Many people spend more time in planning the wedding than they do in planning the marriage. Here’s where Q-Events proves helpful by taking care of wedding planning. The company has been a pioneer when it comes to arranging theme-based wedding events. The Luxe Café discusses pre-nuptial event planning with creative director, Geeta Samuel.
Most interesting concepts by Q events
Banaras Ghat as the wedding theme
The concept recreated the atmosphere of the “Ganga Aarti”. It included a stage for receiving the couple beside a 240 foot long water body, with candlelit Ghats leading into the “Ganges”. Three dimensional temple structures were designed, surrounding the venue with elevated lounges in the centre. The lounges were adorned with painted works of art on the ceiling reflecting the colours and spirituality associated with the city of Banaras.
The Royal Opera as the reception theme
The interiors consist of interweaving corridors, stairwells, alcoves and landing allowing the movement of large number of people and space for socialising.
In the last couple of years, the moneyed are splurging on making weddings an experience for themselves as well as their guests. The concept of theme wedding fits like hand in glove with the numerous rituals and functions that constitute an Indian marriage.
People keen on keeping it traditional are choosing themes like temple weddings and the flamboyant royal wedding. “Then there are those who are rather keen on fusion themes with the right mix of Indian traditions and western concepts. Vintage and chic weddings are also trending big time,” says Samuel.
People prefer Udaipur for its opulence, Jodhpur for its grandeur and Goa for its beaches. Among foreign locales, Bali and Thailand are the perennial favorites. European locales are also becoming popular.
Event planning — from conceptualisation to implementation — is usually a 40–60 day process. Structural design, accessorisation, floral designs and linen sourcing are among the key concerns. Detailed research and sampling are integral to the hosting of an event.
The cost of an event depends mostly on the design. Production of structures, artistic detailing and expanse of the venue decide the expenditure. Structures, flowers, fabric, materials, manpower and workmanship are the key factors.
HERITAGE & MODERNITY | For those whose luggage makes a style statement
The brand Hartmann was born in 1877 in the US. Its creator, Joseph Hartmann, wanted to build luggage that would be a symbol of excellence and provided lifelong guarantee for his products. The brand still reflects his vision and carries forwards his legacy. World’s most famous spy James Bond carried a Hartmann in Ian Fleming’s 1954 novel Live & Let Die. Halston and Gloria Vanderbilt have designed collections for Hartmann.
Hartmann promises intelligent functionality combined with luxurious elegance for the modern traveller, says Suresh Menon, CEO of Samsonite South Asia.
Hartmann has constantly introduced innovations to suit the varied demands of modern travel, while retaining the DNA of its longstanding heritage — quality and elegance. For example, the tweed belting collection was introduced in 1958 and is the hallmark of the Hartmann brand. In our current tweed collection, we retain the heritage details and craftsmanship of this classic favourite, such as the high-quality America-made tweed fabric, tanned leather trimming and original vintage styled handles. Yet, we have completely updated the bag. It has a durable, lightweight frame, smooth Himomoto wheels, and intelligent use of interiors such as separate suit hanger, travel pouches and technology pockets to ensure that packing is convenient.
Among the new lines, the latest 7R collection is a blend of modern engineering and elegance. It is the lightest and strongest luggage made by Hartmann till date.
The leathers must meet stringent quality standards. We use only full grain and top grain leather, which are of the highest quality. Full grain leather is untreated, showing the natural texture of the animal skin, while top grain leather has had one layer removed so it is thinner and suppler.
Intensity Belting luggage
The brand predominantly uses a classic, timeless and neutral palette in its leather collection, which includes rich black, chocolate, navy and tan. This allows buyers to pair the products with practically any dress in their wardrobe. Leather products are often accentuated with signature tan belting leather trimmings. Seasonal hues such as orange and sky blue are used for a refreshing pop of colour.
Hartmann India opened its first store at UB City Mall, Bengaluru in November 2014. Hartmann products are also available at the Samsonite Black Label stores at Palladium in Mumbai and the Mumbai International Airport.
KICK START | Classy protection which ensures you are safe not sorry
Alpinestars, a global leader in technical, high performance protection for motorcycle and auto racing, was founded in Asolo, Italy in 1963. The 2015 Formula One World Championship will see the Williams pit crew and drivers Felipe Massa, Valtteri Bottas, Susie Wolff and Alex Lynn sport suits, under layers, boots and gloves made by Alpinestars.
Dhoom and Hrithik Roshan may have re-ignited the craze for bikes in India but motorcycles are part of the macho culture the world over. The Luxe Café brings a selection of high-end products made by Alpinestars available in India for bikers.
Atem Leather Suit at Rs 1,17,000
One-piece leather suit offering class-leading protection for the street and track. It combines premium materials, safety features and ergonomic styling to give high levels of security and performance.
GP Pro Gloves at Rs 23,000
The sleek, ergonomic and lightweight GP Pro glove delivers high-performance protection along with comfort and flexibility.
Scala Rider G9X (Price on Request)
The bike-to-bike intercom has range of up to 1 mile. Its voice recognition and voice command technology is ideal for hands-free operation. Its mobile phone conference mode allows rider, passenger and outside caller to talk to each other. The music sharing mode lets the rider and passenger to listen to the same stereo music.
Celer Leather Jacket at Rs 45,000
With a MotoGP-derived, perforated back hump and Alpinestars Dynamic Flow Control zippered ventilation intakes, this aggressively styled, technical jacket offers street and track riders superb interior climate control. Its strategically placed stretch paneling gives the Celer a superior performance fit. This abrasion resistant jacket has a highly contoured fit and is comfortable to wear.
luxury-hideouts
Head for these hotels for a chilled out vacation with a touch of royalty
The Luxe Café brings you the pick of luxury hotels in the Abode of Kings aka Rajasthan. These oases of comfort –Ranvas, Amanbagh, Anopura, Shahpura Bagh, Sujan Palace, Mihirgarh and Raas — vary in shape, size and surroundings but have great experience as the common denominator. They ensure that the guests from all over the world enjoy the heritage, culture and culinary delights for which Rajasthan is famous. Their hospitality will always make you feel at home and you will bid them adieu with a twinge of nostalgia and silent promise to return one day.
The Haryana Hurricane tells The Luxe Café that, like his batting, he keeps it simple when it comes to what to wear, drive or eat. What’s in a name is his mantra and comfort is of prime importance for him. He has been the face of varying brands such as Palmolive and Rapidex but one of world’s greatest all-rounders is not a stickler for brands. His advice is to wear what you can carry, eat what you enjoy and choose a vehicle which is comfy instead of falling for the brand hype. His strategy is same that helped India win its first World Cup, don’t be afraid to experiment but do it wisely.
HOLLYWOOD ROMANCE | Up the glam quotient with an LBD, a la Audrey Hepburn
iWhat remains a continued source of wonder are the sentiments that pictures of legendary Hollywood divas, like Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, stillinspire in their recurrent reappearances in the popular media. One wonder about what is so magical about some of these images which have been in circulation over the years, some black and white photographs, some with vintage tints, managing to transport the onlooker like Peter Pan into an eternally fashionable, timelessly elegant Neverland.
Beyond the appearance itself, lies the singular personalities of each of these classic Hollywood actresses of yore. All varying from each other, all with a signature style of her own that spawned many a designer dreams. So while Audrey Hepburn’s doe-eyed beauty has not seen another similitude, her style as seen in films like Breakfast at Tiffany, Roman Holiday continues to find favour with fashionistas world over. With her pearls, LBDs, and oversized sunglasses she made her mark as an evergreen style icon who radiated glam even in sheathes, fitted gowns, hats and gloves. Redefining trends, she wore a short white dress and her signature head scarf at her wedding to Andrew Dotti. So, should you be the dainty miss who likes her vintage with a vengeance, then you can take some inspiration from Audrey Hepburn and turn to Dior’s floral print dresses, from their Resort collection, with nipped waists, pair it with some oversized Jackie O glasses, and a Hermes scarf tied over your head for maximum effect. And oh, don’t forget to throw in some Basra pearls coming to you from your grandma.
Some unforgettable style icons from 1940s America included actresses Marlene Dietrich and Katharine Hepburn, with their high-waisted, wide-legged trousers, and Rita Hayworth looking quite the femme fatale in her sexy cocktail dresses
with furs
Talking of more such looks associated with famous American actresses, one cannot forget Elizabeth Taylor’s be jeweled Cleopatra ensembles which sparked a rage for Egyptian-inspired fashions. These are also the names that gave rise to the voluminous, lady-like hairstyles of the 1940s, including pin curls, victory rolls and the pompadour. While pants are the mainstay of the working woman’s wardrobe, there are those who would not shy away from bringing in some power glam quotient to the boardrooms. And that is where you turn to Marlene Dietrich ‘mannish’ style, which also contributed to also ‘erotocizing’ the trou back then. Put together a pair of wide-legged Jaon Wu trousers with velvet and satin tuxedo stripes, pair it with a sheer silk top and a pair of SuhaniPittie acrylic cone earring with gold filigree work on them.
Also, a pair of handmade leather brogues from Etsy for an indie touch will bring it all together beautifully for that sexy androgynous look.
Combine elements together to recreate you own Marlene Dietrich inspired look
Keeping the sumptuous femininity tempered with a bit of the masculine was another legendary actress Lauren Bacall who epitomized spartan glamour, cleaner lines and a slightly androgynous style favouring designers like Diana Vreeland and Norman Norell. On an occasion, style and beauty expert, Mary Alice Stephenson, said, “Bacall made it sexy for all women to wear casual clothes. She would wear them in such a glamorous way. She played up her makeup, hair and jewellery, all while wearing pants, button-down shirts, knits and flats.”
There is nothing else which will make you a showstopper if not a Alexander McQueen gown. To have your outfit scream red carpet, then we also have Gauri&Nainika closer home with their sheaths, off-shoulder gown in bold colours and cuts to bring out the detail of all your curves
Bringing along an overtly feminine aesthetic to town and around was Marilyn Monroe whose pose in a white dress blowing up is one of the most recognisable images in the world. The blonde goddess made heads turn in her Oleg Cassini gowns, Emilio Pucci shifts and also in the halter/low neckline dresses that accentuated her hourglass figure. The seductive figure that Marilyn Monroe cut is as much an inspiration for star-struck young girls as it is for followers of beauty in passion or profession. If you have had your fling with pants and day dresses, then move onto high glamour which is the forte of the femme fatale, but I daresay, not impossible to recreate with some help from our high fashion couturiers.
Slip on a pair of stilettos, with red lips, and you are ready to go va-va-vroom!
The power of couture for a red carpet look, a la Marilyn Monroe
Continuing in the same vein, one has to make a stop at the quintessential diva’s name – Grace Kelly – who went from Hollywood’s pin-up girl to princess of Monaco. Kelly, who starred in Oscar winning movie – Country Girl, had a classic, sophisticated take on fashion and wore feminine dresses with tailored tops, calf-skimming skirts cinched at the waist. Her fashion quotient went onto an all-time high with Hermès renaming one of its most popular bags ‘Kelly’ after the actress’s particular affinity to it. Her wedding to the prince of Monaco was a much talked about affair, not just because of the personages involved but also because of what she wore – a statement gown with long-sleeved lace top, fitted bodice, and flared taffeta skirt custom created by MGM’s costume designer, Helen Rose. Her collection of headwear – safari hats, headscarves, turbans – were trendsetters while she totally rocking basic pieces like the white cotton shirt, tailored capris and shirtdresses.
Turn to Grace Kelly for a day out in the sun, but with style in place
So, here we are with style dossier featuring some of the much-loved yester years’ divas we all look up to for fashion inspiration. Go ahead, take your cue and get started with being your own stylist.
The atelier of Mathieu Lustrerie is located in a small hamlet in south of France and this is where the empire of the world’s most beautiful chandeliers started from. Today it has expanded to cover the world and has its presence marked as restorer and creator of opulent lighting with representative works for the Hall of Mirrors in Chateau de Versailles and also present at the likes of Cartier and Hermes boutiques. With their legacy of craftsmanship making each artisanal chandelier one of its kind, Mathieu Lustrerie, has also arrived on Indian shores and has been busy adapting French aesthetics to Indian tastes – restoring chandeliers at Indian palaces among other projects. Here is Alex, telling us how chandeliers from the house of Lustrerie define the identity of the residences, palaces and monuments where they reside, and are also customised pieces of investment given that they blend vintage craft with nobel materials and a modern sensibility. Listen on to find out more about this symbol of power and prestige –Mathieu Lustrerie chandeliers – right here on The Luxe Café, before you get on to their one year waiting list.
LOVERS’DAY OUT | In enchanting locales with exciting possibilities to explore together
The luxury of taking a vacation with no occasion defining it is certainly a cherished one. But when its the season when the reason is love, you can happily join in the lovestruck lot and plan a romantic treat for two – no questions asked. But should you be the one begging to differ – no matter what the price or place – then here are some first-hand suggestions for retreats which will take you far away from the maddening crowds.We have heard of clichés where they say love is all about re-connecting with the elements, and we just thought that there is an idea, because what is luxury if not a return, or a retreat as it were, to nature in all its glory. So, here are the four chosen retreats which promise to bring you closer to your love, and the four elements, in each of their exclusive, extravagant and eloquently ethereal environs.
For the lovebirds for whom being down-to-earth and rooted means a lot, the earth is your oyster. And we have for you the Tree House Resort, rated among the top 30 eco-hotels in India, situated in the foothills of Syari Valley, with a perfect view of Aravalli Mountain. Innovative in design, these luxury cottages, or nests as they are called, are perched atop ‘keekar’ trees and several live branches running through the rooms making nature omnipresent in these cocoons of comfort. While the cottages ring in the rustic aesthetics of a real tree house, the interiors are fitted out with all the mod cons and you will not be left wanting for the amenities that come with a 5 star resort. This tropical paradise, recalling every shade of green, interspersed with lakes and duck ponds, is perfect for a romantic getaway, not too far removed from the city and yet isolated in its theme – a return to verdant earth, deep inside the heart of a forest.
FIND LOVE IN THE WOODS | Each Tree House nest is christened after a bird found in the area
A walk in woods hand in hand with your partner, with no one to otherwise claim attention, and only exotic birds chirping away in a melodious medley, the resort is a unique experience. Adding to the pleasures of your stay-acation, there is a restaurant – aptly called ‘Machaan’ – with delicacies being whipped up using handpicked organic produce by the resident chefs. And should you want to share a drink to cap a perfect day spent together, then you just need to head to the Peacock Bar which happens to be a 400 year old relic from the Mughal era, with intricately carved peacocks and elephants running along its length and breadth, carefully restored to create a magnificent Bar space. But delights at the Tree House Resort do not come to an end just here, as there is more that you can enjoy, or rather indulge in together with your loved one. Staying true to its theme, this oasis of luxury also allows you to experience a spa with a difference.
PEACOCK BAR AT | The Tree House Resort happens to be a 400 year old relic from the Mughal era, with intricately carved peacocks and elephants running along its length and breadth
The Aviary Spa happens to be India’s first where caged birds who cannot survive in the wild are released in the aviary – a happy space for the birds. The vibrant colours and tweets of the birds make the spa therapies more relaxing, and one that both of you would not forget. And, since no vacation could be truly complete without shopping [let’s call it gifting for our purposes here], there is the Nature Shop, Taruveda, which has on display a stunning collection of handicrafts, paintings from across the globe along with organics of OMVED and the exclusive collection from Monisha Thahryamal – so spoilt for choice, aren’t we here?
No.1 address in the Indian Ocean – Taprobane Island has played host to kings, queens, presidents, prime ministers, aristocracy, writers and eccentrics, giving
it a very colorful history
Moving on to more fluid elements, we have for you an island holiday idea which you might not have encountered yet. And an encounter it is, because we are talking about Sri Lanka’s only privately owned island which they also refer to as the ‘No.1 address in the Indian Ocean’ – Taprobane Island. It was originally built in the 1920’s by the romantically named but self-styled Count de Mauny-Talvande. Located on Sri Lanka’s exotic south coast, fast becoming the Riviera of choice for the world’s discerning and inquisitive travellers, the island with its neo palladian mansion has played host to kings, queens, presidents, prime ministers, aristocracy, writers and eccentrics, giving it a very colorful history.
With two and a half acres of tropical heaven on earth, the access to this island, interestingly, is usually made by wading through the surf on foot, or by some, on elephant or sedan chair! And to think that there is veritably nothing between the island and the South Pole – the ultimate fantasy of a secluded lovers’ hideout comes true right here. You can revel in the privacy of the 5 en-suite bedrooms, with spacious living areas, balconies, verandahs, an infinity pool and astaff of 5 along with a private chef catering to your every need.
LOVE BY THE WATER’S EDGE | Eternally romantic Taprobane island villa is a tropical fantasy
The sprawling octagonal house, with its cool white terrazzo floors and high wooden ceilings allows for panoramic Indian Ocean views and of the sprawling tropical garden with cascading terraces filled with frangipanis, palms, flame trees, fuchsias, hibiscus, bougainvillea, heliconia, bromeliads, monkey tail, orchids and white sandy paths. So you wander along in unbroken serenity, oblivious to mundane distraction of the urban life. Love finds itself an apt background here to flourish in, overlooking the Indian Ocean, shaded in by the swaying palms, fenced in by a beauty which dates back to unspoiled, innocent times.
TAPROBANE ISLAND’S | Infinity pool looking over Indian Ocean
For those who like floating away, or being carried away in a heady rush of excitement through their lives, they will love the mountains which court the air as if their essences blend in. And for such seekers of the ethereal, we have The Himalayan, perched at an elevation of 2003 metres, in Manali’s hill-studded landscape. A premier luxury resort, it is built in the Victorian Gothic Revival style which cuts a towering figure against a background of mountain peaks and tall coniferous trees.
LOVE ON THE TOP OF THE WORLD | The Himalayan’s Gothic façade houses sheer splendour and superlative style
The Castle and Cottages are set in the midst of apple and cherry orchards, and offer you an unprecedented access to a wide array of flora and fauna. You can find your own nature trail to embark on or find out a silent nook to spend a quiet evening for two.The castle lofts and turrets, culminate at the Crow’s Nest where the irregularity of the Castle becomes even more evident, with soaring chimneys and a 360° panoramic view of the grounds and the Manali landscape – all very fit for a romantic rendezvous.
ONE OF THE SUITES AT | The Himalayan, Manali
If your love is like an all-consuming passionate flame, then the sun would be an apt emblem to espouse, and so the Fort of the Sun – Mihirgarh – will be your kind of place, and not too far away being 55 kms south west of Jodhpur City. The majestic fort seems to emerge from the desert and complements the raven-like beauty of the land. This exclusive nine suite boutique hotel promises more than 1700 sq.ft. of pure luxury.
LOVE, ALL SUNNY SIDE UP | Mihigarh Fort, eniched by history, mystified by mythology and beautified by nature
While Alishaan is the name given to the suites on the ground floor, each of which comes with its own plunge pool and personal courtyard, the suites on the first floor are called Shaandar and have an exclusive open air Jacuzzi along with a private terrace. Alishaan and Shaandar – the names come from the fine Marwari Stallions from the Rohet Stables[Mihirgarh also has an equestrian programme with best specimens of the Marwari breed of horseson display]. What is to be cherished here are the Royal picnics, reminiscent of a bygone era, pitched under an ornate tent, the food and wine laid upon crisp white covers, the courteous attendants, the live music create an ambience which is unrivalled and will be the last word in a royal outing which could very well turn out to be a date to remember forever.
Each of the suites on the ground floor at Mihirgar comes with its own plunge pool and personal courtyard
With the four retreats covered above, it won’t be love’s labour lost at all and you will be left wanting for more as goodbyes will get harder too!
MODERN CLASSIC | The new 911 Targa sees the timeless design of the original model from 1965 and the contemporary sportiness of the seventh 911 generation fused together in perfect synergy
The latest generation of the elegant 911 Targa has arrived in India, with the legendary model boasting the classic Targa concept with highly advanced roof technology. The introduction of the modern classic in the country marks the continued progression of the Porsche 911 family, as the new Targa 4 and 4S models join the brand’s iconic product line-up.
The new 911 Targa sees the timeless design of the original model from 1965 and the contemporary sportiness of the seventh 911 generation fused together in perfect synergy. The return to the original concept, with its characteristic fixed Targa bar, breathes new life into the legend with its state-of-the-art roof technology.
The new 911 Targa 4 models can tackle any type of weather and any type of road surface
“The 911 is a sports car which has won more races than any other and, in this latest evolution, I believe it has never looked more spectacular. In the 911 Targa, we see the ultimate in driving dynamics come together with stunning design and the very latest in ground-breaking roof technology. The car’s arrival here in India signifies a new chapter in the legendary model’s evolution and I am incredibly proud and excited to welcome it,” says, Anil Reddi, Director, Porsche India.
Porsche 911 Targa comes with the latest in ground-breaking roof technology
Just like the original model, the new 911 Targa features the characteristic wide bar in place of the B-pillars, a movable roof section above the front seats and a wraparound rear window with no C-pillar. But unlike the classic models, the roof segment on the new models can be opened and closed at the push of a button in just 19 seconds, as the fully automatic roof system stows the convertible top behind the rear seats, providing a real spectacle.
Unlike the classic models, the roof segment on the new models can be opened and closed at the push of a button in just 19 seconds
The rear-weighted design of the Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive fitted as standard is a typical Porsche feature and can be identified by the arches of the rear axle which have each been widened by an additional 22 mm, with rear tyres that are each 10 mm wider.
7-speed manual transmission combines a high level of sporty performance with an equally high level of efficiency
The drivetrain concept reflects the core traits of the new 911 Targa 4 models: sportiness, safety and comfort. The power from the flat-six engines is transmitted by an automatic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK), which is fitted as standard.
The 911 Targa 4 when combined with the 7-speed manual gearbox, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds and reaches a top track speed of 282 km/h
As with its predecessors, the new Targa generation comes in two versions available exclusively with all-wheel drive. The 911 Targa 4 is powered by a 3.4-litre, 350 hp flat engine. When equipped with the optional Sport Chrono package, this model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds and boasts a top speed of 282 km/h.
Porsche 911 Targa 4S reaches a top speed of 296 km/h and, when equipped with the optional Sport Chrono package, accelerates in just 4.4 seconds
The top model is the 911 Targa 4S, which delivers 400 hp from a displacement of 3.8 litres. This model reaches a top speed of 296 km/h and, when equipped with the optional Sport Chrono package, accelerates in just 4.4 seconds. The 911 Targa 4S can also be specified with the Carrera S Powerkit that boosts output by 30 hp.
Equipped with direct fuel injection, both engines are sporty high revving units and excel with exemplary fuel economy. To increase efficiency, they feature electrical system recuperation, map-controlled thermal management of the engine coolant and an auto stop/start function.
The new 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S are available at all Porsche Centres in India with a basic ex showroom price of Rs 15,610,000 and Rs 17,525,000 respectively.
THE BOVEY CASTLE | For a romantic Victorian wedding at a picture-book pretty castle
Weddings are a momentous occasion for some, extending beyond ceremony to a celebration. For others, they are a chance to gather a few close ones and cherish the rare chance of meeting all the important people in their lives in a span of a few days. Ultimately, weddings are unforgettable, and what makes them so is the atmosphere they create. And what better to create an atmosphere of festivity and celebration than to set the special day in some of the most picturesque castles, against the backdrop of centuries of lavish living and enchanting romances? There are a plethora of options to choose from,situated in pockets of Britain’s most scenic locations, all offering both catered to and non-catered weddings, varying on the number of guests and accommodation requirements. Here are a few top picks-
Augill Castle-
Set in the upper echelons of the Eden Valley, Augill Castle has been voted one of the most romantic spots in England. Widely reputed for its flexibility with wedding plans and an informal, relaxed feel, it replaces the general chaos that ensues at a wedding with tranquillity and striking views. The castle has fourteen bedrooms, accommodating twenty eight guests at any given time, ideal for more intimate weddings, which are tailor made for each couple, having being designed specifically according to their interests and wishes. Room rates range between one hundred and forty to two hundred and twenty pounds per night.
Exclusive use includes sole use of the castle and grounds including 15 bedrooms, grounds & public areas. Hiring the castle for a weekend wedding can cost from GBP 10200- GBP 13500 and includes sole use of the castle and grounds including 15 bedrooms, grounds & public areas. This price package also includes accommodation in 15 bedrooms with buffet breakfast for up to 30 adults, three course wedding breakfast for up to 30 adults, the use of theirimpressive ‘cake sword’, afternoon tea on arrival, a relaxed buffet meal on the first night and buffet breakfast on the first morning also.
SUMMER WEDDING VENUE | Augill Castle exteriors through the cherry blossoms
Bovey Castle-
Located in the lush landscapes of Dartmoor National Park, Devon, Bovey Castle has the perfect blend of a modern resort and an old time castle. A popular choice for luxurious weddings, Bovey Castle has dedicated wedding planners who committedly work with the couple to ensure that every aspect of the big day is flawless. The castle accommodates roughly one hundred and sixty guests, making it ideal for bigger wedding parties. There are a variety of accommodation options to choose from to suit different budgets, ranging from actually living in the castle to nearby lodges. Room rates range between one hundred and fifty to six hundred and fifty pounds a night. For a wedding rental, there are multiple options between hosting a true blue English civil marriage ceremony in the regal Cathedral Room or in the intimate and sophisticated Adams Room, or even outdoors in the charming Summerhouse.
Known for its high quality entertainment and fantastically original themed weddings, Lumley Castle, in Chester-Le-Street, Northumberland, is the first choice for those who wish to spend a few days with the wedding party after the weddingto see a bit of North East England. Overlooking the river Wear and only sixteen kilometres from the historic city of Durham, Lumley Castle boasts of a diverse range of entertainmentand plenty of nearby tourist attractions to keep the guests busy. The castle accommodates roughly one hundred and thirty guests, with room prices ranging between thirty three to two hundred and twenty pounds a night.
Wedding coordinators are available on request and can plan any kind of entertainment,from treasure hunts, murder mystery parties to trips to the highly recommended Beamish Museum and Durham Cathedral. To hire for the wedding ceremony there is the grand Scarbrough State Room and for an Elizabethan banquet there is the Barons Hall, among other options. There are limited-period, day-long wedding packages starting at GBP 2500, while the ideal way to seek a private consultation and quotation through their website.
FOR A WHITE WEDDING | Couture cakes from Lumley Castle wedding specialists
Walworth Castle-
Located enviably on the outskirts of Darlington, County Durham, Walworth Castle promises fantastic comfort and excellent service. With over found hundred acres of parkland, the castle is perfect for outdoor weddings and receptions. Room rates range from eighty five to two hundred and fifty pounds a night, with complementary overnight accommodation and dining for the bride and groom! Catering options are especially diverse here, with a popular favourite being traditional Yorkshire food. What makes this an affordable option among all others is the fact that there is no venue hire charges and you will not compromise on exclusivity as they have a policy of only one wedding pr day.
The 12th century style castle with its sprawling grounds offers many options and customisation services to tailor your dream wedding starting in their civil ceremony room, the bridal suite and the wedding breakfast room. There are wedding packages of various ranges, like there is the Camelot Wedding for 75 guests priced at around GBP 46OO while the King James Wedding package for 100 guests will set you back by about GBP 5800. With all of this in place and sounding very exotic and idyllic, this could then be the perfect venue for your highland wedding.
FOR A SIT-DOWN WEDDING | Banquet seating for a sun-lit ceremony at Walworth Castle
So, if you wish to relocate into an English fairytale and have a wedding which befits the same, then think no further than these castles for an uber luxurious destination wedding.
