Look what catches the eye of the editor with a special emphasis on local Kent wedding businesses, shops and suppliers.
Settling on a theme can be a tricky business, so the best way forward might be to consider your personalities and common ground. Laurie Edwards at Chic Weddings & Events says, “Whether it's travel, cocktails, or Disney this is the time to bring your interests into your wedding. Little accents like naming your tables after your favourite football teams or holiday destinations works wonders, and if you love being out in the country, bring the outside in by incorporating trees, wood, bark and moss into your styling.” Mercedes Gale at 4YaParty Weddings & Events agrees: “Is your partner a big gamer or into Marvel? Try to incorporate each other's loves into your theme and your day will truly be all about the two of you.”
See more from our Venue Styling feature in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Hair and make-up artist, Ruth Ashcroft tells us how to treat dry skin.
"Skincare isn't a short-term fix. To achieve the results you want, a daily routine is essential for any skin type, in your case – combination skin (dry and oily). Look for products that are suitable for your specific needs and check for any ingredients you may be allergic to. Then follow these simple steps:
"Cleanse. If you're wearing make-up and SPF, I'd do a double cleanse first with micellar water then with an oil or cleansing balm.
"Exfoliate. Use either a chemical (salicylic acid or fruit enzyme) or physical product such as a face scrub once or twice a week.
"Moisturise. Opt for a hydrating moisturiser such as Weleda Skin Food for dry and rough skin. Hyaluronic acid is particularly good for dehydrated skin as it holds a 1,000 times its own weight in water, which helps hydrate the skin and can reduce the appearance of fine lines."
To find out more, visit www.instagram.com/ra.mua
See more top tips in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Becky met tennis coach Nick through a mutual enjoyment of the sport. One evening, during a post- tennis pub session, someone had the bright idea of taking part in a charity run for Sport Relief and Nick decided he'd watch the film Run Fat Boy Run to motivate him, which in turn sparked a conversation between the two about the many, many other films Becky had never seen! And so it was their epic Friday movie and pizza nights began. Through these evenings Becky and Nick grew close and 12 years later they're still going strong! Incidentally, the couple did go on to compete in that Sport Relief run in 2010, dressed as red chilli peppers, because as Becky says, “Why not?”
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Using black in your wedding's venue-styling palette may never have crossed your mind, but this team of local wedding suppliers got together to prove that it can in fact be used to great effect. Shoot photographer Petrina says, “If styled correctly black is super-sexy, adding an air of sophistication and elegance.” Sprinkle with a touch of glitter and glam using disco balls and wedding favourite gypsophila, and you have an ultra- chic a setting that dreams are made of!
See more from the shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
We adore this Neon Starburst Cape and Neon Flora Sequin Flower Crown from Claude Bridal Studio featured in our jewellery feature. To see more gorgeous designs, check out the latest issue.
Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Nestled just below the North Downs in a secluded setting boasting stunning scenery, you'll find the new North Downs View Shepherd's Hut, recently created by owners of the family-run Parsonage Farm in East Brabourne. The two-person hut has been crafted by a local team of experts using traditional designs and materials. It features a fully-fitted kitchenette with a two-hob cooker and fridge, electric log burner, king-size bed, en-suite shower room, double sofa and more. It also boasts a fully-integrated, temperature control system with underfloor heating to keep you comfy during those cooler nights. Outside, a chiminea and dining area offer the perfect setting for a romantic evening under the stars.
So, if you're looking for a staycation minimoon with a get-away-from-it-all vibe, check out www.northdownsviewshepherdshut.co.uk
See more news in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Ant proposed to Amy in front of the tree that first Christmas morning in their new home. Once the season and their incredible news had been celebrated and decorations were packed away, thoughts turned to wedding venues. They discovered Wilderness Weddings at Preston Court and were instantly attracted by the peacefulness and natural beauty of its outdoor setting. Ant says, “We love how relaxed it made us feel. The ceremony area really sold it for us, with the water in the background. We also loved how there was a clear flow through the venue and could easily picture how our day there would be. During our first visit Amy cried as she loved it so much, so it had to be done!”
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
The wedding cake: sweet treat, reception dessert or showstopping centrepiece? Who's to say it can't be all three? Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, the big-day bake has been an enduring tradition and wedding stalwart since couples first said “I do.” Its origins are thought to date back to Ancient Rome when a cake of wheat or barley was broken over the bride's head to signify good fortune. Thankfully, you won't be forced to wear the delicacy today, so it's something that's well worth thinking about. The modern cake maker is now more versatile than ever and can whip you up a sweet showstopper big enough to take the place of your wedding breakfast dessert, or be served at your evening reception. Handing round the slices is also a lovely way of making sure you get round to see all of your guests. Alternatively, there's the option cake makers. Bold as brass to have a spectacular tower made up of cupcakes or macarons, even doughnuts if you prefer. And don't forget, a cheese stack is a great choice if you fancy something savoury.
See more from our cake feature in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Hair and make-up artist, Laetitia Rix tells us the latest boho trends.
"The boho style is still a popular trend. With a cool, laid back and informal vibe, it works well with a festival theme, so a natural and sun-kissed make-up will suit.
"Go for glowing skin that captures the light. Apply radiance primers such as Charlotte Tilbury's Hollywood Flawless Filter underneath your foundation to achieve lit-from-within skin. Dial up the glow with a shimmering powder highlighter applied to the cheekbones, down the centre of the nose and on the cupid's bow. Delilah's Pure Light Illuminating Powder is one of my favourites."
To find out more, visit www.makeupangel.co.uk
See more top tips in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
Claire met Jo when she interviewed her for a job at their local supermarket back in 2005. Finding they both had a similar sense of humour, their chemistry grew and before long love blossomed. Twelve years later, after having kept their relationship a secret for all that time, they finally decided to tell everyone. “It was the best decision we ever made,” Claire says. She proposed to Jo on their 13th anniversary, presenting her with a photo album of their journey together and a poem that ended, “Will you be my bride?”
The couple knew they wanted to get married somewhere local and found Nurstead Court. It wasn't somewhere they were previously familiar with, but as soon as they arrived for a visit they fell in love and straight away knew it was the one.
See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download
