Knotting Hills Most Breathtaking CountryWedding Venue 2022 – Missouri & LUXlife Hospitality Excellence Award 2022
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welcome to the 2022 Global Wedding Awards This year the global wedding industry is expecting the biggest surge in demand in nearly four decades, with betrothed couples around the world excited to begin married life after numerous delays and setbacks. As such, here at LUXlife we feel that now more than ever the enormous efforts of wedding businesses across the globe should be recognised and rewarded! We are therefore delighted to present the LUXlife 2022 Global Wedding Awards, launched in 2016 and now returning for the sixth consecutive year to join together the finest businesses across the wedding industry, from wedding planners and stunning venues to high-end caterers and bespoke stationers. With increased demand filling the diaries of many planners and venues right through to 2023 and beyond, it is with great pride that each year we recognise the fortitude and passion of suppliers and businesses as they strive to perfect this most joyous day in a couple’s lives. Sif Brookes - Senior Editor Website: www.lux-review.com 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.
5. Knotting Hills: Most Breathtaking Country Wedding Venue 2022 – Missouri & LUXlife Hospitality Excellence Award 2022 6. Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village: Most Intimate Wedding Venue - Central Arizona 8. Bula Music and Performing Arts: Best Hawaiian Wedding Entertainment Company 2022 10. Weddings by Angela: Most Organised Wedding Day Management Company - Cheshire 11. One Vision Photography: Most Client-Focused Wedding Photography & Videography Service - Wales 12. Casey Micallef Photography: Best Wedding Photographer 2022 (Mid North Coast): Casey Micallef 13. JS Events: Best Luxury Wedding Planners 2022 – Cheshire & LUXlife Customer Service Excellence Award 2022 14. Hurley House Hotel: Best Boutique Hotel & Wedding Venue 2022 – Berkshire & LUXlife Hospitality Excellence Award 2022 15. Love Lane London: Best Bridal Accessories Brand 2022 - UK 16. Little Lulu’s Cakes & Catering: Best Dessert Catering Company 2022 - San Diego 17. Meghan Blanton Photography: Most Inclusive Wedding Photographer 2022 (Colorado): Meghan Blanton & LUXlife Customer Service Excellence Award 2022 18. The Mobile Cigar Lounge: Most Unique Event Cigar Experience - Northeast USA 19. John McKay Jewellers: Best Wedding & Engagement Jewellers 2022 – Scotland & LUXlife Customer Service Excellence Award 2022 20. Pixelzshot Photography: Best Engagement Photoshoot Provider - Greater Los Angeles 21. Sandon Manor: Best Family-Run Wedding Venue - South East England 22. Indian Destination Wedding: Best Indian Destination Wedding Planners - North America 23. Sal Majik Events: Wedding Planner of the Year – Berkshire & LUXlife Customer Service Excellence Award 2022 24. Dunwood Hall Estate: Most Elegant Wedding Venue - Staffordshire 25. 5C Custom Creations, LLC: Best Wedding Floral Design Artist (Northeast Texas): Monica Coffman 26. Adept Imagery: Wedding Photographer of the Year (West Midlands): James Robinson 27. LUX* South Ari Atoll: Most Sustainable Wedding Resort - South Asia 28. Rememberies: Most Trusted Wedding Band & DJ Hire Business - UK 29. Alea Beauty: Best Bridal Hair & Make-Up Artist (Central Ohio): Carla Kowski 30. Josh Vassar Films LLC: Best Wedding Videographer 2022 (Alaska): Josh Vassar 31. Spark Wedding Events: Best Wedding DJ & Lighting Design Company - Tampa Bay Area 32. Brownie Photography & Production: Best Full-Day Wedding Photography / Videography Team - South-Central USA 33. Eclectic Elegance Events: Best Event Planning & Catering Business - Greater Denver 34. Sals Forever Flowers Ltd: Most Trusted Wedding Flower Preservation Specialists - UK 36. Hale Wailele: Best Luxury Wedding Venue - Hawaii 38. Marry Me Cyprus Ltd: Best Family-Owned Wedding Planning Service - Cyprus 39. Willoweddings: Best Wedding Coordinator (North Texas): Darion Johnson 40. Cobi & Coco: Wedding Cake Designer of the Year 2022: Cobi & Coco
www.lux-review.com Page 5 LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards Knotting Hills is a luxurious, opulent, and glorious wedding venue that has a deep passion for satisfying customers on their special day. Here we take a deeper look at the incredible work that it does from its very foundation and core. Its toptier services have left many happy couples feeling blessed and with many wonderful memories to last a lifetime. Knotting Hills Most Breathtaking Country Wedding Venue 2022 – Missouri & LUXlife Hospitality Excellence Award 2022 Mar22064 Welcoming all individuals, Knotting Hills is an easily accessible, stunning, and heartfelt venue that is always looking its best for the ecstatic couples who pass through on their journey together. Hosting single day events to multi-day events for clients, its core values of spreading the love and happiness come to life time and time again. Working on each event, Knotting Hills ensures the smoothest experience for every couple as they embark on a new adventure together. It has made it its mission to overcome any challenges or obstacles for its clients, so that they may have the best day they could imagine. Exceeding its clients expectations, Knotting Hills’ lavish features and bright finish reflected through modern décor allows for a contemporary twist on traditional weddings. Knotting Hills’ team has grown to feel like family. Its staff ranges across many different ages and its core values haven’t changed from its very beginning. Not only does it focus on togetherness, but it also focuses on all things intricate, magical, and filled with splendour. It team comes together regularly to discuss ways that they can expand and stay on top of its game – especially as the industry is so competitive. The team always has fun working together and this is truly reflected in the business and the couples that it hosts. Its team allows easy planning, beautiful experiences, and skilled execution of all projects. Covid-19 posed a lot of problems for the wedding industry – and lots of venues had to close temporarily. Knotting Hills has bounced back incredibly and is back to where it was – if not better. For the rest of the year, Knotting Hills is working on bouncing ideas between them so that they can continue creating the magical moments for its clients that wish nothing more than a memorable and heartfelt day together. Knotting Hills is a venue not to be missed! It has now won Most Breathtaking Country Wedding Venue 2022 – Missouri & LUXlife Hospitality Excellence Award 2022 from LUXlife – and we wish it all the best for the rest of 2022 and beyond. Contact: Katy Kleinbach Company: Knotting Hills Web Address: https://www.knottinghills.com/
Page 6 www.lux-review.com LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards Encompassed by sycamores, Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village has made its home on the banks of beautiful Oak Creek in Sedona. The internationally renowned Arts & Crafts Village offers a unique experience, transporting each visitor back in time. Indeed, a landmark since its formation in the 1970s, Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village has been fashioned based upon an authentic Mexican town. Boasting vine-wrapped stucco walls, cobblestone walkways, and magnificent arched entryways, the Arts & Crafts Village induces an atmosphere of romance – one that would be perfect for a dreamy, memorable wedding. From aromas flowing in from nearby restaurants to the vibrant floral life, Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village is a treat for all the senses. Fountains and church bells combine in order to create a relaxing orchestral tune. The unique architecture, under the hot Arizona sun, is near otherworldly. In essence, Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village is unlike anything else – and once you leave, you’ll always be anticipating your return. The venue’s story begins with Abe Miller, the founder. He regularly visited both Sedona and Mexico on holidays – and he fell in love. Back in the 1970s, Sedona was an incredibly rural area, with one standout, a nursery that was home to a distinctive sycamore grove on several acres of land owned by Harry and Ruby Girard. Miller, a real estate developer, was enchanted by the property. He had dreamed of building an arts village reflecting the charm and mood of Old Mexico, and after completing his travels, he knew that he’d found the right place. Inspired by the architecture of Old Mexico, Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village is certainly a different wedding location. Unlike the sleek halls and historical manor houses, Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village captures the essence of romance that can only be found in small, untouched towns. Mar22240 Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village Most Intimate Wedding Venue - Central Arizona Soon after, Abe began a courtship with the Girard’s to acquire the property. After two years of discussion, a healthy dose of quiet persuasion, and assurances to Harry that the sycamores would be taken care of, the Girards finally agreed. In collaboration with Bob McIntyre, a highly-skilled architect, Abe’s dream came to fruition. He called it Tlaquepaque after a colourful Mexican city on the outskirts of Guadalajara, meaning the “best of everything” in Nahuatl. The chapel is one of the most outstanding features in Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village. Unlike the rest of the lively location, the chapel is serene – a place for meditation and reflection. Additionally, it is home to an eye-catching twelve-foot painting of St. Augustine, Pope Pius X, St. Bonaventure, Samuel, Peter, and John the Baptist created by Eileen Conn. The Old Mexico inspired build is, of course, a place that inspires worship – it is also the host of the numerous weddings that Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village undertakes each year. Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village serves as the perfect setting for an intimate wedding. It is a magical place that acts as the canvas upon which couples can create their special day. There are four distinctive locations available – the aforementioned chapel, Calle Independencia, Patio de las Campañas, and the terrace at Patio del Norte. Therefore, whether the couple are planning for a large or small, indoor or outdoor wedding, Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village has something available for everyone. Further, to reduce the amount of stress that the couple will inevitably face whilst planning their wedding, the company offers two bespoke packages. For example, the Elopement
www.lux-review.com Page 7 LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards Package is tailored towards those searching for a small and elegant experience. Including one-hour pre-ceremony use of Bridal Suite, a 90-minute ceremony, a cake from the Sedona Sedona Bakery, bouquets and boutonnieres, the package features the impressive weddingpeal and a three-course dinner for up to four people. Or, simply, the couple can opt for the Ceremony-Only Package. Alternatively, Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village is willing to work alongside wedding planners in order to create the best possible wedding day. Its website features a diverse range of planners located in the Sedona area, each of which being affordable and highlypraised. This option allows the couple to freely choose the course of their day, down to the fine tuning of details, under the guidance of the area’s finest experts. Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village has garnered many positive reviews thanks to its high standard of service. The breath-taking venue, complimented by the attentive nature of the staff, has culminated in the village becoming a five-star venue. ‘Everything about this venue is beyond words. Tlaquepaque should be considered one of the nation’s top venues to hold a wedding. Its elegant & rustic beauty is breath-taking and comes even more alive at night,’ comment Aileen and Christopher, a couple married at the venue. Moreover, the prestigious wedding website, The Knot, showcases a rating of 4.9-stars for Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village. Across 18 reviews, the general consensus is clear - Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village is an exceptional wedding location. Contact: Wendy Lippman Company: Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping village Web Address: https://www.tlaq.com/
Page 8 www.lux-review.com LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards Authentic Hawaiian entertainment is hard to come by; however, Bula Music and Performing Arts is the real deal. The company was founded with the mission to ‘share our aloha and perpetuate Hawaiian culture through an authentic and iconic island experience,’ primarily for luxury wedding events. As such, over the past 11 years, Bula Music and Performing Arts has catered for over 1,000 couples across six continents, leaving each one with a positive experience. Bula Akamu specializes in the ’ukulele and guitar, heading the company as the lead musician, entertainment choreographer, and recruiting director. Yet he is perhaps best known for his warm, soulful voice, deep tones, and magical ability to engage with crowds, leaving them emotionally touched. The alum of the prestigious Berklee College of Music has been the recipient of numerous awards, including Wedding Wire’s Couple’s Choice Award, which he has received for nine years straight and The Knot’s Best of Weddings, for the last six years. He is also a prominent fixture within The Knot’s Hall of Fame. Their extensive reach, complimented by Bula’s devotion to customer service and quality, has resulted in Bula Music and Performing Arts becoming Hawaii’s top-rated wedding entertainment service, with hundreds of fivestar reviews under its wing. Growing up in the small sugar cane plantation town, Pahala, Bula didn’t have much – but what he did have was his treasured ’ukulele. What Pahala lacks in luxury and extravagance, it more than makes up for in spirit. It is the embodiment of aloha and care for ‘the ‘aina (land), kai (ocean), and its po’e The magic of Bula Akamu’s soulful voice is perfect for any special event – especially a wedding. Indeed, Bula Music and Performing Arts is a fullservice wedding entertainment company that supplies incredible music and awe-inspiring Hawaiian performances. Mar22247 Best Hawaiian Wedding Entertainment Company 2022 (people).’ This great sense of island culture, community, and love molded Bula into the man he is today, both personally and professionally. In essence, perpetuating such values is the core aim of Bula Music and Performing Arts. Their entertainment brings people together with rich traditions and heartfelt performances which pay tribute to ancient Polynesian history and the sacred spirit of Aloha. He and his wife, Ash, met in 2009 at a luau – two years later, they created Bula Music and Performing Arts. Ash acts as the company manager and entertainment coordinator. Within her roles, she primarily focuses upon correspondence, itinerary planning, song selection, and helping couples to plan even the finest details to ensure seamless wedding entertainment. The graduate of the University of
www.lux-review.com Page 9 LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards Wisconsin-Madison worked for ten years as a wedding and events manager at an oceanside resort prior to going full time with Bula Music, for which she won numerous coordinating awards. Together they have created a company that is not only successful, but also holds a great cultural impact. ‘Hawaii is a melting pot in itself with so many people originating from the outer Polynesian islands and various places around the world but everyone is tied together with the embodiment of Aloha,’ the couple explains. ‘Each member of our staff has a passion for performance and shares in our underlying belief of the importance of culture.’ Consequently, Bula Music and Performing Arts has attracted clients from around the globe. From Africa to North America, and Australia to Europe, Bula Music and Performing Arts boasts an impressively wide reach. It’s not uncommon for Bula to perform songs in various languages and research popular songs from their country to add into their DJ playlist. ‘The weddings which we service often include families from all over the world who come together to share in a couple’s love. Our main focus is to develop personal connections and genuine authenticity with each couple and their guests, showing them a good time and helping them to bond together in the spirit of love and aloha. Each place has their own traditions, languages, and values and we make an effort to learn about them and what is special to each’ they explain. Speaking of a couple that left a lasting impression on them, ‘We recently performed at a multicultural wedding where the bride gave her thank you toast to the guests in French, English, and Japanese. It was so touching and impressive to watch her relate to each guest and bring everyone together. We feel honored to not only share Hawaii’s culture with our clients but to gain knowledge of their cultures as well. It’s our Kuleana (responsibility) to honor the traditions of where they are from and to tie aloha into that.’ ‘My wife and I, along with our guests, were blown away by Bula’s infectious energy and good vibes! He was the highlight of our special day, playing tunes at our ceremony, and then coordinating a special night of hula dancing and song at our beachside reception! All our guests raved about the wonderful entertainment! Bula graduated from one of the top music conservatories in the nation and it showed in the high quality and placemaking musical set he delivered - the spirit / essence of Aloha and Hawaii really shone through! We also loved his all-white colored equipment and lighting set - which matches well with any wedding decor. His manager / wife Ash was also fantastic to work with and quick to respond to our emails! Would highly recommend Bula / Ash to any couple looking to get married on the Big Island. We planned our wedding virtually and Bula / Ash made the planning seamless. He wowed our guests and exceeded our expectations - we’re so glad to have Bula / Ash as part of our special day!” comment Mr Lester (and Qili) Kao in a fivestar Google Review. However, the company’s journey to success hasn’t always been smooth sailing. The Covid-19 pandemic had a monumental impact on Hawaii’s wedding industry – according to the State of Hawaii, Department of Health, the marriage rate saw a sharp decline in 2020 dropping from an average of 1671 weddings per month to 641. On top of this dramatic decline in amount of weddings, they were limited to 10 attendees and then 25 attendees for a majority of the pandemic. Along with guest count limitations, Hawaii’s strict restrictions were some of the most stringent in the country and, also included travel bans, mask mandates, testing requirements, and even bans on dancing. Subsequently, Bula Music and Performing Arts underwent a complete transformation during this period – ‘We shifted focus and spent much of the pandemic researching the latest wedding entertainment trends and the newest most innovative gear. We rebranded our look, updated our website, switched up all of our gear to “wedding white,” and invested in intelligent lighting and industry leading sound systems.’ It was also during this time that Bula honed his skills in DJing thanks to a range of new entertainment packages. Once the industry reopened, Bula Music and Performing Arts was able to take flight. The new entertainment packages and revamped style proved to be a success, and the company began to document behind the scenes footage for couples. Featured upon the Bula Music YouTube channel, which now sits at over 20,000 subscribers, the company also delved into creating cover songs of their top requests, and content for those looking for examples of what is available to them. ‘With our new services, we are able to able to provide a larger variety of options to fit the vision of each individual couple and are having so much fun partying the night away with them!’ Bula and Ash express. They then express their gratitude for the continued support of the business, the talented vendors they work alongside, the magnificent venues that they get to visit, the loving couples that they get to celebrate with, and the unique cultures they get to experience. Contact: Ash Lee Company: Bula Music and Performing Arts Web Address: www.bulamusic.com 1st Page Photography: Nomadic Creative Media, Stephen Ludwig Photography, Emily Lehnert Photography 2nd Page Photography: Nomadic Creative Media
Page 10 www.lux-review.com LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards The average wedding takes around 250 hours to plan. Lifestyles and long working hours can make it difficult and stressful for couples to find the time to plan their wedding. Planning your wedding should be both enjoyable and exciting! A wedding planner can assist with as much or as little as the couple needs. Angela will be there to guide the way whilst ensuring the client full control of their special day, styling her friendly, personal services to meet their individual needs and ideas. Angela’s full planning service involves sourcing, negotiating and managing the venue and suppliers to include site meetings, shortlisting and booking; assistance with invitations and RSVP tracking; producing a design/mood board; producing a wedding day plan and a realistic schedule; assistance with budget planning; wedding administration; assistance with the bridal party; and regular meetings and communications. The partial planning service normally starts 12 weeks prior to the wedding and oversees the final stages of the planning. Angela will complete the wedding day schedule and confirm all suppliers, as well as source and hire any additional suppliers if needed. She will be in attendance on the day of the wedding. Angela Faulkner is Weddings by Angela, a wedding planner based in the north west and covering the surrounding areas, being very happy to travel and go that extra mile. She works with couples to style and coordinate their special memorable wedding day, taking their ideas and making them a reality. Angela’s main services are full wedding planning, wedding day management, and partial planning, her mission being to make sure her clients have their dream wedding, planned to perfection. Mar22082 Weddings by Angela Most Organised Wedding Day Management Company - Cheshire The wedding day management service requires an initial consultation approximately six weeks before the wedding day. Angela will engage in venue coordination and liaising with suppliers to ensure no gaps on the day, and will provide a full schedule of the day. She will also provide full on the day coordination. Angela has also been an advisor for Smooch Wedding Rings by appointment since September 2019. Smooch Wedding Rings has grown steadily over the past decade to become the UK’s leading supplier of wedding and eternity rings. It has been trading in its current form since 2000, but the family have been in the jewellery business for over 40 years. Rings can be made in yellow or white gold, in 9 carat or 18 carat, platinum or palladium. All rings are tailored to individual customers, making them stunningly unique. Angela offers a very convenient service where customers can try on as many rings as they like in the comfort of their own home. Visitors can also meet Angela at various wedding fayres – Please get in touch with her to find out when and where they are taking place! With regards to the future of her business, Angela hopes to be busy with lots more couples getting married. She said, “I have very different weddings to work on at the moment, from venue weddings to tipi weddings. I want to combine my wedding ring business with my wedding planning business so that I can offer a bit of a niche within the industry.” Company: Weddings by Angela Contact: Angela Faulkner Email: [email protected] Website: www.weddingsbyangela.uk
www.lux-review.com Page 11 LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards One Vision Photography is a premium wedding photography and videography service. Described as ‘immaculately professional,’ the company has garnered a reputation for quality, consistently producing breath-taking snapshots infused with love. One Vision Photography Most Client-Focused Wedding Photography & Videography Service - Wales Mar22162 A wedding is a small fragment within many people’s lifetimes – a special yet fleeting day that has a major impact. Be it in a grand manor house or in a religious building, traditional or deviating from the norm, a wedding deserves to be captured, preserved through the art of photography. Henceforth, One Vision Photography, a company based in South Wales, endeavours to provide a photography and videography service that produces exquisite snapshots of those allimportant moments. Indeed, One Vision Photography is a multiaward-winning company. It understands that images speak volumes, that they encompass an abundance of memories and emotions, which is why One Vision Photography is the premium choice for a wedding photography service. Maintaining a diverse portfolio, the company has worked in numerous venues, including castles, halls, churches, and outdoor events. Yet despite the diversity and the challenges each venue may possess, One Vision Photography captures professional, high-quality, intimate images. In essence, these photos will be looked back on by its clients for years to come, inspiring feelings of awe, happiness, and most importantly, love. On the day of the wedding, One Vision Photography arrives promptly, aiming to be at the venue 30 minutes prior to the scheduled time. There are numerous safeguards in place that ensure that in an emergency, the wedding will still receive an outstanding service at no extra cost. Post-wedding, it takes approximately four to six weeks for the client to receive their digital gallery of photos, from which they will choose 100 to be printed in a wedding album. Of course, there are numerous options available to the couple, each being suitable for a range of budgets. The Wedding Photo & Video Gold and Luxury HD option, for example, costs £2,395 and includes a magnificent range of features. Serving as the company’s most expensive package, the clients will receive a free consultation and free engagement photoshoot. Two photographers and one videographer will attend the wedding, creating high-definition products. Moreover, this is the only package that includes the use of a drone; however, this can be added to the other options at an additional cost of £195 for two hours. None of this would be possible without One Vision Photography’s skilled team. The talented troop are devoted to providing an unbeatable service. Michael, the company’s founder and photographer, takes a candid approach, letting the day unfold, ‘untouched and unrehearsed.’ He neither forces poses nor pushes couples into repeating poses, instead, allowing for natural beauty and romance to infuse each photograph. It is imperative for One Vision Photography to capture the day in a manner that tells the story without the use of words and serves as a reminder of what should be one of the happiest days of its clients’ lives. It is clear that this approach works – the company has left numerous happy clients in its wake, who have since gone on to leave glowing reviews. Leighton Phillips testifies, ‘Five stars aren’t enough to do Michael justice. He was immaculately professional, really friendly and great with everyone (including the kids) and he captured the most amazing photos that we will always have to treasure and look back on. Couldn’t be happier. Thank you Michael!’ Additionally, Jason Rees comments, ‘Thank you One Vision for allowing us to replay the day over and over again with smiles on our faces each time.’ Therefore, it serves as no surprise that One Vision Photography has been awarded the title of Most Client-Focused Wedding Photography & Videography Service – Wales. It captures incredible photo and video content that are sure to provide memories and happiness for its clients. Contact: Michael Lundbeck Company: One Vision Photography Web Address: www.1visionphotography.com
Page 12 www.lux-review.com LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards ‘Capturing memories as they are made,’ Casey Micallef Photography is the business of eponymous sole trader Casey Micallef. Photography, at first, was not her calling; until her third child, Blake, was born, she had never really picked up a camera, especially not with the intent of pursuing any sort of professional photographical career. However, the birth of Blake changed her perspective. She realised in a kind of epiphany moment that she didn’t have the kind of record of the lives of her two other sons that she would have liked to have had, and so she sought to change this, picking up the camera and resolving to provide the service that she herself wishes she’d had years prior. In short, capturing life’s most precious moments so that they can be remembered in all their glory. From first words to first birthdays, family photoshoots, and photos that champion the idea of human connection, Casey quickly began to develop her style. Thus, it is her distinctive eye for human emotion, her ability to catch these as they happen, and her drive to immortalise these important moments of life and passion, that has made her such a cornerstone professional in Australia’s photography world. Upskilling, training, and educating herself in all manner of different Casey Micallef Photography, winner of the ‘LUXlife Customer Service Excellence Award’ for 2022, is an expert when it comes to capturing memories at their most beautiful. Able to work with clients to capture posed, candid, and all-round outstanding photographs of their most special days from weddings to family sessions and solo photoshoots, Casey’s expert eye and distinctive style sets her apart from her peers, making her a favourite amongst her market. Mar22097 Casey Micallef Photography Best Wedding Photographer 2022 (Mid North Coast): Casey Micallef styles and techniques, Casey worked from home whilst taking care of her children to find what would eventually become her calling, experimenting with film in order to add it to the variety of services that she offers. From there, her ambitions grew even further. After completing many shoots with families that showcase the connections there, and parents-baby shoots that champion familial bonding, Casey turned towards seeing what she could do for the hardworking parents who come to her studio and find it hard to shirk nerves or insecurities behind the camera. This resulted in her ‘Indulge’ photo sessions. Focused on giving women a true chance to indulge in making themselves look and feel good, Casey works to dress and pose them in a way that makes them feel truly confident and allows them to leave the studio with undeniable photographical evidence that they are a true pillar of strength. With testimonials and glowing reviews from all of her clients, she is truly proud of what she has been able to achieve over the years, and hopes to use these new awards to push herself to further success in the future. Company: Casey Micallef Photography Contact: Casey Micallef Website: https://www.caseymicallefphotography.com.au/
www.lux-review.com Page 13 LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards The pressure to create the perfect wedding has increased drastically since the introduction of social media – it must be ‘instagrammable,’ picture perfect in order to ensure that it becomes a highlight on people’s feeds. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. JS Events offers a tailored wedding planning service with options suitable for each budget, each venue, and, most importantly, each couple. JS Events Best Luxury Wedding Planners 2022 – Cheshire & LUXlife Customer Service Excellence Award 2022 Mar22392 The build-up to a wedding can be incredibly stressful – there’s much to think about. Is the dress perfect? What about the venue? The weather? How about dietary requirements? JS Events endeavours to take away this stress, leaving the happy couple to get to what’s truly important: enjoying their special day. Indeed, JS Events offers entirely bespoke events, with a specialisation in rustic, outdoor, and marquee weddings that are sure to be an Instagram hit. Led by Jenny Staniforth, an experienced event planner, JS Events benefits from over a decade of experience in the creation and delivery of weddings and major events. Based in the Peak District, Jenny has curated events across the United Kingdom, and has even traversed the globe in order to create the perfect event. Moreover, Jenny states that she is still, ‘head over heels in love with [her] job.’ She possesses a deep-rooted passion for solving problems – a trait that led her down this career path – and takes great pride in her work. From designing intimate garden ceremonies to sprawling country homes, and rustic churches to marquee extravaganzas, there is truly no one better than Jenny Staniforth to organise your special day. JS Events offers three unique packages – ensuring that there is something for every budget – that range from complete planning to acting as a support system throughout the final weeks before the wedding. For example, the company’s most popular package, Signature Planning, guarantees that comprehensive support and guidance is provided from the initial concept through to the day. Beginning at a cost of £4,000 for up to 100 guests, the package reaches £8,000 for over 200 guests. Of course, these prices are subject to change and extra expenses. The luxury package boasts a range of exclusive features, including guest management and accommodation along with rehearsal dinner planning. Consequently, this package also offers payment and budget management. In addition, the Signature Planning service handles venue and supplier sourcing, the creation of the wedding theme and style, and acts as the main point of contact for all suppliers. Henceforth, this package truly allows the couple to enjoy their special day as it entirely removes the burden of the planning process. No matter which package is chosen, JS Events works to create the best possible outcome through a wholly client-centric approach. This attitude is greatly reflected within the reviews of the company. Commenting on the service they received for their 2021 wedding, Jess and Mark Reilly testify, ‘Jenny ensured a stress-free wedding day for myself and Mark meaning we could completely relax and enjoy our day. This is so crucial when planning an at home wedding! She also recommended some brilliant suppliers when I was struggling to find the right people. I would highly recommend Jenny’s partial planning / on the day coordination package to any brides in a similar situation needing a go-to person to manage their day!’ Clearly, JS Events is the right choice for a seamless and memorable day. From exceptional customer-service to an enhanced knowledge surrounding the planning of bespoke events, JS Events sets itself apart from the industry standard. In essence, JS Events is the perfect choice for Best Luxury Wedding Planners 2022 – Cheshire and LUXlife Customer Service Excellence Award 2022. Contact: Jenny Staniforth Company: JS Events Web Address: https://jenniferstaniforthevents.co.uk/
Page 14 www.lux-review.com LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards Formerly known as the Red Lyon, Hurley House Hotel completed its extensive renovations in August 2016, once more opening its doors to guests. The choice to transform the site from a pub into a premium boutique hotel and restaurant primarily stemmed from the building’s location. Nestled in the heart of Berkshire, Hurley House Hotel provides a glimmer of luxury amongst the countryside. In essence, the objective was to create a must-visit venue thar fuses together all the elements of a contemporary venue with elegance and understated glamour. Henceforth, the hotel serves as one of Berkshire’s most sought-after venues for events and weddings. Located a short drive away from Maidenhead, Marlow, and Henley, Hurley House Hotel could not be any more efficiently placed – it is also within minutes’ reach of the M4, M40, Heathrow Airport, and less than an hour from Central London. Moreover, the hotel is home to a plethora of five-star amenities, including nine en-suite bedrooms, a stylish restaurant and bar, private dining rooms, and an adaptable garden pavilion for special events and weddings. After all, weddings are the hotel’s speciality. Hurley House Hotel truly understands how important a wedding is, in fact, it states that, A wedding should be special. At Hurley House Hotel, this statement is embodied in all that it does from the moment the client comes in for the initial consultation. Indeed, for a laidback yet luxurious day, Hurley House Hotel is simply the premium option. Mar22076 Hurley House Hotel Best Boutique Hotel & Wedding Venue 2022 – Berkshire & LUXlife Hospitality Excellence Award 2022 ‘The moments from your wedding will be some of the most treasured memories in your entire life, from walking down the aisle to your first dance.’ For up to 180 guests, the opulent location provides a stunning, unique, and intimate backdrop in order to create a wonderfully unforgettable affair. In addition, Hurley House Hotel is a fully licensed wedding venue that is equipped to host the main event, cater for the reception, serve a delightful wedding breakfast, and accommodate as many as 18 overnight guests. This service is, of course, entirely bespoke as the hotel hopes to make your day beyond magical. Whether you’re planning an extravagant party or an intimate dinner, Hurley House Hotel will ensure that its knowledgeable team remains with you throughout each step, guiding you through the entire process. For that day only, the house is exclusively yours, offering up a blank canvas in which you can detail your every want and need. Therefore, Hurley House Hotel promises that not only will everything go to plan, but also that it will exceed your expectations. Furthermore, the hotel boasts impressive technology, including a large video wall and cutting-edge lighting and sound systems. Complimented further by the overall service and the delicious catering, which is provided by some of the best caterers in the industry, Hurley House Hotel is simply the optimal location for your special day. Come rain or shine, summer or winter, the hotel has something in mind. For example, the outdoor terraces are the ideal setting for a light and airy spring or summer wedding, whereas the restaurant is perfect for those cold winter days. It should serve as no surprise that Hurley House Hotel has garnered much attention. Indeed, the hotel has acquired numerous awards for its services, ranging from being named the “Best Small and Exclusive Property “ in the UK and Ireland in 2019 and 2021, by Condé Nast Johansens, to the AA’s Gold Star Award - 2022 (5*). In 2021, Hurley House Hotel was awarded TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice, the Good Food Award for Gastro Pubs, and The MICHELIN Plate: Good Cooking award. Additionally, the company has won a place in the hearts of its clients, maintaining a wide range of positive testimonials and reviews. A testimonial dated October 2021 states, ‘We had the most perfect small wedding reception here, just with family as guests. Betty couldn’t have been more attentive & willing to help! Nothing was too much trouble. The food was outstanding & the service was top notch! We will definitely be returning to relive some very happy memories.’ Contact: Hurley House Events Company: Hurley House Hotel Web Address: https://hurleyhouse.co.uk/ Email: [email protected]
www.lux-review.com Page 15 LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards Love Lane London is a modern-day bridalwear and accessories brand based in London, founded by Gift Kenrick, a real-life bride whose love story began on Love Lane where she first met her now-husband, Paul. Love Lane London Best Bridal Accessories Brand 2022 - UK Mar22039 Husband-and-wife team, Gift and Paul, with their little Shih Tzu CEO (Canine Executive Officer), fulfil each bride’s needs with passion at a personal level. Gift is a dreamer and true romantic who knows from her own wedding planning the desire to create a wedding as unique as the bride herself. Having had two weddings, one in Thailand and one in the UK, she sought out how to make each occasion feel special for both her and her bridal party. Thus, came the idea of creating a line of accessories for brides-to-be which express their femininity and individuality and bring their own bridal stories to life. Speaking about what it’s like owning and working at Love Lane London, Gift shared, “As a husband-and-wife team, our internal culture can be summed up as… fun! We feel so lucky to be doing what we love with the person we love and meet so many wonderful brides who appreciate our work and values. When you’re as passionate as we are, every day is a new and exciting journey!” All about versatility and beautiful, wearable fabrics that truly make a style statement, Love Lane London’s dainty and feminine items are sustainably made in a small female-run production studio in London, with its customers being young, fashionable, eco-conscious brides-to-be. Making locally helps to reduce the company’s carbon footprint and producing in limited quantities ensures minimises waste. In addition to producing in an eco-friendly way, Love Lane London has sourced responsible packaging solutions in the form of compostable bags, reusable cotton pouches, and fully recyclable postal packaging. Love Lane London only launched last year, although its initial launch was planned for 2020. The delay was due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with its production partner’s studio being closed during the lockdowns. This significantly delayed production, so the launch had to be pushed back to summer 2021. However, there is a silver lining; local, ready-to-wear brands like London Lane London are now serving brides effectively, whereas the pandemic (and Brexit) have caused severe delays in dresses from overseas designers. Going small and local also means that the bride will receive much more attentive customer service than she would at big corporate brands. With many weddings now much smaller and more intimate, more brides are choosing modern and understated dresses instead of the traditional princess gowns. Choosing a more versatile design also allows brides to re-wear their wedding dresses for other special occasions, something that eco-conscious Love Lane London actively encourages, stating “it’s great way for brides to relive their wedding memories and be kind to the planet!”. The wedding industry has also become much more size inclusive over the past few years. Brides no longer feel the pressure to fit into their dresses, but now expect their dresses to fit them (and rightly so!). Love Lane London stocks sizes UK4-UK18 (accurate to high street sizing), and it can custom-make its dresses in any size with two months production time. Love Lane London is proud to work with other independent businesses, too, such as its production partner and photographers. It strives to support local businesses throughout its supply chain, keeping relationships friendly and fun. Gift said, “We love making friends in the industry. We believe there is no such thing as competition – only opportunities to collaborate and learn from each other!” Love Lane London’s future plans include adding a lot of exciting new products to its collection throughout the year. Right now, the company is working on men’s accessories to become a fully gender inclusive brand. It is also working with an independent embroider to help its customers make their wedding ensemble extra special with personalised embroidery of their initials or wedding dates with a turnaround time of just one week! Company: Love Lane London Instagram: @lovelanebridal Website: www.lovelanelondon.com
Page 16 www.lux-review.com LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards Throughout Natalia Bagai’s childhood, the kitchen was her church and Betty Crocker was her bible. Baking with her mother formed some of her fondest and most treasured memories that started this path to Lulus. Another ingredient to Little Lulus was the encouragement of her father. Natalia’s father, Vikram Bagai, came from a long line of successful entrepreneurs in India. He would tell her stories about Bagai Motor Service and Bagai Agricultural Estates. He would vividly tell her about her grandfather and how he was the CEO of cole & coke companies, in charge of tea estates, an amazing philanthropist and champion golfer. “Growing up I always knew that I wanted to go into business for myself and keep the Bagai name proud” she said and this where the recipe to her success began. Once she’d attended culinary school, Natalia continued to work in all departments of the food and beverage industry, addicted to the culture and learning more with each passing day. Natalia has always believed that if you love what you do, you’ll never have to work a day in your life – Although the days were long and a career within this industry can test your mental strength. After seven years of hard work, sacrifice and dedication, it was time for Natalia to focus that energy into the one thing she knew would make her happiest: starting her own business, Lulu’s Cakes & Catering in 2017. Creating the menu, she knew that she wanted to pull from her European pâtissier training she received while working at Soho House Los Angeles. She offers a modern twist on classic desserts while serving up the most decadent and elegant pastries, breads and custom cakes. Lulu’s is a private dessert catering company, which means everything is baked and assembled fresh to order. All desserts are proudly made from scratch using only the finest ingredients that you can truly taste, in every bite. Ever since she was a little girl, Natalia Bagai has had a deep love for baking, having spent many hours in the kitchen with her mother, Lulu over the years. And that is where the LLCC story begins… Mar22243 Little Lulu’s Cakes & Catering Best Dessert Catering Company 2022 - San Diego Her clients are the world to her and there is not much she won’t do to make someone’s event so special. “I tell my clients to think of me as their personal baker. I’m always so incredibly honoured to be a part of these monumental moments in someone’s life. It’s even more of a gift to be a part of continued events and watch families and lives grow. I’ve built amazing relationships with all my clients and it’s something I will always cherish.” One of Little Lulu’s CC’s customers shared their experience “Not only are you talented but also have the biggest heart! It was a pleasure working with you. Your professionalism and kindness is unmatched!” In her closing comments, Natalia comments on her journey and achievements, “I remember telling myself at 19 that I would become an entrepreneur by the age by 30, and I hit my goal at 28. The road was hard and there were absolutely moments I didn’t believe it was possible, however with consistency and passion I persevered. Although this is such an intimidating route, my parents never believed that it wasn’t achievable and so, I dedicate this company to them. I would not be the woman I am today with all their guidance and example of what it looks like to work hard and always give back. This love for kitchen grew as a little girl and the fact that I was able to turn it into my lively hood is still a dream I sometimes forget is reality. I hope to continue to make my late father proud of the Bagai name and share all future success of Lulus alongside my mother.” Ultimately, it’s easy to see what makes Little Lulu’s the Best Dessert Catering Company 2022 in San Diego, with the love, dedication, and attention to detail that goes into each dessert. Natalia strives to create pieces of art that exceed expectations, and they don’t only look divine, but they taste it, too. Company: Little Lulu’s Cakes & Catering Contact: Natalia Bagai Email: [email protected] Website: www.littleluluscc.com
www.lux-review.com Page 17 LUX 2022 Global Wedding Awards Meghan Blanton offers elopement and planning, wedding, engagement, and boudoir photography – and clients can expect to get more than just a photographer. She’s a hypeman; consultant; ninja; walking, talking Mary Poppins bag; but most of all, she’s a friend. Meghan’s love of photography was inherited from her father and her grandfather before him. As she grew older, she began to struggle with depression and anxiety, and short-term memory loss became an issue. Photography was a way for her to capture moments so she could look back and remember the day’s events as they truly were, rather than how they looked through her foggy brain. This is why it is so important to Meghan that when she photographs clients, she captures them as they truly are, saying, “You never Meghan Blanton is an LGBTQ+- and BIPOC-friendly elopement and intimate wedding photographer focused on crafting memorable experiences for her couples and environments where they feel safe to be their authentic selves. Meghan wants couples to feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgement, saying, “They should not have to hide who they are around me.” In light of Meghan Blanton Photography’s Global Wedding Awards 2022 success, we take a closer look at the photography experience she provides. Mar22122 Meghan Blanton Photography Most Inclusive Wedding Photographer 2022 (Colorado): Meghan Blanton & LUXlife Customer Service Excellence Award 2022 know when that photo is going to need to be their proof that a moment happened – their first married kiss, their baby’s laugh, the smile on their mother’s face, their haircut when they graduated college. These moments matter, and they should be captured authentically.” Meghan works with couples who believe in love, who believe in each other, and who believe in themselves. She loves working with couples who have a sense of adventure, and who want to celebrate their marriage in an intentional and intimate way. In recent years – especially as an affect of the pandemic – many couples have chosen to elope or have smaller, more intimate weddings, versus larger traditional weddings. For many photographers in the wedding industry, this was pretty terrifying, with events being cancelled left and right. However, when Meghan’s first couple decided to switch from a large wedding to an elopement, she fell in love. She said, “I loved how intimate it was. I loved how the couple really had the freedom to celebrate their love in a way that felt more meaningful to them, instead of catering to the demands of their guests. And the same is true of small weddings – even though they have more guests than an elopement, the smaller setting allows couples to spend more time with each guest and invite the people that mean the most to them.” With extensive project management experience, Meghan’s clients can count on clear, thorough communication and expectations. She works hard to make sure there are no questions left unanswered, planning out timelines, locations, and outfits – all included as part of each package. And admitting to being “the queen of awkward” herself, Meghan knows first-hand how uncomfortable it can feel to be in front of the camera, so she does her utmost to make clients feel cool, calm and confident when shooting. Whether it’s to make the client feel empowered during a boudoir shoot, or making sure their joy shows through their wedding portraits, they are in safe hands. One client commented, “Being photographed can feel awkward, but not with Meghan behind the camera.” Now focused on what 2022 holds for her photography business, Meghan plans to create more services for clients and improve existing services. This means more printing options, more planning options, higher quality resources, and more. Additionally, she believes that people are never done learning, so she is taking several courses this year to improve her photography skills, project management skills, and event planning skills so she can better serve her clients. Company: Meghan Blanton Photography Contact: Meghan Blanton Email: [email protected] Website: www.meghanblanton.com
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