wedding supplement april 2011

WEDDING DRESSES GIFT IDEAS BEAUTY FLOWERS JEWELLERY HEALTH VENUES INSPIRATION

3 of the best historicallondon venues

TO LOVE &TO CHERISH

The best wedding jewellery

SUPPLEMENTWedding YOUR

in association with

Herecomes theBridetheBrideGrandeur& elegance at RIBA

EXPERT TIPSFor planning yourspecial day

CA APRIL 11 - WEDDING SUPPLEMENT COVER.indd 52 30/03/2011 02:20

SUPPLEMENTWedding YOUR EDITOR’S LETTER

FIND US ONFACEBOOK

Helen [email protected]

Our supplement this month is rather dear to my heart, as I myself got engaged at Christmas last year. Putting together our wedding issue has been so much fun and incredibly helpful in helping me gather ideas for my big day. I hope it proves as handy for all the other brides-to-be out there.

The most important thing to organise for a wedding is, of course, the location. Any ideas about decorative schemes, dresses and fl owers (among other things) will probably stem from the architectural styling of the venue - and it can be surprisingly hard to fi nd a place that really strikes a chord. All too often wedding locations can seem stuffy or corporate or formal, but editing this supplement has schooled me in some of the more unique London spaces for hire – and having come to my engagement with a rather open mind (no preconceived plans, no much-imagined big white wedding since the age of twelve), I’ve really enjoyed fi nding out more about the characterful, colourful venues out there.

In our supplement you’ll fi nd tips and advice from top London wedding planner Mark Niemierko, beautiful gift and jewellery ideas as well as the all-important venue round-up. The magazine itself is also bridal-themed, with long-wear make up suggestions and a ‘What to Wear’ wedding fashion page, as well as a feature spotlight on the best historical venues in the local area - some of which you may never have heard of before.

We hope you’ll love this wedding special as much as we’ve loved putting it together, and we hope it serves you on your way to a chic and unique wedding. All our best to every couple planning for the day itself. See you on the other side!

Bespoke Wedding Photography Tailored for your Big Day

Wedding PhotographyBoutiqueTel: 07780 705 303www.boutique-wedding-photography.com

Memories aremade of this...

Memories aremade of this...

10%off with

this advert

CA APR 11 WEDDING EDS LETTER.indd 4 28/03/2011 18:07

29

HOW DID YOU GET INTO WEDDING PLANNING?I worked in TV and film production from an early age. I enjoyed the organisational element, working on PR and events. Obviously that kind of background is good practice for wedding planning – you run things like a military operation; there’s no room for error! I had a grand plan to start an events company with a wedding branch, but weddings just took off. When I started the company, wedding planning wasn’t being done that well in London.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN THINGS INVOLVED IN PLANNING A WEDDING FOR A CLIENT?Everything! The main thing is getting on well with clients and being adaptable. I don’t think you can love the job for the sake of loving it or do it purely for financial gain. You have to want to do it.

WHAT’S THE MOST DIFFICULT THING TO ORGANISE?There’s no one thing; there are difficult elements. It’s not so enjoyable working with clients who don’t share your mind-set or unprofessional suppliers. I also really dislike working with bad service; trying to teach people how to give 5-star service…is basically teaching people how to do their jobs properly! This quite often applies to venues that, surprisingly frequently, don’t understand how important service is.

TELL US ABOUT THE CRAZIEST WEDDING YOU’VE ORGANISED…There’s so many! They’re all individual. I did once have to plan a wedding in two days; the bride was flying in from South Africa on the day of the wedding, there was no dress, so she had to try things on in the morning in her hotel suite! It just goes to show you can do a wedding with very little notice.

WEDDING COSTS CAN ESCALATE WILDLY: WHAT ARE YOUR TOP-TIPS FOR SAVING MONEY?I would say just really think about your own personal tastes as a couple. Don’t try to be something you’re not. If you’re a foodie pair, have a reception in a restaurant for example. What tends to happen is that couples find themselves doing things in a formulaic way rather than a personal one. If you like drinking and socialising, spend at the bar instead of on sugar almonds! Don’t throw a wedding for 150 people if you’d really rather something more intimate. You don’t have to have a band playing just because its traditional, you can do whatever you want! It’s less about saving money and more about spending wisely.

AND TIPS FOR THE DAY IN GENERAL?Be relaxed! Obviously, don’t leave >

ALRIGHT ON THE NIGHTStay on track with your wedding plans with Mark Niemierko’s expert tips and advice…

Q&A

WEDDING PLANNER

CA APR 11 - Wedding Planner.indd 29 28/03/2011 18:09

30

WEDDINGSPECIAL

anything until the day itself – you don’t want to be doing the seating plan on the morning of the wedding. The most you want to be thinking about on the day is when to open a bottle of champagne. And if something does go wrong and you haven’t got a planner sorting it for you, let it be. You can’t control everything, so enjoy your big day! IF YOU HAD A CLIENT FOR WHO TIME AND MONEY WERE NO OBJECT, WHAT KIND OF WEDDING WOULD YOU PLAN?For me, it’s not about that. The couple are at the core of what I do, so it’s not about what I want to plan. I’ve been asked to take complete control on occasion but my aim is to make a wedding personal to the couple. Even if I have a limitless budget, I don’t want to wade in with a load of crazy ideas for the sake of it. When a couple aren’t so forthcoming about what they want, I have to draw it out of them. What era do they like? What colours? What flowers? What food? I know immediately from the details they give me which suppliers to go to. I also like to break the day into ‘acts’. I hate going to a ceremony when you can see the band getting ready at dinner; I think its better to break the day up – maybe go to a different room for dessert or dancing, to keep the excitement and keep the guests guessing a little.You plan logistically first and then get creative. Often I’ll do a walk-through at a venue and get ideas for colours, furniture and lighting etc.

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE VENUE?Venue is crucial. You can’t plan anything without a venue. Not the lighting, the flowers or the band. It all depends on the staging, the space, a late licence etc. And you can’t send the invitations out without deciding that first. It’s important as a planner to point out the pros and cons of a particular venue to clients. If you want dancing, you might not be able to work with a small country house.

OF ALL THE VENUES YOU HAVE WORKED WITH, WHAT HAS IMPRESSED YOU MOST? The Dorchester hotel, for all-out wow. It’s an obvious choice but its renowned for its good service. You don’t want your guests waiting for champagne – if service is bad no one will notice how lovely the flowers are! The Dorchester has variety; for a 20 person wedding, there’s The Penthouse and Pavilion Suite, for a classic elegant couple there’s The Orchid Rooms for 120 guests, for 400 guests you’ve got The Ballroom and if you’re ultra contemporary there are The Crystal Rooms. The Dorchester has venues within venues! The rooms and spas are convenient too. I also like Kensington Palace Orangery, the Banqueting House at Whitehall, One Marylebone and One Mayfair and I must mention Claridge’s too.

ANY QUIRKY VENUES LONDONERS MIGHT NOT HAVE HEARD OF BEFORE? We did a wedding at the Louise Blouin Foundation in Ladbroke Grove; it’s a gallery and a real blank canvas so you can have a lot of fun there. Number Sixteen is a small hotel in South Kensington with a secret garden - perfect for something very intimate.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PERSONAL TOUCHES A COUPLE CAN ADD TO MAKE THEIR BIG DAY SPECIAL?Overall the day should be a reflection of the couple. Throw in your favourite cocktail. If you like fast food, serve hamburgers in the evening. We’ve even thrown in Christian Dior dressing tables in bedroom suites before so lady guests can treat themselves to Dior products; they were also given silk nighties with their initials sewn into the pocket. I like the subtle touches – a newspaper delivered to everyone’s room on the morning of the wedding, wrapped in a ribbon bearing the couple’s name for example - nothing too in your face.

LASTLY, WHAT WOULD YOU DO FOR YOUR OWN WEDDING?I wouldn’t do a sit-down dinner. I’d do an intimate ceremony, earlier in the day, maybe with a lunch for 20 people and then later in the evening a black-tie, stand-up party with buffet food. I always try to make a dinner upbeat and short: from a guest perspective, the dinner may not be as fun. You might be plonked next to someone you can’t bear so you don’t want to be stationed there!

niermierko.com

<

CA APR 11 - Wedding Planner.indd 30 28/03/2011 18:09

RIBA VENUES AT 66 PORTLAND PLACEart deco glamour with 21st century service www.ribavenues.com | 020 7307 3888

66 Portland Place, London W1B 1AD

N Enviably positioned in the heart of the capital, The Royal Institute of British Architects isthe ideal location for your event M

Discover this unique and versatile space for meetings, conferences, dinners, receptions and celebrations from 8 to 400 people.

RIBA_sqmeal_ad_fullpage.indd 1 25/03/2011 09:54











RIBA April 11.indd 1 25/03/2011 11:25

£150off with this ad!*

Chromogenex’s ultra i-lipo utilisesmodern technology for quick treatments.It’s pain free, totally non-invasive and remarkable new technology.

Why not pop in for a free, no obligation consultation near Liverpool Street Station?

Call: 020 7377 8017Web: healthspectrumclinic.comEmail: [email protected]

wedding-FP-23-03-2012.indd 1 23/03/2011 14:26

Instant body contouring with no pain and no downtime

iLipo is the best way to shape up for your all important wedding day

£150off withthis ad!*

modern technology for quick treatments.

consultation near Liverpool Street Station?

Instant body contouring with no pain and no downtime

up for your all important wedding day

£150

consultation near Liverpool Street Station?

Instant body contouring with

up for your all important wedding day

£150off withthis ad!*

Health Spectrum April 11.indd 1 29/03/2011 22:57

33

FASHION

J&P BRONZE LEATHER FLORAL CLUTCH

£72 JENKINSANDPOWER.COM

House of Dagmar

BOW & VEIL CONTRAST LACE PILL BOX

£24 ACCESSORIZE.COM

Wedding Belles

It’s wedding season, so make sure you’re the BDG (best dressed guest).

Just don’t upstage the bride...

ASPINAL OF LONDON CLASSIC HEPBURN HANDBAG

NUDE PATENT, £495 ASPINALOFLONDON.COM

WHITE BERGAMOT EDT, £35 BSQUARE.CO.UK

YVES SAINT LAURENT TRIBUTE SANDAL

£540 HARVEYNICHOLS.COM

SONIA BY SONIA RYKIE RUFFLE STRAP COTTON DRESS

£295 LIBERTY.CO.UK

SPIKE FEATHER

FASCINATOR£30 KALIKO.

CO.UK

LELA ROSE PLEATED COTTON-

TWILL DRESS£765

NET-A-PORTER.COM

DEBORAH ICONIC DRESS WITH SILK CREPE SKIRT AND

LEATHER TOP£398

HOUSEOFDAGMAR.SE

ELTA STRAPLESS MAXI DRESS, £229 TEDBAKER.COM

SEQUIN CAPELET£55 BLAKEGODBOLD.COM

WEBSITE OF THE MONTH: THE KOOPLES.CO.UK – YOU’VE SEEN THE PREPOSTEROUSLY GOOD LOOKING

REAL-LIFE COUPLES IN THE ADS, NOW CHECK OUT THEIR STORIES ONLINE AND SHOP THIS ULTRA COOL BRAND

CA APRIL 11 Fashion Wedding Belles.indd 33 28/03/2011 17:47

Style 11132 - Lace embellished tulle gown with satin and crystal detailing £999 by Ellis Bridals, (020 8888 8833, ellisbridals.co.uk)

‘Josephine’ shoes £280 , ‘Adelaide’ necklace £450 and ‘Rebecca’ bracelet £295, all by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk)

CA APR 11 Fashion Shoot.indd 34 30/03/2011 16:58

Photography: Dan Williams Hair/Make-up: Helen Rance

Stylist: Frances Park

Our fashion shoot goes bridal at the captivating venue that is

RIBA at Portland Place

HERECOMES

THEBRIDE


Style 11197 – Pleated and rouched taffeta one shoulder dress with twist detail,

£899 by Ellis Bridals, 020 8888 8833 ellisbridals.co.uk

‘Pearl and jias crystal flower’ headband £95, by Freya Rose

(0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk)


Style 11184 – Pleated chiffon sweetheart neckline gown with lace embellished tulle, £899 by Ellis Bridals, 020 8888 8833, ellisbridals.co.uk

‘Josephine’ Shoe £280, by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk)

Original Vintage Headband £240, by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk)


‘Grace’ dress £7,800 by Bruce Oldfield Wedding, (020 7584 1363, bruceoldfield.com)

‘Eva’ shoe £395 by Emmy Shoes (020 7704 0012, emmyshoes.co.uk)

Hand embellished with crystal and fresh water pearls headband £165, by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk)


‘Millie’ dress £650 by Libelula (07986 583 238, libelula-studio.co.uk)

‘Aide’ Shoe £330 by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk)

Alll make up supplied by:CHANELCLINIQUE ILLAMASQUAYVES ST LAURENT

LOCATION:The RIBA66 Portland PlaceW1B 1ADribavenues.com For further information please contact the RIBA Venues team on 020 7307 3888 [email protected] The RIBA is an art deco landmark in the heart of London; a stunning and versatile venue available for corporate and private hire for 8 to 400 people

--------------------

CREDITS:

PHOTOGRAPHY:Dan Williams ([email protected])

HAIR/MAKE-UP:Helen Rance([email protected])

STYLIST:Frances Park

MODEL:Abigail Gottsat First Model Management

COVER:‘Gene’ dress £7,850 by Bruce Oldfield Wedding, (020 7584 1363, bruceoldfield.com)

‘Josephine’ shoes £280 , ‘Adelaide’ necklace £450 and ‘Rebecca’ bracelet £295, all by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk) Bouquet £70 Lilac, Lisianthus, Victoria Angry Antique roses, Ranunculus, Alabaster roses and Waxflower by Rebel Rebel (020 7254 4487, rebelrebel.co.uk)


marriot_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘≠'"≠marriot_light_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘≠'"

marriott_med_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"≠marriott_med_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"≠ marriott_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜ØŒ‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"

marriott_bold_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜ØŒ‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"

marriot_condensed_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘≠'"≠marriot_condensed_medium_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘≠'"

marriot_condensed_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘≠'"

YOU HANDLE ''I DO'' ANDWE'LL HANDLE ''TO DO''.

At the London Marriott Hotel Regents Park you can be

confident your wedding will be picture perfect.

Outstanding service is first and foremost.

And attention to detail is second to none.

Take full advantage of functional spaces, premium amenities

and anything else you need to have the most wonderful day.

'Save Your Date' with Katharina on 020 7449 4412.

LONDON MARRIOTT HOTEL REGENTS PARK128 King Henry's RoadLondon NW3 3ST

marriot_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘≠'"≠marriot_light_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘≠'"

marriott_med_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"≠marriott_med_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"≠ marriott_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜ØŒ‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"

marriott_bold_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜ØŒ‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"

marriot_condensed_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘≠'"≠marriot_condensed_medium_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘≠'"

marriot_condensed_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-= [] \;’,./≠ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+|:”<>?å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢ §¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤ ÷≠ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒÂ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚÆ¯˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘≠'"

YOU HANDLE ''I DO'' ANDWE'LL HANDLE ''TO DO''.

At the London Marriott Hotel Regents Park you can be

confident your wedding will be picture perfect.

Outstanding service is first and foremost.

And attention to detail is second to none.

Take full advantage of functional spaces, premium amenities

and anything else you need to have the most wonderful day.

'Save Your Date' with Katharina on 020 7449 4412.

LONDON MARRIOTT HOTEL REGENTS PARK128 King Henry's RoadLondon NW3 3ST

Tel: 0208 350 783207951 521 883

www.amethystbrides.co.uk

Amethyst BridesSpecialist in bespoke bridal and occasion wear

To view our current

collection visit the boutique by

appointment

54 Southbury Road, Enfi eld EN1 1YB

Marriott_The wedding_Amethyst.indd 1 29/03/2011 20:03

To Have & To Hold

for newlyweds...

ROCOCO HEART BOX NO.5£100, RococoChocolates.com BESPOKE MAP HEART

£40, bombus.co.uk

MOSER BAR DECANTER, £596, Gift-Library.com

ASPINAL ENGLISH BRIDLE LEATHER PHOTO ALBUM,

£155, Selfridges.com

EAST OF INDIA HAPPY-

EVER-AFTER ALBUM £14.95,

temptationgifts.com

DOM PERIGNON POWER TRIO

GIFT PACK, £870,

Selfridges.com

ROYAL WEDDING COLLECTION GIFT BOX,

£19.99, YankeeCandle.co.uk, 0845 050 2623PERSONALISED MR &

MRS TEA COSY£40 millyandpip.co.uk

ASCASO DREAM ‘THE COW’ ESPRESSO MACHINE, £515,

TheCoffeeMachineLondon.com

SILVER MUSSEL EATERS £26.50, whiskhampers.co.uk

The perfect presents

C+A APRIL 11 WEDDING GIFTS.indd 1 28/03/2011 18:08

What do we love about it?

42

WEDDING SPECIAL

Old Finsbury Town HallA grade II* listed building, registered with English Heritage as a building of great historical significance. This grand example of late 19th century Civic Architecture is found on the intersection of six Finsbury streets in the heart of Clerkenwell, set in an island bound by Rosebery Avenue, Garnault Place and Rosoman Street.

Evans Vaughan’s design of the Town Hall’s brick and stonework is “free Flemish Renaissance”. There are Baroque influences seen in the female figures and carved frieze above the first floor at the Rosoman Street and Garnault Place junction. Art Nouveau detailing (quite radical at the time of building) combines with the stained glass – an effect that was popular in the early 20th century.

Location can be the most difficult thing to decide on when organising a wedding.

If you choose to have the ceremony in London (and don’t already have somewhere in mind), it can be surprising how few spaces truly strike a chord with you and your partner’s individual taste and specifications. And it’s probably the first thing you need to arrange, as any ideas about theme, décor, even the dress, can stem from the final choice of venue.

If more modern venues leave you cold, an historical one could be the answer. All that architecture can offer much in the way of classicism, style, and atmosphere. We look at three of the best historical venues in the area.

Old Finsbury Town Hall is holding

weddings again, following restoration

in 2005 by the Urdang Academy, a long

established performing arts school that was formerly based in Covent Garden.

Urdang relocated in January 2007, but the town hall continues a

hundred year tradition as an events venue:

punk, rock and operatic legends are reputed to have been

married here!theoldfinsburytownhall.co.uk

LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION

CA MAR 11 - My Interior Life edit.indd 42 28/03/2011 18:05



43

Kenwood HouseKenwood House boasts not only the perfect historical setting (a Georgian villa) but a world-class art collection as well.

Among the famous works are Portrait of an Artist by Rembrandt, The Guitar Player by Vermeer and Mary, Countess Howe by Gainsborough, together with exquisite paintings by Hals, Van Dyck, Reynolds, Turner and many others.

Kenwood House has numerous rooms that can accommodate your party – the Adam Library

caters for a reception for up to 60 guests, intimate dinners can be held in your choice of the

impressive stately rooms, including the Dining Room and Music Room. For larger parties of up to 120, the Orangery has rustic charm and is ideal for drinks receptions and dining while guests can then make their way to the charming Old Kitchen

for the evening reception and dancing!english-heritage.org.uk

Wilton’s Music Hall Wilton’s is the oldest surviving Grand Music Hall in the world – wow, that’s enough to want to hold your wedding there! It belongs to the first generation of public house music halls that appeared in London during the 1850s and which, only fifty years later, had all but disappeared.

Originally 5 terraced houses, John Wilton opened Wilton’s Music Hall in 1858. Since then it has been home to the missionaries, survived two world wars, been a rag warehouse and unfortunately become derelict. Wilton’s heyday as a music hall was short-lived: just twenty-two years. Several landlords followed after John Wilton and, in 1880, performances ceased when his final successor was unable to renew the licence due to new fire regulations.

Nowadays, Wilton’s does accommodate weddings for two months of summer in the main hall; as such you’re advised to book ultra early as the venue prioritizes its performance and theatrical calendar also.

For ultra decadence, a drinks and Canapé

reception can be held on the beautiful balcony or in the

vintage-cool Mahogany bar. Luxuriously refurbished in 1828, the bar set the tone for the iconic Victorian pubs that followed, and that we know and love

today. It is said that more visiting sailors knew the

whereabouts of the famed Mahogany bar than St Paul’s

Cathedral itself!wiltons.org.uk

old finsbury town hall

wilton’s MusiC hall

KEnwood housE

CA MAR 11 - My Interior Life edit.indd 43 28/03/2011 18:05

A treasure trove of beautiful, affordable and coveted jewellery.

CLAIR GREEN sources brooches, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and a whole array of vintage jewellery from various periods of history and areas of the world. Historic pieces date from the Georgian era to 1980s. CLAIR GREEN jewellery collections include items made from sterling silver, gold, semi-precious stones, glass, bakelite, amber and many other materials. Each vintage piece is unique and has its own individual charm.

CLAIR GREEN can create classic pieces of jewellery from vintage and modern beads to compliment your wedding dress or to accessorise your bridesmaids.

Your dream dayWith magnicent grounds and an unsurpassed

beauty, Stapleford Park oers a truly magnicent backdrop for your dream day to become a reality.

Set in rolling Leiceershire countryside, Stapleford Park is every bride’s dream - whether a lavish grand wedding

reception or a more intimate service with family and friends.

Wedding Show - 25th September 2011.

If you would like further information, conta us on 01572 787000 or visit www.aplefordpark.com

Freya Rose_Clair Green_Stapleford.indd 1 29/03/2011 20:14

TO LOVE & TO

CHERISHBe dazzled by these

exquisite jewels

ABACUS BRACELET £70, GWAG.UK.COM

FIL DE COMÈTE RINGPRICE ON REQUEST,

CHANEL FINE JEWELLERY, 020 7499 0005

SAPPHIRE FLOWER PENDANT NECKLACE£45,300, BULGARI.COM,

020 7872 9969

SILVER CHERRY BLOSSOM RING WITH PEARLS AND DIAMONDS

£395 SHAUNLEANESHOP.COM 020 7405 4773

LE VAIN CHOCOLATE DROP EARRINGS

£2,399, ERNESTJONES.CO.UK

BLUE TOPAZ, GREEN TOURMALINE & RHODOLITE

EYEBRIGHT RINGS £430 - £520, ALEXMONROE.COM

CAMÉLIA EARRINGSPRICE ON REQUEST,

CHANEL FINE JEWELLERY, 020 7499 0005

ROUND FACET RING 18 CART GOLD MOONSTONE £195, MONICAVINADER.COM

PARENTESI COCKTAIL BRACELET£8,800, BULGARI.COM, 020 7872 9969

EIGHT STONE DIAMOND ETERNITY RING £2,500 ZOEANDMORGAN.COM

MONTBLANC LA DAME BLANCHE COLLECTION PENDANT

PRICE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST, MONTBLANC.COM

1950’S CAPRI DIAMANTÉ FLOWER BROOCHPRICE ON REQUEST,

CLAIR GREEN, 07884 233141

45

WEDDINGSPECIAL

CA APRIL 11 Jewellery.indd 45 28/03/2011 17:58

46

WEDDINGSPECIAL

WANT TO LOSE A FEW POUNDS FOR YOUR ALL-IMPORTANT WEDDING DAY?

i-Lipo™ is the latest in laser lipolysis, offering you a way to achieve inch loss and body contouring with no pain, no needles and no downtime!

For most of us, the idea of liposuction is too scary to entertain. We’d rather slog it out the hard way than admit to going under the knife. But the the i-Lipo treatment looks set to change our minds, due to its gentler, non-invasive approach. Here’s the science: the process emits low levels of laser energy, which creates a chemical signal in the fat cells, breaking down the stored triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol and releasing them though channels in the cell membranes.

The fatty acids and glycerol are then transported around the body to the tissues that will use them during metabolism to create energy. This transfer of fatty acid release is a natural bodily response which uses up stored energy reserves, so in effect i-Lipo does not trigger any unnatural reaction in the body or damage any surrounding structures such as skin, blood vessels and peripheral nerves. A period of exercise post-treatment will ensure the complete metabolism and thus elimination from the body of the freed fatty acids.

i-Lipo is the best way to lose inches fast and make sure you look your very best in those wedding photos! Independent clinical studies have shown i-Lipo to be comparable to results achieved by liposuction. Ultrasound imagery shows up to 30% reduction in the fat layer depth after just one treatment. Additional

treatments improve results further and results can be seen immediately after each treatment, as the fat cell contents are released.

What’s even better about the treatment is that, compared to surgical liposuction and other ultrasound or laser techniques, i-Lipo is a much more affordable option that generates similar results.

Ideal as a pre-dress fitting quick-fix, i-Lipo uses low levels of visible red laser light to create a safe and painless bio-stimulation effect in the targeted fat tissue. The results are immediate; typically a 2-4cm loss in abdomen circumference can be achieved with every treatment. A course of eight treatments is recommended over four weeks, with two treatments per week. What’s more, i-Lipo can target fat reduction in a specific problem area. By positioning the laser pads on the target areas - such as the chin, upper arms, abdomen or thighs - fat can be broken down and removed. This provides a big advantage over diet and exercise, which can reduce overall body fat but often fails to shape specific areas.

For an ultimate pampering experience, the new ‘Ultra’ vacuum massage can also be used with the i-Lipo laser treatment, to help stimulate the lymphatic system and break down stubborn fat. Once i-Lipo has released the fat cell contents, the post-treatment Ultra can assist in removing released fat and promoting skin cell renewal and blood circulation - making for healthier, firmer skin and improving the appearance of cellulite. It all amounts to the perfect pre-wedding pampering session; you could even take your bridesmaids along for a treat before the big day!

[email protected] healthspectrumclinic.com020 7377 8017

READER OFFER:Receive £150 off a full course by quoting ‘zest’ when booking

LOOK GREAT ON YOUR WEDDING DAYStand out on your big day with this ultra effective treatment for instant weight-loss

CA APRIL 11 iLIPO EDIT.indd 46 29/03/2011 17:31

“A temple of sunlight and adventurous cooking” - The Independent“Beautifully presented delicious cuisine” - View London“Truly fi rst class” - Metro

CAPONATAATA

Located in the heart of Camden Town, in a stunning RIBA award-winning building, Caponata Restaurant and The Forge Music Venue are a perfect location for your bespoke wedding reception. Caponata serves exceptional quality, home made Italian food from fresh seasonal ingredients. After meeting you our head chef will provide a delicious menu tailored to your reception, from canapés to a fi ne dining sit down meal. Specially designed with natural acoustics for live music, The Forge can provide music and a dance fl oor to complete your celebrations. Our team can advise you on the best musicians for your wedding, be it a string quartet, funk band or DJ.

ITALIAN RESTAURANT & BAR3-7 Delancey Street London NW1 7NL

020 7387 [email protected]

www.caponatacamden.co.uk

www.forgevenue.org

FORGE APRIL 11.indd 1 29/03/2011 19:47

Set in the heart of North London, a few stops away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Kassaba is everything you could want. An opulent Restaurant, Bar, Lounge and Shisha Garden, along with a dedicated royal VIP suite – all in one location.Set across two fl oors, this awe inspiring venue is a perpetual Oasis of Persian, Ottoman, Eastern and Mediterranean inspired luxury. Kassaba has taken inspiration from the very fi rst cultural fusions brought about by the legendary Conqueror: Alexander The Great, 356BC, creating an opulent ambience draped in history and infused with a modern and contemporary edge.

Kassaba’s Dome Lounge

Kassaba DPS 2.indd 48 29/03/2011 19:48

Restaurant • Bar • Lounge

Tel: 020 8340 0400 to book a table Email: [email protected] New River Avenue, London, N8 7QD

www.kassaba.co.uk

Opulent Luxury

Kassaba DPS 2.indd 49 29/03/2011 19:48

ALL DAY

LONGALL ALL ALL Sssshhhh!

25

HEALTH&BEAUTY

MAC STROBE CREAM

A LITTLE OF THE STROBE CREAM UNDER YOUR FOUNDATION

AS A MAKE-SHIFT HIGHLIGHTER ON THE CHEEKBONES WILL

GIVE YOU A GLOW WITHOUT CAUSING THE DREADED FLASH-

BACK IN PHOTOS.£21.50,

MACCOSMETICS.CO.UK

YVES SAINT LAURENT GLOSS VOLUPTE

8. ESTÉE LAUDER DOUBLE WEAR LIPSTICK WITH UP TO 12 HOUR OF STAYING POWER, DOUBLE

WEAR IS THE BEST OF THE BEST FOR KEEPING YOUR LIPS VIBRANT AND MOISTURISED ALL DAY LONG. A SMUDGE

FREE LIPPIE THAT WON’T BUDGE - SO NO EMBARRASSING LIP

STAINED WINE GLASSES! £17, HOUSEOFFRASER.CO.UK

The best long-wear make up to keep you touch-up free all day

– essential for Brides-to-be!

CLINIQUE LASH POWER LONG-

WEARING FORMULAFOR CRUMBLE AND FLAKE-FREE LASH VOLUME! £15,

CLINIQUE.CO.UK

GIORGIO ARMANI FLUID MASTER PRIMER

THIS PROVIDES A SILKY, SECOND SKIN UNDER YOUR

FOUNDATION, CREATING THE ILLUSION OF FLAWLESS SKIN.

£33, SELFRIDGES.COM

ORIGINS QUICK, HIDE! LONG-WEARING

CONCEALORA LONG-WEARING, HEAT AND

SWEAT RESISTANT CONCEALOR.£12, ORIGINS.CO.UK

BOBBI BROWN LONG-WEAR CREAM SHADOW

CREAM FORMULATION MEANS THIS WON’T BUDGE OR CREASE AND KEEPS THE SAME AMOUNT OF INTENSITY ALL DAY LONG.

£16.50, SELFRIDGES.COM

DANIEL SANDLER WATERCOLOUR BLUSH

A LIQUID BLUSH THAT SETS ON YOUR CHEEKS

WITHIN SECONDS. £14.50,

LOOKFANTASTIC.COM

GUERLAIN PRECIOUS LIGHT REJUVENATING ILLUMINATOR

ERASE AWAY THE YEARS WITH A MAGIC GOLDEN GLOW! THE ILLUMINATOR

AWAKENS THE SKIN YOUTHFULNESS WHILE BANISHING ALL SIGNS OF

FATIGUE AND THE AGGRAVATIONS OF TIME - KEEPING YOU FRESH

FACED ALL DAY.£28, HOUSEOFFRASER.CO.UK

SMASHBOX BROW TECHTHIS KIT COMES WITH A

POWDER TO MATCH YOUR HAIR COLOUR AND A

COLOURLESS WAX TO KEEP ANY STRAYS IN PLACE FOR

THE DAY.£18, DEBEHAMS.COM

– essential for Brides-to-be!

CLARINS SHINE STOPPER POWDER COMPACT

A SUPER LIGHT POWDER THAT HAS ULTRA-ABSORBING PROPERTIES TO

KEEP YOUR SKIN SHINE FREE. £24, UK.CLARINS.COM

CA APRIL 11 Beauty Product.indd 25 28/03/2011 17:45

51

“EVEN NOW, I CAN’T EAT STARBUCKS OR COSTA CAKE OR ANYTHING LIKE THAT. BACK THEN I JUST THOUGHT, WHERE IS THERE TO

GO FOR A CUP OF TEA AND A DECENT CAKE THAT’S NOT MASS PRODUCED?”

came, with Selfridges requesting a supply of her cupcakes to the store’s London, Birmingham and Manchester branches. From that moment, everything changed. Bigger and suitably equipped premises beckoned, and Allen moved her business to Primrose Hill. A little later, she was approached by Fortnum and Mason too. “It’s a real achievement because there, we’ve beaten a lot of other companies to be one of maybe five similar products on the shelf – Fortnum and Mason is all about high quality food.”

But what, I ask her, accounts for the cupcake craze of recent years?

“I think the answer is two-fold. People are attracted to the variety of flavours and colours, and I think they don’t quite feel like they’re eating a whole slice of cake!” And was Allen, like so many others, inspired by Sex and the City’s very own Magnolia Bakery? She laughs: “Totally – I visited it again recently on a trip to New York and the queues went around the corner.” She confesses though that the cakes were not up to scratch. “A lot of unnecessary decoration but lacking in substance.” How does she feel, I wonder, about the upsurge in competition? “If you’re good, you’ll stand out,” she replies, with complete confidence. “We have a 95% repeat custom rate so people are easily converted. There are some people who will always buy their cake from, say, Marks and Spencer, but if you’re after the best ingredients, if you

want the most out of your cake, then you’ll probably want to come to us.”

To further illustrate her point, she tells me a story from last year. During a spell when London had all but shutdown due to extreme winter weather, the business had cakes waiting to go out to clients – including one who was getting married that day. Faced with delays caused by stranded delivery vans, another Sweet Things regular who happened to be in the shop at the time offered to drive the wedding cake to its destination, helping to avoid a wedding day disaster.

A touching anecdote and one that shows the kind of devotion Sweet Things customers feel not just to the shop itself, but to their fellow cake-fans!

Now, of course, business is booming, though Allen believes she has benefited from her timing – it would be harder, she says, to

set up in today’s tumultuous economy. “The cost of ingredients is now so high… it’s actually quadrupled. If you are a large company you can negotiate fixed rates, and we now have some leverage, but smaller companies are priced out.” Allen must feel relieved that she capitalised on her idea when she did. But there’s little time for wondering how different things might have been, and as I leave she is about to don a hair net and oversee the development of a new product for Easter – a time of year for which her enthusiasm and excitement are obvious. “Last year we made cupcakes that looked like Easter Eggs!” she coos. Sweet Things indeed.

SWEET THINGS MADAGASCAN VANILLA CUPCAKES110g butter, softened110g caster sugar110g plain fl our2 eggs1 tsp baking powder½ tsp Madagascan vanilla extractUp to 2 tbsp milk if necessary

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees fan/200 degrees C/gas mark 6.

2. Cream butter and sugar with a hand mixer or bowl and wooden spoon!

3. Mix fl our and baking powder in a bowl.

4. Mix eggs and vanilla in another bowl.

5. Now beat in some eggs to the butter and sugar mix, then some fl our, alternating until all is mixed, fi nishing with fl our last. Add milk until dropping consistency is achieved.

Alternatively, place all cake ingredients except milk in a food processor and cream together. Add enough milk until mixture is dropping consistency.

6. Using an ice cream scoop or 2 spoons, spoon mixture into 12 or so cupcake cases until ¾ full.

7. Put in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cupcakes are golden on top. Allow cupcakes to cool on a wire rack.

8. Ice with vanilla or chocolate buttercream and decorate with mini eggs!

SWEET THINGS 3 TOP TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL BAKING:1. All ingredients at room temperature – (microwave butter and milk if necessary)2. Preheat oven fully3. Use good quality, natural ingredients

3 CUPCAKE FACTS1. Vogue magazine claimed that

owning a cupcake bakery is the career fantasy of our times.

2. Google has pronounced the cupcake the fastest-rising recipe search in the UK.

3. One cupcake fan page on Facebook has more than 250,000 members.

FOOD&DRINK

CA APRIL 11 Food and Drink INTERVIEW.indd 51 28/03/2011 18:18

wedding supplement april 2011

Documents

unique wedding

wedding branch

wedding special

wedding issue

wedding planning wasnt

wedding supplement cover

big white wedding

bespoke wedding photography