Mark Owen finally names the date!
Mark Owen to wed Emma Ferguson in winter wedding
Take That’s Mark Owen has finally set the date he will wed his long-term partner and mother of his children, Emma Ferguson. The couple are due to tie the knot in a winter wedding sometime during November. Details surrounding the forthcoming nuptials are being closely guarded however some details have been leaked.
Wedding guests reportedly received save the date cards last week, however the chosen venue was missing from the information. Adding to the suspense, the guests have been asked to meet at a certain pick-up point from which they’ll be whisked away to the secret location. The Sun has reported that the couple have chosen to host their wedding at a Castle in the Scottish Highlands.
The modest pair have turned down lucrative magazine deals in a bid to keep their special occasion a private affair. Only 50 guests have been invited including all of Mark’s Take That band mates and even Robbie Williams is rumoured to have received an invite.
The wedding will top off what has been a fantastic few years for Mark. Since proposing to Emma in 2006 the couple have had two children, 3-year-old Elwood and 9-month-old Willow-Rose. Take That have also enjoyed phenomenal success since reforming gaining number one selling albums and playing to thousands of screaming fans as part of a nationwide tour. However Mark won’t be calling on his band mates to provide the entertainment on his big day; he’s ensured Howard, Gary and Jason that they have “the night off” so they’ll be free to enjoy themselves.
Andrea Corr ties the knot with billionaire
Andrea Corr, all smiles after tying the knot with billionaire Brett Desmond
Andrea Corr wed her billionaire fiancé in a star studded ceremony last Friday. The wedding took place at a beautiful hilltop church in Miltown, Malbay in Co. Clare overlooking the sea. Hundreds of people lined the streets as the bride kept the groom and her A-list guests waiting for over 30 minutes before making her entrance.
The 36 year-old lead singer of 90’s chart topping band, The Corrs, has been dating Brett Desmond for two years. The smitten stockbroker proposed to Andrea last Christmas whilst holidaying in Barbados, her engagement rings is rumoured to be worth over £60,000. Andrea’s new husband comes from a very wealthy and influential background. Brett’s father is one of Ireland’s most successful businessmen and previously owned London City Airport and currently owns a large of share Celtic F.C. as well as the 5 star Sandy Lane Hotel in Barbados which is where, incidentally, Bret went down on one knee.
The Corr front woman was all smiles when she arrived at the church and waved enthusiastically at the waiting crowds. Wearing a customised Vera Wang gown the miniature singer grabbed a few extra inches courtesy of a pair of cream platform shoes. Her two sisters and Corr band mates took on the role of bridesmaids. The pair looked elegant in full length soft lilac dresses. The bridal party all carried discreet bouquets filled with delicate white blooms.
The biggest talking point of the occasion had to be the dazzling A-list guests who were in attendance. Bono caused quite a stir when you roared up in an Italian Maserati sports car which needed to be guarded by four members of security. Bono’s band, U2 were also rumoured to be lined up to play at the reception. Comedian Patrick Kielty and Scottish football manger Gordon Strachan helped make up the 400 strong guest list.
Bride bags £700 dress for 99p on EBay
The new Mrs Mapletoft with her 99p wedding dress
Bride-to-be Natalie Bellamy made the mistake of falling in love with a £700 dress in her local wedding shop. Although it was beyond doubt, her dream dress, it was also way beyond her budget.
Undeterred in her quest to have the perfect wedding dress, the inventive 30-year old from Somerset turned to EBay to seek out an affordable alternative, and she certainly succeeded. After coming across a wedding tailoring service in Hong Kong and finding a near identical dress, Natalie sent her measurements to the overseas company who set to work on creating her dream dress on the cheap.
After just three weeks, the dress arrived. The overall price of the dress did rise to £87 after adding in the cost of shipping and alterations, but was still an absolute bargain. It also meant the bride saved herself a whopping £613 by opting for the EBay dress as opposed to the original gown from the local shop. The new Mrs Mapletoft said her husband said she looked “absolutely gorgeous” as she walked up the aisle, not bad for a 99p frock.
The mother-of-two revealed she did have her doubts over the scheme to begin with, “I didn’t know what to expect but it fitted perfectly and all the sequins had been hand-sewn. The quality was amazing. My friends couldn’t believe it only cost 99p, they all said I looked stunning.”
Following the success of her EBay dress, the frugal bride also utilised the online site to source other wedding articles such as invitations and decorations. They couple estimated they made an overall saving of £6,000 by shopping around and sniffing out a few bargains on the website.
What to wear to a wedding
Exactly what you choose to wear to a wedding is of course a very personal decision, however here are a few tips to bear in mind.
• Don’t wear white – this is reserved for the bride only which brings us onto our next point
• Don’t upstage the bride – Nothing too flashy or flesh baring, remember you may be expected to attend a church service and mingle with elderly relatives; boob tubes and miniskirts don’t cut it in either situation.
• Keep handbags small filled only with the necessities. Remember you will be carrying it around all day, a heavy handbag dragging you down may impinge upon your ability to sip champagne and nibble canapés which is never a good thing.
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If you’re attending a country wedding during the warmer months, the likelihood is you’ll have drinks outdoors, in which case you should keep heels to a minimum. Avoid mud pronged stilettos and stick to small kitten heels or even flats. It’s worth taking along a pair of glamorous flip flops for dancing later, by this stage no one will notice and you’ll be able to dance the night away instead of staggering home in pain.
• City weddings tend to be more formal. A key trend this year is the trouser suit with wide leg trousers of palazzo pants, team with a pair if killer heels and silk camisole and you’ve got yourself one slick little number.
• Avoid black or too many sequins at the day ceremony, especially if it’s a summer wedding. However black and sequins are perfectly acceptable for the evening party.
• Ditch the pashmina. Not many people can wear one convincingly and instead end up looking more like Old Mother Hubbard shivering in the corner. Instead opt for a cute cardigan or lightweight jacket or even a ¾ sleeve vintage tea-dress for a kooky Sienne Miller look.
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Weddings are a celebration so embrace the ethos of the day by adding a flash of bright colour to your outfit. If you’re brave go all out and don a shocking fuchsia dress, if you’re more of a shrinking violet add a splash of colour with an attention grabbing corsage or bright shoes or handbag.
• Avoid complicated outfits. Forget the corset which takes half an hour to fit, you need something you can slip on quickly and feel comfortable in all day as weddings are often very lengthy affairs. If you’re travelling from afar and get delayed on your way to the wedding, you may need to do a quick change at the hotel or even in the back of the car so ensure you choose an outfit you can throw on easily.
Kate Middleton and Prince William attend friend’s wedding in London
Prince Willam and Kate Middleton mingle with the other guests at a friend's wedding last week
Kate Middleton looked every inch the princess-in-waiting when she accompanied her royal boyfriend to a friend’s wedding last week. Dressed in an elegant cornflower blue tailored skirt suit with matching hat, the 27 year old beauty looked relaxed as she chatted with the other guests. Prince William, along with his brother Harry, were ushers at the ceremony which took place at the Guards Chapel near Buckingham Palace.
The high profile were there to celebrate the marriage of their friend Captain Nicholas Van Cutsem, an Army Officer, to 25-year old Events Organiser Alice Hadden-Paton. 31-year-old Captain Nicholas is due to be deployed to Afghanistan at the end of the year.
Whether the happy union of their friend will spur the royal couple into announcing their own wedding remains to be seen. Kate and William started dating in 2001 after meeting at university in St. Andrews. Kate’s patience has earned her the nick-name Waity Katy as she has been a permanent figure in the Prince’s life for 8 years, without the hint of an engagement.
Rumours surrounding the couple and a possible wedding have been rife for years. Recently it has been suggested that the wedding will take place before the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012, meaning wedding bells should be imminent.
The couple certainly looked the picture of love’s young dream as they enjoyed their friend’s wedding reception in London last week. Kate looked tanned and healthy after enjoying a long break on the exclusive private island of Mustique in the Caribbean. William looked less sun-kissed as he has spent the last few weeks in Anglesey, North Wales, where he is undergoing pilot training.
Wedding Day Make-up Advice
As with most aspects of your wedding, preparation is the key when it comes to flawless make-up on the day. This is not the time to be experimenting with a new look, your wedding make-up should be a polished version of what you’d normally wear. Rehearse your whole make-up regime and take plenty of photos to check you’re happy with the look. With this sensible advice ringing in your ears and some top tips from leading make-up designers to follow, we’ll guide you through your perfect wedding make-up process.
Professional make-up artist v DIY?
If you’re the kind of woman who likes to be in control, relinquishing the power to a make-up artist, no matter how good he/she is, can be challenging. The best solution is to have a run-through in order to iron out any blips before the big day. Ultimately you know your face better than anyone, you look at it every day after all, however a make-up artist will offer that professional touch to your look – plus they’re less likely to have shaky hands!
Some brides would rather invest the money they would have spent on a make-up artist on buying some luxury cosmetics. You’ll still be using that pricey mascara weeks after the wedding when your make-up designer is just a distant memory.
Lipstick
No bride wants to look overdone on their big day, however if you’re too timid with your colours, you risk looking washed out on your photos. Experts recommend using shades of pink, purple or plum on your lips as neutral shades simply won’t show up. You should also invest in a moisturising lipstick to avoid lips drying out and looking cracked over the course of the day. It’s also important to use a lip liner underneath to avoid bleeding and also all over the lip to provide a solid base.
Top Tip: Avoid having lipstick on your teeth by putting your finger in your mouth, touching your front teeth and pulling it out again so the excess lippy rubs off on your finger, not your gnashers.
Skin Brightening
A spot break out on the big day cannot be discounted so it’s best to be prepared. Flawless skin can be faked with the help of a few clever products. A skin highlighter brushed along the tops of your cheekbones and bridge of your nose helps your face come alive and look dewy and fresh. Once your face is complete, it’s worth using a make-up setter over the top to help your look last the distance.
Foundation
If you’ve bought a new one for the big day, wear in before hand to make sure it is the right shade and offers the correct amount of coverage. If your dress is low cut, it’s also worth covering your chest in a thin layer of foundation so you’re body and face match perfectly in the all important photos.
Cheek Stain
Sometimes the blushing bride needs to give nature a helping hand. Rosy cheeks are a sign of youth and vitality, an image every bride wants to project. Bear in mind the colours in your dress and opt for either a peachy or pink hue depending upon your skin tone. Cheek stains will last longer than traditional blusher however, apply sparingly as it’s powerful stuff!
Eye Lash Curlers
For that wide-eyed look and to keep your lashes open for the whole day, it’s best to use a heat assisted eye lash curler. These are pretty inexpensive and will really add to your overall look.
Blotting Tissues
A handbag staple for your wedding day – fight the sheen with these handy little tissues.
Waterproof mascara
A look to avoid on your big day
Emotions are running high, but that doesn’t mean your mascara has to follow suit. Avoid black tear-stained cheeks by investing in a high quality waterproof mascara; you may want to share it around your bridal party to avoid having panda eyed bridesmaids.
Top wedding destinations abroad
Las Vegas
America’s playground on the edge of the Nevada desert is a legendary wedding destination. It’s the city that doesn’t sleep where you can find casinos, entertainment and wedding ceremonies available 24 hours a day. Why not “do a Britney” and tie the knot in the world famous Little Wedding Chapel? They offer range of wedding services including the drive-through option, the Elvis and pink Cadillac option and the outdoor gazebo option. Guests who can’t make it can watch the ceremony as its streamed live over the internet. Alternatively there’s a huge choice of immaculate hotels where you can hold both your civil ceremony and your reception.
Mauritius
Crystal clear water and miles of golden sandy beaches, Mauritius is a mini paradise marooned in the middle of the Indian Ocean. No wonder it’s one of the most popular wedding and honeymoon destinations in the world. Couples can exchange their vows on the beach and drinks cocktails as the sunsets over the ocean. The island is well equipped for luxury weddings with a selection of hideaway beach huts and 5 star resorts peppered all along the stunning coastline.
Sri Lanka
With its exotic location, tropical jungles, exquisite beaches and ancient cities steeped in history, Sri Lanka has much to offer as a wedding resort. With the help of a professional Sri Lankan based wedding planner, you will be able to organise your dream ceremony incorporating some of the local customs; make a dramatic entrance on your wedding day by arriving onboard an elephant.
Kenya
This unique country rich with wildlife and mythical culture will provide you with a memorable experience you’ll cherish forever. Kenya is renowned for its awe inspiring wildlife but its tropical coastline, which lies along the edge of the Indian Ocean, is often forgotten. Many couples choose to have a beach wedding then a safari honeymoon.
Thailand
Thailand is legendary throughout Asia for the warm welcome and high standards of hospitality offered by Thai people. Money goes a long way in Thailand making it an exotic destination, with an affordable price tag. The stunning scenery, idyllic beaches and vibrant cities make Thailand a very attractive prospect for brides and grooms-to-be.
Find the best Asian bridal wear
For the bride, finding the perfect wedding outfit is absolutely vital. This is the most significant item of clothing you will ever buy, so you can’t afford to get this wrong. However, shopping for your bridal wear should be a fun and enjoyable experience. To help you in your quest, here’s a selection of the best Asian bridal wear suppliers in the U.K.
Charmi Creations
Based just outside London, Charmi Creations offers a stunning range of sarees, lenghas and suits for brides and also a selection of garments suitable for your bridesmaids. They also offer an expert dressmaking service so you can create your own unique bridal outfit to your exact specification. Charmi also has an extensive assortment of sumptuous fabrics and embroidery options to choose from. Your personal dressmaker will guide you through the whole process, offering professional advice and tips on the best colours and styles to suit you. Brides are invited to bring their own ideas so feel free to bring along magazine cutting and your own sketches to your initial consultation.
Laukika
Their collections are described as “exclusive ethnic indo/ western fusion” incorporating a range of styles and influences. You’ll find a wide range of bridal wear available in their ready to wear collection. All garments are made using the highest quality material and fabrics and display a superior level of craftsmanship. They also offer a large assortment of accessories including handbags and jewellery. Laukika is based in Middlesex although they also operate a thorough mail order service.
R.C.K.C
As the winner of Best Boutique of the year 2008 at the Asian Style Awards, expect an exceptional level of customer service when you visit this exclusive London store. R.C.K.C has over a hundred years experience in the Asian fashion industry and is constantly evolving and improving by incorporating new and fresh designs to its collections. They stock an extensive range of trouser suits, sarees and lenghas.
Redd Bridal
With a comprehensive mail order service, Redd Bridal is a successful couture bridal company offering a bespoke service. They have 4 competent in-house designers who will create your bridal outfit from scratch. A mannequin made to your exact measurements will be constructed to ensure you get the best fit without having to go back and forth for endless fittings.
Asian Wedding Venues
Finding a suitable venue to accommodate your Asian wedding can be a difficult task. We’ve compiled a list of the best venues in the U.K for you to host your traditional Asian wedding. From large banqueting halls, to country manors, you’ll find a varied selection right here.
Rookery Manor
Rookery Manor
This award-winning wedding venue is set in the middle of the picturesque Somerset countryside, just outside of Weston-super-Mare. They have a huge amount of experience in hosting Asian weddings so you can expect an expert service with a high level of sensitivity shown for your needs. The Manor is surrounded by 86 acres of immaculately kept gardens with lakes and walkways.
The Porchester Hall
For couples looking for a centrally based wedding venue in the city, The Porchester Hall is ideal. Situated in Bayswater, West London, it is conveniently located for guests arriving by road, rail and air. Your wedding guests won’t fail to be impressed by this magnificent building with its striking entrance crafted from the finest Portland stone and Cornish granite. The banqueting hall is large enough to accommodate 450 guests and you’ll also have exclusive use of a fully staffed private bar.
The Mill Arts and Events Centre
This spacious venue set in Rayleigh, Essex, is very popular with Asian weddings. The main hall offers seating for 400 guests and leads out onto a terraced garden. There’s also a portable staging area so you can rearrange the room layout to your own specification.
Stanmer House
One of the largest capacity wedding venues in the country, this exquisite manor house can accommodate 1,000 guests. It enjoys an idyllic rural setting and yet, is only a short drive from the centre of Brighton. Couples have the option of employing their own outside caters, or using the venue’s in-house service.
Matara Centre
The Matara Centre
The Matara Centre is a unique venue described as an “uplifting oasis of beauty.” East meets West at this country retreat which celebrates cultural diversity. It’s ideal for those looking to have an intimate wedding as the Centre has a maximum capacity of 150 guests. There really isn’t a more romantic place to tie the knot, set in 28 acres of Gloucestershire woodland surrounded by the breathtaking Cotswold countryside. Explore the extensive grounds and you’ll stumble across the Wishing Tree and the Meditative Gardens.
Unusual Wedding Venues
The Gherkin
If you’ve never considered yourselves to be a conventional couple, check out our list of top alternative wedding venues in the U.K. Some are fun and quirky, some are downright odd.
The Gherkin
Boasting the best views over the city of London, The Gherkin is the capital’s most iconic modern building. The London landmark also offers a very high standard of hospitality with some the biggest companies choosing it as the venue for their lavish parties. The Gherkin can be seen for miles around so your guests certainly won’t have any difficulty finding your wedding venue.
A Cave
Wookey Hole in Somerset, who recently appointed a new resident witch, offer couples the opportunity to exchange their vows deep underground in one of their spooky caves. There are a selection of caves to choose from, the largest can accommodate 120 guests, all of which are fully licensed for civil ceremonies.
A lighthouse
Wesk Usk Lighthouse
West Usk Lighthouse is situated halfway between Newport and Cardiff in South Wales. The lighthouse is privately owned and has been restored to a very high standard with a hot tub, four-poster beds, an exquisite spiral staircase and a beautiful roof garden with views across the Severn Estuary. Your ceremony can be conducted on top of the lighthouse in the open air. The building is steeped in history being over 180 years old and grade ll listed; keeps your eyes peeled as many of the local farmers have spotted UFO’s in the area.
Editor’s Office
We’re not sure why, but the offer is there. Media enthusiasts (if there is such a thing) can choose to commit themselves to each other in the Editor of The Daily Mirror’s office in Canary Wharf, London. Aaah, the romance! If you’re a busy career couple, this maybe the perfect venue as you can tie the knot during your lunch break; even better if you happen to work at The Daily Mirror.
Theatre
It’s expected that the newlyweds are the centre of attention on their big day, however privately owned Clonter Opera Theatre in Cheshire offers couples the opportunity to wed live on stage. They have a selection of 5 separate reception rooms to choose for your reception. The theatre enjoys an idyllic setting surrounded by bluebells woods and lush parkland.
London Eye
Climb aboard your own private capsule with your family and friends and hold tight. A full revolution takes half an hour and by the time you’ve reached the highest point of the wheel 135 metres above the city, you’ll be married. If you choose the Platinum Package you’ll also be treated to a complementary ride on the Eye to celebrate your fist wedding anniversary.
Absolut Ice Bar
Absolut Ice Bar
Set in the heart of London this sub zero venue will certainly give your guests an occasion to remember. The aisle is constructed out of the purest ice harvested from a river in Sweden. This bar is far from being a novelty venue as they also offer a very high standard of catering courtesy of their award winning chefs.
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Wedding Car Hire
