Author: Paula Brown

  • Meet The Wedding Planner – Dale Alexander

    Meet The Wedding Planner – Dale Alexander

    We catch up with one of the region’s most celebrated Wedding & Events planner and find out what drives his super-creative approach to delivering exceptional events…

    Detail driven, passionate and insanely creative, its no wonder Dale Alexander is one of the region’s most sought after wedding planners….

    With a career spent working in five star venues,  alongside some of the industry’s most acclaimed suppliers, Dale has planned and delivered hundreds of weddings – all unique and all totally unforgettable

    When you first meet Dale you are struck by his fun, easy going manner. Full of smiles and brimming with enthusiasm, he just lives and breathes weddings. Hardly surprising then that he seems to stay in touch with all of his couples and counts many of them as personal friends.

    We caught up with him , mid lockdown 2, in between his last two exciting assignments;  two exquisite micro-weddings for couple’s who decided love could not wait!

    So Dale tell us your story. How did you first get into weddings?

    “I began my career as a Luxury Wedding Planner in the boutique 5 star hospitality industry and eventually gravitated towards exclusive, private wedding venues overseeing all their events and heading up the customer relations. Function. Over the years, I learnt a great deal about the principles of great customer service, planning and event management. I am incredibly passionate about planning and managing events – it’s what I do best and I can’t really see myself doing anything else!”

     

    We know you plan all kinds of events but what do you love about weddings in particular?

    “Everything! I love hearing the stories of  how the couples met, getting to know them, understanding their vision and then making it happen. What could be more magical than helping couples celebrate the most important day of their lives? For me it’s all in the detail – I love nothing more than adding a few extra special Dale touches and then watching all the guests have the time of their lives and make wonderful memories.”

    So what is your secret?

    I think my number one secret weapon is the incredible suppliers I work with. Throughout my years in the industry I’ve had the privilege of working with some immensely talented professionals. The guys I work with are at the top of their game and from cakes to flowers, décor to lighting and everything in between their work is absolutely world class.

    It also helps that I really love people! I think the instinct to organise and take care of people is something you are born with and each and every couple is special to me.

    2020 has been a devastating year for couples and the wedding industry. What do you see for 2021?

    Hopefully the industry will start to ease back into some kind of ‘new normal.’ I still see intimate events playing a huge part in the wedding scene for many months to come but lots of couples are adapting to this and realising you can still have the day of your dreams and maybe splash out on some extra luxuries with just your nearest and dearest in attendance.

    I think intimate weddings followed by a big party or fabulous first anniversary bash will become even more popular and this really excites me – who doesn’t love planning two parties!

    Dale has planned over one hundred weddings and events discreetly and considerately. For the not so discreet, some of Dale’s weddings and events have featured in ok! Magazine.

    “I absolutely adore the events industry, especially seeing the faces of my clients when they see the result of all of our preparation. Many years of planning these special days have taught me how to pick out the very best suppliers and friends, helping to make the planning process seamless, unique and all importantly ~ stress free. Whether it’s a destination wedding or an event closer to home, I will work closely with you to build an event that you have always dreamed of having. Making the process fun, stress free and creative.”

    When Dale is not working as a Luxury Wedding Planner or organising these special events,  you can usually find him in the countryside with his three fur babies; Delaney, Harry & Freya. He also has a strong passion for interior design and everything flowers!

    “Please do say ‘hello’, if you have any questions or would like to discuss your ideas ~ I would love to hear from you and work with you on this exciting and fun journey ahead. x”

    To start your wedding journey, contact Dale and get ready to plan the day of your dreams!

    CONTACT

    DALE ALEXANDER EVENTS

  • Sunshine, Sophie & Show-Stopping Florals…

    Sunshine, Sophie & Show-Stopping Florals…

    After a season on heartbreak, lockdown, lost opportunities and disappointment we decided to grab the few dying days of summer and come back in style…

    As soon as we got the ok from Boris to emerge from lockdown and our talented make-up artists and creatives could get back to doing what they do best, we let our imaginations run wild and planned a stunning summer shoot at one of our favourite locations.

    So on the hottest day of the year (the temperature hit over 35 degrees) we gathered our ‘dream team’ together and made the short drive down to Shropshire for a day filled with flowers, fabulous dresses and lots of fun….

    The Location

    Nestled in an awe-inspiring setting in the heart of the Shropshire countryside, Hawkstone Hall is a truly breath taking venue. Still a relative new-comer to the wedding scene, 2020 should have been the first full season of weddings for the team until the ‘C’ word got in that way.

    A luxurious hideaway with stunning original features, the whole venue is packed full of the most glorious spaces for your big day. From the magnificent ballroom complete with original artwork and incredible décor, to the magnificent chapel and light-filled ‘Winter Garden’ we were spoilt for choice when it came to locations for the shoot.

    In the end, with the sun beating down, we made the most of the magical gardens and based our main shoot in the beautiful Tapestry Room. With its pink hued marble columns and large arch windows looking out over the estate, it provided the perfect backdrop for our blush based theme.

    The Theme

    With a strict brief from our bridal gurus at Bellissima Brides – ‘we want wow’ we started to pull together an epic mood board of ideas to fit in with our rose gold and blush theme. Alongside the magnificent backdrop of Hawkstone, we knew we wanted a world-class installation – enter Mat Hepplestone, the creative genius behind industry leading floral giants, Red Floral and the rest is history!

    Mat understood the brief from the word go and when we saw a sprinter van, packed to the rafters with fresh flowers edge up the drive, we know we were going to see something pretty exceptional.

    The Team

    With their vibrant social media and links across the fashion and styling world, the girls at Bellissima suggested that we work with a leading Instagram influencer on the shoot and so they introduced high-profile MUA and model Sophie Russell to the mix.

    Alongside their selection of dresses and Mat’s stellar floral creations, Sophie not only provided all the make-up for the day, she also became our main, uber glamorous bridal model too.

    We completed our industry leading line-up with the super-talented Suzanne Thorp, cake designer extraordinaire from The Frostery and our wonderful hairdresser on set was the amazing Rebecca Forshaw.

     

     

    We had a range of exquisite accessories with hand-crafted veils and headpieces from Adorn By Ashely, gorgeous bespoke bridal pieces from Bob-Bon Bride and bridesmaid crowns from Evelyn and Rose.

    The gorgeous Robyn Evans and Claudia Platt were our beautiful bridesmaids on the day and the true stars of the show came in the form of the absolutely epic Bride Tribe Photography team.

    Louise Coppello and hubby Alex are not only super-talented photographers they are just about the nicest people to have on set and I can only imagine they would be a wonderful addition to any wedding day.

    We think the wonderful images really ooze class and this is largely down to Louise and Alex’s passion, talent and gorgeous on-set demeanour.

    Get The Look…

    Photography: The Bride Tribe

    Florals:  Red Floral

    Dresses:  Bellissima Brides

    Cake Design:  The Frostery

    Makeup / Influencer:  Sophie Russell

    Hair:  Rebecca Forshaw

    Bridal Model:  Sophie Russell

    Drak Model: Robyn Evans

    Blonde Model: Claudia Platt

    Veil / Headpieces: Adorn By Ashely

    Bridal:  Bon Bon Bride

    Bridesmaid Headpieces: Evelyn & Rose

  • Talhenbont Hall

    Talhenbont Hall

    A stunning country estate, steeped in history and set in acres of beautiful gardens and ancient woodland; a wedding at Talhenbont Hall is nothing less than magical.

    Dream Location

    Nestled in the hamlet of Chwilog on the breath-taking Llyn Peninsula, Tahlenbont’s history is as rich as its magnificent surroundings. Once North Wales’ largest private estate, it was home to William Vaughan and involved in a notable tug-of-war between the Roundheads and Cavaliers. These days its tranquil setting, stunning interiors and luxurious accommodation plays host to some of the most unforgettable weddings and events in the region.

    A Family Affair

    In recent years Talhenbont was home to Roger and Gillian Good and the running of the Hall, its estate and all the magnificent events is now managed by the couple’s son Paul and his super-talented fiancée Alicia.

    The couple oversee every element of the hall personally and Alicia manages each and every event as if it were her own. Absolutely no detail is left to chance and no request is too big or too small. During your stay the hall becomes your home and the team go to great lengths to ensure you and your guests enjoy every second of your experience.

    Exclusively Yours

    At Talehenbont all weddings are exclusive. That means you don’t have to share the stunning surroundings with anyone other than your own guests. Depending on how long you wish to stay, you can create your own Chateau style wedding celebration across 3 days and accommodate up to 40 of your guests in the beautiful (and super-quirky) accommodation on site. Relax in the beautiful rooms, roam the grounds and enjoy both pre-and post wedding celebrations with your nearest and dearest in your very own country estate.

    Stunning Spaces

    Whatever the size of your celebration, Talhenbont is bursting with glorious spaces to ‘I Do’. The magnificent Main Hall which can accommodate up to 70 guests, provides a stunning backdrop for your nuptials. With its sunny terrace and cosy dark wood panelled bar – it’s a truly unique setting.

    The newly renovated Coach House, which can host up to 150 guests is a charming option for slightly larger weddings. Oozing rustic romance, with heaps of original features this glorious space is flooded with natural light and bursting with character.

    The Great Outdoors

    If an outdoor wedding is your dream why not opt for a marquee or even a tipi in the magnificent grounds. You can seal the deal in the stunning pergola, surrounded by your guests ‘amphitheatre’ style, surrounded by the stunning grounds and over 100 acres of private woodland.

    With heaps of photo opportunities and even your very own river running through the estate you would have to go a long way to find a more magical backdrop for your big day.

    Perfect Partners

    As you would expect, team Talhenbont have gone to great lengths to ensure that every element of your day is managed by the very best in the business. Their exclusive catering partners, Cheeky Chilli Events are multi-award winning catering and events experts offering some of the most mouth-watering menus and fantastic feasts imaginable. Their passionate team of chefs and event managers will ensure your food is on point, whatever your vision.

    For exquisite floral touches and stunning botanical architecture, Tahlenbont have teamed up with the highly acclaimed Springbank Flowers. One of the North’s most creative and talented teams of floristry maestros they can literally bring your floral dreams to life.

    Stay, Play & Unwind

    Whether you chose to stay for one day and one night or go all out with a two night and three day stay, becoming Lord and Lady of the Manor is the only way to go.

    The stunning hall has 5 magnificent bedrooms including a jaw dropping bridal suite and the quirky cottages and apartments scattered throughout the grounds have been beautifully finished and can accommodate an additional 30+ guests.

    Find Us

    Talhenbont Hall

    Chwilog

    Pwhelli

    Gwynedd

    North Wales LL53 6SZ

    W: Talhenbont Hall

    E: enquiries@talhenbonthall.co.uk

    T: 01766 810247

  • Tyn Dwr Hall

    Tyn Dwr Hall

    One of the most talked about ‘new generation’ venues, Tyn Dwr Hall is setting the standard for exceptional ‘destination’ weddings….

    A beautifully curated space, where every detail of your day is expertly managed and every aspect of your stay is filled with luxury touches.

    A truly magnificent location that perfectly fuses old and new, its thoughtful, contemporary additions work perfectly alongside its abundance of historical details creating a truly magnificent setting for your big day…..

    Exceptional Setting

    As you approach Tyn Dwr along the beautiful tree-lined driveway and catch your first glimpse of the stunning Grade ll listed Hall, you know you have arrived somewhere very special.

    Wrapped in beautiful grounds, this grand country hall sits proudly; with its fairy tale turrets and magical illuminated bell-tower creating a magnificent backdrop for your special day.

    Surrounded by ancient woodland (some of the oldest trees in Wales to be precise!) and set in beautiful countryside with epic views out over the Welsh hills this really is a magical spot.

    Whether a romantic shot by the babbling stream or warm summer evenings quaffing Pimms on the garden terrace is your thing, this beautiful Hall and its stunning spaces really does deliver.

    A Family Affair

    Owned and managed by husband and wife team Matthew and Victoria Jones, Matthew’s talented sister Tracey and a passionate gaggle of extended family – Tyn Dwr really is a family business with a difference.

    Detail driven and fanatical about absolute quality and supreme service, this ‘dream team’ have transformed Tyn Dwr into one of the most acclaimed wedding venues in Wales and beyond.

    Your Hall For Your Day

    All weddings at Tyn Dwr are exclusive, this means that you and your guests get use of the whole hall and all its spaces. You can plan your perfect day and choose the rooms that work best for you and your guests can enjoy every aspect of the hall and all its wonderful facilities.

    Ballroom Bliss

    Exchange your vows in the magnificent ballroom – flooded with natural light and oozing romantic charm, this stunning room enjoys breath-taking views out over the lush grounds and the Welsh hills beyond.

    After your vows, announce your union by choosing a special guest to ring the bell housed in the original bell tower and get ready for the party to begin.

    Terrace Time

    From pre or post wedding drinks to canapes with a view, the delightful garden terrace is a popular location for gathering your guests. When the temperature dips you can always retreat inside to Dickins Bar or one of the cosy celebration spaces to continue the night with a warming tipple or two! The ultimate country wedding spot, its always a real favourite with couples and guests alike

    Gorgeous Garden Room

    Once the ceremony is over, guests can spill out into the various adjoining rooms whilst you wait for the wedding breakfast to start. Again, the choice is yours here but the glorious garden room is an epic choice for a truly magical wedding breakfast. Bathed in light, with floor to ceiling windows, this contemporary addition to the main hall is simply spectacular.

    Perfect Get-Away For Guests

    With room for up to 66 of your guests, the accommodation at Tyn Dwr is exceptional.

    From the three luxurious suites, each uniquely designed with bespoke furnishings and luxury touches (the Victorian style roll-top baths are to die for!) to the uber-cool ‘glamping’ yurts and magical Yew Tree Cottage your guests will be spoilt for choice.

    As with everything at Tyn Dwr, the attention to detail and luxurious extras are simply exquisite and with so much accommodation on offer it means guests can stay and enjoy the festivities into the wee small hours.

     

    Divine Dining

    Delivered by Tyn Dwr’s in-house caterers, Wild Garlic, the food here is every bit as amazing as the surroundings.

    Driven by talented brothers Kevin and Paul, the Wild Garlic team have created a series of bespoke menus especially for Tyn Dwr using only the finest local ingredients. Think fresh artisan rolls served with Welsh butter and an array of superb dishes to suit every taste.

    All couples are invited to a private tasting along with two chosen guests to help make their final selections and this is usually teamed up with a bespoke wine tasting to match the perfect tipples to your chosen menu.

    From creating that perfect welcome drink, to serving the perfect grape for your perfect dish – food and drink plays a huge part in your wedding day and team Tyn Dwr will make sure your selection is simply perfect.

    DON’T MISS!!

    The Dreamy Dressing Room

    Gather your ‘tribe’ and de-camp to the beautiful dressing room ahead of your grand entrance for a bit of last minute prep in true Tyn Dwr style.

    This charming room has been created with the bride and her maids in mind s there is plenty of room for hair-do’s and make-up stations as well as a fab sound system for your perfect playlist.

    Hidden by frosted glass and with a lovely view of the main driveway – the only person with a key to this room is the bride so it’s the perfect space to watch your guests arrive, have a last minute ‘touch-up’ and enjoy your last few minutes as a Miss!

  • Pretty As A Picture…

    Pretty As A Picture…

    When wedding planning guru Dale Alexander decides to pull together an autumn inspired shoot, you know it’s going to be pretty special….

    Stunning location, check, epic décor, naturally, beautiful models, of course! But this super-creative styled shoot had something most other shoots can only dream of. Say ‘hello’ to the real star of the show, Dale’s very own fur baby, Mr Harry Bobbins!

    Meet Dale

    One of the UK’s most celebrated luxury wedding planners, Dale has planned and delivered some of the most exquisite events both here in the UK and across the globe.

    He has organised over one hundred unforgettable weddings, planning every detail and managing every aspect of the big day personally from start to finish. A true detail fanatic and a gorgeous person to have around on your big day, his aim is to take away the stress, turn your dreams into reality and let you enjoy every second of your big day…..

    A Dreamy Day At Delamere

    As Delamere Manor’s retained Wedding Director, Dale obviously knows this stunning venue more than most so it was an obvious and very beautiful choice of location for the day.

    Set in an awe inspiring position in the heart of the Cheshire countryside, Delamere is one of the region’s most exquisite wedding venues. Its elegant spaces, glorious ground and quirky backdrops help make it one of the most aspirational venues in the North.

    A Super-Squad Of Suppliers

    With his extensive network of suppliers and legendary eye for detail, its hardly surprising that Dale was able to pull together an epic team of super-suppliers to help turn his styling dreams into reality.

    Delamere’s exquisite courtyard space was beautifully enhanced with stunning lighting installations from Luminate Events and epic floral creations from Boujee Box.

    Tables were decked to perfection with elegant crockery and glasses by Whitehouse Crockery and the stylish chairs came courtesy of Chair Man Hire.

    The dreamy stationery and ‘on-the-day’ table plan, menu & name cards was designed by the talented Natalie from Jelly Press.

    The dreamy designer gowns were supplied by acclaimed Cheshire Designer Balthazar By Gary Hayes paired with gorgeous accessories by Cassie M Bridal and the gorgeous groom wore a suit by Groom Formal for the day.

    The super-talented Lizzie Griffiths was in full charge of all hair and make-up looks in keeping with the dreamy Autumn theme and the show-stopping cake came courtesy of the amazing Bloomsbury Cakes.

    The final look was completed with a fun selfie mirror from Exceed Events and on- trend LED backdrops from the guys at Love Lights The Way.

    Picture Perfect

    The whole day was captured beautifully by luxury wedding photographer Livi Edwards, from the magical autumn light shimmering on the lake to the stunning shades of the season across the estate. With Dale overseeing every aspect of the day, we think you can see the joy shining through the images and of course, Mr Harry Bobbins steals the show everytime!