With 25 years in the wedding dress business we find we have supplied a bride with her dress, her daughter with her Communion dress, Prom dress and then her Bridal gown, coming full circle. It’s a  privilege to know we are providing a great service.  Wedding Dresses may have changed in style over the last 25 years from big sleeves, big bows, and flouncy skirts to strapless bodices, fine embroidery, beautiful beading, and delicate fabrics, lots of asymmetrical styles that fit and flatter the figure. But the expectation of brides remains the same.

•  Top of the list – Value for money especially in today’s climate.
•  Choice, a collection of the very latest in bridal wear, from award winning designers.
•  Friendly, professional and dedicated staff.
•  In house alteration service for that perfect fit.
•  Comfortable atmosphere to browse the collection.
•  Your gown pressed ready to wear.

Now for the mums this year we have introduced a collection of outfits for the mothers of the bride/groom available in a range of colours and sizes, and to complement,  a collection of fascinator’s colour matched to suit, you can view some of the outfits on www.bridesofleigh.co.uk click on occasion wear, or you are welcome to call in to view.

With 25 years under our belt l think we can safely say we have some ideas of the do’s and don’ts when buying your Bridal wear.

• Do try to choose at least 8 months prior to your wedding. You do not want to be panicking 4 weeks before your wedding because the dress hasn’t’ arrived. Although ordering from a reputable shop you will be assured of delivery.
• Do go to the shop that is nearest to your home first or one that has been recommended to you, most shops have very similar styles.
•  Do feel comfortable in the surroundings. A 40 mile round trip might seem a nice day out but going back for fittings 2 or 3 times when you are running out of days  is going to tax your nerves.
• Do choose who you take with you carefully, one person who knows you well is far better than half a dozen friends and relatives all giving their opinions, the only person to know which dress is right is the bride herself, it can be very confusing.
• Don’t make six appointments in one day, by the time you get to shop 4 you will be sick of looking and all dresses will start to look the same, and there is nothing more off putting to a sales assistant than be told oh l’m only looking l’ve got another 4 appointments to go to. After all we are here to sell you your dream dress.
• Don’t leave your deposit if you are not 100% sure, once ordered you will not be able to change your mind, so sleep on it. If you are tired from trying on too many gowns, make another appointment to go back and retry to make absolutely sure you are happy. All we as retailers want is a happy bride who will recommend us to their family and friends. 
• Don’t think that ordering from the least expensive is going to be the best option, there are probably hidden cost. How much are alterations!  Have you to travel to get to the seamstress? What price  are underskirts? Do you have to pay to have your gown pressed?
• Do try to buy your bridesmaid dresses from the same shop, and you’ll probably get discount.
• Don’t buy your gown from a shop that is not a stockist of the one you may have seen.

Prom gowns have become a must have these last few years and to keep up with the trends we at Brides of Leigh have a collection to satisfy every girls dream, and hopefully mums pocket, with gowns from soft and slinky to the big tulle ball gown and short little numbers to thrill, also suitable for that special night out. www.apromgown.co.uk

One last thing,  be very careful  of buying on the internet. We have over the last few years had girls who thought they were buying gowns by genuine designers only to be sold cheap inferior copies with no redress once ordered.

The thing to remember like anything else if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

 Words by Susan Grundy – Brides of Leigh wedding dresses

This award wining family run business headed by Maria has been established this August for 25 years here in Salford, so to celebrate they have had a full refurbishment from the Ladies dept up-to the menswear department,even the loo has been  ”glamourised” the overall result is fantastic, so now all their brides can not only experience service second to none, but enjoy the luxuriouse surroundings of their V.I.P. private rooms when choosing their special gown.

The Confetti box is a member of The British Bridal Association and The federation of small businesses which means when a bride and groom choose The Confetti Box Bridal Centre for their attire they are with the best of the best.

Diva Couture is the sister store of Confetti Box Bridal Centre and it is where the bridesmaids and the mothers of the bride and groom can select their outfits in a fully air-conditioned beautifully decorated store.

Diva is on three floors full of fantastic choices, the ground floor is full of currant styles for both mums and bridesmaids, the second floor is full of the  previous seasons dresses, all are half price and the third floor is for their prom-wear.

The Confetti box of Manchester,has the most beautiful collection of gowns from around the world,with top designers such as  MAGGIE SOTTERO, SOTTERO/MIDGLY AND ELLIS and ROLAND JOYCE.  New to The Confetti Box this season is Kay Mason they specilalize in the new style lace gowns.

Holidays and Honeymoons

At People to Places we understand how much time and effort goes into planning a wedding, trying to plan a honeymoon as well may send those stress levels through the roof!  So why not leave it all to us to? 

We’ll ensure everything is taken care of.  From selecting the perfect holiday spot, to sending your luggage on ahead.  We deal in only the world’s most exclusive ‘A List’ destinations, giving us plenty of options to select the perfect honeymoon spot for you. 

What’s more, we can tailor your entire trip, whether you want to be at the centre of the bustling city or hidden away in your own little haven on a private island.  Whatever it is you’re after, no is not an option as at People to Places pride ourselves on making the impossible possible.

Honeymoons by People to Places – “We Make The Impossible Possible” 

www.ptpuk.biz 

31a Hale Rd 
Hale 
Cheshire 
WA14 2EY 

Work: 0161 637 22 63 
Mobile: +44 7881 942 404 

 by Penny Mac, professional vocalist & musician & finalist in the NW wedding awards 2011.

Easy answer…..”Music that you like & that has meaning to you both!”

However, it isn’t as simple as that is it?!….

Civil – religious music is not allowed for civil ceremonies. I have however, managed to do a secular song with one mention of God in it & changed it to “love”. The song still made sense, the registrars were happy and the bride got the song she really wanted!

Generally though, it’s best to avoid the whole issue. There are a lot of fabulous songs, instrumentals and classical works that are secular to choose from. If you haven’t got an “our song” then listen to the words and see if they fit your feelings for each other. 

A friend of mine always joked she’d walk down the aisle to “Take A Chance On Me”  and I’m sure some humour is tempting in such a formal setting but it’s probably best to save that til later!

Church – in my experience it really depends on the priest or minister so it’s best to check with yours first. Some will insist on entirely religious music,  but most are fine with a mixture. It’s all about the words really – “shake your booty “ might not seem like such a good idea when you’re walking down the aisle and the inlaws are glaring at you!

The format I work with is as follows:

1. 10-15 minutes of incidental music when guests are ushered in. It gives them something to listen to and watch whilst waiting for the ceremony to begin.
2. Processional – make sure , if there is a long introduction to the piece, that the bride enters only once it has got going. Also bear in mind that you won’t get to hear much of the piece because you will be in place and ready to start after about 16 bars of music.  
3. 2 songs/ pieces for register signing. A good time to have some really romantic songs.
4. Recessional.

If you’re worried about how long the music should be – then have a word with your performer. I always offer to edit the length to the bride and groom’s requirements but trying to keep it with musical sense. 

Please contact me if you have any queries you think I can help you with but for now – I hope you’ve enjoyed my blog on wedding ceremony music. Best wishes, Penny Mac

www.pennymac.com

www.weddingsingercheshire.com

Wedding music by Penny Mac

 11am – 4pm

Plas Rhianfa, Beaumaris Road, Glyngarth, MenaiBridge, Anglesey, LL59 5NS

The Plas Rhianfa wedding fayre will have over 30 exhibitors with lots to try and many discounts available for services booked on the day. Free entry with a complimentary drink on arrival. Garden and House tours throughout the day along with a fashion show.

Contact annar@clarenco.com

Tel: 07803 625 023

Directions from the A55:

• Leave the A55 at junction 8A and at the T-junction turn right onto the A5
• Continue down the hill passing straight over at the roundabout and into the centre of Menai Bridge.
• Turn left onto the High Street which becomes Ffordd Cadnant.
• Drive for just under 1½ miles where Plas Rhianfa will be seen on the right hand side.

Simply answer the following question.

On her website what 3 words does Penny Mac sing in song demo no 3 at 00.40 seconds if the audio clip?

A. Always forever

B. I love you

C. Near or far

To find the answer visit – www.pennymac.com

Competition Rules:

The winner will be the first correct entry drawn after the closing date. No correspondence will be entered into by Penny Mac or County Brides Ltd. The prize detailed above has been offered in good faith but is subject to availability. The prize is non transferable and no cash alternative is provided. All employees of Penny Mac and their families are disqualified from entering. If the entry is illegible, defaced or not in accordance with the requirements stated, it will be discounted. The winner must agree to take part in any advertising required. The prize will be drawn on 30.04.12 and must be taken by 30.03.13. The winner will be notified as soon as possible thereafter. For postal entries send a letter with name, address, telephone number, email, date of wedding, venue and the answer to the question to County Brides Ltd, 11 Longton Avenue, Lowton, Cheshire, WA3 2RP

The Deanwater Hotel

 12pm – 4pm

 Wilmslow Road, Woodford, Cheshire, SK7 1RJ

Back by popular demand  The Deanwater Hotel wedding fayre and the last show of the year in the Cheshire area.

Complimentary copy of the County Brides magazine. FREE entrance and free parking.

Two excellent catwalk shows.

Over 30 exhibitors including wedding dresses, wedding cars, wedding flowers, wedding stationery, wedding entertainment plus many more,  to give you advice for your special day.

The Deanwater Hotel is the perfect venue for your special day. We offer a unique setting, coupled with 40 years experience from a dedicated team, that are there to assist you every step of the way, from your initial enquiry to the day itself. Our attention to detail is paramount and we pride ourselves in ensuring high standards of hospitality. To make your day, one both you and your guests will remember and treasure forever.

The Deanwater Hotel suites, the Balmoral and the Gold, are both elegantly decorated with access to stunning landscaped gardens, providing ideal surroundings for your photographs and can accommodate from 10 to 300 guests, dependent on your catering requirements

Civil Ceremonies

The Deanwater Hotel is a licensed wedding venue, The Deanwater Hotel is able to offer the option of a Civil Marriage or Civil Partnership and we would be happy to advise on arrangements.

Renewal of Vows

A loving way to share with family and friends, an informal service to renew your vows. Whether you’ve just got married abroad and wish to renew your vows with those that couldn’t be with you or you wish to renew your commitment to each other after several years together. The Deanwater is the ideal venue for either a small intimate gathering or a large magical celebration.

To download The Deanwater Hotel wedding brochure click here

£3.00 Entrance fee including 2 hours free parking.
Over 50 exhibitors with fantastic advice and ideas for your dream day.
Free county Brides magazines.

The Concorde wedding show will open its doors at 12pm and will close at 4pm.

The day of your dreams can be such a daunting task with so much to think about and do.

To help ensure your wedding day dreams come true we bring you the amazing Concorde Wedding show.

You’ll find everything you need for your special day, wedding cakes, wedding cars. wedding stationery, wedding flowers, wedding photography and things you haven’t even thought of yet.

The show will bring together a mix of leading wedding experts from the Northwest to help you make those improtant decisions.

You’ll discover all that is new for this wedding season in just one day and under one roof.

The show will be topped off with all the latest in bridal fashions, mother of the bride and menswear.

Visit the Concorde Wedding Show and let us help make that wedding day dream become a reality.

 12pm – 4pm

Chester Road, Daresbury, Warrington, WA4 4BB

The Daresbury Park Hotel wedding fayre with two fabulous catwalk shows,showcasing wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, mother of the bride outfits and menswear.
Over 30 of the Northwest’s leading wedding suppliersincluding wedding dresses, mother of the bride, menswear, wedding cars, wedding entertainment, wedding flowers, wedding gifts, on hand to give you advice.
Free entrance.
Free County Brides magazine
Excellent entertainment.

Download the Daresbury park wedding brochure

Not everyone wants a classically styled venue for their big day, which makes Daresbury Park’s uniquely modern architecture the perfect backdrop for something exceptionally different.

But because you prefer a modern setting as opposed to a traditional one, doesn’t mean you have to abandon all sense of fantasy. After all, nearby Daresbury Village was where a certain Lewis Carroll, the author of ‘Alice in Wonderland’. So let your imagination run wild and turn a special occasion into a truly original event most people only dream of.

Licensed for Civil Ceremonies

• 189 en suite bedrooms marrying unique interior design with exceptional comfort, including 6 luxury suites
• Capacity for events of up to 300 guests for seated wedding reception
• Bespoke menu planning service available
• Special Accommodation rates for all your guests
• Leisure Facilities including swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room and gym

Wedding Packages

We know that this is an exciting time but we appreciate that the actual planning of your special day can be rather daunting. We want to let you know that we are here to help you every step of the way. For further details of our Rose, Lily and Orchid Wedding Packages, please refer to the Wedding Pack

Directions:

By Car:

Daresbury Park is approximately 400m from the M56 motorway, junction 11. At junction 11 take the Daresbury Park exit off the roundabout, then second exit off the next roundabout. The hotel is then the second turning on the right.

By Train:

Runcorn Intercity – 6 miles, Warrington Central – 6 miles, Warrington Bank Quay – 5 miles

12pm – 4pm

1 Stadium Way, Eccles, M30 7EY

Wedding fayre at the salford city stadium,  which is also the new home of Salford Reds Rugby Club
Attending on the day will be a host of top class suppliers to the wedding industry
Bridal catwalk shows at 1pm and 3pm exhibitors include, Bridal Wear, Menswear, Cakes, Stationary, Make-up, Flowers, Doves, Jewellers, DJ’s, live Bands, String Quartet and Wedding Cars.

The experienced events team will be on hand at the Salford city stadium wedding fayre to assist with all of your planning needs to ensure your special day, whatever the occasion, runs seamlessly. You will be assured of individual attention and the highest quality service to create an unforgettable day.

Wedding and civil partnership ceremonies

Thank you for your interest in Salford City Stadium for your special day. We understand that your ceremony is one of the most important days of your life and our experienced and professional team are dedicated to making sure you will have an event to remember.

We have a choice of beautiful rooms available to host your ceremony, depending upon guest numbers and your specific requirements. To check availability or book the registrar please call the Salford Register Office directly on 0161 909 6501. Local authority fees will apply.

Please note, a room hire charge of £275.00 exc. VAT will apply to all civil ceremonies held at the Salford City Stadium.

Wedding and celebration event packages

All of our packages are tailored to individual needs and budgets. We can help make your event really special. Our catering is of the highest quality, whether you dream of a silver service meal or a more informal buffet. Sample menus are available.

As standard, all of our packages will include:

• White table linen and napkins (additional colours can be provided on request)
• Dedicated event planner
• Event manager & Toastmaster
• Cash or account bar until 1am
• Cake knife if required
• Easel for the table plan
• FREE car parking
• Exclusive rates at partner hotels

Multicultural Celebrations

We embrace multiculturalism and welcome all faiths to the Salford City Stadium. Please contact our events team for details of all packages and how we can meet your own personal needs.

Contact our Events Team for further details: