A stunning showcase of what Scotland’s finest suppliers have to offer
Category: Uncategorised
The Sleep Pine Package
The Sleep Pine Package from Severin*s – The Alpine Retreat
Severin*s – The Alpine Retreat in Lech, Austria, knows that mountain air and good exercise all contribute to a deeply restorative night – but guests can go one better by indulging in the hotel’s ‘Sleep Pine Ritual’: a carefully curated evening programme involving long bath-soaks, guided meditation and lighter dining options designed for easy digestion.
Lech is a winter wonderland during the ski season – blanketed in snow and bursting with ancient pine forests – renowned for detoxifying the atmosphere and containing properties well known to cleanse the body too: pine oil is anti-bacterial and effective for clearing the sinuses. Many Austrians also believe in the health benefits of pine cones and use them to stopper their water carafes.
Severin*s is located just outside the main town of Lech – a 20 minute walk through the pine woods – easily done at dusk as part of the ‘winding down’ from the day. Once back at the boutique, suites-only hotel, guests can book a personal yoga session to stretch out from the exercise (or indulgences) of the day, followed by a guided meditation session with the hotels resident yoga-expert. A lighter menu is on offer for those wishing to focus on their sleep ritual and to get the best out of their rest, and the hotel provides a ‘Bath Butler’ service with its own pine and lavender bath salts – cleansing, calming and detoxifying all in one.
Severin*s – The Alpine Retreat also houses top of the range spa facilities including saunas, a steam bath, an infrared cabin and indoor swimming pool.
Sleep Pine Package – Four Night from EU 4,760
A half board basis in a Junior Suite
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Two thirty-minute yoga classes and one guided meditation class per person
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“Bathbutler” service with lavender and pine bath products
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Lighter menu for easy digestion
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Daily recommendations and treats for better sleep
For further details or to book visit www.salindaresort.com
Purple Sunsets
Purple Sunsets at Salinda Resort, Phu Quoc, Vietnam
With 121 luxury rooms, suites and villas, a magical outdoor infinity swimming pool, three spoiling restaurants to choose from, an enchanting Thai Spa, and the incredible famous ‘purple sunsets’ Salinda Resort offers a charming tranquil island retreat in which to relax on your honeymoon or even to host your wedding ceremony.
Perfectly located not far from Phu Quoc Airport and a 10-minute drive from main town, Salinda Resort sits on The Pearl Island of Asia, Phu Quoc Island, the largest island in Vietnam.
Offering 121 spacious rooms, suites, and villas with over 300 members of staff, guests will receive an unapparelled level of service, truly personalised with a ratio of 2.5 staff to each guest. The design throughout the resort is elegant and in harmony with Vietnamese traditions enabling the property to blend into its surroundings, bringing the outside in. The island’s natural environment can be admired from the resort as it encompasses mango trees and lush gardens, revealing the simplistic beauty of Phu Quoc.
Appreciating a truly tropical retreat, guests can enjoy an exotic cocktail by the infinity pool overlooking the ocean before taking in the breath-taking sunsets which set over the beach with their bright purple sky glistening onto the ocean.
Each morning guests can add some fizz to their routine at Salinda Resort’s Sparkling Breakfast, whilst enjoying the soothing sounds of live piano. In the evenings, guests will be able to feast on a wide range of cuisine that goes beyond the traditional Vietnamese dishes. Authentic Vietnamese, Traditional Indian and Contemporary Italian restaurants, all of which are led by native chefs, are on offer to satisfy all cravings. To wind up an evening, the High Note Bar Lounge plays live music which can be accompanied with a drink from the vast selection of music-inspired cocktails.
Salinda Resort prides itself for being a sustainability focused boutique hotel, and has introduced the Purple by Salinda Sustainability programme which aims to help the local community, promote diversity and cherish local culture on the island of Phu Quoc. Salinda Resorts is home to over 100 types of trees and flowers, all of which were planted by the family since their arrival to Phu Quoc Island.
Guests can relax and unwind in the comforts of the Salinda Spa, which prides itself for using natural ingredients from Phu Quoc. The professional Thai therapists bring traditional treatments and ancient wellness secrets to Salinda Resort.
For further details or to book visit www.salindaresort.com
Attention to Detail
Christmas Feature
South Africa Honeymoon
Seaside luxury at a unique boutique hotel
Every five star hotel offers guests any number of great reasons to never want to check out and Abalone House and Spa in Paternoster, on the West Coast, a two hour drive from Cape Town, South Africa is no different.
The intimate property only has ten suites meaning guests will never feel crowded. It also lends itself as an intimate wedding venue with great offers for the couple and guests. Honeymoon couples can request the exclusive use of the rooftop jacuzzi with sea views for some romantic alone time.
The hotel is unashamedly opulent with every corner designed to delight and pamper guests. Iconic painter Tretchikoff is a theme with vibrant prints of his paintings dominating the communal areas as well as individual suites. Lush furnishings including well preserved antiques and treasured memorabilia from the owner’s personal collection create the welcoming public spaces. The cosy library stocked with books in multiple languages features as well as recent DVDs features crystal chandeliers, modern furnishings, wooden ceilings and old silverware. It is the perfect place for an afternoon sherry or cocktail.
When food is especially important to the experience then the inhouse restaurant offering has no choice but to offer sumptuous feasting. From the breakfast spread featuring a continental menu, hot meals and the all important mimosa and bloody mary options nothing is lacking. Lunch and dinner can be enjoyed in the Persian carpeted dining room or open deck depending on the weather. As Abalone House is on the coast seafood is a natural offering. Aside from sourcing sustainable local products the head chef also has a kitchen garden to grow vegetables and herbs. For connoisseurs there is also a food and brandy pairing menu showcasing the best brandy from the region.
When it comes to downtime, there are many deluxe options. An easy win is a refreshing dip in one of the two courtyard pools overhung by local birds nests. For a more relaxing option there is a spa offering couples massages, beauty treatments and therapeutic body care.
While the hotel is filled with reasons to never leave the nearby town offers a deluge of delights. Paternoster is a well known fishing town which has grown to be an artistic community and foodie hub so there is much to explore. Whether a honeymoon couple is looking for lush surroundings, quality food or relaxing massages the Abalone House has it. For those wanting to start the marriage process in a sumptuous manner there can be no better place than this tranquil haven on the coast.
For more information please see
www.southofafrica.co.za/properties/abalone-house
Christmas Mood Board
Love on the Loch
Scotland’s Finest Love on the Loch
One of the most beautiful spots in Scotland to get hitched is at the banks of Loch Lomond. Just a 40-minute drive from bustling Glasgow, you are hit with great rolling Munros & the most stunning views that has made our country such a popular place! We open up in the quaint wee village of Luss. A small traditional Scottish village boasting views down the Loch Lomond. This was the Perfect spot to put together some amazingly creative & local wedding suppliers with collectively over 20 years’ experience.
Here’s a little bit more about us…
by Una Boag
Loch Lomond Arms Hotel
www.lochlomondarmshotel.com
An award-winning country pub & wedding venue, with a beautiful rustic modern Scottish feel. Stunning views of the Loch just a stroll away & the grounds kept immaculately. Catering for small & intimate or larger lavish affairs, you’ll find the team welcoming, friendly & ready to create the ambience you want for your special day.
Make up By Leigh Blaney
www.makeupbyleighblaney
www.facebook.com/makeupbyleighblaney
Leigh’s ability to create so many different styles & looks comes from over 10 years in the industry, specialising in bridal, editorial & stage. She finishes with flawless skin & a strong berry lip contrasting hair colour perfectly & complementing the overall style.
Blush by Una Boag
Hair stylist & shoot stylist
www.blushbyunaboag.co.uk
@blushbyunaboag
While creating hair styles for over 10 years Una had taken to picturing her own styles of weddings. The feel of relaxed locks compliments the flow of the dresses & the flawlessness of the make-up. Specialising in Weddings, editorials & any special occasions, Una’s service can go from cutting & colouring at home to styling & finishing your full party on location for your big day.
Gioia Mia-Handmaid Jewellery & Hair Pieces
www.gioiamia.net
@gioiamiadesigns
Sonia is able to compliment colours, sparkles & to dress hair pieces that tie in with her fantastic jewellery. Founded in 2004, her ability to personalise hand crafted pieces to your individual taste & look, has had her creating keepsakes for life and for any occasion.
Melle Cloche-Bridal Boutique
www.mellecloche.com
hello@mellecloche.com
A family run boutique in the heart of Glasgow, Lisa & Jac have the natural ability to find the gown which flatters and enhances the beauty of your body. For this particular shoot, the perfect neck lines & drops complemented the full look perfectly.
Studio Flowers
www.facebook/studioflowersgourock
@studioflowersgourock
Shona has the ability to make a few wild flowers look like a beech grove garden. On the shoot, she was able to not only create a unique, colourful wild bouquet & decorations, but whilst standing in the grounds of the hotel was also able to put together a unique posy from the garden.
Sole Productions Videographer & Photographer
www.soleproductions.co.uk
Pop on to their website and you will see a perfectly created keepsake film of this shoot. This short film is an example of what you could have to remind you of your amazing day. Chas has the ability to quietly observe & capture the magical moments that could otherwise easily disappear, when you see it you will feel like you are reliving your perfect day over & over again!
1500 Photography
www.1500photography.co.uk
Having the right eye & knowing the right places to shoot is something your photographer should do. Stuart has been shooting on the banks of Loch Lomond since he was a boy. So, popping in Alpacas to the shoot, was absolutely no problem at all. Personal, detailed shots & overall attention to your day allows for a story to be told with this photographer.
Hayley Peberdy Photography
@Hayley.peberdyphoto
Capturing every moment from all angles of a day is virtually impossible for your photographer, so having Hayley on board as a second shooter for the day allowed for a fantastic different visual interpretation!
Larch Green Alpacas
www.facebook.com/larchgreenalpacas
larchgreenalpacas@gmail.com
Meet Eric, Toby & Sid. Local to the venue, imagine being able to walk around & pet these lovely placid creatures on your day. Keeping guests happy, having these guys come & be part of your day is something you’ll never forget!
Our Models
@BrianWebber His look was created with the inspiration of smart but casual. The relaxed Boho style of his chinos & hat make for a smart relaxed finish. Proof that a kilt isn’t always the traditional dress for our men!
@mel model Mel’s red hair colour & lovely cheekbones gave a great canvas for all stylists to work on. Working fantastically with Brian to create our couple for the day. Not to mention Bailey, our wonderful Italian Spinone. Whom decided to take his photographic debut on the banks of loch Lomond.
@gillycheung20 model Gillian’s fantastic figure & stunning hair allowed the beautiful flowing style of the dresses to be really shown off.
The Glasshouse Honeymoon
Romance & Relaxation
Voted Edinburgh’s Most Romantic Hotel at the Scottish Hotel Awards 2018, The Glasshouse offers a dedicated ‘Romance Package’ and ‘Suite Romance Package.’
Ideal for a getaway treat or mini-moon, on arrival, couples will be treated to a chilled bottle of the finest Champagne, which can be enjoyed on the two-acre rooftop garden, or in a romantic bubble bath making use of the indulgent bath oil on offer. Rose petals are sprinkled across the spacious hotel bed to set the scene, while a Champagne breakfast will be delivered, making for the ideal in-room lazy morning together.
The Romance Package Includes:
• Overnight accommodation
• A chilled bottle of Champagne in room on arrival
• Romantic turn down service, including rose petals over the bed
• Pamper and relax toiletries, including bath oils, foams and salts
• Champagne breakfast in bed
• Extended late check-out until 1pm
Prices start from £270 per room per night based on two guests for a one-night stay
The Suite Romance Package Includes:
• An upgraded stay in a suite
• A chilled bottle of Champagne in room on arrival
• A private three-course dinner served in the suite
• A deluxe one-hour in-room couple’s massage
• Romantic turn-down service, including rose petals over your bed
• Pamper and relax toiletries, including bath oils, foams and salts
• Champagne breakfast in bed
• Extended late check-out until 1pm
Prices start from £700 per room per night based on two guests for a one-night stay
Halloween – Moodboard
Ice cream Pastels – Mood Board
It’s a nice day for a white wedding – Mood Board
The Perfect Combination
A lovely sunny day provided the perfect conditions for photographer Iska Birnie, from Janie Barclay Photography, when a few other local wedding suppliers came together for a styled bridal photo session, at the magnificent Meldrum House Hotel situated in Oldmeldrum – Aberdeenshire.
Their aim was to show off the best that Aberdeen and the Shire have to offer when it comes to weddings, from gorgeous Make-Up by Diane Anderson and Hair by Maria Shand, stunning cars from Rainbow Prestige, delicate jewellery by Greypuss Jewellery and flowers by Flower Vogue, to the amazing backdrops provided by Meldrum House and of course not to forget one of Aberdeen’s finest photographers.
The models Katherine and Brad looked stunning and did a fantastic job. Katherine, who competes very successfully in bodybuilding competitions, got to wear three different beautiful dresses, which were kindly provided by Brides Delight in Aberdeen. Handsome Brad, a musician, looked rather dashing in his Bennachie tartan outfit by Millsom and Main, also Aberdeen. The Bennachie tartan is the newest edition to Millsom and Main’s beautiful tartan range.
The Details
Photographer: Janie Barclay Photography, www.janiebarclay.com
BRIDAL GOWNS: Brides Delight,
www.bridesdelight.co.uk
Kilt: Millsom and Main,
www.millsomandmain.com
Make up: Diane Anderson Make Up Artist, www.facebook.com/dianemakeupartist
Hair: Hair by Maria Shand,
www.facebook.com/hairbyMariaShand
Flowers: Flower Vogue,
www.flowervogueaberdeen.co.uk
Car: Rainbow Prestige,
www.rainbowprestige.co.uk
Jewellery: Greypuss Jewellery,
www.facebook.com/greypussweddingjewellery
Venue: Meldrum House Hotel,
www.meldrumhouse.com
Pure Luxury Destinations
Leading travel network Virtuoso have put together their top recommendations for the most luxurious honeymoons for couples looking to de-stress after their wedding at some of the most over-the-top destinations around the world.
Staying on a private island can be the ultimate romantic escape and they’ve selected four of the best from their portfolio of the most upscale properties around the world, all detailed below and available to book through the Virtuoso site with added bonuses not available to anybody else.
Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands is reopening after damage sustained by last year’s hurricanes. The exclusive retreat provides plenty of options for active honeymooners over its 30 hectares. Couples can water-ski, wakeboard, sail, paddleboard, kayak and even kitesurf. Travellers who book through a Virtuoso travel advisor receive two complimentary one-hour massages among other benefits. Rates for the entire island start at £48,166 a night.
Musha Cay in the Bahamas, owned by magician David Copperfield, offers honeymooners almost 300 hectares of lush island beauty to explore on their own. Lie on the white-sand beaches, take a dip in the turquoise waters, relax in the Jacuzzis, or take the WaveRunner to explore 11 nearby private islands. A staff of more than 30 tend to guests’ every need. Rates start at £32,367 a night.
Royal Belize is a three-villa hideaway spread over three hectares, where the couple can experience undersea adventures, culinary delights and beachside lounging. Virtuoso guests receive either a complimentary private sunset cruise to a nearby exclusive island, or a private island snorkel as well as other perks. Rates start at £4,632 a night.
At Dolphin Island, Fiji, newlyweds enjoy 5.7 hectares as their personal playground. Take a dip in the infinity pool, explore coral reefs or enjoy water sports. Fresh fish and tropical fruit are readily available. Virtuoso guests enjoy a complimentary traditional feast accompanied by Fijian musicians in addition to other advantages. Rates start at £2,318 a night for two.
Ultraluxe honeymooners are seeking privacy and exclusivity in their accommodations, so having an island or villa all to themselves is highly desirable. Privileged access to locations and experiences that only a rare few can enjoy is a key element of honeymooning like a royal. Couples want exotic, off-the-beaten-path locales, so they can be the first in their group of friends to discover a new destination. Accommodations and settings must be breathtaking, so they’re perfect for sharing via Instagram. Newlyweds today don’t just want to fly and flop; they cherish their beach time but also crave fun activities and unbelievable food and drink. Another element to an ultraluxe honeymoon is over-the-top service, where anything the couple could want or need is handled before they even think of it.
Karen Goldberg, Managing Director, Hotels & Resorts, Virtuoso.
Pure Opulence at Trades Hall Glasgow
The Details
Location: Trades Hall Glasgow
photography: 1500 Photography
Make Up Artist: Jenna Clayton MUA
www. jennathemakeupartist.com
Hair Stylist: Blush By Una Boag
www.blushbyunaboag.co.uk
Hair pieces & jewellery: www.gioiamia.net
Dresses: Supplied by The Wedding Planner Helensburgh
Models: Jillian Hall, Chelcie Newall and Shannon Dawe
Meander leisurely through the countryside with Rovos Rail
Meander leisurely through the countryside with Rovos Rail
By Yolisa Qunta
Many couples have different expectations of a honeymoon but the common denominator is that a memorable experience is the ideal way to start off married life. Those looking for the unhurried bliss of a train trip will definitely appreciate a journey aboard this luxury train where every wish is catered to.
This particular journey starts in the balmy South African City of Durban where guests are met in a lounge at the train station and welcomed to the journey. Onboard each guest is appointed an attendant who is available around the clock to take care of their needs. Each suite is fully appointed with all amenities including a bar fridge, fluffy bath robes, postcards and stationery as well as a fully stocked toiletry bag.
The trip is divided between leisure time and thoughtfully curated stops. After rolling through the green Midlands the first stop is a visit to Ardmore Ceramics. This creative hub displays fantastical ceramics and textiles inspired by nature. Then its back to the train to get ready for dinner. The dress code for dinner is formal so gentlemen wearing suits and ladies in cocktail dresses are an elegant sight in the dining car. The chef prepares an exquisite four course meal at every seating that is paired with the best South African wines. Afterwards the bar at the back of the train is ideal for a nightcap.
The next day offers a choice of either a historic battlefield tour or a game drive. These options are interesting but by no means mandatory. Spending the day on the train would also be a wonderful way to while away time. There are card games and a library in the club car. The observation car is an open space where one can enjoy the countryside passing by. The last dinner is a festive affair with the waiting staff dressed in tuxedos and once again pulling out all the stops. Afterwards there is a cocktail party in the bar and a special turn down surprise in the cabin.
With its combination of classic luxury, impeccable service, outstanding food and wide choice of excursions the Rovos Rail train trip is the perfect choice for honeymoon couples that would like to be pampered while doing something slightly different. The trip described here was from Durban to Pretoria but the company has many other destinations in Africa including Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Dar Es Salaam and a few more. More information can be found at www.rovos.com
Spring is in the air
Brazil Honeymoon
Tropical Paradise on the Bahia Coast in Brazil
Discover the perfect getaway in warm & welcoming north eastern Brazil
Endless coconut groves set against an emerald green sea with year-round warm waters and more than seven miles of beaches hugged by coral reefs forming dozens of natural lakes. This is the setting of Praia do Forte, one of the largest protected areas on the Bahia coast in Brazil where Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte is located. A one-hour drive from the city of Salvador, the resort is the ideal destination for those looking to escape the UK’s cold winter and enjoy the excitement of tropical paradise, where the rhythms of samba and the contagious energy of party-loving locals open the door to an unforgettable holiday.
Nature is the first and last word at Praia do Forte, with coconut trees blending into the forest and the white sands of unspoilt beaches framing the resort’s vast gardens. Wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and lizards live on the grounds in harmony with guests. The resort’s architecture blends into the surrounding gardens and the interior design of the sea-facing rooms and suites boast natural materials and decorative pieces created by local artists. The furniture has been custom-designed by local artisans to emphasise spectacular views from all private spaces.
Relaxation for couples
A new Anantara Spa at the resort pampers guests in true serenity and with total relaxation. Those looking for a getaway entirely dedicated to wellbeing will be spoilt for choice with a beauty salon, fitness centre and relaxation area, as well as a large swimming pool with hydromassage, three saunas, ice water tank and stone path. The resort’s expert spa therapists offer pampering massages and treatments grounded in ancient Eastern therapies fused with Brazilian rituals sure to leave guests revitalised and refreshed.
After indulging in the spa, couples can sit back and relax on one of the resort’s 20 double sun loungers semi-submerged in the pool, overlooking the ocean. For a romantic end to the day, the hotel offers candlelit dinners with an exclusive menu served in a tropical and private setting.
Bahia Wining & Dining
Food and wine is another resort highlight. The ecoresort has three restaurants and four bars. Revered for its wide-ranging options, Goa Restaurant serves a buffet dinner with more than 100 local and international options, including traditional Bahia dishes which feature strong African influences and Brazilian ingredients. Moqueca, vatapá, caruru and chicken xinxim are just some of the authentic regional dishes which guests can savour.
Meanwhile, the restaurant À Sombra do Coqueiral offers amazing views of the infinity pool and ocean with a menu inspired by international and Mediterranean cuisine. The Tabaréu serves the best in Bahia cooking and seafood in a more relaxed atmosphere next to the beach. One dish definitely worth trying is the bean stew served on Saturdays while local artists perform live traditional music.
Tivoli Dream Night
In February, average sea temperatures reach a perfect 26ºC, promising warm tropical evenings in the hotel gardens for Tivoli Dream Night, an unforgettable programme of music and fine cuisine. The next edition on 16th February 2019 will be headlined by the queen of Brazilian beats Ivete Sangalo.
The exclusive, guest-only event starts with a special dinner followed by a rhythm-packed concert. With a career spanning more than 20 years, Ivete Sangalo is one of Brazil’s most popular and best-selling singers and has won more than 150 Brazilian and international awards. Past Tivoli Dream Night performers have included Dionne Warwick in 2017 and Michael Bolton in 2018.
To enjoy this incredible break in Brazilian paradise and the live serenading of Ivete Sangalo at the Tivoli Dream Night, the hotel has a special five-night package in a Master bedroom for two, with breakfast and dinner (non-alcoholic drinks included), starting from £2,103*. a
Nightly rates at Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte start from £277 for a double room on a half board basis.
To book and find out more phone 55 (71) 3676 4000, email reservas.tepf@tivolihotels.com or visit www.tivolihotels.com
*Price based on today’s exchange rate – €2,355 / €310
Romancing the Barras
Romancing the Barras
A Glasgow Love Story
I am continuously amazed, inspired and excited by the imagination, creativity and skill of other people, and this day (and the beautiful work that resulted from it) was very much a celebration of all of those qualities.
I had originally had the idea of organising a very small and meticulously planned styled photoshoot to showcase some the new pieces that I had been making, using one of the original 19th century brick walls in my studio as a backdrop.
Invariably, my initial idea and vision gathered pace very quickly, growing completely organically, and we ended up with something that had a much greater breadth of vision than I had ever initially imagined, whilst still remaining completely true to the light and feminine essence that was at the very core of the initial idea.
This photoshoot would not have been possible without each and every one of the talented creatives listed below, who were all incredibly generous with their time, experience and imagination. To each of them, thank you.
Sonia, Gioia Mia
