TAKE A SLICE Big-day bake inspiration WIN! A luxury mini-moon in a castle hotel SOMERSET GLOS WILTS WEDDING & , DEC 25/JAN 26 £3.55 THE BOUQUET RESIDENCE Floral know-how Hair & HOROSCOPES What’s your style?
EXQUISITE.PERSONAL.TIMELESS. 2-4 THE MALL, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 4DR 39 MARKET PL, CIRENCESTER, GL7 2NX 01179 733178. 01285 655754 TITCOMBEBESPOKE.CO.UK
We finally made it people! Here we are in the runup to Christmas. Didn’t that year go by in a flash? Before we turn the diary pages over into 2026, let’s take a moment to look back at what weddings in 2025 brought our way. This year, bold and vibrant colour palettes lead the way with jewel-toned hues and pops of hot pink or orange. Couples bonded with their florists, embracing lush, romantic florals filling their venues with life and a quiet luxury. Meanwhile, the serpentine reception table layout really took off, becoming one of the most frequently requested. All the while, personality continues to shine through with couples continually finding new ways to tell their story and express themselves. We can’t wait to see what 2026 has in store! Hands up who can say they’re now mere months from W-day! As ever, enjoy and keeeep planning! Kelly Andrews, editor A fond look back Kelly x Your Somerset, Glos & Wilts 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 Somerset, Glos & Wilts Wedding is published six times a year. ISSN 1755-4756 DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding EDITORIAL Deputy Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | 01376 535 611 kelly.andrews@county.wedding ADVERTISING Account Manager Tony Smith | 01376 538 562 tony.smith@county.wedding On the cover This issue’s super-fun cover was captured by Charlotte Sams Photography (charlottesams.com) at The Old Vicarage Hotel in Bridgwater (theoldvicaragebridgwater.com). Check out the full shoot from page 37. Behind the scenes Wedding dog chaperone LillieMay Mills briefs Zeus on the day’s modelling tasks. charlottesams.com @CountyWeddingMagazines @countyweddingmagazines @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com We go behind the scenes of our cover shoot at The Old Vicarage Hotel Archie eyes up the mouthwatering dessert table! “Oh please, I’ve been so good!” Hair stylist Amy Marie Roman hard at work creating a bridesmaid’s look. charlottesams.com charlottesams.com EDITOR’S LETTER 3
A LUXURY MINI-MOON IN CASTLE HOTEL Regulars 3 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Kelly 7 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the region 95 COMPETITION Win a luxury mini-moon in castle hotel In this issue... DECEMBER 2025/JANUARY 2026 Venues 13 SPOTLIGHT ON... GLOUCESTERSHIRE Tie the knot in a local hotspot Features 31 IN LOVE WITH AUSTEN Revel in the style and elegance of the Regency era with this Austen-inspired local shoot 37 IN AN ENGLISH COUNTRY GARDEN This local shoot is the epitome of romance 42 LET THEM EAT CAKE! If you’re not sure where to start with your big-day bake or indeed whether you even want one, read on for some food for thought 47 THE BOUQUET RESIDENCE Select the perfect in-season British blooms for your bridal bouquet 52 THE LEGAL BIT It’s not all dress finding and cake tasting, understand the legal side of marriage so you’re not caught off guard 54 ROBOTIC WEDDING SPEECHES? With the rise of AI, we’ve lost the heart that goes into wedding speeches. Here’s how you can get it back 86 SIGNATURE SCENTS We’ve gathered together our favourite fragrances and newest launches for brides and grooms to help you both find your wedding day signature scent Win! 95 37 24 86 camillacreativephotography.com charlottesams.com 4
Real weddings 18 HOME SWEET HOME Lucy and Russ celebrated their nuptials at the bride’s family home, North Cadbury Court 24 SUNSHINE OF MY LIFE Helen and Tim said “I do” at Matara in July 2025 and styled their day in a sunny yellow palette Honeymoons 90 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 92 FALLING IN LOVE WITH ONTARIO Natural beauty and man-made magnificence in Canada’s largest province 96 WHISPERS OF LOVE We uncover the charm and calm of Marylebone Village for a cosy memorable mini-moon Fashion & Beauty 56 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 57 SET TO SPARKLE These dainty details and finishing touches are perfect for a winter wedding 58 THE STAR OF THE SHOW These aisle-approved trends will take centre stage at 2026 weddings 72 BEAUTY BUZZ The latest launches and must-haves 75 HAIR AND HOROSCOPES Celebrity hair stylist and founder of Melissa Salons, Melissa Timperley shares her thoughts on the hair styles that suit you best according to your horoscope 79 NO EQUIPMENT, NO PROBLEM Looking to build strength, improve posture, and feel more energised before W-day without leaving home? Pilates could be the answer 80 BEST FOOT FORWARD Step into your wedding celebrations with a Margaret Dabbs London Medical Pedicure, a treat for your feet 82 GROW, BABY, GROW! How to reverse the signs of thinning hair 31 47 42 Grooms 67 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 68 ROMANCE-TUX Creating a showstopping look this winter in a black and white tux 70 SECOND LIFE Give your special day attire more than one life unsplash.com@kristycruzm_ unsplash.com@dreamcatchlight 18 simonbiffenphotography.co.uk pippavolansphotography.co.uk. 57 CONTENTS 5
The Perfect Wedding Venue! Batch Country House, Lympsham, Nr. Weston-super-Mare, Somerset BS24 0EX | Tel: 01934 750371| Email: info@batchcountryhouse.co.uk www.batchcountryhouse.co.uk The Batch Country House specialises in weddings due to its beautiful location. The landscaped gardens offer the perfect backdrop to your photographs.
Somerset sparkles Somerset vineyard, Aldwick Estate, is preparing to pop the cork on its latest release of sparkling wine. Nestled at the foot of the Mendip Hills, the vineyard has been producing award-winning wines since 2013 and its newly released Somerset Cuvée looks set to continue that tradition. Crafted by renowned winemaker Steve Brooksbank using the traditional method, Somerset Cuvée is a delicate blend of Seyval Blanc and Pinot Noir grapes, all hand-tended and hand-picked by the Aldwick Estate team. The latest releasee comes at a time when English sparkling wines are enjoying global acclaim, with an English vintage recently crowned the best in the world by the International Wine Challenge. “Somerset Cuvée is an elegant, vibrant and sophisticated wine,” says Sandy Luck, managing director of Aldwick Estate. “It’s fresh yet indulgent, with a lasting finish – a true celebration wine.” Find out more at aldwickestate.co.uk A heritage icon British heritage icon Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa has become the inaugural property of Accor’s newest luxury collection brand, Emblems. This landmark moment for the brand sees the property celebrating intimate luxury, unique character, elevated design, and bespoke service. It will be joining the Heritage category honouring its glorious past while ushing in a new era of comtemporary relevance. Located just six miles from Bath, Lucknam Park boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, an award-winning wellness spa, a renowned equestrian centre, and 500 acres of landscaped parkland. Its 42 individually designed rooms and nine luxurious cottages make it a sought-after countryside escape. What’s more, it offers a big-day backdrop that beautifully sets the scene with spaces that flow effortlessly. Set your own vibe whether it be tranquillity, energy, or quiet intimacy – there’s somewhere for you here. Find out more at lucknampark.co.uk CUSTOMISE IN A CLICK Known for its handcrafted vintage-style booths, Booth Nineteen is taking personalisation to a new level with the launch of completely customisable photo booth interfaces. Rather than simply tailoring print templates, couples and event hosts can now have the entire on-screen experience designed around their own theme or brand. From bespoke welcome screens to fully branded user journeys, every detail can now reflect the event’s unique style. “We’re anything but generic,” says the team. “Our new interface design service lets clients truly make the booth their own – it’s like stepping into a photo experience built just for you.” Find out more at booth19.co.uk NEWS Nearlywed Catch up on the latest from around the region LOCAL NEWS 7
Flowery fun Somerset-based Bramble & Wild will be launching a new series of floral workshops in January 2026, including wreath dates for the early birds and several hand tied bouquet workshops. Also available will be collaborative workshops such as Seed Growing for Beginners in partnership with other local business who’ve been invited to co-host. There’s even a book signing or two lined up! To get creative in this gorgeous space, keep your eyes on the website for dates due to be live and available to book by the end of January. Newsletter subscribers will get early bird access, so now’s the time to subscribe! Subscribe and book via Bramble & Wild’s website at brambleandwild.com CELEBRATE IN CIRENCESTER The Kings Head, a Georgian-fronted, boutique pub with brasserie, rooms and event spaces, is an iconic, Grade II listed landmark dating from the 14th century centrally located on Cirencester’s historic Market Place. New owner and highly experienced hospitality company Brakspear, took over the former coaching inn in April 2025, and has just overseen the completion of a comprehensive refurbishment of all its public spaces, renovating sensitively to enhance the building’s many period details. The pub’s celebratory spaces include the elegant, lightfilled Lavender Hall, an opulent Georgian room with high ceilings, original wood panelling, sprung timber floors and glittering chandeliers. Or for a space with the wow factor, consider the pub’s Vaulted Cellar of Roman origin with exposed brickwork. Finally, The Wine Cellar, offers an intimate private dining room, perfect for a pre-nuptial get-together. The dedicated events team caters to all tastes and requirements with a range of delicious, set-price food and drink menus, from a traditional, sit-down banquet to buffets, cocktails and canapés or a less conventional celebration to suit any budget. All menus showcase local, sustainably sourced and seasonally relevant produce wherever possible. Also included are an in-house wedding planner and a free drinks and menu tasting session. Discover more at kingsheadcotswold.co.uk A FOND FAREWELL After 15 years of hosting fabulous weddings at Old Bridge, 2026 will be its last season. “It’s been an absolute privilege and joy to help our couples plan and achieve their perfect day and their feedback has confirmed that the personal touch, the exclusivity and bespoke nature of what we try to offer here has been deeply appreciated by couples and their family and friends,” owner John says. And what a range of themes the team has seen – ‘Harry Potter does Las Vegas!’ was particularly memorable for them. Festival themes have been very popular with street food and informality, children’s activities of all sorts, pig racing, several big tractors delivering brides, a Cinderella coach with two white horses, birds of prey, a piano on a bicycle, a cocktail bar in a hot-air balloon basket – the list is practically endless! So it is indeed with some sadness that weddings will draw it all to a close in September 2026. “To all our couples and everyone who has enjoyed events here at Old Bridge, very best wishes and thank you for the memories,” John concludes. 8
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Discover our Mansion House wedding package, perfect for smaller celebrations of up to 65 guests. Say your vows in our elegant lounges, followed by Champagne and canapés reception. Take the intimate Cloisters restaurant as your own for your wedding meal before celebrating in our Conservatory Bar. From £111 per person. Contact our team today to discuss your perfect day. INTIMATE WEDDINGS AT BAILBROOK HOUSE Eveleigh Avenue, London Road West, Bath Somerset BA1 7JD 01225 855100 | bailbrookhouse@handpicked.co.uk handpickedhotels.co.uk/bailbrookhouse Simon Biffen Photography BAILBROOK HOUSE HOTEL BATH, SOMERSET
With breathtaking views of the Avon Valley, this Grade II listed property offers the dream day setting just outside of Bath city centre As one of Bath’s two Grade II listed country house hotels, Bailbrook House has a rich history. Nestled within 20 acres of serene grounds and perched on a Bath hilltop, it’s just a short drive from the city centre making it the ideal escape for a romantic getaway or a day of indulgence with family away from the city’s hustle and bustle. The Hotel’s location affords it breathtaking views of the Avon Valley. These serene surroundings, combined with the peaceful atmosphere of this elegant country house make for a truly special experience. Soak it all in with a stroll around the grounds or look for the lovers’ bench, which you’ll find tucked away like a secret in the gardens. Bailbrook House offers a wide variety of wedding spaces for you to choose from. If you’re looking for your own selfcontained wedding venue, the Brunel Suite (120 guests) could be for you. With its own private foyer, bar and outside terrace, this suite can cover every aspect of the big day. This room has plenty of romantic ambience with its mirrored walls and a soft glow from the four sparkling chandeliers complementing its neutral decor. Located in the mansion house, Queen Charlotte (65 guests) is the largest of the venue’s three royal lounges. One wall features floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer views of the gardens and city beyond. Plus, the original fireplace and ornate chandelier give this room plenty of elegance and charm. Also located in the mansion house, Duke of Clarence (40 guests) is the second largest of the three royal lounges here. Similar to Queen Charlotte, it too boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, original fireplace and a stunning chandelier. Finally, Lansdown (90 guests) is large and stylishly contemporary. This versatile space lends itself to any layout you may have in mind. What’s more, its double doors open out onto the garden – ideal for post ceremony drinks. Cloisters is available for wedding receptions. Located in the historical mansion this is where the heritage of this country house hotel in Bath really comes into its own, with original archways made from traditional Bath stone. Cloisters is a unique private dining and events space, ideal for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. With its versatile layout, this elegant setting accommodates up to 70 guests for a seated banquet and 100 for a drinks reception. Bailbrook House generously offers its couples a free menu tasting. It’s also well worth keeping an eye out for seasonal offers for late date availability. Bailbrook House Hotel Bath beatacosgrovephotography.com FIND OUT MORE Eveleigh Avenue & London Road W, Bath BA1 7JD www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/bailbrookhouse 01225 855 100 11
Newly engaged? History will become the backdrop and The Bishop's Palace and its 14 acres of RHS partner gardens the setting for your unique wedding reception. E: weddings@bishopspalace.org.uk W: www.bishopspalace.org.uk/venue-hire/weddings The Bishop's Palace and Gardens, Wells We limit the number of wedding receptions held each year in this historic place so that you feel as special as our beautiful venue. Our Weddings Manager would love to help you to bring your ideas to life. Prices from: £4,900 Celebrate your nuptials amongst glorious gardens in the heart of the medieval city Steeped in history, The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens sits at the heart of the medieval city of Wells in Somerset, where you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of this stunning, 800-year-old building. The Bishop’s Palace boasts 14 acres of perfectly kept gardens, and there’s something magical about them. With the moat surrounding the Palace, offering the tranquil sounds of flowing water, the dramatic backdrop of Wells Cathedral, picturesque willow bridge and seasonal flowers and plants, this is a glorious space to gather with your loved ones. Later, you can take your seats for a memorable wedding breakfast in the atmospheric banqueting hall, which boasts a magnificent, vaulted ceiling and stained-glass windows. Lit with candles, the Undercroft provides the ideal intimate atmosphere for your special day. Seating 108 at maximum capacity along stunning bespoke wooden banqueting tables, with a further 52 guests accommodated for the evening, the space is versatile and offers a fabulous way to enjoy good food surrounded by friends and family. The team work closely with a local catering partner to ensure quality, locally sourced ingredients and an extremely high level of service. Following speeches and cake cutting, you can retire to the Portrait Gallery for coffee and cake. Relax and take time to enjoy a more informal time with your guests, while the team transform the Undercroft for the evening, whether you choose live music or a DJ. The space can accommodate 105 standing. A marquee reception, overlooking the ruins of The Great Hall, provides the most spectacular alternative celebration space. You’ll enjoy exclusive hire of the site, which includes The Palace building and RHS partner gardens. A marquee in the style of of your choice will be erected overlooking the majestic ruins of Bishop Burnell’s splendid dining and entertaining hall, built in the 1280s. Here, you can host 260 guests, and a bespoke quote will be provided on request. THE BISHOP’S PALACE AND GARDENS FIND OUT MORE 01749 988 111 bishopspalace.org.uk gemhicksphotography.com
Tie the knot in a local hotspot ABBEY HOME FARM Cirencester, GL7 5HF 01285 640 441 abbeyfarmweddings.co.uk THE BARN AT BERKELEY Berkeley, GL13 9EW 01453 512 920 | thebarnatberkeley.co.uk THE BARN AT UPCOTE Cheltenham, GL54 4BL 01242 890 332 | thebarnatupcote.co.uk THE BEAR OF RODBOROUGH Stroud, GL5 5DE 01453 878522 | cotswold-inns-hotels.co.uk BERKELEY CASTLE Berkeley, GL13 9BQ 01453 512 999 | berkeley-castle.com BLACKFRIARS PRIORY Ladybellegate Street, GL1 2HN 01452 396 384 gloucesterblackfriars.co.uk BURLEIGH COURT HOTEL Stroud, GL5 2PF 01453 883 804 burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk CALCOT AND SPA Tetbury, GL8 8YJ 01666 890 391 calcotcollection.co.uk/weddings CHARINGWORTH MANOR HOTEL Chipping Campden, GL55 6NS 01386 593 555 | hyllhotel.com CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL Cheltenham, GL50 1QA 01242 264 231 cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk CLEARWELL CASTLE Coleford, GL16 8LG 01594 832 320 | clearwell-castle.co.uk COTSWOLD HOUSE HOTEL CHIPPING CAMPDEN, GL55 6AN 01386 840 330 | cotswoldhouse.com COWLEY MANOR EXPERIMENTAL Cheltenham, GL53 9NL 01242 870900 cowleymanorexperimental.com CRIPPS BARN Cirencester, GL7 5BA 01285 721 900 crippsandco.com/cripps-barn DE VERE COTSWOLD WATER PARK HOTEL South Cerney, GL7 5FP 01285 864 000 | devere.co.uk CHELTENHAM CHASE HOTEL Brockworth, GL3 4PB 01452 519 988 | thecheltenhamchase.co.uk DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON CHELTENHAM Cheltenham, GL53 8EA 01242 222 021 | hilton.com EASTINGTON PARK Nr Stonehouse, GL10 3RY 07739 455 639 | eastingtonpark.co.uk EGYPT MILL HOTEL Nailsworth, GL6 8DE 01453 833 449 | egyptmill.com ELLENBOROUGH PARK Cheltenham, GL52 3NH 01242 225 660 | ellenboroughpark.com ELMORE COURT Elmore, GL2 3NT 01452 720 293 | elmorecourt.com FOREST BARNS Littledean, GL14 2TU 01594 827311 | forestbarnholidays.co.uk/ forestofdeanweddingvenue FOREST HILLS GOLF CLUB Coleford, GL16 7QD 01594 810 620 | foresthillsgolfclub.co.uk THE FROGMILL Cheltenham, GL54 4HT 01242 386 364 | thefrogmill.co.uk THE GEORGE ROOM Cheltenham, GL50 3EW 01452 425 060 gloucestershireregistrationservice.co.uk GLOUCESTER ROBINSWOOD HOTEL Gloucester, GL4 6EA 01452 874 831 gloucesterrobinswoodhotel.co.uk BLACKFRIARS PRIORY SPOTLIGHT ON GLOUCESTERSHIRE tomdurn-photography.co.uk LOCAL VENUES 13
THE GREAT TYTHE BARN Tetbury, GL8 8XA 01666 502 475 | gtb.co.uk THE GREENWAY HOTEL AND SPA Cheltenham, GL51 4UG 01242 862 352 thegreenwayhotelandspa.com THE HARE AND HOUNDS HOTEL Tetbury, GL8 8QL 01666 881 000 cotswold-inns-hotels.co.uk HATHERLEY MANOR HOTEL AND SPA Gloucester, GL2 9QA 01452 730 217 | hatherleymanor.com HATTON COURT HOTEL Gloucester, GL4 8DE 01452 617 412 | hatton-court.co.uk HERITAGE HOUSE Moreton-in-marsh, GL56 0YG 01608 731700 | daylesfordstays.com THE HILL Stroud, GL5 4ER 01453 764 771 | occasionsatthehill.co.uk HILLES HOUSE Stroud, GL6 6NW 01452 812212 | hilleshouse.co.uk HILTON PUCKRUP HALL HOTEL Tewkesbury, GL20 6EL 01684 296 200 | hilton.com HOTEL DU VIN CHELTENHAM Cheltenham, GL50 3AQ 01242 370 584 | hotelduvin.com HYDE HOUSE Cheltenham, GL54 1FA 01451 830 354 | hyde-house.uk INGLESIDE HOUSE Cirencester, GL7 1BN 01285 648 230 | inglesidehouse.co.uk IVY LODGE Cirencester, GL7 6LU 01285 708 200 | crippsandco.com KIFTSGATE COURT GARDENS Chipping Camden, GL55 6LN 01386 438 777 | kiftsgatecourt.com THE KINGS HEAD HOTEL Cirencester, GL7 2NR 01285 700 900 | kingsheadcotswold.co.uk KINGSCOTE BARN Tetbury, GL8 8YE 01453 861161 | kingscotebarn.co.uk LAPSTONE BARN Chipping Campden, GL55 6FF 01386 849 024 | lapstonebarn.co.uk LEONARDO HOTEL CHELTENHAM Cheltenham, GL51 0TS 01242 232 691 | leonardohotels.co.uk LLANTHONY SECUNDA PRIORY Gloucester, GL2 5FA 01452 563 499 | llanthonysecunda.org LORDS OF THE MANOR HOTEL Upper Slaughter, GL54 2JD 01451 820 243 | lordsofthemanor.com MALMAISON CHELTENHAM Cheltenham, GL50 3AS 01242 527 788 | malmaison.com MANOR BY THE LAKE Cheltenham, GL51 6PN 01242 245 071 | manorbythelake.co.uk MANOR HOUSE HOTEL Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 0LJ 01608 650 501 cotswold-inns-hotels.co.uk MATARA CENTRE Tetbury, GL8 8YA 01453 861 050 | matara.co.uk MELKSHAM COURT Dursley, GL11 6AR 07590 286288 | melkshamcourt.com PITTVILLE PUMP ROOMS 14
MERCURE GLOUCESTER BOWDEN HALL HOTEL Gloucester, GL4 8ED 01452 614 121 | mercuregloucester.co.uk MICKLETON HILLS FARM Chipping Campden, GL55 6LJ 01386 841 939 | mickletonhillsfarm.com MILTON END WEDDING BARN Arlingham, GL2 7JH 07500 939 455 miltonendweddings.co.uk NAAS COURT FARM Lydney, GL15 4ES naascourtfarm.com NO. 131 Cheltenham, GL50 1NW 01242 822939 | no131.com NO. 38 THE PARK Cheltenham, GL52 2AH 01242 394 014 | no38thepark.com NORTON GROUNDS Aston Sub Edge, GL55 6PY 01386 438 482 | nortongrounds.com OLD GORE BARN Cheltenham, GL54 4BZ 01285 708 200 | crippsandco.com OVER BARN Gloucester, GL2 8BD 01452 387 447 | overfarm.co.uk OWLPEN MANOR ESTATE Near Dursley, GL11 5BZ 01453 860 261 | owlpen.com PAINSWICK ROCOCO GARDEN Painswick, GL6 6TH 01452 813 204 | rococogarden.org.uk PAUNTLEY COURT Redmarley, GL19 3JA 01531 552 001 | pauntleycourt.com THE PERRYGROVE RAILWAY ADVENTURE Coleford, GL16 8QB 01386 852 626 | perrygrove.co.uk PITTVILLE PUMP ROOM Cheltenham, GL52 3JE 01242 387 440 | pittvillepumproom.org.uk POSTLIP HALL TITHE BARN Winchcombe, GL54 5AQ 01242 602 981 | postliphall.org.uk QUEENS HOTEL CHELTENHAM Cheltenham, GL50 1NN 01242 514 754 queenshotelcheltenham.co.uk RISING SUN HOTEL Cheltenham, GL52 3PX 01242 676 281 | greenekinginns.co.uk SEZINCOTE Moreton-in-marsh, GL56 9AW 01386 700 444 | sezincote.co.uk SHIRE HALL Gloucester, GL1 2TG 01452 425060 | gloucestershireregistrationservice.co.uk STONE BARN Cheltenham, GL54 3RF 01285 721 909 | crippsandco.com STONEHOUSE COURT HOTEL Stonehouse, GL10 3RA 01453 794950 | stonehousecourt.co.uk THE BARN AT BERKELEY mattebbage.com LOCAL VENUES 15
WILD THYME & HONEY STRATTON HOUSE HOTEL Cirencester, GL7 2LE 01285 651 761 | strattonhousehotel.com SUDELEY CASTLE AND GARDENS Cheltenham, GL54 5JD 01242 602 308 | sudeleycastle.co.uk TEMPLE GUITING MANOR AND BARNS Cheltenham, GL54 5RP 01451 850 577 | templeguitingmanor.co.uk TEWKESBURY PARK Tewkesbury, GL20 7DN 01684 272 312 | tewkesburypark.co.uk LOWER LODE INN Forthampton, GL19 4RE 01684 293 224 | lowerlodeinn.co.uk THE OAKS Cinderford, GL14 2AB 01594 822 113 | gloucestershireregistrationservice.co.uk THE OLD LODGE Stroud, GL6 9AQ 01453 832 047 | food-club.com THE OLD VICTORIAN SCHOOL Stroud, GL5 1DY 01452 425 060 gloucestershireregistrationservice.co.uk THE PAINSWICK Stroud, GL6 6YB 01666 890 391 | thepainswick.co.uk THE PIG IN THE COTSWOLDS Cirencester, GL7 5EE 01285 740 000 | thepighotel.com THE ROYAL AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY Cirencester, GL7 6JS 01285 652 531 | rau.ac.uk THE ROYAL GEORGE HOTEL Birdlip, GL4 8JH 01452 862 506 | greenekinginns.co.uk THE SLAUGHTERS COUNTRY INN Lower Slaughter, GL54 2HS 01451 822 143 | theslaughtersinn.co.uk THE SLAUGHTERS MANOR HOUSE Lower Slaughter, GL54 2HP 01451 820 456 | slaughtersmanor.co.uk THE SPEECH HOUSE HOTEL Coleford, GL16 7EL 01594 822 607 | thespeechhouse.co.uk THE SWAN HOTEL Bibury, GL7 5NW 01285 740 695 cotswold-inns-hotels.co.uk THREE WAYS HOUSE HOTEL Chipping Campden, GL55 6SB 01386 438 429 threewayshousehotel.com TWYNING PARK Twyning, GL20 6DG 01682 273 321 | twyningpark.com WATER’S EDGE AT EWEN Cirencester, GL7 6BY 01285 771 172 | watersedgeatewen.co.uk WESTONBIRT SCHOOL Tetbury, GL8 8QG 01666 881 338 | westonbirt.org WILD THYME AND HONEY Cirencester, GL7 5RS 01285 851 806 | wildthymeandhoney.co.uk 16
MATARA CENTRE nikkicooper.co.uk South Gloucestershire AZTEC HOTEL & SPA Bristol, BS32 4TS 01454 201 090 | aztechotelbristol.co.uk THE BARN AT THE WHITE Bristol, BS16 1RY 0117 957 0671 | whitehorsehambrook.com BERWICK LODGE Bristol, BS10 7TD 0117 958 1590 | berwicklodge.co.uk BEST WESTERN THE COMPASS INN Nr Badminton, GL9 1JB 01454 218 242 | bestwestern.co.uk BEST WESTERN BRISTOL NORTH THE GABLES HOTEL Falfield, GL12 8DL 01454 260 502 | bestwestern.co.uk THE BRISTOL GOLF CLUB Bristol, BS10 7TP 01454 620 000 | bristolgolfclub.co.uk CHIPPING SODBURY TOWN HALL Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6AD 01454 852 222 | chippingsodburytownhall.co.uk DE VERE TORTWORTH COURT Wotton Under Edge, GL12 8HH 01454 263 000 | devere.co.uk DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON BRISTOL NORTH Bristol, BS32 4JF 01454 201 144 | hilton.com EASTWOOD PARK Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 8DA 01454 260 207 | eastwoodpark.co.uk HAMSWELL HOUSE Bath, BA1 9DG 07710 727 773 | hamswellhouse.co.uk HOLIDAY INN BRISTOL FILTON Bristol, BS16 1QX 0870 400 9014 | ihg.com MERCURE BRISTOL NORTH THE GRANGE HOTEL Bristol, BS36 1RP 01454 777 333 | mercurebristol.co.uk OLD DOWN ESTATE Bristol, BS32 4PG 01454 414081 | olddownestate.co.uk POOLE COURT Yate, BS37 5PP 01454 866 506 | yatetowncouncil.gov.uk THORNBURY CASTLE HOTEL Thornbury, BS35 1HH 01454 281 182 | thornburycastle.co.uk THORNBURY GOLF & LODGE Bristol, BS35 3XL 01454 281 144 | thornburygc.co.uk VILLAGE HOTEL BRISTOL Bristol, BS34 6FG 0117 456 3434 | village-hotels.co.uk WINTERBOURNE MEDIEVAL BARN Bristol, BS36 1SE 0117 403 1536 | winterbournebarn.org.uk LOCAL VENUES 17
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HOME Home sweet Lucy and Russ celebrated their nuptials at the bride’s family home, North Cadbury Court Images courtesy of Simon Biffen Photography Russ proposed to Lucy five years after they met. He’d had a job interview that morning for a role in Saudi Arabia (which he got), and later that day he suggested to Lucy a walk up to Cadbury Castle with their black labrador, brought along as a distraction. He chose a spot with a view towards Lucy’s family home, North Cadbury Court, and popped the question. Having grown up at North Cadbury Court, Lucy has many happy memories of baking bread with her grandma and playing hide and seek with her cousins there. Russ knew it had always been her dream to get married there, and generations of her family had been wed at nearby St Michael’s Church, so no laborious venue search was needed. Having worked as a wedding coordinator for many years (a role she now occupies at North Cadbury Court), Lucy has seen many trends come and go, so she was keen to keep their theme traditional, classic and timeless. With the wedding set for May 2025, the couple decided to make the most of the wonderful British spring blooms available at the time. “Victoria at Wren & May completely understood my pastel vision and the flowers on the day were beyond my wildest dreams,” Lucy shares. The church flowers were repurposed for the wedding breakfast with spring meadow boxes surrounding the cake table. Russ’ mum kindly offered to embroider the napkins with the couple’s initials and wedding date, opting for white thread on white fabric for a subtle but classic detail. Since Lucy had worked with caterers Wild Fork West for many years, she fully trusted them to serve delicious food, and knew the team would look after their guests beautifully. What’s more, “As Russ works in the beef industry it was important that this featured in our wedding breakfast,” Lucy explains. The food and drink flowed throughout the day and the luxury of the venue is that there’s plenty for guests to do. Garden games kept everyone entertained during the drinks reception and the couple brought Kubb with them, a game they’d enjoyed playing together in the early days of their relationship. Shortly after their engagement, Lucy booked an appointment at Carina B’s and was looking for a timeless dress with sleeves. Admire by Suzanne Neville was the fourth gown she tried on and knew it was the one for her. “The crepe material falling in such an elegant way helped to achieve the classic yet modern look I’d pictured,” the bride tells us. Russ chose a morning suit from Roderick Charles, paired with an Oliver Brown waistcoat, and dressed his groomsmen to match. The bridesmaids meanwhile wore maroon/ Chianti dresses as a nod to the bride’s hobby of eventing horses, her cross-country colours being maroon. “I was very happy for them to choose their own style but they both felt best in the same dress,” she says. While Lucy finds it impossible to pick a highlight – “The whole weekend was perfect,” she says, for Russ it was driving away from the church and down to the yacht club for a quiet 10 minutes together before rejoining the celebrations. REAL WEDDINGS 19
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ROLL CREDITS Venue, North Cadbury Court, northcadburycourt.com | Photographer, Simon Biffen Photography, simonbiffenphotography.co.uk Dress, Carina B Couture | Alterations, Louise at L’Atelier, @louise_at_latelier | Suits, Roderick Charles, roderickcharles.com Bridesmaids’ dresses, Rewritten | Wedding rings, Ward & Sibley, wardandsibley.co.uk | Hair and makeup, Harriet Gallon, harrietgallon.com | Cake, Cake Design by Holly Miller, cakedesignbyhollymiller.com | Flowers, Wren & May, wrenandmayflowers.com Entertainment, Severn Duo, severnduo.com | The Trends, thetrendspartyband.com | Catering (night before), Soul Dough Pizzas, souldough.co.uk | Catering (wedding breakfast), Wild Fork West, wildforkwest.co.uk | Chip Off The Block Events, chipofftheblockevents.com | Videographer, Sparks Film, sparks-film.co.uk “ ” “Don’t overcomplicate your plans and trust your suppliers. All the hard work is done, so relax and enjoy every second.” 22
www.hintonparkholidays.co.uk ◆ A Magni cent and Individually Designed Self Catered 13 En Suite Bedroom Property ◆ Licensed for Weddings all year, including the picturesque Outdoor Pagoda Space and Gardens and the Knott Barn is adjacent to the property, o ers a bright, large area with rustic charm, exposed beams, creating the perfect ambience for a romantic Wedding Suitable for seated Receptions as well as inside Cro view ◆ e option of a fully tted Commercial Kitchen available for hire within the same building ◆ Di erent Packages available with a choice of catering options suitable for small Weddings of between 30 and 60 guests. ◆ To arrange a Viewing and to discuss your requirements for the Wedding of your Dreams ◆ Please contact : charlotte@hintonparkholidays.co.uk CROFTVIEW ◆ Hinton Park Estate ◆ Hinton St George ◆ TA17 8TL A Luxurious and Stylish Holiday Property with Licensed Wedding Venue Set within the grounds of a 1200-acre Private Estate with Stunning Rural Views – a Photographers Dream
of my life Sunshine Helen and Tim said “I do” at Matara in July 2025 and styled their day in a sunny yellow palette Images courtesy of Camilla Reynolds Photography 24
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Helen and Tim met via Facebook Dating and when the time came to propose Tim got down on one knee and popped the question at Stinchcombe Hill in Dursley in the April of 2024. The couple fell in love with Matara Centre finding it absolutely beautiful and styled it to perfection in a navy and yellow palette. Yellow roses were the feature of the floral decorations appearing in their centrepieces, the flowergirl’s super-cute flower crown and the bride’s bouquet. After the ceremony all assembled sat down to a mouthwatering afternoon tea wedding breakfast. Tummies were topped up in the evening with delicious pizzas. 26
Lawn games were laid out in the grounds of the venue to keep guests entertained while enjoying the summer sun, and later in the evening a DJ filled the dancefloor with the perfect choice of tunes. The evening ended with a bang with a firework display and sparklers. The bride looked beautiful in her tea-length, white dress with lace detail, which she found at John Lewis. “It was comfy and flattering,” she tells us. Meanwhile, groom Tim was dressed in a dapper navy suit to match his groomsmen. The flowergirl complemented the day’s palette in her gorgeous yellow dress. So, what was the highlight of the day for the bride, we asked. “Marrying my best friend,” she shares. REAL WEDDINGS 27
THE W-DAY TEAM Venue and catering, Matara, matara.co.uk | Photographer, Camilla Reynolds Photography, camillacreativephotography.com | Dress, John Lewis | Hair and makeup, Cotswold Brides, @cotswold_brides | Cake, Patisserie Valerie | Flowers, The Lily Pad Florist, thelilypadflorist.co.uk Transport, Uley Cars, uleyweddingcars.co.uk | Entertainment, South West Discos, southwestdiscosdirect.com | Sweet cart, Sweet Willows, facebook.com/p/Sweet-Willows-100094653984437 “Create lists for the day so everyone knows what they’re doing.” 28
Ian Towers Pianist and Singer The nest live music for your Wedding Day 07811 366 865 www.dreamweddingpianist.co.uk https://youtu.be/7YS8o3HUYME?si=e5LJPjTV0otHhiTA info@old-bridge.co.uk • old-bridge.co.uk • 01460 240855 Create Your Perfect Day • Licensed for weddings in the marquee and outside • Exclusive use of marquee and gardens from May to September • Ample adjacent level parking for guests • Freedom to arrange your food, drinks and entertainment • No corkage or VAT Your Party, Done Your Way • Unlimited numbers for outdoor ceremonies. • Marquee seats up to 200 people • Dance floor, tables and chairs lighting and heating included • Discreet equipped catering area and fully staffed bar provided • In between Yeovil and Taunton with easy access to the A303 07778 611413
Take your time to bring creativity to your special day at the lovingly restored Silk Mill Gallery in the centre of Frome. You have the space from Thursday until Monday. Our wedding license is for up to 100 people inside, more with the ceremony outside on our west facing terrace. Pick your own caterers and bar with no corkage or hidden extra costs. Prices from £2,700 include use of all our furniture & kitchen ware for 100+. Contact Kate to book a visit. info@silkmillstudios.co.uk www.silkmillstudios.co.uk/events/category/weddings/ Weddings near Bath, Somerset 2, 3 or 4 Days. Dance ‘til Dawn. Sleeps 16-95 Day before, Golf, Shooting, Fishing & Spa Treatments Wedding capacity 60-144 seated 3 Day Inclusive Package deals start from £10,689 including accommodation Tick all your boxes with us, we are the best for less. 01373 472550 Info@Orchardleigh.net www.orchardleigh.net Orchardleigh Estate, Frome, BA11 2PB
In love Revel in the style and elegance of the Regency era with this Austen-inspired local shoot Images courtesy of Pippa Volens Photography WITH AUSTEN With 2025 marking the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, there seemed no better place to celebrate the style and legacy than in her beloved Bath. After local team Bath Weddings Network had an initial chat with one of the registrars at the local office in the city, the idea felt right. Here, we look back at the exceptional style and elegance of the Georgian period, and how it has made its mark on wedding fashion and culture. LOCAL SHOOT 31
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THE DREAM TEAM Shoot coordinator and videographer, Bath Weddings, @bathweddings | Venue, Bath Guildhall, bathnes.gov.uk/approved-wedding-venues/register-office | Photographer, Pippa Volens Photography, pippvolansphotography.co.uk Dresses, Perfect Day Bridal, perfectdaybridal.net | Suits, Gabucci Menswear, gabucci.co.uk | Period costumes, Bath Theatrical Costume Hire, baththeatrical.com | Bridal accessories and jewellery, Maria Polianska Design, @mariapolianska_design | Hair and makeup, Margo Pulkevych, @muah_pm | Cake, The Gorge Bakehouse, thegorgebakehouse.com | Flowers, Dorset Dried Flowers, dorsetdriedflowers.co.uk | Models, Kay-Jay, kayjaymodel.com | Arkan Slifani, @arkan._.slifani18 34
simon@photographybysimon.com photographybysimon.com Perfect Wedding Photography 07973 767 386 Full Day Photography (No Time Limit) Free Drone Photography 700+ Happy Couples £1,200 Gabucci has been dressing men for over 30 years since 1991, with that sort of pedigree and history you can be sure that you won’t be disappointed. Offering a diverse range of both fabric and style you’re sure to find what you are after, whether it’s a full suit or simply a smart shirt. Within that we also specialise in dressing men and their male guests for weddings and work to support everyone in making sure the day goes off as planned and to help achieve the look the family is going for. We also work hard to offer as many of our products as possible from organic materials, and some part recycled. As a smaller business we source all the materials ourselves and commission the clothes we sell, so we are able to work with our suppliers to ensure sustainability and to cut transport costs to a minimum. Everything we sell is sourced from the UK or Europe and manufactured there too. We offers style from classic to contemporary, smart to casual. Drop in and have a look, discuss your needs with one of our pleasant and well trained staff and try a few things on 01225 469975 • www.instagram.com/gabucci_menswear 35 Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1DN www.gabucci.co.uk
HOTEL DU VIN CHELTENHAM Parabola Road, Cheltenham GL50 3AH E: events.cheltenham@hotelduvin.com • T: 01242 266 706 A DAY LIKE NO OTHER You Lov Stor , Ou Passio At Hotel du Vin, we believe your wedding should be nothing short of magical—a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. From the twinkle in your eyes during the vows to the joy of celebrating with family and friends, we’re here to make every second as special as your love story. Planning a wedding is a beautiful journey, and we’ll be by your side every step of the way. With your own dedicated event co-ordinator, you won’t just plan your big day—you’ll enjoy it. From choosing the perfect flowers to designing a stunning menu, from dressing the room in your dream colours to selecting the ideal Champagne for your toast, we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on the magic. Food is the heart of celebration, and at Hotel du Vin, we embrace a relaxed, French bistro-inspired dining experience. Whether you envision delicate canapés, a lavish wedding breakfast, or a three-course feast, our talented Head Chef will craft every bite using the freshest seasonal ingredients. Your love is unique—your menu should be too. And let’s not forget the wine—the perfect complement to every moment of joy. With up to 200 exceptional wines from around the world, our in-house wine champions will guide you through an exclusive tasting to select the varietals and vintages that truly reflect your celebration. Because a toast should be more than a sip—it should be a memory. This is your wedding. Your dream. Your love story. And at Hotel du Vin, we’ll make sure it’s everything you’ve imagined— beautiful, effortless, and deeply, wonderfully yours. Private room hire - sit down capacity 50 Exclusive use of Bistro Du Vin - sit down capacity 100 Licensed for wedding ceremonies indoor and outdoor
This local shoot is the epitome of romance Images courtesy of Charlotte Sams Photography In an English COUNTRY GARDEN Captured in the walled garden and marquee at The Old Vicarage Hotel in Bridgewater, this gorgeous local shoot captures the essence of an English country garden. Reflected throughout the cake table, accessories and florals everything complements the soft pastel colour palette to perfection. We adore the additional twists including the super-cute confetti pony and tipsy tea! LOCAL SHOOT 37
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THE DREAM TEAM Shoot coordinator and content creator, Wild Cherry Content, wildcherrycontent.com | Venue, The Old Vicarage Hotel, theoldvicaragebridgwater.com | Photographer, Charlotte Sams Photography, charlottesams.com | Andrea Quigley, andreaquigleyweddings.co.uk | Dresses, Minster Bridal Boutique, minsterbridal.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, To Have and To Hold, thandth.com | Accessories, Threads of Love, @threadsoflovex | Hair stylist, Amy Marie Bridal Hair, amymariebridalhair.co.uk Makeup artist, Maria Lucas, marialucas.co.uk | Cake and dessert table, Lydia Kraitman Cakes, lydiakraitmancakes.com | Flowers, Sherbert Bloom Florist, @sherbertbloom_florist | Venue styling, Gem of a Wedding, gemofawedding.co.uk | Stationery, Happy Everly After Stationery, happyeverlyafterstationery.co.uk | Vintage china crockery, A Little Cup of Vintage, alittlecupofvintage.co.uk Champagne and confetti pony, The Devon Champagne and Confetti Pony, thedevonchampagneandconfettipony.co.uk | Dog wedding chaperone, Arthur & Co, arthurandco.uk | Models, Rebecca White, @rebeccawhite_95 | Deividas Juo, @deivjuo Elise Honey Norcott, @elise_honey_ | Lois-Rose Norcott 40
SANNA’S CAKE DESIGN CO. www.sannascakes.co.uk contact@sannascakes.co.uk | 07952775679 Facebook/Instagram—@sannascakedesignco “B����i�n� c��� �r��i�e� f�� ��� �ed��n� - tas�e� �n� lo��e� ����� �h�� �� c��l� h��� h��e� f��!” Georgina Wedding cake designer based in the Cotswolds. Providing a friendly and personal service for your dream cake. INVITE ‘HUGO’ TO YOUR WEDDING RECEPTION! Hugo is a gorgeous vintage HY van. We cook sweet and savoury crêpes, suiting all dietary/age requirements, and supply everything for your guests. All you need to do is choose the menu. As a premier food outlet, all our utensils and tableware are 100% recyclable. We can also supply hot beverages and liqueurs. WWW.CAROLINESLITTLEKITCHEN.ORG.UK 07919 440146 @carolineslittlekitchen Carolines Little Kitchen PTION! ook sweet and uirements, and ou need to do outlet, all our le. We can also eurs. HEN.ORG.U nes Little Kitchen TO Hugo is savoury supply is choo utensils a WWW.CA 07919 44 supply is choo utensils a WWW.CA 07919 44 Wedding Mobile Food Services Of The Year REGIONAL FINALIST South West Caroline's Little Kitchen TO YOUR WEDDING RECEPTION! Hugo is a gorgeous vintage HY van. We cook sweet and savoury crêpes, suiting all dietary/age requirements, and supply everything for your guests. All you need to do is choose the menu. As a premier food outlet, all our utensils and tableware are 100% recyclable. We can also supply hot beverages and liqueurs. 07919 440146 @carolineslittlekitchen Carolines Little Kitchen Caroline’s Little Kitchen www.clk.org.uk Taunton of 70 Station Rd, Taunton, TA1 1NX Traditional Gentlemen's Out ers with personal instore service Celebrating 100 years 1924-2024 Tel: 01823 333 169 Email: post@gurds.co.uk Website: www.gurds.co.uk
Let them eat cake! If you’re not sure where to start with your big-day bake or indeed whether you even want one, read on for some food for thought There are so many wedding traditions that nowadays, we often don’t have any idea why we still adhere to them. Indeed, many couples are choosing not to. A wedding cake may be one such custom that’s raising a few question marks for you. Unless of course you just love cake and wouldn’t ever question the opportunity to opt for a showstopper on your big day. That being the case, go right ahead and do what makes you happy. For those of you less sure whether a cake is money well spent, let’s meander through the world of wedding cakes to help you decide. Top tip Once you’ve cut the cake, have the venue’s team put aside the top tier of your favourite flavour for the two of you to take home and enjoy. Believe us, it’s all too easy to blink and miss getting a taste of the bake you spent so much time and money on! THE REST IS HISTORY Wedding cakes boast a long and vibrant history, with humble origins in ancient Rome where a simple loaf of barley bread was broken over the bride’s head to symbolise good fortune and fertility. As we move into the Middle Ages through to the Renaissance era, we start to see wedding cakes looking more like, well, cakes! During the 16th and 17th centuries, bride pies or wedding pies were a staple at wedding feasts. Indeed, one of the earliest known recipes for a wedding cake appeared in 1655, while the first recipe for sugar paste was first published in 1609. By the Victorian period, the traditional wedding cake looked much more like the showstopping confections we encounter today. Tiered cakes became popular, as did white icing inspired by Queen Victoria’s nuptials in 1863. In general, the notion of simple food was making a shift firmly into the realm of spectacle, so the once humble big-day bake dutifully followed suit. Royalty carried on inspiring the masses into the 20th century, with King George VI’s 1923 wedding cake being the most sought after – a 10-foot high, 800-pound creation complete with figurines, cherubs and intricate icing. Today, wedding cakes run the entire gambit from single tier cutting cakes, to multi-tier showstoppers. They’re also versatile when served as a wedding breakfast dessert and act as a jawdropping focal point to your venue styling, when dressed to impress. They even offer the key to conveying your personalities as a couple both through flavours and decoration. READY, STEADY, GO So, you’re sold on the idea of a wedding cake? Where do you start? While Pinterest, Google and Instagram are great places to look for inspiration, try not to get caught up in the hullabaloo. There’s 42
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unsplash.com@kristycruzm_ unsplash.com@josuemichelphotography TASTE TEST When many of us think of a wedding cake, the traditional heavy fruit version first popular in the Middle Ages, might spring to mind. Love it or hate it, it’s far from essential at 21st century weddings, so don’t let the idea hold you back. In fact, there’s no reason to let any dislikes give you pause on the flavour front, since the options offered by local bakers are almost as varied as the designs they come up with. Meanwhile, dietary requirements can also be catered for by the region’s talented bunch. And if you can’t decide, why not opt for a tier of each of your favourites? How about a his and hers? We love the idea of combining a light, fruity flavour such as elderflower, Champagne and strawberry with something rich and decadent like salted caramel. Then, for the final tier play it safe with a classic Victoria sponge. Some cake makers will offer a tasting box through the post allowing you to try before you buy. Alternatively, if you can have an in-person consultation, find out if you can try some samples to help you narrow down your choices. Top tip If the day’s a scorcher, bring your cake out later when it’s cooled down to avoid it melting and collapsing. Have your venue store it somewhere cool in the meantime or ask your cake maker to deliver it later. Alternatively, find a place to display it inside away from direct sunlight beaming in from the windows. GO YOUR OWN WAY If, by this point you’re still not sold on the idea of a wedding cake, there are myriad alternatives for you to ponder. Perhaps you simply don’t have a sweet tooth. May we highly recommend a spectacular cheese tower? With artisan cheese boutiques cropping up all over, you may well be able to shop local and have a specialist compile a stack of local cheeses covering every taste from the mild to the blow-your-socks-off strong! Not only delicious, these are worth their weight in gold when you serve them to your guests as the evening meal and dancefloor fuel with a selection of crackers and yummy chutneys. Dessert tables are totally on trend and still offer the opportunity to make a statement. Here, you have much more scope to cater to all tastes, and you can personalise the spread with all your favourite sweet treats – think brownies, cake pops, macarons, millionaire’s shortbread and so much more. Plus, you can still adhere to your colour palette with smaller, bite sized iced confections that are dancefloor friendly. Why not consider an alternative wedding cake if sponge or fruit doesn’t set your world alight? We adore a macaron, doughnut, cupcake or profiterole tower. Again, these treats are easy for guests to grab as they head to the dancefloor, make for a memorable centrepiece, and can be customised according to your theme. Fear not, if all of this sounds much more up your street but you’d lament the loss of the traditional cake cutting ceremony, these alternatives can be paired with a small, single tier cutting cake either as part of a dessert table or as the top layer of a tower. The best of all worlds we say! Top tip Provide your guests with cake boxes so they can take a slice home. After a day of eating, they might not fancy a rich cake there and then, leaving you with more than you can manage left over. Giving them the option to take some home will give them something to look forward to! nothing worse for a cake designer than being presented with an interminable moodboard of images that might appear similar but are actually completely different. Your confusion will only lead to their confusion, particularly if what you’re showing them isn’t even their style. Don’t worry, there’s a simple solution. Scroll through your favourite images for points of similarity. What do you really love about each of the cakes you’ve saved? Make a shortlist and hold onto it. Before racing into a decision and approaching the first cake maker you find, who might not be the right fit for you, try narrowing down your searches with some of the keywords from your shortlist. Add in ‘Somerset’, ‘Gloucestershire’, or ‘Wiltshire’ too and hey presto, you should find the makers who fit your desired vibe and are capable of bringing your vision to life. When you head for your consultation have a realistic idea of budget in mind. The key here is ‘realistic.’ You may want a 10-tier George VI-esque showstopper, but are you prepared to put the financial backing behind it? If not, have a think about how you might be able to incorporate the elements you love into something more palatable for the purse. Be prepared to work with your cake maker on the design to bring the dream in on budget. 44
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