northern bride winter 2013

FREE COPY | WINTER 2013/14

THEME YOUR DAYCountry Garden Weddings

banish THOSE WINTER

BLUES WITH OUR

moisturising BEAUTY PRODUCTS

REAL LIFEWEDDINGS

win

Weddings at Home orAbroadWe feature ideasfor both options

FREE COPY | WINTER 2013/14

NORTHERNBride

TICKETS TOTHE BIGGEST

WEDDING SHOWS IN THE NORTH

NORTH EAST | HONEYMOONS & WEDDINGS ABROAD | NORTH WEST

W W W . N AT I O N A L W E D D I N G S M A G A Z I N E . C O . U K

EDITOR'S CHOICEThe Majestic Hotel,Harrogate

MEET THE TEAM

Reproducti on of any writt en material, adverti sement or illustrati on in this publicati on in any form is expressly forbidden, unless the prior consent of the editor has been given in writi ng. Neither Black Cat Publishing Limited or Alicat Design accept liability for loss or damage to photographs or any other material submitt ed to the magazine. All product/service details are correct at ti me of printi ng and we will accept no liability for any incorrect content within the magazine.

Black Cat Publishing Limited & Nati onal Weddings Magazine will not be held responsible or liable for a company’s product or service. Should you receive an unacceptable service or you are unhappy with any product purchased from a company adverti sing in Nati onal Weddings Magazine then any complaint must be taken up with the off ending company and not with Black Cat Publishing Ltd or Nati onal Weddings Magazine.

Denise RussellGroup Publishing Editoreditor@nationalweddingsmagazine.co.ukwww.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.uk01455 554929

Sarah VernonGroup Account Manager

sarah@nationalweddingsmagazine.co.ukwww.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.uk

01455 556957

Sian HarrisonFeatures' Assistant & P.A. to the Editorsian@nationalweddingsmagazine.co.ukwww.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.uk01455 556957

Melanie LeeAccount Executive

mel@nationalweddingsmagazine.co.ukwww.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.uk

01455 556957

Nikkie CadenAccount Executivenikkie@nationalweddingsmagazine.co.ukwww.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.uk01455 556957

Alison MerryAliCat Design

designstudio@nationalweddingsmagazine.co.ukwww.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.uk

01455 554929

Find us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter@natweddingsmag

Write to us:Black Cat Publishing Ltd,Hill House, Regent Street,LutterworthLeicestershire LE17 4BE

Welcome to the Winter issue of Northern Bride Magazine. It’s brimming with ideas, tips and advice to help you create your perfect wedding. Whether you’re planning to pull out all the stops, keeping things low-key and intimate, or opting for a glamorous overseas celebration, the following pages feature all you need to know to help guide you through the planning process.

I stayed at The Majestic Hotel in Harrogate in Autumn. It’s such a wonderful hotel and is set in the heart of one of my favorite Towns in the North of England. You can read all about this truly wonderful hotel on my Editor Recommends page.

There’s a tear-jerking Real Life Wedding story for you in this issue. Get your tissues ready and read all about Tammy & Tom’s journey to the alter. The story is accompanied by some beautiful images courtesy of Alan Harding.

Banish those dull days and dark wintery evenings with a Country Garden theme for your big day. Anything’s possible, so you need look no further than the pages of Northern Bride Magazine to fi nd quality suppliers and inspiration.

And if you really want to get away from it all and marry overseas then take a look at our Wedding News Abroad pages. We’ve picked three short dresses which are perfect for a beach wedding and taken a look at a selection of themed stationery and accessories.

We’ve teamed up with The National and UK Wedding Shows. They’re giving you the chance to win tickets. We’ll be exhibiting at these shows so make sure you come along to see us. We’re also giving you the chance to win a bow tie from Dunford Wood. Entering is easy. Simply visit our website and click on the Competitions page link.

If you’ve recently been married and want to share your story with Northern Bride readers then simply email me at [email protected] and you could see your big day in print. Alternatively if you can offer advice to other brides or want to ask a question then please send them in to me and i’ll do my bestto help.

Enjoy…

If you enjoy reading Northern Bride Magazine, why not have a look at our sister magazine National Weddings Magazine. View it for free on the websitewww.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.uk or pick up your free copy at the biggest and best wedding fairs and shows nationwide.

Denise Denise Russell, Editor

TAKE A LOOK AT OUR NEW LOOK WEBSITE...www.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.uk...where you can find links to all our advertisers, enter our

competitions & reader offers and much more.

Editor'sLETTER

7 Moisturising Beauty Finds

18 Theme Your Day

19 Real Life Wedding

12 Editor's Choice

44 Weddings Abroad

9 Competition & Reader Off ers

7 Beauty News

10 Wedding News

14 Wedding Services

22 Photography & Videography

24 Manchester

26 North West

37 Yorkshire

40 North East

42 Scotland

44 Honeymoons & Weddings Abroad

WIN WIN WIN

CONTENTS

BEAUTY NEWS p7

WIN WIN WIN p9

WEDDING NEWS p10

THE COLOUR OF LOVE p34

REAL LIFE WEDDING p19

REGIONAL GUIDE LONDON & THE HOMECOUNTIES p63

THE FRONT COVERWEDDING NEWS ABROAD p44

ON THE FRONT COVER

REGULARS




REGIONAL GUIDE LONDON & THE HOME


REGIONAL GUIDE LONDON & THE HOMELONDON & THE HOMECOUNTIESLONDON & THE HOMECOUNTIESTHEME - COUNTRY GARDEN p18

HEN & STAG IDEA p14

Image provided by www.juliewilliamsphotography.co.uk

6 Northern Bride Magazine

100 ml Eau de Parfum Spray £37.5050 ml Eau de Parfum Spray £30.0030 ml Eau de Parfum Spray £20.00200 ml Body Lotion £18.95Available from The Fragrance Shop

Northern Bride Magazine 7

10fabulous ways to keep moisturised this winter...

beautyNEWSGreat Skin for Him £30 www.c

linique.co.uk

Multi-Active Night Cream £43 www.clarins.com

Multi-Active Day Cream £40 www.clarins.com

ClarinsMen Super Moisture Balm £28.00 www.clarins.com

Grace Cole Boutique Nectarine Blossom & Grapefruit Body Care Duo £12 Boots and www.gracecole.co.uk

WEN® by Chaz Dean Introductory Kit

£29.99 wenhaircare.co.uk

Nivea Men Originals rehydrating moisturiser £8 www.niveamen.co.uk


100% Natural Australian Jojoba 30ml £12.9985ml £19.99 www.oneway2naturalhealth.com

Meaningful Beauty® from Cindy Crawford

£74.85 www.meaningfulbeauty.co.uk

Spa Find Foot Care Cream £18 for 100ml & Hand Care Cream £15 for 100ml.

Spa Find Foot Cream £18 100ml www.shopforspa.com


The London ExCeLWedding ShowLondon ExCeL11th - 12th January 2014

The West MidlandsWedding ShowRICOH Arena, Coventry18th - 19th January 2014

The North EastWedding ShowMetro Radio Arena, Newcastle25th - 26th January 2014

The West of England Wedding ShowUniversity of West of England, Bristol 8th - 9th February 2014

NEW

Reader offers& COMPETITIONS

Dunford Wood create hand painted silk bow ties, long ties and waistcoats. Each piece is completely one-of-a-kind and made in Dorset, and over the years they have adorned discerning gents including the likes Woody Allen, John Cleese and even Freddie Mercury. A handmade Dunford Wood bow tie retails from £65, and they’re available to order online athttp://dunfordwood.com/To enter please visit: www.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.uk and click on our competitions page

WINA Dunford Wood Bow Tie

Want to get your hands on a pair of tickets toThe UK Wedding Shows? We have 10 pairs of tickets to give away to one of the following shows:

To enter the ticket giveaway please visitwww.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.ukand click on the competitions page

WIN WIN WIN WIN

We’ve teamed up withThe National Wedding Show.

They are offering 10 pairs of tickets toThe National Wedding Show, Manchester

Central on 15th & 16th March 2014& The National Wedding Show,

NEC, Birmingham from the28th February to 2nd March 2014

TICKET GIVEAWAY


WeddingNEWS

Silver Sixpence Films create beautiful, bespoke, cinematic wedding fi lms. Run by a husband and wife team, Silver Sixpence Films was launched following a long career run in the Hollywood fi lm industry. They offer a range of skills thanks to their experience working on feature fi lms such as Harry Potter and James Bond Skyfall as well as having over ten years experience of making wedding fi lms for friends and family. “We approach each wedding fi lm with a vision to be individual

and interesting whilst capturing the beauty and romance of your wedding day. We strive to make sure that our fi lms are bespoke to each couple and aim to make every fi lm watchable and interesting to everyone, not just the bride and groom. We have an incredibly cinematic style that will make any wedding fi lm unique.”

info@silversixpencefi lms.comwww.silversixpencefi lms.com

Beautiful, Bespoke

Cinematic wedding films:

In the heart of Edinburgh, the 4 star Carlton Hotel is ideally located for exploring this vibrant and diverse city. It overlooks North Bridge and the Royal Mile and is just minutes from Princes Street and the legendary Edinburgh Castle. With a fun and friendly vibe, the Carlton Hotel boasts a fabulous restaurant and bar and has the most interesting health club situated below ground. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities including an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, spa pool, squash courts and a fi tness suite/ gym. The hotel’s Beauty Rooms offer a wide range of spa and beauty treatments and is the perfect treat after exploring the

city or after some serious retail therapy.

If it’s Edinburgh you’ve come to see then look no further as this hotel has magnifi cent views of the City. A select number of rooms offer guests the chance to enjoy far reaching views of the City and beyond. All their rooms offer tasteful, comfortable accommodation with all the facilities that you expect from a great 4 star hotel. Edinburgh is a fantastic city and you need look no further for a better venue from which to base yourself. www.pumahotels.co.uk

Rooms with aview, fromThe CarltonHotel,Edinburgh.

MyTuxedo.co.uk is the number one online formal wear shop bringing style, expertise and convenience together. MyTuxedo.co.uk enables a hassle free service and high quality formalwear with prices up to 50% cheaper than the high street.

With the latest men’s wedding attire for 2013 already available. It is the most convenient and best value formal wear shop for any groom and wedding party, with the largest range of wedding wear and all at unbeatable prices.

My Tuxedo caters for all ages and occasions offering tuxedos, morning suits, dress shirts, waistcoats, shoes, cravats and bow ties, with the largest collection of colours and patterns available. Having supplied suits to a number of prestigious clients including the BBC, MTV, The X Factor and James Bond fi lms, MyTuxedo.co.uk also provides same-day despatch and next-day delivery!

www.mytuxedo.co.uk

The number one online formal wear shop


The National Wedding Show Manchester is set to be the largest wedding event this spring. Taking place at Manchester Central 15-16 March 2014, the show is an essential day out for every bride-to-be in the North West this season.

From bridesmaids and grooms-wear to fl orists, venues, photographers, cake designers, jewellers, wedding planners and honeymoon destinations, you'll fi nd over 250 leading wedding suppliers including some of the biggest names in the industry; House of Fraser, Debenhams, Moss Bros, John Lewis, Berketex, Ivory & Co, Virgin Holidays and more! Featuring 1000s of dresses in three distinct bridal-wear areas, the show hosts a dream dress to match any budget, from high street designers to couture dresses with designers including Suzanne Neville, Jenny Packham, Justin Alexander, andNaomi Neoh.

If that isn’t enough, there will be interactive sessions in the Wedding Theatre where you can gain personal advice from leading wedding experts!

Afterwards, be inspired even further by the stunning showcase of dresses, accessories and fl owers on the UK’s largest wedding Catwalk show which takes place four times daily.The Vintage Area at The National Wedding Show celebrates this growing trend for weddings with exquisite antique dresses to vintage-style fl owers, décor and wedding invitations then unwind in the Afternoon Tea Room with a traditional cream tea.

To start the celebrations early, indulge yourself and party with a glass of bubbly and a delicious bite to eat in the Champagne Bar or VIP Lounge.Located at Manchester Central, with free parking for all visitors, The National Wedding Show Manchester is the ultimate event for brides-to-be which makes planning, preparing and shopping for the perfect day as enjoyable as it should be.

Book your tickets today and quote ‘NBM’* to save over 15%! www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk or call 0844 874 0486

The National Wedding Showheads to Manchester

This season'smust-seeWEDDINGSHOWS

*Saving relates to the door price of £18.50. Calls cost 10p form a BT landline other networks may vary. Code valid until midnight 13.3.14. A £2 transaction fee applies.

Show opening times:Saturday10am - 6pm

Sunday10am - 5pm

The North East’s largest wedding show will be the headline act at the Metro Radio Arena from January 25-26, providing brides and grooms to-be with ideas and advice for their big day. The North East Wedding Show, presented by The UK Wedding Shows, promises to be bigger and better

than ever thanks to its new owners, Ocean Media Group. Now in its 14th year the show will feature more than 100 wedding specialists as well as fashion shows and a new Expert Theatre offering tips and advice for organising the big day.

Visitors will see hundreds of products and services on offer such as bridal and bridesmaid dresses, venues, limousine and classic car hire, honeymoon destinations, stationers, fl orists, tiaras, shoes and hair and beauty products. Local exhibitors will include Snaparazzi, Kelly Ann's Cakes, Exclusive Yacht Weddings, Alan Gibson Photography, One Digital Image, WF Executive, atelier de fl eurs andSlaley Hall.

The event will also feature catwalks showcasing the latest bridal wear, occasion wear, grooms wear and mother of the bride dresses from companies including Accent Original Bridal, Jules B, Slaters, Kate Fearnley and Kathryn Russell.

Following a full day of shopping, visitors will have the chance to relax with a glass of fi zz in the show’s bistro area. New for this year, the Expert Theatre is where Brides can get advice and help on planning the wedding, photography and how to achieve the best look, hair and beauty tips and tricks and

most importantly an inspirational session on choosing the right dress.

Bev Howard, event manager at Ocean Media Group said: “We are really excited about this year’s show which promises to be bigger and better than ever. With 300,000* couples in the UK tying the knot every year spending just over £20,000** on their big day, weddings are big business so it’s important the bride and groom get as much inspiration as they can. There’ll be so much to see at the show from wedding specialists, fashion shows and advice clinics all under one roof - in fact everything they will need for their perfect day”.

The show will take place from 10am-5pm on both days and fashion shows will take place at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm every day. All visitors will receive a free goody bag and a free show guide which includes all the contact details and advice a bride needs to plan their perfect day.

The venue is easily accessible by public transport and there is plenty of parking at the Metro Radio Arena.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.theukweddingshows.co.uk

North East’s biggest Wedding Show set to take centre stage

Spring UK Diary Dates:The London ExCeLWedding ShowLondon ExCeL11th - 12th January 2014

The West MidlandsWedding ShowRICOH Arena, Coventry18th - 19th January 2014

The North EastWedding ShowMetro Radio Arena, Newcastle25th - 26th January 2014

The West of England Wedding ShowUniversity of West of England, Bristol 8th - 9th February 2014

NEW


Today’s couples are faced with a generous range of venues for their big day, but none

stands as proud in its setting as The Majestic in Harrogate. Overlooking Harrogate, this stunning hotel has an enviable reputation and manages to blend quality in all departments with a service that is second to none.

There is a subtle air of sophistication atThe Majestic and if it wasn’t for the modern facilities, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you had stepped back in time. However, a hotel is simply a building without its staff. The imposing public rooms, comfortable bedrooms and well- appointed en-suite bathrooms would be worthless if not run by staff whom pride themselves in their work. Friendly respect and a ‘can-do’ attitude comes as standard here.

Dominating a hill top position, eight acres of award-wining gardens wrap themselves around the hotel, offering quiet privacy and creating a truly romantic and picturesque setting.

For a rather splendid Wedding Ceremony, The Majestic, boasts eight beautiful function rooms. Full of period features and grandeur, you’re

spoilt for choice. The opulent Reading and Drawing Rooms boast huge crystal chandeliers, magnifi cent fi replaces and views over the gardens. Whilst the Billiard Room has an imposing hand-carved wooden fi replace and the intimate French Restaurant is a feast for the eyes with its ornate columns and large bay window.

Licensed to hold civil ceremonies, these rooms lend themselves well for both Ceremony and Reception.

Editor'sCHOICE

The Majestic Hotel, Harrogate

A double room atThe Majestic Hotel, Harrogate starts from £89 per night, based on two people sharing a double room on a room only basis.Visit www.pumahotels.co.ukor call 0800 652 8413


Alton Towers Resort is the UK’s number one short-break destination. It’s a great option for a fun-fi lled Stag or Hen weekend. The Resort offers one of the world’s leading Theme Parks with ground breaking rollercoasters and endless fun; two fantastical hotels; a wacky waterpark with gallons of fun; a luxurious spa for the ultimate in treatments, and zany entertainment at the Extraordinary Golf.

A Theme Park of fi rsts….. Alton Towers Resort has Europe's fi rst inverted rollercoaster, Nemesis and the world's fi rst vertical drop rollercoaster in the frightening Oblivion. Experience the ultimate rollercoaster; TH13TEEN, which is the world’s fi rst free fall drop coaster. Their latest addition is ‘The Smiler’ Not only does The Smiler have a jaw dropping 14 inversions and plunging 30 metre drops, the ride also features manipulating effects that will mess with your body and mind!

There’s so much to squeeze into one day so an overnight stay is a must. Rooms cater for from four people, making it a really affordable option for groups. Alton Towers Hotel is home to three fantastically themed restaurants: The Secret Garden Restaurant, The Emperor Grill, and The Atrium, as well as the relaxing Dragon Bar; so you can be as formal or relaxed as you wish. Whichever hotel you are staying in, you can choose to eat in any of the restaurants and drink at any of the bars. As an overnight guest in one of the hotels, you can access some of Theme Park’s most popular rides and attractions a full hour before the Theme Park opens to the public! To further enhance your weekend, ensure you spend as much time on the rides - Fastrack tickets will reduce your waiting time on selected rides and really makes a difference during the busier periods.

A weekend at The Alton Towers Resort is also a great option for those couples who want to share their Stag and Hen weekends. ‘STEN’ Weekends are becoming really popular (especially with civil partnerships). With two hotels, you could have Stag’s in one and Hen’s in the other and whilst one group is off having fun in the Theme Park, the others can enjoy a range of beauty treatments in the Spa. Its central location, sandwiched between the M1 & M6 motorways, is also of benefi t to those who have guests meeting up from all over the country. For further details please visit www.altontowers.com

Offering a fantasticfun-filled weekend for both Stag & Hen alike



WEDDING SERVICES

18 Northern Bride Magazine18 Northern Bride Magazine

themeCOUNTRY GARDEN www.rachelles.co.uk

www.rachelles.co.uk

www.heartinvites.com



www.knotsandkisses.co.uk

www.favoursfromus.co.ukwww.thegardengatefl owercompany.co.uk

www.thegardengatefl owercompany.co.uk www.shropshirepetals.com

www.shropshirepetals.com

www.shropshirepetals.com

www.luckandluck.co.uk



www.kittywaikiki.co.uk

www.kittywaikiki.co.uk


www.boxcleverwedding.co.uk


Tammy & Tom4th April, 2012My little girl Tienna and I moved into Tom’s fl at and then just before Christmas 2008 we moved into a house of our own. Tom lost his job shortly after so money was tight and times were hard. Despite this, we were very happy and over the moon when our second little girl, Ziani was born in June 2010.

Tom managed to get a job with a maintenance team, doing very well and securing several qualifi cations, even being promoted to supervisor. During this time I completed a nail technician course in Manchester. It was a turnaround in fortunes and things were on the up. Life was good. Tom saved hard and on Valentine’s Day 2011, I came home to fi nd a teddy bear holding a red envelope. Thiscontained a love letter and a ring. Tom had also booked a holiday for the four of us in May 2011 to Lanzarote.

It was during this holiday that Tom fi rst became ill. The pain he had been experiencing in his neck and jaw became quite severe. Tom just took pain killers and got on with it. On returning home, back at work Tom was struggling with weakness in his limbs, dizziness and nose bleeds. His boss was quite concerned and together they looked up the symptoms on the internet. What they found was really worrying. Tom had previously been to see his doctor, who had told him it was just an infection and prescribed antibiotics. Tom’s boss was not happy with this and decided to take Tom to the hospital himself. In August 2011 Tom had blood tests anda biopsy.

The news at work was bad. There was no funding left to employ Tom, and although his boss had been hopeful for a permanent position he was made redundant. The news from the hospital was far worse. We were told to prepare for bad news, and on

the 15th September, 2011 Tom was diagnosed with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma. The cancer had spread to his neck, collar bone, lymph nodes and lungs. The consultant said that it was very rare. He had never seen it in this country before and certainly never in someone so young. Tom was 24 years old. In the midst of the pain and intense medication we refused to give in and we just got on with it. We went on that same year to pass our driving tests, both in the same week, and both with 6 minors each! We felt it was an omen. In November, 2011 Tom started an intense course of chemotherapy. He contracted a severe infection (PVL), and spent Christmas in hospital. The children spent Christmas with grandma and grandad, while I stayed by Tom’s side. It was touch and go for a while, and doctors were amazed at Tom’s recovery. He came home for New Year. There was nothing else that could be done for him. He was advised to go home and spend some quality time with his family. Tom resolved to do just that!

{continued...}

real lifeWEDDING


When Valentine’s Day came round again Tom made a special effort. This time when I came home, there was a lovely candlelit meal waiting, and Tom down on one knee proposing. Tom presented me with a beautiful new ring, and the news that a family friend had offered the loan of their villa in Portugal for two weeks. Time was not on our side and before leaving for Portugal, I set up a donations page on Facebook to try to raise £1,000 pounds to enable us to have a modest wedding day. I called my cause ‘MakingPrecious Memories’.

I felt a bit embarrassed about asking for money, and even more embarrassed to think that maybe nobody would be interested and there might be no replies. Amazingly, what happened next was just the opposite. Donations and offers of help poured in from anywhere and everywhere. Family, friends, acquaintances and even complete strangers wanted to help. A local businessman, Wesley Hall, became involved co-ordinating a dream wedding for us. Towneley Hall, Burnley offered a venue for the service and The Oaks Hotel, Burnley offered a venue for the reception.

There were offers of cars, horses and carriages, dresses, suits, flowers, catering; everything from invitations to wine glass charms, hair, nails and make up, a cake, and everything else that you could possibly imagine for a dream wedding. I was overwhelmed at the generosity of complete strangers.

The date was set for 4th April, 2012. We didn’t really believe it. We thought that when

4th April came we would discover it had all been just a dream. The day dawned cold, wet, blustery and snowing! Nobody cared; everyone

felt fit to burst with excitement. A lovely lady called Sue delivered two temporary wedding bands that very morning. They have since been collected to be returned, replaced by the real thing! Photographers were everywhere, filming among the dresses, suits, shoes, hairdressers, make up ladies, and the little girls all running around excitedly in their knickers. Zoie (one of the photographers) made me feel fabulous; she was so professional and confident and really put me at ease. Tom had a great morning at home with all his brothers and Daniel, his best man, all nice and relaxed and gettingready together.

‘Making Precious Memories’

"Donations and offers of help poured in from

anywhere and everywhere."


Alan (Images Photography) was amazing, he really put everyone at ease and captured every moment that we will treasure forever. Tom had a couple of beers and felt great. Even the weather improved. It suddenly all felt real when I got into the beautiful carriage with my dad. The horses were fantastic and the drive up to Towneley Hall will stay with me forever. I was nervous when I arrived and asked the registrar how many people were here. “Oh about half a dozen,” she said. When I entered the wedding suite and saw about 100 people there along with all the photographers I was just overcome with emotion.

It had just been the four of us for ages. We hadn’t seen any of our friends and here they all were; it was amazing. Tom said when he saw me coming up the aisle, he had to bite his bottom lip to stop himself from crying. We had to agree that every single thing was perfect. My dress donated by Lulu Brown of Whalley was stunning, the bridesmaids were gorgeous and the venue was beautiful. Tom said his three girls looked like angels and he was so proud.

There were white doves in cages which we freed with our two little girls, and the photographs were going to be amazing. During the photos I fell over. Normally, I would have been so embarrassed but I was so happy I didn’t care. We all just laughed.When the carriage pulled up at The Oaks Hotel we couldn’t believe our eyes. There was a bouncy castle and a play bus for the kids. There was a band playing in the reception area, a magician was performing tricks for the guests and an artist was drawing caricatures of people. Everyone was having

a great time and the atmosphere was electric. Inside, the suite had been beautifully dressed,with flowers and ribbons; there was a chocolate fountain and a sweet stall. There was even a video booth and a photo booth for people to leave messages. Alan miraculously captured it all. We can’t wait to see the photos. Everything was amazing. I was particularly impressed with the young man who made all the wonderful food for

100 guests. I spoke to him as he was packing away. He was only my age and he did a wonderful job. I don’t know how he pulled it off. He was brilliant! During the speeches, Daniel the best man, an old school friend of

Tom’s who is normally ultra confident, broke down with emotion. He couldn’t finish his speech, so he gave it to us to read later. It was amazing and we will treasure it.

The whole day and evening through to 1 o’clock in the morning went superbly and amazingly without a single hitch. It was the happiest day of our lives. Our photographs are unbelievable and we can’t stop looking at them. What Alan did for us that day was unforgettable. We have no idea how we are ever going to be able to thank everybody who helped to make our wedding day so special. All the thanks in the world just doesn’t seem enough. We are so grateful we have been given the most preciousof memories.

Tom said when he saw me coming up the aisle, he had to bite his bottom lip to stop

himself from crying.

Photography by Alan Harding Photographywww.alanhardingphotography.comemail: [email protected]. 07885971211


PHOTOGRAPHY& VIDEOGRPAHY


MANCHESTER


NORTH WEST


YORKSHIRE


NORTH EAST


SCOTLAND


SCOTLAND

VISIT OUR NEW LOOK WEBSITE...

www.nationalweddingsmagazine.co.uk

...where you can find links to all our advertisers, enter our competitions

& reader offers and view our sister magazine


The perfect footwear for a beach wedding...

wedding newsABROAD


If you're getting married abroad here's our pick of the perfect wedding stationery



editor's choiceFOR A PERFECT

WEDDING ABROADWith it's stunning scenery, crystal clear waters & tropical climate it is made for romance! Check out Windjammer Landing perfect for your big day whether you want to marry in solitude or as part of a large celebration they cater for all. Our defi nition of paradise. for more information visit www.windjammer-landing.com

Windjammer Landing p46

If you are considering Mauritius for your honeymoon and wish to stay at an all inclusive property you can’t go far wrong with Beachcomber, not only did they pioneer the hotel industry on the island but they are also offering a 50% saving on all inclusive supplements at 3 of their hotels in Mauritius for travel all the way through to 30 November 2014. www.beachcombertours.co.uk

all inclusiveMAURITIUS

HONEYMOON

editor's choiceAll available from www.elegantsteps.co.uk

2 Arianna Poppy Barefoot Sandals

3 Arianna Shala Barefoot Sandals

2 Arianna Poppy Barefoot Sandals

1 Colourful Creations Blast Silver


We pick 3short dresses...If you're getting married abroad why not try a shorter wedding dress. Perfect for a wedding in warmer climates!

Perfect for aBEACH WEDDING

2

1 www.amandawyatt.com style: Austria

2 www.amandawyatt.co.uk style: Levi

3 Romantica style: Bliss

1

3

If your idea of the perfect honeymoon is sitting on a white sandy beach or it involves colourful landscapes, incredible wildlife encounters, meeting fascinating people, then a honeymoon booked with Connoisseur Travel is right for you. We will help guide you to the perfect location. Our friendly and approachable staff have extensive knowledge and their expertise will help to lift your experience out of the ordinary. Our repeat honeymoon clients going back over 12 years is testimony to how much we look after our clients.www.connoisseurtravel.co.uk t: 01403 272143

PERFECTHONEYMOONS


At the end of a private road, winding down towards the Caribbean Sea, you will find a resort like no other. The

initial, friendly welcome envelops you and the accompanying rum punch knocks your socks off!

If first impressions last, then you’re sure to be left with the most wonderful memories of this place. You’d be mistaken if you think that Windjammer Landing was just another Caribbean resort. Gentle steps take you down to a crescent shaped beach where the warm and inviting waters of Labrelotte Bay await. As a backdrop, the Windjammer boasts over sixty acres of colourful gardens and lush tropical flora, all set into a hillside which overlooks the Bay. A myriad of stunning villas peep out from in between the vegetation, evocative of a real tropical Eden. Dedicated resort Mini buses transport you to and from your villa. An excellent service, especially so for those staying in villas further up the hillside.

The original concept was to create a Mediterranean village in the Caribbean and it certainly has this vibe, with Villas being styled and impeccably furnished to combine Caribbean décor with Mediterranean charm. Windjammer Landing really is the ideal retreat for couples. Each Villa offers its own piece of paradise, incorporating romantic, opalescent plunge pools and private decks or verandahs which offer a real sense of privacy. Why settle for a room with a view when you can opt for a Villa with views from every room! Each Villa has been cleverly

designed and built in order to present you with jaw-dropping views of the Caribbean Sea and to make the most of the captivating sunsets. As well as one, two, three and four bedroom villas, the Resort also offers traditional rooms and suites. The Hibiscus Suites, aptly named from Windjammers’ tropical garden landscapes, provide high-end accommodation, some with private hot-tubs and all benefiting from wonderful views across the bay. Alternatively, the exclusive estate villas, having three or four bedrooms come complete with a dedicated private chef allowing guests to dream up a delicious feast suitable for an intimatewedding reception.

A resort like no other

WindjammerLanding Villa Beach Resort, St. Lucia

Editor's Choice


The resort itself has an abundance of atmosphere which is complemented by the charismatic staff. Bartholomew Thomas, Bar Manager and Caribbean cocktail concocter extraordinaire is renowned for his creative cocktail menus. Thomas can create you a signature cocktail for your wedding and indeed did so for us on Valentine’s Day creating my husband and I, a ‘Valentine Velvet’ cocktail.

There are five different restaurants offering casual to elegant cuisine to suit your mood. My favorite was The Upper Deck. This beach-front restaurant was the ideal spot in which to enjoy a lunchtime snack and the most wonderful place to retreat to after a day on the beach. I spent many late afternoons here relaxing with a glass of wine whilst watching the sun dip into theCaribbean Sea.

With a Beachfront Gazebo framed by Casurania trees, a Seaside Dock that transforms into a red-carpet runway and barefoot Wedding set against pristine beach and the cobalt blue wants of Labrelotte Bay this resort really does offer some truly wonderful wedding locations, accompanied by picture perfect backdrops. I spoke with Sherani Augustin, Director of Sales at Windjammer Landing: “The luxurious seclusion of Windjammer Landing is the perfect place to get away from it all. We can cater for every requirement, whether you want to marry in solitude or as part of a larger celebration. Your Wedding Day is one of the most important days of your life and here at Windjammer Landing we'll make sure it's one of the most extraordinary as well. We have staff devoted to accommodating your every need including two dedicated specialist on call 24 hours a day”. When she says dedicated, she means dedicated! They’re always available to talk to

and have a direct link to the Legal Department and therefore can resolve any legal problems immediately. A comfort when you’remarrying overseas.

“It’s all about the service and the experience. She continued: “We start off as friends and end up as close as family”, and after meeting Sherani and other members of the Windjammer team I truly believe her.

Described as a ‘Hilltop hideaway with a friendly, vibe’ I have to say I fell completely in love with The Windjammer and all it has to offer. Sophisticated fun with pockets of tranquility is what’s on offer at this fabulous resort; it’s my definition of paradise and I believe it’s the perfect Caribbean resort in which to say ‘I Do’.

The staff never say goodbye………..It’s

“till next time” and I certainly hope there will be, as I can honestly say this is one of the best resorts I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying at.

WindjammerLanding Resort

is offering newly engagedcouples a stress-free way to plan

their upcoming nuptials,

Say Yes Before I DoThe bride and groom can come and experience all that

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort has to offer before booking their wedding, and they will receive a special resort

credit. This package provides engaged couples with afour-night stay including wine tastings, a meet-and-great

with the chef, cake tastings, scouting the resort for theperfect ceremony location, and getting to know the staff.

Say Yes Before I Dooffers a destination wedding booking bonus

of $1,000 resort credit

WINDJAMMER LANDING

[email protected] facebook.com/windjammerlanding @windjammerstlSomething Old Wedding Package -One of our four diverse wedding options, the Something Old package is perfect for couples who wish to surround themselves with warm, blue waters, tropical lushness, and no distractions. It's ideal for those preferring to escape the demands of planning a traditional wedding or simply for couples looking to quietly exchange their vows. Regardless, our wedding coordinators vow to make your intimate ceremony a beautiful and unforgettable one. Call 0808 101 7261US $999.00 + 18% service & tax

northern bride winter 2013

Documents

wonderful hotel

w e d d i n g s

denise russellgroup

north westw w w

optionsfree copy winter

pages of northern

country garden theme

company adverti sing