 |
| OUT NOW |
 |
|
 |
| |
Here come the girls
Insider advice on how to dress your bridesmaids
|
Strike a pose
We look at the appeal of modern day engagement shoots
|
Thank you gifts
Show your appreciation to your nearest and dearest
|
Green is the new black
How you can reduce your carbon footprint on the big day
|
Arrive in style
We look at some inspired transport options, from a horse and carriage to a traditional Routemaster bus
|
The kids are alright
From table games to all day crèche services, make sure you keep the little ones entertained
|
Out of the ordinary
Tie the knot in these unusual settings from around the region
|
Eat, play, love
Louise Prance discovers the jewel in Mexico's crown, Cancun
|
Little lovelies
Pretty dresses flowergirls will love
|
Real weddings
Be inspired by other brides and grooms
|
Slick shot
Sophisticated attire for modern grooms
|
Tie the knot in Dacorum
We take a look at the area's finest venues
|
| Plus... |
| Regular features, news, events, Q&A special - and much more |
| |
| Next Issue Out |
| 25th November 2011 |
| Out of the ordinary |
| |
 |
| |
If you're looking to hold a day with a difference, check out our selection of alternative wedding venues in the region
Woburn Safari Park
Woburn Park, Bedfordshire MK17 9QN
01525 290 489
www.woburn.co.uk
With over 80 species of wild animals in the grounds - all secure in the reserves - as well as an ancient abbey, a golf club and an aerial adventure course in the trees, Woburn Park has an array of unusual features for couples to enjoy pre-and post-vows.
The safari lodge attracts couples who want to get back to nature amidst the stunning surroundings of the safari park and is a fun and quirky way in which to celebrate the big day. Despite the lodge itself not holding a ceremony licence, the two other venues on the estate, The Inn at Woburn and The Sculpture Gallery, do, allowing all the celebrations to take place on the same grounds. The lodge can accommodate up to 220 guests for both the wedding breakfast and an evening reception with the on- site caterers offering a choice of catering options, including an informal barbecue on the terrace or a formal sit-down dinner.
For more unusual venues see page 23 of the current issue. |
| Here come the girls |
| |
 |
| Image provided by Dessy at The Bridal Boutique |
| |
There's no denying that all eyes will be on the bride on her big day. But with her attendants being the unsung heroes of the whole process, it's only fair that they get kitted out in clobber worthy of such a grand occasion. We take a look at how to dress the bridesmaids
Getting started
The ring is firmly in place, the venue is booked and your gown is in the bag. It's now time to turn your attentions to your bridesmaids. Their dresses could dictate the colour scheme, or, if you already have a colour scheme in mind, you need to make sure the hue you choose works with this.
Sharing is caring
Set up a meeting early on with your attendants. This is the perfect opportunity to let them know your thoughts on the design, colour and style you like and will give them the chance to air their own ideas. Throw in a bottle (or two) of wine, some crisps and dips and you'll not only get your dress hunt under way, you'll have a great night with your nearest and dearest.
Individual style
Allow your friends to have their own opinions. If they don't feel comfortable in a strapless number, try to think of a compromise. You want them to feel happy in their attire on the big day and there are many different options available.
Money matters
Keep your budget in mind and discuss this early on. If you're not able to foot the bill for the gown, suggest you pay for the accessories such as shoes, bag and jewellery, instead. Alternatively if you're happy to pay for the dresses it's perfectly acceptable to ask your maids to cover the cost of the extra bits. Bring this up early on and it will save any awkward conversations at a later date.
To read on see page 41 of the current issue. |
|
|
|
| Winters warmers |
|
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.
While many brides-to-be dream of a balmy summer evening, I can't wait to mingle with my guests in the cosy barn lit by the ethereal glow of candlelight.
Enjoy the issue!
 |
| Louise Prance, Editor |
| |
| PS If you have any news or announcements that you think would interest our readers, please let me know. My email address is editor@yourhertsbedswedding.co.uk
|
| Win a luxurious pre-wedding spa break |
| |
 |
| |
Planning a wedding can be stressful, which is why many couples choose to enjoy a pre-wedding weekend away before the big day and The Grove Hotel, Chandler's Cross, provides the perfect base for brides- and grooms-to-be.
The former home of the Earls of Clarendon, the magnificent 18th century house is set in 300 acres of Hertfordshire parkland and open countryside, and has been transformed into a cosmopolitan country estate.
Since opening in 2003, the resort has received many industry awards, including the AA Hotel of the Year within 12 months of opening, while Sequoia, The Grove's luxurious spa, was voted Best Spa in the World in 2009.
There are three restaurants to choose from including à la carte option Colette's, The Glasshouse, which serves only fresh food cooked to order, and The Stables. Once you're suitably wined and dined, there are numerous activities available. Escape from it all in the romantic formal gardens before spending a little time in the original Walled Garden - complete with its own open-air pool and urban beach - or try your hand at croquet on the lawn or a spot of tennis.
The River Gade and Grand Union Canal both run through the property so you can simply relax in the woodland, meadows, or by one of the two lakes. The venue even has beehives producing its very own Grove Honey.
For more information about The Grove visit www.thegrove.co.uk
The Grove Hotel is offering readers the chance to win a romantic one-night spa stay for two in a West Wing Deluxe room. The winners will enjoy a full English breakfast in the morning as well as a delicious dinner for two in The Glasshouse restaurant. In addition, the lucky couple will be
treated to a complimentary 55-minute treatment of their choice in the Seqouia Spa. |
| |
| Enter here |
| Do a charity a favour at your wedding. |
| |
 |
| |
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. |
| How to look 'Fleming Marvellous'! |
| |
 |
| |
Shendish Manor are pleased to present an evening with a renowned style and image consultant. None other than Margaret Fleming of Fleming Marvellous.
If you want to look 10 years younger and 10lbs slimmer or long for a wardroble full of clothes that you DO wear come and enjoy a fantastic, fun night out. Whether you are slim, wide, short or tall Margaret has the answer for all!
The evening includes a buffet and a glass of wine on arrival for just £22.00. Places are very limited, so to avoid disappointment please call Shendish Manor on 01442 232220 or email sales@shendish-manor.com |
 |
| |
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.yourhertsbedswedding.co.uk or call us on 01376 514000 |
|
|
|
 |
| |
| 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. |
| |
 |
| |
| Find your local wedding suppliers... |
 |
| Hot topic: Weather |
| |
 |
| Image provided by www.reportagephotography.com |
| |
Summer lovin'
Q -The venue we have chosen is renowned for its stunning grounds so we want to host an outdoor wedding with a garden party theme. If we're lucky with the weather all should go as planned, but in the case of rain everything could be ruined. Can you help?
A -Nadia says: Outdoor weddings are beautiful but it is essential to have an indoor location available in case of stifling heat, rain or gusting winds. Any rainfall during the preceding week of your wedding could also leave you with soggy terrain. If your venue can't offer an inside alternative, consider hiring a marquee with suitable flooring. Inform your guests so they can dress appropriately and delegate individual jobs to ensure everything can be moved quickly under cover. Keep umbrellas handy and provide coat stands near the entrance.
Citronella candles will help to keep the bugs at bay, place glass beads in the bottom of hurricane lamps to give them extra stability. Ensure that the band and catering are under cover, weather-proof power leads and rubber mats are in place, and that you have a milling area for your guests. Finally, don't forget the bunting and garden games! |
| Eat, play, love... Cancun |
| |
 |
| |
Cancun may not be the first honeymoon destination that springs to mind, but thanks to a new direct flight path from the UK, newlyweds can easily access the pure shores and breathtaking beauty that this Mexican getaway has to offer, as Louise Prance discovers
The white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of Cancun have often been thought of as the ultimate luxury getaway, yet have been inaccessible to many due to the lengthy journey involved. However, with British Airways now offering a direct route three times a week, and with Virgin Atlantic filling the gaps, there is a daily direct flight path that lands you right on the doorstep of this stunning honeymoon destination.
I was lucky enough to spend some time there and experience first hand what this romantic spot has to offer - and should you be able to tear yourself away from the beach, there is a wealth of activities to indulge in too.
Rising star
The city of Cancun is located on the north east coast of Quintana Roo, southern Mexico and has fairly recently evolved as a thriving tourist destination, previously only inhabited by a coconut plantation, military base and a quiet fishing village. However, after the government spotted its potential, development started and Cancun has subsequently turned into an area of outstanding beauty that offers something for everyone; be it rest and relaxation, watersports, jungle activities, fine dining or nightlife - it's all there for the taking.
To read on turn to page 110 of the current issue. |
 |
| |
| Getting married in Herts & Beds or know someone who is and would like to receive future newsletters? To forward this email to a friend click here |
|
|
