COOKED TO PERFECTION We’re having an intimate winter wedding and are looking for the perfect menu; what would you suggest? Firstly, many couples opting for an intimate wedding with smaller numbers may wish to invest more in the menu for something extra special. Arrival canapés are a great opener for any wedding ceremony, so I recommend a nice selection with at least three options. For example, cheddar and ham stuffed gougères, a French delicacy similar to savoury profiteroles, smoked salmon mousse crostinis and a vegetarian option for everyone to enjoy, such as our classic rosary goat’s cheese with beetroots and hazelnuts. Opt for something warming for the main event, such as braised short beef ribs for a winter wedding. Another favourite for any time of year is the herb-crusted saddle of lamb or, for those preferring a fish dish, you can’t beat turbot with my caviar and chive beurre blanc – it’s a crowd-pleaser! Regarding dessert, chocolate is my favourite, from hot melt-in-the-middle Valrhona chocolate fondant to a chocolate discovery-tasting dish we have served on several occasions. Crème brûlée served with madeleines or salted caramel tart is something we have recently created, especially for a client’s request, and it’s proving very popular this season. Whatever your preferences, whether classic and traditional or modern ‘haute gastronomy,’ we specialise in smaller, intimate weddings and can create the perfect menu while catering to any special dietary requirements for an exquisite meal to remember. Loic Gratadoux | Frenchman in the Kitchen http://frenchmaninthekitchen.co.uk MEMORABLE SETTINGS What should we keep in mind when looking around venues for our winter wedding? Consider your schedule and photography for winter weddings! Reflect on the key moments you want your photographer to seize and strategise when to create those moments, particularly since winter days offer less daylight. Consider having an early ceremony, as early as possible, to capture those daytime shots in natural light if that’s important to you. Then, as you move into the evening, try to make things as cosy as possible. As it’ll be cold outside, use spaces cleverly to maximise indoor and covered spaces. Winter months offer a plethora of food and drink options for your wedding, ensuring guests stay warm and well-fed. Seasonal delights like mulled cider or spiced plum cordial can add a festive touch to your drinks menu. While food trucks are popular for evening meals, a large grazing board with hot and cold food options can be a versatile and satisfying alternative, especially for guests seeking shelter from the cold. Hannah Preston | God’s House Tower | https://godshousetower.org.uk www.jasonwilliamsphotography.com MUST-VISIT DESTINATIONS We want to continue our winter wedding theme for our honeymoon. What destinations would you recommend? Whether you dream of snowy landscapes or a tropical paradise, a winter honeymoon offers unforgettable options. For a snowy escape, head to Switzerland’s Swiss Alps for luxury skiing in Zermatt or explore Iceland’s magical landscapes, including the Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights. Banff, Canada, provides romantic sleigh rides and snowy adventures in the Canadian Rockies, while Aspen, Colorado, offers upscale skiing, dining and cosy mountain lodges. For sun-soaked destinations, the Maldives is an idyllic retreat with overwater bungalows, turquoise waters and private beaches. Maui, Hawaii, is perfect for whale watching, scenic drives along the road to Hana and couples’ massages by the beach. If you’re seeking even more exotic beauty, Bora Bora in French Polynesia promises secluded luxury with crystal-clear lagoons and stunning overwater villas. For affordable luxury, Phuket and Krabi in Thailand are ideal for couples seeking beautiful beaches, limestone cliffs and high-end resorts. Thailand is also perfect for multi-destination honeymoons, allowing you to combine several romantic spots in one trip. Start in Bangkok to explore glittering temples and vibrant markets before heading to the tropical allure of Phuket or the serene beaches of Krabi. End your journey in the northern city of Chiang Mai, which is famous for its lush mountains, ancient temples and elephant sanctuaries. Whether you’re embracing winter’s charm or escaping to sundrenched shores, these romantic honeymoon destinations promise to make your first trip as a married couple unforgettable. Choose the destination that matches your style and start your marriage with a journey to remember. Tracy Goffin | Travel Counsellors - Tracy Goffin www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/tracy.goffin 78
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