WIN! A luxury getaway worth £1,500 VIBES OCT/NOV 2024 £3.55 Our beautiful region through the lenses of its local wedding photographers MADE with LOVE Autumn SOMERSET GLOS WILTS WEDDING & , Seasonal wedding tips Shop local, shop handmade SCENES Behind the
with Scarlett Rose Events & Julia Moore Floral Designs with Serenity Strings Duo with Country Wedding Flowers with Scarlett Rose Events & The Willow Blossom Florist Find us at Charlton House, Somerset, BA4 4PP 01749 342 008 | enquiries@montigoresorts-somerset.com Have your cake and eat it. At Charlton House you can have all the colour of a bespoke wedding with the peace of mind a cohesive pricing structure provides. Reach out today for more on our art-curated wedding styling packages. Charlton House
REGULARS 7 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Kelly 8 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the region 11 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs 49 HOT TOPIC: AUTUMN VIBES Local experts offer stellar advice on planning and autumnal wedding 81 COMPETITION Win a one-night luxury getaway worth £1,000 CONTENTS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2024 VENUES 12 SPOTLIGHT ON... North Wiltshire 17 LOCAL LOVELIES We round up some of the region’s dreamiest venues On the cover This issue’s cover is sponsored by American Museum & Gardens, near Claverton, just outside Bath (https://americanmuseum.org). Captured by Kerry Bartlett (www.kerrybartlett.co.uk), it shows couple John Ho Shun Yuen and Yushi Wang celebrating their big day in the Museum’s gorgeous gardens. 45 12 FEATURES 40 BEHIND THE SCENES Our beautiful region through the lenses of its local wedding photographers 45 MADE WITH LOVE Shop local. Shop handmade 52 DREAM THEMES Our guide to inspiring wedding themes 3
REAL WEDDINGS 22 A DREAM OF A DAY Emily and Chris fell in love with local venue Berwick Lodge and can’t praise its team highly enough 29 FALLING IN LOVE The autumn is a season that means a lot to Laura and Joe, so they chose it as their wedding theme 35 APPLE OF MY EYE Elsie and Lily tied the knot at Sheppy’s Cider Farm in May 2024 HONEYMOONS 74 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 76 A MATCH MADE IN SWITZERLAND Whether you’re a culture vulture, explorer or enthusiastic foodie, a dual-city Switzerland honeymoon has much to offer 78 HEAVEN IS... HALKIDIKI Experience the beautiful and stylish five-star Ajul Luxury Hotel & Spa Resort in Halkidiki 80 A ROMANTIC ESCAPE We check out the Grove of Narberth in Pembrokeshire, Wales to see what makes this retreat the perfect honeymoon destination FASHION & BEAUTY 54 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 55 MODEL LOOKS These whimsical bridal dresses are what fairytales are made of 60 AISLE DO Make waves with these bridal hair hero buys 61 STANDOUT SLEEVES Make a statement in a wow-factor wedding dress with long, short or off-the-shoulder sleeves 69 BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems 70 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with the latest must-haves 72 HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD We caught up with hair stylist to the stars Andrew Fitzsimons to find out about his haircare range and bag some tips 73 WEDDING WELLNESS These new products will help you feel your best in the run up to the big day 22 40 76 49 redmaplephotography.com www.jwarrphotography.co.uk 8 65 GROOMS 64 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 65 SCENT APPEAL Tom Hardy talks about being an ambassador for Jo Malone London’s Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense 66 FALL IN LOVE The latest seasonal must-haves for the groom-to-be Image courtesy of The Queens Hotel www.katierogersphotography.com 4
Nestled in the heart of one of the UK’s most romantic regions, Ingleside House is a stunning Grade II listed building that provides the perfect backdrop for your special day. From intimate occasions through to extravagant exclusive events, our team will work with you to turn your dream wedding into a reality. Start your incredible story at Ingleside House. www.inglesidehouse.co.uk 5 Beeches Road, Cirencester, Gl7 1BN • + 44 (0)1285 648230 • info@inglesidehouse.co.uk @inglesideciren
We have always had a passion for weddings and planning weddings. The look on the couples faces when they have the wedding of their dreams is priceless and helping them to reach their vision is very rewarding for us. We enjoy getting to know you and finding out your likes and dislikes so we can help you to have the special day you deserve. We can help you with full planning or managing the day only. We offer a free, no obligation initial consultation so we can get to know each other and see what we can plan together. WWW.WEDDINGREGENCY.CO.UK 07517127703 | weddingregency@consultant.com Instagram @wedding_regency | Facebook @weddingregency1 Exclusive use hire available for 1-3 days Intimate micro & elopement weddings Bespoke packages and a range of prices Guest capacity - 100 day & 150 evening Great North Bristol location off the M4/M5 14 luxury 5* boutique bedrooms In-house catering - 2 Rosette restaurant On the outskirts of Bristol, set in the peaceful countryside, is Berwick Lodge. Aproudly independent boutique hotel and wedding venue. A hidden secret just waiting to be discovered... Charming 1890 Victorian manor house 18 acres of beautiful gardens & woodlands Striking original features Romantic photo opportunities Licensed for indoor & outdoor ceremonies Unrivalled support - a dedicated wedding coordinator, wedding host and waiting team. 0117 450 7605 | weddings@berwicklodge.co.uk | www.berwicklodge.co.uk Image credit: Hotwells Wedding Photography & Red Maple Photography
Is anyone else still buzzing from the Olympics and Paralympics? I don’t know about you, but my social life was completely on hold while it was on! I can’t believe we have to wait another four years before it rolls around again. As someone whose idea of exercise is getting off the sofa and grabbing a snack, I always admire everyone who takes part. When the time came to write to you for this issue, the Olympic moto got me thinking: faster, higher, stronger – together. It’s that final word that always causes my heart to soar. It’s that one word that truly speaks to what the Olympics is all about. It’s bringing the world together in friendship and camaraderie, and does the same within the teams of each individual competing country. Speaking of togetherness, have you noticed anything different about us? That’s right, Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding and Your Glos & Wilts Wedding have merged to bring you even more of our fabulous corner of the South West! So, my lovely Bristol and Somerset readers, please join me in offering the couples and suppliers of Glos and Wilts a huge and hearty welcome! When planning this, the first issue of Your Somerset, Glos & Wilts Wedding, the notion of togetherness came to me again. It defines a marriage, doesn’t it? You are, after all, in it together and that’s why you say “I do” and make those vows. You form a forever partnership to navigate life together. I believe that’s the way forward for all of us. In the words of the popular wedding bible reading from 1 Corinthians 13:4 – “Love is patient, love is kind.” Kelly Andrews, editor We’re all in this together Kelly x ISSN 1755-4756 Your Somerset, Glos & Wilts Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by Ellis Media and Events Ltd. 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 Somerset, Glos & Wilts Wedding is published six times a year. www.zararowlandsphotography.co.uk @CountyWeddingMagazines @CountyWeddings @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding EDITORIAL Deputy Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | 01376 535 611 kelly.andrews@county.wedding 22 PEARLS OF ROMANCE I’m in love with Emily’s pearl drop earrings from Accessorize. Shall be popping in next time I’m in town! 40 HISTORY COMES TO LIFE The Roman Baths in Bath are already tremendously atmospheric, but shot in black and white, this image seems to bring their history to life. I adore that reflection in the still waters. ADVERTISING Account Manager Jack Wooding | 01376 538 496 jack.wooding@county.wedding 29 LOVE IN BLACK AND WHITE I don’t very often use black and white images, but no doubt, they do have a lot to offer. There’s a heightened romance and atmosphere about them don’t you think? So, I thought I’d share some of my favourites submitted for this issue. https://redmaplephotography.com 81 WIN! A luxury getaway worth £1,000 www.salakophotography.co.uk EDITOR’S LETTER 7
NEWS Nearlywed Catch up on the latest from around the region ALL WRAPPED UP Amid the joyful chaos of peak wedding season, wedding guests seek to find the perfect gift for you, the happy couple. The ideal wedding gift idea should reflect your unique style, personal preferences, and shared joyful experiences. Finding the perfect present is no easy feat! With this in mind, wedding gift-giving experts at Graham and Green have surveyed 1,500 engaged and married couples to uncover the most desired wedding gifts from their home and interiors. Perhaps it will inspire you when putting your own gift list together. Bedding is the top choice. The survey revealed that bedding is the most desired wedding gift among newlyweds, with one in six of those surveyed agreeing bedspreads and quilts were their ideal gift. Meanwhile, the kitchen is the heart of a happy couple’s home. The research found that kitchenware was the second most desired wedding gift, with one in seven couples agreeing it’s what they most hoped to open on their wedding day. Kitchenware was most favoured among 25-34 year olds who seem to prefer practicality over style when it comes to their wedding gifts. Crockery, such as plates and bowls are the third most desired wedding gift. The data also showed that men would prefer to receive this gift more than women, which is something that reigned true for most practical gifts. Prints and wall art were the preferred choice for seven per cent of the couples surveyed, ranking as the fourth most sought-after gift. These items hold a personal touch, as they should align with the recipient’s home décor or hold sentimental value. Check out www.grahamandgreen.co.uk for more inspiration. LAZY AFTERNOONS The garden at The Queens Hotel in Cheltenham has now reopened with a delicious new al fresco dining menu and an exciting programme of events including live music, prosecco on tap and bottomless afternoon tea. The garden provides an outdoor sanctuary in the heart of historic Cheltenham, it’s the perfect place for friends to meet over delicious food in the sunshine. The new al fresco menu serves a mix of nibbles, small plates, fresh salads, and burgers, with highlight dishes such as the Royal Burger or smoked salmon bao buns. The menu also includes a range of delectable small plates such as tomato arancini, mussel linguini, chicken skewers or baked feta filo, perfect for sharing. The quirky horsebox bar is stocked full of drinks from local Cotswolds and British suppliers. With wines from Woodchester Valley and Nyetimber sparkling English wine alongside beers from Hawkstone brewery, gin from Cotswolds Distillery and the hotel’s very own Delilah’s gin. The horsebox bar is also home to prosecco on tap, and guests can enjoy limitless prosecco from 4.30pm to 6.30pm every Monday to Friday at just £25 per person. Every Saturday, the garden will also welcome a local live music act from 3.30pm to 7pm. With a variety of genres, including classic, toe-tapping hits and favourite tunes enjoy the sounds from local artists while dining on new tapas dishes. Week round, guests can also enjoy a bottomless afternoon tea in the garden, with 90 minutes of unlimited top ups of chilled Drusian prosecco, freshly made sandwiches and sweet treats every day from 12pm to 4pm at just £45 per person. Find out more at https://queenshotelcheltenham.co.uk/dining/queens-garden 8 ANYONE FOR TEA? At The Manor House, set in the heart of Castle Coombe, guests can indulge in a decadent, homemade afternoon tea for two (or more), served on a tiered cake stand with a glamorous sense of tradition and occasion. Your afternoon tea is enjoyed in the Bybrook restaurant or one of the stunning lounges. This quintessentially English pastime, which dates back to the 19th century, features an essential selection of Shibui blends, single-estate teas, and infusions from India, China, and England to suit every taste. Savouries, typically in the form of sandwiches, are taken first, followed by warm scones accompanied by clotted cream and strawberry jam. The crowning glory of the experience is the array of divine pastries and cakes. Available all year round, afternoon tea is served here from 1pm to 4pm, for £45 per person. Find out more at www.exclusive.co.uk/the-manor-house
MINI-BREAK PAWFECTION We know how much you love your fur babies, so we thought it would interest you to to know that PoB Hotels, a distinguished collection of properties across the UK offer unparalleled elegance and historical charm for stays with fourlegged companions. Located within 20 acres of beautiful gardens, Homewood Hotel & Spa is a superb dog-friendly destination just outside Bath, Somerset. Offering privacy, serenity, and luxury, it’s the perfect retreat for travellers with furry friends. Upon arrival, dogs receive a Woof Box filled with Lily’s Kitchen food, treats, and a ball, along with dog beds and bowls. The hotel has a dog agility zone to keep pets active and entertained. Homewood also offers pet care services including dog-walking and dog-sitting, allowing guests to explore Bath while their pets are well cared for. Dogs receive regular breaks, meals, and mental stimulation. Grooming services are also provided, offering both full grooming and bath with blow-dry options. Additional services include blueberry facials and Emmi-pet tooth cleaning, with a pick-up and delivery service available for convenience. Likewise, Ellenborough Park, in the heart of the Cotswolds, boasts 14 dog-friendly rooms and four exclusive Pooch Bedrooms, each with its own spacious enclosed garden. Guests will find unparalleled access to the finest walks in the Cotswolds. Take advantage of the Pawfect Break package, featuring accommodation in one of the dog-friendly bedrooms. Your fur baby will also enjoy a cosy dog bed and delightful treats during their stay. In partnership with Sir Woofchester, an esteemed independent dog food company, a range of canine products is also provided, including dinners, treats, and drinks tailored to your loved one’s tastes. For those in need of extra pampering, the on-site Paw Spa offers a selection of grooming goodies, ensuring pets receive the utmost care and attention. Find out more at https://pobhotels.com FINE DINING IN BATH The Elder, located within Hotel Indigo Bath, has launched a seven-course set menu showcasing the best of British wild food. With the expertise and passion of restaurateur Mike Robinson and executive chef Liam Goldstone at the helm, The Elder has now elevated its outstanding offering to new heights with an exciting new chapter for the award-winning restaurant. The constantly changing menu is a celebration of seasonality, featuring ingredients sourced locally with a focus on sustainability. The Elder’s commitment to using wild, sustainable ingredients remains at the core of their ethos. Mike Robinson is incredibly passionate about the subject and owns an ethical venison company called Deer Box, which provides the restaurant with wild venison from estates within and hour of Bath. Fish is sourced from Cornwall’s Flying Fish, where only sustainable stocks are used and the selection changes daily. The Elder originally opened with the Grade I listed Georgian building in September 2020 and was previously situated on the ground floor. This summer, it moved upstairs to its new home and a second restaurant Brasserie Beau with 100 covers, opened in May 2024 on the ground floor. The cost per person for the seven-course set menu is £85, which is paired with a cocktail. Find out more at http://theelder.co.uk LOCAL NEWS 9 LOVE AND CARRIAGE Orchardleigh Estate has been named as the winner of the Best Wedding Transportation Service at the Wedding Services Awards 2024. The venue, near Frome, has received the accolade recognising the Estate’s dedication to providing unparalleled transport options that enhance the wedding experience for its couples and their guests. Featuring a Rolls Royce Cullinan, Bentley Continental GTC, vintage cars and even a Bell LongRanger helicopter, Orchardleigh Estate’s wedding transport service is renowned for its elegance and variety. Heather Vincent, who heads up the luxury wedding venue, expressed her delight at receiving the award: “At Orchardleigh, we believe every detail of a wedding should be extraordinary, and our transport service is no exception. Whether it’s a classic car or a helicopter ride over the estate, we strive to create unforgettable experiences for our couples. This award is a testament to our team’s dedication to excellence and our commitment to making every wedding at Orchardleigh truly special.” The Wedding Services Awards celebrate the best in the wedding industry, with winners selected based on their innovation, quality of service, and ability to exceed client expectations. Find out more at www.orchardleigh.net
Create your own love story, where history becomes the backdrop and The Bishop's Palace and its 14 acres of RHS partner gardens is the setting for your unique wedding reception. E: weddings@bishopspalace.org.uk W: www.bishopspalace.org.uk/venue-hire/weddings The Bishop's Palace and Gardens, Wells We limit the number of wedding receptions held each year in this historic place so that you feel as special as our beautiful venue. Our Weddings Manager would love to help you to bring your ideas to life. Prices from: £4,900 info@old-bridge.co.uk • old-bridge.co.uk • 01460 240855 Create Your Perfect Day • Licensed for weddings all year in the Great Hall or outside • Exclusive use of marquee and gardens from May to September • Ample adjacent level parking for guests • Freedom to arrange your food, drinks and entertainment • No corkage or VAT Your Party, Done Your Way • Ceremony room sits up to 75, unlimited numbers if outside • Marquee seats up to 200 people • Dance floor, tables and chairs lighting and heating included • Discreet equipped catering area and fully staffed bar provided • In between Yeovil and Taunton with easy access to the A303
ACCESSORISE AND SHINE Clare Lloyd has been making stunning jewellery and wedding headdresses for more than 15 years and specialises in designing and making bespoke heirloom bridal headpieces. This extremely talented lady crafts everything by hand using a mix of beautiful and luxurious materials from precious metals, semi-precious stones, pearls and crystals to bring to life one-of-akind, timeless pieces. “I’m very much inspired by the natural world and all things floral and botanical,” she tells us. “My signature style is detailed and intricate.” When shopping with Clare Lloyd Accessories, you can either choose from one of the gorgeous collection designs or work together with Clare to make your dream headdress design a reality. The bespoke process is an enjoyable one and can take place online or in person by making an appointment to visit the studio in Frome. We’ve partnered with Clare Lloyd Accessories this issue to offer Your Somerset, Glos & Wilts Wedding readers a 10% discount. To claim, head over to www.clarelloyd.co.uk and enter code ‘bridetobe’ at the checkout. Offer ends 30th November 2024. WIN A PAIR OF WATCHES WORTH £160 County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with renowned British watch brand Sekonda to offer readers the chance to win a stunning pair of watches, marking this special moment in time. The bride-to-be will win one of the bestselling Monica Sparkle Silver (RRP £79.99) watches, a stunning timepiece with a fully stone set bracelet and bezel featuring an impressive 460 crystals. For the groom-to-be, they’ll get their hands on the elegant Sekonda Armstrong Moon Phase (RRP £79.99) mens watch. With a round rose gold plated case, silver white dial and brown leather strap; the watch features a moon phase sub-dial which tracks the moon through a 29.5 day lunar cycle, printed moons and stars, along with a tachymeter, minute track, and day and date sub-dials. For same-sex couples Sekonda will provide two watches of the couple’s choice of either the Monica Sparkle Silver or Armstrong Moon Phase. Established in 1966, Sekonda offers high quality watches at affordable prices, without compromising on style. For more information about the full Sekonda collection visit www.sekonda.com Head over to www.yoursomersetgloswilts.wedding/giveaways to enter now! Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs Freebies & OFFERS https://emmapilkingtonweddings.co.uk FREEBIES & OFFERS 11
KIN HOUSE 01249 479 385 | https://kinhouse.co.uk Kin House is a lovingly restored Georgian manor house located in the heart of the charming Wiltshire countryside. On the edge of the pretty village of Kington Langley, this Grade II listed house is set within walled gardens and private woodland and has been painstakingly and sensitively restored to its former glory with interiors led by the British design studio Barlow & Barlow. Kin House looks to provide the ultimate hotel experience tailored exclusively to private events. It’s a great place to gather loved ones and be decadent on your big day. Within the House are 12 luxurious rooms furnished with all the extra touches you’d expect. Every room has its own bathroom with a rainforest shower and some bedrooms come with vast rolltop bathtubs overlooking the grounds. Whether your gathering is of two or 200 guests, there are a selection of spaces in which to tie the knot here at Kin House. Host your ceremony outside under the arbour by the sun-drenched walled garden. The space can accommodate 200 seated loved ones. The Hearth Room lies at the heart of the house, and boasts an original 18th-century fireplace. It’s a beautiful spot for civil ceremonies, and can be used as a reception space for larger parties with the Drawing Room and Fitz Bar. Here you can seat 85 or have 100 standing. The Garden House, centred by an original fig tree, is light filled and a dream for civil ceremonies, rehearsal dinners or recovery brunches. Its double-height doors open out onto the walled garden. Here you can host 200 seated or standing. The Drawing Room and Fitz Bar can join together for drinks receptions of up to 100 guests. The latter is named after Kington Langley’s original medieval alias, Langley Fitzurse, and serves a comprehensive drinks list including a signature burnt orange Negroni. An original Georgian portico leads to the terrace and lawns so your nearest and dearest can mingle outside on warm days. For larger weddings, the Hearth Room can also be used alongside them. Attached to the side of Kin House, in a separate wing, is Kilvert Hall with space for up to 200 guests to dine and dance until late. There’s even a stage for live music. The talented in-house team of chefs create menus and feasts fit for such an important day in your lives. Offering everything from whole joints of meat cooked over fire to abundant family fare or pizzas from the wood oven. The team will work with you to plan the ultimate spread. Whether you’d like to take over the manor house for a day, a weekend or more, the team have more than 10 years’ experience in event planning. The Dressing Room is yours for the morning and comes kitted out with hair-washing stations, styling tools and oversized mirrors. There’s also a barbers on the top floor that’s open for pre-party preparations. www.majatsolo.com Spotlight on... NORTH WILTSHIRE Tie the knot in a local hotspot https://martadweddings.com https://martadweddings.com 12
www.tucker-wilsonevents.com HARTHAM PARK ESTATE 01249 700 000 | www.harthamparkweddings.co.uk Hartham Park Estate is a beautiful 50-acre estate park and Georgian house dating bck to the 18th century set within the timeless beauty of the Cotswolds, just north of the Wiltshire town of Corsham. It’s the perfect setting for a quintessential English country wedding, easily accessible and close to the M4, with nearby Bath and Bristol providing direct transportation links to London and beyond. As a returning wedding venue, Hartham Park Estate has been offering 40 per cent off all weddings in 2024. There’s a wide choice of spots for your ceremony here. The Ceremonies Room can seat 75 loved ones and is an elegant space, thoughtfully designed for intimate gatherings and formal occasions. With soft lighting and tastefully decorated walls, it provides a serene ambience ideal for weddings. As well as hosting a dazzling wedding ceremony with 120 guests, The Ballroom also exudes an atmosphere of celebration for a reception. Its expansive space allows for flexible seating arrangements, accommodating both intimate dinners and grand features. The gleaming chandeliers cast a warm, inviting glow over the room, while the state-ofthe-art sound system ensures that music fills the air. The Grand Hall, which can seat the same number, stands at the heart of the venue, with its ceilings, majestic staircase and architectural details serving as an impressive backdrop for your gathering from welcoming your guests to the day’s more formal elements. For more intimate “I dos” The Library is a quiet sanctuary, filled with rich detail, towering bookshelves and the warm glow of chandeliers. This space offers a cosy atmosphere for 60 of your nearest and dearest. It also offers a wonderful ambience for an intimate and refined reception. Guests can enjoy a reception surrounded by timeless beauty that feels both cosy and luxurious. The soft lighting and comfortable seating invite conversations and connections, making it the ideal choice for weddings that prioritise elegance and warmth. CLEEVE HOUSE 01380 827 129 | https://cleeve-house.com Cleeve House stands as a historical manor house Wiltshire wedding venue, offering full exclusive use for those seeking an unforgettable setting for their big day. All the function rooms here have been tastefully designed and decorated to preserve the character and beauty of the house, while the bedrooms have been thoughtfully laid out to ensure guests can feel at home and cosy despite the grand, high ceilings. The venue sits in six-and-a-half acres of woodland and fields. The House has a terrace on two sides allowing guests to sit outside and enjoy the views out towards Salisbury and watch the cows grazing in the distance. There’s also a lot of space for children to play on the lawn and for additions such as marquees and bouncy castles to be added as you wish. The venue does offer an in-house marquee too, which is available for hire if required. Say “I do” in The Salisbury Room as 54 of your nearest and dearest look on. The space boasts plenty of natural light and lovely views. Alternatively, for more intimate vows, the Library can host 40 and is a classic wood-panelled room with a large, wooden fireplace and the feel of a Victorian drawing room. The Great Hall, as the name implies, is the largest space available. It can hold 90 of your loved ones with a Hogwarts ambience thanks to its high, vaulted ceiling, classic windows, large balcony and wood-panelled walls. Alternatively, you can hold your ceremony al fresco among the gardens on the steps leading up to the house’s terrace. You can welcome 100 guests here with the house as your backdrop. The venue can accommodate up to 80 loved ones for a wedding breakfast and up to 140 for the evening reception. 13 LOCAL VENUES
CRICKLADE & SPA HOTEL 01793 750 751 | www.crickladehotel.co.uk This exquisite country house was built at the turn of the last century. It has been tastefully restored and carefully extended marrying period features with modern touches. With 45 stylish and comfortable bedrooms, a luxury spa with indoor pool, sauna and steam room plus treatment rooms, a gym, and a beauty room, it’s perfect for wedding day preparations. The hotel is located at the bottom of a private drive and the grounds are home to a tennis court, an all-weather pétanque pitch and a large outside seating area with an elevated position for guests to enjoy beautiful views of the Wiltshire Downs. There are also stone steps leading down to the grounds providing a memorable big-day photo opportunity. Set within 33 acres of lush countryside, the Hotel is in an advanced programme of landscaping and planting 40,000 bulbs to enhance its picturesque location. This beautiful outdoor space can be used for lawn games and activities to entertain your guests. Ceremonies can be held outside in the Stone Folly or indoors in the grand ballroom suite that’s easy to style with different decorations. It has its own private bar and reception area with a maximum seated capacity of up to 120 people. The library is home to a stunning fireplace and is perfect for an intimate wedding celebration of up to 35 people seated. The wedding packages here include a free wedding tasting for the two of you six weeks before the big day and complimentary bedrooms for the night of the wedding (number dependent on package). BRAESIDE HOUSE 01380 722 637 | www.braeside-education.co.uk Located in the heart of Wiltshire, on the edge of Devizes, this is an ideal venue for a unique celebration. Here you’ll find more than four-and-ahalf acres of grounds and gardens with the manor-style house at their centre. The House has a homely, welcoming feel making it popular with its guests. DAUNTSEY PARK HOUSE 01249 721 777 | www.dauntseyparkhouse.co.uk A beautiful, private family home situated on the banks of the River Avon, Dauntsey Park offers elegant interiors and extensive grounds to create an exceptional and individual venue for wedding receptions in Wiltshire. The venue offers marquee or house receptions and ceremonies held in the neighbouring historical church of St James. WIDBROOK GRANGE 01225 864 750 | www.widbrookgrange.co.uk Widbrook Grange is an original Georgian model farm on the outskirts of Bradford on Avon. Your “I dos” can be exchanged in the surroundings of the rustic converted barn, or in the romantic gardens that surround the Georgian farmhouse. The venue can host an intimate elopement just for the two of you all the way up to grander affairs. STEAM 01793 466 613 | www.steam-museum.org.uk/venue-hire STEAM is housed in a beautifully restored Grade II railway building in the heart of the former Swindon railway works. Full of character and elegance, the venue offers a choice of locations within the Museum for wedding ceremonies and receptions among the famous exhibits, including the charismatic 1930s station platform and the magnificent Caerphilly Castle Hall. Also check out... 14
BAILBROOK HOUSE HOTEL BATH, SOMERSET Mansion House Package MANSION HOUSE Catering for up to 65 guests, this package suits smaller weddings perfectly. Choose to say your vows in either of our intimate lounges and follow the ceremony with a Champagne and canapés reception. For your wedding meal, take the Cloisters restaurant as your own before celebrating in the Conservatory Bar. 01225 855100 or 0845 072 7515 | bailbrookhouse@handpicked.co.uk | www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/bailbrookhouse EVELEIGH AVENUE, LONDON ROAD WEST, BATH, SOMERSET BA1 7JD
The Perfect Wedding Venue! Batch Country House, Lympsham, Nr. Weston-super-Mare, Somerset BS24 0EX | Tel: 01934 750371| Email: info@batchcountryhouse.co.uk www.batchcountryhouse.co.uk The Batch Country House specialises in weddings due to its beautiful location. The landscaped gardens offer the perfect backdrop to your photographs. www.hintonparkholidays.co.uk ◆ A Magni cent and Individually Designed Self Catered 13 En Suite Bedroom Property ◆ Licensed for Weddings all year, including the picturesque Outdoor Pagoda Space and Gardens and the Knott Barn is adjacent to the property, o ers a bright, large area with rustic charm, exposed beams, creating the perfect ambience for a romantic Wedding Suitable for seated Receptions as well as inside Cro view ◆ e option of a fully tted Commercial Kitchen available for hire within the same building ◆ Di erent Packages available with a choice of catering options suitable for small Weddings of between 30 and 60 guests. ◆ To arrange a Viewing and to discuss your requirements for the Wedding of your Dreams ◆ Please contact : charlotte@hintonparkholidays.co.uk CROFTVIEW ◆ Hinton Park Estate ◆ Hinton St George ◆ TA17 8TL A Luxurious and Stylish Holiday Property with Licensed Wedding Venue Set within the grounds of a 1200-acre Private Estate with Stunning Rural Views – a Photographers Dream
LOCAL LOVELIES To celebrate the collaboration between Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire to form our newest title, we decided to round up some of the finest venues from across the region whatever your vibe DE VERE COTSWOLD WATER PARK 01285 864 000 | www.devere.co.uk/cotswold-water-park-hotel Part of the De Vere collection of historical mansion house estates and distinctive contemporary hotels and event destinations, De Vere Cotswold Water Park is set among the honey-coloured stone buildings and rolling hills of the quintessential Cotswolds. It’s a hotel as spectacular as its natural surroundings, perched among the 152 lakes of the Cotswold Water Park. Cotswold stone, glass and wood are seamlessly integrated throughout the hotel’s design. Meanwhile, the lakeside apartments benefit from outside decking, which wraps around the entire hotel overlooking the lake. The Cotswold Water Park is a nature reserve in itself, so you’ll be surrounded by nature as you celebrate. Once inside this waterside property, you and your guests can experience light, airy spaces furnished in keeping with the natural surroundings. Located within the main hotel building are the most popular suites for wedding ceremonies and receptions, including The Whimbrel Marquee, The Kingfisher Suite, The Mallard Suite and The Drake Suite. Both The Whimbrel Marquee and The Kingfisher Suite offer direct access to the great outdoors and have recently been refurbished; the latter in neutral tones with Cotswold stone. Meanwhile, the Mallard Suite boasts a private balcony overlooking the lake. The hotel can host wedding ceremonies of up to 400 guests and receptions with up to 500 loved ones in the Whimbrel Marquee. The Brasserie Restaurant too has recently enjoyed a renovation with beautiful new décor and furniture in blue tones perfectly matching the lake views wonderfully complimented with gold accents. A menu tasting session is included in the wedding package along with accommodation for the newlyweds and a discounted rate for guests. De Vere Cotswold Water Park was revealed as the fourth most popular spa hotel in the Cotswolds. Inside the hotel is Spa 6, which is home to a gym, spa pool, aroma steam room and dry flotation bed. The popular Rasul Therapy experience is ideal for a pre-wedding pamper and sits perfectly alongside a host of other luxury spa therapies and beauty treatments. Waterside bliss 17 DREAM VENUES
NORTH CADBURY COURT 01963 441 238 | www.northcadburycourt.com North Cadbury Court is a luxurious Grade I listed 16th-century country house in Somerset. Across the estate, including the house and cottages, you can sleep up to 80 of your guests. This lovely English mansion is known for its focus on comfort and fun. What’s more, as well as historical bedrooms restored to five-star luxury, the house features a spa wing with pool and Jacuzzi, a secret underground casino, a disco and a memorable rooftop golf tee. Set in 1,500 privately-owned acres of gorgeous Somerset countryside North Cadbury Court boasts outstanding views of Cadbury Hillfort, thought to have been King Arthur’s Court of Camelot. It’s possible to arrive by helicopter or light aircraft using the venue’s grass landing strip close to the house. The North Hall is perfect for entertaining up to 80 loved ones for dining and is licensed for ceremonies with up to 150 guests. The Ballroom meanwhile is perfect for dancing. It will also comfortably seat 150 for dining though. Alternatively, head to St Michael’s Church for a wedding ceremony with space for up to 300 guests. You’re also welcome to tie the knot al fresco, where there’s practically unlimited space for your guests. Receptions can also be hosted in the Morning Room and Library for 90 nearest and dearest. The Morning Room faces south and east, and is bright throughout the day. With large double doors leading into the grounds, it makes a perfect space to return to for morning coffee or afternoon tea after a stroll in the grounds. And if there’s one room in the house that typifies it as a family home, it’s The Library. Immensely cosy, with the comfiest of chairs, just curl up by the fire and relax at the end of a wonderful but long day. www.robingoodlad.com THE RIDGEWAY BARNS 01793 791 746 | https://theridgewaybarns.co.uk The Ridgeway Barns is an award-winning wedding and events venue in the heart of the North Wessex Downs. The site features a beautiful 19th-century threshing barn, glorious gardens with stunning views and luxury farmhouse accommodation for 15. Welcome your guests into the spectacular glass atrium, say “I do” beneath the gorgeous oak-gazebo and host your drinks reception on the lawn while taking in the stunning views. Later in the day, move through to the rustic threshing barn for feasting and dancing the night away. The venue specialises in multi-day hire. For weekend weddings, it offers three-day exclusive hire including accommodation, allowing you to really make the most of your wedding gathering your closest friends and family the night before your big day, and extending celebrations into the Sunday if you wish. On-day, one-night and two-night options are available midweek. Set among paddocks and fields of barley, oats and wheat, The Ridgeway Barns is at the heart of a working farm, with far-reaching views across rolling hills and the ancient Ridgeway Trail. The landscaped gardens include expansive lawns surrounded by blossoming roses, the oak-framed gazebo and an ancient wisteria adorning the front of the Georgian farmhouse. Ceremonies can be hosted in the aforementioned gazebo for 120 guests. The Threshing Barn can host the same number for the “I dos” allowing you to exchange vows beneath the lovely oak beams. The Ceremony Room with space for 24 nearest and dearest is ideal for more intimate ceremonies indoors. Alternatively, the Stretch Tent can accommodate 80 and is a great just-in-case when the weather isn’t quite on your side. It still offers stunning views. Receptions take place in the Threshing Barn and gardens for 100 dining and 120 evening guests. As an exclusive-use venue, you and your guests will have the whole venue to use for your celebrations. Reception drinks typically take place among the glorious gardens when the weather is fine, or in the Barn when it’s a little cooler. The stretch tent, included for weddings between May and September, provides an additional covered outdoor space. Venue hire includes support from the dedicated events team, both throughout the wedding planning journey and on the day to ensure you can fully relax and enjoy. You’re also free to choose your own caterers and other suppliers, but the team is always on hand to provide recommendations. https://albertpalmerphotography.com Historical hero www.storyboxfilms.co.uk www.storyboxfilms.co.uk www.storyboxfilms.co.uk Rustic romance Scan to view video 18
With honey coloured houses, higgledy-piggledy villages and peaceful countryside, the Cotswolds is one of the most romantic backdrops for your wedding day. With packages to suit all budgets, plus an all-inclusive 2025 wedding package, delicious menus and breath-taking lake views, De Vere Cotswold Water Park is an easy choice if you’re searching for an unique, beautiful venue. Please visit our website to find out more. Say I do at De Vere Cotswold Water Park Lake 6, South Cerney, GL7 5FP 01285 864 000 waterpark.events@devere.com
WILD THYME & HONEY 01285 851 806 | www.wildthymeandhoney.co.uk Nestled in the stunning Cotswolds countryside by the banks of Ampney Brook, Wild Thyme & Honey is an idyllic retreat, perfect for a dream Cotswolds wedding. Offering a range of stunning spaces, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, this boutique venue creates the ideal setting to exchange vows and celebrate into the evening. With 24 beautifully designed rooms and suites, including No. 3 London Road, the exclusive honeymoon suite, guests can enjoy the venue’s luxurious amenities. The suite features a hand-crafted four-poster bed, a private patio with a sauna and Jacuzzi, and breathtaking views of the surrounding river and countryside. Every detail is curated for the ultimate in relaxation and tranquillity. The Secret Garden Room is a secluded, enchanting space ideal for intimate ceremonies of up to 24 guests. The Wild Thyme & Honey Suite meanwhile, accommodates up to 100 seated guests, offering a perfect blend of elegance and comfort. Finally, the Courtyard offers a cosy, atmospheric area for a drinks reception, complete with real fires, candles, and blankets, creating a warm and magical winter ambience. Wild Thyme & Honey is also home to the award-winning Crown Restaurant & Pub, which showcases farm-to-table dining using the finest local ingredients from around the British Isles. WHITE HORSE INN 01278 641 234 | www.whitehorseinnmark.com The White Horse Inn, located on the Abbots Causeway in Mark, has historical significance having once been a one-roomed cider house with a Victorian extension and was constructed on the site of the ancient High Hall of the abbots of Glastonbury. In the 1300s, the abbots would travel to the surrounding manors on barges on the Mark Yeo river, which flows directly opposite the pub. Today, the White Horse Inn is a quintessential English village inn welcoming both locals and visitors with award-winning real ales and a delightful selection of small vineyard wines. The inn’s charms extend to its diverse spaces, including a dog-friendly Parlour, the Victorian Lounge, and the Abbots Room, which can be partitioned for private dining gatherings and small functions. The Parlour is also available for exclusive use tailoring it to individual requirements. The venue offers its couples exclusive use for their big day and specialises in crafting tailor-made, bespoke weddings that reflect your individual style and vision. Every detail is customisable, ensuring your wedding is nothing short of perfect. Indeed, with decades of combined expertise in fine dining, hospitality, weddings and event management, the four family members who make up the management team, bring a wealth of wisdom to the table – 126 years’ worth to be exact! The gardens are the venue’s pride and joy, and are meticulously cared for with love and dedication. The West Garden is the most expansive open space and plays host to the venue’s marquee weddings. There’s also a purpose-built pavilion where ceremonies take place surrounded by 100 or more loved ones. More intimate ceremonies can also be held in the Abbots Room surrounded by 50 nearest and dearest. It’s a chapel-style room, complete with fairylights overhead. The Lounge Room can hold 70 seated. A quintessential country village pub room, it comes complete with a fireplace adorned in melted wax candles. The Abbots Room can also accommodate 32 guests for dining at separate tables, or 26 around one large table. Meanwhile, the Lounge Room, Abbots Room and Parlour together can seat 90. The outdoor marquee is ideal for larger celebrations with 110 seated guests, and 200 for the evening bash. Marquees are provided by Abbas Marquees. Country pub classic www.bigeyephotography.co.uk Boutique charm DREAM VENUES 21
A dream of a day Emily and Chris fell in love with local venue Berwick Lodge and can’t praise its team highly enough Images courtesy of Red Maple Photography 22
Emily and Chris met during their university years in Plymouth. They were introduced by a mutual friend, and that’s where their story began. “Aside from her obvious good looks, within only a few minutes of speaking, I knew there was something more between us,” Chris shares. The two enjoyed an evening of chatting over drinks and haven’t stopped enjoying each other’s company since. “Emily is known for finding the best deals out there, but I think I won when it came to finding her that day,” Chris continues. “At full price and worth every penny, she is my world! We’ve shared more than a decade of memories and milestones including graduations, landing our first professional jobs, buying our first home together, and travelling the world side by side. None of which would have been possible without our attentiveness to one another and the love we share.” Chris had an idea in mind for a while once he’d decided he wanted to propose. The couple had talked about doing a hot air balloon ride together but life always got in the way and they’d never gotten around to it. Having received the blessing of Emily’s dad earlier in the year, Chris set his plan into motion. Under the guise of a meal at Haselbury Mill near Crewkerne, he revealed that they’d finally be taking that ride. Before long, they were airborne and taking in the views. Chris gave a knowing signal to the pilot who took them higher to allow more time for Chris to deliver his prepared words. “I awkwardly got down on one knee in the tiny basket,” he remembers. “Hundreds of feet in the air, wind gusting, fire billowing overhead, I’ve never made things easy for myself! Yet when it came to the ultimate question, any nerves or fear just faded away. I’d never been so sure of anything, and when she said ‘yes’ it was one of the best moments of my life.” So, with the date set for the big day set for 15th June 2024, join us as the groom, Chris, tells us more... LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION The couple came across Berwick Lodge in January ‘23 having read the reviews hailing it as a ‘hidden gem.’ They attended an open day and instantly fell in love with the gorgeous building, stunning grounds, and most of all the people. “We spent 18 months planning our wedding and the level of care, service and quality from its wonderful staff is second to none,” Chris explains. Each room has a uniqueness to it, all sharing a high quality and luxury feel. We understand that the couple’s guests loved their stays, and the newlyweds stayed in Lydia, the bridal suite. “It was the perfect way to wake up on our first day of married life. We can’t recommend this idyllic place enough,” Chris says. SETTING THE SCENE Having settled on a palette of pastels featuring pink, cream and purple, Emily and Chris met with their florist, Loubee Floral Designs, to discuss their vision. “Louise was very friendly and offered us a number of floral arrangement options. We opted for a back meadow, urns, table and sign flowers, bouquets and our statement piece: our cake meadow,” Chris says. “Louise worked closely with our cake supplier to ensure this looked amazing and our guests couldn’t stop talking about it. We’re so pleased with how everything turned out.” The centrepieces were small white porcelain bowls containing an assortment of flowers to match the bouquets and meadow arrangements. The cake itself was a three-tier showstopper featuring chosen flavours signature chocolate, orange and passion fruit, and strawberry and Champagne. The couple chose asymmetrical layers to give it a modern look and show the design at its best. They also decided on a white colour pure to keep it elegant and show off the pastel colours of the flowers haloed beneath it. “Joanna from Joanna Pyda Cake Studio is such a lovely person and was so accommodating to work with,” Chris remembers. “We met her at a wedding fair at Berwick Lodge and we were excited to work with her for our day.” The reception space featured eight tables including the newlyweds’ sweetheart one. This allowed them to look out at all of their guests as well as having their own conversations, plus the chance to mingle with guests between each course. Each table was named after a date significant to the couple, for example 2011 when REAL WEDDINGS 23
Pretty barn in the beautiful Somerset countryside www.14andsixpence.co.uk 01823 276590 | mail@14andsixpence.co.uk Mulberry, Ashwell Business Park. Nr Ilminster. Somerset TA19 9DX MAKE YOUR WEDDING DAY UNFORGETTABLE WITH OUR FUN CASINO ENTERTAINMENT. Our professional croupiers will guide your guests through games of roulette, blackjack and poker creating a lively and engaging atmosphere that everyone, young and old will enjoy. Whether you’re looking to add some excitement to your reception or want to give your guests a unique way to bond and socialise, an Aces Fun Casino is the perfect choice. Covering all of the south west, south Wales, Bristol and Gloucester. Book now and let the good times roll! Call 01934 420 126 www.acesfuncasinos.co.uk
they met and 2018 when they went on a road trip around the U.S. The table plan and place names, meanwhile, had a navy blue border to match their invitations and stationery, and was embellished with flowers in the top left corner. Each guest was given a menu card dependant on their dietary requirements, allowing everyone to know what they’d be eating for each course. Also featured overleaf were the speeches, and who they were being delivered by. “The food and drink was exquisite,” Chris remembers. Guests were served a selection of five canapés during the drinks reception, which preceded the wedding breakfast of a fishcake starter, a lamb main course, and chocolate fondant dessert. For the evening, everyone was fuelled for the dancefloor by sausage baps and s’mores. “The chefs, kitchen and waiting staff deserve such high praise, not only for the quality of the meal but for their attentiveness to our guests, making sure everything was on time and glasses were always kept topped up.” LOOKING THE PART Chris wore a three-piece Marc Dacry suit in navy blue from Bakers of Bond Street in Yeovil. He accessorised with dark brown Goor brogues, a purple pattered tie, and pocket square. Hammered sterling silver cufflinks from Corazon Latino and matching tie clip offered the perfect finishing touches, along with a Tudor Black Bay 58 watch. His groomsmen wore a similar navy suit in a different texture for differentiation. They all had matching ties and pocket squares in the same floral purple colour and pattern. The bride looked stunning in her Luna Novias gown, Casandra, a mermaid fit and flair in lace. The glitter tulle overskirt was removable creating a new look for the evening dancing. She accessorised with a golf leaf and pearl hair clip, pearl bracelet from Liberty In Love and pearl drop earrings. Her shoes had a comfortable block heel and were an ivory satin with diamanté trim for a touch more sparkle. The bridesmaids wore matching navy blue, Bardot, draped, high-leg split maxi dresses. These were paired with silver heels, cluster earrings and silver hair pins. CELEBRATE IN STYLE Happily the newlyweds were very fortunate with the weather on the big day, and since they’ve always enjoyed lawn games they provided a variety including boules, croquet, darts, badminton and giant Jenga, which all went down a storm. The main entertainment throughout the day was provided by The Sidekicks and Tawsax. “What can we say about this band?” Chris asks. “Simply put, they’re awesome!” The couple were drawn to them based on the glowing reviews they read as well as the band’s promotional videos, showcasing the vibe the couple knew they were looking for. “During the planning process, they were super-responsive and flexible in talking through the specifics for the day and any requests we had,” Chris remembers. They chose a package that included Mike and Chloe as a duet performing during the ceremony. This was followed by an acoustic set during the drinks reception, with Neil joining in on percussion. When the evening rolled in, they transformed the dining area into a fantastic party atmosphere with their lighting and sound system. Mike, Neil and Ed played the newlyweds’ first dance perfectly and got everyone on the dancefloor from that point on. The performance was further enhanced by Tim on saxophone, moving through the crowd. “These guys had such a range and pitched every part of the day perfectly. We can’t thank them enough for making our wedding so much fun,” Chris says. 25 REAL WEDDINGS
www.yourbristolsomerset.weddingRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=