South Wales based award winning wedding planner, Weddings by Rachel, has created a complete wedding package for all couples who are looking for a one stop shop for their wedding or who plan to get married last minute.

Owner and International Wedding Planning Professional, Rachel Matthews, created the package after speaking to brides who were struggling to get things together last minute.

“Working at wedding fayres and talking to brides and grooms really brings it home how many couples are looking to get married with a quick turnaround. 2012 is really trending towards more intimate weddings with must shorter timescales, but this is adding pressure onto brides.”

“Everyone is always looking for a bargain and mid-week or last minute weddings often come with package deals at venues, but this is different. This includes everything you need to get married with the sole exception of registrar fees and the outfits.”

Weddings by Rachel have teamed with a number of reputable Welsh wedding suppliers to ensure that a competitive and reliable service can be delivered every time.

For more information on the package, contact us today!

Helen Thomas-Powell, designer and owner, has some outstanding designs in store and stocks many designers that you can’t get elsewhere – so she is definitely worth a visit when shopping for dresses!

Copyright Do You Believe?

Do You Believe? offer a range of options from your traditional whites, ivory’s and creams to dusky pinks, champagnes and bold reds.

Copyright Do You Believe?

Located on Stow Hill, Newport, Do You Believe? is the place to go for something spectacular! And you can pick up some great sale items there too!

Interview With: Faith Stone McNitt

Company Name: Faith Stone Photography

Website: www.faithstonephotography.com

Location / Coverage: Essex, East Anglia, National and International

How did Faith Stone Photography get started and how long has the business been going?

After graduating from the Art Institute of Colorado in 1999, I immediately started my business. We moved to Somerset just over 5 years ago and recently relocated to Essex.

Have you always wanted to be a photographer?

No. I always wanted to be an artist of some sort, and after trying several avenues, photography spoke to me the loudest! Having a varied art background has helped to give me a unique and qualified perspective.

Which areas of the UK do you cover?

East Anglia, Essex, National and International

How do you think your service sets you apart from other wedding photographers?

I have an Associate of Art degree, an Associate of Applied Science degree from the prestigious Art Institute of Colorado, am fully insured and a member of the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers. With 12 years of experience, I have a unique style along with a professional and friendly approach.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love what I do and do what I love! I take the documentation of a couple’s wedding very seriously and feel honoured to be chosen to provide them with images that will represent their special day for generations.

How would you describe your style of photography?

Creative, relaxing, fun, sincere, professional and flattering. Fresh, not frozen!

Do you just do wedding photography?

No. I specialise in People on Location, so I do lifestyle portraiture, baby bumps, events, editorial and commercial work.

Do you have a favourite picture you have taken (If you can choose!)?

My favourite picture changes all the time and usually comes from my most recent assignment!

Random question… If you could meet anyone, who would it be and why?

I’d love to meet Jack Nicholson; he seems so witty, vibrant and talented. I imagine meeting him would rub off some of those qualities!

What’s your top tip for choosing a wedding photographer?

Don’t overspend on your dress so that you can’t afford your photography! These are the memories of a lifetime, so invest in a photographer who is professional, easy to get along with and takes the kind of images that you can see yourself in.

Where can I find out more about Faith Stone Photography?

Telephone 07792 670461, email fsphotography@msn.com or visit www.faithstonephotography.com and click on the video link.

One thing I always say to couples is to bear in mind that you will be wearing this ring every day for the rest of your life. That is an important decision to make!

There are so many different choices of metal (yellow gold, white gold, platinum, titanium), shape (curved, fitted, shaped etc.) and band style (rounded-edge, flat, concave, rounded-edge and more) that is can be very confusing.

But don’t let it put you off! I always suggest going for what you love (after all, that’s what you did with each other, right?) and picking something that you want to wear. If you want a plain band then go for that, if you want diamonds or other stones then jewel-set wedding rings are available everywhere.

You can get your wedding rings engraved too – this may make for a nice touch if your a romantic couple.

When it comes to cost, don’t feel that you have to spend a certain amount. Only spend what you are comfortable with and can afford.

Be sure to check out how long it will take for your wedding bands to be ready. Allowing at least eight weeks is a good rule of thumb. Ask your jeweller, and if the rings will not be ready in time, don’t panic – ask them about a ‘loaner’ ring. Also be sure to get advice on sizing – a common mistake is to order a size too big.

Families often pass down wedding rings as heirlooms so this may be an option for you. If so, you probably will want to leave any original engraving inside the ring. It might also be appropriate to note in your will who you would like your rings to go to.

Speak to jewellers such as Goldsmiths and Smooch Wedding Rings about your options and see what they can suggest. They may come up with something you hadn’t even thought of!

Buffet table in purple skirting

Tables and chairs setup

Tables and chairs setup

Center table Setup

The menu

Brazilian Chicken Barbeque

Pinoy Humba

Mardigras Grilled Bangus

Fish Fillet in Sweet and Sour Sauce

Fruit Macaroni Salad

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So you’ve finally got an idea of the style of wedding gown you’re going to have for your big day, it’s time to think about what goes beneath the dress – the wedding lingerie.

The first tip is give yourself plenty of time, all too often that brides leave their bridal lingerie to the last minute. Take a bit of time to think about what you want from your wedding underwear, it’s a special day so a pair of everyday bra and knickers is not the best justice for your figure for the photos let alone your wedding dress. Whatever you decide upon, it has to be comfortable, you don’t want bits digging in or riding up all through your weeding day, and whether you opt for shapewear, corset, basque or bra, they have to complement your gown.

For those brides who feel you would like a lot of support and want to pull your figure in around your waist and hips then you might consider a bridal corset, maybe more so if your gown doesn’t already have support built into the design.

The floral tapestry corset has proved very popular with many brides as it carries a strapless design and is finished with a beautiful Venice trim. Although it has a hook and eye front fastening, it also has a waist clinching lace up back with two ties, to allow more flexibility with fitting. This corset is also available in plus sizes, which is often poses a problem for some brides.

There is a huge choice when it comes to wedding corsets, strapless, low back, deep décolleté and seamless are many of the design features available for the modern bride to be, to choose from.

If your wedding gown already has boning support in the design, however you still feel the need for some support for your bust, then the trusty bra is called for. Where do you start? Balconette, triangle, shelf, push-up, strapless, full-cup, half cup, floral, lace, satin, the list is almost endless. The next tip – get your actual measurements, especially if you’re shopping online and make sure you speak to a sales assistant as there is quite a variation between standard bra sizes, and any good store, whether online or otherwise should be able to advise you of sizing.
    

Bustiers are becoming increasingly popular amongst todays modern brides as they offer a little more support than a standard bra and also help give the figure a toned effect. However do remember that if your dress material is quite thin and designed to be close fitting then a heavy floral lace pattern may not be the way to go, but maybe look at a seamless design, like the one below.

A lot of brides are looking towards bridal body shapewear as their underwear of choice for the wedding day itself, and are choosing to change into some alternative sexy underwear for the wedding night, and why not? There are some brilliant modern shapewear solutions from full body wraps, derriere shapers, pin thin bodywraps and boyshorts, and they are increasingly available in white, nude and ivory for brides to wear beneath the wedding gown.

Explore the options, get your bridesmaids involved and have some fun along the way, there’s loads to choose from. The final tip – have your wedding lingerie for the final dress fitting, it seems obvious but you’d be surprised!

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So, if you’re looking for wedding lingerie or just some sexy underwear, think Moonrise Lingerie!

Wedding fayres also give you an opportunity to look at and actually touch examples of their work. Website are a fantastic tool for displaying portfolios but always meet with a photographer and get a real touch and feel look at their work. This is important to make sure you are getting exactly what you want.

Think about the style of photography you want. Lots of people say they don’t want ‘posed’ photos anymore, but how important is a photo of you and your nan? Or will your fiances father want a photo of the groom with his brothers? It’s something to think about and talk to your photographer about because, even though you might not want to be stood around for hours having photos taken, you only get to do it once and you don’t want to wish you had done something later on.

Ask yourself how comfortable you both are in front of a camera? Are you comfortable with it or are you a bit of a shrinking violet? If the latter is your choice maybe consider some photo-journalistic style photographers, someone who will stay in the background.

Consider how you want your images after? Do you want one album? Lots of albums? Digital photos? Ask your photographer if they can supply images how you want them before committing to anything. The last thing you want is to book a photographer and then learn they don’t supply digital images for the create your own photo book you’ve been excited to put together!

Ask for referrals. Have they worked with any suppliers you are hiring? Do they have client testimonials that they can show you? Do you know anyone who has used them? Facebook and Twitter are great tools to ask questions about suppliers. You’d be surprised how many people may have used a supplier you’re using in the past and may be able to give you some great information.

And, of course, there’s price range. In an ideal world this would have no influence in your decision, but, in a realistic world, it often does. If you have a price range of £1000, then looking at a team of photographers who charge £3000 just isn’t going to be feasible. Consider what you can realistically spend before you get too involved with any photographers, as you don’t want any heartbreak later on. Ask upfront about costs and, if you really like their work, it’s always worth discussing your budget to see if they can put a more simplistic package together for you.

Some photographers that we love at Weddings by Rachel are:

Maria Farrelly

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Oliver and Ruth

Copyright Oliver Jones

Helen Joseph Photography

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Interview With: James Aconley

Company Name: James Aconley Wedding Singer

Website: www.james-weddingsinger.co.uk

Location/Coverage: Based in North Yorkshire, but cover nationwide.

What do you do?

I sing at weddings and special events all over the country, providing high quality entertainment aiming to make your wedding day even more special. As well as wedding singing, I also perform at hotels, restaurants, private functions and corporate events all over the country.

How long have you been performing for and how did you get into performing at weddings?

I have been performing as long as I can remember! I first started as a child putting on little shows for my family and friends, and since then I have never looked back. I moved from theatre shows to small hotels and finally to bigger hotels, corporate events and weddings. A big highlight of my career so far was providing cabaret entertainment at The Club for Acts and Actors in London’s West End. I started performing at weddings about five years ago and since then I have been a part of many couples’ weddings.

What can a couple who book James Aconley for their wedding entertainment expect?

Any couple who books me as their wedding singer can be sure that they will receive a tailor-made entertainment package to suit their needs. I endeavour to provide entertainment which really makes their day one to remember. The music choice is the soundtrack to any wedding, and something that the bride, groom, their families and all the guests will remember for many years to come. Obviously, peace of mind is vital for anyone planning a wedding, so my bookings are organised and checked to every last detail – when I am arriving and performing, what I am singing, what I am wearing. Whatever your requirements, I can promise my best performance for your wedding.

What is your typical set like for a wedding?

I can perform at different times during the day. By taking a quick look at the packages page on my website you can see a number of popular combinations which are great for most weddings. From ceremony singing while the congregation arrive or while you sign the register, to a full daytime and evening performance; there are packages for everyone. Of course, if you don’t see what you require on the website I can create new packages designed specifically for your important day. For daytime bookings I can sing while you enjoy your drinks reception or while photographs are being taken to create a lovely upbeat atmosphere. For evening bookings I can sing before any other entertainment you may have planned, or I can perform sets throughout the evening while a DJ fills in the gaps to keep the atmosphere going! I sing a wide variety of genres including swing and rat pack, love songs, modern pop songs, cheesy party hits and much more, ensuring that there is something for all tastes in my entertainment packages.

Can couples be involved in the song choices?

Of course! I have an extensive repertoire which couples can choose from – which songs they would like me to perform in particular and any songs that they perhaps wouldn’t like to hear! I can also sing a couple’s special song for their first dance to add another touch of class to your evening.

Do you perform with a live band or use backing tracks?

I use first class backing tracks recorded by professional musicians to accompany my performances, allowing me to sing in many different environments and styles, which may not be possible with a band.

Random question…What is your favourite chocolate?

Anything Galaxy-ish – particularly Galaxy Counters!

Who are your main influences?

I have many influences which is reflected in the wide variety of material I sing, but my influences are mainly modern day crooners like Michael Buble and even Robbie Williams. They are bringing swing music back ‘in fashion’, making it still one of the greatest types of music of all time! I also sing songs by popular artists and bands such as The Beatles, Take That and more!

What is the best thing about what you do?

I always aim to make my performances as personal as possible for each and every couple, whether this simply means how long I sing for, or as personalised as a special song performed live. My large repertoire also ensures that there is something for everyone in my performances.

What’s your top tip for choosing the perfect wedding entertainment?

Take a look at your guest list and work out what sort of entertainment would suit the majority of the people at your wedding. Once you have made your final choice, make sure you find out as much about the artist as possible; look at pictures, watch videos and listen to music! When you are sure about booking your entertainment, try to do it as soon as possible; wedding singers and bands can only take one booking per day, so make sure it is your name in their diary for the day of your wedding!

Where can I find out more about James Aconley?

There is a lot more information about me on my website www.james-weddingsinger.co.uk. This also includes videos and music clips as well as an example set list to give you an idea of the types of music I perform. You can also give me a call on 07908 781578 or email james@aconley.net and I would be more than happy to answer any enquiries.

Visit the James Aconley supplier page on The Wedding Community

They also fundraise for Military charities – Help For Heroes (UK) and Operation Gratitude (USA).

The armed forces are very close to my heart having both of my brothers in the army and I have seen first hand how the time apart can affect families. It is because of this and because of the great work that Emma is doing that Weddings by Rachel is thrilled to be a part of the programme, offering a huge discount to armed forces members.

Some suppliers on Military Wedding Discounts (including myself) also offer the discount to retired members of the forces.

For more information visit 
http://militaryweddingdiscounts.com/
.

Come and see us and have a chat about how we can work with you to create a bespoke, unique and personal day for you both within your budget, saving you money along the way!

You can download our leaflet in PDF format by clicking here.

Weddings by Rachel also offer additional free resources here.

Get in touch for help and advice when planning your wedding day.

Llancaiach Fawr Manor

Based in Caerphilly, this haunted manor has outstanding gardens and the staff are so helpful and friendly. Beautiful buildings and views make this venue what it is. Definitely worth a visit!

Copyright South Wales Wedding Photographers

Nash Point Lighthouse

For intimate weddings of up to 25 guests this venue is sensational. Absolutely gorgeous, picturesque and unusual, Nash Point Lighthouse is something that little bit special!

Copyright Sacha Miller Photography

St. Donat’s Castle

This is a great up and coming wedding venue in South Wales. Situated in Llantwit Major, St. Donat’s Castle is a beautiful building with great character. With sea views this is the perfect locations for the romantic bride and groom.

Copyright St. Donat's Castle

Plas Cilybebyll

Located near Swansea, Plas Cilybebyll is can hold up to 60 guests and boasts 2 acres of gardens, 2 function rooms and 11 bedrooms – all available for exclusive use allowing you your own perfect wedding hideaway.

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Coal Exchange

Cardiff’s famous coal exchange is a large and versatile wedding venue which can be used to create your own perfect masterpiece. The perfect venue for something a little extravagant!

Copyright The Coal Exchange

Get in touch with us at Weddings by Rachel for help, tips, advice, support and on the day wedding coordination to help you create your perfect wedding day within your budget!

Interview With: Trish Rawlins

Website: www.trishrawlins.co.uk

Location / Coverage: Swindon, Wiltshire

What do you do?

I work as a Professional Makeup Artist; it is a job that found me rather than me finding it. I am honoured to be in the beauty sector and I love where this job has taken me. I started working locally and then went national, and my work has also taken me internationally.

I also work as a trainer, working on your inner beauty from confidence building, resolving conflict to effective communication. This enables me to project the “real inner beauty” that we ALL have. My workshops also include Healing Our Scars – healing our internal scars whilst also minimising/removing our external scars.

How did your business get started and how long has it been going for?

I have been in the business for the past 16 years. I started off as a model and at a fashion shoot the makeup artist didn’t show up, and it was suggested that I should apply the makeup for the girls. That was it, I was hooked and I have been doing makeup ever since. I am now involved in photography, beauty (inside and outside) and the wedding industry.

Which areas do you cover?

Over the years I have worked internationally but have now pulled in the reins somewhat and I am now working nationally. The specific geographical areas that I now cover are Swindon and the surrounding areas, Berkshire, Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire.

What wedding services do you offer?

I offer mostly bridal services, here are a few:

• Bridal Makeup
• Full Bridal Party Services
• Eye Enhancement
• Male Grooming

What sets you apart from other make-up services?

I am able to put makeup on any skin tone and type and I tend to carry a wide range of foundation shades. I believe that this is a job that you need to show passion and if you do that the client will be happy.

Random question… What’s your favourite flavour of crisps?

When I tend to eat crisps I do prefer Thai Chilli or Paprika flavours.

Which product ranges do you use?

I use a wide range of products in my kit, and these range from:

• Ben Nye
• Clinique
• Kryolan
• Mac
• Max Factor
• Mehron
• MUA
• Sacha
• Sleek

What’s the best thing about your job?

This is my dream job; no two days are the same. I am now involved in fashion shows, weddings, music videos, calendar shoots, makeup workshops, family projects and I am a guest speaker for trauma/domestic violence groups.

What is their not to like? With all the experience that I have gained in this sector I am now able to pass on my experience by teaching courses.

What are your top wedding make-up tips?

• Choose a makeup artist who is experienced in wedding makeup
• Always book a trial
• Remember that your makeup should be an enhancement of you

Where can I find out more about Trish Rawlins?

Visit www.trishrawlins.co.uk

Visit the Trish Rawlins supplier page on The Wedding Community

You can download our wedding photography checklist in PDF format by clicking here.

Weddings by Rachel also offer additional free resources here.

Get in touch for help and advice when planning your wedding day.

But it doesn’t end there, Fruity Bouquets can do these trees with pretty much any sweets you want. These are great to double up as dessert and make such a beautiful centre piece – great if you’re looking for something a bit out there! And you don’t even have to worry about colours, for example, I love this Ferraro Rocher one for gold weddings!

Contact us at Weddings by Rachel for more tips, support and advice on planning your wedding day!

Interview With: Anthony Eyre

Company Name: The Letter Press of Cirencester Ltd

Website: www.letterpress.co.uk

Location / Coverage: Cirencester, Gloucestershire / UK & Europe

What does The Letter Press of Cirencester do?

The Letter Press is a traditional jobbing printer concentrating on producing quality stationery tailored to the individual requirements and preferences of our customers.

Who works at The Letter Press of Cirencester and what are your roles?

The Press employs a total of 15 under the direction of myself, Anthony Eyre; Chris, Mark and Adrian man our printing office, producing the work for our finishers Karen, Pamela, Mark, Jemma and Luke – who also does our digital printing. Upstairs the typesetting and artwork is done by Patrick, Sue and Carly, while Renée runs Customer Service and Leila does the accounts. Last but not least Helen keeps our very attractive shop, as well as running our samples service.

How did The Letter Press of Cirencester come about and how long has the company been running?

The Letter Press was established in 1986 when I married Kate and left a London career in publishing to live with her in Wiltshire. I had a background in printing from school and also printing for the William Morris Society; I was soon joined by Kate who brought with her, from WH Smith, an experience of marketing and stationery retailing.

Why is your company called The Letter Press of Cirencester?

It is a play on words: we set up as letterpress printers, who primarily printed letters, i.e. personal stationery. We still print letterpress, but have also added a number of other processes over the years.

Describe your workshop.

We are based in a long building, once a coaching inn, in the centre of Cirencester, on the entrance to Brewery Car Park. One end is the old gabled inn built from Cotswold stone, leading at the other end to a long shed where the printing office is located.

Have you always been creative?

I have always enjoyed the world of typography: designs produced by The Letter Press are derivative, and the sources are varied in the extreme: the letters cut into Trajan’s Column in Rome, William Morris’s work, the styles of the private press printers in the 1920s and ‘30s, Victorian copperplate, the work of Eric Gill, and so on.

What wedding stationery can The Letter Press of Cirencester make?

We print letterpress, litho, hot-foil, blind embossed, die stamped and digital colour. We add finishes such as satin or organza ribbons, bindi jewels, tassels and silk cords, tissue or paper envelope linings, gilt or coloured edges with round or square corners. We are led by what our customers want.

Do you offer a bespoke wedding stationery service as well as your collections?

All our wedding styles are starting points which customers can adapt to their own taste.

How do you create bespoke stationery for each of your couples? What’s involved in the planning?

Usually customers wanting a completely bespoke service have a fairly clear idea of what they want, generally supplying the artwork themselves. Otherwise one-to-one consultation based on samples we can supply is the way we go.

Does The Letter Press of Cirencester just make wedding stationery or do you have other products and services?

We print a wide range of personal stationery, business stationery and social stationery as well, with a wide range of party invitations.

Do you have a favourite stationery collection that The Letter Press of Cirencester has made?

Our motif style printed letterpress on Impression board has been very successful.

Random question… Do you have any pets?

The Press dog is a whippet called Jack. When not hogging the heater he is usually chasing rabbits.

Where can I find out more about The Letter Press of Cirencester?

Visit our website www.letterpress.co.uk

Visit The Letter Press of Cirencester supplier page on The Wedding Community

You can download our first dance suggestions in PDF format by clicking here.

Weddings by Rachel also offer additional free resources here.

Get in touch for help and advice when planning your wedding day.

I particularly love this design for bringing in the blues with silver and for creating something extremely unusual which doubles as a great talking point for the drinks reception and wedding breakfast!

Visit us at Weddings by Rachel for great planning tips and advice and on the day wedding coordination. Contact us today!

Interview with: Claire May Sankey

Company Name: Lily and May – Floral Design

Website: www.lilyandmay.co.uk

Location: Brentwood, Essex

How did Lily and May get started and how long has the business been going?

The idea of the business started over 6 years ago whist on honeymoon in Italy; I was very much a creative trapped in a corporate world! Lily & May was born early 2010.

Who works at Lily and May?

Myself and my assistant Tasha (she keeps me sane!).

Why is the business called Lily and May?

The Lily component is named after my great-grandmother. Growing up I had always been referred to as May (my maiden name) name so this is a reference to myself.

Where is Lily and May based and do you have a shop? Which areas of the UK do you cover?

All work and consultations are carried out in the studio at home, which is my little sanctuary. All areas of Essex are covered along with some parts of London.

What type of flowers can you provide for a wedding?

Every aspect of floral decoration can be provided for a wedding, from bouquets and buttonholes to venue and church dressing.

What sets Lily and May apart from other wedding florists?

I think it is really important to spend time with the client to gain a good solid understanding of their likes and dislikes. I ensure the flowers really reflect the style of the client and that each wedding is unique by adding my own personal touch to every design I work on.

What flowers and colours were most requested for 2011 weddings?

2011 was the year of the purple and plum-wedding colour schemes, with brides becoming very brave with their colours by requesting bold designs. The Amnesia rose was very popular along with hydrangea.

What do you think will be the trend for 2012 wedding flowers in terms of style and colours?

Apricots and nudes are becoming increasingly popular with vintage style designs still remaining in high demand.

Does Lily and May have a specialist floral area?

I love creating arrangements that look luxurious so tend to pack designs with lots of blooms; I also love vintage style arrangements as these are timeless.

What are your top tips for choosing wedding flowers?

• Before meeting with a florist ensure that you have decided on your dress and if possible a colour scheme as these will help to theme the flowers.
• Let the florist know your budget as this will help with suggestions.
• Always meet with your florist, as it’s important to feel you can trust their judgement.
• Try not to follow fashions; always choose designs because you like them.

Random question… Who is your idol?

Jo Malone. To start and manage an international brand from the bottom up is awe-inspiring. She is a great role model for women.

Do you have a favourite floral arrangement for a wedding that you have made?

Such a difficult question as my favourites change depending on my mood, but if forced I would have to say this vintage bouquet using Essex grown roses – timeless!

What is your favourite flower?

Lily of the Valley. I was lucky enough to have a bouquet for my own wedding made purely from this flower, made by my very talented mother in law.

Where can I find out more about Lily and May?

Visit the website www.lilyandmay.co.uk or take a look at the Lily and May Facebook page. Alternatively contact me via email.

Visit the Lily and May supplier page on The Wedding Community

You can download our first dance suggestions in PDF format by clicking here.

Weddings by Rachel also offer additional free resources here.

Get in touch for help and advice when planning your wedding day.

The concrete jungle may have been where Ivi and Candace’s wedding dreams were made, but they chose Waldorf Astoria Orlando to help bring their dreams to life!

Ivi and Candace, who met and currently live in New York City, knew they wanted to have their destination wedding in Orlando, but they also wanted to capture the essence of NYC in their theme. Waldorf Astoria Orlando was the perfect venue for the couple. Candace affectionately said Waldorf Astoria Orlando screams “Manhattan!”

With the help of Greenery Productions, Shanna Michele Designs and Pure Magic Ice Cream, the couple’s big city dreams were brought to life in a whole new way. Setting the tone of the wedding, Greenery Productions created a life-size backdrop of Sheep’s Meadow, the couple’s favorite area in Central Park. This beautiful backdrop evoked a romantic feeling for the reception, as if guests were attending a private, intimate reception, right in the middle of Central Park. These fun, New York-themed touches also included taxi-cab escort cards, menus created to mirror the famed NYC skyline, and nitrogen ice cream. The special New York touches were everywhere, including the music provided by DJ Scott Messina. The wedding party made a grand entrance into the reception as Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind” was playing in the background.

This Waldorf wedding was truly unforgettable. Shipra Panosian’s brilliant photography captured the essence of this couple’s beautiful day. Please enjoy Ivi and Candace’s wedding highlights in the image gallery below.

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Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Ahuja!

For more information on weddings at Waldorf Astoria Orlando, please visit our website, or contact Michaela Nobrega at Michaela.Nobrega@hilton.com.  Our wedding team can also be reached by phone at 407-597-5424.

Anne Hathaway and Adam Shulman

This lovely couple has been engaged for quite some time and although there is no date officially set we’re hoping it sooner rather than later.

Kate Hudson and Matthew Bellamy

Engaged in early 2011, Kate and Matthew will hopefully tie the knot in 2012 following the birth of their child in July.

Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson

Another couple who have been engaged for a while, Jessica and Eric were due to get married last year but delayed the date due to the birth of their first child.

Natalie Portman and Benjamin Millepied

Engaged in 2010, Natalie and Benjamin are rumoured to be tying the knot this year.

Matthew McConaughey and Camila Alves

They’ve been together for five years and Matthew popped the question at Christmas.

Britney Spears and Jason Trawick

Britney and Jason announced their engagement in December at the celebration of Jason’s 40^th birthday.

Elizabeth Hurley and Shane Warne

Elizabeth and Shane got engaged during their vacation in Scotland. Warne proposed with a ring worth nearly $100,000!

What weddings are you looking forward to this year and what do you think will set some trends?

Get in touch with Weddings by Rachel to help your wedding dreams come true. www.weddingsbyrachel.co.uk/contact.html.

2012 is seeing a lot of colour with some old favourites coming back to the forefront and dominating all over again.

Purple

A true favourite for brides and, matched with silver, it makes a real statement. Use different shades to create depth in your decorations and outfits and match with flowers such as the exotic orchid Vanda, freesias and stocks.

Black and White

The impact theme! This is a real favourite for me – it is very dramatic and can really set the scene for an elegant and formal wedding. However, it is important to utilise it well. Use different linens to create the style you are looking for and incorporate black chargers and beads to create an almost theatrical look.

Greens

This is not limited. I am seeing all sorts of greens from sage and olive to turquoise and grass green. It is very popular to match them with creams and golds, or, if you want to go bold and bright, why not match with pinks for a great contrast? Green bridesmaid dresses with a pink sash look fantastic. Also, why not try hiring lots of trees to create a romantic, outdoorsy look.

Blues

Blue is making a comeback this season and also doubles up as the bride’s ‘something blue’. Why not have blue stationery – this will have a great impact on your wedding day with menus, table names and a table plan. You can do this with a blue background or blue text and mixing different shades will add a textured feel to your stationery.

Naturals

With vintage being right at the top of 2012 themes it’s no surprise that naturals are very big. Golds, browns, coppers, creams and the like are well and truly ‘in’. Try incorporating the colours into your table centres, for example, why not have a copper lantern? You can always decorated with cream flowers for that added touch of opulence.

Get in touch with Weddings by Rachel to help your wedding dreams come true. www.weddingsbyrachel.co.uk/contact.html.

Interview with: Az Rehman

Company Name: Lemontree Photography

Website: www.lemontree-photography.co.uk

Location / Coverage: Hampshire and the surrounding counties

Can you remember how old you were when you took your first picture?

My dad was the photographer in our family, and when he retired he went out and bought himself an Pentax SLR. I was 13 at the time and started taking pictures with it straight away.

How long have you been a photographer?

I’ve been a full time photographer for over 15 years, and before that I worked in high-end photo labs as a hand printer.

Which areas of the UK do you cover? Do you travel abroad to photograph weddings?

I mainly cover Hampshire where I live, but also shoot regularly in Dorset, Wiltshire, Surrey and Berkshire. I haven’t shot a wedding abroad yet. I holidayed in Iceland recently and would love to photograph a wedding there.

What do you feel makes your service different from other wedding photographers in the UK?

I wouldn’t say I’m different or have a USP. I do work in a very relaxed way on the wedding day but know plenty of other photographers that do so too.

What do you love most about being a wedding photographer?

The best part about for me is being at a wedding; they’re great fun!

Do you only do wedding photography?

I shoot corporate work, nurseries and work on my own images too. Photography is still my hobby so the personal work is very important to me.

Who/what are your photography influences?

I drool over the quality and skill of so many wedding photographers’ work, but the people I am consistently impressed by are Jeff Newsom, Shooting Hip, Heather Waraska and Erik Clausen.

Do you/have you attended any wedding photography courses?

I do attend courses, one of the things I love about wedding photography is that there is always something new to learn. I am very excited to be attending the first ever photography workshop that is being held in the UK with Californian based photographer Jeff Newsom, also known as The Voltron of Awesomeness.

What does your wedding photography for couples included?

I basically include a whole day’s photography with two of us present, all images in a gallery, and the high quality edited images supplied on a flash drive with a preview album. The images also go in to a password protected gallery. I supply albums as well and use a variety of suppliers to give clients more options.

Do you have a favourite picture you have taken (If you can choose!)?

One of my faves is from Alice and Tim’s wedding at Avington Park this year. The expression on her face says it all.

What is your top tip for choosing a wedding photographer?

Make sure they are experienced; I bet all your other wedding suppliers are.

Random question… Blackberry or iPhone?

Blackberry, although I have a great ‘app’ that stops me from getting jealous of everyone who owns an iPhone.

Where can people find out more about Lemontree Photography?

All the usual places…

• Lemontree blog
• Lemontree Facebook Page
• Lemontree on Twitter
• Or even on the telephone 02380 860501

Visit the Lemontree Photography supplier page on The Wedding Community

Sandals

So it’s not new information but Sandals is the ultimate in luxury. You can also get some great offers too so it’s worth shopping around at places like Thomas Cook and Virgin (two places I know have done fab offers before).

For inspiration visit
http://www.sandals.co.uk/
.

Italy

Need I say more? With beautiful areas such as Capri and the Amalfi Coast, it’s perfect for those looking for a bit of romance, great food and culture.

Japan

For those seeking something out-of-the-ordinary, Japan is one of those honeymoon destinations that is truly memorable. There’s nothing quite like the bright lights and busy streets of Tokyo, but taking a trip into the more remote areas of Japan, like the Hoshinoya Karuizawa resort in the Kitasaku District is considered the ultimate escape.

Cruise

For those of you who love the water why not consider going on a cruise? There are so many luxury liners nowadays that travel the world, why not look at Royal Caribbean to be inspired?

Adventure Honeymoon

Looking for a bit of adventure? Why not hire a mobile home and travel America? Or go on safari? Or for those of you who don’t mind the cold, maybe go skiing or on a Polar expedition to the Arctic?

Closer to Home

If you want to stay a bit closer to home why not look at Snowdonia or Devon – great places to hire cottages and go exploring. There are also some fantastic luxury hotels around if you’re looking for a bit of pampering.

Get in touch with Weddings by Rachel to help your wedding dreams come true. Contact us today.