Editor loves and inspiration

Staci and Adam met at a networking event at Worcester Racecourse. “A couple of years later, we matched with each other on a dating app and our relationship quickly blossomed,” says Staci. “Adam is a big horseracing fan and I’ve started going with him occasionally, which is funny since we first met each other at the races.”

Adam proposed as a surprise on Christmas morning in 2021. “He had filled the ceiling of our lounge with balloons and streamers,” shares the bride. “When I saw him, he was there on one knee, surrounded by rose petals in a gorgeous tuxedo, with the most amazing ring in his hand.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/free-download

Stylist, planner and wedding stationery designer, June Glackin tells us how to style an intimate wedding.

"I get beyond excited when couples choose to have a small and intimate wedding. Don't get me wrong, I love a good old wedding with guests galore, but there's something magical about having just your nearest and dearest, your 'select few' in one place to celebrate with you. But don't be fooled into thinking that being small and intimate means a lack of style or class. Just because couples are opting for a smaller guest count doesn't mean that they aren't wanting their day to look or feel like a wedding; in fact, some of the small and intimate weddings I've worked on have really played on the intimacy of it, having personalised printed love notes to each guest, really drilling down to the intimacy and the aesthetic of the day, being able to pay attention to the finer details, yet also having fun with it. Having a beautifully decorated space, a large table for all to gather around, no formalities, just letting it be, with linens, candles and florals, to then feast on pizza and prosecco and party into the night!"

See more top tips in our intimate wedding feature in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/free-download

The team at The Wedding Club share their wedding dress trends predictions for 2024.

"Last year, we saw the return of the structured corset, whereas 2024 is all about dual wedding pieces. We’re talking detachable lace arms and puff sleeves that take one dress and elevate it into a different look midway through the wedding.

"Not too far from this will be the mix-and-match look. We are seeing more and more designers creating modern two-pieces that all cohesively work with one another; think power suits with interchangeable tops.

"Last but not least, bold mini dresses are charging up the poll, becoming increasingly popular as a wedding reception choice, allowing a bride more freedom to socialise and show off their moves on the dancefloor."

See more top tips in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/free-download

Kara and Robbie met nine years ago when Kara signed up to take part in a charity boxing match that Robbie was coaching. “The first thing he ever said to me was 'how many fingers am I holding up?' after a roller derby girl smashed me in the face while sparring,” says Kara. “Our relationship blossomed and in May 2022, Robbie proposed during a weekend away in Amsterdam.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/free-download

The Grade II-listed Anglican Chapel was built in 1847 using Hartshill stone in a Norman style. The chapel has undergone extensive restoration and is now equipped with underfloor heating, bronze casement double glazing, and all the facilities to accommodate a range of events, meetings, and ceremonies.

Claire Healy, the ceremonies manager for Coventry Registration District, tells us more: “In the mid-Victorian era, as city centre churchyards became overcrowded, carefully designed and landscaped cemeteries on the outskirts of cities became increasingly popular. As well as being natural environments often full of exotic trees and plants, many also displayed beautiful architecture designed by renowned architects of the day. London Road Cemetery is no exception; it was designed by Sir Joseph Paxton, an architect, gardener, and Member of Parliament for Coventry who notably designed Crystal Palace in London."

See more from the shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/free-download

Rebecca and Bradley met in March 2020 and had an instant connection. “After five dates, lockdown hit,” says Rebecca. “We spent three months talking via FaceTime, and at that point, we knew if we could get through lockdown, we could get through anything. Straight after the restrictions eased, we went house hunting and nine months later, we finally managed to move in together!

“In October 2021, we went to Kos, Greece, for a holiday, and Bradley turned to me and told me he had a gift for me,” continues Rebecca. “He looked into my eyes, got down on one knee, and asked me, while trying to hold back the tears, if I would marry him. I obviously said yes. I couldn’t believe it; my dream had finally come true.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/free-download

A team of local suppliers worked together to highlight the natural charm of a tipi while adding an element of romance and elegance. “A tipi offers an intimate setting for celebrating your special day while embracing nature and the great outdoors,” says Beth Clayton from Sami Tipi. “The strong floral elements created a contrast against the rustic backdrop of the tipi and kept in line with the luxurious theme. The choice of pale pinks and oranges infused warmth and vibrancy into the setting, while the lemon-coloured napkins added a refreshing pop of brightness. Pale pink table linen served as a gentle base for the overall design, contrasting with the white chiffon chair drapes to enhance the soft and romantic atmosphere."

See more from the shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/free-download

Jennifer Lynch from Arrange My Escape tells us how to plan the perfect honeymoon.

"Couples are naturally drawn to destinations that exude romance and tranquillity, making sandy beaches an obvious choice. Two standout locations for honeymoons are Mauritius and the Maldives, renowned for their secluded beaches adorned with white sand, gentle waves, and breathtaking sunsets. However, the appeal of honeymoon destinations extends beyond the allure of sandy beaches alone. Other popular destinations are those showcasing stunning natural landscapes and offering a plethora of activities to enjoy. From hiking through lush rainforests and dramatic coastal cliffs in Antigua to an animal-lovers dream tour of Madagascar, couples can truly be emersed in a country’s unique vibrancy and culture.

"Choose a destination that excites both of you and matches your interests. Start planning early to have a wide range of options and the best prices for your budget. Booking in advance can also save you from last-minute stress."

See more from our Planning SOS feature in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/free-download

Couples looking for something special for their guests will love Warwickshire Gin Company's miniature spirits, which make the perfect table favours.

Great conversation starters, the inspiration behind the award-winning distillery’s collection comes from a desire to capture a moment in history, develop flavours to fully represent the county’s own unique story, and bring the range of hand-crafted flavours to life.

The new special-edition rums are among those also now available in 5-cl servings, with the added option of rope-handled gift bags and tonics or even handmade chocolates infused with their own gin or rum. The rum collection is inspired by Warwickshire’s own legendary boxing champion, Randolph Turpin, who earned himself the nickname Leamington Licker.

See more local news in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/free-download

Me’sha and Darren are musicians who met when she was performing her original music at Shepherds Bush Cricket Club. “He’s a drummer, educator, and two-time all-natural bodybuilding champion; I’m a singer, actor, and vocal coach,” says Me’sha. “I had a habit of firing drummers from my band, so when I first set eyes on Darren, I thought, ‘Oh no! He’s really handsome!’ Annoyingly, he’d been really attentive when learning my music, brought his own drumkit to the gig, knew all the lyrics to my songs, and was really good with children. We were also both members of the faculty at a specialist music school in London, so not long after that, we started dating, and I didn’t have to fire him from my band!”

Darren proposed on New Year’s Eve in 2021. “We’d been watching Alicia Keys perform on TV,” shares the bride. “He left the room, came back, got down on one knee, and proposed to me next to the sofa. Sadly, I don’t remember any of his proposal, because as soon as I heard him say my name and I saw the ring in the box, it was like I was suddenly underwater. I do, however, remember our hug afterwards and the look of relief on his face when I said yes.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yourwestmidlands.wedding/free-download