We're thrilled to announce an incredible £3,000 Wedding Dress Giveaway from the renowned Avenue Collection by Josephine Scott Bridal, a headline sponsor of The Northern Wedding Show.

This is your chance to say "YES" to the dress of your dreams without a single worry about the price tag

But hurry—this opportunity is as exclusive as the gowns themselves…

About Avenue by Josephine Scott Bridal

With a fresh wave of modernity running through every single creation, this new collection from this British label embodies a woman-led, high fashion feel that puts the bride at the core of everything, from its high-quality fabrics and slow fashion approach to bespoke styling and inspirational customisable options.

Her new designs are for women who prefer to write their own bridal fashion narrative with designs that boast avant garde flourishes. Standout statement bridal style and a luxe look that flows seamlessly from day to night is embodied within this incredible portfolio of gowns. Mini or maxi - minimal or dramatic - there’s a style to suit in this diverse range.

Brides will have the opportunity to see the splendour of her creations as they debut on the catwalk at the show via local stockist and exhibitor at the show The Wedding Dress Company in Corbridge

We caught up with Josephine about her dream creations and trends..

How you choose fabrics to work with? As a designer, why do you think a bride must care about the cut and fabric of her gown? 

Luxury is about a feeling as much as a look, which is how I choose the fabrics. They are also lightweight to allow movement and generous layers, which gives an extra element of elegance and sophistication.

A top trend you can see emerging in bridal fashion in 2025? 

Corsetry – women are beginning to see and feel the benefits of a fully constructed gown again, as well as appreciating the beauty of a simple gown, cut well and enhanced by a beautifully cut corset

WE HAVE WORKED WITH JOSEPHINE FOR A COUPLE OF YEARS NOW AT BELLE BRIDAL - HER GOWNS HAVE GRACED THE COVER OF OUR ESTEEMED PUBLICATION - TO BE ABLE TO GIFT SOMETHING SO BEAUTIFUL TO ONE LUCKY WINNER IS AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY AND WE ARE THRILLED TO HAVE SUCH AN IMPECCABLE DESIGNER GRACE OUR CATWALK AND PROVIDE THIS PRIZE.

KAREN BELLE, EDITOR BELLE BRIDAL MAGAZINE

The post Win Your Dream Wedding Dress from Josephine Scott Bridal at The Northern Wedding Show appeared first on Belle Bridal Magazine.

Knowing your partner's preferences can help, but if you're completely in the dark, let us light up your inspiration. And, in a year where Tallulah Willis (daughter of Demi Moore) broke the internet by announcing her engagement with an incredible 1910s elongated emerald cut ring (which is expected to be worth a whopping $500,000, FYI), emerald cuts have never been more sought-after.

Speaking to Jemma of Dytham Jewellery, the luxury Northern jewellers on our Guest List, she has an idea of why this may be...

Q: What is an emerald cut? A: "It a rectangular shape with chiseled step cuts and straight linear facets."
Q: How much do they usually cost? A: "This all depends on the size, clarity and colour."
Q: What makes it so special? 

 EMERALD CUTS ARE SPECIAL DUE TO THEIR CLEAN LINES AND SYMMETRY. IT IS SAID THAT ONLY 3% OF THE DIAMONDS IN THE WORLD ARE EMERALD CUT.

JEMMA, DYTHAM JEWELLERY

Check out these beautiful emerald cuts that Dytham have commissioned for their customers. They offer a truly bespoke service allowing you design your own ring from start to finish.

And if you want to shop now, these ten beautiful emerald cut rings are ready to buy from a selection of our Guest List jewellers and online stores, and are certified to amaze. After all, they are a girl's best friend, right?

Elegant soul-seekers will love this triple threat of diamond diva-ville.

Maybe you want to bring the bling...

...Or make them green with envy?

Maybe it's blue just for you.

Or perhaps it's pink to make them wink...

Whatever your vibe, you'll find the most magical array of engagement rings and luxury wedding jewellery in our Supplier Guest List and the fully shoppable pages of our brand new online edition. Unearth some real gems and let your style shine, just like our gal Tallulah... (we wish!)

The post 10 Emerald Cut Engagement Rings To Swoon Over appeared first on Belle Bridal Magazine.

1. Ask Father (or Guardian’s) permission.

Now this might feel a bit old and traditional, however, chances are it will be really important to her dad.
I know it’s a bit daunting but not only is it a great bonding experience, but you’ll probably gain some respect from him in the process (that’s his baby girl remember)… and it’s ALWAYS best to get on with your ‘in-laws’ to-be!

2. Make sure her Nails are done

Again, this might sound silly to you… but in this age of social media you know she’s going to want to get straight on instagram and post a thousand pictures of that beautiful ring that you spent ages saving up for!
So, make sure those nails are manicured to perfection. You could send her on a pamper day in advance as a little treat beforehand, earn some brownie points at the same time (two birds one stone and all that!).
Or if you’re worried about tipping her off, enlist the help of a friend of family member.
Make sure it’s someone you trust, who can keep their mouth shut… you wouldn’t want them spilling the beans. I’ve got the biggest mouth (as my friends will definitely tell you) and I’m the worst liar… so don’t come asking me!

3. Get down on one knee

It’s silly… but it’s important to us.
Apparently according to ‘Engagement Ring Bible’ Knight’s used to do it in front of their lords as a display of respect, obedience and loyalty… no wonder we like it so much!

4. Use their FULL NAME!

This is the one time we ask you to be serious and show that you mean it.
And, let’s not lie… if you don’t know their full name, you probably shouldn’t be asking the question! (Unless you’re drunk and in Vegas or course!).

5. Get a Photo

Or go one better and get it on video (like Mr T did!)
It’s SUCH a special moment in your lives… we want it documented so we can show every single person we know!

You’ll notice there is nothing about engagement rings in here… I’m a massive believer in the fact that if your man proposes to you, and he’s the one, it doesn’t matter if it’s even just a Haribo ring… if you love him you’ll say yes!
And some couples like to choose their engagement rings together. What a brilliant shopping day that would be! A great idea for the girls who are SUPER particular and would prefer to have a say in their ‘frosting’.
So that’s it! Those are the 5 ‘rules’ if you like.
Now I’m sure you already thought of all these things yourself, but it’s handy to have a little checklist to make you feel as prepared as possible for that big moment!
If you’re the one waiting for the question to be popped, feel free to send this post to your partner as a massive HINT… that’s definitely what I would do!
And whoever is doing the proposing… Good Luck!
(and let me know how it goes!)
Lots of Love,
Mrs T x

Taylored To You

Having worked in the industry for over 8 years (and chaperoned over 400 wonderful weddings!) Northern lass Hannah Taylor (Mrs T) has built up an inherent passion for all things marriages, and simply, loves love.
To find out more about her and how her bespoke consultation service can help quash those big day nerves and get you aisle-ready, head to her dedicated Guest List portfolio here!

The post The 5 Rules of Engagement – Tips For Proposing To Your Significant Other appeared first on Belle Bridal Magazine.

TikTok proposal

Blogger, Lottie Lamour went above and beyond to propose to her girlfriend Emma – amidst the Coronavirus lockdown.

So, as an antidote to all the #COVID19 stuff, I did this today on @tiktok_uk pic.twitter.com/NjrzwijQKQ

— lottie l’amour (@Lottie_Lamour) March 19, 2020

She transformed their shared flat into a treasure hunt, leaving her fiancé-to-be with ‘Reasons Why I Love You’ notes and the finale resulted in a proposal. The big ‘twist’ to the proposal – Lottie filmed the entire event and showcased it to the world via her TikTok channel.

Influencer engagement

Blogger and influencer, Em Clarkson surprised her 64k followers at the weekend with the news of her engagement. Her long-term love popped the question in the countryside – social distancing at its best!

View this post on Instagram

 

Well, shit!!!! @alexandrew.1

A post shared by Emily Clarkson (@em_clarkson) on Mar 20, 2020 at 4:46am PDT

Iceland supermarket proposal

With many flights out of the UK cancelled, sadly any plans for far-flung proposals are on hold. Or are they? One plucky couple gave shoppers a reason to smile at the Tonbridge Iceland supermarket.
He had planned to propose in Iceland but as their holiday was cancelled, he chose the next best thing!

Congratulations to these two - they got engaged at our Tonbridge store this week

He had planned to propose in Iceland but as their holiday was cancelled, he chose the next best thing
Enjoy your honeymoon to Iceland on us #NewsWeNeed pic.twitter.com/gALIAS7L0G
— Iceland Foods (@IcelandFoods) March 20, 2020

Coronavirus couple have wedding brought forward

An engaged couple due to marry over the Easter weekend made a mad dash to the altar to get hitched on the 18th March, a whopping four weeks before their original wedding date after their church announced it was going into lockdown due to the coronavirus.
Director Jess Whitfield, of Winsor Bishop Jewellers, from Norfolk, received a call from their vicar, advising the church was closing its doors at 6pm – and she brought the wedding forward with just four hours’ notice, marrying the same day before the 6pm cut off!

View this post on Instagram

 

TRUE LOVE CONQUERS ALL: Amid the chaos of the Coronavirus, today we celebrated some much needed happy news. WB Director Jess brought forward her upcoming nuptials with just 4 hours notice yesterday evening when they heard the news that the church would be closing! At 5.55pm, Jess & Andrew signed the register before the 6pm cut off after a small, intimate service. We wish them both a lifetime of happiness and love, from all of us at Winsor Bishop . . . #winsorbishop #lovestories #marriage #wedding #surprisewedding #truelove #positivevibes #happiness #celebrate #loveisallyouneed #weddingrings #justmarried #norfolkwedding #norwich #nuptials #weddinginspiration #norfolk #covıd19 #guntonarms

A post shared by Winsor Bishop (@winsorbishop) on Mar 18, 2020 at 6:39am PDT

See www.laceandfvour.com

Fore more wedding inspiration take a look at the rest of our blog or download the latest issue of Belle Bridal Magazine now available on the Google Play and App Store.

The post At-Home Proposals from Self-Isolating Couples: Love Really Does Conquer All appeared first on Belle Bridal Magazine.

New for 2020, the luxurious Barbados resort, for the first time in their 25 year history, Royal Westmoreland is launching their complimentary proposal service to help you propose this month… and for a limited time only they’re offering 30% off selected accommodation!

Breathless in Barbados

It’s no secret that the tropical paradise of Barbados is stunning. Whether it’s taking in panoramics of the clear, sun-kissed ocean from world-renowned restaurant The Cliff, or just relaxing with your loved one in style at the opulent Royal Westmoreland resort, this Caribbean gem has boundless sensational offerings.

By Land or By Sea

Enamoured by the warm, sandy beaches of the Caribbean? Ask them for their hand over a backtrack of gently lapping waves on the tranquil Mullins Beach.

Alternatively, chase the horizon with a sunset sail on a calm ocean with a Catamaran cruise and toast to a long and happy future together.

Moving inland and one of Barbados’s many botanical gardens or the impressive Animal Flower Caves are ideal proposal settings for the nature-loving couples – and those looking for a lush, Instagram-able backdrop.

The Resort

Nestled on the islands prestigious platinum coast, guests staying at Royal Westmoreland can live the dream with world class golf facilities, private beaches and stunning luxury properties; which in itself already curates an effortlessly romantic setting.

The Personal Touch

From scoping out the most indescribable sunset spots, to making a reservation at one of the many fine-dining eateries on the island… or even just being on-hand as your own personal paparazzi for when you pop the big question, your own Royal Westmoreland’s dedicated Proposal Expert will help take the stress out of the experience.

To find out more about Royal Westmoreland, their limited time offers and their proposal service please visit their website, call or email. For more wedding and engagement ideas take a look at our Real Wedding pages or browse the glossy pages of our regional magazine.

Web.: https://royalwestmoreland.com
Tel.: 01524 917 317
Email: royalwestmoreland@hatchpr.co.uk

***Sponsored Post***

The post Breathless in Barbados: Royal Westmoreland's Dedicated Proposal Service appeared first on Belle Bridal Magazine.

Rubies

As far as beautiful alternatives to diamond engagement rings go, you can’t get much more perfect than rubies. The stone rivals diamonds in both its rich historyand its rarity. Symbolically speaking, many believe the stone helps open up hearts and promote love. While all rubies are relatively rare, the Burma Ruby is the way to go if you want a truly unique and rare gemstone.

Sapphires

Where the ruby has a regal history, the sapphireis the gem myths are made of. From Ancient Egypt to Greece, this stunning stone has mingled with deities. Back on earth and in modern times, it’s a symbol for faithfulness, truth, reliability and wisdom. In other words, all of the traits that make for a strong marriage.

Amethyst

Since it’s such a low-cost stone, amethystoften gets overlooked when considering alternatives to diamond engagement rings. It’s a shame because it’s really a pretty stone with beautiful symbolism. Where the ruby is all about fiery love and passion, the amethyst is more about peace and contentment.

Rainbow Moonstone (aka Labradorite)

The Rainbow Moonstone is neither a rainbow stone nor an actual moonstone. Rather, it’s a type of labradorite that gives off a rainbow sheen. They make beautiful lesbian wedding rings, both because of the rainbow symbolism and the stone’s meaning itself. Labradorite is believed to be connected to the feminine divine.

Turquoise

In cultures all over the world, turquoise is valued as a good luck stone. Native North and South American tribes from the Apache to the Aztec valued the stone even more than gold. In fact, the Apache believed that you would find turquoise at the end of a rainbow, not a pot of gold. However, there’s one other meaning that makes it a perfect diamond alternative- it’s a symbol of hope.

Pearl

Pearls are one of the most prized gemstones in the world, ranking up there with diamonds, rubies and emeralds. Did you know, however, that they’re not actually stones? The totally organic material forms when oysters, mussels or clams sense an invader into their happy little shell home. They release a fluid that fends off the irritant, which builds up into a pearl. Natural pearls are among the rarest gems and will cost a pretty penny (even more than a diamond). However, cultured pearls are plentiful and relatively inexpensive.

Morganite

Often- and inaccurately- called the pink emerald, the morganite is gaining in popularity as an engagement stone. It’s a beautiful alternative for those who want something a little more colorful than the crystal-clear diamond or milky white pearl yet subtler than the flashy ruby, emerald, or sapphire. These gorgeous stones don’t come cheap, though, and given their rarity, they’re only going to get more expensive in the future.

Apatite

Like Amethyst, Apatite is often overlooked as a diamond alternative because it’s not exactly a rare or expensive gem. It is, however, uncommon to find in jewelry stores, so in that respect it’s a rather unique choice that’s perfect for a unique couple. The stone represents the blending of an old life with a new one, which is exactly what a marriage is all about.

Emerald

A more traditional stone than those above, the emeraldsymbolizes royalty, wit and wisdom. It was also a favorite of Cleopatra, who donned her palace with them and gave them out as gifts to friends. The vibrant green stone pairs well with diamonds for those who want to mix in a little tradition.

 Alexandrite

While natural alexandrite is rarer than the rarest diamond, the synthetic version is just as beautiful and valuable. As it was only just discovered in the 19thcentury, it doesn’t have the rich history of the other stones on this list. It’s a symbol for luck, good fortune and love, making it a fantastic diamond engagement ring alternative.
Remember, there’s no rule that says you have to wear a diamond engagement ring. In fact, there’s no rule that says you have to wear any gemstone on your finger to prove your devotion to each other. So, feel free to go with what makes you and your true love happy, whether that’s a sparkly diamond, a vibrant emerald, or just a piece of twine tied around your ring finger!
About the Author: Nicole Etolen is a writer and editor at Love You Wedding, a site dedicated to helping LGBTQ couples plan the wedding of their dreams.

*** Sponsored Post ***

The post Ten Beautiful Alternatives to Diamond Engagement Rings appeared first on Belle Bridal Magazine.

Images by Ewa Labuda Photography

The post A Beautiful Bay Shoot For Stephanie and Dominic appeared first on Belle Bridal Magazine.

The post A Pre-Wedding Shoot For Caroline And Lewis appeared first on Belle Bridal Magazine.

The post The Most Popular Places To Propose appeared first on Belle Bridal Magazine.

Amazing...

The post Alfred Hitchcock Style Pre-Wedding Shoot! appeared first on Belle Bridal Magazine.