 |
| |
April/May 2025 |
| |
Can you believe it’s officially spring? If you’re anything like me, you’ve been counting the days until the sun arrives. Don’t get me wrong, I love winter but I miss embracing the outdoors and being amongst nature. I’ve had enough of the darker nights and scraping ice off my car! There’s something so magical about the time of year: the sun is shining, nature is thriving and animals are emerging. It’s also a time for spring cleaning and organising for a fresh start, perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed mind ready for wedding planning.
My number one tip from the get-go is to work as a team, as the big day should reflect both your love story and personality. Don’t get caught up trying to please everyone else; it’s your day after all. Highlight all the most essential aspects of the wedding and make these a priority throughout the planning process. Set a budget for each element on a spreadsheet with what you’re comfortable spending, payment deadlines and the balance left to pay to keep on track.
The fun part of wedding planning is finding dream-worthy suppliers who share your vision. Lucky for you, this issue is bursting full of local talent with plenty of wedding planning experience. We have it all from top designers, photographers, florists, hairstylists, bakers, wedding planners and more.
Pull up a chair, grab a cuppa and enjoy!
Editor, Olivia Gibson x |
|
 |
| |
|
| |
|
 |
| Image credit: Photography By Bea |
| |
| Nature's Aisle |
| |
South Barn
Nestled in a stunning, secluded spot in the countryside, South Farm is the perfect venue for weddings! Couples and guests will enjoy exclusive use of the venue, allowing them to celebrate in relaxed informality while experiencing the very best in five-star dining.
The beautiful gardens provide colour and interest in every season. Highlights include a shimmering winter garden, woodland bulbs in spring, beds brimming with ever-changing summer blooms, and the golden and crimson leaves of the heritage arboretum in autumn.
Rain or shine, there’s a perfect array of lovely spaces to enjoy at South Farm. The Summerhouse is an exquisite seven-sided oak-framed structure that appears to hover over the lily pond, framed by the garden behind it. Skillful lighting and state-of-the-art acoustics complete this idyllic open-air scene, offering couples the most romantic setting while guests look on from across the pond.
The Farmhouse is beautifully furnished in classic country house style, adorned with fine old paintings. The Drawing Room is licensed for smaller ceremonies, accommodating up to 35 guests. It can also be used for a formal presentation line upon arrival or for drinks for up to 55 guests, in conjunction with the Hall. The Old Dairy seats 100 guests for ceremonies and is licensed for up to 150 guests for party-style events. This charming building is also ideal as a wet-weather alternative to a garden wedding or for coffee after the wedding breakfast.
The Tudor Barn forms the heart of South Farm’s many entertaining spaces, providing a grand and impressive setting for vows. It offers formal seating for 146 for meals and 200 for evening receptions.
The Horse Barn is a lovingly converted, high-specification, flexible venue space. Originally the home of eight working shire horses, the barn now features a designated dance space for the evenings with a part glazed suspended dancefloor and dramatic designer lighting.
As with everything at South Farm, the accommodation is distinctly different. Guests can stay in comfortable bedrooms, a collection of Romany Caravans and Showman’s Wagons, or bring a tent to camp!
The rustic Barnyard lies at the heart of South Farm and is home to a collection of rare breed animals. The piglets will melt guests’ hearts, and along with chickens, ducks, turkeys and peacocks, they’ll keep children entertained. There’s always something to see and enjoy!
Visit: www.south-farm.co.uk
Check out more local venues on page 25 of the current issue available now: www.yourhertsbeds.wedding/free-download |
|
|
 |
| |
| Sshh... it's a secret proposal: how 'ask for harry' is changing airport security |
| |
Queensmith, in partnership with London Luton Airport, has launched "Ask For Harry," a new initiative to help those proposing to navigate airport security without revealing hidden engagement rings. This comes as inquiries about transporting engagement rings through security have surged by 25 per cent over the past year. A survey by Queensmith found that 53 per cent of Brits plan to propose abroad, with many feeling anxious about security checks. While most proposers hide their rings in hand luggage or pockets, many want a discreet way to inform security about their concealed rings. The "Ask for Harry" initiative allows couples to keep their proposals a secret, as airport staff will recognise this signal for careful handling of bags, ensuring a smooth and surprise-filled experience. The aim is to preserve the magic of the moment in a romantic destination, rather than in an airport line.
Read more...... |
|
|
 |
| |
| Aisle Ready - what to look out for in 2025 |
| |
Fashion editor Claire Ridley unveils the finer details decorating bridal gowns this year
Read more...... |
|
|
 |
| |
| To stay or not to stay |
| |
Editor Olivia Gibson visits DoubleTree by Hilton Stratford-upon-Avon, based near the iconic Medieval market town and home to Shakespeare
Read more...... |
|
|
| Forthcoming Events |
| |
Please note: All dates are subject to changes, contact organisers for more information before making arrangements. To view more events, please visit the events page on our website...
11 May 2025 - Barn at Alswick Wedding Show
The Barn at Alswick, Hare Street Road, Buntingford, Hertfordshire, SG9 0AA
www.countyweddingevents.com
Are you a venue or show organiser hosting your own wedding event, open day or showcase? Then submit your event details here now: www.county.wedding/events-add |
|
|
| Read the latest issue of Your Herts & Beds Wedding for FREE! |
| |
Full of wedding ideas, expert advice and talented local suppliers, Your Herts & Beds Wedding is now available for free – simply follow this link to download the latest issue. For even more inspiration, you can also check out our previous issues.
Interested in areas outside of Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire? You can read any of our other 18 regional wedding magazines here.
Happy planning! |
|
|
|
