An Essex Wedding - Sep/Oct 2019 (Issue 88)

A HELPING HAND Planning a wedding comes pretty high on the list of the most stressful life situations, but this could be a thing of the past with The Wedding Confidence Coach, Jo Hanby. After working with couples for more than 15 years as a wedding planner, owner of sellmyweddingdress.co.uk and with qualifications in life coaching, NLP, counselling and energy work, Jo is brilliantly placed to offer wedding confidence coaching to the entire bridal party. “As an independent, neutral third party I help nearlyweds get the day they want without the stress,” Jo tells us. “We focus less on Pinterest- perfect events and more on the emotional wellbeing of the couple and the people around them. Coaching sessions encompass a holistic view of the planning journey to help manage stress, anxiety and nerves.” Sessions are ideal for those who are reluctant to be the centre of attention on their big day, or those who are worried about not getting the day they want because they’re afraid to speak out. For more information, head to weddingconfidencecoach.co.uk Wedding Wellness The Wellness Barn, a holistic wellness centre tucked away on a beautiful farm near Ingatestone, has launched its Bohemian Bride experience – a brilliant alternative to the traditional boozy hen do. First opening its doors in January, the space boasts a yoga studio, quirky bohemian shop, holistic treatment suite and a private counselling room for talking therapy and hypnotherapy. It’s the perfect spot for a range of workshops, classes, retreats and treatments – a one-stop shop for your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing! The Bohemian Bride experience is a pre-wedding celebration for those who want something off the beaten track. Totally bespoke, the day can include a host of activities. Creative sessions could include dreamcatcher making, group vision board creation, and designing affirmation-card favours. Next, choose a crystal singing bowl class or a deep relaxation session. There will also be welcome drinks for each of your besties, relaxing facials and a delicious Moroccan mezze feast. Finish off with a one-of- a-kind face yoga experience, which promises to tone and relax the face for a naturally radiant glow. Find out more on the website wellnessbarn.co.uk ISLAND GETAWAY Looking for an idyllic mini-moon spot or a pre-wedding trip? All 18 properties on the UK’s coolest private island, Osea, are now available on Airbnb managed by Pass The Keys. To those living on the Essex coast, the news that Rihanna may have found sanctuary on the stunning Osea Island came as little surprise. Only 90 minutes from central London, it sits in the Blackwater estuary and offers the ultimate in secluded luxury. With access reliant on tides, privacy is a given. Whether you want to nab all 18 properties for the ultimate summer wedding weekend, or you just need some precious downtime surrounded by four miles of impeccable beaches, the island’s properties are open for business. There’s even a converted World War II torpedo manufacturing plant for those who like their rentals on the quirky side. Head to passthekeys.co.uk for more information. CAKE, GLORIOUS CAKE Essex County Cakes has announced the launch of its second showroom in Fobbing. “We’ve had huge success with our Benfleet premises,” says owner Gordon Harwood. “This is mainly down to our excellent location on London Road within a florist and our popular wedding nights that we hold on the first Tuesday of each month. However, we have realised that due to clients’ own commitments we needed to provide more flexible hours.” Available on an appointment-only basis, the new Fobbing showroom will give nearlyweds the opportunity to choose when it’s most convenient for them to visit. Gordon says, “This could be 7am or 10pm, any day of the week, whenever is best. It’s a truly personal experience.” Couples will be offered complimentary design consultations and most importantly, cake tastings with a cuppa! There are also plenty of creations on display to help decision-making and when it comes to the big day, there’s a dedicated collection point if you’re not having your masterpiece delivered. The showroom officially opens on Saturday 12 th October, 2019. To book an appointment, visit essexcountycakes.com or email info@essexcountycakes.co.uk . Make sure you turn to page 13 for a brilliant offer from the company. Make sure you check out the amazing wedding shows we’re organising this autumn! Go to countyweddingevents.com 10