Picture of the Day – Steve Gerrard Photography

Image © Steve Gerrard Photography

Website: www.stevegerrard.com

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Luxury Safari Wedding Inspiration in South Africa

I’m pretty sure that I’ve never featured any wedding inspiration that features a giraffe before, and I’m super-excited to share these incredible ideas for a luxury safari wedding.

If you’re considering a wedding abroad you may have visions of a deserted beach or poolside setting, but have you thought about a safari location? Once you see these ideas I’m sure you will be adding a safari location to your list of wedding abroad options.

Of course, the beautiful, natural surroundings of the bush landscape takes centre stage. Set right in the heart of the Bushveld, Cheetah Ridge Lodge in Nambiti Private Game Reserve, South Africa, it is the perfect setting for these fine art, luxury, yet rustic wedding ideas.

I love the romantic, minimalist tablescape with the fabulous blooms, beautiful glassware, and gold candleholders, cutlery and antlers. The addition of rustic items such as the leather chairs and napkin rings adds a subtle nod to the location. Rich, warm textures of leather and wood mixed with the soft silk, tulle and lace create a real sensual feast.

The tipi style ceremony arch is so cute, providing a pretty backdrop without obscuring the incredible views.

Coordinated by Oh Happy Day, this safari wedding styling lends itself perfectly to a fabulous destination wedding or a romantic, intimate elopement. Enjoy these gorgeous pictures, captured by Bright Girl Photography.

Romantic Safari Experience

“We wanted to create a signature, luxury experience to appeal to both international couples and local brides wanting a safari-style wedding in the African Bush. You could extend this concept further, to honeymoon and elopement options for international clientele seeking an authentic and romantic safari experience. Often overlooked by brides, so we wanted to showcase what KwaZulu-Natal has to offer from a safari perspective.

“We wanted the beauty of the bush to be the highlight of our shoot, and chose a natural colour palette with luxury finishes. Key elements included the gorgeous bush-inspired stationery suite and choice of florals. By using options that reminded us of Africa, while staying true to and complimenting our surroundings, we let the natural beauty of the bush speak for itself.”

Photography: Bright Girl Photography

Styling, Co-ordination and Flowers: Oh Happy Day

Shoot Location: Cheetah Ridge Lodge, Ladysmith, South Africa

Dresses: Laced in Love Bridal

Accessories: Lauren Batchelor Jewellery

Hair and Make-Up: Blend Makeup and Hair

Suits: Kingsly Heath

Rentals: Crystal and Vine, M&B Events and The Furniture Lab

Stationery: Chrystalace

Lingerie: Lauren Judith-Anne

Brand Consultant: Ask Ashe

Models: Chantelle and Brad from York Models

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Picture of the Day – Martin Dabek Photography

Image © Martin Dabek Photography

Website: martindabek.com

 

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Picture of the Day – Rosie Cutbill Photography

Image © Rosie Cutbill Photography

Website: www.rosiecutbillphotography.co.uk

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Getting to Know – Sandhole Oak Barn

Venue Name: Sandhole Oak Barn

Location: Near Congleton, Cheshire

What type of venue is Sandhole Oak Barn and how old is the building?

Sandhole Oak Barn is a breathtaking barn wedding venue that provides a relaxing and romantic setting with truly idyllic surroundings. Set on the banks of a private lake and with rolling Cheshire countryside all around, you’ll struggle to find a more picturesque place to tie the knot.

Tell us a little about the beautiful venue’s history.

Sandhole has been home to the Worth family for five decades. Originally all farmland, Sandhole began hosting weddings in 1995 and is believed to be the first farm in Britain to do so. In 2005 the stunning, oak-beamed barn was built and now provides an enchanting setting for country weddings. Sandhole is still family run and we take immense pride in our venue and our collective bespoke approach.

What is the capacity for a wedding ceremony and wedding reception at Sandhole Oak Barn?

Couples will find plenty of space for up to 140 guests for both ceremonies and wedding breakfasts. In the evening, you’re welcome to invite a further 40 guests.

What rooms are available for couples hosting their wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn?

When you tie the knot at Sandhole Oak Barn you’ll have the whole place exclusively to yourself.

When your guests first arrive they have the Small Barn to meet up in before the wedding and enjoy a tea or coffee. The main Oak barn is split into two parts; the Ceremony Barn for you to exchange your vows and later dance the night away, and the Dining Barn for your wedding breakfast and reception. You can also make the most of the exquisite location by marrying outside under the Clock Tower. Set on the banks of the lake, there is no more romantic place to say ‘I do’.

Enjoy drinks on the verandah and explore the grounds, and when the Oak Barn closes at the end of the main celebration your B&B guests can then wind down in the Small Barn before heading off to bed.

Is exclusive use included as part of your packages or is there an extra charge for this?

Exclusive use comes as standard at Sandhole Oak Barn – why share it with someone else!?

 

Is catering provided for weddings or can couples bring in their own caterers?

The award-winning Top Table takes care of the catering and event coordination at Sandhole Oak Barn, and has been delighting couples and their guests for over fifteen years at the venue.

They offer an extensive range of dishes and menus and will work with you to create the perfect wedding breakfast to treat your loved ones too. They also have extensive experience in running weddings and are by your side throughout the build up to your wedding and on your special day. Planning a wedding doesn’t have to be stressful with Top Table helping you!

What would a typical wedding breakfast menu be?

There are plenty of options for your wedding breakfast, from British classics to modern European dishes. With Top Table’s vast wealth of experience and restaurant quality catering they can easily put together a mouth-watering bespoke menu to suit your tastes.

Does Sandhole Oak Barn have a set price for weddings or is there a tiered pricing structure? What packages do you offer?

The venue hire fee at Sandhole Oak Barn changes depending on the day of the week and the time of year. Get in touch with us to find out more about prices and what’s included.

What can couples expect from having their wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn?

When you choose Sandhole Oak Barn as your wedding venue you can expect a day full of country romance, natural beauty and unforgettable moments.

With the lake and surrounding countryside providing a stunning backdrop you’ll have the most amazing views to accompany each aspect of your day. After celebrating under the beautiful oak beams in the barn, enjoying fantastic food and drink and dancing the night away with your loved ones, you won’t have any regrets about picking this enchanting venue.

What is the best thing about having your wedding at Sandhole Oak Barn?

It’s hard to choose just one, but we think our idyllic country setting makes us stand out from the crowd. When you’re looking out over the tranquil lake, watching lambs gambolling through the fields or taking a quiet stroll together, it’s tough to think of a more beautiful place to hold your special day.

Does is Sandhole Oak Barn have rooms for guest to stay?

Located just a few metres from the wedding venue, Sandhole Farm B&B can provide accommodation for you and your loved ones. With your own Dressing Room from 9am, a luxurious honeymoon cottage and space for a further 37 guests, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after your wedding.

Describe Sandhole Oak Barn in three words.

Idyllic, magical and personal.

What’s your top tip for choosing the perfect wedding venue?

Go with your heart and you’ll have a wedding day that you and your guests will never forget.

Where can I find out more about is Sandhole Oak Barn?

• Website: www.sandholeoakbarn-weddings.co.uk
• Blog: www.sandholeoakbarn-weddings.co.uk/blog
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/SandholeOakBarn
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/sandholeoakbarn
• Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/sandholeoakbarn
• The Wedding Community: www.theweddingcommunity.com/1563/Venues/Sandhole-Oak-Barn

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Picture of the Day – Marius Tudor Photography

Image © Marius Tudor Photography

Website: www.mariustudor.com

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Beautiful Blush Wedding Dresses for Fall 2018/Spring 2019

Blush wedding dresses are a great modern alternative to the traditional white or ivory dress. The pretty pinky hues, from soft shell pink to rose gold palettes, offer a romantic feel that suits every type of bride. This season bridal designers have launched some incredible styles, so I’d like to share some of the most beautiful blush wedding dresses for fall 2018 and spring 2019.

Iris Floral by Alexandra Grecco

I am so in love with this dress. My favourite wedding dress for 2018, the extraordinarily beautiful Iris Floral is the pièce de résistance of the Alexandra Grecco The Magic Hour 2018 Collection.

The intricate hand-embroidered floral appliqué is a work of art. Coupled with a plunging V-neckline and strappy back detail that nearly disappears, Iris Floral is the showstopper – hands down. Imagine the look on your groom’s face when he sees you walking down the aisle towards him.

Alexia by Anna Georgina Couture

Alexia from the Anna Georgina Couture Pandora 2019 Collection is elegantly formed with layers of glittering tulle and a sexy deep plunging neckline. I adore the pretty shade of palest pink which makes the beautiful sequins and fabulous floral beading shine.

Nightengale by Rita Vinieris

The embroidery on Nightengale by Rita Vinieris is so ethereal, and looks so pretty in the peony shade, don’t you think? I love the sexy plunging back with beaded spaghetti straps that finish this lace slip wedding dress perfectly.

Nightingale is one of three blush wedding dresses in the Rita Vinieris Rivini Spring 2019 Bridal Collection, which also includes…

CoCo by Rita Vinieris

This is my favourite dress in the Rita Vinieris Rivini Spring 2019 collection. The exquisite hand-embroidered beaded floral pattern looks incredible on this halter neck ballgown. If you’re looking for a darker blush tone for your wedding dress, then I’m sure you will love CoCo.

Palma by Alexandra Grecco

Another beautiful blush wedding dress from the Alexandra Grecco Magic Hour Collection. A soft, floaty wedding dress with cute capped sleeves, Palma is full of charm and detail. The incredible hand-embroidered floral beading pops against the blush silk lining. Along with the illusion tulle bodice, soft flutter sleeves and sultry low scooping back, Palma is the epitome of romance.

Roxy by Anna Georgina

This is my favourite dress in the Anna Georgina Casablanca Collection. Roxy really is something special, with a deep plunging neckline and cute lace tattoo detail across the chest. The plunging neckline is mirrored at the back and flows beautifully into the layers and layers of tulle skirt.

Erica by Rebecca Ingram

If you’ve always dreamt of a ball gown wedding dress then you’ll love Erica from the Rebecca Ingram Camille Fall 2018 Collection. Shown in a gorgeous soft pink called ‘All Vintage Rose’, the sheen of this dress looks fabulous. I love the high-low ball gown skirt which adds a whimsical touch to this romantic style.

Lana by Alexandra Grecco

Also from The Magic Hour collection, this wedding dress in the softest blush is oh so romantic. The bodice of this A-line silhouette features hand-embroidered floral appliqué that delicately trails down the skirt. The low scoop back and skirt slit add a touch of whimsy, while the blush illusion tulle lends a bit of softness. If want to fell ultra-feminine on your big day, Lana is the one for you.

Kidman by Rita Vinieris

The rose gold embroidered appliqué detail of Kidman shines and shimmers across the sheer blush tulle bodice and full skirt. This stunning lace flared ballgown wedding dress is another stunner from the Rivini 2019 collection.

So, if you’re considering a blush wedding dress, I hope these beauties have helped to sway your decision.

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Picture of the Day – Alex Beckett Photography

Image © Alex Beckett Photography

Website: www.alexbeckett.co.uk

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Picture of the Day – Lisa Carpenter Photography

Image © Lisa Carpenter Photography

Website: www.lisacarpenterphotos.com

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Anna Georgina Couture Pandora 2019 Bridal Collection

The exquisite Pandora collection is the first in the Anna Georgina Couture line, offering luxurious designs to brides looking for a little more extravagance. Comprising of nine wedding dresses and skirt and top separates, the Anna Georgina Couture Pandora 2019 collection focuses on luxury with on-trend detailing.

Fundamental to the Anna Georgina brand is the philosophy that haute couture designs should be accessible to every woman and that each woman has a beauty that is uniquely her own. This is why designer Kobus Dippenaar created the couture range to add to the Anna Georgina family.

The wedding dresses in the Anna Georgina Couture Pandora 2019 collection offer luxurious and sophisticated design. This first collection in the new range puts the emphasis on luxury and runway styling.

The introduction of a unique floral lace and appliqué detail, created with an almost distorted look, gives a whole new depth of interest. Anna Georgina’s nudeness trademark shines through in the couture collection. Daringly different and edgy, there’s a whole lot of sheer material with fascinating detailing and quirky designs. The two pieces give brides of all shapes and size the opportunity to find the perfect match for them.

“The gowns are almost architectural, from the raw silk shirt dress that is Adira to the detachable sweeping train of Brigitte, to the sheer, flower-adorned mermaid skirt that is Chloe. Every single gown is instinctively curated to showcase the best of couture.” – Kobus Dippenaar, Designer

Here are my favourite dresses in the Anna Georgina Couture Pandora 2019 bridal collection…

Alexia

Elegantly formed with layers of glittering tulle and a sexy deep plunging neckline, Alexia is the showstopper in this collection. I adore the pretty shade of palest pink which makes the beautiful sequins and fabulous floral beading shine.

Brigitte with Maxine Skirt

I love that the Pandora collection includes separates. The Maxine skirt resembles that of the Alexia dress, but worn with Brigitte gives the bodice more of an impact. There are two choices of Maxine skirt, one with added tulle for a fuller look.

Valencia Top with Stella Skirt

If you’re looking for full-on flare, then how about combining the flamboyant Stella skirt with the sexy Valencia top? I love this top with its remarkable floral design, high neck and plunging back. Together this bridal look really will wow!

Anna Georgina Couture creates dresses with real wow factor, and you can see the full collection below. Available around the world, find your nearest stockist of the new Pandora 2019 collection at annageorgina.co.za/boutiques.

Anna Georgina Couture Pandora 2019 Gallery

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Picture of the Day – Paul Rogers Photographer

Image © Paul Rogers Photographer

Website: rogerspictures.com

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Picture of the Day – Bows and Lavender

Image © Bows and Lavender

Website: www.bowsandlavender.com

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Getting to Know – Warble Entertainment Agency

Company Name: Warble Entertainment Agency

Interview With: Joey Burdon

Location/Coverage: UK and Europe

What does Warble Entertainment Agency do?

Warble Entertainment Agency is the home of the UK’s best wedding acts and entertainers. Everything you need is in one place to make planning your wedding entertainment easy and stress-free.

How did Warble Entertainment Agency get started and how long have you been going?

Warble Entertainment began in 2007 with the vision of helping couples find the perfect wedding entertainment for their big day, regardless of budget, theme or style.

Our ethos from the beginning has always been one of reliability and passion. We know how stressful wedding planning can be so we always aim to make things as easy as possible. A lot of couples are surprised at how simple and straightforward the process is! I also find it’s part of our role to make the process fun. Too much of wedding planning can be notoriously difficult or joyless. Wedding entertainment is one of the most exciting parts; we know this and like to share it with you.

Where do you cover?

Our awesome team of wedding entertainment brainiacs are based in Cheshire, however our entertainment options cover the whole of the UK, Europe and even Worldwide!

Couples planning a destination wedding can choose from a huge variety of wedding entertainment with experience in performing abroad too.

What service can Warble Entertainment Agency provide for a wedding?

We literally provide any type of wedding entertainment you can think of, as well as the entertainment you can’t think of because it’s so out there!

We have an amazing selection of live music, and our wedding bands are the best around with an array of styles. We also provide caricaturists and classical musicians such as harpists or string quartets. I love our unique entertainment section which is full of surprises. You can find celebrity lookalikes, walking trees, fire performers and so much more.

What sets Warble Entertainment Agency apart from other wedding entertainment and live music agencies?

I would say that we are extremely proud of the expertise that our team has. When you get in touch you are dealing with dedicated industry professionals who are ready to help you find the perfect entertainment for your wedding. With years of experience and knowledge we are full of ideas and helpful advice for your wedding. Our team understand how important it is to get these decisions right and are on hand right up to your wedding day. In fact we have a 24-hour emergency helpline to ensure your chosen entertainment goes off without a hitch on your wedding day.

I’d like to mention our incredible roster of artists and entertainers as well. We stringently vet any act before accepting them onto the roster to ensure the best quality of wedding entertainment the UK has to offer.

What type of music acts can you provide?

Having a variety of musical styles is important to us, and we will always look to match your musical entertainment with your wedding theme.

We have a massive range of wedding bands including rock and pop, folk bands, soul and Motown bands, jazz and rock ‘n’ roll, as well a mix of solo performers, vocalists, saxophonists and pianists. You are sure to find something to make your day special.

As well as the music side of the entertainment, what other entertainment acts can you provide?

We specialise in all kinds of unique wedding entertainment, and offer some really fun and bizarre options that are sure to make an impact. My favourite has to be our Del Boy lookalike who will come and crash your wedding!

Walkabout entertainment is really popular too, and can include acts such as mind readers, magicians and caricaturists to liven up your day.

What is your top tip for choosing wedding entertainment?

Okay, this might sound really contradictory to everything I’ve said so far, but don’t overdo it. For me it’s all about creating highlights.

Try to make memories and provide talking points by turning those common wedding lulls into something memorable. Every wedding is different, but I believe you can always strike a good balance between not enough and too much entertainment. And yes, there is such a thing as too much wedding entertainment!

Also, find entertainment that feels at home with you and your wedding day. It shouldn’t overshadow your day and it certainly shouldn’t go unnoticed.

What is your top tip for choosing live music for your wedding?

Finding live music for your wedding is easy. There are tonnes of options out there, so why do couples struggle? Although, finding a wedding band for your night is easy, finding the perfect band takes a little more thought. Choosing your live music is exciting, but can be daunting too when you don’t know what to look for.

Firstly, focus on the style you like and try to match this with your venue or theme. Once you’ve done this it’s all about getting the right ‘feel’ for an act. You can do this by watching videos and checking feedback from previous couples.

What have been the top entertainment acts of 2018?

Surprise entertainment has been popular this year. I don’t know if it’s because couples want to do something different that guests haven’t seen before, but we are noticing more of these types of acts at weddings. This can range from surprise undercover singers to paparazzi photographers and celebrity impersonators.

What have been the top music acts of 2018?

Sax and DJ combinations are huge right now, and it’s no surprise to see this. A lot of couples get stuck with the dilemma of ‘band or DJ’ when looking for their evening entertainment. Saxophone and DJ can tick both boxes and provides a cool club vibe that weddings previous won’t have had. Is this the new ‘wedding band’ archetype? There’s still a way to go but it’s amazing to have even more choice.

What do you think the trends for wedding entertainment will be in 2019?

We are due a Great British throwback as the elegance of this year’s royal wedding inspires brides with their planning. As the royal wedding only took place this year, I don’t think we’ve seen the full influence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s day yet within the wedding industry. I believe that next year we will see a rise in time-honoured classical choices in all aspects of wedding planning. For us this means couples may lean more towards acts like choirs and cellists to recreate that royal wedding atmosphere.

Warble Entertainment Agency also has a blog. What content on here can help couples looking for entertainment for their wedding?

We do have a blog! It’s packed with loads of useful tips, advice and inspiration for planning your wedding entertainment. We also post real wedding blogs featuring couples who have booked wedding entertainment with us. These are a great read and we always ask our brides and grooms for their tips and advice too.

What’s the best thing about your job?

It’s incredible to be able to work alongside so many talented people, both the Warble Entertainment team and our brilliant roster of entertainers. I think there’s also something to be said about the satisfaction of playing a part in helping someone create their dream day. All our team live for these moments and they will tell you exactly the same thing. Feedback from brides and grooms often mentions us or one our team by name to thank them for the service provided. This means the world to us.

What’s your typical day like?

I’m very behind the scenes here at Warble in some aspects, but also on the front line when it comes to anything you find online about us. I’ve usually got my head buried in Facebook, Twitter or Instagram in some way, pulling the strings in the background so people find out about us and creating content. Not forgetting keeping up on the latest news in the industry. I’ll also always be working on some kind of blog daily, whether it’s a real wedding or an advice piece, or even a Q&A like this!

If I were to break my typical day down into three main things it would be Social Media, Blogs and lots of brews. I think that last one applies to every Warble team member though as a rite of passage!

Random question… What’s your TV guilty pleasure?

Grand Designs. Not only does it have the best before and after comparison shots of any TV show, it’s consistently hilarious to see people fall into the trap of forgetting that it rains in England. Maybe I’m heartless, but when your eco-mansion made out of mud imported from Bucharest goes over budget because you forgot about rain, you only have yourself to blame.

Where can people find out more about Warble Entertainment Agency?

• Website: www.warble-entertainment.com
• Blog: www.warble-entertainment.com/blog/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/WarbleWeddingEntertainmentAgency
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/warble_ents
• Twitter: @Warble_Ents
• Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/warbleents
• The Wedding Community: Warble Entertainment – Wedding DJs and Live Music and Warble Entertainment – Wedding Entertainers

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