THE DOOR to LOVE Find your dream venue I do Read love stories from local couples WIN! A LUXURY MINIMOON IN WALES Pm i e c !k NORTH WEST WEDDING OCT/NOV 2025 £3.55 Wedding blooms explained Picture THIS Your guide to wedding photography
Lake District Exclusive Use EXPLORE THE MAGIC OF BROADOAKS & DOWNLOAD OUR WEDDING BROCHURE Broadoaks Country House is the award-winning fairytale venue set within seven acres of beautifully landscaped grounds in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Romantic, unique and welcoming, this traditional Lakeland building offers grandeur on a human scale. Every inch a home, but with all the modern luxuries of a 5-star boutique hotel, it’s the perfect venue for intimate weddings where you and your guests can enjoy exclusive use of the entire house and grounds. SAY YES TO AN ICONIC DESTINATION FROM JUST £2,999 Broadoaks Country House, Bridge Lane, Windermere LA23 1LA BOOK A PRIVATE VENUE TOUR: BROADOAKSCOUNTRYHOUSE.CO.UK/TOUR OR CALL US ON 015394 45566 Photography credits: Main, bottom left & bottom middle-right by Jaye-Peg Photography. Bottom middle-left by David Goodier and Decor by Purple Swan. Bottom right by James Hicks. Exclusive Use EXPLORE THE MAGIC OF BROADOAKS & DOWNLOAD OUR WEDDING BROCHURE Broadoaks Country House is the award-winning fairytale venue set within seven acres of beautifully landscaped grounds in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Romantic, unique and welcoming, this traditional Lakeland building offers grandeur on a human scale. Every inch a home, but with all the modern luxuries of a 5-star boutique hotel, it’s the perfect venue for intimate weddings where you and your guests can enjoy exclusive use of the entire house and grounds. SAY YES TO AN ICONIC DESTINATION FROM JUST £2,999 Broadoaks Country House, Bridge Lane, Windermere LA23 1LA BOOK A PRIVATE VENUE TOUR: BROADOAKSCOUNTRYHOUSE.CO.UK/TOUR OR CALL US ON 015394 45566 Photography credits: Main, bottom left & bottom middle-right by Jaye-Peg Photography. Bottom middle-left by David Goodier and Decor by Purple Swan. Bottom right by James Hicks. Lake District Exclusive Use EXPLORE THE MAGIC OF BROADOAKS & DOWNLOAD OUR WEDDING BROCHURE Broadoaks Country House is the award-winning fairytale venue set within seven acres of beautifully landscaped grounds in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Romantic, unique and welcoming, this traditional Lakeland building offers grandeur on a human scale. Every inch a home, but with all the modern luxuries of a 5-star boutique hotel, it’s the perfect venue for intimate weddings where you and your guests can enjoy exclusive use of the entire house and grounds. SAY YES TO AN ICONIC DESTINATION FROM JUST £2,999 Broadoaks Country House, Bridge Lane, Windermere LA23 1LA BOOK A PRIVATE VENUE TOUR: BROADOAKSCOUNTRYHOUSE.CO.UK/TOUR OR CALL US ON 015394 45566 Photography credits: Main, bottom left & bottom middle-right by Jaye-Peg Photography. Bottom middle-left by David Goodier and Decor by Purple Swan. Bottom right by James Hicks.
The best part of the year is nally upon us! It’s not quite the madness of Christmas but the festive spirit is certainly building, and we’ve still got so much to look forward to. It’s the time of year where the sun has gone back into hiding and we are nding ourselves getting home from work in the dark! But what does this time of year mean for weddings? If you want the autumn feel at your wedding but don’t want to sacri ce tradition by going all-out Halloween-vibes, perhaps you could make some small swaps? Like mini squashes on your table displays, a spiced cake, or jewel-coloured autumn leaves integrated into your décor. No matter how you wish to blend this time of year into your big day, you can always relish in the cosy atmosphere that will surround your wedding. You may not have the big outdoor party like you’ve seen all over your Instagram this summer, but you can guarantee a comforting aesthetic full of texture, fragrance, colour and indulgence, think pumpkin-spiced lattes and marshmallows around the re – we’re in! Stay warm, see you next issue! Danielle Harvey, managing editor ‘Tis the season Dan Your North West 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 re ect those of the publisher. Your North West Wedding is published six times a year. ISSN 2392-2802 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 Managing Editor Danielle Harvey | 01376 535 611 danielle.harvey@county.wedding ADVERTISING Account Manager Chelsie Smith | 01376 538 560 chelsie.smith@county.wedding On the cover This issue’s front cover has been sponsored by Broadoaks Country House (broadoakscountryhouse. co.uk). Located in the heart of the Lake District, between Windermere and Ambleside, Broadoaks occupies one of the most beautiful spots in the central lakes area. Boasting Edwardian architecture and contemporary charm, it’s licensed for ceremonies both inside and outside with 20 bedrooms including a grand honeymoon Retreat. This image is of Laura and Kirsty on their wedding day and was taken by Jaye-Peg Photography (jayepeg.co.uk) Steal the style oliverbonas.com johnlewis.com tkmaxx.com accessorize.com deichmann.com Bridal look from Fairytale Fashion on page 56! Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com @CountyWeddingMagazines @countyweddingmagazines @countyweddingmagazines EDITOR’S LETTER 3
Regulars 3 EDITOR’S LETTER A hello from your editor 6 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the region In this issue... OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2025 Venues 9 GOING LOCAL Tie the knot in a local hotspot in Greater Manchester COMPETITION Win a lakeside mini-moon in the Brecon Beacons Features 29 TUSCANY IN LANCASHIRE Who needs Italy when you’ve got olive branches, lemons, and a little bit of Lancashire sunshine? 34 BLOOMIN’ MARVELLOUS Dive into the history behind wedding day florals and how to pick your bunch 38 FINDING YOUR SEASON Seasonal inspiration for a unique wedding reception 71 ZODIAC BRIDES Could your star sign help you plan your dream wedding? Here, we uncover your true desires 75 PICTURE THIS Choosing the right photography style to suit your wedding Win 89 11 75 40 4
Real weddings 15 TANDEM LOVE Hayley and John’s wedding at Town Head Estate was full of sentimental touches and wheelie good features 22 SWIPE ME OFF MY FEET Simple, elegant and colourful underlined Amy and Tony’s wedding at Eaves Hall Honeymoons 82 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 84 MAKE IT THE MALDIVES Visiting the most sought-after honeymoon destination 86 PHUN TIMES IN PHUKET A twin-centre trip to Thailand’s capital and its largest island ticks every box Fashion & Beauty 40 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with the latest must-haves 42 HAIR-DO HACKS With a bit of prep and the right guidance, you’ll look stunning feel confident, and be ready to say ‘I do’ – celebrity hairdresser Melissa Timperley tells us how 44 TAN TRUTHS Top dermatology experts caution against the latest tanning trends 46 QUEEN BEE Queen’s facialist, Deborah Mitchell, renowned for her bee venom facials, has some bridal skincare advice you won’t want to miss 51 HOT STUFF We paid a visit to Wild Spa Wowo to meet founder Katie Bracher and find out more about the sauna practice revolution quietly sweeping the UK 56 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 57 MAKE AN ENTRANCE This line-up of aisle-approved dresses are perfect for a fun, fairytale-inspired celebration 63 STANDOUT SLEEVES These gorgeous gowns from the new 2026 bridal collections are all about making a statement 66 LEADING LADY These new-season pieces in rich jewel shades will dress the mother figure in your life 68 STEAL THE STYLE You’ve chosen the perfect people for the role; here are some top tips on how to make them look the part 22 15 80 Grooms 79 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 80 SUITED AND BOOTED Step one, pick a look, step two, rock it! 82 CONTENTS 5
Hotels coming out on top New data reveals hotels have emerged as the most popular venue for weddings in the UK. Responding to a surge in demand Hyatt Hotels, including Manchester, Stratford and Heathrow, has reported a significant uptake in wedding bookings, and has launched a new range of wedding packages designed to break with tradition and appeal to the modern, cosmopolitan couple. Hyatt Manchester now offers the new Twilight Package, removing the wedding breakfast and cutting out the speeches, it goes from an evening ceremony straight to the party. The package includes an evening ceremony on the hotel’s 18th-floor with skyline views across Manchester, followed by a grazingstyle feast and late-night reception. Visit hyatt.com to explore wedding packages or make a booking. New offer Skelmersdale-based Holland Hall has a special offer for couples looking to tie the knot in the area! For all new bookings on remaining dates from now until May 2026, celebrate your wedding and reception at Holland Hall at a specially reduced cost starting from £2,995*. The price includes everything you need for fifty guests attending the entire wedding day, available from 2pm any day. Romantic, charismatic and distinctive, the perfect venue for all seasons, take advantage of the venue’s last-minute availability. Find out more: hollandhall.co.uk/the-whywait-package-special-offer THE UK’S BIGGEST WEDDING SHOW IS RETURNING TO MANCHESTER For the first time in five years, The National Wedding Show makes its much anticipated return to Manchester Central on 25th to 26th October 2025, bringing with it an exciting new initiative: The Hive – a handpicked collective of the North West’s most creative and trusted wedding suppliers. Curated by The National Wedding Show team, The Hive champions the very best the region has to offer; from bespoke signage and artisan bridalwear to iconic venues and emotive photography. Visit nationalweddingshow.co.uk NEWS Nearlywed All the latest from around the region 6
A ‘suite’ Autumn break Take a break from the wedmin and enjoy a luxurious break at Storrs Hall, Cumbria. Surrounded by woodland, the Lakeside Suites are vast in size, just metres from the waters of Windermere, and come complete with private terrace and Japanese-style cedar wood hot tub, plus loungers and blankets – perfect for enjoying the breathtaking lake views in comfort and privacy. Designed with relaxation in mind, the suites are a contemporary contrast to the Georgian charm of the main house, providing seclusion while maintaining access to the hotel’s renowned services and dining. Guests can order everything from hot chocolates and cocktails for al-fresco evening drinks, to hamper breakfasts and decadent dinners – all to the accomodation! A host of activities on and around the lake can be arranged to, from guided paddleboarding to clay pigeon shooting – and some of the Lake District’s best walking and cycling routes are nearby! An autumn stay in a Lakeside Suite costs from £469 per night including breakfast and arrival treats. To find out more please visit storrshall.com TWO NEW RITUALS STORES COMING TO MANCHESTER Rituals is expanding in Greater Manchester with the opening of its new stores in Altrincham and another at Manchester Airport. Both stores offer an immersive experience into Rituals’ signature range of luxurious bath, body, and home products, designed to inspire moments of mindfulness and self-care in everyday life. These openings mark a significant step in the brand’s continued investment and growth in Manchester, bringing Rituals’ unique philosophy to an even wider audience in the region. Located in the heart of Altrincham, the new Stamford Quarter store will reflect Rituals’ sensorial and holistic retail concept, designed to engage customers through rich storytelling and wellness-focused experiences. For travellers seeking a serene sanctuary, the new store in Manchester Airport Terminal 2, offers a full range of Rituals’ products, including the brand’s signature Amsterdam Collection. The store will feature its signature travel retail design, creating a consistent and immersive experience that invites guests to slow down and reconnect with themselves amid the bustle of travel. For more information, please visit rituals.com BOTTOMS’ UP Cumbria-based Jennings Brewery has reopened its doors, bringing back historic, award-winning beers, two new beers, and a new onsite taproom. The brewery has pledged to return to its roots, reviving old favourites like Sneck Lifter and Cocker Hoop, alongside new additions such as Derwent Mild and Back Yam – a nod to the Cumbrian dialect phrase meaning ‘back home’. While orders for the beer are already being taken, development of the historic site will continue apace, with plans for an expanded taproom, a distillery, short- and long-term office space, and workshops for local tradespeople – perhaps even a hotel in the future. Newly appointed head brewer Buster Grant is also relishing the opportunity to bring Jennings back to life. “It’s amazing to be part of Jennings and to be working in this historic site. The beers are iconic symbols of the Lakes, and I’m hugely proud to be able to add to this wonderful history and legacy.” Visit jenningsbrewery.co.uk LATEST NEWS 7
A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Lancashire Nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens and the rolling Lancashire countryside, Barton Manor Hotel & Spa offers couples an effortlessly elegant setting to say “I do.” With a blend of timeless charm and modern sophistication, Our venue is designed to host weddings as unique as the couples who celebrate them. From your very first visit, the team at Barton Manor takes pride in offering a warm welcome and meticulous attention to detail — ensuring your wedding is not just memorable, but truly unforgettable. Whether you’re envisioning an indoor ceremony full of grandeur or a romantic outdoor exchange of vows, Barton Manor has the perfect space to match your dream. The exclusive Barton Suite offers elegance and intimacy, while the beautiful Wedding Pavilion, surrounded by manicured gardens, provides a magical backdrop for open-air “I do’s.” Newlyweds and their guests are invited to continue the celebrations in style at the hotel’s latest addition — the Palazzo. This stunning indoor-outdoor venue is ideal for arrival drinks, canapés, and photographs, no matter the season. Its sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere transitions seamlessly from day to night. As the sun sets, enjoy your wedding breakfast and evening reception in the Barton Suite, where ambient lighting, a grand piano, and refined interiors set the stage for a night of celebration, music, and memories. With 103 individually styled bedrooms, Barton Manor ensures every guest enjoys a restful and luxurious stay. As part of the wedding package, couples are treated to complimentary use of the Bridal Suite — the perfect place to unwind after the festivities and enjoy a Full English breakfast the following morning. Every couple is supported by Barton Manor’s dedicated wedding team, on hand to guide you through every detail — from your initial viewing to the final farewell. Their experience, warmth, and creativity ensure that every element of your celebration runs smoothly and reflects your personal style. Plan your perfect day at Barton Manor Hotel & Spa — where elegance, service, and scenery come together to create something truly special. Barton Manor hotel and spa 746 - 768 Garstang Road, Barton, Preston PR3 5AA T: 01772 862551 E: Sales@bartonmanorhotel.co.uk www.bartonmanorhotel.co.uk Plan Your Perfect Day at Barton Manor Hotel & Spa
If you don’t fancy tying the knot in the city, here’s a guide to what’s nearby! B olton BOLTON MASONIC HALL Institute Street, BL1 1PZ 01204 525 711 boltonmasonichall.co.uk BOLTON SCHOOL Chorley New Road, BL1 4PA 01204 434 795 boltonschoolevents.com BRITANNIA BOLTON HOTEL Beaumont Road, BL3 4TA 01204 855 500 britanniahotels.com BROOKFIELD HALL Peel Street, Westhoughton, BL5 3SP 01942 813 125 brookfieldhall.co.uk BOLTON STADIUM HOTEL De Haviland Way, BL6 6SF 01204 673 610 boltonstadiumhotel.co.uk LAST DROP VILLAGE HOTEL AND SPA Hospital Road, Bromley Cross, BL7 9PZ 01204 591 131 lastdropvillage.co.uk LITTLE BOLTON TOWN HALL St Georges Street, BL1 2EN 01204 322 514 littleboltontownhall.com MERCURE BOLTON GEORGIAN HOUSE HOTEL Manchester Road, Blackrod, BL6 5RU 01942 814 598 mercurebolton.co.uk THE ALBERT HALLS Victoria Square, BL1 1RU 01204 522 311 alberthalls-bolton.co.uk THE HAWTHORNS Blackrod Bypass, Blackrod, BL6 5HX 01257 822 100 thehawthornsvenue.co.uk THE HOLIDAY INN BOLTON Higher Bridge Street, BL1 2EW 01204 879 988 ihg.com Bury BURY MASONIC HALL Parsons Lane, BL9 0LY 0161 761 5980 burymasonichall.co.uk EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY Ramsbottom Station, Ramsbottom, BL0 9AL 0161 764 7790 eastlancsrailway.org.uk FAIRWAYS LODGE AND LEISURE CLUB George Street, Prestwich, M25 9WS 0161 798 8905 thefairwayslodge.com FUSILIER MUSEUM Moss Street, BL9 0DF 0161 763 8950 fusiliermuseum.com RED HALL HOTEL Manchester Road, BL9 5NA 08717 144 057 red-hall.co.uk THE BOLHOLT COUNTRY PARK HOTEL Walshaw Road, BL8 1PU 0161 764 5239 bw-bolholtcountryparkhotel.co.uk THE ELIZABETHAN SUITE Town Hall, kKnowsley Street, BL9 OSW 0161 253 6026 bury.gov.uk THE OLD MILL Springwood, Ramsbottom, BL0 9DS 01706 822 991 lavenderhotels.co.uk STABLES COUNTRY CLUB Walshaw Road, BL8 1PU 0161 762 4000 stables.lavenderhotels.co.uk Oldham BILLINGTONS OLDHAM 3 Ascroft Street, OL1 1HY 07375 046 666 billingtonsoldham.co.uk ORDSALL HALL MUSEUM GREATER MANCHESTER LOCAL VENUES 9
SMOKIES CHADDERTON TOWN HALL Middleton Road, Chadderton, OL9 6PP 0161 911 4071 oldham.gov.uk SADDLEWORTH PARISH COUNCIL Civic Hall, Lee Street, Uppermill, OL3 6AE 01457 876 665 saddleworthparishcouncil.org.uk GEORGE STREET CHAPEL 58 George Street, OL1 1LS 0161 622 9264 ageuk.org.uk/oldham GRAINS BAR HOTEL Oldham Road, OL1 4SX 0161 624 0303 grainsbarhotel.co.uk SMOKIES PARK HOTEL Ashton Road, Bardsley, Ashton Under Lyne, OL8 3HX 0161 785 5000 smokies.co.uk SADDLEWORTH HOTEL Huddersfield Road, Delph, Saddleworth, OL3 5LX 01457 871 888 saddleworthhotel.co.uk STABLES WEDDING FARM Slackfield Farm, Knott Hill Lane, Delph, OL3 5RJ 07790 849 335 stablesweddingfarm.co.uk THE WHITE HART AT LYDGATE Stockport Road, Lydgate, OL4 4JJ 01457 872 566 thewhitehart.co.uk VICTORIA HOTEL HOLLINWOOD AVENUE Chadderton, OL9 8DE 0161 682 7254 thevictoriamanchester.com Rochdale BELLA VISTA RISTORANTE Wildhouse Lane, Milnrow, OL16 3JW 01706 342 479 sanrocco.co.uk/bellavista BROADFIELD PARK HOTEL Sparrow Hill, OL16 1AF 01706 639 000 broadfieldparkhotel.co.uk MERCURE NORTON GRANGE HOTEL AND SPA Manchester Road, Castleton, OL11 2XZ 01706 630 788 nortongrangehotel.com/weddings ROCHDALE CRICKET AND SQUASH CLUB Lacross Redbrook, Bridgefold Road, OL11 5BX 01706 636 343 rochdaleclsclub.com ROCHDALE TOWN HALL The Esplanade, OL16 1AB 01706 924 797 rochdaletownhall.co.uk THE BIRCH HOTEL Manchester Road, Heywood, OL10 2QD 01706 366 137 thebirchhotel.com THE OLD SCHOOL ROOMS Middleton, Edgar Wood Centre, Long Street, M24 6UN 07940 292 222 THE ROYAL TOBY HOTEL Manchester Road, Castleton, OL11 3HF 01706 861 861 theroyaltobyhotel.co.uk VILLAGE HOTEL MANCHESTER Waterfold Business Park Bury Rochdale Road, BL9 7BQ 0161 762 6061 village-hotels.co.uk Stockport THE CROWN (HAWK GREEN) 1 Hawk Green Road, Marple, SK6 7HU crownhawkgreen.pub THE DEANWATER HOTEL Wilmslow Road, Woodford, SK7 1RJ 01625 522 906 thedeanwaterhotel.co.uk THE PLAZA, STOCKPORT Mersey Square, SK1 1SP 0161 477 7779 stockportplaza.co.uk THE SAVOY CINEMA 105 Heaton Moor Road, SK4 4HY 0161 432 2114 savoycinemaheatonmoor.com THE VILLAGE HOTEL MANCHESTER CHEADLE Cheadle Road, Cheadle, SK8 1HW 0161 674 0160 village-hotels.co.uk/manchester-cheadle 10
SMOKIES TOWN HALL Stockport, SK1 3XE 0161 217 6007 stockport.gov.uk VILLAGE POINT 35 Heaton Moor Road, Heaton Moor, SK4 4PB 0161 414 1200 villagepoint.co.uk Salford AC HOTEL SALFORD QUAYS 17-19 Trafford Road, Salford Quays M5 3AW 0161 876 5305 Ramada.co.uk AJ BELL STADIUM 1 Stadium Way, Eccles, M30 7EY 0161 786 1570 salfordcitystadium.com ALBERT`S - WORSLEY East Lancashire Road, Swinton Salford, M27 0AA 0161 728 2791 thecastlefieldrooms.com BUILE HILL PARK HALL Eccles Old Road, Salford, M6 8GL 0161 793 3670 salford.gov.uk/builehillhall.htm COPTHORNE MANCHESTER Clippers Quay, Salford Quays, M50 3SN 0161 873 7321 millenniumhotels.com DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT WORSLEY PARK COUNTRY CLUB Walkden Road, Worsley, Manchester M28 2QT 0161 975 2000 marriott.com ECCLES MASONIC HALL 46 Half Edge Lane, Eccles, M30 9BA 0161 789 3736 elm-bank.co.uk/eccles FIVEFOURSTUDIOS LTD 54 Oldfield Road, Salford, M5 4LZ 0161 737 7341 fivefourstudios.com HEMSLEY HOUSE 41 Crescent, Salford, M5 4PE 0161 736 4627 hemsley-house.co.uk LOWRY HOTEL 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf Salford, M3 5LH 0161 827 4000 thelowryhotel.com MONTON SPORTS CLUB Welbeck Road, Eccles, M30 7EH 0161 789 0377 montonsportsclub.co.uk NOVOTEL MANCHESTER WEST Worsley Brow, Worsley, M28 2YA 0161 729 0029 novotel.com ORDSALL HALL MUSEUM 322 Ordsall Lane Salford, M5 3AN 0161 686 7440 ordsallhall.com RAMADA MANCHESTER SALFORD QUAYS 17 Trafford Road, Salford, M5 3AW 0161 876 5305 wyndhamhotels.com/en-uk/ramada SALFORD LADS CLUB Coronation Street, Salford, M5 3SA 0161 872 3767 salfordladsclub.org.uk SWINTON MASONIC HALL Hospital Road, Pendlebury, Swinton, M27 4EY 0161 794 5377 swintonmasonichall.com THE BLACK FRIAR 41-43 Blackfriars Road, Salford M3 7DB 0161 667 9555 theblackfriarsalford.co.uk THE COURT HOUSE , WORSLEY BARTON ROAD, WORSLEY, M28 2PB 0161 737 6277 venuesinsalford.co.uk/venues/the-courthouse-worsley THE DECK 747 Tauras Hanger, City Airport, Barton, M30 7SA 07940 526 830 thedeck747.com LOCAL VENUES 11
WEDDINGS AT THE DUNES HOTEL A Wedding as Unique as Your Love Story THE DUNES HOTEL, ROANHEAD BEACH, SOUTH LAKES, CUMBRIA, LA14 4QW Scan the QR code to visit our website, or get in touch with the below details: WWW.SOUTHLAKESWEDDINGS.CO.UK 01229 461200 | EVENTS@THEDUNESHOTEL.CO.UK PHOTO CREDIT: STEPHEN MCGOWAN: WWW.MCGOWANWEDDINGS.CO.UK
The Dunes Hotel blends contemporary elegance with a welcoming charm Set in the heart of the Cumbrian coastline, The Dunes Hotel is surrounded by picturesque countryside and rolling greenery. The landscaped grounds provide a serene backdrop for photographs, with open spaces perfect for drinks receptions or quiet moments. Nearby, scenic coastlines at Roanhead Beach add to the romantic atmosphere, ensuring couples and their guests enjoy a tranquil yet memorable setting. The hotel boasts a sleek, modern exterior with a timeless appeal, framed by the natural beauty of its Cumbrian setting. Large windows flood the building with light and offer striking views of the surrounding landscape. The outside area is both impressive and inviting, creating the perfect first impression for guests arriving to celebrate. Its stylish façade blends seamlessly with its countryside charm. Inside, you’ll find stylishly decorated areas with soft, neutral tones complemented by chic lighting and modern furnishings. Spacious function rooms create the perfect setting for weddings, while the Coast Bar & Restaurant offers a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Every detail inside the hotel feels fresh, refined, and designed for unforgettable celebrations. When tying the knot here, ceremonies take place in three settings; The Terrace Room, a bright, modern space with elegant décor and large windows overlooking the grounds (it can host up to 70 guests); The Hawthwaite Suite, a large, spacious room complete with a draped roof and wall with added lights to transform the room to an elegant and classy atmosphere, can host up to 100 guests; or for those looking for an al fresco setting, the Courtyard is a popular choice in the summer months, surrounded by greenery and the countryside vibes, perfect for a summer wedding of up to 100 loved ones. Post-vows, The Hawthwaite Suite can host up to 100 attendees, complete with round tables and a top table for the wedding breakfast and transformed into the perfect space for your evening do (for 120). The Terrace Room, is ideal for an intimate gathering of up 40 loved ones. Couples and their guests can also enjoy the Champagne Room, and also the stylish Coast Bar & Restaurant with an extensive food selection and a wellpresented bar. All packages include an overnight stay in the bridal suite on the night of the wedding, with an invitation to come back for their first anniversary at a reduced rate. The Dunes Hotel 01229 4612 00 southlakesweddings.co.uk A scenic setting Images courtesy of mcgowanweddings.co.uk VENUES 13
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE WITH THE UK’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT TRAVEL AGENT The UK’S biggest selection of honeymoons Book with the experts Say “I do” to new adventures Scan to find your local North Wales branch Travel Money We’ve got it covered! It’s so much more than just a treatment Enjoy looking your best—and experience the ultimate relaxation 07855 045 576 • hello@essencecumbria.co.uk www.essencecumbria.co.uk 109-111 Senhouse Street, Maryport, Cumbria CA15 6BU
Tandem Love Hayley and John’s wedding at Town Head Estate was full of sentimental touches and wheelie good features Images courtesy of Ladybirds Photography REAL WEDDINGS 15
Hayley and John met at the Chorley Cycling Club in November 2016 – starting what would be a glorious love story on wheels. Hayley recalls, “We bonded over our mutual love of bikes in the sunshine before our relationship started – something that we still have in common today!” When it came to popping the question, John had it all figured out. He asked Hayley to marry him during a weekend break to London, where he also added a surprise trip to a jewellery maker to seal the deal. Town Head Estate in the Lake District is where Hayley and John would pedal into forever and the venue was full of romantic features. Hayley adds, “The feel of the place, the team members we met on our first visit, the blank canvas possibilities, and their drive to deliver the dream – oh and the beauty room! – it was all just perfect.” Sentiment was laced throughout their wedding day, with meaningful touches and a surprise poem from the bride, which ended in a phrase they had adopted as their relationship tag line ‘together we will go far’. This couple kept things on-trend for their celebrations with some signature cocktails and well-placed ivy throughout the venue. Along with their shared love for cycling, Hayley and 16
John are musical theatre buffs and wanted this represented on the day. Hayley adds, “The theme was threaded into the acoustic ceremony music, a flash mob with singer after dinner, and the fireworks were choreographed to songs from The Greatest Showman!” With the musical drama, Hayley and John set the scene with a literal floral centrestage where they would make their vows, foliage including flowers and herbs for an immersive experience could be seen running down the stairs guests used, and even floral collars for their perfect pooches, Pepper and Ivy. This impressive display of romance continued into the reception room, which carried a soft colour palette with caramel-tones, ivory, green and brass; all accentuated with drapes hanging from the barn beams and chandeliers – wow! Hayley wore a stunning bespoke version of the Suzanne Neville Caccini gown from the Symphony Collection. “I had an appointment with Suzanne herself as I couldn’t find a neckline that I was comfortable in. I loved the gown but wanted a different neckline; as soon as I described what I was uncomfortable with Suzanne knew exactly what to do.” Hayley teamed it with a Richard Designs ivory ribbon-edge two-tier veil, Christian Louboutin Sporty Kate Nappa shoes in leche, and pearl drop earrings. John wore a bespoke three-piece suit, paired with pale blush tie, silver coloured pocket watch and chain, and Christian Louboutin Greggo Oxford shoes in brown. The groomsmen wore John Francis blue suits, while the bridesmaids wore Sorella Vita dresses in a colour called Bellini and were formal one-shoulder floor-length dresses. REAL WEDDINGS 17
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A beautifully unique wedding venue in the Lake District www.townheadestate.com Set in 130 acres of private parkland, ancient woods and Lakeland fell, Town Head Estate offers the most breathtaking location for your wedding day. This family-owned venue offers exclusive hire, and with half a mile of unspoilt Lake Windermere shoreline, it provides a magical setting unlike any other. At Town Head, you have the freedom to create your dream day. You could opt for an elegant wedding in the gorgeously renovated Wedding Barn, with its abundance of original features and flooded with natural light. Alternatively, you could immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings with an outdoor ceremony on the Lake View Terrace, in the Orchard, or even in the gorgeously romantic Boat House on the shores of the Lake itself. Town Head offers luxury accommodation to sleep 22, split between three beautifully stylish cottages and the East Wing of the main house, together with a fabulous Beauty Room for the all important morning of the wedding preparations. Paddleboards, a vintage Land Rover, golf buggy and a dedicated coordination team are all here to help you create your perfect day. WE ARE STRING INFUSION Every part of your chosen entertainment is carefully planned with our team. 1. You have a dedicated point of contact from your initial enquiry who will work with you on every aspect of your event. 2. We discuss your venue, logistics, performance times and variety of performers to choose from. 3. Guidance on music choices according to your audience numbers, age groups and music taste. 4. We liaise with your venue coordinators and technical teams to ensure a seamless production. 5. Discuss costumes and specific colours to compliment any themes youhave. 6.We are one call or meeting away from any questions you have. Personalised Bespoke Packages Detailed Planning Service @stringinfusion QUALITY DAYTIME AND EVENING ENTERTAINMENT Weddings / Private Functions / Sports Events / Corporate Events / Award Ceremonies... We offer acoustic and electric string ensembles (including Harp), small orchestral settings, saxophonists, percussionists, pianists, vocalists, DJs and DJ live sets. Everything from background music to high energy choreographed performances. We pride ourselves in providing the highest quality musicians and personalised service from start to finish. Our combinations offer a uniqueness, setting us apart from others, together with a vast and diverse repertoire to choose from. We collaborate with production companies and offer spectacular shows and create moments people never forget. Whatever your event, String Infusion offers a first class musical experience that creates the exact atmosphere every client deserves. We build the most bespoke package tailored to your event. Detailed Planning Service Email: enquiries@stringinfusion.com Mobile: 07590 489940 To secure your entertainment, contact us:
Policy Terms and Conditions apply. Wedinsure is a trading name of Insuremore Ltd. Registered Office: 282 Leigh Rd, Leigh on Sea, Essex SS9 1BW. Registered in England No. 10525133. Insuremore Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 824996. Winner 2024 Best wedding insurance provider Prices from just £38.99 one-off payment Say ‘I do’ to wedding insurance Financial protection for weddings up to £100,000 Cancellation and rearrangement Financial failure of wedding services suppliers £2m personal liability included as standard Additional cover for Public Liability, COVID-19, Overseas Weddings, Marquee and more www.wedinsure.co.uk LUXURIOUS 4* VENUE | 14 ACRES OF GARDENS & WOODLANDS | AWARD WINNING TEAM CHOICE OF CEREMONY & RECEPTION SUITES FROM 2-250 GUESTS | 99 BEDROOMS | LEISURE CLUB Your happily ever after...our part in your love story Call our Dream Makers on 01539 734000 E-mail weddings@castlegreen.co.uk Visit www.castlegreenhotel.co.uk to find details about our next wedding open days
HAYLEY AND JOHN’S SUPPLIER LIST Venue, Town Head Estate, townheadestate.com | Photographer, Ladybirds Photography, ladybirdsphotography.com | Bride’s dress, Suzanne Neville Altrincham, suzanneneville.com | Groom’s suit, Edit Suits Co, editsuits.com | Hair stylist and makeup, Hair and Makeup by Heather C, weddinghairandmakeup.co.uk Bridesmaids’ dresses, Dreamcatcher Bridal, dreamcatcherbridal.co.uk | Groomsmen attire, John Francis Suit Hire, john-francis.com | Cake, Gracious Cakes UK, @gracious_cakes_24 | Flowers, Flower Design Events, flowerdesign.co.uk | Stationery, Jellypress, jellypress.co.uk | Entertainment, String Fusion, stringinfusion.com Singer, Naomi Murray, naomimurraymusic.com | Catering, Karen Rhodes Catering, karenrhodes.co.uk Venue dresser, Florence and Vera Events, florenceandvera.co.uk | Live artist, Liam Dickinson, liamdickinson.co.uk | Videographer, Kathryn Berry Films, kathrynberryfilms.com Firework display, The UK Firework Company, theukfireworkcompany.co.uk REAL WEDDINGS 21
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OFF MY FEET Swipe me Simple, elegant and colourful underlined Amy and Tony’s wedding at Eaves Hall Images courtesy of This is Richard Photography Like many, Amy and Tony met online and started their romance with the exchange of messages. They spent a short amount of time getting to know each other and jumped straight into the in-person dates. This blossomed into a lovely relationship, and it wasn’t long before Tony was ready to pop the question, but how did he do it? Tony’s grand plans to propose one weekend were scuppered a couple of times thanks to unexpectedly crowded areas – meaning the Williamson Park and Beacon Fell proposals went out the window. Here Amy tells us how Tony did end up popping the question, “I went into our bedroom, which had its door closed, and Tony was down on one knee! We had always spoken of marriage and so I thought I’d see it coming, but I was completely surprised... it was perfect!” When it came to picking their dream location, Amy and Tony wanted a venue that would speak to Tony’s Scottish heritage. Eaves Hall would lend itself naturally to the simple, elegant, and colourful theme this lovely couple were striving for. The intimate affair added a traditional glow within the classic rooms of Eaves Hall and left the couple with a timeless wedding album. To bring pops of colour to this elegant palette, Amy decided the flowers should look like she plucked them from a glorious field herself. The wildflower-feel paired with the traditional tartan offered a brilliant contrast and added lots of intrigue to the style of the day. When it came to big-day wardrobe, this well-dressed couple knew exactly how to wow a crowd. Amy opted for an elegant, satin-finished ballgown with a basque waistline and a sweetheart, strapless neckline. Tony matched this traditional energy with his kilt, a nod to his Scottish heritage. Tony’s best women were his two sisters who wore stunning sage-green dresses and Amy’s bridesmaids, ages ranging from eight to twelve, wore floral dresses to complement the pops of colour in the bride’s bouquet. They also had Tony’s nephew as the pageboy, who wore a matching kilt. As the ceremony didn’t start until four in the afternoon, Amy’s mum provided some light sandwich platters and fruit as a lunch for the nearlyweds. Amy adds, that after this her and Tony’s hunger and thirst went out the window, with their main focus being on the celebrations; they snacked throughout the reception and nibbled on their wedding breakfast, but ultimately, “ended the night with a glass of water in bed”, Amy recalled. For this lovely couple, they shared a favourite moment, and it was when they were back together after not seeing each other all morning – how sweet! They also shared their relief in the ceremony being over as it not only signified the end of the official stuff, but it also meant they could reconnect after what was already a hectic day. Most brides like to impart pearls of wisdom to upcomingbrides and Amy has some classic comforting words to ease expectant couples into the day. She suggests that you should try to not sweat the small stuff, that everything will fall into place and if it goes wrong? It doesn’t matter because you’ll barely notice in the haze of love and excitement on the day. Amy adds, “I didn’t even notice the decoration in our ceremony room until we saw the wedding photos!” REAL WEDDINGS 23
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AMY AND TONY’S SUPPLIERS Venue, Eaves Hall, jamesplaces.com/eaves-hall | Photographer, This is Richard, thisisrichard.co.uk | Bride’s dress, Lulu Browns Bridal Boutique, lulu-browns.com | Groom’s kilt, MacGregor and MacDuff, macgregorandmacduff.co.uk | Hair stylist, Emily Simpson Bridal, emilysimpsonbridal.com | Makeup artist, Amy Lauren MUA, amylaurenmua.com | Bridesmaids’ and best women dresses, NEXT | Flowers, Ditsy and Daisy, ditsyanddaisy.com | Evening entertainment, The DFC Experience, thedfcexperience.co.uk | Venue stylist, Atmosphere Venue Dressing, atmospherevenuedressing.co.uk REAL WEDDINGS 27
WEDDING PACKAGES AVAILABLE FOR 2026 FROM £6745 The Great Hall Package – Marry any day of the week from January 2026 Includes; Civil ceremony room hire, Red or white aisle carpet, Chair covers with your choice of coloured sash, Flower arrangement for top table, Bucks fizz on arrival, Three course meal, Coffee with fudge, Glass of wine with the meal, Glass of sparkling wine to toast, Finger buffet, DJ, Honeymoon suite. For 50 daytime guests and 100 evening guests Extra guests can be added at an additional charge To arrange your viewing, contact us on 01695 567260 Visit www.lancashiremanorweddings.co.uk for further details LANCASHIRE MANOR HOTEL, PRESCOTT ROAD, PIMBO, NR WIGAN, LANCASHIRE, WN8 9QD Photography by Nigel Parkinson at Piconiq EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR VIEWINGS 10% OFF GREAT HALL AND SUNSET PACKAGES FOR EASTER WEEKEND
Tuscany in Who needs Italy when you’ve got olive branches, lemons, and a little bit of Lancashire sunshine? Images courtesy of George Foy Film LANCASHIRE LOCAL INSPO 29
At The River Barn the creators of this stunning styled shoot brought a slice of Tuscany to the North. Sonje from Sonje Jones Design Team shares her inspiration behind the concept, “We transformed the aisle with The River Barn’s amazing crossback chairs, organza bows, olive branches and a good helping of lemons (because nothing says ‘I do’ like a bit of citrus fruit). Foliage, roses, candles, and that little pop of yellow, made everything feel like a warm Italian breeze. “The ceremony space was framed with floaty organza, pampas grass and sunflowers, bold, breezy, and a little bit fabulous; while the wedding breakfast was banquet-style with long tables, foliage runners, candles, and ends styled with crates and Tuscan vases full of lemons. “The dessert table? A vintage cart piled high with an array of lemon cakes by Mel’s Cakes – dangerously good if we do say so! – and even pancakes courtesy of The Pancake Box for the sweet-toothed romantics. “Our bride Reah, dressed by Amelia’s Bridal, was a vision in two beautiful gowns, with flawless hair and makeup from OAH Hair & Makeup captured beautifully by George Foy Films around the barn and gardens. “Even the stationery (from Signed by Jen) brought it’s A-game, chic, elegant, and not a Comic Sans in sight!” Enjoy! 30
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THE COLLABORATIVE TEAM Concept and styling, Sonje Jones Design Team, sonjejones.co.uk, @sonjejonesdesignteam Venue, The River Barn, theriverbarn.co.uk, @riverbarnweddings Photography, George Foy Film, georgefoyfilms.com, @georgefoyfilms Bridalwear and accessories, Amelia’s Bridal Boutique, ameliasbrides.com, @ameliasbridal Hair and makeup, OAH Hair & Makeup, oahhairandmakeup.co.uk, @o.a.h_hair_and_makeup Cakes and desserts, Mel’s Cakes, melscakespreston.co.uk, @mels_cake_art Pancakes, The Pancake Box, instagram.com/thepancakeboxuk, @thepancakeboxuk Stationery, Signed By Jen, signedbyjen.co.uk, @signedbyjen Crockery and cutlery, Twelve Restaurant, twelve-restaurant.co.uk/event-management, @twelvethornton Media, Images by Kelly Jay Photography, @imagesbykellyjay Model, @reahbwills 32
AWARD WINNING | HIGH ENERGY | LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FOR YOUR WEDDING WWW.OCEANVIEWPARTYBAND.CO.UK We absolutely love turning your wedding dreams into a reality!! With over 30 years experience in wedding owers we provide everything from Beautiful Bridal bouquets and Buttonholes to Gorgeous centrepieces to stunning bespoke Archways. We pay extra attention to detail ensuring everything is perfect for your special day. Please contact Sonje for a brochure or an appointment. 07866 259558 • contact@thewedding orist.co.uk www.sonjejones.co.uk
Flowers are the unsung heroes of weddings and contribute a lot to the overall theme. Their delicate beauty speaks more than just breathtaking colours and shapes; they are rich in history and can send a very romantic message. Understanding your chosen blooms helps with the overall decision-making process. It all depends on whether you want to send a message with your florals or if you’re more focused on the colour story. We’ll unpack everything you need to know about big-day blooms and also help you pick the right florist. To appreciate flowers at a wedding, we should understand where they come from. Like most traditional celebrations, they are steeped in history and often come from humble beginnings. The history of flowers at weddings starts in ancient Greece and Rome. In Greece, the included florals were laurel wreathes and olive branches and symbolised peace, victory, and eternity. In ancient Rome, a more practical approach was taken, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme were used to protect the couple against evil spirits; encouraging fertility and good fortune. The history of wedding flowers THE BLOOM The detail’s in Dive into the history behind wedding day florals and how to pick your bunch unsplash.com.@hayffield unsplash.com.@rebeccamatthews 34
Moving onto the Middle Ages, the people of this time took inspiration from the Romans and were focused on natural remedies to protect the newlyweds, such as fresh herbs and flowers. They used strong-smelling herbs (including garlic) to ward off evil spirits; which was paired with the scattering of fresh blooms in front of the bride’s path to protect her. Progressing into the Victorian era, we have the introduction of floriography and the rise of flowers as romantic symbols at weddings. One of the most popular floral choices from brides in this time was orange blossom – this is because Victoria wore an orange blossom crown on her wedding day to Albert. Orange blossom represents purity, chastity, and eternal love; the perfect message to send on your wedding day. Other popular blooms included ivy, which represents fidelity and strong bonds, and lilies of the valley, representing happiness and humility. It’s at this point in floral history that we align ourselves most with the modern bouquet practises. Typically, people will focus more on the colour scheme of flowers, however, the beautiful language of blooms remains ever present in our selection. unsplash.com.@debrupas FLOWERS 35
GIVING THEM A SECOND LIFE After falling in love with the blooms on your wedding day, knowing they only last a few days is disappointing to say the least. However, there are many ways you can give your flowers a second life! If you look after your bouquet on the day, you can then have them either expertly dried and framed, or set in resin to make a keepsake. If you want to preserve them, there are a few things to consider on your wedding day. Avoid the bouquet toss, your flowers will be battered from the throw and the scramble to win them. If you want the ‘throwing the bouquet’ moment, then you’ll need to get a throw-away bunch made in preparation. You will also need to keep your bouquet in water as much as possible throughout the day, and to store it in a cool, dark room before shipping it to your chosen preserver. On the day of postage, seek advice on how to pack and choose the fastest delivery available to you. Alternatively, a lot of couples give out floral arrangements at the end of the celebrations for people to take home with them. This is a great option if you want to leave the venue as clear as possible at the end of the night, and they act as great mementos for loved ones. A lot of brides also chose to take the floral arrangements to elderly homes, even better if you have a relative staying there. You may also decide to drop the arrangements off to graves of loved ones who couldn’t be there on your special day. It’s a beautiful way to share the love and to recognise those you would have loved to invite. CHOOSING THE RIGHT FLORIST Now that you have an idea of what blooms you would like to feature at your wedding, the time has come to book a florist. With everything else in the wedding market, there is lots of overwhelming choice and it’s hard to know who the right person for the job is. Here are few tips to help you decide on who should get the honour of supplying blooms for your special day. Check out their socials: When you load up their Instagram or Facebook page, does their work excite you? Can you picture those bunches on your wedding day? If not, then they might not be the one for you; your taste could simply differ from theirs and that’s absolutely fine, but it’s back to the drawing board. Check the reviews: The best way to get an understanding of a business is to check the reviews. If they conduct themselves well, the reviews will speak for themselves. However, the odd bad review can be very quickly explained and shouldn’t be held against the suppler – if there are lots then perhaps take it as a sign and walk away. Discuss customisation: If you have a particular vision for your wedding flowers, don’t be afraid to speak up with your chosen supplier. However, you need to remain open to their advice and understand that not all blooms are available. Wedding blooms depend on varying factors, such as season and location. pexels.com.@Dmitry Zvolskiy 36
The Feel Good Florist is an award winning creative oristry workshop based in Greater Manchester. Celebrating nature with her signature creative and wild style, Nikita and her team work closely with couples to create romantic and whimsical designs. “We love getting to know our couples, from their choice of wedding venue to their pets names, it all contributes to the design process. Flowers are lled with personality and we love to make our weddings re ect this!” hello@thefeelgoodflorist.com www.thefeelgoodflorist.com CREATIVE FLORAL ARTISTRY The National Wedding Florist of the Year 2025 voted by TWIA The Wedding Industry Awards @staceyoliverphotos @emmabillsborough @mfarrisphoto Living plants create a real sense of magic! Rosedale Botanics use potted plants to create living displays; including their iconic foliage arches (pictured). Choose your favourite plant(s) from the display to take home and grow and bloom alongside your marriage. Whether you have a clear vision of what you’d like, or want creative direction, Rosie will create your dreamy green wedding! info@rosedalebotanics.co.uk www.instagram.com/rosedalebotanics www.rosedalebotanics.co.uk
YOUR SEASON FINDING Journalist Dakota Murphey offers seasonal inspiration for a unique wedding reception Whilst a summer wedding is traditionally considered the most popular time to tie the knot, there are many reasons why couples choose other seasons for their celebrations. For many, choosing a date comes down to a mix of budget, venue availability, work schedules and personal preferences. Whether you adore autumn’s vibrant colours, the blossoms of early spring, or heartwarming winter celebrations, each season has unique charms to inspire your wedding plans. From selecting sun-kissed summer cakes and bespoke gifts, to arranging autumnal barn dances or finding local caterers with seasonal produce; this guide helps you host a wedding for all the seasons. TIMING YOUR SPECIAL DAY While June to August is regarded as the peak months of the wedding calendar, couples today prefer to secure a date that works around their busy schedules. In 2023, 25% of couples opted for weddings in March, April, and May and 27% chose September to November. If you love the idea of marrying in autumn or winter, think about which wedding venues suit each season best (prior to booking anything). Ideally, view your desired venue in the season you’ll be booking it for – that way you can get a true feel for the potential vibe on the day. Understanding seasonal nuances allows you to plan a memorable reception! TAPPING INTO EXPERTS WITH SEASONED EXPERIENCE Increasingly, couples planning their weddings are recognising the benefits of professional support; with many turning to wedding planners to help them secure a standout occasion. Their experience managing countless celebrations for happy couples well-equips them to offer guidance through the process – assisting with trending wedding designs, and accommodating a small, large or distinct celebration. Similarly, wedding planners with specific seasonal experience prove invaluable; particularly for fine-tuning every detail, navigating last-minute challenges and contacting local suppliers. Ask about previous weddings they’ve coordinated and be confident describing your vision, however quirky or unusual it seems. For example, Matthew Shaw, founder and creative director at Sauveur, shares his inspiration on embracing the winter season, chuttersnap.com 38
MEET THE EXPERT Website: dakotamurphey.co.uk Email: dakota@dakotamurphey.co.uk saying, “If you are planning a January or February wedding, you will likely also be the first one of the year – which can be very exciting! From the food offering to design and dress code, there’s a lot of fun to be had!” A further source of inspiration can be gained by tapping into your wedding photographer’s wealth of knowledge – who will usually be happy to share insights, showcase portfolios, and suggest photogenic poses at specific locations and times. They can also offer advice on how to capture the essence of a season and the best natural or candid shots during your big day. Wedding photographer Gauthier le Guen, in an MPB interview, highlights how the four seasons contribute to the uniqueness of each occasion: “I also like the fact that each wedding is unique – the reception locations, the decorations and the atmosphere are always changing according to the seasons – so I never get tired of the job.” BALANCING AESTHETICS WITH PRACTICALITIES Weather will always be a major consideration when planning any celebration. Even in the height of summer, in late spring, and September’s elusive ‘Indian Summer’ – there’s no guarantee of blue skies and hours of sunshine. With a wedding planner and photographer on side, your wedding plans will remain a careful balancing act. Whatever the month, you’ll need to take into account weather forecasts, budgets, guest experiences, catering, and table plans to name a few. For instance, remain flexible with indoor-outdoor options if you want a photo booth, a marquee or wanting to stage an incredible firework display. INSPIRING IDEAS FOR THE FOUR SEASONS When you think of spring, renewal and fresh beginnings come to mind – the perfect symbolism for a wedding. You might want to create a theme based on natural colours for wedding favours, flowers, music, food and drink all associated with this time of year. Consider soft pastels for bridal wear; additionally, table decorations featuring tulips or daffodils, and spring colours depict delicate beauty. Summer weddings promise longer days, ample natural light for photography, and elegant outdoor receptions in country gardens. Consider acoustic live music that can transition from daytime celebrations to evening dancing under the stars. Autumn can offer the most spectacular backdrop at weddings with rich burgundy, burnt orange, and deep forest green giving venues a dramatic décor. Venue lighting becomes particularly important – amber uplighting and lots of candles enhance a warm glow befitting the time of year. However, winter weddings possess a magical quality unlike any other season. Transform reception spaces with fairylights, crystal elements, and white florals for an enchanted atmosphere. Venues with fireplaces become particularly coveted, offering both cosy warmth and ambiance. Winter bridal fashion allows for luxurious fabrics like satin and faux fur wraps. Festive catering options will likely feature mulled wine, rich chocolate desserts, and hearty main courses to warm guests. Whichever county you’re looking forward to marrying in, every season brings a diversity of colours, fresh flowers and home-grown produce to make a wedding unique. Whether you envisage a fairytale mid-summer event or an idyllic snowy winter affair, your wedding reception will be an enchanting fusion of that season’s natural beauty and personal style. unsplash.com.@mutecevvil Unsplash.com.@julie_soul unsplash.com.@claitonconto 39
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