Hollywood-inspired gowns JUL/AUG 2025 £3.55 DEVON CORNWALL & WEDDING Sustainable STYLE Eco-friendly wedding ideas Aisle-worthy dresses WHAT TO PACK Honeymoon must-haves Sweet TOOTH Big-day bakes and sweet treats
Website: www.osborne-torquay.co.uk Instagram: @osborne_hotel_torquay Facebook: @osbornehotel The best day of your life deserves a unique and memorable setting, and where better to celebrate your love than overlooking the sparkling sea in a historic regency hotel. The Osborne Hotel is grand enough to be luxurious and yet small enough to offer unrivalled care and attention to each guest. With our historical ambiance and contemporary styling, we believe we offer a unique venue, tailored individually for your dream wedding. We have two options for your civil ceremony or partnership, each with their own unique character and charm. With panoramic sea views that overlook Meadfoot beach our venue brings an oceanic touch to your ceremony. Weddings & Civil Ceremonies THE OSBORNE HOTEL Osborne Hotel, Hesketh Crescent, Torquay, TQ1 2LL E: events@osborne-torquay.co.uk T: 01803 213311
REGULARS 7 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Claire 9 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions 86 COMPETITION WIN! A luxury mid-week break for two at the Gainsborough Bath Spa worth £1,250 CONTENTS JULY/AUGUST 2025 VENUES 13 GOING LOCAL Venues in North & West Devon On the cover Devon-based wedding photographer Laura Farmer from Freeformimages Photography (freeformimages.co.uk) captured this stunning cover image from the Tennessee-inspired styled shoot showcased on page 27 featuring a long list of talented local suppliers. 65 FEATURES 27 TENNESSEE WHISKEY KISSES This shoot was inspired by the iconic American state 31 A FLAVOUR FOR ALL SEASONS Tasty wedding cake fillings and frostings 35 A SUSTAINABLE DAY Eco-friendly ways to make your wedding fabulous 38 UNCONVENTIONAL WEDDING HACKS TikTok creator, Anna Konstantopoulos, who runs the page @unseenandbelieved, created a viral video for users to reveal their innovative wedding hacks 40 WEDDING GUEST ETIQUETTE Wedding guest advice to help you avoid the classic blunders 9 13 3
HONEYMOONS 76 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 78 AVA MOMENT IN MEXICO Richard Jones tells us all about his time at two all-inclusive heavens on the Yucatán Peninsula 80 EXPLORE ITALY From world-class accommodation to memorable excursions – here is your ultimate guide to honeymooning in Italy 82 SAIL AWAY Experience the high life aboard a luxury river cruise along the Rhine 84 A HIDDEN GEM Take a moment to relax at the delightful Bush Hotel Farnham 85 THE MAGIC OF MERSEA ISLAND Rachel Westall enjoyed a stylish stay at The White Hart Inn, Essex’s best kept secret 54 21 REAL WEDDINGS 16 A DREAM DAY Annie and Rajah enjoyed the beautiful backdrop of Trevenna for their celebration 21 A SECRET ELOPEMENT Jenn and Tom married at Carswell Cove. GROOMS 71 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 72 FAMOUS FIVE Here are five completely different looks – which one takes your fancy? 74 GET A WHIFF OF THAT Explore the hottest men’s fragrances on the market 75 GROOMSMEN GIFTING Find the perfect present for the man of the moment, fathers-of-the-bride and -groom, best men and ushers 66 76 FASHION & BEAUTY 42 100 DRESSES Searching for the one? Swoon over 100 of our favourite dresses sure to inspire your style – you’re welcome! 54 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 55 ROMANCE RUNNING WILD Add an ethereal touch with these bohemian styles 61 RED-CARPET READY These aisle-approved styles ooze Hollywood-inspired glamour 65 SUNSET DRESSING These pieces deserve a place in your honeymoon suitcase 66 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with the latest must-haves 69 FACE FACTS Five truths everyone should know about skincare 4
Weddings at www.thedartmouthhotel.co.uk We have everything you need to make your big day unforgettable. With two function suites, private bar and sun terrace your guests can enjoy the day in one place, no need to worry about additional travel. The event space is yours all day! We have pre set packages as a guide for you, but we are more than happy to produce a bespoke package. Catering to all your wants and needs on your special day! All bookings come with exclusive use of the function space, function bar, sun terrace and the Valley Suite included for the night of your wedding! With two function rooms you are able to have your ceremony, drinks reception, wedding breakfast and evening do all in one place. No need to move about to different venues or areas of the hotel. Your guests can also enjoy a special room rate if they wish to stay! For more information or for a brochure please contact our events team. Email - salesmanager@thedartmouthhotel.co.uk Call - 01803 712686 Quote “your devon & cornwall wedding” and get an exclusive discount on the room hire charge!
“Sara & Sym compliment the beauty of their vehicles. Their services are second to none, nothing is too much trouble & they fit in with any event as if they are related to their customers.” contact.honeybugscornwall@gmail.com 01209 822 383 | 07981 166098 @honeybugscornwall | www.honeybugscornwall.co.uk Best Wedding Transport in Cornwall from Simply weddings Awards 2019, 2021, 2022 & 2023! Introducing Sea Forts Cornwall, a stunning new wedding venue for 2025. O ering weddings and elopements at the iconic Maker Heights in South East Cornwall. Contact Lara at ido@seafortscornwall.com to request a brochure. @mickredcornwall http://sarahbrittainedwards.com The Old Guard House, Maker Heights, Maker Lane, Millbrook www.seafortscornwall.com www.uptonbarn.com THE 2021 WEDDING INDUSTRY AWARDS: NATIONAL WINNER IMAGE BY JOSHUA GOODING PHOTOGRAPHY
This is always one of my favourite issues of the year to put together. I adore the late-summer season and everything that comes with it, from early Sunday morning yoga sessions on the beach near me to enjoying the long balmy evenings catching up with loved ones at the many al fresco restaurants close by. For those of you putting the finishing touches to a late summer celebration, take inspiration from the local real-life wedding couples in this issue. Country music fans will adore the Tennessee-inspired theme of our exclusive styled shoot photographed at the new Devon-based venue HARTA Retreat. I’m off to Tennessee in November so it has certainly inspired me! There’s also all the latest wedding news, red-carpet-worthy fashion, beauty tips and tricks and hot honeymoon destinations that make me want to book a plane ticket now! Until the next issue... Claire x ISSN 2397-4133 Your Devon & Cornwall 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 Devon & Cornwall Wedding is published six times a year. Claire Ridley, Editor Summer lovin’ 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 Editor Claire Ridley | 01376 535 611 claire.ridley@county.wedding The red carpet-inspired bridal dresses on page 61 will have you aisle-ready in no time! @CountyWeddingMagazines @countyweddingmagazine @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com Check out the Tennessee-inspired look in our fabulous styled shoot on page 27. Wedding photographer Thomas Frost founded Wedprint Pro. Read more in the news section on page nine. How happy does real wedding couple Annie and Rajah look here on their wedding day at Trevenna in Cornwall? Read about their celebration on page 21. ADVERTISING Account Manager Ruth Swallow | 01376 538 568 ruth.swallow@county.wedding Win a luxury mid-week break for two at the Gainsborough Bath Spa Worth £1,250 on page 86. Still undecided about where to head off on honeymoon? Our travel section starting on page 76 will have the answer! EDITOR’S LETTER 7
07432 515 761 •07528 800 723 •info@adhoccatering.co.uk adhoccatering.com We specialise in bespoke, individually tailored packages aimed to fit your specific event and theme. We offer everything from Plated wedding breakfasts to hog roasts and buffets and everything in between. We also offer a range of drinks packages, as well as canapes and BBQs. We can't wait to help you with your next event! Taking pride in being part of your special day Welcome to Cornwall Hire! We provide entertainment & prop hire for events, weddings and parties 07553 339 031 • hello@cornwallhire.co.uk www.cornwallhire.co.uk
All the latest from around both regions DEVON-BASED CLAIRE’S KITCHEN IN KINGSBRIDGE OFFERS DELICIOUS BARBECUE MENUS Devon-based Claire’s Kitchen in Kingsbridge offers delicious barbecue menus including vegetarian options for local weddings. With more than 30 years of experience behind her, owner Claire Wallace and the team ensure every detail is well organised for each wedding, whether the couple book a barbecue, a spit roast or another creative, delicious wedding menu. Claire has developed her own spit roast and barbecue equipment designed to cook over hardwood and charcoal. This authentic way creates wonderful aromas and most importantly, it captures that tasty barbecued flavour, as well as being a spectacle for wedding guests. These mouth-watering menus can be offered preferably with a good number of choices served from a large buffet table with staff to assist with not only the serving but collecting guests a table at a time. Staff can carve the meat straight on to each plate ensuring hot food for everybody. Alternatively, with just a few chosen options, guests can share from tasty bowls and platters placed between them on each table. The Claire’s Kitchen team hand-makes food using local produce as much as possible and often has ingredients sourced from their farm located beside the Kingsbridge estuary. They are happy to help create a menu to suit all tastes and budgets. The business is supported by friendly, experienced waiting staff who will serve both drinks and food. The trained group provides a high level of service and is known for efficiency, unobtrusiveness and attention to detail. Clients usually source their wines and there isn’t a corkage charge for this but the team can provide a wine list too. A selection of meat, fish and vegetarian options served with salads are available for the barbecue menu with hot buttered potatoes, chutneys, relishes and more. Highlights include a shoulder, leg or loin of lamb with a stuffing of rosemary and redcurrant, and a whole side of salmon served with crushed pink peppercorns, dill and parsley - what more could wedding guests want! claires-kitchen.co.uk NEWS WEDPRINT PRO INCLUDE AR ON ITS GIFT CARDS Cornwall-based wedding photographer Thomas Frost founded Wedprint Pro to allow couples to order photographerapproved, customisable thank-you cards and save-the-date cards. Additionally, the cards feature the photographers’ branding on the back with direct links via QR codes to their websites and the full wedding gallery. Recently, Wedprint Pro has evolved to include Augmented Reality (AR) on all its gift cards. This innovation allows couples to share their wedding highlight videos or a special surprise message for their guests alongside their professional photos. Wedprint Pro are the only AR-ready and fully customisable card company in the UK. wedprintpro.co.uk thomasfrostphotography.com Nearlywed INHABIT HOTELS AND BYWAY OFFER TRAIN TRAVEL EXPERIENCE TO CORNWALL Two trailblazers in B Corp travel, Inhabit Hotels and Byway have curated 100% flight-free trips beginning and ending at Inhabit Hotels in Southwick Street and Queen’s Gardens, London with routes including to Cornwall, Scotland and the Netherlands. With a shared commitment to wellness, environmental impact, and community-conscious experiences, the partnership offers three new bespoke itineraries that explore hidden gems, powered by Byway’s pioneering routing technology. Travellers can follow the winding railways of Cornwall, visiting St Ives, St Erth, Padstow and Bodmin. These towns are framed by rugged coastlines providing the perfect pick for honeymooners wanting to avoid air travel. inhabithotels.com byway.travel CORNISH COMPANY L&K TRAVEL WIN AWARD Newquay’s local independent and family-run travel agents L&K Travel are national winners of The TUI Community Hero Award. Jessica Gardener, director of Cornish-based L&K Travel said, “We want to thank every single person in our fantastic community for coming together and making this possible. Without generous donations, support and motivation, we wouldn’t have achieved what we did. We want to thank you all, from the bottom of our hearts.” Jessica adds, “You now know that by booking your next getaway with L&K Travel, you are supporting local. You are giving back to your local community. Well done Newquay and let’s make it our mission to give back as much as we possibly can to those within our community that need it most. None of this would be possible without you. Support local, support family, support Newquay!” landktravel.co.uk 9 LOCAL NEWS
GAIA SPA LAUNCH NEW EVERGLOWING FACE AND BODY TREATMENT Award-winning natural spa and skincare brand GAIA Skincare is delighted to unveil its newest signature experience: the Everglowing Face and Body Treatment. Now available at the flagship GAIA Spa at Boringdon Hall, the luxurious five-star manor hotel nestled in the heart of Devon, the treatment has been carefully curated to uplift and revitalise the mind and body. Available as a 60-minute experience priced from £135 or an extended 90-minute treatment from £155, the Everglowing Face and Body Treatment blends mindful rituals, invigorating massage techniques, and radiant skincare to leave guests feeling refreshed, renewed, and truly glowing. The journey begins with GAIA’s renowned signature foot ritual, where guests select from one of three bespoke body oil blends – Awakening, Balancing, or Calming – to personalise their sensory experience. A deeply cleansing back exfoliation follows, preparing the skin for a relaxing back and shoulder massage (available in the 90-minute treatment), designed to ease tension and promote stillness. Guests are then treated to a beautifully layered radiance facial, including a gentle exfoliation to brighten the complexion and an optional face mask to deeply nourish the skin, with neck and shoulder massage during the 90-minute version. A Gua Sha stone facial massage completes the facial, stimulating lymphatic drainage and encouraging a natural lift. GAIA’s new Mineral SPF Moisturiser is then applied, offering natural, broad-spectrum sun protection powered by apricot kernel oil and geranium essential oils – to hydrate, soothe and protect the skin from environmental stressors. The ritual finishes with a stimulating leg and foot massage, incorporating GAIA’s signature Strengthening Fitness Gel, a cooling and revitalising blend of ginger and peppermint to soothe tired muscles and awaken the senses. Diane Nettleton - Founder of GAIA Skincare commented, “Our new Everglowing Treatment was created to provide a complete experience for the body and face to feel uplifted and revitalised. This treatment is set to become a new favourite using some of our hero products, including GAIA Fitness Gel and Naturally Body Butter and our newly launched, natural broad-spectrum SPF. As always, the treatment includes the usual five-star touches you would expect from GAIA.” gaiaboringdon.co.uk EDITOR’S PICK Olivia Lleshaj, founder of Olivia Freelance Hair Stylist based in Redruth, Cornwall offers tips to get hair wedding ready. When it comes to washing hair before the big day, Olivia stresses that timing is key. She tells us, “Washing your locks is one of the most important prep steps, yet it’s often overlooked! Washing your hair at the wrong time - or with the wrong products - can change how your style holds on the big day. In most cases, I recommend that brides wash their hair the day before their wedding because freshly washed hair can be too soft or slippery to hold styles, especially if they want a polished or structured hairdo.” Olivia adds, “It’s all about using the right shampoo. To get the perfect base, I suggest using a sulfate-free shampoo like Color Wow Color Security - it cleans the hair without leaving behind residue or silicones that can interfere with styling. If you’ve been using products in the lead-up or need a fresh reset, an occasional clarifying wash with Alfaparf Semi Di Lino Detoxifying Shampoo works beautifully.” Olivia explains how after washing, it’s best to gently blot your hair with a microfibre towel to help reduce the drying time and prevent damage caused by rough rubbing. She says, “Sleeping on a silk pillowcase the night before your wedding can make a big difference - it helps stop breakage and protects your hair’s natural oils while being kinder to your skin. Every bride’s hair is different so I offer a tailored prep routine before the big day - so your hair feels clean, balanced, and ready to hold your dream style all day long.” oliviafreelancebridal.com GIDLEIGH PARK NAMED BEST LUXURY HOTEL IN THE UK BY TRIPADVISOR TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE BEST OF THE BEST AWARDS 2025 Tripadvisor, the world’s leading travel review platform, has this week revealed the winners of its annual ‘Travellers Choice Awards: Best of the Best Hotels’, and has named Gidleigh Park in Devon as the UK’s top luxury hotel as well as fifth best luxury hotel in the world. Celebrating the highest level of excellence and awarded according to reviews and ratings submitted over the last year, the travel platform analysed 12 months of review data for more than eight million hotel listings. Fewer than 1% achieved ‘The Travellers’ Choice: Best of the Best’ award badge and the top ten winners span 10 worldwide and regional categories, from the definitive Top Hotels, through to All-Inclusive, B&Bs and Inns, Family-Friendly, Small and Boutique and also Luxury, with Gidleigh Park listed at number five in the Worldwide Luxury category, and top of the Luxury UK hotels list. In the Luxury UK category, Tripadvisor shared, “These winning hotels take everything to the next level. Think above-and-beyond service and amenities for days.” Now named the UK’s best luxury hotel, Gidleigh Park offers 24 luxury rooms and suites, all set within a Tudor-style black and white country house, located in a 107-acre estate on the banks of the North Teign River. Alongside the Tripadvisor award, the hotel is also one of just 37 UK hotels to hold two Michelin Keys, a new award introduced in October 2024 given to those hotels which offer ‘an exceptional stay’, as well as a Michelin star for its restaurant, which was retained by executive head chef Ian Webber in February 2025. Regional general manager, Simon Franks comments, “I am delighted for all our wonderful team at Gidleigh Park to have received this new Tripadvisor award. All awards are a joy of course, but those awarded due to the ongoing reviews left by our guests are particularly special, and such positive reviews are down to our brilliant team, who work tirelessly, and with great character and humour, to ensure each guest is welcomed and has a great time while staying with us.” gidleigh.co.uk 10
Your dream wedding day awaits Meet our dedicated Wedding Co-ordinator at boringdonpark.com/weddings Plymouth’s favourite wedding venue with spectacular views across Dartmoor and Plymouth Sound 07494463282 oliviafreelancehairstylist@outlook.com @hairbylivbridal www.oliviafreelancebridal.com Beautiful Bridal Hair, Without the Stress Relaxed • Reliable • Experienced I’mOlivia—afriendlybridal hairstylist with16years’ experience. BasedinCambornefor trials andtravellingtoyour venueonthe bigday. Knownfor mycalm, down-to-earthapproach, I’ll helpyoufeel confident, beautiful, andtrulysupported—likehavingafriend byyour sidewho’s got your back. Sleek, elegant styles Relaxed, supportiveexperiencefromtrial toaisle Trials inCamborne| On-locationstylingacrossCornwall Nowbookingfor2026/2027 @hairdresser23 xantherowland xantherowland Now booking for 2026. 2027 books are opening mid-July. One of Cornwall’s most unique small wedding venues, Pengersick Castle is steeped in history with tales of shipwrecks, smuggling and hidden treasure. Grade I listed and dating back to 1520 the castle oozes charm and character with ornately carved fireplaces, massive beams and fine carved stone mullion windows. The castle makes the most magical backdrop for your special day. PENGERSICK LANE, PRAA SANDS, PENZANCE, CORNWALL TR20 9SJ 01736 763973 | weddings@pengersickcastle.org.uk | www.pengersickcastle.com
Romantic Rustic Barn with Beautiful Pet Friendly Grounds www.ashridgegreatbarn.co.uk Ashridge Great Barn weddings@ashridge-court.co.uk 01837 352025 North Tawton, Devon Ro w www rn t co.uk e-court.co.uk on
Where to wed in North and West Devon North Devon The stunning coastal scenery of North Devon spans towns including Woolacombe, Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, Clovelly and Umberleigh. Picturesque wedding venues include this luxurious selection. TUNNELS BEACHES, ILFRACOMBE, EX34 8AN tunnelsbeaches.co.uk instagram.com/tunnelsbeaches WATERMOUTH COVE WEDDINGS, ILFRACOMBE, EX34 9SJ watermouthcoveweddings.co.uk instagram.com/watermouthcoveweddings SANDY COVE HOTEL, COMBE MARTIN BAY, EX34 9SR sandycove-hotel.co.uk instagram.com/hotelsandycove ARCHES BEACH WEDDINGS, ILFRACOMBE, EX34 0AW archesbeachweddings.com instagram.com/arches_beach_weddings THE CARLTON, ILFRACOMBE, EX34 8AR ilfracombecarlton.co.uk/celebrations/devonwedding-venue facebook.com/ilfracombecarlton ASH BARTON ESTATE, BRAUNTON, EX33 2NP ashbarton.com instagram.com/ashbartonestate SAUNTON SANDS HOTEL, BRAUNTON, EX33 1LQ sauntonsands.co.uk instagram.com/saunton_sandshotel_devon TREE TOP ESCAPE, UMBERLEIGH, EX37 9ER treetopescape.co.uk instagram.com/treetopescape TAWSTOCK COURT, BARNSTAPLE, EX31 3HY tawstockcourt.co.uk instagram.com/tawstockcourt WESTCOTT BARTON, BARNSTAPLE, EX31 4EF westcottbarton.co.uk instagram.com/westcott_barton THE OLD BARN, BIDEFORD, EX39 5RY oldbarnwedding.co.uk instagram.com/old_barn_wedding BEACONSIDE COUNTRY ESTATE, BIDEFORD, EX39 5JL beaconsidehouse.co.uk instagram.com/beaconsidecountryestate HALLSANNERY, BIDEFORD, EX39 5HE hallsannery.co.uk instagram.com/hallsannery OCEAN KAVE, WESTWOOD HO, EX39 1AA oceankave.co.uk instagram.com/oceankave THE MOLE RESORT, UMBERLEIGH, EX37 9HD themoleresort.co.uk instagram.com/themoleresort COUNTRY WAYS, UMBERLEIGH, EX37 9BJ country-ways.net instagram.com/countryways_devon Going local malthousephotography.co.uk TWO BRIDGES HOTEL rabbithousestudiophotography.com THE BEDFORD HOTEL 13 LOCAL VENUES
GLEBE BARN WEDDINGS IN HOLSWORTHY West Devon Wonderful West Devon offers breathtaking scenery and plentiful things to do, including in the largest market town of Tavistock. Other highlights include Yelverton, Okehampton and North Tawton. For more venues in the area, check out devon.gov.uk/registration-service/venues GLEBE BARN WEDDINGS, HOLSWORTHY, EX22 7EW https://glebehousecottages.co.uk www.instagram.com/glebehousecottages ASHRIDGE GREAT BARN, NORTH TAWTON, EX20 2DH https://ashridgegreatbarn.co.uk www.instagram.com/ashridgegreatbarn THE BEDFORD HOTEL, TAVISTOCK, PL19 8BB https://bedford-hotel.co.uk instagram.com/bedford_hotel_tavistock TWO BRIDGES HOTEL, DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK, PL20 6SW https://twobridges.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/ two_bridges_hotel THE BARN AT HIGHER BEARDON, OKEHAMPTON, EX20 4AL higherbeardon.co.uk instagram.com/thebarnathigherbeardon WONWOOD BARTON, TAVISTOCK, PL19 8SE wonwoodbarton.com instagram.com/wonwoodbarton TAVISTOCK TOWN HALL, PL19 0AU tavistock.gov.uk/council-services/tavistocktown-hall facebook.com/TavistockTownCouncil GREAT TORRINGTON TOWN HALL, EX38 8HN greattorrington-townhall.org facebook.com/gttownhal THE HORN OF PLENTY, TAVISTOCK, PL19 8JD thehornofplenty.co.uk instagram.com/the_hornofplenty GLEBE BARN WEDDINGS IN HOLSWORTHY ASHRIDGE GREAT BARN ASHRIDGE GREAT BARN 14
Book for 2026 now. Ceremony License - Yes. Accommodation onsite available. Now able to offer - Weekend Weddings, Micro Weddings and Elopement Weddings. Please contact us for more information and availability. Contact 07791 978 628 www.deerfarmtipiweddings.co.uk CREAT ING UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES
A secret elopement Carswell Cove provided the intimate backdrop for Jenn and Toms’s intimate ceremony Images courtesy of Photos by Hash Jenn and Tom Middleton married on 02/09/2024 in an intimate ceremony at Carswell Cove (after attending the register office at Quay House in Kingsbridge to legally tie the knot). 16
Jenn and Tom met through Tom’s work and Jenn’s hobby. “To successfully maintain a saltwater reef tank, I’d visit my local aquatic centre every week with a sample of water for testing, Jenn tells us. “Tom works in the marine department so had the task of trying to advise me as an enthusiastic beginner! I mostly ignored his advice but he was always polite. This continued for three years until our stars aligned and everything in my life changed - including the success of my saltwater fish tank!” Tom proposed one afternoon while the couple were sitting on the sofa. “Tom purposefully crawled over to my side and rested his head on my lap before popping the question,” Jenn tells us. “It was so casual that, at first, I wasn’t sure if he was serious. It was completely unexpected and unplanned. It makes me happy to know that Tom doesn’t feel pressured into being something he isn’t. He’s very introverted and doesn’t like fuss and I wouldn’t have wanted him to have worried about a big proposal. I love that it was unplanned. Tom had decided he wanted to spend the rest of his life with me as his wife and that, to him, felt like the perfect moment to ask.” SETTING THE SCENE The couple found their perfect wedding day location quickly. “Devon is where we enjoyed our first holiday together quite early into our relationship and we both agree that it’s where we developed a deeper love for each other,” Jenn tells us. “It was also the place where Tom spent most of his summers as a child so when I unknowingly booked our surprise trip away in a place that was so familiar to him, it seemed like fate.” Jenn and Tom’s nuptials were top secret. “We didn’t tell anybody that we were getting married,” Jenn tells us. “We had no phone signal on the beach so we gave our photographer, Hash, the contact number for our loved ones 17 REAL WEDDINGS
and he set up a WhatsApp group to which he shared a couple of our wedding photos with the caption ‘this just happened’ – everyone was over the moon that we did it in our own way.” Jenn and Tom legally married at Quay House in Kingsbridge first. “Our witnesses were unknown to us but they were grateful to be asked,” Jenn says. “Lunch consisted of sizzling king prawns and garlic muscles served in a novelty bucket at one of our favourite spots to eat, Beach House on South Milton Beach. We pre-booked our table as it’s always very busy but we didn’t reveal the occasion. We changed from our wedding attire into shorts and T-shirts in the car park and sat amongst the other diners who were blissfully unaware. The only subtle giveaway was my novelty sunglasses that said ‘Just Married’!” The couple then headed to Carswell Cove, the private beach location where they planned to have a ceremony at sunset and then spend the next few days on their honeymoon. “Carswell Cove is completely isolated and invisible from the coast path above. It has a small pebble beach and a unique little cottage built into the cliff with a wood-fired hot tub set against the most amazing views of the stunning South Devon coastline,” Jenn tells us. “We were blown away by the scenery and its remote location. It was an exciting moment for us both when we first arrived because we realised it was everything we had hoped for. We even had a surprise visit from a lone seal shortly after we’d arrived.” The couple didn’t want the constraints of a timed schedule so as the sun was starting to set, Jenn got into her wedding dress and her and Tom headed down to the shore to begin their ceremony which was delivered beautifully by the celebrant Louise Gather. “We didn’t give our celebrant any specifics so the wording of our ceremony and a reading which Louise chose for us was a complete surprise but it couldn’t have been more perfect,” Jenn tells us. “We then popped open a bottle of champagne and Tom carried me off into the sea which was freezing and very choppy - luckily he didn’t drop me although I still ended up drenched.” Jenn wore a two-piece design by the British designer Kate Beaumont. “I work in the wedding industry and obsess over my client’s wedding dress choices every day but there was never any question over who I’d go to for my dress,” she tells us. “I almost didn’t want to go into the sea wearing it but I’m so glad I did in the end. I wore the lace top with trousers to the register office in the morning, then wore the lace top over my silk slip dress on the beach. When I ventured into the sea, I was able to remove the top so that part of it is still pristine, unlike the dress!” Jenn teamed her dress with a pair of delicate freshwater pearl earrings by the British bridal jewellery designer Debbie Carlisle. “Our wedding rings were made by my friend Lois Cora whom I tried to fix Tom up with before we became a couple!” Jenn tells us. “She happens to be a jewellery designer and made our rings as a surprise. Tom had no idea as the rings were presented to us by our celebrant as having been made by ‘the one who got away’ - it was a funny moment and I love the sentiment.” The couple had a crab bucket and bride and groom rubber ducks to decorate their elopement celebration. “We found the metal crab bucket at Ashby’s of Salcombe. It made a good ice bucket for our champagne and it continues to get plenty of use as crabbing is our favourite thing to do on holiday.” The couple also had locally grown wildflowers which they picked up from Ben’s Farm shop in Totnes. Jenn and Tom’s wedding day was followed by a few days of relaxing in their beach hut in Carswell Cove where they enjoyed swimming, beach combing, reading, barbecues and the hot tub. “Tom made full use of his wedding gift from me - a set of binoculars for a spot of whale watching from our hammocks,” Jenn tells us. “It was pure bliss and we were sad to leave.” 18
THE DREAM TEAM Accommodation the evening before, Little Northside, Devon, airbnb.co.uk | Register office, Quay House, Kingsbridge, Devon, kingsbridge.gov.uk/council | Beach Venue, Carswell Cove, carswellholidays.com/the-beach-hut | Photographer, Photos by Hash, photosbyhash.com | Celebrant, Kickass Gatherings, kickassgatherings.com | Lunch, Beach House, beachhousedevon.com | Dress, Kate Beaumont, kate-beaumont.co.uk | Earrings, Debbie Carlisle, debbiecarlisle.com | Wedding rings, Lois Cora, instagram.com/loiscora_ | Flowers, barbecue and beers, Ben’s Farm Shop, bensfarmshop.co.uk | Crab bucket, Ashby’s of Devon, ashbysonline.co.uk | Honeymoon, Carswell Holidays, carswellholidays.com/the-beach-hut | Groom’s attire, Reef Knots, Salcombe, reefknots.com Top tip: “Don’t waste precious time and energy worrying about keeping your dress clean. Be prepared for it to be trashed and if it survives, it’s a bonus. My silk wedding dress is still covered in sand but I have no intentions of getting it dry cleaned - the stains on my dress tell a story.” - Jenn and Tom REAL WEDDINGS 19
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DAY Annie and Rajah’s special day at Cornish venue Trevenna was decorated with a white and green theme Images courtesy of Laura Buffery Photography Annie and Rajah Doore married on the 21st of October 2024 at Trevenna in Liskeard, Cornwall. Annie and Rajah became engaged on their fifth anniversary which happened to be bonfire night, “Rajah surprised me after a meal in Salumi Bar & Eatery,” Annie tells us. “We drove to Queen Anne’s Battery where he hired a yacht and watched the fireworks from the water at Plymouth Hoe. He had some stressful moments leading up to this with cancellations due to the weather which I was oblivious to and he hid it well. We were on the only boat that was out and the weather held out for us - it was magical.” Here, Annie tells us about their big day at Trevenna decorated with an elegant white and green theme. A dream 21 REAL WEDDINGS
We had a spectacular floral hoop as our ceremony backdrop that was put together by Rajah, his father and best man the evening before. We had plenty of fresh flowers in a chic white and green combination provided by Jamelias Flowers which were incredible! We had a fun wedding newspaper which was a great way to showcase our wedding and love story. The grounds at Trevenna and the fact we had exclusive hire of the venue allowed us to have the most amazing wedding photographs taken. We loved getting married at Trevenna with our family staying with us on-site. 22
Along with our chosen colour palette, we also had a nod to cars as part of our wedding theme. My ‘Bride’ balloons were fun! I made our delicious three-tier cake. The sweetie jars went down a treat with our guests! The interior of Trevenna looked so beautiful - the lighting in the evening was so romantic. We gifted potted succulents for our favours which went down well with our guests. The pots were decorated with green ribbon to tie in with our colour theme, stickers saying ‘Let Love Grow’ and our newly married name and wedding date. We named our tables after race tracks to tie in with our wedding theme. The food tasted fantastic! Our wedding transport was two of Rajah’s cars, a yellow Honda S2000 and one that his granddad built - a 1935 Ford pickup truck. 23 REAL WEDDINGS
Jodie Mark Wedding & Events Pianist played during the wonderful reception. THE DREAM TEAM Venue, catering and accommodation, Trevenna, trevenna.co.uk | Photography, Laura Buffery Photography, laurabufferyphotography.co.uk | Wedding dress, Emily Bridalwear, emilybridalwear.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, JJ’s House, jjshouse.com | Hair, Simply Beautiful, weddinghairplymouth.co.uk | Make-up artist, Makeup Artistry by Ella Butler, facebook.com/makeupbyellabutler | Suits, Farley Menswear, 01822 613 559 | Flowers, Jamelias Flowers, jameliasflowers.com | Bride’s wedding ring, The Diamond Store, thediamondstore.co.uk | Groom’s wedding ring, Forge & Lumber, forgeandlumber.com | String quartet, The Cornish Riviera String Quartet, thecornishrivierastringquartet.co.uk | Pianist, Jodie Mark Wedding & Events Pianist, jodiemarkpianist.co.uk | Live band, The Nashville Heat, thenashvilleheat.co.uk | Bouncy castle, Big Bounce Bouncy Castles, bigbouncebouncycastles.co.uk We loved our sparklers enjoyed outside with everyone at the end of the evening which was a nod to our bonfire night anniversary. We entertained our guests with ‘Ringo’ as I went to a Bingo Lingo event as one of the activities on my hen weekend which I loved. We came up with our bingo calls and music relating to weddings and us personally as a couple which was a huge hit with our guests. This was followed by live music from The Nashville Heat who were fantastic! The Cornish Riviera String Quartet performed for us during our ceremony and sounded great. I loved wearing my lace wedding dress which suited the venue. Rajah looked handsome in his black velvet jacket. My timeless white and green bridal bouquet looked so elegant. Rajah’s buttonhole complimented my wedding dress. My wedding ring was from The Diamond Store and Rajah’s was from Forge & Lumber. We had elegant floating candles that added to the ambience. Our bridesmaids’ dresses were in a stunning shade of green to tie in with our theme. I accessorized my dress with a pearl hair comb and a veil. 24
info Wed Priv Fest Picture walking down the aisle to your favourite song, played live just for you — or sipping fizz while beautiful music drifts through the air. Weddings Private Functions Festivals Let us bring the music! Extensive playlist - music tailored to your taste. Over 20 years, performing music for weddings. thecornishrivierastringquartet.co.uk 07989 209145 Are you planning your wedding in Cornwall or the surrounding counties? Award winning, fully qualified independent floral designer. Ready to create all your floral needs! 07809 298 411 jameliasflowersuk@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/JameliasFlowers www.jameliasflowers.com Jamelias Flowers
WWW.FREEFORMIMAGES.CO.UK 07846926029 Capturing timeless images to enjoy again and again samanthalouisephotography@aol.com www.facebook.com/samanthalouiisephotography www.samanthlouisephotography.co.uk We have a range of stunning options to suit weddings of all sizes, from our 800-year-old Spanish Barn and our atmospheric medieval Undercrofts, to our elegant ballroom or unique Palm House. Torre Abbey, Torquay, TQ2 5JE 01803 293593 torre-abbey.org.uk Image © Rock Rose Photography
This shoot, inspired by the iconic American state, enjoys the backdrop of North Devon’s newest outdoor wedding venue HARTA Retreat, home to a converted barn and luxurious glamping tipis surrounded by apple blossoms and wildflower meadows. A prairie-based palette of dusty pink, faded lilac, teal accents and a shimmer of gold complete the laid-back look Images courtesy of Freeformimages Photography Tennessee WHISKEY kisses 27 STYLED SHOOT
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THE DREAM TEAM Photography, Freeformimages Photography, freeformimages.co.uk | Venue, HARTA Retreat, harta-retreat.co.uk | Styling and coordination, best.day.ever, bestdayeverdevon.co.uk | Flowers, Howie & the Flowers, howieandtheflowers.co.uk | Celebrant, Celebrant Sue-ByYourSide, sue-byyourside.co.uk | Cake, Jax’s Cakes ‘N’ Bakes, jaxscakesnbakes.com | Dress and suit, Always and Forever Bridal & Menswear, devonbridal.co.uk | Jewellery, Wanderlust Life, wanderlustlife.co.uk | Rings, James Bishop Jewellery, bishopjewellery.co.uk | Hat, Mint Velvet, mintvelvet.com | Hair, Rachel Irving, instagram.com/rachellirving77 | Make-up, Isabelle Grace Make up Artist, isabellegracemakeup.com | Models, Connor and Jessica, instagram.com/connor_and_jessica | Horse, Star 29 STYLED SHOOT
Claire J. Wallace - The Cordon Bleu Diploma T: (01548) 560191 M: 07811 422612 E: info@claires-kitchen.co.uk www.claires-kitchen.co.uk @ClairesKit salcombe_claire Authentic charcoal BBQ and log spit roasts. High standards that will exceed your expectations. Finest food ‘tastefully’ presented. Helpful preparation & Efficient Management. Creative Event Catering S a l c o m b e weddings - parties - corporate Southwest BBQ Specialist www.thesmokinbbq.co.uk
Tasty wedding cake fillings and frostings A FLAVOUR FOR ALL SEASONS Spring Blueberry Peaches and cream Orange Banana Ginger Dubai chocolate Images courtesy of www.unsplash.com Long gone are the days of a traditional fruit cake or a Victoria sponge being the only options for a wedding cake. Now, many delicious and creative flavours are on the menu that will make your mouth water, whatever the time of year you're getting hitched. Summer Lemon curd Raspberry and rhubarb Strawberry meringue Elderflower Pineapple and coconut Passionfruit and mango Cherry Key lime pie CAKES AND SWEET TREATS 31
Autumn Salted caramel Peanut butter (topped with Reese’s chocolate) Pistachio Coffee and walnut Maple syrup Honey and lemon Carrot cake Images courtesy of www.unsplash.com Winter Mint chocolate Chocolate orange Red velvet Sticky toffee Marshmallow-topped Toffee apple Wedding cake of cheese 32
A work of art Pick a wow-factor wedding cake design in your chosen flavour. Multiple tall tiers Semi-naked cake Macaron tower French croquembouche tower Pavlova Fruit-filled flan Rainbow-coloured layer cake A heart-shaped single tier Lambeth-style wedding cake A fashion-inspired cake – why not theme it on your dress? Doughnut tower Cheesecake Fairy cakes Decorative details Flora and fauna Single stem flowers Pressed flowers Fun cake toppers Ribbon details Sugar flowers Geometric prints Monogram initials Metallic touches Romantic ruffles Pretty piping Vintage-inspired Art Deco touches Motifs to reflect your theme Dessert table treats Guests will love these alternatives to the traditional cake. Cake pops and popsicles Muffins Cupcakes Customised cookies Yum yums Churros Croissants and petite fruit-topped pastries Retro treats making a comeback Mini Battenbergs Fondant fancies Party rings Iced gems BonBons and other traditional sweets Fun colours to consider Pastels Ombre Barbie-inspired pink Glittery tiers CAKES AND SWEET TREATS 33
01822 611 121 25 Plymouth Road Tavistock Plymouth PL19 8AU www.abbeymeaddentalpractice.co.uk MINIMALLY INVASIVE, MAXIMUM EFFECT Rediscove beautifu new yo Sara Price Celebrant Highly Commended 2024 South West Wedding Awards sarapricecelebrant 01209 831430 | 07864 511225 sarapricecelebrant@gmail.com www.sarapricecelebrant.co.uk www.linkedin.com/in/sara-price-celebrant-9759b021b Heartfelt celebr tions bursting wi personality F e adventurers, e eco-minded, e country ide go-ge ers Recognised across the West Country for cra�ting meaningful, heartfelt weddings that are bursting with personality, our team are passionate about curating an unforgettable occasion against some of the region’s most charming backdrops and landscapes. We’ll plan an occasion that re�lects your love story in every way, down to even the smallest detail. Led by Gemma and our tight-knit team, we’ve got over 20 years of expertise under our belts, along with unwavering support, endless advice and a whole dollop of passion. Whether it’s On-the-Day Coordination or managing your alfresco celebration, the gang are here to bring your big day to life. WWW.WESTCOUNTRYWEDDINGPLANNER.CO.UK The Wedding Planning Team 07825209691 westcountryweddingplanner @wearewestcountryweddingplanner Gi�tlist o�fer Get £50 Prezola Credit to spend on gi�ts when you buy £200 worth of products using this link. https://prezola.com/?tap_a=29179-2efafd&tap_s=3616546-931e6e Images: Jo cunningham photography, Blue sage films, @simonandkianaphoto So you have started planning your wedding and have already been captivated by the alluring images on Pinterest, in bridal magazines, wedding blogs and Instagram! We have a range of bespoke napkins, table runners, luxury full length table cloths in a variety of beautiful colours for hire. As well as props, table centrepieces, charger plates and chair sashes. Available with set up and styling or as a DIY option. Get in touch to book your date www.boldbeautifulweddings.com boldandbeautifulweddings Photography courtesy of Rockrose Photography
Eco-friendly ways to make your wedding fabulous A SUSTAINABLE DAY Images courtesy of www.unsplash,com THE VENUE Choosing a planet-friendly wedding venue where fun meets sustainability is getting easier, with plenty of conscious celebration options in Devon and Cornwall to choose from. Look for Certified B Corporations which means the business meets the high standards of verified social and environmental performance and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. THE FLOWER VARIETIES When choosing big-day blooms that are kind to the environment, opt for locally grown and seasonal varieties that haven’t been flown in from another country. Wildflowers are ideal because they’re picked from grounds where pollinators thrive. If you have enough time before your wedding, consider planting your own flowers to reap the rewards in your bouquets and buttonholes. THE FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS The sky’s the limit for fabulous W-day flowers, whether it’s the ceremony backdrop, reception table centrepieces or statement flower clouds. Topiary trees (and other potted tree varieties) look fantastic framing the aisle and can be re-purposed at the entrance of the wedding breakfast that’s not only a sustainable idea but a purse-friendly one too. When it comes to the bouquets for the bridal party, pick seasonal blooms that can be placed in pre-loved mix-and-match vases and jars after the ceremony and placed on the tables – they will make pretty and sentimental centrepieces. On that note, why not place single-stem flowers in small vases and dot these along the tables – sometimes one bloom makes an impact. SUSTAINABILITY 35
Images courtesy of www.unsplash,com THE FAVOURS Why not take cuttings from house plants and repot them for your guests to take home? They’ll look great decorating the tables and act as a wonderful reminder of your wedding day. Alternatively, gift guests packets of seeds that can be planted and bloom each year. Remember if you’re using confetti buy the biodegradable dried petal variety. THE GIFTS Say thanks to your loved ones with a rose bush, hydrangea or other sizeable plant which can be placed in the ground and thrive each year. It’s a great way for guests to remember your wedding rather than giving them a bunch of cut flowers that will die within a couple of weeks. THE CATERING Feed guests a delicious green menu where possible, with colourful sharing platters having an emphasis on vegetarian or even vegan choices. For meat lovers, a barbecue during the summer months where the food is cooked to order minimises waste and during the winter months, consult with your chosen venue about creating a menu that focuses on using local seasonal produce. Desserts can be served small to also avoid waste. THE CAKE Your chosen wedding cake designer can advise on picking the most tasty, planet-friendly option using organic produce purchased from local and sustainable outlets. Fresh fruit makes a colourful (and delicious) topping, alongside flowers that are picked nearby – natural decorations make the best choice, meaning nothing goes to landfill after the big day. The packaging can include biodegradable food cartons for guests to take the cake home if they’re too full to enjoy it on the day. Consider serving the wedding cake as dessert to avoid much food wastage. THE TABLEWARE Hire your tableware through a local company or visit nearby boot fairs, charity shops and even eBay for pre-loved glasses, crockery, place settings and props. Limit using single-use plastic items. THE STATIONERY You can have fun with sustainable stationery! Pick plantable paper varieties, or paper that’s made from recycled materials and is biodegradable. Textured invitations handmade from fabric swatches, ribbons and other pieces of material you might have collected or sourced will make a great first impression on guests. Alternatively, sending e-invites and digital save-the-date cards is a great way to help save the planet. THE PROPS For styling your venue, pick wooden pieces made using FS-certified materials from responsibly managed forests. DIY enthusiasts can hand-create items themselves using preloved wood and paint they may already have. If you don’t want to attempt this yourself then ask the team at your chosen venue whether they have a prop cupboard that you could borrow items from, or pay a professional local venue styling company or wedding planner who offers a hire service. THE TRANSPORT Choose a venue where both the ceremony and reception can take place, and one that offers guest accommodation to minimise the transportation needed. For guests staying at local hotels, arrange a double-decker bus or coach to take them back to where they’re staying. Encourage loved ones to group together and book an Airbnb. Get to the ceremony on time yourselves by walking – why not arrange a walking procession with your guests? A bicycle; a horse-drawn carriage; a revamped classic car or boat hire (if your wedding venue is near the water) are other sustainable transport choices and if you are thinking of hiring a wedding car then choose an electric or a hybrid vehicle. THE ENTERTAINMENT Choose local bands, musicians and other performers and research their business to ensure they make ethical choices. 36
THE WEDDING DRESS Hunt for a vintage or pre-loved gown (or separates) that already has a story to tell. You can go one step further and sell it after your big day, or have it altered, for example maybe shortened, so that you can wear it again. If you’ve got your heart set on a new wedding dress then purchase it from a designer who uses sustainable materials and who chooses a mindful supply chain. If you want to keep hold of your dress but doubt you’ll wear it again then create a DIY frame from pieces of re-purposed wood that can be painted to match your home and display it there. THE JEWELLERY Consider wearing borrowed or inherited jewellery on the big day which will not only have sentimental value but will put a charming older item to good use and keep memories of a loved one who might have passed it down to you close. Items can include engagement and wedding bands for both brides and grooms, cufflinks, watches, bracelets, earrings and necklaces. A diamond or other pretty semi-precious stone could also be re-set creating a more contemporary piece if a modern take on the vintage style is more suited to your taste. If you want to purchase new pieces then make sure any diamonds are from conflict-free countries and any other stones and materials have been ethically sourced. THE SUIT Grooms and groomsmen should consider hiring their suits and maybe teaming them with shirts that they already own. The accessories including ties or bowties, pocket handkerchiefs, waistcoats and even vibrant-coloured socks can then be purchased so that everyone looks in unison. THE BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Bridesmaids could wear their own dresses in a chosen colour theme, and accessorize them with matching shoes, bags, belts and other finishing touches to keep everything matching. Alternatively, bridesmaids’ dresses can be purchased from companies who consider the planet when making their garments. THE HAIR AND MAKE-UP ARTIST Ensure they follow a waste-free process and use vegan-approved or animal-friendly vegan products that are kind not only to the skin but also to the environment. Some will even make their kit items and use plasticfree make-up brushes. THE HONEYMOON Lower your carbon footprint and honeymoon closer to home on a staycation in one of the stunning areas in Devon or Cornwall. Whether you choose a three-night mini-moon or a one or two-week stay in the region, there’s plenty to see and do on foot, by bike and by using public transport if you don’t want to hire a car. Images courtesy of www.unsplash,com SUSTAINABILITY 37
www.yourdevoncornwall.weddingRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=