Look what catches the eye of the editor with a special emphasis on local wedding businesses, shops and suppliers.
The Great Taste awards recently revealed Cornwall's best food and drink suppliers in 2024. Read all about it in the new issue available to download now for FREE!
MEET NATALIE WILLINGHAM
Natalie is a bridal make-up artist and hair stylist based in Leeds.
NATALIE'S SIGNATURE LOOK
“Barely there, natural beauty that enhances your features. It's fresh and it's pretty.”
NATALIE'S WORDS OF WISDOM
“It's essential that your skin and hair are in the best condition possible; this makes a huge difference to your artist as we're not needing to spend time and products correcting issues. For example, investing in a decent shampoo and conditioner may cost two or three times more than you'd normally spend but your hair won't be loaded with silicone deposits, and you'll likely be able to leave longer between washes.
“The skincare market is vast and there's a product range to suit every skin issue and budget. Consistency is key though once your correct routine has been identified.”
2025 TRENDS
“Bridgerton continues to influence bridal fashion with lots of romantic styling, lightweight fabrics, fitted bodices and florals. I anticipate make-up and hair to reflect this with skin fresh, pretty and modern with minimal coverage and sheer blush, plus pastel colours on the eyes, all finished with rosebud lips. “Hair will be softly curled and mostly unstructured meaning half up styles may be favoured as opposed to sleek updos.”
MUST-HAVES
“Oh, I can never just pick one product I can't live without! I'd have to say concealer and blush are my must-haves since they're both so versatile. Concealer can be used to cover spots, dark circles and more, or it can be used instead of a foundation. It can help to shape your face and add light to your features. Similarly, a great cream or gel blush can be used on the cheeks, lips and eyelids to create a beautiful monotone look.”
Meet more local bridal hair and make-up specialists in the current issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding, free to download at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download
The Hove Club is a beautiful 19th-century manor house located in the heart of Hove, mere mintues from the beach. The elegant Grade II listed property was built around 1897 and now makes for a dream wedding venue. “We wanted our shoot to show the stunning features of the building and the stunning garden,” says shoot coordinator Anne Youles from The Bridal Hair Company. It features a modern bride with an oh-so pretty colour palette of white, lilac and a hint of purple.
Check out the full shoot in the current issue of Your Sussex Wedding, free to download now at www.your-sussex.wedding/free-download
Elsie and Lily met at a mutual friend's birthday party. “At the time, Lily was uncertain of her sexuality,” Elsie explains, “But I knew the minute I saw her that I was going to fall in love with this girl! I chased her around the party, both young and nervous. She got her dad to pick her up immediately!” After frightening Lily off, the two spent several years being friends with Lily trying everything to avoid falling in love with Elsie. However, one lockdown later Lily finally bit the bullet and kissed Elsie one evening. From there, their relationship blossomed. “We're definitely the definition of opposites attract,” Elsie continues. “Lily is quiet and I'm wild and loud, but our two personalities just melt together perfectly. Where one falls, the other lifts us up. Although, we'll never agree on who's funnier!”
Elsie proposed on Valentine's Day 2023. It's a day tinged with sadness for her as it's the anniversary of her nanna's passing. However, knowing how much she would have loved Lily, she decided to pop the question on the day her nanna felt closest to her as she wanted her there in spirit when she asked Lily to marry her. So, she told Lily to meet her at their special place, where they went on their first date and now take their dogs for walks. On arrival, Lily was greeted by a trail of candles and lanterns hanging from the trees and found Elsie at the end of the path on one knee. Elsie read a short speech telling Lily what she means to her, along with a small ode to her nanna. Before she'd even managed to get the ring on, Lily hugged her and wouldn't let go! “She'd also forgotten to say 'yes' in the meantime,” Elsie laughs.
Sheppy's Cider Farm was the only venue the couple looked at and fell totally in love with it on their first visit. “We were greeted by the wonderful Megan who absolutely sold the venue and package to us. It was everything we wanted from a venue,” Elsie explains. “No question was too much, no request turned down. The staff were all friendly and full of knowledge on everything from the cheese to the cider. We truly felt like part of the family and still do months later. Sheppy's Cider Farm will forever hold a fond place in our hearts.”
Location decided, the date was set for 16th May 2024.
To find out more, download the latest issue of Your Somerset, Glos & Wilts Wedding, free at www.yoursomersetglosandwilts.wedding/free-download
Having graced our screens since 1960, during the 60-plus years Coronation Street has been running the soap has seen no fewer than 110 weddings, even though some of them barely made it past the “I dos!” Set in the fictional Salford suburb of Weatherfield, in our neighbouring historic county of Lancashire, even if you're not a fan, you could use it as your inspiration for celebrating the best of the North West.
Look for an iconic venue such as the Royal Liver Building to truly reflect your roots, and serve a wedding breakfast packed with fresh locally sourced produce. You could also source wine from a Cheshire-based vineyard such as Carden park. Offer guests a locally-themed favour from a nearby gin distillery or apiary, and be sure to head out into the city or countryside to capture the best of the region's backdrops with your photographer.
Classic Wedding Cars Cheshire’s (https://classicweddingcarscheshire.com) Triumph Vitesse appeared on Corrie as Daniel and Shinead’s wedding car.
For more silver and small screen transport ideas, download the latest issue of Your Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding free at www.yourcheshiremerseyside.wedding/free-download
Mr and Mrs Pearl tied the knot in style at That Amazing Place. The couple chose a flower wall with ‘The Pearls’ light up sign for a backdrop to their photobooth - and doesn't it look incredible!
The Bilsington Priory Estate, a historic gem nestled near Ashford, has announced the launch of its new website. In collaboration with Lemonade Design Co., the updated site features an enhanced user experience, highlighting the Priory’s rich history, a range of wedding packages and the Edwardian manor house with fabulous afternoon teas and events.
Libby Lawson, the owner of Bilsington Priory and Estate, tells us: “We are excited to unveil our new online presence. The new website reflects our commitment to providing an engaging and informative experience for recently engaged couples, our wonderful returning afternoon tea guests, and visitors to the numerous and exciting events we hold across the Estate. We invite everyone to explore the site and discover what makes Bilsington Priory a unique destination for a wedding or celebration.”
See more news in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Bridal Reloved Cardiff is Wales’ first eco-conscious bilingual bridal boutique, selling pre-owned and ex-sample designer wedding dresses.
Bronwen Barclay, from Bridal Reloved Cardiff, tells us: “I decided to start the business after recently getting married and seeing that no local bridal shops offered pre-loved or sustainable dresses alongside a personalised experience. So, I took a leap, leaving my job after nearly a decade of primary school teaching, to give brides-to-be in my hometown unforgettable ‘say yes to the dress’ experiences.”
See more news in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yoursouthwales.wedding/free-download
Photographer Simon Watson organised this styled shoot. “I met Kim, who owns Ormesby Manor,” says Simon. “I fell in love with the venue right away. It’s stunning and offers so much, so I knew I wanted to organise a styled shoot there.”
See more from the shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.youreastanglian.wedding/free-download
Sarah Bainbridge from West View Photography organised this styled shoot with the help of talented, local suppliers. “I have loved the black-and- white wedding theme for a while, so I thought I would try it out for myself in a styled shoot,” says Sarah. “When speaking to The Bridal Lounge of Clitheroe, Lee offered a black dress, which I was so excited about, and it worked amazing with the theme. With Holmes Mill being one of my favourite venues, I was happy to be back working there with a different vibe. I love how the posed couple portraits turned out so well.”
See more from this styled shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournorthwest.wedding/free-download
I've always dreamed of a dress that's unique and 100 per cent me. What are my options if I go down the bespoke route?
Sarah Ashton from Thimbelina of York (www.thimbelina.co.uk) says: The options are many and varied in choosing a bespoke dress that will be as individual as you are. Here at Thimbelina you're invited to a free and friendly consultation to determine your preferred choice of style. This will result in a sketch of the dress, together with a selection of fabric samples, any colour, any lace, tulle, sparkle, colourful inserts, or crystals or beading.
A choice of style from the traditional, elegant, classic, silhouette with no embellishments to a 30-layer crystal encrusted highly decorated design is possible, or any alternative, showcasing your personal style, taste, preferences and fit. We'll offer suggestions but ultimately it will always be based around your dream dress, and in choosing a made to-measure dress you'll know it will fit you perfectly and comfortably for your big day.
You'll see your style of dress when a toile (mock-up) is made to your measurements, using our personal pattern-making skills. Changes can be made at this stage, for example sleeves, neckline, back opening etc before the dress is cut out in the fabric.
There are many other opportunities too when choosing a bespoke dress. You can have an over-top of lace made, or bolero, even removable sleeves. Also matching mini versions for flowergirls or accessorise their dresses using some of the fabric from your bridal dress. A popular and wonderful preference just now, when it presents itself, is to use some of the fabric from a relative's clothing, giving that extra special family significance to your own wedding dress.
For more fashion advice and inspiration, download the latest issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding free at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download
Catherine and Mike are both police officers and met through work. The first team Catherine joined after training college was Mike's and there was an instant spark between them. The more they got to know each other the more they realised how similar they are. When they both had Valentine's Day off in their shift pattern, they seized the opportunity and went on their first date. Shortly after, Covid hit and the couple moved in together; it made sense as being key workers, they both had to continue working throughout the pandemic. “Long walks and many games of Scrabble and Monopoly kept us sane!” Catherine remembers.
Post-lockdown, the two had just come back from a month in Australia when Mike booked them a night away. They went on the Bluebell Railway before taking a romantic walk in Ashdown Forest close to where Mike grew up. It had been raining a few days before, so the ground was still pretty boggy underfoot. Poor Mike had to wait for a while to find a dry patch for him to get down on one knee and pop the question! He'd packed a bottle of fizz and some festival cups so they were able to share a celebratory drink before heading to beautiful Lewes to stay the night. “The ring Mike chose for me was perfect – a sapphire with a diamond halo,” Catherine shares. “It's the ring I've loved since I was a child. My mum and sister have matching versions.”
Gote Barn was the first venue the two looked at and instantly fell in love. “The rustic beams adorned with fairylights on the grounds of a working farm gave it such a magical feel,” Catherine explains. They knew they wanted a venue where they could have both the ceremony and reception in one place and was large enough to accommodate all of their guests, and Gote Barn fit the bill to perfection. “We had the option to choose all of our suppliers, which was important to us as we wanted to support local businesses,” Catherine tells us.
To find out more, download the latest issue free at www.your-sussex.wedding/free-download
Laura and Joe met at a nightclub while at University in Southampton. At the time Laura's best friend was dating Joe's best friend. She set the two up, and the rest, as they say, is history!
Joe proposed at the Westernbirt Arbortetum back in 2021. “Autumn has always been our favourite time of year, and it was here that Joe first told me he loved me three years previous,” Laura explains. It was so perfect for the couple, surrounded by autumn leaves, that it became part of the inspiration for the autumn wedding day – but we're jumping ahead! The proposal came as a complete surprise to Laura: “I was so excited, I said 'yes' the minute he got down on one knee, before he'd even asked the question,” she remembers. “We were with our very naughty one-year-old spaniel, Sully, so I was mostly surprised he didn't steal the ring and run off with it!”
Laura and Joe fell in love with the elegance and timelessness of Tortworth Court, the beautiful glass-topped orangery being a stand out for them. “As a doctor and trainee vet, we're both quite practical, minimalist people and wanted a venue that was classic and simple to fit with our vision,” Laura explains. “We also loved the outdoor spaces. The venue has it's own arboretum, and you can see the trees through the glass roof as you say 'I do.'”
The date was set for their favourite time of year, 25th November.
To find out more, download the latest issue of Your Somerset, Glos & Wilts Wedding free at www.yoursomersetglosandwilts.wedding/free-download
Rachel Peers, founder and principal floral stylist at La Beau Fleurs, Warrington (www.labeaufleurs.co.uk) has plenty of valuable advice to offer when it comes to styling your al fresco space with flowers. “Planning floral arrangements for an outdoor wedding is a delightful experience. I love to get super-creative with ceremony styling and create a truly special space to remember. It's important to work closely with your florist who'll suggest the types of flowers that work best with the season's weather.
“I recently worked with a beautiful couple who chose to have their wedding in their garden at home. We incorporated exquisite white florals against a backdrop of fresh foliage to design statement pieces, including two show-stopping arches and a magnificent meadow runner.
"The weather for this two-day event was eclectic to say the least! We had sunshine, rain, wind and clouds, and back to beautiful sunshine just at the right time. The carefully chosen florals we picked for this event loved the varying conditions and we had very happy flowers! That's why it's important to choose correctly with the help of your floral stylist.”
For more tips on tying the knot al fresco download the latest issue at www.yourcheshiremerseyside.wedding/free-download
Daniel proposed to George at Epcot in Walt Disney World in May 2022 – Daniel's favourite place. It took place first thing in the morning in the Rose Garden located in the UK Pavilion of Epcot. Dan explains, “I felt it was a perfect location that blended a bit of home and a bit of Disney magic. George said yes and we celebrated with the best engagement holiday, being spoilt by all the amazing cast members at Disney World.” When it came to planning the big day, it was only natural that Disney played a big part in the plans and aesthetic for the wedding. Images were captured by: Pippa Heath Photography
The team at Dart's Farm are celebrating receiving their recent outstanding rating from the Trencherman's guide – congratulations! Read more on page nine of the latest issue available to download for FREE!
How stunning is this shot of Vanessa and Dom on their wedding day at the Royal Berkshire? Everything was expertly captured on camera by Vicky Lewis Photography and revealed on page 39 of the new issue available to download now for FREE!
Samantha and Joseph first met while out with friends when they were 14 years old. “We didn’t say hello to each other, but that evening Joseph added me on Facebook and we spoke for four days before Joseph asked me out,” says Samantha. “I found Joseph to be very handsome and talking to him felt so easy and he always made me laugh.”
Joseph proposed on the couple’s eighth anniversary. “He asked me while we were in Poland,” shares the bride. “I had no idea he was going to propose and I was in complete shock when he asked me to marry him!”
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Megan and Simon met in their third year of university. “I was running a social for some of the students and a mutual friend introduced us,” says Megan. “Simon immediately caught my eye, and the three of us ended up getting dinner before the social started. We started out as just friends, but there was a clear connection there from the beginning; we had the same sense of humour, enjoyed the same movies, were both close with our families and loved dogs. A few months later, we had our first official date on Valentine’s Day and the rest is history.”
Simon proposed in February 2022, around six years after they first started dating. “My mom had flown over from the USA, where I’m from, a few months prior and had given Simon my grandmother’s engagement ring, so I knew it was going to happen but wasn’t sure where or when,” shares the bride. “Simon initially intended to propose on a sunset walk in Llanelli while we were visiting his parents, but at the last moment his sister tagged along for the walk, so he wasn’t able to. About a month later, he brought the ring along on another walk with the intention of proposing, but when we got there, it was so muddy that we could hardly walk and were falling over, so he chose to wait again. Finally, it ended up happening at home in our living room, following a conversation about our future that was totally spontaneous. Not the most romantic location, but it didn’t matter to me; I was just happy to finally be engaged and to get to marry my best friend.”
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yoursouthwales.wedding/free-download
Gemma and Adrian were instantly attracted to each other. “We have a lot in common, with many of the same interests,” says Gemma. “I liked Adrian because he always had something interesting to talk about. He was also nicely dressed on dates and always made an effort.”
For Gemma, the proposal was a complete surprise. “After having dinner at a restaurant in Brantôme, France, Adrian and I walked to the end of a bridge where we’d often go get ice cream when we went on holiday there,” shares the bride. “He asked me to be his wife and it was wonderful.”
"Woodhall Manor was gorgeous and had plenty of space for our guests," adds Gemma. "The rooms and the grounds were immaculate! We really enjoyed the venue’s menu tasting day, where we tried some of the courses, pre-drinks and wine. The venue manager, Lorraine, and wedding coordinator, Beth, were incredibly helpful and we couldn’t have done it without them! We also really liked that the venue had a separate bar and dancefloor to separate the night and day. Everyone really enjoyed it there and we still talk about it now!"
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.youreastanglian.wedding/free-download