Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - January/February 2025 (Issue 108)

FURRY FRIENDS Everyone loves a good wedding, but great weddings are remembered for years. My journey began as an eight-yearold flowergirl in a sunflower dress and has evolved to my recent marriage celebrations. Over the years, tastes and styles have changed, especially in the digital age. Some couples prefer no posting at their wedding, while others encourage it. Either way, sharing images is part of the fun. One unique idea is having alpacas at your wedding, which is becoming increasingly popular. If you have yet to see an alpaca, go google them! These gentle animals can make your wedding a fantastic experience and are extremely Instagrammable. Incorporating unique elements like alpacas shows your personality and creativity, making the wedding reflect who you are as a couple. The planning is all part of the journey and a perfect opportunity to create a wedding that will evoke memories for years to come. For 2025, several wedding trends align perfectly with our offerings, these include: •Eco-friendly weddings: Alpacas fit seamlessly into eco-friendly themes. •Intimate gatherings: The animals add a personal touch to smaller celebrations. •Unique entertainment: We provide fun and engaging entertainment for all ages. •Vintage and whimsical themes: Our furry friends complement these themes beautifully. Claire Turner | Grainmarket Alpacas www.grainmarketalpacas.co.uk SETTING THE SCENE Bournemouth, with its stunning coastline and picturesque venues, continues to lead the way in wedding trends for 2025. Couples increasingly embrace more intimate celebrations, with micro-weddings and elopements gaining popularity. These smaller gatherings allow for a greater focus on personal touches, such as bespoke menus and interactive entertainment. Outdoor ceremonies, particularly those with breathtaking sea views, remain a top choice, making Bournemouth’s sandy beaches and scenic cliffs the perfect backdrop. Sustainability is another key focus for 2025 weddings. From ecofriendly decorations to locally sourced catering, couples make choices that reflect their values. Bournemouth’s wealth of talented local suppliers makes it easy to create a greener celebration. Unique, flexible venues are also in demand, with couples seeking spaces that balance style and practicality. Enter Key West Bar & Grill at the end of Bournemouth Pier, a truly standout venue for 2025 weddings. We offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Dorset coastline, setting the stage for romantic seaside celebrations. Whether you envision a sun-drenched summer wedding or a cosy winter gathering, the versatile space can be tailored to your needs. Its indoor and outdoor seating options allow couples to embrace the elements while ensuring comfort. James Balcazar | Key West Bar & Grill https://keywestbournemouth.co.uk https://thefalkenburgs.co.uk 82

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