£3.55 APR/MAY 2022 FASHION, BEAUTY, GROOMS, HONEYMOONS, VENUES AND MORE www.yourberksbucksoxon.wedding WIN! A honeymoon in St Lucia SPOTLIGHT ON...WEST BERKSHIRE & NEWBURY Some of the finest venues unveiled Love al fresco TO HOLD New-season bridal shoes and bags OF MAY Big-day flora and fauna To have and Darling buds KEEPING IT LOCAL W-day news and offers Bohemian styled shoot inspiration for a late-summer wedding THE FRILL OF IT The latest ruffled and layered dresses
B E S P O K E A N D F I T T E D W E D D I N G R I N G S P E C I A L I S T M A S T E R G O L D S M I T H S O N S I T E WO R K S H O P R E P A I R S & A L T E R A T I O N S H O L M E G R A N G E C R A F T V I L L A G E, WO K I N G H A M 0 1 1 8 9 7 8 8 8 3 3 | E N Q U I R I E S@T H O M A S W I L L I A M J E W E L L E R Y. C O M WWW. T H O M A S W I L L I A M J E W E L L E R Y. C O M
3 REGULARS 6 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Claire 9 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions 17 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs 63 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer big-day advice 98 COMPETITION Win a honeymoon in St Lucia CONTENTS APRIL/MAY 2022 FEATURES 51 THE SUPPORT ACT This bohemian styled shoot showcases fashionable looks for the bridal party using a dark colour palette and outdoor venue dressing ideas for a late-summer, al fresco celebration 55 LOVE MADE ME DO IT Nuneham Estate in Oxfordshire provided the beautiful backdrop, in conjunction with Husk Marquees, for this white, green and pink styled shoot 59 DARLING BUDS Big-day bloom inspiration 64 HERE COME THE GIRLS County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey 67 PUT A RING ON IT Sparkling jewellery from some of the finest local jewellers On the cover... This issue’s cover is sponsored by renowned wedding venue Rackleys Chiltern Hills, a luxurious barn set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Buckinghamshire (https://rackleys.co.uk). It was taken by Ellie Mac Photography (www.elliemacphotography.com) at the wedding of Fiona and Danny Bibby. 67 VENUES 23 SPOTLIGHT ON WEST BERKSHIRE & NEWBURY We unveil some of the best wedding venues 27 BIG-DAY BARNS Rustic-inspired venues for a magical day 9
4 GROOMS 89 GROOMS NEWS All the latest best buys and product launches 90 IN THE PINK Fuchsia, watermelon, flamingo, rouge, salmon, coral, hot pink... the choices are endless when it comes to this oh-sofabulous hue! FASHION & BEAUTY 71 FASHION FOCUS Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals her latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches 73 LOVELY IN LACE This classic fabric never goes out of style, whether you choose a traditional gown or a more relaxed, boho-inspired dress 77 THE FRILL OF IT Layers and ruffles adorn dresses in the new-season bridal collections 82 AISLE STYLE From skyscraper stilettos to comfortable flats and even sliders, the new-season bridal shoe collections offer something for everyone 84 BEAUTY BUZZ Beauty editor Kelly Andrews reveals all the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be 86 FASHION AND BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems 88 SKINCARE SUPERHEROES Serums are the skincare essentials of the 20s, especially if you're on the quest for a radiant big-day complexion 94 59 REAL WEDDINGS 32 AN INTIMATE AFFAIR Claudia and William's stylish celebration that took place at The Feathered Nest Country Inn was decorated with a minimalist and neutral theme 39 SOMETHING NEW Rebecca and Michael's big day took place at the stunning Rackleys Chiltern Hills, a new wedding venue located in Buckinghamshire 45 LOCAL LOVE Ardington House located in Oxfordshire provided the beautiful backdrop for Catherine and Tamsin's special day that was decorated with a pink, cream and navy theme 77 82 HONEYMOONS 92 HONEYMOON NEWS A round-up of new openings and honeymoon essentials 94 GOURMET LOVERS PARADISE IN THE ALGARVE... With 3,000 hours of sunshine and just a threehour flight from the UK, the Algarve offers a delightful year-round destination
J O I N U S F O R OU R F I R S T E V E R WEDD I NG SHOWC A S E S at u rd ay 2 1 s t M ay , 1 1 a m - 3 p m Welcome to Mapledurham Estate - a charmingly traditional yet modern working estate tucked away in the picturesque village of Mapledurham, a stones throw from Reading. With the magnificent backdrop of our very own working water mill and majestic willow trees, nestled on the banks of The River Thames, the setting is simply perfect for all your wedding needs. We believe that your big day should have no limits, so whether it’s your reception, ceremony or both, we’ll make sure that on your day you have everything you have dreamt of and more with memories to last a lifetime. We have 3 bespoke packages, tailored to suit all of your requirements, no request is too big and we will always endeavour to deliver a truly beautiful experience. WE WO R K C L O S E LY W I T H T AY L O R - MA D E WE DD I N G S A ND WE ’ R E D E L I G H T E D T O O F F E R T H R E E PA C KA G E S : Willow - Exclusive use of the location and an event Supervisor on the day. Fee - £2,500 Cedar - Exclusive use of the location, plus an experiened Wedding Planner to manage your day. Fee - £2,800. Magnolia - Exclusive use of the location, a Wedding Planner to assist with the co-ordination of your day from start to finish, unlimited phone and email support, up to 4 face to face/virtual meetings and an event manager to oversee the whole day. Fee - £3,500. M a p l e d u rh a m Ho u s e , R G 4 7 T R P l e a s e r e g i s t e r y o u r at t e nd a n c e t o a dm i n@ tay l o r - m a d e w e dd i n g s . c o . u k @m a p l e d u rh a m _ e s tat e @m a p l e d u rh a m e s tat e Including live music, two bridal fashion shows, complimentary food and drink and the chance to meet over 40 amazing suppliers under 5 different Tipi’s provided by the team at Raw Tipis!
How cool is this dress by the designer Kate Fearnley? On page 73, you’ll discover more from the latest bridal collections. ISSN 2049-4203 EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 Claire Ridley | Editor clairer@county.wedding Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor, Grooms Editor and Travel Editor Kelly Andrews | Senior Editor and Beauty Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding Graphic Designers | Sarah Hill Stephanie Hodder | Vicky O’Connor Production Assistant | Lorna Butcher Digital Marketing Coordinator Katie Laley Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley ADVERTISING Sales & Events Director Sarah Ellis | 01376 538 490 sarahe@county.wedding Account Manager Julia Owen | 01376 538 556 julia.owen@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James Your Berks Bucks & Oxon Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Your Berks Bucks & Oxon Wedding is published six times a year. Subscription rates are £18.20 per annum (incl. p+p). Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing and sent to Your Berks Bucks & Oxon Wedding, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. @YourBerksBucksOxonWedding @CWM_YBBOW @cwm_wedding Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com EVENTS & PUBLISHING cwe COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS With 2022 in full swing and Easter just around the corner, this is a great time to plan your wedding cake and flowers, especially if you’re having a late-spring or summer celebration and our packed features about these topics in this issue are not to be missed! There’s also real-life wedding inspiration, expert advice from local suppliers, big-day beauty and beautiful bridal fashion. Check out www.yourberksbucksoxon.wedding and our fabulous social channels for plenty more ideas including jewellery, accessories, groom’s fashion, honeymoon destinations and stunning styled shoots. In other news, we’ve created our very own County Wedding Magazines YouTube channel, providing our readers with plenty of wedspiration from venue tours to dream dresses. Catch up on beauty reviews and how-tos from our beauty editor and peek behind the scenes of styled shoots featured in our titles past and present. You can even be a fly on the wall at some real weddings and you’ll also find local supplier interviews packed with tips and tricks. We’re adding more content all the time, so why not hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a thing? It’s your one-stop shop for wedding vid-spiration! Simply head to YouTube and search County Wedding Magazines. Wishing you all a chocolate-filled Easter and I’ll see you next issue! Claire x Claire Ridley, Editor Happy Easter! Berkshire-based Queen Bee Bridal have unveiled some of their trendsetting looks for summer. All is revealed on page 86. Check out this showstopping design from Sonning Flowers located in Berkshire, recent winners at the 2022 Wedding Industry Awards. Turn to pages nine and 59 to see more fab florals from the talented team. 6
Check out Berkshire-based barn venue Ufton Weddings on page 27, a rustic-inspired choice with glorious gardens. Anyone who knows me well will tell you that I love anything vintage so when I spotted this hair comb by Oxfordshire-based Vintage Adornments, I fell in love! Turn to page 67 to find more treasures. Catherine and Tamsin’s wedding at Ardington House in Oxfordshire followed a pink, cream and navy theme. Read their story on page 45 and don’t forget to watch their video! Our cover photographer for this issue, Jodie DC Mitchell captured this stunning shot at www.instagram.com/secretgardensevents as part of our styled shoot. See it in full on page 51. Bride Claudia looks super-stylish in the white jumpsuit that she wore at her wedding to William at The Feathered Nest Country Inn. Turn to page 32 to read all about it. The marquis diamond shape has always been a favourite of mine and this design by Marlow-based jewellers Alicia J Diamonds is exquisite. To see more stunning sparklers, turn to page 67. I love the romantic setting, stylish outside and the neon sign all showcased in our bohemian-inspired shoot revealed on page 55. EDITOR’S LETTER 7
Aline’s Orchard Perfect for a large marquee and outside reception space Weddings, Family Fun Days, Corporate Entertainment and Family Celebrations we have the perfect location and imagination to create your dream experience. This venue is located within the beautiful walled garden surrounded by apple & pear trees, complete with a wild flower meadow. There is onsite parking for over 100 cars Events & Weddings at Welford Park www.welfordpark.co.uk contact@welfordpark.co.uk Welford Events Limited, Welford Park, Welford, Newbury Berkshire RG20 8HU Weddings at Wasing Exclusively yours, to bring the wedding of your dreams to life. Lovingly restored grade II listed buildings, including the majestic Castle Barn, seating up to 140 guests and the Victorian Summerhouse for outdoor ceremonies, sit alongside the 15th century Parish Church of St Nicholas. Twenty six luxurious rooms at the boutique Stables Lodge include a Granary, a fairy tale Dovecote and a Honeymoon Suite to die for, with the biggest bed in Berkshire. WWW.WASING.CO.UK/WEDDINGS | WASINGPARK@WEDDING -VENUES.CO.UK | 01 189070199 Image by Studio Rouge
NEWS The latest news from around both counties HEYTHROP HOTEL IN OXFORDSHIRE SET TO REOPEN AFTER INVESTMENT A Chipping Norton venue is set to undergo a £40million investment after being acquired by a national leisure and hospitality group. Heythrop Park Resort was purchased by Bourne Leisure in 2018, building on its already impressive portfolio. It will now become the latest hotel for the Warner Leisure Hotels family, renowned for its adult-only breaks. Heythrop will be the fifteenth hotel in the Warner portfolio and is set to become the biggest and best. The multi-million-pound investment will transform the current space into a stunning country haven for those looking for a short break away without children. The transformation will see the creation of 337 bedrooms, allowing 18th-century opulence to meet modern luxury and retaining the property’s historic feel alongside a host of contemporary facilities. Guests can expect chic lounges, vibrant bars and outdoor terraces plus a ballroom theatre. Live music and exquisite dining will be provided across three restaurants. The grounds will provide acres of exploration for guests, who can spend their days strolling through parkland or enjoying scenic cycle routes. The hotel’s spa will house an indoor pool, a new thermal and sensory suite and beauty and wellness treatments. Warner will also be retaining the 18-hole Bainbridge Championship Course, which Heythrop is famous for. Taking to the helm as general manager, Dean Saunders joined the Warner family as a lifeguard at one of its coastal hotels and progressively worked his way up to managing the group’s flagship property, Studley Castle in Warwickshire. Bringing more than 30 years of experience to the role, Dean’s main mission is to provide guests with the perfect place to unwind. Managing director of Warner Leisure Hotels, Simon Thompson, said, “We’re delighted to have acquired such an impressive property in what is a beautiful part of the UK. It’s our first property in Oxfordshire and is set to be our biggest and best - we look forward to bringing even more tourism to the area.” Dean Saunders added, “Heythrop brings together the best of both worlds – inside and out. Guests will have a unique sense of space here, with the option to explore, relax or be entertained without ever having to leave the stunning surroundings. When the opportunity to manage such an amazing place came up, I jumped at it. I can’t wait to greet new guests and begin our exciting journey here in the summer.” Heythrop Park is set to open this summer. The estate covers more than 440 acres of land and will be the largest Warner property to date. To book, visit www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk DE VERE BEAUMONT ESTATE ANNOUNCES AWARD WIN Jon Luca Keane, senior chef de partie at De Vere Beaumont Estate located in Old Windsor was recently crowned Junior Chef Champion in the IACC UK Copper Skillet competition. Jon Luca now progresses to the next stage, where he will travel to Las Vegas, representing the UK to compete for the title of the Global Copper Skillet Champion which will take place in May 2022. During the competition, participating chefs were tasked with creating a dish using basic pantry items and a mystery basket of proteins and other fresh, dairy and grocery produce. They were given 30 minutes to prepare, create, and present their dishes to the judges. Jon Luca’s winning dish was crispy-fried pork tenderloin medallions, warm niçoise salad and Bearnaise sauce. Commenting on Jon Luca’s win, Bruce McDowell, De Vere’s group food and beverage manager, said, “We’re thrilled for Jon Luca on his win at the UK Copper Skillet. This is a testament to his culinary excellence, and of course, we’re also immensely proud of his work at De Vere Beaumont Estate. We wish him the best of luck for the finals in Las Vegas later this year.” Mark Cooper, CEO of IACC said, “I am very impressed by the skills that Jon Luca showcased at the UK Copper Skillet competition. De Vere has a fantastic track record of producing young culinary talent, with four of their chefs now having gone on to compete at the Global Copper Skillet competition. I wish Jon Luca the best of luck and I look forward to seeing what he creates in the final at IACC Americas Connect in May.” In other news at the property, in celebration of World Book Day that took place on 3rd March 2022, the De Vere hotel group has announced a partnership with British publishing house Bloomsbury to launch a new book club that will mean guests can loan a choice of four titles during their stay that will be refreshed on a bi-monthly basis to include a variety of recent launches, topical reads, and modern classics. The first selection includes Greenwich Park by author Katherine Faulkner, Sunday Times bestseller A Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende, Somebody I Used to Know, a powerful memoir by Wendy Mitchell and In Control: Dangerous Relationships and How They End in Murder, by Professor Jane Monckton-Smith. The book club is available De Vere Beaumont Estate as well as De Vere Latimer Estate in Buckinghamshire and De Vere Wokefield Estate near Reading. To book, call 01753 640 000 or visit www.devere.co.uk/beaumont-estate #DeVerexBloomsbury Nearlywed 9 LOCAL NEWS
MACDONALD HOTELS SEE A SIGNIFICANT RISE IN WEDDING ENQUIRIES Love is in the air at Macdonald Hotels, with events experts from the top hotel group recording a 40% increase in wedding enquiries in the first few weeks of the new year compared to the same period last year. Set within stunning landscaped gardens, the four-star Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa, Ascot has everything needed for a memorable and spectacular wedding. The secluded manor house enjoys an on-site spa, where couples can indulge in a pre-wedding pamper session, a roof-top terrace perfect for reception drinks and an award-winning restaurant. There are also manicured gardens, a sweeping oak staircase and open fireplaces. Located a short drive from Heathrow Airport and less than one hour from central London, the venue is easily accessible to guests travelling from across the country. The hotel’s specialist wedding coordinators can support all elements of the wedding journey from the venue hire and catering to the finishing personal touches. To book, visit www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/berystede THE LUND COLLECTION LAUNCHES IN OXFORDSHIRE Bergman Design House, the award-winning studio founded by Marie Soliman and Albin Berglund, is delighted to unveil The Lund Collection, launching in the Cotswolds this spring. The design-led, one-bedroom private cottage is located just a stone’s throw from Chipping Norton and Great Tew in Oxfordshire and provides an oasis of calm for couples, friends and solo travellers alike. Exquisitely decorated, it features a carefully-curated collection of original artwork and vintage treasures alongside new bespoke furniture from the studio’s Black Berg Collection. From 17thcentury Chinese ceramics and an 18th-century marriage armoire that turns into a showstopping drinks cabinet to a modern and luxurious deep-soaking bathtub, it’s a design-lovers dream. Marie Soliman, founder and creative director of Bergman Design House tells us, “What’s been so enjoyable about this project has been the treasure hunt for the most incredible antique and vintage finds, all of which tell their own unique story while highlighting the beauty of the newer items next to them.” In the process of creating The Lund Collection, Marie comments, “It’s an approach I like to call organised chaos; the creation of a space that’s both functional and timeless, with a playful hint of surprise or whimsical energy.” Inspired by the beauty of the Cotswolds, the property features a colour palette that reflects all four seasons, from the vibrant green of summer to the russet orange tones of autumn. The Lund Collection is Bergman Design House’s foray into a new line of luxury individual accommodations in the UK, providing the utmost privacy while offering the ultimate guest experience. Featuring a fully stocked bar, hand-curated welcome hamper and a state-of-the-art Swedish Moccamaster coffee machine, guests will arrive, immediately relax and feel at home. Creating and designing the property has been a passion project for Marie and Albin, and they hope it will be a sanctuary for future guests seeking an escape in the countryside. “We fell in love with this cottage and the stunning countryside. We’re so thrilled to share it with our guests. It’s intended to be a sanctuary for all who visit - we want our guests to come here and truly switch off, connect with nature and feel at home,” said Marie. Prices start from £595 per night including a welcome hamper with wines personally curated by Albin. To book, visit www.thelundcollection.com http://thebeautifuldue.co.uk NUNEHAM ESTATE The Cricket Field at Nuneham Estate in Oxfordshire is a new marquee wedding reception venue in collaboration with Husk Marquees, perfect for laid-back, bohemian-style weddings. To find out more and to book, visit www.nuneham.com and turn to page 55 to see our exclusive shoot that took place at the venue. http://thebeautifuldue.co.uk 10
T H E P E R F E C T MU S I C C HO I C E F O R YOU R WE DD I N G - BOO K ME T ODAY Being an award-winning wedding DJ, I can say it’s the best job in the World! I get to play music that wedding guests want to dance to, and couples will remember forever and there is always love in the air! I will make all the difference to your evening wedding reception playing music that all ages will love from Presley to Sheeran, Sinatra to Stormzy. D J - V - CO . U K / WE DD I N G S / V L AT KO@D J - V . CO . U K 0 7 9 4 9 3 3 5 4 4 8 C H E C K AVA I L A B I L I T Y A ND G E T A F R E E QUO TAT I ON Scan to view video
As unigue as you W E D D I N G C A K E TO BOOK A CONSULTATION www.keighersofcaversham.com keighersofcaversham@gmail.com @keighers_of_caversham Follow us on: /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration WEMBLEY STADIUM, LONDON ONE OF THE LARGEST WEDDING SHOWS TO BE HELD IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND SUNDAY 5TH MARCH, 2023 • Free entry • Win a luxury honeymoon • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Bridal fashion shows • Entertainment • Refreshments • Covid-19 secure Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of IN ASSOCIATION WITH
MONKEY ISLAND ESTATE WEDDING AND HONEYMOON OFFERS YTL Hotels’ have revealed the ultimate wedding and honeymoon offers. Couples who host their wedding celebrations at Monkey Island Estate in Bray (or The Glasshouse in Edinburgh) will be treated to a complimentary honeymoon at their choice of four YTL Hotels’ flagship properties in Bali and Malaysia. Couples booking a traditional British country wedding costing more than £35,000 at Monkey Island Estate (or a vibrant city wedding costing more than £10,000 at The Glasshouse) will receive a complimentary seven-night honeymoon plus a generous daily resort credit to be used towards their choice of gourmet dining, spa treatment or selected activities in their chosen destination. All couples booking this unrivalled offer can look forward to a week in a luxury villa with daily breakfast at luxury five-star Pangkor Laut Resort, a tropical private island offering a mix of tranquillity and romance, or Tanjong Jara Resort on the east coast of Malaysia, where they can look forward to a taste of the region’s spirit and heritage. Borneo’s Gaya Island Resort is also included as part of the offer which celebrates the magic of Borneo’s exotic local nature and wildlife in a spectacular setting with an indulgent spa, delicious cuisine and signature experiences. The fourth signature YTL property included is the award-winning Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali nestled along northeast Bali’s exotic coast of black sand with a focus on spirituality and wellness. Here, guests have the bonus of not just a complimentary seven-night stay, but the ease of staying on a full-board basis with daily spa experiences. To book, call 0207 657 8200 or, for wedding bookings for Monkey Island Estate, email weddings@monkeyislandestate.co.uk. For The Glasshouse, email events@theglasshousehotel.co.uk *Terms & Conditions: Offers exclude flights and are applicable on new bookings only. Stays at YTL Hotels’ three selected Malaysian resorts are on a bed and breakfast basis. Stays at Spa Village Tembok Bali are on a full-board basis with daily spa experiences. www.monkeyislandestate.co.uk HENLEY FESTIVAL REVEALS ICONIC 40THANNIVERSARY LINE-UP Henley Festival, presented by Westcoast is the UK’s most glamorous music and arts festival which has revealed the line-up for this year’s 40th-anniversary celebrations taking place from Wednesday 6th to Sunday 10th July 2022. Festival-goers can expect music, comedy, art, dancing, gastronomy and fireworks at this boutique black-tie festival. Henley Festival is world-renowned for curating a vibrant programme spanning pop, classical and jazz music and this year is set to be the biggest one yet. The show begins with troupes of entertainers, rides on the vintage funfair plus Moët Champagne served on the lawn against the backdrop of the river and it concludes with a jaw-dropping firework spectacular. One of the world’s most successful bands, The Script, will open Henley Festival’s Floating Stage on Wednesday evening with a selection of their biggest hits and favourites from their career-spanning greatest hits album Tales From The Script. Henley Festival’s opening night will be brought to a close by Euro-disco phenomenon Boney M where the original lead singer Liz Mitchell will be performing international chartbusters in the Festival Club. On Thursday, one of the most successful artists in UK chart history, Craig David, will perform an epic evening of his best-loved hits and the legendary Sir Tom Jones will return to Henley on Friday evening to captivate the crowd with music from his 41st studio album Surrounded By Time. On Saturday, DJ, broadcaster and global dance music legend Pete Tong, together with The Heritage Orchestra and Jules Buckley, will present an unforgettable evening of iconic classical electronic music. This year’s festival will close with an extraordinary 40th Anniversary Concert on Sunday evening, featuring an exclusive line-up of special guests to be announced. To book tickets, visit https://henley-festival.co.uk COMING SOON The Plough at Shiplake near Henley-onThames will open this May. It’s the second venture from married chef couple Liam and Ryan Simpson-Trotman, owners of Orwells Restaurant in Binfield Heath. Expect all-day dining in a family and dog-friendly pub serving great food, with plenty of outdoor cooking from a pizza oven and grill. To find out more, visit www.theploughshiplake.co.uk LOCAL NEWS 13
BLENHEIM PALACE LAUNCHES NEW PODCAST SERIES AND IS SHORTLISTED FOR TOP TOURISM AWARD Blenheim Palace has been shortlisted for the Beautiful South Awards for Excellence. The Oxfordshire UNESCO World Heritage Site is a finalist in the Access and Inclusive Tourism Award and the winner will be announced at a ceremony on the 25th of April. The Award recognises tourism businesses providing truly memorable visitor experiences for everyone, particularly those with accessibility requirements, and demonstrating excellence across every aspect of the business. In recent years, Blenheim Palace has introduced a series of initiatives designed to make its visitor experience more accessible. Examples include the creation of new touch tours for the visually impaired, sensory maps, accessible pathways and the introduction of Access Champions who work in visitor-facing roles on-site to promote accessibility and inclusiveness. A new Access Desk has also been introduced in the Palace’s main Visitor Centre where trained staff provide help and advice. During the lockdown, ticket sales moved entirely online. Blenheim’s Digital Team recognised the importance of creating a user-friendly interface for all visitors and built a website that achieved a 100% score on Google Lighthouse, which audits performance and accessibility. Head of operations Emily Spencer said, “We’re very pleased to have been shortlisted for this award as accessibility and inclusivity is something we take extremely seriously across the business. As a team, we still have a lot to learn and there are many areas where we can improve but it’s inspiring to see our efforts have been recognised by a panel of tourism experts.” Judging is carried out by an independent panel of past winners, industry leaders and experts in their field, selected for their impartiality, experience and suitability for each category. Overall winners will then be entered into the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, which takes place in June. In other news at the venue, Blenheim Palace is launching a series of podcasts on Spotify. With topics ranging from hidden rooms inside Blenheim’s iconic grand bridge and the palace’s starring roles in a series of blockbuster movies to fashion and Winston Churchill, the 20-part series provides a fascinating insight into the Oxfordshire UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hosted by Blenheim’s social historian Antonia Keaney, the series also features interviews with comedian and TV presenter Sue Perkins, writer and broadcaster Hugo Vickers and author Josh Ireland. As well as the stories about the palace’s rich heritage and the cast of famous historical characters, Antonia also talks to current members of the team including Blenheim archivist Alexa Frost, head of operations Heather Carter, who describes the challenges and rewards of running a great estate, and award-winning travel photographer Pete Seaward. “We began providing online talks and virtual tours during the lockdown as a way for us to stay in touch with people who couldn’t visit in person,” said Antonia. “I was surprised and delighted with the positive feedback and so we decided to expand our offering and produce a series of podcasts. It has been lovely for me to be able to talk to such a diverse group of fascinating people who each have their unique connection to Blenheim and I hope others will enjoy the fascinating insights and stories their interviews reveal.” The series also features British journalist and politician Rachel Trethewey talking about her books on the children of Winston Churchill, Blenheim’s most famous son, an interview with historic textiles conservator Emma Telford on her work with the palace’s priceless 300-year-old tapestries and an insight into what life was really like at a great estate. All of the podcasts are available to download on Spotify. To find out more and to book, visit www.blenheimpalace.com CONGRATULATIONS! To Sonning Flowers who recently won the prestigious Wedding Florist of the Year award at the 2022 Wedding Industry Awards. Turn to page 59 to read all about it and to find out more, visit www.sonningflowers.com EUTHYMIA CAKES BY EVA COCKRELL WINS AWARD Euthymia Cakes by Eva Cockrell of Buckinghamshire has been awarded Best Wedding Cakes in the Hitched Wedding Awards 2022. The awards recognise excellence offered by wedding businesses in the UK and signify a trusted seal of approval for couples planning their weddings. This year’s awards are based on nearly 8 million opinions from couples and more than 16,000 venues and suppliers participated. Euthymia Cakes by Eva Cockrell received several glowing reviews on Hitched, making them the winner of the award in their field. To book, visit https://euthymia.co.uk 14
Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration Follow us on /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents Hosted at Mercedes-Benz World Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0SL A date for your diary... DATE TO BE RELEASED SOON • Free entry • Win a luxury honeymoon • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Bridal fashion shows • Entertainment • Refreshments • Covid-19 secure One of the largest wedding shows to be held in the South of England Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of Hosted at IN ASSOCIATION WITH SPONSORED BY
Pre-register at countyweddingevents.com/registration Follow us on /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents Hosted at Ascot Racecourse, High Street Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7JX A date for your diary... Sunday 24th April 2022 | 11am to 3.30pm IN ASSOCIATION WITH • Free entry • Win a luxury honeymoon • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Bridal fashion shows • Entertainment • Refreshments • Covid-19 secure One of the largest wedding shows to be held in the South of England Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER VIA OUR WEBSITE. Closing date 3rd June 2022. Terms and conditions apply. HAVE FUNWITH FITNESS Heba Pilates is a local Buckinghamshire/Berkshire-based business that was founded to make machine-based pilates more accessible and to boost participation. Co-founded by local businesswoman Samantha Kellard, a pilates guru and expert, and Moritz Wuttke, it will be expanding into London and Sydney, Australia, later this year following the successful opening of its first three studios in Marlow, Windsor and Beaconsfield. Reformer Pilates is recommended for a range of reasons, from helping alleviate chronic pain to improving posture and health. It aims to do so with a new, state-of-the-art Reformer-type machine called the Nuforma which Samantha, who has 20 years of experience teaching pilates and ten years with her own pilates studios, developed in-house over the last few years. On hand in each studio are Heba pilates guides (who are fitness specialists) who will adjust the Nuforma sessions ensuring every user makes good progress. The Nuforma has a monitor screen so that users can choose their own pre-recorded guided session, plus an app making suggestions based on experience, expertise and achievement. Sessions are booked via the app so that each user can secure their own space in advance. Samantha tells us, “Pilates is the foundation of my life, it’s what you need to do to stand up tall, move around, be confident and function in the modern world. Heba Pilates was born to make it easy for people to make pilates part of their lives and get the benefit. I always wanted to make pilates ordinary, more user-friendly and more appealing so that everyone would want to do it and feel that they could do it.” Heba Pilates studios are open Mondays to Thursdays from 7am until 9pm, on Fridays from 7am until 2.30pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 8.30am until 4pm. Your Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wedding magazine has teamed up with Heba Pilates to offer readers three months unlimited use for £99 per calendar month (usual price is £155 pcm). To find out more and to take advantage of our exclusive offer, visit https://hebapilates.com quoting YBBOW94. Take advantage of these great giveaways Freebies &OFFERS Coppa Club’s The Swan at Streatley is a tranquil countryside getaway set in the Berkshire village of Streatley. Situated on the River Thames, roughly an hour from London, the 47-bedroom property has been newly refurbished and offers river-view rooms, or suites opening onto the garden lawn making it a great option for a dog-friendly getaway! The grounds include the property’s own private island, lovely walks for couples and families (and four-legged companions) and the property is also ideal for riverside weddings, seating up to 130 friends and family! Perfect for a pre- or post-wedding getaway, guests can access the property via car, boat or helicopter and have access to on-site paddle boarding, exercise classes, hotel gym and events throughout the year. You can book a Small Double Room from £80 per night, and a Medium Double Room from £100 per night. Check out www.theswanatstreatley.com County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Coppa Club The Swan At Streatley to give readers the chance to win an overnight stay for two people with breakfast, as well as a three-course meal with a bottle of fizz! WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY FREEBIES & OFFERS 17
Pre-register for all of our events at www.countyweddingevents.com ASCOT RACECOURSE, 24TH APRIL, 2022 THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE, 2ND OCTOBER, 2022 WEMBLEY STADIUM, 5TH MARCH, 2023 MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD, DATE TO BE RELEASED X Sarah Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to kickstarting our Spring wedding show season. From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues, to our larger Signature Wedding Shows home to more than 100 exhibitors each, we can’t wait to welcome back our couples and help plan their wedding days. Here’s what to expect when attending one of our events... Whether you’re joyous that restrictions have passed, or are still a little hesitant, couples can rest assured our venues are continuing to maintain some of the government guidelines and measures to ensure everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy the day: • Attendees will need to pre-register to attend events • There will be allocated time slots for visitors • All venues will also have enhanced cleaning procedures, with hand washing and sanitising facilities still available • Spaces between exhibition booths will be maintained to ease congestion • Optional face masks • Anyone with symptoms must refrain from visiting Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof. On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés, and attending our exhibitions is free! For more information on any of our exhibitions visit County Wedding Events’ website. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events. Sarah Ellis, Sales and Events Director County Wedding Events. Psst! Our pre-registered Signature Wedding Show visitors will have the chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of Spabreaks.com A date for your diary... GREAT EXPECTATIONS
SPRING 2022 WEDDING SHOWS ALL EVENTS 11AM - 3PM unless otherwise stated Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration LONDON At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area. All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day. SUN 3 APR | MORDEN HALL Morden Hall Road, SM4 5JD SURREY ESSEX SUN 15 MAY | GUILDFORD MANOR HOTEL & SPA Newlands Corner, Guildford,, GU4 8SE SUN 10 APR | MARKSHALL ESTATE Coggeshall, CO6 1TG SUSSEX SUN 10 APR | CASTLE GORING Arundel Road, Worthing BN13 3UN
AUTUMN 2022 WEDDING SHOWS ALL EVENTS 11AM - 3PM unless otherwise stated As part of KD Events and Publishing Ltd, County Wedding Events (CWE) is ideally placed to offer you a wealth of experience organising events in the wedding industry. If you would like more information about either holding a wedding show at your venue or exhibiting at any of our shows, please contact us at info@countyweddingevents.com, call 01376 514000 or visit countyweddingevents.com. WORK WITH US ESSEX SUN 16 OCT | BRAXTED PARK Great Braxted, Witham, CM8 3EN SUN 23 OCT | HOUCHINS WEDDING VENUE Houchin’s Lane, Coggeshall, Colchester CO6 1RT SURREY SUN 4 SEPT | GUILDFORD MANOR HOTEL & SPA Newlands Corner, Guildford,, GU4 8SE KENT SUN 6 NOV | HYTHE IMPERIAL HOTEL & SPA Princes Parade, Hythe, CT21 6AE BERKS, BUCKS & OXON SUN 25 SEPT | RACKLEYS CHILTERN HILLS Marlow Road, Cadmore End, Bucks, HP14 3PP 12pm-4pm /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents
• Free entry • First 100 couples receive a free wedding journal keepsake • Goody bag for each couple • Up to 200 stands • Bridal fashion shows • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Demonstration areas • Competitions • Entertainment • Refreshments • And more... Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, CM15 9NN SUNDAY 2 OCTOBER | 11AM - 3.30PM THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE London, HA9 0WS SUNDAY 5 MARCH 2023 | 11AM - 3:30PM WEMBLEY STADIUM High Street, Berkshire, SL5 7JX SUNDAY 24 APRIL 2022 | 11AM - 3:30PM ASCOT RACECOURSE Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL DATE TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD Sponsored by
HENLEY GREENLANDS The Perfect Riverside Venue. Grand white house, gorgeous grounds, stunning views of the river, inclusive & bespoke packages, menus created from the finest produce, dedicated & professional team, licensed civil ceremony rooms and 100 en-suite bedrooms - Greenlands, memorable for all the right reasons. Telephone: 01491 418 810 or 01491 414 550 Email: info@venuehenley.com Venue Henley, Greenlands, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 3AU hospitalityuor.co.uk/venue-henley-weddings Follow us on: /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration THE BRENTWOOD CENTRE, ESSEX ONE OF THE LARGEST WEDDING SHOWS TO BE HELD IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND SUNDAY 2ND OCTOBER - 11AM TO 3:30PM • Free entry • Win a luxury honeymoon • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Bridal fashion shows • Entertainment • Refreshments • Covid-19 secure Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of IN ASSOCIATION WITH
WEST BERKSHIRE AND NEWBURY From tipis to stretch tents, we reveal where to wed THE GREAT HOUSE SONNING Coppa Club’s Sonning-On-Thames boutique hotel, home to 49 bedrooms, was the first Coppa Club property to open its doors six years ago. It’s home to a café, bar, restaurant and lounge with an informal, relaxed private members club feel without the fees. Sister properties in the three regions include those in Henley-On-Thames, Maidenhead and Streatley-on-Thames. It’s an ideal location for a wedding with beautifully designed party spaces that can host ceremonies for up to 120 guests overlooking the gardens and river. Couples wanting a church wedding can do so in one of the nearby villages and then head back to the hotel for the celebrations. The Private Dining room is a light-filled space that can seat up to 120 guests for the wedding breakfast and hold up to 200 party-goers for the evening reception. The room is also adaptable for a more intimate celebration, and a selection of other private rooms are also on offer, accommodating between 10 and 120 loved ones. These spaces are also the perfect spot for a pre-wedding family dinner or a morning-after breakfast. The Coppa Club chefs have created a collection of menus for the wedding breakfast with a fresh, modern approach and a complimentary tasting is included in the wedding packages. Coppa has also launched the Healthy Specials menu (available until spring). It’s dedicated to supporting guests with a conscious dining experience allowing them to eat as well, if not better than they would in their own home. At each property, a specialised menu accompanies the standard à la carte one featuring nutritious options that benefit the body and mind. The Healthy Specials menu includes multiple vegan options such as nourishing chia seed pods complemented with coconut, maple and vanilla; vegetarian dishes including spiced-roasted cauliflower and poached chicken salads. Alongside Coppa’s new Healthy Specials menu is a choice of no and low-alcohol cocktails including the Sanguinello Spritz, a delicious combination of Crossip Pure Hibiscus, Fever-Tree blood orange soda, rosemary and a citrus twist. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 0118 969 2277, www.greathouseatsonning.co.uk ❤ We love... that couples can arrive at their wedding their way! Why not sail up to the hotel, arrive in a vintage car or take a stroll from the bedroom after spending the night there? ANOTHER OPTION Following a recent £50million redevelopment, Newbury Racecourse’s outdoor venue is a magical setting where ceremonies take place in the Parade Ring as well as in The Winners Enclosure. There’s also a Royal Box that has been refurbished with period features, a variety of event spaces hosting between 40 and 550 guests, an area for a large marquee, on-site catering facilities, car parking for more than 3,000 vehicles plus a complimentary room for the newlyweds at The Lodge hotel. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01635 897 925, https://weddings.newburyracecourse.co.uk ❤ We love... that while the venue offers a range of wedding packages, they are also flexible and happy to discuss each couple’s requirements. Spotlight on... REGIONAL VENUES 23
FOREST EDGE TIPIS, NEWBURY This family-run wedding and events company offers the opportunity for ceremonies and receptions to take place in an authentic Nordic tipi, hand-crafted in Sweden and sustainably sourced. There’s a choice of exclusive-use venues, from wildflower meadows, ancient woodlands and even organic sustainable farms, and the unique design of these structures provide a blank canvas to be styled for an intimate micro wedding, with one long table in the middle or larger celebrations with a festival vibe. The impressive tipis provide a wonderful backdrop for photographs. The height of them allows for statement floral chandeliers or flower clouds to be suspended from the ceiling and festoon lighting and fairylights wrapped around the poles create a romantic ambience. Couples can select from a range of configurations so the layout can change for each wedding. Ceremonies conducted by an independent celebrant, or blessings, can take place inside or outside, and the talented team at Forest Edge Tipis can erect a separate one for the ceremony if required. Receptions take place inside the tipis with guest numbers ranging from 30 to 250. Ceremony licence? No Contact: 07917 792 941, www.forestedgetipis.com ❤ We love... that bespoke packages can be created to suit each couple’s requirements and these packages include the hire of rustic-stye furniture, generators, luxury toilets and even bell tents for the first-night stay and guest accommodation. There’s also the choice of bed and breakfast accommodation and serviced cottages at some of the venues. ANOTHER OPTION Donnington Grove hotel in Newbury is set in 500 acres of countryside just one mile from the town centre. It’s accessed via a winding driveway leading to the manor house, boasting Strawberry Hill Gothic architecture, named after Horace Warpole who had Strawberry Hill in London created for him. The main house and venue rooms were built more than 250 years ago and are home to period features including chandeliers and original hand-painted wallpaper. Think of it as a period property with modern amenities and high standards of service. Landscaped grounds surround the hotel, with a full PGA championship golf course running through the middle, offering a variety of photographic opportunities including a folly and lake. Ceremonies take place in the Cloudy Room for up to 75 loved ones. The Kennet can seat up to 80 guests for a ceremony and the Avon room accommodates an intimate 30 people. The Japanese pagoda offers another option, seating up to 30 guests. Receptions take place in the marquee for up to 120 people or in one of the venue rooms depending on the couple’s requirements. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01635 581 000, www.donnington-grove.com ❤ We love... that the team offer the couple a complimentary stay on the night of the wedding and the first anniversary, plus we also offer a free tasting menu. hotography of Forest Edge Tipis courtesy of www.jenniecolbourne.co.uk WASING PARK WEDDINGS, ALDERMASTON This award-winning exclusive-use barn wedding venue is home to the picturesque parish Church of St. Nicholas, an idyllic Victorian Summerhouse embellished with a pretty hand-painted mural and the contemporary Garden Room with bi-fold doors allowing the outdoors in. With 4,000 acres of land and more than 250 years of history, the family-owned Wasing Estate houses historic buildings, glistening lakes and a walled garden. Wasing Park sits at the heart of the estate, the perfect pick for a romantic barn wedding. There’s a choice of 26 luxury bedrooms sleeping up to 64 guests with each one boasting bespoke design within an elegant historical setting, from the unique Grade II listed Granary sat proudly on its staddle stones to the fairytale-inspired Dovecote and a Honeymoon Suite featuring the largest bed in Berkshire. Ceremonies take place in the Garden Room, outside in the Victorian Summerhouse or the parish church situated within the grounds. The magnificent Castle Barn offers a blank canvas for wedding receptions that can be decked in fairylights and decorated with candles and floral displays. Guests can relax and enjoy the delicious food beneath the new stretch tent floating over the terrace at the back of the Castle Barn. Filled with comfortable seating, cosy blankets, twinkling lights and firepits, this area provides outdoor space that can be used all year round. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 0118 907 0199, www.wasing.co.uk/weddings ❤ We love... that the estate regularly hosts a variety of wellbeing activities, including bridal yoga and yoga classes at its new Pavilion. 24
Allsuitesinthemanorarelicensedforcivilceremoniesandmarriages, includingtheJapanese pagoda in the secret garden. Call to arrange a look around and discover your dream wedding at Donnington Grove... Discover weddings AT DONNINGTON GROVE The Emerald All inclusive package • Arrival drink of red, white or sparkling wine • Set 3 course meal • Glass of sparkling wine with the speeches • Half a bottle of house wine per person • Evening room hire with set finger buffet and resident disco • Complimentary suite for the bride and groom on the wedding night. £120 per person Available November to March The Diamond All inclusive package • Arrival drink of Pimms or champagne • Canapés on arrival • Set 3 course meal • Glass of champagne with the speeches • Half a bottle of house wine per person • Evening room hire with buffet or hog roast and resident disco • Complimentary suite for the bride and groom on the wedding night and their first anniversary. £140 per person Available April to October Tel: 01635 581000 Email: weddings@donnington-grove.com Grove Road, Newbury RG14 2LA www.donnington-grove.com Great Missenden | Bucks | HP16 0BD Your Wedding Memorable weddings happen at Missenden Abbey Set amidst 10 acres of picturesque grounds, this 12th Century medieval abbey offers the perfect setting for your magical day. For more information or to arrange a showround, call us on 01494 866811 or email weddings@missendenabbey.ltd.uk Licensed for weddings and civil partnerships Complimentary honeymoon suite 56 bedrooms available for guests to hire Marquee options available Dry hire for specialist weddings Space for live music or DJ www.missendenabbey.co.uk Did you know we hold 3 wedding fairs each year? Head to our website to find out more.
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