WEDDINGSECTION

FASHION TIPS FOR

FESTIVALS

YOUR ‘I DO’ LISTEnjoy stress-free preparations with our essential guide

FINISHING TOUCHES� ose little things that meanso much on your special day

A PLACE IN YOUR HEARTTie the knot in a

stunning local venue

ALL DRESSED UPGorgeous gowns to suit

every blushing bride

W O N D E R F U L W E A L D E N W E D D I N G S

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-50 GROSVENOR ROAD

TUNBRIDGE WElLS • KENT

01892 513333 50 MINUTES FROM LONDON CHARING CROSS

WWW.GOBRIDAL.COM

10 Day Sale starting 20th September 2014

CALL OR E-M AIL NOW FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

REQUIREMENTS

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ALL DRESSED UPChoosing a wedding dress is one of the bride’s most thrilling tasks, but with so many designs and styles on offer, it can be difficult to know where to start. Selecting your gown is a huge emotional investment as well as a financial one, so here are our top tips for making your shopping trips a joyful experience

1Decide on your budget

and only look at dresses

that are suitably priced.

That doesn’t mean you can’t use

more expensive frocks as inspiration

for a similar, cheaper alternative, but

actually trying one on is fraught with

peril as you may fall in love with it

– then you’ll either end up blowing

the budget and buying it, or you’ll

settle for a dress that feels inferior in

comparison, which would be a

shame on your special day.

2Assess your body shape

and find out which style

suits you best. Like any

clothing, a wedding dress will only

look amazing on you if it

complements your body. Those

with an hourglass outline will look

fabulous with a close-fitting

mermaid gown, while boyish

figures can create curves with a

nipped in waist and flared skirt.

Pear-shaped ladies can benefit

from the looseness of an A-line skirt

and plus-sizes look great in

empire-line frocks that flare out

from beneath the bust. Tall brides

appear willowy and statuesque in

clean, simple lines without too

much embellishment.

3Be open-minded. Although

a flattering shape is

important, there are many

further nuances to be found and

trying on something you had never

considered before could turn out to

be a real “eureka” moment. Flicking

through bridal magazines and

celebrity wedding pictures can

provide useful inspiration.

4Choose your shopping

companions carefully. Take

someone whose taste you

trust, though beware of anyone

who has preconceived ideas of

what you should wear – mums who

have dreamed of your wedding for

decades may be guilty of this

occasionally. Try to take no more

than a couple of people along, as

too many differing opinions could

simply result in confusion.

5If you know how you want

your hair on the wedding

day, wear it in a similar

style during fittings. Similarly, if

you’d like to wear a veil or a certain

pair of shoes, take them along to see

how they look with each dress. Even

the slightest outfit change can have

a big impact on the overall look.

6Consider your venue, the

time of year and the theme,

if you have one. These

elements not only offer practical

guidance – a skimpy dress with only a

flimsy bolero will not be warm

enough for a Christmas wedding, for

example – they can also inspire you

with aesthetic ideas. Traditional styles

look great against a stately home or

church backdrop, while a beach

ceremony or less formal day will be

complemented by a more boho look.

If you’re having a rock and roll band

at the reception, why not dance the

night away in a 50s style prom dress

and full petticoat?

7Think about how the

dress ties in with other

elements of the day. If

you’ve already settled on the

colour scheme, flowers or

bridesmaids’ dresses, look for

gowns that will complement your

existing ideas, as this will help to

narrow down your choices.

8Finally, have faith in your

decision. Take your time

and don’t be rushed, but

once you’ve chosen your dress,

stop the search. Concentrate on

the remaining preparations and

just look forward to looking

fabulous on your special day. CA

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GORGEOUSGOWNSNow you’ve read about how to choose the perfect dress for your wedding day, here’s some inspiration from the new collections of top designers

This designer is renowned for her vintage

inspired, yet contemporary style that

combines timeless elegance with

modern sensibilities.

www.jennypeckham.com

JENNY PACKHAM

Harlow - Fully embellished ivory silk

chiffon gown £3,890

Noa - Ivory silk chiffon gown with crystal

embellishment £4,320

Charise - Strapless ivory silk chiffon gown

with crystal embellishment £2,740

Josephine - Snowdrop lace gown with crystal

and sequinned embellishment £4,470

Merle - Ivory short lace gown with sequinned

embellishment £3,030

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Established as T&G Bridal in New York in

1949, this company helped femininity to

re-emerge after the austerity of the Second

World War – today the designs still feature

classic style and romantic details.

www.justinalexanderbridal.com

JUSTIN ALEXANDER

Originally from Finland, Katja has quickly

established herself as one of the most

sought-after new generation couturiers in

London, attracting high profi le clientele not

only from UK but also around the world.

www.kncouture.com

KATJA NUUTINEN COUTURE

Sea Pearl - 100% silk fl uid bias cut gown with

fl ower detail on the side £2,300

Sapphire - For a different angle on traditional

white, this fl owing aqua colour gown is made

of silk satin with silk chiffon overlay £2,200

8730 - Luxe charmeuse fi t and fl are gown

with Venice lace V-neckline, cap sleeves and

hem line. The gown is fi nished with a scoop

illusion back and charmeuse covered buttons

to the end of the chapel length train £1,476

8731 - Bugle beads, crystal and pearl covered

bodice with a sweetheart neckline on a

chiffon fi t and fl are gown. The gown is

fi nished with chiffon covered buttons over

the back zipper and a chapel train £1,605

Modern romance is the inspiration for this

trendsetting brand, which creates gowns in

a variety of silhouettes, often with touches

of colour.

www.sinceritybridal.com

SINCERITY BRIDAL

3804 - Venice beaded lace over tulle ball

gown with a boat neckline and pleated tulle

cummerbund at the natural waist. The gown

is fi nished with a V-back, tulle covered

buttons to the bottom of the cummerbund

and a chapel length train £966

3801 - Embroidered beaded lace gown

featuring a sweetheart neckline and a basque

waist on a tulle A-line skirt with fl oating

beaded lace appliqués. The back of the gown

is fi nished with tulle covered buttons over the

back zipper and a chapel length train £891

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This dress by Charlie Brear has

a Voulaire lace overlay and

strapless gown. Inspired by a love

of revolutionary decades of style,

these whimsical separates can be

made to create an array of truly

unique looks, £1,979

Available at

Frou Frou Bridal Boutique

17 Crescent Road, Tunbridge

Wells, Kent TN1 2LU

01892 541 381

www.froufroubride.co.uk

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Elizabeth Stuart’s

Primrose is a modern twist

on a classic design. From

the soft fl owing skirt to

the delicate blush tone,

this gown is the epitome

of romance, £3,300

Available at

Frou Frou Bridal Boutique

17 Crescent Road, Tunbridge

Wells, Kent TN1 2LU

01892 541 381

www.froufroubride.co.uk

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Available at The Pantiles Bride

34 The Pantiles, Tunbridge

Wells, Kent TN2 5TN

01892 514 515

www.pantilesbride.com

Ian Stuart’s Parisienne is a

simple, chic A-line gown made

in luxurious silk satin featuring

stunning handmade silk roses

at the waist, £2,690

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Available at The Pantiles Bride

34 The Pantiles, Tunbridge

Wells, Kent TN2 5TN

01892 514 515

www.pantilesbride.com

Sassi Holford’s Ruby is a

sensational ball gown with tulle

skirt, fi ne lace cap sleeve bodice,

beaded abstract lace appliqué

and a slim satin belt with

beaded diamante detail, £2,380

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THE·CHAPEL

HAIRDRESSING

www. the chap e I. c o. u k

SEVENOAKS 0 1 7~/ 7S9R~9

TUNBRIDGE WELLS 0 I R9/ S49900

ISLINGTON 0207 5200 460

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THE GRAND HOTEL, EASTBOURNEWHAT MAKES YOUR VENUE STAND OUT?

Affectionately known as the ‘White Palace’ and

‘A Wedding Cake of a Hotel’, the Grand is

England’s finest five-star seaside hotel and

one of the most romantic wedding venues in

Sussex. With its beautiful seafront setting and

impressive 19th Century architecture, coupled

with elegant lounges, fabulous reception

rooms and the soaring pillars, marbled

fireplaces and glittering chandeliers of the

Great Hall, The Grand provides a magnificent

setting for truly memorable weddings.

TALK US THROUGH SOME OF YOUR

WEDDING PACKAGES

Whether you’re planning a lavish banquet for up

to 200 guests or an intimate celebration with

close family and friends, we understand that every

wedding is unique and no two celebrations are the

same. In addition to totally bespoke and

tailor-made weddings, The Grand Hotel offers a

range of packages that include everything needed

for an outstanding reception and, whatever you

choose, one of our dedicated wedding planners

will help with every aspect of the preparations.

HOW MANY WEDDINGS TAKE PLACE AT

THE GRAND?

Approximately 35 to 40 per year, but we only

take one large wedding per day.

TELL US ABOUT THE PHOTO

OPPORTUNITIES

There are magnificent floor to ceiling mirrors,

accompanied by the grandeur of the Great

Hall and marbled flooring in the front hall.

Outside, shots can be taken on the front steps,

in the Mirabelle Garden and on the Putting

Green. And, of course, just across the road you

have the waterfront!

WHAT DO YOU OFFER FOR CIVIL

PARTNERSHIPS?

The Grand Hotel is licensed for civil partnerships

and ceremonies, which, together with our choice

of superb reception rooms, creates an exclusive

venue for the wedding party.

HOW ABOUT YOUR ‘MINI MOON’

FACILITIES?

A Mini Moon can be your wedding night, the

one or two days between your wedding and

honeymoon, or a romantic getaway for those

who prefer to take a longer break in the weeks

or months after their wedding. Chilled

strawberries and Champagne await you upon

arrival and dinner and breakfast can be

ordered in your room. The Romantic package

also includes handmade chocolates, a Molton

Brown gift and rose petals scattered on your

pillow at turndown.

King Edwards Parade, Eastbourne,

East Sussex BN21 4EQ

01323 412 345

www.grandeastbourne.com

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THE ORANGERY, MAIDSTONETELL US ABOUT THE BACKGROUND OF

YOUR VENUE

The Orangery is the ultimate setting for your

special day. Set in the heart of the Garden of

England, in Kent’s county town, Maidstone, The

Orangery represents the true and natural

beauty of Kent itself. From the moment you

step into the grounds, the sheer magic will

encapsulate your dreams for that perfect day.

Nestled within nine acres of beautifully

landscaped gardens, with a tranquil lake and

tumbling waterfall, it is an exclusive-use venue.

You nurture the dream, we compose the reality.

TAKE US ON A GUIDED TOUR

At The Orangery, there are two choices for a

civil ceremony. The magnificent Garden

Room is a stunning location; five double

doors span the front façade, providing guests

with a perfect view of the beautiful Mill Barn

Garden and, more importantly, of the bridal

party as they make their momentous

entrance across the bridge. During British

summertime, weather permitting, couples are

also given the option of having their

ceremony in the beautiful Gazebo, which is

nestled within the immaculately landscaped

grounds. Both the Garden Room and the

Gazebo provide an unforgettable setting for

couples to exchange those all-important

vows. Your reception will take place in the

Orangery itself, where your guests will enjoy

a sumptuous wedding breakfast provided by

one of our designated caterers, who will work

with you to ensure that you and your guests

receive a delicious menu made from high

quality produce.

WHAT DOES IT OFFER FOR WEDDINGS?

A venue for all seasons. A professional team

of landscape gardeners is dedicated to

creating the perfect look all year through. A

beautiful range of flowers, bulbs and other

seasonal interests are carefully planned and

maintained to ensure the best results at all

times. During December, festive decorations

and a stunningly dressed Christmas tree add

that extra special sparkle. Come rain or shine,

winter or summer, the Orangery and Garden

Room offer the perfect location for both

ceremony and reception. We pride ourselves

on our personal touch, knowing that each and

every wedding is unique. Our ultimate goal is

to remove as much pressure from our couples

as possible so that they can enjoy the buildup

to the day, as well as the day itself; to ensure

they feel safe in the knowledge that we will

take care of those all-important details so that

they can just relax and enjoy every moment.

HOW ABOUT PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES?

The photographic possibilities are endless

throughout the grounds: at the lake with the

boathouse as a stunning backdrop, in front of

the tumbling waterfall, beneath an

outstanding Wellingtonia Pine or simply

relaxing on the lawns. The grounds are there

for you and your guests to enjoy, so seize the

moment and capture all those precious

memories. The Orangery truly is a

photographer’s paradise.

Turkey Court, Turkey Mill, Ashford Road,

Maidstone, Kent ME14 5PP

01622 919 919

www.theorangerymaidstone.com

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A lmost 25 years ago Douglas

Chapman discovered a

dilapidated and disused

Norman chapel some four miles up

a single track road and lost in the

North Downs of Kent. It in fact

comprised the sole remaining

building of Dode Village, which was

disbanded as a result of the Black

Death in 1349; essentially it had

remained unused since

that time.

He instantly fell in love with it and

within three days had purchased

what is now known as The Lost

Village of Dode. A seven-year

programme of repair, restoration and

conservation followed, including the

re-tiling of the roof and the

replacement of the ancient door,

which had been burned

off by vandals, together with

complete landscaping of the

two-acre grounds.

Although Douglas had no

pre-conceived ideas of how to use

Dode, a change in the law enabled

couples to be married in suitably

licensed premises shortly after the

restoration programme was

complete. The small building, which

looked exactly as it did over 900

years ago when it was built and is

constructed of flint under an oak

roof, seemed ideal for intimate

family weddings and so it proved.

Now in its 15th season, The Lost

Village of Dode offers not only a

completely unique, but a magical

and deeply spiritual setting for

weddings. Dode’s medieval interior,

lit only with candles and flares, offers

superb photo opportunities, as does

its secluded grounds surrounded

only by meadows and woodland.

A stunning stone circle, which is often

used for Hand Fastings, adds even

more mystery to this special place.

Dode was recently voted in a

National Newspaper as one of the

Best 50 Wedding Venues in the UK.

01622 734 205

www.dodevillage.com

THE LOST VILLAGE OF DODE

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SENSE OF PLACEThe venue in which you hold your wedding will set the tone for the entire day, so it’s important to choose a place that perfectly captures your vision

Whether you opt for a church or

civil ceremony, the options are

endless – but remember to

consider some key factors that will

help you make the right choice of

venue to host your big day.

1Decide what sort of

venue you’re looking for.

You’ll need to sit down

with your partner and discuss

your respective ideas. You might

find that you have differing tastes

or priorities, in which case a

compromise will need to be agreed

upon. Consider the atmosphere

you’re trying to create and what

sort of venue will best suit your

needs; have you always dreamed

of sweeping up the driveway of a

stately home, or would you like a

more rustic do in a barn or

marquee? Should it be a town or

country setting? Glamorous or

shabby chic?

2Set the budget. Discuss

with your partner how

much of your wedding

budget you’re willing to spend on

the setting. If you’re having a

secular ceremony, consider

holding the service and the

reception in the same place, as

this could potentially save you

money.

3 Location, location,

location. As well as the

general backdrop, think

about the geographical spot that

will best suit the needs of

yourselves and your guests.

Choosing a venue far from your

home may incur extra travelling

and accommodation costs for

many people attending, although

if you can negotiate a bargain

room rate or an exclusive hire

package, this might even work out

cheaper than using the hotel

around the corner. Think about

how your guests will get there and

whether it’s conveniently placed

for transport links and parking.

4 Size matters. How long

will your guest list be and

what sort of entertainment

do you intend to provide? Those

who want to party into the night

will need to ensure there’s

adequate space for a dance floor

and extra room for the evening

guests, while those who intend to

keep things intimate and low key

could save money by holding their

reception in a restaurant or

private dining room. If you can’t

afford to rent your favourite

venue’s main ballroom, there

might be a smaller space or even

a marquee option that falls within

your price bracket and size

requirements.

5 Picture perfect. Naturally,

you’ll carry the happy

memories of your wedding

day in your heart forever, but

beautiful photographs will also

provide a treasured memento. So

choose a venue that has some

suitably attractive backdrops for

those all-important snaps.

Stunning grounds are ideal, but

ensure there is an equally pretty

indoor option in case the weather

lets you down. The same goes for

alfresco ceremonies – if a garden

wedding isn’t an option on the

day, it’ll be reassuring to know

there’s a charming interior space

in which to tie the knot.

6 Compare value for

money. You might think

that a certain venue is

completely out of your reach, but

ask what extras are included in

the package. If they are willing to

take care of the catering, flowers

or decorations, this will free up

some of your budget to spend on

the venue hire.

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-A MEM6 RY Fe RYe U AND Ye UR GUESTS Te TREASURE Fe REVER Our vintage buses from the 1940's and 1 gso•s will entrance

you and your specially chosen guests. We will provide

uniformed drivers and conductors, experienced and trained to

the highest standards. These double desk buses will take 56

passengers each and reflect a lost era of travel. We operate

in London and South east England, so consider us to make !hot

special day even more special....

TO D ISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS PLEASE CALL

0772 1 335500 OR 01580 754253

LINNET HOUSE HAWKHURST KENT TN18 4AX- MAIL@OLOLONOONBUS.CO.UK

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SALOMONS ESTATETELL US ABOUT THE BACKGROUND OF

YOUR VENUE

The perfect setting for your big day

There can be few better places to celebrate

your wedding day than the magnificent

Salomons Estate, one of Kent’s most popular

wedding venues. Situated just two miles

outside the genteel spa town of Royal

Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate is a

beautiful Victorian mansion and something

of a hidden gem. Set in 70 rolling acres of

gardens, parkland and woods, yet within an

hour’s travel of Central London, it offers a

magical and romantic backdrop to your

special day.

TAKE US ON A GUIDED TOUR

Salomons Estate offers three fabulous

function rooms to choose from. Our elegant

Gold Room, which can seat up to 65 people for

your ceremony, has doors that open onto the

Terrace, where you can enjoy the breathtaking

views of the Estate. Our Drawing Room can

provide a beautiful backdrop for your wedding

breakfast. Seating up to 100 people, the room

can be set with round tables or in lines and,

with the adjoining conservatory and bar, it

provides a spacious setting for your evening

party. Finally, our grand Victorian Theatre is

ideal for large wedding parties and can host all

aspects of your big day, from the ceremony to

the evening reception. With its large stage, it

provides a generously proportioned space for

all your entertainment. Salomons Estate also

offers 47 4* AA-accredited bedrooms, all with

en suite showers, free-view TV, direct dial

telephones, Wi-Fi and tea and coffee-making

facilities.

WHAT DOES IT OFFER FOR WEDDINGS?

Whether you wish to hold your ceremony,

wedding breakfast, drinks reception or all

three at Salomons Estate, our choice of

rooms means we can offer you the right

wedding package to suit your needs. And if

you’re planning a traditional Asian Wedding,

our Victorian Theatre can provide an exciting

canvas bursting with colour and creativity,

decorated to your taste. Our theatre is the

ideal place to host a Mandap and evening

entertainment, while our recommended

Asian Wedding caterers will provide mouth-

watering food for your special day. Here at

Salomons Estate we are passionate about

good food and carefully pick our fresh

produce and outside caterers to ensure we

provide you with food and drink of the

highest quality. We understand how difficult it

is to organise a menu for a number of

different people with different tastes, which is

why we offer such a wide range of choices.

HOW ABOUT PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES?

Salomons Estate is at the heart of England’s

garden and offers a stunningly picturesque

setting for your big day. Come summer or

winter, our views are outstanding and, with

full access to the grounds, offer perfect

photo opportunities.

Broomhill Road, Southborough,

Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TG

01892 515 152

www.salomons-estate.com/weddings

reservations@salomons-estate.com

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ounlams Country House

Mountains Country House Wedding & Event Open Day, Sunday 28th September 2014 1 Oam-3pm

Weddings and ceremonies at Mountains Mountains is a Grade 11 listed country house surrounded by 26 acres of historic parkland and steeped in history with its magnificent redwood and ancient oak trees. The beautiful Victorian house is full of

vintage charm of bygone years and is the perfect setting for the drinks reception and ceremony as well as for smaller weddings.

The permanent luxurious marquee can accommodate wedding receptions for up to 200 guests. The great advantage of having your wedding reception in the marquee is that the bar, dance floor and light,

ambient dining area are contained in one space, thus ensuring that your guests stay together at all times for a great party in the evening. We have created

a bespoke package which includes everything you need for a perfect wedding reception. Further details are available on our website.

For more information or to make an appointment to view, please contact us: T. 01732 832222 E. enquiries@mountainsevents.co.uk

Noble Tree Road, Hildenborough, Kent, TN11 8ND

www.mountainscountryhouse.co.uk

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Mountains Country House is

a breathtaking venue that

delivers a wedding celebration to

remember in the most romantic country

setting. As you make your way down the

sweeping driveway, you will be greeted with

the view of the impressive Grade II listed

country house. Mountains offers a beautiful

vintage setting for weddings and is a

photographer’s paradise with so many

beautiful areas to photograph, including the

house, grounds and formidable mature

Redwood trees. Mountains offers a flexible

choice for your weddings.

Smaller wedding receptions can be held in

the main house where the oak panelled

hallway is the perfect setting for receiving

guests before enjoying pre-reception drinks

in the Clarke Somers room, along with the

attractive conservatory and sun catching

terrace. You could marry in the open air

under the attractive oak framed gazebo; this

area can accommodate up to 120 guests. Or

you may be suited to the Clarke Somers room

with its incredible Grade II listed dresser,

which can accommodate up to 80 guests for

a smaller, more intimate ceremony.

The permanent marquee at Mountains is a

fully-lined, all-weather luxurious marquee. It

is ideal for a classic summer or

winter wedding. Partitioning inside the

marquee makes the internal space suitable

for both smaller and larger parties of up to

240 guests for a sit-down reception. The

marquee is complete with a carpeted wooden

floor, bar, toilets and dance area. If you have a

vision in mind, then the venue is perfect for

its flexibility and approachable ethos.

Mountains Country House offers a personal

bespoke service and complete exclusivity.

The team of registrars and celebrants who

visit Mountains regularly ensure that the

ceremony is both beautifully staged and

personal to you. Many guests often comment

on this aspect and with the ease and

command that the registrar portrays, you are

guaranteed a very moving marriage

ceremony.

If you would like to find out more, please

speak to one of our Event Managers to

discuss your requirements.

Noble Tree Road, Hildenborough,

Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8ND

01732 832 222

www.mountainscountryhouse.co.uk

enquiries@mountainsevents.co.uk

MOUNTAINS COUNTRY HOUSE

magnificent th Century rade listed mansion set in stunning parkland in ildenborough, ent

“The permanent marquee at Mountains is a fully-lined, all-weather luxurious marquee. It is ideal for a classic summer or winter wedding”

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-SYLV I A'S I< I TCH EN

For unique, elegant and delicious cakes

designed and created with love

and care by Liz Chatfield.

With a professional, friendly and

personal service throughout, Liz always ensures

great attention to quality and detail.

Covering the South East, contact

Liz Chat field on 07816 766146

liz@sylviaskitchen.co.uk

www.sylviaskitchen.co.uk IJ tl Jonathan Ball Wedd:iing Photography www.jonathanballweddingphotography.com 077 42636185

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The ueen's

Inn EAT • DRINK • SLEEP

01580 754233 FOR RESERVATIONS

The Queen Is Inn welcomes you for. I I

Breakfast: 9-1 Oam everyday

Lunch: 12-2.30pm Monday-Saturday

Dinner: 6-9.30pm Monday-Thursday & until 9 .45pm Friday & Saturday

Sunday Lunch: 12-4pm

~ Private dining

Overnight accommodation Wedding receptions

Private parties or events Conference bookings

Please call 01580 754233 for more information or to make a booking. Or book on line www. thequeensinnhawkhurst.co.uk or

e-mail info@queensinn.co.uk

Don't forget to check our website for regular updates & special offers or email to become a friend of The Queen's

and be kept informed of all special offers and events.

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FINISHINGTOUCHES

Inspiration for those fine details that will make your wedding day even more special

CAKE DESIGN BY JOANNA CLARKEJoanna Clarke started as a Pastry Chef apprentice in a prestigious restaurant.

Moving up through the roles to Head Pastry Chef, Joanna remained in award

winning restaurants, acquiring numerous qualifications and a wide range of

skills. With this knowledge came a passion

for cakes and a natural progression

towards advanced sugar work. At Cake

Design by Joanna Clarke we are

committed to producing the finest quality,

unique design pieces for every bride on

her wedding day.

07983 735 085

cakedesignbyjoannaclarke@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/

cakedesignbyjoannaclarke

Website coming soon

SYLVIA’S KITCHENUnique, elegant and delicious wedding cakes designed and created

with love and care by Liz Chatfield. With a professional, friendly

and personal service throughout, Liz always ensures great

attention to quality and detail. All

floral decorations are carefully

handcrafted. Celebration cakes should

not only look fabulous, they should

taste fabulous too! Liz uses the best

ingredients available so that whatever

flavour and filling you choose will be

fresh and moist. Special dietary

requirements can be catered for.

07816 766 146

liz@sylviaskitchen.co.uk

www.sylviaskitchen.co.uk

JONATHAN BALL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHYA stolen moment away from their guests as dusk falls...

The spontaneous nature of my work results in natural

photographs with a strong narrative.

My aim is to capture the personality

and emotion of the day – the story.

The quiet moments of

anticipation as the day begins, right

through to the celebratory dancing

of family and friends.

07742 636 185

www.jonathanballweddingphotography.com

CHAIR COVER CHICChair Cover Chic provides a complete chair dressing service

with a wide range of sashes available in organza, silk, satin and

the very popular lace and hessian for the vintage/ antique

themed weddings.

As well as the classic white linen chair coverswe also have

elegant ivory and

dramatic midnight black.

Also available to hire are

tall table centre

candelabra in silver and

vintage style cream

candelabra.

01342 824 180

www.chaircoverchic.co.uk

LINDEN CAKES OF MAYFIELDZoe Linden specialises in

making beautiful couture

cakes by using the very

best ingredients and

liaising closely with

couples for their

inspiration.

07787 523 969

www.lindencakesofmayfield.com

THE ORIGINAL POP UP FESTIVAL COMPANYThe Original Pop Up Festival Company brings all

that is wonderful and unique from the festival

world to your wedding. We can pop up in your

garden or we can find you your perfect site. From

giant yurts to ferris wheels, street food to circus acts

and everything in

between, we make your

biggest day a truly

memorable one. Please

get in touch to see how

we can help.

0800 083 8368

www.popup-festival.co.uk

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- I

• '

HEVER_C.ASfLE &..GARPEITS

~ 11n• childhood home of Anne Rnleyn

• Exclusive hire of The Astor Wing for up to 64 people • Guthrie Pavilion for up to 200 people

• Licensed to conduct civil ceremonies and partnerships • Private lawn for marquee weddings • Japanese Tea House Folly for romantic proposals • 19 luxury bedrooms

To arrange a visit, have an informal chat or request our wedding brochure please call our wedding co-ordinator on 01732 861800 or email weddings@hevercastle.co.uk

Visit our wehsite for more information

H EVER._CAStLE. CO. V I(_

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 127

N estled in the beautiful Kentish

countryside is one of the county’s

newest and leading florists, The

Floral Workshop. Having started up their

own business just over a year ago, Lucie and

Charlotte have gone from strength to

strength. The talented duo pride themselves

on their design skills and their ability to

know exactly what their client wants; it’s no

wonder they are now approved suppliers at

many local wedding venues. Their eagerness

to design and create stunning displays is

obvious, as is their passion for the job and,

of course, working with flowers.

With an abundance of knowledge, Lucie

and Charlotte will bring your floral fantasies

to life. From the moment you first meet with

them until the big day arrives, they are

always on hand to advise and guide you.

Whether you dream of exotic orchids or a

woodland wedding with just picked posies,

you will not be disappointed with the style

and quality that The Floral Workshop are

becoming renowned for. They also carry an

amazing variety of stock, which they hire

out, so if it’s crystal candelabra, bay trees or

even chair covers, you can be assured The

Floral Workshop will look after you.

Not ones to rest on their laurels and

always looking for something new to offer

their clients, Lucie and Charlotte are also

offering floral workshops, so if you want to

learn a new skill or just fancy the idea of

getting creative with flowers for the day, this

is a must for you. A pumpkin Halloween

themed workshop is next on the agenda,

which will see you create an amazing floral

display from a pumpkin, while enjoying a cup

of tea in the beautiful surroundings of

Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells. The

workshops are held in the estate’s stunning

conservatory, so why not give it a go? The

Christmas workshops are also sure to be a

huge success.

Lucie and Charlotte offer their services

for bespoke, tailor-made workshops, so

maybe a hen party with an afternoon

making buttonholes and posies or a

teambuilding corporate workshop making

hand tied bouquets? The possibilities are

endless.

Charlotte and Lucie will also be exhibiting

at the Fabulous Wedding Fayre at Salomons

Estate on September 7 and look forward to

seeing you there. The first 25 brides that

come and visit will receive a free gift!

For more information on weddings or to

book a workshop please see their website

www.floralworkshop.org.uk or contact

sales@floralworkshop.org.uk

Unite 3 Bowens Farm, Poundsbridge

Lane, Penshurst, Kent TN11 8AJ

Charlotte: 07792 950 355

Lucie: 07714 994 057

THE FLORAL WORKSHOP

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-Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel

8~~~ ~6econw~

The Mercure Tunbridge Wells is a charming Oast House licensed for civil ceremonies for a small and intimate wedding or a large reception. Set in the Weald of Kent, on the outskirts of Tunbridge Wells & village of Pembury, our flexible wedding packages allow for your day to be tailored to suit your needs. To ensure your dreams become reality, we are dedicated to making your special day perfect and as individual as you are. Whether you are planning a Civil Ceremony, Traditional Church Service or Civil Partnership, we recognise that every wedding is different. We are completely flexible and happy to discuss your specific requirements to ensure

that our beautiful hotel provides imagination, flair and the perfect setting.

t. 07921820094

Contact Your Wedding Coordinator on 0844 815 9074 For further information email:

csales.mercuretunbridgewells@jupiterhotels.co.uk

e. samanthayardley@googlemail. eo m w. www.samyardleyphotography.co. uk

-samyardley

photography

Relaxed and natural documentary Wedding photographer, based in Tun bridge Wells.

W E D D I N G S SO

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ASHDOWN PARK HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUBWHAT MAKES YOUR VENUE

STAND OUT?

Ashdown Park is a truly magical and

romantic location. Our magnificent

converted Chapel is one of the most unique

and impressive wedding venues in Sussex,

complete with its original organ, wedding

bells and vaulted ceiling, as well as

spectacular stained glass windows,

with their 30 shades of blue designed by

famous 19th Century Irish stained glass

artist, Harry Clarke. Our beautiful licensed

Summer House is situated on the lawns

overlooking the lake and is a wonderfully

unique venue for your ceremony or drinks

reception. On the day, Ashdown Park’s

stunning setting offers a wealth of

inspirational backdrops for photographs,

including the lake with its cascading

fountain and our secluded secret garden.

TALK US THROUGH SOME OF YOUR

WEDDING PACKAGES

We offer endless possibilities with regards to

creating your perfect wedding day. Each

package can be changed to meet your needs

as we understand fully that no two weddings

are the same. Our two main packages are

Gold and Platinum. These include everything

you can think of for a truly unforgettable

wedding day, including room hire for the

whole day, Toast Master, fresh floral

arrangements, drinks reception, three-course

wedding breakfast, wine, Champagne and

stationary, as well as a master suite and two

junior suites for the wedding night and a

menu tasting for the couple prior to the

wedding. Sprinkled with a little extra stardust,

our Platinum package includes a few extras

on top of the Gold package. For smaller

weddings we offer an Intimate wedding

package, which is equally as special with a

more intimate yet no less luxurious wedding.

We are very flexible and are more than happy

to change elements of packages to suit the

couple’s needs.

WHAT DO YOU OFFER FOR CIVIL

PARTNERSHIPS?

Ashdown Park is licensed for civil ceremonies

and partnerships and our superb rooms

provide a wonderful atmosphere, helping to

create a really meaningful experience.

Whether you’re looking for somewhere grand

or more informal, our choice of rooms and

suites cater for all tastes. Our Summer House

also offers civil ceremonies if you’re looking

for an outdoor service with the stunning

backdrop of our manicured lawns and lakes.

HOW ABOUT YOUR ‘MINI MOON’

FACILITIES?

We have 106 beautifully appointed rooms and

suites, including spacious master suites with

four poster and king-size beds, separate

lounges and gorgeous views, which provide a

luxurious retreat for wedding couples. A Mini

Moon could be your wedding night, the one or

two days between your wedding and

honeymoon, a short honeymoon in itself or a

romantic getaway for those who prefer to take

a longer break in the weeks or months after

their wedding. Our romantic packages include

fresh rose petals scattered on your bed on

arrival, afternoon tea and an in-room treatment

tray for you and your partner to enjoy before a

candlelit dinner and Champagne breakfast in

bed the following morning.

Wych Cross, Nr Forest Row,

East Sussex RH18 5JR

01342 824 988

www.ashdownpark.com

reservations@ashdownpark.com

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Chiddingstone Castle is a hidden

gem, nestled in the heart of the

rolling Kent Weald and set

within 35 acres of beautiful

grounds, including a lake, rose garden and

woodland. Situated in the National Trust

village of Chiddingstone, this stunning

historic house is the perfect fairytale setting

for your dream wedding. The Castle can be

exclusively yours for the day of your

marriage celebrations and offers a selection

of rooms and locations in which to hold the

most romantic wedding.

The magnificent galleried Great Hall is a

grand room in which to hold your civil

ceremony and wedding breakfast, seating up

to 80 for dining. The White Rose Drawing

Room is a beautiful, more intimate room for

smaller ceremonies. Alternatively, the

Castle’s own marquee can be sited on the

South Lawn or by the North Door to give

couples the freedom to invite up to 120

guests for the full day, from ceremony

through to evening reception.

The Victorian Orangery is an amazing

outdoor space that effortlessly combines

ancient splendour with contemporary

architecture. Also licensed for civil ceremonies,

this outstanding Grade II listed building

perfectly complements our splendid grounds.

The Castle’s Weddings Co-ordinator and

her team offer flexibility and attention to

detail, ensuring that every wedding is unique.

The Castle does not charge corkage on your

own choice of wines and our three excellent

caterers provide an unparalleled bespoke

service for every occasion to match every

budget.

For further information please

contact Natalie Wilkins, Weddings

Co-ordinator, on 01892 872 744,

weddings@chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

or visit www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

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34 THE PANTILES TUN BRIDGE WELLS • KENT

01892 514515 WWW.PANTILESBRIDE.COM

SAMPLE SALE 20 September to 4 October

DESIGNER DAYS Sassi Holford 13 September -

meet the designer

Jenny Packham 10 & 11 October

Suzanne Neville 21 November ­

meet the designer

J I BEST BRIDAL RETA LLER

ENGLAND

133 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4

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-Maaic at Weddinas

Ifs Your maeical day, so whY not add SParkle and amazement with some maeic from Stuart and

Maeic at Weddines

Durin2 the Photo2raPhs With the spotlight on you, the happy couple, a lot of your guests are standing _: f1 around waiting. This is the perfect time for -close-up magic right in front of their eyes.

Durin2 the meal This is the time for some amazing table magic. At the top table you'll hear your guests' laughter and applause as the magician works his magic around the room.

Durin2 the recePtion Help kick start the evening festivities with some impressive mix 'n mingle close-up magic.

Get in touch and find out how we can briM a little maeic to Your weddiM

0203 728 8729 0776 265 9795 stuart@magicatwe ddings.co.uk

Ma3lc at Weddings I• part of the Ma3lclanary ensemble

BRI DA L & O CC A S I O N WEAR

Brid•l O<>i~"'' by

Sincerity. Essense. Agnes. Stella York. Benjamin Roberts

Mother of the bride collections by

Condici. John C harles. Ann Balon. Mascara.

I: atelier

Loyal Parade, Mill Rise, \Vestdene, Brighton

East Sussex Bnl 5gg

Ju>< off A23/ A27 free C':t. )y parking

01273 505766 info@blessingsbridal.co.uk

www.blessingsbridal.co.uk www.occasionsbyblessings.co.uk

J Sincerity Designer Weekend

S:~rurday 22nd & Sunday 23rd M,trch

~ ' ,

by appointment

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SLMPLY UNFORGETABLE

~D Your Wedding is a unique occasion. At London Golf Club we know how important it is to host

this special day in the ideal setting. To speak to our wedding coordinator and request a brochure please call 01474 875 720 or email weddings@londongolf.co.uk

W E D D I N G S SO

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LONDON GOLF CLUB

A ll couples want the assurance that

their wedding day will be a relaxed

and enjoyable one – a guarantee

that London Golf Club can proudly offer. The

Club takes care of every last detail so that

the bride and groom can enjoy their day and

celebrate their union in stress-free style.

From Champagne receptions and a Toast

Master to bespoke menus, the attentive staff

will happily help you plan the day, creating

the perfect start to your married life.

Attention to detail and style go hand in

hand at London Golf Club. From the moment

you enter the gates and make your way

down the winding driveway, you will sense

the unique ambiance. Situated in 700 acres

of natural beauty in the North Downs, the

Club is not only picturesque, but private.

A Clubhouse for all seasons awaits you. In

the summer months, reception drinks and

canapés can be served outside on the upper

terrace or in the Long Bar. Both offer

breathtaking views over two championship

golf courses and a stunning backdrop for

your memorable wedding photographs.

If you’re opting for a winter wedding,

then the oak-panelled Great Hall offers

a warm alternative with its roaring fire.

Imposing staircases and feature fireplaces

also provide the perfect settings for

interior photos.

London Golf Club is licensed for civil

marriage and civil partnership ceremonies,

which conveniently allows you to hold all

aspects of your day under one roof. Our

experienced Wedding Co-ordinator will

process your ceremony booking directly

with the Registrar office, allowing you to

concentrate on other details.

Your wedding breakfast will be served

in our spectacular Banqueting Room,

characterised by its stunning views

overlooking the golf courses and elegant

décor. There is capacity to seat up to 132

guests for a sit-down meal and 270 for the

evening reception. Bathed in natural light,

this room also includes air conditioning,

access to the outside terrace, a grand

marble fireplace and wooden dance floor.

Superb menus are available to choose from

and the flexible approach of the head chef

and his team allows you to tailor the

existing menu.

For more information, to request a

brochure or if you have any questions

regarding our wedding packages, please

do not hesitate to contact the Wedding

Co-ordinator, who will be happy to arrange a

show around. We look forward to being able

to assist you and to welcoming you to the

luxury and charm of the London Golf Club.

Please contact the London Golf Club

Wedding Co-ordinator on 01474 875 720,

email weddings@londongolf.co.uk

or visit www.londongolf.co.uk

Stansted Lane, Ash, Nr Brands Hatch,

Kent TN15 7EH

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THE MANSION IS NESTLED IN 00 AC R ' .. , ., A J AND

SURROUNDED BY THE WORLD RENOWNED " IF YOU ARE

SEEKING TO ADD A UNIQ!JE ELEMENT TO YOUR SPECIAL DAY, WHY NOT INCLUDE A SAFARI?

A DV E R TO R I A L SO

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 137

TELL US ABOUT THE BACKGROUND OF

YOUR VENUE

Nestled in the heart of Port Lympne Reserve in

Kent, the Port Lympne Mansion Hotel is one of

Kent’s most stunning wedding venues. The

Mansion offers brides and grooms the chance to

have their civil or same sex wedding their way, in

their exclusive mansion surrounded by beautiful

landscaped gardens and breathtaking views. The

recent stunning renovation of the Mansion has

transformed it into a lavish boutique hotel,

returning this unique and elegant Edwardian

building to its original purpose – luxurious

relaxation, fine dining and accommodation. The

hotel package includes a delicious full English or

continental breakfast.

TAKE US ON A GUIDED TOUR

THE REX WHISTLER HOTEL ROOM

Central to the Mansion, the Rex Whistler Room is

located above the entrance with charming views

across the unique ‘hippo’ water feature. The

room has a beautiful blue and yellow colour

scheme, with original built-in wardrobes and en

suite bathroom, providing a comfortable and

tranquil retreat. The room also features a

king-size sleigh bed, two relaxing chairs, an

occasional table and television.

THE CHAPLIN BRIDAL SUITE

Indulge in a stay in this romantic bridal suite, with

a private sitting room, original luxurious marble

bathroom and king-size bed. With a colour

scheme to complement the indulgent bathroom

and views of the sunrise, couples will adore this

beautiful suite on the night of their wedding.

THE SIR HERBERT BAKER HOTEL ROOM

This beautiful twin bedroom affords stunning

views across the South Terrace and the Romney

Marsh out to the English Channel. You can relax

and unwind with your own en suite bathroom

and two single sleigh beds. Features include an

original 1920s ceiling in the lavishly styled room.

THE SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL HOTEL ROOM

With a colour scheme inspired by the vibrancy of

the southern terrace during the summer, the Sir

Winston Churchill Room enjoys views across the

gardens and grand pond with its high cascading

fountain. Enjoy the added luxury of a king-size

bed and en suite bathroom.

THE TE LAWRENCE HOTEL ROOM

Located on the west side of the Mansion, this

room offers a king-size bed and enjoys the last of

the evening sun. With a colour scheme inspired

by the marble bathroom and the evening

autumnal light, the room overlooks the famous

Lime Tree Avenue, Trojan Steps and West

Terrace. No matter what the weather or time of

year, the view from this room is fabulous.

THE SIR PHILIP SASSOON BRIDAL SUITE

The most luxurious of the bridal suites enjoys

stunning views all year round of the famous Lime

Tree Avenue, Trojan Steps and West Terrace.

Indulge in beautiful sunsets and the comfort of a

four-poster bed, with a private bathroom and

your very own dressing room. The exclusiveness,

along with fantastic views, promises to create

memories that last a lifetime, against the

spectacular backdrop of Port Lympne Wild

Animal Reserve.

WHAT DOES IT OFFER FOR WEDDINGS?

During the summer, weather permitting, you can

say your vows on the romantic, Italian style

Western Terrace and enjoy a canapé reception

on the Iceberg Terrace with views of the famous

Lime Tree Avenue and Trojan Steps.

Alternatively, in the winter months, ceremonies

can be conducted in one of the lavishly

decorated ground floor rooms of the Mansion.

The Aspinall Suite adjoining the Mansion offers

the perfect venue for eating, drinking and dining

after the ceremony, no matter what the weather

holds in store.

Aldington Road, Lympne,

Hythe, Kent CT21 4PD

0844 842 4647

www.aspinallfoundation.org

PORT LYMPNE MANSION HOTEL

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138 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4

SO A DV E R TO R I A L

THE JEWEL IN THE CROWNSWAG Jewellers have added another prestigious store to their ever-growing empire

with the acquisition of Burrells in Tunbridge Wells. We sit down with Edward and Tom Ferris, who oversee the family business, to discuss their new venture

and find out what the future holds

TELL US ABOUT THE BACKGROUND OF

SWAG JEWELLERS

Edward: Our father, Bill Ferris, started SWAG

in 1974. He was a pilot for British Airways at

the time, but his dream was to own his own

business. He opened our first shop in Kingston

during the miners’ strike, despite restrictions

on electricity use limiting businesses to a

three-day working week!

Tom: Bill always wanted to give his customers

something a little bit different that you

couldn’t find in the large chain-owned

jewellery shops. It was always his vision to

have beautiful shops with expert staff who

were as passionate about jewellery as he was.

Edward: He turned 70 this year and is still

involved, especially in the buying, but a few

years ago we took on the running of the

family business. Our sister Lucy also works

with us, along with my wife, our aunt, our

cousin… We’re proud to be a family business

and determined to make our generation’s

contribution a significant one.

HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH

BURRELLS?

Edward: SWAG and Burrells have had a

relationship for a long time. We first met in

1996 when Bill bought another of Richard

Burrell’s shops – SWAG Bromley used to be a

Burrells store.

Tom: We’d admired Mr Burrell’s Tunbridge

Wells shop for a while and when he announced

that he was looking to retire, we were first in

the queue. It’s an extremely high quality family

jewellery business with an impressive pedigree

– Mr Burrell has been in the business for over

50 years. Bringing Burrells of Tunbridge Wells

into our portfolio brings us further into the

world of luxury watches and introduced us to a

wonderful new area outside of London.

WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO TUNBRIDGE

WELLS?

Edward: It’s an exquisite town. There’s

a wealth of history, but it’s not a sleepy

backwater – it’s alive and vibrant and, in

addition to its fascinating heritage, offers the

people who live and visit here a very high

quality retail experience. A sophisticated

population is always attractive to a fine

jewellery establishment.

ARE THERE MANY SIMILARITIES BETWEEN

SWAG AND BURRELLS – DO YOU SHARE THE

SAME VISION?

Tom: We have had a lot of similar experiences

with Richard Burrell over the years – running

a family business is a special thing in these

days where most towns have few independent

retailers. We both prioritise expert service

and bringing a luxury shopping experience to

customers, enriched with that genuine family

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 139

A DV E R TO R I A L SO

touch that is so difficult to emulate.

TALK US THROUGH SOME OF THE BRANDS

AND PRODUCTS CUSTOMERS CAN EXPECT

Edward: SWAG’s jewellery buyers have

contacts with some very gifted designers, so

do look out for stunning additions to the fine

jewellery offering in the shop. Our diamond

buyer is a qualified diamond grader and will

be personally putting together a collection

exclusively for Burrells. We’ll also be bringing

couture diamond brand Hearts On Fire – a

range featuring the world’s most perfectly

cut diamonds, which has been wonderfully

successful in our SWAG stores.

Tom: SWAG’s pricing policy differs slightly

from that of Burrells, so customers can expect

a considerable reduction in prices across the

board on jewellery and rings.

HAVING GROWN AS A FAMILY BUSINESS,

HOW HAS SWAG CHANGED AND DEVELOPED

OVER THE YEARS?

Edward: Our first shop, in Kingston, was tiny

and fitted out on a shoestring – our father

made the cabinets himself in his uncle’s

workshop. In the beginning we sold costume

jewellery and cuddly toys; Bill would buy

stock at the market and price it at the kitchen

table on Sunday night to sell in the shop the

following week. Soon we graduated to selling

silver, before slowly moving into fine jewellery

and becoming diamond specialists. In the

ensuing years we eventually expanded to six

shops in the greater London area – we have

shops in Kingston, Staines, Croydon, Bromley,

Bluewater and Watford.

Tom: In 2009 we became a franchisee of

Pandora and now operate 17 Pandora concept

stores around the UK, in addition to our SWAG

fine jewellery stores.

SWAG TURNS 40 THIS YEAR – HOW WILL

YOU BE CELEBRATING?

Edward: With a big party! We’re also producing

a special commemorative magazine, but the

main focus of the celebrations will be a star-

studded charity ball in aid of Shooting Star

Chase, a children’s hospice (tickets are still

available – see our website for details).

BURRELLS HAS PREVIOUSLY BEEN A

PROMINENT BUSINESS IN THE TOWN – HOW

HAVE YOU FOUND TAKING OVER THE FAMILY

NAME OF SUCH AN ESTABLISHED BRAND?

Tom: We understand how important it is to

pay tribute to and continue the work of a

respected local business. The most crucial part

of this enterprise has been to keep talking to

the people who work at Burrells – they know

the business, its customers, its ethos. There’s

considerable responsibility associated with

taking over a shop like Burrells and we intend

to honour that.

WILL YOU BE RETAINING THE ORIGINAL

IDENTITY OF BURRELLS OR BRINGING IT IN

LINE WITH THE EXISTING SWAG BRANDING?

Edward: We’ll be keeping much of the original

Burrells branding, and of course the store

will keep its name. Most of the changes we

are making will be behind the scenes, but

customers should keep a look out for new

collections, updated displays and our industry-

leading SWAG diamond guarantees.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD

FOR BURRELLS UNDER THIS NEW

ARRANGEMENT – ARE THERE ANY PLANS

TO EXPAND?

Tom: No plans at present, but we’re never

ones to pass up an opportunity! We’d love to

open more Burrells stores. Our first priority

will be the existing shop, but I think the

Burrells brand is a strong one, and with the

SWAG engine beneath it, the future holds

great things.

Burrells

210 Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells,

Kent TN1 2SS

01892 618 618.

www.burrellsjewellers.co.uk

www.swaguk.co.uk

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