Innholdsfortegnelse for February/March 2019 i You and Your Wedding

This issue of You & Your Wedding hits the shelves on 27 December – and, for many of you, this will EH› \RXU› ÀUVW› ZHGGLQJ› PDJD]LQH› SXUFKDVH›› 6R›› congratulations, welcome, and get ready for the WLPH›RI›\RXU›OLIH››:H·UH›KHUH›WR›KHOS›\RX›SODQ››RUJDQLVH›› FKRRVH››DQG›EXGJHW››:H›ZDQW›WR›LQVSLUH››DGYLVH›DQG›WDNH› \RX›WKURXJK›HYHU\›VWDJH›RI›H[FLWHPHQW›IRU›\RXU›ELJ›GD\›› And it will EH›DQ›DPD]LQJ›GD\››<RX·UH›PDUU\LQJ›WKH›ORYH› of your life after all! Whether it’s a tiny wedding with a small budget, or a huge guest list with big costs involved, as long as you›ORYH›\RXU›GD\››WKDW·V›UHDOO\›DOO›WKDW›PDWWHUV›› 5HDGHUV› RIWHQ› DVN› XV› ZKDW› WKH\› VKRXOG› GR› ÀUVW› DIWHU›JHWWLQJ›HQJDJHG››,›ZRXOG›VD\«›UHOD[››(QMR\›WKH› KDSSLQHVV›HYHU\RQH›ZLOO›KDYH›IRU›WKH›WZR›RI›\RX››*LYH› LW› D› FRXSOH› RI› ZHHNV› DQG› WKHQ› VWDUW› WR› WKLQN› DERXW› WKH› SODQQLQJ›› ,·G› DGYLVH› \RX› WR› GUDZ› XS› D› JXHVW› OLVW›› ZKHUH› \RX·G› OLNH›WR›PDUU\››ZKHQ›\RX·G›OLNH›WR›GR›LW›DQG›ZKDW›EXGJHW›\RX›KDYH›› 1H[W›› LW·V› WLPH› WR› VWDUW› WKLQNLQJ› DERXW› the dress›› 0DQ\› JLUOV› GRQ·W› UHDOLVH›KRZ›ORQJ›LW›FDQ›WDNH›WR›FKRRVH›WKH›SHUIHFW›JRZQ››DQG›WKHQ› WKH› WLPH› LW› PLJKW› WDNH› IRU› LW› WR› DUULYH› EDFN› DW› WKH›…

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Float AWAY For an effortlessly elegant bridal style, choose a statement skirt in silk and tulle Pretty PETALS Remember, flowers aren’t just for your bouquet. Adorn your gown with beautiful blooms for a truly romantic look Time to DAZZLE Ooze modern glamour with a glittering gown that will keep you shining from day to night Bold BALLGOWNS From chic crepe dresses to delightful lace gowns – this classic silhouette will never go out of style…

Photography taylorandporter.co.uk Styling sundariferris.co.uk Venue haleshall.com Floral design joflowers.co.uk Catering nwbdhospitality.co.uk Stationery estherclark.co Glassware royaldoulton.co.uk Linen 88events.com Hair & make-up emmajanewalsh.com Bridal jewellery zoeandmorgan.com Bridal attire cocoandkate.co.uk Beeswax candles wealdstore.com Cutlery helenemillot.com Crockery sue-parkinson.com Hand-dyed runners & ribbons lancasterandcornish.com Bridal shoes bellabelleshoes.com Groom’s attire stubbings-andtaylor.co.uk Cake design littlemillies.com Lighting installation dreamwaveevents.co.uk Shoot assistants floandfox.co.uk; emilyandrewevents.co.uk…

Concept, planning, styling & cakes elizabethscakeemporium.com Photography sanshinephotography.com Planning & styling thenewwonderful.com Flowers amieboneflowers.com Hair, make-up, gold headpiece & lace veil botias.co.uk Stationery judybroadcalligraphy.co.uk Pale gold lace dress Yolancris at thewedding-club.co.uk Gold ruffle dress, veil & head dress ruthmilliam.com Shoes dolcegabbana.com Gold candlesticks & chairs greathire.com Tables joneshire.co.uk Custom monogram chairs couturechairs.com China, crockery & glassware options-hire.co.uk Table cloth overthetoprentals.co.uk Books, scroll holder, ink stand & writing desk farley.co.uk…

Consider hiring a stylist to do the hard work for you. They can be as hands-on as you like – creating the whole look from scratch, simply suggesting suppliers or just lending a hand on the day itself. Enrol on a styling course to learn the tricks of the trade. Elle runs a How To Style Your Wedding masterclass, as well as a virtual stylist service at theartfuleventco.com. Take the time and effort out of sourcing everything from lights and signs to drinks stations and flower walls by using prop hire companies. Ask your venue what it has on-site already for you to use – it may have a selection of tablecloths, cutlery, glassware and flower vases and often the wedding co-ordinator is happy to have a hand in the…

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SO HOT! SPRAY-ON GARNISHES Considering a DIY drinks station, where guests can customise their cocktails? Smith & Sinclair’s new edible fragrances are a must-have. PLANT-BASED WEDDINGS Eco boutique The Green House Hotel has launched an all-vegan package, covering everything from the food to advice on vegan-friendly dress and shoe suppliers. BALLOONS Still huge in terms of wedding décor. For a new take on the trend, we love these LED wall decorations, £28, Nordic House. SO NOT! BAILEYS We’re converts to Hotel Chocolat’s divine vodka-based chocolate cream liqueur now – lovely for a wintery hen party. INVITES ON CARD This year, we’ll see a rise in wedding stationery on nontraditional materials, such as wood or agate, predicts Vaishali Shah of luxe stationer Ananya. Can’t wait for this! IN-LAWS, IT SEEMS Ninety…

Are you and your partner dreaming of a sun-kissed celebration to seal your love for one another? If so, let Sandals Resorts help you bring it to life at one of its stunning Caribbean destinations. With truly breathtaking resorts in Saint Lucia, Jamaica, Antigua, the Bahamas, Grenada and Barbados, set among totally gorgeous tropical settings and on some of the world’s most magical and exquisite beaches, you really will be spoilt for choice. Even better, with Sandals Luxury Included® Resorts you can afford to say “yes” to total luxury, as so much is included and unlimited as part of your stay. Couples are treated to decadent rooms, spa baths and ultra-romantic Love Nest Butler Suites® , as well as ÀYH›VWDU›*OREDO›*RXUPHW™ dining at a wide range of speciality restaurants, free beers,…

THIS ISSUE: Would your guests be happy to stick to a dress code on your big day? NO! SARAH ALLARD, EDITOR AT HITCHED.CO.UK, SAYS: “Anyone who’s been to a wedding (so that’s most of us) will know just how expensive attending someone else’s big day can be. First, there’s the travel and accommodation. Then there’s the gift. And, of course you may need to buy drinks, too. Oh, and what’s WKDW"›<RX·G›OLNH›PH›WR›VKHOO›RXW›PRUH›FDVK›RQ›DQ›RXWÀW›WKDW›ÀWV› your dress code that I am certain I’ll never wear again? Fantastic. Don’t get me wrong, going to a wedding does usually require D› QHZ› RXWÀW›› VR›› PRUH› RIWHQ› WKDQ› QRW›› \RX·OO› EH› VSHQGLQJ› WKH› money anyway. But if you’re strapped for cash, then the SURPLVH› RI› ÀQGLQJ› DQ› RXWÀW› \RX› FDQ› ZHDU› DJDLQ› LV› VRPHWKLQJ› WR›FOLQJ›RQ›WR›ZKHQ›\RX›ÀQDOO\›SOXFN›XS›WKH›FRXUDJH›WR›FKHFN› your bank…

Farzana Janjua knows a thing or two about what’s hot and what’s not in the world of wedding gift lists. As head buyer for The Wedding Shop, it’s her job to search out an expertly curated selection of fabulous lifestyle products from more than 350 brands for couples preparing to tie the knot. If you’re searching for some gift-list inspiration, Farzana has been busy browsing some sensational brands from TWS, to bring us her edit of the top trends sure to be a big hit with brides and grooms in 2019. Which ones will make it on to your wedding gift list? FLASHBACK TO THE ’80S “Inject some fun into your home with a dash of YLEUDQW›FRORXU››D›KLQW›RI›SOD\IXOQHVV›RU›VRPH›WHUULÀF› tassels. I’m a big fan of bold design so this quirky scalloped-back chair…

With special thanks to Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay.…

We all know the merits of a serious sweat session, from HPRWLRQDO›KHDOWK›EHQHÀWV› to beating lethargy and feeling like the best version of yourself. But hitting the gym hard can wreak havoc on some people’s skin – especially if you’re prone to spots. “Sweat and dirt can clog pores during workouts, leading to congestion, blackheads, whiteheads and breakouts,” explains cosmetic dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams. If your pre-wedding exercise regime is causing your skin to suffer, it can be tempting to abandon your workouts in favour of a clear complexion. However, it is possible to have the body and the skin of your dreams – you just need to tailor your skincare routine to suit your lifestyle. Good clean fun “One of the most important measures to keep your skin looking good.…

Bridal beauty often has a timeless feel; a sophisticated nude lip, say, paired with a subtle smoky eye and glowing skin; a classic red lip with minimal eye make-up. These looks have been seen up and down aisles for many a year, and for good reason – they’re tried and tested styles that will never go out of fashion. With hair and make-up trends moving so fast, who wants to look dated in their wedding SKRWRV›LQ›ÀYH›\HDUV·›WLPH"› However, that’s not to say beauty innovation isn’t relevant to bridal style. It’s all about using the latest developments in techniques and products to give you a subtle, contemporary twist on classic looks, so you feel \RXU›FRQÀGHQW›EHVW›› With 2019 upon us, we spoke to some of our favourite industry insiders about the new takes…

You’ve got : A FORTNIGHT Explore New Zealand’s stunning South Island NHZ =HDODQG LV fiOOHG ZLWK VWDJJHULQJ VFHQHUy ² IURP FLQHPDWLF ZDWHUIDOOV DQG PLUURU-OLNH ODNHV› WR FUyVWDO VDQG EHDFKHV DQG WDQJOHV RI PLVWy UDLQIRUHVW› $QG KRZ EHWWHU WR VHH LW WKDQ IURP D ZRXQG-GRZQ ZLQGRZ" 7KH VWXQQLQJ 6RXWK ,VODQG› ZLWK LWV VWDU-fiOOHG VNLHV DQG YDVW JODFLDO YDOOHyV› LV ULSH IRU H[SORULQJ Ey FDU› $IWHU flyLQJ LQ IURP $XFNODQG› VWDUW DW WKH YHUy WRS RI WKH LVODQG LQ %OHQKHLP ² VXUURXQGHG Ey OXVFLRXV YLQHyDUGV DQG MXVW D VKRUW KRS IURP WKH SLFWXUHVTXH 0DUOERURXJK 6RXQGV ² EHIRUH GULYLQJ WKH WZR KRXUV GRZQ WR .DLNRXUD› )URP yRXU EHDXWLIXO WUHH KRXVH DW +DSXNX /RGJH 7UHH +RXVHV ›D GHVLJQORYHU·V GUHDP›› yRX·OO EH flDQNHG Ey UXJJHG PRXQWDLQ UDQJHV RQ RQH VLGH DQG WKH SRXQGLQJ 3DFLfiF VXUI…

Judging by the popularity of #engagementparty on Instagram, celebrating your ,›ZLOOµ›LV›ÀUPO\›EDFN›RQ›WKH› menu of pre-wedding events. Yes, it might seem a bit much to add a whole other event to your to-do list, in addition to the wedding, and perhaps stag, hen, rehearsal dinner and post-wedding brunch. However, the average time from proposal to aisle is now 20 months* – that’s a long time to wait to celebrate with your loved ones. Plus, even if you’re having a shorter engagement, who needs an excuse for bringing the people you care about together to have a good time? Follow these tips for engagement party perfection... TIMING IS EVERYTHING <RX·OO›ZDQW›WR›ÀQG›WKDW›VZHHW› spot – somewhere after the elated, care-free time when the ULQJ›LV›MXVW›VHWWOLQJ›RQ›\RXU›ÀQJHU›› and before you dive head-long into serious wedmin,” says planner and stylist…

The savvy way to avoid overspending is to set a budget as early as possible – and stick to it. THE FIRST STAGES Before you do anything, work out the total amount you’ve got to play with, including any contributions from family. After that, the simplest method is to allocate a percentage of this total to each area of the wedding. For a rough idea, here’s the average breakdown of the usual big-ticket items* : Food & drink 18% Venue hire ››››››16% Bride’s outfit ›7% Photography 4% Entertainment/music ›3% This is obviously a guideline, not a commandment. Our advice is to work out what’s important, then dial different wedding areas up or down accordingly. For example, if music is a huge part of your lives, you may wish to bump…

♦ Plus-ones For guests who are married or in long-term relationships, their partners should be invited. As for the rest, the key is kindness. If a guest won’t know many people or is travelling a long way, it’s nice to let them bring someone. Worried about an aisle-full of strangers? Have a pre-wedding day dinner to get to know them. ♦ Family & colleagues It’s all about consistency. If you invite some cousins and not others, or choose your favourite colleague over your pal in accounts, you risk hurting feelings. ♦ Children For some, weddings just aren’t right without tiny tots; for others, mini guests are a no-no. What’s more, some venues aren’t friendly for little people. Whatever you decide, make it clear on the invitations. It’s OK to make…

It’s not compulsory to have a bridal party, but getting your nearest and dearest involved can add to the fun factor. Here are the key roles to consider. MAID OF HONOUR Your go-to gal for practical and emotional support. She usually organises the hen party, helps you shop for the dress and co-ordinates the other bridesmaids. You may also ask her to keep an eye on your outfit on the day. If your top pick for this important role is male, no problem – just call him your man of honour. How to choose This should be someone reliable, calm in a crisis and a good listener. BRIDESMAIDS These are the ladies you love spending time with, whether they’re family or friends. In theory, there’s no limit to the number…

♦ BESPOKE Created just for you. ♦ CUSTOMISED An existing design that you can personalise – there are plenty of amazing and inspirational examples to view at hitched.co.uk/stationery ♦ PRINTABLE Often free templates available online. Just download, add names and details, then print. ♦ ENGRAVING Printing that gives raised lettering – classic, but expensive. Thermography gives a similar effect at a lower price point. ♦ LASER CUT A precision technique used to cut out intricate shapes. ♦ LETTERPRESS Letters or patterns are stamped into the card. ♦ FOIL STAMPING Creating a shiny or matte metallic finish.…

GETTING READY ♦ Your dress on the hanger ♦ Your shoes ♦ Your jewellery ♦ Engagement ring and wedding bands ♦ Close-up dress details ♦ You having your make-up applied ♦ Your hair ♦ You and your mum ♦ Dad’s first sight of you ♦ You and your dad ♦ You with both parents ♦ Bridesmaid dresses ♦ Your bouquet ♦ You with your MoH ♦ You with your flower girls ♦ You getting into the car THE CEREMONY ♦ Exterior of venue ♦ Interior of venue ♦ Pew ends ♦ Flower arrangements ♦ Guests arriving ♦ Partner waiting for you ♦ You and your dad arriving at the ceremony ♦ You and your dad walking down the aisle ♦ The moment your partner first sees you ♦ Exchanging vows…

Your cake and flower choices can make a big difference to the look and feel of your day. Here’s how to get them absolutely right. THINK SIZE AND SPACE Subtle floral arrangements in light shades can get lost in a large room. Keep in mind that your tables aren’t the only parts of the venue that will benefit from some flower power: you can use blooms to highlight special features, such as fireplaces or beams. If your cake is to be a focal point, think about where it should be placed, and what colour and height will ensure it stands out. You’ll also need to know the number of guests so you can order the right size. REFLECT ON THE MOOD Blooms in particular can affect the feel of the…

♦ Wine Build your own cellar full of reds and whites to enjoy in years to come. ♦ Subscriptions Some gift list services now give you the option of asking for a monthly or annual subscription for deliveries of such lovely things as flowers and plants. ♦ Baby essentials Wearing a maternity wedding dress? Congrats – and think about setting up a list full of essentials for when the time comes. ♦ Art Cover your walls with original artwork. ♦ Experiences With some providers, you can request all kinds of UK activities, from spa days to surfing lessons. ♦ Unique treats Don’t limit yourself – with Prezola, for example, you can even add vinyl records to your list!…

HELEN GLOVER MBE Olympic rowing champion With two Olympic gold medals and three world titles under her belt, Helen knows better than anyone about working up a sweat. She shares her top beauty buys for perfect post-workout skin on p208. BYLUMIERE Destination wedding photographers Together with her husband Brent, Kate Kirkman captures beautiful moments for couples to treasure as ByLumiere. They photographed Emily and James’ magical celebration on p122. LILIA WEDDELL Model Being transformed into a bride in Bali was a dream day at work for Lilia. “There were so many incredible gowns – it was impossible to choose a favourite!” See our gorgeous shoot on p176. ANNA STARMER Colour consultant Looking for some styling guidance? Meet specialist colour forecaster, Anna, author of Love Colour: Choosing Colours to Live With,…

Florals (PEUDFH flRZHU SRZHU ZLWK SDWWHUQHG OLQHQV› IROLDJH-LQVSLUHG GHVLJQV› DQG EHDXWLIXO EORRPV Stripes *R EULJKW ZLWK VWULSHV DQG RSW IRU D VXQQy yHOORZ SDOHWWH› PL[HG ZLWK SLQN DQG SHDFK Gingham Give this traditional check a cool modernboho twist…

Inspired by a hillside fairy-tale fantasy, Casablanca Bridal’s new collection evokes otherworldly images of leaves rustling in the breeze, ruins covered in greenery, and winding cobbled roads leading to mysterious places. The gorgeous collection is made up of 21 gowns, and each design tells its own wondrous story. From low-plunging necklines and exquisite beading to intricate ODFH›SDWWHUQV›DQG›ÁRZ\›VNLUWV››WKHUH·V›D›GUHVV›WR›VXLW›HYHU\›EULGH›› They will work with every venue, too, whether it’s a castle worthy of the Brothers Grimm or a paradisal beach on a desert island. The Liliana, Clara and Aubrey gowns are beautiful examples. The organza and sequinned tulle Liliana brings bridal fantasies to OLIH›WKDQNV›WR›LWV›EROG›ÁRUDO›ODFH››ZKLFK›GDQFHV›GRZQ›WKH›SOXQJLQJ› neckline. Clara, with its voluminous soft skirt, silver beading and cross back, is a romantic dream, while Aubrey channels glamorous YLQWDJH›VW\OH›WKURXJK›LWV›ÀW›DQG›ÁDUH›VLOKRXHWWH››:LWK›WKHVH› enchanting dresses, a magical big day is guaranteed.…

THE BRIEF MOOD A boho-inspired, festival-style big day, but on a small scale – showing that even an elopement can be a seriously stylish affair. PALETTE Warm hues of rust, burgundy, brown and peach, with hints of pink and green to create an autumnal coastal look. VENUE The private Burgh Island in South Devon is an intimate and hidden gem making it the perfect spot for a secluded ceremony. “Just because it’s only the two of you, doesn’t mean you can’t go all out when it comes to décor” The saying goes that the best things come in small packages and in this romantic elopement shoot, that’s certainly the case. “Just because it’s only the two of you, doesn’t mean you can’t go all out when it comes to décor,”…

“THE SPACE IS SO STUNNING IN ITSELF THAT WE DIDN’T DECORATE IT” THE COUPLE Sarah & Austin Sarah Dahlberg, 24, and Austin Sites, 25, held their ceremony at the Anthony Chapel at Garvan Woodland Gardens and their reception at The Centre at Forest Lakes, Arkansas, USA College sweethearts Sarah and Austin became husband and wife at the same place they got engaged: the idyllic botanic gardens at the University of Arkansas. The day began with the couple meeting privately to exchange love letters, each staying either side of a door so Austin wouldn’t see Sarah’s dress before she took to the aisle. They went on to exchange vows in front of their 200 guests in the unique, OLJKW›ÀOOHG›$QWKRQ\›&KDSHO›› 7KH›VSDFH› is so stunning in itself that we didn’t GHFRUDWH›LW›RU›XVH›ÁRZHUV›µ›VD\V›6DUDK›› The couple…

It’s amazing what strong reactions weddings can provoke. Loved ones hitherto unsuspected of harbouring the slightest interest in fruit cake or white dresses will suddenly declare both to be w-day essentials, once you’re engaged. For whatever reason, some people are very attached to traditions – and that’s all well and good if they’re planning their own; less so if they’re imposing their views on your big day. However, just remember that when it comes to weddings, nowadays, (almost) anything goes. Don’t feel bound by tradition, etiquette or societal expectation – it really doesn’t matter if… WE’VE SEEN EVERYTHING FROM LAID-BACK PUB PARTIES TO A THREE-DAY “WEDFEST” IN A FIELD …YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START As a general rule, weddings used to stick to a formula. Ceremony, drinks reception, sit-down…

Gift dilemma My wedding party are to receive thank-you gifts, and I will present bouquets to my mum and mother-in-law during the speeches. To my horror, my mum has now given me a long list of people she says I also have to present with thank-you bouquets! This includes family members who have only helped with the wedding in tiny ways. I was thinking of giving them a bottle of wine or something before or after the wedding. Am I being ungrateful? Georgie6 Y&YW says: Absolutely not. The cost of thanking a large number of guests with a bouquet would be considerable. It would also make for an incredibly dull section of the speeches, with everyone clapping politely, yet wearily, as guest after guest is presented with flowers. And you…

After all the excitement of that MXVW›HQJDJHG›SHULRG››LW·V›HDV\› for a certain level of panic to set in. Unless you’re planning a totally stripped back celebration – or enjoy unlimited funds – how exactly are \RX›VXSSRVHG›WR›SD\›IRU›D›ZKROH›ZHGGLQJ"› Are date nights a thing of the past as you VFULPS›DQG›VDYH›WR›DIIRUG›D›SKRWRJUDSKHU"› Will you end up having to handmake every single piece of décor at your wedding, HYHQ›WKRXJK›\RX›KDWH›FUDIW"›7KH›JRRG› news is, a few simple lifestyle adjustments can make a huge difference to your outgoings over the course of a year – freeing up more money to put towards your celebration. Of course, you might decide to keep these savings for something else. But if there are certain wedding elements you’d love to have but aren’t FRQÀGHQW›\RX›FDQ›DIIRUG››WKHVH›DUH›WKH› changes you can make to bring these within reach – without putting…

1 OVER-THE-WATER WEDDING CHAPEL Walk on water on your special day at this unique and picturesque venue, featuring panoramic ocean views and a glass aisle. Available at Sandals South Coast and Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica, and Sandals Grande St Lucian in Saint Lucia. 2 OCEANFRONT GAZEBO Nestled among some of the most perfect beaches in the Caribbean, Sandals Resorts’ charming gazebos, complete with vaulted roofs and idyllic ocean views, make a beautiful wedding setting. Available at Sandals Royal Caribbean in Jamaica and other Sandals Resorts. 3 INTIMATE RESORT CHAPEL For a traditional feel, go for this charming, secluded chapel with an elevated altar and wooden pews, reached by a path framed by fountain pools and lush greenery. Available at Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica. 4 GARDEN GAZEBO Exchange your…

THE DRESSES Simple and stylish dresses for brides on a budget THE THEME Relaxed bridal style with a gorgeous poolside backdrop THE ACCESSORIES Chic silver jewellery teamed with romantic, floaty veils SPECIAL THANKS The fashion team stayed and shot on location at Four Seasons Resort Bali At Jimbaran Bay. This five-star resort offers a beautiful private beach and luxurious private villas featuring authentic Balinese décor for you to holiday in style. With dedicated wedding planners, lush gardens and dazzling views, it’s a truly breathtaking location to say your vows, fourseasons.com/jimbaranbay…

LUCY MECKLENBURGH Founder of Results with Lucy LUCY’S ESSENTIALS Coconut Merchant Raw Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, £5.99 for 300ml “After a workout, I like to use a small amount of coconut oil to soften and smooth my skin.” Cowshed Lippy Cow Natural Lip Balm, £6 “If you apply this before working out, it keeps your lips feeling moisturised and soft.” Victoria’s Secret Love Spell Fragrance Mist, £12 “To freshen up, I use this body mist. It has a fruity peach scent and is infused with calming camomile and conditioning aloe vera.” Boots Botanics 100% Organic Rosewater Toning Spritz, £7.99 “I apply two sprays of this before a workout, and two after for revitalised skin.”…

Inject extra moisture into your haircare regime with a luxurious hydrating mask, designed to transform your locks from lacklustre to luscious. Whether you want to try out a purse-friendly product or splash the cash, here are the masks that have earned a place in our bathroom cabinet. SAVE John Frieda Frizz Ease Dream Curls Deep Conditioner, £6.99 Detangle and quench your curls without breaking the bank with this formula that promises improved manageability and shine. Redken All Soft Mega Sheet Hair Mask, £6.50 Sheet masks for skin took the beauty world by storm, and now they’re available for hair, too. This one is designed to nourish and strengthen. Trevor Sorbie Smooth & Hydrate Nourishing Mask, £7.99 Apply this to your hair then luxuriate in a hot bath; the heat from…

Villa Suites at Cap Maison from approx. £563 per night B&B. Wedding packages start at £900; exclusive-use is priced from £16,000 per day, capmaison.com. A seven-night all-inclusive honeymoon in a Junior Suite incl. flights with British Airways, transfers in resort, a complimentary bottle of champagne, one bottle of champagne to enjoy at Rock Maison, and a one-hour massage for the bride at Spa Maison from £3,299pp*, kuoni.co.uk. With thanks to the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority for supporting this trip, stlucia.org. For details of the Rainforest Adventures Adrena-Line Canopy Tour, visit rainforestadventure.com…

Create a bespoke playlist Ditch the dud radio station and keep the spirit of celebration alive by taking your wedding playlist with you on the road. Or create a honeymoon-specific playlist together. Pre-load it on to Spotify before you travel, and be sure to bring a USB adaptor or Bluetooth car transmitter to hook up with the vehicle’s radio system. Pack a picnic Cornish pasties and cheese puffs just aren’t going to cut it for these roadtrips. Many hotels will provide takeaway hampers that you can take on the road. If not, seek out a local deli and stock up on treats before you set off. If you’re feeling really clever, pack a fancy table cloth to spread out alfresco come lunch time. Factor in rest stops When it comes…

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Congratulations on your engagement! Among all the well-wishing, we’re sure you’ve heard “how’s the planning going?” too many times to mention. If you’re starting to feel the panic that comes with wondering how to pull off such a big celebration, then breathe a sigh of relief. Our practical planning guide will hold your hand every step of the way, from working out your budget to compiling your gift list. Talking of gift lists, we’re delighted to be bringing you this guide in association with Prezola, the modern gift list company. Many of our lovely couples have chosen Prezola for one of the most enjoyable aspects of planning, and when you take a look at all the beautiful options on offer, you can see why. So, whether you’ve just got a…

♦ › Venue Make sure you know exactly what the quoted price includes, down to the tiniest detail. Typical “extras” that can unexpectedly bump up your bill include security, cleaning and cloakroom staff. ♦ Suppliers Always check whether their fees include travel expenses and whether you’re expected to feed them. It’s not compulsory, but you may want to give some of them a financial thank you on the day, so do factor in tips. ♦ Photos Album costs and additional prints can increase your post-wedding bill significantly. ♦ Dress If you’re not going to sell your wedding dress afterwards, bear in mind that a specialist cleaning and storage service can be pricey.…

♦ Get creative with your décor Think scented floral arches, petal-strewn aisles and backdrops of streamers. ♦ Have fun with the order of service You can add favourite quotes or short biographies of the bridal party. ♦ Music makes all the difference Celebrate with a much-loved song as you exit. ♦ Don’t forget the lighting Candles give a romantic, intimate feel, while lanterns in different hues add a pop of colour. ♦ Who says you have to have paper confetti? Hand out packets of glitter, rose petals or lavender, bottles of bubbles, ribbon wands or little bells (check the venue is OK with these). ♦ Rethink the set-up We’ve seen stunning ceremonies with guests in a circle around the couple (check with the venue).…

♦ Being a witness This involves signing the register to confirm the legality of your marriage. You need two, and can often have more. ♦ Doing a reading or singing a song Asking someone to read or perform during the ceremony is a lovely way to include them. ♦ MC Announces dinner and the speeches – the perfect role for someone with a big personality. ♦ Someone blue Ask your pals to add a dash of navy or sapphire to their outfits (think tie, jewellery, corsage), so they can be your “something blue”. ♦ However… Don’t ask people to man the guestbook, hand out drinks, take coats – anything that implies unpaid labour. You just have to let guests be guests sometimes.…

…ORDER Allow around six months for a fully bespoke design to avoid checking designs in a rush. For customised, six to eight weeks should do it. It’s one invite per household, not per person. Be smart and order spares – around 5% of the total – in case you have extra guests. …SEND Traditionally, invites go out six to eight weeks before the big day, but we say the earlier, the better. We recommend four months in advance, or even a year if travel is involved. Check postage costs before you start sticking stamps, and include your return address on envelopes so you know if any don’t get delivered. …ASK FOR AN RSVP Find out from your caterer and venue exactly when they’ll need final numbers and set your deadline…

WHAT TEMPTS YOUR TASTE BUDS? The traditional sit-down wedding breakfast is always in style, but if you feel this won’t suit your theme (or budget), there are many mouthwatering alternatives. The ever-popular hog roast is perfect for rustic-luxe parties, while a scattering of food trucks would be ideal for a “wedfest”. A substantial afternoon tea on vintage china, or a picnic served from wicker hampers, has real wow factor for a romantic garden party. If you’re set on seated dining but want to add an element of informality, then consider family-style dining: large platters of food for guests to pass around the table – it’s such a great ice-breaker. WHAT ARE YOUR DRINKS DESIRES? You don’t have to start with champagne – serving your favourite cocktail will add a personal…

Your guests will want to get you gifts as part of the celebration. It’s sensible to set up a gift list (also known as a registry) – and it’s also one of the most pleasurable parts of planning. But what should you ask for? HOMEWARES It’s likely that you already own the essentials – fridge, furniture, and so on. This, therefore, is your chance to upgrade. Got your eye on chef-worthy kitchen knives? Fancy some silky-soft new bed linen? Dreaming of a high-tech coffee machine? Put them on the list. Take your time choosing: these are mementoes of the guests who celebrated your marriage with you. Spread your requests across a wide price range to accommodate guests with different budgets. One way of doing this is opting for sets, such…

After all the months of planning, it’s important to ensure that every carefully chosen element of your day has a moment in the spotlight. It’s a task that’s akin to being the director of a show (you’re also the lead actor!) and requires serious organisation. Every member of the behind-the-scenes crew, from the hairstylist and caterer, to the photographer and DJ, needs to know well in advance when they’re required and how they fit into the timings. BRIDAL BEAUTY It’s worth allocating plenty of time before the ceremony to achieve your camera-ready look. Get these timings wrong and you’ll set off a domino effect for the rest of the day. Experts suggest allowing up to one hour and 45 minutes for your own make-up, plus a few minutes for touch-ups…

1 ROYAL STYLE Wedding-worthy tiaras fit for a princess 2 SWEET TOOTH Cute ways to display your w-day sweet treats 3 CHOOSE WISELY Invaluable advice on who to pick as your wedding witness and what they need to do 4 STYLE LEADERS Gorgeous wedding dresses that will make mature brides feel their beautiful best – not a capped sleeve in sight 5 BUDGET BUCKET-LIST HONEYMOONS From Machu Picchu to the Maldives, find a once-in-a-lifetime holiday that won’t break the bank LET’S GET SOCIAL! Join us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter for exclusive w-day inspiration Sign up for our NEWSLETTER full of the LATEST WEDDING NEWS and TRENDS at youandyourwedding.co.uk @YOUYOURWEDDING…

SAVE SPEND SPREE…

THE BRIEF MOOD Creativity, softness and natural elements inspired by art and the beautiful surroundings. PALETTE Delicate soft pinks, creams and green. VENUE The spacious and charming Hales Hall in Norfolk. With its period features and sweeping grounds, it’s the perfect setting for a romantic big day. The thought of styling an entire wedding can be a daunting one. Where do you start when there are so many pretty ideas out there? Fortunately, you don’t have to search far for inspiration – your venue can be the perfect styling springboard. A gorgeous backdrop was exactly what Sundari Ferris, the stylist behind this whimsical wedding look, used as her starting point. “The inspiration was the beauty of Hales Hall,” she says. “The magic of this venue lies in its architecture and…

THE COUPLE Kristina & Sax Kristina Maguire, 35, and Sax Arshad, 37, held their main ceremony and reception at The Lost Orangery, Wiltshire This couple travelled far and wide in search of their ideal wedding space, visiting venues in Lake Como, Provence and London. Then Kristina came across 7KH›/RVW›2UDQJHU\››)URP›WKHLU›YHU\›ÀUVW› visit, she and Sax knew they’d found the one. “Even though our appointment was on a dreary January day, it felt so us ,” she says. Located near the picturesque village of Castle Combe, this restored manor house has glorious gardens and terraces, as well as beautifully designed interiors – a particular plus point for the couple. “We wanted somewhere that didn’t need much décor, and The Lost Orangery was magical enough on its own,” says Kristina. Accordingly, they focused solely…

…your guests go hungry If there isn’t enough to eat, or there are long gaps between servings, this is what guests will remember. Make sure there’s enough to eat, without long gaps, and that there’s plenty for vegetarians, too. …there are endless gaps One Y&YW staffer went to a wedding with a four-hour break between ceremony and reception. The venue was in the middle of nowhere and there was nothing to do. Don’t be that couple. …people feel lonely If you have guests who don’t know anyone apart from you, they might struggle in a room full of family relationships and established friendship groups, so consider letting them have a plus one. …there’s temperature trouble Winter wedding? It might be good to check with your venue that guests won’t have…

Deactivate Apple Pay and use cash – it’s surprisingly effective at making you aware of everything you spend Turn off the plugs for any electric items not in use – and don’t leave chargers plugged in Consider switching to a cheaper supermarket – sometimes we end up loyal to one shop just because it’s convenient, but you could buy the exact same items for less elsewhere. See if you can reduce your food bill at mysupermarket.co.uk To be a true saving pro, consider switching to own-brand products for household goods such as laundry detergent Have some meat-free weeks – according to the ONS, meat makes up a quarter of our weekly spend on food Get acquainted with voucher websites, which have an ever-changing range of codes for money off everything…

With Sandals Resorts’ Wedding Essentials* , if you stay for three nights or longer, all of this and more is complimentary... • A wedding planning team and marriage documents • Flowers for the bride and groom • A picturesque wedding location** with white Chiavari chairs and cushions • A manicure for the bride and foot massage for the groom*** • A one-hour cocktail reception with sparkling wine and hors-d’oeuvres • A signature cocktail for the bride and groom • A two-tier wedding cake with Mokara orchids • A mimosa breakfast in bed for the bride and groom • A honeymoon dinner for the bride and groom at a resort speciality restaurant with white-glove service and a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine • A 5”x7” wedding photo…

18 MONTHS TO GO Agree on a budget Draft a rough guest list so you know what size of venue to look for Decide whether you would prefer a civil or religious wedding ceremony and what type of venue you want View and book your venue Book your church and registrar/other celebrant Finalise your guest list Invest in wedding insurance Book your photographer and videographer 12 MONTHS TO GO Choose your bridesmaids, best man and ushers Send out your save the dates Book transport, if you need it Book your entertainment If you need to hire caterers, book them and discuss the menu options Start dress shopping Start bridesmaid dress shopping Book your hair and make-up artist, if you're having them NINE MONTHS TO GO Book your florist Book your…

THE DRESSES Beautiful fishtail dresses for a classic style with a glamorous twist THE THEME Grand and gorgeous gowns to match our countryside location THE ACCESSORIES We added extra romance by teaming sparkling earrings with pretty headpieces and floating veils SPECIAL THANKS The fashion team shot on location at Butley Priory, Suffolk. Originally a 14th-century monastery, this stunning wedding venue has retained its original charm, with vaulted ceilings and striking arched windows throughout. Complete with wonderful grounds and impressive Great Hall, it’s a truly romantic setting for a beautiful country wedding. butleypriory.co.uk…

Bold If the thought of a top hat and tails sends your man into a panic, this is the perfect alternative. Burgundy tuxedos, quirky ties and loud prints are cool choices for guys that want a twist on tradition. Grey For a sophisticated and suave big-day style, grooms can’t go wrong with a grey suit. It’s a classic look that will never go out of style, and can be accessorised ZLWK›VWDWHPHQW›FXIÁLQNV› or a designer watch should your man want to add a personal touch.…

Stress LESS We know that stress can leave skin dull and tired – curse those late RSVPs! Luckily, ARK Skincare’s Skin Perfector De-Stress Serum, £45, is here. Its calming, anti-inflammatory formula diminishes the appearance of stress-induced fatigue. Sleep soundly Need help nodding off? Try the Aromatherapy Associates Relax & Sleep Edit, £33. One sniff of the essential oils in these soothing goodies and you should be out like a light. LIP service Here are our favourite new products ahead of the biggest kiss of your life... For EVERY DAY Eos Crystal lip balm, £6.99. Not only are these ridiculously Instagrammable, they’re extra nourishing, too. For THE HEN DO Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture The Slim, £29. Long-wearing, with six new shades launching this February. For THE BIG DAY Erborian…

NO. 15 GREAT PULTENEY, Bath WHERE Quirky Georgian townhouse No. 15 Great Pulteney is located on one of this elegant city’s most charming streets. A short VWUROO›LQWR›WRZQ›\RX·OO›ÀQG› the iconic Bath Abbey, an array of independent restaurants and shops, and the historic Roman Baths. WHY From a chandelier made from earrings to a cocktail menu of playing cards at Bar 15, the décor at this hotel is delightfully different. Each of the 40 rooms have their own unique surprises – ours featured a dolls’ house with a Nespresso machine hidden within! The KHOS›\RXUVHOI›ODUGHU›RQ›RXU› ÁRRU›ZDV›D›VWHS›XS›IURP›WKH› average mini bar – think pick ’n’ mix sweets and WKHDWUH›VL]H›LFH›FUHDP›SRWV›› For a special treat, book in for the Natura Bissé Time Out Treatment in Spa 15, then head to the exposed stone vaults and unwind LQ›WKH›6FDQGL›VW\OH›KRW›WXE›…

FIRST STEPS Congratulations – the fun starts now! Here’s where to begin once you’ve said yes… IN THE BEGINNING Once you’ve celebrated, this is a good time to gather inspiration. Storing your ideas in one place means you won’t forget anything, whether you choose to use an online mood-board service such as Pinterest (check out pinterest.com/youyourwedding) or create a classic cut-outs wedding file (including plenty of pictures from You & Your Wedding). If you fancy some wedding chat, the You & Your Wedding forum (youandyourwedding.co.uk/forum) is a great place to swap ideas. CHOOSE THE BRIDAL PARTY The sooner you appoint your maids, ushers, best man and any others, the sooner your favourite gals and guys can start celebrating. NAME THE DAY Each season has fabulous potential for weddings, though keep…

1 PONDER YOUR IDEAL PARTY Each different event size has its own advantages. If you go big (say, 150 or more), you’ll be able to include all your nearest and dearest, as well as filling the dance floor for a night to remember. However, if you trim your list to around 100, you’ll find a wider choice of venues. A gathering of around 50 guests means you’ll be able to include personal touches that would be too time-consuming at a large affair, such as handwritten thank-you notes at every place setting. A super-intimate affair (just you, your partner and your best friends) allows you to arrange a seriously decadent dinner. 2 KNOW YOUR EXACT LIMITS The main factors to take into account are space and budget. Obviously, you can’t go…

♦ Practicalities How are payments handled? Is there a minimum spend? Is VAT included? Is the venue hosting another wedding on the day? What about parking? Can guests get an accommodation discount? When do you need final numbers? Is there a plan B in case of rain? ♦ Small print Are glassware, linens, chairs, and so on, included? Are candles, fireworks or confetti OK? Are there sound restrictions? What time does it have to finish? ♦ Decorations Can we personalise the venue? When can we access? Do you set up? ♦ Food and drink Can we bring our own alcohol and is there a corkage fee? Can we use our own caterers? Do you offer tastings? What are the evening buffet options?…

Whether you’re going bridal boutique or high street, sample sale or bespoke, read our top tips for finding The One. DO YOUR HOMEWORK Build a picture of what you want by checking out You & Your Wedding, both in print and online, and also look at pinterest.com/youyourwedding . Before making an appointment at a boutique or shop, check its website to see if it carries designs you like at your price point. ASSESS YOUR STYLE Consider which dresses you already own that make you feel fantastic. Think about practicalities, too – a long train or fitted fishtail may not be the best choice for garden games or dancing the night away. And don’t forget the season – a floaty Grecian gown in winter may not feel like such a good…

The stationery for your wedding is so much more than pretty paper and matching envelopes. On the practical side, this is how you give guests all the information they need to enjoy the day, particularly the crucial whens and wheres. On a more emotional level, your invitations are the first glimpse your friends and family will have of what you’re planning. And it’s not just about the invites – there are many different types of stationery you can use to help everything run smoothly and add a sense of style. SAVE THE DATE These are a good idea if you want to give plenty of notice, particularly if you’re saying “I do” overseas or in the peak wedding period of spring and summer, and to avoid clashing with booked holidays.…

Chances are, your wedding day will fly by in a happy blur of talking and toasting. The photos will let you relive the whole story in detail for years to come. START EARLY Popular photographers usually get booked up 12-18 months in advance, although you may find there’s more flexibility for weekday weddings. CHOOSE THE LOOK There are almost as many different styles as there are wedding photographers, ranging from the classic posed “portraiture” approach to very hands-off “reportage”. Some snappers aim for a soft, romantic effect, while others are more about crystal-clear images. Look at the real weddings we feature in You & Your Wedding and online, particularly celebrations at similar venues to yours, and make a note of any photographers whose work catches your eye. Elements to look…

♦ Canapés Bite-sized treats usually circulated at the drinks reception. ♦ Covers The term caterers use to refer to guests. ♦ Full service Caterer who can also help with overall planning. ♦ Finger buffet Made up of dishes you can eat with your hands, such as sandwiches etc. ♦ Fork buffet Made up of dishes that require the use of cutlery. ♦ Charger Large plate that’s purely decorative. ♦ Linens Tablecloth and napkins. Also referred to as napery. ♦ Flatware Another word for cutlery. ♦ Corkage A charge made by the venue for serving wine you’ve provided, on a per-bottle basis.…

FAMILY PARTY Music Get everyone on the floor with a cèilidh, barn dance or similar gathering. Entertainment Book a wandering magician or caricaturist, and consider hiring a bouncy castle or giant Jenga for outdoor fun. COUNTRY HOUSE ELEGANCE Music Have a string quartet or harpist during the drinks reception, followed by a 30s-style tea dance, or a jazz or swing band. Entertainment Boules and croquet on the lawn. CITY VIBES Music Chill-out tunes during dinner, then a superstar DJ (we love Matt Maurice and Wedding Smashers) for the dancing. Or try Stick It On, which lets you and your guests take it in turns to DJ with professional equipment. Entertainment A casino with fake money for buying chips. BARNSTORMING Music Fun and funky band – mariachi or salsa. Entertainment Fairground…