Dream Weddings Magazine - Dorset & Hampshire - issue.36

contents
Y congratulations...
ou’ve dreamt of your wedding day since you
were a little girl - the fabulous dress, the
handsome groom, the flowers, the music, the
blissful romance of it all. And now you have
organised the handsome groom, it’s time to
get down to the rest of the planning so your
wedding day turns out to be as magical as you always
imagined.
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 transport, 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!
P2-15
DESIGNER
DAZZLE
AUTUMN / WINTER 2017 • ISSUE 36
P36-51 - FIND YOUR DREAM VENUE...
COVER PICTURE: GOWN FROM THE ALFRED ANGELO COLLECTION
AT CHERISHED BRIDAL WEAR IN BOURNEMOUTH
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
www.dream-weddings-magazine.co.uk
2-15 Stars in your eyes
Sparkling collections from top international
designers, all at a boutique near you
16-17 Best of the rest
Surround yourself with beautiful
bridesmaids and gorgeous groomsmen
18-21 Blooming gorgeous
Stunning bridal flowers and wedding
cakes that look almost too good to eat...
22-23 Picture perfect
Black & white photographs make a
welcome return to the wedding album
25-31 Now here’s the plan!
Follow our step-by-step guide all the way
from your engagement to the first dance
P19-21... TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS CAKES
32-33 My fair lady
Check out the best of the counties’
wedding fairs at a venue near you
34-35 Yummy mummy
Head-turning new collections for the
Mother of the Bride and Groom
36-51 Set the scene
Venues to suit every bride’s style from a
casual reception to a grand formal affair
52-53 At the end of the day
Party the night away with entertainment
with a difference – and fireworks too
54-56 Brides’ directory
Our handy classified index, plus those
all-important autumn 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

Lovely in
MAIN PICTURE
& TOP RIGHT:
ELLA ROSA AT NEW FOREST
& DORSET BRIDES
IN HIGHCLIFFE
ADRIANNA
ALFRED ANGELO
PAPELL
AT
AT
SPECIAL
CHERISHED
OCCASIONS
BRIDAL WEAR IN
IN
BOURNEMOUTH
POOLE
ADRIANNA PAPELL
AT SPECIAL
OCCASIONS
IN POOLE
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

lace...
Figure-hugging fishtails, soft ruffles, romantic ballgowns,
flattering necklines from off-the-shoulder to deep Vs,
seductively strapless or high-necked with full sleeves:
there’s an almost bewildering choice for today’s bride-to-be.
But the one detail you will find everywhere is lace.
From delicate Chantilly to dramatic guipure or Honiton lace, there’s
scarcely a style that doesn’t make use of this most bridal of all
bridal fabrics.
You’ll find it in exquisite overlays, in beautiful bodices,
stunning sleeves and cleverly combined with illusion
necklines and backs to give contemporary style
to the traditional bridal gown.
ALFRED ANGELO
AT CHERISHED
BRIDAL WEAR IN
BOURNEMOUTH
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 • 3

ALFRED ANGELO AT CHERISHED
BRIDAL WEAR IN BOURNEMOUTH
...or deliciously
different?
MAIN PICTURE:
Individual, flexible, fabulously feminine, effortlessly elegant or
eye-droppingly dramatic: there’s a stunning bridal style just for
you. You can even mix and match to suit yourself. Pair a cropped
top with a floating skirt, choose a sparkling top and add a
glamorous fishtail below it, dress down a lace top with a tailored
skirt or dress up a flouncey skirt with a beautifully fitted top.
It’s easy to add a pop of colour and it’s also easy to have more than
one bridal look on the day; change your top or your skirt, add some
statement jewellery and hey, presto, you’re a different bride!
If you need one more reason to consider separates: they’re flexible
enough to wear after the wedding. Imagine your beautiful lace top
with a cool pair of jeans or a dreamy summer skirt.
CHRISTINA WU AT SPECIAL
OCCASIONS IN POOLE
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

ALFRED ANGELO AT
CHERISHED BRIDAL
WEAR IN BOURNEMOUTH
LOUISE BENTLEY AT
MILLIE COUTURE
BRIDAL IN SALISBURY
WENDY MAKIN AT MILLIE
COUTURE BRIDAL IN SALISBURY
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 • 5

ETERNITY BRIDE
AT SPECIAL
OCCASIONS
IN POOLE
Short...
ALFRED ANGELO AT
CHERISHED BRIDAL WEAR
IN BOURNEMOUTH
The vintage Fifties look continues to take the
wedding dress scene by storm as brides
increasingly favour a fun, informal look for their
big day. Flattering tea-length styles come
complete with yards of stiff petticoats for that
authentic retro look.
Elegant sheaths can be teamed with chiffon overskirts so
you can have the glamour of a long dress for the ceremony
and the freedom of a short one for the reception.
There’s whole host of good reasons for choosing a short
dress. You’re looking at less material, so you’re inevitably
looking at a more realistic price. You will have fewer bridal
fittings, with no need to get the hem exactly matched to the
height of your heels. You’ll be more comfortable – and
therefore more spontaneous – when it comes to the
photographs.
And you won’t require a bevy of bridesmaids every time
you want to go to the loo!
6 • 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

ALFRED ANGELO AT
CHERISHED BRIDAL WEAR
IN BOURNEMOUTH
LOUISE BENTLEY AT
MILLIE COUTURE
BRIDAL IN SALISBURY
CUT OUT TO DO
and oh so
sweet!
LEFT: LOUISE BENTLEY
AT MILLIE COUTURE
BRIDAL IN SALISBURY
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 • 7

Big
-and so
MAIN PICTURE: UNFORGETTABLE BY
BONNY BRIDAL AT BRIDES WITH
CURVES IN WIMBORNE
Over half of today’s brides
are a size 14 or more and
long gone are the days
when larger brides were
routinely snubbed
in bridal shops...
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

eautiful!
Both designers and boutiques have woken
up to the fact that plus-size brides want to
be beautiful too: international bridal
houses have launched their own plus-size
collections and bridal shops who stock
them are witness to their popularity.
There’s nothing more disheartening for a generously
proportioned bride than finding nothing to try on in
the shops she visits, so do a little homework before
you go. Call the bridal stores in advance and ask what
choice they have for you to try on in your size. If you
want our top tip: get your underwear professionally
fitted to enhance all your good points, and wear it
when you head out on your big adventure.
Then simply get on with loving the experience.
ABOVE & RIGHT:
UNFORGETTABLE BY BONNY
BRIDAL AT BRIDES WITH
CURVES IN WIMBORNE
LOVE BY CHRISTINA WU AT
SPECIAL OCCASIONS IN POOLE
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 • 9

special
occasions
ART COUTURE AT
SPECIAL
OCCASIONS IN
POOLE
bridal house
Now celebrating 20 years helping brides find their dream
weddings gowns, Special Occasions has built an enviable
reputation not just for beautiful dresses
but also for the friendliness and
professionalism of their service.
The elegant bridal house in Poole is home
to a fabulous collection of wedding
dresses and gorgeous accessories,
from city chic to romantic and elegant.
Dresses range from 6 to 28.
Special Occasions is renowned for
the quality and fit of their dresses,
which can be individually styled with
a variety of design changes.
Manageress Gina said: ‘It is important
to us that brides enjoy their experience
with us from their first visit to the final
dress fitting.
“We pride ourselves on creating a
relaxed and comfortable atmosphere –
which is also fun for the bride and
her party.’
Appointments are recommended so
you can make the most of the
impeccable personal service offered
by the experienced and friendly staff.
ETERNITY BRIDE AT SPECIAL
OCCASIONS IN POOLE
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
55 Commercial Road, Lower Parkstone, Poole, Dorset

where
happy
endings
begin!
PICTURED &
INSET RIGHT:
ADRIANNA PAPELL
AT SPECIAL
OCCASIONS
IN POOLE
ETERNITY BRIDE AT SPECIAL
OCCASIONS IN POOLE
BH14 0JB • Tel: 01202 740072 • www.specialoccasionsweddings.co.uk
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:30 am to 4:30pm
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 •
Saturday 9:30 till 5pm. Brides are always welcome to 1browse,
1
but appointments are recommended, especially on Saturdays

OFFICIAL STOCKISTS
FOR ALFRED ANGELO
C E L E B R A T E
Y O U R C U R V E S
A N D F E E L A
M I L L I O N
D O L L A R S ,
W H A T E V E R
Y O U R S I Z E .
The 1st Plus Size Wedding Dress Specialist
based in the south coast
Sizes 18 - 32 • Prices to suit all budgets
Accessories & Shoes
A personal service individually tailored to meet your
“
requirements in a friendly and relaxed environment
”
TEL: 01202 937561
The Oaks, Queen Anne Drive, Merley, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 3BA
www.brideswithcurves.co.uk
1 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

KENNETH
WINSTON AT
NEW FOREST
& DORSET
BRIDES IN
HIGHCLIFFE
ELLA ROSA AT
NEW FOREST &
DORSET BRIDES
IN HIGHCLIFFE
MAIN PICTURE:
ETERNITY AT
SPECIAL
OCCASIONS
Put your
backinto it!
RIGHT: KENNETH WINSTON
AT NEW FOREST & DORSET
BRIDES IN HIGHCLIFFE
It’s not every day that you get
married so make sure you walk
down the aisle in a dress that looks
perfect from every angle because
your guests will get plenty of
opportunity to see your back view.
Happily, today’s bridal designers are
well aware that a stunning back is just
as important as a gorgeous front and
their collections offer a huge choice.
Illusion backs are teamed with dainty
fabric-covered buttons and
embellished with luscious lace and
pretty cut-out styles are paired with
pearls or crystals to draw the eye.
This is what your guests will be
looking at all through the ceremony.
Don’t forget that a built-in train will
give you a slimmer outline while
you’re standing at the altar. Yes,
they’re more difficult to handle, but
think of the fun you’ll have practising
in front of the mirror at home!
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 3

Beautiful bridal gowns, bridesmaids and accessories
Specialising
in made to
measure gowns
and designer
brands
Tiara
boom
today...
1 Rose Cottage, Southampton Road,
Landford, Salisbury SP5 2EG
Tel: 01794 390658 or 07786 162736
www.milliecouturebridal.com • milliecouture@hotmail.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.
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.
www.tiarasandcrowns.net
1 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

LEFT: ELLA ROSA AT
NEW FOREST & DORSET
BRIDES IN HIGHCLIFFE
MAIN PICTURE:
FELICITY COOPER
AT MILLIE COUTURE
BRIDAL IN SALISBURY
Individually
designed...
Be the bride of his dreams in a beautiful gown which you
have had a hand in designing. Millie Couture Bridal,
based in a secluded private location in Salisbury,
specialises in involving brides in the design process,
whether they choose a completely bespoke dress or a
gown from the best of the British collections.
Owner Leesa Miller said: ‘Our bridal collections encompass
designers who specialise in the bespoke area, so brides don’t just
choose a gown off the rails. They have a range of styles and fabric
choices, so the dress they design becomes individually theirs.’
This unique boutique, purpose-built in the grounds of Leesa’s
home, nestles in a leafy lane between Salisbury and Southampton.
A fashion and design graduate herself, Leesa subsequently worked
in the luxury end of bridal wear before branching out under her
own name.
Now she offers not only her own bespoke styling, but also a range
of carefully chosen collections which include English Rose, Louise
Bentley, Wendy Makin, Sophia & Camilla and Felicity Cooper.
Bridal gown prices range from £850 to £2,500 and there’s a
complete range of bridesmaids’ outfits plus bridal accessories.
Leesa said: ‘Whatever style you’re looking for, we can give you help
and advice. From beginning to end, we give 100 per cent to each
and every bride.’
Millie Couture Bridal works on an appointments basis to ensure
each bride can relax and benefit from Leesa’s undivided attention.
For more details, call 07786 162736 or visit the website at
www.milliecouturebridal.com.
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 5

Of maids
and
ABOVE & RIGHT:
TRUE MATCH AT
MILLIE COUTURE
BRIDAL IN
SALISBURY
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!
1 6 • 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

ABOVE & BELOW: ANGEL B AT MILLIE
COUTURE BRIDAL IN SALISBURY
men...
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-suit-hire.com.
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 7

Beautiful Bespoke Wedding
and Celebration Cakes
Tel: 07904 036675
www.sarahlouisecakes.com
e: info@sarahlouisecakes.com
www.facebook.com/sarahlouisecakes.uk
Fabulous
flowers...
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.
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

With over 15 years’
experience – and a
career which includes
cooking for Royalty
and celebrities like Sir Richard
Branson – pastry chef Sarah
Louise is a specialist in beautifully
decorated and truly scrumptious
wedding cakes.
Every cake she designs is stunning, gorgeous and unique.
For a free consultation and tasting, call 079 040
36675 or visit www.sarahlouisecakes.com.
scrumptious
cakes
ABOVE & 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.
Among all the details of your
wedding, there’s nothing more
important than your flowers and
your cake. Both celebrate the
occasion in a very special way, both are
focal points of your reception
decor and both should
complement the style, theme
and colours of your wedding.
That said, there’s an
almost limitless choice in
everything from bouquet
shapes to cake decoration
and an early visit to both
your florist and your
cake designer will
help you narrow
the field and make
the final decision
easier.
STUNNING WEDDING CAKES
BY SARAH LOUISE CAKES
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 9

Award winning bespoke wedding cakes
tel. 01202 539120 | mob. 07789 000387
email. coastcakes@btinternet.com
www.coastcakes.co.uk
Planning your
Special Day?
dream
wEDDINGS
...what more
could you want?
www.dream-weddings-magazine.co.uk
INTRICATELY
DESIGNED CAKES BY
SUEPHISTICATED
WEDDING CAKES
Sweet
Beautiful, bespoke wedding cakes
made by an artisan cake designer
Tel: 07787 567411
info@suephisticatedweddingcakes.co.uk
www.suephisticatedweddingcakes.co.uk
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.
▼
2 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

Suephisticated Wedding
Cakes specialises in
luxury, bespoke cakes
in Southampton and
the surrounding areas.
Sue will design a stunning
centrepiece for your special day
and personally makes all her
cakes from scratch, using only the
finest ingredients.
She even makes her own lemon
curds, conserves and caramels –
and she only uses Italian
meringue buttercream.
sensations
A highly skilled sugar florist,
Sue lovingly crafts each individual
flower you see on her cakes.
For details, call
07787 567411 or visit
www.suephisticated
weddingcakes.co.uk.
ABOVE & BELOW:
Contemporary take on wedding cake style
by Jennifer Bronsell of Coast Cakes.
For details, call 01202 539120 or
visit www.coastcakes.co.uk.
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 • 2 1

PHOTO BY ROSIE CUTBILL PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY MILLARD PHOTOGRAPHY
Black& white...
PHOTO BY
CP PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY
MILLARD PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY HOLLY MARSH
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY
ROSIE CUTBILL
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY
MILLARD
PHOTOGRAPHY
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

PHOTO BY HOLLY MARSH PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY
CP PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY ROSIE CUTBILL
PHOTOGRAPHY
It’s the new colour!
PHOTO BY
HOLLY MARSH
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY MILLARD PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY CP PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY
CP PHOTOGRAPHY
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 • 2 3

2 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

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
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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.
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 • 2 5

Planning Makes Perfect
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:
Mr and Mrs Simon Hayes request the
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
2 6 • 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
Mr and Mrs Simon Hayes request the
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
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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.
PHOTO BY ROSIE CUTBILL PHOTOGRAPHY
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.
Planning Makes Perfect
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 • 2 7

Planning Makes Perfect
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
CP PHOTOGRAPHY
On the day
• Take the groom’s going away clothes to the
reception venue
• Check the service sheets are delivered to the
church for the ushers to hand out to guests as
they arrive
• Make sure the groom arrives for the ceremony in
good time
• Hold the ring(s) until the appropriate moment in
the ceremony when they should be handed to
the groom or the minister
• Pay all the church fees on the groom’s behalf
before the ceremony
• Sign the register as a witness to the marriage
• Get the bridal party together for photographs
• Make sure the ushers arrange lifts to the
reception for any guests who need them
• Escort the bride and groom to the bridal car and
then escort the bridesmaids to the reception
• Liaise with the toastmaster or, if there isn’t
one, assume those duties himself - these
include announcing the speeches and the
cutting of the cake
• Reply to the groom’s toast to the bridesmaids
with a brief, polite and - if possible - funny speech
before reading out the cards and telegrams
• Announce the newlyweds’ departure from the
reception and ensure they have all
their tickets and luggage
• Make sure all the guests have
transport to their accommodation
• Arrange for any wedding presents
taken to the reception to be taken
home
• Take the groom’s wedding clothes
from the reception and, if necessary,
return hired suits.
The speech
When it comes to the speech, all the
advice is: Resist the temptation to
tell any juicy stories whatsoever
from the couple’s past. The escapades may have
been hilarious, but now is not the time for
embarrassing reminders about past romances
or past quarrels between the happy pair.
Because the best man’s speech is generally
regarded as the prime entertainment at the
reception, getting it together can be a daunting
prospect - but don’t panic. If you can tell jokes -
clean ones, please - that’s fine, but a short,
polite and sincere speech wishing the couple
every happiness will fit the bill just as well.
Unless you’re experienced at this sort of thing,
write down exactly what you want to say and
practise it. Don’t be tempted to wing it 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.
PHOTO BY
MILLARD
PHOTOGRAPHY
• 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
2 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
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.
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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
PHOTO BY HOLLY MARSH PHOTOGRAPHY
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.
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 • 2 9

Planning Makes Perfect
Those all-important
The Photographs
If you’re anything like most brides, your wedding
day will fly by all too quickly and the best way of
reliving it in the months and years to come will be
through your photographs.
Though lots of your friends and family will take
pictures on the day, it’s always a good idea to book
a professional photographer for shots you can look
back on with pleasure.
Your choice of photographer should be based on
whether you like the type of work he or she does.
Visit a selection and ask to see examples of their
work from recent weddings. See how the
photographer has chosen his settings and make
sure there’s a mixture of different types of shots. If
the firm you visit employs several photographers,
find out who has taken the pictures you like best and
make sure you book that specific photographer for
your day - and find out what happens if that
photographer is suddenly not available.
Discuss whether you want formally posed shots, or
whether you would like the photographer to take
informal pictures as they happen. Find out whether
proofs will be available at the reception.
Your photographer may well know the church and
the reception venue you have chosen, but if he
doesn’t, check he will visit both before the day so he
can choose the best locations.
Make sure you get a written quotation which
specifies exactly how many
photographs will be taken, at
what points during the day
and how much extra prints
will cost.
If you want photographs
taken in the church, check
that the priest is happy for
this to happen and at what
points during the service.
details
The 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.
PHOTO BY ROSIE CUTBILL PHOTOGRAPHY
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.
3 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
PHOTO BY
ROSIE CUTBILL
PHOTOGRAPHY
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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
PHOTO BY MILLARD PHOTOGRAPHY
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.
Planning Makes Perfect
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 • 3 1

3rd September
Holiday Inn Hotel
Eastleigh, Hants
10th September
Holiday Inn Hotel
Southsea, Hants
17th September
Holiday Inn Hotel,
Basingstoke, Hants
8th October
The Basingstoke Hotel
(soon to become the
Crown Plaza)
Basingstoke, Hants
15th October
Marriott Hotel & Country Club
Meon Valley, Hants
22nd October
Winchester Royal Hotel
Winchester, Hants
29th October
Holiday Inn Hotel
Titchfield, Hants
More dates & venues added regularly...
Secret Garden Wedding Fayre
Winchester Cathedral Garden Marquee
Sunday 3rd September
11am - 3pm
Vintage
Wedding Fayre
Mercure Winchester Wessex Hotel
Sunday 17th September -
1pm - 4:30pm
1st October
The Inn Lodge Hotel
Portsmouth, Hants
5th November
Novotel Hotel,
Southampton, 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
Wedding Spectacular
Holiday Inn, Winchester
Sunday 8th October
11am - 3pm
Please visit www.littlestarevents.co.uk
07894 915114 • e: gem@littlestarevents.co.uk
3 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

PHOTO BY
MILLARD
PHOTOGRAPHY
All’s fair...
Wedding experts predict elaborate entrances, dynamic desserts,
removable skirts and adding a ‘personal touch’ will be among the
top trends in the 2018 wedding scene. Last year’s emphasis on
individualism continues, with more couples adding their own
creativity to their big day. With this in mind, Bournemouth Pavilion’s Wedding
Fair returns on September 16 and 17 to show the very best of the region’s
exclusive celebration services.
This year will be the 23rd
Bournemouth Pavilion Wedding
Fair, with around 70 industry
specialists, including bridal and
menswear, venues, cars,
photography, photo booths, sweet
carts, stationery, accessories,
wedding breakfasts and more.
Stands will occupy the whole of the
Grade II listed Art Deco ballroom
and wedding cars will be on show
outside the main entrance.
Whether you’re planning a large
event or a low-key ceremony, this
year’s show will bring an abundance
PHOTO BY
ROSIE CUTBILL
PHOTOGRAPHY
of inspiring ideas to add warmth, sparkle, and most of all, exclusivity.
‘More and more couples want to create their own distinctive day,’ says BH Live
director of venues Pat Coyne. ‘Because we attract a great range of talented
event specialists, our wedding fairs remain as popular as ever.
‘We estimate that over 40,000 people have come to us over the past 21 years
to look for new ideas to make their wedding really special and exciting. This
year we hope to attract even more.’
The fair runs from 10am to 5pm on Saturday, September 16 and 11am to 4pm
on Sunday, September 17. An all-day entry ticket costs £2 per person (under-
16s and over-60s are free).
Tickets can be bought online at bhlivetickets.co.uk, by phone on 0844 576
3000* or at Bournemouth Pavilion and Bournemouth International Centre box
offices. You can also pay on the day.
Find out more at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk. *Calls cost 7p per minute
plus your standard network charge.
For a round-up of wedding fairs near
you, see Dates for your Diary on page 56
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 • 3 3

VENI INFANTINO AT
BOUTIQUE NO 6
IN POUNDBURY
Mamma
Mia!
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.
For more information, call 01202 738064 or visit
www.roseringrosehandbags.co.uk.
3 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

INSETS BELOW: CARLA RUIZ AT BOUTIQUE AT
NO 6 IN POUNDBURY AND IRENÉ IN BROADSTONE
JOHN CHARLES
AT IRENÉ IN
BROADSTONE
Choosing her outfit can be as mind-boggling for the
Mother of the Bride as it can be for the bride
herself, so here are our top tips:
Consider the style of the wedding...
and match your outfit to it. Formal society weddings
demand equally formal clothes, which would look quite
out of place at a boho wedding
in a field or on a sunny beach.
Accessorise with care
You can make or break an outfit with accessories. Always
take your outfit with you when you’re making a decision
and use the expertise of the shop assistants shamelessly.
JOHN CHARLES
AT IRENÉ IN
BROADSTONE
Be comfortable
It’s going to be a long day and you don’t want to be worrying
about whether your fascinator will stay on or how soon you can
kick off your shoes.
Above all, make sure you wear your outfit, don’t let it wear you.
Enjoy a unique
personal shopping
experience with a
top to toe service.
Sizes 8 - 26.
Over 20 top labels of occasionwear,
many exclusive in the area
Opening hours: Sat 9.45 - 4.00, Tues - Fri 9.45 - 4.30
Tel: 01202 659700
www.ireneofbroadstone.co.uk
3 Station Approach, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8AX
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 • 3 5

PHOTO BY ROSIE CUTBILL PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY MILLARD PHOTOGRAPHY
Black& white...
PHOTO BY
CP PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY
MILLARD PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY HOLLY MARSH
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY
ROSIE CUTBILL
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY
MILLARD
PHOTOGRAPHY
32 64 • 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

PHOTO BY HOLLY MARSH PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY
CP PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY ROSIE CUTBILL
PHOTOGRAPHY
It’s the new colour!
PHOTO BY
HOLLY MARSH
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY MILLARD PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY CP PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY
CP PHOTOGRAPHY
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 • 32 75

▼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! Merley House
offers 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
photographic opportunities while your guests enjoy the wide variety of
scrumptious food and fine beverages.
On the first floor, you will have the use of the bridal suite which also 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 Merley House contact the events team on
01202 885024 or enquiries@merleyhouseevents.co.uk or alternatively
come along to the wedding showcase day on the 24th September, from
11am to 3pm.
3 6 • 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

▼Hallmark Hotel Bournemouth Carlton
dreamvenues
▼Hotel Miramar, Bournemouth
PHOTO BY MILLARD PHOTOGRAPHY
Bournemouth’s captivating clifftop wedding
venue, the Hallmark Hotel Bournemouth
Carlton, is a majestic Victorian property
seated atop a spectacular cliff top, providing a
dreamy setting for weddings and civil ceremonies.
Above alluring seas, it enjoys fabulously elegant
décor, beautiful outdoor spaces, an outdoor pool
plus spacious sea view and balcony bedrooms.
Perfect for when the weather takes a turn, it also
features a modern restaurant and luxury spa, not
to mention a warm and welcoming indoor
swimming pool.
Enjoying no less than eight stunning event rooms,
the Carlton is capable of hosting everything from
an intimate celebration to a full-throttle banquet
and dance for 200 guests. All the rooms are light
and spacious, retaining the romantic grandeur of
their historic 19th-century roots.
Close to sandy beaches, newly married couples
may take a relaxing stroll along Bournemouth Bay.
On a calm day, this provides a captivating location
for brides and a delight for photographers
immortalising their big day.
Aside from its luxury appearance and location, the
Carlton is also home to highly experienced
wedding co-ordinators, who assist couples with
innovative ideas to create a wedding that is both
special and personal. They will ensure the tiniest
detail is taken care of, making all Carlton wedding
celebrations unique.
To find out more, visit:
www.hallmarkhotels.co.uk/hotels/bournemouth
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.
Bournemouth’s Country
House by the Sea...
Weddings & Special
Occasions
The perfect venue for love,
romance and celebration.
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 • 3 7

3 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
FP
Riviera Hotel

Unique wedding and civil ceremony
venues available in Southampton
If you’re looking for that perfect place for your wedding or civil ceremony,
there are three gems in Southampton that should be top of your list.
Tudor House & Garden
Located in Southampton’s Old Town, Tudor House offers
couples a unique and beautiful setting. From the 16th
century Banqueting Hall, to the lovely Georgian Room
overlooking the Tudor knot garden, the house and gardens
provide the perfect backdrop for your special day.
Westgate Hall
FP
Southampton City Council
Set in the heart of Southampton’s Old Town, this 15th
century timber-framed building provides a wonderful
setting for ceremonies and receptions. With its vaulted
ceilings and exposed beams, the hall has been
restored to create a venue with outstanding character.
Southampton City Art Gallery
The Gallery is one of the most stunning venues for
ceremonies in the city. Paintings and sculptures provide
a beautiful backdrop for couples seeking somewhere
unique, with ample space for guests to enjoy this
harmonious setting.
For more information
Please call 023 8083 4536 or email museums@southampton.gov.uk
www.southampton.gov.uk/museums
Quote ref: Dream Weddings
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 • 3 9

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
4 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

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 • 4 1

▼Kingston Country Courtyard, Corfe Castle
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.
PHOTO BY MILLARD
PHOTOGRAPHY
4 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

▼The Custom House, Poole
PHOTO BY TELL YOUR STORY PHOTOGRAPHY
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.
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
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
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 • 4 3

You are invited to
Dorset's favourite
WEDDING
OPEN DAY
11am - 3pm
Sunday 22nd October
4 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

▼The Italian Villa at Compton Acres, Poole
dreamvenues
▼Hooke Court, near Beaminster
The multi-award-winning Italian Villa at
Compton Acres is bringing exceptional
value wedding packages to brides
sand grooms.
While summer season weddings can vary in cost
from £5,357 to £11,000-plus on their standard
packages, the team have put together a package
which encompasses everything that a couple
would need from a venue and catering perspective
for just £4,000.
The price includes hire
PHOTO BY DAVID
of this unique venue
WHEELER PHOTOGRAPHY
(the only Italian themed
villa in the UK), a
three-course wedding
breakfast, reception and
toast drinks, wine with
dinner, plus a great
evening buffet for 65
guests.
Frankie Murphy, senior
sales & wedding coordinator
at The Italian
Villa, said:
‘We are delighted to offer this incredible package to
couples getting married in the ‘off-peak’ periods.
‘When you consider it is all-inclusive – covering
venue hire, all catering, drinks package and more,
we genuinely haven’t found a better value
proposition at another five star venue.
‘We wanted to let couples know that getting
married at The Italian Villa – without any
compromise on quality or service – is more
accessible than they might think, and that they will
have the wedding day of their dreams at
exceptionally good value!’
The package is available in November, January and
February, with other great deals available in the
other off peak months from October to April.
For full details, visit www.the-italianvilla.co.uk/off-peak-wedding-packages
or call
01202 816074.
PS: See the villa for yourself at their wedding open
day on Sunday, October 22 from 11am to 3pm.
Hooke Court is the perfect venue for your big
day. The elegant estate and picturesque
Grade II listed 14th century manor house
provide the perfect backdrop for a truly magical
wedding day.
Every bride’s dream wedding
is different and at Hooke Court
they have the flexibility to
accommodate your vision and
your budget: whether it’s an
intimate candlelit ceremony
and reception for 20 in front of
a roaring log fire or a weekend
of celebration with exclusive
use of Hooke Court for you
and your guests. Whatever
your ideas they can help you
to plan the perfect wedding to
suit your requirements.
Hooke Court has four different licensed locations:
the Aelfric Hall and three within the Manor House,
which gives you the opportunity to create a
wedding ceremony reflecting your personal style.
Celebrate your wedding at Hooke Court. It’s the
perfect venue for the biggest day of your life.
To view Hooke Court for yourself and plan the
wedding of your dreams, call Ros Bush on
01308 862260, email info@hookecourt.co.uk or
visit www.hookecourt.co.uk/weddings.
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
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 • 4 5

FP
FJB Hotels
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 • 4 7

Avington Park
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 Angela Ward-Brown and Jacques Eloff
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, 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.
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.
4 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

▼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.kmc.ac.uk/weddings
PS: See the venue for yourself
at Kingston Maurward’s Autumn
wedding fair on October 8th from
11am to 3pm.
PHOTO BY CP
PHOTOGRAPHY
A butterfly release promises to create an
enchanting and unique experience that you
and your guests will remember forever.
Imagine a cloud of beautiful butterflies released to celebrate your wedding.
Based in the heart of the New Forest, Butterflies for Occasions can make
the magic happen for you – and you can either have each of your guests
releasing a butterfly or a single, collective release of a mass of the colourful,
romantic creatures.
For more details, call 07582 601462 or visit www.butterflywedding.co.uk.
For more information please call 07582 601462
or email: info@butterfliesforoccasions.co.uk
www.butterflywedding.co.uk
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 • 4 9

www.rosiecutbillphotography.co.uk
07958 984554 | 01672 540520
info@rosiecutbillphotography.co.uk
BEAUTIFUL, DISCRETE WEDDING FILMS
THAT YOU CAN TREASURE FOREVER
“
A huge thank you to Becky for filming our special
All of our packages come with a
day, some truly magical moments captured, memories
10-15 minute highlights video set
that can be treasured for years to come. Would
”
to music and full coverage of
definitely recommend, amazing! - Kathryn and Sam.
the ceremony and speeches
Tel: 07799644731 • hello@thompsonweddingfilms.co.uk • www.thompsonweddingfilms.co.uk
5 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

CAPTURE YOUR
MEMORIES!
We pride ourselves on providing the best service with no
gimmicks or promises we can't keep. You tell us what you
want and we will deliver something extraordinary.
Bespoke Photo Booth Hire from just £249
Your ceremony
in Southampton
Licensed Venue
or Register Office
Weddings, Civil Partnerships
and Renewal of Vows
Tel: 01725 476029 • 07393 977630
www.pixperfectphotobooths.co.uk • pixperfectbooths@gmail.com
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...
5 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

...and off
with a bang!
Give your guests a blast and collect
yourselves a whole load of happy
memories with photo booth hire by Pix
Perfect Photo Booths. They will set
everything up for you and keep it all running
smoothly throughout your reception – and the
resulting album of pictures and messages from
guests will be something to treasure for ever.
Call 07393 977630 or visit
www.pixperfectphotobooths.co.uk for details.
That’s
entertainment!
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.
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.
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 • 5 3

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
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.dream-weddings-magazine.co.uk For more information on advertising call 01626 873364
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MOTHER OF THE BRIDE
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Exclusive range of
handmade bags using
fine silks, satins & leather.
Colour matching and
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For an appointment please call
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TOASTMASTER
Do you want a perfect day?
Brian is one of the highest quality
toastmasters and will
ensure your day is
well organized
01202
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brian.handsandfeet@talktalk.net
www.toastmasterdorset.co.uk
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 • 5 5

dates for your diary
JULY 26: Chilworth Manor Hotel, Southampton (5.30 to 8.30pm,
contact 02380 763003 or www.chilworth-manor.co.uk)
AUGUST 5: Oakley Hall, Basingstoke (9am to 1pm, contact 01256
783350)
SEPTEMBER 2: Careys Manor Hotel, Brockenhurst (12noon to 4pm,
contact 01590 625204 or www.careysmanor.com)
SEPTEMBER 3: Holiday Inn Southampton-Eastleigh (11am to 3pm,
contact 02380 560073 or www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 3: Lighthouse Poole Arts Centre (11am to 3pm, contact
01202 741650 or www.weddingdaze.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 3: Macdonald Botley Park Hotel, Botley (11am to 3pm,
contact 07894 253981 or 07894 253980)
SEPTEMBER 3: Winchester Cathedral Garden Marquee, The Close,
Winchester (11am to 3pm, contact 07894 915114 or
www.littlestarevents.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 7: Holiday Inn, Winchester (6 to 8pm, contact 01962
670700 or www.hiwinchester.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 10: Solent Hotel, Fareham (11am to 3pm, contact 01329
227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 10: Hotel Collingwood, Priory Road, Bournemouth
(11am to 3pm, contact 07464 973138)
SEPTEMBER 10: Thistle Hotel, The Quay, Poole (1 to 4pm, contact
07447934155)
SEPTEMBER 16 & 17: Bournemouth Pavilion (10am to 5pm on
Saturday, 11am to 4pm on Sunday, contact 0844 576 3000 or
www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 17: Oakley Hall, Basingstoke (11am to 3.30pm, contact
01256 783350)
SEPTEMBER 17: The Exchange, Old Market Hill, Sturminster Newton
(11am to 4pm, contact 07944246455)
SEPTEMBER 17: Holiday Inn Hotel, Basingstoke (11am to 3.30pm,
contact 023 8056 0073 or 07885 834476 or
www.weddingexhibitionspromotions.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 17: Old Thorns Manor Hotel (11am to 3pm, contact
01329 227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 17: Mercure Winchester Wessex, Winchester (1 to
4.30pm, contact 07894 915114 or www.littlestarevents.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 23: Wedding Boot Fair, Lockswood Centre, Locks Heath
(10.30am to 1.30pm, contact 07841 660177 or
www.hantsevents.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 24: Merley House, Wimborne (11am to 3pm, contact
01202 885024 or www.merleyhouseevents.co.uk)
SEPTEMBER 24: Kings Arms Hotel, Christchurch (11am to 4pm,
contact 01202 588933)
SEPTEMBER 28: Botleigh Grange Hotel, Hedge End (4 to 8pm, contact
01489 787700 or www.botleighgrange.co.uk)
OCTOBER 1: The Orangery Suite, Merley House Lane, Wimborne
(11am to 3pm, contact 07427 162282)
OCTOBER 1: Hilton at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton (11am to 3pm,
contact 01329 227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk)
OCTOBER 1: Kings Court Centre, Chandler’s Ford (11am to 1pm,
contact 07761 950724)
OCTOBER 1: Norton Park Hotel, Sutton Scotney (11am to 3.30pm,
contact 0843 289 2742 or www.captivatingevents.co.uk)
OCTOBER 5: The Savoy Hotel, Bournemouth (5 to 8pm, contact
01202 294241)
OCTOBER 8: Kingston Maurward House, Dorchester (11am to 3pm,
contact 01305 215050)
OCTOBER 8: Littledown Centre, Bournemouth (11am to 3pm, contact
01202 741650 or www.weddingdaze.co.uk)
OCTOBER 8: The Basingstoke Hotel, soon to be The Crown Plaza -
(11am to 3.30pm, contact 023 8056 0073 or 07885 834476 or
www.weddingexhibitionspromotions.co.uk)
OCTOBER 8: Holiday Inn, Winchester (11am to 3pm, contact 01420
565997 or www.littlestarevents.co.uk)
calling wedding fair organisers
5 6 • 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
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.
OCTOBER 8: Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton (11am to 3pm,
contact 01329 227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk)
OCTOBER 15: Riviera Hotel, Alum Chine, Bournemouth (12noon to
4pm, contact 07464 973138)
OCTOBER 15: Meon Valley Marriott Hotel, Shedfield (11am to 3.30pm,
contact 023 8056 0073 or 07885 834476)
OCTOBER 15: Mercure Dolphin Hotel, High Street, Southampton
(contact 02380 386460)
OCTOBER 15: East Horton Golf Club, Eastleigh (11am to 3pm, contact
02380 697073)
OCTOBER 15: Best Western Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea (11am to
3.30pm, contact 023 9272 1281)
OCTOBER 15: Cumberland Hotel, Bournemouth (12noon to 4pm,
contact 01202 298350)
OCTOBER 15: Lainston House Hotel, sparsholt (11am to 3pm, contact
01329 227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk)
OCTOBER 22: The Italian Villa, Compton Acres (11am to 3pm, contact
01202 816074 or www.the-italian-villa.co.uk)
OCTOBER 22: Chilworth Manor, Chilworth (11am to 3pm, contact
01329 227437 or www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk)
OCTOBER 22: Solent Conference Centre, Southampton (11am to 3pm,
contact 07585380403)
OCTOBER 22: Holiday Inn Southampton, Herbert Walker Avenue
(11am to 3.30pm, contact 07894 253981 or 07894 253980)
OCTOBER 22: Winchester Royal Hotel, Winchester (11am to 3.30pm,
contact 023 8056 0073 or www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk)
OCTOBER 22: Upton House, Poole (11am to 3pm, contact 01202
262753 or www.uptoncountrypark.com)
OCTOBER 26: The Savoy Hotel, Bournemouth (5 to 8pm, contact
01202 294241)
OCTOBER 29: Canford School, Canford Magna (11am to 3pm, contact
01202 741650 or www.weddingdaze.co.uk)
OCTOBER 29: Marsham Court Hotel, East Cliff, Bournemouth (12noon
to 3pm, contact 01202 446644)
OCTOBER 29: Milton Abbey, Blandford Forum (11am to 3pm, contact
01258 882246 or www.eventsatmiltonabbey.co.uk)
OCTOBER 29: De Vere New Place, Shirrell Heath (11.30am to 3.30pm,
contact 01329 227437 www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk)
OCTOBER 29: Winchester Guildhall, The Broadway (11am to 3pm,
contact 07585 380403)
NOVEMBER 5: Cliff House Hotel, Southbourne (11am to 3pm, contact
0742162282)
NOVEMBER 5: Novotel Southampton, West Quay Road (11am to
3.30pm, contact 023 8056 0073 or
www.weddingexhibitionpromotions.co.uk)
NOVEMBER 5: Pyramids Centre, Southsea (11am to 3pm, contact
07927 953815)
NOVEMBER 5: Holiday Inn, Southampton (11am to 3.30pm, contact
07894 253981 or www.uniqueweddingfayres.co.uk)
NOVEMBER 16: Holiday Inn, Telegraph Way, Winchester (6 to 8pm,
contact 01962 670700 or www.hiwinchester.co.uk)
NOVEMBER 19: Hotel Royale, Bournemouth (12noon to 4pm, contact
01202 298350)
NOVEMBER 19: Ocean Beach Hotel & Spa, Bournemouth (12noon to
4pm, contact 01202 298350)
NOVEMBER 19: Hilton Bournemouth, Terrace Road (11am to 4pm,
contact 07464 973138)
NOVEMBER 19: Allendale Centre, Hanham Road, Wimborne (11am to
3pm, contact 07427162282)
JANUARY 7: Sandbanks Hotel, Harbour Heights Hotel, Havel Hotel, all
Sandbanks (contact 01202 646 616 or www.fjbhotels.co.uk)
JANUARY 14: Weymouth Pavilion, The Esplanade (11am to 3pm,
contact 01305 780909)
Organisers of Spring 2018 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 December 8th 2017.
Please mention Dream Weddings magazine when replying to advertisements
Check out our great website www.dream-weddings-magazine.co.uk
FOLLOW
US ON:
index to advertisers
BRIDAL ACCESSORIES
Tiaras & Crowns....................................14
BRIDAL FASHION
Brides with Curves ................................12
Cherished Bridal Wear...........................12
Millie Couture .......................................14
New Forest & Dorset Brides..................14
Special Occasions ............................10/11
CAKES
Coast Cakes...........................................20
Filigrana.................................................55
Sarah Louise Cakes...............................18
Suephisticated Cakes ............................20
CATERING
Beale’s Gourmet ....................................44
FIREWORKS
Celebration Pyrotechnics.......................55
Classic Fireworks...................................52
FLOWERS
Bloom Floristry......................................18
JEWELLERS
Forum Jewellers ....................................33
LUXURY LOOS
Temporary Toilets..................................48
MEN’S FORMAL HIRE
Chas H Baker.........................................16
MOTHER OF THE BRIDE
Boutique at No6.....................................34
Irene ......................................................35
Rosemary Ringrose Handbags .............55
PHOTOGRAPHERS
CP Photography ....................................55
Holly Marsh Photography ....................55
Millard Photography..............................16
Rosie Cutbill Photography.....................50
REGISTER OFFICES
Bournemouth Register Office................45
Hampshire Register Offices...................54
Southampton Register Office................52
SPECIAL TOUCHES
Absolute Fun Casino ............................55
Butterflies for Occasions.......................49
Chocolate Fountains of Dorset..............55
Pix Perfect Photo Booths......................52
TOASTMASTERS
Brian Cox ..............................................55
VENUES
Athelhampton House ...........................IBC
Avington Park........................................48
Carlton Hotel.......................................OBC
Chine Hotel............................................47
Cumberland Hotel ................................41
The Custom House................................43
Dudsbury Golf Club...............................40
East Cliff Hotel....................................OBC
The Grange at Oborne ...........................42
Harbour Heights Hotel...........................47
Haven Hotel ...........................................47
Holiday Inn ............................................41
Hooke Court ..........................................44
Hotel Miramar .......................................37
The Italian Villa at Compton Acres........44
Kingston Country Courtyard..................42
Kingston Maurward...............................49
Lytchett Weddings.................................51
Macdonald Botley Park .........................46
Macdonald Elmers Court.......................46
Marriott Bournemouth Highcliff ...........IFC
Merley House ........................................36
Milton Abbey .........................................36
Norfolk Royale Hotel .............................40
Ocean Beach Hotel & Spa .....................41
Poole Guildhall ......................................50
Riviera Alum Chine................................38
Royale Hotel .........................................41
Sandbanks Hotel ...................................47
Southampton City Art Gallery................39
Suncliffe Hotel .......................................41
Tudor House & Garden..........................39
Village Hotel Bournemouth ...................43
West Cliff Hotel...................................OBC
Westgate Hall ........................................39
VIDEO
Thompson Wedding Films ....................50
WEDDING FAIRS
Bournemouth Pavilion...........................33
Little Star Events ...................................32
PMN Wedding Fayres............................32
Wedding Exhibition Promotions............32