We're looking for Essex newlyweds who have said 'I do' this year. All couples can enter the competition: it doesn't matter whether the event was large or small; modest or spectacular. Just click on 'I want to enter' link above to put your wedding forward. If you've been successful, we'll be in touch.
Voting for this round closes on 25 May 2012.
Meet the contenders
Couple: Tiffany Warboys and Luke Hillier Date: 3rd December, 2011 Venue: Braxted Park, Witham
The day A winter wonderland wedding was the theme for Tiffany and Luke. “So much detail went into our wedding,” says Tiffany. “Our spectacular cake looked more like an ornament and we had amazing table decorations which included twigs sprayed with snow and glitter, and wonderful crystal bouquets.”
Memorable moments “It was magical when Luke and I had some time alone after the ceremony,” says Tiffany. “It was important to me that I had my nan at my wedding. She was very ill at the time and passed away recently. I am glad she saw Luke and I get married.”
Couple: Jill Louise Condon and Alex Golledge Date: 19th February, 2012 Venue: Parklands Quendon Hall, Quendon
The day Waking up to perfect blue skies on their big day in February was a welcome surprise for Jill and Alex, and the sunshine set the tone for a relaxed and fun wedding, organised in just five weeks. “Parklands had an amazing value last-minute package that we really couldn’t turn down. They made us believe we could do it by being totally relaxed about the timescale, helping us every step of the way. Our friends and family couldn’t believe we had organised such a perfect day in only five weeks,” says Jill.
Memorable moments “I have so many favourite moments, from spending the morning getting ready with my bridesmaids, mum and sister, right through to the next morning, when we woke up to watch the sun rise over the grounds – there were deer just outside,” recalls Jill.
Couple: Lianne Ketley and Darren Lawrence Date: 2nd March, 2012 Venue: Three Rivers Golf & Country Club, Cold Norton
The day Lianne and Darren gave their day a vintage vibe after spotting some birdcages in a local shop. “We added daisies, twine and ivy to them, and found some shabby chic signs and twine hearts to decorate the reception room,” says Lianne. “Darren designed the table plan with photos of each guest and had them hanging from a vintage suitcase,” she adds.
Memorable moments “I’ll never forget the moment I walked down the aisle and saw Darren standing there, or when our son decided he wanted to join us for our first dance,” says Lianne. “The space hoppers we had outside after the ceremony also went down really well with the guests!”
Couple: Cassie Hearson and Andrew Pash Date: 20th December, 2011 Venue: Parklands Quendon Hall, Quendon
The day Cassie and Andrew tied the knot the week before Christmas and enjoyed a truly magical day at Quendon Hall. “It’s the most beautiful venue during the festive period, with floor to ceiling Christmas trees, and deer in the grounds,” says Cassie. The couple chose sapphire blue and silver to complement Cassie’s pure white dress. “I wanted a colour that would still have a winter feel but not the traditional red scheme you find at many festive weddings.”
Memorable moments “Everyone clapped as my Dad and I walked up the aisle. I was taken aback as I had never experienced that at a wedding before. I also loved seeing the children’s faces when Father Christmas made a special visit with presents. One of the highlights that makes us laugh at is that at the end of the evening we were escorted to our cottage to a hot bubble bath, and the best bit, ice cold milk and Oreos!”
The overall winners will not only claim the Wedding of the Year title and enjoy seeing their big day featured in An Essex Wedding, they'll also win a romantic two-night break at Stoke By Nayland Hotel Golf & Spa.
Set within 300 acres of countryside and with 80 contemporary bedrooms, two championship golf courses and a spa, the hotel is ideal for both hen parties and newlyweds alike. The state-of-the-art spa has a range of treatments available, including the popular Rasoul Egyptian Mud Therapy Experience.
The hotel is also opening five luxury Country Lodges in April this year, located on the estate. Overlooking a large lake and rolling countryside, the self-catered, serviced lodges will have a iroko wood exterior with cedar wood roof tiles, while the stylish interiors will be inspired by the 1940s and furnished to a high standard. Sleeping from two to 10 guests, ideal for large family wedding parties, guests will be able to make full use of the Stoke by Nayland facilities.
With a plethora of stunning banqueting suites, the hotel can also cater to both small and large weddings of up to 280 guests. With a licence for civil ceremonies, the rooms offer newlyweds private terraces and views over the lake - ideal for memorable wedding snaps.
Competitions are not open to employees (or their immediate families) of KD Media Publishing Ltd.
The competition closing date is subject to change without prior notice.
The winner(s) will be notified in writing.
The editor's decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
The prize is not transferable and has no monetary value.
If an advertised prize is not available, we reserve the right to offer an alternative prize of equal or greater value.
No purchase necessary to enter and there is no charge to enter via the website.
What do you get the couple that have everything? Well if you're anything like me some luxury champagne flutes never go a miss, and this elegant set is the perfect gift to add to your wedding list. Go classic or ask your guests for the personalised option and have your names engraved as a personal memento of your day. Visit www.gettingpersonal.co.uk
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