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Celebrating 3 years of Hanami Dream!

Celebrating 3 years of Hanami Dream!

What a day for celebration the fourth of July is:  Independence Day, Alice Day and today is the 3rd birthday of Hanami Dream weddings and special occasions!

Yes, today marks three years since I published my first styled photo shoot under the umbrella of Hanami Dream. After that Alice in Wonderland shoot, came the Wizard of Oz, followed by a Wind in the Willows wedding. Now, I’m just about to promote my latest shoot, a modern Edwardian Secret Garden themed wedding. I can’t wait to share the images soon!

From my first tweet in 2014, to a steadily increasing readership (and social media following) with around 1,200 unique page views a month on average. Plus a combined social media network of over 4,000 followers and ongoing promotion and networking means this is ever growing.

It’s crazy to think how many things have evolved over the past three years; now 209 blog posts later and I’ve been a finalist in the UK Blog Awards two years running, a finalist in the West Oxfordshire Business Awards, won mood board competitions, launched #UKWedLunch, won accolades such as #QueenOf Wedding Inspiration by The Royal Connection, the #SmartSocial award from Marketme, #BrightPig’s Business of the Week and I was also picked by Jacqueline Gold CBE to be a WOW Winner.

Personally in the last 3 years, I’ve also had another 2 babies, managed our building project and continued to study with UKAWEP. I was proud to be picked as Student of the month and the course has (and continues) to open my eyes up to a whole world of weddings beyond just wedding planning.

My focus has changed this year and I’m concentrating on making the blog work commercially as well as providing inspiration to brides and grooms in the Cotswolds. This feels like a fantastic evolution, which really excites me and fits in with my current family life, plus combines my experience within the scope of the wedding industry.

I look forward to working with more local wedding professionals, services and venues #keepitlocal. And I can’t wait to produce more styled photo shoots and have more opportunities to collaborate with local suppliers.

Please get in touch if you’d like to advertise on the blog, submit your own wedding details, would like to collaborate on a shoot, write a guest post or need some marketing advice and guidance. Together we can build the local wedding industry and inspire brides and grooms for their special day.

Happy birthday to Hanami Dream – definitely time for cake now! ‬

Hanami Dream is a wonderful wedding service:
marketing consultant, blogger and venue stylist;
plus inspiration for couples to start wedded bliss!

To have and hold,
In the Oxfordshire Cotswolds?
Then you should be heading
To my blog about weddings!
www.hanamidream.co.uk

MODELS WANTED: modern Edwardian styled bridal shoot

MODELS WANTED: modern Edwardian styled bridal shoot

Hanami Dream are looking for ‘the boy and girl next door’ type models for a modern Edwardian styled wedding shoot with a literature theme. The shoot will take place at a beautiful venue in Witney, Oxfordshire this May half term.

  • Female – think Lady Mary Crawley in Downtown Abbey, approximately 20-30 years old, 170 cms tall or less, size 10-14
  • Male – think Harry Styles with his new short hair in the Dunkirk movie, approximately 25-35 years old, around 175 cms tall, 40” chest, 32” waist

The shoot will be approximately 2-3 hours in the afternoon of Wednesday 31st May (weather permitting) and will provide some fantastic lifestyle shots for your portfolio (it’s also great as an engagement shoot or brilliant practice being in front of a camera before your big day).

One fitting prior to the date may be necessary. Own transport is required to Witney, OX28 3LA.

This project is supporting and showcasing local, independent wedding businesses – everyone provides their services and products for free and in return gets some wonderful lifestyle shots to use at a later date. This is a collaboration of like minded people that create great things together though don’t have the budgets to produce this kind of work if they all worked independently. See the images from Hanami Dream’s last styled bridal shoot.

 

If you’re available and would like to be involved in this fantastic styled bridal shoot then please email Hanami Dream

  • by Friday 19th May 2017
  • on info@www.hanamidream.co.uk
  • including a quick intro, your stats, a contact number and 2 images of yourself (1 x face shoot, 1 x full length)

Inspiration: English country garden wedding

Inspiration: English country garden wedding

Last October, Cogges Manor Farm hosted their first Wedding Open Day to showcase their wonderful barns and garden along with some highly talented, local suppliers who specialise in offering unique, bespoke and professional wedding services.

Cogges Manor Farm is nestled in the lovely market town of Witney and offers two stunning seventeenth century barns for weddings. They are a perfect blank canvas where you can add loads of personalised details to make your special day complete.

At their Open Day, the Wheat Barn was dressed for an English country garden wedding, complete with beautiful pale pink accents and bird details, a hay bale aisle and framed ceremony focal point.

Photography by Hanami Dream

The barn was adorned with swashes of fairy lights (from Oakwood Events) across the beams giving the barn a warm romantic atmosphere.

Photography by Ric Mellis

The highly talented Paper Tree Design hung an impressive flower decorated heart (made from Tyvek) under the huge gilded frame, acting as a ceremony alter for the day. Wild rose paper garlands (printed with a pink gradient and threaded on to organza ribbon) hung behind the frame and were highlighted against the huge pink barn doors.

Photography by Paper Tree Design

A bird cage inspired seating plan was proudly displayed on a mirror, which reflected the soft light and guided people further in to the barn.

Photography by Paper Tree Design

Tables were decorated by Larkrise Flowers with an abundance of delicate and charming flowers, some sourced from the venue’s own walled garden, along with wheat (providing a nod to the venue’s wheat barn heritage).

Flowers on the top table (displayed in a terracotta urn) included:

  • Rosa “Pink Avalanche”
  • Rosa “Lazise”
  • Eustoma “Arena Pink”
  • Astrantia roma
  • Sedum spectabile
  • Eucalyptus nicholii – foliage
  • Euonymus – foliage
  • Asparagus fern – foliage

There were also English hydrangea heads in aged terracotta pots and echeveria secunda glauca in white pots, as well as plants of mixed herbs (rosemary, oregano, marjoram, thyme) and bellis perennis (daisies) in more terracotta pots.

The addition of succulents brought this tablescape bang up to date with mixed sempervivens under glass domes, plus mixed baby gourds, birch slices, glass storm lanterns and glass tea light holders making the table feel extremely plentiful.

In front of the top table ran a stunning floor display of pink cactus dahlias, verbena bonariensis, hedera foliage, wheat, sedum spectabile, and 3 types of grasses (lagurus ovatus, panicum, and setaria).

Photography by Ric Mellis

Stationery from Paper Tree Design complimented the stunning floral displays. From their Tree of Hearts wedding stationery range, this included:

  • Robin name card –  tent cards with pop out robins
  • Menu card – individual menus printed on Harvest Colorplan card-stock
  • Wild roses with tie on name cards – hand made paper wild roses with luggage tag style name cards tied on with natural bakers twine
  • Wild rose heads – small handmade paper wild rose heads used to decorate the tablescape
  • Robin & Wildflower table numbers – made from off white card and mounted on to sticks and decorated with bakers twine (these numbers can also be made for use with number stands or freestanding)
  • Robin & Wild Flower top table sign – made from off white card and mounted on to a stick and decorated with bakers twine (this can also be made for use with number stands or freestanding)

Photography by Hanami Dream

Vintage props were provided by Mabel and Rose including old suitcases, ladders, milk churns and barrels.

Accompanying food followed the rustic English country garden vibe, consisting of Yorkshire pudding and roast beef canapés, a ‘cheese’ cake and ice creams provided by Abigail’s Kitchen, Wates & Co Delicatessen and Mag’s & Tim’s Ice Cream Trike, respectively.

The whole effect gave an example of one direction you could take to make this venue your own – a real abundance of local, natural products with a feeling of bringing the outside inside.

Venue | Cogges Manor Farm | Witney, Oxfordshire | http://www.cogges.org.uk/
Photography | Ric Mellis
Catering, cutlery & crockery | Abigail’s Kitchen | 07771616415 | abipritcher@yahoo.com
‘Cheese’ cake | Wates & Co Delicatessen | https://www.facebook.com/Wates-Co-Delicatessen-1668555833361530/
Flowers | Lark Rise Flowers | http://larkriseflowers.com
Hay bales | sourced by venue
Ice cream | Mag’s & Tim’s Ice Cream Trike | https://www.facebook.com/magsxtimsicecreamtrike
Lighting | Oakwood Events | http://www.oakwoodevents.co.uk/
Prop hire | Mabel & Rose | http://www.mabelandrose.com/vintage-hire/
Stationery | Paper Tree Design | https://www.papertreedesign.co.uk/

Wedding Open Day of Cogges Manor Farm barns in Witney

By the way – get Sunday 17th September in your diary. It is this year’s Wedding Open Day at Cogges. So go along to see this venue in all it’s glory or contact them in the meantime for an earlier look round.

Inspiration: vintage literary afternoon tea wedding

Inspiration: vintage literary afternoon tea wedding

A beautiful Saturday in April 2015 saw the wedding of Erica and Ruby at Cogges Manor Farm.

Cogges Manor Farm is nestled in the lovely market town of Witney and offers two stunning seventeenth century barns for weddings. They were a perfect blank canvas to add loads of personalised details to the day with vintage books, afternoon tea, lots of handmade touches and accents of yellow. This wonderful vintage literary wedding was captured by a number of professional photographers (who are also close friends of the couple) who each had a different section to cover throughout the day.

The couple hadn’t heard about this wonderful venue until Erica’s sister sent them a link to Cogges’s website. They instantly fell in love with the barns when they went to see them and booked their wedding date on the spot! And from there, they produced a beautiful, creative, DIY budget rustic barn wedding. It came complete with hay bales, bunting (kindly loaned from friends & family) and the Cogges chickens running around.

Most things were either handmade, collected or sourced by the couple or their family and friends. They even held a craft session at a local pub and invited their friends and family to stamp out thousands of cat and tea pot shaped confetti from old books. They hand made photo bunting from photographs of themselves over the 5 years they’d been together, as well as hand made centrepieces of brown ale bottles (with brown string wrapped around the necks adorned with buttons), and beautiful handmade paper flowers (again from old book pages) that they held as alternative bouquets too.

The brides both made a great entrance in to the barn. Not only were their outfits stunning, with Erica’s wedding outfit (of trousers & waistcoat) handmade from design to finished garment by the amazing local Oxfordshire wedding dressmaker, Geraldine Jarell of Oxford Frocks. But they also both walked into the barn from opposite large barn doors. They were escorted by their respective fathers and walked a mesmerising figure of 8 around their 100 guests seated on hay bales. The couple met in the middle of the barn, surrounded by all their friends and family, and had an enchanting ceremony complete with the lighting of a candle.

There were lots of personal touches to decorate the barn, such as a stack of Beatrix Potter books that Erica was given as a child by her aunt (who sadly couldn’t make it from Canada on the day). There was also an old gramophone that belongs to Ruby’s dad which played records of Eva Cassidy and the like during the reception drinks in the walled garden.

Photography by Tom Weller

Photography by Tom Weller

Afterwards, the guests were treated with a ‘don’t judge a book by it’s cover’ themed wedding favour. As they came back in to the barn, they helped themselves to a surprise book. These were a job lot of paperback books bought from eBay and each wrapped in a brown paper parcel and stacked on a table. This gave people something to chat about at their tables before and during their afternoon tea.  Many people told the couple after the wedding that the book they chose was perfect for them!

Afternoon tea has featured in this couple’s story for a while as Erica proposed to Ruby at Jane’s Enchanted Tea Garden in Oxfordshire on 29th March 2014 (the day that gay marriage was legalised). So it is fitting that afternoon tea was also the theme of their wedding day, utilising vintage mismatched china that they had collected over a year. They visited numerous charity shops and car boot sales accumulating enough tea sets to host afternoon tea for 100 guests. The afternoon tea was served inside the Wheat Barn on rustic picnic benches (Ruby wanted to avoid white table cloths at all costs!) And now all of this china is used to serve loose leaf teas and hot chocolate in their own pottery cafe, Busy Brush Café in Wallingford. Delicious sandwiches, scones and cakes accompanied their afternoon tea.

Guests were encouraged to leave a finger print on an alternative guest book tree picture, plus write a personal message to the couple on vintage postcards left in a vintage suitcase.

A beautiful ‘Thank You Tree’ was displayed in the barn with luggage tags carrying messages to thank family & friends that had helped them – from solo singing during the ceremony, to loaning fairy lights that made the barns twinkle, to taking photos at the wedding, the endless search for China teapots etc. They borrowed the tree itself from their friend Anita who owns Country Collections shop in Wheatley.

In the evening, the guests were spoilt with some of the ‘best jacket potatoes you’ve ever tasted’, cooked in an old Victorian Oven out on the veranda. Plus, the wedding cake was actually a 1.5m high cake stand stacked full of jars of retro sweets that people could nibble on throughout the evening.

Then came a brilliant spectacle as the couple’s first dance was a flash mob dance where Erica and Ruby started dancing alone to Happy by Pharrel Williams. Then 5 friends, one by one, jumped into a well learnt dance routine. Mid way through the song lots of other guests got up and joined in too. What a wonderful way to take the pressure off everyone looking at the couple and so much fun!

After this the happy couple didn’t leave the dance floor and enjoyed the songs of a local Witney band, Vinyl Daze, well into the night.

This vintage literary afternoon tea wedding proves that with some personal touches, great friends, time and creativity, a beautiful barn wedding can be produced without breaking the bank.

Venue | Cogges Manor Farm | Witney, Oxfordshire | www.cogges.org.uk
Photography | Nick Bradbury | Mark Carroll | Alan Glasspool | Thomas Phillips | Robin Smith | Tom Weller
Bride’s outfit | trousers & waistcoat | made by Geraldine Jarell | Oxford Frocks
Flowers | handmade
Hay bales | provided by venue
Thank you tree | Country Collections , Wheatley | https://www.facebook.com/Country-Collections-762549283781067
Band | Vinyl Daze | www.vinyldaze.co.uk

Photography by Thomas Phillips

Photography by Thomas Phillips

“She…threw passion and spark into every aspect of the shoot!”

“She…threw passion and spark into every aspect of the shoot!”


“I loved every moment of working with Hanami Dream, [with] Nicola’s creativity mixed with her laid back approach to the styled shoot at the Old Swan and Minster Mill.

She made me feel as though ‘no’ was never an answer and threw passion and spark into every aspect of the shoot!

I am really proud of what we achieved in such a short space of time and look forward to seeing what the future brings for Hanami Dream.”

Hannah, The Old Swan & Minster Mill – January 2017

Trend predictions for weddings in 2017

Trend predictions for weddings in 2017

Weddings are a wonderful celebration of love and marriage. They can blend together families, traditions, cultures, creativity and lots of personal touches. Whether a religious, civil or humanist ceremony, a traditional or themed reception, these special days are about what is important to each individual couple.

Despite some couples’ originality, there are always trends that appear and popular themes that epitomise a particular era (think puff ball sleeves from the eighties). Sometimes fashion, films, television programmes, interior design, celebrity weddings and even current affairs influence these trends. Of course, there are some timeless and classic themes that never seem to go out of favour like a ‘romantic’ theme and personalisation is still key at the moment.

So what does 2017 hold for us?

Clothing

Bridal wear is really seeing a big shift in trends to provide new, innovative and unusual styles to make sure the bride makes a statement and is different to any other on her big day. Fashion trends that are appearing on the catwalks (that will surely influence weddings next year) include:

  • Tailored separates including trousers or culottes, as well as shirts
  • Athletic looking clothing but in evening wear material
  • Alternative necklines to strapless such as halters, plunging and embellished necklines
  • Varying lengths, cuts and material to provide short, sheer or cutouts
  • Covering up the shoulders with long sleeves, boleros, lace or capes
  • Plain veils
  • Unusual accessories like ribbon hair bands, feather handbags and flat shoes
  • Adornments on dresses such as bows, peplums, ruffles and 3D flowers
  • Coloured & floral patterned dresses including various pastel shades and even black

 

Culture

The world of films and tv always influences trends and 2017 looks set to be a year of blockbusters to choose from such as:

  • Comic book inspiration courtesy of Logan, Transformers, Lego Batman, Kong: Skull Island, Spider-Man and Wonder Woman
  • Romantic fairy tales with Beauty & the Beast
  • Futurist and space trends with releases of Blade runner 2049 and Star Wars 8
  • Medieval individuality along with King Arthur: Legend of the Sword
  • Beach and nautical themes thanks to Baywatch (plus Pamela Anderson’s 50th birthday) and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales
  • Car racing, petrol head and Route 66 inspiration with Fast 8 and Cars 3
  • 1920s Kazbar glamour with Murder on the Orient Express
  • Fun themes spinning off from the Emoji Movie

And film and video will become more prevalent at weddings with more couples choosing 360 videos, virtual reality experiences and drones to capture their big day.

 

Celebrities

As well as the wonders of Pinterest, couples are inspired by seeing others doing something first. The affect of the royal wedding in 2011 is still apparent now as couples are choosing to have trees inside at their weddings. So it’s no surprise that details from celebrity weddings will influence wedding trends. Here are some famous engaged couples that could make it up the aisle in 2017 and their special days will be ones to watch:

  • Pippa Middleton & James Matthews – I can’t wait to see how she tops her infamous bridesmaid dress and will Kate repay the favour?
  • Tom Daly & Dustin Lance Black – will it be a swimwear only wedding like Tom has joked?
  • Liv Tyler & Dave Gardner for a sports, fashion or rock and roll theme
  • Emma Bunton & Jade Jones – though Baby Spice may need some help to start organising it as they’ve been engaged since 2010!
  • Prince Harry & Meghan Markle – okay they’re not actually engaged yet but I can’t wait to see this that wedding day!
  • Not exactly a celebrity (but to me she is a real star!) and that’s my mad Nan (self titled!) It’s so wonderful to see her so happy again and courting a lovely young man. Whilst we obviously miss Grampy, it would be lovely to see my Nan get hitched again. (Plus my little ones would make such cute attendants too!) There’s definitely a trend to seeing grandmothers as bridesmaids but I’d like to see mine as a bride next year.

 

Colour and styling

So much influences our daily lives which in turn spills over to the world of weddings including decorative elements from different arenas such as interior design, architecture, graphic design, lighting, furniture and textiles.

One part that overarches these elements is the importance of colour.

  • The Pantone® Colour of the Year always plays a big part in influencing popular colours and I don’t think next year will be any exception. In 2017, the colour of the year is a yellowy green called Greenery. Pantone are citing it as ‘nature’s neutral’ [take a look at my report about the colour of the year] and I’m already a little bit in love with this colour! It will work well teamed with vibrant colours or partnered with pure white for a classic look. Here’s my take on the other colours to look out for in spring/summer 2017.
  • Foliage – the colour of the year will also sit nicely alongside trends for more foliage and ‘bringing the garden inside’.
  • Flowers – if you do go for flowers then they will need to make a statement and ‘go big or go home’ with paper florals emerging as an ecological and lasting alternative, new ways to wear flowers such as corsages, floral rings, anklets and chockers, as well as larger and looser bouquets
  • Textures – be prepared for macramé in boho Coachella inspired themes, plus crushed velvet and total-coverage sequins for more luxurious styles
  • Metallic – I’m so pleased that the metallic trend seems to be still going strong and isn’t showing any signs of tiring just yet. Rose, bronze, copper and gold – on their own, mixed together or used alongside white.
  • Gem stones – this is a stunning and really striking trend using rocks lined with crystals (agate or hollow geodes) for a contemporary feel. As well as seeing marble coming back into the limelight.
  • Transparent – strip it back by pairing nude and neutral colours alongside Perspex chairs, tables, menus and signage for a modern style
  • Mix and match – pretty much anything goes and don’t be afraid to mix up all elements of the decor such as the colours, textures, metals and furniture. Not sure which colour to pick – well put them all together.

 

Catering

Family style serving is still a great way to share the wedding reception which works so well on long, large banquet tables lining the room.

Other food and drink highlights to support emerging tends include:

  • Cakes – marbling icing, amazing geode cut out and crystal detailing and even wedding cakes with image projections on them
  • Unusual catering vans, dessert tables and interactive stations st the reception – think oyster shuck trucks, gin bars and make your own pudding
  • Food for favours – give you guests something they can take away and enjoy at home and remember the day like coffee beans, loose leaf tea or alcohol miniatures for favours
  • Food walls – hang donuts (for example) to make edible decor which could even double as escort cards too! Delicious!
  • Personalised cocktails – have your own cocktails created and served as the ‘house’ aperitif instead of Pimms or Buck’s Fizz when guests arrive. Or how about two different personal cocktails to represent the different tastes of the couple.

Current affairs

You may be living and breathing your wedding and everything else in the world is taking a back seat. However, things are still going on around you and some national, local and annual events may have an impact on your guests involvement, availability and enjoyment. Here’s some events that could influence your choice of dates.

In addition, around the world, some momentous celebrations could also influence wedding trends.

  • Europe – We will mark 15 years since the launch of the Euro in January. Could thoughts of Brexit mean we embrace all things European whilst we are still part of Europe? Potential costs of some products could go up if/when we do exit Europe such as flowers that are imported so couples may be looking for cheaper alternatives.
  • Then in April, it will be the 40th anniversary since the fall of Saigon. I love the tea ceremonies from this region as part of their weddings celebrations along with the opulent red and gold colours.
  • In August, it will be 40 years since Elvis died. Will this give us another 1970s revival? – think rhinestone jumpsuits!
  • Later in the year, it is the 100th anniversary of the Russian revolution in November. Perhaps this will herald Russian traditions becoming more popular such as week long weddings, a tour of the city to have photographs taken at historical places and wearing wedding crowns in the ceremony. As well as the Russian tradition of seeing which of the newlyweds can grab the biggest handful of bread at the wedding breakfast to see who will be the head of the household.

These are a few of my predictions for wedding trends in 2017. I’d love to hear what you think are going to be popular wedding trends next year. Email me at info@www.hanamidream.co.uk with your predictions. See more of my curation and inspiration on Pinterest.

May I take this opportunity to wish you a very Happy Christmas and all the best for the New Year.

Are you getting married in 2017? Is your wedding going to be following one of these trends? Let me know if you’d like to share the detail shots of your day on my blog to inspire other couples who are wedding planning. If you (and your photographer) are happy, then take a look how to submit your wedding.

Inspiration: autumnal marsala & gold Wind in the Willows wedding

Inspiration: autumnal marsala & gold Wind in the Willows wedding

Set in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside of the Cotswolds, this Wind in the Willows styled bridal shoot is an outdoor, autumnal adventure. Complete with vintage transport alongside a picturesque river, followed by a celebration in a grand hall dressed in marsala and gold, with chalk board and marble design features plus tactile fabrics like tweed, corduroy and suede. Planned and designed by Hanami Dream and wonderfully captured by Farrow Photography.

img_1352It is a true celebration of the beauty of nature and encapsulates the sense of an outdoors adventure as typified by the Wind in the Willows book by Kenneth Grahame. This is a chance to get away from the hectic, crowded city to a stunning and tranquil setting. Mole, Ratty, Toad and Badger would be proud to attend this relaxed bohemian wedding. Bride & groom on bridge | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

The Old Swan and Minster Mill was a perfect location for this wedding where the bride and groom gazed at one another during their wedding ceremony whilst on the love seats under the Temple Garden. This had the amazing backdrop of a splendid willow tree draping it’s branches in to the River Windrush, flowing on it’s way to join the River Thames. Couple under temple garden | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

The couple moored their rowing boat by a disused boat house, explored the peaceful setting with treks down the river, over bridges, carefree on a tree swing and enjoyed a sumptuous, rustic picnic sat on a blanket with their hamper on the riverbank.Bride & groom picnic by boat | Mae Bridal | Keates of Witney | Classic Flowers | The Pretty Cake Company | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

Mr Toad would have approved of the vintage Humber car (from British Classic Car Hire) to experience the open road before entering the Great Hall through a paper floral archway (by Paper Tree Design) to feast on a mouthwatering banquet.

Couple by car | British Classic Car Hire | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

Once inside the happy couple sat in pride of place at the top table, in front of an impressive fireplace with a mantelpiece adorned with swashes of forest green foliage (from Classic Flowers) and fairy lights. The table was luxurious and tactile complete with a suede cream table cloth, copious amounts of marsala coloured candles in gold candlesticks and geometric copper tea light holders (from Talking Tables). Gold beaded charger plates were topped with gold vintage crockery (from Vintage Gold China), marsala coloured silk napkins and a chalk board design menu card (by Paper Tree Design), besides gold vintage cutlery (from Vintage Gold China).

Couple at banquet in grand hall | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

Guests found their places by referencing the chalk board style table plan and name cards (with guest names paying homage to the character names and table were named after chapters from the book by Paper Tree Design) and were given an opulent, marsala marbled soap as their fragrant favour (by Stonesfield Soap Company).

Place setting | Menu by Paper Tree Design | Cutlery & Crockery by Vintage Gold China | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

The top table was swathed in a striking floral table runner with a loose relaxed vibe containing lots of greenery along with burgundy dahlias, flowing amaranthus (mirroring the weeping willow tree outside), ranunculas, hypericum berries, snow berries, skimmia and bombastic roses. These flowers (from Classic Flowers) featured in the remarkable bouquet that the bride cradled, as well as in her loose braided hair (by Lucy Beesley Bridal), her corsage and the groom’s buttonhole. Bouquet by couple next to river | Classic Flowers | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

These florals were beautiful replicated on the cake (by The Pretty Cake Company) which also combined other on trend themes such as marbling, metallic gold lustre, drip effects and a chalkboard tier, which was sympathetic to the stationery and a nod to the author of the book. img_1206

The gorgeous bride braved the cold autumnal weather, with a beautiful smile complete with marsala coloured lipstick (with makeup by Lucy Beesley Bridal) and perfectly fitted the romantic A line wedding gown with lace sleeves, sweeping net train and floral appliqued bodice by Watters (provided by Mae Bridal). She completed her look with a short veil (by Richard Designs) worn low below a delicate hair vine (by Miranda Templeton) and gold coloured Blake shoes (by Benjamin Adams). Bride with bouquet by river | Mae Bridal | Classic Flowers | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

Our handsome, bearded groom suited the countryside surroundings with the dapper tweed jacket and waistcoat, coupled with a checked shirt, marsala bow tie and plush red corduroy trousers that he wore (from Keates of Witney). Groom on swing | Keates of Witney | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

It’s the little details that bring any event to life and this was made possible by the wonderful local suppliers who provided their time, services, venue and products for free. Together we have showcased the amazing talent that our part of the UK has to offer the wedding industry.

Take a look at the fabulous suppliers that were involved in this styled shoot – ‘Keeping it local with suppliers for the Wind in the Willows shoot’

And take a glimpse behind the scenes at the how the theme and designs came to life – Behind the scenes: Wind in the Willows shoot

#keepitlocal

Planning & Design | Hanami Dream | www.hanamidream.co.uk
Location | Old Swan & Minster Mill | www.oldswanminstermill.co.uk
Photographer | Farrow Photography | www.farrowphotography.com
Models | Jess & Henry
Hair & Make up | Lucy Beesley Bridal | www.lucybeesleybridal.co.uk
Bridal dress and accessories | Mae Bridal | http://maebridal.co.uk
Groom clothing | Keates of Witney | www.keatesmenswear.co.uk
Florist | Classic Flowers | www.witneyflorist.co.uk
Cake | The Pretty Cake Company | www.theprettycakecompany.com
Stationery (including paper floral arch) | Paper Tree Design | www.papertreedesign.co.uk
Cutlery & Crockery | Vintage Gold China | www.vintagegoldchina.com
Copper geometric tea lights | Talking Tables | www.talkingtables.co.uk | sourced by Lark Rise Flowers | http://larkriseflowers.com
Favours | Stonesfield Soap Company | www.stonesfieldsoap.com
Transport | British Classic Car Hire | www.britishclassiccarhire.co.uk

Keeping it local with suppliers for the Wind in the Willows shoot

Keeping it local with suppliers for the Wind in the Willows shoot

Set in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside of the Cotswolds, Hanami Dream’s Wind in the Willows styled bridal shoot is an outdoor, autumnal adventure. Complete with vintage transport alongside a picturesque river, followed by a celebration in a grand hall dressed in marsala and gold, with chalk board and marble design features.

Couple at banquet in grand hall | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

It’s the little details that bring any event to life and this was made possible by the wonderful local suppliers who provided their time, services, venue and products for free. Together we have showcased the amazing talent that our part of the UK has to offer the wedding industry.

Thanks to all these wonderful suppliers #keepitlocal


LocationOld Swan & Minster Mill

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An enchanting blend of romantic riverside gardens and stunning wildflower meadows, traditional Cotswold stone buildings, superb fresh local food and outstanding service, the Old Swan & Minster Mill offers the ultimate wedding experience.

Enjoy a timeless atmosphere in this unique rural setting set across 60 acres of idyllic grounds that form a perfect backdrop for your wedding celebrations.

They can host a maximum of 50 guests for your formal ceremony in one of our true historic reception rooms or for the ultimate romantic ceremony why not get married in the riverside setting of the Garden Temple; licenced for outdoor ceremonies. Framed by the weeping willows, creeping roses or in Spring surrounded by thousands of early blooms, it is hard to think of a more bucolic location for your wedding ceremony.

For the celebration wedding breakfast that follows, move on to the Minster Room in the 600 year old, Old Swan. With its oak beamed ceilings and original Cotswold stone fireplace it provides the perfect setting for a relaxed and intimate celebration with family and friends.

The restored Malthouse provides an outstanding location and setting for your evening reception. Alongside the River Windrush and with stunning views of the wildflower meadows and rose gardens, enjoy a night of dancing and merriment in the newly refurbished barn (maximum of 80 guests).

For larger wedding parties, they can accommodate a marquee in our magical gardens.

Couple under temple garden | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

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Hair & Make up – Lucy Beesley Bridal 

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Bespoke wedding hair styling & make up artistry tailored to your individual style
Getting ready | Lucy Beesley Bridal | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

 


 

Bridal dress and accessories – Mae Bridal

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Mae Bridal is a beautiful bridal boutique located in the Oxfordshire town of Witney, just 12 miles west of Oxford. A little haven filled with vintage elegance and timeless collections that will capture the heart of any bride.

Prepare to fall in love all over again in our appointment only designer boutique, with gorgeous gowns from a range of designers, as well as accessories and shoes that will ensure you are styled from head to toe.


Groom clothing – Keates of Witney

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We are situated in the town of Witney on Market Square opposite the Butter Cross, and comprise of three floors, Keates Menswear, Men’s Hire-wear and Blossom Bridal.

We represent a landmark for quality and service and offer formal suits and accessories with a wide range of casual wear to suit all styles, taste, and occasions.

Groom in tweed jacket | Keates of Witney | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.ukfacebook logo@blossombridal.co.uk

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Florist – Classic Flowers

At Classic Flowers, they offer fresh, quirky and innovative ideas for all occasions from Weddings to Funerals or just saying ‘With Love‘. Their fully qualified and talented team of floral designers can help turn your next occasion into a gorgeous floral affair.

Bouquet on plinth | Classic Flowers | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uktwitter-1@WitneyFlorist

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Cake – The Pretty Cake Company

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The Pretty Cake Company offers a friendly, personal and bespoke wedding cake design service to produce breath taking wedding cakes that will be remembered for years to come. Our aim is to produce a wedding cake that is individual to the bride and groom – always focusing on the attention to detail that makes all the difference. We have over 10 years of experience in designing and creating wedding cakes and work closely with numerous prestigious wedding venues in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and The Cotswolds.  We will work with you and take your ideas and inspirations in order to create a truly memorable wedding cake. We pride ourselves on using the finest quality and freshest ingredients available.

Unlike many other cake companies, we now specialise only in wedding cakes, as this is our true passion.  Now we are able to focus on keeping up to date with current bridal trends and ensuring that our clients receive expert advice in the wedding cake field.

Clients are guaranteed a friendly, efficient service where quality is never compromised. Consultations by appointment only. We are based in Minster Lovell, Witney, West Oxfordshire and can deliver to a wide area.

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Stationery (including paper floral arch) – Paper Tree Design

Paper Tree Design | Logo | stationery

Paper Tree Design was created through a love of paper and a desire to produce beautiful and personal stationery and decorations. Thoughtfully designed, we focus on quality and attention to detail to make your stationery truly individual. With a background in Fashion and Textile Design, and 15 years experience in retail buying and product development Suzanne has a wealth of experience to draw on and is passionate about delivering design with little personal touches that reflect the clients loves and interests.

Living in rural Oxfordshire Suzanne cannot help but be inspired by the beauty of the natural world and the changing seasons, and can frequently be found in lanes and hedgerows with her camera and a sketchbook. Specialising in paper cutting, at Paper Tree Design we create your handcrafted wedding stationery to order. Choose to personalise a card from one of our ranges or commission a bespoke design. I am at my best working with your theme and ideas for a truly personal invitation and welcome you to come and have a chat and a cuppa in my Oxfordshire studio to discuss plans for your wedding.

Chalkboard stationery | Paper Tree Design | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uktwitter-1@PaperTreeOxon

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Cutlery & Crockery – Vintage Gold China

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Vintage Gold China is a boutique vintage china and gold cutlery hire company based in Gloucestershire. We specialise in hiring elegant, fine china, bronze candlesticks and genuine vintage gold cutlery. From small tea parties, village hall get-togethers, hen party evenings, showy dinner parties, wedding breakfast or celebrating your golden wedding anniversary, Vintage Gold China will help you create the perfect, glamourous vintage setting.

With access to our beautiful collection of elegant tableware consisting of quality vintage English fine bone china, French porcelain, vintage bronze gold cutlery, Victorian style glass dessert plates, bronze and glass candlesticks and many styles of votive – you will find all the tableware accessories you need to tastefully style your event. We can also supply luxury table linens from our sister company, Table to Dine For.

We supply to events in the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Avon and Wiltshire areas.  For weddings, parties and events, contact us for your tailored quote.

Place setting | Menu by Paper Tree Design | Cutlery & Crockery by Vintage Gold China | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

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Copper geometric tea light holders – Talking Tables

Talking Tables logo

Essential Party supplies for any Occasion

Geo Copper Tea Light Holders | Talking Tables | sourced by Larkrise Flowers | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk

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Copper geometric tea light holders – sourced by Lark Rise Flowers

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Lark Rise Flowers, are professionally qualified florists, based in the rolling countryside of North Oxfordshire. They provide flowers for weddings and events throughout Oxon, Bucks, Northants, and beyond.

Stock is sourced from the major flower markets, and if seasonally available from an expanding group of British growers. The Eco commitment continues with a policy of recycling waste packaging and surplus green material.

Sandra, the Proprietor, is happy to meet with you for personal consultations and site visits. She will work with your brief, budget, or theme, to create a unique day for you both.

The Lark Rise team have a wealth of experience, having provided many wedding flowers, and decorated most of the major wedding venues in the area. They take pride and care in their work, from the simplest buttonhole through to beautiful bridal bouquets and venue décor.

“Surrounded by nature – working with nature”


Favours – Stonesfield Soap Company

Stonesfield Soap Company logo

Stonesfield Soap Company is a small, family-run business based in in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds. It started off as a hobby, following on from our daughter’s 9th birthday party (a ‘spa science’ party, making bath fizzies, melt & pour soap etc), and as a concerned response to the huge number of unnecessary chemicals found in toiletries today. Since then, it has grown into a business driven by a passion for the manufacture of natural, artisan cold-process soap with an emphasis on design. The maxim that ‘beautiful skin deserves beautiful soap’ is at the forefront of what we do, with a firm belief that a good, natural soap should not only leave the skin feeling gently cleansed and perfectly conditioned but should also provide a positive visual experience, with the design of the soap playing an important role. The inclusion of various botanicals, clays, milks and a wide range of pure nutrient and essential oils, all carefully chosen for their individual properties, helps us create a very special soap indeed. We employ a strong ‘no palm oil’ policy and actively support a local conservation charity that works out in Sumatra. As well as soap, we are continually expanding our range of bath and skincare products, such as balms, bath bombs, salts and oils.

Mr Toad's place | Stationery by Paper Tree Design | Soap favour by Stonesfield Soap Company | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uktwitter-1@StonesfieldSoap

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Transport – Angela Martin – British Classic Car Hire

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A trip in a classic car provides a whole new experience in road travel.  The smell of the leather seats, the lovely clunk of the solid door and the admiring smiles from those you pass; they provide a picturesque touch to your wedding day photos, and will make you feel like you are the stars of a vintage movie as you are driven to your wedding reception!
Every car in our fleet is an original, vintage vehicle, so by hiring one for your wedding, you’ll instantly become part of its history.  A full chauffeur service is provided with each car hire and discounts are available if you wish to hire more than one.
The company is run by Angela Martin, a classic car enthusiast, and she is well equipped to advise you on which model will best suit your needs, and her enthusiasm is infectious!   Whether you prefer the 1956 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud I or you are drawn to the retro style of the 1938 Daimler or 1935 Humber, all models are safe and comfortable to ride in.
Ribbons can be added in your preferred colour scheme and your chauffeur (usually Angela) is happy to stop off for a photo-shoot so if you have a favourite backdrop which you’d like to be photographed against, Angela is more than happy to oblige!
Whether or not you have a passion for cars, classic cars have a beauty about them that everyone can appreciate and as soon as you step aboard one, you won’t stop smiling.  The whole experience is one that will stay with you forever, so its a perfect treat for such a special day.
If you would like to meet the cars, contact Angela on 01865 301701 or visit http://www.britishclassiccarhire.co.uk/ for more information.
Couple by car | British Classic Car Hire | Wind in the Willows | marsala & gold | autumnal | Old Swan & Minster Mill | Witney | October 2016 | Photography by Farrow Photography www.farrowphotography.co.uk
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Take a look at a behind the scenes look at the briefs that were given to these fabulous suppliers and how the Wind in the Willows theme came to life with their designs and products.