MAR/APR 2022 £3.55 yourdevoncornwall.wedding FASHION, BEAUTY, GROOMS, HONEYMOONS, VENUES AND MORE Some of the finest venues unveiled Spotlight on... EAST AND MID DEVON PARTY LIKE IT’S 2022! Fun music and entertainment ideas W-day news and offers Keeping it local WIN! A honeymoon in St Lucia Choose a chic hotel spa venue Make a splash The frill of it The latest ruffled and layered dresses TO HAVE AND TO HOLD New-season bridal shoes and bags
Your Day, Your Way! Exclusive hire for two full days with your choice of suppliers. Harefield Barn, Shute, Shobrooke, Devon, EX17 1BW 07541 121404 - www.harefieldbarn.co.uk
REGULARS 6 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Claire 8 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions 11 FREEBIES & OFFERS Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs 51 HOT TOPIC Local experts offer big-day advice 82 COMPETITION Win a honeymoon in St Lucia CONTENTS MARCH/APRIL 2022 VENUES 13 SPOTLIGHT ON...EAST & MID DEVON We reveal where to wed 19 MAKE A SPLASH Behind the doors of some of the region’s best hotels and spas On the cover Photograp er Louise Richey is the talent behind the lens of our cover image this issue, taken from the real wedding of Bryony and Zoe at Trevenna wedding venue in Liskeard featured on page 24. To see more of Louise’s work and book her for your wedding, visit www.louisericheyphotography.com 65 19 FEATURES 43 TO THE MANOR BORN New wedding supplier Ivyhouse Photography collaborated with Shilstone, a country manor house venue located in Modbury, Devon to create this elegant styled shoot with a subtle, traditional feel 47 MUSIC IS LOVE Ways to entertain at weddings large and small 55 THE SUPPORT ACT Fashion and accessory ideas for the bride, bridesmaids, mothers and groomsmen 58 HERE COME THE GIRLS County Wedding Magazines editor Melissa Barker shares her wedding planning journey 3
REAL WEDDINGS 24 TO HAVE AND TO HOLD Bryony and Zoe’s special day at Trevenna enjoyed a blush pink, white and green colour theme 31 RUSTIC ROMANCE Samantha and Clive’s wedding at Humber Barn was styled with a romantic rustic theme with some modern touches 36 DOWN ON THE FARM Vicky and Jon’s laid-back country wedding was decorated with a pretty pink and sage-green theme HONEYMOONS 78 HONEYMOON NEWS A round up of new openings and honeymoon essentials 80 GOURMET LOVERS PARADISE IN THE ALGARVE... With 3,000 hours of sunshine and just a three-hour flight from the UK, the Algarve offers a delightful year-round destination GROOMS 75 GROOMS’ NEWS All the latest best buys and product launches 76 IN THE PINK Fuchsia, watermelon, flamingo, rouge, salmon, coral, hot pink... the choices are endless when it comes to this oh-so fabulous hue! FASHION & BEAUTY 60 FASHION FOCUS Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals her latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches 61 LOVELY IN LACE This classic fabric never goes out of style, whether you choose a traditional gown or a more relaxed, boho-inspired dress 65 THE FRILL OF IT Layers and ruffles adorn dresses in the new-season bridal collections 70 AISLE STYLE From skyscraper stilettos to comfortable flats and even sliders, the new-season bridal shoe collections offer something for everyone 71 BEAUTY Q&A Our local professionals solve your problems 72 BEAUTY BUZZ Beauty editor Kelly Andrews reveals all the latest must-haves for the bride-to-be 61 78 70 80 9 76 4
6 With the new year in full swing and Mother’s Day and Easter just around the corner, this is a great time to think about mother-of-the-bride and bridesmaids’ outfits as well as gifts to thank the leading ladies in your life so this new-season issue includes a dressing the bridal party feature that isn’t to be missed, turn to page 55 to find out more! There’s also real-life wedding inspiration, expert advice from local suppliers, big-day beauty and beautiful bridal fashion. If like me, you can’t wait to spoil your mum this Mother’s Day then check out www.yourdevoncornwall.wedding and our social channels for jewellery, accessories, beauty, flower and cake inspiration to thank her for everything that she does. We’ve also created our very own County Wedding Magazines YouTube channel, providing our readers with plenty of wedspiration from venue tours to dream dresses. Catch up on beauty reviews and how-tos from our beauty editor and peek behind the scenes of styled shoots featured in our titles past and present. You can even be a fly on the wall at some real weddings and you’ll also find local supplier interviews packed with tips and tricks. We’re adding more content all the time, so why not hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a thing? It’s your one-stop-shop for wedding vid-spiration! Simply head to YouTube and search County Wedding Magazines. Wishing you all a chocolate-filled Easter and I’ll see you next issue! Claire x ISSN 2397-4133 EDITORIAL 01376 535 611 Claire Ridley | Editor clairer@county.wedding Danielle Harvey | Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | Deputy Managing Editor and Beauty Editor Claire Ridley | Fashion Editor Melissa Barker | Senior Editor, Grooms and Travel 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 sarahm@county.wedding ACCOUNT MANAGER Tony Smith | 01376 538 562 tonys@county.wedding Subscriptions 01376 514 000 subscriptions@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding Accounting Manager | Derrick James Your Devon & Cornwall 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 Devon & Cornwall 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 Devon & Cornwall Wedding, c/o KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP. @YourDevonCornwallWedding @CWM_YDCW @cwm_wedding Visit us online at county.wedding and countyweddingevents.com Claire Ridley, Editor Thanks, mum! cwe COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS Happy Mother’s Day to the best mum in the world, I love you so much! I live by the beach and love nothing more than swimming in the sea so when I spotted the stunning seaside views from Bedruthan hotel and spa in Mawgan Porth, Cornwall, revealed in our feature on page 19, I added a visit to the property to my bucket list!
EDITOR’S LETTER 7 I love the selection of cakes and sweet treats from Sweet Art Bakery that Samantha and Clive fed their guests during their wedding at Humber Barn. See more of their pretty details on page 31. How cool are these colours and dress designs? On page 55, you’ll see more from bespoke bridal and occasion wear specialists Dandelions and Pearls located in Torquay, Devon. This Easter, I’ll be enjoying a cocktail (or two!) made with varieties from Devon-based organic and sustainable drinks brand Luscombe. Turn to page eight to read all about them! How cute is this adorable backdrop that Bryony and Zoe had at their wedding at Trevenna in Liskeard, Cornwall? See more of their ideas on page 24. Anyone who knows me well will tell you that my favourite colour is pink so when I spotted the bridal suite at Arches Beach Weddings located on Newberry Beach in Combe Martin, Devon with its pink freestanding bath and interiors, I fell in love! Turn to page 51 to read all about this venue. Check out the new wedding venue Bridle & Groom Weddings Ltd in Liskeard featured on page 36 and congratulations to Vicky and Jonathon who recently married there!
MADE IN DEVON Sustainable underwear, lounge and sleepwear brand Stripe & Stare, with its headquarters in Yelverton, Devon, make eco-friendly knickers from a material called Modal that’s sustainably produced in Austria from beechwood trees. The garments are 95% biodegradable and last year, the brand released a 100% biodegradable lace underwear collection. The fast-growth business has increased its revenue by over 100% a year for the last three years, driven by increased demand for sustainable fashion and a buoyant e-commerce market. In addition to its thriving online platform, the brand is stocked by a host of independent and high-end retailers including Selfridges. Co-founders Katie Lopes and Nicola Piercy have announced an investment from BGF, the UK and Ireland’s most active growth capital investor, along with some private backers. This investment will be used to scale the business by increasing employment and production capacity at its headquarters to drive the UK and international sales. Nicola Piercy tells us, “The last 12 months has exceeded all expectations for the business. We’ve seen consistently strong organic growth and repeat purchase rates. We’ve created a product that women love and as a result, we’ve received global recognition for our product range.” She continues, “To move to the next stage of growth it was clear we needed a partner who understood the needs of our company and could provide support. There was a clear synergy between Stripe & Stare and the BGF investment team. With a focus on long-term, minority investment and experience of building successful e-commerce businesses, it was clear they were the right partners to take us to the next stage of growth.” To shop, visit https://stripeandstare.com EDITOR’S FAVOURITE Devon-based organic and sustainable drinks brand Luscombe offer an array of delicious beverages made using the finest quality organic whole fruits from trusted growers blended with Dartmoor spring water, perfect for weddings. I love the Devon Spritz seasonal cocktail created with Luscombe’s Damascene Rose Bubbly when it’s blended with Devon Cove Vodka and English Sparkling Wine. Non-alcoholic choices include Luscombe’s Passionate Ginger Beer, Sicilian Lemonade and Rhubarb Crush. To shop, visit https://luscombe.co.uk The latest news from around both counties NEWS Nearlywed THE POINT HOLIDAYS LAUNCHES The Point at Polzeath, a year-round holiday venue offering rental accommodation ranging from one-bedroom apartments to houses sleeping up to 16 people has launched The Point Holidays, a family-run North Cornwall holiday business now including high-quality rental properties located in Polzeath, Rock and Daymer Bay. Managing director Tom O’Donnell will lead the expansion of The Point Holidays with the ambition to become the best local, family-run holiday rental and management company in the area. With a continued drive to provide outstanding customer service, the team have a shared passion to provide unforgettable experiences for guests to enjoy what the local area has to offer. He tells us, “We are very fortunate to have an abundance of natural beauty on the doorstep, and our team are passionate about the area and committed to sharing their local knowledge and expertise to help our customers create cherished memories.” He continues, “We expect the recent popularity of staycations to continue and are delighted to expand our collection of quality holiday homes into the neighbouring villages of Rock, Polzeath and Trebetherick.” To book, call 01208 863 000 or visit www.thepointholidays.co.uk 8
NEW LAUNCH Sharpham Cheese has launched new cheese celebration cakes, perfect for weddings. Hand-crafted on the banks of the River Dart, Sharpham Cheese has a range of nine multi-award winning cheeses to choose from, plus Peter’s Yard sourdough crackers and new Sharpham chutneys to complete the showstopping centrepieces. Choose from a simple three-tier creation to an extravagant six-tier tower crowned with a heart-shaped cheese at the top. The team can help couples to pick a balance of flavours and characteristics, like the smooth, silky brie and the complex mushroom Washbourne sheep’s cheese. Each cheese celebration cake is individually crafted, shaped and aged from scratch, to ensure it’s the perfect centrepiece for the occasion and the process is personal for each booking. It starts with a phone call to understand the exact requirements and then the customer is welcome to visit Sharpham Dairy, located in the Dart Valley, to meet the cheesemakers and decide which varieties work best. If that’s not possible, a cheese taster box will be sent in the post. Once the cheeses and accompaniments have been confirmed, Sharpham Cheese gets to work crafting the individual cheese cake. Sharpham’s Greg Parsons tells us, “Our cheeses are all handmade here in Devon, with each small batch unique to Sharpham Estate. Flavours, aromas and textures are influenced from the terroir here – thanks to the rich variety of grasses and herbs that grow in the Dart Valley.” To shop, visit www.sharphamcheese.co.uk New Cornish launch Tarquin’s hand-crafted Cornish gin has unveiled its limited-edition Black Cherry Gin infused with fresh-pressed black cherries and a touch of orange zest creating a rich, zingy and vibrant spirit. Made in small batches in one of Tarquin’s flame-fired copper pot stills, this limited-edition release is only available until April 2022. To shop, visit https://shop.tarquinsgin.com Congratulations! Marty Norsworthy of Norsworthy Photography based in Kingsbridge, Devon, was recently awarded Global Round Winner in the International Wedding Awards just weeks after winning the Country Round and the Local (Regional) Round. The Awards honour those wedding businesses that go the extra mile and deliver a quality service. All sectors of the wedding industry are represented, from florists and make-up artists to transport suppliers. To book Martyn for your wedding, visit www.norsworthyweddings.com EDITOR LOVES Cornish drinks brand High Point has unveiled a great premium non-alcoholic fermented aperitif and digestif for a healthier drinks choice for weddings. High Point Ruby Aperitif and High Point Amber Digestif provide a serve that’s full of flavour made without artificial flavours or colours with natural ingredients from the surrounding Cornish countryside and mixed with Cornish spring water and tea leaves. These botanicals are then infused, fermented and blended to produce drinks that are layered in flavours, deep in aromas and complexity. To shop, visit https://highpointdrinks.co.uk YOUR ESSENTIALS 9
Honey Bugs is based in Cornwall and provides vintage VWWedding campers for your big day! www.honeybugscornwall.co.uk T: 01209 822383 E: contact.honeybugscornwall@gmail.com handsomehank01 BugsCornwall bugscornwall “Sara and Symeon went above and beyond to make our day that little bit more special. Their communication from the very start was faultless. Everything was so easy from the point of booking to the actual day. I’d highly recommend them.” John Green M. 07970 519161 E. john@jgde.co.uk www.jgde.co.uk Professional DJ & Custom Lighting Engineer Over 20 Years Experience Entertainments Dynamic
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER VIA OUR WEBSITE. Closing date 3rd June 2022. Terms and conditions apply. ABRACADABRA! A professional wedding magician is a perfect way to keep guests entertained during the wedding reception because they can spend plenty of time sitting around waiting for the photographer to finish, dinner to be served or speeches to start. Plymouth-based Lewis Belcher is an award-winning magician covering weddings and events throughout Devon and Cornwall. He specialises in close-up and table magic, performing tricks with cards, coins and rings, as well as illusions, predictions and even mind reading. Lewis tells us, “Hiring a professional wedding magician with plenty of tricks up their sleeve is the perfect way to amuse people. Magic is something that everyone can appreciate, from small children to the older generation, and it translates into any language and culture. The shared experience of watching me, and participating in my tricks, can help break the ice with guests who don’t know each other and it’s guaranteed fun, adding the wow factor to any celebration. A good magician can make you believe in magic but a great magician can be the magic!” Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding has teamed up with Lewis to offer readers a 10% discount when hiring him to perform at a wedding. To book, call 01752 936 086 quoting YDCW36 and to find out more, visit http://lbmagic.uk www.facebook.com/lbmagicuk Take advantage of these great giveaways ies &OFFERS Coppa Club’s The Swan at Streatley is a tranquil countryside getaway set in the Berkshire village of Streatley. Situated on the River Thames, roughly an hour from London, the 47-bedroom property has been newly refurbished and offers river-view rooms, or suites opening onto the garden lawn making it a great option for a dog-friendly getaway! The grounds include the property’s own private island, lovely walks for couples and families (and four-legged companions) and the property is also ideal for riverside weddings, seating up to 130 friends and family! Perfect for a pre- or post-wedding getaway, guests can access the property via car, boat or helicopter and have access to on-site paddle boarding, exercise classes, hotel gym and events throughout the year. You can book a Small Double Room from £80 per night, and a Medium Double Room from £100 per night. Check out www.theswanatstreatley.com County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Coppa Club The Swan At Streatley 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 Images courtesy of www.oliverturl.com FREEBIES & OFFERS 11
www.uptonbarn.com THE 2021 WEDDING INDUSTRY AWARDS: NATIONAL WINNER IMAGE BY JOSHUA GOODING PHOTOGRAPHY Upton Barn - Advertorial - Your Devon & Cornwall Magazine (quarter page)_rev 2.indd 1 29/09/2021 14:44 Where Wedding Dreams Do Come True! An English Historical Landmark Bickleigh Castle bickleighcastle.com Bickleigh Castle, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 8RP | 01884 855 363 | weddings@bickleighcastle.com BC_Devon_Cornwall_Wedding_mag_July2019.indd 1 20/07/2019 10:16
EAST AND MID DEVON Spotlight on... These wonderful settings all have a story to tell HUNTSHAM COURT, HUNTSHAM Huntsham Court is one of the finest examples of a Victorian gothic private mansion in the countryside. The venue is a hidden gem, with no view of it from the surrounding roads, it’s only as visitors head up the sweeping driveway that they catch a glimpse of the impressive building, with its turret, floor-to-ceiling windows and open grounds with views stretching across the stunning Devon countryside. This exclusive-use country house wedding venue offers a welcoming home-from-home atmosphere. The venue has five large main reception rooms and a sweeping oak staircase in the entrance hall, perfect for big-day photos. Each room has been lovingly and sympathetically designed, keeping many of its original features including parquet flooring throughout the ground floor, marble archway columns in the Great Hall, Jacobean wooden panelled walls and open fireplaces. The entire house is decorated in an eclectic mix of styles and colours and can sleep up to 92 guests across 40 bedrooms, all of which are a unique design, with four-poster beds, canopy king-sized beds, twin rooms and family bedrooms. The grounds are made up of five acres with open lawns for outdoor gatherings during the summer months. There’s space for garden games, lounging areas with benches and outdoor furniture, a tennis court, a beautiful Cedar tree, ancient Beech trees and a giant parasol offering plenty of shade, plus the beautiful Dovecote for outdoor ceremonies with enough seating for up to 130 guests set against the unrivalled views of rolling fields and woodlands. Ceremonies also take place in a variety of rooms inside the house including the Great Hall for up to 100 guests (with additional standing space), in the Diamond Room with its marble fireplace and antique tapestry for up to 70 loved ones, and the Yellow Room, Library and the entrance hall. Receptions tend to take place in the Great Hall during the cooler months, with its open fire for up to 130 guests. The reception rooms all flow from one another providing plenty of space and during the evening, there’s room to relax in the grand Diamond room or cosy up in the Bar Snug. During the warmer months, receptions can take place outdoors in the grounds, with most guests occupying the top lawn while drinks and canapés are served. Ceremony licence: Yes Contact: 01398 361 277, www.huntshamcourt.co.uk ♥ We love... the wedding suite that features two freestanding baths placed next to each other, ideal for newlyweds. Images courtesy of www.siobhanbealesphoto.com; www.evolvephoto.co.uk and www.katedixonphotography.co.uk REGIONAL VENUES 13
BICKLEIGH CASTLE, TIVERTON This historic 11th-century castle and 6th-century Saxon chapel are situated next to the River Exe which flows down to Exmouth, combining a tranquil river setting with magnificent countryside views. The charming newly decorated thatched cottages that provide comfortable guest accommodation are dotted around the central courtyard and the elegant bridal suite is a charming Tudor room with a four-poster bed located inside the actual castle. Ceremonies take place in a variety of areas depending on the size of the party including outside on the lawn under the gazebo, adjacent to the river and next to the chapel. The Great Hall can accommodate between 50 to 120 guests with 70 loved ones seated for dinner. The beautiful Banqueting Room is another ceremony choice for between 50 to 120 people and this long room with rustic oak beams can host up to 120 for the wedding breakfast. There’s also The Orangery that can sit between 40 and 60 people for the ceremony and the Guard Room for intimate weddings of up to 30 loved ones. The pretty manicured gardens are home to a bank of rhododendrons at the back of the lawn that bloom during late spring and early summer, making an Insta-worthy backdrop for photos, plus a croquet lawn, tennis court, area to play cricket and a hot tub. The castle’s tower ruin is another great spot for couple portraits. Ceremony licence: Yes Contact: 01884 855 363, https://bickleighcastle.com ♥ We love... that couples get to meet the chef and sit down for a three-course tasting experience ahead of their wedding where they get to sample the fabulous Bickleigh Castle-branded red and white wine! MIDDLE COOMBE FARM, TIVERTON This Grade II listed thatched farmhouse and the converted barn is set in the heart of the rolling Devonshire countryside. Nestled in its own private valley, it’s surrounded by more than 400 acres of woodland, unspoilt meadows and pretty gardens perfect for big-day photographs. Accommodation is provided in the Grade II listed farmhouse and converted barn sleeping up to 20 guests who can enjoy the use of the private solar-heated swimming pool and hot tub. Ceremonies, the wedding breakfast and evening reception take place in the traditional cider barn, home to the original cider press, for up to 100 guests. The Drawing Room inside the farmhouse is suitable for micro and elopement weddings and there’s also an outdoor ceremony site in the heart of the woodland set against the backdrop of an ancient oak tree for hand-fasting ceremonies and blessings with the woodland glade acting as the aisle. Picnics can be arranged here and there’s also the option of a luxury marquee overlooking the meadow that can be used for dining and dancing. Ceremony licence: Yes Contact: 01884 821 176, www.coombefarmwoods.co.uk ♥ We love... the private glamping hut nestled in the meadow, perfect for newlyweds. 14
DEVON’S BEST RUSTIC VENUE Weddings for up to 150 guests Stunning country location Accommodation Outdoor or Indoor Ceremonies Lakeside, Barn & Farmhouse Weddings Weekend Packages Relaxed Family Atmosphere w w w. d e e r s l e a p r e t r e a t . c o . u k enquiries@deersleapretreat.co.uk | +44 (0)1398 341407 | Deer’s Leap Retreat, West Anstey, South Molton, Devon, EX36 3NZ Start your life together in the most romantic setting The dramatic Music Room is nestled within a 10,000 acre private estate with enchanting gardens and lake, creating an unspoilt panorama of the rolling hills of Exmoor. 2022 dates still available Parracombe, Barnstaple EX31 4RF www.woolhanger.com Call the Estate Office: 01598 763309 Viewing by appointment only 2021 dates still available
Weddings Looking to say ‘I do’ on Dartmoor? Set in 275 acres of beautiful countryside and rolling valleys, Bovey Castle is a truly unforgettable wedding venue in Devon. With its rich history, effortless charm and elegance, you can enjoy a wedding like no other at Bovey Castle. Stunning landscaped gardens and period architecture offer the perfect backdrop for wedding photographs. CALL OUR WEDDING TEAM ON 01647 445098 BOVEY CASTLE, NORTH BOVEY, DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK 01647 445098 | WEDDINGS@BOVEYCASTLE.COM | BOVEYCASTLE.COM BOVEY CASTLE, NORTH BOVEY, DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK 01647 445098 | WEDDINGS@BOVEYCASTLE.COM | BOVEYCASTLE.COM 2_2022 - Your Devon and Cornwall Wedding Magazine - BC.indd 1 01/03/2022 11:13 I N S E C L UD E D & A C C E S S I B L E E A S T D E VON Unique outdoor venue with a willow ‘cathedral’, silver birch ‘church’ and barn. Glamping and farmhouse accommodation for relaxed weekend weddings. WWW . H I G H E R HO L COMB E . CO . U K Instagram @higher.holcombe Canonteign Falls offers an impressive venue in a breathtaking setting Home to one of England’s highest waterfalls Canonteign Falls is a magnificent example of a Victorian folly set in 90 acres of ancient woodland and estate on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park in Devon. The waterfalls themselves descend for over 70m through ferns and woods. At the base of the falls, the woodland gives way to meadows and lakes making this one of the most breathtaking venues in Devon. With a lakeside Pagoda, event Barn, excellent facilities, and free parking the site is well set up to service any bespoke event and provides an impressive backdrop to suit any occasion. A small but experienced event team is on hand to coordinate all events seamlessly at Canonteign Falls estate. Please do contact Managing director Lianne Bell through events@canonteign.com to arrange a site visit. www.canonteignevents.co.uk 01647 252614 ext 2 | events@canonteign.com
ASHRIDGE GREAT BARN, NORTH TAWTON This historic building set on a working farm in the Devon countryside has been sensitively restored to retain many original features creating a rustic ambience with real character. The split-level space features a built-in dancefloor, bar and flexible entryways. The venue is nestled in its own valley surrounded by green pastures and woodland, with the formal gardens, home to an arboretum planted by the Victorians and a pretty walled garden promising a stunning view just a short walk away. The exterior space includes a firepit, space for food trucks and seating as well as a catering barn and a lawn area, perfect for summer weddings. There are four licensed ceremony spaces including The Main Barn for up to 120 guests, the Snug for an intimate 40 loved ones and the Magic Circle Pavilion in the gardens, a special space enclosed by a ring of conifers lined with Japanese Maple trees. The Woodland Glade, a clearing in mature woodland surrounded by trees, is new for weddings in 2022. Receptions take place in The Main Barn for up to 140 guests seated at round or trestle tables. The Magic Circle Pavilion and the gardens provide a stunning backdrop for a drinks reception or afternoon tea party and there’s no maximum capacity but if the weather is uncooperative then it’s helpful if all the guests fit in the barn! Ceremony licence: Yes Contact: 01837 352 025, www.ashridge-court.co.uk ♥ We love... that the venue is only available for exclusive use with a limited number of weddings held each year. All bookings are for three days (so there’s time to set everything up) and couples will have access to a prop collection to style the venue with, experienced staff on hand to help and no corkage charges. HAREFIELD BARN, CREDITON A large oak-framed porch welcomes guests to this exclusive-use, family-run barn ‘venue with a view’ that’s situated on a farm in the heart of the South Devon countryside. The light and spacious interior of the barn offers a homely feel with all the character of a barn venue but with a modern vibe. A tall gable-end window and glass wall allows for fabulous far-flung views. Three sets of large bi-fold doors open out on to the terrace from both the Sawpit Bar and Main Hall and flexible room layout options have been designed to showcase the panoramic views. The spacious paved terrace with seating flows directly on to the extensive lawn area and the field beyond. On the terrace, The Clock House provides the perfect location for an al fresco ceremony, and steps lined with ornamental grasses lead to the special horseshoe sculpture, perfect for photographs. There’s also a wildflower meadow, festoon lighting, a firepit and ample parking. Ceremonies take place in a choice of licensed areas including the Main Hall for 150 seated and 200 standing, the chapel-like space with a vaulted ceiling known as The Tallet for up to 100 guests and The Clock House, an al fresco ceremony space commanding a stunning location. There’s also the intimate Leveret Suite that can hold a maximum of ten loved ones for the ceremony and The Gallery, a mezzanine area above the Main Hall licensed for 30 loved ones. The wedding breakfast and evening reception usually takes place in the Main Hall for up to 140 loved ones seated at round tables or up to 200 guests when some of the tables are cleared and people can spread into the bar and up on to the gallery. Ceremony licence: Yes Contact: 07541 121 404, www.harefieldbarn.co.uk ♥ We love... that this relatively new venue has availability for dates throughout 2022. Interior of Harefield Barn courtesy of www.helencourtphotography.com and external photograph courtesy of https://evolvephoto.co.uk Photography of Magic Circle Ceremony Space courtesy of https://fionawalsh.co.uk 17 REGIONAL VENUES
INCLUDED IN OUR WEDDING PACKAGES Dedicated wedding planner and master of ceremonies 3-course wedding breakfast Drinks package including drinks on arrival, with meal and toast Evening buffet Flower arrangements for all your tables Red Carpet arrival Complimentary use of silver cake stand and knife Bed and Breakfast for the newlyweds Discounted accommodation for your guests LET YOUR DREAM WEDDING UNFOLD WITH THE HELPING HAND FROM OUR DEDICATED WEDDING PLANNER, WHO WILL DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO MAKE YOUR DREAM WEDDING A REALITY We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and understand the importance of making your day your own which is why we offer packages to help you tailor your wedding to suit you. We offer a range of packages that will transform your wedding into the most magical day imaginable. Whatever you decide, we will create a stunning wedding celebration for you and your loved ones to cherish. t 01271 376221 wbarnstaplehotel.co.uk eevents@barnstaplehotel.co.uk Braunton Road, Barnstaple, Devon EX31 1LE EVER AFTER Happily from £3800 Based on 50 daytime & 100 evening guests
Hot hotels These fabulous settings, some featuring spas, all host weddings BEDRUTHAN, MAWGAN PORTH, CORNWALL This Scandinavian-inspired retreat is perched on top of the Cornish clifftops overlooking Mawgan Porth Beach, offering an idyllic choice for nature-loving couples. The hotel has been designed to the highest eco-standards with the local environment in mind, boasting airy, spacious and colourful interiors reflected in the variety of bedrooms with views either looking out over the golden sands of Mawgan Porth or of the Cornish landscape (the property has been built to achieve a glimpse of the far-flung views from every angle). Most rooms have freestanding baths, all have large power showers, fluffy bathrobes, towels, and Tri-Dosha holistic wellness products, plus the hotel’s villa has its own patio terrace. Food plays a pivotal part of the experience with Bedruthan being home to two dining options – The Wild Café located on the clifftop offering enviable views of the landscape and a variety of dishes from summer squash curries, thickly-crusted pies and bright seasonal salads. Meanwhile, The Herring restaurant offers a small and meticulously curated menu of locally sourced, seasonal dishes celebrating the region. Each evening sees only three mains offered (fish, meat, or a vegetable choice) featuring a wide variety of bold flavours. Afternoon tea can also be enjoyed here with a selection of delicate patisseries and savoury sandwiches on offer. Wellness-loving duos can enjoy the sea-view, environmentally friendly spa facilities (including an indoor swimming pool, hydro pool, sauna, steam room and Roman-style caldarium). There’s also the Sensory Spa Gardens plus relaxation lounges, fireside and poolside. The setting is perfect for laid-back weddings, from elopements and low-key micro weddings to larger more extravagant affairs. The Garden Room is a quiet, intimate space tucked away with large windows revealing views stretching across the North Cornish cliffs. During the evening reception here, guests can gather around the romantic glow of the dune garden’s firepit. The Venue is a larger space where guests enter through a dedicated entrance and it’s home to a private bar and a sun terrace. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01637 861 200, www.bedruthan.com ♥ We love... the Day Spa packages and Bedruthan treatment combinations, perfect for some pre-wedding pampering. NEW CONTINENTAL HOTEL, PLYMOUTH, DEVON This grand Victorian hotel is a landmark building in Plymouth marrying traditional Art Deco details with modern elements. The city centre location offers a variety of photographic backdrops close by, from Plymouth Hoe and Royal William Yard to Devonport Park. Inside, the glamorous vintage décor and romantic, classic style make it the perfect setting for a timeless wedding. Ceremonies usually take place in the Green Room for up to 50 guests but the Athena Room for up to 150 loved ones and the Executive Room holding up to 100 people are other stylish options. Receptions can take place in the Athena Room and the Green Room but also the Ballroom for up to 250 loved ones with its glittering chandeliers, own bar and dancefloor. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01752 276 798, www.newcontinental.co.uk ♥ We love... the complimentary Club Continental gym membership available to the couple when they book the Continental or Deluxe Package, to begin one year before the wedding date, plus a complimentary tasting is included in the Deluxe Package. Interior of New Continental Hotel courtesy of www.margorphotography.com THEMED VENUES 19
THE DUKE OF CORNWALL HOTEL, PLYMOUTH, DEVON This magnificent hotel, Plymouth’s first luxury one, is positioned on the fringe of Britain’s Ocean City adjacent to Millbay Park which offers a fantastic green space perfect for big-day photographs. A short stroll from the hotel is another wonderful photographic opportunity at Plymouth Hoe, which offers sensational ocean views across Plymouth Sound. The Gothic Grade 11 listed building with feature windows, towers and turrets dates back to 1863 and boasts a canopy entrance, ornate architectural features and revolving entrance doors. The interior offers a wealth of historic features, with grand rooms and hallways, glittering chandeliers, period columns and a stunning Grade II listed sweeping staircase. Weddings take place in a variety of stylish function rooms to suit a range of party sizes, from 10 to 300. The options include the stately Ballroom, a grand space with atmospheric lighting, a fixed stage for entertainment, a private bar and a dancefloor, or the grand Dining Room with its spectacular domed ceiling and chandelier. There’s also the more intimate Millbay Suite, a sophisticated setting for a smaller celebration boasting a feature fireplace and last but not least, the chic Hayward Room, a magnificent space featuring beautiful bay windows showcasing superb views over King Point Marina. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01752 275 850, www.thedukeofcornwall.co.uk ♥ We love... the choice of four fantastic wedding packages on offer with the option for couples to create a bespoke package based on their requirements. HARBOUR ST IVES, CORNWALL This popular coastal retreat offering guests an oasis of calm just a stone’s throw from the long sandy Porthminster Beach. The 52-room sea-view property is the ultimate Cornish seaside oasis serving up British beachside elegance at its very best. The luxurious property has recently enjoyed a refurbishment with all rooms renovated in a chic colour scheme of pink, blue and green, while the exterior has been repainted in a charming Cornish slate colour and decorated with hanging baskets, botanical plants and new signage. Harbour Hotels recently introduced a new foodie concept, Harbour Kitchen, to five of its properties including Harbour St Ives. It champions classic British dishes created with unexpected twists, offering in-season, sustainable and local produce. The menus enjoy wild-caught seafood, grass-fed meat and fresh seasonal produce as well as internationally inspired dishes such as steamed mussels with Thai coconut chill and lime, and seabass fillet with mussels, pak choi and miso broth. Couples can relax at the property’s indulgent HarSPA featuring a heated pool, hot tub, cedarwood sauna and luxurious treatments courtesy of ESPA. Chic seaside weddings take place in The Harbour Suite, the property’s largest wedding space, catering for both the ceremony and reception for up to 160 guests seated or 200 for the reception. The Godrevy Sands Suite boasts a private terrace with steps down to the beach and is the perfect spot for pre and post-ceremony receptions and evening celebrations. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01736 795 221, www.harbourhotels.co.uk/st-ives ♥ We love... the other Harbour Hotels in Devon and Cornwall including Sidmouth Harbour Hotel, Harbour Fowey, Padstow Harbour Hotel, Harbour Salcombe and the latest addition to the Harbour portfolio, the new Harbour Beach Club & Hotel located in Salcombe, a luxurious family-friendly retreat located on the charming shoreline of South Sands Beach. Exterior image of Duke of Cornwall hotel courtesy of Artography and table set-up courtesy of www.tobylowephotography.co.uk Scan to view video www.baxterandted.com 20
Millbay Rd, Plymouth PL1 3LD T: 01752 220782 E: weddings@newcontinental.co.uk W: newcontinental.co.uk NewContinentalHotel continentalhote newcontinentalhotel Louise Eleanor Photography, www.louiseleanor.com
Our aim is to turn your vision into a reality creating lasting memories to cherish forever. THE HARTNOLL HOTEL, BOLHAM, TIVERTON, DEVON, EX16 7RA www.hartnollhotel.co.uk events@hartnollhotel.co.uk | 01884 252 777
THE HORN OF PLENTY, TAVISTOCK, DEVON This luxurious award-winning country hotel is set in five acres of pretty landscaped grounds just a stone’s throw from the picturesque Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Dartmoor National Park. A recent redevelopment sees the spacious rooms decorated with vibrant pops of colour and the 2 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant features wall-to-ceiling sliding doors leading to the decked terrace that showcases spectacular views. Outdoor ceremonies take place against this backdrop with guests enjoying al fresco drinks and garden games in the manicured walled garden. The grounds are home to a pond, a wild orchard and pretty walkways perfect for big-day photographs. The large Acer (maple) tree positioned just outside the restaurant adds romance to winter weddings turning seasonal shades of orange and red. In the main house, exclusive-use weddings can take place for up to 90 guests during the day and 120 people in the evening. Larger parties can enjoy a marquee in the grounds while for couples wanting something small and intimate, the team at the hotel can offer elopement weddings, afternoon nuptials and smaller celebrations without exclusive use of the property being taken. Ceremonies take place in a choice of four licensed rooms and for those wanting a church wedding, there are some local country and town-based churches close by. Couples can then visit the hotel for reception drinks, the wedding breakfast and evening celebrations. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01822 832 528, www.thehornofplenty.co.uk ♥ We love... that every wedding that takes place at the property is bespoke. Owner Julie (featured in the video) and her team are superflexible, helping couples design, organise and implement their special day to be unique to them. CONGRATULATIONS! Idyllic Cornish wedding venue Polurrian on the Lizard is celebrating after being awarded Silver in the Wedding Venue of the Year category in the Cornwall Tourism Awards 2021/22. The hotel’s weddings and events manager, Megan Walsingham was also awarded Bronze in the Unsung Hero category. The competition, which is now in its 20th year, saw an increased 125 entries. Winners were announced on 3rd February, with the organisers congratulating the resilience of this year’s finalists in an ever-challenging environment. General manager Grant Callaghan tells us, “We pride ourselves on taking a truly personal approach to organise and host weddings here at Polurrian on the Lizard and it’s been an absolute pleasure seeing happy couples being able to celebrate their big day once more in such a special location.” He continues, “Particular praise goes to our weddings and events manager, Megan Walsingham who achieved the further accolade of Bronze in the Unsung Hero category for her tireless efforts in making dreams come true.” Megan, who joined the team in April 2021, has made a huge impact on the wedding offering and has received glowing feedback from guests. “I help couples from enquiry right through to the big day, including the planning, meetings and execution,” she explains. “It’s important to me to have a great relationship with all of my couples and that they know they can come to me with any queries, big or small. I have also worked hard to build great relationships with suppliers, potential clientele and staff within the hotel.” “As well as boasting incredible views from its clifftop location, Polurrian on the Lizard benefits from the best sunsets in Cornwall. This, coupled with a variety of packages to suit all budgets and bespoke menus easily catering for all dietary requirements makes Polurrian the perfect choice for marking that special day,” concludes Grant. With reception rooms boasting unbeatable views out over Mounts Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, four function rooms to choose from, fantastic food and drink and 41 individually styled bedrooms, Polurrian on the Lizard is an idyllic coastal spot for both intimate weddings and larger parties. The venue can also be hired on an exclusive basis, providing use of the entire hotel and 12 acres of cliff-top gardens. Originally built in 1890, the property was a fashionable railway hotel appealing to distinguished guests. Destroyed by a fire in 1909 and rebuilt, the hotel has hosted glamorous guests from Hollywood’s heyday to Strictly Come Dancing stars. Every bit as welcoming now as it was then, the modern-day Polurrian on the Lizard remains a fashionable escape with a health club and spa and restaurant serving up Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01326 240 421, www.polurrianhotel.com ♥ We love... that as part of the Exclusive-Use Package, all guests staying over will receive breakfast and the happy couple will be invited to a food tasting and a one-night stay in a sea view room before their wedding. There’s also an Elopement Package available for couples only. 23
TO HAVE and to hold Bryony and Zoe’s special day at Trevenna enjoyed a blush pink, white and green colour theme Images courtesy of Louise Richey Photography Bryony and Zoe Summerfield married on 7th August 2021 at Trevenna in Liskeard, Cornwall. 24
Bryony and Zoe attended the same secondary school where they became best friends. “We shared similar interests and our friendship grew stronger after we left school,” they tell us. “Five years later, we fell in love and purchased a house together.” The couple became engaged on 26th June 2019 when Bryony proposed to Zoe at Bigbury on Sea beach in Devon. “I couldn’t think of anything better than having Zoe as my wife,” Bryony tells us. “I asked her mum and dad for their blessing before popping the question at our favourite spot. Zoe’s mum Debbie had helped me choose the ring which was a big surprise for Zoe, and she said “yes” instantly - plenty of happy tears were shared!” SETTING THE SCENE The couple wanted a venue that would accommodate their ceremony and reception. “When we first viewed Trevenna, we loved the natural beauty of the place and the fact that it was in a secluded, private location,” they tell us. “It offered multiple options for where we could have our ceremony, both inside and outdoors, meaning we didn’t have to worry about the weather and the hosts were very welcoming and could cater for all of our needs. It also allowed up to 40 guests to stay for the entire weekend with us which was important because it “I felt nervous in the morning and was the most emotional one during the ceremony! I became more relaxed during the evening – the day just went by so quickly and I didn’t stop smiling!” – Bryony REAL WEDDINGS 25
Whether it’s creating the perfect look for your bridal makeup or helping you plan your wedding down to the last detail, our aim is to truly make it your beautiful day. Our accredited make up artiste and planning team covers Cornwall, Devon and beyond. We all love what we do and it really does show! To find out how we can help you too, call 07412 454549 | www.yourbeautifuldayuk.co.uk
allowed us plenty of quality time to spend with our loved ones.” Bryony and Zoe’s colour theme was blush pink mixed with white and green which was reflected throughout their décor, including in the floral centrepieces which consisted of three vases with one filled with water and a lit floating candle, another brimming with a pink, white and green floral arrangement and a third filled with sand from some of the couple’s favourite beaches with a flag saying ‘hand-picked by Bryony and Zoe’. “In the middle of the vases was a wooden name stand sprayed rose-gold displaying our table names that were after these beaches,” Bryony tells us. “Because my mum used to be a florist, we purchased some wholesale varieties from St Mellion Flowers Cornwall and she used these to create my bouquet and our three bridesmaids’ posies, 15 buttonholes, the table arrangements and aisle flowers. She also used some to decorate our four-tier semi-naked cake. We asked the talented team at St Mellion Flowers Cornwall to dress the arbour, decorate the hanging ladder in the ceremony room and make Zoe’s bouquet and the top table spray which all looked beautiful.” Zoe’s dad owns a window and door business so the couple used a refurbished white internal door with each table name written on the individual glass panes. “We painted these glass panels rose gold and decorated the door with faux foliage which looked great,” they tell us. “We made our hand-written place names using white card placed on cork and sourced an old mirror which we sprayed rose gold to be our order of the day. Zoe’s dad created a sweetie bar using old pallets which were painted grey and pink and we gave sweets, crayons and colouring books as favours to the children and scratch cards in ‘lucky in love’ holders to the adults.” The couple’s guests enjoyed a three-course sit-down meal of arancini balls, caesar salad or crab filo tart to start followed by mushroom wellington, pork or beef as the main course and lemon posset or a trio of brownies for dessert. “The mouth-watering evening food provided by the chefs at the venue included pasties, cheese, meat, bacon rolls and our delicious wedding cake which featured a salted caramel tier, carrot cake and lemon drizzle layers and a raspberry and white chocolate tier.” LOOKING THE PART Bryony chose the wedding dress called Eleanor by Essence of Australia purchased at Prudence Gowns in Plymouth, Devon. “I wore the complete opposite of what I imagined I would,” she tells us. “I thought I wanted something to cover my arms and a style that wasn’t too big but I ended up picking a gown featuring thin straps and a long train which I felt confident and beautiful in. I teamed it with a mid-length plain veil and a floral headpiece, a Swarovski bracelet which Zoe gave to me as a present on the day and a pair of white, flat sandals.” “I felt very happy during our ceremony and was relieved that we had everybody there.We both felt extremely lucky that we could have our wedding on our original planned date with no restrictions because, in the lead-up to our wedding, the pandemic was stressful for us all!” – Zoe REAL WEDDINGS 27
THE DREAM TEAM Venue, catering and cake | Trevenna | 01579 320 013 | www.trevenna.co.uk Photographer | Louise Richey | 07961 692 179 | www.louisericheyphotography.com Videographer | koloreditors | 07594 921 097 | www.koloreditors.co.uk Bryony’s dress | Prudence Gowns | 01752 558 858 | www.prudencegowns.com Zoe’s dress | The Bridal Corner Boutique | 01752 787 878 | www.thebridalcorner.co.uk Hair | Therapy Hair & Beauty Boutique | 01752 337 133 | www.teamtherapy.co.uk Make-up | Your Beautiful Day | 07412 454 549 | www.yourbeautifuldayuk.co.uk Flowers | St Mellion Flowers Cornwall | 01752 845 545 | www.stmellionflowers.co.uk Entertainment | DJ Northey | 07919 962 737 | www.djnorthey.co.uk Saxophonist | Daniel Costin | www.danielcostin.live Photo booth | Vintage Camper Booths | 07766 025 621 | www.vintagecamperbooths.co.uk Bridesmaids’ dresses | Debenhams Suits | House of Fraser Stationery | The Range and Etsy Zoe chose the Kelanna dress by Stella York bought from The Bridal Corner Boutique. “I picked this style because my mum and I cried happy tears as soon as I tried it on,” she tells us. “I loved the detail on it and how it made me look and feel, I just knew it was the one. I wore a short, plain veil, a sparkly tiara, a Pandora bracelet, which Bryony gave to me as a gift on our wedding day, a pair of Swarovski earrings and I finished my look with some white lace sandals.” Both of their dads, and Bryony’s brothers, wore matching navy check three-piece suits teamed with brown shoes and a pink and blue floral tie. “We had three bridesmaids who were two of our best friends and Bryony’s cousin. Each wore long, blush-pink dresses with lace detail and they looked stunning.” TIME TO CELEBRATE After their ceremony, Bryony and Zoe hired a saxophonist, Daniel Costin, to perform. “He entertained our guests whilst we were having our photos taken,” the couple says. “Everyone enjoyed his music and he joined us as we walked into our wedding breakfast and performed a song as we took our seats.” During the evening, the couple booked DJ Northey to get the party started. “We enjoyed half an hour of rock music during his set because Bryony’s family are rockers at heart!” Zoe tells us. “This was a highlight of the evening and was very entertaining! DJ Northey also played our first dance song, This Will Be An Everlasting Love by Natalie Cole, as we performed our rehearsed routine – we had plenty of fun doing it and our guests loved it!” Bryony and Zoe also booked a VW Campervan photo booth for their guests to enjoy. “There were plenty of fun props for them to dress up in and unlimited prints for everyone to take home,” they tell us. “The talented team at Trevenna made our day run without any worries - our guests were smiling all day and night because they were so attentive. Our photographers, Louise Richey and Steve, had our guests laughing throughout, capturing priceless, natural moments and working seamlessly with our videographer.” – Bryony and Zoe 28
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