You design your shoes exactly how you’d like them, choosing the style, heel height and material. They literally have thousands of design combinations to choose from a large variety of fabulous materials from gorgeous Italian silks to fish and snake skin, the softest leathers and suede’s, we even have embellishments! You can choose your shoes ranging form ballet flats to truly glamorous 4.5 inch heels.

Once your design is complete, they send it to their craftsmen, who hand make your shoes exactly the way you’d like them, before swaddling them in a soft dust bag and delivering them directly to your door. The whole process takes 4 to 5 weeks.

If all this wasn’t amazing enough, their prices range from as little as £100! Being a bespoke service, it’s about fit as much as fashion, hence, they provide a wide range of sizes from a child’s size 12.5 to a ladies 13 (European 31 to 49), they can also make one shoe bigger than the other, adjust widths and much more. If they don’t fit perfectly, they will make you a new pair without hesitation.

So what are you waiting for, just go to www.shoesofprey.com  and start designing!

Friday 6th and Saturday 7th July 2012 ONLY!
Amazing reductions of up to 75% on selected sample gowns, by appointment only, at the Couture boutique:
74 Fulham Road, London – 020 7584 1532

Signature Summer Sample Sale

Saturday 14th to Saturday 28th July 2012!

Amazing reductions of up to 75% on selected sample gowns, by appointment only, at the Taunton boutique:
6 The Bridge, Taunton, Somerset TA1 1UG – 01823 256 308

www.sassiholford.com

Launched in March 2011 by freelance writer Emma Woodhouse, The Wedding Reporter aims to create literary legacies for discerning couples who wish to have a firsthand, creative non-fiction account of their day. This romantic narrative acts as context to the images and films of a wedding, tying together the aesthetics with traditional storytelling and acute observation.

In collaboration with Leah Spicer Creative, the newly rebranded hardback books offer couples the opportunity to have their very own love story published for posterity.

With beautiful typography, bespoke illustrations reflecting details of the wedding and the opportunity to incorporate photos alongside the narrative, published wedding reports offer an ever-lasting way to cherish the wedding day memories.

Creator and director of The Wedding Reporter, Emma Woodhouse commented: “As well as being a beautiful aide-memoir for newlyweds to pass on to future generations, wedding reports are a fantastic gift for parents, bridesmaids and even guests who are unable to attend the wedding for themselves.”

For more information about The Wedding Reporter, visit www.theweddingreporter.co.uk.

Founded in 2004 by Amanda Baird with a desire to see a more romantic soft look for wedding receptions with vintage china, rambling flowers and pretty food. This is a catering company with a difference, offering a number of services with an elegant vintage look. Styling with food, flowers and vintage china, it is as much about the presentation, decoration and display of the food as it is about the taste creating truly ‘Romantic Vintage Wedding Receptions’.

As the first catering company to offer vintage china hire, since 2004 they lead the fashion in style with beautiful food, flowers and china for this elegant look.

Vintage China Hire
Over 500 place settings of really pretty vintage china, silver, glassware and linen for Teatime and for Dinner, everything you could possibly want for a romantic decorative party from teacups to silver candelabra.

Props Hire
Floral Archway decorated with artificial blooms and birdies great for the entrance of marquee
Old delivery Bicycle with flower basket
Antique birdcages; lashings of bunting; lanterns and more
1950′s pram painted all white and with a canopy, turned into a drinks trolley for serving cakes/sweeties/drinks and more.

Catering
Canapés; Starters; Mains; Puddings.
Pudding Stations
Three course dinner
Vintage Aft

Afternoon Tea Receptions
BBQs Spit roasts
Waitresses wear vintage aprons.

Wedding Cakes
Fabulous couture wedding cakes individually designed, hand painted and decorated with hand-sculpted flowers and foliage. Very unusual designs.

Flowers
They can supply uncontrived floral displays with flowers grown in our cutting garden in Wiltshire used for our magnificent table centers. They have a large collection of vintage vases, teapots, tureens and Constance Spry flower vessels as well as a lovely collection of small pretty glasses and china cups and saucers for posies and singular blooms. Flowers are supplied during the summer months.

Styling
As a stylist Amanda Baird will automatically create a stylish look with the art of placement as part of the catering. They can offer the styling as a separate service.

Master Classes
There are Domestic Goddess Master Classes in the art of adornment with food, home and table decoration also cookery classes and how to increase your confidence and throw a dinner party. Also really helpful classes on how to decorate cakes and the art of sugar craft and How to Vintage up your home.

Hen Parties
They can cater for hen parties with a fabulous afternoon tea with all the vintage china and silver or a spectacular three course dinner with canapés and cocktails in the drawing room which were made earlier in the Masterclass.

Find out more at www.utterlysexycafe.co.uk 

1.    Get the help of a wedding planner –  choose a wedding planner who is based locally. It’s important for the wedding planner to be based in the country where you plan to get married as they will be able to advise you on everything from logistics to bureaucracy, they know the area and the right questions to ask you to get the most out of your day, your venue and your budget. A reputable company will be registered with that country’s Chamber of Commerce. Also make sure your wedding planner uses a contract. A contract is a great way to protect your rights and ensure that the services which are delivered are done so in a professional and reliable way. Any reputable wedding planning company will not only use a contract for their own protection but also committing to certain responsibilities to their clients. Listen to your wedding planner, they have all the knowledge and experience to make your day run smoothly and ensure your guests don’t pass out from heat exhaustion or get lost trying to find the venue.

2.       Bookings should be made between 10 months to a year before the wedding date. Nearly all venues in Italy don’t give out prices or allow bookings more than 14 to 18 months in advance. Asking prices 2 years ahead mean that it’s extremely likely that the price will change between now and your wedding date. As Italy is a popular destination many venues and town halls can get booked up to 10 months before. It is for this reason that the best time to make your booking is 10 months to a year in advance.

3.       Gather information the area of Italy you would like to get married such as the geography, temperature, infrastructure, etc –  Many people make requests for venues which show they do not know the area where they would like to get married. For example, Florence is over 100 kilometres from the sea which means you won’t get sea views in your Florence wedding venue! It’s important to bear in mind the temperature for the month you would like to get married. In December it snows in Italy so don’t expect a beach wedding in the winter months. July is a fantastic month for relaxing and topping up your tan but temperatures can soar into the late 30s – do you want to be in a traditional wedding dress and your groom in his morning suit with the sun beating down? How easy is it to get to the venue. Some areas of Italy for example Tuscany have few or no public transport which means your guests will have to be very independent and hire their own car. Many venues in Tuscany can be quite isolated so if your guests don’t drive they can get stuck at the venue for a whole weekend.

4.       Transparency with prices – if you’re using a wedding planner make sure they are willing to show you in a transparent way the break-down of costs. It’s difficult to compare overall package prices which include all services such as reception, hairdresser, DJ etc. By getting the breakdown of each item you can be sure to see where you are getting value for money

5.       Don’t underestimate importance of bureaucratic issues – if you’re looking at a last minute wedding you need to be aware that with the paperwork procedure you need at least 4 months before the wedding date to do everything. Also be aware of unusual laws such as the 300 day waiting period for divorced women, paperwork requirements for the British Consulate and also the Italian town hall. It’s important to note that in Italy it’s possible to get married in a venue which is managed or owned by the town hall, but this doesn’t mean grimy depressing buildings, this can mean, castles, lakeside villas, sea view terraces, the choice is endless.

6.       Comparing prices – It’s not possible to compare prices between uk and Italy because many services differ, the Italian wedding market is slightly different to the UK, for example to get your hair done at a salon in the UK with a trial can start at £50 (depending on your relationship with your hairdresser), in Italy the same service can start at Euro 150. These prices can also vary from region to region in Italy, in Tuscany for example prices to get your hair done at a salon in Tuscany with a trial start at Euro 200!

7.       Try to get away from the stereotype of Italy and Italian locations  - Italy has so much to offer and many couples are attracted to the well-known destinations such as Tuscany, Sorrento and Lake Garda. Italy offers some absolutely spectacular venues which are a little off the beaten tourist track and for this reason are excellent value for money. You won’t be compromising on scenery or quality of food but you will be discovering a completely new side to Italy.

8.       Think of your guests – it’s your big day but to ensure your loved ones make it it’s important to consider their needs, for example if your grandmother has problems walking then Positano on the Amalfi Coast is a big ‘no no’, steep steps up dramatic cliff edges can be a challenge for even the most fit people! If you have lots of young children in your group a venue with a pool or close to attractions is important to keep the children happy then also their parents! How close is the venue to the airport or other cities?

9.       Budgeting – get your wedding wedding planner to assist you with this. By knowing your overall budget a wedding planner (who already knows the general costs) can advise you of the right venues and services. Make sure that when budgeting you prioritise what are the most important elements – amazing scenery, amount/quality of food, many decorations at the town hall and wedding reception, type of wedding car, etc. You are looking to have your dream day but be ready to compromise some elements because of budget constraints.

10.   Try not to replicate a UK wedding in Italy – get to know Italian traditions and customs and mix and match them with British/Irish ones to make your day that extra special and personalised. For example Italians don’t do speeches so maybe save the best man from that duty, the top table in Italy is laid out differently or what’s becoming fashionable in Italy now is to have the bride and groom on their own table and in between courses they go to their guests to chat. In Italy only the groom wears the full suit and waistcoat as it’s important for him to stand out from the other guests, you could compromise by having the groom in one colour of waistcoat and tie and the groomsmen and father of the bride in another.

For more information on destination weddings and the services offered by BestWeddingAway please visit www.bestweddingaway.co.uk

The tower can hold any colour cake pops and Antoinette can produce numerous flavour combinations. The stand can hold up to 500 cake pops, although smaller numbers can be easily catered for. A cutting cake option on the top tier can also be incorporated to allow for the ‘cutting ceremony’.

So, will the tower start a new craze? We think so!

To find out more visit www.antoinette-patisserie.co.uk

Whether you’re looking for a traditional wedding, or a Bride and Groom seeking a unique and contemporary affair, The Luxury Wedding Show has attracted the very best of the best, delivering a unique and glamorous experience, with an abundance of ideas to help you plan your perfect day!

Designed to be fun, inspiring and with that special touch of luxury and glamour, The Luxury Wedding Show will feature beautiful bridal fashion shows and ‘live’ entertainment throughout the day, and is your chance to meet leading experts from the world of couture bridal fashion, floral design and photography, along with specialist cake companies who will tantalise your taste buds, and the connoisseurs who specialise in sought after, desired accessories to ensure your wedding day is the ultimate dream day.

Andrew Peart, Director of Sales and Marketing at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire said;

“This beautiful 500 acre English country estate in the heart of Hampshire is an intimate haven of Georgian charm that exceeds 21st century expectations. With a vast array of private dining and event space, pristine outdoor lawns and terraces, the Four Seasons offers a wealth of alternatives for Hampshire based wedding ceremonies and receptions, and is the ideal place to celebrate your wedding no matter how large or small.

“Our staff will see to every detail to ensure we make your wedding day unforgettable.

“Four Seasons Hotel, Hampshire prides itself on culinary creativity, sourcing the finest local produce which enables us to offer an extensive array of menus. Alternatively we can create bespoke menus, carefully customised for your special occasion.

“We are delighted to be hosting the Luxury Wedding Show here at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire, both the show and the venue will epitomise all that is required for a memorable and unique occasion.

“Bridget York, Creative Director of The Luxury Wedding Show said:

“The Luxury Wedding Show has created a platform for the finest suppliers of wedding essentials to showcase their work in world-class prestigious venues. The Four Seasons Hotel in Hampshire, where the show is being hosted on Sunday 22nd April will provide a stunning and stylish environment for exhibitors, visitors, and brides-to-be.”

Elizabeth Solaru, award winning cake designer from Elizabeth Cakes Emporium said:

“I am delighted to be showcasing a range of my specialist designs at the Luxury Wedding Show at the stunning Four Seasons Hotel, Hampshire. The Luxury Wedding Show exudes quality, luxury and has undoubtedly played a major part in helping me to grow my brand and expose my workmanship in front of exclusive venues and high end brides. I wish everyone a successful show”.

There will be a number of high-end suppliers participating at the show including, renowned London based florist William Clarke,  together with bridal couture house Tilly Mint, an exclusive and inspirational bridal boutique based in Fleet Hampshire, that provides elegant friendly surroundings in which to choose the dress of your dreams. They stock beautiful bridal accessories, tiaras, jewellery, shoes, hats and fascinators and couture veils.  Tilly Mint are stockists of designers such as; Sassi Holford, Stewart Parvin, David Fielden and Charlotte Balbier to name but a few.

Also participating are Ivory Boutique of Farnham who offer an impressive range of beautiful and unique wedding dresses for the discerning bride. All their designs are at the cutting edge of bridalwear design emphasising both contemporary and classic designs in couture wedding dresses.  Ivory Boutique has the added benefit of on-site dressmakers able to offer advice and make those necessary alterations that can make the difference between a good wedding dress and a perfectly fitted wedding dress.

That is why if you are planning a wedding, you should visit the Luxury Wedding Show at the Four Seasons Hotel, Hampshire. Doors open at 11am until 4:00pm and the Bridal Fashion Shows take place at 12.30pm and 2:30pm..

For Tickets register at: www.luxuryweddingshow.co.uk and quote; LWS2012 to obtain complimentary Tickets.

Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire
Dogmersfield Park, Dogmersfield
Hampshire
RG27 8TD

If you’re stuck for ideas, just take a look at their lovely website www.customcookieco.co.uk which features a huge range of cookie gift ideas for you’re big day and all sorts of occasions.

Two lucky winners can win 75 Trio Heart Sets (3 heart cookies per bag) for their big day. Each prize is worth £100.

Enter competition here

Enter competition here

Terms & Conditions

Applies to hire goods only.

Prize must be claimed three or months before the wedding.

Should your order consist of goods worth less than the prize, no goods or cash can be given for the difference.

Should your order consist of goods worth more than the prize, you must pay the difference.

Prize applies to orders placed via Woking only.

Prize is subject to availability with no prize alternative

Visit www.dessy.com and you’ll be dazzled by the choice of bridesmaid dresses available, whether you’re looking for full-length, tea-length or cocktail style frocks.

As for necklines, you’ll discover strapless, one-shoulder, sweetheart , v-neck, scoop and halter styles.

But what really sets www.dessy.com apart are the colours. You want a green dress ? You’ll find over 12 different shades of green from which to choose. Purples, pinks, reds, yellows, pastels, whites – it’s all there. Dress your maids in the same frock in different colours or different frocks in the same colour.

The Dessy Group also offers a tempting selection of bridesmaid accessories; ballet flats with contrasting shoe clips, clutch bags, pashminas, chiffon flowers for the hair or to pin to a waistline, tiaras, bracelets, pearl earrings….

Visit www.dessy.com and you’ll see just what’s available. Then enter the competition to win £200 to spend on bridesmaid accessories.

Enter competition here

Be in with a chance of winning one of two fantastic spa sets and get gorgeous for your honeymoon with detoxifying products from leading beauty and wellbeing brand Arbonne. The beauty brand has teamed up with The Wedding Girls SOS to give away two fabulous invigorating sets worth over £100 each!

Arbonne’s SeaSource Detox Spa range will completely rejuvenate and revitalise your skin before you head off on your holiday of a lifetime. The SeaSource Detox Spa Express Set is the perfect combination of products to give your skin a full at home spa experience.  Complete with Detoxifying Rescue Wash and Foaming Sea Salt Scrub to stimulate and exfoliate, the Renewing Body Gelée will moisturize and hydrate and the Sea Mud Face & Body Mask will soften and condition your skin. And not forgetting your hair – the Fortifying Hair Mask will condition and repair your hair so that you glow from head to toe.

For more details on Arbonne visit www.arbonneinternational.co.uk

Enter competition here

This is your exclusive opportunity to take home something truly exceptional from the UK’s premier bridal designer, who has dressed some of the world’s most stylish women for their weddings and red carpet events.

Places are limited. To book your personal consultation and avoid disappointment, please call: 020 7636 8212.

Location: Caroline Castigliano, 62 Berners St, London, W1T 3NN

Prospective couples can experience this stunning venue on Saturday 3rd March 2012 from 12pm to 3pm. Guests will be greeted with champagne and canapés on arrival, before exploring the unique venue and magical gardens.

A selection of some of London’s top wedding experts and suppliers will be on hand to discuss everything for that all important special day, from wedding cakes and flower arrangements to honeymoon destinations and entertainment. The Roof Gardens’ friendly events team will also be ready and waiting to advise on the wedding offers and options available for the summer and winter seasons ahead.

Sample cocktails in the Spanish Gardens, indulge in delicious food and be entertained by live music. With every element of a dream wedding catered for, The Roof Gardens Wedding Showcase is a perfect opportunity to view the best the bridal world has to offer.

For more information or to register your interest in attending the Wedding Showcase please call the events team on 020 7937 7994 or email events@roofgardens.virgin.com

His 2012 collection will see Ian yet again uncompromised in his dedication to give brides more unconventional, new and exciting wedding gowns.

Drawing inspiration from iconic legends of stage and screen, the collection features an array of classic, romantic and contemporary silhouettes in luxe fabrics with unique embroideries and decorations.

An indulgent fairytale colour palette of gold, silver, Hollywood pastels, café and cream conveys the true romanticism of the bridal gown.

The focus of the new collection is to make every bride feel like a strong empowered leading lady.

View the collection at www.ianstuart-bride.com

Priced at £2,300, the Aruna Seth bridal wedges are to be treasured.

You won’t need a disco ball wearing these shoes and we’d recommend a shorter dress to fully show off these beautiful sparkly wedges…

Available from www.arunaseth.com

The National Wedding Show is proud to present a brand new look for spring 2012, embracing all things vintage!

In keeping with the growing trend within the industry, the show will be launching a dedicated Vintage Area hosting a handpicked selection of vintage and vintage-inspired suppliers, from dresses and cakes to stationery and styling, plus vintage expert and designer Zoe Lem will be presenting her indispensible advice on how to select the perfect era and the ideal vintage dress, to suit all body shapes and tastes.

Event Director, Alejandra Campos comments: ‘The Vintage area at the show is a reflection of the huge trend for vintage-style weddings that has been so popular in recent years. The National Wedding Show is consistently responsive to the needs of the visitors and exhibitors: brides are always turning their thoughts to the past when it comes to styling their weddings, and we felt that in keeping with the demands of our clientele a dedicated Vintage space at the show would be the best way to present this.

Rachel Simpson’s beautifully unique shoes are an essential for any wedding outfit. Designed in the UK and hand-crafted in Spain, Rachel’s creations are available in a host of colours and styles, including gorgeous peep-toe T-Bars and a twenties flapper-style Mary Jane.

Perfect for a vintage-themed affair, White Knot* offers contemporary designs that push beyond the traditional. With a stunning collection of classic styles as well as a bespoke service, it’ll be hard to choose just one favourite!

Some believe the wedding cake is almost as important as the dress. The Vintage Area will host a delicious array of delicate creations from the likes of Yummy Little Cakes**, Red Cake Company** and Miss Lola’s Bakehouse**, each creating sumptuously decadent wedding cakes, cupcakes, cake pops and favours perfect for a quinessential tea-party theme.

All this, plus some of the finest vintage-inspired dresses, accessories and favours around, not to mention some of the country’s most skilled photographers, including Jacqueline Helen Photography* who cleverly captures the most delicate of moments.

To purchase tickets visit the website www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk or call the ticket hotline on 0844 581 1404

For just one weekend, his bridal boutique will be holding an exclusive sale of vintage dresses, giving brides-to-be the chance to snap up an original Bruce Oldfield dress from between £400 to £1,500, a fraction of the price!

The sale will be begin at 10.00am – 19.00pm Friday 2nd March and 10.00am – 18:00pm Saturday 3rd March.

Lusan Mandongus began in 1991 with its operation based in Hong Kong, Lusan Mandongus has been a referent for glamorous and graceful bridal gowns that made a name for itself in the bridal gown industry…

Began in 1991 with its operation based in Hong Kong, Lusan Mandongus has been a referent for glamorous and graceful bridal gowns that made a name for itself in the bridal gown industry.

With the rapid growth of the business and overwhelming response in the Hong Kong market, Lusan Mandongus embarked on an expansion path in year 2001 by introducing the brand in Japan and the UK. Through its presence at major bridal exhibitions, Lusan Mandongus attracted the interests of buyers from the US, Europe and Middle East which made the wedding dresses now available worldwide.

Lusan Mandongus’ design reflects a glamorous approach that defines the feminine and romantic spirit of a modern bride. Seeking inspiration from the oriental elements, the designs portray the harmonious expression of solidity and hollowness commonly found in the art of Chinese painting that charmingly emulate the exclusivity of each piece. The brilliant use of spaciousness further enhances the fluidity of the shape and line.

Incorporating luxurious and delicate fabrics such as silk duchesse satin, taffeta, silk chiffon, French lace and tulle of the highest quality, each piece of the bridal gown is the labour of love from the designers that is flawlessly finished with meticulous workmanship.

Cater specially for women with an appreciation for high level of style and couture-like details, Lusan Mandongus is reputed for custom-making its gown to fit the bride perfectly according to the chosen design.

Headquartered in Hong Kong, Lusan Mandongus’ bridal gowns are now represented by more than 80 representatives around the world including Hong Kong, Europe, Middle East, USA and Japan.

For more information, please visit www.lusanmandongus.com

Sara’s grandmother, Elsie Florence played a huge part in her childhood and together they shared a mutual passion for all things beautiful and elegant. Inheriting a much loved and coveted tea set from her grandmother was the inspiration needed to start her vintage china hire company in 2002, starting a nation wide trend for vintage style weddings. Sara has an eye for detail and can transform a table to make you catch your breath.

“I just want to add a little bit more. A unique place setting makes all your guests feel special”

The Elsie Florence collection continues to grow. As the business has expanded the word has spread and Sara is asked more and more to style Wedding venues and parties. Her clients love her style and patience and implicitly trust her judgement.

This summer she was asked by a London event company to provide all the eclectic vintage china for Lily Allen’s wedding. She was commissioned to make her beautiful bespoke letter bunting for a “tea & cake” stall and a ” Pimm’s” and “Black Horse Ale Bar” set up in the grounds for the wedding guests.

The vintage trend had grown and Elsie Florence has inspired girls with a passion all over the country to set up similar businesses but Elsie Florence seems to have a different USP. It is the person behind the brand who is constantly thinking ahead of the game.

Whilst the vintage tea party waltz’s on engaged couples are looking for something new and different. Budgets are tight and there is a clear need for clever creativity and forward thinking. Call on your friends and family to get involved, pared down simplicity is key.

Flowers are simple; home grown blooms in new exciting colours spill out of assorted vintage pitchers, jugs and jam jars. Tables are striped back and the vintage china takes the lead role. It is all about sharing huge vintage platters piled high with gorgeous local produce for everyone to enjoy.

The china is the talking point. Each guest has been thought about individually with a unique and stunning place setting.

And whilst the atmosphere is buzzing, it is time for the bride and groom to steal a moment of calm together. Imagine a ‘love tent’. Unique to Elsie Florence their beautiful shade pavilions are the perfect setting for a table for two. It is different to the rest, laid with modern retro china, blush and powder shades accented with a hint of black if you dare. Uber cool and bang on trend for the bride that wants it to be even more than perfect.

This is what Elsie Florence does so well and why they are unique.

New pieces of beautiful china are constantly being added to the collection and Up-cycled props are the latest edition.

For more inspiration www.elsieflorence.co.uk

They offer customers a bespoke service, on line or by appointment, creating perfect fitting and unique bridesmaid dresses at reasonable, ‘non-bespoke’ prices.

By appointment, Maids to Measure allows you to have fun designing your dresses with your bridesmaids, over a bottle of bubbles and cupcakes, in comfortable and pleasant surroundings; transforming the usual dull, stress- filled task of finding dresses into a memorable, fun and stress-free experience. One of our experienced consultants will help to make the bride’s dream bridesmaid dresses a reality. The appointment involves looking at and choosing designs, trying on samples, choosing colours/fabrics and taking ten measurements to ensure the perfect fit.

Online is a fast and easy option, which allows you to choose from our designs and fabrics to create your dress. It requires you to input your measurements (with the help of our measurement guide) so the dresses really are made to measure.

• Maids to Measure is a boutique, bespoke, tailoring service for bridesmaids.

• Maids to Measure is either online or by appointment.

• Maids to Measure offers a bottle of bubbly and cupcakes at appointments.

• Maids to Measure creates perfect-fitting, unique bridesmaid dresses at ‘nonbespoke’ prices.

• Maids to Measure dresses are all made in England.

• Maids to Measure is a fun, memorable and stress-free experience.

• Maids to Measure dresses are all £195 online and £225 by appointment, which both include fittings and an alteration.

www.maidstomeasure.com

Exclusively for Gemma’s beautiful brides, this stunning, glamorously decadent collection offers handmade, elegant designs featuring Swarovski crystals, fresh water pearls and vintage-inspired embellishments. Passionately designed and intricately crafted, Donna and Gemma are proud to present The Gemma Sutton Bridal Collection.

The collection offers a unique opportunity for brides to wear exquisitely crafted acccessories, as individual as they are.??

Gemma who has helped hundreds of brides feel confident and beautiful says “Brides have been coming to me for years asking where to buy the ‘perfect’ hair accessories. Now, I can offer brides an exquisite collection I know will be versatile with their look, because I worked with Donna myself to design it”.

View the collection at www.donnacrain.com

In the same year that Caroline celebrates 21 years at the forefront of bridal couture, she will be travelling to Leeds and Edinburgh to meet brides and offer them her personal advice.

Mark these dates in your diary now:

Edinburgh, Saturday 28^th January 2012 (0131 558 3355)

Leeds, Sunday 5^th February 2012 (0113 234 0990)

Consultations are strictly by appointment only.

This is a unique chance to meet Caroline in person and discuss your wedding gown and styling for your big day with the designer herself.

Please note that we anticipate high demand for appointments on Designer Days, so do book early with the appropriate boutique to avoid disappointment.

http://www.carolinecastigliano.co.uk/cc-designer-days-jan-201/

Beautifully crafted to the same high quality as the bespoke pieces, the collection features nine key Emmy styles including the show stopping shell and beaded Francesca peep toe and the simply chic Amelia pointed court with satin twist.

Whether looking for a vintage style 1920′s round toe shoe or a sexy 1970′s style strappy sandal the Ready to Wear collection has a dream shoe for every bride.

With an eye for detail each Emmy shoe whether Ready to Wear or Bespoke, is finished with a crystal on the sole so that when the bride kneels she still sparkles.

Emmy Shoes continue to be the epitome of English elegance and luxury and her timeless shoes and bags have been worn recently by the Duchess of Cambridge and her sister Pippa Middleton. A bespoke new evening wear collection inspired by the Middleton’s in jewel colours will be launching in October 2011.

After lots of research here are my top picks for the best fitness gear available…

Sandals Luxury Included® Resorts haveearned a worldwide reputation for providing couples with the most romantic holiday experience in the Caribbean. And now they are offering you the chance to win the honeymoon of your dreams, with a 7-night stay at one of their award-winning resorts, located on some of the world’s best beaches in Jamaica.

Each of Sandals’ resorts in Jamaica has its own personality, meaning there is something to suit every guest. Sandals has set the standard for the Luxury Included® holiday, offering facilities that are quite simply unrivalled. Luxurious and spacious accommodation, gourmet dining in up to 14 restaurants, premium brands, including an exclusive partnership with Beringer® wines, a vast choice of sports on land and sea including scuba diving*, sparkling entertainment, attentive and friendly staff and luxurious Red Lane® Spas** are just some of the things that make Sandals’ resorts the ideal setting for two people in love.

This 7-night prize is worth £3,000 and includes luxurious accommodation for two, gourmet meals and 24-hour snacks, premium-brand drinks, all land and watersports, tips and airport transfers, in addition to all the added extras that come as a part of the Luxury Included® experience.

* For certified divers

** Treatments payable locally

For more information on Sandals Resorts call 0800 742 742 or visit www.sandals.co.uk

Click here to enter this amazing competition

Terms and Conditions – The Wedding Girl’s SOS, June 2011

7 nights accommodation is provided for two adults at any Sandals Resort in Jamaica, excluding Sandals Royal Plantation.

Accommodation is on a Luxury Included® (all-inclusive) basis in a deluxe room.

Prize does not include flights. Resort transfers are included, but domestic transfers, including any flights to London, are not included.

There is no cash alternative to the prize and spending money is not included.

Holiday insurance is not included and must be purchased before travel. Customers are responsible for making sure they are adequately insured.

All travellers must travel at the same time on the same itin

erary.

Once the booking is confirmed changes to the names, date or nature of the booking are not permitted.

The prize is subject to availability, cannot be taken during peak seasons (Easter, July, August, December and New Year) and cannot be confirmed until 90 days prior to departure.

The prize is strictly non transferable, non refundable, and is subject to Sandals Resorts’ normal terms and conditions.

The prize must be taken before 30 June 2012.

Sandals’ resorts are for couples.

Sandals Resorts reserve the right to relocate prize winners from the stated resort to an alternative Sandals resort if rooms become unavailable for the travel dates requested.

By entering this competition you consent to your details being shared with our parent company located outside the European Economic Area.

The competition is not open to employees and their immediate families of promoter Unique Vacations (UK) Ltd and their associated agencies.

London’s first Alternative Wedding Fair will take place on 22nd January 2012 at Islington Metal Works. This comes after the success of England’s first Alternative Wedding Fair in St. Ives, Cambridgeshire on 23rd October 2011. The Alternative Wedding Fair is for brides and grooms who do not identify with existing wedding fairs because they do not offer options that reflect the couple’s personal style and sense of fun.

The Alternative Wedding Fair is the creation of Heidi Thompson, a former wedding planner.  Heidi specialised in planning unique weddings that reflect the couple’s personalities.   “I wanted to plan an event for couples who don’t want a ‘cookie-cutter’ wedding” said event organiser Heidi Thompson. The Alternative Wedding Fair provides a breath of fresh air for frustrated couples that cannot find unique suppliers to help them create their perfect wedding.

The venue can fit up to 100 exhibitors, so this will be quite a large-scale event.  “Unlike most wedding fair organisers, I am screening each potential exhibitor to make sure they fit into the ‘outside-the-box’ theme of the fair” said Heidi Thompson.  Heidi added, “Since I have always specialised in saving people money during the course of their wedding planning process, I want to make sure that couples can inject some fun into their wedding without breaking the bank and the selection of exhibitors will reflect this”.  Exhibitors will include unique stationery designers, fun & quirky photographers, alternative wedding dress designers and many more.  Couples can pre-book their tickets on The Alternative Wedding Fair website for £5 per person, or pay £8 per person at the door.

On top of a huge array of amazing alternative suppliers, there will be an alternative wedding fashion show at 1pm.  This fashion show is using real alternative girls instead of stick-thin models in an effort to make the event more relatable for real brides and grooms.  The fashion show will be set to a live alternative band, which is another quality that makes it quite unique.

The Alternative Wedding Fair takes place on 22nd January 2012 from 11am-4pm at Islington Metal Works in London.  Heidi is in the process of planning more fairs, including one in Manchester. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.thealternativeweddingfair.com.

Rice Butterflies are beautifully packaged and eco-friendly. Made from rice paper, rice grain and rice glue only, they are biodegradable and available in five colours (natural/white, red, blue, green and yellow), with approx. 125 butterflies per pack. Each box costs £10.99 with each box containing 6 generous handfuls of Rice Butterflies.

The classy packaging fits with many themes, from vintage to contemporary, or for weddings with a butterfly motif, of course. Beyond the visual aspects, butterflies are also hugely symbolic, too. In many cultures, they are a symbol of transformation and celebration, perfect for marking a marriage.

Rice Butterflies are now available in the UK as an alternative to confetti and the sole distributor is www.ricebutterflies.co.uk

Whilst Freya Rose’s classic styles are, in essence, timeless and elegant, the Boudoir collection is vivacious with a high fashion edge.  Inspired by the elaborate details of 17^th Century French couture fashion, this season’s look is chic and sophisticated, and sure to wow.

The Freya Rose style is romantic yet sophisticated, and reflects Freya’s background in fine jewellery. Her designs are luxurious and incorporate the best available materials including real pearls and sterling silver.

The Boudoir collection will be available from  www.freyarose.co.uk and directly from the showroom and at selected boutiques nationwide. Designs vary in price from £250 to £400.

Never has a shopping experience been weighed by so much expectation and importance as shopping for that

However many brides tell the tale of an experience far from what they were expecting, stuffy wedding shops, with numerous brides sharing an appointment time,  trying on grubby dresses in cramped changing rooms, unfriendly staff and no refreshments offered. Strict rules on removing shoes, wearing gloves and by no means taking a photo!

This is the experience Danielle McCabe had nearly six years ago and after seeing her friends and family go through similar experiences, she felt compelled to set up her own bridal boutique and offer brides all that they dreamed of.

The White Rose is positioned on the high street of the picturesque north Cotswold town of Chipping Campden. On entering the honey coloured building brides walk in to a light and spacious bridal showroom, where wedding gowns seemingly float. The boutique with its wooden floors and elegant decoration, offers a stylish, intimate and friendly space. The open feeling continues into a large walk in changing room, with shelves and display cases full of decadent accessories that sparkle back at you.

Danielle has put all of her previous managerial experience to use, creating the most desirable destination for brides to visit. ‘I have positioned my boutique in the Cotswolds, because of its central England location and beautiful surroundings’ says Danielle, ‘Brides no longer need to traipse around numerous wedding shops in busy cities, they can enjoy a relaxing day out, in a beautiful part of the country’. Brides are given exclusive use of the boutique, by appointment, so that they can enjoy one on one attention and complete bridal styling.

Danielle has carefully selected collections by top British designers with the intention of offering brides the opportunity to try on dresses by some of the most sought after designers all under one roof, including Suzanne Neville, Stephanie Allin, Johanna Hehir and Ritva Westenius. There is such a variety of gowns, in the finest fabrics and the latest designs, brides really are spoilt for choice. To complement the gowns, Danielle has selected luxury British shoe designer Aruna Seth and the much loved vintage inspired shoe designer Rachel Simpson. To accessorise your look the shop literally sparkles with ornate headdresses, tiaras and jewellery by Hermione Harbutt, Magpie Vintage and House of Istria.

Danielle has just added another desirable collection by internationally renowned designer of luxury bridal gowns, Caroline Castigliano. With attention to detail, exceptional customer service and a real passion, The White Rose offers the discerning bride a totally enjoyable bridal experience, the one that they dreamed of.?

The ‘Oscar Collection’ by Caroline Castigliano and shoes by Aruna Seth are now available along with the latest collections by all of the other designers stocked. www.thewhiterosebridal.co.uk

Et Voilà! weddings is the first French wedding planner agency in London. They offer brides and grooms-to-be a unique opportunity to have their French wedding organised by a French wedding planner that they can easily meet near home, after work or at the weekend in London. Also, with Et Voila! Weddings the couples are assured that their local wedding planner has the necessary knowledge and culture, both ways, to easily coordinate everything whilst perfectly understanding their needs.

Et Voila! Weddings was founded by Anne-Laure, a French event planner expatriate in London. Having worked for event companies, helping the teams with the coordination of events in France, Anne-Laure has realised how hard it can be for a UK planner to organise an event in France, culturally and linguistically speaking. That is why she has created a wedding planner service providing Uk based couples willing to get married in France with a French planner, here in London.

Thanks to their extensive network of partners, they can organise weddings in any region of France. This means that the couples benefit from a local planner in London, and from local contacts in France to ensure that they have access to the latest venues and suppliers.

Of course, Et Voilà! can also help with the organization of French style weddings in the UK.

Find out more at www.etvoila-weddings.com?

The debut collection from Lara Hannah London is a capsule collection of eight vintage inspired long wedding dresses made from luxurious silks and embellished with fabrics designed by Tobi Hannah.

The Lara Hannah collection fuses inspiration from English Painter, John William Waterhouse (known for his depictions of women from both ancient Greek mythology and Arthurian legend) with silhouettes from the 30′s and 70′s to produce luxurious wedding dresses with an ethereal feel.

View the collection at ww.larahannah.com

Today, she is bringing fresh, innovative and unique design methods to us from Richmond, with stylish, bold and fresh designs featured in her 2011 collection of wedding dresses.

Tatiana’s journey began with a degree in Fashion & Design Studies from the London College of Fashion.

In addition, Tatiana has succeeded in creating an impressive clientele including high street brands such as Shanghai Tang and many private clients for the design, creation and customisation of unique wedding dresses and a range of bespoke bridal wear.

After thoroughly researching the market to see what she was missing, Tatiana then set about creating a line that filled a niche, delivering style and statement in one complete package.

This year, after two long years of design concept, pattern cutting and production (with the help and support of fashion experts from around the world) Tatiana is thrilled to be able to present her own unique collection of designer wedding dresses.

Tatiana says: ‘I am very excited about this collection’. My 2011 collection highlights my creative thinking, bold, innovative designs and unique design methods over other more traditional wedding dress designers; it has been an amazing experience from the beginning sketches to the finishing touches of lace and silks, and I have enjoyed being able to use my extensive knowledge of creative pattern cutting and dressmaking expertise to create my own collection for less conventional brides’.

The collection comprises of ten different designs that any bride would be thrilled to wear when gliding down the aisle. Tatiana has used an interesting mix of exquisite fabrics to create unique looks, and has enjoyed playing with structure and textures to produce some highly individual bridal gowns that make her collection stand out from other wedding dress designers. Her inspirations include: architecture, engineering and origami.

These inspirations are clearly reflected in the 2011 collection.

‘My expertise and wealth of experience working with wedding fashions means that I am able to create your ideal bespoke wedding gowns from sketches, photographs, or I can sit down with you and help you to pluck those elusive ideas floating around your imagination; hopefully together we can create something special for your big day’ said Tatiana.

Whether you are looking for a London wedding dress designer that creates classic gowns with an edge, or stunning modern romantic wedding dresses, the new, exclusive range of Tatiana Pormebova wedding dresses are guaranteed to make you stand out on your big day.

The collection – available to order now – features a selection of headpieces and cuffs which take inspiration from the 1920s, 1950s, 1960s and 1970s – with a modern fashion-forward twist.

A new collection of organza ribbon bands allows brides to indulge in delicate floral fantasies – from woodland nymph to regency ballroom, 60s ingénue, 70s hippy chick to rock n roll goddess. The bands can be worn as headbands or forehead bands, allowing brides to mix up their look – and wear their headpiece long after their wedding day.

Seriously sparkling combs, off-centre beaded headbands and fabulous feather headpieces complete the collection – and include unique designs finished with genuine vintage jewellery.

Debbie said: “I wanted to make this collection as versatile as possible so brides could wear their chosen design in many different ways. I wanted to give them maximum choice about their on-the-day look – or looks – and also give them the option of wearing their bridal headpiece over and over, long after their wedding day has gone.”

Debbie is best known for her luxury vintage jewellery bouquets – which she complements with her vintage and vintage-inspired headpieces and cuffs which are fast becoming a favourite with brides looking for high quality unusual headpieces which mix vintage charm with a modern edge.

View the collection at www.dcbouquets.co.uk

We all have our own ways of dealing with stress but one of the most effective things you can do to lower your stress levels is to make sure you make some time to relax, time out just for you, where you are not thinking about weddings and your mounting list of things you need to get done!

Today is National Stress Awareness Day so I wanted to take this opportunity to share my top five ways to relax, try and do at least one each day to ensure you stay as stress-free as possible!

1)  Take a long hot bath with some relaxing music and candles

2)  Go to a yoga class or do a work out that you enjoy, exercise is a great way to relieve stress

3)  Book yourself a massage or buy some relaxing massage oils and ask your other half to give you one at the end of the day

4)  Make time to meet up with your girlfriends for non-wedding related fun

5)  Take a walk – whether its a long stroll in the park or a 15 minute walk on your lunch break, a walk in the fresh air is one of the best ways to clear your mind and gain perspective.

Here is a round-up of all my favourite products for some at home self pampering and de-stressing…

Yogesh Kanani, Founder of the AWE says “Last year we saw many visitors attend with a wedding checklist and many left making decisions and bookings on the day. The exhibition is unique that it is an interactive experience and each hand picked exhibitor is on hand to showcase live bespoke cake designs and colours, hair and make up trials, ring design and fitting, henna trials and more on the day itself.”

This year the exhibition showcases intrinsically English wedding trends and services as the Asian market continue to look to fuse both eastern and western styles. Marking a shift in this trend, the event attracted a diverse mix of visitors from both south Asian and non-south Asian backgrounds.

Book tickets at www.aweuk.com

Housed in the prestigious St Albans Old Town Hall, a neo-classical Grade II listed building designed by George Smith in 1830, it is set to be Hertfordshire’s most unique wedding fair.

Conceived by wedding event and fashion stylist Alexandra at The Bijou Bride to offer brides and grooms a one of a kind wedding fair experience. For one day only Alexandra will be converting this iconic landmark building in the centre of bustling St Albans into a true Wedding Wonderland, expect touches of Narnia and Wonderland magic.

The fair will showcase only the most extraordinary and stylish wedding suppliers as well as the Old Town Hall itself, an exceptional Hertfordshire wedding venue.

As they are an online boutique they have no costly overheads of running a retail store therefore being able to pass on the savings to their customers. Any alterations that are necessary can simply be made by a recommended local seamstress.

The girls are very happy to answer any questions you may have about the dresses or give you advice on picking the right dress for you.

All their dresses are beautifully packaged in a pink box with acid free tissue paper, a padded satin hanger and a secure mailing bag.

Dresses start from £250, view all 5 gorgeous designs on their website www.kittyanddulcie.com

There is £30 charge for all trunk show appointments – redeemable against the purchase of a gown

To book an appointment email verawang@brownsfashion.com or call 0207 514 0090

Vivienne Westwood’s latest Couture and Bridal collections will be presented at the premium-wedding event “The Luxury Wedding Show London”, hosted at the Saatchi Gallery on 22-23 October 2011.

For this latest bespoke Couture and Bridal Collection, Vivienne Westwood has extended the collection up to 20 styles, whilst remaining faithful to her strong belief that femininity ought to be celebrated. The tailoring, corsetry, crinoline, and soft lines of this collection all enhance the feminine silhouette. There are silk satins, georgette and chiffon for the draped and slinky styles, silk duchess and taffetas for the gowns, and embroidery, lace, tulle and sequins all to enhance the couture styles. The collection is romantic yet strong with the colour palette ranging from white, soft ivories, champagne, dusty pinks, gold, to a sumptuous red. The Westwood bride is an independent woman and this is reflected in the collection.

Within her couture flagship store, 6 Davies Street, London, Vivienne Westwood’s world renowned Couture Team provide a bespoke service to all clients varying demands. Signature pieces such as the iconic corsets, as well as items from her latest Gold Label collections are all available to buy and made to measure. Each individual design reflects the original tailoring of signature Westwood designs.

These new pieces are key additions to the collection, offering brides a wider selection and variety of looks while upholding the quality and craftsmanship at the heart of the collection; made in pure silk, exclusively in the UK with handmade detailing.

The Elsie Dress holds an easy elegance with its Silk Georgette draped cowl neck, centre front and back godet inserts, finished with two delicate silk roses drawing attention to the waist and a subtle keyhole back with self rouleau ties. In Silk Morrocain, the Petal Dress offers a sexy take on the column dress, the understated fitted lines of the front are offset with layered petal detailing at the shoulders leading to a low scooped back. The Steeple Dress features a cut-out back and slim fitting a-line skirt, the contrast between Silk Satin and Silk Crepe accentuates the bust and neckline, finished with a double ruffle detail at the shoulder. In slinky and luxurious Silk Jersey, the empire line style of The Rubies sits as a stunning destination dress, with twisted rope detailing along the neckline and straps, the fit and flare paneled skirt creates long sculptural lines flowing to a long train at the back. The Beaded Primrose Dress is an embellished alternative to the plain silk version, in Silk Crepe and with Crinkle Silk Chiffon sleeves, this style has delicate hand beading over the bust and back. The Lace Willow adds a striking half French Lace overlay to the classic Willow style, with delicate sheer lace flutter sleeves, pearl beaded detailing at the neckline and a lace keyhole back.

All styles are available in Ivory or Cream and a selection of silk fabrics. The collection is available to order throughout the year at the Belle & Bunty Boutique in London and selected Bridal stores in UK and Ireland. Prices range from between £1200 – £1750.

For view the collection visit their website www.belleandbunty.co.uk or to book an appointment email shop@belleandbunty.co.uk or call 020 7267 3322.

Jessica Fontaine originally hails from New Zealand and having trained in London for five years, then worked at the forefront of Australian and New Zealand bridal design for five years, she now lives and works in New York. Her Spring 2012 collection debuted at New York International Bridal Week in April and is going to be available in store from the 25th October 2011.

Jessica Fontaine’s designs are intertwined lace and flowing silk pieces with intricate diamante detailing and needlework. A series of bows and crystal inlaid belts accentuate the figure, whilst the flowing silk provides length and elegance. At points Jessica uses lace as an enchanting overlay to the silk; creating a series of intricate and individual pieces. With both empire and waist line designs, strapless to covered necklines, and many different material combinations these designs provide the range and fluidity to collaborate with any brides imagination and create your perfect dress

Luellas Boudoir will be showcasing her latest designs at the Luxury Wedding Show

Something Old’ – lovingly donated items from previous weddings for you to purchase on the day. ‘Something New’ – they have a wonderful variety of carefully selected friendly, local wedding suppliers exhibiting. ‘Something Borrowed’ – an area for you to share ideas as well as items for hire. Finally ‘Something Blue’ – you’ll find inspiration for your something blue throughout the fayre. With a wide variety of exhibitors and many interactive elements to the event including ‘live’ demonstrations from Xcelerate Fitness & Make-up Artist Caroline Delmonte we aim to create a fabulous experience for the entire Wedding Party.

Sue Page, Ice the Cake’s Owner commented, “Ice the cake focus on sourcing credible and incredible wedding suppliers. We search the UK for unique, quirky ideas that will enable you to make your day personal. The Wedding Suppliers that we have handpicked to exhibit at our fayre have been chosen because they offer professionalism, support and exceptional value for money. They are local businesses ready to help and many of the exhibitors on the day have been nominated for our ‘InCREDIBLE Wedding Supplier of the Year Awards’.”

Entry is FREE, Hotel Parking is FREE and there is a FREE Prize Draw.
At the Wedding Fayre Ice the Cake will be raising money for Cancer Research UK so pop along and support this fabulous local event.

A selection of gowns from the exquisite 2012 collection will be delivered into Caroline Castigliano boutiques next week, giving brides the chance to be the very first to wear exclusive Caroline Castigliano designs.

A number of independent bridal boutiques in areas across the UK, including Cheshire, Hampshire and Staffordshire, will also stock a selection of the new designs. This is the first time ever that the highly coveted designer has been available outside of her own boutiques, giving more brides the exciting opportunity to wear a dream Castigliano gown.

The new designs all reflect Caroline Castigliano’s signature of a silhouette, which is unquestionably feminine and effortlessly elegant. All of the gowns are silk and are meticulously handcrafted in the UK for a flawless result.

The internationally renowned designer, who has dressed some of the world’s most stylish women for their weddings and red carpet events, says of the new collection:

‘We have used a lot of lace, georgette organza and duchess satin, all very soft, feminine fabrics. We have created structured foundations to ensure great silhouettes and then draped the softest of fabrics to create the allure of understated feminine glamour.’

In anticipation of the new designs, Caroline Castigliano boutiques are experiencing high demand for appointments, so contact your nearest store today to ensure that you don’t miss out.

To find your nearest boutique and book an appointment go to:

www.carolinecastigliano.co.uk/boutiques

With more than 130 exhibitors on show you will find inspiration for everything from your wedding gown, accessories, cake, stationery and entertainment to favours, gift lists, caterers, venues, honeymoons and much more.

Exhibitors include: Allison Rodger, Amanda Austin Flowers, Anna Tyler Cakes, Benjamin Adams, The Bingham, Boothnation, Browns Brides, By Appointment Only Design,Claire Thorogood, Drumtochty Castle, Edwina Ibbotson Millinery, Expressions Holidays, Freya Rose, Fulham Palace, Furrer Jacot at Neal Gray Jewellers, Gorgeous Film Productions, Hello! Lucky, The Idea Box, Jeeves of Belgravia, Leeming Brothers, Little Bevan, The Mantis Collection, Martine Rupert Designs, Matthew Williamson, May Fair Hotel, Michael Van Clarke, Mosimann’s Wedding Venues, Nicki Macfarlane Bridesmaids, Noble Fine Art, Peggy Porschen, Peter Jones, Poole Brothers, Pronovias, Raj Tent Club, Ritva Westenius, Sassi Holford, Scattercake, Seyexclusive, Sliding Vinyl Discotheques, Smythson, Stephanie Allin, Temperley London, Tenors Un Limited, Turquoise Holiday Company, Twobirds Bridesmaid, Vera Wang, Zita Elze.

Catwalk show: Included in ticket price – repeated 4 times a day. 10.30am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3.30pm

On the Sofa with Brides: Magazine-style boutique chat show in which Condé Nast Brides will talk you through the myriad details that can elevate your look from good to great.

Eating & drinking: Bars and eateries are catered by Mosimann’s and Peggy Porschen- celebrity cake-maker.

Exhibition times: 10am – 5pm

Tickets: £16 in advance £18 on the door

To find out more or book your ticket visit www.designerweddingshow.co.uk or call 0871 230 5579

The success of Cymbeline begins with the story of three sisters who decided to revolutionize the fashion in wedding industry. It started in 1972, at the time when wedding dresses were formal and serious, made from ottoman and heavy silks. The designers decided to change the necklines and to experiment with the skirt lengths. They also introduced fitted bodices with leg of mutton sleeves, covered with transparent laces giving a very romantic look.

In the 80′s, the gown worn by princess Diana changed the fashion of wedding dresses, introducing puffed sleeves, large full skirts and layers of lace. During this decade Cymbeline introduced simple lines to contrast with the romantic dress all in lace from the late 70′s. They searched for new materials experimenting with taffeta’s usually used for parachutes, or a very delicate shantung instead of the common silk shantung used by the majority of designers. Their dresses were made in the lightest silks, often in pale shades with elegant puffed sleeves and full skirts.

During the 90′s bridal gowns were influenced by the designs of Christian Lacroix and the movie ” la Reine Margot “. Cymbeline’s designers introduced the ‘ensemble’ or gown made in two pieces. This new trend saw corset bodices in rich materials in darks shades such as deep red, green or blues teamed with skirts in warm shades of gold. A revolution in the skirt shapes saw for the first time a new shape of skirt without the gathering at the waist instead the line was smooth and elegant. This is also the start of a rich collaboration between Cymbeline and famous Haute Couture brands as Balenciaga, Louis Feraud, Jean Louis Sherrer, or more recently Hanae Mori.

In the year 2000 the designs reverted back to simple shapes with a touch of lace. They designed the bridal gown with a lace in bodice teamed with a matching separate lace top or jacket, this design was known as Ensemble Racine. One collection during this decade had a dress called ‘Mignonne’ which copied the shape of the heart of a red rose, this dress introduce the red color in the wedding gown
Cymbeline is a trend setter in the bridal industry and have received many awards including the award for best French designer of wedding dresses in 2009, 2010 and 2011 .

To view more of their stunning gowns visit www.cymbeline.com

Their new Cocktails in Cupcakes range takes the tasty treats to the next level with a range of mouth-watering flavours and designs that are guaranteed to get guests talking.

Cocktails in Cupcakes are a stylish way to enjoy your favourite drink in a very “sweet” way! Using real alcoholic cocktails they are creatively made to taste like the mixed drink. Cocktails in Cupcakes are an exciting pleasure that will bring something new and unique to your wedding.

A new launch for 2011, the Cocktails in Cupcakes range is available in 12 delicious flavours and are decorated to represent your favourite cocktail. Priced from just £2, flavours in the range include Cosmpolitan, Mojito, Pina Colada, Appletini and Strawberry Daiquiri.

“I wanted to be able to offer my clients something unique,” said Michelle Shulman, the creative director and owner of Cakes by Shelly.

“Having been commissioned by Cosmpolitan Magazine to create some cupcakes for their recent fragrance awards I wanted to create something special that their guests would remember. Taking inspiration from my popular champagne sponge I decided to play about with the recipe and the Cocktails in Cupcakes range was born”

“I love that the cakes are made using real alcohol rather than flavourings as it gives the cupcakes a level of authenticity.” Michelle said. “The chic black cake case and cocktail straw means they look amazing when presented together on a cupcake stand adding a stylish touch to any event.”

Cakes by Shelly also stock a full range of wedding and celebration cakes and larger cupcakes. For those last-minute clients, cakes can be turned around with just one week’s notice, subject to availability.

Visit her website www.cakesbyshelly.co.uk

The Luxury Wedding Show London brings the UK’s most influential names in the wedding industry together for an exclusive two-day event, catering for those bridal parties who are looking for the finest suppliers. Offering everything from accessories and bridal wear to the most stunning venues and honeymoon destinations, visitors can plan the most perfect wedding with minimal work.

Brides are invited to take a seat at the premiere catwalk show whilst sipping on a glass of POMMERY champagne and enjoy the latest collections from top bespoke bridal designers including Monique Lhuillier, Carolina Herrera, Vera Wang and Marchesa from Browns Brides, the very popular and fashionable Alice Temperley, the iconic Vivienne Westwood and bridal prodigy, David Fielden. Menswear exhibitors include Ede & Ravenscroft, Clements & Church and the Savile Row Company Ltd.

The most influential names in the industry will be on hand to give their expert advice and top tips. Private consultations are available with premier wedding planner Mark Niemierko who opens his ‘studio’ for inspirational advice and top hairstylist Errol Douglas who will be able to help with any hair quandaries and answer any burning questions. Other exhibitors on hand to give guidance include private concierge company Quintessentially, bridal photographer Julia Boggio, floral designers McQueens and Phillippa Craddock and occasionwear designer Claire Thorogood.

Visitor entry into this exclusive event is priced at £50 and includes:
* Access to over 100 handpicked wedding experts
* A premium goody bag – valued at £30 (please note the content of bags may vary)
* A glass of POMMERY champagne to enjoy during the catwalk show
* Reserved seating at the Catwalk Show
* The Look Book – The Essential Catwalk Programme
* The White Book – the essential guide to the show
* Guests can also visit the Niemierko Studio where personal sessions are available with premier wedding planner Mark Niemierko to discuss and plan elements of the day.
The Luxury Wedding Show London at the Saatchi Gallery
Book Tickets online or call the ticket hotline on 0844 581 1386
Saturday 22nd -Sunday 23rd October 2011- 10am-6pm

For more information visit: www.theluxuryweddingshowlondon.com

At Stephanie Allin loves creating bridal dresses which are traditional yet with a modern twist. She likes to take fashionable influences and create something different.

“It’s important for us as a brand to keep innovating new styles, gorgeous designs which are fashion forward, instead of being endangered of becoming a bit ‘samey.’ For example we’re a bridal company for ladies who seek out quality, we only use luxurious fabrics and all of our lace comes from France and Italy; we’ll design a beautiful conventional wedding gown and give it a up-to-the-minute look by decorating it with a coloured sash and accessories.” Says Stephanie.

To view the entire Jazz Age collection visit www.stephanieallin.net

Brides with a longer lead time will love the mouth-watering menu options, while the price will delight whoever is holding the wedding purse strings.

“We believe we offer one of if not the most economical wedding catering offers in London, as well as being the most sustainable caterer in the south east,” said director Nick Mead.

These unconventional caterers are perfect for the modern bride, offering a ‘sparkling reception featuring wine and canapes from £11 per head, on-trend afternoon tea from £20 per head, cold buffet from £26.70 per head and hot buffet from £37.90 per head.

And those looking to book for 2012 can take advantage of the firm’s latest initiative – homemade honey from the Eden hive, which opens next week.

Nick is a keen beekeeper himself and is looking forward to adding the homemade sweet treat to the Eden menu. Mini jars of honey could also provide a fun wedding flavour for guests at the reception.

This sits well alongside the company’s eco credentials. Eden’s Environmental Objectives are focussed in three main areas: procurement, waste and energy use.

All their red meat and fish except tuna is sourced in the UK. Their beef is from Essex, trout from Gloucestershire. “We make virtually everything ourselves so we buy very little frozen food and chilled is all raw materials,” said Nick.

Glass, plastic, paper, cardboard and metal are recycled, while all food waste goes to composting.
Find out more about Eden Caterers at www.eden-caters.co.uk

PippaDebenhams has announced that it will be selling a limited edition version of Pippa Middleton’s bridesmaid gown in stores later this year after being inundated by demands from customers.

So great is the anticipated demand that Debenhams has taken the unusual step of creating a ‘lady-in-waiting list’ to allow customers to reserve the departments store’s homage to Pippa Middleton’s iconic figure-hugging bridesmaid gown.

Debenhams’ slender ivory gown is a slinky, cowl neck number with a button-back detail and elegant cap sleeves.

An ivory flower girl dress will also launch in store to sit alongside the sleek adult gown. Featuring a delicate lace trim, puff sleeves and a pale gold sash tied in a sumptuous bow at the back, with retail prices varying depending on age.

An emerald green evening gown, with embellished neck detail and a full, floor length skirt perfect for dancing is the final gown which will hit Debenhams stores this autumn.

Debenhams is also launching a black mid-length evening gown, inspired by the dress worn by the Duchess of Cambridge on her wedding day. Featuring intricate lace detail and trim, the full-skirted prom dress is a classic take on this timeless style women everywhere want to emulate since the royal wedding.
To find out as soon as the Bridesmaid dresses are available, customers can send their details through to ladyinwaitinglist@debenhams.com.

The ‘Oscar Collection’ will be exclusively available through just 20 independent boutiques across the UK, each hand selected by the designer herself. Brides will be able to find their nearest stockist on the Caroline Castigliano website.

Available from Autumn 2011, the ‘Oscar Collection’ will launch with 35 exquisite designs retailing for between £2,000 and £3,000. Like all of Caroline’s gowns, each dress will showcase her trademark combination of simplicity and glamour and will be handcrafted in the UK.

Dermalogica Age Smart Dynamic Skin Recovery Spf30
We all know the importance of a good SPF moisturizer, and whatever age you are the concerns of aging are always a daunting thought. This fantastic cream from Dermalogica encourages firmness, elasticity and hydration while helping to defend against the primary causes of skin aging. The SPF30 also provides critical protection from the harmful and aging effects of the sun. It feels wonderful on your skin and absorbed nice and quickly.
£43.99
www.beautyflash.co.uk

Elemis Tranquil Touch Body Polish
We all want to have silky soft skin so it is important to scrub away all those dead skin cells, this gorgeous body scrub from Elemis feels great and smells divine! It contains a natural rice exfoliator to gently sweep away impurities and soften the skin. Cupuacu butter smoothes and conditions, whilst essential oils of patchouli, mandarin and ginger help enhance your mood. My skin felt super soft after using it and the scent lingered on my body all day.
£20
www.timetospa.co.uk

Evolve Radiance Boost Smoothing Cream
We all think about the best creams to put on our face well what about our bodies! Revitalise your skin with radiance boosting acerola and anti aging organic argan oil and bring life back to dull or tired skin with this superfood packed, revitalising cream. Brazilian acerola fruit is one of nature’s highest sources of vitamin C, which boosts radiance and moisturises. It also contains natural fruit acids that help to smooth and soften the skin. Fantastic!
£13.99
www.lovelula.com

Shiseido Tinted moisture protection 4 SPF 20
I am a huge fan of tinted moisturisers, especially when you are in the heat and perhaps don’t want the heaviness of a foundation on your skin. This tinted moisturiser from Shiseido is a deep, dewy, lightweight, multi-functional moisturiser. It gives a beautiful sheer coverage that feels invisible on your skin, perfect for day time and evenings.
£32
www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer
This is a fabulous concealer from Laura Mercier, it makes dark circles and blemishes disappear in an instant. Secret Camouflage contains a unique two-shade system, one to match the skins depth of color and one to match the skins undertone, making it possible for every woman to custom-blend her own perfect shade. After applying your tinted moisturizer or foundation just blend a little over the problem areas.
£26
www.johnlewis.com

Makebelieve Enhance Sunbeam Bronzer and Brush
I’m always on the look out for good bronzers that look natural and enhance your natural tan. This delicate, matte bronzer from Makebelieve is spot on, simply sweep a little over the areas that natural pick up the sun such as your cheeks, forehead and nose for a natural sunkissed glow.
£13.79
www.boots.com

Prestige Lash Matrix Length • Lift • Volume Mascara
This is a great waterproof mascara from Prestige, it goes on nicely and gave me perfect clump-free lashes, it stayed put all day long, even through swimming and sweating, it also came off easily with eye make-up remover at the end of the day.
£5.99
www.boots.com

Clarins Instant Smooth Crystal Lip Balm
I am in love with this lipbalm from Clarins, it comes in three shades and makes your lips look and feel fantastic! It feels super moisturizing, has a sheer subtle colour and a high shine without the stickyness of a gloss. This is a must-have to carry around with you at all times.
Choose from Crystal Coral, Crystal Red and Crystal, a natural pink.
£16.50
www.uk.clarins.com

Remington S8670 Multistyler
This is a great little travel kit from Remington, it comes with 5 different attachments to create lots of different styles, all in a convenient carry case. You can straighten, create curls and reduced frizz .the set contains: Remington S8670 Multistyler tong base, Crimper, Straightener, 19mm slim tong, Brush sleeve, Spiral sleeve and 4 sectioning clips . This is the perfect travel companion.
£29.99
www.boots.com

PhytoJoba Hair Masque
When I am away in the heat my hair goes a little bit crazy so I love having a good hair masque with me. This one from Phytojoba is perfect, the intense hydrating mask is specially designed to instantly moisturise and protect dry hair. The mask provides deep conditioning by restructuring the hair’s protective film, which helps hair retain moisture. It also contains a natural UV filter. It left my hair looking super shiny and feeling beautifully soft.
£18.89
www.boots.com

I am forever testing out sun creams as it is so important to protect your skin from the danger of the sun, not to mention premature ageing. Here are my top 3 this month.

Riemann P20 Once A Day
I have always been curious about sun protection that only needs to be applied once a day so itried this one out. It is a quick drying clear, liquid that you apply once 15 minutes before going in the sun. It went on easily and fully absorbed very quickly, it doesn’t have the nicest smell but that wasn’t very noticeable after a couple of minutes. I spent all day in the sun including lots of swimming and although I was worried and kept checking myself for burning I was absolutely fine at the end of the day. My only advice would be make sure you have someone to rub in to all the places you can’t reach, if you miss a single spot you will be in big trouble after a full day in the sun, but if applied properly then this is fantastic as you can just got out and enjoy your day without having to constantly think about re-applying, not to mention its one less thing to carry around with you.
£14.29
www.boots.com

Lierac Sun High Hydration Cream SPF30
I do always like to have a separate sun cream for my face and I loved this one from Lierac. Its great for sun-intolerant and sensitive skin and it absorbs nice and quickly.
£16.85
www.feelunique.com

Piz Buin In Sun Ultra Light Spray SPF 30
I am already a fan of Piz Buin and I was really impressed with this Ultra Light Spray, it went on really easily and absorbed very quickly, it wasn’t sticky or greasy and gave me great protection. I applied it a couple of times throughout the day and didn’t burn at all.
£16.33
www.boots.com

Decleor Aroma Confort Gradual Glow Hydrating Body Milk
If you want a little bit of colour to disguise your pasty pins then I would definitely recommend this one from Decleor. It is a light-textured body milk that is easy to apply and absorbs nicely, it can be used as a daily moistuiriser as it is super hydrating with magnolia essential oil and Tahitian vanilla, while also giving you a gradual yet natural glow that can be built up over the length of your honeymoon.
£26
www.feelunique.com

Hawaiian Tropic Aftersun Coconut Body Butter
This is the most gorgeous after sun, not only does it smell simply divine but it makes thirsty sun soaked skin feel fully hydrated and silky soft to the touch. It absorbs quickly and if you keep it in the fridge its even more soothing if you have had to much sun.
£9.18
www.boots.com

Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey Summer EDT
This is such a gorgeous fragrance for Summer, it is fresh and clean and lasts all day long. With top notes of rose and pear water and floral middle notes of peony and carnation and the delicate base of osmanthus and precious wood enhances the velvety notes of the scent. Divine!
£33.60
www.feelunique.com

Swarovski Crystal Havaianas
For me Havaianas are the best flipflops, they are super comfy and they look great. I love the new styles they have introduced for summer 2011 Havaianas including a range of Swarovski crystal-encrusted flipflops. From full on bling all over the straps to subtle crystal details (like these gold ones). They look absolutely fabulous with tanned feet and you can wear them in the day time and evening. I want a pair in every colour!!
£30
www.havaianas-store.co.uk

Caudalie Vinosource Quenching Sorbet-Creme
This is a lovely moisturizing face cream from Caudalie, it is really light and absorbs quickly in to your skin, making dry and thirsty skin feel fully hydrated again. Tit left my skin feeling really soft and feeing great.
£17
www.feelunique.com

Functionalab Age Defence Antioxidant Serum
This super serum from Functionalab contains a powerful antioxidant complex of five specialised active ingredients to strengthen the skin’s natural defence system against everyday environmental aggressors. It has a non-greasy formula and absorbs nicely in to the skin leaving you with silky smooth base for your make-up.
£55
www.harrods.com

StriVectin-SD Instant Retexturizing Scrub
This retexturizing scrub polishes and primes the skin to help combat wrinkles.
NIA-114 technology in Pro-Niosomes helps stimulate cell renewal, giving healthy, youthful-looking skin. Simply massage gently on to face and neck then rinse off with warm water.
£37
www.spacenk.co.uk

Elemis FreshSkin Face Mask Duo
I really like this duo face mask from Elemis, it comes with double sachets that purify and moisturise your skin. The first sachet is a Deep Clean Purifying Face Mask, it has a blend of natural clays, goji berry extract and frankincense oil to help draw out impurities and refine the skin whilst vitamin E softens and soothes. The second sachet is a Magical Moisture Quenching Face Mask which contains white lupin, artic cranberry seed oil and apple extract to deliver an instant moisture boost to dry skin, while aloe vera gently soothes. After using the both masques my skin felt amazing and look great, as it comes with 3 of each sachet you can use them once a week in the lead up to your big day to get your skin in perfect condition.
£15
www.timetospa.co.uk

Caudalie Premier Cru – The Eye Cream
This is such a lovely eyecream that I now can’t live without, upon application it offers immediate comfort and illuminates the skins appearance, dark spots and shadows simply dissapear. Its anti-ageing ingredients treat all the signs of ageing: wrinkles are smoothed, the upper eyelid is firmed, dark circles, puffiness and dark spots are reduced. The creams silvery, coppery and iridescent pearly particles immediately correct dark circles, brighten up the eyes and remove imperfections. Ps: It can also be used on the lip contour area, two products for the price of one!
£49
www.spacenk.co.uk

Elemis Tranquil Touch Body Cream
This gorgeous body cream from Elemis not only smells divine but it is so rich and creamy that your skin is left feeling amazing. The combination of softening sweet almond oil, rice bran oil and passionflower oil, blend together perfectly with aromatic patchouli and ginger, leaving the skin delicately soft and smelling amazing.
£16
www.timetospa.co.uk

Bobbi Brown SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizer Oil Free
This is the perfect tinted moisturizer if you have oily skin, it gives light moisture, sheer coverage and sun protection all in one, This gel-based formula goes on beautifully and blends perfectly to give you sheer full coverage. Vitamins C and E protect skin from free radical damage, while SPF 15 helps prevent sun damage.
£27
www.bobbibrown.co.uk

Origins Quick Hide Concealer
I really like this concealer from Origins, it covers dark circles, blemishes and redness. It blends in beautifully leaving your skin looking flawless, it also has soft-focus filters that diminish fine lines and flaws.
£12

BM Beauty Mineral Finishing Powder
This natural mineral formula powder from BM Beauty is perfect for adding a touch of radiance to brighten your complexion. It is free from parabens, synthetic dyes and fragrances, fillers, bismuth oxychloride, nano particles and animal products. Simply apply with a large powder brush all over your face.
£8
www.bmbeauty.com

Body Shop Honey Bronze Bronzing Powder
If you want a bit of a glow but don’t want to look like you have been tangoed then you will love this bronzer from The Body Shop, it is perfect for fairer skins as it gives a subtle sunkissed glow to the skin. Use a large powder brush to sweep across cheeks, forehead and nose.
£13
www.thebodyshop.co.uk

Smashbox Blush Rush Blusher in Passion
If you are going for a fresh faced rosy-cheeked look then this is a great blusher from Smashbox. It gives a naturally flushed look that stays putt all day. Simply apply the apples of your cheeks with a large soft brush. The cute compact also has an innovative swivel mirror component for touch ups throughout the day
£18.50
www.debenhams.com

BM Beauty Lash Curling Mascara
I love when I find a good mascara and this one from BM Beauty is fantastic, It went on perfectly separating and coating each individual lash, no clumping or smudging, just gorgeous long curled lashes.
£12
www.bmbeauty.com

L’Occitane Pivoine Flora Lip Shine
This limited edition lip gloss is part of the Pivoine Flora range, it’s the perfect colour for a romantic rosy lip, it has a slight shimmering sheen without being sticky. It also contains softening Peony extract to protect and pamper your lips.
£11
www.uk.loccitane.com

Rodial Glam Balm 2 in 1 Lip and Wrinkle Plumper
This multi-purpose anti-aging skin treatment from Rodial is a must-have, it can be used on your face, lips, neck and hands, it nourishes, refines wrinkles and plumps up collagen on your skin and lips giving you a fuller and firmer appearance. Myrrh extract and vitamin C plump up your lips and smooth out wrinkles. Calendula, Shea butter and vitamin E soothe, hydrate and restore moisture to the skin, leaving it feeling amazingly soft. Ude it in the morning or evening as a daily treatment as well as during the day for a quick fix, it is also amazing for using on flights to restore moisture, I never fly without it now!
£50
www.harveynichols.com

Paul Mitchell – Style Cocktail – Smoothly Ever After
I love these new limited edition Style Cocktails from Paul Mitchell, they come in 4 funky flavours (The Hot Couple, Smoothly Ever After, To Have and to Hold and Big Hair For The Big Day) and come with two products presented in a funky tin. My personal favourite is the Smoothly Ever After, which includes their Super Skinny Serum and Gloss Drops, the perfect partners to get glorious frizz-free sheen! Not only are these fabulous for you but they also make great thank-you presents for your bridesmaids.
£24
www.lookfantastic.com

Clinique Body Airbrush Spray
If you are looking for a good fake tan to give you a nice natural glow on your big day, then this is a great one from Clinique, the aerosol can makes it really easy to apply and works from any angle. The colour starts to develop in less than an hour and fully deepens within 24 hours. The result was streak-free, just be sure to fully rub in after spraying.
£16
www.clinique.co.uk

Agent Provocateur Eau de Parfum Purse Spray
I love this signature fragrance from Agent Provocateur, it is so unique and very sexy, when I was wearing this the other day everyone asked me what perfume I was wearing. It combines saffron oil from India, coriander from Egyptian Jasmine and Vetive from Haiti amongst other exotic elements. A little goes a long way so the bottle will last for ages and its compact size is perfect for slipping in your purse.
£20.95
www.cheapsmells.com

First of all, if time is on your side, use it to plan everything meticulously! If not, and you only have a few weeks till the big day, don’t panic. The event organiser at your chosen venue can be a great support to you – and you should accept their offer of recommendations for photographers, florists, cake makers etc – after all, we do this on a regular basis so we know who the best ones are!

Venue: The best ones tend to be booked up early, but that doesn’t mean they don’t sometimes have cancellations, so try the one you really want first. Be flexible about the day of the week – Thursday and Friday weddings are also popular – or even Sunday. Choose a venue which is used to hosting weddings and civil partnerships, and which is keen to host them. Is the venue licensed for weddings? If so, and you aren’t planning a religious ceremony, it is one less element of the wedding to worry about.

Visit the venue when you are relaxed, and in the right frame of mind to picture your perfect day. Prepare a list of questions in advance so that you don’t forget to ask anything while you are there. You can always contact the venue again later but it is so much better to actually be there to visualise your big day. Don’t be embarrassed to ask to visit more than once – if you have seen quite a few options, you are quite entitled to want to come back again to make sure before finalising your decision.

In addition to the obvious ones about décor, catering etc, the other sort of questions to consider are: parking for guests; public transport and taxis; is there a separate entrance for wedding guests or do they need to come through the main entrance and mix with non-wedding guests. A little thought and planning in the early stages will avoid any mistakes later.

Format: Nowadays many couples decide to invite a few friends and close family to a more formal sit down three-course ‘wedding breakfast’ and then invite more friends and relatives to a relaxed celebration later in the day. Maybe you would like a themed event? Ask the venue when you are having a look around. For example at the Bingham we can provide a BBQ in our lovely riverside garden and some couples (and guests) arrive by boat!

What to drink: While most of us prefer to serve champagne or sparkling wine at some point during the celebration, the other drinks offered can add individuality to your event. How about a bespoke cocktail created specially for you and your partner by the venue’s mixologist? This can be served on arrival, with appropriate canapés, followed by still wines and the good champagne for the speeches? And when it comes to wines, it is sometimes possible to have specially produced commemorative labels for the wine being served. Or, perhaps one country is very special to you – you a planning to honeymoon in Italy for example – so ask about additional wines as the wine list they show you is usually just a selection of their most popular wines. Your venue will be pleased to make suggestions and to advise likely quantities needed.

Your photos: When you visit a potential venue, as well as taking the reception and facilities into account, don’t forget to ask about wedding photo suggestions. The event organiser will have seen many weddings at the venue and can give you suggestions – learn by other couple’s experiences. Also, you don’t want to walk too far for the photos – that will take you away from the reception itself and your guests. The wedding photography should be a record of your happy day – not the event in itself. We have probably all been to a wedding where the photographer takes over and we stand around for ages watching the photos been arranged!

The Wedding Night: This is such a special night – choose somewhere ultra romantic. If the venue is a hotel, or restaurant with rooms, sometimes the bridal suite is offered as part of a wedding package – so make sure you ask before you pay a deposit for somewhere else! It is also sometimes possible to book the whole venue if it is a boutique hotel – then you have exclusive use of the bar, restaurant, bedrooms and banqueting facilities for the duration. At the Bingham we call it ‘Bingham Privée’ – and it is becoming very popular, especially if guests are travelling from far afield.

Questions to ask the venue…

CEREMONY
Where will the bride get ready before the ceremony?
Where will the guests gather before the ceremony?
Will there be someone to take the guests to the ceremony room or do we need to organize this?
Who will get the bride from her room?
What will you do to ensure that no one sees the bride before entering the ceremony room?
Where can we use confetti?

AFTER CEREMONY
Where will the cocktail reception take place?
What if the weather is bad, will there be a plan B?
Will there be a cloakroom or someone to take coats?
Can we have live music?
Is there a music system there for dancing?
Until what time can the guests be outside?
Can we have fireworks or anything outside (if there is an outside space)?
What restrictions are there?
Is there parking for the guests – and if so what if any cost?

WEDDING BREAKFAST
Where will this take place?
Can we have a tasting session for choosing menus?
Where is the top table likely to be situated?
Do you have a microphone for speeches ? And if not, can you organize one?
Will you print menus and prepare a table plan?

SUPPLIERS
What time can the florist come in to set up ?
Can you recommend photographers?
Can you supply wedding favours for the tables?
If we wanted to bring in our own wines, what will be the corkage charge?
What time can the cake be delivered? If required do you have a fridge?
Will the venue be able to do the stationery ?
What time can the guests dance until?

PAYMENT
What type of deposit is necessary to secure the booking?
When does the final payment need to be made?
Who will the point of contact be for the organizing of our wedding?
Who will be the main point of contact on the day?

Find out more about the Bingham’s wedding facilities visit www.thebingham.co.uk

Or to view the Garden Rooms, Bingham’s fabulous suite (with its own entrance, heated terrace and stunning views of the garden and the river) contact the events team on 020 8940 0902

Stoke Park is a 5 AA Star Hotel, located just 35 minutes from London and 7 miles from Heathrow airport, making it an ideal location to host a wedding. Stoke Park combines excellent service, hospitality and food in an elegant, romantic Country House Hotel.

With three licensed rooms and the gorgeous Southern Terrace available, dining facilities for up to 120 guests, 13 Spa treatment rooms, 49 luxurious bedrooms and 14 acres of private gardens offering stunning photographic scenery, Stoke Park will make your day a truly memorable occasion.

Wedding packages include Menu tasting for the Bride and Groom, a consultation with the Spa team, and the Bridal Suite, where chocolate dipped strawberries and a bottle of champagne await you.

Stoke Park has its own dedicated Wedding Coordinator, Michele Connelly, who will ensure every aspect is planned to the highest quality and finest detail, and award-winning Executive Chef, Chris Wheeler, will work with you to ensure your day is truly special.

Wedding Open Day – 18th September 11am-4pm (no entry fee and no need to book)

For further info visit www.stokepark.com

When I think of Jamaica, I think of white sandy beaches, spectacular sunsets and dancing to reggae on the beach whist sipping rum and that’s exactly what I got on my very first visit to this amazing island.

We split our time in Jamacia between the stunning Montego Bay and the Southern town of Negril. These are two very different areas both of which have plenty to offer honeymooners and couples wanting to tie the knot on this stunning Caribbean Island.

Upon arrival in Montego Bay we made our way to the beautiful Half Moon resort which is nestled on a two-mile crescent-shaped beach on Jamaica’s northern coast. This gorgeous resort was the perfect place to start our week of relaxation. Spread over 400-acres and surrounded by lush landscaped gardens, two miles of private white sand beach and the sparkling Caribbean sea, this is a truly heavenly spot to begin your newly married life.

The accommodation at Half Moon comprises of a large number of quaint whitewashed cottages as well as 33 private villas. Each villa features an en-suite bathroom, private swimming pool and your very own butler, cook and housekeeper to attend to your every need. All the accommodation comes with the most spectacular views. Our patio was the perfect place to spend the evening after a hard days relaxing, lying back watching the sun setting over the sea as we sipped on champagne. Later, we had one of the trained masseuses come and give us a blissful massage before sinking in to the large tub for a relaxing hot bubble bath and finally retreating to the enormous bed looking out over the star filled sky.

There is no lack of activities at Half Moon, whether you like to keep busy and active or kick back and relax, their 18 hole golf course, natural dolphin lagoon, 54 swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness centre, equestrian centre, and not to mention their award-winning Fern Tree Spa will keep you as busy or as blissfully relaxed as you choose.

The award winning spa was one of the highlights of our stay. The 68,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor sanctuary for the mind and body was inspired by Jamaica’s lush landscape and centuries-old healing traditions. Here, guests can indulge in a personalised spa experience designed to achieve complete wellness and utter relaxation. With aromatherapy steam rooms, outdoor yoga pavilion and treatments such as West Indies Scalp and Body Massage and Coconut Milk and Sacred Lotus Soak all of your stress will slip away in no time. You can even opt to have your treatments in the Overwater Spa Bunglaow that juts out over the sea on its own wooden pier. Even if you are not having any treatments there are plenty of tucked away areas at the spa where you can lie back and relax with a book or slip into one of the outdoor lagoon pools or waterfalls for a relaxing swim.

There are a number of restaurants at the resort so whether you are in the mood for a beach barbecue, contemporary Caribbean fusion or a four-course meal in your villa, you couldn’t possibly tire of all the exciting options to tempt your palette.

Half Moon is not just perfect for honeymooners, it also makes a fantastic location for weddings. With so many scenic spots across the resort you would be spoilt for choice. Whether you envisage a large beach wedding on the sand or a small intimate candlelit reception under the stars at the old Sugar Mill, their fantastic wedding team will work with you to create your perfect wedding.

There are plenty of other impressive accommodations in Montego Bay such as Silent Waters, one of the most glamorous private homes on the island, which is located on one of the highest mountaintops overlooking Montego Bay making it an ideal wedding location. Highland House which is nestled in an idyllic mountain setting with mango trees, papaya groves, towering palms and vivid gardens, covering 7,000 square feet is another excellent choice. With six bedroom suites, the estate can accommodate up to 12 guests for overnight stays and larger parties for weddings. Another great spot for tying the knot is on Sandals Royal Caribbean Private Island. Their resort in Montego Bay has its own small private island which you can hire exclusively for around £3,000.

Montego Bay has plenty to keep you busy from helicopter rides over the island to zip-lining through the jungle or rafting down the river on a bamboo raft. One of my highlights was a horse riding tour that we did with a local company called Chukka. This was a really relaxing two hour ride though the countryside which ended with the horses going for a swim in the sea which was an amazing experience.

There is also great nightlife in Montego Bay with a wide variety of buzzing spots to eat and drink at. A must visit is Margaritaville where you can dance the night away with lovely rum cocktails and for sunset cocktails there is no better place than Pier 1. For food, some must-visits are The Sugar Mill at Half Moon, The HouseBoat which is a great experience dining on the water, Margarites which is a lovely seafood restaurant and The Native which serves up lovely local cuisine. Of course, no trip to Jamaica would be complete without a visit to Juicy Patties, a fast food chain selling the most delicious traditional Jamaican patties. Don’t be put off by the look of the place, they are truly the most scrumptious snacks, try the beef and cheese patty, you won’t be disappointed!

After a few days of exploring Montego Bay we were ready for the next part of our stay and headed to the beautiful southern town of Negril. There are many fantastic places to stay in this area of the island with a host of small and intimate boutique hotels set on the cliff’s edge overlooking the crystal waters. One such example is the Rock House resort which is a small collection of 34 thatched-roof villas with private sun-bathing decks perched on the edge of the cliffs and another is the Tensing Pen Resort which is a collection of wood, thatch and cut stone cottages and suites, also overlooking the sea. Mixing rustic with luxury, these boutique accommodations offer some of the most romantic experiences for couples looking to escape the larger more commercial resorts.

My favourite accommodation in Negril, however, was The Caves which are part of the Island outpost collection of properties owned by music producer Chris Blackwell. Poised on the limestone cliffs of Negril’s scenic West End strip the resort comprises of just twelve exclusive wood and stone thatch-roofed cottages that are interwoven between two acres of lush vegetation and sea caves.

Each cottage is uniquely designed and decorated giving it a very different feel from the next.

The resort also features a number of decks for sunbathing and relaxing with pools nestled in to the cliffs and the famous ‘jumping’ platforms dotted around where you can leap off the cliffs in to the crystal clear waters and explore the caves. Of course one of the highlights is the resort’s two main caves nestled in to the cliff’s edge where you can have a private candle-lit romantic meal for two or even a cave hot tub with champagne.

The property has a very intimate feel and with only 12 rooms, there are never more than about 25 guests staying. This is definitely one of the most romantic places to stay on your honeymoon and would also make the most stunning wedding venue for a cliff top ceremony and reception.

The nightlife in Negril is fantastic. The Blackwell Rum Bar at The Caves is a great spot for sunset drinks and then why not head out to the famous Ricks Café for some live reggae and dancing, no trip to Jamaica would be complete without a visit.

For food you must try Bourbon Beach, it is a great place to go and eat some traditional jerk chicken and most people agree it’s the best in town. Push Cart at the Rock House resort, which overlooks the sea, is another good place for local flavours and Kuyaba is a lovely beachside spot which serves fantastic seafood.

The activities in Negril are brilliant and range from deep sea fishing to scuba diving and crocodile safaris. One that is not to be missed is The Regency Experience, an amazing boat trip run by Jam Water Sport. Here you are taken out, just the two of you, on an incredible speedboat and given a private tour of some of Negril’s highlights while you sit back and sip some chilled champagne.

With so much variety when it comes to accommodation, activities and experiences Jamaica is a perfect destination for a Caribbean honeymoon. To find our more about Jamaica you can visit www.visitjamaica.com

Getting there

Most of the major airlines fly to Montego Bay and Negril and it is roughly a 10 hour flight from the UK. We flew out with BA in Club World which is a very worthwhile experience for your honeymoon. With large comfy seats that convert in to flat beds, individual TV screens and cabin crew who take care of your every need this is definitely the way to fly. For me there is nothing worse than trying to get to sleep on a plane when you have a long flight but with these comfy beds I found it hard to get through the first movie before I was dozing of in to a peaceful sleep. I was also really impressed with their Club Kitchen which is fully stocked with savory and sweet snacks and a large selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Club World passengers can help themselves at any time during the flight so, of course, I over indulged in the delicious Cornish ice-cream and endless glasses of wine,  a pretty good way to end your honeymoon!

British Airways offers 7 nights at the 5* Half Moon in Jamaica from £1039 per person based on October departures. This includes return flights from Gatwick and room only accommodation, based on two sharing.

You can find out more about flights to Jamaica and Club World on the BA website www.ba.com/jamaica or call 0844 4930758

Pepe Botella opened his first shop selling ceremonial and bridal wear in Alicante 36 years ago. From the outset, he sought to depart from the austerity of the traditional bridal gown, focusing on freedom of expression with bold styles and innovative fabrics. In 1980 he presented his first collection and went on to achieve wide critical acclaim.

After 20 years at the helm, it was time for his daughter to show she had inherited her father’s talent. Lucia Botella spent her childhood surrounded by dresses at the family’s studio. After honing her skills and completing an apprenticeship observing her father, she presented her first collection in 2000. Drawing on endless sources of inspiration from 1950′s glamour to haute couture to beach life, Lucia has proved herself a fearless innovator, continuously moving the brand forward.

Now positioned at the avant-garde of bridal design this Spanish powerhouse produces 2 bridal collections per year: the Gaudi collection for press and the Mainline collection.

With over 150 stockists and 3 stores in Spain alone, Pepe is one of the leading players in the international bridal industry following Pronovias and Rosa Clara. In recent years their designs have travelled far beyond the catwalk in Barcelona to Latin and North America, Japan and all over Europe.

In 2011, Pepe Botella joined other top names for the second time to present their collection to UK buyers at the White Gallery in London. The new 2012 collection ‘Despertar’ (meaning ‘Dawn’) represents a return to its Latin roots with dramatic and romantic reinterpretations of classic Spanish influences alongside refreshingly modern crisp clean lines and body hugging silhouettes.

You can view the collection at www.pepebotellanovias.com

The Trunk Show dates are the 29th & 30th of July at Browns Bride.

To make an appointment contact verawang@brownsfashion.com or call 0207 514 0090

There is a £30 charge redeemable against any purchase

Vera Wang For Browns Bride
59 Brook Street
London
W1

The DVDs…

Sex & The City Shoe Box Set Seasons 1-6
No girls night in would be complete without a Sex & The City DVD session, weather you sit through disc after disc or pick out your favourite classic episodes, this is a must-have box set for your girly night in.
£70
www.amazon.co.uk

Friends 15th Anniversary Complete Collection Seasons 1-10
Another classic box set of course is Friends, this 15th Anniversary collection has every single episode on 40 discs, so get ready for a serious back to back Friendsathon!
£54.97

www.amazon.co.uk

The Music…

Girls Night In
A girls night in just wouldn’t be a girls night in without a bit of a drunken boogie! This fabulous soundtrack is perfect for a little reminiscing with the girls, featuring a collection of contemporary tracks mixed with timeless ‘sing-a-long’ classics such as Holding Out For A Hero, Footloose, Stand By Your Man and It’s Raining Men.
£4.99
www.hmv.com

Glee The Music – Season 1 Volume 1
This Glee soundtrack will have you singing and dancing until the early hours of the morning, it features 17 songs from the first series such as Don’t Stop Believin‘, Gold Digger, Somebody To Love and ‘Can’t Fight This Feeling’. I feel a song and a dance coming on…
£4.99
www.hmv.com

The Snacks….

Hotel Chocolat Sleep Over Kit
A girls night in just wouldn’t be complete without some serious chocolate munching. The complete sleepover kit from Hotel Chocolat is chocolate heaven! Filled with chocolate treats such as Cherry Pop Slab, Liquid Caramels, ‘Battle of the’ Batons, Banana Splits and some Milky Liquid Chocolat to finally send you off in to a dreamy chocolatey sleep at the end of the night.
£25
www.hotelchocolat.co.uk

Penn State Popcorn
If chocolate isn’t your thing then you will love the new popcorn range from Penn State Snacks that has just launched this Summer. With two yummy flavours; Monterey Jack Cheese Popcorn and Sweet & Salt, both are delicious and perfect for munching through a movie marathon.
£1.29.
www.pennstate.co.uk

Ben & Jerry’s
If like me you are a huge icecream fan then you will go crazy for these two new fair trade flavours from Ben & Jerry’s. The long awaited comeback of classic favourite Fossil Fuel (loaded with yummy chocolate cookie pieces, swirls of chocolate fudge sauce and new chocolate peace signs) and the brand new Coconutterly Fair (chocolate icecream with coconut caramel swirls and chocolatey covered coconut caramel crunch pieces) They are both completely delicious, you will probably need a tub each to avoid fighting over the last scoop!! YUM!!!
£4.29
www.sainsburys.co.uk

Green & Black’s Organic Miniature Collection
These cute miniature bars from Green n Blacks are perfect for sharing. With a mixture of milk and dark chocolate you will find every flavour from their milk chocolate with crunchy butterscotch or roasted almonds, to their bittersweet dark chocolate with sour cherries or my personal favourite crystallised ginger, there is something delicious for everyone!
£5.49
www.ocado.com

Maison Du Chocolat Les Attentions
One of my favourite treats for a girl’s night in is a box of Maison Du Chocolat’s Les Attentions. Filled with a selection of 14 exquisite milk and dark chocolates, you will find it hard to share them around!
www.lamaisonduchocolat.co.uk

The Wine…

Gallo Turning Leaf Pinot Grigio
I do love a nice bottle of Pinot Grigio and what better way to wash down all those snacks than with a nice gold glass (or three). This is a delicious crisp and fruity wine with ripe apple and pear flavours.
£7.40
www.tesco.com

Fish Hoek Shiraz
This smooth, full-bodied Shiraz goes perfectly with dark chocolate, what better excuse to indulge in my two favourite things. This has ripe, juicy red-berry fruit combined with vanilla and black pepper. Delicious!
£7
www.waitrosewine.com

Nicolas Feuillatte Rosé Champagne NV
I like nothing better than a nice cold glass of pink bubbles and this delicate pink rosé is simply divine. It has wonderful raspberry notes and is perfect for toasting the bride-to-be, again and again!
£20
www.majestic.co.uk

Set in beautiful countryside at the foot of the Blackstairs Mountains, the Castle is the ancient home of the Durdin-Robertsons and is presently lived in by four generations of the family. The latest generation have very recently relocated from London and are keen to revitalise Huntington Castle with innovative ideas and initiatives.

“It’s all about sharing this wonderful building with people who will appreciate its character and history” says Clare Durdin-Robertson who until recently lived in Battersea with her husband Alexander.
“We want to open up the Castle,” adds Alexander “whether it’s a wedding party or a painting course, we want people to come and enjoy themselves, where they can be sure of a warm welcome as well as a totally unique experience.”

Huntington is only 60 miles from Dublin, yet it feels like a different world. The Castle has been lovingly restored and boasts a stunning bridal suite as well as a self- catering flat – perfect for the bride and her entourage to prepare for the big day.

The venue is licensed to hold marriages on the premises. But for couples wanting a church service, there are two churches within a mile.

The beautiful grounds are perfect for photographs and a 17th Century barn theatre in the courtyard makes a wonderfully stylish dining experience for guests, surrounded by history and heritage.

To find out more visit www.huntingtoncastle.com

Last week I attended the launch party for online boutique Olivier Laudus’ (www.olivierlaudus.com) first consultation studio. The studio is based downstairs at the award-winning hair salon Jordan Burr (

Stylish and chic and keeping with the Olivier Laudus brand’s contemporary feel, the studio is decorated with flock wallpaper with a black and cream theme and provides a lovely backdrop for the consultations and has been well received by brides.

Opening a consultation studio was the brain-child of Sangeeta Laudus, co-founder of Olivier Laudus, after a year of meeting with clients on an informal basis at Jordan Burr to show them pieces. Sangeeta says : “Being an online boutique our clients welcomed the opportunity to be able to try different designs especially when it comes to hair accessories (tiaras, headbands etc) and it was great being able to call on the expertise of the stylists in the salon to discuss bridal hair styles and which pieces work with different hair types. We also really enjoyed the opportunity to meet our clients and give them personal attention and advice which is very key to our business. Setting up a permanent base in the salon was the logical next step and we are really excited with our new venture and future collaborations with Jordan Burr.”

Consultations are by appointment, with evening and weekend meetings available (63 Wigmore Street, London WIU 1PX).

Contact Sangeeta to book an appointment

Email: sangeeta@olivierlaudus.com Tel: 020 8374 1239

Johanna is recognised as one of the UK’s most innovative and talented designers and her collections reflect the ever changing nature of the bridal market and the varied tastes and venues of today’s brides.

She recently showed her new 2012 collection on the catwalk at the new international White Gallery Bridal Fair in London and wowed the crowds with her fresh, innovative designs, which perfectly capture the “modern classic” aesthetic, to which today’s brides aspire.

Johanna Hehir offers a well marketed and diverse range of styles, which are designed to appeal to most tastes and budgets, from her central London salon in Marylebone.

She is now stocked by a growing number of bridal retailers in both the UK and abroad with new international stockists in Greece, the Republic of Ireland and as of this year, several Johanna Hehir designs are available at Kleinfeld, the most prestigious bridal store in New York City.

You can view the collection at www.johanna-hehir.co.uk

Matthew Williamson’s first range of bridal wear is inspired by iconic styles within our ready to wear collections from the past twelve years.

Occasion wear pieces have always been a staple category within Matthew Williamson’s ready to wear collections and have often been worn by customers for weddings in the past and so a full bridal range was  a natural extension.

Signature styles have been reworked and translate into perfect bridal gowns that will appeal to both the classic and contemporary bride.

The starting point for the collection has been to capture the essence of the brand and all its signature elements demonstrating a feeling of luxury and opulence. Each garment features a high level of craftsmanship evident in the gentle forms of the silhouettes, the use of fine embroidery, ornate beading and luxurious natural fabrics.

Long and short corset column gowns give a lean silhouette and structure and are then softened with an artfully draped overlay of soft ivory tulle. Hand sewn ivory feathers strewn across the tulle creates an enchanting ethereal effect.

Elsewhere buttermilk silk satin has been printed with a burn out technique of a hand painted abstract winter wonderland design providing a modern, softly textured fabric draped into a classical strapless gown. To compliment, bridesmaid dresses in the same fabric are cut into softly draping one shoulder dresses, fitted at the waist.

For a modern take, a knee length silk chiffon shift dress has been embroidered by hand with a floral design. Dense beading and embroidery techniques trail across the fabric creating high impact couture like effect.

Jewel embedded mink and rabbit fur cropped shrugs have been designed with the collection in mind to lengthen the silhouette and add a real sense of luxury to such an opulent occasion.

Relaxed beach style weddings are considered with sheer ivory silk chiffon maxi dresses, plunging necklines and waterfall ruffled skirts embedded with Swarovski crystals.

You can view the gorgeous collection at www.matthewwilliamson.com/shop/uk/bridal

No appointments needed, it is first come first served but make sure you are there early so you don’t miss out.

Location

Browns Bride

12 Hinde St

London. W1

Date 3^rd July, 11am-5pm.

Contact details: 02075140056 - brownsbride@brownsfashion.com

Brides-to-be can save up to 70% this week on stunning gowns by Caroline Castigliano as well as other international wedding dress designers! Experts will help you find your perfect wedding dress with an amazing selection of dresses to choose from!

At the sale you could save up to 70% from Caroline Castigliano, Atelier Aime, Jenny Packham, Sharon Hoey & more.

To attend the sale, visit www.bridaldesignersale.com, simply choose a date and one of their consultants will call you to book you an appointment at the sumptuous London W1 Caroline Castigliano boutique.

Appointments are limited and available on a first come first served basis so make sure you don’t miss out and book online today!

Royal bridesmaid dress designer, Nicki Macfarlane, has introduced to her ready-to-wear collection the much-anticipated version of the dresses she made for The Duchess of Cambridge earlier this year.

The ‘Eliza’ is given structure and silhouette by layering ivory silk organza over wild silk while a box-pleated skirt sits over a full net underskirt. Pretty puffed sleeves are finished with three tiny buttons; the skirt is edged with a delicate lace trim and a pleated sash is tied at the back in a sumptuous bow. As with all Nicki’s ready-to-wear collection, brides can choose from a range of beautiful colour sashes, allowing them to personalise their bridesmaids and flowergirls.

The Eliza is available from aged 2 to 12, priced from £265

Visit her website www.nickimacfarlane.com

If you are anything like me then shopping for your honeymoon is almost as exciting as shopping for your wedding. Here is a run down of some of my must-have items to take with you on your honeymoon….

Polaroid Soul Sunglasses

It’s so important to have a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the harmful rays of the sun, not to mention to add a bit of glamour to your honeymoon look. But it can also be quite annoying not having a decent pair so I would suggest investing in some Polarized sunglasses. Polarized lenses are designed to reduce the glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow and glass, making them perfect for water and winter sports as well as driving.

I adore these stylish Soul sunglasses from Polaroid, not only do they look fabulous they have premium polarized lenses with Filter category 3 and 100% UV400 protection, ensuring your eyes will be completely safe, giving the best possible glare-free protection.

£79

www.polaroidsunglasses.co.uk

Havaianas Metallic Gold Logo Flip Flops

I have always been a huge fan of Havaianas, not only do they look super cute they are so comfortable, making them a must-have for your honeymoon!

These limited gorgeous editions are fab, in a dark chocolate brown with a metallic gold Havaiana signature across the strap they go with everything from day-time sundresses to denim shorts or evening dresses. You can wear them all day long and won’t experience any rubbing or blisters that I find so common with other flipflop brands.

£29.99

www.rubbersole.co.uk

Seasalt Beach Bag

I’m always on the hunt for a stylish large beach bag, big enough for me to fit everything in. Well this 100% organic cotton canvas bag from Seasalt Cornwall is perfect. You can fit everything from your beach towel, book, camera and suncream and still have room left over for a few more bits and pieces, it even has a bottle holder pocket so its perfect for taking on a romantic picnic to the beach. Plus it has an inside pocket for your valuables.

40cm length x 48cm width x 17cm depth

£45

www.seasaltcornwall.co.uk

La Senza Bikinis

I am completely in love with the 2011 Swimwear collection from La Senze, there is such a great selection to suit all shapes and sizes. Being a busty girl myself I was really pleased to find a lot of styles that went up to a large cup size and even more pleased to be able to buy the tops and bottoms separately to ensure you have a perfect fit in both.

Two of my favourites are these polka dot styles, they are super cute and very flattering. The black and white set even has a gorgeous skirt/brief which is perfect for us girls who might like to cover up our thighs and bum cheeks a little more.

Tops £20-£22, Briefs £12, Skirt Brief £20

http://www.lasenza.co.uk/swimwear/swimwear.htm

CELIA CRUZ KAFTAN

White Stuff has a gorgeous range of kaftans this season. I adore this Celia Cruz one, it has long-sleeves and a fun colourful print with sweet shell buttons and pockets. It reaches the top of the thigh and is perfect for throwing on over a bikini at the beach or for wearing with a pair of denim shorts for wondering around. 100% cotton and machine washable.

£39.95

www.whitestuff.com

LIQUIS – Antler’s lightest ever hard roller case

I never knew I could get this excited about a suitcase! But the new Liquis range of lightweight suitcases from Antler are amazing. They are so incredibly light and the gliding wheels allow you to wheel the suitcase in any direction or angle. Even with the suitcase crammed full it feels like a dream to wheel around.

It has a push button handle, patented gliding wheels, TSA fixed combination lock, fully lined interior with mesh zip divider, protective travel and storage cover, 10 year warranty. It measures 68 x 46 x 29 cm and weighs just 3kg. I cannot recommend this highly enough!

£229 (63 Lires)

www.antler.co.uk

Sassi Holford will be holding a sample sale from the 2nd to the 16th of July. There will be amazing reductions of up to 75% on selected sample gowns from both the 2010 and 2011 collections.

The Bespoke Wardrobe of Danbury, Essex are excited to announce they’re hosting a fabulous vintage inspired charity event this Saturday in aid of The Helen Rollason Cancer Charity. To make this an extra special event they teamed up with the Middleton’s Royal Wedding Shoe Designer Emmy Scarterfield from Emmy custom made wedding shoes (who designed the shoes for Carole and Pippa Middleton), Tallulah Lingerie, Vintage Teas and RSVP’s.

The event will take place between 11am and 3pm. It’s the perfect opportunity for Brides, Mums and Maids to view the most beautiful collection of wedding dresses by the country’s most acclaimed designers, chat with Emmy whilst viewing her entire shoe collection or browse Tallulah Lingerie over a slice of cake and a cup of tea. All whilst supporting a worthwhile cause!

Although no appointment is necessary, please call Mary or Reggie on 01245 225500 to RSVP.

Date: 18th June
Time: 11am – 4pm

Neal’s Yard Wild Rose Daily Moisturiser SPF30
To keep your skin safe and looking youthful it is vital to have a good moisturizer with a high SPF factor. This Wild Rode moisturizer from Neals Yard it perfect for keeping your skin looking and feeling fabulous while keeping it safe from harmful UVA/UVBrays. It nourishes and protects with a 100% mineral sun filter, antioxidant-rich wild rosehip oil and milk thistle to defend skin against ageing UV damage. It leaves skin with a beautifully soft velvety finish, ready to apply your make-up or simply face the day prepared and better protected.
The first sunscreen to be certified by the Soil Association
£23.50
www.nealsyardremedies.com

Vitality Cleansing Mousse
After spending all day in the sun, with sweat, sunscreen and pollution taking its toll on your skin it is imperative to have a good cleanser to get your face squeaky clean. This lovely multi-vitamin enriched cleansing mousse from Vie is perfect for washing away all the daily grime. With its scrummy zesty scent of orange, it’s also a perfect for waking you up in the morning.
£8
www.vieathome.com

Caudalie Vine Body Butter
When away I love having a scrummy body lotion that smells delicious. With a sweet and intoxicating fragrance, this creamy body butter is rapidly absorbed and leaves your skin hydrated and feeling velvety soft. It is rich in moisturizing Vinolevure® and natural ultra-nourishing butters, grape-seeds and shea butter making it ideal for turning dry skin soft to the touch.
£19
www.boots.com

REN Moroccan Rose Otto Sugar Body Polish
If you want to prolong your sunkissed glow then it is important to make sure your skin is in the best possible condition, the most important thing to do is have a good scrub with a body polish to get rid of any rough skin. This gently exfoliating sugar body polish from REN is perfect for removing dead cells and leaving your skin silky smooth, energized and not to mention deliciously scented with rose. It is made with fair trade Rose extract from Southern Morocco and sugar from Paraguay.
£32
www.renskincare.com

Laura Mercier – Tinted Moisturiser with SPF 20
I hate wearing heavy foundation when I’m away, so a tinted moisturiser is the perfect solution. I love this one from Laura Mercier, it glides on to your skin giving you a flawless sheer finish with a subtle hint of colour that stays put all day long. It has SPF 20 to protect your skin, which is very important, it features an antioxidant vitamin complex that acts a free radical scavenger to protect the skin from even the most aggressive effects of the environment.
£33
www.johnlewis.com

Origins Brighter By Nature SPF30 Skin Tone Correcting Powder
There is nothing worse than doing your make-up only to have it slide off your face! I always use a powder to set my base and this one from Origins is a bit of a wonder powder, it not only sets your make-up but the revolutionary formula helps fix flaws, block skin-damaging UV rays, give long-lasting, natural finish, plus it controls oil for hours without settling into pores. Dark spots and discolouration disappear from the second you sweep it on. Oil and talc free.
Best for dark spots & discolouration
£24
www.origins.co.uk

Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit
I don’t go anywhere without concealer and this kit from Bobbi Brown is fantastic for covering up any blemishes and hiding those dark circles after late nights! The Creamy Concealer blends easily leaving skin looking flawless. The pressed powder then sets the concealer for long-lasting wear. The handy compact is perfect for throwing in your bag for little touch-ups throughout the day and evening.
£23.50
www.bobbibrown.co.uk

Clarins Mosaique Summer Bronzing Compact – Limited Edition
I can’t live without a good bronzer, even when you are pasty white it never fails to pick you up and give you a healthy looking complexion. This gorgeous limited edition compact from Clarins contains a super-sheer multi-toned bronzing powder pressed and embossed with a mosaic motif that gives you a fantastic radiant glow. It is subtly fragranced with Clarins Eau Sunshine which will instantly conjure up happy feelings.
£26
www.boots.com

Clinique Chubby Stick in Whoppin Watermelon
I do love a good tinted lipbalm and these new Chubby Sticks from Clinique are fantastic! They come in a wide variety of colours and provide a sheer hint of colour that glides on effortlessly, leaving behind a natural blush of colour and sheen. The highly moisturising formula uses a blend of Shea Butter, Mango Seed Butter and Jojoba Seed Oil to help protect and pamper lips
£13.50
www.clinique.co.uk

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Eyeshadow Cream
I’m completely in love with these creamy eyeshadows from Estee Lauder. They deliver intense colour that stays put all day long. The creamy formula goes on smoothly, blends easily and leaves a beautiful pearly colour finish. I adore Golden Sand for day-time then layer up with Golden Dust to add a hint of glamour for the evening.
£16.50
www.esteelauder.co.uk

Clinique Lash Power Waterproof Mascara
I’m always on the hunt for a good waterproof mascara and this one from Clinique didn’t let me down! It stayed put all day long and didn’t smudge even when my face was dripping with sweat. It went on beautifully and made my lashes look full and long. It was also super easy to remove at the end of the day.
£15
www.clinique.co.uk

Mark Hill Style & Go Travel Dryer
I can not go away without a travel hairdryer, this one from Mark Hill is great, it is just the right size and does a great job. The air outlet is encased in Tourmaline emitting negative ions, this continuous ionic output smoothes down the cuticle leaving hair smooth, shiny and frizz-free. Just what you need when you are away in the heat.
£39.99
www.boots.com

Moroccanoil Hair Treatment
I am a huge fan of this oil hair treatment from Moroccanoil and now I never go away without it. It is great for using at home on a daily basis but even more so when you are honeymooning in the heat. The treatment helps eliminate frizz, easily detangles your locks and provides long term conditioning, softens thick and unmanageable hair, helps build flexible strength, restores the shine and softness and even protects against environmental damage, not to mention it smells divine!! My hair gets really frizzy on top with flyaway hairs, especially once dry straight after I have washed it, just a teeny bit of Moroccaoil rubbed between my palms and smoothed over my hair makes the world of difference!
£30.45
www.lookfantastic.com

Makebelieve Self Tan Lotion
As much as I love having a tan I am dead against lying in the sun baking my skin, so the only way to achieve a fabulous tan without causing damage to your skin is to fake it!! Makebelieve Self Tan Lotion is a great fake tan that develops within a few hours of applying. It gave me an even looking subtle tan, and smells great, which is highly unusal for fake tans. I would recommend this one for fairer skin tones.
£30.64
www.boots.com

Sienna x eXtend and Perfect Gradual Tan
This is a great gradual fake tan which you can build up day by day as your honeymoon progresses (also a great trick for your honeymoon pictures). The rich moisturising cream is applied all over and rubbed in thoroughly resulting in a subtl sunkissed glow that is streak-free.
£15.95
www.sienna-x.co.uk

Bronze Goddess Soleil
I’m all about the fragrances when I go away and this Bronze Goddess Soleil ozzes summer from the second you spray it. A citrus floral fragrance that blends sparkling citrus essences with a fresh and floral aura and an unexpected, yet sensuously feminine solar facet. With notes of sweet tangerine and lemon tree petitgrain, neroli Tunisia, Moroccan orange blossom, Indian sambac, grapefruit tree blossoms and pink lily nectar, you will be in absalout holiday heaven!
£38
www.boots.com

Korres Holiday In Greece
For those who don’t like taking lots of products away with them this gorgeous travel set from Korres is perfect. Even if you are not visiting the Greek islands on your honeymoon you will love this set. A combination of travel sized hair and body care products with traditional Greek scents, the set includes Aloe and Soapwort shampoo 50ml, Basil Lemon Showergel 50ml, Basil Lemon Body Milk 50ml, Guava Showergel 50ml & Guava Body Butter 50ml. All the products are simply divine!
£15
www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Sranrom Feel Good Massage Oil
There is nothing quite like a good massage, but I discovered something even better than that when using this massage oil. It has an icy-cool blend of Thai peppermint and spearmint that instantly uplifts and refreshes and when my other half used this on my slightly sunburnt back it was like a gift from heaven. My tip pop it in the fridge and use it to give each other a massage after a say in the sun.
£16
www.sranrom.co.uk

Jurlique Sun Lotion SPF 30
Sun Protection is so important so I am giving you three of my current favourite lotions. Firstly Australian brand Jurlique is an all natural sun protection made from ingredients grown on their bio-dynamic farm in Adelaide. This will protect your skin without the nasty, clogging chemicals we associate with normal sun creams. It has A broad spectrum of protection against exposure to harmful UVA/UVB rays. It rubbed in nicely and gave great protection.
£40
www.jurlique.co.uk

Decleor Protective Hydrating Body Milk SPF30
I really love this one from Decleor, it not only smells lovely (it contains Tahiti Vanilla, Rose Essential Oil) but it rubbed in and absorbed super quickly, leaving my skin completely non greasy. The protection was great, I was in the sun all day and didn’t get even a little bit pink.
£23
www.decleor.co.uk

NIA 24 Sun Damage Prevention SPF 30
This duo-action damage prevention and 100% mineral sunscreen is great. A weightless, oil-free lotion that absorbs really quickly and doesn’t leave you feeling sticky or greasy. It gives broad-spectrum protection and Pro-Niacin repairs past damage and promotes skin health.
£38
www.spacenk.co.uk

Decleor Hydra Floral Anti-Pollution Flower Nectar Moisturising Cream
For your big day you want your skin looking as gorgeous as possible so it is important to use a good moisturizer. I adore this rich and soothing moisturiser from Decleor, not only does it smell lovely it leaves your skin feeling amazingly soft and hydrated. The lotion provides continuous “drip-feed” hydration, reinforced by the technology of aquaporins, true “water channels”, combined with an anti-pollution plant active ingredient to protect the skin against harsh environmental elements.
£26.50
www.feelunique.com

Intraceuticals Rejuvenate Daily Serum
This amazing Rejuvenate Daily Serum is loved by celebrities like Madonna and I can now understand why! Intraceuticals Rejuvenate Daily Serum promotes natural collagen and elastin production to improve your skins texture and elasticity. It applies Hyaluronic Acid and delivers antioxidants Vitamin E and Vitamin C to the skin. It works so quickly, hydrating deep into the dermis of the skin to give instant results to the way your skin looks and feels. It creates the perfect canvas for your make-up application and made my skin look plumped-up, fresh and rested.
£192.95
www.shop.juliahart.co.uk

Rodial Glamtox SPF 18 50ml
Another great product for achieving instant results without the surgery is Rodial Glamtox. Infused with an SPF 18 moisturiser and micro-injected hyaluronic acid, Glamtox combines daily hydration with wrinkle-plumping agents. It can be used as a daily moisturiser with SPF 18 sun protection, an instant wrinkle filler or an eye cream. I find the best way to apply these products for them to penentrate is to dab them in rather the rub them in, it definitely made my skin look plumper, but is a touch on the greasy side which is fine for me but not for people who are prone to greasy skin. It has tiny shimmery particlaes which gave my skin a lovely dewy radiant glow
£100
www.harveynichols.com

BareMinerals Pure Transformation Night Treatment
I loved the idea of something working at night to make my skin look better and I was not disappointed with this Pure Transformation Night Treatment from BareMinerals. This concentrated powder formula replenishes skin while you sleep, powered by its proprietary 100 per cent pure RareMinerals ActiveSoil complex. It reduces the appearance of pores, increases luminosity and delivers faster cell turnover – resulting in miraculous skin-renewing benefits. Simply apply to your face at night before bed after cleansing and moisturizing and wake up looking noticeably better!
£45
www.selfridges.com

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
Keeping your skin squeaky clean is a big part of having lovely skin. This water-soluble Deep Cleansing Oil from DHC contains a rich blend of skin-loving vitamin E and hydrating olive oil. It helps unclog pores by clearing impurities and make-up, leaving your face a grime-free zone. Massage in to skin to dissolve make-up and dirt and simply rinse away with warm water to leave skin fresh and clean.
£18.50
www.dhcuk.co.uk

Elemis Tranquil Touch Creamy Body Wash
Sp@Home Body Exotics is a lovely new range from Elemis that is all about indulging in the most exquisite ingredients from around the world and restoring daily equilibrium. This luxuriously rich and creamy body wash contains natural sweet almond oil, that leaves your skin feeling amazing. Further enriched with aromatic oils of patchouli, cedarwood and vetivert that help promote feelings of wellbeing and serenity. Perfect for keeping relaxed.
£18.40
www.timetospa.co.uk

Whistling Cow Relaxing Body Lotion
I love this new range from Cowshed, this gorgeous body lotion blends essential oils of Lavender and Eucalyptus to restore harmony and clarify the mind whilst providing intense moisturisation, which is just the calming effect you need on the morning of your wedding. It absorbed quickly and left my skin feeling wonderful.
Cowshed uses only the highest quality pure essential oils and avoids the use of preservatives and synthetics. All its products are plant-based and contain naturally-derived ingredients.
£13
www.cowshedonline.com

Smashbox Sheer Focus Tinted Moisturizer
This lightweight, oil-free tinted moisturizer from Smashbox is packed with vitamins and anti-aging peptides for naturally radiant skin. It glides on like a dream and simply melts in to your skin leaving it looking flawless. The unique citrus honey moisturization technology nourishes as it absorbs excess oil throughout the day, and SPF 15 guards against sun damage.
£25.50
www.debenhams.com

Nouba Hydrostress Foundation
This moisturizing and anti-stress foundation gives great coverage, blending in beautifully and evenly.
The foundation is based on saccarmoices (lactic) ferments having detoxicant, emollient and relaxing effects for the skin, which has to be a good thing for your big day when you want to be as relaxed and stress-free as possible.
£26.50
www.bebeautifulboutique.co.uk

MeMeMe Correct & Perfect
I love this little concealing pot from MeMeMe, it contains a hydrating cream concealer and mattifying setting powder to hide tell-tale dark circles & blemishes.
After you have applied your foundation, dab on the concealer to problematic areas, leave for a few seconds then use a small powder brush to apply the setting powder to achieve a perfect finish all day long.
£7.50
www.mememecosmetics.co.uk

Laura Mercier Bronzing Pressed Powder in Matte Bronze
To add a little bit of colour to your complexion sweep this gorgeous subtle bronzer across your cheeks and bridge of your nose for a subtle sunkissed glow. The silky smooth bronzing powder glides on evenly giving the skin a soft luminosity.
£26
www.johnlewis.com

Smashbox Soft fusion lights – Baked starburst
For a shimmery finish, sweep a little of this powder across the. The illuminating formula softens the way light reflects on your skin and wakes up your complexion for a radiant look.
£21
www.debenhams.com

BareMineral Pretty Amazing Lipcolour in Charisma
This is a brilliant lip colour from BareMinerals, it has a luxuriously rich texture, with a highly pigmented formula, the amazing lip colour gives the colour and coverage of a lipstick but with a high gloss finish, it is not drying at all like many long-lasting lip products and the wide range of colours mean there is a shade to suit everyone!
£15
www.asos.com

L’Occitane Petals Eye Quartet
I adore this limited edition eyeshadow quartet from L’Occitane, not only does it come in the cutest packaging ever but all four shades are divine! Enriched with softening Peony extract, the 4 eye shadows of rose, beige and purplish shades create the perfect combination to quickly take you from day to evening. It even includes a concealed slide-out mirror.
£22
www.uk.loccitane.com

Bobbi Brown No Smudge Mascara
This long-wearing, waterproof mascara by Bobbi Brown is fantastic! It defines, curls and lengthens lashesand doesn’t smudge, clump or flake at all. The patented brush coats individual lashes evenly and it was easy to build up coats to create a more dramatic effect. It came off easily at the end of the day with eye make-up remover, definitely a winner!
£18
www.bobbibrown.co.uk

Remington Pearl Wand
If like me you have dead straight hair and want to create a bit of volume for your big day then you will love this Pearl Wand from Remington. The latest in styling innovation it has a high-tech barrel with an innovative coating that makes it super smooth. Precious pearl power incorporated into the Advanced Ceramic coating of the barrel makes it eight times smoother and five times longer lasting than standard Ceramic wands. It gave my hair the most beautiful soft romantic curls. Simply wrap strands of hair around the barrel, holding the cool tip at the end and in seconds create boho-chic bouncy curls with just a twirl.
£25.95
www.boots.com

Ojon Damage Reverse Shampoo & Conditioner
For super healthy and shiny looking hair I would definitely recommend Ojon’s Damage Reverse Shampoo & Conditioner. Your hair is weakest when wet which amplifies any damage you already have. This luxurious gel fortified with pure Ojon oil, Wheat Protein and creamy coconut derived cleansers transforms into a rich lather that actually begins to help repair damaged hair in the shower. It smoothes ruffled cuticles and unwinds tangles to prevent breakage. Hydrates and helps restore health. It also smells great too.
Shampoo £20, conditioner £21.50
www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Jean Paul Gaultier “Classique” Summer Fragrance EDT
Body art has always been a source of inspiration for Jean Paul Gaultier, which he reinterprets by printing tattoos on evanescent fabrics or tattooing his models directly onto their skin… For Summer 2011, the designer offers us his new vision of tattooing on the Classique Summer Fragrance bottle.
I have always been a fan of the Jean Paul Gaultier’s fragrances and this is my favourite to date! With Top notes of Tangerine, Lemon, Rose and Orange Blossom, Middle notes of Jasmine,Woodsy note, Ylang-Ylang,, Lily-of-the-Valley and White Iris and Base notes of Vanilla, Musk and Plant Amber, you will not be able to resist this fragrance (and your husband-to-be will not be able to resist you).
£33.15
www.feelunique.com

Urban Decay Urban Bride
To celebrate the June 22 launch of the hilarious new comedy Bridesmaids. Urban Decay has brought out this fabulous limited edition ‘Urban Bride’ Gift set that contains all their cult classics, such as; Razor Sharp Ultra-Definition Finishing Powder, Eyeshadow Primer Potion (full-sized), Supercurl Curling Mascara, Lip Junkie Lipgloss in Midnight Cowboy, All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray and Marshmallow Sparkling Lickable Body Powder.
£25
www.debenhams.com

Ajala Spa Warming Body Oil
Ajala Spa is a luxurious destination spa located in the shadow of London’s beautiful St. Paul’s Cathedral. Offering a range of holistic and beauty treatments and professional expertise in comfortable, ambient surroundings, the Ajala Spa is designed to breathe new vitality into all its visitors. Ajala Spa is a luxurious destination in London spas.
A sublime treat for both skin and senses, Ajala Spa therapeutic Relaxing Body Oil is infused into a pure base of skin softening soya bean and sweet almond oil
£25
www.ajalaspa.com

This autumn, London introduces the ultimate in luxury wedding shows, aptly named The Luxury Wedding Show London. The doors open from the 22^nd October 2011 at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery on the King’s Road for a weekend of lavish shopping. This very exciting and über luxurious show boasts the finest hand-picked selection of wedding experts, where planning the big day is a luxury in itself.

The Luxury Wedding Show London brings the UK’s most influential names in the wedding industry together for an exclusive two-day event, catering for those bridal parties who are looking for the finest suppliers. Offering everything from accessories and bridal wear to the most stunning venues and honeymoon destinations, visitors can plan the most perfect wedding with minimal work.

Ashley Roberts, The Luxury Wedding Show London Event Director comments,

“Our first Luxury Wedding Show promises to be an extraordinary event. Bringing together the cream of wedding experts from across the UK, the show will be London’s premier bridal showcase with a host of specialists on hand to help create your perfect luxury wedding.”

Brides are invited to take a seat at the premiere catwalk show whilst sipping on a glass of POMMERY champagne and enjoy the latest collections from top bespoke bridal designers including Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, Marchesa from Browns Brides, Temperley and David Fielden.

The most influential names in the industry will be on hand to give their expert advice and top tips. Private consultations are available with premier wedding planner Mark Niemierko who opens his ‘studio’ for inspirational advice and top hairstylist Errol Douglas who will be able to help with any hair quandaries and answer any burning questions. Other exhibitors on hand to give guidance include private concierge company Quintessentially, bridal photographer Julia Boggio, floral designers McQueens and Phillippa Craddock and occasionwear designer Claire Thorogood.

Find out more about the show at www.theluxuryweddingshowlondon.co.uk

Craft Central launches its first wedding fair in June – Craft Central Gets Hitched is the ultimate shopping treat to tackle those wedding ‘to do’ lists.

Give your wedding some character and browse unique, handmade products. Perhaps commission your own piece or discover a bespoke design service – all the designers are as excited about your big day as you are (well, almost) so get down and meet them!

From ‘classic’ wedding essentials, to the slightly more unusual, products on offer will include: Bridal fashion; Invitations; Bookbinding for photo albums; Millinery; Jewellery (rings in particular!); Wedding branding; Gifts (such as Ceramics, Interior Products, Silversmithing, etc); Tasteful Hen/Stag fashion and accessories; Father/Mother of Bride/Groom fashion and accessories; Bunting; Decorations; Favours and table paraphernalia.

Location: 33-35 St John’s Square, London EC1M 4DS

Event Dates:

23-25 June 2011 Join us for a drink at the Special Launch Night on Thurs 23 June, 4-8pm

Late Night Shopping on Fri 24 June, 11am – 7pm

Avoid the High Street crowds on Sat 25 June, 11am – 5pm.

Free Admission

Find out more at www.craftcentral.org.uk

The Wedding Girl’s SOS is not the only one loving this collection, check out what the others have to say…

“I love the quirky, fashion lead pieces that you do, they have a modern vintage feel perfect for today’s bride. Whether for you, your maid or gifts there is something for everyone at prices that will delight”. Peta Hunt, Fashion Editor,’ You and your Wedding’

“The new bridal pieces from Martine Wester add another dimension to an already gorgeous collection. For stylish brides who are looking for something a little different the collection encompasses bold statement pieces in Swarovski and then my personal favourite are the delicate ‘bow’ necklaces and earrings with their tiny pearls – so pretty and dainty -perfect heirloom pieces.”  Bryony Toogood, Fashion Editor, ‘Brides’ magazine

Have a look at the gorgeous bridal collection here www.martinewesterlondon.co.uk

We chose to fly in to Port Elizabeth, a costal city situated on Nelson Mandela bay which is within easy reach of some of the best game reserves in the country and acts as the transport hub for the Eastern Cape of South Africa. For this reason, it is an excellent place to start or end a safari trip if you are also planning to spend time along South Africa’s famous Garden Route and in Cape Town.

Arriving in Port Elizabeth, tired and sore from the long flight, what better way to start off your honeymoon than with a little bit of luxury. Probably the largest and most impressive looking hotel along the sea front in Port Elizabeth is the Raddison Blu. A cool, modern, glass fronted building with 18 stories of unobstructed sea view rooms, it was an easy decision to make this our first port of call.  The rooms very much reflect the exterior of the building as they are modern, stylish and luxurious. A huge comfortable bed with a killer ocean view awaits in the bedroom and rooms also have a separate lounge area partitioned off from the bedroom and both bedroom and lounge have large flat screen TVs.  A large free-standing bath, double sinks and a shower/wet room are all featured in the spacious open plan bathroom.

As well as a trendy Italian restaurant and cocktail bar with a lovely terrace that overlooks the whole stretch of beach, the Radisson also has a fantastic spa where you can spend all day being pampered as well as gym facilities, secure underground parking and a large wedding/conference venue with a separate private bar and reception area.

After spending the afternoon relaxing and enjoying a little pampering we decided to head off to the beach for a sunset cocktail and dinner. A real stand-out restaurant was Ginger, situated on the beach front this is the perfect spot to enjoy scrumptious cocktails while watching the sun sink behind the ocean before moving on to a fantastic meal. The staff here are most welcoming and friendly and serve up delicious dishes such as their Cajun-style Grilled Squid which is literally bursting with flavour, Coffee and Sugar Kudu Steak and not to mention the melt in your mouth Deep Fried Chocolate Lindt Balls.

Early the next morning we couldn’t wait to get on the road to our next destination Shamwari. Whilst to many, the ideas of luxury and safari don’t always go hand in hand, the Shamwari game reserve exists to offer both, making it a perfect honeymoon destination.

Shamwari Game Reserve which is part of the ‘Shamwari Group’ which also encompasses; Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, Jock Safari Lodge, Nkomazi Game Reserve and Nyungwe Forest Lodge, is situated slightly North of Port Elizabeth, it occupies 25,000 hectares of malaria-free land and is home to Africa’s Big 5 (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard). Here you will find the most breathtaking African landscape with wide open grassy plains, dusty red soil, undulating hills and dense thickets of fynbos that are teeming with wildlife. Spaced out across this reserve, Shamwari has 7 different lodges, each with its own distinctive style. This reserve has received numerous international awards, including the World’s Leading Conservation Company and Game Reserve for many consecutive years.

The Shamwari staff were extremely welcoming and friendly and we felt well taken care of from the moment we arrived. After being greeted with two freshly poured homemade lemonades we were given a brief tour around the main lodge before we were left to settle into our room and freshen up for lunch.

During our 2 nights at Shamwari we stayed in the Eagles Crag lodge which is nestled in a gorge between two striking red rock faces. The accommodation is beautiful and offers the greatest of comfort in the remoteness of the wilderness. Each of the rooms, which are actually free standing cabins, are wonderfully decked out in dark wood and African artwork and feature a large free standing bath and shower, double sinks, an enormous luxurious four poster bed, a pair of loungers and a telescope through which to examine the crags. They are fully heated and air conditioned and have floor to ceiling windows on two sides that open out onto a private decked area with a plunge pool and pair of sun beds. Each cabin is perfectly secluded from the others by the surrounding woodland and the sense of peace and quiet is incredible.

After unpacking and quick dip in the plunge pool we had worked up quite an appetite and decided to go for lunch. Each of the 7 lodges has its own restaurant which serves up a menu of mixed international and African influenced dishes that change daily. They also put on a lovely tea before every afternoon game drive, consisting of delicious homemade cakes and beverages. Not wanting to fill ourselves up too much before the tea we opted for just one of the three courses on the lunch menu, venison and apricot skewers, which was excellent and along with the homemade cakes a few hours later this set us up perfectly for the day’s main activity; the game drive.

We were introduced to our guide, Frans, who was to be with us on all 4 of our game drives during our stay. Frans was open and friendly with a great sense of humor and an incredible knowledge of all forms of flora and fauna which he was able to demonstrate when answering our questions and explaining all about the different things that we saw. He took us out in a spacious and comfortable 4×4 which had been converted for game viewing (essentially an open top vehicle but with a canopy overhead in case of rain). The maximum number of passengers in a vehicle is 7 and even at full capacity it doesn’t feel crowded.

Our first drive was incredibly exciting getting us up close with a solitary bull elephant on the plains and allowing us to observe white and black rhinos resting in the grass, giraffe browsing the trees, a host of different species of antelope and finally, as the sun fell behind the mountains, a group of female lions lounging on an embankment. Seeing the animals in their natural habitat is a magical experience and completely blew us away. Thrilled and exhausted, we arrived back at the lodge and had a short break to freshen up before reconvening for dinner.

Dinner at Shamwari alternates every two nights between an outdoors braai (a traditional African BBQ) around a camp fire and a mouth watering 3 course set menu served in the restaurant. Our first night was the braai and we were presented with a host of meats from beef sirloin to marinated impala which were cooked to order and served with your selection from a buffet of salads, vegetables and hotpots. Dinner is taken at a table shared with your guide and the other guests from your drive which was a lovely touch as it gives you a chance to really get to know them better and to ask as many wildlife questions as you can think of! Full of good food and lovely wine and exhausted from the day’s excitement, we made our way back to our cabin, which had a lovely wood burning fire going, and cosied down into the huge four poster bed.

Game drives are taken twice a day, once in the afternoon/early evening and once in the morning at first light. Our 5:30am wake up call was a bit of a shock to the system but we were so excited about getting back out into the bush that it didn’t matter. We quickly got kitted up (it can be quite cold early in the morning and late at night so you must bring warm clothes if you are planning to go on safari!) and after a nice cup of tea and biscuits at the main lodge we were off again! The second drive was just as magical as the first with a variety of animals making themselves visible to us such as zebras, warthogs and a rhino feeding its baby but the absolute highlight had to be a magnificent pair of cheetahs who, after basking in the sun for a few minutes, prowled around stretching before clambering up a windswept tree to survey the landscape. It was a magnificent photo opportunity!

Our luck continued into the afternoon and on our third drive we found ourselves surrounded by a herd of about 20 elephants including the tiniest baby which was trotting along like a little puppy behind its enormous mother. Then towards the end of the drive had a close-up encounter with the female lions again before heading back to camp.

On the final morning, we set of for our last game drive which was spent trying to find the elusive buffalo, one of the “big 5″ that we had yet to see. From a distance our guide had seen them disappear into some thickets of cacti on a rocky mountainside. Alas they were able to evade us but a further encounter with the pride of lions more than made up for this! We then headed off to the Born Free Sanctuary for the last couple of hours of our stay.

Shamwari is host to a Born Free sanctuary which takes in big cats which have been held in captivity in the likes of circuses or wealthy individuals private collections. These animals have often been abused and the sanctuary provides them with a more natural and spacious environment in which they can live out the rest of their days. Here we were told the story behind each of the animals and were able to see most of them from the safety of some viewing platforms that look down on the enclosures (the enclosures being large areas of naturally wild land that have been fenced off to protect the cats from the other animals on the reserve). The sanctuary also serves as a teaching outpost which sees up to 600 local under-privileged school children come through it each month who are given the chance to see the animals and to learn more about conservation and the wildlife of South Africa.

Our experience at Shamwari was a magical one with so many wonderful moments making it impossible to choose a favorite. With abundant game, lovely staff and luxurious accommodation, Shamwari would be an ideal place to spend a romantic and exciting honeymoon.

With the first stage of our safari adventure over we were ready for some scenic driving and some R&R and set off for a stunning three hour drive down the famous garden route to Plettenberg Bay. Plettenberg Bay is an idyllic seaside town, around 230km west of Port Elizabeth, whose beautiful sandy beaches and sea views make it a favorite holiday destination for locals in South Africa. It is one of the most picturesque towns along the garden route and is a must-visit for anyone doing this drive.

While there are many hotels and villas available thanks to the popularity of the town, there can be no better place to spend your time here than The Plettenberg Hotel where we spent two lovely nights. The Plettenberg is a five star Relais & Chateaux hotel which is part of The Collection by Liz McGrath (a small group of luxury hotels in South Africa) and is located right on the edge of the cliffs with a panoramic view of the bay. This exclusive hotel has 37 super rooms and suites, two swimming pools – one of which is heated and a fantastic spa.

Upon arrival we were greeted cheerfully by the front of house staff and given a tour of the main property which consists of a number of informal lounges, a wonderful patio and pool area with breathtaking sea views, a well stocked bar with an extensive cocktail list and their restaurant, Sand, which is stylishly decorated in brilliant white and blue. Our room was no less impressive; a beautiful white space with a roomy comfortable lounge area and bedroom, both of which shared the same incredible sea view as the patio area, and the largest bathroom we’ve ever seen complete with dressing table and walk-in wardrobe! After settling in, we took a break to have a cocktail out on the restaurant’s patio and were thrilled when we realized that from our table we could see dolphins playing in the sea, a truly special moment for us.

The restaurant, Sand, where we also had dinner that night is a beautiful venue which serves up a South African menu with a focus on seafood and the option of a 5 course tasting menu. For a particularly romantic evening, the hotel can arrange for you to enjoy your dinner at a private candlelit dining table down in the gorgeous wine cellar.

For some world class pampering then The Carchele spa is a sanctuary to relax and unwind in, a serene atmosphere with therapists who specialise in individual massage techniques and treatments. A wide range of treatments are on offer including facials, manicures and pedicures, plus the ozone bath therapy that will detox the body and the steam room which offers a relaxing retreat.

The overall ambiance at The Plettenberg is very relaxing and tranquil and waking up to the sound of the lapping ocean is an amazing feeling. The Plettenberg is also the perfect place to base yourself for exploring the surrounding towns such as Knysna, which is well worth a visit.

Feeling refreshed and relaxed after our two nights at The Plettenberg we were ready for some more adventure, so off we headed to our next safari at The Gondwana Game reserve.

Gondwana can be found around 30 minutes drive North from Mossel Bay at the beginning of the garden route. The reserve spreads out to cover 11,000 hectares of the most astonishing mountainous terrain and is also malaria-free and home to Africa’s ‘big 5′ as well as other well known game animals who are free to roam across the reserve.

Gondwana has a number of different accommodation options available ranging from double rooms in a lodge to entire villas with two, three or four bedrooms but for our stay we had opted to go for one of their new Kwena huts, which we loved! Basically, the Kwena huts are adorable single roomed, circular huts with thatched roofs nestled on a hillside in the reserve overlooking a pair of watering holes. Each hut is decked out in rustic African décor and furnished with a wood burning stove, four-poster bed, free standing bath, double sink and separate toilet. With a skylight in the roof allowing you to gaze at the bright sparkling stars from your bed, the huts are very cosy and romantic and make for a really authentic experience.

Upon arrival we were warmly welcomed in the reception with drinks around the burning brazier that sits in the centre of the room. A quick tour of the site followed in which we were shown the restaurant and bar areas both of which were in a similar style to the Kwena huts and shared their rustic, cosy feel with burning fires and gorgeous African décor.

After having a shower and unpacking a few things we had lunch in the restaurant and were treated to wonderful wholesome cuisine with a delicious homemade pie and grilled hake. Pleasantly full, we spent a couple of hours relaxing by the pool and enjoying the spectacular view out over the watering holes, where two elephants were enjoying a refreshing drink, before it was time for our first game drive.

Driving around the reserve is an incredible experience as the terrain is absolutely breathtaking. Lush expanses of fynbos give way to rolling green hills and valleys and soaring rocky mountains, it’s a real feast for the eyes. Our first drive had our guide Trevor taking us out and tracking down the reserve’s elephants and black rhino and observing them as they browsed through some wooded thickets. We also encountered zebra, red hearted beast, kudu and the beautiful oryx as we made our way round the reserve in the open topped 4×4. Seeing the animals up close in the amazing setting of the Gondwana reserve really brings home the feeling that you are out in the wilds and close to nature. Trevor was extremely knowledgeable and passionate and had an amazing respect for the bush and the animals. He shared some very interesting stories with us and made it his mission to make sure we had the best possible experience.

We returned to the Kwena camp at sundown and enjoyed a lovely drink while we watched the African sky turn from an amazing orange to a jet black dotted with the brightest stars I’ve ever seen. We then spent a wonderful evening enjoying a 3 course meal of warming soup, African game meats and a delectable trio of berry deserts before retiring to our hut to cosy down for the night. Upon our return we were greeted by the gorgeous sight of dozens of flickering tea lights that had been arranged in our room by the staff, leading towards a platter of fruit skewers and melted chocolate at the foot of the bed. The wood burning stove had been lit and the room was filled with a warming glow that later soothed us off to sleep.

One of the highlights of our stay was being awoken in the middle of the night by a scratching, scraping noise that was coming from right outside our hut! Thinking that it perhaps could be the lions (the huts are right in the reserve and the animals are known to enter the encampment) we huddled together in excitement and just a little bit of fear. After moving around our hut for a while the sound gradually moved away and we dozed off, thrilled with our “close encounter”. When we awoke in the morning, the rising sun revealed an enormous elephant dropping that had been left right outside our door and the culprit was still visible in the distance slowly making his way across the valley! We really were amazed to have been lucky enough to have had a night time visit from the majestic elephant!

As the sun began to creep up from behind the hills we set off again with Trevor for our second game drive. Once again he excelled himself and we were privileged to have a rare sighting of a pair of hippos out of the water. The giant animals looked so docile and peaceful as they lounged in the sun in a grassy thicket near their usual pond, that is until they opened their mouths to yawn, revealing their monstrous teeth, which reminded us that these are the most dangerous animals in Africa.

The elephant had returned to our hut while we were out and really seemed to have taken a liking to it as he browsed through the grass on the surrounding hillside! We had to wait for him to lose interest and head off before we were able to get back inside!

That afternoon we went in search of the lion pride. The lions are notoriously hard to track down so we had a real adventure searching for them and following footprints and indications that Trevor picked up on. When we stumbled across a recently eaten Kudu we knew we had to be close and the excitement was really building. When we eventually caught up with the lions, we found all 4 of the females and the handsome male with his elegant mane stalking through the long grass. They seemed to be quite active at this time and were clearly on their way somewhere which was great as we got to see the cats in motion, trotting gracefully through the grass, this was a fabulous end to our game drive.

Our time at Gondwana was really magical, from the wonderful, cosy Kwena huts to the close encounter with the elephants and our game drive adventures, each day had something really special happen that we felt extremely lucky to have experienced. Alas it was time to leave and head on to Cape Town for the next stage of our trip.

Flights to Port Elizabeth take approximately 14 hours with a short stop over in Johannesburg. You can fly with a number of different airlines including South African Airways, Virgin and British Airways.

To find out more about the places we stayed you can visit their websites:

Radisson Blu

Shamwari

The Plettenberg

Gondwana

To view more images from our gallery visit this link South Africa Image Gallery

We arrived in Cape Town with high expectations and were not disappointed for a single second. We stayed in some of the best hotels in and around the city and had the most amazing time.

Our first point of call was The Table Bay hotel, situated right on the V&A waterfront. When we first entered the hotel lobby, it felt like stepping into a palace! It is the most breathtakingly grand lobby with gleaming marble floors, soaring ceilings and towering windows through which the Cape Town sun streams in, lighting up the many impressive artworks that are dotted around the room. From the moment you arrive you know that you are going to have your every need taken care of as a bevy of helpful staff relieve you of your luggage and set about making you as comfortable as possible. Everything here has a real feel of refined old world class.

Our room at Table Bay was on the 7^th floor and from its two balconies, one at the front facing the harbor and one at the back facing the sea, we had amazing views and could watch as the ships drifted in and out of port. The room was extremely spacious with a separate lounge complete with settee, armchairs, drinks corner and a TV hidden in an elegant dark wood dresser. The bedroom had a huge double bed, writing desk and wardrobe plus another TV hidden in a dresser. There was also a lovely bathroom with marble double sink and beautifully finished bath and shower.

After settling in, we paid a visit to the spa for 60 minutes of luxurious massage. Using a combination of heated pads and scented oils, the knots in our muscles were gradually teased out and we were left feeling relaxed and ready for a stroll along the bustling waterfront!

The V&A Waterfront is a buzzing and lively marina with a great selection of places to eat and drink while you sit back and enjoy watching one of the many street entertainers, live bands or simply the crowds of interesting people strolling by. There are also plenty of shops to indulge in some retail therapy with everything from modern shopping malls to Arts & Crafts markets.

After a couple of hours spent at the waterfront we had worked up quite an appetite so afternoon tea seemed a perfect way to continue the day at this point. We strolled back to the hotel and across to the enormous glass conservatory where tea is served daily. Here we enjoyed the ‘Hatters Tea Party’ as the sun beamed down through the conservatory windows and tiny sparrows flitted around us looking for crumbs. To start, we had a lovely selection of finger sandwiches and homemade quiches. The savories were, of course, followed up with a delectable selection of cakes and deserts including poached pears with white chocolate, red velvet cupcakes with mint marshmallow frosting, black forest gateau and blueberry muffins! It was cake heaven!

That evening we decided to try out one of the hotel’s two restaurants, ‘The Conservatory’, and enjoyed a delicious steak in the elegant dining room with an excellent bottle of wine from the hotels extensive wine list. We then strolled down to the Waterfront for a few drinks at a couple of the lively bars.

All in all, Table Bay represents a great choice for honeymooners who are looking for something grand and luxurious with the additional bonus of the hotel’s prime location at the waterfront.

If you’re after somewhere cool and modern to stay in Cape Town then you need look no further than the chic and trendy 15 On Orange hotel. Named after its location on Orange Street, the hotel is literally bursting with contemporary design and style. When we arrived, we were shown to the lift that takes you from the car park level to the reception and when we stepped inside the elevator and found a large gold sofa, we knew we were going to be in for a treat. The reception itself is inside a huge atrium with gleaming black floors and edgy chrome furnishings. We were courteously greeted and taken up to our room on the 5^th floor in another elevator, this time with an open view out over the atrium. The room was fabulous and very spacious with floor to ceiling windows making way for a spectacular view of Table Mountain, a pair of loungers from which to enjoy the view, a huge double bed and plenty of modern comforts such as an ipod dock, large flatscreen and aircon. The bathroom was a large modern space built around the freestanding bath with double sinks on one side and a wet room on the other. I also loved the fact that there were two sets of lights in the bathrooms, you could have the regular lights or you could use the amber lights which would make the bathroom surfaces glow with a sultry orange light, perfect for a relaxing bubble bath.

Once we were able to tear ourselves away from the room and check out the rest of the hotel, we discovered the open air rooftop pool which also has a stunning view of Table Mountain and is a great place to lounge around on a sunny afternoon. The pool is adjacent to the hotel’s Spa and small gym in case you are in the mood for either a bit of pampering or a bit of a workout! There is also a very trendy bar on site which is perfect for cocktails before heading out on the town as well as a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The location is a nice central point to explore Cape Town from and the hotel has a number of drivers at its disposal should you need a ride out to a particular part of the city. After settling in we decided to take advantage of this service and head up the famous Table Mountain as it was a gorgeously sunny day. The driver arranged a time to collect us before dropping us at the base of the mountain to buy our ticket for the cable car. Be warned the line can be very long so it is advisable to get there early (or pre-buy a ticket online). Once at the front of the line you are taken up in a cable car that gives you an amazing view of the city below and when you reach the top you will not be disappointed. The highest point of the mountain is 1,086 meters above sea level and the surface of the mountain measures 3 kilometers (2 miles) from side to side, so you can literally spend the entire day walking around up there taking in the spectacular views of Cape Town and beyond.  I would highly recommend taking a picnic with you and don’t forget lots of water and suncream. It is an absolute must-do for any trip to Cape Town but be sure to take advantage of the first sunny day you have as the mountain is often closed due to clouds and mist which obscure the breath taking views and strong winds which can become dangerous at that height.

Four hours later the driver collected us and returned us to the hotel just in time for sunset cocktails on the bar’s terrace, the perfect ending to a great day.

If you’re a modern, stylish couple looking for somewhere cool to base yourselves for your Cape Town honeymoon then 15 on Orange would work perfectly for you.

If  luxury and location are your main priorities then South Africa’s only 6 star hotel, the One&Only Cape Town is a fabulous option. Offering an unprecedented level of luxury, the One&Only makes its premiere status known the moment you walk through the door into the spectacular ‘Vista Bar’. With soaring glass windows framing the incredible sight of Table Mountain and a gleaming circular cocktail bar stacked high with a bewildering array of bottles dominating the centre of the room, the Vista Bar lives up to its name. On either side of the Vista Bar are One&Only’s two fabulous restaurants; ‘Nobu’ and Reuban’s. Both restaurants offer fantastic dining, especially the world renowned Nobu, established by legendary Japanese chef Noboyuki Matsuhisa. I would highly recommend his signature dish Black Cod Den Miso, which is one of the most beautiful pieces of fish you will ever eat.

The rooms at the One&Only are similarly impressive and blend elegant dark wood furniture with chic and contemporary interior design. You have the choice of either an Island Suite or a Marina Rise suite. The Marina Rise rooms are based in the seven story main hotel building and each room comes with floor to ceiling windows that lead out onto a balcony with an incredible mountain or sea view. The spectacular Island Suites are more intimate and are located on a lush and secluded man-made island. Each Island Suite has a lovely terrace or balcony with views of the beautiful surrounding waterways, which is the perfect place to sit and relax while sipping on a cocktail. The rooms even come with an assigned butler to look after you during your stay!

The spa is also worth special mention. A beautiful glass and wood structure on the water which is accessible only by a walkway, the spa has 12 rooms where you can experience the finest treatments in the most tranquil surroundings.

So when five stars just aren’t enough, the 6 star experience at the uber-luxurious One&Only will not leave you disappointed.

Another fabulous hotel is ‘The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa’, found a short drive down the coast from Camps Bay, Cape Town’s trendiest beach spot. Here you can relax outside of the hustle and bustle of the city, but close enough that you can pop in and out whenever you like. The 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa has a great location with the shimmering ocean stretching out before it and the beautiful Table Mountain behind, so wonderful views are guaranteed wherever you look!

Our room was gorgeous and decked out in clean, relaxing whites and blues with mirrored surfaces that gave a great sensation of space. The bed was large and luxurious and the adjacent balcony had both ocean and mountain views. The bathroom contained a lovely big shower and bath and large soft towels were always to-hand on the heated rail.

After check in, we took ourselves down for a light lunch at one of the hotel’s 2 restaurants, The Café. Situated at the back of the hotel around their gorgeous rock pool, The Café serves up wonderful seafood, sandwiches and light bites before the spectacular vista of the mountain. The fishcakes were particularly lovely as were the amazing cocktails (Italian Strawberry Mojito yum!!)! The hotel can also prepare picnic hampers for you to take up one of the mountain trails that back onto the property so that you can enjoy some excellent cheeses, meats and breads with a nice bottle of wine from a secluded romantic spot of your choosing. If you fancy something more substantial and luxurious, the hotel also has a beautiful fine dining restaurant called ‘Azure’ which looks out across the ocean. Here you can experience five star award winning cape-fusion cuisine with dishes like Cape Malay pickled fish, fresh grilled kingklip and succulent springbok loin.

After lunch, a bit of relaxation seemed in order and so, following a spell of lounging by the hotel’s sea-facing swimming pool, we made our way over to the Sanctuary Spa. The Spa at 12 Apostles is really lovely, located under the hotel, the main waiting area of the spa looks and feels like being in a wonderful underground cavern with soft coloured lighting and the sound of water trickling down the smooth rock faces into the spa’s various hydrotherapy pools below you. We made our way straight to the flotation tank, a salt water pool tucked away in a darkened corner of the cave where you can float in silence and forget all your worries! As well as the flotation tank, the spa also features hot and cold plunge pools, a hydrotherapy bath, a steam room and sauna, rasul chamber and seven treatment rooms. If you’d prefer your treatments outside, there are also two treatment gazebos from which you can enjoy a massage in the mountains.

After a hard day’s relaxation, one of the notoriously spectacular African sunsets was swiftly approaching so it was time to head on up to the Leopard Lounge, the cozy safari-themed bar on the top floor of the hotel. From the balcony of the Leopard Lounge you can enjoy an uninterrupted view of the sun slipping over the ocean horizon in a heavenly orange glow with an equally heavenly cocktail in hand and some soothing live music! It is a great place to end your day or to start an evening out in trendy Camps Bay.

This was one of our favourite places we stayed, it is perfect for a bit of relaxation and pampering after all the hard work and stress of planning a wedding. With spectacular ocean and mountain views wherever you look, a wonderful spa and lovely food, it is hard to imagine ever wanting to leave!

Just a short drive away was our next destination. Tucked away in a secluded spot in the lush Constansia valley is the Cellars Hohenort hotel. Built around the spectacular white Manor House of the Hohenort and set in 3.5 hectares of the most amazingly gorgeous gardens, it is a truly beautiful place. One of the first things that was apparent from the moment that we arrived was the sense of peace and quiet, you may only be 20 minutes from the centre of Cape Town, but you could easily be a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With only the chirping of the birds (or the quacking of the resident flock of white ducks) and the trickling of the water features to disturb you, it is a great place to go to switch off and relax.

Once we had arrived at reception and checked in, we took our complimentary welcome drinks of homemade lemonade out to one of the tables in the gardens and sat in the sun admiring the scenery. The gardens at Cellars Hohenort have been voted into the top 30 hotel gardens in the world by Garden Design and are certainly deserving of this honor. With a wonderful rose garden, beautifully maintained arches of ivy, towering trees, trimmed green lawns and numerous fountains and streams you can easily lose yourself in the greenery as you explore the different areas of the gardens. There are also three swimming pools, a 9-hole pitch and putt golf course, a tennis court and a small vineyard to discover in the grounds.

The hotel itself is a collection of pristine whitewashed country houses built in a traditional Dutch style which have been divided into 52 individually decorated luxury rooms. Our room, which overlooked one of the hotel’s pools, was elegant and understated and felt more like a little apartment than a hotel room what with its separate lounge, bedroom and bathroom, a breakfast bar and multiple sets of French doors which opened out onto the gardens. The huge marble bathroom, in particular, was amazing although the giant bed with a garden view was a close second.

Being situated in the Constansia Valley, one of the Western Cape’s famous wine producing areas, Cellars Hohenort is a great base from which to embark on some wine tastings at local vineyards. Armed with a map and some recommendations from the helpful staff, we spent the afternoon exploring the stunning vineyard-studded valley and sampling its various culinary and liquid delights. There are so many vineyards to choose from and each as good as the next, you can simply turn up and enjoy sampling there wines, often paired with something delicious like cheeses or chocolate. A lot of the vineyards also offer tours which usually take place a few times a day and are well worth doing. The wine valley is also know for having some of the best restaurants in Cape Town, so you will never be disappointed with the food. We stopped for lunch at the beautiful Buitenverwachting where we enjoyed one of the most delicious meals of our whole trip, whilst taking in the most spectacular view of their vineyard.

Once we had exhausted ourselves in the valley, we made our way back to Cellars and caught up on a bit of reading in the stylish and contemporary Martini bar. The Martini bar doesn’t feel so much like a bar as it does a lounge with big comfy sofas and armchairs, a huge fireplace and even a friendly pair of cats. The bar has a massive cocktail list featuring 228 drinks including 152 Martini cocktails, one of the longest Martini lists in the world, hence the bar’s name. I would highly recommend the Sauvignon Martini.

That evening, we had the pleasure of dining in the hotel’s fine dining restaurant The Greenhouse. As the name suggests, the restaurant is based inside a beautiful whitewashed wood and glass greenhouse overlooking the gardens and has an intimate set up with seating limited to 45 people. The menu has an emphasis on locally sourced produce and gives you the option of a 4 course dinner with three options for each course or, if you want something really special, the 7-course ‘Imagine’ tasting menu with optional paired wines. Being real foodies (and just a little bit greedy), we chose the latter and boy were we in for a treat. From the moment that the bread was served alongside a potted plant which, as the waiter explained, was completely edible right down to the soil (actually toasted breadcrumbs, but it looked so real!) and contained a pesto spread we knew it was going to be a superb experience and the 7 courses that followed did not disappoint. Starting with a series of fois gras canapés, we worked our way though a divine seared tuna and scallop appetiser, a smoked ostrich tartare with avocado mouse, a seafood bisque with shellfish and a rump of springbok with a dark chocolate sauce before moving onto the delectable puddings of green tea and lime sorbet with creme brulee and, finally, an incredible camembert cheesecake with pineapple icecream! Each of the dishes came with a different wine, specifically selected by the sommelier to compliment the food and each of which was excellent. I can honestly say that this was one of the best meals that I have ever eaten and would highly recommend the restaurant to anyone who is planning on visiting the area even if you are not staying at the hotel.

The Cellars Hohenort hotel is somewhere that I would recommend for anyone who wants to get out of the city and spend their honeymoon relaxing in the beautiful countryside and enjoying the finer things in life. With the amazing culinary and wine tasting opportunities available to you both at the hotel and in the surrounding valley it is a must for any food and wine lovers out there.

Another place to stay in Constansia is The Steenberg Hotel & Spa which is found on the site of Constansia Valley’s oldest farm and is one the valley’s most historic vineyards. In addition to their award winning winery, the property is also home to a beautiful private championship 18-hole golf course, a luxury spa, a pool with bar and a fine dining restaurant so there is no shortage of activities with which to busy yourself during your stay.

The hotel itself is a large country manor house with a number of outbuildings that have been lovingly and tastefully restored in traditional 17^th century style and divided up into 21 rooms and 3 luxury suites.  The site has since been declared a National Monument and the historic exterior seamlessly blends in with the modern luxuries found inside. The limited number of rooms gives the property a very intimate feel, which is perfect for honeymooners who want a bit of privacy.

Our room at the hotel very much embodied the theme of ‘old meets new’ with an elegant dark wood four poster bed and antique writing desk, lamp and wardrobe sitting alongside air conditioning, mini fridge and flatscreen TV and a large luxurious bathroom with bath, shower and double sinks. We also had a lovely little patio with table and chairs from which we could sit and look out over the spectacular valley whilst enjoying a glass of the wonderful Steenberg wine (the Sauvignon Blanc is particularly good!).

Your stay at Steenberg comes with a complimentary wine tasting at the on-site winery and this is well worth doing as the wines here are excellent. If you get peckish whilst you are there, there is also a bistro at the winery which looks out over the vineyard and serves delightful tapas style dishes throughout the day.

For those who enjoy a round of golf, the course at Steenberg is world class and has been consistently voted into South Africa’s golf digest Top 100 as one of the best conditioned courses, improving its ranking year on year. Featuring Africa’s largest green and numerous natural features and hazards such as the vineyards, forests and waterways it is as challenging as it is beautiful.

We had dinner that evening at ‘Catherina’s', Steenberg’s fine dining restaurant which is a large contemporary space with high ceilings, views of the mountains and False Bay and a rustic décor style. From our table in front of the crackling fireplace, we enjoyed dishes such as Malay crusted king scallops with a lychee samoosa which were packed with flavour and a wonderfully tender springbok loin with potato gratin. This was of course served with some lovely Steenberg wine (although there are many others on their extensive wine list) and finished off with a selection of chocolate deserts! We then decided to take a moonlit stroll around the beautiful grounds to walk off some of that delicious food before retiring to the lounge for a few late night drinks.

The Steenberg hotel is a great honeymoon location for golf lovers but even if you’re not into golf, the vineyard, pool, restaurant and spa are reason enough to spend some time doing some well earned relaxing at this exclusive resort.

One of the highlights of our trip was the last place that we stayed. A scenic 30 minute drive from the centre of Cape Town, at the base of Chapman’s Peak Mountain, with the ocean lapping at its door is the stunningly picturesque Tinstwalo Atlantic lodge.

Completely invisible from the road, the only evidence of this hidden gem is a cute little sign made of shells at the side of the road sitting outside a rustic gate. At the gate we were greeted by a cheery member of staff who let us into the cliffside car park and welcomed us to the lodge. Leaving our car at the top of the cliff, we were collected in one of the Tintswalo’s 4x4s by the lodge’s enthusiastic and welcoming manager Ryno who drove us down the cliff’s private winding road which led to the hidden lodge nestled into the bottom of the cliffside

Within minutes of arriving we were sitting on a deck less than 10 meters from the shimmering ocean with a glass of chilled champagne in our hands and this very much set the scene for the rest of our stay.

The Tinstswalo Atlantic lodge is a wonderful group of rustic wooden huts that have been carefully and responsibly slotted into the landscape of the Cape Mountain Fynbos Reserve with the emphasis very much being on ecologically sound construction and conservation. The lodge could not be closer to the sea without actually being in it and this is one of my favorite things about it. There is something so relaxing about being so close to the water and here you can see, hear and smell it wherever you go. With only 10 suites (and one presidential suite) the lodge is a very private and intimate location and the staff are wonderful at tending to your every need.

Each suite is different and is named and themed after an island. Our suite was ‘Ithica’ and it was absolutely lovely. With a nautical blue and white colour scheme, little shells, pebbles and starfish decorating the walls and a small wood burning stove in the corner it was incredibly quaint and rustic. The suites make the most of their ocean location and the luxurious bed faces a huge set of French windows that open up onto a private painted wooden deck over the shore. The charming bathroom, separated from the bedroom by a large set of sliding glass doors and decorated with little mosaic tiles, has a freestanding bath (with ocean view of course), wet-room style shower, double sink and lots of fluffy towels!

It’s so peaceful and relaxing at the lodge it is hard to find a reason to leave. You can even book spa treatments  from a variety of local therapists and have them come out to the comfort of your suite to treat you. Planting ourselves in a pair of comfortable loungers on the main deck next to the lodges heated plunge pool, we enjoyed a spectacular sunset over the ocean with yet another champagne in hand and a yummy platter of pre-dinner snacks that the kitchen surprised us with!

The open kitchen can be found in the main lodge and the chefs are friendly and chatty, coming out to talk you through the menu and offering to change things if there is anything that isn’t to your taste. Our dinner that night was a fabulous four course affair with lots of fresh seafood and dishes like the smoked salmon and raspberry salad, king prawn tempura and pan fried bluenose being served up as we gazed out at the twinkling lights of Hout Bay glimmering on the dark sea. As we were finishing up, Melissa, the lodge’s other general manager, came to ask if we would like to have the stove lit in our room which sounded like a great idea. When we retired to the room, feeling full and content, the suite was bathed in the warm glow of the stove and the sound of the crackling fire and lapping ocean soothed us off to sleep.

I can’t recommend the Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge highly enough. From the idyllic ocean-front location and the welcoming staff to the wonderful rustic accommodation and intimate setting, this is a perfect place to come on a honeymoon if you are looking for some quiet relaxation in the most beautiful and intimate setting.

Direct flights to Cape Town take approximately 12 hours with a number of different airlines flying out daily including South African Airways, Virgin and British Airways.

To find out more about the places we stayed you can visit their websites:

Table Bay

15 On Orange

One&Only

12 Apostles Hotel & Spa

Cellars Hohenort

Steenberg

Tintaswalo Atlantic

To view more images from our gallery visit this link South Africa Image Gallery

The amazing Bridal Designer Sale is back and will be held at The Lancaster Hotel on Saturday the 4th and Sunday the 5th of June 2011.

You can save up to 70% off exquisite designer wedding dresses, with new stock arriving each day! Over 1000 stunning dresses available from leading designers including Designers include Amanda Wakeley, Amy Michelson, Anna Christina, Annabel B, Atelier Aimée, Caroline Castigliano, Christiana Couture, Galit Levi, Lyn Ashworth, Max Chaoul, Oleg Cassini Icon, Sharon Hoey, Toi Creazioni, and many, many more…

The tickets to this event are FREE, however, brides must log on to www.bridaldesignersale.com to register your details and select a time slot.

Event: The Designer Wedding Dress Sale

Location: The Lancaster Hotel, London

Dates: Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th June 2011

Time: 10am – 5pm Saturday, 11am – 3pm Sunday

Shoes from Touch Ups, Benjamin Walk, Liz Rene Couture, Lexus, Shades, Origa and end of line styles from Rainbow Club.

It is strictly first come first service and appointment only. Book your place now by emailing karen@perditasweddingshoes.co.uk

Click here to see available time slots

The production team would love to speak to brides who are planning their dream wedding. If you are lucky enough to be chosen and you win your episode, then you’ll be whisked away on the ultimate honeymoon.

If you are interested in finding out more, and are planning an elaborate or unusual wedding, then contact:

4weddings@itv.com or call 020 715 73803.

Leave details of your wedding including the date, type of wedding and location. Also, don’t forget to leave your name and telephone number.

To celebrate the 1 year anniversary of the venue opening for wedding events a traditional English afternoon tea will be served on the beautiful garden lawns.

Located just outside Milton Keynes, the Grade I listed Georgian stately home is set in 80 acres of landscaped gardens and features its own lake. Chicheley Hall offers the perfect backdrop for luxury weddings with a range of event space and dining rooms with stunning views over the grounds. The estate offers space suitable for a marquee structure or guests can be entertained in the formal garden, complete with its walkways and inset seating area. Renown caterers Harbour & Jones create gourmet modern British inspired dishes, providing up to 60 guests with the ultimate fine dining experience in the ambience of the magnificent Grand Hall. Chicheley Hall is available for wedding receptions on an exclusive basis and is licensed to hold a select number of ceremonies each year for up to 60 guests.

Places at this event are strictly limited so please RSVP to Rachael.adams@perception-uk.com to secure your space.

Nicki was recently commissioned to design the bridesmaid dresses for the wedding of Catherine Middleton to Prince William. Catherine’s four bridesmaids, Lady Louise Windsor, Margarita Armstrong Jones, Grace Van Cutsem and Eliza Lopes wore a ballerina length, box pleated dresses made of ivory silk satin gazar, layered over organza, wild silk and generous petticoats, edged with an English lace trim. A silk gold sash, tied in a bow at the back, completed the look.

Register for the sale online and for free at www.halfpintchic.com

LovebySusie has launched its first e-commerce website at www.lovebysusie.co.uk.  This exquisite range of luxury bridal lingerie, accessories and loungewear will now be available worldwide direct from the designer, previously only available through selected lingerie retailers, bridal shops and e-boutiques.  For the first time, LovebySusie customers can see the collection in its entirety and will be able to order bespoke items and even purchase exclusive limited edition designs.

Every LovebySusie collection is individually designed and handmade to perfection by Scottish designer Susie McKenzie. The exquisite lingerie ranges from figure enhancing silk and coutil corsets to delicate vintage lace garters, luxury silk and lace knickers, nighties and loungewear, all capturing the elegance and romance of long gone eras.

LovebySusie particularly appeals to the modern fashion aware bride, with a passion for luxury fabrics, sophisticated vintage design and unabashed pretty femininity.  Every aspect of a LovebySusie bride’s wedding day ensemble is a careful consideration, especially when it comes to what is underneath that once in a lifetime gown.

LovebySusie designs fit perfectly into the style for all things vintage, a trend that shows no signs of abating especially when it comes to weddings and lingerie. Describing her collections Susie said: “I have taken traditional leavers lace produced in Nottingham using designs that go as far back as the 18th Century and have combined it with the highest quality silks and chiffons to produce timeless, elegant designs that are truly unique”.

LovebySusie Lingerie and Loungwear is available in UK sizes 6 – 18 with bespoke options also available with regard to size and styling by request through the new website www.lovebysusie.co.uk

Prince William and Kate Middleton have finally tied the knot today at the beautiful Westminster Abbey.

Kate Middleton looked stunning in her ivory and lace gown designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen and a diamond Cartier tiara belonging to Queen Elizabeth. Prince William looked dashing wearing the red military uniform and blue sash of the Irish Guards.

Wedding shows are an ideal place to meet wedding professionals, gather information and discuss ideas. So, whether you are newly engaged and just starting your wedding preparations, or fast approaching the big day, this major event in the heart of Kent is well worth a visit.

It’s a great opportunity to see and hear bands and entertainers performing live – and you’ll find a fabulous selection of bridal gowns, shoes, jewellery, cakes, rings, stationery, floristry, menswear, balloon décor, chocolate fountains… along with many wow factor ideas to surprise your weddings day guests.

There’s an outstanding fashion show and entertainment programme throughout the day – and with over 200 wedding specialists exhibiting, it’s just like a ‘national’ show but FREE. Arrive early and stay all day to make sure you pick up all the ideas and inspiration to make your own wedding day unique and truly special.

The show is ADMISSION FREE and is open from 10.30am to 4.00pm.

La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Cream
This is one of the most fabulous face creams. The richly textured cream is not only the ultimate in luxurious pampering; it provides the utmost concentration, utmost hydration and firming action ever achieved in a La Prairie cosmetic moisturizer. It dramatically improves your skin’s elasticity and tone. Protein-rich Caviar Extract helps nourish and energize your skin, resulting in refined texture and a silken smoothness. From the moment you put it on your skin, your complexion noticeably looks radiant, alive and feels softer and firmer. Simply fantastic!
£258
www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Serum
I really noticed over the last few weeks that after a long winter my skin was feeling a bit dry and tight (not the best base for applying make-up). The new Extra Repair Serum from Bobbi Brown is perfect for getting your skin ready for Summer and more importantly ready for your big day. The luxurious and milky concentrated repair serum comforts skin as it firms and moisturises. Anti-ageing ingredients help reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles both instantly and over time. This is perfect for putting underneath your moisturizer before applying your make-up.
£60
www.bobbibrown.co.uk

Dermalogica UltraCalming Relief Masque
Having quite sensitive skin myself I know the though of my skin flaring up the day before my wedding would be disastrous – Dermalogica’s UltraCalming Relief Masque is a powerful emergency relief multi-use treatment masque that soothes enraged skin and provide lasting relief from sensitive skin flare ups, redness and rosacea. It contains UltraCalming^TM Complex, cordyceps and trametes versicolor extract, colloidal oatmeal, mugwort (artemisia) and algae extract. This fab product will be on counters from the 1st of May.
£37.60
www.dermalogica.com/uk

The Body Shop Strawberry Body Butter
I adore this limited edition strawberry body butter from The Body Shop, the gorgeous melts in to your skin leaving you feeling silky soft and the divine berry fragrance lingers on your skin all day, leaving you smelling irresistible. There is also a matching strawberry lip balm for just £2.
£12.50
www.thebodyshop.co.uk

Abahana Lilac Rose & Geranium Body Lotion
Another favourite body lotion is Abahana Lilac Rose & Geranium, it is a silky, light body lotion with key ingredients including conditioning sweet almond oil, organic wild flower honey and Vitamin E, Cocoa and Shea butters which leave your skin feeling and smelling amazing. This soothing and comforting body lotion is perfect for using after a bath or shower, promoting deep relaxation, perfect for those stressful days in the lead up to the wedding and of course for the big day itself.
£20
www.abahna.co.uk

De-Stress Muscle Bath & Shower Oil (55ml)
Another great product to help you de-stress is this De-Stress Muscle Bath & Shower Oil from Aromatherapy associates. With a powerful blend of pure essential oils of ginger and black pepper and herbaceous lavender, you will find all your pre-wedding stresses melting away as you lay back in a hot relaxing bath.
£37
www.aromatherapyassociates.com

ESPA Pink Hair and Scalp Mud
It is important to get your locks looking as fabulous as possible on your big day and to help you to just that try ESPA’s fabulous Pink Hair & Scalp Mud. It intensely nourishes, soothes and revitalizes leaving you with lustrous hair and a healthy scalp. The versatile ‘pink’ mud made from mineral rich red clay is a unique conditioning treatment renowned for leaving hair soft and smooth as silk. Vitamin C-rich watercress and apricot kernel oil soothes and nourishes your scalp, while the red Clays stimulate circulation to help strengthen and promote healthy, manageable hair.
£18
www.espaonline.com

VO5 Heat Defence Ionic Straightener
For gorgeously straight smooth hair nothing works better than a good pair of straighteners. Using Ceramic Heat Technology to ensure fast heat recovery as well as even heat distribution, the tourmaline ceramic straighteners add shine as they style. In comparison to standard 1.5mm plates, the thicker 3mm plates featured on these straighteners retain heat for longer and create even heat distribution for faster, more effective styling. The manual temperature dial control allows users to adjust the heat as required providing the freedom to manage hair more accurately. I found them really easy to use and the results were great.
£64.99
Available at Argos, Amazon, Boots, Tesco.

Mac Studio Moisture Tint With SPF 15
Now that your skin, body and hair are looking fabulous all there is left to worry about is your make-up, most importantly the complexion. This light tinted moisturizer from Mac is perfect for giving you a flawless complexion. The sheer tint provides just enough coverage to even out the skintone while creating a protected, softly moisturised finish. A perfect option for those who don’t want a heavily made-up look.
£20
www.maccosmetics.co.uk

Urban Decay Urbanglow Cream Highlighter
I really love this silky cream highlighter, it is perfect for bringing luminescence wherever your face needs it. Packed with pearl powders, the weightless formula helps you look positively radiant. The non-greasy formula dries instantly, and can be worn right on top of makeup. Dot along your cheekbone and blend to make them look more defined, dab a tiny bit under your browbone for more definition, use a bit along the center of your nose to slenderize and shape. And dab a touch at the inner corners of your eyes for a bright-eyed look. Amazing!
£18
www.debenhams.com

Famous By Sue Moxley Rosy Cheeks
This is a great little blusher from Sue Moxley, give your cheeks a touch of healthy radiance and natural colour with the peachy blusher and then use the highlighter along cheekbones for extra definition. The handy compact also comes with a small brush and mirror, perfect for those little touch-ups throughout the day.
£5
www.superdrug.com

Frontcover Colour Collection Eyeshadow Palette
I really love this concept from Frontcover. Each shadow is available to purchase separately along with a compact to fit your 4 favourite shades (the new colour collection features 30 shades which will be in Boots stores this Spring). The eyeshadows are fab and stay put all day long and the compact includes a double ended applicator and large mirror.
The shadows and compact cost £5 each, or you can buy 4 shades and a compact together for £15, saving £10
www.boots.com

Clinique High Length Mascara
I really liked this mascara from Clinique. With its unique applicator that captures and coats each lash to the tip it gives great definition by separating them perfectly. It made my lashes look super-long and sexy.
£15
www.clinique.co.uk

Shu Uemura Gloss Unlimited in Clear With Iridescent Glitter
These are fabulous lip glosses from Shu Uemura! They are non sticky and feel really moisturising on your lips which is quite unusual for a lip gloss. The clear gloss is a fabulous with a hint of shimmer, perfect to wear on its own during the day and over lipstick at night!
£18.50
www.shuuemura.co.uk

Chanel Nail Varnish in Ballerina
Ballerina is the perfect shade for weddings. This lovely subtle pink is perfect on it’s own or as the pink part of your French manicure. It only takes about 3 minutes to dry and stays chip free for 5 days with a clear top coat.
£16.85
www.debenhams.com

Dr Nick Lowe The Secret is Out SPF15 Anti Age Lifting Cream
As we all know the sun is extremely damaging to your skin and also causes premature ageing, so it is super important to have a moisturiser with sun protection in. Well a fantastic option is Dr Nick Lowe’s The Secret is Out SPF15 Anti Age Lifting Cream, this multi-benefit, sumptuously rich day cream targets several signs of skin ageing. New generation peptides and powerful hydrators work with the Anti Age Cranley Complex to help deliver vital hydration, firming, toning and UVA / UVB protection. Fantastic!
£20.48
www.boots.com

Clarins Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil ‘Dehydrated Skin’
I find after a long day in the sun my skin is parched and screaming out for extra moisture! I was relived to discover this fabulous treatment oil from Clarins, it contains 100% essential oils that revitalise and tone plus helps prevent moisture loss and the signs of ageing. Once back to your hotel at the end of the day apply to a clean face before bed and let it work its magic.
£32.17
uk.clarins.com

Dirty Works Belle Of The Ball Face Mask
On your honeymoon you want your skin to be looking as fabulous and radiant as possible, so it is important to exfoliate to reveal gorgeous looking skin. This intensive-action face mask deep cleanses and replenishes your skin. With superfruit extract of blueberry, skin clearing willow bark and detoxifying green clay and kaolin to help draw impurities from your skin leaving it fresh and glowing.
£4.99
Available at Sainsbury’s Nationwide

Clarins Extra Firming Body Lotion
Of course when it comes time to put our swimwear on we all want our bodies to look as firm as possible. This fantastic body lotion from Clarins will ensure just that. It is a fresh, light, readily absorbed lotion, rich in regenerating and firming plant extracts which restores your skin’s youthful density and elasticity. This moisturizing lotion instantly smoothes away lines, leaving skin soft, refreshed and satin-smooth. Start using a few weeks in advance and then continue throughout your honeymoon.
£39.50
uk.clarins.com

Mitchell & Peach Body Lotion
I adore this indulgent body cream from Mitchell & Peach, containing honey, organic cocoa and vitamin B5, it rubs in easily, and absorbs within seconds. The lotion is exquisitely perfumed with Mitchell and Peach’s 100 per cent natural fragrance, which I am in love with and it lingers on your skin all day, leaving you smelling irresistible.
£36
www.selfridges.com

Moroccanoil Shampoo & Conditioner
Already a fan of Moroccanoil products I was excited to try out the shampoo and conditioner and of course I wasn’t disappointed, the creamy lather of the shampoo and the luxurious moisture of the conditioner left my hair, looking, feeling and smelling fantastic,
£16 each
www.lookfantastic.com

Clynol Sun Intense Sun Hair Mask
If the sun has taken its toll on your hair and left it looking more ‘dragged through a bush’ than ‘just rolled out of bed’ do not despair Clynol’s Sun Intense Sun Hair Mask will whip your hair back in to shape. Pro Sun Care Complex and UV filters provide sun protection to hair, whilst apricot kernel oil delivers intense nourishment and shine. Simply massage into towel dried hair, leave for 5-10 minutes and rinse out.
£9.65
www.feelunique.com

3 in 1 Yogi Hair Wand
When away I love having a bit more time to play with my hair and a laid back honeymoon is the perfect time. The 3 in 1 Yogi Hair Wand is a revolutionary new wand, which includes three sized barrels making it super easy to create all the looks you want, use the larger wand for soft sexy curls which are a fabulous look for day time and then the smaller barrels will achieve tighter stylish curls which look great for night time. The Yogi can be used all around the world, it heats up very quickly and includes a long glove and heat protection mat for safe use. Fantastic!
£91
www.yoghairwand.com

Illamasqua Body Electrics Illumine Oil
Once I have a bit of a tan I love adding a little extra shimmer, especially in the evenings. This luxurious dry body oil from Illamasqua is quickly absorbed and leaves your skin looking illuminated and super-sexy. The passionflower scent is gorgeous and your new husband will find it hard to keep his hands off you.
£32
www.asos.com

Korres Watermelon Tinted Moisturiser WITH SPF 30
I absolutely adore this tinted moisturizer from Korres, not only does it give fantastic light coverage, the watermelon scent make it smell divine too. It blends in to your skin flawlessly and all your imperfections seem to disappear. It comes in 3 shades and it contains SPF 30 so you know your skin will be safe in the sun. I highly recommend this one!
£18
www.cultbeauty.co.uk

Finding Mr Bright Make-up Kit
I love this fantastic little brightening kit from Benefit, it contains everything you need to have your skin looking radiant and luminous throughout your honeymoon. Finding Mr. Bright is filled with some of Benefits best products, including; Girl Meets Pearl – which is a fabulous liquid highlighter for face, Posietint – a gorgeous liquid tint for cheeks and lips, which gives a subtle flushed look, High Beam – a luminescent complexion enhancer and the wonderful Erase Paste no. 2 – a medium brightening camouflage for eyes & face. Amazing!
£28.50
www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk

Chanel Quadra Eye Shadow in Murano
I love this quartet of eye shadows from Chanel, it is perfect for honeymoons! You can use the three subtler colours (a light grey, a pale pink and a light green) to create a soft daytime look and then in the evening add the gorgeous vibrant green to glam it up, you can even dampen the eye shadow and use it as eyeliner with a thin liner brush.
£35
www.debenhams.com

Benefit BADgal Waterproof Mascara
If you are already a fan of the Benefit BADgal mascara then you will love the waterproof version, it gives fantastic thick long lashes and is great for building up volume. It stays smudge proof and was easy to remove with eye make-up remover at the end of the day.
£16.50
www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk

New cid Cosmetics – i-bronze
I love this marbleised baked powder from new cid cosmetics! It gives your skin a beautiful natural glow, enhancing your tan and brightening up your skin. Apply with a large brush to cheekbones, forehead and bridge of your nose, working the brush into darker areas of the powder for a deeper colour where needed. You can also use the powder as eyeshadow if you are packing light.
£19.80
www.wantthelook.com

Nubar Nail Lacquer in Carribean Coral
I love this sexy nail colour from LA brand Nubar. This gorgeous hot pink shade is simply gorgeous, it looks amazing on both fingers and toes, especially with a bit of a tan. It only took about 2-3 minutes to dry and needs just one to two coats depending on desired finish, plus it stayed chip free for 4 days with a clear top coat.
£6.80
www.feelunique.com

Clinique Body Spray with SPF25
This is a great sun cream in an easy to apply aerosol spray from Clinique. The liquid is clear and super easy to rub in, it absorbed very quickly and left no sticky or oily residue. It is great for re-applying throughout the day, just sling it in your bag and give your face or shoulders a quick spray whenever you feel like you might be burning.
£17.50
www.clinique.co.uk

With our wedding day being one of the most important days of our lives, when all eyes are on us and hundreds of photographs are being taken, it is understandable that we want to look our best!

Teeth whitening is a fairly common cosmetic procedure that many brides consider in the run up to their weddings. With so many places offering this service from private dental practices to stands in shopping malls and with so many different treatments on the market, it can be hard to decide what the most sensible choice is.

Although I am terrible with dentists teeth whitening is something I had been considering for a long time and I was very excited to have the opportunity to visit UltraSmile* Dentistry, the award-winning dental practice in London and a recent winner of “Private Practice of the Year”, to experience the latest in ZOOM tooth whitening technology,

On arrival the first thing I noticed about the UltraSmile* practice is that it looks fantastic. Situated in Limehouse, a stone’s throw from Canary Wharf and the City and overlooking the river Thames, the UltraSmile* clinic is ultra-cool and chic with modern, minimalistic furnishing throughout and stylish, attentive staff waiting to greet you at the door. Having been warmly welcomed and offered a nice cool drink to enjoy whilst admiring the reception’s fish tank, I was introduced to my hygienist for the procedure, Benjamin Blum (Benji). I was very nervous when I first arrived but Benji quickly put me at ease with some light-hearted humour whilst he talked me through the procedure. Now, that I was feeling completely happy with what was about to happen we made our way through to an attractive treatment room which reminded me more of being in a relaxing spa than at the dentist.

One of the advantages of having a whitening treatment done at a dental practice as opposed to a beauty parlour is that the staff at a dental practice really know what they are doing and can tell you whether or not your teeth are healthy enough to safely undergo a whitening procedure. By making sure that you have any cavities taken care of prior to a whitening treatment you can minimise the chances of experiencing any pain or discomfort. In my case, it turned out that I had slightly inflamed gums, which could reduce the effectiveness of the moulds that they were going to be taking of my teeth. Under the advice of Benji, I decided that I would come back in 4 weeks for the ZOOM whitening.

To help prepare my teeth and gums for the whitening treatment Benji recommended a specific mouthwash to use for 4 weeks which would help with the inflammation and since I already had the appointment booked with UltraSmile*, it was an ideal opportunity to instead experience their new UltraSmile* Sparkle Diamond Polish. Whilst a normal hygienist clean would typically be a swift trip around your teeth removing hard to shift deposits of plaque and tartar, the Sparkle Diamond Polish is a full 45 minutes of cleaning starting with a high powered polishing jet to remove staining then followed by a high gloss polish with diamond polishing paste.

The overall effect was very impressive. As a result of the cleaning, my teeth actually looked whiter already and they felt so clean and smooth! This is a procedure that I would definitely recommend to any bride that wanted to brighten up her smile at the last minute but wasn’t able to spend the time and the money on a full whitening treatment. It was totally painless and, at only £95, is very affordable and gives great results.

When I returned 4 weeks later, Benji inspected my mouth once again and sure enough, my gums were in great condition and I was ready to go. The ZOOM procedure has two stages; the whitening using the ZOOM lamp carried out at the dental practice and the home based follow up. The first thing that needs to be done is to take a mould of your teeth, which will be used to make the trays for the home whitening sessions. This was done by pressing my teeth into a mouth guard full of what looked a bit like silly putty and, despite feeling a little bit strange, this was really straightforward. Having left my impressions, these were taken away, cleaned up and returned as a perfect plaster cast of my teeth, which Benji had used to expertly and precisely create some form fitting plastic trays that would slot perfectly over my teeth. Benji then prepared me for my ZOOM treatment to begin.

The ZOOM procedure works by using a special lamp to activate a Hydrogen Peroxide based whitening gel. This combination allows it to accelerate the tooth whitening process and deliver impressive results in just 45 minutes. Unlike some of the cheaper high street bleaching treatments, the ZOOM treatment does not pose any risk to the enamel of your teeth, which should be a major consideration of anyone considering having whitening done. The procedure is completely safe and should only be administered by properly trained dental professionals.

The first stage of the treatment involves isolating and protecting your lips and gums, which the hygienist does with a mouth guard and a protective gel. You are then asked to don a trendy pair of orange glasses to protect your eyes. Once you are all protected, the whitening gel is applied to the teeth and the ZOOM lamp is turned on and aimed into your mouth. At this point there is nothing to do but just sit back and enjoy watching a movie on the conveniently located flatscreen TV above you. The treatment consists of three, 15 minute sessions with the light, stopping between each one to check on progress and to reapply the gel. After 45 minutes we finished up with a desensitising fluoride treatment to help alleviate any later sensitivity.

I was really nervous about this procedure because I’m such a wimp when it comes to pain and I had heard that teeth whitening could be very uncomfortable and cause terrible sensitivity. I was really pleasantly surprised to find that, apart from a bit of a sensitive sensation once or twice and lasting a few seconds each time, the procedure was essentially painless. If at any time I felt like I was on the verge of becoming sensitive I just had to indicate this to Benji and he would remove a little of the whitening gel or apply more protection.

I was also concerned about my teeth becoming too white. I didn’t want to wind up looking like Simon Cowell and we’ve all seen that episode of Friends with Ross and the teeth whitening! When the moment of truth came and I was able to look in a mirror I was really pleased with the outcome. My teeth were looking very clean and white but in an entirely natural way with no scary glow-in-the-dark Hollywood glare. Overall, I had come up 6 shades, which I was delighted with especially as it had happened in such a short period of time!

Once I had managed to stop smiling at myself in the mirror, Benji explained how to use the home whitening kit. This kit, the combination of a mild whitening gel and my form fitting teeth trays, is essentially to “top-up” the whiteness of your teeth gradually over time or to slightly bring the shade up a little more if you feel that you would like to go a little bit whiter. I tried the kit out the next day and it was very straightforward to use and, again, completely painless, I simply applied the gel on to the tray and slotted it in to my mouth where is stayed comfortably for the next two hours. I repeated this for the next few nights.

Overall I thought that the ZOOM3 treatment was excellent both in terms of the results that it achieved and the speed and comfort in which it achieved them. Knowing that my teeth are looking great, makes me feel really confident and on your wedding day when everyone is snapping pictures that’s a wonderful feeling to have. I was also left in no doubt that my treatment had gone smoothly due to the fact that I experienced it in a reputable dental practice and not a ‘beauty’ salon. I was in completely capable and competent hands and they were not rushing through the procedure to get to the next ‘customer’. With UltraSmile* allocating 2 hour appointments for Zoom, you can be confident they take full measures for their clients to experience a comfortable and successful whitening.

To find more about UltraSmile and the Zoom3 whitening treatment simply give them a call on 0207 093 4488 or visit their beautiful website http://www.ultrasmile.co.uk

Cosmopolitan, classic and sophisticated. These are the three styles featuring in Pronovias new wedding collection.

For setting trends, very contemporary gowns in which soft and sheer fabrics, such as chiffon and pleated garza, dominate. Discrete pieces, with pure lines, are fitted to the body using drapes and simple ruffles. Transparent lace, together with gemstone brooches, make areas like the neckline, shoulders, hips and back shine like true jewels.

Along more classic lines, are designs with a flared silhouette. A style with an impressive and splendid drape, thanks to the fitted lace bodices and the tulle skirts and trains. The Chantilly necklines, organza frills and crystal appliqués over silk satin add a touch of elegance to these designs. One option also features organza or taffeta textiles.

And to finish, sophisticated mermaid-cut gowns with strapless necklines: all celebrating female sensuality. The skirt takes centre-stage with extra large ruffles and strings of pleated garza or Chantilly tulle frills. A style with the most sumptuous fabrics, such as taffeta and satin, and precious details, such as crystal embroidery.

www.pronovias.com

Disney’s Fairy Tales Weddings by Alfred Angelo collection of seven wedding dresses is now available in over 65 bridal boutiques across the UK and Ireland. Gowns from the collection are priced from £599 to £1199 and available in sizes 6 upwards.

The collection is inspired by the style and personality of seven iconic Disney Princess characters: Ariel, Aurora (Sleeping Beauty), Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Snow White and Tiana. With each gown, brides can showcase their personal style, with the collection including grand ball gowns in layers of tulle and sparkle net, updated fit and flare styles to highlight curves and movement, and pleated and wrapped bodices to flatter the bride’s figure.

In Autumn/Winter 2011, the collection will be extended to include two special edition gowns available in the UK, one inspired by Cinderella and one by Rapunzel. The Cinderella gown is a classic silhouette that reflects the character’s beauty and grace from the film. It took six weeks to create the dress from the original design, with the 1000 beads, rhinestones, crystals and sequins on the bodice sewn by hand, taking over two days alone to complete. The other new gown is inspired by Rapunzel which is a unique design, representing the confident, outgoing and fun nature of Rapunzel. The gown is one shouldered with a flattering dropped waist and pleated bodice, also incorporating three-dimensional satin petals on the skirt, adorned with light-catching crystals and twinkling sequins.

View all seven dresses at www.alfredangelo.com/disney

Bride by Suzannah also includes vintage pieces from the 1920’s through to the 1970’s to accessorise with the dresses specifically sourced bty Suzannah to be worn with the collection. Millinery and hair accessories have also been designed to be worn with the collection

Designer Suzannah says ‘I created my new bridal collection inspired by the current shift in trend that we are seeing. Brides are moving away from wanting a traditional wedding dress and are choosing instead to invest in more of a unique ‘special’ dress to take them from the ceremony to the last dance. A dress they can also wear again to a party or special event. They dream of a luxurious statement dress which is charming and playful and makes them feel like them! A dress to treasure for years to come and a fantasy to make hearts melt’.

Bride by Suzannah has been designed to bring out the inner black and white screen siren combined with the whimsical humour and magic of Alice. The collection includes a range of stunning signature dresses that take their inspiration from the flirty flappers of the 1920′s through to the swirling romance of the 70′s. Each dress has its own heritage with every element of the gown carefully produced and designed to be its ultimate. The pieces are made from luxurious couture fabrics which have a “ready couture sentiment”. Bride by Suzannah dresses are designed to be bought off the peg, or if fittings are needed the process is designed efficiently so that the dress is ready to be collected within two months. Deliciously warm inspired neutrals of rose quartz tinted ivory, clotted cream and warm white fill the colour palette on premium silks and lace from Italy and France. The print has been designed exclusively for the label and is produced on the finest Italian chiffon from Lake Como.

Prices start from £650

View the collection at www.suzannah.com

Floris Wedding Bouquet

Jeanne Lanvin La Plume
I really like this new fragrance from Jeanne Lanvin La Plume, it is a young and sexy creation. With top notes of apricot and pear nectar and middle notes of freesia, crystallised rose petals and juicy sparkling notes of orange. The musk and sandalwood offer a voluptuous, milky base, which defines this velvety fragrance. It is a really sweet, light and feminine fragrance that is perfect for Summer. The bottle is also super-cute!
100ml £49
www.escentual.com

CK One Summer
The latest CK One Limited Edition just launched this month. It is a great Summer fragrance that opens with a burst of fresh crisp melon and dewy water fern. An invigorating blend of green citrus notes features tangerine leaves, lemon and the unique zesty herbaceous effect of verbena. Rhubarb adds a cool, edgy freshness, which rounded out with soft yellow freesia creates a refreshing heart. Exotic incense and earthy oakmoss are wrapped in the warmth of cedarwood, musk and peach skin. It is a very unique fragrance with an overall spicy fruity scent.
100ml £28.50
www.theperfumeshop.com

Peace Love & Juicy Couture
This fragrance from Juicy Couture is really unique, very different from all the other Summer fragrances. It reminds me of a Summers day in the park when the grass has just been cut. It features top notes of meyer lemon tree blossom, wild hyacinth, sweet apple accord, and black currant bud absolute. Middle notes of sambac jasmine absolute, star magnolia, malibu poppy, honeysuckle and linden blossom. Base notes of orris extract, sheer patchouli flower and enveloping musks. The scent definitely gets better the longer you wear it, so don’t judge it on the first spray, wait an hour or two and you will be in heaven. The Bottle is also fabulous and almost reason enough to run out and buy this gorgeous fragrance!
50ml £46, 100ml £62
www.debenhams.com

Thierry Mugler Alien Sunessence Or d`Ambre
This exotic limited edition Or d`Ambre is a fresh, floral and fruity fragrance with sunny exotic notes. The fragrance blends sparkling and dynamic notes of kiwi with hints of vanilla and unfurling stanhopea orchids and Alien’s original woody-amber notes. It has real staying power so a little goes a long way, and the gorgeous bottle makes a really sexy edition to your dresser!
40ml £60
www.houseoffraser.co.uk

La Prairie Silver Rain
This is definitely one of my new favourite fragrances! It is an extravagant and unique fragrance composed of the costly essential oils of roots, herbs and flowers from some of the most mystical and mysterious parts of the world, it is a sweet scent but definitely unlike any other fragrance. In a super sexy bottle shaped like a silver raindrop, this seductive and intensely provocative fragrance has made its mark as one of the great classic perfumes. It lasted all day and didn’t fade at all, everyone complimented me on this perfume throughout the day. Divine!
50ml £94
www.beautique.com

DKNY Women Summer
DKNY for Women Summer 2011 is a sparkling fruity floral fragrance. Radiant pink florals and sunny, glimmering fruit make this an ultra-feminine, luminous scent. Tantalizingly fresh top notes of pink pomelo, juicy yellow passion fruit and red goji berries are layered upon an airy, floral heart of jasmine petals and sunny magnolia. The floral notes are complimented by a touch of exotic lychee fruit and a sheer veil of white musk. Overall the fragrance makes me think of a delicious fruity cocktail, so very fitting for Summer.
100ml £32.50
www.theperfumeshop.com

Sheer Stella 2011
This new fragrance by Stella McCartney is perfect for Summer, not only does it have the most beautiful bottle that looks stunning on your dressing table, it also smells completely divine! The perfume opens with notes of plums and grapes with sweet roses in its heart, refreshed with lemon and green apple and placed on the warm base of amber. It is a light sweet and floral fragrance perfect for Summer!
100ml £38
Available Nationwide from late April 2011

Ghost Enchanted Bloom 30ml
Ghost Enchanted Bloom is a gorgeous feminine fragrance. Opening with fresh, fruit and floral top notes of violet leaves, cranberry & bergamot. The gentle heart blends notes of jasmine and waterlilly which combine with the romantic accords of freesia. As the fragrance develops to its fullest, sweet peach caviar and warm amber with a final hint of musk develop. This is a truly gorgeous fragrance that I couldn’t get enough of.
£23, 50ml £27.65
www.feelunique.com

Clinique Happy In Bloom
Just in time for spring, this limited edition fresh, floral scent from Clinique has just hit the counters! The floral heart of the classic Happy fragrance is coupled with chilled, watery notes that give off a clean and cool scent. Yellow plum, a cocktail of frozen fruit, and watery green notes mix with lily of the valley, white freesia and a mimosa accord, transparent amber and white wood. It is a super fun and sexy fragrance for Summer and the bright floral pattern decorating the bottle is lovely!
30ml £23
www.clinique.co.uk

Cath Collins Flowers Of  The Orient
This is a truly unique fragrance from Cath Collins, made up of a blend of oriental fruits, woods and flowers. Citrus leads to a heart of peony, freesia and rose spiced with pink pepper. Base notes consist of patchouli, vetiver, amber and vanilla. This is definitely a fragrance for those who like to stand out from the crowd.
50ml £35
www.cathcollins.com

Nina Ricci L’Air du Temps
This is a beautiful classic fragrance from Nina Ricci that is perfect for Summer. It combines freshness and delicacy with feminine sensuality. With top notes of carnation and gardenia, middle notes of rose and jasmine and base notes of orris and Mysore sandalwood, a truly elegant fragrance. It is really long lasting so just a little spray in the morning will last all day!
50ml £51
www.johnlewis.com

Burberry Summer
I love the brand new Burberry Summer limited edition fragrance. This fruity floral fragrance has sparkling top notes of pomegranate with orange, mandarin and green leaf with floral heart notes of rose, freesia and lily of the valley and soft veil of cedar wood, sandal wood and white musk. It is simply divine!
100ml £33
www.debenhams.com

Versace Vanitas
This new floral fragrance from Versace’s is gorgeous, a really elegant fragrance. A beautiful fresh blend of lime, tiare and freesia, evoking the scent of a garden in full bloom, with a hint of cedar. It is a perfect clean feminine fragrance for Summer that I’m sure will become a firm favourite.
50ml £60
ww.harrods.com

Ted Baker Langley
With an air of vintage Glamour, this fresh feminine fragrance just released by Ted Baker is perfect for Summer. With top notes of sweet bergamot entwined with ginger and pink pepper. At its heart, rejuvenating petite grain and refreshing green tea with a twist of orange flower, and a smooth woody base note of musk, cedarwood and vetiver, all combine to define the charm of this delightfully elegant fragrance.
30ml £26
www.debenhams.com

DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossom Juiced
To celebrate spring, DKNY Be Delicious has introduced Fresh Blossom Juiced, a limited edition version of Be Delicious.
This gorgeous fragrance is a medley of just-picked blossoms and petals. The all-pink scent starts with pink grapefruit, bright freesias, fruity cassis and passion flower. At the heart is an apple, embraced by lily of the valley, pink rose petals and sweet pea. Palisander wood, vetiver mist and white musks add the ultimate soft under layer. It’s a light, fresh scent, perfect for Spring.
30ml £26.50
www.debenhams.com

Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia Cologne
English Pear & Freesia is the latest release from Jo Malone, it is a stunning subtle scent with a fruity and floral blend. The full-bodied pear note is combined with a honeyed, liquid note of quince and undercut with the delicate freshness of white freesias and scrambling wild roses. Base notes of patchouli, white amber and musk add a subtle warm undertone. An unconventional keynote of cool green rhubarb – acidic and at the same time soft – gives an unusual and distinctively modern sensibility to a classically understated and evocatively English fragrance. This is a classic Summer fragrance, it reminds me of my childhood Summers in the countryside picking fruit off the trees in my grandparents garden.
30ml £34, 100ml £68
www.jomalone.co.uk

Fleur de Vigne by Caudalie
I adore this scent Fleur de Vigne by Caudalie, it is a homage to the amazing vine blossom. The energizing scent is drawn from the heart of plants derived from aromatherapy and is enriched with essential oils and plant water.?With top notes of grapefruit, mandarin and bergamot, heart notes of blackcurrant, grape, lemon and orange and?base notes of sandalwood and cedar. It is a truly energizing fragrance that epitomizes Summer.
50ml £17
www.feelunique.com

Lucy b Royal Peony Rose & Mandarin Musk
This is a stunning floral fragrance from Lucy B, Royal Peony Rose and Mandarin Musk is a delicate and soft Rose and Mandarin scent, with top notes of Mandarin and Tangerine a heart of Pink Peony and base of delicate Camellia Flowers. It is a wonderful Summer scent that makes you think of being out in a rose garden, so beautifully romantic for a wedding. It is subtle and not overpowering yet it lingers on your skin all day, leaving no need to re-spritz.
51ml £40.95
www.lavishchoice.co.uk

L’Occitane Rose Jardin Delice
Jardin Délice by L’Occitane is a fabulous Summer fragrance, it blends delicate roses and fruity berries in a light, carefree and vibrant composition.
Opening with a green, delicate and transparent hint, recalling the dewdrops sliding down the ivy in the early morning. Then awakens a fruity floral heart, the precious harmony of four natural roses. The Rose is adorned with sweet raspberry and tangy and sparkling notes (lychee, blackcurrant and cranberry). The musky woody base notes bring a comforting sensation of softness.
It is a soft and delicate fragrance which for years to come will remind you of your romantic Summer back in 2011.
75ml £32
uk.loccitane.com

Liz Earle Botanical Essence
This is Liz Earle’s first bespoke fragrance and I love it, it will definitely be a hit with those who like natural, herbal scents. Only the finest natural botanical ingredients from around the world have been used. The top notes are bright and fresh with a hint of crisp sparkling fruit, bergamot, mandarin, orange, lemon and cardamon. The middle notes consist of rose absolute, lavender, geranium, coriander and nutmeg, with base notes of cedarwood, vetiver, tonka bean absolute, patchouli Gorgeous, a real Summer Classic!
50ml £40.35
www.johnlewis.com

Dior Eau Sauvage

Tommy Hilfiger Loud
Loud, by Tommy Hilfiger, despite its name and rock ‘n’ roll styled packaging is actually a rather clean and understated scent. Featuring patchouli, rose and tobacco, the combination is fresh, cool, sweet and even a little bit smokey. It’s an ideal day-to-day Summer fragrance to accompany the casual jeans and t-shirt style that it has been aimed at and the edgy packaging will appear to any music fan.
40ml £27.58 , 75ml £39.50
www.boots.com


Gucci by Gucci Sport Pour Homme
Gucci by Gucci SPORT Pour Homme is a great Summer scent. Jam packed with fruity, citrusy sweet aromas it captures the natural fresh smell of being in the countryside on a sunny day. The fragrance lasts a long time, a good 5 hours, and is ideal for day-to-day wear throughout the Summer.
50ml £41.50
www.thefragranceshop.co.uk

Versace Pour Homme
Versace Pour Homme is another scent that is great for Summer. Designed to convey an attitude of self confidence and masculinity, the initial citrusy aroma gives way to a fresh, cool, aquatic scent that works both as a day or evening fragrance.
50ml £41, 100ml £49
www.debenhams.com

Marc Jacobs Bang
Marc Jacobs Bang is the most stylishly packaged men’s fragrance in this article with its striking angular metallic bottle, which is guaranteed to draw attention. Beneath the stylised exterior is an intense, rich, spicy scent with deep woody and light peppery notes. With no floral or citrus notes this is a very manly fragrance, which also has great longevity, just one spray in the morning will see you through the day.
50ml £39.83, 100ml £51
www.johnlewis.com

Boss Orange Man
Boss Orange Man is a new fragrance for men designed as a counterpart to BOSS Orange for women. The fragrances have similar qualities with a prominent soothing vanilla component although Orange Man then combines this with some masculine woody notes and some crisp spiced apple to produce a very wearable Summer scent. Great for day-to-day wearand the chunky bottle looks good on the dresser too.
40ml £25, 60ml £35, 100ml £45
www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Dolce & Gabanna The One Gentleman
Dolce & Gabbana The One Gentleman, is a new fragrance for men in the popular “The One” range and has been launched to help mark the 20 year anniversary of their men’s fashion line. The scent is sophisticated and subtle with distinct pepper, vanilla and fennel components making for a warm, relaxing and gentlemanly scent.
50ml £41.50, 100ml £52.50
www.thefragranceshop.co.uk

Eau De Lacoste L.12.12 Blanc
Eau De Lacoste L.12.12 is a trio of new men’s fragrances from Lacoste which take inspiration from their most famous menswear garment, the original L.12.12 Polo shirt. The first of the scents is the ‘Blanc’ which pairs fresh, zingy grapefruit with cardamom and rosemary spices. The overall effect is a unique masculine, yet floral scent which is clean and fresh but with an underlying woody tone. A great Summer fragrance.
30ml £25, 100ml £42
www.boots.com
Dunhill Custom
‘Custom’ is the new signature fragrance from the men’s luxury brand Dunhill. Dunhill have combined crisp English apple with spicy black pepper, cedarwood and incense to create a warm, fresh, masculine aroma. Packaged in a stocky solid glass bottle, it looks like it means business and the cap has an aluminium plate which can be customised with a phrase or set of initials making it an ideal wedding gift. This fragrance is available exclusively at Harrods.
50ml £42, 100ml £54
www.harrods.com

Clinique Happy For Men
Clinique Happy For Men is a great refreshing summery scent. Packed with cool citrus aromas, the overall effect is very clean, fresh and uplifting. This fragrance works well for day or night.
50ml £29, 100ml £40
www.clinique.co.uk

ECKO by Marc Ecko
ECKO is the first fragrance from entrepreneur Marc Ecko. Created as a clean and bright daily-wear fragrance, this scent combines citrus and spice with crisp grapefruit and ginger notes tempered with liquorice. Overall, the effect is very smooth and works great as a summer scent.
50ml £29.99, 100ml £39.99
www.thefragranceshop.co.uk

Eau De L’Occitane Pour Homme
The new fragrance from L’Occitane has a distintive masculine, yet soothing, aroma featuring lavender blended with the peppery, nutmeg scent of burnt wood. With its rustic brown tinted bottle, this is a panoramic and complex fragrance which although intended for men, is also loved by women too.
100ml £35
uk.loccitane.com

A cheese wedding cake comprises a selection of cheeses, arranged in a tower and decorated as a centre piece for a wedding reception, in much the same way as a traditional cake would be. The cheeses are usually stacked one of top of one another, starting with the widest at the bottom and the smallest on top, although some people prefer to present them on cake stands. Smaller cheeses can be used to separate the larger tiers of cheese, and the cake can be decorated with flowers, fruit or foliage.

Wedding cheese cakes vary in size but on average they are three to seven tiers. The total weight of cheese needed depends on the number of guests to be served and whether the couple wants to use the cake for an additional, more informal celebration as well as the main event. Cheese cakes are perfect for an evening buffet – an assortment of breads, biscuits, pickles and other accompaniments is all that is needed.

As a general rule Teddington Cheese suggests allowing around 100g of cheese per person – which for simple budgeting purposes works out at around £2 – 2.50 per head. Exact costs vary depending on the cheese selected and how generous the host wants to be with the cheese.

The cakes can be decorated to match the theme of the wedding – either by the venue or the wedding organizer. Teddington Cheese is always happy to provide display advice to venues and wedding organizers.
For further information please visit www.teddingtoncheese.co.uk

The New collection incorporates exquisitely embellished butterflies and duchess silk roses with parisian lace and encrusted with swarovski and fresh water pearls.

The couture shoemakers can also custom your sale purchases – with a choice of hand made trims that incorporate crystals, feathers; even snippets of your wedding dress.

Freya Rose shoe event, 14th April 11 am-8pm

The Business Design Centre, 52 Upper St, Islington, London N1 0QH.

Book your appointment on 020 7288 6311 or info@freyarose.co.uk

Chococo Chocolate Union Jack Egg
I like finding an Easter Egg that is a little bit different and this one from The award winning Dorest based artisan chocolate company, Chococo was a real gem of a find! They have created this wonderful Union Jack Easter made from the finest Venezuelan milk chocolate. The outside of the egg is a layer of white chocolate decorated with a British flag of red and blue coloured chocolate and this inside layer of the chocolate egg is laced with dried strawberries and raspberries. Absolutely divine, I was so disappointed when I looked down to find I had finished it all!
£12.95
www.harveynichols.com

Lick the Spoon – Egg ‘n’ Spoons
Another fabulous find was this creation from Lick the Spoon. This milk chocolate Easter Egg is decorated with a quirky white chocolate fried egg. As well as this scrumptious chocolate egg it also comes with three caramel filled mini eggs on lickable chocolate spoons!
Priced £12.95
www.harveynichols.com

Prestat Rose & Violet Creme Easter Egg
The Rose and Violet Crème Easter Egg from Prestat is crafted from the finest dark chocolate (71%) and filled with Prestat’s legendary Rose and Violet Cremès (which it has been making for more than 100 years). The chocolate of the egg is delicious if you are a fan of dark chocolate and the Rose and Violet Cremès are divine! The beautiful box makes this a perfect Easter present.
£25
www.selfridges.com

Rococo Milk Chocolate Foiled Egg no3
This was one of my favourite Easter Eggs this year. The egg is made our of Rococo’s finest Milk Chocolate which was simply gorgeous and it was filled with a selection of their most popular chocolates, each one was more delicious than the next! It also comes in a beautiful box, making it a fabulous gift.
£21
www.rococochocolates.com

Green & Blacks Fairtrade Easter Egg
I am already a ahuge fan of Green & Blacks so I knew this egg was going to be good! The Green & Black’s Fairtrade 70% Milk Chocolate Easter Egg is made from the finest quality, ethically-produced, chocolate and it was melt in your mouth delicious! One of the things I loved about this one was unlike other Easter eggs it has an extra thick shell meaning their is a lot more chocolate to this egg than your traditional thin shelled eggs.
£5.59
Available at Waitrose Nationwide

Thorntons Easter Bundle

Now for some us one Easter egg just isn’t enough! If you want to spoil someone with something a bit more long-lasting that a suingle Easter egg then look no further than this Easter collection from Thorntons. It pretty much has it all: cute milk chocolate lollies, a milk, a dark and a white chocolate egg and a delicious milk chocolate Bunny – this should keep you going long after Easter (or if you are like me, at least keep you going through the Easter weekend).

£20

www.thorntons.co.uk

OTHER EASTER TREATS…

Hummingbird Bakery Easter Cupcakes
For those who are not tempted by the traditional Easter chocolates and eggs but still like to satisfy their sweet tooth, look no further than these amazing cupcakes from the wonderful Hummingbird bakery. These limited edition range of vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, delightfully decorated with spring flowers and handmade nests filled with chocolate eggs are too good to resist.

This selection of Easter-themed chocolate and vanilla cupcakes will be available for in-store purchase in all three of The Hummingbird Bakery’s London-based outlets. In addition, Easter Mini Delights cupcakes and hand decorated Easter chocolate layer cakes will be available by online pre-order via their website.
£2.95 each and available for in-store purchase from 18th – 25th of April
www.hummingbirdbakery.com

Custom Cookie Co – Large ‘Happy Easter’ Box
If you are looking for an Easter present to really impress then these gorgeous hand decorated cookies from the Custom Cookie Co will certainly do the trick. These scrumptious cookies come in a mixture of chocolate, ginger & vanilla flavours (unless all one flavour is requested). They are completely moorish and although the box is plenty big enough to share, I pretty much polished off the whole lot in one weekend.
The cookies come beautifully presented in a lined black or pink gift box and include a ribboned gift tag bearing your message.
£24
www.customcookieco.co.uk

Biscuiteers Biscuit Cards
Another fabulous idea for cookie lovers are these cute Easter Biscuit Cards from Biscuiteers. Instead of just a boring old card your loved one will receive a scrumptious treat too. All Biscuiteers biscuits are handmade and then iced by hand and they taste delicious.

There are three options for the Easter Biscuit Cards, the cute Easter Bunny card, the adorable Duckling and Eggs card – or the Personalised Easter Bunnies card, which also allow you to include your own special message iced on to the Easter Egg cookie.
From £9
www.biscuiteers.com

Waitrose Florianne Belgian Chocolate Hand Decorated Eggs
Not everyone is a fan of Easter eggs and for those who are not but still like to indulge in a bit of chocolate then these gorgeous Belgian Chocolate filled eggs from Waitrose will be the perfect Easter treat. Each one is filled with a different type of chocolate and each one is simply as delicious as the last.
£4
www.waitrose.com

Easter Treats for £1
For Easter treats at just £1 you can’t go wrong at Poundland, they stock everything from £1 easter eggs to other favourites such as Crème Eggs, Caramel Minis and my all time favourites the Malteaser Bunnies, I am completely obsessed with these at the moment and have been scoffing down about three a day! What better excuse is there to over-indulge in chocolate than Easter!
www.poundland.co.uk

The collection includes Sachi – a silk organza A line dress with sweetheart neckline, 100% silk duchess satin cummerbund and long trailing tails; and Sapphire – a Chantilly lace v-neck gown with stunning beaded detail under bust.

The collection is available at the following Caroline Castigliano boutiques:

62 Berners Street London W1T 3NN

40 Water Lane Wilmslow Cheshire SK9 5BG

5-6 Saw Close Bath BA1 1EN

6 Waterloo Place Edinburgh EH1 3BG

10 Tunsgate Guildford GU1 3QT

12 The Headrow Leeds LS1 6PT

To view the collection, please make an appointment by visiting http://www.carolinecastigliano.co.uk/boutiques

]]> http://theweddinggirl.co.uk/wordpress/?feed=rss2&p=9406 0 http://theweddinggirl.co.uk/wordpress/?p=9381 http://theweddinggirl.co.uk/wordpress/?p=9381#comments Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:15:14 +0000 theweddinggirl http://theweddinggirl.co.uk/wordpress/?p=9381 As more couples are opting for bespoke ceremonies and less formal receptions for their wedding day, finding the right venue often proves difficult. Most venues insist on a specific package, a minimum number of guests, drinks package, and the costs keep mounting up, and all you really have is the same wedding as the day before, just with a different couple and guests, well that is where Backyard Weddings comes in.

Backyard Weddings is a new company formed to deliver a complete wedding package to your garden. Carolyn Bavister is the owner of the award winning, unique and rural wedding venue Danby Castle and their flexibility or location was still not right for some couples. Over the past year it had become apparent to Carolyn that there was a big gap in the market place to service the needs of engaged couples who would like to get married and celebrate their wedding in their own or parents gardens, on a family farm or similar.

This is where Backyard Weddings step in. Take the Vintage Tea Party package launched by Danby Castle Events in conjunction with The Fine and Funky Events Company and The Arches Bespoke Culinary Concept, add in a bespoke wedding ceremony from One Life Ceremonies and you have your own ‘Backyard Wedding’.

Backyard Weddings offers 3 great packages which all include: A bespoke Wedding Ceremony, marquee with lining, chandeliers, furniture, linen, vintage styling package, vintage tea party catering package and on the day management.

The packages are:
Backyard Garden – for up to 50 guests
Backyard Orchard – for up to 100 guests
Backyard Meadow – for up to 150 guests

To find out more visit their website www.backyardweddings.co.uk