Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding - Mar/Apr 2019 (Issue 73)

HOTSPOT FOR MINI-MOONERS Looking for a post-wedding getaway close to home? The new St Helens Coastal resort on the Isle of Wight launches in May this year. Secluded and spacious it’s just a short stroll away from The Duver beach and also has access to the golden sand at Priory Bay, rated one of the best beaches in the UK. The resort includes a collection of modern, luxury lodges, a swimming pool and a licensed eatery, ideal for couples looking for a relaxing mini-moon. The sophisticated two-bedroom superior lodges have hot tubs; great for unwinding after a day exploring the island. With stylish interiors, open-plan living spaces and patio doors leading on to a sun terrace, you can chill out on a summer evening, glass of fizz in hand. A luxury home-from-home, there’s a well-equipped kitchen for cosy nights in. The light and airy three-bedroom premium lodges also have roof terraces so you can soak up the sea views. Visit ariaresorts.co.uk Editor loves... Dogs dressed in their big-day best are frequently seen at weddings these days, but what about your other four-legged friends? If you’re thinking of taking your horse along, don’t forget to turn them out in style too for some standout photos. This fab floral garland was created for Flick the mare by Hampshire-based Lesley Johnston of Velvet & Broon Classical Flowers (velvetbroonclassicalflower.com ) using dahlias, zinnias, mixed sunflowers, twice in a blue moon roses and amaranthus supplied by West End Flower Farm, Upper Froyle (westendflowerfarm.co.uk) . All the latest from around the region NEW OWNERS One of Southampton’s best-known wedding venues is under new ownership. Jurys Inn and Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland has unveiled its latest acquisition, Leonardo Royal Hotel Southampton Grand Harbour. Formerly known as the Grand Harbour Hotel, it was originally opened in 1994. Located in the city centre, the waterfront four-star venue has 173 rooms and suites as well as the city’s only Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill. The Mayflower function room, renowned as Southampton’s biggest event space, holds up to 500 people. With the hotel’s eye-catching glass pyramid entrance, it’s a standout venue with a range of wedding spaces and packages available to suit a host of big-day needs. New for 2019, The Spa is also relaunching with new packages and products for guests to enjoy from luxury French beauty brand Caudalie; perfect for pre- or post-wedding pampering. The hotel also boasts a leisure centre, home to the largest swimming pool in the city centre. Visit  leonardohotels.co.uk Nearlywed NEWS Change of address Hampshire-based Davina’s ladies’ fashion boutique has a new home. The business has moved from Fareham to premises in Davina’s home village of Warsash. The new shop has three large airy showrooms, three changing rooms and offers a large selection of mother-of-the-bride and -groom outfits, including leading labels such as Condici, John Charles and Veni Infantino. The ideal one-stop shop; matching hats, hatinators and fascinators are also available as well as shoes and handbags to complete the look. With special occasionwear and eveningwear too, there’s a world of choice. Visit davinasladiesfashion.co.uk YOUR ESSENTIALS 9