SWOONNOSEISSUE 2 SPRING 2015Handmade, bespoke,

beautiful

IN THIS ISSUEArticles10 How to have happy kids at your wedding 13 The Secret Bride 55 Wilderness wedding shoot 65 Good for the soul68 5 ways to save money and still have a fabulous wedding 73 Be inspired!84 Wish bracelets – a brief history of

Real weddings14 The wedding of Kristina & Matthew37 The wedding of Andy & Nicola

Real vendors5 Amanda Moon Headwear 20 Gemma Milly Illustration 24 Beautiful balloons29 An abundance of romance31 Emily Hankins Cakes 43 The Whimsical Cake Company 50 Beautiful blossoms 60 The perfect finishing touch 69 Team Hen 79 A girl should be two things classy and fabulous! 85 Let love bloom86 Our contributors 87 Our directory

SwoonnoseSpring is here!

Our fabulous Spring Issue is packed full of fantastic wedding ideas and inspiration, each and every one upholding the SwoonNose mantra – handmade, bespoke and beautiful.We know that planning your wedding is a wonderful and exciting time but that it can also be confusing and sometimes scream worthy with the vast array of items, ideas and 'must haves' that are out there. There are literally thousands of glossy mags, wedding blogs and websites telling you what to wear, how you should feel, what details to have and what is 'hot' and what is 'not'. We try to keep it real and share what we like. All of our contributors either own a wedding business or are a wedding couple, providing you with ideas and inspiration from people in the know. If you love the idea of knowing where your items come from then SwoonNose is the place for you. We share with you some of our favourite handmade, absolutely drop dead gorgeous wedding gowns, favours and decorations. Darby & Joan give practical advice on how to keep your younger guests happy while our Secret Bride shares her experience of getting engaged. We have 5 ways to help you save money and still have a fabulous wedding and Sophie Stewart puts together truly pretty inspiration boards that will make you swoon.Amanda Moon lets you in to the world of millinery, Gemma Milly shares her beautifully illustrated wedding stationary, we hear how Mrs Umbels creates gorgeous floral arrangements and have a stunning styled shoot from all the talents that Scotland has to offer. You'll love it!

We hope you enjoy!

The Editorx

AmandaMoon

Headwear“Can I interest you in this piece, Madam?”

Amanda Moon Headwear. It says what it is; hats, fascinators and hair accessories. However, as you look into the pieces on offer it is evident that these are designed with personality and style at the fore. It is not the generic high street offering. Each piece is designed with the wearer in mind and is intended to be wholly about allowing the wearer to find themselves completely epitomized through the piece they wear. Understanding how Amanda’s love for headwear grew is central to understanding how she accomplishes headwear which seem perfectly matched to their owner.Initially, Amanda’s millinery journey grew out of a personal venture to create her own wedding piece. She came into her wedding planning with the pre-requisite that it needed to be simple and focussed on what truly made her and her husband feel comfortable and happy. And so, knowing a veil and tiara felt too formal for her, she sought to complete her wedding outfit with something that was subtle with an edge of wit. She also wanted it to reflect her husband’s love for conservation. With remnants from his tweed wedding suit, a bird, some berries and ivy, a small piece was created that sat nestled in her hair. Not outlandish but distinctly present. Their wedding day was relaxed, fun and just about them enjoying each other and the people around them.

Since that first step into headwear, Amanda developed a love for millinery and there began headpieces that presented something new and fresh. Recognising, that there are brides (and not brides) out there looking for something that steps slightly away from tradition, she pursued millinery training and thought about how individual personalities and styles could be reflected though headwear. With a love for people and the craftsmanship of millinery, Amanda Moon Headwear came into being. What would you expect to get as part of the Amanda Moon Headwear experience? First and foremost, time. Time to understand and know you, followed by quality design and craftsmanship.

For those who visit Amanda, a cup of

something warm, with obligatory biscuits

awaits you. She will want to know your colour themes – if you’ve decided, whether your wedding is rustic, vintage, simple elegance, rock and roll, eclectic, traditional or something entirely different! However, beyond all the ‘mood board’ like clues, she will want to know a bit about you. Getting to know you possibly plays the biggest part in getting your piece right. Style and personality are what interest Amanda, and it is that which forms the basis of a final piece. It could be a classic elegant silk button, a wild piece with flora and fauna sprawling or a delicate collection of blossom with a surprising little visitor.

Glancing through her headwear, you will find the pieces to be unique, beautiful and sometimes surprising. Each has an air of elegance, but these little works of art sometimes prove to have an element of wit, too. Look closely and there amongst the flora and fauna, might be a dragon fly, a little bumble bee or a bird taking shelter. Currently, there are ladybirds in the making for a bespoke piece.Ultimately, Amanda is focused on presenting brides with a bespoke or made-to-order piece that allows her to feel almost unaware of its presence because it just becomes a part of her. We all want to feel relaxed on our wedding day – we want to feel at ease when all eyes are on us, and not exposed because something just isn’t right.

In her little, Sheffield-based studio, Amanda has various pieces on the go at any one time, giving each their own personality. It is this focus on the person that is her greatest pleasure. A visit is not only enlightening as to the options out there but light-hearted, enjoyable and fun. And, of course, you might well find that your personality is met in a piece of headwear!

Discover Amanda Moon Headwearwww.amandamoon.co.ukfacebook: Amanda Moon HeadwearTwitter: A_MoonHeadwearEmail: amandamoon.co.uk

Goody BagsThink about toys and activities that don’t create too much mess, don’t make too much noise and that children can play with on their own, without a lot of parental supervision.Bubbles, colouring books, finger puppets for very young children, sticker books, activity books with word searches and puzzles, disposable cameras are all easy to source and reasonably priced.Put the treats in a fun bag or box on their chair, wrapped up like a present.If you haven’t got time or energy to make your own bags, then you can easily source these already made.

How to have happykids at your wedding

The fabulously talented Karen from Darby & Joan shares her ideas of how to keep your younger guests happy

Indoor Entertainment If your budget allows, then consider investing a professional entertainer. A caricature artist, magician, storyteller or a balloon artist are good ideas.Set up a children’s craft table, cover with paper and let them doodle away while the speeches are taking place, or for them to sit at while they wait for adults to finish their meal.Pass the parcel – always a hit!There are also lots of good table ideas at Printable Activity Books. http://printable-activity-books.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/wedding-activity-book.html

Keep them busy outsideEspecially easy to do if you are having a summer wedding and your outside space is green and the venue is happy for you to use it. Lawn games such as hoopla, a coconut shy, giant Jenga or Connect 4 are all great fun for adults too.Stage a mini sports day with a three-legged race, running races and an egg and spoon race. All you need is an adult or two to run the games and it is sure to run off any sugar rushes from their pudding.

Responsibilities Some children are full of energy and others are easily bored. Think about giving your young guests small responsibilities during key stages of the day.

Older children may want to entertain younger ones for an hour or so during the speeches. Ask them to hand out orders of service, give out the wedding cake or make use of those disposable cameras by setting a treasure hunt of things they need to photograph.Is there a room at your venue which could be set up if young children and parents need a little break from the party? A quiet room maybe with a TV films. Don’t forget to check about baby changing facilities.Children can be a lot of fun at weddings and remember that it is their parents’ ultimate responsibility to keep them entertained and I have no doubt that ipods and iphones will make an appearance too!Visit www.darbyandjoanvintage.co.uk

So he did it! He got down on one knee and proposed! Eeek! I still can't quite believe it. I have a fiancé! A man who wants to spend the rest of his life with me, make a home with me, have a family with me and grow old with me. I find myself smiling all the time, even when I'm sat in very serious and I might add boring meetings at work, I will catch the corners of my mouth rising at the very thought of marrying my Mr Right. Not only is he ridiculously wonderful, all my friends and family love him and he makes the best cooked breakfast known to man, he is my best friend and that above all else is what made me reply 'Yes I'll marry you'.As soon as the words came out of my mouth my head started whirling and everything felt very surreal. I am engaged. I am engaged to be married. I'm going to get married. I have to plan a wedding!! The thought filled me with excitement, pleasure, anxiety and apprehension. I've never been engaged before so obviously never having planned a wedding I have no idea where to start. The obligatory 'congratulations' came flooding in from friends and family and they all wanted to know - 'So have you set a date?'. No, I haven't set a date, I'm still just getting my head around the fact that I have a ring on my finger, I certainly haven't started choosing chair covers or putting together seating plans! Following this came a barrage of fifty more questions, 'Do you know what style of dress you'd like?', 'Have you thought about how you're going to decorate the venue?', 'Who's going to be your bridesmaids?', 'Do you like veils or do you think you'll go with something different?' - Oh my goodness I have no idea! I notice that my husband-to-be is not having to deal with this interrogation from his friends, a simple pat on the back, a clink of beer bottles and a 'well done' are all he receives before continuing to discuss what happened in the football at the weekend. This leads me to my first realisation about planning a wedding – apparently it is the woman’s domain.

He's done the hard part, asked the question, and now it seems that it will largely fall to me to plan the wedding. Now many women may relish this or even desire it but I am not so sure. I'm looking forward to researching wedding venues, trying on dresses, hand making favours but I had always envisaged my husband-to-be right there alongside of me. After all the excitement has died down I speak to Mr Right about my thoughts and, not so surprisingly when I think about it, he completely agrees. He wants to be there for every step of planning 'our wedding'. He even shares some ideas he has already had and makes me smile reminding me of just why I want to marry him – because he's wonderful, he's my best friend and I know him so well.

Written by our Secret Bride

Where to start? 5 top tips to help you on your way

● Do a preliminary guest list: You need to have a general idea of how many people are likely to attend so you can choose the right venue and think about costings.

● Work out your budget: Sit down with your partner and work out exactly how much you have/are prepared to spend on your wedding. Don't forget to speak to parents as they may wish to contribute or buy a particular item such as the dress or cake. Don't forget to take into account hidden costs such as wedding insurance, cost of the church, corkage charges etc.

● Write a list of 3 must haves: This will give you 3 things that you won't compromise on as a couple and will help to make clear what is important to you. You may want to consider things like – having all your family there, food, music, a local venue, being abroad, having the dress of your dreams

● Do an inspiration board: Together with your partner think about the feel and look you would like for your wedding. Putting together an inspiration board can be really useful at seeing what works and making it clear what you'd like.

● Start researching your venue: Your venue is likely to determine the date and feel of your wedding, once you have this sorted you can start thinking about the finer details.

The Secret Bride

Artwork by Gemma Milly Ilustration www.gemmamilly.com

The wedding of

Kristina & Matthew

Chantal Lachance-Gibson, fabulous photographer, shares with us Kristina and Matthews beautiful loch side wedding. 'The weather was absolutely glorious for their big day, the styling and details where simply gorgeous and the bride and groom looked amazing. Think wild flowers, shabby chic, a stunning outdoor location and their beautiful dog Phoebe as the ring bearer.

The Loch Ness Country House Hotel is an amazing venue providing a haven of tranquillity and elegant comfort. We found Kristina with her family down at the cottages they have on the grounds. It was a very relaxed atmosphere with lots of laughs and smiles in anticipation of the day ahead.Matthew was up in the Hotel with his groomsmen. Again very calm and enjoying the fantastic venue and company, with a dram of whiskey and gifts from his bride-to-be.During the ceremony Kristina was walked down the aisle by Phoebe (her dog). When her and Matthew saw each other there where big smiles all round.

Everyone was enjoyed the beautiful ceremony, glorious sunshine and stunning scenery.

The styling was by Dress The Day and alongside of this the bride and groom had created many of their wedding items themselves. A lot of thought had gone into the displays and the details tied everything together perfectly.

The room looked beautiful and the reception was great. All the guests thoroughly enjoyed themselves and the wedding couple where all smiles.

One last surprise was to have all the guests out on the deck to enjoy the fireworks by 21CC. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

Here are some of the fab suppliers they used:Venue – Loch Ness Country House HotelPhotography – Chantal Lachance-GibsonDress- Wedding BellesCake- Handmade - Kristina’s auntBunting- Handmade - Kristina’s mumFlowers- Amanda’s Creative Florist, WickBand- Midnight Specials, Freak Music, EdinburghKilt- Julie JappyStyling- Dress The Day, AlnessFireworks – 21CC

Kristina and Matthew loved their band – Midnight Specials. Kristina was even up on stage at one point. Such a fun couple.

Secret garden invitation £3.20

Discover Gemma Milly Illustration,where love meets design

www.gemmamilly.com

Water colour invitation £3.20

Secret garden guest booklet £3.20

Vintage garden save the date £3.20

Beautiful BalloonsDottie & Love welcome you to their world!

Balloons have had a wonderful makeover, move over balloon arches and say hello to gorgeous ' 'giant balloons! Teamed with glorious, hand-made tassel tails they are ready to make an impact. Giant balloons are BIG, bold and beautiful and are meant to be a statement piece. Use them as photo props, table décor or even as a backdrop. A rocking 36” sphere of wonder, they offer a sophisticated look and add height to your wedding venue styling. If you want to add a lot of visual impact, add a few oversized balloons, rather than hundreds of party sized balloons.Colours can be co-ordinated to your colour theme and a full consultation is always available. We could talk for hours about ribbon and tissue paper colours!

Trends for 2015 are gorgeous Marsala colours, balloons in place of bridesmaid posies and gorgeous giant balloons lining the aisle at the wedding ceremony. Dottie and Love are here to stay and are out to share the balloon love, one event at a time.Our advice would be to be bold and dare to be different, think giant balloons filled with air, suspended downwards from a ceiling, or multi-coloured balloons with rainbow tails, there really are no boundaries. Giant Balloons are beautiful, unique and photograph beautifully, real memory makers!

Discover more of the wonderful world of balloons at www.facebook.com/dottieandloveballoons

Styling and props by Darby & Joan LtdPhotography by Richard Murgatroyd PhotographyFlowers by Tineke Floral Designs LimitedCakes by Yummy Little CakesHair & Makeup by Kate Boyd Hair and Makeup ArtistryStationery by Best Day EverBalloons by Dottie & Love BalloonsLetter lights by Doris LovesModels from Blake Models NottinghamWedding Dress from Timeless couture

An abundance of romance

Say 'hello' to Elizabeth Malcolm BridalwearThe latest collection, Midsummer's Dream, is inspired by the opulence of Shakespeare’s heroines. This 2015 wedding dress collection utilises stunning new French chantilly lace and exudes charm and elegance.

JulietAn Empire line porcelain satin gown with stunning Chantilly lace 3/4 length sleeves finished of with the lace scallop. Pearl buttons decorate the back and a lovely delicate satin ribbon is accentuated by a small bow on the front.

OliviaA lovely porcelain satin ballerina length gown. The chiffon “illusion” bodice overlay has stunning Chantilly lace embroidered appliqué, and the working pearl buttons add that touch of extra elegance.

RosalindA beautiful dark ivory silk gown. With a large A-line skirt made up of layers of tulle and a shimmer organza. Cream coloured lace is appliquéd onto the bodice with over 500 Swarovski crystals hand beaded onto it.

OpheliaFrench Chantilly lace creates an overlay for the strapless bodice. The delicate scalloped edge has been applied to the on trend high collar and small sleeves. The full skirt has layers of tulle and chiffon to give the gown drama and movement.

Ophelia

Emily Hankins Cakes

Why did you set up Emily Hankins Cakes? My ambition for a number of years previous to the launch of Emily Hankins Cakes had been to start my own creative business. The fact that I ended up running my own bespoke, hand painted wedding cake business actually happened rather organically.I have always painted and art is definitely my first love. After studying at Falmouth College of Arts and struggling to find a job in the saturated design world I fell into catering and discovered a huge passion for baking. After many years pursuing this as a hobby my 'eureka' moment happened whilst creating an epic cake centre piece for my best friends wedding – 120 individual hand painted and completely edible teacups and saucers. I knew that what I was creating was individual and unique, using my strengths as an artist and my cakes as a canvas seem to catch peoples imagination, so in 2012 Emily Hankins Cakes was born! What makes Emily Hankins Cakes unique?I am an artist, so every cake I create is completely bespoke – from my initial sketches through to the finished product. everything is done by me, by hand – there are no transfers or templates. The look of the cake is obviously important but I think that the taste is equally an essential element . I LOVE cake, and it is really important to me that my cakes taste delicious! I use the best ingredients I can find including many sourced locally in Cornwall. Sargies Cornish Lemon Curd is to die for!

My cakes are designed and created specifically for each client and it is a pleasure to have them involved in this process. After their initial contact with me they are invited to a design consultation in my beautiful studio in Princes House in Truro. Here we chat around my vintage dining table over tea and cake about their likes and dislikes and the elements that they are using to make their day unique to them. I then gather all of this information together and create sketches for them based on these ideas. These sketches allow my clients to see their cake design in process and understand how it will look on the day. A few of my clients have actually framed their cake sketch and displayed it next to their cake as they wanted to show their guests the journey that has led up to the final product.What does a normal day involve?My lovely studio is based in Truro, so my day usually starts off on the train, where I can catch up with a few emails, admin or fill my note book with ideas for upcoming commissions – I am always sketching!

My days vary wildly to be honest... Some days are purely for baking – This usually involves me turning up the music and jigging around the kitchen! I am getting rather good at breaking huge numbers of eggs in time with the beat! Other days I can be found stacking and coating my cakes ready for decoration, making vast numbers of tea cups out of

sugar paste, crafting edible elements such as birds or flowers, piping cookies ready for hand painting or packing items ready for delivery.My favourite days are the days solely put aside for hand painting – generally the day before the wedding. On arrival at work and an essential coffee I set up my work space with brushes, edible pigments and my design sketches and sit down to work. It is a really therapeutic process, building each layer of colour to create my signature blooms. I love a bit of Radio 4 and tend to listen to this whilst I am painting! On average it takes me around 12 hours to paint a 2 tier cake, depending on the design... often I work late into the evening to complete my work. There is no such thing as 9 – 5 in my life! What advice would you give to couples buying a wedding cake?Your wedding is a wonderful chance to celebrate the things that make you and your fiancé unique, and although you will have many friends and family members making suggestions to you on the things that you should choose, ultimately the decisions are down to you. Your cake will be a beautiful feature on your special day - Choose something that reflects your tastes as a couple and fits with your venue and theme. There are no hard and fast rules about what it should look like or what sort of cake flavour it should be – you don't need to have fruit cake just because Auntie Maude has requested it!

I would also advise that you choose the size of your cake carefully... Obviously you want enough to go round but just because you have 300 guests it does not mean you necessarily need to have 300 large pieces of cake (with an extra tier just in case!) If you are serving your cake as an addition to your desert, perhaps with a cup of tea later on in the day, you will find that although many of your guests will partake in the yummy offering, many of your guests will not!Also consider any guests who may have special dietary requirements, especially if they are members of your close bridal party. Often I make individual tea cups or cakes filled with gluten free/dairy free sponge. It can mean a lot to someone who may often get overlooked at events when cake is on offer!

What cake trends do you think will be big in 2015?When I started my business I was unaware of how important a trend floral, hand painted cakes would become in 2014 – this romantic floral feel is now overflowing into 2015 and is popping up not only on cakes but on the most amazing floral wedding dresses gracing the bridal catwalks!I have also been seeing a lot of hand painted typography and calligraphy working its way into cake designs recently – This is a wonderful way of personalising your cake without the need of toppers which I am seeing less and less of.Glorious metallics are going to be huge in 2015... from gold leaf to edible sequins it is all about rich luxurious finishes and elements of decadence!For more wonderful cakes from Emily Hankins visit www.emilyhankins.co.uk

The wedding of

Andy & Nicola

Written by Laura Gray of Laura Gray Hair. Beauty. Bridal.Of all the stunning wedding locations in Scotland, this, Lodge On Loch Goil, is my favourite!Picturesque location and a dream of being married in a Tree House! What more could you want? Well maybe some non Scottish weather!Driving through Loch Lomond, on an early autumn day is good for the Soul. On my way to the venue to look after the bride, I think about Nicola, Andy and their family who have all travelled up from Wales...which reflects what a stunning and extra special wedding venue this is.Arriving at the Lodge is something to be done slowly. The beautiful drive, the views, the exquisite wrought iron gates, the slope down to the house and the gasp at the Tree House on the banks of Loch Goil, you have to do all of this with ease. So many things that imprint on your mind; that no matter the weather, this location is ever changing and breathtaking.

The beautiful bride, Nicola, is feeling great and we head straight to the master suite to start the morning's transformation. With its wrap around balcony to take in every view, this is where I go first to breathe in this stunning morning, feeding my creativity!Morning tea is delivered with the most amazing sandwiches and scones, tea and cakes. Now this is another reason I adore coming to this venue...we are always so well looked after.The morning is going perfectly and the bride is relaxed and enjoying the preparations. Her stunning Claire Pettibone gown is hanging in the suite, inspiring a vintage glamour feel, and a faux fur bolero to enhance the vintage look. I create a classic Vintage Roll style for Nicola's hair, complimented by a bespoke, handmade clasp that was the combination of two original period brooches made into a special keepsake.

Its 2pm and everyone is ready. With a fun filled wedding morning passing, it turns into the reality of a ceremony taking place! With slightly more nerves, a little anxiety and plenty of sips of champagne...the final photographs are being taken and I wish them all well with hugs and it's time to leave this amazing venue.The drive home is wonderful and with this being the first visit to the Lodge with my assistant I am buzzing from her enthusiasm and love of the venue too.Another amazing bride in my favourite location. One for the Soul.

Hair & make-up by Laura Gray at

Laura Gray Hair, Beauty, Bridal at www.lauragray.co.ukPhotography by Fotogenic of Scotland at www.fotogenicofscotland.co.uk

Bridal gown by Claire Pettibone at www.clairepettibone.comFlowers by Helensburgh Flowers at www.helensburghflowershop.co.uk

Venue - The Lodge at www.thelodge-scotland.com

Pyramid chocolates £4.50

www.thewhimsicalcakecompany.co.uk

Cookies £4.50 each

Caramel Apple - £4.50

Pyramid chocolates £4.50

Pyramid chocolates £4.50

White cookie – £4.00

Cookie/ pyramid chocolate £4.50

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Meet Sarah Pike, the face behind Mrs Umbels, with a shed on her husband's tree nursery she creates beautiful and unique floral bouquets, displays and more. Using flowers grown on the Mrs Umbels cutting patch, each bouquet is bespoke, designed and created to match the bride, her colours and her style. Sarah often gets asked to make things a little out of the ordinary, flower elephants, woven willow hearts for photobooths, filled wellies with flowers and tandem bicycles have become quite the norm for this fabulously creative floral designer. See more of Sarah's creations at www.mrs-umbels.co.uk

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Wildernesswedding shoot

Styling, Design & Production - Lemonbox Studios Ltd at www.lemonboxstudios.comPhotography - Chantal Lachance Gibson Photographyat www.photographychantal.co.ukFlorals - Sparrow and Rose at www.sparrowandrose.comHair and make up - Laura Gray at www.lauragray.co.ukCatering and cake - Three Sisters Bake at www.threesistersbake.co.ukDress - Flossy and Dossy at www.flossyanddossy.co.uk Kilt - Slanj Kilts at www.slanjkilts.com

The perfect finishing

touch

Every bride wants to feel unique and special on her wedding day and that is what Sash + Veil is all about. We aim to create beautiful heirloom bridal accessories for women who seek exquisite and original pieces. Adding the right accessories can transform a wedding gown into something truly fabulous. A gorgeous vintage-inspired sash can be the perfect finishing touch to an already glamorous dress, or can transform a simple gown into something truly sumptuous.With over 20 years’ experience, Heather, the creator of Sash + Veil, has a background in luxury fashion, having studied at London College of Fashion and Ravensbourne and since graduating has gained a wealth of experience in small London studios, often working alongside high profile designers on couture commissions. One such commission convinced Heather that she could combine her love of exquisite materials, beads and trims with her passion for hand-beading and sewing to a create wearable piece; and Sash + Veil was born.

Our forte is producing unique, unusual pieces where the approach is highly skilled, hands-on, and the materials are always the very best. We have a vast collection of vintage and modern trimmings from which we carefully select each element to create something that is essentially a work of art. In our finishes and colours, we always try to embody a sumptuous, rich, vintage feel, to make our designs instantly recognisable as Sash + Veil.

….and our passion is detail – it’s the attention to detail that sets one particular outfit aside from the rest and we hope this that shines through in our hand embroidered veils, scattered with the tiniest delicate flowers, our sparkling diamanté encrusted sashes and our silky garters in faded vintage colours. Simple or complex, they embody romance and artistry – a vision of delicacy and beauty, that subtly harks back to days gone by.

Our pieces are designed, created and hand-finished in our studio near the sea. It is a veritable Aladdin’s cave of glamour and sparkle with images pinned here and there to provide essential inspiration, sparking diamanté glittering on the work table and delicate lace draped across chairs. We often work with individual brides, collaborating on a piece that is unique to them. We can work a particular colour theme into the crystals or silks and we can even incorporate a piece of the bride’s own jewellery or maybe a string of treasured pearls which belonged to her grandmother or a special aunt. We also can finish off the piece with a tiny silver charm engraved with a special message and the date of the wedding.

Our desire to create beauty goes right down to the packaging. Each piece comes nestled in crispy tissue paper, in a luxury black box tied with silky ribbons, something to treasure forever or pass to the next generation.Discover more at www.facebook.com/sashandveil

Gemma Milly talks about her fabulously indulgent calligraphy classes

good for the soul

I am so excited to bring you news of my brand new and utterly indulgent calligraphy workshops. I know so many of you have fallen for the undeniable delights of calligraphy and I also know that lovely and luxurious experiences are good for the soul so I’ve combined the two to create a beginner’s calligraphy workshop that is the most perfect outing for lovers of paper pretty. Held in a beautiful Georgian drawing room at The Red Lemon in Notting Hill, my workshops are both practical and pampering. During our three hours together, I’ll introduce you to traditional copperplate & modern calligraphy, we’ll work through the basics of letterforms and alphabets and then practice those skills as well as looking at inks, pens, nibs and papers too. By the time we say goodbye, you’ll have created a beautiful piece of stationery to take home with you.

Need To Know:Workshop held upstairs at The Red Lemon, Notting Hill, London, W11 1HE.Saturday 28th March 2015 & Sunday 19th April.2-5pm.Refreshments & canapés, of a rather glamorous nature, are included.Everyone will take home a goody bag containing all the class materials plus private contact details for follow up questions or queries.There will be an opportunity afterwards to grab a glass of something and ask Gemma all of your burning lettering-based questions.

1. Have your wedding later in the day and forego the traditional wedding breakfastYou can still have the perfect big day delaying your ceremony until 3pm or 4pm. This will allow you to have a wonderful and relaxing morning with family and your bridesmaids before marrying the love of your life. You can still spoil your guests with a scrumptious evening meal and dancing the night away without having to spend twice as much on food. 2. Invite your guests to bring a cakeRather than asking for presents, why not invite your guests to bring a cake and have a dessert table? This saves you having to buy a cake, a cost that can range from a hundred to hundreds of pounds. It also means you don't have to pay for dessert for all your guests, everyone will have something they like and you end up with a lovely looking table of scrumptious!3. Shop handmade!We're all about DIY and making the most of Britain's fabulous small businesses. You can save so much by shopping around and speaking directly vendors. Our directory is packed full of fantastic sellers and sites like Etsy and Folksy allow you to source handmade items that are made just for you. Whilst you might think that having bespoke wedding items would cost more, often sellers are able to charge less as they deal directly with you and have no costs of running a physical shop.

4. Avoid peak wedding timesHaving your wedding on a Saturday, bank holiday or in the summer months drastically increases the amount you'll pay. Consider having your wedding on a Sunday or even a weekday if you know your friends and family can be flexible. Why not have a winter wedding and make the most of this beautiful season. Booking a venue in the winter months is on average half the price of the same venue in June, July or August.5. Be different!Don't be afraid to think outside the box and do things the way you want to do them. There is no wedding book that sets out rules of how your day should be so let your imagination and creativity go wild and make the day of your dreams. This can save you a fortune by not sticking to the traditional wedding ideals. You might want to avoid the traditional white wedding dress, throw a BBQ for your guests, do karaoke instead of hiring a band, make anything and everything yourself, the world is your oyster allowing you to be thrifty along the way! Featuring:The Whimsical Cake Co www.thewhimsicalcakecompany.co.ukSwoon at the Moon www.swoonatthemoon.co.ukMarque the Date www.marquethedate.co.ukLisa Wagner Designs www.lisawagnerdesigns.comPompom Blossom www.etsy.com/uk/shop/pompomblossomDidi's Cookies www.facebook.com/didiscookiesClaudia Montano www.claudiamontano.co.ukChantal Lachance Gibson www.photographychantal.co.uk

5 ways to save money and still have a fabulous wedding

TEAM HENOriginal hen party gifts and accessories

www.team- hen.com

Grace Kelly print £10.99

Personalised bride to be badge £3.50

Eyeliner print £10.99

Wish bracelet £2.25

Badge £1.25

Always classy print £10.99

Be inspired!Inspiration boards created by the very talented Sophie Stewart

Whether you know exactly the colour palette you want for your wedding or you have absolutely no idea, let us give you

some ideas and inspiration!

Barely there blush

Dresses - Style me pretty www.stylemepretty.comBlooms - Pompom Blossom www.etsy.com/ uk/ shop/ pompomblossom

Bouquet - Mrs Umbels www.mrs- umbels.co.ukShoes unknown

Spring pastels

Bouquet - Daisy lane Floral Design www.daisylanefloraldesign.co.uk Cookie – The Whimsical Cake Company www.thewhimsicalcakecompany.co.ukGiant Blooms - Pompom Blossom www.etsy.com/ uk/ shop/ pompomblossom

Bouquet - Mrs Umbels www.mrs- umbels.co.uk

Peonies & roses

Dresses - Vera Wang ww.verawang.com/ EN/ UK Paper peony and roses, giant paper peonies - Pompom Blossom www.etsy.com/ uk/ shop/ pompomblossom

Bouquet - Mrs Umbels www.mrs- umbels.co.uk

Dove grey & champagne

Make up and hair - Lipstick and Curls www.lipstickandcurls.net Dress unknown

Mini gilded paper daisies - Pompom Blossom www.etsy.com/ uk/ shop/ pompomblossomHand- dyed paper poms - Pompom Blossom www.etsy.com/ uk/ shop/ pompomblossom

Bouquet - Mrs Umbels www.mrs- umbels.co.uk

Cookie - The Whimsical Cake Company www.thewhimsicalcakecompany.co.ukMacarons - Medici Macarons www.medicimacarons.co.uk

Floral crown - Amanda Moon Headwear www.amandamoon.co.uk Paper ranunculus - Pompom Blossom www.etsy.com/ uk/ shop/ pompomblossom

Dress uknown

Fuchsia

A girl should be two things,classy and fabulous!

-Coco ChanelDiscover the Pro Bridal

Team Scotland story

All good businesses between friends, are developed one way, over a bottle of champagne! Pro Bridal Team Scotland Ltd is no different. My business partner and I, Anne Marie McElroy have both 15 years experience in the wedding industry and it was through our own business demand that we decided to develop our own brand...Pro Bridal Team Scotland Ltd was born! Through a lengthy interview process we accept fully qualified hair and make up artists and then enhance their skills. We train, nurture, encourage and support them to perform in a way that is recognisable as the PBTS brand! All our stylists are exceptional and we have been involved in some incredible weddings and styled photo shoots. My business partner and I, are both multiple award winners in our field at a National level. Working hard training for 12 months we now have 13 flourishing, outstanding stylists whose aim on every wedding day is to exceed the clients expectations delivering a five star service. With confirmed wedding bookings in for 2015 and 2016, our brand is in demand for its exceptional standards and customer service. What makes us different, is that we are the only professionally trained wedding hair and make up team in Scotland providing a five star service to every client and wedding we are involved with. Our vision is to go GLOBAL!For the PBTS brand to be a household name...locally, nationally & internationally...for everyone who is looking to create the best hair, make up, weddings and photo shoots.

For more information visit:www.probridalteamscotland.coninfo@probridalteamscotland.com07813964066

Featuring:Struve Photography

Flossy & Dossy Cat Roberston make up

Pro Bridal Team Scotland Ltd hair

Modern day wish bracelets are fast becoming the friendship bracelet equivalent of the 1990s, and thankfully much less neon!Wish Bracelets originate from Brazil, where it is said a wise shaman in the Amazon jungle claimed the health and happiness of his people was due to the secrets of the Wish Bracelet. They were said to be magical and able to answer the wishes of those who wished with a pure and unselfish heart.The idea behind the Wish Bracelets is a simple, yet sweet one. As you tie the bracelet on you’re to make a wish – once the cord frays and breaks your wish is said to come true. Though this is unlikely to be scientifically proven any time soon – the sentiment is clear, and appeals to all ages.Wish Bracelets lend themselves to a wide variety of occasions. They make fantastic wedding table favours for those looking for something a bit different; hen party favours for your nearest and dearest; or a lovely, original way to ‘propose’ to your flower girls or bridesmaids. Each Wish Bracelet is available in a variety of colours and charms, and is presented on its own individual backing card, which itself is fully customisable.Our Wish Bracelets use 100% hemp cord, which is a natural, biodegradable, and eco-friendly alternative to cotton and synthetic cordage. Our charms are all Tibetan silver, and 100% lead and nickel free.Visit our ETSY store for our full range – or request a custom order and have something made just for you and your occasion!Website: www.etsy.com/uk/shop/thewishbracelet Email: hello@thewishbracelet.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/thewishbracelet Written by The Wish Bracelet

Wish Bracelets – a brief history of

Let love bloomWe speak to Ruth Keeley about her fabulous business that brings nature into your big day in the most beautiful way.I started the business in early 2014 after we moved into our new home and was truly inspired by the fabulous garden that came with the property here in Derbyshire. I started to collect seeds initially, and then this expanded to experimenting with drying flower petals, and Natural Favours was born! We now sell a collection of personalised wildflower and bird seed packets which can all be personalised, real flower petal confetti, luggage tags, favours and are expanding our range all the time. We are lucky enough to have our products stocked in local Derbyshire shops as well as selling directly online in our

shop. Additionally we have a partnership with Long Clawson Dairy Ltd who sell deliciously unique cheese wedding cakes and our confetti comes with every purchase.We like to be as eco-friendly as we can and use local, British suppliers when we cannot grow or create our own items. Much of our packaging uses 100% recycled materials.In 2015 we are aiming to grow more of our own confetti stock in-house with new additions to our rose and delphinium collections already planted.Visit www.naturalfavours.com for more information about Natural Favours

OUR contributorsAmanda Moon Headwear www.amandamoon.co.ukDarby & Joan Ltd www.darbyandjoanvintage.co.uk

Gemma Milly Illustration www.gemmamilly.comDottie & Love Balloons www.facebook.com/dottieandloveballoons

Elizabeth Malcolm Bridalwear www.elizabethmalcolm.co.ukEmily Hankins Cakes www.emilyhankins.co.uk

The Whimsical Cake Company www.thewhimsicalcakecompany.co.ukMrs Umbels www.mrs-umbels.co.uk

Styling, Design & Production www.lemonboxstudios.comChantal Lachance-Gibson Photography www.photographychantal.co.uk

Sparrow and Rose www.sparrowandrose.comLaura Gray Hair. Beauty. Bridal. www.lauragray.co.uk

Three Sisters Bake www.threesistersbake.co.ukFlossy and Dossy www.flossyanddossy.co.uk

Slanj Kilts www.slanjkilts.comSash & veil www.facebook.com/sashandveil

Team Hen www.team-hen.comSophie Stewart www.etsy.com/shop/pompomblossom

Probridal Team Scotland www.probridalteamscotland.comThe Wish Bracelet www.etsy.com/uk/shop/thewishbracelet

Natural Favours www.naturalfavours.com

OUR DIRECTORYSet up for the style conscious bride who wants to know where her items come from and what their story is, we ensure all our vendors either hand make their items or offer a totally bespoke service. We get to know them and it is only when we are happy that they fit the SwoonNose way that they make it into our fabulous Directory. It is because of this unique partnership that we can be confident that you will find quality, creativity and flair within our exclusive Directory. Coupled with this, we know that each of our vendors provide the best customer service possible ensuring that you are treated as you should be, like you're the only girl in the world.You can get to know our vendors through our website at www.swoonnose.com as they regularly feature in our blog. Here they share their ideas and inspiration as well as their processes and how they work. If you want your wedding items to have provenance, SwoonNose is for you. We're confident that you will find what you are looking for within the SwooonNose Directory but should there be something you'd like that you can't find then please contact us as we know lots of lovely people who may just be able to help. You can get in touch at hello@swoonnose.com or via facebook at www.facebook.com/swoonnose

Now you've found the one,enjoy finding everything else

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Join the SwoonNose family!If you hand make wedding items or offer a totally bespoke service and

want to be featured on SwoonNose just get in touch at hello@swoonnose.com

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