Editor loves and inspiration

Charlotte and Matthew met on a spontaneous night out in Newcastle. “I spotted Matthew across the dancefloor and made an unsuspecting approach, wing-womaned by a friend,” says Charlotte. “We hit it off and the rest is history.”

Matthew proposed to Charlotte on their five-year anniversary in Tynemouth, where they had their first date. “Matthew intended to propose at the end of the pier next to the priory, but when we got to the end, three fishermen drinking cans of beer killed the moment somewhat,” shares the bride. “On our way back, Matthew spotted a quiet space on the pier and surprised me. An even bigger surprise was when we returned to Matthew’s parent’s house to celebrate and my parents were also there, having secretly travelled up from Cheshire.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournortheast.wedding/free-download

A team of local suppliers worked together to create this styled shoot at Michelangelo’s.

See more from the styled shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournortheast.wedding/free-download

We Interviewed Claire Hunt From Claire’s Classy Cake Shop to find out more about her business.

Q – Tell us about your background – how did you become a cake maker? I used to make birthday cakes for my children and I went on to make them for family and friends. I wasn’t happy with the job I was doing, so I decided to set up a business and I have never looked back.

Q – What should couples expect when booking your services? Couples should expect a top-quality cake from me, excellent customer service that provides advice, all the information they need and the peace of mind that they can get in touch at any time to discuss their cake and if any changes need to be made, this can be done.

Meet more local cake companies in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournortheast.wedding/free-download

The Exchange 1856 has completed its seven-figure refurbishment programme. The Victorian building, which is located on Howard Street in the heart of the Cultural Quarter, is one of North Tyneside’s most stunning architectural landmarks.

Every area of The Exchange 1856 has been updated and improved to create a spectacular and glamorous interior. Original architectural features such as fireplaces, ornate architraves and stained-glass windows have been restored to their former glory and complemented with high-quality fixtures and fittings, new flooring and panelling in soft heritage colours, in keeping with the overall character of the building.

See more news in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournortheast.wedding/free-download

Ashleigh and Joe met by chance. “It all started with an encounter in Yates, Hartlepool, after I had been out in Newcastle for the day for my friend’s birthday,” says Ashleigh. “Joe had been out with his dad and they decided to have a cheeky stop in town before heading home. When one of the best mixes came on over the speakers, a dance off broke out with boys vs girls. Joe saw his chance to take the centre of the circle, but little did he know that I would break out into dance and steal the show. A few weeks after our chance encounter, we crossed paths again on Tinder, and as we recognised each other, we started talking and eventually organised our first date.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournortheast.wedding/free-download

You said ‘yes’, the ring is on your finger, so what’s next? The dress, of course! For many brides-to-be it’s one of the most exciting parts of the wedding journey and it’s tempting to rush out to the shops straight away and start trying on gorgeous gowns. After all, it’s not every day you get the chance, right? Not wanting to sound like a killjoy, but taking the time to do your homework first can help you avoid costly mistakes. There are many factors to take into account to make sure your dress is not only the right fit for you, but that it ties in with the style and feel of your day. The time of year, type of ceremony and the venue are all key considerations, as well as the kind of entertainment you’re planning. To help give you some inspiration, we’ve asked Rare Bridal Studio to share of its favourite winter dresses.

See more stunning dresses in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournortheast.wedding/free-download

Make-up artist Kirsten Baillie tells us how to create a winter-inspired look.

"Although your wedding is not usually the best time to start trying something wildly different from your regular look, a winter wedding is a great opportunity to play around with some new make-up tones.

"I would advise booking a make-up trial with your chosen artist; this will give you a chance to discuss your ideas and plan a look that suits your complexion.

"Richer colours can look beautiful during the winter; think shimmering warm bronze or antique gold eyeshadows. These shades are flattering on most skin tones and look natural while still being a bit different."

See more top tips in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournortheast.wedding/free-download

Jess and Ryan first met when they were 15 and 16 years old. “Ryan has never failed to make me laugh and has given me belly giggles since we met,” says Jess. “We have been through every big life event together, such as first jobs and cars, and unlike many childhood sweethearts that sometimes grow apart, we grew up together and remained close.”

Ryan proposed on a mountain in Lake Garda in 2018. “He got it all on video and it was magical,” shares the bride. “It was a complete surprise and Italy has since become our favourite destination.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournortheast.wedding/free-download

Kay and Kenny met at a soul night. “On our first date, Kenny wanted an informal vibe, so we wined and dined me at our local Wetherspoons’ curry night!” says Kay. “I knew then he was a keeper! He also makes me laugh and is an amazing cook, which was definitely the way to my heart.”

Kenny proposed after 14 years together. “By now we had two children and had spoken about getting married in the past, but nothing ever came of it,” remembers the bride. “It was a huge surprise when Kenny proposed by writing a cryptic ‘WYMM’? in a Christmas card I opened on Christmas Day 2022. It was a lovely morning; we drank lots of buck’s fizz before getting ready for the day.”

See more from their wedding in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournortheast.wedding/free-download

These images organised by wedding planning company Amelia Ray Events show how incredible a castle wedding can be.

See more from the styled shoot in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yournortheast.wedding/free-download