Your West Midlands Wedding - October/November 2023 (Issue 88)

ROCK THAT FROCK The Dressing Rooms Bridal has launched fantastic new photo shoot images highlighting their stance on inclusivity. Based near Birmingham, TDR Bridal maintains that it is open to everyone, whichever community they belong to or perceived differences they have, with the slogan #OneSizeDoesNotFitAll. The owner of TDR Bridal, Rebecca Baddeley, explained: “I have known for some time that I wanted to do something, needed to do something, to address the elephant in the bridal world room. I remember around eight years ago questioning why there were no black models at a trade show. Don’t get me wrong, things are improving, but the diversity shown in the aesthetic we offer to the world of engaged couples is seriously lacking, and, as uncomfortable as it may be, we, the collective bridal industry, need to take a long, hard look in the mirror and see what we are portraying. On shoot day, the moment the first model came out of the changing area, I knew that this would be something special. It is my hope that people’s perception of what a bride should look like is challenged and may be changed so that we can all, as a collective, ensure that diversity in all its forms is represented in the bridal industry.” Find out more about TDR Bridal at www.tdr-bridal.co.uk MUST-SEE SHOWCASES Brockencote Hall Hotel, an enchanting wedding venue in Worcestershire, is hosting a wedding showcase on 20th November and 12th December between 4pm and 8pm. The events will provide guests with the chance to meet with Brockencote’s award-winning events and weddings team and experience guided tours of the spaces and facilities on offer to help shape their dream wedding. The Victorian manor house is set within 70 acres of stunning parkland, has French-inspired architecture, and 21 bedrooms in the main manor house, all of which are elegantly decorated with luxurious furnishings and plush fabrics, representing the country estate splendour of the hotel. Staci Williams, the wedding and events manager, said: “Brockencote’s idyllic Worcestershire setting makes it a dream venue for weddings, whether it is a small reception, a civil celebration, or a big event, and events like these are a great chance to get to know the venue. We work with a range of suppliers who are handpicked and highly recommended and are able to talk through the various options for couples at the early stages of planning.” Visit www.brockencotehall.com/event for more information. THE PERFECT GETAWAY Set in 26 acres of extensive gardens, Stanbrook Abbey Hotel is renowned as one of Worcestershire’s best-kept secrets. This luxury hotel, dating back to the early 16th century, is a former Grade II-listed monastery with preserved heritage through its original architecture. Couples can now stay at the Manor House, a self-contained five-bedroom hideaway bursting with period features and nestled within Stanbrook Abbey’s peaceful grounds. Celebrate in style, or simply escape for a one-of-a-kind self-catering break in the Worcestershire countryside. Privacy and luxury go hand in hand here, making it ideal for extended families and groups of up to 10 people looking for a short break in the UK. With two, five, or seven night breaks, you can become lord or lady of the manor for as long as you desire. There will be a whole host of goodies and surprises to welcome you, such as two bottles of chilled champagne, a welcome hamper full of homely favourites, handmade chocolates, and much more. Plus, there are a range of experiences available to make your stay entirely bespoke, from cocktail making in the wine cellars to themed sleepovers and tipis for the children. Find out more at www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/stanbrookabbey SNOW IS FALLING Throughout the centuries, Ettington Park in Warwickshire has captivated guests with the grandeur of the Neo-Gothic mansion. For Christmas 2023, this stunning venue is offering an amazing three-day package, perfect as a pre-wedding getaway or mini-moon. From arrival on Christmas Eve, visitors are treated to afternoon tea, followed by an evening of festive fun complete with warming winter cocktails, carols in the Victorian gardens, champagne, canapés, and an exclusive black-tie dinner with live music. Guests will awaken on the big day itself to a sumptuous, cooked breakfast and champagne in time for Santa’s arrival before sitting down to a fabulous Christmas feast. And if that wasn’t enough luxury and indulgence for one day, visitors are also treated to an opulent evening buffet. On Boxing Day, after a hearty breakfast, guests are free to explore their surroundings before a delicious carvery lunch is served, complete with magical entertainment. To finish off the stay, there will be champagne and canapés before a two-course dinner and a special pantomime to guarantee fun for all the family. Visit www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/ettingtonpark for more info. www.bohemianrose.co.uk www.matjamesphotography.co.uk 10

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=