Party Perfect
One of my most vivid memories of my wedding day was standing at the entrance to the marquee in the small hours - the bar staff were collecting the glasses and the last drunken guests were staggering out - and feeling heady with the joyful mood of togetherness that had unfolded that evening. All our favourite people had been there, in one place, to celebrate our marriage - and there are not many experiences in life that can compare to that warm, wonderful feeling. It was the party of my life.
We've dedicated this issue to planning the party of your life: from designing a canape menu to remember to serving a signature drink, from giving fun, budget-friendly favours to styling your party in so-you style, from choosing your soundtrack to performing your first dance - we've even covered the classic planning pitfalls to ensure your party pans out in stress-free fashion. And, not forgetting those all-important pre-wedding parties, we take a look at some fabulous hen dos with a DIY twist in 'Handy Hens'.
With so many breathtakingly beautiful gowns arriving at Cornwall's boutiques right now, there's no reason not to look the part for your big moment. Captured in the orangery in the beguiling climes of Port Eliot Estate, 'New Romantics' showcases some stunning examples: from the exquisite embellishment of Claire Pettibone Couture to the fabulous floral prints of Sassi Holford, these fashion-forward looks offer a captivating new take on romance. And don't miss 'The Fash Pack' for a rundown on our favourite trends currently taking bridal fashion by storm.
From quirky-cool custom-made dresses (and suits!) to breathtaking blooms, eclectic entertainment and brilliantly individual touches, 'Got Wed' is packed with personality-packed celebrations. The most popular tip from the couples we've interviewed for 'Got Wed' over the years is this: don't forget to stand back, together, during the celebrations and soak up the scene. As I know, that memory will be there to warm the cockles for many years to come.
Rebecca
STYLE
16. GOLD RUSH
Go for gold for an elegant celebration with a luxe twist
18. NEW ROMANTICS
A modern love affair with prints, metallics and the most exquisite embellishment
30. ENCHANTMENT
Fairytale gowns and spellbinding details for your happy ever after
36. THE FASH PACK
Fall in love with the trends that rocked the runways
44. WED'S BOUDOIR
Bridal beauty tips and trends
58. WORKING THE GROOM
Style tips for the man of the moment
60. SUIT YOURSELF
Grooms' wedding woes resolved
76. LOVE IN LEMON AND LAVENDER
Pair lemon with lavender for a serene and so-chic scene
103. WHOLE LOTTA LOVE!
Crazy-cool colours and eclectic touches for a circus meets festival vibe
FEATURES
46. DESIGNS FOR LIFE
Pick a patterned wedding ring for a distinctive designer touch
48. HANDY HENS
Crafty inspiration for a DIY hen do
55. WILD AT HEART
Savour a dreamily distinctive wedding by the sea at Gwel an Mor
63. FAMILY (MIS)FORTUNES
Top solutions to those common W-day family dramas
68. LITTLE BEAUTIES
Forgo the starters for a creative and delicious selection of canapes
73. RAISING THE BAR
Signature cocktails pack a personal and palate-pleasing punch
80. FOR THE LOVE OF GIN
Infuse your booze with these step-by-step tutorials
85. GET THE PARTY STARTED!
Let your hair down in style with these top tips
90. ALL RISE
Party band Keiko Rise talks dance floor fillers and wedding reception winners
95. STRICTLY FIRST DANCES
Ensure you're dance floor-ready with this expert first dance advice
99. FAVOURS UNDER A FIVER
Budget-friendly favours your guests will actually use
108. HIP HOTELS
From city to seaside, Cornwall's chic hotels to say 'I do'
122. 5 PLANNING PITFALLS...AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
Sidestep the classic planning problems with this expert advice
128. EMOTIONALLY SPEAKING
How to stay calm as a couple on the emotional journey to 'I do'
133. PARADISE FOUND
Attending a wedding in Cornwall? Make a holiday of it at these stunning spots
REGULARS
6. BRIDAL BUZZ
What's new, what's hot, what's on
116. THE VENUE
Licensed venues for civil ceremonies in Cornwall
144. GOT WED
Newly-weds share a glimpse of their day
170. NOTES ON A WEDDING
Top tips for your planning pleasure
Editor
Rebecca Matthews
Chief features writer
Hannah May
Contributors
Elizabeth Chester, Abby Driver, Tracy Edwards, Christine Jensen, Gemma MacKenzie, Claire Moulds, Jenny Phipps, Sharon Ryan, Leon Soulsby, Christopher Wasey, Elle Winsor Grime
Design
Matt Sanwell, Design UNLTD
Advertising and Management
Brendan Sleeman
Distribution
Jenna Matthews
Finance
Morwenna Matthews
Publisher
Wed Magazine
28 Reens Crescent
Heamoor
Penzance
Cornwall
TR18 3HW
01736 331456
wed@wedmagazine.co.uk
www.wedmagazine.co.uk
Print
Four Way Print
Cover image
Dress
Claire Pettibone Couture
The Bridal House of Cornwall
www.thebridalhouseofcornwall.co.uk
Photography Kirstin Prisk
www.kirstinprisk.co.uk