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Valleys Life magazine's essential guide to making your special day truly wonderful with our selection of the best wedding suppliers from across South Wales.
WEDDING LIST
There may be wedding bloggers,
national magazines and even apps
available giving ideas and tips for
your big day, but there's really nothing like having a gorgeous and (most importantly) regional magazine to bring you ideas and suppliers from your area.
If you're after the perfect wedding venue, The Celtic Manor has all the ingredients to make sure your wedding day is memorable (and you and your guests can enjoy a round of golf too).
If you're after the perfect wedding venue, The Celtic Manor has all the ingredients to make sure your wedding day is memorable (and you and your guests can enjoy a round of golf too).
We feature the beautiful Miskin Manor. Set in twenty-two acres of stunning countryside, this gorgeous country house hotel has a reputation for creating fairytale weddings. We speak to one happy couple who, for one perfect day, made it their own.
We showcase bespoke jeweller Matthew Mullooly, of Northern Star and three couples explain why they chose Matthew to create their beautiful wedding bands.
We have Julie T, a must visit boutique for the ladies, and Hawkes Essentials for the gentlemen. Martin Phillips from Porthcawl is an extremely talented portrait and wedding photographer and takes credit for the beautiful images on this page.
Also from Porthcawl, we present RMA Williams Jewellers and, on the same page, Knife & Fork Catering for all your catering requirements and The Shop of Cowbridge for gorgeous wedding gifts.
Cocoa & Co can look after your wedding favours and harpist John Thomas can serenade your guests. Suzanne Jaya offers style advice (especially if the mother of the bride needs a little assistance before the big day) and Elite Casino Parties can provide fun, glamour and excitement.
We feature Jenny Wren and Aston Martin if you really want to spoil yourself or the happy couple.
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Miskin Manor, a country house hotel with 43 individually designed bedrooms and 22 acres of glorious gardens, is, quite simply, a stunning venue in a beautiful and picturesque setting. It's little wonder then that it's one of the most popular venue choices in South Wales.
PERFECT DAY
We spoke to happy couple Tom and
Beccy Roberts who made Miskin Manor their own for a day.
Why did you choose Miskin Manor as your wedding venue?
It's such a stunning venue and we knew we wanted a summer wedding, so the beautiful gardens were a real attraction for both of us. We were particularly drawn to its intimacy and the fact that we could have both the ceremony and reception there as well as having plenty of rooms for guests to stay in. We had our ceremony in the Minstrel Gallery which feels very much like a little chapel, and afterwards our wedding breakfast and evening reception were in the Terrace Suite, which was perfect.
Did you look at other venues?
Yes, we looked at a number of venues in Cardiff and around South East Wales, but fell in love with the beautiful setting of Miskin Manor.
Did you enjoy working with Miskin's wedding co-ordinator?
Lauren was absolutely fantastic. She couldn't do enough to help us and we both agreed that she was influential in ensuring that everything went smoothly on the day. She is very calm and professional which is reassuring and was also very helpful with any planning headaches that arose and last-minute panics! Just before I walked into the ceremony room, I suddenly thought to myself 'when do I walk in?'. I looked at Lauren and she must have seen a bit of panic in my face and she reassured me.
Did you stay at the Manor?
We stayed at Miskin on the night of our wedding along with approximately 50 of our guests (including families with small children), mostly family and a few friends. We had a beautiful room with champagne waiting for us when we arrived and lots of people commented on how lovely their rooms were.
How did the day go?
The day was perfect! It really went without a hitch. We both put a lot of effort into the preparations in the run up, but on the day itself, we had to hand over the responsibility to Lauren and the team at Miskin to make sure that everything ran smoothly. We were really happy with the food and the service at the wedding breakfast.
We had all of our photos outside and there were plenty of places for photos inside if it had rained. It's funny actually, you seem to spend so much time thinking about the weather in the run up to the 'big day' but on the day itself I don't think I even noticed what the weather was like. The transitions from ceremony to drinks reception, to wedding breakfast and finally to the evening reception were seamless.
In addition to Lauren's fantastic organisation, I have to say a special thank you to our amazing photographers Andy and Sacha Stoyle (ALS Photography) who recommended a number of our other suppliers (hairdressers, make up and florist) and who produced a beautiful album of our wedding day.
Did you have entertainment?
The String Quartet Company played during our ceremony and the drinks reception. We then had a disco in the evening (SG Disco's). They also provided background music during the wedding breakfast. We also had a Twmpath for about an hour and a half to kick off the evening's entertainment with the Pluck and Squeeze band, who were brilliant. We were a bit unsure about how this would be received but everyone got really involved and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Where did you honeymoon?
We went to Malaysia and had the time of our lives. The first couple of nights were spent at the Mandarin Oriental in Kuala Lumpur before we moved on to Borneo. We saw orang-utans in the rainforest which was an amazing experience, and has always been a dream of ours!
How's married life?
Absolutely amazing! We had been together for ten years before getting engaged, so we wondered whether married life would change anything. However, it definitely has made things a lot more special. We have been celebrating our anniversary every month so far and hope we can keep that up for years to come!
Would you recommend Lauren and Miskin Manor to friends?
Most definitely, and we have already done so!
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DESIGNED FOR LIFE
Matthew Mullooly of Northern Star in Penarth specialises in designing and creating bespoke jewellery using precious metals and gemstones. It's the place to go if you're looking for an individual and much admired engagement or wedding ring.
You'll be involved in creating a unique piece of jewellery that you'll love to wear. The use of a computer aided design programme (CAD) enables the wedding band to be precisely custom fitted to your engagement ring, and for you to see 3D images and make minor adjustments before it is finally cast.
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I had been looking on the high street for an engagement ring for Claire for quite some time. I new that I wanted a pear shaped Diamond around 1ct in weight but wasn't really confident enough to just make a decision. Matthew helped me to decide what options would be better for the design. He sourced a few diamonds within my budget and I then picked the one I preferred. My proposal was a complete surprise to Claire and she was delighted. I really hadn't been brave enough to commit to any one particular ring before I had Matthew's help. We are currently now having our wedding bands made by Matt.
Richard and Claire
I wanted my wedding band to consist of the diamonds from my grandmother's eternity ring and of course wanted it to match with my engagement ring.
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Matthew Mullooly of Northern Star directed and advised on the style and shape and produced exactly the design that I had envisioned. The service was first class and Matthew was friendly, confident and couldn't do enough to make the process of creating the perfect wedding band as easy as possible. Exactly what you want as a bride to be.
Oliver and Nia Pugh
Matthew listened to my thoughts for the design of the ring I really wanted and then helped create exactly what I had in mind. Matthew was genuinely understanding, professional, and patient and provided a first-class service. I was over the moon with the final product which provided me with a new, unique and very sentimental engagement ring. I have received many admiring comments for the ring and it is really special being able to describe the story including the sentiments that go with it. Thank you once again Matthew for helping create my perfect dream ring.
Alison Levy
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Julie T
Fun, funky and slightly quirky is how women from the bride and groom's side of the wedding party want to look. Julie T stocks eclectic pieces for modern women in their forties and fifties who want to look fabulous.
Irish label Daisy May is a hot contender with striking, classic 'Jackie O' frocks, jackets, coats and 1960s-inspired designs in memorable colours and strong shapes. For a 'body con' look try Gina Bacconi's signature silhouetteenhancing 'bandage' dresses or something from Prom Idol that cleverly fits the body and disguises at the same time with co-ordinating boleros.
1 Windsor Terrace, Penarth CF64 1AA
029 2070 8784 |
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Martin Phillips
Martin Phillips Weddings make your special day theirs too! Just as important as finding 'the' dress is choosing the right photographer, to capture the magical moments that tell the story of your wedding day.
After all, when the last champagne cork has been popped and the honeymoon is over, viewing your wedding photographs brings back the joy and emotion of your big event, forever!
Martin's wife Julie says, "There is something lovely about being asked to share in the intimate and emotional moments of a couple's most memorable day. Everyone looks fabulous, people are happy and feeling the love. Even the good old British weather can't dampen the excitement everyone shares on a wedding day.
It's all about the chemistry! If you feel relaxed together then getting great pictures on the day is going to be so much easier and more enjoyable. By building up a good relationship and learning more about you beforehand, we can be more creative and produce pictures that reflect your individual style and personalities.
We have so much fun when we take our couples out for their pre-wedding shoot. We think it is so essential to spend a few hours together before the date of the actual wedding that we include a pre-shoot in all our wedding packages. Your favourite portrait from the shoot will then be brought along to your reception, for your guests to sign with lovely messages, after which we will have it framed and finished in time for your return from honeymoon."
Visit their website at martinphillipsweddings.com
or ring for an appointment to visit the studio for a private consultation on 01656 771525
Martin Phillips Studio is at
32 New Road, Station Hill,
Porthcawl CF36 5DN |
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Hawkes Essentials
Men's clothing emporium Hawkes Essentials is the place of choice for superb tailoring and old-school service with a modern edge. Why choose it?
Reliable, expert service and attention to detail - essential for a great wedding!
Choice of ceremonial attire from an elegant lounge suit to formal morning wear or a black dinner suit.
Off-the-peg designs in a variety of styles to suit all builds and an alterations service to ensure that your suit fits perfectly.
Bespoke tailoring offers you a suit like no other, right down to colour of buttons, lining, detail and trim.
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PORTHCAWL
RMA Williams Designer Jewellers
RMA Williams Jewellers on Porthcawl's John Street is a destination shop for gorgeous wedding and engagement rings. This small independent jeweller is a member of the National Association of Goldsmiths and they sell an extensive range of wedding rings to suit everyone by Clogau Gold, Bien and Domino to name a few.
To make budgeting easier they offer a discount of 10% when two wedding bands are bought at the same time and also an easy payment plan option through their Savings Club.
Clogau Gold is renowned for creating some of the most beautiful engagement, wedding and eternity rings ever to emerge from Wales. The Royal family has used Welsh gold in their wedding rings for the past few generations, and you can be sure Kate Middleton will be wearing Welsh gold on her wedding day!
Combining both modern and traditional designs, Clogau Gold jewellery is expertly handcrafted from solid 18ct and 9ct golds (in yellow and rose), platinum and diamonds. Inscribed on the inside of each wedding band is the affectionate Welsh word "Cariad" (ca-ree-ad), meaning sweetheart, darling or beloved - they even craft a Russianstyle wedding ring.
Bien is a brand that creates a range of wedding rings, including Celtic designs in white or yellow gold, platinum or palladium and the Mirage Diamond Cut selection with the look of diamond but without the high price tag as well as classic plain and diamond bands, all of which can be shaped to fit an engagement ring.
Domino rings are made in the UK and they supply a great selection of classic, well-priced wedding bands and rings in plain or diamond set.
Visiting the RMA website will show you a selection of the most popular rings while a visit to the store will offer much more.
A copy of their brochures can be posted to you, so give them a call today or pop to the shop to meet the friendly team.
RMA Williams
Designer Jewellers
35 John Street
Porthcawl CF36 3AP
01656 786007
www.rmawilliams.com |
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Knife & Fork Catering
There's nothing more crowd pleasing than delicious food being served at a party or special event. And as the milder weather approaches and our thoughts turn to summer occasions and celebrations, what can be better than leaving the skilled chefs from Knife & Fork Catering to do all the hard work for you.
Maybe you're planning a wedding, a summer picnic or a garden party; whatever the reason, you can relax in the knowledge that they will take care of all your food requirements with a variety of mouth-watering menus, recipes that are full of flavour and a host of other culinary delights to tempt your taste buds and that of your guests. Using quality ingredients and from local suppliers where possible, Knife & Fork Catering will ensure that your guests leave happy, whether you are catering for 5 or 500 people!
The main thing is that they will work with you to create a range of menu ideas or offer a bespoke package to suit your theme, budget and dietary requirements.
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The Shop
This beautiful shop in Cowbridge stocks a range of homeware accessories, furniture and gifts that will appeal to anyone looking for something with style and at prices that won't offend.
If you're putting together your wedding gift list, then you will find a selection of inspiring gift ideas for your home and at reasonable prices to suit your guests' budget. You're sure to find something you love here, whether you are looking for a new armchair in vibrant fabric, an unusual piece of artwork, china mugs, distinctive standalone design pieces for your living area, photo frames, cushions or funky lamps.
50 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AH
01446 774055 |
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Cocoa & Co.
There's no better partnership than chocolate and weddings and your guests are sure to love the delicious chocolate favours from Cocoa & Co.
Owner Philippa Tuckey says that for a little bit of Welsh patriotism the mini chocolate lovespoons or rugby balls are sure to delight both men and women and retro sweets and lollipops are a cute alternative. For a truly classic theme who wouldn't love a tiny box of mixed truffles available in milk, dark and white chocolate? A special range of gluten and dairy-free chocolates are available, making them an ideal choice for all your guests.
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John Thomas
A harpist for all occasions, John studied harp in Wales and at the Conservatoire of Paris and plays a wide variety of music; light classical, folk, popular ballads, and Welsh melodies.
He is much in demand for wedding ceremonies and receptions and also plays at medieval banquets at Caldicot and Caerphilly Castles. With many satisfied clients, a typical note of praise reads,"Thank you for making our service special. Your playing set the scene beautifully." John is an experienced teacher of blade and pedal harp to Grade 8 and beyond. He also has a selection of blade harps for hire.
101 Elan Way, Caldicot NP26 4PZ
01291 421565 |
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Suzanne Jaya
Celebrate! You're going to a wedding; you might be the bride, bridesmaid, groom, mother of the bride or groom, or one of the lucky guests. You want to look your absolute very best.
Dilemma! What do you wear, and in which colour? How do you make sure you don't look the same as anyone else? Is that gown the right shade of white and does the bridal party look coordinated, considered and memorable?
Solution! Suzanne Jaya is a personal stylist and image expert. Maybe she can help you with a colour consultation or a little guidance when you go shopping.
Brittania House, Penny Lane
Cowbridge CF71 7EG
07833 780006 / 01443 229296 |
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Don't gamble... make it Elite Casino Parties!
Whatever your occasion this year, one sure way of adding a little glitz, glamour and fun is by offering guests a little more entertainment.
"Having a casino at your event is a really fun way of bringing a new dimension to your entertainement," says Elite Casino owner Maria Macarthy. "We receive tremendous feedback from both organisers and guests, and especially when they win!" Elite Casino's equipment is of the highest standard and the business is operated with the highest integrity. "I provide quality tables and all our dealers and operators are extremely well presented and polite at all times," Maria proudly claims. "I have many testimonials from satisfied customers."
So, if you'd like to bring a sense of glamour and fun to your corporate event, party or wedding, don't gamble... call Elite Casino Parties.
Elite Casino caters for:
Corporate Events
Birthdays, Anniversaries, Retirement Parties
Business Meetings, Conventions or Trade Shows
Charitable Fundraisers
School Functions or Graduation Parties
Christmas or New Year’s Eve Parties
Shower or Wedding Receptions
TV, Film and Photography Casino Set Hire
Clubs and Associations
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