WIN! A romantic mini-moon to Rhodes Gorgeous gowns and accessories A passion for fashion LOVE IS ALL AROUND Be inspired by local couples EXCHANGE VOWS DEC 23/JAN 24 £3.55 Dreamy wedding venues EAST MIDLANDSWEDDING Love at FIRST BITE Catering ideas to wow guests
For fashion-forward bridal luxury in the heart of the Peak District, Charlotte Elizabeth bridal is a Multi award winning high-end Bridal boutique providing beautiful gowns from some of the world’s leading designers. Book your exclusive appointment for an unforgettable bridal experience! contact@charlotteelizabethbridal.com | 01629 818324 www.charlotteelizabethbridal.com 50 DALE ROAD MATLOCK DERBYSHIRE DE4 3LT
REGULARS 6 EDITOR’S LETTER Olivia Gibson shares her top picks from this issue 8 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the region 11 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs 71 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer stellar advice on wedding dilemmas 89 COMPETITION Win a mini-moon in Rhodes worth £1,300 CONTENTS DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024 VENUES 19 KEEP IT LOCAL Exchange vows in and around Derbyshire 23 BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE Tie the knot at these winter wonderland venues On the cover This issue’s cover has been taken from the styled shoot over on page 47, which was captured by the talented, www.evehopkinsonphotography.co.uk 47 23 FEATURES 43 JUST THE TWO OF US This al fresco shoot featured modern and romantic touches to create the ultimate look 47 RUSTIC ROMANCE This autumnal-styled shoot was captured at Dronfield Hall Barn 51 BON APPÉTIT Keeping your guests from going hungry with these local catering companies 75 TIME TO CELEBRATE Keep loved ones entertained throughout the day with these talented businesses 3
REAL WEDDINGS 26 LOVE IS IN THE AIR Eleanor and Reece’s elegant wedding at Yeldersley Hall was perfect from start to finish 32 RUSTIC ROMANCE David and Sophie’s stunning wedding at Skylark Farm featured a sage green colour scheme 37 GO FOR GOLD Kilworth House Hotel provided the perfect setting for Steph and Howard’s wedding HONEYMOONS 82 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 84 THE ITALIAN DREAM Discover the delights of Sardinia with a stay at the impressive Forte Village 86 AN ICONIC ISLAND A honeymooners’ paradise, Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Montego Bay have it all 88 WHAT A TREAT! The stylish Retreat at Elcot Park is country-house comfort at its best FASHION & BEAUTY 54 PARTY PIECES Dazzle at a Christmas or winter wedding in stunning silver and crystal accessories 55 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches 56 A TOUCH OF COLOUR Winter isn’t about wearing a white wedding dress, pick a fruit-pastel inspired shade or something a little bolder 59 IN VOGUE These model looks showcase the hottest bridal trends for 2024, with delicate details, texture takeovers and playful shorter styles 64 BEAUTY QUEEN We chat to Hannah Martin about her new book, Makeup, and all things bridal beauty 66 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with the latest must-haves 68 WELL GROUNDED If wedding planning stress is getting the better of you, take this time-out with Ground Wellbeing’s Peigin Crowley 69 BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems 56 37 84 26 GROOMS 78 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 80 MANE ATTRACTION Influencer Eyal Booker and his brother Ariel reveal their top hair care tips for grooms-to-be 81 DRESSED TO KILL Channel your inner James Bond with these black-tie options for the groom-to-be 68 4
Lux Life Wedding Florist of the Year - Northamptonshire 2023 07867 920958 | helbrow@aol.com | www.byarrangement.org KNIBB PLACE, BARTON SEAGRAVE, KETTERING, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE NN15 6SZ Iamges by Sarah Vivienne Photography
Winter isn’t about wearing a white wedding dress, pick a fruit-pastel inspired shade or something a little bolder. Hello, lovely readers, and welcome to another issue of Your East Midlands Wedding! It’s officially the festive season, and you’ll find me playing a winter-inspired playlist with a hot chocolate in hand and a book in the other. Minus scraping the ice off my car in the mornings, winter is my favourite season. There’s something so satisfying about getting cosy, enjoying heart-warming meals, movie nights and Christmas! It’s a magical time with festive cheer, family time, jolly songs, nostalgic films, and plenty of celebrations. For those reading this in January, I hope you’ve all started 2024 with a bang like the fabulous firework displays that lit the sky as Big Ben struck midnight. January is a wonderful time of year! Some may disagree but it signifies new beginnings, which I find rather quite exciting. It’s so freeing to set new goals and ambitions. Just be kind to yourself, don’t add too much pressure and conquer your goals one step at a time. For many, winter will be full of celebrations after many pop the question over the Christmas and New Year period. So, if you’ve just received a shiny new rock, welcome to the world of weddings! We’re so happy you’re here and can’t wait to help you plan the big day. This issue is full of showstopping venues, expert suppliers and plenty of advice – we have it all! We aim to support you from receiving your fabulous engagement ring until you walk down the aisle while keeping it local. It doesn’t stop there, as we share popular honeymoon destinations for unforgettable trips worldwide. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to discover must-have dresses, showstopping accessories, catering inspiration, stunningstyled shoots and local weddings from around the region. Your dream team might only be a few pages away. That’s all from me, happy planning! Olivi Olivia Gibson, Editor Winte wind 56 78 @CountyWeddingMagazines @CountyWeddings @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www. county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com DESIGN 01376 535616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding EDITORIAL Editor Olivia Gibson | 01376 535611 olivia.gibson@county.wedding The Grange in Lincolnshire provided a picture-perfect backdrop to this styled shoot. The team created a luxury picnic for two under a 300-year-old oak tree called William. 43 www.alexandragrecco.com www.sarahcarterphotography.co.uk Channel your inner James Bond with these black-tie options for the groom-to-be! www.marksandspencer.com ADVERTISING Account Manager Gillian Ward | 01376 538 485 gillian.ward@county.wedding 6 cwe COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS ISSN 2054-6726 Your East Midlands Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Events & Publishing 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 East Midlands Wedding is published six times a year.
David and Sophie’s stunning wedding at Skylark Farm featured a sage green colour scheme and plenty of personal touches. 32 Eleanor and Reece’s wedding was full of delicious food to keep guests from going hungry, from a three-course wedding breakfast, a spectacular cake and tasty crepes in the evening! 23 26 11 https://bgsweddings.co.uk Emma Lane Designs offer a large range of unique, handmade garden games that are sure to keep guests entertained. www.thebeardedmanphotography.com www.hannahshearmanphotography.co.uk 71 www.pmphotography.uk We’ve teamed up with Wild Peach Ceremonies to share an exclusive offer for celebrant-led ceremonies! 75 www.portfoliophotographic.co.uk www.facebook.com/lovephotography13weddings Situated in Lincolnshire, The Dower House Hotel is an elegant Edwardian property that provides the ideal setting for winter weddings. EDITOR’S LETTER 7 Plan a stress-free wedding with help from the talented Linzi Barford at that black & white cat weddings!
NEWS Nearlywed All the latest from around the region BLOOMING MARVELLOUS The Horseshoe Flowers team is celebrating its busiest year after helping almost 50 couples bring their dream wedding to life. So, they’re taking on more studio space at The Haarlem Mills in Wirksworth, allowing room for a little photo studio on one side to capture all their designs as the arrangements leave for weddings. There’s now a lovely space for couples to visit and meet the team to discuss their wedding plans. Owner Sarah Ogden says, “Highlights of the year include working with some amazing wedding stylists nationwide, including weddings at the incredible Asylum Chapel in London, The Globe at Hay and one of Derbyshires’ finest venues, Grangefields. We have also designed floral dreams for destination weddings as far away as Santorini and Las Vegas as well as created the flowers for our first-ever wedding taster evening at the local extraordinaire, The West Mill in Derby. We can’t wait to see what 2024 brings!” Discover more about the company: www.horseshoeflowers.com BLUSHING BRIDE Rachel Bray Makeup Artistry is the regional winner at the Wedding Industry Awards. Owner Rachel is thrilled to have taken home the East Midlands Makeup Artist award, a testimony to her hard work and dedication to ensure her clients look and feel their best for events. She says, “I’m absolutely thrilled to have won! The fact that my brides have voted means the world, and the most important thing to me is that they’re happy with their make-up experience. Your bridal look should reflect you, your style and individuality. You’ll want to feel amazing and confident on your wedding day! I love to create natural or soft glam bridal looks. Romantic, glowing and flawless skin is my thing – no caking here! Pick someone with years of experience who knows what products photograph well and will bring the right vibe to your morning. I assure you, they’re worth every single penny!” Discover more about the company: www.rachelbraymakeupartistry.com ACCESSORISE AND SHINE Celebrate individuality with a bridal headpiece from the exciting new British accessories brand Bonito & Grace. The company is the style insider’s go-to for adding a relaxed vibe to occasionwear with modern fascinators, headbands and hair accessories. The new bridal range features the coolest headbands and accessories, offering a contemporary alternative to the traditional veil. With affordable prices, starting at just £25, Bonito & Grace makes that modern bridal style accessible to everyone – a refreshing alternative in budget-busting bridal fashion. Add a retro, playful feel to weddings with the oversized Charlotte Bow. Embellished with pearls and crystals, this super-sized bow makes the most fabulous finishing touch for any fashion-loving bride. Channel Sophie Habboo’s modern elegance bridal vibe with the gorgeous Gigi Headband. The large satin bow and white netting is the perfect clash of prim and playful – pair it with a mini dress and white platform heels for extra style points. Make a statement in the metallic woven Margot Headband. Soft to the touch and super-comfy to wear, the piece instantly adds an effortlessly cool feel. Oversized pearls are a massive trend for 2023, and now brides can get the look with the Ciara Headband. Giving a contemporary twist on a vintage style, it adds a touch of subtle glamour to any wedding day look. Discover the collection: https://bonitoandgrace.com https://heathersham.com www.lindsaybettsphotography.co.uk 8
DRESSED TO IMPRESS Brides dream of their wedding day as a celebration of love and individuality, and the new Bella Donna Collection embodies this vision. Named after the Italian phrase for ‘beautiful woman’, it pays homage to the inherent beauty of each bride. Crafted by Aureus Flos, a brand specialising in handcrafted bridal accessories and jewellery, the collection is a harmonious blend of styles, materials, and inspirations. It features an array of sets, each with a distinctive charm. Inspired by the goddess of flowers, Flora exudes an ethereal allure with Italian silk taffeta to capture nature’s delicate beauty. Rosa evokes the enchantment of Italian gardens, bringing the romance of nature to wedding attire. Diana offers minimalist grace for those who cherish timeless elegance, while Victoria exudes vintage charm with glistening rhinestones and intricate patterns. Aurora, named after the Roman goddess of dawn, shimmers subtly like the first light of day, while Stella is the collection star that exudes drama, glamour, and decadence. The Bella Donna Collection is a versatile and unforgettable choice for every bride, with materials like Italian chiffon, silk taffeta, rhinestones, crystals, seashell pearls, hematites, and quartz crystals. Explore the entire collection: www.aureusflos.com ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY Rutland Hall Hotel recently hosted local businesses at the 18th edition of the Rutland & Stamford Mercury Business Awards, celebrating the success of the best of the county and surrounding area. The prestigious evening gala was proudly hosted in the venue’s new Pavilion building, the latest addition to its events and wedding offering – it can accommodate up to 500 guests ahead of its official opening to the public in January. The evening was hailed a great success by all those in attendance, shining a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of the businesses that drive economic growth and strengthen their local communities. In addition to hosting the event, Rutland Hall proudly sponsored the winners’ champagne, adding a touch of elegance to an already glitzy evening. Winners included Birch Tree Cafe for Best New Start Up, The Blonde Best for Business Innovation and MindSpace Stamford for Team of the Year. Joanne White, managing director of Rutland Hall Hotel, says, “We’re honoured to have hosted the awards in our fabulous Rutland Pavillion and extend our heartfelt congratulations to all winners. Here at Rutland Hall, we’re dedicated to supporting local businesses and fostering a spirit of excellence within our community, so it was fabulous to be a part of this special celebration.” Discover more about the company: https://rutlandhall.co.uk BIG-DAY BEAUTIFUL Jemma Swinfield Hair and Makeup Artist has been announced as a finalist for the English Beauty Awards 2023. This year has been the busiest for owner Jemma, who has met many wonderful couples along the way. She’s noticed make-up trends changing from full glam to more pinky, peachy, and glowing looks. The focus on skin and really enhancing people’s natural beauty has always been her passion, so she’s excited to see this trend continue in 2024. Hairstyles are becoming more relaxed and less formal. Gone are the days of static hairstyles that feel hard to the touch! Wearable, touchable, tousled manes create the ultimate look in quiet luxury. Jemma says, “As an artist, I enjoy the ever-changing styles but encourage my brides to consider how they want to reflect on the images captured from the big day. Fashion changes, and it’s important they still feel like themselves.” Jemma is honoured to have been a finalist for the Best Hair and Makeup Artist Award. She comments, “As always, I’m humbled to have such a rewarding and exciting career. I’m looking forward to the 2024 wedding season already!” Discover: www.bridalhairandmakeupleicestershire.com www.gettyimages.co.uk 9 LOCAL NEWS
Keep your Wedding Flowers Forever Preserve your bouquet For recent work please follow @charlotteceramics Flowers are special and meaningful. They make people smile, spread positivity and are good for mental health, creating happiness and joy. Flowers are a very special part of a wedding for many. But they do not last forever. A way that your bouquet can be preserved forever is by pressing it into clay. My mission is to make so many more brides happy by preserving their special bouquets into everlasting, heart-warming keepsakes using my developed, bespoke way of preserving flowers forever. “I knew about Charlotte since my sister had her wedding bouquet preserved by her and as soon as I got engaged I knew I wanted to do the same. Charlotte’s communication with her clients is great and emails were always replied to very quickly. The process was so simple, I posted my flowers and she kept me updated throughout. Our ceramic pieces now take pride of place in our home and constantly remind us of our special day! Highly recommended!” Flowers can be fresh or dried – if you have a bouquet up in the loft gathering dust, this is an opportunity to have it made into something special that will last forever! Choose from a vase, jug, wall hanging tiles, bowls, coasters, house number plaques and more, plus thank you gifts for family or suppliers. For more information visit www.charlottehupfieldceramics.com Get in Touch! Photography Credit: Melody Todd
Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs EXCHANGING VOWS Look no further than Wild Peach Ceremonies in Leicestershire for relaxed and personal weddings with a difference. Owner Helen Peach-O’Malley is a qualified and passionate celebrant specialising in magical Pagan and Celtic handfasting ceremonies. She says, “Your day should be meaningful, fun and as unique as your love story. I enjoy getting to know my couples and creating magical moments for them to treasure for years to come.” We’ve teamed up with the company to offer readers 10 per cent off full handfasting ceremonies or 5 per cent off scripted wedding ceremonies when they quote Your East Midlands Wedding before February 1st, 2024. Get in touch with the team to secure your booking and discover more about the company: www.wildpeachceremonies.co.uk WIN TWO STRIKING ACCURIST WATCHES WORTH UP TO £538! County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with British heritage watch brand Accurist to offer readers the chance to win this ultimate prize package for nearlyweds. Brides-to-be have the choice of a stunning set from Accurist and Sarah Alexander collaboration (www.accurist.com/accurist-x-sarah-alexander). Priced from £209 to £289. This curation of nine unique giftsets, combines Sarah Alexander jewellery with Accurists best-selling, vintage-inspired Rectangle and Jewellery collections. All gift sets have been hand curated to showcase a coordinated look, featuring bangles, bracelets, earrings and necklaces with a wide variety of unique gemstones such as Rose Quartz, Mother of Pearl and Blue Kyanite − winners will be hard-pressed to choose! Grooms-to-be have the tough choice of selecting a dashing watch from one of Accurists men’s collection (www.accurist.com/mens-watches). Priced from £119 to £249. Whether you go for a 1950s-inspired ‘Classic’ collection or the bold design of its ‘70s bestseller ‘Origin’ collection, all of Accurists’ collections have taken inspiration from 77 years of British watchmaking. Each watch comes with quick-release interchangeable straps, a five-year extended warranty and unique features in each collection. What’s more, whether you require the above two sets, or two brides or grooms, both come presented in Accurists watch roll gift packaging and can be personalised with engraving on the case back − perfect for the happy day. Check out www.accurist.com Enter online via the website www.youreastmidlands.wedding by 31st January, 2024. Terms and conditions apply. Freebies& OFFERS www.thebeardedmanphotography.com FREEBIES & OFFERS 11
SUN, 25 FEB 2024 CAVE HOTEL Brickfield Lane, Boughton, ME13 9AJ ALL EVENTS 11AM - 3PM unless otherwise stated /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area. All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day. WEDDING SHOWS SPRING 2024 KENT SUN, 4 FEB 2024 PENHURST PLACE Penshurst, TN11 8DG SUN, 3 MAR 2024 BRADBOURNE HOUSE New Rd, East Malling, ME19 6DZ SUN, 12 MAY 2024 FRASERS ColdHarbour Farm, Barhams Mill Road, Egerton, TN27 9DD
SUN, 14 JAN 2024 ORSETT HALL Prince Charles Avenue, Orsett, RM16 3HS ESSEX SUN, 7 JAN 2024 HEDINGHAM CASTLE Bayley Street, Castle Hedingham, CO9 3DJ SUN, 21 JAN 2024 PRESTED HALL Feering, Colchester, CO5 9EE SUN, 28 JAN 2024 BRAXTED PARK Braxted Park Estate, Great Braxted, CM8 3EN SUN, 17 MAR 2024 LAYER MARNEY Layer Marney, Colchester, CO5 9US SUN, 11 FEB 2024 CRONDON PARK Stock Road, Stock, CM4 9DP SUN, 24 MAR 2024 VAULTY MANOR Osea Leisure, Goldhanger Road, Heybridge, CM9 4SA SUN, 14 APR 2024 THAT AMAZING PLACE Hubbards Hall Farm, Harlow, CM17 0NH SUN, 21 APR 2024 CHANNELS ESTATE Belsteads Farm Lane, Little Waltham, CM3 3PT SUN, 14 APR 2024 HOUCHINS Houchins Lane, Coggeshall, CO6 1RT SUN, 28 APR 2024 OLD ESSEX BARN Cranes Lane, Kelvedon, Colchester, CO5 9AX SUN, 12 MAY 2024 BRAXTED PARK Braxted Park Estate, Great Braxted, CM8 3EN 12pm-4pm Fashion Show
ESSEX SUN, 19 MAY 2024 ST OSYTH PRIORY West Field Lane, St Osyth, CO16 8GW SUN, 12 MAY 2024 NUTFIELD PRIORY Nutfield Road, Nutfield, Redhill, RH1 4EL SURREY SUN, 18 FEB 2024 DENBIES WINE ESTATE London Road, Dorking, RH5 6AA SUN, 24 MAR 2024 KIMBERLEY HALL Estate Office, Wymondham, NR18 0RT NORFOLK SUN, 3 MAR 2024 SPROWSTON MANOR Wroxham Road, Norwich, NR7 8RP SUN, 4 FEB 2024 THE MILSOMS Hall Road, Ipswich, IP5 2PU SUFFOLK SUN, 7 JAN 2024 HINTLESHAM HALL Hintlesham, Ipswich, IP8 3NS SUN, 25 FEB 2024 FYNN VALLEY Witnesham, Ipswich, IP6 9JA SUN, 21 APR 2024 RAVENWOOD HALL HOTEL Rougham, Bury St Edmunds, IP30 9JA 12pm-4pm CAMBRIDGESHIRE SUN, 17 MAR 2024 SWYNFORD MANOR London Road, Six Mile Bottom, CB8 0UE
SUN, 21 JAN 2024 SANDON MANOR Sandon Bury Farm, Buntingford, SG9 0QY HERTFORDSHIRE SUN, 14 JAN 2024 MICKLEFIELD HALL Sarratt Road, Sarratt, WD3 6AQ SUN, 25 FEB 2024 AUDLEYS WOOD HOTEL Alton Road, Basingstoke, RG25 2JT HAMPSHIRE 12PM-4PM SUN, 14 APR 2024 RACKLEYS Marlow Road, Cadmore End, HP14 3PP BEDFORDSHIRE SUN, 17 MAR 2024 LUTON HOO Estate Office, Luton Hoo Estate, Luton, LU1 4LF BUCKINGHAMSHIRE SUN, 3 MAR 2024 WARE PRIORY High Street, Ware, SG12 9AL SUN, 18 FEB 2024 RUSHTON HALL Desborough Road, Rushton, NN14 1RR LEICESTERSHIRE SUN, 28 JAN 2024 STAPLEFORD PARK Stapleford, LE14 2EF NORTHAMPTONSHIRE As part of KD Events and Publishing Ltd, County Wedding Events (CWE) is ideally placed to offer you a wealth of experience organising events in the wedding industry. If you would like more information about either holding a wedding show at your venue or exhibiting at any of our shows, please contact us at info@countyweddingevents.com, call 01376 514000 or visit countyweddingevents.com. WORK WITH US
• Free entry • Goody bag for each couple • Up to 200 stands • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Demonstration areas • Competitions • Entertainment • Refreshments • And more... Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL DATE TO BE CONFIRMED | 11AM - 3:00PM MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD High Street, Berkshire, SL5 7JX SUNDAY 7TH APRIL 2024 | 11AM - 3.30PM ASCOT RACECOURSE
Pre-register for all of our events at www.countyweddingevents.com ASCOT RACECOURSE, 7TH APRIL 2024 MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD, 28TH APRIL 2024 X Sarah Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to kickstarting our Spring 2024 wedding show season – perfect for all those couples that got engaged over the Summer period. From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues to our larger Signature Wedding Shows, we can’t wait to welcome nearlyweds to our events and help plan their wedding day. Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof. On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés. Couples will need to pre-register in advance for an allocated arrival time, although on the day visitors are always welcome, and attending our shows are free! For more information, visit County Wedding Events’ website. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events. Sarah Ellis, Sales and Events Director County Wedding Events. Psst! Our pre-registered Signature Wedding Show visitors will have the chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of Spabreaks.com A date for your diary... GREAT EXPECTATIONS
Nestled in the beauty of Shropshire’s rolling countryside, the Apley Estate proudly presents Stockton house, our stunning 18th century grade II listed venue. With it’s stylish Georgian design, walled garden dining room, elegant bar and spacious terrace, it has been lovingly restored with guest comfort in mind. enquiries@stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk 01952 730894 stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk stockton_house STOCKTON HOUSE NORTON SHIFNAL SHROPSHIRE TF11 9EF WHAT’S INCLUDED • Exclusive use of the whole house and grounds including seven luxurious bedrooms • A breath-taking wedding suite • Civil ceremony facilities for both indoor and outdoor weddings • Full use of our walled garden dining room • A complimentary menu tasting with your own personal chef • Breakfast the next day for the happy couple • Tables, chairs and linen laid to your chosen wedding breakfast floor plan • Crockery, cutlery, tableware and glassware • A dedicated wedding planner Your perfect day — AT STOCKTON HOUSE —
Keep it local Exchange vows in and around Derbyshire THE KEDLESTON COUNTRY HOUSE 01332 982 838 | www.kedlestoncountryhouse.co.uk Built in 1762, The Kedleston Country House is a Georgian property designed by renowned architect Robert Adam while he was working on his grandest design: Kedleston Hall. Despite its countryside location, the property is only miles away from Derby City Centre, making it easily accessible for guests travelling from further afield. Set amidst rolling Derbyshire countryside with far-reaching views of neighbouring farmland, The Kedleston Country House has spectacular landscaped gardens perfect for outdoor games in the summer. With elegant interiors and modern touches, the 18th-century Grade II listed house provides a magnificent setting for special events. With its high-set windows and stunning features, the Dining Room is an idyllic, intimate space for ceremonies or wedding breakfasts with 50 people. The high-set windows and traditional features make it an idyllic, intimate area with mostly upcycled vintage furniture. The Orangery is a bright and spacious setting that directly connects to the terrace and gardens, extending the space for guests to enjoy. Boasting beautiful views over the gardens and the Kedleston Estate, The Orangery is a modern and dreamy setting for ceremonies with 70 loved ones and 120 in the evenings. With an adjoining patio and a glass skylight allowing for the most incredible natural lighting, what’s not to love? The five on-site bedrooms are available to book so the nearest and dearest don’t have far to travel after dancing the night away. Nearlyweds who book the property will receive a free menu tasting session. The venue also currently has a special offer for anyone who books their 2024 wedding before 31st December 2023; couples will receive 50 per cent off their venue hire fee. Terms & Conditions apply; contact the wedding coordinator for details: weddings@kedlestoncountryhouse.co.uk. www.thekensingtonphotographer.co.uk www.thekensingtonphotographer.co.uk www.storiesfromeros.com 19 LOCAL VENUES
DARWIN LAKE 01629 735 859 | www.darwinlake.co.uk Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, Darwin Lake is a truly magical wedding venue in Derbyshire. Licenced for civil wedding ceremonies, it’s the perfect place to exchange vows and hold wedding receptions all in one superb wedding venue in Darwin Forest. The exclusive grounds include a private lake, a babbling brook and the charming stone-built Darwin Hall. With its two large function rooms, the Hall’s interior has a classy multifunctional design, allowing pairs to create just the atmosphere and look desired for their special day. The Hall seats up to 130 people on either floor and sits adjacent to the lawns, which can easily support a large marquee. The team now also offers outdoor ceremonies by the stunning lakeside too! Darwin Lake presents a high-quality wedding venue for entire weekend celebrations or midweek one-day weddings to suit all needs. There are 17 quaint, four-star stone cottages with modern interiors that can accommodate groups from 16 to 110 guests. Guests can all relax in the comfort of the beautiful surroundings for the duration of wedding weekends. Complimentary stays are available for newlyweds! Set amongst the rolling hills and pine forests above the Peak District village of Two Dales, Darwin Lake is three miles from Matlock and 25 miles from the M1. DRONFIELD HALL BARN 07931 830 597 | https://dronfieldhallbarn.org Dronfield Hall Barn is a beautiful historical setting in the heart of Dronfield, offering rustic charm and contemporary spaces. The stunning gardens, private courtyard and flexible indoor areas provide the space to relax and enjoy spending time with loved ones. All profits from weddings held at the venue go back into the Dronfield Heritage Trust, an independent charity led by local people working to preserve the property and continue varied events programmes to engage with different community segments. The stunning 1430’s Barn offers the perfect space for ceremonies. The team works closely with Derbyshire registrars to ensure that service runs smoothly and that guests leave with tears in their eyes. For those thinking of a church ceremony, the team would be honoured to welcome lovebirds to the Barn afterwards to celebrate. With an in-house bespoke catering service, in collaboration with The Cricket Inn Sheffield, the staff will work in pairs to create individual menus ranging from la carte dining to hearty pies or street food. The romantic fairy-lit gallery is a beautiful space for guests to enjoy evening receptions. The resident DJ will get everyone up on the dancefloor and is happy to receive requests and playlists from couples. The team also welcomes acoustic musicians and ceilidh bands. www.francesmilburnphotography.co.uk www.francesmilburnphotography.co.uk www.evehopkinsonphotography.co.uk www.evehopkinsonphotography.co.uk 20
Also check out… TISSINGTON HALL Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Peak District National Park, Tissington Hall is truly an unrivalled location with beautiful country views. The historic 17th-century building is a fabulous wedding setting and can be hired exclusively for each event. Francis FitzHerbert built the Grade II listed building, which features an imposing southern approach via a grand gateway and an avenue of lime trees. Couples will fall in love with the gardens stretching more than five acres. Check out: http://tissingtonhall.co.uk STRETTON MANOR BARN Stretton Manor Barn is located on 22 acres of stunning countryside and offers the perfect setting for showstopping weddings. The venue, lovingly built in 2020 exclusively for weddings, provides a secluded and easily accessible location for all to enjoy. The team is on hand to help make the planning process more manageable while ensuring everything goes according to plan at all events – meaning couples can relax knowing their day is in safe hands. Check out: www.strettonmanorbarn.co.uk RINGWOOD HALL HOTEL & SPA Nestled in Chesterfield, Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa is an impressive Georgian manor house set within 19th-century formal gardens. Everything has been lovingly restored to its former glory, from a rolling parkland to a secret woodland area and kitchen garden. The venue’s charming interior features elegant touches, high ceilings, ornate chandeliers and period features. Check out: www.ringwoodhallhotel.com THE RIDING SCHOOL, CALKE ABBEY Set amidst 600 acres of picturesque parkland, The Riding School is an 18th-century manor house that will transport guests to a Bygone era of glamour and elegance. The manicured gardens, flowers and beautiful greenhouses are just some of the scenic highlights on the grounds of this estate. Check out: https://ivyhouseweddings.co.uk https://chrissmithphotos.co.uk https://chrissmithphotos.co.uk https://samdocker.co 21 LOCAL VENUES
WEDDINGS AT PEAK EDGE Nestled on the edge of Derbyshire’s beautiful Peak District National Park, serenity and sophistication come together to create an elegant setting for your special day at the award-winning Peak Edge Hotel. Peak Edge offers all you need to make your perfect country wedding a reality, with stunning grounds, far-reaching views, oak beams, vaulted dining rooms and roaring open fires to set the scene. DARLEY ROAD | STONE EDGE | CHESTERFIELD | DERBYSHIRE | S45 0LW TEL: 01246 566142 WWW.PEAKEDGEHOTEL.CO.UK AA CREATING UNFORGETTABLE WEDDINGS Your love, our passion WEDDING SHOWCASE EVENTS Explore a world of possibilities at our inspirational wedding events! Join us at Peak Edge Hotel for an extraordinary showcase of specialist suppliers and magical moments. Immerse yourself in the ambiance, discover stunning displays, sample delicious dishes, and envision your dream wedding. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity! Visit www.peakedgehotel.co.uk/weddings to learn more and reserve your place.
THE DOWER HOUSE HOTEL 01526 352 588 | www.dowerhousehotel.co.uk Situated in Lincolnshire, The Dower House Hotel is an elegant Edwardian Hotel with the ideal wedding setting. The property creates many photographic backdrops thanks to its beautiful features, including redbrick walls, stunning windows and mock Tudor timbers. Exchange vows outside under the majestic weeping willow at the romantic Folly with 120 people or in the Oak Room with 80 guests under the starlit ceiling. If couples say “I do” in the winter months, the Garden Room can host 30 loved ones who will stay warm thanks to the large open fire. The Private Dining Room can accommodate 12 people for more intimate weddings and is full of Edwardian charm. The staff can transform The Oak Room and The Harden Room to continue the evening celebrations. Or, why not opt for the Seasons, which can host 80? Alternatively, the Orchard Suite can hold up to 120 people for wedding breakfasts and 180 revellers for evening celebrations. The space features beautiful high ceilings and chandeliers that add wow to events. The enthusiastic and friendly staff are always willing to go the extra mile to make events memorable, and the experienced wedding planner will be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly. Couples who book the Elegance or Indulgence Package will receive a complimentary tasting session to help select a menu for their wedding breakfast as well as an overnight stay in the honeymoon suite on their special day. The Indulgence Package also offers two bedrooms the night before the wedding, allowing couples to get ready without rushing. Check out these snowstopping winter venues COLD OUTSIDE www.pmphotography.uk Baby it’s WINTER WONDERLAND VENUES 23
STAPLEFORD PARK HOTEL & SPA 01572 787 016 | www.staplefordpark.com Surrounded by acres of English countryside in Leicestershire, boarding Lincolnshire and Rutland, Stapleford Park creates a charming setting. With maintained gardens, a 5 km nature trail, extensive activities and plenty of wildlife, the surroundings are full of photographic backdrops. Couples will find intimate spaces full of natural lighting and period features inside, with abundant history waiting to be discovered. The Morning & Gilt rooms provide intimacy and affection for ceremonies with up to 30 people. The Orangery offers guests the perfect unification between indoors and outdoors. Elegantly housing up to 150 guests, the space is the ideal location to enjoy the stunning gardens of Stapleford Park while exchanging vows. Alternatively, the Harborough Room is a unique space filled with character and history. The setting can host 25 guests, so pairs are surrounded by luxury, affection and devotion. Plus, it can be transformed for receptions after the “I dos”. The Old Kitchen is full of character, creating the perfect celebration room for celebrations. With a capacity of up to 36 guests, the light and spacious setting is ideal for starting new chapters. For larger events, The Grand Hall is a captivating sight that can comfortably fit up to 200 people when joined with The Orangery. It offers an abundance of natural light, gorgeous views and breathtaking styling. Those who book their wedding here will receive a menu-tasting session with the wedding packages, a night in the bridal suite on their wedding day and a first-anniversary stay. WOODHALL SPA MANOR 01526 352 267 | www.woodhallspamanor.com Woodhall Spa Manor is a multi-award-winning and luxury self-catering venue set in the heart of a beautiful village in Lincolnshire. The manor sits amidst several acres of grounds with well-manicured lawns and an ancient woodland adjoining the Bracken Golf Course. The venue is only available for exclusive use, meaning couples can enjoy weddings privately with loved ones. With four lovely reception rooms, eight individually-styled bedrooms and suites as well as two fully fitted kitchens, what location could be better to celebrate in style? Exchange vows in the Queens Room with 100 people, which features a grand inglenook fire place, crystal chandeliers and a varnished original hardwood floor. Or why not opt for the Britannia Room, surrounded by 60 loved ones? Both spaces feature large sash windows overlooking the lawns as well as a red, gold and cream colour scheme with gold Chiavari chairs. The Sunken Garden can accommodate 200 people in the woodland-canopied setting on the manor’s grounds for outdoor weddings. The space features a white Victorian-style gazebo and a pond with a fountain. Continue the celebrations in the Queens Room with 80 people or in the Britannia Room with up to 50 – both spaces offer multiple layout options. 24
THORNBRIDGE ESTATE 01629 640 617 | www.thornbridgehall.co.uk Thornbridge Hall is a Grade II listed stately home nestled amongst the rolling hills of the Peak District. The Hall and its 14 acres of formal gardens are set within 100 acres of stunning parkland. The team has lovingly restored both to create one of the country’s most exclusive event venues. The Music Room is an ornate space that has been lovingly restored to its earlier state and now has a feel of the Palace of Versailles. The vows can take place with 40 loved ones and 12 for receptions. Alternatively, The Great Hall can host 100 seated guests and 50 upstairs in the gallery for grand celebrations. A Grade II listed temple in front of the Hall with panoramic views of the parkland to Ashford-in-the-Water can be used for the “I dos” with 200 loved ones. Or, pairs can hold ceremonies on the South Lawn Terrace in front of the South Lawn Temple, weather permitting. Wedding receptions can be held in the stunning Carriage House, previously the former stable building. The spacious and bright space features a glass ceiling and access to a pretty outside courtyard with seating and a terrace overlooking the Kitchen Gardens. It’s the perfect blank canvas to add personal finishes for 180 guests to enjoy or 250 with the marquee attached. In the cellars underneath The Carriage House, there’s a secret underground bar where pairs can have their own nightclub for the evenings. The team want the food to be one of the highlights of weddings; their award-winning caterers will create a bespoke menu for couples tailored to their tastes and preferences. They don’t offer set menus, so every wedding breakfast is personalised and expertly prepared using local and seasonal produce. Once bookings are confirmed, lovebirds will be invited for an extensive tasting of several options for each course. It’s a case of whatever they fancy for the evening, from bacon rolls and cheese board tables to hog roasts and fish and chips. www.s6photography.co.uk www.s6photography.co.uk NORWOOD PARK 01636 302 099 | www.norwoodpark.co.uk Norwood Park is a quintessential Georgian country home based in Southwell, Nottinghamshire. The property has a fantastic choice of ceremony and reception spaces for lovebirds looking to tie the knot. The team offers exclusive use of the country house and gardens to help create memorable events. They’ve even styled The Orangery as a private salon with ornate mirrors, two dressing tables, and ample prep space for all brides’ necessities. Exchange vows in The Clock Tower, a timeless Palladian Hall painted entirely in white with oak flooring, large sash windows, a panelled ceiling, oversized mirrors and a sequence of gold chandeliers. Alternatively, The Drawing Room is a stunning example of a contemporary and classic interior design – perfect for up to 80 guests. Family oil paintings dating back more than 350 years sit easily alongside original mirrors and a historic fire place. The Starkey Bandstand is the ideal location to share wedding vows outdoors, surrounded by 150 guests. The space has been designed especially for weddings and is versatile enough to host a live band for outdoor events too. For receptions, The Long Gallery is bathed in natural lighting throughout the day and is blessed with soft, warm light from the magnificent chandeliers when the skies darken. Alternatively, The Clock Tower leads to the fixed marquee, which includes a permanent bar, dancefloor and stage. Several French doors open out onto the private courtyard. Dance the night away underneath the twinkly fairylights on the dancefloor or rest on one of the blue sofas while enjoying cocktails from the bar. The team has a deep-rooted passion for Norwood Park’s history and is honoured to win the national Best Historical Wedding Venue award in The Wedding Industry Awards (TWIA) 2023 – what an achievement! www.estherlouisetriffittphotography.com www.jamesgreenstudio.com 25 WINTER WONDERLAND VENUES
Eleanor and Reece’s elegant wedding at Yeldersley Hall was perfect from start to finish Images courtesy of Portfolio Photographic THE AIR Love is in 26
Eleanor and Reece met on a night out just before the lockdown in 2020 and created a strong bond that grew over the next few years. Reece was attracted to Eleanor’s independence and thought she was the most gorgeous girl. It was love at first sight for them both – how romantic! Reece proposed while walking during the second lockdown in January 2021. Elenor says, “I knew he was going to propose as we had chosen the ring together a few months prior, but he chose when to do it and I had no idea!” SETTING THE SCENE After getting engaged, it was time for the pair to plan their dream day using local suppliers to bring their vision to life. The date was set to September 23rd 2023, with the aim to create a fun day that reflected their personalities. The pair are always bantering and joking around, so the day needed to be laid back. The couple visited a couple of venues one day, but the properties didn’t tick all their boxes in one way or another. As they were driving home, the pair happened to stumble across Yeldersley Hall. After a quick Google search to see if the venue hosts weddings, the lovebirds arranged to view the spaces the next day. Elenor comments, “We just knew it was going to be our wedding venue; we fell more and more in love with the character of the place as we were shown around. It had everything we wanted from a venue, even alpacas! The owner, Andrew, was so helpful and easy to get along with – this helped our decision.” For the wedding breakfast, the pair named the tables after different types of caravans, as they lived in a small one for the first nine months of their relationship. The centrepieces were blush pink vases with flower arrangements on top of a wooden log piece. Reece made almost all of the favours, which included little envelopes with flower seeds in them and packets of sweets with funny play-onwords such as ‘O-fish-ally married’ for fish-shaped sweets, bottles of water with paracetamols as hangover kits and wooden coasters for place names that people could take home. The napkins with fun facts about the couple were a lovely touch to the table settings. To keep guests from going hungry, the lovebirds had a three-course meal with the choice between chorizo and Manchego arancini or Thai crab cakes for starters, sea bass with citrus sauce or beef with bourguignon sauce as mains. Then they enjoyed a trio of desserts with brownie, white chocolate and ginger cheesecake, and lemon tart – yum! The stunning cake was served in the evening, featuring a gorgeous personalised cake topper of the lovebirds that matched their outfits. LOOKING THE PART Elenor wore an ivory dress on her big day. She always knew a fitted plain dress with a small train would be for her and found the one after trying on the fourth gown – leaving the bride in tears. She borrowed a veil with pearls and sparkles from her sister-in-law and wore beautiful pearl jewellery to match. She says, “I just felt like a princess and as soon as I was ready, I just couldn’t wait to show Reece my dress after keeping it a secret for six months – that was hard as I tell Reece everything!” The groomsmen wore grey suits to match Reece, but he wore a yellow rose buttonhole to honour his Nan as it was her favourite flower and a sage green tie that was the bride’s favourite colour. “I thought Reece looked incredibly handsome”, says the bride. She continues, “I felt full of love and happiness as I was getting to marry my best friend that day. Reece said he felt blessed; my dress was everything he had imagined for months. He felt giddy with happiness seeing me.” The flowergirl wore a pretty dress, which was half ivory and half blush to tie the colour scheme together. REAL WEDDINGS 27
Here at Finishing Touches Wedding and Event Hire, we have the passion and style to help you create your dream wedding. We love working with couples like you to help you bring your vision to life. With a huge variety of props available to hire, we can cater for all wedding themes, styles and requirements. From large items such as light up letters and flower arches, to smaller, intricate details including centre pieces, candle sticks and sashes; we have it covered! We offer a free hour consultation to discuss your requirements, so please contact us for more information finishingtouches123@gmail.com | 07518 460694 | @Finishing_touches_wedding_hire Beautiful Natural Wedding Photography across Lincolnshire and the UK at affordable prices www.dannyinwoodphotography.com | 07590 112904 | di.photography@hotmail.com dannyinwoodphotography danny_inwood_photography
TIME TO CELEBRATE A DJ played a few fun games with guests to get the party started; this included a game of Mr & Mrs to give everyone a good laugh and test how well the pair knew each other. There were also a few giant games set outside with giant Jenga, four in a row and croquet – it was a hit with loved ones! A few of the games from the DJ continued the fun evening; many guests had never heard of a few before. The kids and some adults were outside most of the day playing the games; the couple barely saw the children as they had so much fun! MEMORABLE MOMENTS The couple had the best day ever and didn’t stop smiling to the point where their face hurt. Reece loved every second of it; the pair stayed together as much as possible so they had the same memories and had fun together. Eleanor says, “We did a first look, which was a special moment for us right at the beginning of the day. That moment alone before the ceremony, calming each other’s nerves and sharing the excitement that we would be husband and wife in the next hour was amazing! Walking into the marquee for the wedding breakfast and seeing our loved ones so happy for us was lovely too.” A funny moment from the wedding was Reece and his two best men standing in the courtyard in the morning just in their personalised boxers for a photo – it was pretty comical! During the best man’s speech as well, they rolled out a projector and told a story that involved a video of Reece’s naked bum being shown to the whole room! All the suppliers were excellent the whole day, especially the venue owner, who kept the day running smoothly behind the scenes. Andrew took lovely candid photos and videos for the pair to reflect on. The bride comments, “Our photographers were incredible too and captured the day beautifully from start to finish. They worked hard to get us all the shots we requested; one of them was also the baker of our gorgeous cake!” HONEYMOON The lovebirds went to the lake district for four nights to a lovely little lodge they had chosen together. It was in the middle of nowhere, and spending that quality time on their own in that little post-wedding bubble was magical. The bride recalls, “It rained the whole time we were away, so we didn’t do much other than chill in the hot tub. We did go out to a small aquarium and saw the cuttlefish being fed, which was very cool!” REAL WEDDINGS 29
ELEANOR AND REECE’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK Venue, www.yeldersleyhall.co.uk | Photographer, www.portfoliophotographic.co.uk | Bride’s dress, Wed2B | Bridesmaids’ dresses, www.ever-pretty.co.uk | Groom’s suit, Next | Cake, www.redvelvetbakery.co.uk | Catering, https://christhechef.com | Wedding rings, https://aspirejewellery.co.uk | Personalised cake topper, www.artlockedesigns.co.uk | Evening sweet food, www.sweetafayre.co.uk | Caravan photo booth, https://vintage-booth.co.uk | Evening food, www.kkcatering.co.uk 30
NORWOOD PARK WEDDING & EVENTS VENUE To see our upcoming Public events and Wedding Fairs scan the QR Code 01636 302099 www.norwoodpark.co.uk
Romance David and Sophie’s wedding at Skylark Farm featured a beautiful colour scheme Images courtesy of Love Photography 13 Weddings RUSTIC David came back from university and met Sophie, who was working behind the bar in a local pub. A few weeks later, the pair bumped into each other and exchanged numbers – the rest is history! Fast forward time, David popped the question and the couple tied the knot on August 6th 2022. They planned the perfect day full of fun! Here the groom shares details about their special day… 32
Our place names were written in sage green calligraphy and featured a floral design. Guests loved the three-tiered cake, which looked beautiful. The centrepieces featured wooden blocks, floating candles, roses, and blossom trees. Our table plan was made using wooden pallets decorated with vines and flowers. We gave guests key-shaped bottle opener keyrings for favours. We liked Skylark Farm as we could host our ceremony and reception in one location. The beautiful outside area and layout meant everybody could be social on the grass. As the dancefloor was next to the bar, everybody stayed in and around that area. 33 REAL WEDDINGS
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