Look what catches the eye of the editor with a special emphasis on local Essex wedding businesses, shops and suppliers.
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.
Crondon Park is an established wedding venue, located in the picturesque village of Stock. Ceremonies take place in the fairy light-adorned Ryder Room, with a maximum seated capacity of 100 – or hold your wedding outdoors in the recently-refurbished Baronial Gardens, with fountain and atmospheric lighting.
Visit www.crondonpark.com for more info
I love getting information on a new Essex venue, so say hello to St Osyth Priory, now taking bookings for summer 2023 at the estate's newly refurbished wedding venue, Darcy House!
Visited twice by Queen Elizabeth I during her royal progresses of the 16th century, the estate currently boasts two main function suites, each with the capacity for 110 seated guests. However, it's just the start of the story, with the restoration of the historic site set to see further wedding facilities introduced. Head over to www.stosythpriory.com/weddings-conferance to find out more!
I for one love reading how our wedding couples met, with Louise and Dewar finding love over motorbikes! “My dad owned a motorbike shop, and after chatting we realised Dewar had bought his first bike there before we even knew each other!” says Louise.
Want to read all about their incredible day? Head to page 36 of our November/December issue at www.anessex.wedding/free-download
Having little ones at weddings makes for amazing photos and incredible memories, but it can be stressful for the parents, who could well spend most of your day running around after them!
Why not book Essex-based Ultimate Event Childcare as a much-needed surprise? They're a DBS-checked childcare business that provides all the care you need for kids on your wedding day!
Head to www.instagram.com/ultimateeventchildcare to find out more.
Want live music for your wedding? Try Stock-based Sweet Melody. We are a unique combined sound of sax, vocals and keys, playing relaxing tunes throughout the decades,” says Kaytie James. “We aim to create a wonderful ambience for any wedding, gently playing in the background while you enjoy your special day with your nearest and dearest.”
Head to www.sweetmelody.co.uk to find out more.
I'm in love with this Ivory & Co Wintersweet Hairclip! Priced at just £55 from Leigh on Sea's Niche Jewellery, it's a stylish bridal accessory solution for any season.
Head to www.nichejewellery.co.uk to see more of their offerings, or see my jewellery and accessories feature in the latest issue of the magazine here: www.anessex.wedding/free-download
Want to win one of two £100 vouchers to spend at Braintree's The Treatment Rooms?
I for one can vouch for the talent of owner Emma – she's been keeping my beauty needs in check for years now! Specialising in laser hair removal, waxing, facials, skin boosters, micro needling, mesotherapy and more, head over to www.anessex.wedding/giveaways to enter – and visit The Treatment Rooms website at https://thetreatmentroomsessex.com to see their wide range of services.
If, like my husband, you're not a fan of having your picture taken, then why not consider a pre-engagement shoot?
"Engagement shoots are the perfect opportunity to be photographed by your chosen photographer without the inevitable pressure of the wedding day," says Rayleigh's John Payton Film & Photography.
Head to www.johnpaytonphotography.com to find out more.
More and more people want their fur babies at their wedding – and I for one love looking at the photos of it! Want a sitter to help care of your dog(s) at your big day?
Drop Rebecca Cater from Sible Hedingham's Woofs & Weddings a message and see how she can help you! www.woofsandweddings.co.uk
We have a great line up of experts to give you first hand advice and discussions about bridal fashion, hair, makeup, to name but a few!
Take a look at our Celebrity Interviews!