No Phones Allowed: The Ins and Outs of Unplugged Weddings Global Wedding Awards 2026 Featuring: To Have and to Hold: Tips for Getting Your Makeup to Last Your Whole Wedding Day
Sofi Parry, Senior Editor Phone: 01283 365204 Website: lux-life.digital Global Wedding Awards 2026 No information contained on or in this website constitutes investment advice or an offer to invest or to provide management services and is subject to correction, completion and amendment without notice. Neither AI nor any of its associated entities are authorised to give financial advice of any nature nor are they regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Prior to making any investment, AI recommends that any prospective investor should consult with its own investment, accounting, legal and tax advisers to evaluate independently the risks, consequences and suitability of that investment. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. LUXlife Magazine is over the moon to announce the return of the Global Wedding Awards 2026 – and this year, we’re celebrating a whole decade of “I do’s!” For ten magical years, the Global Wedding Awards have been sprinkling confetti over the incredible talent that makes weddings truly unforgettable. From show-stopping planners and dreamy destinations to jaw-dropping gowns, talented photographers, and florists who turn petals into poetry – we’re celebrating everyone who brings love stories to life! This milestone year is all about honouring the creativity, passion, and pure joy that make the global wedding industry shine. Whether you’re crafting fairy-tale ceremonies, curating oncein-a-lifetime experiences, or designing those tiny details that make hearts flutter – this is your moment to sparkle brighter than ever!
4. Party Pets: 10 Ways To Celebrate Your Wedding Day With Your Whole Family 6. Pre-Wedding Pamper Timeline 8. No Phones Allowed: The Ins and Outs of Unplugged Weddings 10. Lindos Weddings: Most Dedicated Wedding Planner 2026 (Rhodes): Karen Harvey 11. Ella’s Alterations: Best Bridal & Formalwear Alterations Studio 2026 – USA & LUXlife Precision Bridal Tailoring & Client Confidence Excellence Award 2026 12. Intimate Weddings Cyprus: Best Luxury Wedding Planning Service 2026 – Cyprus & LUXlife Client Satisfaction Excellence Award 2026 13. WedAwai Ltd: Best Emerging Destination Wedding Matchmaking Platform 2026 – UK & LUXlife Wedding Booking Innovation & Excellence Award 2026 14. To Have and to Hold: Tips for Getting Your Makeup to Last Your Whole Wedding Day 15. The TLC Guide To Spring Weddings Contents
4 | LUXlife Magazine 1. Start with the engagement Your animals are there for every moment of your day-to-day lives, so it only makes sense for them to be a big part of these special moments too. Including your pet on this journey doesn’t just have to start with the wedding. Try incorporating your pet into your engagement too. You can practice ring bearing by making your dog or cat bring the engagement ring or even include some anecdotes about your pets in your heart-warming speech. 2. Pet-friendly venues You’ll want to make sure you’ve got a pet-friendly venue which can accommodate your cats and dogs. Everything from the right to have your pet there to snacks should be sorted for you, so you can relax and enjoy the day knowing your pet is enjoying the day just as much as you. Locations such as wedding venues in Cumbria or other rural areas make for the perfect pet spot. You’ll want to ensure there’s plenty of walking space for your dog to enjoy the outdoors as much as the indoors. Make sure to discuss bringing your pets with your wedding organisers and venue, they might even be able to help with a pet sitter! 3. Party with a pet sitter Don’t forget to hire a pet sitter for the party. You don’t want to be worrying about where your pet is when you’re saying your vows. A designated pet sitter can ensure your pet has everything it needs from drinks and snacks to toilet opportunities. This way, you can have the joy of having your pets attend without the stress of the situation. 4. Ring bearer It is no surprise that many people opt to include their pets as ring bearers in their wedding ceremonies. Every animal from cats and dogs to your tortoise can be steered down the aisle and be a great fun and heartwarming addition – although you might be waiting a while! Party Pets: 10 Ways To Celebrate Your Wedding Day With Your Whole Family Your wedding day is a big celebration, and this means everyone you want should be there – including your pets. We have all embraced pets into our homes and hearts, with many people wanting these fur babies to celebrate our special moments with us. With 62% of British households owning a pet, we can expect plenty of four-legged friends to join our wedding ceremonies. But how do you incorporate your animals? Sarah Bryning, wedding coordinator at Briery Wood Country House says: “From intimate weddings to big bashes, there’s room for everyone’s furry friends on their big day. It is no surprise that so many people are starting to incorporate animals into their weddings when they already make up such a big part of our daily lives. And with more animal-accessible locations appearing all the time, it is no surprise our pets are joining us on more adventures than ever before!”
Global Wedding Awards 2026 | 5 Our pets are loyal and can bring a lot of excitement to a wedding. Your dog will certainly be happy to see you down the end of the aisle and can help bring even more laughter and joy to what can sometimes be a serious moment. And if you’re nervous walking down the aisle, whether from the having everyone watch you or from the pressure of this big moment, taking your pet down the aisle with you can be calming and make the moment a bit easier. 5. Paw party Don’t simply have your pets at the party. Make sure you invite your guests to bring along their own furry friends so that the animals can also enjoy the party. Your dog doesn’t want to sit through your wedding speeches alone so make sure they’ve got some company for the day. This can also make a great photo opportunity with each pet adorned with their own boy ties and hats for the special occasion. 6. Sewn into your clothing If your pet can’t attend, or you simply want them a bit closer to your heart, then why not incorporate some sewing into your clothing? This could be your pet’s name, a picture of them, or even a laced outline of their nose or paw print for an extra special touch. This can also be a great keepsake for the years to come. 7. Paw-print sign-off Start off your wedding in the right way by making sure your invites fit the theme. When sending out your save-the-dates, make sure you’re including something special to your pet. This can include a custom paw-print sign-off from your cat or dog. After all, it is their approval that matters most after all! 8. Name a drink after them Your drink station is likely to be a popular place at your wedding, whether to add to the celebration or to cool off after some much-deserved dancing. Why not name a drink after yourself, your partner, and your pet? This can be a small touch to your wedding which adds your animals to the party even if they cannot attend. 9. Cake topper Your cake topper is a representation of you and your partner at the start of this journey – and nothing completes the little family more than your furry friend. Add a cake topper designed to look like your cat, dog, or other pets for something extra special. Why not also have a smaller, separate cake made specifically for your dog? Add an animal-friendly tier to your cake so that every pet can enjoy their own slice while you sit down to eat your own. Bringing your pet into your cake-cutting ceremony can make for some memorable moments and great photos – especially if you and your partner feed them some cake too. 10. Ditch the daisies for dogs Looking for a memorable photo opportunity that is a bit unique? Why not ditch the flowers for your furry friends and take your wedding photographs with your pets? Everyone can have their own pet in their arms instead of the traditional bouquet or empty hands. And who knows, the mischief of pets might bring out some memorable moments!
Jun22596 6 | LUXlife Magazine Sarah Bryning, wedding coordinator at Lake District Country Hotels, a wedding venue in Windermere, says: “You deserve to look and feel your best on the big day. The stress of planning everything is enough to make anyone sweat, but making sure you’re planning your beauty treatments in the right order is essential for making sure everything is done smoothly, so you can enjoy your big day without worrying about a faded tan or suffering from a bad hair day.” Teeth Whitening Want to feel confident in your smile with every photograph? If you’re looking to have pearly whites for your wedding day, then you might consider getting your teeth whitened professionally. You should book an appointment three months in advance as teeth whitening can take multiple appointments. Doing it in advance means you can avoid the dreaded teeth sensitivity too. Teeth whitening can last anywhere between a few months and three years. If you want an additional brighten before the big day, you can apply an at-home whitening strip. Try to avoid food and drink that can dye your teeth such as red wine and coffee. Botox and lip fillers If you’re considering having some Botox before the big day, make sure to speak to a trusted specialist in advance. You will want your appointment to be two months before your wedding. This gives the Botox enough Pre-Wedding Pamper Timeline Data shows that Brits spend over £22,500 on their wedding, on average. From everything from the venue to beauty treatments, getting the most out of your money and easing some of the preparation stress means knowing when to plan everything. time to work, as it can take you a few weeks to notice a difference. Botox can last between three and four months. Having your Botox treatment with enough time can mean that you don’t have to worry about bad reactions ruining your big day. Lip fillers usually last between six and eighteen months – if you’re planning to have these closer to your wedding day, two months beforehand can give you enough time to feel comfortable and reduce any swelling. Making sure you’re booking in advance means you don’t miss out. Hair colour Whether you’re going for a bold colour or something a bit more natural, having your hair professionally dyed before your wedding day can make you feel as confident as you look. A professional hair dye can last anywhere from six to twelve weeks, so make sure you’re booking your appointment with a trusted hairdresser two months in advance for the brightest hair. However, you should be planning your hair colour up to a year in advance. If you’re unsure what colour you want, this can give you the chance to try out a few different colours in advance. Eyebrows Another treatment you will want to plan in advance is your eyebrows. Depending on what you want done, you will want to plan this three weeks ahead of your wedding. A professional eyebrow threading can last between two and five weeks, waxing lasts three to six weeks, and a professional eyebrow tint usually lasts between four to six weeks. Getting an appointment a couple of weeks before your wedding can prevent bumps, burns, or other problems from ruining your day. To maintain your eyebrows, try plucking the odd hair a few days before. Nails While you should be deciding on a colour which complements your colour theme, outfits, and even hair well in advance, you won’t want to get your nails done too soon. Not only is there a risk of chipping and breaking, but professional nails need filling in every two to three weeks. You should get your nails done a month in advance, to make sure you like the shape and colour you’ve decided on, with a reserve booking to fill in the growth one to two weeks before your wedding. Hair cut A haircut can make you feel fresh for your big day. Scheduling your appointment early can ensure you don’t miss out, especially during busy times of the year. Try booking yourself in for a haircut two weeks before your wedding.
Global Wedding Awards 2026 | 7 By choosing to have your hair cut closer to your wedding, you can add colour brightening and hair treatments into the mix, so you’re your most confident self. Make sure you’re planning what you would like done with your hair well in advance, however. If you have a trusted hairdresser, discuss options for your hair during your dying session. Waxing You don’t want to be worrying about your body hair during your wedding ceremony, reception, or even the wedding night. If you’re planning to get a wax, make sure you’re booking it two weeks before your wedding. A professional wax should last between three to four weeks, depending on your hair. Two weeks beforehand means that you don’t have to worry about stubble coming back through yet while giving your skin some time to calm down after. Facials and a massage Feeling and looking your best means giving yourself a bit of a pamper and treating yourself in the run-up to your wedding. It can be a stressful time, so having a massage and a facial can help you unwind in the runup to the big day. If you’re booking a facial, try to book it one to two weeks before your big day. Make sure you’re having a gentle facial which uses products that your skin knows to avoid breakouts. Tanning It is the week of your wedding and everything is becoming a bit more fast-paced. It is time for the finishing touches. One final beauty treatment is making sure your tan is right. If you know the colour you’re going for, and you have a trusted application process, try tanning the week of your wedding. A spray tan can last up to a week. If you’re unsure what colour or method you want to go for, making sure you’re planning a year in advance can give you time to practice your technique, try different tones, or find a professional to help. Pedicure Add to the stress relief with a last-minute pedicure during the week of your wedding. A professional pedicure can last a week or two, so leaving this treatment close to the big day can mean you’re looking and feeling your best. Take your loved ones with you to make a day of it. And why not top up your nails with a manicure while you’re there, if you’ve got the budget and time to spare? This extra touch up can save your nails from chips or breakage that might’ve occurred in the last week. Feeling your best on your wedding day means feeling confident. By planning your beauty treatments in advance, you can ensure you’re not missing out on what you need to make you feel amazing during the big day.
Jun22596 8 | LUXlife Magazine As with all things, unplugged weddings come with their fair share of positives and drawbacks. Lake District Country Hotels, owners of luxurious Lake District wedding venues, touch on the pros and cons of a device-free ceremony while offering tips on how to inform your guests you’re opting for unplugged celebrations. The benefits of an unplugged wedding Bear in mind that there are many variations on this relatively recent concept. Whether it’s a ‘no photo policy’ for the vow-exchange moment only or a ‘social media ban’ for the entire celebration, unplugged weddings exist in different shapes and forms. Whatever your take on this trend, the decision to forbid phones and Instagram from your ceremony has a number of advantages. Keeps people’s attention on the event Without phones and cameras at hand, your guests will have the chance to truly immerse themselves in the big day that you’ve spent months to perfect. Sarah Bryning, Wedding Coordinator at Briery Wood Country House Hotel, said: “You have put a lot of effort into organising your special event, so you don’t want your invitees to be checking their Facebook feed as you strut down the aisle. “By asking your guests to put their devices away during pivotal stages of the ceremony – or even for the full day – you can create a more intimate, unique atmosphere. This is because you’ll all be able to focus and enjoy those once-in-a-lifetime moments. “As soon as the phones are out, cameras flashing, and social media updated with posts and pics, you might lose that element of genuineness.” No Phones Allowed: The Ins and Outs of Unplugged Weddings In the age of technology and social media, it is difficult to imagine a snap-free ceremony or special event where devices are not allowed. However, ‘unplugged weddings’ are quickly becoming a popular trend, with 75% of Brit couples admitting they are having – or considering – a ceremony without phones or cameras. The only ‘invitee’ that’s allowed to document the big day with a device is the professional photographer. Allows for a private wedding It is important to remember that it’s you and your better half tying the knot. So, ultimately, it is up to you as a couple to decide how and when memories are shared. Opting for an unplugged wedding will allow you to kiss your partner and slice the cake without it being live-streamed or shared all over the internet. In short, it means that your privacy is respected, and it allows you to pick your favourite snaps after the wedding and choose what to disclose to the rest of the world.
Global Wedding Awards 2026 | 9 Better professional photos Yes, phones and cameras have evolved over time. But this doesn’t mean your auntie’s photographic skills will have improved too. Banning devices on your wedding day and relying on a professional photographer will help you capture unforgettable moments that aren’t grainy, dark, or unflattering. What’s more, by asking your friends and family to be unplugged during the celebrations, your photographer won’t have to worry about invitees obstructing their shots or camera flashes glaring in the background. Prevents noises and distractions If you don’t feel comfortable asking your guests to ditch their phones for the entirety of the day, you may still want to encourage them to silence their devices. In theatres and cinemas, audiences are asked to turn down the volume on their phones to avoid interruptions during the show. So why shouldn’t you do the same? This will minimise the risk of phones ringing as you recite your vows or disrupting crucial moments throughout the day. The downsides of an unplugged wedding Even though unplugged weddings have a wide range of advantages, they may not be every couple’s cup of tea. Here are some of the reasons why a device-free ceremony may not work for everyone: Guest disappointment – There is a chance that many of your guests will have been looking forward to your special day for a long time. So, they might feel upset or frustrated about not being able to use their phones or cameras to capture moments of the wedding they would like to hold onto for years to come. Limited engagement – Some invitees might want to take pictures and share updates of the ceremony with loved ones who – for whatever reason – are not able to attend the wedding. If the event is unplugged, out-of-town friends and relatives might miss out completely on the unfolding celebrations. Reduced flexibility – Did you have to leave your pooch with a dogsitter? Have your friends taken their toddler to their parents’ home and want regular updates? An unplugged wedding might limit people’s flexibility to handle personal matters, whether it’s monitoring childcare or staying connected with other impelling commitments. How to keep everyone smiling at a phone-free wedding If you are keen on the idea of an unplugged wedding but want to keep your sceptical guests happy, make sure to inform them about your plans in advance. For example, you could mention it in your wedding invitations, display tongue-in-cheek signs throughout the venue, or ask one of your trusted invitees to make an announcement before the celebrations begin. A couple of days after the event, as your guests wait for all the official wedding photographs to be ready, think about forwarding them a handful to whet their appetite. Alternatively, you could bring in a photo booth for the reception where your friends and family can snap some instant photos to take home that same evening. Whatever you choose, make sure it is what you and your better half truly want. If you would love an unplugged wedding where devices are forbidden for a few hours, so be it – if you’re happy, your guests are bound to be delighted too!
10 | LUXlife Magazine Most Dedicated Wedding Planner 2026 (Rhodes): Karen Harvey Greece remains one of the most popular choices for a destination wedding, due to its natural beauty, climate, and wide variety of stunning ceremony locations. Rhodes, and especially the village of Lindos, has emerged as an iconic destination for couples seeking a romantic Mediterranean setting combined with reliable wedding infrastructure. No one knows this more than top destination wedding planner Karen Harvey, Founder of Lindos Weddings. As we celebrate Lindos Weddings in the Global Wedding Awards 2026, we sat down with Karen to find out more. Based on the beautiful Greek island of Rhodes, Lindos Weddings is a leading wedding planning company owned and operated by Karen Harvey. Karen first arrived in Lindos in 1992 and knew from that moment that the village would hold a special place in her heart. She fell in love with the locals and their way of life, the stunning scenery, endless sunny days, and magnificent blue seas. Coupling her passion for people, love for the island, and invaluable background, Karen established herself as a wedding planner in 2004. “Lindos is one of the most magical places in Greece to get married, with its whitewashed architecture, breathtaking sea views, and historic charm. Many of our couples fall in love with the location the moment they see it, and it is a privilege to help them create such meaningful memories here with their family and friends.” Now, Lindos Weddings stands as the largest independent wedding planner on the island. Karen works alongside a dedicated team of nine employees who each play an important role in ensuring that every wedding delivered runs seamlessly. The business specialises in helping couples, primarily from the UK, plan and celebrate their destination wedding in Greece. Many of these couples are planning their wedding from abroad, often balancing busy lives and limited travel time, and seek out Lindos Weddings to make planning from a distance feel easy, enjoyable, and stress-free. The Lindos Weddings team works in close collaboration with each couple, supporting them from the very first enquiry through to the wedding day itself. It offers a comprehensive range of services, spanning venue sourcing, supplier coordination, legal and ceremony guidance, planning timelines, guest logistics, and full on-the-day coordination. As Karen lives and works locally, she has built strong relationships with trusted venues and suppliers across Lindos, allowing her to provide couples with reliable recommendations and ensuring that every detail is executed exactly. “Many of the couples I work with are planning their first visit to Rhodes at the same time as planning their wedding, so building trust and providing reassurance is a huge part of what I do,” Karen told us. “I believe communication is key, and I ensure that couples always feel supported and informed throughout the process. My aim is for couples to feel that they have someone on the island who truly cares about their wedding as much as they do.” Planning and coordinating destination weddings requires a significant level of organisation, flexibility, and teamwork, particularly during the busy wedding season. Destination weddings often involve many moving parts, including suppliers, venues, transportation, and guest management, and retaining a well-organised team is central to Lindos Weddings’ success. Every member of the team operates with the same shared goal: to create a warm, supportive environment where couples feel completely confident that their wedding day is in safe hands. The future of Lindos Weddings will be focused on continuous growth, whilst maintaining the personal service and attention to detail that is so highly valued by its couples. The nature of destination weddings is constantly evolving, with couples increasingly looking for unique and meaningful experiences for themselves and their guests. Karen intends to continue refining Lindos Weddings’ planning processes and services to ensure that couples organising their wedding from abroad feel fully supported, informed, and excited throughout the entire journey. “As we move through 2026, the outlook is very positive,” Karen shared. “Interest in destination weddings in Greece remains strong, and Rhodes continues to be a popular choice for couples from the UK and across Europe. We are already seeing exciting plans come together for the upcoming season, with couples embracing creative ideas, beautiful venues, and meaningful celebrations with their closest family and friends. “I feel incredibly fortunate to work in such a beautiful destination and to be part of so many special celebrations each year. Every wedding is unique, and it is always an honour to play a role in bringing those dreams to life here in Rhodes.” Contact: Karen Harvey Company: Lindos Weddings Web Address: www.lindoswedding.com
Global Wedding Awards 2026 | 11 The story of Ella’s Alterations begins with its namesake owner, who arrived in the US as an immigrant from Asia. Ella’s family were not rich, but what they did have was a Singer sewing machine. Ella’s mother was herself a master tailor, and she would create gorgeous dresses for both Ella and her siblings, in the process establishing this future business owner to follow in her footsteps and one day become the woman behind one of Florida’s foremost bridal and formalwear alterations studios. Following its recognition in this programme, we caught up with Ella for more. Best Bridal & Formalwear Alterations Studio 2026 – USA & LUXlife Precision Bridal Tailoring & Client Confidence Excellence Award 2026 Detailing this, Ella explained: “It is a high-touch wedding dress alteration experience designed to take a gown from off the rack and make it look as though it was made just for you. This includes precision bodice reshaping, expert hemming for your exact shoes and venue, professional bustle creation, and fine detail work like lace blending, strap redesigns, corset back conversions, and sleeve customisation. The goal is not only to make the dress fit, but to make you feel unstoppable when you walk down the aisle into your forever.” More than this, its signature bridal alterations service, what sets Ella’s Alterations apart in this space is that what it does is real bridal tailoring, not the basic hemming and ‘hope for the best’ adopted by many of its contemporaries. By focusing on the difficult bits that most tailors avoid – think structural fixes and full silhouette corrections – every wedding dress is treated like a couture garment. This, combined with the honest advice, realistic expectations, and a calm expertise offered, sees the needs of every single bride constantly exceeded. In offering such an encompassing a friendly service to its clients, Ella’s Alterations has positioned itself as a real partner to betrothed couples, and this is something that Ella finds incredibly rewarding. “What makes me proud to is knowing that our work genuinely changes how people feel about themselves on one of the biggest days of their lives”, she explained. “Add in the honesty, craftsmanship, and heart we bring to every appointment, and it feels good to be part of something that actually matters to people.” A number of awards have followed on the back of this quality alterations service, and with the company having recently expanded its digital presence and fostered partnerships with new planners, photographers, and wedding venues across both Tampa Bay and Pasco County, the future is incredibly bright for this acclaimed studio. On the back of all this, we are privileged to recognise Ella’s Alterations with two comprehensive titles in the 2026 edition of our Global Wedding Awards. More on its services can be found at the link below. Contact: Ella Dixon Company: Ella’s Alterations Web Address: https://www.ellasalterations.com/ lla Dixon’s love affair with sewing began in the 1980s, and takes place against the backdrop of the rhythmic whirring of the Singer sewing machine. When her mother vacated her spot at the Singer, Ella was there and ready to take her place, having watched her mother sew and create since she was just eight years old. By the time she was only 13, Ella’s skills as a seamstress were already being sought out, and when the time came to pursue an education, she chose the only thing that she could see herself doing – fashion and tailoring. Some years later, Ella opened Ella’s Alterations, a bridal and formalwear alterations studio, in Zephyrhills, Florida. Working with brides, grooms, and other members of the wedding party, her studio serves the areas of Tampa Bay, Wesley Chapel, Lakeland, and Orlando. Ella’s studio specialises in altering wedding dresses so that they fit as if they were custom made, with the service she offers covering everything from hemming and bustle work through to reshaping corsets, lace detailing, and sleeve redesigns. “We also tailor suits, tuxedos, bridesmaid dresses, and mother of the bride gowns, ensuring that every person in the wedding party looks sharp and feels confident.” Across these services, the aim of Ella’s Alterations is simply to take the pressure off couples during wedding planning, which it achieves by giving them total peace of mind that the outfits of both them and their party will fit like a glove. As for how it can promise this, the studio embodies precision craftsmanship, honest, advice, and a stress-free experience. This is best seen across its Bridal Fit Perfection Process, the signature offering of Ella’s Alterations and the thing Ella prides herself on most across the studio. E Ella’s Alterations
12 | LUXlife Magazine ased in Paphos, which is one of Cyprus’ most popular cities thanks to its warm climate, healthy lifestyle, and rich history, Nicki Simpson is the trusted, professional wedding planner behind Intimate Weddings Cyprus. Specialising in delivering weddings that strike a balance between luxury and affordability, Nicki is the ideal wedding planner for those in search of attention to detail and someone who will treat their wedding like it is that of her best friend. Nicki is also approachable and always available for her clients. To ensure every wedding delivered under Intimate Weddings Cyprus’ banner is as personal and unforgettable as it free of stress, Nicki only offers one wedding per day, up to a maximum of three a week, even during the busiest times of the year. This allows her to remain focused on the needs of every couple, whether they are planning an extravagant wedding, an intimate celebration, or even to elope to Cyprus. “I offer less weddings than my competitors so that I can offer a more hands-on approach to my services where I get to know my customers personally.” In fact, as the name of her company suggests, it is in the planning of these smaller weddings where Nicki truly excels, and she even described the micro-wedding package she provides as being her signature service. Whether for just the couple or with their close family and friends along for the ride, Nicki has the perfect wedding package for everyone looking for a micro-wedding in Cyprus. Such a guarantee stems from the fact that she will simply create one based on their needs, including everything they need for the perfect day. Some of the venues available as part of this package include either Peyia or Geroskipou Municipality Gardens, Agios Georgios Beach, the Edro III Shipwreck, or Paphos Zoo. Of course, the venue is just the beginning, and included in the package is also all of the wedding license and registrar fees, an extra copy of the marriage certificate, the bride’s hair and makeBest Luxury Wedding Planning Service 2026 – Cyprus & LUXlife Client Satisfaction Excellence Award 2026 Offering a luxury wedding planning service without the luxury price tag, Intimate Weddings Cyprus is one of the most affordable wedding planners on the island, helping couples from all over the world to create the perfect wedding without breaking the bank. Nicki Simpson is the owner of Intimate Weddings Cyprus, and on the back of its recognition in this programme, we caught up with her for more on the encompassing service that she provides. up, a bridal bouquet with a matching flower for the groom’s buttonhole, a wedding car, and photographs both during the ceremony and afterwards. As a further example of Nicki’s holistic approach to all things related to tying the knot, she also covers the renewal of vows and blessings, offering a more symbolic ceremony that is unique to the couple and falls outside of the constraints of a traditional civil or religious ceremony. This could be the renewal of vows, or it could be a same-sex wedding or a non-legally binding ceremony. Again, Nicki will do everything in her power to see that the couple have their day, their way. Lastly, outside of comprehensive packages covering everything her clients need, Nicki also thrives on delivering those finishing touches to round off a perfect wedding, such as the wedding cake, the evening entertainment, and extras such as bespoke signs, photo booths, wedding favours, and more. The result for her couples is that they feel special, valued, and have a magical wedding day, which is ultimately what it is all about for Nicki. Commenting on the passion she has for both her business and her work, Nicki told us: “I absolutely love my business. It’s where I wake up every day and never feel like I am going to work. I’ve built a business to be proud of and a brand that is very well respected in the industry, not just by customers but also all the suppliers I work alongside to bring these beautiful weddings to life.” Recognised with two awards in this programme, the quality that both Nicki and Intimate Weddings Cyprus stand for in the wedding industry is reflected in the abundance of five-star reviews they continuously receive, including this one from Mr and Mrs Moss: “If you want the most intimate, personal, and classy wedding then that is absolutely what you will get. Nicki is the most amazing wedding planner but also a truly lovely lady who brings the most amazing energy and ensures every little detail has the attention it deserves.” More on the full range of services she offers can be found at the link below. Contact: Nicki Simpson Company: Intimate Weddings Cyprus Web Address: https://www.intimateweddingscyprus.com/ B
Global Wedding Awards 2026 | 13 Best Emerging Destination Wedding Matchmaking Platform 2026 – UK & LUXlife Wedding Booking Innovation & Excellence Award 2026 Imagine if you could find, compare, and book your perfect destination wedding venue in one go. This is exactly what WedAwai dedicates itself to with a platform that has quickly become a trusted name for couples who want a destination wedding without the usual uncertainty, helping them enjoy the lead‑up as much as the day itself, especially with all of their loved ones. As WedAwai is bestowed with its titles in the Global Wedding Awards 2026, Founder Martina Janda expresses how the platform is reshaping the way couples plan their memorable day. WedAwai’s contribution to this sector stems from a simple idea: to expertly plan not only a destination wedding but a pure adventure. This shouldn’t feel like a headache, yet for many couples, it often does. However, with more than a decade working in the UK wedding industry, and several years focusing on international celebrations, Founder Martina Janda set out to smooth the entire experience, offering guidance that feels personal, calm, and grounded in real expertise. WedAwai works with couples who are just beginning to explore the idea of a perfect wedding abroad. Some arrive with a specific country already in mind; others only know the feeling they want their wedding to have. Either way, the team takes time to understand the couple, their priorities, and the atmosphere they hope to create. “Sometimes they do know exactly where they want to go,” Martina says. “Other times, we help them discover it, Portugal, Malta, Cyprus… we’re adding new venues and new countries all the time.” Finding the right location is always the first step. Once the destination feels like a match, WedAwai sets about securing the venue, confirming the date, and bringing trusted planning teams and catering partners on WedAwai Ltd. board. Only when these essential elements are in place does WedAwai consider the perfect wedding abroad officially booked. From there, couples move seamlessly into the care of the platform’s overseas planners, who take charge of everything from photographer recommendations to flowers, décor, welcome dinners, transport, accommodation, and any extra celebrations woven into the trip. Behind the scenes, WedAwai has also built strong relationships with carefully chosen European venues and local suppliers. Many of these venues are family‑run or historic treasures that aren’t represented by sales teams, which means they often stay hidden from couples browsing the usual wedding platforms. WedAwai gives these locations the visibility and support they deserve, helping them shine while ensuring couples experience the authentic character of each destination wedding. Martina added: “It is exciting that couples don't waste time, money, and their sanity anymore. Perfect venues are selected for them and their budgets; couples, venues, and wedding planning teams gain clarity and know what to expect. Their guests are looked after too. This is a full booking infrastructure and ecosystem working in harmony. And a lot more new developments are in the pipeline.” Transparency is another key part of WedAwai’s approach. Pricing is clear, information is consistent, and only trusted suppliers make it into the fold. Couples know exactly what they’re getting, and who they’ll be working with, long before they step on the plane. It’s this honesty, paired with thoughtful service, that has led to a growing international client base and a stream of hugely positive testimonials from couples who often describe the experience as completely transformative. “This is a new way to work and book a destination wedding. We are not only supporting the couples but also developing the most valuable relationships within our destination wedding venues and providing uniformity, together with transparent pricing, unified information, and trusted suppliers.” Contact: Martina Janda Company: WedAwai Ltd. Web Address: www.wedawai.com Photography credit: Franklin Balzan Photography, Malta.
14 | LUXlife Magazine To Have and to Hold: Tips for Getting Your Makeup to Last Your Whole Wedding Day When it comes to your wedding, looking your best could be costing you a lot of money. In the UK, the average couple spends £811 on wedding hair and makeup alone. But not everyone wants to pay the price is costs – so how can you make your wedding makeup look professional and last all day without the price tag? Don’t skip the preparation Lasting memories are created at weddings, with photographs being a central part of the day. Everyone wants to look their best in front of the flash, whether it is a wedding venue in the Lake District, on a beach abroad, or in a busy city centre. But did you know the run-up is just as important as applying makeup on the big day? Preparation is key when it comes to making sure you look flawless, even under the flashing lights. Making sure you drink plenty of water can help flush out toxins from your skin and keep you looking supple and glowing without the need for makeup. Stacey Rothera, a hotel manager at Lake District Country Hotels, says: “Your wedding day is a busy one. Most couples will find it difficult to sit down, take a breather, and have a drink – and even when you do have a drink, it isn’t likely to be water. “Making sure you are well hydrated heading into your big day is crucial. This not only gives you a host of health benefits, letting you dance the night away, but it can also make your skin look flawless before the cameras – and who doesn’t want that stunning candid, or even plan did, photograph with their partner?” You can also spend some of your beautyassigned money on early preparation. Treatments such as instant teeth whitening, eyelash lifts, eyebrow laminations, and tints can all make you look and feel your best on the big day without needing too much preparation on the morning – giving you more time to focus on your loved one than on your lower lashes. Pick and practice Choosing the right makeup for you can also help have a long-lasting effect on the day. A wedding ceremony, and especially a reception, can be a hot and tiring event. From greeting guests to dancing you will be on your feet a lot. Making sure you have makeup you feel secure in can help keep your look fresh throughout the day without worrying about sweat. Starting with a good primer which makes your skin tacky enough to hold foundation and concealer is crucial, and finishing off with a good setting spray can help secure it all in place. Testing out different makeup routines before the big day can help you find the best practice for your skin. Not only can you perfect the right look for you, but you can also test out new products and how well they hold. Why not test your makeup out during your exercise routines to give it a rigorous testing – if it can last through that, you will be good to go for your wedding day! Beat away the shine One culprit for ruining your makeup could be rubbing it. If you have oil-prone skin or expect to sweat, you might be tempted to dab at your face. But even as a quick fix up with a napkin or toilet paper, you could be removing some of your makeup and leaving yourself with an uneven complexion. One way to resolve this is to invest in an oil absorbing stick. These are stone rollers which absorb the oil and sweat from your face without removing or disrupting your makeup. This helps leave you with a soft, matte complexion without smudging your contour. Another hack some couples are exploring is the anti-perspirant deodorant hack. This is where you take a roll-on stick deodorant and apply it to sweat-prone parts of your face, such as your upper lip and hairline! This will steer off some of the sweat during the day, letting you dance away without worry. However, make sure to try this out well in advance of your big day as you don’t want to be suffering an allergic reaction during the first kiss. Looking your best for your big day doesn’t have to take time and money. In fact, adding wedding makeup into your daily routine can help you prepare for the big day. Preparation can help you not only feel confident in your look, but also feel your best self with and without the makeup.
Global Wedding Awards 2026 | 15 Spring is here, and there’s no better season to say, ‘I do.’ Fresh mornings, bright skies, and nature in full bloom provide the perfect inspiration for wedding décor, flowers, and styling. Liz Taylor of Taylor Lynn Corporation shares her top tips for an unforgettable Spring wedding, from cakes to dresses, décor, colours, and catering. If you’re planning a wedding this season, this is your essential guide. The TLC Guide To Spring Weddings Even grooms and groomsmen are stepping up with pastel-hued shirts and stylish pops of colour. Be inspired by the red-carpet and own the moment! SPRING WEDDING DÉCOR Elegant backdrops – Natural sophisticated fabrics continue to dominate. Crisp linens, and velvet accents add texture and sophistication. Think dramatic draping in sensuous fabrics, cascading from ceilings or creating romantic backdrops. Overhead, hanging chandeliers and festoon lights create stunning feature lighting. Surprising colour – Colour isn’t just for flowers—tablescapes are coming alive with vibrant crockery, vintage-style glassware, and bold linens. Swap traditional white for jewel tones and patterns. Think painted farmhouse chairs in your wedding palette for a personalised, eye-catching touch. Upside down – Floral canopies continue to captivate, and spring weddings take them to the next level. Instead of traditional hanging wisteria, expect dynamic suspended bouquets of spring blooms. Singular hanging stems create a breathtaking floating garden effect. Inside out – Outdoor weddings remain a dominant trend, with tents, tipis, and stylish canopies seamlessly blending indoor elegance with the beauty of nature. SPRING WEDDING CATERING Seafood spotlight – Spring weddings demand fresh, light menus, and seafood is the go-to choice. Oyster bars, seafood kebabs, and paellasharing tables add a theatrical, interactive element. Pan-fried salmon with samphire provides a refined, seasonal main course. Floral flavours – Edible flowers elevate both food and drinks, bringing a fresh, botanical twist to salads, cocktails, and desserts. Signature cocktails infused with petals and herbs add a sensory experience guests won’t forget. Festival vibes – Outdoor festival-style catering is here to stay. Food trucks, live cooking stations, and mixologists preparing cocktails on demand create an electric, engaging atmosphere. Guests want an experience, not just a meal—so make it unforgettable. SPRING WEDDING FAVOURS Small but mighty – Spring wedding favours should be stylish, seasonal, and memorable. Miniature cocktails in jars, personalised chocolates, and bespoke scented candles allow guests to take a piece of your wedding home. Eco-conscious gifts – Sustainability is a priority, and couples are opting for meaningful, earth-friendly favours. Personalised seed packets, potted succulents, and herb-infused olive oil bottles offer a thoughtful, lasting reminder of your big day. Spring weddings are all about colour, creativity, and unforgettable experiences. This season, embrace bold choices, personalise every detail, and make your wedding a true reflection of your style. The trends are set— now it’s time to make them your own. www.tlc-ltd.co.uk X: @taylorlynncorp Instagram: @taylorlynncorp Facebook: @taylorlynncorporation 0161 876 6266 E [email protected] SPRING WEDDING CAKES Floral fancies – Spring wedding cakes are a statement, reflecting the vibrancy of the season. Pressed edible flowers on semi-naked cakes are replacing rigid sugar designs, creating an organic, elegant finish. Think croquembouche towers with cascading fruit-and-floral arrangements that look as incredible as they taste. Candy colours – Spring 2025 weddings embrace colour. Pastels, coral, powder blue, and soft pinks dominate wedding cakes, either as full-colour icing or in stunning ombré effects. Standout flavours – Ditch the predictable vanilla and chocolate—2025 wedding cakes are all about bold, unexpected flavours. Imagine Earl Greyinfused sponge, tangy passion fruit fillings, or rich pistachio buttercream. Sweet-savoury pairings like rosemary honey or salted caramel with dark chocolate add intrigue, while adventurous options like matcha, chai spice, or mango-lime deliver a fresh twist. SPRING WEDDING DRESSES The colour revolution – Brides are moving beyond white. Pastel wedding dresses are making a bold return, from soft pinks and blues to striking bold hues. Waisted – The 1920s-inspired, superflattering drop waist continues to dominate with bejewelled bodices and structured silhouettes. The halter neck, that’s one to watch. Flower power – Floral embellishments reflect the season’s natural beauty, with botanicalinspired additions to match your bouquet. COLOUR, CREATIVITY & UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS
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