Editor loves and inspiration

Holly and Cory met while working at a nightclub when they were 18 and 19. “We were completely lost in the world, not knowing what we wanted to do in life,” says Holly. “We’d have never thought that 12 years later we’d have a house, be married and have two children!”

Cory proposed during a break away. “I had planned a trip to New York as a surprise for his 30th birthday,” shares the bride. “We went to Central Park at Thanksgiving, which was full of people and there wasn’t an inch of it without a tourist with a camera. We walked for hours while Cory tried to find the right place for us. Finally, we found a place called the Cop Cot. Sitting there, we decided to say what we were thankful for, in true American tradition. We discussed the journey we’d been on as a couple, our two beautiful children and just as we were about to leave, Cory explained he had one more question before we left. New York will forever be our special place.”

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

The team at Hensol Castle share what wedding insurance and corkage fees are.

"Before booking your wedding venue, we advise making sure they have up-to-date insurance, but it is also a wise decision to invest in your own wedding insurance once the contracts are signed. It offers peace of mind against unforeseen circumstances like vendor cancellations or extreme weather, allowing you to focus on celebrating without financial setbacks.

"A corkage fee is when a couple pays the venue so that they can bring their own drinks on-site. We don’t offer a corkage fee at Hensol Castle; however, we do provide a comprehensive selection of drinks to accommodate your guests and your fairytale wedding celebrations."

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

Rachael and Sam met through social media. “Sam had not been in New Zealand long and we instantly struck up a friendship,” says Rachael. “We chatted for a few months before we finally organised a date. It was truly love at first sight. All though our connection was instant, our relationship was a slow burn, as I have two daughters who were six and ten at the time. I had to make sure Sam was a keeper before he met Ava and Amelia, but he had me at hello, and his morals, ethics and loyalty would last me a lifetime.”

Sam proposed in a seaside village called Akaroa in New Zealand. “It was my birthday, so Sam had booked an apartment for the weekend right on the waterfront,” shares the bride. “On the Saturday morning, he was bouncing around wanting to go watch the sun rise at the lighthouse, while I wanted coffee in bed! Finally, I gave in, and I must admit, looking out across the water was a beautiful start to the day. I turned around and there he was down on one knee, pale as a ghost. While I contemplated in shock that he was proposing, I noticed his face. Apparently, I was taking too long and the poor guy actually thought I was going to turn him down, which of course I did not. That night friends and family turned up and my birthday dinner turned into an impromptu engagement party.”

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

The expert team at Diamond Centre Wales share the latest wedding jewellery trends.

"The allure of oval diamond engagement rings is trending upward, with modern couples seeking a blend of timeless elegance and contemporary flair. At Diamond Centre Wales, we’ve witnessed this trend first-hand, with an increasing number of clients drawn to the distinctive appeal of oval diamonds for their bespoke engagement ring designs. Here we explain why oval diamonds have captured the spotlight:

"Brilliant sparkle: Oval diamonds are cut similarly to round diamonds, which means they share the latter’s ability to catch and reflect light spectacularly. This brilliance is a key factor in their popularity, as the cut maximises the stone’s fire and sparkle, making it an eye-catching centrepiece of any engagement ring.

"Versatile design: The versatility of oval diamonds is unparalleled. Its unique shape complements a wide array of ring settings and styles, from classic solitaires to more intricate vintage designs and modern minimalist pieces.

"Illusion of size: Compared to round diamonds of the same carat weight, oval diamonds often appear larger due to their elongated shape. This feature offers the allure of a more substantial diamond, providing excellent value and aesthetic appeal."

Meet more local experts in the current issue. Download your free copy at www.yoursouthwales.wedding/free-download

Claire from Claire Louise Cake Studio shares one of her favourite cake designs.

"I have been a cake designer for a few years now. Designing wedding and celebration cakes is my passion and I love being a part of someone’s special day. The first cake is from a recent shoot for Le Wedding Fayre in Le Pub, Newport. The theme was Vegas meets retro! I was so excited about this theme that I went with a two-tiered lambeth style in a very pale peach and topped it with Maraschino cocktail cherries. I love the look with its delicate swirls and I think it fits well with the theme."

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