£3.55 JUL/AUG 2025 YORKSHIREWEDDING WONDERLAND Get the look with today’s top venue styling trends Handy HACKS We turn to TikTok for some top tips RED-CARPET ready Glamorous gowns fit for Hollywood’s elite Wedding LET THEM EAT CAKE! Big-day bake inspiration HONEYMOON MOMENTS Cancun, Italy and the Rhine
REGULARS 7 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Kelly 9 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the county 86 COMPETITION Win a luxury mid-week break for two at the Gainsborough Bath Spa worth £1,250 VENUES 13 SPOTLIGHT ON... SOUTH YORKSHIRE Tie the knot in a local hotspot CONTENTS JULY/AUGUST 2025 On the cover This issue’s cover was captured by Sophie WJ Photography (sophiewjphotography.com) at Sheffield’s Whirlow Brook Hall (whirlowbrook.co.uk). Don’t miss the full shoot from page 27. 32 16 FEATURES 27 MODERN WHIMSY This talented team of female, Yorkshire-based wedding aficionados created a wonderful, romantic, whimsical shoot painted in pretty pastels 32 LET THEM EAT CAKE! If you’re not sure to start with your big-day bake or indeed whether you even want one read on for some food for thought 36 WEDDING WONDERLAND We delve in the world of venue styling trends taking weddings by storm in 2025 40 UNCONVENTIONAL WEDDING HACKS TikTok creator, Anna Konstantopoulos, who runs the page @unseenandbelieved, created a viral video for users to reveal their innovative wedding hacks 42 WEDDING GUEST ETIQUETTE Wedding guest advice to help you avoid the classic blunders indyandgracephotography.co.uk Anita Austvika on Unsplash 72 3
REAL WEDDINGS 16 PICTURE PERFECT Charlotte and Matt’s “I dos” were the first in Temple Newsam’s’ glorious, newly available Picture Gallery location 22 A LITTLE BIT COUNTRY Star and Ben said “I do” at Bunny Hill on 8th June 2024 HONEYMOONS 76 HONEYMOON NEWS Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials 78 SAIL AWAY Experience the high life aboard a luxury river cruise along the Rhine 80 A HIDDEN GEM Take a moment to relax at the delightful Bush Hotel Farnham 81 THE MAGIC OF MERSEA ISLAND Rachel Westall enjoyed a stylish stay at The White Hart Inn, Essex’s best kept secret 82 AVA MOMENT IN MEXICO Richard Jones tells us all about his time at two all-inclusive heavens on the Yucatán Peninsula 84 EXPLORE ITALY From world-class accommodation to memorable excursions – here is your ultimate guide to honeymooning in Italy GROOMS 67 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 68 FAMOUS FIVE Here are five completely different looks – which one takes your fancy? 70 GET A WHIFF OF THAT Explore the hottest men’s fragrances on the market 71 GROOMSMEN GIFTING Find the perfect present for the man of the moment, fathers-of-the-bride and -groom, best men and ushers FASHION & BEAUTY 44 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 45 ROMANCE RUNNING WILD Add an ethereal touch with these bohemian styles 50 RED-CARPET READY These aisle-approved styles ooze Hollywoodinspired glamour 53 SUNSET DRESSING These pieces deserve a place in your honeymoon suitcase 54 100 DRESSES Searching for the one? Swoon over 100 of our favourite dresses sure to inspire your style – you’re welcome! 72 BEAUTY BUZZ Get the look with the latest must-haves 74 SKINCARE THROUGH THE AGES Experts reveal the best skincare treatments for every decade 75 FACE FACTS Five truths everyone should know about skincare 40 45 78 36 Curated Lifestyle on Unsplash © Christopher Warren Anita Austvika on Unsplash 4
Say “I do” to new adventures The UK’S biggest selection of honeymoons Book with the experts Travel Money We’ve got it covered! The nation’s favourite foreign exchange provider* BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE WITH THE UK’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT TRAVEL AGENT Scan to find your local Yorkshire & Humberside branch
Rise Hall is an award-winning East Yorkshire country house set within large gardens and grounds, with 31 stunning bedrooms, specialising in bespoke, exclusive weddings and events. Steeped in history and lovingly restored, the grand stately home offers a breath-taking backdrop for unforgettable celebrations. Rise Hall has a dining capacity of up to 180 guests and is licensed for civil and outdoor ceremonies. 0345 450 4545 • risehall@dine.co.uk www.facebook.com/risehallevents www.instagram.com/risehall www.risehall.com Rise Hall
86 WIN! Win a luxury mid-week break for two at the Gainsborough Bath Spa Worth £1,250 32 SWEET STACK If you’re not sold on the idea of a wedding cake, there are plenty of mouth-watering alternatives available from cheese cakes to macron towers. Yes, the summer is here! Finally... Is it me or does winter seem longer every year? As loyal readers will know, I’m a total winter bunny, but even I get a bit disheartened with the long nights and drizzle after a while. After all, there is a season. And what does summer mean? Altogether now – weddings! While it’s now truer than ever that every season is wedding season, it’s undeniable that summer is still the most popular pick. The weather can be somewhat more reliable, and this gorgeous county is looking its very best. For me summer speaks to lazing about with a picnic, barbecues, warm evenings enjoyed al fresco, and day trips with friends – it’s a vibe! If the same rings true for you, did you know these are all things you can include in your wedding day? When it comes to food, get creative and ditch the formal seating plan in favour of an informal setup with grazing feasts or a hearty barbecue served in your venue’s grounds. Indeed, we highly recommend opting for a venue with glorious gardens or super-cute courtyard with Med-style atmosphere at this time of year, purely because of the opportunities it affords you in terms of making the most of those long evenings. Think cosy firepits, blankets in case it does get a bit chilly, and heaps of charming festoon lighting. If you love nothing more than getting away for an adventure with friends, why not turn your wedding into a weekend away with your closest cohort? Many local venues offer two-to-three-day hire allowing you to get settled the night before, enjoy a delicious meal together before celebrating the big day and rounding out the weekend with a morning-after breakfast together. Some offer this format utilising on-site accommodation in the form of charming cottages or renovated farm buildings, while others allow for bell tent hire and glamping. So, you’ll be able to find the dream location whatever your style. This issue we delve into 2025’s top venue styling trends, which we hope will inspire you. Plus, if you’re in two minds about whether to go for a wedding cake or not, don’t miss our in-depth feature with plenty of advice and tips to help you decide. So, as ever, enjoy and keeeep planning! Kelly x ISSN 1746-9384 Your Yorkshire 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 Yorkshire Wedding is published six times a year. Kelly Andrews, editor 22 COWBOY ERA Star and Ben decided to give a nod to their love of country music and included cowboy hat motifs both in their own looks and as little touches in their venue styling. 16 PICTURE PERFECT Charlotte and Matthew’s was the first wedding ceremony to be held in Temple Newsam’s stunning new Picture Gallery location. DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding EDITORIAL Deputy Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | 01376 535 611 kelly.andrews@county.wedding Here comes the sun Thomas AE on Unsplash indyandgracephotography.co.uk @CountyWeddingMagazines @countyweddingmagazine @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com ADVERTISING Account Manager Tony Smith | 01376 538 562 tony.smith@county.wedding lucyhenzellphotography.co.uk EDITOR’S LETTER 7
01943 830 004 We can bring your food stories to life goodfoodstory.co.uk hello@goodfoodstory.co.uk Get inspired, more stories on Instagram @goodfoodstoryuk Yorkshire Lamb #MAIN STORY GOOD FOOD YORKSHIRE’S Weddings | Events | Fine Dine | Corporate
NEWS Catch up on the latest from around the county FLAVOUR FINDINGS New survey findings released by North Yorkshire-based brand Dutch Barn Vodka, co-owned by Ricky Gervais, suggest a major image problem is holding back the flavoured vodka category. According to the research, 60 per cent of UK spirit drinkers believe flavoured vodka tastes artificial, assuming it’s loaded with sweeteners, synthetic flavourings, and too much sugar, causing many to steer clear altogether. However, in a clear sign that change is possible, 88 per cent said they would consider drinking flavoured vodka if they trusted what was inside. The insight comes as Dutch Barn unveils its latest creation: Dutch Barn British Raspberry Vodka. A celebration of nature’s candy, this vibrant new addition combines the brand’s award-winning Orchard Vodka with real British raspberries without the additives that often turn drinkers away. The result is a smooth, crisp vodka, with natural flavours, and a clean, fresh finish that works perfectly in cocktails or straight up over ice. With the rise of ingredient-conscious consumers, greater demand for transparency, and growing scrutiny over what’s really in their bottle, the survey suggests flavoured vodka is on the cusp of a transformation, from a guilty pleasure to a credible, premium choice. Find out more at dutchbarn.com Nearlywed THE GREEN REVOLUTION A new chapter in conscious bridalwear continues with the launch of From Above, the UK’s newest sustainable boutique specialising in pre-loved wedding dresses. With a curated collection of more than 190 dresses featuring renowned designers including Ronald Joyce, Maggie Sottero, Berta, Mori Lee, Milla Nova, Elysee, and more, From Above offers fashion-forward brides the chance to wear stunning designer gowns at a fraction of the cost and with a significantly smaller environmental footprint. Despite being worn for just a few hours, the average wedding dress contributes to a much larger environmental impact. The global fashion industry is estimated to produce 10 per cent of global carbon emissions, and single-use garments like wedding gowns are part of the problem. In the UK, more than 250,000 weddings occur annually, with most dresses stored away or discarded after a single wear. From Above is aiming to change that. By offering a carefully restored, beautifully presented collection of once-worn gowns, the boutique invites brides to find their dream dress in a way that honours both love and the planet. Every gown is professionally cleaned, hand-selected, and ready to be re-loved. You also have the opportunity to sell your dress through From Above, creating a circular bridal economy that benefits couples financially and ecologically. Learn more at fromabove.wedding 9 LOCAL NEWS THE HOME OF BEAUTY Beloved global beauty retailer Sephora UK is arriving in Sheffield this July. The new Meadowhall store, which spans 3,389 square feet of retail space, will offer local beauty enthusiasts an extensive range of world-renowned products, from cult favourites to indie icons, including the brand’s own namesake range, Sephora Collection. Customers can also shop exclusive ‘Only at Sephora’ brands such as Haus Labs by Lady Gaga, Makeup By Mario, Mertit and Tower 28 alongside other TikTokviral sensations lighting up the hot-on-social table like Glossier, Rare Beauty, Sol De Janeiro and Kosas. The Sephora experience is more than a place to shop, it’s about helping you look and feel your best with a range of services from personalised beauty consultations to gift wrap and engraving.
CROWNING GLORY Bradley’s Jewellers York has added to its best-selling, in-house designed York Rose Collection with a range of diamond rings and the exclusive York Rose Tiara. The York Rose Tiara, the pièce de resistance of the collection is set with more than 1,000 fancy-cut diamonds weighing upwards of 10 carats in recycled 9ct white gold. The concept was designed by Kay Bradley and brought to life through meticulous British craftsmanship. As a result, the York Rose Tiara will feature the esteemed ‘Created in the UK’ mark, applied by the Birmingham Assay Office. The York Rose Tiara will soon form part of The Seasons – a unique series of four tiaras that celebrate spring, summer, autumn and winter in Yorkshire. The first to be launched represents the summer, while a soonto-be-revealed York Daffodil Tiara will pay homage to the optimism and renewal of the spring months. A third piece – the Rainbow Hope Tiara – will recognise autumn as a time of harvest, abundance and accomplishment in vibrant coloured gemstones. Although they won’t be available for sale, The Seasons tiaras will occasionally be loaned to VIP customers and local brides upon request. This ensures that the Yorkshire community can benefit from these heirlooms for generations to come. The York Rose collection was first unveiled in 2022 and draws inspiration from numerous sources, including the emblematic white rose of Yorkshire and the Rose Window at York Minster. Existing designs include bangles, stud earrings, pendants, solitaire engagement rings and trilogy rings, which can be set with the customers’ choice of natural or laboratory-grown diamonds. For further information head over to bradleysjewellersyork.com CITY OF LOVE By analysing key features including the number of romantic hotels, art galleries, museums and five-star restaurants, Suit Direct has revealed the top UK cities that cater to every couple’s idea of romance. As a result, Leeds has come up trumps, being crowned one of the UK’s most romantic cities. Leeds was found to be the perfect city for couples who love the outdoors. With more than 51 outdoor activities, you can explore beautiful parks, take a walk through Tropical World, indulge in food festivals at Roundhay Park or enjoy live music at one of the city’s intimate venues. For a spot of retail therapy head to the Corn Exchange for some vintage shopping, followed by drinks at hidden bar The Domino Club, where live jazz sets the tone. Alternatively, if a cultural experience is more your vibe, a sculpture trail date at Yorkshire Sculpture Park just outside the city comes highly recommended. WITH THIS RING... Amy Stringer, a contemporary jewellery maker based in Leeds, specialises in bespoke wedding bands made to order as well as makeyour-own wedding ring workshops. Amy’s approach is refreshingly different: she blends traditional techniques with a modern aesthetic, creating deeply personal, sustainable pieces using fully recycled materials. Each ring is handmade to order with no mass production involved, just beautiful craftsmanship from a female-owned, independent studio. Mark your commitment with a one-of-a-kind wedding ring in yellow, white or rose gold, 9 or 18ct. You can even join Amy at her Leeds City Centre studio for a consultation to discuss, your ideas and be accurately sized. Be fully involved in the design process or leave it with Amy, the choice is yours. Her wedding band workshops, priced at £375 plus materials, have also become a much-loved part of many couples’ wedding journeys, giving them the chance to create something truly meaningful together ahead of the big day. Find out more at amystringer.com/collections/wedding-rings Jack Niles on Unsplash 10
NADIA VIOLIN Award-Winning Wedding & Events Violinist Traditional & Asian Weddings MakingYour Dream Day Sound as Beautiful as it Looks! info@nadiaviolin.co.uk 07426 369 994 nadiaviolin.co.uk Nadia Violin erfect backdrop fo our perfect day! que experience for every couple. Steeped in gran The perfect backdrop for your perfect day! A tailored and unique experience for every couple. Steeped in grandeur, you’ll run out of time in the day before you run out of photo opportunities! A true fairy-tale wedding destination. Drop us an email: info@allertoncastle.co.uk. Give us a call: 01423 330927. Visit our website: www.allertoncastle.co.uk • The perfect, romantic setting, as unique as you and your partner. • A fantastic Gothic Castle and grounds, nestled in theYorkshire countryside • "Exclusively yours" Permitting you to make memories to cherish for a lifetime in a private location with only your friends and family. • Perfect for weddings of all sizes. • Our dedicated Event Managers on hand to ensure the planning is stress-free. Allerton Castle - fp.qxp_Layout 1 22/07/2022 11:41 Page 1 The perfect backdrop your perfect day! A tailored and unique experience for every couple. Steeped in you’ll run out of time in the day before you run out of p opportunities! A true fairy-tale wedding destination Drop us an email: info@allertoncastle.co.uk. Give us a call: 01423 330927. Visit our website: www.al • The perfect, romantic setting, as unique as you and your partner. • A fantastic Gothic Castle and grounds, nestled in theYorkshire countryside • "Exclusively yours" Permitting you to make memories to cherish for a lifetime in a private location with only your friends and family. • Perfect for weddings of all sizes. • Our dedicated Event Managers on hand to ensure the planning is stress-free. Allerton Castle - fp.qxp_Layout 1 22/07/2022 11:41 Page 1 The perfect backdrop for your perfect day! A tailored and unique experience for every couple. Steeped in grandeur, you’ll run out of time in the day before you run out of photo opportunities! A true fairy-tale wedding destination.
A team of mobile, award-winning, published specialist Wedding Hair and Makeup artists committed to providing you with the ultimate bespoke, tailored service on one of the most important days of your life. Our team have the passion, creativity and technical expertise to deliver high-end bridal hairstyling and radiant, flawless and beautiful makeup. We create flawless natural makeup and beautifully styled hair for the modern, classic, fun and elegant bride to be and bridal party. Email styleloungeuk@gmail.com Facebook /thestyleloungeuk Instagram @thestyleloungeuk Specialist Wedding Hair & Makeup Artists WHEN TWO HEARTS RACE... BOTH WIN! York Racecourse has everything you could need to make your big day extra special. The award-winning York Racecourse offers the perfect setting for a wedding reception and ceremony in Yorkshire. This prestigious York wedding venue offers stunning facilities, extensive grounds for photo opportunities, and renowned homemade catering on-site. 01904 638 971 weddings@yorkracecoursehospitality.co.uk Scan to visit the website
Tie the knot in a local hotspot Sheffield BISHOP’S HOUSE Meersbrook Park, Norton Lees Lane, Sheffield, S8 9BE 0114 258 1174 | bishopshouse.org.uk BRADFIELD VILLAGE HALL The Sands, Low Bradfield, Sheffield, S6 6LB 0114 2851 227 | bradfieldvillagehall.com CROWNE PLAZA, ROYAL VICTORIA Victoria Station Road, Sheffield, S4 7YD 0114 276 8822 | cpsheffield.co.uk CRUCIBLE THEATRE 55 Norfolk Street, Sheffield, S1 1DA 0114 203 819 | sheffieldtheatres.co.uk CUTLERS’ HALL 7 - 15 CHURCH STREET, SHEFFIELD, S1 1GJ 0114 276 8149 | cutlershall.co.uk DOUBLETREE BY HILTON SHEFFIELD PARK Chesterfield Road South, Sheffield, S8 8BW 0114 282 9988 | hilton.com/en/hotels/ szdcrdi-doubletree-sheffield-park THE FAIRWAY INN Birley Lane, Sheffield, S12 3BP 01142 653 692| fairwayinnsheffield.co.uk FOX VALLEY RETAIL PARK Fox Valley, Stocksbridge, Sheffield, S36 2AB 07780 117 767 foxvalleysheffield.co.uk/weddings HALIFAX HALL HOTEL Endcliffe Vale Road, Sheffield, S10 3ER 0114 222 8999 | halifaxhall.co.uk HANDSWORTH OLD RECTORY COMMUNITY CENTRE 402b Handsworth Road, Handsworth, Sheffield, S13 9BZ 0114 269 2537 theoldrectoryhandsworth.co.uk HILLSBOROUGH ARENA Hillsborough Arena, Middlewood Road, Sheffield, S6 4HA 0114 233 5310 | hillsborougharena.co.uk J G GRAVES WOODLANDS DISCOVERY CENTRE Ecclesall Woods, (Old) Sawmill Site, Abbey Lane, Sheffield, S7 2QZ 0114 250 0500/07805 022670 friendsofecclesallwoods.org.uk KELHAM ISLAND MUSEUM Alma Street, Sheffield, S3 8RY 0114 201 0618 sheffieldmuseums.org.uk/venue-hire KENWOOD HALL HOTEL 48 Kenwood Hall Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S7 1NG 0114 258 3811 | kenwoodhall.co.uk LEOPOLD HOTEL 2 Leopold Street, Sheffield, S1 2GZ 08450 780 067 | leopoldhotel.co.uk/en MERCURE ST PAUL HOUSE HOTEL AND SPA 119 Norfolk Street, Sheffield, S1 2JE 0114 280 8880 mercureweddings.com/hotel/mercuresheffield-st-pauls-2 MILLENNIUM GALLERY 48 Arundel Gate, Sheffield, S1 2PP 07485 333 099 sheffieldmuseums.org.uk/venue-hire MOSBOROUGH HALL HOTEL High Street, Mosborough, Sheffield, S20 5EA 0114 248 4353 | mosboroughhall.co.uk NIAGARA CONFERENCE AND LEISURE South Yorkshire Police, Niagara Road, Sheffield, S6 1LU 0114 296 4945 | niagaracentre.co.uk NORFOLK ARMS 2 RINGINGLOW VILLAGE, RINGINGLOW, SHEFFIELD, S11 7TS 0114 230 2197 | norfolkarms.com SOUTH YORKSHIRE Spotlight on... liamrimmington.com SAMUEL WORTH CHAPEL LOCAL VENUES 13
OEC OWLERTON STADIUM Penistone Road, Sheffield, S6 2DE oecsheffield.co.uk QUAYS HOTEL Victoria Quays, Furnival Road, Sheffield, S4 7YA 01142 525 500 | thequayshotelsheffield.co.uk RADISSON BLU HOTEL 30 Pinstone Street, Sheffield, S1 2HN 0114 238 8968 | radissonhotels.com/en-us/ hotels/radisson-blu-sheffield SHEFFIELD BOTANICAL GARDENS Clarkehouse Road, Sheffield, S10 2LN 0114 267 6496 | sbg.org.uk SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY FOOTBALL CLUB Penistone Road, Sheffield, S6 1SW 0114 324 0777 | swfc.co.uk STEEL CITY CHAPEL Ground Floor, 25 Alma Street, Sheffield, S3 8SA 0114 249 4804 | steelcitychapel.co.uk THE CHIMNEY HOUSE 4 Kelham Island, Sheffield, S3 8RY 07958 402 788 | thechimneyhouse.com TAPTON HALL Shore Lane, Sheffield, S10 3BU 0114 266 0051 | taptonhall.com THE SAMUEL WORTH CHAPEL SHEFFIELD GENERAL CEMETERY, CEMETERY AVENUE, SHARROW, SHEFFIELD, S11 8NT 07722 050 135 | gencem.org/venue-hire/ the-samuel-worth-chapel THE VICTORIA 1 Rowland Street, Sheffield, S3 8DE 07812 123 972 | thevictoriasheffield.com TRAFALGAR WAREHOUSE 120 Trafalgar Street, Sheffield, S1 4JT 0114 252 7602 | trafalgarwarehouse.co.uk WESTON PARK BANDSTAND Weston Park, Sheffield, S10 2TP 07875 241 333 WESTON PARK MUSEUM Weston Park, Weston Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TP 07485 333 099 | sheffieldmuseums.org.uk/ venue-hire WHITLEY HALL HOTEL Elliot Lane, Grenoside, Sheffield, S35 8NR 0114 221 3003 | whitleyhall.com Rotherham ASTON HALL HOTEL Worksop Road, Aston, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S26 2EE 0114 287 2309 | www.astonhallhotel.co.uk FITZWILLIAM ARMS HOTEL 1 Taylors Lane, Parkgate, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S62 6EE 01709 522 744 | fitzwilliamarmshotel.co.uk GEORGE WRIGHT BOUTIQUE HOTEL The Crofts, Snail Hill, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S60 2BZ 01709 372 173 | georgewrighthotel.com HELLABY HALL HOTEL Old Hellaby Lane, Hellaby, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S66 8SN 01709 702 701 | hellabyhallhotel.co.uk HOLIDAY INN ROTHERHAM/ SHEFFIELD West Bawtry Road, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S60 4NA 01709 830 630 | hirotherhamsheffield.co.uk ROTHERHAM GOLF CLUB LTD Thrybergh Park, Thrybergh, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S65 4NU 0870 863 6455 | rotherhamgolfclub.com ROTHERHAM UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB New York Stadium, New York Way, Rotherham, S60 1FJ 07436 265 496 | aessealnewyorkstadium.com SITWELL PARK GOLF CLUB Shrogswood Road, Whiston, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S60 4BY 01709 709 970 | sitwellgolfclub.com Barnsley BURNTWOOD COURT HOTEL Common Road, Brierley, Barnsley, S72 9ET 01226 711 123 | burntwoodcourt.co.uk CANNON HALL MUSEUM Barkhouse Lane, Cawthorne, Barnsley, S75 4AT 01226 790 270 | cannon-hall.com CUBLEY HALL Mortimer Road, Penistone, Sheffield, S36 9DF 01226 766 086 | cubleyhall.co.uk OEC SHEFFIELD www.victoriagreensmithphotography.com 14
HOLIDAY INN BARNSLEY Barnsley Road, Dodworth, Barnsley, S75 3JT 01226 299 571 | hibarnsley.com SHAW LANE SPORTS CLUB Shaw Lane, Barnsley, S70 6HZ 01226 203 509 | shawlane.com TANKERSLEY MANOR HOTEL Church Lane, Tankersley, Barnsley, S75 3DQ 01226 744 700 | tankersleymanorhotel.com THE WENTWORTH ARMS Greenside, Mapplewell, Barnsley, S75 6AU 01226 390 702 | wentwortharms.co.uk WORTLEY HALL Wortley, Sheffield, S35 7DB 01142 882 100 | wortleyhall.org.uk Doncaster BAWTRY HALL South Parade, Bawtry, Doncaster, DN10 6JH 01302 710 341 | bawtryhall.co.uk CUSWORTH HALL Back Lane, Cusworth, Doncaster, DN5 7TU 01302 782 342 DONCASTER RACECOURSE Leger Way, Intake, Doncaster, DN2 6BB 01302 304 200 | doncaster-racecourse.co.uk DONCASTER RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB Castle Park, Armthorpe Road, Wheatley Hills, Doncaster, DN2 5QB 01302 831 388 | castle-park.co.uk EARL OF DONCASTER Bennetthorpe, Doncaster, DN2 6AD 01302 361 371 | theearl.co.uk FISHLAKE MILL Eastfield Road, Fishlake, Doncaster, DN7 5LH 01303 841 486 | @fishlakemillweddings HATFIELDS Ash Hill Road, Hatfield, Doncaster, DN7 6JH 01302 842 255 | hatfieldspub.co.uk HILTON GARDEN INN Doncaster Racecourse, Leger Way Intake, Doncaster, DN2 6BB 01302 321 483 | hilton.com/en/hotels/ dsadrgi-hilton-garden-inn-doncasterracecourse HOLIDAY INN High Road, Warmsworth, Doncaster, DN4 9UX 01302 799 988 | ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/ gb/en/doncaster/dsaww/hoteldetail HOOTON PAGNELL HALL Hooton Pagnell Village Street, Hooton Pagnell, Doncaster, DN5 7BW 07930 344 196 | hootonpagnellhall.com MANSION HOUSE High Street, Doncaster, DN1 1DG 01302 734 032 | doncaster.gov.uk/services/ culture-leisure-tourism/mansion-house OWSTON HALL HOTEL Owston Hall, Stockbridge Lane, Owston, Doncaster, DN6 9JF 01302 346 922 | owstonhall.com PASTURES LODGE Pastures Road, Mexborough, Doncaster, S64 OJJ 01709 579 599 | pastureslodge.co.uk ROSSINGTON HALL Great North Road, Rossington, Doncaster, DN11 0HR 01302 866 822 | rossingtonhall.co.uk THE CROWN HOTEL 33-41 Market Place, Bawtry, Doncaster, DN10 6JW 01302 710 341 | crownhotel-bawtry.com THE HARVEY ARMS Old Bawtry Road, Finningley, Doncaster, DN9 3BY 01302 737 590 | theharveyarms.co.uk THE PUNCH BOWL INN Fieldside, Thorne, Doncaster, DN8 4BE 01405 813 580 oldmillinns.co.uk/the-punchbowl-inn THE REGENT HOTEL Regent Square, Doncaster, DN1 2DS 01302 364 180/363 336 theregenthotel.co.uk YORKSHIRE WILDLIFE PARK Brockholes Lane, Branton, Doncaster, DN3 3NH 01302 535 057 | yorkshirewildlifepark.com YORKSHIRE WILDLIFE PARK 15 LOCAL VENUES
Picture perfect Charlotte and Matt’s “I dos” were the first in Temple Newsam’s glorious, newly available Picture Gallery location Images courtesy of Indy and Grace Photography 16
Charlotte and Matt met on Tinder. After chatting on the phone, they decided to meet for a first date at a pub in Wakefield. The two talked and laughed non-stop and even sat in the car together after the pub had closed to continue their conversation. As Covid hit not long after they found themselves thrown together in scenarios that might otherwise have taken months, or even years, but Charlotte believes this helped to strengthen their relationship. Matt proposed one Christmas Eve. Charlotte had just managed to get their son Blake down for a nap when Matt handed her a scratch card. Nothing particularly unusual as they have scratch cards every year at Christmas, that was until Charlotte matched three rings and started to realise something different was happening. She scratched off the prize panel and Matt got down on one knee and asked her to marry him, just as the card revealed. Initially, the couple were looking to get married abroad but after some research they were still unsure so decided to look at some UK venues to be sure. “Temple Newsam was an absolute wildcard for us as we didn’t know they did weddings,” Charlotte shares. “We’ve always loved visiting stately homes and have spent a lot of time at Temple Newsam either with friends or together as a family. When we met Josh and looked around, we were blown away by what it had to offer.” Josh then told them about a new room available for hire, so they went to take a look. “As soon as we set foot in The Picture Gallery, we knew it was the place for us,” Charlotte explains. “A jaw-dropping room, the Gallery was the perfect backdrop for our wedding and suited us as a couple.” So, with all thoughts of an overseas wedding dismissed, the date was set for 26th April 2025. Here, Charlotte tells us more... SETTING THE SCENE “In terms of decorative touches at Temple Newsam we chose barely any,” Charlotte says. “The venue itself is so impressive as it is so, we didn’t want to ruin the aesthetic by adding in something that would take away from its history.” For the evening do at Calverley Golf Club, the couple opted for navy and white floral centrepieces finished with a lantern each. The chairs were adorned with theme-fitting navy sashes and the newlyweds sat at their own sweetheart table. The flowers were artificial, allowing the bride and bridesmaids to keep their bouquets. They featured blue and white roses, gypsophila, greenery and pink tulips in memory of Charlotte’s late grandmother. The groom arrived at the ceremony venue in a custom MK6 Jaguar followed by his bride who’d travelled with her bridesmaids in a Bramwith Royale in ivory and black. The Bramwith later took the newlyweds on to their evening reception. “It got lots of beeps and cheers as we drove along,” Charlotte remembers. Rather than a sit-down dinner, the couple opted for a casual Mediterranean-style buffet. LOOKING THE PART Charlotte wore Nella by Wtoo by Watters. “I’d always dreamed of having a big, yet classic wedding dress, something that would make me feel like a princess,” Charlotte shares. She also opted for the Nella bow, which she had customised to include a pearl belt on the front. REAL WEDDINGS 17
info@Lartington-Hall.com • 01919 337 409 Lartington Hall, Lartington Lane, Barnard Castle, DL12 9BW www.lartington-hall.com WELCOME TO COUNTY DURHAM'S MOST ENCHANTING WEDDING VENUE, LACED IN HISTORY & GRANDEUR Multi Award Winning photographer. Creating the perfect balance of artistic and candid photos. Your Photos, Your Story, Your Way. leyla@thestoryofyou.co.uk • 07855 371 786 www.thestoryofyou.co.uk
The groom wore a three-piece Cavani suit with navy trousers, cream jacket and waistcoat to match. He accessorised with a navy tie and pocket square to complement the evening’s palette. His groomsmen were dressed to match, with the exception of navy waistcoats as opposed to the groom’s cream one. The bridesmaids wore navy dresses of varying styles since it was important to Charlotte that they felt comfortable. Two opted for chiffon halter necks, one decided on spaghetti straps, while the other chose a wide leg jumpsuit. They all looked fabulous. TIME TO CELEBRATE Singer Leon Marshall kicked off the evening celebrations with covers including hits by Elvis, as well as his own compositions. “He went down a storm with guests and the venue’s wedding coordinator!” Charlotte remembers. MEMORABLE MOMENTS “I was relatively calm in the morning until around 11am when it all started to get a bit real,” Charlotte tells us. “Once the dress was on, I got super nervous but as soon I was saw Matt at the other end of the aisle, I was beyond happy. Matt was the opposite – cool as a cucumber all morning until I walked into The Picture Gallery and the nerves hit! But he says this was one of the moments that stood out most for him. The rest of the day was a bit of a blur, but I just remember being the happiest I’ve ever been, surrounded by the people we love.” 19 REAL WEDDINGS
ROLL CREDITS Ceremony venue, Temple Newsam, museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/pQPYbTb/weddings | Reception venue, Calverley Golf Club, calverleygolf.co.uk | Photographer, Indy and Grace Photography, indyandgracephotography.co.uk | Dress, Adele Howarth-Winstanley Bride, ahwbride.com | Groom’s and groomsmen’s attire, Yorkshire Menswear, yorkshiremenswear.com | Wedding rings, Goldsmiths | Hair and make-up, Rachel Head-Smith, @rachael.head.9 | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Ever Pretty | Flowers, Pretty Wildflower Shop, prettywildflower.co.uk | Transport, BB Wedding Cars, bbweddingcarhire.co.uk | Entertainment, Leon Marshall, leonmarshall.co.uk | Chris’s Big Bang Wedding & Events DJ, chrisbigbangweddingandeventsdj.com | Venue styling, Truly Perfect Events, trulyperfectevents.co.uk 20
Natural Storytelling, capturing moments, memories and emotion It is always my priority to capture the true character of your wedding day. I’m not interested in staged poses and cheesy grins. I use a blend of natural documentary style wedding photography and creative portraiture to tell the full story of your day. I’m conscious of keeping the photography short and stress free so you don’t have to spend long away from your guests and will be completely comfortable in front of the camera. If you are planning your wedding I‘d love to hear from you. 07564 953262 • kirstyds@gmail.com • www.kmattssonphotography.com MULTI-AWARD WINNING PHOTOGRAPHER Kirsty Mattsson Kirsty Mattsson Photography Supplying wedding dj services with options to include karaoke, slideshows or music video on a screen and room uplighting. Based in Scarborough and covering all regions of Yorkshire. 07969 606 852 • Chris@bigbangweddingandeventsdj.com www.facebook.com/ChrisBigBangDJ www.chrisbigbangweddingandeventsdj.com Chris’s Big Bang Wedding & Events DJ WE’RE BANGING OUT THE TUNES
A LITTLE BIT COUNTRY Star and Ben said “I do” at Bunny Hill on 8th June 2024 Images courtesy of Lucy Henzell Photography 22
Star and Ben’s is a modern-day romance having met on a dating app. Star is from Hull, where we’re told everyone knows everyone else, so it was a surprise to her to come across someone who she’d never met, was her age and in the same radius! Ben proposed in 2022 after four years together. The couple love a spa trip and one of the earliest in their relationship had been at Rudding Park. So, it was here that Ben decided to pop the question after a lovely day of relaxation together. “It was just the two of us, which was perfect,” Star remembers. WIDE OPEN SPACES The couple were on the lookout for a venue with plenty of open space and a modern barn allowing them to say “I do” and celebrate all in one place. “Bunny Hill was perfect for us,” Star explains. “The whole venue and accommodation is stunning.” The night before the big day, Star hired a private chef to cook dinner for herself, the bridesmaids, her mum and her aunties, which they all enjoyed seated in the courtyard. KEEP IT NEUTRAL Star had built a relationship with their wedding florist during the lead up to the wedding and every year took a Christmas wreath making class with her. “By the time of our wedding she knew how much of a beige Betty I was and included it throughout our bouquets, centrepieces and statement aisle piece.” Being country fans, Star and Ben decided to incorporate some nods into their styling. Their Tequila Rose shot bottles were topped with small cowboy hats, and their photo booth later in the day included black and white cowboy hat props. As well as country, the couple also share a love for Disney, so their two-tiered bake concealed a hidden Minnie and Mickey acrylic cut out at the back. For every guest, Star wrote a two-sentence rhyme so that when they opened their place cards they found a personal touch from the bride. “It took me nearly two years to write them but I think they were a nice surprise for all on the day,” Star says. The tables were named after places Star and Ben had visited together in the order they visited them, and included Dublin, Orlando and Copenhagen. FOOD FOR THOUGHT The Hog & Apple Food Co are the caterers linked to the venue and they didn’t disappoint. The couple attended every tasting night they hosted to get an idea of the wide variety of dishes they offer. “Ben and I are foodies, so if it was up to us, the meal would have been something specific, but as we were catering to the masses we went for REAL WEDDINGS 23
a charcuterie starter, a choice of roast meats, and a brownie and Eton mess for dessert, plus lots of lovely canapés during cocktail hour.” THIRD TIME LUCKY “When I started wedding dress shopping, I was open to trying every shape, style and colour,” Star shares. “However, I very quickly gravitated towards figure hugging styles with wider straps, which is what brought me to Andrea by House of Savin.” It was only the third dress Star tried on, and although she visited other boutiques and tried on plenty of other designs, nothing made her feel quite like the one. Ben and his groomsmen all wore tuxedos. The groom stood out with a velvet jacket and a shirt with black buttons. The bridesmaids were dressed in multiway dresses with a layer of tulle in oyster. “One of my maids-of-honour was pregnant with twins, so this was the perfect option for a growing bump!” Star remembers. SURPRISE, SURPRISE Since Star was little, she’d always said she wanted a string quartet on her wedding day, so this was a must. They played a repertoire of modern hits throughout the ceremony and cocktail hour. Guests are still talking about The Singing Waiters to this day we’re told! These secret West End singers served canapés and drinks from the drinks reception right up until their performance, so no one suspected. Only Star and her mum knew what was to come, so it was a real surprise for everyone, including Ben! During the evening, Hatchland Band took over and filled the dancefloor with their blend of indie, folk, pop and country music – “Exactly what we needed to kick start the night,” says Star. MEMORABLE MOMENTS A highlight of the day for Star was the morning preparations, which were wonderfully relaxed, thanks to her meticulous planning of everyone’s timings. “My make-up artist was one of my childhood friends, which made the morning extra special to think of us as 14-year-olds then to 30-year-olds now, about to celebrate such a big life event together,” Star says. The couple will be eternally grateful to their photographer, Lucy Henzell. Star says, “Lucy was an absolute diamond from the moment we met. Our 30 minute get-to-know you call lasted over an hour, and throughout the run-up she’d go above and beyond sending me videos of stuff she knew I’d love. For someone we spent so much time with on our wedding day, I was super glad I found Lucy.” 24
Venue, Bunny Hill Weddings, bunnyhillweddings.co.uk | Photographer, Lucy Henzell Photography, lucyhenzellphotography.co.uk | Dress and veil, Chloe Jane Bridalwear, chloejanebridalwear.com | Accessories, Lily & Roo | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Victoria Lou Bridal, victorialou.co.uk Groom’s suit, Reiss | Groomsmen’s attire, Moss | Wedding rings, Steven Stone, stevenstone.co.uk | Hair stylist (bride, mother-of-the-bride, two bridesmaids), Hair by Kelsey, hairbykelsey.co.uk | Hair stylist (four bridesmaids), Bridal Hair by Hayley, @bridal_hair_by_hayley | Make-up artist, Rebecca Robinson Makeup, @rebeccarobinsonmakeup | Cake, Sweet Valentine, sweetvalentine.co.uk | Flowers, Floral & Lace, @floral_and_lace_ | Invitations, WonderWS, etsy.com/uk/shop/WonderWS | Entertainment, The Singing Waiters, singing-waiters.co.uk | Ebor Quartet, eborquartet.co.uk | Hatchland via Entertainment Nation, entertainment-nation.co.uk/hatchland | Catering, The Hog & Apple, thehogandapple.co.uk | Videographer, P.S.Visuals, @p.s.visuals | Photo booth, Valentina Photo Booth, valentinaphotobooth.co.uk | Wedding newspapers, The Crafty Lab, thecraftylab.co.uk | Venue styling, Belle Bijoux, @bellebijoux_events ROLL CREDITS REAL WEDDINGS 25
Photographer: Ben Cumming Our spectacular stately home wedding venue Find out more, download our brochure and book a free showround today. Prices start from £1750. Ask about our Christmas weddings! Show this advert to get £100 off your booking! templenewsam.leeds.gov.uk Scan for details
Modern whimsy This talented team of female, Yorkshire-based, wedding aficionados created a wonderful, romantic, whimsical shoot painted in pretty pastels Images courtesy of Sophie WJ Photography My vision for the day was to create something floral and whimsical with a focus on pastel tones,” photographer Sophie Waghorne tells us, “Perfect for a springtime vibe.” Whirlow Brook Hall was the ideal space to capture the local suppliers’ creative spirit. Located in the centre of Sheffield, it’s set in gorgeous parkland space away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Meanwhile, the large windows allowed for Sophie to play with plenty of natural light. “The team at Whirlow Brook were fab to work with and I’m very grateful to them for letting us use the space on the day,” she continues. The project’s dream team was comprised entirely of talented Yorkshire lasses, and Sophie found herself proud to work alongside such strong, independent business women. “Everyone involved is so talented and worked super-hard to bring my vision to life just from the mood boards I’d shared with them a few months prior,” Sophie says. “We met through the world of Instagram and have built great friendships as a result.” The aim for the day was to capture a variety of bridal looks modelled by Katie and Irini from the classic to the fun. The gowns were provided by Dorothy Eloise Bridal, while the chic two pieces were designed and handmade by No.17 Edit. Keen to showcase the suppliers’ latest launches, the shoot also features new signs and newspaper by Rose Designs, as well as bridal earrings and clip-in veils by Laura Fernandez. We’re sure you’ll love the result as much as we do. Sophie concludes, “We hope this inspires couples not to be afraid to incorporate colour or something a bit different into their days!” “ 27 LOCAL SHOOT
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THE DREAM TEAM Shoot coordinator and photographer, Sophie WJ Photography, sophiewjphotography.com | Venue, Whirlow Brook Hall, whirlowbrook.co.uk Dresses, Dorothy Eloise Bridal, dorothyeloisebridal.co.uk | Dresses, No.17 Edit, @no.17edit | Accessories, Laura Fernandez Designs, @laurafernandezdesigns | Make-up artists, Samantha Oxer MUA, @samanthaoxermua | Grace Wray MUA, @gracewraymua | Hair stylist, Manishea Kaur Hair, @manisheakaurhair | Cake, Brooke’s Cake Boutique, @brookescakeboutique | Flowers, The Flower Bowl, flowerbowlsheffield.co.uk | Venue styling, Magic Touch Event Hire, magictoucheventhire.co.uk | Stationery, Rose Designs & Events, @rosedesignsandevents | Models, Katie Ward and Irini Mira 30
Nestled beside the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, our boutique offers a unique and homely atmosphere, providing a serene escape for brides-to-be. Immerse yourself in the calm surroundings as you explore our curated collections, each gown designed to reect the timeless elegance of your love story. Discover the perfect blend of wildlife charm and bridal allure here at Dorothy Eloise, where dreams take ight in the most serene setting. 07564 057 052 enquiries@dorothyeloisebridal.co.uk www.dorothyeloisebridal.co.uk @dorothyeloisebridal
Let them EAT CAKE! If you’re not sure where to start with your big-day bake or indeed whether you even want one, read on for some food for thought Karolina Grabowska on Unsplash There are so many wedding traditions that nowadays, we often don’t have any idea why we still adhere to them. Indeed, many couples are choosing not to. A wedding cake may be one such custom that’s raising a few question marks for you. Unless of course you just love cake and wouldn’t ever question the opportunity to opt for a showstopper on your big day. That being the case, go right ahead and do what makes you happy. For those of you less sure whether a cake is money well spent, let’s meander through the world of wedding cakes to help you decide. Top tip Once you’ve cut the cake, have the venue’s team put aside the top tier of your favourite flavour for the two of you to take home and enjoy. Believe us, it’s all too easy to blink and miss getting a taste of the bake you spent so much time and money on! 32
Museums of History New South Wales on Unsplash Nathan Walker on Unsplash THE REST IS HISTORY Wedding cakes boast a long and vibrant history, with humble origins in ancient Rome where a simple loaf of barley bread was broken over the bride’s head to symbolise good fortune and fertility. As we move into the Middle Ages through to the Renaissance era, we start to see wedding cakes looking more like, well, cakes! During the 16th and 17th centuries, bride pies or wedding pies were a staple at wedding feasts. Indeed, one of the earliest known recipes for a wedding cake appeared in 1655, while the first recipe for sugar paste was first published in 1609. By the Victorian period, the traditional wedding cake looked much more like the showstopping confections we encounter today. Tiered cakes became popular, as did white icing inspired by Queen Victoria’s nuptials in 1863. In general, the notion of simple food was making a shift firmly into the realm of spectacle, so the once humble big-day bake dutifully followed suit. Royalty carried on inspiring the masses into the 20th century, with King George VI’s 1923 wedding cake being the most sought after – a 10-foot high, 800-pound creation complete with figurines, cherubs and intricate icing. Today, wedding cakes run the entire gambit from single tier cutting cakes, to multi-tier showstoppers. They’re also versatile when served as a wedding breakfast dessert and act as a jaw-dropping focal point to your venue styling, when dressed to impress. They even offer the key to conveying your personalities as a couple both through flavours and decoration. READY, STEADY, GO So, you’re sold on the idea of a wedding cake? Where do you start? While Pinterest, Google and Instagram are great places to look for inspiration, try not to get caught up in the hullabaloo. There’s nothing worse for a cake designer than being presented with an interminable moodboard of images that might appear similar but are actually completely different. Your confusion will only lead to their confusion, particularly if what you’re showing them isn’t even their style. Don’t worry, there’s a simple solution. Scroll through your favourite images for points of similarity. What do you really love about each of the cakes you’ve saved? Make a shortlist and hold onto it. Before racing into a decision and approaching the first cake maker you find, who might not be the right fit for you, try narrowing down your searches with some of the keywords from your shortlist. Add in ‘Yorkshire’ too and hey presto, you should find the makers who fit your desired vibe and are capable of bringing your vision to life. When you head for your consultation have a realistic idea of budget in mind. The key here is ‘realistic.’ You may want a 10-tier George VIesque showstopper, but are you prepared to put the financial backing behind it? If not, have a think about how you might be able to incorporate the elements you love into something more palatable for the purse. Be prepared to work with your cake maker on the design to bring the dream in on budget. TASTE TEST When many of us think of a wedding cake, the traditional heavy fruit version first popular in the Middle Ages, might spring to mind. Love it or hate it, it’s far from essential at 21st century weddings, so don’t let the idea hold you back. In fact, there’s no reason to let any dislikes give you pause on the flavour front, since the options offered by local bakers are almost as varied as the designs they come up with. Meanwhile, dietary requirements can also be catered for by Yorkshire’s talented bunch. And if you can’t decide, why not opt for a tier of each of your favourites? How about a his and hers? We love the idea of combining a light, fruity flavour such as elderflower, champagne and strawberry with something rich and decadent like salted caramel. Then, for the final tier play it safe with a classic Victoria sponge. Some cake makers will offer a tasting box through the post allowing you to try before you buy. Alternatively, if you can have an in-person consultation, find out if you can try some samples to help you narrow down your choices. Top tip If the day’s a scorcher, bring your cake out later when it’s cooled down to avoid it melting and collapsing. Have your venue store it somewhere cool in the meantime or ask your cake maker to deliver it later. Alternatively, find a place to display it inside away from direct sunlight beaming in from the windows. The HK Photo Company on Unsplash CAKES 33
Kristy Cruz on Unsplash THE STORY OF US A wedding cake isn’t only a great vehicle for reflecting your theme, it’s also a wonderful way of telling your story. Here are some of our favourite ideas... • Personalised cake topper. Explore a world of choice from a catchy or cheeky phrase to your names or initials and wedding date. Or why not be extra and ask for an ornate hand painted monogram on one of the cake’s iced layers? • Reveal cake Business at the front, party at the back! • Newlywed models personalised to be uniquely you They might be designed to mirror your wedding attire or depict you as superheroes, the choice is yours. We love it when couples use Pop Vinyls or Lego minifigs as a loveable nod to the inner nerd! • Incorporate your pets Just as you can commission personalised models of yourselves, you can do the same for your beloved fur baby. They could be made from icing or something you can treasure forever. They might be taking a cheeky bite of the sweet treat, or up top with the two of you, looking for a fuss! • Palette perfection Be sure to brief your cake designer on your wedding palette to ensure your bake adds to your styling. Depending on who you’ve chosen, they may also be able to create stunning sugar flowers to mirror your bouquet or create an icing texture to complement the lace on your gown. If you’re decorating with fresh flowers, do leave it to the professionals, as many varieties cannot be used near food – it’s best to leave no margin for error! • Focal point Wedding cakes aren’t cheap, so make the most of yours by displaying it to the max. Cake meadows are oh-so popular, pairing the bake with a jaw-dropping, Insta-worthy floral display. We love cakes displayed on vintage furniture such as a dresser or upcycled side table for a shabby chic vibe. Kadarius Seegars on Unsplash Thomas AE on Unsplash Kristy Cruz on Unsplash 34
GO YOUR OWN WAY If, by this point you’re still not sold on the idea of a wedding cake, there are myriad alternatives for you to ponder. Perhaps you simply don’t have a sweet tooth. May we highly recommend a spectacular cheese tower? With artisan cheese boutiques cropping up all over, you may well be able to shop local and have a specialist compile a stack of local cheeses covering every taste from the mild to the blow-your-socks-off strong! Not only delicious these are worth their weight in gold when you serve them to your guests as the evening meal and dancefloor fuel with a selection of crackers and yummy chutneys. Dessert tables are totally on trend and still offer the opportunity to make a statement. Here, you have much more scope to cater to all tastes, and you can personalise the spread with all your favourite sweet treats – think brownies, cake pops, macarons, millionaire’s shortbread and so much more. Plus, you can still adhere to your colour palette with smaller, bitesized iced confections that are dancefloor friendly. Why not consider an alternative wedding cake if sponge or fruit doesn’t set your world alight? We adore a macaron, doughnut, cupcake or profiterole tower. Again, these treats are easy for guests to grab as they head to the dancefloor, make for a memorable centrepiece, and can be customised according to your theme. Fear not, if all of this sounds much more up your street but you’d lament the loss of the traditional cake cutting ceremony, these alternatives can be paired with a small, single tier cutting cake either as part of a dessert table or as the top layer of a tower. The best of all worlds we say! Kelly Neil on Unsplash Top tip Provide your guests with cake boxes so they can take a slice home. After a day of eating, they might not fancy a rich cake there and then, leaving you with more than you can manage left over. Giving them the option to take some home will give them something to look forward to! 35 CAKES
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