Dream Dresses

Dream Dresses

Subtle colours and versatile designs, which are playful yet romantic, will appeal to brides this wedding season.     Brides of Merivale owner Lisa Dermott says this season’s wedding dresses will again be subtle in colour with metallic golds, silver and platinum featuring. Brides are also opting for adaptable dresses with detachable pieces like sleeves, […]

I do (still!): wedding vow renewal ceremony

For some married couples saying “I do” once is enough, but more and more people are choosing to celebrate their love with a wedding vow renewal ceremony.     Over the years the vow renewal ceremony has grown in popularity, with couples opting to cement their bond and recommit to their partner. Whether a romantic […]

Via Sollertia

A new chapter: Via Sollertia

If someone special has bequeathed you jewellery that means so much, but just doesn’t suit, Via Sollertia has a brilliant solution – remodelling – to get the piece out of the drawer and onto you.     Jewellery designer Clare establishes the style of jewellery you like, be it classic, modern, art deco, or art […]

looks to love: Canterbury bride

Glancing at wedding dress trends for 2019, it’s clear that saying ‘yes to the dress’ doesn’t have to be a hunt for indiscernible white gowns. If you’re planning your big moment and wanting something unique and fashion forward, then look no further as we take you through five standout styles that have caught our eye […]

Culinary Capers

Culinary Capers: Canterbury bride

When it comes to weddings of 2018/2019, it’s all about making it your own. So not surprising then, this clever customisation is making its way through to the menu.     Although it’s the sentiment of the day that wins out in the end, marking your commitment as a couple, fact is, how it all […]

A royal flush

A royal flush: canterbury bride

Chances are you’ve heard the term ‘the Meghan Markle effect’ over the past few months. It was used to describe the fashionable clout wielded by our newest royal, the Duchess of Sussex, in the lead up to her May wedding to Prince Harry, as fans flocked to copy everything she wore.     But the […]

Diamond in the Rough

Diamond in the Rough: Via Sollertia

Absolutely everyone asks about the ‘engagement story’. Clare, jewellery designer at Via Sollertia in New Regent Street should know. She’s even witnessed a proposal. The stones and metallics at Clare’s atelier are spectacular. She lights up when talking about cuts of diamond and how a jewel will sit on a hand; matters of size, proportion […]

V For Hair and Beauty Merivale

Fashionable feminine locks: V For Hair and Beauty Merivale

V For Hair and Beauty Merivale has specialists in the team for whom balayage and ombre is their passion; creating beautiful fashionable, feminine looks for their clients. The free-hand application allows them to achieve a more natural and modern effect with subtle transitions between the chosen hues, whether blonde, brunette, red or the latest pastlefier […]

Ilam Homestead

A Heavenly Venue: Ilam Homestead

To visit the historic Ilam Homestead, now a wedding and functions centre, is to take air from a more elegant era. Gorgeous palatial details plus an old-English-style botanical backdrop set the homestead apart. Built in 1856 as the residence for the landowner of the entire suburb of Ilam, the homestead subsequently became part of the […]

Via Sollertia

Symbolic Sparkle: Via Sollertia

Going bespoke is a lovely tribute to a special relationship. It’s inherently romantic to seek out your own symbolic sparkle mixed with gorgeous gold, silver or platinum. In fact, deciding on an engagement ring, wedding rings, or other special occasion jewellery is one of life’s most delightful times. A family-owned Christchurch business since 1996, Via […]