Editor loves and inspiration

If you've always dreamed of trying on wedding dresses, and you're a soon-to-be bride, then your time has come! Getting ready for your first bridal boutique appointment can be quite daunting, but in being prepared, we can brace ourselves for anything the day may throw at us. Before we dive into the nitty gritty of what you need to do, something you'll need to consider is how you feel in changing rooms: do you breeze through without a second thought or are you agonising over every detail? If you resonate with the latter, then you need to make sure you are bringing people with you who hype you up! No Debbie-downers or glass-half-empty attitudes, we need good energy and kind honesty. Let's dive in and get you on the road to your dream dress!

Learn more in the latest issue of Your Kent Wedding magazine - Issue 122

Step into a world where contemporary elegance meets bohemian charm, as CB Bridal Studio proudly presents its latest Clareabella wedding dress collection. In a breathtaking array of designs, the collection captures the essence of modern bridal chic with a refreshing upgrade on classic bohemian aesthetics. The dresses are adorned with intricate lace details, fl owing fabrics, and ethereal embellishments that invite admiration from every angle. The collection complements the breathtaking location of Bradbourne House and embodies the traditional atmosphere that so many brides strive for. Clare, the visionary designer and stylist at CB Bridal Studio, thrives on the intimate connections she forges with her brides. Her passion lies in working closely with each bride, to curate bespoke collections and individual looks that refl ect their unique personalities and dreams. This personalised approach, ensures that every gown is not just a dress, but a cherished creation tailored to fulfi l each bride's vision.

Be inspired in the latests issue of Your Kent Wedding magazine - Issue 122

Fran and Andy met each other through mutual friends and for this couple, sparks instantly flew! A relationship blossomed and nine years ago, Andy proposed to Fran on what was any normal day. It was a Monday night and Fran had finished work and was still in her nurse's uniform when she walked into the biggest surprise of her life. Andy down on one knee and asking her to spend forever with him. Fran adds, “I remember our eldest child jumping around on the sofa from all the excitement.” The Tickled Trout would set the scene for their June wedding; the venue ticked all of Fran and Andy's boxes – natural vibe, lovely garden, nice food, and equally as nice reception area outside.

Find out more about their sepcial day in the latest issue of Your Kent Wedding magazine - Issue 122

Suzanne and Ashley met on Tinder, and it truly was love at first swipe – Ashley was Suzanne's first and last swipe on the app! They met up the very next day and it was an instant connection for both. Suzanne adds, “it didn't take me long to know that I was going to marry him (roughly two weeks). It took him a bit longer to realise this (nine years!), but it was worth the wait. Ten years on and we are happier than ever with a baby on the way.” You can see flashes of Suzanne's baby bump in these wedding photos, which makes this romantic day even more special! So nines years after meeting, how did Ashely pop the question? After the sad passing of Suzanne's dad in 2024, Suzanne and her mum decided to go on a cruise of the Norwegian Fjords; little did she know that Ashley was coming too. Here Ashley tells us more, “my plan was to wait until the next day to propose but fate had other ideas. That evening, Rob and I were leaving one of the bars, and across the room – staring straight at me – was Suzanne. I panicked! I did what any man would do: I dove behind the nearest cover, which just so happened to be a man selling roses. I had two options; jump overboard and swim for mainland OR grab a rose, and propose. I chose option two.”

Find out more about their special day in the latest issue of Your Kent Wedding magazine - Issue 122

No matter what you may know about weddings and the requirements for styling them, there's always something that may pop up to surprise you. Luckily for you, you're reading this magazine, so you're already fi ve steps ahead of a bride who isn't. In this feature, we will guide you on your approach to venue styling and show how you can cover every corner in purposeful decoration.

To learn more about decorating your venue, check out the latest issue of Your Kent Wedding - Issue 121 July/August 2025

The Secret Garden and The Pretty Prep Studio, teamed up with Isabelle Kate Photography and videographer Teal and White Films, to create this breathtaking show of dreamy pastel nuptials. The talented team turned, what was already a stunning wedding venue, into a fairy garden explosion that held a strong grasp on all things classic and classy about weddings. The modern twist of pastels added pops of enjoyment throughout and highlighted the intimacy of summer garden weddings. Click through to discover the secret to this garden wedding display.

Be inspired by this shoot in Your Kent Wedding - Issue 121 July/August 2025

Morgan and Grant met when Morgan was working as a barmaid at the Marriot Hotel in Bexleyheath. Grant was staying there for business, and it was at the bar that they got chatting. Morgan declined Grant's initial offer for a drink, but after a month of getting to know one another, she accepted. Grant popped the question at Morgan's sister's wedding right at the end of the night. At 10PM when her sister was about to throw the bouquet, the DJ started playing Bonfire Heart, the bouquet was handed to Morgan and she was spun around, to the sight of Grant on one knee. Morgan adds, “it was the most amazing moment to be able to share that with my sister and all my family.”

Find out more about their special day in Your Kent Wedding - Issue 121 July/August 2025

Leonie and Kenny met online, and it was an instant connection for both. Leonie was ready to give up on fi nding love online but then fate brought these two together. Their conversations were built on a shared love for Disney, but it was Kenny's humour, honesty and caring nature that really sold Leonie. Their bond was instant and there was nothing coming between these two. With the pandemic approaching, Leonie and Kenny knew they didn't want to be apart for an uncertain amount of time. So, within six months of the fi rst date, they had met each other's families, bought a house together and already started discussing things like marriage and kids. Leonie adds, “there are those that thought we were crazy or moving too fast, but we always said, 'when you know, you know!'. When you meet the love of your life you don't want to waste a single second!”

Kenny spared no romance when planning the perfect proposal. His original plan was scuppered, no thanks to covid, but everything happens for a reason and the new engagement plan was testament to this. Kenny had arranged the hire of a Morgan convertible (the ultimate romantic vintage car) and drove Leonie around the Scottish Highlands, stopping at various points to take in the spectacular sights. The last stop was at a breathtaking waterfall with amazing scenery, it was here that Kenny announced his fi nal surprise and got down on one knee.

Find out more about their special day in Your Kent Wedding - Issue 121 July/August 2025

Lots of photographers offer an engagement shoot, but we're camera-shy and don't know if it's for us. What are the benefits?

Let's face it, most of us stay clear of the camera and I completely understand why couples feel unsure or nervous. But I can honestly tell you that having a pre-shoot or engagement shoot will only benefit! They will in fact, have a positive impact on your wedding photos, as the photographer has already got to know you and the style you're looking for. I believe in the power of a pre-shoot so much that I frequently provide one when booking (free of charge).

A pre-shoot will help you get to know what you feel comfortable with, how you interact with one another, and understand the love story you're trying to share. It also provides a great opportunity to gain confidence in front of the camera and have some fun, romantic moments. The bonus is you get a set of gorgeous images to keep, and memories to look back on. All of this results in beautifully relaxed wedding photos, having gained confidence and a deeper relationship with your photographer.

https://nphotography.co.uk

Read more of your local supplier hot takes online at County Wedding Magazine in issue 120

Q - How do I create a fresh-faced dewy finish for my summer wedding this August?

A - The key to a fresh, dewy finish starts with a good skincare routine – ensuring your skin is hydrated ready for the products. Once your skin is prepped and glowing the make-up will sit beautifully. I start with a hydrating primer, usually something with light-reflecting properties (the Saie glowy super gel is my favourite at the moment!).

On to the base, I love NARS' Light-reflecting Foundation or Armani's Illuminous Foundation; this offers a light coverage and when topped off with Charlotte Tilbury's Flawless Filter, you're guaranteed a glow. A creamy blush by Patrick TA or Hourglass will give a fresh dewy finish; I like to lock this into place with the Dior Glow Palette - I also add this to the brow bone and cheek bone for the ultimate glow from within look.

Use a hydrating setting spray to maintain the glow without your make-up slipping (make sure you use one that is designed to illuminate). Avoid over powdering and lightly dust the T-Zone where you may need mattifying. Finish off with a lip liner and a gloss to achieve that radiant look for your special day.

Samantha Campbell Bridal Makeup https://samanthacampbellbridalmakeup.co.uk