Dream Weddings Magazine - Dorset & Hampshire - issue.35

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

dream 

WEDDINGS 

in Dorset 

& Hampshire 

SPRING / SUMMER 2017 • ISSUE 35 

Stealing 

the scene 

Check out our great 

choice of venues 

HOToff 

the 

Catwalk 

Your first look at 

the sizzling 2017 

bridal collections 

DON’T MISS OUR 

FANTASTIC WEBSITE: 

WWW.DREAM-WEDDINGS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK 

Also find us on: 

SNAP 

HAPPY! 

Yummy 

Mummy! 

Breathtaking 

fashions for 

Mums and guests 

Now here’s 

the plan... 

Step-by-step 

guide to the 

perfect day 

Retro black & white photos 

capture all the fun of the day

contents 

Y congratulations... 

ou’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 P2-15 

etiquette to up-to-date fashions in flowers. 

DESIGNER 

DAZZLE 

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! 

COVER PICTURE: GOWN FROM THE ALFRED ANGELO 2017 COLLECTION 

AT CHERISHED BRIDAL WEAR IN BOURNEMOUTH AND BRIDAL & 

BALL IN WEYMOUTH 

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

advertisements and editorial in this publication, County Magazines Ltd 

cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused directly or 

indirectly by the contents of this magazine. The views expressed are not 

necessarily those of the publisher or editor. While every care is taken with 

material submitted for publication, no liability for loss or damage can be 

accepted by the publisher or its agents. 

FOLLOW 

US ON: 

EDITOR 

ADVERTISING 

ACCOUNTS 

DESIGN 

DISTRIBUTION 

JULIA SNOW 

HELEN JOHNSON, 

EVE SZEREMETA 

MADELINE RIGGS 

TOM HUTTON 

JANE GREY 

PUBLISHER COUNTY MAGAZINES LTD, 

THE GRANGE, STOKEINTEIGNHEAD, 

NEWTON ABBOT, DEVON TQ12 4QH. 

TELEPHONE: 01626 873364 

EMAIL: ENQUIRIES@COUNTYMAGAZINES.CO.UK 

www.dream-weddings-magazine.co.uk 

Visit our website at 


2-15 Glamour & glitz 

Stunning international bridal collections 

for the beautiful brides of 2017 

16-17 Groom with a view 

Well groomed looks for your men, from 

traditional morning suits to classic kilts 

18-19 Truly scrumptious 

Sensational bridal flowers and cakes that 

taste every bit as good as they look 

20-21 Snapshot of the day 

Don’t miss out on black & white photos 

for a contemporary take on the day 

23-29 Plan ahead 

Our step-by-step guide to everything you 

need to know – and then some... 

SPRING / SUMMER 2017 • ISSUE 35 

P20-21 - GRAB THEIR ATTENTION! ...IN BLACK & WHITE! 

P18-19 ...TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS 

30-31 All’s fair... 

Check out the best of the counties’ 

wedding fairs at a venue near you 

32-35 Mamma mia! 

Glamorous new collections for Mums of 

the Bride and Groom – and your guests 

36-51 Picture the scene 

Venues to suit every bride’s style and 

budget and dressing them to perfection 

52-53 Time to party 

Play the tables at a fun casino – and round 

off the fun with dazzling fireworks 

54-56 Brides’ directory 

Our handy classified index, plus those 

all-important Spring 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

PICTURED: BENJAMIN ROBERTS AT 

A BRIDE 2 BEE IN SOUTHAMPTON 

Spring 

into the 

New 

Wave a fond farewell to 2016 and open 

your arms to the promise of a brand 

new year – and, if you’re one of the 

lucky brides with a wedding scheduled 

for 2017, savour the moment. 

Among all the delicious decisions you’re going to have 

to make about your big day, there can’t be one which 

offers more unadulterated pleasure than deciding what 

you’re going to wear. 

Sleek and chic or all frills and flounces? Strapless 

or illusion neckline? Understated or glamorously 

glittering? Lace, tulle, organza, silk, satin, chiffon, 

brocade, taffeta? 

Take time to make the right choice for you – 

don’t be persuaded into buying a dress you’re 

not completely convinced about and don’t 

be afraid to ask for help and advice 

from the friendly staff in Dorset 

and Hampshire’s bridal 

shops. 

Enjoy! 

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

Year 


4 • 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 

Razzle

PICTURED: ALFRED ANGELO AT BRIDAL & BALL IN WEYMOUTH 

AND CHERISHED BRIDAL WEAR IN BOURNEMOUTH 

dazzle’em! 

Glamour and glitz: if you’ve 

always dreamed of being a 

movie star, your wedding 

day is your time to steal the 

spotlight. The aisle is your red carpet 

as you make your entrance, 

shimmering centre stage in a 

sparkling gown to match the sparkle 

in your eyes. 


Amazing 

lace 

When it comes to choosing the most special dress of 

your life, nothing says ‘Here Comes the Bride’ quite like 

lace. Antique or modern, fine-textured Chantilly lace 

or more dramatic Guipure lace, it weaves a spell of 

romance around its wearer. 

And it’s versatile enough to cover every fashion requirement, 

trimming illusion necklines, emphasising dipping backs and 

covering a froth of tulle underskirts with a perfectly beautiful overlay. 

Whatever style of dress you choose for your wedding, from a 

confection of tulle to a sleek, slim silhouette, lace will transform it to 

a fairytale gown. 

PICTURED: NICOLE SPOSE AT CHERISHED 

BRIDAL WEAR IN BOURNEMOUTH 



ELLA ROSA AT 

NEW FOREST & 

DORSET BRIDES 

IN HIGHCLIFFE 

Pile on 

the 

drama 

In so many ways your wedding is a like a 

theatrical production with the beautiful 

heroine and the handsome hero coming 

together for their happy-ever-after in the last 

scene of the play. Cue the ceremony, the sets, 

the audience - and, of course, the costumes. 

If you like to play the drama queen, this is an 

opportunity like no other. Embrace the moment, 

stand tall in your gorgeous gown and drink in the 

love and good wishes bombarding you from 

all sides. 

It may be the last scene of one play, but there’s a 

whole new future awaiting you in Part II. 

LEFT: KENNETH WINSTON AT 

NEW FOREST & DORSET 

BRIDES IN HIGHCLIFFE 


ABOVE & BELOW: KENNETH WINSTON AT NEW 

FOREST & DORSET BRIDES IN HIGHCLIFFE 

ELLA ROSA AT NEW FOREST & 

DORSET BRIDES IN HIGHCLIFFE 


PICTURED: STELLA YORK AT 

WEDDING TIME IN DORCHESTER 

Letthe 

quest 

begin... 

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

It’s easy to feel completely bamboozled by the huge 

choice of wedding dresses out there at a boutique near 

you. Slim and slinky, chic and elegant, a confection of 

tulle? Off-the-shoulder, halter neck, spaghetti-strapped, 

strapless, backless? In virginal white, ivory, champagne, 

the palest of baby pinks, blush..? 

If you’re beginning to panic, don’t. Just get out there and 

start looking! Your wedding dress is the most exciting dress 

you will ever buy and most brides will tell you they knew 

they’d found the right one as soon as they tried it on. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for the advice from the experts in the 

shop. They know their dresses and they know what’s going 

to suit your shape and style. 

Good luck! 

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

BEAUTIFUL WEDDING GOWNS 

BRIDESMAIDS 

MOTB • ACCESSORIES 

Boutique bridal salon & men's formalwear 

Established 1983 

15 High East Street, Dorchester DT1 1HH 

Tel: 01305 269555 • www.wedding-time.com 

5-7 Warsash Road, Warsash, Southampton SO31 9HW 

Tel: 01489 557553 • www.abride2bee.co.uk 

Stunning gowns from 

Kenneth Winston 

including Ella Rosa 

and Femme for the 

curvier bride 

Something for every 

budget Sizes 6 to 34 

Appointments only 

Tel: 01425 616939 or 

078513 85116 

www.newforestbrides.co.uk 

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

Bridal, Bridesmaids, Prom & Accessories 

9 Abbotsbury Road, Weymouth DT4 OAD 

Tel: 01305 773940 • www.bridalandball.co.uk 



Cute 

and 

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

or 12. So what? That engagement ring 

on your finger is proof positive that your 

husband-to-be loves your sexy, 

voluptuous curves. Beauty comes in all 

shapes and sizes and brides with generously 

curvaceous figures needn’t feel nervous about 

choosing their bridal gowns. Most collections 

come in sizes up to 30 and some collections, 

specially designed to flatter fuller figures start at 

size 16 and go up to 36. 

LEFT: SONSIE AT BRIDAL & BALL 

IN WEYMOUTH 

RIGHT: FEMME AT NEW FOREST & 

DORSET BRIDES IN HIGHCLIFFE 


PICTURED & INSETS RIGHT: 

STELLA YORK AT WEDDING 

TIME IN DORCHESTER 

curvelicious! 

If you’re looking for a few pointers: 

• A streamlined design in a classically styled 

gown will elongate your figure 

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

tummy, and sleeves or a pretty wrap (so 

fashionable at the moment) will cover less 

than perfect arms. 

• Perfectly fitted underwear makes a huge 

difference, so invest in that before you start 

looking for your dress. 

• And finally, remember, every bride’s most 

beautiful accessory is her smile. If you’re 

happy and confident, you can’t help but 

be a beautiful bride. 


Top it off 

with a tiara 

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. 

Men's Formalwear & Boutique bridal Salon 

Established 1983 

15 High East Street, Dorchester DT1 1HH 

Tel: 01305 269555 • www.wedding-time.com 

www.tiarasandcrowns.net 


Man of the 

moment... 

Award-winning Dorchester boutique, 

Wedding Time, now has a fully stocked 

menswear department, offering not 

only a complete range of formal wear 

by Wilvorst for hire, but also their own slim fit 

suits both for hire and to buy. 

For details, call 01305 269555 or visit 

www.wedding-time.com. 

The men’s formal hire department at Chas 

H. Baker in Salisbury aims to fulfil the 

groom’s dream of wearing the perfect 

outfit. They set out to create a relaxing 

atmosphere where grooms and their partners can 

take time to select the look they want to achieve, 

considering their huge range of different styles 

from classic morning suits to their new blue and 

light grey lounge suits matched with a large range 

of waistcoats. 

The formal hire department also runs alongside 

the store’s wide range of quality menswear selling 

high quality brands such as Gant, Meyer, Barbour, 

Magee, Seidensticker/ Olymp shirts and a large 

selection of suits from Label and country jackets 

from Douglas and Graham, Gurteen and many 

more ranges. 

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 

For more information, call 01722 324234 

or visit the website at www.salisbury-suithire.com. 

PICTURED: PERFECTLY SUITED 

AT CHAS H BAKER 


Award winning bespoke wedding cakes 

tel. 01202 539120 | mob. 07789 000387 

email. coastcakes@btinternet.com 

www.coastcakes.co.uk 

www.LinusMoranPhotography.co.uk 

Subtle, Emotive & Raw 

Wedding Photography – 

Capturing the soul 

of your wedding. 

You can simply 

be yourself. 

A feast 

Anaturalistic approach and 

an exacting eye for detail 

marks out Bloom Floristry 

as one of the county’s top 

florists. Victoria and her team are 

genuinely inspired by the freshest, 

most perfect seasonal flowers and 

bring that enthusiasm to everything 

they do. 

For details, call 01929 426197 or 

visit www.bloomfloristry.com. 


for the eyes 

Make it a joined up wedding, where 

everything comes together in your 

own unique style. Of course you will 

have your favourite flowers, of course 

they will echo the colours the bridesmaids are 

wearing and of course the shape of your bouquet 

will complement the style of your dress. 

But it’s a great idea to bring your cake into the 

picture too. It’s the centrepiece of your reception 

after all, so give it a flavour of your style and 

your colours - it could even echo the flowers 

in your bouquet. 

CAKES PICTURED... 

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. 

CAKE BY FILIGRANA 


PHOTO BY HOLLY MARSH PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY ROSIE CUTBILL PHOTOGRAPHY 

Black& white... 

PHOTO BY STUART 

BRAMPTON PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY STUART BRAMPTON PHOTOGRAPHYY 

PHOTO BY 

ROSIE CUTBILL 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY CP PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY 

CP PHOTOGRAPHY 




BRAMPTON 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY 


It’s the new colour! 

PHOTO BY 

ROSIE CUTBILL 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY 

STUART BRAMPTON 

PHOTOGRAPHYY 

PHOTO BY HOLLY MARSH 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

PHOTO BY STUART BRAMPTON PHOTOGRAPHYY 


Real Weddings... 

We’d love to hear your stories HOUSE and see ADyour wedding pictures so we 

can share your joy with nervous FULL and PAGE excited brides-to-be everywhere. 

??? 

Did you have an amazing proposal? 

What are you planning for your wedding? 

Will it be here or abroad? 

Photos by Linus Moran Photography 

WEDDINGSW dream Contact us through our website at 


2 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 

Follow us on:

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 invitations... 

Your wedding stationery is the first clue day. 

your guests will have about the style of Invitations should be sent out six weeks before 

your wedding, so it’s worth taking time to the wedding (see panel for suggested 

choose something appropriate. wording), but many couples now use an early 

If you’re planning a big formal affair, stiff cards and warning system in the form of a Save the Date 

high quality envelopes will sing and dance card – particularly useful if your wedding is 

traditional glamour. 

planned for the busy summer months when 

If your wedding theme is vintage or rustic, some of your most desired guests are likely to 

you can go for floral decoration or vintage be taking holidays. 

lace embellishments. Chic and classical? Allow your stationer or printer about three 

Try contemporary stripes or bold colours. Going months to complete your order. 

for a theme? Then match your stationery to it. Apart from Save the Date and invitation 

Once you’re chosen the style, all your wedding cards, you’re going to need order of service 

stationery should be in keeping, presenting a sheets (one for each guest plus a few 

unified theme for the whole 

spares), menus for the reception, place cards, 

perhaps a table plan. 

It’s always a good idea to include maps with your 

invitations to help guests find their way easily, plus 

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. 

As a matter of courtesy, an invitation should be 

English Rose 

...and what they should say 

The traditional invitation, with the 

bride’s mother and father acting 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 and afterwards 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: 


pleasure of the company of 

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

at the marriage of their daughter 

Jennifer Anne (etc) 

Invitations for civil ceremonies and 

partnerships follow the same pattern. 

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. 

If you’re hosting the wedding 

yourselves, change the 

wording accordingly. 

Invitations to the evening reception 

only should be worded as follows: 

BELOW: Invitations by Hand 

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. 

“...It’s always a 

good idea to 

include maps with 

your invitations to 

help guests find 

their way easily...” 

LEFT: English Rose Wedding Stationery 

BELOW: Coral Wedding Invitations 



pleasure of your company at an 

evening reception to celebrate the 

marriage of their daughter Jennifer 

Anne to Mr Michael Jones at The 

County Hotel, Bournemouth on 

Saturday August 19th at 8pm 

RSVP 10 Marigold Gardens, 

Bournemouth 

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. 

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. 

Before the wedding, 

the best man should: 

• Make sure he keeps himself up to date with 

all the arrangements, liaising regularly with 

the groom and the bride’s family 

• Check the hiring, cleaning or collecting of suits 

for himself and the groom 

• Check the ordering of the flowers for the bride 

and her attendants, sprays for the two 

mothers and buttonholes for himself, the 

groom and other immediate members of the 

families 

• Check the printing and collection of order of 

service sheets and make sure that the ushers 

know what their duties are 

• Check arrangements for the first night and 

honeymoon are in place and that necessary 

passports and visas are in order 

• Organise the groom’s stag night - preferably 

some days in advance of the wedding - and 

make sure the groom gets home safely 

afterwards 

• Check the rings have been collected 

• Check the transport for the bridal party both to 

the ceremony and from there to the reception 

• Organise accommodation for the groom and 

himself the night before the wedding 

• He might also be asked to help with 

accommodation for guests and to liaise with 

live musicians or disco both before and during 

the reception. 

PHOTO BY 


On the day 

• Take the groom’s going away clothes to the 

reception venue 

• Check the service sheets are delivered to the 

church for the ushers to hand out to guests as 

they arrive 

• Make sure the groom arrives for the ceremony in 

good time 

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

the ceremony when they should be handed to 

the groom or the minister 

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

before the ceremony 

• Sign the register as a witness to the marriage 

• Get the bridal party together for photographs 

• Make sure the ushers arrange lifts to the 

reception for any guests who need them 

• Escort the bride and groom to the bridal car and 

then escort the bridesmaids to the reception 

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

one, assume those duties himself - these 

include announcing the speeches and the 

cutting of the cake 

• Reply to the groom’s toast to the bridesmaids 

with a brief, polite and - if possible - funny speech 

before reading out the cards and telegrams 

• Announce the newlyweds’ departure from the 

reception and ensure they have all 

their tickets and luggage 

• Make sure all the guests have 

transport to their accommodation 

• Arrange for any wedding presents 

taken to the reception to be taken 

home 

• Take the groom’s wedding clothes 

from the reception and, if necessary, 

return hired suits. 

The speech 

When it comes to the speech, all the 

advice is: Resist the temptation to 

tell any juicy stories whatsoever 

from the couple’s past. The escapades may have 

been hilarious, but now is not the time for 

embarrassing reminders about past romances 

or past quarrels between the happy pair. 

Because the best man’s speech is generally 

regarded as the prime entertainment at the 

reception, getting it together can be a daunting 

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

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

polite and sincere speech wishing the couple 

every happiness will fit the bill just as well. 

Unless you’re experienced at this sort of thing, 

write down exactly what you want to say and 

practise it. Don’t be tempted to wing it 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. 


• Keeps an eye on young attendants during the reception 

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 

• Helps the bride change from her wedding dress into her going away outfit 

• Arranges for the wedding dress to be returned home 


THE USHERS 

Church weddings normally have 

three ushers who should arrive at 

the church about 40 minutes before 

the wedding is due to start. 

Their principal job is to hand out the order 

of service sheets to guests as they arrive 

and show them to their seats - friends and 

family of the bride on the left of the 

aisle, friends and family of the groom on 

the right. 

They should make sure one of them pays 

special attention to the groom’s parents and 

the bride’s mother as they arrive and 

escorts them to their places. 

They should also help the best man 

organise lifts to the reception for guests 

who may need them. 

cut out and keep


Who does what 

- and when... 

If you think military precision takes the fun out of a 

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

day is that everyone knows where they’re supposed 

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

Your civil 

ceremony explained 

Gone are the days when a civil marriage was a 

hasty 15-minute affair, conducted in a small 

room at the register office. Nowadays many 

register offices have light, spacious ceremony 

rooms or suites accommodating reasonably large 

wedding parties and even a separate bride’s 

waiting room and garden for photographs. 

A large number of venues are now also licensed 

for civil ceremonies and the only major restriction 

is that no religious music or reading may be used. 

Otherwise, you may personalise your ceremony in 

terms of vows, readings, music, dedicating 

candles and lots more. The registrar will offer help 

and advice in planning your ceremony and will 

normally meet you a few weeks in advance to go 

over the format which could be: 

• Pre-arrival music 

• Entrance music 

• Welcome by the registrar 

• Reading 

• Legal declarations and vows 

• Promises and exchange of rings 

• Signing the register 

• Reading or music 

• Presentation of the certificate 

• Leaving music 

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

short ceremony at the register office to fulfil the 

legal requirements, you can have a further 

ceremony of your choosing in front of family and 

friends on the beach or in a woodland glade, for 

instance. 

Most registrars will try to be as flexible as 

possible to accommodate individual requests 

and they will lead you through your declarations, 

vows and promises. 

The one thing you must do is agree all of your 

selections in advance to ensure they comply with 

the law. 

GOODBYE AND 

GOOD LUCK 

The bride and groom should always be 

the first to leave the reception. 

The best man announces their 

departure after they have changed into 

their going away clothes and, if the 

bride is going to throw her bouquet, 

she should do so just before she 

leaves for her honeymoon. 

At the Reception 

The formal receiving line at the reception should take 

the following order: 

Bride’s parents 

Groom’s parents 

Bride and Groom 

Chief bridesmaid 

and best man 

After the meal, the best 

man (or toastmaster, if you 

have one) introduces the 

speeches in the following 

order: 

The bride’s father (or an 

old family friend) always 

speaks first, welcoming 

the guests to the 

reception and his new 

son-in-law to the family. 

He will complement the 

bride and often thanks her mother for their many happy 

years together. He ends by proposing the toast to the 

bride and groom. 

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

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

welcome into the family and for the reception (the 

wording can be discreetly changed here if the 

newlyweds and/or the groom’s parents have contributed 

to the expense). 

He thanks the guests for coming to celebrate the day 

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

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

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

bridesmaids. 

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 

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. 


you can save money on the reception by 

choosing a wedding cake which will double as a 

dessert. If you do this, you might want to cut 

your cake early at the reception, so it can be cut 

up ready to serve at the appropriate time. 

You will need the cake to be delivered to the 

reception venue on the morning of the wedding - 

and don’t forget to check that the venue has a 

cake stand and knife you can use. 

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 

STUART BRAMPTON 

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. 



22nd January 2017 

Marriott Hotel 

Meon Valley Hants 

29th January 2017 

Holiday Inn Hotel 

Southsea Hants 

5th February 2017 

Holiday Inn Hotel 

Basingstoke Hants 


Novotel Hotel 

Southampton Hants 


Holiday Inn Hotel, 

Titchfield Hants 


Langstone Hotel, Hayling Hants 

5th March 2017 

Holiday Inn Hotel, Eastleigh Hants 


Winchester Royal Hotel 

Winchester Hants 


Inn Lodge Hotel, Portsmouth Hants 

2nd April 2017 

The Basingstoke Hotel (opening soon 

as the Crowne Plaza) Old Common 

Road, Black Dam, Basingstoke 

9th April 2017 

Royal Beech Hotel, Southsea Hants 

4th June 2017 

Langstone Hotel, Hayling Hants 

18th June 2017 

Holiday Inn Hotel, Titchfield Hants 

25th June 2017 

Holiday Inn Hotel, Eastleigh Hants 

All fairs 11am until 3.30pm 

Tel: 02380 560073 or 07885 834476 

For a comprehensive list of all our shows, please 

visit www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk 



BRAMPTON PHOTOGRAPHY 

My fair lady... 

The 2017 BIC Wedding Show, now 

in its 23rd year, brings together 

hundreds of fabulous wedding 

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more than 100 experts, all eager to play a 

part in those big day celebrations. 

There'll be a full programme of events 

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The event begins on Friday, February 17 

PHOTO BY ROSIE 

CUTBILL PHOTOGRAPHY 

with a free preview evening from 4.30pm to 7pm, continuing on Saturday, 

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with daily fashion shows and musical performances. 

Tickets are on general sale now and cost £5 on Saturday and Sunday. The 

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For a round-up of wedding fairs near 

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The Riviera Hotel, Alum Chine, 

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Sunday 19th March 2017 12pm-4pm 

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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. 



dreamvenues 

▼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 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. 

▼ The Victorian Barn, 

Blandford Forum 

The Victorian Barn offers a civil ceremony in the 

stunning Osborne Hall for up to 120 guests or 

the Garden Room for up to 200 guests. 

The Osborne Hall can seat up to 120 for a formal 

meal and up to 200 for a buffet and specialises in 

bespoke weddings designed to meet your exclusive 

requirements. 

Working closely with a group of hand-picked local 

suppliers, The Victorian Barn can offer excellent 

food, discreet service, wonderful facilities and 

an impressive backdrop for your photographs. 

The Victorian Barn offers onsite luxury 

accommodation for up to 66 guests. 

For more information or an informal chat contact 

wedding co-ordinator Isabelle on 01258 817501, 

email: weddings@thevictorianbarn.co.uk or visit 

the website at www.thevictorianbarn.co.uk. 

PS: You can see the beautiful venue and all of its 

fantastic facilities for yourself at the Victorian 

Barn’s annual Wedding Showcase on Sunday, 

February 26, 2017 from 11am to 3pm. 

Let The Victorian 

Barn provide the setting 

for your special day 

• Licensed for civil ceremonies. 

• Weddings up to 120 

• Receptions up to 200 

• Onsite luxury accommodation 

Please contact Isabelle, 

Wedding Co-ordinator: 

Tel: 01258 817501 

weddings@thevictorianbarn.co.uk 

www.thevictorianbarn.co.uk 



Your special day in Poole, the wedding coast… 

Upton House Upton House – 01202 262753 

weddingsuptonhouse@poole.gov.uk 

Scaplen’s Court Scaplen’s Court – 01202 262600 

www.poolemuseum.com/hire/weddings 

Branksome Dene Branksome Dene – 01202 708181 

beachoffice@poole.gov.uk 

The Guildhall The Guildhall – 01202 633744 

www.poole.gov.uk 


Skip to the 

loo, my darling! 

SECLUDED & BEAUTIFUL CLUSTER 

OF BARNS IN CORNWALL 

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, currently celebrating 

our 30th anniversary, 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 3+1 (17ft) unit includes mirrors and three separate 

cubicles, all with porcelain WCs, and a built-in CD player and iPod dock or 

auxiliary input allows you to select any music of your choice. 

EXCLUSIVE USE WEDDING VENUE 

www.trevenna.co.uk 

info@trevenna.co.uk • t: 01579 320013 

photo by David Wilkins 

All units include the 

following: 

• Soft toilet tissue 

• Warm running water 

• Hand soap and 

paper towels 

• Fresh flowers 

• Vanity basket option 

• Waste bin in 

each cubicle 

• Warm air heaters 

With Temporary Toilets 

you can be sure that the essentials are taken care of in style. 

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

www.temporarytoilets.co.uk. 


▼ Highcliffe Castle, Highcliffe 

dreamvenues 

Avington Park 

PHOTO BY WWW.CARRIEBUGGPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK 

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 

PHOTO BY 


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. 

A stunning setting 

for ceremonies and 

receptions, from the 

grandest wedding 

to a small intimate 

gathering, this 

beautiful stately home in magnificent parkland 

offers exclusive use to make your day truly 

memorable. 

Tel: 01962 779260 • www.avingtonpark.co.uk 

Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1DB 

e: enquiries@avingtonpark.co.uk 

Images courtesy of Dave Burlison and Jacques Eloff 


Licensed for Civil 

Ceremonies & 

Partnerships 

Tailor made wedding 

packages 

Your perfect day awaits... 

A choice of two fabulous venues with a picturesque 

backdrop for your ceremony & reception 

64 Christchurch Road, Ferndown, Dorset, BH228ST. 

Tel: 01202 593499 E-mail: weddings@dudsburygolfclub.co.uk 

£2695.00 

Based on 40 adult guests 

Valid until April 2018 

S TA N W E L L H O U S E 

B O U T I Q U E H O T E L 

PACKAGE INCLUDES: 

A glass of bucks fizz or pimms 

for your drinks reception 

3 course wedding breakfast from 

our 2 rosette restaurant 

Half a bottle of house wine 

per person 

Unlimited still and 

sparkling water 

Tea or coffee included 

Use of cake stand and knife 

Personalised place cards 

A glass of prosecco for 

speeches 

Guaranteed sole wedding 

on the day 

Evening buffet 

Complimentary bridal suite 

for your wedding night 

Discounted accommodation 

for all wedding guests 

Dedicated wedding coordinator 

C O N TAC T T E L E P H O N E 0 1 5 9 0 6 7 7 1 2 3 • W W W. S TA N W E L L H O U S E . C O M • E : A N N E T T E @ S TA N W E L L H O U S E . C O M 


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 

Adding the 

www.rosiecutbillphotography.co.uk 

07958 984554 | 01672 540520 

info@rosiecutbillphotography.co.uk 

EK Creations work closely with 

their clients to ensure all 

expectations and requests are 

met, to the highest possible 

standard. Emma and her team provide 

a personal, yet professional service, to 

ensure every bridal couple have the 

memorable Wow! factor, they deserve. 

Their decorative chair covers and 

extensive array of coloured chair 

sashes allow EK Creations to create a 

unique feel to every event. They 

also make bespoke, hand-crafted 

stationery and have a stunning 

selection of table centrepieces and 

decorations for those finishing 

touches. 

All of their products are of the highest 

quality and standard. 

For details, call 07584 495639, or visit www.ekcreations.co.uk. 


Wow! 

factor 

Beautiful chair covers & sashes, 

elegant table decorations & bespoke 

wedding stationery 

Tel: 07584 495639 

sales@ekcreations.co.uk 

www.ekcreations.co.uk 

Walk down an aisle fringed with 

beautiful blossom trees, have 

your photographs taken under 

a romantic cherry tree in full 

bloom and, in the evening, illuminate the 

outdoors – and even the dance floor – with 

stunning trees sparkling with LED lights. 

Winchester-based Twilight Trees supply 

some of the country’s best known venues and work with top event planners 

to create a breathtaking result. 

Now you can hire their wisteria and cherry blossom trees and their LED 

cherry and maple trees to add romance and sparkle to your wedding day. The 

realistic tree trunks are made of hand-painted resin, the branches are of real 

wood and the petals are a silk blend. 

They also have wisteria poms, stunning at the end of an aisle or inside a 

marquee, as well as a selection of accessories. 

The professional team from Twilight Trees will deliver and collect at your 

convenience and set up the trees quickly and efficiently. 

For more details, call 01962 877644 or visit www.twilight-trees.com. 

The LED Tree Company 

For indoors and out, to buy or to rent 

01962 877644 

info@twightlIght-trees.com 

www.twightlight-trees.com 


W E D D I N G FA I R S 

Sunday 19th February • Sunday 8th October • 11am - 3pm 


▼The Italian Villa at Compton Acres, Poole 

dreamvenues 

PHOTO BY DAVID 

WHEELER PHOTOGRAPHY 

Set against a dramatic backdrop of 10 acres of 

manicured gardens, the stunning Italian Villa is 

one of the UK’s best wedding venues, offering chic 

sophistication, impeccable service and mouth-watering 

cuisine. And it can be exclusively yours for 

your wedding. 

Voted Best Venue at the National Wedding 

Awards and also Most Popular All-Inclusive 

Venue, Worldwide in the International 

Wedding Expert Awards, the multi-award 

winning Italian Villa offers three floors of 

unrivalled elegance. 

It is licensed for civil ceremonies and, with a 

balcony that overlooks the stunning Italian 

Garden, you can be sure that your wedding 

photos will be sensational! Book The Italian Villa and 

you’ll enjoy full exclusivity of this luxurious, fairytale 

venue – and really WOW your guests! 

You don’t have to worry about bumping into other hotel 

guests or finding staff attending to others’ needs. You 

will be the only priority and their impeccable standards 

mean every couple and their guests are treated like the 

VIPs they are. 

The villa can cater for intimate receptions for 65, or can 

provide a relaxed setting for up to 250 guests by using 

the direct access into the spectacular Italian Garden. 

There are lifts to all three floors, air conditioning, builtin 

sound system and speakers, a stage, and audio-visual 

screens. 

And with catering from the award-winning Beales 

Gourmet, your guests will savour spectacular cuisine 

from this talented team of chefs. 

See the venue for yourself at their Wedding Open Day 

on Sunday, January 29 from 11am to 3pm or for more 

information, call 01202 816074 or visit the website at 

www.the-italian-villa.co.uk. 

▼Kingston Maurward, near Dorchester 

Enjoy your own English country 

house wedding at Kingston 

Maurward in a tranquil, peaceful 

and intimate setting near Dorchester. 

The Georgian mansion house is 

approached by a sweeping drive and set 

in beautiful gardens, with a scenic lake, 

extensive lawns and formal gardens. 

It is licensed for civil ceremonies and 

offers exclusive use of all state rooms 

and suites during your reception. 

You can choose how to use the 

rooms to create your 

perfect layout including 

reception room, quiet 

rooms for tired adults 

or even a TV lounge for 

restless youngsters. 

Friendly, professional 

staff will ensure that 

the entire day is tailored to your 

individual requirements and will 

always go the extra mile to make sure 

your day is one to remember for ever. 

For more details, call 01305 

215050 or visit the website at 

www.kingstonmaurward.com/weddings 

PS: See the venue for yourself 

at Kingston Maurward’s Spring 

wedding fair on February 19th from 

11am to 3pm. 


▼The Custom House, Poole 

PHOTO BY TELL YOUR STORY PHOTOGRAPHY 

U N I Q U E G E O R G I A N V E N U E W I T H W A T E R S I D E V I E W S 

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 70 guests 

can be catered for a sit-down meal, or 120 for a buffet. For more intimate 

receptions, the Beamed Room upstairs, with its lovely waterside views, 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. 

W E D D I N G B R E A K F A S T S U P T O 7 0 , E V E N I N G 

R E C E P T I O N S U P T O 1 2 0 P L U S B E A U T I F U L R O O M 

F O R I N T I M A T E W E D D I N G S U N D E R 3 0 . 

THE QUAY, POOLE, BH15 1HP 

TELEPHONE 01202 676767 

email: info@customhouse.co.uk • www.customhouse.co.uk 


The perfect venue for your perfect day. Hotel Miramar is the country house hotel overlooking 

the bay - the ideal destination for your dream wedding or civil ceremony. 

Please contact us for a Wedding Pack or to arrange a personal viewing 

www.miramar-bournemouth.com | 01202 556581 

Hotel Miramar, East Overcliff Drive, Bournemouth. BH1 3AL 


www.hookecourt.co.uk/weddings 

Pennsylvania Castle is a very special place to escape to. 

Positioned upon a cliff top, overlooking the sea, it is a truly unique venue of pure luxury and elegance. 

Licensed for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, with lavish interiors and extensive terraces. 

The Castle is hired exclusively for your wedding day. 

Contact the Castle team on 01305 820659 or visit www.thepenn.co.uk 

Photos by Angela Vincent, Ed Peers & Jude Middleton 


▼ Hooke Court, near Beaminster 

dreamvenues 

Divine 

decadence... 

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. 

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.hookecourt.co.uk/weddings 

PHOTO BY STUART BRAMPTON PHOTOGRAPHY 

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. 

▼ 

▼ Pennsylvania Castle, Isle of Portland 

Set in stunning grounds on a clifftop with panoramic sea views, the 

Grade II listed Pennsylvania Castle is a spectacular location for your 

wedding. 

Licensed for civil ceremonies both indoors and outside under the wedding 

pergola, The Penn has been beautifully refurbished and can be hired 

exclusively. Weddings of all sizes are welcomed, from intimate family 

gatherings to parties of up to 100 guests for a wedding breakfast or more if 

you choose a marquee in the beautifully landscaped gardens. 

With nine luxurious en suite bedrooms, the castle offers accommodation for 

up to 20 guests and although it is self catered, a number of recommended 

caterers are available to meet every requirement. 

For more details, call 01305 820659 or visit the website at 

www.thepenn.co.uk. 


Bournemouth 

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

Your ceremony 

in Southampton 

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 

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 provide snow. 

Classic Fireworks pride themselves on 

providing a first class tailor made 

service offering value for money. Safety 

is paramount: all staff members are 

highly trained and experienced and the 

company is a member of the Explosives 

Industry Group and the British 

Pyrotechnics Association. 

For more details, call 0844 800 8542, 

email leon@classicfireworks.co.uk or 

visit the website at 

www.classicfireworks.co.uk. 

...and off with a bang! 

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. 


Hampshire 

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

S E R V I C E S 

Hampshire REg Office 

REPEAT Art 

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 

Castle Hill, High Street, Winchester SO23 8HU 


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 

CAKES CHOCOLATE FOUNTAINS PHOTOGRAPHERS 

Speciality, Celebration Cakes & Sugarcraft 

South Street, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3LU 

Tel: 01935 816245 

email: info@filigranacakes.co.uk 

filigranacakes.co.uk 

CANDY CARTS 

ENTERTAINMENT 

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 

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE 

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 

TOASTMASTER 

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 


dates for your diary 

JANUARY 7: The Millstream Bistro, Wimborne, Dorset (11am to 3pm, 

contact 07715 293080 or www.siennagraceweddings.co.uk) 

JANUARY 7 & 8: Dudsbury Golf Club, Ferndown (11am to 4pm, 

contact 01202 593499) 

JANUARY 8: RNLI College, Poole (10am to 3pm, contact 01202 

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

JANUARY 8: Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth (11am to 3.30pm, 

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

JANUARY 15: The Solent Hotel & Spa, Whiteley (11am to 3.30pm, 


JANUARY 15: Weymouth Pavilion (11am to 4pm, contact 01305 

783225 or www.weymouthpavilion.com) 

JANUARY 22: Holiday Inn, Winchester (11am to 3pm, contact 

www.littlestarevents.co.uk) 

JANUARY 22: Meon Valley Marriott Hotel, Southampton (11am to 

3.30pm, contact 02380 560073 or 

www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk) 

JANUARY 29: The Italian Villa, Compton Acres, Poole (11am to 3pm, 

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

JANUARY 29: Botleigh Grange Hotel, Hedge End (10.30am to 3pm, 

contact 01903 366163 or www.stylisheventsfayres.com) 

JANUARY 29: Digby Hall, Sherborne (11am to 3pm, contact 01458 

250755 or www.abcweddingdresses.co.uk) 

JANUARY 29: Canford School, Wimborne (11am to 3pm, contact 

01202 741650 or www.weddingdaze.co.uk) 

JANUARY 29: Holiday Inn, Southsea (11am to 3.30pm, contact 

02380 560073 or www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk) 

JANUARY 29: De Vere New Place, Shirrel Heath (11.30am to 4pm, 


FEBRUARY 5: Holiday Inn, Basingstoke (11am to 3.30pm, contact 


FEBRUARY 5: Chilworth Manor, Southampton (11am to 3.30pm, 


FEBRUARY 5: Rhinefield House, New Forest (10.30am to 3pm, 

contact 01903 366163 or www.stylisheventsfayres.com) 

FEBRUARY 12: Novotel Hotel, Southampton (11am to 3.30pm, 

contact 02380 560073 or www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk) 

FEBRUARY 12: Portsmouth Guildhall (11am to 3.30pm, contact 

01329 227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk) 

FEBRUARY 12: Sunninghill Prep School, Dorchester (1 to 4pm, 

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

FEBRUARY 17 to 19: Bournemouth International Centre, (4.30 to 

8pm Friday, 10am to 5pm Saturday and 11am to 4pm Sunday, 

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

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


FEBRUARY 19: Lighthouse, Poole Arts Centre (11am to 3pm, contact 


FEBRUARY 19: Old Thorns Manor, Liphook (11am to 3.30pm, 


FEBRUARY 19: Kingston Maurward House, Dorset (11am to 3pm, 

contact 01305 215050) 

FEBRUARY 26: Hallmark Hotels Collection Open Day, Carlton Hotel, 

West Overcliff Drive, Bournemouth (11am to 3pm, contact 01202 

552011) 

FEBRUARY 26: Langstone Hotel, Hayling (11am to 3.30pm, contact 


FEBRUARY 26: Bridal Boot Sale & Vintage wedding fayre, Thistle 

Hotel, Poole (1pm to 4pm, contact 0747 2550567 or www.v-aproductions.com) 

FEBRUARY 26: Victorian Barn, Blandford Forum (11am to 3pm, 

contact 01258 817501 or www.thevictorianbarn.com) 

calling wedding fair organisers 

MARCH 5: Littledown Centre, Bournemouth (11am to 3pm, contact 


MARCH 5: Holiday Inn, Eastleigh (11am to 3.30pm, contact 02380 

560073 or www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk) 

MARCH 5: Norton Park Hotel, Winchester (11am to 3.30pm, contact 

0843 2892742 or www.captivatingevents.co.uk) 

MARCH 5: George Albert Hotel, Wardon Hill, Dorchester (11am to 

3pm, contact 01935 483430) 

MARCH 5: Holiday Inn, Southampton (10am to 3pm, contact 

02381205224 or www.southamptonhospitalcharity.org/calendar) 

MARCH 5: Hilton Southampton (11am to 3pm, contact 


MARCH 5: Portsmouth Marriott, (11am to 3.30pm, contact 01329 

227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk) 

MARCH 5: Upton House, Upton Country Park (11am to 3pm, contact 

01202 262753 or www.uptoncountrypark.org) 

MARCH 12: Lainston House, Winchester (11am to 3.30pm, contact 

01329 227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk) 

MARCH 12: Winchester Royal Hotel, Winchester (11am to 3.30pm, 


MARCH 12: Winchester Cathedral (11am to 3pm, contact 


MARCH 12: Highcliffe Castle, Dorset (10.30am to 4pm, contact 

01425 278807 or www.highcliffecastle.co.uk) 

MARCH 19: Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton (11am to 3.30pm, 


MARCH 19: Riviera Hotel, Alum Chine, Bournemouth (12noon to 

4pm, contact 07464973138) 

MARCH 19: Inn Lodge Hotel, Portsmouth (11am to 3.30pm, contact 


MARCH 26: Merley House, Wimborne (11am to 3pm, contact 01202 

885024) 

APRIL 2: Old Alresford Place, Alresford (11am to 3pm, contact 


APRIL 2: Basingstoke Hotel (The Crowne Plaza) Basingstoke (11am to 

3.30pm, contact 02380 560073 or www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk) 

APRIL 9: Beach Weddings Bournemouth (10am to 4pm, contact 

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

APRIL 9: Royal Beech Hotel, Southsea (11am to 3.30pm, contact 


APRIL 23: Orangery Suite, Merley House Lane, Wimborne (11am to 

3pm, contact 07427 162282 or www.cjpromotions-events.co.uk) 

MAY 4: The Italian Villa, Compton Acres, Poole (5pm to 9pm, contact 

01202 816074 or www.the-italian-villa.co.uk) 

MAY 6: Wedding Fayre in The Square, Wimborne, Dorset (10am to 

4pm, contact 07715 293080 or www.siennagraceweddings.co.uk) 

MAY 7: The Royal Marines Museum, Portsmouth (11am to 3.30pm, 


MAY 14: The Cottonwood Boutique Hotel, Bournemouth (11am to 

3pm, contact 07427 162282 or www.cjpromotions-events.co.uk) 

MAY 14: Hilton at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton (11am to 3.30pm, 


JUNE 4: Langstone Hotel, Hayling (11am to 3.30pm, contact 02380 


JUNE 18: Rhinefield House, New Forest (10.30am to 3pm, contact 

01903 366163 or www.stylisheventsfayres.com) 

JUNE 18: Holiday Inn, Tichfield (11am to 3.30pm, contact 02380 


JUNE 25: Holiday Inn, Eastleigh (11am to 3.30pm, contact 02380 


JULY 2: Coldeast Mansion, Sarisbury Green (11am to 3.30pm, 


Organisers of Autumn 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 30th. 

Please mention Dream Weddings magazine when replying to advertisements 

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

FOLLOW 

US ON: 

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. 

index to advertisers 

BRIDAL ACCESSORIES 

Tiaras & Crowns....................................16 

BRIDAL FASHION 

Bridal & Ball...........................................12 

A Bride 2 Bee.........................................12 

Cherished Bridal Wear...........................13 

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

Wedding Time .......................................12 

CAKES 

Coast Cakes...........................................18 

Filigrana.................................................55 

ENTERTAINMENT 

Absolute Fun Casino..............................55 

FIREWORKS 

Classic Fireworks...................................52 

FLOWERS 

Bloom Floristry......................................18 

FOOD & DRINK 

Beales Gourmet.....................................46 

Chocolate Fountains of Dorset..............55 

Happy Hearts Candy Cart ......................55 

JEWELLERS 

Forum Jewellers ....................................34 

LUXURY LOOS 

Temporary Toilets..................................40 

MEN’S FORMAL HIRE 

Chas H Baker.........................................16 

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

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE 

Charisma of Fawley ...............................32 

Fab Frocks .............................................34 

Irené ......................................................32 

Rosemary Ringrose Handbags .............55 

PHOTOGRAPHERS 

CP Photography ....................................55 

Holly Marsh Photography .....................55 

Rosie Cutbill Photography.....................44 

Stuart Brampton Photography ..............34 

Twisty Focus Weddings.........................13 

REGISTER OFFICES 

Bournemouth Registration Service .......52 

Hampshire Registration Services..........54 

Southampton Register Office................52 

SPECIAL TOUCHES 

EK Creations..........................................45 

Tiger Lily Occasions ..............................44 

Twilight Trees.........................................45 

TOASTMASTER 

Brian Cox...............................................55 

VENUES 

Athelhampton House ...........................IBC 

Avington Park........................................41 

Branksome Dene ...................................39 

The Custom House................................48 

Dudsbury Golf Club...............................42 

The Grange at Oborne ...........................50 

Hallmark Hotels..................................OBC 

Highcliffe Castle.....................................41 

Hooke Court ..........................................50 

Hotel Miramar .......................................49 

The Italian Villa......................................46 

Kingston Country Courtyard..................36 

Kingston Maurward...............................46 

Meon Valley Marriott Hotel....................38 

Merley House ........................................36 

Norfolk Royale Hotel .............................38 

Pennsylvania Castle...............................50 

Poole Guildhall ......................................39 

The Riviera Hotel...................................43 

Russell-Cotes House............................IFC 

Scaplen’s Court .....................................39 

Stanwell House......................................42 

Trevenna ................................................40 

Upton House .........................................39 

The Victorian Barn.................................37 

WEDDING FAIRS 

BIC Wedding Show ...............................31 

CCP Productions ...................................31 

PMN Wedding Fayres............................30 

Stylish Events........................................30 

VA Productions......................................31 

Wedding Exhibition Promotions............30

Dream Weddings Magazine - Dorset & Hampshire - issue.35

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