£3.55 NOV/DEC 2024 YORKSHIREWEDDING Glamour and GLADRAGS Dressing the bridal party A honeymoon in the Maldives TIMES A-Z of entertainment WIN! KEEP IT COSY Winter venues Fun Trendsetters Hot new bridal looks for 2025
FIND THE PERFECT GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS HALIFAX 14 / 16 CORN MARKET HALIFAX, HX1 1TH JEWELLERY SHOWROOM 4 WOOLSHOPS HALIFAX, HX1 1RU ILKLEY 2 THE GROVE ILKLEY, LS29 9EG
REGULARS 7 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Kelly 8 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the county 10 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs 44 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer stellar advice on personalising your wedding day 81 COMPETITION Win a romantic retreat to The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort CONTENTS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024 VENUES 13 SPOTLIGHT ON... Rotherham and Doncaster 16 SUITE SPOT Editor Kelly Andrews paid a visit to Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa 19 KEEP IT COSY Local venues ideal for a heart-warming winter wedding On the cover This issue’s cover was captured by Louise Pollitt Photography (www.louisepollittphotography.com) at Wressle Grange (www.wresslegrange.co.uk). Turn to page 37 to find the full shoot in all it’s glory! 44 8 FEATURES 37 WILDLY ROMANTIC This shoot showcase at Wressle Grange demonstrates its dreamy blend of traditional and contemporary style 41 FUN TIMES Our A-Z of wedding entertainment 46 SEASONAL STYLE As the seasons change discover how to embrace the chill and celebrate the sun 49 GLAMOUR AND GLADRAGS Top tips and trends for dressing your bridal party 41 @wethefoodsnobs 3
REAL WEDDINGS 22 BLACK TIE GLAM Courtney and Garry tied the knot at Carlton Towers in September 2024 27 HOME SWEEET HOME Emma and Nick said “I do” at Woolley St Peters Church, followed by celebrations at their farm 32 BLUE BEAUTY Abbie and Liam styled their day in a dusky blue palette accented with pearls inspired by the bride’s dress HONEYMOONS 72 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 74 MUSCAT MOMENTS We discover why Oman is the jewel in the Middle East’s crown 76 WITH LOVE FROM THE WHITE ISLAND Jet to TRS Ibiza Hotel in the popular coastal town of San Antonio 78 PAMPERED POOCHES Discover the best properties for a honeymoon with your fur-baby 80 TO STAY OR NOT TO STAY We visit DoubleTree by Hilton Stratford-Upon_Avon GROOMS 62 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 63 RING-A-DING-DING Diamond expert Jake Asaad from GOODSTONE reveals how to find the perfect engagement ring for the groom-to-be 64 WINTER LUXE The latest seasonal must-haves for the groom-to-be FASHION & BEAUTY 52 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 53 TRENDSETTERS Hot off the bridal catwalk, these dresses showcase what’s new for 2025 61 A TOUCH OF SPARKLE Glamorous accessories for winter weddings 66 BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems 67 GET FIT AND FEEL FABULOUS Will Broome from Gym Equipment tells us why a pre-wedding Pilates routine could be just the tonic 68 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with the latest must-haves 70 SIMPLY SCENT-SATIONAL We chat to perfumier Chandrika Thomas about finding that signature wedding-day scent 27 22 32 49 @mollieedwardsphotography nicolewilcoxphotography.co.uk www.danielberryphotography.com 4
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81 WIN! A honeymoon in the Maldives 27 TIME FOR TEE The mini golf course they hired for their big day was one of bride Emma’s highlights. Well, didn’t 2024 go by in a flash? I can hardly believe we’re here at the end of the year talking about Christmas and New Year! Huge congrats to all of you tying the knot this season. I can’t wait to see the photos of your cosy, romantic big days. And for those of you currently considering a winter wedding date, don’t miss our winter wonderland venues feature from page 19, rounding up the cosiest local hotspots, a dream for the season. I paid a visit to Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa recently and with the roaring log fire that welcomed me as soon as I stepped foot inside, this is definitely a candidate for a wonderful winter warmer. Turn to page 16 where I share more of my experiences from my stay in Leeds. This issue, our thoughts have turned to dressing your bridal parties. Once you’ve sorted your big-day look, it’s time to think about how to style your besties to complement you and your palette. Ensuring treasured loved ones are comfortable and confident throughout day is becoming increasingly important to couples, and rightly so. So, don’t miss our guide to what’s hot and who you can turn to for some all-important local expertise. Finally, with more and more couples looking to personalise their weddings to the max, we talked to the county’s experts to get their suggestions for making your big day uniquely you. Check out Hot Topic from page 44. As well as wishing you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year, I’ll sign off 2024 by saying: Enjoy, and keeeep planning! See you in 2025! Kelly x ISSN 1746-9384 Your Yorkshire 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 Yorkshire Wedding is published six times a year. Kelly Andrews, editor 37 ROMANCING THE MANOR I love this softly elegant bridal look from this issue’s styled shoot. The floaty sleeves and skirt contrasted with the fitted top and pearl headband giving it all the right modern feels for me. 41 LET’S DANCE! Stuck for entertainment ideas? Our A-Z will have you inspired and poised to book in no time. @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 Santa’s on his way ADVERTISING Account Manager Amii Matthews | 01376 538 560 amii.matthews@county.wedding @mollieedwardsphotography www.louisepollittphotography.com www.pixiejaynephotography.com EDITOR’S LETTER 7
NEWS Catch up on the latest from around the county SUITED AND BOOTED UK menswear brand Skopes has opened its flagship store at White Rose Shopping Centre marking a homecoming for the Leeds brand. Skopes CEO Simon Cope officially opened the store recently, together with Married at First Sight star and brand ambassador Matt Jameson. The new store marks a major expansion for the heritage men’s tailoring brand, which was originally founded in Leeds in 1948. The store offers a full range of menswear including suits, outerwear, shirts, footwear and accessories in a variety of contemporary styles, fits, and colours with sizes from a 34-inch chest up to 62 inch. With a bright, modern colour scheme, the store layout is organised by themes such as Getting Hitched and Ready for the Races, and includes a large fitting area, to accommodate a full wedding party. Like other Skopes stores, the White Rose location will also be offering quick turnaround alterations for customers, ensuring everyone gets the perfect fit. Find out more at www.skopes.co.uk Nearlywed SUSTAINABLE SPA TRAILBLAZER West Yorkshire-based Titanic Spa, the UK’s first eco-spa, has been recognised as a leading eco-spa location in the 2024 Marie Claire Sustainability Awards for the fourth year in a row, achieving Highly Commended in the Best Sustainable Spa category. The award firmly solidifies Titantic Spa’s position as a trailblazer of sustainability in the UK spa industry. Set among the hills of the Yorkshire Pennines it renewably generates its energy using solar photovoltaic roof panels; and boasts the spa’s very own natural water source, found 100m below the Spa. This was the original water source when the building was working as an Edwardian textile mill and provides fresh drinking water and bathing water for Spa’s plunge pool, salt regulated swimming pool, showers and ice experience. What’s more the OTEX laundry system, also used in hospitals, is energy efficient and extremely powerful at cleaning. There’s a ban on single-use plastic on site and low U value windows eliminate draughts and thermal mass, so the spa doesn’t overheat in the summer and retains a comfortable temperature during the winter. To find out about this and many more of Titanic Spa’s eco-friendly initiatives head over to www.titanicspa.com 8 A TOUCH OF SPARKLE Carlton Towers is a popular wedding venue year-round due to its setting nestled in the Yorkshire countryside. Reached via a long sweeping drive, the Gothic style house overlooks 250 acres of private parkland and woodland. Couples can take advantage of the elegant state rooms, stone staircase for photographs, and grounds, for their celebrations. Weddings at Carlton Towers will have extra sparkle from now on thanks to a delicious new Brut Rosé Sparkling wine produced from vines grown in the Walled Garden Vineyard within the estate’s grounds. The 2022 vintage has been blended from the vines of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes by owners Lord and Lady Fitzalan Howard. “As well as tasting delicious, the wine is a gorgeous salmon pink colour. It will make a perfect aperitif or a beautiful accompaniment for toasting the happy couple on their special day,“ says Lady Gerald Fitzalan Howard. According to the tasting notes Carlton Towers Brut Rose Sparkling Wine has an aroma of strawberry, raspberry, and rhubarb. It tastes of zingy fresh strawberry, red apple and raspberry with a hint of white chocolate. It’s best served chilled. The wine can be bought by the glass from the bar at weddings and as part of a drinks package for toasts. Bottles can also be purchased online at www.carltontowers.co.uk/coursesgift-ideas/p/carlton-towers-sparkling-wine-2022
MEET THE MAKERS A pop-up artisan market at The Springs Leeds has proved so popular that organisers have committed to making it a regular feature throughout the year. We think it’s the perfect place to look for handmade gifts and goodies for your wedding day! The Leeds Local Market debuted at The Springs earlier in the year to celebrate Yorkshire Day, with 22 of Leeds’ finest local traders and independent businesses showcasing their wares with delicious food and artisan gifts on offer. Among the popular vendors were The Tru Soap Co, Yorkshire Pie Bakery, The Baking Banksy, COOK, The Crafty Northerner, Brutalist & Co. and many others. Hosted by Yorkshire Urban Markets, the event exceeded all expectations, prompting plans to make The Springs a regular market destination alongside already established markets in Meanwood and Rothwell. Find out more at https://thesprings-leeds.co.uk STEP INTO YOUR COMFORT ZONE Mercure Sheffield Kenwood Hall Hotel & Spa has launched a new collection of spa treatments, which combines its most popular treatments such as full body massages and facials with new restorative and antiaging options from its spa partner [Comfort Zone]. You can try the new [Comfort Zone] Hydramemory Facial, a treatment that uses advanced massage techniques and cryo spoons to reduce the appearance of fine lines, and tone and cool the skin. The combination of lactic acid for immediate renewal and glow, powerful hyaluronic acid, and bio active prickly pear for hydration provides instant radiance and healthy dewy skin. Also new is the Luminant Brightening Facial. An intensive triple-action facial designed to correct existing dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone, it reveals fresh, bright and radiant skin. This facial is ideal after sun exposure and is suitable for everyone, even during pregnancy. The Spa also provides a selection of treatments with men in mind, including the High-Performance Facial, De-Stress Back and Shoulder Rescue, and Foot and Leg Massage. Day Escapes include up to four hours of treatments and a two-course lunch or afternoon tea. Day guests, and anyone spending £48 or more on treatments, may use the heated indoor pool and sauna during their visit. The Spa is open Monday-Saturday, 8am-8pm; and Sunday, 10am- 5.45pm. For more information, head over to www.kenwoodhall.co.uk/leisure-and-spa-breaks DATE NIGHT DREAM Located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and the North Yorkshire city of Ripon, Grantley Hall is a five-star luxury hotel with 47 exquisite bedrooms, five restaurants and three stunning bars. It’s also home to the tranquil Three Graces Spa and state-of-the-art facility, the ELITE Luxury Gym. Shaun Rankin’s namesake fine-dining restaurant located within the property, champions the very best ingredients from across the Yorkshire region. Awarded its first Michelin star in January 2020, guests of the restaurant are invited to an extraordinary dining experience that combines culinary artistry with warm Yorkshire hospitality in a setting of timeless sophistication. Shaun has been at the forefront of championing sustainable and seasonal British produce since achieving his first Michelin star in 2005 – an ethos that’s been at the core of Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall since its conception. The chef patron strives to conduct the restaurant with food provenance at the forefront, overseeing and nurturing a kitchen garden that’s located on the hotel’s grounds. It produces an abundant array of seasonal vegetables, fruit and herbs all of which play a crucial role in inspiring Shaun’s seasonal Taste of Home menu. Other ingredients and produce are carefully sourced from local suppliers located within a 30-mile radius to ensure the finest and freshest quality. For something more intimate, the restaurant is also home to The Kitchen Table, which seats up to six guests. Guests of The Kitchen Table are provided with a dedicated front of house team and Head Sommelier, dining from an exclusive tasting menu. A selection of wines carefully paired to accompany the food offering completes the gastronomic journey. For larger events or occasions, The Dales Suite, a private dining room inspired by 19th century decor, seats up to 20 people. Find out more at www.grantleyhall.co.uk/dining/shaun-rankin-at-grantley-hall @wethefoodsnobs LOCAL NEWS 9
RAISE THE BAR Calling all soon-to-be-weds! Imagine this: a stunning, vintage-inspired Airstream bar, gleaming in the sun or under twinkling fairylights, serving your guests the finest drinks at your dream wedding. With Ales & Cocktails’ Silver Dream Airstream Bar, you’ll add an unforgettable touch to your special day, thanks to this chic and stylish bar experience sure to keep your guests talking about your wedding for years to come, for all the right reasons! Owner Vicky and her team will work closely with you to create a custom drink menu that reflects your own personal style, whether you’re after classic cocktails, local craft beers, or non-alcoholic delights. They’ll be on hand to make sure every sip is just as magical as the moment you say “I do.” Let Ales & Cocktails create a day filled with love, laughter, and incredible memories one perfect pour at a time. We’ve partnered with Ales & Cocktails this issue to offer Your Yorkshire Wedding readers a fantastic deal on this exceptional experience. Normally, the booking cost is £200, however when you quote “youryorkswed”, you’ll receive an exclusive discount of £50. So, don’t miss your chance to bring something truly extraordinary to your big day – your guests (and your future selves) will thank you! Offer ends 31st December 2024. Find out more at www.alesandcocktails.co.uk WIN THE ULTIMATE BRIDAL BAG Marriage is one of the most important milestones in most people’s lives, so why not mark the occasion with fabulous wedding bags that stand out from the norm? Vendula London’s Bubble Bags Wedding Edition, are the perfect means of celebrating the big day in your own unique way, whether adding the finishing flourishes to your hen party outfit or finding something unique for the rehearsal dinner. All Vendula London designs are created using zero animal testing and cruelty-free methods; this ethos means that the brand’s proudly certified as vegan-approved by The Vegetarian Society. Visit www.vendulalondon.com/uk/handbags/ boutique-ranges/bubble-bags-wedding-edition for more inspiration. County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Vendula London to offer readers the chance to win a Bubble Bag Wedding Edition worth £50 – and we have two up for grabs! Enter online at www.youryorkshirewedding.wedding/win Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs Freebies & OFFERS 10
www.paulhawkettphotography.co.uk Set in picturesque parkland, Escrick Park Estate offers glorious uninterrupted views across the former deer park and open landscape stretching for miles. The grounds are mostly facing south, providing a very special location for your marquee event. This site enables you to build your very own bespoke celebration perfectly with the option of hiring the Woodland to say your ‘I do’s’. Fully-licensed for civil ceremonies. Tel: 01904 728252 Email: enquiries@escrick.com Website: www.escrick.com Address: Escrick Park Estate, Escrick, York, YO19 6EA A perfect grassland space for your bespoke event At Delta Hotels by Marriott York, we offer the ideal venue for weddings, celebrations, and all of life’s special moments. Nestled amidst stunning landscaped gardens, our hotel provides a tranquil escape just minutes from the vibrant energy of historic York. With breathtaking views of the iconic York Racecourse, it’s the perfect setting for unforgettable outdoor ceremonies, elegant drinks receptions, and delightful lawn games. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering of 20 or a grand celebration with up to 120 guests, our bespoke wedding packages are tailored to make your day as unique as your love story. Delta Hotels by Marriott York Tadcaster Road York, United Kingdom, YO24 1QQ •+44 190 4701000 www.marriott.com/LBAYD
A hidden gem in the bustling and vibrant city of Leeds. The Met Hotel offers contemporary and modern décor but keeping the character and grandeur of the beautiful, traditional Grade II listed building. Offering a wide range of function rooms for a ceremony, wedding breakfast or celebration are available, offering a high level of flexibility and the ability to accommodate every individual requirement. 0113 245 0841 www.leedsmet-hotel.com The Met Hotel, King Street, Leeds, LS1 2HQ
ROTHERHAM & DONCASTER Spotlight on... Tie the knot in a local hotspot CARLTON TOWERS 01405861662 | www.carltontowers.co.uk The private home and estate grounds of Lord and Lady Fitzalan Howard, Carlton Towers’ origins date back more than 1,000 years. The surrounding 350 acres of private parkland provide a magnificent setting in a hidden corner of the Yorkshire countryside, while the house’s state rooms are grand and opulent. Wedding parties are able to enjoy exclusive use, not only of the state rooms, but also of the front lawns and sweeping entrance staircase, all with idyllic backdrops for those important photographs and videos. You can opt for a grand setting in one of the venue’s elegant state rooms for your ceremony. The Venetian Drawing Room is majestic in style with a statement marble fireplace, high gilded ceilings, and glittering chandeliers; while the Picture Gallery is adorned with wood panelling and historical paintings. If you prefer an outdoor setting, the pretty Walled Garden Vineyard offers a lovely backdrop for an intimate summer wedding, or if you’re planning something larger you can opt for one of the beautiful Feast Field marquees. You also have the option to say “I do” in the imposing and historical Selby Abbey, just a short drive from Carlton Towers. The venue’s team of in-house chefs pride themselves on producing delicious menus tailored to their couples’ budgetary, dietary and cultural requirements. Where possible, they source local Yorkshire produce in order to create wedding breakfasts that dreams are made of. You can extend your celebrations into an evening reception too, with savoury open platters of artisan breads, York ham, cheeses, homemade chutneys, and pickled heritage vegetables. Carlton Towers boasts 16 opulent state bedrooms that can sleep up to 31 guests. Individual and unusual in style with some lovely features. Plus, tucked away on the estate just a few minutes from the house, you’ll also find the venue’s well-appointed cottages capable of sleeping a further 24 guests. Your dedicated wedding planner will be on hand to advise on everything including those fabulous little finishing touches. You can also choose to use the venue’s in-house florist and stylist or arrange your own team. www.chrischambersphotography.co.uk www.hollyrose.co.uk 13 LOCAL VENUES
www.mhillaryphotography.co.uk UNIQUE OCCASIONS AT LOVERSALL LIMITED 07941 340 291 | www.unique-occasions.com This ancient barn is a superb place to host your special day, surrounded by 129 acres of farmland it offers fantastic backdrops for wedding pictures to be enjoyed for years to come. Ceremonies indoors are held in the barn itself (90 guests), which is flooded with beautiful natural light on a sunny day and offers an intimate location on an autumn afternoon, with fairylights galore strung throughout. The barn also offers a fabulous dancefloor space for the evening celebrations. If you’d prefer to say “I do” al fresco, the meadow (120 guests) is located just across from the barn and is also licensed. Alternatively, for those wishing to opt for a religious ceremony, St Katherine’s Church is directly opposite. In the barn’s adjoining Courtyard Marquee (120 guests) you can host a wonderful wedding breakfast. There’s also ample accommodation available on site in the shape of two cottages each able to sleep eight members of the wedding party the night before, and the night of the wedding, ensuring your special day becomes a truly memorable wedding weekend. The Hideaway Hut is provided for the two of you on your wedding night free of charge. The venue’s wedding planner will meet you three times prior to your special day to discuss your requirements and to help you with anything you need. Also in or around Doncaster YORKSHIRE WILDLIFE PARK 01302 535057 ext 76 | www.yorkshirewildlifepark.com BAWTRY HALL 01302 710 341 | https://bawtryhall.co.uk HOOTON PAGNELL HALL 01977 876 250 | www.hootonpagnellhall.com MOUNT PLEASANT HOTEL 01302 868 696 | www.mountpleasant.co.uk www.mhillaryphotography.co.uk YORKSHIRE WILDLIFE PARK 14
HELLABY HALL 01709 464 164 | www.hellabyhallhotel.co.uk Whether it be a lavish wedding for 200 or an intimate celebration with your nearest and dearest, Hellaby Hall Hotel can offer you a fairytale celebration. Hosting only one wedding per day, it ensures the team can give its couples their undivided attention. After all, the Hotel’s reputation is founded on providing its guests only the highest possible level of care and service, so you and your loved ones will be in the very best hands here. Each wedding package has been carefully crafted to make your special day unforgettable, ensuring every moment is filled with joy, elegance, and cherished moments. Located in beautiful countryside surroundings, the grounds here are meticulously landscaped offering a picture-perfect backdrop for your photographs and for your guests to stroll through during your drinks reception. Here, you have a selection of rooms to choose from for your “I dos.” The Garden Suite, Bramley Suite and Drawing Room are all licensed for civil ceremonies. For your evening celebrations, you can move on to one of a range of versatile spaces such as the Bramley Suite or the contemporary Colonial Suite, hosting up to 250 guests. Then, when it’s time to say goodnight all packages include a wedding night stay for the two of you in the Fretwell Four Poster Bridal Suite located in the 17th -century manor house. Also in or around Rotherham... ASTON HALL HOTEL 01142 872 309 | www.astonhallhotel.co.uk FITZWILLIAM HOTEL 01709 522 744 | www.fitzwilliamarmshotel.co.uk MANORIAL BARN 01709 829 168 | https://manorialbarn.co.uk ROTHERHAM GOLF CLUB 01709 850 466 | www.rotherhamgolfclub.com SITWELL PARK GOLF CLUB 01709 792 062 | https://sitwellgolfclub.com WENTWORTH WOODHOUSE 01226 351 161 | https://wentworthwoodhouse.org.uk 15 LOCAL VENUES
Peacefully tucked away on a business estate in Leeds, Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa offers a warm welcome from the moment you arrive. Conveniently located to enjoy Leeds and its surrounding towns, also means that it’s well connected and easy for your wedding guests to find. Your Yorkshire Wedding editor Kelly Andrews spent a night there to discover what the Hotel has to offer it’s couples. CHECK IN AND CHILL OUT I arrived at the Hotel on a chilly October afternoon and was thrilled to be welcomed by a roaring real fire, instantly warming the cockles! The welcome received by the reception staff was equally as warm when I checked in before heading to my room on the fourth floor, via a lift that can only be described as a work of modern art! I enjoyed a stay in a Signature room, complete with comfy lounge area accessed by a step down from the bedroom. This type of room also offers you access to the spa, gorgeous White Company toiletries and the luxury of a walk in power shower. So, you and your guests will be contentedly comfortable once your celebrations have drawn to a close. TO DINE FOR It being an AA Rosette-winning restaurant, I was looking forward to dinner in the Restaurant and it didn’t disappoint. The mouthwatering menu features and array of dishes crafted from fresh local produce. I decided to keep my meal as local as possible (when in Yorkshire) and opted for the Whitby crab croquette with boiled egg and chive beurre blanc, which was absolutely delicious! I followed this with a main course of Pendle Hill spring lamb served with a puff pastry pastis, spinach and wild garlic puree, and crushed new potatoes. It arrived looking picture-perfect and the flavours really packed a punch. It was so divine that I was sad when I’d devoured the last mouthful, having enjoyed every single bite. The pastis was a revelation! Huge compliments to the chef! You and your guests will have the chance to indulge in similarly delightful dishes on your wedding day since the team of talented chefs here are able to curate showstopping menus to complement your celebrations. TIME FOR A SPOT OF R&R The perfect place to relax and unwind, the spa features all the must-have facilities including swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and state of the art gym. Partnering with French skincare connoisseurs Caudalie, and award-winning TEMPLESPA, makes for a treatment list that’s very difficult indeed to choose from! But decide I did (eventually) and arrived for my TEMPLESPA Glorious Mud Massage. The treatment began with a lymphatic body brushing before my therapist Laura smoothed the warm vitamin and mineral rich purifying mud all over my body. She wrapped me in a cocoon of towels, where I lay snug as a bug in a rug. The warmth together with the heavenly scent of the mud could have let me drift of to sleep if left to my own devices. However, the treatment is paired with a glorious scalp massage to enjoy while the mud does its thing. As a face mask might, the mud dries and flakes when it’s ready to be removed, so it was time to step into the shower to rinse it all off. As soon as the hot water hit me, I could already tell that my skin was unbelievably soft and smooth, which was no mean feat since my legs in particular are generally drier than the Sahara! Laura applied moisturiser all over before I was ready once more to head back out into the world, a new woman! WHERE TO WED When it comes to hosting your big day here, you’ll find the team are practically obsessive about every last detail, working with you to bring your dreams to life. If you’ve got the vision, they’ve certainly got the blank canvas to make it all come to life. The Gallery Suite for example is a modern, stylish space overlooking the courtyard with its own private bar and reception area. It can seat up to 70 for your ceremony, or 50 for a sit-down dinner. The Thorpe Suite is the Hotel’s largest room and seats up to 140 guests. It can however be divided into smaller spaces, making it a versatile option for your wedding breakfast through to evening do. With floor-to-ceiling windows, ambient lighting and a private bar, it’s ideal. Keeping things simple and stress free, Thorpe Park has three wedding packages available to choose from ranging from the Classic, where all the details are covered; through to the Fairytale, which offers all you could dream of and more. Keep calm and marry on Calm is the word when you enjoy a relaxing stay at Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa FIND OUT MORE Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa, 1150 Century Way, Thorpe Park, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS15 8ZB 0113 264 1000 events@thorpeparkhotel.co.uk www.thorpeparkhotel.co.uk Scan to view video 16
T P S W V For more information please contact our dedicated Wedding Co-ordinator T: 01723 361774 (Option 2) E: admin738@britanniahotels.com T R H , S N S , S , YO HE
Congratulations on your engagement! Here at Bert’s we want your day to be special and unique to you. Our rustic barns allow you to do just that, whether it’s a festival style, boho, rustic feel you are after, we are very much relaxed & DIY so that you can put your own stamp to your special day. We are fully licensed for weddings and civil ceremonies too, with plenty of outside space in our court yard and paddock. Prices start from £4500 for exclusive hire. Any questions either give Charlotte a call on 07818 415320 or Jason on 07857 131412. One of our friendly team will be happy to show you around by prior arrangement. www.bertsbarrow.co.uk Bert’s Barrow Wedding Venue
KEEP IT COSY Planning a winter wedding? Don’t miss our venue tips and hotspots Sure, summer has its benefits but we here at Your Yorkshire Wedding believe winter can give it a run for its money when it comes to romantic weddings. If you prefer snuggling up under a blanket by the fire, over sunbathing then winter could well be the season to tie the knot in. Christmas and New Year are a key draw for many, particularly for those who became engaged at this time of year. And there are plenty of ways to embrace the festive season when it comes to your theme and venue styling. Think warm, rich colour palettes featuring jewel tones and nods to Christmas with a fairylight glow or oh-so romantic candlelight, a hot chocolate or mulled wine drinks reception, tables named after your favourite Christmas movies and cracker wedding favours. Why not be decadent and serve a Christmas dinner wedding breakfast? Of course, another rather significant benefit to saying “I do” during the winter is the cost. You’ll find venues a lot cheaper during the winter months with many offering some fabulous cost effective special seasonal packages. Goldsborough Hall (www.goldsboroughhall.com) has recently released its winter dates for 2025/6 with packages starting from £8,995 including a sumptuous three-course wedding breakfast for 50 nearest and dearest. Holdsworth House (www.holdsworthhouse.co.uk) too offers an incredible deal with its Winter Pain Free Package at just £4,995 for dates in January to March 2025, any day of the week. It includes use of the Stuart Room or Abraham Brigg Room for your ceremony and use of the Stuart Room and Courtyard for your reception and evening do, along with much, much more. Check out Ox Pasture Hall Hotel (www.oxpasturehallhotel.com), which offers some fabulous winter and Christmas discounts of up to 30 per cent off depending on your choice of day. The mission of the team at The Mill (https://themillwakefield.com) in Wakefield is to make winter nuptials a real feature of the wedding calendar, and strive to make their venue one of the best for weddings at this time of year. A key consideration if you’re getting married when there’s risk of snow and other adverse wedding conditions is accessibility. With The Mill’s West Yorkshire location, it’s easy to get to and from whatever the weather. Plus, your guests will never feel cold here thanks to the eco fitted energy saving measures and modern heating facilities. There’s also a seasonal wedding breakfast menu featuring locallysourced meats and vegetables as well as expertly foraged produce. When you’re on the lookout for a winter wedding venue, you’re looking for somewhere that’ll be equally as radiant in the snow as it is in the sunshine. Think cosy roaring fires and how about a touch of opulence and luxury? Thicket Priory (https://thicketpriory.co.uk) for example is a romantic and ethereal country house, set in 18 acres of idyllic grounds. Bespoke hire includes exclusive use of the grounds and house, and with 35 ensuite bedrooms capable of accommodating up to 72 guests, you and your loves ones don’t need to worry about how to make it home late at night if the weather is nasty. For a magical winter wonderland theme Whirlow Brook Hall (https://whirlowbrook.co.uk) could be perfect for you. Located in 39 acres of grounds and woodland it offers a beautiful backdrop for a winter wedding. The Hall itself is neutrally decorated allowing you to personalise it according to your vision. Lots of white and silver tones or a rustic look with log slices and pine cones would be divine here. The team have also put together various options in their winter wedding packages to make planning as easy as possible. There are plenty of winter-themed add ons available too such as mulled wine, hot chocolate station and snow machine!* Read on to find out about some of our winter wonderland beauties in more detail. *All information correct at time of writing. Please check indicated website for up-to-date information and verify with the venues. Andrej Lisakov on Unsplash 19 WINTER VENUES
THE PEACOCK SUITE AT HETTY & BETTY 07596 940 483 | www.hettyandbetty.co.uk Located on the first floor of Hetty & Betty’s Grade I listed building, the Peacock Suite radiates period charm mixed with contemporary elegance. Complete with an ornate fireplace housing a double-sided log burner, Captain’s mirror and period panels, it’s steeped in character. The Peacock Suite is an intimate venue accommodating up to 40 guests with a private bar and dancefloor. Located in the centre of Whitby, yards from the famous swing bridge, the venue benefits from the stunning backdrop of the town along with harbour views. All packages include exclusive use of the building and a moon arch, which can be decorated to suit your theme. You’ll also be treated to a first anniversary meal in the restaurant. WOOD HALL HOTEL 01937 587 271 | www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/woodhall Wood Hall Hotel & Spa is a beautiful country house in Wetherby, with stunning views over the Wharfe Valley and Yorkshire countryside. This luxury Hotel offers the perfect blend of historical charm and modern elegance. Choose from a variety of stunning ceremony locations as well as pre-wedding celebration options such as afternoon tea or spa treatments. Your ceremony can be held in The Georgian (80 guests). A lovingly restored room with wonderful views this is a beautiful space in which to exchange your wedding vows. With its large picture windows and fireplace it offers something for all seasons. For al fresco “I dos,” the Italian Gardens (100 guests) allow you to say your vows beneath an open sky surrounded by inspiring Yorkshire countryside. Set in more than 100 acres of gardens and woodlands, this location is the perfect spot for hosting drinks and canapés too. The Vavasour Suite (100 guests) boasts a sense of grandeur for your ceremony and celebrations. This dining room includes a private bar and flexible layouts, along with two impressive chandeliers with adjustable mood lighting, vast windows and a neutral colour scheme. The Exclusively Yours package, starting at £3,500 for 50 guests, grants you exclusive use of the entire venue, ensuring a personalised, unforgettable experience. The package includes sole use of the grounds from midday to 8am the next morning, use of up to 30 bedrooms, complimentary menu tasting with wine for the two of you, master of ceremonies, outdoor areas to use for your ceremony or reception drinks, a reception drink, a selection of three canapés per person, a three-course wedding breakfast followed by tea, coffee and Yorkshire fudge, a glass of prosecco to toast, hot sandwiches and fries for your evening reception, private bar and wooden dancefloor, Chiavari chairs with drape, and a full English breakfast the following morning. https://nicholasteal.com 20
THE CONISTON HOTEL COUNTRY ESTATE & SPA 01756 748 080 | www.theconistonhotel.com The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa boasts plenty of enchanting event spaces to accommodate your guest list. Here you have private grounds and woodland to explore, a barn for small and intimate affairs, plus a modern and contemporary space for larger gatherings. With acres of grounds, plus a majestic lake complete with candlelit jetty and historical church, weddings at The Coniston are truly romantic. Choose the Garnett Room to say, “We do” – flooded with daylight, it seats 80 with room for a grand entrance. Winston’s 17th-century barn (60 guests) boasts original features including exposed beams, or say your vows by the picturesque 24-acre lake (100 guests). There’s also a spectacular Wedding Terrace where up to 100 can watch you wed with breathtaking estate views or enjoy an intimate woodland ceremony for up to 10 at sunset or dusk. In the run up to the big day, guests can even relax in the landscape of luxury at the award-winning Nàdarra Spa. Enjoying views of the Dales, unwind in an outdoor infinity pool or cosy up with aromantic outdoor bath experience, nestled by the woodland. You can even hire the spa exclusively, the perfect pre-wedding celebration. The dedicated team will help plan your special day, down to every last detail. The venue even boasts an in-house celebrant so your vows and ceremony can be completely bespoke to you, your relationship and your journey. BUNNY HILL WEDDINGS 01430 846 022 | www.bunnyhillweddings.co.uk Situated on the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds between York & Hull, Bunny Hill is the perfect backdrop for a relaxed country wedding. Arriving along a leafy lane, you’ll find a picturesque location, homely accommodation and an elegant barn set amongst beautiful grounds. The self-catering accommodation here sleeps up to 35 guests complete with a dedicated Wedding Suite with far-reaching rural views and private garden with Jacuzzi. With exclusive use over three days, in-house catering and bar services as well as on-the-day coordination and a friendly front-ofhouse team, you’ll have everything you need to plan your perfect luxury wedding experience. There are licensed spaces for indoor and outdoor ceremonies here. The elegant Garden Room can hold 160 guests and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows providing a view of the surrounding countryside bringing the outside in to this light and airy space. Alternatively, marry beneath the magnificent oak arbour, surrounded by manicured lawns and woodland with space for up to 200 guests. The grounds provide a wonderful setting for your drinks reception all year round, thanks to the stretch tent covered courtyard complete with patio heaters. There’s also the chic mezzanine bar with plush leather sofas and cosy booths. The reception barn is roomy and light, with space to welcome up to 200 guests for dining and up to 349 guests for your evening reception. The picture windows offer amazing views and there’s an air of refinement and luxury. The stunning chandeliers and warm reclaimed timber will impress your guests and the modern setting helps to get the party started with its LED dancefloor and stage, plus state-of-the-art sound system. When you book your date here you’ll benefit from a free tasting included, as well as use of the Wedding Suite for one night (excluding the Keep It Simple package). A Champagne afternoon tea can be served between 3pm and 4.30pm the day before the wedding (for an additional charge), a minimum of six people is required. www.leejohnmannphotography.com www.leejohnmannphotography.com WINTER VENUES 21
GLAM Black tie Courtney and Garry tied the knot at Carlton Towers in September 2024 Images courtesy of Nicole Wilcox Photography 22
Courtney began looking after Garry’s parent’s horses around 10 years ago, which is how they met. They became friends and their relationship eventually blossomed into love. Back in 2021, the couple were receiving the royal treatment at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in London’s Hyde Park. They enjoyed afternoon tea together, before being given a tour of the ballroom where the late Queen Elizabeth II learned how to dance. They then headed out onto the balcony overlooking Hyde Park and the gate entrance used for the royal family. Courtney was lost, revelling at the history and the experience of walking in such amazing footsteps, so much so she didn’t really take much note of what Garry was up to. “I love you Courtney,” he kept saying. “I know you do, I love you too,” she replied. She hadn’t realised he was trying to get her attention. He finally succeeded and she turned to find him on one knee asking her to marry him. “I was in complete shock,” Courtney remembers. “I said ‘yes’ immediately.” Their guide then emerged with two glasses of Champagne so they could celebrate. This was the start of their London mini-break and they now return every year at the same time to mark the occasion. The venue hunt was on. “I saw Carlton Towers online and knew it was the one,” Courtney shares. But, she kept an open mind and waited until they had the chance to go and view it during one of the venue’s wedding fairs. “The exterior alone is enough to blow anyone away,” she continues, “but when we went in and I heard a violinist playing Tale As Old As Time from Beauty and The Beast, my favourite Disney film, I got goosebumps.” This sealed the deal for the bride-to-be. They were looking for a venue with character, history and wow factor – Carlton Towers certainly ticked all the boxes. So, wasting no time, they set the date for 19th September, 2024. Read on as Courtney tells us more... SETTING THE SCENE Fitting the venue, the couple decided on a black tie theme for their big day. The grand centrepieces were tall acrylic vases filled with English rose garden flowers, including ivory roses, hydrangeas and peonies. Tea lights hung from the vases, which were surrounded by candles. Courtney’s sister made the place names for the couple using black envelopes labelled with gold italic writing. “We tried to stick to a black and gold theme to complement Carlton Towers’ interiors,” Courtney explains. So, the favours too were matte black envelopes with guests’ names printed in gold containing a sachet of wildflower seeds each and a scratch card. Loved ones were also gifted a pair of black or white heart-shaped sunglasses with ‘The Beardshalls 19.09.24’ written on the lenses. The table plan was printed on a large gold-framed mirror surrounded by flowers and candles. The couple opted for numbered tables with around six to nine guests seated at each. There was a white aisle runner for the ceremony to draw the eye to the altar but, Courtney says, “The venue speaks for itself, so it didn’t require much more décor.” The white four-tier big-day bake was adorned in gold leaf. “It was made by a lady who has made cakes for all of our family for a few years now, so it was important to us to have her make our wedding cake,” Courtney explains. The showstopper sat in a six-foot gold footman’s carriage cake stand surrounded by flowers. “The chefs at Carlton Towers are amazing! This was another reason we knew the venue was for us.” – Courtney LOOKING THE PART When shopping for her dream dress, the bride found the one at Abbey Bridal. She chose the gown, Kitty, when her daughter was around eight weeks old and confides that she wasn’t feeling her best at the time, but boutique owner Jess made her feel completely at ease. Courtney loved the fact that the champagne, blush and ivory dress was off-the-shoulder and flattering at the waist with oodles of wow factor. She wore it with a hoop underskirt for extra volume and drama, and Jess personalised her gorgeous veil with the couple’s names and wedding date. Garry wore a tailored black tuxedo with shirt and jacket personalised with REAL WEDDINGS 23
his initials and wedding date stitched on the underside of the collars. His groomsmen wore blacks tuxes too – “They looked amazing alongside the bridesmaids,” Courtney remembers. The bridesmaids were dressed to impress in black floor-length gowns, each in a style of their choice. “From off-the-shoulder, strappy, one shoulder, to more fitted or flowy – the variation suited them all and looked great in photos,” the bride says. Courtney had her daughter’s dress shipped all the way from Poland, only for her to refuse to wear it! So, she ended up wearing a vest all day. “Comfort is key I suppose and I wasn’t arguing with a one-year-old,” she laughs. The youngster also wasn’t keen on the texture of her mum’s wedding dress, so she had to change back into her pyjamas for the wedding breakfast to comfort her when needed. “It actually worked out, as it meant I didn’t get any stains on my dress,” she tells us. CELEBRATE IN STYLE As guests were seated, throughout the ceremony and for the drinks reception and canapes, the amazing Nadia Violin played both her acoustic and electric instruments. Each song held special meaning for the couple, for example two of the songs used during the ceremony were played when their daughter was born. The playlist also included favourite songs of loved ones no longer with them. James Hey played piano during the wedding breakfast. “He was magical to listen to,” Courtney remembers. Following James’ performance, James Lomas Entertainment stepped in with his singing waiter act. Since he’s a family member, the couple knew this was a must on their wedding day. The waiter surprised guests by pretending to trip before bursting into song, shocking all assembled! James himself then joined in from his table. “Our guests couldn’t believe it,” Courtney says. Following the first dance, the couple’s final surprise was The Arg Band. The couple met James Argent during their first holiday together and knew they wanted him to perform on their big day. Then James Hey returned to round out the night with a DJ set. “Neither of us felt nervous on the day, we were just excited to see each other.” – Courtney MEMORABLE MOMENTS “If I had to choose which part of the day stood out for me the most, it was seeing Garry as I walked down the aisle towards him,” the bride shares. “His smile was so wide he couldn’t control it!” A further memory she’ll also keep in her heart was her dad seeing her for the first time in her dress. “He also had my favourite chocolate bar hidden in his pocket for me!” she says. Garry’s best friend’s sister was getting married on the same day around an hour away, but Courtney managed to keep it a secret that he was going to surprise Garry in the evening. “Garry’s face was a picture, it was the best surprise for him,” Courtney explains. “They’ve been best friends since they were one so having him there on our wedding day was so important. Garry was best man for him when they got married too.” THE GREAT GETAWAY After the big day, the couple set out on a mini-moon to their favourite lodge retreat in Wales, where they could finally switch off and relax. Courtney explains: “Newlands Rural Retreats is based on a working farm. We’ve been a few times now and we love it.” 24
ROLL CREDITS Venue and catering, Carlton Towers, www.carltontowers.co.uk | Photographer, Nicole Wilcox Photography, https://nicolewilcoxphotography.co.uk | Videographer, KSFilms, https://ksfilms.co.uk | Dress, Abbey Bridal, www.abbeybridal.co.uk | Groom’s and groomsmen’s suits, Suit Supply (Groom’s tailored by www.instagram.com/markpbond) | Accessories, UK Bullion Jewellers, www.instagram.com/ukbullionjewellers | Eves & Gray | George Fox Cufflinks, https://georgefoxcufflinks.co.uk | Wedding rings, WJ Shaw Jewellers, https://wjshawjewellers.co.uk | Hair stylist, Hairups by Louisa, www.instagram.com/hairups_by_louisa_ | Make-up artist, Ebony O Makeup, www.instagram.com/ebonyomakeup | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Wed2Be | Cake, Parry Bakes, www.instagram.com/parry_bakes Flowers, Cottage Flowers Florist, www.instagram.com/cottageflowersflorist | The Blossom Co., https://theblossom.uk | Stationery, PJW Creations, www.instagram.com/pjwcreationsltd | Entertainment, Nadia Violin, www.instagram.com/nadia_violin | James Lomas Entertainment, www.instagram.com/jameslomas_singer | The Arg Band, www.instagram.com/theargband | James Hey Piano, www.jamesheypiano.com REAL WEDDINGS 25
@IntoTheMeadow_Wildflowers www.into-the-meadow.com Photo Credits: Natalie Hamilton Photography, Fiona Lewis Photography www.emptyquarterevents.co.uk @EmptyQuarterEvents Premium Stretch Tents Photo Credits: Natalie Hamilton Photography, Sam And Louise Photography Designers include Sassi Holford, Caroline Castigliano, Josephine Scott London, Alan Hannah and Ivory & Co. by Sarah Bussey. Bijou Bridal Boutique bijouholm rth www.bijoubridalboutique.com 01484 690 454
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