MAY/JUN 2022 £3.55 www.yourkent.wedding HONEYMOONS, BEAUTY, FASHION, GROOMS, EXPERT ADVICE, FREEBIES AND MORE WIN! A necklace worth £1,100 Jewellery ideas to suit your budget Oh, go on then! Bridal fashion inspired by the icon herself Wedding cake trends to look out for Where TO WED in Bromley, Bexley & Dartford Spend, splash, splurge BARBIE GIRL
At Pop Up Arcade we deliver our gaming equipment at weddings, corporate events, birthdays and many more events. We can set up almost anywhere as long as we have a power source. We have our own tents if you have an outdoor area, or we can set up inside if you have the indoor space. We provide the consoles, games, controllers, screens and seating! We have set packages for up to 5, 10, 15 or 20 people to be entertained at any one time. However, if you have more than this then we can make a custom package just for you! Our packages start at a minimum of 90 minutes and extra time can be added on! To book or enquire, please contact us on the details below and we can start your Pop Up Arcade journey! Wedding Entertainment CONTACT: 0203 0892439 | info@popuparcade.co.uk | www.popuparcade.co.uk
REGULARS 7 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Kelly 8 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the county 13 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs 73 HOT TOPIC: SUSTAINABILITY Stellar wedmin advice from those in the know 88 COMPETITION Win a diamond and pearl necklace worth £1,100 CONTENTSMAY/JUNE 2023 On the cover This issue’s cover brings all the drama! It is sponsored by Stone Court House (www.stonecourthouse.com) where the image was beautifully captured by Peggy Pollock Photography (www.peggy-pollock.com/weddings | @peggypollockphototgraphy). Turn to the features from pages 8 and 27 to learn more about the venue. 59 FEATURES 55 A FRESH START This stunning and oh-so romantic shoot is bursting with the joys of spring 59 LOVE THROUGH THE AGES Using a colour palette of navy, dark green, pale pinks and cream, this local shoot brings the romance to Hempstead House 63 OH, GO ON THEN! Discover what’s hot in the wonderful world of wedding cakes 68 ECO-CHIC ROMANCE This team of local suppliers got together to show us how a big day can be chic as well as green 83 SPEND, SPLASH, SPLURGE Stunning jewellery and accessory ideas whatever your budget 49 VENUES 19 SPOTLIGHT ON... Bromley, Bexley and Dartford 27 HOME AWAY FROM HOME We’ve rounded up some of Kent’s finest stately home and manor house venues for your consideration www.kayleighstammersphotography.com www.scottkendallphotography.co.uk 3
REAL WEDDINGS 32 CLASSIC COASTAL ELEGANCE Rachel and Ryan used a romantic blush palette to style their day 39 IT MUST BE LOVE Abi and Jonathan celebrated their respective heritages with personal touches throughout their wedding day 43 SPRINGTIME SUNFLOWER STYLE Georgina and Frank said “I do” on 20th May, 2022 49 BOOGIE WONDERLAND Abi and Callum drew on the colourful world of disco for their big-day styling inspiration HONEYMOONS 96 THE CITY OF LOVE Discover why Paris is the perfect honeymoon destination FASHION & BEAUTY 77 I’M A BARBIE GIRL Take inspiration from summer’s most anticipated movie release with fun, flirty styles 91 BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems 92 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with these must-haves for the bride-to-be 95 BRIGHTEN UP YOUR LIFE Celebrity hair stylist Michael Douglas, talks wedding dos and OGX’s new Colour Retention range 55 39 43 63 www.fionakellyphotography.com https://nphotography.co.uk 68 www.candcimagery.co.uk https://nataliehylandphotography.co.uk www.emilybrown.photography 83 4
Are you looking for your perfect wedding bouquet? Here at Michaela Barnes Creations we aim for perfection but at a lower rate Based in Faversham at Brogdale Farm, I started my business for brides to be able to get everything under one roof and not have the hassle of ordering samples online, and going to many suppliers for different things. You can book a consultation and come to view all samples. From wedding bouquet’s, floral centrepiece’s and wedding venue décor, to personalised gifts, bridal jewellery, wedding favours and more. We even hire out venue décor such as sweet carts, 4 ft Lightup Love letters, prosecco walls and a cream post box for your wedding cards. All at a low rate. We do weekly deals on our facebook page. Feel free to contact me for more information. MICHAELABARNESCREATIONS WWW.MICHAELABARNESCREATIONS.CO.UK 07542 496950 | michaelabarnescreations@gmail.com
As I write the nation is excitedly anticipating the coronation of King Charles III. Whether you’re a royalist, or merely delighted at the prospect of an extra bank holiday, there’ll be something to celebrate. At least for the foreseeable future, May will be the month we commemorate the King’s jubilees, so we’re ready to party. Although you may be royaled out by the time you read this, I always think of our readers as queens and kings, princesses and princes, and believe you all deserve the royal treatment on your big day, so why not consider adding a regal edge to your nuptials? Jewel-toned colour palettes are certainly seeing a surge in popularity, thanks to their opulent, rich hues; and shades such as purple and red have long been associated with royalty. When it comes to dining, think banqueting tables bedecked in gold cutlery and crystal, with tall candelabra and centrepieces. Of course, add this styling to a stately home wedding venue and you’re there! We have some suggestions for you from page 27. When it comes to your attire, what could be more royal than a ballgown? Pair a full, extravagant skirt with a dramatic train and veil, and you’ll have guests gasping as you make your grand entrance. If you like this idea, but fear the volume will impede you on the dancefloor, opt for a detachable skirt, allowing you to transform your look into a sleek silhouette for the evening. Finally, your very own crown is a must-have for this theme, whether it’s a flower version for a Queen Titania twist or a bejewelled tiara. Check out our jewellery and accessories feature from page 83 for some inspiration to suit any budget. As we now patiently await the summer, don’t miss our host of styled shoots and real weddings this issue, ready and waiting for you. Enjoy and keeeep planning! Kelly x ISSN 1746-9384 Your Kent Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Events & Publishing Ltd. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Your Kent Wedding is published six times a year. Kelly Andrews, editor MEDIA PUBLISHING VENTS UBLISHING EVENTS & PUBLISHING cwe COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS www.emilybrown.photography 88 WIN! A diamond and pearl necklace worth £1,100 73 GOING GREEN There’s much more on sustainability over in Hot Topic, where the county’s suppliers share a wealth of wisdom. www.emilybrown.photography 68 ECO-CHIC ROMANCE Sustainability is a key consideration when planning a wedding in the 2020s. Our experts show us how it’s done with flair. 55 WHITE WEDDING I’m in love with this modern, chic big-day bake by Newington Cakes (www.newington-cakes.com). www.candcimagery.co.uk ADVERTISING Account Manager Julia Owen | 01376 538 495 julia.owen@county.wedding @CountyWeddingMagazines @CountyWeddings @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding EDITORIAL Deputy Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | 01376 535 611 kelly.andrews@county.wedding Crowning glory EDITOR’S LETTER 7
NEWS Nearlywed Catch up on the latest from around the county SHOOT FOR THE MOON Ever wondered what a pre-shoot is? Also, known as an engagement shoot, it’s an informal photo session for you and your partner before your big day. You can choose when it takes place during the lead up to your wedding, whether it be in the same season, or at a different time of year. This is a fantastic opportunity for you as a couple to get to know your photographer and their way of working, after all you’ll be spending a lot of time in each other’s company on one of the biggest days of your life. So, never underestimate how much this process will help you to relax in front of the camera when it really counts. What’s more, when the big day finally rolls around you’ll then know exactly what to expect leaving you to feel at ease and relaxed. The result? Nothing but beautiful, natural images. Nicky Tulip from Nicky’s Photography offers just such an opportunity, usually priced at £250. However, we’ve partnered with this local lovely to offer Your Kent Wedding readers a free engagement shoot when you book your wedding photography package with Nicky’s Photography for your big day. To claim, simply get in touch with Nicky before 30th June, 2023 and quote YKWfreePS. Find out more at https://nphotography.co.uk NEW VENUE ALERT! Set among 250 acres of beautiful Kentish countryside, Betteshanger Country Park was created in the early 2000s as an outdoor recreational venue, based on the old Betteshanger Colliery. Not your usual wedding venue! It has since developed into the modern, vibrant and unique location it is today. Purchased in 2019, the current owners have delivered their vision of not only an outdoor park and activity site, but also a beautiful location for events of all shapes and sizes. The Glass Room event space and The Lamp Room bar/restaurant were opened in 2022 as Deal’s newest wedding venues. These stylish and tasteful spots offer characterful backdrops for your special day. You can expect support from an onsite team of wedding planners, and the in-house catering team can create bespoke menus ensuring your big day is everything you dreamed of. “We’re excited to be able to offer our couples the perfect setting for their special days,” food and beverage manager Tyler Christy told us. Find out more at www.betteshanger-park.co.uk HOTEL HOTSPOT Brama, Bromley’s newest and only boutique hotel, has announced it will be welcoming guests just in time for summer, ideal if you’re set to wed in the area and guests need a stylish place to crash. With 23 beautifully designed rooms, Brama is set to combine convenience and comfort with appeal and bags of local flair. The new lifestyle hotel is part of the major renovation of Bromley Old Town Hall following its addition to the Heritage at Risk register in 2009, bringing a new lease of life to the much-loved historical building. Steeped in history, the Old Town Hall officially opened in 1907, and has since played host to the wedding of David Bowie and been the local seat of government. The design-led hotel is perfectly positioned for locals and visitors alike, in the heart of Bromley and close to shopping, train stations and connections to central London. Rooms will start from £109 per night on a room only basis. Find out more at https://bramahotels.com READER OFFER https://nphotography.co.uk 8
NUTS ABOUT YOU Penshurst Place and Gardens now boasts a new licensed outdoor space for couples seeking a beautiful location for their “I dos.” Located among 11 acres of formal gardens, The Nut Garden is surrounded by an oak pergola covered with rambling roses, ivy and climbing wisteria. At its heart, a central arbour with flowering foliage create the perfect backdrop for exchanging vows amid the ethereal beauty of nature. The Nut Garden can accommodate up to 100 guests and provides an intimate and private ceremony space ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed and informal setting. Additionally, you and your guests can enjoy the romantic scenery throughout the gardens as you make your way there. Penshurst Place and Gardens has been hailed Wedding Venue of the Year 2022/23 at the Kent Wedding Awards. It scooped the accolade in recognition of its unforgettable architecture, amazing gardens, and various indoor and outdoor settings to suit every vision. Find out more at https://weddings.penshurstplace.com WORDS OF WISDOM The team of specialist family law solicitors at local firm Warners have a wealth of experience in drawing up bespoke pre-nuptial agreements to fit the needs of particular couples. It’s all too easy to get swept away in the prettiness of wedding planning and romance of the occasion, but sometimes we might need to take a moment, just a moment, to let our heads rule our hearts. So, we asked Kirsty Humphrey, marketing manager at Warners, to tell us more about pre-nups and why a couple might choose to get one. Kirsty says, “A pre-nuptial agreement is a document agreed by a couple before their wedding that sets out how their various assets would be shared if their marriage breaks down. Pre-nups aren’t binding in England and Wales, but the existence of such a document, if certain conditions are met regarding its creation, can be very persuasive in court when dealing with marital assets upon divorce. Entering into a pre-nup before getting married allows couples to discuss their views and express their wishes for how financial matters would be resolved in the event of a divorce. This can avoid lengthy and costly dispute arising in the future.” If you’d like to know more, check out www.warners-solicitors.co.uk THE GIFT OF CHOCOLATE Goupie is a family-run chocolate confectionery brand based in Goudhurst, Kent, hand-making a uniquely textured treat based on an old family recipe. Better still, everything the team makes is vegan friendly, gluten-free and sustainably packaged. After receiving a number of requests from customers for wedding favours, it was decided this year to officially create some options. These include mouth-watering chocolate covered marshmallow totes, personalised boxes, and whole tins of dips and dabs. You can also opt for a celebration tower in eight and 12 person versions, which offer a fun alternative to dessert or perfect for a treat with coffee. Currently, Goupie’s products are stocked with a number of local independent retailers including Liberty and the National Trust, as well as being available online. What’s more, the brand has won a Great Taste Award, Sustainable Business the Taste of Kent Awards, Ethical Business in the Love Where We Live Awards and most recently it was recognised as a Green Business in the Times of Tunbridge Wells Awards. Discover more at https://goupiechocolate.com KENT LIVE! Having undergone significant renovations this year, Dreamland threw open it’s doors once more in April. It now features an exciting new family coaster, plus new amusements such as a reimagined mirror maze and pinball machines. These new attractions will sit alongside the much-loved scenic railway, the UK’s oldest wooden roller coaster, and the iconic big wheel. As in previous seasons, Dreamland will be free to enter and pay per ride. This year the attraction will present its largest ever programme of music and events, with new gigs added to the previously announced line up of stars. New acts include Placebo, The Streets, Rag n Bone Man, The Cuban Brothers featuring DJ Yoda, and Ocean Colour Scene. Additional events will take place throughout the season too, bringing family days out, musical theatre, dance classes and Margate Pride to Dreamland. Park goers can enjoy the delights of the retro roller disco, the popular arcade and amusements, plus food and drink provided by hand-picked local traders. This year, pop up activations, art installations and free outdoor screenings from the Scenic Stage are also set to entertain. So, why not grab your best gals and guys and head to Margate for a hen, stag or sten to remember, packed with iconic local character? Find out more at www.dreamland.co.uk YOUR ESSENTIALS 9
FIVE MINUTES WITH... MARTIN FOX-ROBERTS, PROUD FOX CEREMONIES www.proudfoxceremonies.com This month, we caught up with the utterly fabulous Martin Fox-Roberts of Proud Fox Ceremonies, and his alter ego, drag queen Maria Hurtz. We wanted to know everything about how he became a celebrant as well as what it’s like to have a ceremony conducted by the mischievous Maria. Click play or scan the QR code to find out the answer to these questions and more! SABAN DEMIRBASA, STONE COURT HOUSE www.stonecourthouse.com Having recently thrown open its doors to weddings, Stone Court House in Maidstone is one of Kent’s newest venues and will be taking bookings from May, 2023. Itching to know more, we chatted to owner Saban Demirbasa. Tell us about the history of Stone Court House. Stone Court House is Grade II listed with both national and historical importance, and early records confirm that the building was the private residence of Lady Margaret Sackville (1562-1591) of Knole House, Sevenoaks, one of the top five National Trust properties in the country. Thereafter, it became the Crown Judges lodgings until the 1960s. In more recent times it sadly fell into disrepair until we purchased the property in 2019. We understand there’s been extensive renovations going on. Can you tell us more about that? We spent three years restoring Stone Court House, investing millions in the process. Only historical and natural building materials were used, such as sheep wool insulation, 45 tons of horsehair lime plaster, oak, wool carpets and water-based paints. Historic England officially removed Stone Court House from the Risk Register in November 2022, and we were shortlisted for the Historic Building Restoration Awards 2022. What’s your favourite part of the venue? All of it! It’s a truly beautiful and unique place, pictures don’t do it justice, and we’ve been told by numerous guests that it’s like staying overnight in a museum. When the lights go down its wonderfully atmospheric. What’re you most looking forward to about hosting weddings? Happy guests who’ll keep memories of our home for a lifetime. We live here in our very own private quarters, it’s our family home. We ask our guests to take off their shoes and walk around on the 100 per cent wool carpets, making themselves at home. We even see guests coming downstairs in their nightwear! It’s very comfortable and private, quiet for it’s town centre location and we’re not open to the general public. We’re able to accommodate a maximum of 18 guests ensuring they have plenty of room. AMANDA WHITE, STYLED TO REMEMBER www.styledtoremember.co.uk Formerly Amanda Jane Events, Styled to Remember is a fresh new look, feel and lease on life for owner Amanda White. We got the lowdown on the rebrand, and heard of the business’ exciting plans for the future. What sparked the rebrand? Amanda Jane Events began more than 12 years ago, and after dealing with some life-changing moments, it felt like the right time for a fresh approach, new ideas and a business partner to share the highs and lows of our wonderful industry. Changing the company name and rebranding was by no means out with the old and in with the new. We’re not trend-chasers, we listen to our clients’ ideas and needs, keep them within budget and ultimately create a wedding that’s unapologetically unique. Are you doing anything different now that you didn’t do before? When the industry was put into lockdown, it was debilitating for us as a supplier, but our couples missed sharing their love declarations with family and friends. Finding alternative ways to share moments took us out of our comfort zone and look to alternative ideas. We realised quickly that smaller weddings became more intimate, somewhat more meaningful. So, we decided to incorporate a service for intimate dining experiences. We now have many new products that we love; our flower walls are very popular for example. Being known as a rustic-style supplier is something I’m proud of, but the classics are elegant and fresh, so we’re looking froward to seeing more of this. What does the future hold for you? We hope to develop our relationships with venues, suppliers and clients to provide a bespoke service for each of our events. In focusing on our venue styling and incorporating new ideas, we hope to pass on our passion for weddings and events to those we connect with throughout our journey. What’s your favourite trend at the moment? We’re huge fans of whimsical meadow flowers, monochrome palettes, bows on dresses and floral patterns. www.teddypigphotography.com Scan to view video Scan to view video www.tonypullenphotography.co.uk www.peggy-pollock.com/weddings 10
bradbournehousekent.co.uk | weddings@bradbournehousekent.co.uk | 01732 897436 Bradbourne House, New Road, East Malling, Kent, ME19 6DZ Breathtaking scenery, exceptional service and fine, locally sourced menus An idyllic setting for your Wedding Day, located in the heart of the Kent countryside
Nobody gets married with separation in mind, but sadly, more than 100,000 marriages per year end in divorce in the UK, according to the most recent Office for National Statistics figures. With people choosing to marry later in life, having already purchased a property, received an inheritance or accrued significant wealth, it is becoming increasingly common that couples are taking a pragmatic approach and setting out how they might organise their separation should it ever become necessary. One way of doing this is through the use of a pre-nuptial agreement What is a pre-nuptial agreement? A pre-nuptial agreement is a document agreed by a couple before their wedding, which sets out how their various assets would be shared if their marriage breaks down. Pre-nups are not binding in England and Wales, but the existence of such a document, if certain conditions are met regarding its creation, can be very persuasive to a court when dealing with marital assets upon divorce. Entering into a pre-nup before getting married allows couples to discuss their views and express their wishes for how financial matters would be resolved in the event of a divorce. This can avoid lengthy and costly disputes arising in the future. Pre-nups are particularly useful where one party might want to protect family wealth, whether this be the existence of a family business or a substantial inheritance. It may be that one party has children from a previous relationship they want to provide for or that this is a second marriage and the protection of a share of assets received in a previous divorce is required. Either way, giving some consideration to how you might best protect yourself and your family should divorce occur is becoming more commonplace in couples planning to marry. In many European countries, it is no more than a standard piece of wedding admin which is required before a marriage can go ahead. What can a pre-nup include? Pre-nups should be specifically drafted to reflect your personal circumstances but could include clauses covering: • what happens to a family business • what happens to the family home and any other property • whether one spouse ought to retain inherited wealth • arrangements for the children • the allocation of personal belongings Conditions The pre-nuptial agreement must be freely entered into at least 28 days before the wedding- preferably more. Both parties to it must have had the time to fully understand the implications of the agreement and some disclosure of the prospective spouse’s financial positions must be provided to the other. It is essential that you take independent legal advice upon the contents of the agreement before you sign it, and your lawyer will need to counter-sign the document with you. The agreement will also need to take into account both parties’ needs and will need to be fair. How can we help The specialist family law solicitors at Warners have a wealth of experience in drawing up bespoke pre-nuptial agreements to fit the needs of particular couples. We will work alongside you to create a fair agreement whilst meeting all the conditions to establish a water-tight agreement. The contents of this article are for the purposes of general awareness only. They do not purport to constitute legal or professional advice. The law may have changed since this article was published. Readers should not act on the basis of the information included and should take appropriate professional advice. Do you need a Pre-nuptial Agreement? Contact Warners Solicitors on 01732 747900 to nd out more about how they can help you plan for your family’s future. www.warners-solicitors.co.uk
ENTER ONLINE AT WWW.YOURKENT.WEDDING BEFORE 30TH JUNE 2023. CAKE EXPECTATIONS Whether you’ve planned grand-scale celebrations or intimate nuptials surrounded by your nearest and nearest, owner of Bexley-based Cake It or Leave It, Lyndsay AllenTrott, will work with you to create a big-day bake that perfectly complements your day, complete with real wow factor. All of her stunning, bespoke wedding cakes are made using only the finest ingredients, including freerange eggs from Lyndsay’s very own backyard hens and ducks. We’ve partnered with local lovely Cake It or Leave It to bring you not one, but two fabulous offers! Firstly, benefit from a low deposit of £50 when you book (usually £100), then you’ll also get a fabulous 10% off your wedding cake order. To claim simply get in touch with Cake It or Leave It at lynz1983@icloud.com or on 07403 268 004 before 30th June, 2023, and quote: “Your Kent Wedding.” To find out more, check out www.cake-it-or-leave-it.co.uk Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs WIN A £250 VOUCHER TO SPEND WITH COEUR DE LION The hunt for the perfect bridal jewellery stops here, with a chance to win £250 worth of jewels from COEUR DE LION – celebrating 35 years in business this year! Handmade in Germany, each piece is lovingly crafted by a team of artisans from the finest materials at its Stuttgart workshop, genuine natural stones, shimmering crystals and freshwater pearls give each piece individuality. The brand’s new freshwater pearl collection offers the ideal bridal jewellery, or you could choose to spend your winning voucher on lovely gifts for all your bridesmaids. Visit www.coeur-de-lion.org to view the entire range. County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with COEUR DE LION to offer readers the chance to win a £250 voucher. Enter via our website. Terms and Conditions apply. Freebies & OFFERS The Pretty Prep Studios in Ashford launched last summer and gives bridal parties a fantastic space to get ready on the morning of the wedding. Some bridal suites are already occupied the night before, so you aren’t able to access them until late morning. Some venues don’t have anywhere at all for you to get ready, so this offers the perfect solution. The studio is spacious, has fantastic lighting and enough plug sockets and mirror for everyone. It’s in a converted oast barn and the circular hop drying room has been turned into the most beautiful dressing room. There’s a dining room and kitchen with a full-size fridge to store those all-important bottles of fizz. Surely, there’s no better way to start your day! We’ve teamed up with The Pretty Prep Studios to offer Your Kent Wedding readers a £45 discount on the studio’s day rate, along with a free bottle of prosecco waiting in the fridge on the morning of the big day. To claim, simply quote, “Your Kent Wedding,” when you enquire. Offer valid until 30th June 2023. Find out more at www.theprettyprepstudios.co.uk ALL ABOUT THE PREP FREEBIES & OFFERS 13
WEDDING SHOWS AUTUMN 2023 ALL EVENTS 11AM - 3PM unless otherwise stated /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area. All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day. SUN 24 SEP | RACKLEY’S CHILTERN HILLS Marlow Road, Cadmore End, Bucks, HP14 3PP SUN 10 SEP | CHENIES MANOR HOUSE Chenies, Rickmansworth, Bucks, WD3 6ER SUN 1 OCT | NUTFIELD PRIORY Nutfield Road, Nutfield, Redbridge, RH1 4EL BERKS, BUCKS & OXON SURREY
As part of KD Events and Publishing Ltd, County Wedding Events (CWE) is ideally placed to offer you a wealth of experience organising events in the wedding industry. If you would like more information about either holding a wedding show at your venue or exhibiting at any of our shows, please contact us at info@countyweddingevents. com, call 01376 514000 or visit our website countyweddingevents.com. WORK WITH US ESSEX KENT EAST MIDLANDS SUN 8 OCT | LAYER MARNEY TOWER Layer Marney, Colchester, CO5 9US SUN 12 NOV | PENSHURST PLACE Penshurst, TN11 8DG SUN 29 OCT | HOUCHINS WEDDING VENUE Houchin’s Lane, Coggeshall, Colchester, CO6 1RT SUN 1 OCT | MULBERRY HOUSE Chelmsford Road, High Ongar, CM5 9NL SUN 22 OCT | BRAXTED PARK Great Braxted, Witham, CM8 3EN SUN 15 OCT | RUSHTON HALL Desborough Road, Rushton, Kettering, NN14 1RR SUN 15 OCT | BRADBOURNE HOUSE New Road, East Malling, ME19 6DZ 12PM-4PM
• Free entry • First 100 couples receive a free wedding journal keepsake • Goody bag for each couple • Up to 200 stands • Bridal fashion shows • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Demonstration areas • Competitions • Entertainment • Refreshments • And more... Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration London, HA9 0WS SUNDAY 8 OCTOBER 2023 | 11AM - 4PM WEMBLEY STADIUM Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER 2023 | 11AM - 3:30PM MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD High Street, Berkshire, SL5 7JX SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2023 | 11AM - 3.30PM ASCOT RACECOURSE
Pre-register for all of our events at www.countyweddingevents.com ASCOT RACECOURSE, 1ST OCTOBER, 2023 WEMBLEY STADIUM, 8TH OCTOBER, 2023 MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD, 29TH OCTOBER, 2023 X Sarah Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to kickstarting our Spring 2023 wedding show season – perfect for all those couples that got engaged over the festive period. From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues to our larger Signature Wedding Shows, we can’t wait to welcome nearlyweds to our events and help plan their wedding day. Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof. On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés. Couples will need to pre-register in advance for an allocated arrival time, although on the day visitors are always welcome, and attending our shows are free! For more information, visit County Wedding Events’ website. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events. Sarah Ellis, Sales and Events Director County Wedding Events. Psst! Our pre-registered Signature Wedding Show visitors will have the chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of Spabreaks.com A date for your diary... GREAT EXPECTATIONS
Weddings at The Alexander Centre, Faversham Why not say ‘I Do’ at the Alex? We’re a dab hand at putting on a great wedding and we have space to accommodate ceremonies and receptions - both can be indvidually decorated too, to create your own unique wedding look and feel! Our elegant ceremony room is a beautiful, light-filled space for you and up to 50 guests. For your reception The Gatefield Hall comfortably accommodates 150 guests for a sit-down meal and has plenty of space for partying! Our pretty walled garden, a great space for a BBQ, can be dressed with bunting, and fairy lights and even accommodate a bouncy castle to entertain the young or young at heart. All our wedding parties have access to a fully licensed bar as well as a full-size catering kitchen so you can bring in your own preferred caterer, or let us organise this for you. For more information www.thealex.org.uk 01795 591691 weddings@thealex.org.uk
Spotlight on... Tie the knot in a local hotspot BROMLEY COURT HOTEL 0208 461 8600 | www.bromleycourthotel.co.uk Bromley Court has a rich, 200-year history with the atmosphere of an intimate country house. Its stunning gardens full of both beauty and history – the picture-perfect Italianate Gardens, with the urns and terracing, can still be enjoyed today. Years of hospitality experience have gone into fine-tuning its event spaces, offering beautiful, air-conditioned rooms with modern chandelier lighting and stylish décor. For the vows, The Wellington Suite is the hotel’s most popular space for up to 90, situated on the ground floor it consists of two rooms with connecting doors and its own bar. Both are beautifully light and bright with large windows offering fabulous views of the gardens. The rooms benefit from having direct access to an external patio area and the gardens beyond. It’s also often utilised for the wedding breakfast, 90 seated guests or 150 standing. The Garden Restaurant, an elegant suite with views over the landscaped garden and patio areas benefits from an adjoining bar and lounge, with ornate fireplace and chandeliers. It has its own dancefloor with fitted disco and lighting, which can be used if the resident DJ is booked. It can host ceremonies and wedding breakfasts for 180 seated guests or 250 standing. Alternatively, for smaller gatherings The Darwin Room is tastefully decorated, has its own bar, access to the gardens and can host ceremonies and wedding breakfasts with up to 60 loved ones (standing 65). Amelia’s Room and Leona’s Room, host intimate ceremonies and wedding breakfasts of 40 and 20 guests respectively. BROMLEY, BEXLEY AND DARTFORD 19 LOCAL VENUES
CAMDEN PLACE 020 8467 2782 | www.camden-place.com Camden Place is a Grade II listed building which, since 1894, has been the magnificent home of Chislehurst Golf Club. The mansion is set away from the road in 70 acres of beautiful grounds that exude peace and tranquillity. The high ceilings, period fireplaces and architectural details are representative of fine Georgian heritage, combining to give a sense of grandeur. The grand hallway with its magnificent sweeping staircase, and picturesque grounds, provide stunning photographic opportunities. When considering this big-day venue, there are three exquisite ceremony spaces, accommodating up to a maximum of 96 guests for a formal sit-down meal and up to 250 for evening receptions For ceremonies and receptions these spaces can hold the following guest numbers: Imperial Lounge 80 and 150 (combined with the Oval), Oval 25, Dining Room 90 and 96. Alternatively, a marquee can be positioned within the grounds for weddings on a larger scale of up to 250 loved ones with stunning views of the course. THE MANOR AT BICKLEY 020 3598 9900 | www.themanoratbickley.co.uk The Manor at Bickley is set in six acres of private ground, so as you drive through the gates, you’ll enter a world of calm, a true escape from the every day. Being here, it’s easy to see how Kent earned it’s name as the Garden of England, and is the ideal spot for photographs. The hotel features 25 en-suite bedrooms including the deluxe Garden Suite, perfect for the bridal party and later the newlyweds. The Ceremony Room can host 120 guests and has been custom built to provide the perfect backdrop. Weather permitting, the Tiki Bar can accommodate 100 loved ones for a relaxing, informal drinks reception following the “I dos.” Receptions are held in the Billiard Suite for 63 guests. A traditional wood-panelled room it boasts views of the gorgeous grounds. The Garden Suite can hold 120 guests. The smaller of the venue’s two marquees, it links to the Garden Bar and Terrace. The Grand Marquee is so named as it can comfortably seat an impressive 500 guests. The Manor at Bickley is available for exclusive use from 12pm on the day of your wedding until 12pm the following day. You’ll also have access to all en-suite bedrooms on a bed and breakfast basis. In effect, from the electric gates onwards, The Manor is all yours!. https://dreamsfairfilms.com www.linseysalter.com Scan to view video 20
Join us at Deal’s newest wedding venue for your special day. With two stunning venues, 250 acres of gorgeous grounds and a creative in-house events team, we can create your perfect wedding day. We create your package to suit your wedding Wedding Coordinator to help with planning Creative Head Chef to help with bespoke menus and tastes Woodlands, sea views and wild landscapes for special moments Outdoor ceremony option (unlicensed) Welcoming arrival packages Adaptable catering packages
Offering: ◦ Gazebo Ceremony over the lake ◦ Exclusive wedding packages ◦ On site wedding planner ◦ Accomodation ◦ Amazing photo opportunities Set on an idyllic lake, surrounded by 3 acres of natural woodland, the Inn on the Lake makes for an unforgettable wedding venue Contact our events team today to begin planning your dream wedding Inn on the Lake, Watling Street, Shorne, Kent ,DA12 3HB 01474 823333 events@fcdhotels.co.uk
KEVINGTON HALL 01689 821 369 | http://kevingtonhall.com Kevington Hall is an exclusive hire wedding venue set in 200 acres of Kent countryside. The stunning 18th-century Georgian house is classic in style with a contemporary fairytale twist. Boasting exclusivity, privacy, flexibility and a welcoming atmosphere, Kevington Hall could be just what you’ve been looking for! The Ceremony Room here can accommodate 80 nearest and dearest. It’s a beautiful light and versatile space licensed for civil marriage and partnership ceremonies. The stunning Georgian windows overlook the lawns and the beautiful large oak tree. If you prefer more intimate “I dos” the Drawing Room is also licensed and overlooks the front lawns through a gorgeous rounded bay window. Here, you can comfortably seat 50 loved ones. Al fresco ceremonies are also an option on the lawn or in the glorious moon garden. Following your vows, enjoy a sparkling drinks reception in the Sitting Room and let your guests explore the ground floor making themselves feel at home. Alternatively, if the sun’s shining why not make the most of the extensive lawns? For guest lists of 50 or fewer, Kevington Hall can host your celebrations in the classical dining room. With elegant styling and a traditional feel, treat your guests to a delicious feast in luxurious surroundings. For up to 80 guests, the stunning Orangery is available – the perfect space to style any way you choose. It can also be converted into an amazing party space while your loved ones enjoy cocktails in the main house and you await the arrival of your evening guests. With state-of-the-art sound system and lighting included in the venue price, up to 250 people can enjoy this wonderful party space. For even larger celebrations of between 80 and 250, marquees or stretch tents are welcome on the lawns. An elegant hotel with contemporary interior, Doubletree By Hilton Dartford Bridge is filled with modern furniture and comfortable seating areas. This hotel also contains an on-site restaurant, which offers a fantastic setting for rehearsal dinners. Ceremonies of up to 120 loved ones, and receptions for 180 are held in the Queen Elizabeth Suite, which is bathed in natural light and opens out onto a courtyard area. The space also boasts a private bar, dancefloor and space for a DJ in the evening – a soundproof partition splits the room making a smooth transition from day to night. Couples who choose to celebrate at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dartford Bridge will have access to a comprehensive range of resources, a dedicated wedding coordinator, and catering will be provided by the on-site culinary team who can accommodate both seated meals and buffet-style banquets. DOUBLETREE BY HILTON DARTFORD BRIDGE 01322 306 607 | www.hilton.com/en/hotels/gatdbdi-doubletree-dartford-bridge © Claire Graham, @affinitystorie https://jayandersonweddings.com © Claire Graham, @affinitystorie LOCAL VENUES 23
The salt air, crashing waves, and those magical sunsets you only get over the sea... there’s nothing quite like a wedding by the coast. It can be yours at one of Kent’s most elegant venues, the Hythe Imperial Hotel. WHAT TO EXPECT This 18th-century manor is set on Hythe’s seafront, a quiet market town that overlooks the English Channel. It boasts some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in all of Kent. Those panoramic sea views aren’t the venue’s only attraction however. The Hythe Imperial also boasts beautifully landscaped grounds, covering 44 acres. This is the Garden of England after all. Nestled among the gorgeous grounds you’ll find a charming gazebo, available for ceremonies from April to September. Meanwhile, inside the hotel there’s a grand ballroom and a choice of intimate rooms for both ceremony and reception. THE WEDDING WOW FACTOR Although bursting with history, the Hotel had a multi-million-pound refurbishment several years ago, updating the Victorian building with luxurious and contemporary interiors throughout. From walking the red carpet, to saying “I do,” through to the toasts, cutting the cake and sitting down for a sumptuous three-course wedding breakfast, finished with a night to remember – this venue offers one amazing luxurious coastal location for it all. A jewel in the crown is the Hotel’s impressive Imperial Ballroom. This grand room overlooks the sea, with private access to an outside terrace and sun deck, and its own bar. There’s nowhere better for wedding receptions. Opulent and full of character, it’s still a perfect blank canvas where individual décor ideas to come to life. A further element delivering the wedding wow factor in spades is the Hotel’s spectacular chandelier, which is a jaw-dropping 11 metres long and hangs above the centre staircase. Weighing 250kg and created using 25,000 individual crystals, it’s the largest example in Europe. WINE AND DINE The Coast restaurant has been awarded an AA rosette for fine dining. From chef-prepared meals to a tasty evening buffet, you can expect modern British cuisine using local ingredients for a wedding breakfast sure to delight, served with flair. This includes fresh fish landed just a pebble’s throw away along the beach, to fresh meat and vegetables also sourced in Kent. DREAMS Coastal Discover why this historical hotel is the perfect venue for a Kent wedding by the sea, with a choice of dedicated spaces, award-winning dining, and an expert in-house team https://jeffoliverphotography.com www.instagram.com/scottdaveyuk http://fleurchallisphotography.com 24
GET IN TOUCH 01303 267 441 | weddings@hytheimperialhotel.com www.hytheimperial.co.uk This is just the start as the Hotel can also cater more relaxed weddings with barbecues and other laid-back options such as fish and chips or fork buffets. The venue even has a glamorous and glitzy Moët & Chandon champagne bar, the only one on the South Coast (the other being in Harrods). This exclusive venue seats 40 and can even be used for an intimate wedding. A PLACE TO REST YOUR HEAD Being a hotel, the Hythe Imperial also makes it easy for you and your guests to enjoy a seaside stay for a day or two, or perhaps longer. It’s such a comfortable and relaxed way to enjoy your big day, with everything all under one roof. The Belcourt Suite is a popular choice, a penthouse at the top of the Hotel with uninterrupted coastal views. For the wedding party there’s a wide choice of recently-refurbished rooms and suites, ranging from spacious and decadent, to family rooms and cottage-style suites. As part of many packages, a complimentary overnight stay in a deluxe room is included for the two of you on your wedding night. Special rates are available for family and friends to stay too. There’s even a luxury spa for some pampering ahead of the big day. This includes a heated indoor pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, relaxation room and gym. Plus, therapists offer everything from facials to hot stone massages, to take away any last-minute stress. ASK THE EXPERTS The Hythe Imperial has an expert in-house wedding team, there to help you plan every detail of your perfect Kent seaside wedding. Choose from a selection of flexible wedding packages, or put together a bespoke wedding experience tailored just for you. If you want to take the next step towards your dream coastal wedding, get in touch and book a viewing. Set foot inside the welcome surroundings with a glass of fizz, take a walk around the Hotel’s grand rooms and outside spaces, and start to fall in love with this landmark venue on the Kent coast. www.instagram.com/scottdaveyuk www.billfarnhamphotography.com https://jeffoliverphotography.com https://jeffoliverphotography.com ADVERTISING FEATURE 25
info@soltonmanor.co.uk | 01304 448844 | www.soltonmanor.com SOLTON MANOR, SOLTON LANE, EAST LANGDON DOVER, CT15 5JB e perfect wedding venue with a slice of history and more than a sprinkling of romance. Call 01843 830150 or email, info@staugustines.uk.com today to book your viewing 125 Canterbury Road, Westgate-on-Sea, Kent CT8 8NL | www.staugustineskent.com | A WEDDING AS UNIQUE AS YOU ARE... Your wedding is one of the most exciting and important days of your life – one that you will cherish and remember forever. If you are looking for a dream wedding venue in Kent, St Augustine’s is where dreams come true. At St Augustine’s we believe that every wedding is different. With a wide variety of rooms and spaces from which to choose, St Augustine’s is a truly unique venue and can offer: Weddings perfectly tailored to your needs whether an intimate gathering or 200+ guests • Huge flexibility with many function rooms to choose from for your big day • Elegant outdoor ceremonies in our beautiful gazebo • Deconsecrated chapel for religious, civil ceremonies, wedding breakfasts or reception • Spacious banqueting hall with capacity for 215 guests • Late licence until 1.00 am • Stylish bridal dressing room • Fabulous wedding cuisine, sumptuous banquets and deluxe buffets • A dedicated wedding co-ordinator • It’s your day and we promise it will be perfect, right down to the last tiny, exquisite detail. *Registrar fees are not included. FULL OR TWILIGHT WEDDING PACKAGES STARTING FROM AS LITTLE AS £3,250!
A story to tell... We round up some of our favourite local stately home and manor house wedding venues STONE COURT HOUSE 01622 200 391 | www.stonecourthouse.com Located in the heart of Kent, Stone Court House is a grand Grade II listed four-storey Georgian Townhouse of historic and national importance. With parts dating back to the Medieval period, it was once the private residence of Lady Sackville of Knole House, Sevenoaks, spanning in excess of 15,000sqft with 25 rooms. It boasts historical features such as a Medieval wall, Roman wishing well, oak-panelled Tudor and Georgian living rooms, masonic and spiritual carvings and windows, and Tudor fireplaces. Extensions have been added onto the original building over seven hundred years, with the last addition of a large grand ballroom in the late Georgian period boasting 4m-high ceilings and crystal chandeliers with a grand Regency staircase. After an extensive three-year, multi-million-pound restoration, Stone Court House was finally opened to guests on 3rd June, 2022, as a luxury boutique hotel. There are six large double bedrooms named after judges, inspired by the period Stone Court House spent as The Crown Judges residence. All have standout features including Gothic four-poster beds, large bathrooms with rolltop baths, Tudor oak beams, Regency styling and oak-panel detailing. Recently granted its ceremony licence, couples can now wed in the Georgian Ballroom with up to 75 loved ones. Featuring Georgian architecture with large windows it’s bright and spacious. For al fresco nuptials, the internal courtyard (30), and large Georgian veranda (100) are exquisite spaces. Post-vows, a marquee forming an L-shape surrounding the civil room and Georgian veranda, can host 100 friends and family. With 24hr alcohol, and live and recorded music licences, you can dance the night away. When tying the knot here, tours of the property can be arranged, and couples benefit from a free menu tasting. What’s more, 18 guests can stay overnight, and couples can enjoy a discount on their first anniversary stay! Also, why not host your hen and stag night here? A standout feature is The Judge Wright bridal suite, which includes two bedrooms with the master bedroom containing a king-size Gothic four-poster, two bathrooms (one with a large cast iron roll top bath), dedicated bridal dressing room and with its own private living room spanning 116sqm. It can accommodate six in total. www.peggy-pollock.com www.peggy-pollock.com www.peggy-pollock.com 27 STATELY HOME VENUES
PORT LYMPNE HOTEL & RESERVE 01303 234 111 | www.aspinallfoundation.org/weddings A magical and unique setting steeped in history, four-star Grade II listed mansion Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is Kent’s largest wildlife reserve and award-winning wedding venue, set within 600 acres of magnificent private parkland and home to 900 wild endangered animals. Set among 14-acres of perfectly manicured gardens and adorned with white rambling roses, the garden Pergola seats 110 guests and is an enchanting place to say ‘I do’ outside. Additionally, the second outdoor ceremony option is the Moroccan Courtyard located in Port Lympne Hotel. Offering a more intimate wedding for yourself and 25 guests, it boasts original 1920s details from Phillip Sassoon’s original design and has also been decorated with items from Marrakesh. For al fresco entertaining post-vows, nestled amongst the gardens of the Hotel, The Iceberg Terrace can comfortably seat 100 guests and has views of the Lime Tree Avenue and the Trojan Steps. Inside, for the ceremony, the mansion boasts delightful muralpainted rooms by famous English artists such as Rex Whistler, Spencer Roberts and Martin Jordan. The stunning Spencer Roberts room is hand-painted and showcases a mural of animals, some of which live at Port Lympne; it seats 50 for the ceremony, and 30 for the wedding breakfast. The Long Room can be used for wedding ceremonies witnessed by 100 guests (wedding breakfasts, 50) and has wonderful views of Southern Terrace and 600-acre reserve. The venue’s stunning new glass orangery and terrace are a creative salute to the theatrical entertainment style of the Gatsby era. Truly private and available for exclusive use only for 120 guests for wedding breakfasts, it includes a dancefloor, cloakroom and luxury washrooms, fully incorporated kitchen and has the option to add a marquee or food station on the adjoining lawn. Private guided safaris can be arranged for you and your guests. What’s more, with unique overnight accommodation available from star gazing to luxury lodges set within animal enclosures, there’s ample choice for staying guests. ST AUGUSTINE’S 01843 830 150 | www.staugustineskent.com St Augustine’s is a Grade II listed building set in beautiful grounds in the heart of Westgate-On-Sea in Kent. Formerly a Catholic boarding school, it has a Chapel and beautifully maintained gardens, which boast a gorgeous gazebo, licensed for ceremonies, and a relaxing patio area along with a vast lawn complete with a swing. An array of function rooms are available for any occasion. The Kent Suite (Chapel), hosting 218 for ceremonies, 100 for dining, 250 for informal party, is the hidden gem of St Augustine’s. Mainly used for ceremonies and christenings, it’s also available for receptions and even has its own bar. The Ruby Hall, hosting 500 for cocktail parties, 220 for formal dining, or 180 for a dinner dance, boasts an array of beautiful chandeliers and views of the gardens. One of the largest function rooms, it’s primarily used for wedding breakfasts and receptions. The Drawing Room is a popular dining space for medium-sized parties (150 for a cocktail party, 80 for formal dining), it’s also licenced for civil ceremonies. While for smaller gatherings, The Oak Room can host ceremonies (85), usually for those on the twilight package, and wedding breakfasts (70) in a beautiful space with vaulted ceiling. www.aranyaphotography.co.uk 28
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