Wedding Report from Lara Graham (nee Bush)

We are great thank you and our wedding was fantastic. Heather, who was looking after us that day, Frances’s husband and the photographer were really helpful and made us feel very special.

We loved that we had our own glass bottom boat for just me and Luke to take us to Turtle Island whilst our guests were on a bigger boat, even though I do not think I realised how wet our feet would get! I had to hitch my dress up to my bum and try to climb down the ladder of the boat to a water level which was past my shins (I am not the tallest of people so the water level was a lot higher on me than on everyone else), but the team on the boat were very helpful in aiding and guiding me down the ladder so that I didn’t fall. I am so very glad my dress wasn’t a big dress with a huge train otherwise it would have been a bit wet!

The ceremony was absolutely lovely and the vows were perfect for us as a couple. After a few photo’s we had some time to speak to our guests and chill out a bit. We had brought some champagne with us and some plastic glasses so that everyone could enjoy a drink. We obviously made sure we tidied all our rubbish so they wouldn’t cause damage to environment. Then there were more photos, and this gave us our opportunity to add our fun little touch to the day in which we brought out the personalised knotted hankies for the men to wear and the giant multicolour sun glasses for the ladies! Very English thing to do, especially with the knotted hankies but the photos are very funny and the photographer had a giggle whilst taking the pictures.

The sun soon began go down and the light fade so it was a chance for photos in the sunset. The guests began getting on their bigger boat and after the last photo was taken we were called over by Heather to a group of people standing together looking at the floor. We wandered over to see two baby turtles that had just hatched. It was an absolutely amazing sight and it must be a very good omen for myself and Luke. It actually tied in very nicely to the music we had playing when we walked down to start the ceremony, it was Muse’s version of Feeling Good with the lyrics “it’s a new dawn, it’s a new day, it’s a new life…” very fitting for us and the baby turtles I think! But unfortunately our guests did not get a chance to see the baby turtles, and we didn’t manage to get a photo of them, but we will always have that fabulous memory. It was a really lovely way to end our wedding day on Turtle Island.

All in all we had a magnificent holiday and wedding and I would highly recommend this to anyone. The whole day was stress free due to the planning and help from all those involved. It was really great not to worry about what had to happen next and if everyone was ok.

It feels so sad that it was over so quickly and back to England where it was so cold we immediately had to put the heating on! But a huge thanks to everyone for making the day more than we could have hoped.

Love Lara & Luke x
Married on Turtle Island on the 13th of September 2010

New York prices released

Prices for flights to the US until March 2012 now available with a £100.00 deposit per person, book by October 31st 2010 and recieve £100.00 discount per booking

call 01925 21 21 22

Weddings in the Czech Republic - day three

Prague trip 2010

8th of September 2010

Early the next morning following a quick breakfast we headed out on a small coach to Stirin a small village 1 hour from Prague

Chateau Stirin

Our first view of the Chateau was the Goudi Inspired restaurant. Not quite what we expected to see, its unusual décor is only for the adventurous that would like something that bit different for their wedding. Artis Restaurant can seat up to 100 for dinner in either a formal dinner or bbq.

For the less adventurous there is a very pretty atmospheric room on the lower ground called Sam's Hall with concave ceilings. There is also a charming Mediterranean style restaurant with lovely garden views that can host parties up to 60 people.

The chateau has a small chapel covered with deep coloured fresco’s and has a handsome altar, it can host a wedding for up to 60 people in either a religious or civil wedding ceremony.

This venue is perfect for those wanting a countryside wedding and reception amongst beautiful gardens and countryside, and this is a great venue for anyone wanting a quirky twist to surprise their guests.


Chateau Cervena Lhota






It was then back on the bus and onto Cervena Lhota a striking red chateau positioned on a picturesque lake.

The small chapel in the Chateau is decorated in shades of antique pinks and George V style furniture. The room can fit up to 80 people. This venue is available all year and I can imagine particularly lovely for summer weddings as you can make the most of the outdoor space and beautiful setting.

On the grounds is also a catholic wedding chapel accessed by a steep cobbled pathway, it is colourfully decoration with a deep blue ceiling adorned with gold stars.

Weddings can also be held outside on the grassy bank overlooking the chateau. A very pretty spot next to the lake for summer weddings.

Adjacent is a simply decorated restaurant which can host wedding dinners and receptions, you can also stay in the hotel across form the chateau which we would recommend if you marry here as you are over one hour from the centre of Prague so quite a journey in your wedding dress! A lovely weekend wedding idea perhaps.

State Chateau of Hluboka

Our last stop of the day was the State Chateau of Hluboka, a stunning fairytale style castle perfect for any princess bride. Inspired by Windsor Castle the Chateau can accommodate weddings on Fridays and Saturdays from April to September with the exception of May when the chateau is closed.

The simply decorated chapel can host religious or civil weddings and the grounds are simply breathtaking, you’ll most definitely feel like a princess here. The chateau is 1.45 minutes from the centre of Prague so you may want to host your reception in one of the local restaurants and stay in the area for the evening of the wedding.


Tomorrow we visit the medieval chateau of Zbiroh’s

Ruth (Diary of a Bride's) Wedding Report

Ruth and Jason Fox married at Vardioli Beach on the 29th of August 2010, Ruth has written a lovely report of her day and how she was feeling, i'm sure you will find this helpful when planning your wedding day!







We arrived on Thursday evening of 26th August 2010 at the Zante Star in Tsilivi. Poor Helen and Irene didn't know what had hit them I think. 23 people all excited about the events of the week ahead is enough to frighten anyone. We partied on until about 2am which probably wasn't the best idea as Jason and I had to meet with Francis in Tsilivi Travel at 10am.

We woke up to a good old fry up to soak up the beer and headed off to the wedding planners and to our joy it was literally a 10 minute walk from where we were staying. Francis went through what would be happening on the day, confirmed numbers and went through everything she thought we needed to know. I can actually say that I don't think she missed anything out, she was amazing. The time of the wedding was confirmed and we booked the videographer for the whole evening and Francis went through the "Storybook" photographs and the packages available and you will be pleased to know that we booked the whole lot, especially after seeing the pictures.
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The morning of the wedding and early afternoon was pretty horrific for me. I'd had no sleep since we had arrived as I was really nervous and anxious and also Jason snores like you wouldnt believe. The night before I had to listen to Jason, his son Jake and Jakes friend all snoring in unison. I climbed out of bed at 7am and found a bed at the side of the pool, covered myself in towels hoping to catch a few z'ds. Clearly this wasn't going to happen with the cleaners pottering around and then Jason checking on me. Needless to say I was in the worst mood I have probably ever been in. I put this mood down to nerves!! Anyway, I went back to bed at around 10.30am and managed a couple of hours. Jason came to see me and I burst in to tears, I was a wreck. I felt much better after a cuddle from my future husband.

We were getting married at 6pm so the plan was to start getting ready at around 2pm. The girls in the Zante Star decorated my room with flowers and banners and put a bottle of champage on ice for us, which I thought was a lovely gesture and just what was needed to relax us and get us in the party mood. And to hopefully cheer me up seeing as I was about to enter the most happiest day of my life. My Mum came up to see me and I managed to control my tears as did she. Good job really as I don't think I would have stopped.

My cousin Rachel was doing mine and the bridesmaids hair so while she did Helens, the chief bridesmaids hair, I dried mine. Then while Rachel curled Fayes, my little bridesmaids hair, Helen did my nails. It was only when Rachel began to do my hair that I actually started to calm down and enjoy the whole thing. My Dad came up to my room when everyone was leaving on the coach and him Helen and I had a little glass of champagne and a moment which I will never forget.... My Dad was speechless when I put my dress on. Helen said to my Dad "Doesn't she look lovely" and all he could say was "Beautiful". How I didn't cry then I'll never know.

We made our way down the stairs (after my friend Kenny asking the owners to clean the dog poo off them). I was so embarrassed walking in to reception and waiting for Francis to arrive in the car. Eventually we were on our way and the journey is a complete blur. All I know is that I think I waffled all the way there.

We pulled up at the venue and Helen joined the other bridesmaids. Lukas the photographer and Michelle were immediatley snapping away with their cameras as I was getting out of the car. A few more pictures and then the entrance music started. My legs were like jelly but they were heading in the right direction so I suppose that was something to be thankful for. As I approached Jay, I felt tears piercing my eyes, I fought it but couldn't stop them rolling down my face. The music stopped and the registrar began the ceremony with Francis translating in English. It was literally over in minutes but those words still remain "I give this ring as a token of our everlasting love". It was short and sweet but to the point and the words were perfect. I wouldn't have wanted it any other way!!

Once all of the pictures had been taken Jason and I and our party of 47 sat down to a BBQ meal which I must say was delicious!! Typical greek style souvlaki and burgers. I don't think I heard anyone speak for about half an hour while we all tucked in to our food.

Then the speeches which I have to be honest and say I can hardly remember what was said other than my Dad kept telling me to shut up when I was trying to correct him. Jason hadn't prepared a speech so managed to come up with a few words and then handed out the presents to the best men and the bridesmaids. One of the best men, Mick, read out some of the cards and managed to bring out a few more tears only this time they weren't mine. My Mum and friend Monica had written the nicest messages I have ever heard.

Then the party started.........

About 9.30ish they played our first dance and towards the end the fireworks went off. Such a fabulous way to end our first dance and everyone sat in looking in to the sky at the beautiful colours.

As we partied through the evening, we had a few surprises. First one was one of my friends, Kenny, coming from behind the screen dressed as a woman while all the ladies were lined up for the videographers. Then my bridesmaid Helen and one of my friends, Rachael, decided they wanted to go skinny dipping in the sea. The owner of Vardioli, Spiros, thought it was such good fun that he joined in. When the girls got out of the water and got dressed he decided to pick them up and run back in to the sea with both of them. Luckily enough the bridesmaid dress wasn't ruined or he would be getting a bill!! LOL Needless to say, the male side of the party were happy to see 2 young women running around with no clothes on.

Then the night came to an end and I was gutted that it was all over. At least I have my memories and photographs of the day.........

All that remains for me to say is a huge "THANK YOU"! It was the most memorable time of my life and this wouldn't have been possible without Lisa and Francis for sorting everything out for me. You will both remain in my thoughts forever and I thank you both from the bottom of my heart for giving me the wedding I have dreamt of since I was a little girl. Everything, and I mean everything was perfect and went without a hitch. Absolutly no complaints from anyone, the whole party enjoyed every single second.

I can guarantee, anyone reading this and contemplating getting married abroad..... DO IT! You won't regret it, I promise. You will have the time of your life xxxxx

Nicola and Pauls Balcony Wedding, Zakynthos

Hello lisa
Just to say the wedding was perfect. The balcony itself was windy ha ha but amazing. The staff were great we will reccommend you to anybody. Thanks for all your time and effort, the pictures we had done by the photographer have turned out great as well.
Thanks again lisa.
Paul and Nicola Craven

Married at the Balcony in Zakynthos on the 2nd of September

Testimonial for Overseas Experience

Jo, I just want to say thank you so much for all your hard work and ongoing hard work organising my wedding in Santorini along with my long winded honeymoon. There is nothing you haven't been able to cater for when I have asked, and have managed to deal with a whole array of wedding guests with different requests from my parents to my friends. You have made this whole part of the organising a breeze for me and I don't think I say thank you enough, so THANK YOU!

You are an absolute god send and I don't know how I would have dealt with this without you.

Also, and extra thank you for organising extra trips for my family and friends, I am afraid you will be bombarded from now on as I have recommended you!

Kind regards

Madeleine Ker

Overseas Experience is helping Madeleine arrange her accommodation for her wedding in Santorini in 2011

Zante Weddings Special offer - Free Horse and Carriage

Zaknythos Special Offer - Free Horse and Carriage for the brides arrival for all weddings booked for July 2011 until the end of October.
Contact us for more details

Chris and Michelle's Beautiful Wedding Day

Congratulations to Chris and Michelle who married at Terrazzo Beach in Zakynthos on the 9th of September

Best Wishes to you both

Simon and Denise's beautiful Cameo Island Wedding

Weddings in the Czech Republic - day two

Prague trip 2010

7th of September 2010

After a comfortable nights rest I decided to explore more of the hotel, the view from my room was beautiful and the weather looked promising so I headed outside to take photos before the hotel got too busy.

Following a lovely breakfast in the Monastery restaurant we headed to the foyer to meet our guides for the trip, Yana from the Czech office, Sylvie from the UK office and Olga our tour guide.

A short presentation about weddings followed where we learnt about the legalities of weddings in Prague and about the traditions of Czech weddings that couples like to add to their destination wedding and some of the most popular wedding and reception venues.

The Augustine

Outdoor seating area at Augustine Hotel

Katarina from the Augustine Hotel then gave us a tour of the hotel. This is one of the newest additions to the Rocco Forte Hotel chain and certainly lives up to its good reputation. Each detail in the five year restoration has been carefully considered, even the room colour schemes of green and deep pink, or orange and grey reflect the clothing of the ancient monks.

We visited two luxury suites, one which was recently used by Pink during her world tour when she stayed in the city.

The Tower suite at 3700euros per night was our next stop, the extravagant suite is for those that want complete luxury in elegant surroundings, this suite has been voted one of the best in the hotel. Its magnificent spiral staircase leads up 2 floors to a 3rd floor bedroom with panoramic views of the city, simply breathtaking!

The Augustine has a pretty outdoor sheltered terrace complete with waterfall where you can enjoy a drinks reception following your wedding and the impressive ballroom can accommodate celebration diners for up to 120 people.

Tom's bar

Next to the outdoor terrace is Tom’s bar, voted one of the most handsome bars in the world. Angels adorn the ceiling in pretty antique pink frescos’ the bar has a self named signature cocktail which must be sampled on a visit here.

A pretty corridor from Tom’s bar leads to a sheltered courtyard which wouldn’t be out of place in Italy. The tree dotted garden is wonderful for civil ceremonies, especially in the afternoon when the sun moves above the terrace and provides a pretty speckled light. The garden is home to the second oldest well in Prague and the water is still used to brew the hotels famous St Thomas beer.


The Courtyard with the second oldest well in Prague

Beautiful St Thomas Church

Continuing around the hotel you’ll find St Thomas’ church which is simply magnificent with generous decoration and beautiful stain glass windows and finished with a grand organ which overlooks the church from a balcony. St Thomas is a Catholic church.
Lesser town
After touring St Augustine we left to discover Lesser town, dominated by the blue dome of St Nicholas’ church in the towns square which is used these days mainly for concerts, the dome is a good base to navigate around the town as it can be seen from almost everywhere.

Lesser Towns architecture is a mish mash of all styles from Georgian to Gothic. The town is a real delight to walk around, every where you look there is something to see that is either unusual, quirky or quite beautiful.

Prague Castle sits high on the skyline and is rather dominating due its size, in the centre is the Cathedral of St Charles a gothic style building that took over 700 years to complete. A must see are the beautiful stain glass windows inside, each one by a different designer and tells a different story in a wonderful array of colours, the effect is stunning.

Aria Hotel

View from the Bridal Suite to the Vrtbovska Gardens

After our tour of the castle we headed back to Lesser town and the Aria Hotel which backs onto the Vrtbovska gardens a popular location for weddings photos and drinks receptions.

The Aria is a music themed hotel, each floor named after a popular music type from Classical to Rock and pop, the hotel even has its own music library and cinema room which can be used by hotel guests. One of its best features is the outdoor terrace which can be used for drinks receptions or for seated dinners up to 20 people, the terrace has some of the best views of Prague Castle.

We were treated to a delicious traditional Czech wedding dinner at the Code restaurant of the Aria hotel, I had
• Crunchy Little Gem Salad with Yellow Fin Tuna Tataki with Wasabi Dressing and Radish
• Crispy oven roasted Vodnany Duck Led with Organic Sauerkraut, Steamed Red Cabbage and South – Bohemian Row Potatoe Dumplings
• Small Wedding cake with Fresh Raspberries and Cram Chantilly

All enjoyed while listening to the lovely sounds of the piano played in the foyer.

Vrtbovska gardens

Vrtbovska gardens

After dinner we went onto to the Vrtbovska gardens which can also host civil or religious weddings in the sheltered ceremony area at the bottom of the garden. Small but beautiful the gardens are a wonderful setting for a pretty wedding and reception which is now possible after 6pm when the gardens are closed to the public.

We then made our way over the famous Charles bridge adorned with a wonderful selection of baroque statues. I made sure I touched the statue of St. John of Nepomuk which is supposed to make your wish come true.

The bridge is scattered with local traders selling everything from photographs of Prague to artists and jewellery makers.


Our boat

Our next treat was a boat ride on the Valta river stopping at a small bar situated under a bridge. Due to the size of our boat we were able to get in the smaller entrances of Prague’s waterways, a great way to enjoy the city and its architecture from the water and a completely different perspective. A lot of couples do this as a treat for their guests following the ceremony for drinks before dinner.

The guides dress in traditional sailor men’s clothing and are incredibly knowledgeable about the city and its history, their enthusiasm is contagious.

After our cruise we headed back to our hotel for a quick change and a meal in the Monastery restaurant, the outside terrace has a wonderful atmosphere at night and due to its sheltered position is used for dinner’s right up to the end of October.

On Day 3 we head into the countryside, come back next week to read about it.

Fed up with the weather?

Here are a few ideas to tempt you!


Majestic Hotel & Spa *****
Barcelona (Spain)
£294 pp for 3 nights
Double/Twin Room
October 2010
Bed & Breakfast

Art Deco Imperial Hotel *****
Prague (Czech Republic)
£258 pp for 3 nights
Double/Twin Room
October 2010
Bed & Breakfast




Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest (Hungary) *****
£185 pp for 3 nights
Double/Twin Room
October 2010
Bed & Breakfast



Go on treat yourself, call )1925 21 21 22

Zante Weddings Special offer

Special offer - book your 2012 Zakynthos wedding before the end of October 2010 and recieved 2010 prices! a saving of up to 10%!

Wedding Abroad Top Tips

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/ the leading online information website for women asked us to write an article on top tips for a wedding abroad, you can read the full article here, you may find some useful hints here

http://www.ivillage.co.uk/relationships/marriage/dispute/articles/0,,157_718731-1,00.html

Happy Planning

Lisa
xoxo

Beautiful Conservatory Gardens Wedding

Sabina and James Fox married on the 18th of August 2010 in a beautiful Central Park Wedding ceremony.

New Handpicked Honeymoon Website!

We’re very excited to launch Handpicked Honeymoons. In collaboration with Overseas Experience we’ve carefully selected hotels that we feel will suit our clients when choosing their honeymoon, please take a look and let us know what you think.

http://www.thebridalconsultant.co.uk/handpicked-weddings-honeymoons/handpicked-honeymoons.htm

Coming Soon Handpicked Weddings!

Another beautiful wedding by our wedding partner The Bridal Consultant

Hi Lisa,

thank you very much for organising such a great day for us, everything was perfect. we have seen the photos and as you said we absolutely love them.

Thanks again

Carl and Rebecca Green, married on the 20th of August 2010 at the Cop Cot, Central Park

Wendy G Photography