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| OUT NOW |
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Fairytale settings
Breathtaking venues to make your dreams come true
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Real weddings
Be inspired by other brides and grooms
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Eco-friendly weddings
How you can reduce your carbon footprint on the big day
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Dressing the bridesmaids
Advice on dressing your girls
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Wedding of the year
Find out who won the last round and meet this issue's contenders
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Engagement shoots
We look at the appeal of pre-wedding photography
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Honeymoons
Louise Prance discovers the appeal of Cancun, Mexico
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Thank you gifts
What to give your nearest and dearest
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The kids are alright
How to keep the children entertained
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Flowergirl fashion
Pretty dresses the little ones will love
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| Plus... |
| Regular features, news, events, Q&A special - and much more |
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| Next Issue Out |
| 25th November 2011 |
| Strike a pose |
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| Image provided by www.binkynixon.com |
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We explore the benefits of engagement shoots and share our top tips for inspirational images
There are plenty of brides and grooms-to-be who can't wait to get in front of the lens on their big day, but there are just as many couples who experience an attack of nerves at the thought of being photographed. If you and the camera are in the midst of your very own love affair then an engagement shoot is the perfect opportunity to have some fun before your nuptials. On the other hand, if getting ready for your close up gives you the jitters, it can also be a good way to learn to relax and get to know the process of wedding photography.
Meeting up with your photographer to discuss which shots you would like for your album really is a must, and if the sound of a shutter does make you shudder the sooner you become acquainted with your snapper the better. In addition to helping to boost your confidence, an engagement shoot gives you another set of fabulous pictures to treasure, and you can even use the images as part of the reception décor. If you're watching the pennies and are concerned about the extra cost, then fear not as many photographers incorporate a pre-wedding session into their fee.
London-based photographer David McNeil places a great deal of importance on engagement shoots. "People often say the engagement shoot signals the start of the countdown to their wedding. I see the sessions as an integral part of building a relationship with the couple and it allows me to see how they respond to the camera," says David."An engagement shoot is traditionally an opportunity to take a set of photos to announce your impending marriage to the world. Digital photography has encouraged a more creative approach, with sessions taking place on location rather than in a studio. The shoot usually takes place one to two months before the big day or, if at all possible, between April and September when the weather is likely to be good."
If you're in need of some inspiration for your engagement shoot read on for some of our favourite ideas for photographic perfection.
Close up
This one is for all you lovers out there - an intimate option to explore on your shoot is to try a few close up shots. Couples who love the camera will enjoy snuggling up for some memorable images, and if the emotions that crop up ahead of the big day are written all over your face, the results can be truly stunning.
To read on see page 40 of the current issue. |
| Say 'I do' in the gazebo |
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The Oxford Belfry has recently been awarded a licence to host civil ceremonies in its gazebo, which is one of just a few outdoor approved premises in the area. This is certainly good news for couples who are planning on getting married outdoors during the summer months, during which they can make the most of the venue's lovely landscaped gardens spread across 17 acres of grounds.
The gazebo can be booked for civil wedding services for up to 80 guests. Wedding packages at The Oxford Belfry start from £48 per person and in celebration of their new civil wedding ceremony licence the hotel is currently offering a 10 per cent discount off any wedding booked for 2011/2012.
For more information, call 01844 277 511 or visit the website www.QHotels.co.uk/theoxfordbelfry |
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| Getting married in Berks & Bucks or know someone who is and would like to receive future newsletters? To forward this email to a friend click here |
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To buy a copy for just £2.95 post free or to order a subscription of six issues for just £15, please visit our web site...
www.yourberksbuckswedding.com or call us on 01376 514000 |
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| Winter warmers |
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Summer has been and gone and the shorter days and darker nights are back with a vengeance. But despite this change in light - and temperature - spelling the end of carefree summer nuptials, I for one am excited about the sense of romance that winter weddings evoke - think fairylights, candles and hot mulled wine. In fact the colder months are my personal favourite, which is why I chose to hold my own big day during this period, and I can't wait to mingle with my guests in the cosy barn lit up by the ethereal glow of candlelight. Speaking of beautiful venues, on page 17 we turn the spotlight on some of the region's spectacular fairytale settings, such as Highclere Castle, the location for the BBC period drama, Downton Abbey.
One thing that's worth thinking about when planning any winter nuptials is how to dress for the occasion. I knew I didn't want to opt for the traditional, so instead chose a 1920s inspired gown that would perfectly complement the old Hollywood glamour theme I was after. For some further inspiration for your own attire take a peek at our Return of Elegance feature on page 77. Fashion editor Danielle Wilkins has picked an array of beautiful gowns ideal for a decadent occasion.
Enjoy the issue!
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| Louise Prance, Editor |
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| PS If you have any news or announcements that you think would interest our readers, please let me know. My email address is editor@yourberksbuckswedding.co.uk
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| Win a photography package worth £1,595 |
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Here's your chance to capture beautiful memories of the big day, courtesy of Adrian Alden-Smith
A stress-free wedding makes a world of difference in making fabulous memories, and what could be a better reminder of your big day than your photographs? The key factor is choosing the right photographer who can make you feel at ease, as well as capture the emotions of your wedding beautifully.
With this in mind, we have teamed up with Adrian Alden-Smith to offer a photography package that shows off the best of the bride and groom in a natural and contemporary style. "It's important for the couple and their guests to relax and enjoy themselves on the day, which is why I adopt an easy and unobtrusive approach to my photography," says Adrian.
Based in Bracknell, Adrian is an award-winning photographer with 15 years of experience capturing couples, celebrities and Royalty. He is a member of leading photographic associations, such as the BIPP (British Institute of Professional Photography), MPA (The Master Photographers Association), SWPP (Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers) and the WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International).
For more information, call 01344 827 058 or visit www.alden-smith.co.uk
Adrian is giving away a photography package worth £1,595, which includes:
- Photography on the day - from the preparations through to the start of the wedding breakfast
- An online gallery of images from the day
- A disc of images
- A coffee-table style album
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| Enter here |
| That's entertainment |
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Treat your loved ones to an evening of fun they'll never forget
There are myriad ideas to keep your guests amused, which is why you need to consider carefully what type of music or entertainment you are hiring for the big day. Take into consideration the age range, especially if there are young children attending your celebrations. We have a few ideas to make your day memorable.
Fun money
More often then not, your theme will determine the type of entertainment you choose. If your theme is black and white and inspired by James Bond, hiring a casino would be an appropriate way to entertain the adults.
There is no real money involved, and casino companies will provide full-sized roulette and blackjack tables staffed by professional croupiers. You can also have your photo, name and date of the wedding printed on the paper bills. It's also fun to arrange prizes, such as bottles of champagne or a hamper full of goodies.
To read on see page 35 of the current issue. |
| Hot topic: Honeymoons |
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A fair weather getaway
Q - We're going on honeymoon in November next year and would love to go somewhere warm and sunny, preferably by the beach. We're aware that the weather can be unpredictable during this time of year, but at the same time we don't want to be caught in the middle of a hurricane or thunderstorm. Where can we go?
A - Victoria says: Judging by the changes in weather patterns around the world, it's not totally possible to predict what the climate will be like. Having said that, November provides several options for beautiful weather. I would recommend Mauritius as a perfect honeymoon destination, where you can laze on the beautiful white sandy beaches with the clear seas lapping the shores while sipping cocktails. If you are looking for something a little more exhilarating, explore the island and enjoy the waterfalls, botanical gardens and the local markets this exotic island has to offer.
Another alternative would be Barbados, which has sandy beaches, sophisticated hotels and some fantastic restaurants. The hurricane season here would typically be from June to October, so you have more chances of good weather in November. Alternatively, why not twin the vibrant city of Bangkok for a few days with a week or two of relaxation on Thailand's idyllic beaches? |
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| Take a look at our regularly updated Find a Supplier feature on our website where you find profiles, photographs and contact information from businesses in your area who will help you with your dream wedding. |
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| Find your local wedding suppliers... |
| Marvellous marquee |
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Celebrating your big day in a marquee setting can be a truly memorable affair, especially if it is set in a beautiful countryside location. We discovered one that fits this description - Old Worleys, situated within 70 acres of grounds and gardens sitting high above the historic town of Henley-on-Thames, with breathtaking views over the Thames Valley.
At Old Worleys there is an original 15th century house with glorious gardens and a charming suite for the newlyweds. Owner Helen Schofield takes pride in providing an idyllic marquee setting which can be decorated to suit every couple's whim, and the possibilities are endless.
For more information, call 01491 572 225 or visit www.oldworleys.com |
| Do a charity a favour at your wedding |
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Cancer Research UK is offering happy couples an alternative choice in wedding favours with its range of pin badge designs and personalised favour cards to complement anyone's big day.
Couples planning to tie the knot can order life-saving wedding favours at www.giveincelebration.org/favours. There are a range of elegant pin badges to choose from including two exclusive designs, created by luxury wedding dress designer Jenny Packham.
Cancer Research UK's wedding favours are a unique way of thanking your guests for celebrating your wedding. They also provide a personal way for the bride and groom to celebrate a friend or family member surviving cancer or to remember someone close to them. |
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