TO REMEMBER Foodie tips and inspiration NOV/DEC 2025 £3.55 Signature SCENTS The ultimate fragrance roundup MYSTERY SOLVED Cut through the photography jargon WIN! A LUXURY MINI-MOON IN A CASTLE HOTEL A Feast CHESHIRE MERSEYSIDE & WEDDING
Let us make your wedding day, perfect To arrange a viewing or discuss your wedding plans with our dedicated team, get in touch: weddingsandevents@pearhospitality.co.uk A VENUE WITH HEART & HISTORY Nestled in the charming market town of Congleton, Cheshire, The Lion & Swan offers a wedding setting that effortlessly blends old-world charm with contemporary elegance. This unique combination creates a timeless backdrop for your special day— whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand affair. A Rising Star Among the North West’s Most Coveted Wedding Venues There’s a special kind of magic that happens when a venue becomes more than just a location—it becomes part of the love story itself. Being recognised as one of the North West’s most up-and-coming wedding venues is a tremendous honour for The Lion & Swan, and one we hold close to our hearts. This distinction is not just a reflection of our beautiful setting, but of the love, care, and attention to detail that we pour into every wedding celebration that takes place within our historic walls. Designed for the Day of Your Dreams What sets The Lion & Swan apart is our attention to the complete wedding experience. From the moment you arrive, our team is there to guide you, support you, and bring your vision to life. You’ll be welcomed by our dedicated wedding coordinator, who will give you a full tour of the venue—with a complimentary glass of sparkling, of course. We offer a full wedding package designed to take the stress out of planning while still allowing your personal touch to shine through. From tailored menus and stylish décor to seamless onthe-day coordination, we ensure every element comes together to reflect your love story. So, why not see it for yourself? Arrange a private viewing today and explore everything our venue has to offer. Meet with our wedding coordinator, tour the rooms and reception areas, and begin imagining your own unforgettable celebration with us. We can’t wait to welcome you. 01260 211211 www.lionandswan.co.uk Swan Bank, Congleton, Cheshire CW12 1JR
We finally made it people! Here we are in the runup to Christmas. Didn’t that year go by in a flash? Before we turn the diary pages over into 2026, let’s take a moment to look back at what weddings in 2025 brought our way. This year bold and vibrant colour palettes lead the way with jewel-toned hues and pops of hot pink or orange. Couples bonded with their florists, to embrace lush, romantic florals filling their venues with life and a quiet luxury. Meanwhile, the serpentine reception table layout really took off, becoming one of the most frequently requested. All the while, personality always shines through with couples continually finding new ways to tell their story and express themselves. We can’t wait to see what 2026 has in store! Hands up who can say they’re now mere months from W-day! As ever, enjoy and keeeep planning! Kelly Andrews, editor A fond look back Kelly x Your Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by Ellis Media and Events 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 Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding is published six times a year. ISSN 2052-0522 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 ADVERTISING Account Manager Dannii Carr | 01376 535 610 dannii.carr@county.wedding On the cover This issue’s cover has been sponsored by Liverpool-based wedding venue The Isla Gladstone (https://theislagladstone.co.uk). From the beautifully bespoke glass house to photo-worthy bandstand, this spectacularly unique and versatile venue is situated in a picturesque park steeped in history. The image is of Meg and Dylan on their wedding day, and was captured by Time Capsule Media (https://timecapsulemedia.co.uk). Steal their style I love real bride Anna’s soft, romantic style. Find out more about her big day from page 16. Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com @CountyWeddingMagazines @countyweddingmagazines @countyweddingmagazines AIRE 360, £249.99, t3micro.co.uk Brow Boost, £17, browaid.co.uk Earrings, £15, marksandspencer.com Lihi Hod, White Orchid Lip Dup in Bare, £17, sculptedbyaimee.co.uk EDITOR’S LETTER 3
Regulars 3 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Kelly 6 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the region 89 COMPETITION Win a luxury mini-moon in castle hotel In this issue... NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 Venues 9 SPOTLIGHT ON... LIVERPOOL Tie the knot in a local hotspot WIN A LUXURY MINI-MOON IN CASTLE HOTEL Features 29 DISCO DIVAS Embrace your inner diva and veer away from the traditional with this on-trend, bold and bright, retro-disco theme 34 PHOTOGRAPHY IN FOCUS We demystify the world of wedding photography for you with our glossary of terms 40 A FEAST TO REMEMBER Tailor your wedding breakfast to suit your personalities 49 ROBOTIC WEDDING SPEECHES? With the rise of AI, we’ve lost the heart that goes into wedding speeches. Here’s how you can get it back 66 SIGNATURE SCENTS We’ve gathered together our favourite fragrances and newest launches for brides and grooms to help you both find your wedding day signature scent 46 THE LEGAL BIT It’s not all dress finding and cake tasting, understand the legal side of marriage so you’re not caught off guard Win 89 34 108 66 Hisu Lee for Unsplash 4
Real weddings 16 HOME SWEET HOME Anna and Dylan said “I do” at St Dyfnogs Church before heading to the groom’s family farm to celebrate 22 SHEER JOY Katie and Joe celebrated their nuptials at Combermere Abbey on 8th August, 2025 Honeymoons 84 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 86 FALLING IN LOVE WITH ONTARIO Natural beauty and man-made magnificence in Canada’s largest province 90 WHISPERS OF LOVE We uncover the charm and calm of Marylebone Village for a cosy memorable mini-moon Fashion & Beauty 50 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 51 SET TO SPARKLE These dainty details and finishing touches are perfect for a winter wedding 52 THE STAR OF THE SHOW These aisle-approved trends will take centre stage at 2026 weddings 70 BEAUTY BUZZ The latest launches and must-haves 73 GROW, BABY, GROW! How to reverse the signs of thinning hair 76 BEST FOOT FORWARD Step into your wedding celebrations with a Margaret Dabbs London Medical Pedicure, a treat for your feet 79 HAIR AND HOROSCOPES Celebrity hair stylist and founder of Melissa Salons, Melissa Timperley shares her thoughts on the hair styles that suit you best according to your horoscope 82 NO EQUIPMENT, NO PROBLEM Looking to build strength, improve posture, and feel more energised before W-day without leaving home? Pilates could be the answer 40 unsplash.com@anitaaustvika 16 22 Grooms 60 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 62 ROMANCE-TUX Creating a showstopping look this winter in a black and white tux 65 SECOND LIFE Give your special day attire more than one life sarahhortonphotography.co.uk jessyarwood.co.uk 51 52 CONTENTS 5
Brewing up a storm More and more Brits are now picking up the cafetière, with Macdonald Hotels & Resorts revealing a 10 per cent rise in coffee sales across its 32 UK hotels and resorts in the past year, showing a growing national obsession with coffee culture. The group, which includes three sites across Cheshire, serves millions of guests every year and has set a high standard in food and beverage service. Coffee is central to that expertise, with investments in barista training, premium blends, and sustainable sourcing ensuring that every cup meets customer expectations. That commitment includes a pioneering partnership with direct trade producers Paddy & Scott’s. Through its Lunch Box coffee, every bag purchased helps fund meals for children in coffee-growing regions, such as Kenya. So far, guests at Macdonald Hotels & Resorts have enjoyed over 361,500 cups, helping to provide more than 8,107 school meals in the Meru region, with the initiative on track to hit 12,160 meals by the end of the year. Find out about hosting your big day at one of MacDonald Hotels beautiful Cheshire locations at macdonaldhotels.co.uk Handpicked HAMPERS Whether you’re looking for a lastminute gift for your wedding party this winter or planning ahead to next year, a carefully curated hamper you know your loved ones will cherish is a winning choice. Alternatively, why not pop one on your own wedding gift list? Warrington-based Top Hampers was born from the belief that gifts should mark an occasion in a way that’s meaningful and memorable, enabling you to give thoughtful and personalised gifts that show just how much you care. The latest range of ready-to-go wedding hampers are perfect if you’re short on time and can be delivered the next working day. From affordable to extravagant, they’re priced between £58 to £145. You can also opt for a bespoke hamper and rely on Top Hampers to do what it does best, creating a unique bespoke gift that truly reflects the recipient. Find out more at tophampers.com NEW TO CHESTER Luxury bath, body and home wellbeing brand Rituals has recently opened the doors to a new story in Chester at The Grosvenor Shopping Centre. The new space provides shoppers with an immersive journey through Rituals’ distinctive range of luxurious bath, body and home products, all thoughtfully designed to inspire moments of mindfulness and self-care in everyday life. Pop along to step up your bridal beauty or find the soothing solution to pre-wedding stress. Learn more at rituals.com NEWS Nearlywed Catch up on the latest from around the region 6
Winter flavours Family-run Italian restaurant group San Carlo has announced the launch of its autumn-winter menu, marrying comforting winter warmers with fresh, authentic Italian ingredients. New starters include the Salmone Affumicato (smoked salmon with shallots, capers, lemon and Altamura bread) and Heritage Tomato Salad (marinated tomatoes with goat cheese, black olives and basil). These fresh additions bring a balance of vibrant flavours and comforting textures to the menu. The new carne offering at San Carlo this winter is the Beef Cheek and Spinach, a rich and indulgent dish featuring tender, slowcooked beef cheek complemented by a bright and zesty gremolata (parsley, capers, garlic), alongside a serving of perfectly sauteed spinach for a well-balanced plate. So, that’s your next date night in Liverpool sorted! Find out more at sancarlo.co.uk HOLIDAYS ARE COMING If you’re planning to make the last Christmas before W-day the most special yet, look in at Cottons Hotel and Spa, where the holidays are arriving in style. Available across various dates, the Christmas Ball includes a stunning three course meal, Champagne and nibbles on arrival, with singer and DJ to entertain you. Why not have a blast at the ball before heading to one of the Hotel’s cosy rooms with its bed and breakfast package? Alternatively, if a fabulously festive afternoon tea is more up your street, you won’t want to miss the delicious sandwiches, home-made savouries and seriously tempting sweets at Cottons. The Festive Afternoon Tea is £37.95 per person or add a glass of champers for £44.95 per person. Find out more about Cottons Hotel and Spa’s Christmas offerings at cottonshotel.co.uk CHESHIRE-BORN BEAUTY Cosmetic Consult, founded by beauty entrepreneur, podcast host and Cheshire girl, Ashley Stobart, has launched its debut product: Miracle Skin Transformation. Designed to deliver clinic-grade results at home, this innovative treatment is set to become a staple in modern skincare routines. This high-performance at-home treatment is designed to tackle acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and overall skin texture. The easy to use, pre-soaked pads are infused with powerful active ingredients to provide professional-grade exfoliation and rejuvenation, helping users achieve a radiant, glass-skin glow with consistent use. Already a go-to favourite among makeup artists, beauty influencers, and skincare enthusiasts, the Miracle Skin Transformation is available now exclusively at thecosmeticconsult.co.uk at £39.99. ©EmmaPharaoh LATEST NEWS 7
You can meet our team throughout the United Kingdom during the wedding show season October through to May or simply book a call to go through what they can assist you with. Your dream day awaits you! EXCLUSIVE YACHT WEDDINGS www.exclusiveyachtweddings.com info@exclusiveyachtweddings.com WEDDINGS IN PAPHOS www.weddingsinpaphos.com info@weddingsinpaphos.com We offer yachts and private venues in Paphos, Cyprus with 30 years’ of experience and are a multi award-winning company! Weddings in Paphos Customers are our priority, privacy is our pride and luxury comes as standard. /weddingsinpaphos @weddingsinpaphos /ExclusiveYachtWeddings Yachtweddings Contact our Professional friendly team info@exclusiveyachtweddings.com for yachts and info@weddingsinpaphos.com for other venues
Tie the knot in a local hotspot 30 JAMES STREET AND RESTAURANT Albion House, L2 7PS 0151 236 0166 30jamesstreethotel.com ADELPHI HOTEL Ranelagh Place, L3 5UL 0151 709 7200 adelphihotelweddings.co.uk ALLERTON MANOR GOLF CLUB Allerton Road, L18 3JT 0151 428 7490 allertonmanorgolfclub.com ALOFT No.1 North John Street, L2 5QW 0151 294 3970 | marriott.com ATHENAEUM Church Alley, L1 3DD 0151 709 7770 theathenaeum.org.uk BLACKBURNE HOUSE Blackburne Place, L8 7PE 0151 708 3933 blackburnehouse.co.uk THE BLUECOAT School Lane, L1 3BX 0151 702 5324 | thebluecoat.org.uk CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL - JOHN LENNON AIRPORT Speke Road, L24 8QD 0151 494 5000 cpliverpool-johnlennonairport.co.uk CROWNE PLAZA LIVERPOOL CITY CENTRE Pier Head, L3 1QW 0151 243 8040 | cpliverpool.com DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT LIVERPOOL CITY CENTRE One Queen Square, L1 1RH 0151 476 8000 memoriesmademarriott.co.uk DEVONSHIRE HOUSE HOTEL 293-297 Edge Lane, L7 9LD 0151 260 2414 | devonshirehouse.co.uk DOUBLETREE BY HILTON LIVERPOOL 6 Sir Thomas Street, L1 6BR 0151 556 1222 | dtliverpool.co.uk EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB Goodison Park, L4 4EL 0151 330 2499 | evertonfc.com FABRIC STUDIOS 3 Constance Street, L3 8ET 07594 190 118 fabricstudiosliverpool.co.uk HARD DAYS NIGHT HOTEL 41 North John Street, L2 6RR 0151 236 1964 | millenniumhotels.com HOPE STREET HOTEL 40 Hope St, L1 9DA 0151 709 3000 hopestreethotel.co.uk HOTEL ANFIELD 23 Anfield Road, L4 0TF 0800 689 1267 hotelanfield.com INNSIDE BY MELIA LIVERPOOL 43 Old Hall Street, L3 9PP melia.com LISTER STEPS AT THE OLD LIBRARY Green Lane, L13 7EB tol.org.uk LIVERPOOL CRICKET CLUB Aigburth Road, L19 3QF 0151 427 2930 | liverpoolcricketclub.co.uk LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL CLUB Anfield Road, L4 0TH 0151 263 7744 | events.liverpoolfc.com LIVERPOOL TOWN HALL High Street, L2 3SW 0151 709 2301 | dine.co.uk THE ISLA GLADSTONE CONSERVATORY SPOTLIGHT ON... LIVERPOOL LOCAL VENUES 9
LOVE LANE BREWERY 62-64 Bridgewater Street, L1 0AY 0151 317 8215 | lovelanebrewing.com MALMAISON LIVERPOOL Princes Dock, L3 1QZ 0151 229 5000 | malmaison.com MERCURE LIVERPOOL ATLANTIC TOWER HOTEL Chapel Street, L3 9RE 0151 227 4444 | mercureweddings.com MERSEYSIDE MARITIME MUSEUM Albert Dock, L3 4AQ 0151 478 4780 | liverpoolmuseums.org.uk PINS SOCIAL CLUB 45-61 Duke Street, L1 5AP pinssocialclub.co.uk RACQUET CLUB 5 Chapel Street, L3 9AG 0151 236 6676 | racquetclubhotel.co.uk RADISSON BLU HOTEL LIVERPOOL 107 Old Hall Street, L3 9DB 0151 966 1500 | radissonhotels.com RICHMOND HOTEL 24 Hatton Garden, L3 2AN 0151 236 1220 therichmondapart. 360liverpoolhotels.com SCALE LIVERPOOL 68-73 Kempston Street, L3 8HL 07903 962 054 scaleliverpool.com SEFTON PARK HOTEL 37 Aigburth Drive, L17 4JE 0151 233 3015 seftonparkhotel.co.uk SEFTON PARK PALM HOUSE Mossley Hill Drive, Sefton Park, L17 1AP 0151 726 9304 | palmhouse.org.uk ST GEORGE’S HALL St George’s Place, L1 1JJ 0151 233 3004 | liverpoolcityhalls.co.uk ST LUKE’S BOMBED OUT CHURCH Leece Street, L1 2TR slboc.com THE BENTLEY 50 Brunswick Street, L2 0PL 0151 236 4001 | bentleyliverpool.co.uk THE EVERYMAN PLAYHOUSE 5-11 Hope Street, L1 9BH 0151 708 3700 | everymanplayhouse.com THE ISLA GLADSTONE CONSERVATORY Stanley Park, Anfield Road, L4 0TD 0151 263 0363 | theislagladstone.co.uk THE LINER HOTEL Lord Nelson Street, L3 5QB 0151 709 7050 theliner.co.uk THE MUNICIPAL HOTEL LIVERPOOL MGALLERY Municipal Building, Dale Street, L2 2DH 0151 332 3030 municipalhotelliverpool.com THE READER Calderstones Mansion House, Calderstones Park, L18 3JB 0151 729 2200 thereader.org.uk THE SHANKLY HOTEL Millenium House, 60 Victoria Street, L1 6DN 0151 236 0166 shanklyhotel.com THE VENUE Royal Liver Building, Pier Head, L3 1HU 0151 559 1950 royalliversuite.com TITANIC HOTEL Stanley Dock, Regent Road, L3 0AN 0151 559 1444 titanichotelliverpool.com WAVERTREE TOWN HALL 89 High Street, L15 8HF 0151 291 0184 | wavertreetownhall.com TITANIC HOTEL LIVERPOOL 10
The Racquet Club Hotel, 5 Chapel Street, Liverpool L3 9AG | 0151 236 6676 | info@racquetclub.org.uk WWW.RACQUETCLUBHOTEL.CO.UK The Racquet Club Hotel is a period building with stunning features, just inside our main entrance, you are greeted with our beautiful stair case. The Restaurant and Function Floor have an eclectic mixture of traditional and contemporary styles. We are licensed for Ceremonies up to 120. Our reception rooms feature wooden furniture, portrait pictures and a modern drinks reception space complete with snooker tables, piano and mezzanine level. The restaurant benefits from large arched windows in a fantastic airy space with an adjacent intimate bar. It is furnished with an mix of modern and traditional pieces of original art work. FUNCTION FLOOR SIT DOWN OR PARTY | ZIBA RESTAURANT AND BAR OR PARTY YOUR wedding DREAM AT RACQUET CLUB HOTEL
There is something about Rookery Hall that says romance. With its fountain lawn, wonderful gardens, beautiful architecture, stunning views and stylish banqueting suites, it is hard to imagine a more perfect wedding venue in Cheshire for your dream country house wedding. Wedding Showcase Sunday 11th January 2026 – 10am until 3pm See our elegant suite beautifully dressed for a ceremony and reception. Meet our experienced team, ready to check availability and answer your questions, plus there will be a selection of ‘Hand Picked’ suppliers ready to inspire you with ideas for your big day. LUXURY WEDDING VENUE Main Road, Worleston, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6DQ 01270 610016 | handpickedhotels.co.uk/rookeryhall ROOKERY HALL HOTEL & SPA NANTWICH, CHESHIRE
Elegant weddings in a picture-perfect setting There’s something magical about Cheshire’s Rookery Hall Hotel. Situated at the end of a sweeping drive, this impressive Georgian manor house sets the tone for elegant weddings. Picture-postcard gardens turn into expansive lawns, overlooking mile upon mile of stunning countryside, which all work together to make Rookery Hall a beautiful wedding venue. The grounds and gardens here are the heart and soul of the estate, providing seemingly endless, tranquil views. Meanwhile, large terraces are surrounded by pretty lawns and the rolling hills in the distance give you a true escape to the country for your special day. Choose between multiple perfect spots throughout the venue and grounds for your “I dos.” The most intimate of the bunch is the charming and luxurious Morning Room, which can accommodate 30 nearest and dearest. Boasting original features including impressive oak pannelling and a feature fireplace it beautifully sets the scene for your big day. The Wardle Suite can host 120 guests. With its elegant proportions, this space provides a stunning setting for your vows. The neutral palette serves as a blank canvas, allowing you to tailor the space perfectly according to your chosen scheme and style, ensuring your day is as unique as your love story. The largest ceremony space comes in the shape of the Lakeside Pavilion suitable for up to 160 guests. Nestled amid the glorious grounds, it offers a breathtaking setting for al fresco “I dos.” Surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant blooms, it creates a naturally romantic atmosphere that requires minimal decor to leave a lasting impression. As well as offering a further ceremony location for 160 guests, the modern Worleston Suite is also home to wedding receptions. It can host 160 loved ones for a wedding breakfast, and 220 for the evening celebrations. Located within the grounds, this space is fully self-contained with a private cloakroom, bar and access to the terraces and lawns. The venue offers a complimentary menu tasting for the happy couple as well as a complimentary bridal suite for the night of your wedding. Rookery Hall FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ROOKERY HALL Main Road, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 6DQ www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/rookeryhall 01270 610 016 13
Manchester Road, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 0SU | 01565 650333 | cottonshotel.co.uk We offer preferred accommodation rates and packages so that your guests can also make the most of your special day. Scan the QR code for more information. for a magical wedding The perfect setting... We love to create truly memorable wedding days. From the moment you arrive to the time you leave as a newly married couple, we’re devoted to making your special day everything you want it to be. Our packages We have three packages to choose from ranging from our Classic, where all the small details have been covered, through to Fairytale, which is all you could have dreamed of and more. Scan the QR code to view our wedding brochure. Accommodation For more information, please contact our wedding specialist and quote CM2025. Step inside this Cheshire treasure where a wealth of wedding spaces await Cottons Hotel and Spa is a wedding and events venue located in the charming town of Knutsford, Cheshire. Situated near Tatton Park, this four-star hotel offers a relaxing, retreat for couples to enjoy their wedding weekend. The event spaces here, along with dedicated staff, and curated packages ensure you and your guests receive high-quality service. The venue features a wonderful selection of spaces perfect for intimate ceremonies all the way through to extravagant celebrations. The suite can cater for up to 180 guests and can be used individually or in combination to suit your vision. The Verandah Suite in particular is ideal for wedding breakfasts accommodating up to 160 loved ones, and for evening receptions with anywhere from 40 to 180 guests. The suite has its own private bar and reception area, and is completely self-contained for your celebrations. As a four-star establishment, the Hotel has a total of 138 quality bedrooms for your overnight guests. The two of you can also enjoy a stay in the Junior Suite, along with a bottle of chilled Champagne and breakfast the following morning. Cottons offers a number of different wedding packages, Classic, Elegant and Fairytale, which all include something special. COTTONS HOTEL & SPA FIND OUT MORE ABOUT COTTONS HOTEL & SPA Manchester Road, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 0SU www.cottonshotel.co.uk/celebrations/weddings 01565 650 333
Say ‘I DO’ with Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa Southport Old Road, Formby, Merseyside L37 0AB To make your dreams come true please contact our Wedding Team on 01704 875 699 email: weddings@formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk or visit www.formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk The perfect setting to your perfect day. Scan for weddings NOW WITH OUTDOOR WEDDINGS
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sweet home Home Anna and Dylan said “I do” at St Dyfnogs Church before heading to the groom’s family farm to celebrate Images courtesy of Sarah Horton Photography Anna’s brother-in-law played football with groom-to-be, Dylan, so the two met at one of their matches and have been inseparable ever since. Dylan proposed to Anna at home around Christmastime; just the two of them and their little cavapoo, Nel. The couple decided on a marquee wedding in the field below Dylan’s family home allowing them to put their own personal stamp on the day. Before it was time to celebrate here, they tied the knot at St Dyfnogs Church in Llanrhaeadr as they live in the village and regularly take Nel on walks to the well behind it. IT’S ONLY NEUTRAL “We wanted to go for a natural look,” Anna explains. So, their palette featured creams and tan. To curate her ideas, the bride created a Pinterest board and used Procreate on her iPad to draw out her vision for the marquee. The final look featured neutral hues and wicker furniture. A highlight was the table numbers including photos of fur baby Nel. MUSIC TO MY EARS It was a day filled with music. During the ceremony a friend sang a couple of songs while the newlyweds signed the register. For the marquee the couple had compiled their own playlist to set the tone before the live band took over, filling the dancefloor for the evening. LOOKING CHIC The bride wore a stunning gown by Martina Liana. “I’d seen this dress on Pinterest before we even got engaged and saved it,” Anna shares. Even after visiting a couple of bridal boutiques, her mind kept going back to this one. “When I found out they stocked it at Along Came Eve in Chester, I just had to make an appointment to try it on,” she continues. From the moment she put it on, she knew it was the one. Dylan and his groomsmen looked super-chic in tuxes with black bow ties, along with matching socks complete with their initials – a quirky touch from Anna to make them smile. The bridesmaids meanwhile were dressed in one-shoulder satin maxi dresses in bronze. MEMORABLE MOMENTS For Anna, one of the day’s highlights was getting ready with her “favourite ladies.” The night before she opened handwritten letters from them and her mum and crucially planted a sausage to ensure good weather, which worked a treat! Guest of honour, gorgeous wedding woofer Nel spent the big day with the newlyweds and even joined them at the table for the wedding breakfast. “The whole day was exactly what we wanted: relaxed and personal,” Anna says. The bride leaves us with her words of wisdom for all those heading towards W-day: “No one else notices the small things you worry about and on the day they won’t matter. Cherish the day and the build-up as it goes by so quickly – you’ll never have all your favourite people in one place again, so it really is special.” REAL WEDDINGS 17
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ROLL CREDITS Photographer, Sarah Horton Photography, sarahhortonphotography.co.uk | Dress, Along Came Eve, alongcameeve.com | Suits, Moss at Cheshire Oaks | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Azazie | Wedding rings, The Diamond Company | Hair stylist, Kimber Hair and Makeup, @kimberhairandmakeup | Makeup artist, Faye Ashton Bridal Makeup, @fayemakeupartistry | Cake, @ygranarbach Flowers, Costellos Floral Design, @lottie_lou57 | Entertainment, Tewtewtennau, @tewtewtennau | Celyn Cartwright, @celynllwyd | Catering, Dine a Design Catering, dineadesigncatering.com | Cornerstone Oven, @cornerstoneoven Videographer, Joel Parry Wedding Films, joelparry.co.uk | Marquee, Up Marquees, upmarquees.com 20
JULIE KELLING WEDDING CELEBRANT Beautiful, bespoke and meaningful ceremonies Choosing a Humanist celebrant means taking full control of your wedding ceremony, making it a truly memorable occasion and everything you could wish for. I’ll create a unique ceremony that tells your love story, your way. And the best part is that it can be wherever, however and whatever you want it to be. I’ll be there to guide you every step of the way. Find out more by visiting my website https://humanists.uk/celebrants/ julie-kelling or email: julie.kelling@humanistceremonies.org.uk Photo by @k_i_t_photo Exclusive Use weddings tailored to fit every budget www.thefieldsweddingvenue.co.uk @thefieldsbarnvenue Just 4 miles from Chester with views of the Cheshire Plains Fully licensed for indoor and outdoor civil ceremonies THE FIELDS BARN WEDDING VENUE Looking for a relaxed wedding where you get to put your stamp on the day and have it your way? The Fields is a one-of-a-kind wedding venue in the Cheshire countryside. Rustic, relaxed, and a little bit rebellious, we believe weddings should be personal, playful, and planned to perfection. If you’re after a day full of personality, great food, big laughs, and saying "I do" with a view – you’ve found your spot. with breathtaking views over the Cheshire countryside Award winning locally sourced food & drink Up to 150 people seated and 250 for an evening party Sounds like you? Let’s chat. Call 01244 303100 or email weddings@thechesterfields.co.uk to book a viewing.
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Sheer joy Katie and Joe celebrated their nuptials at Combermere Abbey on 8th August, 2025 Images courtesy of Jess Yarwood Photography REAL WEDDINGS 23
Katie and Joe met on dating app Hinge. “Not very romantic but it worked for us!” Katie says. Joe proposed at home before suggesting they head out to their local bar for a celebratory drink, where Katie found their family there to join them in raising a glass. Katie grew up in Nantwich and Joe is a church goer, so the couple brought together the best of both and decided to say “I do” at St Mary’s Church in Nantwich. They looked into venues nearby for the ensuing celebrations and discovered Combermere Abbey. “We wanted that mix of a beautiful stately home with a relaxed atmosphere,” Katie explains. The couple were keen on a bright, summer palette with colours that felt warm, inviting and joyful. Katie chose a pale yellow for the bridesmaids’ dresses then worked with their venue stylist and florist to select the pink and peachy tones for the flowers. They also incorporated a hint of blue as a nod to water, since Joe played water polo for Team GB in the 2012 Olympics. The stationery brought together the traditional and the modern with the invitations sent from the bride’s parents including their full names, Katherine and Joseph, while the welcome sign was more informal with ‘Katie & Joe’. It also featured a quote from Shakepeare’s The Tempest as a nod to Katie’s love of plays and literature. “I love an elegant place setting so this was important to us,” Katie says. “We had quite a few babies on the guest list so our stylist gave us the idea of putting the mother and baby’s names on the place names as a keepsake for them.” 24
The beautiful bride wore an Enzoani gown. “I’m quite curvy so I wanted something to show off my figure instead of hiding it,” she explains. She added a cathedral-length veil with blusher for the drama. Joe’s suit was made by Edit Suits. “Being 6ft 9, he really struggles to find clothes to fit, so this was a lovely experience for him to have something he felt good in,” his bride shares. Brimming with emotion, the ceremony was the highlight of the day for Katie. “I loved every moment of it from my dad walking me down the aisle to the readings and exchanging our own vows,” she remembers. The couple are real foodies and Joe loves to cook, so food was another crucial element of the day and one of the reasons they chose Combermere. “We wanted something indulgent and chose ham hock with a poached egg, steak and a tiro of desserts; just really yummy food!” Katie tells us. Pizzas were served in the evening to stave off any rumbling tummies as dancing got underway. String musicians played during the ceremony and cocktail hour creating a sophisticated, romantic air, before a live band and DJ took over in the evening. “We love music, and they were absolutely amazing,” Katie remembers. When it comes to planning advice, the couple’s venue stylist has some sage words of advice. “She told me to have the most important things in our minds, focus on them and don’t sweat the small stuff. I feel like it paid off,” Katie says. “We ended up with a day that felt authentically us.” REAL WEDDINGS 25
THE W-DAY TEAM Venue and catering, Combermere Abbey, combermereabbey.co.uk Photographer, Jess Yarwood Photography, jessyarwood.co.uk Dress, Lulu Browns, lulu-browns.com Groom’s suit, Edit Suits, editsuits.com Bridesmaids’ dresses, Odd Muse Groomsmen’s suits, Dobell, dobell.co.uk Wedding rings, Moody’s 1883, moodys1883.com Hair stylist, Danielle Broughton-Evans Hair, dbehair.com Bride’s makeup artist, Zoe Hughes MUA, @zoehughes_mua Bridesmaids’ and mothers-of-the-bride and –groom makeup, Sarah Dunn MUA, sarahdunnmakeup.co.uk Cake, Georgia Faye Bakes, @georgiafayebakes_ Flowers, Anna Flora, annafloraflorist.co.uk Transport, Barry & Barry, @BarryAndBarry Venue styling and stationery, Soiree Studio, soireestudio.co.uk Entertainment, Jonny Ross Music (Northern House Band), jonnyrossmusic.com Entertainment, Dolce Strings, dolcestrings.co.uk Videographer, Richardson Video, richardsonvideo.co.uk “Make all the little things in the build-up a celebration, I feel we did.” 26
We’ll take care of the little things on your big day. Let Wonderland bring your occasion to life for children of all ages. 07901 718 062 • info@wonderlandcreche.uk @wondercreche @wondercreche wonderlandcreche.uk At John Pass Jewellers, we know how important it is to find a wedding band that sits perfectly alongside your engagement ring. That’s why we offer astunning range of shape-to-fit designs, from gentle curves to unique custom styles, all created to showcase your ring beautifully. Whether you love something simple and elegant or a band with a little extra detail, we’ll help you find theperfect fit that feels made just for you. Visit us online at www.johnpass.co.uk or call us on 01270 214157 John Pass Crewe, 179 Nantwich Road, Crewe CW2 6DT John Pass NUL, 12 Ironmarket Newcastle-Under-Lyme Staffordshire, ST5 1RF Why have the same ceremony as every other couple? When you could have one that’sbeautifully crafted and personal to you. T: 0789 456 0206 E: sophie@swceremonies.co.uk www.swceremonies.co.uk
At Wild Thyme Creations, we believe in turning dreams into reality, one stitch at a time. Our exquisite collection of wedding dresses is designed to capture the essence of your love story and make your special day truly unforgettable. Explore our stunning creations that blend timeless elegance with modern sophistication. Let Wild Thyme Creations be the beginning of your beautiful journey towards forever. Exceptional Quality, Unparalleled Craftsmanship. Wirrals only double award winner for service and quality. 07828 001 843 • info@wildthymecreations.co.uk • 73 Mill Lane, Wallasey www.wildthymecreations.co.uk Wild Thyme Creations
Disco Embrace your inner diva and veer away from the traditional with this on-trend, bold and bright, retro-disco theme Images courtesy of Jess Yarwood Photography LOST Wirral is a true blank canvas for any style of wedding, which is exactly what this team of local experts set out to showcase. “Rather than rustic or traditional, we wanted to go ‘out there’ with a retrodisco inspired theme that’s on trend, fun and full of colour,” says the venue’s Paula Brown. The streamers, disco balls, welcome sign and table decor all bring the theme together and the team at Little Cheshire Weddings completely understood the brief and ran with it. Meanwhile, real life couple Rochelle and Matt embraced the occasion with heaps of fun – “Let’s just say the fizz was really flowing!” Paula laughs. “We think lots of couples love this city-centre style and we wanted to show that you don’t have to get married in an empty warehouse to achieve it,” Paul continues. “You can still use a more traditional venue, keep everyone happy and go all out with your own individual vibe.” divas LOCAL SHOOT 29
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THE DREAM TEAM Venue and shoot coordinator, LOST Wirral, lostwirral.co.uk | Venue styling and shoot coordinator, Little Cheshire Weddings, littlecheshireweddings.com | Photographer, Jess Yarwood Photography, jessyarwoodphotography.co.uk | Dresses, Along Came Eve, alongcameeve.com | Wild Thyme Creations, wildthymecreations.co.uk | Hair and makeup, Doll Beauty, dollhq.co.uk | Suits, Groom Chester, groomhire.co.uk | Cake, Abba Cakes, abbacakes.co.uk | Flowers, Happy Bloom, happybloom.co.uk | Transport, Funky Campers UK, funkycampersuk.com | Videography, Sarah Horton Photography, sarahhortonphotography.co.uk 32
The Feel Good Florist is an award winning creative oristry workshop based in Greater Manchester. Celebrating nature with her signature creative and wild style, Nikita and her team work closely with couples to create romantic and whimsical designs. “We love getting to know our couples, from their choice of wedding venue to their pets names, it all contributes to the design process. Flowers are lled with personality and we love to make our weddings re ect this!” hello@thefeelgoodflorist.com www.thefeelgoodflorist.com CREATIVE FLORAL ARTISTRY The National Wedding Florist of the Year 2025 voted by TWIA The Wedding Industry Awards @staceyoliverphotos @emmabillsborough @mfarrisphoto Funky Campers UK e Home of Multi Award Winning Classic VW Campervans Darren 07962 061201 • O ce 0151 648 3871 • info@funkycampersuk.com www.funkycampersuk.com
PHOTOGRAPHY We demystify the world of wedding photography for you with our glossary of terms Choosing your wedding photographer is a hugely exciting time, and a task we suggest you prioritise. However, with great power comes great responsibility, so it’s not a decision to take lightly! Remember, your wedding photos will be the one thing (aside from your rings, and your actual marriage) that will last a lifetime. So, this isn’t an area to spare the budget or the time on. If you’ve already started looking, you may well appreciate that the above isn’t as easy as it sounds. Have you encountered an entirely new world that you never knew existed? Have you discovered that wedding photographers speak a different language? Suddenly feeling overwhelmed by choice? Allow us to demystify the whole process for you with our glossary of wedding photography terms. Understanding some of these keywords that photographers use, will help you to form a greater understanding of what’s on offer and what you actually want. in focus 34
Andres Molina for Unsplash CANDIDS This is how photographers refer to informal, unstaged shots; just capturing you and your loved ones in the moment as it happens. They capture genuine, raw emotion and always feature among our favourites. Lori Dejong for Unsplash AMBIENT LIGHT This refers to the light source for your photography being entirely natural rather than from artificial means such as a flash or studio lights. It can also be a style of photography in itself, as use of ambient light brings a beautiful, natural, romantic atmosphere to the resulting images. Do bear in mind though, that during the winter months this may pose a challenge, but your photographer will know the best times and places to utilise what natural light there is and will recommend the use of other forms of lighting when necessary. BLACK and WHITE This sounds simple, and it is! Many photographers will suggest a mix of colour and black and white shots for a timeless, classic effect. Some images just look better in black and white. Most will capture the image in colour in camera and edit in post-production giving you a choice for your final album. COPYRIGHT So, you want to share, share, share your beautiful gallery, but who owns the copyright? Traditionally, it remains with the photographer. However, they’ll likely be more than happy for you to share for personal purposes among your friends and family, but when commercial copyright is required such as use here in our gorgeous magazine or for use in advertising, a completely separate agreement is required. When you discuss your contract with your photographer, always ask them how you have permission to use your images. Boudoir This is an intimate, pre-wedding bridal shoot, designed to empower you to feel confident in your own skin and embrace your femininity. Captured with a specialist photographer in a private setting (hence the name) these are typically gifted to grooms and you’ll be glad to hear are intended for his eyes only. PHOTOGRAPHY 35
DETAILS Don’t forget the detail shots when discussing what’s important to you. Here, we’re talking about flowers, cake, tablescapes and more. You’ve spent so much time and effort carefully curating the look of your big day, so you’ll love having it all immortalised to look back on and remember how incredible everything looked. DOCUMENTARY During your research you may come across wedding photographers who describe their style as documentary, but what does this mean? You can expect this type of photographer to capture natural, unposed moments of your day, telling the story of events as they unfold. You may also see this style described as photojournalistic, reportage or candid. They’ll avoid staged shots like the plague in favour of capturing those genuine emotions, reactions and interactions. Ahmed Kzood for Unsplash Editorial This style of wedding photography combines a high-fashion aesthetic with all-important storytelling, aiming to create a polished magazine-like feel. There’ll be an element of artistic direction, styling and posing, along with set up of creative compositions. So, this is one for the photography enthusiasts but probably not for you if you’re nervous in front of the camera. Coverage When you see this term in photographer’s packages it’s referring to the hours they’ll be with you to capture your day whether it be ceremony and wedding breakfast only, for example, or for the whole day. Maximum coverage will usually involve them staying until the start of your evening party, so they can capture your first dance. As a side note, if your tog is with you all day please don’t forget to feed them, no one works well on an empty stomach! Mariah Krafft for Unsplash DIGITAL Most photographers will use digital cameras these days, thanks to the benefits the technology brings. Your photographer will be able to review their shot immediately, so they can check they’ve got the perfect one. Plus, it gives you a faster turnaround time, the images are easily shared, and photographers have more creative control. ENGAGEMENT SHOOT If offered, this is something we recommend taking your photographer up on. Many will offer this as part of a package, so do double check. Not only will you have another wonderful set of images to treasure, but this session also allows you to get to know your photographer and feel comfortable in front of the camera, both of which will be invaluable to you on the big day. 36
Hisu Lee for Unsplash FINE ART When it comes to wedding photography fine art refers to a style that elevates your images focusing on artistic and aesthetically captivating photographs akin to fine art. This style focuses on beauty and tells the story of your day through a series of carefully curated images rather than purely documenting events. Fancy National Portrait Gallery-worthy shots? This one’s for you! Joeyy Lee for Unsplash FIRST LOOK If you’re not precious about the first time you see each other being from either end of the aisle, this is a lovely option to consider. You’ll meet with your photographer before your ceremony to capture your reactions as you see each other in your big-day attire for the very first time. There are often tears and emotions aplenty to immortalise. You may also opt for this if timings are too tight to allow couple shots post ceremony. First look shots with the bridesmaids or father-of-the bride also totally tug on the heart strings! Briana Autran for Unsplash Formals This generally refers to your group shots that are posed and, well, formal. Your loved ones will be arranged in neat rows, smiling directly at the camera with the two of you in the centre. They’ll include traditional group gatherings, such as bridesmaids, groomsmen, mothers and fathers, friends, bride’s extended family, groom’s extended family, and so on and so forth. This used to be the accepted form of capturing loved ones on camera but is now much less popular, in no small part due to the time they take. Peri Stojnic for Unsplash Film This method uses the traditional way of capturing images to negative film, which needs to be developed in a dark room later. It’s now used for nostalgic, artistic, or aesthetic purposes bringing a more unpredictable but considered approach to your photography. Some photographers will offer this as an add on, as it’s quite risky to use as the primary method. As film is more costly than digital, you’ll likely have the option to spread one or two rolls of film out across your day for the key moments. Anna Vi for Unsplash GOLDEN HOUR This is the period of the day shortly before sunset when the daylight softens creating a golden glow that’s an absolute dream for your photographer. Discuss possible opportunities with them for some magical shots. PHOTOGRAPHY 37
Portraits Quite simply this is your couple’s shoot, which will usually take place directly following your ceremony while your guests are enjoying the drinks reception. How long you choose to spend away from your guests capturing these images is entirely up to you. Your photographer should have a good feel for your venue and will have all the best backdrops pre-selected. If you’re getting married in a city centre location such as Liverpool or Chester for example, we highly recommend getting out at about with your photographer who will love to capture the two of you in some iconic spots. A shot in front of The Baltic Triangle Wings street art in Liverpool is a must in our book! TRASH THE DRESS This is an oh-so fun shoot that should take place after the big day, where you literally trash your dress. You can pick the location such as the beach or a forest where creative images of you running through the water or trees, or having paint thrown at you, will inevitably leave your dress in a state it can’t be saved from but will result in the most incredible images. Tip top: many couples choose to use smoke bombs for some showstopping wedding day images, but we recommend exercising caution as they can inadvertently lead to dress damage. Take another, cheaper, dress to change into for these shots or chat to your photographer about how to minimise risk. Viespire for Unsplash SECOND SHOOTER Your photographer may or may not be able to offer a second shooter. So, do you really need one? It’s all down to the coverage you require. For example, a second shooter means your preparations, and your partner’s, can be captured simultaneously. You’ll also be able to see your ceremony as it unfolds from all angles, with one photographer typically at the back and one at the front, or one on you and one on your partner. It all depends on where the celebrant or registrar is happy for them to be. POST-PRODUCTION If you’re wondering why on Earth, it can take weeks or even months to get a look at your photographs after your big day, the reason will be post-production. Sure, digital is immediate, there’s no film development required, but your photographer will want to make the most of the flexibility that brings. This is an in-depth process that takes time and involves selecting the best images to present to you; adjusting colour balance, exposure, contrast and more to bring a cohesive look to the images that matches the photographer’s style; and retouching, such as removing something random from the background. PACKAGES When you’ve narrowed down the style of photographer you want to book, you’ll be getting down to the nitty gritty of looking at the packages they offer. Look out for elements including hours of coverage, consultations, timeline, number of images, albums and prints, whether they offer a pre-wedding shoot, how they deliver the images and more. There’ll often be various tiers available from the basic to upgrades such as inclusion of a second shooter or drone footage. Anita Austvika for Unsplash Testimonials Once you’ve narrowed down your preferred list of photographers, we’d advise you to pore over their website or social media testimonials and galleries. Trust is so important, so you need to see how other couples felt about their experience, as well as viewing a full wedding gallery rather than one or two highlights. SHOT LIST If there are any shots of your wedding day you simply can’t live without, be sure to draw up a shot list for your photographer. This might include important group shots such as you and your bridesmaids. But we do recommend you keep the groups to a minimum to avoid taking too much time out of your day. 38
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A feast to remember Tailor your wedding breakfast to suit your personalities Like almost every other aspect of your wedding day, the wedding breakfast is something that can be personalised to perfection. Look how far we’ve come! Once upon a time, nothing could be further from the truth. Millennials, hands up if you’ve been to multiple weddings serving the same, bland fare: melon with Parma ham, chicken supreme, and pavlova. It was fine, edible, but it was never going to set the world alight. Rarely did the dishes ever have anything to say about the newlyweds other than, “I’m just here to suit everyone.” When, in reality, all this type of food did was suck the joy out of the room. Happily, those days are behind us. Today’s wedding breakfast is an experience in itself. Modern couples are freeing themselves from the shackles of tradition in favour of food that makes them happy and tells a story. Remember, your wedding breakfast can be memorable – a talking point for years to come, for all the right reasons. And here’s how! Heritage highlights If the two of you come from different cultural backgrounds, why not celebrate both through your wedding breakfast? Fusion menus are a great way forward to bring in the best of both worlds and celebrate the two of you as a couple, bringing the two cuisines together to mirror the marriage of two cultures. Ask your caterer to come up with a blend of the two, for example an English roast with Moroccan spices. If you love this idea but are left lamenting the fact that you’re both British, don’t! You can celebrate different regions of the UK just as you can with other nations. Think of key ingredients that can be locally sourced – Scottish salmon and Welsh lamb are iconic examples. Or if you’re both from Cheshire or Merseyside, there’s the good old traditional stew Scouse, delicious Cheshire cheeses or a hearty Chester pudding for dessert. Not to mention all the scrummy local honey, jams and chutneys you can find at artisan food markets. Alternatively, bring in the global cuisine as part of your love story. Did your spouse ask you to marry them in Italy? Opt for a Mediterranean menu. Do you adore travelling the world together? Choose your favourite cuisine form those destinations and talk to your caterer about devising a creative and cohesive menu inspired by them. Social butterflies If the two of you view dining as a social event, you might want to look into ways of incorporating more interactive ways of dining. With just a small tweak to the traditional three-course seated wedding breakfast, you can introduce sharing dishes for a family feast vibe. Ask your caterer for suggestions that involve a group of terrines full of piping hot goodness served to the table, allowing guests to pass them around and dish up for each other. We love the idea of serving roast joints to be carved by a nominee or volunteer at the table (chef’s hats optional!) along with a myriad of mouthwatering sides to dish up, such as roast or dauphinoise potatoes, salads, grains and sauces. Take the social element to the next level and opt for a stunning grazing table. Perfect for the summer, these can be packed with such treats as cheeses, cured meats, crudites, olives, marinated veg, artisan breads, flavoured butters, dips and whatever else your hearts desire! Ditch the seating plan and allow guests to sit wherever they wish with their plates offering the opportunity to move around and mingle. Festival goers For those who adore the great outdoors and love nothing more than attending live music events and festivals, bring a touch of this vibe to your big day. Ditch the three-course, seated wedding breakfast in favour of an array of street food trucks. As well as ensuring there’s something to suit everyone, you’ll be keeping things informal while keeping the fun going. If you still yearn for 40
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