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Mahlatini Luxury Travel Logo

Interview With: Mahlatini Director, Gregory Fox

Company Name: Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Website: www.mahlatini.com

Head Office Location: Belfast

Tell us a little bit about Mahlatini Luxury Travel?

Mahlatini are luxury African travel specialists, covering many different destinations across the continent. Our team have all travelled extensively throughout the regions of Southern and Eastern Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands; many have also actually lived and worked there. Mahlatini operates from offices in Belfast, Northern Ireland, but tailor-makes trips for travellers from all corners of the globe. All of our African and Indian Ocean Island partners are the best in their field and are fully bonded through their local travel regulation bodies. We possess an intimate knowledge of each unique region and the finest properties they have to offer. Our constant aim is to ensure our customers have the very best African adventure

Kaya Maya, Lake Malawi

What does Mahlatini mean and where does the name originate from?

Mahlatini is a Zulu word meaning bushman or “lover of the African wilderness”. It is a sign of respect given to all travellers who, like us, believe Africa to be one of the most mesmerising and special places on earth.

Thonga Beach Lodge, South Africa

What destinations does Mahlatini Luxury Travel cover?

Mahlatini cover all the established and emerging destinations across Southern and Eastern Africa, the Indian Ocean Islands and Emirates. Under these headings are some of the most beautiful places on earth, from the island paradise of the Seychelles to the sweeping plains of Kenya.

LUX Belle Mare, Mauritus

What service can couples expect if they book their honeymoon with Mahlatini Luxury Travel?

At Mahlatini we are interested in getting to know our customers and understanding their unique needs and requirements. From this and through our knowledgeable staff we are able to create the ideal honeymoon itinerary that will be tailor-made to suit you. Whatever you wish for during your special time together we can make it happen, from Champagne in your room upon arrival, to romantic candlelit baths, to private dinners in the wilderness, the world is your oyster and you are guaranteed a once in a lifetime experience.

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Momentos Photography Logo

Interview with: Manuel Sabater

Company Name: Momentos Photography

Website: www.momentos-photography.co.uk

Location / Coverage: We are based in Devon and also cover Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.

Bride sitting on window ledge with flower girl

How did the business get started and who works at Momentos Photography?

Josh and I are partners in the business, both being professional wedding photographers, and we also have Sarah, who is our Events Coordinator. The company was started as a result of a single passion from both myself and Josh – taking great photos! This, together with impeccable customer care and business sense, has been key to our success.

Can you remember how old you were when you took your first picture? What was it of?

I was seven, and my first picture was of my rather fat Jack Russell, named Dumbo! Josh’s first picture was when he was 10 years old, and the subject was a hedgehog!

Bridesmaid in red dress

Which areas of the UK do you cover?

Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.

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Tim Mugabi - Into That Dress

Into That Dress Logo

Interview with: Tim Mugabi

Company Name: Into That Dress

Website: www.intothatdress.com

Location: London

What does Into That Dress do?

Into That Dress is a personal training service; we help brides look and most importantly feel their very best on their big day. This means creating tailored exercise plans to focus on the areas the bride wants to work on most to make sure she looks good in her dress. I also look after the bride’s nutrition, getting an accurate view of what she’s currently eating and figuring out how to make her diet better. Lastly, we’re there when times get tough and the bride doesn’t feel like doing what’s necessary to look her best; we encourage and motivate.

Bride to be boxing

How did the business start and how long has it been going?

I’d been a personal trainer for 2 years when it occurred to me that there was no strong offering specifically aimed at women who wanted to lose weight for their wedding. Strictly speaking, a bride can just do what anyone else is doing, but nobody was talking to brides about their unique situation compared to everyone else; they weren’t taking advantage of that extra motivation a bride has to look her best. So I started Into That Dress in 2011, to ignite that fire inside every bride and make sure it’s used to its potential in helping them look their best.

Where is Into That Dress based and what areas do you cover?

Into That Dress is based in South London, so I cover South, Central and West London.

Who works at Into That Dress?

At present it’s just me, but in time I’ll take on more trainers to help even more brides

How can Into That Dress help brides-to-be?

We take the stress out of losing weight for your wedding day by guiding you the entire way. Many brides want to lose weight for their wedding day so they look and feel extra special, but receive conflicting advice on how to do so. As a result many end up on drastic crash diets and excessive exercise routines. Often, they’re left worse off than when they started; less healthy and exhausted! We prevent this from happening by offering the best advice on how to get in shape the right way. No crash diets, no crazy exercise routines, no confusion and no stress.

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Jess Petrie Photography Logo

Interview with: Jess Petrie Photography

Company Name: Jess Petrie Photography

Website: www.jesspetrie.com

Location / Coverage: Based in Yorkshire, Covering the whole of the U.K and abroad

Jess Petrie Photography photographing bride and groom

How did your business get started and who works at Jess Petrie Photography?

I’ve had 12 years experience in weddings, people, travel and landscape photography. Whilst studying art, fashion and photography at college I assisted a pro wedding photographer most weekends (for a number of years) and graduated with a degree in art photography in 2004. I later worked with young people as a trinity arts advisor, whilst shooting weddings and portraits on the side. I was made redundant 2011 and finally went for my dream of being a full-time wedding & portrait photographer.

Dark picture just showing bride and groom - Picture by Jess Petrie Photography

So had you always wanted to be a photographer?

Funnily enough the answer is yes!

Can you remember how old you were when you took your first picture? What was it of?

My first memory is when I was around 7 years old. Apparently I took the best pictures in my family (I was told that my compositions were way better than my Nan’s as she used to chop everyone’s heads off… although that’s now in fashion ;) ); that was always a bit of a standing joke.

Bride holding bouquet looking to side - Picture by Jess Petrie Photography Bride holding bouquet - Picture by Jess Petrie Photography

Which areas of the UK do you cover?

Based in Yorkshire, I cover everything from winter wonderland weddings in the gorgeous countryside on my doorstep to sun-drenched ceremonies on far away shores.

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Alix Marina-Chouhan of Lumiere Photography

Interview with: Alix Marina-Chouhan

Company Name: Lumiere Photography

Website: www.lumiere-photography.co.uk

Location / Coverage: UK, Europe, further..

How did the business get started and who works at Lumiere Photography?

I had my first book published in 1996 but never thought of being a photographer. One friend asked me to take photos at his wedding and he liked mine more than the professional ones, so that made me think I could do it.

I am the only person at Lumiere and I have thought about having other photographers with me in the future, but not now. I do refer work to other photographers if I am booked though. There are many photographers whose work I love.

Bride sitting on grass - Picture by Lumiere Photography

Had you always wanted to be a photographer?

I always wanted to take photographs. As a kid I remember framing with my fingers to focus on the detail I imagined people didn’t see, to bring it to attention, to find beauty in the ordinary.

My first boyfriend wanted to be a photographer, and was very good too, but was told it wasn’t a serious job, so I never considered it. I learned a lot from him though and bought my first proper camera when we split up.

Bride and groom - Picture by Lumiere Photography

Can you remember how old you were when you took your first picture? What was it of?

I was given a really bad point and shoot at 7 and I took a few photos before I was so annoyed with it taking wide angle photos I couldn’t crop or manipulate that I don’t think I even developed the last roll.

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Karen Berrington - Perditas Wedding Shoes

Perditas Wedding Shoes Logo

Interview with: Karen Berrington

Company Name: Perdita’s Wedding Shoes

Website: www.perditas.co.uk

Location: Newcastle-under-Lyme, Online

What does Perdita’s Wedding Shoes do?

Perdita’s supplies brides, bridesmaids and mother of the bride shoes for the wedding day. We can dye items to match outfits perfectly, or add crystals, pearls and embellishments to match your dress.

Rainbow Club shoes

How did the business start and how long has it been going?

I started Perdita’s in my garden shed after my own wedding. I struggled to find fashionable shoes for myself and my bridesmaids so decided to start my own wedding business. We have grown from strength to strength each year and have been in business for 12 years now.

Where is Perdita’s Wedding Shoes based and what areas do you cover?

Until 2012 we had been online only, but last year we opened our warehouse to the public. This has been so popular that we have decided to move into our first high street shop which will open in May this year; we are very excited. We ship as far as Australia.

Bridal shoes

Who works at Perdita’s Wedding Shoes?

We are a small team, with myself and Fiona heading the showroom and internet side of the business, my daughter Rebecca heads the marketing, Jean in the packing department and Steve in accounts.

What type of shoes does Perdita’s Wedding Shoes sell?

We sell wedding, prom and special occasion shoes and accessories. The shoes we can dye to match customers’ outfits, so they are actually suitable for many special occasions.

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Stephen Bishop Suiting

Stephen Bishop Suiting is a new concept store offering the latest and most up to date formal wear and groomswear ranges available within the UK.

Founder Stephen Bishop, The Wedding Community’s Groomswear Advice Expert, has over 30 years of menswear experience, 25 years of which has been specialising in men’s formal wear. Having cut his cloth at an award-winning formal wear company, Stephen noticed a shift in client need and observed an increase in the importance placed on a groom and his groomsmen. To cater for this, Stephen has used his experience of suit design and accessorizing to create a suiting specialist store catering for hire, suiting to buy, or made to measure.

Wedding Suit - Stephen Bishop Suiting

To complement this unique suit offering is a service based on absolute care and experience. The Stephen Bishop Suiting store has been designed to bring a groom and his groomsmen a service often reserved for a bride. With a boutique and appointment only offering, you can view an exclusive range of suiting in a cool, calm and comfortable environment.

Waistcoats - Stephen Bishop Suiting

Suit Hire

The Stephen Bishop range has been created using the most delicate fabrics and the most modern fit. The range consists of every shape and size, and caters for every age, so each of your groomsmen will look as fantastic as the next.

Shirt and Tie - Stephen Bishop Suiting

Off the Peg

In-store will be a range of suiting designed by Stephen Bishop, simply with a groom and his wedding in mind. Different to the ‘high street suit’, you will find suiting that is shaped to be modern yet formal at the same time. With professional alternations available, these ready to wear suits can be adapted to be just perfect.

Buttonhole - Stephen Bishop Suiting

Made to Measure

In keeping with the Stephen Bishop Suiting ethos of quality, class and that personal touch, the team are pleased to offer a truly bespoke made to measure service. Unlike other ‘made to measure’ services, the service is steeped in tradition and experience, the only way to create a gentleman’s suit.

Cufflinks - Stephen Bishop Suiting

Accessories

Accessories are just as important as a suit. Waistcoats, shirts, neckwear, cufflinks and shoes are all mostly own design both in pattern and fit. Whether it is handmade Swarovski crystal cufflinks as a gift, or world exclusive footwear by none other than Oliver Sweeney, a complete outfit based on quality is assured.

To find out more about Stephen Bishop Suiting go to www.stephenbishopsuiting.com, or make an appointment to visit the brand new store at 28 High Street, Woking, Surrey, GU21 6BW.

Visit the Stephen Bishop Suiting supplier page on The Wedding Community

Images courtesy of Carla Thomas Photography

Real Simple Photography Logo

Interview with: Jacques Lloyd

Company Name: Real Simple Photography

Website: www.realsimplephotography.net

Location / Coverage: Alton, Hampshire

How did the business get started and who works at Real Simple Photography?

Three years ago I decided to take the plunge and my hobby became my full time career; I have never looked back. At the time I had my Canon 40D with a couple of lenses and so it all started. Business was slow at the start but quickly picked up, and I was learning and growing with every shoot. Initially I decided to focus mainly on weddings, adding family, bump (pregnancy) and corporate events soon after I started. I’m the main photographer and I’m always assisted by my wife.

Bride and groom on beach with pink parasol - Picture by Real Simple Photography

Had you always wanted to be a photographer?

Well let’s get that one out the way – the answer is “nope” :) . I picked up my first semi pro camera in 2007 and the bug bit me; I’ve been hooked since then. I make it my mission to learn something new every day.

Groom kissing bride on cheek in street - Picture by Real Simple Photography

Can you remember how old you were when you took your first picture? What was it of?

I think I was +/- 14 years old and yes, it was a close up shot of a flower.

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Crumb Logo

Interview with: Vicky Casey (Director at Crumb.)

Company Name: Crumb.

Website: www.enjoycrumb.com

Location / Coverage: Based in Leeds / Nationwide Coverage

What does Crumb. do?

We send cake gifts by post nationwide. All our lovely cake boxes are letterbox friendly and are a lovely way to say thank you to a friend or relation. Our signature product is a full afternoon tea party: tea, cakes, doilies, napkins and cake toppers – perfect for an impromptu bridal shower or girly session. We even have a cake and cocktails box to add a bit of extra fun to proceedings – a lovely Hen Party treat. All our boxes come with a handwritten gift card so you can send your personal greeting with cakes!

Crumb Afternoon Tea Party

How did the business start and how long has it been going?

Crumb was founded in 2011 as a new venture to provide nationwide letterbox friendly cakes. We wanted to provide an alternative to sending flowers or chocolates as a gift by post, and thought cakes would be a lovely thing to receive through your letterbox. Adding the gift card was an important part of our service so that people could send a complete gift.

Who works at Crumb.?

Crumb was started by Vicky and Helen, two new mums looking for a more flexible work life balance. We are based in Leeds and have a background in bakery and design. We remain a flexible hours business and we find this enables Crumb to offer better customer service as orders can be processed in the evening and dispatched within 2 days.

Crumb Luxury Caramel Shortbread

What areas of the UK do you cover?

We send our cakes nationwide; one box could be going to Aberdeen, the next to Plymouth.

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Victoria Fawkes

Victoria Fawkes Photography Logo

Interview with: Victoria Fawkes

Company Name: Victoria Fawkes Photography

Website: www.victoriafawkes.co.uk

Location / Coverage: Kingston and surrounding Surrey area

How did the business get started and who works at Victoria Fawkes Photography?

In 2004, I was offered the chance of voluntary redundancy from my Event Management job in the City. I decided this was an amazing opportunity to go back to college and re-train to fulfil my dream of becoming a photographer. I enrolled on the Professional Photography Practice course at The London College of Communication and haven’t looked back since. I predominantly work alone, but do have some amazing assistants that come to help on the larger weddings.

Bride and groom laughing as they sign the register - Picture by Victoria Fawkes Photography

Had you always wanted to be a photographer?

Yes, I was always the one with the camera at every party! I think I may have got the bug from my mum, who made it a personal challenge to always take a photo of every single person at her parties; this job was then passed to me. It’s great to have all those memories of great times!

Can you remember how old you were when you took your first picture? What was it of?

I can remember taking a camera on a trip to Prague. I was 16 and my grandma decided that I should spread my wings and see more of the rest of the world. We spent a weekend getting up to all the normal touristy things – exploring the Charles Bridge, visiting cathedrals… I vividly remember taking photographs of protesters that were on hunger strike, as the country had only just come out of communism. I still have those photos squirreled away in one of my many albums.

Bride looking out of window - Picture by Victoria Fawkes Photography Close up of bride's updo - Picture by Victoria Fawkes Photography

Which areas of the UK do you cover?

I am a Kingston based photographer and try to keep my work within a 25 mile radius, but do end up travelling nationwide sometimes!

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