West Wedding Summer 2012

FREE COVERING BATH, BRISTOL, GLOUCESTERSHIRE & SOMERSET Summer 2012

www.west-weddings.co.uk

A TASTE OF HAPPINESS THE WEDDING CATERER’S SECRETS

DRESSES TO THRILL

SOLITAIRE JUSTIN ALEXANDER WHITE LACE & PROMISES DESSY

Mum’s the word

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE EXPERT FASHION TIPS

ESTATE

ofGRACE

The Holburne Museum, Bath, offers history and modernity for the brightest summer weddings. P53 GOWNS | MENSWEAR | PHOTOGRAPHY | VENUES | JEWELLERY | INSPIRATION Summer2012_Cover.indd 5

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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!

Stockists of award winning Dessy Bridesmaid range

r

Hire 6 suits for the prices of 5

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Weddings

One of the largest showrooms in Bristol, with an endless choice on waistcoats, cravats and designer suits new for 2012 If you are looking for the very best of service and the highest of standards – 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 • www.anneharding.com

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THE TEAM CONTRIBUTORS Editor: Mike Gartside Group Editor: Dave Higgitt Sub editor: Helen Dorritt Writers: Hannah Chapman, Sharon Diamond, Helen Dorritt, Jemima Owen, Louise Jarndyce.

Design: Sarah Malone, Sarah Clark and Cath Evans Advertising manager: 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: Mike Gartside T: 0117 934 3742 E: mike.gartside@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.

COVER GOWN IS ESTELLA BY ALLURE, SUPPLIED

BY VICTORIA PARK BRIDAL, BATH. PHOTOGRAPH: DAVID J. BREWIN PHOTOGRAPHY.

Welcome to

West Weddings Summer 2012

S

ummer is high season for weddings – traditionally the time when every bride and groom, literally, wants their day in the sun. For many venues Saturdays in June and July will be booked up well in advance while anyone planning a wedding at short notice may well be advised to look at weekday or Sunday slots. What great news, then, that Bath has a new wedding venue, the palatial Holburne Museum, which threw its doors open to us to stage our summer showcase of wedding styles, bringing together some of the West’s most exciting experts, including our talented shoot photographer this issue, David J Brewin.

As ever, we have a packed issue with ideas, help and advice for every member of the wedding party. The bride, naturally, takes pride of place with a gorgeous array of gowns to choose from in our Gowns section, from the top end, high allure offerings of design houses like Catherine Walker & Co, Desada and Lambert Créations, to great value dresses available on the high street courtesy of Phase Eight (p.27-42). The section also has fantastic advice for the matriarchs of the family, headed up, of course by the mother of the bride (p.41), while even the littlest of the bridesmaids is catered for in our roundup of dresses for the bridal entourage (p.36).

Elsewhere we explore the art of summer flowers (p8), a day in the life of a wedding caterer (p.69) and some glorious destinations for your honeymoon (p.66), not to mention inspiration for grooms in our grooms survival guide (p.45).

Whether bride to be, groom or wedding party member, there should be something for everyone in this summer’s edition. And, if you contact anyone you see in these pages . . . remember to tell them you saw it in West Weddings.

Mike Gartside, Editor

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3 1 1

contents

63

SUMMER 2012

80

46

REGULARS 6 Wedding news

New hair salon, fabulous cars, brooch

bouquets, suppliers tie up with Bristol

hotel 8 News feature

Summer flowers 13 Ask the experts

Your questions answered 18 Real Weddings

Four couples share their big

day: including Rachel and Jay’s action

packed celebrations 50 Online

Our presence on the web with bloggers

Hannah and Helen 51 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

Different opinions on how much say

parents should have over the guest list

FASHION

14 Summer Style

Look blooming lovely this season 27 Gowns

Top designers including Lambert

Créations, Delada, Judith Bremner,

Catherine Walker & Co.

36 Bridesmaids’ outfits Lots of creative ways to make the

bridesmaids look fantastic 41 Mother of the bride

Ensure the matriarchs look stunning,

too 45 Grooms’ survival guide

Inspired by Shandon Fowler, we offer

helpful hints to baffled blokes 46 Menswear

Light-weight is the way to beat the summer heat 53 Cover Shoot

The palatial Holburne Museum

in Bath helps us showcase the West’s

most exciting wedding talents

8

23

BE INSPIRED 63 How to

From honeymoons to catering hints . . .

some great ideas for couples 64 In and out

What’s up and what’s down with our

wedding wasp

VENUES 73 Making history

From stately elegance to racing excitement, two contrasting Bath

venues

COMPETITION

17 WIN a wedding dress

At Special Day and Appletons

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news

News

CREATIVITY PLANNING COLOUR

Vintaagveen he Something old, something new, something borrowed . . . all of these can be quite easy to find. Something blue, however, can be a little bit trickier. If you don’t fancy the usual blue lace garter or blue ribbon on your bouquet, how about a stunning Mark II Jaguar instead?

AJE Classics is a family-run chauffeur business in South Gloucestershire who can provide the ultimate wedding accessory in the form of a beautiful vintage car. The company owns one of these gorgeous creatures which, with its shimmering duck egg colour, is the perfect blue item to ensure luck for your wedding day.

From summer this year, a new member of the AJE Classics family joints the fleet, an opalescent green Jaguar S Type to die for. “We did a lot of research to make sure that the colour was correct for the 1960s vintage of the car,” says Emma, who runs the company with her husband Andrew. The S Type is almost identical to the Mark II, the only difference being the straight arches on the back wheel as opposed to the Mark II’s curves. The pale green metallic finish of the car is the perfect complement to a lot of colour schemes and, as with the blue car, provides a great contrast to a white dress.

BROOCH-ING THE SUBJECT Here’s a new idea, apparently all the rage in the USA at the moment. Instead of a handful of fresh blooms, why not consider a bouquet made from any number of ornamental objects, be they brooches or china flowers? According to Bristol-based company Auntie’s Vintage China, which makes these unusual gems, they can offer couples a wonderful, unique keepsake of the day. They can be created from old jewellery items that maybe you’ve had in your household for years, giving old objects new significance in your family history.

“Aunties will make a bespoke brooch bouquet for you in which you can include sentimental pieces from your family history,” says the company’s Sue FyfeWilliams. “Your groom could wear a co-ordinating button hole. They are also available to hire for the big day and I can temporarily customise them with individual items from your family.”

AUNTIE’S VINTAGE CHINA WWW.AUNTIESVINTAGECHINA.CO.UK

AJE CLASSICS CODRINGTON, SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE T: 01454 600072 M: 07748 117547 W: WWW. AJECLASSICS.CO.UK E: EMMA@AJECLASSICS.CO.UK

A kind OF HUSH Nature knows best, especially when it comes to hair care and colour. And, since opening last autumn, organic and mineral-based salon HUSH Hairdressing has enjoyed an increasingly busy time, thanks to the popularity of its natural, organic colour treatments and products.

Stylists at HUSH use only natural, plant-based products which are ammonia, sulphate and chemical-free and certified organic, successfully combining a modern, caring approach with the latest skills and organic technology, ensuring an individual service for every client while reducing the salon’s carbon footprint.

In addition to the 100% organic watercolour treatments, HUSH now offers a new smoothing treatment; Anti Frizz by Yuko, which combines a unique blend of natural ingredients from

meadowform, silk, soy and wheat to smooth away frizz and seal in nutrients.

Alongside directors Mark Andres and Glenn Holmes, there are four talented stylists. The team also includes two nail technicians, offering both gel and ShellacTM nails, in a stylish, relaxing environment. With clients in mind, the salon is open six days a week, from 9.30am until 7.30pm Monday to Friday and from 9am until 5pm on Saturday.

HUSH HAIRDRESSING 27-29 BALDWIN STREET, BRISTOL T: 0117 930 0350 W: WWW. HUSHHAIRBRISTOL.CO.UK E: INFO@HUSHHAIRBRISTOL.CO.UK

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Bon Bon, with chiffon pleats

4/27/2012 6:45:47 PM

STOCKISTS OF

NEW-IN ALFRED ANGELO MODERN VINTAGE RANGE | SAN PATRICK MORI LEE | MON CHERI | ALLURE BELSOIE | CHARLOTTE BALBIER AMANDA WYATT

Plus size Wedding Dresses now available!

Ex-sample dresses at reduced prices

The Bridal Room For further information please ring 0117 908 9010.

Or visit our website www.bridalroombristol.co.uk Appointments recommended 40 High Street, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol

DESIGNER BRIDAL WEAR | BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES | ACCESSORIES & SHOES | EVENING & PROM WEAR

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

For the perfect look Over 500 Bridesmaid Dresses in stock.

A fabulous range of “Wedding Gowns to go” from £150.

www.specialdayandappletons.co.uk - APPOINTMENTS RECOMMENDED DESIGNER BRIDAL WEAR | BRIDESMAIDS | MENS FORMAL HIRE | MOTHER OF THE BRIDE AND GROOM

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NewsFlowers

Improved growing techniques and year-round availability mean budget is your only limit when choosing your summer flowers. Two of the West’s most exciting florists talk to Jemima Owen about what’s possible.

A beautiful bouquet with hot pink Memory Lane roses, lime green cymbidium orchid and veronica by Chris Morison

W

hen choosing the floral style for your wedding, many brides seek ways to combine the bright and beautiful with easy to manage budgets. Some summer brides look for classic tradition but others have more adventurous thoughts and explore the wide variety of seasonal flowers now available.

“The internet is driving the growing demands of today’s fashion conscious brides,” says Tina Bignell of Bristol florist Tiger Lily. “Flower growers have responded by offering more year-round availability of blooms. With the exception of traditional English flowers, grown on local farms, many flowers are now available all year from many different countries, such as Holland, Europe, South America and even Asia. Traditional seasonal flowers are becoming less common, as the specialist growers are adapting to our fast, ‘I want’ culture.”

However, while there’s more choice, it’s frequently more expensive to buy flowers out of season, which won’t suit all couples, according to Westbury-on-Trym-based florist Chris Morison. “The fantastic selection of flowers available allows a bride can to have practically anything she chooses,” he says.

“The more difficult to get, the more expensive the flowers will be, but the choice is always there.”

He advises couples to match their budget to the flowers available. “Some couples have more money to spend than others, although everyone is increasingly budget-conscious at the moment,” he says. “I can gear the flowers to whatever they can afford. There’s no point offering them a quote that they’ll be uncomfortable with.”

One way of reducing costs, says Tina, is to supplement your favourite flowers, with lower cost items. “Add your choice of blooms together with a variety of different shaded

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SpringFlowers CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Roses are still the most popular summer flower, says Tina of Tiger Lily; luscious greens and creams in calla lillies and vibernum by Chris Morison; a Tiger Lily setting

foliages,” she says. “Or possibly add some herbs such as flowering sage, rosemary and mint, all of which combine to create the quintessential English summer wedding.”

Of course, many brides still opt for the more traditional flowers. “There are so many styles to choose from, from traditional to modern,” says Chis. “When a bride comes to me, I’ll show her my portfolio and suggest designs which fit her wedding dress, the bridesmaid dresses and the wedding venue or church, so it creates one big picture. That way, I will understand the style they are looking for.”

Tina, meanwhile, emphasises how some brides still prefer a traditional floral display at their wedding rather than a more exotic one. “The most often requested summer flower is still the rose,” she says. “There are many beautifully scented and different colours available, from creamy ivory to coffee beige and lilac, all in antique shades or bright and vibrant ones. This is one of the oldest and most traditional flowers, but it’s still the most popular and beautiful among brides.

“Beautiful flowers such as, the hydrangea,

peonies, and English garden roses are really popular and are grown all over the world.

With different climates, we are now able to buy traditional English flowers such as a large open garden rose from Ecuador, all year around.”

With so much choice for your summer flowers and so many different countries to get them from, it is important that you have the right florist to manage your requirements. Chris highlights what he feels is important: “I want to offer a personal degree of attention to individual clients.

That one-to-one relationship is significant to me, as the bride must feel confident in what I offer.” Tina echoes this, “Whatever our brides want, we will do our best to tailor to their exact needs.”

CONTACTS TIGER LILY 3 CHELFORD GROVE, STOKE LODGE, BRISTOL BS34 6DD T: 01454 856737 W: WWW. TIGERLILYFLOWERS.CO.UK E: TINA@TIGERLILYFLOWERS. CO.UK CHRIS MORISON T: 0117 950 6321 M: 0782 8975086 E: CHRISMORISON@LIVE.CO.UK

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4/27/2012 4:38:20 PM

LoveActuallyweddings Get yourself noticed by the Bride-to-be’s!

Call Jacqui Lewis on

0117 934 3136

to advertise in the next issue of West Weddings Magazine

Wedding Fayres (all fayres 11.30am - 4pm) Summer Special - Bristol Zoo, Clifton Pavilion – Sunday 10th June Colston Hall - Bristol – Sunday 8th July The Castle Hotel - Taunton – Sunday 15th July The Grand Thistle Hotel - Bristol – Sunday 2nd Sept Bailbrook House - Bath – Sunday 2nd Sept Berwick Lodge - Bristol - Sunday 23rd Sept Tortworth Court - Wotton-under-Edge, Near Bristol – Sunday 30th September

ADMISSION is always FREE with loveactually For information of all our events, please visit

www.loveactuallyweddings.co.uk

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News

A MATCH MADE

IN HEAVEN Y

es, we’re sure this is true of your forthcoming wedding, but one of the most exciting new pairings to take place in the West’s wedding market this year is the recently announced partnership between the Bristol Hotel and the Wedding Works. The two businesses have come together to provide brides and grooms with the ultimate wedding package.

Centrally located on Bristol’s waterside, The Bristol Hotel is an idyllic setting for any wedding, with wonderful views over the harbour and tailor-made facilities. The hotel is part of the Doyle Collection, a group of ten exclusive hotels in the UK and USA, and underwent a £9 million refurbishment just over two years ago, reopening in 2009. It is a short walk from some of Bristol’s finest attractions: Queen Square, Arnolfini, Bristol Cathedral and the cobbled loveliness of Welsh Back.

The Wedding Works, based in North Bristol, is a one stop shop for all your wedding needs, from favours to

flowers, stationery, photography and much more. Now in its second year, the business has found that couples and wedding planners are keen on the concept of having all your suppliers under one roof.

“By working with the Wedding Works, we can recommend experts for all aspects of a wedding, offering couples a complete range of reliable, quality suppliers so they don’t have to spend ages looking for them,” explains Jane Guy, director of sales and marketing at The Bristol Hotel.

“We’re really excited about this partnership with the Bristol Hotel,” Peri Said, owner of the Wedding Works, says.

“It’s such a beautiful venue and in such a central location. It’s beautifully decorated inside – there’s none of the corporate look you often get in other hotels.”

The Bristol Hotel and Wedding Works offer a one-stop shop for couples and wedding planners

The partnership was launched with a wedding open evening in March.

“This went really well – we had about 25 brides through the door,” says Peri.

“Suppliers from the Wedding Works dressed one of the licensed suites as it would be for a wedding, complete with chair covers, centrepieces, balloons, a photographer and a videographer.

There was a lot of interest and I’ve got a confirmed booking from it already.”

THE BRISTOL HOTEL PRINCE STREET, BRISTOL BS1 4QF T: 0117 923 0333 W: WWW. DOYLECOLLECTION.COM/LOCATIONS/BRISTOL_HOTELS/THE_BRISTOL_HOTEL.ASPX THE WEDDING WORKS 20 FILTON ROAD, HORFIELD, BRISTOL BS7 0PA T: 07931 859986 W: WWW.THEWEDDINGWORKSBRISTOL.CO.UK

Hunting for bunting?

Now in its fourth year, Clifton Bunting helps brides to add that little piece of decorative magic to their special day. With choices from vintage to contemporary bunting or bespoke designs to order it really is the perfect way to personalise any wedding day.

Inspired by her own quest to personalise her wedding, Eirlys Fernihough spent hours searching for a way to decorate the large, blank marquee canvas. “I was looking for a cost-effective way to add instant colour and I found some fabrics which matched my colour scheme,” she says. “So I decided to take to my sewing machine and make bunting. I remember thinking during the hours I spent sewing that it would have been so much easier and less stressful if I had somebody to make it

for me.” After days making metres upon metres of bunting Eirlys created the exact look she wanted and even took her first bunting order on her wedding day.

Clifton Bunting has a range of premade collections available to hire and if it doesn’t already have the design to match your colour scheme, it will make it for you. Also available are unique, bespoke pieces which include padded letters and bunting with printed writing. These can be made in any colour to tie in with the big day and can be treasured forever.

CLIFTON BUNTING T: 07971 244261 W: WWW.CLIFTONBUNTING.CO.UK E: ENQUIRIES@CLIFTONBUNTING.CO.UK

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Stan ds st ill av 0117 ailable Pleas e cal 9618 l 1

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News

MID-WEEKWEDDINGS, GRACEFUL FAVOURS, CREATIVE IMAGES

you need to ask the experts...

Summer may be in full bloom, but high prices and unimaginative suppliers can dampen the most radiant wedding day. Avoid the pitfalls with our industry insiders.

Summer shoestring

Proposing a favour

Creative memories

We want to get married in peak summer but are finding the weekend charges prohibitive.

How can we reduce our costs?

Favours seem to be an expensive addition to our wedding. Are they really necessary?

We want our wedding to be different and creative rather than traditional. How can our photos reflect that?

Amy Hutton, Bristol

Sarah Lewis, Bath

Lily McHugh, Somerset

Olivia Mills of Old Down Manor says:

Arlene Garcia-Yalung of Little Miss Thingz says:

Martin Wise of Studiowise Photography at The Wedding Works says:

There are a number of ways to reduce your costs. Have you considered a mid-week wedding (we have a great package deal) or even a Friday or Sunday date? Most venues offer a discount on less popular days of the week. Having a mid-week wedding at Old Down Manor is great because we offer a package based on 50 guests in the day and 100 in the evening. Everything from the flowers to the food and evening entertainment is provided. Also, you could ask friends and family to help with flowers, cakes and decoration to save on costs. For example why not buy a plain iced cake from a reputable supermarket and decorate with a simple flower arrangement? How about mini fish and chips or bacon rolls in the evening instead of a full buffet?

Favours are not absolutely necessary, but it should not stop a couple from looking for something different and unusual. This way the favours will be cherished and worth the addition. When couples like you feel they are a ‘luxury’ item, this is where I come in. The favours I provide are unusual and double up as the name place cards and even as a candy buffet holder. For example, we do wine glasses, champagne flutes and tumblers for children. The price includes handpainting, with different designs tailored to what you want. My products are displayed at The Wedding Works, Bristol, and starting at £1.95 each, this is surely a necessary item to complete the wedding ‘package’?

The style of your wedding imagery will be dependent on the selection of the right photographer for you. Some photographers have their preferred style and find it difficult to vary, others are more adaptable.

They’ll add their own creative input to what you are trying to achieve. When choosing your photographer, make sure you get to see albums of complete weddings. That way you’ll see that they can theme a whole album of images and not just take the odd lucky shot. If you are working with a full time professional photographer, expect a pre-wedding photo session to practice poses. You should also have a final run through before the big day to discuss styles, required photos from your day and timings to get the images you want.

FFI: WWW.OLDDOWNMANOR.CO.UK

FFI: WWW.LITTLEMISSTHINGZ.COM

FFI: WWW.STUDIOWISE.CO.UK

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SummerStyle

BLOOM and grow Use the warmth and light of summer to explore your most colourful wedding themes, says Jemima Owen

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S

ummer is a time of excitement and vibrancy, exactly the qualities you’re looking for on your wedding day. It’s a promising time to get creative with colours, whether you shade your wedding in pastels, such as blush pink or cornflower blue, or go in the opposite direction with bright oranges and pinks.

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BRIDAL ELEGANCE For a sleek and classic style, this double satin dress is particularly suited to a summer wedding with its peplum detail and circular chiffon skirt. Its illusion neckline adds sophistication and is also a hot choice in the 2012 bridal market. (Amanda Wakeley, Sposa collection, £3,200, www.amandawakeley.com)

2

TASTE THE RAINBOW Eat your heart out in taste and colour.

A good looking dish can tempt even the most unadventurous people. Choose a menu that is enriched with colour to excite you and your guests. The head chef at Bristol’s ss Great Britain, Alistair Hood, recently unveiled his new events menu and among the tasty morsels on offer are this refreshing watermelon and feta salad with extra virgin olive oil, lime, mint and parsley, perfect for a light summer starter.

(Brunel’s ss Great Britain, www.ssgreatbritain. org)

3

WALK BRIGHTLY Stepping into colourful shoes can make a big difference, bringing out your inner playfulness and adding fun to your bridal outfit. You don’t have to wear a bright orange dress, but you could sneakily lift your white gown to display your

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SummerStyle

5

w

4 beautifully vivid shoes. These lace rounded toe court shoes are dyeable, so can be transformed into any colour you desire. (Ella by The Rainbow Club, £85, stockists in Bristol, Bath and Somerset, www.rainbowclub.co.uk)

4

FLYING WITH INSURANCE Once you’ve played with pearls and danced in lace shoes, you might want to consider the boring practicalities of a wedding, especially if you’re marrying abroad.

Insurance. If your fiancé really does break his leg or your venue in Barbados suddenly goes bust, you need a parachute. Your insurance could save you. (Preferential Direct, www. preferential.co.uk

5

SIMPLY ACCESSORISE Sometimes less is more, especially in summer. Colours can bring wedding themes to life, but if you want a classic bridal look, minimal can be more effective. The 1920s flapper dresses have recently been pulled into 2012 wedding trends, allowing minimal accessories such as side headbands, delicate pearls and classic ivory heels to perfect the bridal look. (The Rainbow Club, stockists in Bristol, Bath and Somerset, www. rainbowclub.co.uk)

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yourself and your soon-to-be-husband to a simple but inspiring garter, embellished with a touch of colour. It could be your ‘something blue.’ (Esty Lingerie, www.estylingerie.com).

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VIBRANT FLOWERS Make a statement with splashes of bold colour. Zesty oranges, hot pinks and royal purples are especially brilliant for a 2012 summer wedding. Bring these colours out by mixing purple freesias with large ivory roses or carry a bouquet full of hot pink carnations. Any good florist will work to achieve the designs you want.

HIDDEN TREASURE Lingerie is a guilty pleasure for many women, a piece of hidden luxury, waiting to be found. As this season is emphasising colour and beauty, think about treating

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FINISHING TOUCHES A classic bridal appearance involves a lot of pre-wedding day pampering.

The summer sun can only do so much for you and, for skin like Sienna Miller’s and Amanda Holden’s, try something like this Clarifying Clay Masque. It will exfoliate the skin and prepare your bridal glow.

(SkinCeuticals, stockists in Bristol, Bath and Somerset, www.skinceuticals.co.uk)

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WELCOME HOME Once you’ve tied the knot, and got back from your sparkling honeymoon, you might want your gifts to enlighten your new home with colour as well. A shabby chic floral tea cup and saucer could do just that. (House of Fraser, Bristol, www. houseoffraser.co.uk)

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News

Instant KARMA

Once seen, never forgotten; that’s the perfect way to sum up Karma Kars’ wedding car, affectionately nicknamed Goa Sunset. “Whenever a bride rides in the car, she feels like a princess!” says Suzie Goodman, who runs the company.

The car is an Ambassador from India, a design based on the 1950s Morris Oxford, a fact which most fathers of the brides enjoy.

It is one of four in the UK that was imported directly from Calcutta and turned into a work of art, with interiors featuring colourful sequins and beads, and both bumpers festooned with colourful flowers.

Suzie had a Karma Kar for her own wedding in London and loved it so much that she brought Goa Sunset to the South West. She believes she is the only person outside of the capital to have one, so you can guarantee something truly different for your West Country wedding. Karma Kars is based in the Cotswolds but covers all areas within an hour, including Bristol, Bath and Swindon.

Suzie is often asked to do weddings that have a vintage, DIY or rustic theme, as the car is a great complement to this type of celebration.

She also has a lot of requests from South Asian brides, who enjoy having the car as a nod to their heritage.

KARMA KARS T: 01242 248190 W: WWW.KARMAKARSCOTSWOLD.CO.UK

WOMEN SAY “NO” TO PROPOSING Wedding supplier website The Last Detail has done us all a favour by carrying out valuable research about women’s attitudes to proposal.

The project was inspired by the fact that while the leap year brings us The Olympic Games and an extra day, it also “allows” (for those restrained by such conventions) women to propose to men on 29 February.

The survey found that a significant majority of women (51% - more than enough to form a government if the results were repeated in a general election) would never propose to a man.

So tradition rules, leap year or not. Just 29% of women would propose if the time was right while 13% don’t think it matters who proposes. A surprisingly small proportion, just 7%, would try dropping subtle hints to their man to get him to propose. Or maybe this just reflects the possibility that 93% of women are healthily aware of their chap’s likely response to subtle hints.

THE LAST DETAIL W: WWW.THELASTDETAIL.

SECOND’S BEST There’s no finer way for brides on a budget to find the dress of their dreams than searching the rails of second hand, or “pre-loved”, dresses (as many such stores prefer to term them). If, in the process, you’re helping charity with your purchase, the feelgood factor on your wedding day could be sky high.

Great news, then, that cancer research charity Tenovus, which has a fundraising shop in Bristol’s Gloucester Road, is relaunching its Bridal Department this May, showcasing a wonderful selection of pre-owned gowns, which are decidedly popular with engaged women throughout the region.

“I get brides ringing up almost daily to ask about the dresses, and they have travelled from as far afield as Devon to see our collection,” says Tenovus store manager Sheila

Cleary. Indeed, they’re so popular that stocks are diminish rapidly and Tenovus recently ran a photography campaign to encourage the recently-espoused to donate their gowns. Photographer Cate Robbins shot brides in some of the gowns available at Tenovus at north Bristol venue Berwick Lodge.

Tenovus holds an open day to relaunch the Bridal Department on Saturday 12 May and brides wishing to donate their gowns are more than welcome.

TENOVUS 181 GLOUCESTER ROAD, BRISTOL. OPEN 10AM-5PM CATE ROBBINS PHOTOGRAPHY T: 07779 878673 E: CATE@CATEROBBINSPHOTOGRAPHY. CO.UK

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COMPETITION

WIN A Wedding DRESS

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

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pon winning 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 stunning dresses on offer.

The winner can choose any dress up to the value of £1,000. Of course, she can always ask her dad nicely to contribute if the dress she falls in love with happens to cost a little bit more!

Special Day and Appletons of Keynsham offers a fabulous selection of gowns by designers such as Sottero & Midgley, Ellis Bridal, Impression Bridal, Mark Lesley, Bonny Bridal, Opulence by Natalie M & Lou Lou Bridal. Special Day has a wonderful reputation for warm hospitality, helpfulness and professionalism, as well as an array of dresses that are second to none.

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 question 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 s.walsh@bepp.co.uk please mark your subject Competition Entry.

• All entries must be received by 12 AUGUST 2012.

The prize winner will be notified by 2 SEPTEMBER 2012

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 ❏

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4/27/2012 5:44:33 PM

Realweddings

Been around the

WORLD

Instead of having a wedding abroad, Kelly and Dan Garland were able to use technology to bring together the overseas family members who couldn’t make it. Helen Dorritt talks eyelashes and Skype.

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Realweddings Realweddings

FUN IN THE SUN Clockwise from left: Kelly and Dan steal a kiss; the cake featured customised toppers; the sun shone for both ceremony and reception; Winterbourne’s The Grange was the perfect backdrop for photos.

K

elly and Dan first got together when they were just teenagers. “We met when we were 16 years old through a mutual friend, when hanging out in the park was cool,” says Kelly. “We went out for a bit, but it wasn’t serious, so we lost touch. Years later we bumped into each other again at a nightclub.” The path of true love still didn’t run smoothly, however.

“Dan was supposed to set up a date but he never called. I finally saw him again at a bar when he confessed he’d lost my number.” This time Dan was determined not to let Kelly slip away and finally asked her out. Fast forward four years to November 2008 and Dan proposed to Kelly on her birthday, surprising her completely with a princess cut diamond and white gold ring.

Initially Dan favoured an overseas wedding but the desire to have friends and family around them on the day meant they kept it local, with the ceremony at St Mary’s Church in Bitton, followed by a reception at the Grange in Winterbourne. “The Grange was perfect. Everything was in one location for our guests and not far from Bristol,” says Kelly.

“I loved the sweeping driveway and the front of the hotel, with the large spacious grounds, which were also great for photos.”

Some loved ones couldn’t be there but the magic of the internet meant they could still be involved.

“My sister didn’t make the wedding as she lives in Australia so we Skype-d her when we were getting ready at my mum’s house,” says Kelly. “She was able to watch us all having our make-up done and get involved even though she was thousands of miles away on the other side of the world.”

Disaster nearly struck – in the form of eyelash jealousy! “The bridesmaids initially said they didn’t want false eyelashes, but when they saw mine they got really jealous and wanted some too, so the make-up artist had to take a quick dash to Boots 10 minutes before they were due to leave,” laughs Kelly. It also looked like the weather wasn’t going to play ball, since the day started with awful rain and cloud, but by the time of the wedding at 2pm the sun was out and continued to shine all day.

Kelly wore a dress from Clifton Brides, designed

by Blue By Enzoani. Her two adult bridesmaids wore Alfred Angelo dresses in a dusky rose colour – although when both bridesmaids became pregnant, a dressmaker had to work some magic to let them out! The little flower girl wore a BHS dress with a custom made bow, made by the mother of the bride, and all three carried smaller versions of the bride’s bouquet.

Kelly and Dan’s cake was specially created by cake designer Claire Yakub to include figurines of the bride and groom on the top tier and their dog Ziggy on the bottom tier. Guests indulged their sweet tooth with the favours, bags of retro sweets including refreshers, black jacks, fruit salads and sherbet straws.

Dan confessed to getting a little bit nervous as the day got closer, especially regarding his speech.

“I was trying to put some words together when I started to get worried about speaking in front of everyone. In fact, I was more nervous about giving the speech than the actual wedding ceremony! In the end, though, it turned out really well, and after it was finished I was able to relax and thoroughly enjoy the day.”

For Kelly, the wedding was everything she spent three years planning for. “I loved walking down the aisle in my gorgeous dress - I couldn’t stop smiling!

After all the preparation and organisation I was so happy to be getting married to Dan.”

DETAILS Venue (ceremony) St Mary’s Church, Bitton Venue (reception) Mercure Bristol North, The Grange, Old Gloucester Road, Winterbourne BS36 1RP T: 0844 815 9063 W: www.mercure. com/gb/hotel-8323-mercure-bristol-norththe-grange-hotel/index.shtml Photographer Tom Durrant W: www. durrantphotography.com Dress Clifton Brides, 186 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2XU T: 0117 923 7928 W: www.cliftonbrides.co.uk Make-up Leesa Goodway W: www. leesagoodwaymakeupartist.com Groom’s outfit Tux and Tails, 372 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8TP T: 0117 942 9966 W: www.tuxtails.co.uk Cars All Occasion Cars T: 01454 228192 W: www.all-occasions-home.co.uk

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Realweddings

A rickshaw made

FOR TWO Rachel Mylrea and Jay Millington planned an action packed wedding to bring their families together. Helen Dorritt finds out more.

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Realweddings

BHANGRA, BIKES AND BUSES! Guests at Rachel and Jay’s wedding got to enjoy an open topped bus ride, before hitting the dancefloor to throw some bhangra shapes.

R

achel and Jay met through Guardian Soulmates, during Rachel’s week of ‘free love’, the newspaper’s introductory offer. Jay liked her eyes and her profile, in which she said she might be found whizzing downhill on her bicycle, enjoying cake in a café or in an old man’s pub with a pint and a pickled egg. Rachel thought Jay looked cute and liked the fact that he too was into cycling - although his cooking nearly put her off. According to Rachel, “the first few meals Jay cooked for me had anaemic vegetables which were more yellow than green. I pointed this out the second time and found out he was colour blind.”

Even though Jay failed to wow Rachel in the kitchen, they quickly realised they were made for each other and Jay proposed on a flight back to Rachel’s native Isle of Man. He squeezed in between the tiny seats and popped the question as the snow covered island came into view, which took Rachel totally by surprise.

Rachel and Jay were both keen to bring their families and friends together at their wedding, as well as have an informal day with lots of memories to look back on. So they planned an action packed schedule including a cycle rickshaw, open top bus, champagne cream tea, hog roast and a bhangra band.

The wedding took place on 17th September at the Bristol Register Office, followed by a reception at The Square Club in Clifton. “It was a lovely venue and perfect for what we wanted,” says Jay. “The staff were friendly and capable, and we weren’t charged a fortune for hire. In fact it was free to members, so we joined.” The Square Club did all the catering, which included the delicious hog roast. “The hog was only just big enough despite thinking we’d over-ordered to allow for a gathering on Sunday,” says Jay. “The chef said the pig had been ‘decimated’ by our hungry friends.”

Rachel’s dad offered his stellar baking services and made the wedding cake.

Rachel wore a beautiful vintage-style dress from All For Dress which was accessorised with jewellery made by Jay’s sister, a part time jewellery designer.

The couple chose some unusual forms of transport. Rachel and her father elected to get to the register office via cycle rickshaw

DETAILS Reception venue The Square Club, 15 Berkeley Square, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1HB T: 0117 921 0455 W: www.thesquareclub.com Wedding dress All For Dress W: www.allfordress.com Groom’s outfit Austin Reed W: www.austinreed.co.uk Jewellery INKee & DeCo W: www.inkee-deco.co.uk Flowers Sadie Pyle T: 07967 255490 W: www. sadiepyleflowers.com Cupcakes Absolutely Cakes, Unit 52, 60 Westbury Hill, Westbury on Trym, Bristol BS9 3UJ T: 07532 054521 W: www.absolutelycakes.co.uk Rickshaw Pedal Walla T: 0117 230 5080 W: www. pedalwalla.com Open top bus City Sightseeing Bristol T: 0117 367 0208 W: www.citysightseeingbristol.co.uk Photography Ruth Garner T: 07779 008245 W: www.ruthgarnerphotography.com Band RSVP W: www.rsvpmusic.co.uk – she would have cycled herself but was afraid her dress might get caught in the wheels. Unfortunately this meant she kept Jay waiting at the register office, as the journey took longer than initially planned.

“Our poor rickshaw driver was cycling as fast as he could but it was a four mile trip,” laughs Rachel. The couple then hired an open top bus to transport guests to the reception venue. “The bus was great fun - albeit a bit breezy - with a friend doing an impromptu tour with the microphone and almost correct facts.” It nearly caused a minor disaster though: Rachel’s veil made a bid for freedom when the bus drove over the Downs and her brother had to run to catch it. Luckily he eventually managed to retrieve the errant

accessory to cheers from the bus.

Local bhangra band RSVP provided reception entertainment. “The band were such fun and had all the guests up and dancing. They taught everyone a few moves and there was no stopping everyone,” says Jay. After a fantastic reception the couple honeymooned on the Isles of Scilly, which they describe as a cross between the Isle of Man and Jay’s home, Cornwall.

“I felt much more emotional on the day than I thought I would,” says Rachel. “I turned into a bride! But I wish it could have lasted longer – you spend so long planning then it’s over in a flash. I’d have liked it to have gone on for a week.”

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Realweddings

Saying it with

PETALS

For Tallulah and Tomasz Modzelewski, love flickered among the optics before bursting into full blown romance with one of the most elaborate proposals West Weddings has ever encountered.

Kim Deistrage reports.

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Realweddings

EAST MEETS WEST Tallulah and Tom’s wedding was the chance for their families to meet for the first time, with many of Tom’s family coming from Poland

S

he was a trainee croupier at the Gala Casino in Bristol, he was the gregarious barman and colleague. Having just returned from travelling abroad, Tallulah was waiting for her professional licence to come through when her employer put her to work behind the bar, alongside Tom. First impressions certainly counted. “He was cute and good looking,” says Tallulah. “He got on with everyone and I thought he was spoken for at first.” Tom was equally impressed, “She had a cracking smile, a shy nature and angelic, liquid, gold-like hair,” he says. “I fell in love with her relaxed, happy-go-lucky attitude and independence.

Tallu always knows what she wants from life.”

Tom’s proposal alone demonstrated the skills of a wedding planning genius. “I was working on a night shift,” Tallulah recalls. “I was about to finish at 3am when Tom called to ask if I wanted a cup of tea when I got home. My response was, ‘Of course! I’m knackered and I’ll be home in 20 minutes.’ When I walked through our back gate I found candles and rose petals along the garden path. I went into the kitchen to find more candles and little notes leading me up to the bedroom. Tom appeared smartly dressed in a suit and went down on one knee. After all the giggles, I said ‘Yes’ and we celebrated with champagne. But I never got my tea!”

For the wedding, both Tallulah and Tom wanted each other’s families to meet in friendly, intimate surroundings. The couple married at St Gerard Majella Catholic Church, Knowle, Bristol. “The church was very small and that made it more personal,” says Tallulah. “It meant a lot to us and our family that we married in a Catholic church.”

“Many of my friends and family live in Warsaw so I really wanted them all to share one of the happiest moments of my life,” Tom adds.

The rest of the big day was a balance of finding great suppliers while balancing the budget. “I planned everything,” says Tallulah. “I made the table decorations, the table plan, and the invitations. It was enjoyable and lovely to have our own touch but also very stressful. If we’d had more money, I would have paid for it to be done.”

The couple opted for a reception at The Berkeley Square Hotel with catering by the hotel’s The Square Club. “The food was fantastic, and they let us have as much of our own input as possible,” says Tallulah.

“The cake by Patisserie Valerie was just amazing and not as expensive as you might think. We probably had enough cake for two weddings. The flowers by Tilly Tomlinson were lovely and I just wished they had lasted a bit longer.”

With a dress from Just For You Bridal, Tallulah

looked fabulous in her A-line gown featuring a sweetheart neckline, ruched at the waist with a floral feature, while Tom was resplendent in his Moss Bross suit. Photographer Martin Dabek was on hand to capture all those precious moments.

“Martin’s exceptional service was well worth every penny,” says Tallulah. “We are still in contact now.

He did everything he was asked to and more. I would recommend him to everyone!

“As Tom’s family all come from Poland, we ditched the champagne and went for vodka shots, which sounds messy but it wasn’t all,” she continues. “It resulted in lots of happy people and loads of dancing.

It was fantastic. Every time I look back at our photos it puts a smile on my face.”

The couple have now moved on in their professional lives, with Tom becoming a physiotherapy technician at Bristol’s BRI, while Tallulah works at a foreign exchange company. But they both remember their wedding day with absolute fondness.

“I can’t think of one thing I would change,” she says. “The weather was perfect, Tom’s look on his face when I walked down the aisle was perfect and even my family managed to behave themselves.”

Tom adds, “It was an epic day, emotional, full of love and warmth. We gathered together an exceptional bunch of loopy people and I knew things would just fall into place. I’m very proud to be Tallulah’s husband and, hopefully soon enough, a daddy.”

DETAILS Venue (ceremony) St Gerard Majella Catholic Church, Knowle, Bristol Venue (reception) & catering The Square Club, 15 Berkeley Square, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1HB W: www.thesquareclub.com Flowers Tilly Tomlinson Flowers W: www. tillytomlinsonflowers.co.uk Gown Just for You Bridal W: www. justforyoubridal.co.uk Cake Patisserie Valerie W: www.patisserievalerie.co.uk Photography PhotoDabek W: www. photodabek.co.uk

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

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Realweddings

Love on the

MILL Kirsty and James Edwards wanted to get married to the sound of running water. Helen Dorritt feels the temperature.

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fter striking up a conversation at a bar in Bristol, Kirsty and James fell in love during a summer of dinners, cocktails and festivals. The following year James surprised Kirsty with a romantic weekend away to Fowey in Cornwall, which had been the place where they’d had their first holiday together. One fish and chip supper and gold solitaire diamond ring later, Kirsty said “Yes!” to James’s question, and the couple started planning their September 2011 wedding.

Kirsty and James chose Priston Mill outside Bath for the ceremony and reception. “It’s surrounded by gardens, rolling hills and cows,” says Kirsty. “A dream for James, who grew up in Yorkshire and Somerset and is a country bumpkin through and through. It felt so peaceful and the mill was really quirky ➻ WEST WEDDINGS 25

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Realweddings

MADE WITH LOVE The cake was made by a family friend and featured a topper of Kirsty and James with their ginger cat Boris

with so much character. As we got engaged by water it felt fitting to say our vows whilst listening to the splashing of a water wheel that used to mill flour.”

Since good food was an important requirement of the day for them, the couple took advantage of Priston Mill’s renowned chefs and chose a delicious three course menu that featuring pickled trout for starters. “We had a tasting before the big day and felt we were on Masterchef trying all the dishes!” laughs Kirsty.

She went with a vintage feel for her wedding dress, wearing a Forget Me Not fishtail and lace gown, bought at Clifton Brides in Bristol, teamed with a lace bolero, a diamante-encrusted belt, peep toe shoes with diamante detailing and a beautiful headdress

by Nala from Halo and Co. Dapper James opted to wear grey tails.

Wanting wild seasonal flowers with a natural, just-picked feel, Kirsty and James headed to Bristol florists Bella and Fifi who specialise in locally grown and organic blooms. The bouquets and decorations used purple delphinium, butter yellow roses, lavender and lisianthus, and there were ivy garlands with splashes of yellow woven around the banisters of the mill. Kirsty also loved the beautiful garland Bella and Fifi made for the flower girl, her 4-year-old niece.

“It made her look like a woodland fairy!” The men’s buttonholes featured rosemary and lavender to represent love and fidelity.

The day’s events were expertly recorded by photographer Graham Morgan, as well as being filmed by Richard Saunders from Aurora Videos. “They both captured it all so well, without us really noticing they were there,” Kirsty says.

Despite being an experienced project manager, who double- and triple-checked the arrangements, there were still some things that Kirsty couldn’t plan for on the day, which included being 45 minutes late for the ceremony. “Being so late for my groom, while the registrar also had the wrong time in her diary were all unexpected,” she recalls. With this in mind, Kirsty offers this tip for other brides: “Don’t sweat the small stuff. None of it was really important on the day. James and

I got married surrounded by everyone special in our lives. The whole day was filled with joy and our parents couldn’t stop telling us how proud they were of us. As long as you are marrying the man you love, everything else is minor.”

For James, the best part of the day was seeing Kirsty walk down the aisle. “I was on edge because she was running so late but when I saw her in her dress for the first time it was so overwhelming. I had a little tear in my eye when I saw her.” Kirsty agrees that the ceremony was her favourite part. “I remember after signing the register holding James’s hand while our friend Rob sang an acoustic version of ‘Hey Ya’ by Outkast, looking at our parents smiling their heads off, thinking ‘this is the most brilliant feeling right now.’”

DETAILS Venue Priston Mill, Priston, Bath BA2 9EQ T: 01225 423894 W: www.pristonmill.co.uk Photographer Graham Morgan, The Dispensary, 8 Cleveland Place East, Bath BA1 5DJ T: 01225 461100 W: www.grahammorgan. com Bride’s dress Clifton Brides, 186 Whiteladies Road, Bristol BS8 2XU T: 0117 923 7928 W: www.cliftonbrides.co.uk Groom’s outfit Tux & Tails, 372 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8TP T: 0117 942 9966 W: www.tuxtails.com Flowers Bella and Fifi T: 07505 841528 W: www.bellafififlowers.co.uk Cars AJE Classics, Codrington, South Gloucestershire T: 01454 600072 W: www. ajeclassics.co.uk Make-up Sarah Brock T: 07976 064143 W: www.sarahbmakeup.co.uk Videographer Aurora Video T: 01495 230878 W: www.auroravideo.co.uk

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SOLITAIRE DELADA PHASE EIGHT BRIDESMAIDS’ FASHION

gowns GownInspiration

Attitude is

EVERYTHING “That don’t impress me much,” sang pop star Shania Twain back in 1997, but one thing that did impress her were the styles of French design house Lambert Creations. In fact she liked them so much that she chose one, Fidji, for her gown at her own wedding last year. Lambert specialises in designs which bring classical elegance together with rock and roll attitude. Indeed, one of its creations, Rock, is even inspired by a Harley-Davidson leather biker’s jacket – something for the truly adventurous bride.

The great thing is, the dresses are available locally and, pop star connections notwithstanding, are aimed at the budgetconscious. “We wanted to offer customers a designer label at an affordable price and Lambert Creations offer a sophisticated, chic feel,” says Lucy Carter of Solitaire Brides Bath, which stocks the designer.

“The gowns are very French, using silk and French taffetas and other beautiful fabrics.

They also provide accessories so dresses can be customised. They come with sashes, trains and fascinators in any colour.”

LOCAL STOCKISTS INCLUDE: SOLITAIRE BRIDES BATH 69 HIGH STREET, MIDSOMER NORTON, RADSTOCK, BATH BA3 2DQ T: 01761416699 W: WWW. SOLITAIREBRIDES.CO.UK

Fidji The dress that Shania Twain was married in is a plain yet elegant fishtail dress with sash and other accessories available in any colour.➻ WEST WEDDINGS 27

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GownInspiration

Clockwise from left: Bamba A beautifully floaty creation with a lace overlay, A-line skirt and sweet-heart neckline plus ruched bodice and bow at the side.

The billowing lace and floral detail design is a classy bridal take on the French peasant dress: Cinderella-meets-Kate Middleton, if you like.

Polka For those who prefer the classic look with a sprinkle of Hollywood glamour, this slimline gown, with strapless artdeco influenced bodice, will wow traditionalists and lovers of contemporary taste equally.

Tarantelle The dishevelled look perfected, this design is a sassy halter neck bodice with a crumpled fishtail finish. âžť

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BRISTOL | CARDIFF | SWANSEA | MUMBLES

Bristol & West major stockist of Maggie Sottero Pronovias Ian Stuart Justin Alexander Mark Lesley Anouska G Intuzuri 47 Queens Road The Triangle, Clifton Bristol, BS8 1QQ 0117 9349426

www.allisonjayne.com p29.indd 1

4/26/2012 1:06:42 PM

A Class Brides Your wedding day is all about you!

0117 919 3007 67 Sandy Park Road, Brislington, Bristol, BS4 3PQ www.aclassbrides.co.uk

~ Extensive range of stunning Bridal gowns ~ Bridesmaids dresses in 55 colours ~ Mother of the Bride outfits & headwear ~ Designers include Allure, Alfred Angelo & White One by Pronovias ~ Veils, shoes, jewellery & more ~ Prom & Evening wear ~ Affordable, quality, design ~ Open 6 days a week - including Sundays

Victoria Park Bridal 2 Cork Place Upper Bristol Rd Bath BA1 3BB 01225 471505

info@victoriaparkbridal.co.uk

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www.victoriaparkbridal.co.uk

4/27/2012 2:47:11 PM

GownInspiration Clockwise from right: Hora Another bold, modern design with a businessy-feel for brides with steely determination. The lacey bow adds dramatic femininity while the rock-style choker can be substituted for other accessories to create a completely different look.

Rock This totally “out there� design is for the most daring souls only. Based on the Harley-Davidson leather jacket look, the waistcoat pulls together a jagged lace, above-the-knee skirt for a bride out to make a statement. Pictured with and without jacket.

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GownInspiration

SO WHAT’S THE

Royal Lilly The long version of this gorgeous gown clings to the curves while retaining a classy elegance. The pretty lily-style fabric detail at the waist lends this creation modernity by the bucketload, while the high neckline harks back to 60s chic. The fabric is a silk/wool mix. Price £1,733 . The short version (pictured) offers more of the same with added summer comfort.

Wedding BELLES

The summer range by Surrey fashion house Delada has several gowns which would be as at home on the aisle as they evidently are on the catwalk, with model April Summers sporting one of their creations at this year’s Princes Trust Valentine’s Ball.

The gowns, in either 100 per cent silk or in a silk/ wool mix are the epitome of understated style, with simple cuts which show off the figure wonderfully.

Availability is currently via the Delada website although the company tells us that a West Country stockist is not out of the question in the future.

Madonna Lilly A simple, classic fit in 100 per cent silk with an unusual stencil effect around the hip and waist, which really exudes contemporary appeal. The slimline cut and high neckline offer sassy modesty. Price £1,195

STOCKISTS INCLUDE: DELADA SOLANA HOUSE, RODONA HOUSE, WEYBRIDGE, SURREY KT13 0NP W: WWW.DELADA.CO.UK

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GownInspiration

High street CLASS

For a budget yet elegant approach to choosing your gown, Phase Eight has a range of bridal styles available via its own stores, as well as concessions in some of the nation’s best known retailers. With gown prices ranging from £130 - £450, plus accessories, Phase Eight’s Bridal Boutique could be a great place to start for brides that want to shop around.

Head designer Judith Bremner has developed a range of simple, classic styles with a generally patterned feel, which offers a coutured look without the price tag.

While the gowns need to be ordered online, they can be delivered to a store or concession near you to try on, while some concessions stock the designs themselves.

Check website or phone for full details. ➻ LOCAL STORES INCLUDE: PHASE EIGHT BATH 2 BROAD STREET, BATH BA1 5LJ T: 01225 444228 HOUSE OF FRASER CABOT CIRCUS, BRISTOL BS1 3BD T: 0844 800 3710 HOUSE OF FRASER THE PROMENADE, CHELTENHAM GL50 1HP T: 01242 233955 DEBENHAMS KINGS SQUARE, GLOUCESTER GL1 1SH T: 0844 561 6161 JOHN LEWIS CRIBBS CAUSEWAY BS34 5QU T: 0117 959 1100 PHASE EIGHT ONLINE W: WWW.PHASE-EIGHT.CO.UK

Maria This dress plays on current popularity for contemporary vintage design. The illusion neckline gives it a traditional feel but with modern sleeveless daring.

Paloma Heavily embroidered, this gown has a Great Gatsby feel - the chic of the 1920s brought back to life today. The fitted bodice will look fantastic on a figure that wants to be seen, while the small train adds some wedding day swish.

Avery The metallic thread embroidered, A-line style is simple but sophisticated.

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GownInspiration

Clockwise from left: Elspeth Another historic fashion is recreated – this time Cleopatra’s ancient Egypt, complete with “gold necklace” feature built into the bodice, holding together a simple, pleated design.

Firenze With its low V neckline, high waist and bouquet motif, this gown offers affordable continental style.

Gabriella A high neckline and sleeveless top, pulled together with a satin bow, this is a must for fans of all things 1950s.

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Alison Miles Couture

Image courtesy of www.captureit.co.uk

Contemporary and Traditional Wedding Contemporary and traditional Wedding Gowns individually designed and made Gownstoindividually designed and made measure in the most beautiful silks to measure in the most beautiful silks Enquiries/appointments Tel: 01225 336805

Email: alison@alisonmiles.co.uk enquiries/appointments tel: 01225 336805 www.alisonmiles.com www.alisonmiles.com

Arrive in style with a

White Diamond Chauffeur.

For a stunning wedding car, White Diamond Chauffeur’s gorgeous white Audi Q7 and stylish female chauffeur ensure that you get the luxury you deserve. Your 7 seater luxury vehicle promises more than just a grand entrance, the luxury treatment continues with free soft drinks and canapés, free champagne for wedding parties.

Contact White Diamond Chauffeur today for a free quote.

07979 918 661 www.whitediamondchauffeur.co.uk

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Cissie Designs Come to us for your special flowergirl dresses. All made in England at our shop in Bristol. Designed and made by A.M.K in a variety of colours and fabrics. Sizes range from newborn to a childs size 8. Prices range from £35 to £85. Call in to view our collection and you will be welcomed by friendly and helpful staff.

Open: Tues to Sat 9.30am till 5pm 254 Soundwell Road Kingswood Bristol BS15 1PN Tel/Fax 01179671888 www.cissiedesigns.co.uk email: shop@cissiedesigns.com

4/27/2012 10:27:47 AM

GownInspiration

Tailor

MAID

Charlotte Harrison and Jessica Macdonald discover the elements of a perfect autumn wedding.

O

nce you’ve picked your dress, it’s time to start considering what you’re going to be dressing your best girls in. Luckily the days of limited choice for your bridesmaids are long gone and there are plenty of specifically-designed bridesmaids ranges that will leave you spoilt for choice.

“We’re finding that brides are choosing more fashionforward style rather than ‘traditional’ bridesmaid dresses,” says Jacqui Baker from White Lace and Promises. “For summer, short styles in floaty chiffons are popular, as are jewel colours – sapphire blues, sunshine yellows and jade greens.”

ROMANTICA

In bright rainbow hues and a wide range of fabrics, Romantica of Devon’s bridesmaid dresses will create a splash of colour in a wedding. Every style is available in at least 50 colours which means there’ll be no problem getting the shade you want, and since all gowns come in sizes 8-32 as standard, size won’t be an issue either.

The business is still familyowned and run in the West Country, meaning your bridesmaids will be wearing the best of British.

Left and above: Romantica’s rainbow hues are available in 50 colours.

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GownInspiration

Small is

BEAUTIFUL

DESSY

After years of running Celtic Brides, a successful wedding gown shop in Bristol, Angela Knowson was ready for a new venture. With a passion for creativity and an eye for detail, she has launched Cissie Designs, a range of flowergirl dresses.

Talented Angela not only designs the dresses, but also makes them herself. “What makes Cissie Designs special is that all the dresses are made right here in our shop in Bristol, rather than being made in a factory in China,” explains Angela. As well as ensuring a great fit and excellent quality, having a dress made in the UK means that your conscience is clear on your wedding day about the conditions in which the dress was made.

You’d expect a handmade dress to have a hefty price tag, but Cissie Designs’ dresses are extremely competitive, with prices ranging from £35 to £85.

Angela makes them in a variety of sizes, from newborn to child’s size 8, and uses different fabrics and colours, so you’re guaranteed to find one that fits in with your colour scheme.

The name of the company is also very personal to Angela. “I chose the name Cissie Designs in memory of my mam, who was called Cecilia Cissie for short,” she says.

Anyone interested in seeing the full Cissie Designs collection can call into its shop from Tuesdays to Saturdays. Angela guarantees a warm welcome from her friendly and helpful staff.

The Dessy range of bridesmaid dresses comes in so many colours and styles that you will have a hard time deciding on just the one for your maids! As well as the main Dessy line there are also the diffusion ranges Lela Rose, Alfred Sung and the Social Collection, plus the versatile Twist Wrap dress and Junior Bridesmaids for your younger bridesmaids. In fabric ranging from shantung silk to chiffon and pleated cotton faille, and every style from halter neck to strapless, Dessy is the go-to range for the bride who likes a lot of choice.

CONTACTS ANNE HARDING 90-92 SHIREHAMPTON ROAD, STOKE BISHOP, BRISTOL BS9 2DR T: 0117 968 3074 W: WWW.ANNEHARDING. COM SPECIAL DAY AND APPLETONS 12 HIGH STREET, KEYNSHAM, BRISTOL BS31 1DQ T: 0117 986 0303 W: WWW. SPECIALDAYANDAPPLETONS.CO.UK WHITE LACE AND PROMISES 246 MILTON ROAD, WESTON-SUPER-MARE BS22 8AQ T: 01934 647934 W: WWW.WHITELACEANDPROMISES.CO.UK FUTURE BRIDES 42 HIGH STREET, CHIPPING SODBURY BS37 6AH T: 01454 311722 W: WWW. FUTUREBRIDES.CO.UK JUST FOR YOU BRIDAL YORK HOUSE, BOND STREET, BRISTOL BS1 3LQ T: 0117 942 8900 W: WWW.JUSTFORYOUBRIDAL.CO.UK

Above: Dessy will dress bridesmaids in everything from chiffon to shantung silk.

LOCAL STOCKISTS INCLUDE: CISSIE DESIGNS 254 SOUNDWELL ROAD, KINGSWOOD, BRISTOL BS15 1PN T: 0117 967 1888 W: WWW.CISSIEDESIGNS.CO.UK E: SHOP@CISSIEDESIGNS.COM

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GownInspiration The Charlotte Embroidered lace and duchess silk satin corseted bodice with a duchess silk satin riding skirt. Price on order.

The Giverny A cloud grey ombre georgette long evening dress with printed wild flowers hand ruched across the front and back of the body and flowing down the side.

Price on order.

The Jemima An old English ivory corded hand appliqué lace wedding dress with a scalloped sweetheart neckline and flared train.

Price on order.

Catherine

COMES HOME Those readers old enough to remember an earlier royal wedding may recall that, although Princess Diana opted for a gown by David and Elizabeth Emanuel in 1981, she later favoured the independent British designer Catherine Walker for many of her wardrobe requirements, notably her famous Elvis dress, which appears at an exhibition of British ballgowns at London’s V&A Museum this summer. Although Catherine sadly died in 2010 and is remembered for her creative, enigmatic and undemonstrative contribution to British fashion, her company, Catherine Walker & Co, celebrates its 35th anniversary this year with a range of wedding dresses of its own. The range combines elegance, intricate detail and a welcome splash of colour in places. The gowns are only available in Catherine Walker’s Chelsea, London, store, so a decision to wear one on your big day will require a trip to the Big Smoke. But, if you have the desire and the budget to match, you may well find yourself sharing the style of some of Britain’s most celebrated fashionistas as you walk down the aisle.

STOCKIST: CATHERINE WALKER & CO 65 SYDNEY STREET, CHELSEA, LONDON SW3 6PX. T: 0207 352 4626 W: WWW.CATHERINEWALKER.COM 38 WEST WEDDINGS

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GownInspiration

MA, HE’S

MAKING EYES AT YOU

Although it’s their children in the spotlight, the mothers in the bridal party still need to look glamorous. Louise Jarndyce reports.

W

omen these days don’t want frumpy outfits but equally they want to avoid the dreaded ‘mutton dressed as lamb look’.” After years of selling wedding outfits, Jacqui Sweeting, owner of Special Day and Appletons boutique in Keynsham, knows exactly what mothers of the bride and bridegroom would like. “They want to look chic and stylish.”

Fashion has evolved for the mother of the bride (and bridegroom) in recent years. As Jacqui rightly points out, just because a woman’s daughter or son are getting married doesn’t mean she’s no longer interested in looking at her fashionable best, and it’s this ethos that influences Special Day and Appletons’ mother of the bride stocks.

“We carry well over 200 different outfits,” says Jacqui. “We guarantee you’ll find something you like and that looks great. We also only carry one size of each style, which ensures exclusivity – you can be sure that no-one else will have the same dress as you.”

Special Day and Appletons’ top two labels are John Charles and Linea Raffaeli. Both of these designers use the style most popular with mothers: the knee length dress with bolero jacket.

“Mothers of the bride love that look - it’s our fastest seller,” reports Jacqui - and you can see why.

A knee length dress is flattering on all shapes, and a jacket looks smart as well as practical in the uncertain British weather.

Bakos Boutique in Bristol, which specialises in mother of the bride fashion, has also noticed the popularity of the dress and jacket combination.

“Silk is always a popular fabric, and we sell a lot of ‘floaty’ dresses with matching jacket,” says Julie from Bakos. The shop sells off-the-peg outfits by designers such as Ronald Joyce, ➻

Mother of the bride outfits by Ronald Joyce (left) and John Charles

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GownInspiration

Clockwise form left: outfits by Bakos, John Charles and Dessy (style 2760)

Capri by Mon Cheri, Alison and Michaela Louisa, as well as offering a bespoke service through the Jasmine Bridal Jade collection.

We asked what colours were looking popular for summer 2012, but learned that mother of the bride fashion operates outside seasonal trends and colours. “They either pick a dress that complements the colours of the wedding party, to match or tone in with the bridesmaids’ dresses, or they opt for a neutral shade, such as taupe, silver or gold that blends in well with the ivory or cream of the bride’s dress,” says Jacqui.

Julie agrees, noting that Bakos sells a lot of outfits in taupes and creams.

If colour co-ordination or complementing other members of the bridal party is important, then it’s worth considering dressing both bridesmaids and the mother of the bride in a Dessy dress. Originally designed for just bridesmaids, the Dessy range has found favour with mothers of the bride who would like their dress style or shade to match with these other important ladies. “There is such a great range of colours and fabrics, which means it’s very flexible,” says Sonia from Bristolbased bridal shop Anne Harding, which stocks all of the Dessy ranges. “So the mother of the bride and the bridesmaids can have different styles of dresses, but have the same colour.” If you’re looking for a complementary colour rather than a complete match, then Dessy’s use of the Pantone colour system will ensure that you can pick hues that look harmonious. Our favourite from this range is style 2760, a tea-length

silk shantung pencil dress, with a collared threequarter length sleeve jacket. The dress and jacket both come in 19 colours so you can mix and match or keep them both in one shade.

Once the outfit is picked, it’s time to start considering accessories. Jacqui reports that the hottest headgear right now is the ‘hatinator’. While this sounds like something from an Arnold Swarzenegger movie, it’s actually a cross between a hat and a fascinator, and something that Kate Middleton is often seen wearing. After years of dominance by the fascinator, Julie has also noticed a recent upsurge in the popularity of traditional hats. “If a woman only has one daughter, this is her only chance to be the mother of the bride, so we’ve noticed that women are going all out and buying a hat. After all, there aren’t many opportunities when you can wear one.” Bakos stocks a full range of hats, fascinators and jewellery, some of which are designed and made by Julie. And if you find an accessory you like but it’s not in the right colour, never fear as Special Day and Appletons can dye shoes, handbags and fascinators to match your outfit, thus ensuring complete colour co-ordination.

So throw away the idea that mothers of the bride are doomed to wear ruched pastels, and instead rejoice in the brilliant range of outfits and accessories available that will make you look and feel absolutely fabulous. In fact, you may have to be careful that you don’t upstage the bride!

CONTACTS ANNE HARDING 90-92 SHIREHAMPTON ROAD, STOKE BISHOP, BRISTOL BS9 2DR T: 0117 968 3074 W: WWW.ANNEHARDING.COM BAKOS BOUTIQUE 50 HIGH STREET, WESTBURY-ONTRYM, BRISTOL BS9 3DZ T: 0117 950 4909 W: WWW. BAKOSBOUTIQUE.CO.UK SPECIAL DAY AND APPLETONS 12 HIGH STREET, KEYNSHAM, BRISTOL BS31 1DQ T: 0117 986 0303 W: WWW.SPECIALDAYANDAPPLETONS.CO.UK

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grooms Grooms

CELEBRATION HOT TRENDS INSPIRATION

From suits to entertainment to the all-important engagement rings, grooms have some serious decisions to make.

HE WILL survive

Inspired by Shandon Fowler’s ‘The Groom’s Instruction Manual’, ex-bride Jemima Owen offers some handy tips to grooms who may need a lifeboat.

W

hen I married my groom, Mike, he blundered through the guest list, just about managed to select fitting suits, booked a band and proudly got creative with our invitations. This was his first foray into the world of wedding organisation – such things had never entered his mind before – and, by and large, he was clueless.

But what groom isn’t? Yet he managed.

A few months ago a copy of Shandon Fowler’s ‘The Groom’s Instruction Manual’ found its way through my letterbox. It was funny, irreverent and quirky and I just wished it had been out in time to help Mike through his travails. But it did inspire me to expand and enhance some of Mr Fowler’s tips which certainly would have helped my groom in his hour of need.

THE ENGAGEMENT RING Perhaps the first question for a groom is, “What engagement ring should I choose?” The four Cs are crucial; colour, cut, carat weight and clarity. Think about your fiancée. Does she prefer Gucci to TK Maxx?

The carat weight will be important (heavier the better). Does she wear white gold more than yellow gold? Has she planned your wedding from

the day she learnt the word? She will notice every flaw with the clarity (dodge a ring with inclusions) and colour (it should be colourless). Does she have a regular manicure or not? A girly girl will definitely notice the cut of a diamond (look for a sparkly one).

THE GUEST LIST The potential for a family ruckus is high. Do you care deeply about who’s there or will you be happy if the bride chooses the list, allowing you just the occasional mate? If you want to get stuck in, understand that there will be arguments and people will be brutally honest.

You will need to compromise and you may regret ever getting involved. Or leave the guest list with the others. It’s up to you.

YOUR SUIT This will definitely be a job for you, unless your fiancée has already chosen your outfit. Be prepared before you shop. What colours are in your wedding? Are you getting married on a beach or in a medieval castle? Can your ushers afford to go to Paul Smith or is Burtons more suitable?

BOOKING THE BAND Music helps create the perfect atmosphere; classy, contemporary, oldschool or disco. Which one is yours? Listen to

This book could save your life: vital reading for any man embarking on the route to the altar

bands before you hire them, understand the tone you and your fiancée want to create and you’ll avoid accidentally ending up with rock ‘n’ roll instead of cocktail elegance.

HIRING A PHOTOGRAPHER Your photos are memories frozen in time, so this needs to be done right. Hire someone who has a sparkling reputation and pay the price. Your fiancée may dislike, even hate you, for cutting the budget on her shoes, but she will appreciate your decision once it’s over. I know I did.

These are only a few things you might have to endure through the planning of your big day. But if you apply careful thought to everything, you’ll groom well. It’s about you and your fiancée and at the core of every decision you make should always be the thought, “What would she like?”

CONTACT THE GROOM’S INSTRUCTION MANUAL BY SHANDON FOWLER, QUIRK BOOKS (PAPERBACK), £8.15. WWW.QUIRKBOOKS.COM

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Grooms

T ’ N I A HE

Y V A E H ghti l f o e e rang grooms. h t t a s look r summer n e w aO e fo Jemim suits availabl weight

Linen jacket £199, linen trousers £99, navy gingham shirt £59, spotted handkerchief £25, all Austin Reed

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Grooms

Anne Harding’s lightweight mohair grey tail suit (lefthand picture) and Grey Prestige tails from Special Day & Appletons

A

s soon as summer peeks through those grey clouds, we instantly throw out our dark, heavy clothes and bring out a lighter, more colourful wardrobe in the hope that this year we’ll get our British tan. It’s the ‘done’ thing, a ritual almost. If that sun pops out, our jeans come off and our shorts come on.

So, for a summer wedding, with the sun grazing our pale skin and the bright flowers springing up, grooms should do themselves a favour by swapping those dark and heavy suits for the now in-trend lightweight suits.

The fabric of your wedding suit is a huge consideration when tying the knot in the sun.

You don’t want to be dressed head to toe in a material that’s going to weigh you down all day.

Linen suits are often associated with destination weddings in the bewildering heat of the Caribbean, but when it’s warm in Britain, linen suits can be a dream-come-true for grooms. The fabric breathes well and can absorb moisture while still feeling dry to the touch. As long as you keep the suit from crumpling this can be the perfect choice.

“Austin Reed linen suits are an extremely popular choice for summer weddings due to the lightweight feel of the fabric,” says Jo O’Brien of Austin Reed. “We offer a wide range of lighter weight suits, from cottons to various linens and linen blends. Our wool linen blend is great for warmer climates, as the linen gives that cooler, lightweight feel, while the wool makes you look that bit smarter than a 100% linen suit would.”

Although a linen suit can look smart, it might

not tick that traditional box. But never fear, summer options can still be traditional. Anne Harding in Bristol stocks a range of traditional wedding suits, including tails, that are made from lighter fabrics and therefore ideal for warmer weather.

“Our most popular suits for summer weddings are grey mohair suits and tails. They don’t crease like linen and are 50% lighter in weight,” says Lee from Anne Harding.

Christopher Sweeting, part owner of Special Day & Appletons, has also noticed the popularity of traditional suits, even in the warmer months.

“Our grooms tend to go for light grey suits for a summer wedding,” he says.

Grey is certainly a popular colour, but you could also opt for suits in blue or brown. “We offer some lovely wool mohairs in stronger blues which are perfect for a summer wedding,” Jo O’Brien says. “For this type of suit, I would recommend a three

piece suit as it looks more occasion-wear, or I’d opt for a one button and peak lapel, as it looks less like a suit you would wear to the office and more special for a summer wedding.”

If sombre colours just don’t cut it for your wedding in the sun, there is another option: white. While the general rule states that the mother of the bride, the mother of the groom and other female guests should never wear white to a wedding, there’s nothing to say a groom can’t. A white suit can be perfect for a summer wedding, drawing out the brightness of the season, matching well with your bride and appearing rather dashing at the same time. Alec Guinness eat your heart out.

CONTACT ANNE HARDING 90-92 SHIREHAMPTON ROAD, BRISTOL T: 0117 068 3074 W: WWW. ANNEHARDING.COM AUSTIN REED 84 QUEEN’S AVENUE, BRISTOL BS8 1SB T: 0117 926 0910 W: WWW. AUSTINREED.CO.UK SPECIAL DAY & APPLETONS 12 HIGH STREET, KEYNSHAM, BRISTOL BS31 1DQ T: 0117 986 0303 W: WWW. SPECIALDAYANDAPPLETONS.CO.UK

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Grooms

Guess Me’s silver, round Roman numeral watch with bracelet strap. £115 from Debenhams

A fob watch can add a touch of timeless elegance.

Sekonda men’s cream dial with leather strap, £30, Debenhams

Time of YOUR LIFE

As the seconds tick away before the bride arrives, asks Jemima Owen, has the groom made the right choice? Between fob or wrist watch, of course.

T

Infinite men’s black quartz dial with leather strap, £25 from Debenhams

he bride’s shoes and jewellery are not the only important accessory on a wedding day. The groom has one accessory that can transform him into either James Bond or Clark Gable - the watch. Does he go for the swanky ‘shaken not stirred’ look or the classic ‘Gone with the Wind’ style? This is an important decision.

Even the white rabbit in ‘Alice in Wonderland’ chose a fob watch, but there are pros and cons to each decision.

Like a wedding theme, these style-opposing watches can either be contemporary or traditional.

For some it’s a day to be elegant and charming, a day to set them apart from their usual, casual self.

For others it’s a day to show some swagger, to be the cinematic person they dream of being.

Wrist watches are perfect for fashionable grooms finishing off their look with a handsome timepiece.

Like your wedding bands, wrist watches come in silver or gold, so you would do well to match these accessories. An impressed bride is always a good thing. You could even go for a two-tone watch, mixing in gold and silver.

If you’re not a metal watch-wearer but prefer a hardy strap, you could choose from a sophisticated black, a summer-perfect shade of light brown or even a fluorescent green, if you dare. Another appealing factor is that wrist watches are equally appropriate for our budget-tied or splashing-out grooms.

“We aim to make all our brands affordable,” Debenhams’ watch buyer, Andrea Keniston says.

“Our Red Herring and Mantaray watches range between £20 - £30. However, we still cater for

grooms interested in the higher price range. Our multi dial watches are our most popular style.”

A smart alternative is a fob watch, always a popular choice for grooms. Such an extravagant accessory may not find its way back on you once your big day is over, so take this opportunity to indulge in something classic and timeless. Unless you already have one in the antique desk in your father’s study, you could find a number of fob watches at Paul Richards. ‘We carry a range of fob watches that start from £22.99, including plain silver or gold case, scroll patterned case and straight lettering or numerical,’ says owner, Paul Richards.

If you’re a soon-to-be bride reading this, why not buy your fiancé a special wedding day gift? Is he likely to be a Bond or a Gable groom? What would you like him to be? Many jewellers provide the option of having their watches personalised. Fob watches are especially perfect, as these are likely to last much longer than wrist watches.

Grooms, whatever the style of watch you end up with on your wrist, just remember one thing. The watch is there not only as an accessory, but also to get you to the church on time. There are no excuses now.

CONTACTS DEBENHAMS 1-5 ST JAMES BARTON, BRISTOL BS1 3LT W: WWW.DEBENHAMS.COM PAUL RICHARDS WAISTCOATS 4 GREYHOUND WALK, THE GALLERIES, BROADMEAD, BRISTOL BS1 3XA T: 0117 929 8749

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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.

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!

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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.

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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 51

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Our summer wedding WeddingsShowcase

SHOWCASE

With its paintings by Gainsborough and Zoffany alongside 18th century architecture, one of Bath’s most recognisable institutions provided a breathtaking backdrop for our celebration of summer wedding fashion.

ESTATE of

GRACE Words: Mike Gartside & Helen Dorritt Photography: David Brewin

1 The Holburne Museum now welcomes brides and grooms into its beautiful building and grounds.

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WeddingsShowcase

2 Simone by Allure, with its delicate flower detail. The dress is priced at £1,489 3 The Holburne's staircase is a great backdrop for photos

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4 Chris's calla lily bouquet provides a delicate splash of colour against the floral detailing of the dress

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he excitement was palpable. As our team of wedding specialists gathered among the neo-classical columns of Bath’s Holburne Museum on a glorious summery morning, there was a wonderful buzz in the air. We had a beautiful “bride”, Laura, from Bristol’s Room 3 Agency, while David Hill-Souch, company director, no less, of Bath agency Shoot DHS was to be our “groom”. What’s more, there can be few locations for a wedding quite as palatial as this elegant Bath institution. Positioned at the very end of the Georgian city’s ceremonial avenue, Great Pulteney Street, the museum has views along the historic thoroughfare towards Pulteney Bridge and the overlooking hills. We were here to showcase a variety of contemporary wedding styles at an historic venue, re-opened last year after an £11.2 million refurbishment, and ready to welcome weddings for the first time. With our gowns, accessories, make-up bags and a treasure chest of photographic wizardry, we demonstrated the very different ways a happy couple can celebrate their marriage here in glorious sunny style.

Our team of wedding experts put together four wedding looks for the day, featuring beautiful dresses selected by Luisa Fisher from Victoria Park Bridal, accessories chosen by Amanda Davis-Harrison at Bridezillas, flowers by Chris Morison and hair and make-up by Ria Jones from the Bristol salon Hush.

LOOK NO.1

You’ll be bang on trend with our first gown, Simone by Allure, which has tulle with organza flowers and satin ribbon. “The trumpet skirt, strapless neckline and horizontal stripes combine to create a very flattering silhouette,” said Luisa. “This is one of our small range of couture dresses.”

To complement the delicate flower detail of the dress, Amanda from Bridezillas paired it with a tiara made

by Port Out Starboard Home (POSH), which features AB crystals and white Swarovski ➻

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WeddingsShowcase

5 Laura models Allure's Simone dress with a POSH crystal tiara from Bridezillas. as she climbs the elegant staircase to the galleries

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19 AUG 2012

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WeddingsShowcase

6 David and Laura's outfits match the elegance of their surroundings 7 The back of Allure's Ginger dress, £690, is as stunning as the front

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6 pearls, along with a Swarovski pearl bracelet by Madeline Isaac-James. “I chose these because they reflect the detail of the dress,” said Amanda.

“I didn’t give Laura a necklace because I didn’t want any overstatement as there’s a lot going on with the dress.” Laura carried a bouquet of pale green calla lilies accompanied by lime green vibernum, plus a selection of mixed foliages in a classic design. “I wanted a fresh and summery look to complement the dress, which also reflects the layers in the dress,” explained Chris.

As the dress was backless, Ria went for a classic “up” do, with a pin-curl finish at the back. Her biggest challenge was working with Laura’s long, curly hair. “She has very thick hair and there’s a tendency for the ends to get frizzy, so I used a controlling sleek product, high shine spray, then used straighteners to curl the ends in. I finished the style with Catwalk shine spray to take away the natural curl.”

For make-up Ria also went for a classic look.

“Laura has brilliant skin so I created an even complexion, going with a beige neutral look for the eyes with a fine liner to give her a lift. I opted for a summery blush on the cheeks to stay in theme for the season, and completed the look with a slick of apricot high gloss lipstick.”

LOOK NO. 2

We turned to Hollywood for our second look, with Laura wearing Ginger, a backless 1920s style

by Allure, in ivory charmeuse with bugle beads.

You can see where the name came from as this backless, halter neck style with its empire line is very Ginger Rogers. This old-fashioned glamour look was perfectly complemented with a marabou feather capelet, both beautiful and practical.

The neckline of the dress was enhanced with a necklace by Madeline Isaac-James.

For this look, Chris created a bouquet from clematis, eryngium and Revive roses in pale lavender mauve, with a selection of variegated leaves. The period look of the dress was a great backdrop for this vintage-inspired bouquet.

DETAILS

LOOK NO.3

PHOTOGRAPHER DAVID BREWIN T: 0845 4277847 M: 07977 128281 W: WWW.DAVIDJBREWIN.CO.UK

We moved forward a few decades to the 1950s to take inspiration from the fishtail gowns of film stars. Estella by Allure is a heavy net with corded lace, with a fishtail line and dramatic skirt that gave Laura an enviable hourglass figure. The v neck back meant she looked as good from the back as from the front – this would be perfect for the vows!

Chris’s bouquet for this look featured lime green cymbidium orchids with pink veronica and hot pink roses called Memory Lane. Chris explained, “It reflects the appliqué on the fabric and is not too large, so it doesn’t overwhelm the gown.” To accessorise, Amanda used her own necklace plus a stunning headpiece by Blossom Tiaras. The white lace of this complemented the look of the dress and, when teamed with short white lacy gloves, really brought the whole look together. The parasol in corded lace also echoed the dress, as well as providing some much needed shade on a very sunny day!

LOOK NO 4

Our final look saw Laura wearing Rosa, a brand new design from bridal favourite Alfred Angelo.

It has a ballgown skirt with tiered layers of tulle, creating a brilliantly frothy silhouette, embellished with delicate crystals. ➻

VENUE THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM, GREAT PULTENEY STREET, BATH BA2 4DB T: 01225 388569 W: WWW. HOLBURNE.ORG DRESSES VICTORIA PARK BRIDAL, 2 CORK PLACE, UPPER BRISTOL ROAD, BATH BA1 3BB T: 01225 471505 W: WWW.VICTORIAPARKBRIDAL.CO.UK GROOM’S OUTFIT ANNE HARDING, 90-92 SHIREHAMPTON ROAD, STOKE BISHOP, BRISTOL. T: 0117 968 3074 W: WWW.ANNEHARDING.COM ACCESSORIES BRIDEZILLAS, 18 HIGH STREET, KEYNSHAM, BRISTOL BS31 1DQ T: 0117 904 3039 W: WWW.BRIDEZILLAS.BIZ HAIR AND MAKE-UP HUSH, 27-29 BALDWIN STREET, BRISTOL BS1 1LT T: 0117 930 0350 W: WWW. HUSHHAIRBRISTOL.CO.UK FLOWERS CHRIS MORISON T: 0117 950 6321 M: 0782 8975086 E: CHRISMORISON@LIVE.CO.UK MODEL (BRIDE) ROOM 3 AGENCY, THE OLD CHAPEL, 14 FAIRVIEW DRIVE, BRISTOL BS6 6PH T: 0117 944 1477 W: WWW.ROOM3AGENCY.COM MODEL (GROOM) SHOOT DHS, ODD DOWN LODGE, UPPER BLOOMFIELD ROAD, BATH BA2 2RU T: 07902 222369 W: WWW.SHOOTDHS.CO.UK

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WeddingsShowcase

8 10 8 It's film star glamour for David and Laura as they pose on the Holburne's balcony 9 Cymbidium orchids and Memory Lane roses create a vivid summer bouquet 10 The bouquet featuring Revive roses and clematis, is a work of art in its own right 11&12 Gaga Shoes by Benjamin Adams and a tiara from Bridezillas add a touch of sparkle to the shoot

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photoshoot WeddingsShowcase 13 Laura wears Estella by Allure, £1,499 , which features heavy carded lace, with V-neck front and back 14 David looks every inch the dapper groom in Anne Harding's lightweight grey morning suit 15 Ria adds some finishing touches to Laura's makeup for the more modern look DETAILS SEE PAGE 57

13 As the dress was more modern, Ria created a strong, contemporary hair style. The hair was pulled away from the face and pulled into a knot at the back, with extra height at the front. This was a great showcase for the scalloped tulle birdcage veil and Bridezilla’s own headpiece. Cherry red lipstick finished this very modern look.

Laura’s necklace was by Twilight Designs, with a crystal drop and diamantes, and she wore Gaga shoes from the Paradox range by Benjamin Adams.

THE PHOTOGRAPHER

David Brewin has been capturing weddings for the last eight years. “I found myself doing a wedding and loved it!” he told us. With his wife and photography partner Kathryn Francis, David has photographed nearly 100 weddings. “She joined the business last year and she is now very much a part of it, as well as being an accomplished photographer in her own right,” he said. “Having 2 people at a wedding is much better than one as it allows us to cover more elements in the day - we can get more reportage and the casual images that people love.”

When a couple approaches David, he starts by talking through what they’d like from their photographs, to ensure he and Kathryn can meet all their criteria, as well as advising them on what they may have overlooked.

David and Kathryn then plan the day with the couple two months in advance. “We cover formal shots, which we feel are an important part of the day, as well as reportage photos. It’s important to have a relaxed and fun attitude, and for the couple to feel we’re just another guest. We’re definitely

not one of those photographers who use whistles to get everyone in order!” He appreciates that not everyone is a natural in front of the camera. “We try to have lots of fun and make sure everyone feels at ease, making the process as pleasurable as possible.”

David and Kathryn will go the extra mile to get unusual shots. “I’ll climb trees and hang out of windows in order to get beautiful images,” he explained.

To show off the finished product, David only uses Queensberry albums from New Zealand which he feels are the best in the world. Couples end up with a stunning album, plus a DVD of all the pictures from the day and an online gallery so they can show family and friends. “We aim to give people the best possible experience all way through, from the initial meeting to the finished photo albums.”

THE VENUE

“The Holburne is unique,” said Susie Lubaczewska, events manager and wedding planner at the museum, and we have to agree. It’s not every wedding venue that offers you the chance to marry in the presence of historic paintings and ancient artefacts, not to mention the awe-inspiring architecture. Reopened in May 2011 after a refurbishment that saw the addition of a stunning contemporary extension to the Grade I listed Georgian building, the Holburne is a newcomer to the world of weddings. “Our licence came through at the end of last year and our first wedding is this summer,” explained Susie. “Our plan was always to do weddings, to open this building up to even more people. We’re spreading the word so people

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15 know it’s something we now offer.”

The museum is licensed for weddings and civil partnerships, and you can have the ceremony in the Picture Gallery on the top floor or, for a smaller ceremony, the Ballroom Gallery on the first floor, with beautiful views down Great Pulteney Street.

There are several options for the wedding: the Picture Gallery accommodates up to 80 people for a wedding breakfast, while the Ballroom Gallery holds up to 100 guests for a drinks reception. For the evening reception your party can then move downstairs to the café area in the new extension, with the doors open to the terrace and garden. For larger parties, the Holburne can also accommodate up to 200 in a marquee in the grounds. ➻ WEST WEDDINGS 59

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17 Exclusive caterers Clerkenwell Green, which also serves food at Westminster Abbey and other historic venues throughout the UK, bases its recipes on seasonal produce, while its chefs can design a menu to your exact requirements. Couples are offered tastings in advance to ensure the meal is just what they want.

The venue aims to be as flexible as possible and to tailor the day for the bride and groom.

THE SUITS

David’s suit and range of colourful cravats came from Anne Harding in Bristol, which stocks a great range of suits and outfits for the fashionable groom.

David wore a traditional tail coat in grey mohair, the perfect fabric for warmer summer weddings as it’s 50 per cent lighter than traditional fabric. At the moment Anne Harding is running a special offer: hire six suits and you only pay for five – great for grooms on a budget.

We accessorised the suit with a cream silk waistcoat and a range of differently coloured cravats that co-ordinated beautifully with the flowers.

Lee at Anne Harding reports that silvers, pinks and purples are popular colours for cravats and waistcoats right now, as well as neutral shades of white and cream in order to match the bride’s gown.

THE BRIDE

We discovered our bride, Laura, through London and Bristol-based Room 3 Agency, who moved heaven and earth to find the right model for our showcase at this elegant location.

“Bridal fashion is a small but significant part of our work,” says Kate Marshall, proprietor of Room 3. “Our models are always keen to take part in a recreation of ‘the big day’ as it’s one of the most glamorous times in any couple’s life.” She points out that the agency is regularly seeking to work with new models and anyone considering the profession should contact the company with a view to organising an the interview. “You never know,” she laughs. “They may end up trying out the bridal gown of their dreams and get some ideas for their own wedding.”

THE GROOM

David loved being our groom for the day, as it gave him the chance to get in front of the camera again and to wear a classic suit. “The morning suit is so iconic, it never goes out of fashion and it always looks stylish,” he said.

David doesn’t often get to model anymore as, since setting up the agency in 2010, he’s busy providing models for local events such as Bath in Fashion as well as national and international clients such as Vogue, Cosmopolitan and Harpers Bazaar. Shoot DHS has also recently been selected 60 WEST WEDDINGS

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WeddingsShowcase 16 The layers of Alfred Angelo's Rosa dress, £655, create a beautiful silhouette.

17 The glass café extension to the Holburne is a great contrast to the Bath stone main building.

18 David's hot pink cravat co-ordinates beautifully with the hot pink roses in Laura's bouquet 19 The team adds a birdcage veil as a finishing touch to Laura's look 20 The Holburne is a picture perfect setting for your wedding ceremony and reception DETAILS SEE PAGE 57

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to supply the models for Jessie J’s new range of jewellery by Rogue. And if that didn’t keep him busy enough, David is also a much sought-after stylist, working for designers such as Giles Deacon.

We asked David what he would wear if he was getting married himself. “It would have to be a black tuxedo,” he replied. “Pure Hollywood!”

THE HAIR AND MAKE-UP

Hush salon in Bristol may be a newcomer to the scene – it opened in September 2011 – but it’s already made a big impression on ladies in the South West. Owned by Glenn Holmes and Mark Andres, the salon only uses organic and mineralbased products, ensuring a completely natural look for your big day.

We asked Glenn what a bride could expect if she gets her hair and make-up done at Hush.

“We’d start with a trial to make sure we get the look they’re after,” he explained. “The bride can either come in to the salon, or we can come out to the venue or their home. Bridal styles are quite individual and we’ll ask her to bring in pictures of what they do and don’t like. This enables our stylist to know what look a bride is going for. We also ask what dress they’re wearing to make sure the look we create goes with that. You don’t want to detract from the gown!”

Ria offered some good advice for brides to be. “Treat your skin well, using good products.

Cleanse and tone regularly and use moisturising treatments on your hair. Both your skin and hair will then be in the best condition possible which will help your stylist and make-up artist to create a truly stunning look.”

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Southwest Chair Covers Covering Avon & Somerset

Stunning classic Jaguars for weddings, blessings and civil partnerships.

Covering Bristol, Bath, South Glos and North Somerset Tel: 01454 600072 www.ajeclassics.co.uk

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The Southwest Leading Chair Cover Supplier Over 100 stunning sash colours to perfectly match your theme and high quality chair covers in a selection of colours. Full delivery, set up and collection.

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Recommended supplier to many venues across Bristol & Somerset.

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4/27/2012 2:54:50 PM

be inspired BeInspired

HONEYMOONS FASHION DETAILS

A GOOD

YEAR FOR THE ROSES

WHAT A WAG!

While traditional advice is that wedding organisers should follow live television producers and never work with animals, many couples may find that they can’t bear to leave their beloved dog out of the arrangements. Wedding planner and dog lover, Ailish McDonnell who runs her own company Keep Calm and Marry On has a wealth of advice for dog lovers who want to include their best friend.

“It is important to take extra care with planning to avoid any potential mishaps or problems on the day,” says Ailish. “Temperament is a major consideration. Many dogs don’t like big crowds and if you are planning a large wedding you should be extremely mindful of how comfortable your dog will feel centre stage. If your faithful friend enjoys being the star turn then don’t allow your guests to bring their canine companions. This ensures your dog steals the show without any threat of competition.”

You can pamper your pooch, too , indulging them with a bath and grooming, including teeth. “Let your dog join in the dress up fun with some special accessories or even their own outfit,” she advises.

“Always keep dogs on a leash, however well trained they may be. Just like some humans, the excitement of a wedding can be overwhelming for dogs and they may behave out of character with so much going on around them. And remember, the best-laid plans can go awry, especially when it comes to animals and children, so it’s always advisable to have a Plan B.”

Whether you want to go for the currently modish ‘20s look, or prefer a contemporary vintage style, Fei Liu Fine Jewellery has come up with a gorgeous range that seems to meet all those demands.

The Rose Collection and its companion range, The Silver Rose Collection, plays on a delightfully stylised rose motif suggesting flair and elegance.

The collection incorporates long and short necklaces, earrings, pendants and much more.

Many designs are available in a variety of materials including 18 karat yellow gold plate, silver and rhodium plated sterling silver, with freshwater pearl embellishments in some cases . . . crucial for those all-important finishing touches.

Fei Liu is stocked in Harvey Nichols and other major retailers.

FEI LIU W: WWW.FEILIU.CO.UK

KEEP CALM AND MARRY ON W: WWW.KEEPCALMANDMARRYON.CO.UK

OVER THE RAINBOW The world of film and fashion have gone mad for the 1920’s this season, with a resurgence of trends like flapper dresses and ladylike styles encouraged by the forthcoming new film of The Great Gatsby and the anticipation of a new series of Downton Abbey, set in the roaring twenties.

Exeter-based wedding accessories specialist Rainbow Club has some fabulous retro styles to complete the look, with many available for hand dying, making it easy to co-ordinate any outfit. Chic block heels, cute satin ties, and elegant floral trims all cut just the right dash.

Designer Diane Hassall loves vintage styling, and the latest collections show her expertise at reworking trends in to modern, stylish footwear and accessories.

Gleaming brooch style trims, fine pleating and chic buckles adorn the latest pieces across the four shoe brands. From the simply classical Tori (£79) to the flamboyant Dolcetto by Else (£65), Rainbow offers a touch of affordable style.

Else £79 (above), and Tori £65

RAINBOW CLUB W: WWW.RAINBOWCLUB. CO.UK

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NAL IO IT D A R T S, 0 ‘2 G IN R A O R LOVING: PEARLS, THE ATRIOTIC P G IN E B D N A S E K A C G IN D WED

Our waspish queen of style Sharon Diamond takes a look at what’s hot and what’s not this spring.

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earls Tradition has it that the June bride should wear pearls and we think this is so true.

There’s something about the delicate lustre of these gems that goes perfectly with a wedding.

Whether you wear long strings, a delicate bracelet or a pair of dainty earrings, pearls are the ideal summer accessory.

Tiered cakes Although cupcakes are cute and can be easily decorated to match your theme, here at WW Towers we still love a traditional tiered cake.

Extra points if you have a mini bride and groom topper for knowing kitsch!

1920s fashion Inspired by the s/s 2012 catwalks and Oscar-winning film ‘The Artist’, we’re loving flapper dresses, beading, gloves and cloche hats. Whether the bride or a guest, this is one trend that can be used in endless ways, and is also a good companion to one of our other must-haves this season, pearls.

Revlon’s Just Bitten lipstain and balm After extensive research, I am pleased to announce that this is the wedding lipstick. The stain delicately colours your lips and the balm gently moisturises. Kiss proof, vow proof, Champagne proof – this is one product guaranteed to last throughout the day. And with seven shades, you’re bound to find the perfect colour to go with your perfect

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dress and perfect partner.

Red, white and blue As Her Maj celebrates 60 years on the throne, get your Union Jack out with a wedding styled in red, white and blue. How about blue bridesmaids’ dresses with red heels, colourful bouquets of white roses, red gerberas and blue hyacinths, or grooms wearing navy suits, red ties and white shirts?

Corgis optional.

Floral headpieces You don’t need to go to San Francisco to wear flowers in your hair, but they are ideal for summer weddings. For those brides dreaming of a casual wedding barefoot in the park, a flower hairclip in soft pink, pale grey or creamy white will complement this look, casually placed behind the ear or tucked into a low bun.

FLOWER CROWN: WWW.BHLDN.COM

BeInspired

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leeved wedding dresses Although we loved the Duchess’s dress, all good things come to an end and one year on I reluctantly have to report that the trend for sleeves has passed. And what with the (hopefully) warmer weather on the horizon, strapless dresses are a great chance to keep cool - and show off your delicately tanned arms at the same time.

Macaroons The colours of these little almond biscuits may be beautiful but they don’t taste nearly as good as they look. Dry, bland and insipid – give us a good ol’ slab of fruitcake over these any time.

Rain It’s summer, ergo there will be sunshine. Rain, rain go away. We’ve hired a marquee and you’re not going to spoil it.

Guest books Rather than the usual

WEDDING GUEST BOOK IDEAS FROM WWW.BEFORETHEBIGDAY.CO.UK

Y BRITISH IN A R S, N O O R A C A M ID P SI LOATHING: IN BOOKS ST E U G G IN R O B D N A R E H WEAT leather bound book, think outside the box for those all-important wedding day guest messages. We love postcards that are then left in a pretty box, or small cards pinned to a tree. For something really unusual, opt for a ceramic plate which guests can write on, which is then baked in the oven so the messages become permanent.

Champagne served in flutes At London Fashion Week the glitterati sipped cocktails from jam jars, bringing a touch of Southern chic to grey old England.

Forget Champagne or bucks fizz in flutes for your reception drinks and instead save up your Bonne Maman jars to serve mint juleps, hard lemonade and Singapore slings.

Butterflies So last season, darling. It’s now all about birds.

OUT

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MALDIVES PACKAGE Olhuveli beach spa & resort OPERATOR AND PRICE Tropic Breeze, from £1,415 per person For newlyweds wanting an idyllic honeymoon with a reasonable price tag, for such an exotic destination, Tropic Breeze is offering its best rates this summer, with seven nights for the price of six, or 14 nights for the price of 12, throughout June, July and September. This includes return flights from Gatwick with Emirates airline, accommodation on a half-board basis in a deluxe room, speedboat transfers, taxes and surcharges. Nestled amidst tropical vegetation, this is a stunning location for couples who want to begin married life in ultimate bliss, surrounded by a vast, awardwinning beach and a crystal clear lagoon.

With one of the only kite-surfing schools in the Maldives and a range of treatments available at the Sun Spa, this honeymoon resort offers something for all.

WWW.TROPICBREEZE.CO.UK

BLUE SKY THINKING Jemima Owen discovers some exotic offers for honeymooners who crave adventure and intimacy.

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our honeymoon is where married life begins, so put the recession and rainy staycations behind you, and celebrate in style at these glamorous destinations. Sunkissed beaches and clear blue waters will help you relax like never before, saying goodbye to all that wedding day stress.

SOUTHERN TANZANIA PACKAGE His And Hers African Adventures OPERATOR AND PRICE Expert Africa, from £3,618 per person

Expert Africa is offering a deluxe nine-night safari and beach honeymoon valid for departures throughout August. This includes flights from Heathrow with British Airways, six nights on safari, split between the Jongomero Camp and the Selous Safari Camp, with game viewing drives in open-sided 4x4 vehicles, walking safaris and boat safaris, plus a further three nights at the exclusive beach retreat of Ras Kutani on a full-board basis. Each camp in Southern Tanzania offers a private pool, a luxurious dining experience and, at the beach retreat of Ras Kutani, there is a spa, enabling you to relax and unwind after your safari adventures.

WWW.EXPERTAFRICA.COM ➻

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Bridal Wedding Fayres at some of the Finest Venues in The Cotswolds We will listen to your ideas and offer our ideas to help you create your dream individually styled beautiful wedding flowers.

From a single bouquet to an army of bridesmaids and button holes.

We will guide you through the whole experience and help you add the special details that make the difference between a good event and a fantastic unforgettable one.

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

Dates For Your Diary ..... * FREE ADMISSION & WELCOME DRINK * * FREE GOODIE BAGS *

Wedding Fayre Specials on the Day exhibiting Everything from the Necessity to the Unique. ..... the only limit is your imagination !

Sunday, 13th May 2012 Manor by the Lake Cheltenham Sunday, 20th May 2012 The Cross Hands Hotel Old Sodbury Sunday, 10th June 2012 The Orchard Marquee @ The Whitminster Inn Whitminster Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th August 2012 Woodchester Mansion Nympsfield

3 Chelford Grove Stoke Lodge Bristol BS34 6DD tel/fax 01454 856 737 email tina@tigerlilyflowers.wanadoo.co.uk www.tigerlilyflowers.co.uk

Sunday, 2nd September 2012 The Orchard Marquee @ The Whitminster Inn Whitminster

www.idylliccreations.vpweb.co.uk Proud to Support Macmillan Cancer Support

Chris Mor son Designer Florist

professionally qualified with international experience

Bespoke Flowers for Weddings, Events and Special Occasions individually designed using the freshest of flowers

❧ FREE consultation for weddings and events guiding you through choosing flowers and all you require for your special day ❧ Special occasion flowers (Christmas, parties, conferences etc) ❧ floral contracts & corporate events undertaken

e: chrismorison@live.co.uk t: 0117 9506321 m: 07828 975086

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BeInspired

GREAT BARRIER REEF OPERATOR AND PRICE Orpheus Island, from £ 4,615 for two

Having just reopened after a recent upgrade, Orpheus Island is now providing couples with a secluded honeymoon destination, burrowed in the sheltered Hazard Bay on the western side of the island. The resort is laid out along a serene beach with a ribbon of features, including rooms, suites and villas, a main pavilion bar and restaurant and an inviting infinity pool that overlooks the Coral Sea. The fringing reef surrounding Orpheus is one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most spectacular and diverse features and can be experienced on a couple’s doorstep. Activities are endless, including fishing, a tour of the neighbouring islands, snorkelling, kayaking or a sunset cruise. With every package you choose, Orpheus Island is offering a complimentary night.

WWW.ORPHEUS.COM.AU

SOUTH WEST INDIA OPERATOR AND PRICE Kerala Travel Centre, from £908 per person

With the Kerala Travel Centre, couples have the opportunity to put together their own tailormade holiday in South West India, among rugged mountains and turquoise waters, or you can take advantage of its special honeymoon tour. From romantic black water cruises, off the beaten track rainforest explorations to relaxing sunset walks and unspoilt beaches, honeymooners can choose from 10 days or a fortnight trip. The tour begins at a beach resort, followed by a trip on a private, romantic houseboat. You can hop on or off at villages you pass and will have the chance to visit Perivar, an area known for its spice plantations and elephant sightings. During the tour you can indulge in an aromatherapy massage a deux, a candle-lit dinner and a sunset cruise.

WWW.KERALATRAVELCENTRE.CO.UK

MALLORCA OPERATOR AND PRICE SimonEscapes, from £4,793 per week

SimonEscapes has announced a brand new luxury holiday home for couples, located above the glamorous hillside coastal village of Deià. C’an Llupia is a stunning traditional stone house with a terracotta tiled roof and pale green shutters, picture-perfect for a hideaway honeymoon. Home to four double bedrooms, with contemporary interiors of classic Mallorcan furnishings, bespoke beds and chandeliers, it comfortably sleeps eight people. However, it can also provide an elegant love nest for a couple longing to share newly-wed privacy in the pool or on the sunny terrace, under the olive, lemon and orange trees. The village boasts fine restaurants, galleries and shops and is only a short walk to the beach.

WWW.SIMONESCAPES.COM

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Thursday 17th May (4-8pm), Sunday 8th July (11-3pm), Thursday 16th August (4-8pm), Sunday 9th September (11-3pm), Sunday 18th November (11-3pm)

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BeInspired

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF...

caterer

THE WEDDING

Wedding catering is about more than napkins and desserts, says Peter Curtis-Smith from Fosters Event Catering.

I

t’s 5.30am on a summery Saturday. The dawn light has woken me and, like every Saturday in spring and summer, I’ve got an important wedding to orchestrate today.

As with any big event, the planning has been completed months in advance. But today I need to bring it together with perfection.

The celebrations are to be staged in a marquee in the garden of the bride’s parents. I arrive on site at 10.30am and say hello to the family. Bride-to-be Laura is already at the hair and make-up stage so I share a coffee with her and chat about anything but the wedding, in an effort to calm any anxieties.

I then check my snagging list, a group of tasks I asked my own team at Fosters and the marquee people to sort at my meetings with them yesterday. Is the electric cabling buried safely? Is the marquee door suitably pinned so no one trips? Where will the sun be when people arrive and how will this influence the photographer? Can my driver get access with the food vehicles and is the special water supply switched on?

I consider the seating plan and remind myself of the key tables and personalities. I encouraged bride Laura and fiancé Dan to name the tables after famous British peaks to reflect their passion for mountains.

I convene my staff and delegate tasks.

They are already fully briefed and only need the odd word or hand signal at this point.

Time is whizzing by and the bridal party have left for the village church. I talk to the chef who is already well-advanced with his prep at his work station behind the marquee. I glance at the menu and remember speaking to Laura and Dan the previous year when we considered the dishes over a glass of wine.

Shortly afterwards, we staged a special tasting with them that also included matching the wines. Every dish was photographed and filed so that our chef can

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BeInspired Peter, below, advises on all elements of wedding catering, from which wines to serve with the food to the best cheeses to match the cake.

PETER’S WEDDING CATERING TIPS Get to know the person that’s co-ordinating your wedding catering – trust and friendship will make for a great day Companies like Fosters are great at wed ct dings – ask them for advice on any aspe or for tips on finding the best suppliers

recreate it perfectly on the big day. The contemporary British menu sounds delicious - it’s simple, seasonal and classy.

And there won’t be any surprises regarding the cost as we’ve agreed a fixed price for Laura and Dan, reassuring them there will be no old-fashioned, add on charges.

The wedding party are back after the ceremony and my staff are suitably armed with Champagne and canapés as the guests arrive in small groups.

My job is to judge how quickly people are eating and sipping and to control the flow of food and drink; we don’t want the guests to be drunk and full just yet.

I speak briefly to the photographer whom I met the day before and chatted through his plans - it’s essential that we work together. I also speak with the groom and the best man, Matt. As I recommended months ago, we’ve arranged to do the speeches before the wedding breakfast is served as it allows Matt to get his performance out of the way and relax to enjoy the wonderful food.

I’m master of ceremonies for the day and it’s time I got the attention of the guests. Laura’s dad is already armed with the microphone as my staff top up the remaining flutes.

Now the food is flowing from the kitchen area.

Faces are lighting up and cutlery is tapping away

u Select a number of dishes for your men your e refin to t even g tastin a and attend choices Agree a fixed price to combat any . unnecessary add-on charges be tears s, If you’re hiring in temporary bathroom able avail are ensure the best toiletries Instead of table numbers, give the tables names that reflect your interests the Consider doing the speeches before wedding breakfast re Match the cake with cheeses that featu it keep – u men ing even in an informal simple be The law controls when fireworks can facts launched – ask your caterer to get the Serve a lazy brunch the morning after with juices, coffee, waffles and bacon

on the china plates. Laura and Dan are giggling as they eat. My aim is never to lift a plate or a glass all day as I take my role of conductor very seriously. If I’m clearing back the dessert dishes, my team is not operating as planned.

Cake cutting is one of the last formal ceremonies of the wedding and the couple liked my tip about how it is served. Instead of following the main meal, it’s being served later with the evening’s buffet that features a West Country cheese board and British summer fruits.

The day changes pace again as the first dance is completed and a more relaxed party starts to bounce. I’ve organised a cocktail bar to refresh the revellers and they are amazed as our bartender spins glasses and bottles to much delight.

Silent fireworks signal the end of the night and carriages await those that must travel home. For those staying, I co-ordinate coffee and hot chocolate for those that need it. It’s been a great wedding.

But it’s not over yet. My team and I have probably another two hours of clearing and cleaning before we head home.

CONTACTS FOSTERS EVENT CATERING T: 0117 977 6611 W: WWW.FOSTERSEVENTS.CO.UK

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The Compass Inn Flexible, Creative and Stylish Weddings

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

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venues VENUES

BEAUTY

LOCATION OCCASION SERVICE

A DAY AT THE RACES Bath Racecourse provides both lovely interior and exterior settings for your wedding.

UNDER STARTER’S

ORDERS

The thunder of hooves . . . the flash of colourful silk . . . the cheering crowd . . . if these images form part of your ideal wedding, then take a look at Bath Racecourse.

L

ocated just outside the city centre, Bath Racecourse is a stunning place to hold your wedding ceremony or reception. Set against the exquisite backdrop of the North Somerset countryside, and with all the excitement of a day out at the races, the course has all the ingredients of a wedding your guests won’t forget. After all, not many venues give your guests the chance to win some money to pay for their drinks.

To tailor your celebration, Bath Racecourse has a number of spaces available which can be hired singly or in combination. The Clarkes Owners and Trainers suite is licensed for ceremonies of up to 40 guests and is ideal for a smaller wedding. The Premier and Silks suites are on the first floor of the Premier stand and combine to provide a space for parties of between 50 and 200. With its floor length windows, the Silks suite has unparalleled

views across the racecourse and countryside.

The Lansdown suite is a great size for a drinks reception, or can be combined with the Clarkes Owners and Trainers suite for a wedding breakfast or evening reception.

If you prefer a more al fresco reception, the Racecourse’s luxury outdoor marquee also enjoys great views of the track. It can hold up to 300 guests but can also be partitioned for smaller parties. For larger wedding parties, the venue can provide additional marquees for up to 2,000 guests. The ample outdoor space available means that there’s also plenty of room for a bouncy castle or two to keep the children (and young-at-heart adults) happy, as well as providing a great setting for a barbecue or hog roast.

Bath Racecourse’s award winning caterers provide a range of menus to suit all tastes and budgets, from two courses to five. The mouthwatering dishes include baked ➻ WEST WEDDINGS 73

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VENUES

breast of chicken stuffed with mozzarella and wrapped in Parma ham with vermouth cream sauce, followed by white chocolate and Baileys cheesecake. If you fancy a buffet, then you can choose from a tempting array of dishes including honey roast gammon ham with sugared apricots, feta cheese and red onion quiche, and poached smoked river salmon with dill lime mayonnaise. For your younger guests there are children’s menus available, and the venue can also cater for any dietary requirements.

When booking the Racecourse for a wedding, a dedicated event organiser will be on hand from start to finish, ensuring your day is planned down to the last detail. All furniture, linen, cutlery and crockery is provided, and the venue can also advise on - and organise additional items such as balloons, chair covers and flowers, if required.

At the moment the racecourse has a few last minute dates for 2012. If you book one of these then you’ll also receive £500 off the hire cost of the venue’s luxury marquee. There are also discounts available for luxury marquee bookings made on Fridays and Sundays.

BATH RACECOURSE LANSDOWN BATH BA1 9BU T: 01225 424609 W: WWW.BATH-RACECOURSE.CO.UK

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FOR LAST REMAINING DATES IN 2012….

The Wedding Package… ...All wrapped up at Doubletree by Hilton Cadbury House Hotel • Room Hire for Afternoon and Evening Reception • Private Bar • Reception Drink on arrival (Bucks Fizz or Sparkling Wine) • 3 Course Set Menu with coffee and Glass of Wine • Glass of Sparkling Wine for toasts • Decorated tables to include White Linen Tablecloths and Napkins, Confetti Sprinkles, T-Lite Candles in Bristol Blue

ALL FOR AS LITTLE AS

Glass, Fresh Floral arrangements, 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 • Preferential Accommodation rates for guests

£3999 FOR UP TO 80 GUESTS

See below for full details and prices for SUMMER & AUTUMN 2012 WEDDINGS * offers subject to availability for new bookings only

LATE AVAILABILITY OFFERS...

Summer Dates (2012) JUNE £3999

JULY £4999

AUGUST £4999

JUNE £2499

JULY £2999

AUGUST £3250

60-80 Guests for afternoon and evening in the Great Room or Drawing Room

20-40 Guests for afternoon and up to 80 for evening in the Master Room

Autumn Dates (2012) SEPTEMBER £4999

OCTOBER £4999

NOVEMBER £5499

SEPTEMBER £2999

OCTOBER £2999

NOVEMBER £3250

60-80 Guests for afternoon and evening in the Great Room or Drawing Room

20-40 Guests for afternoon and up to 80 for evening in the Master Room

Commitment and Civil Ceremonies - £395 (additional registrar charges apply) All prices fully inclusive of VAT

Congresbury North Somerset BS49 5AD Tel: 01934 834343 (option 1) email: info@cadburyhouse.com p75.indd 1

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VENUES

PICTURE PERFECT The Georgian building provides an elegant setting for your wedding day.

AFFAIR OF

THE ARTS

Where better to create new memories on your wedding day than a location dedicated to the creativity of the past?

Jemima Owen explores the ancient treasures and modern facilities at Bath’s Holburne Museum.

I

f you’ve cast your eyes over our summer wedding showcase this issue (page 53), the beauty and tradition of the Holburne Museum in Bath will need no further introduction. The 18th century, neo-classical building, which commands extraordinary views over the Georgian city and is itself part of the city’s historical fabric, recently underwent an £11.2 million refurbishment, creating a stylish contemporary extension housing a modern café and gallery. Part of the museum’s new brief is to open up its facilities for the first time to couples planning their wedding.

The museum was founded when the art works and heirlooms of 19th century collector Sir William Holburne were bequeathed to the City of Bath. They include some extraordinary works by great masters including Thomas Gainsborough, Stubbs, Zoffany and Peter Brueghel II, while

new attractions include a temporary display of millinery from Stephen Jones ‘Georgiana to Boy George’ and the current photography and still life exhibition, ‘Art of Arrangement’.

So far, no couple has ever had the privilege of getting married in this special and historic setting, but that’s all about to change. The Holburne offers several rooms and layouts, with the flexibility of hosting your event inside or outside. For a classic and traditional wedding, the museum’s Picture Gallery on the top floor holds 80 guests for a wedding breakfast, while the elegant Ballroom Gallery, with its fantastic views down Great Pulteney Street, holds 100 guests for a drinks reception. In both cases, the party can move downstairs into the café area in the stylish new extension. Of course, if you’re looking to tie the knot nearer nature at its finest, you can invite up to 200 people to a marquee➻ WEST WEDDINGS 77

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e cas m w sho 6-9p g din from d e a w 2012 g n avi May h are 21st e W on g n ni eve

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 063ev@jupiterhotels.co.uk www.mercurebristol.co.uk p78.indd 1

Special £3,000 offer on selected dates up until March 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 4/26/2012 1:28:14 PM

VENUES

reception in the garden, backing onto the lovely Sydney Gardens.

Meanwhile, the bar area is the perfect environment to mingle with your new family, as guests dance to live entertainment in the café area. And, for the newly-married couple, the garden has a few beautiful nooks and crannies where they can share a quiet moment or two.

The magic doesn’t stop at the architecture, either, as the Holburne has its own in-house catering service, Clerkenwell Green, which caters for many historic venues throughout the UK, including Westminster Abbey, Edinburgh Castle and Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum. Its menu is based on seasonal ingredients, with dishes including the delicious summer canapé bresaola on a garlic ciabatta croute. But, if you prefer a simple British meal of sausage and mash instead of a mouth-watering soy glazed salmon, Clerkenwell Green will do it. It also provides tastings in advance so you have no unexpected surprises on the day.

Based at the museum, Susie Lubaczewska, Clerkenwell Green’s events manager and experienced wedding planner, is looking forward to her first season of weddings in this stunning Georgian building. “Our licence only came through end of last year, and we’re holding our first wedding this summer,” she explains. “It’s important for us to ‘get out there’ into the market, so people know it’s something you can now do.

Effectively, we’re a new venue for central Bath.”

As a brand new wedding venue, the team at the Holburne is dedicated to tailoring its service to the bride and groom. It aims to be as flexible as possible, and knows that each wedding is unique. So, why not experience the magnificent building for yourself and decide if it’s ‘The One’ for your wedding?

THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM GREAT PULTENEY STREET, BATH, BA2 4DB T: 01225 388569 W: WWW.HOLBURNE.ORG E: SL630@BATH.AC.UK

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VENUES

SOMETHING NEW You can be one of the first people to get married in Longleat’s beautiful house and grounds.

THE VOW

FACTOR

Opening its doors to wedding parties after nearly half a millennium, Longleat House offers a fairytale venue to tie the knot, says Jemima Owen.

F

or most people in the West Country, nay, the nation, Longleat means lions, tigers, monkeys and adventure. The Elizabethan mansion, one of the most impressive examples of country house architecture from that period, complete with Capability Browndesigned gardens, has entertained many hundreds of thousands of visitors over the last 40 years with its safari park (one of the first in Britain) and adventure playground, while its owner the Marquess of Bath has cut a loveably controversial figure in the nation’s media. Now, Longleat means romance too, as, for the first time in its nearly 500 year history, couples can get married amidst its centuries-old artistic heritage.

The grand façade conceals a treasure trove of priceless artefacts and furnishings dating from its creation by Sir John Thynn in 1568 to the present day. The magnificence of the house is matched by the splendour

of its surroundings; a mixture of 900 acres of landscaped parkland, lakes and formal gardens.

“We’re delighted to offer couples the opportunity to get married in one of the country’s most historic and spectacular houses for the very first time,” says Anna Walton, sales manager for the venue.

“Longleat offers a welcoming setting, providing couples and their guests with their own special moment in history in a wonderful stately home.”

There are four locations to hold your wedding. For a formal ceremony and drinks reception, the 16th century Great Hall holds 130 guests, or 100 guests if you decide to hold the wedding breakfast there. Lord Bath’s Banqueting Suite offers a more intimate atmosphere holding 50 guests, while the opulent Green Library, with its wooden walls and floor-to-ceiling book cabinets holds 75 guests for the ceremony, and 50 for

the wedding breakfast. Set in the beautiful rose-filled gardens of the Love Labyrinth and Secret Garden, the Orangery is the perfect romantic setting for your special day, holding 100 guests. For a larger affair you can enjoy a marquee set in the scenic gardens, alongside the lake. Whether grand or intimate, Longleat’s wedding co-ordinator, Rachel Sprules will make it happen. Along with splendid locations, Longleat can also recommend external caterers, who will tailor their menu to your requirements.

Longleat House hosts its first ‘Wedding Showcase Day’ on Sunday 13 May from 10.30am-4.30pm. With free admission, a personal tour from a wedding planner and an exclusive special offer, it’s essential to pre-book your appointment. For more information on this event, contact Rachel at the venue.

LONGLEAT HOUSE LONGLEAT, WARMINSTER, WILTSHIRE, BA12 7NW T: 01985 844328 W: WWW.LONGLEAT.CO.UK/ HOSPITALITY E: RACHEL.SPRULES@LONGLEAT. CO.UK OR SALES@LONGLEAT.CO.UK

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venues AZTEC HOTEL & SPA

BATH RACECOURSE

OLD DOWN MANOR

Aztec West, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4TS

Racecourse, Lansdown, Bath, BA1 9BU

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

T: 01225 424609 E: events@bath-racecourse.co.uk W: www.bath-racecourse.co.uk

Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG

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

CAPACITY: A variety of Suite available to accommodate up to 300 guests.

T: 01454 414081 E: info@olddownmanor.co.uk W: www.olddownmanor.co.uk

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.

FACILITIES: Situated in stunning scenery overlooking the picturesque City of Bath, Bath Racecourse is a beautiful and unique place in which to hold your wedding ceremony, reception or both. Fortunate to have it’s own fully lined luxury marquee, the venue is becoming increasingly popular for affordable wedding receptions. The staff expertise, wide range of facilities, gorgeous food and stunning scenery means that your special day will be a memorable occasion for you and your guests.

BEST WESTERN COMPASS INN

THE KENDLESHIRE GOLF CLUB

B

Tormarton, Near Badminton, South Gloucestershire, GL9 1JB T: 01454 218242 E: Info@compass-inn.co.uk W: www.compass-inn.co.uk 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.

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 £4million, 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.

MERCURE GLOUCESTER BOWDEN HALL

The Kendleshire, Henfield Road, Coalpit Heath, Bristol, BS36 2UY

Upton St Leonards, Gloucester, GL4 8ED

T: 01179567007 E:-cherie@thekendleshire.com W:-thekendleshire.com

T: 0844 815 9077 E: 077cs@jupiterhotels.co.uk W: www.mercuregloucester.co.uk

CAPACITY: Up to 130 guests for a civil ceremony and wedding breakfast, up to 210 guests for an evening reception.

CAPACITY: 160 Wedding Breakfast and 200 Evening Receptions.

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.

FACILITIES: Grade II Listed Georgian Mansion set in 12 acres of private parkland. The Picturesque Hotel is an ideal location for your wedding celebrations and is fully Licensed for Civil ceremonies. We offer complete flexibility in all of our wedding packages allowing you to tailor your requirements to your special day. We have a wide range of facilities including 72 Bedrooms, Health Club and Spa, exceptional food and remarkable surroundings, all at unbelievably affordable prices, with Bowden Hall possibilities are endless.

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ry House Hotel th Club & Spa DOUBLETREE BY HILTON CADBURY HOUSE

venues 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:Info@cadburyhouse.com W: www.cadburyhousebristol.co.uk

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

cadburyhouse.com cadburyhouse.com CAPACITY: Up 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

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.

TORTWORTH COURT FOUR PILLARS HOTEL

Mercure Bristol North, The Grange Hotel Old Gloucester Road, Winterbourne Bristol, BS36 1RP

Tortworth, Wotton-under-Edge South Gloucestershire, GL12 8HH

T: 01454 771403 E: 063ev@jupiterhotels.co.uk

T: 01454 263000 E: Tortworth@four-pillars.co.uk W: www.four-pillars.co.uk/tortworth

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: 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.

DO PEOPLE KNOW YOU’RE A LICENSED VENUE? To advertise your venue in the next issue of

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.

call Jacqui Lewis on

0117 934 3136 West Weddings 83

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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

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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 WEAR

Call Jacqui Lewis on 0117 934 3136 to advertise in the next issue of West Weddings

ENTERTAINMENT

FOOD & DRINK

MUSIC

Athene String Quartet

Amazing Eric Entertainments Professional Magic at its best

Chocolate Nirvana What better way to thank your guests for sharing your special day than choosing a chocolate fountain from Chocolate Nirvana

www.amazingeric.co.uk www.thebristolmagician.co.uk Contact: Eric 07812399467 ericsemail@orange.net

CAKES

FAVOURS

Contact Karen and Martin on: 0117 9503825 www.chocolate-nirvana.co.uk All major credit and debit cards accepted

FRILLS

Music for special occasions: Weddings • Birthday Parties • Anniversaries • Corporate Functions Live string quartet music to suit your personal tastes.

0117 9730935 / 01454 610056 athene4@talktalk.net www.athenestringquartet.co.uk

MUSIC

Sur Les Ailes D’Amour (Meaning: On the Wings of Love)

Luxury Chocolates and confectionery • Favours • Wedding stationery • Celebration cakes • Cake Decorations • Partyware • Online and postal service available 12a Hill Road Clevedon Tel: 01275 878978 www.indulgencechocolates.co.uk

CAKES

FLORAL DESIGN

‘Pure White Dove’ Release for Any Occasion For That Extra WOW Factor Weddings • Engagements • Funerals Memorials • Christenings • Birthdays Anniversaries • Valentines Corporate Events...

Whatever the occasion Contact - Jacqui 01453 832736 I 07772 210 742 Email: jacqui@doverelease.vpweb.co.uk www.doverelease.vpweb.co.uk

HEALTH & BEAUTY

TOASTMASTER

Cakes by Joanna

2012 Classic Range wedding cakes now £212.

See website for offer details.

www.cakesbyjoanna.co.uk Tel: 07905 282273 88 West Weddings

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directory TRANSPORT

VENUES

The Town & Country Lodge

Get yourself noticed by the Bride-to-be’s!

Wedding Receptions will take care of all the fine details for your Wedding Reception, leaving you to relax and enjoy your special day, Please contact our Wedding Co-ordinator for further details on how to book.

The Town & Country Lodge, A38 Bridgwater Road, Bristol, BS13 8AG t: 01275 392441 e: reservations@tclodge.co.uk www.tclodge.co.uk

TRANSPORT

TRANSPORT

you...

Call Jacqui Lewis on

Summer 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 mike.gartside@ 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 1.08.12 Winner selected at West Weddings Show and notified before 2.09.12 Other competitions close on 1.08.12 The winner’s wedding date must be six months after 2.09.12 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: A. General terms and conditions relating to all competitions in West Weddings Summer 2012 edition: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

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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 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.

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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.

West Weddings 89

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Last Word

WHO

INVITES THE

guests?

Your parents are paying for the wedding so can they dictate the guest list? Louise Jarndyce thinks so, but Jemima Owen disagrees.

Deciding who makes the final cut on the guest list can be a fraught experience, especially if parents are involved.

NO

Oh, the politics of a wedding guest list.

This is the one area of the wedding plan that requires the most soul searching.

Unlike any other activity, apart possibly from the budget, it can be absolutely nauseating and push you into an unbearable stress zone, even more so if parents are involved. While your generous parents may have lent a hand with the finances of your wedding day, they do not have the right to dictate the guest list.

This day is special to you and your partner. Surely you want your close friends and family at your side, rather than your father’s dear old friend Bert, who has to come because he saw you grow up? You may have to sit your parents down and explain over and over that it isn’t their day, it’s yours, but it will be worth it. If they realise just how important it is for you to share your wedding day with your friends, they should throw up their hands and leave you to it.

Your parents had their day, and now it’s your turn to share the celebrations with who you know and love. Prince William and Kate had a job on their hands when their wedding guest list reaching a total of 2,000. But after Prince William received a letter full of strangers that he was told to invite, he took it up with his grandmother, The Queen, and she graciously told him to throw away the list. Surely there can be no higher authority?

What do you think? Let us know your thoughts via email or Twitter

YES Weddings are, generally, expensive. Even if you decide to keep it simple and forego the five course dinner, horse drawn carriage and six piece swing band, a small wedding still costs a lot, especially if you’re feeding your guests. So if your parents offer to pay for some or all of it, life becomes a lot easier. This often comes with the unwritten expectation that they then have a say in the guest list, which doesn’t go down well with some people.

But, in my opinion, if your parents are paying, then they are technically co-hosting the event with you. Surely this entitles

them to a say in who they are providing hospitality for?

Your parents are no doubt proud of you and want to broadcast this to the people they’re close to. So even though these may not be people you socialise with – you may not have even seen them since the last millennium – they’re still important to your folks, who want them to share your happy day. Weddings are an emotional time for parents, and it’s important to be sensitive to their feelings.

Even if they’re not financially contributing, parents are still an important part of the day and key members of the bridal party. Couples should acknowledge this and allow them to have some say in who is there to celebrate with. Plus, think of the extra wedding presents!

90 WEST WEDDINGS

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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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