Look what catches the eye of the editor with a special emphasis on local wedding businesses, shops and suppliers.
From Regency-core to overflowing natural elements, there are plenty of themes to draw inspiration from to help navigate wedding planning. We're here to help! Discover the feature in our September/October issue, available to download for free now.
If you're planning a hen or stag do that stands out from the crowd, look no further than iFLY Basingstoke! Discover the company in our September/October issue, available to download for free now.
If you envision a wedding in the beautiful English countryside, Dunton Lodge in Hertfordshire is the perfect venue! Discover the property in our August/September issue, available to download for free now.
Chloe and Lewis met at Lewis' workplace. Chloe was friends with his boss' sister so they'd go and visit the workshop together. The future couple got on well together straight away with plenty of banter and they became friends. “Everyone wanted to set us up and egged us on to go on a date,” Chloe says. “Once we did, the rest was history.” Indeed, the first date went so well, Lewis tells us, “Afterwards, I knew I was going to marry her.”
Now a couple the two had discussed marriage, so Chloe knew when Lewis had purchased the engagement ring, but didn't know when or where he planned to propose. He chose the perfect moment on a beach in Devon on their first holiday together as a family with their two children. “I was busy taking pictures of our son playing in the rocks, while our daughter was asleep in her carrier,” Chloe remembers. “When I turned around, there he was down on one knee with the ring in his hand. He'd managed to surprise me. I wasn't expecting it to happen then and there!”
It'd been a dream of Chloe's to get married at Frickley Lake since it started hosting weddings. She grew up down the lane and had spent countless hours on the land as a child. Her dad was game keeper and used part of the farm's land for the shoot. There'd also been annual festival events held in what is now the wedding field that she would attend with her family, so it occupies an incredibly sentimental place in her heart. Lewis was more than happy to go along with this since the place meant so much to Chloe and fell in love with it himself when he saw the views and experienced the tranquil surroundings. “We couldn't have found a more perfect venue for us if we tried,” Chloe explains.
Discover the story of Chloe and Brandon's big day in the current issue of Your Sussex Wedding, free to download at www.your-sussex.wedding/free-download
Vicki and Steve met on Tinder in 2017, and got together for a first date at Nettle and Rye in Bristol. At the time, Vicki lived in Clevedon, and made a memorable exit when her Uber driver crashed into a bollard while reversing! The two soon went on a second date and before long they'd bonded over a love of food and enjoyed subsequent dates at foodie hotspots including Bravas and Poco Tapas in Bristol and Scoozi's in Clevedon. As Vicki is a vet Steve also impressed her on an early date with a tour of Bristol Zoo complete with a quiz.
After six years together Steve proposed to Vicki in a beautiful Prague park. He'd managed to surprise her, which we understand is quite an achievement as Steve is generally an open book. What was even more impressive though was that both sets of parents had managed to keep it quiet too! When the couple first visited North Cadbury Court, they'd only seen three other venues. “But we stopped searching there and then, as it really felt perfect,” Vicki explains. They'd been looking for somewhere that would allow them to have a relaxed, weekend away vibe to their wedding and the fact that North Cadbury Court was able to sleep 80 guests on site in its luxurious bedrooms meant it fit the bill. “We knew our guests would enjoy it and we could also mould the wedding our way through a flexible choice of suppliers. There was no corkage and no schedule, which was more than we'd hoped for,” Vicki shares.
Discover the story of Vicki and Steve's big day in the current issue of Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding, free to download at www.yourbristolsomerset.wedding/free-download
At Aylesbury-based Rhubarb & Ginger Event Catering, everything is homemade - even down to the tasty selection of bread. Co-owner Laura Allum tells us, "We create everything ourselves from scratch - something we are hugely proud of! We don't employ chefs, we are the chefs. We offer a bespoke service meaning we tailor each menu to fit individual clients' requirements for all occasions, from weddings to dinner parties resulting in delicious food for great occasions." Read more in the latest issue available to download now for FREE!
Luscombe Damascene Rose Bubbly is now available in the perfect sharing size, ideal for when you invite friends over this autumn. Awarded 'Bronze' at the 2024 International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC), Luscombe Damascene Rose Bubbly received glowing feedback from the judges with comments including, “Lovely floral notes dance with ripe fruit, offering a delightful sweetness. Smooth and inviting, ending with a charming finish.” Read all about it in the latest issue available to download now for FREE!
Amy and Rich's romantic wedding at Houchins was styled to perfection trailing with lush foliage and hints of gold throughout. Amy tells us, "The Grade II listed farmhouse is absolutely stunning and we felt warm and cosy every time we were inside. It's decorated to perfection. Their vision of sustainability reflects our views too."
The latest issue is available now. Read An Essex Wedding magazine for free!
Make-up artist Lily Thomas reveals the latest make-up trends.
"Most brides want to glow and not look like a shiny disco ball; a pearlescent glow is the easiest way to get the youthful lite from within. Use a liquid pearlescent product like Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter for an all-over glow or Iconic London Illuminating Drops; lightly dab it over the skin with a beauty blender or brush once you’ve finished your foundation. I’d recommend avoiding the forehead area and focusing on the cheeks, nose and brow bone to enhance your features.
"Blush has made a real comeback in recent years and it’s definitely not just a trend. Use a liquid or cream blusher for a long-wearing look; apply a little more than you usually would to avoid looking washed out on your wedding day. I love Nudestix Nudies Cream Blush in shades Picante, Nude Peach and Cherie as it adds colour back to the cheeks.
"Dreamy matte skin is seamlessly blended to achieve healthy, fresh- looking skin without any shine. Use matte or satin-finish foundations and bronzers, set with a pressed setting powder like Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Setting Powder and Setting Spray to minimise shine. To add colour to the cheeks, buff a matte cream blusher using a fluffy brush. Soft pinks and browns work really well with this look."
Head over to our Looking Your Best feature in the current issue to see more. Download your free copy at www.youreastanglian.wedding/free-download
Wedding cakes are quickly becoming something more than just a sweet treat. They are works of art that can incorporate your personality and the time of year. With so many options to choose from, it can feel overwhelming, but don’t panic; there is something out there to suit everyone. To help give you heaps of inspiration, we’ve interviewed Sally Cooper from Sally Cooper Cake Artist to find out more about her business.
"My name is Sally and I’m an award-winning cake artist specialising in creating elegant and delicious wedding cakes that are designed and made from my home, which is just a stone’s throw from the Lake District. My passion lies in creating bakes that are little slices of edible art. Using ganache as my primary medium, I love exploring different textures and adorning cakes with beautiful arrangements of fresh and dried flowers. My designs often range from classic and timeless to modern and whimsical in a wide range of flavours, including traditional options like Victoria sponge and lemon, as well as more unique combinations such as white chocolate and passionfruit and sticky toffee pudding. Crafted to be visually stunning but also to taste exceptional, it will leave a lasting impression on your guests."
See more from our Cakes feature in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournorthwest.wedding/free-download
Welcome to one of Sheffield’s newest venues, which opened in 2023: Steel City Chapel, the ultimate Vegas-inspired elopement chapel venue! Nestled in the heart of Kelham Island, this funky and vibrant space is where dreams become reality and love takes centre stage. Whether you’re looking for an intimate ceremony or a lively vow renewal, this oh-so cool space has you covered.
So, step into a world of glitz, glamour and electric energy, where the spirit of Sin City meets the undeniable charm of Yorkshire’s very own Sheffield. Get ready to say “I do” accompanied by 16 of your nearest and dearest in a place where every moment is a celebration. This is your passport to an unforgettable experience that combines the magic of Vegas with the warmth of the Chapel’s vibrant community. Get ready to roll the dice on love and immerse yourself in a truly extraordinary celebration at Steel City Chapel!
For more Sheffield venues, download the Jul/Aug24 issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding, free at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download
Brett and Emily's epic wedding was full of memorable moments
These lovebirds crossed paths on Tinder in September 2020, just before the second Covid lockdown was imposed. Brett postponed the initial date, and Emily almost called off the second one, so they were very close to missing each other – thankfully, they didn't! They went on three or four dates, so had to decide if they would form each other's social bubble. Emily recalls, “We had so many shared interests, like a passion for food and drinks, vacations and sports – the rest is history."
Find more real weddings in the latest issue Your Midlands Wedding - June/July 2024 (Issue 92) (county.wedding)
At Delamere Manor enchantment and elegance blend seamlessly to create an idyllic backdrop for any wedding. Nestled amid picturesque landscapes in the heart of Cheshire, this venue offers a captivating experience. In addition to its incredible ceremony and reception spaces, Delamere Manor offers an array of amenities from beautifully appointed bedrooms, a beauty parlour, to top-notch catering services with customisable menu options.
Ceremonies take place in any one of a number of locations across the venue. The Courtyard is an enchanting inside/outside space that can host up to 140 seated guests. On sunny days, the roof is fully retractable for
a fl exible dining experience and when day turns to dusk, thousands of twinkling lights give the space a magical feel.
The Drawing Room offers a more intimate space for gathering 50 nearest and dearest. With sweeping views of the estate, this sunny room looks sublime set up for a ceremony or a romantic wedding breakfast.
What’s more, there are a wealth of opportunities for al fresco ceremonies here with a choice of the Garden Folly, the picture-perfect Jetty for lakeside vows and the Summer House. Meanwhile, the southfacing Terrace offers 100 acres of countryside, a serene lake and ancient woodlands as your backdrop.
The Lounge Bar in the heart of the Manor offers a delightful haven for various points throughout your day. Whether it’s pre-drinks for the groomsmen, a night-before gathering or a post-ceremony treat when the weather’s not cooperating. It’s the epitome of style and relaxation.
With its elegant décor, sophisticated lighting and spacious layout, the evening reception area here sets the stage for a night fi lled with unforgettable moments. Whether you dream of a glamorous affair or a contemporary chic setting, this versatile space can be transformed to refl ect your style and vision.
The cherry on the cake though is one of the most distinctive features at Delamere Manor: an exclusive nightclub experience. Formerly known as a renowned recording studio, this exceptional space has undergone a magnificent transformation into a state-of-the-art entertainment space, complete with mesmerising lighting, a cutting-edge sound system and a bar area.
For more West Cheshire venues, download the Jul/Aug24 issue of Your Cheshire & Merseyside free at www.yourcheshiremerseyside.wedding/free-download
Haley and Kristian met while Haley was working at a pub in Neath. “I became friends with a regular called Ryan,” says Haley. “I didn’t know at the time that Ryan had a brother, so when Ryan walked into the bar one day and I asked him about his trip away to Butlins and he told me he’d just returned from Egypt with his girlfriend, I was confused! Later on, Ryan came in again and was dressed in a different outfit! It turned out Ryan and Kristian are brothers and looked exactly the same to me. It was then that Ryan introduced me to Kristian, and well, that was when our story began. We were both in relationships, so we just enjoyed being friends. Kristian was so nice to me and he became my best friend. He broke things off with his girlfriend and I called things off with my then-fiancé, and we remained friends. As I wasn’t ready to begin another relationship, we closed the door on us for a few months. Fast forward and I became seriously ill and ended up in the hospital. Kristian found out and was at my bedside in no time. He temporarily moved his job to Cardiff and moved in with me to help me get better and the rest is history.”
Kristian surprised Haley by proposing in 2021. “We had booked a week off work and the weekend before Kristian was in Scotland with the boys,” shares the bride. “While he was away, I had the family around to stay. We were having Sunday lunch when Kristian called and told me to pack my bags as we were going away the next day. I managed to get the family to leave and I packed. Monday morning came and we drove up to a log cabin. We had been there twice already and we usually empty the car right away, but he told me to go straight in. When I did, there were rose petals on the floor, leading up to the stairs and out to the balcony. When I turned around, he was down on one knee, talking 100 miles an hour and the rest is a blur. It was perfect and I wouldn’t change a thing. I just wish that my nan was there to see it all and see how happy I am. My nan brought me up and she really loved Kristian. Apparently, before she moved into a home in 2020, he had told her he was going to marry me. She had dementia, so she would have forgotten, but the thought was there and that meant everything.”
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yoursouthwales.wedding/free-download
Katie and Marc met at school when two mutual friends introduced them. “We were in a relationship for five years before we went our separate ways,” says Katie. “Four years later, Marc reached out to see if I wanted to go for a drink. I thought it would be an opportunity to reassure us both that we’d made the right decision all those years ago; however, within five minutes, it was clear that we were going to get back together.”
Marc proposed in December 2021 during a break in Rye, East Sussex. “We had to postpone the two-night getaway for a year due to the pandemic,” shares the bride. “We were both fortunate to have very busy jobs during the pandemic, so we were desperate to get away for a couple of days relaxing in front of a log fire with some mulled wine, so it was absolutely perfect!”
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Joe proposed to Mary at Disneyland Paris with their daughter, Ava, asleep in her pram. They'd known each other since childhood, having met at infant school.
With their hearts set on a rustic barn wedding they set out on their venue search and fell in love with the beautiful Cissbury Barns in Findon, West Sussex. “We knew we wanted a beautiful, barn that was all enclosed for guests to mingle, especially for a running toddler!” Mary explains.
Discover the story of Mary and Joseph's big day in the current issue of Your Sussex Wedding, free to download at www.your-sussex.wedding/free-download
When Claire and Jack met through a mutual friend, it wasn't long before he asked for her number. In no time, they were off on their first date to the BFI on London's South Bank. “I loved how many diff erent interests and hobbies Jack has,” Claire tells us. “He'd say he loved my sense of humour!”
Jack's plan was to propose on a boat he'd rent while the couple were on holiday in Sorrento. However, the weather was so unpredictable every time he tried to organise it the conditions were too bad. Instead, he opted to pop the question on the evening of his birthday. The pair went for a walk after dinner to a park in Sorrento, the Villa Communale, blessed with beautiful sea views. Determined and undeterred by the thunder and lightning, Jack got down on one knee and asked Claire to marry him!
The couple had been on holiday to Wells a few years previous and fell in love with the city. They'd visited Bishop's Palace and Gardens whilst there and thought the grounds were so beautiful that it immediately came to mind when they began looking for a wedding venue. “As a former archaeologist I love the history of the Palace, and the gardens are truly special,” Claire explains.
Discover the story of Claire and Jack's big day in the current issue of Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding, free to download at www.yourbristolsomerset.wedding/free-download
Amy and Rich's romantic wedding at Houchins was styled to perfection trailing with lush foliage and hints of gold throughout. This editorial shot taken in the drawing room is so chic!
The latest issue is available now. Read An Essex Wedding magazine for free!
When it comes to wedding cake trends, Ausel Cakes & Catering tell us, "Lambeth cakes are making a comeback, but with a twist and step back in time and enjoy the nostalgia of retro cakes. See more in the latest issue available to download now for FREE!
The founder of Cakeaways and cake artist Sarah Anderson has revealed some stunning new wedding designs including this peach, blue and pink cake with peach wafer paper peonies. See more in the latest issue available to download now for FREE!