INTRODUCING... Gill Collins Ceremonies is helmed by Liverpool-based celebrant Gill. She’s one of the newest celebrants on the block in the Cheshire and Merseyside region having qualified earlier this year, and she can’t wait to bring her own brand of understanding, care and attention to detail to local couples’ wedding ceremonies. With an extensive background in healthcare, Gill has cared for and helped people throughout all stages of their lives, which we understand has made her see the incredible value in important life events and occasions such as weddings. She also loves nothing more than living life to the fullest and you’ll often find her salsa dancing, climbing hills with her four-legged friend and enjoying good food and wine with fine company. “I really enjoy the stories people tell me about their lives, how they met, what they love about each other and what makes them laugh,” Gill explains. “If you choose me to be your celebrant, I promise to write you a ceremony that’s bespoke and personal. Your ideas, wishes and dreams will be woven into the fabric of the ceremony to make your special day one that you’ll never forget.” To find out more, head over to www.gillcollinsceremonies.co.uk FIVE MINUTES WITH... Debbie Bennett owner of Wirral-based florist Lilac & Thyme Please tell us about Lilac & Thyme. We’re a wedding florist based on The Wirral and are passionate about all we do! The business was born out of my passion for all things floral. I’m a self-taught florist and am fanatical about learning new skills. We work with creative flair to put together beautiful fresh and faux flower displays for all occasions. We love what we do and put our heart and soul into our work to ensure that your wedding flowers are all you’ve dreamed of and more. From consultation to the actual day, we’re with you every step of the way, guiding you and recommending seasonal flowers and styles to suit your theme. What do you love most about working with weddings? It has to be seeing the look on a bride’s face on the morning of the wedding, when she sees her bouquet. It’s an image I never tire of! What’s your proudest achievement so far? We’ve had the privilege for two years in a row to be nominated for wedding florist of the year at a local prestigious wedding awards event, and we got through to the finals both times too. To say this was a huge honour for us is an understatement. The fact that our brides nominated and voted for us made what we do even more satisfying than it already was. We’re a small business and were up against large florists with up to 10 staff, so to be recognised like this was a huge achievement. Find out more about Lilac & Thyme at www.lilacandthyme.co.uk WINNING WAYS The winners of the UK Jewellery Awards 2022 were revealed recently at the Hilton London Metropole, and John Pass Jewellers, which has a store in Crewe, Cheshire, scooped up the win for Retail Sales Team of the Year. The team were praised by the expert judging panel for creating a team spirit that other businesses would be proud to emulate. Marking its 30th anniversary this year, the UK Jewellery Awards, organised by jewellery and watch industry title Retail Jeweller, is the country’s longest-running and most prestigious trade awards event. With 21 targeted categories, the awards cover every aspect of the industry from jewellery design and ethical business practice to customer service and successful retailing. So, to make sure you’re looked after by an award-winning team when you shop for your wedding rings head over to www.johnpass.co.uk www.richardmillerphotography.co.uk © Phil Weedon SPA HEAVEN The independent family-owned Manor House Hotel in Alsager, Cheshire, which started life as a 17th-century farmhouse, has finished its second phase of spa developments and has opened its new English Country Spa Garden. Making the most of the natural light and fresh air, this exciting new addition is inspired by the hotel’s picturesque rural location. Here, you can relax in the stunning outdoor seating areas come rain or shine or wander around the garden visiting the large vitality pool, sunken table top hydrotherapy tub, The Pavilion with a panoramic laconium and the Summer House where you can find the light relaxation lounge and patio. Then, make your way through a thermal journey and visit the salt steam inhalation chamber and the Potting Shed herbal sauna before braving the icy cool plunge bath. The final phase still to come is the Pool House. This will be an inviting space for solo spa goers, couples, friends and groups to gather in a house of relaxed elegance and pure laidback luxe. It’s the perfect hideout to enjoy a selection of delectable beverages and sweet treats. So, don’t delay grab your hens or spouse-to-be as there are a range of spa days and spa stays available with prices starting at £95 per person. Discover more at www.manorhousealsager.com 10
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