Editor loves and inspiration

A team of local suppliers worked together to create a luxurious yet intimate setting for this styled shoot. The shoot coordinator, The Pretty Events Co., tells us: “Often the power of candlelight can get lost in lighter, airier venues, so The George Vaults was the perfect place to really give them their moment. The use of mirrors allowed us to further reflect the light and create a romantic ambience. The simple floral displays were an uncomplicated but stylish pairing alongside the glassware. To finish the look, our bride wore two designs from Rachel Allan.”

See more from the shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download

If you’ve booked your venue, then the next thing you’ll be thinking about is how to style it. With so many options available, this can seem like a daunting task, but the most important thing to remember is that any space can be transformed with even the simplest of details. To help you create the wedding of your dreams, we’ve asked Rebecca Yussuf from Lilac and Lace Floral Design how to style a neutral and elegant themed wedding.

"This gorgeous spring wedding at The Gardens, pictured, incoroprated pastel shades of British-grown spring flowers and hand-dyed natural petal confetti, which looked beautiful. Spring weddings fit the neutral and elegant theme perfectly. Seasonal flowers for spring include blossoms, tulips, ranunculus and viburnum opulus."

See more venue styling ideas in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download

Set within the captivating surroundings of the Cave Hotel, Firepit Weddings is a new must-see wedding package. The stylish and sophisticated restaurant-style setting features rustic wooden beams, exquisite marble tables, and Opti-Myst fires that add warmth and charm to your special day. Begin your journey by entering through the exclusive hotel entrance, taking the lift to the first floor, and crossing a beautifully constructed glass bridge, enhancing the overall guest experience.

With the ability to accommodate up to 30 cherished guests, Firepit Weddings promises an intimate and unforgettable celebration in a restaurant-style atmosphere. Additionally, the Firepit is licensed for ceremonies, providing the perfect indoor venue for your vows.

The package also includes exclusive access to the Firepit venue, a complimentary glass of bubbles, a tasting menu and much more.

See more news in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download

Ann-Jee and Nick were introduced to each other by a mutual friend at a Halloween party 10 years ago. “For me, it was love at first sight,” says Nick. “She was so effortlessly charming and funny, with a captivating smile. Sadly, my ‘friend’ had already told Ann-Jee all of my most embarrassing stories, so she took a bit more convincing, especially as I was the only person in attendance who hadn’t bothered with a costume!”

Nick popped the question at Lake Como in 2020. “Ann-Jee always loved the serenity of mountains surrounded by lakes, so she was blown away when I got down on one knee in a beautiful private garden by the water under the glow of the moon,” shares the groom. “I knew she’d say yes (we’d discussed marriage many times), but I was still incredibly nervous and kept slipping off at dinner to practice my speech. It didn’t help much, and before I’d even gotten down on one knee, I was a blubbering mess, which might have given my intentions away a little.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download

Insanity Strings is a string music agency that offers bespoke wedding entertainment to suit your needs. The team at Insanity Strings tells us: “Whether it be a solo violinist or cellist performing while your guests take their seats and as you walk down the aisle, or an electric violinist or string quartet performing upbeat music against backing tracks at your drinks reception, we create an exceptional ambience for your special day.”

Meet more local musicians and entertainers in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download

Make-up artist Liberty Haynes shares her top beauty tips.

"Firstly, congratulations on your engagement. I always ask my brides to provide me with two recent photos of themselves where they feel good. It’s a great reference to see a person’s style and what level of make-up they feel best in. In addition to this, a few inspiration photos gathered on Pinterest are also helpful to get an idea of your desired look.

"Look out for make-up you admire on people with similar colouring and characteristics as you. This helps to avoid feeling disappointed if you don’t closley resemble your images! Your make-up artist should be able to go through colours, tones and textures that will look best on you.

"Bring photos of any dresses, shoes, jewels, or accessories you have so far! It’s really lovely to see how the look will come together and necklines and accessories can hugely affect how your hair and make-up come together."

See more top tips in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download

Anna and Owen met at university in 2012. “We knew of each other but didn’t really get to know each other until a few months later,” says Anna. “When we spoke to each other properly, there was instant chemistry and we’ve been extremely close ever since. Our attraction to each other was obviously physical, but our personalities are very compatible and we can always make each other smile and feel loved.”

Owen proposed in 2016 on their third anniversary. “He popped the question in East Park in Southampton,” shares the bride. “It was certainly a surprise! He proposed to me with a ring that belonged to his late mother, which made it even more special and sentimental.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download

This shoot was planned by fashion designer Jane Amor. “Jane designs and makes unique bridal gowns by hand,” says make-up artist Amy Wooden. “We carried out this shoot at The Castle Westenhanger, which has recently had a revamp and is slowly revealing its new rooms.”

See more from the shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download

Heidi and Michael first crossed paths as children at church. “I attended with my family and Michael was an altar boy along with my brother,” says Heidi. “Years later, I caught Michael’s eye on social media, but he did not recognise me at first. He messaged me asking why I had numerous photos with celebrities; my brother was manager at a nightclub at the time. I read the message, recognised him immediately, and shocked him with my response, ‘Didn’t you used to be an altar boy?’ We arranged to meet and quickly became friends, which soon developed into a relationship.”

Michael popped the question in January 2022. “It came as a complete surprise,” shares the bride. “Michael, out of the blue, asked if I wanted to go for a walk, which was completely out of character as it usually takes a lot of persuasion to get him to come out for a walk. As we were about to leave the house, Michael suddenly disappeared to look for a selfie stick, again completely out of character. We drove to a favourite walking spot of mine and he suddenly got down on one knee and pulled the ring out of his pocket. It took me a few moments to register what was happening, but I enthusiastically accepted. We celebrated after the walk with a pub lunch.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download

If you’re currently in the midst of planning your wedding, you understand the significant amount of time, effort, consideration, and resources required to ensure that the floral arrangements for your special day are perfect.

At Daisy’s Flower Preservation, owner Kate specialises in creating exquisite keepsakes using the very same bouquet that accompanied you down the aisle. “I carefully preserve your beautiful flowers and present them in frames, either as a complete bouquet or as a smaller selection, tailored to complement your home décor,” shares Kate. “And let’s not overlook the buttonhole! Many of my brides have been moved to tears upon seeing their finished piece, as it transports them back to that enchanting day.”

Flower preservation is a blend of art and science, and to guarantee top quality, Kate will focus on one bouquet at a time. “With years of experience in flower preservation and a commitment to using trusted materials, I can assure you that you will be captivated by the results,” adds Kate.

These framed flowers also make ideal gifts as a gesture from the bride and groom to bridesmaids, mothers, or another special individual – there is a size to suit everyone. So, don’t let those stunning flowers fade away!

Your Kent Wedding has teamed up with Daisy’s Flower Preservation to offer readers 10 per cent off when you use the exclusive discount code, YKWM10. To claim this fabulous offer, contact Kate via Instagram or Facebook.

See more offers in our Freebies and Offers feature in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourkent.wedding/free-download