Look what catches the eye of the editor with a special emphasis on local Essex wedding businesses, shops and suppliers.
Orsett Hall has an on-site chapel, licensed to conduct religious and non-religious wedding ceremonies, as well as civil partnerships. Its stunning interior resembles something out of a fairytale and must be seen in person to be fully appreciated. Designed in soothing pastel tones and framed by elegant white beams covered in white flowers, the Chapel offers traditional seating and a large balcony where additional guests can be seated and music can be played.
The gazebo offers couples the opportunity to get married outdoors within the gardens of Orsett Hall. Perfect for weddings in the summer months, it offers couples an intimate setting al fresco. All function rooms are also licensed for wedding ceremonies.
The Gold Room with its exquisite chandeliers, period fireplace and large window areas, is a bright and welcoming setting for a wedding. It can cater for up to 100 guests seated, and up to 200 for an evening reception.
Whitmore is decorated in warm rich tones and can comfortably accommodate up to 140 seated guests, or 250 for a standing reception. It includes a large bar and is the perfect venue for a special occasion.
The Grahame Thomas Pavilion is the largest suite; it contains its own private bar and can seat up to 520 people for a banquet or wedding. The Pavilion is fully air-conditioned and even boasts its own koi carp pond and bridge, where outside seating is also provided.
For further information, visit: www.orsetthall.co.uk
Hatfield Place is a historic Georgian country house sitting within its own grounds of approximately 15 acres. The House can be reached by a tree-lined driveway that leads to a large, gravelled sweep to the front of the house.
The house offers a true country house feel, with a welcoming reception hall, beautiful Ballroom leading out to the terrace and an elegant Drawing Room. In addition to the house, we have a beautiful Orangery within the Walled Garden which has been carefully landscaped to create the perfect balance of the English country garden but with a modern-day twist. Fourteen luxurious bedroom suites are also available with each room being individually styled and furnished to a very high standard.
For further information, visit: www.hatfieldplace.co.uk
Is your mum still looking for her W Day outfit? Rachel from Christine's Occasion Wear says...
"Pale blue, Silver and white are popular colours this year. Navy is still very dominant too. The Bardot neckline is one of the most popular trends for 2023." Check out: https://christinesoccasionwear.co.uk
Hello from your new Editor of An Essex Wedding! I'm here to fill you in on all the happenings in this fabulous area. OK, I'm biased, as I live with my family in Coggeshall! Watch out for my first March/April issue of An Essex Wedding magazine which, as always, you can read for free... but in the meantime, here's a photo of me marrying my own Prince Charming some 9 years ago!
It's my last 'Editor Loves' as your Editor at this gorgeous wedding title. I've loved every minute but it's time to move on to pasture's new, so I am handing over to the oh-so-capable Rachel from the next issue. Please remember to have fun when planning your day - here's a sneaky shot of one of my favourites from my own Gosfield Hall wedding back in 2008. "Do you want a drink?" was definitely what our mate Andy was saying, which I'll treasure forever more thanks to him offering one to our gorgeous Nanny Peg, who's sadly no longer with us. Signing off - it's been lovely Editing this title. x
Laura met Mike on dating site Elite Singles. “It's hard to envisage how we could have met any other way, seeing as we were both so busy with our jobs,” says Laura. “After a few weeks sending messages we had our first date in a country pub. Mike was every bit the charming, charismatic gentleman – plus he was tall, dark and handsome, so I was on to a winner! The banter flowed easily, plus we both love animals, which was a big bonus as I'm a veterinary nurse. It was clear from that first date that we both knew this was something special.”
See their amazing Gosfield Hall day in all its spendour, over in our latest issue!
“Boho is still a big wedding trend, evolving recently towards geometric party props and retro shapes,” says Laura Celiz from Braintree's Rock The Day. “Pampas grass and dried florals are key to this look, with the gorgeous fusion of bespoke elements and natural materials proving very popular. Carefully selected theme and party props can make or break this trend, with boho-style dome shaped backdrops in warm earthy colours, as well as wicker and bamboo lampshades, dyed muslin drapes and runners.”
Visit www.rocktheday.co.uk for more of your Essex wedding venue styling needs
Another wedding snapper whose wedding pics I am loving right now is Essex-based Shianne Mercer Photography. “My style is best described as natural, emotive and story-telling,” explains Shianne. “I understand the importance of formal group portraits, but also like my photos to tell a visual story. I love that each day is different, and how each moment is a precious memory created on one of the most magical moments of your life."
With prices starting from £1,300, contact www.shiannemercerphotography.com for more info.
It's funny how life goes around in circles, isn't it? I first met Chris around 15 years ago when we both worked on magazines: me as a journalist and Chris as the graphic designer! Lo and behold, he popped up again after all these years as a wedding photographer! Shooting with his wife and based in Colchester, this shot epitomises what weddings should be all about – fun with your nearest and dearest.
For more of their shots and info check out Chris Bradshaw Photography.
I asked Catherine Bullen, of Southend-based Catherine Bullen Hair, how to create a timeless style for your day...
"When picking the perfect look for your wedding, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, your wedding dress and neckline, as your hair should complement your dress, and not compete with it. It's also important to look and feel comfortable on the day, ensuring you're the most radiant version of you, while enhancing your natural beauty."
Visit www.catherinebullenhair.co.uk for more information on her bridal hair services.
To help you find inspiration for your big day, take a look at what's caught the eye of our editors.
There are literally hundreds of ideas, products and services from wedding suppliers across the UK along with links to their web sites as pointed out by our ever resourceful team.
Take a look at what our Editors Love!
