Planning a wedding is a massive task and it can be difficult to find companies that are reliable, provide excellent customer service and are also competitive with their prices. As larger companies often take the limelight within the wedding supplier 'scene' it can be difficult for smaller companies to get themselves recognised. Smaller companies however are able to provide much more of a bespoke service and in many cases, much better customer service. The aim of this post is to highlight the small businesses that are on our doorstep and ready to help you in any way they can to create the wedding of your dreams. We have tried to cover each area of wedding planning and hope you will find this 'Midlothian Wedding Guide' useful.
The ring is on the finger, and it it time for the wedding planning to commence……
Venue
The first stage is to organise your wedding venue. Our recommended venue is Dalhousie Castle, a real 13th century Scottish Castle, set within break taking grounds, situated on the edge of Bonnyrigg. This the perfect venue for both large scale and more intimate weddings. Here is a video about Dalhousie and some words from one of their sales executives, Corina.
'Our wedding planning is bespoke for the bride and groom and we usually have a first initial showround and chat about how they imagine their day to be and we tailor a package together for them.
Highlights are definitely our chapel in the castle walls, open air terrace with views of the grounds, our owl ring deliveries and our grounds for those everlasting wedding albums!
Guests always comment on the personal service both before and on the big day and our castle piper Andrew who has been the castle piper for over 30 years adds a unique addition to their special day. Our wedding planners Hannah Wood and Nicola Morton are going the extra mile for our weddings and our Banqueting team overseen by our Banqueting manager Damian Rautenbach make the wedding day smooth, enjoyable and unforgettable for the couple.
A lot of guests comment not only on the special service but also on the homeliness and extensive castle history which is visible everywhere and offers great space to discover.
Every bedroom is also individually designed with a castle theme so every guest feels extra special when staying over. Our two honeymoon suites offer beautiful surroundings for the bridal party to get ready and a romantic resting place for the wedding night.'
Corina Pfieffer, Sales Executive.
What I love about Dalhousie, is that the prices are quite clear in their brochure and there is also the menu provided so you can start making some decisions straight away. There are a range of prices too to allow for different budgets. For more details, have a read through their wedding brochure and visit their website.
Photographer
When choosing a photographer, it is important to look at their previous work to see if their 'style' of photography matches your preferences. Many couples opt now for something much more fun and imaginative that the 'traditional' type of photographs, or perhaps traditional photographs with a twist. One such innovative photographer is Sean Bell based in Dalkeith. He has many years of wedding experience and his gallery of wedding images demonstrate his artistic flare. Here is a little bit more about Sean and examples of his work.
I studied photography and film in Edinburgh until 2001 and have been a professional photojournalist and Edinburgh Wedding Photographer ever since.
I have worked for many of the UK national newspapers, agencies and magazines both as a staff photographer and as a freelance and over the last 12 years I have enjoyed covering thousands of wild and varied editorial assignments from News and Sport to Fashion, Features and the Arts.
I feel this past experience is an asset for any good wedding photographer.
Ive always been driven to create, whether through drawing, writing music or photography, so to be able to do this for a living and to be part of the biggest day in people's lives is a privilege I never take for granted!
I enjoy observing and capturing the moments, melding into the background and creating images of the subtleties, the details and the fun.
I work quickly and unobtrusively, making classic, contemporary and relaxed images with a minimal of fuss, allowing the day to just flow!
Over the years Ive learned a lot, not only about my chosen craft but about life and love, people, their stories and their families.Ive listened and learned and Ive made friends, for that I feel very lucky.
I live just outside of Edinburgh, Scotland and work throughout the UK and Europe.
When I'm not working I enjoy music, the great outdoors, running, climbing and biking.. but I'm never very far away from my cameras, we seem to be joined at the hip!
If you would like to share your ideas for photography on your wedding day and to see if we could work together it would be great to meet up for a coffee or have a wee chat over Skype/Phone, I'd love to hear your story..
Sean Bell
Prices for Sean's attendance at your wedding are on his website and start from £1000. For full details and to get in touch with Sean, visit his website.
Cars
The next aspect of your wedding that will need booked as soon as you have your date available is your transport. Nothing says 'Wedding' more than a beautiful vintage car. Ecosse Classic Cars based in Rosewell have a vast range of cars to choose from. Here is a little more about them and some of their cars.
The cars that Ecosse Classic Wedding Cars provide are bespoke. They are not kit cars made to look old, but are the original genuine article. We are passionate and enthusiastic about ensuring vintage and classic cars, are not solely for private museums, but are used for the purpose they were designed. All our cars are in stunning condition and well maintained. All the cars we use for weddings are owned by Ecosse Classic Wedding cars.
Your chosen vehicle will be solely for your use on the wedding day. We never book two weddings on the same day, and as such are flexible should the timings change once a car has been booked.
Your car will of course be immaculately presented, as will your driver. On taking your booking we will seek an indication of what services you wish our driver to provide, and will consider the finer transport details, such as the need for child seats, whether any guest has a disability or is infirm.
We are happy to decorate the vehicle, provide refreshment, or provide any other service which you require within reason. We will contact you the week before the wedding to finalise these plans. If you wish, we are happy to work directly with a wedding co-ordinator.
Our vehicles are available to view in our new showroom at Gourlaw Filters near Rosewell, where you will receive a warm welcome. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have and allow you to peruse our vehicles at your leisure with no obligation. We have an open viewing at Gourlaw each Sunday from 2-4pm where customers can turn up without appointment, and are open all other days other than a Monday.
Prices for the beautiful cars from Ecosse Classic Cars start from £245. For more details, to see their full range of cars and to book, visit their website.
Wedding Band/Piper
Once you have your date secured, it is also advisable to book your musicians as soon as you can as these do get booked up quickly. The featured band (who actually played at my own wedding) are Bon Accord Ceilidh band who can provide both the ceilidh and the disco sections of your wedding. Here is a little more about this highly recommended band.
The Bon Accord Ceilidh Band is well
established and respected in the Edinburgh and surrounding area and is
recommended by many prestigious venues, comprising castles, hotels and stately
homes, for all occasions.
We are a three piece band comprising
Paul and Ian on accordion and Hector on drums, also calling the dances. A
fiddler can also be added. The provision of an up to date disco by our DJ Paul,
with lighting rigs and a very good PA system add another option to your
evening’s entertainment.
The band's present line up has been
together for many years and have a totally professional approach to all aspects
of any function, be it a small party, a large specialised wedding or an
extravagant corporate function. If you are planning a special occasion, then
using people who are specialists is definitely the only choice.
The Bon Accord Ceilidh Band will
provide a great evening's entertainment for your guests, by walking through
various, original Scottish dances, everyone from complete novices with two left
feet, can get on the floor and have a brilliant time.
If a whole evening of dancing seems too
much then the disco just rounds off the night perfectly.
I can actually add a personal recommendation for this band, as they played at my wedding 6 years ago. They were absolutely excellent. There was a perfect balance between the amount of ceilidh dancing and disco, and we were even given the chance to select all our own music for the disco.
For more details of Bon Accord and to book, visit their website.
The perfect addition to any Scottish wedding has to be a piper. Whether this is is to pipe the bride down the aisle, play for guests outside the wedding venue or to pipe the newly married couple in to their wedding breakfast, nothing quite compares to the haunting sound of the bagpipes. In Midlothian, we are very fortunate to have to have the highly experienced Piper Scott from SCOTPIPE. Here is a little more about Scott with photos of previous weddings he has played at in full dress.
SCOTPIPE was created by myself, Scott Duncan, in order to offer a professional bagpiping service both in Scotland and throughout the world.
I became pipe major of my local community pipe band at the age of 16, before I started performing as a solo bagpiper at various weddings and events, which has grown over the last 15 years to managing my own pipe band.
I have extensive experience of playing at different occasions including weddings and funerals, New Year celebrations, live concerts, product launches, sporting events and various charity functions, as well as regularly performing for the Scottish Government at Edinburgh Castle.
I have also performed for British royalty in Edinburgh, as well as being personally selected to play for Pope Benedict XVI on his visit to Scotland in 2010.
Over the years I have formed my own band the SCOTPIPE band, to help me offer mini and full pipe bands for events, where a greater impact is needed than I could offer myself.
I believe in only providing the highest service, which is why I always wear the full traditional ceremonial Scottish bagpiping outfit, unless specifically requested to wear the less formal ‘No 2’ outfit. Please be aware many other pipers do not have these outfits, or charge more for them, where I believe that you should only get the best without having to pay extra for it.
Prices do vary depending on the package you wish to book from SCOTPIPE, so it is best to get in contact with your requirements for a quote. For more details, visit their website.
Wedding Stationery
Here at LE Designs, we believe that your wedding stationery is such an important aspect of your wedding day, as it is the first glimpse your wedding guests get into the kind of wedding you are going to be having. It sets a precedence for your day. We like to discuss in detail with the Bride and Groom what kind of stationery they would like. All ideas can be catered for - we offer a completely bespoke service for all Brides and Grooms. Your stationery should include a bit of your personality and we will strive to include this for you. We have been very fortunate to have been the stationer of choice for a variety of weddings, ranging in the amount of stationery we have provided for them- from simply just the Wedding Invitations, right up to the full Wedding Stationery Package- Invitations, Table Names, Table Plans, Guest Name Table Tags, Guest Book and Menus.
We are able to do as little or as much as you wish.
Here are some examples of our work.
For the above Bride and Groom, we were undertaking the whole wedding package for them. The Bride was from England and the Groom from Scotland and so they wanted something that could fuse the two together, just like their marriage.
In order to fulfil this concept, a wild Thistle was sought and planted in my garden alongside a cream Rose. The two flower heads were brought together and photographed. The colours were enhanced in photoshop and this photo then became the basis for each of the stationery items. The Bridesmaid dresses were to be a plum shade and this was incorporated into the design by way of a matching shaded ribbon and plum background card.
The above Bride and Groom wanted something very simple and classic. The Groom was to be wearing his family tartan but this unfortunately was very difficult to obtain in satin ribbon. The decision was made therefore to use the Bride's tartan instead and this worked perfectly.
The Bride and Groom were so delighted with their invitations that they approached me to create a bespoke guest book for them using Vinyl records…The photos of this can't be shared yet as their wedding has not taken place yet and I couldn't spoil the surprise for any of their guests!
If you are interested in our bespoke invitation service, then please do get in touch. Even if you are on a tight budget, we can work to what you want to pay.
Contact us via ledesignsboutique@icloud.com
Wedding Cake
The wedding cake is another aspect that takes careful consideration. What sponge, what shape, how many tiers, which decorations are all questions that need answered. Thankfully, the very experienced Carol -Anne will be able to give you guidance on all of these aspects and also create the most amazing cake for you. Here is a some more information about Carol-Anne's company, The Little Cake House based in Bonnyrigg.
The
Little Cake House celebrated 1 year in business on 1st July
2015. I have always been interested in
baking, cooking, decorating from a very young age. My father was a chef and we were all
encouraged to help out in the kitchen.
I was
unfortunately made redundant in November 2013 and after a few months thinking
what to do next I took the giant step to set up in business as “The Little Cake
House”
I work
from a studio in my home. I am fully
registered with Midlothian Council and have all the relevant Health and Safety
checks. I am also registered with HMRC.
If you
want information on a wedding cake from The Little Cake House please contact me
through my Facebook Page or email me at thelittlecakehouse7@yahoo.com
or telephone 07759426619. My Website is
under construction at www.LittleCakeHouse.scot
All cakes
are individually priced and I would suggest you pop in for a consultation and
to taste some cake.
For more details, visit The Little Cake House's Facebook page.
Wedding Favours
Wedding favours are an age old tradition and are a way to say thank you to your guests for attending your wedding. Traditionally, sugared almonds were the favour of choice given, but nowadays, people opt for something a bit more exciting. A beautiful Wedding Favour idea is brought to you by Nicky at Lavender's Green, a handmade soap company based in Bonnyrigg. Here is Nicky to tell you a little more about her company and give examples of favours for your guests.
Welcome to Lavender's Green. If you are looking for handmade products made with natural ingredients, but without preservatives in a range that goes from fresh and zesty to calm and soothing...you've come to the right place! At Lavender's Green, every one of our products is lovingly created, wrapped and packaged by our own fair hands so that you can have confidence when you put them on yours!
Lavender's Green is my business, it was started because as a Mum I wanted my family to use only pure soap products, made with natural ingredients and no additives, to see if it would help their eczema or psoriasis ... Oh, and I enjoy making things!
There’s no mass production here, I make all the products myself by hand and I only use the best and purest ingredients, for instance all products are made with essential oils rather than “fragrances” .
I do however, make sure that all my recipes and products are properly tested and are in compliance with current EU Regulations
I really enjoy making and packaging all these lovely things, and I especially like to hear from you.
We make a range of beautiful small gifts for you to give as Wedding Favours or for any other special occasion.Our range includes drawer fragrancers, massage bars and soap stacks, all of which can be tied with your choice of ribbon and wrapping. We can also create candles in your fragrance of choice. All gifts come with personalised tags and we will try to accommodate any individual preferences that you may have - please contact us and tell us what you would like.
For more details, more ideas of what Lavender's Green has to offer and to get in contact with Nicky, visit the Lavender's Green website or Facebook page.
The Dress
Let's face it, for brides, one of the most important aspects of the wedding, is the dress! Trying on lots of dresses is an absolute must. Not only does this help you to decide on the style of dress you want, but it is such great fun too. It can be very difficult to know where to shop for your dress - you will get mixed reviews from friends and family based on their experiences (and sometimes horror stories) of different bridal shops. There is also the fear in as your wedding approaches, that the bride at other weddings you attend might have the same dress as you - or your bridesmaids. I think most brides to be would be pretty upset with this happening. One way to avoid and bad experiences of mainstream bridal stores and the matching dresses is to have something completely bespoke made for you and the bridesmaids. By doing this, you can even have something a little different made, such as a coloured dress. Stephnie-Anne Dressmaking and Design offer this exact service and the dresses and you will see, are utterly stunning. Here is a bit more information about this very talented lady and explanations of how she came to create some the beautiful wedding dresses featured.
My name is Stephnie Rooney. I added 'Anne' to my business name in honour of my mum who taught me to appreciate the smaller things in life, to love and care about people and to sew.
I love sunshine and statement earrings.
I was born on a farm in Namibia and studied Fashion Design in Cape Town.
I love photography and pinotage.
My main objective when designing and making a dress is for that dress to compliment the bride and for the dress to stay true to her as a person. I don't want my brides to conform or to be just another bride! I want them to be the most beautiful version of themselves they have ever been. But I still want to see them first when they walk down the isle. It's not about the dress, it is about that beautiful girl inside it. Your dress should be so 'You' !
Browse through this gallery to see a few of the dresses I have made. All of these dresses were designed by me and made to measure for each customer.
Anne's initial idea for her wedding dress was completely different than what we designed for her :). I managed to happily convince Anne that we need to show of her amazing body and to also introduce a bit of color to compliment her beautiful sage green eyes.
Anne's dress had a bias cut sage green silk crepe underlay and "sea pearl" french lace overlay. I complimented the dress with goupere lace trimmings around the neckline and the skirt seam.
Photographs by
Candice wore a custom made champagne silk gown with lace overlay. We added a tiered lace effect on her hips and crystal and pearl beading around the neckline with a little cap sleeve.
Photographs by Alex Martin http://www.borders-photographer.co.uk
I am not sure if Kirsty enjoyed having her dress made more or I enjoyed making it more! We hyperventilated and squealed a lot during fittings.
Kirsty's dress had a boned corset with lace overlay and full layered tulle skirt. 50m of Tulle to be exact :).
Photograph by Alex Martin http://www.borders-photographer.co.uk
Linzi knew she wanted a silver wedding dress. So together we sourced her fabrics and lace and designed her a dress that is just to her.
Veils add that extra touch of magic to your wedding photographs.
To me, when you come down the isle, your guests should see how gorgeous you look and notice the sparkle in your eyes. Therefor I prefer a veil that is barely visible from the front, but adds a bit of drama from the back. It needs to complement you, not over power you.
All our veils are made to measure according to customer requirements. Together we will design a veil for you that complements your dress, you and your day!
We can make any length of veil in either silk or polyester tulle and do like to apply some applique or edging detail. But don't underestimate the misty beauty of an un-edged veil.
Photograph by Alex Martin
Stephnie can also design bridal cover-ups.
I love how the lace we chose for Lucy's bolero compliments her complexion and hair.
For gorgeous Lucy we made a back-to front lace bolero with button detail down the back. We used a lace called Lucinda which has a gorgeous gold thread through it and skin warming pearl beading.
Luckily we made Ann-Marie her fur wrap too as it snowed lots on there wedding day
Stephnie designs bespoke dresses for your bridesmaids too.
As all of Stephnie-Anne's beautiful dresses, veils and cover-ups are bespoke, made to order pieces, the prices will obviously vary. For more details, to see more of Stephnie's amazing work and to get in contact with her, please visit her website.
Wedding Flowers
Once you have a clear idea of the theme/colour scheme for your wedding, it is time to consider your flowers. Perhaps you want flowers to match the bridesmaid dresses, or perhaps you want a Scottish theme bouquet featuring some traditional thistles. Perhaps in facet, you don't have a clue what you would like. Fear not, as the wonderful Michelle from Simply Flowers is here to help. She will be able to give you suggestions as to what is in season, or what matches you colour scheme/ theme. Here is a little more about Simply Flowers and some of Michelle's beautiful creations.
For further details, more inspirational bouquet examples and to contact Michelle, visit her Facebook Page.
Wedding Jewellery
Stella and Dot is an exciting jewellery and accessories company, founded in San Francisco by Jessica Herrin, a mum of two children. She had a vision to create a new kind of company that would offer today's busy woman a career alternative. As co-founder of WeddingChannel.com (as featured on Oprah!), Jessica wanted to use her savvy to help solve the modern woman's dilemma: achieving success and balance through a career you love. Never one to go with the status quo, Jessica felt that the typical home based business just didn't deliver. With lacklustre product, high pressure sales tactics, and old school marketing methods, inventory was ending up in people's wardrobes with little profit in their pockets.
Jessica's vision called for an entirely new concept that could guarantee women flexibility, reward, style, profit and fun. With an irresistible product and exceedingly personal service, a proven formula for passionate earning and personal success was born.
Stella and Dot, an Inc. 500 Fastest-Growing Company, is a San Francisco based social selling company that creates flexible entrepreneurial opportunities for women. Our boutique-style jewellery and accessories line is available exclusively through in-home Trunk Shows by Independent Stylists and online.
Our one of a kind collections are designed by celebrated New York designers and featured in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Grazia and Elle as well as on the wrists and necklines of today's hottest celebrities. The Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Independent and The Telegraph have praised Stella & Dot for our innovative social shopping concept which brings together the best of ecommerce, social media, personal service and passionate earning to create the ultimate home based business for today's modern woman.
In Bonnyrigg, we are so very fortunate to have the lovely Tracey who is an Independent Stylist for Stella and Dot. She can advise you on the best products to match your style and also offer lots of incentives for hosting a trunk show. She has very kindly provided the amazing wedding inspiration below for brides to be, showing how Stella and Dot can offer the perfect jewellery for your special day.
Casablanca Bracelet £65, Deco Drop Earrings £35
Cushion Drop Earrings £29, Chantilly Lace Cuff £85, Arabesque Cocktail Ring £25
Each of the Stella and Dot pieces have an inspirational story behind them. The Chantilly Lace Cuff above was inspired by a piece of lace found in the attic of one of the creators' Grandfather.
There are a range of fabulous bracelets perfect for bridesmaids
Whether you are a bride to be, or just a girl who likes your jewellery, why not get in touch with Tracey and book a Trunk show. Get the girls round and have some refreshments, while Tracey styles you to perfection. To contact Tracey, visit her Stella and Dot page.
Wedding Hair
Hair up? Hair down? Bridesmaid's hair up or down? All decisions that have to be made! Luckily the very talented Ashley is her to guide you. Having had 10 years of experience working in a top salon, Ashley now works freelance, meaning she can fit in with the time you need her and travel to your chosen location. As well as providing hair colouring and cutting, Ashley specialises in Bridal Hair. Have a look below at some of her amazing work.
For more details, to see more of Ashley's work or to get in touch with Ashley to discuss requirements for your special day, visit her Facebook Page.
Wedding Nails
There is nothing more important on the day of your wedding than having beautifully manicured nails, especially when you are about to have a lovely new ring added to your finger. Perhaps you want to keep things neutral by going for a classic French Manicure, or maybe jazz things up a little with some colour or even a bit of glitter. Lynsey from Nails by Lynsey is sure to give you lots of ideas on what you could have. She is a freelance Nail Technician and so can travel to your desired location to ensure your nails look amazing for the big day. Why not go for a shellac or gel manicure to ensure your nails stay flawless all day. Here is some of the wonderful nail creations Lynsey has already offered.
Bare Chemise with Cream Puff tips
Romantique with a gradient of silver holographic glitter Satin Pyjamas
Plum Paisley with a layer of Butterfly Queen Tropix
Dark Dahlia with Femme Glitter
I can thoroughly recommend Lynsey as she did beautiful nails for me when I was Chief Bridesmaid last year. I opted for a Shellac French Manicure and they were perfect. They even lasted the full two weeks which was brilliant. Lynsey really puts you at ease and helps you to decide the best colours for the occasion. For more details, to see more examples of Lynsey's work and to get in contact, visit Lynsey's Facebook page or website.
Wedding Makeup
While many brides will opt to have a makeup artist helping them on the big day, for those who would rather do their own makeup it can be difficult to know which products are best to use. We are going to be looking at the Arbonne range of cosmetics and how these can be the perfect match for the big day. Here is a little more about the company and some of the beautiful products they offer.
The idea to provide skincare products unparalleled in quality and effectiveness developed in Switzerland in 1975, when one man, Petter Mørck, together with a group of leading biochemists, biologists and herbalists, fulfilled his vision and founded Arbonne.
Makeup Primer £27, Got you Covered Mineral Foundation in Nude £30, Creme Concealer in light £19
Arbonne skincare products, based on botanical principles, became a reality in the United States in 1980 and are now shared throughout the world through the Arbonne network of Independent Consultants. Building on these same founding principles, the product line has since grown to include both inner and outer health and beauty products that are unparalleled in quality, safety, value, benefits and results.
Bronzer £22, Blush in Dusty Rose £21, It's a Long Story Mascara (Waterproof of course!) £26
The wonderful thing about Arbonne is that it's not just about great products, it's also about great people. The Arbonne family is made up of thousands of individuals working to make their dreams come true. Through sales incentives and rewards, travel opportunities, a generous SuccessPlan and great products, Arbonne offers a unique opportunity that can help make anyone's vision for the future a reality.
We are very lucky to have an Independent Consultant for Arbonne based in Bonnyrigg, Louise Murray. Louise will be able to advise you on the best products for both your skin type and for the look you are hoping to create. It is essential on your wedding day to feel your absolute best.
For more information about Arbonne, to view more of their products and to get in touch with Louise, visit Louise's Arbonne Website Page.
Pre-Wedding Dinner
It's the night before the big day and what better way to relax, than with a beautiful meal with close friends and family in tranquil surroundings. The Paper Mill at Lasswade is the perfect place to unwind before one of the busiest days you will ever have. Find out a little more about the restaurant below.
Overlooking the beautiful River Esk in the tranquil conservation village of Lasswade, Scotland, the
Paper Mill is an all-day bar and restaurant situated in an historic former paper mill.
With a long and rich history of papermaking, the Esk Valley was once home to ten mills, renowned for the production of fine papers made from Esparto grass imported from Africa. The era of papermaking ended with the closure of the last mill on the Esk, which ceased production in 2004.
With interior design conceived and developed by Jim Hamilton Design and distinctive branding and signage designed by Edinburgh-based creative agency Touch, The Paper Mill is a striking, yet informal destination sympathetic to the village’s historical surroundings. Reclaimed materials, screenprinted artworks and found objects add to this laid-back feel, while a spacious outdoor terrace leads down to the riverbank.
Our award winning bar is stocked with a wide range of craft beers and lagers from the best Scottish breweries, along with a fantastic wine list to suit all pockets and a great selection of cocktails to add some sparkle to your event.
The exciting menu for The Paper Mill can be found here. For more details and to book a table, visit their website. The Paper Mill can also cater for intimate Wedding Day Meals for up to 45 guests or why not have your Hen Day there? The Paper Mill can run a cocktail demo event for you. For more details, contact them here.
Mums & Guests
No wedding guide would be complete without discussing some accessories for the Mothers of the Bride and Groom and also the wedding guests. Here are some exciting suggestions from our wonderful Midlothian companies on what to wear.
Fascinators by The Tiny Hat Company
The Tiny Hat Company is a Bonnyrigg based bespoke fascinator company run by the talented Carol Anne Smith. Carol can work her magic with any colour scheme to create a custom made fascinator for you on the big day. Here is a little more about this fabulous company as well as examples of Carol's amazing work.
I have been doing all sorts of craft work since I was a child and I love to sew and create with textiles.
A few years ago I started to do voluntary work in charity shops handling many beautiful donated garments and hats. We never had enough hats to satisfy demand and so I started making fascinators for the charity shop to sell. I then took some millinery courses and read millinery books and continued to expand my skills of making fascinators.
Most of my customers come to me 'by word of mouth' but I also take part in a few craft fairs in Edinburgh and Midlothian. My fascinators have been worn to many weddings, to the Royal Garden Parties at Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh, to Buckingham Palace Investitures, and to Ladies' Days at the races in Musselburgh, Aintree and Ascot.
Each fascinator is made by me and they can be mounted on a comb, clip or band. I will invite you to my home in Midlothian where I have my hat salon and workroom and you can try on some of the styles that are available as sample pieces. I will work with you to choose a colour that matches or complements your outfit as well as suggesting decorative features eg feathers, silk flowers, beads or Swarovski crystals that bring the whole look together.
I do not make hats, but I can source them from a millinery supplier and decorate them for you. An example is the picture below. If you wish a hat then an extra 3 weeks needs to be added to the order time.
Carol Anne Smith
As you can see, Carol is able to create a variety of shapes, colours and themes for a fascinator. More more information, to see more examples of her work and to get in contact with Carol, visit her Facebook page or website.
Mother of the Bride Outfits by Stephnie- Anne Dressmaking and Designs
We have already seen the amazing work Stephnie can do with brides and bridesmaids, and Mother of the Bride's are no exception. Have a look below at some of the beautiful outfits she has created.
Photograph by Colin Dickson colindickson@lumison.co.uk
Mum's and of course wedding guests, if you are looking for something bespoke and extra special to wear then Stephnie is your girl. Visit Stephnie's website to view her other work and to get in touch.
Jewellery by Stella and Dot
Rebel Cluster Necklace £ , Pave Triangle Ear Jacket £40 , Alice Bracelet £40 , Pave Chevron Ring £25 .
Why Not get Tracey to help you select the perfect pieces for your forthcoming wedding. Contact Tracey via her Stella and Dot Page here.
Finishing Touches
To ensure you are wedding guest ready, why not use our previously mentioned companies for your hair, nails and makeup.
Signature Hair by Ashley, Nails by Lynsey, Arbonne Cosmetics
Wedding Present/Card
For a wedding present with a difference and with real sentiment, look no further than the wonderful Shelf Life Designs, run by the hugely talented Vicky. As well as designing and creating beautiful home decor items, one of Vicky's most celebrated items are her beautiful hand scratched vases. All you need to do is give Vicky a picture/photo/location and she will work her magic, creating a beautiful hand scratched vase. These can be used for flowers or indeed a candle. The latter looks beautiful as the flames of the candle flicker through the image. Have a look at some of her amazing work below.
Borthwick Castle & Croatia
Orocco Pier and the view of the Forth Rail Bridge
Edinburgh's Balmoral Hotel and a more generic quotation vase.
An Edinburgh Vase looking spectacular lit up with a candle
How about a vase with the Bride and Groom's Wedding venue, Honeymoon destination or simply just a special place in their hearts? The possibilities are endless and Vicky can do just about anything for you. The Vases are priced at just £15 plus delivery. For more details, to see more of Vicky's work and to order, visit the Shelf Life Designs Facebook page.
No wedding present of course is complete without a wedding card. How about making that personalised too?
Here at LE Designs we have just launched a new Scottish themed Wedding Card that can be customised to the Bride and Groom to be. If you missed our post about this card, why not have a read about it and watch a video of the creation process here.
This card features a dancing Bride and Groom in Traditional Scottish dress. The Groom's Kilt and the accent border can be customised to the tartan of your choice.
If you would rather have the card without the addition of any tartan, it is also available in a monochrome colour scheme.
Both cards are available via our Etsy shop.
We hope you have enjoyed reading our Midlothian Wedding Guide, and if you are a Bride to be, we hope this has given you some inspiration for your big day.
*Giveaway*
Are you getting married in the Edinburgh and Lothian's areas or know someone who is? They could win their Wedding Nails courtesy of Nails by Lynsey. All you/they have to do to be in with the chance of winning, is to like both 'LE Designs' and 'Nails by Lynsey' on Facebook and leave a comment on this blog post to say they have done so.
Competition closes Wednesday 29th July 2015 8pm GMT
Winners will be announced Thursday 30th July 9am GMT
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