Look what catches the eye of the editor with a special emphasis on local wedding businesses, shops and suppliers.
Charlotte Mills creates bridal shoes that are handcrafted with love and designed so you can not only treasure them forever but also wear them again and again. The company offers a range of block heel wedding shoes, in standard and wide-fit, and even has multiple heel height options to choose from.
Every pair of Charlotte Mills’ handcrafted shoes bears delicately embossed words on the luxurious leather soles, which have fast become the Manchester-based brand’s signature mark.
Charlotte tells us more: “With each purchase, a glittering silver sixpence will become your something old; the shoes are, of course, your something new; the luxury envelope we include is your something borrowed; and, finally, the exquisite blue detailing of our shoes’ in-sock will become your something blue.
“Wielding an innate desire to create shoes that endlessly delight and inspire (not to mention steal brides’ hearts across the globe), I have been applauded throughout the industry for my scrupulous attention to detail, my inherent ability to infuse my designs with a playful spirit and sense of romance and, most importantly, my designs’ tried and tested comfortable fit. Each and every style is carefully crafted utilising the very finest of materials and the most celebrated of skills. The aforementioned signature details are hand-finished, adding that final flourishing touch to a special shoe for an equally special day.”
In 2023, Charlotte launched The Aisle Edit. Housed at the company’s Manchester headquarters in a converted church. The Aisle Edit is the UK’s only bridal department store working with only female-founded brands.
See more of the latest trends in our Handmade in the North West feature in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournorthwest.wedding/free-download
Check out the latest news from Mill End Hotel and more on page nine of the latest issue available to download now for FREE! This delicious afternoon tea served at the luxurious Devon country house property is a must-book to celebrate Valentine's Day.
I was so lucky to be invited to The Store, a boutique hotel located in the heart of Oxfordshire. The spa here is outstanding and it's the ideal place for a pre-wedding pamper, first-night stay or a mini-moon. Read all about it in the latest issue available to download now for FREE!
A crisp white, spring wedding at Braxted Park Estate was the perfect choice for Lois and Kieran Handford. Lois chose a gown called ‘Josie’, designed by Maggie Sottero. It was an ivory satin fit and flare dress with a sweetheart neckline with off the shoulder sleeves and buttons positioned down the train.
This real wedding is featured in full at: An Essex Wedding - January/February 2025 (Issue 120)
Chelsea and Scott met at work and would regularly talk over coffee as friends. “When we realised that there was much more to our relationship and that we had so much in common, we decided to try dating,” says Chelsea. “Our love of rum, holidays and reality TV has brought us closer than I ever imagined possible. Almost three years later, we’re living together and are now married.”
Scott popped the question on a Friday night whilst watching Gogglebox on Channel 4. “It was a nice surprise and special enough for us,” shares the bride. “I immediately messaged photos of the ring to all of my friends and family before we enjoyed the rest of the evening together.”
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Ellie and Ricky met in 2012 at Broad Haven Beach in Haverfordwest. “He was a popular boy who I thought was attractive, but nothing ever happened as he was too old for me at the time,” says Ellie. “Fast forward to 2014, when he took me to a fancy party dressed up as a bobsleigher and we’ve been together ever since.”
Ricky popped the question in 2022. “It was a complete surprise,” shares the bride. “We were visiting Musselwick Beach when he asked me to be his wife.”
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yoursouthwales.wedding/free-download
Boutique Cambridgeshire wedding venue, Swynford Manor, has been named the UK’s most romantic location to tie the knot by the Nation’s Wedding Awards. With more than 250 finalists across 28 different categories, Swynford Manor was announced as the most ‘Romantic Wedding Venue of the Year’ at the awards ceremony.
Sian Parry, the venue manager at Swynford Manor, said: “The Swynford Manor team works incredibly hard to deliver one-of-a-kind weddings to all of our couples on a weekly basis. We are ecstatic to be recognised for our dedication and commitment – not only by the English Wedding Awards but also by The Nation’s Wedding Awards – and this achievement is a real testament to all our hard work.”
Originally built in the 1800s, Swynford Manor is an elegant exclusive- use wedding venue with a striking monochrome interior, plush furnishings and views across the Cambridgeshire countryside. A delightfully elegant and enticing space, Swynford Manor is fast becoming a popular and versatile wedding venue, licensed for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies with up to 150 day and 220 evening guests.
See more local news in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.youreastanglian.wedding/free-download
Boutique wedding venue, Broadoaks Country House has been recognised as one of the top locations for couples to say ‘I do’ in Cumbria after being nominated at the County Brides North West Wedding Awards.
A Victorian manor house originally built in 1836, Broadoaks Country House is steeped in history and boasts a romantic charm that enables couples to enjoy the wedding of their dreams while overlooking the picturesque Lake District hills. Situated in five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, Broadoaks Country House offers five different areas for civil ceremonies, ranging from an intimate orangery through to an outdoor setting with views across Troutbeck and the surrounding valleys.
Sian Parry, the venue manager at Broadoaks Country House, tells us: “The Broadoaks Country House team works incredibly hard to ensure each and every wedding exceeds the expectations of our couples, whether hosting a small, intimate celebration or a larger party. We are delighted that our beautiful venue and the dedication of our team have been recognised by the prestigious County Brides North West Wedding Awards, and we feel this certainly affirms our position as one of Cumbria’s locations of choice to tie the knot. We now wish all other finalists the best of luck and look forward to celebrating at the awards ceremony next spring.”
Read more local news in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournorthwest.wedding/free-download
Alice and Stuart became Mr and Mrs Tyler on 1st August 2024 at Houchins. Their florist, https://veritymarston.co.uk was absolutely amazing. She decorated archways in the aisle with flowers and made hanging displays for the tables outside. See more of this wedding at: An Essex Wedding - January/February 2025 (Issue 120)
Canonteign Falls near Exeter in Devon is mome to one of England's highest waterfalls, Canonteign Falls is a magnificent example of a Victorian folly set in 90 acres of ancient woodland and estate land on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park in Devon. The waterfalls themselves descend over 70 metres through ferns and woods. At the base of the falls, the woodland gives way to meadows and lakes, making this one of the most spectacular venues in Devon. Read all about it in the latest issue available to download now for FREE!
Looking to head to sunnier climes this year for the honeymoon of a lifetime? Read my review of the fabulous TRS Ibiza Hotel on page 92 of the latest issue available now to download for FREE – what a fashionable choice for a honeymoon!
Kate and Dan met at school. “Dan spent the next 10 plus years chasing after me,” says Kate. “We have been friends since secondary school but have been dating for the past eight years.”
Dan popped the question during a birthday trip to Iceland. “He booked a trip to see the Northern Lights in November 2022 and proposed to me on a beach at sunset in front of a lighthouse,” shares the bride. “It was a complete surprise and I only had the first idea something was up when he asked a group of girls to take a photograph of us both, as we never take photos together!”
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.youreastanglian.wedding/free-download
Sarah and Jack first crossed paths in 2017. “I began frequenting the rugby club where my best friend Amy worked,” says Sarah. “Jack played rugby at the time and I then started working at the club myself. It was love at first sight. Jack asked me on a date and then to be his girlfriend five days later. I loved everything about Jack, not just his amazing eyes and the fact he was tall but his nature. Jack is a protector and a provider and I found it so attractive.”
Jack popped the question in October 2022. “I had a feeling it was coming – little clues like people telling me I should get nude nails and not the nail art I would normally get,” shares the bride. “He had planned for us to go to Beadnell Coast in Northumberland with our dog Bubba, so I had assumed that is where he would do it. The day before, I had had a terrible day at work, so he suggested that we get some takeaway pizzas, take the dog for a walk and eat them out of the boot whilst watching the sunset. I was in a terrible mood and changed the plans 100 times. We eventually got out of the car and started to walk Bubba on the moors near our home. Before we had even gotten 10 meters, Jack got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Just me, him and Bubba.”
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournorthwest.wedding/free-download
Fall in love with this ethereal styled shoot at Candleston Woods that features a team of talented suppliers.
See more from the shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yoursouthwales.wedding/free-download
Love It Again Bridal is a home-based bridal boutique in Maidstone, specialising in pre-loved wedding and occasion wear. “Very often when purchasing pre-loved, the bridal experience is often sidelined, but we believe that every bride is deserving of a bridal experience, no matter their budget, size or lifestyle choice,” says owner Eve Gardner. “We decided to base our shoot around the budget wedding theme, highlighting that you can still have a glamorous wedding without compromising on quality or style. Our venue of choice was our friends at The Friars, for whom we are recommended suppliers. It’s a truly stunning location, set in tranquil surroundings. With summer in mind, we opted for a blush pink and sage theme. Our model wore a simple, white, elegant gown by Whistles, which was paired with a pre-loved bridesmaid’s dress from a popular high street brand complemented with traditional bridal make-up by Emz Makeup Artist. The mother-of-the-bride wore a blush pink summer dress with a matching hat, shoes and bag, and we opted for simple white dresses for our flowergirls, one of which is from our collection; the other, plus the outfit our cheeky little page boy wore, were outfits they already owned.
“No bridal look is complete without blooms and Linsey at Stag Cottage Flowers created bouquets that reflected our colour palette with a feminine touch. Finishing the look were flower crowns for the flowergirls. Moving onto the reception, we were joined by the incredibly creative Mercedes at 4YaParty Weddings & Events. Matching our concept perfectly, her styling oozed elegance and her love letters created an intimate ambience. Completing the look was stationery by Natalie at NK Calligraphy. Each place name was skilfully handwritten and the floral detailing on the menu cards perfectly matched the flowers in the bouquet.
“No wedding reception would be complete without a wedding cake and the talented Julie at Julie Walker Luxury Cakes provided just that. Her beautifully crafted cake brought an excellent contrast to our blush tones, with a modern but rustic twist.”
See more from the shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Teresa Ottmann from Simply Rustic believes the rustic trend is going nowhere for 2025. She says, "It blends in with natural, outdoorsy weddings perfectly - and has the eco-friendly characteristics couples are all here for. Instead of pairing with lace, people are going bolder! Think geometric shapes - such as our hexagonal arch, and even the addition of disco balls!"
This winter, cosy up in the heart of the Buckinghamshire countryside at the luxuriously relaxing Horwood House for some much-needed pampering. Guests can enjoy Horwood House's H Spa with its indoor pool, steam and sauna. Download the latest issue for FREE to read all about it.
Are you dreaming of sunnier days and a summer wedding where you and your guests can enjoy glamping facilities? Lydcott Glamping located in Widegates, Cornwall has recently entered the wedding market, offering intimate weddings that are bespoke to each couple. The outdoorsy, rustic-inspired venue boasts stunning surroundings with far-flung views stretching across the fields and out to sea. Read all about it in the latest issue available to download now for FREE!
Originally established in 2015 as Pheasant Catering, Holland Hospitality is relaunching the brand, bringing fresh opportunities and innovative catering solutions to East Anglia. “At Holland Hospitality, we believe that every event deserves exceptional food and service,” says the team. “Driven by a passion for culinary excellence and a commitment to outstanding service, we have built a reputation for creating memorable moments. Our journey began with a vision to elevate event catering, and we’ve since expanded our offerings to include a diverse range of services, from weddings and corporate events to private dining and bar hire.
“What sets us apart is our commitment to exceptional, personal service. Our experienced team ensures that every detail is managed seamlessly, allowing you to enjoy your event without worry. From our catering event manager overseeing the day to our skilled chefs and attentive waiting team, we are here to bring your vision to life. Additionally, our wedding coordinator service ensures your special day is executed flawlessly.
“At Holland Hospitality, we prioritise quality, creativity and personalisation. We source fresh, local ingredients and focus on innovative dishes that reflect seasonal flavours and your preferences. Our friendly staff are trained to provide exceptional service, making sure your event runs smoothly from start to finish.
“As we embark on this new journey as Holland Hospitality, we look forward to connecting with venues and clients who share our passion for outstanding hospitality. We invite you to join us in creating unforgettable moments filled with great food, laughter and joy.”
Head over to our Catering feature in the current issue to meet more local caterers. Download your free copy at www.youreastanglian.wedding/free-download
Make-up artist, Felicity from Ashby Artistry shares her wedding trend predictions for 2025.
"Radiance and glowing skin are taking centre stage right now, and I can tell you confidently that this won’t be going anywhere anytime soon. It’s become a huge trend because it’s achieving the feeling that nearly every single one of us dreams of having on our wedding day. That sense of pure contentment, glee and that ethereal sparkle.
"The beginning of this trend was born with the glass skin created by make-up artist Pat McGrath for the Maison Margiela Paris Fashion Week. But it has snowballed into so much more. It is now so relatable and easy for all of us to play and experiment with. It opened the conversation that it’s good to have fun with your appearance!
"Trends are, by nature, fleeting; what’s celebrated today could feel overdone tomorrow. Radiant skin and glowing shoulders currently add a dreamy touch to your wedding look, but there’s something even more powerful: a look that highlights you in all your individuality, quirks and unique beauty. So, instead of building your wedding look around the trend of the year, why not create a look that feels quintessentially you?"
See more of the latest trends in our Looking Your Best feature in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournorthwest.wedding/free-download