Congratulations David and Tara! A Magical Evening at Rufford Mill…

‘You surpassed all expectations and thank you for making it so special for my mum Marion as well’

David and Tara, Rufford Mill, 7th June 2025

Close-up magic during evening reception. Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

I was delighted when the lovely Tara and David asked me to perform close-up magic during their evening wedding reception at the fantastic Rufford Mill. This is always a wonderful time for some ‘mix-and-mingle’ prestidigitation – when bride, groom and guests are relaxing after the wedding breakfast.

‘It was a lovely, complete surprise, your magic is amazing’ Marion (Tara’s Mum) Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

The evening would be even more special as Tara’s Mum Marion is a big fan of magic, and has recently celebrated a very important birthday. The newlyweds had managed to keep my presence a secret, so it was a tremendous privilege to provide entertainment for the VIP guest!

It’s always a pleasure to entertain on wedding days! Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

The exceptional Rachael Phillips Photography were present throughout the evening reception, and I am very thankful that Rachael has shared these tremendous images to display in this article. Do you require a first class photographer for your wedding or special event? Find out more about Rachael and her magnificent service at: Rachael Phillips Photography.

Entertaining Tara, David and close family and friends. Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

One of the benefits of entertaining during the early evening reception is that I normally have an excellent opportunity to amaze the newlyweds. It was wonderful to provide both close-up sleight-of-hand and larger parlour illusions for Tara, David and close family and friends in the charming function suites of Rufford Mill.

It’s a privilege to create magical memories! Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

Tara and David’s family and friends were a wonderful group to enthral with a variety of intriguing magical routines and illusions. Indeed, the delightful halls and rustic environs of Rufford Mill always provide the perfect backdrop for plenty of magical amazement on a wedding day! Awarded ‘Best Historic Wedding Venue’ in the 2025 Guides for Brides Customer Service Awards, find out more about this lovely locale at: Rufford Mill Venue.

A parlour show of magic for Tara and David. Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

Many of Tara and David’s friends had a natural fascination with magic, and it was a pleasure to have the opportunity to perform mysterious mind-reading and prediction effects later in the evening. This branch of the magical art is known as Mentalism, and one of its most famous modern day practitioners is Derren Brown.

Some intimate psychological effects later in the evening. Photograph courtesy of Rachael Phillips Photography.

It truly was a wonderful evening at Rufford Mill celebrating the wedding of David and Tara. Congratulations and best wishes again to the newlyweds, happy birthday Marion, and thank you to Rachael Phillips Photography, and Seana, Carmel and the staff of Rufford Mill.

Rufford Mill. Artwork by David Fox. David creates his own artwork and it often appears within his magic shows!

Rachael Phillips Photography are based in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire.

Website: Rachael Phillips Photography

Telephone Number: 07779 127050

Rufford Mill is an award-winning wedding and events venue based in north Nottinghamshire.

Website: Rufford Mill

Telephone Number: 01623 888525

David Fox is a professional magician based in Nottingham who travels throughout the UK and beyond.

Website: David Fox Magic

Telephone Number: 07946 686258

Congratulations Hannah and Ed!

‘…our guests were in absolute awe of his magic. Everyone thought David was brilliant and mesmerising…’ Hannah and Ed, Gradbatch Mill, Buxton, July 2024

It was a tremendous pleasure and a privilege to be part of Hannah and Ed’s wedding day at the fantastic Gradbatch Mill, Buxton in July 2024. Indeed, I was delighted when the lovely couple asked me to perform magic during the early evening reception. It truly was a magical day at an exceptional location in the heart of the enchanting Peak District.

Close up magic for Hannah and Ed’s lovely guests.

It was wonderful to freely mix with the lovely couple’s family and friends, performing close-up magic. Magical card routines, mind-reading effects and classic illusions were the order of the day, and Hannah and Ed’s guests were truly a joy to entertain. This period of the wedding reception is fantastic as I can also provide some special routines of prestidigitation for the newly-weds.

Magic for Hannah and her lovely friends and family!

Magic is a tremendous medium to bring guests of all generations and backgrounds together on a wedding day. I always enjoy performing at weddings because there is so much positive energy; and everyone appreciates the opportunity to be amazed by mysterious illusions, predictions and mystifying mind-reading routines.

I always relish the opportunity to amaze everyone on a wedding day!

Gradbatch Mill is a unique venue which is ideal for weddings, special events and corporate functions. The Mill and the Farmhouse can provide exceptional accommodation facilities, and the serene setting is perfect for outdoor events in the summertime. Find out more about Gradbatch Mill at: Gradbath Mill

David creates his own unique effects and illusions.

David Fox is a professional entertainer, artist and free-lance writer based in the Midlands, UK. He performs magic at weddings, parties, product launches, charity events and corporate functions. Find out more about him and the award winning service he provides at: David Fox Magic.

Telephone number: 07946 686 258

Email address: email@magician-midlands.co.uk

Congratulations Hannah and Ed!

Congratulations Molly and Will

‘Everyone absolutely loved watching you perform’

Molly and Will, Bentley Brook Inn, Ashbourne, July 2023

Entertaining the lovely Molly, Will and their fantastic guests at the exceptional Bentley Brook Inn. Photograph courtesy of Paul Walker Photography

It was a tremendous privilege to entertain everyone on Molly and Will’s wedding day at the fantastic Bentley Brook Inn, Ashbourne, Derbyshire. Guests had travelled from far and wide to be there, and I thoroughly enjoyed providing close-up magic and table magic during both drinks reception and the early evening celebrations.

Fun and laughter during drinks reception. Photograph courtesy of Paul Walker Photography

Card trickery, sleight-of-hand, mind-reading and captivating illusions always go down very well when the guests are enjoying a drink immediately after the ceremony. Some of Molly and Will’s guests had travelled all the way from Belgium to share this very special day, so it was great to perform a little magic speaking French too!

Entertaining the guests in the fabulous Dovedale Suite of the Bentley Brook Inn. Photograph courtesy of Paul Walker Photography

It was a pleasure to help kick off the evening revelries with some table-side entertainment. The period from the end of the wedding breakfast until the first dance is a fine time to amaze both day guests and evening arrivals with illusions and interactive magic effects. It’s always great to be able to include all generations on a wedding day too: from grandchildren to grandparents.

David Fox always enjoys entertaining everyone on a wedding day! Photograph courtesy of Paul Walker Photography

As always, it truly was a magical day at the Bentley Brook Inn. Congratulations again to the lovely couple Molly and Will! And thank you for investing your trust in me for your wedding day celebrations.

The Bentley Brook Inn is perfect for wedding receptions and for anyone planning a visit to the beautiful Peak District.

Find out more about this exceptional venue which is located close to Ashbourne: Bentley Brook Inn

Photographs are courtesy of the superb Paul Walker Photography. Many thanks to the lovely couple for kindly sharing these images of the day: Paul Walker Photography

David Fox is a professional magician based in the Midlands, UK who travels all over the world entertaining audiences with his unique brand of magic. Find out more about him at: David Fox Magic Wedding Magician Telephone number: 07946 686 258

Congratulations Trevor and Sue!

‘it was a fantastic day, thank you again for helping us celebrate’

Trevor and Sue, Eastwood Hall, 23rd June 2023

Some outdoor magic for Trevor and Sue’s guests

It was a tremendous privilege to be part of Trevor and Sue’s wedding day celebrations at the fantastic Eastwood Hall recently. I have been very fortunate to have entertained guests at this lovely venue many times over the years, and it is always great to return.

It’s always great to entertain family and friends on wedding days

I was delighted when Trevor and Sue asked me to provide close-up magic during the drinks reception and table magic throughout the wedding breakfast. This is a superb period to entertain all of the guests, and magic really helps to liven things up and bring everyone together before the evening revelries begin.

Classic table-side illusions for Trevor and Sue’s guests

It truly was a very magical day at Eastwood Hall, and thank you again to the lovely Trevor and Sue for investing your trust in me. The newlyweds’ family and friends were a real pleasure to mingle with and entertain.

Congratulations again to Trevor and Sue!

Eastwood Hall is a fantastic four star venue located in Nottinghamshire. Ideal for weddings, corporate events and parties. Find out more at: www.eastwood-hall.co.uk

David Fox is a professional magician who is based in the East Midlands. Find out more about him at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk

Congratulations Annie and Dean!

‘It was a massive privilege for us to have you share the day! Dean wouldn’t have had anyone else.’

Annie and Dean, The Sitwell Arms Hotel, Renishaw. 21st May 2022

It was truly fantastic to entertain Annie, Dean and all their friends and family at the Sitwell Arms in May this year. I was very fortunate to meet the lovely couple at Nick and Beth’s wedding at Stubton Hall in 2019, and I was very flattered that they decided to call upon my services for their own special day.

Annie and Dean requested that I entertain everyone during their early evening reception. The period from the end of the wedding breakfast until the first dance is perfect for a close-up magician to circulate freely with the guests.

It was a pleasure to perform card magic, sleight-of-hand, classic illusions and mind-reading routines for all age groups. Annie and Dean’s friends and family were a joy to mix with, and it was fantastic to receive such a tremendous reaction.

We were blessed with excellent weather on the wedding day, so I was able to mingle freely with the guests in the garden area and terrace to the rear of this superb wedding venue.

The outstanding Bailey Lonsdale Photography were Annie and Dean’s chosen lensmen for the day, and it was a pleasure to work alongside these consummate professionals. The wonderful photographs in this blog article highlight how they can expertly capture all those very special moments on a wedding day perfectly. Many thanks to Annie and Dean for kindly sharing these images, and you can find out more about Bailey Lonsdale Photography at: www.baileylonsdale.com

It was a wonderful day at the Sitwell Arms, and thank you again to Annie and Dean for inviting me to be part of such a special occasion. Congratulations again to the lovely couple!

David Fox is a professional magician based in the UK who is available for weddings and special events around the world. Find out more about him at: David Fox Magic

Happy Birthday Rachel!

I was delighted and very flattered when Jamie and Rachel asked me to perform magic at a very important birthday bash in Nottingham recently! The venue was the fantastic Botti Di Mamma in Hockley and it definitely was a memorable and magical occasion.

Rachel’s family and close-friends were not only treated to the exquisite ambience and exceptional cuisine of this first class venue, but the talents of Nottingham musical quartet The Money ensured it truly was a fantastic evening. Jamie has known the band for many years and was delighted that they could be part of such an important event. They are always a massive hit wherever they perform!

It was a privilege to mingle with such a warm and receptive group of people, and I was also delighted to perform a little customised magic for both Rachel and her father Brian. Indeed, it was very kind of Jamie and Rachel to invest their trust in me for such a big night, and I always hope that I can repay this in my performance.

A very important occasion calls for a very talented cameraman, and Will Slater was present in order to expertly capture the proceedings. As you can appreciate from the photographs proudly displayed in this article, Will’s timing, sixth-sense and attention to detail is immaculate.

Overall, the party was a resounding success and friends and family partied well into the small hours! Happy birthday Rachel! And well done to everyone for helping to create such a tremendous occasion – I hope that you and Jamie had a great time in the USA.

Seeking a unique Nottingham cafe, restaurant or venue? Visit Botti Di Mamma at: 15 Broad Street, Nottingham, NG1 3AJ. Telephone: 0115 924 1112.

For exceptional music at your next event, contact: http://www.showmethemoneymusic.com/

Do you require a top quality Midlands photographer? Visit Will Slater’s website now at: https://www.willslater.net/

The author of the article is David Fox, a professional entertainer based in the Midlands. Website: David Fox Magic Phone Number: 07946686258

Magic at the Sheffield Hilton

Hilton Table Best — Magic at the Sheffield Hilton Hotel – Photograph Courtesy of Alex Kentfield

Well done to Jessica, Nicole and Vicky of JNV events for hosting such a fantastic occasion at Sheffield Hilton Hotel last month! It was a massive privilege to be part of this very special Charlie and the Chocolate Factory themed evening – and over one thousand pounds was raised for the Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity!

Hilton Show — It was a pleasure to perform a show for everyone present as well as close-up effects! Photograph courtesy of Alex Kentfield

The team at JNV ensured that everyone had a magical night to remember at this stunning venue in the heart of Sheffield. The event was expertly hosted by the jovial Ian J France, and the guests were treated to the talents of vocalist Sylvester Gold after enjoying a delicious three course meal.

Hilton 2 — Mindreading during drinks reception! Photograph Courtesy of Alex Kentfield

Photographer Alex Kentfield was on hand to capture the vibrancy and energy of a truly spellbinding evening, and I must thank him for kindly allowing me to display his exceptional work in this blog article. The professionalism of Creswell Sound and Vision also ensured that the proceedings ran smoothly and the attendees were treated to an impressive variety of exciting activities and games!

Hilton Table — JNV treated the guests to a magical evening! Photograph courtesy of Alex Kentfield

Well done to everyone for working together for such a tremendous cause! I hope to have the opportunity to perform magic for you all again in the future.

Best wishes. David Fox.

Photographer Alex Kentfield’s website is: AJK Creative

For magic around the Sheffield area, please visit David’s website at: David Fox Magic.

John Hotowka – Wit and Wisdom

I was very fortunate to meet motivational speaker John Hotowka at Lisa and Jon’s wedding reception at Stoke Rochford Hall in June. John provides insightful and inspirational advice to many of the top companies throughout the UK. Drawing on his extensive business knowledge and skills, his much lauded ‘Achievement Thinking’ has permitted his clients to maximise potential and achieve their goals.

John also performed for many years as a highly successful close-up magician, so I was delighted when he offered me some excellent tips and advice. It is always a great privilege to meet a seasoned performer, and I am always extremely appreciative for any assistance as I strive to develop and improve my repertoire and delivery.

A man of many talents, John has authored a book entitled ‘Everything You Wanted To Know About Table-Hoping But Were Afraid To Ask’. This extensive and thoughtful publication is packed with tremendous advice on how to survive, develop and succeed in the challenging world of close-up magic. John shares useful anecdotes, routines and insider information which will really help all levels of magician. Indeed, he very kindly posted a copy of his book to me and I will forever be very thankful to him for this.

Vikki & Chris (175) — A close-up magician will face many challenges. John addresses these and offers invaluable advice.

To find out more about John and how he can assist you and your company, visit his website at: www.hotowka.co.uk or phone him now: 01274 685152.

Thanks again John, it was a real pleasure and I wish we had more time to chat. I hope to see you again in the future.

Big Frog Films – Exceptional Filming and Photography

big frog1 — David performing for Barry at the Magic Alley in Stratford Upon Avon – Big Frog are the masters at capturing the magic!

Do you require a top quality show-reel or trailer to promote your business? Are you wanting to have those magical wedding day moments captured for eternity? Or perhaps you are an artist who would like to take an innovative and exciting new approach when filming your next music video or drama? Big Frog Films will ensure that all of your unique conditions are fulfilled – and more.

Nigel and his team have a tremendous wealth of experience at their disposal to ensure that your brief will be carefully considered, processed and delivered to an outstanding level. They boast an impressive portfolio of satisfied clients which includes: Unison, Bromsgrove District Council and Pyrex. Sensitivity, attention to detail and a passion for producing exceptional film and images are the immaculate hallmarks of their service.

Big frog2 — Big Frog Films are highly experienced in working in all types of situations and environments.

More and more couples are choosing to have their wedding day revelries captured on film, and you can rest assured that if you select Big Frog, you are in safe hands. The team will ensure that all of those special moments are expertly captured for you to share and appreciate in years to come. The company have worked at many of the top wedding venues around the UK and have the uncanny ability to simply blend into the proceedings and go with the flow on the big day.

big frog3 — The sensitivity and friendliness of the team will ensure that you get the best shots and reactions for your business.

When it comes to creative and artistic filming, Big Frog are in a league of their own. The much acclaimed web series ‘Spooky Tales’ was filmed at various locations and the horror movie ‘Penny For The Guy’ has made a tremendous impact at film festivals. Midlands band The Cracked Actors excellent music video Tea is a testimony to the creative talents of Big Frog. The company proposed the concept for the production to the band, and also developed the structure, props and location for the filming itself.

big frog4 — Big Frog have a tremendous knack at utilising locations to their maximum thus creating stunning film and images.

I was extremely fortunate to work with Big Frog in Stratford Upon Avon recently. Nigel and Mark filmed me performing close-up magic around the town centre and at The Ettington Park Hotel. It is not the easiest of tasks to film a magician in full flow but they carried off the brief with aplomb. I was very impressed with their creative flair as well as their tremendous attention to detail throughout. Please click the link below to watch Big Frog’s fantastic handiwork from the day.

David Fox Magic in Stratford Upon Avon Showreel

For more details, visit Big Frog Films’ website at: www.bigfrogfilms.co.uk or phone Nigel on 01527 61483 for more details.

David Fox is a professional entertainer based in the UK. His website is: www.magician-midlands.co.uk. Telephone number: 07946 686 258.

Musee de la Magie – Illusion and Intrigue in the Heart of Paris…

If you are planning a trip to Paris soon, why not pay a visit to the Musée de la Magie? It truly is one of La Ville Lumière’s hidden gems, and I was very fortunate to pass many a magical moment there when I lived in Paris.

magie 1 — Located on Rue St Paul in the fashionable Marais, the museum boasts a magic school, theater and shop.

The French contribution to the art of prestidigitation has been considerable. Robert Houdin (1805 – 1871) is said to be the ‘father of modern magic’ and famously performed an impressive illusion to quell insurrection during French rule in Algeria. Indeed, it was most interesting to see this very effect resurrected on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ recently. The Hungarian-American magician Ehrich Weiss was so inspired by the French master that he took his name, becoming none other than the great Harry Houdini!

magie 2 — A veritable Alladin’s cave of magic and mystery. Step into an amazing world beneath the streets of old Paris…

Located at 11 Rue Saint Paul in the bohemian 4th arrondissement, the museum provides an enjoyable and unique experience. Even those with just a passing interest in magic will find much to amuse and enthrall. Visitors can either participate in a guided tour of the museum or peruse the extensive array of memorabilia at their leisure. A first class performance of legerdemain then follows in the theater – provided by one of the exceptional resident magicians. Both young (and not-so-young) spectators will be treated to classic illusions, card manipulation and sleight-of-hand delivered with inimitable wit, skill and Gaulish charm.

magie 3 — The red cross marks the area where the museum is located – just a stone’s throw from Notre Dame Cathedral on the right bank.

The museum also boasts a well stocked magic shop, which vends hand made effects and novelties, as well as a magic school for those inclined to study and learn more. I have personally always found the resident magicians and staff at the Musee de la Magie to be extremely courteous, enthusiastic and helpful whenever I have had the pleasure to pay a visit.

magie 4 — The 14th arrondissement is a vibrant area on the right bank.

Opening hours are: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 2pm to 7pm. However, the theater is normally accessible during local school and public holidays too. Visit the website for more details: www.museedelamagie.com. Current tariffs for entry are: adults – 10 Euros, and children – 8 Euros. It is well worth a visit if you happen to be in the area.

magie 5 — The stunning Cathedral of Notre Dame is close by. Why not pop into the museum next time you visit Paris?

Are you planning a special occasion in the future and require magic for your event? Visit David Fox’s website at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or phone/text him: 07946 686 258.

David Fox Magic

magician-midlands.co.uk – 07946 686 258

Tag: Close-up magic

Congratulations David and Tara! A Magical Evening at Rufford Mill…

Congratulations Hannah and Ed!

Congratulations Molly and Will

Congratulations Trevor and Sue!

Congratulations Annie and Dean!

Happy Birthday Rachel!

Magic at the Sheffield Hilton

John Hotowka – Wit and Wisdom

Big Frog Films – Exceptional Filming and Photography

Musee de la Magie – Illusion and Intrigue in the Heart of Paris…