Tie the knot in a local hotspot MAR/APR 2026 £3.55 Power COUPLES Real-life love stories KEEP CALM and PARTY ON Big-day entertainment ideas DEVON CORNWALL & WEDDING WIN! A honeymoon in the Seychelles worth more than £5,000 EAST AND MID DEVON With love from What’s new? Regional openings and updates
With Easter upon us, this feels like it’s going to be an eggcellent year! Not only can we look forward to this spring break (and all the tasty treats it offers), but we also have the May bank holidays to enjoy. If you’re searching for stylish staycations to book over these holidays or looking for a local mini-moon destination, then turn to our travel section starting on page 72. If you’re planning a wedding in East or Mid Devon, then turn to page 11 to read about some of the best venue choices. For those of you searching for real-life wedding inspiration, check out our couples on page 18. Kirsty and Matt chose to get married at East Soar Outdoor Experience, located on a National Trust farm in South Devon - we take a sneak peek below. That’s not all – there’s new-season bridal fashion, brilliant beauty buys, news, offers and more. If you’ve just started your wedding planning journey, then enjoy the ride, and I’ll see you next issue! Claire Ridley, Editor Happy Easter! Claire x Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by Ellis Media and Events Ltd. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Your Devon & Cornwall Wedding is published six times a year. ISSN 2397-4133 DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding EDITORIAL Editor Claire Ridley | 01376 535 611 claire.ridley@county.wedding ADVERTISING Account Manager Chelsie Smith | 01376 538 560 chelsie.smith@county.wedding On the cover Photographer Nicole Beveridge captured this beautiful cover image at Kayleigh and Craig’s summer celebration that took place at Whitemoor Weddings. Turn to page 24 to see the feature in full, along with the list of local suppliers who collaborated on it, nicbevphotos.com Behind-the-scenes Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com @CountyWeddingMagazines @countyweddingmagazines @countyweddingmagazines East Soar Outdoor Experience hosted the real wedding of Kirsty and Matt, photographed by HBA Photography. A talented team of local suppliers collaborated to create the couple’s fashionable looks - turn to page 18 to see more. Kirsty chose a chic pair of Jimmy Choo shoes to complement her long-sleeve dress and romantic veil. I love the Just Married personalised umbrella that Kirsty and Matt chose for their wedding! Bride Kirsty chose elegant pearl jewellery for her wedding to Matt who wore his RAF uniform. EDITOR’S LETTER 3
Regulars 3 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Claire 7 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the regions 82 COMPETITION Win seven nights all-inclusive to NIVA Labriz Seychelles, worth more than £5,000 In this issue... MARCH/APRIL 2026 Venues 11 SPOTLIGHT ON...EAST AND MID DEVON Tie the knot in a local hotspot WIN SEVEN NIGHTS ALL-INCLUSIVE TO NIVA LABRIZ SEYCHELLES, WORTH MORE THAN £5,000 Features 31 VINTAGE VIBES Colehayes Park in Bovey Tracey provided the beautiful backdrop for this vintageinspired shoot created in collaboration with a talented selection of Devon-based suppliers 37 THE SOUND OF MUSIC This A-Z of music and entertainment ideas is for all generations at celebrations large and small 40 A SHOW OF SUPPORT There are plenty of ways your wedding can give back by supporting a charity close to your hearts 42 FUR-EVER AFTER The joy (and reality) of pets at weddings 45 BRIDE TRIBE Bridesmaids, mums and brides will love this selection of dresses, shoes and more 48 DEAREST GENTLE READER Style your day the Bridgerton way Win 82 7 42 52 4
78 Real weddings 18 A SUMMER CELEBRATION Kirsty and Matt hosted their reception at East Soar Outdoor Experience, a National Truct farm in South Devon. 24 DOWN AT THE BARN Kayleigh and Craig enjoyed a summer wedding at Whitemoor Weddings in North Devon Honeymoons 72 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 74 SLOW LOVE IN ZANZIBAR This elegant four-star, eco-committed, adults-only resort, Matemwe Attitude, blends understated luxury with Swahili culture, inviting guests to swap schedules for sea breezes and discover the island through its people, food and gentle pace 78 DREAMY MINI-MOONS Fall in love all over again with the UK’s most romantic destinations 80 DREAM GETAWAYS Take our fun quiz to discover your perfect honeymoon destination Fashion & Beauty 50 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 51 PERFECT PAIR Pick and mix these aisle-worthy bridal shoes and bags 53 STRIKE A POSE Couture-inspired silhouettes are gracing the bridal catwalk 57 TAKE A BOW Whether it’s an oversized bow or a dainty detail, this fashion staple is here to stay 62 BEAUTY BUZZ The latest launches and must-haves 36 SLEEP WELL Sleep therapist Denise Iordache from JoySpace Therapy tells us how changing small habits can make the world of difference to a better night’s sleep 64 HANDS UP! Products you’ll want to get your mitts on 24 Grooms 66 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 67 TIME TO WED How to pick a watch that balances style, sentiment and practicality 68 ABOVE THE CLOUDS Cloud Dancer, Pantone’s 2026 Colour of the Year, brings a soft, modern edge to the groom’s look 70 ADVENTURE AWAITS From adrenaline highs to laid-back laughs, we’ve created a feature packed with stag do ideas for every personality 18 CONTENTS 5
Food for every occasion The Ginger Catering Company is a family run business . We pride ourselves on making a bespoke menu for each of our couples. For your special day you will receive a free taster session and lots of support and guidance on how to cater for your guests. We use locally sourced Ingredients in all of our food options. We pride ourselves on our quality of product and quality of service. We can cater for all dietary requirements and each booking is tailored to your individual needs. We have variety of options Hog Roast, BBQ’s, Carvery, Afternoon Teas, Rustic Buffets, Authentic Paellas, Canapes and some of the most amazing desserts 07949 214984 • thegingerpigcompany@gmail.com • www.facebook.com/TheGingerPigCateringCompany Countryside spa retreat Sleeps up to four guests Private retreat where guests have exclusive use Tucked away in the heart of North Devon’s rolling countryside, our exclusive spa retreat offers the perfect escape for couples, friends or family seeking rest, reconnection, and rejuvenation. With a heated hydrotherapy spa pool, luxurious sauna, sweeping views over open fields, tranquil woodland walks and a private lake to relax beside, this is more than a getaway - it’s a complete reset for the body and mind. Celebrating a special occasion? Why not book our private chef, or arrange an exquisite hamper. FREMINGTON, NORTH DEVON 07950 994 729 • info@pickettsbartonspa.co.uk www.pickettsbartonspa.co.uk
Picketts Barton Spa opens in Devon A new luxury spa retreat, Picketts Barton Spa, has just launched in Fremington, North Devon. It provides exclusive accommodation for up to four guests, designed with special occasions in mind. It’s the ideal choice for romantic mini-moons, honeymoons and wedding anniversaries. This independent project has been created by a couple, John and Frankie, who have spent several years designing and building the retreat, which is home to two beautifully designed bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, plus a heated spa pool with hydrotherapy loungers and a traditional Canadian Hemlock sauna. Optional beauty treatments and private chef experiences are on offer, along with a private driving range for golf enthusiasts. The dog-friendly property, which is wheelchair accessible throughout, boasts sweeping views across open fields and flower meadows, and features a private lake in the grounds. Sustainability is at the heart of the retreat, with the spa operating off-grid using solar power. It has been thoughtfully designed to tread lightly on the landscape, while still delivering a luxurious experience that’s connected to the natural world. pickettsbartonspa.co.uk CHINA FLEET COUNTRY CLUB COMMEMORATES 30 YEARS SINCE ITS ROYAL OPENING China Fleet Country Club, one of the South West’s premier health and leisure destinations, recently celebrated the 30th anniversary of its official opening. Dean Bennett, managing director of China Fleet Country Club says, “Commemorating 30 years since our official opening by the then His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales is an incredible milestone for everyone associated with China Fleet Country Club. The club’s military charity status and heritage demand a legacy of excellence and service, which is built into the fabric of our club.” Over three decades, the club has grown into a multi-generational destination offering exceptional facilities, including its championship golf course, luxury spa, and extensive fitness centre, while honouring its military heritage. It has achieved investment, benefitting from multi-million-pound enhancements, including the recent substantial gym refurbishment, the high-tech Toptracer Driving Range, new look Brasserie and a dedicated Barn Spa, ensuring facilities remain cutting-edge. china-fleet.co.uk Read more online at yourdevoncornwall.wedding SHELL BELLE COUTURE CELEBRATING 15TH ANNIVERSARY North Cornwall-based luxury lingerie, nightwear and resort wear brand Shell Belle Couture is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. Known for their silk kimonos and French lace slips, they’re the perfect pick for wedding and honeymoon pieces with a vintage aesthetic and intricate attention to detail. shellbellecouture.com NEWS Nearlywed All the latest from the regions LATEST NEWS 7
Editor’s pick Escape to the countryside for a romantic mini-moon in Devon or Cornwall. Hank’s Annexe, a one-bedroom cottage in Colyton, Devon, sleeping two people, is tucked away in a secluded East Devon valley near the Jurassic Coast. This award-winning, adults-only hideaway has been created for romance. Designed for two people, this luxurious Five Star Gold retreat offers far-reaching rural views, a private enclosed garden, and beautifully crafted interiors. It’s home to a dramatic four-poster bed and an indulgent bateau bath. Honey Pot in Cornwall is a cosy one-bedroom cottage in Duloe sleeping two people, designed for comfort, connection and relaxation in the Cornish countryside. With peaceful valley views, there’s a wood burner for snug evenings, and guests can slip into fluffy robes, soak beneath the stars in the hot tub, and curl up in the king-size bed beneath a sparkling chandelier. simplyowners.net EDITOR LOVES Premier Cottages represents a hand-picked selection of four and five-star luxury holiday cottages across the UK including The Shippon in Devon, set in the tranquil River Dart valley. This property is ideal for family-moons, multigenerational family holidays or friends’ getaways with outdoor play equipment and an indoor playroom. The Shippon sleeps up to 18 people in ten bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and boasts two hot tubs against a backdrop of river views. premiercottages.co.uk BANWELLS UNVEIL CHIC NEW SPACE Sidmouth-based family-run, independent jewellers Banwells has opened its doors to a refreshing new space for couples to find the perfect pieces to mark their wedding day. The exquisite collection of carefully curated items designed to suit every style and occasion includes timeless engagement rings and distinctive wedding jewellery. It’s the ideal destination for those searching for a unique gift for the bride, a thoughtful token for the groomsmen, or a contemporary selection to surprise the bridal party. banwellantiques.com 8
UGLY BUTTERFLY AWARDED MICHELIN STAR Ugly Butterfly by Adam Handling MBE has been awarded a Michelin star, marking chef Adam Handling's second Michelin star. The award comes as the restaurant recently reopened following a major refurbishment. The Michelin accolade recognises Ugly Butterfly's commitment to exceptional produce, creativity and immersive dining, while the refurbishment brings a reimagined use of the space with a new kitchen, bar, menus and a dedicated Afternoon Tea Lounge, designed as a light-filled, refined space that reflects the natural beauty of the Cornish coast. Using exceptional Cornish ingredients, the team has created a tasting menu and a distinctive afternoon tea experience, with a heightened focus on produce, creativity and immersive dining. A bar food menu centred around caviar and lobster is available to enjoy in the bar or Tea Lounge. The main restaurant and terrace offers a single-tasting menu, showcasing exceptional ingredients from the South West's larder, with a fresh, ingredient-led approach. uglybutterfly.co.uk Read more online at yourdevoncornwall.wedding COOL CORNWALL LAUNCHES AS INSIDER'S GUIDE TO COUNTY'S BEST EXPERIENCES Cool Cornwall recently launched as the definitive insider's guide to the county's best experiences, positioning itself as the go-to resource for discovering authentic Cornwall beyond the tourist trail. The new digital platform offers expertly curated recommendations for the coolest things to see, do, and experience across Cornwall's vibrant coastal destinations. It showcases the hip, authentic side of the county that locals know and love, from hip new cafés, independent boutiques, cutting-edge galleries, and seasonal pop-ups. Written entirely by local experts with intimate knowledge of Cornwall's ever-evolving scene, the guides cover the county's most exciting coastal destinations. From Newquay's dynamic surf culture and St Ives' thriving art scene to Falmouth's waterfront buzz and Padstow's renowned food offerings, plus hidden spots in between. The platform provides online promotion for Cornwall's businesses, from boutique hotels and restaurants to galleries, activity providers, and independent retailers. It helps potential customers discover these venues through expert local curation and monthly updates. Beyond experiences, Cool Cornwall features handpicked accommodation, from design-led beach houses, quirky coastal cottages, boutique hotels, holiday parks, and cool glamping sites that reflect Cornwall's creative spirit. The platform addresses Cornwall's dynamic hospitality landscape, where new venues and temporary installations appear regularly throughout the year. coolcornwall.co.uk Read more online at yourdevoncornwall.wedding Elliot Walker Cornwall's Polhawn Fort sees trend for mid-week weddings and post-wedding mini-moons Polhawn Fort in Torpoint reveals a growing number of couples are replacing the traditional fly-away honeymoon with a post-wedding mini-moon. Slower travel, extended stays and wellness-led breaks are increasingly shaping how couples plan the days following their wedding. For nuptials at Polhawn Fort, especially mid-week weddings, couples prefer to arrive on a Monday, get married on a Tuesday, and then spend two days afterwards together once their guests have departed. Popular activities include swimming, using the sauna and walking to Rame Head. While weekends continue to be the favourite choice, couples are increasingly drawn to the idea of extending their celebration into something calmer, more restorative and personal. The team at Polhawn Fort is also seeing a rise in last-minute wedding bookings, which often means around nine weeks' notice for couples requiring a legal ceremony, making mid-week dates especially appealing and achievable. polhawnfort.com/wedding-venue-in-cornwall Read more online at yourdevoncornwall.wedding IAN WEBBER RETAINS A MICHELIN STAR AT GIDLEIGH PARK Ian Webber and Gidleigh Park have retained their Michelin star, with the news announced at the Michelin Guide Ceremony for Great Britain & Ireland 2026. The award continues Gidleigh Park’s long heritage with the Michelin Guide, which describes Gidleigh Park’s restaurant as: “Situated inside a grand Edwardian mansion, this is the epitome of country house dining; the setting, both inside and out, is beautiful, while the cooking is underpinned by superb premium ingredients.” The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Saturday for dinner, and Saturday and Sunday for lunch. gidleigh.co.uk LATEST NEWS 9
One of Cornwall’s most unique small wedding venues, Pengersick Castle is steeped in history with tales of shipwrecks, smuggling and hidden treasure. Grade I listed and dating back to 1520 the castle oozes charm and character with ornately carved fireplaces, massive beams and fine carved stone mullion windows. The castle makes the most magical backdrop for your special day. PENGERSICK LANE, PRAA SANDS, PENZANCE, CORNWALL TR20 9SJ 01736 763973 | weddings@pengersickcastle.org.uk | www.pengersickcastle.com
Tie the knot in a local hotspot This spectacular part of the region is home to the East Devon National Landscape (AONB) along with the popular towns of Exmouth, Sidmouth, Honiton and Ottery St Mary among others. Stunning wedding venues are located in East and Mid Devon, which boasts a picturesque coastline spanning the Jurassic Coast. HUNTSHAM COURT, EX16 7NA huntshamcourt.co.uk instagram.com/huntshamcourt HIGHER HOLCOMBE, OTTERY ST MARY, EX11 1PQ higherholcombe.co.uk instagram.com/higher.holcombe HAWKE BARN, STOODLEIGH, EX16 9QG hawkebarnvenue.co.uk instagram.com/hawkebarn BOVEY CASTLE, DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK, TQ13 8RE boveycastle.com instagram.com/boveycastlehotel HUNTSHAM COURT HIGHER HOLCOMBE EAST AND MID DEVON charlottedart.co.uk SPOTLIGHT ON... Andrea Kuehnis Photography VENUES 11
UPTON BARN & WALLED GARDEN, CULLOMPTON, EX15 1RA uptonbarn.com instagram.com/uptonbarnandwalledgarden PURZWELL BARN, CULLOMPTON, EX15 2AH pirzwellbarn.com instagram.com/pirzwell_barn THE CORN BARN, CULLOMPTON, EX15 1NF thecornbarn.com facebook.com/thecornbarndevon BICKLEIGH CASTLE, TIVERTON, EX16 8RP bickleighcastle.com facebook.com/BickleighCastle HARTNOLL HOTEL, TIVERTON, EX16 7RA hartnollhotel.uk instagram.com/hartnoll_hotel_devon THE LAMB INN, CREDITON, EX17 4LW lambinnsandford.co.uk facebook.com/lambinnsandford HAREFIELD BARN, CREDITON, EX17 1BW harefieldbarn.co.uk instagram.com/harefieldbarn grace-elizabeth.co.uk UPTON BARN & WALLED GARDEN UPTON BARN & WALLED GARDEN sophiemort.com 12
Your dream wedding day awaits Meet our dedicated Wedding Co-ordinator at boringdonpark.com/weddings Plymouth’s favourite wedding venue with spectacular views across Dartmoor and Plymouth Sound www.uptonbarn.com THE 2021 WEDDING INDUSTRY AWARDS: NATIONAL WINNER IMAGE BY JOSHUA GOODING PHOTOGRAPHY
Book viewings directly through our website: WWW.BOWGRANGE.CO.UK bowgrange@outlook.com • 07889 173686 Bow Grange, Littlehempston, Totnes England TQ9 6NQ Your Dream Day in the Heart of the Countryside Photography courtesy of Laura Rose Mary Photography Book for 2027 now. Ceremony License - Yes. Accommodation onsite available. Now able to offer - Weekend Weddings, Micro Weddings and Elopement Weddings. Please contact us for more information and availability. Contact 07791 978 628 www.deerfarmtipiweddings.co.uk CREAT ING UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES
EXMOUTH WEDDING VENUE, EX8 5DB exmouthweddingvenue.co.uk facebook.com/exmouthcountryweddings HARBOUR SIDMOUTH, EX10 8RU harbourhotels.co.uk/our-hotels/devon/ harbour-hotel-sidmouth instagram.com/harbour_hotels KENNAWAY HOUSE, SIDMOUTH, EX10 8NG kennawayhouse.org.uk instagram.com/kennaway_house HUNTERS MOON, SIDMOUTH, EX10 9AA huntersmoonhotel.com facebook.com/TheHuntersMoonHotel CONNAUGHT GARDENS, SIDMOUTH, EX10 8RZ eastdevon.gov.uk/parks-gardensand-recreation/events-filming-andphotography/wedding-ceremonies-atconnaught-gardens-sidmouth facebook.com/eastdevon TRACEY ESTATE PARKLAND & GARDENS, HONITON, EX14 3NW traceyestate.co.uk facebook.com/traceyestate LADY MARGARET’S MEDIEVAL HALL, HONITON, EX14 1BD ladymargarets.co.uk facebook.com/people/Lady-MargaretsMedieval-Hall-Honiton/100066437244282 SIDMOUTH EXMOUTH unsplash,com unsplash,com VENUES 15
One-Time Wedding O er (Due to Cancellation) A rare chance to secure a rustic barn wedding in Kingswear, Devon - for one couple only Host up to 100 guests for just £5,000 What’s Included: • Rustic barn venue within a beautiful coastal setting • Full catering - from selection of options for up to 100 guests • Invitation design + digital sending • Basic wedding planning support • On-the-day consultation • Basic photography package, 5 hours & editing • Optional Add-Ons (Depending on Guest Numbers) • Additional enhancements available on request info@agri-bucks.com • 07563 316389 • www.agri-bucks.com Buck’s Agricultural Project Management unveil a one-time wedding offer A rare opportunity for one lucky couple looking to secure a dream, rustic-inspired barn wedding in Kingswear, Devon, has been announced by Buck’s Agricultural Project Management, where the talented team is an expert in event management, specialising in rustic weddings and countryside dining. This fantastic offer, worth £5,000, includes barn venue hire within a beautiful coastal setting for up to 100 guests on 27th June 2026. There’s full catering from a tasty selection of menu options, basic wedding planning support and on-the-day coordination. The offer also includes invitation design with digital sending and a basic wedding photography package. Optional add-ons (depending on final guest numbers) include styling and décor upgrades, live or acoustic music and camping available on-site for guests. Additional enhancements are also available on request. This is a one-time offer to enjoy a relaxed wedding with festival vibes on 27th June 2026 due to a last-minute cancellation - once it’s gone, it’s gone! Interested couples should message the team at Buck’s Agricultural Project Management now to secure the date: info@agri-bucks.com (terms & conditions apply). agri-bucks.com instagram.com/agri_bucks Festival-style celebration
The Osborne Hotel in Torquay offers uninterrupted ocean views and a luxurious stay Nestled in a tranquil location just a short distance from Torquay Marina and overlooking Meadfoot beach, sits the stunning Osborne Hotel, offering a breathtaking backdrop for a wedding. With panoramic views of the iconic Thatcher Rock and charming seaside beach huts, the scenery is spectacular. The exterior of this grand Regency crescent building looks magnificent, and the luxurious interiors add a refined and sophisticated touch to any celebration. It marries timeless elegance with modern luxury, with its charming period features blending seamlessly with contemporary design. The high ceilings and open, airy space flood the property with natural daylight. The grounds boast secret spots that are ideal for big-day photographs while providing ample opportunity to entertain guests. Following the pathway through the palm trees, couples will find a gate leading to Meadfoot Beach, where they can have their coastal wedding photos taken. The hotel offers a variety of charming settings to get married, including the Sea View Wedding Terrace with its unobstructed and secluded views across the bay. For those wanting an indoor ceremony, the exquisite Crescent Lounge, adorned with elegant chandeliers, provides a truly sophisticated spot. This opulent space can accommodate up to 65 guests and boasts breathtaking views of the stunning coastline. In total, the hotel can seat up to 90 guests for a wedding breakfast and host up to 200 loved ones for an evening reception. For an intimate and charming atmosphere, the wood-panelled Crescent Library offers the perfect backdrop for a warm and personal ceremony. Rich in vintage elegance, this cosy space can accommodate up to 30 guests. Wedding guests are offered exclusive discounted room rates, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable stay. Additionally, the happy couple can enjoy a bespoke tasting of their wedding breakfast. The team are also thrilled to offer a complimentary Junior Bridal Suite to the newlyweds on the night of their wedding, complete with breakfast (terms apply). www.osborne-torquay.co.uk www.instagram.com/osborne_hotel_torquay Beside the seaside memoriesmilestones.co.uk memoriesmilestones.co.uk 17
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CELEBRATION A Summer Kirsty and Matt hosted their reception at East Soar Outdoor Experience, a National Trust farm in South Devon Images courtesy of HBA Photography Kirsty and Matt met via the dating app Hinge. “As Matt said in his wedding speech, who would have thought an app named after a creaky door would lead to a love story!” Kirsty tells us. Matt proposed, which came as a surprise to Kirsty. “We hadn’t seen each other much due to work commitments, so we agreed to have a special weekend away in March 2025,” she tells us. “He asked where I would like to go, and because I was born in Devon, I suggested Hope Cove, where I had never been but had always wanted to visit. Matt let me book the hotel, which I now know he did to not raise any suspicion. We enjoyed a lovely afternoon tea in a nearby hotel, then Matt suggested that we go for a walk. He had researched the perfect spot to ask me to marry him, on a bench overlooking the cove. The sun was just setting as he got down on one knee, and I started crying. I didn’t even look at the ring before I said yes through my tears – everything was perfect.” On the drive home, the couple discussed getting married in Salcombe. “We googled barn weddings and found East Soar Outdoor Experience, which looked ideal,” Kirsty tells us. “They only host nine weddings a year, and the website noted that the venue was fully booked for 2025. When I contacted them, the owner, Marijke, told me that the 30th of August 2025 was an available date, so we arranged a visit with our mums and booked it.” The couple chose a rustic-inspired theme with sage green, cream and champagne touches, as well as pale pink tones in the flowers. “I contacted Salcombe Gin to ask if they had empty bottles I could buy, and they kindly gave them to us,” Kirsty explains. “We placed lights inside and attached our table names to them. These names were after Devonshire towns, with our top table called Hope Cove. We created the stationery and menu cards ourselves, and purchased the wood slices to place the centrepieces and napkins on, topped with fresh flowers.” Kirsty’s elegant bridal bouquet was created with real flowers and repurposed after the wedding. “We placed this on my gran and grandad’s grave,” she tells us. “We also had milk churns that we put flowers in. Matt made the bridesmaids’ bouquets, and we decorated the ceremony barn with drapes, candles, seat coverings, flowers, faux bay leaf trees and fairylights.” Guests were offered a glass of sparkling English wine or elderflower on arrival. “After our ceremony, the caterers served a delicious selection of canapés, from mini Yorkshire puddings to fish options,” Kirsty tells us. “We served Moretti beer, a fabulous post-ceremony rum cocktail that our friends, Ian and Lauren, made (Ian is a famous rum ambassador), and we also offered alternative non-alcoholic options.” For the main course, everybody tucked into a barbecue of burgers, sausages, and chicken, accompanied by bottles of wine on the tables for guests to enjoy. “There was a can of sparkling wine for each guest to toast us with, to save people having to wait to get a drink,” Kirsty tells us. “It made a good sound when everyone opened them at the same time!” The evening food consisted of chips, pizza and cheese. “There was so much food and drink, including a pallet made into a crisp and chocolate food station.” Kirsty wore the Abella dress from All About Eve Bridal, which she teamed with a beautiful veil. “It was the first dress I tried on, and I tried on quite a few! I just kept going back to it,” Kirsty says. “Matt and his groomsmen wore RAF uniforms, and our beautiful bridesmaids wore sage green dresses and looked fantastic.” Kirsty and Matt entertained their guests with the singer Paris Adams. “She sang as everybody was seated, as I walked down the aisle, and as we exited the ceremony,” Kirsty tells us. “She also performed through our wedding breakfast, right up to our first dance song. Afterwards, The Atlantic Wedding Band took over, and we also had a photo booth, which everybody loved.” REAL WEDDINGS 19
“ ” “The entire day was magical, but walking down the aisle to How Long Will I Love You was a highlight.” – Kirsty 20
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THE DREAM TEAM Photographer, HBA Photography, hbaphotography.com | Venue, East Soar Outdoor Experience, eastsoaroutdoorexperience.co.uk | Celebrant, Gayle Armitage, gaylearmitage.com | Catering, South Devon Hog Roast, southdevonhogroast.co.uk | Videographer, Ba De Ya Films, badeya.co.uk | Bridal dress, All About Eve Bridal, allaboutevebridalwear.com | Personalised umbrella, Prestige Giftware at Etsy, etsy.com/uk/shop/PrestigeGiftware | Make-up artist, Get Glamorous by Bea, facebook.com/p/Get-Glamorous-byBea-61558521315575 | Gin bottles used as table décor, Salcombe Gin, salcombegin.com | Entertainment, The Atlantic Wedding Band, theatlanticpartyband.co.uk | Photo booth, Picture Blast, pictureblast.co.uk | Flowers, Linsay Johns | Faux table flowers, The Range, therange.co.uk | Hair stylist, Beth Dawes | Rum cocktails, The Rum Ambassador, instagram.com/therumambassador “ ” Top tip “If you can, create décor items yourself because it makes it personal and we’re so proud that we did this.” - Kirsty and Matt Scan to view video badeya.co.uk 22
Celebrate your love story with a showstopping centrepiece from Bakedbykerris. Based in Cornwall, Kerris specialises in beautifully bespoke wedding cakes and luxurious cake grazing tables, tailored to your unique style and flavour. Every creation is made with care, creativity, and a touch of romance — the perfect sweet addition to your wedding day. 07543 538 665 • @Bakedbykerris • Bakedbykerris@yahoo.com Our ethos is to provide a friendly but professional service whichever menu option is selected, to build a fantastic rapport with you and your guests and ensure the Hog Roast or BBQ is a spectacle at your event. We present ourselves professionally to ensure we fit in with your celebratory atmosphere. Our Hog Roasts, BBQ’s, pizza’s and many other catering options are available for corporate events, weddings, parties, festivals and community events. We offer various service options that we can tailor to your event. Please review our menu options for further details but we encourage you to contact us so we can personally discuss your requirements. We pride ourselves on being a friendly, professional caterer who will work with you to ensure your event is a success. 07970 559 209 • info@southdevonhogroast.co.uk www.southdevonhogroast.co.uk
Down at the barn Kayleigh and Craig enjoyed a summer wedding decorated with a timeless neutral theme at Whitemoor Weddings in North Devon Images courtesy of Nicole Beveridge 24
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Kayleigh and Craig met at Plymouth University, where they were introduced by a mutual friend. “Craig popped the question one evening after work,” Kayleigh tells us. “We went for a walk in the sunshine with our French bulldog, Hugo, along our favourite beach in Saunton where he asked me to marry him.” It was important for the couple to have a church ceremony. “We were lucky that one of our favourite villages, Appledore, was where I grew up, so we were able to get married in St Mary’s, Appledore,” Kayleigh explains. “It’s a stunning, quaint church with views across the village of Instow. During our ceremony, we had our dear friend Bex play the musical piece Clair de Lune by Claude Debussy on the violin as I walked down the aisle.” For their evening party, Kayleigh and Craig wanted a laid-back vibe with a natural ambience, so they chose a beautiful barn located in North Devon, where they live. “It was surrounded by picturesque fields and views of Bishop’s Tawton,” they tell us. Neutral colours were chosen for the theme because the couple wanted something that in years to come would still look classic and sophisticated in the photographs. “Our flowers were simple yet elegant, with 100 white roses placed in various mix-and-match bud vases along the centre of the tables,” Kayleigh says. “The bouquets were created with sweet peas, peonies and white roses. We also had elegant white hydrangeas for the pew ends.” The couple collected brass candlesticks from antique shops, which held beautiful white candles finished with thin black bows. “We made our seating plan using a gold antique mirror, which I hand-wrote the names for,” Kayleigh says. “We didn’t want traditional favours that get left behind, so the place name holders were all Polaroid pictures of our loved ones, which they could take away with them. We tried to find all of the guests’ old wedding photos, or a special memory with one of us.” Kayleigh and Craig wanted a family-style meal, so they chose to have a grazing platter running down the centre of the tables. “I come from a large “Seeing all of our loved ones gathered together in one place was so special. It doesn’t happen often in your life, so we were really taking it all in.” - Kayleigh and Craig 26
Irish family, and Craig is from a Spanish family, so we wanted people mingling and mixing,” Kayleigh tells us. “There was a large dessert table along with sweets for everyone to enjoy. During the evening, we had a rustic pizza van serving fresh pizza, and everyone enjoyed our stunning white two-tier cake, with one vanilla and one lemon curd layer finished with buttercream.” Kayleigh wore the dress called Millie by the House of Savin. “It was a full-length lace fitted dress with sleeves and a high neck that I purchased from Champagne & Charlotte Bridal Boutique in Bideford,” Kayleigh says. “It was classic, timeless and stunning, and I knew that I had not come across a dress like it at all. I instantly knew it was the one. I really wanted to look back at our wedding photos in decades to come and for the dress to appear timeless. Once I put my cathedral-length lace veil on with the gown, I knew that this was the last wedding dress that I was going to try on! I finished my look with a pair of classic ivory slingbacks.” Craig wore a tailored three-piece suit with the couple’s new name personalised underneath the collar. “He wore a small antique Irish clover brooch, which I noticed when we were saying our vows,” Kayleigh says. “This is a nod to my Irish roots and such a sweet gesture.” Craig’s best man wore a navy suit, while the couple’s two grooms-women wore olive green dresses. “Our bridesmaids wore bronze dresses in a mix of styles so they all felt fabulous, and I got some ivory sun umbrellas to shade the bridal party,” Kayleigh says. To entertain their loved ones, Kayleigh and Craig had quizzes scattered along the tables at dinner, and a saxophonist played three sets during cocktail hour, right through to their evening party. “We also had a phone guest book which was a retro telephone where guests could leave us messages and best of all, we passed our 90’s vintage camcorders to everyone to record our day for us and capture all the things we missed, from their point of view.” REAL WEDDINGS 27
THE DREAM TEAM Church ceremony, St Mary’s, Appledore, achurchnearyou.com/ church/9034 Reception venue, Whitemoor Weddings, whitemoorcamping.co.uk Photographer, Nicole Beveridge, nicbevphotos.com Bridal dress, House of Savin at Champagne & Charlotte Bridal Boutique, champagneandcharlotte.co.uk Suit, Suit Supply, suitsupply.com/en-gb Groom’s wedding band, Saddingtons, saddingtonsjewellery.com Jewellery, Laura Vann, lauravann.co.uk Hair, Hair by Olivia King, instagram.com/hairby__oliviaking Make-up artist, Savannah Nelis, youandnee.book.app Bridesmaids’ dresses, Pretty Lavish, prettylavish.co.uk Cake, Mollie Makes, molliemakes.uk Flowers, Church Park Flowers, churchparkflowers.co.uk Transport, Elegant Arrivals, elegantarrivals.uk Saxophonist, Lloyd Cottrell Music, lloydcottrellmusic.co.uk Daytime catering, Graze by Dish, grazebydish.co.uk Evening pizzas, Thin Nicks Pizza, facebook.com/thinnickspizza TOP TIP: “Don’t stress, I didn’t have any idea or vision when I first started the planning stage. I would recommend starting with a vision board to begin collating the feel and look of what you would like. At the end of the day, it’s the people there that will make your memories special.” - Kayleigh 28
Unit 10 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth. PL2 2PQ. 07809 298 411 Jamelias Flowers Covering all things floral, bridal party flowers, venue flowers and decorations. I also hire wedding decoration items, chair covers, arches and venue decoration and so much more. Offering a free consultation to discuss all your wedding needs to give a personal touch to each wedding. Based within Plymouth, but cover some surrounding areas. BRINGING IBIZA TO YOUR PARTY Based in Cardiff, Lloyd performs all over the UK and internationally with his unique and dazzling light up sax, at luxury weddings, private events and corporate functions. Lloyd is renowned for his electrifying performances across a range of genres. From chilled Ibiza, lounge, pop ballads for relaxed, classy background sets, to dance, RnB, House, Club, DnB for wild extravagant parties, Lloyd will light up your event with his talent. Lloyd can collaborate with any DJ you book, and freestyle over their music, creating your perfect atmosphere with ease. He is also self-contained and can perform solely with his own professional equipment. Trusted by over 700 couples, businesses and clients to make their dream come true, Lloyd understands the work and dedication it takes to curate every individual event exactly to your vision. Based in Cardiff, South Wales 07731 846366 • lloyd.cottrell17@icloud.com www.lloydcottrellmusic.co.uk Lloyd Lovely Dream Weddings In Devon Discover the enchanting Whitemoor Farm, the perfect destination for your dream country, festival, boho chic or rustic style wedding. Nestled in a picturesque setting, amidst the breathtaking North Devon countryside, our wedding venue offers a range of options to suit your needs and preferences. Located overlooking the Taw Valley, occupy the venue exclusively all day and all evening, to eat, drink and dance the night away in the great company of your family & friends, at a budget that meets your aspirations for your big day At Whitemoor Farm we provide you with exclusive use of the entire venue for your special day and work in partnership with you to arrange and customise your event exactly as you want it. Whitemoor Farm is proud to offer both indoor and outdoor areas that can accommodate well over 100 guests. 07860 180022 or 07966 882504 • info@whitemoorcamping.co.uk Bishops Tawton, North Devon EX32 0HY www.whitemoorcamping.co.uk
07592 778154 • hannahfrostphotography@outlook.com www.hannahfrostphotography.co.uk @hannahfrostphotography Planning your wedding day, looking for someone to capture your day. Look no further. With my bubbly friendly approach, I want to be not just your photographer but a friend too. My aim is to fit in with the other guests so you can enjoy the day as much as possible. However It’s important to capture all those moments that you do and don’t see. From first thing in the morning to the “we do’s” until your feet hit that dance floor. My photography stems from my fun personality. keeping it simple. Never putting you in a position that makes you feel uncomfortable. I love capturing your natural smiles, and all things that make you... you... A nurse-led clinic founded by two sisters, Frances and Harriet, specialising in subtle aesthetic treatments that enhance your natural beauty. With free consultations and bespoke care, we’ll help you feel confident for your special day — and every day after. Professional. Personal. Naturally you. North Cornwall • 07533 123760 • sorelleaestheticscornwall@gmail.com • @sorelleaestheticscornwall
Vintage vibes Colehayes Park in Bovey Tracey provided the beautiful backdrop for this dreamy shoot created in collaboration with a talented selection of Devon-based suppliers Images courtesy of Blotted Ink Photography STYLED SHOOT 31
Scan to view video halseymedia.co.uk 32
STYLED SHOOT 33
THE DREAM TEAM Photographer and coordination, Blotted Ink Photography, blottedinkphotography.co.uk | Venue, Colehayes Park, colehayes.co.uk | Concept, decor and coordination, Lily Ashton Events, instagram.com/lilyashtonevents | Videographer, Halsey Media Wedding & Event Videography, halseymedia.co.uk | Celebrant, Ceremonies by Skye, ceremoniesbyskye.com | Catering, Roots & Thyme, instagram.com/rootsandthyme | Musician, Laura Seymour Violin, lauraseymourviolin.com | Cakes, homeMead Bake, instagram.com/homemeadbake | Tailoring, Sharif Tailoring, facebook.com/SharifTailoring | Dresses, Bridal Box, thebridalbox.co.uk | Bridal boots and gloves, House of Elliot, houseofelliotcollection.com | Jewellery and accessories, Joannah and Grace Jewellery, joannahandgrace.co.uk | Content creator, Harry Does Weddings, harrydoesweddings.my.canva.site | Florist, Violet Petal Florals, violetpetalflorals.co.uk | Hair and make-up, The Looking Glass Girls, thelookingglassgirls.co.uk | Stationery, Paper & Petals by Louise, paperandpetalsbylouise.co.uk | Table place settings, Sealed with Silk, instagram.com/sealedwithsilk | Bottles and shells, The Little Forest Dweller, instagram.com/thelittleforestdweller | Second shooter, Howard Southwest, howardsouthwest.co.uk | Models, @michaeljack1994 and @hayleyxjjones 34
“Sara & Sym compliment the beauty of their vehicles. Their services are second to none, nothing is too much trouble & they fit in with any event as if they are related to their customers.” contact.honeybugscornwall@gmail.com 01209 822 383 | 07981 166098 @honeybugscornwall | www.honeybugscornwall.co.uk Best Wedding Transport in Cornwall from Simply weddings Awards 2019, 2021, 2022 & 2023! EXQUISITE TINY WEDDINGS friedaandthemoon.co.uk At Walks N Wags, we o er a professional Wedding Package which can include a luxury pamper to have your pup looking picture-perfect, for a dedicated wedding chaperone service. We will make sure they’re calm, cared for, and right by your side for those unforgettable moments. From morning prep to the final photo, we handle everything so you can relax and focus on saying “I do.” 07843 348 329 • walksnwags@hotmail.com Follow us: Walks N Wags @walksnwags_ You dding day sho l b pe ec — an co l in lu you fou -ege be f en !
Sleep therapist Denise Iordache from JoySpace Therapy (joyspacetherapy.com) warns that poor sleep is quietly sabotaging health, mood and motivation. Broken routines, late nights and stress leave many people stuck in a cycle of fatigue, low energy and poor focus, none of which you need when undertaking the mammoth task of wedding planning. However, fixing sleep can unlock better habits across fitness, mental health and immunity. Here, Denise reveals some small, realistic research-backed changes that can dramatically improve sleep quality without drastic lifestyle overhauls. BETTER SLEEP IS THE FOUNDATION “Sleep often ends up last on the to-do list,” Denise explains, “yet it supports everything from mood and focus to immunity and long-term health. Instead of obsessing over how many hours you should be sleeping, shift your attention to how well you’re sleeping. “Start with a wind-down ritual that signals safety and calm to your nervous system. This might be reading a few pages of a book, doing gentle stretches, or enjoying a caffeine-free herbal tea. Lowering the lights about an hour before bed helps cue your body that rest is approaching. “Your sleep environment matters, too. A supportive mattress and pillows, a cool room, minimal noise, and darkness all contribute to better-quality sleep.” THE POWER OF A CONSISTENT SLEEP RHYTHM “If there’s one habit that pays off quickly, it’s consistency. Going to bed and waking up at roughly the same time every day, helps regulate your internal clock and makes falling asleep easier. “If late nights are your norm, don’t force a sudden shift. Move bedtime earlier in 15- to 30-minute increments until you find a rhythm that feels sustainable. Try to resist repeated snoozing in the morning. Waking at the same time each day strengthens your circadian rhythm and improves nighttime sleep quality.” STRESS: THE SILENT SABOTEUR OF SLEEP AND HEALTH “When stress becomes chronic, prolonged exposure to hormones like cortisol can affect cardiovascular health, immunity, mood, and metabolic function. Poor sleep and high stress often form a vicious cycle, each amplifying the other. Understanding this connection is empowering. When you actively manage stress, you’re not just protecting your mental health, you’re supporting your entire system. “Let’s be realistic: a completely stress-free life isn’t the goal. The aim is resilience, having tools that help your body recover more quickly. Mindfulness practices are a powerful place to start. Meditation, deep breathing, journaling, or even a short walk in nature, can calm the nervous system and reduce stress reactivity. These practices don’t need to be time-consuming; consistency matters more than duration. “Movement also plays a key role. Regular physical activity improves sleep quality and acts as a natural stress regulator. This doesn’t have to mean intense workouts – gentle yoga, stretching, or a daily walk all count. “Research shows that mindfulness-based stress reduction lowers stress levels and improves overall well-being, while physical activity reduces the physiological impact of stress and boosts mood.” SUSTAINABLE CHANGE BEATS RADICAL REINVENTION “Big promises often fade quickly. Instead of attempting a complete lifestyle reset, focus on one small, manageable change at a time. Practice makes progress. Celebrate small wins and allow habits to evolve naturally. This is about building a lifestyle that supports you – not one that exhausts you.” Try these simple ways to start today... Create a calming pre-bed routine with low-stimulation activities like reading or stretching Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends Practice mindfulness daily, starting with just five minutes Move your body regularly, in ways that feel supportive rather than punishing Change one thing at a time to avoid overwhelm and build momentum Sleep therapist Denise Iordache from JoySpace Therapy tells us how changing small habits can make the world of difference to ensuring a better night’s sleep Sleep well 36
The sound This A-Z of music and entertainment ideas is for all generations at celebrations large and small OF MUSIC All images courtesy of unsplash.com AIS FOR ALPACAS BIS FOR BARN DANCE CIS FOR CONFETTI CANONS DIS FOR DJ AND DISCO EIS FOR ENSEMBLE OF MUSICIANS FIS FOR FACE PAINTING GIS FOR GUITARIST MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT 37
JIS FOR JUGGLER IS FOR LINE DANCING KIS FOR KARAOKE M IS FOR MAGICIAN NIS FOR NIGHT TIME SPARKLERS OIS FOR OPERA SINGER PIS FOR PIANIST HIS FOR HARPIST IIS FOR INFLATABLES L 38
QIS FOR QUIRKY BARS IS FOR ROCK ‘N’ ROLL BAND SIS FOR SILENT DISCO T IS FOR TRAPEZE ARTISTS UIS FOR UNDERCOVER SINGING WAITERS VIS FOR VINTAGE PHOTO BOOTH WIS FOR WOW-FACTOR FIREWORKS R XIS FOR XMASTHEMED YIS FOR YURT ZIS FOR ZOO ANIMALS MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT 39
Whether your life has been impacted by the work of a certain cause or you’re simply looking for a way your favours can give more than they take, considering how you can support a charity through your wedding day may well be top of your agenda. Plenty of UK charities are ahead of the curve when it comes to offering a helping hand on this front, so we’ve rounded up some of our highlights to give you a head start. ALSO CHECK OUT... British Heart Foundation | shop.bhf.org.uk/weddings Dogs Trust | dogstrust.org.uk MS Trust | mstrust.org.uk Barnardo’s | shop.barnados.org.uk Marie Curie | shop.mariecurie.org.uk Save the Children | shop.savethechildren.org.uk Parkinson’s UK | shop.parkinsons.org.uk shop.alzheimers.org.uk There are plenty of ways your wedding can give back by supporting a charity close to your hearts OF SUPPORT A show DO US A FAVOUR! Wedding favours are one of the biggest causes for concern when it comes to the environmental impact of a wedding, as most get left behind or thrown away. To counterbalance this, or better still eliminate it altogether, consider charity wedding favours. The Alzheimers Society (shop.alzheimers.org.uk), for example, offers charming blue enamel forget-menot flower pin badges, doubling as place cards (10 for £25). Here, you’ve got two wedding-day essentials taken care of, and you’re donating to a charity on behalf of your guests. Most will be willing to sport their badges to represent this, so you’re also reducing the chance of wastage. Cancer Research UK (shop.cancerresearchuk. org) too offers a stunning selection from confetti that launches discoveries, to pin badges that power breakthroughs. Thank your guests with gifts that help save lives. Priced at £2 each, you can shop the range of pins and mix or match. We’re huge fans of the supercute bumblebee badge! Mental health charity Mind (shop.mind.org.uk) meanwhile offer sunflower seed wedding favours, from £14 for a pack of 10 they’re the perfect choice for a rustic vibe. Alternatively, if you want to cut out the favours altogether and donate straight to the charity, Mind also offers packs of 50 donation cards for £6. Simply add your desired donation amount at the checkout and you’ll be helping to make sure nobody has to face a mental health problem alone. There are even a number of charities, who alongside their favours offer wedding accessories and goodies in their online shops, so you can also offer support with your styling. Check out Sue Ryder’s lovely rustic range (shop.sueryder.org). KEEP IT SIMPLE To raise as much money as you can for your chosen charity, you’ll want to make it as easy as possible for your guests, with clear reason. Before the big day, set up a charity gift registry. Instead of asking for gifts or honeymoon donations, if it’s important to you, why not ask guests to donate to your chosen charity in lieu of a wedding present? Add a QR code to a charity fundraising or Just Giving page to your invitations explaining to loved ones that they may donate if they wish, as well as why you are offering this option. On the day, add the QR code to your table names or numbers and add a personalised note to your place names explaining why the charity matters to you, encouraging loved ones to support you in your fundraising endeavours. Dogs Trust has a downloadable wedding couple’s quiz on their website – a fabulous icebreaker and guests can use the QR code on their scoresheet to donate. Alternatively, if you’ve lost someone very dear to you and have decided to set up a memory table for your reception in their honour, you may wish to choose this spot to let guests know about the charity you’re supporting if it relates to the departed. Perhaps it’s a charity that offered them assistance in their hour of need, or it’s a charity that could help those impacted by the same condition. shop.cancerresearchuk.org 40
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