Dream Weddings Magazine - Bristol, Somerset & Wiltshire - iss.32

Y O U R FREE L O C A L W E D D I N G M A G A Z I N E 

dream 

WEDDINGS 

in Bristol Somerset 

& Wiltshire 

HAPPILY... 

EVER AFTERS 

Fabulous wedding flowers 

and contemporary cakes 

PRETTY AS 

A PICTURE 

Real brides star in their own 

black & white magic show 

PARTY PLAN 

Perfect venues to suit every 

bride’s style – and her budget 

...GET THE 

LOWDOWN 

Your step-by-step guide to 

organising the perfect day 

WINTER 2015 / 

SPRING 2016 

ISSUE 32 

SCAN ME ON YOUR 

SMARTPHONE: 

Hot off 

Find us on: 

the Catwalk 

YOUR FIRST PEEK 

AT THE SIZZLING 

NEW 2016 BRIDAL 

COLLECTIONS 

Don’t miss our fantastic website: www.dream-weddings-magazine.co.uk 

copy 

COMPLIMENTARY

Contact us for special offers 

in November 2015 

•Designer Bridal Gowns 

•Bridesmaids 

•Plus sizes available in store 

•Last minute weddings 

can be catered for 

www.aclassbrides.co.uk 

Brislington, Bristol - Tel: 0117 919 3007

congratulations... 

contents 

WINTER 2015 / SPRING 2016 • ISSUE 32 

p24-25 - BLACK & WHITE... 

IT’S THE NEW COLOUR 

You’ve dreamt of your wedding day since 

you were a little girl – the fabulous dress, the 

handsome groom, the flowers, the music, the 

blissful romance of it all. And now you’ve 

organised the handsome groom, it’s time to get 

down to the rest of the planning, so your wedding 

day is as magical as you always dreamed. 

However daunting the whole prospect seems at the 

outset, this is one celebration everyone wants to be a 

spectacular success and you will find good wishes and 

friendly faces wherever you turn for help. 

Planning your wedding starts here and now and in this issue 

of Dream Weddings you will find tips and hints on every aspect 

of your big day. You’ll also find advertisements from a whole 

army of local businesses, all with plenty of experience to call on. 

They will work with your ideas, offer creative suggestions of 

their own and find solutions to match every budget. They know 

the shortcuts and pitfalls – and they’re fully aware of how 

important it is to you that everything runs smoothly. So turn the 

page, start planning your big day. 

And enjoy every minute of it! 

p2-19 - RAZZLE 

AND DAZZLE EM! 

p2-17 - 

...RAZZLE 

DAZZLE ’EM 

COVER PHOTO BY A TALL LONG LEGGED BIRD, 

TEL: 07809 459478 • WWW.ATALLLONGLEGGEDBIRD.COM 

DISCLAIMER: While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of 

advertisements and editorial in this publication, County Magazines Ltd cannot 

accept responsibility for loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the 

contents of this magazine. The views expressed are not necessarily those of 

the publisher or editor. While every care is taken with material submitted 

for publication, no liability for loss or damage can be accepted by the 

publisher or its agents. 

FOLLOW 

US ON: 

EDITOR 

ADVERTISING 

ACCOUNTS 

DESIGN 

DISTRIBUTION 

JULIA SNOW 

HELEN JOHNSON 

EVE SZEREMETA 

MADELINE RIGGS 

TOM HUTTON 

JANE GREY 

PUBLISHER COUNTY MAGAZINES LTD, 

THE GRANGE, STOKEINTEIGNHEAD, 

NEWTON ABBOT, DEVON TQ12 4QH. 

TELEPHONE: 01626 873364 

EMAIL: ENQUIRIES@COUNTYMAGAZINES.CO.UK 

www.dream-weddings-magazine.co.uk 

Visit our website at 


2-19 Designer dazzle 

International designers pull out all the 

stops for tomorrow’s beautiful brides 

20-21 Flower power 

Stunning bridal flowers from top florists 

add style and colour to your perfect day 

22-23 Let them eat cake! 

Wedding cakes come in all shapes 

and flavours, from formal to funky... 

24-25 Monochrome magic 

Colour is cool, but black & white is 

stylish when it comes to photographs 

26 Boys & girls come out to play 

How to make sure your hen and 

stag parties are the talk of the town 

p20-21 - BLOOMING DELICIOUS 

27-33 Now here’s the plan... 

Careful planning and attention to detail 

will make the day run like clockwork 

34-37 Fair deal 

Get up-to-date ideas and inspiration 

from the region’s top wedding fairs 

38 Transport of delight 

Make a spectacular entrance by 

choosing wedding cars to turn all heads 

39-55 Set the scene 

Perfect venues for every wedding – and 

special touches from decor to fireworks 

56 Dates for your diary 

Advertisers’ index plus our handy 

round-up of Spring wedding fairs near you 

D R E A M W E D D I N G S I N B R I S T O L , S O M E R S E T & W I L T S H I R E • 1

Winter 

wonderl 

ALL PICTURES: SOPHIA TOLLI AT SO GORGEOUS 

IN WORLE AND ABBI CHAPEL IN WEST BUCKLAND 

The magic of a winter wedding: it’s in the dark, 

romantic evenings, the warmth of the love from 

family and friends, the blazing log fires, the 

dancing candlelight... and the Snow Queen bride. 

Have your wedding in a winter wonderland and 

you can often claim generous off-season discounts from a 

variety of venues. Who knows? You may even have snow... 

2 • D R E A M W E D D I N G S I N B R I S T O L , S O M E R S E T & W I L T S H I R E

and... 


...or 

sizzling 

PICTURED & INSET: 

LOVE MARLEY AT 

CLIFTON BRIDES 

IN BRISTOL 

into 


summer? 

Bright, sunshiny days, balmy summer evenings: 

it’s no surprise that the prime wedding season is 

summer. Floating bridal gowns, the heady scent 

of beautiful summer bouquets, bridesmaids as 

pretty as sweet peas and groomsmen as handsome as 

movie stars: it’s a recipe for absolute perfection. 

Choose a venue with air conditioning in case it really is 

a sizzling hot day – but be ready with a pretty bridal 

umbrella in case the weather proves a little less 

than seasonal. 

PICTURED, ABOVE & RIGHT: 

MORI LEE AT SPECIAL DAY & APPLETONS IN KEYNSHAM 

AND WHITE LACE & PROMISES IN WESTON SUPER MARE 


LA SPOSA AT 

BRIDE AT HOME 

IN BRISTOL 

Veiled 

in 

mystery... 


RIGHT: 

JUSTIN ALEXANDER AT 

WHITE LACE 

& PROMISES IN 

WESTON SUPER MARE 

Brides often say that choosing their 

dress was wonderful, but they really 

felt like brides when they put on 

their veils. 

Our top tips? 

Choose a veil which complements your dress 

- if that has lots of lovely back detail, for 

instance, you don’t want it hidden beneath layers 

and layers of tulle. 

Choose your hairstyle and your hair accessories 

before deciding on your veil. Some look better 

with a stylish updo or a sleek chignon, others 

complement relaxed, informal hair. 

Whatever your choice, take the whole 

headdress along to your hairdresser 

so you can both work out the perfect 

look in advance of the big day. 

PICTURED, 

INSETS LEFT 

& ABOVE: 

LA SPOSA AT 

BRIDE AT HOME 

IN BRISTOL 


ELLA ROSA AT 

A CLASS 

BRIDES IN 

BRISTOL 


...or 

daringly 

different ? 

SOTTERO & 

MIDGLEY AT 

SPECIAL DAY 

& APPLETONS 

IN KEYNSHAM 

BELOW & RIGHT: 

INDIVIDUAL DESIGN BY LISA 

KEATING BRIDAL IN YATTON 

PHOTO BY MARIE MAN PHOTOGRAPHY 

WWW.MARIEMAN.COM 

You’re going to be the centre of attention on your wedding day, 

and this is your opportunity to let the drama queen in you out 

on the loose. Weddings are staged much like theatrical 

productions – the lights, the scenery, the costumes – with 

you (and your groom, of course) centre stage. 

So you can safely allow yourself every last ounce of theatre when 

you’re choosing your outfit and accessories. Wear them with a 

dazzling smile as you step out in front of your adoring public. 

PHOTO BY VENETIA NORRINGTON PHOTOGRAPHY 

WWW.VENETIANORRINGTON.COM 

PHOTO BY MARIE MAN PHOTOGRAPHY 

WWW.MARIEMAN.COM 

NICOLA ANNE AT A CLASS BRIDES IN BRISTOL 


MAIN PICTURE & 

INSET RIGHT: 

ALLURE WOMEN AT 

A CLASS BRIDES 

IN BRISTOL 

So you’re not a perfect dress size 8, or 10 

or 12. And that engagement ring on your 

finger is nothing if not proof positive that 

your husband-to-be loves your sexy, 

voluptuous curves. 

Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes and brides 

with generously curvaceous figures needn’t feel 

nervous about choosing their bridal gowns. 

Most collections come in sizes up to 30 and some 

collections, specially designed to flatter fuller figures 

start at size 16 and go up to 36. 

Cute & 

1 0 • D R E A M W E D D I N G S I N B R I S T O L , S O M E R S E T & W I L T S H I R E

BELOW & RIGHT: SONSIE BY VERMONIA AT SPECIAL DAY & APPLETONS 

IN KEYNSHAM AND SO GORGEOUS IN WORLE 

curvelicious 

If you’re looking for a few pointers: 

• A streamlined design in a classically styled gown will elongate 

your figure; 

• A high-waisted, A-line gown will skim your tummy, and 

sleeves or a pretty wrap will cover less than perfect arms; 

• Perfectly fitting underwear makes a huge difference, so 

invest in it before you start looking for your dress. 

And finally, remember your most beautiful accessory is 

your smile. If you’re happy and confident, you can’t help 

but be a beautiful bride. 

ALLURE WOMEN AT 

A CLASS BRIDES 

IN BRISTOL 

D R E A M W E D D I N G S I N B R I S T O L , S O M E R S E T & W I L T S H I R E • 1 1

26 years of bridal styling 

“ 

Dear Clifton Brides, 

Thank you for all your help with the 

dress and all the fittings. It really was 

my dream dress. Thank you again. 

Emily Hickman now Emily Corry 

“ 

” 

Dear all at Clifton Brides, 

thank you all for your 

assistance and kindness in 

helping me find the perfect 

dress. I always had such fun 

at my fittings and you were 

always so professional but 

relaxed at the same time, 

I'll miss coming to your 

amazing shop. All the best 

Emilie Sully 

& Kelly Davidson 

“ 

Sample gowns 

often available 

to take away 

on the day... 

“ 

To all at Clifton Brides, 

Just a little note to say 

thanks for the fantastic job 

you did with my wedding dress- 

I absolutely loved wearing it 

and had many lovely comments 

about how gorgeous it was. 

We had a wonderful day with 

memories we will treasure for 

ever. Thanks again 

Kate Langley, 

Kev and baby Charlie 

“ 

186 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2XU • Tel: 0117 9237928 

sales@cliftonbrides.co.uk • www.cliftonbrides.co.uk

Proud stockists 

of world renowned 

British & 

international 

designers 

Personal one to one 

consultations with 

experienced stylists 

and a fitting service 

you can rely on. 

186 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2XU • Tel: 0117 9237928 

sales@cliftonbrides.co.uk • www.cliftonbrides.co.uk

“Thankyou so much, I Love my dress more than 

I can express. It has been an absolute pleasure 

meeting you. I think you are amazing.” 

Michelle Vincentelli 

01934 830042 or 07984 896732 

www.lkbespokebridal.co.uk 

Simply 

LADYBIRD AT FUTURE BRIDES IN CHIPPING SODBURY 


BELOW: LADYBIRD AT FUTURE 

BRIDES IN CHIPPING SODBURY 

As you start your search for that 

special dress, why not make an 

appointment at the wellestablished 

Bride at Home 

boutique? Situated within easy 

reach of Bristol and Bath, on the Downend 

High Street, the store offers a warm 

welcome and friendly, top class service for 

future brides and their bridal party. 

Their stunning collection includes designs by La 

Sposa, Jasmine, Eternity and Bonny Bridal, and 

a brand new range from Allure Romance. As a 

talented designer and seamstress with over 25 

years’ experience, owner Jan Wright provides a 

bespoke alterations service. ‘We often reshape 

dresses to fit the bride’s different circumstances 

and can customise each gown by adding or 

removing straps, making a matching bolero or 

adding extra beadwork,’ says Jan. 

There’s also a gorgeous collection of 

bridesmaids dresses and Mother of the Bride 

outfits, complete with matching accessories. 

Whether you take your mum along or bring all 

your bridesmaids with you, the team of helpful 

and professional bridal consultants at Bride at 

Home will provide you with their undivided 

attention and make your experience a very 

happy one. 

For more details, call 0117 956 8068 or visit 

the website at www.brideathome.co.uk. 

stunning 

JASMINE BRIDAL AT BRIDE 

AT HOME IN BRISTOL 

F O R B E A U T I F U L 

B R I D A L G O W N S 

*Bridesmaids * Menswear * 

Accessories 

42, High Street, Chipping Sodbury, 

Bristol BS37 6AH 

Tel: 01454 311722 

www.futurebrides.co.uk 


Tel: 01934 526914 

210 High Street, Worle, Somerset BS22 6JE • www.sogorgeousbridal.co.uk 

A stunning collection of gowns 

for the bride looking for 

something a little different. 

"I visited Abbi Chapel yesterday and was 

blown away! Wonderful service, exquisite 

dresses and fabulous, experienced staff! 

Found my perfect dress and was made to 

feel like a princess! I would recommend 

Abbi Chapel to anyone! X x" 

Hannah Wright 

Tel: 01823 690096 

www.abbichapel.co.uk 

Oake House, Silver Street, West Buckland, 

Wellington, Somerset TA21 9LR 

(Just under a mile from J26 M5) 


Special Day & Appletons 

Fabulous wedding gowns from leading Designers 

including Mori Lee, Sottero & Midgley, Mark Lesley, 

Donna Salado, Diane Le Grand, Opulence by 

Romantica, Lou Lou and for our curvaceous Brides 

Julietta by Mori Lee, Silhouette & Sonsie 

Over 500 Bridesmaid dresses in stock including 

Mori Lee, Mark Lesley, Ebony Rose, Veromia and 

the largest range in the South West of the 

award winning Dessy collection 

Huge range of Mother of the Bride/Groom outfits 

Cabotine, Zelia, Mascara & L’Atelier 

D E S I G N E R B R I D A L W E A R 

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE AND GROOM 

BRIDESMAIDS / MEN’S FORMAL HIRE 

Exclusively offered by RBA Members, the RBA Brides' 

Protection Scheme guarantees to each RBA Bride the peace of 

mind that the dress she buys will be safe for her day - Special 

Day & Appletons are the only RBA members in Bristol & Bath. 

12 HIGH STREET, KEYNSHAM, BS31 1DQ - Tel: 0117 9860303 or 9863582 

email: special.day@btconnect.com • www.specialdayandappletons.co.uk

BELOW: ELIZA & ETHAN AT A CLASS BRIDES IN BRISTOL AND SO GORGEOUS IN WORLE 

LEFT & RIGHT: EBONY ROSE AT SPECIAL 

Of maids 

DAY & APPLETONS IN KEYNSHAM 

So you’ve chosen your man, 

you’ve chosen your dress, 

you’ve chosen your 

bridesmaids: now for the fun of 

choosing the bridesmaids’ outfits! You 

don’t want them to upstage you, of 

course, but you want them to look pretty 

gorgeous too, right? Colour is first on the 

agenda: autumn weddings can opt for 

ravishing russets, winter brides can go for rich, 

deep reds, spring and summer naturally bring 

out the pastels in all of us. Whatever your choice, 

tie it in with your bouquet flowers to bring the 

whole picture together. 

A word of advice: this is not a dictatorship and if 

you’re asking your bridesmaids to pay for their 

own dresses, you should allow them some say in 

what they’re going to wear. 

Not every style will suit them all, but it’s possible to 

choose the same shade - or complementary colour 

tones - in different styles for each of your friends. 

And do remember, they need to be comfortable! 


It’s easy for the groom to feel a bit left out in the 

whirlwind of the wedding preparations, but what 

he’s going to wear is (almost) as important as 

that dress! Traditionally the groom and his 

attendants wear morning dress – black morning 

coat, black and grey striped trousers, a 

waistcoat and tie. A morning coat is a singlebreasted 

tail coat which fastens with one button. 

Below the button, the coat sweeps away to the 

sides to form the tails behind. 

And you don’t have to stick to formal black. You 

can get morning dress in stunning silver grey or 

team your pants with a blue Prince Edward jacket. 

It’s when it comes to the waistcoat and tie or 

cravat that the groom gets a real chance to 

express his personality. 

If you’re going traditional, choose a plain or 

delicately pattered dove grey or cream waistcoat, 

with tie to match. If you want some colour, then it 

really is important that it reflects the colour the 

bridesmaids will be wearing. 

And when you’re choosing your waistcoat, do bear 

in mind that you may want to remove your jacket at 

the evening reception. 

ABOVE & BELOW: MEN'S FORMAL HIRE AT 

men 

FUTURE BRIDES IN CHIPPING SODBURY 

and 

ABOVE & BELOW: MEN’S FORMAL HIRE AT 

SPECIAL DAY & APPLETONS IN KEYNSHAM 


Creative & individual flowers 

for your special day 

From her chic boutique florist in the heart of 

Clifton Village, Lisa and her creative team will 

design gorgeous wedding flowers to enhance 

your perfect day – from beautiful bridal bouquets 

to fabulous floral decorations. 

lisa elliott 

floral design 

Bristol 0117 9732440 

1 waterloo street, clifton village 

Bristol BS8 4BT 

email: lisa@lisa-elliott.co.uk 

www.lisa-elliott.co.uk 

Flowers with 

true passion 

Roses, 

ABOVE & RIGHT: 

Based in Cadbury Garden & 

Leisure at Congresbury, 

Kimberley’s the Florist are 

specialists in luxurious 

bespoke wedding flowers. 

Call 01934 875736 or visit 

www.kimberleystheflorist.co.uk 

Classic & elegant to 

contemporary & chic 

Award winning flowers 

Specialists in 

the fine art 

of floristry 

Downend, Bristol 

Tel: 07722 383601 

www.tincanfloral.co.uk 

Cadbury Garden & Leisure, Small Way, 

Congresbury BS49 5AA 

Tel: 01934 875736 

www.kimberleystheflorist.co.uk 


oses 

all the way... 

Boutique florist Lisa Elliott, based in 

the heart of Clifton Village, 

specialises in wedding floristry, 

creating beautiful bridal bouquets 

and stunning decorations to adorn the 

church and reception venue. Lisa and her 

team bring a chic, contemporary touch and 

can offer advice and solutions to suit all 

styles, venues and budgets. 

For details, call 0117 973 2440 or visit 

www.lisa-elliott.co.uk. 

PHOTO BY JO HANSFORD 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

Book Adele Brown of Tin Can Floral for your 

wedding flowers and you can be sure of their 

undivided attention. The Bristol-based florist 

only takes one wedding per day and already has 

bookings for dates in 12 months’ time. 

Adele, who specialises in vintage-inspired 

designs, works closely with each bride to create 

bespoke florals that celebrate your individuality, 

passions, love and dreams. 

For more details, call 07722 383601 or visit 

www.tincanfloral.co.uk. 


Award Winning 

Wedding Cakes 

£50 

your wedding 

cake. 

Just quote DREAM50 

(Terms and Conditions 

apply) 

“The cake was stunning!” 

Jess, Orchardleigh, Sept 2015 

15 Fountain Buildings, 

Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 5DX 

www.bathcakecompany.co.uk 

e: bathcakecompany@gmail.com 

Tel: 01225 446094 

Happily 

Wedding Cakes, Celebration Cakes and Cupcakes 

Cakes by Elan specialises in wedding 

cakes that will be a stunning 

centrepiece on your special day. Elan 

offers a no obligation design 

consultation and tasting to create your own 

bespoke wedding cake. Various flavours are 

available including an indulgent Belgian 

chocolate cake with a ganache filling and 

delicious lemon sponge with butter cream and 

lemon curd filling. Your cake will taste as good 

as it looks. 

For more information, call 01275 399858 or 

visit www.cakesbyelan.co.uk. 

Handmade, contemporary & classical wedding cakes 

All made to order and are one off original designs. 

Tel: 07768 165792 

www.carefreecakes.co.uk 


everafters... 

Bath Cake Company provides award 

winning bespoke wedding cakes for your 

special day. Their wedding cake 

showroom will inspire you with beautiful 

designs to help you create a stylish wedding cake 

unique to you. 

Sarah Wring-Nash at 

Carefree Cakes specialises 

in hand-made contemporary 

and classical wedding cakes, all 

of them in one-off original 

designs and all made to order. 

She also makes individual 

cupcakes and – the latest 

thing in edible favours – 

cakepops tailored to your 

wedding theme. 

For a free consultation, 

where you can see some of 

her work and taste some of the flavours 

available, call 07768 165792 or visit the 

website at www.carefreecakes.co.uk. 

Why not book your complimentary wedding cake 

consultation and tasting today to create your 

dream wedding cake? 

For more details, call 01225 446094 or visit 

www.bathcakecompany.co.uk. 


PHOTO BY RYAN GOOLD PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY AJ PHOTOGRAPHIC 

Black 

& white? 


PHOTO BY RYAN GOOLD 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY WHITE DOVE PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY 

SIOBHAN AMY 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY 

WHITE DOVE 

PHOTOGRAPHY 


PHOTO BY SIOBHAN AMY PHOTOGRAPHY 



It’s the new colour... 

PHOTO BY 

WHITE DOVE 

PHOTOGRAPHY 


PHOTO BY 

SIOBHAN AMY 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY 

RYAN GOOLD 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY 

WHITE DOVE PHOTOGRAPHY 


Running the best 

hen & stag parties 

So you’re the Best Man or 

the Chief Bridesmaid, 

congratulations! You 

might think that the pressure 

on the big day is going to be 

enormous... but it’s nothing 

compared with the headaches 

(both literally and figuratively) 

that the stag and hen parties 

can throw up. 

MAKE YOURS A 

MEMORABLE ONE AND 

AT A GREAT PRICE 

FANCY AN 

ACTION 

PACKED 

HEN OR 

STAG PARTY? 

Just 20 minutes from Bristol! 

Call 01275 842225 or 07770 688918 

www.westonlodgeshootingground.co.uk 

So what should you bear in mind? 

First, it’s about the bride or groom: 

Choose the sort of party you know they 

will enjoy and involve them in the 

planning. 

Second, consider everybody’s budget: 

You may have money to burn, but other 

potential attendees may be on limited 

budgets for any number of reasons. 

If you ask them to spend more than they 

can afford, it will ruin their enjoyment and 

consequently that of the rest of the party. 

Third, set your date and location far 

enough in advance to ensure the 

maximum chance of attendees having 

the date free. 

David Down, who runs Weston Lodge 

Shooting Ground just 20 minutes from 

Bristol city centre, has been providing 

activity-packed hen and stag parties for 

21 years. 

You can try your hand at clay pigeon 

shooting, off road karting or quad biking 

- in any combination you like. There are 

experienced staff to help you get the most 

out of the day and competitions with 

Olympic-style medals for the winners. 

David said: ‘We’re in a beautiful woodland 

setting which is part of a working 200 

acre farm and have 12 karts, six quad 

bikes and highly experienced clay pigeon 

instructors. 

‘We have around 500 groups every 

year, but we never mix the groups, so 

all our parties have exclusive use of the 

facilities they book. 

‘I think we’re so popular because 

Bristol is so easily accessible from all 

corners of the country, there’s lots of 

accommodation, tons of nightlife - 

and we make sure everyone has a 

great time.’ 

There’s food on site, but many parties 

choose to do one or two activities in the 

morning, head off to one of eight lovely 

country pubs within easy reach for 

lunch and return in the afternoon for 

another activity. 

David said: ‘Lots of the groups get right 

into the spirit of the day by dressing up 

as country ladies or gentlemen and, 

even if they’ve never tried any of the 

activities before, they always have an 

action-packed day, which everyone 

really enjoys.’ 

For more information, call 01275 842 225 

or 07770 688 918 or visit the website at 

www.westonlodgeshootingground.co.uk. 


cut out and keep 

The Engagement 

Traditionally, the first thing to do after telling 

your family and close friends about your 

forthcoming marriage is to announce your 

engagement in your local and/or a national 

newspaper. Do check how much it will cost 

before you place the announcement. 

It will usually read: 

The engagement is announced between Michael, 

elder son of Mr and Mrs David Jones, of 

Downend, Bristol and Jennifer Anne, only 

daughter of Mr and Mrs Simon Hayes, of 

Marlborough, Wiltshire. 

Though the habit of giving engagement presents 

has now fallen somewhat into disuse, if you are 

lucky enough to receive some, don’t forget to 

write and thank the senders. 

Getting down 

to Business 

The very first things you must decide about 

your wedding are where, when - and how 

much. The most popular days for weddings 

are Saturdays and the most popular months are 

from May right through to September. If your 

plans follow that pattern, be aware that the most 

popular venues get booked up very early, so set 

the date and book the venues as soon as 

possible after your engagement. 

Talk to both sets of parents about setting 

budgets and who is going to pay for what. 

It is increasingly common for bridesmaids to pay 

for their own dresses, but if they do you should 

allow them some say in what they are going to 

wear. If you plan to pay for them yourself, you 

can choose their outfits. 

Your wedding will probably be the biggest 

party you ever throw - which means it will 

probably also be the most expensive. So it’s 

vital that you set your budget and stick to it. 

Nowadays it’s becoming much more common 

for the bride and groom themselves and even 

the groom’s parents to contribute towards the 

cost. Again, whoever is contributing to the 

cost should have some say in how the money 

is spent. 

INSURANCE 

Much though we hate to say it, things can 

go wrong at a wedding and it’s some 

consolation to know that you won’t lose 

out financially if they do. Insurance policies 

on offer cover everything from damage to 

your wedding dress to loss of deposits due to 

cancellation of the wedding and theft of 

Plan ahead for 

your perfect day 

So how much is it all 

going to cost? 

Basically, the answer is as much or as little 

as you want it to. An intimate ceremony 

with lunch in your favourite pub for your 

closest family and friends can be every bit as 

special as a huge event at a top venue for 

hundreds of guests. 

If you’re working on a limited budget, decide 

what’s most important to you and spend your 

money on that. Maybe you want a really 

spectacular dress and are prepared to do without 

a flashy car to take you to the reception. Or 

perhaps you’ve always wanted to arrive at your 

wedding in a pony and trap, and will settle for 

fewer guests. 

Whatever you decide, do remember that many 

guests may be coming a long way and spending 

a lot of money simply to attend your wedding, so 

it’s often better to look after a small number of 

people well than to invite more than you can 

comfortably cater for. 

The important thing is that it’s your day and the 

last thing you want to be worrying about is how 

you’re going to find the money to pay for it. So 

be realistic when you’re setting your budget - 

and remember that, with a little imagination, you 

can make your money go a lot further. 

Your budget will need to cover: 

• Wedding ring(s) 

• Wedding dress 

• Bridesmaids’ and attendants’ outfits 

• Groom’s suit 

• Stationery 

• Flowers 

• Fees for the ceremony 

• Reception venue, food and drink 

• Wedding cake 

• Photographs/video 

• Wedding transport 

• Thank you gifts for best man and attendants 

• Going away outfits 

• Honeymoon 

wedding presents. Do get quotes before you 

decide which one to take out - and do read 

the small print to see exactly what each 

policy covers. 

Should unforeseen circumstances mean the 

postponment or cancellation of your 

wedding, guests can either be notified by 

telephone or by a personal or printed 

A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE 

TO ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW 

- AND THEN SOME... 

TRADITIONALLY, 

the bride’s parents pay for: 

• Announcements in the newspapers 

• All the wedding stationery 

• Bride’s and bridesmaids’ dresses 

• Transport for the bridal party to the 

ceremony and from the ceremony 

to the reception 

• Flowers for the church and the reception 

• The reception itself 

• The wedding cake 

The groom 

traditionally pays for: 

• All the fees - whether for church 

officials (including vicar, organist, 

choir, bellringers) or for the registrar 

and civil licence. 

• Bouquets for the bride and 

bridesmaids, sprays of flowers for the 

bride’s mother and his own mother and 

buttonholes for himself, the best man 

and the ushers. 

• Engagement and wedding rings for the 

bride. 

• Presents for the best man and the 

bride’s attendants. 

• Transport to the ceremony for himself 

and the best man and to the reception for 

himself and the bride 

• The honeymoon. 

note saying: 

Mr and Mrs Simon Hayes announce that the 

wedding of their daughter Jennifer Anne to 

Mr Michael Jones will be postponed until 

(date)/will not now take place. If you have 

announced the engagement in the 

newspaper, it would be appropriate to place a 

similarly worded notice there too. 

Planning Makes Perfect 


Photo by Ryan Goold Photography 

Brides! 

Last chance 

to vote..! 

supporting The Wedding Wishing Well Foundation, 

which funds and organises weddings for couples 

affected by terminal and life-limiting illnesses 

WEDDING SUPPLIERS... 

Last chance to register! 

The Bristol and Somerset Awards are free to enter, and open to 

all wedding suppliers. Simply fill out the entry form on the 

awards website, let your couples know that you are registered, 

and prepare to receive those votes. 

For full details, visit 

www.bristolandsomersetweddingawards.co.uk 

Sponsored by: 

wEDDINGS 

dream 

Closing date for entries 

31st December, 2015 

magazine 

Did your wedding suppliers go the extra 

mile for your big day? Well, there’s no 

better way to thank them than giving 

them your vote in the Bristol & Somerset 

Wedding Awards. Visit the website and 

you can vote in as many categories as 

you like. Your votes will form the basis 

of the judges final decisions. 

...but Hurry! 

Voting closes on January 17th, 2016


REGISTER OFFICE 

To marry at a register office or building approved 

for civil ceremonies, your first step is to contact 

the registrar and/or venue to confirm registrar 

and date are available. 

Then both bride and groom must each give 

notice of the wedding in person at the register 

office covering the area where they live (and 

where they must have been in residence for at 

least seven days). 

If you both live in the same district you should 

attend the register office together - but whether 

you do or not, ring your local office first as many 

now operate appointment systems. 

Each of you will have to produce evidence of your 

name, age, marital status and nationality - for 

example, a current valid full passport. If you 

don’t have one, you’ll need two documents - for 

example a birth certificate and utility bill. 

If you have been married before, you’ll need 

evidence that you are now free to marry - for 

instance a decree absolute or former spouse’s 

death certificate. 

Photocopies of any documents are not normally 

acceptable. 

The fee for giving notice is £35.00 each and you 

must wait 15 clear days before the wedding. 

In exceptional circumstances the Registrar 

General may consider waiving the waiting period. 

A notice of marriage is valid for 12 months. 

THE NORMAL ORDER 

OF SERVICE FOR A 

CHURCH WEDDING IS: 

Entrance of the bride • 

Hymn • The marriage • Prayers 

Hymn or psalm • Blessing 

Signing of the register • Recessional 

LICENSED VENUES 

Over the past few years since a change 

in the law some 2,000 venues 

throughout the country have become 

licensed to hold civil weddings. They range 

from hotels to stately homes, zoos to football 

clubs. You still have to give notice of your 

intention to marry in the same way as you do 

for register office weddings and, in the same 

way, you can personalise the ceremony to 

suit yourselves although no religious music 

is allowed. Though this option costs more 

than a register office ceremony - you will 

have to pay for the hire of the room and it 

costs more to have the registrar travel to you 

- it is becoming increasingly popular as the 

trend away from church weddings 

continues. 

The Ceremony 

church or civil 

Religious or civil, register office or one of the new approved 

venues, a wedding can take place on any day of the week 

between 8am and 6pm. While most still take place on Saturdays, 

Fridays are gaining in popularity allowing guests travelling a fair 

distance to make a long weekend of the celebrations. 

Church Weddings 

The Church of England welcomes couples 

who want to marry in church whatever 

their beliefs, whether or not they are 

christened and whether or not they are regular 

churchgoers, though same sex couples are 

currently limited to civil ceremonies. 

A marriage conducted in church will include 

asking for God’s guidance and blessing, 

adding a spiritual dimension to the ceremony 

which many couples find particularly special 

and moving. 

Your first step is to find a church, which need 

not necessarily be your local one, and arrange 

an appointment with the vicar so you can get 

to know him or her and complete some forms. 

The vicar will explain the church fees and the 

system of reading the banns. 

Banns are the public announcement of your 

marriage and legally must be called in church 

for three Sundays during the three months 

before the wedding. They have to be read in 

the parish where each of you lives and also 

in the church where you will marry, if this 

is different. 

Although the vows you make to each other in 

church are those which have been handed 

down through generations, you still have a 

huge amount of influence over the service. 

You can choose your hymns and music, 

readings and what prayers you would like 

and family and friends can contribute to the 

service. 

It’s important to establish early on what the 

church’s policy is on photographs or video 

being taken during the service, whether 

any secular music is allowed and on 

the throwing of confetti within the 

church grounds. 

Ask too about other couples marrying on 

the same day as it may be possible to share 

Marrying abroad 

Combining your wedding with the holiday of a lifetime is gaining in popularity with exotic destinations 

luring an increasing number of couples. The sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean, the Maldives and 

Bali are among the most popular choices and many tour operators now offer all-inclusive packages. 

The legal requirements for each country may differ but generally if a marriage is recognised as legally binding 

in the country in which it takes place, it will be recognised in the UK as well. Consult your tour operator and 

allow at least three months for all the paperwork to be properly processed. 

Second 

Marriages 

Though the Roman Catholic Church does 

not condone divorce, there are some 

circumstances in which the Church of 

England will marry divorced people, so it’s 

worth consulting your vicar. Even if you are 

limited to a civil ceremony, some ministers 

will offer a Service of Blessing afterwards. 

the cost of the church flowers. 

Religious services in churches outside the 

established Church of England require a 

licence from the authorised registrar of your 

area and will have different requirements, so 

see your priest or minister as early as possible. 

PHOTO BY 

AJ PHOTOGRAPHIC 




The Best Man 

If the bride is the star of the wedding show, the 

best man is the kingpin of a successful wedding 

day, so make sure your groom chooses him with 

care. However tempting it might be to choose the 

joker who’s the life and soul of every party, you’re 

far better off with someone who will take his 

responsibilities seriously, keep all the 

organisation under control and leave you to enjoy 

your day without any niggling worries about how 

many guests have been stranded at the church. 

The part that worries most best men is the 

speech, but that should be the least of their 

problems. The best man’s job, in a nutshell, is to 

support the groom both in the run-up to the 

wedding and on the day itself. 

Before the wedding, 

the best man should: 

• Make sure he keeps himself up to date with all the 

arrangements, liaising regularly with the groom and 

the bride’s family 

• Check the hiring, cleaning or collecting of suits for 

himself and the groom 

• Check the ordering of the flowers for the bride and 

her attendants, sprays for the two mothers and 

buttonholes for himself, the groom and other 

immediate members of the families 

• Check the printing and collection of order of service 

sheets and make sure that the ushers know what 

their duties are 

• Check arrangements for the first night and 

honeymoon are in place and that necessary 

passports and visas are in order 

• Organise the groom’s stag night - preferably some 

days in advance of the wedding - and make sure the 

groom gets home safely afterwards 

• Check the rings have been collected 

• Check the transport for the bridal party both to the 

ceremony and from there to the reception 

• Organise accommodation for the groom and 

himself the night before the wedding 

• He might also be asked to help with 

accommodation for guests and to liaise with 

live musicians or disco both before and during 

the reception. 

PHOTO BY 

RYAN GOOLD 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

On the day 

• Take the groom’s going away clothes to the 

reception venue 

• Check the service sheets are delivered to the church 

for the ushers to hand out to guests as they arrive 

• Make sure the groom arrives for the ceremony in 

good time 

• Hold the ring(s) until the appropriate moment in the 

ceremony when they should be handed to the 

groom or the minister 

• Pay all the church fees on the groom’s behalf before 

the ceremony 

• Sign the register as a witness to the marriage 

• Get the bridal party together for photographs 

• Make sure the ushers arrange lifts to the reception 

for any guests who need them 

• Escort the bride and groom to the bridal 

car and then escort the bridesmaids to 

the reception 

• Liaise with the toastmaster or, if there isn’t 

one, assume those duties himself - these 

include announcing the speeches and the 

cutting of the cake 

• Reply to the groom’s toast to the bridesmaids 

with a brief, polite and - if possible - funny 

speech before reading out the cards and 

telegrams 

• Announce the newlyweds’ departure from the 

reception and ensure they have all their tickets 

and luggage 

• Make sure all the guests have transport to their 

accommodation 

• Arrange for any wedding presents taken to the 

reception to be taken home 

• Take the groom’s wedding clothes from the 

reception and, if necessary, return hired suits. 

The speech 

When it comes to the speech, all the advice is: 

Resist the temptation to tell any juicy stories 

whatsoever from the couple’s past. The escapades 

may have been hilarious, but now is not the time for 

embarrassing reminders about past romances or 

past quarrels between the happy pair. 

Because the best man’s speech is generally 

regarded as the prime entertainment at the 

reception, getting it together can be a daunting 

prospect - but don’t panic. If you can tell jokes - 

clean ones, please - that’s fine, but a short, polite 

and sincere speech wishing the couple every 

happiness will fit the bill just as well. 

Unless you’re experienced at this sort of thing, write 

down exactly what you want to say and practise it. 

Don’t be tempted to wing it onthe day. 

The three essential parts of the speech are to 

thank the groom on behalf of the bridesmaids for 

his kind words about them, to read the cards and 

telegrams that have arrived and to announce the 

cutting of the cake. 

The chief bridesmaid 

The bride’s equivalent of a best man also needs to be chosen with care as it is she who will support the bride 

in the run-up to the ceremony and on the day itself. Though her duties aren’t as arduous as those of her male 

equivalent, they’re every bit as important in ensuring the bride has a worry-free day. 

THE CHIEF BRIDESMAID: 

• Arranges the hen night and 

make sure the bride gets 

home safely 

• Arranges for the bride’s going 

away outfit and honeymoon 

luggage to be taken to the 

reception venue 

• Helps the bride to dress for the 

ceremony 

• Makes sure the flowers and 

bouquets have arrived on 

schedule 

• Supervises the other 

bridesmaids and attendants and 

assembles 

them at the church ready for the 

arrival of the bride 

PHOTO BY 

AJ PHOTOGRAPHIC 

3 0 • D R E A M W E D D I N G S I N B R I S T O L , S O M E R S E T & W I L T S H I R E 

• Arranges the bride’s dress and 

veil before the 

procession down the aisle 

• Takes the bride’s bouquet at 

the start of the wedding 

service 

and carries it to the vestry 

ready to give back to the bride 

after the signing of the register 

• Keeps an eye on young 

attendants during 

the reception 

• Helps the bride change from 

her wedding dress into her 

going away outfit 

• Arranges for the wedding 

dress to be returned home 

THE USHERS 

Church weddings normally have three 

ushers who should arrive at the 

church about 40 minutes before the 

wedding is due to start. 

Their principal job is to hand out the order 

of service sheets to guests as they arrive 

and show them to their seats - friends and 

family of the bride on the left of the aisle, 

friends and family of the groom on 

the right. 

They should make sure one of them pays 

special attention to the groom’s parents and 

the bride’s mother as they arrive and 

escorts them to their places. 

They should also help the best man 

organise lifts to the reception for guests 

who may need them. 

cut out and keep


Who does what 

- and when... 

If you think military precision takes the fun out of a 

wedding, you’d be wrong. The essence of a trouble-free 

day is that everyone knows where they’re supposed 

to be and what they’re supposed to be doing. 

Your civil 

ceremony explained 

Gone are the days when a civil marriage was a 

hasty 15-minute affair, conducted in a small 

room at the register office. Nowadays many 

register offices have light, spacious ceremony 

rooms or suites accommodating reasonably large 

wedding parties and even a separate bride’s 

waiting room and garden for photographs. 

A large number of venues are now also licensed 

for civil ceremonies and the only major restriction 

is that no religious music or reading may be used. 

Otherwise, you may personalise your ceremony in 

terms of vows, readings, music, dedicating 

candles and lots more. The registrar will offer help 

and advice in planning your ceremony and will 

normally meet you a few weeks in advance to go 

over the format which could be: 

• Pre-arrival music 

• Entrance music 

• Welcome by the registrar 

• Reading 

• Legal declarations and vows 

• Promises and exchange of rings 

• Signing the register 

• Reading or music 

• Presentation of the certificate 

• Leaving music 

You can also have a ‘dual’ ceremony – after a 

short ceremony at the register office to fulfil the 

legal requirements, you can have a further 

ceremony of your choosing in front of family and 

friends on the beach or in a woodland glade, for 

instance. 

Most registrars will try to be as flexible as 

possible to accommodate individual requests 

and they will lead you through your declarations, 

vows and promises. 

The one thing you must do is agree all of your 

selections in advance to ensure they comply with 

the law. 

GOODBYE AND 

GOOD LUCK 

The bride and groom should always be 

the first to leave the reception. 

The best man announces their 

departure after they have changed into 

their going away clothes and, if the 

bride is going to throw her bouquet, 

she should do so just before she 

leaves for her honeymoon. 

At the Reception 

The formal receiving line at the reception should take 

the following order: 

Bride’s parents 

Groom’s parents 

Bride and Groom 

Chief bridesmaid 

and best man 

After the meal, the best man (or toastmaster, if you have 

one) introduces the speeches in the following order: 

The bride’s father (or an old family friend) always 

speaks first, welcoming the guests to the reception and 

his new son-in-law to the family. He will complement the 

bride and often thanks her mother for their many happy 

years together. He ends by proposing the toast to the 

bride and groom. 

The groom replies to his father-in-law’s toast, thanking 

him and the bride’s mother for their daughter, for their 

welcome into the family and for the reception (the 

wording can be discreetly changed here if the 

newlyweds and/or the groom’s parents have contributed 

to the expense). 

He thanks the guests for coming to celebrate the day 

and for the presents they have given. He thanks his best 

man and the bride’s attendants for the help they have 

given to the bride. He then proposes the toast to the 

bridesmaids. 

Now girl power is more firmly established, it is not 

uncommon now for the bride to say a few words 

and if she chooses to do so, she should speak after 

her new husband. This is a good opportunity for her 

to thank all the people who have helped her plan the 

big day, to thank her own parents for all their support 

Order of service 

The order of service is variable and your 

minister or priest will advise you. Often a 

hymn is sung after the bride’s procession, 

followed by readings and an address by the 

minister. 

The marriage itself follows. The minister asks: 

“Who giveth this woman to be married to this 

man?” and the bride’s father silently gives his 

daughter’s right hand to the minister, who passes 

it to the groom. 

The bride’s father takes his seat beside the bride’s 

mother. 

The vows are made and the best man may either 

pass the ring(s) to the groom or they may be 

placed on the minister’s prayer book before he 

passes them to the groom. 

Arrival at the 

church 

The ushers should arrive about 40 minutes before 

the ceremony is due to begin 

The groom and best man should arrive about 15 

minutes before the ceremony is due to begin 

The bridesmaids and attendants should arrive about 

five minutes before the ceremony is due to begin 

The bride’s mother should be the last to arrive before 

the bride - when she is shown to her seat that is a signal 

to the congregation that the wedding is about to start 

The bride will be met on her arrival at the church by the 

minister, who precedes the bride and her father down 

the aisle As the congregation rises, the groom and best 

man take their places at the chancel steps. The order of 

the bride’s procession is: Minister, Bride on her father’s 

right arm, Attendants. 

PHOTO BY 

WHITE DOVE 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

and to thank the groom’s parents for welcoming her 

into their family. 

Last of the speeches is always the best man, who 

replies to the groom’s toast to the bridesmaids, 

wishes the happy couple well, read the cards and 

telegrams and announces the cutting of the cake. 

Many weddings now include an evening dance or 

disco. Before it begins, the best man should make 

sure the bride and groom are ready to take the floor 

first, followed by the bride’s parents, the groom’s 

parents, the best man and chief bridesmaid. 

The best man then returns to his seat. 

After the ceremony, the minister leads the 

couple to the altar for prayers, possibly a hymn 

or psalm and a final blessing. The minister then 

leads the couple to the vestry to sign the register 

and they are usually joined by their parents, the 

best man and the chief bridesmaid. The signing 

of the register must be witnessed by two adults 

and it is at this point that the bride raises her veil. 

While this is taking place, the choir may sing or 

the organist play a piece of music. 

The bridal procession then leaves the church in 

the following order: 

Bride and groom 

Young attendants 

Chief bridesmaid with the best man 

Bride’s mother with the groom’s father 

Groom’s mother with the bride’s father. 

If you are having bells, they will peal out at 

this point. 

D R E A M W E D D I N G S I N B R I S T O L , S O M E R S E T & W I L T S H I R E • 3 1 

Planning Makes Perfect


Those all-important 

The Photographs 

If you’re anything like most brides, your 

wedding day will fly by all too quickly and the 

best way of reliving it in the months and years 

to come will be through your photographs. 

Though lots of your friends and family will take 

pictures on the day, it’s always a good idea to 

book a professional photographer for shots you 

can look back on with pleasure. 

Your choice of photographer should be based on 

whether you like the type of work he or she does. 

Visit a selection and ask to see examples of their 

work from recent weddings. See how the 

photographer has chosen his settings and make 

sure there’s a mixture of different types of shots. 

If the firm you visit employs several 

photographers, find out who has taken the 

pictures you like best and make sure you book 

that specific photographer for your day - and 

find out what happens if that photographer is 

suddenly not available. 

Discuss whether you want formally posed shots, 

or whether you would like the photographer to 

take informal pictures as they happen. Find out 

whether proofs will be available at the reception. 

Your photographer may well know the church 

and the reception venue you have chosen, but if 

he doesn’t, check he will visit both before the 

day so he can choose the best locations. 

Make sure you get a written quotation which 

specifies exactly how many 

photographs will be taken, at 

what points during the day and 

how much extra prints 

will cost. 

If you want photographs taken 

in the church, check that the 

priest is happy for this to 

happen and at what points 

during the service. 

details 

The 

Transport 

It’s lovely to have a luxury chauffeur-driven 

limousine to drive you to the ceremony - and it’s 

also a practical choice. You can be sure you’ll 

arrive on time and with all that room in the car, 

you won’t have to worry about your dress getting 

creased. 

Normally the best man drives the groom to the 

ceremony and then takes the car to the reception. 

But you will need transport for the bride’s mother 

and bridesmaids (who usually travel together) and 

for the bride and her father to the ceremony and 

for the principals from the ceremony to the 

reception. Whether you want a traditional Rolls 

The Cake 

Ideally your cake should be ordered at least 

three months before the wedding. Though 

the tradition is for a multi-tiered fruit cake, 

the rich variety of styles and designs now 

means you can have anything from 

profiteroles to a rich chocolate fudge. The 

only thing to remember is that it will have to 

be big enough to give everyone a slice at the 

The Video 

Much the same advice applies to choosing a videographer as to 

choosing a photographer. Make sure you see samples of recent work, 

make sure the videographer you get is the one whose work you like 

best. Again check with the priest first whether he is prepared to give 

permission for filming during the ceremony. 

PHOTO BY 

SIOBHAN AMY 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

Royce, a classic Daimler, a convertible Cadillac, 

a stretch limo or even a horse and carriage, 

contact a variety of companies in your area and 

ask to see the cars themselves, not just pictures of 

them. Some companies offer a service which 

includes flowers in the cars and a glass of 

champagne for the bride and groom on their way 

to the reception. 

Check exactly what’s included in the price and get 

a written quotation. 

reception and to send slices to absent 

friends. Traditionally the top tier of a wedding 

cake was kept for the christening of the first 

child - if you want to follow that tradition, 

you’ll have to opt for a cake that will last that 

long. Ask to see designs of wedding cake and 

find out whether bakers will create one to 

your own specifications. Try to match the 

style of cake to the style of your wedding - 

and remember that you can save money on 

the reception by choosing a wedding cake 

which will double as a dessert. If you 

do this, you might want to cut your 

cake early at the reception, so it can 

be cut up ready to serve at the 

appropriate time. You will need the 

cake to be delivered to the reception 

venue on the morning of the wedding 

- and don’t forget to check that the 

venue has a cake stand and knife you 

can use. 

The Flowers 

The cost of your flowers depends very much on the time of year, so if you want a huge display don’t 

choose the middle of winter when you’ll have to pay a fortune for sufficient blooms. Spring and 

early summer are when the biggest choice of blooms is available - it’s something of a myth that flowers 

are easy to come by in the height of summer - though at other times of year dramatic effects can be achieved 

with foliage. 

Your florist will help you match both the colours and the arrangement of your flowers to the style of the wedding, 

teasing out the shades of your bridesmaids’ dresses, matching the men’s buttonholes and styling the 

arrangements for both church and reception to help you create an atmosphere which may be country style, 

dreamily romantic, classically elegant or even based on a theme. 

PHOTO BY 

SIOBHAN AMY PHOTOGRAPHY 

3 2 • D R E A M W E D D I N G S I N B R I S T O L , S O M E R S E T & W I L T S H I R E 

cut out and keep


As this is likely to be the most expensive 

part of your wedding day, it’s important 

to set the standard early on in your 

planning. Popular venues get booked up 

well in advance, particularly on Saturdays during 

the peak wedding months so make sure of your 

choice by booking as early as you can. Do also 

make sure you confirm all the 

details with the venue in 

writing, paying particular 

attention to what is included in 

the price. 

Depending on your budget, you 

can have anything from a buffet 

catered for at home by family 

and friends to hiring outside 

caterers for a church or village 

hall to a formal sit-down meal at 

a hotel followed by an evening 

dance. 

A sit-down meal is obviously the 

most expensive option, but there 

are all sorts of alternatives from 

drinks and canapes to a buffet or 

even a barbecue. Whichever you 

choose, do make sure there are 

plenty of chairs for people to sit 

down while they’re eating - standing up balancing a 

drink and a plate while trying to eat is virtually never 

comfortable for guests. 

If you choose a hotel, do try to eat there and sample 

the food before making your booking. Check such 

details as corkage, parking space and whether the 

hotel will offer a cake stand and knife and a room for 

the bride and groom to change into their going away 

outfits. Many hotels offer a package which includes 

the services of a toastmaster and a complimentary 

room for the first night of the honeymoon. Once you 

have chosen your venue, confirm in writing what you 

understand is included in the price. 

Drinks for your guests will take up a large 

part of your budget. It’s reasonable to 

assume each will drink one or two glasses 

on arrival at the reception, three or four 

glasses with their meal and another glass 

with the toasts. 

A right royal reception 

Whether it’s a small buffet for a few close family and friends or a lavish do at the 

smartest of venues, your reception is the big celebration of your wedding - a 

chance for people to share your happiness and an opportunity for you to thank 

them for their presents and for coming to see you married. 

Though champagne is the traditional 

wedding drink, you can offer sherry, 

Pimms or Bucks Fizz on arrival and wine 

with the meal, saving the champagne - or, 

indeed a good sparkling wine - for the 

toasts. For reference, you will get between 

Chief bridesmaid 

10 and 12 glasses of sherry to each bottle and 

between six and eight glasses of wine or champagne 

per bottle. Do remember to provide plenty of soft 

drinks for children and adults who prefer them or 

who may be driving. Allow between half and one 

litre per person. 

There can be a long break between ceremony and 

reception while photographs are being taken and 

some couples are now offering a glass of sherry 

outside the church and perhaps live music to 

entertain guests as they arrive at the reception. 

The usual order of events at the reception is: 

The receiving line 

The meal 

Speeches and toasts 

Cutting of the cake (though some couples prefer to 

do this before the speeches to allow it to be cut and 

served) 

Top Table Seating Plan 

Groom’s father 

Bride’s mother 

Groom 

Bride 

Departure of bride and groom 

If you are having a sit-down meal, it is essential to 

have a seating plan. Try to put together tables of 

people who you think will get on well together. The 

top table seating plan for a sit-down meal is shown 

below. 


Bride’s father 

Groom’s mother 

Best Man 

Don’t feel hidebound by what you think a traditional 

wedding breakfast should 

consists of - nowadays anything 

goes, from bangers and mash 

and jam roly-poly to pasta with 

wedding cake for dessert. It’s 

also worth remembering you 

may need to cater for 

vegetarians or guests on special 

diets. 

Do give considerable thought to 

the room and table decorations 

and the lighting at your 

reception. Flowers should match 

the theme colours of the 

wedding and a little money spent 

on atmospheric lighting can 

make an enormous difference. 

Favours for guests range from 

the traditional small baskets of 

sugared almonds or fortune 

cookies to little books of love poems. 

Crackers and balloons always help create an 

atmosphere and many couple now put a disposable 

camera on each table, so guests can record for you 

the parts of your reception that you missed on the 

day! 

If you are having a number of small children at your 

wedding, it’s worth giving some thought as to 

whether you can organise a creche - both to stop 

the youngsters getting bored and to give their 

parents a chance to enjoy themselves without 

worrying about what their offspring are up to. 

WHATEVER THE SIZE OF 

YOUR RECEPTION, it’s always nice to 

have a formal or semi-formal receiving 

line to welcome your guests. This 

ensures that you get the chance to 

meet everybody and accept their 

congratulations. 

The bride’s parents, as the hosts are 

usually first in the receiving line, 

followed by the groom’s parents, the 

bride and groom and then the 

bridesmaids and attendants. 

D R E A M W E D D I N G S I N B R I S T O L , S O M E R S E T & W I L T S H I R E • 3 3 

Planning Makes Perfect

11am - 3pm, unless specified 

FREE BUCKS FIZZ • FREE GIFT BAGS • FREE ADMISSION 

Bristol Zoo CHRISTMAS Special 

Clifton Pavilion, Bristol 

6th December 

The Grand Hotel 

Broad Street, Bristol 

3rd January 

The Castle Hotel New Year Special 

Castle Green, Taunton 

10th January 

Farrington Park 

Farrington Gurney, Somerset 

17th January 

Tithe Barn Dunster 

Priory Green, Dunster, 

Somerset 

24th January 

Charlton House Somerset 

Shepton Mallet, Near Glastonbury, 

Somerset 

31st January 

Cheltenham Park Hotel 

Cirencester Road, Charlton Kings, 

Cheltenham 

7th February 

Sudeley Castle, 

Valentines Day Special 

Winchcombe, Nr Cheltenham, 

Gloucestershire 

14th February 

Cotswold Water Park Hotel 

Lake 6, Spine Road East, South Cerney, 

Gloucestershire 

21st February 

Tortworth Court Gloucestershire 

Tortworth, Wotton-under-Edge 

Near Bristol 

28th February 

The Bishops Palace 

Wells, Somerset 

13th March 

M-Shed Bristol 

Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol 

20th March 

Hatton Court Gloucester 

Upton Hill, Upton St Leonards 

Gloucester 

3rd April 

Bristol Golf Club 

Almondsbury, Bristol 

10th April 

Bristol Zoo SUMMER Special 

Clifton Pavilion, Bristol 

5th June 

For more information about all other events, please visit:


My fair lady... 

Whatever stage you’re at with your wedding preparations, 

whether you’re just looking for general inspiration or you only 

have a few details to finalise, there’s always something to take 

away from weddings fairs – there may even be a goody bag! 

Wedding fairs are designed to give you ideas, help you meet a variety of 

suppliers, tour a venue, listen to live music that could potentially play at 

your wedding, meet bridalwear specialists and generally get you excited 

in preparation for your big day – possibly all with a glass of bubbly in 

your hand. 

You’ll often find suppliers will offer special discounts to brides attending the 

show, and even if you just pick up some leaflets and watch the fashion 

shows, you’ll be caught up in the bubble of excitement generated by scores 

of brides-to-be all together in one room. Enjoy! 


For a round-up of Spring wedding fairs near 

you, see Dates for your Diary on p56 


Our Wedding Shows... 

03/01/16, Chiseldon House, 12noon to 4pm 

10/01/16, Lydiard House Conference Centre, 11am to 3pm 

10/01/16, The Crown of Crucis, 11am to 3pm 

17/01/16, White Horse Country Park, 12noon to 4pm 

24/01/16, Marsh Farm Hotel, 11am to 3pm 

31/01/16, Swindon Marriott Hotel, 11am to 3pm 

07/02/16, Wrag Barn, 11am to 3pm 

07/02/16, Wellington Barn, 11am to 3pm 

21/02/16, Village Urban Resort, 11am to 3pm 

21/02/16, Ingleside House, 12noon to 4pm 

Tel: 01793 238921 

e: hello@whitewed.co.uk • www.whitewed.directory 


All Occasions 

Vintage Wedding Car Hire 

A selection of spacious 

chauffeur driven cars 

Making your day extra special! 

▼ ALL OCCASIONS VINTAGE CAR HIRE 

337 North Road, Yate, Bristol BS37 7LJ 

Tel: 01454 228192 

Mobile: 07909 646847 

Email: info@all-occasions-home.co.uk 

www.all-occasions-home.co.uk 

Choose your wedding transport from the head-turning fleet of genuine 

vintage and classic cars lovingly restored and maintained in pristine 

condition by Nick and Karen Quinlan of All Occasions vintage car hire 

in Bristol. They offer four stunning cars from the Twenties and Thirties for 

the bride and her entourage, plus a 1968 Ford Mustang to make sure the 

groom arrives in style too. All of the cars come with a professional chauffeur 

service and ribbons to match your bridal colours. 

For more details, call 01454 228192 or 07909 646847 or visit 

www.all-occasions-home.co.uk. 

Making an 

entrance... 

C A R S O F C L A S S 

▼ CARS OF CLASS 

Agrand occasion needs to be approached in grand style - and there’s 

no more luxurious wedding transport than a British classic Rolls 

Royce. Taunton-based Cars of Class offers two immaculate Rolls 

Royces, two stunning Mercedes and a stylish Jaguar to choose from for 

your wedding transport. 

Contact them to see how they can add those finishing touches to make 

your wedding transport as individual as you are. 

For details, call 01823 480898 or visit the website at 

www.carsofclass.co.uk. 


▼ Swan Hotel, Wells 

PHOTO BY 

ERIC PURCHASE 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

Nestling in the shadow of Wells Cathedral, the Best Western Plus Swan 

Hotel prides itself on providing the perfect wedding venue in Somerset, 

whether it’s an intimate wedding, a large formal reception or the civil 

wedding ceremony itself. 

Civil ceremonies are held 

in the light and airy 

Garden Room, a 

delightful room which 

lends itself beautifully to 

the occasion and opens 

out onto a secluded 

private walled garden. 

The Oak Room, located 

on the ground floor, has 

its own reception and bar 

area and seats up to 90 guests for a wedding breakfast. Evening functions for 

up to 150 guests can be catered for by hiring the interconnecting Garden 

Room. 

At the front of the hotel, Swan Terrace provides a unique opportunity to 

capture Wells Cathedral as a stunning backdrop for wedding photographs. 

Luxurious Honeymoon Suite 

The beautiful Cathedral Suite offers unrivalled panoramic views of Wells 

Cathedral. The sumptuous and spacious bedroom, sitting room and 

bathroom are furnished with gilded French furniture, fabulous silk curtains 

and an eclectic mix of antiques. Guests enjoy a complimentary bottle of 

Champagne, chocolates and fresh flowers in the suite on arrival. 

To arrange a viewing, contact the hotel on 01749 836300 or visit 

the website at www.swanhotelwells.co.uk. 


▼ Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel, near Cirencester 

dreamvenues 

▼ Dillington House, Ilminster 

With no fewer than 

seven beautiful 

rooms licensed for 

civil ceremonies and two 

glorious suites for wedding 

receptions, the lovely 

Cotswold Water Park Four 

Pillars Hotel makes the 

perfect venue for your 

wedding and/or reception. 

Conveniently situated in the 

heart of the Cotswolds, yet 

close to Bristol and easily 

accessed from both M4 and 

M5 motorways, this luxury 

four star hotel combines a beautiful setting and 

spectacular views with state-of-the-art facilities. 

All of the ceremony rooms have floor-to-ceiling 

windows overlooking the lake and both suites – 

which accommodate up to 200 and up to 360 

people respectively – also have spectacular views 

over the lake. 

There are also rooms perfect for more intimate 

weddings – and grand, formal events for up to 500 

people can be accommodated in a marquee. 

Expert chefs have devised a mouth-watering 

selection of dishes using only the finest ingredients 

– but will also be happy to cater for special 

requests if you want particular favourites included 

on your menu. 

From the moment of your first enquiry to the end 

of your special day you will 

have the personal attention of 

an experienced wedding coordinator, 

who will offer all 

the help and advice you need. 

And with 328 luxurious 

bedrooms and suites, 

find out about special 

accommodation rates for 

your guests. 

For more details, call 01285 

864000 or visit the website 

at www.cotswoldwaterpark 

hotel.co.uk. 

PS: Don’t forget to ask 

about their seasonal wedding 

packages. 

Dillington is one of the most beautiful, historic 

houses in Somerset, dating back to the 

Elizabethan era and set in stunning parkland. 

Exclusively yours, it has elegant reception rooms 

and a choice of rooms for a civil ceremony: the 

romantic, light filled Orangery with the option of a 

part outdoor ceremony; the grand Hanning Room, 

or the Theatre in the magnificent 1870s Mews 

Building. 

Dillington can seat up to 150 guests for your 

ceremony and wedding breakfast with capacity for 

up to 200 guests for the evening reception. 

Up to 78 adult guests can be accommodated 

overnight either in the house itself, in the 

magnificent Mews or the award-winning Hyde 

Building. 


A dedicated wedding planner and the friendly 

Dillington team will help you plan every aspect of 

your wedding day and you can either opt for a 

bespoke exclusive use wedding or the all-inclusive 

package which is available for Mondays to 

Thursdays. 

For details, call 01460 258 648 or visit 

www.dillington.com. 

Bristol Register Office 

Weddings, Civil Partnerships, 

Renewal of Vows and Naming Ceremonies 

Open Monday - Friday 9 am - 4 pm 

Wednesdays 10 am - 4 pm 

Saturday mornings by appointment only 

The Old Council House, Bristol BS1 1JG • Tel: 0117 922 2800 

For a full list list of our 

licensed venues visit 

www.bristol.gov.uk 



ASHTON COURT 

Live the dream 

at Ashton 

Court Mansion 

With spectacular packages 

starting from under £5,000 

and including drinks, 

a three-course wedding breakfast, venue 

decoration, an evening buffet and 

disco, Ashton Court Mansion provides 

a glorious setting for your wedding at 

a dream price. 

The 16th century mansion, with its 

Gothic stonework and Georgian 

panelling, sits in 860 acres of beautiful 

parkland a short distance from the 

Clifton Suspension Bridge and Bristol 

city centre. 

Licensed for civil ceremonies, it 

specialises in weddings of all styles and 

sizes and has a choice of rooms 

accommodating from 40 to 400 guests. 

All are south facing and gloriously 

sunny, from the Music Room which has 

spectacular views and opens directly 

into the gardens, to the pretty Georgian 

Panelled Lounges and the light and airy 

Great Hall. 

Enjoy the glorious garden setting, 

watch the summer sun go down over 

the city and linger over a sizzling 

barbecue. Or choose a winter date 

when the halls are already decked with 

holly and ivy. 

‘Every wedding at Ashton Court 

is different,’ says co-ordinator Jodi 

Bryce. 

‘We know that it’s the personal 

touches that make your day unique 

and the whole team is dedicated to 

making it a truly magical and 

unforgettable experience.’ 

There are wedding packages to 

choose from, but the team is happy to 

create a bespoke event, just for you. 

There’s even the option, for couples 

who have married abroad, to hold an 

evening party here on their return, 

with prices from just £30 per head. 

For more information, call 0117 

963 3438 or visit the website 

at www.ashtoncourtmansion.co.uk 

or www.bristol.gov.uk/nav/ashtoncourt-mansion. 

All You Need 

Is Love... 

This 16th century manor house is nestled in 860 

acres of glorious parkland, with roaming deer. 

An iconic wedding venue with fantastic 

photography backdrops to capture your day. 

The mansion can be hired for ceremonies, 

wedding breakfasts or for an evening 

reception, offering versatility from 

40 - 400 guests. 

All weddings at Ashton Court Mansion 

are exclusive. 

Tel: 0117 963 3438 

www.ashtoncourtmansion.co.uk 


Marquee Hire... 

...For occasions to remember! 

Furniture • Matting • Lining • Starlight Linings • 

Lighting • Dance Floors ...and much much more! 

Nettwood Farm, Smitham's Hill, 

East Harptree, Bristol BS40 6DA 

Tel: 01761 221366 or 0117 904 7806 

www.jgmarquees.co.uk 

Tel: 0117 966 9990 

www.enchantedweddingdecor.co.uk 

GIVE YOUR WEDDING 

THE WOW FACTOR! 

• Balloon & Flower Decorations 

• Chair cover and sash hire 

• Starlight Backdrop hire 

• Ceiling Drapery 

• Candy Buffet 

• Table centrepieces for hire 

• Stationery & favours 

SHOP 71, SANDY PARK ROAD, 

BRISLINGTON BS4 3PQ 

PICTURED: STYLING BY MULBERRY WEDDINGS & EVENTS, 

PHOTOS BY DANIEL SPRACKMAN PHOTOGRAPHY 

Adding the 

BEAUTIFULLY STYLED & PERFECTLY PLANNED 

Bespoke Venue Styling and Decoration Hire 

Wedding Planning, Design & Co-ordinaton 

Lorna Bell at Mulberry Weddings & Events will help you put together 

your dream wedding, ensuring you have a perfect, stress-free day. 

Using her creativity and experience, she offers a bespoke package 

of services, including venue styling, tailored to help you with as 

much or as little of the planning and co-ordination as you require. 

For details, call 01454 419284 or visit 

www.mulberryweddingsandevents.co.uk. 

For more 

information 

and to book 

your FREE 

initial consultation 

please contact us: 

Tel: 01454 419284 / 07884 588221 

hello@mulberryweddingsandevents.co.uk 

www.mulberryweddingsandevents.co.uk 

FIND 

US ON: 



Looking for wedding inspiration? 

Whether your wedding theme is 

romantic vintage florals, rustic 

Hessian and twine, pristine 

white elegance or seaside fun 

and games, your theme and colour 

choice set the tone for your whole day. 

And the choice is limited only by your 

imagination. If you know what you 

want, but have no idea how to get it, 

venue stylists will help you transform 

any venue into a magical space for your 

reception – and, if you have no clear 

ideas, they will spend time getting to 

know you and your individual style 

before offering a range of ideas that will 

have you walking on air. 

Wow! factor 

PHOTO BY 

RYAN GOOLD 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

Acomplete venue decoration service, 

incorporating everything from balloons 

and flowers to stationery, chair cover hire 

to a candy buffet and all manner of special 

touches from starlight backdrops to ceiling 

draping, candelabras and ostrich feathers to 

wishing well hire: Enchanted Weddings offers a 

personal and completely flexible service. 

Run by the appropriately-named Carollyn Magic, the 

Bristol-based company can transform your venue, 

working with you to create a personal and unique 

atmosphere. 

Carollyn said: ‘We know that the small things make 

a big difference, so our attention to detail is second 

to none. ‘We will meet you at the venue or at 

our home office, when we can discuss your 

requirements and you can browse through 

our portfolio. 

‘We can do as much or as little decoration as you 

choose and on the day itself, we’ll ensure that all the 

decorating is picture perfect, so you can relax 

and enjoy yourself.’ Enchanted Weddings also 

specialises in Asian wedding decor. 

For more information, call 0117 966 9990 

or visit the website at 

www.enchantedweddingdecor.co.uk. 

There’s a lot to be said for hiring 

a wedding planner – and don’t 

think it’s necessarily the 

expensive option. A good planner 

will have a range of contacts, will 

often be able to negotiate 

discounts to at least cover the 

fees and will take the 

organisational stress and strain 

off your shoulders, while still 

leaving you with all those exciting 

decisions to make. 

She’ll know how to make the 

most of your budget and will 

work within it - and she’ll ensure 

everything on the day runs like 

clockwork! 



MASSIVE 

DESIGNER 

WEDDING 

DRESS SALE 

Plymouth Guildhall 

Sunday February 

7th 2016 

10am to 4pm 

SAV VE UP TO 70% 

OFF RRP 

NOT TO BE MISSED! 

BIGGEST WEDDING 

DRESS SALE IN 

THE SOUTH WEST 

dream 

W 

Changing rooms available ailable • Entry 

£2 

EDDINGS 

For more details contact 01626 873364 find us on 


magazine Plymouth Guildhall, Royal Parade, Plymouth PL1 2AA 


Dillington 

House 

Tel: 01460 258648 

Dillington House, Ilminster Somerset TA19 9D 

www.dillington.com 

The perfect setting for 

your wedding celebrations 

This beautiful 

historic house, is set 

in stunning 

parkland, and offers 

a wonderful 

backdrop for 

photographs with its 

lovely grounds, 

magical woodlands, 

romantic orangery 

and fountain. 

• Licensed for civil ceremonies 

• Weddings up to 140 

• Evening receptions up to 200 

• Dedicated wedding planner 

• All inclusive weekday packages available 

• Gorgeous accommodation for up to 78 guests 


Skip to the 

loo, my darling 

Ideal for marquee and home 

based weddings, Temporary 

Toilets supply clean and 

comfortable luxury lavatories, 

ensuring that the facilities will be 

in keeping with the rest of your 

special day. They take care to 

ensure that their units are 

prepared to a high standard and 

their wide range ensures that 

your requirements can be met 

no matter whether your wedding 

is a large affair or small and intimate. 

Director Rob Beale said: ‘As part of a family business, established over 25 

years ago, you are in safe hands. 

‘We provide a prompt and courteous service ensuring that your facilities are 

on site and set up in good time. We will usually conduct a pre-hire site 

inspection to ascertain the most 

suitable location for the unit 

based on both access and 

convenience.’ 

The Ladies’ section of the 16ft 

unit includes a full length mirror 

and three separate cubicles, all 

with porcelain WCs, and a builtin 

CD player allows you to select 


any music of your choice. 

All units include the following: 

• Soft toilet tissue 

• Hot and cold water 

• Hand soap and paper towels 

• Fresh flowers 

• Vanity basket option 

• Waste bin in each cubicle 

• Warm air heaters 

With Temporary Toilets you can be sure that the essentials are taken care of 

in style. 

For more information, call 01747 871464 or visit the website at 

www.temporarytoilets.co.uk. 


▼ Leigh Court, Abbots Leigh 

dreamvenues 

▼ Kingswood, Bath 

With magnificent views over the city, Kingswood 

venues are among Bath’s best kept secrets – 

and you can have exclusive use of this tranquil, 

completely private setting for your wedding reception. 

Smaller celebrations for 60 to 100 guests choose the 

pretty Georgian Summerhill House, where the wedding 

breakfast is served in the Lower Hall and the Upper 

Gallery opened for dancing afterwards. 

For larger gatherings of up to 160 people there’s the 

beautiful Gothic dining hall, with its wood panelling 

and stained glass windows. 

Leigh Court is a magnificent Grade II* listed 

mansion house set in 25 acres of private 

parkland in Abbots Leigh, Bristol. With 19th 

century heritage and traditional Palladian 

architecture, the venue provides a stunning 

backdrop to your wedding day. 

Leigh Court prides itself on exceptional customer 

service; the experienced events team will create a 

special day that is personal to you. Whether you're 

looking for an informal festival-style day on the 

lawns, or a formal 

evening dinner in an 

ornate, elegant suite, the 

team will create the 

wedding of your dreams. 

This stunning venue 

offers a variety of both 

large and intimate suites 

that can be used for 

ceremonies, receptions 

and evening parties. 

Award-winning in-house 

caterers, Berry Blue, will 

create a wedding menu 

from fresh, locally sourced and seasonal produce 

that will delight and impress your wedding party. 

Leigh Court provides truly affordable luxury: a 

variety of wedding packages are available that can 

be adapted for any budget and style. In the heart of 

the West Country, Leigh Court is within easy reach 

of the M4 and M5 motorways, with ample free 

parking. 

To find out more or to book a venue tour, call 0844 

704 8658 or visit www.leighcourt.co.uk. 


A professional team of caterers and an extensive 

range of menus, mean many different tastes and 

requirements can easily be accommodated. 

Your guests can enjoy drinks on the beautiful terrace or 

take a stroll around the extensive grounds, admiring the 

breathtaking views of the city, while you have your 

photographs taken against the stunning backdrops. 

Kingswood has a licence for serving alcohol, but, if you 

choose, you can provide your own table wine, which 

they will serve for a corkage fee and a cash bar can be 

provided for the evening. 

With exclusive use for your special day, you can truly 

make Kingswood your own, enabling you to have the 

most magical and memorable day. 

For more details, call 01225 734340 or email 

catering@kingswood.bath.sch.uk. 

The World Heritage City of 

Bath is the perfect setting 

to celebrate the most 

important day of your life. 

Our Registration Team will help you create a beautiful and 

meaningful ceremony to help you celebrate your special day. 

For all enquires please call 01225 477234 or 

e-mail: register_office@bathnes.gov.uk • www.bathweddings.co.uk 


The Grand 

Hotel 

A luxurious Victorian hotel in the heart of the city 

Packages from £3,500 for 

50 people. Licensed for 

civil ceremonies 

Broad Street, 

Bristol BS1 2EL 

Tel: 0117 930 3322 

www.thehotelcollection.co.uk 

thegrandevents@thehotelcollection.co.uk 

Exclusively yours 

A stunning location in Lansdown, 

with beautiful views over the city of Bath. 

* Our large outdoor terraces and gardens provide 

the perfect extension to your wedding reception. 

* First class food, fine wines, beautiful period settings. 

* Wedding Coordinator on site to help with all arrangements. 

For more information and a 

wedding brochure please contact: 

Catering Manager & Wedding Coordinator, Sharon Traylor 

T: 01225 734340/430 or 

email: catering@kingswood.bath.sch.uk 

www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk 


Gants Mill Weddings 

Romance in a Secluded and Historic Riverside Setting 

G 

ants Mill is the perfect romantic venue for your exclusive country wedding, 

where you can be confident of an enchanting and memorable day. 

We have a licence to hold civil ceremonies, and as a family concern we are 

committed to making your day relaxing and enjoyable. 

We do not charge corkage and you can choose your own caterers. 

Contact us to make a viewing appointment as we would love to show you 

romantic Gants Mill. 

Contact Greg Beedle at: 

Gants Mill Weddings 

Gants Mill & Garden 

Bruton, Somerset BA10 0DB 

Tel: 07854 166624 

Email: weddings@gantsmill.co.uk 

Website: www.gantsmill.co.uk 


▼ Arnos Vale, Bristol 

One of Bristol’s best kept secrets, Arnos Vale, is a tranquil, unique and beautiful 

site located close to the centre of Bristol. It is a registered charity and a slice 

of living history as well as being home to two gorgeous Grade II* listed 

chapels and 45 acres of woodland full of British wildlife. 

Recently licensed for civil ceremonies and 

Church of England wedding ceremonies, 

Arnos Vale offers a variety of options when it 

comes to weddings: a traditional church 

wedding in a beautiful chapel, a civil 

ceremony in the elegant Spielman Centre or a 

civil ceremony in the new woodlands area, the 

Underwood Centre. 

Arnos Vale is also licensed for music and 

entertainment so you can hold just your 

ceremony there or the ceremony, reception 

and evening party. 

The onsite catering company is the highly 

acclaimed Whisk! and they cater for all events 

and celebrations at Arnos Vale. Not only can 

you mix and match the venues at Arnos Vale 

to suit your own style and celebrations, but 

Whisk! will work with you to come up with the perfect menu – whether that is a 

formal seated reception or a rustic feast in the woodlands. 

For more information contact Sarah Pavey on 0117 971 9117 or email 

sarah.pavey@arnosvale.org.uk. 


▼ The Avon Gorge Hotel, Bristol 

dreamvenues 

▼ Farrington Park,Farrington Gurney 

Book your big day at The Avon Gorge Hotel 

and be prepared to take in the magnificent 

views of Brunel’s famous suspension 

bridge and the Avon Gorge as it spans for miles 

beneath you. 

The hotel is situated in the fashionable district of 

Clifton, a beautiful and quintessentially British 

suburb of Bristol renowned for having some of 

the most iconic spots in the city. 

The Avon Gorge Hotel has been offering 

wedding packages for a number of years, and 

hundreds of couples each year take advantage of 

its excellent facilities and panoramic views, 

providing the perfect backdrop for any bride 

and groom. 

With a dedicated team on hand to style your 

wedding, your way, your big day can be as 

bespoke or traditional as you like, and will 

always be impeccably tailored to suit individual 

tastes, budget and number of guests. No detail will 

be spared! 

The hotel offers six different wedding packages, 

from £2,995 for a bronze package to £5,995 for a 

platinum package, as well as a midweek option that 

starts from £2,595. 

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding 

where in this grand hotel to have 

your wedding, with a choice of 

several spaces - including the 

Riverside Suite and the Clifton 

Suite which both overlook the 

Avon Gorge. 

If that isn’t enough, the hotel comes 

with a large terrace overlooking the 

bridge and gorge, providing the 

perfect spot for an alfresco cliff top 

reception – weather permitting of 

course! 

For more information, 

call 0117 973 8955 or 

visit the website at 

www.theavongorge.com/ 

weddings/yourday. 

It’s the perfect place to celebrate: Farrington 

Park’s beautiful and peaceful rural location, in 

the heart of the Somerset countryside, lends 

itself to memorable wedding photographs with 

amazing views across the former Duchy of 

Cornwall estate. 

They can hold civil ceremonies, wedding 

breakfasts and evening receptions in either of 

two function suites. 

The recently refurbished Montgomerie Suite, with 

panoramic views of the surrounding countryside 

and its own private balcony, leads down to an 

exclusive use wedding garden with ample seating 

and subtle lighting for evening. It can seat up to 90 

guests for the wedding breakfast and up to 170 

people for the evening celebrations. 


Or choose the King Charles Hall, set with its own 

beautiful entrance of green oak, this very 

intimate room has exposed rustic oak beams 

and oak flooring and is licensed for civil wedding 

ceremonies for up to 60 guests. 

An experienced team, led by a dedicated 

wedding co-ordinator, will help you tailor the day 

to suit your requirements. And there’s the added 

advantage of ample parking for you and 

your guests. 

For more information, call 01761 451596 or 

visit the website at www.farringtonpark.co.uk. 

Weston Super Mare 

Register office 

Choice of ceremony rooms Courtyard garden for photographs 

Bookings can be made a year in advance 

Town Hall, Walliscote Grove Road, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 1UJ 

Tel: 01934 427552 • www.n-somerset.gov.uk 


The Royal Hotel 

PHOTO BY 

EVE DUNLOP 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

Our Bimbeck Suite, with its sweeping bay 

windows, boasts idyllic sea views across 

Weston Bay and our extensive lawns, making 

it the perfect setting for your special day 

We hold a Civil Wedding & Civil 

Partnership licence, enabling you to 

simplify your arrangements, by holding 

all aspects of your special day in one ven 

Midweek All Inclusive Weddings 

now available for only £1995 

Every wedding is inclusive of: 

Red carpet arrival 

Table linen 

Coloured napkins 

Table scatter crystals 

Dressed top table & cake table 

Cake stand and cake knife hire 

Ambient lighting 

Master of ceremonies 

Background music 

Private lounge and bar area 

Preferential accommodation rates 

Complimentary Bridal suite 

1 South Parade, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset BS23 1JP 01934 423100 

reservations@royalhotelweston.com • www.royalhotelweston.com 

Every one 

a winner 

With its bold colours, spectacular decorations, out-of-this-world 

performances and brightly painted faces, last year’s Bristol and 

Somerset Wedding Awards evening was a sight to behold. While 

the spectacle, quality of entertainment, and fine dining created an 

evening that none of the guests would forget, they were not the sole reason for 

each person to be there; that was for the awards themselves, presented to the 

cream of the region’s wedding industry for the second successive year. 

This is the only ceremony to celebrate the region’s wedding industry; there are 

numerous awards around the country, and now Bristol and Somerset has one 

of its own. 

The awards are organised and judged by a team of just five people, who work 

solidly throughout the year to make the event an evening to remember. They 

are free to enter, and open to any wedding supplier with a registered address 

in the BS, BA, TA, GL8/9/12/13, and SN10/12/13/14 postcodes. 

Entering couldn’t be easier. Suppliers can nominate themselves or newlyweds 

who have been astounded by the services they have received can nominate 

their favourite suppliers. 

Once a supplier has been nominated, they should let their couples know so 

they can vote, because the finalists and winners are based on brides’ votes 

every bit as much as on the judges’ views. 

Voting for the 2016 awards is now open and all entrants will receive feedback 

from their couples. 

The Bristol and Somerset Wedding Awards ceremony will be held at The Bristol 

Hotel, Bristol, on Friday, 26th February 2016 and while the next event’s theme 

is a closely guarded secret, previous evenings have boasted the glamour of 

Cirque de Soleil and a shimmering Winter Wonderland. 

The Wedding Wishing Well Foundation 

Next year’s ceremony will once again 

support The Wedding Wishing Well 

Foundation, a charity that funds and 

organises weddings for couples affected 

by terminal and life-limiting illnesses. To 

date the Bristol and Somerset Wedding 

Awards have raised a fantastic £5,000 for 

the charity. 

To find out more, view images from 

previous events, enter yourself or 

nominate another, vote for your favourite 

wedding supplier or buy tickets for the 

PHOTO BY EVE DUNLOP 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

award ceremony, visit www.bristolandsomersetweddingawards.co.uk. 


Light up the night! 

Astunning firework display can 

provide a magical end to your 

perfect day – and you can either 

go the whole hog and employ 

professional firework experts or 

ask them to put together a special DIY pack 

for you. The sky is literally the limit when it 

comes to fireworks – you can have displays 

set to music, displays in your bridal colours, 

fabulous special effects from hearts and 

flowers to your names in lights. It makes 

sense to employ a professional company – 

they will custom-design a display uniquely for 

you and be acutely safety-conscious, 

something your best man might not be after 

celebrating all day. 

Celebration Pyrotechnics has over 15 years 

experience in creating individual displays 

for events and celebrations throughout the 

region. They offer a free site inspection to 

advise on the suitability of the venue and all 

safety issues and to discuss your individual 

requirements. 

Call 01208 78790 or visit 

www.celebrationpyro.com 

R E G I S T E R O F F I C E 

There is a choice of three rooms where marriages and civil partnership ceremonies 

can be performed. 

A specially-designed attractive photography area has been set up within the 

gardens. We cater for wedding parties up to 60 Monday to Saturday. 

Swindon Register Office, 

Civic Offices, Euclid Street, Swindon SN1 2JH 

Tel: 01793 521734 • www.swindon.gov.uk 


index to advertisers 

BRIDAL FASHION 

Abbi Chapel Bridal...........................16 

A Class Brides ................................IFC 

Bride at Home..................................15 

Clifton Brides..............................12/13 

Future Brides ...................................15 

Lisa Keating Bridal...........................14 

So Gorgeous ...................................16 

Special Day & Appletons.................17 

White Lace & Promises...................14 

CAKES 

The Bath Cake Company .................22 

Cakes by Elan ..................................22 

Carefree Cakes.................................22 

FIREWORKS 

Celebration Pyrotechnics.................54 

FLOWERS 

Kimberley’s the Florist.....................20 

Please mention Dream Weddings magazine when replying to advertisements 

Check out our great website www.dream-weddings-magazine.co.uk 

FOLLOW 

US ON: 

NOVEMBER 8: Best Western Shrubbery Hotel, Station 

Road, Ilminster (10am to 4pm, contact 01460 52108 

or www.shrubberyhotel.com) 

NOVEMBER 8: Mercure Bristol North The Grange, 

Winterbourne (11am to 3pm, contact 01454 771423) 

NOVEMBER 19: Rookery Manor, Edingworth (4.30pm 

to 9pm, contact 01934 750200 or www.rookerymanor.co.uk) 

DECEMBER 6: Clifton Pavilion, Bristol Zoo (11am to 

3pm, contact www.loveactuallyweddings.co.uk) 

JANUARY 3: Double Tree by Hilton, Congresbury 

(11am to 3pm, contact 01934 834343) 

JANUARY 3: Chiseldon House, Chiseldon (12 to 4pm, 

contact 01793 238921 or 

www.whitewed.directory) 

JANUARY 3: Grand Hotel, Broad Street, Bristol (11am 

to 3pm, contact www.loveactuallyweddings.co.uk) 

JANUARY 10: Castle Hotel, Taunton (11am to 3pm, 

contact www.loveactuallyweddings.co.uk) 

JANUARY 10: Lydiard House Swindon (11am to 3pm, 

contact 01793 238921 or 


JANUARY 10: Crown of Crucis, Cirencester (11am to 

3pm, contact 01793 238921 or 


JANUARY 17: Civic Centre, Trowbridge (10.30am to 

2pm, contact info@cow-parsley.co.uk) 

JANUARY 17: White Horse Country Park, Westbury 

(12 to 4pm, contact 01793 238921 or 


JANUARY 17: Farrington Park, Farrington Gurney 

(11am to 3pm, see www.loveactuallyweddings.co.uk) 

JANUARY 17: Cheese & Grain, Frome (11am to 3pm, 

contact www.the-wedding-emporium.com) 

JANUARY 24: Mount Somerset Hotel, Lower Henlade 

(1pm to 4pm, contact www.thewordbristol.com) 

JANUARY 24: Tithe Barn, Dunster (11am to 3pm, 

contact www.loveactuallyweddings.co.uk) 

Lisa Elliott Floral Design..................20 

Tin Can Floral...................................20 

HEN & STAG 

Weston Lodge Shooting Ground.....26 

LUXURY LOOS 

Temporary Toilets............................48 

MARQUEES 

JG Marquees ...................................44 

PHOTOGRAPHERS 

AJ Photographic..............................51 

Ryan Goold Photography................26 

Siobhan Amy Photography .............35 

A Tall Long-Legged Bird..................46 

White Dove Photography ................42 

REGISTER OFFICES 

Bath Register Office.........................41 

dates for your diary 

calling wedding fair organisers 

Bristol Register Office .....................53 

North Somerset Register Office ......55 

Swindon Register Office..................49 

TRANSPORT 

All Occasions Vintage Hire ..............38 

Cars of Class ...................................38 

VENUE DECORATION 

Enchanted Weddings.......................44 

Mulberry Weddings & Events .........44 

VENUES 

Arnos Vale .......................................52 

Ashton Court Mansion ....................43 

The Avon Gorge Hotel .....................52 

Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel.............46 

Bristol Pavilion ................................50 

Clearwell Castle ...............................39 

Clifton College ..............................OBC 

Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel...40 

Dillington House..............................47 

Farrington Park................................47 

Wedding fairs are a great source of ideas for brides as well as a way of finding everything 

you need under one roof - and there’s bound to be one near you soon. 

So make a note of these dates, but do check locally nearer the time as they may change. 

JANUARY 24: Marsh Farm Hotel, Wootton Bassett 

(11am to 3pm, contact 01793 238921 or 


JANUARY 24: Bath MacDonald Spa Hotel, (11am to 

3pm, contact www.the-wedding-emporium.com) 

JANUARY 24: Old Down Manor, near Tockington (12 to 

4pm, contact 01454 414081 or 

www.olddownmanor.co.uk) 

JANUARY 31: Corn Exchange, Devizes (10.30am to 


JANUARY 31: Somerset County Cricket Club (10.30 to 

3.30pm, contact 07804 283767) 

JANUARY 31: The Wellsway, West Harptree (1pm to 

4pm, contact www.thewordbristol.com) 

JANUARY 31: Lackham House, Lacock (11am to 3pm, 


JANUARY 31: Charlton House, Shepton Mallet (11am 

to 3pm, contact www.loveactuallyweddings.co.uk) 

JANUARY 31: Marriott Hotel, Pipers Way, Swindon 

(11am to 3pm, contact 01793 238921 or 


FEBRUARY 7: The Wrag Barn, Swindon(11am to 3pm, 

contact 01793 238921 or www.whitewed.directory) 

FEBRUARY 7: Wellington Barn, Calne (11am to 3pm, 

contact 01793 238921 or www.whitewed.directory) 

FEBRUARY 7: Cheltenham Park Hotel, Circencester 

Road (11am to 3pm, contact 

www.loveactuallyweddings.co.uk) 

FEBRUARY 14: Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe (11am to 

3pm, see www.loveactuallyweddings.co.uk) 

FEBRUARY 20th & 21st: Royal Bath & West 

Showground, Shepton Mallet (Saturday 10am to 5pm 

and Sunday 10am to 4pm, contact www.weddingshowcase.com) 

FEBRUARY 21: Civic Centre, Warminster (10.30am to 


FEBRUARY 21: Mercure Holland House Hotel, Bristol 

(11am to 4pm, contact www.thewordbristol.com) 

Gants Mill ........................................51 

Gosfield Hall ....................................39 

The Grand Hotel ..............................50 

Kingswood ......................................50 

Leez Priory ......................................39 

Leigh Court......................................48 

Mount Somerset Hotel & Spa .........42 

The Royal Hotel...............................54 

St Audries Park................................39 

The Swan Hotel ...............................40 

Thornbury Castle.............................50 

Tortworth Court Four Pillars Hotel...IBC 

WEDDING FAIRS 

By Invitation Events.........................36 

Cow Parsley.....................................36 

Love Actually ...................................34 

Wedding Showcase.........................37 

White Wed Directory .......................36 

The Word on Weddings ..................35 

WEDDING PLANNERS 

Mulberry Weddings & Events .........44 

FEBRUARY 21: Cotswold Water Park, South Cerney 

(11am to 3pm, contact 


FEBRUARY 21: Village Urban Resort, Swindon (11am 

to 3pm, contact 01793 238921 or 


FEBRUARY 28: Bowood Hotel, Calne (11am to 3pm, 

contact 01249 822228 or www.bowood.org) 

FEBRUARY 28: The Venue at Junction 24, Bridgwater 

(11am to 3pm, contact www.the-weddingemporium.com) 

FEBRUARY 28: Tortworth Court,Wotton-under-Edge 

(11am to 3pm, contact 


MARCH 6: Maunsel House, North Newton (11am to 

3pm, contact 07804 283767) 

MARCH 6: Taunton Racecourse (11am to 3pm, 


MARCH 13: Holiday Inn, Bristol City Centre (11am to 

4pm, contact www.thewordbristol.com) 

MARCH 13: Bishop’s Palace, Wells (11am to 3pm, see 


MARCH 20: The Gables, Falfield (1pm to 4pm, contact 

www.thewordbristol.com) 

MARCH 20: Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford (11am 

to 3pm, contact www.the-wedding-emporium.com) 

MARCH 20: M-Shed, Princes Wharf, Bristol (11am to 


APRIL 3: Hatton Court, Upton St. Leonards (11am to 


APRIL 10: Bristol Golf Club, Almondsbury (11am to 


APRIL 14: Dillington House, Ilminster (5pm to 9pm, 

contact 07804 283767) 

Organisers of Autumn 2016 wedding fairs who would like to have their dates included in the next issue 

of Dream Weddings should call 01626 873364 or email editorial@countymagazines.co.uk by April 1st.

Dream Weddings Magazine - Bristol, Somerset & Wiltshire - iss.32

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