Editor loves and inspiration

Jordan and Mark met via friends while studying at university and would often see each other at parties. In fact, it was one birthday party in particular where they really hit it off, but it was just when Jordan was about to move to London for work. However, they didn't give up and met up in London for a few dates, as well as embarking on a long distance relationship with Mark remaining in Leeds. Happily, everything worked beautifully for the couple and seven months later, Jordan moved back up to Yorkshire.

Mark popped the question in their kitchen one day with the words: “I wanted to begin our next big adventure in the place we started our first one.” The two had purchased a big renovation project a year before, intended to be their forever home, so it's sentimental to them. “I wasn't expecting a proposal, but obviously I said 'yes',” Jordan says. “He'd already put Champagne in the fridge, ready to celebrate.”

Setting out on their venue search, the couple had only visited one venue before meeting the staff at Escrick Park. “They took us to look at Skipwith Hall and we immediately fell in love with the gardens there,” Jordan explains. “So, when we found out we could get married in the gardens, we were sold!” The two are both fans of the great outdoors and Jordan adores wildflowers, so they quickly knew it was the venue for them. “We were able to make it really personal to us and knowing they only had a few weddings there each year meant it felt extra special. An extra bonus was that the day we had our first date was available, so we were married five years later to the day,” Jordan continues.

To find out more, download the latest issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding free at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download

Spain is a place very close to Verity's heart having spent every summer there as a child. So, when Jonny decided to propose, this was where he took her. Hiring a boat, they went out to sea to watch the dolphins. Mesmerised as they swam past, Verity didn't initially notice until she turned around that Jonny was down on one knee holding out her engagement ring. “It was the best surprise ever and a very magical moment,” she remembers.

Dunedin Country House is local to Verity and had plenty of accommodation for Jonny's family who were travelling down from Newcastle. “It's a beautiful venue and the gardens are wonderfully kept,” Verity explains. “The food is also outstanding, and we do love our food!” So, they secured their date for 16th June 2023.

Discover the story of Verity & Lee's big day in the current issue, free to download at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download

Sinead and Harry met online in 2016 and quickly discovered a mutual love/hate relationship with Bradford City, as well as a passion for music. Responding to the many hints Sinead had been dropping, Harry casually proposed in 2023, which suited the couple perfectly.

The Coniston Hotel Country Estate and Spa captured both their hearts. “It's our top choice for a weekend getaway and spa break, and after Katie gave us a personal tour of the Estate, we knew it was the perfect wedding venue for us,” Sinead shares. So, they confi rmed their wedding date and paid their deposit that same day. “Knowing they have a highly-experienced wedding team meant we wouldn't have to stress about minor details, which was a huge relief,” Sinead continues. As well as the friendly and accommodating team who went above and beyond to make sure the couple had the wedding they dreamed of, the stunning 1,400-acres of grounds complete with picturesque lake truly made their day.

Discover the story of Sinead and Harry's big day in the current issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding, free to download at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download

Welcome to one of Sheffield’s newest venues, which opened in 2023: Steel City Chapel, the ultimate Vegas-inspired elopement chapel venue! Nestled in the heart of Kelham Island, this funky and vibrant space is where dreams become reality and love takes centre stage. Whether you’re looking for an intimate ceremony or a lively vow renewal, this oh-so cool space has you covered.

So, step into a world of glitz, glamour and electric energy, where the spirit of Sin City meets the undeniable charm of Yorkshire’s very own Sheffield. Get ready to say “I do” accompanied by 16 of your nearest and dearest in a place where every moment is a celebration. This is your passport to an unforgettable experience that combines the magic of Vegas with the warmth of the Chapel’s vibrant community. Get ready to roll the dice on love and immerse yourself in a truly extraordinary celebration at Steel City Chapel!

For more Sheffield venues, download the Jul/Aug24 issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding, free at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download

Founded as a monastery in 1145, Newburgh Priory is a magnificentstately home surrounded by picturesque grounds, lakes and ancient woodland. A Grade I listed Tudor building near Coxwold, North Yorkshire, steeped in history and set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the house provides uninterrupted views across the lake to the Hambleton Hills and the White Horse of Kilburn.

With a character and charm all their own the house and grounds have an intriguing past with links to the English military and political figure Oliver Cromwell. The Priory benefi ts from almost 40 acres of landscaped gardens surrounding the house, while its formal lawns, topiary and borders create a breathtaking location for your special day. Dotted throughout the grounds are also several hidden romantic gardens, such as the magical Water Garden and the Walled Garden with roses tumbling over archways leading to the lily pond.

Elegant and south-facing, the Large Drawing Room with its magnificent Cortese ceiling offers a grand, yet welcoming, setting for a ceremony.

Proceeding down the central aisle to the bow-fronted windows looking out to the gardens beyond, framed by two pillars, it makes for a spectacular start to the day. It can host 100 loved ones.

The Small Drawing Room is a beautiful space with delicate plaster ceiling and wealth of portraits with room for 40 nearest and dearest. It also makes for a quiet retreat as well as a beautiful location for group photos.

The Long Gallery Ruins allow you to enjoy a blessing or humanist ceremony in their midst for an indoor/outdoor wedding. Choose to say your vows here and do the legal formalities in one of the three licensed Georgian rooms, the local church or elsewhere, then you and 200 of your loved ones can enjoy an informal gathering in the great outdoors. A marquee will also nestle nicely here allowing you to enjoy your dinner and dancing surrounded by the ruined walls, a dramatic and memorable setting.

Finally, with the house as the backdrop together with views over the spectacular parkland, The Ancient Lawns is the perfect spot for those requiring a little more room with space for up to 300 guests in a marquee.

For more pitch perfect, under canvas venues, check out the Jul/Aug24 issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding, free to download at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download

The wedding cake: sweet treat, reception dessert or showstopping centrepiece? Who's to say it can't be all three? Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, the big-day bake has been an enduring tradition and wedding stalwart since couples first said “I do.” Its origins are thought to date back to Ancient Rome when a cake of wheat or barley was broken over the bride's head to signify good fortune. Thankfully, you won't be forced to wear the delicacy today, so it's something that's well worth thinking about. The modern cake maker is now more versatile than ever and can whip you up a sweet showstopper big enough to take the place of your wedding breakfast dessert, or be served at your evening reception. Handing out the slices is also a lovely way of making sure you get round to see all of your guests. Alternatively, there's the option to have a spectacular tower made up of cupcakes or macarons, even doughnuts if you prefer. And don't forget, a cheese stack is a great choice if you fancy something savoury.

What we love best about the modern wedding cake is its capacity to act as a work of art and form a key focal point in your venue styling. Displayed on its own table, adorned in your wedding flowers, set against a neon sign or flower wall backdrop it'll be a feature to remember, helping to bring your theme together. Super-talented bakers can even decorate these centrepieces to illustrate your own unique love story. So, it's with their showstopping styling quality in mind that we bring to you a showcase of breathtaking bakes with the help of local talented cake makers.

I love this delicate design by Poppy Pickering Cake Design.

For more stunning bakes, download the Jul/Aug24 issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding, free at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download

So, you've booked your venue, the next thing to think about is how to turn this blank space into the wedding you dream of. With a professional venue stylist on hand this is a piece of cake! From props to palettes, tablescapes to backdrops these folks have a world of wonder at their fi ngertips to help them make your day uniquely you. We caught up with some of the county's experts to find out what's at the top of their hotlists for 2024 and beyond when it comes to palettes, themes, and props.

Nicola Whiteley, Styled With Grace, says, “There's been a recent trend in couples adding pops of colour in two contrasting tones, for example, pink and green. This is then echoed in the bridesmaids' attire featuring different bright shades.”

For more venue styling inspiration download the Jul/Aug24 issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding, free to download at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download

Bijou Bridal Boutique in Honley is an independently run haven for any bride on the lookout for her ultimate dress. Along with one-to-one service from its lovely owner Kerensa Dyson, it offers leading labels in British designer bridalwear, bridesmaids dresses, and accessories including shoes veils and hair pieces.

“I see it as a real honour to be a part of a bride's journey, from choosing her dress to collecting it for the big day,” Kerensa says. “Ultimately, the bride will only have one point of contact throughout her experience in the boutique, which is why I guarantee she'll have the most stress-free experience possible.” Offering award-winning customer service alongside the best in British bridal design, Bijou Bridal Boutique offers a must-visit location when shopping for the one.

We've partnered with this local lovely to offer readers spending July and August in search of their dream wedding dress a very special 10% discount (terms and conditions apply). To claim, simply get in touch with Kerensa to book your appointment on 01484 690 454 or at hello@bijoubridalboutique.co.uk and quote 'Your Yorkshire Wedding.'

Find out more at www.bijoubridalboutique.com. Don't miss your chance to claim offer ends 31st August! 2024!

Download the Jul/Aug issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding free at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download

In this issue's Hot Topic, local experts offer stellar advice on overcoming the most common planning concerns.

I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT FLOWERS; WHERE DO I START?

Kelly Stanford from Fox Flora (www.foxflora.co.uk) says: Here are my top tips for getting started.

Think about the colours you naturally gravitate towards. What does your wardrobe or home look like? What complements your skin tone or personality? Do you love polished neutrals or rainbow brights? Dark and moody or light and airy? Complementary colours or direct opposites can work beautifully. I often like to throw in a colour curve ball adding black to neutrals, brown to peach and blue to make something characterful.

Agree on your wedding aesthetic. The venue sets the tone for your wedding but flowers and styling elevate that to create an aesthetic, a feeling and experience. Whether you’re planning an arty party or calm modern elegance, beautiful boho or rustic romance, have a discussion together about what best represents you. I encourage my couples to think about these keywords to help narrow things down.

Create wow wedding flower moments that add value. Focussing on one impactful floral installation that can be re-used can really add value. A super-stylish arty flower cloud above your ceremony space, later suspended over your top table and after that the dancefloor, can frame beautiful wedding photos that last a lifetime.

Alternatively, what about a floral arch that can be moved to your top table and create a backdrop for guest photos in the event, or aisle flowers that later line the front of your top table? Our signature modular floral arrangements are designed to move with your day. The opportunities are endless but will vary depending on your wedding, the ceremony and reception venue. Speak to your florist to devise a plan.

Budgeting. Costs vary depending on your preferred flowers, season and overall look you’re going for, as well as the impact you’re looking to create. On average, you should be looking at spending 10 to 15 per cent of your budget on wedding florals covering your bridal party, ceremony and reception.

Choosing your wedding suppliers. Pick suppliers that can support you in bringing your vision to life. We work directly with you and your wedding suppliers, so that your florals integrate seamlessly with your day to generate
the greatest impact and add value – this includes wedding planner, stylists, cake designers and even photographers are aware of details ahead of time.

For more wedding worries tackled, check out the Jul/Aug24 issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding, free to download at https://www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download

Kristian and Matthew met at a New Year’s Eve party. “I was drawn to Matthew’s awkwardness and his jokes that not everyone would laugh at but I just found funny and innocent,” Kristian shares. “I knew from the beginning that he was special, a unique character that deserved to be loved.” For Matthew, Kristian’s nervousness attracted him, as well as his smiles whenever they were together. “He couldn’t do enough for me. I always wanted to be around him, and his personality was so infectious,” he explains.

Five years into their relationship, the couple went on their annual New Year’s Day trip to Filey Brigg. The weather wasn’t the best and Kristian initially refused to get out of the car due to the rain. He’d also made Matthew invite his brother Adam along, which for reasons that will soon become obvious, he wasn’t thrilled about! The trio walked down to the beach and out to sea on the Brigg, with Kristian having no clue what was about to happen. Here, Adam came into his own as he was able to video what happened next as it unfolded. Noticing the camera, Kristian turned to see what Matthew was up to and found him on one knee asking Kristian to marry him. Matthew did originally have grand plans to fl y the ring in on a drone, but the weather rendered that too risky!

Waterton Park was a place Kristian’s mum grew up around, and her grandad would walk her around the grounds. So, once the couple were engaged she told her son about the venue, and it was love at fi rst sight. “The grand building and picturesque backdrop is what sold it for us,” Kristian explains. “It was the only venue we went to see. There’s nowhere else like it in Yorkshire, it looks like a fairy tale.” They were able to hold the whole day there with exclusive-use of the island, and guests adored the location and scenery. Luckily, the venue’s interior design complemented the couple’s chosen navy wedding palette too, so it was meant to be!

That decided they wasted no time in securing their date for 1st September 2023. Join us in the Jul/Aug24 issue of Your Yorkshire Wedding as Kristian shares more of his treasured memories of the happy day... Download it free at www.youryorkshire.wedding/free-download