BLOOMIN’ LOVELY Michelle Ware from A Little Bit Naughty (https://alittlebitnaughty. co.uk) says: Spring is the season of new beginnings, renewal, and growth, making it the ideal time for a wedding. Beautiful early blooms are the perfect inspiration for a spring celebration. For a relaxed, romantic vibe, a buttercream cake decorated with pretty, pressed, edible pansies, primroses and violets showcase the rustic charm of the season. Sadly, many spring flowers are toxic and not safe for food contact, so please consult with your cake maker or florist who can advise you. However, with so many amazing alternatives available including silk, sugar and even stencilled or hand-painted flowers for a high-end chinoiserie look, there’s no need to miss out. The arrival of the spectacular cherry blossoms is much anticipated and has been celebrated across the world for centuries. These stunning displays capture the beauty and romance of the season and whether added in posies, wired branches or a whole tree growing up your cake, they are sure to wow your guests. Finally, no springtime wedding would be complete without a nod to the season’s signature flower: the cheerful daffodil, with its bright yellow petals symbolising hope and joy. Fresh daffodils are toxic, but artificial flowers can make a striking decorative element for your cake. THE WORLD’S YOUR OYSTER! Philippa Hawketts from Blossom Travel (https://blossomtravel. notjusttravel.com) says: April is a great time to honeymoon as it opens up a lot of the world for you to explore. The Indian Ocean would be a top choice, think the Maldives, Mauritius and the Seychelles, all offering truly idyllic beaches, luxury resorts and absolute relaxation. For any adventurous couples, you could combine this with a safari in South Africa or Tanzania. Spotting the wildlife in Kruger National Park or the Serengeti before unwinding with a cocktail on a tropical island. For couples seeking a more cultural honeymoon, Japan is a must in April with the stunning cherry blossoms transforming cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka into breathtaking pink landscapes. Morocco also offers vibrant souks, desert escapes and luxury riads. From exploring the bustling streets of Marrakech to watching the sunset over the Sahara, it’s a destination full of romance and adventure. You could even head to Peru’s Machu Picchu if ancient wonders are up your street as April marks the start of the dry season. For a mix of beaches, history, and lively culture, Hawaii is stunning in the spring, and destinations like Costa Rica offer adventure-packed honeymoons with rainforests, volcanoes, and waterfalls. Meanwhile, Europe starts warming up in April, making it an excellent time for Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Greece’s islands, or the South of France – romantic without the summer crowds. The world really is your oyster! Rayyu Maldives on Unsplash WHAT’S ON THE MENU? Jacquie Keeley from Fab Food For You (https://fabfoodforyou.co.uk) says: The springtime is when nature wakes up, burgeoning into life. You can’t beat a British spring menu at this time of year, utilising your local farmers and producers. Mackerel is in season, so a lovely mackerel and horseradish parfait on rocket starter is in keeping with spring nuptials. What’s more, spring lamb is fabulous studded with garlic and rosemary cooked pink then drizzled with local honey once cooked and left to rest before carving. Spring chargrilled vegetables including broccoli, kale, spinach, carrots, and scallions are tasty and colourful additions to the plate. Finally, to complete your seasonal wedding breakfast, serve a dessert of local strawberries and cream. Delicious! 52
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