Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - May/June 2020 (Issue 80)

All the latest from around the region NEWS Nearlywed EDITOR LOVES… This wild and wonderful arrangement is full of interest with an array of different materials including pampas grass, foliage and pheasant feathers; all fantastic low- cost items for a flowing textured floral effect. For more boho-style inspiration, check out the styled shoot on page 54. Image, www.st-udio.pixieset.com; Fl orals, www.brightblooms.co.uk; Pr ops and styling, www.whitewillowwedding.com GREEN DESIGNS Bespoke wedding dress and millinery designer Jane Beagrie is on a mission to make her business as sustainable as possible. With more than 35 years professional experience in the industry, she moved from the Cotswolds to Hampshire and launched Olivia Bea Designs last year designing and making one-of-a-kind creations for weddings and special occasions. “I love creating beautiful bespoke garments and accessories that show the individuality of people and their style. I put people first and help them create an image they will love, crafting memories,” she says. The latest chapter in her career underscores her commitment to sustainability. Inspired by her childhood passion for design and textiles and memories of transforming scrap materials from her father’s upholstery business into wearable fashion, she’s looking forward to the future with green goals high on the agenda. “One of the main advantages of starting a new venture is that you can dictate which direction you travel in. I reflected on those early days and decided on a mission statement to develop links for sustainable options throughout the business. The aim is to encourage customers to reuse, redesign and repurpose materials, garments and accessories without sacrificing on quality and purpose. From this, I am now creating a sustainable circular supply chain,” she explains. Jane crafts pieces from quality natural fabrics like soft cottons and luxurious silks, hand-printed or vintage fabrics, French or Spanish lace, embroidered and embellished by hand and reuses heritage and classic items whenever possible. “Family favourites and precious items create a very personal unique look, particularly for weddings,” she adds. During the current restrictions, Jane is offering free consultations via webcam and video links, to book a slot contact jane@oliviabeadesigns.com. Vi sit www.oliviabeadesigns.com to find out more and turn to page 13 for an exclusive Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding reader offer and chance to claim one of her fabulous headdresses or veils. Congratulations Dorset-based Bonita Elms is celebrating two top award wins, just eight months after launching her wedding cake business Bonita Bakes www.bonitabakes.co.uk Bonita scooped both the regional South West crown and then the national title at The Cake Professionals Awards in March for her large wedding cake entry. “So soon after starting my business, I was overwhelmed to have won,” she says. “My passion to ultimately work for myself became possible last July. There are a lot of different roles involved in running a business as a sole trader and I’m so grateful for the support I’ve received after joining the Mumpreneur Collective & online Cocoon founded by Erin Thomas Wong. This entrepreneurial business community has helped me enormously and still is.” Turn to pg 47 to view more of her creations and other big-day bakes by cake makers from around the region. YOUR ESSENTIALS 9