Editor loves and inspiration

As soon as I saw this regional shoot, I knew it had to be included!

Shot at Captain's Wood, a restored barn in acres of woodland, it's romantic, natural – and altogether magical!

Be sure to watch out for the November/December issue; coming soon to download for FREE over at www.anessex.wedding/free-download – to see the shoot in all its glory.

Want a nice tan for your big day?

Head to Colchester's e.m.skin clinic & beauty for the best sun-kissed look. "We've worked with Vita Liberata for many years; well-known for being an organic tanning brand that leaves you with a beautiful, golden glow," says owner Emily Farrell.

Visit www.emskinclinicandbeauty.co.uk to find out more.

For their evening reception Ellen and Aidan hired some retro arcade games from Eco Event Hire. "Everyone loved them!" said the bride.

See their wedding in all its splendour by visiting www.anessex.wedding/free-download

Lauren met Russ on dating app Bumble. “We had our first date on the 1st October, 2016 – and had already booked two holidays together six weeks later!” laughs the bride. “I loved how Russ made me laugh without even meaning to. He's kind and thoughtful, and we have similar ambitions. Life just feels exciting being with him. Russ says he fell for my kindness, positive attitude towards life, and the way I can light up any room I'm in with my personality.”

See their gorgeous wedding in all its glory in our latest issue, which you can read here: www.anessex.wedding/free-download

This week I'm loving Rayleigh illustrator Kirstybowks Bespokes, who sketches in real-time to create unique keepsakes that will forever capture the magic of your special day.

Choose her Intimate Wedding Package, £350, which includes live drawing for two and a half hours during drinks or your evening reception, plus an additional A4 illustration of you as newlyweds after the event. Alternatively, there's her Wedding Bell Package, £450, again offering an illustration of the pair of you – but with four hours of live drawing for your guests to enjoy!

Visit www.instagram.com/kirstybowks_bespokes to find out how to book.

Bridesmaids stressing over what to wear? "Try not to worry – this is something we have seen many times before! Start by arranging an appointment at your bridal boutique together, where you can envisage how you'd ideally like your bridal party to look. Often ideas evolve during the appointment once the girls have tried on a selection of dresses, and any reputable boutique will be on hand every step of the way to guide and advise, ensuring your vision is met."

Claire Longman and Claire Bird, Amara Bridal www.amarabridalandprom.co.uk

One bride asks us: My mum is going on about us getting a chimney sweep to attend our wedding as she's adamant it's tradition. What's she going on about?

Want to know the answer or why they are lucky? We'll give you a clue... it involves a King, a runaway horse – and a sweep who grabbed the reins!

Find out the answer from Dave Coxell of www.ashesandsmoke.com in our latest issue!

Head to the September/October issue of An Essex Wedding to win this exclusive Colchester Zoo encounter, which provides you and your loved one with the chance to meet your favourite animal, worth £200!

Visit www.colchester-zoo.com for more info and head to www.anessex.wedding/giveaways for how to enter.

How cool would it be for you or your other half to arrive at the venue in a chopper? Romford's Excel Helicopters can fly you from your door to your venue – or from your venue to any UK airport to depart for your honeymoon. Their helicopters are stylish, sleek and spacious, so you won't need to worry about being squashed in the back, either!

https://excelhelicopters.co.uk

Grazing tables are still as popular as ever when it comes to feeding your guests. “We offer a variety of sweet and savoury grazing styles, from our ever popular signature cheese and charcuterie graze, to afternoon tea,” says Scarlett Harkin from Dedham's The Cinnamon Roe Co. "If you want to treat your guests to something sweet as well, we can provide anything from macaroons to personalised cake pops.”

www.instagram.com/cinnamonroeco