Dream Weddings Magazine - Dorset & Hampshire

contents 

congratulations... 

SPRING / SUMMER 2016 • ISSUE 33 

P22-23 - GO CRAZY.. GO BLACK & WHITE! 

You’ve found the man of your dreams and you’re 

embarking on one of the happiest adventures of your life. 

The months ahead will be full of the most delicious 

decisions (what to wear, which flowers to carry, how to 

decorate the tables at the reception) and some stressful 

ones: if we invite Great Aunt Agatha, can we rely on her not 

to come? Should we have an intimate wedding breakfast or a 

buffet for scores of friends? Will it rain? However daunting the 

whole organisation 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, from the latest collections of 

gowns to ideas on music, from wedding day 

etiquette to up-to-date fashions in flowers. 

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 the 

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! 

C O V E R P H O T O : B R I D A L G O W N B Y M A G G I E S O T T E R O 

AT C H A M E L E O N O F B O U R N E M O U T H 

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 


P2-21 

DESIGNER 

DAZZLE 

2-21 Designer dazzle 

International designers pull out all the 

stops for 2016’s beautiful brides 

22-23 Monochrome magic 

Colour is cool, but black & white is hot 

when it comes to wedding photographs 

24-25 Flower power 

Stunning bridal flowers from top florists 

add style and colour to your big day 

26-27 Truly scrumptious 

A stylish cake provides the perfect 

centrepiece for your reception 

28 Sweet sensations 

Wow your guests with a retro sweet 

selection or a decadent chocolate fountain 

P24-25 - FLOWER POWER 

29-35 Get it together 

Step-by-step guide to everything you 

need to know - and then some 

36-39 Suits you, Mum! 

Head-turning looks for the second most 

important lady of the day - your Mum 

40-42 Fair deal 

Find the top wedding fairs near you to 

sample new ideas and wedding trends 

43-61 It’s party time! 

Stunning venues for every budget 

and entertainment with a difference 

62-64 Brides’ directory 

Classified guide to wedding services plus 

Spring wedding fair dates for your diary 

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

Spring 

fever... 

PICTURED: STELLA YORK AT ANYA BRIDAL 

COUTURE IN DROXFORD, BLISS BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 

IN CHRISTCHURCH, CUPID’S CORNER IN 

GILLINGHAM AND WEDDING TIME IN DORCHESTER 

In Spring the world is full of promise, nature puts on her 

freshest gown, happy little lambs cavort in the fields and 

the tiniest of hatchlings call for food from nests in the 

newly green trees. What better season to embark on a 

new adventure with the love of your life? Spring 

weddings get the joy of the lengthening days, the pick of the 

newly blooming flowers – possibly even the blessings of 

April showers. And, as for the Spring bride... she gets first 

choice of the new year’s bridal collections. 

Look around the 2016 bridal fashions and you’ll find luscious 

lace, fairytale tulle, shimmering satin and seductive silk, with 

stunning accessories from delicate jackets to jewelled belts. 

In Spring, the world is your oyster. Love it! 

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


or 

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. 

sizzle? 

MAIN PICTURE, ABOVE & RIGHT: 

MAGGIE SOTTERO AT CHAMELEON IN BOURNEMOUTH 


PICTURED & BELOW: 

NICOLE SPOSE AT CHERISHED 

BRIDAL WEAR IN BOURNEMOUTH 


Veiled in 

mystery... 

LEFT & RIGHT: ST PATRICK AT 

MINSTER DESIGNS IN WIMBORNE 

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. 


IAN STUART AT CHAMELEON IN BOURNEMOUTH 

PICTURED 

& RIGHT: 

PRONOVIAS AT 

ANYA BRIDAL 

COUTURE IN 

DROXFORD AND 

CHAMELEON IN 

BOURNEMOUTH 


...or 

daringly 

different? 

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. 

ELLA ROSA AT 

NEW FOREST & 

DORSET BRIDES 

IN HIGHCLIFFE 

SOTTERO & 

MIDGLEY AT 

SPECIAL DAY 

& APPLETONS 

IN KEYNSHAM 

PICTURED & 

INSETS RIGHT: 

SOTTERO & MIDGLEY 

AT CHAMELEON IN 

BOURNEMOUTH 


BENJAMIN 

ROBERTS AT 

COURTYARD 

BRIDAL IN 

LYTCHETT 

MINSTER 


On the 

short 

list... 

IAN STUART AT 

CHAMELEON IN 

BOURNEMOUTH 

LADYBIRD AT CLOUD 

NINE IN LOCKS HEATH 

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

NICOLA ANNE AT 

COURTYARD 

BRIDAL IN 

LYTCHETT 

MINSTER 

Stylish, up-to-the-minute 

and with a Wow! factor 

all of their own, short 

wedding dresses are 

everywhere in the 2016 bridal 

collections. You’ll find hemlines up 

and down the scale, from ballerinalength 

to micro mini and some 

come with fabulous detachable 

trains, combining all the glamour 

of a traditional wedding dress with 

all the fun of a contemporary style. 

They’re especially suited to less 

formal occasions, like weddings 

abroad or second marriages and, 

like traditional styles, come in all 

sorts of colours. 

Choose your accessories carefully 

if you’re thinking about going the 

short route. Think about a hat with 

a short, sexy veil or fresh flowers in 

casually-styled hair. 

ALFRED ANGELO AT 

CHERISHED BRIDAL 

WEAR IN BOURNEMOUTH 

AND CLOUD NINE IN 

LOCKS HEATH 

ROMANTICA AT 

WEDDING TIME 

IN DORCHESTER 

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

Cupid’s Corner Bridal Design 

Dreamy Dresses, Shoes and Accessories For Your Special Day... 

Stunning gowns from 

Kenneth Winston, Ella 

Rosa and Femme 

(for the curvier bride) 

• Wedding Gowns 

• Bridesmaids Dresses 

• Prom & Ball Gowns 

• Accessories 

• Jewellery 

• Shoes 

Something for every 

budget Sizes 6 to 34 

Tel: 01747 825525 

8 Newbury Court, High Street, 

Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4QX 

www.cupidscorner-bridalwear.com 

Appointments only 

Tel: 01425 616939 or 

078513 85116 

www.newforestbrides.co.uk 

404 Lymington Road, Highcliffe, Dorset, BH23 5HE. 


Pronovias 

Jasmine Couture 

Jasmine Collection 

Essense of Australia 

Stella York 

Ronald Joyce 

Victoria Jane 

Phil Collins Bridal 

By Appointment Only • 01489 878084 

The Hampshire Barn, St Clair’s Farm, Wickham Road, Droxford, Hampshire SO32 3PW 

www.anyabridal.co.uk • enquiries@anyabridal.co.uk 

www.facebook.com/AnyaBridal • @anyabridalUK 


New & once worn wedding dresses 

Stockists for True Bride 

White Rose & Verise 

Tel: 01202 721821 

453 Ashley Road, Poole Dorset BH14 0AY • www.isobelsbridalandgroom 

BLISS BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 

Stunning bridalwear and bridesmaids 

By appointment 

Slim and slinky, chic and elegant,a 

confection of tulle? Off-theshoulder, 

halter-necked, spaghettistrapped, 

illusion neckline, 

strapless, backless? In virginal white, 

subtle ivory, champagne, baby pink, 

gold? If you’re beginning to panic, 

don’t. Just get out there and start 

looking. You’re wedding gown is 

the most exciting dress you will 

ever buy and most brides will tell 

you that they knew they’d found 

the right one the moment they 

tried it on. 

If you’re looking for our top tips, 

here are a handful of things to bear 

in mind: 

181 Barrack Road | Christchurch | Dorset | BH23 2AR 

01202 482870 dresses@blissbridalwear.co.uk 

blissbridalwear.co.uk 


So,where 

to begin? 

PICTURED & LEFT: KENNETH WINSTON 

AT NEW FOREST & DORSET BRIDES 

IN HIGHCLIFFE 

PICTURED & RIGHT: 

NICOLA ANNE AT 

COURTYARD BRIDAL IN 

LYTCHETT MINSTER 

Be open-minded 

Every dress looks better on that it does on the 

hanger. Don’t turn specific dresses down out of 

hand because you think you won’t like them. Try on 

a variety of styles and you’ll soon discover which 

you’re happiest in. 

Listen to the experts 

Bridal shop staff know their stuff. They are well 

versed in styles which complement every figure, 

they know how accessories can change the overall 

look and they know their stock inside out. You don’t 

have to take their advice, but at least consider it. 

Make it a small party 

Don’t go shopping with a gaggle of friends – too 

many opinions can be confusing. Limit yourself to a 

couple of friends who you can trust to be honest 

about what suits you – and what doesn’t. 

And finally, have fun! 


B R I DA L S A L O N E S T A B L I S H E D 19 8 3 

For Beautiful Bridal Gowns 

Bridal Gowns, 

Bridesmaid 

Dresses, Veils, 

Tiaras, Lingerie 

and much 

more! 

Bridal Gowns ❤ Bridesmaid Dresses 

Men's Formalwear ❤ Accessories 

15, High East Street, Dorchester DT1 1HH 

01305 269555 • www.wedding-time.com 

Tel: 01202 625494 

www.courtyardbridal.co.uk 

The Courtyard Craft Centre 

Huntick Road, Lytchett Minster, Poole BH16 6BA 

Address: 1082 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, BH7 6DS - Tel: 01202 432800 

Monday 11am till 4pm, Tuesday 10am till 4pm, Wednesday closed, Thursday 10am 

till 4pm, Friday 11am till 4pm and Saturday 10am till 5pm. Sundays 

appointment only. Evening appointments available on request. 

Official stockists for 

Alfred Angelo & Nicole 

Spose bridal gowns 


RIGHT & BELOW: MARTINA LIANA AT 

MINSTER BRIDES IN WIMBORNE 

Become the bride you’ve always dreamt 

of at Minster Designs Bridal Boutique in 

Wimborne: they ensure every bride-tobe 

feels exceptional. 

Minster Designs creates a unique bridal 

experience, tailored to each customer, offering a 

personal, private and exclusive service and 

providing everything from stunning designer 

wedding dresses, to in-house alterations, 

handmade accessories and collections for the 

rest of your bridal party too including bridesmaid 

and mother of the bride outfits. 

Their eclectic styles are hand-picked from top 

international collections, including Martina Liana 

Live the 

fairytale 

by Essense of Australia, St Patrick by Pronovias, 

White One, LouLou and Sorella Vita. All are 

exclusive in Dorset to Minster Designs. 

Friendly staff provide expert advice, product 

knowledge and a whole host of accessory and 

styling options, from carefully selected shoes, to 

veils, tiaras, headpieces and jewellery. 

A talented in-house seamstress will talk you 

through each alteration option and can provide 

special requirements and unique design ideas, to 

ensure you attain your dream dress. 

And for the men? Formal men’s hire is due to arrive 

from January 2016. 

Minster Designs is proud to be a regional winner at 

the Venus Awards and also a national finalist. 

For more details, call 01202 986040 or visit the 

website at www.minsterdesigns.com. 

Traditional or contemporary, worn with or 

without a veil, the tiara is the headdress of 

choice for today’s brides. ‘Tiaras 

complement any style of gown,’ says Ros 

Woodhouse of Tiaras and Crowns ‘and can 

be worn with upswept, worn down or 

short hairstyles.’ 

When you’re choosing your tiara bear in mind 

that it should suit the shape of your face, your 

wedding hairstyle and the style of your gown. 

‘Diamante tiaras go with any colour of gown, 

says Ros, ‘while tiaras with pearls should 

match either your jewellery or your gown.’ 

Tiaras and Crowns has a fantastic selection of 

bridal headdresses to complement every bride. 

For more information, call 01305 

814950 or visit the website at 

www.tiarasandcrowns.net. 

www.tiarasandcrowns.net 


1 8 • D R E A M W E D D I N G S I N D O R S E T & H A M P S H I R E 

PICTURED & ABOVE: 

SORELLA VITA AT BLISS 

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE IN 

CHRISTCHURCH AND 

MINSTER DESIGNS IN 

WIMBORNE

RIGHT & INSET BELOW: 

JASMINE AT FAB FROCKS OF WESTBOURNE 

Pretty maids 

all in a row 

Long gone are the days when you 

were thrilled that your best 

friend asked you to be her 

bridesmaid – but your heart 

sank at the prospect of the fussy, frilly 

confection she was going to expect you 

to wear. Today’s bridesmaids can expect 

to be completely spoilt by the delicious 

choice of styles, fabrics and colours 

available – and virtually all of them can be 

worn time and time again after the 

wedding. 

Delicate pinks, lilacs, blues and greens are 

perennially popular, but so too are rich 

purples, vibrant fuchsias and intense teals. 

Advice for brides? Don’t be afraid to 

choose slightly different styles of dress to 

suit different bridesmaids’ figures – and, 

if you really want to stand out from the 

crowd, don’t be afraid to choose different 

tones of the same colour, or even toning 

but different colours. 

Your bridesmaids will love you for it! 

RIGHT: D'ZAGE AT FAB FROCKS 

OF WESTBOURNE AND CUPID'S 

CORNER IN GILLINGHAM 


Man of the 

Preparing for 

your special day? 

Visit Gibb Menswear for all 

your formal wear needs. 

We provide outfits for hire 

for all occasions, 

whether it be a wedding, business 

function or black tie event, there 

is something for everyone! 

We also specialise 

in mens outfitting 

GIBB MENSWEAR 

62a Bargates, Christchurch, Dorset 

01202 489621 

www.gibbmenswear.co.uk 

Wearing the perfect outfit for a 

wedding isn’t just the 

prerogative of the bride and 

her entourage. The men in 

the bridal party want to look and feel 

special too. The men’s formal department 

at Chas H. Baker in Salisbury aims to fulfil 

that dream. 

Formal wear manager Peter Northover said: 

‘We set out to create a relaxing atmosphere 

where grooms and their partners can take 

time to select the look they want to achieve, 

considering our huge range of different 

styles, colours, textures and combinations. 

‘Our range of waistcoats and colours of 

our accessories are vast – whether you are looking for classic simplicity or 

dramatic flamboyance. 

‘Chas H. Baker, established in the city 

over 100 years ago, is still run by the 

same family – a testimony to its 

outstanding reputation for quality 

menswear and traditional service.’ 

The formal hire department runs 

alongside the store’s wide range of 

quality menswear to buy. 

For more information, call 01722 

324234 or visit the website at 

www.salisbury-suit-hire.com. 

LEFT: FORMAL WEAR 

BY CHAS H BAKER 


moment! 

FORMAL WEAR BY 

GIBB MENSWEAR 

Traditional morning coat or Prince 

Edward jacket? Striped trousers or 

herringbone? Black or navy? Cravat or 

tie? And then there’s the waistcoat… 

Grooms have never had so much choice 

and they’re revelling in it. 

For a formal wedding, the men in the bridal party 

usually wear traditional morning dress in black or 

grey – if you’re choosing black, it’s usually teamed 

with grey pinstripe trousers and a grey waistcoat, 

along with a wing-collared shirt and cravat. 

Top hats and gloves are invariably carried, not 

worn and a pair of well-polished black shoes 

completes the outfit. 

But the choice doesn’t stop there. Instead of the 

formal tailcoat, grooms are increasingly choosing 

the flattering Prince Edward jacket or the stylish 

Nehru jacket. For less formal weddings, lounge 

suits are making a comeback too. 

And when it comes to waistcoats and cravats, the 

world is their oyster. This is when the groom’s 

personality comes to the fore – as long as he 

matches or tones in with the bridesmaids’ outfits 

for maximum impact in your photographs! 

Silver grey tails are still the number one 

choice for the men’s wedding outfits, 

says Gibb Menswear – though lounge 

suits have now gained popularity either for 

hire or purchase. Gibb Menswear’s 

Southbourne shop also offers traditional 

morning wear, Edwardian style jackets, DJs 

and also Highland wear (to order), plus all the 

accessories in every colour you could 

wish for. 

For more details call 01202 425705 or visit 

www.gibbmenswearbournemouth.co.uk. 


PHOTO BY LINUS MORAN PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY HOLLY MARSH PHOTOGRAPHY 

Black 

& white? 

PHOTO BY 

AJ PHOTOGRAPHIC 

PHOTO BY 

LINUS MORAN 

PHOTOGRAPHY 


PHOTO BY 

CP PHOTOGRAPHY 


PHOTO BY PARADOX PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY AJ PHOTOGRAPHIC 

PHOTO BY 

CP PHOTOGRAPHY 

It’s the new colour... 

PHOTO BY 

PARADOX 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY 

LINUS MORAN 

PHOTOGRAPHY 


PHOTO BY 




Roses, 

roses 

all the 

way... 

LEFT & ABOVE: 

The flower team at event specialist 

Nomad is always on the lookout for 

innovative ways with flowers - and 

they use their Aladdin's cave of 

glittering objects, sourced from 

around the world, to create 

breathtaking arrangements. 

From delicate hand-held posies for 

bridesmaids to flamboyant displays 

for table settings, this Warehambased 

wedding specialist will create the atmosphere you dream of with passion 

and enthusiasm. 

For details, call 01929 551978 or visit www.nomadfood.co.uk. 

RIGHT: 

Whether your choice of 

wedding flowers is 

traditional or 

contemporary, Beyond 

the Gate Florist in 

Christchurch promises to 

produce wedding 

flowers which are 

unique, exquisite 

and utterly beautiful. 

For details, call 

01202 470272 or visit 

www.beyondthe 

gateflorist.co.uk. 


LEFT & BELOW: 

Jennifer Bronsell of Bournemouth-based 

Coast Cakes is an award-winning cake 

artist who is a preferred supplier to many 

of the top wedding venues in Dorset and 

Hampshire. A qualified chef, she 

promises both excellent service and 

outstanding quality. 

For details, 

call 01202 

539120 or visit 

www.coastcakes.co.uk. 

Happily ever 

LEFT & RIGHT: 

Love cake? Then you’ll love the 

Bournemouth-based Cake 

Agency, who specialise in 

celebration cakes and promise 

a delicious cake, made 

specially to your individual 

requirements, using the 

freshest of ingredients. 

For details, call 

07803 161960 or visit 

www.thecakeagency.co.uk. 

The 

Bournemouth 

Cake Boutique 

Specialising in the 

creation of exquisite 

wedding cakes 

805, Christchurch Road, 

Bournemouth BH7 6AP 

T: 01202 900130 

M: 07954 181268 

www.cakesbyliz.co.uk 


afters! 

Cake and sugarcraft specialist Filigrana of 

Sherborne will transform your dreams into 

that very special wedding cake. 

All cakes are individually hand crafted and 

decorated and they pride themselves on the 

quality of their cakes, baked using only the finest 

ingredients, most sourced locally. 

For details, call 01935 816245 or visit 

www.filigranacakes.co.uk 

ABOVE & RIGHT: 

Specialists in the creation of exquisite 

wedding cakes, the Bournemouth Cake 

Boutique will create a stunning 

centrepiece for your reception. Choose 

from a huge variety of flavours - or have 

a tier of each! 

For more details, call 01202 900130 or 

visit www.cakesbyliz.co.uk. 

Ask about our budget 

busting options 

Bournemouth based 

Tel: 07803 161960 

www.thecakeagency.co.uk 

Award winning bespoke wedding cakes 

tel. 01202 539120 | mob. 07789 000387 

email. coastcakes@btinternet.com 

www.coastcakes.co.uk 


▼ 

Make your wedding day 

even sweeter by choosing 

from a selection of sweet bars, candy 

crates, wedding favours, party bags and 

even personalised sweets from Dorsetbased 

Keep it Sweet. 

For more details, call 01202 486256 

or visit www.keepitsweet.co.uk. 

Keep 

it sweet 

For sheer indulgent decadence, you can’t beat a chocolate 

fountain at your reception. Dip bite-sized pieces of fresh 

fruit, homemade biscuits and other goodies in a warm cascade of luxury 

Belgian chocolate and savour the sensation. Well established family 

business, Chocolate Fountains of Dorset, offers packages to suit all 

budgets, starting at just £275 for two fountains. 

Call 01202 890033 or visit www.chocolatefountainsofdorset.co.uk 

for more details. 

▼ 


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 

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 

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. 

Planning Makes Perfect 

cut out and keep 

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 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 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. 



The traditional invitation, with the bride’s 

parents as hosts is worded as follows: 

Mr and Mrs Simon Hayes request the pleasure 

of your company at the marriage of their 

daughter Jennifer Anne to Mr Michael Jones at 

St Benedict’s Church, Bournemouth on Saturday 

August 19th at 2pm followed by a reception at 

The County Hotel, Bournemouth 

RSVP 10 Marigold Gardens, Bournemouth 

In this form, the names of the guests are 

handwritten in the top left hand corner 

of the invitation. 

Alternatively a space is left in the invitation 

for the guests’ names: 

Mr and Mrs Simon Hayes request the 

pleasure of the company of 

........................................................ 

at the marriage of their daughter Jennifer Anne (etc) 

Make it clear precisely who is being invited. 

For a married couple, Mr and Mrs John 

Jeffries; for a family, Mr and Mrs John Jeffries, 

Jeremy and Jemima. 

The invitations... 

Invitations should be sent out six 

weeks before the wedding, so you 

will need to order them from the 

printer about three months in 

advance of the event. It’s worth taking time 

to choose wedding stationery which 

matches the style of your wedding, whether 

it’s romantic and traditional, chic and classical 

or off-the-wall and bang-up-to-the -minute. 

Then the rest of your wedding stationery can 

be ordered in the same style, including maps to 

help guests find their way easily, order of 

service sheets (you’ll need one for each guest 

plus a few spares), menus for the reception, 

place cards and so on. The exact wording on 

your invitations can be extremely complicated if 

parents are divorced or you are hosting the 

wedding yourselves. 

...and what they should say 

Bride’s mother as host, 

if she is widowed: 

Mrs David Jones requests the pleasure of your 

company at the marriage of her daughter (etc) 

Bride’s mother as host if 

she is divorced: 

Mrs Margaret Jones requests the pleasure of your 

company (etc) 

Bride’s mother if she has remarried and is 

hosting the wedding with the bride’s 

stepfather: 

Mr and Mrs George Simpson request the 

pleasure of your company at the marriage of her 

daughter Jennifer Anne (etc) 

Bride’s father as host: 

Mr David Jones requests the pleasure of your 

company at the marriage of his daughter 

Jennifer Anne (etc) 

See the panel for examples. 

As well as a map detailing how to get there, it’s 

useful to include with the invitation details of 

where guests can park and, for those who 

are coming long distances, a selection of 

recommended accommodation. 

For guests of the groom’s family, the groom’s 

mother should send a list of names and addresses 

to the bride’s mother so she can issue the 

invitations. According to strict wedding etiquette, 

envelopes should be addressed only to the wife of 

a couple or family: Mrs Samuel Johnson. As a 

matter of courtesy, an invitation should be sent to 

the groom’s parents and to the minister and his 

wife. When ordering your invitations, remember 

you’ll only need one for each family, plus a few 

spares for emergencies. 

According to strict 

wedding etiquette, 

envelopes should 

be addressed only 

to the wife of a 

couple or family 

Where the bridal couple are the hosts, the 

invitations should be worded: 

Miss Jennifer Hayes and Mr Michael Jones 

request the pleasure of your company 

at their marriage (etc) 

Divorced parents, if the bride’s 

mother has remarried 

Mr David Jones and Mrs Margaret Simpson 

request the pleasure of your company at the 

marriage of their daughter Jennifer Anne (etc) 

Divorced parents, if the bride’s mother 

has not remarried: 

Mr David Jones and Mrs Margaret Jones request 

the pleasure of your company at the marriage of 

their daughter (etc) 


Bride’s father remarried and hosting the wedding 

with the bride’s stepmother: 

Mr and Mrs David Jones request the pleasure of 

your company at the marriage of his daughter 

Jennifer Anne (etc) 

Invitations to civil weddings follow the same 

format, substituting the name of the register 

office or approved venue for the church in 

the examples above. 

Where space at the wedding ceremony is 

limited, guests can be invited to the reception 

only. For these invitations, the wording 

(depending on the host) is: 

Mr and Mrs Simon Hayes request the pleasure 

of your company at a reception at the County 

Hotel, Bournemouth on Saturday, 19th August 

at 3pm following the marriage of their daughter 

Jennifer Anne to Mr Michael Jones. 

The same wording can be used to invite extra guests to 

an evening party following the 

main reception. 

cut out and keep


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. 

The fee for giving notice is £35 each and, 

normally, notices should be with the registrar 

about eight weeks before the marriage. If either of 

you have been married before, the notices should 

be given 10 weeks before. 

The minimum period before the date of the 

proposed marriage is 28 days, but if you leave 

things as late as this you could be faced with the 

need to postpone your marriage. 

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 many thousands of 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. 

PHOTO BY A J PHOTOGRAPHIC 

Marrying abroad 

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. 

It’s important to establish early on what the 

church’s policy is on photographs or video 

being taken during the service, whetherany 

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 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. 

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. 




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. 

• 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. 


• 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. 

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 

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 

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 on the 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 

• 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 fatherin-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. 

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. 

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 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. 



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 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 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 

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 Royce, a classic Daimler, a convertible Cadillac, a stretch 

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. 


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. 

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. 

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 CP 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

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, 


Chief bridesmaid 

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 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 

Top Table Seating Plan 

Groom’s father 

Bride’s mother 

Groom 

Bride 

Bride’s father 

Groom’s mother 

Best Man 

do this before the speeches to 

allow it to be cut and served) 

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. 

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 semiformal 

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. 



Specialists in Occasion 

Wear & Millinery 

One of the 

largest stockists 

in the south 

for Mother 

of the Bride 

& wedding 

guests. 

Sizes 8 to 28 

School Road 

Fawley Village 

Southampton 

SO45 1EA 

FREE Parking 

OPEN: 9am to 5pm 

Mon to Sat 

Tel: 02380 894500 

www.charismafashions.com 

J o h n C h a r l e s • C o n d i c i • A n n B a l o n 

J o s e p h R i b k o f f • C a r o l i n e B i s s • L u i s C i v i t 

Over 20 top labels 

of occasionwear, 

many exclusive in the area 

Open: Tues - Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-4 

Closed Sun & Mon 

Tel: 01202 659700 

www.ireneofbroadstone.co.uk 

3 Station Approach, Broadstone, 

Dorset BH18 8AX 

I s a b e l l a • M i c h a e l a L o u i s a 


M i l l i n e r y b y N i g e l R a y m e n t • R a i n b o w d y e t o m a t c h s h o e s 

JOHN CHARLES AT CHARISMA OF FAWLEY, 

IRENE IN BROADSTONE, LA BELLE IN 

BOURNEMOUTH, FAB FROCKS OF 

WESTBOURNE AND CHAMELEON IN 

BOURNEMOUTH 

VENI INFANTINO AT 

CHARISMA OF FAWLEY

It’s Mother’s 

day too... 

about choosing her outfit as you are. You don’t 

have to co-ordinate with the bridesmaids or each 

other, but it’s useful to know you’ll all look good 

together on the photographs. 

Comfort is important 

You’re going to be wearing your outfit all day and 

all evening (unless you plan to change), so 

choose something you can walk, talk, sit and 

dance easily in. You should be wearing the dress, 

it shouldn’t be wearing you. 

CONDICI AT IRENE IN 

BROADSTONE, FAB FROCKS 

OF WESTBOURNE AND LA 

BELLE IN BOURNEMOUTH 

Finding that perfect outfit for your daughter’s 

(or your son’s) wedding is one of the most 

stressful missions the Mother of the Bride 

has to undertake. And we know all about it, 

here at Dream Weddings, because we had two 

Mothers of the Groom in the office last summer. 

The questions were endless. How smart should 

they be? Would they be overdressed or underdressed? 

Should they go for a hat or a fascinator or 

even a beautiful hair accessory? The style 

predicaments seemed limitless. As a result, we put 

together some top tips: 

First things first 

Find out from the happy couple just how formal 

their wedding is going to be, where it’s going to be 

and whether the bride has chosen a colour theme. 

That will determine the formality of your own outfit 

and give you some colour ideas. 

Accessorise... 

...carefully. Great accessories can transform a 

plain, but classic dress into a fabulous, 

glamorous outfit. Having said that, remember 

less is sometimes more so, once you’ve chosen, 

dress yourself up from top to toe and take a 

good look at how it all works together. 

...and when it comes to shoes... 

Don’t go for vertiginously high heels if you’re 

not used to them and do buy your shoes a few 

months before the wedding so you have a chance 

to wear them in. You’re going to be on your feet 

for much of the day and if you’re in pain, you 

won’t be able to hide it! 

BELOW: JOHN CHARLES AT CHARISMA OF 

FAWLEY, IRENE IN BROADSTONE, LA BELLE IN 

BOURNEMOUTH, FAB FROCKS OF WESTBOURNE 

AND CHAMELEON IN BOURNEMOUTH 

VENI INFANTINO 

AT CHARISMA 

OF FAWLEY 

Start early 

Give yourself somewhere close to six months to 

find your outfit - especially if you’re used to a 

completely informal look. You need time to get 

your head round the occasion, settle on a style, find 

all your accessories and have any alterations done 

to ensure that perfect fit. 

Talk to people 

As well as the bride, have a heart-to-heart with the 

other important Mum - she’s probably as worried 


Retiring Summer 2016 

Mothers are 

important too 

From casual, cruisewear to that 

Special Day, we can match you 

with the perfect outfit and have 

one of the largest selections of 

millinery locally 

• John Charles 

• Condici 

• Gina Bacconi 

• Damianou 

• Lucia 

• Sommermann 

• Allison - Tia 

• Ursula and many 

more 

Sizes 8-24 

Spoilt for choice 

- So come and 

be spoilt! 

ALL STOCK 

REDUCED 

531 Wimborne Road, 

Winton, Bournemouth BH9 2AP 

Tel: 01202 530942 

Open Mon - Sat 9.45am - 5pm 

www.labelle-ladiesfashions.co.uk 

PRONOVIAS AT MINSTER 

DESIGNS IN WIMBORNE 

CONDICI AT IRENE 

IN BROADSTONE, 

FAB FROCKS OF 

WESTBOURNE 

AND LA BELLE IN 

BOURNEMOUTH 


Suits you, 

Mum! 

CONDICI AT IRENE IN BROADSTONE, 

FAB FROCKS OF WESTBOURNE 

AND LA BELLE IN BOURNEMOUTH 

Form an orderly queue, ladies, 

because Sue Slade, who has been 

dressing mothers of the bride for 

30 years has decided to retire – and 

all of the stock at her La Belle boutique in 

Bournemouth is now reduced. 

‘I’ve loved every minute of it,’ says Sue, 

‘and of course I’ll miss the fun and 

excitement of finding the perfect outfit for 

all those lovely mums and lady guests. But 

I’m heavily involved in charity work and 

looking forward to having more time with 

my family.’ 

Collections currently include Condici, John 

Charles, Gina Bacconi, Damianou, Allison 

and Ursula for the more formal occasion 

and Sommermann, Nasse and H & O for the 

less formal. 

And La Belle’s large selections of millinery, 

complementing jewellery and clutch bags 

are also in the sale. 

Whether it’s formal or relaxed, high fashion 

or classic, local or on far-off shores, head 

for La Belle – because once it’s gone, it’s 

gone. And don’t forget their excellent alteration service, so your outfit can be tailored to fit 

if necessary. 

For more information, don’t hesitate to call 01202 530942, or visit the website at 

www.labelle-ladiesfashions.co.uk. 

Looking for the perfect handbag to match 

that fabulous outfit? Poole-based 

Rosemary Ringrose has been designing 

and making handbags for over 20 years – 

notably for Jimmy Choo and other well known 

designers. Her own range has been lovingly 

created using fine silks, satins and leather and 

she also offers a bespoke and colour 

matching service, making the perfectly 

styled bag for your outfit. You can even 

supply your own material if you wish. 

CABOTINE AT FAB FROCKS 

OF WESTBOURNE 

For more information, call 01202 738064 

or visit www.roseringrosehandbags.co.uk. 


SOMETHING BLUE WEDDING FAYRE 

Holiday Inn,Winchester 

28th February - 11am to 3pm 

VINTAGE WEDDING FAYRE 

Alton House Hotel 

20th March - 11am to 3pm 

AN ENGLISH COUNTRY GARDEN 

WEDDING FAYRE 

Old Alresford Place 

17th April - 11am to 3pm 

New dates and venues added regularly. 

For details of all 2016 wedding fayres please 

visit www.littlestarevents.co.uk 


PHOTO BY CP PHOTOGRAPHY 

My fairlady 

The 2016 BIC Wedding Show returns to Bournemouth International Centre 

from February 19 to 21 looking better than ever, thanks to a new layout 

designed to create an inspiring and relaxed experience for couples 

planning their big day. This year the entire exhibition is being held in the 

Windsor Hall, with a spectacular catwalk show taking centre stage. With 

everything in one place, it’s going to be much easier for brides-to-be to find their 

way around and tick off their todo 

list. 

PHOTO BY 

PARADOX 

Now in its 22nd year, the show 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

brings together hundreds of 

fabulous wedding and civil 

partnership ideas from more than 

100 experts, all eager to play a 

part in those big day celebrations. 

There’ll be a full programme 

of events throughout the 

weekend, including professionally 

choreographed catwalk shows, 

performances from wedding 

entertainers, and a Groom Zone 

for visitors to have a break and a 

little flutter in the pop-up casino. 

‘The new layout has been brilliant 

in attracting high quality exhibitors,’ says Sarah Stainer, conference and 

exhibitions manager. ‘It creates a natural visitor journey through aisles of bridal 

wear, menswear, mother of the bride outfits, vintage weddings, entertainers, 

carriages and catering. It’ll be a great day out.’ 

The show begins on Friday, February 19, from 5pm to 8pm and continues on 

Saturday from 10am to 5pm and on Sunday from 10am to 4pm. Tickets cost 

£2.50 for Friday evening and £4 Saturday and Sunday, discounted for groups of 

four, plus free entry for accompanying seniors and children under 16. 

For more details and to buy tickets, visit www.bic.co.uk, call 01202 456400 or email 

exhibitions@bhlive.org.uk. 

For a round-up of wedding fairs near 

you, see Dates for your Diary on page 64 


March 20th 

The Winchester Royal 

Hotel, Winchester 

April 24th 

Novotel Hotel, 

Southampton 

Tel: 02380 560073 

or 07885 834476 

For a comprehensive list of all our shows, please 

visit www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk 


Award Winning Planners & Venue Managers 

Spring 

Open Day 

1st May - 

10am to 4pm 

Wilkswood 

Open Day 

26th June - 

11am to 3pm 

All’s fair... 

Free entry and canapés at both events 

Come along and meet our recommended suppliers 

Contact 01202 533014 or www.bellissimo-weddings.co.uk 

Whatever stage you’re at with 

your wedding planning, 

wedding fairs are a great 

source of inspiration for 

brides-to-be. Whether you only have a 

few details to tie up or you’re newly 

engaged and looking for ideas, there’s 

always something to take away from 

them (there may even be a goodie bag!). 

Wedding fairs are designed to give you 

inspiration, meet suppliers, tour a venue, 

listen to live music that could potentially 

play at your wedding, meet bridalwear 



designers and get you excited in 

the preparations for your big 

day – possibly with a glass of 

bubbly in your hand. 

You’ll often find that suppliers 

will offer special discounts to 

brides attending the fair – and, 

even if you only pick up some 

leaflets and watch the fashion 

show, you’ll be caught up in the 

bubble of scores of happy bridesto-be, 

all together in one room 

and all bursting with excitement. 

For a round-up of wedding fairs near 

you, see Dates for your Diary on page 64 


dreamvenues 


▼ Highcliffe Castle, Highcliffe 

PHOTO BY WWW.CARRIEBUGGPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK 

And the 

toast is... 

Built in an architectural style appropriately 

called ‘Romantic and Picturesque’, 

spectacular Highcliffe Castle provides a 

stunning clifftop location for your wedding. 

The Grade I listed castle specialises in both civil 

ceremonies and receptions. 

You can hold your ceremony in the beautiful 

Wintergarden which seats 100 guests and then enjoy 

your reception in the refurbished State Dining Room, 

which seats 80, or the Great Hall seating up to 100. 

The Wedding Suite holds up to 150 for your evening 

party. Alternatively you may wish to head off to one 

of the many local restaurants or hotels for your 

reception. 

You can hold your wedding on any day of the week 

throughout the year, with several time options to 

choose from. Following your ceremony why not 

enjoy Champagne and canapés in the beautiful 

grounds while your photographs are taken? 

The beautiful sandy beach, just a gentle stroll away, 

provides additional photo opportunities. 

Contact the castle team on 01425 278807 to 

receive a wedding pack and check availability 

or visit www.highcliffecastle.co.uk. 

PHOTO BY CP PHOTOGRAPHY 

Dorset-based professional toastmaster Brian 

Cox travels across the southern counties, 

giving celebrations of all kinds a real sense 

of occasion and ensuring they go 

according to plan. Trained by, and a member of, the 

English Toastmasters’ Association, he is proud of 

being highly recommended by many venues and 

past clients. 

He said: ‘I give 110 per cent to every bride to ensure 

she, her groom and the family and guests have a 

stress-free special day. 

‘I’m a firm believer in attention to detail and will work 

with venue staff and management to ensure the 

bride’s wishes, protocol and etiquette are carried out 

to the highest standard.’ 

For more information – and to see what brides 

have said about Brian – take a look on his 

website, www.toastmasterdorset.co.uk. Brian 

can be contacted by phone on 01202 824885 or 

by email: Brian@toastmasterdorset.co.uk. 

TOM'S BESPOKE 

BARTENDING CO 


▼Merley House, Wimborne 

Merley House is a stunning 

18th century Georgian 

manor house just south of 

Wimborne, Dorset. If you are 

looking for a venue for your whole 

day then look no further! They offer 

exclusivity for you and your guests 

and a friendly personal service 

tailored to your needs. 

The ground floor has four state 

rooms each individually decorated 

with period features, enchanting 

ceilings and impressive fireplaces. 

The classic entrance hall and 

dramatic staircase provide you with PHOTO BY CP PHOTOGRAPHY 

wonderful photograph opportunities 

while your guests enjoy the wide variety of sumptuous food and fine 

beverages. On the first floor you have use of the bridal suite which offers 

fantastic photo opportunities, including use of the three balconies. 

There are packages to suit every budget and discounts for weekday and 

winter weddings. 

If you are interested in viewing the venue, contact the events team on 01202 

885024 or enquiries@merleyhouseevents.co.uk. 


dreamvenues 

▼HMS Warrior 1860, Portsmouth 

Situated in the heart of 

Portsmouth’s Historic 

Dockyard, HMS Warrior 

1860 commands a prime 

position in the harbour. The ship 

is one of the most unusual 

attractions on the south coast 

and visited by in excess of 

350,000 people a year. 

Romantic, atmospheric and 

entirely unique, she provides 

a superb historical maritime 

setting for wedding ceremonies 

and evening receptions for the 

modern couple! 

Licensed for ceremonies for up to 100 guests and 

able to accommodate from 20 to 288 people for 

exclusive formal receptions and 600 cocktail style, 

the ship offers flexible and spacious surroundings for 

wedding parties of any size. 

Warrior Preservation Trust is a self-funded charity 

that is not supported by any Government grants or 

funding. 

PHOTOS BY 

MARTIN LEWIS 

Warrior relies solely on daily visitors, donations, 

private hire, weddings, and fundraising events. So, 

by choosing HMS Warrior for your most important of 

days not only will you be giving your guests the 

opportunity to attend a wedding like no other, you 

will also be directly helping to fund and preserve the 

ship for the benefit of this and future generations. 

For more information, call 02392 778604 or visit 

the website at www.hmswarrior.org. 

▼ Kingston Maurward, 

near Dorchester 

Set in the heart of the Dorset countryside, 

Kingston Maurward’s 17th century house 

and gardens are an idyllic location for the 

perfect wedding. 

Discover the peaceful and intimate setting, 

beautifully situated with a scenic lake, extensive 

lawns and formal gardens providing the ideal 

backdrop to a wonderful day. 

With its parkland approach and sweeping drive, the 

Georgian mansion house and ornate rooms set the 

scene for a civil ceremony, wedding breakfast and 

evening reception. 

The picturesque setting is the ultimate backdrop for 

those treasured photographs capturing the essence 

of an English country house wedding, while friendly 

professional staff will ensure that the entire day is 

tailored to individual requirements. 

With its stunning countryside setting, traditional 

menu and unrivalled facilities, Kingston Maurward 

will provide a wedding day to remember forever. 

Kingston Maurward’s wedding fair in 

February, is a one-stop shop for every bride- and 

groom-to-be. 

For more information call 01305 215 050 or 

visit the website at www.kmc.ac.uk/weddings. 

▼Meon Valley Marriott Hotel, Shedfield 

Meon Valley Marriott Hotel & 

Country Club nestles in 225 acres 

of glorious Hampshire 

countryside and provides the perfect 

romantic venue for wedding ceremonies 

and receptions. Arrive down a beautiful 

tree-lined driveway with views across the 

golf course, the perfect entrance for your 

big day. 

The hotel has a relaxed atmosphere, 

modern feel and attentive staff and the 

stunning Hampshire suite is the ultimate 

venue, enjoying breathtaking views. It 

links onto the Hampshire patio area which can be 

used exclusively for your wedding party, perfect for 

your arrival drinks. 

If a three-course wedding breakfast is too formal for 

you then the patio also makes a stunning venue for 

a barbecue for day and evening receptions. 

To capture those all-important memories 

you can whisk yourselves off in one of the 

golf buggies to capture some intimate 

moments beside the picturesque lake. 

Celebrate your wedding at Meon Valley and 

you will enjoy luxury accommodation, 

stunning function suites, handcrafted 

cuisine and breathtaking backdrops to 

capture your memories for years to come. 

Friendly and experienced staff make your 

wedding as individual as you, making your 

big day exactly how you imagined it 

and more. 


or visit the website at 

www.marriottweddings.co.uk/meonvalley. 


Wedding packages from £3765* 

Now 

licensed 

for 

marriages 

*Prices correct at time of going to print 



Wedding 

fair, 

see our 

website 

for more 

details 


dreamvenues 

▼ University of Winchester, Winchester 

Licensed for civil ceremonies, the University of Winchester offers two 

great locations where you can celebrate your wedding in style: whether 

you prefer traditional and elegant or modern and striking, they have the 

right venue for you. For traditional 

PHOTO BY AJ PHOTOGRAPHIC and elegant weddings, the Grade II 

listed Victorian building (the West 

Downs Centre) is the perfect setting 

offering style, charm and character 

for up to 110 guests. Picture 

beautiful oak panelling, a restored 

parquet wooden floor and raised 

gallery offering a stunning backdrop 

as you enter your wedding 

breakfast, sweeping down the grand 

staircase as the newly announced 

Mr and Mrs. If you are looking for a 

more modern and contemporary 

feel, the Dining Hall is a bright and 

sunny space with a modern twist, 

best suited to larger weddings for up to 250 guests. 

In the evening, you can choose to move downstairs to the Vault Venue, to 

incorporate a funky feel for your evening reception. 

For more details, call 01962 827322 or visit the website at 

www.winchester.ac.uk/conferences. 

W E D D I N G FA I R 

Sunday 21st February • 11am-3pm 



TIGER LILY OCCASIONS 

Wedding and Event Hire Specialists 

CHAIR COVERS - CENTREPIECES 

CHOCOLATE FOUNTAINS - TABLE LINEN 

VENUE DECORATION - CANDY BUFFETS 

EDIBLE PALM TREES - PICK 'N' MIX STAND 

GIANT GARDEN GAMES - CANDY FLOSS 

*WEDDING PACKAGES AVAILABLE* 

▼ 

Poole-based Tiger Lily 

Occasions specialises in 

hiring those little extras 

which make your 

wedding stand out from the 

crowd. Services range 

from chair covers, centrepieces 

and accessories to chocolate 

fountain and pick ’n’ mix 

hire. They even have giant 

garden games. 

Call 0784 5000 454 or visit 

www.tigerlilyoccasions.com. 

WWW.TIGERLILYOCCASIONS.COM 

Email: TIGERLILYOCCASIONS@LIVE.CO.UK 

PHONE: 07845 000454 

Setting the 

Providing style and elegance 

for any size wedding, 

Bournemouth-based EK 

Creations pride themselves on the 

quality of their product and the 

expertise of their service. 

Their decorative chair covers and 

extensive array of coloured chair 

sashes allow them to create a 

unique feel to your special day. 

They also make bespoke, handcrafted 

stationery and have a 

Beautiful chair covers & sashes, 

elegant table decorations & bespoke 

wedding stationery 

Tel: 07584 495639 

sales@ekcreations.co.uk 

www.ekcreations.co.uk 

beautiful range of elegant table 

centrepieces and decorations for those 

finishing touches. 


or visit www.ekcreations.co.uk. 


Your One Stop Wedding Shop 

scene... 

Balloons • Chair Covers & Sashes 

Sweet Carts • Table Centrepieces 

Table Linen • Gifts and much, much more... 

One stop party and wedding shop Balloon a Room Events is one 

of Dorset's finest wedding and event decor companies. The 

family-run business, based in Corfe Mullen, Broadstone and 

Poole, prides itself on providing exactly what the customer 

desires or dreams of and no job is too big or too small. 

There are balloons, chair covers, sweet carts and much more - and there’s 

a huge selection of special touches to buy too, from confetti to attendants’ 

gifts. Consultations are free and you can see everything for yourself at the 

showroom in Poole. 

For more details, call 01202 621550 or visit www.balloonaroom.co.uk 

Tel: 01202 621550 

www.balloonaroom.co.uk 

Unit 3, Birch Copse, Technology Road, 

Poole, Dorset BH17 7FH 



dreamvenues 

▼The Italian Villa at Compton Acres, Poole 

PHOTO BY SAMANTHA DAVID PHOTOGEAPHY 

PHOTO BY DAVID 

WHEELER PHOTOGRAPHY 

Set against the dramatic backdrop of 10 

acres of manicured gardens, the Italian 

Villa has recently been voted the most 

popular wedding venue in the International 

Wedding Expert Awards. 

Unique in the UK, the multi-award winning 

Italian Villa offers couples three floors 

of unrivalled elegance to lay on their 

dream wedding. 

This luxury venue, which has also been voted 

Dorset’s Best Wedding Venue, is licensed for 

civil ceremonies and partnerships. And with a 

balcony overlooking the stunning Italian Garden, 

you can be sure your wedding photos will be 

outstanding. 

Book the Italian Villa and the whole venue is 

yours exclusively for your entire celebration. 

You are the centre of attention and the staff’s sole priority. And the team’s 

impeccable standards ensure you and your guests are treated like the VIPs you 

are. There’s direct access into the spectacular Italian Garden and the villa can 

cater for intimate wedding receptions for 60, or can provide a relaxed setting for 

up to 180. 

Well appointed with lifts to all three floors, air conditioning, built-in sound 

systems and speakers, a stage, and audiovisual screens, the villa’s superb 

facilities enable couples to create a truly memorable occasion. 

Catering is provided by award-winning Beales Gourmet, whose talented team 

chefs offer spectacular cuisine: the perfect match for your magical wedding day… 

See the venue for yourself at their Wedding Open Days on Sunday, January 

10, Sunday, May 8 and Sunday, October 23 from 11am to 3pm or, for more 

details, call 01202 816074 or visit www.the-italian-villa.co.uk 



▼ The Custom House, Poole 

A unique venue for the perfect wedding reception 

Apanoramic view over Poole Harbour and Quay is just one of the 

attractions of the historic Custom House as your reception venue. Its 

elevated position commands uninterrupted sea views. Elegant decor 

complements its beamed ceilings and character nooks and crannies. 

Sumptuous food, fine wines and friendly staff ensure both you and your 

guests will be well looked after. 

And, as a bonus, for all but the most intimate weddings, the whole of the 

building is yours for the day. Your guests can meet in the informal downstairs 

cafe bar, with an al fresco patio for fine days, then dine in the elegant dining 

room, spilling out onto the wonderful sweeping outside staircase which is 

perfect for photographs. 

The Custom House has been perfecting its wedding service for nearly 20 years 

and offers couples the chance to build whatever they like into their reception. 

Couples are invited to discuss their requirements over a cup of coffee and staff 

are happy to organise cake, flowers and evening entertainment if required. 

Up to 60 guests can be catered for a sit-down meal, or 120 for a buffet. For 

more intimate receptions, the Vaulted Room upstairs seats 30 for a meal or 50 

for a buffet. 

For more information, contact 01202 676767 or visit the website at 

www.customhouse.co.uk. 

Choice of 2 rooms • Wedding breakfasts up to 70 

Evening receptions up to 120 • Stunning sea views 

The Quay, Poole, BH15 1HP 

TELEPHONE 01202 676767 

email: weddings@custhouse.co.uk • www.customhouse.co.uk 



▼Hotel Miramar, Bournemouth 

dreamvenues 

▼ Hooke Court, near Beaminster 

Hooke Court offers a choice of four fabulous 

venues for your marriage ceremony and 

wedding reception. 

With a choice of historic or contemporary rooms 

they can help you plan your wedding to your own 

personal style. Whether it’s an intimate candlelit 

ceremony for 20 guests or a grand affair for 200 

friends and family they can assist you to make 

your dream wedding a reality. 

Set in beautiful grounds, Hooke Court offers a 

myriad of stunning locations to capture your 

cherished memories, from a quiet romantic 

moment overlooking the lake to a treasured photo 

with all of your family and friends gathered in 

front of the beautiful 14th century Manor House. 


Whether you’re planning an intimate 

ceremony and reception for 25 guests or 

a lavish wedding for 130, friendly staff at 

the gracious Edwardian Hotel Miramar will ensure 

that no detail is overlooked. 

The country house hotel has one of the most 

spectacular vantage points in Bournemouth, 

looking across sweeping lawns to the glittering 

waters of the bay and providing a perfect 

backdrop for photographs. Three of the 

hotel’s rooms are licensed for civil weddings, 

two of which have stunning sea views. The 

Miramar can also offer outside weddings on 

the lawn overlooking the bay. The highly 

experienced banqueting team, led by an 

award-winning chef, will be delighted to help 

you plan your special day, from your choice of 

menu to the seating arrangements and from 

your floral decorations to those little individual 

touches which make the day special to you. 

Hotel Director David Bailey says: ‘We have an 

enviable reputation as one of Bournemouth’s 

foremost wedding venues. Our aim is to leave you 

free to enjoy every moment – confident that every 

detail will be handled with care.’ 

For more details, call 01202 556581 or visit the 

website at www.miramar-bournemouth.com. 

A member of the management team will help you 

plan the whole day, ensuring you make the most 

of all Hooke Court has to offer. They will also be 

on hand until the last guest leaves to ensure that 

you can relax and enjoy your special day. 

Perhaps you might like to extend your 

celebrations by offering your guests the 

opportunity to stay the night at Hooke Court, 

which can be hired exclusively. 

Call 01308 862260 to arrange a visit to see all 

that Hooke Court has to offer or visit 

www.venuehiredorset.co.uk. 

Bournemouth’s Country 

House by the Sea... 

Weddings & Special 

Occasions 

The perfect venue for love, 

romance and celebration. 


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 

PHOTO BY 


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 

separate cubicles, all with porcelain 

WCs, and a built-in CD player allows 

you to select any music of your choice. 

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. 


Hire a premium mobile bar 

service for your wedding 

reception (or even your hen 

party), complete with the 

perfect drinks package for the occasion. 

Family-run Tom’s Bespoke Bartending 

Co will provide impeccable service and 

incredible drinks made only with 

premium products at an affordable price. 

...and 

now for something 

completely different 

Aly and Julia are two friends who have 

collected authentic beautiful teapots, 

cups, saucers, plates, milk jugs and 

cake stands over many years. 

Blissfully Vintage, based in Bournemouth, has 

been successfully supplying vintage and 

country-inspired weddings and celebratory 

events since 2013 and their stunning vintage 

china will add colour and interest to your 

reception – as well as providing an unfailing 

talking point. 

For more details and a free, no obligation 

quote, call 07806 356633 (Aly) or 07889 

905185 (Julia) or visit 

www.blissfullyvintage.com. 

Professional bartenders ensure these 

bespoke mobile bars offer the same 

quality, service and experience as 

you’d expect from your favourite bar 

on the high street. 

For details, call 07572 

857768 or visit 

www.tomsbespokebartendingco.com. 

Planning your 

Special Day? 

dream 

wEDDINGS 

...what more 

could you want? 

Follow 

us on: 


The perfect place to hire 

pretty vintage china for your 

special celebration. 

Contact Aly- 07806 356633 

or Julia - 07889 905185 

hello@blissfullyvintage.com 

www.blissfullyvintage.com 

Based in Dorset 


Bournemouth 

R E G I S T R A T I O N S E R V I C E 

TOWN HALL, BOURNEMOUTH 

Choice of 3 rooms - Monday to Saturday Mid-day 

Council Chamber - available 7 days a week. 

Telephone: 01202 451510 

www.bournemouth.gov.uk/living 

e-mail: registrars@bournemouth.gov.uk 


dreamvenues 

▼Kingston Country Courtyard, Corfe Castle 

DUDSBURY 

Golf Club • Hotel and Spa 

Your perfect day awaits... 

A choice of 2 fabulous venues with a picturesque 

backdrop for your ceremony & reception 

Kingston Country Courtyard gives you a taste of farmstead life in an 

area of outstanding natural beauty. Set on a ridge amid the beautiful 

Purbeck hills, it offers spectacular views stretching from historic Corfe 

Castle to the north to the Isle of Wight to the east. Nearby are the golden 

sands of Studland Bay and Kimmeridge and the Dorset Coastal Path. 

The beautifully restored 16th century barn is a blank canvas on which 

couples can create their unique 

wedding day. It is licensed for civil 

ceremonies, so you can marry outside 

under a pretty pagoda or inside the 

barn itself. 

Wedding co-ordinators Bobbie and Lara 

work closely with each individual 

couple’s ideas and the barn is hired for 

two and a half days, so there’s plenty of 

time to decorate however you choose. 

The high-beamed barn can be simply 

strung with fairy lights and ivy or 

adorned with handmade pompoms, 

lanterns, vintage china, seaside themes, 

rustic hay bales or simply clever 

lighting of the Purbeck stone walls. 

On-site caterers have over 25 years’ 

experience and each menu is tailored to personal tastes. 

With 25 en suite rooms available for guests, often the celebrations start the 

day before – and there’s a deluxe honeymoon suite for the happy couple. 

For further details call 01929 481066 or visit the website at 

www.kingstoncountrycourtyard.com. 

64 Christchurch Road, 

Ferndown, Dorset BH22 8ST 

Telephone: 01202 593499 or 

Email: reception@dudsburygolfclub.co.uk 



Your ceremony 

in Southampton 

Licensed Venue 

or Register Office 

Weddings, Civil Partnerships 

and Renewal of Vows 

Tel: 02380 915327 

email: registrars@southampton.gov.uk 

www.southampton.gov.uk 

6a, Bugle Street, Southampton 

Classic Fireworks believe in 

giving a personal service and 

with our guidance and skill we 

aim to offer whatever you 

require to create a spectacular 

display. 

We can provide for any event 

from Weddings and Civil 

Ceremonies to corporate and 

other important events. 

We also specialise in low 

noise fireworks to suit the 

most sensitive of locations. 

• Indoor and outdoor flames 

• Confetti cannons 

• Snow and bubble machines 

are also available. 

Lance work fire pictures are 

available - initials, red hearts, 

champagne bottles and more... 


Nothing entertains like a 

firework display and the 

stunning colours and 

effects will captivate all 

your guests and make a 

memorable ending to the most 

perfect of days. 

Classic Fireworks provide 

breathtaking professional firework 

displays, designed to your specific 

requirements. 

They can choreograph a display to 

music so you can enjoy the 

fireworks dancing to your favourite 

song or even light up the sky with 

lance work of your names, heart, 

initials or champagne bottle. 

And their dancing flames 

choreographed to music are 10 

metres to 15 metres high. 

Worried about the noise? They 

specialise in low noise fireworks to 

suit even the most sensitive locations 

- and if you want a white wedding, they can even Safety is paramount: all staff members are highly 

provide snow. 

trained and experienced and the company is a member 

Classic Fireworks pride themselves on providing a first of the Explosives Industry Group and the British 

class tailor made service offering value for money. As Pyrotechnics Association. 

a nationwide company they cover Dorset and For more details, call 0844 800 8542 or visit the 

Hampshire with no extra costs. 

website at www.classicfireworks.co.uk. 

...and finally! 

Sharp 9 duo have been providing 

stylish, smooth entertainment at 

weddings for over 10 years. They 

can offer live music for your 

ceremony, drinks reception and wedding 

breakfast as background entertainment or 

have a lively evening set to get your 

guests dancing. 

For more details, call Claire 07976 

632766 or Ben 07985 457333 or visit 

www.sharp9duo.co.uk. 

All the atmosphere 

and excitement of a 

real casino with 

none of the risks, that’s 

what’s on offer from 

Absolute Fun Casino who 

will bring quality full size 

blackjack and roulette 

tables (staffed by 

professional croupiers) to 

your reception, where all 

your guests are given a 

piece of personalised fun 

money with your names, 

date and venue printed 

on it. 

Your guests bring this to the gaming tables where they will be taught to play and be entertained. 

This is a great icebreaker which will bring your families and friends together and the winner will 

receive a framed certificate and a bottle of Champagne. 

Call 01202 600699 or visit www.absolutefuncasino.co.uk for more information. 

▼ 

From fun photo booths to an 

all-female team of DJs to get 

the party going, Bournemouth-based 217 

Events has 20 years of experience in 

delivering the perfect atmosphere for your 

wedding reception. 

For more details, call 01202 431993 or 

visit the website at www.217Events.com. 


Hampshire 

R E G I S T R A T I O N 

S E R V I C E S 

ALDERSHOT 

30, Grosvenor Rd. Aldershot GU11 3EB 

ALTON 

4, Queen's Rd. Alton GU34 1HU 

ANDOVER 

Beech Hurst, Weyhill Rd. Andover SP10 3AJ 

BASINGSTOKE 

Goldings, London Rd. Basingstoke RG21 4AN 

EASTLEIGH 

Eastleigh Library, 1st Floor Swan Centre, Eastleigh SO50 5SF 

FAREHAM 

4, Osborn Rd. South, Fareham PO16 7DG 

GOSPORT 

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport PO12 1BT 

HAVANT 

1st Floor, Havant Library, Meridian Centre, Havant PO9 1UN 

LYMINGTON 

Lymington Library, North Close, Lymington SO41 9BW 

PETERSFIELD 

Petersfield Library, 27, The Square, Petersfield GU32 3HH 

RINGWOOD 

Ringwood Gateway, The Furlong, Ringwood BH24 1AT 

ROMSEY 

Romsey Town Hall, 1, Market Place, Romsey SO51 8YZ 

TOTTON 

Totton Hub, 1, High Street, Totton SO40 8YZ 

WINCHESTER 

Station Hill, Winchester SO23 8TJ 

For more information please contact us on 0845 603 5637 

or visit www3.hants.gov.uk/registration.htm

Dream Weddings Directory • www.dreamwed.co.uk For more information on advertising call 01626 873364 

BALLOONS CHOCOLATE FOUNTAINS MOTHER OF THE BRIDE 

PHOTOGRAPHERS 

BALLOONS, PARTY GOODS 

& BRIDAL FAVOURS 

• BALLOON DECOR BY 

CERTIFIED ARTISTS 

• RIBBONS 

• CHAMPAGNE BUBBLES 

• TABLE CONFETTI 

& DIAMONDS 

• BOXES & NETS 

• ALMONDS, 

HEART SHAPED 

CHOCOLATES & MINTS 

• CAKE TOPPERS 

• TABLE SWAGGING 

• CARD POST BOXES 

TEL/FAX: 01803 214281 

email: enquiries@samms.co.uk 

www.samms.co.uk 

CAKES 

FIREWORKS 

Rosemary 

Ringrose 

Handbags 

Exclusive range of 

handmade bags using 

fine silks, satins & leather. 

Colour matching and 

bespoke service available. 

For an appointment please call 

01202 738064 

www.roseringrosehandbags.co.uk 

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT 

Speciality, Celebration 

Cakes & Sugarcraft 

Live jazz 

& popular 

music 

for your 

wedding 

South Street, 

Sherborne, 

Dorset, DT9 3LU 

Tel: 01935 816245 

email: info@filigranacakes.co.uk 

filigranacakes.co.uk 

Claire: 07976 632766 

Ben: 07985 457333 

www.sharp9duo.co.uk 

FLOWERS 

TOASTMASTER 

LET THIS 

SPACE WORK 

FOR YOU 

FULL COLOUR 

ADVERTISING 

FOR AS LITTLE AS 

£99.00 

FOR 6 MONTHS 

tel: 01626 873364 

for details or visit 

www.dreamwed.co.uk 

A bespoke floristry service for 

something "a little bit different" 

Tel: 01202 709470 

288 Sandbanks Road 

Lilliput Poole BH14 8HU 

www.signature-flowers.com 

Do you want a perfect day? 

Brian is one of the highest 

quality toastmasters and will 

ensure your day is 

well organized 

01202 

824885 

brian.handsandfeet@talktalk.net 

www.toastmasterdorset.co.uk 


index to advertisers 

BRIDAL ACCESSORIES 

Tiaras & Crowns..................................................17 

BRIDAL FASHION 

Anya Bridal Couture ............................................13 

Bliss Bridal Boutique ...........................................14 

Chameleon...........................................................12 

Cherished Bridal Wear.........................................16 

Cloud Nine...........................................................18 

Courtyard Bridal ..................................................16 

Cupid’s Corner.....................................................12 

Isobel’s ................................................................19 

Minster Designs ..................................................17 

New Forest & Dorset Brides................................12 

Wedding Time .....................................................16 

BRIDESMAIDS 

Fab Frocks...........................................................18 

CAKES 

Bournemouth Cake Boutique...............................26 

The Cake Agency.................................................27 

Coast Cakes.........................................................27 

Filigrana...............................................................63 

FIREWORKS 

Classic Fireworks.................................................60 

Please mention Dream Weddings magazine when replying to advertisements 

FOLLOW 

US ON: 

dates for your diary 

JANUARY 10: RNLI College, Poole (10am to 3pm, contact 

01202 533014 or www.bellissimo-weddings.co.uk) 

JANUARY 10: Rhinefield House, New Forest (10.30am to 3pm, 

contact 01903 366163 or www.stylisheventsfayres.com) 

JANUARY 10: The Italian Villa, Compton Acres, Poole (11am to 

3pm, contact 01202 816074 or www.the-italian-villa.co.uk) 

JANUARY 10: Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth (11am to 3.30pm, 

contact 01329 227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk) 

JANUARY 16 & 17: Dudsbury Golf Club, Ferndown (11am to 

4pm, contact 01202 593499 or www.dudsburygolfclub.co.uk) 

JANUARY 17: The Solent Hotel & Spa, Whiteley (11am to 

3.30pm, contact 01329 227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk) 

JANUARY 17: Norfolk Arms Hotel, Arundel 

(11am to 3.30pm, contact 023 80560073 or 

www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk) 

JANUARY 23: Lord Bute Hotel,Christchurch (11am to 4pm, 

contact 01425 278884) 

JANUARY 24: Meon Valley Marriott Hotel & Country Club, 

Southampton (11am to 3.30pm, contact 02380 560073 or 


JANUARY 24: Botleigh Grange Hotel, Southampton (10.30am 

to 3pm, contact 01903 366163 or www.stylisheventsfayres.com) 

JANUARY 24: Digby Hall, Sherborne (11am to 3.30pm, contact 

01935 425331 or www.abcweddingdresses.co.uk) 

JANUARY 31: Holiday Inn, Southsea (11am to 3.30pm, contact 

02380 560073 or www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk) 

JANUARY 31: De Vere New Place, Shirrel Heath (11.30am to 

4pm, contact 01329 227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk) 

JANUARY 31: Freshwater Beach Holiday Park, Bridport (11am 

to 3pm, contact 01308 897317 or www.freshwaterbeach.co.uk) 

FEBRUARY 6: Bridal Boot Sale, Methodist Church Hall, 

Verwood (12noon to 3pm, contact 0747 2550567 or 

www.v-a-productions.com) 

FEBRUARY 6 & 7: The Olive Bowl Venue, Gillingham, Dorset 

(10am to 4pm, contact -01747 822775 or 

www.theolivebowl.co.uk) 

FEBRUARY 7: Chilworth Manor, Southampton 


www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk) 

FEBRUARY 13: Bridal Boot Sale, Blandford Corn Exchange 

(12noon to 3pm, contact 0747 2550567 or 

www.v-a-productions.com) 

FLOWERS 

Beyond the Gate Florist .......................................24 

Nomad ................................................................24 

FOOD & DRINK 

Beales Gourmet...................................................53 

Chocolate Fountains of Dorset ............................63 

Tom’s Bespoke Bartending Co.............................56 

LUXURY LOOS 

Temporary Toilets................................................56 

MEN’S FORMAL HIRE 

Chas Baker ..........................................................20 

Gibb Menswear ...................................................20 

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE 

Charisma of Fawley .............................................36 

Fab Frocks...........................................................38 

Irene ....................................................................36 

La Belle................................................................38 

Rosemary Ringrose Handbags............................63 

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT 

217 Events...........................................................60 

Absolute Fun Casino............................................63 

Sharp 9 Jazz........................................................63 

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

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. 

FEBRUARY 14: Holiday Inn, Tichfield, Fareham 



FEBRUARY 14: Portsmouth Guildhall (11am to 3.30pm, 


FEBRUARY 19 to 21: Bournemouth International Centre, (5pm 

to 8pm Friday; 10am to 5pm Saturday; 10am to 4pm Sunday, 

contact 01202 456592 or www.bic.co.uk) 

FEBRUARY 21: Old Thorns Manor, Liphook (11am to 3.30pm, 


FEBRUARY 21: Kingston Maurward House, Dorset (11am to 

3pm, contact 01305 215050) 

FEBRUARY 21: Hallmark Hotels Open Day, Westcliffe Hotel, 

Durley Chine Road, Bournemouth (11am to 3pm, contact 

01202 751000) 

FEBRUARY 28: Holiday Inn, Eastleigh (11am to 3.30pm, 

contact 02380 560073 or 


FEBRUARY 28: Holiday Inn, Winchester (11am to 3pm, 

contact www.littlestarevents.co.uk) 

FEBRUARY 28: Norton Park Hotel, Winchester (11am to 

3.30pm, contact 0843 2892742 or 

www.captivatingevents.co.uk) 

FEBRUARY 28: Lulworth Castle, Lulworth (10.30am to 4pm, 

contact 01929 400352 or www.lulworth.com) 

FEBRUARY 28: Thistle Hotel, Poole (1pm to 4pm, contact 0747 

2550567 or www.v-a-productions.com) 

MARCH 6: Upton House, Upton Country Park (11am to 4pm, 

contact 01202 262753 or www.uptoncountrypark.org) 

MARCH 13: Stansted House, Rowlands Castle (11am to 

3.30pm, contact 01329 227437 or 


MARCH 13: Ocean View Hotel, Bournemouth (12noon to 4pm, 

contact 07427 1622832 or www.cjpromotions-events.co.uk) 

MARCH 20: Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton (11am to 

3.30pm, contact 01329 227437 or 


MARCH 20: The Winchester Royal Hotel, Winchester 



PHOTOGRAPHERS 

AJ Photographic..................................................58 

CP Photography ..................................................63 

Holly Marsh Photography ...................................63 

Linus Moran Photography...................................24 

Paradox Photography..........................................26 

REGISTER OFFICES 

Bournemouth Registration Service .....................58 

Hampshire Registration Services........................62 

Poole Guildhall ....................................................58 

Southampton Register Office ..............................60 

SPECIAL TOUCHES 

Balloon a Room...................................................51 

Blissfully Vintage.................................................57 

EK Creations........................................................50 

Keep it Sweet.......................................................28 

Samms ................................................................63 

Tiger Lily Occasions ............................................50 

TOASTMASTER 

Brian Cox.............................................................63 

VENUES 

Ampfield Golf & Country Club.............................52 

Athelhampton House...........................................48 

The Custom House..............................................54 

Dudsbury Golf Club.............................................59 

MARCH 20: Highcliffe Castle, Highcliffe (10.30am to 4pm, 

contact 01425 278807 or www.highcliffecastle.co.uk) 

FJB Hotels ........................................................OBC 

Grand Harbour Hotel ...........................................47 

The Grange at Oborne .........................................48 

Hallmark Hotels..................................................IFC 

Highcliffe Castle...................................................42 

HMS Warrior 1860 ..............................................44 

Holiday Inn.........................................................IBC 

Hooke Court ........................................................54 

Hotel Miramar .....................................................55 

The Italian Villa....................................................52 

Kingston Country Courtyard................................59 

Kingston Maurward.............................................49 

Lord Bute.............................................................46 

Meon Valley Marriott Hotel................................IBC 

Merley House ......................................................44 

Marsham Court ................................................. 53 

Oakley Hall...........................................................47 

Old Thorns...........................................................46 

Playgolf Bournemouth.........................................49 

University of Winchester .....................................48 

WEDDING FAIRS 

Bellissimo............................................................42 

BIC Wedding Show .............................................41 

Little Star Events .................................................40 

PMN Wedding Fairs.............................................40 

Stylish Events......................................................41 

VA Productions....................................................40 

Wedding Exhibition Promotions..........................42 

MARCH 20: Alton House Hotel, Alton (11am to 3pm, contact 

www.littlestarevents.co.uk) 

APRIL 10: Macdonald Botley Park Hotel (11am to 3.30pm, 


APRIL 17: Old Alresford Place, Alresford (11am to 3pm, 

contact www.littlestarevents.co.uk) 

APRIL 17: Macdonald Elmers Court Hotel, Lymington (11am to 

3.30pm, contact 01329 227437 or 


APRIL 24: Novotel Hotel, Southampton (11am to 3.30pm, 

contact 02380 560073 or 


MAY 1: Beach Weddings, Bournemouth (10am to 4pm, contact 

01202 788275 or www.beachweddingsbournemouth.co.uk) 

MAY 8: Royal Marines’ Museum, Portsmouth (11am to 

3.30pm, contact 01329 227437 or 


MAY 14: Bridal Boot Sale, Digby Hall, Sherborne (12noon to 

3pm, contact 0747 2550567 or www.v-a-productions.com) 

MAY 15: Hilton at The Ageas Bowl, Southampton (11am to 

3.30pm, contact 01329 227437 or 


MAY 22: Bridal Boot Festival, Dewflock Farm, Dorchester 

(12noon to 3pm, contact 0747 2550567 or www.v-aproductions.com) 

MAY 29: Milton Abbey, Blandford (12noon to 3pm, contact 

0747 2550567 or www.v-a-productions.com) 

JUNE 12: Rhinefield House, New Forest (10.30am to 3pm, 

contact 01903 366163 or www.stylisheventsfayres.com) 

JUNE 12: Redhouse Museum & Gardens, Christchurch 

(12noon to 3pm, contact 0747 2550567 or www.v-aproductions.com) 

JUNE 19: Holiday Inn, Tichfield, Fareham (11am to 3.30pm, 

contact 02380 560073 or 


JUNE 26: Wilkswood (11am to 3pm, contact 01202 533014 or 

www.wilkswood.co.uk) 

JUNE 26: Holiday Inn, Eastleigh (11am to 3.30pm, contact 

02380 560073 or www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk) 

JULY 3: Cams Hall, Fareham (11am to 3.30pm, contact 01329 

227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk) 

calling wedding fair organisers 

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

issue of Dream Weddings magazine should email editorial@countymagazines.co.uk by June 30.

Dream Weddings Magazine - Dorset & Hampshire

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