WORKS of ART Daring, statement necklines WIN! A honeymoon in the Maldives SOMERSET GLOS WILTS WEDDING & , FEB/MAR 2026 £3.55 A feast to REMEMBER Tailor your wedding breakfast to suit your personalities Find your STYLE Looking your big-day best
EXQUISITE.PERSONAL.TIMELESS. 2-4 THE MALL, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 4DR 39 MARKET PL, CIRENCESTER, GL7 2NX 01179 733178. 01285 655754 TITCOMBEBESPOKE.CO.UK
Sarah and Andrew celebrated their nuptials across an entire weekend. Not wanting you to miss out on the beauty of the rehearsal dinner, we’re showcasing some of their gorgeous Friday images here. Feast your eyes! Pssst... Check out the full feature from page 18 for the full three-day supplier lists. Having reflected on what the wonderful world of weddings brought our way in 2025, we’re now setting our sights on what we think will be hot in 2026. We started to see the emergence of bolder palettes in 2025 and this year we’ll see this go even further with couples embracing colour to the max. Vibrant, rich hues will replace neutral and pastel-only schemes with bold blues, emeralds, ruby reds, sunset and citrus tones and expressive contrasts. We expect to see colour used with intention in décor, signage, tablescapes and attire. Weddings are becoming an immersive experience, and we’re here for it. Every element is carefully curated with a personal touch behind it. Think custom installations, statement lighting, sculptural florals and texture. But more than that couples will be treating guests to an experience like no other with signature scents, interactive food stations, bespoke cocktail bars and comfort zones. I hope you love this issue as much as I loved putting it together. For the first time in 2026: Enjoy and keeeep planning! Kelly Andrews, editor Something new 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 On the cover This issue’s cover was captured by Lucy Lloyd-Jones (lucylloydjones.co.uk) at Pennard House (pennardhouse.com). Don’t miss the shoot it’s taken from over on pages 25-28. Real wedding – extra! @CountyWeddingMagazines @countyweddingmagazines @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com ADVERTISING Account Manager Julia Owen | 01376 538 495 julia.owen@county.wedding EDITORIAL Deputy Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | 01376 535 611 kelly.andrews@county.wedding Images courtesy of annabeth.photos EDITOR’S LETTER 3
A HONEYMOON IN THE MALDIVES Regulars 3 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Kelly 6 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the region 93COMPETITION Win a honeymoon in the Maldives worth £5,000 In this issue... FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 Venues 10 SPOTLIGHT ON BRISTOL Tie the knot in a local hotspot Features 25 EVERLASTING LOVE Where personal details, organic beauty and timeless elegance meet 30 A FEAST TO REMEMBER Tailor your wedding breakfast to suit your personalities 36 FROM COLD FEET TO NOSHOW SUPPLIERS Protect your wedding day against unexpected events 39 IT’S ALL ON THE ‘GRAM How weddings have gone from photo albums to curated Instagram posts 54 FIND YOUR STYLE If you’re at the point of curating your individual bridal style, we’re here to help with some excellent foundations. Which bride are you? Win! 93 54 10 30 64 rebeccaroundhill.co.uk 4
Real weddings 12 ONCE UPON A TIME... Hannah and Andy’s vision for their dream day was a of a fairy tale brought to life 18 A COTSWOLDS WEDDING WEEKEND Sarah and Andrew celebrated in style at Euridge Manor across three wonderful, romance-filled days Honeymoons 80 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 82 LOVE IN THE CARIBBEAN Uncover the magic that makes St. Lucia a top honeymoon hotspot 86 A CANVAS OF CALM Where art meets the Med, we discover Mallorca’s creative hideaway, Kimpton Aysla 88 A POSTCARD FROM SARDINIA Jet to Resort Valle dell’Erica and Hotel Capo d’Orso with British Airways Holidays 90 2026 AFRICAN HONEYMOON HOTSPOTS Hot and happening African honeymoon hotspots for 2026 92 A ROOM WITH A VIEW Wake up to the chimes of Big Ben and stay at the five-star luxury London Marriott Hotel County Hall Fashion & Beauty 42 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 43 WORKS OF ART These statement necklines promise style down the aisle 49 FINE FINISHING TOUCHES Make an entrance in one of these exquisitely decorated dresses 48 WATERCOLOUR WONDERS Bridesmaids will love these dreamy new season styles in pretty, soft shades 68 BEAUTY BUZZ The latest launches and must-haves 70 THE SECRET TO SEAMLESS SCULPTING Underpainting: Get that glow-from-within look, even as we head into the winter months 72 HERE COMES THE SCIENCE BIT! We chat to ESK founder Dr Ginni Mansberg to learn how evidence-based ingredients set the brand apart in the world of skin care 77 SIX MONTHS TO RADIANCE A bride’s guide to glowing wedding day skin 78 20 WAYS TO SLOW DOWN Wedding planning is a time to treasure – find out how to avoid overwhelm and be more present throughout with mindset and success coach Jo Irving 12 72 25 Grooms 62 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 64 REFINED ROMANCE Velvet looks for today’s groom 66 WINTER LUXE We’ve put together a simple guide to help you craft the perfect winter look lucylloydjones.co.uk 82 aureliaallenphotography.com CONTENTS 5
Winning ways Claire Hansen Cakes has been announced as a South West Regional Winner at The Wedding Industry Awards 2026 in the Wedding Cake Designer category. Regional Winners now go through to the National Final. Based on average voter scores, feedback from customers from the past 12 months and the opinion of more than 160 expert judges, the 2026 Awards saw 26,747 votes cast for 1,300 entrants. “It has been a huge honour to win and means the world to me that the award is voted for by my real wedding couples,” Claire says. “I absolutely love being a small part of their special day and bringing their creative visions to life in sugar.” Find out more about Claire Hansen Cakes at clairehansencakes.com For the GROOMS Bastion of British tailoring Gieves & Hawkes has announced its return to Bath with the opening of a new store in Shire’s Yard. Set across three floors at the heart of the city, the new store, now open, will showcase the full breadth of the brand’s offering, from ready-to-wear tailoring and refined casualwear to the made-to-measure service that’s long been a favourite among discerning clients in the region. The return of Gieves & Hawkes to Bath is a welcome one – a reconnection with a city that has embraced the house’s timeless British style for decades. So, pop along to 2, Broad Street, Bath, BA1 5LJ to discover your groom style. A LITTLE BIT AUSTEN With season four of Netflix’s Bridgerton reaching its heady conclusion, the fascination with the Regency era shows no signs of abating. In harmony with this, The Gainsborough Bath Spa will be hosting two six-day events with Strictly Jane Austen Tours taking place this spring and autumn, honouring the iconic author, synonymous with Bath. Taking place on 27th April to 2nd May and 26th to 31st October, these thoughtfully curated programmes offer guests a journey back in time through expert-led talks, guided tours, creative workshops and Regency-inspired entertainment. Prices start from £2,275 per person. Find out more at strictlyjaneausten.com/jane_austen_ celebrations2026 NEWS Nearlywed Catch up on the latest from around the region mattrockphotography.com 6
Brilliant Bristol If you’re looking to hit Bristol for your hen or stag do, there’s a range of new openings and attractions coming in 2026 that you’ll want to check out! First up is Hotel Gotham Bristol (hotelgotham.co.uk), a new five-star hotel hailed as a fabulous drinking and dining venue set to open in spring 2026. It aims to be an escape, a multisensory experience and above all, a place to have fun. Mad Swans (madswans.com), located in the Mendips, just south of Bristol is a new countryside hangout, with eco-cabin stays, two restaurants (one with a menu designed by multi-Michelin starred chef, Ollie Dabbous), 12-hole golf, padel and pickleball, a driving range, putt patch, darts and more. Think of a reimagined members’ country club without the membership! Finally, for our highlights roundup, there are exciting changes afoot at Wake the Tiger’s immersive art experience (wakethetiger.com), with an outside dining and events space called Junk Yard. Comprising a stretch tent and pizza oven, the additional space will host DJs and entertainment as well as expanding on its magic. For more on what’s hot in Bristol, check out visitbristol.co.uk GREEN HOTEL HOTSPOT Hotel Indigo Bath has recently been celebrating its prestigious Green Key Accreditation reaffirming its commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism. Green Key is an international eco-label for tourism facilities, globally recognised for its stringent standards. A Green Team was set up by the staff of Hotel Indigo Bath in 2024 and achieving the Green Key accreditation is just the start of the continued work to improve the Hotel’s sustainability. Gemma Orford, operations manager of Hotel Indigo Bath, says: “We believe in not just providing exceptional service to our guests, but also in doing so in a way that minimises our impact on the environment. I’m very proud of the team who are passionate about sustainability. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the environment and create a brighter future for generations to come. To find out more about hosting your wedding day at Hotel Indigo Bath, head over to bath.hotelindigo.com/events AMONG THE CLOUDS Pantone, the global colour authority and provider of professional colour language standards has introduced Pantone 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, a billowy white imbued with a feeling of serenity as its Color of the Year selection for 2026, and it’s a total wedding vibe! An ethereal white hue, Cloud Dancer serves as a symbol of calming influence in a frenetic society rediscovering the value of measured consideration and quiet reflection. Similar to a blank canvas, Cloud Dancer signifies our desire for a fresh start. We can’t wait to see our local wedding afficionados embrace this trending hue throughout 2026! Hotel Gotham Bristol, courtesy of Visit Bristol LOCAL NEWS 7
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 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.
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 Discover the stunning settings this venue in South Somerset has to offer Croftview is an award-winning venue located just outside the village of Hinton St George, South Somerset. Set within the magnificent grounds of a 1,200 acre private estate with stunning views across the countryside, it offers a memorable location for a celebration. The 13-bedroom property was built during 2020 and has been designed with sumptuous furnishings and a high standard of craftsmanship. It’s both light and spacious and the Owl Bedroom on the top floor is particularly suitable as a bridal suite. The large outdoor lawn and licensed Pagoda space are stunning settings for a small, private ceremony, allowing a maximum of 60 guests, including the 30 people that can be accommodated to stay at the property. There’s disabled access to this area and a paved walkway together with plenty of hard standing car parking available. There are also spacious front and rear courtyards suitable for drinks, canapés and celebrations, as well as beautiful, landscaped gardens creating an idyllic atmosphere for a romantic and magical ceremony. This picturesque venue is a photographer’s dream! We love the Underground Hobbit House built into the hillside with fire pit and views over the fields beyond. It offers super-fun photo opportunities and an ideal area for guests to gather. What’s more, the recently renovated Knott Barn is licensed for “I dos” adjacent to the Croftview courtyard. The building also offers an extensive commercial kitchen suitable for caterers on the ground floor. An oak staircase leads up from the entrance hall to this room, which is perfect for indoor wedding receptions with exposed beams and rustic charm. There are various bespoke packages available on request direct from Hinton Park Holidays Limited and whichever you choose, Croftview will certainly leave you with some fabulous memories to treasure, along with the opportunity for return visits to celebrate anniversaries with family and friends. Croftview FIND OUT MORE 07835 747 525 www.hintonparkholidays.co.uk milescooper.co.uk photography
Tie the knot in a local hotspot ALMA VALE TAVERN AND THEATRE 18-20 Alma Vale Road, BS8 2HY 01179 735 171 almatavernandtheatre.co.uk ARMADA HOUSE Telephone Avenue, BS1 4BQ 0117 915 2600 | armadahousebristol.com ARNOS MANOR HOTEL Arnos Vale, BS4 3HQ 0117 971 1461 | arnosmanorhotel.co.uk ARNOS VALE CEMETERY BATH ROAD, BS4 3EW 0117 971 9117 | arnosvale.org.uk ASHTON GATE STADIUM Ashton Road, BS3 2EJ 0117 963 0680 | ashtongatestadium.co.uk AVON GORGE BY HOTEL DU VIN Sion Hill, BS8 4LD 0117 973 8955 | hotelduvin.com BAMBALAN Podium Level, BS1 4XE 0117 922 1880 BRISTOL BEACON Trenchard Street, BS1 5AR 077255 236 138 | bristolbeacon.org BRISTOL HARBOUR HOTEL AND SPA 49-55 Corn Street, BS1 1HT 0117 203 4445 | harbourhotels.co.uk BRISTOL MARRIOTT ROYAL College Green, BS1 5TA 0117 925 5100 | marriott.com BRISTOL MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY Queens Road, BS8 1RL 0117 922 2127 | bristolmuseums.org.uk BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, BS1 4ED 0117 317 8657 | bristololdvic.org.uk CITY HALL College Green, BS1 5TR 0117 922 3486 | bristol.gov.uk/city-hall CLIFTON OBSERVATORY Litfield Place, BS8 3LT 01179 809 025 | cliftonobservatory.com HOTEL DU VIN AND BISTRO Narrow Lewins Mead, BS1 2NU 0117 925 5577 | hotelduvin.com KINGS WESTON HOUSE Kings Weston Lane, BS11 0UR 0117 330 3405 | kingswestonhouse.co.uk LOCKLEAZE SPORTS CENTRE Bonnington Walk, BS7 9XF 0117 456 8955 | lockleazesportscentre.co.uk M SHED Princes Wharf, BS1 4RN 0117 352 6600 | bristolmuseums.org.uk MERCHANTS HALL The Promenade, BS8 3NH 0117 973 8058 | merchants-hall.com MERCURE BRISTOL BRIGSTOW HOTEL 5-7 Welsh Back, BS1 4SP 0117 929 1030 | mercureweddings.com MERCURE BRISTOL GRAND HOTEL Broad Street, BS1 2EL 0117 929 1645 | mercureweddings.com MERCURE BRISTOL HOLLAND HOUSE HOTEL AND SPA Redcliffe Hill, BS1 6SQ 0117 319 9004 | mercureweddings.com THE RADNOR ROOMS 30 St Nicholas Street, BS1 1TG 07900 902 265 | theradnorrooms.co.uk WE THE CURIOUS SPOTLIGHT ON... BRISTOL florencefox.com 10
NO. 4 CLIFTON VILLAGE THE RODNEY HOTEL, BS8 1HY 0117 970 6869 | no4cliftonvillage.co.uk PAINTWORKS EVENT SPACE Paintworks, BS4 3EH 0117 971 4320 | paintworksevents.co.uk RADISSON BLU Broad Quay, BS1 4DA 0117 934 9500 | radissonhotels.com RIVERSTATION THE GROVE, BRISTOL, BS1 4RB 0117 914 4434 | riverstation.co.uk SS GREAT BRITAIN Great Western Dockyard, BS1 6TY 0117 926 0680 | ssgreatbritain.org THE BRISTOL HOTEL Prince Street, BS1 4QF 0117 923 0333 | doylecollection.com THE BRISTOL PAVILION The County Ground, BS7 9EJ 0117 910 8025 | thebristolpavilion.co.uk THE CLIFTON CLUB 22 The Mall, BS8 4DS 0117 974 5039 | thecliftonclub.co.uk THE EASTFIELD PUB 219 Henleaze Road, BS9 4NQ 0117 379 0979 | theeastfieldpub.co.uk THE MANSION HOUSE Clifton Down, BS8 3LJ 0117 903 1455 | mansionhousebristol.co.uk THE OLD COUNCIL HOUSE Corn Street, BS1 1JG 0117 903 8874 | bristol.gov.uk THE SOUTHVILLE CENTRE Beauley Road, BS3 1QG 0117 923 1039 | bs3community.org.uk THE SQUARE 15 Berkeley Square, BS8 1RZ 0117 921 0455 | thesquareclub.com TRINITY COMMUNITY ARTS LTD Trinity Road, BS2 0NW 0117 935 1200 | trinitybristol.org.uk UNIVERSITY AND LITERARY CLUB Clifton, BS8 1HP 0117 929 1881 | unilit.co.uk UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL Lower Clifton Hill, BS8 1BH 0117 954 5501 | bristol.ac.uk/venues WATERSHED Canon’s Road, BS1 5TX 0117 927 5132 | watershed.co.uk WE THE CURIOUS Anchor Road, BS1 5DB 0117 915 7199 | wethecurious.org ZION COMMUNITY SPACE Bishopsworth Road, BS13 7JW 0117 923 1212 | zionbristol.co.uk SS GREAT BRITAIN rebeccaroundhill.co.uk LOCAL VENUES 11
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A TIME... Once upon Hannah and Andy’s vision for their dream day was of a fairy tale brought to life Images courtesy of Aurelia Allen Photography Hannah and Andy’s love story began in the most modern of ways, online. From the moment they matched, the connection felt effortless. By the time they arranged their first date, there was already a feeling that something special was unfolding. Andy proposed during a family trip to Portugal, which became unforgettable in the most magical way. On their final evening in Lisbon, the couple found themselves at a rooftop bar, and as they were about to leave Hannah’s brother suggested taking a photo at the viewpoint. Hannah turned expecting to pose for the camera and instead found Andy dropping to one knee holding out her dream ring. The pair visited several beautiful wedding venues during their search, but each seemed to have something missing. However, when they arrived at The Manor in Castle Combe, everything changed. “From the moment we stepped through the doors, it felt like stepping into a fairy tale,” Hannah explains. “Somehow, it already felt like home.” Hannah and Andy set out to create a world that felt like a fairy tale brought to life – romantic, timeless, and effortlessly glamorous. “We wanted every detail, from the flowers to the décor to feel soft, elegant and wonderfully dreamlike,” Hannah tells us. Their palette reflected that vision beautifully with cream, white and blush pink creating a gentle ethereal atmosphere. Flowers were at the heart of the vision, and Hannah knew a large part of the budget would be dedicated to them. A fragrant cloud of florals wrapped the whole day in beauty. “And the scent... I’ll never forget it,” Hannah remembers. The styling wasn’t only about grandeur though; it was also deeply personal. Hannah wrote each guest a personalised letter, sharing just how much they mean to the couple. Champagne toppers were engraved with Mr & Mrs Wynne, while elegant drink stirrers were etched with A + H, and bespoke napkins were printed with The Wynne Wedding. Hannah began her dress search certain that she wanted a classic ballgown, something princess-like. “I thought I knew exactly what I’d walk out of the bridal boutique with,” she says. “But wedding dress shopping has a way of surprising you.” When she stepped into a sleek silhouette that hugged her in all the right places, Circe from the Elysee collection by Enzoani, she knew she’d found the one. “It was the one that made my heart stop,” she remembers. The groom, meanwhile, wore a classic black tux with his groomsmen dressed to match, and the bridesmaids looked beautiful in pale blush gowns. Vocalist Hannah Glenross wowed guests with her performance, with many guests asking whether she was famous - “She was that incredible,” Hannah says. This was followed by Opera Boys, who the couple had seen on TV and the West End stage. “They are next level,” she shares. Later into the evening, a DJ took over along with a sax player, which rounded off a perfect day. “The dance floor was rammed all night,” Hannah recalls. REAL WEDDINGS 13
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ROLL CREDITS Venue and catering, The Manor, exclusive.co.uk/the-manor-house | Photography, Aurelia Allen Photography, aureliaallenphotography.com | Dress, All About Eve, allaboutevebridalwear.com | Suits, Dyfed Menswear Bristol, dyfedmenswear.co.uk Bridesmaids’ dresses, Ever Pretty | Jewellery and wedding rings, Goldsmiths | Hair stylist, Karen Amelia Hair, karenameliahair.com | Makeup artist, Christina Ouloupim MUA, christinaouloupimua.com | Cake, Anna Cake Couture, thisisanna.co.uk | Flowers, Love Flowers, loveflowersuk.com | Entertainment, Opera Boys, contempoproductions.com | Hannah Glenross, hannahglencrossvocalist.co.uk | Lizzie Sax, lizziesambrook.com | Future Media Weddings, future-media.co.uk | Personalised biscuits, Hopkinson Bakes, @hopkinsonbakes | Venue styling, Aztec Venue Decorations, aztecvenuedecorations.co.uk | Photo booth, flowerwall backdrop and LED sign, The Magic Photo Booth Company, themagicphotobooth.co.uk “ ” “As Andy and I sat at our sweetheart table (something I’d recommend to any couple), that little bubble, just the two of us among a room full of people, felt incredibly special.” 16
Bespoke Cake Designer in the Cotswolds Handmade, fresh to order using only the finest ingredients - from wedding cakes to cupcakes. Simply Elegant Cakes, As Unique As You Are! www.annabakercakes.co.uk Facebook/Instagram: Anna Baker Cakes annabakercakes@gmail.com | 07805 808474 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
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A Cotswolds wedding weekend Sarah and Andrew celebrated in style at Euridge Manor across three wonderful, romance-filled days Images courtesy of Anna Beth Photography REAL WEDDINGS 19
Sarah and Andrew met on Tinder. With Sarah living in London and Andrew in Surrey at the time their distance settings should never have let them match. But on that day, Sarah was flying back to Malaysia from Heathrow to visit family bringing them closer and fate intervened. Andrew proposed at Blenheim Palace beneath the glow of the Christmas lights trail in December 2023. As they reached the heart-shaped installation, Andrew got down on one knee and popped the question. Unbeknown to Sarah a photographer had been quietly following them along the trail ready to capture the moment as it unfolded. At Euridge Manor, with its sundrenched courtyards, stone archways and elegant surroundings, the couple felt as though they’d been whisked away to Italy. “Every corner was beautiful, intimate and full of character, making it feel incredibly special,” Sarah explains. So, with the venue decided upon, the couple were drawn to an English country garden aesthetic and brought the theme to life using a pastel palette of soft pink, lilacs, baby blue, green and white. The vision became a reality through layered, thoughtful styling that enhanced the natural beauty of the venue. Wedding planner, Poppy Sienna Events, curated and planned an entire wedding weekend, ensuring every detail felt cohesive and effortless. Florals played a central role, with Issy from Wizz & Wild creating breathtaking installations, including the abundant ceremony design the couple married beneath. Meanwhile, venue stylist Etiquette added some carefully curated pieces, which elevated the space without overpowering it, resulting in celebrations that felt timeless, romantic and magical. 20
The beautiful bride wore a Galia Lahav wedding dress, Almaz. “I knew it was the one,” she shares. “I’d seen it first back in 2018 and saved it on my phone, where it stayed for years. There were no Galia Lahav boutiques in the UK at the time, then as if it was meant to be, the first flagship store opened in London, just in time for me to begin my dress journey!” Sarah completed her look with her mother’s diamond earrings, which she wore on her wedding day. She also wore a floral lace edged veil, embroidered with the words, “With you always, Dad.” Having sadly lost him 10 months previous, this was placed on the left side where his arm would be had he walked her down the aisle. Andrew wore an impeccably tailored bespoke three-piece suit from Zebel London in a sandy hue. Every detail was thoughtfully chosen, including the lining designed just for him. The couple kept their guests entertained with a mix of thoughtful experiences and indulgent treats. From unlimited drinks at the open bar to delicious canapés and evening food, there was never a dull (or hungry) moment. Indeed, the food throughout the weekend was a huge highlight. “Guests were still talking about it long after the celebrations ended,” Sarah tells us. Sarah and Andrew also hired a live painter to create a piece with guests invited to add their own personal touches. Live guest illustrations were a further highlight proving a hit with everyone. During the celebrations, loved ones also enjoyed a Dutch pancake cart alongside a fun photo booth that kept everyone smiling well into the evening. REAL WEDDINGS 21
THE W-DAY TEAM Venue, Euridge Manor, euridge.uk | Photographer, Anna Beth Photography, annabeth.photos | Dress, Galia Lahav Couture, galialahav.com | Veil, Madeleine Dasiy Veils, @madeleinedaisyveils | Suits, Zebel London, zebel.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, GlamEdge Dress & Gown, Malaysia | Wedding rings, 77Diamonds, 77diamonds.com | Hair stylist, Gaby Goldring, @gabbygoldringhairstylist | Makeup artist, The Makeup Labb, @themakeuplabb | Makeup assistant, By Brooke Hawker, @bybrookehawker | Lashes & brow lamination, Fleek and Flutter, @fleekandflutter | Cake, Anna Lewis Cakes, annalewiscakes.com | Flowers, Wizz & Wild, wizzandwild.com | Stationery, Olive & Millicent, oliveandmillicent.com | Reeba Rose, reebarose.com | KM Stationery, kmstationeryanddesign.com | Entertainment, ELM Agency – Starshine Band, elm.agency | DJ, lighting and photo booth, Platinum Music Events, platinummusicevents.co.uk | The Bristol String Quartet, @thebristolstringquartet | Soraya Vermeulen Harpist, @soraya_says | Matt Collins Piano, mattcollinspiano.com | Deanne Kemp Art, @deannakemp.art | Woo Illustrations, @wooillustrations | Catering, Gastro Catering, gastrocatering.com Pancakes and Co, @pancakesandco_ | Venue styling, Etiquette Event Hire, @etiquetteeventhire | Crockery hire, The Luxe Collection UK, @theluxecollectionuk | Chair hire, Allens Hire, @allens_hire | Wedding planner, Poppy Sienna Events, @poppysiennaevents | Videographer, Made to Last Films, @madetolastfilms | Content creator, Bridal Bestie Club, @bridalbestieclub FRIDAY REHEARSAL DINNER: Photographer, Anna Beth Photography, annabeth.photos | Dress, White Lace and Butterflies, whitelaceandbutterflies.co.uk | Groom’s suit, Hawes & Curtis | Hair stylist, Gaby Goldring, @gabbygoldringhairstylist Makeup artist, The Makeup Labb, @themakeuplabb | Cake, Sugar Plum Bakes, sugarplumbakes.com | Catering, Monday Pasta Club, themondaypastaclub.com SUNDAY FAREWELL NEWLYWEDS LUNCH: Photographer, Shannon Suffern, shannonsuffernphotograpphy.com | Dress, Confetti and Couture, confettiandcouture.com | Suit, Hawes & Curtis | Hair and makeup, Krystyna HMUA, krystynahmua.com Catering, Kitchen Garden Somerset, thekitchengardensomerset.com 22
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
Weddings Weddings THE CHELTENHAM TRUST BY 01242 528 764 weddings@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk Pittville Pump Room, E Approach Dr, GL52 3JE YOUR DREAM WEDDING VENUE, OUR EXPERTISE. YOUR DREAM WEDDING VENUE, OUR EXPERTISE. BOOK A VIEWING BOOK A VIEWING CLICK HERE FOR OUR BROCHURE CLICK HERE FOR OUR BROCHURE Katherine and Her Camera Pedge Photography Amanii Photography Lee Hawley Photography Lee Hawley Photography
Everlasting Where personal details, organic beauty and timeless elegance meet Images courtesy of Lucy Lloyd-Jones and Isla Elodie Photography LOVE A celebration of everlasting love, this local shoot was inspired by candlelit luxury and timeless elegance. Set against the romantic backdrop of Pennard House, it flawlessly blends heritage and charm with modern sophistication. Deeply personal details infuse the images with artistry and sentiment from the bride’s veil embroidered with the words of a poem to flowers featuring delicate textures softening the drama of the candlelight. Every element was thoughtfully chosen to weave together intimacy, luxury, and enduring elegance, creating a celebration that feels both sentimental and timeless. lucylloydjones.co.uk LOCAL SHOOT 25
Images on this page courtesy of Lucy Lloyd Jones 26
islaelodiephotography.com LOCAL SHOOT 27
THE DREAM TEAM Shoot coordinator and content creator, The Wild Cherry Content Co., wildcherrycontent.com | Venue, Pennard House, pennardhouse.com | Photographer, Lucy Lloyd-Jones, lucylloydjones.co.uk | Isla Elodie Photography, islaelodiephotography.com Dresses, Minster Bridal Boutique, minsterbridal.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Anne Louise Boutique, annelouiseboutique.com Veil, Rebecca Anne Designs, rebeccaannedesigns.co.uk | Accessories, RW Weddings, @rwweddings | Hair stylist, Hair by Leanna Biggs, leannabiggsmakeupandhair.com | Makeup artist, Ewa Iracka Makeup Artist, ewairackamakeup.co.uk | Suits, RagTags, ragtags.co.uk | Cake, Lydia Kraitman Cakes, lydiakraitmancakes.com | Flowers, Bramble and Wild, brambleandwild.com | Large flowers, Grandeur Blooms, @grandeurblooms | Dried flowers, Dorset Dried Flowers, dorsetdriedflowers.co.uk | Venue styling and on-the-day coordinator, Knot & Co, knotandcouk.com | Transport, Lil and Blue, lilandblue.com | Stationery, Mirabelle Makery, mirabellemakery.com | Macarons, The Gorge Bakehouse, thegorgebakehouse.com | Celebrant, Eleanor Willock, eleanorwillock.com | Ice cream van, Tipsy Moo, @tipsymoovan | Photo booth, Mobile Photo Booth, mobile-photo-booth.com Cardigan, Threads of Love, @threadsoflovex | Live illustrator, Foxy Peach Illustrations, @foxypeachillustrations | Drinks, Oatley Vineyard, oatleyvineyard.co.uk | Bubble machine, Extreme Effects, extremeeffects.co.uk | Entertainment, Shalana Serafina, shalanaserafina.co.uk | Laura Seymour Violin, lauraseymourviolin.com | PJs, EllaNora London, ellanoralondon.com Images on this page courtesy of Isla Elodie Photography 28
chandeliers for film & tv the supply, hire and bespoke manufacture of chandeliers for film & tv production 07976 369360 | info@crescent-moon.co.uk View our stock: www.crescent-moon.co.uk chandeliers for film & tv the supply, hire and bespoke manufacture of chandeliers for film & tv production 07976 369360 | info@crescent-moon.co.uk View our stock: www.crescent-moon.co.uk CHANDELIERS FOR EVENTS THE SUPPLY, HIRE AND INSTALL OF CHANDELIERS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS VIEW OUR STOCK: WWW.CRESCENT-MOON.CO.UK 01373 887275 | INFO@CRESCENT-MOON.CO.UK The Cider Barn is a simple, rustic and wonderfully charming venue in an old stone and thatch roofed barn surrounded by the fields and woods of the Dillington Estate. The Cider Barn is a weekend dry hire venue so you are free to create the wedding you want without restrictions on who does the catering, who runs the bar or which wines are served. Accommodation also available. Visit our website for more information: dillingtonestate.co.uk/weddings/ Or email for our brochure or to book a viewing: weddings@dillingtonestate.co.uk Creating beautiful designs with homegrown Somerset seasonal owers. flowers@thesecretflorist.co.uk www.thesecretflorist.co.uk @The secret orist somerset Image courtesy of Shooting Pixels
A feast to remember Tailor your wedding breakfast to suit your personalities Like almost every other aspect of your wedding day, the wedding breakfast is something that can be personalised to perfection. Look how far we’ve come! Once upon a time, nothing could be further from the truth. Millennials, hands up if you’ve been to multiple weddings serving the same, bland fare: melon with Parma ham, chicken supreme, and pavlova. It was fine, edible, but it was never going to set the world alight. Rarely did the dishes ever have anything to say about the newlyweds other than, “I’m just here to suit everyone.” When, in reality, all this type of food did was suck the joy out of the room. Happily, those days are behind us. Today’s wedding breakfast is an experience in itself. Modern couples are freeing themselves from the shackles of tradition in favour of food that makes them happy and tells a story. Remember, your wedding breakfast can be memorable – a talking point for years to come, for all the right reasons. And here’s how! Heritage highlights If the two of you come from different cultural backgrounds, why not celebrate both through your wedding breakfast? Fusion menus are a great way forward to bring in the best of both worlds and celebrate the two of you as a couple, bringing the two cuisines together to mirror the marriage of two cultures. Ask your caterer to come up with a blend of the two, for example an English roast with Moroccan spices. If you love this idea but are left lamenting the fact that you’re both British, don’t! You can celebrate different regions of the UK just as you can with other nations. Think of key ingredients that can be locally sourced – Scottish salmon and Welsh lamb are iconic examples. Or if you’re both from Somerset, Glos or Wilts, why not incorporate some local cider or scrummy cheddar? Not to mention all the delicious local honey, jams and chutneys you can find at artisan food markets. Alternatively, bring in the global cuisine as part of your love story. Did your spouse ask you to marry them in Italy? Opt for a Mediterranean menu. Do you adore travelling the world together? Choose your favourite cuisine form those destinations and talk to your caterer about devising a creative and cohesive menu inspired by them. Social butterflies If the two of you view dining as a social event, you might want to look into ways of incorporating more interactive ways of dining. With just a small tweak to the traditional three-course seated wedding breakfast, you can introduce sharing dishes for a family feast vibe. Ask your caterer for suggestions that involve a group of terrines full of piping hot goodness served to the table, allowing guests to pass them around and dish up for each other. We love the idea of serving roast joints to be carved by a nominee or volunteer at the table (chef’s hats optional!) along with a myriad of mouthwatering sides to dish up, such as roast or dauphinoise potatoes, salads, grains and sauces. Take the social element to the next level and opt for a stunning grazing table. Perfect for the summer, these can be packed with such treats as cheeses, cured meats, crudites, olives, marinated veg, artisan breads, flavoured butters, dips and whatever else your hearts desire! Ditch the seating plan and allow guests to sit wherever they wish with their plates offering the opportunity to move around and mingle. Festival goers For those who adore the great outdoors and love nothing more than attending live music events and festivals, bring a touch of this vibe to your big day. Ditch the three-course, seated wedding breakfast in favour of an array of street food trucks. As well as ensuring there’s something to suit everyone, you’ll be keeping things informal while keeping the fun going. If you still yearn for a traditional wedding breakfast, but love this idea 30
unsplash.com@curatedlifestyle CATERING 31
unsplash.com@lanxiao9843 nsplash.com@anitaaustvika too, you can use it for your evening feast instead as a great way to fuel the dancefloor. There are so many options available, a few of our favourites include gourmet burger trucks, loaded fries, hot dog stands, fish ‘n’ chips and barbecue smokehouse vans. Or go global with a Mexican taco truck, Greek gyros, Thai street food, Caribbean jerk or an old favourite – woodfired pizza. When it comes to dessert, help is also on hand in the shape of an ice cream van or trike, a crêpes, churros or a barista van. Sun worshippers Another one for the outdoor lovers. If you hate being cooped up inside and want to make the most of the summer sun, a barbecue is the perfect choice. Since this is something many venues offer as a wedding breakfast option, it’ll also be simple to pull off. Barbecues also offer the perfect sociable dining experience complete with yummy smells of food cooking, so you’re sure to bring a smile to guests faces. If you’re worried about being able to offer a choice to suit everyone, this is a great way around your dilemma as caterers will generally offer you a range of options to offer your guests, meaning they can pick and choose to tailor their own feast. Vegetarians are also easily accommodated. A typical barbecue menu might include barbecue chicken, pulled pork, gourmet sausages and burgers, and sticky ribs. For those who don’t eat red meat, you can include grilled salmon or king prawn skewers. Vegetarians will love halloumi and vegetable skewers or Portobello mushroom burgers. Then, go wild with sides! You’ve got classic coleslaw, couscous, potato salad, green salads, new potatoes, mac ‘n’ cheese... should we go on? Foodies For the foodies amongst you the wedding breakfast may well feel like the main event. Perhaps you’ve opted for an intimate celebration allowing you to go all out on the elements that mean the most to you. This is super-exciting and a five or seven-course fine-dining menu in a restaurant’s private dining room with a luxurious tablescape may be for you. Here’s an example of a romantic Frenchinspired five-course fine-dining menu to get those taste buds tingling: • Amuse-bouche – Gougères with Comté cheese and truffle • Starter – Duck liver parfait with brioche and fig chutney • Fish course – Sole meunière with caper butter and samphire • Main course – Fillet of beef Rossini with Madeira jus and fondant potato • Dessert – Chocolate fondant with salted caramel ice cream Sweet tooth If you both favour sweet over savoury an afternoon tea wedding breakfast is a great option that’s totally on trend. It also allows you to incorporate many of the other benefits we’ve discussed so far. It has a sociable element with guests chating about their favourite cakes and patisseries; it’s totally informal; there’s something to please everyone – if they don’t like one sandwich filling, they’re bound to like another; and being a cold option it’s the perfect choice for the summer. What’s more, it’s budget friendly without feeling basic. This will suit you if you’ve opted for a country garden or vintage vibe celebration, and offers you the perfect excuse to hire that mismatched, chinz crockery and cake stand you’ve been hankering after. Add in some vintage garden games for the drinks reception and that’s your theme in the bag! Vegan Friendly If one or the two of you enjoy a vegan diet, or you know you’ll have guests who do, you’ll need to carefully consider your approach to your wedding breakfast. Broadly speaking, you have three options: a fully vegan menu (all courses are vegan friendly), a partially vegan menu (vegan options are available as alternatives), or an inclusive menu design (one course might be naturally vegan and suitable for everyone, alternatives are offered for remaining courses). Whichever route you decide to take we recommend enlisting the help of a wedding caterer experienced in vegan cuisine. It’s important they understand plant-based cooking delivering you delicious dishes that aren’t just reaching for vegetarian options without the cheese. Remember, a vegan menu should be thoughtful, not an afterthought. Prepared by the right hands they can be as elegant and satisfying as traditional fare. We challenge your mouths not to water at these ideas: • Starter – Pea and mint soup with truffle oil • Main course – Moroccan tagine with couscous and apricots • Dessert – Lemon tart, aquafaba meringue 32
SUSTAINABILITY You’ve put your best foot forward in curating a wedding day that’s as sustainable as can be. So, how do you employ this all-important ethos when it comes to your wedding breakfast? Here are our top tips. 1 Choose seasonal and local ingredients This helps to reduce the carbon footprint from transportation, all the while supporting local farms and suppliers. 2 Embrace plant-based options They generally have a lower environmental impact than meat-heavy menus. 3 Look for ethically sourced meats and fish Choose organic, free-range, or grassfed meats, or sustainably sourced fish certified by MSC or local regulations. Offer smaller portions of meat, balancing them with plentiful plantbased sides. 4 Reduce food waste Plan carefully to avoid excess and work with your caterer to thoughtfully use any leftovers such as donating to a food bank or homeless shelter, as supplier meals or to take home. 5 Minimal packaging and compostable materials Avoid single-use plastics in the form of individually wrapped snacks. Use compostable or reusable plates, cutlery and straws if applicable. 6 Collaborate with a sustainable caterer Work with a supplier with sustainability at its core and the hard work will be taken care of for you. Ask them about local sourcing and zero-waste policies, and discuss a seasonal tasting menu to make sustainable ingredients shine. unsplash.com@zgrillsaustralia unsplash.com@dreamcatchlight. CATERING 33
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 N! weet and nts, and to do all our can also ORG.UK Kitchen INV TO YOUR W Hugo is a gorgeous v savoury crêpes, suiti supply everything f is choose the menu utensils and tablewa supply ho WWW.CAROLINE 07919 440146 @caro supply everything f is choose the menu utensils and tablewa supply ho WWW.CAROLINE 07919 440146 @caro 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 TAILORED WORDS FOR TIMELESS STORIES WEDDINGS · VOW RENEWALS · NAMINGS CELEBRANT-LED CEREMONIES AUTHENTIC · BOLD · UNAPOLOGETIC 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/
Stag and hen adventures with Drive-Tech For couples looking to celebrate in a way that’s truly memorable, Drive-Tech offers stag and hen parties that swap the predictable for pure adrenaline. Based at the iconic Castle Combe Circuit, Drive-Tech specialises in high-quality motorsport and driving experiences designed to bring people together through shared excitement and friendly competition. At the heart of their offering is outdoor karting that delivers a genuine thrill. Groups arrive, sign in, and are fully kitted out with race suits and helmets before taking part in a full Grand Prix format, including practice laps, multiple heats, and competitive finals for every driver. Trophies await the top three, and for groups of 15 or more, the stag or hen goes free. For something a little different, Drive-Tech’s Super Sensational Skids session offers high-energy fun on a wet skid pan, combining valuable car control skills with plenty of laughter. Adventurous groups can also tackle the Muddy Marvellous 4x4 experience, an off-road challenge packed with mud, water, and team spirit. With a focus on professionalism, inclusivity, and unforgettable moments, Drive-Tech creates stag and hen celebrations that set the tone for an exciting journey into married life. Find out more at drivetechltd.co.uk Start married life in the fast lane
From cold feet to no-show suppliers Protect your wedding day against unexpected events Brides and grooms-to-be are being warned to think ahead on possible disasters, and what they can do to protect their big day – it’s crucial for couples to understand the essential checklist, and plan for what could go wrong. The research comes after a survey revealed 26% of those planning a wedding in the next three years would not take out wedding insurance. Weddings come with a whole host of unforeseen risks, like supplier no-shows, damaged goods, technical faults, damaged or lost items, severe weather and accident or illness. Although no couple wants to think about these concerns in the run up to their wedding, it’s important to make sure they protect their special day, their finances and all the time spent planning – especially since more than half who were surveyed said their wedding budget has been impacted by the cost-of-living crisis. One of the key ways couples can protect themselves is with wedding insurance, covering venue cancellation, supplier noshows, extreme weather conditions and even ‘change of heart’ insurance, to cover couples with a bad case of cold feet on the day. “We know that no couple wants to think about all of the things that could go wrong on their big day, but when you are investing so much time and money, it’s important to make sure you are fully protected.” - Helen Rolph, wedding insurance expert at Quotezone Helen Rolph, of Quotezone, goes on to add that engagement rings are not covered in wedding insurance, as they typically fall under other insurances, such as home. If you haven’t done so already, update your home insurance to add your wedding bling! BIG ISSUES ON THE BIG DAY AND HOW TO PROTECT THEM: 1 Change of heart Your general wedding insurance policy will likely not protect your investment if the wedding is cancelled due to someone getting cold feet. However, some providers offer a change of heart insurance policy to cover the couple in case this were to happen. 2Venue cancellation This will generally come under your wedding insurance policy and will cover cancellation due to extreme conditions like floods or fire at your chosen venue. It also covers situations where the venue has to cancel your wedding due to financial reasons. 36
3Supplier no-show If your caterer doesn’t show up or the photographer ghosts you in the days leading up to your wedding, your insurance policy should cover the cost. It is important to keep track of all the details, as you will need written agreements with suppliers to act as proof. A paper trail of conversations with suppliers is essential. 4Turbulent weather A policy which is especially important for those tying the knot in the UK. Your wedding insurance policy should include a point which states that if half of your guests are unable to attend due to extreme weather conditions, then you should be able to make a claim. Some policies will differ slightly on this, so it is important to check and make sure you are protected. 5Lost, stolen or damaged goods The cost of wedding bands, outfits, cake and flowers can all add up very quickly in the lead up to your wedding. So, protecting these things is essential. Your policy will most likely specify that any incidents, damage or loss needs to happen ahead of your reception in order to be covered. 6Public liability Public liability at a wedding is essential and covers the wedding organiser against any legal claims from guests, including injury and loss of goods. This policy is not often covered in standard wedding insurance, but may be required specifically by some venues, so it’s always worth checking with your suppliers and the insurance provider. 7Destination weddings When getting married abroad, there can be an even larger volume of risks for the couple, such as issues with travel logistics and local permits. Not all standard wedding insurance policies will cover overseas events, so it’s best to talk to insurance providers and double check what’s covered and what will need added as optional extras, to ensure you’re fully covered. MEET THE EXPERTS: Quotezone.co.uk helps over four million customers every year compare and find savings and includes specialist protection, such as wedding insurance or unoccupied home insurance for those off enjoying a long honeymoon. WEDDING SPEECHES 37
www.yourbristolsomerset.weddingRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=