where you can pick up your next copy of West Weddings, just log on to our home page and select your area from the drop down list. It’s as easy as that!

ADDRESS BOOK Find what you’re looking for with minimum fuss. We’ve got everything you’ll need for your big day - and remember, it can all be found locally. Our directory even has a new search facility so you can go straight to what you’re looking for.

News

the essential...

Wedding

guide Use this page to plan your budget and organise the big day - without the stress of last minute panics.

budget planner I 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. 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. Hair and make-up. Bride and bridesmaids get dressed. The photographer arrives. Wedding transport arrives. Relax and enjoy the day!

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

estimated actual

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 west weddings 47

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Our autumn wedding PhotoWeddings

SHOWCASE

From

Russia with

Love ‘Anna Karenina’ comes to the West Country this winter in our photo shoot at the stunning Ston Easton Park. Annie Campbell relishes the Imperial splendour.. Words: Annie Campbell Photography: David Brewin

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PhotoWeddings

1 & 4 Sam looks regal in style 64003 by Ronald Joyce 2 Lev wears a black single breasted shawl collar dinner suit with black trafford waistcoat and ivory tie 3, 6 & 8 Lev’s suit is a white single breasted shawl collar dinner suit with black bow tie, Sam’s dress is Brittany by Annais

itting in the back of a taxi on a rainy Monday morning, the West Weddings editorial team were worried that the ominous weather might put an end to our ‘Anna Karenina’inspired winter shoot. But when we pulled up outside the breath-taking manor house we realised how wrong we had been. With furnishings fit for the Tsar of Imperial Russia, enough jewels to make a princess jealous and a gap in the rainclouds big enough for some gorgeous outside shots, this photo shoot couldn’t have gone any more smoothly.

THE VENUE

Ston Easton Park is an 18th-century manor house, tucked away in the stunning Somerset countryside. Beautiful both inside and out, it is an ideal location for a winter ceremony and would make a stunning backdrop for any wedding. The house dates back to the 1740s and is surrounded by 30 acres of parkland, with gardens landscaped by the great 18th-century landscape gardener Humphry Repton. When it comes to food, Ston Easton has earned its reputation and The Sorrel Restaurant is definitely something to look out for. Many of the ingredients used in its delicious meals are sourced from the hotel’s own Victorian garden. What could be more local than that?

MODELS

Our beautiful models, Sam and Lev, came from Shoot DHS Models, set up and run by the shoot’s art director David Hill-Souch. David said that what he really wanted to create was the fairytale-feel of Imperial Russia. Samantha, our female model, loved the big beautiful dresses she got to wear, her favourite being the vintage style created by the Louisa dress, teamed with birdcage hair piece. She also had lots of fun working with our male model Lev – who, believe it or not, had never done a photo shoot ➻

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PhotoWeddings

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11/2/2012 10:26:16 AM

PhotoWeddings 5 Sams jewellery and accessories provided by Bridezillas

Details PHOTOGRAPHER DAVID BREWIN T: 0845 4277847 M: 07977 126281 W: WWW.DAVIDJBREWIN.CO.UK VENUE STON EASTON PARK NR BATH, SOMERSET, BA3 4DF T: 01761 241631 W: WWW.STONEASTON.CO.UK E: EVENTS@STONEASTON.CO.UK MODELS AND ART DIRECTION SHOOT DHS, ODD DOWN LODGE, UPPER BLOOMFIELD ROAD, BATH BA2 2RU T: 07902 222369 W: WWW.SHOOTDHS.CO.UK ACCESSORIES BRIDEZILLAS, 18 HIGH STREET, KEYNSHAM, BRISTOL BS31 1DQ T: 0117 904 3039 W: WWW.BRIDEZILLAS.BIZ BRIDAL HAIR AND MAKE-UP HUSH HAIRDRESSING, 27-29 BALDWIN STREET, BRISTOL BS1 1LT T: 0117 930 0350 W: WWW.HUSHHAIRBRISTOL.CO.UK

5 before the day! Looking at the photographs, no one would guess that he was a beginner.

PHOTOGRAPHER

Our photographer on the day was David Brewin. On the ball from the very start, David knew exactly what he was doing and made everyone feel comfortable during the shoot. His attention to detail meant that every photo taken was well thought out and the composition was a real tribute to our location’s classic architecture. David says he doesn’t want any of his photographs to feel dated, so he tends to avoid adhering to the trends that come and go. He aims to create classic images that a couple can look back at on their ruby wedding anniversary and still feel as though they were taken yesterday.

DRESSES

The show-stopping dresses modelled by Samantha were hand-picked by Nikki from A Class Brides. She wanted dresses that embodied the drama and glamour of Imperial Russia,

and she achieved this with designs that boasted full skirts, diamante details and rich colours. In particular, the gorgeous red dress designed by Ronald Joyce, which Samantha says was one of her favourites, embodied the opulent allure of our chosen era, and is also available in ivory for brides who want a more traditional touch. Nikki says that “brides are looking for a touch of Hollywood glamour when shopping for wedding dresses, so fishtail styles are becoming increasingly popular, with birdcage veils as a must-have accessory”.

SUITS

We wanted our model Lev to look every bit as dashing as Count Vronsky himself. The suits were provided by Anne Harding, Bristol, who pulled out all the stops to ensure that Lev was dressed to impress. Lev’s favourite was the white jacket teamed with bow-tie and cane. With the recent release of the new James Bond movie, it won’t be a surprise if dashing combinations like this start to make a comeback for winter weddings this year. ➻

GROOM’S HAIR HUSH HAIRDRESSING, 27-29 BALDWIN STREET, BRISTOL BS1 1LT T: 0117 930 0350 W: WWW.HUSHHAIRBRISTOL.CO.UK FLOWERS CHRIS MORISON T: 0117 950 6321 M: 07828 975086 E: CHRISMORISON@LIVE.CO.UK PROPS BRISTOL VINTAGE T: 07791 898650 W: WWW.BRISTOLVINTAGE.CO.UK E: INFO@BRISTOLVINTAGE.CO.UK GOWNS A CLASS BRIDES 67 SANDY PARK RD, BRISLINGTON, BRISTOL, BS4 3PQ T: 0117 919 3007 W: WWW.ACLASSBRIDES.CO.UK E: ENQUIRIES@ACLASSBRIDES.CO.UK GROOM’S OUTFITS ANNE HARDING 90-92 SHIREHAMPTON RD, STOKE BISHOP, BRISTOL, BS9 2DR T: 0117 968 3074 W: WWW.ANNEHARDING.COM E: ENQUIRIES@ANNEHARDING.COM

CAKES PRETTY AMAZING CAKES T: 0117 924 3036 M: 07791 208754 W: WWW.PRETTYAMAZINGCAKES. CO.UK E: PRETTYAMAZINGCAKES@GMAIL.COM FAVOURS PIECE OF CAKE T: 0117 942 9516 M: 07710 270422 W: WWW.PIECEOFCAKEHQ.CO.UK E: INFO@PIECEOFCAKEHQ.CO.UK

WEST WEDDINGS 53

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PhotoWeddings

7 10

9 54 WEST WEDDINGS

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PhotoWeddings 7 & 14 Sam wears style 5571 by Ella Bridal 9, 10, 11, &13 Sams looks gorgeous in Louisa by Nicola Anne 10 &11 Lev wears traditional morning tails with a Rene silver waist coat and black tie 12 & 19 Flowers by Chris Morison designer florist.

11 HAIR AND MAKE-UP

Our models’ hair and make-up were done by stylists from Hush hairdressing in Bristol. Ria, who styled Samantha, wanted the make-up to be full-on and precise, to match the dramatic fashion of the period. She used a darker lip and nail colour to create a look with depth, and to add a touch of warmth to our winter theme. She then put Sam’s hair into a stunning up-do, which drew attention to the make-up and complemented the dresses and jewellery perfectly. “Higher hair is becoming much more popular with brides,” says Ria, and a lot of looks are now created using accessories, which add drama to a hairstyle. Hush is an organic-based salon, and Ria used a Moroccan oil shine spray on Sam’s hair. The make-up she used was from Bobbi Brown and Mac, with a Chanel lip. Lev was styled by Glenn, who went for shorter sides and back, with texture at the top and body running through the fringe.

JEWELLERY AND ACCESSORIES The jewellery and accessories were provided

by Amanda of Bridezillas. Knowing that ‘Anna Karenina’ was our theme, she wanted to provide sparkling statement pieces that would create all the drama of Imperial Russia. She says it was fun to go all out with the jewellery and team so many statement pieces together, as she isn’t usually allowed to do so! That said, balance was extremely important to her, and she took the time to make sure that each item complemented the dress that was being modelled, as well as the other pieces that were being worn. She says that at the moment a lot of brides are looking for vintage-inspired pieces with a 1920s theme in mind, just like the ‘Great Gatsby’ shoot she styled for us this summer.

FLOWERS

Designer florist Chris Morison created our stunning bouquets and flower arrangements. He wanted to evoke a sense of extravagance and elegance by using large, luscious blooms in rich colours. The roses he used added a

sense of tradition to the shoot; he also created stunning designs with exotic orchids and anthuriums. For Chris, it is the attention to detail that matters. He says that couples these days want bespoke designs that are tailored to their own personalities and individual needs. When he makes arrangements, he likes to keep the whole picture in mind, and he makes sure that, together with dress, bride and venue, his bouquets will add the perfect finishing touch to any wedding photograph.

CAKE

Our beautiful cake was created by Anne Gliddon from Pretty Amazing Cakes. She says that she was immediately inspired by the romance of ‘Anna Karenina’ and ➻ WEST WEDDINGS 55

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14 PhotoWeddings

15 4 tier cake by Pretty Amazing Cakes. 16 & 17 Bristol Vintage provided vintage china, Pretty Amazing Cakes provided Victoria sponge and lemon drizzle cakes. 17 Vintage hot chocolate spoons from Piece of Cake. 18 Stunning up-do styled by Hush.

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15 wanted to create a cake inspired by the fashion of the period. “When designing the cake I wanted to achieve an opulent look, ornate but elegant and not overly fussy. I aimed for a vintage look, covering the tiers of the cake using a decorative sugar lace technique with icing, and the glimmer of pearls and diamante in the form of a stunning broach.” This vintage-inspired look is becoming increasingly popular at weddings, says Anne. “Floral decorations are hugely popular and I make a lot of cakes with hand-crafted keepsake flowers that can be saved by the bride as a reminder of her wedding day.” Anne also provided us with two cakes to eat on the day, and these went down very well with the team. Lev said that the lemon drizzle cake was “gorgeous”, and Samantha joked that she’d need another slice of each to decide which one tasted better!

TABLE SETTINGS

Our fabulous table was styled with vintage tableware courtesy of Ali Cook, the lovely lady behind Bristol Vintage. Her inspiration was the cold, dramatic atmosphere of Imperial Russia, and she wanted to find the most

glamorous pieces available, saying she was after “more glamour than country” for this shoot. We have worked with Ali on shoots in the past. Who could forget our decadent ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’ extravaganza which included a table laden with the finest vintage china? She never fails to impress. As well as crockery, Bristol Vintage has a wide selection of props and tableware available for hire.

FAVOURS

The favours were provided by Leanne from Piece of Cake, who used a contrast of dark and light colours, lace and pearls to create lovely keepsakes to fit our theme. Favours are an increasingly popular trend at weddings, and are an easy way of making your day personal. They are particularly popular among the girls, as a lot of brides want their bridesmaids and female guests to have something that they can take home and remember their special day by. Favours, such as the Vintage Hot Chocolate Spoons, can also double up as place names, making them useful as well as beautiful!

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Arrive in style with a

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MARK SIMMONS PHOTOGRAPHY Tel: 0117 9140999 Mobile: 07778 063 699

Natural Weddings “Mark Simmons has both the skilled eye and craftsmanship to make your wedding album come alive every time you turn the pages. Frozen action and classic art are merged to create an emotional trip down memory lane. Mark’s documentary style is energy filled, fun and delivered with an ever reassuring calmness for even the most camera shy family member. Moreover, Mark is a joy to work with and has a winning formula.” Tina and Garry Tabor

www.marksimmonsphotography.com

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CAKES VEILS DETAILS PHOTOGRAPHY

Photos from our own shoots with David and some of the beautiful weddings he’s captured

Ooh, what a

PICTURE

Rebecca Oliver speaks to photographer David Brewin about the value of great photography and his top tips for brides and grooms. Why would you say photography is such an important part of a wedding? It’s after that the photography comes into its own. There is this cliché about wedding photography being important ‘after the confetti has fallen and the band has struck its last chord’, but there is some truth to it. When the couple are back from their honeymoon and settled into normal married life, one thing that’s left is the photographs. They’re one of the only tangible things you’ll have to evoke those memories you want to keep for years to come, and they can be passed down for generations. The atmosphere of the wedding is lost if it’s not done well. Why is it so crucial for couples to find a photographer they click with? When you’re in front of the camera lens it can put the fear of god into you! If there’s a rapport, the couple will be really relaxed in front of the camera on the day, and the result of that is better photographs. How do you connect with the couples you photograph? There are a number of things we do. We have an initial meeting and a planning meeting to understand what they’re going to be prepared to do, or not. There’s no way in the world that I would ask a bride or groom, or member of their wedding party, to do something they weren’t comfortable with. On the day we don’t get in their faces. Often

on their photo shoot we’re actually a distance away. We don’t give too much direction, we want naturallooking images, and that’s ultimately what the bride and groom want too. Be a little bit distant; let them have their space; let them enjoy the moment. Some of them are prepared to have a lot of fun, sit in a tree or have piggybacks, and be very comfortable with each other. Ideally they can, whilst we’re a distance away, enjoy an intimate moment. We’ll capture that. We just light the touch paper, and then see what happens. What should a bride be looking for in her wedding photographer? Somebody she feels will listen to her ideas, understand them and be able to portray them. It’s important that the photographer can be flexible and creative enough to do that on the day, regardless of the weather and within the time constraints. On a typical eight-hour wedding day, you only get about half an hour with the bride and groom. There are other elements of the day to be captured, you want to build in time for the bride and groom to relax with their guests. That’s when we’ll take lovely reportage shots. Digital cameras these days are great. If you’ve got a beautiful bride and groom on a sunny day with lovely light, most people could get a great picture. The challenge is to make sure we still provide brilliant results when it’s chucking it down and we have to improvise indoors, or the light outside is overcast.

What other advice do you have for brides about their wedding photography? Weddings are expensive and it’s easy to get carried away with all sorts of extras. However, there are some things that could be considered to reduce the cost. For example, one tradition is to give the mothers of the bride and groom a lovely bouquet of flowers each. Perhaps give them a beautiful framed print of the day Photography has become quite undervalued. It’s not just the eight or ten hours on the day that you’re paying for. There are meetings beforehand with the couple, sometimes at the venue too, and then the editing process afterwards. The editing process for the average wedding takes about a week. To get brilliant results there’s an awful lot of work that goes on behind the scenes. If that’s what a couple are paying for, that is absolutely what they should get. My advice to brides is to consider getting the best that they can, and not to base their decision on the price alone. The trend these days is to keep images on your computer. I’ve heard it said that this decade may become known as the decade of lost images. A great wedding album can be passed down for generations.

CONTACT DAVID J BREWIN PHOTOGRAPHY T: 0845 4277847 M: 07977 126281 E: INFO@DAVIDJBREWIN.CO.UK W: WWW.DAVIDJBREWIN.CO.UK

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CENTRE PIECE TABLE IDEAS FROM WWW.BEFORETHEBIGDAY.CO.UK

E, AND G A T R O P E R , S IT U S IN S E LOVING: BRID BOLD GRAPHIC DESIGNS

Our waspish queen of style Sharon Diamond looks at what’s in and what’s out this season.

Bianca Jagger and wear a suit to your wedding. If you’re not interested in going quite that non-traditional, consider a white dress with a pencil skirt and a smart cropped jacket over the top. Funky wedding invites and save-thedates If you haven’t figured it out by now, any element of your wedding that screams “people have been doing it this way since my grandmother’s wedding” should be avoided like the plague. This goes for invitations and save-thedates as well. Ditch the blotting paper and multiple inner envelopes and go for a bold, graphic design that gives invitees a taste of the atmosphere they can expect at your wedding.

‘Gardo’ from The Jazz Age Collection by Stephanie Allin

BOLD INVITATIONS: WWW.HELLOTENFOLD.COM

essert tables Choose a dry, white, fondant-draped tiered cake for your wedding – if you want to put your guests to sleep. These days, on-trend brides are opting for dessert tables with a combination of cakes, candies and, yes, even cupcakes. Instead of leaving your guests bored with their options, give them choice, and choose desserts that complement your colour scheme! Informal photography Stiff, formal, traditional wedding photography will only serve to leave you remembering your wedding as a stiff, formal, traditional event instead of the fun and wonderful time that it actually was. Choose a photographer who specialises in reportage-style photography. To bolster your wedding photo album, also ask for a pre-wedding shoot so that you have time to travel to a fun location and bring props. Whatever you do, make sure you hire a photographer who will capture your personality. Unique centrepieces Candelabra and white roses? Snooze. Adorn your tables with props that go along with your theme (a vase with branches for guests to hang notes on, a vintage typewriter, a water-filled vase with halved lemons – let your imagination go wild!). Avoid insipid and expensive tradition and create wedding décor that your guests will be sure to remember. Suits and non-traditional dresses Haven’t you heard? The 70s are in. So pull a

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oring colours and colour pairings Chocolate brown and Tiffany blue, red and black, pink and more pink, silver and white – if you’re now worried that I broke into your house at night and found your list of potential colour schemes, burglary should be the least of your fears. For the past decade these colours have been done, done and OVERdone. For a unique and classy colour pairing, find a bold colour and match it with a nuanced shade of its complement. Hunt down a pantone colour book or something similar and explore the wide and wonderful world of hues. Bridesmaid’s dresses You heard me: bridesmaid’s dresses are so out. Let’s face it. No matter how many times you say “…and you’ll even be able to wear it again!” you’re in denial. A bridesmaid’s dress is spottable to any female with decent vision from 100 miles away. Forget these bridal shop inventions that will only collect dust after the wedding, and let your

Above: Stack rings by Clare Chandler at This gown Clifton Rocks,would whichbe a pretty alternative to dated Satin

SES,

ING DRES H C T A M , ’S J D Y S E E H C : LOATHING TIRED COLOUR STORIES

bridesmaids choose their own dresses, either of the same colour or different ones to reflect their own sense of style. If you’re worried about continuity, tie the bridal party’s look together with shared accessories such as a necklace, bracelet or simply the bouquet. Disco reception A DJ playing cheesy tunes such as ‘I Will Survive’ and ‘Dancing Queen’ is enough to make you want the ground to swallow you up. Weddings aren’t about the cringe factor this autumn. Live music is always a joy to listen to and will get everyone in the dancing mood. Satin Like the trend of strapless dresses, the wedding world has left behind its love of satin for dresses. It gives off an all-too prom-y air that you don’t want on your wedding day. Opt instead for chiffon or funky cotton cut-out. Flower bouquets Yes, this may be tradition, but the beauty of living in a world where Etsy and Pinterest fill our lives is the opportunity to have a bouquet made out of different materials such as brooches, sheet-music rosettes or fabric flowers. Indulge!

Out

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A natural

FINISH Hannah Chapman talks all things bright and beautiful with milliner Lisa Von Hallwyl.

Millinery is my passion. I specialise in creating exciting, bespoke and original designs with an organic twist inspired by nature. All of my designs incorporate beautiful floral and natural themes that will make you stand out from the crowd. I create headwear that will make you feel special and beautiful, completing your outfit and making you look sensational!

Lisa Von Hallwyl Millinery For more information or to arrange an appointment please contact Lisa T: 07738 223791 E: lisavonhallwyl@hotmail.com www.lvhdesigns.co.uk

ith roots firmly entrenched in design, it’s no surprise that Lisa Von Hallwyl’s hats are such a work of art. Lisa studied Fashion and Textiles at the Winchester School of Art before receiving an MA in Costume Design from the Bournemouth Arts Institute, and cut her teeth working with Vivienne Sherriff, a Salisbury-based milliner whose creations have been worn by the Duchess of Cambridge. After a break Lisa returned to the industry. “After my own wedding I wanted to focus on bridal fashion but, in particular, millinery,” she says. “So I quit my job and now design and make my hats full time.” Lisa says her inspiration never comes from magazines. “I look out the window or go for a walk. It all comes from nature. You see the colours of the leaves changing and cannot help but be inspired. In a recent collection I used quills to represent long flower stems with other little elements of nature, like the butterflies resting on them.” But as well as looking outside, Lisa is also looking to the future and thinking of her designs: “My next collection is actually inspired by birds, so I’m using a lot of feathers.” An exciting development for Lisa is branching into cake decorating. She has been working closely with wedding cake designers, using the butterflies seen in her hats. But icing won’t be replacing hats any time soon. “Silk is my favourite material to work with. There are lots of different types, it moulds into different shapes

This feminine silver hat is Lisa’s favourite from this collection

beautifully, and you can dye it so many different colours. It’s very versatile. I especially love the raw quality of dupion.” Lisa is currently stocked in Feva Designs (Cheltenham), Cotswolds Bridal, Grand Jeu, or of course you can contact Lisa directly, she’d love to hear from you.

CONTACT LISA VON HALLWYL T 07738 223791 E LISAVONHALLWYL@HOTMAIL.COM

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The Bridal Make-up & Hair Room Bridal make-up & hair by BBC make-up designer Call Sue on 01225 444 769 07774 791 210 suebide@aol.com

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At PoC HQ we aim to provide high quality favours, which really add something special to your day. Most of our products can be personalised with details like names, dates, venue, messages...really adding a unique element to your wedding.

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Friendly / experienced / helpful / professional staff that will take the stress away from you.

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REEL WEDDINGS

Charlotte Le Loché counts down her top ten most memorable silver-screen weddings.

e Britons love a good gossip, and when weddings don’t run as smoothly as they should – which not only happens in reality but movies too – we love to chatter about it. Here is a brief overview of some of the most memorable wedding film moments, in no particular order. SEX AND THE CITY (2008) It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for: the wedding of Carrie and Big. But who would have expected a no show from Big? This results in a spectacular but heart-wrenching scene which unravels in the street when they pass each other in separate cars. Kudos to Charlotte for trying to be fierce while unable to walk properly in her tight fishtail dress. The Graduate

MY BEST FRIEND’S WEDDING (1997) What a cliché moment when Julianne (Julia Roberts) gets the man she loves, who also happens to be her best friend, at his wedding … Or does she? The turn of events which unfolds after their intimate kiss ends up leaving Julianne defeated and having to wish the happy couple well as their wedding goes ahead. FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL (1994) Rowan Atkinson’s superb performance as a firsttime vicar for one of the ceremonies, Hugh Grant confessing at the altar that he doesn’t want to marry Duckface, the kiss in the rain with Andie MacDowell… an absolute wedding film classic. THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN – PART 1 (2011) One of the most anticipated weddings since Kate and Wills’s Royal shindig – even Bella’s

Above Bridesmaids Left Wedding Daze Below Wedding Crashers

dress was kept a secret. The unveiling of this event begins with Bella having a nightmare about the nuptials, where the bride and groom are covered in blood standing on top of all their dead guests… not a good start to your wedding day! BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM (2002) A more unusual movie to pick, but it follows the life of Jesminda, whose sister’s wedding plans provide the context for her struggles against her family’s reluctance to let her play football. One of the most outstanding moments has to be when her friend’s mum declares that Jesminda is a lesbian in front of the whole marriage procession.

BRIDE WARS (2009) Liv and Emma have been dreaming of their perfect weddings since they were little girls, but things go awry when they accidentally book the same venue on the same day! Of course a double wedding would have solved all their problems, but who are we to judge? There’s scheming galore in this bridal buddy movie.

BRIDESMAIDS (2011) When a wedding becomes a power-struggle it’s friendships that suffer most, as bride-to-be Lillian discovers first-hand. Childhood friend Annie tries her best to retain her role as Maid of Honour while newest gal pal Helen tries to steal the limelight. Chaos ensues and delivers one of the most horrifying scenes to take place in a Bridal Salon. Ever. THE SOUND OF MUSIC (1965) With non-traditional wedding music and the sound of nuns singing ‘How Do You Solve a Problem like Maria’, this movie leaves its mark. And that’s not to mention Maria’s stunning gown, with possibly the longest train you’ve ever seen. THE GRADUATE (1967) It’s a classic romantic movie moment: Dustin Hoffman’s character breaks up a wedding to run off with his dream girl, only then to have the ultimate “what are we going to do now?” scene.

Above The Wedding Planner Left bride Wars

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This year’s ‘must-have’ hair product for winter brides is Moroccanoil Frizz Control, as recommended by HUSH. If you’re looking forward to a winter wedding, dreams of sparkling frost and romantic champagne toasts in front of a roaring log fire can be overshadowed by concerns over your hair falling prey to the harsh winter weather we often experience here in the UK. Moroccanoil Frizz control is an anti-frizz spray that contains argan oil, which moisturises and enhances shine and keratin, which repairs and strengthens hair. It’s suitable for natural, dry, curly or straight hair, eliminates frizz and controls static whatever the weather, and keeps hair smooth, calm, manageable and glossy.

Winter winds aren’t all catchy lyrics and handsome folk singers, they can be a real nuisance this time of year, drying out your skin and leaving you looking pink and pale in all the wrong places. If you’re on the lookout for some serious moisturising, then look no further. Emollience by SkinCeuticals is ideal for high altitudes and cold or dry climates. Enriched with three nutrient-rich Brazilian sea algae and oils of grape seed, rose hip and macadamia seed, Emollience deeply nourishes the skin and helps restore and maintain moisture throughout the day.

RECOMMENDED AND SOLD BY HUSH HAIRDRESSING, 2729 BALDWIN STREET, BRISTOL. T 0117 930 0350 E INFO@ HUSHHAIRBRISTOL.CO.UK W WWW. HUSHHAIRBRISTOL.CO.UK

BEAUTY BIBLE 4

Team a nude lip with statement eyes. This nude lipstick, another favourite by LCN, is moisture rich and adds just the right amount of colour. Keeping your lips simple will ensure that everyone’s eyes are on yours. RRP: £11.45 AVAILABLE AS BEFORE.

RRP: £53, 50ML, AVAILABLE FROM WWW. SKINCEUTICALS.COM

Get the look! Tips and products to recreate our ‘Anna Karenina’-inspired shoot.

We’re loving statement nails this season and these great colours by LCN hit the spot. LCN is launching Urban Expression, a mix of gorgeous grey, green and rosewood shades for daytime. The collection comprises of polishes in nude, green and grey. We loved Tokyo Expression and New York Beat. There are two lipsticks in nude and rosewood and two lip-glosses in beige velvet and rose couture. RRP: £5.50 AVAILABLE FROM WWW.BEAUTYCONCEPTS.CO.UK/ DIRECT

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BeInspired Lick the bowl clean! This mixture is just too good to waste!

LET THEM EAT

cake

Is it possible to make an indulgent wedding cake that’s suitable for people on a restricted diet? It most certainly is, says gluten-free bride-to-be Rachel Barnett.

ot long after the proposal (epic, romantic, perfect), my thoughts turned, unsurprisingly, to food, and specifically to cake. Along with increasing numbers of other people, I am on a restricted diet, and mine is more restrictive than many: gluten free, dairy free, no nuts and limited sugar. So you don’t have to be Delia to work out that this can make the subject of cakes a sticky one. In my opinion, whichever other parts of wedding traditions are optional, wedding cake is essential. Towering five stories high, beautiful pearly white icing, sparkly frosting, cute little bride and groom figurines made from sugar, fresh flowers around the stand, surrounded by our family and friends, standing there with my new husband, his hand on top of mine as together we hold the knife and slice down into a dreamy Victoria sponge with buttercream filling oozing from the sides, or rich sultana-laden fruitcake, or moist melting dark chocolate cake, or lemon cake, or marble cake, carrot cake, maybe a meringue, marzipan, cream ...

And so to achieve my wedding cake fantasies within the limitations of my diet I knew I’d need to be creative. Because, let’s face it, gluten-free, dairyfree, reduced-sugar cakes generally – well, they can be a bit dry, or simply ridiculously expensive. Just as I was wondering which direction to take on the journey to wedding cake perfection, one of my closest friends, Deborah, also gluten free, and her mum stepped into the frame and very kindly offered (as their gift to us) to make our wedding cake. As they are superb bakers and we were keen to invite friends to contribute to our wedding in any way they wanted (except through the medium of drunken karaoke), we accepted their offer (on the proviso that I got to come along and ‘help’ – which, to be completely honest, mostly involved licking the bowl out and repeating over and over again, “I’m getting married” in a rare sugar-fuelled craze until I was given a glass of water and ordered out of the kitchen). We decided on individual cupcakes on a beautiful clear cake stand, with an oversized cupcake on top for slicing. That way we’d minimize potential

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BeInspired Rachel adds the finishing touches to her cakes

Gluten-free cake Doves Farm suggests this easy-to-follow recipe INGREDIENTS 150g butter 150g caster sugar 2 drops vanilla extract 2 eggs 1 tsp baking powder 150g gluten-free plain white flour 3 tbsps milk (soy milk works perfectly) 3 tbsps jam 1 tsp icing sugar

for dryness and also meant that there could be a mixture of ‘normal’ and ‘special diet’ cakes. After a lot of tasting sessions we settled on a simple Victoria sponge cupcake with ivory buttercream icing. Gluten-free flour (Doves Farm), with a little extra xanthum gum added in, saw that the mixture was as light as fluffy as normal cakes – it was virtually impossible to tell any difference. A slight reduction in sugar was also unnoticeable due to the lashings of buttercream icing. (And here, to be honest, my reduced-sugar intentions did go slightly awry – who can resist buttercream, especially on their wedding cake?) Once the base of the cakes was sorted, we turned our attention to decoration. Placed in vintage-style ivory lace cupcake wrappers and topped with edible sparkles, ice-blue sugar hearts and white sugar snowflakes gave just the right ‘winter wonderland’ effect that we were after. At the time of writing this article I haven’t seen the finished cake yet, but I’m certain that the final piece will be the perfect culmination of my glutenfree wedding cake dreams!.

METHOD Cream the butter, sugar and vanilla together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Beat in the baking powder, flour and milk. Divide the mixture between two oiled and lined 20cm/8” round baking tins. Bake in a pre-heated oven for 15/20 minutes. Turn the cakes out on to a wire rack to cool. Spread jam on top of one sponge and place the other on top. Dust the top with sieved icing sugar.

FLOUR POWER TOP TIPS FOR MAKING A GLUTEN-FREE (AND/OR EGG- AND DAIRY-FREE WEDDING CAKE)

• Use a good gluten-free flour blend. • Good china mixing bowls and a brilliant blender make all the difference to a nice light sponge. • Xanthum gum is a great raising agent – but too much of it and the cake can taste a little soapy. • Sift the flour through a sieve to keep the mixture finer. • Use a bit more butter than you would do normally. • If you, or a friend, is making your cake – it’s fine to make in advance and freeze. Just remember to ice them once the cakes are defrosted!

JUST DESSERTS ALTERNATIVES TO THE WEDDING CAKE

Should you really step away from the cake idea, there are any number of other centerpiece desserts: Massive rounds of cheese piled on top of each other and laden with fruits. A profiterole tower, known as croquembouche A number of differently flavoured savoury pies A big tower of delicate pastel-coloured macaroons Wobbling jellies in bright colours A stunning Belgian chocolate fountain which your guests can dip fruit and marshmallows into Or how about something completely different and having an incredible ice sculpture of a cake?

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BeInspired Top from left to write vintage styling courtesy of Kirsten Butler aka The Little Wedding Helper

CREDIT FRANCES TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY

TABLE SETTINGS

Reading between

THE LINES Charlotte Le LohĂŠ takes a look at how you can achieve a literature-themed wedding.

Take inspiration from your favourite books or literary characters, and name your tables after them. Use old-fashioned library index cards as a template for place cards. For centrepieces, stack books in the middle of the tables, tied with ribbon and twined with flowers and ivy, or check out the amazing book vase tutorial on Ruffled (www.ruffledblog.com/diy-tuesdayvintage-book-vases).

VOWS If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re having trouble composing your vows, literature could be your saviour. Pick a couple of your favourite quotes from novels, or fall back on some good old Shakespearean love sonnets.

INVITATIONS Think about styling them in the form of pages from a book. To make them look aged, have a go at the tea dipping trick. Or use an iconic book cover such as the orange Penguin classic as the template for your invitation.

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CONFETTI Instead of buying any old confetti from a shop, take a shaped cutter to a few old books and, ta da, you’ll have literary confetti!

CAKE Design it to resemble your favourite book, or have it inscribed with a hand-piped poem or significant quote which means a lot to you and your partner. Or how about iced Scrabble tiles on individual cupcakes?

LOCATION Copy Carrie in the ‘Sex and the City’ film and hold your wedding in a library. Clevedon Hall, Goldbrick House and Hotel Du Vin have licensed libraries that are perfect for your ceremony.

Left Library inspired table settings from Editor Helens own literary wedding. Right More styling from The Little Wedding Helper

RINGS Instead of a cushion or a pocket to keep them safe, cut out a heart-shaped hole in a book to carry the rings.

GUEST BOOK Take an old hard-backed book with a beautiful cover, and paste paper over the pages to create a blank canvas for your guests’ messages.

WEDDING FAVOURS Keep it simple with pinwheels made out of pages of books or bookmarks customised with the date of your wedding.

Above These scrabble tile cufflinks are from Crimson Inking on Etsy. Below Shakespeare confetti is available from Callmeloretei on Etsy.

CONTACT CLEVEDON HALL VICTORIA RD, CLEVEDON, NORTH SOMERSET BS21 7RQ T: 01275 795895 W: WWW.CLEVEDONHALL.CO.UK HOTEL DU VIN THE SUGAR HOUSE, NARROW LEWINS MEAD, BRISTOL BS1 2NU T: 0117 925 5577 W: WWW.HOTELDUVIN.COM/HOTELS/BRISTOL GOLDBRICK HOUSE 69 PARK ST, BRISTOL BS1 5PB T: 0117 945 1950 W: WWW.GOLDBRICKHOUSE.CO.UK

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BeInspired

JOYCE)B PIC CREDIT RAINBOW CLUB ( JAMES

Thinly

VEILED Long, short or not at all – Kate Hacker and Sophie Shorland look at the options available when it comes to choosing a bridal veil.

veil is the ultimate bridal accessory. While jewellery, matching shoes and even tiaras are accessories you may find at other formal occasions, a veil is a once-in-a-lifetime embellishment. When making your choice, there are a nearlyoverwhelming number of options, ranging from the length to the type of edging. It is also important to make sure that your veil works well with the dress you choose – not upstaging it, but complementing it and drawing attention to your face. Cherie, manager at Allison Jayne in Clifton, also mentions colour as something worth thinking about: “We would usually match a white veil with a white dress, or an ivory veil to an ivory gown.” Most of all, however, it’s important to choose something that you feel comfortable in. As Cherie puts it: “At the end of the day it’s the bride’s choice.” Wedding

dresses and veils are, after all, designed to make you feel beautiful. Here are some top tips for choosing the perfect veil for your wedding day… LENGTH The question of veil length is more complicated than it might appear. Veil options range from birdcage (a visor-style veil attached to a headpiece that covers a small amount of your face) to cathedral-length (traditionally measuring approximately 132 inches and trailing on the floor behind your dress). Keep in mind your venue when deciding on your veil. If you intend to have an outdoor wedding, you may want a simpler, less formal veil that will avoid trailing on the ground. That said, celebrities like Reese Witherspoon have broken that rule by wearing a full-length cathedral veil at a wedding on a ranch.

Cherie recommends “a 72-inch veil” as the best length, which will just reach to your fingertips and “goes with most dresses”, falling below the significant detailing around the neck and bust many dresses are provided with. If your favourite part of the gown, however, is a gorgeous plunging back or fantastic lacing or detail, opt for a birdcage veil, which will leave the back of your dress uncovered for all to see. Finally, look for a veil that will flatter the shape of your face. A birdcage veil will provide width, as will a shoulder-length veil, while a longer veil will help elongate the face. Keep these principles in mind when deciding whether or not to opt for a blusher – a portion of the veil that covers the face. When pulled back after that breath-taking first kiss, it may emphasise your face’s width. TRIMMING Trimming, like length, can either add to or detract from the details on your gown. Crystal-beaded edging may match well with a simple chiffon gown with similar embellishments. Ribbon trimming, on the other hand, may suit a satin gown. Lace trimming definitely requires a dress that can stand up to bold accessorising. A sleek dress with few sparkly details will be well matched to a beautiful lace-trimmed veil. MATERIAL The most popular veil materials are silk tulle and nylon tulle, though birdcage veils achieve their unique look through the use of millinery net. Unless you opt for a birdcage veil, the decision between silk and nylon may be a tough one. While silk may sound more luxurious, some experts suggest that nylon behaves better and also adds less weight, which is an important consideration if you plan to wear a delicate hairstyle. VENUE One question you may be asked while shopping for your veil is whether or not you plan to wear it during the reception, or whether you would like to have a different veil altogether for that. Brides are split between those who intend to enjoy every moment of wearing this unique accessory, and those who plan to remove it for the sake of comfort and convenience when they celebrate late into the evening. As long as you know what your priorities are the decision should be fairly easy. NO VEIL While veils have been a stalwart tradition for many years (the first evidence of veiling comes from 13th century BC Assyria, while it’s thought the bridal veil was popularised in England during the reign of Elizabeth I), many modern brides are rethinking the entire concept of a veil. If you find yourself frustrated and unenthused by the process of choosing a veil, consider going without. A veil is meant to flatter and add to your confidence on your big day. If it fails to do this for you, feel no guilt in leaving it by the wayside. This doesn’t mean, of course, that you need be any less accessorised. If you opt out of the veil tradition, here is your opportunity to choose an eye-catching hairpiece that would be too bold if worn with a veil. You can also use the lack of a veil as a chance to be more creative in choosing your hairstyle. When anchoring a veil is no longer part of the equation, you are free to choose an elaborate, daring and bold hairstyle that will bring every guest’s attention to your face.

CONTACT ALLISON JAYNE 47 QUEENS RD, BRISTOL BS8 1QQ T: 0117 934 9426 W: WWW.ALLISONJAYNE.COM

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s ing n e v e E 9pm s a c how 6pm – S g din d from e 3 w 1 two st 20 g n 1 i hav h & 3 e r a 7t We uary Jan

A Day To Remember Mercure Bristol North, The Grange Hotel Congratulations on your forthcoming wedding! The Grange Hotel will be there for you every step of the way during this important and exciting time, to assist you with all your wedding needs and to ensure it is the wonderful day you dream of. This elegant country hotel, dating back to 1851, is set in 18 acres of attractive grounds, creating the perfect setting for your wedding. The Grange Hotel sits in beautiful gardens and really is the perfect backdrop for your wedding photographs. Why not have a string quartet on the lawn or a barbeque in the old English gardens, the possibilities are endless.... Facilities available to you: • Dedicated Wedding Consultant • Max capacity for civil ceremony: 150 • Max capacity for reception: 150 • Max capacity for evening reception: 180 • Civil wedding licence • 68 bedrooms • Four poster bed • Complimentary changing room for the bride • Beauty treatments • Sebastian Coe Health Club • Landscaped gardens • Free car parking for 150 cars

For more information or to book a viewing please call on 0844 815 9063 or email us at 063cs@jupiterhotels.co.uk www.mercurebristol.co.uk p71.indd 1

Special £3,000 offer on selected dates up until end of 2013 Your £3,000 package gives you... • A Reception drink to welcome your guests • A three course Wedding Breakfast for 50 guests with tea and coffee • A glass of wine with the meal • A glass of sparkling wine to toast your future happiness • Evening room hire and a finger buffet for up to 75 people

Old Gloucester Road Winterbourne Bristol, BS36 1RP 11/1/2012 5:29:21 PM

venues

venues VENUES

BEAUTY

LOCATION OCCASION SERVICE

LOCATION, LOCATION

LOCATION Sophie Shorland guides you through booking your dream wedding venue.

hoosing a venue is often the first task couples attempt on the crazy journey that is wedding planning, and it can be an overwhelming experience, with fierce competition for popular booking dates and high hopes of how the event will come off on the day. Wedding planner Christine Alecci tells us that “choosing the right venue is so very important. You must be happy with the person dealing with your enquiry at the venue, so ask as many questions as you can – then make your decision.” You may want to ask if it has any photos of previous weddings, so you get a better feel for the aesthetic and atmosphere of the day, and whether the place will suit you. And one of the most important considerations is the price. Ask if there are any special packages available or reductions for midweek or out-of-season weddings. Having your wedding on a Sunday in November, for example, can make a previously unattainable venue within your reach. Remember, too, that there is no obligation to book if you’re not completely happy with the venue. Mel Spencer, wedding co-ordinator at Tortworth Court Four Pillars Hotel, says that for many couples a big worry is “the ease and practicality of the venue for their guests. They don’t want their guests to feel unsure about where they need to be and what they need to do. It is really important they feel comfortable in how the day is running, in a relaxed manner.” After all, it is a day you’re supposed to enjoy! A way to combat this is to go for a wedding

package, which often includes a dedicated person from the venue who’ll be on hand to do the herding for you while you lie back and soak up the champagne. Tortworth Court includes a toastmaster in its wedding packages, which Mel says “makes such a difference to the running of the day, especially with larger numbers of guests”. The very first thing to ask a venue is how many people it can accommodate. Numbers are all important, and if it cannot accommodate all your guests, you may need to look elsewhere. If the car parking is limited, you need to let your guests know. Are there disabled facilities? Access can be an issue for some guests so it’s worth planning this in advance. Are any other weddings taking place on the same day as yours? This may not be important to you, but if you aren’t keen on sharing the spotlight, it’s worth thinking about. Food is always an important part of the day, so can this venue cater for your specific dietary requirements? Unless everyone you know is a strapping carnivore with no allergies, it’s worth thinking about, in case one of your nearest and dearest is left at the table nibbling on rye crackers. Christine reminds us that most weddings have children in attendance, so ask whether there is the opportunity to have some child-friendly activities on site, such as a bouncy castle or a separate room for a crèche. For wedding ravers, ask if there are any noise restrictions, what time the night can go on until and if the venue can provide a late bar. For wedding worriers, check if there is somewhere available for you to store your wedding gifts securely, and if they’ll be covered by the venue’s insurance. For bargain hunters, Mel says that “an important question to ask venues with accommodation is what discounts they can provide on room rates for your

wedding guests, and whether they can hold bedrooms for guests of the wedding. At Tortworth Court, we allocate a number of rooms especially for wedding guests, and keep these at a reduced rate. This makes the whole experience much easier and less stressful for the guests.” Also ask whether you have to use the venue’s preferred suppliers or whether you get free rein. This is definitely worth thinking about if you have your heart set on a particular florist or caterer, as some venues tie you into using their own. Consider the little extras too, such as table linen – Christine recommends checking that things like tablecloths and napkins come as part of the deal. If not, you’ll have to adjust your budget accordingly. Finally, once you’ve found the venue of your dreams, confirm the booking in writing, both when you book and about a month before the big day. After all that hard work and research, you don’t want to lose out on your dream wedding location.

CONTACT CHRISTINE ALECCI T: 0117 961 2599 E: CHRISTINE@CHRISTINEALECCI.CO.UK W: WWW.CHRISTINEALECCI.CO.UK TORTWORTH COURT FOUR PILLARS HOTEL WOTTON-UNDER-EDGE, SOUTH GLOS GL12 8HH T: 01454 263000 W: TORTWORTHCOURT-HOTEL.FOUR-PILLARS.CO.UK

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FASHION WHAT'S ON INTERIORS PROPERTY FOOD 8/29/2012 6:52:13 PM

11/2/2012 10:32:12 AM

Sunday 27th January, Sunday 17th March, Monday 6th May, Sunday 7th July, Sunday 8th September, Sunday 17th November All showcases 11am - 3pm

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The Compass Inn Flexible, Creative and Stylish Weddings

FOUR PILLARS

01454 218 242 www.compass-inn.co.uk

Perfect for your Wedding Day … The Kendleshire golf club has been welcoming happy couples for over a decade. We ensure that every couple has the personal care and attention they need to help make their wedding dreams come true. Set in the heart of rolling countryside within the grounds of one of the finest golf courses in the South West, The Kendleshire offers a stunning location with views to capture lifetime memories. • Civil Ceremonies & Partnerships • Afternoon Receptions & Evening Parties • Out of Season Packages • Friendly & Intimate Venue • Links with local hotel’s • Dedicated Personal Wedding Co-Ordinator If you would like more information or to arrange a viewing with one of our wedding team then please contact us either by T:- 01179567007 E:-cherie@kendleshire.com W:- thekendleshire.com The Kendleshire, Henfield Road, Coalpit Heath, Bristol, BS36 2UY

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2013 & 2014

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VENUES

HISTORY IN THE MAKING Sam and Lev take in the beautiful views of the River Norr.

A PALLADIAN

PALACE

Kate Andrews luxuriates in the classic grandeur of Ston Easton Park.

or those of us who grew up reading the novels of Jane Austen, longing for a quiet country estate of our own (and a wet shirt-wearing Colin Firth to match), Ston Easton Park is the perfect wedding venue. Approaching the stunning Palladian mansion with its elegant architecture nestled deep amongst the Mendip hills, it’s difficult not to gasp at the view. As Elizabeth Bennet said of Pemberley: “Of all this I might have been mistress.” And when it comes to your wedding, Ston Easton really can be yours. This luxury hotel is experienced at catering for weddings and goes to great lengths to make your wedding day memorable for everyone. Ston Easton Park offers sole usage to wedding parties, allowing yours to fill the grounds and roam the house. Paying that bit extra to make your venue exclusive brings with it a great many perks, including the use of 19 beautiful rooms at the main house for when your guests are too tired to dance. Ston Easton Park caters for wedding parties of 2 to 120 people. It boasts six elegant rooms available for hire, each with their own unique and beautiful features. The Saloon, which was once described as “one of the finest rooms in Somerset”, is perfect for larger ceremonies, for example. The Drawing Room is a light and graceful room whose windows offer stunning views of the estate. The Yellow Dining Room

boasts Georgian and Regency furniture, so if you are trying to capture Austen elegance, this might be the room for you. The hire charges differ between rooms and discounted hire is available for weekday weddings. But don’t leave the beautiful grounds outside! Ston Easton’s renowned florists are sure to create masterpieces that will capture everyone’s attention. And when everyone has started to feel a little peckish, the outstanding cuisine on offer, courtesy of The Sorrel Restaurant, counts itself amongst the best in Bath and Wells. Should your wedding party include more than 80 guests; a marquee can be positioned for you to continue your celebrations outdoors. When all of your guests have danced their way up to bed, why not continue celebrating? To make the most of your happy day, you and your new spouse can spend a ‘Mini-moon’ at Ston Easton Park, luxuriating in one of their romantic four-poster beds, with a champagne breakfast to celebrate your first married morning together. And if taking care of all the wedding minutiae fills you with dread, why not leave the coordination of your celebration in the capable hands of Ston Easton’s wedding coordinator? They can take care of the detail, leaving you free to enjoy your special day in luxurious surroundings.

STON EASTON PARK SOMERSET, BA3 4DF T 01761 241631 E INFO@STONEASTON.CO.UK W WWW.STONEASTON.CO.UK

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INGLESIDE HOUSE Ingleside House is the ideal country house wedding venue situated in the heart of The Cotswolds. With a full licence for civil ceremonies, couples can share their day with friends and family in this stunning Grade II listed venue. Due to our late license this also allows the happy couples to say “I do” as the sun sets or “kiss the bride” in candle light with log fires burning during the wintery evenings. Our house can be hired exclusively for a party of 20 or for a reception of 200 offering total privacy and elegance to celebrate your special day. Whether you need a venue for a party or a corporate event our dedicated team can arrange everything to suit your requirements from the catering, entertainment, styling and planning. We believe that any event big or small should be personal to each couple, therefore all weddings are tailor made to your personal wishes with no attention to detail spared. We care as much about the success of your day as you do so please feel free to contact us for more information or to request our wedding brochure.

Ingleside House 5 Beeches Road, Cirencester Gloucestershire GL7 1BN Contact: 01285 648230 info@inglesidecirencester.com

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VENUES

A HOUSE WITH

BLAST OF THE PAST Ingleside House is full of Character and retain’s many beautiful features.

HISTORY

Hannah Chapman finds Cirencester’s Ingleside House to be a versatile wedding venue that’s rich with history.

roudly straddling the old city wall of Cirencester, Ingleside House is a venue steeped in history and tradition. Not only has it been the private residence of a gentleman, a solicitor and a colonel, it also served as a munitions factory and a school. This grade II-listed building has been built on and added to with each passing century, parts of the property dating from the 18th, the 19th and the 20th centuries. But it’s not all bygone years and nostalgia. Despite its rich heritage, Ingleside House boasts all the creature comforts of a 21st-century venue. In 2007 three Cirencester locals banded together to turn the property into an elegant event and conference centre. The character of the house has been preserved, and it retains all of its most beautiful features, including the grand staircase, fireplaces and beautiful oak flooring, and the passion that went into the property’s new lease of life can be seen throughout. Even the garden is fully kitted out with wi-fi and full lighting, making it the perfect location for a summer wedding, or for when your guests spill outside to enjoy the crisp evening air. With its five unique function rooms, each with their own individual style, Ingleside House is able to accommodate wedding parties from 20 to 200 guests, and several different rooms are licensed for civil ceremonies. Why not use The Library as a private cinema and screen films to keep your younger guests occupied during

the reception? Or use The Barn Theatre, which can seat 150, at the beginning of an evening reception, showing you and your partner’s favourite movie? The Barn Theatre is also licensed for ceremonies and for those wanting the look of a marquee wedding at a fraction of the cost, this could be the room for you. The room can be dressed to look like the interior of a grand marquee, but with the benefit of central heating, which is particularly desirable for winter weddings. This means that brides wanting the aesthetic of a summer wedding don’t have to miss out just because of the season. And for those Cirencester locals who remember Ingleside House from its school days, why not celebrate your special day and get married in your old school? Nothing could be more romantic for childhood sweethearts. Ingleside House is also able to cater for couples wanting evening ceremonies, with the latest taking place at 7.30pm. Why not plan yourselves an evening ceremony followed by an evening of live music in The Vaults, tucked away in the servants’ quarters of the house? Not only does this venue already have a reputation for its popular open mic night, but with its purpose-built stage and excellent sound system, it could be the perfect reception venue for music-loving couples. Why not contact the lovely team at Ingleside House and arrange a viewing? Perhaps you’ll be adding to its history yourself.

INGLESIDE HOUSE 5 BEECHES RD, CIRENCESTER, GL7 1BN T 01285 648230 E INFO@INGLESIDECIRENCESTER.COM W WWW.INGLESIDECIRENCESTER.COM

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VENUES

DARTINGTON HALL lends itself to different styles of wedding.

VALUES

ADDED

Mike Gartside nips down the M5 to discover Dartington Hall, a wedding venue for all seasons.

hether in bright autumn sunlight or, as we first saw it, wrapped in an enigmatic mist, Dartington Hall is a place of exquisitely English wonder, where history and modernity meet. Dating back to the reign of Richard II, it was home to the Dartington College of Arts until as recently as 2010, and is run by a trust which promotes the arts, sustainability and a fairer society. My partner Cath, and I are here to explore its potential as a wedding venue and first impressions are highly promising. The Great Hall itself, with its medieval-style hammerbeam roof, is just one potential venue for the ceremony or reception. There’s also the upper gatehouse, again with an imposing vault, which sets the right ceremonial tone. It’s all Grade I listed, of course, while even the gardens have a Grade II listing. Parties of up to 140 can be hosted indoors, while larger groups can be accommodated in a marquee outside, overlooking an Elizabethan garden. There are also more intimate spaces for smaller groups, such as the Solar Room, which hosts ceremonies of up to 40. “Dartington Hall is an unusual and unique venue which lends itself to a variety of different styles of wedding and celebrations, no matter how big or small,” says Natalie Freeman, Dartington’s wedding co-ordinator. “There is huge potential in the South West for a unique and socially

conscious venue, where brides and grooms can get married in magnificent surroundings knowing that they are supporting the charitable work of the Dartington Hall Trust.’’ The hall boasts a range of newly renovated bedrooms, including several extensive suites, and Natalie says brides often choose to stay there the night before, allowing their party the chance to get ready in relaxed and ample surroundings. There are plenty of rooms for the immediate family to stay in as well, while any overflow can be catered for by neighbouring hotels in Totnes and the surrounding countryside. As a keen gardener, Cath can’t wait to explore the grounds and we spend a happy morning wandering around the exquisitely crafted gardens, taking photographs of the autumnal shapes and colours as the sun burns away that veil of mist. You can hardly imagine a better setting, with plenty of beautiful space for wedding party members to take a muchneeded breather. At the core of all weddings, though, is the food, and the in-house catering team, based at the estate’s White Hart pub adjacent to the Great Hall, certainly proves it’s up to scratch on our visit. A vibrant events venue, including a summer school, music festivals, concerts and conferences, Dartington’s availability for weddings is outside the traditional summer

months, according to Natalie. She says that many couples opt for September and October weddings at Dartington, when the estate is at its most beautiful. For Bristol, Bath and Gloucestershire couples, it’s just two hours’ drive to the complete, self-contained day of a lifetime.

DARTINGTON HALL TOTNES, SOUTH DEVON, TR9 6EL T: 01803 847100 E: BOOKINGS@DARTINGTONHALL.COM W: WWW.DARTINGTONHALL.COM

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Ideal for weddings, private parties, corporate events, club nights and festivals!

To hire our booth for your special day contact us at

enquiries@itsyourbooth.com or visiting our website itsyourbooth.com

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venues AZTEC HOTEL & SPA

BEST WESTERN COMPASS INN

THE BRISTOL HOTEL

Aztec West, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4TS

Prince Street, Bristol BS1 4QF

T: 01454 201090 E: aztec.events@shirehotels.com W: www.aztechotelbristol.com

T: 0117 9230333 E: bristolevents@doylecollection.com W: www.doylecollection.com/bristol

CAPACITY: Up to 150 for Wedding Breakfast and 250 for Evening Reception.

Tormarton, Near Badminton, South Gloucestershire, GL9 1JB

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. This stylish hotel is a clever mixture of old and new. Striking timber beams blend with contemporary artwork and stone flagged floors adorned by brightly coloured feature rugs. Our approach to events is a simple one - there is no one size fits all, every event is as unique as you are and the day of your dreams doesn’t have to cost the earth.

T: 01454 218242 E: Info@compass-inn.co.uk W: www.compass-inn.co.uk

INGLESIDE HOUSE

Ingleside House, 5 Beeches Road, Cirencester Gloucestershire, GL7 1BN T: 01285 648230 E: info@inglesidecirencester W:www.inglesidecirencester.com CAPACITY: Wedding breakfasts for up to 100 guests and evening party for up to 200 guests.

FACILITIES: The Grade II listed House in the heart of the Cotswolds offers an idyllic location for your big day. Ingleside House is an exceptional wedding venue set in its own grounds, and after a yearlong refurbishment the house offers versatile rooms with original features. With unique and stunning reception rooms each licensed for civil ceremonies this elegant property is available for exclusive use throughout the duration of the day.

CAPACITY: 26 Bedrooms FACILITIES: An 18th century coaching Inn with modern accommodation set in acres of beautifully kept grounds and gardens. Licensed for civil ceremonies.

THE KENDLESHIRE GOLF CLUB

CAPACITY: Up to 280 for a Wedding Breakfast and 400 for an Evening Reception FACILITIES: Why look any further than The Bristol Hotel for arranging your dream wedding. With floor to ceiling windows overlooking the stunning Bristol Harbourside, and luxurious features such as rich deep carpets and Waterford Crystal chandeliers this is the most wonderful setting for your special day. Indulge your friends and family with delicious cuisine, memorable surroundings and a wealth of warm hospitality.

THE KINGSCOTE BARN

The Kendleshire, Henfield Road, Coalpit Heath, Bristol, BS36 2UY T: 01179567007 E:-cherie@thekendleshire.com W:-thekendleshire.com CAPACITY: Up to 130 guests for a civil ceremony and wedding breakfast, up to 210 guests for an evening reception. FACILITIES: The Kendleshire Golf Club has been welcoming happy couples for over a decade. Set in the heart of rolling countryside, within the grounds of one of the finest golf courses in the South West, The Kendleshire offers a stunning location with views to capture memories that will last a lifetime. Our dedicated Weddings Coordinator will guide you through every step of the preparation for your big day. We have easy transport links, extensive free parking and close ties with local hotels for accommodation.

Binley Farm, Kingscote, Tetbury, GL8 8YE T: 01453 861161 E: info@kingscotebarn.co.uk W: www.kingscotebarn.co.uk CAPACITY: Ceremony & receptions up to 150 guests with up to 180 guests for an evening reception. FACILITIES: The Kingscote Barn is a Cotswold Stone Barn which has been sympathetically restored to the highest possible standards nestled away in its own secret valley. The warm neutral décor allows you to decorate the barn with your own individual style and ideas. Exposed oak beams and soft lighting add to the romantic ambiance of this magical venue. Luxury onsite accommodation.

82 West Weddings

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venues DOUBLETREE BY HILTON CADBURY HOUSE

EASTWOOD PARK COUNTRY HOUSE

THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM

Great Pulteney Street, Bath, BA2 4DB T: 01225 388549 E: susie@clerkenwellgreen.com W: www.holburne.org

Congresbury, Bristol, BS49 5AD

Falfield, Gloucestershire GL12 8DA

T: 01934 834343 E: weddings@cadburyhouse.com W: www.cadburyhousebristol.co.uk

T: 01454 262805 W: www.eastwoodpark.co.uk

CAPACITY: From an intimate 20 guests to 350 FACILITIES: Beautiful 18th century house with a modern twist, offering first-class facilities for large or smaller intimate weddings with 132 bedrooms, health club, spa and hair salon on site. Licensed for civil ceremonies and partnerships.

MERCURE BRISTOL NORTH THE GRANGE HOTEL

Mercure Bristol North, The Grange Hotel Old Gloucester Road, Winterbourne Bristol, BS36 1RP T: 01454 771403 E: 063cs@jupiterhotels.co.uk CAPACITY: day 150, evening 180 FACILITIES: This elegant country hotel, dating back to 1851, is set in 18 acres of attractive grounds, creating the perfect setting for your wedding. The Grange Hotel sits in beautiful gardens and really is the perfect backdrop for your wedding photographs. 68 bedroom four star hotel.

CAPACITY: Wedding breakfast 110. Reception 180 (more with marquee). FACILITIES: Magnificent country house within 200-acre private estate with valley views. 69 bedrooms. Licensed for civil weddings and partnerships. Available exclusively.

OLD DOWN MANOR

Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG T: 01454 414081 E: info@olddownmanor.co.uk W: www.olddownmanor.co.uk Capacity: Up to 120 for a wedding breakfast and 200 for evening reception Facilities: Unique brand new venue within the South West with an investment of ÂŁ4million, Old Down Manor is an exceptional wedding venue, with the added benefit of being exclusive to your party. With 13 well appointed bedrooms, beautiful reception rooms and a license for civil ceremonies, the magnificent property is yours for the duration of your wedding day.

CAPACITY: Up to 100 for a Civil Ceremony, 80 guests for a wedding breakfast and evening reception (inside the Museum) or up to 200 in a marquee FACILITIES: The Holburne Museum is a unique and beautiful venue located in the centre of Bath. Inside the recently restored galleries we can accommodate a reception, wedding breakfast and evening entertainment on the ground floor of the striking new extension. Clerkenwell Green are the exclusive event caters for the Museum and food is what we are passionate about. We look forward to working with you to create your perfect menu and our teams take pride in everything they do and are well versed in making things run smoothly for your dream wedding.

TORTWORTH COURT FOUR PILLARS HOTEL

Tortworth, Wotton-under-Edge South Gloucestershire, GL12 8HH T: 01454 263000 E: Tortworth@four-pillars.co.uk W: www.four-pillars.co.uk/tortworth CAPACITY: Up to 280 FACILITIES: 190 bedrooms. Luxury country house hotel set in 30 acres of picturesque parkland, overlooking the lake. Also offers the 2 AA Rosette awarded Orangery Restaurant, spa and leisure club.

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photo gallery PhotoGallery

REPORTAGE FORMAL

IDEAS CREATIVE PORTRAITS GROUP PHOTOGRAPHS

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PhotoGallery

David J Brewin Photography Contact David Brewin Telephone 0845 427 7847 Mobile 07977 126281 Website www.davidjbrewin.co.uk

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PhotoGallery

Lee Hatherall Photography Telephone 0845 130 2771. Mobile 07834 179901 Email info@leehatherallphotography.com Website www.leehatherallphotography.com

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PhotoGallery

Mark Simmons Photography Landline 0117 914 0999 Mobile 07778 063 699 Email info@marksimmonsphotography.co.uk Website www.marksimmonsphotography.com

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directory BRIDAL BRIDAL WEAR WEAR

Call Jacqui Jacqui Lewis Lewison on0117 0117934 9343136 3136 Call to advertise in the next issue of West Weddings to advertise in the next issue of West Weddings

ENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

FOOD & & DRINK DRINK FOOD

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directory TRANSPORT Williams Executive Drives R E A& T Hers S E R V Collection ICE & VALU E TheG His from

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Winter 2012 Autumn 2012

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM

Tell us about your big day or wedding plans; let us know all about the gorgeous dress you discovered or about that perfect venue. Ask us any questions you have about planning for your nuptials or share some useful tips of your own. Email the editor at westweddings@venue. co.uk and you could be gracing the pages of our next edition.

COMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONS The winner will be the first entry drawn at random, from all eligible entries. The draws will take place on the following dates and the winner will be contacted accordingly. WIN A WEDDING DRESS: Postal and online entries to be received by 1.02.13 Winner selected at West Weddings Show and notified before 1.03.13 The winner’s wedding date must be six months after 1.03.13 and within two years of the competition closing date. Special Day and Appletons will award the winner a wedding dress to the value of £1,000. No other items (i.e suits, hats, shoes) can be redeemed as part of this prize. Only brides-to-be can qualify to win the competition but entries can be made on behalf of a bride-to-be by third parties. Data protection: The data supplied to us will not be used for any other purpose than the administration of this competition and for the prize suppliers to contact you. TERMS & CONDITIONS: Winter 2012 A. General terms and conditions relating to all competitions in West Weddings Autumn 2012edition: edition: 1. 1. 2. 2. 3. 3. 4. 4. 5. 5. 6. 6. 7. 7.

8. 8.

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0117 934 3136

to advertise in the next issue of West Weddings Magazine

9. 9.

10. 10. 11. 11. 12. 12. 13. 13. 14. 14.

No employees of Bristol News and Media or any company associated with a particular competition, promotions, game or any member of their family may enter. Unless otherwise specified, all entries must be made using the entry form(s) printed in West Weddings or provided at our wedding fairs and shows or online at www.west-weddings.co.uk. No photocopies will be accepted. Only one entry per competition per person is permitted. Prizes are as stated and no alternatives cash or otherwise are available. All entries must be received by the specified closing date (Please refer to relevant competition terms and conditions). West Weddings accepts no liability for any loss, damage or injury caused by any prizes won. Publicity will be given to any competition winners and/or entrants and their names and/or photographs printed across the Bristol News & Media portfolio. By accepting the prize you are agreeing to allow Bristol News & Media the use of at least one of your wedding photographs showing yourself and the relevant prize. The determination and decision of the Editor on all matters will be final and no correspondence will be entered into. The Editor reserves the right in absolute discretion to disqualify any entry competitors, or nominee, add to, or write any rules, or to cancel the whole or part of any competition, game or promotion at any stage withough prior notification. Where Bristol News & Media offers prizes on behalf of an associated company these prizes are provided in their entirety by these associated companies. Bristol News & Media cannot be held responsible for any failure to provide prizes as specified and all enquires in reference to such prizes will be referred to the associated companies. No purchase/payment is required unless stated. If you have agreed to be contacted by Northcliffe Media regarding our products and services, we respect your data privacy; you may modify your preferences and get further information by writing to us at Data Protection, Promotion Dept, Bristol News & Media, Temple Way Bristol BS99 7HD. If the prize you choose exceeds the value stated you may contribute the difference at the discretion of the prize provider. If the prize you choose is less than the value stated no cash/credit will be offered. Standard Bristol News & Media terms and conditions apply. Visit www.thisisbristol.co.uk/ competitionrules Individual prize terms and conditions may apply; please see the competition pages for details.

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Y CREDIT: DAVID J BREWIN PHOTOGRAPH

Last Word

Should a

WOMAN PROPOSE? Carla Yorukoglu is in favour of gender equality but Kate Hacker feels this is a job for the men.

YES

The age old debate has reared its head again - should we remove the stigma that is attached to women getting down on one knee and popping the question? Many traditionalists believe women should abstain from proposing, yet have argued that it is not a question of gender inequality. I wouldn’t call myself a feminist per se, but I think that this is a bit of a contradiction. A matter such as proposing should be up to the autonomy of the individual and not the powers that be! Isn’t it time to rewrite the rules rather than continue following an outdated and restrictive precedent? I think that proposals should take one thing into consideration and one thing only – love. Yes, I know that sounds cheesy, but it is the ultimate reason behind people getting married. I don’t see why there should be so much taboo surrounding women who bite the bullet and get in there first. Some men may welcome women making the first move, as many can be nervous about getting the timing wrong. More often than not, the decision to get married has already been discussed by couples and the proposal is a formality that seals this intention. I think that the main problem surrounding women proposing is how the men will react. Many men say that their girlfriend’s proposal would diminish their masculinity and humiliate them. But why should this egotistical thinking continue in the future? It is tempting to see this reluctance as an excuse, masking the fact that he may not be ready to make a long term commitment. I think that as long as ladies look closely at their personal situation and consider the beliefs and inclinations of their partner, there is nothing wrong with following in the footsteps of the many women who have already popped the question on a Leap Year.

Simply put – do you want to remember the very first step into the adventure of marriage as one where you had to pull the weight because your husband either hadn’t thought of it, wasn’t sure, or was too scared? While the modern thing may be to leave the door open to either side proposing, tradition still puts responsibility for this event firmly in the man’s side of the court. Yes, women should initiate conversations about ‘where this is all going’ and should be equal partners in knowing precisely where the relationship stands and where it is headed. But, unless you established from the outset of the relationship that either of you could be expected to propose, it will generally be assumed that the man will do so. And if your boyfriend is assuming that proposing is his step to take, reversing roles will automatically mean bringing up the question of marriage earlier than he expected.

While you may ask, “so what’s the big deal?” – think about it. Unless you’re confident that the two of you are on the exact same page, you might risk an unsure or confused response to you popping the question – not exactly the greatest foot on which to start a lifetime of wedded bliss. The system may be flawed, but it would take some serious communication and re-arranging of the rules with your significant other to get around the pitfalls of proposing yourself. The beautiful thing about the tradition as it stands is that when the man has decided for himself that the timing is right and he is ready and willing to get married – he proposes. Let’s face it. We women are often a bit quicker to jump on the marriage train than our male counterparts. Proposing to your man might be jumping the gun for him. Let tradition alone and allow him to propose when he’s ready. That way, you’ll both move forward to marriage, confident that you are ready for and excited about taking on life’s most beautiful challenge.

w your thoughts via email or What do you think? Let us kno

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Sposa

Elegante

For further information or to book an appointment please call

Tel: 01225 345 101 439 Bath Road, Saltford (on the A4 between Bristol & Bath) www.sposaelegante.co.uk email: info@ sposaelegante.co.uk

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