Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - September/October 2020 (Issue 82)

RAZZLE DAZZLE ’EM Bright spark Charlotte Cornelius has launched a dazzling new Diamond Lagoon collection. Specialists in engagement and wedding rings, the latest line is sure to raise a smile for anyone on the hunt for some big-day sparkle. Featuring fine white diamonds and clear blue free-form aquamarines, the pieces drip elegance and feminine glamour. Renown for her handmade jewellery, designed to reflect the wearer’s individuality and personality, her ready-to-wear designer collections are inspired by nature and the coastal surroundings of her studio in the heart of Southsea. Visit www.charlottecornelius.co.uk Dorset’s new celebrant duo Dorset dream team Laura Bell and Lou Brown have joined forces to launch Fox & Star Ceremonies providing a range of bespoke celebrant-led services. Laura started out offering baby-naming ceremonies, after wanting to have one for her own son. “I just didn’t know where to start though, when I had him three years ago,” she explains. “After taking a couple of bookings for naming ceremonies, I approached Lou about joining Fox & Star and launching into weddings. Now we already have enquiries coming in for next year and 2022, which is an amazing position to be in.” The enterprising pair are both certified celebrants and trained independently with the Academy of Modern Celebrancy and Fellowship of Professional Celebrants. Lou adds, “When Laura asked me I didn’t have any reservations about working alongside her, as this is something we’ve already done so well in the past.” To celebrate the launch they’re offering the chance to win a silver naming ceremony or the equivalent value towards a wedding blessing or vow renewal silver or gold package. For details visit www.foxandstarceremonies.co.uk 20 YEARS YOUNG Happy birthday to Gems Bridal Wear in Newport, Isle of Wight. The business celebrated its milestone 20 th anniversary in August with a raft of events including the chance to win a dream wedding dress. As well as one lucky winner, everyone got to share the joy with a one-off special offer for all those who got involved. The celebrations also included an open week for brides-to-be to meet the bridal team, including their new in-house seamstress Tara, goodie bags and a raffle, with all proceeds going to The Mountbatten Hospice. The luxury boutique offers a wide selection of top designer wedding gowns, including Maggie Sottero, Romantica, True Bride and, new in, the luxurious Morilee collection as well a Curvaceous Couture range for sizes 18 to 32. “Gems really does cater for all brides, as well as bridesmaids with all the accessories to complete the perfect look,” says manager Kayla Colenutt. Visit www.gemsbridalwear.co.uk fo r further details and appointments. CHIN, CHIN Newcomer to the local wedding scene Southampton-based Tin & Tonic is going down a storm with its bespoke horsebox bar. Founder Jo Hudson set up the mobile drinks bar for weddings, parties and events, specialising in locally sourced gin served with premium tonics and garnishes, signature proseccos and artisan Somerset cider.  Jo says, “As lockdown has eased and small weddings are allowed we’ve seen huge demand for our 1982 Rice Beaufort horsebox which has been lovingly restored and converted. Our range of speciality spirits, cocktails and mocktails, as well as family-produced Old Jollop cider, will turn even the smallest gathering of friends into a very special celebration.” What’s more as an end of summer special, there’s a half-price offer running on bookings for all events during September and October 2020, T&Cs apply. Visit www.tinandtonic.co.uk 10