Summer’s in full swing – and, fingers crossed, our weddings will be too! Our August-September edition is bursting with ideas for blockbuster big days as the last of the restrictions lift. From killer outfits for Mum to an almighty bridal trend update, we’ve got fashion in the bag, plus arty venues to leave your stamp on and golden advice from brides and grooms. Crack out a cocktail and read the digital issue here
The prospect of ‘normal’ all-singing, all-dancing weddings seems tantalisingly close right now, with early August mooted for Scotland to move beyond Level 0.
While there’s no doubt we are jumping for joy at the end of enforced restrictions, our summer issue poses the question that’s on everyone’s mind: are there any knock-on effects of the pandemic that might actually be worth keeping? Industry insiders have their say. (Clue: ceremony streaming is going nowhere…)
Usually, we’d spend the first half of the year fawning over the brand-new collections, but lockdown boutique closures robbed us (and indeed many of you) of that pleasure! If you’re feeling out the loop, you’ll want to read our latest trend update to see which details, fabrics and features will get you buzzing about going dress shopping again – think puffed sleeves, gigantic bows and satin making a surprise comeback. Plus, Scotland’s stores nominate their favourite designers of the moment. Get swotting.
And it’s not just the bride’s wardrobe we’ve given thought to… it’s mama’s turn for the spotlight! No matter if she’s a loud-and-proud size 22 or a shy-and-retiring 10, chances are she’ll spot an outfit she loves in our occasionwear special. Some of the best boutiques in the country tell us why 2021 is the year of the statement dress and showcase their favourite looks on friends and family in this edition’s lush mother of the bride/groom photoshoot.
The boys aren’t forgotten about either: check out statement kilts and bold colour combinations for grooms, as well as the season’s most eye-catching accessories, captured against outfitters’ exclusive tartans.
As for the most important part of your planning – finding that venue – we’ve got you covered. If wedmin is your worst nightmare, we’ve rounded up a series of venues with all-singing, all dancing packages to take care of every single aspect for you, busting stress and leaving you to actually enjoy your planning. Or, if you’re all about the aesthetics, then we’ve got a painter’s palette’s worth of spectacular arty, architectural gems for you to get hitched in.
Our seven real weddings are a treasure-trove of inspiration too. And we really do mean inspiration – the majority of our couples this issue, as you’d expect, had to battle with multiple Covid curveballs in their planning journey, but didn’t let that stop them celebrating their love, their way. One new Mrs shares her tips for organising a long-haul big day, while another reveals the secret to staying stress-free while planning: get the groom to do it all!
Pick up the August-September issue at larger supermarkets and selected retailers, read it here for free or treat yourself to a subscription for just £18.