Your Herts & Beds Wedding - Jun/Jul 2019 (Issue 74)

ROMANTIC STYLE I’m not sure what style of dress to choose for our August nuptials. What styles and fabrics should I consider that’ll keep me cool if it’s a warm day? Cathy says: A summer wedding opens up so many options for the perfect dress. Floaty chiffon, lightweight tulle, beautiful lace or a soft A-line gown will keep you cool and comfortable. An open back’s ideal but if you want to cover up, a light illusion back with some delicate detail is the answer – it’s still sexy but covered. If you’re looking for a fitted dress, you can opt for the more relaxed design with a statement soft tulle overskirt. Sleeves can still be on the wish list too in a lightweight fabric or opt for the more boho look with crochet.   Meet the expert… Cathy Smyth | Bridal boutique owner katejosephbridal.co.uk Cathy loves meeting brides-to-be and helping them find their perfect dress at her boutique, Kate Joseph Bridal in Bedford where a personal service awaits. SWEET TREAT Chocolate cake’s my favourite but I’m worried that it’ll be too rich for a sunny day. How can I incorporate it into our bake whilst keeping it light? Susan says: Instead of a full-on rich chocolate cake maybe consider a lighter variation such as cookies and cream? This can be lovely made with vanilla sponge and a cookies and cream buttercream. Alternatively, you could switch to white chocolate. Matched with raspberry jam and pistachio this makes a decadent variation of the classic Victoria sponge.  If you’re worried about the chocolate melting then speak to your cake maker about ganache. Made with tempered chocolate and cream, it can be used to encase the cake with a firm layer of chocolate underneath sugar icing that really helps in humid conditions. No cakes should be left for long periods in hot conditions. Be sure to discuss this with your pro who’ll advise when the showstopper should be delivered and where it can be displayed to keep it in optimum condition.  Meet the expert… Susan Halil | Cake expert | cakesofgoodtaste.co.uk Susan’s background in sugar sculpture helps her to inject creative flair into the design process and create cakes that are personal, beautiful and delicious! COLOUR POP I usually opt for natural eye make-up but what brighter shades would you suggest for my bridal look? Jo says: Adding colour can be daunting but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Opt for a shimmer eyeshadow across the lid like Bobbi Brown Shimmer Wash Eyeshadow in Bone, and then sweep a rich eyeliner across the upper lashline. You can play it safe with a warming bronze such as ELF Studio Cream eyeliner in copper or if you’re feeling more daring, team it up with a purple like Charlotte Tilbury Rock N Kohl liner in Elizabeth Violet.  Use the Urban Decay Palette in Heat to really kick-start your eye make-up, an intense black kohl liner, not forgetting to do the waterline too and finish with lashings of mascara.  Here’s a guide for what shades suit different eye colours: ❤ Blue – Navy, copper, champagne, gold, bronze and rust tones ❤ Green – Plum, purple, copper and bronze ❤ Hazel – Emerald, berry tones and metallic pink ❤ Brown – Choose any shade and be adventurous Meet the expert… Jo Saville | Make-up artist | josaville.com Jo’s job is her absolute passion. She loves working with people to make them feel their most beautiful and seeing the happiness when people love their look. 108