Tabla de contenidos para October 2015 en Perfect Wedding

It ’s time to parrrrttaaaay! When it comes down to it, once you’ve looked past the incredible amount of bits and pieces, gowns and flowers, shoes and jewellery, a wedding really is just a big, fun, happy party with the people in the world you care most about. Sounds fabulous, ’eh? At Perfect Wedding we’re all about a celebration – ideally filled with laughter, love and a proper dance! So this issue we’ve got expert advice on how to make your day the party of the year (p56), gorgeous dresses to suit your party style (p75), beautiful details you can make for your big day (p203), plus the very best entertainment trends you may not have considered (p191) but are guaranteed to impress! Party on! Out & about... We... adored…

What a bright idea! Your magazine is such an inspiration to me! Every time I pick it up, I get more and more excited for my big day (which is in Eynsham Hall, next August). I love the fact that you include lots of real-life weddings, as it’s great to see how other people have styled their day. I get so many of my ideas from your magazine, so I just wanted to say a little thank you! Fiona Gullen, by email Do you think your husband-to-be would be able to choose your dream dress? Not for one minute! Even I’ve gone for something completely different to what I originally wanted. Just two weeks to go until the big day! Alice Durgan No. Period. Wendy Gilbert I don’t even know…

BYGONE STYLE The new vintage-inspired jewellery collection from Jon Richard is the easiest way to work a ‘priceless heirloom’ look on a budget. We love! All at out the lace Elegantly relaxed silhouettes combine with the most beautiful lace, to create LM by Lusan Mandongus’ 2015 collection. Chic embellished belts and romantic tulle up the wow-factor, making these dreamy gowns true bridal classics. lmlusanmandongus.com Sparkly shoes always get a thumbs up from us and these high-street beauties are a total steal. GLAM GIRL Bring the drama, in a knockout statement gown from Madeline Gardner New York. The 2016 collection is packed with princess-worthy full skirts and dazzling beading. madelinegardner newyork.com The perfect finishing touch There’s just something about a veil that pulls a bride’s look together – what can we say,…

WHAT’S LIFE LIKE AT IVORY & CO.? My day starts early at our headquarters. I like to get in before the office gets busy to answer emails and clear some of my workload before things get hectic. If it’s the time of the year for designing our new collection, I can be found sketching and working on new designs. Later in the day, I might be in a bespoke appointment with a bride or working on one of our many projects. It’s busy, but I love it! BEST THING ABOUT YOUR JOB? Getting to meet so many different brides and helping them with their vision for their big day. I get to leave the office at night knowing that I’ve helped to make brides feel happy and confident for their…

Bijoutique at Botleys Mansion A luxury and exclusive boutique set in glorious Surrey parkland offers the latest collections from world-leading designers. A unique and unforgettable experience for the discerning bride. By appointment. Designers Eliza Jane Howell, So Sassi, MiaMia, Caroline Castigliano, Amanda Wakeley, Augusta Jones, Lillian West, Rembo Styling, Jasmine Couture, Marylise Details Botleys Mansion, Stonehill road, Chertsey, Surrey KT16 0AP 0800 130 3119 bespokebybijou.co.uk Creatiques Bridal Boutique Multi award winning Creatiques Bridal Boutique is based in the heart of Southsea, Hampshire. With over 25 years in the industry the Creatiques team have an eye for detail and offer a personal one to one service to help brides find the perfect gown. Designers House of Mooshki, Justin Alexander, Maggie Sottero, Lillian West, Enzoani Mark Lesley, Sincerity Details 151 Albert Road,…

18 MONTHS Announce your engagement! Talk with your fiancé about the kind of day you’d like Choose the type of ceremony you’d like Set your wedding budget (and start saving!) Look at venue ideas Set a goal and make a start on your fitness and diet plan 12 MONTHS Start thinking about dates Choose bridesmaids and then ask them Compile a guest list Arrange the wedding licence with the registrar Book the registrar and the time of the ceremony Start a scrapbook Book a photographer Start looking for your wedding dress 9 MONTHS Visit possible venues and then book your date! Book the caterer Order your dress Book the florist Order your cake Buy your stationery 6 MONTHS Book transport Choose your bridesmaid dresses and accessories Choose groomsmen’s outfits and…

…VENUE Are you available on our date? Are you licensed for civil ceremonies? How many guests can we have to each part of our day? Exactly what’s in our package? What’s the cancellation policy? Will we have exclusive use? Is there guest accommodation, and is it discounted? Do you have mandatory suppliers? …CATERERS Do you provide glassware, crockery and silverwear? Is there an extra cost for serving staff? Do you have a separate menu for photographers/suppliers? How many weddings are you catering for on the day? Have you worked here before? Will you handle the table names and place setting? Can we have a menu tasting? Can you cater for vegetarians/ guests with food allergies? … BOUTIQUE Will I need to book an appointment? How long is the appointment? Who…

“Ed and I loved the idea of getting married on his parents’ farm in Devon and at the cathedral in Exeter where Ed went to school. Since I’m Russian and he’s English, we wanted to blend the two cultures while making the most of the beautiful setting. Our orange and navy colour scheme was inspired by our autumn date, and a family friend, Susie, did a great job of our gorgeous flowers. Our centrepieces were Russian Samovars, some from eBay and some brought over from Russia. As well as meat and fish cooked in firepits there were quite a few Russian touches, with the food (Borscht shots, beetroot cured salmon and rye bread), wedding bread (karavai) and vodka toasts. It’s difficult to pick just one highlight from the day, but…

Create a cosy feel for your autumnal wedding, with a nod to all that’s great about the British countryside. Here, tweed, faux fur, feathers and hedgerow foliage are given a wedding-worthy makeover by mixing with a rich colour palette of purple and plum shades. “We focussed on combining different textures and autumn colours,” explains Hannah Paine, the stylist for this shoot. “Lots of twinkly candles in distressed gold tealight holders helped to create a warm, romantic atmosphere.” CONTRIBUTORS Photographer Ginny Marsh Photography (ginnymarsh.co.uk) Flowers and Styling Hannah Paine at Hannah Berry Flowers (hannahberryflowers.co.uk) Planning Lyn Sanders at Lily-Marie (lily-marie.co.uk) Props Bowtop Vintage (bowtopvintage.co.uk) Dress Maggie Sottero at Amaryllis Bridalwear (amaryllis-bridal.co.uk) Shoes Rainbow Club (rainbowclub.co.uk) from Amaryllis Bridalwear Faux fur Lily-Marie (lily-marie.co.uk) Hats Beverley Edmondson Millinery (beverleyedmondson.co.uk) Cake Debs Makes Cakes…

Daytime guest capacity Evening guest capacity Meal cost per head Allows outside caterers WATERSIDE WONDER Set amongst gorgeous grounds with a luscious waterside setting, Moddershall Oaks is the perfect countryside venue for your day. You can even opt for an outdoor wedding next to their private lake, surrounded by peaceful woodlands. Bliss. moddershalloaks.com CORNISH DREAM Just a short stroll from some of the UK’s finest beaches, the four-star Atlantic Hotel offers stunning coastal views, a marbled entrance, beautiful original chandeliers and a sun-trap pool. Guaranteed to create a glamorous and elegant setting for your big day – they even roll out a red carpet! atlantichotelnewquay.co.uk GORGE VIEW Celebrate your W-day at the Avon Gorge Hotel in Bristol, with the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge as your backdrop. With stunning views of…

“Gorgeous, natural waves in no time at all. This is what you call a life-saver!” CLEMMIE MILLBANK, DIGITAL EDITOR EASY WRAP WAND, VIDAL SASSOON £29.99 “What a revolution! This easy-to-use blender helped me to achieve a totally flawless finish” ANGELA MUSTY, ART ASSISTANT BEAUTYBLENDER ORIGINAL, BEAUTYBLENDER £16 “This subtle but chic mink shade is a great alternative to a French mani” SARAH DAWSON, DEPUTY EDITOR ALL IN ONE NAIL VARNISH IN MINK, AUTOGRAPH £6 “Hello dream foundation! My glowing skin has never received so many compliments” COLETTE EARLEY, ACTING PRODUCTION EDITOR CELLTEINT IN OPAL, CELLCOSMET £150 “This is one sexy scent! The rich, musky tones make it perfect for wearing in the evening” SARAH MALONE, DEPUTY ART EDITOR ALAÏA PARIS EDP, ALAÏA PARIS £42 “The tiny beads buffed my skin…

Laura says “At first I wasn’t sure if this would work, but I was willing to give it a go. My skin has always been a bit spotty, and I was looking for beautiful clear skin on my wedding day. The liquid is refreshing, so taking it every morning was no problem, and easily fitted into my breakfast routine. “At first I noticed my skin get worse – Skinade was obviously clearing out my system to make way for new, brighter skin. After about two weeks, my skin cleared and I started to notice it feeling soft, fresh and and less oily. After the three weeks, my skin looked great, and I was starting to get compliments from other people! “Finally my wedding day came, and my skin felt and…

EXERCISE OF THE MONTH SIDE CURTSY WITH CURL STAND WITH FEET APART, HOLDING A WEIGHT IN EACH HAND. LUNGE YOUR LEFT LEG BACKWARDS AND TO THE RIGHT AS YOU CURL THE WEIGHTS UP TO YOUR SHOULDERS. Move over cereal, there’s a new breakfast trend taking the world by storm. Smoothie bowls are a great way of packing in your five-a-day. Simply blend half of your ingredients, and mix the rest straight into the bowl. Trim down If you’re struggling with hunger cravings in the lead up to the big day, then grab a Fit & Trim bar. Specifically developed to curb hunger pangs, these will help you reach your body and health goals! We’re big fans of the Double Chocolate flavour! Enter code 'PWFREE' at fitandtrimbar.co.uk for your free trial DANCING…

The Maldives has been on my ultimate holiday destination list for pretty much ever . There’s something about the see-through waters, white sand and palm-fringed beaches that keeps me daydreaming of these islands. This year, that dream came true, as I headed to Baros Maldives with my husband for, hands-down, the most incredible holiday of my life. As our plane came in to land in Malé, the capital island of the Maldives, we got our first glimpse of the turquoise waters and atolls that make up this tropical paradise. Cue much excitement and hushed “OMG I can’t believe this is happening” squeals. Our Baros experience began the moment we were greeted at the airport and whisked off to the island by speedboat transfer. That’s right – speedboat transfer. So cool.…

THE PRETTY IN PRINT COMPANY Wow your guests with beautiful wedding stationery that oozes quality at the touch, while you enjoy a personal service and affordable prices. Choose from a range of gorgeous designs and matching items. 01384 590055 sally@theprettyinprintcompany.co.uk  theprettyinprintcompany.co.uk BEST DAY EVER Get your guests excited with this wonderfully pretty wedding stationery from Best Day Ever. From save the dates to thank you cards, your best day ever is covered! Visit the website and quote ‘Perfect Wedding’ for a free sample. facebook.com/bestdayeveruk  rsvp@bestdayeveruk.com bestdayeveruk.com KNOTS & KISSES WEDDING STATIONERY Creating fun, colourful and pretty wedding invitations, as well as matching reception stationery with lots of floral elements, quirky prints and hand embellishments. 07976 625201 info@knotsandkisses.co.uk  knotsandkisses.co.uk ALL THE LITTLE DETAILS All the Little Details create…

EventCity, Manchester 26-27TH SEPTEMBER & ExCeL, London3-4TH OCTOBER 1 Eight stunning CATWALK SHOWS across the two days bring beautiful big day fashion looks to life. After the catwalk show, stop by The Essential Bridalwear Collection to try your favourites from all of the top boutiques and designers. 2 A live ENTERTAINMENT STAGE where you can check out all the best wedding bands and amazing entertainers in action. 3 A stylish CHAMPAGNE BAR to chill out and reflect on the day’s inspiration with your friends and family. 4 The London show’s CREATIVE BRIDES CRAFT CORNER will turn you into a DIY wedding expert in no time, while the VINTAGE VILLAGE at the Manchester show will inspire your inner vintage stylista! 5 For those looking for an extra-special day out with the…

SNEAK PEEK BEHIND THE SCENES “Delicate, pretty jewellary works with great with this look” Stylist CHARLOTTE ELLIS “This stunning lace dress by Allure bridals is one of my favourites of the season. Not only is it timeless, but it’s so unbelievably current. It’s guaranteed to ensure you feel smoking-hot and beautiful on your special day. What more could you ask for? Perfect this dream dress with a show-stopping Joanne Truby bouquet and matching fresh hair garland. I’m in love with this look.” Make-up NIGEL BARNES “This sunkissed complexion, teamed with a contoured eye and nude lip, works for everyone – and can be adapted for all skin tones! Use the contour kit to shape and contour your cheeks, add a soft sweep of blush and finish with a long-lasting lipstick!”…

NEWS * FASHION * TRENDS * BUYS * CELEBS * BEAUTY Uniquely YOURS For a truly individual save the date, we love the idea of having your own bespoke, hand painted couple’s portrait. Just. Too. Cute! From hollyhocklane.co.uk In with the In crowd Israeli designers continue to take the bridal world by storm, and our latest label crush is Zahavit Tshuba. Bold, fashion-forward designs, with more than a hint of sexiness; these gowns are the ultimate way to make a style statement on your big day. Think plunging necklines and foxy silhouettes. Visit lestroissoeurs.co.uk SECRET GARDEN Looking for a wedding dress that packs a fashion punch? Then channel your inner flower child in a dramatic floral gown. Whether you opt for an all-over print or appliqué design, you’re sure to…

Stephanie allin INSPIRATION: I have always been inspired by my brides. I design for the real woman and love meeting brides-to-be and finding out what they really want for their big day. STYLE ICONS: Grace Kelly, Rita Hayworth, Audrey Hepburn, Ginger Rogers, Greta Garbo. DRESS FEATURED: Anna Over Dress, £POA Web site stephanieallin.net Ruth milliam INSPIRATION: Working with fabrics, laces, beads and crystals inspires me everyday. The intricate forms in nature, from feathers to flowers, also inspires the elaborate embellishments in my collections. STYLE ICONS: Twenties and Thirties starlets of Hollywood film . DRESS FEATURED: Evangeline, £3,335 Cici feather gilet, £425 Anna headdress, £650 Web site ruthmilliam.com Chanticeer INSPIRATION: I’m inspired by everyday real women – their soft femininity, their perfect imperfections and their graceful attitudes. My collection encapsulates the…

CONTACT: CHANTICLEERBRIDES.CO.UK…

The first thing to do is sit down with your fiancé and talk openly about the kind of day you want. The main ceremony options are: 1 CHURCH OF ENGLAND You may have to attend a number of Sunday services beforehand. The marriage can be authorised by calling banns on three consecutive Sundays three months before the day, or by obtaining a common licence. Church fees are from £415, with extra costs for choir, organ, etc. In Scotland, banns aren’t necessary, but 15 days’ notice must be given at a register office. 2 ROMAN CATHOLIC Take your baptism and confirmation certificates to your priest at least six months before — if one of you is unbaptised then the priest needs to give permission. You may have to attend marriage preparation…

“Lots of our wedding guests were coming to celebrate with us from abroad, so we loved the idea of a London venue on the water that would allow them to really experience London by day and night. Our luxury yacht setting, Silver Barracuda, had a classic Art Deco feel, while the sound system and dance floor made it ideal for a party! We carried the Art Deco theme through to our hand-tailored Alexandra Wood wedding suits, Edwardian-inspired flowers, vintage-look stationery and beautiful wedding cake. All these little touches really pulled the look of the day together. We loved absolutely everything about our wedding day, and the whole experience was magical. Signing the register and hearing our marriage announced in front of 60 of our closest family and friends was an…

“I wanted the biggest bouquet possible – my arm was aching most of the day from holding it!” “Nik and I planned our wedding in just nine weeks, and were lucky enough to have our dream venue, Bradbourne House, on our doorstep. It was just two miles from home, and the gorgeous duck egg blue reception room was perfect for our vintage birdcage theme. The colour scheme was nudes and light pinks – subtle but beautiful. We carried it through to the flowers, the bridesmaids’ dresses and table decorations. To add some personal touches we had the Singing Waiters, who got everyone singing and dancing. We also had a sketch artist and a Beyoncé and Whitney tribute act! The moment I’ll always remember is Nik looking so emotional as I…

Say ‘cheers’! WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS... Make lemonade! A cute lemonade booth is a fun budget option, and makes a cool backdrop for your pics. Pick up a drinks dispenser from Becky Broome at Not On The High Street (£40). Retro games FAIRGROUND FEELING Get creative with a kids’ paddling pool and some rubber duckies to make your own Hook a Duck booth – guests will love having a try during your drinks reception. THE NEW DISCO SILENT STYLE Want to keep your guests entertained after your band stops playing? Hire a silent disco and enjoy watching everybody grooving in complete silence – it’s a great option if your venue needs you to turn the music off early. ( silentnoizeevents.com ). Get creative MAKE A TATTOO STATION Cute temporary…

NOBU BERKELEY ST, LONDON The critically acclaimed Nobu is one of London’s most fashionable restaurants, and now holds a licence for weddings! noburestaurants.com YORK AND ALBANY, LONDON This prestigious Gordon Ramsay owned restaurant is a sure-fire way to your guests’ hearts. gordonramsay.com/yorkandalbany FIFTEEN, CORNWALL Overlooking Watergate Bay, Jamie Oliver’s restaurant can provide delicious Italian cuisine for you and your guests. fifteencornwall.co.uk THE TERRACE, HAMPSHIRE Featuring a mouth-watering modern menu based on local produce, this Michelin-star restaurant is perfect for a foodie couple. montaguarmshotel.co.uk/ terrace_restaurant RIVER COTTAGE, DORSET You’ve seen it on your screens, and now you can spend your special day sampling the dishes! rivercottage.net GALVIN LA CHAPELLE, LONDON The Michelin-starred French restaurant has been lauded as one of London’s most awe-inspiring locations. Perfect for you gastronomy lovers. galvinrestaurants.com…

THE PANEL WE TEST HAIR MASKS DEPUTY EDITOR Sarah Dawson “I dye my hair on a regular basis so it could do with a bit of TLC” READER Sarah Ward “All I can say is bring on the super-shiny, healthy-looking locks!” ELASTICIZER, PHILIP KINGSLEY £29 Sarah D says “This has truly transformed my hair! A little goes a really long way and it smells so good!” Sarah W says “My hair was much softer after a few days so I could see it making a real difference if used long-term.” DAMAGE REVERSE RESTORATIVE HAIR TREATMENT, OJON £34.50 Sarah D says “Applying the mask took a little bit of time and effort but it’s really moisturising – making it great for a monthly treat for brides with very dry hair.” Sarah…

UNSTRUCTURED UPDO 1 Start with UNITE Expanda Volume mousse or UNITE Beach Day salt spray, to create volume at the roots and a slightly lived-in feel. Then, take a small flat iron and create a bend as close to the root as you can get it. 2 Spritz UNITE Texturiza Spray through the hair and, without using a brush, pull the hair back into a messy ponytail at mid-nape. Secure 2/3 of the way down with a clear elastic band. 3 Twist the ponytail into a messy bun, then pin the loose ends randomly over the bun to diffuse the shape and create an effortless looking chignon. 4 Fix your hair accessory in place, then pull the hair from the front up and away to give added volume and texture.…

SCORPIO OCT 23–NOV 22 Your mood lifts enormously as Saturn leaves your sign mid-month. With strong willpower and excellent motivation, you'll see some good results from your health and fitness regime by the month’s end. SAGITTARIUS NOV 23–DEC 21 Your mind is on your future this month. In addition to your planning, you’re also focusing on your career. The new moon mid-month brings some great work news. The Aries full moon at the end of the month brings joy and playtime too. CAPRICORN DEC 22–JAN 19 This is a family focused month, and you’ll get great pleasure from involving your family-to-be in your wedding planning – and they’ll love you for it! The final week of the month is a special time for travel and with Mars involved, a passionate…

ACCESSORIES Accessorize accessorize.com Aldo aldoshoes.com ASOS asos.com Aye Do Weddings ayedoweddings.co.uk Beaverbrooks beaverbrooks.co.uk Ben Sherman bensherman.com BHLDN bhldn.com Boohoo boohoo.com Cadenzza cadenzza.co.uk Charlotte Valkeniers charlottevalkeniers.com Chez Bec chezbec.com Chupi chupi.ie Claire’s Accessories claires.co.uk Crystal Bridal Accessories crystalbridalaccessories.co.uk Dorothy Perkins dorothyperkins.com Dune dunelondon.com Emmy London emmyshoes.co.uk Etsy etsy.com/uk Feather & Stone featherandstone.com Freya Rose freyarose.com Fumbalinas fumbalinas.co.uk Gemporia gemporia.com Grenson grenson.co.uk H&M hm.com Hermione Harbutt hermioneharbutt.com House of Fraser houseoffraser.co.uk Hoxton London hoxton-london.com Jon Richard jonrichard.com KJ Beckett kjbeckett.com Laura Gravestock lauragravestock.com Liberty in Love libertyinlove.co.uk Manolo Blahnik manoloblahnik.com Marks & Spencer marksandspencer.com Mr Porter mrporter.com Next next.co.uk Olivier Laudus olivierlaudus.com Ray-Ban ray-ban.com/uk Rock N Rose rocknrose.co.uk River Island riverisland.com The Diamond Store thediamondstore.co.uk Thomas Pink thomaspink.com T.M.Lewin tmlewin.co.uk Topshop topshop.com Turnbull & Asser turnbullandasser.co.uk Whistles whistles.com White Stuff whitestuff.com BEAUTY…

TOP TABLE DESIGN & STATIONERY Designers of unique and stylish wedding stationery. From rustic invites to elegant table plans, they will work with you to create the perfect look for your day. 07725 913182 | toptabledesign.co.uk becky@toptabledesign.co.uk WHIPPY WEDDINGS Creating stationery for people who are totally awesome and in need of mind-blowingly spectacular wedding invitations (and more). whippy-weddings.co.uk hello@whippy-weddings.co.uk KRISTINA GASPERAS MAKE-UP A national award-winner in bridal make-up artistry, providing wedding make-up and private bridal makeup lessons of the highest quality. 07931 041395 | kristinagasperas.com k.gasperas@gmail.com THE LITTLE ENGLISH WEDDING CO. High-quality replica Royal Mail postboxes that look stunning in any wedding setting. Available in a range of beautiful colours to suit your wedding theme. 07970 014131 | littleenglishwedding.co.uk hello@littleenglishwedding.co.uk MOGGY BLOOMS Moggy Blooms provide beautiful flowers for your big…

SARAH BUSSEY Who? As Ivory & Co.’s Head Designer, Sarah knows her bridalwear. Every bride should: “Enjoy their wedding day – it’s over so quickly, so make sure you take it all in!” Find out more about Sarah and Ivory & Co. in our interview on p84. HAYLEY SCOTT Who? Creative Stylist and Head Of Education at seanhanna Salons. The most requested wedding hair of 2015 so far? “Braiding has been huge this year, alongside waves with playful and whimsical textures. Overall, I think brides have been opting for a more natural, almost effortless look.” Hayley shares more of her hair knowledge on p139. HANNAH PAINE Who? Owner of bespoke flower and wedding styling company Hannah Berry Flowers. Says her favourite wedding flowers are peonies: “They’re so voluptuous and sweetly…

A-LIST ELEGANCE TURN THE AISLE INTO YOUR RED CARPET IN A SUPER-STYLISH, FIGURE-FLATTERING GOWN FESTIVAL ROCK CHICK LAID-BACK LACE AND OFF-THE-SHOULDER BOHO STYLES ARE THE COOL WAY TO NAIL THIS VIBE MEGAWATT GLAMOUR GET READY TO SPARKLE IN HEAD-TO-TOE GLITZ AND KNOCK ‘EM DEAD SILHOUETTES DANCE FLOOR DISCO DIVA SHORT, MODERN AND VERY FUN, THIS IS THE WAY TO SHOW OFF YOUR DANCING SHOES!…

FROUFROU BRIDAL BOUTIQUE KENT OWNERS: Helena Truett & Nicole Stillman THE BOUTIQUE: Froufrou is small and independent with impeccable customer service and an emporium of wonderful luxury dresses. You are certain to find the dress you have been dreaming of! STOCKING: Stewart Parvin, Charlie Brear, Sarah Seven, Elizabeth Stuart, Raimon Bundó. Website froufroubride.co.uk THE SECRET DRESS HOUSE SURREY OWNER: Kelly Harvey-Welsh THE BOUTIQUE: If you’re looking for the wow factor on your wedding day, a visit to The Secret Dress House in Surrey is a must. You’re sure to leave with that knock-out gown for your big day! STOCKING: Charlie Brear, Eliza Jane Howell, Elizabeth Stuart, Maria Senvo. Website secretdresshouse.co.uk BRIDES OF WINCHESTER WINCHESTER OWNER: Laura Ward THE BOUTIQUE: All dresses are traditionally handcrafted in the UK using the highest…

CONTACT: HALFPENNYLONDON.COM…

1. CREATIQUES Hampshire Creatiques is a multi award-winning bridal boutique in the heart of Southsea, offering a unique bridal experience. It provides a one-to-one service by appointment only with one of its expert bridal professionals. In this luxurious boutique you’ll find a beautiful selection of designer gowns, suitable for a range of styles and budgets. From walking into the boutique to walking down the aisle, the team will cater to your every need, ensuring that you look and feel like the bride you’ve always dreamt of. Contact: 02392 826622 couture@creatiques.co.uk creatiques.co.uk 2. THE HARROGATE WEDDING LOUNGE North Yorkshire The Harrogate Wedding Lounge is a luxury bridal shopping experience, offering first-class service. The boutique stocks gowns from some of the world’s leading bridal designers, as well as fabulous accessories to complete…

OUR EXPERTS REBECCA SMITH Not On The High Street’s Senior Category Manager, Rebecca, knows the hottest products on the market right now! HAYLEY SCOTT As a Creative Stylist and Head of Education at seanhanna Salons, Hayley can tackle all your hair dilemmas. KELLY COURT As the Wedding Executive at Worsley Park Marriott Hotel & Club, Kelly can answer all your tricky W-day questions. NICOLA SIMMONS Get your skin photo-ready with Nicola’s advice. She’s the Skincare Expert at Phytomer and knows all the insider tricks! HAIR Q I’m a natural brunette and I fancy a subtle change for my wedding (which is a year away). What do you suggest? Rosie, 33 HAYLEY: How about balayage highlights? Balayage is a traditional freehand technique that has made a huge comeback lately.…

Q What is the difference between civil partnership and marriage? A: Apart from the wording and process of the actual ceremonies, the main differences come down to legalities. For example, civil partners do not have the same pension rights as married couples. Visit gov.uk for a detailed guide to the comparisons. Q Can I convert my civil partnership to a marriage? A: Yes – you can visit your local register office for a straightforward conversion or have a ceremony at an approved venue with a registrar. You’ll both need to be present and bring proof of ID and of your civil partnership – you’ll then be issued with a marriage certificate. For more info, visit thegayweddingguide.co.uk Q Can same-sex couples have a church wedding? A: Yes, but only if the…

“Phil and I always knew that if we got married it needed to be very personal to us – we wanted people to have fun and to remember our day. We first met on a geology field trip at university. At the time, I wanted to be a palaeontologist, so we reflected this by having a dinosaur wedding! We still wanted our day to be classy and elegant so we chose a blush pink and gold colour scheme. Each table had a large gold dinosaur for the table name, then each setting had a smaller gold dinosaur with the guest’s name. The most romantic part of the day was the few minutes we spent together before the ceremony. I knew Phil would be nervous and I wanted to see his…

Think about the dress “If your dress is embellished, a chic, but uncomplicated look such as a classic chignon will compliment without competing. Whereas if your dress is plain you can choose a more involved hair look, such as a braid.” Whatever the weather “If you’re indoors all day, you can be pretty confident your hair will stay in place, but if you’re spending a lot of time outside, opt for a less structured style which can stand up to moving around a little more.” Be camera-ready “Hairspray can create shine and even glare in outdoor photos. A matte finish with texture tends to be better suited to photos outside in bright sunlight.” In case of emergency... “Make sure your bridesmaids carry an emergency hair kit for you. Include a…