www.yourbristolsomerset.wedding £3.55 HONEYMOONS, BEAUTY, FASHION, GROOMS, EXPERT ADVICE, FREEBIES AND MORE FEB/MAR 2022 WIN! Our A-Z of wedding catering ideas Come dine with us £1,500 worth of diamonds TAKE THE PLUNGE ROMANTIC REFLECTIONS The region's waterside venues Daring necklines Ta-da! Fabulous finishing touches
REGULARS 7 EDITOR’S LETTER A very warm welcome from Kelly 8 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on the latest from around the region 13 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs 63 HOT TOPIC Stellar wedmin advice from those in the know 97 COMPETITION Win £1,500 worth of diamonds CONTENTS FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022 VENUES 15 SPOTLIGHT ON… Taunton Deane & West Somerset 21 ROMANTIC REFLECTIONS Our roundup of the region’s loveliest waterside venues On the cover This issue’s cover shot of gorgeous real bride Jade was captured at Coombe Lodge by www.joabsmithphotography.co.uk. Turn to page 26 to find out all about the day she married Harry. 57 21 FEATURES 51 TA-DA! Finishing touches with flair 57 COME DINE WITH US Get a direct line to your guests’ hearts with our A to Z of wedding catering ideas 89 LET ME EAT CAKE! County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey https://amysanders.co.uk 3
REAL WEDDINGS 26 YOU’RE MY WORLD A love of travel and adventure brought Jade and Harry together, so the theme for their wedding was an easy choice 33 LAKESIDE LOVE Kiana and Simon’s big-day palette complemented their autumn date to perfection 39 A FLORAL FANTASY When the bride is a florist and she has a castle venue as her playground the results are nothing short of spectacular 45 THE GREEN GRASS OF HOME Kayley and George hosted their big day at the groom’s family farm HONEYMOONS 93 HONEYMOON NEWS A round up of new openings and honeymoon essentials GROOMS 84 GROOMS’ NEWS All the latest best buys and product launches 86 GOING FOR GOLD After James Bond, AKA Daniel Craig, rocked a velvet jacket at the latest 007 premier we knew this look would be here to stay! FASHION & BEAUTY 67 FASHION FOCUS Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals her latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches 69 ALL IN THE DETAIL The 2022 wedding dress collections feature figure-hugging styles, timeless trumpet silhouettes, chic tailored jackets and wrap dresses 75 TAKE THE PLUNGE These opulent gowns feature corset-inspired looks, off-the-shoulder styles, timeless square shapes and cut-out illusion necklines 78 FASHION AND BEAUTY Q&A Look and feel your big-day best with help from the professionals 80 BEAUTY BUZZ Beauty editor Kelly Andrews reveals all the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be 83 HEAVEN SCENT Team CWM try out the latest bridal fragrance recommendations 75 33 80 45 www.kellyweechphotography.com www.fearphotography.com 4
Your Perfect Venue Situated in beautiful Somerset and surrounded by the Mendip Hills, this stunning country retreat can be all yours for your special day. Our ultimate desire is for you to enjoy your special day so we have created the perfect setting, with superb cuisine and impeccable service, allowing our devoted staff to provide everything that you need to make your wedding, truly wonderful and unforgettable. Seeing is believing so we would love to invite you to join us for a showaround, allowing you to experience the hotel for yourself. This will also allow you meet with one of our Wedding Coordinators, who will happily discuss your requirements further so please, contact us at any time on events.charltonhousehotel@bannatyne.co.uk or call 01749 342008 to organise a time to suit you. C H A R L T O N H O U S E H O T E L , S O M E R S E T Charlton Rd, Glastonbury, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PR
From Leigh Court up in the North, down to The Old Milking Parlour in the South, Crowcombe Court in the West all the way across to Wick Farm in the East - we have your perfect venue. There's over 110 to choose from in Somerset & North Somerset to fit every budget and guest list. The hardest part is narrowing down the shortlist! Country Houses? We have them. Farms and barns? We have those too. Castles? We have that covered as well. You want something quirky? How about Wookey Hole Caves, The Grand Pier in Weston or Haynes Motor Museum. Whatever kind of wedding venue you are looking for, our directory is the ONLY one to list every single licensed venue in the district so you won't miss out on any hidden gems. Our ceremony team are all trained, professional celebrants who are passionate about making your legal ceremony the most wonderful, memorable, unique event. Wedding jitters and butterflies? Don't worry - you're in safe hands. Make your booking request online via our website and our team will call you back to chat about availability, answer all your burning questions and make sure your registrar is booked for your special day. Simple! You want to know if you can say your vows outdoors, or have your four legged BFF walk you down the aisle? Our website has a whole host of FAQs that should make everything clearer. Costs, ceremony planning forms, and the allimportant link to book your notice of marriage appointment - it's all there at your fingertips. (And the answer to those questions are "quite possibly yes" and "probably, as long as it's not a tiger or something!!") Say I Do In Somerset www.somersetweddingservice.org.uk Leigh Court - Dominika Scheibinger Crowcombe Court - James & Kerrie Wick Farm - Ryan Goold The Old Milking Parlour
Welcome to the first Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding magazine for 2022! For those of you tying the knot this year, January 1st will have marked a significant milestone as you draw ever closer to the big day. How’s your planning going? If you find you’ve got a little bit of extra budget for those amazing finishing touches, you won’t want to miss one page as there’s inspiration aplenty as always. As you know, I’m going to be a bridesmaid for my friend and fellow CWM editor, Melissa, in July and it’s taken her this long to talk her other half, Dave, into booking a photo booth. This was actually thanks to another of our gorgeous colleagues, social media coordinator Beth who hired one for her big day, and we were barely out of it all evening! So, these super-cool elements are well worth looking into if you can. The other thing I’ve learned since I last spoke to you is on the topic of shopping for bridesmaids’ dresses. Speaking from experience I can tell you that for your best gals, choosing that perfect dress for the big day could be almost, if not equally, as important to them as finding yours was to you. You’ve asked them to be part of this enormous occasion in your life and in all likelihood, they’ll want to give the best account of themselves as they support you. So, inspired by the unbelievably patient and all-round diamond Melissa, my advice is this: be kind. Perhaps they’ve got body confidence issues, perhaps they’re feeling the pressure – don’t leave it to the last minute, allow them as much time as possible to make their decision. You love your bride tribe, that’s why you asked them to be by your side. If you want them to feel comfortable and enjoy the day alongside you, helping them to feel their bigday best too will go a long way towards that. Oh, and don’t forget to have bags of fun along the way! To celebrate the wonder that is your bride tribe, I’ve gathered together my bridesmaid highlights from this issue’s bumper crop of fab real weddings. That’s all from me this issue, except to extend a very warm welcome to those of you who’ve recently said “yes” and are new to Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding. I hope you feel inspired by what you find here. Enjoy and keeeep planning! Kelly Andrews, editor In with the new 26 33 39 45 97 Kelly x ISSN 1755-4756 EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 kellya@county.wedding Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | Deputy Managing Editor and Beauty Editor Melissa Barker | Senior Editor, Grooms and Travel Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor DESIGN 01376 535 616 | artwork@county.wedding Graphic Designers | Sarah Hill Stephanie Hodder | Vicky O’Connor Production Assistant | Lorna Butcher Digital Marketing Coordinator Katie Laley Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley ADVERTISING Sales & Events Director Sarah Ellis | 01376 538 490 sarahe@county.wedding Account Manager Rebecca Cane | 020 4505 9853 rebeccac@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing. 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 Bristol & Somerset Wedding is published six times a year. Subscription rates are £18.20 per annum (incl. p+p). Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing and sent to Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. @CountyWeddingMagazines @CountyWeddings @cwm_wedding Visit us online at county.wedding and countyweddingevents.com cwe COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS WIN! £1,500 WORTH OF DIAMONDS! www.joabsmithphotography.co.uk www.kellyweechphotography.com www.terrierosephotography.com www.fearphotography.com EDITOR’S LETTER 7
NEWS Nearlywed Catch up on the latest from around the region AND THE WINNER IS... The winners of the South West Wedding Awards were announced recently and the recipient of the accolade for ‘Something Different’ was Somerton-based The Flower Preservation Workshop. We asked business owner Rachel Ruddle how she felt about receiving such recognition, she told us, “We won! I’m absolutely blown away to even be a finalist for this award, but to win... I’m lost for words, possibly a first! Despite knowing how amazing my team is, each time I send out an order I still worry that it might not meet our clients’ expectations. We’ve completed thousands of orders and I still have this feeling. We’re so passionate about our work and to be recognised for an award is just amazing. Thank you to everyone who voted for us, we couldn’t have achieved this without your support.” The South West Wedding Awards recognise businesses within the industry that exceed their customers’ expectations and deliver outstanding customer service. They are voted for by the public, rather than a team of panellists, so to receive one is quite the honour. Flower Preservation Workshop specialises in designing handmade floral paperweights, which perfectly preserve clients’ wedding flowers allowing them to be treasured forever. To find out more check out www.flowerpreservationworkshop.co.uk SHOP SUSTAINABLY Bristol-based independent business Prior Shop has been awarded Best High Street Shop in Holly & Co.’s National Independent Awards. This is a game-changer for the team who are hugely proud of their achievement. The shop brings locallymade sustainable products from 150 independent businesses to the high street. Founder Beck says, “We’re a haven for artists and designers and in being so, a haven for customers. When local artists, designers and makers are supported, given opportunities and their voices championed, the whole community wins.” All products are vetted for their sustainable credentials and circular economy. So, if you’re aiming to keep your big-day, as well as your future, environmentallyconscious while shopping local check out the website www.priorshop.uk. You’ll find gorgeous meaningful gift-list ideas, ideal wedding party gifts, big-day beauty, chic finishing touches, furnishings for your together home and more. FASHION FORWARD Located in the beautiful city of Bath, Krystle Brides offers an extensive range of gowns by some of the most soughtafter designers in the industry, the latest of which is the 2022 Blue by Enzoani collection. These modern and sexy wedding dresses range in price from £1,500 to £2,200 and showcase all the latest trends from sleeves to cape veils in the shape of form-fitting silhouettes and A-lines. Whether you’re looking for something embellished and showstopping or sleek and simple, there’s something here for everyone. You can check out all the dresses at www.enzoani.com/en/collections/blue-by-enzoani Krystle Brides recommends an appointment to ensure a fitting room is available for you, but it does also accept walkins. During your appointment, you and your entourage will be accompanied by a stylist who’ll get to know more about you and your wedding day, in order to assist in finding your dream dress. Head over to www.krystlebrides.co.uk to find out more. 8
SPEND A PENNY Toilets might not be the most glamorous part of your wedding planning, but if you’re hosting an al fresco event they’re pretty much the most important. And this is something that owners of Wight Event Toilets understand well. After years of attending music festivals and events Sam and Ollie Haines discovered a need in the market for high-end luxury toilet hire, allowing customers to experience some home-from-home comforts. The business has gone from strength to strength over the years and the significant expansion of the past couple in particular has brought it to a point where the vast majority of its work is wedding based. The company now has 32 luxury toilet trailers and four luxury shower trailers and operates within a 50-mile radius of Bath. Its new trailers, available now, are super-stylish and wrapped in a wood-style effect – the perfect fit for rustic nuptials with a festival-vibe. Plus, the team can cater for any size of wedding from 20 guests up to 3,000. Check out the full range of toilet and shower trailers on the website at www.wethire.co.uk HONEYMOON HEAVEN At time of writing the news is full of reports that Covid will likely be downgraded to endemic status before too long. And as we emerge from the roller coaster of the last couple of years resigned to the fact that it’s here to stay, we hope to see international travel back onto an even keel, and this issue’s couples have a terrific tip when it comes to a honeymoon hotspot: Venice. While the pandemic has thus far prevented Ruby and Adam jumping on a plane, the groom is in the process of planning a honeymoon trip to Venice this year for them both. Kayley and George meanwhile, managed to get away to The Floating City and had this to say about their romantic break: “We decided to book Venice as a very last minute mini-moon after the wedding. We were unsure how things how things would go due to Covid, hence the late decision! We booked through British Airways and off we went. My mum looked after the children and it was so lovely to have some time, just the two of us, to relax after a stressful couple of years planning a wedding during a pandemic. Venice was stunning. We stayed for three nights, which was the perfect amount of time to make sure we managed to see it all without rushing.” SUPER SATURDAY Traditionally, Super Saturday is the last one before Christmas when the less organised among us rush out to buy those allimportant gifts. But this year, Rookery Bridal have decided to rewrite the rules and host their very own version on 19th February 2022. The idea behind the event is that all those with a wedding fast approaching who haven’t yet found their dream dress can make an appointment to see the team and they’ll do their best to ensure they can get the one in time. What’s more, if you book an appointment for this event and end up ordering a gown, you’ll be given a 10 per cent discount. This offer is for the day only, so don’t miss out! Find out more and book an appointment at https://rookerybridal.co.uk Editor loves LOCAL NEWS 9
DATES FOR THE DIARY Spring is almost upon us, so it’s time to head out to the region’s wedding fairs and meet a wealth of fabulous local suppliers, primed and ready to help make your big-day dreams come true. CHOSEN WEDDING FAIR BRISTOL Sunday 20th February 2022 | 11am-4pm Paintworks Event Space, The Airstream Main Courtyards, Paintworks, Bristol, BS4 3EH Admission is £3 each when pre-booked online, or £4 each on the day. www.chosenwedding.com LOVE ACTUALLY M SHED WEDDING FAYRE Sunday 6th March 2022 | 11am-3pm Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN Free admission. www.loveactuallyweddings.co.uk TAUNTON SCHOOL WEDDING FAIR Sunday 27th March 2022 | 11am-3pm Staplegrove Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 6AD www.tauntonschool.co.uk WINNING WAYS The Wedding Industry Awards are the only regional and national accolades voted for by customers rather than a panel. They were set up to recognise excellence within our beloved industry and the hard work suppliers put into bringing their couples’ big-day visions come to life, very often going above and beyond the call of duty. There are a whole host of Bristol- and Somerset-based businesses making the finals of the South West region awards, which makes us super-proud. Check out our roundup below and keep your eyes peeled for the winners who’ll be announced on www.the-wedding-industry-awards.co.uk BRIDAL RETAILER Bridal Reloved Street, https://bridalreloved.co.uk/shops/street Curve Bridal, https://curvebridal.co.uk | Somerset Bridal, www.somersetbridal.co.uk | The White Collection, www.thewhitecollectionbridal.co.uk | White Lace & Promises, http://whitelaceandpromises.co.uk CAKE DESIGNER Cake Celebrations, www.cakecelebrations.co.uk CELEBRANT and NEWCOMER Amanda-Louise Knight Celebrant and Wedding Planner, www.alkcelebrant.co.uk DJ Encore Vision & Sound, https://encorevision.co.uk MAKE-UP ARTIST Aldona Francis Makeup Artist, www.aldonafrancis-makeupartist.co.uk Celfie Hair and Makeup, www.celfiehairandmakeup.co.uk | Jessica Mills Make-up, www.jessicamillsmakeup.co.uk | Rose Forrest Hair and Makeup, www.roseforrestmakeupartist.co.uk MUSICAL ACT (SOLO, DUO OR STRING QUARTET) Cotswold Wedding Guitarist, www.cotswoldweddingguitarist.co.uk John P Vocal, www.johnprescottvocalist.co.uk | Tip Top Singing Waiters, https://tiptopsingingwaiters.com PHOTOGRAPHER Albert Palmer Photography, https://albertpalmerphotography.com Jodie Hurd Photography, https://jodiehurdphotography.com PLANNER Radhika & You, https://radhikaandyou.com SPECIAL TOUCH Abigail Westrup Bridal, https://abigailwestrupbridal.com | Flower Preservation Workshop, www.flowerpreservationworkshop.co.uk Rebecca Anne Designs, www.rebeccaannedesigns.co.uk VENUE (OTHER) Aldwick Estate, www.aldwickestate.co.uk | Crowcombe Court, www.crowcombecourt.co.uk 10
Georgie’s Petals Bespoke floral designer WEDDINGS | Bridal Bouquets | Flower Crowns | Flower Wands Button Holes | Flower Baskets | Flower Arch - to hire Table Arrangements | Corsages | Ladies Pin Holes | Pew ends/Chair ends Jam Jars | Cake Flowers Somerset based but delivery/set up avaialble facebook.com/georgiespetals/ 07931268267 | georgiespetals31@gmail.com Cindy Kitchker Photography Batch Country House, Lympsham, Nr. Weston-super-Mare, Somerset BS24 0EX Tel: 01934 750371 Email: info@batchcountryhouse.co.uk www.batchcountryhouse.co.uk The Ideal Venue for Wedding Receptions The Batch Country House specialises in weddings due to its beautiful location. The landscaped gardens offer the perfect backdrop to your photographs. DaniellaMarinos Photography B E A U T I F U L E L E G A N T W E D D I N G P H O T OG R A P H Y P R EM I UM , D E L U X E AND S U P E R D E L U X E BE S POKE PACKAGE S AVA I L AB L E Professional, natural documentary style photography to capture those special moments on your big day. Call: 01453 297528 or 07720 230977 Email: info@daniellamarinosphotography.com www.daniellamarinosphotography.com Handmade wedding rings Fairtrade and recycled Remodelling and repairs Wedding jewellery www.christinaoswin.co.uk 20A Cheap Street, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1BN 01373 472505 Photo Credit: Celia Mannings
flowerpreservationworkshop@gmail.com CONTACT US TODAY TO BOOK OUR SERVICES 07825653308 | 01458 274325 WWW.FLOWERPRESERVATIONWORKSHOP.CO.UK capturing your wedding flowers forever within a beautiful paperweight or piece of jewellery Flower P R E S E R V A T I O N W O R K S H O P Wedding Flower Paperweights NATIONWIDE SERVICE View our New Special offers online! Our new 6” paperweight range
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER VIA OUR WEBSITE. Closing date 8th April 2022. Terms and conditions apply. ENDLESS LOVE Flower Preservation Workshop offers an ingenious way of turning your wedding flowers into a sentimental keepsake to treasure forever. Why not enlist the team to help keep your memories of the big day alive by capturing the blooms from your bridal bouquet in a bespoke, handmade paperweight. Every one is unique and created on site in Somerton by the team of florists who’ll devise the best design to show off your flowers. The blooms are first freeze dried, a careful process that takes 16 to18 weeks, before being preserved in their original 3D form. We’ve partnered with Flower Preservation Workshop to offer readers free return delivery on orders (usually £12). To claim, simply get in touch at flowerpreservationworkshop@gmail.com quoting “Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding” and you’ll be given an offer code, which will deduct the amount when you book. To learn more about preserving your wedding flowers check out the website www.flowerpreservationworkshop.co.uk Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs Freebies &OFFERS TO KNOW A VEIL Rookery Bridal is an independent boutique stocking an extensive selection of fashionforward, award-winning designer wedding dresses including collections by Justin Alexander, Essense of Australia, Paloma Bianca, Lillian West, Adriana Alier, Randy Fenoli, Romantica of Devon’s Sillouette Collection, Richard Designs, Twilight Designs, Onlyway, Tiffany’s Bridesmaids and Dessy. Shopping for that all-important gown can be a daunting experience, but don’t fret as the team aim to make you feel inspired and excited, welcoming you and your entourage with open arms. Plus, the carefully selected samples are available to try in a variety of sizes, so you need not have any concerns about your gorgeous figure. Years of experience mean the boutique’s consultants are experts in finding you a gown to make even the most dismayed feel joyous! We’ve teamed up with Rookery Bridal to offer readers a free veil up to the value of £150 with any purchase of a wedding gown during February and March (the offer applies to customers purchasing a gown from Rookery Bridal and will be added to the order at the time. It is not redeemable with any other offer and has no monetary value). To claim, simply quote “Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding” at time of purchase. For further information head over to https://rookerybridal.co.uk Coppa Club’s Sonning-On-Thames location plays host to The Great House at Sonning – a boutique hotel featuring 49 bedrooms and nestled in the Berkshire countryside. Roughly an hour from London, the property is situated along the River Thames and boasts a large terrace, sweeping lawns and ample riverside space. An ideal location for couples that need a break from the wedding planning, a family getaway or trip with friends, the beautifully designed hotel is dog friendly and provides meeting, event and party spaces (you can also tie the knot here!). You can book a cosy Double Room from £85 per night, or a Deluxe Double from £115 per night. Check out www.greathouseatsonning.co.uk County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Coppa Club, The Great House at Sonning to give readers the chance to win an overnight stay for two people with breakfast, as well as a three-course meal with a bottle of fizz! WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY FREEBIES & OFFERS 13
TAUNTON DEANE & WEST SOMERSET Spotlight on... Tie the knot in a local hotspot CROWCOMBE COURT 01984 618 752 | www.crowcombecourt.co.uk Crowcombe Court is a Grade I listed squire’s mansion located in the village of Crowcombe, around eight miles west of Taunton. The magnificent English Baroque-style house was built in the 1730s from beautiful amber coloured bricks with Bath stone for the pilasters and frontispiece. Set in the foothills of the Quantock Hills, the beautiful grounds boast many a stunning photographic backdrop from the lake to the croquet lawn. There’s also a wild woodland and guests are welcome to explore throughout the wedding celebrations. THE “I DOS” The Great Hall is a beautiful room for a civil ceremony and can seat up to 100 of your nearest and dearest. The intricate, original Italian plasterwork provides a grand and luxurious backdrop to your vows. What’s more, with flexibility in the room’s configuration you can set up the space just as you’d like it. The Carew Room is ideal for more intimate nuptials and is a wonderful option if adverse weather conditions render an outdoor ceremony impossible. However, if the sun is shining, the Gazebo is an option, overlooked by the Quantocks it offers a spectacular backdrop indeed. THE CELEBRATIONS The Victorian Ballroom offers a showstopping setting for your formal wedding breakfast and can seat up to 100 of your loved ones. With its high ceilings and stunning chandeliers, it’s a beautiful space. The venue’s maximum capacity for an evening do is 150. PLUS... Crowcombe has 11 bedrooms available for you and your guests with king-size beds and Edwardian furniture, each has its own en-suite bathroom with a variety of roll-top baths, baths and showers. The combination of bespoke in-house catering, a reasonably-priced wine list, the bar and dancing in the Vaulted Undercroft gives you plenty of exciting options when planning your big day. www.jamesandkerriephotography.co.uk www.emilyfairweatherphotography.co.uk LOCAL VENUES 15
PORLOCK VILLAGE HALL 01643 863 117 | www.pvh.org.uk Set at the foot of the famous Porlock Hill, Porlock Village Hall is located at the West of the village overlooking the Bristol Channel. It’s a 100-yearold building that allows you to really stamp your own mark on it, with plenty of hooks and beams to put up decorations, hang lights and drapes and create a one-of-a-kind venue at an affordable price. THE CELEBRATIONS Receptions are held in the Large Hall, which can seat 100 loved ones around tables, with a stage at one end and a lighting gallery at the other. It also offers access to the changing rooms below. The Small Hall on the other hand, can accommodate 60 nearest and dearest. It’s a useful size for drinks receptions, or laying out the buffet table with access to the kitchen and bar area, which has a glass washer and wine cooler. OLD BRIDGE 01460 240 855 | www.old-bridge.co.uk The 16th-century manor and mature gardens can provide an idyllic backdrop to your entire day. Built from the local honey-coloured ham stone, the Elizabethan house is close to the marquee and integral to the whole ambience. The gardens are dominated by a massive 400-year-old sweet chestnut, and boast formal lawns, rose beds and colourful borders. There’s also a wooded area complete with gravel paths and a small stream, which can be utilised in your photos. The gardens are available to be enjoyed and used as you wish. Garden games, bouncy castle, street food, ice cream van, garden furniture, a picture story through the trees, jam jars and tea lights are all ideas that couples have brought to these surroundings. THE “I DOS” Ceremonies can take place throughout the year in the Great Hall, seating 75. If the weather is kind, the front porch is also licensed so any number of guests could enjoy the open air while witnessing the formalities taking place before them. THE CELEBRATIONS The marquee can host receptions from May to September, with a seating capacity of up to 200 for the wedding breakfast. You can then welcome an additional 50 loved ones for the evening do, taking full capacity up to 250. It’s fully-lined, heated and carpeted with a bar, dancefloor, stage and tables and chairs ready for you to decorate and bring your theme to life. PLUS... You’ll have access at least one day before and after too as the venue never books back-to-back events. You’re also granted complete freedom to arrange your own catering and music. There are no VAT or corkage charges, so you won’t encounter any unexpected hidden costs. 16
info@old-bridge.co.uk • old-bridge.co.uk • 01460 240855 Create Your Perfect Day • Licensed for weddings all year in the Great Hall or outside • Exclusive use of marquee and gardens from May to September • Ample adjacent level parking for guests • Freedom to arrange your food, drinks and entertainment • No corkage or VAT Your Party, Done Your Way • Ceremony room sits up to 75, unlimited numbers if outside • Marquee seats up to 200 people • Dance floor, tables and chairs lighting and heating included • Discreet equipped catering area and fully staffed bar provided • In between Yeovil and Taunton with easy access to the A303 YOU ARE INVITED TO OUR... Your educated choice for weddings... You’ll have the opportunity to explore our brand new Densham Wedding Suite, on-site Chapel, beautiful grounds and meet Somerset’s best wedding suppliers. Sunday 27th March 2022 11am - 3pm Entry is FREE and will include a welcome drink and canapés to all guests as well as goody bags with secret VIP prizes. Register for your free ticket here: www.ticketsource.co.uk/tauntonschool Wedding Fair
01454 355012 | WEDDINGS@MERCUREBRISTOL.CO.UK MERCURE BRISTOL NORTH THE GRANGE | 1 OLD GLOUCESTER ROAD | NORTHWOODS | WINTERBOURNE | BRISTOL | BS36 1RP | www.mercure.com Let us make your dreams a reality at Mercure Bristol North The Grange We would love to hear f rom you, when making your wedding enquiry with us please quote WEDGRANGE22. If you conf irm your wedding for a date in 2022 or 2023 you will receive a complimentary arrival drinks package. 01454 355012 | E DINGS@ME IST L.CO.UK MERCURE BRISTOL N E | 1 L GLOUCESTER O D | T OODS | INTERBOURNE | BRISTOL | BS36 1RP | .mercure.c � at Mercure Bris t The Grange Located in Somerset’s beautiful Quantock Hills, Combe House Hotel provides the perfect exclusive-use venue to celebrate your Wedding Day. Our simple philosophy of ‘Your Day, Your Way’ ensures that you can include all your ideas, celebrate this most special day with family and friends, and make some unforgettable memories. COMBE HOUSE HOTEL, HOLFORD, BRIDGWATER, SOMERSET, TA5 1RZ Contact one of our team at Combe House | enquiries@combehouse.cp.uk | 01278 741382 Cindy Kitchker Photography Peter Huish Photography Cindy Kitchker Photography Cindy Kitchker Photography Cindy Kitchker Photography Cindy Kitchker Photography
DUNSTER TITHE BARN 07983 822 683 | www.dunstertithebarn.org.uk Dunster Tithe Barn might be ancient but it boasts all mod-cons! This vast structure with huge oak doors benefits from heated wooden and stone floors, a fully-equipped commercial kitchen, and a centrally-located bar. The venue’s linhay and extensive walled gardens are ideal for champagne, canapés and garden games, and are adjoined by the bower, well and dovecote. The folly Conygar Tower and Castle loom large, and to the north are extensive views across the Bristol Channel with nostalgic sounds of the steam railway to be heard from just a short distance away. THE “I DOS” The fully-beamed Medieval Main Hall with impressive oak doors and minstrels gallery hosts ceremonies for 120 guests. Alternatively, for more intimate “I dos,” the Club/Meeting Room can host 60. It’s more modern and carpeted, but is still beamed with newer timbers. THE CELEBRATIONS Receptions too are hosted in the Main Hall and Club/Meeting Room. Maximum dining capacity for the venue is 120 and 250 for an evening reception throughout. TAUNTON SCHOOL 01823 703 116 | www.tauntonschoolenterprises.co.uk/weddings Taunton School offers a range of beautiful wedding suites and a stunning on-site chapel. The venue boasts a fine range of 19th-century Gothic-style buildings, complemented by 20th- and 21st-century additions, including the new state-of-the-art Densham Suite; an impressive contemporary piece of architecture, perfect for larger weddings. Plus, there’s a team of dedicated and passionate planners with you every step of the way to support you in creating the wedding of your dreams. NORTH DOWN ORCHARD 07946 378 203 | www.northdownorchard.com With so many different spaces to choose from, this venue can cater for most budgets and tastes. Still very much a working farm, it also boasts plenty of beautiful orchards, wild flower meadows and intimate wooded areas. Alongside a network of local wedding suppliers, the team can offer you an idyllic outside space, providing you with a blank canvas on which to create the al fresco wedding of your dreams. www.dalecherryweddings.co.uk www.dalecherryweddings.co.uk https://dhwphotography.co.uk Also check out... 19 LOCAL VENUES
www.yarlingtonbarn.co.uk A stunning lakeside barn in the heart of Somerset Unique & Exclusive Yarlington Barn Maunsel House The Most Magnificent 13th Century Manor House exclusively yours for weddings & events Maunsel House The Most Magnificent 13th Century Manor House exclusively yours for weddings & events Maunsel House The ost Magnificent 13th Century Manor House exc usively you s for weddings & events Maunsel House The Most Magnificent 13th Century Manor House Exclusively yours for weddings & events www.maunselhouse.co.uk events@maunselhouse.co.uk 01278 661076 NORTH NEWTON, SOMERSET, TA7 0BU CLOSED FOR THE WINTER LUXURY SELF CATERING ACCOMMODATION IN SOMERSET THAT SLEEPS 20 This majestic, former Georgian rectory could be yours to enjoy for the perfect relaxed holiday with friends and family, a special celebration, an intimate wedding party or the ideal secluded venue for your corporate escape. The Grange is a luxurious house sleeping up to twenty two people in the heart of rural Somerset and offering a wide range of entertainment to suit all ages W W W . T H E G R A N G E S O M E R S E T . C O M 07921 064 398
ROMANTIC reflections Our roundup of the region’s waterside venues YARLINGTON BARN 01278 751 401 | www.yarlingtonbarn.co.uk Set in the heart of rural Somerset on a cider farm, Yarlington Barn is a versatile, family-run venue. Surrounded by apple orchards and lakes, it also boasts a woodland backdrop complete with a gorgeous rose-clad gazebo. Whatever the time of year, whether it be the frost of winter, the apple blossom of the spring, the smell of cut grass in the summer or the colours of autumn, it’s a beautiful and exclusive venue. Inside the rustic barn, exposed beams and wrought iron chandeliers add a touch of countryside magic and the unusual barrel bar reflects its heritage as a cider farm. The barn is licensed for civil ceremonies and can seat up to 80 of your nearest and dearest for the vows. The main function space, the Lakeview Room, can accommodate up to 80 for a sit-down formal wedding breakfast at round tables of eight or 10. It has a fully-stocked bar and being a cider farm it can certainly provide Somerset’s favourite tipple! For evening celebrations, the barn can host up to 160 loved ones for a hog roast or buffet with disco and dancing. www.nickwilliamsphotography.co.uk WATERSIDE VENUES 21
THE BISHOP’S PALACE AND GARDENS, WELLS 01749 988 111 | www.bishopspalace.org.uk Steeped in history, The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens sits at the heart of the Medieval city of Wells, Somerset. Whether you arrive by car or a relaxed stroll across the drawbridge, as you make your way through the arch of the ancient gatehouse you’ll be greeted by breath-taking views of this stunning, 800-year-old building. The venue boasts 14 acres of immaculately kept gardens for you and your loved ones to enjoy. With the moat surrounding the Palace offering the tranquil sounds of flowing water, the stunning backdrop of Wells Cathedral, a picturesque willow bridge and an abundance of glorious seasonal planting, this really is a beautiful spot in which to host your celebrations. Receptions are hosted in the Medieval Undercroft. A magical location, it can seat 120 for your wedding breakfast or accommodate 160 for buffet-style dining. Round tables come as standard, but the space is versatile, so hiring long banqueting tables is an option. You’re sure to enjoy good food, whichever dining style you opt for as the venue works with a great range of suppliers to ensure excellent quality and locallysourced ingredients. Following the speeches and cake-cutting, you can all retire to the Portrait Gallery for coffee and cake. Relax and take time to enjoy a more informal time with your guests, while the team expertly transform the Undercroft into your evening venue. Whether you choose live music or a DJ you can chill and enjoy festivities knowing that everything is taken care of. WATERSIDE COUNTRY BARN 01823 461 817 | www.watersidecountrybarn.com A hidden gem surrounded by fields with panoramic views of the stunning countryside, this is a charming and romantic barn venue. The grounds feature onsite glamping accommodation across four units sleeping up to 10, each with its own firepit. The site itself is surrounded by the River Tone, with a beautiful lake at its heart and abundant wildlife. The setting offers a gorgeous backdrop for those all-important photos and there’s even a row boat, giant tree swing and old red tractor for some fun shots. Al fresco “I dos” take place on the decking overlooking the Emerald Lake and Willow Tree Island. There’s space here for 180 of your loved ones. Indoors, the Waterside Country Barn can accommodate 160 and offers a blank canvas allowing you to create a personal setting for such an important moment. The Barn is also the spot where celebrations are held for 180 seated and 200 standing. It’s open plan, which means it’s easy for everyone to stay together on your special day and boasts exposed beams. The venue offers a free wine-tasting session and discounted rates if you’d like to stay and trial the on-site accommodation ahead of the big day. Accommodation is included in wedding packages for two nights and up to 10 guests. www.jonpetersphotography.co.uk www.murrayfreestone.com 22
WATERSIDECOUNTRYBARN.COM | 01823 461 817 | Photography by Murray Freestone murray@murrayfreestone.com SOMERSET’S BEST KEPT SECRET NEWLY APPOINTED LAKESIDE WEDDING VENUE IN THE HEART OF SOMERSET
Bristol Road, Falfield, South Gloucestershire GL12 8DL 01454 260502 weddings@thegablesbristol.co.uk www.thegablesbristol.co.uk Set in a rural location on the edge of the Cotswolds, The Gables Hotel is a family-owned and run hotel which offers a delightful setting for civil ceremonies and wedding receptions for up to 140 day time and 200 evening guests. Our All Inclusive Wedding Package starts at £3,050 in 2022 and £3,200 in 2023 and includes a welcome drink, a three course meal with a glass of sparkling wine for the toasts, an evening finger buffet, room hire, complimentary overnight stay for the couple and much more! Based on 50 adult day guests and 80 adult evening guests. Sunday 6th March 2022 11am to 2pm | Free Entry Just 20 minutes from the centre of Bristol, we are totally dedicated to making your party a memorable one - all at a great price. Why not give clay pigeon shooting a go? Whether you are a sure shot or couldn’t hit a barn door, you’ll be expertly taught on our 5 shooting stand layouts. Off road Karting with purpose built track with jumps & quad trail also on site. Looking for an exciting action packed corporate activity day out with colleagues or an exciting Stag and Hen day for friends? Micro-chip timing now on karts. Established since 1992. Please see our website for more details. CONTACT US 01275 842225 info@westonlodgeshootingground.co.uk
ROMAN BATHS & PUMP ROOM 01225 477786 | www.bathvenues.co.uk Situated at the heart of the World Heritage Site, the Roman Baths & Pump Room is without doubt one of the most distinctive buildings in the country. The award-winning complex is steeped in history, with its origins dating back 2,000 years. A non-weather dependent venue, it’s open to the elements, yet suitable for weddings as shelter is provided by the soffits of the terrace above. There are further undercover areas such as the East Baths and plunge pool, which form part of the museum by day. The hot baths, which yield around 1,200,000 litres of water daily at a constant 46˚C are surrounded by the original ancient paving. It’s here that ceremonies take place either in the morning or evening, overlooked by the beautiful Bath Abbey. What could be more magical than exchanging your vows before sipping champagne on 2,000-yearold paving with flaming torches reflected in the thermal waters? You can choose to have no guests at all for a special elopement experience, but there are airy rooms available in which to entertain loved ones. Sunrise ceremonies take place at 8.30am and are followed by a champagne breakfast in the grand Pump Room restaurant for 60 nearest and dearest. The Pump Room is Grade I listed and was a social hub for Georgian society, famously frequented by Jane Austen. It’s an elegant space boasting tall windows, Corinthian columns and a glittering chandelier. Sunset ceremonies are held at 7.30pm before you enjoy drinks beside the Great Bath with further celebrations on the Terrace overlooking it and in the Reception Hall for 40 to 160 guests. Alternatively, you may hire the whole venue including Pump Room, Reception Hall and Terrace with capacity of 290. Evening hire isn’t available from midJune to the end of August. HASELBURY MILL 01460 77095 | www.haselburymill.co.uk Set in 14 acres of picturesque gardens and parkland, Haselbury Mill is a stunning venue for al fresco weddings. Say “I do” in The Lakeside with views over the scenic lake, in The Tithe Barn or The Apple Loft. HORNSBURY MILL 01460 63317 | www.hornsburymill.co.uk Ceremonies take place in either the atmospheric candlelit Cornloft or outside in the Gazebo beside the lake complete with a fountain. The Lakeside Suite is ideal for celebrations, which seats 130 for the wedding breakfast and can welcome 200 for the evening bash. THE HIDDEN LAKE info@thehiddenlake.co.uk | https://thehiddenlake.co.uk As you turn into the venue’s tree-lined drive you’ll immediately fall in love with the views of Cothelstone Manor and the rolling Quantock Hills. Further down you’ll discover the lake – private and secluded it’s nestled in an area of outstanding natural beauty. THE ROYAL HOTEL 01934 423 100 | www.royalhotelweston.com Located in Weston-super-Mare, The Royal Hotel is a traditional, family-owned seafront hotel, a short walk from many of the town’s attractions, including the Winter Gardens Pavilion, the beach and the Grand Pier Also check out... https://bhaveshchauhanphotography.co.uk https://amysanders.co.uk 25 WATERSIDE VENUES
YOU’RE MY world A love of travel and adventure brought Jade and Harry together, so the theme for their wedding was an easy choice Images courtesy of Joab Smith Photography 26
Jade and Harry met at university. Harry played rugby and Jade was part of the cheerleading team. Romance blossomed when they spent 22 hours in each other’s company on a coach trip through Europe on the university’s annual sports holiday. They made the most of the long hours on the road discovering a common love of films, travelling and generally enjoying life. Jade says, “Our dates were full of laughter and we always seemed to accidentally have that extra bottle of wine! Travelling and exploring the world is something that we both absolutely love to do and we regularly find ourselves planning our next adventure together.” Having decided they’d spend New Year 2019 in another country, Harry suggested Cyprus knowing he’d be able to propose in Jade’s favourite spot, The Natural Bridge of Koraka (Lover’s Bridge) at Cape Greco. Following a stressful journey through security with Harry hiding the ring and Jade nursing an NYE hangover, the proposal was a complete surprise. Harry even managed to set up his GoPro and captured the whole thing on camera for posterity. Join us now as bride Jade shares her treasured memories of the big day, 10th July 2021... LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Having always been set on the idea of tying the knot at a country-house venue, the couple fell in love with Coombe Lodge in an instant, along with its views of Cheddar Gorge and the Bristol Channel. “As we made our way through the grounds up to the building there was a sense of a timeless mystique making us feel as though we were walking through a fairy tale,” Jade explains. The opportunity for an outdoor ceremony beneath the beautiful sandstone arches was also a major draw. “The guest rooms were exceptional with many having standalone baths and floods of natural light,” the bride recalls. What’s more, nothing was too much trouble for the venue’s team and any idea the couple discussed with them was met with a warmth and eagerness to oblige. SETTING THE SCENE “We both love a party, so there was only one choice of favour for us – the beloved shot,” Jade laughs. They opted for limoncello, which is a favourite with both of them from their travels to Venice. The favours were used to raise a toast at the end of Harry’s speech with a hearty: “Yamas!” (“Cheers” in Greek Cypriot). Wanting to share with guests all of the beautiful places the couple have visited together they selected a table plan design entitled: “Where in our world are you sitting?” In a bid for chic simplicity place names were etched onto clear acrylic. The table names too shared a travel theme, named after favourite holiday destinations. Love Bridge was a natural choice for the top table. Each one was paired with a Polaroid of the couple in the corresponding location. Florist Stephanie Saunders created a combination of candelabra ball displays with a cluster of bud vases, and jars filled with flowers and candles to create varying heights across the space. Blooms included coral peonies mixed with white avalanche roses, eucalyptus and lisianthus. The bridal bouquet was a teardrop shape featuring white flowers with coral tones, broken up with foliage. Harry’s buttonhole was a single white rose finished with lisianthus and foliage. “Walk around during the wedding breakfast.We were served first and had time to chat to our guests. It meant that we had a memory with every single person without worrying about finding people on the dancefloor.” – Harry REAL WEDDINGS 27
C H A I R C O V E R S of Br i s to l and Bath We supply the finishing touches to weddings, items to bring the colour theme together, give the wow factor when your guests walk into the room.We supply chair covers and a wide variety of sashes to cover the venue’s chairs which are very often dull, wrong colour and frankly in need of covering! Many props to be useful or just bring some fun to your wedding! Wedding arch adorned with silk flowers and carpet aisle runner makes any bride feel special when she walks down the aisle towards her partner. C H A I R C O V E R S O F B R I S T O L A N D B AT H . C O . U K 07768625868 | info@chaircoversofbristolandbath.co.uk Beautiful weddings all year www.longhouseweddings.co.uk call Matt 07855 361 652 www.stevelewisphoto.co.uk info@stevelewisphoto.co.uk 07779134116 It is a privilege to witness, observe, anticipate and capture the moments that convey love, emotion and happiness.
FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD After the ceremony guests were served canapés of confit duck fritter with chilli and soy, wild mushroom and taleggio arancini, and sesame halloumi bites with chilli jam. For the wedding breakfast, there was a choice of two delicious options, as well as an additional one for those with dietary requirements. The starter was spring pea and pancetta soup or ham hock terrine with piccalilli. For the main, the couple opted for a more traditional choice of chargrilled Somerset chicken breast or seared beef, and the finale was a crème brûlée with fresh raspberries or a milk chocolate and pistachio parfait. Much to the chagrin of Jade’s mum, the duo chose a cheese tower over a traditional sweet showstopper. The six-tier tower of all that’s right with the world was expertly curated with the assistance of The Cheeseworks, and it was served along with a hog board and selection of accompaniments in the evening. LOOKING THE PART Jade wore a Morilee gown, which was the complete opposite to the style she thought she wanted. “Once it was on, I didn’t want to take it off. It felt timeless,” she says. The bride accessorised with a lace and diamanté belt and a cathedral-length veil customised with the couple’s initials and wedding date. Having always dreamed of wearing Jimmy Choos on her wedding day she was finally able to invest in a dusky golden glitter pair after a summer of saving. She also wore a personalised lace garter with a small blue ribbon – her something blue – and a charm with initials and date. Personalisation is important to the pair, so they also chose to have their wedding rings engraved with their wedding date and title of their first dance song, The Wonder of You. Harry wore a grey three-piece morning suit channelling Connery’s Bond, with a dark navy tail jacket. His waistcoat was a deeper cut than the groomsmen’s and his tie was blue as opposed to their pink ones. The bridesmaids looked beautiful in high-neck blush maxi dresses with embellished waistbands. CELEBRATE IN STYLE A string quartet entertained guests during the afternoon with an impressive modern repertoire of hits from Beyonce and Avicii to Queen and AC/DC. In the evening, three-piece live band Renegades of Rock played covers of some of rock’s greatest songs. They performed two sets with a DJ set in between. “We had so many compliments from our guests on just how incredible they were,” Jade tells us. The newlyweds shared their first dance outside as the sun was setting. “We always say this moment was one small blessing following the pandemic, as without it our first dance would most likely have been inside,” Jade says. The photo booth too with its variety of props was a great hit. It provided unlimited photos with the wedding’s very own branded backdrop and also managed the guestbook. At the end of the evening all 12 guests staying overnight at Coombe Lodge retreated to a small living area upstairs for some final intimate drinks, which turned out to be one of the day’s highlights. MEMORABLE MOMENTS Jade tells us, “Surprisingly, my nerves seemed to vanish on the day and I remember feeling utterly calm and relieved that the day had finally arrived. I was so excited to marry Harry and couldn’t wait to see him standing at the end of the aisle, it was a moment we’d talked about for two years. I had the most amazing morning getting ready with my five bridesmaids, mum and stepmum.” Harry says, “I just felt excited from the moment I woke up. I couldn’t wait for the groomsmen and Jade’s dad to arrive for breakfast. The arrival of our guests was fantastic, we hadn’t seen many of them since before the pandemic, so the excitement of the day was boosted by the joy of being reunited. But the highlight of the day for me was the moment Jade turned the corner, arm in arm with her dad and I saw her in her beautiful dress. I was the last to see her and it’s an image I’ll never forget.” REAL WEDDINGS 29
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