FASHION, BEAUTY, GROOMS, HONEYMOONS, VENUES AND MORE DEC 2021/JAN 2022 £3.55 WIN! A fun-filled sleepover for eight guests at Whitley Hall, Yorkshire LEADING LADY Trend-led bridal gowns Winter wonderland yourgloswilts.wedding AFTER Romantic real weddings Happily ever KEEPING IT LOCAL Big-day news and offers Magical, snow-capped venues
E N J O Y M O R E . L O V E M O R E . L A U G H M O R E 01452 720293 | life@elmorecourt.com | www.elmorecourt.com Rob Tarren John Barwood Gary Nunn Gary Nunn
REGULARS 4 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Claire 6 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions 9 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs 57 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer big-day advice 90 COMPETITION Win a fun-filled sleepover for eight guests at Whitley Hall, Yorkshire CONTENTS DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022 On the cover Photographer Jade Touron captured our stunning cover image for this issue at the real wedding of Beatrice and Andrew at St Peter & St Paul Blockley. Beatrice wore a dress and accessories from www.posyandpearl.co.uk. Turn to page 18 to read all about it and to book Jade for your wedding, visit https://jadetouronphotography.com 72 VENUES 11 WHAT’S NEW IN THE COTSWOLDS These popular venues in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty all have something new to reveal 15 WALKING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND Magical snow-capped venues for seasonal celebrations 47 FEATURES 43 CREAM OF THE COTSWOLDS This autumn-inspired shoot took place at Lords of the Manor Hotel near Bourton on the Water 47 YOU GLOW, GIRL! This shoot was inspired by the rustic elegance of The Barn at Upcote, decorated with shades that complement the autumn and winter season 51 MAKING MEMORIES Whichever season you’re planning to get married in, these local photographers will inspire you 60 MEMORABLE MOMENTS County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey 62 HANDMADE IN... Gloucestershire and Wiltshire 3
GROOMS 83 GROOMS’ NEWS All the latest news and product launches 84 CHECK PLEASE! Look dashing in this on trend print HONEYMOONS 86 HONEYMOON NEWS UK special 88 ESCAPE TO GREECE Bustling cultural centres or tranquil secluded spots, the choice is yours REAL WEDDINGS 18 A WINTER’S TALE Beatrice and Andrew’s December day was decorated with a red and dark blue colour theme with hints of pink and white 25 AN INTIMATE AFFAIR Debbie and Rory’s late-spring ceremony took place at Bowerchalke Barn in Salisbury 30 A FAMILY AFFAIR Hannah and Simon’s micro wedding at DoubleTree By Hilton Cheltenham followed a navy and sliver colour theme 36 QUEEN OF THE CASTLE Clearwell Castle was the fairytale backdrop for this pink and white-themed wedding 71 43 18 FASHION & BEAUTY 65 FASHION FOCUS Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals her latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches 66 SURPRISE, SURPRISE! Whether you're choosing an engagement ring for a Christmas proposal or shopping for your big-day jewellery, sparkle in these pieces from the latest winter collections 67 DRESS UP Trousers, statement sleeves, sleek A-line silhouettes and voluminous skirts are just some of the styles that brides will be wearing in 2022 72 FASHION Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems 73 NOT ALL WHITE These pastel and champagne gowns prove that you don’t have to wear white 76 PARTY DRESSING We chat to model, television presenter and radio DJ Vogue Williams about her latest venue Vogue X Roco 78 BEAUTY BUZZ Beauty editor Kelly Andrews reveals all the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be 80 FROM THE INSIDE OUT We caught up with owner and founder of Simone Thomas Wellness, Simone herself, to discover how taking care of yourself from the inside out is the ultimate path to wedding wellness 82 NAILED IT! Team CWM put the latest bridal nail polish shades to the test 62 4
From Leigh Court up in the North, down to The Old Milking Parlour in the South, Crowcombe Court in the West all the way across to Wick Farm in the East - we have your perfect venue. There's over 110 to choose from in Somerset & North Somerset to fit every budget and guest list. The hardest part is narrowing down the shortlist! Country Houses? We have them. Farms and barns? We have those too. Castles? We have that covered as well. You want something quirky? How about Wookey Hole Caves, The Grand Pier in Weston or Haynes Motor Museum. Whatever kind of wedding venue you are looking for, our directory is the ONLY one to list every single licensed venue in the district so you won't miss out on any hidden gems. Our ceremony team are all trained, professional celebrants who are passionate about making your legal ceremony the most wonderful, memorable, unique event. Wedding jitters and butterflies? Don't worry - you're in safe hands. Make your booking request online via our website and our team will call you back to chat about availability, answer all your burning questions and make sure your registrar is booked for your special day. Simple! You want to know if you can say your vows outdoors, or have your four legged BFF walk you down the aisle? Our website has a whole host of FAQs that should make everything clearer. Costs, ceremony planning forms, and the allimportant link to book your notice of marriage appointment - it's all there at your fingertips. (And the answer to those questions are "quite possibly yes" and "probably, as long as it's not a tiger or something!!") Say I Do In Somerset www.somersetweddingservice.org.uk Leigh Court - Dominika Scheibinger Crowcombe Court - James & Kerrie Wick Farm - Ryan Goold The Old Milking Parlour
I love this time of year, not only because I’m a magpie who adores anything that sparkles, but because it’s an opportunity for me to create a magazine full of seasonal splendour! This year, I think we’re all looking forward to a special festive period of being reunited with loved ones to eat, drink and be merry now that all restrictions have been lifted. Whether you’re putting the finishing touches to a winter wedding or planning a larger affair for next year, it’s always fun for me to compile our end-of-year issue. I asked some of my favourite wedding photographers in both regions to send me their treasured Christmas wedding images which are revealed on page 51. I have also rounded up a selection of some of the best snow-capped venues in both regions that can be seen on page 15. There’s also bridal jewellery and accessories, dream dresses, big-day beauty and hot honeymoon destinations, along with much more, so I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did creating it, and I’ll see you next year. Until then... Claire x Claire Ridley, Editor Ho, ho, ho! I’ll be enjoying these mince pies this Christmas from Rosebud Preserves of Masham and Two Dales Bakery of Reeth. Turn to page six to read more news from around the region. Merry Xmas! Getting married this season? Then treat yourself to these Christmas tree earrings, £15.95, www.william-may.co.uk Check out our round-up of the most magical snow-capped venues adorned with Christmas trees – this pictures was taken inside Tewkesbury Park on page 15. Our fashion section starting on page 65 is packed full of dream dresses. 6 ISSN 2399-4967 EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 Claire Ridley | Editor clairer@county.wedding Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor, Grooms Editor and Travel Editor Kelly Andrews | Senior Editor and Beauty Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding Graphic Designers | Sarah Hill Stephanie Hodder | Vicky O’Connor Production Assistant | Lorna Butcher Digital Marketing Coordinator Katie Laley Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley ADVERTISING Sales & Events Director Sarah Ellis | 01376 538 490 sarahe@county.wedding Account Managers Ruth Swallow | 01376 538 568 ruths@county.wedding Rebecca Cane | 01376 538 479 rebeccac@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James Your Glos & Wilts Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing. 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 Glos & Wilts Wedding is published six times a year. Subscription rates are £18.20 per annum (incl. p+p). Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing and sent to Your Glos & Wilts Wedding, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. @YourGlosWiltsWedding @CWM_YGWW @cwm_wedding Visit us online at county.wedding and countyweddingevents.com cwe COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS
I was lucky enough to meet model and television presenter Vogue Williams to chat about her collaboration with ROCO Clothing. All is revealed on page 76. We reveal some of the best wedding venues in the Cotswolds on page 11 including the Cotswolds Hotel & Spa. Turn to page 90 to win a fun-filled sleepover for eight guests at Whitley Hall, Yorkshire. Turn to page 83 for fashion ideas for him. Our packed beauty section starts on page 78. Our fashion and beauty experts reveal all on page 72. EDITOR’S LETTER 7
NEWS Nearlywed The latest news from around both counties TOUREASY LAUNCHES FIRST CHRISTMAS TOUR A new Swindon-based sustainable tour operator is offering Christmas trips, perfect for a hen gathering or a pre-wedding break. Toureasy is the UK’s first and only carbon-neutral coach tour operator with 15 pickup points across the region including Chippenham, Gloucester and Cheltenham. Tours start from £70 per person and include a trip to the Christmas markets and a two-day break to Blenheim Palace with its spectacular light display colouring the palace and gardens. The getaways are designed so that customers can do their bit for the planet without paying a premium or needing to sign up for long-term commitments. Holidaymakers will receive a certificate after each trip confirming the carbon offset made on their behalf and reinforcing the positive impact they have made in combatting the global climate crisis. The founder of Toureasy, Sean Taggart tells us, “We realised that far too often sustainable travel options are linked to luxury holidays, with a price tag to match. Our ambition is to offer affordable holidays where everyone that travels with us automatically makes a positive contribution to protecting our planet. Our holidays make that possible and we are proud to be operating some of our first tours from the South West.” To book, visit www.toureasy.co.uk EDITOR LOVES Rosebud Preserves of Masham and Two Dales Bakery of Reeth have collaborated to create the very best quality festive mince pies hand-crafted at the artisan bakery from a sweet, all-butter shortcrust pastry, using organic flour from Shipton Mill in Gloucestershire and free-range eggs from Wensleydale. They are generously filled with Rosebud Preserves’ delicious Almond & Orange Mincemeat and eight pies are presented in an elegant grey gift box with a clear presentation lid (£9.95 per box/400g). Hannah Parnell, baker and owner of Two Dales Bakery, tells us, “We were thrilled to be approached by the team at Rosebud Preserves to discuss a collaboration to make mince pies for Christmas. It was great fun developing the final pastry recipe to complement the delicious flavours of the mincemeat. We bake the pies fresh for each delivery and once they are out of the oven, sprinkle them with just a little sugar, ready for our customers to enjoy.” To shop, visit www.rosebudpreserves.co.uk Congratulations! Helen Browning’s Royal Oak Pub & Rooms located in Bishopstone, Wiltshire, has recently won Inn of the Year as The Good Hotel Guide revealed its 10 César award winners for 2022. It’s the ideal place for a mini-moon in the region, a pre-wedding dinner or an intimate hen night gathering. Owner Helen Browning and the team champion all that is organic with the milk, meat and other ingredients on the menu supplied from the surrounding fields. The characterful pub was previously awarded an OBE for services to farming and is set amid 1,500 acres of farmland in the beautiful Wiltshire Downs. It’s home to 12 stylish bedrooms named after different fields, and farm safaris and wild camping are on offer. To book, visit https://helenbrowningsorganic.co.uk 8
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER VIA OUR WEBSITE. Closing date: 4th February, 2022 unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions apply. Take advantage of these great giveaways Freebies &OFFERS PRETTY IN PINK If you want to wow your guests with something quirky and different at your wedding reception then check out The Pink Drinks Van, a fully licensed and insured mobile bar based in Wiltshire that can travel to weddings in the surrounding areas transported safely inside a large van. This Instaworthy idea has been created from a cute upcycled electric TukTuk (that started life in Thailand). It can be placed outdoors or inside a venue (measuring 1.4 metres wide, it will fit through most double doors). The Pink Drinks Van serves chilled Glera Frizzante sparkling wine and prosecco on tap. Each keg holds 20 litres of fizz which fills around 140 flutes and the team can provide as many kegs as required. There’s also a hire of a Prosecco Wall available, either in addition to The Pink Drinks Van or on its own, that can be styled to suit any wedding theme. It holds up to 54 flutes which can be adjusted for smaller celebrations. In addition to this, there’s a mouth-watering selection of cocktails including The Pink Cocktail freshly made by expert mixologists. A range of props and extras can be rented as part of any package, or on their own, which includes prosecco trees and a drinks trolley. Packages include the Platinum Package with van hire for up to 300 guests, the Gold Package with van hire for up to 250 guests and the Silver Package with van hire for up to 100 guests. Your Glos & Wilts Wedding has teamed up with The Pink Drinks Van to offer readers 5% off when booking a wedding package during January 2022. To take advantage of this exclusive offer, call 07432 628 545 quoting YGWW30 or visit www.thepinkdrinksvan.co.uk Turn to page 65 to read more. Luxury gifting company hampers.com is bringing joy to all occasions. Each of its gift hampers is lovingly curated and handpacked in Oxfordshire, with perfectly paired food and drink from carefully selected makers and producers. The team at hampers.com is giving County Wedding Magazines readers the chance to win a Luxury Food & Wine Basket worth £115. The beautiful wicker basket is packed full of tasty snacks and moreish treats for nearlyweds to share together. The stars of the show are an excellent bottle of Prosecco, and a full-bodied Argentinian Malbec from the Gauchezco Estate, paired with award-winning cheese, hand-baked biscuits, and luxury Belgian chocolates. For your chance to win enter via our website, and for more details about hampers.com and it’s range of delecatble gifts for the wedding day and beyond visit www.hampers.com WIN A LUXURY HAMPER WORTH £115! FREEBIES & OFFERS 9
Homemade, hand poured Soy Wax candles LOV E AND C A R E I N E V E R Y S I NG L E ON E +44 7939 620273 instagram @woko_wicks www.etsy.com/uk/shop/wokowickscandles woko.enterprise76@gmail.com SMA L L T I N ( 4OZ ) Black, Rose Gold, Gold or Silver with cotton wick B E S P OK E F LOR A L T I N ( 4OZ ) Silver with a cotton wick G L A S S J A R ( 6OZ ) with either cotton wick or beautiful crackling wood wick Romantic wedding venues across the UK. View all our destinations at devere.com/weddings WATERPARK.WEDDINGS@DEVERE.COM +44 (0)1285 864000 DEVERE.COM/DEVERECOTSWOLDWATERPARK Our seven unique wedding spaces are fully licensed for civil ceremonies with a choice of suites for both grand and more intimate weddings. Dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows maximize the views of the lake making this a truly unique wedding venue. Delicious wedding breakfasts curated by our Executive Chef, luxury overnight accommodation, and the expertise of our experienced wedding coordinators; we'll ensure every detail is considered to create an unforgettable day. Situated on it's own private lake, De Vere Cotswold Water Park creates an idyllic backdrop for your special day We love a love story
IN THE COTSWOLDS What ’s new These popular venues in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty all have something new to reveal THE CASTLE INN, CASTLE COMBE, WILTSHIRE Castle Combe is a quintessentially English village in North West Wiltshire, often referred to as the prettiest village in England. It’s home to The Castle Inn, a 12th-century destination pub complete with 12 en suite rooms and offering local beverages matched with good, honest pub food that has just appointed talented South West-based chef, Jamie Barnett as head chef. Jamie, who has previously held positions at Lucknam Park and Bowood tells us, “I’m thrilled to have joined the team at The Castle Inn and am excited to create and deliver a menu that pays homage to traditional gastro-dining, using quality local produce from trusted suppliers and delivering each dish with warm hospitality. For me, pub fare isn’t about being fancy, it’s about imparting great cookery and letting the produce speak for itself.” Guests can expect traditional gastro dishes on the menu made with high-quality local produce cooked simply with the menu changing often to adapt to the seasons. Current snacks include home-cured bresaola and Padrón peppers and salt beef croquettes and aioli. Starter choices are twice-baked double-barrelled cheese souffle, the Castle Inn scotch egg and beetroot-cured salmon served with fennel and pickled radish and beetroot. Highlights from the main menu are the castle burger topped with cheese, bacon jam, house pickles and burger sauce served with fries, Wiltshire venison steamed pudding accompanied with wild mushrooms, sticky red cabbage and mashed potato and Cotswold battered catch of the day served with hand-cut chips, mushy peas and tartare reign supreme. The dessert offering includes sticky toffee stout pudding served with vanilla ice cream and white chocolate cheesecake with gingerbread puree and cinnamon ice cream. A selection of cheeses with pear chutney and crackers is also available on request alongside a hand-picked offering of Dalva port. In other news at the property, considerate restoration projects have been carried out throughout the pub to preserve yet enhance the charm of this historic building. Diners can relax at a table in the bar, the central dining room or the outdoor terrace. Those looking to host an event, for example, an intimate wedding dinner, can book one of the inn’s woodenclad private dining spaces, seating between six and 24 guests, with the option to hire the entire property. Upstairs, 12 en suite bedrooms provide a comfortable retreat for guests. Located opposite is its sister property, The Manor House, a luxury hotel and golf club home to the Michelin-starred restaurant, Bybrook, overseen by Rob Potter that’s part of the Exclusive Collection, a family-owned independent collection of hotels and spas, a golf club, cookery school and a pub. Ceremony licence? No Contact: www.exclusive.co.uk/the-castle-inn We love... that the village of Castle Combe is often used as a filming location. REGIONAL VENUES 11
TEWKESBURY PARK, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This stylish hotel and wedding venue is set in 165 acres of parkland overlooking the famous site of the 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury. In 2019, the hotel completed an extensive four-year renovation costing £10 million that saw the addition of nine luxury historic suites, two new spa rooms, two meeting rooms, an Orangery, a Cocktail Lounge and the Cotswolds Suite - a glass façade events suite showcasing magnificent views that’s fully air-conditioned and equipped with a video wall. Just outside, there’s a wood-fired pizza oven and terrace perfect for summer weddings. Accommodating up to 200 wedding guests, the Cotswolds Suite can be subdivided into three equal sections; The Broadway Suite that’s adjacent to the golf putting green; The Burford Suite which is the middle room and The Bibury Suite adjoining the exclusive-use Berkeley Lounge, Bar and Terrace. Spring 2021 saw the completion of a room refurbishment with 17 new outdoor garden terraces created, and four ground-floor guest rooms being fully refurbished to create brand-new terrace rooms. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01684 272 300, www.tewkesburypark.co.uk We love... the décor of the new outdoor garden terrace rooms with the bathrooms boasting bold statement fittings and large mirrors and the bedrooms providing a fresh country-style feel with a modern twist. THE SPEECH HOUSE HOTEL, COLEFORD, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This former 17th-century hunting lodge is set in the heart of the idyllic Royal Forest of Dean combining period charm with modern hotel and purposebuilt wedding venue facilities that are showcased in this new wedding video that the property has released. The manicured garden area provides a much-photographed stag statue for photo opportunities and the hotel borders the 15-acre Speech House field that can be hired for wedding games during the summer months. The Edwin Tauber Suite overlooking the Speech House field and the ancient woodland beyond is a picture-perfect setting for a party. The large bi-fold doors open out on to a covered terrace that leads to the hotel garden and beyond. This spacious and light purpose-built function suite has a bar and reception area offering plenty of space for up to 150 guests seated at dinner and dancing for up to 200 people. The ceremony can take place outdoors under the sheltered terrace with guests looking on while the suite can be laid out traditionally for the wedding breakfast with everyone seated at round tables or, for a more contemporary feel, long rustic banquet tables can be positioned in this flexible space. Alternatively, the historic Verderers’ Court provides a traditional setting for any celebration for between 50 and 70 guests. It’s steeped in history, from the hand-carved chairs to the open fireplace and beamed ceiling. The Carolean Room, named after the era of King Charles II, is ideal for smaller parties of up to 25 guests. This charming room is situated in the main part of the hotel and is decorated in a traditional country house style. The Orangery is a light and airy garden room available to hire exclusively for post-wedding drinks and canapés or as an extra space for the wedding party. It opens out on to a pretty garden and can be hired alongside the Edwin Tauber Suite, Verderers’ Court or The Carolean Room. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01594 822 607, https://thespeechhouse.co.uk We love... the various wedding packages on offer. Interior image courtesy of www.facebook.com/watwweddings and exterior courtesy of https://davidbroadbent.zenfolio.com Scan to view video 12
07854 274202 | angelski tchen@hotmai l .co.uk Contact Ker ry to ar range a consul tat ion and tast ing sess ion Beau t i f u l bespoke wedd i ng cakes wi t h i nc red i b l e a t t en t i on t o eve r y de t a i l NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR 2022 & 2023 Bridal Prom Evening The Old Post Office, 63 High St, Amesbury SP4 7ET Opening Times: Sunday & Monday Closed/By Request Tuesday - Saturday 09:30 - 17:30 Evening and other appointment times available upon request t: 01980 677325 07500 340114 e: hello@cgboutique.co.uk w: www.cgboutique.co.uk @CGBoutique_uk Whatsapp Unique & tailored experience Award winning Boutique Five star rated on Google & Facebook Exclusive use of Boutique Friendly & experienced team CG Boutique-Flyer-Glos&Wilts-v2-FINAL.indd 1 30/09/2021 12
www.stevelewisphoto.co.uk info@stevelewisphoto.co.uk 07779134116 20 The Beeches, Shaw, Melksham, Wiltshire, SN12 8EP We are set in eight acres of glorious Cotswold countryside, including our own orchard, vineyard and vegetable garden. When it comes to hosting bohemian, festival-style weddings, we know exactly what we’re doing. We have years of experience and will work with you to create your perfect day in the most idyllic of settings. Knockdown, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QY www.theholfordarms.co.uk info@theholfordarms.co.uk 01454 238669
Walking in a winter wonderland Magical snow-capped venues for seasonal celebrations FIREFLOWER TIPIS, STOW-ON-THE-WOLD, GLOUCESTERSHIRE (NATIONWIDE HIRE) These magical tipis offer a rustic charm and blank canvas for couples to style as they wish for a winter wedding. During the colder months, the tipis look great dressed with sheepskin rugs and blankets, creating a cosy atmosphere, and doors can be added on along with indoor firepits. The interior looks romantic draped in fairylights and dressed with Christmas decorations. Menu choices to complement a tipi wedding can be anything from fine dining or a grazing table set up inside to outdoor options including a barbecue, wood-fired pizza van, fish and chip van and a mobile horsebox bar. At night, guests can gather around firepits toasting marshmallows and watching a firework grand finale. A selection of tipis and sizes are available to hire to create the right space for each couple’s requirements. A single tipi seats up to 60 guests so the more tipis that are linked together, the more space. There’s the option of adding a snug, catering tent and a separate smaller tipi as a children’s play area – the options are endless. The team also has a large range of furniture for hire including bars, atmospheric lighting and other fun ideas. Ceremony licence? No Contact: 07814 684 424 | http://fireflowertipis.com www.facebook.com/fireflowertipis www.instagram.com/fireflowertipis ❤ We love... that bespoke quotes are provided based on each event. THEMED VENUES 15
CLEARWELL CASTLE, ROYAL FOREST OF DEAN, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This award-winning, exclusive-use venue is nestled in 20 acres of picturesque grounds accessed via a sweeping driveway that is home to a historic Portcullis and a secluded lake that provide a wonderful backdrop for big-day photos. A surprise for guests are donkeys, Molly and Tigger that greet them on arrival! Ceremonies take place inside the castle in the magical Ballroom which is a grand, church-like setting featuring a 75-foot long aisle set under glittering chandeliers, or outside in the Bandstand with the castle as the backdrop. The wedding breakfast also takes place in the Ballroom for up to 150 guests with a wide choice of menus available and the opportunity for couples to create their own. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01594 832 320 | www.clearwell-castle.co.uk www.facebook.com/clearwellcastleweddingvenue www.instagram.com/clearwellcastle ❤ We love… that the team can work with couples on their very own bespoke cocktail. Turn to page 40 to see the real wedding of Jessica and James Wood that took place at the castle! ELMORE COURT, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This exclusive-use wedding venue can be seen in all its glory in this behind-the-scenes drone footage taking potential wedding couples and their guests on a journey exploring the Grade II listed country house, the Gillyflower events ballroom and the rural location - with the final shot taken in the grand ceremonial hall. Recent developments have seen the walled garden that forms part of the estate having been restored to its original use as a working-produce garden with dishes on the menu prepared by head chef Matt Greene and his team using ingredients sourced directly from it. Ceremonies take place in a variety of areas in the main house including in the hall. Dinner and dancing are enjoyed in The Gillyflower, a romantic space that’s draped in fairylights and home to a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. It’s located in a separate building on the grounds and can be styled to suit any wedding theme. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01452 720 293 | www.elmorecourt.com www.facebook.com/elmorecourt www.instagram.com/elmorecourt ❤ We love... the themed events that owner Anselm Guise and the team regularly host. Scam to view video Photography of ceremony room at Clearwell Castle courtesy of www.joelewisphotography.co.uk Image of Gillyflower at Elmore Court courtesy of https://robtarren.co.uk and exterior courtesy of www.fearphotography.com Andrew Lawrence 16
MANOR BY THE LAKE, CHELTENHAM, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This award-winning, exclusive-use country manor house is nestled on seven acres of grounds in the heart of the Cotswold countryside that look magical under a blanket of snow during the winter months. It’s steeped in history and bursting with character with interiors that are well-suited to a Christmas-themed wedding. Bespoke celebrations are what the highly skilled team do best and weddings can take place in a choice of rooms inside the manor including in the beautiful Ballroom, a light, bright space home to a bar, stage and dancefloor that opens out on to the lake and gardens. The Italian Pavilion situated next to the manor house and the Lakeside Pavilion, both framed by the immaculate gardens, make wonderful photographic backdrops for winter weddings. New wedding packages are aimed at smaller, intimate affairs. There’s the Small-But-Perfectly Formed Collection for up to 24 guests and The Love Collection that includes exclusive hire, use of the honeymoon suite and a three-course feast for up to 50 guests with prices starting from £5,000. The two-day Lavish Collection is for those wanting to extend their festivities and spend quality time with their guests with prices starting from £10,000 and there’s also the Winter Wedding Collection, a seasonal offering including mulled wine, mugs of cocoa and woodland decorations in fun festive colours (think fairylights and birch trees against the backdrop of a roaring log fire). The venue is currently offering some great deals on last-minute weddings and those booked to take place in January, February and March 2022. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01242 245 071 | www.manorbythelake.co.uk www.facebook.com/ManorbytheLake.Cheltenham www.instagram.com/manorbythelake ❤ We love... the discount of up to £500 off a wedding for all NHS and military workers. FONTHILL ESTATE, FONTHILL BISHOP, WILTSHIRE The 9,000-acre Fonthill Estate is home to Bake Barn, a lovingly restored shooting lodge perched in a private remote spot in the Wiltshire Downs. It’s one of three venues available for hire on-site that also includes Quarry Wood, a stunning woodland spot where a wedding under a stretch tent can be enjoyed, and Deer Park Barn that’s perfect for micro weddings. The stone and tiled exterior of Bake Barn, along with the pitched central glass doors, gives it an old-fashioned feel and it’s sheltered by a stone perimeter wall creating a courtyard with a part-grass, part-gravel area. The interior boasts exposed beams and rafters, repointed stone walls and a wooden floor. A large fireplace at one end makes it the ideal choice for a winter wedding. Natural light streams through the middle of the building, which features glass doors on both sides, and the Beater’s Loft is a light and airy industrial-style space for couples seeking something a little more contemporary. Ceremonies take place here for up to 80 loved ones and there’s a separate entrance and private staircase for the bride or groom (or both) to enter. The Main Hall can set up to 120 guests for the ceremony and also hosts the wedding breakfast. The covered Loggia situated outside in the pretty courtyard is another ceremony option that’s open on one side. Up to 50 people can be seated undercover here on hay bales or benches with the remainder standing or sitting outside in the courtyard which is also a great spot for a drinks reception. Those wishing to dine al fresco against the uninterrupted views can do this by hiring a marquee to erect on the lawn. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01747 820 246 | www.fonthill.co.uk www.facebook.com/fonthillestate www.instagram.com/fonthillestate ❤ We love...that with no neighbours nearby, there are no curfew and noise restrictions. Interior image of Fonthill Estate courtesy of https://angelawardbrown.com 17 THEMED VENUES
A TALE winters Beatrice and Andrew’s December day was decorated with a red and dark blue colour theme with hints of pink and white Images courtesy of Jade Touron Photography Beatrice Ann Cranke married Andrew Francis Crossley on 23rd December 2020 at St Peter & St Paul Blockley followed by a reception at Cotswold House Hotel & Spa in Chipping Campden. 18
Beatrice and Andrew met on the dating app Bumble and enjoyed their first date in Cheltenham. “We instantly got along and felt very comfortable with each other,” Beatrice tells us. “I could tell that he was a cheerful person which attracted me to him and Andrew tells me that he loved my smile and sense of humour.” The couple became engaged on 24th August 2020. “We had been out for dinner at Gallimores Kitchen in Cheltenham and decided to go for a wander around the Imperial Gardens which is where we had enjoyed our second date,” Beatrice tells us. “Andrew got down on one knee and surprised me with a beautiful ring and those four words!” SETTING THE SCENE The couple chose to have their ceremony at St Peter & St Paul Blockley followed by a reception at Cotswold House Hotel & Spa in Chipping Campden. “I have always wanted to get married in this church because I used to sing in the choir there when I was younger,” Beatrice tells us. Having the choir sing and the organist, Doreen, play at our wedding was like having extended family present. We also knew The Very Reverend Canon Dana Delap well and wanted her to marry us. We giggled throughout the entire ceremony because we were so incredibly happy!” Beatrice arrived at the church, and she and Andrew left as newlyweds, in a 1952 gold and black Bentley Mark VI. “The driver made us a personalised number plate with our wedding date on it which was special,” Beatrice says. For the reception, the couple were only able to invite 15 guests due to the covid restrictions in place at the time. “We needed somewhere that had a small and intimate space,” Beatrice explains. The Fig Room at the hotel was perfect. Beatrice and Andrew styled their winter wedding with a red and dark-blue colour theme with hints of pink and white. “We chose red, white and pink flowers teamed with gypsophila and green eucalyptus for our bouquets and centrepieces,” Beatrice tells us. “We had a multi-picture frame as our table plan that displayed some photos from our engagement shoot (that was also taken by our wedding photographer, Jade) and we named the tables after Australian places with unusual names which proved very entertaining listening to everybody trying to pronounce them correctly! I made white heart-shaped Christmas tree decorations as our place names that featured our new married name and wedding date on the back. Our favours were small boxes filled with Australian sweets, a single red rose and a small bottle of hand sanitiser with a label saying spread love, not germs.” On the menu were a choice of canapés including crayfish tails with caviar Marie rose sauce, peppered duck breast with apple compote and thinly sliced pork fillet with basil pesto. The starter was smoked duck breast, fennel carpaccio and pickled radishes with truffled brioche snippets while the main course was a rib eye of beef served with sweet potato fondant, creamed spinach and celeriac with a burgundy jus. “We enjoyed raspberry mousse, burnt meringue and macaroons for dessert,” Beatrice says. “I made a classic three-tier cake with my mother. I created a gluten-free lemon and orange drizzle cake as the middle tier and she made the fruit cakes for the top and bottom tiers that all tasted delicious.” REAL WEDDINGS 19
We are all about weddings with personality, individualism, theatrics and creativity. With 11 individually designed bedrooms, and quirky spaces that can host parties of 15 up to 150 guests, Weddings at the House enables couples to design a day that is authentically them, all under one fabulously stylish roof. 01285 648230 | info@inglesidehouse.co.uk inglesidehouse.co.uk Weddings at the House A unique experience for unique couples, seeking something different from the norm. Love comes in many forms, which is why we don’t offer impersonal packages for one of the most personal days of your life.
LOOKING THE PART Beatrice chose her dress because she felt like a bride when she first tried it on. “I knew that I wanted it to have detailed embroidery on the bodice which cascaded down the skirt,” she tells us. “I loved the design on my dress that looked like eucalyptus leaves - I instantly fell in love with it. Donna, the owner of Posy & Pearl Bridal Boutique where I bought it makes bespoke hair accessories so I was able to design my own piece with her. I decided on a long hair vine with a cluster of pearl flowers and a couple of small pins for each of my bridesmaids which looked so pretty. Donna also gifted me a beautiful blue ribbon garter for my something blue.” Beatrice teamed her dress with a pearl, white gold and diamond drop pendant necklace and earrings. “I also borrowed a silver and moonstone bracelet from my mother and my father put a silver sixpence in my shoe!” Andrew chose a blue herringbone check suit teamed with a tan-coloured check waistcoat featuring a burgundy paisley pattern on the back to match the colour of the bridesmaids’ dresses and a pair of chestnut-brown brogues. “His suit was a lighter shade of blue than the best man and my father’s so that he stood out but they all wore matching waistcoats,” Beatrice says. Our bridesmaids looked stunning in their burgundy Bardot-style midi dresses which they teamed with a tan faux-fur bolero shawl to keep warm.” TIME TO ENTERTAIN The couple wanted to hire a band but as they weren’t able to have a large reception, they’re saving that until a reception party in 2022. “We entertained our guests with a game of wedding speech bingo with boxes of chocolates as the prizes!” Beatrice tells us. “Andrew’s parents Megan and Ron, his best friend Danny in Australia (who would’ve been our best man) and my sister Vanessa and her family in Sweden all recorded video speeches which we played during the reception. Although they couldn’t be there in person, it was so special to have them as part of the day. We also enjoyed the first dance to Stand by Me by Ben E. King, a song that we had danced to on our very first date. My friend’s mum is a choreographer who gave us a socially distanced lesson in the garden two days before! Needless to say the lack of space, the size of my dress and Andrew’s lack of coordination did not bode well but it was a beautiful moment for us and we didn’t care!” REAL WEDDINGS 21
THE DREAM TEAM Photographer, Jade Touron Photography, https://jadetouronphotography.com | Ceremony, St Peter & St Paul Blockley, https://blockleychurch.org.uk | Reception venue and catering, Cotswold House Hotel & Spa, 01386 840 330, www.cotswoldhouse.com/weddings | Bride’s dress and accessories, Posy & Pearl Bridal Boutique, 01285 656 994, www.posyandpearl.co.uk Bride’s jewellery, The Goldsmithy, 01386 853 297, www.goldsmithy.co.uk | Nails, Jodi Brooks Beauty & Cosmetics, 01242 603 200, https://jodibrooksbeauty.co.uk | Suits, Country Master, 01451 798 241, www.countrymaster.co.uk | Waistcoats, Ted Baker | Brogues, Loake Shoemakers | Hair, Muse Hair & Beauty, 01386 853 252, https://musehairandbeauty.com | Flowers, Abbie Digweed, Your Cotswold Florist, 07875 814 769, http://yourcotswoldflorist.co.uk | Cake, Honey Bea’s Cafe, 01242 352 392, www.instagram.com/honeybeascafe “Half the village of Blockley and other family friends surprised us by gathering outside the church.They waved and shouted as I arrived (I felt like royalty!) They even stood outside in the rain during the service and cheered us both as we exited the church as husband and wife.We had arranged mulled wine to be served in the churchyard because we knew that a couple of people might turn up but we had no idea there would be so many (all socially distanced). It was incredibly special, we felt so much love and support from them.We know that if this had been a restriction-free wedding, they would’ve all been inside the church with us.” – Beatrice 22
UN I QU E AND S T UNN I NG T I P I H I R E for weddings and events in the Cotswolds and throughout the UK. WWW. F I R E F LOWE R T I P I S . COM Hello@fireflowertipis.com | 07814684424 18 CASTLE STREET, CIRENCESTER, GLOS, GL7 1QH 01285656994 | 07709244470 donna@posyandpearl.co.uk | www.posyandpearl.co.uk Amore Prosecco is one man’s dream to serve you one of the finest Italian Prosecco and Frizzante Sparkling Wine in a classic Italian style www.amoreprosecco.co.uk 07753 342 777 | johnormshaw@hotmail.co.uk Paolo the Prosecco Van is an Innocenti Lambro, manufactured in Milan in 1963. He has being lovingly restored into a mobile Prosecco and cocktail bar. Paolo is very cute and being 9ft long, 5ft wide, and under 6ft high, we can squeeze him into the smallest of places inside or out. He now resides in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside and is ready to travel near and far to serve you at your Wedding. Or why not hire our very cool and unique Bubble Barrel Bar? Don’t be fooled by its size this baby packs a punch, serving up 160 drinks per 20L keg.
WEDDING CAR - G L O U C E S T E R S H I R E - Immaculate Rolls Royce Silver Spur available to hire W E D D I N G S • P R O M S S P E C I A L O C C A S I O N S Featuring blue leather interior. Price includes a bottle of Champagne for the happy couple and decorative flowers of your choice to match your theme Call Carl on 07886 930 923 or 01594 530 835 - Email prospect_cottage@tiscali.co.uk www. facebook.com/bluebel l2468 Mi l bury Morr i s Minor s Looking for vintage chic, glamour and style? The Morris Minor brings smiles at every turn, great photo opportunities, romantic and fun. Perfect for your English Country or City wedding in The Cotswolds, Bath, Bristol, Gloucestershire and North Somerset. Milbury Morris Minors is a family business, we are passionate about these beautiful vintage cars, who have been part of our family for many years. We offer a friendly, professional wedding service, sharing our love of these fun cars with you on your special day. www.milburymorrisminors.com
AN AFFAIR intimate Debbie and Rory’s late-spring ceremony took place at Bowerchalke Barn in Salisbury Images courtesy of Michael O’Sullivan Photography Debbie and Rory met when he regularly walked past the hair salon where she worked. “He would glance in and smile at me!” Debbie tells us. “It turned out we had some mutual friends and one of them, Luke, introduced us so it was only right that he was the best man at our wedding! Our first date was to the Bath Christmas Market and the rest is history.” Rory adds, “I was attracted to Debbie’s gorgeous smile, stunning figure and the fact that she was playing hard to get!” Debbie says, “Without sounding too cliché, Rory is tall, dark and handsome with a soft Scottish accent which was hard to resist!” The couple became engaged during a weekend away in Amsterdam. “I had no idea that he was planning on asking me to marry him,” Debbie says. Rory adds, “I was extremely nervous the day before asking her. We explored the city and on our return to the hotel, enjoyed champagne in our room. Debbie is quite a private person so I was aware that asking her to marry me in a restaurant or bar would be quite overwhelming for her so I proposed in the comfort of the room. I was lucky enough to be given my grandmother’s 1920s diamond ring which I knew she wouldn’t be able to resist!” Here, the couple describe their celebration at Bowerchalke Barn decorated with rustic touches and seasonal flowers in vintage pink shades. Debbie Davidson and Rory Clark married on 22nd May 2021 at Bowerchalke Barn in Salisbury followed by dinner and an evening reception at The Chapter House. REAL WEDDINGS 25
Our wedding was a very intimate affair and the perfect day after having to postpone our original date twice. We had to halve our guest list due to the pandemic but we were determined to go ahead. Seeing Debbie arriving at the barn and hearing Highland Cathedral played on the bagpipes just before she walked down the aisle was a very moving moment for me. Knowing how beautiful the Chalke Valley is, and with Rory coming from a farming background, we both instantly fell in love with Bowerchalke Barn on our first visit. We knew that it would make the pe rfect setting for us to exchange our vows surrounded by our loved ones. Getting married during May meant that the sun was shining and the fields looked golden so the journey to the barn from Salisbury was magical. 26
After the ceremony we spent the afternoon mingling with our guests, enjoying the champagne and canapés. We wanted to keep our theme natural and simple using only seasonal flowers that complemented our venue and the surrounding countryside. We decided on vintage pink-coloured blooms teamed with plenty o f natural foliage. The barn was looked so beautiful so it didn’t need much styl ing. We had the best man playing a piece of music that he had written for us while we signed the registrar and a reading given by our friend Lou called Love Monkey by Edward Monkton that was very meaningful. The music that Debbie had chosen to walk down the aisle to was a song by an artist called Maisie Peters which was beautiful an d on seeing her for the first time, I knew I had made the right decision asking her to marry me! Marrying Debbie was the easy bit but knowing that I had to stand up and deliver a speech was always at the back of my mind because I’m not a confident public speaker. Thankfully, one of our guests and Debbie’s maid-of-honour, Michelle is a life coach so just before I gave my speech, she encouraged me to breathe slowly and deeply! REAL WEDDINGS 27
I loved my dress that was quite traditional teamed with a pair of strappy sandals and my beautiful bridal bouquet. After the ceremony and drinks reception, we left Bowerchalke Barn to head to The Chapter House for our evening meal and reception. We were driven in style in Rory’s godfather’s vintage Rolls-Royce which was a surprise! Our theme worked so well with the men’s green tweed suits, Rory’s kilt and our bridesmaids’ dresses - they all looked fantastic! THE DREAM TEAM Photography, Michael O’Sullivan Photography, 07948 617 431, www.mosullivanphotography.com | Ceremony venue, Bowerchalke Barn, 01722 433 893, https://bowerchalkebarn.com | Dinner and evening reception, The Chapter House, 01722 341 277, http://thechapterhouseuk.com | Florist, Pod & Pip, 07766 775 869, www.podandpip.co.uk | Canapés, Michael Fox Fisherton Mill, 01722 500 200, https://fishertonmill.co.uk | Jewellery and bridal accessories, Victoria Fergusson Accessories, 01722 716 890, www.victoriafergusson.co.uk | Dress, Bride by Design, 01985 217 216, https://bridebydesign.biz | Hand-written invitations, table settings and stationery, Blue Pumpkin Studio, 07921 228 956, www.bluepumpkinstudio.co.uk | Guest transport, Trollope Transport, 01722 333 827, www.trollopetransport.co.uk | Wedding event stylist, Love With Letters, 07447 912 448, www.lovewithletters.co.uk | Hair and make-up, Yasemin Bilgic hair and make up, www.instagram.com/yaseminbilgichairandmakeup The speeches were given throughout the day and fe lt extra-special because it was the first time that we could all be together after the restrictions had eased. We had some couple portraits taken in the sunshine that looked spectacular. 28
WWW. FARRAR - TANNER .CO. UK Personalised Wedding Gifts Memo rab l e presen t s fo r br i de and groom • Super Sensational Skid Courses • Muddy Marvellous 4x4 adventure • Adrenaline fuelled karting for adults 15+ STAG & HEN PARTIES at Castle Combe Circuit HenParties Hens and Stags go FREE! A fantastic day out to remember! ENQUI RE NOW ON 01249 783010 OR V I S I T www.drivetechltd.co.uk SkidControl 4x4 StagParties Karting Bowerchalke Barn is a timeless 16th century thatched threshing barn, set in the stunning Chalke Valley countryside and only 10 miles from the medieval market city of Salisbury. The Barn offers a unique and enchanting setting for your wedding or event, where you have exclusive use of the barn and grounds for your guest to relax and enjoy the day. For more information and pricing do contact the Bowerchalke Barn team. Bowerchalke Barn, Knowle Farm, Bowerchalke, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP5 5BP T: 01722 433 893 | E: enquiries@bowerchalkebarn.com | W: www.bowerchalkebarn.com GET IN TOUCH TODAY!
A AFFAIR family Hannah and Simon’s micro wedding at DoubleTree By Hilton Cheltenham followed a navy and silver colour theme Images courtesy of Aimee Thomas Photography Hannah Amor married Simon Legg on Saturday 22nd May 2021 at DoubleTree By Hilton Cheltenham. 30
Hannah and Simon met when they both worked in The Bakers Arms country pub in Cirencester. “Simon was the head chef and I was a waitress,” Hannah tell us. “He was so kind and calm and he tells me now that it was my eyes and smile that he fell for.” The couple became engaged on Christmas Day in 2018. “Simon proposed to me at his mum and dad’s house while the family were exchanging presents,” Hannah says. “Simon’s mum was handing out the gifts and he had asked her to save mine until last. As I opened it, Simon presented me with a card saying ‘Happy Christmas to my Fiancee’ before getting down on one knee with a ring box in his hand and asking me to marry him. I was in shock and disbelief and I started crying happy tears! He explained that he had asked my dad’s permission which was a big deal for me because my dad is fighting cancer so it gave him something to look forward to. We set a date for the wedding hoping that my dad would be well enough to attend and walk me down the aisle, which he did.” SETTING THE SCENE Hannah and Simon chose the DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham as their venue because it was a hotel that they regularly visited. “The gardens are beautiful and the staff are very friendly,” Hannah tells us. “We had booked a wedding package allowing 80 guests to attend during the day and 100 in the evening but because of the restrictions in place at the time of our wedding, we could only invite 30 guests for the entire day. Everybody needed to wear a face covering apart from myself, Simon and my dad but this didn’t bother us because it was amazing to have my dad and our close family and friends around us.” Hannah stayed at the hotel with her mum, sister and bridesmaid the night before the wedding. “The morning was so busy spent getting ready that the nerves didn’t kick in until I was dressed and about to meet my dad and stepdad,” she tells us. “Our amazing photographer, Aimee, got me to hide in the bathroom and as I came out and they turned to see me for the first time, I just started to cry and the nerves kicked in. Seeing their reactions was an amazing moment that I’ll never forget.” Hannah’s maid-of-honour Kelly, who is also her sister, did a fantastic job and nothing was too much trouble. “If my veil was out of place she was there to fix it, if my make-up needed touching up she did it, she was amazing, Hannah tells us. “She gave a surprise speech that had me in tears and our guests laughing. I really couldn’t have done it without her, she was my rock. I love her to bits and am so proud to be able to call her my sister.” The couple kept their table plan simple with everyone seated at two round tables and a long rectangular top table. “My mum made our centrepieces using Whitley Neil gin bottles that she had been collecting especially. She filled them with fairylights and placed them on mirrored plates. She also got silver and navy balloons to place in the middle of the round tables and at the ends of the top table. It looked simple yet beautiful, I really can’t thank her enough for all the help and support she gave us.” REAL WEDDINGS 31
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