Your Herts and Beds Wedding - December/January 2025/2026 (Issue 113)

All aboard for christmas The Ivy Collection is delighted to unveil its 2025 festive campaign, The Ivy Midnight Express, a nationwide celebration designed to capture the magic of Christmas and transport guests to the ultimate festive paradise through delicious food and drink, evocative décor and exquisite dining experiences. The festive menus pull from traditional festive favourites, Ivy classics and innovative flavours for the ultimate date night. Inspired by the tale of Arthur, a young boy whose Christmas Eve adventure helps Santa back on track with the help of his beloved train set, The Ivy Midnight Express brings the nostalgia of festive storytelling into The Ivy’s brasseries, with installations that combine twinkling lights, vintage charm and whimsical train motifs. The Ivy Collection has worked with artist and scenographer, Sophie Neil, to bring the magical story to life with illustrations on the festive menus, as well as across various retail products, including Christmas crackers, Christmas cards and more. Discover your nearest location and book now: ivycollection.com 60 YEARS OF STYLE This year marks the 60th anniversary of renowned bespoke tailor Geoff Souster, owner of Souster & Hicks. At 15, Geoff left school and stepped into a bespoke tailor’s shop, discovering not just a job but a lifelong craft. Six decades on, he has witnessed the evolution of the tailoring world, dressed countless well-known figures and seen trends come and go. To mark the anniversary, the team will celebrate with exciting announcements and campaigns coming soon – watch this space! Tailoring at Souster & Hicks is more than a tradition; it’s a legacy. The family-run business champions traditional craftsmanship, exceptional materials and unbeatable comfort. Their bespoke suits, jackets, shirts and jeans are crafted for both men and women, allowing every customer to express their personal style with confidence and authenticity. Discover the company: sousterandhicks.com THE ULTIMATE ZEN-DO Hen dos have had a glow-up! Today’s brides-to-be are swapping late nights for late check-outs, spa days, scenic walks, nourishing food and a little fizz. Enter the Zen-Do! St Albans is the perfect backdrop, with historic charm, green spaces, wellness experiences and great dining. The team at Enjoy St Albans has shared the ultimate inspiration for this setting. At the heart of it is Sopwell House, a luxury Georgian hotel with the award-winning Club at Cottonmill Spa. Think hydrotherapy pools, thermal suites, serene relaxation areas and relaxing treatments and seasonal packages. For fresh air, stroll the Alban Way, a 6.3-mile former railway leading to Verulamium Park with lakes, Roman ruins and cosy coffee stops. Don’t miss St Albans Cathedral, home to England’s longest nave and views toward London. The city centre blends medieval charm with modern shopping. Visit the Charter Market on Wednesdays or Saturdays, and find mindful gifts at Olivia Rose Fairtrade. Dining options range from fine dining at Lussmanns to relaxed evenings at Hazels, a stylish wine and music bar. For activities, try a Thai cookery class, make bespoke scents at The Perfume Studio or move your body with Reformer Pilates at Transformation Pilates or yoga at The Yoga Hall. Wellness doesn’t mean missing out, it means celebrating well. Discover more: enjoystalbans.com and sopwellhouse.co.uk bgdroneshots.co.uk bradgommonphotography.co.uk 8

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