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| OUT NOW |
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Here come the girls
Insider advice on how to dress your bridesmaids
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Strike a pose
We look at the appeal of modern day engagement shoots
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Arrive in style
We look at some inspired transport options, from a horse and carriage to a traditional Routemaster bus
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Out of the ordinary
Tie the knot in these unusual settings from around the region
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Eat, play, love
Louise Prance discovers the jewel in Mexico's crown, Cancun
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Inspiration
Ideas on how to create a gothic romance-themed reception
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Real weddings
Be inspired by other brides and grooms
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Heaven scent
The County Wedding Magazines team tries out a range of perfumes
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Cuff crowd
Cool cufflinks for the big day
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Tie the knot in Dacorum
We take a look at the area's finest venues
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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 |
| Be inspired... Gothic romance |
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Thrill your guests with an atmospheric celebration full of gothic touches
The course of true love never did run smooth, and it's the passion and whistful emotion of romance that is captured in the gothic mood. Far from frightening, the term evokes images of intricate medieval architecture, though in literature it is likely to put us in mind of tragically beautiful tales such as Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte, full of desperately earnest affairs of the heart and elements of fantasy.
If you want to add a touch of gothic romance to your wedding the easiest way to establish the tone is to select a suitably grand venue, ideally a stately home or a castle where you can play the heroine of your very own love story. An enchanting mode of transport, such as a horse and carriage, would be a fairytale way to make an entrance to the reception. Be sure to take advantage of any opportunity to light a roaring log fire and adorn the space with an abundance of tealights and candelabra to create an intimate atmosphere.
A dramatic setting requires elaborate decor, so opt for a dark colour scheme of deep red, purple, green and black for a luxurious look. If your nuptials are set to have a more rock'n'roll vibe find inspiration in the films of Tim Burton, such as Sweeney Todd, and add monochrome stripes to the mix for an eccentric finish. Traditional roses or tulips would be a fitting choice of flora, while delicate vintage-style lace tablecloths will enhance the ornate nature of the theme. Tables could be named after your favourite authors, poets or books, and you could even present guests with copies of beloved novels as favours.
When it comes to the cuisine, indulge in the formality of the occasion with a sit-down, banquet-style wedding breakfast. The rich flavours of autumnal fare washed down with champagne or red wine would be a delectable end to the celebrations. |
| Dacorum Venues |
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| Image provided by www.ianwoldrenphotography.com |
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We take a look at some of the area's top spots in which to tie the knot
Ashridge House
Ashridge House is surrounded by 2,000 acres of National Trust woodland and is situated within 190 acres of private deer parkland and landscaped gardens. The house is a breathtaking neo-gothic stone mansion, with a mix of parapets, turrets, gargoyles and heraldry. Ceremonies and drinks receptions can be held outdoors, with panoramic views and ideal photograph opportunities.
Each part of the event can take place in a new location thanks to the several adjoining rooms which each has a distinct style with historical features and views of the gardens.
Psst... The venue offers an all-inclusive package which includes a dedicated wedding planner for the big day.
For more information visit www.ashridgeweddings.org.uk
For more venues in the area see page 17 of the current issue. |
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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.yourhertsbedswedding.co.uk or call us on 01376 514000 |
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| Winter warmers |
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When planning a winter wedding there's one thing thing that's worth thinking of - 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 Ladylike Vintage feature on page 57. Fashion editor Danielle Wilkins has picked an array of beautiful gowns ideal for a decadent occasion. And while we're thinking fashion, the change in season allows you to opt for more dramatic attire for your nearest and dearest. We've spoken to some of the region's leading boutiques on how to dress your bridesmaids, with some insider advice from a real bride and her maid who have been there and done it, achieving a stunning look in the process.
We hope you're inspired!
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| Louise Prance, Editor |
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| Make sure you email editor@yourhertsbedswedding.co.uk to keep us up to date with all your news |
| Win a luxurious pre-wedding spa break |
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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. |
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| Enter here |
| Cinnamon Square |
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Cinnamon Square is an award winning bakery that hand crafts some of the most beautiful wedding cakes.
From traditional, contemporary designs (including cup cake towers and topsy-turvey cakes) to your own original creation. How you have your cake is completely up to you; fruit, genoese, chocolate, carrot and patisserie style. We also specialise in gluten free and eggless cakes.
We believe that not only should your wedding cake look stunning but it should taste delicious too.
We also make wedding toppers, including replica bride & groom and exquisite sugarpaste flowers.
To arrange an appointment or for further information please call 01923 778353. |
| Arrive in style |
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Ensure your entrance is primed to perfection and let your personalities shine through with your wedding transport. Tal Dekel looks at an array of classic, quirky and elegant options for the big day
Keep it cool
For a laid-back atmosphere on the big day, there is no better option than an authentic 1960s VW camper van. A relaxed and elegant option, Sonja Willems from Blue Yonder Camper Van hire says, "Our original 1963 split-screen VW van is tastefully decorated with quality silk flowers, ribbon and bows in the colour of the couple's choice."
Don't forget, a classic VW camper van also works as a great prop for cute and quirky photograph opportunities.
Call 01525 306 206 or visit www.blueyondercampervans.co.uk for further information.
For more transport ideas see page 85 of the current issue. |
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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... |
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| Icing on the cake |
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Traditional wedding cakes have fallen by the wayside in recent years, in part due to the increased popularity of the more contemporary cupcake offering. However, as the after effects of the Royal wedding bring us back to a more conventional way of thinking, there will no doubt be an upsurge in the fruitcake of past times.
Genuine Cakes, a specialist based in Watford, has created an alternative for couples wanting a mixture of old and new; the company's signature FWB - fruit without bits. The FWB is a modern twist on a traditional fruitcake as it has a sponge-like texture while simultaneously being very light and moist. The company can also add additional tiers of differing flavours to suit all palates.
Telephone 01923 228 165 or visit www.genuinecakes.co.uk to find out more. |
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