Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding - Nov/Dec 2019 (Issue 77)

FOODIE HEAVEN New Forest wedding venue The Montagu Arms has introduced a spectacular new gourmet wedding package. Set in the picturesque village of Beaulieu, the romantic 17 th -century country manor house venue is a sumptuous setting for weddings with first-class dining to match. The new package features a bespoke seven-course signature tasting menu created by head chef Matthew Whitfield, who previously worked at the renowned three Michelin star Eleven Madison Park in New York. Using fresh local ingredients from the New Forest and his own kitchen garden, dishes include a choice of starters, delicious main courses and puddings. The package is for 24 people and also includes private use of the Oakwood Room for the ceremony and wedding breakfast, access to the beautiful gardens, a Hayloft Garden Suite for the wedding night, a signature cocktail designed specifically for your big day and a host of other details to cater for all your wedding needs. For more information visit montaguarmshotel.co.uk GOING FOR GOLD Independent jeweller Burrells has announced double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes as its new brand ambassador. One of the UK’s national treasures, Dame Kelly won gold in both the 800m and 1500m at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, the first Briton in 84 years to do so. She’s now backing the family-run Burrell business and was guest of honour at their store in Winchester High Street, one of four across the UK, for a special customer event to celebrate her appointment. Burrells CEO Edward Ferris said, “We’re thrilled that Dame Kelly has agreed to join Burrells as a brand ambassador. She is the perfect fit for our company, we so admire all she has achieved throughout her career and I am excited to have the chance to work with her.” Dame Kelly commented, “As a customer and as a partner, I believe in family-run businesses. They’re driven to keep improving, which is the life I’ve always led. Our values definitely align, and I am looking forward to the opportunities this partnership will create.” She takes up her role alongside Southampton Football Club legend Francis Benali. Recently named Watch Retailer of the Year at the UK Retailer Jewellery Awards 2019, the company’s head office is based just outside Winchester. For further information visit burrells.co.uk Dame Kelly with the Winchester Burrells team SNEAK PEEK You saw it here first! Designer Katrina Rigby of Forget-me-not Designs in Ryde on the Isle of Wight shares a teaser of what to expect from their new Head Over Heels 2020 collection. “Our design focus is very much on clean lines for the modern woman with simple shapes cut beautifully to fit the body. Plain fabrics like crepe, mikado and chiffon are prominent with a little sparkle for a touch of glamour,” she reveals. Coco (pictured) is a fabulous fitted dress with a bateau neckline and just a hint of lace from the front on the sleeve, and a translucent lace back. Other designs feature full skirts, pockets and a soft, easy-to-wear boho vibe. Visit forgetmenotdesigns.co.uk Images: jodihinds.com 10