FASHION, BEAUTY, GROOMS, HONEYMOONS, VENUES, NEWS AND MORE DEC 2022/JAN 2023 £3.55 Coming soon in 2023 The latest bridal trends Pretty as a picture www.yourgloswilts.wedding Love unveiled Local suppliers reveal all WINTER WHITE Magical snow-capped venues Spotlight on Santorini and Athens FROM THE HEART Seasonal real-life weddings GREECE IS THEWORD Romantic, timeless styled shoot
K I N G S H E A D - H O T E L . C O . U K 2 4 M A R K E T P L A C E , C I R E N C E S T E R , G L 7 2 N R The Kings Head hotel is a stunning boutique style wedding venue located in the heart of the historic town of Cirencester, the heart of the Cotswolds. From an intimate ceremony, lavish wedding reception or simply a meal with close family and friends our celebration spaces offer you the perfect backdrop for any occasion. • Licenced for civil ceremonies from 2 - 150 people • Wedding packages from just £70.00 per guest • Bespoke package options available, tailor-made to match your vision • Intimate ceremony and dining rooms • Wedding reception parties for up to 300 guests • 64 Stylish en-suite Bedrooms and one/two bedroom apartments available • Discounted accommodation rates • Exclusive use of hotel available To arrange a viewing and to discuss how we can create your perfect day call us on: 01285 700900 or email Daisy on weddings@kingshead-hotel.co.uk
REGULARS 6 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Claire 9 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions 13 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts are up for grabs 60 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer big-day advice 90 COMPETITION A luxury getaway awaits with the renowned hotel brand GuestHouse CONTENTS DECEMBER 2022/JANUARY 2023 On the cover Giovanna Ozorio Bastos from Capturing Senses Photography is the talent behind the lens of our cover of this issue that was photographed as part of a styled shoot at Manor by the Lake. All is revealed on page 43 and to book Capturing Senses Photography for your wedding, visit www.capturingsensesphotography.com 13 90 FEATURES 43 JE T'AIME Manor by the Lake, a romantic Victorian wedding venue in Gloucestershire, provided the perfect backdrop for this fine art French-inspired shoot with its whimsical Italian gardens and elegant, timeless interior 49 A WOODLAND WEDDING A Wiltshire-based country pub provided the seasonal setting for this styled shoot 52 MEMORIES MADE Local photographers reveal their favourite wedding snaps 55 SOMETHING NEW The best that Glos and Wilts has to offer 62 WALKING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND Our guide to creating the ultimate seasonal celebration VENUES 15 ‘TIS THE SEASON Magical snow-capped venues 21 SPOTLIGHT ON...THE COTSWOLDS We reveal where to wed 3
GROOMS 79 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 80 WINTER LUXE The latest seasonal must-haves for the groom-to-be HONEYMOONS 82 HONEYMOON NEWS The newest openings and honeymoon destinations 86 IN LOVE WITH THE LAKES A myriad of delights lie in wait in The Lake District for UK honeymooners 88 PURE LUXURY Discover The Belfry Hotel & Resorts in Sutton Coldfield 94 GREECE IS THE WORD Summer in Santorini and Athens REAL WEDDINGS 24 SUMMER LOVIN’ Paris and Elijah celebrated at Gloucestershire venue De Vere Tortworth Court which was decorated with a grey and white theme 31 LOOKING BACK Take inspiration from these real wedding couples that we have featured this past year 36 RETRO VIBES Donna and Richard's Wiltshire wedding enjoyed a retro disco theme in pink and burgundy shades. 65 74 64 FASHION & BEAUTY 64 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal fashion news buys and launches 65 WHAT’S TRENDING? This is what brides-to-be will be wearing in 2023 73 SHINE LIKE A DIAMOND Dazzle this festive season in gold, pearls, charms and diamonds 74 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with the must-haves for the bride-to-be 76 SKIN FOOD Discover how to achieve that much-desired bridal glow the natural way, through a healthy diet of skin-loving foods 77 FASHION Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems 90 87 4
Get in touch with that venue that really made your heart sing but you thought might be beyond your budget. You might be surprised at some of the off peak packages out there. Suppliers are snapped up for the summer months but mid winter they're much more likely to be able to fit you in. This is the time to assemble your dream team with way less stress. Stuck for a theme? Winter has its very own style that will help pull everything together. Add a hint of Christmas with cracker favours, baubles and wreaths. Lean in to the green - the foliage is amazing and ivy is also a thrifty option to boot! Nothing brings you together like a hearty meal with friends in a cosy dining room, safe from the elements. See what your caterer can rustle up from local seasonal produce. Mulled wine for welcome drinks or toasts? Hot chocolate station for the little ones...who are we kidding - we all want some! Embrace the dark - sparklers for the photos, fireworks, or how about glow in the dark garden games? Fairy lights and a big stash of warm blankets will make the most of the outdoors too. The pandemic put a big pause on everything, but now things are back to normal we're ready for a big refresh of, well, everything! Take part in our Somerset Ceremonies survey online and help shape the future of our service - and your weddings. We want to know it all: what's important, what's not, what little extras would make your day, right down to the mood and style that would make you feel the happiest. Relaxed and intimate? Grand and formal? Fun and modern? We're listening. Find the survey here: https://bit.ly/3D6ljK6 Like our featured photos? Check out more from the shoot and get some great winter wedding inspiration in our blog. Massive thanks to The Barn At Cott Farm team and their trusty suppliers for sharing them with us. www.somersetweddingservice.org.uk/blog/ Say I Do In Somerset It's the quiet season for everyone in the industry now. After the rush of sunny summer ceremonies, everyone is pausing for breath and catching up on essential tasks. But for couples brave enough to opt for an off season do, you can take advantage of some major perks. Winter weddings can be magical and we have some top tips to make the most of the alternative wedding season. you're planning - so are we! It's A Winter Wedding Wonderland Photos by DHW Phtography The Barn at Cott Farm Styling by Apple & Bramble Events www.somersetweddingservice.org.uk See the whole shoot in our blog
Yes, it’s that magical time of the year once again! I don’t know about you but this year has passed by quickly for me, and luckily it has been a wonderful one. We’ve celebrated my mum and dad’s Golden Wedding Anniversary, we’re looking forward to welcoming our Australian relatives to the UK this Christmas and my brother and sister-in-law are having their first baby this December which is the best present ever! I also managed to take a couple of sun-drenched trips this year, including to Oia in Santorini where I stayed at the fabulous Villa Mellow, booked through The Greek Villas (https://thegreekvillas.com/destinations/santorini-villas/ oia/mellow) and to Athens where I was very spoilt in the rooftop 501 Milos Terrace Suite at boutique hotel xenodocheio Milos (https://xenodocheiomilos.com). Read all about these wonderful properties, perfect for honeymooners in my Greece is the word review on page 84. To celebrate the festive period, we’ve compiled a seasonal issue for you to enjoy. There’s everything from summery-themed real weddings and elegantly styled shoots for couples planning their nuptials next year to snow-capped venues perfect for winter weddings. Don’t miss the latest news, offers, fashion, beauty and honeymoon destinations plus there are handmade ideas for those planning a DIY wedding, and advice about big-day photography and videography. For those of you getting married soon then I wish you many congratulations and for those not taking the plunge until 2023, I’ll see you next issue. Happy Christmas! Claire x Claire Ridley, Editor Ho, ho, ho Manor by the Lake in Gloucestershire is one of my favourite wedding venues in the region and the stunning images by Capturing Senses Photography from our French Fancy shoot on page 43 promise to add a little something blue to your special day. One of my favourite European countries is Greece which I’ve been fortunate enough to visit many times. On this trip, I soaked up the warm sunshine in Santorini at Villa Mellow and admired the city views in Athens from the rooftop terrace at hotel xenodocheio Milos. Find out how you can book a dream honeymoon at both properties on page 84. One of the shoots selected exclusively for this issue photographed by Gem Hicks Photography showcases a wonderful woodland setting inspiring couples planning an outdoor wedding next year. See it in full on page 49. 6 ISSN 2399-4967 EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 Claire Ridley | Editor clairer@county.wedding Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | Deputy Managing Editor and Beauty Editor Melissa Cullen | Senior Editor, Grooms and Travel Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding Graphic Designers | Stephanie Hodder | Vicky O’Connor Artwork & Content Coordinator 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 Managers Ruth Swallow | 01376 538 568 ruth.swallow@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James Your Glos &Wilts 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 Glos &Wilts Wedding is published six times a year. @YourGlosWiltsWedding @CWM_YGWW @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at county.wedding and countyweddingevents.com cwe COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS
Thanks to the local award-winning, Gloucestershire-based Daylesford Organics for the delicious tea samples that they recently sent to me in time for the festive season – it’s easy to see why their products were awarded at the recent Tiptree World Bread Awards with Brook Food. Read all about it on page 55. Look how romantic the new Cotswolds-based retreat The Lakes by YOO look here, perfect for a honeymoon. I can’t wait to visit this property! Turn to page nine where all will be revealed. Berry colours are some of my favourite shades so I fell in lust with the finer details in this photo from Ambience Venue Styling. See more of their work on page 55. I’ve always been a fan of actress Sarah Jessica Parker, especially her Manolo Blahnikloving character Carrie Bradshaw so being the fashion editor across the County Wedding brand is my dream job! When I selected the accessories for our fashion section starting on page 64, I added them all to my Christmas wish list, especially this pale pink babydoll trimmed with marabou feathers from https://gildapearl.co.uk EDITOR’S LETTER 7 How elegant is the Orangery at De Vere Tortworth Court in Gloucestershire? Paris and Elijah chose this dream venue for their summer celebration photographed by Adam Bird Photography. Read all about it on page 24. Anyone who knows me well will tell you how much I love anything that glitters! So when the images from Etiquette Events’ third birthday celebrations landed in my inbox, photographed by the talented Clem Stevens Photography, I fell in love with the disco balls and neon! Turn to page 55 to see more. Wow! I love black and white photography so compiling the winter and Christmas-themed photography feature for this issue was so enjoyable! I’m a big fan of the talented Gloucestershire-based photographer Daniella Marinos who captured these beautiful images. More is revealed on page 52.
Badminton Estate lies in the heart of South Gloucestershire and is home to the Duke and Duchess of Beaufort. Steeped in history and tradition it makes for an idyllic English countryside wedding venue. For outdoor marquee weddings, couples can hire Worcester Park with William Kent’s Grade I listed building, Worcester Lodge, as a backdrop. is beautiful, south-facing, historical building also has spectacular views from the balconies to Badminton House for the perfect wedding photo. WORCESTER LODGE WEDDING SHOWCASE 1st - 2nd April 2023 See the venue and meet our suppliers. To make enquiries please visit www.badmintonestate.com/weddings and request our Wedding Brochure. Traditional and contemporary designs and techniques Our team will guide you through every stage of your vision, from initial concept to final delivery of your beautiful wedding stationery. Contact us to find out how we can help: 01453 843571 info@cotswoldletterpress.co.uk www.cotswoldletterpress.co.uk Fine wedding stationers LETTERPRESS GOLD FOILING EMBOSSING THERMOGRAPHY
The latest news from around both counties THE LAKES BY YOO IN LECHLADE, GLOUCESTERSHIRE OPENS Nine waterside cabins and 18 apartments debuted this summer on the 850-acre estate at The Lakes by YOO in the Cotswolds, located outside the small town of Lechlade. The OMNI Wellness Retreats has also launched at the property, during which guests can relax and recharge in beautiful surroundings. Retreats include outdoor activities such as lake sailing, paddle boarding, rock climbing and trapezing, all of which allow guests to be at one with nature. OMNI will also offer at least two fitness classes per day with expert trainers ranging from Strength & Conditioning to Pilates and Barre, alongside delicious Michelin-starred dining. The Lakes by YOO are also popular for those in pursuit of wild swimming. The freshwater lakes are surprisingly at their warmest in the early autumn when they’ve been heating up all summer. Guests can experience an entirely new way of exploring the outdoors from the water or perfect their dive from the floating jetties. To book, visit www.thelakesbyyoo.com/whats-on/omni-wellness-retreat PAXTON & WHITFIELD CELEBRATE 225 YEARS WITH CHRISTMAS CHEESE VARIETIES 2022 marks Paxton & Whitfield’s 225th birthday and to celebrate, they have launched a collection of Christmas treats. Dan Bliss, the cheese buyer for Paxton & Whitfield, said: “Our cheeseboard selection for Christmas 2022 celebrates 225 years of Paxton & Whitfield. It features three of the most iconic cheeses from our heritage and two of our most recent innovations that have been developed at our new cheese maturation facility. These cheeses not only help to celebrate and tell our story, but they taste incredible too, either as a collection on the festive cheeseboard or as individual cheeses.” Still shopping for that perfect festive gift? Paxton & Whitfield has a treat for all budgets in its 2022 Christmas hamper collection. These thoughtful gifts feature the finest artisan cheese, expertly paired with crackers, accompaniments and some with wines, to create collections of luxuriously festive fayre. Dan Bliss explains: “Our Christmas 2022 gift collections compile the finest cheeses and paired accompaniments for a delicious unwrapping experience. As the company celebrates its 225th birthday, we have given a nod to the past with our Georgian-inspired photography styling and gifts such as our ‘Historic Gourmet Feast Box’ and ‘Cheese for Honey’ collections. We also look forward to the future with items such as a sustainability-focused ‘Planting Trees and Eating Cheese – Edible Christmas Card’ and innovative new artisan elements such as the allnew British Cheese ‘Cullum’ and new hand-baked Paxton & Whitfield Sourdough Crispbreads.” All of the hampers feature reusable ice packs and 100% sheep’s wool insulation for a chilled delivery and a free Paxton & Whitfield gift card; printed with the customer’s personal message. As the UK’s oldest cheesemonger, Paxton & Whitfield not only sources the finest in artisan cheese, but its cheese experts also source and sell the ideal accompaniments and cheese homewares for customers to get the most out of their cheese experience. From hand-baked biscuits to handprepared chutneys and even cheese knives, cheese boards and other homewares to serve the cheese. The original cheese subscription - Paxton & Whitfield launched its Cheese Club in the 1980s and the club is still going strong today with many long-standing, loyal members. Paxton’s Cheese Club has been upgraded for Christmas 2022 and now includes four specially selected artisan varieties, together with printed tasting notes included in the parcel and a box of Paxton & Whitfield Artisan Biscuits for Cheese. Each monthly cheese club delivery is carefully hand-cut, wrapped and packed by Paxton’s cheesemongers into a Paxton & Whitfield branded transit box – insulated with compostable and biodegradable sheep’s wool insulation and chilled with fully recyclable and re-usable ice packs. Dan Bliss comments: “Paxton’s Cheese Club is designed as an exploration of artisan cheese. We enjoy selecting the cheeses each month and aim never to repeat a cheese within 24 months. Our members can experience a wide variety of cheese that they would only be able to find in specialist cheesemongers - delivered to their door. Cheese Club members often get the first taste of brand-new cheeses and sometimes receive limited-edition batches that cheesemakers make just for the club. The new and improved factsheets in the parcel add to the experience.” To shop, visit www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk COTSWOLDS DISTILLERY LAUNCHES HEARTS & CRAFTS RUM CASK SINGLE MALT WHISKY The limited-edition Rum Cask Single Malt Whisky is the third expression in Cotswolds Distillery’s Hearts & Crafts collection. This yearly limited-edition series celebrates the Arts & Crafts movement which flourished in the Cotswolds and stood for the importance of traditional craftsmanship - the same values upon which the rural distillery was built. This limited-release has been aged in rejuvenated French oak ex-red wine casks seasoned with fine Caribbean rum, resulting in a well-balanced single malt with notes of soft brown sugar and ripe pears. All bottles come with a limited-edition William Morris design presentation tube. RRP: £74.95 for 70cl. ABV: 55.6%. Available from www.cotswoldsdistillery.com NEWS Nearlywed LOCAL NEWS 9
LUXURY FAMILY HOTELS HAS LAUNCHED THEIR WAGGY TAILS TEA TIME AND A LA BARK MENU Luxury Family Hotels are pleased to announce the launch of their new Waggy Tails Tea Time and A La Bark menu. Whether couples and families are heading to the coast of Cornwall or setting off for a cosy getaway in the Wiltshire countryside, Luxury Family Hotels encourage their guests to bring their furry friends along with them. More now than ever, there is no excuse to leave them behind with the collection’s newly launched Waggy Tails Tea Time and posh-pooch A La Bark menu! Served in each of the five Luxury Family Hotel lounges, or outside during the warmer months, the Waggy Tails Tea Time is a real feast. Start healthy with paw-dit-ites of crunchy carrots, apples, and cheese followed by lick-a-licious liver cake, pawnut butter biscuits and canine carrot cake with pawsome frosting. This is washed down with a thirst-quenching bowl of H20 and a puppacino! For the pooches whose parents keep an eye on their waistline, Luxury Family Hotels has also launched their A La Bark menu. Choose from a barkingly good beef supper or a waggingly delicious chicken dinner comprising of slow-cooked chicken in doggy gravy with crushed potatoes and vegetables. For something sweet, finish with a homemade peanut butter bone-shaped biscuit or frosty paws ice cream. Also available is a beer for dogs which is non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, and packed with vitamins and minerals. The A La Bark menu has been carefully curated with a doggy’s taste buds in mind, but also their health. All dishes are homemade using ingredients from the hotel’s kitchen*. Dogs like to dress up smart for dinner, which is why Luxury Family Hotels have prizes up for grabs for the best-dressed doggies! Turn up for tea looking dapper, and share a social post using #WaggyTailsAtLFH and be in with a chance of winning a paw-fect prize! Each of the five Luxury Family Hotels in the UK lends itself perfectly to family getaways which include the furry kind. With huge grounds for adventures and exploring and many beautiful walks and trails on each of the hotel’s doorsteps, dogs will want for nothing. Hounds will love walking in the rolling hill countryside of the Cotswolds when staying at Woolley Grange. Luxury Family Hotels has something for everyone and every breed. *except the frosty paws ice cream which is sourced from a reputable supplier Waggy Tails Tea Time is served for £15 per pooch all year round at all five Luxury Family Hotels and includes all the treats listed above. Dishes from the A La Bark menu vary from £2 to £5. To book, visit www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk FOREVER BOUQUET FINE ART What? Why not commission an original oil painting of your wedding bouquet or flowers? The owner of Forever Bouquet Fine Art, Caroline Evans MA, has recently completed this wintery painting that will be on display at occasion wear boutique Silks of Cheltenham in the spring that specialises in big-day outfits for mothers. Caroline and the team at the boutique will be running a joint promotion from 1st February 2023 until 30th April 2023 where customers have the chance of winning a bespoke bouquet painting. Where? Cheltenham Shop: 07929 757 028, www.foreverbouquet.co.uk www.silksofcheltenham.co.uk EDITOR LOVES Broadway-based Little Soap Company has launched the multi-awardwinning Eco Warrior collection of plastic-free, vegan and sustainable bar soaps, designed to replace their plastic counterparts. Packed with sustainably sourced, nourishing ingredients, and each with its own unique pure essential oil blend, these new-gen soap bars are kind to skin, hair and the planet. Simply wrapped in a recyclable box, Eco Warrior helps to eliminate unnecessary single-use plastics from sinks, bathrooms and washbags. Because sustainability should be easy! Included in the collection is an SOS Hand & Body Bar, £4.50 and an Original Shampoo Bar, £5.50. To shop, visit www.littlesoapcompany.co.uk 10
MARQUEES FOR ALL OCCASIONS Based in the heart of the Cotswolds with over 20 years experience in providing marquees for customers in Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, parts of Warwickshire, West Oxfordshire and Wiltshire. Whether you are planning a wedding, a garden party, a festival or a sporting event, we are here to help. 07873 403589 | richard.hance@icloud.com WWW.ABCPAVILIONS.CO.UK Discover Your Perfect Day The Gables Hotel in south Gloucestershire is the perfect venue for your wedding celebration. All InclusiveWedding Package Includes a choice of welcome drink, a three-course wedding meal, half a bottle of wine, a drink for the toast, evening buffet, room hire, complimentary overnight stay for the couple and more! From £3,200 in 2023! Visit our website to find out more! Bristol Road, Falfield, South Gloucestershire GL12 8DL 01454 260502 | weddings@thegablesbristol.co.uk www.thegablesbristol.co.uk CALL LOUISE OUR WEDDING & EVENTS MANAGER ON 01242 862352 01242 862352 | EVENTS@THEGREENWAY.CO.UK THEGREENWAYHOTELANDSPA.COM Weddings Our 16th Century Elizabethan manor house offers a stunning and historic wedding venue in the Cotswolds. Surrounded by landscaped grounds and rolling countryside, imagine a picture perfect backdrop to celebrate the most important day of your life with friends and family. Your day is special, which is why we make it our policy to only host one wedding a day. Plus, with our Elan Spa, brides-to-be can relax the night before with a range of soothing treatments. GREENWAY HOTEL AND SPA THE
www. fonthill .co.uk three wedding venues, one country estate lake | fields | woods FONTHILL ESTATE Bake Barn | Quarry Wood | Deer Park Barn
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER ONLINE AT WWW.YOURGLOSWILTS.WEDDING LITTLE DETAILS The Ambience Venue Styling Cheltenham franchise covering Cheltenham and the Cotswolds is owned by venue stylists Sarah Hall and Kate Page. This talented duo have dressed many weddings, building strong relationships with some of the most respected suppliers in the industry while also working with couples to create a bespoke celebration that best compliments the natural aesthetics of their chosen venue or location. Each style journey is creative, inspirational and unique and includes contemporary, authentic and elegant venue dressing, floristry and a prop hire service offering statement party pieces to add the wow factor. Your Glos & Wilts Wedding has teamed up with Ambience Venue Styling Cheltenham to offer readers a 10% discount (deducted from the final quote) on any booking made by the end of February 2023 for weddings taking place from January 2023 to August 2023. The expiry date of this offer is 28th February 2023. Email cheltenham@ambiencevenuestyling.com or call Sarah on 07885 615 316 or Kate on 07765 371 780 quoting AMB10. www.ambiencevenuestyling.com www.facebook.com/ambiencevenuestylingcheltenham www.instagram.com/ambiencevenuestylingcheltenham Turn to page 59 to read more about what the talented team offer for weddings. Take advantage of these great giveaways STYLE STATEMENT On your wedding day, light up the room in these statement gold ear climber earrings which bedazzle with four intricately cut moonstone gems. The sparkling gemstones, in a staggered line, descend in size and sit in an 18k gold-plated setting. Every detail has been well thought out, from the size of the stones to the slight curve of the earrings, creating the perfect mesmerising bold earring for a bold woman. Founded by Ramona Gohil, an inspirational female entrepreneur passionate about her British Indian heritage and culture Rani & Co is not just any jewellery brand; its crafted unique pieces symbolise how powerful women can be. Check out www.raniandco.co.uk County Wedding Magazines’ readers have the chance to win a pair of Rani & Co Moonstone Climber Earrings worth £64.99! Freebies &OFFERS FREEBIES & OFFERS 13
A newly launched wedding and events venue in the heart of historic Salisbury. The Wardrobe is a secret hideaway located to the rear of the Rifleman’s Museum. It is situated in the tranquil setting of the cathedral close and the wonderful garden leads down to the banks of the river Avon. With the rolling countryside beyond, it is difficult to imagine a better location within the Salisbury city limits for any outdoor event, be it a wedding reception, celebration or garden party. The walled garden is totally enclosed and private covering over half an acre. It also has numerous specimen trees including one of the finest copper beach trees in Wiltshire. The walled garden can be privately hired for your wedding, party or event. A marquee will be positioned in the beautiful garden (your choice of style) and we can accommodate up to 150 guests. For smaller numbers a reduced sized marquee is available. The on-site caterer is the award-winning Vanilla Catering & Events. Vanilla’s key ethics are attention to customer service and the use of top quality local ingredients. These result in bright, modern food styles presented with attention to detail in an unfussy yet friendly manner. A bespoke menu is created for each client and a complimentary wedding planner is provided to run your special day. An interesting fact: did you knowwhy we are we called TheWardrobe? The original building on the site was constructed in 1254. It was rebuilt in the 15th century and was used to store the robes of the Bishop of Salisbury; hence it was known as the “Bishop’s Wardrobe” or “The Wardrobe”! THEWARDROBE 58 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2EX www.wardrobeweddings.co.uk | @wardrobeweddings www.vanillacatering.co.uk | 01489 589 275 | sally@vanillacatering.co.uk THE WARDROBE WALLED GARDEN WEDDINGS
‘Tis the season Check out these magical, snow-capped venues PARADE HOUSE, TROWBRIDGE, WILTSHIRE A prestigious and elegant Grade 1 listed Georgian mansion in the centre of this historic town, Parade House boasts an elegant symmetrical Bath stone façade featuring seven full-size sash windows on the first floor and an impressive carved central pediment. Parade House is approached via its gated front garden and sits in the centre of what Pevsner described as a “stretch of Palaces” along Fore Street. There are six off-street parking spaces to the front of the property available for unloading or carriages. The property boasts Georgian and Regency-era elegance with a selection of beautifully decorated fine rooms located on the ground floor. A sweeping original Georgian staircase sits below ornately carved covings and a full-size French crystal chandelier, leading to a magnificent, grand, light and airy ballroom situated on the first floor with four chandeliers, silk-curtained curtains and full-length sash windows stretching the entire width of the house. The historic basement vault houses a bar, dancefloor area and cinema room. All of the rooms are licensed for ceremonies with three principal rooms. The Directors Room, located on the ground floor, is a wood-panelled space with a marble fireplace, arched carving, ornate ceiling and antique furniture that’s licensed for 30 seated guests for ceremonies. The Drawing Room is an elegant pale blue and white suite that can seat up to 40 guests for ceremonies. It’s also located on the ground floor and is home to stunning period features including originally carved ceiling coving, a marble fireplace and exposed original floorboards. The Grand Ballroom is a spectacular room on the first floor, accessed via the original Georgian staircase, and featuring seven full-length sash windows with silk curtains, four chandeliers and a polished wood-effect floor. It’s licensed for up to 54 seated guests. All of these rooms can be used for receptions. Parade House is intended for exclusive use by wedding clients, so guests would have the entire use of the ground and first floors for up to 54 people. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 07973 402 855, https://paradehousetrowbridge.co.uk We love... that personal consultations and tastings can be arranged. *Due to its Grade 1 Listing, Parade House does not have a lift and is therefore not wheelchair friendly. No pets or pushchairs. THE QUEENS HOTEL CHELTENHAM Embrace tradition in both history and style this Christmas by celebrating at the iconic Queens Hotel Cheltenham. Step back in time to a bygone era of opulence and refinement in the Grade II listed building, whilst enjoying all the modern comforts of an exquisite boutique hotel. Festive Parties are taking place in The Regency Suite from £49.50 per adult throughout December. The Christmas Brunch & Bubbles menu is served from Thursday to Saturday throughout December, between 11 am and 3 pm. The Festive Afternoon Tea priced at £25.00 per person is also available from 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm throughout December. There’s a four-course Christmas Eve Dinner taking place, priced from £55.00 per adult and £22.50 per child (aged up to 12 years.) The five-course Christmas Day dining experience in Victoria’s is priced from £99.00 per person and £49.50 per child aged 6-12 years, and children aged 5 and under eat free. Finally, the Boxing Day Gala Dinner is a Black Tie event priced from £55.00 per person and £22.50 per child (up to age 12.) Overnight package stays from 24-27th December start from £395 per person per accommodation and meals. To find out more and to book, visit https://queenshotelcheltenham.co.uk Photography of Parade House courtesy of Parade House Enterprises Photography of Queens Hotel Cheltenham courtesy of www.bethcrockatt.com Festive fun 15 THEMED VENUES
BOWOOD HOTEL, SPA & GOLF RESORT, CALNE, WILTSHIRE This luxury countryside resort is surrounded by 2,000 acres of Capability Brown parkland home to local wildlife, an abundance of history and boasting far-flung views. Access to the resort is via the impressive Golden Gates, designed by Sir Charles Barry, chief architect of the Houses of Parliament. The outdoor wedding pavilion that hosts summer ceremonies is located on the large open terrace and enjoys panoramic views. At the far end of the resort is The Kerry Suite situated next to the old farmhouse that also offers a ceremony option for up to 160 guests plus an alternative for the wedding breakfast and can accommodate up to 250 guests for the evening reception. It’s filled with light and furnished in a contemporary style, suiting many wedding themes. It’s made up of three internal rooms; the Kerry, Wycombe and Clanmaurice. Each one can be used individually or combined to create one larger suite. There’s a private bar and lounge and an outdoor courtyard ideal for a drinks reception. Couples booking their wedding at Bowood can expect to receive complimentary food and wine tasting. There are 43 luxurious bedrooms available and discounted accommodation rates for friends and family. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01249 822 228, www.bowood.org We love... that the selection of wedding packages on offer includes special dates for last-minute rates plus a bespoke option where couples can design their dream day. Also included is: • Hire of the Kerry Suite for the wedding reception, from 7 am until 1 am • Use of the hotel’s grounds for photographs • Personal chauffeur and golf buggy for the photo session • An arrival drink per person – choose from Pimms, peach bellini or Bucks Fizz • A three-course wedding breakfast from the seasonal wedding breakfast menu including tea, coffee and truffles • Half a bottle of house wine per person • A glass of prosecco per person to toast • An evening finger buffet • White linen and napkins • A wooden dancefloor • A cake stand and knife • Complimentary pre-wedding menu and wine tasting for the happy couple • The Tower Suite complimentary on the wedding night • Preferential hotel rates, subject to availability *Based on a minimum of 40 guests, subject to availability, certain dates are excluded. THE GREENWAY HOTEL & SPA, CHELTENHAM, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This 16th-century Elizabethan manor house is home to 21 elegant bedrooms and suites set in eight acres of landscaped grounds enjoying views of the surrounding countryside. The luxurious hotel offers 3AA rosette seasonal cuisine in the Garden Room Restaurant and the indulgent Elan spa with its extensive list of treatments is a must-visit with bridal spa membership available. Weddings take place in a variety of suites including the intimate Austen Room for up to 20 guests; the Panel Room enjoying far-flung views for up to 35 loved ones and the Garden Room and Drawing Room for larger gatherings. There’s also The Hide nestled outside on the croquet lawn providing the perfect backdrop for an open-sky ceremony for up to 60 guests with the option of hiring a marquee for a larger party. Exclusive use can also be booked. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01242 862 352, www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com We love... the many photographic backdrops including the grand oak staircase, stone-framed fireplace and historic oak tree. www.thphotography.net 16
Mi l bury Morr i s Minor s Looking for vintage chic, glamour and style? The Morris Minor brings smiles at every turn, great photo opportunities, romantic and fun. Perfect for your English Country or City wedding in The Cotswolds, Bath, Bristol, Gloucestershire and North Somerset. Milbury Morris Minors is a family business, we are passionate about these beautiful vintage cars, who have been part of our family for many years. We offer a friendly, professional wedding service, sharing our love of these fun cars with you on your special day. www.milburymorrisminors.com www . c a p t u r e t h i s mom e n t . c o . u k k a t h r y n@c a p t u r e t h i s mom e n t . c o . u k | 0 7 8 1 6 4 7 7 2 4 3 C o l o u r f u l , n a t u r a l p h o t o g r a p h y f o r y o u r w e d d i n g Transforming Vintage For The Style Led Bride Original Vintage Wedding Dresses Refit + Redesign + Bespoke Embroidery & Embellishment Services Visit Sophie, Head Designer & Founder of A Lover ’s Thread for a virtual or in person appointment at her Hitchin, Hertfordshire Home Bridal Studio Get social with ALT instagram.com/aloversthread Enquire, book or buy www.aloversthread.com
KINGS HEAD HOTEL, CIRENCESTER, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This boutique hotel is situated in the heart of Cirencester with plenty to see and do just a short walk away. It’s perfectly positioned for visiting the pretty villages of the Cotswolds plus there’s the local farmer’s market that takes place in the square outside and the regular craft and antique events that are held in the adjacent Corn Hall. A tranquil hideaway, the property boasts a stunning roof-top terrace and a stylish courtyard. It’s home to 64 individually styled bedrooms, 12 apartments, a vaulted spa plus various dining options including an elegant lounge, two fantastic restaurants as well as a deli and wine cellar featuring the best local produce from around the Cotswolds. The picturesque event spaces include The Assembly Room, a distinctly impressive space with a host of original architectural features including high ceilings, statement chandeliers and a wooden floor. Featuring a private bar, mezzanine area and roof-top terrace that’s perfect for a drinks reception, it holds up to 180 guests for the ceremony and 150 for the wedding breakfast. Other options for both include The Vaulted Cellar which hosts up to 150 people for the ceremony and 100 for the wedding breakfast. With its arched walls, ceiling and exposed brickwork, this unique space has the feel of an Italian wine cellar complete with its private bar. The Panel Room is the ideal choice for an intimate ceremony of up to 33 people and 30 for the wedding breakfast and boasts sophisticated decor, an exposed fireplace and original wood panelling. The Wine Cellar is also a cosy spot for up to 20 loved ones for the ceremony and 18 for the wedding breakfast. It features a wow-factor glass-walled wine display and bespoke dining table adding an air of sophistication. Those wanting a quiet and intimate ceremony space for up to 22 people can use the Library complete with a bookcase wall adjourned with antiques. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01285 700 900, www.kingshead-hotel.co.uk We love... that for couples getting married at the hotel, there’s a complimentary menu tasting before the big day. 18
FONTHILL ESTATE, FONTHILL BISHOP, WILTSHIRE Bake Barn is a converted hay store housed in its own walled courtyard with ancient walls from which views of the surrounding hillside and farmland can be enjoyed. To one side of the courtyard, the Loggia provides shelter from the elements and has overhead heaters for colder days and this courtyard can easily fit a marquee to one side with enough room left to enjoy the great outdoors. The interior boasts an impressive vaulted ceiling and large glass doors filling the space with natural daylight. The archery windows look romantic lit with candles at dusk and the large open fireplace with its tall mantlepiece makes this barn the perfect pick for a winter wedding. Since the relaxation of the law, couples can now host the ceremony outside in any area of the grounds. The courtyard can seat up to 300 guests while the Loggia can seat an intimate 30 loved ones. Inside, the Main Hall can hold up to 100 people for the ceremony and upstairs above the main hall, the Beater’s Loft is a light and airy industrial-style space seating up to 80 guests. This space is ideal for those seeking something a little more contemporary for the evening reception - it makes a great gin or cocktail bar! The wedding breakfast and reception can take place anywhere within the venue. Live music can be enjoyed in the courtyard with a bar set up in the Loggia. Dinner under the stars is an option, or a marquee can provide space for up to 160 guests. For a more formal dining experience, the barn seats up to 120 loved ones. This is also the ideal spot for late-night dancing with a band or DJ set up at one end of the room. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01747 820 246, www.fonthill.co.uk We love... that with no neighbours nearby, there are no curfews and noise restrictions THE BRADLEY HARE, MAIDEN BRADLEY, WILTSHIRE Enjoy a winter minimoon cosy country inn that recently opened in June 2021. It’s located on the Duke of Somerset’s Estate in the beautiful village of Maiden Bradley and is home to twelve sumptuous bedrooms. Guests will experience a stylish yet cosy stay in the cool yet authentic interiors, overseen by James Thurstan Waterworth, ex-European Design Director for Soho House. Each bedroom is unique with 18th and 19th-century antique furniture and distinctive fabrics repurposed and used for the headboards. All of the rooms offer home-from-home comforts, some with vast elegant freestanding baths and all with sumptuous beds and linens. Candlelit dinners can be enjoyed at the inn which offers delicious dishes on the menu using the best local and seasonal produce. Couples can enjoy romantic winter walks around the estate or even the splendid and romantic 18th-century world-famous Stourhead gardens. There’s also The Potting Shed, an aecluded boutique beauty studio hidden within the grounds of Bradley Park. Once an humble gardener’s workshop, The Potting Shed has been transformed into a space to rejuvenate the body and mind. It’s a sanctuary of calm and tranquillity and is the perfect place for guests to retreat, unwind and enjoy a full range of luxury beauty and holistic treatments. The Bradley Hare is also offering a fantastic Christmas menu. Guests can expect delicious turkey crown, stuffing, goose fat potatoes, carrots, parsnips, sprouts, bacon and chestnuts and Christmas pudding or apple crumble for dessert. Midweek rates start from £135 per room per night including breakfast. For more information and to book, visit www.thebradleyhare.co.uk Photography of The Bradley Hare courtesy of www.martinmorrell.com THEMED VENUES 19
Romantic wedding venues across the UK. View all our destinations at devere.com/weddings WATERPARK.WEDDINGS@DEVERE.COM +44 (0)1285 864000 DEVERE.COM/DEVERECOTSWOLDWATERPARK Our seven unique wedding spaces are fully licensed for civil ceremonies with a choice of suites for both grand and more intimate weddings. Dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows maximize the views of the lake making this a truly unique wedding venue. Delicious wedding breakfasts curated by our Executive Chef, luxury overnight accommodation, and the expertise of our experienced wedding coordinators; we'll ensure every detail is considered to create an unforgettable day. Situated on it's own private lake, De Vere Cotswold Water Park creates an idyllic backdrop for your special day We love a love story • Super Sensational Skid Courses • Muddy Marvellous 4x4 adventure • Adrenaline fuelled karting for adults 15+ STAG & HEN PARTIES at Castle Combe Circuit HenParties Hens and Stags go FREE! A fantastic day out to remember! ENQUI RE NOW ON 01249 783010 OR V I S I T www.drivetechltd.co.uk SkidControl 4x4 StagParties Karting @julietdraperhair & @juliet_draper_hair Weddings - Up-dos - Special Occasions Hair-styling - Makeup www.julietdraper.co.uk 07773 291487
THE COTSWOLDS Spotlight on... NEWWEDDING VENUE WATER’S EDGE AT EWEN OPENS Looking to book a wedding in 2023? Then don’t miss the opening of the Cotswolds’ hottest new wedding venue, Water’s Edge at Ewen launched by husband and wife team Steve and Emma Hewer. Commanding a stunning location in the heart of the pretty Cotswold village of Ewen, it’s a spectacular barn conversion with stylish interiors - think gallery kitchen, statement bar, crackling fireplaces and more. To find out more, visit www.watersedgeatewen.co.uk Read all about it in our next February/March issue! What ’s new? TEWKESBURY PARK UNVEILS ENCHANTING CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR PACKAGES Gather family and friends together for a magical Christmas and New Year spent in the rolling Cotswold countryside. Having completed a full refurbishment in recent years, family-owned Tewkesbury Park is an exquisite country house hotel, spa and award-winning golf course commanding one of the most stunning positions, with 360° breathtaking views of the Malvern Hills, the Cotswold Escarpment and the Severn Valley. Tewkesbury Park offers an array of luxurious facilities for everyone including your furry four-legged friends! The hotel makes for the perfect festive retreat filled with menus to feast on, suites to relax in and spa rooms for some much-needed pampering. Whether it’s set to be a quiet cosy Christmas for two, or a glamorous affair with all of the family, there will be a whole host of delights on offer. THREE-NIGHT CHRISTMAS RETREAT FROM 24TH - 27TH DECEMBER Celebrate in style with Tewkesbury Park’s indulgent three-night Christmas Retreat, arriving on Christmas eve. Enjoy a festive afternoon tea followed by a Christmas movie offering with popcorn and hot chocolate. Drinks and canapés will be served after, ahead of a three-course meal. Mandatory bucks fizz and an extended breakfast will be enjoyed on Christmas morning, before a traditional Xmas lunch. Christmas cake will be enjoyed in front of the king’s speech followed by a relaxed evening menu offering an array of local produce. The third and final day will encompass a leisurely morning with the chance to head out and explore the beautiful grounds of the hotel followed by an evening of music, cocktails and sumptuous dining. Prices start from £996 for a Just Right room based on two people sharing (advanced booking required.) Head chef Anuj Thakur and his talented team have created a sensational six-course tasting menu to be enjoyed this festive season. ‘Taste of Christmas’ will be served in the hotel’s Mint restaurant and boast dishes from hand-dived Scottish scallops, Aberdeen angus beef fillet and a winter vegetable Wellington to tantalising desserts of rose and raspberry macaron and lemon and lime posset. Guests also have the option to treat themselves to a lavish private dining experience in the Duke of Gloucester or Earl of Warwick dining rooms. Situated in the old manor house, their luxurious decor and sparkling chandeliers create a magical setting for festive celebrations. Priced at £78 per person with a matching wine flight for £42 per person. (Private dining room hire is charged separately and advanced booking is required.) Who doesn’t love a good party? What better way to welcome in the new year than with a six-course feast, with fabulous live music and fireworks? It’s all about unhurried indulgence this New Year, and once you’ve made yourself at home, take time to explore the grounds or have a dip in the pool, before warming up for New Year’s Eve and tucking into a three-course feast. For the main event itself, Tewkesbury Park will knock your socks off with a glass of fizz and canapés followed by a six-course feast complete with a live band and fireworks at the stroke of midnight - and don’t forget to pack your finest flapper frock or suit because it’s Great Gatsby themed. Late check-out and a relaxed extended breakfast will greet be served before check-out the next morning. Prices start from £775 for a Just Right room based on two people sharing and advanced booking is required. To find out more and to book, visit www.tewkesburypark.co.uk We reveal where to wed in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty LOCAL VENUES 21
ELMORE COURT WELCOMES A NEW GENERAL MANAGER AND WEDDING COORDINATOR Summer may have long since departed but the Elmore Court estate is still a hive of activity. Their treehouses have grown from an idea into something more structural now, with the finishing touches being put to the interiors with bespoke furniture – read more in our new-year issue! The exclusive-use wedding venue has just welcomed a new general manager called Luke Millikin who has plenty of experience and will help owner Anselm run it. There’s also a new wedding coordinator, Annie. On Sunday 19th March 2023, couples will have the opportunity to visit the venue for a wedding showcase. For more information, visit www.elmorecourt.com THE LYGON ARMS ON BROADWAY UNVEILS FESTIVE BREAKS The Lygon Arms located in the quintessential Cotswolds in the famous town of Broadway that borders Gloucestershire with Worcestershire is known for its roaring log fires and cosy corners in winter and is currently offering a home-from-home in which to soak up the nostalgia of Christmas. Enjoy a three-night festive break by arriving on Christmas Eve and departing on 27th December 2022 priced from £405 per night. Those wanting to book a new year minimoon in the region can enjoy countryside walks in the surrounding picturesque Broadway village up to Fish Hill and along The Cotswold Way. No wellies? No worries. There’s a fully stocked boot room at this 14th-century coaching inn. To find out more and to book, visit www.lygonarmshotel.co.uk 22
Sudeley Castle is a truly unique venue, with a rich history and more than 1,200 acres of grounds nestled in the heart of the Cotswold Hills. Romantic ruins, sweeping valleys and magnificent, award-winning gardens combine to create a beautiful and dramatic setting for your wedding. The picturesque castle, elegant gardens and romantic ruins provide a charming setting for your reception, whilst our Banqueting Hall and Pavilion provide spacious dining and celebration areas. For larger weddings, marquees are placed on North Lawn, which boasts majestic views of the Castle and overlooks the scenic carp pond. For more information, contact our Weddings and Events Team today. E: events@sudeley.org.uk T: 07825 136469 @sudeleycastleweddings www.sudeleycastle.co.uk/weddings Your perfect wedding venue in the Cotswolds Our 16th Century Elizabethan manor house offers a stunning and historic wedding venue in the Cotswolds. Surrounded by landscaped grounds and rolling countryside, imagine a picture perfect backdrop to celebrate the most important day of your life with friends and family. Your day is special, which is why we make it our policy to only host one wedding a day. Plus, with our Elan Spa, brides-to-be can relax the night before with a range of soothing treatments. Discover our new gem ‘The Hide’, nestled within our eight acres of beautiful, picturesque grounds and rolling countryside. Our new space aims to provide a stunning place in the privacy of our grounds, to create magical moments for you and your guests. 01242 862352 | THEGREENWAYHOTELANDSPA.COM | EVENTS@THEGREENWAY.CO.UK CONTACT LOUISE, WEDDING AND EVENTS MANAGER TODAY ON 01242 862352 19_07_2022 - TGH.indd 1 13/07/2022 14:48
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